Similar states of activity identified in supermassive and stellar mass black holes

The researchers Juan A. Fernandez-Ontiveros, of the Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica (INAF) in Rome and Teo Munoz-Darias, of the Instituto de Astrofisica de Canarias (IAC), have written an article in which they describe the different states of activity of a large sample of supermassive black holes in the centres of galaxies. They have classified them using the behaviour of their closest "relations", the stellar mass black holes in X-ray binaries. The article has just been published in the journal Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society (MNRAS).

Black holes range in mass from objects which have only a few times the mass of the sun up to those with thousands of millions of solar masses. To understand their activity cycles from a global perspective has been the object of research for decades. Those of stellar mass are found in binary systems together with a companion star from which they suck out the gas which they need to sustain their activity, while the supermassive variety are found in the centres of the majority of galaxies and they feed on the gas, dust, and stars which are fall into the gravitational well of the galactic nucleus.

Stellar mass black holes evolve rapidly. Their activity cycles usually last a few months or years, during which they pass through different states, or phases. These are characterized by changes in the properties of their accretion discs (where the hot gas accumulates before falling into the black hole), their winds, and the jets of material which they produce. There are two principal states, the first dominated by the accretion disc, and the second by the jet. The 'soft' state is noted by the thermal emission by the plasma of the disc, while the jet is observed in the 'hard' state, when the disc cools down, and the emission at radio wavelengths becomes very intense.

Because they are much more massive, the supermassive black holes evolve much more slowly than their stellar mass equivalents. So, to show the presence of states and transitory phenomena in these would imply observing them for millions of years, because the changes during a human lifetime would be too small to measure. In addition, the nuclei of galaxies are regions with dense populations of stars, and the absorption of light by hydrogen and dust masks and hides the radiation from the accretion disc around the central black hole.

In this study Fernandez-Ontiveros and Munoz-Darias have used a sample of 167 active galaxies to be able to identify the possible accretions states of supermassive black holes with good statistics. The emission from the accretion disc cannot be detected directly, but the gas in the central region absorbs and processes the radiation in the form of spectral lines. Using the lines of oxygen and neon, which are observed in the mid-infrared, it is possible to test the presence of the disc in these object. "The study demonstrates the presence of accretion states in supermassive black holes, with properties very similar to those we know from stellar mass black holes, where the systems in the 'soft' state harbour a bright disc, and those in the 'hard' state show intense radio emission while the disc is very weak", explains Juan A. Fernandez-Ontiveros, an INAF researcher who was trained at the IAC.

"This work opens a new window to understand the behaviour of material (gas) when it falls into black holes with a wide range of masses, and helps a more precise understanding of the activity cycles of the supermassive black holes which are in the centres of most galaxies", adds Teo Munoz-Darias, a researcher at the IAC.

The figure illustrates how the population of active Seyfert-1 galaxies is typically dominated by the emission of the accretion disk ('soft' state), while the population of LINERs is much less luminous and is dominated by jets ('hard' state), which emit intensely in radio waves. The Seyfert-2 galaxies, on the other hand, do not show a homogeneous behaviour and while a good part behave in a similar way to the Seyfert-1, a large group of them are located in intermediate states. The latter are also observed in stellar black holes for short periods of time.

###

Article: Juan A. Fernandez-Ontiveros & Teo Munoz-Darias, "X-ray binary accretion states in Active Galactic Nuclei? Sensing the accretion disc of supermassive black holes with mid-infrared nebular lines". Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, april 2021. DOI: https:/ / doi. org/ 10. 1093/ mnras/ stab1108

- Prepress: https:/ / arxiv. org/ abs/ 2104. 09538

This story has been published on: 2021-05-26. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Beijing (Gasgoo)- Li Auto, an innovator in Chinas new energy vehicle market, unveiled the latest version of the Li ONE, its only vehicle model for sale currently, with improvements in powertrain system, driving assistance system, intelligent cockpit, and user experience.

2021 Li ONE; photo credit: Li Auto

The price of the standard 2021 Li ONE stands at RMB 338,000 (about 52,762 dollars), with black, white, silver and grey body-color options while the Baby Blue, Tech Blue and Deep Green ones are priced at RMB 348,000 (about 54,323 dollars). The delivery will start from June 1.

With a mission to create homes on the move that bring happiness to the entire family, the updated vehicle features longer range, standardized advanced driving assistance system, and much more comfortable in-vehicle experience, which all help owners have happy and convenient family trip.

The 2021 Li ONE is 5,030 mm long and 1,785 high, 10 mm longer and 25 mm higher than the current model, which make the new version much more spacious. Besides, the 2021 Li ONE will not offer 7-seat version to give much more room for users.

All-new steering wheel of 2021 Li ONE; photo credit: Li ONE

Thanks to the optimization in the powertrain, the new version features a maximum NEDC range of 1,080 km, increasing by 200 km, and a maximum WLTC range of 890 km. Under the pure battery mode, the NEDC range can be up to 188 km. Whats more, the vehicle can serve as a power source, which can be used to charge other appliances or vehicles.

NOA navigation assistance system; photo credit: Li Auto

The 2021 new vehicle has full-stack self-developed advanced driving assistance system, standard with NOA navigation assistance function. In computing power, the 2021 Li ONE is equipped with two Journey 3 chips from local semiconductor company Horizon Robotics.

Since the very beginning of the models delivery, Li Auto has delivered a total of 51,575 vehicles by the end of April. In the first four months of this year, the average monthly delivery of the Li ONE surpassed 4,500 units. According to Shen Yanan, director and president of Li Auto, the automaker expects its monthly delivery to reach 10,000 units in September.

In an interview, Li Xiang, founder, chairman and CEO of the company, revealed that his company will invest more in R&D, thanks to the proceeds from the public offering. In 2021, its R&D investment will be up to RMB 3 billion, about 10% of the companys revenue. Its autonomous vehicle team staff will be doubled to 600 from 300 at present.

Unlike NIO and Xpeng, which sell sedan models, Li Auto will not launch any sedan product, Li Xiang said in the interview. The companys next-generation SUV will be equipped with NVIDIA Orin chips and will come standard with Lidars.
Qatar has vowed $500 million in support of Gaza reconstruction days after Hamas, the ruler of the Palestinian enclave and Israeli agreed a cease fire to end 11 days of new conflict.

Qatari Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman Al Thani Wednesday announced the aid, under the directive of Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

We will continue to support the brothers in Palestine in order to reach a just and lasting solution by establishing an independent state in accordance with the Arab Peace Initiative and the relevant international legitimacy references, the minister said on Twitter.

Hamas and Israel reached last week Thursday a ceasefire brokered by Egypt to end 11 days of open conflict between two sides.

Israel airpower and artillery pounded Gaza after Hamas launched missiles and rockets into Israel in reaction to Israeli security forces violence against Palestinian families who protested against their eviction from their homes in the East Jerusalem neighborhood of Sheikh Jarrah to make way for Jewish families.

The Israeli assault killed more than 250 Palestinians including 66 children, and wounded more than 1,900 people. The raids drew international outcry after they also targeted international media offices.

Hamas rockets claimed the lives of 13 people in Israel including one child and teenager, an Israeli soldier, one Indian national and two Thai workers, Times of Israel reports.

The announcement of the Qatari grant comes a few days after Sheikh Tamim received Hamas chief leader, Ismail Haniyeh to discuss Gaza reconstruction after the hostilities.

Qatars promise followed that of Egypt, $500 million, made by President Abdelfattah al-Sisi for the reconstruction of the Palestinian territory.

Written by: Jaber Ali on May 27, 2021. on May 28, 2021.
RICHMOND  Virginia Finance Secretary Aubrey Layne will leave his post in the governors Cabinet for a high-ranking job at the one of the nations largest health care systems, Sentara Healthcare.

Laynes departure, which will be official July 1, is the first high-profile exit as Gov. Ralph Northams administration winds to a close. Virginia governors are barred from serving consecutive terms; Northam will leave office in January.

Layne will join Sentara Healthcare as a senior vice president and chief of staff. Sentara is one of the states largest employers and operates more than a dozen hospitals and assisted living facilities.

Under state law, Layne will not be allowed to lobby on behalf of Sentara Healthcare, but the health care system said in a statement that Layne would oversee its legislative affairs team.

The Northam administration did not immediately announce Laynes replacement. Administration spokeswoman Alena Yarmosky said that more information on his replacement will be shared in the next few weeks.

Layne joined the Northam administration as finance secretary in 2018. Before that, he served as transportation secretary under Gov. Terry McAuliffe, from 2014 to 2018. McAuliffe is running for governor again.
RICHMOND  Washington-area TV station ABC7-WJLA apologized for an anti-Muslim question one of its anchors addressed to a candidate during a televised debate Tuesday.

During an important, relevant exchange related to campaign finance during the debate, our anchor, Dave Lucas, asked an inappropriate and disrespectful question to Delegate Sam Rasoul, Bill Fanshawe, senior vice president at Sinclair Broadcast Group, emailed to the Council on American-Islamic Relations, a civil rights organization.

We have reached out directly to Delegate Rasouls campaign and expressed our sincere apology for this question and for the impact of these words. Rasoul is Muslim.

Lucas asked Rasoul the question during a debate among the six Democratic candidates in the June 8 primary for lieutenant governor, citing a Washington Post story that reported Rasouls fundraising relied on out-of-state donors with ties to Muslim advocacy groups.

Can you assure Virginians, if youre elected, youll represent all of them regardless of faith or beliefs? Lucas asked.
FALLS CHURCH  If hes not airborne, theres a good chance you will find 97-year-old John Billings at his home airport in Luray.

A recent heart attack prevents him, for now, from piloting solo, but he still routinely flies his Cessna four-seater when a co-pilot can join him. A lifetime of flying, going back to his days as a 21-year-old bomber pilot in Italy and then flying secret missions with the Office of Strategic Services, the forerunner to the CIA, is recounted in Special Duties Pilot, an autobiography scheduled for release next month by Pen and Sword Books.

It was just something that somehow just got burnt into me as a little child, he said of his love of flying. On his third birthday his dad took him for an airplane ride at a local airfield in Hingham, Massachusetts. In reality it only lasted maybe 15 or 20 minutes, but to a 3-year-old, it felt like the whole afternoon and it burned a hole in me, and that was it.

So in June 1942, when Billings enlisted in the Army as an 18-year-old, he asked if he could enroll in aviation training. Not only did he have an active interest, he also readily admitted that he wanted to avoid an infantry unit; hed heard what infantry combat was like and didnt think he had the stomach for it.
Bills, a hedge fund manager, in 2018 began offering money to candidates in Virginia who decline to accept campaign money from Dominion, saying he wants the legislature to allow more competition for clean energy and grant regulators at the State Corporation Commission stronger regulatory oversight over the utility.

The mail piece that attacks Montgomery said her campaign is being backed by the same dark money billionaire donors who supported Republican [Sen.] Amanda Chase, the right-wing extremist...

Bills has said he is not a billionaire. And while dark money contributions are designed to conceal the source of campaign money, all the donations from Bills to his Clean Virginia political action committee  and that PACs contributions to candidates  are disclosed in public reports to the Virginia Department of Elections.

Clean Virginia donated to Chase, R-Chesterfield, but in 2020 announced, after criticism over the donations, that the PAC would no longer fund her because of her divisive and dangerous response to the nationwide calls for racial justice.

Kate Sarna, a spokeswoman for the House Democratic Caucus, did not respond to a voicemail, text and email Wednesday seeking comment.
The city council has a good plan. The narrower lanes will slow traffic.

Narrower vehicle lanes will make it too difficult for larger vehicles.

A separate pedestrian solution should be constructed away from any vehicular traffic.

Widening the sidewalk could work best if a barrier is put up between the sidewalk and vehicular traffic.

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Kerala: State to enforce 52-day trawling ban

May 27,2021 | Source: The Hindu

The State government has decided to impose a 52-day ban on trawling operations, beginning midnight of June 9 and ending on July 31 midnight. The decision was taken at a meeting of the Fisheries Minister Saji Cheriyan with the stakeholders in the sector on Wednesday. The State government had, for the first time extended the ban from 45 days, in force since 1994, to 52 days last year in view of the demand raised by traditional fishers. The Swathanthra Matsya Thozhilali Federation (SMTF) and Matsya Thozhilali Aikya Vedi had favoured longer periods of ban on trawling operations during the monsoon as a measure to conserve marine fish resources. Jackson Pollayil said after the meeting that the SMTF was in favour of a longer period of ban on monsoon operations though the Minister felt that the continuing lockdown and restrictions on fishing activities due to the pandemic spread as well as loss of fishing days had to be considered when the trawling ban was imposed. The Minister is learnt to have said that a longer period of trawling ban may be considered in the future as a step to conserving resources.



Boat operators demand



The All Kerala Fishing Boat Operators have, however, said that the 52-day ban would come into effect in addition to the days that had been lost due to the pandemic spread. In a recent letter to the Chief Minister, Joseph Xavier Kalapurackal of the Boat Owners Association said that around 3,000 mechanised boats operated off the coast of Kerala and that another 800 boats from neighbouring States were engaged in fishing in Kerala waters. However, the restrictions being brought on fishing activities related only to the boats setting out from the Kerala coast whereas fishing boats from other States were engaged in fishing freely. The weather warnings and other restrictions were enforced only on the Kerala boats whereas boats from other states operated freely. The boat operators also said that the cost of fuel had gone up substantially making fishing expeditions economically unviable and appealed to the State government to take appropriate steps to provide solace to the fishing sector, which employed about 10 lakh people directly and indirectly. All boats from other States have been ordered to leave Kerala shore before June 9. All diesel pumps will be closed along the shore while the pumps operated by Matsyafed will supply the fuel to traditional boats.

 2021, THG PUBLISHING PVT LTD.
Odisha: Cyclone Yaas makes landfall in Balasore, triggers heavy damage

by Shiv Sahay Singh, Satyasundar Barik

May 27,2021 | Source: The Hindu

The Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Yaas that made landfall south of Balasore in Odisha on Wednesday tore into the bordering regions of West Bengal and Odisha and weakened into a cyclonic storm, leaving behind a trail of destruction in its wake on the eastern coast. Five persons were killed  four in Odisha and one in West Bengal. In pictures | Cyclone Yaas uproots life West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said one crore people had been affected and about 15 lakh people had been evacuated and housed in shelters. National Disaster Response Force and Army personnel joined the rescue and relief operations. In Odisha, 128 villages in Balasore and Bhadrak districts were inundated following seawater ingression. The cyclone caused extensive damage to power transmission lines in coastal areas. Hundreds of thatched houses were ravaged. Cyclone Yaas updates | May 26, 2021 Yaas battered the tree cover while passing through Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts. Thousands of big trees were uprooted. According to the India Meteorological Department, the storm crossed the north Odisha coast about 20 km south of Balasore between 10.30 a.m. and 11.30 a.m. with estimated wind speeds of 130-140 kmph. The cyclone hit the coast with far less intensity than what was predicted. By afternoon, the cyclonic storm moved away from Balasore and entered Mayurbhanj district, triggering heavy rain. The system is expected to enter Jharkhand as a cyclone.



6.5 lakh evacuated



In Odisha, coastal districts of Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapara and Jagatsinghpur and northern Mayurbhanj district were affected. The State had already evacuated about 6.5 lakh people, including 1.52 lakh in Balasore, 1.20 lakh in Bhadrak and 1 lakh in Mayurbhanj district. Also read | Bay of Bengal, fomenting Yaas, hotter than usual Special Relief Commissioner Pradeep Kumar Jena said the extent of damage was being assessed. Collectors of Balasore and Keonjhar had confirmed two deaths, he said. As predicted by the IMD, tidal surge was observed above four metres in Balasore and Bhadrak. Inundation was reported in the Dhamra area of Bhadrak district and Bahanaga, Remuna, Baliapal and Balasore town of Balasore district. People had cut roads at several places to discharge water. The embankments would be repaired soon, said Mr. Jena.



CMs directive



Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik announced seven days of relief for all families of 128 marooned villages and directed restoration of all major roads and 80% restoration of electricity supply in affected districts in 24 hours. Also read | Cyclone Yaas turns Kolkata weather pleasant, but mood remains sombre According to Mr. Jena, 295 roads out of 305 belonging to the Public Works Department and 200 out of 300 roads of the Rural Development department were restored by evening. The Similipal Biosphere in Mayurbhanj received 146 mm of rain. According to the IMD, heavy to very heavy rainfall has been predicted at a few places over Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapada, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar and Dhenkanal, with isolated extremely heavy fall very likely to occur over the districts of Jajpur, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar and Dhenkanal on Thursday.



Houses damaged



West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said three lakh houses had been damaged due to the cyclonic storrm. Large parts of Digha, Tajpur and Haldia town in Purba Medinipur district (district bordering Odisha) along with several areas in the Sunderbans were inundated. Experts and the Chief Minister said the combined effects of the full moon tide and the cyclone led to breaching of embankments in South 24 Parganas and Purba Medinipur districts. Ms. Banerjee said there were reports of breach of embankments at 134 places in the State. Also read | 1 crore people hit due to Cyclone Yaas, 15 lakh evacuated: Mamata There has been extensive damage to agriculture due to ingress of saline water. Allied sectors such as fisheries, horticulture have suffered damage, but we will be able to estimate the complete situation in 72 hours, she said, keeping a watch on the cyclone from the administration headquarters Nabanna for two days in a row. Several villages in the coastal areas of West Bengals South 24 Parganas district, including Namkhana, Kakdwip, Frasergunj, Dhankhali, Sandeshkhali lay submerged. At Sagar Island, seawater reached the Kapil Muni temple, a few hundred metres away from the coast. The rural areas of Purba Medinipur district in Nandigram and Contai were waterlogged. In Howrah, several villages were submerged in the Amta and Shyampur areas. After the cyclone, people were seen wading through deep water carrying children and cattle to safer places.



Power supply



While the damage was less and Kolkata was largely spared by the cyclone impact on this occasion, roofs of resorts were blown off, trees were uprooted, and massive waves swept over the coastal areas. Meanwhile, the State government has advised power distribution companies to suspend supply in waterlogged areas. One death was reported in Purba Medinipur due to accidental drowning, when a villager, rescued by the administration, went fishing during the cyclone. Ms. Banerjee thanked the people for cooperating with one of the biggest evacuations carried out in a span of a few days. She also urged people residing in areas close to the river to remain alert during high tide. According to the State government, people were housed at 4,000 flood centres. The IMD had predicted heavy rainfall at isolated places over West Midnapore, Jhargram, Bankura, Purulia, East Medinipur and West Burdwan districts along with squally winds of 70-80 kmph gusting to 90 kmph over Jhargram, West Midnapore, Bankura, Purulia and West Burdwan districts. During the day, along with the State administration, more than 35 teams of the National Disaster Response Force helped in rescuing people stranded in waterlogged areas of Purba Medinipur and South 24 Parganas. Seventeen columns of the Army, deployed in 10 districts of the State, also lent a hand in rescue work.

 2021, THG PUBLISHING PVT LTD.
Cyber

Questions loom over who will pay for the cyber EO mandates

Tucked inside President Joe Biden's cybersecurity executive order is a plan to modernize and streamline federal procurement policy, which experts said lacked critical funding and resources to adequately implement within its ambitious timeframe.

The order in part seeks to overhaul a current patchwork of regulations and guidelines for the private sector and commercial marketplace around federal contractor cybersecurity requirements. This plan will require agencies and contractors to address numerous issues at once under short timeframes, from developing standards for software supply chain security to removing barriers to sharing threat information.

While private sector leaders expressed enthusiasm for improving cybersecurity requirements governmentwide as outlined in the order, they said the new policies may also yield duplicative, burdensome requirements and potential pitfalls in areas like information-sharing.

Megan Petersen, senior director and counsel at Information Technology Industry Council, said federal agencies will "almost certainly" need additional appropriations in order to implement a new multi-sector cybersecurity standard.

"On the whole, federal agencies have woefully underinvested in modern and secure technologies  instead relying on legacy systems that may be incapable of complying with cybersecurity best practices," Petersen said. "Many agencies have also neglected developing mature data and access management policies and procedures, or they exist largely on paper."

The cybersecurity policy goals outlined within the order will also require "significant investments in modern, commercial technologies and the adoption of commercial best practices across government agencies," Petersen added.

The White House released discretionary budget requests for fiscal 2022 in April which featured a $750 million reserve for federal IT enhancements. However, the administration has not provided additional details on how those funds would be spent.

But even with that reserve, the government remains unequipped in its mission to overhaul cybersecurity and procurement policy across the board, according to Matthew Cornelius, executive director of the Alliance for Digital Innovation and a former senior advisor for technology and cybersecurity policy at the Office of Management and Budget.

"Given the timing of the cybersecurity executive order, it seems unreasonable to expect that the forthcoming President's Budget will have any resources directly tied to agency implementation," he said, describing the issue as an "unfortunate and unforced error."

"Even if there is some $750 million for the cybersecurity 'reserve fund' mentioned in the previously released 'skinny budget,' that money is not going to help the entire executive branch accomplish the several dozen objectives outlined in the executive order," he added. "That said, there is plenty of support in Congress for providing robust, necessary cybersecurity funding."

Should Congress choose to appropriate additional funding to support the cybersecurity order, the government would still be forced to grapple with tight deadlines amid a sea change for daily operations in most agencies.

In one example, the order outlines a 60-day deadline for the Office of Management and Budget to review the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement contract requirements, then provide recommendations for requirements and language in contracts with IT and OT service providers in consultation with agency leaders. In another, the Secretary of Commerce has just 30 days to solicit input from the government and private sector to develop criteria which can be used to assess software security and evaluate various security practices.

Some experts said coordination between sectors will effectively determine whether the Biden administration can successfully reform government cybersecurity practices in such short notice, at a time when both the federal government and industries are increasingly becoming the target of major cyberattacks.

"This executive order lays out a lot of different rules and responsibilities for government agencies in very short time frames, so in order to be successful, we have to find a way to be more successful than we are today," said Alan Chvotkin, partner at Nicholas Liu LLP and former executive vice president and counsel of the Professional Services Council (PSC). "It will start with meaningful outreach to the private sector, government contractors and the commercial marketplace to see what kind of short-term and longer-term solutions we can find."

David Wennergren, CEO of the American Council for Technology and Industry Advisory Council (ACT-IAC), said that while industry is "eager" to work with the government to develop consistent cybersecurity approaches which leverage best practices from across the private sector, he noted "collaborating with industry will be crucial to the success of this work."

Wennergren added: "Changes in technology, to include moving to the cloud, IT modernization, operating in a virtual world, mobile solutions and the rapid adoption of new technologies all require that government collaborate with industry to understand best practices and new approaches, like zero trust."

Industry leaders said they were excited about the prospect of collaborating between sectors to establish new rules and regulatory structures. The National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) has already formed an internal task force to respond to the executive order and provide feedback throughout the implementation process.

"Coordination between public and private actors and coordination across the public sector will be equally important to achieving the executive order's goal of increasing cyber fortifications," said Corbin Evans, principal director for strategic programs at NDIA. "This order has a lot of aspirational goals that are going to require a lot of work by the regulators to successfully implement."

The Office of Management and Budget declined to provide comment on the question of additional funding to support the implementation of the executive order.

This article first appeared on FCW, a Defense Systems sibling publication.
Despite the pandemic, mid-valley residents seem determined to make sure that Memorial Day receives observances worthy of its history and meaning.

Monday is the day for 2021, marking the 153rd year that Americans have honored those who fell in battle.

Here is a look at the live, virtual and preparatory events that local veterans officials have in store for us through the weekend.

Linn County Veterans Memorial

The event at Timber Linn Park begins Monday at 11 a.m. Maj. Gen. Michael Stencil, adjutant general of Oregon, is the keynote speaker, and Linn County Commissioner and Navy veteran Will Tucker is the master of ceremonies.

Commissioner John Lindsey (1966-2011) will be recognized in a brief "in memoriam," and his immediate family is attending.

The event also will include the national anthem, a rifle salute, the playing of taps and a veteran flyover by Norm Younger of Shedd.

Wreaths will be placed on behalf of Gold Star Mothers and Gold Star Families, POW/MIAs, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, American Legion Post 10 & Auxiliary, and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 584.
Egypt and Kenya Wednesday signed a defense cooperation agreement aiming at deepening partnership in matters of mutual benefit, the eastern African country said, Anadolu news agency reports.

During the bilateral defense talks, the parties signed a Technical Agreement on Defense Cooperation aimed at deepening partnership in matters of mutual benefit, Kenyas Defense Ministry said without giving further details.

Monica Juma, Kenyas Defense Minister and Egyptian Chief of Staff Lt. Gen Mohamed Farid Hegazy signed the agreement.

Egypt has in recent years multiplied similar agreements with several countries in the region, located in or around the Nile Basin.

In March, Egypt and Sudan signed an agreement promising mutual benefits in matters concerning national security and military cooperation. Egypt also signed similar agreements with Burundi and Uganda in April, Anadolu reports.
Still, retailers  particularly mall-based stores and other specialty stores that were struggling even before the pandemic  face plenty of challenges to keep customers coming back. They face stepped up competition online and from discounters that thrived in the last year. Experts also say that post-pandemic shoppers will be even more demanding: After being forced to stay close to home, theyre looking for better and convenient services and experiences.

Many retailers like Macy's are still recovering from the pandemic, which forced them to temporarily close early last year, driving more traffic to big box stores that were allowed to stay open. And overall store traffic, while rebounding, is still not back to where it was two years ago.

Customer counts at overall stores surged 43.2% for the week starting May 10 compared to the year-ago period, but that number was still down 5.6% for that same period in 2019, says mobile-device location data from foot-traffic analytics firm Placer.ai. In clothing, customer counts soared more than two-fold for the same timeframe, but it was down 11.2% on a two-year basis. For big-box stores like Target, customer counts were up 5.3% for the same period but down 4.9% on a two-year basis.
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Mexico Telecom Partners (MTP), which is among the largest private tower companies in Mexico, may be up for sale.

According to the Bloomberg news service, owners Digital Colony, which focuses on identifying and capitalizing on differentiated investment opportunities within digital infrastructure, and Macquarie Mexico Infrastructure Fund, an affiliate of Macquarie Group Ltd, a global financial services group operating in 32 markets, are said to be exploring the sale of MTP.

Citing people with knowledge of the matter, Bloomberg says that the two firms are working with an adviser to consider options for MTP. It also reports that there has been unsolicited interest from potential suitors.

If this actually happens, its going to be a far from modest deal. MTP currently works with all major carriers in Mexico and has a portfolio that is geographically dispersed across the country. MTP has offices in Boca Raton, Florida and Mexico City. It also has a portfolio of more than 3,000 towers. According to some estimates therefore, the company could be worth more than $1 billion.

This could be an important development for another reason. While many of our recent reports have involved mobile operators selling off their passive infrastructure to towercos in leaseback deals, its important to note that the tower industry itself has been consolidating  notably in Latin America.

For example, we reported in early May that American Tower had purchased the towers of Telxius Torres (a subsidiary of Telefonica / Vivo) in Brazil, part of a massive deal through which Telefonica signed an agreement with American Tower in mid-January for the sale of the tower divisions in Europe and Latin America. Thus there may be no shortage of interest in MTP  if it really is up for sale.
Sao Tome and Principes incumbent provider Companhia Santomense de Telecomunicacoes (CST) has disclosed that it is awaiting clearance from the countrys regulator to deploy 4G services.

According to TeleGeography, CST has confirmed that it is ready to deploy LTE services across the country, and that it submitted a request to launch a 4G trial network on 1st March 2021. However, regulator AGER (Autoridade Geral de Regulacao) has not yet responded.

In a statement, CST asked for AGERs approval, saying all parties should focus on the implementation of 4G as soon as possible and not continue to delay it for reasons of procedural or bureaucratic forum.
WhatsApp has filed a lawsuit against the government of India over new legislation that would force the Facebook-owned messaging app to infringe user privacy protections.

Reuters reports that the case petitions the Delhi High Court to acknowledge that one of Indias new IT rules violates the privacy rights enshrined in Indias constitution. The law in question obliges social media companies to provide authorities with the identity of the first originator of information upon request.

WhatsApp is seeking to block these regulations from coming into effect. The move marks the latest development in an ongoing battle between the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and major international tech giants such as Facebook, Google parent firm Alphabet, and Twitter.

Last month, Modis government ordered Twitter to remove posts criticizing its response to the Covid-19 pandemic as the death toll in India skyrocketed. Modi came under fire for holding campaign rallies attended by thousands of people, while his government was lambasted for its perceived complacency and poor preparation for the disaster.

This week, police visited Twitters offices, escalating already-inflamed tensions. The platform had flagged content posted by a government spokesperson as containing manipulated media which it described as forged content.

The new law focuses solely on WhatsApp, which has half a billion users in India. WhatsApp claims that it cannot unilaterally comply with the order to identify users who are consciously spreading misinformation because its messages are encrypted end-to-end; to identify the sender of a flagged message, it would also have to remove this encryption for the recipient.

A statement from WhatsApp read: "Requiring messaging apps to 'trace' chats is the equivalent of asking us to keep a fingerprint of every single message sent on WhatsApp, which would break end-to-end encryption and fundamentally undermines people's right to privacy."

However, the Indian government refuted this argument, claiming that it was not asking WhatsApp to break its encryption but to find a way to track the sources of disinformation. WhatsApp has confirmed that it will continue working with the government on the matter, with operations continuing as usual.

User privacy is an ongoing issue for WhatsApp in India, with many users switching to rival apps such as Signal and Telegram earlier this year after WhatsApp announced a new privacy policy allowing it to share certain information with Facebook and its other subsidiaries.

While Signal and Telegram have seen their Indian user bases explode, neither has approached WhatsApps commanding install base. The apps are known for offering encryption that prevents message content being intercepted and viewed by third parties. Neither has commented on Indias new legislation on traceability.
Telkom Kenyas mobile money platform T-Kash has now been integrated as a payment option of Kenyas government digital services platform, eCitizen.

T-Kash customers will now be able to pay for both National and County government services that are found on the portal, said a statement from the integrated telecommunications provider in Kenya.

Financial services, partnerships, and digitisation form part of Telkoms focus areas. In this strategic direction, Telkom seeks to enrich its financial services offering in response to the evolving digital lifestyle of the consumer, where convenience and simplicity are paramount, it said.

In order to pay using T-kash when transacting on eCitizen, users simply have to choose it at the checkout stage and follow on-screen prompts and instructions to complete making the payment.

T-kash customers will be able to make digital payments for services offered by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA); Directorate of Criminal Investigations, Business Registration Service, and Immigration Services. The list also includes bundled services under the Civil Registration Department, Office of the Attorney General, Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), National Construction Authority, Kenya Film Commission, National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA) and the Ministries of Land and Mining.

Telkom Kenya CEO, Mugo Kibati said this move speaks to one of the firms commitments to better position its infrastructure asset base and services, to drive digital transformation within the Consumer, SME, Corporate and Public sectors, to enable them to become smart entities.

Recently, the company, through its digital services platform, T-kash, announced its partnership with the Ministry of ICTs National Youth Council of Kenya (NYCK), to co-create FURSA, an e-wallet that will open up a portfolio of financial opportunities to the youth in Kenya and more so at the grassroots levels.
They have Luis Manuel Otero Alcantara locked up in a hospital room, not in a cell in Villa Marista, but it is State Security that ended up disclosing his situation. Not the Noticiero Nacional de Television newscast, not Mesa Redonda (Round Table), not Humberto Lopez, but rather a State Security profile on social media, one "Guerrero Cubano", (Cuban Warrior) and some other similar avatars.

These spokesmen are superseding the regime's usual spokespeople, who transmit propaganda instead of information. In contrast, State Security does not seem interested in shaping opinion or imposing it, but rather in public intimidation. It is less concerned with conveying an official truth than with displaying power.

The propaganda of the National Television Newscast, however pedestrian, aspires to a certain verisimilitude. But when it is State Security minions who present the news reports, the truth, rather than silenced or replaced, is "tortured." That is, any pretense of verisimilitude is dispensed with.

Therefore, there is no need to blame State Security for a lack of professionalism for all these inconsistencies between one medical report and another, between one video and another. On the contrary, all this "sloppiness" is intentional. When, several weeks after confining him in a hospital, they exhibit an ailing Otero Alcantara and claim that he receives the finest care, they do so so that we notice the tremendous incongruity between the images and words, this divide leads us to suspect something terrible, and we are scared. When these henchmen take charge of information, they extend torture to the audience.

The relevance of the Otero Alcantara case can be appreciated by the regimes exclusion of its usual spokesmen, and the case being placed in the hands of State Security. It is like when, in a fight between gangs, the leader has his minions step aside and takes care of something himself. To this must be added their decision to condemn Luis Manuel Otero Alcantara to a state of limbo.

We know, from examples as disparate as Dante's first circle of Hell, and the prison at the Guantanamo Naval Base, that those destined for limbos are beings difficult to fit in a certain theology or legality. The fact that, in this case, the limbo consists of a hospital room, and there are medical personnel willing to be complicit in this, reveals how macabre the Cuban health system is.

We do not know what kind of treatment Luis Manuel Otero Alcantara may be receiving at the Calixto Garcia University Hospital.

The authorities that call him a patient are the same ones that pass off vaccine candidates as Covid-19 vaccines, and calls those who are nothing more than subjects of an ongoing experiment (good or bad) "immunized". The Cuban health system treats Otero Alcantara, who was, effectively, kidnapped, just as it does a population of hostages. Whether through repression, or propaganda, it does not care.

It is significant that the facility chosen by State Security to keep Luis Manuel Otero Alcantara in limbo is a teaching hospital. A detail like this allows one to get an idea of the training of future specialists, whom they habituate to the existence of cases in which the treatment depends not on the clinic, but rather political instructions.

The Otero Alcantara case has turned a Havana hospital into a torture center, and State Security into an information agency.
Moscow, ID (83843)

Today

Light rain early. A mix of sun and clouds in the afternoon. High 73F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy early with increasing clouds overnight. Low 59F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph.
A unanimous Supreme Court ruled Monday that thousands of people living in the U.S. for humanitarian reasons are ineligible to apply to become permanent residents.
MONTGOMERY  A Dale County man was sentenced Thursday to serve 25 years in prison for multiple child sex crimes, according to Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall.

Jason Park, 41, of Newton, was sentenced to 25 years for 13 counts of production of child pornography and 20 years for four counts of sexual abuse of a child less than 12 years of age.

The prison sentences will run concurrently, and Park is to serve the entire 25 years in prison. Due to the nature of his crimes, he will not be eligible for early release or parole.

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Park pleaded guilty on April 6, after a jury had been selected and as opening statements were set to begin in his trial in Dale County Circuit Court.

According to previous Eagle reports, Park was free on a $316,000 bond after his arrests in 2019 on numerous sex crimes, including possession of pornography, sexual assault and bestiality, when he was arrested again in February 2020. At that time, previous complaints against him included seized videos that contained multiple victims, the youngest being a toddler and the oldest being a 13-year-old boy. Video titles described in the complaint contained descriptions of acts of sexual assault against children, including rape and incest.
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Pretty soon, sights were being set on expansion in the Dothan market, but McDonough said they needed to have a plan, so a $200 investment in a NxLevel course seemed like a good way to get started.

NxLevel is a multi-session course designed for small business people who want to start or grow a business and need the skills to test the feasibility of their business concept. Participants develop business plans and cover various business topics.

Harry Grier was our instructor, and when we got to the week where we had to forecast our financials, the forecast told us we were headed toward bankruptcy. The numbers told us that, McDonough said. We knew we were in trouble and we brought it to the attention of the SBDC staff. They started working with us and we started retooling the company.

One of the solutions was to pay off debt quickly. Again, a military retirement helped the partners push all their resources into the company.

You get out of it (the SBDC) what you put into it. If you dont engage them, they cant help you, he said. But it is a very leverageable asset. I dont think people know how to use their local SBDC. Its that planner, mentor, and someone to bounce ideas off of.
It's pretty dang clear we dont have the votes, Sen. T.J. Shope of Coolidge, a Republican who backs the plan, said Wednesday morning. I dont know at what point we pull the plug."

Another Republican, Sen. Paul Boyer of Glendale, said he was concerned about the huge tax cut and several other provisions in the plan.

It's really a long-term concern for the state of Arizona, Boyer said on KJZZ radio Wednesday morning. What does that do if and when we have an economic crisis? Are we prepared for it, especially if we're cutting a third of our income to our state.

Boyer told The Associated Press in a text message early Wednesday afternoon that he had just left negotiations with the governors office on city funding, a main point of contention for some lawmakers. He said no deal was in place. Separately, GOP Sen. Michelle Ugenti-Rita has said she thinks the budget spends too much money,

A group that represents cities and towns is pushing for changes to address what it says will be a $280 million-a-year hit to tax revenue its members get as a share of the state income tax. Several Republicans say they cant back the plan unless those concerns are addressed. The League of Arizona Cities and Towns is requesting an increase in the 15% share of income tax cities now receive.
The United States announced additional sanctions against Burmas military regime. Since the military coup that deposed the democratically elected government in February, the military regime has responded violently to pro-democracy protests, killing over 800 people, including children, and detaining thousands.

On May 17, the United States designated one entity and 16 individuals connected to the regime. The entity is the State Administrative Council, the body the military regime created to support its unlawful coup. Thirteen of the individuals are key members of the military regime and three are adult children of previously designated military officials. As a result of the designations, all property and interests in property they may have in the United States are blocked. In addition, unless authorized by an exemption, all transactions by U.S. persons within the United States that involve any property of those designated are prohibited.

In concurrent actions, the United Kingdom and Canada also imposed their own sanctions in relation to the on-going coup in Burma.

In a statement, Secretary of State Antony Blinken wrote, As President Biden has stated, the United States will continue to promote accountability for those responsible for the coup. Our actions today underscore our resolve and that of our partners to apply political and financial pressure on the regime as long as it fails to stop violence and take meaningful action to respect the will of the people.

Secretary Blinken noted that the United States and its partners in the G7 welcome the five-point consensus plan concerning Burma that was developed by the ASEAN Leaders Meeting in late April. That plan called for immediate cessation of violence; dialogue among all parties; a special envoy to facilitate mediation; humanitarian assistance by ASEAN, and a visit of the special envoy and delegation to meet all parties concerned. Mr. Blinken urged Burmas military regime to immediately and unconditionally cooperate with ASEAN and the UN to implement this plan.

Unfortunately, Secretary of State Blinken said, the military regime has thus far refused to cooperate in a constructive manner and has made no attempt to restore Burma on the path to democracy, while continuing its brutal repression and violence against its people.

The United States encourages all countries to consider imposing measures against the military regime to promote accountability for the coup and human rights abuses, and to prevent further violence.
While vaccine manufactures may be shielded from liability, your institution is not protected, and neither are you, Atkins said. You are hereby on notice that if you illegally or irresponsibly mandate EUA medical therapies on students such as experimental Covid vaccine candidates, we have no choice but to take legal action, and you may be personally liable for the resulting harm.

Mask guidelines have been another topic of contention.

During board comment, Trustee Candace Wines requested a formal discussion at the next meeting to review the boards options. She also suggested writing a letter to Gov. Steve Sisolak to request local control of mask mandates in schools.

Wines also asked for legal counsel to research the consequences should the school district decide to issue its own policies apart from the state.

I would like to know if the state can legally remove funding from our district since the Nevada Constitution requires that the state provide education, Wines said. I would like to have this on the agenda so we, the board as a whole, can discuss how we can move forward.

Trustees Robert Leonhardt and Luc Gerber agreed that the board needed to discuss issues brought forth by parents and students Tuesday evening.
Preliminary findings will be released within two weeks, Weiss said, and findings and a final report could take up to two years.

Draken spokeswoman Christina Childs said the company, based in Lakeland, Florida, was cooperating with federal, state and local authorities including the NTSB.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the people and families affected by this event, the company said a statement.

Draken provides tactical aircraft, adversarial support, electronic attack or customized rotary wing training, and pilots including former U.S. military personnel, for combat training at Nellis and other sites.

We train the next generation of fighter pilots which is a crucial aspect of our national security, Childs said in an email.

She did not immediately respond to messages about Hamilton's military history.

In August 2016, not far from Nellis, a Draken pilot with more than two decades of experience received minor injuries when he ejected before the Douglas A-4K Skyhawk he was flying crashed in the desert near the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

Investigators later said it appeared that debris entered the engine of the Vietnam War-era attack jet, causing a loss of power.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified the UK variant as the most common strain of covid-19 circulating in the United States, one of a number of regionalised variants that have spread globally.

As the coronavirus spreads from person to person it can undergo modifications which alter the genetic make-up, and can potentially make it more transmissible, harder to detect and more deadly. The UK variant, known as B.1.1.7, is thought to spread more easily, be more deadly than other strains and has now spread across the world.

In April CDC Director Dr Rachelle Walensky described the UK variant as now the most common lineage circulating in the United States.

She added: Testing remains an important strategy to rapidly identify and isolate infectious individuals, including those with variants of concern.

Why can covid-19 variants be more dangerous?

Unfortunately the B.1.1.7 variant is one of many to have been recorded in the US, and one of a number to have made a significant in-road into the population. Viruses are constantly mutating and changing as the pass between hosts and the new variations often die out fairly quickly.

However sometimes the virus changes in a way that makes it more transmissible and that strain is able to become more prolific than the original strain. Other mutations may make the virus more deadly or reduce the effectiveness of pharmaceuticals like vaccines.

The CDC explains: If you think about a virus like a tree growing and branching out; each branch on the tree is slightly different than the others. By comparing the branches, scientists can label them according to the differences. These small differences, or variants, have been studied and identified since the beginning of the pandemic.

What other covid-19 variants are there in the US?

The CDC is constantly tracking and testing the various strains of coronavirus in the US and studies how they are progressing. Although the latest data shows that the most common strain is B.1.1.7, which was first detected in the US in December 2020, there are a number of other prominent variants.

These four are also classified as variants of concern by the CDC:
BEIJING -- President Xi Jinping has been calling for strengthened cooperation in the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic as well as concerted efforts to build a global community of health for all.

The following are some highlights of his recent remarks in this regard.

May 26, 2021

During a phone conversation with Montenegrin President Milo Djukanovic, Xi said that since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the two countries have been supporting each other, and carrying out sound cooperation in such fields as pandemic prevention and control as well as production resumption.

China is willing to continue to provide as much assistance as its capacity allows for Montenegro's fight against the pandemic, and promote the building of a global community of health for all, Xi said.

In a telephone conversation with Nepali President Bidhya Devi Bhandari, Xi said that China will continue providing as much support as possible for Nepal's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, adding that he believes the Nepali people will surely win the final victory over the virus.

May 24, 2021

In a telephone conversation with Vietnamese President Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Xi said the two sides should carry on the good tradition of unity and mutual support, join hands to effectively handle and control the COVID-19 pandemic, and substantively protect the people's lives and health.

China, he said, stands ready to continue to provide as much assistance as its capacity allows for Vietnam's fight against the pandemic.

In a telephone conversation with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Xi noted that China and Iran, sticking together and helping each other, have joined hands to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and achieve positive results in bilateral practical cooperation.

China will continue to firmly support Iran in safeguarding national sovereignty and dignity, and is willing to provide as much assistance as possible for Iran's fight against the pandemic and help the Iranian people prevail over the virus, he said.

May 21, 2021

Xi delivered a speech at the Global Health Summit via video in Beijing.

"We must stick together and promote solidarity and cooperation. The pandemic is yet another reminder that we humanity rise and fall together with a shared future," Xi said.

"Confronted by a pandemic like COVID-19, we must champion the vision of building a global community of health for all, tide over this trying time through solidarity and cooperation, and firmly reject any attempt to politicize, label or stigmatize the virus," Xi added.

"Let us join hands and stand shoulder to shoulder with each other to firmly advance international cooperation against COVID-19, build a global community of health for all, and work for a healthier and brighter future for humanity," said the Chinese president.
BEIJING -- With news of achievements pouring in these days, China is pushing forward its deep space exploration, aiming to contribute its wisdom in humankind's peaceful utilization of outer space.

SPACE STATION CONSTRUCTION

On April 29, China sent into space the core module of its space station, kicking off a series of key launch missions that aim to complete the construction of the station by the end of next year.

The successful launch of the Tianhe module marks that China's space station construction has entered the full implementation stage, which lays a solid foundation for the follow-up tasks.

Tianhe will act as the management and control hub of the space station Tiangong, meaning Heavenly Palace.

China will send two cargo spacecrafts and two manned crafts this year to dock with the core module. It plans six missions, including the launch of the Wentian and Mengtian lab modules, two cargo spacecraft and two manned spaceships, in 2022 to complete the construction of the space station.

"The station is expected to contribute to the peaceful development and utilization of space resources through international cooperation, as well as to enrich technologies and experience for China's future explorations into deeper space," Bai Linhou, deputy chief designer of the space station at the China Academy of Space Technology.

China has extensive exchanges and cooperation on the space station project, with the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), the European Space Agency, and national space agencies from countries like Germany, Italy, France and Pakistan.

The cooperation has covered multiple fields, including technologies, science research and application, and astronaut selection and training, producing many achievements.

"Through cooperation, we want to build China's space station into a scientific research platform shared by the world and benefiting all humankind," said Hao Chun, director of the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).

MARS LANDING

On May 15, China landed its Mars probe, Tianwen-1, on the red planet, ushering in a new chapter of China's deep space exploration and marking another contribution to humanity's exploration of the universe.

The lander, carrying a Mars rover, touched down at its pre-selected landing area in the southern part of Utopia Planitia, a vast plain on the northern hemisphere of Mars.

Tianwen-1, consisting of an orbiter, a lander and a rover, was launched from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site on the coast of southern China's island province of Hainan on July 23, 2020. It was the first step in China's planetary exploration of the solar system, with the aim of completing orbiting, landing and roving on the red planet in one mission.

More than 40 Mars missions have been launched since the 1960s, but only about half have succeeded. The success rate for landing is even lower.

The exploration of Mars will not only investigate whether there is or was life on Mars but will also help shed light on the history of evolution and the future development trends of Earth, as well as search for potential living space for human beings, said Li Chunlai, deputy chief designer of China's first Mars exploration mission.

Extensive international cooperation has been carried out during the Tianwen-1 mission.

China is working with the European Space Agency and Argentina for the mission's measurement and control, and with France and Austria for the calibration of multiple payloads and data analysis.

FUTURE EXPLORATION PLAN

China would implement multiple space missions, including Chang'e-6, Chang'e-7, Chang'e-8, asteroid exploration, Mars sampling returns, and Jupiter explorations in the future.

It has completed feasibility studies of the fourth phase of its lunar exploration program and is expected to build an international lunar research station on the moon's south pole in the future.

"China is willing to cooperate with relevant countries and international organizations to deliberate the basic capabilities for the initial construction of a lunar research station and test key technologies," said Wu Yanhua, vice administrator of the China National Space Administration (CNSA).

Three missions are planned for the fourth phase of the lunar exploration program. The program includes the retrieval of lunar samples from the south pole by Chang'e-6, a detailed survey of the moon's south pole resources by Chang'e-7, and the testing of key technologies in preparation for the construction of the lunar research station by Chang'e-8.

China aims to launch the Chang'e-6 probe to collect samples in the South Pole-Aitken Basin on the far side of the moon around 2024. The CNSA has invited scientists around the world to participate in the program, offering to carry solicited payloads.

China is also pushing forward its exploration of a near-Earth asteroid and a main-belt comet with one space probe.

The mission is to send a probe around an asteroid named 2016HO3 and then land on it to collect samples. The probe will then fly back to Earth's proximity and release a capsule to return the samples. After that, it will continue its journey and finally arrive at the main asteroid belt and orbit comet 311P. The whole process will take about ten years.
BAGHDAD, May 26 (Xinhua) -- Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi on Wednesday denounced some armed militia for approaching the heavily fortified Green Zone in central Baghdad, saying their move violates the country's constitution, according to a statement issued by the Iraqi Joint Operation Command (JOC).

The appearance of a group of paramilitary soldiers near the Green Zone sparked a state of emergency as security forces deployed surrounding the zone and blocked all its entrances, a police source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.

The tension came after the Iraqi government arrested earlier in the day Qasim Mahmoud Karim Muslih, a commander of Hashd Shaabi forces, over the charges of terrorism.

"We have directed an immediate investigation into these movements (of armed groups), according to the law," said al-Kadhimi, who is also commander-in-chief of the Iraqi forces.

Al-Kadhimi said an investigative committee composed of the JOC, the Interior Intelligence, Military Intelligence, National Security, and the Hashd Shaabi Security Service was formed to investigate the accusations against Muslih, noting Muslih is being held by the JOC until the investigation is completed, according to the statement.

At dawn, a security force arrested Muslih from his home in Doura district in southern Baghdad. The arrest triggered criticisms and dissatisfactions from some influential Shitte military groups.

Qais al-Khazali, head of the Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq Movement, demanded that Muslih be handed over to the Hashd Shaabi Security Service, considering the arrest "as an attempt to confuse the security situation."

According to local media reports, leading Shiite politicians are holding meetings with the government and Hashd Shaabi leaders to ease the tension in the Iraqi capital. Enditem

[ Editor: GSY ]
Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a speech at the Global Health Summit via video in Beijing on May 21. The following are some highlights of his speech.

[ Editor: SRQ ]
Li Zhanshu, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, presides over a meeting of the Council of Chairpersons of the NPC Standing Committee at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, May 26, 2021. (Xinhua/Yan Yan)

BEIJING, May 26 (Xinhua) -- The Standing Committee of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) will convene its 29th session from June 7 to 10 in Beijing.

The decision was adopted on Wednesday at a meeting of the Council of Chairpersons of the NPC Standing Committee, which was presided over by Li Zhanshu, chairman of the NPC Standing Committee.

According to the proposed agenda, lawmakers will review draft laws on data security, Hainan free trade port, stamp duty, legal aid, practicing physicians and the protection of status, rights and interests of military personnel.

They are expected to deliberate draft revisions to the Law on Military Facilities Protection and the Vocational Education Law and draft amendments to the Law on Workplace Safety and the Audit Law, according to the agenda.

The suggested agenda also covers a number of reports, including a report on the central government's final accounts for 2020 and a report on the ecological protection of the Yangtze River basin. Enditem

[ Editor: Zhang Zhou ]
Martin Kimotho, a City lawyer with Kimotho Mwangi and Co Advocates is one of the most prominent, monied and controversial City hotshots and one of the biggest members of what is quickly becoming a viral Online Cult recruiting monied and aspiring business people into a web of indecipherable crypto labyrinth.

The somewhat hideous club, that seeks to pull millions into online crypto investments, is the brainchild of 51 Capital, the creators of Kenyas premier bitcoin PessaCoin.

Dubbed Powered Up, the club is operating like a secret society, where only selected members are allowed in, various cryptocurrencies is being moved and hundreds more are waiting to join.

Martin, a flamboyant, flashy and brash City Bazu, is one of the clubs biggest names and one of Powered Ups wealthiest clients.

Its a closed society. Youre only allowed in by invitation. I had to personally wait for two weeks before I was approved. You will not believe some of the biggest political names there. Im talking Governors, MPs, CEOs, everyone is angling to join. Think of it like the freemasons, or the Illuminati if at all that society even really exists, its like that, but online now, Mr. Kimotho says with an evil laugh.

Joe Kariuki, the proprietor of the Powered Up club and also the CEO of 51 Capital, has been on the receiving end of the backlash from Kenyans accusing him of running an Illuminati-style club that has been converting people into instant millionaires and that many feel is rooted in secret, dark powers.

Writing in a local publication, Ruth Njeri, an online investigative writer, says that she has been trailing the activities of the Powered Up Arena innovation, its origins, activities and methods of operation and has so far unearthed some chilling information that she claims she will go public about in a week or so.

Yes, its true, their Modus Operandi is pretty much like that of the infamous Illuminati club that has, over the years, been credited with making celebrities and people rich overnight. Whats shocking is the amount of people who are lining up to join the crypto community. I shall be spilling the beans soon. I know Kenyans are desperate for cash but this is truly astonishing, the number of people lining up to join is crazy,  she says.

Kenyans on Facebook too have started blasting the Powered Up Arena club, terming it another hideous secret entity that may soon break families and permeate society.

A Powered Up spokesperson declined to comment further on the matter only saying, The people in Powered Up are not complaining, theyre trading and making huge returns, why are people mad? Relax. This is like any other business. But not for everyone. We are very selective with our members. Youre free to apply to join, though. The results will speak for themselves, 

As more and more Kenyans continue to line up in a bid to desperately join Powered Up, it shall only be soon proven what the whole brouhaha is all about.

Asked to comment on the insane crypto phenomena, Joe Kariuki only said, Sisi tuko kazi Boss. Wacheni makelele mingi,

Check out pessacoin.com and, well, join if youre that kind of person.
Anton Rovenskyy, Master of International Relations, International Political Scientist

This summer seems to be full of dynamic changes and conflicts in the international politics, therefore might become very intriguing. The top list of must-watch summer political events are presented in the article below.

Elections in Moldova

As a result of the 2020 presidential elections at the end of the year, there are two main centers of power in Moldova. Pro-Western Maia Sandu has become the president of Moldova, while the parliament is under the effective control of Igor Dodon, pro-Russian former president, and his Socialist party. The clash between two branches of power, which reciprocally blocked respective initiatives, has to finish after the elections on July 11. Pro-president political parties headed by PAS (Action and Solidarity) are likely to win the run and form a new majority in the parliament.

However, there is another matter as the coalitions in Moldova are traditionally situational and unstable. This means that it is clearly premature to declare Dodon and the Socialists Party to be in uncontested opposition in the near future.

Moreover, Moldova is not in the focus of European and US foreign policy. Even if Maia Sandu gains full power, one can hardly expect an active process of rapprochement between Chisinau and Brussels and Washington. Romania, of which Maia Sandu is a citizen, is likely to play the leading role in the Dniester-Danube region.

The withdrawal of strategic assets from the national jurisdiction should be noted an even more important factor in Moldovan domestic politics. The latest example: the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has bought out the operator of the Moldovan International Free Port of Giurgiulesti.

Elections in Armenia

Early parliamentary elections in Armenia, which came as a result of a long-term national political crisis after a heavy defeat in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, will take place on June 20. After the military loss, Armenia teetered on the brink of a coup d'etat, therefore, the incumbent PM Nikol Pashinyan had any option but to announce early parliamentary elections.

Despite the Nagorno-Karabakh defeat to become a serious blow to the Armenian national identity, Pashinyan has relatively high chances to retain the office and form a personal parliamentary majority. Having in mind that Pashinyan is in control of a serious social base and administrative resource, the opposing political elite, a so-called "Karabakh clan", represented by former presidents Robert Kocharian and Serzh Sargsyan, has extremely low ratings and is much less sophisticated in electoral technologies.

However, it is doubtful that Pashinyan's next term will help to stop the deterioration of Armenian state. Therefore, more political crises of various intensity might disturb the nation. In this case, Armenia is under a threat of its unfriendly environment, which can menace the republic with very unpleasant consequences.

Elections in Bulgaria

In early May, Bulgarian president Rumen Radev signed a decree to dissolve the national parliament and hold early elections on 11 July. The inability of the fragmented parliamentary corps to form a government after the April parliamentary elections was the main motive for this act.

The main intrigue of the upcoming election is whether the era of Boyko Borisov, who is repeatedly in charge of the government since 2009 with some small interruptions, along with the dominance of his party GERB (Citizens for the European Development of Bulgaria), will cease to an end. And the chances are very high indeed.

According to the April popular vote, GERB was victorious with the result of 26.2%, but was not successful in forming a new majority and, accordingly, the government (its opponents also failed to assemble a coalition due to disagreements). According to recent opinion polls, GERB is likely to lose some more 3-4% in July. Moreover, during his office, Boyko Borisov has become an extremely toxic politician, followed by a train of accusations of corruption, attacks on freedom of speech and autocratic methods of government, losing the trust of both Brussels and Washington. These two factors may become instrumental in the process of Borisov's power erosion, launched after the April elections, and ultimately lead to the loss of leverage over the state machinery.

In this case, one cannot but draw an analogy with Milo ukanovic, the head of Montenegro, who has lost the Montenegrin 2020 parliamentary elections, losing the monopoly in the national politics, as well as the Moldovan oligarch Vladimir Plahotniuc, deposed and forced to leave the territory of Moldova in 2019, both losing their reputation in the West.

However, a certain part of the Western elites have fears that post-Borisov Bulgaria would become more loyal to the Russian Federation. This notion is relevant to the Bulgarian president Rumen Radev, who has high chances of re-election in autumn 2021. Radev is considered a moderate sympathizer of Russia, while Borisov previously thwarted two energy projects, important for Moscow: the South Stream and the Belene nuclear power plant.

Israel

A new round of the never-ending Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which came to an armistice without reaching a lasting political settlement (with the resumption of hostilities in the mid-term perspective being almost inevitable) forms the background for the parliamentary crisis in Israel. Following the results of the fourth consecutive early Knesset elections on 23 March, there is still no coalition government. The incumbent PM Benjamin Netanyahu failed to form a parliamentary majority in due time, until May 5, yielding this right to his political opponents.

Having in mind the armed conflict with Hamas, Netanyahu is able to intercept the alternative political agenda and consolidate a significant part of Israeli political elites. Thus, the chances to extend his PM term are rather high. However, the scenario of holding the fifth (!) in a row early parliamentary elections should not be excluded. In such a case, Netanyahu will probably lose his office, while law enforcement officers will intensify the ongoing criminal cases against him on suspicion of corruption.

One cannot fail to mention, Presidents Reuven Rivlin term of office expires in July. The downward spiral of Israeli political intrigue spins ever tighter, with no chances to predict the final result. One should notice, the President of Israel is elected by the Knesset and the new election takes place in early June.

Biden-Putin meeting

The White House and the Kremlin have agreed upon the conditions of the future meeting of presidents. It will take place on June 16 in Geneva, Switzerland.

The high hopes of the upcoming event are comparable to the 2018 Trump-Putin meeting in Helsinki, which ended with no significant result.

The respective diplomatic departments are to draw the agenda of the future summit, however, it seems that expectations are extremely overestimated and there will be no significant progress.

The parties have essentially different positions on a number of global issues and there is no room for a maneuver in foreign policy. For this reason, there is no need to talk about any kind of Big Deal. There is still consensus only on climate issues, as well as on ensuring strategic stability, as evidenced by the extension of New START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) in the first weeks of Biden's tenure by Washington and Moscow.

Nevertheless, the Biden-Putin meeting creates a breeding ground for numerous conspiracy theorists to seek for any hidden signals in their statements and fabricate new bizarre interpretations.
Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal instructed the Infrastructure Ministry to speed up the process of creating a Ukrainian national aviation company.

"The head of government said the creation of its own national airline will contribute to the fulfillment of two tasks at once: the development of aircraft construction and the reduction in the cost of tickets for domestic flights... The new head of the Infrastructure Ministry was tasked to speed up the process of negotiations and work to create such a national air carrier. Relevant memorandums should be concluded in the near future," the government's press service said.

The head of government said the domestic air carrier should purchase Ukrainian aircraft, but negotiations are underway on the purchase of aircraft from international manufacturers. In particular, such negotiations are underway with three of the world's largest companies in this area.

"The development of the Ukrainian national airline should also contribute to the development of aircraft construction in Ukraine. For the first time in 30 years, the government has started to actively order aircraft from our factories. In particular, an agreement has been reached and contracts have been signed for the supply of three AN series aircraft for the Armed Forces, as well as two AN aircraft for Ministry of Internal Affairs," Shmyhal said.
In May of this year, the state-run National Nuclear Generating Company Energoatom sent a message to the competent authorities of the Russian Federation about a dispute regarding compensation for assets lost by the company in Crimea, in particular the Donuzlav wind farm, the company said on its website on Thursday.

"Energoatom will certainly resolve this dispute out of court or in court. The national energy generating company should receive compensation for assets that have not been working for the economy and energy development of the Ukrainian state for the eighth year in a row," Petro Kotin, acting president of Energoatom, is quoted as saying.

Energoatom sent a corresponding message to the Russian Federation in accordance with Part 1 of Article 9 of the agreement between the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and the Government of the Russian Federation No. 1302 dated 1999 on the encouragement and mutual protection of investments. After receiving the message by the Russian side, according to the procedure, the parties have six months to resolve the disputed issue out of court. If the parties do not come to an agreement, this dispute can be referred to a court (arbitration), the company explained.

On December 17, 2020, the state-run National Nuclear Generating Company Energoatom and the international law firm Shearman & Sterling LLP entered into an agreement on the provision of services for the preparation and submission of a dispute notice on behalf of the company to the Russian Federation.
Ukrainians evacuated from the Gaza Strip arrived in Kyiv - curator from the Embassy of Ukraine in Israel

On Thursday, May 27, citizens evacuated from the Gaza Strip by diplomats arrived in Ukraine - a total of 103 Ukrainians. The curator of the group of the Embassy of Ukraine in Israel for evacuation from the Gaza Strip, Dr. Motaz Alhalabi said this to journalists.

I want to say with full confidence that Ukrainian diplomats have done all the work at the highest level! The Embassy of Ukraine in Israel, the Ambassador Yevhen Korniychuk, and the consuls worked around the clock to ensure the evacuation of all compatriots who expressed a desire to leave the region where the fighting intensified, - he said.

M.Alkhalabi thanked all participants of the process of evacuation of Ukrainians.
Interest in the sale of Ukrainian land is expressed by various countries, including China, which sets itself a strategic goal to increase food consumption by more than 20% by 2024, but the ultimate goal of the Chinese partners is not to buy the products of Ukrainian farmers, but to buy land, to grow their own product and feed their citizens, leader of the party Ukrainian Strategy of Groysman, ex-prime minister Volodymyr Groysman said.

Commenting on the prospects of introduction of a land market as early as July 1 of this year on the air of the Ukraine 24 TV channel, the politician expressed confidence that blindly using land, an important resource for the country's economy and security, is a crime. In his opinion, the task of the authorities is not to play along with partners in land issues, but to develop our own farming class, which will become the basis for the growth of our country.

"China is our biggest partner. We sell about 45% of agricultural products to China. By 2024, China's consumption is projected to increase by 24%. This means that they are interested in growing more products. But they will not buy from us. They will do everything to buy land, grow and feed themselves. This is their goal. And we have no right to play along with them," Groysman said.

He said that China already possesses large tracts of land in Latin America, Asia, Africa, even off the coast of Japan. At the same time, according to the politician, the most dangerous factor is the possibility of a strategic alliance between China and the Russian Federation, for which the destruction and seizure of Ukrainian territories is a priority goal.

Groysman also said that Ukraine has no right to make a mistake in land issues and therefore the adopted law on land turnover requires immediate repeal, including through a referendum, where people will express their vision and attitude to the land market model.

"The law passed by parliament is not a discussion between parties. It is a question of the future of our state. The answer to this question lays the foundations for our development for decades to come. And what has been done now has nothing to do with the interests of Ukraine and Ukrainians. This law does not correspond the interests of farmers and Ukraine as a whole. The law will make the country poorer, since it is set to reduce the number of farmers," the former prime minister said.

Groysman said that during his premiership, the number of farms in Ukraine increased by 15,000, and now it is necessary to restore this trend and understand that the Ukrainian farmer is a patriot who is ready to create new jobs in the Ukrainian village, saturate the domestic market and provide food security of the world.
At Normandy Four advisers' meeting, Russia tries to exclude itself from sides to conflict in Donbas

During a meeting of political advisers to the Normandy Four on May 26, Russian representatives made an attempt to exclude the Russian side as a participant in the conflict in Donbas, the Ukrainian delegation to participate in the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG) on Donbas said.

"Despite Ukraine's consistent attempts to return to full support for the ceasefire and the corresponding support of the mediators, France and Germany, today the representatives of Russia have brought the discussion to a question, the answer to which has been known to the entire civilized world since 2014, who are the sides to the conflict in Donbas," the Ukrainian delegation to the TCG said in Telegram.

It is reported that during the meeting between the political advisers "a tough exchange of views took place."

"Ukraine did not agree to Russia's attempts to exclude itself from the sides to the conflict," the Ukrainian delegation said.

They also recalled that "confirmation of Russia's participation in the conflict in Donbas are the statements of the leaders and high representatives of the EU, as well as the recent statements of U.S. President Joe Biden, in which Ukraine and Russia are noted as sides to the conflict."

"Despite the position of Russia, the position of the Ukrainian side remains the need for an early return to a full and comprehensive ceasefire and continuation of dialogue within the Normandy format and the TCG, the regular meeting of which will be held on June 9," the delegation said.
The EU has announced new aid in the amount of EUR 25.4 million to help people affected by the conflict in eastern Ukraine, said head of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen.

"Glad to speak again to President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky. I reiterated the EU's unyielding support for Ukraine's reforms and territorial integrity. We announced new aid worth EUR 25.4 million to help people suffering from the conflict. We also stands by Ukraine in the fight against COVID19," she wrote on Twitter on Thursday.
During a telephone conversation, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen discussed intensifying efforts to supply Ukraine with the required amount of vaccines against COVID-19, the situation in Donbas, as well as cooperation in the Crimean Platform format.

The Presidents agreed on the need to intensify efforts to provide Ukraine with the required number of vaccines, discussed the prospects of establishing a vaccine distribution mechanism in the EU and praised the role of the COVAX program, the presidential press service reported.

The leaders also agreed to continue cooperation to ensure mutual recognition of digital certificates to resume non-priority travel for Ukrainian and EU citizens.

The President of Ukraine and the President of the European Commission exchanged views on the situation in eastern Ukraine and reaffirmed their commitment to the full implementation of the Minsk agreements and the Normandy format, as well as the EU's strong support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

"The European Union remains fully committed to its policy of non-recognition of the illegal annexation of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol by the Russian Federation. The leaders discussed the launch of the Crimean Platform and agreed to cooperate in this format. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Volodymyr Zelensky's personal initiative to launch this important international format to deoccupy the Crimean peninsula and protect the rights of the people living there," the message reads.

The interlocutors noted the joint commitment to strengthen political association and economic integration between Ukraine and the EU, and welcomed Ukraine's efforts to realize its European aspirations, in particular through continued close cooperation to strengthen the rule of law and implement reforms.

It is noted that the parties noted the progress in the implementation of the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the EU, and expressed hope for the launch of consultations on the revision of trade liberalization within the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) and the revision of the Association Agreement.

In addition, progress was noted in the context of meeting the terms of the second tranche of macro-financial assistance.

The interlocutors reaffirmed willingness to complete the technical procedures for the signing of the Common Aviation Area Agreement as soon as possible. They commended the cooperation in the preparation of the Agreement on Conformity Assessment and Acceptance of Industrial Products (ACAA), praised the recommendations of the preliminary assessment mission and agreed to begin on-site assessment as soon as the epidemic situation allows.

"The parties also discussed Ukraine's interest in being involved in the implementation of the European Green Course and EU assistance in this regard. The Presidents agreed to step up cooperation to support economic recovery and investment," the President's Office said.
Head of the Servant of the People faction David Arakhamia announced the preparation of a bill on the creation of a free economic area in the Ukrainian-controlled territories of Donetsk and Luhansk regions.

"The plans also include drafting bills on a free economic area in the controlled territories of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, where there will be many incentive mechanisms," Arakhamia said at an investment forum in Dnipro on Thursday.
On Friday, May 28, at 12.00, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine news agency will host a round table talk entitled "Ukrainian politics - escalation of multilevel confrontation before summer." Participants include Director of the Institute of Global Strategies Vadym Karasiov; Director of the Ukrainian Barometer sociological service Viktor Nebozhenko; expert of Hardarika Strategic Consulting Corporation Kostiantyn Matviyenko; political expert, co-founder of the National Platform "Dialogue on Peace and Safe Reintegration" Oleh Sahakyan (8/5a Reitarska Street). The press conference will be available on the YouTube channel of Interfax-Ukraine. Due to quarantine restrictions, the number of seats in the press center is limited. Admission of journalists requires registration on the spot.
Peter Mwangi Njenga alias Ole Sankale, the prime suspect in the murder of National Lands Commission (NLC) Deputy Director of Communications Jennifer Wambua, is unfit to stand trial.

A mental assessment conducted on the accused showed he is mentally unstable, the state prosecutor told the Machakos High Court Wednesday.

The suspects lawyer Doreen Mwau told Justice David Kemei that her client was scheduled to go for a second mental assessment review on June 24.

As a result, Ole Sankale did not take plea, with Justice Kemei directing that the matter be mentioned on June 22.

The judge further ordered the suspect be returned to Muthaiga Police Station in Nairobi pending tabling of the mental assessment report.

Ole Sankale was arrested early this month after forensic evidence and witnesses placed him at the scene of the crime. He was also the last person to be seen with Jennifer Wambua when she was alive on March 12.

Detectives also established that the suspect is a convicted rapist and violent robber who was sentenced to death in 2003.

It was confirmed that the suspect was a jailbird. Our criminal data system was mined and indeed confirmed the suspect had committed similar offenses using the same modus operandi of committing robbery and thereafter repeatedly, sexually abusing the victims by raping and killing them, DCI said.
Operating in Vietnam since 1995, US-backed Cargill today owns and operates 12 animal nutrition plants, two grain and oilseed warehouses, and two aqua technology application centres. Its operations include animal nutrition, animal protein, food and beverage ingredients, agriculture supply chain, and metals. The company employs almost 1,600 employees nationwide with up to 99% Vietnamese.

Cargill is now constructing a US$28 million feed mill in the southern region.

"Cargill has long recognised the importance and huge potential of Vietnam as a top growth market in Asia. Vietnam will continue to be a key market for us," said John Fering, regional managing director of Cargill Animal Nutrition South East Asia.

"Overall, as a growth company, we will keep investing in and growing our business here over the medium to long term. This includes expanding our capacity and capabilities besides building strong talent and resilient communities," Fering said.

Expansion

Adam Sitkoff, executive director of the American Chamber of Commerce in Hanoi (AmCham Hanoi), said that not only Cargill, but also many other US firms have been operating well in Vietnam.

"American investors are optimistic about business prospects in Vietnam and we support the efforts to create a modern economy that will attract future investment and high-paying jobs for Vietnamese people," Sitkoff said. "AmCham members represent billions of US dollars in foreign investment, tens of thousands of direct employees, hundreds of thousands of indirect employees, and a significant share of Vietnam's exports and tax revenues."

Statistics from Vietnam's Ministry of Planning and Investment show that as of April 20, US investors registered over US$9.57 billion in Vietnam on nearly 1,100 valid projects, making the US the ninth largest foreign investor in the Southeast Asian nation. In the first four months of the year, the US ranked sixth in investment in Vietnam, with total newly-registered capital of US$181 million.

Currently many US firms are exploring opportunities in Vietnam, such as Morgan Stanley, ACORN International, General Dynamics, Nue Capital LLC, BlackRock's Asian Credit, Lockheed Martin International, Smart City Works, Google, Columbia University, and USTelecom.

Intel is now asking the Ho Chi Minh City government for special incentives for further investment. In January, the Intel Corporation announced it had invested a further US$475 million in Intel Products Vietnam.

"This new investment is in addition to Intel's US$1 billion investment in a state-of-the-art chip assembly and test manufacturing facility in the Saigon Hi-Tech Park, first announced in 2006. This takes Intel's total investment in its Vietnam facility to US$1.5 billion," Intel said in a statement.

According to AmCham Hanoi, US companies have had a transformative role in the development of Vietnam. From managerial practices and technologies, to service standards and ethics, the US business community here has affected Vietnam in many positive ways and foreign investment has helped promote economic and social development here.

Business activity started slowly for Americans here. In 1995, US-Vietnam trade was just US$451 million. It will soon hit US$60 billion and US companies and investors are now active in almost every sector of Vietnam's economy.

"It is important to know that while Vietnam's official investment statistics rank the US quite low, the truth is that the United States is one of the top investors in Vietnam," Sitkoff said. "The misunderstanding comes from complicated US tax laws, and corporate structures that utilize global supply chains and systems."

For example, Intel's US$1 billion assembly facility in the Saigon High-Tech Park is an investment made through Intel Hong Kong - so this counts as a Hong Kong investment even though Intel is an American company. Another example is P&G's US$100 million factory down in the southern province of Binh Duong, which is an investment made through P&G Singapore - so this counts as a Singapore investment even though P&G is a famous American company.

"There are many examples like this. We believe the United States is one of the top five investors here and they are also in Vietnam selling cosmetics, soft drinks and beer, cars, aircraft, software, industrial goods, educational services, mobile applications, financial and legal services, agricultural products, and so much more," Sitkoff noted.

Big impetus for trade

In the first four months of this year, the US was Vietnam's largest export market, with total turnover of US$30.3 billion, up 50.1% year-on-year.

It is now believed that with the US economy strongly recovering thanks to an expansion in consumption and production backed by the government's supports for enterprises and people, Vietnam's exports to the US will continue to increase.

Specifically, the extent of fiscal support in the US this year is set to be considerably larger than in most other economies. The US' Consolidated Appropriations Act enacted last December contained temporary new measures worth US$900 billion (4% of GDP), largely concentrated on emergency assistance for households and the unemployed.

On March 12, US President Joe Biden signed the US$1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act into law, sending much-needed aid to millions of Americans still struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The American Rescue Plan provides US$1,400 direct payments to individuals making up to US$75,000 annually, US$350 billion in aid to state and local governments and US$14 billion for vaccine distribution. The bill also provides US$130 billion to elementary, middle and high schools to assist with safe reopening.

The bill's economic-relief provisions are overwhelmingly geared toward low-income and middle-class Americans, who will benefit from the direct payments, the bill's expansion of low-income tax credits, child-care subsidies, expanded health-insurance access, extension of expanded unemployment benefits, food stamps, and rental assistance programmes. The bill contains little direct aid to high income-earners, who largely retained their jobs during the COVID-19 economic shock and indeed bolstered their savings.

Sitkoff said he expected US-Vietnam trade and investment cooperation will further flourish in the coming time , due to many reasons including the US new administration's positive stance towards both nations' bilateral ties.

In the US' National Security Strategic Guidance issued in March, US President Biden stated, "We will deepen our partnership with India and work alongside New Zealand, as well as Singapore, Vietnam, and other ASEAN member states, to advance our shared objectives."

Carl Thayer, emeritus professor at the University of New South Wales, said that there will be considerable continuity in the Biden administration's policy from that of the Trump Administration.

"President Biden's National Security Strategic Guidance issued in March intends to continue to engage Vietnam (along with India). The Biden Administration will set as a priority enhancing its comprehensive partnership with Vietnam in all nine areas of cooperation spelled out in the 2013 original joint statement during the Obama administration when Biden was vice president."

Specifically, the partnership covers furthering bilateral economic, commercial, and investment ties as one of the key pillars of bilateral cooperation.

In early 2021, Vietnam and the US agreed that bilateral ties have advanced across all fields over the past 25 years, vowing to cooperate in deepening the ties "in a more comprehensive manner, with a focus on economy-trade-investment, overcoming the war's aftermath, enhancing maritime capacity, fighting against COVID-19 and adapting to climate change."

The US affirmed it continues attaching great importance to Vietnam.

It is expected that in this year, there will be more connections and talks between both nations' high-level leaders, investors, and businesses.

However, Sitkoff suggested that much remains to be done for Vietnam to attract more American investments.

"Vietnam can attract more American business here by ensuring a fair, transparent, predictable, and streamlined regulatory environment that values innovation," he said. "An overly restrictive legal framework and burdensome administrative procedures open opportunities for "rent seeking" and illegal fees. In contrast, streamlined administrative procedures can encourage and expedite increased foreign investment and support economic recovery here. COVID-19 is likely to continue causing economic disruption. However, I believe the trade and investment relationship between Vietnam and the US will keep growing stronger in the days ahead."

As for Cargill, in spite of difficulties, the company remains faithful to the Vietnamese market.

"We have a legacy of making positive contributions to the country in the past 25 years and Vietnam will continue to be a key market for us. We bring our global expertise, know-know and supply chain capabilities to serve customers in Vietnam's livestock and aquaculture sectors," said John Fering, regional managing director of Cargill Animal Nutrition South East Asia. "We remain committed to growing with our strategic customers and through our capabilities help them become more profitable and sustainable. And most recently, we invested in a superior genetics farm to provide farmers access to better pigs with amped up attributes they need: litter size, growth rate, feed conversion ratio, appearance and adaptability to different environments."
The Lao news agency (KPL) ran an article on its front page on May 26 entitled Congratulations on the success of Vietnams elections of deputies to the NA and Peoples Councils.

The article said that on May 23, Vietnamese people used their democratic right to elect deputies to the NA and all-level Peoples Councils for the 2021-2026 tenure in the context of Vietnam having reaped great socio-economic achievements and improved the lives of its people in the 35 years of renewal.

It noted that the election is an important political event of Vietnam, taking place after the success of the 13th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam.

The agency stated that voters used their rights to choose qualified candidates representing the Vietnamese people in the NA and Peoples Councils, contributing to perfecting the law-governed state under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam.

Participation in the election was not only the exercise of democratic rights but also the responsibility of citizens towards the destiny of the country and in order to elect their representatives who will decide upon the important issues of the country, the agency said.

According to the agency, the Party, State and people of Laos would like to congratulate the success of the election of Vietnam which will contribute to building and perfecting the law-governed socialist state of the people, by the people, and for the people.

In addition, the success of the election also consolidates the people's trust in the Party, the State and the socialist regime of Vietnam and is the basis for success in the cause of national construction and development under the sound leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam, according to the newspaper.

The Pasaxon - the newspaper of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, also reported on the general election, saying the high turnout rate expressed the high sense of responsibility of Vietnamese voters and their confidence in the election.

The newspaper also cited a speech by NA Secretary General, Chairman of the NA Office and Chief of the National Election Council Office, Bui Van Cuong, about the elections atmosphere and the organisation of the election, particularly the upholding of safety standards amid the complicated developments of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Erdogan calls on U.S. executives for better ties with Turkey

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan gives a statement after a cabinet meeting in Ankara, (Photo : Murat Cetinmuhurdar/PPO/Handout via REUTERS/File Photo)

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan asked several U.S. corporate executives for better ties in a call on Wednesday in which he again criticised the White House's decision to call the 1915 Ottoman massacre of Armenians a genocide.



Erdogan said U.S.-Turkey ties would nonetheless enter a "new era" after his face-to-face meeting with President Joe Biden set for June 14, their first since last year's U.S. election.



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The video conference call, first reported by Reuters on Monday, included officials from Boeing, Amazon, Microsoft, Kellogg, PepsiCo, Cisco, Procter & Gamble and Johnson & Johnson, according to a video aired on Turkish TV.



Erdogan thanked companies that believed in Turkey and said he expects the United States to be more constructive, adding U.S. tariffs on aluminium and steel remain a problem. He said they could cooperate in Syria and in Libya including in energy.



"I believe we will make Turkey ... a base for production and technology," he told the executives via a translator in televised remarks.



"Biden's statement on the 1915 events has put an added burden on our ties, but I believe the meeting we will hold on June 14 at the NATO summit will be the sign of a new era," he added.



"By simplifying our incentive system, we will ensure investors can take advantage of incentives easier."



Biden and Erdogan have held only one call, on April 23 when Biden said he would call the massacre of Armenians a genocide, a move that drew Turkish condemnation.


The TikTok logo is pictured outside the company's U.S. head office in Culver City, California, U.S., (Photo : REUTERS/Mike Blake/File Photo)

ByteDance, the Chinese owner of short video platform giant TikTok, launched a share buyback this week for current and former employees, two people with direct knowledge of the matter said on Wednesday.



The buyback comes after ByteDance announced in April that it did not have imminent plans for a public listing. The company had planned to list some of its Chinese businesses including TikTok's Chinese version Douyin in Hong Kong, sources previously told Reuters.



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Last week, company founder Zhang Yiming unexpectedly announced that he will step down as CEO, a move that comes as Chinese regulators are increasing scrutiny of the country's biggest technology firms.



In an email sent to current and former employees this week, ByteDance said eligible shareholders can apply to sell their holdings by June 20 at $126 per share for current employees and $100.80 per share for former employees, the people said.



The price for current employees during an earlier buyback last November was $60 a share, the sources said.



Beijing-based ByteDance declined to comment.



The nine-year-old company typically launches share buybacks twice a year, the sources said, declining to be named as the information is not public.



Some ByteDance employees recently expressed frustration on social media for not being able to sell their shares in an IPO.


Representations of the virtual currency Bitcoin stand on a motherboard in this picture (Photo : REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration)

Bitcoin climbed back above $40,000 on Wednesday for the first time this week, before edging off its highs, as recent volatility in the cryptocurrency market showed few signs of dampening down.



Bitcoin jumped as much as 6.5% to $40,904, before easing back to around $38,797 at 11:45 a.m. Eastern time. Smaller coins, which tend to rise and fall with the largest cryptocurrency, also gained, with ether climbing more than 7.5% to above $2,915 earlier in the day.



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Still, bitcoin is down 30% this month, and has lost over 37% from its record high of almost $65,000 hit in April. It has gained over 40% this year, however.



"Cryptocurrency market volatility is not going away anytime soon," said Edward Moya, senior market analyst at OANDA. "Right now the aftermath of the crypto plunge is having everyone dig a little deeper to try to find out, are the ESG and regulatory concerns going to pose a major risk in the short term?"



Bitcoin's most recent slump has come amid concerns over the environmental impact of bitcoin production, an energy-intensive process known as mining, and as China has cracked down on the emerging sector.



Bitcoin touched a low of $30,066 last week, its weakest since January, in highly volatile trading.



BlackRock Chief Executive Larry Fink said on Wednesday the world's largest asset manager is studying cryptocurrencies like bitcoin to determine whether the asset class could offer countercyclical benefits.



For now, it is too early to determine whether cryptocurrencies are "just a speculative trading tool" Fink said at the company's annual meeting.


U.S firms GM, Lockheed aim for the moon with lunar rover venture

NASA astronaut Eugene A. Cernan makes a short checkout of the lunar rover during the early part of the first Apollo 17 extravehicular activity at the Taurus-Littrow landing site in this NASA handout picture (Photo : NOT FOR SALE FOR MARKETING OR ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS/File Photo)

U.S. firms General Motors (GM) and Lockheed Martin Corp will develop a vehicle to drive NASA astronauts around on the moon's surface, they said on Wednesday, competing for a space project that could also promote their brands on earth.



GM and Lockheed said they would collaborate to make a battery-powered, autonomous Lunar Terrain Vehicle for NASA's Artemis lunar landing program, which aims to return U.S. astronauts to the moon as early as 2024.



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NASA is expected to launch a competition to develop lunar vehicles in its Artemis moon landing program. The agency has outlined plans for a variety of lunar vehicles that can carry human explorers, haul commercial payloads or traverse remote regions of the moon on missions lasting as long as 100 days.



Elon Musk's rocket launch company, SpaceX, won a $2.9 billion contract last month to build the spacecraft to carry NASA astronauts to the moon. That award is being challenged by Jeff Bezos' BlueOrigin and defense contractor Dynetics Inc.



Lockheed and GM have a history in space. Lockheed has worked on NASA space projects for 50 years and GM helped develop the original NASA lunar rover, which ferried NASA astronauts on the surface of the moon in the early 1970s.



For GM, getting back into the space business offers a fresh way to compete with Musk's Tesla Inc and SpaceX for the attention of investors, customers and future employees.



Musk has used SpaceX to promote Tesla's electric vehicles, including launching a Tesla Roadster into deep space.



Lockheed and GM said their proposed lunar vehicle would use GM battery technology to travel "significantly farther distances" than the Apollo mission vehicles, which ventured just 4.7 miles from the landers.



One goal for the new vehicle is to allow for exploration of the Moon's dark, rugged south pole, and other areas humans have not gone before, GM and Lockheed said.



GM and Lockheed said their vehicle would be designed to provide "commercial payload services" and prepare for human landings.


Wafa Mustafa from Syria holds a poster of her missing father in her arms during a protest against re-election of Syria's President Bashar al-Assad, (Photo : REUTERS/Annegret Hilse)

Holding a laminated photo of her father, Wafa Mustafa and dozens of Syrians stood next to the Syrian embassy in Berlin on Wednesday to protest against the almost certain re-election of President Bashar al-Assad for a fourth term in a national vote.



Mustafa's father has been missing for almost eight years. She believes he is being held as a political prisoner at a Syrian government prison. A re-election of Assad on Wednesday would dampen her hopes of seeing her father anytime soon.



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"As long as Assad is in power ... my Dad and another 130,000 people will still be detained forcibly," she said.



Wednesday's election, set to extend Assad rule over the country, "is a clear message to the international community that al-Assad regime has impunity and that it has got away with all war crimes", Mustafa said, adding that Germany's decision to prevent voting at the Syrian embassy in Berlin was right.



Germany, which hosts around 700,000 Syrians, mostly war refugees, views the election as fraudulent. It denied a formal request from the Syrian embassy to allow Syrians living in Germany to vote, saying the election will not be free or fair.



"Most of the diaspora Syrians would not be allowed to vote under the current stipulations or would not vote out of fear of repercussions against them and their families following from a registration," said Christopher Burger, a spokesman for the foreign ministry.



But not all Syrians in Germany agree.



Carrying photos of Assad, dozens of Syrians demonstrated against Germany's decision on Thursday, saying banning the election was unacceptable.



"No matter how you feel about these elections ... elections cannot be forbidden," said Aktham Suliman, a Syrian journalist living in Berlin.



Suliman, who expects Assad to win, said the election was an internal matter for Syrians to decide.



"This picture that they have been trying to draw for years, of one person ruling and the whole nation being against him does not apply," he added.


Somalia's government announced on Thursday that delayed elections would be held within 60 days, following months of deadlock over the vote that erupted into violence in the troubled country.

"About the schedule of elections, the national consultative forum agreed that elections will be held within 60 days" with the exact dates to be determined by the electoral board, deputy information minister Abdirahman Yusuf announced at the conclusion of talks.

The central government and leaders of Somalia's five states had been unable to agree on the terms of a vote before the president's term lapsed in February.

When the last round of UN-backed talks collapsed in April, the lower house of parliament passed a special bill extending by two years the mandate of President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, better known as Farmajo.

The upper house rejected the move and anger at Farmajo spilled onto the streets of Mogadishu.

Rival militias traded gunfire and civilians fled, in the country's worst political violence in years.

The crisis ruptured Somalia's fragile security forces and stoked fears of outright civil war, with soldiers deserting their posts in the countryside to fight for their political allegiances in the capital.

Under domestic and international pressure, Farmajo reversed the mandate extension and ordered his prime minister to convene state leaders for a fresh round of talks, easing tensions as soldiers left the capital.

"It is a historic day today," Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble said following five days of negotiations with state leaders.

"After days of discussions involving respect, patience and compromise, we have succeeded in reaching consensus over the disputed issues of the elections."

The election will follow a complex indirect model used in the past, whereby special delegates chosen by Somalia's myriad clan elders pick lawmakers, who in turn choose the president.

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Egypt reported 1,151 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday bringing the total infection tally officially to 257,275 since the outbreak began in February.

The health ministry also reported 43 new deaths, bringing the total number of deaths from the virus to 14,850.

The statement said that 876 patients have been discharged after recovering from the virus, bringing the total number of recoveries to 188,567.

Egypt started its coronavirus vaccination campaign in late January using the Sinopharm and AstraZeneca vaccines.

Health Minister Hala Zayed said last week the country has vaccinated around 2 million citizens as the country is working to expand the vaccination campaign nationwide.

Zayed on Wednesday also announced the ministry's plan to vaccinate homebound people, through sending medical teams with the vaccine doses to their homes.

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Egypt and Djibouti reiterated the importance of reaching a legal and balanced deal between Cairo, Khartoum, and Addis Ababa on the filling and operation of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) in a way that protects the interests of the parties involved and preserves regional stability.

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and his Djiboutian counterpart Ismail Omar Guelleh emphasised in a meeting in the Djiboutian capital on Thursday that the negotiating parties should display goodwill and have the political will necessary to reach a legally binding agreement.

Negotiations on GERD have been on hold since January, with tensions running high as Addis Ababa plans to go ahead with the second filling of the controversial dam unilaterally whether a deal is reached with Cairo and Khartoum or not.

Sisi told his Djiboutian counterpart that Egypt refuses any endeavour to impose fait accomoli policy through unilateral measures that don't take into account the interests of the downstream countries.

Guelleh lauded Egypt's latest efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement in Gaza between Palestinian factions and Israel to end the 11-day bombing of the besieged enclave.

Egypt's involvement in de-escalation efforts stems from the country's historical responsibility towards the Palestinian cause, said President El-Sisi, who arrived in the East African country earlier on Thursday.

Both presidents reiterated the necessity of engaging in a political settlement path to reach a fair, comprehensive, and lasting solution for the decades-old issue based on international references, Egyptian Presidential Spokesman Bassam Rady said in a statement.

A simultaneous and mutual Egypt-brokered ceasefire was announced on Friday, stopping 11 days of fighting that has been deemed the most vicious since the 2014 Israeli 51-day assault on Gaza, as Israel upped aggression on the Strip with artillery and air strikes.

The Israeli offensive on Gaza killed some 253 Palestinians, including 66 children and 39 women, and destroyed hundreds of homes.

The death toll in Israel from rockets fired by Palestinian factions in the Strip stood at 13.

Egypt has allocated $500 million for rebuilding Gaza by Egyptian construction companies.

Horn of Africa challenges

El-Sisi and Guelleh exchanged views on a host of regional issues, including those in East Africa and the Horn of Africa, the spokesman added.

"The discussions reflected a mutual understanding between the two sides about means to resolve these issues," the statement added.

El-Sisi and Guelleh reiterated the importance of the bilateral strategic partnership to fight terrorism and organised crime in the Horn of Africa, in addition to cooperation on the security of the Red Sea and Bab Al-Mandab Strait.

The spokesman added that El-Sisi praised Guelleh's efforts in achieving economic development, security, and stability in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea.

Bilateral ties

El-Sisi reiterated Egypt's keenness to enhance support directed to development efforts in Djibouti, saying there are "wide prospects" to promote economic cooperation and trade exchange between the two African nations and reinforce cooperation in combating extremist ideology.

Cooperation could also extend to transferring Egyptian expertise to Djibouti as well as providing technical support and capacity-building programmes for Djiboutian cadres, El-Sisi told Guelleh.

Guelleh hailed Cairo's "sincere" efforts to support economic reform and development paths in Djibouti, Rady pointed out.

The Djiboutian president praised the Egyptian private sectors contribution to the economic development process in Africa, expressing his aspiration to increase the participation of the Egyptian private sector in Djibouti.

He also said that Egypt plays a pivotal role in shoring up stability in Africa.

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Kenyans who received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine will get the eagerly awaited second jab of the AstraZeneca dose starting this week.

The Ministry of Health says it plans to launch the second dose COVID-19 vaccination exercise on Friday, May 28.

However, due to a shortage of doses, the Ministry will prioritize frontline workers as the country seeks to progressively acquire more vaccines for the general public.

On Tuesday, Kenyas vaccine taskforce chair, Dr Willis Akhwale, said the country is set to receive a consignment of 72,000 AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine doses by Thursday, May 27.

I finished doing the paperwork this evening  everything is set. The batch of 72,000 AstraZeneca doses will be here tomorrow or by Thursday, said Dr Akhwale.

South Sudan donated the doses through the Covax facility after concluding it cannot administer the jabs before they expire.

The donated doses coupled with at least 100,000 doses that remained from 1.12 million initial doses means just 172,000 doses will be available for the second vaccination drive.

The doses will serve frontline workers who got their jab in March and who will have completed their 12-week gap.
A delegation from Egypts Red Crescent (ERC) visited the Gaza Strip on Thursday to determine the aid supplies the Palestinians need after the damage incurred as a result of the 11-day Israeli aggression on the Strip.

The ERC delegation travelled to Gaza on a two-day visit meant to provide support and aid to Palestinians, an ERC statement read.

The visit aims to bolster cooperation and coordination through field visits to determine Palestinians' needs and affirm Egypts leading role in supporting humanitarian efforts and assistance offered to the Palestinians.

The delegation met with the Palestinian health ministry representative and toured some hospitals that have received the injured to stand on their health conditions and needed medical supplies.

The statement said the ERC will deliver a third batch of medical and humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip in the coming days.

The delegation, headed by the Executive Director of the ERC Ramy El-Nazer, met with the head of the Palestine Red Crescent Society Younis Al-Khatib to discuss joint cooperation to meet the urgent humanitarian needs of the Palestinians.

The 11-day war was deemed the most violent since 2014 as Israel upped its aggression on Gaza with artillery and air strikes in response to rocket attacks on Israeli towns from the Strip, which is controlled by Hamas.

At least 254 people were killed in Gaza with over 1,900 wounded, according to Palestinian health authorities.

Egypt sent tons of medical and humanitarian aid to Gaza to help Palestinians deal with the aftermath of Israel's recent deadly offensive on the Strip.

It continues to open its Rafah crossing to allow stranded Palestinians and humanitarian cases on both sides to cross the border terminal.

Medical and administrative teams are stationed at the terminal to facilitate the passage of the injured and their escorts to hospitals.

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Egypt said on Thursday that it has allowed Tunisian humanitarian aid into Gaza through its Rafah border to help the Palestinian people recover after the recent Israeli bombing campaign, which killed over 200 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

The Egyptian Armed Forces said that its east Cairo air base received two military planes from Tunisia carrying huge amounts of urgent humanitarian and medical aid for Palestine.

Egypt has sent tons of medical and humanitarian aid to Gaza to help the Palestinians deal with the aftermath of Israel's deadly offensive on the Strip.

Egypt has continued to open its Rafah crossing to allow stranded Palestinians and humanitarian cases to cross the border in both directions.

Medical and administrative teams are stationed at the terminal to facilitate the passage of the injured and their escorts to hospitals.

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Tens of thousands of people are evacuating the city of Goma in eastern Congo for fear of another volcanic eruption by Mount Nyiragongo.

The military governor of Congo's North Kivu province, Lt. Gen. Constat Ndima Kongba, ordered the evacuation of 10 of 18 neighborhoods, saying an eruption could occur at any time.

While the main city of Goma was previously spared, it is now under threat, with activity being reported under the urban area and Lake Kivu, Kongba said.

``Based on these scientific observations, we cannot currently rule out an eruption on land or under the lake. And this could happen with very little (or no) warning,'' he said. An eruption under Lake Kivu could also have harmful consequences by leading to the explosion of gas in the lake, which could destroy parts of Goma and Gisenyi in neighboring Rwanda.

Residents were advised to carry very little, that they could not return to their homes until advised by authorities and that vehicles will be provided to help with the evacuation.

With little warning Mount Nyiragongo turned the dark sky fiery red Saturday night and then spewed torrents of lava into villages destroying more than 500 homes and resulting in the deaths of more than 32 people over days, officials said.

Mount Nyiragongo's last eruption was in 2002, leaving hundreds dead. The lava coated the airport runways and also left more than 100,000 homeless in the aftermath. It also erupted in 1977, killing more than 600 people.

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US President Joe Biden condemned the six-month conflict in Ethiopia's war-hit Tigray region Wednesday, calling for a ceasefire and declaring that human rights abuses "must end."

"I am deeply concerned by the escalating violence and the hardening of regional and ethnic divisions in multiple parts of Ethiopia," Biden said in a White House statement. "The large-scale human rights abuses taking place in Tigray, including widespread sexual violence, are unacceptable and must end."

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed initially sent troops into Tigray in November after accusing the once-dominant regional ruling party of orchestrating attacks on federal army camps.

Abiy declared victory later that month when the army entered the regional capital Mekele.

But fighting continues and the half-year conflict has sparked allegations of massacres and rape by Ethiopian forces and troops from neighboring Eritrea.

"Belligerents in the Tigray region should declare and adhere to a ceasefire, and Eritrean and Amhara forces should withdraw," Biden said, referring to the Amhara region, which borders Tigray to the south.

Earlier this week UN aid chief Mark Lowcock warned the Security Council that "there is a serious risk of famine if assistance is not scaled up in the next two months."

Based on the warning, Biden said, "all parties, in particular the Ethiopian and Eritrean forces, must allow immediate, unimpeded humanitarian access to the region in order to prevent widespread famine."

For the first time on Wednesday Abiy's government disclosed the toll of attacks by Tigrayan forces, who federal officials have long claimed would be unable to mount an effective insurgency.

Ethiopia said it had recorded 22 dead officials, 20 others who had been "kidnapped," and four more who were "wounded and hospitalized."

Some of the conflict's worst atrocities, including mass rapes and massacres, are believed that have left hundreds dead.

"The government of Ethiopia and other stakeholders across the political spectrum should commit to an inclusive dialogue," Biden said, urging the country's leaders and institutions to "promote reconciliation, human rights, and respect for pluralism."

"The United States is committed to helping Ethiopia address these challenges," Biden said, indicating that US special envoy for the Horn of Africa Jeffrey Feltman would return to the region next week.

*This story was edited by Ahram Online.

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French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday recognised his country's role in the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, from backing a genocidal regime to ignoring warnings of the impending massacres.

"Standing here today, with humility and respect, by your side, I have come to recognise our responsibilities," Macron said in a speech at the Kigali Genocide Memorial.

Macron is the first French leader since 2010 to visit the East African nation, which has long accused France of complicity in the killing of some 800,000 mostly Tutsi Rwandans.

Macron said France "was not complicit" in the genocide.

"But France has a role, a story and a political responsibility to Rwanda. She has a duty: to face history head-on and recognise the suffering she has inflicted on the Rwandan people by too long valuing silence over the examination of the truth".

While some had been hoping for a full apology, Macron's comments went further than his predecessors and he said that only those who had survived the horrors "can maybe forgive, give us the gift of forgiveness."

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Joint cooperation in the Horn of Africa and Addis Ababas controversial Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) were the subjects of talks between Qatars deputy premier and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdul-Rahman Al-Thani and Ethiopian Foreign Minister Redwan Hussein, according to statements released by both sides on Wednesday.

During Redwans visit to Qatar he tackled with Al-Thani the importance of resolving differences peacefully and diplomatically, Qatar's foreign ministry stated following their meeting.

Gedion Asfaw, a member of the GERD negotiating team, attended the meeting to address the questions and comments raised regarding the dam, Ethiopias foreign ministry wrote on Facebook.

The statement pointed out that discussions covered, in particular, the status of GERD and bilateral relations, including regional issues.

The Qatari-Ethiopian meeting was held amid the crisis between Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia over GERD.

Egypt and Sudan -- the downstream countries concerned about their water security -- have repeatedly announced their rejection of Ethiopias unilateral decision to fill and operate the dam amid the absence of a legally binding deal between them on the dynamics of the process.

Ethiopia insists on starting the second phase of filling GERD in July.

Egypts President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi told US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday that Egypt wants a binding, fair agreement that ensures its water security through stating clear rules for the filling and operation of the dam.

El-Sisi highlighted that the deal should also protect the interests of all parties concerned.

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Displaced civilians in Ethiopia's war-hit Tigray region have accused soldiers of "abduction, torture and, in some cases, murder," according to an assessment by UN agencies and aid groups obtained by AFP.

The assessment, finalised this week, focused on displacement sites in the town of Sheraro in northwestern Tigray, near the border with Eritrea.

It comes amid mounting concern over the fate of hundreds of displaced civilians abducted by Ethiopian and Eritrean soldiers earlier this week from displacement sites in the town of Shire, also in northwestern Tigray.

An estimated 40,000 displaced Tigrayans are in Sheraro, most of whom came from farther west, where US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said "ethnic cleansing" is unfolding.

"A consistent, main security concern in individual and group interviews related to the presence of armed forces operating in Tigray," the assessment reads.

Interviewees presented "allegations of ongoing rape by armed forces of girls and women within and outside of (displacement) sites," as well as claims of "ongoing abduction, torture and, in some cases, murder of (displaced) male youth by armed forces," it says.

The assessment was prepared by the Ethiopia Protection Cluster, which includes UN agencies, government bodies, and local and international NGOs.

It does not specify which armed forces were accused of these abuses, but Sheraro is largely under Eritrean control, according to aid groups operating in Tigray.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed sent troops into Tigray in November to detain and disarm leaders of the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), the region's former ruling party.

He said the move came in response to TPLF attacks on federal army camps.

Though he vowed the conflict would be brief, more than six months later fighting continues, reports of atrocities are proliferating, and world leaders are warning of a potential humanitarian catastrophe.

Eritrea, a bitter enemy of the TPLF, also sent troops into Tigray to back up the Ethiopian military, and they have been implicated in massacres and mass rapes -- allegations Asmara denies.

On Monday night Ethiopian and Eritrean soldiers detained at least 200, and possibly many more, civilians from displacement camps in Shire, beating them and snatching their phones before forcing them onto trucks, according to accounts from Amnesty International and witnesses.

Their whereabouts remained largely unknown Thursday, though a local official told AFP this week they were being screened to determine if they were pro-TPLF combatants.

The operation came one day after Blinken announced visa and aid restrictions targeting Ethiopian and Eritrean officials.

Multiple witnesses in Shire said soldiers cried out "Let's see if the US will save you" as they took displaced civilians into custody.

*This story was edited by Ahram Online.

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A senior U.S. State Department official on Thursday warned that Ethiopia and Eritrea should anticipate further actions from the United States should those stoking the conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray region fail to reverse course.

The State Department's Acting Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of African Affairs Robert Godec in prepared remarks to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee said that the security situation in Tigray has worsened in recent weeks, adding that atrocities have been committed by all armed actors.

Eritrea's information minister, Yemane Gebremeskel, and Ethiopian foreign ministry spokesman Dina Mufti did not respond to calls and messages requesting comment on the prepared remarks on Thursday.

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Israeli police said Wednesday that an officer involved in shooting a Palestinian teen in the courtyard of her east Jerusalem home last week has been suspended pending an investigation.

Jana Kiswani, 16, said she was standing just outside the front gate of her home in the flashpoint neighborhood of Sheikh Jarrah when a police officer ordered her, her brother and father to go into their house. Kiswani said she was shot in the back with a rubber-coated bullet. She was hospitalized with a broken vertebra.

Sheikh Jarrah has been the scene of Israel's crackdown on Palestinian protesters in recent weeks, over a court case in which a group of hardline Israeli settlers seeks to evict number of Palestinian families from their homes.

Palestinians and rights groups say the case highlights discriminatory policies that are aimed at pushing Palestinians out of Jerusalem to preserve its Israeli majority.

A protest had taken place nearby earlier in the day, but Kiswani said that nothing was going on when she was told to go back into her house.

In security camera footage from the Kiswani home, she and her father, brother and a friend can be seen reentering the courtyard when Jana suddenly falls forward. Moments later a stun grenade explodes inside the courtyard near the cowering family.

Video footage from the May 18 incident taken by a neighbor appears to show police officers shooting toward the Kiswani home.

``We are defenseless people and we had nothing in our hands,'' said Mohammad Kiswani, Jana's father.

Police said in a statement that after receiving the video footage on Tuesday, the police internal affairs department had opened an investigation into the incident, and that the officer had been taken off active duty.

*This story was edited by Ahram Online.

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The UN Human Rights Council will on Thursday discuss creating a broad, international investigation into violations surrounding the latest Israel's military campaign on Gaza Strip, but also of "systematic" abuses in the Palestinian territories and inside Israel.

The proposal before the United Nations' top rights body calls for an unprecedented level of scrutiny on abuses and their "root causes" in the decades-long Middle East conflict.

The draft resolution presented by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation will be debated during a special one-day council session focused on Israel's crackdown on Palestinians this month.

The session of the 47-member council, called for by Pakistan on behalf of the OIC and the Palestinian Authority, will kick off at 0800 GMT with a statement by UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet.

Palestinian foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki was among those expected to address the session, as was Meirav Eilon Shahar, Israel's ambassador to the UN in Geneva.

The text, expected to be voted on Thursday afternoon, calls for the council to "urgently establish an ongoing independent, international commission of inquiry... in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem and in Israel".

The investigators, the text said, should probe "all alleged violations and abuses" of international law linked to the tensions that sparked the latest violence.

Before a truce took hold last Friday, Israeli air strikes and artillery fire on Gaza killed 253 Palestinians, including 66 children, and wounded more than 1,900 people in 11 days of bombarding the coastal enclave from May 10, the health ministry in Gaza says.

Rocket and other fire from Gaza claimed 12 lives in Israel, medics say. Some 357 people in Israel were wounded.

But the draft text goes far beyond Israel's most recent crackdown and military campaign, also calling for investigators to probe "underlying root causes of recurrent tensions and instability, including systematic discrimination and repression based on group identity".

The investigation should focus on establishing facts and gather evidence and other material that could be used in legal proceedings, and as far as possible should identify perpetrators to ensure they are held accountable, it said.

"Long-standing and systemic impunity for international law violations has thwarted justice, created a protection crisis and undermined all efforts to achieve a just and peaceful solution," the draft text said.

If the resolution passes, it would create the council's first ever open-ended commission of inquiry (COI) -- the highest-level investigation that can be ordered by the council.

Other COIs, like the one on Syria, need their mandates renewed every year.

And while the council has previously ordered eight investigations into rights violations committed in the Palestinian territories, this would be the first one with a mandate to examine "root causes" in the drawn-out conflict, and also to probe systematic abuses committed within Israel.

Khalil Hashmi, Pakistan's ambassador to the UN in Geneva, told reporters Wednesday that the recent violence was only the latest in a long cycle, and stressed the need for the investigation to have "standing status".

Twenty of the council's 47 members were among the 66 countries that backed holding the special session.

The rights council holds three regular sessions each year, but can hold special sessions with the backing of at least a third of members.

Thursday will mark the 30th extraordinary meeting since the council's creation 15 years ago.

*This story was edited by Ahram Online.

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President Uhuru Kenyatta on Wednesday officially opened the ultra-modern Neema abattoir in Lucky Summer, Nairobi County.

Speaking during the event, the President assured that the Government will continue creating a conducive environment for business to thrive with the aim of creating jobs and wealth for wananchi.

President Kenyatta said the Government will continue sourcing for new markets and expanding existing ones so as to enable farmers to sell their livestock at good prices.

Neema is a Sh300 million slaughterhouse owned by 3,000 livestock farmers and has an installed daily slaughter capacity of 12, 000 and 6,000 small stock (goats/sheep) for local and export markets respectively. Over 85 percent of their products are sold overseas.

The President said the recent re-opening of the Kenya Meat Commission was part of a long-term plan by the Government to cushion livestock farmers from exploitative middlemen.

This week, I was in Athi River to re-open the Kenya Meat Commission and I said what we are doing is to ensure our livestock farmers will not continue to be exploited because of lack of markets.

We cannot have a situation where someone has reared his livestock and when time comes to sell them they are offered peanuts, and because someone has trekked for long he just gives in to any price, President Kenyatta said.

The President told Kenyan farmers that the Government will extend the reforms being rolled out in the tea and coffee sectors to cover other areas among them livestock and maize farming so as to make agriculture a lucrative economic activity.

Already due to the reforms we have undertaken in the coffee and tea sectors, our cash crop farmers are now getting good money, the President said, adding that the Government will continue setting abattoir across the country to ensure livestock have ready markets for their animals.

As a government, we will be putting up slaughterhouses in various places and I know together with those being put up by private investors, farmers will not fail to get good prices, he said.

The Head of State applauded owners of Neema abattoir led by Mr Mohammed Bonaya for the consistency and determination that has seen their business expand and provide jobs to many young Kenyans.

You started small in 1973 here in Kiamaiko and you have been consistent. Today together as 3,000 members you raised Kshs 300 million to put up this huge investment. This is not an easy job and I congratulate you Mr Chairman together with your members, the President said.

He encouraged Neema to take advantage of the new Lamu Port and set up a similar meat processor in the area for the export market.

I am happy because you have demonstrated that you have the capability to put up an investment like this. What you need from us is water, electricity and roads which I assure you will be done by my Government, the President said.

Addressing wananchi who turned out to greet him on his way from Neema, President Kenyatta urged Kenyans not to be divided along partisan lines but rather live together harmoniously so they can benefit from the investments being rolled out across the country.

He said the new ultra-modern Neema slaughterhouse will offer jobs to the youth, adding that the Government will construct the road leading to the area besides installing street lights to ensure security for the residents.

In addition to community water projects being undertaken by the Nairobi Metropolitan Service in the citys informal settlements, the President said the Government will tarmac 400 kilometers of access roads in these neighborhoods.

I want to assure Nairobi residents that apart from the clean water services which we have provided through drilling of boreholes in slums, we are now undertaking another project of tarmacking 400 kilometers of roads in the informal settlements so that our people in Mukuru Kwa Njenga, Mukuru Kayaba, Kiamaiko, Kibera and others will be able to move with ease, the President said.

Agriculture CS Peter Munya said his ministry will continue working to provide the necessary support to farmers. He announced Government plans to set up a tanning factory in Athi River for livestock farmers to sell skins and hides at competitive prices.

On his part, Mr Bonaya thanked President Kenyatta for supporting livestock farmers, saying the Governments efforts to create new markets were bearing fruit.
The top U.N. human rights body on Thursday passed a resolution aimed to intensify scrutiny of Israel's treatment of Palestinians, after the U.N. rights chief said Israeli forces may have committed war crimes and faulted the militant group Hamas for violations of international law in their 11-day war this month.

The 24-9 vote, with 14 abstentions, capped a special Human Rights Council session on the rights situation faced by Palestinians. The session and the resolution were arranged by Organization of Islamic Cooperation countries, which have strongly supported Palestinians in their struggles with Israel.

The resolution, which will almost certainly go unheeded by Israel, calls for the creation of a permanent ``Commission of Inquiry'' _ the most potent tool at the council's disposal _ to monitor and report on rights violations in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank. It would be the first such COI with an ``ongoing'' mandate.

The commission is also to investigate ``all underlying root causes of recurrent tensions, instability and protraction of conflict'' including discrimination and repression, according to the text. Amid signs that the resolution would pass, its authors added more teeth to its language with a late revision on Wednesday.

The revised text calls on states to refrain from ``transferring arms'' _ the recipients were not specified _ when they asses ``a clear risk'' that such weapons might be used to commit serious violations of human rights or humanitarian law. That appeared aimed to countries that ship weapons to Israel.

China and Russia were among those voting in favor. Several Western and African countries voted no.

British ambassador Simon Manley said the commission's ``overly expansive mandate ... risks hardening positions on both sides,'' and Austrian ambassador, Elisabeth Tichy-Fisslberger, said the session ``continues the regrettable practice of singling out Israel for criticism in the Human Rights Council.''

Russian envoy Olga Vorontsova said the resolution ``has the goal of establishing all of the facts behind all alleged violations in the latest period.'' Venezuelan Ambassador Hector Constant Rosales said a resolution ``condemning the genocidal action of the Israeli government'' was urgently needed.

Israel had called on ``friendly'' countries to oppose the meeting, and the United States _ while not a member of the 47-member state body _ did not take part, even in its status as an observer state. An array of countries denounced the latest violence and urged efforts to address the roots of the Mideast conflict.

After the vote, the U.S. mission in Geneva said the United States ``deeply regrets'' the move to create an ``open-ended'' Commission of Inquiry. It said some unspecified member states of the council ``have chosen to engage in a distraction that adds nothing to ongoing diplomatic and humanitarian efforts'' in the region.

U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet, who spoke early in the session, called on Israel to allow an independent probe of military actions in the latest spasm of deadly violence, which left devastation and death in the Gaza Strip before a cease-fire last week.

The 11-day war killed at least 248 in Gaza, including 66 children and 39 women. In Israel, 12 people also died, including two children.

``Air strikes in such densely populated areas resulted in a high level of civilian fatalities and injuries, as well as the widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure,`` Bachelet said.

``Such attacks may constitute war crimes,'' she added, if deemed to be indiscriminate and disproportionate in their impact on civilians. Bachelet urged Israel to ensure accountability, as required under international law in such cases, including through ``impartial, independent investigations`` of actions in the escalation.

Bachelet said Hamas' indiscriminate rocket fire during the conflict was also a clear violation of the rules of war, and she derided the group's tactics that included locating military assets in densely populated civilian areas, and firing rockets from them.

``These rockets are indiscriminate and fail to distinguish between military and civilian objects, and their use, thereby, constitutes a clear violation of international humanitarian law,'' Bachelet said. ``However, the actions of one party do not absolve the other from its obligations under international law.''

She cautioned violence could erupt again unless the ``root causes'' are addressed.

The day-long virtual debate involved personal accounts from Palestinians _ like one of a young woman journalist from the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood in east Jerusalem, an early flashpoint that triggered the violence _ as well as the statements from the council's 47 member states and also observer states.

Israel _ backed at times by the United States _ has long accused the council of anti-Israel bias and has generally refused to cooperate with its investigators.

Israeli Ambassador Meirav Eilon Shahar said Hamas _ designated a terrorist organization by the U.S. and its allies _ had fired 4,400 rockets at Israeli civilians from ``from Palestinian homes, hospitals, and schools. Each one of these rockets constitutes a war crime.''

``What would you do if rockets were fired at Dublin, Paris, or Madrid,'' she asked.

Riad al-Maliki, the Palestinian foreign minister, sought to highlight years of suffering by Palestinians in the lands controlled or occupied by Israel.

``The Israeli war machinery and terrorism of its settlers continue to target our children who face murder, arrest and displacement, deprived of a future in which they can live in peace and security,'' al-Maliki said.

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Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Thursday urged Iranians to ignore calls to boycott next month's presidential election, after several hopefuls were barred from running against ultraconservative candidates.

Iranians are set to elect a successor to President Hassan Rouhani on June 18 amid widespread discontent over a deep economic and social crisis.

The exiled opposition has for months run a campaign on social media networks calling on Iranians to stay away from the polls, using hashtags in Persian such as #NototheIslamicRepublic.

"Do not pay attention to those who are campaigning and saying it is useless to go to the polls and that one should not go to the polls," Khamenei told lawmakers in a speech via videoconference, according to his official Instagram account.

His declaration comes a day after Rouhani said he had asked the supreme leader to intervene to ensure greater "competition" in the presidential election.

Iran's candidate-vetting Guardian Council on Tuesday approved seven mainly ultraconservative hopefuls to run in the election and disqualified moderate conservative Ali Larijani.

The council, a conservative-dominated, unelected body also barred firebrand former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

Its decision appears to clear the way for a strong run by ultraconservative judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi.

Rouhani is constitutionally barred from running for a third consecutive term.

A record 57 percent of Iranians stayed away from legislative elections in February last year after thousands of candidates, many of them moderates and reformists, were disqualified.

The poll comes at a critical time for Iran amid talks with world powers aimed at reviving a nuclear deal that has been on life support since former US president Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from it in 2018

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The Omani military opened its doors Thursday for jobless citizens to join its ranks as angry demonstrations over unemployment shake the usually calm Gulf sultanate.

Videos posted online this week showed continuous protests since Sunday in several regions of the sultanate.

In Sohar, the birthplace of the demonstrations about 200 kilometres (125 miles) northwest of the capital Muscat, protesters clashed with police in the first such flare-up since the Arab Spring of 2011, when Omanis took to the streets to demand reforms.

Sultan Haitham bin Tareq ordered the defence ministry and other government institutions to create 32,000 jobs for Omanis during 2021.

"The ministry of defence will begin to receive job seekers" on Thursday, the official ONA news agency said.

Oman, a country of some 4.6 million people of whom more than 40 percent are foreigners, has been hit hard by the fall in world crude prices since 2014 and the coronavirus pandemic.

The sultanate had been counting on tourism to boost its flagging economy but the virtual collapse of international leisure travel has set back those plans.

Oman's GDP contracted by 6.4 percent last year, while government debt rose to 81 percent of GDP from 60 percent in 2019, according to International Monetary Fund figures.

Unemployment is running at as much as 10 percent despite government efforts to create more jobs for citizens, in a region that has relied on cheap foreign labour for decades.

In April 2020, Oman ordered state-owned enterprises to accelerate the process of replacing foreign staff with Omani citizens. It gave them until July 2021 to draw up firm timetables.

The protests this week are the first since Sultan Haitham ascended the throne in January last year, after the death of his cousin Sultan Qaboos, modern Oman's founding father.

The state news agency described the clashes in Sohar as "sabotage".

It said that some of the protesters "blocked roads and vandalised public and private properties in a flagrant violation of the Basic Law of the State".

Oman is known for its rich heritage, scenic coastline and stunning terrain, but it is also seen by Western powers as a key regional mediator with Iran and with the Huthi rebels in Yemen.

On Wednesday night, the sultan received a phone call from Saudi Arabia's King Salman, who "wished the Omani people further progress and prosperity under the wise leadership of His Majesty", an official statement said.

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Tunisia's Qalb Tounes party, a member of the governing coalition, on Thursday demanded the release of its leader and media tycoon Nabil Karoui, who is in custody over money laundering allegations.

Party lawmaker Oussama Khlifi told a news conference in parliament that Karoui was "hostage" to a "political ploy" and that his preventive detention since December exceeded the legal time of 23 days.

According to Tunisian law, suspects can be held in preventive detention for up to six months. A judge can extend the time but the suspect has a right to appeal.

Karoui is a business and media mogul whose party came second in October 2019 parliamentary elections and allied itself with the Islamist-inspired Ennahdha party. President Kais Saied has accused the two parties of corruption.

During Karoui's presidential election campaign that same year, he spent more than a month in prison over money laundering and tax evasion charges stemming from a 2017 investigation.

He was arrested again in December last year over the same affair.

"We call for the immediate liberation of Nabil Karoui and an end to political harassment and forced detention," Khlifi told reporters.

Karoui is the founder of private channel Nessma TV, partly owned by former Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi.

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With the support of the Russian Ministry of Culture, an online celebration of Egypt-Russia Cultural Year has been held at the Russian Cultural Centre in Cairo without an audience in compliance with the decision of the Council of Ministers.

A photo exhibition entitled The Most Beautiful Countries was opened on Saturday by the pioneers of photography in Russia, with the participation of a group of talented young photographers from Egypt, in the exhibition hall of the centre in Dokki.

The Tchaikovsky Theatre then witnessed the launching ceremony of Egypt-Russia Cultural Year that began with the speech of the Deputy Minister of Culture in Russia Alla Manilova, which was delivered on her behalf by Maria Sverstnikova, the deputy head of the Foreign Relations Department of the Russian Ministry of Culture.

It is for the first time in the history of Egyptian relations that the Russian Federation is organising the year of humanitarian cooperation between the two countries, which means cooperation in all fields, which undoubtedly will contribute to deepening the relations between the two countries on all levels, Sverstnikova said.

Then the Russian troupe for traditional folk arts, which is one of a kind in the world, gave a dazzling performance on string instruments from the musical heritage of Russia.

Another folk troupe also presented a mesmerising, dynamic and expressive performance of Russian folk dances, with its members dressing in traditional Russian folk costumes with delightful colours.

Director of the Russian Cultural Centres in Egypt Aleksey Tevanyan said that this celebration marked the beginning of the Egypt-Russia Cultural Year, and that a delegation from the Russian Ministry of Culture met with a number of officials from the Egyptian ministries of higher education and culture as part of the preparation for the activities of the Egypt-Russia Cultural Year.

In conclusion, Tevanyan also thanked Egyptian TV, which recorded the ceremony to deliver it to the audience who could not attend due to COVID-19 precautionary measures.

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The EU supports, in partnership with the WFP and Egyptian Government, 16 governorates including Luxor and Qena through the Enhancing Access to Education and Fighting Child Labour project, to help children to go to community schools instead of going to work

The Head of the European Union (EU) Delegation in Egypt Christian Berger visited Qena and Luxor governorates in Upper Egypt Wednesday to witness the sustained impact of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) project Enhancing Access to Education and Fighting Child Labour.

The 60 million ($73 million) project, implemented from 2014-2019 by the WFP in partnership with the Egyptian Government and funded by the EU, supported rural communities in 16 of the most vulnerable governorates in Egypt.

The project has enhanced access and use of educational platforms, empowered teachers through continued trainings, improved child nutrition through school feeding, supported womens economic empowerment and improved communal awareness on key areas such as nutrition, agriculture, child labour and risks of irregular migration.

Leveraging the results and experience achieved through the EU-WFP project, the WFP, in partnership with Egypts Ministry of Education and Technical Education, worked with one-classroom schools, equipping them with technological tools and internet connectivity that allows them to serve as community hubs and service delivery platforms for students, teachers, parents and the community at large.

While touring the multi-grade community schools in both governorates, the delegation engaged with teachers and students who spoke of the transformative impact this enhanced means of education had on their lives, wellbeing and future.

It is great to see the impressive outcome of our joint cooperation with WFP in this project that has positively impacted the lives of thousands of children and women across Egypt. The European Union supports 16 governorates including Luxor and Qena through the Enhancing Access to Education and Fighting Child Labour project, to help children, especially girls, to go to community schools instead of going to work, said Berger.

With a 60 million grant from the European Union, the community schools have become a key feature for the communities and are used as hubs to support community activities around them. This is done in close cooperation with our partners, especially the Government of Egypt. Our joint efforts have proven to be sustainable and are making a great difference in the communities, he added.

The delegation also saw how the WFP, in close coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation (MALR), is utilising schools as knowledge hubs to familiarise small holders with climate-smart farming techniques that minimise crop losses and increase yields.

Building on local expertise, the WFP and the ministry are increasing the farmers resilience and their livelihoods through the introduction of sustainable agricultural and irrigation practices as well as supporting the economic empowerment of rural women with in-kind animal loans.

Berger also met with women who have started their own income-generating project encouraging them to increase their households incomes, build their self-confidence and support their childrens education and nutrition. More than 50,000 women received entrepreneurial and vocational training under the EU-WFP joint project, of which 10,000 have launched and are currently sustaining their own income-generating projects through an ongoing revolving loan mechanism managed by partner non-governmental organisations.

I am very proud of the strong partnership we have built over the years with the EU, the results of which we have continued to foster and are still able to witness to this day. Together we have worked on changing the lives of many vulnerable families in Egypt through two key elements: empowerment and sustainability, pointed WFP Representative and Country Director in Egypt Menghestab Haile.

Today more than ever, as the entire world struggles to deal with the negative impact of the pandemic, I believe that we must all join hands to [alleviate] some of the burdens that COVID-19 has had on millions of people by implementing a household-centered rural development approach, she added.

The EU is one of the WFPs largest supporters in Egypt and together the two agencies have jointly made a significant impact on the lives of vulnerable people in Egypt. The EU and WFP joint project supported more than 2 million children in primary schools including 120,000 students and their families in 4,500 community schools. Economic empowerment opportunities were also provided to the mothers which positively affected the family dynamics to the benefit of the new generations.

Currently, the Egyptian Government and WFP are scaling up their joint support to vulnerable communities to reach a total of 500 villages by 2023, aligning with the Presidential Decent Life initiative, which aims to support a total of 1,500 villages in Egypt.

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It was announced on 24 May that five junior students at The American University in Cairo (AUC)  Ali El-Banbi, Ameena El-Agha, Mohamed Mansour, Tamer Osman, and Yasmina Halbouny  came in first place in the AUC Student Union's Real Life Competition for their idea Besta, a mobile application connecting junior doctors in rural and less-equipped areas to doctors in cities.

Besta allows early detection of eye diseases, which can be visually diagnosed while asymptomatic, such as diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. The app automatically diagnoses patients with high levels of accuracy, helping avoid the need for a doctor's intervention in the long run.

"With these kinds of activities, having a team with commitment and grit is extremely important. Creativity and subject-matter expertise mean nothing if your team isn't willing to give it 100% every step of the way," said El-Agha on the reason behind their success.

The competition provides an opportunity for international and Egyptian students to solve real-life challenges that span different societies worldwide.

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This year, the Student Union's Real Life Competition brought together 250 international and local participants. Students from Hungary, Romania, Italy, Brazil, Afghanistan, France, Syria, Australia, Yemen, Spain, Lebanon, USA, Palestine, and Nigeria along with different parts of Egypt (Abu Qir, Giza, Zagazig, Kafr El Sheikh, Port Said, Qena and Alexandria) competed in 50 teams.

"Coming into this competition, I had little to no hope that we would even enter the top 20. We gave it our all for the experience and the opportunity; coming first was just a great bonus," Mohamed Mansour said on winning the competition.

Lobna Abou Doma, co-general manager of Real Life committee, explained "Sustainability is now becoming more important than ever with the limited resources we have, but now technology comes into play with recent advances that allow us to utilise it for community advancement, for solving infrastructural issues, for promoting better healthcare systems and access to inclusive and quality education."

By the time these diseases become symptomatic, the patient could potentially have already lost part of their vision, making early detection during checkups critical. "To lose your eyesight is to lose your livelihood and the ability to put food on the table for your family. That's why we felt this was a pressing issue," Osman commented on the choice of their project.

"We always like to think of our generation as the generation that can actively engage in a digital world and utilise all of its resources to bring about change and community development," disclosed Abou Doma.
The cement industry in Egypt has not been seeing its best days. Over recent years, it has suffered losses of more than LE1 billion due to an oversupply of production. Egypts production capacity reached 83 million tons in 2020, while domestic consumption declined to less than 50 million tons.

Such figures have prompted some companies to stop some production lines and to cut their losses. But the industry is now hoping for a boost following President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisis decision to support Egypts heavy industries, including cement.

Last month, Al-Sisi directed the government to continue efforts towards the localisation of industry and to provide a supportive environment for the heavy industries, especially cement and steel.

He praised the sectors role in driving the national economy forward, with heavy industry being at the heart of the countrys development efforts and an essential component of ongoing urban development projects.

The Ministry of Trade and Industry has been in talks with cement companies operating in the local market to reach an agreement to reduce their production, as part of a solution to their losses.

The agreement aims to set a ceiling on production by amending certain clauses in the companies licenses to help the sector cope with the oversupply that it has been suffering from for a few years.

A source in a cement company said that the government suggested that cement companies reduce production by about 10 per cent, and that discussions revolved around the willingness to increase production at any time in the event of high demand to meet the market needs.

The source added that any reduction in production would be a temporary decision to preserve the financial performance of cement companies and to maintain current prices of cement which ranges between LE800 and LE950 per ton.

However, Ahmed Al-Zeini, head of the Building Materials Division at the Federation of Chambers of Commerce, believes that setting a ceiling on production might lead to higher prices in the local market.

Demand for cement recorded an overall decline of up to 30 per cent during the last four years, prompting companies to reduce production and prices to maintain market share, Al-Zeini said, adding that exporting the excess might be the best solution.

However, he added that many manufacturers were reluctant to export because global prices were not attractive. The government should compel factories to export at least five per cent of their total production to limit excess supply, he said.

Al-Zeini said that President Al-Sisis decision to increase efforts towards localising the cement industry in Egypt were expected to help protect the industry and support the national economy.

He said that national projects from the New Administrative Capital to the new city of Al-Alamein and others have absorbed nearly 50 million tons of cement production, or about 70 per cent of total production each year.

He expected an increase in sales during the coming period, with the expected application of the decision to resume construction work in some governorates.

The government announced the suspension of building permits in major cities and provincial capitals in May 2020, as well as a complete cessation of building permits in four governorates. This has caused stagnation in the building materials market.

Mahmoud Shaarawi, the minister of local development, announced lately the start of the experimental application of a new system of construction permits and building and planning requirements in 27 cities in Egyptian governorates chosen on 1 May for a period of two months.

He said that the new system would be applied to the rest of Egyptian cities from 1 July.

Medhat Stefanos, head of the Cement Division at the Federation of Egyptian Industries, said the states entry into the scene would help to maximise profits, stabilise prices, and better utilise the capabilities of the industry.

It was in line with the states vision to render building materials one of the major exporting sectors, he added.

He stressed that the sector needed the state to help companies export their products, especially given the increase in local supply, as there were many factors that limit the competitiveness of Egyptian products compared to those of competing countries.

These factors include the high cost of production, especially energy, and the cost of logistics and transportation at Egyptian ports, Stefanos said, adding they could be overcome with the government support.

Egypts cement exports increased during January and February this year to record $36 million, compared to $26 million during the same two months of 2020, or growth of 38 per cent, according to the Building Materials Export Council.

The average price of a ton of cement ranges from LE800 to LE900.

Stefanos said that there are 19 cement companies operating in Egypt. The production capacity of state-owned factories is about 18.5 million tons on 10 production lines, while the private sector is estimated to have a capacity of 64 million tons with 37 production lines. The volume of investment in the Egyptian cement sector is about LE250 billion.

Egypt was expecting new investments in the cement sector last year through offering new licenses for the construction of cement factories, but the sectors recession amid large surplus took their toll.

According to analytical statement of the draft budget for Egypts fiscal year 2020/2021, the government was targeting revenues of LE620 million from offering new licenses for the production of iron and cement.

Official reports indicate that Egypt ranks 14th in the world among cement-producing countries, with a total production capacity of more than 82 million tons per year and average sales of about 54 million tons per year.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 27 May, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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A TV series that ridicules the Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, wasnt enough of a warning against running for presidency. This preceded the release of a series of audio recordings leaked at just the right time to set off a firestorm before election season. More recently Zarif announced that he wont be running for presidency under any condition.

I dont think Zarif was personally interested in running. But many in the reform camp believed that he was uniquely placed to mobilise their constituents who have become disillusioned with the prospects of reform in Iran, said Ali Vaez, Iran Project director and senior adviser to the president at International Crisis Group.

It was widely speculated that the audiotapes, which were meant for release in an interview with Saeed Laylaz, were purposely leaked less than two months before the elections. Some believe that whoever leaked them had actually wanted to elevate Zarifs stature ahead of the election, to help him stand out as someone who defied a theocracy, while others believe that it was a hardliners game to tarnish his image as he revealed confidential stories about the countrys foreign policy. Whatever they were, they appear to have scuppered his chance of running for presidency.

The leaked tape of an interview in which he was quite candid about his criticism of the decision-making process in Iran and the countrys regional policies burned him out even before registration was open to presidential candidates. The tape was probably leaked by IRGC affiliated hackers who sought that outcome and were highly concerned about Zarif running for president, Vaez told Al-Ahram Weekly.

Zarif was the best candidate for the reform camp and the hardliners too. He was widely suggested by the reformists as someone to challenge hardliners in the vote, while for the conservatives, he was needed to avoid a one-sided election which inhibits voter interests.

However, hardliners were keen to deter Zarif from having any opportunities in Junes elections as a part of the bigger political rift ongoing in Iran between the hardliners and the reformists.

About 78 per cent of Iranians are set to boycott the June elections, according to a recent poll by the Group for Analyzing and Measuring Attitudes in Iran (GAMAAN).

Elections in the Islamic Republic in Iran are largely political theatre meant to fool the Iranian people and the outside world. The Iranian people no longer believe in these sham elections and will, in a historic rebuke of the regime, largely boycott them, said Cameron Khansarinia, the policy director of the National Union for Democracy in Iran, based in Washington.

Rasul Montajab-Nia, a cleric and the secretary general of the Republican Islamic Iran Party, considered that Zarif is more of a cultured and experienced diplomat than other reformist figures like Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri who doesnt have Zarifs popularity.

Zarifs efforts in keeping the landmark nuclear deal for Iran alive and handling Irans foreign policy crises for eight years while he was in office didnt resonate with hardliners who dont approve of his approach generally with the US as he pushes to revive the deal.

Mr Zarif has served the regime dutifully for decades by promoting and whitewashing it in the Western press, Khansarinia told the Weekly.

Despite being a sharp-witted diplomat with a background of education in the US, Zarif was never able to counterbalance conservatives at home who accused him of selling out his country after the US withdrawal from the nuclear pact of 2018. They also threatened him when the agreement was made in 2015 after years of negotiations.

Javad Zarif always denied reports that he is interested in running in the elections. Meanwhile, he is viewed - wrongly of course - as pro Western and influenced by America because of his decades of experience living in the US, said Sina Azodi, a non-resident fellow at the Atlantic Council.

Zarif is a technocrat who has previously maintained cordial and professional relations with a number of American lawmakers and diplomats. This is hard to accept for many hardliners who continue to view the US as Irans sworn enemy. Therefore, they view Zarif as weak and sympathetic towards the US, an accusation that has no basis for sure, Azodi told the Weekly.

The leaks of the seven-hour interview, included comments by Zarif about the interference of the powerful Revolutionary Guard in foreign policy, complaining that he has zero influence over Tehrans critical foreign policy decisions despite the fact that he is the foreign minister. They also revealed that Russia did not want the deal to succeed as that would result in Tehran normalising relations with the West.

The hardliners camp also saw the leaks as an opportunity to slow the pace of ongoing negotiations about the revival of the nuclear deal taking place in Vienna.

The released audiotapes of Zarif  it remains unclear who leaked them  were just part of an influence campaign on public opinion ahead of the elections against the reformist figure. Gando, a TV series produced by a production institute thats close to the IRGC, has depicted Zarif as an incompetent minister who scuppers nuclear talks with world powers by hiring dual nationals who turn out to be spies for MI6, something he called out as a lie from the beginning to the end.

Id be grateful to Gandos makers if they let us continue our current job, Zarif said, later announcing that he would not run for the presidency.

Many challenges blocked Zarifs way to a presidential bid, if he had any inner thoughts about it. Now he is concluding his term in office before the elections focused on the current job of discussing with Western powers the prospect of reviving the nuclear deal, and thats all the hardliners wanted  to bid farewell to him.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 27 May, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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As time passes, a successful conclusion to Lebanons government-formation process looks increasingly implausible. The Sunni prime-minister designate, Saad Al-Hariri, and President Michel Aoun, a strong ally of the Shia Hizbullah, are seemingly unable to overcome their disagreements.

On Saturday, Hariri accused Aoun of preventing the formation of a government that does not reflect his interests and demands. For seven months, we have given the [prime minister]-designate an impossible task: either the government is formed as the presidents political team wants it, embodying his excellencys will even as he claims he has no demands, or there is no government, Hariri wrote on Twitter.

Lebanons Sunni leader also told the Lebanese parliament that I will not form a government as the team of his excellency the president wants it, nor any other political faction. I will only form the kind of government required to prevent collapse and halt the big crash that is threatening the Lebanese people.

This is not the first time Hariri has gone public to speak about the political deadlock. Two months ago, he left a meeting with Aoun and told reporters-who were waiting for him outside-that the latter wants him to approve a prearranged list of ministers.

Hariri then described the move as unconstitutional. The prime minister- designate - also the son of former premier Rafik Al-Hariri and a former head of government himself - wants a technocratic government that includes ministers who are not affiliated to any political faction in Lebanon. He keeps accusing Aoun of seeking to control a third of the seats in government, a situation that would allow the president to block decisions he might not like.

But Aoun seems to have understood - apparently by the virtue of time - that this kind of political pressure will not lead to a deal on a new government in Lebanon. For example, on 17 March, Aoun said: If the prime minister-designate Hariri finds himself unable to form a government, he should make way for those who are... My call is determined and truthful to the prime minister-designate to choose immediately one of two choices, as silence is not an option after today, Aoun said in a televised speech.

He then rejected Hariris accusations of blocking consensus on the new cabinet. There is no use in all such positions and blame-shifting if the country collapses and the people become prisoners of despair and frustration, he said. There is no escape for them but anger. Everything subsides before the peoples suffering, which has reached levels they cannot bear.

Aoun told parliament in mid-May that Hariri could not form a government. This message came in a letter that Hariri himself did not like. Hariri told parliament - during the same session in which this letter was publicly read - that Aoun is implicitly telling lawmakers that you have named this prime minister, I dont want him, go ahead and rid me of him.

This situation has arguably caused a degree of embarrassment for Aoun, whose allies quickly denied Hariris accusations. Nabih Berri, parliamentary speaker and also a key ally of Hizbullah, called Hariri to quickly form the government and cooperate with Aoun to help stabilise Lebanon.

Gebral Bassil, Aouns son-in-law, a former top diplomat and leader of Lebanons Christian Free Patriotic Movement (FPM), said Aoun does not want to remove Hariri from his position.

This is not the first time Hariri faces tough times negotiating a new government with Hizbullah and its political allies. In October 2019, he resigned from his position as prime minister after reaching a dead end amid the all means all wave of protests against all political forces in Lebanon.

By then, Hariri was trying to form a new government and conduct comprehensive reforms to reduce public anger in the midst of severe social and economic deterioration. But a political agreement was not reached.

The ongoing political crisis in Lebanon started last October when Hariri was appointed prime minister-designate to replace Hasssan Diab, the caretaker premier, following Beiruts port blast. The port blast led to the deaths of 200 people and the injury of 6,000. About 300,000 people lost their homes, and the Lebanese government is incapable of meeting its financial commitments or rebuilding damaged areas.

It needs an estimated $10 to $15 billion to carry out reconstruction. But a donors conference arranged by French President Emmanuel Macron collected only 253 million Euros ($298 million) in humanitarian aid. Most world leaders are reluctant to send money to Lebanon until a new government is in place. This has resulted in a huge economic crisis that, along with the Covid-19 pandemic, set off poverty-related protests and an enormous drop in the exchange rate.

France, a key mediator in Lebanons political crisis since the beginning, recently imposed sanctions on Lebanese officials who hinder the way out of the crisis and we will do so in coordination with our international partners.

Karim Makdisi, associate professor of political science at the American University in Beirut, told Al-Ahram Weekly we all hope for some breakthrough. Yet, he was not too optimistic about the expected outcome.

While we all hope some breakthrough will be forthcoming I doubt France will meet with the approval of other regional actors who are contributing to blocking political movement in Lebanon (in addition of course to the despicable lack of common decency and pure criminal negligence of our politicians) as part of some bizarre attempt to punish all Lebanese for the very existence of Hizbullah (and Aoun), Makdisi concluded.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 27 May, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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President Uhuru Kenyatta on Wednesday held talks with visiting Foreign Affairs Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Prince Faisal bin Farhan Alsaud at State House, Nairobi.

During their talks, the President and his guest discussed the strong bilateral ties between Kenya and Saudi Arabia, noting that the two countries were keen on deepening their relations going forward.

Through the Foreign Affairs Minister, President Kenyatta assured King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia of Kenyas strong commitment to the expansion of the two countries partnership in trade, security and investments to cover other areas of mutual interest.

We need to look at different partnerships to be sure we do not lose out. We are grateful for the development support Saudi Arabia gives us. We need to strengthen our partnerships in trade, business and investments.

We also need to establish excellent initiatives, have outstanding agreements and strengthen our political network to enhance our bilateral relations, the President said.

President Kenyatta welcomed Saudi Arabian businessmen to invest in Kenyas active infrastructure sector within thePublic Private Partnerships (PPP) framework and informed the visiting Minister of the countrys keenness on the revival of meat exports to the Middle Eastern country.

President Kenyatta proposed a joint business forum of Kenyan and Saudi Arabian investors to explore available investment opportunities, saying Kenya and Saudi Arabia can work together to secure their shared interests.

Kenya is an ally of the future. We share various interests in a number of issues especially regional security and trade.

We can work on a business forum to bring together our business community as we work and support each other, President Kenyatta proposed.

On his part, the Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister assured the President of his Governments commitment to continue partnering with Kenya in achieving its development goals.

You have a partner in Saudi Arabia. We have the same vision and we will continue working together, Prince Faisal said.

The Minister, who was accompanied by Deputy Minister of State for African Countries Affairs Amb Dr Sami Alsaleh, said his country enjoys true friendship with Kenya, reiterating the Presidents proposal to explore new partnership opportunities.

Present during the talks were Foreign Affairs CS Raychelle Omamo and the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Kenya Dr Mohammed Khayat.
KYODO NEWS - May 27, 2021 - 20:20 | All, World

Trade ministers from the Group of Seven industrialized nations on Thursday began a two-day online meeting to discuss ways to reform the World Trade Organization and prevent fragmentation of international trade.

Britain, which holds this year's G-7 presidency, has said it will use the conference to push for a fully functioning trade dispute settlement system, tackle unfair industrial and agricultural subsidies, modernize WTO regulations and promote digital and green trade.

Among topics also likely to be touched on is a full waiver of drugmakers' COVID-19 vaccine patents under the WTO's management, sought by many developing countries and backed by U.S. President Joe Biden in a bid to promote a fair global vaccine rollout.

The G-7 nations are apart on the issue. Germany, a major vaccine producer, has expressed opposition to it, while Britain, another leading manufacturer, and Japan remain cautious.

The WTO is under criticism because it has become increasingly difficult for any consensus to be reached among the more than 160 members at the Geneva-based global body, on issues such as the dispute settlement system and digital trade rules.

From Japan, Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Hiroshi Kajiyama and Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi participated in the talks, according to Japan's Foreign Ministry.

The discussions followed the trade ministers' online meeting in late March, when they agreed to "explore reforms that can enhance the WTO as a forum for negotiations."

The G-7 nations also include Canada, France, Italy, the United States as well as the European Union.
KYODO NEWS - May 27, 2021 - 23:26 | All, Japan

Advocacy groups submitted a written request to Japan's health minister Thursday asking the government to reconsider ongoing plans to criminalize the use of cannabis, asserting the need for "support over punishment."

The Japan Advocacy Network for Drug Policy claims a harsher Cannabis Control Law could deny both jobs and housing to those convicted of minor drug offenses, leading people into a "vicious cycle" of poverty and crime.

Possessing cannabis is illegal in Japan, but some farmers are licensed to cultivate it, as hemp has been used from ancient times for items such as "shimenawa" sacred Japanese rope at shrines.

But there has been no penalty for use as licensed growers could inhale cannabis particles during cultivation.

In February, the health ministry submitted test results to a panel of experts showing cannabis particles were not detected in people engaged in growing hemp.

The submission of the document by the advocacy network, backed by the Asian Division of Human Rights Watch, among others, came as the health ministry panel has been discussing a possible revision of the law, amid a rising number of marijuana incidents in the country.

A record 5,034 people were involved in cannabis-related crimes in Japan in 2020, with teens and those in their 20s accounting for the majority of offenders, according to the National Police Agency.

The document submitted to the health minister, Norihisa Tamura, has numerous requests including the creation of a support system for those struggling with the adverse effects of drugs, both legal and illegal.

"Both the people concerned and their families will be unable to discuss drug issues at an early stage if the law is made stricter," Harue Kamioka, representative of the advocacy network, said at a press conference at the ministry.
By Supriya Singh, KYODO NEWS - May 27, 2021 - 12:26 | Feature, All, Japan, Coronavirus

Indians in Japan have rallied to the aid of their homeland as it faces a raging resurgence of the novel coronavirus, with individuals, religious groups and businesses sending donations including prized cylinders of oxygen to different parts of the country with which they have connections.

"We want to go to India and help, but it is impossible in these circumstances. We cannot bear our country's pain and want to do as much as we can from afar," said a representative of Guru Nanak Darbar Tokyo, a Sikh temple in Japan's capital that has collected about 5.2 million yen ($48,000) from Indians and Japanese.

The temple has used the money to send a total of 20 oxygen cylinders and five oxygen concentrators to Gurdwara Kalghidhar Sahib, a small Sikh temple in New Delhi that -- like many places of worship as well as educational sites in India -- has turned into an ad-hoc medical facility as hospitals find themselves overwhelmed in many parts of the country.

Guru Nanak Darbar Tokyo has also sent aid to another Sikh temple in the capital and a small hospital in the western state of Gujarat, and is planning to send aid to other states such as West Bengal in the east and the northern state of Himachal Pradesh.

Many hospitals in India have reported shortages of oxygen to help COVID patients breathe as the country battles its massive second wave, which has made it the second-worst affected country in total cases after the United States.

Two Tokyo-based groups associated with early 20th-century Indian social reformer Babasaheb Ambedkar have contributed 700,000 yen to set up a temporary medical center in the city of Nagpur in the western state of Maharashtra.

"It is a free-of-charge center and we are focusing on poor people who cannot afford expensive treatment in private hospitals," said Linson Wasnik, a volunteer who was involved in setting up the facility. He said there are also plans to build a permanent hospital in Nagpur to cater to medical support for the poor.

For individuals, sending direct aid to India can involve a number of obstacles, as a group of friends found out in late April when they decided to try to ship oxygen concentrators, which are in high demand as a substitute for oxygen cylinders.

Natasha Gupta, 29, who works at a pharmaceutical company in Tokyo, said issues such as arrival delays and voltage differences between the two countries eventually meant they had to procure supplies locally in India.

She felt a strong urge to do something after the father of a close friend passed away as the virus moved from India's towns and cities to its villages.

"Many friends (back in India) were trying to find plasma and oxygen cylinders for their relatives on social media, and I felt really helpless that I cannot do much from here. We knew that something had to be done as cases in villages were only going to increase henceforth."

After donating concentrators to five organizations, the friends' next move is to help Indian families back home who are trying to buy concentrators from Japan but must overcome the language barrier.

"Some people are desperate to get concentrators from here, so we are providing information to them that is only available in Japanese," Gupta said.

The Embassy of India in Tokyo, which Gupta said guided their efforts, has also been assisting Indian business associations as well as Japanese companies on how to offer aid or make donations.

"We did hand-holding for some firms that are willing to offer support and gifts of donation to India, while others did it using their local offices," said Ambassador Sanjay Kumar Verma.

"Every country has a limit when it comes to dealing with such a crisis, and at such times international cooperation is required," he said. "We are grateful for all the help, Japan-India partnership on the pandemic is moving forward very well."

The Japan India Industry Promotion Association, for example, has collaborated with Time World Co., a Japanese manufacturer of oxygen devices, to deliver an oxygen concentrator and an oxygen chamber, which can assist about eight people to breathe at one time.

"We talked with our business connections and came up with this. We wish to help our people in any possible way," said 42-year-old Prashant Godghate, chairman of the association, who lost his elder brother to the pandemic last month, about sending the aid to Maharashtra.

Among other individuals coming forward is Bindu Varma, a resident of Japan since 1984, who started a fundraising drive among her compatriots despite her concern at how mass events were allowed to be held in recent months just as India's second wave of viral infections built.

"Initial feelings were mixed, given the irresponsible manner in which events like the Kumbh Mela (a Hindu festival) and (national parliamentary) elections were held across the country, but the desire to help in any possible way took over," said Varma, 60, adding that "family and friends' support has been tremendous."

Eight oxygen concentrators are on their way to a small medical facility in the southern state of Tamil Nadu run by a young physician couple, who are treating patients at subsidized rates.

"Usually we have to travel around 30 kilometers to get oxygen cylinders filled while having to stand in a queue for eight hours. Each and every minute is important for patients with hypoxia, so these concentrators" save lives, said S.K. Pradhyum, who runs the facility with his wife Swati.

The couple was set to return to Germany where they work but decided to remain in India to help fight the pandemic. "It's like a war going on, so we decided to stay and do justice to our profession," Pradhyum said.

Oxygen, however, is not the only resource the country craves. Many people from rural areas who lost their jobs amid the health crisis are finding it difficult to manage to eat, and some Indian residents of Japan have not turned a blind eye.

Raghavendra Jain, an artificial intelligence engineer working in Tokyo, sent money to a school in a small village in Uttar Pradesh where children of the poor are educated for free. The school uses donations to set up small businesses for parents who had been working in big cities but lost work.

"I follow some people on social media who are involved in social causes and Mr. Ajit Singh (who runs the school) is one of them. Such calls are mostly made from Facebook and Whatsapp groups, and everyone I know has helped in their capacity since the outbreak," said Jain, whose whole family back in India caught the coronavirus but have now recovered.

"They recovered thanks to doctors, self-discipline, and lots of good luck. Still, with several variants appearing, their well-being has been a continuous source of anxiety," the 34-year-old added.

Like other Indians living in Japan -- a community numbering close to 40,000 people, according to Japanese Justice Ministry data -- he is hoping for a swift end to the pandemic ravaging his homeland.

"We wish normalcy resumes soon," he said.
KYODO NEWS - May 27, 2021 - 23:41 | All, Japan

A Japanese court ruled Thursday that it was legal for the trade ministry to impose restrictions on a transgender official's use of women's restrooms, in a case in which she was seeking to freely use the washroom of her choice.

Overturning a lower court decision that ruled in favor of the plaintiff, the Tokyo High Court said that limits on which restrooms the official can use could not be considered "unreasonable" as the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry "sufficiently took into consideration" her concerns. The official was born male and has been living life as a woman.

However, the high court did order the government to pay damages of 110,000 yen ($1,000) to the official, citing a superior's remark that she should "return to being a man," upholding the lower court's recognition of the remark as illegal.

In handing down the ruling, Presiding Judge Junichi Kitazawa said while the law protects the rights of people who want to live based on their gender identity, the ministry is responsible for creating a good working environment for all employees.

"Restrictions on the use of restrooms are a decision to fulfill that responsibility and it cannot be said that the ministry overstepped its discretion," Kitazawa said.

The official was medically diagnosed with gender dysphoria after she started work at the ministry. She began wearing women's clothes at work after explaining her gender identity to her colleagues in 2010.

But she was told to use the women's restrooms on a different floor away from her department because some colleagues were reluctant to use the same toilet booths, according to the ruling. Booths located in the upper and lower floors of her department were also barred.

The court noted that the ministry made adjustments in a situation that had no specific rules or precedents and the plaintiff had agreed to the restrictions. It said it did not see any changes that warrant a removal of the restrictions.

The plaintiff, who is in her 50s, plans to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court.

"It was a foregone conclusion. I am surprised that the court would hand down this kind of ruling now," the plaintiff said at a press conference after the ruling, using the Japanese idiom "overturning the table" to describe the reversal.

Her lawyer Toshimasa Yamashita said the ruling was "sloppy" and comes at a time when discussions on protecting the rights of sexual minorities are moving forward in the country.

Yamashita called for the "right decision" in the case, noting how the lower court had made a good decision in light of the plaintiff's situation and developments around the world.

The Tokyo District Court in December 2019 ruled it illegal for her workplace to limit her use of the women's toilets, saying "the right to live life based on one's gender identity is an important legal interest, and that placing constraints on that is unjustifiable."

The lower court ordered the government to pay a total of 1.32 million yen in damages.

It was the first court ruling in favor of a plaintiff suffering from workplace discrimination due to sexual orientation or gender identity, according to her lawyers.

The ministry does not restrict toilet choice for those who have changed their gender on the census register. However, a prerequisite for such a change is undergoing sex change surgery, which the official did not undergo due to health reasons.

In 2013, the official asked the National Personnel Authority, which protects the interests of government officials, to resolve the situation but her request was rejected. She filed the lawsuit in 2015.

The trade ministry said it will scrutinize Thursday's ruling and respond after discussions with related government agencies.

Related coverage:

Court rules toilet use limit for transgender gov't official illegal
Ahmedabad:

Election officials in Gujarat are going through Congress president-elect Rahul Gandhi's television interviews to see if any legal provisions related to the country's poll code were violated by the channels which aired them, an official said on Thursday.

Gujarat Chief Electoral Officer B B Swain said all the videos of Gandhi's interviews telecast had been obtained on Wednesday.

"The Election Commission yesterday directed us to take action after screening the videos of the interviews to decide if there was any violation of legal provisions, as prescribed under section 126(1)(b) of the Representation of People Act", Swain told reporters in Gandhinagar.

"Our officials acquired those videos today. The screening process has been initiated", he said.

A political storm broke out on Wednesday after some Gujarati news channels aired Gandhi's interviews on the eve of the second phase of the state Assembly elections, being held in Central and Northern Gujarat. The interviews were telecast a day after campaigning came to an end.

Following a complaint by the BJP, the EC issued a showcause notice to Gandhi for "prima facie" violating the provisions of the election law and the model code by granting interviews to the channels.

The EC also directed the Gujarat CEO to lodge an FIR against anyone found guilty of violating the legal provisions. The EC notice had said the TV interviews fell within the definition of "election matter" and violated the Act.

Read more: Rahul Gandhi visits Cyclone-hit areas in Kerala, meets families of affected fishermen

"...By giving such interview and its display on TV channels on December 13, you have, prima facie, violated the...provisions of para 1 (4) of the Model Code of Conduct, Section 126 (1) (b) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and the Election Commission's lawful instructions in this regard", it had said.

After the notice to Gandhi, the Congress on Thursday said the Election Commission was a BJP "puppet" for not acting against Prime Minister Narendra Modi after his "roadshow" in Gujarat.

Modi had violated the model code of conduct by holding a "roadshow" after voting in the Assembly polls, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala alleged.

The Congress had also petitioned the Election Commission to take action against Modi for addressing an event organised by an industry body on Wednesday where he attacked the main opposition party.

A delegation of Congress leaders comprising Ashok Gehlot, Anand Sharma and Surjewala had handed over a memorandum to the poll body, demanding strong action against Modi and other BJP leaders for addressing press conferences and events on the eve of last phase of polling in Gujarat.

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Lucknow:

The Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday approved the draft of a bill to enact a stringent law on the lines of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) to combat land mafia, mining mafia and organised crime, even as the opposition termed it as a "fascist bill".

The draft Uttar Pradesh Control of Organised Crime Bill was approved in a meeting of the state Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, state government spokesperson and Power Minister Srikant Sharma told reporters.

It is expected to be introduced in the Winter Session of the state legislature which commences in Lucknow on Thursday.

Opposition parties hit out at the government, claiming that the new law was drafted to fool people.

"We will oppose the bill. It is fascist and undemocratic. There are already a number of laws. It's just to curb voice of the people as Yogi Adityanth government has done nothing in the past nine months. It's a bid to curtail freedom and will be misused", SP spokesman Rajendra Chowdhury told PTI.

Congress Legislative Party leader Ajay Kumar Lallu to a question said, "The BJP has done nothing in the state after forming the government.

They (BJP) has failed to maintain law and order. The existing laws are not implented and the new one has been drafted just to fool people and divert their attention."

Read more: NGT directs protection of endangered species in IIT Madras

On opposing the draft bill, Lallu said he had not yet got a copy of the same. "It will be decided by the party accordingly at an opportune time", he said.

Earlier, Sharma said that the rule of law was the top priority of the government.

"For this it is essential that those indulging in mafia and 'goonda' activities, and disturbing peace in the society are identified and a special drive is launched against them...The bill is being brought with this purpose in mind", he said.

The draft of the proposed legislation has been prepared in consultation with the Law Department to check organised and white-collar crime, and mafias, Sharma said, adding that there are 28 provisions in the draft bill which are not present in the existing Gangsters Act.

The committee set up to examine the draft bill also took into account a similar act in Maharashtra. It was headed by the home department's secretary with the additional director general of police for crime and special secretary law as its members, the minister said.

Sharma said organised crime was defined in detail in the draft bill.

"Kidnapping for ransom, illegal mining, manufacturing illicit liquor and its sale, acquiring contracts on the basis of muscle power, organised exploitation of forest produce, trade in wildlife, fake medicines, grabbing of government and private properties, and 'rangdari' (extortion) will come underthe ambit of the new law", he said.

Sharma said arrangements have also been made to check the misuse of the bill and that cases under it will be filed only on the recommendations of the committee of divisional commissioner and the range deputy inspector general of police.

The permission of the zonal inspector general of police will be required before filing of charge sheet after thorough inquiry, he said.

It has also been proposed that properties amassed through organised crime would be taken over by the government with the permission of the court during the course of investigation to check criminal elements from taking advantage of it, Sharma said.

The property will be confiscated by the state government after conviction, the minister said.

Sharma said that special courts will be constituted for hearing of cases lodged under the provisions of this bill and that a state-level organised crime control authority has been proposed to monitor gangs involved in organised crime.

The state-level authority will be headed by the principal secretary for home.

Read more: Indian teacher among top 50 contenders for USD 1 million Global Teacher Prize

"This authority will either take cognisance on its own or on a complaint. It will probe the activities of organised gangs and will be entitled to examine any government file related to the case", he said.

There is also a provision to form district-level organised crime control authorities which will be led by district magistrates. They can recommend cases to the state-level authority after thorough probe, Sharma said.

The draft bill also proposes a tribunal led by a retired high court judge for appealing against it. It will have a principal secretary and an official of the DGP rank as its members, the minister said, adding that anyone can appeal against the decision of the authority in this tribunal.

Those having security and found to be involved in organised crime will no longer be extended government protection and all white-collar criminals will be treated as such, he said.

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New Delhi:

The governments decision to lift a ban on Muslim women undertaking Haj pilgrimage without Mehram (a male companion) has generated positive results, Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said on Thursday.

According to a statement, Naqvi made the comments while referring to a large number of applications the Haj Committee of India (HCoI) has received under the category.

Under the category, Muslim women aged above 45 will be allowed to go for the pilgrimage without Mehram in a group of at least four.

The Narendra Modi governments decision to lift the ban concerned has generated very positive results as Muslim women, from across the country, are applying in a large number under this category, the statement quoted Naqvi as saying.

The minority affairs minister made the remarks while launching a portal for private tour operators (PTOs) here.

This is another important step towards women empowerment by the government, Naqvi added.

The application process for Haj 2018 started on November 15 and more than 1,000 women have applied under the category.

More than 2.63 lakh people have applied for undertaking the annual Haj pilgrimage till December 13. Out of this, 1.38 lakh applications have been received online.

It has given a boost to the ministrys decision to make entire Haj process digital. Besides, people are also applying through mobile app, he said.

Naqvi said the previous distribution formula for quota between the HCoI and PTOs (73.53 per cent and 26.47 per cent, respectively) has been retained.

A high-level panel formed by the government to work out the draft Haj 2018-2022 policy had recommended increase the quota of PTOs to 30 per cent. Naqvi said that Haj 2018 will be conducted according to the new policy.

He said the portal for the PTOs has been launched for the first time by the ministry to ensure that the entire process related to Haj becomes fully transparent.

The portal has been developed to carry forward Modis Digital India programme. The portal is aimed at addressing several issues of PTOs and Haj pilgrims, he added.

PTOs can apply online with required documents through the portal. These applications will be scrutinised by the Haj Division of the ministry. After this, draw of lots will be done online and seat will be allocated.

The portal also aims at displaying details of the rates, packages and facilities offered by the PTOs across the country, the statement said.

While the entire process has been simplified and made transparent for the PTOs, it has also been clearly instructed that any discrepancies in facilities for Haj pilgrims going through PTOs will not be tolerated, Naqvi said.

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New Delhi:

Vistara has informed aviation regulator DGCA that Zaira Wasims mother did not want to register a complaint about the alleged molestation of the actor on-board its flight, an airline source said.

The airline has informed the watchdog about it in the final investigation report into the incident submitted earlier this week.

Following the incident, one Vikas Sachdev was arrested. In its final report about the incident, the airline has said the actors mother did not want to register a complaint when she was asked by the airline crew, the source said.

According to the source, the airline is also evaluating the possibility of setting up an internal panel to look into various aspects related to unruly passenger behaviour as per guidelines issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

The detailed probe report was prepared by the airline after talking to all the people concerned about the incident, including Wasim, crew and ground handling staff.

Vistara spokesperson was not immediately available for comment about the probe report.

We are deeply concerned and regret the unfortunate experience Zaira Wasim had onboard our flight last night. We continue to give this case our highest attention and are extending our full support to all relevant authorities for the investigations underway, the airline had said in a statement on December 10.

The Dangal actor, who had narrated her ordeal on the Vistara flight from Delhi to Mumbai on Instagram, had said that a passenger sitting behind her put his feet on her armrest.

In the video, which Wasim recorded immediately after deboarding the flight, the 17-year-old actor broke down several times.

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New Delhi:

The CBI today sought from a Delhi court the maximum seven-year jail term for former Jharkhand chief minister Madhu Koda, ex-coal secretary H C Gupta and others who have been convicted in a coal scam case, terming them as criminals holding office.

Special rJudge Bharat Parasha will pronounce on December 16 its order on quantum of punishment for the convicts, who have sought leniency from the court.

Besides Koda and Gupta, ex-Jharkhand chief secretary A K Basu and Kodas close aide Vijay Joshi, along with the company Vini Iron and Steel Udyog Ltd (VISUL) were yesterday held guilty of corruption and criminal conspiracy in the allocation of of Rajhara North coal block in Jharkhand to Kolkata-based private company VISUL.

The CBI said that considering their official position and conduct, there was no sufficient ground for leniency.

They are criminals holding the office. Its a classic case of corruption involving high public servants, the CBI said, seeking imposition of maximum jail term and fine on the convicts. It also sought imposition of heavy financial penalty on the convicted company VISUL.

The agency said Koda was accused in some other coal scam cases, while Gupta was convicted in another coal scam case and that there were more than ten cases pending against the former bureaucrat.

46-year-old Koda sought leniency from the court claiming that he was suffering from various aliments and had a family to look after.

He also said this was his first conviction in a criminal case and his conduct has remained above board during the trial as he had regularly appeared before the court.

Gupta, 70, told the court that he was the sole bread earner whose only source of income was his pension received after retirement from an unblemished career and urged for minimum punishment and a fine of not more than Rs 50,000.

69-year-old Basu claimed that he has been operated for heart ailments twice and has also to take care of his ailing wife.

Maintaining that he had regularly appeared before the court during the trial, Basu claimed he had a 45-year long unblemished service record and no allegation has been made against him in the entire matter that he had obtained any financial gain.

Joshi, 54, also sought leniency from the court saying he was suffering from various ailments and had to look after a family consisting of an aged mother and ailing wife. He said he was a shareholder of the company for which the consideration amount is yet to be paid.

The companys counsel submitted that it did not have the financial strength to pay a heavy amount.

Beside the five convicted, the court had acquitted four persons ? VISULs former director Vaibhav Tulsyan and two public servants Basant Kumar Bhattacharya and Bipin Bihari Singh and chartered accountant Navin Kumar Tulsyan ? of all charges levelled against

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New Delhi :

A HRD Ministry official, who was missing since Monday morning, was found dead near railway tracks at Palam in south west Delhi on Thursday.

Police said, the deceased has been identified as Jitendra Kumar Jha, a resident of Dwarka. He was a 1998-batch officer and currently posted with Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS).

According to Delhi Police, ICAS officer had gone missing from Dwarka on Monday after he had gone for a morning walk.

Police believes that Jha has committed suicide. In our initial investigation it seems the ICAS officer has committed suicide. Yet, we are investing the case in all angle, said a police officer.

Also read| Jammu and Kashmir: Indian Army jawan shoots self during duty hours



The officer added that they have found a suicide note from his pocket. In the note he had mentioned that no one is responsible for his death.

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Vera Sidikas ex-lover Jimmy Chansa says he does not regret dating the popular socialite.

Speaking about their relationship for the first time since they broke up, the Tanzanian was full of praise for Vera Sidika. He told Tanzanian publication Simulizi na Sauti that he was deeply in love with Vera.

It was love, just like any other relationship, he said.

Chansa described the proprietor of Vera Sidika Beauty Parlour as authentic with a loving personality despite her celebrity status.

The person I was with was a socialite already, and thats why our relationship was public. Social media pressure was normal but what made me stick with her was her good and loving personality. She is smart. I do not regret. It was good while it lasted, Chansa said.

The medical practitioner said he is proud of their relationship and that he is happy if Vera Sidika is happy in her new love affair with Brown Mauzo.

Once you are a socialite, social media is your business but she is real; she doesnt fake anything. Im proud of that. I am happy if she is happy, he said.

While Chansa does not regret their love affair, Vera Sidika on the other hand described the relationship as toxic.

Saddest thing about this relationship is that people thought he was the most innocent, decent person I have ever dated. I did until the real person unveiled. The things I went through and saw I have never been so shocked in my life. Out of all my relationships it was the most shocking one to me. Better the devil you know than the Angel you dont know, Vera Sidika said in March of this year.

When same mistakes are repeated severally then it means it is a habit that will never change. Its because of growth and maturity otherwise if I was to post the things I saw and went through yall would have hated yourselves for thinking it was the best relationship. I had to end it faster. Woi! Im so glad I ended it, she said.
Puri:

Four Russian nationals including three women were detained by Odisha Police on Tuesday for flying a drone equipped with a camera capable of taking high-definition images over the Sri Jagannath Temple in Odishas Puri on Thursday.

Puri Police said, the detained claimed that they were members of ISKCON.

A senior police officer said, the four devotees from the ISKCON were operating drone from roof of Radha Ballav Mutt, located a few meters away from the temple.

Sarthak Sarangi, SP Puri, said, The four were questioned and later released on personal bonds.

He added that the four told the questioning team that they were unaware of the no-flying rules in the area.

Also read| Over 14 per cent growth in foreign tourist arrivals in November: Govt



The Russians also told the questioning team that they were trying to photograph the shrine for creating roadmap to the temple, added the SP.

The Puri administration had declared the area a no flying zone in 2014 after a quadcopter took werial videos and photographs of the temple an uploaded them on social media. Since then a patrolling team has been deployed to keep a tab on to prevent flying of UAV in the area.

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New Delhi:

The Board of School Education Haryana (BSEH) will release the Haryana TET Hall ticket 2017 today at htetonline.com. The Haryana Teachers Eligibility Test (HTET) 2017 is scheduled to be held on December 23 and 24.

Once the admit card is released on the official website, applicants can download the HTET admit card 2017.

According to reports, a total of 5,02,076 candidates have registered for the exam of which 1.49 lakh registered for Level 1 PRT (primary teacher), while for level 2 (TGT teacher) 1,67,364 and Level 3 (PGT-Lecturer) 1,27,352 applicants have applied.



Steps to Download HTET Admit Card 2017

# Visit the HTET website, htetonline.com

# Search the HPTET Hall Ticket download link in organization website.

# Click the download link and enter the required details like Name and registration no.

# Submit the details and it will display on the screen after some time.

# Check the information in HTET Hall Ticket 2017.

Save or download the admit card and take a printout.

About BSEH:

The Board of School Education of Haryana, Bhiwani came into the existence in 1969 as per the Haryana Act No- 11 of 1969 with its headquarters at Chandigarh. Later it shifted to Bhiwani in 1981 January. The BSE Haryana annually conducts the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) examination for aspirants aiming to become TGT, PGT, and PRT school teachers. Every year lakhs of applicants registers for HTET examination. As per the announcement of BSE Haryana.

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Brussels:

British Prime Minister Theresa May urged EU leaders at a summit on Thursday to move Brexit talks onto trade as quickly as possible, as they prepared to sign off on an interim deal on the divorce.

Her 27 counterparts are expected to agree on Friday that sufficient progress has been made on key separation issues including the divorce bill and the Irish border to move the negotiations onto the future relationship.

The EU's negotiating guidelines state they will start talks on a post-Brexit transition in January but will not begin trade talks until March, calling for more clarity about Britain's goals.

Addressing the leaders over a night dinner of roasted langoustines, ballotine of capon and "festive log with a twist", May was "clear about wanting to move onto trade talks as quickly as possible", a British official said.

May told them she "makes no secret of wanting to move onto the next phase and to approach it with ambition and creativity", adding that a "particular priority" should be the transition period.

The British premier had earlier sought to brush off a parliamentary defeat over her Brexit strategy, in which members of her Conservative party rebelled to demand a final vote over the terms of the withdrawal.

May said she was "disappointed" at the setback, which critics warned could undermine her authority to deliver a deal, but stressed: "We're on course to deliver Brexit."

Read- Four children killed after train mows into school bus in Perpignan in France

Several other EU leaders sought to play down the impact of the vote, although Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel warned that the domestic opposition was "not making her life easier".

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said May still had a "formidable stature" in Brussels, saying that last week's hard-fought agreement on the divorce deal "showed you should not underestimate her".

However, with British ministers only due to discuss the post-Brexit future next week, he warned that "we need from her to understand how she sees the future relationship".

German Chancellor Angela Merkel added that while progress has been made, there were still "outstanding questions".

After months of tortuous negotiations, European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker struck a deal with May last week on the outline terms of Britain's withdrawal from the EU in March 2019.

It covers Britain's financial settlement, the future of the Irish border and expatriate rights, while the next stage will cover trade and a transition period to ease the break.

British officials are hoping for a deal by March on a two-year transition, during which the bilateral relationship would largely stay the same, although Britain would have to follow EU laws.

However, the EU has warned May that her hopes of agreeing a bespoke trade deal before Brexit to replace Britain's membership of the EU's single market and customs union is unrealistic.

"I'm looking forward to discussing that deep and special partnership for the future," May said as she arrived for the summit.

If Wednesday's vote pointed to the battles May still faces at home over Brexit, EU President Donald Tusk acknowledged the bloc's own unity would be tested in the months ahead.

"I have no doubt that the real test of our unity will be the second phase of the Brexit talks," Tusk told reporters as he arrived at the summit.

He said a "lack of unity is very visible" on two key subjects facing the EU after Britain leaves: plans for a way forward on the migration crisis, and proposals for reforms of the eurozone.

However, Tusk warned earlier this week of a "furious race against time" to reach the next stage of negotiations.

Questions still linger over the divorce agreement, after British Brexit minister David Davis appeared to suggest it was not legally enforceable.

There are particular concerns about the guarantee made by London -- at Dublin's request -- that there will be no frontier checks between Ireland and the British province of Northern Ireland.

Davis's comments prompted a warning by the EU that Britain must not backtrack, and Rutte repeated on Thursday: "We cannot have a misunderstanding of what was agreed."

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Washington :

US President Donald Trump on Thursday thanked his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin over the phone for acknowledging Americas strong economic performance, the White House said.

The phone call between the two leaders came after Putin's annual press conference in which he praised Trump.

President Trump thanked President Putin for acknowledging Americas strong economic performance in his annual press conference, the White House said in a readout of the call.

During the phone call, the two presidents also discussed working together to resolve the very dangerous situation in North Korea, the White House said.

Citing the markets and consumer confidence, Putin said Trump had some quite serious achievements to his credit in the short time that he has been the president of the United States.

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New Delhi :

The BJP is headed for a clear win in Gujarat, News Nation exit poll has predicted. The exit poll results show that the saffron party is projected to win at least 135 assembly seats out of 182 in PM Modis hometown, while the ruling Congress may settle for maximum of 46 seats.

The exit poll predicts 135-139 seats for BJP, 42-46 for Congress. The state had voted on December 9 and December 14. The counting will be on December 18 along with Gujarat, where voting ended on Thursday.

The survey found that the voters of the state considered development followed by demonetisation and Patidar reservation while casting their franchise.

Gujarat had recorded an estimated 68.70 per cent voter turnout in the second and final phase of polling for 93 Assembly seats. Around 2.22 crore people were eligible to exercise their franchise to choose their representatives from among 851 candidates in the fray. While, on December 9, votes were casted on 89 seats with 977 candidates were in the fray.

According to the survey, 36 per cent people of the state want to see BJP candidate Vijay Rupani as the state's chief minister.

News Nation Exit Poll: Favourite CM candidate #ExitPollWithNewsNation @BARCIndia https://t.co/zbbWE9OgKh pic.twitter.com/ZKWeHf0Bjm

 News Nation (@NewsNationTV) December 14, 2017

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Yangon:

At least 6,700 Rohingya Muslims were killed in the first month of a Myanmar army crackdown on rebels in Rakhine state that began in late August, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) said on Thursday.

The figure is the highest estimated death toll yet of violence that erupted on August 25 and triggered a massive refugee crisis, with more than 620,000 Rohingya fleeing Myanmar for Bangladesh in three months.

The UN and US have described the military operation as ethnic cleansing of the Muslim minority, but have not released specific estimations of a death toll.

At least 6,700 Rohingya, in the most conservative estimations, are estimated to have been killed, including at least 730 children below the age of five, MSF said Thursday.

The groups findings come from six surveys of more than 2,434 households in Rohingya refugee camps and cover a period of one month.

We met and spoke with survivors of violence in Myanmar, who are now sheltering in overcrowded and unsanitary camps in Bangladesh, said the groups medical director Sidney Wong.

What we uncovered was staggering, both in terms of the numbers of people who reported a family member died as a result of violence, and the horrific ways in which they said they were killed or severely injured.

Gunshot wounds were the cause of death in 69 percent of the cases, according to the survey.

Another nine percent were reported burned alive inside houses, while five percent died from fatal beatings.

For children under five, nearly 60 percent died after being shot, the survey found.

Myanmars army has denied any abuses and says only 400 peopleincluding 376 Rohingya terroristsdied in the first few weeks of the crackdown.

But MSF said the peak in deaths coincided with the launch of clearance operations by the army and local militias in late August, and were evidence that Rohingya have been targeted.

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Jammu:

An Indian Army jawan shot himself during duty hours at RS Pura Border belt of Jammu and Kashmir, police said on Thursday.

The deceased has been identified as Lance Naik Parvesh Kumar Mishra, 34, of the 118 Medium Regiment. Mishra hailed from Odisha and lived with his family in Kunjwani Army quarters.

According to Jammu and Kashmir Police, the deceased pumped in two rounds of bullet into his head.

A senior police officer Jammu and Kashmir Police said, The bullets pierced his helmet and head. It is yet not clear if he committed suicide or the firing was result of mis-firing

Police said, he shot himself with his duty rifle, INSAS, early in the morning. He was posted near Chhalla village under RS Police station area.

Surinder Choudhary, sub-divisional police officer (SDPO) said, We are investigating the matter. We have not found any suicide note from his possession. Reasons behind the act is yet not clear.

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The United States National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan held discussion with his Afghan counterpart Hamdullah Mohib on Wednesday, regarding peace process among other issues, the White House said. During the call, Mr. Sullivan stressed that the U.S will remain deeply engaged with the government of Afghanistan and the Afghan people as US troops depart the country.

"He and Dr Mohib reaffirmed the enduring strength of the bilateral partnership and committed to continue to consult closely. Mr Sullivan outlined the US plans to continue security assistance to the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces, as well as civilian assistance to help the Afghan people," said Emily Horne, spokesperson of the National Security Council, White House.

The two officials agreed on the importance of the two governments continuing to work closely together in support of common objectives, including a negotiated political settlement that ends the war in Afghanistan, Ms. Horne said adding that Mr. Sullivan highlighted that the US will stand firmly with the Afghan people as they seek to achieve durable and inclusive peace.

"India has been a hopeful partner in Afghanistan in terms of training and that kind of thing. Whether that continues, that is really for the Indian government to speak to, not for us to," Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby told reporters at a news conference.

French President Macron once again extents support, solidarity with India

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Birgunj, May 27

Security has been tightened along the Nepal-India border here in view of the Covid-19 outbreak.

The Armed Police Force (APF) Chhinnamasta Battalion Headquarters Province 2 has stated that the common border with India in all eight districts of the province has been tightened aiming to control the mobility via border points.

According to APF DIG Chandra Prakash Gautam, the border points are strictly monitored so that no mobility could occur there.

Province 2 shares a 464 km border with India from Saptari to Parsa.

DIG Gautam adds he has coordinated with Indian sides to tighten the international border so that no bilateral mobility and other irregularities could occur via border points in this critical hour caused by the Covid-19 outbreak in both Nepal and India.
Update: 27-05-2021 | 15:41:11

Vietnams domestically developed COVID-19 vaccine, Nano Covax, will begin Phase 3 of clinical trials in June involving up to 13,000 volunteers.

Illustrative image

This follows promising results seen in the first two phases.

The National Ethics Committee in Biomedical Research under the Ministry of Health said it has agreed in principle for the final phase in human trials of the sub-unit vaccine based on recombinant DNA/protein technology developed by Ho Chi Minh City-based biopharmaceutical company Nanogen.

Researchers need to submit some more documents this week for the ministry to review and officially greenlight the trials.

Phase 3 will be divided into smaller segments  with the first involving some 800-1,000 registered volunteers and will gradually expand to larger groups in future segments. The Vietnam Military Academy in Hanoi and Hung Yen provinces health authorities in the north, along with and HCM City Pasteur Institute and Long An provinces health authorities will help administer the vaccines in volunteers and monitor responses.

The optimal dosage for the phase 3 will be 25mcg. All three dosages of 25mcg, 50mcg, and 75mcg of the vaccine trialled in the first two phases provided largely similar level of immune responses against coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) so the committee chose the lowest dosage to save on materials.

Phase 2 of human trials, involved 554 people including 108 elderly, was completed on April 8 this year but monitoring of the volunteers health for effectiveness and potential side effects could last up to a year. So far the results have been quite promising, the committee said.

The immune response increased by 60 times 35 days after the first shot in some volunteers, and the protection level remains at 34 times the normal level after three months.

All volunteers injected with the jabs produced immune response against the virus.

The vaccine has the capacity to generate neutralising antibodies against the original version of coronavirus first found in Chinas Wuhan as well as mutant variants first identified in South Africa during phase 2 trials, but more studies in phase 3 are needed to clarify how effective it could be against the Indian variant that is wreaking havoc across the northern region of Vietnam in the fourth wave of infections.

After injection, volunteers exhibited symptoms such as pain at the injection point, light fever, muscle aches, joint pain, and fatigue, which are typical post-injection reactions. However they did not require medical intervention.

If things go well, phase 3 trials could conclude by the end of September and commercial production could start soon after.

There have been talks earlier this week about using Nano Covax on a wider scale in case of severe outbreaks, similar to how Russia's Spunit V, the world's earliest COVID-19 vaccine to be approved and still one of the most effective, is administered on general population when data from phase 3 have not been fully available.

Lao dong (Labour) newspaper, citing a reliable source, said that Nano Covax has received millions of dollars in financial donations from a domestic conglomerate for the third phase of trials and eventual inoculation of the country of near 100 million-strong population to achieve vaccination goals within this year, helping to open up the economy and re-enable travel and tourism.

The support also extended to ramping up of production capacity in order to meet the domestic demands as well as possible exports of Nano Covax vaccines.

Nguyen Ngo Quang, Deputy Director of the Department of Science, Technology and Training under the health ministry, said if Vietnam could have its own manufacturing technology domestically then it would be easier to evaluate and adjust the vaccines in cases of new variants.

Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam, 58, head of the National Steering Committee for COVID-19 Prevention and Control, along with Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Pham Cong Tac, 59, received two full doses of Nano Covax as part of the trials.

The price for each dose was projected to be 120,000 VND (5.2 USD). The doses are given intramuscularly with the spacing between each dose about a month (28 days), according to Nanogen.

Another domestic vaccine contender, Covivac by Institute of Vaccines and Biological Medical (IVAC) in Nha Trang city is preparing phase 1 trials data to be reviewed by the health ministry and could start phase 2 around late June-early July if the results are deemed acceptable.

Another locally developed COVID-19 vaccine by Vabiotech is in preclinical trials on animals, and another from Polyvac (Centre for Research and Production of Vaccines and Biologicals, under the health ministry) is still researching in labs.

Polyvac said it is in talks with Russias relevant parties for technology transfer of Sputnik V (already approved for emergency use in Vietnam) for commercial production domestically later this year./.

VNA
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Workforce

Tech can help, but clearance reciprocity is a policy issue

The backlog of security clearance investigations has continued to drop from a 2018 high of 725,000 to a steady state inventory of 200,000, but agencies and contractors continue to struggle with reciprocity issues.

The Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency is in the process of developing the National Background Investigation Services (NBIS) to replace legacy background investigation IT systems. This IT system is part of the new Trusted Workforce 2.0 framework, meant to consolidate the security clearance process and address problems plaguing the process of obtaining initial clearances and moving cleared employees among agencies. It also establishes a continuous vetting process for security clearance holders.

The goal is for DCSA to incorporate all clearances into Trusted Workforce 2.0 "hopefully" by the end of 2023, said William Lietzau, DCSA director, at a May 26 roundtable discussion hosted by Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Va.).

Three million workers are currently enrolled in the current iteration of the Trusted Workforce program, which allows for continuous vetting of clearance holders, said Heather Green, DCSA's director of vetting risk operations.

Trusted Workforce 2.0 will include more data sources for vetting applicants and clearance holders for adverse information, and replace the legacy background investigation system that was the source of the 2015 OPM data breach, Lietzau said. DCSA assumed responsibility for that system, which includes components dating back to 1984, around seven months ago, he said.

The Trusted Workforce 2.0 framework is designed to speed up these processes by eliminating much of the duplication in the investigation processes among agencies by using a program that will allow investigators to use some types of information that've already been collected.

The IT system holding all that information, then, has a lot of potential, DCSA officials said.

Many pointed to continued problems in the area of reciprocity, the process of an agency trusted the security decisions of another agency, allowing employees to move more easily among agencies.

"If we can all eventually get onto a singular system that has all the touchpoints, that will allow much more rapid checking data. Whenever we have a holdup, it's usually because we're reaching out to some agency that doesn't have all of its data put onto the system that we're using," Lietzau explained. "The benefit of NBIS will be that it will have all that data in one place."

The system will, however, be voluntary, with agencies and departments having to opt-in. Marianna Martineau, assistant director for adjudications at DCSA, expressed optimism that agencies would participate.

Several industry participants also emphasized their desire to be involved in the process.

"It will help if we are all on system, but it's very important that when we move into NBIS, that industry be included as a partner in the development of that system because reliability of the data in that system is critical," said Jennie Brackens of SAIC.

Fully solving the reciprocity problem could also take clarifications on reciprocity policy, she said. Many agencies maintain their own specific security and credentialing criteria and don't honor clearances issued by other agencies without additional vetting.

Current policy for reciprocity is relatively narrow and doesn't address additional requirements agencies might layer onto the baseline requirements, confirmed Brian Mazanec, director of Defense Capabilities and Management in the Government Accountability Office.

"I don't know how the continuous vetting process might help with reciprocity unless we have a top-down policy clarification on what is acceptable reciprocity," Brackens said. "We need to have that mutual understanding across the agencies of what is acceptable under the continuous vetting program."

About the Author Natalie Alms is a staff writer at FCW covering the federal workforce. She is a recent graduate of Wake Forest University and has written for the Salisbury (N.C.) Post. Connect with Natalie on Twitter at @AlmsNatalie.



In the meantime, Mazanec also emphasized the need for DOD and OPM to fully secure its existing legacy security clearance IT systems that are going to be used until NBIS is fully online  an issue "as important as ever" in light of increased cyber threats, he said.
Airline SAS gets $361 million loan guarantee from Denmark, Sweden FILE PHOTO: SAS Airbus A320 planes are parked at Copenhagen airport in Kastrup

STOCKHOLM (Reuters) - Sweden and Denmark said on Wednesday they had agreed to offer ailing airline SAS, in which both countries own stakes, a 3 billion Swedish crown ($361 million) loan guarantee.

The COVID-19 pandemic has seen air travel collapse, plunging the industry into crisis and leaving carriers scrambling to secure funds to weather the slump.

SAS said the credit line should be seen as a complement to other ongoing activities to cut costs and strengthen liquidity.

"Market conditions also make it difficult to predict how demand will develop ahead of the important summer season given that customers are increasingly choosing to book their trips on short notice," SAS said in a statement.

Sweden and Denmark will guarantee 1.5 billion crowns each, the two Nordic governments said in separate statements.

"It is still the Government's position that SAS is important for Denmark's accessibility, Danish jobs, companies and the Danish economy in general," the Danish government said, adding that SAS had been hard-hit by the pandemic.

The Swedish state owns 14.8% and the Danish state owns 14.2% of SAS. The guarantee is pending European Union approval.

SAS, which is due to report second-quarter earnings on Thursday, completed a capital raising in late 2020 after a year of deep losses.

($1 = 8.3100 Swedish crowns)

(Reporting by Helena Soderpalm and Johan Ahlander; Editing by Elaine Hardcastle and Alexander Smith)
(Bloomberg) --

Beijings crackdown on its tech giants is fueling a noticeable phenomenon: its opened the spending floodgates.

Chinas largest internet corporations are digging deep into their pockets to open up new avenues of growth as Beijing curtails their most lucrative businesses from fintech to e-commerce. Tencent Holdings Ltd., Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. and Meituan have all warned investors in recent weeks theyre prepared to open their coffers to expand in areas such as cloud computing, autonomous driving and artificial intelligence. The coming deluge promises to transform the internet landscape by funneling capital into fundamental technology and infrastructure -- not coincidentally priority areas for the Communist Party.

Of the three, Beijing-based Meituan was the earliest to throw caution to the wind and also the one most accustomed to sacrificing profits. The food delivery giant sank into the red in the December quarter and warned of further losses, as founder Wang Xing boosted spending on logistics networks and supply chain capacity to bolster his new online grocery ambitions. In April, it raised a record $10 billion to develop advanced solutions such as autonomous delivery vehicles and robotics, days before Chinas monopoly watchdog unveiled a probe into the corporation for alleged antitrust violations.

Meituan, the countrys third-biggest tech corporation by market value, is set to report its March-quarter earnings on Friday. Revenue is expected to reach 35.7 billion yuan ($5.6 billion), rebounding from last years pandemic-era lows, while net loss is projected to more than double from the December quarter to 5.2 billion yuan, according to estimates.

The increased investment for the tech giants is not really something they have a choice over, said He Qi, a fund manager at Huatai Pinebridge Fund Management. The point of the antitrust campaign is in effect to drive these behemoths out of their comfort zone, where they are now just basically rent-seeking off their unchallenged position in their respective businesses.

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The flood of spending comes after the months-long antitrust campaign wiped out hundreds of billions in value from the countrys largest tech firms. After scuppering fintech giant Ant Group Co.s initial public offering and launching a probe into affiliate Alibaba last year, regulators have since introduced new rules governing competition, fintech and data collection. Authorities are also said to be considering setting up a joint venture to oversee the massive amounts of user data collected by private companies.

Those efforts are likely to limit the once-freewheeling internet industrys ability to squash competition, either by buying up promising startups or squeezing out rivals through tactics like forced exclusivity or predatory pricing. The antitrust watchdog in April levied a record $2.8 billion fine on Alibaba and ordered its 34 largest tech corporations to pledge compliance with regulations.

Days later, it announced its probe into Meituan for alleged abuses including forced exclusivity agreements known as pick one from two, the same charge leveled against Alibaba. Chinas food delivery giant has also been accused of exploiting workers, while its community commerce arm was fined for excessive subsidies.

Wangs post of a millennium-old poem, seen by some as a veiled critique of Beijing, added to jitters. Meituan has lost nearly 40% of its market value, more than $130 billion, since its peak in February. The stock sank more than 3% in Hong Kong trading Thursday.

The online behemoths have responded to the antitrust push by pledging to funnel future earnings into new initiatives. Jack Mas flagship e-commerce firm said earlier this month it will invest all incremental profit into technology as well as areas like community commerce in an attempt to move past the antitrust probe. In Tencents case, it promised to invest a bigger portion of profits into sectors like cloud and short videos, and even earmarked billions for so-called social value -- a clear sop to Beijing.

Deep tech is a priority set by the government and Chinese Internet companies are fully aware of it, said Shawn Yang, an analyst with research firm Blue Lotus Capital.

Even before the antitrust crackdown began in earnest last November, technology giants have been adding to investments, albeit in fields like community commerce. Alibaba challenger Pinduoduo Inc. raised $6.1 billion in November to grow its online groceries and agricultural produce businesses. Executives on Wednesday reiterated plans to invest heavily in areas like logistics infrastructure and technology, after reporting quarterly sales more than tripled.

Rivals from Didi to smaller startups like Tencent-backed MissFresh also piled into community commerce, all seeking to take the lead in a market forecast to reach $19 billion this year.

Read more: Alibaba, Meituan Chase $14 Billion Group-Buyers Arena

Were getting to the point where the space is getting crowded, Jason Hsu, founder and chief executive officer of Rayliant Global Advisors, said in a recent interview with Bloomberg Television. Everyone is moving roughly in the same direction whether you are Meituan, Pinduoduo, Alibaba or Tencent. Youre all eyeing about the same space.

In March, Premier Li Keqiang singled out key areas in which to achieve major breakthroughs in core technologies, including high-end semiconductors, computer processors and cloud computing -- areas in which American firms now hold sway. Leaders in Beijing have also pledged to drive research into artificial intelligence and faster fifth-generation networks.

Instead of getting obsessed with a new service, internet giants with immense data and advanced algorithms should shoulder greater responsibility, aim higher and do more in tech innovation, the Peoples Daily, a Communist Party mouthpiece, said in a December commentary.

Meituan, for its part, has been cultivating autonomous delivery, with more than 35,000 grocery orders being delivered so far in Beijing and said it plans to invest part of the $10 billion raised last month into drone technology.

The Chinese government expects domestic internet giants to play a bigger role in helping the country achieve tech self-sufficiency, said Shen Meng, a director at Beijing-based boutique investment bank Chanson & Co. After all, advancing fundamental technologies require massive capital and manpower. In a country which still lacks a mature venture investment ecosystem, deep-pocketed big tech is in a better position than startups to lead that breakthrough.

(Updates with Meituan shares in eighth paragraph, Pinduoduo comments on investment in 12th paragraph)

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com

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2021 Bloomberg L.P.
Circus Buffet will Serve Breakfast, Brunch and Dinner Daily

LAS VEGAS, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Circus Circus Las Vegas today announced Circus Buffet will reopen to serve guests delectable American comfort food daily for breakfast, brunch and dinner. Starting Saturday, May 29, Circus Buffet will offer a variety of American food including cooked-to-order omelets.

Opened everyday of the week, Circus Buffet serves breakfast and brunch from 7a.m.  2p.m. and dinner from 4:30p.m. to 10p.m. Weekday, weekend and holiday buffet prices are as followed:

Weekday

Adult $19.99 Brunch | $21.99 Dinner

Child $14.99 Brunch | $16.99 Dinner

Weekend

Adult $22.99 Brunch | $24.99 Dinner

Child $15.99 Brunch | $17.99 Dinner

Holiday

Adult $23.99 Brunch | $25.99 Dinner

Child $15.99 Brunch | $17.99 Dinner

*Ages four to 10 years are considered a child. Children three and under are no charge.

Known as the Strip's most family-friendly resort for more than 50 years, Circus Circus Las Vegas features iconic circus acts and games, the only coin-operation slot machines on the Las Vegas Strip and The Steak House, a multiple award-winning restaurant.

About Circus Circus Las Vegas

Circus Circus Las Vegas is a privately owned hotel and casino that offers dining, shopping, entertainment and more than 101,000 square feet of gaming space. A family favorite Las Vegas resort since its inception, Circus Circus provides affordable rates for its nearly 4,000 guest rooms in its lodge, tower rooms, suites and RV Park, and family-fun activities ranging from the thrills of The Adventuredome theme park to live circus acts right on the casino floor.

For information visit www.circuscircus.com, or follow the property on social media: Facebook: Facebook.com/CircusCircus; and Twitter, Instagram @CircusVegas

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SOURCE Circus Circus Las Vegas
LAFAYETTE, Colo., May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Colorado Biolabs, Inc. (CBL) and MFB Fertility, Inc. (MFB) are pleased to announce a strategic alliance granting MFB Fertility US distribution rights to Proferrin Heme Iron Polypeptide, a unique form of iron, for future Proov brand products.

Colorado Biolabs, MFB Fertility sign distribution agreement

"As the leader in urine PdG testing to confirm ovulation, we believe MFB Fertility has a great track record of bringing innovative products to market. We look forward to helping their group bring a highly effective iron supplement to Proov customers" says Colorado Biolabs CEO Adam Kashenberg.

Amy Beckley, Founder and CEO of MFB Fertility, added "this partnership allows us to continue our mission as a woman led company to provide the most relevant products for women in addition to our ovulation tests and PdG tests"

CBL's Proferrin brand HIP has demonstrated the ability to increase serum iron up to 23x greater than does a traditional iron salt on a mg. per mg. basis.[1] This allows for excellent iron supplementation using far less iron, leading to a stellar GI side effect profile. Additionally, HIP absorption does not require acidification via addition of Vitamin C. This fact is important because co-administration of Iron and Vitamin C have been associated with oxidative stress in the gastric mucosa, which can lead to ulceration. [2]

Proferrin brand HIP is manufactured in the United States by Colorado Biolabs, Inc. and Proferrin iron supplements were introduced into the U.S market in 2001. Proferrin is available in the US, Canada, UAE, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines.

MFB Fertility Inc. launched Proov in 2018. Its FDA-approved at-home test measures the presence of progesterone metabolite PdG in urine to help a woman confirm ovulation; low progesterone is the number one cause of infertility and preventable miscarriage. Proov is available at Target, Amazon, and at http://www.Proovtest.com

For more information about Proferrin and Colorado Biolabs, Inc., visit http://www.proferrin.com.

To learn more about MFB Fertility, please visit https://proovtest.com

Story continues

1  Seligman, P.A., et al, Nutrition Research, 2000. 20(9):1279-86.

2  Fisher, A. EO and Naughton, D.P., Nutrition Journal 2004, 3:2

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SOURCE Colorado Biolabs
LISBON, May 27 (Reuters) - The European Union's proposed sanctions on Belarus will target companies close to Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Estonia's foreign minister said on Thursday.

"The companies which are close to the Belarusian regime," will have sanctions imposed, Eva-Maria Liimets told reporters as she arrived for an informal meeting with her EU counterparts. (Reporting by Victoria Waldersee, Writing by Robin Emmott)
SAN FRANCISCO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A new market study published by Global Industry Analysts Inc., (GIA) the premier market research company, today released its report titled "Leisure Boats - Global Market Trajectory & Analytics". The report presents fresh perspectives on opportunities and challenges in a significantly transformed post COVID-19 marketplace.

Global Leisure Boats Market

FACTS AT A GLANCE

Edition: 17; Released: January 2021

Executive Engagements: 2118

Companies: 247 Players covered include AB Volvo; Avon Boats; Azimut Benetti Group; Baja Marine; Bavaria Yachtbau; Bennington Marine LLC,; Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) Inc.; Brunswick Corporation; Catalina Yachts; Chaparral Boats Inc; Farr Yacht Design, Ltd.; Ferretti S.P.A.; Fountain Powerboats, Inc.; Godfrey Pontoon Group; Groupe Beneteau; Johnson Outdoors Watercraft, Inc.; Mahindra Odyssea; Ranger Boats; Sunseeker International Limited; The MasterCraft Boat Company; TRACKER BOATS; Yamaha Motor Company Limited and Others.

Coverage: All major geographies and key segments

Segments: Type (Motorized/Power Boats, Non-Motorized Boats); Segment (Used Boats, New Boats, Monitoring Equipment)

Geographies: World; USA; Canada; Japan; China; Europe; France; Germany; Italy; UK; Spain; Russia; Rest of Europe; Asia-Pacific; Australia; India; South Korea; Rest of Asia-Pacific; Latin America; Argentina; Brazil; Mexico; Rest of Latin America; Middle East; Africa.

Complimentary Project Preview - This is an ongoing global program. Preview our research program before you make a purchase decision. We are offering a complimentary access to qualified executives driving strategy, business development, sales & marketing, and product management roles at featured companies. Previews provide deep insider access to business trends; competitive brands; domain expert profiles; and market data templates and much more. You may also build your own bespoke report using our MarketGlass Platform which offers thousands of data bytes without an obligation to purchase our report. Preview Registry

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ABSTRACT-

Global Leisure Boats Market to Reach $44.5 Billion by 2026

Leisure boats are recreational boats intended for recreation, pleasure and tourism activity. The global market for these boats is bolstered by increasing disposable income and expansion of the tourism industry across emerging economies. The market is gaining from increasing participation in competitive and recreational boating activity coupled with technological advances and introduction of connected boats. First-time boaters and lifelong enthusiasts are expected to continue driving demand for leisure boat market. Demand is also boosted by consumer attention on luxury options and the ongoing trend to own accommodations and vacation homes near water-bodies. The introduction of leisure boats with advanced features such as digital dashboards, digital throttles and joystick controls is driving first-time sales.

Amid the COVID-19 crisis, the global market for Leisure Boats estimated at US$35 Billion in the year 2020, is projected to reach a revised size of US$44.5 Billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 4% over the analysis period. Motorized/Power Boats, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is projected to record 4.9% CAGR and reach US$28.1 Billion by the end of the analysis period. After a thorough analysis of the business implications of the pandemic and its induced economic crisis, growth in the Non-Motorized Boats segment is readjusted to a revised 2.6% CAGR for the next 7-year period. Non-motorized boats enjoy high acceptance among customers in different income and age groups owing to their easy availability and diverse options in terms of sizes and shapes. Growth in the segment is supported by affordable price points and increasing use of canoes and kayaks in adventurous water sports.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at $15.1 Billion in 2021, While China is Forecast to Reach $4.3 Billion by 2026

The Leisure Boats market in the U.S. is estimated at US$15.1 Billion in the year 2021. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$4.3 Billion by the year 2026 trailing a CAGR of 5.7% over the analysis period. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at 2.8% and 3.7% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 3.3% CAGR. Leisure boast are finding increasing acceptance across countries or regions with vast coastlines and waterways. Growth in the US market is led by increasing acceptance of recreational watercraft and growing popularity of various marine recreational activities such as cruising and boating. Factors such as affordability, terrain and environment are playing a vital role in driving the European market. Rising disposable income and spending on recreational activities presents immense growth opportunities in Asia-Pacific region. More

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Our platform is free for qualified executives and is accessible from our website www.StrategyR.com or via our just released mobile application on iOS or Android

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CONTACTS:

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Global Industry Analysts, Inc.

Phone: 1-408-528-9966

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Email: ZA@StrategyR.com

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SOURCE Global Industry Analysts, Inc.
SAN FRANCISCO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A new market study published by Global Industry Analysts Inc., (GIA) the premier market research company, today released its report titled "Medical Gloves - Global Market Trajectory & Analytics". The report presents fresh perspectives on opportunities and challenges in a significantly transformed post COVID-19 marketplace.

Global Medical Gloves Market

FACTS AT A GLANCE

Edition: 16; Released: May 2021

Executive Engagements: 12188

Companies: 240 Players covered include Ansell Healthcare Products, LLC; B. Braun Melsungen AG; Cardinal Health, Inc.; Cypress Medical Products, LLC; Halyard Health, Inc.; Hartalega Holdings Bhd; Kossan Rubber Industries BHD; Molnlycke Health Care AB; Paul Hartmann AG; Rubberex Corporation (M) Berhad; Semperit AG Holding; Shijiazhuang Hongray Group; Supermax Corporation Berhad; Top Glove Corporation Bhd; Vulkan Medical AS and Others.

Coverage: All major geographies and key segments

Segments: Segment (Examination Gloves, Surgical Gloves); Category (Powder-Free, Powdered); End-Use (Hospitals & Clinics, Diagnostic Centers, Other End-Uses)

Geographies: World; USA; Canada; Japan; China; Europe; France; Germany; Italy; UK; Spain; Russia; Rest of Europe; Asia-Pacific; Australia; India; South Korea; Rest of Asia-Pacific; Latin America; Argentina; Brazil; Mexico; Rest of Latin America; Middle East; Iran; Israel; Saudi Arabia; UAE; Rest of Middle East; Africa.

Complimentary Project Preview - This is an ongoing global program. Preview our research program before you make a purchase decision. We are offering a complimentary access to qualified executives driving strategy, business development, sales & marketing, and product management roles at featured companies. Previews provide deep insider access to business trends; competitive brands; domain expert profiles; and market data templates and much more. You may also build your own bespoke report using our MarketGlass Platform which offers thousands of data bytes without an obligation to purchase our report. Preview Registry

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ABSTRACT-

Global Medical Gloves Market to Reach $64.7 Billion by 2026

Medical gloves are indispensable products in the area of medicine, whose primary function is to protect healthcare personnel as well as patients from various infections. The criticality of medical gloves continues to rise in wake of growing spread of infectious diseases, increasing incidence of hospital-acquired infections, and growing awareness on safety. Persistent increase in incidence of infectious and chronic diseases, rising concerns over personal safety and sanitation and strict regulations in place pertinent to the use of personal protective equipment are fueling demand for medical gloves. Also driving growth is the development of healthcare infrastructure in developing nations and the increase in number of hospitals and other care facilities. Currently, the medical gloves market is witnessing incremental growth driven by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, a highly infectious disease that is necessitating the use of personal protection including gloves and masks to prevent the spread of virus. Sustained prevalence of global epidemics such as SARs, Bird Flu, Dengue, Ebola and Zika; and bioterrorism threat, would continue to scale the demand for disposable medical gloves.

Amid the COVID-19 crisis, the global market for Medical Gloves estimated at US$30.9 Billion in the year 2020, is projected to reach a revised size of US$64.7 Billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 12.4% over the analysis period. Examination Gloves, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is projected to record 11.2% CAGR and reach US$42.3 Billion by the end of the analysis period. After a thorough analysis of the business implications of the pandemic and its induced economic crisis, growth in the Surgical Gloves segment is readjusted to a revised 14.4% CAGR for the next 7-year period. Examination gloves are widely used due to their extensive use by medical practitioners during patient examinations. As the number of infectious diseases continue to increase around the world, the demand for examination gloves is on the rise. Surgical gloves, used while performing surgical procedures, are witnessing growing demand led by the rise in surgeries in both developed and developing regions. Growing prevalence of chronic diseases and other medical conditions that contribute to the need for surgical interventions is giving impetus to the market.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at $13.7 Billion in 2021, While China is Forecast to Reach $12.2 Billion by 2026

The Medical Gloves market in the U.S. is estimated at US$13.7 Billion in the year 2021. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$12.2 Billion by the year 2026 trailing a CAGR of 14.6% over the analysis period. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at 10.4% and 11.4% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 11.3% CAGR. Demand is high in US and Europe due to well-established healthcare infrastructure, standards and regulations, with a sizable number of clinics, hospitals and medical institutions. High level of awareness and advancement in medical technologies are other factors supporting high consumption. Several emerging markets across the world are seeing demand for medical gloves continue to rise driven by growing affluence, increasing incidence of various diseases and as a result their treatment, rising volume of surgical procedures, improvements in healthcare services, government regulation and rising awareness on safety and prevention. More

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Japan wants TSMC, Sony to build 20 nanometre chip plant -Nikkan Kogyo FILE PHOTO: Logo of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC), in Hsinchu

TOKYO (Reuters) -Japan's government wants Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd and Sony Group to invest 1 trillion yen ($9.2 billion) to build the country's first 20 nanometre chip plant, the Nikkan Kogyo newspaper reported on Wednesday.

The potential factory would be built close to Sony's image sensor plant in southwest Japan, according to a proposal floated by Japan's trade and industry ministry, the report said. It did not provide further details on the proposal or when it was made.

Sony CEO Kenichiro Yoshida declined to comment on the report at a strategy briefing on Wednesday but said "stable chip supplies are important for Japan to maintain its international competitiveness."

TSMC declined to comment. A ministry spokesman said the report was not true but declined to elaborate.

Bitter trade tension between United States and China has resulted in concern that too much of the world's chip production is located in Taiwan as well as contributing to a global chip shortage that has hit automakers particularly hard.

Japan like the United States is looking for ways to boost semiconductor production at home in a bid to ensure its companies can secure the critical components.

Japan's most advanced semiconductor plant is a 40 nanometre chip factory operated by Renesas Electronics Corp near Tokyo. A 20 nanometre chip is more powerful as it packs more transistors into a smaller space.

U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer this month unveiled legislation to approve $52 billion to significantly boost U.S. semiconductor chip production and research over five years.

(Reporting by Tim Kelly, Ben Blanchard and Ritsuko Shimizu; Editing by Edwina Gibbs)
(Bloomberg) -- JD Logistics Inc. surged in Hong Kongs gray market trading, after its initial public offering was more than 700 times subscribed by retail investors in the citys second-largest float this year.

Shares of the delivery arm of Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com Inc. rose to as high as HK$51.95 on an over-the-counter platform operated by Phillip Securities Group ahead of its Friday debut. That marks a 29% gain from its offering price of HK$40.36, which was at the lower end of its marketed range.

The retail tranche of the companys $3.2 billion share sale was 715.6 times subscribed, making it the third most popular IPO in the city with a size larger than $1 billion, after offerings by Kuaishou Technology and Nongfu Spring Co. The Chinese video-streaming platform operator surged 161% while the bottled water producer jumped 54% on their debuts. JD Logistics institutional offer was about 11 times subscribed.

JD Logistics stock offering comes as sentiment in the citys IPO market has cooled with the benchmark Hang Seng slumping into a correction in March. About half of stocks that debuted between March and May fell on their first day of trade, while April saw just three listings, the least in nine months, Bloomberg-compiled data show.

JD Logistics attracted seven cornerstone investors to its offering, including SoftBank Vision Fund, Temasek Holdings Pte, Blackstone Group Inc. and Tiger Global.

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CHICAGO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the new market research report, "Large Format Display Market with COVID-19 Impact Analysis by Offering, Type, Technology (Direct-View LED, LED-backlit LCD), Size, Brightness, Installation Location, Application (Retail, Hospitality, Sports, Education), Region - Global Forecast to 2026", published by MarketsandMarkets, the global Large Format Display Market will grow to USD 18.6 billion by 2026 (forecast year) from USD 13.1 billion in 2021 (estimated year), at a CAGR of 7.2% between 2021 to 2026. The key drivers fueling the growth of this market include the high adoption of signage and interactive displays by end users from the commercial sector, technological innovations and advancements related to large format displays, surged demand for 4K and 8K high-resolution commercial-grade large-screen displays from the education, healthcare, and sports & entertainment verticals, and increased investments by emerging economies in real estate and public infrastructure development projects.

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The direct-view fine-pixel LED segment to register higher CAGR during the forecast period

The market for large format display based on direct-view fine-pixel LED technology is expected to exhibit the highest CAGR during the forecast period owing to the benefits offered by them, including high brightness, clarity, easy installation, scalability, wide viewing angles, long operational life. These benefits make them perfectly suitable for use in both indoor and outdoor environments. Moreover, the commercial development of pre-configured all-in-one direct-view LED displays based on fine-pixel LED technology available in screen sizes of more than 100 inches from major display manufacturers is expected to drive the market growth of these displays in the coming years.

The indoor installation segment to hold the highest market share in 2026

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The indoor installation segment of the large format display market, by installation location, is projected to register the higher CAGR during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to the high penetration of large format displays in the retail, education, corporate and broadcast, and hospitality applications. The high demand for indoor displays in these applications is mainly due to the increasing adoption of immersive and highly interactive display technologies. Further, the rising deployment of video wall displays in command and control centers and other such public places in indoor settings has led to an increase in the market growth of large format displays for indoor environments. The growing adoption of self-service touch-based kiosks, which allow customers in the retail application to browse digital products and make purchases, is expected to accelerate the installation of large format displays in indoor environments.

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APAC is projected to hold the largest share of the large format display market in 2026

APAC is expected to hold the largest share of the digital signage market in 2026. The increasing commercialization of 5G technology in China, South Korea, Japan, and other countries of APAC, along with the ongoing technological advancements in the wireless communication infrastructure, is expected to spur the demand for connected devices and related technologies. This could drive the demand for large format displays used in commercial, institutional, infrastructure, and industrial applications.

Samsung Electronics (South Korea), LG Electronics (South Korea), Sharp Corporation (Japan), Leyard Optoelectronic (US), Sony Corporation (Japan), Barco (Belgium), Panasonic Corporation (Japan), Shanghai Goodview Electronics (China), AU Optronics (Taiwan), Unilumin (China), and ViewSonic (US) are the key players in the global large format display market. These players are increasingly undertaking strategies such as product launches and development, expansions, partnerships, joint ventures, collaborations, and acquisitions to increase their market share.

Related Reports:

Collaboration Display Market with COVID-19 Impact Analysis by Offering (Hardware, Software and Services), Screen Size (Up to 65 Inches, above 65 Inches), Resolution (1080P, 4K/UHD), End User, Application, and Geography - Global Forecast to 2026

Digital Signage Market with COVID-19 Impact Analysis by Offering (Hardware, Software, Services), Product, Display Size, Installation Location, Application (Retail, Healthcare, Hospitality, BFSI, Education), and Geography - Global Forecast to 2026

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Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 26, 2021) - NEPTUNE DIGITAL ASSETS CORP. (TSXV: NDA) (OTC: NPPTF) FSE: 1NW) ("Neptune" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a hashrate management agreement with Luxor Technology Corporation (Luxor). In this partnership, Neptune and Luxor will jointly work on hardware sourcing, mining machine hosting, and physical and virtual management of rigs, while utilizing Luxors proprietary mining pool technologies. This agreement enables Neptune to grow its North American Bitcoin mining operations by outsourcing critical hands-on expertise in order to keep internal costs and headcount as low as possible. The Company expects additional ASIC mining machines to come online through this partnership in the next 90 days, while it carefully navigates ASIC price swings during volatile Bitcoin moves.

We are pleased to launch our initiative with Luxor in the United States and look to grow that relationship and our associated mining operations in the coming weeks and months, stated Cale Moodie, Neptunes Chief Executive Officer. We are excited to leverage Luxors deep expertise in Bitcoin mining, ASIC markets, hashrate management, and pool services to build a highly profitable mining program. Neptune is positioned extremely well given $40M in capital was raised towards the near-term market top and now we can secure assets at much lower prices. The market timing has worked in our favor and we reiterate to our shareholders, that in this sector, patience pays off.

Luxor is very excited to work with Neptune on growing its mining operations. Neptunes professional team will combine with our experience in hashrate management and pool services to allow us to maximize hashrate earnings, creating a mutually beneficial relationship, stated Ethan Vera, Luxor COO.

At the time of this release, Neptunes staking operations currently generates $360,000 per month and Neptune currently holds $47.1M in cash and digital assets. The Company now holds 100 BTC, 270 ETH, 141,000 ATOM, 2,055 DASH, 1,439,481 FTM, and positions in LTC, DOT, BCH, Stellar, NEO, OMG, and QTUM; as well as its investment in the Protocol Quant Fund. The Company has 298 ASIC S17 Bitcoin mining machines currently hosted with Link Global Technologies.

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About Neptune Digital Assets Corp.

Neptune Digital Assets aims to be a cryptocurrency leader with diversified assets and cryptocurrency operations across the digital asset ecosystem including bitcoin mining, tokens, proof-of-stake cryptocurrencies, decentralized finance (DeFi) and associated blockchain technologies.

About Luxor Technology Corporation

Luxor is a fast-growing technology company that is shaping the future of hashrate as a commodity, building the next-generation digital pipelines for computer power. Luxor is backed by notable investors such as Argo Blockchain, Bitnomial, Celsius Network, Routemaster Capital, and more. Luxor also runs Hashrate Index, the leading crypto-mining data website.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Cale Moodie, President and CEO

Neptune Digital Assets Corp.

1-800-545-0941

www.neptunedigitalassets.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains certain "forward looking statements" and certain "forward-looking information" as defined under applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements and information can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "expect", "intend", "estimate", "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "plans", "proposes" or similar terminology. Forward-looking statements and information include, but are not limited to, the anticipated total hash rate of the S17 Bitcoin mining machines; the completion of Pure Digital Power Corp.'s renewable powered Bitcoin mining facility; the future scaling of the Company's Bitcoin mining operations; the Company's ability to grow and optimize its proof of stake operations; the Company's future earnings and operating costs; the Company's future growth in total assets; the Company's strategy to purchase crypto currency and optimize its crypto portfolio; the Company's ability effectively dollar cost average its purchases of crypto currency; and the future outlook of the crypto currency market generally. Forward-looking statements and information are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions that, while believed by management to be reasonable, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties, and contingencies. Forward-looking statements and information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of the Company to control or predict, that may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out herein, including but not limited to: the inherent risks involved in the cryptocurrency and general securities markets; the Company's ability to successfully mine digital currency; revenue of the Company may not increase as currently anticipated, or at all; the Company may not be able to profitably liquidate its current digital currency inventory, or at all; a decline in digital currency prices may have a significant negative impact on the Company's operations; the volatility of digital currency prices; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future; the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses, currency fluctuations; regulatory restrictions, liability, competition, loss of key employees and other related risks and uncertainties. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking information except as required by applicable law. Such forward-looking information represents management's best judgment based on information currently available. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual future results may vary materially. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85309
Recipient of the 2020 Turnbull-Tator Award in Spinal Cord Injury and Concussion Research

Dr. Steve Lacroix, Professor in the Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine at Universite Laval and Director of the Neurosciences Axis at the CHU de QuebecUniversite Laval Research Center.

Dr. Steve Lacroix, Professor in the Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine at Universite Laval and Director of the Neurosciences Axis at the CHU de QuebecUniversite Laval Research Center.

MONTREAL, May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brain Canada and the Barbara Turnbull Foundation for Spinal Cord Research are pleased to announce that Dr. Steve Lacroix has been selected by an international panel to receive the 2020 Turnbull-Tator Award in Spinal Cord Injury and Concussion Research. Dr. Lacroix is being recognized for his publication Microglia are an essential component of the neuroprotective scar that forms after spinal cord injury, published in Nature Communications in 2019.



Since 2001, in honour of Barbara Turnbull, Brain Canada and the Barbara Turnbull Foundation have been partnering to support the need for exceptional research in the area of spinal cord and/or brain injury to improve the lives of those affected. Co-sponsored by the foundations, the Turnbull-Tator Award recognizes an outstanding publication by a Canadian researcher in the field. Selected based on the innovation and impact of the research and its findings, the recipient of the Award is provided with a $50,000 grant to continue their research and contribute towards advancing the research area.

Barbara was a dedicated advocate for raising awareness and drawing public attention to the importance of recognizing and supporting excellence in Canadian-based research in areas relevant to spinal cord injury remediation and concussion assessment and treatment, says Gary Goldberg, a director of the Barbara Turnbull Foundation for Spinal Cord Research. It is a privilege to carry out her legacy through the Barbara Turnbull Foundation as she continues to be an inspiration for those working to make a difference in this field.

Nominated by Dr. Serge Rivest, Dr. Lacroix is a leading Canadian neuroscientist with more than 15 years of experience in spinal cord research. His work focuses on protecting neurons following injury and promoting spinal cord regeneration and repair.

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I am humbled and grateful to accept this award in honour of pioneers who have dedicated their lives to research in the field of spinal cord injury, says Dr. Lacroix, Professor in the Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine at Universite Laval and Director of the Neurosciences Axis at the CHU de QuebecUniversite Laval Research Center. Collaboration has been a huge factor in this achievement, as I would not have been able to publish on my own. I consider myself lucky to have worked with brilliant Canadian colleagues Dr. Molly Shoichet at the University of Toronto, Dr. Marie-Eve Tremblay now at the University of Victoria, and a team of great students and research assistants who all played important roles.

In the award-winning publication, Dr. Lacroix and his team use animal models to better understand the role of microglia  a type of immune cell found in the brain and spinal cord. They outline its effects in preventing neuronal death after a spinal cord injury and containing the spread of injury, thanks to what they have coined as the microglial scar. In addition, this paper has shown that a boost in the protective function of microglia could lead to improved recovery following injury.

Our sincere congratulations to Dr. Lacroix and his team, says Dr. Viviane Poupon, Brain Canada President and CEO. This publication is transformative for the research community and is the kind of high-quality and rigorous research that will change how spinal cord injury is studied while accelerating discoveries for treatments and recovery.

The research that Dr. Lacroix and his team are conducting bring us all one step closer to achieving Barbaras dream of improving the lives of people affected by life-altering injuries, says Dr. Charles Tator, Professor of Neurosurgery at the University of Toronto and Scientist at the Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network in Toronto. I feel very privileged to have known Barbara and witnessed her infectious positivity and advocacy. She believed that peoples lives could be made better by science, and this is the essence of the award in our names.

It is currently estimated that there are 85,000 people with spinal cord injury in Canada, with 4,500 new cases each year. These numbers are expected to rise over the next two decades due to Canadas aging population.

This funding from Brain Canada and the Barbara Turnbull Foundation is really essential for us to remain competitive internationally and develop innovative ways to understand something as complex as spinal cord repair, said Dr. Lacroix. My goal is to deliver the best research possible and hopefully inspire the next generation of Canadian scientists so they can shape the future of spinal cord injury research.

This project has been made possible with the financial support of Health Canada, through the Canada Brain Research Fund, an innovative partnership between the Government of Canada (through Health Canada) and Brain Canada, and the Barbara Turnbull Foundation for Spinal Cord Research.

About the Barbara Turnbull Foundation for Spinal Cord Research

The initial purpose of the Foundation was to encourage the public to recognize and financially support internationally esteemed research being done in Canada in the field of neuroscience, particularly as it relates to the remediation of spinal cord injuries. More recently, the Foundation has expanded its area of interest to include both spinal cord and brain injuries, including concussions. Great advances have been made in neuroscience, and the driving force that encouraged Barbara Turnbull to write her autobiography Looking in the Mirror was the realization that these advances may make the goal of regaining function in the damaged nervous system attainable. Through continued research, there is the possibility of new discoveries which may result in repair or regeneration of the spinal cord and brain after injury. Successful remediation will improve the quality of life of those who have been affected by neurotrauma, as well as reduce the ongoing costs of providing associated care and support.

Based on a synergistic approach that recognizes excellence in collaborative research in Canada in the field of neuroscience, the mission of the Foundation is to enhance public awareness of the need to financially support this vision, to develop strategic cooperative initiatives with other institutions and foundations with similar interest, such as Brain Canada, and to fund the highest quality research in spinal cord and brain injury being conducted in Canada.

About Brain Canada

Brain Canada is a national non-profit organization that enables and supports excellent, innovative, paradigm-changing brain research in Canada. It plays a unique and invaluable role as the national convener of the brain research community. Brain Canada understands that better insight into how the brain works contributes to the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure of disorders of the brain, thereby improving the health outcomes and quality of life of all Canadians. To learn more, please visit braincanada.ca.

About the Turnbull-Tator Award

In 2001, the Barbara Turnbull Foundation, Brain Canada, and CIHRs Institute of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Addiction established a partnership to recognize and support excellent brain research in the area of spinal cord injury. In 2019, the Barbara Turnbull Foundation for Spinal Cord Research and Brain Canada expanded the scope of the Award to include traumatic brain injury and concussion research, and to reposition the award to recognize a recent publication that significantly impacts those fields. Accordingly, the name of the Award was changed to reflect the close relationship, sense of common purpose, and aligned missions of both Barbara Turnbull and her neurosurgeon, Dr. Charles Tator, to promote awareness of the impact of spinal cord injury and its prevention, research into its treatment, and a better understanding of the nature, diagnosis, and treatment of concussion and traumatic brain injury. To learn more about the history of the Turnbull-Tator Award, click here.

Applications for the Turnbull-Tator Award were reviewed by members of an international peer review panel chaired by Dr. Charles Tator and composed of experts with experience in the relevant field(s) of spinal cord and/or brain injury research. Based on the reviewers' scores and panel discussion, the review panel recommended to the Barbara Turnbull Foundation and Brain Canada the top-ranked publication to receive the Award.

For more information :

Melissa Arauz

Brain Canada

melissa.arauz@braincanada.ca

514-377-6461

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1d70e121-7291-489d-ba36-810227d5bf42




Asia Pacific College expands computing and IT curriculum to with OutSystems as the platform for teaching modern mobile application development

MANILA, Philippines, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- OutSystems, a leading modern application platform, today announced that it is integrating its platform with Asia Pacific College's School of Computing and Information Technologies curriculum. All second- and third-year students will learn modern application development entirely on the OutSystems platform.

OutSystems Logo (PRNewsfoto/OutSystems)

OutSystems has been in place with the School of Computing and Information Technologies as part of their application development and project-based learning capstone curriculum. With OutSystems, students are learning everything from software development theory to building full fledged applications.

"OutSystems is thrilled about our deepening relationship with Asia Pacific College," said Mark Weaser, APAC Vice President of OutSystems. "As a technology firm firmly embedded in the Asia Pacific region, we're cognizant of both the shortage of developers within the industry and the need to learn modern application development skills. Integrating our platform into the IT curriculum can help ensure that there are skilled developers in the workforce to meet the demands of business, particularly user and customer experience is central to business success. We are happy to expand our relationship with Asia Pacific College and continue empowering new developers and talents across academia."

The full integration of the OutSystems platform into the Asia Pacific College curriculum is an extension of an ongoing relationship. Students recently used OutSystems to build a variety of applications. The College's project-based learning approach ensures a hands-on experience from the beginning, using OutSystems to build applications that solve real-life problems. After completing the module, students are given the opportunity to achieve OutSystems developer certifications.

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"Our students' positive experience with the OutSystems platform was the factor behind us integrating it fully into our curriculum,'' said Rhea Valbuena, Executive Director at Asia Pacific College's School of Computing and Information Technologies. "Our focus is to educate the next generation of developers with the skills required to address the IT talent crunch in the Philippines and beyond. Our students can look forward to developing and honing their skills so they're prepared for outstanding career opportunities ahead."

Asia Pacific College also has industry partnerships with organisations like SM Development Corporation, SM Retail, and other partner Business Process Outsourcing companies where students can go for internships and training programs. Some graduates have even gone on to secure full-time positions at these firms.

"It is important for students studying technology to immerse themselves in platforms and technologies like OutSystems so they can be more productive, and also better cater to dynamic business demands. Institutions like Asia Pacific College will continue to play vital roles in adopting such modern application development technologies and teaching prospective students on how to fully utilize them," said Roselle Wednesday Gardon, Computer Science Program Director.

Students keen on enrolling into Asia Pacific College's School of Computing and Information Technologies can do so at https://www.apc.edu.ph/online-application/

About OutSystems

About OutSystems - OutSystems was founded in 2001 with the mission to give every organization the power to innovate through software. The OutSystems modern application platform's high productivity, connected, and AI-assisted tools help developers rapidly build and deploy a full range of applications anywhere the organization requires. With more than 435,000 community members, more than 1,500 employees, 350 partners, and active customers in 87 countries and across 22 industries, OutSystems has achieved global scale while helping organizations change the way they develop applications. Visit us at www.outsystems.com or follow us on Twitter @OutSystems or LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/outsystems .

About Asia Pacific College



Asia Pacific College (APC) is the educational partnership of SM Foundation and IBM Philippines. APC is the only Higher Education Institution (HEI) strong in industry-academia linkages across the curriculum: with industry experience infused in content and industry experts as industry professors, full-time 6-month internship, and project-based learning as the predominant teaching/learning methodology. The aim of APC is to produce highly skilled professionals who can meet the standards of business and industry. APC is continuously upgrading its curriculum with the infusion of industry badges and certification to enhance employability and productivity of its graduates. For more information, visit https://www.apc.edu.ph.

SOURCE OutSystems
HOUSTON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Quanta Services, Inc. (NYSE: PWR) announced today that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend to stockholders of $0.06 per share. The dividend is payable on July 15, 2021, to stockholders of record as of July 1, 2021.

Quanta Services Logo. (PRNewsFoto/Quanta Services, Inc.)

About Quanta Services

Quanta Services is a leading specialized contracting services company, delivering comprehensive infrastructure solutions for the utility, communications, pipeline and energy industries. Quanta's comprehensive services include designing, installing, repairing and maintaining energy and communications infrastructure. With operations throughout the United States, Canada, Australia and select other international markets, Quanta has the manpower, resources and expertise to safely complete projects that are local, regional, national or international in scope. For more information, visit www.quantaservices.com.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release (and any oral statements regarding the subject matter of this press release) contains forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the "safe harbor" from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to expectations regarding the declaration, amount or timing of any future dividends; expectations regarding Quanta's business or financial outlook; and Quanta's ability to deliver increased value or return capital to stockholders; as well as statements reflecting expectations, intentions, assumptions or beliefs about future events and other statements that do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, involve or rely on a number of risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that are difficult to predict or are beyond our control, and reflect management's beliefs and assumptions based on information available at the time the statements are made. We caution you that actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed, implied or forecasted by our forward-looking statements and that any or all of our forward-looking statements may turn out to be inaccurate or incorrect. Forward-looking statements can be affected by inaccurate assumptions and by known or unknown risks and uncertainties , including, among others, market conditions; the effects of industry, economic, financial or political conditions outside of the control of Quanta, quarterly variations in operating results, liquidity, financial condition, cash flows, capital requirements, reinvestment opportunities or other financial results; the severity, magnitude and duration of the COVID-19 pandemic; trends and growth opportunities in relevant markets; requirements relating to dividends under Delaware law and the credit agreement for Quanta's senior credit facility; and other risks and uncertainties detailed in Quanta's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2020, Quanta's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended Mar. 31, 2021 and any other documents that Quanta files with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). For a discussion of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, investors are urged to refer to Quanta's documents filed with the SEC that are available through the company's website at www.quantaservices.com or through the SEC's Electronic Data Gathering and Analysis Retrieval System (EDGAR) at www.sec.gov. Should one or more of these risks materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are current only as of this date. Quanta does not undertake and expressly disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Quanta further expressly disclaims any written or oral statements made by any third party regarding the subject matter of this press release.

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Investors - Kip Rupp, CFA, IRC

Quanta Services, Inc.

(713) 341-7260

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North Iowa Municipal Electric Cooperative Association (NIMECA) enters into a long-term agreement to purchase energy from Willow Creek Wind in Butte County, South Dakota, US.



NIMECA, power supplier to 13 municipal utilities in northern Iowa, will offtake power from rsteds Willow Creek Wind in Butte County, which has been operational since September 2020.

Were excited to team up with NIMECA to assist them in providing renewable energy to homes, business, factories, and farms in and around their local communities, said Vishal Kapadia, Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of Onshore in rsted, continuing: The PPA with NIMECA provides access to clean energy for multiple local municipalities, adding to the diversity of our portfolio and expanding our customer relationships to an important segment of the market.

Adding Willow Creek Wind to NIMECAs generation portfolio helps to diversify our energy supply, said Greg Fritz, CEO of NIMECA, adding: Were pleased to be working with rsted to provide our municipal utility members with low-cost, clean energy.

NIMECA is the seventh establishment to enter into a power purchase agreement with rsted Onshore this year.

About rsted

The rsted vision is a world that runs entirely on green energy. rsted develops, constructs, and operates offshore and onshore wind farms, solar farms, energy storage facilities, and bioenergy plants, and provides energy products to its customers. rsted ranks as the worlds most sustainable energy company in Corporate Knights' 2021 index of the Global 100 most sustainable corporations in the world and is recognised on the CDP Climate Change A List as a global leader on climate action. Headquartered in Denmark, rsted employs 6,311 people. rsted's shares are listed on Nasdaq Copenhagen (Orsted). In 2020, the group's revenue was DKK 52.6 billion (EUR 7.1 billion). Visit orsted.com or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter.

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For further information, please contact:

Media Relations

Kathrine Ejlskov

+ 45 99 55 10 23

katej@orsted.dk

Investor Relations

Allan Bdskov Andersen

+ 45 99 55 79 96

ir@orsted.dk

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NEW YORK, May 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Emergent BioSolutions Inc. (Emergent or the Company) (NYSE: EBS). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at newaction@pomlaw.com or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.



The investigation concerns whether Emergent 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 March 31, 2021, the New York Times published an article reporting on the accidental contamination at an Emergent manufacturing plant in Baltimore of coronavirus vaccines developed by Johnson & Johnson and AstraZeneca PLC. According to reporting by the Associated Press, the Emergent factory where the contamination occurred had a series of lapses observed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in April 2020.

On this news, Emergents stock price fell $12.45 per share, or 13.4%, to close at $80.46 per share on April 1, 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

rswilloughby@pomlaw.com

888-476-6529 ext. 7980




NEW YORK, May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. (Reconnaissance or the Company) (OTCMKTS: RECAF). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at newaction@pomlaw.com or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.



The investigation concerns whether Reconnaissance 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 May 11, 2021, National Geographic published an article entitled Oil company exploring in sensitive elephant habitat accused of ignoring community concerns: Namibians allege ReconAfrica disposed of wastewater unsafely, without permits, and ignored concerns about potential impact of oil drilling on water and wildlife. The article reported, among other things, that ReconAfrica, a Canadian company exploring for oil and gas in Namibia upstream of a world-famous UNESCO World Heritage site thats home to elephants and other wildlife is disposing of wastewater without permits, according to a government minister. The article detailed that [d]rilling for the first test well began in January, and waste fluids are being stored in what appears to be an unlined pond, where they could leach into the ground and contaminate the water supply in this desert region[,] and that Namibias minister of agriculture, water, and land reform, the agency responsible for water-related permits, told National Geographic in a written statement that ReconAfrica does not yet have permits approved to extract water to use in its drilling operations nor to dispose of the waste water[.]

On this news, ReconAfricas stock price fell $0.50 per share, or 6.25%, to close at $7.50 per share on May 11, 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 .

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CONTACT:

Robert S. Willoughby

Pomerantz LLP

rswilloughby@pomlaw.com

888-476-6529 ext. 7980




Figure 1

RLX Project

RLX Project

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Solstice Gold Corp. (TSXV: SGC) (Solstice, we, our or the Company) are pleased to announce that we have completed a preliminary interpretation and commenced field programs (the Program) at our 55 km2 RLX project (the Project), located in the prolific Red Lake Mining Camp approximately 25 km North-East of Red Lake, Ontario.



The interpretation utilizes the Companys recently completed 50 m-spaced magnetic survey combined with previous mapping, electromagnetic and magnetic surveys completed by the Ontario Geologic Survey (OGS)* and limited drilling completed by Placer Dome in 1980. A preliminary compilation map is presented in Figure 1. Ground programs in May-June 2021 will include mapping, prospecting and soil and biogeochemical surveys of initial target areas.

Summary of Project compilation

Solstice acquired RLX because it is an under-explored extension of the main Red Lake greenstone belt in a similar geological setting to the nearby Sidace Gold Deposit (Evolution Mining Ltd. and Pacton Gold Ltd.). Like Sidace, RLX is characterized by greenstone sequences associated with extensive electromagnetic conductors. In addition, RLX lies at the confluence of several major structures (Figure 1) supported by OGS and other data sources. Recently, Ministry of Northern Development and Mines (MNDM) geologists drew attention to the potential presence of a prominent geological structure as the third major structure in the district**. Other similar structures are located close to major gold deposits according to the MNDM. The location of a major crustal structure in the vicinity of RLX is further supported by seismic studies in 20043 and the documented presence of deep-sourced intrusives (Sanukitoids) on the property.

Based on a 2008 OGS 200 metre-spaced airborne EM* survey, we currently recognize four extensive EM trends/target areas A-D (Figure 1). Major NNW-trending faults are part of the Nungessor Deformation Zone (NDZ). Other NNE-trending faults are present. These appear to be rooted in the NDZ. One of these structures (target area D) is observed to extend through the NDZ. The fault(s) in this area may extend to the Sidace gold deposit area and at RLX are associated with NE-trending EM anomalies and possible rotation of stratigraphy. In 1980, Placer Dome drilled 12 short drill holes (1352m) on the property representing very wide-spaced tests. According to logs and filed location data in assessment files, four of these drill holes either did not test their intended target or were drilled in the wrong direction. All holes appear to be under-sampled with only 10% of the material being assayed despite descriptions of extensive sulphide mineralization in the drill logs. Despite this, two drill holes intercepted gold (0.68g/t in three sampled sections totalling 10 feet). A further two drill holes were sampled but assays were not reported in filed assessment logs. Drill logs note the presence of felsic volcanics over 1.5km strike length (open) and three drill holes report well mineralized skarns. Collectively, these observations lend support to an environment similar to Sidace where the aforementioned features are also observed.

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Figure 1: RLX Project https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/74176d65-90c3-4d5e-b65b-0a044e8ca747

2021 Ground Based Exploration Program

Mapping and prospecting designed to further evaluate the initial target areas and to upgrade project geology is headed up by Solstice lead geologist, Sandy Barham. Sandy has over 30 years of experience running field programs and his work has successfully led to the discovery and development of multi-million ounce gold deposits.

We shall also be carrying out soil and biogeochemical sampling surveys over four initial target areas. Because we expect relatively deep overburden in the area of EM conductors, these surveys are designed to test for a geochemical response in humus (Ah soil horizon) and/or certain tree/shrub species. The design and interpretation of this work will be conducted under the supervision of a leading expert in the field of Biogeochemistry, Dr. Colin Dunn.

We identified the potential of RLX using our previous experience in the Sidace area along with a review of all available scientific data. As OGS and other data show, RLX occupies the extension of the prolific Red Lake greenstone belt in an area where several major crustal scale structures coalesce. This represents a prime setting for gold mineralization. Despite the property having seen only cursory exploration to date, we do know gold is present along with extensive sulphides and alteration which we believe may be analogous to the geological setting of the Sidace gold deposit. It is interesting to note that, like RLX, Sidace was also explored by Placer Dome (1979) who reported some gold in drilling. However, it would be 20 or so years later before the Sidace deposit was discovered. This Program will provide the data required for the next level of targeting as we continue to advance towards our goal of a drill program on RLX in late 2021 to early 2022, stated David Adamson, Chairman.

During his successful 16 years of exploration in the Red Lake camp, David Adamson was a co-award winner for the discovery of the Bateman Gold deposit which was recently acquired by Evolution Mining for C$343 million4. In addition, David was instrumental in the acquisition of many of the Red Lake district properties in the Battle North portfolio that was also acquired by Evolution Mining.

During the course of our exploration program Solstice staff will adhere to health and safety protocols and guidelines, in particular those related to COVID-19, as provided by the Departments of Public Health of both the Federal and Provincial Governments.

Additional details regarding the RLX Project are available in the Companys news releases dated February 2, 10, 11 and March 16, 2021 and in the updated presentation on the Companys website at www.solsticegold.com.

This news release contains references to other projects, their structures and mineralization; there is no certainty that Solstices projects will contain similar structures or mineralization.

*Ontario Geological Survey 2008. Ontario airborne geophysical surveys, magnetic and electromagnetic data, grid and profile data (ASCII and Geosoft formats) and vector data, Whitefeather forest area, GEOTEM 1000 survey, Ontario Geological Survey, Geophysical Data Set 1058a.

**https://www.mndm.gov.on.ca/sites/default/files/recommendations_for_exploration_2020-2021.pdf

OGS: Stone D. 1998. Precambrian geology, Trout Lake area; Ontario Geological Survey, Map P.3383. scale 1:250 000

MNDM Interpretation from: Lewis, S.O. 2021. Deep tapping seismic structure in the Red Lake district; in Ontario Geological Survey, Resident Geologist Program, Recommendations for Exploration 2020-2021, p.9-13.

Original Seismic Interpretation from:

Zeng, Fafu and Calvert, Andrew. 2011. Imaging the upper part of the Red Lake greenstone belt, northwestern Ontario, with 3-D traveltime tomography. Canadian Journal of Earth Sciences, v.43. p.849-863. https://doi.o rg/10.1139/e06-027.

3. Calvert, Andrew J. and Cruden, Alexander R. 2004. Seismic evidence for the preservation of the Archean Uchi granite-greenstone belt by crustal-scale extension. Tectonophysics 388 p.135-143

4. Evolution Mining NR May 20, 2021. https://evolutionmining.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/2213595-Completion-of-Battle-North-Acquisition.pdf

About Solstice Gold

Solstice is a gold-focussed exploration company engaged in the exploration of our high-quality exploration assets in top tier jurisdictions. Our 55 km2 Red Lake Extension project along with the combined 96 km2 Taillon, Moreau and Berens projects are located on the north end of the prolific Red Lake Gold District. Our district scale KGP project covers 886 km2 with certain other rights covering an adjacent 683 km2, all with no underlying option or earn in payments. KGP has seen over $12MM dollars spent on significant field work, identified a 10 km2 gold boulder field and now prepared with multiple drill-ready targets. KGP is located in Nunavut, Canada, only 26 km from Rankin Inlet and approximately 7 km from the Meliadine gold deposits owned by Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd. Solstice has 99.8 million shares outstanding.

Solstice is committed to responsible exploration and development in the communities in which we work. For more details on Solstice Gold, the Red Lake Extension Project and the KGP Project, please see our Corporate Presentation available at www.solsticegold.com.

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.

Sandy Barham, M.Sc., P.Geo., Senior Geologist, is the Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 standards responsible for reviewing and approving the technical content of this news release.

On Behalf of Solstice Gold Corp.

David Adamson, Ph.D.

Chairman

For further information please visit our website at www.solsticegold.com or contact:

Marty Tunney, PEng

President

info@solsticegold.com

Phone: (604) 622-5040

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements (FLS) relating but not limited to the Companys expectations, intentions, plans and beliefs. FLS can often be identified by forward-looking words such as approximate or (~), emerging, goal, plan, intent, estimate, expects, potential, scheduled, may and will or similar words suggesting future outcomes or other expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, intentions or statements about future events or performance. FLS in this news release also include, but are not limited to, the extent and timing of described programs and ground-work, such as rock sampling, drilling, geophysics, mapping, till sampling and analysis. Geological interpretations are FLS and are subject to change based on additional data and/or further analysis. FLS in this news release include comparison with certain geological features at adjacent and regional projects. There can be no guarantee that continued exploration at Solstice exploration projects, which are at an early stage of exploration, will lead to the discovery of an economic gold deposit. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from any FLS include, but are not limited to, the future impacts of the COVID 19 pandemic and government response to such pandemic, the ability of the Company to continue exploration at its project in lieu of the pandemic and the risk of future lack of access to the project as a result thereof, delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required governmental, environmental or other project approvals, inability to locate source rocks, inflation, changes in exchange rates, fluctuations in commodity prices, delays in the development of projects, regulatory approvals and other factors. FLS are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expected results.

Potential shareholders and prospective investors should be aware that these statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those suggested by the FLS. Shareholders are cautioned not to place undue reliance on FLS. By their nature FLS involve numerous assumptions, inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and various future events will not occur. Solstice undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any FLS whether as a result of new information, future events or other such factors which affect this information, except as required by law.

This news release contains information with respect to adjacent or other mineral properties in respect of which the Company has no interest or rights to explore or mine or acquire. Readers are cautioned that mineral deposits on adjacent or similar properties are not indicative of mineral deposits on the Companys properties, nor is there certainty that Solstices projects will contain economic mineralization. This news release mentions other companies that are unrelated to Solstice and this does not imply any agreements, partnerships or rights with respect to any of these companies or their properties other than where explicitly defined. Past performance is no guarantee of future performance and all investors are urged to consult their investment professionals before making an investment decision.




Soon, Uncharted 4: A Thief's End won't be a PlayStation-exclusive anymore. Sony has revealed (PDF) in a report presented to investors that the title is heading to PC as part of its strategy to find new fans for its IPs and to target new geographies. Survival horror game Days Gone arrived on Steam on May 19th, so there's a chance that Uncharted will follow suit. In addition, the company has told investors that it's expecting the standard edition of the PlayStation 5 to break even in June and to become increasingly profitable in the months after that.

In its earnings report released back in February, Sony admitted that it's losing money on every PS5 it sells because it set "strategic price points for PS5 hardware that were... lower than the manufacturing costs." Even so, Sony's gaming business enjoyed its best fiscal quarter ever with 883.2 billion yen ($8.4 billion) in revenue and 80.2 billion yen ($763 million) in profits, up 50 percent over 2019. The company achieved those numbers not only while selling consoles at a loss, but also while it couldn't keep up with demand due to the global chip shortage. Sony didn't expound on how the PS5 will become profitable in the coming months, but we'll know just how much more money it'll make from this development in its next earnings reports.

Sony PS5

Uncharted 4's and Days Gone's availability on the PC is only one of the new growth vectors Sony has discussed with its investors. The company also expects its mobile efforts to bring in new audiences. If you'll recall, the company put out a job ad for an executive at PlayStation Studios that would focus on bringing its "most popular franchises" to mobile back in April. It's also relying on the PS Now service and next-gen VR gaming on the PS5 to create new fans for its consoles and games.
This page will contain resources for Faculty & Staff at the University of New Haven related to the reopening of campus. We strongly encourage you to continue to check this page often. More resources will be added here as they are developed.

Please note that decisions we have made are based on the comprehensive work of our COVID Task Forces and consistent with guidance provided to universities by the state of Connecticut Department of Public Health and in accordance with local, state, and federal health and safety guidance. As such, all information on this page is subject to change.
NEW YORK, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Growing demand for tractors, brush cutters, water pumps, and lawn mowers for agriculture and horticulture is lending impetus to the growth of the South Asia agriculture equipment market. The agriculture sector has seen significant growth in the past few years, and the same is expected over the coming years as well. The market is estimated to expand at an impressive CAGR of around 9% over the forecast period of 2021-2031.

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India, Bangladesh, and ASEAN countries are major markets for agriculture equipment in the region. With a fragmented market, manufacturers are highly concentrated on their increasing sales and distribution networks across the South Asian region.

Key Take aways from Market Study

Utilization of agricultural equipment has witnessed significant increase for gardening and horticulture applications, in addition to farming activities.

Increasing mechanization has been attributed as a key driver for the sales and utilization of agriculture equipment in South Asia.

Tractors are identified to lead the agriculture and farming domain, where as lawn movers are identified as the prominent equipment for use in gardening and landscaping applications.

Subsidies announced by governments as well as financing schemes by OEMs are aiding low-to-middle income famers in the procurement agriculture equipment.

Over the coming years, the tractor segment is expected to hold a considerable share in the South Asia market.

Consumption of agriculture equipment, especially in India, Bangladesh, and ASEAN Countries, among others, is expected to grow at a sound rate during the forecast period. Accordingly, in order to cater to this increasing demand, leading manufacturers are channelizing their resources toward ramping up their existing production capacities.

Request for sample PDF of report: https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/32479

"Increment in Agriculture Production Output to aid market growth in South Asia," says a Persistence Market Research analyst.

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Competitive Landscape

The South Asia agriculture equipment market has been identified as a moderately competitive space, with the organized sector occupying a major section of the overall market share. Leading players included in the report, such asTractors and Farm Equipment Ltd., Yanmar Holdings, Honda India Power Products Ltd, CNH Industrial N.V., Makita Corporation, Andreas Stihl AG & Co., and Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., are anticipated to create a tough competitive environment in this space.

To know more ask an expert: https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/ask-an-expert/32479

Conclusion

The market is anticipated to expand substantially owing to increment in Agriculture Production Output in the region, where agricultural/ horticultural produce is primarily for export and trade purposes. Increasing use of agriculture equipment in South Asia for forestry and landscaping has been witnessed in recent times. Demand for tractors and lawn mowers for agricultural applications is expected to rise during the forecast period of 2021-2031.

Get full access of report: https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/checkout/32479

Find More Valuable Insights

The research report analyzes demand for agriculture equipment in South Asia. The market has been analyzed with the COVID-19 impact, various macroeconomic factors, market trends, and market background. As per Persistence Market Research's research scope, the market has been analyzed on the basis of product, application, and country/region. The report provides qualitative and quantitative information on various players in this market. This report also tracks the market by both, supply side and demand side.

Browse Research Release at: https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/market-reports.asp

Browse End-to-end Market: Industrial Automation

Related Reports:

Gardening And Agriculture Equipment Market: https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/market-research/gardening-and-agriculture-equipment-market.asp

Agricultural Equipment Market: https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/market-research/agricultural-equipment-market.asp

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To support companies in overcoming complex business challenges, we follow a multi-disciplinary approach. At PMR, we unite various data streams from multi-dimensional sources. By deploying real-time data collection, big data, and customer experience analytics, we deliver business intelligence for organizations of all sizes.

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National Automotive Styling Centers franchise marks 5th California location

FREMONT, Calif., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Tint World Automotive Styling Centers, a premier automotive styling and window tinting franchise, has moved to an updated location in Fremont, California. Originally based in Union City, this updated location is the 5th Tint World center in California and is now under the co-ownership of Frank Helmand, William Kuan-wei Wu, and Kenny McCardie.

Tint World moved to an updated location in Fremont, California. The store is under the co-ownership of Frank Helmand, William Kuan-wei Wu, and Kenny McCardie.

"William, Kenny, and I realized that there was a strong need for an auto styling business in our community of Fremont," Helmand said. "Tint World offers high-end products that are sure to please all customers. In addition to providing great products, the team at headquarters showcases excellence in franchisee support and training. With their help, we will be able to provide our community with the services they need to customize their vehicles, homes/offices, and even marine craft  all from this brand-new, state-of-the-art location."

Tint World Fremont, California offers a full variety of products and services, including window tinting, advanced driver-assistance systems, car stereo upgrades, custom wheel and tire packages, mobile electronics, nano ceramic coatings, paint protection films, security systems, color-change vehicle wraps, and residential and commercial window film.

"Frank, William, and Kenny are passionate entrepreneurs that possess the knowledge and skills to run a successful franchise," said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. "They will help us promote excellence under the Tint World brand as we continue our expansion."

Tint World Fremont is located at 3030 Osgood Court, Fremont, CA 94539. For additional information, call (510) 471-3880 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/ca/fremont-019/.

About Tint World

Founded in 1982, Tint World has grown to become the leading franchise provider of automotive styling, residential, commercial and marine window tinting and security film services. With Automotive Styling Centers in the U.S. and abroad, each franchise location houses approximately 20 profit centers, ranging from in-store accessory installations to off-site sales and installation of residential, commercial and marine window tinting and security films. To find out more, please visit www.TintWorld.com and www.TintWorldFranchise.com. You can also like them on Facebook.

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Tint World Contact:

Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO

888-944-8468

info@tintworld.com

Media Contact:

Heather Ripley

Ripley PR

865-977-1973

hripley@ripleypr.com

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monopo to increase resource for global clients and projects with a focus on millenial/ Gen-Z and cross-border communication

NEW YORK, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- monopo inc. a creative agency based in Tokyo and London, announces the launch of new US branch monopo New York.

monopo has been nurturing relationships with Northern American brands and partners such as Amazon, Canada Goose, Red Wing, Reebok. More work here: https://monopo.nyc/

From Japan to the world alongside a global creative community

monopo is a multidisciplinary creative agency that offers services across branding, advertising and digital experiences. By specializing in cross-cultural communication, their international team of creatives connects Tokyo with the world. Over the past 10 years, monopo has nurtured an international community, deepening their knowledge on global communication design by partnering with either global brands expanding into APAC like Canada Goose or producing global campaigns for Japanese brands like Shiseido or Yamaha.

Together with a network of over 1000 creators* from around the globe under the group mission of "Collective Creativity", monopo has produced work for brands across over a dozen countries.

monopo chose New York, the melting pot for culture and some of the most progressive talent, as their next base to establish a sales office in July 2021. monopo New York aims to build a close network of local clients and creators to nurture a platform for open collaboration. In addition to their existing cross-border creative planning and production work across APAC, monopo will also provide services on communication design and brand design to connect products and users, especially targeting Millennials and Gen Z.

US Expansion Led by Female Creators from Tokyo

monopo New York is led by two creators, Chinese-born producer / UX designer Toshika Kosako who spent her early career in Japan and the UK, alongside art director / illustrator Mei Kanamoto who lived between Thailand, Japan, and in New York . Together with Global Development Director Georgi Roberts, who leads the groups global expansion, monopo takes on a challenge in a new territory. monopo New York is founded by talent who grew up in multicultural environments, implementing values that exceed conventional concepts of merely "westernizing" or "localizing" when it comes to cross border communication. monopo New York positions itself as the hub between Asia and North America, therefore eliminating logistical and cultural barriers to pursue creativity, and to encourage the industry, society, or even borderless community for a more diverse and inclusive collaboration standpoint.

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Toshika Kosako (left), Mei Kanamoto (centre), and Georgi Roberts (right)

Member Bio:

Toshika Kosako

(monopo New York Branch Manager)

Originally from Qingdao, China. After studying Journalism at Ritsumei University and at the Ocean University of China, Toshika acquired a M.A. (Master of Arts) in Communication Design at Central Saint Martins in London

During her studies at Central Saint Martins, Toshika started her career as a UX designer at the Camden Council in London.

Before monopo, Toshika had been a part of various projects such as for the design of "JP Bank Book App" which was awarded the Good Design Award in 2020.

At monopo, Toshika engages in communication design for both Japan and international projects such as producing a global PR project at C4IR of the World Economic Forum or leading the UX consulting for a new business development by NTT East.

Mei Kanamoto

(monopo New York Branch Manager)

Born in Fukuoka and raised between Japan, Thailand and in the United states, Mei holds a bachelor's degree in illustration from Parsons School of Design in New York.

While working as an illustrator at the Metropolitan Opera in New York, Mei has held solo exhibitions internationally.

At monopo, Mei leads the art direction for campaigns such as ISETAN's "Beautiful Choice" focusing on sustainability, as well as high-end fashion brands such as JIMMY CHOO and for prestige products like SHISEIDO.

Georgi Roberts

(monopo Global Development Director)

British born, South African raised, Georgi moved to Tokyo in 2015

After studying Film & Media, Dramatic Arts and English Language at University of Cape Town, Georgi has worked across theatre management, television production and advertising in both Cape Town and London.

When moving to Tokyo in 2015, Georgi worked as a producer in the Japanese advertising industry before joining monopo in 2018. Georgi has been driving account development between Tokyo and London for various brands as well as leading global communication campaigns for Japanese clients.

About monopo

As a global community-based creative agency based in Tokyo and London, monopo offers services for both domestic and foreign brands. With "A BRAND OF COLLECTIVE CREATIVITY" as their vision, monopo aims to create a community where various individuals can share their ideas and creativity in fields centered on branding, advertising, and public relations. In 2019, a subsidiary monopo London. Ltd was established in London, with the upcoming branch monopo New York coming up in 2021. In their in-house project "poweredby.tokyo", monopo uniquely promotes the unknown charm of Tokyo to the world.

monopo inc.

Company Name monopo inc.

Est. 2011, July

Representative Yoshiyuki Sasaki, Shun Okada

Tokyo Office Location Path Omotesando A3, 5-6-5 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0001

Number of employees approx. 30including monopo London

monopo New York

Sales Office Name monopo New York

Est. 2021, July

Representatives Toshika Kosako, Mei Kanamoto

Location 300 Cadman Plaza West, One Pierrepont Plaza 12th Floor, Brooklyn New York 11201

monopo New York Web:

https://monopo.nyc/

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SOURCE monopo inc.
CSE: VYGR

OTCQB: VYGVF

Borse Frankfurt: UCD2

Voyager to Advocate for Crypto Policy and Innovation as a Member of the Blockchain Association

NEW YORK, May 27, 2021 /CNW/ - Voyager Digital Ltd. ("Voyager" or the "Company") (CSE: VYGR) (OTCQB: VYGVF) (FRA: UCD2), announces its initiation into the Blockchain Association, which is comprised of industry leaders advocating for the innovation and collaboration necessary to support American leadership of the cryptocurrency industry.

Voyager Digital (Canada) Ltd. Logo (CNW Group/Voyager Digital (Canada) Ltd.)

Voyager will be the newest member onboarded to the Blockchain Association, which enables the Company to play a proactive role in initiatives that help shape public policy for the crypto and blockchain industry, to ensure that the highest of standards are adopted.

"It's a privilege for Voyager to be a member of the Blockchain Association," said Voyager's CEO and Co-founder Steve Ehrlich. "Having an active voice to influence blockchain and crypto policy is more critical than ever as the industry gains unprecedented traction at the public and federal levels. Our existing legal infrastructure and government regulations must evolve, and in some cases completely transform, to address the needs of the rapidly expanding crypto sector."

As a member of the Blockchain Association, Voyager has the opportunity to participate in working groups that address issues that are crucial to the Company and the crypto industry as a whole, including securities, litigation, regulation, DeFi, custody, staking, diversity, privacy, and more. Voyager will also be able to actively participate in policy processes by contributing to comment letters, legislation, and other documents. Voyager joins the Blockchain Association with other pioneers in the industry, including AAVE, Circle, Grayscale, and Fireblocks.

"We are thrilled to have Voyager join the Blockchain Association," said Dan Spuller, Blockchain Association's Director of Industry Affairs. "Our team is looking forward to working closely with Voyager to improve the public policy environment as we grow this new and exciting technological frontier."

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About Voyager Digital Ltd.

Voyager Digital Ltd. is a publicly traded holding company whose subsidiaries operate a crypto-asset platform that provides retail and institutional investors with a seamless solution to trade crypto assets. The Voyager Platform provides its customers with competitive price execution through its smart order router and as well as a custody solution on a wide choice of popular crypto-assets. Voyager was founded by established Wall Street and Silicon Valley entrepreneurs who teamed to bring a better, more transparent, and cost-efficient alternative for trading crypto-assets to the marketplace. Please visit us at https://www.investvoyager.com for more information.

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. No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this press release.

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" that are based on expectations, estimates, projections and interpretations as at the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "seek", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "suggest", "indicate" and other similar words or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and other factors may include, but are not limited to, those risk factors outlined in the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis as filed on SEDAR. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

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SOURCE Voyager Digital (Canada) Ltd.

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LEAD PLAINTIFF DEADLINE IS JULY 23, 2021

NEW YORK, May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wolf Haldenstein Adler Freeman & Herz LLP announces that a federal securities class action lawsuit has been filed against Washington Prime Group, Inc. (Washington Prime or WPG) (NYSE: WPG) in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio on behalf of those who purchased or otherwise acquired publicly traded Washington Prime securities between November 5, 2020 and March 4, 2021, inclusive (the Class Period).



All investors who purchased shares of Washington Prime Group, Inc. and incurred losses are urged to contact the firm immediately at classmember@whafh.com or (800) 575-0735 or (212) 545-4774. You may obtain additional information concerning the action or join the case on our website, www.whafh.com.

If you have incurred losses in your investment in shares of Washington Prime Group, Inc., you may, no later than July 23, 2021, request that the Court appoint you lead plaintiff of the proposed class. Please contact Wolf Haldenstein to learn more about your rights as an investor in the shares of Washington Prime Group, Inc.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN CASE

On February 16, 2021, WPG disclosed that its operating partnership, Washington Prime Group, L.P. (WPG L.P.), had elected to withhold an interest payment of $23.2 million due on February 15, 2021 with respect to WPG L.P.s outstanding Senior Notes due 2024, and that WPG L.P. has a 30-day grace period to make the interest payment before such non-payment constitutes an event of default. The Company further advised that, in an event of default, certain counterparties to the senior notes could accelerate the outstanding indebtedness due . . . making such indebtedness due and payable, which would result in a cross-default with respect to some of WPG L.P.s or the Companys other indebtedness.

On this news, the Companys stock price fell $4.59, or 38%, to close at $7.49 per share on February 16, 2021, on unusually heavy volume.

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Then, on March 4, 2021, Bloomberg reported that WPG is preparing a potential bankruptcy filing as time runs out to avert default after it skipped an interest payment on its debt, according to people with knowledge of the plans.

On this news, the Companys stock price fell $3.77, or 60%, to close at $2.51 per share on March 4, 2021, on unusually heavy volume.

Wolf Haldenstein has extensive experience in the prosecution of securities class actions and derivative litigation in state and federal trial and appellate courts across the country. The firm has attorneys in various practice areas; and offices in New York, Chicago and San Diego. The reputation and expertise of this firm in shareholder and other class litigation has been repeatedly recognized by the courts, which have appointed it to major positions in complex securities multi-district and consolidated litigation.

If you wish to discuss this action or have any questions regarding your rights and interests in this case, please immediately contact Wolf Haldenstein by telephone at (800) 575-0735, via e-mail at classmember@whafh.com, or visit our website.

Contact:

Wolf Haldenstein Adler Freeman & Herz LLP

Patrick Donovan, Esq.

Gregory Stone, Director of Case and Financial Analysis

Email: gstone@whafh.com, donovan@whafh.com or classmember@whafh.com

Tel: (800) 575-0735 or (212) 545-4774

This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules.








KITCHENER, ON, May 27, 2021 /CNW/ -

Waterloo Brewing Ltd. Logo (CNW Group/Waterloo Brewing Ltd.)

First Quarter Highlights:

Net revenue increased 51.5% to $22.5 million, up from $14.8 million in the prior year.

Gross margin decreased slightly to 22.2%, compared to 24.9% the prior year, a result of the last outsourced production early in the fiscal year.

Selling, Marketing, and Administration expenses were $3.6 million, up from $2.8 million in the prior year.

EBITDA* increased 52.4% to $3.2 million, compared to $2.1 million in the prior year.

The Board of Directors approved the quarterly dividend, $0.0276/share, payable August 4, 2021, to shareholders of record as of July 21, 2021. The dividend is classified as an eligible dividend.

Waterloo Brewing Ltd. ("Waterloo Brewing" or the "Company") (TSX: WBR), Ontario's first craft brewery, announced financial results for the first quarter of fiscal 2022 which ended on May 2, 2021. Waterloo Brewing reported EBITDA of $3.2 million, an increase of $1.1 million or 52.4% on net revenue of $22.5 million. Net revenue increased by $7.7 million or 51.5% from the first quarter of fiscal 2021.

"We are happy with our strong start to the year and our record first quarter results," said George Croft, President and Chief Executive Officer of Waterloo Brewing. "Our owner brands' volume continues to grow at double-digits and our co-manufacturing of high-value global beverage brands more than doubled. We are growing in all sales channels and significantly outpacing the balance of the industry."

The total volume of products sold by Waterloo Brewing in the quarter increased +57%, with every brand in the portfolio experiencing year-over-year growth for the eighth-straight quarter. Laker growth is at 8%, LandShark growth is at 83%, Waterloo growth is at 32%, and Seagram delivered 40% growth. Gross margin performance temporarily declined in the quarter due to pandemic-related issues and the last outsourced production that occurred prior to the ramp-up of new internal production capacity in April. Waterloo Brewing anticipates delivering margin improvements for the balance of the year.

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Late in the quarter, Waterloo Brewing launched Waterloo Watermelon and Tart Cherry Radlers, LandShark Seltzer and Seagram Island Time Coconut Lime. The Company believes these new launches continue to demonstrate innovation and leadership within the category. Steady progress is being made to improve brand support to better position brands for long-term sustainable growth. Waterloo Brewing is confident in the ability to innovate and build strong brands that complement the current portfolio and help support the mission of long-term profitable growth.

"As the COVID-19 pandemic slowly winds down, our primary focus continues to be on operating our brewery and our business safely and working hard to continue to innovate and meet customer demand," Croft added.

"To support hospitality workers and help the on-premises channel recover from the devastating impact of the pandemic, Waterloo Brewing will be selling kegs and tall cans of its most popular brands at a significantly reduced price to pubs and restaurants in Ontario. We are thankful to our outstanding team of coworkers and retailers for their continued diligence which has allowed us to continue to operate and help grow our business during this most difficult time."

Waterloo Brewing has taken various steps to ensure the capacity is there to support this accelerating growth, including the installation of a state-of-the-art can line which has increased annual canning capacity by 750 thousand hectoliters to 1.2 million hectoliters. Waterloo Brewing continues to work hard on its supply chain with the goal of making the integrated supply chain more efficient, reducing costs, and increasing flexibility. Waterloo Brewing expects to complete all this work in the second quarter of F2022, while continuing to invest in capacity to take advantage of the fast-growing owner brands and co-manufacturing business. While the industry remains competitive, Waterloo Brewing is optimistic for continued growth of the current brand portfolio, innovations, and co-manufacturing business.

The following financial information should be read in conjunction with the audited annual financial statements of the Company prepared under IFRS for the year ended January 31, 2021.

Reconciliation of Net Earnings to EBITDA*





Quarter ended (unaudited) (in thousands of dollars) May 2, 2021 April 26, 2020





Net income $ (101) $ (295)





Add (deduct):



Income tax expense (36) (126) Depreciation and amortization 2,350 1,736 Loss (gain) on disposal of property, plant & equipment and right-of-use assets (17) 218 Share-based payments 139 169 Finance costs 911 428 Subtotal 3,347 2,425





EBITDA * 3,246 2,130

STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION

As at May 2, 2021 and January 31, 2021

(Not audited or reviewed by the Company's external auditor)



May 2, 2021 January 31, 2021





ASSETS



Current assets



Accounts receivable $ 11,960,452 $ 9,871,061 Inventories 18,801,565 14,344,496 Prepaid expenses 982,986 729,260

31,745,003 24,944,817 Non-current assets



Property, plant and equipment 51,846,951 46,630,107 Right-of-use assets 27,810,657 26,936,861 Intangible assets 14,992,102 15,002,826 Construction deposits 830,657 1,949,074

95,480,367 90,518,868 TOTAL ASSETS 127,225,370 115,463,685





LIABILITIES AND EQUITY



Current liabilities



Bank indebtedness 8,028,390 3,366,489 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 25,852,128 21,341,335 Current portion of lease liabilities 3,313,002 3,282,080 Non-revolving demand loans 28,152,216 25,896,379 Current portion of long-term debt 427,747 510,275

65,773,483 54,396,558 Non-current liabilities



Provisions 1,035,539 1,019,962 Lease liabilities 21,918,859 21,522,379 Long-term debt 1,243,248 1,367,930 Deferred income tax liability 3,426,101 3,462,495

27,623,747 27,372,766 TOTAL LIABILITIES 93,397,230 81,769,324 Equity



Share capital 39,953,562 39,546,216 Share-based payments reserves 2,072,547 2,245,415 Deficit (8,197,969) (8,097,270) TOTAL EQUITY 33,828,140 33,694,361





COMMITMENTS















TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY $ 127,225,370 $ 115,463,685

STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

For the quarters ended May 2, 2021 and April 26, 2020

(Not audited or reviewed by the Company's external auditor)



May 2, 2021 April 26, 2020





Revenue $ 22,484,185 $ 14,842,478 Cost of sales 17,487,382 11,145,445 Gross profit 4,996,803 3,697,033





Selling, marketing and administration expenses 3,596,069 2,839,249 Other expenses 643,787 632,819 Finance costs 911,249 428,444 Loss (gain) on disposal of property, plant and



equipment and right-of-use assets (17,209) 218,063 Loss before tax (137,093) (421,542)





Income tax recovery (36,394) (126,462) Net loss and comprehensive







loss for the quarter $ (100,699) $ (295,080)











Basic loss per share $ - $ (0.01) Diluted loss per share $ - $ (0.01)

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

For the quarters ended May 2, 2021 and April 26, 2020

(Not audited or reviewed by the Company's external auditor)



Quarter ended

May 2, 2021 April 26, 2020





Operating activities



Net loss $ (100,699) $ (295,080) Adjustments for:



Income tax recovery (36,394) (126,462) Finance costs 911,249 428,444 Depreciation and amortization of property, plant and



equipment, right-of-use assets and intangibles 2,349,979 1,735,679 Loss (gain) on disposal of property, plant and equipment and



right-of-use assets (17,209) 218,063 Share-based payments 139,166 169,472 Change in non-cash working capital (2,500,083) 1,743,519 Less:



Interest paid (682,679) (413,954) Cash provided by operating activities 63,330 3,459,681





Investing activities



Purchase of property, plant and equipment (4,913,073) (3,363,659) Construction deposit paid (830,657) (744,046) Proceeds from sale of right-of-use assets, net 17,916 - Purchase of intangible assets (42,297) (30,812) Cash used in investing activities (5,768,111) (4,138,517)





Financing activities



Increase in bank indebtedness 4,661,901 253,680 Issuance of non-revolving demand loans 3,362,543 2,041,549 Repayment of non-revolving demand loans (1,106,705) (432,921) Repayment of long-term debt (209,513) (114,786) Repayment of lease liabilities (1,098,757) (881,060) Issuance of shares, net of fees 86,013 - Shares repurchased and cancelled, including fees - (187,626) Proceeds from stock option exercise 9,299 - Cash generated from financing activities 5,704,781 678,836





Net increase/(decrease) in cash - -





Cash, beginning of year - -









Cash, end of year $ - $ -





Non-cash investing activities:













Acquisition of assets under lease $ 1,532,415 $ 3,818

About Waterloo Brewing

Waterloo Brewing is Ontario's largest Canadian-owned brewery. The Company is a regional brewer of award-winning premium quality and value beers and is officially certified under the Global Food Safety Standard, one of the highest and most internationally recognized standards for safe food production. Founded in 1984, Waterloo Brewing Ltd. was the first craft brewery to start up in Ontario and is credited with pioneering the present-day craft brewing renaissance in Canada. Waterloo Brewing has complemented its Waterloo premium craft beers with the popular Laker brand. In 2011, Waterloo Brewing purchased the Canadian rights to Seagram Coolers and in 2015, secured the exclusive Canadian rights to both LandShark and Margaritaville. In addition, Waterloo Brewing utilizes its leading-edge brewing, blending, and packaging capabilities to provide an extensive array of contract manufacturing services in beer, coolers, and ciders. Waterloo Brewing trades on the TSX under the symbol WBR. Visit us at www.WaterlooBrewing.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

All statements in this press release that do not directly and exclusively relate to historical facts constitute forward-looking statements as of the date of this press release. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "expect", "intend", "anticipate", "seek", "plan", "believe" or "continue" or the negatives of these terms or variations of them or similar terminology. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these forward-looking statements, which are not guarantees and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, which may cause actual performance and financial results to differ materially from such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only at the date of this press release and, except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company does not undertake to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or otherwise.

* EBITDA is a non-IFRS earnings measure, therefore it does not have any standardized meaning prescribed by International Financial Reporting Standards and may not be similar to measures presented by other companies. EBITDA represents earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization, gain (loss) on disposal of property, plant, and equipment and right-of-use assets, and share-based payments. Management uses this measurement to evaluate the operating results of the Company. This measure is also important to management since it is used by the Company's lenders to evaluate the ongoing cash-generating capability of the Company and therefore the amounts those lenders are willing to lend to the Company. Investors find EBITDA to be useful information because it provides a measure of the Company's operating performance.

SOURCE Waterloo Brewing Ltd.

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Kirk Bertolet, 64, was just starting his shift when shots rang out. He said Thursday that Cassidy worked regularly with the victims. He called them a good bunch of blue-collar people" but said Cassidy stuck out as a loner and outsider.

I know some of those guys, theyll keep joking with you and theyll keep hammering you about stuff. And if youre thin-skinned and you cant take it ... I see that is the main cause of whats going on, Bertolet said.

Sheriffs officials described Cassidy as a highly disgruntled VTA employee for many years," saying that may have contributed to him targeting the workers. Documents show he had worked at the transit authority since at least 2012.

Bertolet, a signal maintenance worker who worked in a separate unit from Cassidy, said he is convinced Cassidy targeted his victims because he didn't hurt people he encountered on the way to the second building, where more shots were fired.

Sam made sure he killed all who he wanted. He made sure they were dead, Bertolet said. I watched some of my coworkers breathe their last breaths, and they were all gone. Seven of them were just gone."
It also misunderstands the spirit of the law, which is to increase public awareness of the frequency and horror of abortion and to bring Texans into the effort to end it.

We as citizens have an interest in protecting the vulnerable among us, Youman said.

Having citizens engaged on this issue and willing to stand up for other Texans, including those who are pre-born, will also serve to shed light on the societal problems that often cause women to consider abortion as their only option. It will force us to address those, as well, she added.

Still, relying on the citizenry to take legal action isnt as straightforward as it sounds. Most people will decline to get involved.

But Rep. Matt Krause, R-Fort Worth, one of the bills co-sponsors, expects the pro-life community to launch a communications campaign.

There are so many crisis pregnancy centers and pro-life groups [that] will play a pivotal role in educating the public in enforcement of the law, said Krause.

Much of the focus of the pro-life movement will be on the announcement Monday that the Supreme Court will take a Mississippi case and review the constitutionality of pre-viability abortion bans. But states like Texas take nothing for granted.
The COVID-19 Community Risk Dials for the Three Rivers Public Health Department jurisdiction continued their decline this week.

The jurisdictions overall risk dial went from 1.85 last week to 1.50 this week.

Dodge Countys risk dial decreased from 1.60 last week to 1.40 this week. Saunders Countys risk dial now sits at 1.70 after being at 1.90 last week. Washington Countys risk dial went from 1.80 last week to 1.40 this week.

The dials have several factors to determine their score, including increases in cases, the average number of new daily cases, the healthcare systems capacity, the presence of community clusters and spread, the ability to contact trace and percentage of those who are vaccinated.

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The dials are color-coded, with green being low, yellow being moderate, orange being high and red being severe. They are also given a number range, with low being below .5, moderate being .5 to 2, high being 2 to 3.5 and severe being 3.5 to 4.

The Three Rivers jurisdiction decreased to 1.50 this week due to an increase in vaccinations and ICU bed availability, as well as a decrease of hospitalized inpatients, a Wednesday press release said. Case counts and weekly positivity trended downward and the ability to contract trace increased slightly.
The Charger Blog

As part of the University of New Havens first Youth and Public Health Conference, high school students from across Connecticut learned about career paths in health sciences as well as what to expect when applying to and, ultimately, attending college. By Renee Chmiel, Office of Marketing and Communications

The Youth and Public Health Conference included high school students from across Connecticut.

Mabintou Darboe 22 MPH says that, as a first-generation undergraduate student, she sometimes felt lost and she wasnt always sure where to turn when she needed advice. She is now helping to ensure that high school students have the support and guidance they need as they prepare for college.

Mabintou Darboe 22 MPH

Darboe recently helped plan the Universitys inaugural Youth and Public Health Conference, a virtual event that enabled first-generation students and those from underrepresented groups to learn more about the many possible career paths in the field of health sciences.

I hope that, after this conference, students will reach out to their teachers, guidance counselors, and admissions officers at their schools of interest, said Darboe, a member of the Universitys Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) student ambassadors program. Most importantly, I hope they learned about the endless career opportunities in the health sciences and that they got a glimpse of what college is about and what to expect.

As part of the conference, students from across Connecticut heard from several University of New Haven professors who are experts in their fields, including Summer McGee, Ph.D., dean of the Universitys school of Health Sciences, and Michele Smallidge, Ed.D., RD., director of the Universitys exercise science program. They discussed the myriad opportunities students would have in the field in areas such as research and networking.

Alvin Tran, Sc.D., MPH and Renee Garcia-Prajer R.D.H., M.S.,  both first-generation students  also shared their own stories and their experiences as the first members of their families to go to college. Garcia-Prajer said that she was so inspired by one of her professors that she decided to continue her education.

Renee Garcia-Prajer R.D.H., M.S. told high school students about the Universitys School of Health Sciences.

You might meet someone whos completely inspiring and that changes things, said Garcia-Prajer, associate dean of the School for Health Sciences. Education is never ending. I continue to learn. You may think you know where you want to go and what path you want to take, and that might change.

I was overwhelmed with joy

Dr. Tran told students about how he helped organize a similar youth and public health conference when he was a student. He encouraged them to keep an open mind as they took advantage of this learning opportunity.

This conference was another successful initiative led by the JEDI Ambassadors, said Dr. Tran, an assistant professor of public health and the Universitys assistant provost for diversity, equity, and inclusion. My students and I wanted to provide helpful resources and information to help high schoolers know how to apply to college and learn about the many careers they can pursue in the health care field."

I strongly believe the University has a role in building and maintaining a positive relationship with our surrounding community, Dr. Tran continued. That's why I was overwhelmed with joy to see so many high school students across Connecticut attend this year's inaugural Youth and Public Health Conference.

The guidance that I wish I had

The high school students also heard from University of New Haven students as part of a panel discussion. They talked about their majors as well as their experiences in college. Caitlin Locke, a senior associate director of undergraduate admissions at the University, also guided students through the process of getting into college.

Caitlin Locke guided high school students through the process of getting into college.

In their post-conference evaluations, the participants cited the discussion about applying to college and adjusting to college life as well as the perspectives from current college students as especially helpful.

The University has opened the gateway to community connection and health in all aspects, keeping the focus on connecting youths through social-emotional learning and giving, wrote a teacher from Bulkeley High School in Hartford in a post-conference evaluation.

Darboe, too, enjoyed taking part in the student panel discussion. She says it was a wonderful opportunity for high school students to get a taste of what college will be like. The hope is that next years student participants will be able to visit the University in person when they attend the conference.

I loved the panel discussion because of how engaged the high school students were, she said. It gave them an idea of what to expect in college and how to manage stress as a college student. This was a highlight because it was rewarding that our attendees, the majority of whom were first-generation and people of color, were getting the guidance that I wish I had when I was going into college.
SIOUX CITY -- A Sioux City man was jailed Sunday on suspicion of setting fire to his next-door neighbors' house because they hadn't mowed his lawn as requested.

Lee Bowman, 53, was arrested on charges of first-degree arson and second-degree criminal mischief. He is being held in the Woodbury County Jail on a $20,000 bond.

Police and firefighters were called to a home in the 3100 block of Eighth Street at 5:57 p.m. Fire investigators found sticks and plywood propped up against the house and evidence that gas had been used in lighting the fire, which caused an estimated $3,000 in damage to the siding, wall and interior of the home.

According to court documents, video captured Bowman visiting the home at 4:21 p.m. to ask the residents when they were going to mow his lawn. Bowman was upset because he had asked them to mow his lawn the day before, and they hadn't. After speaking with the residents, he attempted to peel the registration sticker off of one of the residents' vehicles.
Most members of Afghanistans tiny Hindu and Sikh minority fled to India after devastating terrorist attacks killed and maimed scores of community members in recent years.

But in a hopeful sign, some have returned to Kabul this month from exile in New Delhi, where many faced myriad problems amid a devastating wave of the coronavirus pandemic.

We were facing many problems. We didnt had access to a doctor or medicines and had to pay our house rent, Sandeep Singh, 25, told Radio Free Afghanistan. Finding work was difficult because as refugees we had to obtain visas and were required to register with the police.

Singh left Afghanistan with four relatives after an attack claimed by the ultraradical Islamic State militants killed six members of their family. They were among the 25 Sikh civilians killed in an attack on their Gurdwara or temple in Kabul in March last year. The poorly guarded compound was the last refuge of many among the last few hundred Sikh families who sheltered there after being forced out of their houses across Afghanistan.

Singh has returned to the same temple complex, where the Afghan government is now providing him with security and aid to start a new life. For now, he lives off the $80 he can make each month as a shopkeeper.

Gulraj Singh, another young Sikh man, returned to Kabul three weeks ago after spending more than nine months in New Delhi, which became the epicenter of the second wave of coronavirus infections that has killed tens of thousands in the capital during the past two months.

We were unable to live there [in New Delhi] because it was too expensive and we were repeatedly quarantined, he said.

Last year, Canadian and U.S. officials voiced concerned over the plight of Afghan Hindus and Sikhs. Some 200 families from the community moved to India last year.

Gulraj was among 40 Afghan Hindu and Sikh families who have returned in recent weeks.

One Afghan Sikh man still living in India told Radio Free Afghanistan that the remaining members of their community are likely to follow because of the challenges they face in India.

I can speak some Hindi but have problems with the accent, so it is difficult to communicate, he said while requesting anonymity over fears his critical remarks could create problems for him. It is very difficult to invest here or set up a business while we are expected to pay for our children in private schools because we are not allowed into state schools, he added. In Afghanistan, I had my own business.

Anarkali Hunaryar, Afghanistans lone Sikh senator, says members of her community returned once they were assured security, aid, and economic opportunities by the Afghan authorities.

The Education and Religious Affairs ministries were ordered to help us in every possible way, she told Radio Free Afghanistan. Afghan President [Ashraf Ghani] ordered the Public Works Ministry to add a national cultural day of Hindus and Sikhs of Afghanistan to the official calendar of the country.

On May 25, Ghani met with a delegation of returning Hindu and Sikh community members. Ghani declared them the "pride of the nation" and an integral part of Afghan society. His deputy Amrullah Saleh has promised the community the government will work on swiftly returning the houses and businesses they lost during the past four decades of turmoil in Afghanistan.

Lawmaker Narender Singh Khalsa, a Sikh representative in the lower house of the Afghan parliament, is happy with the governments current response.

The government has provided security to all of our temples across the country, he told Radio Free Afghanistan while acknowledging that the returning members of his community have received cash grants and food aid. We are grateful that the government has responded to our pleas for help, he added.

Gornam Singh, another returning Sikh, is happy to be back but wants the Afghan government to be vigilant about addressing their problems. We are grateful for all the aid the government has given us, he told Radio Free Afghanistan.

At the peak of their presence in the 1980s, Afghanistans vibrant Afghan Sikh and Hindu community was estimated to number more than 80,000. But the onset of a fratricidal civil war in 1992 forced the mostly trading community to flee to India. The collapse of the hard-line Taliban in late 2001 -- which forced community members to wear badges -- encouraged some to return but most had lost their properties and restarting businesses also proved difficult.

Their return could be a good omen for the war-torn country, where the ongoing withdrawal of Western troops is feared to be precipitate a large-scale international exodus.
Reporter

Stephanie Earls is a news reporter and columnist at The Gazette. Before moving to Colorado Springs in 2012, she worked for newspapers in upstate NY, WA, OR and at her hometown weekly in Berkeley Springs, WV, where she got her start in journalism.
Iron Springs Chateau in Manitou Springs will reopen after more than a year with the melodrama, "Honesty Always Wins...or...This Mine is Mine." The show opened and ran for one night last year before being shut down due to the pandemic. It runs through Oct. 2.
Colorado Springs, CO (80903)

Today

Abundant sunshine. High around 85F. Winds SE at 15 to 25 mph..

Tonight

Clear skies. Low 56F. Winds SE at 10 to 20 mph, becoming NE and decreasing to 5 to 10 mph.
US President Joe Biden asked his intelligence agencies on Wednesday to redouble their efforts to find out the origins of the deadly COVID-19 pandemic that has had devastating consequences in countries across the globe.

"I have now asked the Intelligence Community to redouble their efforts to collect and analyze information that could bring us closer to a definitive conclusion, and to report back to me in 90 days," Biden said in a statement.

As part of that report, the president said he has asked for areas of further inquiry that may be required, including specific questions for China.

"I have also asked that this effort include work by our National Labs and other agencies of our government to augment the Intelligence Community's efforts. And I have asked the Intelligence Community to keep Congress fully apprised of its work," he said.

Biden said the United States will also keep working with like-minded partners around the world to press China to participate in a full, transparent, evidence-based international investigation and provide access to all relevant data and evidence.

Back in early 2020, when COVID-19 emerged, Biden had called for the CDC to get access to China to learn about the virus so that the US could fight it more effectively.

"The failure to get our inspectors on the ground in those early months will always hamper any investigation into the origin of COVID-19," he said.

"Nevertheless, shortly after I became President, in March, I had my National Security Advisor task the Intelligence Community to prepare a report on their most up-to-date analysis of the origins of COVID-19, including whether it emerged from human contact with an infected animal or from a laboratory accident," the president said.

"I received that report earlier this month, and asked for additional follow-up. As of today, the US Intelligence Community has coalesced around two likely scenarios but has not reached a definitive conclusion on this question. Here is their current position: while two elements in the IC lean toward the former scenario and one leans more toward the latter -- each with low or moderate confidence -- the majority of elements do not believe there is sufficient information to assess one to be more likely than the other," Biden said.

Also read: US intel agencies probe reports of early COVID-19 infections in China's Wuhan lab

Also read: 3 researchers from Wuhan lab sought hospital care months before COVID-19 outbreak disclosed
Colonial Pipeline forked over $4.4M to end cyberattack -- but is paying a ransom ever the ethical thing to do?

It took little over two hours for hackers to gain control of more than 100 gigabytes of information from Colonial Pipeline on May 7, 2021 -- causing the firm to shut down its fuel distribution network and sparking widespread fears of a gasoline shortage. The decision to pay off the attackers was also made with apparent speed, but the ethical arguments involved are age old and the implications could reverberate well into the future.

Cyberattacks, including those on critical infrastructure in the U.S., are nothing new. Ransomware, a type of malicious software that locks access to a computer until a ransom is paid, has been a component of the cyberthreat landscape since the mid-2000s. But the Colonial Pipeline breach raised the stakes and highlighted the ability of ransomware to interrupt the vital services on which Americans rely.

As scholars of cybersecurity policy, in particular critical infrastructure protection and ransomware, we think it important to consider the legal and ethical questions surrounding ransomware payments -- just because paying off cyberattackers may be lawful in some contexts, that still doesnt make it the morally correct thing to do.

To pay or not to pay

It has been widely reported that the Colonial Pipleline CEO Joseph Blount agreed to pay a US$4.4 million ransom to DarkSide, the Russia-based group behind the cyber attack.

In describing his decision, which he said did not come lightly, Blount argued that it was justifiable given that it was the right thing to do for the country.

Official guidance suggests otherwise. In October 2020, the Treasury Department warned that ransomware payments are a violation of its rules and would only encourage future demands. Although there is no federal legislation, such states as California, Texas and Michigan have cyber-extortion laws on the books that discourage ransomware payments.

Often, though, the decision of whether to pay falls in a legal and ethical gray area.

CEOs can turn to three main schools of ethics in guiding decisions about whether to pay ransoms based on virtues, duties and consequences.

Under virtue ethics, which traces its origins to philosophers Plato, Aristotle and Confucius, people make decisions based on a set of virtues or character traits such as honesty and loyalty. In and of itself, the tradition does not help in situations that require weighing one virtue against another, such as not wishing to reward criminal activity against preventing disruption to the wider American public. For example, Colonial Pipeline CEO Blount expressed a moral distaste in paying people like this, but ultimately decided to override that concern based on other factors.

Another way to approach challenging ethical decisions is through what is called the deontological approach, which holds that actions are good or bad determined by a clear set of rules. So another way to come at the question of whether to pay a ransom is to ask, How does doing so align with recognized universal duties?

The problem with cybersecurity is that, given the rapidly changing technological and regulatory environment, it is not always clear what the golden rules are, or even if any have been established. Some business leaders may even perceive a duty to pay as Blount did, especially in the case of critical infrastructure such as pipelines on which so many people rely.

The ethics of ransomware payments can also be viewed through the consequences of the decision to yourself, your family, your organization and, as Blount suggested, the country and the world. Utilitarian philosophers hold that what is important is promoting the greatest good for the greatest number of people.

This is often described in boardrooms and policy circles as cost-benefit analysis. Yet its not always clear where to put that next dollar of investment to maximize the good and minimize the harm in the long term. In dealing with ransomware, for example, backing up data is key, as is practicing zero-trust security, an approach in which companies assume that their networks are already compromised and act accordingly. But doing so can be complex, and investments might cause fewer benefits than if the money were invested elsewhere.
In response to concerns raised by Twitter over security of its staff members in India, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology released a stern statement asking the microblogging site to comply with the laws of the land.

The social media platform had expressed worry about the safety of its staff in India, days after police visited its office as part of an investigation pertaining to Twitter's tagging of certain posts by BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra as 'manipulated media'. A team from Special Cell under Delhi Police had visited Twitter offices in Delhi and Gurugram on May 25 to serve a notice to the company's country head.

"We, alongside many in civil society in India and around the world, have concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police in response to enforcement of our global Terms of Service," Twitter said, without directly referring to the Delhi Police action.

ALSO READ: Concerned about safety of staff in India, says Twitter

The ministry said it strongly controverts Twitter's claims, which it claimed are "an attempt to dictate its terms to the world's larest democracy". It called the site's concerns "totally baseless, false and an attempt to defame India to hide their own follies".

The central government statement went on to berate Twitter for not complying with the Intermediary Guidelines and even listed instances where MeitY claimed that the social media site failed to prove its commitment to people of India.

Towards the end of its three-page statement, the ministry mentioned that "the government also wishes to emphatically assure that representatives of social media companies including Twitter are and will always remain safe in India and there is no threat to their personal safety and security."

Defending its new social media rules, MeitY reiterated that the Intermediary guidelines empower the ordinary users against defamation, morphed images, sexual abuse and other misdemeanours. These rules were finalised after "widest possible consultations" including representations from social media platforms.

ALSO READ: Centre to online news publishers: Give details on compliance with new rules in 15 days

Twitter had expressed apprehensions over the requirement that makes a single compliance officer criminally liable for content on the platform. The microblogging platform has asked for three months time to comply with the new rules.

"Twitter needs to stop beating around the bush and comply with the laws of the land. Law making and policy formulations are the sole prerogative of the sovereign and Twitter is just a social media platform and it has no locus in dictating what should India's legal policy framework should be," MeitY said.
How Utah secures shared data

To combat the rising number of cyberattacks, Utahs Department of Technology Services is encrypting the data it shares internally and externally with other agencies and private entities.

DTS contracted with Virtru, an encryption company, about five years ago to shore up its enterprise cloud-based email system after finding the administrative tools in its previous solution to be problematic.

Youre somewhat spoiled when you have an on-prem system because youre in full control of everything, and being able to deal with the encryption and handle issues as they come through, said Corona Ngatuvai, enterprise architect at DTS.

Using an outside vendor for encryption makes it harder to perform administrative functions because you have to go through the vendor, he said. The vendor had to communicate with its third-party encryption group, which had to authorize a direct discussion, implement the change and then tweak it based on feedback. It became too cumbersome to manage encryption when there was a middle man, Ngatuvai said.

Virtru works with DTS existing email system, automating the encryption. All users must do is toggle it on or off, depending on the contents of a message. To use it on a mobile device, state workers use an app to encrypt and decrypt messages.

Utahs 26 agencies have different needs for encryption, Ngatuvai said. Certain agencies in the state require all messages to be encrypted, so we put a couple of email gateways in place to say if there are any email communications going from this group to any other party in the state or externally, it has to be encrypted, he said. Other agencies tried that and found it problematic. If I forget that its being encrypted and I just want to order a pizza, I send an email off and the pizza guy is like, What is this?

To adjust for that, users can set a default for the percentage of their emails that must be encrypted -- or they can just turn it on or off.

Ngatuvai said the state has two main use cases for encryption: Back in the day when you had an email system thats on-prem, you had the ability to retract an email, he said. In a cloud environment, no way. Encryption, however, allows users to render messages sent accidentally unreadable.

Similarly, to ensure that someone doesnt forward sensitive content, encryption makes the information readable only by the intended recipients.

Now that everybodys comfortable with encrypted email, DTS has started talking about expanding the service to other datasets, such as documents created as part of collaborative projects or archived data, Ngatuvai said.

Data-centric security works, said John Ackerly, who founded Virtru with his brother, Will Ackerly, a former National Security Agency architect who developed the Trusted Data Format, encryption tech still used within the DOD. Virtrus encryption can be integrated into specific workflows such as email, file sharing and internet of things. Its important for information stored in cloud networks but also for organizations such as state agencies that need to share sensitive data, such as criminal justice, health or payment information.

They also need to collaborate with thousands of external organizations, so we enable states to embrace the cloud, move sensitive data into these cloud systems and then share data with third parties while always maintaining control over that content, John Ackerly said.

Maryland began using Virtru in 2015 to shore up its use of Google tools such as Gmail and Google Drive. They embed the platform into automated workflows, including but not limited to email because data comes off many endpoints, such as file sharing.

In Utah, an ongoing challenge is ensuring that encryption is seamless for users. For example, one system requires them to log in with two-factor authentication, but if they are using a new device, it asks for additional security information. Thats a safeguard against bad actors acquiring someones credentials, but it happens in the background and is triggered only when necessary.

Adapting to encryption takes some cultural change. To smooth the process, Ngatuvai recommends making workers aware of whats happening and how it will keep them safe.

When you think about Buckingham Palace and those guards with the fuzzy hats, you can show that picture and automatically people have some idea of what youre talking about and where, he said. I think thats what we wanted to accomplish here with our encryption and our use of it: When you see this icon on your desktop, its secure.

Editor's note: This article was corrected May 28 to say that the Trusted Data Format is still used within the DOD, not the CIA.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Far more Americans are receiving unemployment benefits than the last time the jobless rate was at the current 6.1%, thanks to a major expansion of the federal safety net that has provided aid to millions of people out of work.

Yet many businesses and Republican officials say all that jobless aid has contributed to worker shortages in some industries, which is why most GOP-led states are moving to cut off the federal support.

About 15.8 million people received unemployment aid through one of several benefit programs during the week of May 8, the latest period for which data is available, according to a Labor Department report Thursday. Thats nearly eight times as many people as received jobless payments in August 2014, when the unemployment rate was where it is now and roughly the same proportion of adults had jobs.
Brandon Parcel, American Legion 4th District Vice Commander, will be the featured speaker at the annual Memorial Day services in Osage on Monday, May 31.

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The American Legion Post #278 of Osage will begin the day by raising flags from 5:30-6:30 a.m. at the Osage Cemetery. A breakfast at the American Legion will follow from 6:30-7:30 a.m.

From 8-8:30 a.m., there will be a Memorial Day Service at St. Peter's Cemetery in New Haven.

The parade line-up begins at 9:30 a.m. at the Osage Cooperative Elevator. The parade begins at 10 a.m. and will travel north along Third Street North to the Osage Cemetery.

The annual Memorial Day program will begin at 10:30 a.m. The invocation and benediction will be offered by Senior Pastor Cindy Krause, Our Saviors Lutheran Church, at the service.

The Gettysburg Address will be recited by Osage High School graduating senior Mary Miller.

Following Parcel's speech, a moment of silence will follow.

The VFW Ladies and Legion Auxiliary will also take part in the ceremony. A rifle salute by the Post 278 Memorial Squad, and the playing of taps by Matthew Johnson, echo Alexa Thyer, will conclude the ceremonies.
The beauty of Elmwood/St. Josephs Cemetery did not happen without planning, this city came together to honor their deceased. Planning began early to set the stage for a respectful and dignified cemetery with the following:

The Cerro Gordo Republican ran this notice to promote the cemetery:

Fellow Citizens, come out in the name of humanity and common decency and let not the place where we inter our dead be a wilderness and a stigma upon the town. Let it rather be an ornament and a place wherein we shall not be ashamed to show a friend the last resting place of those that were once dear to us.

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Ella C. Brightman Cliggitt was both a member of the Ladies Cemetery Improvement Association and an individual who worked at the forefront to beautify the cemetery grounds and make them accessible to the citizens of Mason City. Born in New York in 1855, arriving in Mason City in 1871 with her parents she married John Cliggitt in 1878.
Averett University inked an agreement Wednesday eliminating some hurdles for students wanting to obtain a law degree.

The Danville-based university is partnering  for the first time  with Appalachian School of Law in Grundy to provide two new educational pathways. Representatives from both schools signed the partnership agreement Wednesday.

We are thrilled to partner with Appalachian School of Law to bring a structured, seamless path to our students who want to pursue their law degree, Averett University President Tiffany Franks said in a statement. This partnership is a shining example of how two student-centered institutions are working together to fulfill workforce needs and demands, including those in rural communities, as well as provide upward mobility to diverse students through financial assistance and clear pathways for progress.

The agreement has two possible paths for students. In a three-plus-three dual-degree program, Averett pre-law students who meet certain qualifications will spend three years at Averett in undergraduate study and receive their baccalaureate degree upon completing the first year of law school, the university explained in a news release.
Singh had worked as a light rail train driver for eight or nine years and had a wife, two small children and many family members, said his cousin, Bagga Singh.

We heard that he chose the people to shoot, but I dont know why they choose him because he has nothing to do with him," he said. He said he was told that the gunman targeted certain people and let others go.

San Jose City Councilman Raul Peralez said Rudometkin was a close friend. There are no words to describe the heartache we are feeling right now, especially for his family, he wrote on Facebook. Eight families are feeling this same sense of loss tonight and our entire community is mourning as well.

The attacker was identified as 57-year-old Sam Cassidy, according to two law enforcement officials. Investigators offered no immediate word on a possible motive.

His ex-wife, Cecilia Nelms, told The Associated Press that Cassidy had a bad temper and would tell her that he wanted to kill people at work, but I never believed him, and it never happened. Until now.

Nelms, teary-eyed and shaken by the news, said her ex-husband would come home wound up and angry about things that happened at work. As he talked about it, he would get more mad, she said. He could dwell on things.
NEW YORK  The white woman who was widely condemned and fired after a videotaped dispute with a Black birdwatcher in Central Park filed a lawsuit against her former employer, accusing the company of not doing an investigation before her termination because of her race and gender.

In her federal lawsuit, Amy Cooper said the company, Franklin Templeton, "nurtured" the idea of the confrontation last May as "a racial flashpoint, characterized as a privileged white female 'Karen' caught on video verbally abusing an African American male with no possible reason other than the color of his skin."

She said in the lawsuit it wasn't racism that led her to call police but fear, because she was alone and being "aggressively" confronted, and that the company would have known that with an investigation.

Cooper, who had been working as a portfolio manager at the investment firm until she was fired in the backlash to the call, accused the company of discrimination, saying an investigation would have been done if she were not a white woman.
Two years ago, I took part in a powerful event in Leesburg highlighting the continued fight against the Mountain Valley Pipeline, a project that has harmed my community, our regions water, and the livelihoods of many of my constituents. People gathered that day to celebrate Appalachia and to bring our lived experiences and perspectives to the northern part of the state. We joined together in messages of solidarity for environmental and climate justice.

What I shared with the crowd that day in Leesburg still rings true: There is no need for the MVP, and it should be cancelled.

Over the past two years, MVPs construction has polluted creeks and streams in Virginia and West Virginia, dried wells and ponds, and ruined farms. The company proved it could not prevent massive amounts of sediment from choking our streams, with state officials eventually ordering a fine of over $2 million for over 300 violations of the project permit. This destructive process  conducted on private land, seized for corporate greed  has resulted in the loss of livelihoods for many in the communities I represent.
 Recovery scholarships to help low-income students with their college bills, childcare, rent, transportation or other expenses. These grants would be $500 per semester for UNC System and community college students and up to $875 per semester for students at private colleges.

 Summer school grants (no specific amount) for students at public and private universities and community colleges.

 Finish line grants of up to $1,000 per semester to help students who are least halfway toward a college degree cover financial emergencies, such as a medical bill or a broken-down car. Students at all N.C. institutions (public, private and community college) would be eligible for these grants

The operative word here is proposal. Cooper's plan still has to go through the woodchipper known as the legislature, and the Republicans who control the House and Senate haven't looked too favorably in recent years on proposals put forth by the Democratic governor. Still, it's a starting point, and we'll see what happens in coming weeks. Both chambers are still working on their budget bills, and it's not yet clear what the final plan for spending North Carolina's share of the American Rescue Plan money will look like, much less whether it will be included in an upcoming budget bill or in separate legislation.

Staff writer John Newsom covers higher education for the News & Record of Greensboro and the Winston-Salem Journal. Have something to say about this blog post? Email him at john.newsom@greensboro.com. You can also follow him on Twitter at @JohnNewsomNR. Support his coverage of higher education. Click here and here to learn about digital subscriptions the News & Record and the Journal.

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I dont believe in taking away anything from one department to give it to another, said Alston, a Democrat.

He said the county needs to do more to correct whats been a neglect of funding for schools, but that it cant all be done in one year.

They have gotten to such a bad position that we are in emergency mode, he said.

Michael Halford, the county manager, recently released a proposed budget that recommended $13.4 million in additional funding for the schools annual budget. He said thats the biggest increase in 20 years. It is about 6% more funding than the county gave to the district last year.

He recommended increasing the budget for law enforcement, which includes adult detention, by about $3 million  or about 5% more than the county gave last year.

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Money budgeted for vacant positions does not vanish if the positions are not filled. Instead, county commissioners can typically spend whatever is leftover on other projects or priorities.

Halfords budget for the county as a whole includes some money for merit raises, and for some strategic pay increases to help the county be more competitive in attracting and retaining employees. Those dont include the schools.
Share of Balaji Amines has delivered more than 600 per cent returns to its shareholders in the last 12 months. The share stood at Rs 404.6 on May 27, 2020. It has zoomed to Rs 2,899.10 today, translating into gains of 614.37 per cent during the period. In comparison, Sensex clocked 62 per cent in one year.

Rs 5 lakh invested in Balaji Amines share a year ago would have turned into Rs 35.82 lakh today.

The stock has gained 212.6 per cent since the beginning of this year. It ended 4.35 per cent higher at Rs 2,899.10 against the previous close of Rs 2778.35 on BSE.

The share of Balaji Amines stands higher than 5 day, 10 day, 20 day, 50 day, 100 day, and 200-day moving averages. Market cap of the firm rose to Rs 9,393.37 crore.

Rajesh Agarwal, Head of Research, AUM Capital Market, told Business Today, "BAL's major thrust is to expand its portfolio of key derivative products along side entering newer specialty chemicals from both vertical integration and operating efficiencies,"

"The company also plans to expand its export market over the medium to long term, given the eagerness of global companies to reduce their exposure to Chinese sources of suppliers. The steady demand from Pharmaceutical and Agrochemical industry that comprises more than 70% of the revenue mix along with higher price realization bodes well for the company from a growth perspective," he noted.

"Q4 numbers have been strong and with the first phase of Greenfield project commencing operations for the manufacturing of Ethyl Amines with a capacity of 50 tons per day, the numbers are likely to get better going forward," he added.

The company reported a profit of Rs 84.5 crore for the quarter ended March 2021 compared to Rs 29.5 crore in the year-ago quarter. Revenue from operations in Q4FY21 rose to Rs 414 crore against Rs 258 crore in Q4FY20.

EBITDA margin for Q4FY21 stood at 30.30 per cent, up by 669 basis points, as compared to 23.61 per cent in Q4FY20. The improvement in operating margins was primarily on account of better price realisations across most of the products and an increase in operating leverage due to a surge in volume offtake.

On the earnings performance, D. Ram Reddy, Managing Director said, "We witnessed improved demand and price realizations across most of our product portfolio, leading to much improved operating leverage and better margins. However, pandemic-related disruptions of both inbound and outbound logistics support, as well as lack of adequate supply of industrial oxygen, resulted in lower than optimal production.

"Our state-of-the-art new plant of Ethylamines, having installed capacity of 50 tons per day (16,500 tons per annum), which is part of Phase 1 of our 90-acre Greenfield Project (Unit IV) at Solapur has commenced operations from last week. Now, along with the pre-existing capacity of 6,000 tons of Ethylamines, the company has the largest installed capacity of Ethylamines in India at 22,500 tons per annum."

He further said, "With the commencement of this plant, Balaji Amines is the largest manufacturer of Methylamines, Ethylamines and other chemicals in India. The new plant of Ethylamines at Unit IV will lead to a lower cost of production due to new technology. There was a slight delay in the commencement of this new plant on account of pandemic led disruptions."

The company also informed that its subsidiary company - Balaji Specialty Chemicals Private Ltd. - witnessed a substantial ramp-up in capacity utilisation due to an increase in demand for Ethylenediamine (EDA).

The company is currently manufacturing 1,300-1,500 tonne per month, which will be further ramped up going forward, once the supply of raw material eases.

Balaji Amines Ltd (BAL) is a leading manufacturer of Aliphatic Amines in India. Broadly, the company is specialised in manufacturing Methyl Amines, Ethyl Amines, Derivatives of Specialty Chemicals, and Natural Product and its business is broadly classified into three segments - Amines, Specialty Chemicals, and Derivatives.
While we agree with the universitys decision to remove Washington Manly Wingates name from the building, we were angered and dismayed by our exclusion from the selection of the new name for Wingate Hall, the association said. May 7, 1860 stands as a day of trauma for the individuals who were ripped from their families, and represents a day in history where Black people were sold in a transaction that benefited the university.

The university through its media office declined further comment beyond the message Hatch sent out Wednesday.

Hatch said he asked Donna Edwards, a 1980 graduate and a former Maryland congresswoman, and Vice President Jose Villalba to lead a committee focused on clarifying the objectives in selecting a name for name for Wingate Hall and collecting and understanding the Wake Forest communitys concerns, reactions and suggestions for a new name.

The committee will complete its work by June 30 and will advise the schools president on its findings, Hatch said. Hatch is scheduled to retire June 30.

We are fully committed to listening and understanding, as well as seeking a solution that appropriately honors the enslaved and fulfills our ethical commitment to accountability, Hatch said.
A Pentagon report is expected to be released to the American people on June 1 that we hope will provide some answers.

Earlier this week, President Biden charged U.S. intelligence agencies with examining persistent claims that COVID may have been man-made and may have leaked from a laboratory in China. Some have ridiculed the claim as one more conspiracy theory among many, meant to shift blame from former President Trumps fumbled response to the pandemic. Others, though, are convinced and are now saying, See? We told you so. What else did you dismiss that could be true?

But belief and instinct can err. Just like with UFOs, the time to believe a claim  especially an extraordinary claim  is not when it sounds good or confirms a political agenda, but when the evidence supports it.

Some QAnon conspiracy theorists are now proposing that the recent interest in UFOs is intended to distract us from their claims of a stolen election. But the interest has been growing for years. And by that logic, any news topic could be seen as a distraction from any other news topic. At some point, each of us must take responsibility for deciding which distractions will receive our attention as the most relevant and consequential.

Aside from the serious implications of aircraft that can outperform any with which were familiar, UFOs still carry an air of mystery, wonder and sheer fun that we hope the Pentagon report doesnt entirely erase  though we hope even more that it will assure us that were safe.
"I think these educators show the strong attachment people have to Hawthorne," Sherlock said.

Sherlock shared his favorite fact about Hawthorne: Two U.S. senators, Max Baucus and William Roth (who is the namesake of the Roth IRA), both attended school there.

The trees planted along the avenue are Green Lindens that were donated by Growing Friends of Helena. Covered handmade signs expressing thanks to the educators are only temporary. Alberts said there will be permanent plaques installed by the end of the week.

"Thank you for the love, compassion and energy you put out," Alberts said to the educators. "We feel it here still. Hawthorne is home."

Jacobsen, former principal of 28 years, said she was overjoyed to be visiting the school again after retiring last year.

"You know this is my home, so it's wonderful to be here," Jacobsen said. "Hawthorne is just such a wonderful neighborhood school."

Jacobsen said she hasn't been back to Hawthorne since retiring. She had been by the building, but hadn't been inside. Jacobsen said she regularly calls Alberts, but hadn't even been back to see the finished remodel project that she oversaw.

But Jacobsen said that is fine because the school is in good hands.

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The expected vote is emblematic of the profound mistrust between the two parties since the siege, which has sowed deeper divisions on Capitol Hill even though lawmakers in the two parties fled together from the rioters that day. The events of Jan. 6 have become an increasingly fraught topic among Republicans as some in the party have downplayed the violence and defended the rioters who supported Trump and his false insistence that the election was stolen from him.

While initially saying he was open to the idea of the commission, which would be modeled after an investigation of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell turned firmly against it in recent days. He has said he believes the panel's investigation would be partisan despite the even split among party members.

McConnell, who once said Trump was responsible for provoking the mob attack on the Capitol, said of Democrats, Theyd like to continue to litigate the former president, into the future.

Still, a handful of Republicans  if not enough to save it  were expected to vote to move forward with the bill. Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski has said she will support the legislation because she needs to know more about what happened that day and why.
A 4-year-old boy was attacked and killed by two dogs believed to be Rottweilers at a house near Whitehall on May 9, Jefferson County Sheriff Craig Doolittle said Wednesday.

Doolittle said the case was still under investigation and autopsy results werent finalized, so there were things he could not comment on until they were complete.

But he told The Montana Standard the attack occurred inside the boys grandparents' house on Cedar Hill Road, off of Highway 2 west of Whitehall, shortly before 6 p.m. on May 9. He identified the boy as Elliott Sherwin.

There was an ambulance called there from Jefferson Valley EMS, Life Flight was called and the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene, Doolittle said.

We were not the first ones on the scene, he said. The ambulance showed up and they did work on him for a while but he was deceased.

The two dogs were believed to be Rottweilers and both have been euthanized, he said.

Doolittle said specifics of what happened and whether the dogs had ever been aggressive were still under investigation, and all findings would be turned over to the Jefferson County Attorneys Office for review and consideration of any charges.
By design, no one in attendance worked for DEQ, EPA, the Natural Resource Damage Program or the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

Two local government employees attended: Jordan Green, chief administrative officer for the city of Deer Lodge; and, Scott Hazelton, planning director and floodplain administrator for Powell County.

Brian Chaffin, a professor at the University of Montana, was the meetings moderator.

Kathy Hadley said the cleanup work that has occurred since the release in 2004 of the EPAs Record of Decision for the Clark Fork River Operable Unit has discovered a greater quantity of tailings than was anticipated. The settlement money secured from the Atlantic Richfield Co., deemed responsible for cleanup because of its 1977 merger with the Anaconda Co., isnt adequate, she said.

We dont get from where we are to where we want to be without a lot more money, Kathy Hadley said.

She said later the Clark Fork River Technical Assistance Committee received grant funding from the EPA from 1991 to 2015. Once DEQ became the lead agency the EPA withdrew funding, she said. For a time, the committee received some funding for DEQ but it wasnt enough to pay for even part-time staff, she said.
Clearcuts and logging roads are very bad for grizzly bears, since most grizzlies killed by poachers are within 500 yards of a logging road. Why? Because clearcuts dont provide any hiding cover from poachers and its much easier to hunt a grizzly from a truck on a road than hiking through a thick forest.

Clearcuts are also bad for species like lynx and goshawks that depend on old growth forest habitat. Lynx avoid clearcuts for up to 50 years for many reasons, but mainly because the snowshoe hares  their primary food source  arent there. Snowshoe hare feed the world of forest carnivores, but after a clearcut the hare are all either eaten by predators since theres no undergrowth to hide in, or they leave for better habitat. When there are no hare, lynx starve to death.

Wildfire is often given as a reason to clearcut. The twisted thinking is that if the trees are gone there cant be a forest fire. Of course this is not true. Wildfires burn through clearcuts full of weeds much faster than through thick forests because there are no trees to slow the wind  and high winds are the primary drivers of large wildfires.
Our Supreme Court justices must think they are the executive branch and the legislative branch all rolled into one! They may even believe they are the new oligarchy in charge of Montana. Whatever their problem, it is manifesting itself in executive and legislative authority being usurped by Montanas Supreme Court.

The examples are legion of our judiciary overstepping their authority. Consider this: can you imagine the Supreme Court of Montana threatening the Montana attorney generals state attorneys with disbarment if they continue to look into the courts wrongful, maybe even illegal, activities?

Montanas Attorney General Knudsen said, There is also some irony in accusing these fine attorneys of disrupting the administration of justice when their clients (the people) argument is that it is constitutionally, legally and ethically improper for the court to attempt to administer justice in this matter.

The real question is, what is our Supreme Court hiding?
DECATUR  The Decatur native who is president of the Black Chamber of Commerce of Illinois is denying allegations of financial wrongdoing.

It is in good consciousness that I can truly state that I have not used the organization's funds for my personal gain, said Anthony Corey Walker in a statement Thursday.

WAND-TV on Wednesday reported that William N. Burch, former chairman of the groups board, questioned spending by Walker and said he didnt provide financial information for certain purchases.

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Walker in his statement said any purchases raised by Burch were made with Walkers own money.

I have all documentation to support my position and will be moving expeditiously to clear up this matter," he said.

The chamber was founded in 2015.

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Microblogging platform Twitter has expressed worry about the safety of its staff in India, days after police visited its office as part of an investigation pertaining to Twitter's tagging of certain ruling party posts as 'manipulated media'.

Delhi Police on May 25 visited its office to serve a notice to the company's country head.

"We, alongside many in civil society in India and around the world, have concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police in response to enforcement of our global Terms of Service," Twitter said, without directly referring to the Delhi Police action.

Also Read: Delhi Police raids Twitter's Delhi, Gurugram offices in 'Toolkit' case

A political slugfest recently erupted between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress over a "toolkit" allegedly readied by the latter. Several top BJP leaders, comprising Union ministers, tweeted portions of the document, claiming it was created by Congress.

The "toolkit" allegedly highlighted the Centre's failure in tackling the COVID-19 pandemic. Following this, Congress complained to Twitter saying the document was fake, after which the microblogging platform marked some of the posts as "manipulated media."

Twitter has been battling with the Indian government since February after the technology ministry asked it to block content alleging the government was trying to silence criticism related to farmer protests in the country.

Following the showdown, India announced new IT rules that aim to make social media firms more accountable to legal requests for swift removal of posts.

Also Read: Why Facebook, Twitter, Instagram could be banned in India from tomorrow?

On Thursday, Twitter urged the technology ministry to give it three more months to comply with the new content regulation rules, which include the appointment of an Indian grievance officer to deal with complaints.

Twitter said it was very concerned the rules made the compliance officer criminally liable for content on the platform, adding that the move represented a dangerous overreach.

India's technology ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The new IT rules have spurred legal battles, including a lawsuit filed by Facebook-owned WhatsApp this week which calls out India's government for exceeding its legal powers by enacting rules that will force the messaging app to break end-to-end message encryption.

(With inputs from Reuters.)
NASHVILLE, Tenn.  A former McLean County Unit 5 teacher from Forsyth pleaded not guilty Wednesday to charges involving sexual violence against a minor in Nashville, Tennessee.

Jonathon Hovey, 49, of Forsyth, Illinois, entered the pleas to one count of rape and one count of sexual battery by an authority figure when he appeared in Davidson County, Tennessee, court.

I believe in him very much based on what has happened in this area in the past, Hoveys attorney, David King, told The Pantagraph. Based on the outcome in Illinois, I expect a similar result down here in Tennessee.

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Hovey taught first grade at Glenn Elementary in Normal until he was arrested by Normal police in August 2019 and accused of sexually assaulting two students. The state schools superintendent suspended his teaching license in October 2019.

Hovey pleaded not guilty to those six charges  two counts of predatory criminal sexual assault and four counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse  before they were dismissed in September 2020.

King said he expects Hovey to maintain his not guilty plea throughout the case.

Contact Kelsey Watznauer at (309) 820-3254. Follow her on Twitter: @kwatznauer.

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SPRINGFIELD  The Springfield City Council is considering getting the same kinds of license plate-reading technology that Decatur has adopted to address curb crime.

Atlanta-based Flock Safety made a presentation to the council this week, Steven Spearie of the The State Journal-Register reported.

Springfield police are considering 80 cameras at a cost of $2,500 a year to have "a positive impact on reduction of crime," said commander of field operations Andrew Dodd, the newspaper reported.

Flock representative Dan Murdock during the Springfield meeting mentioned the new Decatur cameras, Spearie reported, and that about 50 Illinois municipalities and counties have the cameras.

Both Decatur and Springfield have faced ongoing issues with gun violence and killings.

Decatur's cameras through Flock were purchased for $165,000 and funded between the city and the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, which is also working to improve the Johns Hill area through various projects.

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Decatur has denied a Freedom of Information Act request from the Herald & Review seeking the locations of the 60 cameras. The denial cites that "disclosure would result in demonstrable harm to the agency or public body ..."

The technology has raised privacy concerns from groups like the watchdog group Lucy Parsons Lab, where Executive Director Freddy Martinez told the Herald & Review in April that the cameras allows "for the collecting of granular details of where people live, where they shop and where they go to the mosque or church or whatever."

Decatur police Chief Jim Getz has said the cameras are an important tool in addressing crime.

We, the police, are not monitoring those cameras 24 hours a day and were not putting them on anybodys house. But, when a crime is committed, we can go back and look and see if we can locate the vehicle or the person who is responsible for that crime. That is the only thing those cameras are going to be used for," he said.

The Springfield purchase will require city council approval.

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DECATUR  The hottest subject in the Decatur Public Library right now is the air conditioning, or rather the lack of it.

The downtown buildings HVAC failed at the end of last week and, with temperatures getting steamy, the buildings landlord  the city of Decatur  is taking emergency action to get it fixed.

On Wednesday, Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe issued an emergency proclamation authorizing City Manager Scot Wrighton, in consultation with herself, to arrange for the repairs to be made. Current estimates on the cost range from roughly $20,000 up to $40,000.

Deputy City Manager Jon Kindseth said the city council normally pre-approves big expenditures but, with no meeting scheduled until June 7, the library couldnt be left to broil amid its volumes for that long. He said the city council will ultimately have to sign off on the repair expense, but this is an urgent situation.

I think a normal building can regulate its own temperature for a short period of time before it really starts to heat up the concrete and all the other things and turns it into an oven, said Kindseth.

We cant wait until the June 7 city council meeting to get those repairs done, otherwise it will cause a disruption to the library and the community as a whole.

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Kindseth said a public proclamation lays the actions of the city open for everyone to see and informs everybody about why emergency measures are being taken.

The proclamation and swift response came as welcome news to Assistant City Library Director Robert Edwards. He said library operations were so far continuing as normal but that might change if the mercury soars into the mid or upper 80s or beyond.

If it gets too hot, we will definitely be calling it quits, he said Wednesday evening, as the temperature at the front desk, where a fan was running, hovered around 82 degrees. We are monitoring the temperatures every couple of hours.

Edwards said some library staff who can work remotely are being allowed to do so. For example, our Information Technology person went home to work remotely today because in his area the air is just not circulating so there is a lot of humidity there, added Edwards. The temperature in his area got up into the mid-80s.

Edwards said technicians are scheduled to be in the building and making repairs on Tuesday, June 1.

I was hoping for tomorrow, he said with a smile.

Contact Tony Reid at (217) 421-7977. Follow him on Twitter: @TonyJReid

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DECATUR  Rows of police officers stood at parade rest waiting for the casket containing the earthly remains of Officer Chris Oberheim on Wednesday, patient and so silent that you could hear birds chirping in the trees surrounding Maranatha Assembly of God.

But when the shouted order came from the doors of the church, every spine snapped straight and every officer came to attention. A second shouted order, and every one of them saluted, while the pipe and drum corps played and the flag-draped casket was carried to the waiting hearse.

Parked in front of the church was a Champaign police car, draped in black ribbon. Members of the Patriot Guard stood ready with flags and a motorcycle escort for the hearse, waiting in the still, muggy air.

As the police vehicles lined up for the procession to the cemetery in Monticello, seemingly every agency in Illinois was represented: Orland Park; Streamwood; Deerfield; East Peoria; O'Fallon, Ogle County, Libertyville, Kendall County; and many more. The Decatur and Champaign police departments were represented by several vehicles each. Officers from other states, including Indiana and Texas, also joined the procession.

Oberheim was killed early May 19 during a shootout at an apartment complex. Officers had gone there in response to a report about a domestic disturbance and encountered the armed suspect. A second officer was wounded. The suspect, 24-year-old Darion Marquise Lafayette of Champaign, was killed in the shootout.

Champaign County court records show Lafayette had previous arrests for domestic violence and drug possession.

A 1994 graduate of Stephen Decatur High School, Oberheim began his law enforcement career as a Decatur police officer. He served the department for seven years before he joined the Champaign Police Department in 2008. His younger brother, Joe, still is with the Decatur department.

A procession carrying Oberheim's body left the church before 1:30 p.m., traveling along the west side of Decatur to Interstate 72 en route to Monticello for burial in Monticello Township Cemetery.

The crowds lining the procession route became silent, many with their hands over their hearts, as the hearse and a line of police vehicles passed by.

Liz Bartimus taught Oberheim and his siblings at Mound School in Decatur and attended his funeral. Oberheims brother, Greg, is married to her adopted niece, Michelle.

Teachers never know how students will make their mark on the world but I always knew Chris and his siblings would do well wherever they landed because they were raised with lots of love and a strong work ethic, she said Listening to Chris' service, his commitment to his family, community and job left a large impact on many people. The ripple effect of his death will be felt for a long time. I never really understood the support and family created when becoming a first responder until today. It was palpable and visibly evident all around me...many glistening eyes among the men and women in blue.

Oberheim lived in Monticello with his wife and four daughters and was very active in the community.

Although many were unable to attend the funeral services, the Monticello community wanted to show their appreciation, support and love for the Oberheim family. Hours before the procession was scheduled to arrive, the route to the Monticello cemetery was lined with flags, blue bows, lawn chairs and people ready to honor the fallen officer.

Ashlee Burton, owner of an apartment building on State Street, was tying blue bows around pillars in front of the building. They are for the officers that go out and fight for our community, she said. We just want them to know that we support them.

The blue bows, purchased as a fundraiser from the Monticello Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club, were displayed on various buildings, vehicles and signs since the announcement of the funeral procession route. I have four here and more that Im putting up at home, Burton said.

Burton said she is close with extended Oberheim family members. But Im trying to give them space, she said.

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Further down State Street were retired couple Ted and Kathy Bachman, who also spent Wednesday morning attaching blue bows to the columns of their home. They just came in last night, Ted Bachman said.

The funds are going to go to a charity of Ambers choice, Kathy Bachman said, referring to Oberheims wife.

The couple recently returned to Monticello after living and working in Chicago, but did not know the Oberheim family. However, they still wanted to honor the fallen officer.

Especially during this time where police are disparagingly having funding taken away, Ted Bachman said. And here this guy gives his life.

The towns reaction to Oberheims death and his family made an impression on the Bachmans.

Something like this affects everybody, Ted Bachman said.

Cari Loudenburg brought two of her children, Asher, 11, and Ellasyn, 14, to a spot along Market Street in Monticello. They stood waiting for the funeral procession holding a blue and black striped Thin Blue Line flag. My husband is a police officer in Bloomington, Cari Loudenburg said as she fought back tears. This is a good experience to see.

The family understands the worries of sending their father and husband to work as a patrol officer. We felt heartbreak for the family, Loudenburg said. This is a really bad time for officers in general.

The funeral procession was the first for the Loudenburg children. However, they have attended police rallies with the Thin Blue Line Flag in the past. To show our support for the police, Asher said.

As the time grew closer for the police officers arrival, the bystanders discussed the impact on Monticello, schools and families.

Louanna Miller and her husband David Miller waited with neighbors and community members along State Street. Its been very somber this week, Louanna Miller said about the atmosphere. The last few days when they started putting up flags to line the procession route, that made it even more somber.

The couple have witnessed the community come together for the Oberheim family as well as for one another. In a small town like this, thats what people do, David Miller said.

The couple placed a wreath, decorated with red, white and blue flowers and draped with blue and black ribbon, near the edge of the road. The plan was to use the patriotic door decoration for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend. But Im going to leave it that way, Louanna Miller said. Its a difficult time for family, friends, for our community, for the country.

As the Piatt County School Mental Health Clinician, Louanna Miller spent much of the past week in the schools providing support and counselling for students and teachers. The conversations revolved around tragic loss and unexpected death, according to Louanna Miller. I talked to a lot of staff and teachers too, she said.

Along with classmates and teachers, the therapist spoke with children of other police officers. Just because of the suddenness and the reality of this, she said. And now its been brought home to our small town of Monticello with an officer that lives here.

With the Oberheim death so recent, advice is not needed, according to Louanna Miller. At this point, its really listening, she said. Everybody is in a state of shock at that time.

Contact Donnette Beckett at (217) 421-6983. Follow her on Twitter: @donnettebHR

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Donnette Beckett "Together Decatur" Columnist and Food/Drink Reporter Together Decatur columnist and food and drink reporter for Lee Enterprises Central Illinois. Follow Donnette Beckett Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today
In the upper left corner of a large mural painted in Adam Toledos memory at the intersection of Ogden and Lawndale avenues is a very sharp, black-and-white sketch. Its a drawing of a car with detailed spokes and boxy, clean lines.

The image came straight out of the spiral notebook the teen sketched in, his family members said, just minutes before they stood shoulder to shoulder beneath the mural Wednesday to announce plans to open a rural haven in his name for youths growing up in troubled city neighborhoods.

The announcement came on what would have been Toledos 14th birthday, and the plans for Adams Place, as outlined by his mother, described something that many might take for granted: a place to run around freely, learn and grow with friends without getting lured astray.

Toledo was shot and killed March 29 by a Chicago police officer in a Little Village alley during a foot chase.

Today would have been Adams 14th birthday. It is hard for me to say these words, Elizabeth Toledo said in a statement read by her attorney. I wish he were here and we were having pizza and cake, just something simple like that. ... What I really want is to have Adam back and I cant do that. But we can try to help other families protect their sons from the temptations that took Adam into the street that night, the night that he was killed.

Adams Place would be a setting where teens like him can stay out of trouble, the statement said.

We want (Adams Place) to be the kind of place where boys can run around and learn to love the outdoors. We want Adams Place to be the kind of place where boys can learn and grow and have a chance to fulfill their ambitions.

The new effort is modeled after the Boys Farm program in South Carolina that provides a rural residential facility for youth. The Toledo family and their advisers are in the process of securing land in Wisconsin for the home. They have established as a not-for-profit corporation and set up a board of directors, with hopes to break ground within a year and build housing to accommodate up to eight young boys from Chicago and a barn to house livestock.

Toledo was shot after officers responded to a call of shots fired near 24th Street and Sawyer Avenue. Ruben Roman, 21, was arrested during the chase and later charged with several felonies, including for firing a gun on the street that night and endangering the life of a child.

The familys announcement came the same day Chicago police announced a new policy intended to control and head off dangerous foot pursuits like the one that ended with Toledos shooting.

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Toledo had secretly left their house prior to the shooting, the family said, in a statement issued before the event Wednesday.

Despite his parents best efforts, he snuck out of the house the night he died, lured by older youth and the thrill of the street, the statement said.

Ogden and Lawndale, where the mural in Toledos honor was erected and the event was held, is a busy intersection, a part of the city that has struggled for decades with persistent gun violence and is near some of the citys sharpest gang dividing lines.

The stakes are high for many young people in communities that have suffered decades from lacking resources, poverty and poor access to jobs. Some experts have argued that policymakers have for too long relied on police, rather than social services, to find solutions to the deeply entrenched gang problems that drive much of the violence.

Just hours before the Wednesday event, the mural itself was vandalized and painted over with gang symbols, a tactic of disrespect common among factions. An attorney for the family denounced the desecration during the news conference. And later, the artist, Milt Coronado, said he was sad to see the damage.

Somebody damaged my work. Thats minimal. But they continue to lash out and throw stones at this family this way, and thats what really hurts, he said.

The damage, however, had been repaired by community members and Coronado before the Toledo family stood on the stage, beneath the image.

At the event, Toledos older sister, Esmeralda Toledo, 24, spoke at length, her voice breaking, about watching her brothers little mustache begin to grow and his voice start to change.

One mistake he made, she said, should not have cost so much.

Adam was 13. He deserved to be here right now celebrating his 14th birthday with his friends and family, she said. He was a kid who was just learning his way around the world and he deserved the chance to make mistakes and learn from them as we all do and we have before. Because no one is perfect.

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After 25 years as U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin's state director, Sangamon County Democratic Party chairman Bill Houlihan has decided it is time to step away from Durbin's team.

"I've been doing this for a long time," Houlihan said. "I've been in public service for over 40 years and just thought there's other things I want to do in addition to working all the time."

Friday will be his last day on Durbin's staff.

Houlihan, 67, joined Durbin during his 1996 campaign and spent the next 25 years serving on Durbin's state director. Prior to that, Houlihan was also on former U.S. Sen. Carol Mosely-Braun's staff for four years.

He said the highlight of his career was "just being able to work with Sen. Durbin and do all the things we've done in all the communities across Illinois."

Houlihan's departure is a big change for Durbin. The two have worked together as Durbin ascended the ladder of the U.S. Senate from being Illinois' junior senator to the Democrat majority whip  the third-highest ranking Democratic position in the Senate.

"It hurts to lose a man who has given me such a big part of his life," Durbin said in an emotional speech on the Senate floor Monday. "It's going to take a toll on my office, my politics and my life, but I can guarantee you I'll be calling Bill as often as I always have."

Houlihan worked as a downstate director for Mosely-Braun and Durbin, then took the role of statewide director for Durbin in 2014. He said getting to work with people on federal issues throughout the state will be his best memories, including bringing high-speed rail capabilities to central Illinois.

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What he really will remember, however, are the moments his relationship with Durbin provided for his family.

"We were celebrating an 80th birthday for my dad and Sen. Durbin and his wife were invited," Houlihan said. "(Durbin) had something on his schedule and the senator took it on himself to have the commandant of the Marine Corps call my dad and wish him a happy birthday. That was a very touching moment in my family."

Houlihan's dad was a World War II Marine Corps veteran. Durbin also got then-Vice President Joe Biden to call his mom on her 90th birthday, which lead to a 20-minute conversation he said his mom was very thankful for.

"You work hard in this business, you try to help people, you try to do the right thing. The small things (Durbin) did for a lot of people were really big things for a lot of people," Houlihan said.

Durbin called him "the voice for people whose hopes and needs aren't heard enough in the halls of the Senate or the halls of power."

Houlihan is not done with politics, however. In April, he was elected Sangamon County Democratic Party chairman for a term expiring in April 2022  a position he previously held from 1988 to 1994. He is also the state central committeeman in Illinois' 18th Congressional District for the Democratic Party.

Houlihan lives in Springfield with his wife, Cindy. Durbin, also a Springfield resident, said the Houlihans are the "best and dearest friends" to him and his wife, Loretta.

Durbin got emotional concluding his floor speech on Monday, crediting Houlihan for helping him have a successful Senate career.

"Thank you, I couldn't have done it without you," Durbin said.

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SPRINGFIELD  The former longtime chief of staff to former House Speaker Michael Madigan was indicted Wednesday for allegedly lying under oath and attempting to obstruct justice.

Tim Mapes, who also formerly served as the House clerk, was granted immunity in connection with the federal investigation into potentially criminal efforts by officials and lobbyists with Commonwealth Edison to curry favor with Madigan in exchange for favorable energy legislation. Madigan has not been charged and denies wrongdoing.

The indictment came with just six days remaining in the legislative session as ComEd was among several interest groups negotiating a massive energy regulatory overhaul bill with lawmakers in the General Assembly.

Mapes allegedly lied to the grand jury when he testified in March about whether he had knowledge about Madigans sensitive communications with an unnamed consultant, who is only identified as Individual B in the indictment.

He also lied about whether he knew that the consultant carried out work and assignments on behalf of the former speaker and communicated messages on his behalf, the indictment states.

Andrew Porter and Katie Hill, lawyers who represent Mapes, said in an emailed statement that Mapes testified truthfully to the grand jury. They are attorneys with Chicago-based Salvatore Prescott Porter & Porter, PLLC.

His honest recollections - in response to vague and imprecise questions about events that allegedly took place many years ago - simply do not constitute perjury. This case, of course, is not about himbut about the governments continued pursuit of his former boss. Tim Mapes has in no way engaged in obstruction of justice, and looks forward to prevailing at trial when all of the facts are aired, Porter said in the email.

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In July 2019, ComEd officials admitted to participating in a yearslong bribery scheme aimed at influencing Madigan. Through a so-called deferred prosecution agreement, the company agreed to pay a $200 million fine in exchange for cooperating with the investigation.

Mapes is also former clerk for the House of Representatives and former executive director of the Illinois Democratic Party. His indictment is the latest fallout from the federal investigation into ComEds lobbying efforts.

Former ComEd executives Anne Pramaggiore and John Hooker, as well as former ComEd lobbyist Michael McClain, who is a close Madigan confidant, and consultant Jay Doherty were also indicted.

Mapes resigned as Madigans chief of staff and as House clerk in June 2018 after an investigation into the workplace culture of Madigans office found Mapes contributed to a culture of bullying pervasive throughout the Capitol system.

Republican House Minority Leader Jim Durkin, of Western Springs, said in a statement that the indictment of Mapes underscores the criminal enterprise operated under the dome by former Speaker Michael Madigan, also known as Public Official A.

Whitney Barnes, spokesperson for Republican Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie of Hawthorn Woods, also blasted the Democrats in the General Assembly, calling for them to pass a comprehensive anti-corruption package that would empower the Illinois Attorney General to investigate and prosecute corruption on the state level instead of waiting for the federal government to intervene.

The indictment of former long-time Speaker Madigans chief of staff underscores the desperate need to pass anti-corruption legislation in the next five days, Barnes said in a written statement.

Spokespeople for House Speaker Emanuel Chris Welch, of Hillside, and Senate President Don Harmon, of Oak Park, declined to comment on the indictment.

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The Biden administrations American Jobs Plan talks about a climate crisis and an affordable housing crisis in its attempt to address the countrys infrastructure crisis. But before it can make serious progress on any of those issues it will need to address another crisis: federal permitting.

President Joe Biden recently met with Republican senators to discuss building bipartisan support around infrastructure. His American Jobs Plan proposes spending an estimated $2.3 trillion, plus $400 billion in tax credits, to be offset by $2.1 trillion in additional tax revenue. Objectives include modernizing 20,000 miles of roads, 10,000 bridges, replacing lead drinking water lines, 100% national broadband coverage and, most ambitious of them all, overhauling the entire U.S. economy to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

But the federal government stands in its own way in accomplishing any of those goals. Many large infrastructure projects, especially linear projects such as utility lines that can cover hundreds of miles of right-of-way, are subject to a slew of federal, state and local permits and other authorizations. Most prominent among those is the National Environmental Policy Act, known as NEPA.

The average time to complete an Environmental Impact Statement  the type of analysis required for most major infrastructure projects  is 4.5 years, with some reviews taking over 10 years, according to a 2020 report from the White House Council on Environmental Quality that examined submissions from 2010 to 2018. Once approved, the most controversial projects, which are often also the largest, are subject to litigation from opponents searching for any vagaries in the law or process that they can exploit, delaying projects by an average of another two years.

In 2020, the White House Council on Environmental Quality revised the NEPA regulations for the first time in more than 40 years. The 2020 reforms established a "One Federal Decision" framework to streamline the approval process, providing senior level oversight of the timeline and limiting the length of submissions. For substantially similar activity, the reforms allowed for the re-use or substitution of environmental documents and public input processes conducted under other environmental laws. To help reduce litigation over interpretations of the rules, vaguely written regulatory language was clarified with more specific guidance.

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Upon rollout of the revised NEPA regulations in 2020, businesses both large and small from nearly every part of the U.S. economy issued statements supporting the changes. Unfortunately, the reforms have been challenged in multiple U.S. courts by both environmental groups and several states, prompting the Department of Justice to ask for time to review the reforms so the Biden administration can submit its own version.

In the meantime, there are ominous indications that the rapid expansion of clean energy infrastructure in the U.S. is already running into permitting problems. Perhaps one can take comfort in the single line in the American Jobs Plan that refers to smart, coordinated infrastructure permitting, but color me a skeptic.

A bipartisan approach to NEPA permitting reform is still possible by focusing on these three key elements:

 Implement the "One Federal Decision" framework to structure interagency coordination.

 Establish presumptive time limits for approvals, reinforced by senior level oversight by the department leading the review.

 Authorize greater use of the existing trove of federal, state and tribal environmental documents and administrative processes.

These reforms wont address all the reasons for delays, but they will help. The country has a solid foundation to create sensible permitting reform  lets not waste valuable taxpayer funds in a slow and inefficient pursuit of the next generation of American infrastructure.

Stuart Levenbach has held positions in three presidential administrations,

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LINCOLN  Storms are on the way to Central Illinois, and meteorologists say some may be severe.

A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for Sangamon and Morgan counties and severe storms were located in the area of Jacksonville and farther south.

The National Weather Service in Lincoln also issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the majority of counties south of Interstate 74, including Champaign, Christian, Coles, DeWitt, Logan, Macon, Piatt and Shelby counties.

The watch is in effect until 7 p.m. and the warning is set to expire at 1 p.m.

Weve got a line of storms off to the west running from Peoria down through Springfield, said Scott Baker, a meteorologist in Lincoln. Were expecting the system to continue to continue to move east through that afternoon.

According to the National Weather Service, As the atmosphere becomes unstable this afternoon, storms may become severe.

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Baker said the major concerns from these storms are strong winds up to 60 mph, a chance of hail and cant rule an isolated tornado.

Most of Central Illinois, including McLean, Macon and Coles counties, will likely see the majority of their storms after 4 p.m. with temperatures in the high 70s and low 80s through the afternoon.

The strongest part of the storm is expected to be in the Decatur area by about 2 p.m. and in the Mattoon and Charleston area around 4 p.m., Baker said.

Some showers and storms may continue into the evening, and they may linger into Friday morning, but the main line probably should be heading out later this evening, probably about 6 or 7 p.m tonight pushing off to the southeast, he said.

The sky will then clear up throughout Friday and leave cooler temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees in Central Illinois, giving a little bit of relief from the hot and humid conditions weve had this week, Baker said.

The Memorial Day weekend is expected to be dry with temperatures in the 60s and low 70s.

Contact Kelsey Watznauer at (309) 820-3254. Follow her on Twitter: @kwatznauer.

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Our plan was, if there were too many of them coming, were running the other direction, he said, laughing at the thought.

After the Army, Dickens tried his hand at construction.

I was down here at Radford and that wind was howling through, and I was trying to put an air conditioning unit on (top of a building) and I decided that wasnt my bag, so I went down and signed up for community college here at Wytheville.

After two years at Wytheville Community College, and one year at East Tennessee State University, Dickens earned an industrial arts degree to be a shop teacher. He started at Saltville Elementary School and remained an educator for 30 years.

Dickens had been carving for fun since his 20s. After retiring from teaching in 2002, he began to take art more seriously. He tried painting.

I had never had any art lessons, so my painting was just extremely detailed. Id paint every pore in the face and every mole and all this stuff and nobody wants that. But with birds and animals, thats what you want, the extreme detail, it works out that way. You do that with carving a person and they really get offended with you, they dont like it, he said.
US pharma major Pfizer has told the Centre that its COVID-19 vaccine is "highly effective" against the COVID-19 strain prevalent in India. The pharma giant has also reportedly sought fast-track approval for its coronavirus vaccine.

Presenting data to support its claim, Pfizer told authorities that its vaccine has demonstrated "high effectiveness" against the COVID-19 variant prevalent in India and on the people of Indian ethnicity or nationality.

The company added that its vaccine is also suitable for everyone aged 12 years or above and can be preserved for a month at 2-8 degrees. Earlier this week, Pfizer told the Centre it was prepared to offer 5 crore dosages of its vaccine to India between July and October this year.

Also Read: India, Pfizer seek to resolve dispute over COVID-19 vaccine indemnity

However, the company has sought certain relaxations comprising indemnification.

"The current situation in India, and across the world, is not business as usual' and we must not respond to it with processes as usual too," a source quoted Pfizer as having communicated to the Indian government, the PTI reported.

Another source privy to the discussions said that following recent meetings between the Indian government and Pfizer's Chairman and CEO Albert Bourla, they have agreed to jointly work on three key issues to accelerate approval for the company's COVID-19 vaccine in India, namely procurement through a central government pathway; indemnity and liability; and the regulatory requirement for post-approval bridging studies.

While India has administered over 20 crore doses so far since the launch of its vaccination drive in mid-January, it is still a long way to reach the vaccination for the entire population, more so in the backdrop of many states having flagged shortage of vaccines and the gap between supply and requirement widening amid the deadly second wave.

India is currently using mainly two 'made-in India' jabs Covishield manufactured by the Serum Institute and Covaxin of Bharat Biotech and Russian-made Sputnik V at a smaller scale to inoculate its population, all of which are approved only for those aged 18 years and above.

In its latest communication to the government, Pfizer has also thanked the Centre for having agreed to its request for procurement through a central government pathway and to discuss "the Indemnity and Liability protection".

"The timely alignment and execution of the draft Heads of Terms will enable Pfizer to reserve the allocation of doses and pave the pathway for executing the Distribution and Supply Agreement," the company told the government while seeking fast-tracking the regulatory pathway to help it supply "Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine as expeditiously as possible to India".

Also Read: Centre asks Pfizer, Moderna and J&J to supply COVID-19 vaccines to India

Pfizer has said India should "rely on the 44 authorisations, including WHO approval, facilitate an EUA (Emergency Use Authorisation)/Restricted Use pathway for the Pfizer vaccine in India, and not seek a local PSA (Post Approval Commitment) study."

The company is, however, open to considering safety surveillance of the first 100 subjects after understanding the process to be followed.

It has also stated that the Pfizer vaccine has undergone significant development over the last six months which includes improvement in storage conditions at 208 degrees for over one month (31 days) at the site of vaccination.

"Recent data points confirm the high effectiveness of BNT612b2 2-dose regimen against SARS-CoV-2 variants, and among individuals of Indian ethnicity," Pfizer said.

Providing data, it said the UK's Public Health England (PHE) reported high vaccine effectiveness (87.9 per cent) against the B.1.617.2 variant, most reported in India, in an observational study (concluded on May 22, 2021).

Also Read: Pfizer, Moderna won't sell COVID-19 vaccines directly to Delhi

It further said 26 per cent of study participants overall were of "Indian or British Indian" ethnicity, and also included Bangladeshi (1.4 per cent), Pakistani (5.9 per cent), and any other Asian background (5.7 per cent), indicating that the observed vaccine effectiveness applies to these groups as well.

Also, the data from Qatar's nationwide immunization program demonstrated high vaccine effectiveness - 89 per cent against B.1.1.7 variant (first detected in the UK) and 75 per cent against B.1.351 variant (first detected in South Africa).

It said 24 per cent of study participants were of Indian nationality (more than 6,000), and others included Nepalese (6-12 per cent), Bangladeshi (4-11 per cent), Sri Lankan (3-4 per cent), Pakistani (4-6 per cent), indicating that the observed vaccine effectiveness applies to these groups as well.

(With inputs from PTI.)
BRISTOL, Tenn.  Music partners from both sides of the state line gathered at the Paramount Center in downtown Bristol on Wednesday to announce a website geared toward revamping Bristols music scene and the Bristol Summer of 21.

Im very excited to be a part of the summer of 21 music initiative, said Bristol Tennessee Mayor Mahlon Luttrell. Music is and has been such a vital part of both Bristols economies.

The website, BristolSummerMusic.com, will feature upcoming events, musical artists and venues.

Some of the featured artists, concert series and venues of the Bristol Summer of 21 include Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit, Believe in Bristols Border Bash and The Bristol Hotel.

I dont have to tell why music is important and vital to Bristol, but Im going to anyway, joked Logan McCabe, who manages community outreach and engagement for Bristol Motor Speedway.

Although Bob Dillion was born 80 years ago this week, McCabe said, it was 14 years earlier in a warehouse in Bristol where country music was born. He was referring to the Bristol Sessions.

Despite the pandemic shutting down so many nonessential businesses last year, Luttrell said the music never really stopped in Bristol.
Currently, the lack of access does hamper their ability to ask questions, find their own good information  correct and true information, Shelton said. We have addressed this by a lot of people whove called the health department or called the pharmacy or the health care provider. Weve encouraged people to help families, friends, neighbors who may not have access and sign them up  especially the elderly population.

She said Southwest Virginia health departments are trying to zero in to reach people without ready access and those unable to travel significant distances.

This new move where we distribute the vaccine in smaller increments and through more local providers will go a long way with helping people to access their local physicians and have local health care providers give them that one-on-one information, she said. Unfortunately, a lot of people who are not interested in the vaccine may not go to a health care provider regularly or have one, so we need to continue [exploring] how we can best message in these areas.

Another issue is some Southwest Virginia residents receive health care and their vaccine in another state, she said.

Some of our challenges are data acquisition. Currently, vaccines given out of state do not show up in our counts and  as we border North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky and West Virginia  this makes it challenging to discern our true vaccine numbers, Shelton said. Virginia is working to access this data.

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Along the way, the rodeo site moved to land still owned by Coleman but on a different parcel that had a deed restricting certain businesses from being located on the site.

That restriction remains a point of contention among county officials and citizens, though Nelms has proposed an amendment to the deeds for all property owners in this set of tracts to include rodeo as part of the permitted uses.

According to Richardson, when the rodeo moved to the other site, the organizers should have applied for a special-exception permit, but no one did.

Richardson said a summons would have been issued if the rodeo was held without a permit.

We dont have the power to go out and stop them, Richardson said. But if they do it, they are subject to a penalty for violation of the zoning ordinance.

Up for prize money

Earlier this year, Nelms began preparing for the rodeo but did not discover that a new special-exception permit was needed until after work had been completed and rodeos scheduled.

In all, Nelms has proposed five rodeos for this spring and summer.
Moret said recovery will depend on each regions dynamics.

Some [employment] sectors are likely facing a longer return or, in some cases, may not fully return. Tourism, local retail, restaurants, hospitality are areas that are going to take longer to come back, Moret said. While Moodys expects the commonwealth as a whole to get back to total employment  where we were  by the middle of next year, they expect the mix of employment will be different. We will have more jobs in technology and business services, fewer jobs in hospitality and non-essential retail.

Moret said state officials believe tens of thousands of people wont be able to return to their previous job or their previous occupation, but will find a new line of work.

Sectors expected to see job growth include cloud computing, data centers, e-commerce, food and beverage processing, commercial truck and delivery vehicle production, logistics and broadband.

Moret also said smaller metro and rural areas likely wont be able to capitalize on the trend of people working remotely.
In hindsight, it should be clear that Warner was always a serious man even before he was legally one: He volunteered for the U.S. Navy during World War II before he even turned 18. He came back from war, went to Washington and Lee University and the University of Law School  then went to war again, as a Marine in Korea. And yet somehow Warner was considered a dilettante. He married into money, gave a lot of it to Richard Nixons presidential campaign, and was named undersecretary, and eventually secretary of the Navy. That was seen as a political payoff. Later, Gerald Ford named him head of the Bicentennial Commission, which further shaped Warners public persona as a little more than a wealthy glad-hander. Oh how wrong we all were.

In 1978, Virginia had an open U.S. Senate seat. Republicans, a party on the rise, gathered in a legendary convention that filled the Richmond Coliseum  and drew four candidates seeking the prize. One of those was John Warner. He was rich, he was glamorous (married at the time to the actress Elizabeth Taylor). He was also considered a little too moderate and a little too unpredictable for the conservatives who had gained control of the party. It took six ballots, but Richard Obenshain prevailed; Warner finished second. Less than two months later, Obenshain was dead  in a plane crash that forever scrambled Virginia politics.
He said that Jordan Rivera provided the other men with the weapons used in the robbery and got rid of the weapons after the crime.

Reand Rivera, Powell and Ussery have all pleaded guilty to charges and been sentenced. Curtis is currently scheduled to stand trial in July.

Jayne told the jurors they would hear differing accounts of the events during the trial and emphasized that it was their duty to carefully and critically consider the credibility and motives of witnesses.

She also said that Jordan Rivera and Ramseur had been reestablishing their relationship in the years before the murders and that Rivera and Ramseur were involved in the marijuana trade together.

Jordan Rivera had no reason to want harm, to cause harm, to wish for harm to either Deidra Ramseur or Mark Wilson, Jayne said.

She added that Jordan Rivera faced an unfathomable dilemma when he learned about the murders because both the victims and at least some of those responsible were family or close friends of his.

Victor Wilson, Mark Wilsons brother, was the first witness called to testify.

He recalled going to his brothers house with his sister on March 14, two days after the murder, to check on his brother.
Hickory Jazz Orchestra to perform Sunday

The 13th annual Swingin Under the Stars performance will be held in downtown Hickory under the sails Sunday, May 30, from 6:30-10 p.m.

This free, outdoor event features the Hickory Jazz Orchestra under the leadership of founder Rick Cline. The group will perform classic 1940s-era big band arrangements from the great American songbook.

Swingin Under the Stars is presented by the city of Hickory and hosted by the Hickory Music Factory. This event was the 2009 winner of the Best Outdoor Event for N.C.

In addition to the swing music and dancing, the Hickory Music Factory will pay tribute throughout the evening to several members of the community, incorporating its yearly HMF tribute concert as part of this evening.

This years tributes include Bob Sinclair, Dave Walker, Bill Graham and Rick Cline. Hal Rowe, from Hickorys own WHKY, will emcee the event. A commencement will take place at 6:15 p.m. followed by an opening prayer, military flag detail and a 21-gun salute military firing detail.
SOUTHWICK, Mass. (AP)  A Massachusetts woman who accidentally tossed out a $1 million lottery ticket eventually collected her winnings thanks to the kindness and honesty of the owners of the store where she bought it.

Lea Rose Fiega bought the $30 Diamond Millions scratch-off ticket in March at the Lucky Stop convenience store in Southwick near were she works.

"I was in a hurry, on lunch break, and just scratched it real quick, and looked at it, and it didn't look like a winner, so I handed it over to them to throw away," she said Monday.

The ticket lay behind the counter for 10 days.

"One evening, I was going through the tickets from the trash and found out that she didn't scratch the number," Abhi Shah, the son of the store's owners told WWLP-TV. "I scratched the number and it was $1 million underneath the ticket."

Fiega is a regular customer, so the family knew immediately who had discarded it.

Shah went to see Fiega at work.

"He came to my office and said 'my Mom and Dad would like to see you,'" she said. "I said 'I'm working,' and he said 'no you have to come over.' So I went over there and that's when they told me. I was in total disbelief. I cried, I hugged them."
According to a Columbia School of Journalism statement, Twenty-three Republican Senators and nineteen state Attorneys General have signed letters denouncing the 1619 Project.

Why?

In its introduction to the Hannah-Jones report, the Times asserted that the moment that the countrys defining contradictions first came into the world was in late August of 1619.

That was when a ship arrived at Point Comfort in the British colony of Virginia, bearing a cargo of 20 to 30 enslaved Africans. Their arrival inaugurated a barbaric system of chattel slavery that would last for the next 250 years. This is sometimes referred to as the countrys original sin, but it is more than that: It is the countrys very origin.

The goal of The 1619 Project is to reframe American history by considering what it would mean to regard 1619 as our nations birth year. Doing so requires us to place the consequences of slavery and the contributions of black Americans at the very center of the story we tell ourselves about who we are as a country.
" " This statue of Scotland's hero king, Robert the Bruce, was unveiled in 2011 at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland. Diane Macdonald/Getty Images

One of the most famous  fine, infamous  episodes in the biography of Robert the Bruce occurred Feb. 10, 1306, when Robert arranged a meeting with his longtime political rival, John "the Red" Comyn, inside a church. The two men openly despised each other, says Michael Brown, a professor of Scottish history at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. The last time they'd met, Comyn had to be pulled off Robert's throat.

The meeting took place at a moment of high political tension in Scotland following the failure of William Wallace's armed uprising against the English King Edward I, who refused to allow Scotland to crown its own monarch. But that didn't stop people like Robert and Comyn, both leaders of powerful Scottish clans, from hatching schemes and hastily forming alliances to claim the Scottish throne for themselves.

"There's an awful lot of plotting going on in Scotland in 1305 and 1306," says Brown, author of "The Wars of Scotland: 1214-1371."

No one knows exactly what went down inside that church in the town of Dumfries or what kind of deal Robert proposed to his bitter rival, but the negotiations quickly broke down.

"It gets out of hand, the two men draw swords and Robert the Bruce's men are quicker or perhaps better prepared," says Brown. "Comyn and his uncle are cut down."

Whether it was a planned assassination or a crime of passion, Robert murdered Comyn at the church altar, simultaneously breaking the laws of God and man, and turning him into both an outlaw and an outcast.

While that's a wild story, what's even more amazing is that Robert the Bruce, this brazenly ambitious character, mounted a comeback in which he not only became king of Scotland, but won Scottish independence from the hated English. While Robert the Bruce isn't as "pure" a Scottish hero as Wallace, who was immortalized by Mel Gibson in the movie "Braveheart," he's still a legendary figure of Scottish national pride.

" " Isabella MacDuff, Countess of Buchan, crowns Robert the Bruce at Scone in 1306, from a modern tableau at Edinburgh Castle. Wikimedia Commons (CC BY SA 3.0)

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What's the Backstory on Robert the Bruce?

Robert was born July 11, 1274, into the wealthy and politically connected Bruce family. His father's line came from Northern France as part of the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, so they all spoke French. His official name would have been Robert VIII de Bruce (as in Robert VIII of the Bruces), and historians like Brown have no idea why it shifted to Robert le Bruce (Robert the Bruce) not long after his death in 1329.

He wasn't the first Bruce to set his sights on the Scottish throne, either. The whole brouhaha with Comyn dated back to a rivalry between Robert's grandfather, nicknamed "the Competitor," and Comyn's uncle, John Balliol. When the Scottish king died without an heir, both Robert's grandfather and Balliol lobbied Edward I with claims to be the next rightful ruler of Scotland, but Balliol prevailed and was crowned king in 1292.

Brown says that Robert and his grandfather's royal ambitions wouldn't have been seen as selfish or power-hungry in their day. Scottish nobles of the medieval period were raised to be fierce competitors whose sole purpose was to increase the clan's landholdings and status.

"You defend and extend what you inherit and pass it on," says Brown. "If an opportunity comes and you don't take it, that shows that you're 'lacking.' Both Bruce and his grandfather are of that same mold. It's something that's built into their job as the head of the family."

As it turned out, Robert's grandfather dodged a bullet. Balliol's rule was short (just four years) and unpopular (the Scots nicknamed him Toom Tabbard or "Empty Coat"). In 1296, a band of Scottish noblemen seized power and aligned with the French. Edward I invaded, stripped Balliol of the throne and decided to rule Scotland as a feudal holding of England.

William Wallace wasn't having it. In 1297, the Scottish rebel launched a guerilla military campaign against English rule in Scotland. In "Braveheart," the movie depicts Robert the Bruce betraying Wallace at the fateful Battle of Falkirk, where the kilted rebel was routed by the English. But Brown says such a meeting likely never happened. What's true is that Robert originally backed Wallace's rebellion before capitulating to Edward I in exchange for keeping his lands.

Wallace famously made no such deal and paid a horrific price for it, with Edward ordering him hung, disemboweled, drawn and quartered, and his head placed on a spike on London Bridge.

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Robert Credited His Comeback to a Spider

That brings us full circle back to the moment when Robert kills Comyn at the church altar. In England, Comyn's murder was decried as an "outrageous sacrilege inhumanly committed against God and the holy Church" and Robert was declared public enemy No. 1.

Instead of laying low, Robert saw this as his moment to cement power. He won absolution from the Bishop of Glasgow and rallied support among Scottish noblemen. (Not all of them, though. Many, says Brown, still saw Robert as a "terrorist.")

On March 26, 1306, just weeks after killing Comyn, Robert the Bruce was crowned king of Scotland in direct repudiation of the authority of Edward I, who didn't take open rebellion lightly. Edward recruited Scottish clans still loyal to Comyn and went after Robert's forces.

During the summer of 1306, Robert's army was handily defeated in a string of battles. Far worse, three of his brothers were captured and brutally killed (hung, drawn and quartered, of course), and Robert's wife and daughter were held prisoner in England.

According to legend, Robert fled to an island off the West Coast of Scotland to hide out for the winter. It was there, in a coastal cave that Robert had a life-changing vision. He saw a spider dangling from a silken thread trying over and over again to weave its web. And each time it fell, it pulled itself up to try once again. Robert vowed that he, too, wouldn't give up until the battle was won.

"Scottish writers intended [the apocryphal spider story] to be seen as a kind of penance," says Brown. "Robert the Bruce had done wrong, broken God's law and had to pay a price. The defeats, the slights, the death of his brothers, the imprisonment of his wife and daughter, are all part of that. Once he's expiated the sins he committed, it's all about Robert not giving up, not capitulating."

" " Historic King's Cave, set in sandstone cliffs near Blackwaterfoot on the Isle of Arran, is one of several locations in which Robert the Bruce is said to have had his famed encounter with a spider. Atw Photography/Getty Images

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Victory at Bannockburn and Independence

Back in the fight, Robert used guerilla tactics to inflict damage on the English forces, but those small victories failed to align all of the Scottish noblemen behind his authority as the true king of Scotland. In 1313, Robert issued an ultimatum  that all of Comyn's loyalists join him or give up their lands, and that the English forces in Scotland surrender.

Edward II, the new (and inept) heir to the English throne, led a massive invasion of Scotland with 25,000 infantry and 2,000 cavalry riders, to face down a regular Scottish army of some 6,000 and change.

The turning point came at Bannockburn, an epic battle that quickly became shorthand in Scotland for independence and national honor. Over two days, the undermanned Scots outwitted and outfought the English, and Robert more than proved his mettle as a fierce fighter and inspiring leader of men. Edward II fled back to England and released Robert's wife and daughter in exchange for captured English noblemen.

More importantly, the decisive victory at Bannockburn convinced the last of Comyn's supporters to throw their full weight behind King Robert I of Scotland. The war with the English went on for another 14 years before another English King, Edward III, finally signed the Treaty of Edinburgh-Northampton in 1328 that granted full independence to Scotland.

Robert the Bruce died just a year later, having achieved everything he sought out to achieve for both his clan and his country. It wasn't always a clean fight, but victory was his.

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Now That's Cool After Robert's death, Sir James Douglas was tasked with delivering the king's heart to the Holy Land, but Douglas was waylaid at a battle against the Moors in Spain. Charging against the enemy, Douglas reportedly threw the heart before him and cried, "Lead on brave heart! I'll follow thee!"
Reko Diq copper mine (Photo Credit - Reuters)

Islamabad [Pakistan], May 27 (ANI): A British Virgin Islands (BVI) High Court on Tuesday released the frozen assets of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) hotels in Paris and Manhattan from a USD 6 billion pay-out to Tethyan Copper Company (TCC) in Reko Diq case verdict reversal.

Following the historic legal victory, PIA has again received ownership of its hotels located in the US and France and other properties, reported Pakistan Today.

BVI High Court Justice Gerhard Wallbank, while passing the order on December 10, 2020, had attached certain assets belonging to PIA, including the company's interests in two hotels -- Roosevelt Hotel in Manhattan, New York, and Scribe Hotel in central Paris - as well as the erstwhile frozen 40 per cent interest of PIA in a third entity, Minhal Incorporated.

The court had issued the order after the TCC approached it for enforcement of the USD 5.97 billion award against Pakistan by the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes in Reko Diq litigation on July 12, 2019, reported Pakistan Today.

Justice Wallbank has ruled in favour of Pakistan after a review appeal the country submitted on the November 2020 verdict in which TCC had won an award of USD 6 billion, about the size of IMF's bailout package to Pakistan, to be paid by Pakistan and in turn asked the court to freeze its assets registered in BVS remits.

Moreover, the High Court has further ruled the litigation expenses incurred by the country in the review appeal will also be recompensed by TCC.

Earlier this year, the legal team of Tethyan Copper, a gold and copper exploration company involved in Balochistan to develop the Reko Diq mine, visited Islamabad to settle the billion-dollar dispute with the government, reported Pakistan Today.

According to Civil Aviation Authority, the office of the Attorney General had requested a travel permit for the team from February 9 to 15. Following the AG office's request, the team was allowed to visit the country.

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In 2013, the Supreme Court, in a long-running dispute between the Balochistan government and TCC -- a joint venture between Chile's Antofagasta and Canada's Barrick Gold -- over the right to develop a USD 3.3 billion copper-gold deposit, ruled against the latter, citing imbalanced stakes.

According to the original agreement signed in 1993, Balochistan holds a 25 per cent stake in the project, with Tethyan holding the remaining 75 per cent, reported Pakistan Today.

Subsequently, in July 2019, a World Bank arbitration court ordered the government to pay damages of USD 5.8 billion to Tethyan.

Since then, the government is in talks with Tethyan to settle the dispute. "We have been engaged in negotiations with parties involved in the Reko Diq dispute," said an official who is part of the team handling negotiations, without providing further details, reported Pakistan Today.

The parties have been in talks for an extended period since Tethyan in 2018 expressed willingness to explore a negotiated settlement, Reuters quoted a second official as saying in 2019.

Reko Diq, located in Pakistan's southwestern province of Balochistan, is one of the world's biggest untapped copper and gold deposits. Development of the asset has been stalled for nearly a decade by the long-running dispute. (ANI)
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Beijing [China], May 27 (ANI): Australian diplomats were denied access to the closed-door trial of Chinese-born Australian writer Yang Hengjun, who has been charged with espionage, on Thursday, amid rapidly souring ties between Beijing and Canberra.

On Thursday morning, Australia's Ambassador to China Graham Fletcher was prevented from watching the proceedings of Yang's trial, with the COVID-19 pandemic given as the reason, reported South China Morning Post (SCMP).

"This is deeply regrettable and concerning and unsatisfactory... We have had long-standing concerns about this case, including the lack of transparency, and therefore have concluded that it is an instance of arbitrary detention," he told reporters outside the court.

Fletcher further said consular officials had access to Yang last month, and would continue to provide support to him and his family.

Yang has been in detention for more than two years and if he is found guilty, which is likely given China's 99.9 per cent conviction rate, the Australian writer would be facing between 3 years in jail and life imprisonment.

Yang was detained in 2019 and later transferred to a facility in Beijing, where he was allegedly subjected to torture and interrogated hundreds of times.

His wife, Yuan Ruijuan, who is an Australian permanent resident, told Australian media that Chinese officials had prevented his lawyers from sharing information about the case with her as it involved national security.

The 56-year-old former Chinese diplomat and naturalised Australian citizen was first detained in China in 2011 but was released due to international pressure ahead of then Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard's visit to Beijing.

Meanwhile, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian on Thursday said that comments made by Australian diplomats interfered with China's judicial sovereignty and Beijing seriously objected to that.

He further claimed that the Chinese judicial system had protected Yang's rights and allowed visits from the Australian embassy and had preserved other consular rights, SCMP reported.

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Last week, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne said that Canberra had raised its concerns over the treatment of Yang and the "lack of procedural fairness in how his case has been managed", including depriving him of access to his family and allowing only limited access to legal representation, and the lack of evidence for the espionage charge.

"I very much hope that we have a transparent and open process. We're not interfering in China's legal system; the concerns we have raised are legitimate ones. But we do expect those basic international standards of justice to be met... We have not seen any explanation or evidence for the charges that have been brought against him," Payne said on Australian radio.

SCMP reported that in March, a letter written by Yang to his supporters in March was released by Australian media on Wednesday, where he said that the criminal charges were lodged against him to "take revenge" for his writings.

"I will face suffering and torture with resilience. Please explain to the people inside China what I did, and the significance of my writing to people in China," he said.

Relations between China and Australia have been in a downward spiral since April last year when Canberra infuriated Beijing by proposing an independent international inquiry into the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chinese-Australian journalist Cheng Lei, who worked for a Chinese state-run broadcaster in Beijing, has been detained in China since August on national security charges, and the last two accredited reporters for Australian media in mainland China fled the country over fears for their safety, SCMP further reported.

Foreign diplomats and journalists were also prevented from attending the trials in March of Canadians Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, both of whom were detained in December 2018, soon after the detention in Canada of Chinese businesswoman Meng Wanzhou. The verdicts in the trials have yet to be revealed to the public. (ANI)




Pfizer

27 May 2021: Pfizer's vaccine works against B.1.617 variant, firm tells Indian government

Pfizer has told the Indian government that its coronavirus vaccine shows "high effectiveness" on the COVID-19 variant prevalent in India as well as on people of Indian ethnicity or nationality. It gave that assurance in an attempt to seek fast-track approval for its vaccine in India. The variant in question is B.1.617, said to be behind India's devastating second wave of the coronavirus pandemic.

Details: 'Vaccine suitable for all aged 12 or above'

Pfizer also told the government that its vaccine is safe for everyone aged 12 years or above, and it can be stored for one month at a temperature ranging between two-eight degree Celsius, according to sources cited by PTI. "Recent data points confirm the high effectiveness of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine 2-dose regimen against SARS-CoV-2 variants, and among individuals of Indian ethnicity," the firm said.

Details: Pfizer in talks to send 5 crore doses to India

However, officials at Pfizer have also sought various relaxations from the Indian government in lieu of an agreement to supply five crore vaccine doses to India between July and October. "The current situation in India, and across the world, is not 'business as usual,' and we must not respond to it with processes as usual too," Pfizer reportedly communicated to the government.

Relaxations: What are the relaxations sought by Pfizer?

There are several key relaxations that Pfizer has sought in meetings it held with the Indian government officials. One of them is that the company would supply doses through a central government channel. Further, it wants indemnification or protection from the government against compensation claims made in case of any post-inoculation adverse events. However, the company is considering surveillance of the first 100 subjects.

Recent news: Pfizer, Moderna refused to sell vaccines directly to states

Story continues

Last week, Pfizer, and Moderna - another American pharmaceutical giant - were approached by the Delhi government in a bid to buy vaccines directly for the city. However, both the companies rejected that offer, citing official policy to deal only with central governments, Delhi's CM had said. Earlier, the Punjab government had also said it was refused by Moderna in a similar fashion.

Vaccination in India: India administers over 20 crore vaccine doses

India has administered more than 20 crore vaccine doses so far, the government says, becoming only the second country to do so after the US. But its vaccination drive has drastically slowed down over the past few weeks due to a shortage of doses as flagged by several states. Slightly above 3% of the Indian population has been fully vaccinated as yet.

Fact: Which all vaccines are being used in India?

India has thus far given approval to three vaccines - the indigenously developed COVAXIN, Oxford-AstraZeneca's Covishield, and the Russia-made Sputnik V vaccine. Separately, COVAXIN trials on the 2-18 age group are expected to begin in June.

The news article, Pfizer's vaccine works against B.1.617 variant, firm tells Indian government appeared first on NewsBytes.

Also see: India may not receive Pfizer, Moderna vaccine doses until 2023

During pandemic, entire globe a unit: Centre justifies vaccine exports

India may buy 50mn Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine doses: Details here

Read more on India by NewsBytes.


Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen

Taipei [Taiwan], May 27 (ANI): For the first time on Wednesday (local time), Taiwan directly accused China of blocking a deal with German firm BioNTech for COVID-19 vaccines.

"Taiwan was close to sealing the deal with the German plant, but because of China's intervention, we still can't sign the contract," the island's President Tsai Ing-wen said in a meeting of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party.

Taipei had previously "smoothly" ordered shots from AstraZeneca in Britain and Moderna in the United States, Ing-wen said.

According to South China Morning Post, this is the first time Taiwan has directly accused Beijing of blocking a deal with BioNTech.

Beijing claims full sovereignty over Taiwan, a democracy of almost 24 million people located off the southeastern coast of mainland China, despite the fact that the two sides have been governed separately for more than seven decades.

When asked to comment on the matter, the German firm said, "We generally do not comment on potential or ongoing discussions to provide vaccine doses."

Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Group signed a deal with BioNTech last year to supply its mRNA vaccines to mainland China, and in March offered to supply some of those doses to Taiwan. Under the deal, Fosun was given the exclusive rights to develop and commercialise the vaccines in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, SCMP reported.

Taiwan is witnessing a new surge in the COVID-19 crisis. It has reported 635 new coronavirus cases and 11 deaths on Wednesday.

Taiwan, which is home to about 23 million people, has so far received 700,000 AstraZeneca shots via the Covax Facility, and less than 1 per cent of its population has been vaccinated. It has yet to receive any of the shots it ordered from Moderna.

At a press briefing on Wednesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian did not comment on Tsai's claim but said the channels for Taiwan to obtain vaccines from the mainland were "unimpeded", SCMP reported.

Meanwhile, Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office spokeswoman Zhu Fenglian said two non-governmental bodies in Shanghai and Jiangsu had agreed to donate a batch of vaccines to Taiwan.

"We support and will assist the donation," she said, without specifying the manufacturer or how many doses would be supplied. "We hope that relevant parties in Taiwan will clear obstacles for the delivery to take place as soon as possible." Zhu also criticised Taiwan for not accepting aid from Beijing. (ANI)
MIAMI (AP)  One of the worlds top electronic music festivals is returning to downtown Miami next year with the blessing of neighbors who have complained about the event in the past.

Organizers of the Ultra Music Festival announced Tuesday an agreement to settle tensions with the Downtown Neighbors Alliance, the Miami Herald reported. The association representing 13 downtown condominium towers will no longer seek to remove the event from Bayfront Park.

Ultra said in a statement it would address issues like construction schedules, park closures, noise monitoring and traffic management.

Festival organizers and residents found a balance between protecting local lifestyles and hosting large-scale music productions, Ultra spokesman Ray Martinez said. He suggested the event being canceled the past two years might have helped negotiations.

Maybe the COVID pause gave both sides an opportunity to kind of take a breath, if you will, and come to the table without the impending event looming over either side, Martinez said.

Downtown Neighbors Alliance President James Torres said in a statement that his group was pleased with the deal.
Take and Make Craft available

CHARLESTON  Join the Charleston Public Library for a handprint hermit crab Kids Take and Make Craft designed for ages 3-12 with parental assistance as needed.

Kids Take and Make Crafts will be available for pick up at the KidSpace desk through Sunday, June 6, one per child, while supplies last.

Supplies you will need at home include: safety scissors; glue; and crayons, markers, colored pencils. Complete instructions are provided. Parental supervision is advised. This is a free childrens program, open to the public. A library card is not needed to participate. For further information, please call 217-345-1514.

'Berries and burgers' fundraiser set

STRASBURG  SCAN (Strasburg Community Action Network) will host a "Berries and Burgers" Thursday, June 3, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Strasburg Community Center.

Theyll be serving homemade strawberry shortcake, grilled pork burgers and hot dogs. Dine in or order food to go. Proceeds support Strasburg park improvement projects.

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Community Family Fun Day scheduled

TOLEDO  Calvary Tabernacle is hosting Community Family Fun Day Saturday, June 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Neal Park Rez in Toledo.

The public is invited to come out and bring the kids for free bounce houses and games. Food will be served, including free hot dogs, drinks and snow cones.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/CalTabToledo

Registration for Windsor 5K run

WINDSOR  The Windsor High School Class of 2022 is sponsoring this years Harvest Picnic 5k Run on Saturday, Aug. 21, to raise money for their senior class trip. Those who register by Sunday, Aug. 1, receive a T-shirt.

If interested, you can download a registration form from the schools website, www.windsor.k12.il.us. If you have any questions, to contact Lesley Baker at bakerle@windsorcusd.org or Monica Carl at carlm@windsorcusd.org.

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DECATUR  Rows of police officers stood at parade rest waiting for the casket containing the earthly remains of Officer Chris Oberheim on Wednesday, patient and so silent that you could hear birds chirping in the trees surrounding Maranatha Assembly of God.

But when the shouted order came from the doors of the church, every spine snapped straight and every officer came to attention. A second shouted order, and every one of them saluted, while the pipe and drum corps played and the flag-draped casket was carried to the waiting hearse.

Parked in front of the church was a Champaign police car, draped in black ribbon. Members of the Patriot Guard stood ready with flags and a motorcycle escort for the hearse, waiting in the still, muggy air.

As the police vehicles lined up for the procession to the cemetery in Monticello, seemingly every agency in Illinois was represented: Orland Park; Streamwood; Deerfield; East Peoria; O'Fallon, Ogle County, Libertyville, Kendall County; and many more. The Decatur and Champaign police departments were represented by several vehicles each. Officers from other states, including Indiana and Texas, also joined the procession.

Oberheim was killed early May 19 during a shootout at an apartment complex. Officers had gone there in response to a report about a domestic disturbance and encountered the armed suspect. A second officer was wounded. The suspect, 24-year-old Darion Marquise Lafayette of Champaign, was killed in the shootout.

Champaign County court records show Lafayette had previous arrests for domestic violence and drug possession.

A 1994 graduate of Stephen Decatur High School, Oberheim began his law enforcement career as a Decatur police officer. He served the department for seven years before he joined the Champaign Police Department in 2008. His younger brother, Joe, still is with the Decatur department.

A procession carrying Oberheim's body left the church before 1:30 p.m., traveling along the west side of Decatur to Interstate 72 en route to Monticello for burial in Monticello Township Cemetery.

The crowds lining the procession route became silent, many with their hands over their hearts, as the hearse and a line of police vehicles passed by.

Liz Bartimus taught Oberheim and his siblings at Mound School in Decatur and attended his funeral. Oberheims brother, Greg, is married to her adopted niece, Michelle.

Teachers never know how students will make their mark on the world but I always knew Chris and his siblings would do well wherever they landed because they were raised with lots of love and a strong work ethic, she said Listening to Chris' service, his commitment to his family, community and job left a large impact on many people. The ripple effect of his death will be felt for a long time. I never really understood the support and family created when becoming a first responder until today. It was palpable and visibly evident all around me...many glistening eyes among the men and women in blue.

Oberheim lived in Monticello with his wife and four daughters and was very active in the community.

Although many were unable to attend the funeral services, the Monticello community wanted to show their appreciation, support and love for the Oberheim family. Hours before the procession was scheduled to arrive, the route to the Monticello cemetery was lined with flags, blue bows, lawn chairs and people ready to honor the fallen officer.

Ashlee Burton, owner of an apartment building on State Street, was tying blue bows around pillars in front of the building. They are for the officers that go out and fight for our community, she said. We just want them to know that we support them.

The blue bows, purchased as a fundraiser from the Monticello Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club, were displayed on various buildings, vehicles and signs since the announcement of the funeral procession route. I have four here and more that Im putting up at home, Burton said.

Burton said she is close with extended Oberheim family members. But Im trying to give them space, she said.

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Further down State Street were retired couple Ted and Kathy Bachman, who also spent Wednesday morning attaching blue bows to the columns of their home. They just came in last night, Ted Bachman said.

The funds are going to go to a charity of Ambers choice, Kathy Bachman said, referring to Oberheims wife.

The couple recently returned to Monticello after living and working in Chicago, but did not know the Oberheim family. However, they still wanted to honor the fallen officer.

Especially during this time where police are disparagingly having funding taken away, Ted Bachman said. And here this guy gives his life.

The towns reaction to Oberheims death and his family made an impression on the Bachmans.

Something like this affects everybody, Ted Bachman said.

Cari Loudenburg brought two of her children, Asher, 11, and Ellasyn, 14, to a spot along Market Street in Monticello. They stood waiting for the funeral procession holding a blue and black striped Thin Blue Line flag. My husband is a police officer in Bloomington, Cari Loudenburg said as she fought back tears. This is a good experience to see.

The family understands the worries of sending their father and husband to work as a patrol officer. We felt heartbreak for the family, Loudenburg said. This is a really bad time for officers in general.

The funeral procession was the first for the Loudenburg children. However, they have attended police rallies with the Thin Blue Line Flag in the past. To show our support for the police, Asher said.

As the time grew closer for the police officers arrival, the bystanders discussed the impact on Monticello, schools and families.

Louanna Miller and her husband David Miller waited with neighbors and community members along State Street. Its been very somber this week, Louanna Miller said about the atmosphere. The last few days when they started putting up flags to line the procession route, that made it even more somber.

The couple have witnessed the community come together for the Oberheim family as well as for one another. In a small town like this, thats what people do, David Miller said.

The couple placed a wreath, decorated with red, white and blue flowers and draped with blue and black ribbon, near the edge of the road. The plan was to use the patriotic door decoration for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend. But Im going to leave it that way, Louanna Miller said. Its a difficult time for family, friends, for our community, for the country.

As the Piatt County School Mental Health Clinician, Louanna Miller spent much of the past week in the schools providing support and counselling for students and teachers. The conversations revolved around tragic loss and unexpected death, according to Louanna Miller. I talked to a lot of staff and teachers too, she said.

Along with classmates and teachers, the therapist spoke with children of other police officers. Just because of the suddenness and the reality of this, she said. And now its been brought home to our small town of Monticello with an officer that lives here.

With the Oberheim death so recent, advice is not needed, according to Louanna Miller. At this point, its really listening, she said. Everybody is in a state of shock at that time.

Contact Donnette Beckett at (217) 421-6983. Follow her on Twitter: @donnettebHR

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SPRINGFIELD  The Illinois Senate advanced a bill Wednesday that would give the Prisoner Review Board additional authority to consider early release for prisoners who have petitioned for such action due to medical incapacity or terminal illness.

House Bill 3665, sponsored in the Senate by Sen. John Connor, D-Lockport, was heavily debated on the Senate floor as Republicans questioned giving more authority to a board that has four members still unconfirmed by the Senate for their appointments made by the governor nearly two years ago.

The PRB, an independent 15-person body appointed by the governor, imposes release conditions for incarcerated individuals being released from prison.

The board has the authority to grant, deny or determine conditions of parole and notify victims and families when an inmate is going to be released from custody. The board also makes recommendations for clemency petitions to the governor.

HB 3665 passed out of the Senate on a 34-17 vote with one voting present, and will need only a signature from the governor to become law.

Dubbed the Joe Coleman Medical Release Act, the measure is an initiative of Rep. Will Guzzardi, D-Chicago. It permits the PRB to grant or deny a prisoner early release on the basis of medical incapacity or terminal illness, as long as the prisoner is not expected to survive past 18 months.

An inmate can qualify for medical incapacity, as written in the bill, if they have a medical condition preventing them from completing more than one daily activity.

The release petitions would be considered by three-member panels of the PRB, with a simple majority of the panel needed to make a decision.

Sen. Terri Bryant, R-Murphysboro, is one of the Senate Republicans who has been outspoken about the four PRB members unconfirmed by the Senate Executive Appointments Committee. She is also a member of that committee.

I'm really struck by the fact that it's a three-person board or three-person committee that's going to make this decision. What if it's three that we haven't even had the oversight on yet? Bryant asked.

I wish that I could be compassionate in this, but to tell you the truth, my heart goes out to the victims involved in this, because that individual is supposed to be locked up, and we're gonna let him out on the street if this bill goes through, she added.

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Republican Sens. Steve McClure of Springfield and Jason Plummer of Edwardsville, also members of the Senate Executive Appointments Committee, had similar lines of questioning.

HB 3665 came to fruition after a man named Joe Coleman became seriously ill while in the custody of the Illinois Department of Corrections, Connor said in floor debate.

His family attempted to get him released so that he could live out his final months at home, but Illinois law did not provide for such a process. Coleman died in prison in October 2019 while awaiting clemency.

There's no mechanism here in Illinois to permit us to do that under the circumstances in the manner that was required at the time, Connor said.

Coleman was a Vietnam War veteran and Purple Heart recipient, Connor added. But in 1981, Coleman was charged with the armed robbery of $640 from a Texaco gas station attendant in Murphysboro.

He served this country. He ran into some problems and ended up in prison, Connor said. But when he was facing a terminal illness, all he wanted to do was just get out to say goodbye to his family. That opportunity wasn't available to him.

Connor said the bill would provide reasonable timeframes and deadlines for the PRB to review cases that involve medical incapacity or terminal illnesses, with input from victims, to assess whether the prisoner in question will have any sort of quality of life improvement if moved out of prison.

If the PRB decides the prisoner meets criteria set forth in the bill, then they can be placed on mandatory supervised release for a period of five years. They will be released from prison as long as it is expected that they wont survive past 18 months.

Bryant questioned how the 18-month life expectancy will be enforced, noting people can far outlive doctors determinations regarding terminal illness.

I mean if you have pancreatic cancer or something else that's advanced to a point where you can't function, does it really make a difference whether you're within a prison wall or not? Connor asked. The bottom line is, I don't want another Joe Coleman.

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SPRINGFIELD  The Illinois Senate on Thursday passed a measure requiring public schools to include the dangers of sexting in sex education coursework and another lifting a ban on people convicted of drug crimes from receiving certain family benefits.

House Bill 24 requires public schools that teach sex education for grades 6-12 to include age-appropriate education on the impacts of sexting, or sending or receiving sexually explicit images electronically.

That education would include the discussion of the possible long-term legal, social, academic, and other consequences that may result from possessing sexual content. The measure applies to school districts that already teach sex education.

Students need to be aware of the dangers and consequences of sending and sharing sexually explicit messages online, Sen. Steve Stadelman, D-Rockford, said during brief Senate floor debate.

Stadelman sponsored the bill in the Senate, while Rep. Maurice West, D-Rockford, carried it in the House.

The measure passed 42-12 in the Senate. It passed the House on April 15 with 115-0, meaning it needs only a signature from the governor to become law.

TANF benefits

The Senate also passed House Bill 88, which would provide that a conviction for a drug crime would not make an Illinoisan ineligible for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits.

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program provides temporary financial assistance for pregnant women and families with one or more dependent children, according to the Illinois Department of Human Services.

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Sen. Patricia Van Pelt, D-Chicago, said during floor debate the bill aims to end punishment of people who have served their time.

We know that individuals re-entering the community have a difficult time finding housing, employment and educational opportunities, Van Pelt said. This drug felony ban is yet another barrier to reunite families.

Van Pelt called the ban an antiquated, racist policy that is directly linked to the failed war on drugs.

But Sen. Dave Syverson, R-Rockford, said it was a frustration for Republicans that the lifting of the ban would also apply to drug dealers, not just to those convicted of using or possessing drugs or other such offenses.

Van Pelt responded that murderers, arsonists, rapists, they can all come back and get public aid, food stamps and everything, under current law, but drug users cannot.

A drug abuser or drug user is a victimless crime, and in many times people are sick, and that's the reason why they get into drugs, she said.

The measure passed 37-15. It already passed the House 67-41, so it needs only a signature from the governor to become law as well.

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Banks donate big to fund COVID-1

Banks donate big to fund COVID-19 vaccine procurement

The Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam (Vietcombank) on May 26 donated a total of 38 billion VND (nearly 1.65 million USD) to finance the purchase of COVID-19 vaccines in 10 cities and provinces.

A worker at an industrial park in Hai Phong city has sample taken for COVID-19 testing (Photo: VNA)

Bac Giang, Bac Ninh, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City received 5 billion VND each while Da Nang, Vinh Phuc, Dien Bien, Hung Yen, Hai Duong, and Lang Son were each given 3 billion VND.



Vietcombank was the most recent to fund vaccine procurement in response to the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV)s call for domestic lenders to contribute resources to the COVID-19 fight.



It joined three other banks - BIDV, Vietinbank and Agribank - in donating a combined 100 billion VND to help the country purchase more vaccines.



Additionally, HDbank, the Sovico Group, and SHB have contributed a total of 75 billion VND to the COVID-19 vaccine fund, while the T&T Group has donated one million doses of vaccine.



The SBV has raised some 500 billion VND to help the countrys COVID-19 relief efforts, according to Governor Nguyen Thi Hong.



The fourth batch of AstraZeneca vaccine arrived at Ho Chi Minh Citys Tan Son Nhat International Airport on May 25, bringing the total number of doses delivered to Vietnam by the UK-based pharmaceutical firm to 2.9 million.



By the end of 2021, Vietnam will have received about 110 million COVID-19 vaccine doses, including 38.9 million under the COVID-19 Vaccine Global Access Facility (COVAX), 30 million from AstraZeneca, and 31 million from Pfizer/BioNTech.



However, the ministry targeted having enough 150 million doses to inoculate 75 percent of the Vietnamese population as directed by the Politburo and the Government.



As of May 25, the country had administered over 1.03 million shots, primarily to frontline workers.

Source: VNA
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SPRINGFIELD  If Democrats have their way, the state's five Illinois Supreme Court districts could be redrawn this year for the first time in more than five decades.

Democrats in the General Assembly released a new Illinois Supreme Court map Tuesday afternoon, to the surprise of legislative Republicans, who claim they were kept entirely out of the loop on the mapmaking process.

Rep. Tim Butler, of Springfield, who serves on the House Redistricting Committee, said he had no notice of the court maps being released on Tuesday.

I have asked repeatedly  if the majority planned to redistrict the Supreme Court. I never once got a response to that. I think this discussion of transparency and engagement, especially with the minority party, just goes straight out the window, Butler said at a joint redistricting hearing on Tuesday.

House and Senate Republicans also took issue with the fact that the proposed Illinois Supreme Court map heavily favors Democrats.

But more than 20 years ago, the roles were reversed, with Republican lawmakers redrawing boundaries to create a partisan Supreme Court map that would have given the GOP an advantage in judicial elections.

In early January 1997, the Republicans two years of majority control in the 89th General Assembly was coming to an end.

After former Speaker Michael Madigan regained control of the House in the 1996 elections, Republicans pushed through several measures during the very last days of the legislative session, said Charlie Wheeler, an emeritus professor at University of Illinois Springfield, who covered the Illinois General Assembly for the Chicago Sun-Times for more than two decades.

The Republicans were very concerned because they realized that much of their wish list would not pass with Madigan in charge of the House, Wheeler said in an interview.

With that in mind, Republicans passed a new judicial map the day before the 89th legislative session ended.

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In March 1997, Republican Gov. Jim Edgar signed the new proposed map redrawing the Illinois Supreme Court districts. In particular, the law would have redrawn the 1st District, which contains Cook County, into three separate judicial districts.

Justices who are elected in the 1st District run as at-large candidates, and Democratic candidates have an advantage in heavily Democratic Cook County.

Three of the seven Illinois Supreme Court justices are elected from Cook County, while the remaining justices come from four separate districts across the state.

At the time, Democrats in the General Assembly condemned Republicans for drafting a clearly partisan map, according to transcripts.

Former Democratic Rep. Lou Lang said the Supreme Court had already ruled on this question of splitting Cook County into separate districts when a similar remap was proposed in 1989.

You cannot split Cook County. Thats the clear words of the statute, Lang said during a debate on the House floor on Jan. 7, 1997. You cannot divide Cook County into three separate districts. The court of our state has already ruled on that.

Lang called the new map political retribution.

Its a bill of attempting to grab an arm of government that you dont have today. Its a bill thats designed to take from the people their right to elect under the constitution, the Supreme Court judges of the state of Illinois, and you want to change it so that its a different result.

Ultimately, Langs prediction was correct as the Illinois Supreme Court rejected the proposed map because it divided Cook County into three districts and split some judicial circuits between judicial districts.

In its 1998 opinion, the Illinois Supreme Court ruled that splitting the 1st District would violate the constitutional requirement that appeals from a circuit court must be heard by the appellate court in the judicial district in which the circuit court is located.

The court struck the entire map as invalid, finding redistricting of the 1st District could not be severed from the rest of the redrawn map.

Any attempt by this court to retain only bits and pieces of this dramatic legislation would do violence to the legislative intent to change the judicial districting of the entire state, the court ruled.

The maps released by Democrats this week do not, however, separate Cook County, nor do they separate judicial circuits between judicial districts.

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That is true whether or not the investigation ended with no charges being brought.

Newspapers stance

The seizure was part of federal investigations into stock sales made in February 2020 by Burr.

The L.A. Times said its legal action requests that the court unseal the search warrant application, any supporting affidavits, the search warrant itself, the return, the docket sheet and any other judicial records.

The newspaper said the records should be unsealed considering Burr announced Jan. 19 that the federal law-enforcement investigation into the stock sales has been completed without any insider-trading charges filed.

The search warrant contains information into allegations of potential wrong-doing on the part of a sitting U.S. senator  a matter of the utmost seriousness and highest public concern that then-U.S. Attorney General William Barr signed off on it, the newspaper said.

Howell said in her ruling the First Amendment guarantees a qualified right of public access to criminal proceedings and related court documents.

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Honing in on the qualified aspect, Howell added that it is not absolute.
Wake Forest University announced Wednesday that it will pause its process to rename Wingate Hall as May 7, 1860 Hall. The announcement came the same day that a Black alumni group criticized plans to name the building after the date that Wake Forest sold at auction 16 enslaved persons.

WFU President Nathan Hatch said in a message to the Wake Forest community that university officials appreciated those who questioned our decision and asked us to pause and reconsider the full impact of this name.

We have heard the requests for consideration of a name that would recognize the contributions of a Black leader from the Wake Forest community, Hatch said. We have heard particularly from some Black students, for whom Wake has felt unwelcoming, that the name, May 7, 1860 on a campus building would further alienate or traumatize them.

The Association of Wake Forest University Black Alumni sent a letter to Hatch, expressing its objections about renaming Wingate Hall to May 7, 1860 Hall.

The association said its leaders were excluded from the universitys decision-making process and that Wake Forest officials didnt follow proper guidelines in the matter.
Ohl said those decisions increase unvaccinated individuals likelihood of getting COVID-19 if a cluster emerges among their social groups.

Moderate transmission

Ohl said Forsyth has been in the 4% to 5% positive test range in recent weeks, what the CDC defines as minimal to moderate transmission levels.

Ohl said one motivational factor to get the vaccine is that at least within the Wake Forest Baptist network, there has not been a hospitalization involving a vaccinated individual since February.

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We continue to have hospitalizations and people in the ICU unit daily with COVID-19, so that tells you something about the power of the vaccines, Ohl said.

Dr. David Priest, an infectious diseases expert with Novant Health Inc., said Tuesday that almost all of the current COVID-19 patients in its system were not vaccinated before becoming infected. Most are considered in the moderate-to-severe category for illness.

Community spread is still occurring in pockets, particularly in places where there were fewer cases earlier in the pandemic, which reflect lower vaccination rates, Priest said.
The Davidson County Sheriffs Office identified Wednesday two deputies who were involved in shooting death of a man last week in the Linwood community.

Cpl. Matthew Niblock and Lt. Jesse Sharpe were involved in the shooting on Saturday that resulted in the death of Adam Hartley, who lived in the vicinity of where he was killed, the sheriffs office said.

The sheriffs office didnt provide any further details about Niblocks and Sharpes roles in the shooting, their ages or their lengths of service with the sheriffs office.

Capt. Mike Burns, a spokesman for the sheriffs office, said late Wednesday that his agency had no further comment about the matter.

Neither Niblock nor Sharpe was injured in the incident. Both deputies have been placed on administrative leave, which is standard protocol in officer-involved shootings. The State Bureau of Investigation is investigating the shooting.

Around 1 p.m. last Saturday, the sheriffs office had received reports that multiple people were shooting at each other at a site off N.C. 150 south of the Churchland community.
A former U.S. official familiar with the discussions said the administration has been communicating that it does not intend to renew the waiver but had not taken final action yet. This person was not authorized to publicly discuss the matter and spoke on condition of anonymity.

The Treasury Department did not respond to a request for comment.

The U.S. decision to allow an American company to refine and market oil was denounced by Syrian leader Bashar al-Assads government and ally Russia after it became public last August, not long after then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo acknowledged during the a congressional hearing that the Kurdish-led administration in northeast Syria had come to an agreement with an American oil company.

Trump became focused on northeastern Syrias oil in October 2019 after he abruptly announced his intention to draw down U.S. troops deployed against IS in the area.

At the time, Turkeys president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, had been pressing Trump to withdraw troops from the region. With his decision, Trump cleared the way for a Turkish military assault and effectively abandoned Kurdish fighters who fought alongside American forces in the yearslong battle to defeat IS militants in the region.
The officers cast Ellis as the aggressor, saying he punched the window of their cruiser and attacked them as they got out, according to statements from other officers cited in the charging documents.

But two witnesses who recorded parts of the fatal interaction came forward with identical stories, saying the police attacked without provocation. An officer in the passenger side of a patrol car slammed his door into Ellis, knocking him down, and then jumped on him and started beating him, they said.

The witnesses described seeing a casual interaction between the officers and Ellis before Burbank struck Ellis with his car door  there was no sudden, random attack by Ellis as the officers described that night to others," the probable cause statement said.

The video the witnesses recorded corroborated that Ellis did not attempt to strike the officers, though at times he resisted their efforts to restrain him, the statement said.

Pierce County Sheriff Ed Troyer, who was then a detective and the spokesman for the sheriffs office, said after Ellis' death that none of the officers placed a knee on his neck or head. But one of the witness videos that later surfaced depicts just that.
Deal with the facts

I realize that the Journal is heavily weighted for Democrats by reading the Opinion page. The recent letter The Republican Party line (May 25) shows how ill-informed most Democrats are.

A recent Rasmussen poll questioned 2,000 voters of all parties with questions that required factual information. By a large margin, the people who watched mainstream media, as well as CNN and MSNBC, scored the lowest percentages of correct factual answers of any group. People who watched conservative talk shows or listened to conservative radio outscored the first group by an average of 40 percentage points on every question.

The gentleman who wrote the letter said that Republicans are afraid of high voter turnout. He pointed to the Georgia bill as restricting voter turnout. Obliviously he did no research or read the bill, because it was a reasonable attempt to ensure election integrity and did not restrict voting. Delaware, President Bidens home state, has a much more restrictive voting law.

The main difference between Democrats and Republicans is that Democrats attack individuals who dont think like they do, and Republicans attack poor policy decisions.

Lets all try to deal with the facts and not the mainstream medias talking points.
A man was taken to the hospital after the car he was driving ran into the west side of Lee's Chicken on Wednesday afternoon.

The Mercedes-Benz hatchback drove into the restaurant at Coddington Avenue and West Van Dorn Street at about 4:20 p.m. It's unclear if the car was in the roundabout south of the restaurant before the crash.

Lincoln Fire and Rescue Capt. Dan Jones said the man, who was the only person in the car, was conscious when transported and no one in the restaurant was injured.

Acting Battalion Chief Curt Faust said part of the building's structure was resting on the hatchback, so responders left the car in place to prevent the restaurant's roof from collapsing.

Faust said the city's Building and Safety Department was investigating to determine the extent of the damage.

This is a developing story. Stay with the JournalStar.com for updates.

Reach the writer at 402-473-7223 or awegley@journalstar.com

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When the famous Budweiser Clydesdales high step through the Old Market during Friday night's Memorial Day Parade, they will be walking in the historic hoofprints of 19th-century Omaha beer horses.

The Anheuser-Busch Beer Depot, 1213 Jones St., was built in 1887 and joined the National Register of Historic Buildings in 1979 as an example of 19th century Romanesque architecture. From its opening until Prohibition became the law in 1919, the building was used to distribute beer in Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota and Wyoming.

An adjacent stable, long gone, housed six teams of horses that hauled beer locally.

Friday's pre-parade activities including live music will begin at 4 p.m. at 12th and Jackson streets, where the parade is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. It will follow a short route: two blocks east to 10th Street, then 2 blocks south to the Durham Museum.

The Clydesdales, according to a history prepared by Anheuser-Busch, were first introduced to the public on April 7, 1933, to celebrate the repeal of Prohibition. August A. Busch Jr. and Adolphus Busch III presented a six-horse hitch as a gift to their father, August Anheuser Busch Sr. The Clydesdales then proceeded to pull a red and white wagon carrying the first case of post-Prohibition beer from the St. Louis brewery.
The two newest and tallest tenants of the Lincoln Childrens Zoo arrived under the cover of darkness, on a trailer from San Diego.

The timing wasnt planned, but it was convenient, zoo spokeswoman Sarah Wood said. It made it easier for animal keepers to unload Ruby and Zawadi undetected and spirit them away behind the closed doors and covered windows of the 8,600-square-foot giraffe enclosure.

The zoo has kept them a secret for more than two weeks -- time the animals needed to quarantine -- but will introduce them to the public Thursday.

The new additions from the San Diego Zoo Safari Park will bring the Lincoln Childrens Zoo herd to six -- five females and a male.

And theyre important on two levels, Wood said.

Theyll give guests even more chances to come eye to eye -- and hand to mouth -- with the giraffes on the enclosures elevated viewing deck. The opening of the exhibit in 2019 proved to be a popular part of the zoos expansion, she said. Since then, the zoo sold nearly 130,000 bundles of lettuce for guests to give to the animals.

The giraffe feeding has blown the zoo into this upper stratosphere, she said. The numbers are telling the stories of animal interactions and magical moments with kids.
Seward County Sheriff Michael Vance says deputies seized 103 pounds of methamphetamine between two stops this week along Interstate 80.

The first turned up 3 pounds Monday near the Goehner exit.

In a news release, Vance said a deputy stopped a vehicle with California plates for several traffic violations and became suspicious of criminal activity.

After a police dog indicated the smell of drugs, deputies searched and found the drugs.

They arrested the driver, 48-year-old Jeffrey Dunagan, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, and passenger 43-year-old Jill Walker, of Corona, California, on suspicion of possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver, possession of more than an ounce of methamphetamine and no drug tax stamp.

On Wednesday, a deputy with the Interdiction Task Force stopped a rented Dodge minivan for a traffic violation near the Milford exit.

He said deputies asked to search and were given permission and discovered 100 pounds of meth in the stow-and-go natural voids.

They arrested the driver, 35-year-old Dallas Faamausili, of Benton, Washington, on suspicion of possession with intent to deliver, possession of more than an ounce of meth and no drug tax stamp.
Portraits of James Scurlock remain scattered across Omaha a year after his fatal shooting.

The plywood displaying his likeness that had covered the windows of a downtown coffee shop last summer now are held in the Durham Museum basement archives.

A billboard that demanded "Justice for James," which was briefly posted at 72nd and Dodge streets, now is tucked away at the Great Plains Black History Museum.

And in the neighborhood where Scurlock grew up, a massive mural honoring "JuJu World" has weathered months of storms outside the Easy Drive Package convenience store.

Those permanent relics ensure that a piece of the story of what happened to the 22-year-old will endure  both to remind those who observed last summers cascading events and to teach future generations.

For the Scurlock family, the touching tributes are not worth the loss of their loved one's life.

Its a very heavy price, said Scurlock's father, James Scurlock II.

For Omaha, some historians say, the case was reminiscent of past violent events and responses in Omahas history and again exposed the citys racial divisions, raised questions of fairness in the justice system and spurred extended protests.

It also sparked tense conversations online, in person and in the streets.

Scurlocks killing last year swiftly triggered a local rallying cry amid a national reckoning on race relations and policing after George Floyd was murdered by a white Minneapolis police officer.

On May 30, 2020, bar owner Jake Gardner, 38, fatally shot Scurlock after an 18-second struggle in the Old Market outside a bar Gardner owned near 12th and Harney Streets. That launched a tumultuous and tangled web of events, decisions, marches and press conferences for 114 days until Gardner died by suicide, ending the possibility of more answers being revealed at trial.

Even though some reminders remain around town, a person walking by the spot where Scurlock died wouldn't know what happened there last May. Days after the shooting, Gardner was evicted from The Hive and the next-door Gatsby nightclub. The space sits empty today.

Theres no marker, nothing on the landscape  its just something that happened in the past. That is what is dangerous, when we forget these stories, said Ashley Howard, an assistant professor at the University of Iowa who grew up in Omaha. Scurlock is not a hashtag, Gardner is not a cause celebre  just like Scurlock didnt have a chance to tell his side, Gardner didnt, either. That story is just gone, and people can fill in the gaps with whatever agenda or narrative they want to put in there.

By the end of May 2020, three factors had created conditions that culminated in thousands of people gathering at 72nd and Dodge Streets for demonstrations that ended in confrontations with law enforcement officers:

 In Nebraska and elsewhere, people already had lived through about two and a half months of the worldwide coronavirus pandemic, which led to job losses, school closures and people isolating in their homes.

 The deeply divisive 2020 presidential campaign was in full swing, with Joe Biden the apparent Democratic nominee in the race to unseat then-President Donald Trump, whose words and actions were regarded by many as exacerbating the nation's racial divide.

 And a string of incidents involving Black people had been captured on video: the Floyd killing; a confrontation between a Black birdwatcher in New Yorks Central Park and a white woman who had let her unleashed dog run free; and the fatal shooting of Ahmaud Arbery as he was jogging in Georgia. (A 911 call about the fatal police shooting of Breonna Taylor, which occurred in Louisville, Kentucky, in March, was released in late May.)

It was like a trifecta, said Cynthia Robinson, an associate professor and chair of the Department of Black Studies at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. The policing of Black bodies has always gone on, but now people are seeing it. Now were home and we have more time, because of the virus. And we have presidential leadership (in 2020) who is really letting it be known, 'Do this. It is OK to do this.'

Emotions were high the night Scurlock was killed. The evening before, more than 2,000 people had attended a Black Lives Matter protest outside Crossroads Mall at 72nd and Dodge, the spot known for demonstrations and celebrations alike. The peaceful gathering soon turned chaotic, with police in riot gear firing pepper balls and gas canisters while some protesters threw objects at officers, broke business windows and tried to smash police cruiser windows.

Emboldened and angry, many protesters returned to the site again Saturday night. When Omaha police forced them from the area, some went downtown, where more mayhem occurred, including vandalism and graffiti.

Gardner, a former Marine, had gone to protect his bar from vandals and pull a "military style firewatch, as he put it on Facebook. Scurlock, who was at the initial protest, headed downtown with friend Tucker Randall to let off steam, Randall has told The World-Herald.

Scurlock, who police say can be seen on video from earlier in the evening vandalizing an office near 13th and Harney streets, ultimately collided with Gardner outside The Hive bar. The confrontation started with Randall pushing Gardners father, David Gardner, who was pushing a woman and who Randall had said was yelling racial epithets.

Jake Gardner lifted his shirt to reveal his handgun, then grabbed it briefly and put it back in his waistband. Passer-by Alayna Melendez tackled Gardner into the street and ran away when he fired two shots.

Seconds later, Scurlock jumped on Gardner and held an arm around his upper chest. The two struggled as Gardner yelled for Scurlock to get off of him.

Switching the gun to his left hand, Gardner fired one shot, striking Scurlock in the neck.

Gardner told police he acted in self-defense. Scurlocks family contends that Scurlock is a hero who tried to subdue an armed man.

Brenness Long, 33, who with his mother owns the Easy Drive Package convenience store at 24th Street and Camden Avenue where the Scurlock mural is displayed, offered a distant observer's view of what happened:

They were both in the wrong, in my eyes, Long said. Neither Scurlock nor Gardner, he said, should have been outside the bar that night, taking matters into their own hands.

Long agreed to let someone paint the mural on his building because he wanted to do something to help the community. The mural was designed and painted by 29-year-old artist Hugo Zamorano and others, including one of Scurlocks brothers.

I wanted to do something, and I wasnt going out to the protests," Zamorano said. "I have a little more pull and power with my art than I do my physical appearance.

Two days after the shooting, Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine announced that he would not bring charges against Gardner, determining that Gardner had shot Scurlock in self-defense.

Public outcry over Kleine's decision was immediate. As rallies, police-protester clashes and a curfew continued for two more nights, Kleine relented and filed a petition for a special prosecutor and a grand jury to review the case.

Had it not been for the pressure, this guy could have just killed James Scurlock and moved on, said Robinson, the UNO professor.

In late September, former U.S. federal prosecutor Fred Franklin, serving as a special prosecutor, presented the Gardner case to grand jurors. They decided to indict Gardner on manslaughter and three other felony charges.

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On Sept. 27, the day his attorneys said he was set to return to Omaha to be arraigned on the charges, Gardner fatally shot himself in Oregon. It was a jarring and unexpected end to the dizzying turn of events.

Its not a victory that Gardner is dead, said Howard, the University of Iowa professor. Him being dead is not justice served, either.

The shooting had prompted immediate calls of racism, not just because Gardner was white and Scurlock was Black but also because Gardners former employees and a relative had said Gardner had a history of racist actions and talk.

It goes back to whites thinking they can police Black people," Robinson said. "That really is historical. The origins of that go back to slavery.

Howard, who studies race in the Midwest, had closely followed the news of the Scurlock killing and watched live video feeds of the Omaha protests. Speaking to Black Omahans during recent visits to her hometown, she found that many people brought up the 1969 fatal shooting of Vivian Strong, a 14-year-old Black girl who was killed by Omaha Police Officer John Loder, a white man.

Even though the circumstances were very different  the victim profiles, who was doing the shooting  those two instances told the same story for Black Omahans, Howard said. This is a cautionary tale that is told down generation to generation. I would suspect many white Omahans would not know who Vivian Strong is. Theres two very distinct experiences that Black Omahans and white Omahans face in the city.

Barbara Hewins-Maroney, a UNO associate professor of urban studies, brought up the 1919 lynching of Will Brown outside the Douglas County Courthouse as a comparison to Scurlock's slaying because of the strong community response elicited by each killing.

Both happened at a time when things seemed, on the surface, to be OK, between Black and white relationships, but when you get down to under the crust of it all, no, it wasnt, she said. I think each of these incidents gave emerging leaders a chance to speak up and do more and ask for more and start questioning, Why? Why? Why?

Eric Ewing, the executive director at the Great Plains Black History Museum at 24th and Grant streets, said Scurlock's shooting should be remembered to help prevent similar situations from occurring.

We can either say its repeating itself or we can say that its never changed, Ewing said. Different times, but still the same or similar outcomes. What we could say is we definitely are not learning from the past. In a sense, I say thats because were not learning about the past.

A coalition of local organizations, including the Great Plains museum, sought to collect physical remnants and interviews from local Black Lives Matter protests to mark the significance of the moment. The Durham Museum, at 801 S. 10th St., last year put out a request to the public for items related to the pandemic or the protests, a rare contemporary history haul to add to the museum's more than 80,000 archived objects that date to the 1850s, collection manager Becky Putzer said.

Durham officials collected the colorfully painted plywood that had covered the windows of Culprit Cafe & Bakery. They also have a black-and-white photo of 7-year-old Zuri Jensen, who was photographed by Dalton Carper as she held her fist in the air at the first 72nd and Dodge protest. Artist Anthony Penas stylized poster of that photo and others he created relating to the movement also are part of the museum's collection.

Putzer said that as of now, the items can provide educational moments on social media or be viewed in virtual tours. But she said she would love to create a dedicated exhibit or collaborate with the other organizations.

Items like this, it really will make a visual impact," said Putzer, referring to the image painted on the plywood. "This is such a beautiful example of the reaction to what happened, she said. Im excited to display this someday because I think it is a focal piece for our conversation about Omahas response to James Scurlock and George Floyd and the summer of 2020.

The vinyl billboard displaying the original Scurlock portrait art by Kat Morrow is now folded in a bag on the floor of the Great Plains museum. Ewing would like to hang it outside the museum every year but said he wants to get the Scurlock family's permission first. The museum also is working on video interviews to document the pandemic and social justice and plans to publish those conversations.

Ewing said people have expressed more interest in the museum and its resources because of the increased awareness of racial justice issues. Despite the in-person restrictions of the pandemic, the organization recorded 1,000 more guests, mostly virtual, in 2020 than in 2019.

But Ewing and Robinson said its draining and anxiety-inducing for them to keep talking about the Black lives that have been lost.

Scurlock's family is still grieving his death, and it's sometimes hard for them to drive past the mural at 24th and Camden and see Scurlock's face smiling back.

Although he is getting all this recognition for who he was and what he stood for, we do have to go on without him, said his sister, Rajeanna Scurlock, 21. And its just so bittersweet, because were definitely hurting without him. We wish he was still here with us.

A week after Omahas Black Lives Matter protests and Scurlock's killing, more than 2,000 people marched along Dodge Street from 72nd Street to Memorial Park as part of a walk and rally for racial justice. The demonstration was sanctioned by police, who blocked off traffic on Dodge.

Jackie Font-Guzman, who worked at Creighton University for 15 years, most recently as the director of the Negotiation and Conflict Resolution Program, said she saw the community come together that day and throughout the summer. She said she thinks the show of unity helped push the Douglas County Board of Health in mid-June to declare racism as a public health crisis and other local institutions to pledge to make improvements.

Omaha is not a place where people would go out to the streets to gather and protest. It really brought it home, said Font-Guzman, who now is the executive director of diversity, equity and inclusion at Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. I think people were ready to listen to that and grapple with it and say we need to do more.

The Justice for James movement was born out of the frustrations that police never booked Gardner into jail and Kleine declined to file charges. Ja Keen Fox, the group's lead organizer, held daily protests outside Kleines west Omaha neighborhood for 36 straight days, which Fox said symbolized a quick 36 hours between Scurlocks death and Kleines no-charge decision.

The groups priorities have broadened since then. Fox said racism occurs in many areas  housing, infrastructure, economic development  not just in the justice system.

Were not looking for symbolism, were not looking for just words, Fox said. Were looking for a real policy and systemic chance that shifts the way Black and brown people are able to live their lives.

The organization is preparing for the election of the Douglas County attorney in 2022 and speaking to prospective candidates. Kleine switched his political affiliation to the Republican Party in October after a resolution adopted by the Nebraska Democratic Party said his handling of the Gardner case perpetuated White supremacy, something he vehemently disputes. Kleine hasnt publicly announced whether he will run for a fifth term.

Gardners suicide put an end to what likely would have been years of court hearings and potential appeals.

But just as the case had been litigated, dissected and argued about on social media last summer, various conspiracy theories swirled that Gardner was not actually dead, although Franklin obtained and filed Gardners Oregon death certificate so a judge could officially dismiss the case.

Many online commenters thought the man with red, shoulder-length hair who happily carried out Rep. Nancy Pelosis podium at the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol insurrection bore an uncanny resemblance to Gardner. Yet that man, from Florida, was identified and arrested days later.

Hewins-Maroney said her students and friends have floated ideas that Gardner's death certificate was forged, that Gardner fled to Canada or is hiding out in the Pacific Northwest.

Despite the rumors, all evidence shows that Gardner died by suicide.

Some recognized that no matter what might have been the resolution of the criminal case, the matter wouldnt have been settled in many people's minds.

An unnecessary death and murder of a Black man can never be resolved, Hewins-Maroney said.

Said Robinson: There will be closure when we dont have to fight for social justice again.

The Black community is a part of Omaha," Ewing said. "So how can Omaha move forward? We all are part of the community of Omaha. Omaha has a responsibility for the ugliness  if part of the pie is bad, then the whole pie is bad. So its everyones responsibility.

And its just one case, those interviewed said. A systematic change is whats needed, and while Scurlocks killing may have prompted some discourse, more work is needed. Font-Guzman said the case showed people need to get out of their affinity groups and reach out to make connections with others.

I should be willing to sit with that discomfort, be able to acknowledge that I will not be able to fully understand someone or where theyre coming from, but I will still have some sort of relationship, Font-Guzman said. Theres so much emphasis on convincing someone that your position is the correct one, which leads to polarization  those are not healthy approaches. We should be able to have conversations and be in existence and thrive in a community together.

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Rikli and Kindig thanked the law enforcement officers and rescue teams who have been leading the search, saying that they are all running on fumes. In a video posted to social media Tuesday, Kindig said more than 15 outside public service agencies have provided personnel and equipment for the search. The Salvation Army has aided search teams and volunteers through a disaster relief canteen.

Seeing the crowd here is my inspiration, Kindig said Wednesday night.

We are a community of family, he continued. As you all know, sometimes family disagrees ... but when theres adversity, family comes together, and youve exhibited that by your volunteer efforts and being here tonight. Continue to help.

Rikli also thanked those who have been using social media to help organize and raise awareness for the missing boy.

He said that he wasnt sure whether members of Ryans family were at the event.

If you are, know that we love you, we care about you and support you, he said.

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"We should remove any incentives that would slow reopening, regrowth, re-employment and reconnecting," he said.

But several senators pointed out that people must be working to qualify for SNAP benefits, unless they are disabled, pregnant or elderly.

The heating assistance measure (LB306) was passed over the governor's veto on a 32-15 vote. The bill, introduced by Sen. Tom Brandt of Plymouth, raises the income limit from 130% of the federal poverty level to 150% to qualify for federally funded heating and cooling assistance and requires that a larger share of the federal grant be used to help weatherize homes of low-income Nebraskans.

Brandt said the change will make better use of the state's federal dollars.

In his veto message, Ricketts said that changing the income limits would mean less money available for existing recipients. He offered to use money available through federal pandemic assistance to temporarily help people with higher incomes, but argued that the law should not change.

Later in the afternoon, lawmakers voted 31-18 to override the governor's veto of LB147. The measure, introduced by Sen. Mark Kolterman of Seward, puts the Nebraska Public Employees Retirement Systems in charge of managing the troubled OPS pension system, starting in 2024.
BANGKOK (AP)  Shareholders of the French energy company Total SA have voted to suspend payments of dividends to stakeholders in the joint venture company running a gas pipeline in Myanmar, the company said Wednesday.

Pressure has been growing on companies with investments or operations linked to the Myanmar military to suspend any financial support following a Feb. 1 coup. The Yadana pipeline is partly owned by Myanmar Oil & Gas Enterprises, a government-controlled entity.

Shareholders of the Moattama Gas Transportation Co., or MGTC, which operates the Yadana pipeline, made the decision at a meeting held on May 12, Total said in a statement.

It said the decision was in response to a proposal from Total and the U.S. energy company Chevron and was taken in light of the unstable context in Myanmar.

The decision was retroactively effective from April 1, it said. All cash distributions by MGTC to its shareholders (Total (31.24%), Chevron (28.26%), PTTEP (25.5%) and MOGE (15%)) are suspended," it said. PTTEP is a Thai company.
BANGKOK (AP)  Thailand is ramping up efforts to curb trade in wildlife to help reduce the risk of future pandemics, officials said Thursday, though it was unclear whether that would mean an end to all such sales in the wildlife trafficking hub.

The government intends to make Thailand free of the legal wildlife trade while also combatting illegal trafficking in wild animals, Minister for Natural Resources and the Environment Waravut Silpa-archa said Thursday.

Speaking in pre-recorded addresses, Silpa-archa and other officials said the pandemic has raised the urgency of shutting down the supply chain of wildlife and game meat that may harbor pathogens that cause COVID-19, Ebola and other illnesses in people.

The motto for the campaign, he said, is, Stop disease and extinctions: Never eat, buy, hunt or sell wildlife.

Since the minister delivered his remarks remotely, it was not possible to ask if authorities plan to shutter markets that still sell a variety of animal species, even in downtown Bangkok.
One of the downsides of collecting scotch as well as drinking it is buying bottles that sit on the shelf in the vault for a while before opening, leaving no opportunity to buy more if theyre a stunner. Thats the case with this months malt, Deanston 2008 Bordeaux Red Wine Cask Matured.

The Deanston Distillery sits nestled among the trees next to the River Tieth about 30 miles north of Glasgow, Scotland. The distillery was built in 1785 as a cotton mill, only producing scotch since 1966. Deanston is the only distillery entirely energy self-sufficient, courtesy of a hydro-electric facility on site. It mainly produced scotch for blending until a downturn in the industry forced the stills silent in 1982. A purchase by Burn Stewart (now Distell Group, which also owns Bunnahabhain and Tobermory/Ledaig) in 1990 restarted the stills.

My father, Bob Feit, and I stopped at Deanston on our last trip to Scotland, a fantastic pre-COVID tour in May of 2019. I had only tried the Virgin Oak bottling of Deanston prior to that (the only Deanston I do not care for). One of the best parts of visiting Scotch distilleries is when the staff invite you for a wee sample of the bottles available at the shop. I fell in love with several of their bottlings that day, most notably the hand fill 15-year French oak bottle, which can coincidentally be purchased on Deanstons website and shipped here.
Jared Uecker has come a long way since his days of managing the bar at the Lincoln Country Club.

The Norfolk native has hiked through the jungle in the Amazon, worked organic vineyards in Oregon, then met and married his wife, and they had their first child. Along the way, he realized just what he wanted to do in life: procure the finest local meat available and become a butcher, like his grandfather.

The epiphany took place at a weekend retreat for bartenders in Oregon, where he spent most of the afternoon talking with the man who was responsible for the pig roast. He was intrigued, and the seed was planted. For the next eight months, he apprenticed with a butcher in Portland, Oregon, then returned to Nebraska and opened up shop as Otillie Meats. The Otillie name comes from his wifes side of the family and is not only her middle name, but has been passed on for generations, and so it seemed a good fit.

Once back in Nebraska, they found a home in Lincoln, but the commercial space he needed to process his pork-heavy menu was in Omaha. So he made the commute and began selling his cuts at the farmers markets there, and also supplied restaurants in the area. However, in October 2020 when a location in Lincoln opened up, he jumped at the chance.
Voronezh court fines user over publishing Hitler photo on Immortal Regiment site

 flickr.com

14:05 27/05/2021

MOSCOW, May 27 (RAPSI)  The Voronezh Regional Court has imposed a fine on local resident Alexander Khoroshiltsev, who posted a photo of Adolf Hitler on the Immortal Regiment website, the press service of the Russian Investigative Committee informs RAPSI on Thursday.

Investigators and the court established that Khoroshiltsev, no later than May 4, 2020, aiming to approve the crimes defined as such by the International Military Tribunal in Nuremberg, posted a photo of Adolf Hitler in the public domain on the Memory Bank website on the Internet for its further publication on the Immortal Regiment Online website alongside images of veterans of the Great Patriotic War and home front workers, the statement reads.

The court found that Khoroshiltsev approved the participation of the leadership of the National Socialist German Workers' Party, including Hitler, in committing war crimes and crimes against humanity during the Second World War, thereby rehabilitating Nazism on the basis of the evidence presented, including expert examinations and testimony of witnesses, according to the document.

Earlier, the Russian Supreme Court has clarified that a public demonstration of photos of Nazi criminals and their approval in public is to be qualified as a completed act, regardless of the confirmation of the applications by administrators of the Immortal Regiment website.

This May, the Supreme Court ordered to reconsider the ruling by which Kruglov was fined 120,000 rubles ($1,600 at the current exchange rate) after the court of first instance and the appeal instance considered that he had committed only an "attempt" to rehabilitate Nazism.

In mid-May 2020, investigative authorities opened criminal cases after finding out that photographs of Nazi criminals were published on websites of the Immortal Regiment movement. The photos were published in the framework of a virtual event aimed at preservation and perpetuating of the memory of the generation fighting against Nazi Germany in the Great Patriotic War.

According to investigators, on or before May 3 and on or before May 10 unidentified persons published on a freely accessible website a photograph of Reichsfuhrer-SS Heinrich Himmler and that of Adolf Hitler respectively; they were falsely designated as participants of the war against the Nazis.
Legislators do have the power to fix those problems. Whether they have the political will is another question. Because they already know poverty impacts learning. And they know, too, that poverty is growing across Nebraska, as it is nationally -- in both our urban centers and our rural communities.

Increasingly over the past several decades, public schools have become more than just schools; they are also food pantries, providers of mental and physical health services and places of safety.

Despite everything, Nebraskas public schools remain some of the very best in the nation. But with student needs continuing to grow, Nebraskas lawmakers will need to do better than Nebraskas consistent rank of 49th in the nation for state support of K-12 education.

Our leaders must invest in education like the priority it is and fund public schools equitably, adequately and sustainably. No more talk of defunding schools through vouchers and scholarship tax credits. Every child in the state should have all of their basic needs met. And teachers are professionals; they deserve to be paid accordingly.
WASHINGTON  Former House Speaker Paul D. Ryan, once a rising star of the Republican Party as southeastern Wisconsin's representative in Congress who lost the battle over the soul of the GOP to Donald Trump, will urge his party Thursday evening to end its preoccupation with the former president and revive its commitment to conservative values.

After years of laying low and only rarely publicly challenging Trump, Ryan, in an evening speech at the Reagan Library, will describe conservatives as at a crossroads.

And heres one reality we have to face: If the conservative cause depends on the populist appeal of one personality, or on second-rate imitations, then were not going anywhere, Ryan is expected to say, according to excerpts released in advance. Voters looking for Republican leaders want to see independence and mettle.

The speech will give Ryan, who has had a cool relationship with Trump before and after he quit Congress in 2019, a higher-profile part in the small but increasingly vocal anti-Trump wing of the GOP. That wing drew broad national attention when House Republicans this month drummed Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming out of their leadership for refusing to stop criticizing Trump for lying about the legitimacy of the 2020 presidential election.
There's a 40% chance that the world will get so hot in the next five years that it will temporarily push past the temperature limit the Paris climate agreement is trying to prevent, meteorologists said.

A new World Meteorological Organization forecast for the next several years also predicts a 90% chance that the world will set yet another record for the hottest year by the end of 2025 and that the Atlantic will continue to brew more potentially dangerous hurricanes than it used to.

For this year, the meteorologists say large parts of land in the Northern Hemisphere will be 1.4 degrees (0.8 degrees Celsius) warmer than recent decades and that the U.S. Southwest's drought will continue.

The 2015 Paris climate accord set a goal of keeping warming to a few tenths of a degree warmer from now. The report said there is a 40% chance that at least one of the next five years will be 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) higher than pre-industrial times  the more stringent of two Paris goals. The world is already 1.2 degrees Celsius (2.2 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer than pre-industrial times.

Last year, the same group forecasted a 20% chance of it happening.
Former House Speaker Paul Ryan, weighing in on the fight for the Republican Party's future, is urging conservatives to reject Donald Trump and "second-rate imitations."

The comments, in a speech set for Thursday night at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in California, come as the vast majority of Republicans in Washington and beyond remain loyal to Trump even while the former president continues to make wildly false claims about his election loss last year.

Ryan, among the most respected Republicans in the nation's capital before Trump's rise, has been largely silent since he left Congress two years ago.

In his remarks, Ryan is not going after Trump by name, but the context is clear.

"We conservatives find ourselves at a crossroads," Ryan says in his prepared remarks, which The Associated Press obtained. "And here's one reality we have to face: If the conservative cause depends on the populist appeal of one personality, or on second-rate imitations, then we're not going anywhere."

The Wisconsin Republican was the opening speaker for the library's "Time for Choosing" series, which will later feature 2024 Republican presidential prospects such as former Vice President Mike Pence, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.
Maintaining work-from-home options, the administration figures, would help address all four key challenge areas. It would lessen the need for state office space, help attract younger workers who crave the option, allow for more recruitment of employees outside of Madison, and align the state with digital priorities.

As an employer, we would be burying our head in the sand if we didnt recognize that remote work is something that is here to stay, Brennan said. If were going to continue to attract and retain the type of people who we want in state service who are dedicated to the mission that we have, were going to make sure that we can fold some of that opportunity for remote work and for flexible work into our operations moving forward for the next two years, for the next decade and beyond that.

Brennan said the administration will continue to work to allow work-from-home options, which will likely entail a mix of in-person work and remote work, although each state agency will have the ultimate say on whats possible for their employees.
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.

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Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian's Regular Press Conference on May 27, 2021

2021/05/27

Reuters: Taiwanese leader Tsai Ing-wen said yesterday that China intervened to stop a deal that would provide Germany's BioNtech vaccine to the island. Can the foreign ministry confirm and give any explanation why it made this decision?

ZhaoLijian: I took this question at this podium yesterday and you may refer to my reply in case you were not here then.

Reuters: This morning, a Beijing court barred Australia's ambassador from attending the trial of the Australian citizen Yang Jun. Can the foreign ministry clarify why this was the case?

Zhao Lijian: After examination in accordance with law, the Second Branch of Beijing People's Procuratorate initiated a public prosecution to the Beijing No.2 Intermediate People's Court on October 7, 2020 regarding the case of the Australian citizen Yang Jun who is suspected of espionage. Pursuant to law, Beijing No.2 Intermediate People's Court held a trial on May 27. Currently, the case is under trial and the court will pronounce judgement when the case is closed. China's judicial authorities handle this case in strict accordance with law, fully protect Yang Jun's litigious rights, and fully respect and ensure the Australian side's consular rights, including visits and notifications.

Chinese law stipulates that the cases involving national secrets shall not be tried in an open court or sit in by anyone. This is a common practice in many countries. It is reasonable and legitimate that the Australian citizen Yang Jun's case is not heard in an open court and no one is allowed to sit in, because it involves national secrets. China firmly opposes Australia's unjustifiable obstruction in China's handling of the case in accordance with law, and its gross interference in China's judicial sovereignty. China has lodged its solemn representation to the Australian side.

NPR: US President Biden yesterday ordered an intelligence report to look into whether the novel coronavirus began from an infected animal or potentially from a Chinese laboratory. Do you have any comment about this new report commission?

Zhao Lijian: I note relevant reports.

I also noticed that President Biden said that "the United States will keep working with like-minded partners around the world to press China to participate in a full, transparent, evidence-based international investigation".

Yesterday I shared China's efforts in support of WHO's global study of the origins of COVID-19. On the China lab leak hypothesis, the joint WHO-China study mission report clearly states that "a laboratory origin of the pandemic was considered to be extremely unlikely". This is an authoritative and official conclusion based on science. International experts on the joint mission spoke highly of China's openness and transparency on different occasions.

However, some in the US, turning a blind eye to facts, science, the questionable study of origins and botched response at home, kept clamoring for additional investigation in China. This shows that they don't care about facts or truth and have zero interest in a serious science-based study of origins. Their aim is to use the pandemic to pursue stigmatization and political manipulation to shift the blame. They are being disrespectful to science, irresponsible to people's lives, and counter-productive to concerted global efforts to fight the virus. With 33 million confirmed cases and 600,000 deaths from COVID-19, both the highest in the world, the US, instead of examining its own behavior, attempted to scapegoat China. What are they up to? Can their conscience really be at ease?

What secrets are hidden in the suspicion-shrouded Fort Detrick and the over 200 US bio-labs all over the world? In July 2019, there were reports on the unexplained outbreaks of respiratory disease in northern Virginia and on the subsequent EVALI outbreaks in Wisconsin. What's hidden there? When will the US release detailed data and information on relevant cases? It owes an explanation to the world.

The US keeps saying that it wants "China to participate in a full, transparent, evidence-based international investigation". Then we ask it to follow China's example and immediately start science-based cooperation with WHO on study of origins, conduct a full, transparent, evidence-based international investigation in the US, fully respond to international concerns, and contribute to mankind's early victory over the pandemic and better preparedness in the face of future public health emergencies.

I would like to stress one final point. The motive and purpose of the US-driven "investigation" relying on its intelligence apparatus is crystal clear. In fact, US intelligence has a notorious track record, as the world has learned a long time ago. Its masterpieces include the test tube of laundry powder cited as evidence for Iraq's posession of weapons of mass destruction and the staged "White Helmets" video cited as evidence for chemical weapon attack in Syria. Former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo even boasted, "I was the CIA director, we lied, we cheated, we stole. We had entire training courses. It reminds you of the glory of the American experiment." How can anyone trust the findings from an "investigation" conducted by such an intelligence organ with no credibility to speak of?

AFP: Trade officials from the US and China have held candid and pragmatic talks. Does the foreign ministry have any comment on what this signals for China-US trade relations, as well as the trade war. Are we likely to see any roll-back of tariffs?

Zhao Lijian: On the morning of May 27, member of Political Bureau of CPC Central Committee, Vice Premier of the State Council, chief of the Chinese delegation to China-US Comprehensive Economic Dialogue, Liu He, held a telephone conversation with the US trade representative, Katherine Tai. The two sides were engaged in candid, pragmatic and constructive communication with an attitude of equality and mutual respect. Believing that bilateral trade is of great significance, the two sides exchanged views on issues of each other's concern, and agreed to keep in contact. As for the detailed information, please refer to competent authorities.

China Review News: Speaking at the World Health Assembly video conference held on May 25, ROK Minister of Health and Welfare Kwon Deok-chul urged the Japanese government and the international community to strictly verify the safety information related to the Fukushima nuclear contaminated water disposal decision. Pakistani Senator Dr. Afnan Ullah Khan has also denounced Japan's unilateral decision to release nuclear contaminated water into Pacific Ocean, and urged Japan to reverse its wrong decision. On top of that, Pakistani fishermen staged a protest at Gwadar Press Club against Japan's wrong decision. What is China's comment on this?

Zhao Lijian: We have noted relevant reports. The statements by the ROK and Pakistani sides prove once again that the international community is far from being convinced by Japan's one-sided story about the "safety" of its disposal plan. Japan's wrong decision is met with objection from more and more countries.

I have a few questions for Japan: first, is Japan's claim of safety and reliability of its disposal verified by stakeholders? Second, given TEPCO's poor record of tampering with data and covering up truth, how can Japan guarantee the authenticity of the information and data it unilaterally provides? Third, certain Japanese politician has alleged that the treated nuclear contaminated water "is safe for drinking", why hasn't he taken a sip yet? Fourth, when will Japan withdraw its wrong decision in the face of questions raised at home and abroad?

How the nuclear contaminated water is handled bears on the global ecological and environmental safety and concerns the lives and health of people in all countries. Naturally, Japan is obliged to have full consultation with all stakeholders, especially its neighbors before making any decisions. The matter also needs to be assessed and discussed within the framework of the United Nations, the World Health Organization and the International Atomic Energy Agency. At present, the IAEA is working on a technical working group that will include experts from China and ROK. China will give full support to the relevant work, and push Japan to respond to the concerns of China, other stakeholders and the rest of the international community. Japan should show sincerity, take up responsibility, protect the environment vital to humanity, and refrain from taking steps that will harm the present and future generations.

Bloomberg: I have three questions. One way for the virus controversy over its origins to be cleared that would be for China to provide all of the data about the coronavirus that scientists around the world want. I'm not speaking about the US here, but scientists around the world. Will China consider this option? If not, why not? Second question, Kurt Campbell, the White House top official for Asia, said the US is entering a period of intense competition with China. He said that "the period that was broadly described as engagement has come to an end ... the dominant paradigm is going to be competition." Does the foreign ministry have a comment on Kurt Campbell's comments? Finally, I'm hoping you can clear some confusion about the trial of the Australian writer Yang Jun in Beijing. On the one hand, the court has told Australia's Ambassador Graham Fletcher that he wasn't allowed in because of COVID measures. At the same time, he apparently said that the foreign ministry told him that the trial was closed for national security issue. I wonder if you could clear the confusion here.

Zhao Lijian: I will first respond to Yang Jun's case. We have made clear explanation to the Australian side that the case is about national security and involves national secrets. As I said just now, China firmly opposes Australia's unjustifiable obstruction in China's handling of the case in accordance with law and gross interference in China's judicial sovereignty. China has lodged its solemn representation to the Australian side.

On your first question, as we repeatedly stated, from January 14 to February 10 this year, China responded to the request of the international experts on the joint mission in an open, transparent and cooperative manner by arranging field visits to different biosafety laboratories, including Wuhan Institute of Virology, and holding in-depth, candid and science-based discussions between international experts and experts from relevant laboratories. The experts learned in detail of lab management, work specification and latest progress on virus research. It is fair to say that they went to every place they asked to see.

China has set a good example for the global origin-tracing effort. Now the question is whether the US has the confidence and willingness to invite international experts to Fort Detrick, as well as its more than 200 bio-labs all over the world. We hope that the US will follow China's example, and cooperate with WHO in origin-tracing study with a science-based attitude so as to respond to the concerns of the international community.

On your second question, China and the US are two major countries that share broad-based common interests in upholding world peace and stability and promoting world economic recovery and development. The two sides stand to gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation. It is only natural that China and the US experience some competition in their relationship, which is the case in any major-country relations. However, using "competition" define or dominate China-US ties is a total mistake that will only lead to confrontation and conflict. Even if there is competition, it should be a sound one that helps to reinforce each other and pursue common progress, rather than a vicious competition to beat each other. China firmly rejects US moves to exclude and contain China in the name of competition.

The US should follow the trend of the times, abandon the obsolete cold war and zero-sum game mentality, and view China in a objective and reasonable light. It should adopt a positive China policy, and work with China to enhance dialogue, manage differences and focus on cooperation, so as to move forward the bilateral relations along the track of sound and steady development.
I think our focus should be on the middle third that is easier to reach than other unvaccinated residents. These people may not be opposed to vaccination, but may not have realistically considered the option, Menon said. Or they may perceive barriers to accessing the vaccine that are easily addressed through education.

At the Two Rivers Zoom conference Wednesday, Katie Mulligan, planning section supervisor, said she was feeling hopeful that COVID-19 will continue to decline. As of Tuesday, Two Rivers had averaged 33 cases per 100,000 people for the last 14 days, versus a statewide rate of 48 per 100.

The Two Rivers has 34.9% of all people older than 12 vaccinated. The figure had hovered in the low 40% when the age limit was 16, but the percentage fell when vaccines became available for ages 12-15.

Mulligan also noted that a tiny percentage of vaccinated people do get COVID-19. Of the 10,000 such cases in the U.S. among the 130 million vaccinated people, 6,000 are women, and the median age is 58 years old. About 27% of these cases were asymptomatic.
Gianforte said the Army Corps lacks authority to conduct the test flows from Fort Peck Dam because it has no legal right to the Missouri River's water. He also faulted federal officials for not detailing how they would make up for any damages from the altered releases when they published an environmental study of the project in March.

The study found that under a worst-case scenario, higher flows in the spring could annually cost up to $7.5 million in lost farm income and $8 million in additional irrigation maintenance work across four counties, an area that includes the Fort Peck Indian Reservation.

Farling said the lowest water flow rate proposed by the Corps  8,000 cubic feet per second  was selected following negotiations with irrigators to make sure their water needs still would be met. He said worries about too much water were overstated because officials would shut it down if significant erosion started to occur.

This is what these fish need. Weve got to try this because they are disappearing, he added.

A 2009 study estimated only about 125 wild, adult pallid sturgeon remained along the Missouri and Yellowstone rivers between Fort Peck and Lake Sakakawea. Scientists say the fish would likely disappear from several stretches of the Missouri without artificial stocking efforts by wildlife agencies.

Along the Yellowstone River, the Army Corps is building a new diversion dam for irrigation water near Glendive that will include a side channel to allow sturgeon to swim around the dam. Environmental groups concerned the channel wouldn't work fought the project for years in federal court but lost.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)  One of South Carolina's top Democratic lawmakers wants the state to use some of its COVID-19 relief money to offer $1 million prizes to people who get vaccinated for the disease, similar to a program in Ohio.

That type of program might get South Carolina, where just 36% of residents are fully vaccinated, out of the bottom 10 in the percentage of residents who have completed their COVID-19 immunizations, House Minority Leader Todd Rutherford said.

I think the message of the State of South Carolina should be clear. Get vaccinated: protect yourself, protect those around you, and you just might win a million dollars," the Columbia Democrat said in a statement.

Ohio is giving away five $1 million prizes to adults who have been vaccinated and a college scholarship to five children ages 12 to 17 who get their shots. Ohio saw an increase in vaccinations after announcing the prizes.

More than 2.7 million adults signed up for the $1 million prize and more than 104,000 children entered the drawing for the college scholarship, which includes tuition, room and board, and books.
Ruth Janet Alberty, 67 of California, MD passed away on May 20, 2021 in Washington, D.C.



She was born on April 1, 1954 in Coamo, Puerto Rico to the late Juan Justiniano Colon and Ruth Colon.



Janet (as she preferred to be called) married Jose Manuel Alberty-Galarza on October 22, 1971 in Carolina, Puerto Rico. She and her husband moved to St. Mary's County in 1985. God and Family was most important to her and the love she showed to everyone was the absolute personification of unconditional love. She and Jose were blessed to raise two children whom they loved dearly. She cherished her family and she gave the most wonderful hugs and kisses. In fact, people would often say that her hugs brought a sense of peace and calm. They could cure anything. She had a special bond with her grandchildren whom she would spend a lot of time with and shared a daily ritual of morning FaceTime calls. Janet was also known as a Prayer Warrior; she believed in the power of God to do anything, especially through prayer. She was a caring, loving woman with a terrific sense of humor. She was known to be a great encourager who would often tell anyone who was down and out, "You're gonna make it". She was also an amazing cook using her own recipes from scratch. Her specialty dishes were cubed steak smothered in onions with rice and red beans, Arroz Con Gandules, Arroz Con Pollo, and rum cake. Good luck trying to re-create her recipes, they could not be found in any recipe book, only from memory! She loved to go sight-seeing, especially to Annapolis where she enjoyed cruising around for the day. She was a member of Living Hope 1st United Pentecostal Church in Great Mills, MD where her husband and family attend to this day.



She is survived by her husband, Jose, her children, Jose Manuel Alberty, Jr., Nikki Alberty of Lexington Park, MD and Andrea Cristina Alberty-Colon of California, MD, her brother, Efrain Valentin of San Juan, Puerto Rico, and four grandchildren, Cristiano, Isabella, Ava, and Emerson Alberty. She was preceded in death by her parents.



Family will receive friends on Friday, May 28, 2021 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm with a Celebration of Life Service by Pastor Jason Staten at 12:00 pm, at Living Hope 1st United Pentecostal Church, 21650 Chancellors Run Road, Great Mills, MD 20634. Interment is private.



In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Tupelo Children's Mansion (https://mansionkids.org).



Condolences to the family may be made at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com.



Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A.
In outlining the case to the jury, Danielle Larson, Scotts Bluff County deputy attorney, said that the liquor license laws that applied to Singhs case were just two basic rules: that alcohol had to be purchased from a wholesaler licensed in Nebraska and that taxes have to be paid on alcohol purchased in the state. With Singh purchasing alcohol outside of the state, taxes on alcohol would not have been paid in Nebraska.

His name, and his name alone is on the liquor license for the Avenue I store, Larson told the jury. Though he and his ex-wife, Carol, co-own the store in Torrington, she said he made a decision to benefit his business by purchasing alcohol from Wyoming. It was not a decision made by a low-level cashier or some other person involved in the business.

The alcohol purchased in Wyoming should have ended up in Torrington, and stayed in Torrington, she said.

Singh purchasing alcohol from outside the state put him at an unfair advantage over other competitors in the community, she said. He purchased alcohol for lower prices in Wyoming, then resold that alcohol in Nebraska for lower prices than the wholesalers were selling it to the businesses.
Weve heard a lot about how much President Joe Bidens infrastructure proposal would cost. At $2.3 trillion, its a hefty proposal, so hefty, in fact, that we dont blame lawmakers looking for ways to trim down the package. The American Jobs Act costs a lot because it would do a lot.

The plan includes modernizing 20,000 miles of roads, fixing or replacing 10,000 bridges, 100% national broadband coverage, replacing lead drinking water lines and overhauling the U.S. economy to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

We Nebraskans would benefit from items on Bidens to-do list, but we need to decide if the benefits are worth the investment.

This year theres been serious talk about four-lane highways in Fremont, Norfolk and Scottsbluff. Proponents of better roads know what a difference they can make in the local economy. Here in Kearney, the addition of the Kearney East Expressway already is creating building action in east Kearney. A new sewer main in the area will accommodate the new businesses that are locating along the expressway.
Tuesday, one of the mail planes lost its bearings in the fog and descended near Bloomingdale to find out where it was at. The fog was so thick the propeller converted it into a fine spray and made vision impossible, the pilot said.

The Vernon County Censor

May 30, 1946

75 years ago

Particularly appropriate at this time of Memorial is the dedication page of the recently released Pipe of Peace 1946 High School annual. This dedication page is given over To all fellow students and alumni who have fallen in battle. We pray that their efforts will not go unrewarded. The names of former students who died while in the service of their country are inscribed as follows: Marvin Anderson, Beauford Durden, Ray Deaver, Bruce Johnson, James Morkrid, Lawrence Johnson, Richard Parker, Eritt Olson.
Granholm, a former Proterra board member, pledged during her confirmation hearing to recuse herself from any matters with a direct and predictable effect on the financial interests of Proterra'' until she completed sale of her interest in the company.

Granholm and the White House said she had nothing to do with the planning of Biden's online visit.

Granholm, a former Michigan governor, is a longtime proponent of electric vehicles and has promoted their use as energy secretary, calling them a key part of Biden's climate strategy.

The Energy Department said Granholm's stock sale came 89 days after she was sworn in as energy secretary, less than half the 180 days required by her ethics agreement.

Barrasso said Thursday that Granholm "actively promoted electric vehicles and electric vehicle batteries'' even as she owned stock in a prominent EV maker. While she sold the stock, her actions appear to be a significant conflict of interest,'' Barrasso said.

Inspector General Teri L. Donaldson told Barrasso in a letter that she is evaluating the concerns he raised and will determine what next steps may be appropriate.''

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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PHOENIX (AP)  Republican Sen. Michelle Ugenti-Rita is running for Arizona secretary of state, looking to propel her advocacy for more stringent voting laws into the state's top elections office.

The Scottsdale lawmaker announced her campaign plans on Wednesday night.

Ugenti-Rita sponsored a controversial bill that will purge people from the permanent early voting list if they skip two election cycles. The measure, which was signed this month by Gov. Doug Ducey, was passed over fierce opposition from voting rights groups and some business executives who said it would make it harder for infrequent voters to cast a ballot. Ugenti-Rita said the measure would prevent ballots from going to people who don't appear to be interested in voting by mail.

Ugenti-Rita is chairwoman of the Senate Government Committee, a position she's used to push for more restrictive voting laws even before President Donald Trump and some of his supporters used unsupported theories of fraud in the 2020 election to press for sweeping changes to election law.
The company has limited room reservations by 20 percent during some weeks and reduced seating at the restaurant, said Woodhull, who recently fielded a complaint from a customer who couldn't get a table for four weeks.

Unfortunately, that is a reality, she said, adding that it's better than delivering poor service. "What business wants to turn away business, especially after the year we've had?"

Still, the tourism industry is showing signs of coming back. Airline executives say domestic leisure travel is at pre-pandemic levels, and the number of people passing through U.S. airports daily is likely to top 2 million before the week is over  the first time that has happened since early March 2020.

Air travelers planning to rent a car during the Memorial Day weekend might be out of luck. Rental cars are scarce, and they are pricey  the average cost has roughly doubled from a year ago, according to government figures.

The AAA auto club forecasts that 37 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home over the upcoming holiday, a 60% increase over last year. But if AAA is right about this weekend, that will mean 6 million fewer people traveling than over the same holiday in 2019.
Bahena Rivera said he wasnt truthful when detectives began questioning him about Tibbetts' disappearance on Aug. 20, 2018, because he was worried about his daughter's safety. Back then, he said he had approached Tibbetts as she ran, fought with her after she threatened to call police and then blacked out" before hiding her body.

He said he agreed to lead investigators to Tibbetts' body early the next day because he was tired and wanted the interrogation to end. And he said police had urged him to put myself in the family's position and to think of how he would feel if his daughter was missing.

Bahena Rivera recounted growing up poor in southern Mexico and illegally coming to the U.S. after he turned 17, crossing a river into Texas on an inflatable raft with about 10 other people. He immediately went to live in Iowa, where his fathers brothers had settled, and got a job within days milking cows at a dairy farm, he said.

Bahena Rivera, who has been jailed since his August 2018 arrest, said he worked 12-hour days and was careful to avoid police for fear of deportation. He said never had contact with law enforcement until investigators looking into Tibbetts' disappearance identified his vehicle on a homeowner's surveillance video on her running route.
Stoltenberg said that NATO countries would continue to support Afghanistan through civilian experts who will help to advise government ministries, by funding the security forces and with support for slow-moving peace talks between Kabul and the Taliban.

He said that NATO is also looking into the possibility of providing some training out of country for the Afghan security forces, but no final decision has been taken.

U.S. military leaders are still grappling with how best to carry out President Joe Bidens order to withdraw all American troops from Afghanistan by September while helping Afghan forces and monitoring the threat that prompted the U.S. invasion of the country 20 years ago.

Biden and Stoltenberg will meet with the other leaders of the 30-nation military alliance on June 14 to usher in a new era in trans-Atlantic ties after four tumultuous years of the former Trump administration. The other big issue will be Afghanistan, although no Afghan leaders are due to attend the Brussels summit.

Asked about the impact of leaving Afghanistan without the security guarantee that has helped keep the Taliban at bay, Stoltenberg conceded that there are risks entailed to the decision of ending NATOs military mission in Afghanistan. We have been very transparent and clear-eyed about that.
LISBON, Portugal (AP)  European Union nations sketched out plans Thursday for new sanctions against Belarus, targeting economic sectors close to its authoritarian leader, as they sought to strike back at him for the diversion of a passenger jet to arrest a dissident journalist.

Meeting in Lisbon, EU foreign ministers vowed to continue ramping up pressure on Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko  whose disdain for democratic norms and human rights has made his country a pariah in the West.

The country's isolation has only deepened since Sunday, when Belarusian flight controllers told the crew of a Ryanair jet about a bomb threat and instructed it to land in Minsk, where journalist Raman Pratasevich was pulled off the plane.

A list of EU sanctions in place against senior members of the Belarus government, including Lukashenko, isnt having the dissuasive effect we need, said Portuguese Foreign Minister Augusto Santos Silva.

Amid the testy standoff, Belarus did get some help from its ally Russia, which refused to allow two Moscow-bound jetliners to change their flight paths in order to avoid Belarus' airspace.

As the EU works to hold Lukashenko to account, Pratasevich's parents appealed at a news conference in Poland for help from the international community to free their 26-year-old son.

I want you to hear my cry, the cry of my soul. So that you understand how difficult it is for us now and how much we are experiencing this situation, said his mother, Natalia Pratasevich. "I am begging you, help me free my son.

The EU ministers said they kept the family in mind as they did their work.

Im thinking of this young blogger, this young journalist, his mother and his father," Luxembourg Foreign Minister Jean Asselborn said in the Portuguese capital. "These are bandit tricks that are being carried out here. That cant be tolerated by the European Union.

The latest plans for sanctions, which could target the country's lucrative potash industry among others, comes after the dramatic diversion of the Ryanair flight. EU leaders have denounced the move as a state-sponsored hijacking, while Lukashenko defended his actions and accused the West of trying to strangle his country with sanctions.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the bloc would not ease up on Belarus. We need to move more swiftly on sanctions, he said after the informal Lisbon gathering, which drew up guidance for EU leaders but was not meant to take concrete action.

The EU has already advised its airlines to avoid the ex-Soviet nation's airspace and barred Belarusian carriers from EU airports and airspace.

But in a sign of support for Belarus, Russian authorities refused to allow two EU-based carriers to change their routes to Moscow so they could skirt Belarusian airspace. An Austrian Airlines flight from Vienna and an Air France flight from Paris both had to be canceled, the companies said. It was unclear what would happen to Friday's schedule.

The French pilots union SNPL said in a statement it was "more than surprised at the move.

While normally the responses to this type of request for modification are accepted immediately, its been radio silence for two days from the Russian authorities, it said.

The 27-nation bloc previously slammed Belarusian authorities with sanctions over the August election, which gave Lukashenko a sixth term and that opposition groups have rejected as rigged, along with his ensuing crackdown on protests.

If the next batch of sanctions does not ease the crackdown on the opposition and democratic values, German Foreign minister Heiko Maas said the EU will continue to look at what effects this has in Belarus, whether Lukashenko relents. If that isnt the case, we have to assume that this will be just the beginning of a big and long spiral of sanctions.

Foreign ministers from the G-7 group of leading industrialized nations  which includes some EU countries  also promised to take action. They said in a statement: We will enhance our efforts, including through further sanctions as appropriate, to promote accountability for the actions of the Belarusian authorities.

The EU has tried on and off to encourage democratic reforms in Belarus  bring it closer to the bloc and distance it from Russia  but has not had much success. Some say more sanctions will do little to alleviate the situation and will only push it closer to Russia, reducing the influence of the EU and others.

Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg acknowledged it is a difficult balance.

What we don't want to do is to drive the country in the arms of Russia, he said.

Asselborn said the bloc was focused on the country's large potash industry, a major supplier for fertilizer, "and I think it would hurt Lukashenko a great deal if we accomplished something there.

The giant Belaruskali plant, which is controlled by the state as are most economic assets in the country of 9.3 million, is the main cash earner for Lukashenko's government, along with petrochemicals.

Later in the day, the International Civil Aviation Organization was planning a closed-door meeting at its headquarters in Montreal to discuss Sunday's flight diversion. Western leaders have asked the organization to investigate.

Lukashenko on Wednesday defended the move, maintaining a bomb threat was made against the flight. He also insisted Belarusian authorities had a legitimate right to arrest Pratasevich, who has become one of his top foes, saying that the journalist was trying to foment a bloody rebellion." Pratasevich's Russian girlfriend, Sofia Sapega, who also was on the flight, was arrested as well.

Pratasevich, who left Belarus in 2019, ran a popular messaging app that had a key role in helping organize huge demonstrations against Lukashenko after the August election. But he has only increased his crackdown, and more than 35,000 people have been arrested since the protests began, with thousands reported beaten.



Casert reported from Brussels. Associated Press writers Vladimir Isachenkov in Moscow, Geir Moulson and Dave Rising in Berlin, Rob Gillies in Toronto, Monika Scislowska and Vanessa Gera in Warsaw, Poland, and Angela Charlton in Paris contributed.
All of these black holes cast dark shadows that are distinguishable from each other in size, but only those that fall in the gray band are compatible with the 2017 EHT measurements of M87*, and in this image, the one represented in red at the bottom is too small to be a viable model for M87*. CREDIT Prashant Kocherlakota, Luciano Rezzolla (Goethe University Frankfurt and EHT Collaboration/ Fiks Film 2021)

As first pointed out by the German astronomer Karl Schwarzschild, black holes bend space-time to an extreme degree due to their extraordinary concentration of mass, and heat up the matter in their vicinity so that it begins to glow.

New Zealand physicist Roy Kerr showed rotation can change the black hole's size and the geometry of its surroundings. The "edge" of a black hole is known as the event horizon, the boundary around the concentration of mass beyond which light and matter cannot escape and which makes the black hole "black". Black holes, theory predicts, can be described by a handful of properties: mass, spin, and a variety of possible charges.

In addition to black holes predicted from Einstein's theory of general relativity, one can consider those from models inspired by string theories, which describe matter and all particles as modes of tiny vibrating strings. String-inspired theories of black holes predict the existence of an additional field in the description of fundamental physics, which leads to observable modifications in the sizes of black holes as well as in the curvature in their vicinity.

Physicists Dr Prashant Kocherlakota and Professor Luciano Rezzolla from the Institute for Theoretical Physics at Goethe University Frankfurt, have now investigated for the first time how the different theories fit with the observational data of the black hole M87* at the centre of the galaxy Messier 87. The image of M87*, taken in 2019 by the international Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) collaboration, was the first experimental proof of the actual existence of black holes after the measurement of gravitational waves in 2015.

The result of these investigations: The data from M87* are in excellent agreement with the Einstein-based theories and to a certain extent with the string-based theories. Dr Prashant Kocherlakota explains: "With the data recorded by the EHT collaboration, we can now test different theories of physics with black hole images. Currently, we cannot reject these theories when describing the shadow size of M87*, but our calculations constrain the range of validity of these black hole models."

Professor Luciano Rezzolla says: "The idea of black holes for us theoretical physicists is at the same time a source of concern and of inspiration. While we still struggle with some of the consequences of black holes - such as the event horizon or the singularity - we seem always keen to find new black hole solutions also in other theories. It is therefore very important to obtain results like ours, which determine what is plausible and what is not. This was an important first step and our constraints will be improved as new observations are made".

In the Event Horizon Telescope collaboration, telescopes from around the globe are interconnected to form a virtual giant telescope with a dish as big as the Earth itself. With the precision of this telescope, a newspaper in New York could be read from a street cafe in Berlin.



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Inside the new, cavernous location of Aurora Films, Edward McFarlane and Jerry Rollins host "Toolshed," a live show dedicated to navigating the ins and outs of trade working.

The 15-minute program is one of the first instances of regular programming taking place at the new digs. "Toolshed" is filmed live in Aurora's main space four days a week on the Rock Lititz campus in Pod 5, which the company moved into in January.

Aurora Films is the second establishment in Lancaster County to receive official state accreditation for production and post-production.

Along with Triode Media Group's, the designation allows potential clients apply for a 30% tax credit, a notch above the standard 25% that Pennsylvania currently allows.

"Pittsburgh and Philly are mature film and TV markets, and have been, so we've talked with them to let them know that we're qualified now, too," says Doug Krane, director of business development at Aurora. "And just because we are qualified, it doesn't mean we're only going to do that. If there's an opportunity to go shoot on a qualified partner's studio or on location, we would certainly do that."

Krane and crew did that just recently when they were hired to handle production for a private concert livestream at Webster Hall featuring Sting, in honor of facility management ABM Industries' 50th anniversary of being listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

Aurora, which was first founded in 2001, has handled music projects in the new space as well, including two recent livestream performances from local metal legends August Burns Red. The 5,000 square-foot main soundstage is complemented with an additional 10,000 square feet for MOS production and four editing suites.

According to Krane, Aurora's place on the Rock Lititz campus as an all-in-one production studio has recently led to discussions with visiting musicians who might want to shoot music videos or similar projects while they are already in the immediate area.

"We would love to have some episodics to come through here," Krane says. "We're hearing chatter from sources like our lawyer and finance people that they're ramping up to do something in the area. The revenue stream doesn't necessarily have to even be from behind the camera, we can provide crew and equipment, which is just as good. We'd love to get one on campus, I think the whole community would love that."

For a company that already has two decades of work under its belt in the area, the space at Rock Lititz feels like a brand new start. However, Krane says that the allure of working on a big Hollywood-style production doesn't prevent Aurora from staying true to its Lancaster roots.

"We grew as a company being invested in our regional businesses here," Krane says. "We're doing work for Armstrong, we do work for the local hospitals, that's our bread and butter. We're not walking away from that either, we'd honestly love to staff up and do more."
NEW YORK (AP)  Lawrence Block has followed many paths during his long career.

With not a few dead end roads among them, notes the mystery novelist.

Best known for his Matthew Scudder and Bernie Rhodenbarr series, Block has released dozens of popular works through Harper Collins and Dutton among other mainstream publishers. He has received multiple Edgar Awards and Anthony Awards for outstanding fiction, and his lifetime achievement honors include the Diamond Dagger from the British Crime Writers Association and Grand Master status in the Mystery Writers of America.

But he has also completed dozens of works under other names, by publishers and publications long since forgotten, and, in some cases, of questionable legality. More recently, he has been publishing the books himself, including Dead Girl Blues and the Rhodenbarr novel The Burglar In Short Order, which both came out in 2020, and his current work, the memoir A Writer Prepares.

One big plus of self-publishing is how quickly it can be managed. I can reduce waiting time by a minimum of a year if I publish something myself, he explains.

The downside is not to be shrugged off. Self-published books rarely get reviewed and hardly ever show up in bookstores. Dead Girl Blues didnt make me rich, and neither will A Writer Prepares. But nothing I write is going to do that, no matter who publishes it, and whatever I self-publish stays forever available in electronic and print editions, and probably finds whatever audience it deserves to have.

Block is a longtime Greenwich Village resident, fully vaccinated and back outside, enjoying a nice big plate of Brussels sprouts during a recent afternoon interview at a favorite cafe. Passersby and fellow diners do not seem to notice anything special about this bald, plainly dressed man with the graveled voice, though at least some likely know about his books.

A Writer Prepares is a bit of unfinished business for Block, who turns 83 this summer and first worked on the memoir in the 1990s, during "a positively feverish week at an Illinois artist retreat. But he had other projects at the time and left the memoir in a manila envelope in a closet near his desk. When he came upon the manuscript last year, he gave it another look and was pleased by what he saw.

In A Writer Prepares, Block looks back to his childhood in Buffalo, New York, when he was his own biggest skeptic. In 11th grade English, he was assigned a paper on what his future profession might be. His theme was uncertainty, he recalled. He confided that he would never fulfill his fathers dream for him to become a doctor, and that an early wish to be a garbage man ended when his mother told him the work would chap his hands.

He ended the piece with a disclaimer: On reading over this composition, one thing becomes clear. I can never be a writer.

Responded his teacher, Miss Jepsen, who gave him an A: I wouldnt be too sure of that.

Block attended Antioch College, the setting for his extra-pulpy novel Campus Tramp, but never graduated and eventually settled in New York. Ambitious and prolific, he would take on the kind of assignments not generally discussed at the University of Iowa Writers Workshop or offered by the Paris Review.

Before Lawrence Block became a publishing brand, he was introduced to readers as Anne Campbell Clark, or Chip Harrison, or Jill Emerson, or Sheldon Lord. He wrote erotica and lesbian novels, called himself Dr. Benjamin Morse as he completed Sexual Surrender in Women, and, as, John Warren Wells, turned out a bit of field research titled Tricks of the Trade: A Hookers Handbook. He wrote for magazines that would cut his stories, change the title or rename a character. He might submit a story under one pen name and discover it was changed to another.

A Writer Prepares captures a pre-Internet, pre-superstore business that included such publications as Manhunt, Trapped and Keyhole, and some institutions that only the most cynical writer would have imagined on his own. Block worked briefly as a copy reader for the Scott Meredith Literary Agency, whose founder was as elusive as the ethics of his company.

Every letter we wrote was designed to manipulate, and was dashed off with a cavalier disregard for the truth, Block writes. My fee reports applauded the talent of writers who showed no talent, condemned the plots of stories with perfectly satisfactory plots, and were written with the singular goal of getting the poor mooch to submit another story and pony up another fee.

When Meredith died, Block recalls during his interview, fellow author Evan Hunter called up friends and exclaimed, Isn't that wonderful, Scott's dead?! Isn't that the best thing you've ever heard?!"

Blocks memoir captures New York in the late 1950s-early 1960s, when it was both stimulating and affordable, enabling a young writer to start a family there. The city has long been part of his work. Some readers think of Eight Million Ways to Die, perhaps his most famous Scudder novel, as one of the great books about New York. Matthew Scudder lives in downtown Manhattan, but his cases bring him all around the city, to homes honest citizens would be advised not to visit.

I like to get around the city, Block says. Up until the pandemic, my wife and I would have a thing: On Sundays, we'd research a little and we'd find some ethnic restaurant in some outer-borough neighborhood we had no acquaintance with and figure out how to get there. It was a great once-a-week treat."

His memoir leads to the mid-1960s, to what he calls the end of his apprenticeship," the publication of his novel The Thief Who Couldn't Sleep. It was the start of his breakthrough Evan Tanner mystery series, about a Korean War veteran who because of his injuries is afflicted with permanent insomnia. Block calls it the first book only he could have written, a break from the derivative work of his early years and the start of the kinds of novels he knew he was meant to write.

The stakes are higher (in a mystery novel) than they are in a novel where the big plot point is, Will this professor gets tenure?" he says with a smile.

He cites a writer friend who's a heavy-duty reader. And she's got a book that she's reading and she always reads herself to sleep at night. And for ages the book she settles in bed with has to be a mystery because at that point in the day, she says, she has to be reading something that she knows will be resolved at the end  which I found interesting.
Lancaster Countys two Republican commissioners waded into personnel issues outside their purview during Wednesdays public meeting, taking Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health to task for its new employee COVID-19 vaccine policy.

Hospital employees and clinical staff must be vaccinated against COVID-19 by Sept. 1, and starting July 1 new hires will be required to provide verification of or complete vaccination two weeks prior to their start date. Employees can seek an exemption for religious or medical reasons in much the same way they currently do for the influenza vaccine, which is already required.

Commissioners Josh Parsons and Ray DAgostino directed their displeasure with the policy at Dr. Michael Ripchinski, LGH chief clinical officer.

As the site director of the Lancaster County Community Vaccination Center at Park City Center, Ripchinski has become the face of the countys COVID-19 response and vaccination effort. LGH is the lead health care partner with the county in this effort.

People should be making this decision upon consulting their own medical provider and their conscience, said DAgostino, reading from a prepared statement at Wednesdays commissioners meeting.

DAgostino, who said he is not anti-vaccination, added, My concern arises out of a belief that people should not be forced to accept medical treatment through an injection of a vaccine in order to maintain their livelihood, particularly a new vaccine still under emergency authorization.

Parsons, who also read from a prepared statement, called the new requirement counterproductive and a heavy-handed approach to protecting staff and patients, the health systems stated goal.

Parsons and DAgostino declined to say more on the matter. Instead they referred questions to their written statements, both of which touted being at the White House when former President Donald Trump announced Operation Warp Speed, the public-private partnership to accelerate COVID-19 vaccine development.

Top priority

In response to commissioners, Ripchinski said employees can pursue an exemption and that management is actively seeking staff feedback. He cited a company town hall held Tuesday that drew more than 100 employees.

The safety of our patients and employees is our top priority, Ripchinski said.

LGH CEO John Herman  in his first interview with LNP | LancasterOnline on Monday  said the health system is still working out what to do with employees who fail to get an exemption and refuse to be vaccinated.

Roughly two-thirds of its employees have received the COVID-19 vaccine, according to LGH.

In addition to influenza, the hospital requires pre-employment that staff provide proof of vaccination for Rubella, Mumps, Varicella and Hepatitis B, according to officials.

The move came as more than 284 million doses have been administered in the United States  according to federal data  with very few side effects.

Generally, health systems have not required staff to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, all of which in the U.S. have undergone clinical trials in a truncated process sped up for emergency approval by the Food and Drug Administration.

Parsons and DAgostino said they had fielded complaints from LGH employees.

Both commissioners said they spoke with Herman and Ripchinski on Monday.

Herman informed staff of the new requirement on May 19, as reported by LNP | LancasterOnline.

Speaking off the cuff, Democratic Commissioner Craig Lehman said he saw the new policy as consistent with other hospital requirements.

Ripchinski attended Wednesdays meeting to receive county support for pop-up COVID-19 vaccine clinics the health system is conducting throughout the summer to vaccinate difficult-to-reach communities.

Approval, which Ripchinski received, will help LGH receive funds from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency for these efforts.

To date, roughly 2,500 doses have been administered at 11 pop-up clinics across the county, Ripchinski said.
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden is expected to announce he is nominating former senior State Department official Nicholas Burns to serve as his ambassador to China and Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti to be his ambassador to India, according to a person familiar with the matter.

With the selections, Biden is turning to a seasoned diplomat and a longtime political ally to serve in two of the countrys highest-profile diplomatic postings.

It was not clear when either nomination would be announced, according to the person familiar with the matter, who was not authorized to publicly comment on the matter and spoke on condition of anonymity. The White House declined to comment on either Burns or Garcetti and noted that no one is final until theyre announced."

The Associated Press has previously reported that Biden has settled on former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel to serve as his ambassador to Japan and former Deputy Secretary of State Tom Nides to be ambassador to Israel. Neither of those selections has been publicly announced.

Prominent Democratic fundraisers Denise Bauer, Jane Hartley and David Cohen have also emerged as leading contenders for postings in France, Italy and Canada, respectively, according to people familiar with the White House deliberations but also not authorized to publicly comment on the matter. During the Obama administration, Bauer served as ambassador to Belgium, and Hartley was ambassador to France and Monaco. Cohen is a top executive at the cable company Comcast.

Burns and Garcetti, if confirmed by the Senate, would come to their postings at high-pressure moments in the U.S. relationships with China and India.

Biden on Wednesday asked U.S. intelligence officials to redouble their efforts to investigate the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, including any possibility the trail might lead to a Chinese lab.

The president has also pressed Chinas Xi Jinping on his government crackdown of democracy activists in Hong Kong, human rights abuses against Uighur and ethnic minorities in the western Xinjiang province, and what the U.S. sees as unfair and coercive trade practices.

Burns previously served as undersecretary of state under President George W. Bush and as U.S. envoy to Greece and NATO. Burns is now the executive director of the Aspen Strategy Group and Aspen Security Forum. Hes also a professor of the practice of diplomacy and international relations at the Harvard Kennedy School.

Garcetti, if confirmed, would be dispatched to India as it has been overwhelmed by a surge in coronavirus infections and deaths. Indias death toll is the third highest reported in the world after the U.S. and Brazil, and true numbers are thought to be significantly greater.

Alex Comisar, a spokesperson in Garcettis mayoral office, declined to comment.

Garcetti, 50, who considered a 2020 White House bid and later became part of Bidens inner circle, emerged as a widely discussed possibility to join Bidens Cabinet last year. But he took himself out of the running, saying the raging coronavirus crisis made it impossible for him to step away.

The two-term mayor would leave LA with an uneven record. He has been credited with continuing a transit buildup in a city choked with traffic, establishing tougher earthquake safety standards for thousands of buildings and steering the city though the deadly pandemic as it became a hot spot for infections. Cases have fallen steeply in the city and some restrictions have been rolled back, consistent with the trajectory in the state.

But Garcetti was overmatched by a crisis of homelessness that became a national embarrassment despite the massive jump in government spending to fight it. Many streets and sidewalks remain cratered and crumbling, despite his early pledge to make fixing them a cornerstone of his administration.

A lawsuit alleges that a former top staffer sexually harassed one of the mayors police bodyguards while Garcetti ignored it or laughed it off. The mayor denies the claims. One of his former deputy mayors was also indicted on corruption charges in an ongoing federal investigation at City Hall. And as is the case in many large cities, the crime rate in LA is spiking.

In picking Garcetti, the president would be rewarding a loyalist who was one of his national campaign co-chairs, who served on the committee that vetted his pool of vice presidential contenders and who served as one of several co-chairs for Bidens inaugural committee.

The India post would allow the politically ambitious Garcetti to burnish his foreign policy credentials ahead of a possible future White House run. Thats a conspicuous gap on his resume  the Ivy League graduate and Rhodes scholar has spent two decades in city government, either as mayor or a city councilman.

Garcettis popularity has slipped in recent years, and Black Lives Matter protesters had banged drums outside his official residence earlier this year to urge Biden not to choose Garcetti for a Cabinet position.

Axios first reported that Biden was ready to nominate Garcetti as ambassador to India and that Burns was the president's likely choice for ambassador to China.



Associated Press writers Aamer Madhani and Kathleen Ronayne contributed to this report.
Gov. Tom Wolf visited Lancaster city Wednesday morning to repeat his longstanding call to raise Pennsylvanias minimum wage, the last state in the region to sit at the federal level of $7.25 an hour, which hasnt been increased since 2009.

Wolf said he wants to raise the wage immediately to $12 an hour, and increase it by $.50 every year until it reaches $15 an hour in 2027. He touted business support for the move, appearing alongside the owners of two local businesses.

But members of the Lancaster County business community contacted by LNP|LancasterOnline on Wednesday said they dont support raising the wage, even as they reported they are already paying significantly more to their workers and are struggling to fill open positions.

Steve Sikking, managing partner at Eden Resorts and general partner of Fulton Steamboat Inn, said he doesnt know a single hospitality business that isnt struggling to find workers. For that, he partially blames the federal governments $300-a-week supplemental payment to workers collecting unemployment benefits, as well as concerns many workers have about returning to full-time work while COVID-19 vaccination goals are still being met.

To try to attract talent, he said Eden Resorts has added multiple employee incentives, such as a $500 bonus for line cooks or increased hourly wages plus tips for servers. At the start of the summer season, Eden Resorts usually has 350 employees, Sikking said. This year, the company started with 120 employees.

Raising the minimum wage would not make any impact on his resort and hotel, Sikking said.

A lot of people have talked about the fact that the minimum wage hasnt gone up in a long time, Sikking said. I dont know if we ever even look at the minimum wage ourselves. We look at whats necessary to get the right personality in to fill our needs.

The Lancaster Chamber opposes the government mandating a minimum wage, especially a federal minimum wage, which the Biden administration has made a priority to increase to $15.

It isnt as simple as this amount or that amount, said Tom Baldrige, president and CEO of the Lancaster Chamber. Its much more complicated, and best solved by the market and in conversation between the employer and employee.

Baldrige said he doesnt know of any Lancaster County businesses that pay minimum wage. Even most low-skill, summer jobs filled by students are paying above minimum wage, he said.

Many local franchises and corporations have raised their wages well above Wolfs proposed $12 an hour. For example, Sheetz has a starting wage of $15.50 per hour and will pay an additional $1 per hour through September 23, according to a job listing for its Old Philadelphia Pike location.

Like Sikking, Mark Sauder, owner of Sauders Eggs, said raising the minimum wage would not affect his business since his starting wage is already $14 an hour. But he said he disagrees with the whole notion of a government-mandated minimum wage because it creates an outside influence that doesn't allow capitalism to work the way its supposed to work.

Sauder said he is operating with 60% to 75% of the necessary workforce on any given shift, requiring managers to fill in to keep the operation running. Hes offering a $750 signing bonus to new employees, a $1.80 per hour attendance incentive, and offers an additional $0.75 per hour to employees willing to learn a different positions responsibilities.

The chickens dont care theres no one there to put the eggs in a box, Sauder said. This is putting a lot of stress on my good, long-term employees This is absolutely the worst labor environment Ive seen in my business career.

Sikking and Sauder said the state government should focus instead on encouraging workers collecting unemployment to reenter the job market.

I really think we need to be training people to find better paying jobs, teaching people to do things that society needs rather than focus on minimum wage, Sauder said. Its a great headline, but it does nothing for the general consumer and general population.

Some business support

Wolf held his press conference outside Two Dudes Painting Co. in Lancaster city, a company chartered as a B Corporation, a voluntary movement by some business leaders who commit their enterprises to balancing profits with a commitment to fair wages and a range of social and environmental practices.

Peter Barber, the president and CEO of Two Dudes Painting Co., said providing livable wages to his workers is a crucial part of recruitment and retention, and as a result the company is not struggling to fill open positions.

Two Dudes employs more than 65 people, with a starting wage of $14 per hour that automatically increases to $15 after a 90-day training period, he said. The company also offers health insurance and other benefits to employees.

Fair pay and benefits have been central to our success, Barber said. Our turnover is low, which saves considerable money and time by keeping the employees weve worked hard to train, and they do better quality work with fewer costly errors.

Jennie Groff, CEO of Stroopies Inc., echoed this sentiment in her remarks at the press conference, adding that her business success and upcoming expansion to a new distribution center are the result of its commitment to caring for employees.

Stroopies Inc., and its storefront Lancaster Sweet Shoppe, start employees at $12 an hour. The company employs multiple refugee women for the operation making 10,000 stroopwaffles per week, and just recently hired five additional refugee women to work there.

Our experience as a small company demonstrates that paying livable wages is not only doable, it is good for business, Groff added.

Will Legislature act?

Two Republicans members of the Pennsylvania Senate, including Appropriations Committee Chair Sen. Pat Browne, R-Lehigh County, told PennLive in March they support raising the states minimum wage to $10 an hour.

Wolf said at Wednesdays press conference he hopes that this is finally the time the General Assembly takes action. The Legislature last came close to raising the wage in November 2019, with the Senate passing a bill to raise it to $9.50 an hour. It never got voted on by the House.

Still, workers like Maria Angelica Rojas, who spoke during Wolfs press conference Wednesday, said she and other frontline workers deserve to make a higher wage, especially after putting their health and the health of their families on the line during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since Ive arrived [from Mexico 15 years ago], Ive worked very hard, said Rojas, a mushroom industry worker in Kennett Square. I paid my taxes every year. Ive worked 12 hours a day, 7 days a week, many jobs at the same time I do my work with pride and dignity.

There were an estimated 74,400 Pennsylvanians who earned $7.25 or less in 2020 of the 6.3 million people eligible for the workforce in the state, according to a March 2021 report from the Department of Labor and Industrys Minimum Wage Advisory Board. There were an estimated 693,100 Pennsylvania employees who earned slightly above minimum wage -- $7.26 to $12 -- in 2020, according to the report.

Pennsylvanias 2.4% of workers at or below the minimum wage is higher than the rest of the nation, where only 1.5% of employees make the federal minimum, according to the report. Unmarried, young women and teenagers between ages 16 and 24 were most likely to be making minimum wage or less. This did not vary much among women of any race or education status.
When: Manheim Central school board meeting, May 17.

What happened: High school Principal Joshua Weitzel presented plans for the June 4 commencement ceremony, a two-part celebration.

First part: An outdoor luncheon for the graduating class will take place during the day on Friday, June 4.

Second part: The commencement ceremony will begin at 7 p.m. at Elden Rettew Stadium. High School Principal Joshua Weitzel will present scholarships and recognize the valedictorian and salutatorian, while Superintendent Peter Aiken will offer congratulatory remarks. Student speakers will be class president Troy Peters and Andrew Rajaratnam. Music will be performed by Timothy Bartsch, Sarah Rhodes, David Graff, Justin Greenly, Bailey Garman and Matthew Siegrist. Manheim Central alumus, Seth Obetz, will address the graduating class. The program will conclude with the induction of the Class of 2021 into the Alumni Association by board member Michael Clair.

Details: Students will have 10 tickets for family members. During the evening ceremony, diplomas will be presented to members of the senior class. Board Vice President Robert Iosue and Clair will accompany Aiken, Weitzel and Assistant Superintendent Amy Flannery in the awarding of diplomas. If it rains commencement will be in the high school auditorium.

Quotable: We wanted to have an event where the entire class could celebrate together. We had a lot of positive feedback from families about last years event, so we also wanted to give families time to celebrate with their student in the stadium, Weitzel said.

Proposed budget: The board approved a proposed final $59.56 million 2021-22 budget with a 3% tax increase, the highest amount allowed by the state without seeking an exception. The budget anticipates a $521,483 surplus. A 3% tax hike would boost taxes by $86, to $2,957, for a resident of a home with a median assessed value of $195,800.

Tax rate debate: Although the board approved the proposed budget unanimously, Iosue said he would favor a 1.5% tax increase, which would yield an $11,961 surplus. Some of our taxpayers are still facing some economic impact from the COVID-19 pandemic. With a 1.5% tax increase, we would still have a surplus and it would be less of an impact on our taxpayers, Iosue said. Defending the higher tax hike, board President Linda Williams said, Were going into a construction/renovation project for the high school, and we may have some unforeseen expenses with that.

Whats next: Business Manager Bryan Howett said he will pull together financial information on a 1.5% tax increase for the next meeting on Monday, June 21. Final adoption of the 2021-22 is slated to occur at that meeting.

Flexible instruction days: The board approved a plan for designated days allowing for an asynchronous learning day for students. Teachers would provide a lesson plan online for students to compete in three days. The nice thing about this is that depending on the weather situation, we could make the call for a flexible learning day the night before so parents could have time to make plans for their students flexible learning day, Flannery said.
When: Manheim Township commissioners meeting, May 24, in person at Manheim Township Public Library and also held virtually.

What happened: Philip Mellott, director of Public Works, explained how the gated system works at the compost park, including improved ways to distribute access cards.

Details: Staff will be on site Friday evenings, Saturdays and Sundays through mid-June to assist residents. A phone number for assistance will be posted at the kiosk, and an additional kiosk will be installed. Residents can load money into their accounts at the municipal office now, at Stauffer Mansion in two to three weeks and at Manheim Township Public Library when it opens fully. Mellott recommended the board wait until later this year before opening the park to nonresidents so as not to overwhelm the park with grass clippings, which happened before.

Demolition and parking lot: The board approved a request by Mennonite Home Communities to tear down a portion of an old and inefficient building at 1520 Harrisburg Pike and replace it with a 140-space employee parking lot within the 100-year floodplain elevation that would eliminate the need for employees to park at nearby Woodcrest Villa and be shuttled to the home.

Car wash proposal: The board will hold a public hearing at a commissioners meeting at 6 p.m. Aug. 9 on a proposal by RNJ Washes LLC to build a car wash on the site of the former Stauffers of Kissel Hill at 1850 Oregon Pike and the former bar next door. Owners are Ryan, Nelson and Jeff Bollinger. This follows last years abandonment of a plan for a Rutters at the site.

Clean water: The municipality will offer free stream restoration and basin retrofit tours on June 5 at 9 a.m. at Jaycee Park, at 11 a.m. at Stoner Park and at 1 p.m. at Overlook Park. For reservations, call Wendy at 717-569-6406, Ext. 1129. Commissioner Carol Gifford said the purpose of the tours to promote clean water and native plants.

Coffee with a Commissioner: Residents are welcome to stop by from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. June 12 at Overlook Park Pool for conversations with two commissioners.
BEIJING (AP)  China on Thursday put a Chinese Australian writer on trial for alleged espionage and denied the Australian ambassador in Beijing access to the hearing.

Yang Hengjun has been held since arriving in China in January 2019 and has had no access to family and only limited contact with his lawyer, the Australian government has said.

Ambassador Graham Fletcher walked to the court complex gate in Beijing and returned after he was denied entry, telling journalists it was regrettable that diplomats were prevented from observing the trial.

His government had been told earlier that a representative would not be allowed to attend the trial because it is a national security case. Fletcher said China has only said that the charge against Yang involves espionage.

This is deeply regrettable and concerning and unsatisfactory, Fletcher said. Weve had longstanding concerns about this case, including lack of transparency, and therefore have concluded that it's an arbitrary detention.

Authorities have not released any details of the charges against Yang, a novelist who reportedly formerly worked for China's Ministry of State Security as an intelligence agent.

Yangs lawyer, Mo Shaoping, said the hearing concluded shortly before 5 p.m., with a verdict to be issued at a later date, but declined further comment, saying the case involves state secrets."

Yang has denied the accusation against him, and while a conviction is virtually certain, it isn't clear when the verdict will be handed down. The espionage charge carries penalties ranging from three years in prison to the death penalty.

In comments believed to have been dictated to diplomats in March and reproduced in Australian media, Yang said the lack of fresh air and sunshine had taken a toll on his health but that spiritually, Im still strong.

There is nothing more liberating than having ones worst fears realized, Yang said.

Fletcher said Australian diplomats last met with Fletcher via video link last month and were able to convey messages to and from his family. Yang appeared to be in satisfactory health, Fletcher said.

Australia will continue to advocate strongly" for Yang and did not see a link between his case and the overall state of ties with China, Fletcher said.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said China was following international practice in barring observers from attending a case involving state secrets.

China is firmly opposed to the Australian sides unwarranted disruption in Chinas law-based handling of the case and its gross interference with Chinas judicial sovereignty. We have made serious complaints with the Australian side, Zhao said at a daily briefing.

The trial comes at a time of deteriorating relations between the two countries, brought on by Chinese retaliation against Australian legislation against foreign involvement in its domestic politics, the exclusion of telecommunications giant Huawei from its 5G phone network, and calls for an independent investigation into the origins of the COVID-19 outbreak that was first detected in China in late 2019.

Beijing has essentially suspended all but the most routine contacts between the sides, while state media and the Foreign Ministry routinely attack Australia as adopting anti-Chinese policies at the behest of the United States, China's main geopolitical rival.

Australian journalists Michael Smith of the Australian Financial Review and Bill Birtles of the Australian Broadcasting Corp. fled China in September after sheltering in Australian diplomatic compounds following demands for questioning by Chinese authorities. They were allowed to depart China under a deal brokered between the two governments, leaving Australian media without a physical presence in the country.

Before their departure, Chinese police questioned both journalists about Australian citizen Cheng Lei, a business news anchor for CGNT, Chinas English-language state media channel, who had been detained a month earlier.

China says Cheng has been lawfully detained on suspicion of violating Chinese national security laws.

China has blocked Australian exports including beef, wine, coal, lobsters, wood and barley. However, Australias most lucrative export, iron ore, still has eager buyers among Chinese steel manufacturers.

Amnesty Internationals China head, Joshua Rosenzweig, said the allegations against Yang were based on criticism of the Chinese government in articles he published.

Having reportedly endured hundreds of interrogations and been held in inhumane conditions with severely restricted access to his lawyer, Yang now faces an unfair trial behind closed doors. He remains at grave risk of torture and other ill-treatment, Rosenzweig said in an emailed statement.

Yangs case illustrates how China targets political opponents and human rights activists with its opaque legal system, including detention without notice and secret hearings, Rosenzweig said.
THE ISSUE

A vote is expected this week in the U.S. Senate on legislation to create an independent commission to investigate the events of Jan. 6. As The Associated Press reported, the bill is the product of bipartisan negotiations by House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., and the top Republican on that panel, New York Rep. John Katko. It would consist of 10 members  five appointed by Democrats and five appointed by Republicans. The legislation passed easily in the House, as 35 Republicans joined with Democrats last week in voting for it. U.S. Rep. Lloyd Smucker of Lancaster County voted against it.

We first were inclined to mock the increasingly desperate attempts of congressional Republicans to whitewash the horrific events of Jan. 6.

One letter writer did this brilliantly in the Sunday LNP | LancasterOnline Perspective section. Responding to Georgia Congressman Andrew Clydes assertion that the violent Jan. 6 insurrection was akin to a normal tourist visit to the U.S. Capitol, Don Rossi of Manheim Township suggested making the day an annual holiday. On that holiday, he suggested, patriots could bring their flags  Confederate and QAnon flags included  to the Capitol, where they could enjoy wall climbing and a Capitol Rotunda mosh pit. Food, important papers, plaques and computers are on the House, so bring your zip ties to secure your souvenirs, Rossi wrote.

It was satire as cutting as barbed wire.

In reality, theres no humor in this situation. The Jan. 6 insurrection was a devastating attack on our democracy. And politicians like Smucker advanced the aims of the insurrectionists by arguing without basis in law or fact that votes of Americans, cast legally in November, should be nullified by Congress.

Now some Republican lawmakers are resisting a commission to examine the terrible events of that day.

We find it puzzling that law-and-order Republicans, who claim to back the blue, dont want an exhaustive investigation into an attack in which more than 140 law enforcement officers  including one whose eye was gouged  were injured.

Of course, Smucker was fined $5,000 for failing to pass through a security screening on his way to the House floor last week, according to multiple U.S. Capitol Police reports, while disregarding clearly stated verbal directions from officers. So perhaps law and order are concepts that Smucker only embraces when campaigning.

We find it hard to imagine ignoring the verbal directions of some of the very officers who protected Congress from a violent siege just months before. Wed likely go out of our way to show our respect to them. But Smucker only returned for the mandatory security screening after voting on the House floor  at his convenience, it seems.

The wider resistance to a Jan. 6 commission shows a similarly disturbing lack of respect for security.

Republicans insist with straight faces that legislation negotiated by Rep. Katko, a stalwart Republican and former federal prosecutor, is somehow biased against them.

Perhaps their resistance stems from their guilt about having ginned up the Big Lie claiming that the November election was stolen from former President Donald Trump.

But are they capable of feeling guilty? After all, they took oaths pledging to protect the Constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic. To still insist that an attack on the heart of our democracy doesnt merit an independent investigation requires a disturbing lack of conscience. And logic.

If this attack doesnt merit investigation, what would?

Local connections

For residents of Lancaster County, the Jan. 6 insurrection wasnt a distant thing. County residents, including Elizabethtown Area school board candidates Danielle and Stephen Lindemuth, traveled to Washington, D.C., that day to take part in the rally at which Trump urged rallygoers to march to the Capitol.

Michael Lopatic, of Manheim Township, has been charged with repeatedly punching one police officer in the head outside the Capitol, LNP | LancasterOnlines Dan Nephin has reported.

And, as Nephin reported last Saturday, the far-right anti-government group the Oath Keepers met in the Quarryville area on Jan. 3 to plan for Jan. 6, according to an affidavit filed as part of a federal criminal complaint in the U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C.

This will be the day we get our comms on point with multiple other patriot groups, share rally points etc. This one is important and I believe this is our last chance to organize before the show. This meeting will be for leaders only, James Breheny, an Oath Keeper from New Jersey who was arrested last week for crimes related to the Capitol breach, wrote to Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes.

According to BuzzFeed News, prosecutors investigating the Capitol insurrection have charged 13 other people associated with the Oath Keepers.

It sickens us to know that the Oath Keepers met in Lancaster Countys southern end.

It sickens us that some lawmakers wont stand up for democracy, that they arent determined to get at the truth of the horrors of Jan. 6.

A mothers plea

Even U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania, who voted to convict Trump in February for the high crime and misdemeanor of inciting the insurrection, has been frustratingly evasive about how hell vote on the commission bill.

Im still evaluating it, Toomey said, according to a tweet Tuesday from Forbes reporter Andrew Solender.

We hope Toomey will heed the plea of Gladys Sicknick, the mother of Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick, who suffered two strokes and died the day after defending lawmakers from the insurrectionists.

Gladys Sicknick will be on Capitol Hill today, hoping to meet with Republican senators.

In a statement first reported by Politico, Gladys Sicknick said that her son and his fellow police officers fought for hours and hours against those animals who were trying to take over the Capitol Building and our Democracy, as we know it.

D.C. Metropolitan Police Officer Michael Fanone was beaten, shocked with a stun gun and dragged down the Capitol steps. He told CNN last month that what he experienced Jan. 6 was the most brutal, savage, hand-to-hand combat of my entire life, let alone my policing career, which spans almost two decades.

As Gladys Sicknick wrote in her statement, Not having a January 6 Commission to look into exactly what occurred is a slap in the faces of all the officers who did their jobs that day. ... I suggest that all Congressmen and Senators who are against this Bill visit my sons grave in Arlington National Cemetery and, while there, think about what their hurtful decisions will do to those officers who will be there for them going forward.

Sen. Toomey: How do you respond to this? How do you answer this question Gladys Sicknick asked of lawmakers in her statement: Putting politics aside, wouldnt they want to know the truth of what happened on January 6? If not, they do not deserve to have the jobs they were elected to do.

In a brief interview with The Washington Post, the grieving mother said, My son has been gone for over four months and I want answers, thats all.

Of course, she wants answers. And shes entitled to them.

All Americans are.

Republicans understandably insisted on investigating the deadly 2012 terrorist attack on U.S. government facilities in Benghazi, Libya.

We join others in pointing out that for Senate Republicans now to block an investigation into a terrorist attack on the U.S. Capitol is not just the height of hypocrisy but of craven negligence.

If we dont get a thorough independent investigation into what transpired Jan. 6  if we dont learn why and precisely how it happened  we risk another such attack. Only next time, Brian Sicknick wont be there to defend our democracy. And surviving police officers, faced with evidence of congressional inaction and cowardice, may wonder why they should risk their lives when members of Congress wont even summon the courage to seek the truth.
This transcript appears in the May 28, 2021 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.

[Print version of this transcript]

ZEPP-LAROUCHE WEBCAST

A Different Approach from Russia and China Threatens the Globalist Oligarchs Great Reset and Green New Deal

The following is an edited transcript of The LaRouche Organizations Weekly Webcast with Helga Zepp-LaRouche, Friday, May 21, 2021

Harley Schlanger: The first story we want to cover is the Global Health Summit conference in Rome, Italy taking place today. The speech by Chinas President Xi Jinping today at that conference was important. Helga, what can you tell us about that conference?

Helga Zepp-LaRouche: We were trying to create an environment around this summit to make sure the agenda would be up to the standard required. We circulated a statement by the Committee for the Coincidence of Opposites, an organization created by me and Dr. Joycelyn Elders, former U.S. Surgeon General, to fight for a world health system: meaning a world health system in every single country. Every nation must have a modern healthcare system, not just vaccines, not just supplies, but to have modern hospitals, advanced doctors and nurses, and all the equipment which every country could have, and therefore, should have. We have circulated that statement among, I would say, hundreds, if not thousands of members of parliament around the world, ambassadors, institutions of all kinds.

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CGTN

We do not yet know the full outcome of this summit. I got a preliminary report, and I saw an excerpt of Xi Jinpings statement. He was invited by the organizers of the conference, which was Prime Minister Mario Draghi, as the Italian President of the G-20 and EU Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen. They invited Xi Jinping, which makes good sense, because China is the country which has the best record in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Xi Jinping elaborated a five-point program in which he said that there must be a global community of health and that the lives and health of people must be put front and center, and that we must guarantee that every single life is protected. This has been the foundation of the policy of the Chinese government in fighting the pandemic. So, I think this is a very good start. There are many other important leaders: I saw that Mexican President Lopez Obrador is there. We will give an evaluation if this summit did live up to the demand of this pandemic once it is concluded.

But I think it is not enough to lift the patent, which President Biden recently said. We completely support that, and there are obviously ways how firms can be compensated, but the question is how do you transmit the technology, the technology transfer to the developing countries so that production sites can be erected in the countries and continents where these vaccines must be administered. So this is a very important test for the ability of the world to respond to such a crisis.

This is a very important point, because, as we have said many times, the fight against this pandemic and the recognition that this pandemic was completely unnecessarythis by the way has been stated by the World Health Organization in noting that most governments responded much too late and had a laissez-faire approach. If every country had hospital systems, as they did in Wuhan, where if you dont have enough hospital beds, you can build a modern hospital in one week with 1,000 beds, the spread of this pandemic could have been halted. That, however, requires sufficient electricity, energy, clean water, and other infrastructure. And that is why we will continue this fight to say that this must be the starting point to seriously overcome the underdevelopment in the developing countries. So this is just one moment in a battle, but an important point to review.

Russia-China Collaboration on a Nuclear Power Station

Schlanger: What you were just describing is a different approach than what most governments have taken, and we see now, a collaboration between Russia and China which is becoming more close, more intense, with the dialogue yesterday between Presidents Xi and Putin on the opening of construction of a nuclear project. This really is quite different from the Green New Deal and whats being pushed by the unipolar system.

Zepp-LaRouche: Yes, its very refreshing, because President Putin and President Xi Jinping decided to celebrate the collaboration of China and Russia in the construction of four new nuclear reactors, with the help of Russian technologynot only the construction as such, but to make it a point that this is the beginning of a much larger contribution of the two countries to work to improve the innovation for all of humanity. And Xi Jinping in particular said they want to make a decisive contribution to such a transformation. I think this is extremely important: Because if these two countriesone being one of the two largest nuclear powers, Russia; and China being the second largest economy, and also becoming a sizable military forceif these two countries decide they will go on a course of advanced technology, higher energy flux-densities. And given the fact that their attitude is sharing a lot of projects, a lot of technology with developing countries, this is becoming a very attractive model, and it really breaks this Green New Deal, and I think it is a good example of how you can go about things in a completely different way.

Schlanger: The trans-Atlantic think tanks like the Atlantic Council, the Royal Institute of International Affairs/Chatham House, the Council on Foreign Relations, are very focussed on their fears of a Russia-China military alliance. But I think whats more threatening to them is that were seeing the potential for economic collaboration, against the project of the Great Reset and Green New Deal.

India and Africa

Now, theres a very important presentation, also, from Wang Yi, the foreign minister of China, who was talking about the need for more cooperation to help Africa. What did he say?

Zepp-LaRouche: There was a UN Security Council Open Debate On Peace and Security in Africa, where Wang Yi, who now holds the rotating presidency, called on the international community to upgrade their efforts to help Africa to deal with the pandemic; not just the distribution of vaccines, but everything, the supply of all medical requirements, of really helping Africa to overcome the lack of infrastructure and lack of development which is why theyre so absolutely threatened right now.

Especially in light of the fact that the pandemic is out of control in India, where a new variant has developed which is an enormous crisis for India; but also creating a situation where India, the main producer of vaccines for Africa, had to virtually stop its export of vaccines to Africa. So, this is why Wang Yi made a very important point.

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CGTN

This Indian situation is horrendous. They had infection rates down in February to very few, less than 10,000 a day, which for a country of 1.3 billion is really very low. But then, I think, they loosened the restrictions too early; they had a lot of religious festivities, and now they have these incredible infection numbers, and theyre completely unequipped. Its a total crisis.

There is a huge mobilization among Indian organizations. There are a lot of overseas Indians in the United States, trying to convince Biden that he should release the 60 million doses of AstraZeneca the United States has in stock, which Biden has not done yet so far, which is a complete outrage. But the situation in India is very grave, because the hospitalsthere are by far not enough hospitals, there is no oxygen. In the rural areas, where many people had fled to, everything is breaking down. And there is now a big danger that eventually the planting season, which is now, may not take place because of the ravaging of this pandemic, and people are worried that this may lead to a severe food shortage by the fall.

So, this all underlines the necessity that only our approach can remedy the situation: A modern health system in every single country, but also doubling food production, because mankind should not be in need of food, when it would be so easy to remedy it.

Malthusianism

Schlanger: When you talk about the positive developments that were seeing with Russia and China, there are a couple of stories Id like you to comment on, that show the opposite: One is this incredible article in the British medical journal The Lancet, which makes the argument that we cannot provide modern health systems for 5 billion people! This is the classic Malthusian approach, but its really quite dangerous.

Zepp-LaRouche: I think its very revealing. This was an article which was published in 2019so long before the pandemic erupted. It says, explicitly, that 5 billion people at that time were not having the advantage of a modern health system and the idea that if you would provide that, that would blow up the climate for the whole planet. This is the same argument that Obama made in 2013, when he was in South Africa in Soweto, in a university. And when a student asked him, what are you providing for Africa in terms of development, Obama said, if everybody wants to have a car, air conditioning and a big house the planet will boil over, so forget about it.

This is the old colonialist idea that the underdevelopment of the developing countries, the non-white parts of the world, that that is certified, cemented forever, that its only a small, preferably white elite that has all the privileges, and that the countries of the developing sector will be kept down. And you can cull the herd, if there are too many of those.

This was discussed by Friedrich Schiller, already in his writings, about The Legislation of Lycurgus and Solon, where he contrasted what became the republican model of state typified by Solon, who when he was asked, what is the purpose of the state, said its the development, the progress of the people; and Schiller contrasted that to Sparta, which was the prototype of the oligarchical model, where, if there were too many slaves, in this case it was the helots, well, you can just shoot them and cull the herd. And that attitude is still what is behind the neo-Malthusian idea, like everybody cant have a car, and you know, in a tropical climate, everybody cant have air conditioning. What an outrage!

So, I think this is really something most people dont think about. They take somehow for granted that the poverty and the underdevelopment of the developing countries would be forever. But this is the absolute declaration of bankruptcy, because if you dont recognize that every human being on this planet has the same inalienable rights as we do, then I think you are on the wrong side of history.

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World Economic Forum/Walter Duerst

Schlanger: The same thing was expressed by Mark Carney, the former Governor of the Bank of England, who basically gave a diktat, that the African countries must not develop industry, and instead should sell their carbon offset to the right countries. This is the same Malthusianism.

Zepp-LaRouche: Yes, this is really outrageous, and I think it would be very good if every country from the developing sector would study what he said there. He did that in the context of the announcement for the COP26, the big climate summit which will take place in November in Glasgow, Scotland. He said there will be a climate offset market until the end of the year, where most of the demand, 90%, will come from the firms of the industrialized countries, and 90% of the supply will come from Africa, who can then trade off, that if they sign contracts that they will not develop their resources, that they will not develop agriculture, that they will basically not industrialize, then they will get a lot of money paid from the Western firms to make such an offset. So they should get money for signing treaties to not develop.

And then he said, if the Western firms invest in that, then there must be permanence and integrity and transparency, so therefore, it must be controlled. And then comes alongwho?the Chief of MI6, Richard Moore, who says that since climate change is the most important foreign policy goal of the British Empire, one can say, MI6 will be conducting worldwide surveillance to ensure that these contracts are met.

This is incredible! This is an open declaration of reintroduction of colonialism, and to have a colonialist police in the form of MI6 to make sure this is happening.

I think the countries should absolutely reject that. Why would they sign an agreement to not develop? This is not well known enough, that there is such an open campaign to reintroduce colonialism in its most naked form!

A Debate on the Origin of

Changes in the Climate

Schlanger: There is a plan to have a debate on the so-called climate change, to get at the question of whether its solar radiation or carbon dioxide thats the causethis is an initiative from Italy.

Zepp-LaRouche: Yes. Its very good. A few months ago, several hundred Italian scientists wrote letters to the Italian government, to the EU Commission, to the United Nations, saying there is no climate emergency, the whole thing is a complete fraud. Out of this circle of scientists, they plan an initiative to have a public debate, whereby the two models of climate change are debated, whether its CO 2 emission, is it man-made climate change? Or is it the astronomic oscillation which has been going on for millions of years, changing always between ice ages and warming periods, small ice ages, as we have seen it for millions of yearsobviously, having just gone through this incredibly cold spring period, one would tend to think maybe some of the Russian scientists who claim we are in a new ice age have a point.

But apart from such ephemeral things, I think its more fundamentally a question of science, and in light of this Green Deal and the Great Reset, some of these people are waking up and recognizing that this is now an absolutely crucial debate to be held. So we can look forward to hearing about that a lot more.

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Left: UN Photo; right: White House/Adam Schultz

Schlanger: Theres also been a lot of focus, for obvious reasons, on the situation between Israel and Palestine. But theres also still the Syrian sanctions, the destruction policy against the people of Yemen, the continuing wars. And it does appear as though there are more people coming around to agree with what your husband, Lyndon LaRouche, said many years ago, that you cant have a political solution, without an economic solution. And the solution weve proposed is economic cooperation. How would that work?

Zepp-LaRouche: I think the situation in the Middle East is terrible. There are very passionate demonstrations. People talk a lot about the role of Israel, but it must be recognized that it was the Biden administration that gave the green light to everything Netanyahu wanted to do, telling him he has as much time as he wants. And unfortunately, this is exactly the same as the Trump administrations policy before. I think its completely terrible.

The plight of the Palestinians is beyond belief. Look at the casualties. Look at the call of Cardinal Zenari, the Apostolic Nuncio to Syria, who reported that more than 90% of the population is in dire need, having fallen below the poverty line over 10 years of war, because of the Caesar sanctions, because of COVID. The situation in Yemen is completely heartbreaking.

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CC/Centro Televisivo Vaticano Cardinal Mario Zenari

The Big Powers Must Drop Geopolitics Now!

We have to have development: The new name for peace is development. That is what Cardinal Zenari said, and frankly, given the complexity of the region, I dont think there is any chance to solve the Israel-Palestine crisis, or any of the other situations unless there is an end to geopolitics among the large powers. The United States, Russia, and China, have to cooperate. Then you can solve the problems in the Middle East easily. It has been used as a cockpit for geopolitical confrontation for a very long time. The plan to solve it starts with the New Silk Road, which President Xi offered as a viable economic plan in 2015, when he visited Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. He proposed extending the New Silk Road into the whole region.

There is a demand coming from the Iraqis, from the Afghanis, from the Syrians, the Yemenis, all wanting to have that kind of cooperation, and if the United States and the Europeans would stop their evil, geopolitical regime-change policy, which still insists that they will not help in the reconstruction of Syria until Assad is removed. This has to stop! Or else, we are creating a Hell for everybody on Earth, and maybe the extinction of the whole human civilization.

Because, if geopolitics is continued, we may end up having no civilization, because the warnings that we are closer to nuclear war than at any time since at least the Cold War, but probably earlier, many such voices are being raised in the recent period. And I think there must be a complete change in thinking. The more people get active, and the more people start to take responsibility, the better the chances are that we can change the situation.

The European Union Idiocy

Schlanger: Another area where there needs to be a change of thinking is the European Union policy toward China. Theres been somewhat of a debate over this recently, in terms of the sanctions policy and so on. Where does this stand?

Zepp-LaRouche: What the European Parliament just did is stupid. They just voted by a large majority to stop the investment agreement between China and the EU that had been agreed upon toward the end of last year, at the insistence of Merkel. They voted to stop that, including MEP Reinhard Butikofer [Greens-Germany], this old Maoist (thats how he started his career), whom I think doesnt like the reforms of Deng Xiaoping, because he is still in the framework of the Cultural Revolution. He tweeted that the Chinese shot themselves in their foot, and now the agreement is out.

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EIRNS

And fortunately, Michele Geraci, who presently is teaching in China, responded to the tweet, saying that it was the EU that requested that agreement to have more access to the Chinese markets, so who shot whom in the foot? Maybe if you think slapping somebody in the face is a big gain, then it is European firms and workforce who have to pay for it.

But this just shows you the utter stupidity of the Greens in particular, but also the victims of this anti-Chinese brainwashing. And people should look at what China is doing: Its completely illegitimate how these accusations against China are being conducted, because in reality many more countries realize that collaboration with Russia and China is to their benefit. Look what is happening right now in Central America, the backyard of the United States, where Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, all want to have cooperation with Russia, with China, and they see where they get an advantage, and where theyre being just used for military purposes.

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Mueller/MSC Hans Joachim Schellnhuber

Schellnhubers New European Bauhaus Proposal

Schlanger: Helga, we have enough time to take up one more example of the idiocy of Greenie ideology, and this is the case of Sir John Schellnhuber and his new proposals for how construction should be done. Its hard to imagine how these guys can be treated as serious thinkers.

Zepp-LaRouche: Well, Schellnhuber has quite a record of polluting any place he goes to: The EU Commission got their guidelines from him on climate change. He defined a lot of Merkels policy on climate change; he unfortunately polluted the Vatican Academy of Sciences, he influenced the present Pope Francis with his ideology, and now he, together with Ursula von der Leyen, started a projectin Weimar, of all places!trying to pollute the beautiful tradition of the Weimar Classics by having a project which they call the New European Bauhaus, whereby Schellnhuber is in the middle of calling for a radical change in construction worldwide. He proposes that all the previous construction material such as concrete, steel, aluminum, glass, be replaced by wood and bamboo only! His idea is that if everything goes well, and everything can be put on a circular economy, by 2050, up to 50% of all construction worldwide should only come from wood and bamboo.

And what they said in a recent internet seminar; they want to convince the not-developed countries to do likewise, and then they want to have 90% of all construction worldwide, be only from wood and bamboo. Now what that will do to the environment and the climate, when you have such an incredible demand for wood, but since they want to reduce the world population to 1 billion or so, maybe they think this can be done. Its insane!

Its completely crazy and they want to call this a New Bauhaus movement. But to do this in Weimar is an assault on the best tradition Germany has, which is the Weimar Classics and it should not be tolerated.

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CNSA

Humanity on Mars

Schlanger: Just so we dont leave our viewers with that bit of insanity, lets end by talking about the Chinese rover, which is now on Mars, preparing for some exploration up there. This is quite exciting.

Zepp-LaRouche: Yes, and I think it shows also how the Chinese are thinking about it, because the rover is called Zhurong, which means the god of fire, and that is the same idea as the idea of Prometheus who stole fire from Zeus and brought it to human beings for the benefit of their livelihood and production and improving their lives. So to call it Zhurong, by bringing that kind of power to Mars is beautiful.

Now three nations are in the midst of Mars missions: The United States, which already made some breakthroughs by having its little helicopter Ingenuity successfully fly on Mars, which is incredible; the United Arab Emirates, and now China. We will see what these Mars missions will accomplish. Thats the way to go. We have to look to the stars to get a perspective for the future of humanity and not be some backward oriented people who want to turn history back, like the Schellnhubers of this Earth.

Schlanger: We started by talking about a different approach: This is what you have been fighting for, with the Schiller Institute, with the idea of a new paradigm, and were seeing it come into existence in spite of extraordinary efforts by the oligarchy to send us back into the Dark Ages. So Helga, thanks for joining us today, and well see you next week.

Zepp-LaRouche: Till next week.
Dawn Aerospace, a New Zealand/Dutch aerospace company, has today announced significant backing from NZ's largest tech investment firm, Movac.

Dawn is creating next-generation space transportation technologies. This investment will be used to scale the production of Dawn's in-space propulsion products, and to progress Dawn's Mk-II, a suborbital plane that utilises rocket engines, to a fully-fledged commercial service.

"This funding will help us scale production to meet customer demand, and continue developing products and services for the future of sustainable space transportation," said Stefan Powell, Dawn CTO and Co-founder. "We're thrilled to have the support of the talented team at Movac, and the continued support of our existing investors."

Movac partner Mark Stuart commented: "We're delighted to be able to work alongside Stefan and the Dawn team. Dawn's technology and level of ambition is really compelling, and given our experience in working alongside some of the New Zealand's most ambitious founders, we think it's an excellent match."

Movac has invested in a number of successful New Zealand tech companies including Vend, Unleashed Software, Aroa Biosurgery, PowerbyProxi, Greenbutton and Trade Me. Global From Day One (GD1) and Dawn's existing investors - Icehouse Ventures and Erik Swan - have also contributed.

Dawn has provided in-space propulsion products - used to propel satellites in space - to customers globally since 2019. These propulsion units have launched on SpaceX, Soyuz and Vega launchers, and the B20 thruster has since been validated in hundreds of on-orbit firings. Customers for the products include an IoT constellation, a space tug provider and Earth observation companies.

Dawn's Mk-II suborbital spaceplane has been certified for flight in New Zealand and is currently undergoing precommercial testing. Customers for the Mk-II service will include weather agencies, government entities and start-ups. The vehicle is capable of capturing atmospheric data and will be used as a test bed for technology demonstrations. Much of the technology in this platform will also be utilised in Dawn's Mk-III; an orbital satellite launch vehicle.

Dawn last week relocated its NZ-based operations to a larger facility in Christchurch - an 1800 sqm workshop and office space. The new premises will support increased production and scaled R&D.

Please follow SpaceRef on Twitter and Like us on Facebook.
This transcript appears in the May 28, 2021 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.

PALESTINE AND ISRAEL

A Desperate Case Cries Out

For a New Paradigm

[Print version of this transcript]

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Hussein Askary

This is an edited transcript of remarks delivered by Hussein Askary to The LaRouche Organizations Manhattan Town Hall webcast on May 22, 2021. Mr. Askary is Southwest Asia Coordinator for the Schiller Institute. A video of the full meeting is available here.

Lyndon LaRouche often said that you dont have any problems in Southwest Asia that have not been created by the British Empire. We are now seeing in the current clash between Israel and Palestine a classic case of geopolitical manipulation of religion and politics and geography to pit nations against each other, peoples against each other. Before the British Empire got its nose into this region in 1917, we didnt have any problems between Jews and Muslims and Christians and so on. Its a tragic situation. In Gaza, for example, there is a horrendous situation. The living conditions are similar to an open prison.

The lying Western media have been talking about Xinjiang in China being an open-air prison and a concentration camp, which is a complete lie, but they are completely blind to the fact that what the Palestinian peopleespecially in Gazahave been subjected to is prison camp or concentration camp conditions.

The thing with tragedies is that the people who are inside the tragedy are not able to solve the problem per se, because they are locked into a dead end. Both Hamas and the current Israeli government of Benjamin Netanyahu are into a game which they believe has nothing to do with anything else than their own goals. The reality is that there is a much bigger picture in which we, who are outside the tragedy so to speak, can situate this problem and find a solution to it. So, the problem does not come from the Palestinians or Jews or anybody, although they are now, in the news media, the major players. The Israelis are shooting rockets, so the Palestinians are shooting rockets, and so on and so forth. But thats not really the real story.

Some History

Last week on the Manhattan Town Hall meeting, Harley Schlanger did a fantastic job of explaining the historical background for this.

Im just going to touch on a few crucial matters of that history. As I just said, there is this British game which continues up to today. The people who planned this knew it was going to continue. But the thing which is important for us today is to situate these events in Gaza of today and in Southwest Asia in the larger context, when and where these things are happening. This is something we have learned from Lyndon LaRouche: We cannot understand any event by itself without looking at the larger context; otherwise we wont be able to find a solution for that.

I wrote on Facebook, a few weeks before the recent outbreak, that there are very interesting moves in the region, that can point to a different direction than what we have seen in the past sixwe count the years by how many American administrations there have beenso we had two Obama administrations and one Trump administration. Thats the diary, and during these three administrations we had a terrible situation in the region, but recently we had very important developments taking place concerning countries in this region. But also, it involves Russia and China.

The first foreign policy declaration by President Biden was that the United States is back. Now, that was a terrifying message as I recollect when I heard it. The thing is that what Biden means is that what the Trump administration did in this region by disengaging from many issues therefor example, regime-change wars and launching new warsthat made the United States to lose its leadership in the region and in the world. And therefore, the United States should take the leadership in this region back, but from whom? From China and Russia, because according to the Biden administration, the vacuum created by the lack of U.S. leadership was filled by Russia and China, but it was filled by Russia and China for a good reason with a good policy.

Positive Developments

Recently we had the possibility of the 5+1the 5 permanent members of the UN Security Council, plus Germanyreopening the negotiations with Iran for the nuclear deal, the JCPOA, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. Lifting the sanctions against Iran and having Iran cooperate with the international community so to speak, on its own nuclear program to limit Irans possibility to produce a nuclear weapon, although Iran never had that intention. In any case, these negotiations were going well, it was also still going on in Vienna.

Iran and China had signed a very strategic and economic joint agreement for 25 years, mostly on economic development along what the Chinese now call the Belt and Road Initiative, the New Silk Road. Iran and China will work intensively to build infrastructure, develop industry, transfer technology, and other strategic and military cooperation.

At the same time Saudi Arabia and Iran, who are rivals in this region, the big Sunni-Shia rivals, had started negotiations in Baghdad, the Iraqi capital, to ease the tension and find ways of ending their so-called proxy wars in other parts of the region. We had the prospect of Syria re-entering the Arab League and ending the war there in which Russia has played a key role. We also had the prospects of having a new Yemen envoy to the UN instead of the British diplomat who has been actually playing a dirty game in Yemen in the last few yearsa new envoy who will start negotiations.

The Iran-Saudi negotiations will have a positive effect on solving the horrible situation in Yemen, which has been discussed many times in your shows, and Mrs. Helga Zepp-LaRouche has made an issue of lifting the blockade and sanctions on Yemen, which are genocidal.

Also, at the same time, we had the Libya situation becoming calm due to interventions by many nations, but especially Russia, Egypt, and Turkey working together to stabilize the situation. Egypt and Turkey, which have been rivals for the past 10-12 years, are now re-approaching each other diplomatically.

So, you had a situation in the region where things were going in the right direction, and suddenly, we had the increase of tension in Palestine and Israel, with East Jerusalem first in the Sheik Jarrah neighborhood, which was about to be taken over by Israeli Jewish settlers from its Arab inhabitants. But the core decision was delayed, but then you had all the rioting and the brutal treatment by the Israeli police of the Palestinians. And Hamas, from Gaza, intervening with its rockets. So, we had this development which everybody saw on the news.

The problem is, there are people who, if we dont look at the general context, if we dont look at the history of this conflict, there are certain fallacies which people push out.

Palestinians and Israelis Not Treated as Equals

For example, the idea that Israel and Palestine are treated as equal, but Israel is one of the strongest military powers in the world. Its backed by the most advanced military power in the worldthe United States. They have the most advanced weapons and intelligence and everything. The Palestinians dont have that.

The other thing is that the Palestinians dont really have a state. So, you cannot demand from the Palestinians to take certain actions when they are living in a state-less condition and being oppressed both in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.

People say, Why cant the Palestinians live in peace with the Jews and the Israelis? The problem is, the Palestinians are not treated as equals, they are not treated as humans, even. Also, what they are seeingand this is something which Harley Schlanger discussed last weekthat we have an ideology in Israel, especially in the right wing like Netanyahus party, the Likud and other extreme so-called Zionist political parties and religious groups, who really dont consider the Palestinians or the Arabs as people whom they should live with and who should exist there. We remember Ariel Sharons old slogan that Jordan is Palestine. His idea was that the Palestinians should be moved, transferred to Jordan where they can have their Palestinian state, but not on the so-called Holy Land.

Therefore, we have many issues that are not resolved; but solving them could become easier if we look back at the history of the situation. There are UN Resolutions that can give the Palestinian people and the Arab countries a fair solution to this problem, and make sure that the moderate forces in the Arab world and in Palestine are the ones who have the upper hand, not the extremists.

Just to recall, one thing we have discussed and developed, in the LaRouche movement and Executive Intelligence Review, is that Hamas, for example, has its own agenda. Its part of the international Muslim Brotherhood movement, and it does not do things just for national interest. The problem with the Muslim Brotherhood is it has been the creation of the British Empire, and has been manipulated, including by the CIA, to oppose the nationalist anti-imperialist forces in the whole Southwest Asia region and the Arab world. So, Hamas itselfand Im making myself unpopular now in the Arab countrieshas its own agenda, exactly as Benjamin Netanyahu and his people have their own agenda. [box: From the Discussion]

I just want to share with you a few things on the historical background to understand how the British manipulated the situation.

The Post-World War I British Trap

While World War I was going on, you had young people dying on the Western Front, Germans, French, and even Americans were involved later, by the tens of thousands. The British were planning, together with the French, other things somewhere else in the world. We have described it as the Sykes-Picot Agreement. The British and the French would divide the territories of the old Ottoman Empire, which also included what is today Palestine, Israel. It was still under control of the Ottomans, the Turks, until that point.

So, they were planning that, and then at the same timeNovember 1917the British presented what is historically called the Balfour Declaration. The Balfour Declaration was a letter sent by Lord Arthur Balfour, the Foreign Secretary of Britain, to Lord Rothschild, who was the head of the UK-based Zionist Federation. In that letter, the British, as you see in the text, are willing to have a Jewish Zionist state in Palestine. This is an admission that there was such a place called Palestine, but the British wanted to offer that as a homeland for the Jews in Europe.

The thing is, what the British set up is actually a trap, both for the Jews and for the nations of the region. Because prior to thatits a bit humorous how some of these Jewish organizations in the 19th Century and even the early 20th Century were thinking where their future Jewish state should be. And you can find it on the internet if you look for proposals for a Jewish state. There are about 10 or 11 proposals; none of them include Palestine. These are places in the U.S., there is a place in Uganda, there was one in Russia, Japan, Madagascar, in Guyana, Ethiopia, and so on.

But the British chose Palestine because they had their own plans for how to divide and conquer this region. It is also situated at the crossroads of the continents and the oceans, which the British planned to either control forever or manipulate through others like the United States. And the U.S. is being manipulated now into supporting Israel in whatever Israel does, so that the conflict continues. There is no way out of such a conflict. This is one of the sinister things the British created, like they did in Kashmir and so on, which is a big problem.

The Way Out

The problem now is how to get out of that situation. We cannot get out of that problem by rolling back history. You cannot negate the existence of the Israeli state; you cannot either ask the Palestinians to leave for Jordan, as Sharon wanted to do, to have their own state.

We should, rather, follow certain steps, make certain compromises to allow the Palestinian people to have their own state. Because without a Palestinian state, you would have this continuous problem where the Palestinians continue to lose territory and power, and they will have to resort to either rioting, or as we have seen recently, rocket attacks on Israel. Hamas knows it cannot defeat Israel with military means, but what they want to show Israel is that Israelis cannot be safe being there while exerting that kind of force and policy against the Palestinians.

Which is correct. Its not only the Palestinians. Israelis cannot exist in a region of 100 million Egyptians, 40 million Iraqis, millions of Jordanians, 30 million Syrians, and 5 million Lebanese. They may think they can live like an island of peace and tranquility in the midst of a hell they are contributing to createjust as Israel played a key role in the war on Syria in recent years, also in Lebanon.

There are certain ways of getting to diplomatic ways of resolving the Palestinian issue. We have United Nations resolutions, which clearly mark where the Palestinians could have their own state, and the Israelis could have their state. There is UN Resolution 242, which came after the 1967 War in which Israel occupied the West Bank and Gaza and Golan Heights and other parts and the Sinai Peninsula. This Resolution was voted unanimously by the United Nations Security Council, including the United States. But people have been dragging their feet on that.

Figure 1 UN Partition Plan of 1947 View full size



Figure 1 is an old map of the Partition Plan of 1947, before the first Arab-Israeli war and before Israel was officially established, where the blue indicates the extent of Israel. The UN Partition Plan was supposed to solve the problem at the time. Remember, President Roosevelt had been very active in the last year of his life, when he met with leaders of the region. In his discussions with the Saudi king, Abdul Aziz ibn-Saud, he suggested the king intervene with the other Arab leaders to resolve the problems created by the British in the region in this Palestinian area.

Inside the Tragedy

That was because Roosevelt sensed that he had to stop this British game in the region, but also because there were moves inside the United States to entangle the United States in this conflict. Through what later emerged, especially under Harry Truman, so-called election considerations forced the United States to side completely with the Israeli side. Roosevelt was trying to get the Arabs to accept a compromise to establish this so-called Two-State Solution and stop the British geopolitical manipulation. But that did not happen. Roosevelt died; the British continued to control there.

But then the British pulled out and allowed the Israelis to take even more of the Palestinian land, as you can see marked on the Figure 1 map in pink and green. The pink areas were taken in 1949; the green areasthe West Bank and Gazawere taken in 1967, as was East Jerusalem.

Figure 2 Illegal Settlement in the West Bank View full size



Figure 2 shows the illegal settlements that have been built in the West Bank, which started after the Oslo Accords. The Israelis have been building illegal settlements in these occupied areas, shown in the dark red areas. So, the Palestinians are living in these enclaves in the West Bank which are cut off by a series of settlements by the Jewish settlers, and also walled off. Israel had walls built between the different parts of the West Bank.

The Palestinians see their land shrinking more and more, and their rights disappearing. The Palestinians are told they should stop complaining and accept whatever they are offered. The problem is that the Palestinians have looked at this history, and seen their country shrinking, their water being stolen from them, and every other right. They know that Netanyahu and his supporters have no intention of establishing a Palestinian state.

Actually, even the Arab IsraelisArabs inside Israel who are Israeli citizensare also being targetted right now. Last year the Israeli Knesset removed Arabic language from existence inside Israel; they decided there shouldnt be any Arabic language. So, the Arabs in Israel also see themselves threatened. They are the ones who have been making lots of demonstrations in recent weeks. They are Israeli citizens, but they have an Arab ethnic background.

Asking the Palestinians to stop complaining is like asking the woman who is beaten by her husband all the time, that she should stop complaining so her husband will stop beating her. The problem is, the husband continues beating her because hes a sociopath; hes an insane person. Somebody comes with a statistical study like we see all the timeJared Kushner is typical. The theory is that the more the woman complains, the more there is abuse. Therefore, complaining is counterproductive. So, the Palestinians should stop complaining because that creates the problem. This enormous injustice continues, and the Palestinians can see all of this and that their future and their childrens future is enormously threatened. There is no future in view, there are major powers who are against them, and they have no allies. Thats what creates the enormous frustration among the Palestinians who see no other way than fighting back. Thats really terrible.

Economic Development Required for Southwest Asia

Besides the diplomatic solutions I mentionedeither a two-state solution going back to the Oslo Agreement, or going back to the United Nations solutionswe need to have a solution for the whole region, which was vigorously advocated by Lyndon LaRouche from the 1970s.

The only way out of these wars is economic cooperation, economic development, especially in terms of water resources, transportation, electricity, education, and health care. I think this is the important issue to discuss now: Take the whole so-called Palestinian issue back to the big powers, as Helga Zepp-LaRouche has mentioned. We should have a summit of the major powers. LaRouche called it the Four Powersthe United States, Russia, China, and India. We can also discuss the United Nations Security Council powers and others, to have a discussion about establishing peace in this whole region with economic development.

I think the best solution which we have hadwhich has worked and is achieving things on the groundis what China is doing with the Belt and Road Initiative, the New Silk Road. Building infrastructure, health care, and so on. Russia is also playing a key role in providing specific technologies like nuclear power to nations in the region, to Iran, and now Egypt, and with other African nations.

So scientific and technological cooperation, economic cooperation is the solution. It has been since LaRouche announced it in the early 1970s, and it will continue to be so in the future. I think this is one of the big issues that has to be put on the table for people, so we dont get entangled in these ethnic and religious matters. There were no real ethnic or religious problems between Jews and Arabs before the British Empire stuck its nose into this region.
This editorial appears in the May 28, 2021 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.

EDITORIAL

Crush Malthusianism

In All Its Evil Formulations

[Print version of this editorial]

May 23When you hear that leaders of the U.S. and the U.K. would be willing to risk nuclear war, even knowing that their own countries would be decimated and civilization could be destroyed, do you doubt that it were possible, that one would have to be insane to think in that way?

When you are told that the Green New Deal plans to eliminate all fossil fuels and nuclear power, and rely only on renewables like solar and wind, which would be capable of sustaining only a small fraction of the current human population, is your response that those promoting it could not possibly intend such a genocidal result?

If your answer to either question is yes, then you have rejected the evidence in plain sight that those leaders are open, proud supporters of the ideas of Pastor Thomas Malthus, that population growth must be stopped, or the human race will destroy itself.

The argument has taken many forms over the centuriesPastor Malthus himself argued that human population growth is geometric, while food production is arithmetic, leading inevitably to famine, depression, and depopulation. In the heyday of the British Empires colonial expansion, eugenicsrace sciencewas preached by the good pastors of the day, showing scientifically that the white race was superior to the lesser races, justifying both the enforced backwardness and ill treatment of their colonial subjects, with an occasional famine or unrestrained pandemic to cull the herd. Eugenics became unmentionable when the Nazis used it to eliminate Jews and others in gas ovens. After the war, Lord Bertrand Russell (whom Lyndon LaRouche described as the most evil man of his time), wrote, regarding the need to deal with the overpopulation problem:

War  has hitherto been disappointing in this respect  but perhaps bacteriological war may prove more effective. If a Black Death could spread throughout the world once in every generation, survivors could procreate freely without making the world too full. The state of affairs might be somewhat unpleasant, but what of it?

The term eugenics was simply replaced with conservation and environmentalism. Problem solved.

Now, Pastor Malthus has pretended to be a climate scientist, terrifying the children and the child-like with computer printouts which claim that carbonthe food of plants, the food of lifeis actually a pollutant which is heating the planet to a boiling point, which will kill us all if we dont shut down industries, stop eating meat, and, at all costs, prevent under-developed countries from developing into modern industrial nations.

Green Colonialism

To be certain of that, Mark Carney, former Governor of the Bank of England and now the UN Special Envoy on Climate Action and Finance, told a climate conference with African leaders that they must promise that they will not develop their resources nor cut down their trees, nor build any carbon polluting industries or infrastructure, in order to get carbon offsets from industries in industrialized countries. Those industries will continue emitting carbon, while keeping developing countries backward, and their raw materials cheap, by paying a small carbon tax. Carney even told the Africans that green police will have to occupy their countries to enforce non-development and to earn their carbon offsets.

And why do the U.S. and U.K. governments hate Russia and China so much, deploying nuclear armed missiles, planes, and submarines to all of their borders, in Europe, in Asia, and now even in the Arctic? Is it because of their aggression, when, unlike the U.S. and NATO, they keep their military forces within their own borders and their immediate neighborhood? Is it because of human rights violations, as claimed to be occurring in Xinjiang, China, which in fact is prospering, while U.S. wars and sanctions on Syria, Yemen, and dozens of other countries are causing mass famine and misery?

The answer is that the Green New Deal will not work if China is building infrastructure, power plants and industries all over the developing sector with the Belt and Road program, while Russia is building both coal-fired plants and nuclear power plants in Africa. Russia and China are doing what Franklin Roosevelt intended to do after the warput an end to European colonial enforced backwardness once and for all with American System methods, Hamiltonian methods.

America itself has given up on the American System and has instead succumbed to the British System of free markets, free trade, deregulation, deindustrialization, and economic policy run not by elected governments but by private banks, which are cutting credit to the productive economy to save the planet.

Will they go to war to get their way?

Perhaps they believe Russia and China will back down and give up on development. Perhaps they think the developing countries of Africa, Ibero-America and Asia will also agree to be bought off, and so will remain backward.

They are wrong. The LaRouche Organization, the Schiller Institute, and the Committee for the Coincidence of Opposites know that unless the path to war and depopulation is rejected by the citizens and the nations of the world, and these nations come togetherincluding especially Russia, China and the U.S.to end the coronavirus pandemic with modern health systems in every country; to stop the famine with a mobilization of nations globally to double food production; to stop the war buildup and divert the military-industrial sector into high-technology energy, infrastructure and space exploration; and put the bloated gambling casino of Wall Street and the City of London through bankruptcy reorganization in a New Bretton Woodswithout all of this, the world and the population faces disintegration.

We are human, we are a cognitive species, which can create the future needed by mankind as a whole. Act like it.
EIR LEAD EDITORIAL FOR THURSDAY, MAY 27, 2021

The Coincidence of Opposites: Bringing the World to Its Senses, Before a Pandemic Brings It to Its Knees

May 26, 2021 (EIRNS)Though there are forces that clearly intend to prevent even President Joe Biden from meeting with President Vladimir Putin, using everything, including the bogus Belarus affair to do so, Russia intends to do its part to not play the provocation game. Meanwhile, the physical reality of the coronavirus pandemic and its implications, whether in Palestine, India, or Honduras, are not a game: That deadly reality, even for countries like the once-protected Vietnam, has forced the truth to the fore: Therefore, send not to know for whom the bell tolls, it tolls for thee. The bankruptcy of the United States policy on making vaccines available to the world in a timely fashion was luridly on display in the press conference addressed by the CDCs Dr. Rochelle Walensky and Bidens Covid coordinator Andy Slavitt, who, after blathering about 80 million vaccines distributed to the world by the end of June, was caught covering up for the fact that over 100 million vaccines are already produced and not about to be used, not counting the 67 million that the states already have, and are having problems finding people to take. The issue, however, is not whether to vaccinate either American children, or Indian physicians. The issue is: What are the hypotheses that must be the foundation for a world physical-economic development policy?

Only the philosophical method of mass organizing developed by Cardinal Nicholas of Cusa, in his 1440 De Docta Ignorantia, is adequate to the challenge faced by mankind today. One sub-chapter of LaRouches May 83 Argentina document is entitled:  Mad as a Malthusian Dogma. Truly, the trans-Atlantic thermonuclear war-fighting policies presently being considered, such as Prompt Global Strike, reflect a cult-like form of religious belief, not rigorous strategic thinking in the 21st century. Besides being a rejection of the 1983 SDI breakthrough by Reagan and LaRouche, preventive war and thermonuclear first strike is, together with the Great Reset, a pathetic front for the inevitable demise of the $2 quadrillions-plus bankrupt financial system. Neither scheme can work, except to exterminate all, or most of the human race. (Malthusianism also often has the ugly habit of destroying its proponents first.) But, though this new world order will fail under any circumstances, what will succeed?

From a physical-economic standpoint, the opportunity afforded by the merciless, Masque of the Red Death-like prompting of humanity to change its ways, by the coronavirus pandemic and its implications, has, for perhaps the first time since the successful LaRouche campaign for the SDI in 1983, brought mankind and its governments, face to face with self-development, or self-destruction. A world health platform, demanded by elected officials, medical personnel, clergy, military, and all persons interested in justice, whether for Palestine, the African continent, or the urban poor in nations all over the world, can overturn every axiom of geopolitics, can take exception to every rule of law, can reset the Great Reset, solely by forcing an insistence on the idea that the world needs more people, at higher standards of living, achieved even without and independent of the prior resolution of outmoded forms of conflict and division that have characterized the relationships among states up to now.

The deeper enemy we are facing, as pernicious as with the Dionysians of the Great Reset, is Kantian pessimism, seen, for example, in the cynical reflections of University of Washington Prof. Karen Levy: With COVID-19, thinking like a pathogen leads to an inevitable conclusion: Getting the vaccine out to everyone in the world as quickly as possible is not just an ethical imperative, but also a selfish one. This will, and should, inspire no one. The antidote to it can be found in the optimism of genius.

Such a construction of a durable world order, devoid of thermonuclear and population warfare, composed of free, sovereign, economically developed nations, is the task of the moment. In this 250th anniversary of Beethovens birth it is worth reflecting, that the genius of optimism about humanity that Beethoven expressed is the method by which national and international policy is madeas the 70-year creative life of Lyndon LaRouche and the 50-year record of his association attests.
Kremlin and White House Term Summit as Opportunity To Talk, without Great Expectations

May 26, 2021 (EIRNS)Kremlin press spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters in Moscow this morning that it would be also wrong to play down the importance of this meeting, even though is unlikely that just from the very first meeting, the parties will find common ground on the issues causing deep divisions, TASS reported. Peskov specified that the important thing is that the Presidents will have a chance to exchange views and compare their positions on issues of mutual interest, which are important for the entire world. Those include strategic stability and arms control issues.

Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had similarly told reporters yesterday that the frank but respectful discussions held to prepare the summit between himself and Secretary of State Tony Blinken, and between the two top national security officials, Nikolai Patrushev and Jake Sullivan, allows us to hope that establishing a serious and concrete dialogue on practical, not feigned, problems, common threats and risks will enable us to count (if both sides make efforts) on the removal of certain irritants. This will be neither quick nor easy, he cautioned. There are serious and deep differences between the two nations on international and bilateral matters.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psakis remarks at the May 25 press briefing were similar in tone. She said the Administration expects that a fair amount of time in the Biden-Putin summit will be spent discussing strategic stability, where the arms control agenda goes following the extension of New START, and that Biden will raise the question of Ukraine and Belarus. Washington expects difficult conversations, but views the talks as an opportunity to move ... toward a more stable and predictable relationship with Russia, she said. She also reported that since it is still three weeks away, there could be a range of issues that could be discussed by the two Presidents.

Expect British imperial interests over the next three weeks to seek to create issues which could derail the summit. The U.S. press corps was already hammering against the very idea of holding the summit, asking Psaki such loaded questions as what message does it send to the United States adversaries that Biden would hold a summit with President Putin?

But as Russian Sen. Vladimir Dzhabarov, First Deputy Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Federation Council (the upper house of the Federal Assembly) told TASS on May 25: The meeting is important not only for Russia and the United States but also for the entire world. The world is braced for it. It may not be enough to resolve all the problems but it will pave the way for the improvement of our relations.

Where in Geneva the summit will take place is still being worked out, Peskov told media.
Russia-China Strategic Coordination Exemplifies Foreign Relations of the Future

May 26, 2021 (EIRNS)While NATO-serving pundits merrily scribble proposals for how to turn China and Russia against each other to benefit their geopolitical order (case in point: the German Marshall Funds Isaac Stone Fish silly piece in todays Washington Post), Russian and Chinese officials hold up the growing strength of their relationship as an example for others that nations relating to each other not on the basis of power, but on mutual benefit, forms the strongest bonds.

Senior Chinese diplomat and CPC official Yang Jiechi arrived in Moscow on May 24, to co-chair the 16th round of Russian-Chinese consultations on strategic stability yesterday with Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev. While in Moscow, he spoke by phone with President Putin, delivering and receiving messages between President Xi Jinping and Putin, and touching upon several pressing issues on the international agenda, the Kremlin reported.

Yang described Russian-Chinese relations to Putin as the perfect example of a new type of mutually beneficial international relationship, which helps overcome global challenges, calling the momentum and positive energy of the Chinese-Russian comprehensive strategic partnership key for global stability amid worldwide changes, the Chinese Foreign Ministry read-out on the call emphasized, TASS reports.

Chinese semi-official daily Global Times took up this theme in its editorial today, China-Russia Ties Assure Global Strategic Balance. The daily recommended the West stop speculating about what tool with special effects it can devise to split apart the two nations. The efforts of the U.S. and its allies to suppress both nations have brought them closer together, and the heavier the pressure, the more steadfast the support from the other country will be. More than this, however, is involved, the editors caution.

The China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era is way much stronger than such temporary geopolitical dynamics. It has transformed into the cornerstone of both countries national strategies after 20 years of continuous accumulation and consolidation.... The strategic coordination between the two countries has penetrated into all aspects of international politics.

Unlike Western alliances held together by waning U.S. power, the greatest value of China-Russia relations is equality and mutual benefit. Being partners but not pursuing alignment will create not only flexibility, but also resilience. Such values and principles will prove to be more vital than the hegemonic alliance system....

The comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination between China and Russia for a new era not only belongs to the two countries, but also all human beings. The U.S. aggressive alliances with its main allies are out of step with the 21st-century Zeitgeist. And they need to reflect on themselves, Global Times concludes.
Forget Geopolitics, Save Lives with Vaccines, Ibero-American Experts Tell Atlantic Council

May 26, 2021 (EIRNS)On May 24, the Atlantic Council sponsored a webinar The Race to Vaccinate: Chinese Vaccines in Latin America and the Caribbean, including Guyanas Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony as its special guest, and a panel of three commentators including former Chilean Ambassador to China Jorge Heine, epidemiologist Dr. Jennifer Bouey of the RAND Corporation, and Ernesto Londono, the New York Times correspondent in Brazil. Although the Atlantic Council has eagerly participated in the recent media and think tank rug-chewing about Chinas vaccines being just a cynical political maneuver to increase its influence In Latin America and the Caribbean, moderator Pepe Zhang had to handle the discussion in an even-handed wayunable to directly challenge the reality that Chinas vaccines are savings lives in the region, while the U.S. is absent.

That point was driven home in spades in response to one of Zhangs carefully-constructed questions, about whether Chinas vaccine diplomacy represents a new avenue for engagement in the region. Ambassador Heine quickly dispensed with the narrative coming from Western media and Washington think tanks that China is using its vaccines for political leverage and domination, stating that the issue here is timing. Chinese vaccines come now to Latin America whereas the U.S. and European countries are hoarding and talking about 2022 or 2023. Thats no good, he said, describing as absurd the discussion in Western media comparing the efficacy of the Pfizer vaccine to Chinas Sinopharm, whose efficacy is reportedly 70%. This is rich country club talk, he pronounced. The perception of Chinese vaccines in the region is very high, Heine insisted. Latin America is ground zero for COVID cases and deaths, and how the crisis is handled will be remembered for a very long time, he warned. So, the U.S. should get going, and start providing vaccines fast.

While initially offering a factual report on the situation in Guyana and the surrounding region, Dr. Anthony made the same point. China had donated large quantities of PPE and lab equipment as well as 20,000 doses of Sinopharm vaccine. Anglo-American media lie that China never donates anything. India donated 800,000 doses. USAID offered a grant, but no vaccines. The situation in the region is now critical, he warned, with a surge in cases and deaths in Jamaica, Barbados and Trinidad & Tobago. Guyana and the region have also been driven into deep economic crises. The bottom line, he said, is that there arent enough vaccines. Thats the case across the Caribbean, he underscored, where vaccination rates are extremely low. He pointed out that its easier to store Sinopharm vaccines because they dont require the same cold-chain capacity as Pfizer. President Biden has donated 4,000 doses of AstraZeneca vaccines to Mexico, and Canada and is offering Southeast Asia more, but, Dr. Anthony declared, were in the U.S.s backyard, and with more vaccines, we can change the situation.

Even the New York Times correspondent Ernesto Londono observed that while the U.S. warns that dealing with China comes at a price, the reality is that China responded to many countries in their hour of need ... they showed up first and scaled a victory, while the U.S. was hoarding vaccines. And when asked whether there were geopolitical competition between China and the U.S. in the region, the RAND Corporations Dr. Jennifer Bouey, a Chinese-American epidemiologist who has extensive experience working in China, responded that the current situation could offer an opportunity for the U.S. and China to work together, as they had done in the past, collaborating on SARS, avian flu, and Ebola to build a public good. So, she said, the precedent is there. In concluding, Zhang asked each participant to express a final message, to which Heine said: Get U.S. vaccines to Latin America ASAP; Londono, in the face of enormous loss, help must come soon; Anthony: get the vaccines in ASAP. Dr. Bouey: U.S., Chinese and Latin American scientists can work together in resolving the crisis.
Nonkululeko Kunene Adumentey was born in the Kingdom of Eswatini, a landlocked African nation that the world once knew as Swaziland.

A wife and mother of two young children, Adumentey calls her late father, Themba Micah Kunene, her hero.

He inspired Adumenteys passion for children and her will to celebrate children for their strength, voices, and diversity.

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My father was a man of humble beginnings who worked hard to provide for eight children, stated Adumentey, adding that it was his unconditional love, wisdom, and work ethic that inspired the core of her principles and life mottos.

He also inspired her to appreciate the various skin tones found in Africans throughout the world.

That inspiration has led to Adumenteys new childrens book, I Celebrate My Skin, a 38-page hardcover book that teaches chidren about the beauty of different skin colors.

It also teaches children why diversity matters.

We must teach young people to have a true appreciation for themselves and their skin color, Adumentey demanded.

People of color are introduced to negative images of men and women of color, which affects how they perceive themselves, she stated.

Adumentey, whose name means Freedom, left Africa for Canada at the age of 16. She eventually migrated to the United States, where she earned a masters degree in Public Health at St. Louis University.

After moving to Chicago, Adumentey earned a second masters degree in Geographic Information Systems at Chicago State University.

She said she had witnessed much growing up, including how the lack of diversity and understanding of race has harmed children.

So, my book is about celebrating kids and embracing who they are, Adumentey said. I wanted to inspire children from my village that they can do so much more. We have to love each other and embrace who we are.

Known by her friends and loved ones as Nonku, Adumentey said she enjoys one of her fathers favorite mottos: umtsentse uhlaba usamila, which counts as a saying about a strong grass that gets deeply rooted during its early stages of development.

The essence of this saying embodies the core of early intervention and teaching young minds early so that they grow up strong and informed about the world, she said.

Thats why I wrote the book. To inspire young ones toward a greater future.

The book provides positive images and anecdotes about the various skin tones found throughout the diaspora and teaches lessons on the importance of diversity.

One critic at amazon.com noted that the book is a beautiful representation of all of the different skin colors in the world. It teaches kids that no matter what color your skin is, we are all the same.

Another noted that the book offers a simple but powerful message about the beauty of diversity. The text flows naturally, and the vibrant, charming illustrations engage little ones and adults alike. This would be an excellent addition to any childrens library.

Adumentey said, I Celebrate My Skin is the first in a trilogy of books that she is writing to encourage children and others about the importance of diversity.

She underscores that life was not easy growing up.

I grew up in a very small village, and I faced a lot of childhood trauma, some sexual abuse, and other things, Adumentey stated.

I could not celebrate who I was, I always felt like I was not fully myself, but I covered everything up, and I was always okay.

She continued:

When I was 16, I left home alone to go finish high school in Canada. From that point, I traveled to the United States, got a scholarship, and now Im a mom of two, and life is different. I rediscovered myself, and I realized that my voice matters. I want my children to get this message at an early age, and thats where my book came into the mix.

I Celebrate My Skin can be purchased at www.amazon.com/Celebrate-Skin-Nonku-Kunene-Adumetey/dp/1735738212.
Chicago Mayor Says She Will Give One-On-One Interviews Only to Journalists of Color

This proposal will significantly overhaul how the Chicago Police Departments leadership and members are overseen, managed & held accountable when necessary. Creating a civilian commission like this one has long been a goal of mine. https://t.co/WIZrjzy85V  Mayor Lori Lightfoot (@chicagosmayor) May 24, 2021

I ran to break up the status quo that was failing so many. That isnt just in City Hall. Its a shame that in 2021, the City Hall press corps is overwhelmingly White in a city where more than half of the city identifies as Black, Latino, AAPI or Native American.  Mayor Lori Lightfoot (@chicagosmayor) May 19, 2021

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot declared that she successfully ran for office two years ago to break up the status quo she said was failing so many.

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On the second anniversary of her historic landslide victory in an election runoff when she became the first Black woman and first openly gay person to hold the office in the Windy City, Mayor Lightfoot announced she would only do one-on-one interviews with journalists of color.

Its a shame that in 2021, the City Hall press corps is overwhelmingly White in a city where more than half of the city identifies as Black, Latino, AAPI, or Native American, Lightfoot explained on Twitter.

Diversity and inclusion are imperative across all institutions, including media. To progress, we must change.

After a sweeping victory in which she garnered more than 74 percent of the vote to defeat Toni Preckwinkle and replace Rahm Emanuel, Lightfoot exhorted city residents that we can and will finally put the interests of all of our people ahead of the interests of a powerful few.

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Having never previously held elected office, Mayor Lightfoot once headed Chicagos police board and its police accountability task force that Emanuel established after the 2014 murder of Laquan McDonald.

McDonald, who was Black, was fatally shot by Jason Van Dyke, a White police officer.

Van Dyke, the first Chicago officer in more than 50 years to be convicted of murder in an on-duty shooting, shot McDonald 16 times.

In 2018, a judge sentenced Van Dyke to 6 years on nine months in prison.

Mayor Lightfoot has made gun violence a priority, and she noted the importance of speaking to journalists of color.

Her decision has sparked outrage in White media circles, but others applauded Mayor Lightfoot.

With this outrage, yall are implying that Black and Brown journalists arent capable of asking the hard questions, the Chicago-based Black-owned media platform, The TRiiBE, tweeted.

Mayor Lightfoot drew attention to a global reckoning on racism since the killing of George Floyd. She remarked that many of the media institutions in Chicago have caught on and truly have not embraced this moment.

The press corps is the filter through which much of what we do in government is dissected and explained to the public, the mayor wrote in a memo.

And yet, despite the many talents and skills of our reporting corps, I fear this arm of our democratic system is on life support. The Chicago media leadership must evolve with the times to be a true reflection of the vibrant, vast diversity of our city.

The mayor continued with a Twitter post.

We must be intentional about doing better. I believed that when running for office. I stand on this belief now. Its time for the newsrooms to do better and build teams that reflect the make-up of our city.
Domestic Violence Groups Praise Govs Budget, But Ask for More Funding

Domestic violence (DV) advocates in California are praising Gov. Gavin Newsom for allocating $100 million in the 2021-22 budget May revision to support crime victims. But they say the money is not enough to meet new DV-specific demands brought on, in part, by the COVID-19 crisis.

Victim services providers, including DV shelters and rape crisis centers, faced an influx of survivors seeking services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Over the past few years, theyve also received reduced funding from the federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), with continued cuts expected in the future.

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The funding Advocacy organizations ValorUS (formerly the California Coalition Against Sexual Assault) and the California Partnership to End Domestic Violence (CPEDV) have released a statement commending Newsom for the funding, without which, they say, services providers would have faced significant cuts beginning in fiscal year (FY) 2022-2023. However, they are also calling on Newsom to expand the funding to include $315 million for services that support victims and $15 million in ongoing prevention funding for sexual and domestic violence.

Victim services funding goes toward essential services for victims of violent crime, including legal assistance, housing and homelessness responses, child abuse programs and programs dedicated to traditionally underserved communities. There has been an increased demand for these services since the pandemic began, with more than three in five DV organizations globally reporting an increase in demand for services in a March 2021 report released by the NO MORE foundation, a national DV resource center.

San Francisco-based Community United Against Violence (CUAV) faced an increased demand for services while working under social-distancing restrictions during the past year. CUAV provides direct services, including advocacy-based counseling, direct cash assistance and temporary housing for survivors in emergency situations. CUAV primarily serves LGBTQ+ people of color who are survivors of intimate partner violence, hate violence and police violence. The nonprofit also supports community organizing in the Bay Area, advocating for transformative justice and alternatives to policing.

Dominique Cowling, Healing Justice Program Manager at CUAV, says the proposed $315 million in funding would help expand the services that CUAV is able to provide.

It would be incredibly helpful for providing more of the domestic-violence specific work and education that we do, not only with our survivors but in our community trainings, too, she said.

When we go out and do outreach for our partner agencies, we can really have more staff members that are providing that education, Cowling continued. I can also imagine really being able to support folks that are in crisis, and that are experiencing housing [and] financial instability. There are so many things that would be really helpful for this additional funding.

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The Los Angeles-based Jenesse Center offers career services along with housing assistance, which Donna Derden, Chief operating Officer, says is necessary for a holistic approach to victim services that ensures long term stability for crime survivors.

We do all of the workforce development to guarantee long term success. We dont want them to have to return to the shelter because they ran out of money, they didnt know how to pay their rent on time, they didnt know how to do whatever, and they went back to the abuser. And, then, a year later, theyre coming back to us for more help. Addressing all those issues ensures long term stability and success for the clients, says Derden.

The specific amounts in the funding requests are based off previous state spending.

For the $315 million the groups are requesting for victims services funding, the Governors Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) had previously projected that amount as the number needed to provide stability over three years. According to John Finley, Policy Manager at ValorUS, the $15 million prevention funding requested from the governor is based on the states previous investments in that area.

California had previously allocated $10 million in one-time DV-related funding in fiscal year 2018, and $5 million in fiscal year 2019.

According to Finley, the amount proposed by ValorUS and CPEDV would stave off cuts until fiscal year 25-26. With just the $100 million proposed, Cal OES projects that victim services providers would face funding cuts starting in fiscal years 2023 or 2024.

If the projected victim services funding cuts take effect, then vital services and agencies for people affected by a wide array of crimes  including domestic and sexual abuse, child abuse and hate crimes  would face cuts.

This would disproportionately affect communities of color and low-income communities. According to a 2017 survey the Alliance for Safety and Justice conducted, people of color are 15 % more likely to become victims of crime.

Finley also points out that the proposal for increased victim services funding also comes at a time when California is estimating that it has a $75.7 billion dollar surplus, which Newsom announced alongside his proposed expansion of the Golden State Stimulus, part of the California Comeback Plan.

Seeing that decline [in funding] even while we have an enormous state surplus, that is a bit concerning. I would go so far as to say, if we werent able to intervene significantly to any cuts to victim services, it would be totally indefensible for us to have this much money and then be cutting the services we provide to victims of violent crime, said Finley.
Dr. Kevin Williams Issues Caution to African Americans About Rare Heart Disease

It was less than four years ago that Pfizer Rare Disease teamed with the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) to assess the awareness of sickle cell disease, the challenges of living with it, and the importance of clinical trial participation.

The partnership between the pharmaceutical giant and the NNPA, which represents the Black Press of America, resulted in conducting polls and helping researchers succeed in developing potential new treatments.

With the most recent collaboration between Pfizer Rare Disease and the Black Press, the organizations embarked on a mission to educate and raise awareness of transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy  or ATTR-CM.

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ATTR-CM is a rare, life-threatening, underrecognized, and underdiagnosed type of amyloidosis that affects the heart and it is associated with heart failure, Dr. Kevin Williams, Pfizer Rare Disease chief medical officer, told the NNPA in a live interview.

The disease disproportionately affects African Americans, Dr. Williams maintained.

He said underdiagnosed genetic mutation in African Americans carries an increased risk for heart failure.

A genetic variant called V122I could lead to a higher risk of heredity transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy, which is caused by a buildup of protein in the heart, Dr. Williams continued.

A concern about ATTR-CM is that it remains challenging to diagnose.

Its vital that patients act as their best advocates, Dr. Williams decided.

ATTR-CM could be building for years before doctors notice the obvious signs.

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Pointing out that detailed information about ATTR-CM could be found on the website, yourheartsmessage.com, Dr. Williams noted what happens to cause the disease.

He said the liver produces transthyretin, a transport protein carrying the hormone thyroxine and vitamin A through the bloodstream.

When an individual has ATTR-CM because of aging or an inherited genetic variant, the protein becomes unstable and misfolds.

When the disease is caused by aging, its called wild-type. When its an inherited genetic variant, its hereditary.

Over time, the misfolds proteins join and build up in the body, including in the heart, which causes the muscle to stiffen. That leads to heart failure, Dr. Williams noted.

While the wild-type ATTR-CM is associated with aging, the hereditary form is caused by a change in a gene.

It is passed down from a relative.

However, Dr. Williams cautioned that more than 120 known mutations cause hereditary ATTR-CM, with the most common mutation in America being V122I.

That mutation almost exclusively affects African Americans, Dr. Williams said.

About 3-to-4-percent of the African American population are thought to be carriers of the mutation, Dr. Williams stated.

We know Black people experience higher rates of heart disease than anyone in the United States, he continued.

It is really important for Black people who are experiencing any unresolved symptoms related to heart disease or those who have a family history or are diagnosed with any heart disease to talk with their doctors. Ask them about ATTR-CM because not all physicians have a full understanding of this disease.

Click here to view the full NNPA interview with Dr. Williams.
This illustration, updated as of December 2020, depicts NASAs Europa Clipper spacecraft. The mission, targeting a 2024 launch, will investigate whether Jupiters moon Europa and its internal ocean have conditions suitable for life. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

New research and computer modeling show that volcanic activity may have occurred on the seafloor of Jupiter's moon Europa in the recent past - and may still be happening.

NASA's upcoming Europa Clipper mission, targeting a 2024 launch, will swoop close to the icy moon and collect measurements that may shed light on the recent findings.

Scientists have strong evidence that Europa harbors an enormous ocean between its icy crust and rocky interior. The new work shows how the moon may have enough internal heat to partially melt this rocky layer, a process that could feed volcanoes on the ocean floor. The recent 3D modeling of how this internal heat is produced and transferred is the most detailed and thorough examination yet of the effect this interior heating has on the moon.

The key to Europa's rocky mantle being hot enough to melt lies with the massive gravitational pull Jupiter has on its moons. As Europa revolves around the gas giant, the icy moon's interior flexes. The flexing forces energy into the moon's interior, which then seeps out as heat (think of how repeatedly bending a paperclip generates heat). The more the moon's interior flexes, the more heat is generated.

The research, published recently in Geophysical Research Letters, models in detail how Europa's rocky part may flex and heat under the pull of Jupiter's gravity. It shows where heat dissipates and how it melts that rocky mantle, increasing the likelihood of volcanoes on the seafloor.

Underwater volcanoes, if present, could power hydrothermal systems like those that fuel life at the bottom of Earth's oceans. On Earth, when seawater comes into contact with hot magma, the interaction results in chemical energy. And it is chemical energy from these hydrothermal systems, rather than from sunlight, that helps support life deep in our own oceans. Volcanic activity on Europa's seafloor would be one way to support a potential habitable environment in that moon's ocean.

"Our findings provide additional evidence that Europa's subsurface ocean may be an environment suitable for the emergence of life," Behounkova said. "Europa is one of the rare planetary bodies that might have maintained volcanic activity over billions of years, and possibly the only one beyond Earth that has large water reservoirs and a long-lived source of energy."

Direct Observations

NASA scientists will have the opportunity to put the new predictions to the test when Europa Clipper reaches its target in 2030. The spacecraft will orbit Jupiter and perform dozens of close flybys of Europa to map the moon and investigate its composition. Among the science data it collects, the spacecraft will survey the surface in detail and sample the moon's thin atmosphere.

The surface and atmosphere observations will give scientists a chance to learn more about the moon's interior ocean if the water percolates up through the icy crust. Scientists believe the exchange of material between the ocean and the crust would leave traces of seawater on the surface. They also believe the exchange may emit gas, and possibly even plumes of water vapor, with ejected particles that could contain materials coming from the seafloor.

As Europa Clipper measures the moon's gravity and magnetic field, anomalies in those areas, especially toward the poles, could help confirm the volcanic activity predicted by the new research.

"The prospect for a hot, rocky interior and volcanoes on Europa's seafloor increases the chance that Europa's ocean could be a habitable environment," said Europa Clipper Project Scientist Robert Pappalardo of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. "We may be able to test this with Europa Clipper's planned gravity and compositional measurements, which is an exciting prospect."

More About the Mission

Missions such as Europa Clipper help contribute to the field of astrobiology, the interdisciplinary research on the variables and conditions of distant worlds that could harbor life as we know it. While Europa Clipper is not a life-detection mission, it will conduct detailed reconnaissance of Europa and investigate whether the icy moon, with its subsurface ocean, has the capability to support life. Understanding Europa's habitability will help scientists better understand how life developed on Earth and the potential for finding life beyond our planet.

Managed by Caltech in Pasadena, California, JPL leads the development of the Europa Clipper mission in partnership with the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab (APL) in Maryland for the agency's Science Mission Directorate in Washington. The Planetary Missions Program Office at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, executes program management of the Europa Clipper mission.

More information about Europa and Europa Clipper can be found here:

https://europa.nasa.gov

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Focusing on Financial Health: Chart the Path Toward Your Next Milestone



When was the last time you looked at your bank account balance? According to a recent study, over 60 percent of Americans check their balance at least once a week. This is a habit, if practiced the right way, can you put on the path to achieving your financial goals.

Whether youre looking to becoming financially independent, planning for a long awaited vacation, or saving for a down payment to buy your first home, we want you to be aware of some of the tools and skills right now to help make your financial journey as smooth as possible.

But lets talk about the basics first. Managing your money can be overwhelming but it doesnt need to be. Understanding things like budgeting, saving, paying your bills, and even building your credit score are skills that can help you at any stage of your life. Even in these difficult times with the pandemic when so many of us are facing greater uncertainty around our finances and job security, it is these types of moments where understanding core financial skills can be the difference maker.

The past year has impacted families, friends, colleagues and our community. Since the start of the pandemic, 44% of Black Americans have said that either they or someone in their family has experienced a job or wage loss due to COVID. In these situations, especially, it is critical to know how to manage your finances to stay or get back on track.

If youre unsure of where to begin, how to start making progress, or simply looking to refresh your knowledge, consider the following as you chart a successful path forward and take control of your financial future.

Advice and Tools

Our financial goals hub is a great place to start. Start by picking a goal  save, budget, or build credit  and explore advice, offerings and tools that more simply allow you to control your financial future. Our Grow Your Savings page, for example, offers an interactive calculator that maps out a timeline to reach savings goals and highlights how the Autosave tool can help you manage a regular savings schedule to stay on track and meet your goals. Other resources are also available, such as budget worksheets to monitor and track monthly spending, guidance on using the Credit Journey tool to build and protect credit, as well as background on low-cost checking accounts designed to provide access for anyone who has had trouble getting or keeping an account in the past.

Reserved Capital for Business Owners

Education, reliable support and resources are fundamental first steps to financial literacy, but equal access to capital is just as critical. With 41% of Black-owned businesses shuttering since this time last year, COVID-19 has only worsened the disparities and inequities that demand an intentional reprioritization of capital. Through our Entrepreneurs of Color Fund, were working to provide more access to capital to future entrepreneurs, existing business owners and communities who have historically and unfairly struggled to secure it. JPMorgan Chase also recently announced it is setting aside funds specifically for Black and Latinx business owners  stop into your local branch and talk with a Chase For Business representative to see if you qualify.

Equitable Home Lending

Home equity is also a major contributor to families wealth, making it imperative that we increase property ownership among Black communities. One way we hope to do this is through our Chase DreaMaker mortgage, which makes applying for your first mortgage or refinancing a current one more attainable with a smaller down payment, and by offering reduced mortgage insurance, more flexibility around your credit score, potential assistance grants and homebuyer education courses.

Visit our Community Center in the Crenshaw District

Just a few weeks ago we officially opened our newly re-designed Community Center Branch in the Crenshaw District, which provides financial health workshops, skills training, small business pop-ups and more. Unlike traditional branches, this branch has been designed specifically for the South Los Angeles community and with the intent to close gaps in access to financial education, resources and access to capital for reaching milestones like buying a house, starting a small business or paying for education.

And you may have also seen that weve hired a community manager based in our Crenshaw Community Center. As community manager for Los Angeles, Jordan King will work with the community and small businesses to increase awareness of available resources, and help connect you with financial health tools, products and services. Look for more free interactive programs on topics such as budget building, home buying tips, interview and job search skills, how to fund a small business, and others coming soon.

No matter where you are financially, budgeting and saving are two key habits that can help all of us bounce back from lifes unexpected moments or keep on track to ensure you meet your goals. That is why we are here to help everyone have open conversations about what it means to become financially healthy and provide support, tools and advice to get there. Financial health is a journey, and we can help you think about a plan for now and the future.

If you are able, please stop by our Crenshaw Community Center at 4401 Crenshaw Boulevard to learn more about the resources available.

Otherwise, for more resources, information and access to tools that can help you achieve your financial goals and milestones, visit chase.com/personal/financial-goals

Sponsored content from JPMorgan Chase & Co
In The Heights  A Dynamic Explosion Of Sights And Sound

Lin-Manuel Miranda is a genius and if he had not received a single award, it would not have mattered. A genius is a genius.

In this film adaption of his Tony Award-winning play IN THE HEIGHTS https://www.intheheights-movie.com/ the hip-hop musical created by Lin-Manuel Miranda (https://www.linmanuel.com/project/in-the-heights) opens with title song which builds into a percussion beat as Dominican American Usnavi (Anthony Ramos) slides into a powerfully smooth freestyle rapping while the camera moves through uptown Manhattan (El Barrio) the predominantly Dominican neighborhood of Washing-ton Heights.

A full ten minutes of this engaging scene provides us with an understanding of place and then it erupts into an ebullient production number with dancers of all ages, shapes and sizes fanning out all over an entire city block. Through his eyes, we see and hear the thoughts of first-generation immigrants from Puerto Rico, Cuba, and the D.R. told over a few hot summer days in el barrio. Directed by Jon M. Chu ( Crazy Rich Asians ).

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Chu delivers a joyous, upbeat, and inspirational movie filled with a rainbow of Latinos playing Latinos, peppered with references to their shared culture, and the Caribbean culture  giving us a peek into the food, the fashion, and above all, the music.

In the Heights play was workshopped in 2005, was staged Off Broadway (2007), then moved to Broadway in 2008. Thats when Miranda stepped into the history books.

The movie version of In the Heights was shot on the streets of Washington Heights. Authentic from A to Z, the story focuses on the story told by Dominican American Usnavi (Anthony Ramos), and in his memory, his Washington Heights is clean, neat, and almost Disneyesque. No shade: its not at all but its a movie so go with it, you wont be unhappy.

Through the power of movie magic, we still get the feel of this section with 2D store-fronts providing a view of the George Washington Bridge, onstage, of course.

Usnavi sits on the beach and tells the story in the past tense to a group of interested kids.

Chu treats the material like a modern fairy tale and he keeps the film moving fast  with the first song Lights up on Washington Heights, up at the break of day setting the tone.

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As Usnavi opens his bodega  breaking the fourth wall, talking to the camera as the people that shape his world pour into his store. Returning from her role on Broadway as Abuela Claudia is Olga Merediz, a Tony nominee from the original Broadway cast; cousin Sonny (Gregory Diaz IV); local car service owner Kevin Rosario (Jimmy Smits); college girl Nina (Leslie Grace) and ex-boyfriend Benny (Corey Hawkins), who works at her dads dispatch; and the object of Usnavis crush, aspiring fashionista Vanessa (Melissa Barrera). Most purchase lottery tickets, and before long, Usnavi learns that hes sold a winner, giving the opening to the shows popular song 96,000, in which the characters dream about what theyd do with that kind of money.

Usnavi and Vanessas relationship in New York, complicated, since both want to leave the Heights: She paints nails at a salon but aspires to a life, downtown becoming a fashion designer, and he wants to return to the Dominican Republic to rebuild his fathers bar. Using a lively local nightclub  a display of sexy, Latino-infused courtship misunderstandings are quickly smoothed out and then - the citywide blackout.

In the Heights highlights the important conflicts that many immigrants face when re-locating, stuck between living the American dream and the strong desire to go back to their homeland, rich, successful, and wise.

It also makes sage points that family isnt always about blood relatives.

In this spirited community, life goes on. Some people come, and others go: Nina drops out of Stanford to find herself, living with her people, whereas beauty shop owner Daniela (Daphne Rubin-Vega) is forced out by gentrification and unreasonable and unfair rent hikes.

Gentrification is an ugly word that describes an even uglier fact.

There is no missing the fact, that his film  acknowledges how hard immigrants must work for their place in this country. There is also, no missing the fact that the film is packed with things that speak to the culture, refusing to become a homogenized people.

Chu , not Latino, does understand the themes of assimilation.

Miranda appears as the piragua guy, making money with his shaved ice cart which blends, perfectly, with the images that make the neighborhood: the street art, the old men on their stoops, the kids splashing in the fountain of open fire hydrants. Things that say; home to so many of us.

There is a joy watching Puerto Ricans and Dominicans and living in one of the hardest cities in America. There is also inspiration and a life lesson to be learned. They carved out their place in Washington Heights and filled it with life, love, song, and hope.

http://www.intheheights-movie.com/

#InTheHeightsMovie

 Facebook: @intheheightsmovie

 Instagram: @intheheightsmovie

 Twitter: @intheheights
May 25, 2021, marks one year since the murder of George Floyd by Minnesota police officer Derek Chauvin. The tragic and horrific event underscored the prevalence of systemic racism in law enforcement agencies nationwide, and set in motion a movement to stand against all forms of racism and violence in the name of Black lives. In the midst of an unprecedented pandemic where intimate physical interaction created the risk of contracting COVID-19, protesters called for justice, confronting the hard reality that incidents of police brutality, which have disproportionately resulted in the injuries and deaths of people of color, persisted across the nation.

A year later, much work has been done at the local and Federal levels to reimagine public safety and more strategically reinvest in community engagement and safety. To mark this occasion, the Los Angeles City Council unanimously voted to support H.R. 1280 (Bass)  the George Floyd Justice In Policing Act of 2021.

It has been one year, to the day, since George Floyd was murdered at the hands of a Minnesota police officer while his fellow officers stood by. A year later, although our friends and neighbors no longer convene on the streets to collectively voice our discontent, we now convene around the halls of government, ready to support new policy that meaningfully, strategically and pointedly dismantles systemic racism, said Councilmember Mark Ridley-Thomas, who co-introduced the resolution. As a City, we must continue to raise our voice in support of efforts to end the senseless violence toward people of color and, in particular, African Americans, at the hands of law enforcement. The Citys support for H.R. 1280the George Floyd Justice In Policing Act of 2021is an opportunity to do just that. And, I urge Congress to act and pass this legislation. It simply cannot wait. 

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Today is a day that will forever be etched into the fabric of world history as the day George Floyds life was stolen from him, sparking an outrage that spread far and wide across the globe in the name of justice, accountability and police reform, said Councilman Curren Price, who co-authored the resolution. In order for real change to occur, we must gather our collective voices together and find answers. The first of many steps we are taking in Los Angeles is through the George Floyd Justice In Policing Act, which will offer a solid solution to policing to relieve some of the devastation felt in communities of color.

Georges Floyds life was stolen one year ago and his murder catalyzed a national movement demanding transparency and accountability for police officers, said Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson. California is recovering from the pandemic and will not return to the status quo. We continue to work on local solutions while waiting for the George Floyd Justice In Policing Act to be signed into law.

The George Floyd Justice In Policing Act of 2021, introduced by Representative Karen Bass, aims to address a wide range of policies and issues regarding policing practices and law enforcement accountability, including increasing accountability for law enforcement misconduct, restricting the use of certain policing practices (such as no-knock warrants, chokeholds, and carotid holds), enhancing transparency and data collection, and establishing best practices and training requirements.

I want to thank Councilman Mark Ridley-Thomas and the Los Angeles City Council for supporting this important piece of legislation. Many of my friends on the Council remember the pain of not getting national reforms enacted after Rodney King was beaten thirty years ago. I hope that acting this time on the heels of the torturous murder of George Floyd, we can enact real, substantive change to our policing system. Thank you again for acting in support of this important piece of legislation, said Rep. Karen Bass, author of HR 1280  the George Floyd Justice In Policing Act of 2021.
Love Peace and Happiness Hosts Annual Living Word Conference 2021

Bishop Leon and Dr. Jacqueline Martin and the members of Love, Peace, and Happiness Family Christian Fellowship will present the Annual Living Word Conference 2021 convening Thursday, June 3, through Sunday, June 6, in their edifice located at 4951 South Figueroa St. in Los Angeles.

The theme is Where Do We Go From Here. The Institute Hour will be held each evening from 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. Evening worship services will begin at 7 p.m.

Conference speakers will be Pastor Isaac Thompson of Love, Peace and Happiness Church on Thursday night and Dr. Zebedee Jackson of New Jerusalem Christian Fellowship on Friday night. The conference will conclude on Sunday morning with Pastor Max Viana of Ark of Salvation Church and Pastor Lonnie Hogan of Westwood Cathedral of Word & Worship in Toledo, Ohio as the guest preachers.

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Sunday morning will also be a time of consecration and elevation. You dont want to miss this powerful gathering. Local Pastors will also be joining us for this awesome occasion, said Bishop Martin. Come and be blessed by the powerful teaching from dynamic men and women of God.

For information, call (800) 757-6552 or visit lphfamily.org.
Master of None Presents: Moments of Love  Season Is All About Naomi Ackie

Netflix made the wise decision, five years ago, to give actor/writer/producer, and now director, Aziz Ansari, and Alan Yang, the green light to create the quirky comedy Master of None.

It was 2015 and from year one, it was one of the streaming platforms successes and demonstrated inclusion and diversity  correctly. A preview, if you will, of how storytelling in the future, from traditional broadcasting and the cable should be presenting.

Master of None is Devs (Ansari) story, a struggling actor, and his love affair with New York City. The series connected with an audience immediately and in one of the first episodes, they weaved touching flashbacks of Devs father (played by Ansaris own) and the father (Clem Cheung) of his friend Brian (Kelvin Yu) who shared their immigration stories. Keeping the theme of being other in America, the series explored the consistent misrepresentation and the humiliation of stereotypes in Indians on TV. Devi fell in love in the middle of the series and later smashed that relationship. In season 2, he went to Italy, on a very Eat. Pray. Love journey where he nursed a broken heart and met another woman who would eventually break it again.

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But what made Season 2 unique was the episode Thanksgivings which propelled co-star Lena Waithe into the spotlight where she won an Emmy for co-writing the script with Ansari. On the surface, the episode looks simple, almost unremarkable. Telling the story through a series of fast-paced flashbacks, Denise (Lena Waithe) begins the arduous process of coming out, as a lesbian to her mother (Angela Bassett), and stepping into her truth.

Now in season three of Master of None (Master of None Presents: Moments of Love) pushes into Denises life, now successful and living in an upstate home where she moved with her wife, Alicia (Naomi Ackie). Actress Ackie owns this seasonutterly. Directed by Ansari this is a very different season, on film, he chooses long takes choosing, often, to keep the camera in one position, with the actors walking into the frame. Its unsetting but it does demand that you look, closely, at a Black queer couple in all their complexities.

The stylistic gambit grows tiresome and it feels lazy and indulged. The choice of not moving the camera, I assume, is to mimic the feeling of being that proverbial fly in the room, able to experience someones most intimate moments, but the cinematic result is a boring series.

Now  to the acting  Naomi Ackie owns the show. Ill go further, Ackie owns every frame she is in. She is also

an executive producer on this season.

Episodes 1-3 are like watching paint dry but episode four, which focuses on Ackies character rather than Waithes is worth watching because of her. Under director Ansari, Denise lacks emotion, he chooses to train the camera on the moment where the character is simply sitting, eating, staring at what? Who knows and frankly, who cares. This grown-up Denise is rather  boring  or maybe its the unbearable long takes.

A great companion piece since Alicia is pursuing interior design with a passion for antiques but her true passion is to give birth, and thats what the heart of season three is all about  life.

Alicias determination is so strong, she puts her body (and her spirit) through the IVF nightmare and the realization that her insurance company doesnt know or care how a queer woman might require to achieve motherhood.

Its here we feel the pain, of trying to achieve life, the audience goes through Alicias endless IVF cycles. She eventually achieves her motherhood goals and in the fifth episode, we see her, and Denise in a very adult relationship that is rather, surprising. Naomi Ackie as Alicia makes Master of None Presents: Moments of Love interesting and worth watching solely for her performance.

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Master of None Presents Moments of Love now playing on Netflix.
Most Blacks Locked Out of Market as California Median Home Cost Soars Past $800,000

The California Association of Realtors (CAR), the California Building Industry Association (CBIA), and Habitat for Humanity California have joined together to urge lawmakers to make additional investments in this years state budget to encourage developers to build more homes across California.

This is the only way, they insist, to solve two of the states most stubborn problems: a critical housing shortage and a general lack of affordable housing.

Those three organizations, along with a coalition of homebuilders, racial justice activists and homeownership advocates, are also calling for investments in the budget to address the racial gap in homeownership by increasing the housing supply at every income level.

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Black and Latinx households are priced out of the market disproportionately, a CAR. representative said. The median sales price of a home in California surged past a record $813,980 in April, and housing production stalled for the second consecutive year in 2020.

California desperately needs more housing to meet the needs of diverse middle-class and low-income Californians, Dave Walsh, president of CAR, said during a virtual news conference on May 20. With a historic budget surplus, now is the time to address the racial divide in homeownership and fix Californias severe housing shortage.

As home prices in California continue to set record highs, and only one in four Californians able to afford a home priced at the median cost, investments in new housing supply would address severe disparities in homeownership and reverse decades of exclusionary housing policies, CBIA, CAR., and Habitat for Humanity California said in a joint statement.

In February, CAR reported that housing affordability for the average Black household in California is 50% worse than that of their White counterparts. Less than one in five Black California households were able to buy a $659,380 median-priced home in 2020.

To achieve the housing we need, our state must make the investment in creating housing opportunities for working Californians to access all forms of stable homeownership, said Michael Gunning, Senior Vice President of Legislative Affairs for CBIA. To close the racial homeownership divide, we must address segregation caused by explicit, historic government policies at the local, state, and federal level.

That figure is compared to two in five White households in the state who could buy the same dwelling. A minimum annual income of $122,800 was required to make a monthly payment of over $3,000 on a fixed-rate mortgage.

Homeownership is a key element to building generational wealth and it helps to stabilize communities. Homeownership rates are at their lowest in California since the 1940s. Black and Latinx households are twice as likely to rent properties as White Californians.

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CBIA, CAR, and Habitat for Humanity California say that the record state budget surplus this fiscal year creates a historic opportunity to address Californias housing crisis and invest in more housing inventory across the state.

Of the $9.3 billion allocated to housing in Gov. Newsoms proposed May Revise budget, only $725 million, or less than 8%, goes toward expanding homeownership opportunities with programs such as down payment assistance, CAR points out.

It is time for California to lead through action in Sacramento to address these painful truths about past housing policies and create a new housing future that works for everyone, Gunning said. That can start with the budget investments were calling for today.

The groups are requesting for additional budget investments in a number of areas that would create opportunities to expand the housing inventory in the state, including matching grants and tax credits to complement those proposed by the Biden Administration; tax credits for first-time and low and moderate-income buyers; and incentives to increase construction.

This is about the future of our state. This is about keeping more Californians from being cost-burdened and falling into homelessness, Walsh said. Its about creating true housing equity for all Californians. Lets come together to prioritize more ownership housing  its the right thing to do to ensure the American dream of homeownership doesnt slip away for Californians who call the Golden State home.
New Obamacare Enrollment Nets 1 Million Sign Ups

Proclaiming that health care is a right and not a privilege, President Joe Biden said his administration is committed to ensuring that every American has access to the quality, affordable health care they need.

The President noted that since his American Rescue Plan authorized the re-opening of the Affordable Care Act in February, more than 1 million Americans have gained coverage. The former administration, which tried to demolish the health care law, had closed enrollment last fall.

In one of his first acts as President, Biden declared his intention of offering more coverage.

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Since it became law more than a decade ago, the Affordable Care Act has been a lifeline for millions of Americans. The pandemic has demonstrated how badly it is needed and how critical it is that we continue to improve upon it, President Biden stated.

On February 15, the Biden-Harris Administration expanded HealthCare.gov to provide all an opportunity to sign up for health insurance through a special enrollment period.

Less than three months later, the President announced that one million have signed up.

Thats one million more Americans who now have the peace of mind that comes from having health insurance. One million more Americans who dont have to lie awake at night worrying about what happens if they or one of their family members gets sick, President Biden remarked.

Through this opportunity for special enrollment, we have made enormous progress in expanding access to health insurance.

The administration also has focused efforts on ensuring that African Americans enroll.

Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra earlier announced commitments from national organizations to support Black American outreach and enrollment efforts during the special enrollment period.

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Governmental estimates show that Black Americans represent roughly 13 percent of the U.S. population but 16 percent of the uninsured.

Last month, HHS and its partnership organizations, combined social media efforts to inform African American consumers and spur enrollment in affordable, quality health plans through HealthCare.gov.

An estimated 66 percent of Black uninsured adults now may have access to a zero-premium plan and 76 percent may be able to find a low-premium plan as a result of expanded coverage, Secretary Becerra noted in a news release.

Black Americans are clearly taking advantage of the current Special Enrollment Period to access quality health care coverage, Secretary Becerra stated.

But we still have a lot of work to do. We are building on this encouraging momentum and earnestly teaming with key national partners serving Black communities.

He continued:

We are leveraging their expertise and networks to promote enrollment in quality, affordable health insurance coverage during this special enrollment period. Health care is more affordable now, and access easier than ever, for people in need of a health plan that best fits an individuals or familys health care needs.

President Biden reiterated that there remains plenty of time for anyone to sign up at www.HealthCare.gov.

The enrollment period has an August 15 deadline.

Getting more Americans covered is an important part of the equation  but we also need to lower health costs, President Biden continued.

My American Rescue Plan lowered premiums for nine million Americans who buy their coverage through the Affordable Care Act, saving families an average of $50 per person per month.

Americans are also seeing lower out-of-pocket costs. Since April 1, the median deductible for Americans signing up for new coverage on HealthCare.gov has dropped by nearly 90 percent, to just $50.

President Biden concluded that his American Families Plan would build on the work to make health care more affordable, including making the American Rescue Plans premium reductions permanent.

This milestone demonstrates that there is a need and a demand for high quality, affordable health insurance across this country, the President determined.

It is up to Congress to hear them and act quickly to pass the American Families Plan.

Click here for more information or to sign up for the Affordable Care Act.

@StacyBrownMedia @NNPA_BlackPress @JoeBiden @XavierBecerra
New Report Shows Number of People Killed by Police Skyrocketed in 2020





According to estimates compiled by the Mapping Police Violence project, roughly 1,000 people have been killed by law enforcement in the past year.

The new report revealed that at least 28 percent of those killed were African Americans, who make up just 13 percent of the U.S. population.

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Although this figure is staggering, the Center for American Progress (CAP) noted that it is almost certainly under-represents the actual number of civilians who died while in the custody of the criminal justice system. The full scope of which cannot be determined due to a lack of official data.

According to CAP, data on deaths in custody is crucial for holding law enforcement and correctional facilities across the country accountable.

The organization said the absence of accurate and complete information on the number of people who die in custody and the nature of such deaths, stifles policymakers ability to examine the underlying causes, let alone determine what can be done to lower the incidence.

In a new brief, CAP urged Congress and state legislatures to take the initiative to ensure the dependability of forthcoming data on deaths in custody.

One year ago, George Floyd was murdered by Minneapolis police as the world watched, spurring a blistering call for police accountability in the United States, CAP noted.

Floyd is one among the countless Black Americans and other people of color killed by law enforcement: Breonna Taylor, Michael Brown, Freddie Gray, Amadou Diallo, Botham Jean, Alton Sterling, Daniel Prude, Philando Castile, Eric Garner, Tamir Rice, Atatiana Jefferson, Stephon Clark, and too many others. In the year since Floyds death, the list has grown longer still with the deaths of Tony McDade, Rayshard Brooks, Daunte Wright, MaKhia Bryant, Adam Toledo, Andrew Brown, and, again, too many others.

According to CAP, while the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) began collecting data on deaths in custody in 2020 under the Death in Custody Reporting Act (DCRA) of 2013, outstanding funding and compliance issues could compromise the quality of the impending data.

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Findings based on such flawed data would not help policymakers understand the causes of deaths in custody or reduce their occurrence, the primary purpose of the DCRA, CAP editors wrote.

CAPs brief underscored how critical actions could be taken to address these concerns about data on deaths in custody.

Congress should appropriate the necessary funding for the DOJ Bureau of Justice Assistance to implement a methodology to search for and validate leads on deaths in custody, Kenny Lo, a research associate for Criminal Justice Reform at American Progress, wrote in the May 24 brief.

A similar approach enabled the DOJ Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) to identify nearly three times more arrest-related deaths than before as part of a broader effort that cost BJS less than $5 million between fiscal years 2014 and 2017.

For their part, state legislatures should look to compel all state and local law enforcement agencies to report DCRA data, Lo continued.

States such as California, Texas, Maryland, and Tennessee already have laws that require all agencies to report data similar to those required by the DCRA, serving as models for other states to follow, Lo Wrote. Incentivizing DCRA compliance by all agencies would improve the quality of the data and bring about meaningful accountability in the criminal justice system, he continued.

Our nation urgently needs to confront the scourge of police violence against communities of color. Yet for decades, the government has failed to track the number of deaths that occur in the justice system, said Betsy Pearl, associate director for Criminal Justice Reform at the Center for American Progress.

While data collection alone cant end systemic racism in our justice system and cant bring back the countless lives lost, its essential for laying the groundwork to create real accountability and justice for all.

Click here to view the full report by the CAP.
Retired Rams Star Gives Back with BLQK Coffee

Former St. Louis Rams running back, Justin Watson, is selling coffee with a cause. He and Ritchie Tuazon recently created the BLQK Coffee brand, part of their profits will be donated to help combat social justice issues.

The coffee comes in either whole or ground beans. To create the coffee, Watson does business with women-owned farming companies in Africa. Watson wanted to pay homage to the origin of coffee: Ethiopia.

We wanted to work with women-owned farms and source our coffee from women-owned farms and pay fair wages, Watson said. Its a proper fit for what were trying to do and what were trying to build as a company and a culture.

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BLQK Coffee will be donating 25 percent of its profits to initiatives that galvanize at-risk youth and social justice initiatives. Watson wants to set an example that companies can be more generous with their philanthropy efforts.

We really wanted to do something thats gonna make a difference and an impact and try and change the way that other companies, the way they do business, Watson said. It is possible to give so much back and still have a successful company.

When choosing organizations to donate to, Watson and his team prioritized programs that helped youth make academic choices that would ultimately lead them to attending college and help them get mentorship programs. BLQK Coffee chose to support the Brotherhood Crusade and Thrive Scholars.

We did a lot of research on companies that were trying to support kids that have dreams without the means to push forward, Watson said.

Another way they galvanize minorities is by encouraging the businesses they partner with to employ more people of color. The business they worked with took heed and went on to employ people of color for the project.

We had a requirement that said: Do you mind adding someone of color to this project to help? Watson said. It was one of our ways of moving the needle forward and helping our communities.

BLQK offers two flavors, African Blend and Single Origin. African Blend is a blend of different African farms while Single Origin is from one farm, according to Watson.

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Its really more of the tasting notes, he said. One has tasting notes of caramel, citrus, and cocoa and then the other is the tasting notes of the berries really pop out.

Watson is also into health and fitness, he wanted to create a coffee that does not need cream and sugar. BLQK Coffee sells whole bean coffee because they want to make their coffee fresh to order.

The company website www.blqk.coffee also has articles and resources to enhance their customers  coffee drinking experience. They provide a recipe for rustic bread to eat with coffee.

I believe that your coffee should be a ritual, Watson said. I think that when you wake up in the morning, thats your time and there should be a process that you welcome your daily routine.

A native of Bronx, New York, Watson was raised in Pasadena and went to Marshall Fundamental High School and San Diego State. In 1999, he signed with the then St. Louis Rams. During his rookie season, the Rams won Super Bowl XXXIV. Watson noted how he learned about the importance of optimism, dedication, and hard work. He uses these qualities to help BLQK Coffee.

Im a true believer that if you put in the work  and dedicate yourself to something that youre passionate about, good things will happen, Watson said.
Several South Los Angeles nonprofits and their top executives were recognized at the Los Angeles Business Journals annual Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship Awards. The awards honor individual organizations and leaders whose focus is to improve the communities they serve. Finalists and winners and were recognized during the L.A. Business Journal virtual event in early May.

I think its important that we acknowledge our own, said Community Build, Inc. President Robert Sausedo. Often times, nonprofit organizations  particularly nonprofit organization located in South Los Angeles  dont get the recognition they deserve for their contribution to the community. Its important to take a moment and say We appreciate you. Sausedo was nominated for the 2021 LA Business Journals Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship Awards Non-Profit Executive of the Year for his civic and community leader who has worked for the past three decades to make a difference in civic matters that impact youth, economic development, social justice and literacy.

Under Sausedos leadership, Community Builds funding for programs has more than doubled in less than two years. Sausedo, a former staff deputy during for Mark Ridley-Thomas tenure as a Los Angeles County Supervisor, has instituted new programs that provide employment and training programs for formerly incarcerated individuals as well as at-risk youth, seniors and those who are formerly homeless and reentering the workforce. The additional funding has led to Sausedo being able to expand community safety ambassador and community intervention programs resulting in more than 2,700 jobs last year.

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The Community Response System of South Los Angeles (CRSSLA), a program launched by Sausedo in March 2020 was also a Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship Award nominee. CRSSLA is a collaboration of churches, organizations and other local stakeholders who joined forces to aid the community with emergency and medical services during crises such as the pandemic.

The Community Response System of South Los Angeles is a bridge for collaboration among agencies in a crisis situation, Sausedo said. No one agency could do it all, but together we were able to provide a safety net for the community.

Other South Los Angeles nonprofits nominees for the prestigious award included Brotherhood Crusade, Debbie Allan Dance Academy, Los Angeles Urban League, South LA I Can Foundation and Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation.

Of the over 100 nominees, 37 individuals and nonprofits were selected as finalists. Four finalists represented African American organizations. Finalists and winners were chosen for their work in the nonprofit sector providing services, programs, training and resources to underserved communities.

The 100 Black Men of Los Angeles received a finalist nod for its work helping to create educational and economic opportunities within the African American community. The organization sponsors a Young Black Scholars Program which aims to increase the number of African-American high school graduates who opt to continue their education at a college or university. Members of the 100 Black Men of Los Angeles are also highly esteemed professionals who serve as mentors for the students, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Betty LaMarr, founder at EmpowHer Institute, was a finalist. LaMarr was a single, teenage mother living on public assistance. Her determination led her to later become an executive in the tech world. Her organization, EmpowHer, has assisted more than 4,000 African American and Latinx teenage girls in inner-city communities in Los Angeles County. The program helps middle school and high school-age girls set their sights on college and professional success. EmpowHer Institute, itself, has seen such phenomenal growth that every student has finished high school, and 100 percent of the programs high school seniors have been accepted into colleges of their choice.

Finalist Kameale Terry, was recognized for her work as the Los Angeles Chapter Chair at Women in CleanTech and Sustainability. She started the local chapter to help increase opportunities for women in the tech industry in Los Angeles. Women in CleanTech and Sustainability now has more than 5,000 community members worldwide. There is also a local chapter in the San Francisco Bay Area. In addition, Terry is also co-founder and CEO at ChargerHelp, Inc. which is an app that allows for on-demand repairs to be done at electric vehicle charging stations.

Councilman Curren Price (CD 9), is familiar with the work of these African American nonprofits and others. He said such community organizations are invaluable to Los Angeles and the people they serve.

Our African American nonprofits have provided a lifeline to communities hardest hit by the pandemic. From drive-thru food distributions, wipes and diapers giveaways, distribution of Personal Protective Equipment  they have done it all and continue to put the needs of our neighborhoods and families first, Councilman Price said. Community Build, Inc., and many other agencies are shining example of the role that our nonprofit organizations have played to get us on the other side of the pandemic and for that, we are grateful.

To view a recap of the 2021 Los Angeles Business Journals Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship Awards visit https://labusinessjournal.com/CitizenshipAwards/.

Los Angeles Business Journal recognized several African American nonprofits and their leaders at their Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship Awards. L- R Robert Sausedo, Community Build, Inc. and the Community Response System of South Los Angeles; Betty LaMarr, EmpowerHer Institute, 100 Black Men; and Kameale Terry, Women in CleanTech and Sustainability. (File Photos)
Samburu Project Marks Third Year of Improving Health in Kenya

The Samburu Project (TSP), a Los Angeles-based nonprofit, demonstrates how widespread of an impact clean water can have. On May 28, they will be participating in the successful international awareness campaign, Menstrual Hygiene Day, for the third year in a row.

Since 2005, TSP has been working with communities in Samburu, Kenya to increase access to clean water with the goal of improving health, expanding education, empowering women and encouraging economic and agricultural growth.

This year, TSP will once again collaborate with PadMad, a Kenyan social enterprise organization that produces womens reusable sanitary products, to distribute sustainable menstrual hygiene products and conduct a reproductive health workshop for girls in need.

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Every day, girls in Samburu and around the world are forced to put their studies on hold to try and manage their menstruation with no supplies or knowledge. This burden can cause each girl to miss up to 60 days of school a year   the equivalent of two months. To exacerbate this issue, without access to clean water, hygiene and sanitation are nearly impossible. However, with access to clean water, reusable menstrual hygiene supplies become a realistic option, allowing girls to stay in the classroom.

Last year, despite the devastating effects of COVID-19, The Samburu Project successfully raised over $11,000 to provide 1,000 girls in Samburu with sanitary supplies for a year. Also, The Samburu Project and PadMad held a workshop this past December to distribute the supplies and educate girls on reproductive health.

In 2019, the Kenyan Ministry of Health published their Menstrual Hygiene Management Policy in which they identified the following issues regarding water, sanitation and menstruation:

Only 32 percent of rural schools in Kenya have facilities where girls can change the products for the period during the day

65% of girls and women in Kenya cannot afford sanitary wear

On average, 4.9 days are missed of school every month by girls because of periods

58% of girls living in rural areas cant afford sanitary pads

TSP has aligned their goals to tackle these problems in Samburu. The Menstrual Hygiene Day event will build on the momentum from previous years by teaming up with PadMad and supplying another 1,000+ girls with the sanitary pads and move closer to a world where young girls are given equal opportunity.

To learn more, visit thesamburuproject.org.
Santa Monica Honors Black Residents and Black History at Belmars History + Art Project

Nearly two months ago, the city of Santa Monica unveiled its latest open space area, the Historic Belmar Park. As the exhibition stands, it educates natives to Santa Monica and visitors of the historic roots that lie in Black culture and community.

History would tell, from the 1880s Black as Black families migrated from the South escaping blatant racism and then Jim Crow, many chose California due to the climate, advertisements regarding employment, healthcare, and overall beautiful life. Many of these Black families landed in Santa Monica beach neighborhoods, including Belmar Park, in clusters, being some of the first to settle in a beach neighborhood.

Black families lived in Santa Monicas Belmar Park area until around 1950 when the city is said to have gone up in flames due to gentrification. What used to be a powerful Black community, then stood what is now the expanded Civic Center. Its reported nearly 80 percent of those displaced due to the changes were Black or Brown as the city prepared itself to clean up impoverished areas to create a more economically viable area.

Now, located in that same area, Belmars History + Art Project that stretches the citys park system provides a space for reflection and education. The new park showcases an outdoor exhibition, including an art installation created by April Banks titled, A Resurrection in Four Stanzas. There are also historical panels created by historian Dr. Alison Rose Jefferson.

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Shannon Daut, manager of Cultural Affairs for the City of Santa Monica proposed the project as a means of community engagement through art. Bringing in Dr. Jefferson, artist April Banks, and a community advisory committee, Dauts goals were to develop a program that uplifted and embraced the community. A project created during a time of present-day civil unrest, the Belmar History + Art Project could be seen as a restorative measure in the citys history. Now that the project has been completed, I have had to look back and think about all that we were able to accomplish in such a short time, during a very difficult year. In a way, it feels like the work has just begun, Banks shared in a statement.

We really embraced this, this condition that the Coastal Commission put in place and really see it now as a springboard for us to continue doing this work because theres such a rich history of African Americans in Santa Monica and many people didnt know about it. Belmar History + Art really gave us an opportunity to uplift this and really shine a light on both the issues of displacement, as well as celebrating all of the people that made this the city what it is today, Daut stated.

Understanding the power of art, Banks speaks to her work, The sculpture will take on a new life as people visit it and experience it from their own perspectives. I hope the community will use the sculpture as a place of reflection, storytelling and learning. I hope that the visibility of the piece encourages more families connected to this history to share their stories and that the historical record will continue to grow. And even though the time capsule is hidden away until 2070, it feels in a way, one of the most poignant parts of the art piece. It is a community vault, a repository, a talisman against future erasures.

Daut shares that the community has also embraced the project, Especially our Black community is very glad that this story is finally being told, she shared. I think art has the power to start conversations. We were nine months into the project when the civil unrest happened on May 31, [2020] here in Santa Monica around George Floyds death. There was a moment where I was watching the coverage of what was going on and I saw a car being burned in the Civic Center parking lot which is the place where these homes were literally burned down in the 50s. She tells the feeling was a punch to the gut as she noticed how little we have come since the civil rights movement.

Dr. Jefferson, who had been doing this research for years for several purposes, says her role as a historian was to connect the dots. This is not a public art project in its totality, this is a public history project which has an art component, she says. Dr. Jefferson affirms that there is more work to be done, much of which she has her hands in but this is a great step forward in cementing the history of Black residents in California across the beach neighborhoods.

Fellow historian, Robbie Jones also contributed to the creation of such an honorable moment in history. She tells as a native and current resident of Santa Monica, this public installment is about acknowledgment, restoration and healing for the Black community.

The Belmar History + Art project is one of the many projects that reveal our African American history in Santa Monica. As a business owner and local historian, I often wonder what my Black Santa Monica Tours and Concierge experience, Growing up Santa Monica would be like if there was still a Belmar community. I am very pleased that, with the installation of the multipurpose field, there are history and art components to view and not just a plaque. Historic Belmar Park is both an amazing history and art experience and also just fun to explore. In my opinion this was a courageous move from the City of Santa Monica Cultural Affairs Division to commemorate the history of the families of the Belmar area in this way. I am fortunate to be one of the community members chosen to be a part of the team that helped see through fruition this amazing piece of American history.

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For more information visit santamonica.gov/arts/belmar. The Belmar History + Art Project is also open to the public and can be viewed during park hours or watch the grand opening via YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Js4Mu5RZzvg.
Were Not Waiting for the Next George Floyd Moment

George Floyds horrific murder one year ago has ushered in a new era of accountability where its not enough to simply say Black Lives Matter. Its time to show it in our actions and decisions. It should now be crystal clear that we all have a responsibility to address anti-Black racism within our own systems and communities. We represent a group of Black civic leaders, formed out of the work of the Committee for Greater LA, who are working to build a blueprint for a new Los Angeles that lays out how we got here and what every Angeleno can do from here so that a global uprising is not necessary to get some measure of justice for one man.

One year ago today, outside of a convenience store in Minneapolis, George Floyds life tragically ended as Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck for what we now know was 9 minutes and 29 seconds. A courageous group of community members, one as young as nine years old, bore witness, filmed, and objected to Chauvins callous disregard for Floyds humanity. Derek Chauvins vile act could have easily been swept into the vast sea of statistics that are used to justify and normalize the level of force permitted in Black and brown communities. Their courage and fortitude ensured that George Floyds murder would be the exception to that rule.

Darnella Fraziers video made its way onto our timelines when we were collectively paralyzed by a virus burning through our community like wildfire. If we were not essential workers or unhoused, we were sheltering in place at home weary, anxious and traumatized by the loss of life, livelihoods, and any sense of normalcy that was disproportionately impacting Black and brown people. That video was the match that lit the powder keg that ignited an outpouring of rage, restlessness and resiliency never before seen on a global scale. Protesters from Minneapolis to Los Angeles to Cape Town called out in no uncertain terms that Black Lives Matter. If you had been living in a bubble glazed with apathy or willful ignorance, this epic wave of grief, trauma, exasperation at the erasure of Black peoples humanity may have caught you off guard. The magnitude of COVID-19 wasnt enough to make this moment blow over quickly as millions saw the importance of the opportunity to make this moment an undeniable movement.

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Here in Los Angeles, with our own sordid history of anti-Black racism and police brutality, we stood in solidarity with Minneapolis knowing that we have our own demons to exorcise. If we honestly take into account all of the intentional and unintentional systemic failures and discriminatory policies that have led to over policing in Black communities, disinvestment in education, an outsized population of unhoused persons, and tens of thousands underpaid, overworked Black essential workers providing our basic needs while at increased risk from COVID-19, we can begin to understand that the conditions that created the unrest around George Floyds murder could easily spawn from our streets just as it had in 1965 and 1992.

In September of 2020, the Committee for Greater LA released the No Going Back report that called for the creation of a State of Black LA Report led by Black leaders well-versed in the facts, figures and experiences that tell the story of generational discrimination and disinvestment in Black communities. This group, called the Black Experience Action Team, is committed to developing concrete plans to collectively address them through a partnership with UCLA, USC and more than 30 community, labor, philanthropy, business and government leaders. In August we will release our love letter to Black Los Angeles  that will incorporate in-depth data and policy analysis of the impacts of anti-Black racism coupled with a public arts strategy, community engagement and an actionable agenda that is community-centered. We did not create the circumstances that have led to intersectional and generational systemic injustice, but our voices must be centered in developing the solutions while celebrating our contributions to change the course of this city through our arts and grassroots resistance . The ultimate goal is to materially improve the lives of Black people and every other person in LA County left behind by a system designed to prevent us from thriving.

It took centuries to intentionally build the systemic racism we experience today. It will not be undone in a moment. If you thought the conviction of Derek Chauvin last month for the murder of George Floyd marked the end of the chapter on finally holding police accountable for the trauma and pain they inflict upon Black people and communities, you are sadly mistaken. If you or your organization made a public commitment that you would no longer stand for anti-Black racism and systemic oppression in any form, the work is far from over. We saw your social media posts, read your statements, walked alongside you at the protests, heard your calls for activism and allyship. This moment requires holding each other accountable, pushing our systems towards a new Los Angeles where we can demonstrate that if you fix it for Black people, you fix it for everyone.

We are developing a platform to put these commitments into action. We are counting on all Angelenos to step up and partner with us to push our institutions toward transformational change and an equitable Los Angeles for all.

April Verrett

Black Experience Action Team Chair

President, SEIU 2015
When we get past the test, we can see the full picture

The idea of assessing a students capability or potential in college with a single standardized test never sat right with me. I only have to look as far as the details of my own life to know how complicated it is to chart a persons future from one snapshot in time.

When I was in high school at Verbum Dei in South Los Angeles, I faced the kinds of challenges that made attending school every day feel like a monumental step. I would zone out in class thinking about my reality outside of school, not about what Shakespeare was saying in his Sonnets.

But when I was at school none of this mattered, my trauma and experiences were irrelevant to why I was there. I was there to perform well, on everything from English papers and Math tests, and most of all, the SATs. I was a child with a dysfunctional lifestyle, in survival mode, expected to show up fully present, and I wasnt the only one.

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From my own experiences, I knew that there was a fundamental issue with the way the government was addressing education and housing. I also knew that going to college would allow me the ability to study the root causes, ascertain certain resources and put them into practice and bring about tangible results. I could see myself making those changes.

But I knew taking the SAT would be critical to my chances of getting into a good school. I had my heart set on UCLA or UC Berkeley, schools where I imagined I could be trained to be the kind of leader that would build a more equitable California. I took the free classes that were offered to us, but never got the kind of individualized attention and training that can meaningfully improve your scores. How did I know this? I saw how well my peers with private tutoring performed, it was undeniable. As I kept taking practice tests, I questioned myself, was I really intelligent enough for the dreams I had for myself?

But I figured it out. This test is flawed. It did not account for my experiences, good and bad. The SAT didnt showcase to the UCs that I gave a TEDx talk addressing a discriminatory policy at my school and initiating policy change at the state level. It didnt highlight that I sat on my neighborhood council as the youth representative, that I was involved in organizing with Community Coalition, that I advocated for workers with the long-term homecare union SEIU Local 2015, that I was working to end child poverty with the Childrens Defense Fund, or that I was a youth ambassador with Imagine LA.

It didnt matter because the SAT shut all of it out, The University of California was out of reach for me.

This past year has shown that when those who are sick and tired of being sick and tired, say no more, change is bound to occur. For countless admissions cycles, the SAT was a rite of passage, something every student, regardless of their background, felt was critical to their future. But, just last week, I learned that the tide is turning as The University of California reached an agreement with me and my fellow plaintiffs in the lawsuit we brought to end the use of the SAT and ACT in admissions. The SAT/ACT represented a complete erasure of students who are Black, disabled, multilingual learners and of the working class; all students who deserve a shot at a good education.

I got a message recently from a student in Florida who heard about our lawsuit thanking me and letting me know that her class is studying our case; shes hopeful it will have a ripple effect at schools across the country.

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As for me, Im a student at Morehouse College studying Sociology, still deciding on my future career path, although I know that I will ultimately be in the public sector, serving my communities. My dream is to follow in the footsteps of Los Angeles County Board Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, championing the issues that make all of our lives better  housing, children, and educational rights. I should know, Ive already taken a big step in that direction.

Kawika Smith was the lead plaintiff in Smith v Regents of the University of California. Hes a graduate of Verbum Dei High School in Los Angeles and is currently finishing his first year at Morehouse College in Atlanta.


President Joe Biden on Wednesday asked U.S. intelligence officials to redouble their efforts to investigate how the new coronavirus started.

The investigation aims to find out whether the coronavirus came from human contact with an infected animal or from an accident at a Chinese laboratory in Wuhan.

The move follows growing calls in the U.S. and around the world for China to be more open about the beginnings of the pandemic.

Biden asked U.S. intelligence agencies to report on their findings within 90 days. He directed U.S. national laboratories to assist with the investigation. He also called on China to cooperate with international investigations.

Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, have supported the theory that the coronavirus came from a laboratory accident rather than natural infections from animals.

Biden in a statement said the majority of the U.S. intelligence community had considered those two possibilities. But there was not enough information to say that one was more likely than the other.

The president said two agencies favor the animal theory and one leans more toward the laboratory theory, adding, each with low or moderate confidence.

The United States will also keep working with like-minded partners around the world to press China to participate in a full, transparent, evidence-based international investigation, said Biden. He also called on China to provide all necessary information and evidence.



Earlier on Tuesday, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the administration supports a new World Health Organization (WHO) investigation in China. But she added that an effective investigation would require China to release needed information.

Last February, the WHO sent investigators to China but received limited cooperation from the Chinese government.

Biden said that, without Chinese cooperation, the international investigations will not go anywhere. The failure to get our inspectors on the ground in those early months will always hamper any investigation into the origin of COVID-19, he said.

Dr. Anthony Fauci is a White House coronavirus adviser. He said Wednesday that he and most others in the scientific community believe that the most likely scenario is that this was a natural occurrence, but [no] one knows that 100 percent for sure.

Andy Slavitt is an adviser to Biden. He said Tuesday that the world needs to find out, whatever the answer may be.

Slavitt added, We need the WHO to assist in that matter. We dont feel like we have that now.

Im Jonathan Evans.

Zeke Miller and Aamer Madhani reported this story for the Associated Press. Hai Do adapted it for VOA Learning English. Mario Ritter, Jr. was the editor.

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Words in This Story

redouble v. to greatly increase size or amount

confidence n. a feeling of belief that something will happen or is true

participate v. to be involved in; to take part in

transparent adj. honest and open; not secretive

hamper v. to slow the movement, progress or action of someone

scenario n. a description of what could possibly happen

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Republican Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida signed a bill this week that seeks to punish social media companies that remove conservative ideas from their networks.

Whether the bill violates the U.S. Constitutions First Amendment remains unclear. The First Amendment prevents government from limiting the freedom of speech or of the press.

The new law will permit the state to fine large social media companies $250,000 a day if they remove the account of a statewide political candidate. There is also a fine of $25,000 a day if they remove the account of someone running for a local office. It takes effect July 1.

DeSantis said some of the social media companies were using power over our population that really has no precedent in American history.

He also accused the companies of wanting to suppress ideas.

It is unclear if Florida will be able to enforce the law. Federal law prevents internet companies from being taken to court for removing posts. And federal law always overtakes state law when there is a conflict.

Section 230 of the federal Communications Decency Act says internet companies cannot be taken to court for removing material that is obscene, violent or objectionable, among other things.

Republicans have long accused companies like Twitter and Facebook of censoring conservative thought. DeSantis pointed to the decision by Twitter to ban former President Donald Trump while still allowing Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to have an account.

You remove the president of the United States, but you let Ayatollah Khamenei talk about killing Jews, that is wrong, DeSantis said.

Twitter did not answer a request for comment. Facebook refused to comment.

NetChoice, an organization that represents technology companies, criticized the new law in a statement.

This bill takes us closer to a state-run internet where the government can pick winners and losers, said NetChoice vice president Carl Szabo.

He added that the new bill was meant to punish social media companies because of a belief that they are anti-conservative.

The law will give Floridas attorney general the power to take social media companies to court. It also allows any individual who believes he has been treated unfairly to take the social media company to court.

The bill targets social media companies that have more than 100 million monthly users. These include Twitter and Facebook. Lawmakers, however, said websites of amusement park owners, like Disney and Comcast, would not be subject to the law.

The new Florida law will most likely not hold up against the constitution, said Computer and Communications Industry Association President Matt Schruers.

While DeSantis says his new law protects free speech, Schruers said that an internet company that does not want to have Nazis or other objectionable people on its service is exercising its own First Amendment rights.

Florida Democrats opposed the bill. They defended the right of social media companies to control information on their platforms.

Democratic Senator Audrey Gibson said in a statement that the bill was passed to please Trump. Other Republican-run states are considering similar bills after Facebook and Twitter banned the former president for violating their standards.

She said the companies take responsibility for what appears on their services and have the right to do so.

Im Susan Shand.

The Associated Press reported this story. Susan Shand adapted it for Learning English. Hai Do was the editor.

_______________________________________________________

Words in This Story

precedent  n. something done or said that can be used as an example or rule to be followed in the future

post  n. to add (a message) to a social media platform

obscene  adj. relating to sex in an indecent or offensive way

censor  v. the act of examining books, movies, letters, etc., and removes things that are considered to be offensive, immoral, harmful to society, et

standard  n. level of quality, achievement, etc., that is considered acceptable or desirable

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The United States plans to launch new rules designed to protect pipeline companies against increasing cyberattacks.

The action follows a cyberattack earlier this month that shut down a major U.S. fuel pipeline. The outage, involving a 9,000 kilometer pipeline system, led to temporary fuel shortages in some places in the eastern United States.

U.S. officials say new cybersecurity regulations are expected to be issued this week by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The TSA oversees the nations network of pipelines.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said Tuesday that TSA officials had already begun working with private pipeline companies on ways to identify and prevent cyberattacks.

One of the new regulations will require the companies to report cyber threats to the federal government, one official told The Associated Press. Another rule is expected to require pipeline operators to complete a self-examination of their systems for possible vulnerabilities to cyberattacks.

Mark Montgomery is with the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies. He is also the former director of the congressionally supported Cyberspace Solarium Commission.

Montgomery told the AP he sees the expected requirements as a good step forward in the fight against cyberattacks. He added that such regulations need to be put in place for non-pipeline companies as well, so that all our national critical infrastructure is at a higher level.

At a news conference this week, DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas spoke about the ransomware attack that shut down the Colonial Pipeline. He said that kind of attack is one of the greatest cybersecurity threats that we face in the United States.

In a ransomware attack, online attackers infect the computer systems of organizations and hijack data in a way that leaves it unreadable. The attacker then demands payment in exchange for returning the data to a usable state.

Colonial Pipeline in Georgia said it had paid a ransom of $4.4 million to regain control of its data from the cybercriminals. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has linked the attack to a Russian-speaking criminal group known as DarkSide.

Suzanne Spaulding is a cybersecurity expert with the Center for Strategic and International Studies based in Washington, D.C. She said many companies are still not taking steps to protect themselves.

"There are two kinds of companies in the world, those who have been hacked and those who haven't detected it yet," she told the French press agency AFP.

Spaulding noted one problem is that many countries cannot produce enough computer workers who are trained to deal with serious cyber threats. This shortage drives up pay rates, making it difficult for many organizations to employ quality workers with the right skills.

Private cybersecurity companies have been helpful to organizations facing threats and can also help prevent new attacks. But a new report suggests that publicizing anti-ransomware measures can also help cybercriminals.

The report was published jointly by MIT Technology Review and ProPublica. It details how Romanian cybersecurity company BitDefender announced in January it had found a fix to help companies avoid ransomware attacks by the DarkSide group.

BitDefender said it had discovered a flaw in the ransomware that DarkSide had been using to freeze computer networks of American and European businesses.

But by bringing attention to its fix, BitDefender also let DarkSide know about the flaw, which it was able to quickly repair. The next day, DarkSide declared: Special thanks to BitDefender for helping fix our issues. This will make us even better.

The fix was quickly confirmed when DarkSide carried out a series of new attacks, including the hijack of Colonial Pipelines data.

The joint report notes that two other cybersecurity experts had also discovered BitDefenders flaw a month before BitDefender. But those researchers did not publicly announce their finding. Instead, they began secretly reaching out to possible victims to offer help.

Im Bryan Lynn.

Bryan Lynn wrote this story for VOA Learning English, based on reports from Reuters, The Associated Press, Agence France-Press, MIT Technology Review and ProPublica. Mario Ritter, Jr. was the editor.

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page.

Quiz - US to Set New Pipeline Rules to Protect Against Cyberattacks Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz

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Words in This Story

regulation  n. an official rule that controls how something is done

vulnerable  adj. able to be easily hurt, influenced or attacked

infrastructure  n. the basic equipment and structures (such as roads and bridges) that are needed for a country or region

hack  n. to use a computer to illegally get into someone elses computer system to read the information that is kept there

detect  v. to discover or notice something

flaw  n. a mistake or defect




People play the lottery with the hopes of winning money, sometimes a lot of money. Your chances of winning are small, but the payoffs can be big. It takes a lot of luck to win.

But for a woman in Massachusetts winning the lottery involved more than luck. It involved extreme honesty and kindness.

Lea Rose Fiega accidentally threw out a $1 million lottery ticket. But thanks to the kindness and honesty of the owners of the store where she bought it, she eventually collected her winnings.

Fiega bought the $30 Diamond Millions scratch-off ticket in March at a convenience store in Southwick, Massachusetts. The store is near her workplace. And it is named the Lucky Stop.

She told the Associated Press on Monday, I was in a hurry, on lunch break, and just scratched it real quick  and it didnt look like a winner 

So, she handed it to the store owners to throw away. The ticket lay in the store for 10 days.

One evening, I was going through the tickets from the trash and found out that she didnt scratch the number, Abhi Shah, the son of the stores owners, told a local television station.

So, he scratched off the number. It was $1 million ticket.

Fiega is a regular customer. So, the family knew immediately who had thrown it away.

Shah went to see her at work. Fiega said, He came to my office and said, My Mom and Dad would like to see you. She told the young man that she was busy working. But he said, No, you have to come over.

So, Fiega went to the store and that is when the family told her the news.

I was in total disbelief, Fiega said. I cried. I hugged them.

In January, Fiega nearly died from COVID-19. She said recovering from that was like winning the lottery. In American English, we also say we hit the lottery to mean we have had some good luck, any type of good luck.

Now after winning $1 million, Fiega says she feels doubly lucky.

Speaking of the family, she is still in disbelief. I mean, who does that? Theyre great people. I am beyond blessed, she said.

The store gets $10,000 from the state lottery company for selling the winning ticket. Fiega said she gave the family some money to thank them. She is saving the rest for retirement.

Im Anna Matteo.

Writers for the Associated Press reported on this story. Anna Matteo adapted it for VOA Learning English. Susan Shand edited it.

__________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

lottery  n. a way of raising money for a government, charity, etc., in which many tickets are sold and a few of the tickets are chosen by chance to win prizes

scratch-off  phrasal verb to remove (something) from an object or surface by rubbing with a sharp edge or tool

ticket  n. a card or piece of paper that shows that you are participating in a contest, raffle, etc.

convenience store  n. a small store that is open for many hours of the day

customer  n. someone who buys goods or services from a business

hug  v. to hold (something) tightly with your arms

blessed  adj. having a sacred nature : connected with God : very welcome, pleasant, or appreciated
Remains found in Washington in 2019 have been identified as those of a missing Corvallis man by DNA evidence, Corvallis police said Wednesday.

Christian Longs remains were found on the banks of the Columbia River in Cowlitz County, Washington, in May 2019, but could not be identified at the time. Long was 19 when his father, Donald Long, reported him missing in December 2016. Police have not released information about a cause of death and said the case remains an open investigation."

We are confident there are individuals who have information about the circumstances surrounding the death of Christian Long, and we implore them to contact the Corvallis Police Department to assist us, Detective Greg Kantola said in a news release.

Long was originally reported missing after he told his father he was going to Eugene for a while during October 2016. That December, after Donald Long lost contact with Christian Long, he reported his son missing to the Corvallis police.

Police say they received multiple tips from the public, including several that came from out of state, but were able to rule out leads or exhaust all accurate information they were given in the search for Christian Long. Donald Long gave a DNA sample to be entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System database.
This lack of clear understanding often manifests in roadside contacts between officers and members of the public, according to the study. Officers said it can be difficult determining the authenticity of documentation showing a person is in lawful possession of large amounts of marijuana. They also reported a near-impossibility in determining if a driver in Oregon with large amounts of marijuana is heading out of state.

Offenders often claim the product is hemp rather than marijuana which also makes it difficult to determine what the product is, one officer wrote.

Many officers also reported declining to make marijuana arrests because they feel district attorneys will not prosecute the cases.

It seems pointless to care about it when, in (redacted) county, even if someone has several hundred pounds, there will be no prosecution, wrote a respondent. I would just prefer that it is legalized and then it is not an issue.

Deschutes County District Attorney John Hummel said he prosecutes all valid arrests that reach his office. He noted some of the survey respondents work outside Deschutes County.
FILE - In this May 19, 2021, file photo, Lt. Gov. Janice McGeachin announces her candidacy to become governor of Idaho at a rally on the Statehouse steps in Boise, Idaho. Lt. Gov. McGeachin on Thursday, May 27, 2021, issued an executive order banning mask mandates statewide among state political entities and schools. McGeachin is acting governor while Republican Gov. Brad Little is out of state at the Republican Governors Association conference.
Competing in his first basketball game of the season, sophomore Jaedyn Brown was summoned off the bench and provided Pullman with the shot in the arm the Greyhounds needed to sew up a 70-65 road victory against Clarkston in the second game of a Greater Spokane League doubleheader Friday at C
Steven Roberts teaches politics and journalism at George Washington University. He can be contacted by email at stevecokie@gmail.com.
Civility is within You -- Let it Out

NEWS PROVIDED BYMay 27, 2021CHARLESTON, S.C., May 27, 2021 / Standard Newswire / -- "Civility is within you. Pass it on." Rev. Susan Sparks recounts seeing this billboard outside Las Vegas in her new book, Love, a Tiara and a Cupcake. "This was such a simple reminder, but one that hit me like a jet breaking the sound barrier. We have civility in us. Find it, remember it and pass it on." Christian civility is the purpose of the fifth-tenth annual Say Something Nice Sunday on June 6, 2021.Churches of all denominations will join in the celebration of the day to promote more Christ-like speech. The goal is to turn down the hostile rhetoric in an attempt to promote more productive communication. The movement started at First Baptist Church in Charleston, South Carolina and was quickly followed by the Charleston/Atlantic Presbytery. Disciples of Christ, Lutheran, and Methodists churches picked up the cause. In 2010 The Most Reverend Robert E. Guglielmone, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Charleston (representing all of South Carolina) endorses the celebration. "Our words should be used to express love not hatred. What better way can we express this belief than to celebrate a day devoted to healing with our words?"Rev. Dr. Marshall Blalock, pastor of First Baptist Church and former president of the South Carolina Baptist Convention said, "Today we recover the idea that we need to choose our words carefully and turn them into a powerful force for good. Today we will discover how to routinely choose wise words that build others up rather than tear them down."Why have a Say Something Nice Sunday? The simple answer is that words are powerful. Words have the power to build or destroy. Words have the power to wound or to heal. With our words we have the possibility to build a Christian community or to destroy it. This special day is an opportunity to build a community of faith, strengthen relationships and heal old wounds. This is a day to thank all those who make our lives better just by being a part of them. It is a day to thank those who have made our lives better in special ways.There is nothing to buy. Free materials are available at fbcharleston.org . Click on Messages/Resources at the top of the page and then scroll down to Say Something Nice Sunday.SOURCE Mitch CarnellCONTACT: 843-991-8745, mitch@mitchcarnell.com
Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
The program, which began with fleet services employees using an e-bike to travel between worksites and with city gardeners using it to haul equipment and brush, was designed to test how various departments might make use of two-wheeled transportation. When the COVID pandemic put an end to vehicle sharing, the bike offered a convenient way to get around without using personal vehicles.

Our pilot was very successful and we found a number of jobs that worked very well for use of the e-cargo bike, said Pedestrian Bicycle Administrator Renee Callaway in an email, explaining that employees in five city departments used the bike for jobs ranging from removing graffiti and moving bike racks to collecting seeds and planting trees.

There is strong interest in purchasing (additional e-bikes) for City use, Callaway wrote. I think in the future they are tools that will be very useful.
Under the legislation, introduced by Reps. David Steffen, R-Green Bay, and Evan Goyke, D-Milwaukee, more people would have the ability to have their records expunged, but the scope of crimes eligible for expungement would not change.

A June 2018 report by the nonpartisan Wisconsin Policy Forum found that Wisconsin's current expungement law is stricter than all of its neighboring states, aside from Iowa. Key among the differences in Wisconsin law are its age limit and its requirement that judges make expungement decisions at the time of sentencing.

"Research has shown that (expungement) makes a huge difference economically to people," Mansfield said. "They become more employable, and they also can better support their families then. When somebodys working, they have money to contribute to the economy, they have money to take care of their families, they have money to pay for child care. So it has a really important trickle-down effect."
Separately, committee members voted 11-4 along party lines to reward districts that havent been holding classes virtually in the last school year by pledging to use $114.6 million in incoming American Rescue Plan Act funding for schools that provided at least half of their instruction hours in-person, a $39 per-pupil increase for qualifying districts.

In previewing the action Thursday morning, Republicans on the Joint Finance Committee pointed to the millions of dollars school districts have received and are poised to continue to receive from the feds in COVID-19 relief aid. The majority of the funds are distributed through the Title I formula, which is based on the percentage of low-income students in a district.

In discussing the highlights with reporters, Republicans on the Joint Finance Committee pointed to the millions of dollars school districts have received and are poised to continue to receive from the feds in COVID-19 relief aid.

Thursday's K-12 budget votes came in the days after leaders on the committee said they became aware of a provision in the American Rescue Plan Act, the latest federal COVID relief plan, that requires states to maintain their budgetary investments in education at the same level they did over the last three fiscal years.
As Wisconsins premier museum of African American history, there is even a commercial imperative in play. Interest in African American history is increasing across the nation. Wisconsin has gone from a state whose image shined from the key role we played in abolishing slavery to one that tragically has become one of the most segregated, impoverished and incarcerated spaces for African Americans in the U.S. Yet there is an awakening to both our past and present with an eye toward creating a better future. The WBHSM invites Americans to explore this history, and in so doing potentially become a site for historical tourism that could attract dollars by those wishing to continue the dream of Martin Luther King Jr. to create a better future.

Borns move to defund the museum not only confounds the very founding ideals of Wisconsin and the Republican Party, but is also a penny-wise, pound-foolish savings that tarnishes our states reputation and fails to account for the present and future museum tourist potential that the Wisconsin Black Historical Society Museum delivers.

Mister Born, we all err. Yet, its not too late for you to utilize the tools and repairs at your disposal to correct this mistake and take Wisconsin Forward in the tradition of the Grand Old Party of Lincoln.
Larry said in a statement in the lawsuit that having her kids enrolled for summer school at Mitchell as opposed to Julian Thomas  which is within walking distance of her home  puts a burden on her family: If Julian Thomas school is open this summer, I will send both of my children there. We live within a 5-minute walk of this school. I have enrolled my sons in one of the three schools open this summer (Mitchell) but it is very far from our home and RUSD has not offered me bus service for one of my sons, making it difficult for the entire family, in part, because I have to work. My children need to attend summer school because during the past year they only were in school about three months. They have lost learning. I am worried about their education. RUSD should open Julian Thomas school this summer.
The vast majority of COVAX vaccine supplies are from the Serum Institute of India, which is keeping most of its vaccines to deal with a coronavirus surge of cases and deaths.



JAKARTA, Indonesia  Two vaccines made by Chinas Sinopharm appear to be safe and effective against COVID-19, according to a study published in a medical journal.

The report, published online in the Journal of the American Medical Association, concluded the two vaccines are about 73% and 78% effective, as Sinopharm has previously claimed.

Scientists have been waiting for more details about the two vaccines, even though they already are used in many countries and one recently won the backing of the World Health Organization.

Researchers from Sinopharm and its local partners in the Middle East say the trial involved 40,380 participants with the companys two vaccines  one developed by the Wuhan Institute of Biological Products and the other by the Beijing Institute of Biological Products  and a placebo. The trial was carried out in Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Jordan. However, the study provided data for just Bahrain and the UAE.
But in a sign of support for Belarus, Russian authorities refused to allow two EU-based carriers to change their routes to Moscow so they could skirt Belarusian airspace. An Austrian Airlines flight from Vienna and an Air France flight from Paris both had to be canceled, the companies said. It was unclear what would happen to Friday's schedule.

The French pilots union SNPL said in a statement it was "more than surprised at the move.

While normally the responses to this type of request for modification are accepted immediately, its been radio silence for two days from the Russian authorities, it said.

The 27-nation bloc previously slammed Belarusian authorities with sanctions over the August election, which gave Lukashenko a sixth term and that opposition groups have rejected as rigged, along with his ensuing crackdown on protests.

If the next batch of sanctions does not ease the crackdown on the opposition and democratic values, German Foreign minister Heiko Maas said the EU will continue to look at what effects this has in Belarus, whether Lukashenko relents. If that isnt the case, we have to assume that this will be just the beginning of a big and long spiral of sanctions.
Ramaekers spent much of the last year conducting recording sessions, which he said lacked the give-and-take energy of a live audience. Those sessions often prove more difficult as they require extensive editing, and musicians cannot hear one another as clearly.

Those limitations are what stopped the Middleton Orchestra from pursuing online rehearsals or performances, Taranto said.

I dont think it would have been that much fun for people to be in their bedrooms with iPhones and a headset in one ear, listening to a click track and trying to play their part. Taranto said.

That means for many members, Sunday will be their first performance in over a year. To accommodate that, Ramaekers said he chose pieces that included a large number of musicians, ensuring everyone who wanted to play could.

This first concert back is more about making music than perfecting technique, as the orchestra has had to be especially flexible this year, co-founder Larry Bevic said.

Time to explore
Despite courts siding with Bidens victory in the state, Vos said he believes there were irregularities in the November election and that hes directed the investigators to follow the facts and investigate all leads. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel first reported on Vos hiring the investigators.

We need to have a fact basis to continue to show the public in Wisconsin that, number one, we continue to take these irregularities seriously, and that at the end of the day, the laws that we proposed are based on facts in addition to anecdotes, Vos told the State Journal.

Specifically, Vos said he takes issue with the involvement of the Center for Tech and Civic Life  funded largely by Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg  in the presidential election in some of Wisconsins largest cities. A federal judge found nothing in the law to prohibit use of the grant money.

Vos also said he takes issue with local election officials filling in missing witness address information on absentee ballot envelopes. Vos said he hopes the investigators will help determine if there was wrongdoing in the election, as well as provide evidence for why certain election laws should be changed, as Republicans are proposing in a litany of election-related bills working their way through the Legislature.
The 27th annual Manhattan Wine Auction will put 225 lots and 750 individual bottles of the grape-based alcohol up for bid this weekend to raise money for the Manhattan Beach Education Foundation.
Any pro-life student would have pause with going to UW knowing this arrangement is in place, he said.

Golden called that comment hurtful. He said medical students and residents dont have to undergo abortion training.

We are not hostile to those people who opt out, he said.

Heather Weininger, executive director of Wisconsin Right to Life, told the committee that no matter who pays the UW doctors theyre still doing abortions on behalf of Planned Parenthood.

Jacque introduced an identical bill during the 2017-19 legislative session but it never got a floor vote in either house. Jacque and Golden made the same arguments on Wednesday as they did during a hearing before the Senate health committee in 2017.

This versions prospects look uncertain. Seven groups have registered in opposition, including the Wisconsin Medical Society and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Pro-Life Wisconsin is the only group that has registered in support, according to the state ethics commission.
The Legislatures GOP-led budget committee voted Thursday to increase state taxpayer funding for schools by $128 million over the next two-year budget, less than 10% of the roughly $1.6 billion increase sought by Democratic Gov. Tony Evers.

In what has become a common talking point this budget cycle, Republicans said the K-12 spending plan, which passed 11-4 along party lines, is an effort to account for billions in federal stimulus funds provided to the state during the pandemic. However, the GOP budget may fall short of what the state needs to spend in order to get all those dollars, according to the nonpartisan Legislative Fiscal Bureau.

It is hard to talk about how were going to fund our schools and ignore the fact that we have so much fed funding coming into the state, said committee member Rep. Jessie Rodriguez, R-Oak Creek. It is part of the conversation.

Wisconsin schools are set to receive roughly $2.6 billion in federal aid through several coronavirus stimulus packages passed by Congress over the course of the pandemic.
One year ago, a Minneapolis police officer squeezed the life out of George Floyd a minute at a time as the handcuffed 46-year-old Black man lay sprawled on the pavement. Onlookers were powerless to stop it, fellow officers unwilling.

Those minutes galvanized a movement, crystallizing the grief and rage from countless similar incidents that came before. This one death spurred millions across the nation and the world to march on behalf of a simple but too often ignored truth: Black lives matter.

A year later that movement has gained strength, sustained by a widening coalition of those determined to make this truth recognized. The difficulty here is not to be underestimated. It is not enough to say All lives matter. That ignores the special horrors to which Black people have been subjected since slavery. It is not enough for allies to comfort themselves by saying This is not who we are. It is, indeed, part of who we are as a country and has been for a long time.

But there is a bigger part, the part that committed to equality in the Constitution so long ago; that fought to end Jim Crow; that championed civil rights, and that now is being called on, at long last, to snuff out systemic racism in all its remaining forms.
Historical groups abound in Mini-Cassia, but all found themselves in a pickle a year ago due to social-distancing protocols.

It was tough running museums under socially distanced protocols, said Mary Lynne Bristol, secretary of the Albion Valley Historical Society, who also volunteers with the privately owned Albion Campus Museum.

But, with new policies in place after social restrictions ease, Bristol expects local museums to bounce back. Until then, many are available for private tours.

The tiny town of Albion has some of the deepest roots in the Magic Valley, dating back to cattlemen in the 1860s, back when Owyhee County engulfed most of southern Idaho. Cassia County was created in 1879 from the eastern half of Owyhee County and included what is now Twin Falls County.

Albion was the seat of Cassia County for 40 years  from 1879 until 1919  and saw the county through infamous murders, trials and confessions in the late 19th century, and the development of the Twin Falls irrigation system in the early 20th century. Oakley, a pre-irrigation-era Mormon settlement close to the Utah border, also has an active historical society and museum.
BOISE  While acting as governor in Gov. Brad Littles absence on Thursday, Lt. Gov. Janice McGeachin issued an executive order prohibiting mask mandates issued by the state or its political subdivisions, including public schools, counties, cities and public health districts. It also extends to state boards, commissions, departments and divisions.

The order is effective as of 11 a.m.

Littles press secretary, Marissa Morrison Hyer, told the Idaho Capital Sun via email that the governor is out of the state collaborating with other state governors, but he will be back Thursday evening.

The lieutenant governor did not make Gov. Little aware of her executive order ahead of time, Morrison Hyer said.

The governors office is reviewing the order, she said. An expanded statement from the governors office on the executive order will be made available after it is reviewed, according to Morrison Hyer.

Throughout the pandemic, Gov. Little has been committed to protecting the health and safety of the people of Idaho and has emphasized the importance of Idahoans choosing to protect our neighbors and loved ones and keeping our economy and schools open, she said. Idahoans value local control and the local approach to addressing important issues.
In Idaho, hunting rules already had been incrementally loosened over the past decade without causing a huge spike in the number of wolves killed, said Idaho Fish and Game spokesperson Roger Phillips. Hunters and trappers killed about 500 wolves in the state in 2020.

Idaho officials will be able to closely track how many are killed under the new rules through a mandatory reporting system. However, if problems emerge, any changes would have to be made by lawmakers after they took away wolf management decisions from state wildlife commissioners, Phillips said.

The Fish and Wildlife Service has long contended its not necessary for wolves to be in every place they once inhabited to be considered recovered. Spokesperson Vanessa Kauffman would not say if federal officials were looking at the new laws. The agency has 90 days to decide if protections may be warranted, but has not always met deadlines with previous petitions.

Wolves were wiped out across most of the U.S. by the 1930s under government-sponsored poisoning and trapping campaigns. They were reintroduced from Canada into the Northern Rockies in the 1990s and expanded over the past two decades into parts of Oregon, Washington and California.

The population in the Midwest has grown to some 4,400 wolves. In Colorado, voters last year passed a measure requiring the state to begin reintroducing wolves in coming years.

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Shoot him, Harold insisted.

The younger boy shot at Hamill as he crouched behind Harold. The slug passed through Harolds leg and hit Hamill in the right eye, killing him instantly.

The Lovelace boys finished packing Hamills wagon full of can goods and other provisions, left Hamills body in his cabin, then started on what would  days later  become a 120-mile wild goose chase covering the western half of Twin Falls County.

Sheriff Frank Kendall described the boys and their flight from justice.

They were clad only in shoes, burst out with their toes sticking through, ragged, patched overalls, shirts in a similar condition, ragged coats and battered hats, Kendall told the Twin Falls Weekly Times.

Kendall and his posse didnt know who they were chasing.

Of course, all this time we were not looking for the boys, Kendall told the Times. But after following that terrible trail, we thought perhaps we were on the trail of an insane man.

See Part 2 in next weeks Hidden History column in the Times-News and at Magicvalley.com.

Mychel Matthews is the senior reporter for the Times-News. The Hidden History feature runs every Thursday in the Times-News and at Magicvalley.com. If you have a question about something that may have historical significance, email Matthews at mmatthews@magicvalley.com.

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BOISE  The number of people in Idaho receiving their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine has fallen to its lowest level since winter, when vaccines were limited to only certain groups of Idahoans.

The states coronavirus vaccine dashboard shows that Idahos uptake peaked earlier this spring, when health care providers were vaccinating 9,000 to 11,000 Idahoans per day in March and April.

That number fell to about 2,000 to 3,000 per day and has stayed there since mid-May.

As the traditional school year comes to a close, over the next couple of weeks, it remains our goal that schools can return to normal operations in the fall, said Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Director Dave Jeppesen at a media briefing Tuesday.

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We encourage parents to strongly consider choosing to vaccinate your children 12 years and older, he said. Doing so before school starts in the fall will greatly increase the chances that school can return to normal.
A hopeful construction date was originally set for 2020, but things have not moved along quite as quickly as anticipated.

Immediately, when we get enough money to start the project, were going to start, Momen said.

Every year in September, for two weeks, the foundation of this building is going to finance an international sculpture and art festival, Momen said. Every year, 15 days in September, world artists doing shows. That is the reason Im building it. Can you imagine the artists coming with their sculptures and paintings from around the world and experiencing the desert? Ive walked so much around this desert. I know how it is.

Perhaps this will be Utahs equivalent of Burning Man, a lucrative nonprofit held each year in the Black Rock Desert of Nevada?

The Spiral JettyThe Spiral Jetty is in another obscure location, Rozel Point in the Great Salt Lake. The journey involves highway travel, two-lane roads and a gravel road. The trip will take about two and a half hours from Salt Lake City.
But the increase in migration at the border has become a significant political headache for Harris and Biden. Republicans accuse them of inaction on what they say is a crisis created in part by the presidents decision to halt construction of the U.S.-Mexico border wall and end some restrictions on asylum-seekers.

April was the second-busiest month on record for unaccompanied children encountered at the border, following Marchs all-time high, and the Border Patrols total encounters in April were up 3% from March, marking the highest level since April 2000. The April encounters are not directly comparable because most of those stopped were quickly expelled from the United States under federal pandemic-related powers that deny rights to seek asylum and because being expelled carries no legal penalty, many try to cross multiple times.
Were open, were not making a profit, our sales are less than half of what they used to be," said Bryanne Hoeg, manager of the Portland, Oregon-based Powell's Books, during an online panel this week at the inaugural U.S. Book Show. "We cant have in-store events. We have to ask everyone to use a mask and no, we dont have a bathroom.

Bookstores are trying to reinvent themselves, and so is the American Booksellers Association  starting with what it means to be a bookstore and how one becomes an association member.

In 2019, the ABA had more than 1,800 members (and more than 2,500 store locations), a substantial increase from a decade before when core membership had fallen to just over 1,400  after once exceeding 5,000  in face of competition from Amazon and from such physical bookstore chains as Barnes & Noble and Borders. The demise of Borders and the unexpectedly limited appeal of e-books helped the independents grow in recent years.

Hill said the current membership numbers, which include nearly 2,100 locations, are smaller than in 2019 because the association has tightened its rules. Before 2020, essentially any store that happened to offer books could be an ABA member. Now, only businesses who primarily sell books (over 50% of inventory) are eligible, according to the association's website.
Last years event was canceled due to the pandemic, so Toft decided to take on organizing it this year, contacting all the studios and gyms asking if they wanted to participate.

Some places said they wanted to be a part, but we are just going to do free classes or bring a friend for free for that week, Toft said. Some said they would send a teacher over and well do these little two days for half-hour classes.

Why do yoga?

Strength, stability, balance, flexibility and the calming effects from breathing during yoga all contribute to why yoga is good for the body, Toft said.

Its good for your brain because you are remembering things you are doing, it gets your left brain/right brain moving, and its good for your spirit or your soul, she said. Its also a benefit to any other exercise you are doing, whether you are a runner it helps loosen your quadriceps up (for example).

The Twin Falls yoga community has been supportive and non-judgmental, Toft said as well. She thinks the attitudes yogis have here are pure and encouraging toward one another.
The county has no say so in the city reverting to a town, Bryant said. The citizens of Henry County and especially the citizens of the city need to stand up now and say, Look, either Im for this or Im not for this.

Then Bryant turned to a subject that might be a hot button for many otherwise apathetic city residents: Martinsville High School.

Lets go back, in 2000 I think it was, when they closed Laurel Park [High School] and Fieldale-Collinsville [High School], Bryant said. They closed them because they lacked funding and so forth.

I think its like 480 [students] in the Martinsville City [High School], and to keep a huge high school like that open, its not feasible. We can outsource those students to Bassett High School and Magna Vista [High School] and have the space for them.

No decisions

Bryant admitted the Board of Supervisors has no direct authority over the schools, but the board does provide school funding.

Its up to Ms. [Sandy] Strayer, the school superintendent, and her members of the board to see if they want to keep the [Martinsville] high school open or keep the building and use the building for something else.
The newest version of the CARES Act is the American Rescue Plan Act, with $350 billion in additional funding for state and local governments.

Henry County Administrator Tim Hall told the Board of Supervisors at a regular meeting on Tuesday that $9.8 million would come to Henry County but that independent cities were the favored recipients in this round of funding.

City Manager Leon Towarnicki confirmed Halls comment when he told City Council on Tuesday night that Martinsville would receive between $13 and $14 million.

Ironically, its Martinsvilles status as an independent city that qualifies it for additional funding. Martinsville is pursuing reversion in order to change its status to a town.

The money will be paid in two installments, with plans in place of how to spend it by 2024. All dollars must be spent by 2026.

Council member Danny Turner said he hoped the money would be applied to lower the tax rates to residents and business owners in the city.

I dont think thats going to happen, Towarnicki said. If something happens and the pandemic comes back, then some of this funding may need to be used for business assistance and utility assistance.
"You know, we can look back in a time and history where people were told to wear a gold star. And they were definitely treated like second-class citizens, so much so that they were put in trains and taken to gas chambers in Nazi Germany," Greene said on the podcast. "This is exactly the type of abuse that Nancy Pelosi is talking about."

After her remarks sparked a firestorm of online criticism, Greene leaned in to the comparison further.

On Tuesday, she tweeted out a news story about a grocery store chain that plans to allow vaccinated employees to go maskless. Those who do would have a logo on their nametags indicating they had been vaccinated.

"Vaccinated employees get a vaccination logo just like the Nazi's forced Jewish people to wear a gold star," Greene tweeted.

Pelosi, who previously suggested that Greene could face an ethics inquiry, called her comments "so beyond reprehensible" that they should have "no place in our country." Democratic Illinois Rep. Brad Schneider proposed censuring Greene.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., called Greene's comments one of her "frequent outbursts that are absolutely outrageous and reprehensible." Still, he said any disciplinary action against her would have to come from the House.
Students, faculty and staff at Virginias community colleges will not be required to be vaccinated to be on campus this fall, the state system announced Tuesday.

Glenn DuBois, the chancellor of Virginias Community Colleges, said the decision was made in consultation with the 23 community colleges. People who are fully vaccinated will not have to wear a mask while on campus, which is in accordance with the most recent guidance from the state and CDC.

DuBois said that colleges are encouraging students, faculty and staff to be vaccinated, but the lack of residence halls and public health infrastructure at community colleges factored into the decision to not mandate coronavirus vaccines.

And given our colleges offerings of short-term training and credentialing programs, mandating proof of vaccination may create an impractical and unintended barrier to student enrollment, thus diminishing our ability to deliver our mission at this critical time, DuBois said in a statement.

With the fall semester nearing, institutions of higher learning are making decisions about whether to require people to be vaccinated to work or to learn at campuses.
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Analysis using a national medical database revealed that the cumulative incidence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in children born in 2009-2014 was 2.75% by the age of five. A research group led by Associate Professor Daimei Sasayama and Professor Hideo Honda of the Department of Child and Adolescent Development Psychiatry, Shinshu University School of Medicine, used a national medical database to analyze autism spectrum disorders in Japan. It was reported that the cumulative incidence showed an increasing trend for each year of birth, and that there were regional differences.

This cumulative incidence of ASD is the highest in the world based on medical diagnosis, suggesting high diagnostic sensitivity in Japan. The proportion of people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders has increased globally over the last 20 years, with a 2014 US survey reporting a prevalence of 1.68% in 8-year-olds. In addition, a regional cohort study of children's mental development and psychiatry at Shinshu University School of Medicine reported that 3.1% of children had been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders by school age. Improving screening accuracy is one of the main reasons why more and more people are being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. In order to investigate the actual condition of diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder in Japan, the group investigated the cumulative incidence of autism spectrum disorder nationwide and the cumulative incidence by prefecture using National Database (NDB), which aggregates medical data from all over the country.

For children born from 2009-2016 and diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder between 2009 and 2019, information on gender, year and age at the time of diagnosis, and the prefecture where the diagnosis was made were extracted from NDB. Cumulative incidence was calculated by dividing the number of diagnoses by the number of births each year.

Of the children born from 2009-2016, 313,353 (236,386 boys, 76,967 girls) were diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder between 2009 and 2019. The lifetime cumulative incidence of autism spectrum disorders at age 5 in children born between 2009 and 2014 was 2.75%. The cumulative incidence tended to increase with each year of birth. By prefecture, the cumulative lifetime incidence of autism spectrum disorders at age 5 ranged from 0.9-7.9% (median 2.4%).

This study published in the journal JAMA Network Open reported that the cumulative incidence of autism spectrum disorders in Japan is high worldwide. It is thought that the nationwide increasing trend is influenced by the recent increase in awareness of autism spectrum disorders. On the other hand, since there are large regional differences in the incidence rate, it is possible that factors such as differences in access to medical care and support also affect the incidence rate. The results of this study show that there is an increasing need to build a support system for autism spectrum disorders. Accurately capturing changes in the frequency of autism spectrum disorders is important both for the realization of an effective support system and for studying the risk factors and etiology of autism spectrum disorders. The research group will continue to investigate trends in the incidence of autism spectrum disorders in Japan and around the world.

Explore further Autism spectrum disorders linked with excess weight gain in children

More information: Daimei Sasayama et al, Trends in Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnoses in Japan, 2009 to 2019, JAMA Network Open (2021). Journal information: JAMA Network Open Daimei Sasayama et al, Trends in Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnoses in Japan, 2009 to 2019,(2021). DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.9234

Provided by Shinshu University
In this May 13, 2021 file photo, President Joe Biden speaks in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington. Biden is asking U.S. intelligence agencies to "redouble" their efforts to investigate the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. After months of minimizing the possibility that the coronavirus emerged from a lab accident, the administration is responding to both U.S. and world pressure for China to be more open about the outbreak. Biden said Wednesday there is insufficient evidence to conclude "whether it emerged from human contact with an infected animal or from a laboratory accident." Credit: AP Photo/Evan Vucci

President Joe Biden ordered U.S. intelligence officials to "redouble" their efforts to investigate the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, including any possibility the trail might lead to a Chinese laboratory.

After months of minimizing that possibility as a fringe theory, the Biden administration is joining worldwide pressure for China to be more open about the outbreak, aiming to head off GOP complaints the president has not been tough enough as well as to use the opportunity to press China on alleged obstruction.

Biden on Wednesday asked U.S. intelligence agencies to report back within 90 days. He directed U.S. national laboratories to assist with the investigation and the intelligence community to prepare a list of specific queries for the Chinese government. He called on China to cooperate with international probes into the origins of the pandemic.

Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, have promoted the theory that the virus emerged from a laboratory accident rather than naturally through human contact with an infected animal in Wuhan, China.

Biden in a statement said the majority of the intelligence community had "coalesced" around those two scenarios but "do not believe there is sufficient information to assess one to be more likely than the other." He revealed that two agencies lean toward the animal link and "one leans more toward" the lab theory, "each with low or moderate confidence."

"The United States will also keep working with like-minded partners around the world to press China to participate in a full, transparent, evidence-based international investigation and to provide access to all relevant data and evidence," said Biden.

His statement came after weeks of the administration endeavoring to avoid public discussion of the lab leak theory and privately suggesting it was farfetched.

In another sign of shifting attitudes, the Senate approved two Wuhan lab-related amendments without opposition, attaching them to a largely unrelated bill to increase U.S. investments in innovation.

One of the amendments, from Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., would block U.S. funding of Chinese "gain of function" research on enhancing the severity or transmissibility of a virus. Paul has been critical of Dr. Anthony Fauci, the government's top infectious-disease expert, and aggressively questioned him at a recent Senate hearing over the work in China. The other amendment was from GOP Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa and it would prevent any funding to the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

Both were approved without roll call votes as part of the broader bill that is still under debate in the Senate.

As for the origin of pandemic, Fauci, a White House coronavirus adviser, said Wednesday that he and most others in the scientific community "believe that the most likely scenario is that this was a natural occurrence, but no one knows that 100% for sure."

"And since there's a lot of concern, a lot of speculation and since no one absolutely knows that, I believe we do need the kind of investigation where there's open transparency and all the information that's available, to be made available, to scrutinize," Fauci said at a Senate hearing.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Tuesday that the White House supports a new World Health Organization investigation in China, but she added that an effective probe "would require China finally stepping up and allowing access needed to determine the origins."

Biden still held out the possibility that a firm conclusion may never be reached, given the Chinese government's refusal to fully cooperate with international investigations.

"The failure to get our inspectors on the ground in those early months will always hamper any investigation into the origin of COVID-19," he said.

The Chinese Embassy in Washington, without mentioning the Biden order, accused unnamed political forces of being fixated on a blame game while ignoring the urgent need to combat the pandemic.

"Smear campaign and blame shifting are making a comeback, and the conspiracy theory of 'lab leak' is resurfacing," the embassy said in a statement posted Wednesday on its website.

Administration officials continue to harbor strong doubts about the lab leak theory. Rather, they view China's refusal to cooperate in the investigationparticularly on something of such magnitudeas emblematic of other irresponsible actions on the world stage.

Privately, administration officials say the end result, if ever known, won't change anything, but note China's stonewalling is now on display for the world to see.

The State Department, which ended one Trump-era probe into the Chinese lab theory this spring, said it was continuing to cooperate with other government agencies and pressed China to cooperate with the world.

"China's position that their part in this investigation is complete is disappointing and at odds with the rest of the international community that is working collaboratively across the board to bring an end to this pandemic and improve global health security," said spokesman Ned Price.

Research into the origins of the virus is critically important, said Arinjay Banerjee, a virologist at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization in Saskatchewan, Canada, because, "If you don't know where it came from, how are you going to stop it from spreading it again?"

"The great probability is still that this virus came from a wildlife reservoir," he said, pointing to the fact that spillover events  when viruses jump from animals to humans  are common in nature, and that scientists already know of two similar beta coronaviruses that evolved in bats and caused epidemics when humans were infected, SARS1 and MERS. "The evidence we so far have suggests that this virus came from wildlife," he said

However, the case is not completely closed. "There are probabilities, and there are possibilities," said Banerjee. "Because nobody has identified a virus that's 100% identical to SARS-CoV-2 in any animal, there is still room for researchers to ask about other possibilities."

Andy Slavitt, Biden's senior adviser for the coronavirus, said Tuesday that the world needs to "get to the bottom ... whatever the answer may be."

"We need a completely transparent process from China; we need the WHO to assist in that matter,"" Slavitt said. "We don't feel like we have that now."

Explore further COVID lab origin theory gains traction in United States

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
People in Chile who have been vaccinated and are fully immunized against the coronavirus could from Wednesday obtain a pass to move about more freely, a move criticized by health professionals.

The pass, which can be downloaded on a person's mobile phone two weeks after receiving their second shot, gives the bearer permission to move about freely in cities under lockdown to go to the supermarket, pharmacy, or for open air exercise.

Those without permits, by comparison, have to print out a permission form every time they want to leave the house, which is allowed for essential reasons only.

Pass holders can also travel between cities and towns not under lockdown.

Face masks remain compulsory for everyone, indoors and out, and the pass will not be valid during the daily 10.00 pm-to-5.00 am curfew. It also does not replace the permission people need to go back to work, the government has said.

The measure came into force as Chile passed the 50-percent mark of fully vaccinated adultsover 7.7 million to date out a 15.2 million target population.

The country has three vaccines in its arsenal, with over 17 million doses of CoronaVac administered to date, 3.36 million of Pfizer-BioNTech, and nearly 500,000 of Oxford-AstraZeneca.

China's CoronaVac has the lowest proven efficacy of the three, with a Chile study showing in April it was 67 percent effective at preventing symptomatic Covid-19 and 80 percent effective at preventing death.

The country's Medical College and nine medical associations are not in favor of the vaccine pass given the persistently high infection rate.

"Any increase in mobility will augment infections. This new permit can lead to confusion and a false sense of security," they said in a joint statement.

Health Minister Enrique Paris defended the measure as a "reward" for those who got vaccinated.

Some 1.3 million people in Chile have been infected with the coronavirus, and over 28,600 have died. The country has one of the highest vaccine rates in the region and the world.

Neighbor Argentina, meanwhile, received over a million doses of AstraZeneca and Sputnik V vaccines Wednesday as it battles its worst phase of the pandemic to date.

The country of 45 million, due to host the Copa America in three weeks' time, has so far given one vaccine dose to 8.9 million people and two doses to 2.5 million.

It has one of the highest infection rates in the region, and on Wednesday registered more than 35,300 cases and 532 deaths in 24 hours, bringing the toll to over 75,500.

 2021 AFP
Fig. 1 Schematic of the Cas9 RNP delivery system. (A) Lipidoid nanoparticle (LNP)encapsulated Cas9 RNP delivery system. PCL nanofibril (NF) that mimic the bone tissue environment were coated with mesenchymal stem cell membrane (MSCM) and were loaded with CXCL12 cytokine and LNP-coated Cas9 RNP. (B) The LNP-Cas9 RNP/MSCM-NF/CXCL12 complex can be injected into the bone marrow cavity to induce chemoattraction of leukemia blasts or LSCs, to more effectively deliver the gene editing cargo to these cells.

The latest method under investigation to attack leukemia is a bit like exterminating cockroaches: It's a three-step process using cutting-edge technology to bait, trap, and kill leukemia cells at their root.

A paper published in Sciences Advances, led by Wilmot Cancer Institute researchers, describes the process and the significance for patients who face acute myeloid leukemia (AML), an aggressive type of blood cancer in which only 28 percent of people survive five years.

Although the research is earlyit has only been tested in mice and in human cell culturesit's quite different from standard methods such as chemotherapy because it allows scientists to deliver treatment that can correct faulty genes that fuel the cancer, said Tzu-Chieh (Kate) Ho, Ph.D., the paper's first author and a research assistant professor in Hematology/Oncology at Wilmot.

Her mentor, Michael Becker, M.D., dean's professor of Hematology/Oncology at Wilmot, is co-corresponding author.

Ho's system to reach the root of leukemia uses CRISPR technology, which can edit genes inside a cell. In the article, she describes a novel way of baiting leukemia stem cells out of hiding, and then destroying them with a protein-RNA complex that enters the nucleus of the cancer cells and edits them so that they cannot survive.

Being able to target leukemia stem cells is important; the disease is known to relapse even after a long remission, as stem cells awaken from dormancy. For this reason, modern science is geared toward using the most advanced materials to seek and directly wipe out the stem cell population.

When Ho was conducting research toward her doctorate degree at the University of Rochester Medical Center several years ago, she discovered an important protein, IL 1RAP, on the surface of leukemia-initiating cells that could be a target for anti-cancer drugs.

Ho went on to Memorial Sloan Kettering and Columbia University in New York, to develop innovative mouse models and biomedical engineering materials that can deliver drugs more efficiently and directly to protein targets such as IL 1RAP. A year ago, she returned to Wilmot to work in Becker's lab, which has been studying malignant leukemia stem cell populations for several years.

"We are grateful to have Dr. Ho and look forward to more exciting developments in the near future," Becker said.

Clinical trials in patients are still a couple of years away. Researchers are also developing relationships with drug companies to find agents that can target the IL 1RAP protein.

Explore further As leukemia evolves, stem cells hold keys to newer therapies

More information: Tzu-Chieh Ho et al, Scaffold-mediated CRISPR-Cas9 delivery system for acute myeloid leukemia therapy, Science Advances (2021). Journal information: Science Advances Tzu-Chieh Ho et al, Scaffold-mediated CRISPR-Cas9 delivery system for acute myeloid leukemia therapy,(2021). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abg3217
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

New research from Massey University highlights more than a third (37 percent) of older people who live in the community are at risk of malnutrition. Those at risk were likely to experience more social and emotional loneliness and have fewer social supports than those not at nutritional risk.

Researchers have identified a need for culturally appropriate interventions to provide the opportunity for older adults to eat with others, especially those living alone.

The research, recently published in the Australasian Journal on Ageing, was a cross-sectional analysis from the Health, Work and Retirement longitudinal studya government-funded study of the determinants of health ageing in older New Zealanders and one of the largest studies to date to report malnutrition risk.

The study involved 2914 participants, (1312 men and 1602 women), with an age range of 49-87 years. There were 749 Maori and 2165 non-Maori. Half (50 percent) of Maori, and a third (33 percent) of non-Maori were at nutrition risk and being unpartnered was an independent risk factor for both.

Older adults living in New Zealand represent the highest percentage of one-person households, with just under a third living alone.

Lead researcher Professor Carol Wham, from Massey's School of Sport, Exercise and Nutrition, says older adults who are socially isolated, live alone, or are unpartnered have been shown to have poorer food intake, and may be undernourished.

"Eating is a social eventa lack of companionship to share meals may lead to a decrease in food intake and nutritional quality of meals, leading to increased nutrition risk," she says.

For non-Maori, emotional loneliness, which describes an individual's quality of personal relationships, was independently associated with nutrition risk.

"While emotional loneliness may not be caused by being alone, it may contribute to the absence of an attachment figure in one's life. For Maori, the lack of an association between emotional loneliness and nutrition risk may be related to the positive aspects of Maoritanga [Maori culture], which places importance on whanau [family] and hapu [community] but also looks to elders for guidance," Professor Wham says.

Kaumatua (respected elders) are valuable to younger generations, providing wisdom and teaching, which allows them to lead fruitful lives in old age.

"This positive experience however is not shared by non-Maori, who may not have someone to turn to, or experience relationships that are meaningful. Although non-Maori individuals may have a support system in the form of a traditional nuclear family, the style may reduce the opportunities for emotional support and impact the importance of sharing food and meals," Professor Wham says.

There is an opportunity to screen vulnerable older adults for nutrition risk in primary care, she adds. "Screening is a cost-effective and simple procedure, which may enable timely nutrition intervention to improve nutrition status and maintain independence with ageing. There are also a range of social policy measures which could reduce barriers to healthy eating for older New Zealandersencouraging older adults to share meals with each other for example.

"These findings support the New Zealand Food and Nutrition Guidelines for Healthy Older People in their recommendation 'to take opportunities to eat with other people'. Those unpartnered are a key identifiable group who would benefit from strategies that encourage older adults to eat with others," Professor Wham says.

Explore further Understanding malnutrition in vulnerable older New Zealanders

More information: Melaney T. Tkatch et al, Nutrition risk prevalence and associated health and social risk factors in Maori and nonMaori: Results from the New Zealand Health, Work and Retirement Study, Australasian Journal on Ageing (2021). Melaney T. Tkatch et al, Nutrition risk prevalence and associated health and social risk factors in Maori and nonMaori: Results from the New Zealand Health, Work and Retirement Study,(2021). DOI: 10.1111/ajag.12952
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

The CDC says that fully vaccinated individuals can resume many day-to-day activities without a mask, leading many states and businesses to rescind year-long mask mandates. The news brought renewed attention to the idea of vaccine certificates, sometimes referred to as "passports," a digital version of a person's COVID-19 vaccination card that provides an easy way to prove vaccination.

While countries like Israel and Denmark are widely using digital COVID-19 vaccination and negative-test certificates, the U.S. has no plans for a federal vaccine mandate or verification system. This has left individual states and businesses to forge their own paths, with several states rejecting the idea outright while others, like Hawaii and New York, are actively developing their own legislation and digital vaccine certification platforms.

In light of reduced restrictions for those who are fully vaccinatedcurrently 39% of the U.S. population, although 49% have received the first of a two-dose serieswill vaccine certificates become part of everyday life? What are the implications for requiring proof of vaccination to reengage with certain sectors of the economy? Penn Today spoke with experts in public health law and medical ethics to understand the potential role of vaccine certifications in the next phase of the pandemic.

Proving one's vaccination status is not, by definition, a 'passport'

Both public health law expert Eric Feldman and medical ethicist Emily Largent dislike the term "passport" when talking about platforms designed to prove one's vaccination status, such as New York's Excelsior pass. These types of systems are only designed to provide ease of entry into any places that require proof of vaccination and don't contain any other personal information akin to a government-issued ID.

"My understanding is that if you have to show that you've been vaccinated, it's an easy way to do that if you live in New York," says Feldman about the Excelsior pass. "If you don't live in New York, you'd have to have to bring your vaccination card, for example."

States' and businesses' rights and vaccine certificates

The idea of a vaccine being required to do something, such as going to school, is not a new concept, Feldman says. In addition, businesses are free to choose who they serve as long as they are not denying service to a constitutionally-protected group of people.

"We take for granted what private organizations can limit'no shoes, no shirt, no service' is not unusual," he says. "And while it's more personal and significant to get a vaccine than to put on shoes, it falls under the same legal category because it's not constitutionally protected."

What is new and uncertain, he says, is how the nature of COVID-19 vaccine approvals, which are currently only approved under an emergency use authorization (EUA), might impact litigation. Because of this, Feldman does not anticipate that any individual states, for example, will mandate that its residents get the COVID-19 vaccine. "The question of whether or not a state could mandate a COVID-19 vaccine that's been approved under an EUA but has not received final approval from the FDA is, from a legal perspective, totally novel," he says.

Another potential area of litigation could involve vaccine exemptions. "Medical exemptions are relatively straight-forward, but religious exemptions raise difficult questions. If there's a vaccine certification requirement, do we allow people to exempt themselves from vaccination based on their religious beliefs? How do we know if those beliefs are sincerely held or just a pretext for avoiding vaccination? Not providing a religious exemption may be good public health policy, but it is also likely to result in litigation that could end up in the Supreme Court," says Feldman.

Vaccine certifications and questions around ethics, equity, and privacy

Largent, whose research includes the ethics of vaccine allocation and the public acceptability of mandates, says that finding safe and secure ways to document vaccination is both technically and ethically challenging. This is true whether COVID-19 vaccines are mandated broadly or are only required for certain businesses or venues.

She adds that any digital vaccine certificate system also has to take into account data privacy, security, how personal health data is used, and equity, especially since all children younger than 12 are not yet eligible for any vaccines. "We also have to think about fairness in terms of how we might provide medical exemption certifications for people who cannot be vaccinated so that they can get where they might need or want to go, and there are open questions around what we do for people with religious or philosophical objections," says Largent.

An indirect incentive for getting vaccinated

While those who are vaccinated can already access perks like free donuts or beer, Largent says that, if other activities that people are interested in require getting vaccinated, that could create a strong incentive for those who haven't done so yet to get vaccinated.

The new CDC guidelines themselves might also be a source of motivation, depending on how businesses decide to implement them. "If robust vaccine tracking systems are adopted, and people find they are being kept out of places they want to gorestaurants, concerts, museumsthat might be an incentive for some people to get vaccinated," says Largent.

The future of a widespread vaccine certification rollout is uncertain

The CDC's new guidelines brought vaccine certification back into the spotlight, and Feldman says that some businesses might institute and require proof of vaccination for entering an establishment without masks or for not social distancing. But before that announcement, several states already had no mask mandates, so it's possible that the guidelines might not have any substantial impact on the coming months in terms of how people can reengage with various sectors of the economy.

"The CDC guidance is significant, but it does not represent an overnight change in policy or practice. Instead, it makes clear the benefit of vaccination to those who are vaccinated, will incentivize some people who are not vaccinated to get vaccinated, and signals what the CDC and everyone else hopes is a slow return to pre-pandemic levels of social and economic interaction," says Feldman.

Largent agrees that the new guidelines could motivate some to get vaccinated, but without a robust tracking system in place it also allows the guidance to be exploited by those who want to neither wear masks nor get vaccinated. "In the absence of proof of vaccination, we will largely be reliant on individuals to be truthful about their vaccine status and responsible in their masking. Unfortunately, we have evidence from throughout the pandemic that people won't always act in the best interests of others," she says.

As with previous public health challenges, societal change often requires a combination of both legal and cultural shifts, says Feldman. He cites changes around smoking in bars and restaurants, a gradual evolution from allowing smoking by default to being banned indoors once the impacts of secondhand smoke were clear. With COVID-19, figuring out how to balance individual freedoms with measures that keep others safe is also likely to take time.

"Any time we have one of those shifts, we need to come to an agreement as to what constitutes an appropriate behavior," says Feldman. "It's a mix of legal and cultural, but the huge issue is what constitutes a shared sense of public appropriateness and what is it we all agree we should be doing both for our own good and others."
Patients facing relatively simple outpatient surgeries are nonetheless being told to undergo a number of preoperative tests that just aren't necessary, a new study reports.

More than half of a group of patients facing low-risk outpatient surgery received one or more testsblood work, urinalysis, an electrocardiogram (EKG), a chest X-rayprior to their operation.

One-third of patients underwent at least two tests, and roughly 1 in 7 patients had three or more tests before their simple surgery, said lead researcher Dr. Nicholas Berlin, a surgeon and health policy expert at the University of Michigan Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation.

These tests are still being requested even though "we've known for almost a decade that there's pretty broad consensus that preoperative testing before low-risk surgery provides no benefit to patients," Berlin said. "We have no reason to believe that's improving patient outcomes. It's just unnecessary waste in our health care system."

Wasteful care that doesn't contribute to the patient's well-being accounts for an estimated $75 billion to $100 billion of unnecessary health care expenditures in the United States each year, Berlin said.

But the researchers don't think hospitals are ordering these tests to make a quick buck.

The most common unnecessary tests were an EKG or blood work to either check for blood cell counts or provide a basic metabolic panel for the patient, the study found. Two more expensive tests, cardiac stress and lung function testing, were relatively uncommon among patients slated for easy surgeries.

"The tests we're looking at individually are not that expensive," Berlin said.

Instead, these tests are likely being performed out of habit, an overabundance of care, or to cover the hospital in case of a lawsuit, said Dr. Stephen Esper, an anesthesiologist with the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and medical director of the UPMC Centers for Perioperative Care.

"It is not an attempt for any other gain by the physician's office," said Esper, who wasn't part of the study. "The intention is to do right by the patient."

Wide variability

Many professional medical societies have issued guidelines urging hospitals and doctors to not order unnecessary tests, which also unnecessarily expose the patient to potential harm, Berlin said.

To see if these guidelines have had any effect, Berlin and his colleagues reviewed insurance claim data from a Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan-funded statewide collaborative quality initiative. They published their findings recently in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine.

The researchers looked at three specific outpatient surgeries that shouldn't require any tests prior to the procedurelumpectomy to remove abnormal tissue from a breast, keyhole surgery to remove the gallbladder, and keyhole surgery to repair a hernia.

Even though the surgeries were so simple that patients did not need to be admitted to the hospital, more than half still had to undergo at least one unnecessary test, researchers found.

"At some hospitals, testing was done in only 20% to 30% of patients, which may suggest that there's been some improvement over time and some of the hospitals are implementing strategies to reduce unnecessary testing," Berlin said. "But in other hospitals it's happening over 80% of the time, so you see this wide variability between hospitals in how often testing is performed."

The problem is that these tests add up over time, and can cause patients inconvenience and potential harm if an abnormal result on one test leads to more follow-up testing, Berlin and Esper said.

"We know that in other studies of patients having cataract surgery, even what seems to be an inexpensive test like an EKG on average leads to these downstream cascades of care that on average will cost about $1,300 per patient," Berlin said.

These preoperative tests "are really a marker for other things that happen that are unnecessary as well," Berlin said. "They can trigger a series of events."

Confusion over ordering

Why are these tests still being ordered, then?

It might be out of habit for the surgeon or the anesthesiologist, Esper said, or because the lack of preoperative testing might come up in a malpractice suit, Esper said.

There also remains a lot of confusion about which tests are required for which procedure by which doctor or insurer or hospital, Berlin said.

"There's a web of factors that are at play here, including things like confusion about who wants tests and the inability to stop ordering tests because you think it's something wanted by someone else," Berlin said.

Inertia is another potential factor.

"People acknowledge that these tests are unnecessary but then they question, is it really worth reducing it if the overall impact is so much less than the individual surgery? Surgeons might say, my surgery is much more expensive and impactful than this test, so why should we focus on a test?" Berlin said.

Since guidelines are not having a major impact, cutting back on these tests might come down to making it a dollars-and-cents proposition, Berlin said.

Decreasing insurance reimbursement for these tests might prompt health care providers to order them less often, Berlin said. On the other side, increasing cost-sharing for patients might cause them to question whether they really need these tests before surgery.

"These unnecessary preoperative tests are a prime example of the underlying flaws with how [the] U.S. health care payment is structured, which is largely based on fee-for-service payment where a provider is reimbursed for each service they deliver, rather than being reimbursed based on keeping their patients healthy," said Sophia Tripoli, director of health care innovations for Families U.S., a nonprofit health care consumer advocacy group.

"The result of fee-for-service payment not only drives up costs for the entire health care system and for consumers, but also incentivizes the relationship between providers and patients to be a business transaction rather than incentivizing providers to build relationships with their patients and appropriately address the full spectrum of their patients' health needs," Tripoli said.

There's one thing for certain, Esper addedpatients love it when they're told they don't need extra tests done before a surgical procedure.

"They're happy, because they don't have to get stuck by a needle, they don't have to get irradiated, they don't have to take off their shirt and go through all that," Esper said.

Explore further Routine testing before surgery remains common despite low value

More information: The U.S. National Institutes of Health has more about Journal information: JAMA Internal Medicine The U.S. National Institutes of Health has more about preoperative tests

Copyright  2021 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Beyond addressing climate change, USC alumnus John Whysner says reducing air pollution would have immediate health benefits. Credit: Richard Borge/The iSpot

We're surrounded by manmade chemicals, from bits of dust in the air we breathe to the fabrics we wear. Not all are dangerous, though. Toxicologists like John Whysner, Ph.D. have the difficult task of determining which ones might be. The author of The Alchemy of Disease: How Chemicals and Toxins Cause Cancer and Other Illnesses got his start in toxicology studying the venom of poisonous snails at USC, home of a leading center for developing anti-venom in the 1950s. The Keck School of Medicine of USC graduate talks with writer Sarah Nightingale about the science behind harmful chemicals and fossil fuels' effects on human health.

As consumers, we often hear that certain chemicals are toxic or cause cancer. How do toxicologists determine if that's true?

This is a complicated process that involves studying people who have been exposed to a certain chemical, as well as animal studies and other laboratory tests. There may be a simple relationship, such as chemical X causes disease Y, or it may be more complex. A chemical can cause several types of toxic effects depending on the dose and the extent and circumstances of the exposure.

A lot of our knowledge comes from studying people who have been exposed to high levels of harmful chemicals through their work. For example, we know from occupational health studies that asbestos exposure causes a type of cancer called mesothelioma and that vinyl chloride, used to manufacture PVC plastics, causes liver cancer.

Even more of what we know comes from animal studies that test vast numbers of chemicals used as pharmaceuticals or food additives and in household products. Unfortunately, animal models are not necessarily good predictors of chemical-induced diseases in humans, especially when it comes to cancer and other complex, genetically driven diseases. What happens is that some chemicals are mislabeled as toxic to humans when they aren't, and more worryingly, we are missing some that are. The lack of good toxicity models is the biggest problem facing the field.

The good news is that toxicologists have made great discoveries concerning the health effects of chemicals we encounter in our daily lives, and the application of this knowledge for public health benefits has been successful in many areas.

About 7 million people die prematurely each year from polluted air. Why is that still happening?

When it comes to the effects of air pollution, the application of our knowledge has been inadequate. The production and use of fossil fuels, for example, still exposes workers to disease-causing agents and still results in air pollution that leads to cancer, stroke, heart and lung disease. In this case, the problem is a lack of political motivation to control exposure to these chemicals rather than a lack of knowledge.

Have the health risks of fossil fuels been overshadowed by the conversation on climate change?

Yes. The health problems associated with burning fossil fuels, which are immediate and happen on a personal level, share a common cause with global climate change. As a toxicologist, I think we should place the emphasis for cleaning up our air on the immediate health benefits. That would also solve the global warming problem.

What is your connection to USC?

When I was a senior at L.A. High School, my physics teacher encouraged me to apply for a National Science Foundation internship. Through that program, I spent a summer doing research with Dr. Paul Saunders, an associate dean in USC's medical school. After I graduated high school, I attended Johns Hopkins University in Maryland, but each summer I returned to L.A. and worked in Dr. Saunders' lab doing research on a venomous sea creature called the cone snail.

Dr. Saunders was a mentor to me, and he encouraged me to apply for medical school at USC. I applied for the MD/Ph.D. program, where I completed graduate research in biochemistry in Professor Boyd Harding's lab and received incredible experience at L.A. County+USC Medical Center. My USC education paved the way for a residency at Jacobi Hospital in the Bronx, my career as a toxicologist and a professorship at Columbia University.

Who should read your new book?

"The Alchemy of Disease" was published in June 2020 by Columbia University Press. It summarizes what we know about disease-causing substances and how those discoveries were made from a historical perspective. It's not a textbook. Rather, it's a trade science book that's aimed at other scientists as well as anyone with an interest in how exposure to chemicals affects our health. I dedicated the book to my USC mentor, Dr. Paul Saunders.

More information: How Chemicals and Toxins Cause Cancer and Other Illnesses. How Chemicals and Toxins Cause Cancer and Other Illnesses. cup.columbia.edu/book/the-alch  isease/9780231191661
A medical worker shows a person the packaging for a Sinopharm vaccine at a vaccination facility in Beijing on Jan. 15, 2021. Two vaccines made by China's Sinopharm appear to be safe and effective against COVID-19, according to a study published in a medical journal. Scientists have been waiting for more details about the two vaccines, even though they already are being used in many countries and one recently won the backing of the World Health Organization. Credit: AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein

Two vaccines made by China's Sinopharm appear safe and effective against COVID-19, according to a study published in a medical journal.

Scientists had been waiting for more details about the two vaccines, even though they already are being used in many countries, and one recently won the backing of the World Health Organization for emergency use.

The report, published online in the Journal of the American Medical Association, concluded the two vaccines are about 73% and 78% effective, as Sinopharm has previously claimed.

Researchers from Sinopharm and its local partners in the Middle East say the trial involved around 40,380 participants with the company's two vaccinesone developed by the Wuhan Institute of Biological Products and the other by the Beijing Institute of Biological Productsand a placebo. The trial was carried out in four countriesBahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Jordan. However, the study provided data for just Bahrain and the UAE.

"There's nothing very surprising. It's consistent with what they have claimed previously, but it does not completely eliminate the doubts about Sinopharm," said Jin Dong-yan, a medical professor at the University of Hong Kong who was not involved with the study.

A medical worker holds a package for a Sinopharm vaccine at a vaccination facility in Beijing on Jan. 15, 2021. Two vaccines made by China's Sinopharm appear to be safe and effective against COVID-19, according to a study published in a medical journal. Scientists have been waiting for more details about the two vaccines, even though they already are being used in many countries and one recently won the backing of the World Health Organization. Credit: AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein

He raised doubts about how protective the vaccine was based on a recent surge of cases in the island nation of Seychelles, which had vaccinated a large majority of its population with the Sinopharm vaccine.

The study, performed mostly in younger men, had little information about the vaccine's effectiveness against severe disease. Some experts also expressed concern at the shortage of female participants, with nearly 85% being male.

"It's important to make sure you have tested it in enough women to be able to start seeing any possible safety concerns," said Ashley St. John, an associate professor at Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore.

A spokesperson for the company did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The vaccines, both of which are made with inactivated viruses, have already been given to millions of people across the world.

A medical worker prepares a dose of Sinopharm vaccine at a vaccination facility in Beijing on Jan. 15, 2021.T wo vaccines made by China's Sinopharm appear to be safe and effective against COVID-19, according to a study published in a medical journal. Scientists have been waiting for more details about the two vaccines, even though they already are being used in many countries and one recently won the backing of the World Health Organization. Credit: AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein

The World Health Organization cleared the Beijing Institute of Biological Products' shot for emergency use in early May, making it the first Chinese vaccine to receive the certification.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in April that China has provided vaccines to more than 100 countries, although it has not identified them. While China has six vaccines in use, the majority of its exports come from two companies: Sinopharm and Sinovac.

More information: Nawal Al Kaabi et al, Effect of 2 Inactivated SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines on Symptomatic COVID-19 Infection in Adults, JAMA (2021). Journal information: Journal of the American Medical Association Nawal Al Kaabi et al, Effect of 2 Inactivated SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines on Symptomatic COVID-19 Infection in Adults,(2021). DOI: 10.1001/jama.2021.8565

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

A lack of transparency in COVID-19 vaccine trials and deals signed between governments and drug companies could undermine the global response to the pandemic, warn researchers at the University of Toronto and Transparency International in a new report.

Published by Transparency International, "For Whose Benefit?" takes an in-depth look at the development and sale of the world's top 20 COVID-19 vaccines, including those developed by Oxford-AstraZeneca, Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna.

The study, supported by a U of T Connaught Global Challenge Award, examined clinical trial data and nearly 200 contracts for vaccine sales up to March 2021, revealing a pattern of poor transparency and a tendency for governments to obscure key details of contracts with drug companies to provide vaccines.

"Transparency in clinical trials is always important, but the tempo of the development process for COVID-19 vaccines has been unprecedented, so there is an even greater need for transparency in the current situation," said Jillian Kohler, a professor at U of T's Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, Dalla Lana School of Public Health and the Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy in the Faculty of Arts & Science.

Kohler also leads the World Health Organization's Collaborating Centre for Governance, Transparency and Accountability in the Pharmaceutical Sector, which is based at U of T.

With recent Gallup polling showing that one third of the world's adult population1.3 billion peopleare unwilling to take a coronavirus vaccine, transparency is vital to build confidence, the researchers say.

They add that clinical trial transparency is the only way to monitor the safety and efficacy of vaccines, and it is a key safeguard against selective reporting of results or manipulation of data. Yet, analysis of the 86 registered clinical trials for the top 20 vaccines revealed:

Results from just 45 percent of these trials were announced

Of this figure, 41 percent provided only top-level results via a press release or press conference, with the full data unavailable for media scrutiny or academic review

Clinical trial protocols were published for just 12 percent of trials. There were no publicly accessible protocols for 88 percent of the trials and no way of knowing the conditions under which they were carried out

"The lack of transparency of many clinical trials combined with the huge financial incentives for producing effective treatments leaves the door wide open for selective reporting of results or outright data manipulation," said Jonathan Cushing, head of Transparency International's global health program.

The report's analysis of 183 contracts for 12 different COVID-19 vaccines revealed:

Only 7 percent of vaccine contracts between developers and governments were published through official channels

Just one contract (0.5 percent) was published without redactions. Most feature entire pages of redactions that obscure information of critical public interest

There are large disparities in the price paid. For the Oxford/Astra-Zeneca vaccine, for example, upper-middle income economies such as South Africa paid an average of 25 percent more per dose than high income economies like the European Union

Cushing said the lack of transparency over the contracts was as disturbing as the poor transparency in the clinical trials.

"Hiding contracts from public view or publishing documents filled with redacted text means we don't know what governments have signed up to," Cushing said. "Given the huge amounts of public money invested in research and development around the world, citizens have a right to know everything about the vaccines their taxes helped to fund."

The researchers make several recommendations that they say would improve transparency, boost public confidence and help secure the long-term success of COVID-19 response:

National governments should adopt and enforce legislation requiring the pre-registration of all clinical trials and the publication of summary results within 12 months of their completion

All governments that have bought vaccines should follow the lead of the United States and publish their contracts

Vaccine developers should publish their clinical trial protocols on a publicly accessible registry, if they have not done so already

Developers should also only use media to announce clinical trial results in tandem with data analysis published in a peer-reviewed medical journal, trial registry or as a pre-print article

"As researchers, we want to have impact in terms of academic reports but also in the real world," Kohler said. "Our report is a roadmap toward better public policy and an informed citizenry, which would serve us well right now and in future global health crises."

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

More information: For Whose Benefit? Transparency in the Development and Procurement of COVID-19 Vaccines. For Whose Benefit? Transparency in the Development and Procurement of COVID-19 Vaccines. ti-health.org/content/for-whos  f-covid-19-vaccines/
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

As the nation takes a day to memorialize its military dead, living military veterans are facing a deadly risk that has nothing to do with war or conflict: the coronavirus.

Different groups and communities have faced different degrees of danger from the pandemic, exemplified by the humanitarian disaster in India and the inequalities in U.S. health outcomes, vaccine distribution problems and outright rejection of vaccines. Veterans have been among the most hard-hit, with heightened health and economic threats from the pandemic. These veterans face homelessness, lack of health care, delays in receiving financial support and even death.

I have spent the past six years studying veterans with substance use and mental health disorders who are in the criminal justice system. This work revealed gaps in health care and financial support for veterans,even though they have the best publicly funded benefits in the country.

Here are eight ways the pandemic continues to threaten veterans.

1. Age and other vulnerabilities

73% of veterans are over 50, and 89% are male.

The largest group served in the Gulf era, were exposed to dust storms, oil fires and burn pits with numerous toxins, and perhaps as a consequence have high rates of asthma and other respiratory illnesses.

The second-largest group served in the Vietnam era, in which 2.8 million veterans were exposed to Agent Orange, a chemical defoliant linked to cancer.

Age and respiratory illnesses are both risk factors for COVID-19 mortality. As of May 13, 2021, 258,078 people under Veterans Administration care have been diagnosed with COVID-19, of whom 11,941 have died.

Reluctance to be vaccinated continues to hamper full vaccination efforts, particularly in rural areas. The Veterans Administration has set up successful vaccine distribution sites that now administer to veterans, their spouses, caregivers and others receiving VA health care. Approximately 2.5 million of 19 million veterans have been vaccinated through the agency.

But demand is dipping from 75,000 appointments a day to 30,000, and President Joe Biden recently decided not to mandate vaccinations in the armed services, where vaccine rates remain low.

2. Benefits unfairly denied or delayed

When a person transitions from active military service to become a veteran, they receive a Certificate of Discharge or Release. This certificate provides information about the circumstances of the discharge or release. It includes characterizations such as "honorable," "other than honorable," "bad conduct" or "dishonorable." These are crucial distinctions because that status determines whether the Veterans Administration will give them benefits.

Research shows that some veterans with discharges that limit their benefits have PTSD symptoms, military sexual trauma or other behaviors related to military stress. Veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan have disproportionately more of these negative discharges than veterans from other eras.

The Veterans Administration frequently and perhaps unlawfully denies benefits to veterans with "other than honorable" discharges.

Many veterans have requested upgrades to their discharge status. There is a significant backlog of these upgrade requests, and the pandemic added to it, further delaying access to health care and other benefits.

3. Diminished access to health care

Dental surgery, routine visits and elective surgeries at Veterans Administration medical centers have been postponed as individuals await the full reopening of offices. Veterans Administration hospitals are notoriously understaffedjust before the pandemic, the agency reported 43,000 vacancies out of more than 400,000 health care staff positions.

The pandemic added to these problems. An Inspector General report from fall 2020 found that 95% of Veterans Administration health centers are missing a key staff member, most commonly medical providers such as psychiatrists, primary care physicians and nurses, but also custodial staff necessary to keep facilities clean and sanitary.

4. Mental health may get worse

An average of 20 veterans die by suicide every day. A national task force is currently addressing this scourge.

The effects of the pandemic on veteran mental health are not yet clear. The VA continues to encourage digital mental health treatment since office visits remain limited. Suicide hotline calls by veterans were up by 12% on March 22, 2020, just a few weeks into the crisis. Recent information from the Department of Defense suggests the already troubling suicide rates have not changed, with Black and Hispanic veterans at higher risk.

5. Complications for homeless veterans and those in the justice system

The latest available data, from prior to the pandemic, documented 107,400 veterans in state or federal prisons, and 181,500 were incarcerated if we also include jails. While many facilities responded to the pandemic by releasing eligible veterans, there is a revolving door between time served and homelessness.

After years of declining rates of homelessness, there was a 0.5% rise in homelessness from 2019 to 2020. Before the pandemic, in January 2020, an estimated 37,252 veterans were homeless on any given night.

Thousands more veterans are under court-supervised substance use and mental health treatment in veterans treatment courts. More than half of veterans involved with the justice system have either mental health problems or substance use disorders.

Courts quickly moved online after state shutdowns, and many continue in this new mode. While often useful to meet treatment court obligations, online justice administration can be an obstacle for individuals looking for the camaraderie that came with meeting in person. Other challenges relate to access to technology and due process.

6. Disability benefits delayed

Veterans Administration office closures have exacerbated the longstanding backlog of disability claims, which more than doubled over the course of the pandemic. Approximately 200,000 veterans wait more than 125 days for a decision. Anything less than 125 days is not considered a delay in benefit claims.

There is a long delay for medical exams to determine disability benefits. As of March 2021, there was a backlog of 357,000 medical exams, nearly three times the backlog from February 2020.

The closure of the National Personnel Records Center, which houses the physical records frequently required to obtain benefits, led to an estimated 18- to 24-month backlog of 499,000 document requests. These documents are often necessary to receive medical benefits as well as military honors upon death.

7. Dangerous residential facilities

Veterans needing end-of-life care, those with cognitive disabilities or those needing substance use treatment often live in crowded Veterans Administration or state-funded residential facilities.

State-funded "soldiers' homes" are notoriously starved for money and staff. The horrific situation at the soldiers' home in Holyoke, Massachusetts, where 76 veteran residents died from a COVID-19 outbreak, leading to criminal charges, and the deaths of 46 veterans at an Alabama facility illustrate the risk that veterans in residential homes faced early in the pandemic.

8. Economic catastrophe

There are 1.2 million veteran employees in the five industries most severely affectedmining, oil and gas extraction; transportation and warehousing; employment services; travel arrangements; leisure and hospitalityby the economic fallout of the coronavirus. Veteran unemployment was at 3.5% before the pandemic and rose to 6.4% by September 2020.

A disproportionately high number of post-9/11 veterans live in some of the hardest-hit communities that depend on these industries and had even higher rates of unemployment than their nonveteran peers as well as other veteran cohorts. Many veterans may face evictions when the national moratorium on evictions lifts on June 30, 2021.

Military spouses are suffering from the economic fallout, as are children affected by school closures.

With veterans, many of the problems they face now existed long before the coronavirus arrived on U.S. shores.

But with the problems posed by the situation today, veterans who were already lacking adequate benefits and resources are now in deeper trouble, and it will be harder to answer their needs.

Explore further 8 ways veterans are particularly at risk from the coronavirus pandemic

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Artistic rendering of the surface of a human dendritic cell illustrating sheet-like processes that fold back onto the membrane surface. Credit: National Institutes of Health (NIH)

When pathogens invade or tumor cells emerge, the immune system is alerted by danger signals that summon a key battalion of first responders, the unsung heroes of the immune systema population of starfish-shaped sentinels called dendritic cells.

Without them, coordination of the immune response would be slower and less-well organized. Yet even in the face of such an indispensable role, it has taken until now to discover how a sub-population of these cells doesn't perish after completing their primary job in the immune system.

Dendritic cells were discovered in 1868, and at that time were misunderstood and wrongly categorized as members of the nervous system. But immunologists now know there are different types of these cells, even though they all look alike and have roughly the same job as sentinels in the immune system on patrol 24/7, hunting down infiltrating causes of infection and disease. What separates one group from another, scientists in Germany have just found, is their response to certain signaling molecules and how long they survive in tissues and the blood.

First off, the shape is no accident of nature. It allows these cells to perform their primary role, which involves obtaining microscopic samplesantigensfrom an infiltrator slated for destruction. Dendritic cells engulf snippets of the invader and literally present those antigens to key warriors of the immune system.

These highly mobile cells travel to sites where disease-killing immune cells reside to present their samples, introducing T cells, for example, to the enemy that awaits. Formally, the activity of presenting the sample to T cells is called antigen presentation. For all the work involved with alerting the body to danger, a major group of dendritic cells is programmed to die after a job well done.

Now, in a groundbreaking series of studies, a large team of researchers from throughout Germany has discovered why a unique population of dendritic cells doesn't die after antigen presentation. The sub-population continues to stimulate parts of the immune system to aid the fight against invasive viruses, bacteria or potentially deadly tumor cells.

The finding is likely to be viewed as welcome news in a world beset by a pandemic virus and a slew of worrisome variants. All have stoked concerns about the longevity of immunity triggered by COVID-19 vaccines. Another major role of dendritic cells, as it turns out, is marshaling immune forces in response to vaccination.

To understand the importance of the new research, it's first necessary to detour away from the new finding to delve instead into a primer on the two divisions of the human immune system: the innate and the adaptive.

Also, to fully grasp the research, it's important for another quick lesson: Dendritic cells 101. The new finding, scientists say, promises to change how the cells are defined going forward.

The innate immune system is composed of the big eaters, the so-called professional phagocytes that devour as much of an invading enemy as possible, chewing them into harmless trash. This part of the immune system also releases a tsunami of cytokines and other inflammatory molecules. Adaptive immunity is anchored by the big daddies of the immune response, mainly the various populations of B and T cells.

Dendritic cells, or DCs as they're also known, are the antigen-presenting population, which simply means they engulf a sample of an invader and race to present it to disease-fighting warriors of the adaptive immune system. But dendritic cells have a greater role: They actually activate the adaptive immune response. As a member of the adaptive immune system, dendritic cells serve as a bridge between the innate and adaptive systems.

Signaling activity initiated by the innate immune system's inflammatory molecules stimulates a swift response by dendritic cells, which are already on patrolon the hunt for invasive trouble.

Despite the chore of activating key players of the adaptive immune system, namely T cellsand, somewhat indirectly, triggering antibody-producing B cellsarmies of DCs are inescapably doomed to death. Once their primary jobs of antigen presentation and stimulating the adaptive response are done, the cells are subject to programmed cell death, apoptosis, which leads to their demise. Simply put, nature ensured that armies of dendritic cells perish once their primary roles are complete. Fresh recruits replace the old cells in a renewal process that begins in the bone marrow.

Drs. Lukas Hatscher and Diana Dudziak of the Laboratory of Dendritic Cell Biology at University Hospital Erlangen, a division of Friedrich-Alexander University, led the team that uncovered a long-lasting subset of dendritic cells. They've identified them as human type 2 conventional dendritic cells.

Hatscher, Dudziak and their collaborators analyzed this dendritic population, obtaining them from a variety of sitesthe blood, spleen and thymus. The organ-derived DCs used in the research were acquired from donated organs. Scientists compared their activity to human type 1 conventional dentritic cells. They found that longevity distinguished the type 2 population from the doomed type 1s.

Hiding in Plain Sight

The big surprise in the research was discovering that this elusive group of DCs had been hiding all along in plain sight. The challenge for the German team was elucidating why type 2 DCs stay active even though type 1s are programmed to die.

"Instead, these cells entered a 'hyperactive' state that enhanced the stimulation of certain T helper cell subsets," Hatscher and Dudziak wrote in the journal Science Signaling, describing the dendritic cell population they discovered. "The findings suggest that conventional dendritic cells type 2 could be critical to the efficacy of vaccines and immunotherapies as well as for therapeutically controlling inflammation."

The German team confirmed that type 2 DCs augment immune system activity by responding to inflammasome signaling. Chemically, inflammasomes are complex polymers and part of the innate immune system. Inflammasome signaling induces cytokines. The DC response to inflammasomes also occurs in vaccine immunity and the body's ability to repel infections, Hatscher and Dudziak found.

Type 1 dendritic cells tend to undergo regulated cell death after inflammasomes activate. But the investigators found that automatic death wasn't inevitable for type 2 DCs, which did not succumb after inflammasome activation. Type 2 DCs not only survived, but continued their role as a bridge between the innate and adaptive immune systems. The researchers suggest that these cells may be prime targets for approaches to treat inflammatory diseases or to boost the effects of vaccines and adjuvants.

"When conventional type 2 dendritic cells were stimulated with ligands that weakly activated the inflammasome, the DCs did not enter [programmed cell death], but instead secreted interleukin-12 family of cytokines [IL-12] and interleukin-1 [IL-1]. These cytokines induced prominent T helper type 1 cells and T helper 17 responses," the scientists wrote.

The discovery of how some dendritic cells survive and others are programmed to die was made by a large team of immunobiologists who represented more than a dozen leading research centers throughout Germany. Investigators described the signaling pathway that alerts these cells, and defined the biological role of dendritic sub-population. Scientists proved in their research that nuances of difference separate type 2 conventional dendritic cells differed from type 1s. "We found that the conventional type 2 dendritic cell subset is the major human DC subset," the researchers concluded.

Dendritic cells, in general, act as sentinels by conducting surveillance in tissues. For instance, they can detect infection in the body by pinpointing "danger signals" linked with invading pathogenic agents. Dendritic cells regardless of type zero in on PAMPSpathogen-associated molecular patternswhich are derived from microorganisms. One of the most notorious PAMPs is a potentially deadly bacterial component known as lipopolysaccharide, or LPS, which is found on the outer cell wall of gram-negative bacteria. Dendritics obtain antigens from the deadly invasive sourceand the launch of the adaptive immune system assault on the infiltrator begins.

While the findings by Hatscher, Dudziak and their colleagues may prompt scientists worldwide to take stock of a broader role for these immune system constituents, it's now clear that Germany has been in the vanguard of dendritic cell research for 153 years.

German pathologist Paul Langerhans, while still a medical student, was the first to describe DCs in skin cells. Although he mistakenly defined them as nerve cells, he is credited with bringing attention to bear on this hardworking cell population. (Langerhans is also famous for research involving the pancreas. An insulin-secreting cluster of cells in the pancreas is named after him: the islets of Langerhans).

Hatscher and Dudziak, meanwhile, report that their 21st-century discovery not only enhances overall knowledge about the immune system, but paves the way for using this new knowledge in the fight against disease processes. "These findings not only define the human conventional type 2 dendritic cell subpopulation as a prime target for the treatment of inflammasome-dependent inflammatory diseases, but may also inform new approaches for adjuvant and vaccine development."

Explore further Researchers discover regulatory pathway that blocks immune response against cancer

More information: Lukas Hatscher et al. Select hyperactivating NLRP3 ligands enhance the TH1- and TH17-inducing potential of human type 2 conventional dendritic cells, Science Signaling (2021) Journal information: Science Signaling Lukas Hatscher et al. Select hyperactivating NLRP3 ligands enhance the TH1- and TH17-inducing potential of human type 2 conventional dendritic cells,(2021) DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.abe1757

 2021 Science X Network
Though both of his parents were tone deaf, they also encouraged his musical passions. Haggerty recalls being 9 years old and crashing his fathers tractor because he was distracted singing show tunes. Realizing where his sons strengths lie, his father spent what money he had on a guitar for the young Haggerty and said, here play this and stay off of my tractors.

He grew up on old-timer country music and cultivated a passion for the heartfelt genre.

Country music was what was real, he said.

Haggerty came out in 1969, directly after the historic Stonewall riots for gay rights. He was the only person he knew of who came out in Missoula at the time. He was adopted by a local biker gang because he showed the guts and rebel energy they aspired toward, he said.

The fact that the biker gang adopted me right away put me in a special category, Haggerty said. It was like, 'Don't mess with Haggerty or the bikers will get you,' and of course that saved my life.

Recording the album

He returned to Washington not long after that and wrote Lavender Country, releasing the completed album in 1973.
"They were built with some public money but the period of affordability has expired," Lounsbury told the commissioners at a meeting on Thursday.

The commissioners directed Lounsbury to try to work with the city to put together a funding package to purchase the 12,700-square-foot building, which is listed for $2.19 million.

Commissioner Dave Strohmaier also directed Lounsbury to try to convince Western Montana Mental Health Center to retain the building and keep managing it.

"I'd like you to ask Western Montana Mental Health Center to consider not divesting themselves of this property at this time," Strohmaier said. "Clearly given that we're emerging from the pandemic and with all of the other housing and homeless issues we are wrestling with, it's not a great time for a radical move like this."

Strohmaier said a government purchase of the building should only be a backup plan. Commissioner Josh Slotnick agreed.

"Why use the last tool first," he said. "The last tool is we buy it. Maybe there's something we could do to support Western Montana Mental Health Center to keep them managing it. This isn't just an old apartment building. It needs to be managed in a very appropriate way. I wonder if we could find a solution rather than just the last resort of buying it."
Missoula County's SWAT team was called to a standoff in Columbia Falls on Wednesday.

Deputies from the Flathead County Sheriffs Office were dispatched at 9:11 a.m. to a report of shots fired at the 200 block of Dawn Drive in Columbia Falls, according to a news release.

A suspect, identified as Amanda Zahn, 38, came out with a pistol and pointed it at police, the release said. Gunshots were exchanged. Officers set a perimeter and a standoff ensued for several hours while negotiations continued.

Gas munitions were eventually deployed, the release said. Missoula County SWAT arrived on scene with an advanced camera system and officers were able to safely go in and secure Zahn. Medical personnel transported her to a hospital for treatment of gunshot wounds to the chest.

Two Flathead County sheriffs deputies  Sgt. Travis Smith and Cpl. Jeff Perry  fired their weapons during the incident and both have been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation by the Montana Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, the release said.

The Montana Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation is handling the shooting investigation and the officers involvement in the incident.
Barnett believes the vaccine is "readily available" and encouraged younger populations to seek it out, he said. COVID-19 cases have been highest in the 20 to 29 age group nearly every week since the beginning of January, according to county data.

As of Wednesday, nearly 44% of the 20 to 29 age group has had at least one vaccine dose. Comparatively, the percent of those between 30 to 59 who have received at least one dose is in the low 60s.

In the 12 to 19 age group, 25.01% have had at least one dose. The health department has pushed for that group to get vaccinated in recent weeks following the approval of the Pfizer shot for children 12 and older.

"When we look at the numbers and we see the low rates of vaccination among those 29 and under, it's not because the vaccine is not available," Barnett said. "So what we need to do is really encourage those populations, who, you know might (not) be doing it because they don't feel like they themselves are personally at risk."

The Missoula Health Department is running vaccine clinics every day at Southgate Mall. They run from 3 to 7 p.m. on Mondays and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday.
At an afternoon news conference outside the warehouse site, however, Esdaile and state and local officials accused Amazon of not taking the problem seriously enough and not doing enough to stop the racist incidents.

Nuchette Black-Burke, a town council member in Windsor, said many employees at the site are afraid to go to work. She vowed to keep putting pressure on Amazon to solve the problem.

Many people dont understand our history, she said. A noose? Peoples heads were put in those and hung from trees, hung from different places. So while people may think that someones doing this just for giggles and ha-has, no, its real history that impacts.

Windsor police did not return a message seeking comment Wednesday. Police officials previously denounced the nooses and called them potential hate crimes. Mayor Donald Trinks said police officers have been stationed at the site around the clock.

Esdaile said NAACP officials were not let onto the site Wednesday to talk with workers. He said police officers surrounded members of the group and told them they had to leave the property. Esdaile said he plans to file a complaint with the police department.
Expense reports for the years 2015 through July 2018 show the committee spent nearly $3.5 million on legal fees and expenses and only about $48,000 on technical expenses. While TVA may not have put its name on lobbying efforts and lawsuits, it was paying for them, the environmental groups allege.

TVA did not directly respond to the new allegations but said in a written statement that contacting the OIG or any other TVA oversight groups is an appropriate avenue for any member of the public to raise potential concerns.

The statement added: Although TVA supported the decision to disband the Utility Air Regulatory Group (UARG) in May 2019, our customers have directly benefited from the research and technical expertise gained from UARG participation, including significantly reduced air emissions and cleaner energy.

A spokesperson for the inspector general's office, Terri Beatty, declined to comment on the letter, which also calls for a review of any TVA involvement in other trade groups, including the Utility Solid Waste Activities Group, the Utility Water Act Group, the Clean Air Act Monitoring Service and the Climate Legal Group.
NEW YORK (AP)  Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has picked a date to step down as CEO.

Bezos, who grew Amazon from an internet bookstore to an online shopping behemoth, said Wednesday that Amazon executive Andy Jassy will take over the CEO role on July 5.

We chose that date because its sentimental for me," Bezos said during an Amazon shareholder meeting Wednesday. He explained that it was exactly 27 years ago on that date in 1994 that Amazon was incorporated.

Seattle-based Amazon.com Inc. announced that Bezos was stepping down as CEO in February, but didn't provide a specific date. Jassy, his replacement, currently runs the companys cloud-computing business.

Bezos, 57 and with a personal fortune of $167 billion, won't be going far. He will become executive chair at Amazon and focus on new products and initiatives. He also plans to focus on his other ventures, such as his rocket ship company, Blue Origin, and his newspaper, The Washington Post.
Chad Daybell made his first appearance in Idaho court Wednesday on three murder charges in connection with the deaths of his late wife and his new wife's two children.

Meanwhile, the mother of the two slain children, Lori Vallow Daybell, had her first appearance on murder charges postponed because of unnamed exigent circumstances.

The Daybells are at the center of a tangled case that involve several suspicious deaths as well as a bizarre apocalyptic religious belief that prosecutors claim the couple designed to justify the murders of 7-year-old Joshua JJ Vallow, 17-year-old Tylee Ryan and 49-year-old Tammy Daybell.

During Wednesday's court appearance in Fremont County, 7th District Judge Faren Eddins explained to Chad Daybell the penalties he could face if convicted of any of the eight charges he is facing under a new indictment released earlier this week. Both Lori and Chad Daybell could face the death penalty or life in prison if they are convicted of murder or conspiring to murder the victims in the case.

Chad Daybell is charged with three counts each of first-degree murder and conspiring to commit murder and grand theft by deception, as well as two additional counts of insurance fraud in connection with the life insurance policies on his late wife.
The State Information and Technology Services Division indicates that it is owed $41,790 for services provided to the PSC. The commission kept the debt off the books because it disputed the amount, though auditors report that commissioners and SITSD have reached an understanding that will result in the PSC paying all or some of the debt. There were also computer tablets bought but no expense recorded and poor accountability for tech that was retired out of commission.

Additionally, up to $26,000 in fee revenue owed to the commission had gone uncollected.

Some issues raised in the study had previously materialized in public records requests by Lee Montana Newspapers. Disputes over the travel expenses had festered for at least a year. In October 2019, then-Commissioner Roger Koopman had called for public discussion about commissioner travel spending.

Koopmans primary concern was that a previous spending cap on each commissioners travel has been discarded and that the travel expenses were increasing because of a lack of control. Thursday, Koopman said the findings by legislative auditors werent surprising.
In light of the current healthcare emergency facing India, Avaya has joined hands with a group of non-profit organizations and doctors to rapidly improve COVID-19 patients access to free healthcare while easing the stress on hospitals and clinics struggling with patient care.

Available nationwide and built under the direction Honble Minister Shree Ravi Shankar Prasad, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), MedicSetu gives COVID-19 patients under home quarantine the ability to participate in free video consultations with qualified doctors using a virtual platform. This greatly increases citizens access to medical advice while easing the burden on stretched resources at healthcare institutions.

The platform also enables doctors associated with various self-help groups and NGOs, including Rotary International and Arogya Foundation of India, to contribute their services for free COVID-19 consultations to the country.

Kunaal Prasad, COO at NLP Mission, MeitY, said, The number of COVID-19 cases in India has increased drastically over the past weeks, putting a significant strain on our current healthcare infrastructure. But we are fortunate and humbled that so many NGOs and medical groups have come forward to help. The creation of MedicSetu coordinates these efforts by giving patients free access to groups of doctors from anywhere without placing additional stress on the healthcare system. This is a purely non-commercial project, driven by the spirit of cooperation and contribution of doctors, NGOs, federations, volunteers and others, and we thank them for their proactive support to help us get the situation under control.

Created by Avaya and I-Novate in collaboration with MySenior Doctors, the platform acts as a virtual out-patient department, using the Avaya Spaces workstream collaboration solution to connect patients directly to doctors in private virtual rooms. The non-profit organizations Rotary India, Arogya Foundation of India, and the Manav Mitra Foundation also contribute to the initiative.

With a solution to the healthcare emergency needed urgently, the platform was created within seven days. During a test phase, 163 registered doctors provided consultation to over 876 patients during that week. And with MedicSetu having proven its ability to alleviate the surging demand on hospital resources, the initiative has now been expanded nationwide with over 1,000 doctors on-board.

Right now, the focus is totally on the COVID-19 patients who are hospitalized, but the ones who are home quarantined need equal attention. It is the time where organizations like us need to step up to address this gap and find the best solution to avail doctors to these home quarantined patients, especially for those who cannot take any financial pressure for medical consultation, said Rtn. Kamal Sanghvi, Director, Rotary International. MedicSetu has been the best way to address this gap and we are already witnessing a rise in conversations every single day.

Doctors are contributing voluntarily in association with a number of groups to help those who are not able to afford or physically reach healthcare establishments. Doctors who have been verified by the supporting NGOs and have been registered can connect with patients and deliver free healthcare advice.

Vishal Agrawal, Managing Director  India & SAARC, Avaya, said, Since the beginning of the pandemic, our Avaya team has gone above and beyond to safeguard the health and safety of others, while supporting organizations and customers globally in their ability to respond. And once again weve been humbled by the incredible work that our team put into this initiative, and by their drive to use our technology for good in the face of significant societal challenges. We wish all of our colleagues, their families and friends, and all in India the very best as they navigate the current situation.

Anish Kumar, Director and Co-Founder of I-Novate Group Of Companies, added, The country right now is in dire need for proactive responsibility to help COVD-19 patients connect with doctors, especially the individuals who are currently home quarantined and are not able to step out for consultation. It is an amalgamation of both availing an easy-to-use virtual communication platform between patients and doctors, and reducing the load on an already overburdened health infrastructure.
Both Arntzen in requesting the attorney generals opinion and Knudsen in releasing it noted similar criticism.

Committing racial discrimination in the name of ending racial discrimination is both illogical and illegal. It goes against the exceptional principles on which our nation was founded and has no place in our state, Knudsen said in a statement. Montana law does not tolerate schools, other government entities, or employers implementing CRT and antiracist programming in a way that treats individuals differently on the basis of race or that creates a racially hostile environment.

Prohibited school lessons or jobs trainings are those that include racial segregation, race stereotyping and race scapegoating. The opinion finds illegal exercises that require students or employees to admit or support concepts such as white privilege; segregating students or employees based on race; assigning fault or bias based on race; or using race in assigning classwork or grading.

These concepts violate civil rights laws because they constitute racial harassment and/or require authority figures to engage in activities that result in different treatment on the basis of race, the opinion states.
For Davis Gulch in Helena, we propose In-qu-qu-leet  a rough phonetic rendering of the Salish word that means Place of Lodgepole Pine. This choice recognizes how important this tree is in the lives of the Salish and other Indigenous nations, who use them as tipi poles and for other purposes and gathered them near the place in question.

Renaming these features with Salish terms celebrates the importance of the people who first cared for this land. It sends the message that Montanans understand our history and want to continue moving towards justice and inclusion for all people.

Weve already heard opposition from a few folks that removing Davis name would somehow erase or hide history, as though General Sherman marched across Beaverhead County or that the Indigenous peoples of this state havent themselves experienced centuries of cultural erasure.
Brewer remains committed to educating the public on the need to be vaccinated.

Ironically, the last time Dr. John Pullman had been to Montana Tech was Nov. 8, 2018, to help lecture on the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918.

Pullman, who specializes in critical care medicine and infectious diseases, was back at Tech to give his input on the virus.

COVID is a scary disease, he said, and right now were in the eye of the storm.

Pullman urged the unvaccinated to get that shot in the arm. He also advised them to keep things in perspective, stick with advice from health care professionals, and listen to those who have already been vaccinated.

They are the best advocates, he said.

Montana Tech professors Michelle Van Dyne and Philip Curtiss designed the program that collects all the data.

The program is fair, anonymous and secure, said Van Dyne. Everyone has an equal chance to win.

Like her colleagues, Butte-Silver Bow County Health Officer Karen Sullivan remains committed.

The number of vaccinations in Butte is substantial, but according to Sullivan, weve got a long way to go.
Prosecutors in Butte initially charged Clark with attempted deliberate homicide, robbery, tampering with evidence and criminal endangerment. In an agreement with prosecutors, he pleaded guilty to assault with a weapon and criminal endangerment.

But lead prosecutor Ann Shea said Clark deserved the maximum 30 years because of the seriousness of the crimes and the fact this offense occurred within days of the offense in Billings."

While the defendant is relatively young  in his young years  his criminal history basically indicates a danger to the community, she told Krueger on Thursday.

Britt Cotter, an attorney for Clark, said his client was young and had been in pretty much every treatment program we have in Montana, but there were mitigating factors to consider.

He cited an evaluation showing that Clark had an extremely traumatic childhood, including exposure to violence, drug abuse and essentially being abandoned by his parents.

According to prosecutors, a woman who knew Clark from the Butte Pre-Release Center ran into him in Deer Lodge on April 30, 2020, and rode with him in a silver Ford Ranger to Butte. They went to another mans house and drove him to the T-Mobile store, where he bought some headphones.
COLUMBUS JUNCTION -- People from throughout the U.S. and internationally have been flocking to visit the nearly 100-year-old Columbus Junction Swinging Bridge; and the effort to enhance the bridges tourism potential is now drawing attention to the people who have been working on the program, the city council was reminded Wednesday.

Park board member Bev Nielsen presented the council with a summary of the number of visitors to the bridge over the past 18 months and indicated the effort to establish the bridge area as a full-fledged city park was helping to lead to the positive results.

According to the summary, over 5,100 people from 38 states, Washington D.C. and at least seven foreign countries have visited the site over the last year and a half.

Its very popular, Nielsen told the council, pointing out community support was a key factor in what had been accomplished.

We want to express our appreciation to so many community members for continuing to support us, she said.

Volunteer Twyla Peters has been one of those community members and was recently recognized for her work with a May 6 May Flowers - Spring Surprises presentation on the Today show, with co-hosts Jenna Bush Hager and Hoda Kotb.
MUSCATINE  Officials at Muscatine Power and Water have a lot of sorting to do regarding the planning for more environmentally friendly energy production.

Because of confidentiality concerns, the Board of Water, Electric, and Communications Trustees and MPW's senior leadership team went into closed session Tuesday evening to review bids received for a proposed solar energy field. Prior to the closed session, Power Production and Supply Director Doug White reported 21 firms responded to the request for proposals for the project, amassing a total of 144 options.

"We've got a little work to do to sort this out," White told the board. "We are the first utility to put in an Iowa Utilities Board application for a project of this type."

White also reported more options have been added to the proposed gas fired central heat and power unit project, which would replace MPW's coal fired plants. That brings the number of options to 11, White said, and they are being pared down.

And White said the planning continues for the retirement of plants 7, 8, and 8A.

WATER SUPPLY
The investigation found that Schanely failed to publish an updated sexual assault policy for the 416th for more than two years; didnt convene a sexual assault review board for 15 months even though the Department of Defense requires such meetings be held monthly; left a sexual assault response coordinator position vacant for nine months; and failed to conduct a survey of the units command climate.

Twelve soldiers have been reprimanded or been given counseling statements. The Pentagon also took administrative actions against two senior leaders. Three civilian employees face administrative action as well. Army officials did not identify them or elaborate on their violations, citing privacy concerns, and names were largely redacted from the investigatory findings.

Rachel VanLandingham, a retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel who teaches national security law at Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles, said generals could decide to remove a reprimand from a soldiers file if their behavior improves, or use it to justify tougher punishment if problems continue. They also could place the reprimand in the soldiers permanent human resources file, which could hurt an officers chances at promotion, she said.

She described counseling statements as a tiny slap on the wrist and called them practically meaningless.
Investigators say Bahena Rivera told them he blacked out and couldn't remember how he killed Tibbetts.

The first defense witness called Tuesday was forensic consultant Michael Spence, who agreed that Tibbetts DNA was found on blood stains in the trunk, but said there was also unaccounted for DNA in the trunk, including at least one unknown male and female.

Spence conceded that it would not be surprising to find other DNA sources in a trunk of a vehicle that had been used, and that there are many ways they could have ended up there.

Iris Gamboa, the mother of Bahena Rivera's daughter, testified Tuesday that she lived with him for four years before they broke up in 2017. She said he worked 12-hour days and only got two days off every two weeks.

She said he was a good father who paid $500 per month to support their daughter, was not violent toward them and never showed excessive anger. Bahena Rivera was also sending money back to his parents in Mexico and paying to build them a house, she said.

The defense showed jurors a photograph of a smiling Bahena Rivera and Gamboa with their young daughter at a family party in 2017. He was happy that his daughter was happy, Gamboa said. It was a good day.

Bahena Rivera's aunt, Alejandra Cervantes, said he was known as playful around the family and that children love him. She recalled going to the sheriff's office where Bahena Rivera was being interrogated but being unable to see him or get in touch with him by phone.

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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  Israel's top diplomat to the United Arab Emirates attended a ceremony in Dubai on the grounds of the Arabian Peninsula's first permanent exhibition to commemorate the Holocaust. Hours earlier, he'd attended an event establishing a joint venture between an Israeli and Emirati company.
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CSS Corp announced that its board has unanimously chosen Sunil Mittal as the organizations next Chief Executive Officer. Sunil Mittal, currently the Chief Operating Officer at CSS Corp will take up the new role effective July 1st succeeding Manish Tandon who is stepping down after engineering a successful turnaround and generating tremendous value for investors. In addition, Sunil will also join the companys Board of Directors upon assuming his new role.

After a well thought out and executed succession plan, we are pleased to have found the best individual to assume leadership of this world-class technology and customer experience services organization, said Sanjay Chakrabarty, Chairman of CSS Corps Board of Directors and Managing Partner of Capital Square Partners, a Singapore based private equity fund manager and majority shareholder of the company. In his current role as the COO and in his prior role as the companys Chief Revenue Officer, Sunil has architected unprecedented revenue momentum and pipeline for the company. We are confident that he will be able to build upon this foundation and take the organization to the next level. Sunils strong business acumen and industry knowledge deeply connects with CSS Corps clientele and operations, and his leadership qualities make him best suited to lead CSS Corp successfully into the future.

We are extremely thankful to Manish Tandon, CEO for his contributions to CSS Corp. Under his dynamic leadership, CSS Corp made a successful turnaround over the past four and a half years and grew at 25% in the latest financial year ending 31-Mar-2021. Manish used innovation and technology as the underpinning of the turnaround strategy and created CSS Labs which is recognized as an innovator in this space. He also built a world class management team and established strong data driven processes leading to industry leading profitability and scalability of the business.

Im honored and grateful to the board for the opportunity to lead this exceptional organization of passionate, customer-centric and talented professionals, said Sunil Mittal. We are redefining traditional services through our unique intersection of industry-leading proprietary solutions, resilient operations, and innovative business engagement models. We are well-positioned to continue our growth momentum with our compelling value propositions. Im excited about this opportunity and look forward to collaborate closely with our clients and employees.

Mittal has had an illustrious career of over 22 years in the technology services industry. He spent 18 years at Infosys across multiple geographies, managing large client accounts, incubating new business capabilities, and building C-level relationships. He joined CSS Corp over four and a half years back and managed global sales, marketing, presales, and account management. Recently, he took over as Chief Operating Officer where he assumed the responsibility of global client delivery and IT, in addition to his existing portfolio. He serves on several association boards, including the Partner Advisory Board of the Technology Services Industry Association, and is a member of the Forbes Business Council. He currently resides in Dallas, Texas.

Manish Tandon expressed his confidence in the boards choice. Sunil is a remarkable leader who has been one of the chief architects of our success over the years at CSS Corp. Im very happy with how the organization has turned around and is well positioned for growth under his leadership. I carry with me, the goodwill and best wishes of almost 9,000 employees and the board. It has been a very rewarding journey for me and all stakeholders with CSS Corp over the last 5 years, and I wish Sunil the very best. 
South Africans should brace themselves for more load-shedding as Eskoms ailing infrastructure remains vulnerable to breakdowns.

Eskom CEO Andre de Ruyter told Parliament their aging power plants, many which are more than 40 years old, are prone to problems.

The power utility is currently busy with a second phase of maintenance of these ailing generation plants, which will continue through the winter months.

As maintenance requires generation units to be taken offline, the available capacity is significantly reduced. This, in turn, makes the grid vulnerable to unexpected breakdowns.

This is what happened in recent weeks when breakdowns and delays in returning units to service forced Eskom to implement load-shedding.

Yesterday, for example, 14,719MW of capacity was lost due to unplanned unavailability, while a further 2,220MW was unavailable due to planned maintenance.

This shortage of generation capacity resulted in load-shedding last night, with a warning of further blackouts unless the generators are returned to service as expected.

Commenting on the blackouts, De Ruyter explained that they are doing catchup maintenance  the so-called reliability maintenance recovery programme  which is progressing well.

We anticipate when we have completed the second tranche of units by the end of the third quarter of the year, there will be significant reduction in the risk of load-shedding, he said.

While the current maintenance programme will limit the need for load-shedding after September 2021, it will not eliminate it completely.

Stated plainly, Eskom is not able to generate enough electricity to meet demand  especially when older generation units are taken offline for maintenance.

De Ruyter said the only way to eradicate load-shedding is to get more generation capacity  notably from independent power producers (IPP).

The only way in which we can structurally eliminate that risk is by adding new capacity to the grid, he said.

We therefore welcome continued efforts by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy to add new capacity to the grid by means of various IPP programmes.

The government has recently announced the preferred bidders for the governments emergency risk mitigation IPP programme, but it will take time for these projects to come online.

Energy expert Chris Yelland said in October 2020 that the new capacity will most probably only come on stream in three to four years time.

Financial closure and construction are still required for the winning IPP bidders, which can take years.

Although it will help to address electricity shortages in the long term, this latest development will not solve load-shedding in the coming years.

Another initiative which can help is the ongoing project to fix the Medupi and Kusile coal-fired power stations and bring the outstanding units online.

Eskom spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha previously said load-shedding will continue until the repair work to correct the design defects at the Medupi and Kusile power stations has been completed.

This will also take a long time to complete. It is anticipated that the project will only be completed in 2022.

This means that for the foreseeable future, rolling blackouts will continue to be a reality in South Africa.
Are aliens watching us?

Thats what Americans hope to find out when a report on the US governments secret files on UFOs goes to Congress next month after years of sightings and videos suggesting that highly advanced extraterrestrials are, indeed, out there.

But the report from the Director of National Intelligence, pulled together with classified military files, could fall short of explaining scores of purported unidentified flying object incidents over decades.

While not clearly rejecting the alien theory, Pentagon officials make clear their real interest is in whether UFOs, or unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) in the US militarys parlance, could represent actual threats from adversaries here on earth.

Attention has mounted ahead of the report that the US spy chief is required to turn over to Congress by the end of June.

An unclassified version will be made public, while a more detailed classified one will remain secret  likely frustrating hard-core ufologists.

The CBS news journal 60 Minutes interviewed US Navy pilots who said they had seen inexplicable aircraft that flew faster and were more maneuverable that anything seen before.

Officials with access to classified intelligence drummed up the mystery.

What is true  and Im actually being serious here is that theres footage and records of objects in the skies that we dont know exactly what they are, former president Barack Obama told The Late Late Show on May 17.

There are a lot more sightings than have been made public, John Ratcliffe, who was director of National Intelligence for the last eight months of Donald Trumps administration, said on Fox News in March.

There are instances where we dont have good explanations for some of the things that weve seen.

Last year the US Defense Department released three black-and-white videos taken by Navy aviators that appear to show UFOs.

The pilots express amazement at what they are seeing, and no explanation is offered.

For the department, though, it is not about aliens but about possible technology created by US rivals that they were unaware of.

In August the Pentagon formed a task force to detect, analyze and catalog UAPs that could potentially pose a threat to US national security.

But the military does not want to reveal the results of its internal investigations because it hopes to protect its own activities, technology and intelligence.

If UAPs are from a potential adversary, the task force doesnt want to provide information that would give them details on what is known or unknown, a Pentagon official said.

That leaves many incidents unexplained, at least to the public.

The official did say, however, that many UFO sightings can be everyday objects that increasingly clutter air space: weather balloons, metallic party balloons, amateur and professional drones, all with varying radar signatures.

In addition, there are many variables that affect what pilots think they are seeing: their own speed, reflections from the sun, the weather and other issues. A pilot over the ocean might think an object is moving with extreme speed because it appears that way, and in reality it is moving as slowly as a car.

Moreover, sightings could also be of the Pentagons own highly classified experiments and prototypes.

The Department of Defense takes reports of incursions into our airspace  by any aircraft, identified or unidentified  very seriously, and investigates each one, said Sue Gough, a Department of Defense spokesperson.

As we collect additional data, we expect to close the gap between identified and unidentified and avoid strategic surprise regarding adversary technology, she said.

The worry is that at least some of the incidents could represent technology that the United States does not have but that China or Russia might possess.

If somebody is up there trying to identify how we train and how we fight, that gives them an advantage, said the Pentagon official.

Luis Elizondo, who worked in the Pentagon investigating UFOs, said on the ABC News program This Week on Sunday that some of the objects that have been sighted can outperform anything that we have in our inventory.

We know that whatever it is in our skies is real. The question is, what is it? he said.

The bottom line is, we simply dont know, he said.
Since the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines expanded to people older than 60 in South Africa, there have been complaints from government officials and the public about queue-jumpers  people who get vaccinated even though they do not qualify.

Observers have noted that people who are clearly not healthcare workers and younger than 60 are queuing to receive vaccines, many of them with official appointments from the Department of Healths Electronic Vaccination Data System (EVDS).

An industry source recently spoke to MyBroadband on condition of anonymity after they found they were able to register on the EVDS and received an appointment.

Armed with the SMS confirming their appointment, the source queued for and received their vaccine on Monday.

While our source does have comorbidities, they are neither a healthcare worker nor over 60 years old.

The source explained that they visited vaccination.health.gov.za and were not prompted for their age.

They were asked whether they are a healthcare worker, and if they work in another patient-facing job. They replied no in both instances and filled in the rest of the application.

They registered for the vaccine on Friday, and on Sunday morning they received an SMS informing them that their appointment was scheduled for that Monday in the vaccination centre at 1 Discovery Place.

The experience of this individual casts doubt on the narrative that all alleged queue-jumpers lied on their EVDS application to get an appointment for their COVID-19 vaccine.

Nicolas Crisp, the medical doctor who heads up the EVDS, recently told Daily Maverick that people were giving false information on the web portal as healthcare workers to register to receive the vaccine.

He said that the issue was discovered over the weekend of 2223 May and the EVDS portal for healthcare workers was shut down to block people from exploiting the loophole.

Department of Health spokesperson Popo Maja provided similar information to News24, stating that they discovered over the weekend that the EVDS web portal for healthcare workers was being used by ineligible people to register for the vaccine.

While it is accurate that people who were not eligible for the vaccine were able to register, what has not been mentioned is that the EVDS did not appear to properly filter out people who disclosed that they were not healthcare workers.

In other words, not all queue-jumpers lied to get their appointment.

The Department of Health also went on to blame queue-jumpers for causing it to miss its target of vaccinating all healthcare workers by the end of last week.

This conclusion by the Department, and its insinuation that queue-jumpers used up vaccines intended for healthcare workers, is not borne out by the facts at hand.

Crisp stated that some healthcare workers had not registered for the vaccine.

Since the EVDS portal for healthcare workers was only shut down over the weekend, the Department of Health didnt miss its target because of queue-jumpers  it missed the target because not all healthcare workers registered to receive their vaccine by the end of last week.

MyBroadband contacted the Department of Health for comment, but it did not respond by the time of publication.
Today is May 27, 2021. Let's get caught up.

These headlines are in the news this morning: Details emerge about the victims and gunman in a California rail yard shooting that killed 8; Republican senators expected to block investigation of Jan. 6 insurrection at U.S. Capitol; the world remembers author of "The Very Hungry Caterpillar."

Read on for these stories, other top headlines, celebrity birthdays and more.

TOP STORIES

Authorities ID 9 victims of California railyard shooting

SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP)  An employee opened fire Wednesday at a California rail yard, killing nine people before taking his own life as law enforcement rushed in, authorities said, marking the latest attack in a year that has seen a sharp increase in mass killings as the nation emerges from coronavirus restrictions.

The shooting took place around 6:30 a.m. in two buildings at a light rail facility for the Valley Transportation Authority, which provides bus, light rail and other transit services throughout Santa Clara County, the most populated county in the San Francisco Bay Area.
One is getting people better prepared for the inevitability of fire in areas like the wildland-urban interface. That includes new construction, he said. "And the second is getting our ecosystems better prepared for climate change and fire impacts.

On the local level, individuals and communities need to create defensible spaces and evacuation plans, he said. On the government level, more resources need to go toward managing forests.

I think weve got one to two decades," Stephens said. "If we dont do this in earnest, were frankly just going to be watching the forest change right in front of our eyes from fire, climate change, drought, insects, things of that nature.

Part of the issue is that increasing wildfire resilience often requires trade-offs, said Erica Fleishman, professor at Oregon State Universitys College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences.

Cities or states could require defensible spaces around homes. Building codes could call for fire-resistant materials. That would drive up construction costs but also mean homes would be less likely to burn and need rebuilding, she said.

The insurance industry and the building industry and communities and lawmakers are all going to need to have the will to create these changes, she said.
INDIANAPOLIS (AP)  The inaugural harvest of genetically modified salmon began this week after the pandemic delayed the sale of the first such altered animal to be cleared for human consumption in the United States, company officials said.

Several tons of salmon, engineered by biotech company AquaBounty Technologies Inc., will now head to restaurants and away-from-home dining services  where labeling as genetically engineered is not required  in the Midwest and along the East Coast, company CEO Sylvia Wulf said.

Thus far, the only customer to announce it is selling the salmon is Samuels and Son Seafood, a Philadelphia-based seafood distributor.

AquaBounty has raised its faster-growing salmon at an indoor aquaculture farm in Albany, Indiana. The fish are genetically modified to grow twice as fast as wild salmon, reaching market size  8 to 12 pounds (3.6 to 5.4 kilograms)  in 18 months rather than 36.

The Massachusetts-based company originally planned to harvest the fish in late 2020. Wulf attributed delays to reduced demand and market price for Atlantic salmon spurred by the pandemic.
SPRING HILL, Fla. (AP)  Investigators in Florida have arrested a 53-year-old sex offender, a fugitive from California who had been living under a false identity for 21 years.

The Hernando County Sheriffs Office announced that it received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children on Tuesday about a sex offender who was possibly living in Spring Hill.

Sheriff's officials immediately began investigating and learned that David Swenson, 53, was an absconded sex offender" from California. He had active warrants there for failing to register as a sex offender in 2000.

Detectives also learned that Swenson was living with his wife under the name Kevin Crowley, the sheriff's statement said. They used various databases to discover that he had recently used the name Kevin Crowley to obtain a fishing license. The two vehicles, a camper, and a boat at his home in Spring Hill were all registered to Crowley's wife, the statement said.

Sheriff's deputies had a previous encounter with the man, when they were called to the home in 2009, and found him hiding in the attic. He provided them with his false name, Crowley, and was issued a notice to appear in court, but the case was dropped due to a pre-trial diversion.
Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) together with its subsidiaries, the Adnoc Group, the current holder of 80 percent of the common shares in Adnoc Distribution, aims to raise $1.64 billion by selling its key stakes and also through issuing of bonds.

The Abu Dhabi state oil company said it equates to three per cent of the registered share capital of Adnoc Distribution, through an accelerated bookbuild offering at an offer price of AED4.36 per share to certain eligible institutional investors in reliance on Rule 144A and Regulation S of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the US Securities Act).

Concurrently with the Share Offering, Adnoc proposes to issue approximately $1.195 billion senior unsecured bonds due in 2024 that are exchangeable into existing common shares of Adnoc Distribution, constituting approximately seven percent of the companys registered share capital under certain conditions, under a private placement to certain eligible investors outside the US under Regulation S under the US Securities Act.

Adnoc made it clear that the combined offering will not be available to the public in the UAE or any other jurisdiction.

Together, the share offering and, assuming exchange and settlement in shares of all of the Exchangeable Bonds under their terms, the Exchangeable Bond Offering, represent a Combined Offering by Adnoc of approximately 10 per cent of the registered share capital of Adnoc Distribution.
But will it be?

Tax revenue estimates are just educated guesses and Californias governors have a history of badly missing the markers they lay down. Our tax systems are notoriously volatile, making accurate forecasting difficult.

A look at recent revenue projections illustrates the syndrome.

Two years ago, before COVID-19 hit, Newsoms budget expected revenues of $145.5 billion in the current 2020-21 fiscal year. One year ago, after the pandemic had struck and Newsom had ordered thousands of businesses to close, his May revision dropped that projection to $116.4 billion. But now its been boosted up to $170.4 billion.

Those are particularly wide swings, but weve seen similar, if less dramatic, versions in years and decades past. The volatility and unpredictability are almost entirely due to personal income taxes, which supply about 70% of the states general fund revenues.

Nearly half of those income taxes come from the top 1% of taxpayers, much of whose incomes are capital gains, making the budget highly dependent on predicting how their portfolios of stocks and other assets will perform.
This led me on many paths, from becoming a board member to helping establish a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) high school to becoming a teacher. As a teacher, I would find my voice and address what I had experienced and felt so many years ago.

Now, I had the opportunity to teach students science and engineering. Now, I had the opportunity to be a role model and a guide for students like me growing up in the hood. I had an insatiable drive to bring opportunities, resources, and grants to spur my students creativity and innovation to help them know that they deserve the best education possible. Inexorably, this led my students to want to show the world their potential.

We entered an engineering competition with a 3D-printed robot, the culmination of their hard work and brilliance. Out of all the grants, equipment, and resources, I realized that their voice was the most important resource I had given them. They knew who they were, where they came from, and what they were capable of.

Their robot obliterated the competition, taking 1st place in all categories. No other team came close. After the ceremonies, the trophies, and the excitement of winning, I asked my students, So how do you guys feel?
We live in an empire. The ruling elite maintains their control with lies reported by a national media system that has largely turned into stenographers, making them all essentially state-run outlets.

These outlets and their co-workers, federal politicians all work together to fabricate a national debate that is safe (because it doesn't include any topic which could change the structure of power) to create the illusion that there is dissent.

It doesn't matter which party is the ruling party, the show is always the same. The topics of their show include things that are guaranteed to drive a wedge between us and keep us fighting with each other.

The truth is that: Democrat, Republican, Independent, Green, or Libertarian, we all agree on a great many issues  issues that the ruling elite don't care to enact.

For instance, most of us will agree that equal access to a decent-paying job is something to strive for. Most of us agree that wars should not go on for 20 years, with no obvious reason to continue, as in Afghanistan. Most of us agree that everyone should have access to basic healthcare and education, even if we don't agree on which policy is best. Most of us don't want others to go hungry or be the victims of violence.
Armenias Pashinyan congratulates Boris Johnson on Queens Birthday

Armenia ex-President Kocharyan in Spitak town, pays tribute to victims of 1988 earthquake

Acting premier: Corrupt clergymen discredit Armenian Apostolic Church, traditional values

Armenia, Georgia customs officials meet at Bagratashen border checkpoint

One new case of coronavirus reported in Artsakh

Armenia acting deputy PM signs new decision

Sarkissian to Putin: Armenian-Russian cooperation is developing confidently in all directions

Putin notes differences between "outsider" Trump, "career man" Biden

88 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

President: Karabakh has always underscored Russia's invaluable place, role in our region

Security Council chief: We have had Russias support in Artsakh for centuries

Pashinyan to Putin: I am convinced that Armenian-Russian interstate relations will continue to develop

Armenias Pashinyan congratulates Mishustin on Russia Day

Newspaper: Armenia criminal authorities take neutral position in current electoral process

Newspaper: Real "war" behind scenes of Armenia authorities after every provincial visit of acting PM

Armenia acting PM Pashinyan tells details from his talk with army General Staff former chief Gasparyan

Man found dead in Armenia canal

NATO Secretary-General affirms willingness for cooperation with Russia

Armenia Special Investigation Service charges political party member for giving electoral bribe

Armenia Central Electoral Commission grants motion to launch criminal prosecution against MP candidate

"I Have the Honor" bloc member: Coronavirus and 'nikolavirus' (Nikol Pashinyan) are both lethal

Greek PM: Greece willing to back positive EU agenda for Turkey

Russia Deputy FM, France Ambassador discuss settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict

CoE: We are engaged in a dialogue to develop a set of confidence-building measures between Armenia, Azerbaijan

Armenia 3rd President states when country's security system began to collapse

Armenia Armed Forces' General Staff ex-deputy chief on acting PM's statement on his "National Hero" title

Armenia Arevik National Park director dismissed for being a friend of Meghri mayor

Reuters: Erdogan's summit with Biden clouded by bitter disputes

Armenia acting MOD receives Head of ICRC Delegation

Gagik Tsarukyan: Armenia needs to develop the economy by using resources of country and people

Gagik Tsarukyan: Russia is Armenia's main ally, and this can't be altered

Armenia MOD: Azerbaijanis try to carry out engineering works in Kut border section, Armenian side counters

Armenia 1st President's nephew and his son involved in brawl in Yerevan

Snap elections online voting starts, Azerbaijan continues 'trial' of Armenian POWs, Jun 11 digest

Armenian former high-tech industry minister, member of ruling party on June 9 brawl in Yerevan

Robert Kocharyan: If Armenia wants a peaceful settlement of Karabakh conflict, it needs to give Azerbaijan hope

Armenia acting PM: During campaign meetings hundreds of mothers thanked me for signing Nov. 9 document

Citizens are demanded to applaud Armenia acting PM

Armenia ruling party lawmaker, MP candidate: Civil Contracts election promises are continuation of 2018 promises

Armenia villager to Nikol Pashinyan: Yard of Turk's house is in front of our military post

Opposition Prosperous Armenia Party assures that it's not expecting ministerial positions

Robert Kocharyan: "Armenia" bloc will restore and deepen country's ties with allies

Czech Rep. parliament committee calls on Azerbaijan to release all Armenian captives immediately

"Armenia" bloc member Armen Gevorgyan holds meetings with diplomatic corps and international organizations

Dollar still dropping in Armenia

Azerbaijan announces names of 26 Armenian servicemen it intends to "put on trial"

Armenian publishing house to print 66,925,000 ballots for upcoming snap parliamentary elections

"Armenia" bloc member: There are reports that over 10 police buses escorted acting PM yesterday

Gallup: "Armenia" bloc records slightly higher indicator than ruling party

Armenia acting PM has been obligated to publicly apologize to Khachatryan family

"Armenia" bloc: Robert Kocharyan and ARF-D resolved crisis that Levon Ter-Petrosyan created in 1998

Intellectual Armenia Party to support "Armenia" bloc in snap parliamentary elections

Armenia ruling party MP's powers terminated

Brawl takes place during Armenia ruling Civil Contract Party's campaign meeting, case launched

Armenia acting premier: We also have enclave under Azerbaijan rule

Holy Etchmiadzin: We express regret for unwise, inappropriate statements of acting PM

"I have the honor" bloc member: Armenia acting PM has instructed his voters to go to polls by afternoon

Prosperous Armenia Party MP: Enemy does not divide Armenians into "blacks" and "whites"

Bright Armenia Party leader: Acting premier will not be able to get 60% of votes

Armenia acting PM: There are people in media who are more like "killers" than journalists

Ex-President Kocharyan: 2009-2018 I did not agree with Armenia authorities on many issues

Armenia has new millionaires

Armenia President visits Russia embassy, meets with ambassador

Artsakh search continues Friday for remains of Armenian soldiers killed in war

Armenia ruling party election offices heads being paid by provincial halls?

Armenia emergency ministry preparing for a new cooperation with USAID

US, Turkey top defense officials discuss regional issues

95 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

G7 leaders pledge to share 1bn doses of coronavirus vaccine with world

Armenia snap parliamentary elections online voting starts

Trump tells Biden to give Putin his warmest regards

Newspaper: Pashinyan is both Armenia acting PM and not

Newspaper: Why is Armenia arms dealer released from custody?

National Geographic officially announces 5th ocean

Armenia MP candidate is detained

Armenia Prosecutor General receives OSCE/ODIHR election observation mission's delegation

France's Macron intends to discuss situation in Nagorno-Karabakh with Turkish counterpart

Armenia 3rd President on Nikol Pashinyan: People look at him and say 'greetings, son of a b**ch'

US Department of Commerce intends to impose sanctions against Armenia's Armenal aluminum foil producer/exporter

Armenia 1st President recalls his "remedial secession" formula for Nagorno-Karabakh conflict settlement

"I Have the Honor" bloc to Armenian authorities: Let them try to use force or threaten anyone

Armenia 2nd President: Everything that makes us Armenian has been destroyed over past three years

Azerbaijan continues obscene farce, "investigation" into case of another 26 Armenian POWs is over

Ex-governor presents situation in Armenia's Syunik Province

Armenia 3rd President doesn't know why Nikol Pashinyan hasn't signed the pro-Armenian document he's talking about

Armenia's Pashinyan: If I'm guilty, execute me, and I'll submit

Armenia acting PM holds march with twice as many security and police officers in Vanadzor (PHOTO)

Armenia acting MOD attaches importance to transparency of procurement and supplies in Armed Forces

Remains of 4 more Armenian servicemen found and removed from Artsakh's Jrakan region

Enigmatic incident takes places in Yerevan, semi-decayed body of man found under bridge

Philip Reeker: Azerbaijani Armed Forces need to return to positions of May 11

Armenia opposition party leader says he's ready to form coalition with all forces, except for ruling party

Armenia MOD: Azerbaijani side opens fire at military posts in border section of Gegharkunik Province

Head of Armenia's Mission to OSCE: Goals of OSCE and CSTO serve as ground for their cooperation

Azerbaijan shares documents on 8 Armenian POWs, COVID-19 in Armenia, Jun 10 digest

Azerbaijanis open gunfire at military posts in Armenia's Gegharkunik Province for nearly 30 minutes

Armenia acting justice minister expresses gratitude to US for supporting government's reforms agenda

Philip Reeker: US will continue to press for the return of Armenian POWs and detainees

Armenia 1st President: Russian peacekeepers won't leave Nagorno-Karabakh after 5 years

Catholicos of All Armenians receives newly appointed Ambassador of Kazakhstan
YEREVAN.  You are aware that we had an incident on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border this morning, and I consider it important to inform what happened. Acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this at Thursdays Cabinet meeting of the Government of the Republic of Armenia (RA).

"Six servicemen of the RA Armed Forces were carrying out equipment work the border in the sovereign territory of the RA. Land mining works have been carried out, and I would like to clearly stress that they were carried out with the installation of warning signs; that is, they were not made for sabotage purposes. These actions were taken to increase the level of protection of our border. Of course, later there was information already that our soldiers were captured [by Azerbaijani military]. The circumstances, of course, have yet to be clarified, but this is not, in fact, captivity; the abduction of our servicemen from the RA territory has taken place. You are aware that units of the Azerbaijani armed forces units also are located in those areas since May 12, and the issue is in this very context. I want to specially emphasize that the ongoing processes are absolutely unacceptable for us. Incidents of this kind take place because some people want to see to it that we get used to the presence of Azerbaijani forces in our territorywhich cannot happen.

It should be noted that the incident took place in our territory; our six servicemen had a task of equipping the border, which is constantly happening along the entire border. I consider it very important in this case that the issue should not be used for internal political purposes at all.

I believe that all attempts to use this situation against the [Armenian] army and the armed forces should be condemned," Nikol Pashinyan stated.

He added that the incidents taking place in recent days show that this is not an ordinary situation at all, as an attempt is made to present, in particular, by the Azerbaijani authorities. "This is a direct danger threatening Armenia's sovereignty, territorial integrity, which is a gross violation of international law. This is the case when the RA should use all those international levers to correct and regulate the situation; we will take all necessary measures for that.

It is very important to provide clear information about what happened and its context, so that Azerbaijani disinformation is not disseminated, including in the Armenian media domain. I believe that our society today should be even more united around our army, state institutions so that we can overcome this situation," said the acting premier.

He emphasized that the two objectives of the adversary should be registered and managed: "One of the goals is to develop the situation so that the presence of their armed forces in our territory is considered as a normal thing. The second scenario is to provoke a military confrontation to take the situation out of control. We should not pay tribute to either of these goals. The Azerbaijani armed forces must unconditionally leave the RA territory. Second, we will be clear-headed, prudent in all situations; we must prudently manage provocations. The RA armed forces must fulfill their functions of guarding and strengthening the borders, maintaining territorial integrity. No matter how difficult situations we are going through today, nervous and unbalanced actions, statements, postures are not appropriate at all," Nikol Pashinyan concluded.
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) said it has provided structured Islamic financing to Rasmala Long Income Fund to support its acquisition of a supermarket investment in Hattersley, Greater Manchester.

The property, which was constructed in 2012, extends to 100,365 sqft and is leased to Tesco Stores Limited (the UKs largest supermarket chain) on a 25-year full repairing and insuring lease with 15.8 years remaining (with no tenant break options), at a rent of 1.46 million per annum which is subject to 5 yearly index linked upwards only rent reviews.

Rasmala Long Income Fund was established in 2018 and has a diversified portfolio of real estate assets covering the UK, Europe and North America with a current net asset value in excess of $250 million.

The fund is managed by Rasmala Investment Bank Limited (RIBL) which is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA).

Paul Maisfield, Head of UK Real Estate at ADIB, said: "We are delighted to have supported Rasmala on their latest transaction. There are clear synergies with our financing product and the objectives of the Long Income Fund to generate income and capital growth by investing in a Sharia compliant manner into a diversified portfolio of real estate assets benefitting from secure income derived from long leases."

"The UK grocery market has demonstrated strong resilience during the pandemic providing a secure investment alternative for our clients looking for long-term income security, particularly at a time when appetite for risk has faded in the face of an economic downturn. We are looking forward to continuing to support Rasmala in the execution of their UK commercial real estate investment strategy," he noted.

Rasmala Senior Executive Officer Eric Swats said: "Tesco superstore is an excellent addition to Rasmalas European real estate portfolio, taking our real estate AUMs to over $1 billion. We are delighted to partner with ADIB and look forward to working with them on expanding our international real estate portfolio."

ADIB has strong track record in offering bespoke and competitive Sharia-compliant property financing solutions for its clients having built up a portfolio of financing assets in the UK of over AED 2 billion over the last three years.

Eversheds was the advisor for Rasmala Long Income Fund, while ADIB was advised by CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang and Collas Crill.
Advocates Vahe Hovsepyan and Vardan Arakelyan have filed a lawsuit in the Administrative Court prohibit Nikol Pashinyan from signing a document on the state borders and territorial integrity of Armenia [the document that was recently disseminated on the Internet and which Pashinyan has expressed willingness to sign]. This is what advocate Vahe Hovsepyan told Armenian News-NEWS.am.

The advocates have also petitioned to the Court to prohibit Pashinyan from signing any disputed document before the end of examination of this case. Pashinyan has no right or power to sign any document and act on behalf of Armenia as Prime Minister. Pashinyan is not the Prime Minister from the moment he submitted his resignation letter, much less acting Prime Minister. This is clearly provided for by the Constitution, Hovsepyan said, adding that, based on the document, its clear that this document is an international treaty, and in this case, according to the Constitution, signing is possible only after domestic procedures are undergone.

Hovsepyan also noted that the document implies demarcation and delimitation, and this implies the holding of a referendum. So, the person lacking the power to sign a similar document is trying to overturn these legal procedures and sign the document, Hovsepyan mentioned, noting that the aim of the lawsuit is to prevent the signing of that document.
Leading Spanish engineering consultant Savener said it has won the design contract for the Barka V sea water reverse osmosis (SWRO) desalination plant in Oman which will boast a capacity of 100,000 cu m per day on completion.

The contract, awarded by a joint venture between Spanish infrastructure major GS Inima and Italian group Fisia Italimpianti, will see Savener carry out the design of practically all the engineering of the installation.

The project, which is set to come up in the north of Muscat at an investment of $129 million, will involve more than 50,000 hours of work for the Spanish group.

According to Savener, it has 5 RO trains using spiral wound membranes, DAF pre-treatment system and gravity dual media filters and a post-treatment using UP-flow Limestone filter.

This alliance will allow the Savener team and specialists and the GS Inima and Fisia Italimpianti technicians to work in a coordinated manner in all disciplines associated with the project,

The scope of work includes civil engineering, electricity, piping, process, I&C, mechanics/3D modeling, and guaranteeing of the usual levels of demand and quality of Savener projects, said a company spokesman.

"With this project Savener consolidates its knowledge and experience in the water sector, specifically in desalination systems, and reinforces its presence as a strategic and technological partner of large engineering projects in the international arena," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
A court in the Netherlands has ruled in a landmark case that the oil giant Shell must reduce its emissions.

By 2030, Shell must cut its CO2 emissions by 45% compared to 2019 levels, the civil court ruled, a BBC report said.

The Shell group is responsible for its own CO2 emissions and those of its suppliers, the verdict said.

It is the first time a company has been legally obliged to align its policies with the Paris climate accords, says Friends of the Earth (FoE).

The environmental group brought the case to court in 2019, alongside six other bodies and more than 17,000 Dutch citizens.

Though the decision only applies in the Netherlands, it could have wider effects elsewhere. BBC Netherlands correspondent Anna Holligan tweeted that it was a "precedent-setting judgement".

A Shell spokesperson said they "fully expect to appeal today's disappointing court decision" and added that they are stepping up efforts to cut emissions.

"Urgent action is needed on climate change, which is why we have accelerated our efforts to become a net-zero emissions energy company by 2050," the spokesperson said, adding that Shell was investing "billions of dollars in low-carbon energy, including electric vehicle charging, hydrogen, renewables and biofuels".

"This is really great news and a gigantic victory for the earth, our children and for all of us," FoE director Donald Pols said in a statement. "The judge leaves no doubt about it: Shell is causing dangerous climate change and must now stop it quickly."

Under the terms of the Paris Agreement on climate change, nearly 200 nations agreed to keep global temperatures "well below" 2C above pre-industrial levels.

The legally binding treaty came into force on 4 November 2016. The US withdrew under former President Donald Trump but has since rejoined under President Joe Biden.

A number of groups around the world are now trying to force companies and governments to comply with the accords through the courts.

Shell has previously said it wants net zero emissions for itself and from products used by its customers by 2050.

In December its defence lawyers told the Dutch court the company was already taking "serious steps" to move away from fossil fuels, and said there was no legal basis for the case.

Other major oil companies are also making changes amid a greater global focus on cutting emissions.

On Wednesday Chevron investors voted in favour of a proposal to cut its customer emissions, while shareholders at Exxon elected two climate activists to its board after months of wrangling over its business direction.

The Shell verdict is a massive win for environmental campaigners, and other industrial giants will be scrambling to figure out how it could affect them.

Because suddenly it's not good enough for firms to comply with the law on their emissions - in an extraordinary case like this, they have to comply with global climate policy too.

The company's defence is that if people feel progress towards cutting emissions is too slow, they should lobby governments - not Shell - to change policies and introduce financial incentives.

The judges have clearly decided that Shell should be taking responsibility itself for cutting emissions much faster.

The firm will surely appeal - and it might well win the case in a higher court.

But this verdict alone will be a warning to companies round the world that the battle against climate change may be spelling the end of anything resembling "business as usual".

Shell - full name Royal Dutch Shell - is a British-Dutch multinational. Because its headquarters are in The Hague, FoE was able to bring a case to a Dutch court.

Earlier this year another Dutch court ruled that Shell was responsible for damage caused by oil leaks in the Niger Delta, and ordered the company to pay compensation to farmers.

Shell, however, has said the leaks were the result of "sabotage".-- TradeArabia News Service
Armenian News - NEWS.am presents the daily digest of Armenia-related top news as of 27.05.21:

Six Armenian soldiers were surrounded and captured by the Azerbaijani troops in the early morning of Thursday while carrying out engineering work at the protection area of their military unit at the border area of Gegharkunik Province.

The Azerbaijani defense ministry has issued a statement adding that these soldiers were reportedly in the territory of Azerbaijan.

However, the defense ministry of Armenia noted that Azerbaijan continues to disseminate disinformation about the capture of six Armenian soldiers.

"We declare once again that the Armenian servicemen were located in the territory of the Republic of Armenia and did not cross the [Azerbaijani] border. We are publishing the detailed map of the location," the statement said, adding the map.

Armenia has applied to the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) with a request to ensure respect of the fundamental human rights of the six Armenian soldiers whom the Azerbaijani military has taken as captives.

The submitted request aims to ensure respect of the captives rights to life and prohibition of torture envisaged by the European Convention on Human Rights.

The situation on the Armenian-Azerbaijani borders in the Syunik and Gegharkunik provinces is still tense as the Azerbaijani troops have not yet pulled out their forces from the Armenian state border.

Earlier this week, an Armenian soldier has been killed by the Azerbaijani forces. The soldier has received a lethal firearm injury following the shootings that began after the Azerbaijani side opened fire in the Verin Shorzha border section of Gegharkunik Province.

Meanwhile, on Thursday, there were reports that there are shootings in the Tavush province of Armenia.

However, the defense ministry representative noted that one of the subdivisions of the Armed Forces of Armenia is conducting shooting training at Tavush Province.

"They must have mistaken it for that. The reports about shootings, exchange of fire there by the adversary [Azerbaijan] are not confirmed," he added.

According to Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Armenian Armed Forces Eduard Asryan, nearly 1,000 Azerbaijani soldiers are illegally located on the territory of Armenia.

The general noted that the Azerbaijani military is not able to carry out serious tasks. The General Staff continues to assert that Azerbaijani units are surrounded.

However, the number of Azerbaijani troops, according to official data, has grown several times since the illegal invasion of the territory of Armenia.

In connection with the provisions of the November 9 statement signed by Russia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, the Russian border department has been allocated land plots in the Syunik province of Armenia to strengthen the southeastern borders of Armenia.

The government of Armenia will accept the land plots donated by the communities in Syunik, and they, together with other land plots owned by Armenia, will be allocated to the Russian border department in Armenia with the right of gratuitous use for defense purposes.

Lilit Makunts, head of the My Step majority faction in the National Assembly (NA) of Armenia, on Thursday met with US Ambassador Lynne Tracy.

According to the secretariat of the faction, meetings with the chiefs of other diplomatic missions in Armenia are also planned amid the latest developments.

The meetings are in connection with the current situation as a result of the Azerbaijani troops crossing the state border of Armenia at Syunik and Gegharkunik Provinces.

As of Thursday morning, 140 new cases of the coronavirus were confirmed in Armenia, and the total number of these cases has reached 222,409 in the country.

Also, five more deaths from COVID-19 were registered, making the respective total 4,416 cases.

The number of people who have recovered over the past one day is 308, the total respective number so far is 212,265.
Geodis, a top-rated, global supply chain operator, has appointed Antoine Pretin as Vice President Engineering Group. He will oversee the growth in automatizing Geodis service offerings to its customers.



Antoine Pretin, 38, engineer, began his career in 2007 as a project manager at Sidel Cermex, first in Dijon, then in Atlanta, USA. After a few years at Fives Intralogistics, he joined Actemium Logistics, a VINCI Group company specializing in automated intralogistics solutions, in 2014, where he was head of the distribution business.



"Faced with the acceleration of e-commerce and new consumer demands, the automatization of logistics warehouses is an essential response to handle growing flows in an ever-shorter timeframe. With his experience, Antoine will contribute to an open and constructive dialogue between the Geodis teams and the various players in the field of automatization, to serve the needs of our customers around the world," explained Philippe de Carne, Executive Vice President Business Development, Innovation & Business Excellence.



"The arrival of increasingly autonomous intelligent robots and a constant search for competitiveness are paving the way for increased automatization. Such solutions provide great leverage to improve performance and assist in order preparation in e-commerce warehouses, reducing repetitive tasks, but also gaining quality and reactivity. I am delighted to have joined Geodis, a world leader in supply chain management, to support this development. The mobilization of all the existing skills within the Group and the team I am building will be a great support for our customers," said Antoine Pretin.



Geodis has around 50 automated sites worldwide.  TradeArabia News Service




Armenian acting Nikol Pashinyan has presented plan for resolving border situation.

"My proposal is to reach an agreement on a quick, mirror-like withdrawal of the armed forces of both sides from the border. There is a difference in the perception of certain kilometers at the border," he noted.

"Instead, international observers representing Russia or the countries of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs will be deployed along the proposed border. The presence of observers is necessary for the parties to be sure that the other side is fulfilling the agreement, that is, it does not bring troops closer to the border. We are talking about a section of the Sotk-Khoznavar border, and it was on this section that tension arose."

"Thereafter, work to clarify the border will be carried out under the supervision of the international community. In this case, I believe that, again, there should be observers representing Russia or the OSCE Minsk Group, and this should take place under the auspices of Russia or the Minsk Group co-chairs."

"After the deployment of the observers, the next stage is work to clarify the boundaries from Sotk to Khoznavar. If the problem of Azerbaijan is really connected with the clarification of border points, then it should not have any grounds for abandoning this plan," he said.

According to him, the situation is tense, and the dynamics of this tension is growing and will continue to grow. "This is due to the fact that the Azerbaijani soldiers, who have already entered our territory for 15 days, and our soldiers are in a state of mutual penetration. That is, they not only stand face to face ... After today's incident, there is a possibility that representatives of our Armed Forces will also try to take them prisoner, then they will try to take retaliatory steps, and so on.

If the situation is not resolved, this provocation may inevitably escalate into a large-scale conflict. I want to propose a peaceful diplomatic solution to the situation that will lead to de-escalation.

Azerbaijan explains its actions by some maps at its disposal, our views on the location of border points differ. We certainly do not share this assessment. But since the situation has reached this explosive situation, I am making an open proposal to the international community. This proposal is also addressed to the government of Azerbaijan.

For our part, we are confident that international observers will be able to substantiate our position. Maybe they have their share of trust. But at this stage, we are talking about de-escalation and a peaceful diplomatic settlement of the situation.

This can be considered an official proposal from Russia, the co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group and Azerbaijan. I hope it will be accepted. This is the shortest, most effective and reasonable way out of the situation. If we do not go this way, the situation will inevitably get out of control. We cannot allow this to happen. In addition to this proposal, we will also begin consultations with our international partners. We have already spoken on this topic with acting. Minister of Foreign Affairs. We hope that we will be able to quickly implement this proposal," he said.
Yokogawa Electric Corporation announces that Yokogawa and Shell have jointly developed Platform for Advanced Control and Estimation R5.03 and will release it on June 2 as a solution under the OpreX Asset Operations and Optimisation family.

Platform for Advanced Control and Estimation is a software suite that brings together Shells advanced plant process control technology and Yokogawas real-time control technology to help customers improve productivity by increasing product yield and reducing energy consumption.

This version upgrade supports Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture (OPC UA), the latest version of a communication standard that improves plant systems interoperability and security, and provides the basis for digital transformation to help customers transition to industrial autonomy.

OPC is the interoperability standard for the secure and reliable exchange of data in the industrial automation space and in other industries. OPC UA is recognised as a communication standard for Industry 4.0, benefitting from high security and scalability without hardware or OS dependence.

DEVELOPMENT BACKGROUND

Advanced process control (APC) systems improve product yield and reduce energy consumption by maintaining temperature, flow rate, pressure, and other process values within a set range and keeping them as close as possible to their optimal set points.

Such systems are increasingly used in facilities such as oil refineries, petrochemical plants, chemical plants, and LNG trains.

Yokogawas Platform for Advanced Control and Estimation suite delivers the following functionalities:

*Multivariable model predictive control (the control of multiple variables based on predictions made using models of the dynamic characteristics of plant responses);

*Soft sensing for estimating quality in real-time based on temperature, flow rate, pressure, and other process values; and

*Customisation of calculations.

Yokogawa has continued to enhance this suite in response to changing customer requirements. The release of version R5.03 meets urgent industry needs for enhanced plant systems interoperability and security.-- TradeArabia News Service
In regard to the Armenian captives, there is a political issue and a psychological issue. This is what first President of Armenia Levon Ter-Petrosyan said in an interview with Petros Ghazaryan on Armenian Public Television.

The political issue is that Aliyev is certain that Nikol [Nikol Pashinyan] isnt going to win the upcoming elections, and, taking advantage of Nikols weakness, he is trying to get as much as he can from him. The psychological issue is that Azerbaijan had been in a humiliating situation for 30 years. Defeat is a heavy burden. We Armenians were defeated recently, and you can see what psychological situation we are in. The Azerbaijanis were defeated and were demanding the same thing from the President of Azerbaijan that the Armenians are demanding from Nikol now. I dont understand why Azerbaijan is taking such actions after its victory. The winner is usually generous towards the loser and doesnt hate the latter, he said.

The first President recalled that when both sides had prisoners of war after the Armenian sides victory in the first war in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), he decided on his own that he had to return the captives of Azerbaijan.

Members of the Cabinet told me not to transfer the captives, but I told them to be at ease since I knew Heydar Aliyev, and the Armenian captives were returned via a plane that same day. I have nothing else to add, Ter-Petrosyan said.
The United States is concerned by recent developments along the international border between Armenia and Azerbaijan, including the detention of several Armenian soldiers by Azerbaijani forces. This is stated in the statement issued by the US Department of State.

We call on both sides to urgently and peacefully resolve this incident. We also continue to call on Azerbaijan to release immediately all prisoners of war and other detainees, and we remind Azerbaijan of its obligations under international humanitarian law to treat all detainees humanely.

The United States considers any movements along the non-demarcated areas of the international border between Armenia and Azerbaijan to be provocative and unnecessary. We reject the use of force to demarcate the border and call on both sides to return to their previous positions and to cease military fortification of the non-demarcated border and the emplacement of landmines. Specifically, we call on Azerbaijan to relocate its forces to the positions they held on May 11. We also call on Armenia to relocate its forces to the positions they held on May 11, and welcome statements of intent to this effect. These actions will de-escalate tensions and create space for a peaceful negotiation process to demarcate the border on an urgent basis. The United States is prepared to assist these efforts.

The United States urges the sides to return as soon as possible to substantive negotiations under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs to achieve a long-term political settlement to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, the statement reads.
To know what I need, I need to know Russias plan; I know what Aliyev wants (the more, the better), but I dont know Russias plans. This is what first President of Armenia Levon Ter-Petrosyan said in an interview with Petros Ghazaryan on Armenian Public Television, adding that Russia doesnt disclose its plans for anyone.

Today, Russia has one person to talk to in Armenia, and that is the head of state. I have ties with Russia, Robert [second President of Armenia Robert Kocharyan] has stronger ties in Moscow, but nobody will tell me or Robert. Pashinyan is Armenias representative. Im certain that Russia sincerely tells Pashinyan what it intends to do in this region and with regard to the future of Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh in general. Pashinyan doesnt even understand what the Russians are telling him, he said.

Asked what will happen if the Russian side withdraws from the territory of the Republic of Armenia, the first President of Armenia said he doesnt know what will happen, but added that there might even be a war.

Asked if Armenia needs to establish direct ties with Turkey now, Ter-Petrosyan said Armenia should have thought about the establishment of direct ties with Turkey a long time ago. Aliyev is also offering direct ties, if Armenia gives up Karabakh. The first thing a head of state needs to do is to try to be cunning. If I was cunning, nobody would deal with me. There is a new phenomenon now. The dialogue between the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan has never been as rough as it is now. Both sides insult and humiliate each other. This is an expression of Nikolism [the acts of Nikol Pashinyan], he said.
Videos showing scenes of the apprehension of the Azerbaijani who attacked an Armenian in Moscow have been posted on the Internet, and they were posted by Facebook user Davit Tonoyan on his Facebook page.

These are scenes of apprehension of the Azerbaijani who attacked an Armenian in Moscow. Although his wife and child are with him, he continues to make threats and make improper statements. There is no sound in the video since there are many swear words used, he noted, adding that lawyers from the Armenian Lawyers Association are also involved in the case.

Tonoyan also stated that Azerbaijanis today attacked one of the participants of a peaceful demonstration near the Embassy of Azerbaijan who were demanding the release of Armenian captives. An Azerbaijani was the first one who started it and was joined by a few people.

The victim, who is a citizen of the Russian Federation, received a head injury and a double jaw fracture and needs to undergo a surgery.

After a little while, police officers arrived at the scene of the incident. All the injuries were recorded, and applications have been sent to the relevant authorities.

The offenders will be held liable for their actions.
Amazon Web Services (AWS), an Amazon.com company, has announced plans to open an infrastructure region in the UAE during the first half of 2022.

The new AWS Middle East (UAE) Region will consist of three Availability Zones and become AWSs second region in the Middle East with the existing AWS Region in Bahrain, giving customers more choice and flexibility to leverage advanced technologies from the worlds leading cloud.

Globally, AWS has 80 availability zones across 25 geographic regions, with plans to launch 18 more availability zones and six more AWS regions in Australia, India, Indonesia, Spain, Switzerland, and the UAE.

"We are excited to build on the great momentum of cloud adoption in the Middle East by providing more choice for customers in the UAE to run applications and store data locally," said Peter DeSantis, Senior Vice President of Global Infrastructure, AWS.

"The new AWS Region supports the UAEs focus on promoting technology innovation that has made it a thriving global hub for entrepreneurs, e-governments, and multi-national businesses. With the new region, organizations of all sizes will be able to innovate faster and serve end-users with even lower latency across the region," he stated.

Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, the Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, said: "AWS's expansion into the UAE is a testament to our rapidly growing innovation ecosystem that will benefit from access to the world's leading cloud platform and its advanced technologies and solutions."

"Building on Abu Dhabi's smart infrastructure and digital transformation, AWSs investment will further enable innovators and companies with globally-relevant solutions to realize new opportunities in the UAE and beyond, he added.
SIU Chancellor Austin Lane, left, and Shawnee Community College President Tim Taylor formalize a reverse transfer agreement today, May 27, that will allow eligible students to earn their associate degrees from Shawnee while they earn their bachelors degrees from SIU. (Photo by Yenitza Melgoza)

SIU, Shawnee Community College sign agreement for students to earn two degrees

by Pete Rosenbery

CARBONDALE, Ill.  Southern Illinois University Carbondale and Shawnee Community College today, May 27, formalized a reverse transfer agreement that will allow eligible students to earn their associate degrees from Shawnee while they earn their bachelors degrees from SIU.

Under the agreement, SCC students who transfer before earning an associate degree are eligible for the program if they have completed a minimum of 15 transferable credit hours and at least one semester at SCC. Students must maintain a cumulative 2.0 GPA and remain in good academic standing. SCC will confirm the associate degree completion once the student meets academic requirements.

SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane and Shawnee Community College President Tim Taylor said the agreement offers more options to students in the area.

This exciting agreement with SCC provides a smoother pathway for students who start at the community college to complete their bachelors degrees, Lane said. This pathway helps students transfer with confidence, knowing that their credit hours from Shawnee will be accepted at SIU and their college education will be affordable.

Todays agreement is one of several steps SIU has taken to remove barriers between students and their education. SCC students who transfer to SIU will receive hands-on learning and personal attention and might be able to conduct research often reserved for graduate students. At SIU, were proud of the distinctive opportunities we offer and believe its our responsibility to provide access to those opportunities. I am grateful to President Taylor and look forward to our two institutions further collaboration.

The new pact follows SIUs announcement last year of the Saluki Transfer Commitment, the universitys pledge to remove financial barriers to a first-rate education for qualifying transfer students.

As an Illinois community college graduate and as a Saluki, it is particularly satisfying that SCCs first major academic partnership in my tenure as president builds a stronger connection with SIU, said Taylor. Having transferred from an Illinois community college to SIU, I have firsthand experience in how strong academic partnerships can foster student success.

For students, this reverse transfer agreement will help streamline the transfer process, potentially reduce college debt and provide an opportunity to obtain additional academic credentials, which might lead to higher-paying jobs in the future. With SIUs focus on serving the regional community, coupled with Shawnees focus on creating flexible, accessible and relevant learning opportunities for our local residents, I anticipate this is the first of many creative alliances we will work on together in the near future.

Nearly 60 students enrolled at SIU transferred from SCC and are eligible for reverse transfer, said Josi Rawls, SIUs assistant director for transfer relations. SIU also has reverse transfer agreements with John A. Logan College and Kaskaskia College, and is working on agreements with four more community colleges in the state, she said.

The reverse transfer initiative is beneficial to both the community college and the university, and even more so, the student, Rawls said. Even while a student pursues a baccalaureate, earning an associate degree is a huge accomplishment and something to be recognized. SIU and Shawnee Community College are proud to publicly share that our two institutions are working hard to ensure student success.

Joining Lane and Taylor for the reverse transfer agreement signing ceremony were Meera Komarraju, SIU provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs; Amanda Sutton, interim admissions director, and Rawls, along with Jean Ellen Boyd, SCC interim vice president of academic affairs and student learning, and Lisa Price, SCC vice president of student success and services. The signing took place in SIU Carbondales Anthony Hall.

More information about the reverse transfer program is available through SIUs undergraduate admissions at 618-536-4405 or transfer@siu.edu.
A 14-year-old girls body washed up on the banks of the Snake River in 1995 and 26 years later, an Idaho man has been found guilty in her death, police said.

A Cassia County jury found Gilberto Rodriguez, 58, of Burley, guilty of first-degree murder Tuesday, a post shared by the Cassia County Sheriffs Office said.

Regina Krieger, also of Burley, went missing from her home in February 1995, just two days before her 15th birthday, The Idaho Statesman reported in 2019. Nearly two months later, her body was found.

Cold case breakthrough: Man charged with murder in 1995 death of Idaho teen

She had been stabbed in the heart and her throat was slit, according to the Statesman. It wasnt until 2019 that police arrested and charged Rodriguez in connection with her killing.

Who killed Gina?

Rodriguez was 32 at the time of Kriegers death, according to a state witness, Magic Valley reported. The witness, who is a prison inmate, testified that Rodriguez enlisted him to help dump Kriegers body in the river when the witness was 16, according to the news site.

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His sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 26.

Terrorizing behavior: Suspect in Idaho girls 1982 killing abused, victimized females

Caldwell man Dripps pleads guilty to 1996 Angie Dodge rape, murder. Heres what we know
People listen during a vigil for Manuel Ellis, a black man whose March death while in Tacoma Police custody was recently found to be a homicide, according to the Pierce County Medical Examiners Office. David Ryder/Getty Images

3 Tacoma police officers have been charged in the 2020 death of Manuel Ellis.

2 face murder charges, while a third is facing manslaughter, Washington's attorney general announced.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

Three Tacoma police officers were charged in connection with the killing of Manuel Ellis, a Black man who died in March 2020 after being detained and shocked by cops.

Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced Thursday that officers Matthew Collins and Christopher Burbank were charged with second-degree murder and officer Timothy Rankine was charged with first-degree manslaughter.

The felony charges followed an independent investigation. Before Thursday's announcement, only three other officers in state history had ever faced criminal charges for unlawful use of force, according to the Seattle Times.

Four officers were put on leave in the aftermath of Ellis's death during a Pierce County Sheriff's Department investigation. Near the end of the initial investigation, eyewitnesses came forward with video footage of parts of the incident which contradicted officers' claims that Ellis had been aggressive toward them.

Video footage from that night shows officers hitting Ellis repeatedly while on the ground.

Witnesses said Collins and Burbank were the first two officers to arrive and initiated the aggression, before Rankine and another officer, Masyih Ford, arrived and restrained Ellis. The investigation later revealed that a Pierce County Sheriff's deputy was also at the scene, prompting the county prosecutor to note a conflict of interest.

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee handed the investigation over to the Washington State Patrol in June and put Ferguson's office in charge of making a final charging decision.

In December, investigators announced that a fifth Tacoma police officer put a nylon spit guard over Ellis's head after he was already restrained with handcuffs. A medical examiner said the mask was a contributing factor in Ellis's death and that officer was subsequently placed on leave, according to The Seattle Times.

Story continues

Ellis's death sparked nationwide attention and widespread protests. The Pierce County Medical Examiner ruled his death a homicide last year, with oxygen deprivation due to physical restraint as the primary cause. Methamphetamine intoxication and heart disease were also listed as contributing factors.

In the aftermath of Ellis's death, the Tacoma Police Department banned chokeholds and the Washington legislature implemented a statewide ban on the method.

Ellis's family announced in August that they would sue the city of Tacoma for $30 million in his death.

Read the original article on Insider
A standoff in Texas that lasted nearly 11 hours ended early Thursday with a suspect being taken into custody after three police officers suffered gunshot wounds, according to reports.

The officers in Flower Mound, outside Dallas, had been shot while responding around 7 p.m. Wednesday to a call of a suicidal person, police said.

After the officers were shot, the situation soon developed into a standoff  with the suspect barricading himself inside a residence and a police SWAT unit gathering outside.

The suspect, who was not identified, was ultimately detained but details were not immediately clear, KXAS-TV of Dallas reported.

ATLANTA DEFUND THE POLICE BACKER HAS CAR STOLEN  BY KIDS IN BROAD DAYLIGHT: REPORTS

Two of the wounded officers were taken to a hospital in stable condition and the third officer was cleared at the scene. The two hospitalized officers were later released, police said after midnight.

Officers exchanged fire with the suspect but didn't make contact with him, police said. SWAT and a crisis intervention team were on the scene of the standoff attempting to negotiate with the barricaded man believed to be alone in his house by early Thursday morning, the local Cross Timbers Gazette reported.

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The department thanked the public for the "outpouring of support, kind thoughts, and prayers," an updated 1:30 a.m. release said, adding all three wounded officers are "doing well."

"We are still working toward a peaceful resolution to this incident," the release said.

The suspect had been forced to give his guns to the police department over a previous separate incident but the weapons were returned last month, WFAA reported.

Flower Mound is a community of around 76,000 residents, about 29 miles northwest of central Dallas.
FBI Director Christopher Wray, NSA Director Gen. Paul Nakasone, Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines, CIA Director William Burns, and DIA Director Lt. Gen. Scott Berrier at a House hearing on worldwide threats, April 15, 2021. Tasos Katopodis/Pool via REUTERS

Every four years, US intelligence agencies compile scenarios that policymakers may face in 20 years.

Some of the scenarios are devastating, while others resemble a future version of our current world.

See more stories on Insider's business page.

What will the world look like in 2040?

Peaceful coexistence between the US and China based on mutual economic benefit? A chaotic and divided world trying to recover from major natural disasters caused by climate change? Or a catastrophic World War III?

These are some of the questions the US Intelligence Community asks itself when it prepares one of the most important and interesting national security reports.

Global Trends

Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Joe Biden at a virtual global climate summit, in Moscow, April 22, 2021. Sputnik/Alexei Druzhinin/Kremlin via REUTERS

Published every four years since 1997, the Global Trends Report is the Intelligence Community's overarching assessment of geopolitical trends. It aims to describe realistic scenarios that policymakers will face 20 years from now.

As the foreword of this year's report, the seventh iteration, states, the goal of the Intelligence Community isn't to say specifically what the world will look like in 2040 but rather to highlight issues and trends that might swell in importance and that current and future administrations might find useful when creating national-security strategies.

The publication of this version of the report almost coincided with the Intelligence Community's annual threat assessment, in which the Director of National Intelligence and the heads of the CIA, NSA, FBI, and the Defense Intelligence Agency provide an assessment of threats the US is or will be facing in the next year.

There are several steps behind the publication of the Global Trends Report. The authors examine and reevaluate past reports and adjust their approach accordingly while also incorporating new collection and analysis methods.

In addition, they seek both internal and external feedback. Indeed, open dialogues with the academic community and the private sector are key to the report.

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Interestingly, the authors also gathered opinions and perspectives from a wide range of domestic and international sources, including American high-school students, African civil-society organizations, and Asian businesses.

Beijing, China. REUTERS/Thomas Peter

Moreover, the report's authors first studied several structural forces - namely demographics, environment, economics, and technology - and how they and other external factors, including the all-important human behavior, might affect the geopolitical scene.

In addition, they calculated how some shared global challenges, including climate change, disease, financial crises, and technology disruptions, will potentially affect all nations.

But it is important to highlight what intelligence analysis is and isn't.

Good analysis aims to provide a solid understanding of an issue and likely outcomes, thereby informing the actions of policymakers. Conversely, analysis isn't a magic ball that can see into the future and tell whether North Korea is going to launch a nuclear missile at Seattle.

Sherman Kent, a legendary CIA analyst and founder of the Office of National Estimates, put it best when he said that, "Intelligence does not claim infallibility for its prophecies. Intelligence merely holds that the answer which it gives is the most deeply and objectively based and carefully considered estimate."

The latest iteration of the Global Trends Report details five potential geopolitical scenarios for 2040 that cover a wide spectrum: Some are devastating, while others resemble a future version of our current world.

Here is a brief breakdown of the scenarios.

Renaissance of Democracies

In this scenario, open democracies across the world are seeing a resurgence led by the US and its allies.

Rapid technological advancements and increased cooperation between the public and private sectors are facilitating a rapid expansion of the global economy, raising more people from poverty, improving their quality of life, and involving them in their societies.

Conversely, societies with autocratic control over their citizens, such as China and Russia, are falling behind as their ability to innovate stagnates.

A World Adrift

In a very gloomy scenario, the world is a directionless, chaotic, and volatile place, as institutions and international norms and rules have collapsed and only a few countries continue to abide by them.

The major oil-producing countries, such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Angola, are encountering economic stagnation, which has stoked societal divisions and political instability. China's ascendancy continues as the West falls behind.

In this volatile world, many global challenges are left unaddressed.

Competitive Coexistence

In a scenario that resembles today, the US and China are leading the world through a robust trading relationship that prioritizes economic growth.

Great-power competition continues and is still focused on geopolitical influence, strategic advantage, and technological supremacy, while each country promotes its governance model-liberal democracy in the case of the US vs. communist capitalism in the case of China.

Despite the ongoing geopolitical tensions, a major war is unlikely, and global problems, such as climate change and water shortages, are managed through international cooperation and technological advances.

Separate Silos

In this gloomy future, the geopolitical scene is fragmented into several economic and security blocs of varying importance and strength.

The US, China, Russia, and the EU continue to be the major players, but they have been augmented by a few regional powers-presumably South Africa, India, Brazil, and even Nigeria. The blocs are self-sufficient, with reoriented supply chains and a focus on resiliency and security.

Separate sovereign cyber enclaves control the flow of information, and international trade has been disrupted. Developing countries are unwitting observers.

Tragedy and Mobilization

This scenario envisions the aftermath of a devastating global food shortage caused by climate change.

A global coalition led by the EU and China is working with non-government organizations and multilateral institutions to implement comprehensive changes to deal with climate change, depletion of natural resources, and poverty.

Rich countries are helping emerging nations deal with the crisis and transition to low-carbon economies through aid programs and transfers of technology.

Lessons for the future

Biden, then vice president, and Chinese President Xi Jinping at a State Luncheon for China at the US Department of State, September 25, 2015. PAUL J. RICHARDS/AFP via Getty Images

Although scenarios such as "Tragedy and Mobilization," "Separate Silos," and "A World Adrift" paint a dark future, they are realistic in the sense that they account for current or imminent external factors, such as a growing world population or the depletion of natural resources, that will result in global emergencies if left unaddressed.

Conversely, "Competitive Coexistence" is essentially a future version of our current world, although with a more potent China. A "Renaissance of Democracies" is the better outcome for the US and the West, but effecting it would require investments in the institutions and values that differentiates those societies from autocratic states like China and Russia.

Stavros Atlamazoglou is a defense journalist specializing in special operations, a Hellenic Army veteran (national service with the 575th Marine Battalion and Army HQ), and a Johns Hopkins University graduate.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Many U.S. cities were already grappling with historic increases in gun violence when President Joe Biden took the oath of office in January, ratcheting up pressure on the new president to fulfill his campaign promises on gun reform.

In March, Biden proposed spending $5 billion on community-led gun violence prevention programs, setting the stage for what would be a historically large outlay from the federal government for anti-violence work. The following month, in response to a series of high-profile mass shootings, he announced a slew of executive actions directing the Department of Justice to:

Embark on a process to curb the proliferation of homemade, untraceable ghost guns.

Regulate pistol stabilizing braces, a gun accessory used in the March 22 fatal shooting of 10 people at a Colorado grocery store.

Produce an annual report on gun trafficking.

Publish model legislation for states to adopt red flag laws, which allow courts to temporarily suspend the gun rights of people who pose a danger to themselves or others.

In what could be the most consequential move, Biden also nominated David Chipman, a retired agent from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, to lead the agency he once served. The ATF falls under the Justice Department and is the only federal agency tasked specifically with regulating the gun industry. It has lacked a permanent director since 2015.

President Joe Biden has nominated David Chipman to lead the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Chipman, now senior policy advisor for the gun control group Giffords, faces a tough confirmation battle in the Senate, where he appeared before the Judiciary Committee for a hearing on Wednesday. If approved, he will be in charge of reforming an agency that has repeatedly come under fire from both the left and the right for how it polices gun sellers.

More: Biden's nominee to lead ATF supports ban on AR-15 rifle

So far, Biden has not proposed any specific changes for the ATF, nor hinted at plans to increase the agencys funding.

An investigation by The Trace and USA TODAY found that congressional restrictions, anemic funding and increasingly lax internal policies have weakened the ATFs enforcement of the laws governing gun shops and other types of federally licensed firearm dealers.

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Investigation: The ATF lets problem gun sellers off easy

The ATF allowed some sellers to go years without receiving an inspection, the reporters found. When inspectors did show up, they often discovered violations of state and federal gun laws. Most cases resulted in the ATF either not punishing violators at all or issuing them a written warning  the lowest penalty available. It was exceedingly rare for the agency to shut down even the serious violators.

The findings come against a backdrop of spiking gun sales and violence. The coronavirus pandemic and civil unrest spurred Americans to purchase a record-breaking 22 million guns in 2020.

Violence increased, too. More than 19,000 people were killed by guns  excluding suicides  last year, a 26% increase over 2019, according to data compiled by the nonprofit Gun Violence Archive. The surge in violence has continued into this year as cities across the country reported a stream of shootings that put them on track to break 2020 totals.

At Giffords, Chipman advocated for legislation to make it easier for the ATF to hold dealers accountable. In a 2013 op-ed for Politico, he bemoaned the ATFs lack of resources as a hindrance to inspecting gun sellers on a regular basis, adding that the gun lobby wins when ATF is inconsistent, distrusted and worthy of criticism.

Chipman declined to comment pending his Senate confirmation hearing, but he told senators on Wednesday that if they approved his nomination, he would review the inspection divisions operations thoroughly. We have to ensure that ATF inspectors are targeting those firearms dealers most at risk, he said.

In this March 24, 2018, file photo, Isabel White of Parkland, Fla., holds a sign that reads "Americans for Gun Safety Now!" during the "March for Our Lives" rally in support of gun control in Washington, that was spearheaded by teens from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School after the 2018 mass shooting in Parkland, Fla. President Biden faces an uphill battle as he tries to push for more state laws that would allow authorities to temporarily disarm people who are considered a danger to themselves or others.

The ATF has been overseen by a series of acting leaders since 2006, when the National Rifle Association successfully lobbied Congress to take away the presidents power to appoint the agencys director without Senate approval. Over the past 15 years, the gun lobbys congressional allies blocked every nominee with the exception of B. Todd Jones, who was confirmed in 2013 but stepped down from the post two years later.

The gun lobby has been committed to the idea of trying to cripple the ATF, and they have put pressure on their allies in Congress to do that over the years. So the agency has often operated at a much, much lower level of effectiveness than they are capable of, said John Donohue, a law professor and economist at Stanford University. I think the hope for the Biden administration is that the goals of the ATF can actually be realized with a good leader.

In 2008, Idaho Sens. Larry Craig and Mike Crapo and David Vitter of Louisiana, all Republicans, derailed the confirmation of President George W. Bushs ATF director nominee over a dispute in which the lawmakers accused the agency of being overly aggressive in policing gun dealers.

In 2020, conservatives derailed Donald Trumps nomination of Chuck Canterbury, the former president of the Fraternal Order of Police, over concerns he would support expanded background checks for firearm purchases, among other gun control measures. Trump withdrew his nomination after Canterburys nomination lagged in the Senate.

Carlton Bowers, a former ATF official who worked under Chipman before they both retired from the agency in 2012, said having a confirmed director could breathe new life into the agencys regulatory enforcement.

Acting directors catch a lot of flack from other senior people because they are just acting, Bowers said. But when you are confirmed as the director of ATF, you have more respect. 

The Senates Judiciary Committee chairman, Democrat Dick Durbin, said that he was focused on ensuring Chipman clears the 51-vote margin needed to install him in the post, even if that means obtaining a tie-breaking vote from Vice President Kamala Harris.

How many times have you heard it said, We dont need new laws, we just need to enforce the laws on the books, Durbin said in a Senate floor speech in April. What the gun lobby has done over the years is make sure the ATF doesnt have any money and doesnt have any leaders. We havent had anyone in the post in six years with Senate confirmation, and I want to change that.

In late April, a group of nine Republican lawmakers called on Durbin and ranking Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley to oppose Chipmans nomination. Taylor Foy, a Grassley spokesperson, said, Mr. Chipman has made no bones about his desire to further restrict gun ownership. Foy said plenty of gun laws were already in place.

Weve seen too many tragic events that could have been stopped if laws already on the books were properly enforced, he said, and the ATF shares responsibility for improved enforcement.

Biden has evolved from a pro-gun Democrat to a staunch ally of gun violence prevention groups.

He helped pass the Firearms Owners' Protection Act of 1986, an NRA-backed law preventing the ATF from inspecting gun dealers more than once a year and curbing the agencys ability to shut them down. In the early 1990s, Biden fought against the NRA to ensure congressional passage of the Brady Bill, which established background checks for prospective gun purchasers.

Biden made combating gun violence a key plank of his platform for the 2020 presidential campaign. He promised to strengthen the background check system, restrict access to assault-style weapons and hold gun manufacturers accountable for harm caused by their products.

Some of Bidens legislative objectives face hurdles in Congress, where Republicans are united in opposition and some Democrats have also expressed misgivings. Advocates, meanwhile, have pointed to the ATFs inspections program as another issue the president could change without congressional approval.

Chelsea Parsons, vice president of gun violence prevention at the Center for American Progress, a left-leaning think tank, said a confirmed director would help the ATF make changes in the face of pushback from the gun industry.

If you dont have stable, confirmed leadership that has the backing of the administration and Congress, Parsons said, then it makes it much more difficult to deal with the problems that were seeing with how the ATFs regulating the industry.

Contributing: Brian Freskos, The Trace and Nick Penzenstadler, USA TODAY

SUBSCRIBE: Help support quality journalism like this.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Bidens nominee to lead ATF could reshape agency to curb gun violence
Tennessee resident Virginia C. Brown is accused with driving her car through a Covid treatment site at a mall to protest the vaccine. (Blount County Sheriffs Office)

An anti-vaxxer came within inches of mowing down health workers with her SUV at a county vaccine site in Tennessee earlier this week, according to local police.

Sheriffs deputies in Blount County, Tennessee arrested Virginia C. Brown, 36, on Monday morning, after she allegedly drove through a medical tent where county health workers and National Guard personnel were helping administer the Covid vaccine at a local mall, WSMV reports.

"She was driving through to protest the vaccine, deputy Kevin Snider said in his report of the incident, noting those inside thought the driver was going to kill them.

Witnesses reportedly heard her scream no vaccine as her Chrysler SUV rammed through the vaccine tent, and officers said she continued to voice anti-vaccine sentiment once they arrested her.

Ms Brown, who could not immediately be reached for comment, is charged with seven counts of felony reckless endangerment.

At least a dozen health workers were inside the tent at the time she drove through.

She is out on $21,000 bond, with a county court hearing set for June.

The incident began when Ms Brown allegedly zoomed through a set of cones guiding drivers up to the vaccine tent, drove through the enclosure itself, then continued to to drive recklessly through the cone course, according to police reports.

Its not the first time Covid sites have been the center of aggressive protests.

In January, roughly 50 people, including anti-vaxxers and right-wing Trump loyalists, protested the vaccine at the entrance to a mass treatment site at Los Angeless Dodge Stadium, prompting officials to close the stadium entrance out of caution.

A similar group of protesters assembled at the stadium again in February, though this time they were met with counter-protestors. The Los Angeles Police Department at one point had to intervene and separate the two groups.

Nearly one in five Americans have expressed hesitancy to get the vaccine according to recent surveys, though nearly 60 per cent of adults have gotten the jab at least once in the US.

Tennessee lags behind other states when it comes to its vaccination rates, but opposition to the vaccine has emerged throughout the country, including in ostensibly more liberal states like California.
The trial of an Australian academic detained for more than two years in China on espionage charges began behind closed doors on Thursday, with Canberra voicing deep concerns over a lack of transparency after its ambassador was denied access.

Beijing has defended holding the trial of Yang Jun in secret, and criticised Australia for "interference" at a time of deteriorating relations between the two nations.

The case was held behind closed doors in Beijing with a heavy security presence outside the courthouse.

Chinese-born Yang, 56, who also goes by the pen name of Yang Hengjun, is one of two high-profile Australians detained in China on charges of spying.

Australia's Foreign Minister Marise Payne on Thursday voiced deep concerns about China's handling of the case, as a letter from Yang was released maintaining his innocence and referencing torture while being detained.

"We have not seen any explanation or evidence for the charges that have been brought against him," Payne told ABC radio, adding she had hoped the trial would be "transparent" with consular officials granted access.

But Australian ambassador Graham Fletcher was turned away from the courtroom when he arrived on Thursday.

"This is deeply regrettable, concerning and unsatisfying," Fletcher told media outside the courtroom afterwards.

"We've long had concerns about this case, including a lack of transparency, and therefore conclude it to be an instance of arbitrary detention."

China's foreign ministry said later that the trial had started but would be held in secret.

"Australian citizen Yang Jun's case involves state secrets, and is not held in open court in accordance with the law, with no arrangements for observers to sit-in. This is entirely lawful and reasonable," foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told reporters.

He said the verdict would be given at "a later date."

- 'Suffering and torture' -

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Yang was detained on a rare return to China in January 2019.

Beijing has outlined almost no details of the case against him since he was taken into custody.

In October the foreign ministry confirmed that charges of "espionage" had been filed against Yang and the case has been accepted by the court, without giving more information.

In a letter to supporters shared with AFP and other media, Yang said his health had deteriorated after 26 months "without fresh air or sunshine".

But he also said he remained "spiritually strong" and vowed to "face suffering and torture with resilience".

"I have no fear now," he said in the message, believed to have been dictated through a consular visitor or lawyer.

"I love you all and I know that I am loved."

Yang said in the message to his supporters that "if the worst comes to the worst, if someone wants to take revenge on me for my writings, please explain to the people inside China what I did, and the significance of my writing to people in China".

China's judicial system convicts most people who stand trial, and espionage charges can carry a sentence of life in prison.

Beijing has insisted Yang's rights are being respected and accused Australia of interfering in a Chinese legal case.

- Anger -

Diplomatic relations between the two countries have deteriorated sharply in recent years, with China furious over Australia banning Chinese telecoms giant Huawei from building the nation's 5G network. Australia cited national security concerns for its decision.

China has also been angered over Australia's push for an independent probe into the origins of the coronavirus pandemic, as well as criticism from Canberra over democracy and human rights issues in Hong Kong and Xinjiang.

China has in return imposed tariffs on Australian export worth billions of dollars and cut off diplomatic channels between the two nations.

Both nations have accused each other of harassing citizens as a way of leverage in their disputes.

Another Australian, TV anchor Cheng Lei has been held since August last year on accusations of "supplying state secrets overseas".

And two Australian journalists were rushed out of China shortly after, fearing being detained on spying charges.

Beijing has accused Canberra of raiding the homes of Chinese state media journalists as Australia investigates an alleged campaign of covert influence.

bur-rox/mtp
In the latest trading session, Bank of America (BAC) closed at $42.55, marking a +1.21% move from the previous day. This move outpaced the S&P 500's daily gain of 0.12%.

Prior to today's trading, shares of the nation's second-largest bank had gained 5.02% over the past month. This has outpaced the Finance sector's gain of 3.64% and the S&P 500's gain of 0.33% in that time.

Investors will be hoping for strength from BAC as it approaches its next earnings release. On that day, BAC is projected to report earnings of $0.75 per share, which would represent year-over-year growth of 102.7%. Meanwhile, our latest consensus estimate is calling for revenue of $21.92 billion, down 1.82% from the prior-year quarter.

BAC's full-year Zacks Consensus Estimates are calling for earnings of $3.03 per share and revenue of $87.73 billion. These results would represent year-over-year changes of +62.03% and +2.57%, respectively.

Investors should also note any recent changes to analyst estimates for BAC. These recent revisions tend to reflect the evolving nature of short-term business trends. As a result, we can interpret positive estimate revisions as a good sign for the company's business outlook.

Based on our research, we believe these estimate revisions are directly related to near-team stock moves. Investors can capitalize on this by using the Zacks Rank. This model considers these estimate changes and provides a simple, actionable rating system.

The Zacks Rank system, which ranges from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), has an impressive outside-audited track record of outperformance, with #1 stocks generating an average annual return of +25% since 1988. Over the past month, the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate has moved 0.16% higher. BAC is currently a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).

Valuation is also important, so investors should note that BAC has a Forward P/E ratio of 13.89 right now. This represents a premium compared to its industry's average Forward P/E of 12.47.

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Also, we should mention that BAC has a PEG ratio of 1.98. This metric is used similarly to the famous P/E ratio, but the PEG ratio also takes into account the stock's expected earnings growth rate. Banks - Major Regional stocks are, on average, holding a PEG ratio of 1.5 based on yesterday's closing prices.

The Banks - Major Regional industry is part of the Finance sector. This group has a Zacks Industry Rank of 71, putting it in the top 28% of all 250+ industries.

The Zacks Industry Rank gauges the strength of our individual industry groups by measuring the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks within the groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.

You can find more information on all of these metrics, and much more, on Zacks.com.



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By Gleb Stolyarov and Laurence Frost

MOSCOW/PARIS (Reuters) -Belarusian national carrier Belavia cancelled flights to eight countries on Thursday, as more EU states applied airspace restrictions in response to the forced landing of a passenger jet in Minsk.

The tightening restrictions on Belarus came as its main ally Russia denied access to a second European carrier seeking to skirt Belarus en route to Moscow.

Belavia announced the cancellations "due to flight bans from a number of countries", after neighbouring Poland joined a growing list of territories that have barred it from flying over them, making more routes unviable.

"We regret that our passengers have to face this situation for reasons beyond the airline's control," Belavia said as it scrapped flights to Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin, Brussels, Frankfurt, Hanover, Kaliningrad, Milan, Munich, Rome, Vienna and Warsaw until Oct. 30.

The European Union urged its airlines to avoid Belarus and moved to close its own airspace to Belarusian carriers amid outrage over Sunday's interception of a Ryanair jet en route to Lithuania from Greece, and the arrest of a dissident journalist on board.

Belavia previously said it was banned from destinations in Britain, the Czech Republic, Finland, France, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden and Ukraine, most of which have also barred it from their airspace. Its neighbour Poland joined the list on Wednesday.

Belavia flights were still crossing Italy and Hungary on Thursday and serving EU destinations including Larnaca in Cyprus and Tallinn in Estonia, according to FlightRadar24 data.

Cyprus officials said they were awaiting formal EU guidance on implementing the bans, and Estonia signalled imminent action.

"Belavia flights will not be accepted in Estonian airports, official decision later today," Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas tweeted. "Belarusian government has to take responsibility for its actions."

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RUSSIAN TENSIONS

Fallout from the Belarus standoff has sharpened tensions with Russia, whose vast airspace is hard to avoid for flights between Europe and much of Asia.

Moscow has so far refrained from heavy intervention as President Alexander Lukashenko's main ally.

But on Thursday Russia withheld clearance for an Austrian Airlines Vienna-Moscow flight plan avoiding Belarus - a day after failing to approve a revised Air France Paris-Moscow route. Both flights were cancelled.

"A change in flight routes must be approved by the authorities," said a spokesman for Lufthansa-owned Austrian Airlines. "The Russian authorities did not give us this permit."

Air France has cancelled a second Paris-Moscow flight scheduled for Friday after Russia failed to respond to another flight plan submission, the airline said.

Russia's civil aviation agency declined to comment.

Other Air France-KLM and Lufthansa flights continue to cross Russian air space and serve destinations in the country unimpeded, both airline groups said. Lufthansa has successfully rerouted Frankfurt-Moscow flights around Belarus.

France, which was among the first countries to bar Belavia, turned away its Barcelona-bound flight 2869 on Wednesday, forcing a return to Minsk.

"This is a European diplomatic issue at ministerial level," a spokesman for the French DGAC civil aviation department said, declining further comment.

(Reporting by Gleb Stolyarov and Alexander Marrow in Moscow and Laurence Frost in Paris;Additional reporting by Alexander Cornwell in Dubai, Chris Steitz in Frankfurt and Michele Kambas in NicosiaEditing by Andrew Osborn, Pravin Char and Frances Kerry)
The Middle Easts love for luxury is fuelling rapid growth in the second-hand luxury goods sector. Whilst the pandemic has resulted in reduced in-person shopping, online platforms have profited from a surge in demand from millennials keen to acquire high-end goods at affordable prices.

Sabrina Sadiq, founder and CEO of Luxury Promise, a leading social commerce platform for the worlds most exclusive, rare and luxurious second-hand goods and accessories, said: Our revenue increased fivefold this year due to more customers shopping online throughout the lockdowns.

Traditionally, consumers from the Middle East region have preferred to shop for new goods however, this has changed due to younger, more environmentally conscious consumers looking for affordable high-end goods in prime condition.

Following its launch in 2017 and with offices in Dubai and London, Luxury Promise successfully opened a flagship boutique in Mayfair, London and is growing its business in the GCC as it serves a 120,000 strong and growing global community. The platform is popular due to its reliability, community focus and authentication prowess.

The luxury resale market is growing four times faster than the primary luxury market, and this is all driven by the appetite of consumers, Sadiq said.

Sales growth at Luxury Promise has averaged over 35% month-on-month in the first quarter of this year. According to a report published by Bain & Company, the Dubai market for luxury goods sales was worth $3 billion (AED11.97 billion) last year, ranking the region as 20th on the world list for luxury goods sales. Globally, the personal luxury goods market is estimated to be worth around $374 billion by 2025.

The Middle Eastern fashionistas I have met have some of the most fantastic and awe-inspiring collections of handbags says Sabrina. They are among the most educated global luxury clientele who know how to treasure their pieces. It makes sense to invest our time here, given the market has massive potential for Luxury Promise for selling / buying back some of these unique treasures.

An eye for exceptional craftsmanship is where Luxury Promise excels. The business was born to connect clients globally through a shared love for high-end designer bags, accessories and clothing. Most websites selling pre-loved items offer only a consignment option, but Luxury Promises unique instant cash offering speaks to the global customer seeking seamless service.

Luxury Promise offers a convenient, reliable and efficient way that benefits both the seller and the client. Authenticity is of the utmost importance for Luxury Promise which uses well-trained human eyes and advanced AI technologies to inspect and authenticate each item with impeccable care and precision. The company boasts a wealth of experience in the luxury sector across its team - so customers can be comfortable in knowing that theyre receiving the highest level of quality service.

Luxury Promise is positioning itself to capitalise on the growth in this space. The firm has recently strengthened its leadership team in Dubai with the appointment of Sebastian Mitchell, formerly Chief Operating Officer at The Modist.

The Luxury Promise advisory board comprises leading executives and entrepreneurs Lloyd Amsdon, Co-founder of Watchfinder which sold to Richemont in 2018, Francois Delage, previously CEO of De Beers Jewellers and President of Louis Vuitton for Asia Pacific, Adam Sadiq, Co-founder of New World Group and Karen McCormick, CIO of Beringea who led the series A round last year.-- TradeArabia News Service
WASHINGTON  President Joe Bidens nominee to oversee nuclear warhead development, Jill Hruby, said Thursday the U.S. should continue plans to ramp up production of plutonium cores, a key component in nuclear weapons, by using two sites.

Federal officials, under President Donald Trump, set a deadline of 2030 for increased production of the plutonium cores or pits, with work split between Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico and the Savannah River Site in South Carolina  which is 25 percent into a refit.

At stake are jobs and billions of federal dollars to upgrade buildings or construct new factories, and its been an open question whether Biden would review those plans.

Hruby, who would lead the National Nuclear Security Administration, said at her Senate confirmation hearing that expanding pit production is the biggest issue facing the agency. While Los Alamos is on track to produce 30 pits per year by 2026, plans to produce 50 pits per year at Savannah River have slipped, pushing the 80-pit target to somewhere between 2030 and 2035, she said.

As Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Jack Reed, D-R.I., described it, nuclear modernization efforts  which include five warhead programs and facility recapitalizations  are fueling NNSAs highest workload since the 1980s. The organization is a semiautonomous agency of the Energy Department.

Senate Strategic Forces Subcommittee Chairman Angus King, I-Maine, prompted Hruby to affirm that the 80-pit goal is part of nuclear maintenance and modernization vital for deterrence and peace.

The number of pits that are projected to be needed are a minimum of 80 pits per year. Thats a significant capability at Los Alamos. If we were to do it all there, it would require much more infrastructure investment, Hruby said, adding that the expansion at Savannah River allows us to have a cost-effective program, use the talents across the NNSA complex.

The panels top Republican, Sen. Jim Inhofe, whose support for an NNSA budget increase in 2019 fueled one of several clashes with then-Energy Secretary Dan Brouillette, recounted Thursday that hed personally intervened with then-President Trump. In a sign Hrubys nomination is in good shape, Inhofe said he agrees with her priorities around weapons programs, infrastructure and the workforce  and he elicited her agreement to keep him informed of her progress.

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Washingtons battle over nuclear weapons budget already underway

However, one lawmaker was critical of the rising costs of nuclear weapons. Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren pointed to a staggering 29 percent increase in NNSAs newly projected costs for sustaining and modernizing warheads over the next 25 years to $505 billion. Calling this out of control, Warren worried that overruns would crowd out the Energy Departments important nonproliferation budget.

I think we need to get better at cost estimation and schedule estimation within the department, Hruby agreed, calling it a top priority for her.

But Warren shot back: You dont just need to get better. Based on where we are right now, you need to get a lot better.

King, a former co-chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, also leveled pointed questions over cyber protections for nuclear weapons. After the nominee for NNSAs deputy administrator, Frank Rose, said in the same hearing that he plans to quickly fill the role of NNSAs chief information officer, King said he wants to see more: an all-hands-on deck, urgent pursuit of cyber defense.

Im fine with appointing a new CIO, but Id like you to stand up a team that aggressively red teams your systems to test them, King said. I want people who are paid to hack your system to demonstrate whether or not you are in fact secure. There is no important cyber protection than that of nuclear command and control, and communication.

When Rose said he would, if confirmed, make the recommendations a priority, King responded: If you dont, Ill come and find you.
Brazilian shot putter readies for Tokyo Paralympics

Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Former mechanic Antonio Wallace injured his legs in 2007

The 36-year-old ranks as the top shot putter in the Americas

and sixth in the world

He has broken his own national record three times

It's been a long road to Tokyo due to the delay

Wallace lost muscle mass and gained weight

But he has fought back

(SOUNDBITE) (Portuguese) BRAZILIAN SHOT PUT ATHLETE, ANTONIO WALLACE, SAYING:

"I had been training in a place that was good for me. The weight of the shot for example, when I train - flat chest is 200 kilograms and I didn't have any way to do this at home...I lightened the loads, I lost muscle mass and I gained a little weight so returning was a little more complicated."

(SOUNDBITE) (Portuguese) BRAZILIAN SHOT PUT ATHLETE, ANTONIO WALLACE, SAYING:"I feel a mixture of wanting to grow, of anger and of wanting to throw the shot further and further because, thanks to that, thanks to sports, I have a life. I trained in physical education. I drive my car."
Breinify is a startup working to apply data science to personalization, and do it in a way that makes it accessible to nontechnical marketing employees to build more meaningful customer experiences. Today the company announced a funding round totaling $11 million.

The investment was led by Gutbrain Ventures and PBJ Capital with participation from Streamlined Ventures, CXO Fund, Amino Capital, Startup Capital Ventures and Sterling Road.

Breinify co-founder and CEO Diane Keng says that she and co-founder and CTO Philipp Meisen started the company to bring predictive personalization based on data science to marketers with the goal of helping them improve a customer's experience by personalizing messages tailored to individual tastes.

"We're big believers that the world, especially consumer brands, really need strong predictive personalization. But when you think about consumer big brands or the retailers that you buy from, most of them aren't data scientists, nor do they really know how to activate [machine learning] at scale," Keng told TechCrunch.

She says that she wanted to make this type of technology more accessible by hiding the complexity behind the algorithms powering the platform. "Instead of telling you how powerful the algorithms are, we show you [what that means for the] consumer experience, and in the end what that means for both the consumer and you as a marketer individually," she said.

That involves the kind of customizations you might expect around website messaging, emails, texts or whatever channel a marketer might be using to communicate with the buyer. "So the AI decides you should be shown these products, this offer, this specific promotion at this time, [whether it's] the web, email or SMS. So you're not getting the same content across different channels, and we do all that automatically for you, and that's [driven by the algorithms]," she said.

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Breinify launched in 2016 and participated in the TechCrunch Disrupt Startup Battlefield competition in San Francisco that year. She said it was early days for the company, but it helped them focus their approach. "I think it gave us a huge stage presence. It gave us a chance to test out the idea just to see where the market was in regards to needing a solution like this. We definitely learned a lot. I think it showed us that people were interested in personalization," she said. And although the company didn't win the competition, it ended up walking away with a funding deal.

Today the startup is growing fast and has 24 employees, up from 10 last year. Keng, who is an Asian woman, places a high premium on diversity.

"We partner with about four different kinds of diversity groups right now to source candidates, but at the end of the day, I think if you are someone that's eager to learn, and you might not have all the skills yet, and you're [part of an under-represented] group we encourage everyone to apply as much as possible. We put a lot of work into trying to create a really well-rounded group," she said.
A Bronx man who tried to flee through the window of a drug mill where heroin and fentanyl were packaged for delivery to New Jersey was sentenced Thursday to 46 months in the federal lockup.

Defendant Jose Antonio Vasquez Pena, known to his associates as Tono, received his prison term via video conference, with Newark Federal Court Judge Esther Salas handing down the sentence. Pena, 48, had previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of a substance containing fentanyl.

According to court documents, Pena served as the lookout inside a Bronx apartment where the drug ring stored its product before sending it across the Hudson River. His crooked colleagues prepared and packaged the drugs in the residence for shipment to their out-of-state customers, authorities said.

Pena was inside the apartment with six co-defendants on Feb. 27, 2019, when authorities arrived to bust the operation  with the suspects fleeing through a window, where all but one ran into the waiting arms of law enforcers stationed outside.

The seventh suspect was arrested at a later date.

Two days earlier, authorities watched as co-conspirator Jhan Carlos Capellan Maldonado arrived at the apartment with several shopping bags filled with materials to package the drugs.

Court papers indicated authorities learned earlier in February 2019 about the crew using the apartment to store, mix and package the drugs, with the 31-year-old Maldonado distributing the product.

Nearly a kilogram of fentanyl was recovered from the residence, along with equipment to grind and package the drug for distribution, according to authorities.

Four co-defendants already pleaded guilty in the case, while another pair  including Maldonado  were still awaiting trial.
Reuters Videos

The wife of Mexican drug lord El Chapo on Thursday pleaded guilty in federal court for her role in helping her husband run the Sinaloa cartel of smugglers. Clad in a green jumpsuit and wearing a white face mask, Emma Coronel Aispuro, appeared for a court hearing in Washington, D.C., where she pleaded guilty to three counts of conspiring to distribute illegal drugs, conspiring to launder money and conspiring to assist the Sinaloa drug cartel. As part of her plea agreement, the 31-year-old former beauty queen also admitted to conspiring to helping her husband escape from a Mexican prison in 2015 when he dug a mile-long tunnel from his cell. In early 2019, Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, who is 64, was convicted in a high-profile Brooklyn trial of masterminding a multibillion-dollar drug enterprise. He was sentenced to life in prison plus 30 years, and locked up in the federal Supermax prison in Florence, Colorado.Coronel, a dual U.S.-Mexico citizen, married Guzman in 2007 at the age of 18. The couple has twin daughters. Coronel could face up to life in prison for the drug distribution charge alone.The other two counts against her carry maximum prison terms of 20 years and 10 years, respectively.A tentative sentencing date was set by the judge for mid-September.
May 26Brenda Carter surprised herself when she got chills as she admitted looking forward to something so simple: She'd have her own stove again, a stove to cook for herself at home for the first time in months.

Chills gave way to tears in her eyes. She was surprised by those, too. It caught her off guard how excited she was to be back home, to see all the familiar faces getting off the bus on 11th Street and carrying boxes up to the 11th floor.

"I thank God that I'm alive," Carter said. "I'm so glad to be home."

Carter was one of 103 residents of Patten Towers who moved back into their apartments Wednesday afternoon, two months after a fire forced all the residents out.

In March, residents at Patten Towers were evacuated and one was injured as they attempted to escape a seventh-floor fire in downtown Chattanooga.

The call went out at 10:36 a.m. on Saturday, March 27. Nearly every company working for the Chattanooga Fire Department responded. At the time, the fire department said in a news release that off-duty members of the department came in, including the command staff, to assist, and many mutual aid partners filled in at the fire halls.

A number of firefighters helped with evacuations, which was difficult because a number of the residents were non-ambulatory and needed to be carried out of the building.

The fire, which was started by someone on the seventh floor smoking in their bed, was extinguished at 11:44 a.m. The fire department later found out a man "fell asleep and woke up to his bed on fire."

Floors 7, 8 and 9 of the building were "severely impacted" by the fire, and those residents were transported from the scene by CARTA. Residents of floors 1 through 6 were asked to shelter in place as groups such as the Red Cross worked to find temporary housing for them.

The seventh floor fire left the apartment building condemned until repairs were made. All 184 residents had to be moved to temporary shelters such as local hotels and motels.

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Martha Hopkins, the regional vice president of Elmington Capital, which owns the building, said Wednesday that 75 people had moved in earlier in the week and another 28 were scheduled for Wednesday.

"Many of the residents have been staying with their family and friends, others have been in hotels for months, and we're really excited to have them back," she said. "Everything's been going smooth today, and we're hoping to have everyone back by the end of the week."

Hopkins said help from the city of Chattanooga, CARTA, the Enterprise Company, the American Red Cross and many others has helped speed along the process to get people back in the building.

Carter said the hospitality at the Baymont hotel was fantastic, but she's happy to finally have a place to call her own.

Erected in 1908 at the corner of Market and East 11th streets, the Hotel Patten was Chattanooga's first skyscraper and hosted three presidents before and after they were elected  President William Howard Taft in 1911, Warren G. Harding in 1920 and John F. Kennedy in 1953.

The hotel was later converted to an apartment complex, a 196,500-square-foot structure that houses dozens of low- to moderate-income residents.

Contact Patrick Filbin at pfilbin@timesfreepress.com.
A 22-year-old man has died after he was shot in the head, while sitting in a rideshare vehicle in the South Shore early Thursday morning, Chicago police said.

Video Transcript

DIANE PATHIEU: And Tania, this morning one man is dead, and the suspects are still on the loose. Police say it happened this morning when a 22-year-old man jumped into a rideshare in the back seat of a car. A gray Volkswagen sedan pulled alongside that rideshare. Someone in the back of that car fired shots, hitting the victim in the head.

The rideshare driver then rushed to a nearby gas station in the 2300 block of East 75th Street, where the driver was able to flag down officers who were actually responding to the shots fired. The victim was pronounced dead there at the scene. After the shooting, the suspects crashed their car into a parked car in the 7500 block of South Clyde and then took off on foot.

Police tell us those suspects have not yet been found. No one is in custody. They also confirmed the victim does not appear to be known to police.
China hit out at the "dark history" of the US intelligence community Thursday, after President Joe Biden ordered a probe into the Covid-19 origins which threatens to set the course for relations between world's top economies.

Washington is reviewing its diplomatic position with China on issues spanning trade, technological supremacy and rights, while it steps up efforts to hook Western democracies into a united diplomatic front against perceived Chinese aggression.

The countries' trade envoys have held "candid" phone talks on the progress of a deal plotted as a pathway out of a trade war sparked by former President Donald Trump, which saw tariffs lumped on tens of billions of dollars of the rivals' goods.

But on Wednesday, President Biden reopened a barely healed sore between the countries by ordering US intelligence agencies to report to him within 90 days on whether the Covid-19 virus first emerged in China from an animal source or from a laboratory accident.

The lab-leak theory, initially trotted out by Trump then dismissed as "highly unlikely" by a delayed World Health Organization mission to China, has resurfaced in recent days, driven by Washington.

China is intensely sensitive to allegations it could have done more to stop the spread of a pandemic that has gone on to kill well over 3.4 million people and has eviscerated economies since emerging in the central Chinese city of Wuhan in late 2019.

Beijing rejects the theory the virus may have emerged from a virology lab in Wuhan and has instead accused the US of peddling "conspiracies" and politicising the pandemic.

The Biden administration's "motive and purposes are clear", Zhao Lijian a ministry of foreign affairs spokesman said on Thursday, rejecting the need for a new investigation into the pandemic.

"The dark history of the US intelligence community has long been known to the world," he added, referring to the US' unfounded allegations of weapons of mass destruction which led to its invasion of Iraq.

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Reviving the lab leak theory "is disrespectful to science... and also a disruption to the global fight against the pandemic", Zhao said.

But the idea of virus release from a Wuhan lab is gaining increasing traction in the United States.

Citing a US intelligence report, The Wall Street Journal reported Sunday that a trio from the Wuhan Institute of Virology were hospitalised with a seasonal illness in November 2019, a month before Beijing disclosed the existence of a mysterious pneumonia outbreak.

The natural origin hypothesis -- backed as the most likely by the WHO expert team who visited China -- holds that the virus emerged in bats then passed to humans, likely via an intermediary species.

This theory was widely accepted at the start of the pandemic, but as time has worn on, scientists have not found a virus in either bats or another animal that matches the genetic signature of SARS-CoV-2.

- Trade talks -

China is at pains to move on from the pandemic origin quest, driven by Western nations including Australia and the UK.

Instead it is focused on its economic rebound since squashing the pandemic inside its borders.

The commerce ministry on Thursday welcomed trade talks with Washington which are part of a deal to end the bruising trade war.

The two countries signed the so-called "phase 1" agreement in January 2020, in which Beijing pledged to increase its purchases of American products and services by at least $200 billion over 2020 and 2021.

But top US trade negotiator Katherine Tai has said she is analysing whether the terms of that pact have been met by China, with some experts saying Beijing is falling up to 40 percent short on its agreement to buy US goods.

The talks were the first between top trade envoys since Biden came to office and are significant given previous high-level contacts -- including a face-to-face meeting of foreign envoys in Alaska -- have collapsed in acrimony.

But the trade discussions are a matter of "diplomatic protocol more than about re-engagement" says Alex Capri, Research Fellow, Hinrich Foundation.

Despite Biden's less hawkish language, the US-China relationship appears on the "same trajectory as his predecessor", says Capri of "systemic rivalry, defined by techno-nationalist and neo-mercantilist competition."

burs-apj/je
Fluor Corporation has announced that IHI Corporation (IHI) of Japan is investing $20 million into NuScale Power LLC, a leading small modular nuclear reactor (SMR) technology company in which Fluor is the majority investor.

IHIs immediate investment of $20 million may be followed by another $20 million later. In addition to IHIs ownership interest, IHI will become a global manufacturing partner and have the opportunity to provide design services and heavy manufacturing of the steel plate reinforced concrete wall structures for NuScale SMR projects in which Fluor has the lead role.

IHIs decision to invest in NuScales leading-edge SMR technology is another concrete example of the growing interest in this industry-leading, carbon-free energy solution, said David Constable, chief executive officer, Fluor Corporation. This significant investment by IHI also aligns with Fluors strategy to bring aboard new strategic investors to NuScale.

The investment from IHI comes on the heels of a previously announced investment in NuScale and new strategic partnership by JGC Holdings Corporation with Fluor, further demonstrating the global support of NuScale. Fluor and NuScale are currently working for Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems (UAMPS) to bring the worlds first carbon-free SMR project to commercialisation.

Fluor has been serving the nuclear industry for more than 70 years including the design and construction support for more than 25 nuclear plants, plus nearly 100 million hours of nuclear operations and maintenance work.-- TradeArabia News Service
RIO DE JANEIRO (AP)  Hundreds of wildcat miners attacked police who were trying to halt illegal mining in the Brazilian Amazon region and then raided an Indigenous village, setting houses on fire, federal prosecutors in the northern state of Para reported.

The clashes came days after a Supreme Court justice ordered the government to protect Indigenous populations threatened in recent weeks by illegal miners who appear to have been emboldened by support for their industry from President Jair Bolsonaro.

The state prosecutor's office said miners tried to block a federal police operation by closing off entries to the municipality of Jacareacanga on Wednesday and trying to raid a police base where heavy equipment for the operation was kept.

Hours later, miners raided a village of the Munduruku people and set several houses on fire, including one that belonged to a prominent mining critic and indigenous activist, Maria Leusa Munduruku.

The attack followed clashes farther north in Roraima state, where miners in motorboats have repeatedly attacked and threatened a riverside Yanomami settlement known as Palimiu. There, miners also clashed with federal officials investigating the incidents.

Junior Hekurari Yanomami, president of a Yanomami association, told The Associated Press that two of the group's children drowned while fleeing during a particularly violent confrontation May 10 that also resulted in three miners being killed.

Federal prosecutors in Roraima have not been able to confirm any of the deaths, but said a police investigation was underway.

Clashes around the Palimiu community have intensified since April 24, when Yanomami men took fuel and some equipment from wildcat miners they accused of encroaching on their land, Hekurari and state prosecutors said.

Hekurari said miners have been driving their motorboats past the village almost daily, shouting threats and sometimes firing their guns.

People arent sleeping properly. They are very tired, Hekurari said in a Zoom call from Palimiu. He said Yanomami men keep watch each night.

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He alleged that miners have killed several people and raped women and girls  allegations not confirmed by federal prosecutors in the state, who said they were investigating.

Bolsonaro on Thursday was less than 100 kilometers (60 miles) from the vast Yanomami reserve to inaugurate a small wooden bridge along a federal highway that runs near a rich deposit of the mineral niobium that he has often touted as a potential economic boon for Brazil.

The conservative president has been outspoken about his desire to legalize mining in Indigenous territories  something not allowed under Brazil's constitution  and to promote development in the Amazon.

It isn't fair to want to criminalize the prospector in Brazil," Bolsonaro told supporters outside the presidential palace May 14, according to the newspaper Estado de S. Paulo. "People wearing suits and ties give their guesses about everything that's happening in rural areas.

Such comments have encouraged miners, say federal prosecutors, environmental and Indigenous rights activists.

There is a feeling of impunity in the country, that those who invade wont be penalized," said Juliana Batista, a lawyer who works at the Socio-Environmental Institute, an advocacy group.

The institute says some 20,000 illegal miners are suspected of working within the Yanomami Indigenous Territory, which is Brazils largest Indigenous reserve and roughly the size of Portugal. Some 27,000 Indigenous people live on that land.

Supreme Court Justice Luis Roberto Barroso this week ordered the federal government to immediately adopt all necessary measures to protect the life, health and safety of indigenous populations in Yanomami and Munduruku territory. He also accused the government for recalcitrance and lack of transparency in ensuring the health and safety of Indigenous groups.

Bolsonaro has repeatedly argued that Indigenous groups control too much territory, given their sparse population. He also says they should be integrated into broader society  a stance with which many communities disagree.

A March report published by two Indigenous associations, which used satellite imagery and flyovers, complained that the unusual proximity of some mining sites to Yanomami communities tends to fuel conflict.

Alisson Marugal, a prosecutor in Roraima state who has investigated clashes on Yanomami land, said from his office in the state capital of Boa Vista that illegal mining has brought prostitution, disease, drug and alcohol abuse and the loss of traditional ways of life.

"If nothing is done, conflicts with miners could lead to massacres, he said.
The U.S. Coast Guard airlifted a 75-year-old man with "health issues" who was stranded in a marsh near Charleston.

The man, who was not identified, was riding a jet ski when he ran aground near Edisto Beach, U.S. Coast Guard Jacksonville spokesperson David Micallef told Fox News.

The Charleston base attempted to rescue him, but due to how shallow the water was, any effort faced difficulty.

Instead, the Coast Guard diverted a rescue helicopter to airlift the man out, first dropping a swimmer to make his way out to the man and secure him in the airlift.

SOUTH CAROLINA TEACHER'S 173-POUND SHARK CONFIRMED AS A NEW STATE RECORD

The man claimed he had "health issues," but he did not clarify to the Coast Guard what kind of issues.

The helicopter took the man to a nearby golf course, where he was safely released.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

The man suffered no issues afterward, Micallef told Fox News.
A Columbia woman was killed in a shooting, the Sumter County Sheriffs Office said.

The body of 20-year-old Kalieah Green was found Tuesday afternoon by deputies who were investigating reports of gunfire, the sheriffs office said in a news release.

Green died at the scene and her body was discovered by deputies in the 4200 block of Hickory Road, according to the release. Thats in the Cherryvale area, between U.S. 378/Broad Street and S.C. 40.

No other injuries were reported by the sheriffs office.

There is no word on a shooter, or shooters, or a motive for the gunfire, but the sheriffs office said it could be connected to gang activity.

Based on what we have now, we think this incident was gang related, Sheriff Anthony Dennis said in the release.

No arrests have been reported by the sheriffs office, which continues to investigate the shooting.

Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to call the sheriffs office at 803-436-2000 or, CrimeStoppers at 888-CRIME-SC or submit an online tip.

This is a developing story, check back for updates.

The State, This Week

Want to know whats going on in the Grand Strand? The Upstate? The Lowcountry? Our newest South Carolina newsletter will bring you some of the best highlights of our statewide coverage. The newsletter is delivered straight to your inbox every Friday afternoon. Subscribe here.
CHICAGO (AP)  Throughout the murder trial, prosecutors showed jurors the video seen countless times around the world of the white police officer killing a Black male. And when it was over, the jurors found the officer guilty of murder.

That was in 2018. Now, as former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin waits to be sentenced for killing George Floyd, its worth remembering what happened in Chicago after a jury convicted a white police officer in the shooting death of 17-year-old Laquan McDonald: The judge didn't follow prosecutors recommended 18-20 years behind bars. Former officer Jason Van Dyke got a more lenient sentence  and might be released from prison in about three years.

It's possible things have changed. Floyd's horrific death touched off mass protests and calls for police reform that have rippled across the U.S. and in Congress. Chauvin could end up the exception, with a sentence of 30 years behind bars, particularly after the judge who will sentence him agreed Chauvin had committed particular cruelty in Floyds death. But if history is any indication, a slam-dunk sentence is not guaranteed.

That was filmmaker Spike Lees point when, shortly after the verdict, he said on CNN that he started worrying as soon as I heard the judge would be the one (who) would be the one that handed out the sentence. The jury, he said, got it right, but we dont know what this judge (will decide).

Much has been written about how rare it is for a police officer to be charged for an on-duty killing. Philip Stinson, a Bowling Green University criminal justice professor who tracks police prosecutions, has found that since 2005, just 142 non-federal police officers have been charged with murder or manslaughter for on-duty shootings.

Chauvin is part of an even smaller roster of officers who have actually been convicted in on-duty killings: According to Stinson's count, Chauvin is just the eighth officer convicted of murder for an on-duty killing.

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The officers convicted of murder for on-duty shootings were sentenced to an average of 16.4 years in prison, Stinson found. In comparison, the average sentence for a murder conviction in the United States was, just over 48.8 years as of 2018, according to a report released this year by the U.S. Department of Justices Bureau of Justice Statistics.

The average time they spend behind bars can be considerably less than that. Depending on the state, convicted felons can have as much as half their sentence lopped off if they behave themselves in prison. In Minnesota, the presumption is that defendants with good behavior will serve two-thirds of their sentences before they are released on parole.

What that means, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, is that the people who received decades-long sentences for murder or non-negligent manslaughter actually served an average of 17.8 years in state prison before they were released.

For police officers, it often translates to less than a decade behind bars. In Texas, for example, when a former Balch Springs police officer convicted of murder in the shooting death of an unarmed Black teenager was sentenced in 2018 to 15 years in prison, he knew hed be eligible for parole after serving 7.5 years.

That helps explain why in Illinois, Van Dyke's attorney sounded more like he'd won the case than lost it when the judge handed down what amounts to a three-year sentence.

He truly felt great. I mean, he was not just relieved, he was happy ... attorney Dan Herbert told reporters.

Under Minnesotas sentencing guidelines, Chauvin will only be sentenced for the most serious charge  second-degree murder  in Floyd's 2020 death. That meant that at the time Chauvin was convicted he faced a presumptive sentence of 12 1/2 years in prison, with the judge limited to sentencing him between 10 years and eight months to 15 years.

But in May, Judge Peter Cahill ruled that there Chauvin abused his authority as a police officer when he restrained Floyd in 2020 and that he treated Floyd with particular cruelty  aggravating factors that add much more more prison time.

The reasons why police officers seem to catch such a break at sentencing begin with one of the first things a prosecutor typically points to when asking for a stiff prison sentence: the defendants criminal history.

That, however, runs up against the reality that police officers rarely have any criminal history, for the simple reason that felony convictions get officers fired or prevent them from getting hired in the first place.

Sentences can go way up if someone has a felony record, said Robert Weisberg, a law professor at Stanford University and co-director of the Stanford Criminal Justice Center. Chauvin doesnt have that.

And there's another argument: Officers who otherwise have lived a lawful life can make a really strong argument that a long prison sentence isnt necessary to protect the public, that he ... wont be a threat to public safety, said Joseph McMahon, the special prosecutor who successfully prosecuted Van Dyke.

Chauvin, his attorneys can argue, won't commit a similar crime because he's no longer a police officer.

That's what a California judge said when he didnt follow a prosecutors request to sentence a former police officer convicted of involuntary manslaughter in a 2015 fatal shooting to four years in prison in favor of 180 days in jail and three years' probation.

He has absolutely no prior criminal record, the crime was committed because of very unusual, somewhat bizarre circumstances, which is very unlikely  in fact  will never occur again, Butte County Judge James F. Reilley said of former Paradise Police officer Patrick Feaster.

That doesnt mean prosecutors are defenseless, though.

During Van Dykes sentencing hearing, McMahon made sure the judge knew about his past, even if that past did not include any convictions.

I went through all the prior complaints against Jason Van Dyke and even though every one of was (determined to be) unfounded by Chicago Police, I found those individuals all across the country and had them testify about their experiences.

People like a Black man named Edward Nance. During Van Dyke's sentencing hearing, Nance tearfully recounted the day Van Dyke pulled him from his car, handcuffed him behind his back and dragged him to his squad car violently enough to rip rotator cuffs. Nance spoke of his constant physical pain, multiple surgeries, and anxiety and depression that more than a decade later made it impossible to sleep through the night.

That is the kind of witness available to Minnesota prosecutors if they wish, said McMahon.

___

Associated Press researcher Rhonda Shafner in New York contributed to this report.
By Cassandra Garrison

(Reuters) - Marine scientist Deborah Brosnan remembers "feeling like a visitor at an amazing party" on her diving trips to a bay near the Caribbean island of Saint Barthelemy where she swam above coral reefs with nurse sharks, sea turtles and countless colorful fish.

But on a return trip after Hurricane Irma ravaged the island in 2017, she dove the reef again - and was shocked by what she saw.

"Everything was dead," she recalled in an interview with Reuters. "There were no sharks, no sea turtles, no sea grass, no living coral. I felt like I lost my friends."

Recent research has shown that warmer atmospheric temperatures and sea level rise contribute to more frequent, destructive tropical storms.

Brosnan's experience helped spark a mission to create reef restoration technology. The project will span 1 hectare (2.6 acres) of dead reef off the coast of the Caribbean nation Antigua and Barbuda.

The project, known as Ocean-Shot, was announced Thursday at the Global Citizen's Forum. The technology, funded by U.S. entrepreneur John Paul DeJoria, the co-founder of Paul Mitchell hair products, mimics the design and shape of natural reefs to provide opportunities for colonization by corals and other marine life.

The built reef modules will also help protect the nearby coastal community from storm surge and sea level rise, project officials said.

Brosnan, whose Washington-based company is leading the efforts, said scientists will test new technologies aimed at speeding up coral growth, which naturally takes up to a decade to restore 1 hectare. A nearby coral nursery will also grow several species that will eventually help populate the reef replacement.

Ocean-Shot launches at a crucial time. Scientists estimate up to half the world's coral reefs have already been lost and the rest are at risk. (Graphic on coral reefs) https://tmsnrt.rs/3oXDKru

From the Caribbean to the western Pacific, the effects of climate change have led to coral bleaching, a worrying uptick in ocean acidification and relentless hurricanes that have wreaked havoc on the world's reefs, Brosnan said.

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It has been a challenge, too, to draw attention to the plight of coral reef.

"A lot of people don't fully appreciate the state of the ocean because they don't see it," Brosnan said.

Coral reefs support more than 25% of marine biodiversity, including turtles, fish and lobsters, which fuel global fishing industries. The reef is like an apartment building, Brosnan said, with different species living on each floor from the basement to the penthouse.

Serving as protective barriers for coastal communities against wave action, the coral reefs enable people to set up homes and businesses closer to the ocean.

Coral reefs mitigate sand flow to beaches, replenishing the sparkling white beaches that make the Caribbean a global tourist hot spot. The sand itself is thanks to coral and a very important local species that feeds on it.

"The white sandy beach on a tropical island is actually parrotfish poop," Brosnan said.

If the world's remaining reefs continue to die, Brosnan predicts a major financial impact on fishing and tourism that island nations rely upon, which could fuel migration to more developed countries.

"It's a real concern as to where you can live if the coral reef disappears, how you can make a living if the fisheries are gone and where you have to move now," she said.

After the project's implementation in Antigua and Barbuda, officials hope to replicate Ocean-Shot in other locations in the Caribbean and Latin America, Brosnan said, adding there could be scope to bring it to other regions.

(Reporting by Cassandra Garrison in Mexico City; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, left, at a meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Sisi at the Heliopolis Presidential Palace in Cairo on Wednesday. (Alex Brandon / Pool Photo)

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken's first peace mission to the Middle East highlighted the complex and fraught relationships the Biden administration must rebuild to avert wider warfare in the region.

Blinken wrapped up the 48-hour swing through Israel, the Palestinian territories, Egypt and Jordan late Wednesday after holding sustained meetings with four very different leaders who had contradictory ties with former President Trump.

On Wednesday in Cairo, Blinken met behind closed palatial doors at the sun-drenched, palm-lined compound of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Sisi, whom Trump embraced as his "favorite dictator." Hours later he sat in Amman with Jordan's King Abdullah II, widely considered one of the region's top moderates, but who had difficulty getting a meeting with Trump.

On Tuesday, Blinken's agenda included Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who enjoyed unquestioning support from Trump, and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, whom Trump shunned, along with most Palestinian leadership.

Blinken is confronted with the task of returning all of those relationships to a more traditional, evenhanded footing. Sisi and Netanyahu, the two who enjoyed Trump's favor, are particularly complicated challenges. Sisi, a former general who seized power in a 2013 coup, has an abysmal human rights record, which includes the imprisonment and torture of critics. Netanyahu is on trial for corruption and heads a state that is widely seen as a repressor of Palestinian rights.

Jordan's King Abdullah II speaks during a meeting with Secretary of State Antony Blinken at Bayt Al Urdon, Wednesday. (Alex Brandon / Pool photo)

"Our meetings today in Cairo and Amman, indeed this whole trip, reflect a fundamental reality," Blinken said in a news conference in Jordan on Wednesday night. "If we want to avoid a return to the harrowing violence of recent weeks, the countries of this region need to help and support one another."

Blinken's Mideast mission was hastily arranged after the U.S. helped push a cease-fire between Israel and the militant group Hamas following an 11-day war that devastated the Gaza Strip.

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Abdullah, Netanyahu and Abbas have expressed gratitude for President Biden's interest in the region, some in more effusive terms than others. Sisi has not commented publicly. Through his long diplomatic and political career, Blinken already knew Abdullah, Netanyahu and Abbas, but not Sisi. Their meeting Wednesday was a first.

Blinken described intense and fruitful discussions with the leaders he met but had few initiatives to announce.

"Securing the cease-fire was important, particularly because of the devastating toll violence took on families on both sides," Blinken said. "But we see the cease-fire not as an end, but as a beginning, something to build on."

The U.S. has pledged millions of dollars in additional aid and will reopen a consulate in Jerusalem to handle Palestinian affairs, thus beginning an upgrade in U.S.-Palestinian ties all but destroyed under Trump. Egypt has pledged $500 million in reconstruction aid for the Gaza Strip. Even Israel has eased restrictions on fishing by Gazans along their coast.

But Blinken and the region's leaders want to be careful to not let aid and future development projects benefit Hamas, viewed by Washington as a terrorist organization.

Asked how more concrete improvements could be put in place, Blinken said there had to be a "process" that evaluated needs and where the money can most effectively be spent, involving the U.S. the United Nations, Egypt, Israel, the Palestinian Authority  and not Hamas. Without saying, he was describing a bureaucracy that could easily get bogged down in political infighting or other problems.

"Were working to put together the right process, the right mechanism to do that," Blinken said. "And it really does start with assessing exactly whats needed and then how to address the need. And again, just to make the clear distinction, we have  and this is already moving  urgent humanitarian requirements, as Ive said, particularly water, electricity, sanitation. Thats already moving forward with different things moving into Gaza as we speak."

Blinken said he would turn to Persian Gulf states in the coming days to seek more support. Qatar, which is friendly with Hamas, announced Wednesday it would provide $500 million for Gaza's reconstruction, the satellite news network Al Jazeera reported.

We will continue to support our brothers in Palestine to reach a just and lasting solution by establishing their independent state, Qatari Foreign Minister Sheik Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Thani tweeted Wednesday.

Al Jazeera also reported on a Wednesday news conference in Gaza by Hamas leader Yehiyeh Sinwar and quoted him as saying he welcomed international aid and oversight, as long as it did not come from Israel.

But he complained bitterly of Blinken's efforts to boost Abbas' Palestinian Authority and sideline Hamas. They are trying to add more fuel to the fire of Palestinian division, Sinwar said.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
(Bloomberg) -- Credit Suisse Group AGs top financial services banker is leaving the firm for Jefferies Financial Group Inc. along with at least three colleagues, as departures accelerate at the scandal-plagued firm.

Alejandro Przygoda, global head of financial institutions, is joining Jefferies along with Carlos Marque, Fitzgerald Woolcott and Henry Kong, according to people familiar with the matter, who asked to not be identified because the matter isnt public.

The departures follow a wave of exits from Credit Suisse in the wake of debacles involving Archegos Capital Management and supply-chain finance firm Greensill Capital. The financial-institutions group has seen at least four senior exits in recent weeks, with defections to Barclays Plc, Bank of America Corp. and Goldman Sachs Group Inc.

Representatives for Credit Suisse and Jefferies declined to comment. The bankers didnt respond to requests for comment.

Przygoda, who focuses on deals in the insurance sector, joined Credit Suisse in 2011 from Greenhill & Co. Prior to that he had worked at UBS Group AG and Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette, according to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority.

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KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The COVID-19 pandemic is reshaping the lives of people across the globe and has made inclusive digital connectivity more important than ever. The digital divide is unfairly affecting many people's access to online working, education, socialising, entertainment, opportunities and inclusion in their communities. As a region, we have the opportunity to leverage digital technologies to respond to these challenges and build the foundation for the economic recovery of tomorrow.

Mr Dennis Xiao is the President of Carrier Business Group, Asia Pacific region of Huawei Technologies. In his current capacity, he is responsible for the company's overall carrier business and strategic management in the Asia Pacific Region.

Asia Pacific has a population of 4.2 billion and is one of the most diverse regions in the world, home to economies that are leading the digital revolution with Internet usage exceeding 90 per cent, as well as under-developed countries where ICT use struggles to take hold and Internet usage sits below 15 per cent. Ironically, more than 96 per cent of the population is within reach of a 3G signal and over 94 per cent is within reach of an LTE signal.

According to estimates by the ITU, active mobile broadband subscriptions per 100 inhabitants reached 76.6 per 100 inhabitants in 2020, exceeding the world average by 1.6 subscriptions per 100 inhabitants. Yet, even with both mobile and fixed markets growing over the last four years, only 37 per cent of households in rural areas had access to the Internet compared to 70 per cent for those in urban areas.

More importantly, a recent study by the ITU measuring the impact of mobile broadband and digital transformation on the economy as a whole in Asia Pacific revealed that a ten per cent increase in mobile broadband penetration would result in a 0.5 per cent increase in GDP per capita respectively.

The increased demand for bandwidth, capacity, quality of service and overall quality of experience as a result of social distancing programs including working and studying from home in 2020 has increased the importance of harmonised IMT spectrum available globally.

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To serve nations during economic recovery efforts, governments and regulators must accelerate the assignment of IMT spectrum. Research from Coleago Consulting on mid-band 5G spectrum needs in APAC typical country shows that careful consideration of 5G spectrum demand in the 2025-2030 time frame is crucial. According to the research, APAC regulators will need to make at least 1 GHz available for the development of 5G, including FWA.

C-band, sitting between the two Wi-Fi bands, has proven itself to be the perfect balance between coverage and capacity, however, technical obstacles due to satellite coexistence has caused delays in its release.

In addition, strengthening regional support for the use of licensed spectrum at 6GHz will help industries deploy ubiquitous 5G solutions rather than relying on a combination of fragmented mobile IMT and wireless IEEE technologies that plague many enterprises today. Removing these issues more quickly will help address the limited percentage of harmonised IMT spectrum licensed currently which sits between 40 to 60 per cent of the total harmonised IMT spectrum.

Rolling out large scale mobile services is expensive. Sufficient spectrum is the most critical factor to ensure operators have the ability to deploy effective broadband coverage, and the knowledge that more spectrum is available in future, will accelerate their long-term investments in digital infrastructure.

Regulators, operators and industry players should come together to recognise digital transformation, led by mobile connectivity, will benefit all involved.

4G continues to be developed, deployed and optimised and many countries in Asia Pacific have devised a strategy to leverage 4G infrastructure first and better understand best practices before moving to 5G. As such, continued investment is critical and operators and vendors should strive to strengthen 4G by focusing on experience-based network construction, meeting coverage obligations, and developing a low-price terminal ecosystem.

In addition to improved bandwidth and capacity, one major benefit of 5G is its proven ability to provide a cost-effective alternative for high-speed broadband connections at home. In addition to providing coverage where fixed networks are non-existent, 5G Fixed Wireless Access quickly matches the demand for increased bandwidth in the home.

This trend should not be considered solely as a stop-gap during the pandemic, and rather be considered a long-term legitimate alternative to fiber, providing low-latency, zero-touch services with fast deployment and flexible tariffs. FWA can easily be extended to campuses to provide immediate broadband coverage to industries including healthcare, education, shipping, manufacturing, mining and more.

Going forward, countries should consider FWA as a significant part of their digital evolution and a valid component of their national broadband strategy. It provides an affordable alternative to traditional fixed broadband and is a critical element to bridge the digital divide.

COVID-19 has made it clear that telecommunication services are now a fundamental utility for society. In June 2020, the Economic Experts Roundtable organised by ITU concluded that "countries with top connectivity infrastructure could mitigate up to half of the negative economic shock of the pandemic."

Connectivity has become increasingly valuable and any delays in deploying new technologies and services that would improve it, will end in increased cost. As a result, many nations are accelerating the deployment of improved digital infrastructure and the assignment of globally harmonised IMT spectrum.

As a short-term regulatory initiative to help operators provide better network access and improved quality of service during the pandemic, some regulators have temporarily allowed more flexible IMT spectrum use including the use of vacant and unused spectrum. This initiative needs to be rolled up into a larger plan for continued use of these spectrum assets with industry consensus on low spectrum prices, deferred payment options, and innovative auction strategies that better align with overall digital goals.

Improving ICT infrastructure must be more than a goal for just consumers, operators and governments. It will fundamentally change the way we produce goods, order our meals, provide critical healthcare services, entertain ourselves and make our livelihoods.

Connectivity will play a key role as people and businesses want to harness the power of cloud and artificial intelligence in the palms of their hands and throughout an Internet of Things.

Spectrum, as the gatekeeper to our mobile connectedness, is even more critical and must be both affordable and abundant. Ample IMT spectrum, including C-Band and licensed 6GHz, will be a key enabler of the future competitiveness and innovation of Asia Pacific.

Mr. Dennis Xiao is the President of Carrier Business Group, Asia Pacific region of Huawei Technologies. In his current capacity, he is responsible for the overall carrier business and strategic management of the company in the Asia Pacific Region. Mr. Xiao has more than 20 years of experience in the telecommunications industry. Since joining Huawei in 1999, Mr. Xiao has served various managerial positions including the company's Belarus Country General Manager and President of Southeast Asia Carrier Business Group.

SOURCE Huawei Technologies
The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) opened Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2021 with an impressive stand highlighting the breadth of Saudis product offering and an array of partnerships.

As Saudi prepares to reopen its borders, STA is showcasing its strength as a leisure destination through an immersive pavilion which brings to life Saudis exciting, diverse tourism offer.

Over the course of the four-day event, visitors will be invited to embark on their own Saudi journey through an interactive deep-dive into its top destinations and resorts, from the pristine coastline of the Red Sea to the breathtaking heritage sites of Hegra, AlUla and Diriyah, outside Riyadh.

At the event, Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of Saudi Tourism Authority, will address travel trade professionals at the Saudi Arabia Tourism Summit, a dedicated buyer forum for Saudi, to highlight the unique business opportunities offered by a country that just opened up to international tourism in September 2019.

We are bringing together our partners across the industry to showcase Saudis readiness to welcome international visitors, safely and seamlessly.

As STA continues to develop Saudis tourism offering for local, regional and international travelers, the strength of our presence at ATM 2021 reflects our commitment to fostering a rich environment for building quality partnerships.

We are committed, we are confident and we are ready to open Saudi's doors and hearts to the world," said Hamidaddin.

Since its launch in June 2020, STA has worked with travel trade partners to successfully grow their business and drive visitation to Saudi. The Saudi pavilion at ATM 2021 will host exhibitors from across the tourism ecosystem, representing the best Saudi has to offer.

In addition to dedicated buyer forums and conference sessions with international speakers, ATM Dubai will offer networking opportunities and expert panels discussing a range of key topics including hospitality, aviation and technology. The theme of this years event is A new dawn for travel and tourism, focusing on how tourism destinations are recovering from Covid-19 and the future of the industry as confidence is restored. - TradeArabia News Service
The mother of detained Belarusian journalist Roman Protasevich, Natalia Protasevich attends a press conference at the Belarusian House Foundation on May 27, 2021 in Warsaw, Poland. Omar Marques/Getty Images

The parents of detained Belarusian journalist Roman Protasevich held a press conference Thursday.

His mother begged the European Union and the United States to help free her son.

She also said her son was being tortured while in custody.

See more stories on Insider's business page.

The mother of detained Belarusian journalist Roman Protasevich is begging the European Union and the United States to help free her son.

Roman Protasevich, one of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko's most vocal critics, was detained on May 23 after being removed from a Ryanair flight that was diverted due to a bogus bomb threat.

He's been accused of terrorism and inciting anti-government riots in a case that's drawn international condemnation.

Natalia Protasevich and her husband, Dzmitry Protasevich, spoke about their son at a press conference at the Belarusian House Foundation in Warsaw, Poland, on Thursday, according to Radio Poland.

While asking for help from the EU and US, the Protaseviches also said their son has been tortured while in custody.

Read the original article on Business Insider
May 27Detectives with the Grant County Sheriff's Office are seeking information or video footage to help their investigation of a man whose body was found Wednesday morning on the side of Airway Drive, near Cochran Road Northeast.

According to GCSO Spokesman Kyle Foreman, a passing motorist reported the body at around 4:30 a.m. Detectives were at the scene until around 10:30 a.m. and are investigating the matter "as a homicide."

In a social media post, Foreman said they believe the death occurred sometime between 2:30 a.m. and 3 a.m. Foreman said detectives hope someone who lives along Airway Drive might have captured "something of interest" in surveillance video, rather than any video of a particular act.

Foreman said he had no details about the cause of death or the man's identity, which would be released following an autopsy and notification of the man's next of kin, expected to take place on Thursday.

He also said GCSO investigators do not know if the homicide is related to a drive-by shooting in the Larson community early Wednesday, which damaged a home and parked vehicle in the 1400 block of Arnold Drive, but injured no one.

Deputies at the Larson sheriff's substation and residents heard four or five gunshots around 2 a.m., according to a GCSO social media post. It was suspected the shots were fired from a vehicle.

Anyone with information on either crime can call 509-762-1160 or send information to crimetips@grantcountywa.gov. Tipsters can remain anonymous.

Charles H. Featherstone can be reached at chfeatherstone@columbiabasinherald.com.
Wayne County Jail in downtown Detroit is pictured, Michigan on March 30, 2020. ((Photo by JEFF KOWALSKY / AFP))

Sixteen years after Michigan judge Bruce Morrow helped a troubled young man, Edward Martell, avoid a lengthy prison sentence for drug dealing, the same official swore in the one-time criminal to practise law in the state.

Mr Martell, who dropped out of school at 17, left his single-parent home and began drug dealing, first arrived in Mr Morrows courtroom in 2005, after being arrested in a drug sting in Dearborn Heights Michigan.

Instead of giving Mr Martell, who is Latino, a lengthy prison sentence for making and selling crack cocaine, which couldve lasted up to 20 years, the judge instead challenged the man to complete three years of probation and come back to the court as an executive.

I can imagine Ed  being a Brown man, coming from an economically depressed environment, having been chased by police and put in handcuffs  never thinking this is where the love could come from, Mr Morrow told the Washington Post, adding. It was kind of in jest, but he understood I believed he could be anything he wanted to be.

After completing probation, Mr Martell went to community college in 2008, where he said instructors discouraged him from pursuing law due to his criminal background and instead said he should consider one of the trades.

At that time I was just a felon with a dream, Mr Martel told The Post. They advised me to [study] heating and cooling.

(Despite serving prison time commonly referred to as paying your debt to society, felons in the US are often barred from employment, voting, housing, and other means of advancement even after completing their sentences.)

Mr Martell graduated three years later, going on to pursue an undergraduate degree and law school at University of Detroit Mercy on a full scholarship, before clerking at the federal public defenders office in Washington DC and working as a legal researcher.

The aspiring lawyer and the judge kept in touch throughout the process, and Mr Morrow eventually vouched for Mr Martell as part of the Michigan bar examinations lengthy background check process.

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This year, his dream came true.

I sobbed like a baby, Mr Martell told Deadline Detroit, which first reported this story.

Judge Morrow attended his final confirmation hearing, handing him a handkerchief once the aspiring lawyer became emotional.

Now it sits framed in Mr Martells office at Perkins Law Group, a criminal law firm.

The US criminal justice system often comes down disproportionately hard on people of colour, but the Michigan judge says his motto is inspired by a lyric from the Motown group the Velvelettes: Everybody needs love.

Its a crazy cliche, but some defendants, thats what they need, too, he told Deadline Detroit. If you believe like I believe, that there but for the grace of God go you and me ... It took some intelligence to get in and out of the kind of trouble he got into. I told him, You could be my son. Lets see how far you can go. And man, he hasnt finished yet.

Read More

Maneskin say they're offended about drug use allegations

Michigan man exonerated of murder after 32 years in prison

AP Interview: Michigan official warns of democracy threats
The Jersey Shore was synonymous with summer for Veronas Scott Chesney, whose family vacationed in Lavallette, New Jersey, every year until a stroke took his legs out from under him at the age of 15.

Now 50, Chesney has stayed away for decades. The thin wheels of his wheelchair were too easily bogged down in the sand and made his idea of heaven on earth unreachable.

For decades, wheelchair users had few options as beach wheelchairs with wheels large enough to navigate sand were in short supply, advocates and families said. But awareness, and mobility options, are finally growing at beaches.

Accessibility blog Wonders Within Reach has a list of the most-accessible East Coast beaches, by taking into account those that offer wheelchairs, surf chairs that can go into the water and accessible restrooms.

Veronas Scott Chesney didnt return to his beloved ocean for over 30 years when beach wheelchairs started popping up along the Jersey Shore.

New Jersey beaches: 5 family-friendly beaches at the Jersey Shore

Jennifer Allen, 37, of Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, tried various workarounds to get her 5-year-old, Jaden, who has spina bifida, onto the beach.

We had experimented with every kind of wheel," she said. "We had an all-terrain wagon and an all-terrain stroller, but none of those could get across the sand. We wanted to make the beach a part of every summer. But it was a nightmare.

"You dont realize how inaccessible the world is until you have someone who cant use their legs, Allen said.

But she and her husband, Phillip Allen, 38, were determined to show the world to their son. They decided to travel to beaches up and down the East Coast and founded Wonders Within Reach to share their findings.

Jaden Allen, 5, of Elizabethtown, Pa., enjoys the beach thanks to beach wheelchairs designed not to get bogged down in the sand.

From Florida to New Jersey, they investigated and came away with the conclusion that beach accessibility was hit or miss. St. Petersburg, Florida, had no beach wheelchairs, but Clearwater offered options, Allen said.

Ralph Coscia, president of Citizens' Right to Access Beaches in Ocean County, New Jersey, said he started providing a free beach chair service to anyone who needed it in the early 2000s.

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Coscia and Allen said accessibility at beaches is getting better.

Around 2010 to 2015, people started to get a little more involved and became more aware of ADA access to beaches, said Coscia, referring to requirements included in the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. Rebuilding after Superstorm Sandy in 2012 gave New Jersey towns another chance to improve accessibility.

In order for them to get (sand for beach) replenishing supplies they had to be more ADA-compliant, he said.

Surf wheelchair users sit in a recumbent position between pontoons that serve as both armrests and floatation devices.

For Chesney, the solution arrived in 2004 in Asbury Park, New Jersey, where he came across a beach chair that looked like a recumbent bicycle. It had pontoons for armrests that kept the chair afloat in the ocean.

The first time I tried it out I was with two other people with disabilities and what was amazing was, we all had different intentions. Somebody just wanted to get to the beach for the first time; he was accommodated. The next one just wanted to put her feet in the water; she was accommodated. I wanted to go as far out into the ocean as possible and I was accommodated. It was amazing. It was great getting back into the ocean, said Chesney.

Surf wheelchairs allow users to enjoy the water.

"Many beaches are becoming more accessible, he said, with ramps that extend beyond boardwalks and foldable mats and decking to extend even a typical wheelchairs reach.

These things werent even heard of back in 1986. Your family had to carry you onto the beach, said Chesney, who has taken up surfing in recent years.

Still, theres room for improvement.

A fully accessible day at the beach would not just include a beach chair, ramp and mats, but also a place to change, advocates said. Even an accessible bathroom doesnt do the trick when theres no place to sit up with your legs out in front of you while changing.

Chesney tries to make do with the floor of his van. "A lot of people when they are done swimming for the day want to get out of their wet clothes. The last thing that somebody wants to do with a mobility disability is sit in wet clothing. It can create skin issues and other issues, he said.

Want to give a beach chair a shot? Take a look at Allens list of accessible shore towns at wonderswithinreach.com.

Coscia warns that demand can still outstrip supply.

I would suggest they call the town and check," he said. "It is first-come, first-served. So if you get there later in the day, they may not have anything available. Some places will only transport you onto the beach and take you off the beach (in the rental chair), and you work on their schedules. So when you check with the municipalities, check what their procedures are."

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Beach wheelchair, surf wheelchair access uneven but growing
The world is increasingly likely to see a year in which global average surface temperatures meet or exceed the Paris Agreement's ambitious temperature target of 1.5C (2.7F) above preindustrial levels, a new report predicts.

Why it matters: Limiting warming to 1.5C is an existential matter for small island states, which could be swamped by rising sea levels if temperatures climb higher. While a single year would not indicate the treaty's 1.5-degree target has been exceeded permanently, it would be a significant milestone.

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The report serves as another indication that the world is running out of time to limit global warming to levels that society and natural systems can tolerate.

Based on recent emissions trends, temperatures are on course to reach or possibly exceed 3C (5.4F) above preindustrial levels by 2100.

Yes, but: When it comes to taking stock of global warming, what matters are trends over decades, not individual years.

Still, optics nonetheless matter with these climate thresholds, and even temporarily reaching or exceeding the 1.5-degree target would likely be seen as an indication of the urgency for action to slash emissions of planet-warming greenhouse gases.

The big picture: Studies have shown that limiting global warming to 1.5C above preindustrial levels would have a much greater chance of avoiding potentially disastrous outcomes. These include the widespread loss of coral reefs and triggering runaway feedback loops, such as the collapse of large parts of the Antarctic Ice Sheet.

Details: The report, led by the U.K. Met Office with the participation of scientists from the U.S. and other nations and distributed via the U.N.'s World Meteorological Organization (WMO), says there is a 40% chance that the 1.5-degree target will be temporarily reached in at least one of the next five years.

By the numbers: The analysis pegs the likelihood at 90% that at least one year during the 2021-2025 period will be the warmest on record, knocking 2016 and 2020 out of the top spot (the two years were virtually tied).

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The chance of temporarily bumping up against the 1.5C temperature anomaly "has roughly doubled" compared to last year's predictions, the report says  an indication that time is quickly running out to avoid hitting or exceeding the target over a longer time period.

However, it's unlikely 2021 will be the one to set the next warmest-year record, given the lingering influence of a waning La Nina episode in the tropical Pacific Ocean.

The report, known as the "Global Annual to Decadal Climate Update," finds that the annual global average temperature is likely to be at least 1C (1.8F) above preindustrial levels (defined as the 1850-1900 average) during each of the coming five years, ranging from 0.9C to 1.8C.

Of note: For now, the report finds, it's "very unlikely" that the five-year period will have an overall average temperature departure from average of 1.5C or higher.

What they're saying: "This study shows, with a high level of scientific skill, that we are getting measurably and inexorably closer to the lower target of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change," said WMO secretary-general Petteri Taalas in a statement.

"It is yet another wakeup call that the world needs to fast-track commitments to slash greenhouse gas emissions and achieve carbon neutrality," he said.

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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  The European Union on Thursday called on Iran to review a case of a prominent female human rights activist who was sentenced to 30 months in prison and 80 lashes on charges of protesting against the killing of protesters during the country's 2019 unrest.

A spokesperson for the bloc urged Iran to look into the case of Narges Mohammadi under applicable international human rights law and taking into account her deteriorating health condition.

Earlier this week, Mohammadi confirmed her sentence in an Instagram post and said she does not accept any of these sentences.

The recent sentencing of the Iranian human rights defender Mrs Narges Mohammadi to prison term and flogging is a worrying development, the EU said.

In the post, Mohammadi said one of the charges against her is having a party and dancing in jail.

She was released from jail in October 2020, after serving eight and a half years in prison, after her initial, 10-year sentence was commuted. In that case, she was sentenced in Tehrans Revolutionary Court on charges including planning crimes to harm the security of Iran, spreading propaganda against the government and forming and managing an illegal group.

Before imprisonment she also was vice-president of the banned Defenders of Human Rights Center in Iran.

Mohammadi has been close to Iranian Nobel Peace Prize laureate Shirin Ebadi, who founded tyhe center. Ebadi left Iran after the disputed re-election of then-President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in 2009, which touched off unprecedented protests and harsh crackdowns by authorities.

In 2018, Mohammadi, an engineer and physic, was awarded the 2018 Andrei Sakharov Prize.
Privacy organisations on Thursday complained to regulators in five European countries over the practices of Clearview AI, a company that has built a powerful facial recognition database using images "scraped" from the web.

Clearview's use of images -- including those from people's social media accounts -- to offer biometrics services to private companies and law enforcement "goes far beyond what we could ever expect as online users", Ioannis Kouvakas, legal officer at Privacy International, said in a statement.

While Clearview touts its technology's ability to help law enforcement, its critics say facial recognition is open to abuse and could ultimately eliminate anonymity in public spaces -- pointing to cases like China's massive public surveillance system.

Facial recognition has also been attacked for failing to distinguish non-white people's faces and women as well as it can identify white, male images -- potentially leading to false positives.

Alongside three other digital rights organisations, PI has filed complaints with data regulators in France, Austria, Italy, Greece and Britain.

"We expect them to join forces in ruling that Clearview's practices have no place in Europe, which would have meaningful ramifications for the company's operations globally," PI said.

In February, Canada's privacy commissioner found that the firm's activity "is mass surveillance and it is illegal" under the country's privacy laws.

And British and Australian privacy watchdogs last year launched a joint probe of their own.

"Just because something is 'online' does not mean it is fair game to be appropriated by others in any which way they want to -- neither morally nor legally," said Alan Dahi, a data protection lawyer at Austrian privacy group Noyb.

Clearview came to public prominence in a January 2020 New York Times report that detailed how it was already working with law enforcement, including the US FBI and Department of Homeland Security.

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On its website, it boasts the "largest known database of 3+ billion facial images sourced from public-only web sources, including news media, mugshot websites, public social media, and many other open sources".

Founder Hoan Ton-That acknowledged to the NYT at the time that Clearview was breaching the terms of service of Facebook and other social media sites by gathering users' photos.

Facebook, Twitter, YouTube (Google) and LinkedIn (Microsoft) have all protested against Clearview's practices.

And last year, tech firms including Microsoft and Amazon suspended sales of facial recognition software to police forces when confronted with 2020's Black Lives Matter movement.

Amazon last week extended the original one-year moratorium "until further notice".

But "tools for conducting facial recognition are widely available" even outside the big tech companies, according to journalist Nicolas Kayser-Bril, who complied a report on the technology for advocacy group AlgorithmWatch last year that found at least 10 European police forces using it.

tgb/lth
Purna Prasad's phone buzzed with urgent WhatsApp messages from family and friends detailing the dire situation in India, his home country he emigrated from 34 years ago, as Covid-19 cases were surging across the nation.

In a matter of weeks, the Long Island, New York, resident would learn his father-in-law, 86, died from the virus and over a dozen more family members and friends in Bangalore became infected.

Purna Prasad's father-in-law, Dr. Sripada Rao. (Courtesy Purna Prasad)

Experts say the collective grief the community is experiencing  with more than 300,000 deaths in the country, a number experts say is likely much higher  is uniquely profound given that so many across the diaspora have been impacted. This type of large-scale tragedy has never happened on the South Asian subcontinent, said K. Vish Viswanath, a professor at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

There are more people that are a part of Indian diaspora than any other time in history. Second, we are spread all over the world. Third, it's a media age: We can see the tragedy happening in South Asia. Social media is interconnecting us, and WhatsApp, we are hearing from family and friends, and that gets amplified, he said. Everyone is touched by this.

Prasad is one of about 18 million Indians living outside the subcontinent who have witnessed the devastating effects of the second Covid-19 wave in India.

At a San Francisco-area Hindu temple, people have been stopping by to pray for loved ones overseas who have been affected by Covid-19, according to the temples head priest, Balakrishna Kambhampati, whose uncle died from the virus and whose son and mother, all who live in India, have been infected as well. One of the temples members, Deep Agarwal, told NBC Bay Area he was using the temple as a place to grieve and seek hope after more than 20 of his family members were infected.

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In early May, India registered over 400,000 positive Covid-19 cases in one day and set a record with 3,689 deaths on May 2. Then, weeks later, the country saw 4,529 deaths in one day. To date, the country has reached more than 25 million confirmed cases.

The sheer number of infections and deaths in India has spurred fear and worry for many in the South Asian diaspora, Viswanath said.

There is a sense of grief and concern and anxiety among people of South Asian descent, Viswanath said. We all have family, extended family back home who we are worried about.

With limited options of hopping on a flight to be closer to family during this time, several people in the South Asian diaspora who spoke to NBC Asian America expressed an overwhelming sense of helplessness as they watched and listened to family members describe the situation unfolding in India.

This sort of helplessness is a form of invisible trauma that has become common in the pandemic era, according to Dorothy Holinger, author of The Anatomy of Grief. She described the phenomenon as collective grief, one that is different from the collective grief experienced by Americans during World War I, World War II or the Sept. 11 attacks.

Holinger said the grief people in the Indian diaspora are feeling right now is relentless.

"The collective grief that millions of Indians living elsewhere share is a sorrow that is connected to their mother country for the loved ones and friends lost to Covid," she said. "Helplessness can be paralyzing, and it's a trauma that is distant. The inability to be there to know what is going on emotionally and cognitively, I can imagine, affects a persons sleep, appetite and many bodily functions. This invisible trauma is having a huge effect on people."

Holinger added that the body undergoes changes while bereaving.

The heart beats faster; blood pressure goes up; feeling faint, queasy; saliva dries up; the face loses color; and sweaty palms: These are some of the physical changes that happen as new, acute grief affects the brain and the body, she said.

Meesha Patel, 29, of Houston, shared similar feelings of helplessness as she watched her father mourn the loss of her uncle, his brother, after he died of Covid-19 on March 22.

I felt really uneasy, Patel recalled as she watched her father grow increasingly worried about his brother in the days leading up to his death. Like, I can't be there. How do I go out there to help them? How can I help them from being here? It's just this feeling of shock and helplessness.

Patels aunt had to take her uncle to three different hospitals in Anand, Gujarat, all while he was experiencing serious Covid-19 symptoms. It was the fourth hospital that eventually admitted her uncle, Jagdish Patel, but by that time, his health had deteriorated so rapidly that he died. He was 63 years old.

Meesha Patel's uncle Jagdish Patel. (Courtesy Meesha Patel)

You're on the other side of the world. I mean, it's really difficult, and even right now listening to all the things that are happening in India, it's really tough, Patel said. I have that feeling like, well, I wish I could be there and do something.

Experts are attributing the surge in cases to a number of factors, including mass religious gatherings like the weekslong Kumbh Mela in Haridwar in April and political events like the assembly elections in the state of West Bengal and rallies hosting thousands of supporters by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party. Although new Covid-19 cases are starting to subside, the country's total of more than 25 million cases trails just behind the United States' more than 32 million.

Patel, who volunteers for Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha, a nonprofit group providing aid to people on the ground in India, has been fundraising and raising money for Covid-19 relief aid to send to India. She recently finished a vaccine drive in Houston, too.

Meesha Patel, a Houston resident, said her uncle died of Covid-19 in India in March. (Courtesy Meesha Patel)

Those who are grieving but also have the capacity or ability to help in times of traumatic events may see their grief tempered, Holinger said.

If people are able to help in an active way, it can be wonderfully healing, she said. People talking to their relatives or sending them care packages is really moving forward for their grief, and it is a way for grief to be subdued.

Viswanath said the response has been unprecedented.

I am getting calls all the time of people asking how they can help, he said. What this news coverage has mobilized people to do  something individually and collectively  and I have not seen this before.

Prasad and his wife have also tried to stay active by supporting their family from afar, whether thats taking phone calls from relatives, fundraising or sending remittances, sums of money diaspora communities send to relatives in other nations.

Purna Prasad, a New York resident, said his father-in-law and father-in-law's brother have both died from Covid-19 in India. (Courtesy Purna Prasad)

The monetary support Prasad has sent to India has increased by about 15 percent. Its a cost he said he wants to bear if it means keeping his relatives alive.

It's a question of survival for them, he said, referring to his family in India. They need to be sequestered at home. They need to have their food delivered, their medication delivered. Whatever is needed, we will provide for them, even if we have to cut something short here.

The ability to offer support, aside from monetary or physical aid, can also be helpful and help people cope with their grief, said A. Naomi Paik, associate professor of global Asian studies and criminology, law and justice at the University of Illinois, Chicago.

"It doesn't have to be around material aid," she said. "Just helping each other grieve, collective mutual aid and coming together to donate their time together, all those small things that a government or a news media might dismiss are still very important."

Paik added that small forms of support could help create models that eventually influence government programs or even legislation.

People who are gathering resources like sending money to their families are not unimportant. These mutual aids, like community pantries, are inspiring and can be small models to build on and multiply and help us come through a painful experience together, she said.

Communal ways of coping after a large-scale tragedy could also help the diaspora grieve, Holinger added. This includes naming and remember loved ones in religious services, meeting with others in the community or coming together to share a meal that honors someone.

"Being able to engage communally could begin to assuage the collective grief of those who, because they live outside the country, became powerless observers and help them heal," she said.

As for Prasad and his wife, they are hoping the money, aid and phone calls are a bridge to keep them connected with the loved ones they still have left in India.

In times of tragedy, we want to be a part of a larger community. We want to reach out, for a sense of support and a sense of belonging, Viswanath said. Its people who are feeling helpless who are reaching out, but they don't want to feel helpless, they want to do something. Its a shared community experience.

Share your stories of women affected by Covid-19 in South Asia: A tribute to aunties.
By Greg Torode, James Pomfret and Sumeet Chatterjee

HONG KONG (Reuters) - Hong Kong's security chief sent letters to media tycoon Jimmy Lai and branches of HSBC and Citibank this month threatening up to seven years' jail for any dealings with the billionaire's accounts in the city, according to documents seen by Reuters.

The letters, signed by Secretary for Security John Lee, were sent to Lai after the Hong Kong authorities announced the freezing of his majority stake in publisher Next Digital and local accounts of three companies owned by him under a sweeping new national security law.

One of Lai's financial advisers said that while the amount of funds in the accounts was relatively small, they represented the Hong Kong management end of a global network of banking relationships covering his private wealth.

Three senior private bankers and three corporate lawyers - independent from Lai's accounts - said the action extended the tightening national security apparatus into elite tiers of the banking system for the first time, exposing risks for clients and top financial managers in Hong Kong.

The advisers are seeking guidance from bankers and lawyers on how to challenge the freeze, and its impact on offshore holdings and banking relationships managed through Hong Kong until now.

The action by the security secretary is also fuelling concern about the broader investment climate in the city given the potential reach of the security law, imposed on the former British colony last June by China's parliament, lawyers, bankers and diplomats say.

The moves could imperil any attempt by the democracy activist to move offshore assets back home to prop up Next's troubled Apple Daily tabloid, a staunch government critic, the financial adviser said.

Shares in Next Digital rose as much as 330% as they resumed trading on Thursday after authorities last week froze Lai's 71.26% stake, then worth $45 million.

Lai has emerged as one of the highest profile targets of the new law and is facing three national security charges including allegedly colluding with a foreign country.

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The letter to Lai, sent to him at the city's high-security Stanley Prison, threatens up to seven years' jail and an unspecified fine for any dealing in the named assets, including disposal or conversion, using them as collateral or transferring them in or out of Hong Kong.

The letter to Lai lists seven Hong Kong accounts that are linked to three companies registered in the British Virgin Islands (BVI).

Lai could not be reached for comment.

Described as "Notice No. 1", the letter states that the action is taken under the "implementation rules" of Article 43 of the law, which allows for the seizure or freezing of property "used or intended to be used" for the commission of an offence.

The letters also acknowledge the right of Lai and the banks to challenge the notice, which expires in May 2023, in court.

The same language was used in letters to HSBC and Citibank, according to the documents seen by Reuters.

A Security Bureau spokesman said as judicial proceedings were going on "it is not appropriate for us to disclose operational details".

"Suffice to say, endangering national security is a very serious crime."

Banking regulator, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), said banks had to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in criminal investigations, including freezing of assets under relevant laws, which includes the national security law.

"The HKMA has no role in criminal investigations and we are not in a position to comment," it said.

'WAKE-UP CALL'

The letter to Lai specified that he would be held liable if he dealt with the assets "except under the authority of a licence" granted by Security Secretary Lee.

The letters to the two banks did not make clear which employees in the bank would be held liable.

A Hong Kong-based spokesperson for Citibank said the bank did not comment on individual client accounts. "Citi is required to comply with all applicable laws and regulations in markets where we operate," the spokesperson said. A spokeswoman at HSBC in Hong Kong declined to comment.

An account in OCBC Wing Hang Bank is also listed in the letter sent to Lai but it is not known if that bank received a similar notice. OCBC Wing Hang declined to comment.

Lai told Reuters last May that, given the pressure building on him, the bulk of his personal wealth was off-shore.

His advisers say this is spread across Asia and North America, including property in Taiwan, hotels in Canada and tens of millions in U.S. stocks.

"We are certain they are determined to choke Apple, and even without trying to seize assets offshore, they are making it difficult to move that money back into Hong Kong," one adviser told Reuters.

"We can now see that any banking relationship you have centred on Hong Kong makes you vulnerable under the national security law  that is going to be a big wake-up call for the wealth management industry here, and their rich clients," the adviser said.

"In trying to nail Jimmy Lai and Apple to the wall, they might well be nailing that industry too."

Lai's advisers fear the uncertainty surrounding his offshore assets stems from the fact that they are held in offshore accounts set up and managed through Hong Kong.

Bankers and lawyers say regulators and banks in other jurisdictions are not obliged to respond to demands related to individual accounts from another country, especially if those requests are not linked to terrorism or money laundering charges.

One senior private banker in Hong Kong said it was a common practice for Hong Kong-based private bankers to set up overseas accounts for clients - operating under a key assumption that such offshoring of wealth would be legally firewalled.

"It doesn't matter if the accounts are set up in Hong Kong. The money is somewhere else, and falls under another jurisdiction," the banker told Reuters. "It's secure."

If, however, confidence in this arrangement were undermined by the national security law and discretionary curbs on monetary outflows, it could hurt the industry.

"A lot of clients have already been spreading their eggs," said the banker who declined to be named given the sensitivity of the issue. "The No. 1 one destination is Singapore."

The 73-year-old Lai is serving a 14-month prison sentence for taking part in unauthorised assemblies during anti-government protests that rocked Hong Kong in 2019.

As those protests built, Lai's representatives moved assets offshore via Hong Kong bank branches to seek protection against a proposed extradition bill that fuelled the demonstrations.

While the government later shelved the bill, its key features - including the ability to render Hong Kong suspects for trial in mainland Chinese courts and broader asset seizure regulations - were included in the security law imposed by China's highest legislative body.

Lee, the security secretary, said last week that the move against Lai was meant to prevent further crimes and wasn't aimed at media work.

Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam said the action would hopefully reinforce the city's status as a financial hub "so that no-one can use our financial system to carry out acts endangering national security".

Next Digital said in a statement on Wednesday it had enough working capital to operate for at least 18 months from April 1 without new loans or cash injections from Lai.

(Reporting By Greg Torode, James Pomfret and Sumeet Chatterjee in Hong Kong; Additional reporting by Anshuman Daga in Singapore; Editing by Robert Birsel)
By Humeyra Pamuk and Robin Emmott

WASHINGTON/BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Turkey pushed NATO allies into watering down an official reaction to the forced landing by Belarus of a passenger plane and the detention of a dissident journalist on Sunday, two diplomats familiar with the matter told Reuters.

NATO's 30 allies released a two-paragraph statement on Wednesday condemning the forcing down of a Ryanair flight to arrest journalist Roman Protasevich but did not include any punitive steps that Baltic allies and Poland had pressed for.

The statement was also less strident than NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg's public remarks. He called the incident a "state hijacking" and "outrageous".

Ankara insisted that any mention of support for more Western sanctions on Belarus, and calls for the release of political prisoners there, would be left out of the text, the two diplomats said. Language threatening a suspension of NATO's cooperation with Belarus was also removed, they added.

Turkey's motives were not immediately clear.

Diplomats said Ankara might be trying to preserve ties with Moscow, Belarus' closest ally, and maintain economic relations with Belarus via Turkish Airlines, which has daily flights to Minsk. Another possibility could be Turkey's keenness to welcome Russian tourists this summer after the COVID-19 pandemic.

A spike in coronavirus infections last month and a flurry of foreign travel warnings have wiped out many early bookings and raised prospects of another lost tourist season for Turkey, which relies on the cash inflow to fund its heavy foreign debt.

The Turkish foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

A NATO official said: "The statement by the North Atlantic Council on Belarus was agreed by all 30 Allies by consensus. We do not go into the details of discussions in the North Atlantic Council, which are confidential."

One of the diplomats said Stoltenberg had won the agreement of all allies, including Turkey, for the final text, published on NATO's website, to avoid further public divisions.

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UPSET

Turkey's insistence on a watered-down text upset a number of allies, particularly Poland, Lithuania and Latvia, which had pushed for tougher wording, the diplomats said.

A third diplomat said Ankara's pushback was mainly aimed at using a different wording to that of the European Union, which detailed proposals for sanctions. These included a ban on the overflight of EU airspace by Belarusian airlines, preventing Belarusian airlines from using EU airports and calling on EU airlines to avoid Belarus.

Turkey is not an EU member, though it has been a candidate for many years.

"Many allies were very frustrated with Turkey. It was important for NATO to respond and it is not clear why Ankara should want to defend (Belarusian President Alexander) Lukashenko," said a European diplomat present at the discussion.

Turkey has become a more difficult partner in recent years for some NATO allies, clashing with France over Turkish policy in Libya, with the United States on Syria and with Greece over energy rights in the Mediterranean.

Turkey has also bought air defence missiles from Russia, which NATO says is an adversary trying to destabilise the West.

The United States and European Union have criticised what they see as a slide towards more authoritarian rule under President Tayyip Erdogan, especially since a failed 2016 coup.

But Turkey, which has the second largest military in NATO and is in a strategic location between Europe and the Middle East and with coasts on the Black and Mediterranean Seas, is too big and important for the EU or the United States to ignore.

Ankara has said repeatedly it supports NATO but that it has the right to pursue its own sovereign foreign policy.

(Additional reporting by Sabine Siebold in Berlin; Editing by Gareth Jones)
Saudi Arabia hosted global travel industry leaders across public and private sectors at the Tourism Recovery Summit in Riyadh to discuss common solutions and tangible actions as the sector enters a new era.



The summit gathered more than 60 speakers at the Ritz Carlton in Riyadh and attracted a global virtual audience of thousands.



The speaker line-up included 16 tourism ministers from around the globe as well as private sector leaders from the aviation, hospitality and cruise sectors as well as industry bodies. Through panel discussions and bilateral meetings, participants exchanged experiences, ideas and opportunities to ensure the future of tourism is more sustainable, resilient and inclusive.

Participants in the Summit included:



 The Hon. Edmund Bartlett CD, MP, Minister of Tourism of Jamaica;

 H.E. Harry Theoharis, Minister of Tourism of Greece;

 Sir Martin Sorrell, Founder and Executive Chairman of S4 Capitaland Founder, WPP;

 Dr. Jill Tiefenthaler, CEO, National Geographic Society;

 Geoffrey Kent, Founder, Co-Chairman and CEO, Abercrombie and Kent;

 Willie Walsh, Director General, International Air Transport Association (IATA);

 Sebastien Bazin. Group CEO and Chairman of the Board, Accor;

 Ernesto Ottone Ramirez, Assistant Director-General for Culture, UNESCO;

 Amr AlMadani, CEO, Royal Commission for AlUla;

 Nadhmi Al-Nasr, CEO, NEOM;

 John Pagano, CEO, Red Sea Development Project &Amaala; and

 Jerry Inzerillo, CEO, Diriyah Gate Development Authority.



In his opening address to the Summit, Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, called for greater collaboration between the private and public sectors as tourism enters a new era. He said recovery would be based on three main principles: sustainability, inclusivity and collaboration.



In his comments to attendees, United Nations World Tourism Organizations (UNWTO) Secretary General Zurab Pololikashvili announced the launch of the organizations Best Tourism Villages initiative, which will identify villages taking innovative and transformative approaches to tourism in rural areas. He also inaugurated the UNWTOs first Regional Office, in Riyadh, which will harness collaboration to grow and strengthen the regions tourism industry.



Princess Haifa Mohamed Bint Al Saud, Assistant Minister of Tourism, expressed optimism for the future of the industry, emphasizing the need to satisfy peoples desire to travel while building an ecosystem that attracts investment and enables a greater diversity of people and geographic areas to benefit in the prosperity tourism brings.  TradeArabia News Service
By Marisa Taylor, Mike Spector and Dan Levine

(Reuters) - The U.S. Justice Department has launched a criminal investigation into Eli Lilly and Co focused on alleged manufacturing irregularities and records tampering at a factory in Branchburg, New Jersey, that produces the pharmaceutical giant's COVID-19 therapy and other drugs, three people familiar with the matter said.

The probe represents a significant escalation of the government scrutiny on Lilly. The pharmaceutical company, one of the world's largest, has been under examination for more than a year by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration over alleged manufacturing and records violations at the Branchburg factory.

Reuters questioned Lilly about the criminal inquiry on Wednesday. On Thursday morning, the company disclosed in a securities filing that it had received a subpoena from the Justice Department in May seeking documents related to the Branchburg factory.

The company did not disclose anything more about the nature or focus of the investigation and said it was cooperating fully in the matter.

Lilly said it had previously engaged external counsel to conduct an independent investigation of certain allegations relating to the Branchburg plant. The company submitted the same information Thursday to Reuters in response to the news agencys questions.

"Lilly is deeply committed to manufacturing high-quality medicines for patients who need them, and the safety and quality of our products is our highest priority," the company said.

The Justice Department inquiry follows a Reuters report in March that a Lilly human resources officer alleged she had been forced out of her job https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-elililly-special-report/special-report-insider-alleges-eli-lilly-blocked-her-efforts-to-sound-alarms-about-u-s-drug-factory-idUSKBN2B31K5 at the factory after undertaking internal investigations of employee complaints about manufacturing lapses, falsified or destroyed records and staff shortages.

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In April, employees accused a factory executive of altering FDA-required documents in order to downplay problems, according to an unsigned internal complaint reviewed by Reuters https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/exclusive-lilly-hit-by-staff-accusations-fda-scrutiny-covid-drug-factories-2021-05-05/?utm_medium=Social&utm_source=twitter.

The company previously told Reuters that none of the issues flagged by FDA inspectors affected the quality of medicines released to doctors and patients. Lilly also has denied retaliating against any employees.

The Justice Department inquiry, which involves U.S. prosecutors and other officials in New Jersey and Washington, began in recent weeks, the three people said. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is participating in the probe, they said.

A spokesman for the New Jersey U.S. attorney's office declined to confirm or deny the existence of an investigation. Justice Department and FDA representatives in Washington had no immediate comment on the probe. The FBI declined to comment.

The investigation is in its earliest stages, the three people told Reuters, and the Justice Department has not accused Lilly or any of its employees of wrongdoing. The department could ultimately pursue criminal charges, seek civil sanctions or close the probe without taking action.

Investigators have not zeroed in on specific legal violations that could form the backbone of a case, one of the sources said.

Steven Lynn, a former head of the FDA's Office of Manufacturing and Product Quality, said the federal government rarely seeks criminal charges stemming from manufacturing violations unless those lapses are extremely serious and the company does little to fix them.

This is a big deal, Lynn said of the Justice Department decision to launch a criminal probe of Lilly, echoing three industry and regulatory experts interviewed by Reuters.

OFFICIAL ACTION INDICATED

In November 2019, FDA inspectors arrived at the Branchburg plant for an inspection and found that quality control data had been deleted and not appropriately audited, Reuters has reported. The plant produced blockbuster diabetes drug Trulicity as well as several cancer medications.

Federal documents show the FDA cited the problems in March 2020 as Official Action Indicated, or OAI, which is its most serious category of violation. If not addressed, an OAI can lead to a prohibition on the sale of drugs from a facility, regulatory experts say. The FDA has not taken further public action.

Inspectors returned in July and found several more problems. Among them: Batches of drugs had been discarded because of manufacturing mistakes and quality control problems were not being properly investigated by the company to prevent recurrence.

In response to a Reuters open records request, the FDA in May released two Lilly memos responding to the problems that the agencys inspectors found in New Jersey. Lilly told the FDA it takes the agencys findings very seriously and understands the criticality of data integrity across the entirety of our operations, a September 2020 Lilly memo said.

The FDA declined to release additional records about the New Jersey plant, saying it is information compiled for law enforcement purposes and disclosure could interfere with such proceedings.

In October, the Trump administration ordered $375 million worth of Lillys COVID-19 antibody therapy bamlanivimab, which is manufactured in Branchburg. Shortly afterward, the FDA authorized the drugs use on an emergency basis to help curb the pandemic. Bamlanivimab is now combined with a second Lilly drug, called etesevimab, to treat COVID-19.

A condition of the emergency authorization was that an outside auditor inspect batches of bamlanivimab to ensure they met FDA standards. Lilly and the FDA have not responded to questions from Reuters about whether this requirement was met.

Reuters reported in March that a former Lilly human resources officer, Amrit Mula, had identified internally some of the same violations later documented by the FDA. Mula was forced out of the company in early 2019 after Lilly executives sought to downplay her findings, according to a letter demanding compensation for damages that her attorneys sent to the company in December 2019. The attorneys argued the company retaliated against Mula for raising legitimate concerns as part of her job.

In April, a group of Lilly employees in New Jersey asserted in an internal complaint that a top quality executive at the Branchburg factory, Lydia Wible, rewrote findings by Lilly technical experts to make the conclusions appear more favorable to the company. Wible did not respond to a request for comment sent Wednesday.

Lilly confirmed the existence of the internal complaint about Wible to Reuters, and said it had referred the matter for investigation to an outside party. It did not name that entity.

An internal Lilly response to the employee complaint, reviewed by Reuters, shows that the company hired the Washington-based law firm Covington & Burling LLP to investigate the matter.

Gerald Masoudi, a Covington partner who once served as FDAs chief counsel, is collecting information from employees, the document shows. He did not respond to questions from Reuters.

(Marisa Taylor reported from Washington, D.C.; Mike Spector reported from New York; Dan Levine reported from San Francisco. Editing by Michele Gershberg and Julie Marquis)
By Jennifer Hiller and Svea Herbst-Bayliss

HOUSTON/BOSTON (Reuters) - The full makeup of Exxon Mobil Corp's board of directors remained undecided following Wednesday's hotly contested election in which 16 candidates vied for 12 seats.

In a shareholder vote that rocked the oil industry, activist hedge fund Engine No. 1 won at least two seats with support from top Exxon investors BlackRock Inc, State Street Corp, and Vanguard Group. The contest was marked by controversy with the hedge fund warning of last minute vote changes and accusing Exxon of delaying the count "for its own purpose."

Inspectors are sifting through millions of electronic and mail-in ballots for the final two candidates with the greater number of votes.

WHO IS COUNTING VOTES?

An inspector of elections, which can be one or more people, is hired to prepare results. The process might run into June, according Exxon spokesman Casey Norton, because of the sheer number of votes and evaluating ballots can be complex.

WHAT DO INSPECTORS CONSIDER?

With millions of shares changing hands daily, ineligible shareholders sometimes cast ballots. The inspector must check ballots so only eligible votes are counted, and that changed votes are not double counted, said Cal Smith, a partner at law firm King & Spalding. Only Exxon shareholders as of March 29 were eligible.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

If either side challenges the preliminary results, the next stop is called the "snake pit," where the inspector, proxy solicitors for each side and their lawyers review the votes.

HOW LONG DOES A SNAKE PIT LAST?

It can take weeks to decide whether a shareholder had the right to vote, whether there was proper chain of custody, and whether a last-minute vote change can supersede a previous ballot. Once this happens, the vote can be certified.

WHO HAS BEEN ELECTED SO FAR?

Eight of Exxon's nominees, including Chief Executive Darren Woods, and two of Engine No. 1's nominees, former refining executives Gregory Goff and Kaisa Hietala, were elected by comfortable margins.

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WHAT NOMINEES REMAIN IN CONTENTION?

Exxon directors Steven Kandarian, Douglas Oberhelman, Samuel Palmisano and Wan Zulkiflee, and Engine No. 1 nominee Alexander Karsner are still in the running.

HOW MIGHT THE BOARD MAKEUP CHANGE?

Exxon could seat six to seven new directors within little more than a year - half its membership. The tally includes new appointments earlier this year, election results and a pledge to add two new directors within 12 months.

(Reporting by Jennifer Hiller in Houston and Svea Herbst-Bayliss in Boston; editing by Gary McWilliams and Richard Chang)
In the upper left corner of a large mural painted in Adam Toledos memory at the intersection of Ogden and Lawndale avenues is a very sharp, black-and-white sketch. Its a drawing of a car with detailed spokes and boxy, clean lines.

The image came straight out of the spiral notebook the teen sketched in, his family members said, just minutes before they stood shoulder to shoulder beneath the mural Wednesday to announce plans to open a rural haven in his name for youths growing up in troubled city neighborhoods.

The announcement came on what would have been Toledos 14th birthday, and the plans for Adams Place, as outlined by his mother, described something that many might take for granted: a place to run around freely, learn and grow with friends without getting lured astray.

Toledo was shot and killed March 29 by a Chicago police officer in a Little Village alley during a foot chase.

Today would have been Adams 14th birthday. It is hard for me to say these words, Elizabeth Toledo said in a statement read by her attorney. I wish he were here and we were having pizza and cake, just something simple like that. ... What I really want is to have Adam back and I cant do that. But we can try to help other families protect their sons from the temptations that took Adam into the street that night, the night that he was killed.

Adams Place would be a setting where teens like him can stay out of trouble, the statement said.

We want (Adams Place) to be the kind of place where boys can run around and learn to love the outdoors. We want Adams Place to be the kind of place where boys can learn and grow and have a chance to fulfill their ambitions.

The new effort is modeled after the Boys Farm program in South Carolina that provides a rural residential facility for youth. The Toledo family and their advisers are in the process of securing land in Wisconsin for the home. They have established as a not-for-profit corporation and set up a board of directors, with hopes to break ground within a year and build housing to accommodate up to eight young boys from Chicago and a barn to house livestock.

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Toledo was shot after officers responded to a call of shots fired near 24th Street and Sawyer Avenue. Ruben Roman, 21, was arrested during the chase and later charged with several felonies, including for firing a gun on the street that night and endangering the life of a child.

The familys announcement came the same day Chicago police announced a new policy intended to control and head off dangerous foot pursuits like the one that ended with Toledos shooting.

Toledo had secretly left their house prior to the shooting, the family said, in a statement issued before the event Wednesday.

Despite his parents best efforts, he snuck out of the house the night he died, lured by older youth and the thrill of the street, the statement said.

Ogden and Lawndale, where the mural in Toledos honor was erected and the event was held, is a busy intersection, a part of the city that has struggled for decades with persistent gun violence and is near some of the citys sharpest gang dividing lines.

The stakes are high for many young people in communities that have suffered decades from lacking resources, poverty and poor access to jobs. Some experts have argued that policymakers have for too long relied on police, rather than social services, to find solutions to the deeply entrenched gang problems that drive much of the violence.

Just hours before the Wednesday event, the mural itself was vandalized and painted over with gang symbols, a tactic of disrespect common among factions. An attorney for the family denounced the desecration during the news conference. And later, the artist, Milt Coronado, said he was sad to see the damage.

Somebody damaged my work. Thats minimal. But they continue to lash out and throw stones at this family this way, and thats what really hurts, he said.

The damage, however, had been repaired by community members and Coronado before the Toledo family stood on the stage, beneath the image.

At the event, Toledos older sister, Esmeralda Toledo, 24, spoke at length, her voice breaking, about watching her brothers little mustache begin to grow and his voice start to change.

One mistake he made, she said, should not have cost so much.

Adam was 13. He deserved to be here right now celebrating his 14th birthday with his friends and family, she said. He was a kid who was just learning his way around the world and he deserved the chance to make mistakes and learn from them as we all do and we have before. Because no one is perfect.
By Steven Scheer

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - The first group of foreign tourists in more than a year touched down in Israel on Thursday after the government began opening its borders following a steep drop in COVID-19 infections.

Small groups of vaccinated foreign tourists - up to 30 people - have been allowed to enter as of last Sunday and the Tourism Ministry expects 20 such groups to come from countries, including the United States, Britain and Germany, under a pilot programme until June 15.

The ministry then hopes to expand the number of groups and, in July, allow individual tourists.

Shortly after 4 pm (1300 GMT), United Airlines flight 90 from Newark, New Jersey landed with 12 Christian pilgrims, men and women of varying ages, studying theology at the Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. They were welcomed by Tourism Minister Orit Farkash-Hakohen, who said: "You are the first of what I am sure will be many tourists returning to the Holy Land."

Led by Pastor Tom Zelt of the Prince of Peace Church, the group plans to visit Jerusalem, Nazareth, national parks and Christian sites, the Tourism Ministry said.

"Israel is ... healthy and vaccinated. Everything is now safely open," Farkash-Hakohen told the group.

The country had closed its borders to foreigners at the outset of the coronavirus pandemic in March 2020. A rapid vaccine roll-out that has vaccinated most adults has brought the number of active COVID cases to just 428 nationwide.

This has paved the way for Israel to allow vaccinated foreigners to enter the country and revive its tourism sector, although officials remain cautious over potential new variants.

Tourists are required to show negative PCR tests before flying and to take another test at Ben Gurion Airport after landing in Tel Aviv.

Groups will also need to take serological tests at their hotel to prove they have COVID-19 antibodies. They will need to quarantine until results come back, usually in a few hours.

Tourism in 2019 hit a record high of 4.55 million visitors, contributing 23 billion shekels ($7.1 billion) to Israel's economy, mainly via small and mid-sized businesses.

(Reporting by Steven Scheer. Editing by Jane Merriman)
First Move Capital, the Boulder-based venture firm that has invested in used car marketplaces Frontier Auto Group and Vroom as well as mobility-as-a-service startup Via, has closed a new $150 million fund that will focus on the automotive and transportation sectors.

Existing strategic investors such as OEMs, dealers, distributors, fleet management, remarketing, insurance and software providers as well as family offices have backed the fund. Proceeds from the round will be exclusively allocated to new investments, the company said Thursday.

FM Capital has already made seven investments from the oversubscribed fund, including autonomous vehicle startup Gatik, cloud-based automotive retail platform Tekion and e-commerce startup Revolution Parts.

"We hit our hard cap in the max that we could raise, but have deployed a minority of that amount so we're still very much, actively investing and will be for the next couple of years," Managing Partner Mark Norman said in a recent interview.

FM Capital launched in 2012 with a $40 million fund that invested in auto commerce and dealership technologies as well as other broader retail and enterprise software startups. Its second fund, which more than doubled to $90 million, is when FM Capital became an automotive-focused VC interested in auto commerce, autonomy and sensors, connectivity, electrification and shared mobility. FM Capital typically invests between $5 million to $10 million in companies with what the partners view as "transformative solutions in transportation" typically at the Series A stage. FM Capital will sometimes do a later seed round where there's commercial traction and revenue, said Norman, who noted that in this new fund the firm has already completed one seed deal out of the seven investments it has made so far.

FM Capital has backed a total of 40 companies based in North America, Europe and Tel Aviv.

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Looking ahead, Norman sees opportunities stemming from the rising number of EVs and other forms of propulsion besides internal combustion engines.

"We see there's just a huge transformation going on with propulsion, a lot driven, of course, by government mandates around the world," Norman said. "Alternative fuels and distribution and related service infrastructure is going through a ton of flux right now. That's everything from the technology going into propulsion in vehicles  that shift from internal combustion to in large part, EVs  and how that affects downstream service infrastructure, how it affects marketplaces like residual values, and how you estimate that and understand what a vehicle is worth over its lifecycle."

For instance, Norman pointed to FM Capital's latest investment into a startup called Indigo Technologies, which has developed a vehicle platform with an in-wheel motor and suspension that frees up space.

There also continues to be a lot of software opportunities, especially as more vehicles hit the marketplace with embedded connectivity, Norman said. He also noted additional opportunities in enterprise software.

"What had been a very fragmented retail environment continues to consolidate  whether we're talking about car rentals, car dealers or fleet management  and their appetite for centrally driven tools and data is also much higher than that in the past. That's real opportunity on the enterprise software side of things."
Gavin Newsom. Amy Osborne/AFP via Getty Images

In the wake of Wednesday's deadly shooting at a light-rail yard in San Jose, California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) again called for stricter gun control policies, asking, "What the hell is going on in the United States of America? What the hell is wrong with us?"

Authorities say a gunman opened fire at the Valley Transportation Authority building during a shift change on Wednesday morning, killing eight and injuring several others; the shooter died by suicide. This was one of the deadliest gun incidents to ever happen in Northern California, Politico reports.

"When are we going to come to grips with this?" Newsom asked during a news conference. "When are we going to put down our arms, literally and figuratively, our politics, the stale rhetoric, finger-pointing, all the hand-wringing, consternation that produces nothing except more fury and frustration, more scenes like this repeated over and over and over again." He said it is time to "take a little damn responsibility, all of us," and "move beyond the platitudes and usual rhetoric" that come after a mass shooting.

President Biden also sent his condolences to the "eight families who will never be whole again," and urged Congress to "take immediate action and heed the call of the American people, including the vast majority of gun owners, to help end this epidemic of gun violence in America." The Associated Press reports that as of early May, in 2021 there have been at least 11 public mass shootings in the United States, with four or more people killed in each incident.
Library of Congress

In the years following the bitter Civil War, a former Union general took a holiday originated by former Confederates and helped spread it across the entire country.

The holiday was Memorial Day, an annual commemoration was born in the former Confederate States in 1866 and adopted by the United States in 1868. It is a holiday in which the nation honors its military dead.

Gen. John A. Logan, who headed the largest Union veterans fraternity at that time, the Grand Army of the Republic, is usually credited as being the originator of the holiday.

Yet when General Logan established the holiday, he acknowledged its genesis among the Unions former enemies, saying, It was not too late for the Union men of the nation to follow the example of the people of the South.

Im a scholar who has written  with co-author Daniel Bellware  a history of Memorial Day. Cities and towns across America have for more than a century claimed to be the holidays birthplace, but we have sifted through the myths and half-truths and uncovered the authentic story of how this holiday came into being.

Generous acts bore fruit

During 1866, the first year of this annual observance in the South, a feature of the holiday emerged that made awareness, admiration and eventually imitation of it spread quickly to the North.

During the inaugural Memorial Day observances which were conceived in Columbus, Georgia, many Southern participants  especially women  decorated graves of Confederate soldiers as well as, unexpectedly, those of their former enemies who fought for the Union.

Library of Congress Glass negatives

Shortly after those first Memorial Day observances all across the South, newspaper coverage in the North was highly favorable to the ex-Confederates.

The action of the ladies on this occasion, in burying whatever animosities or ill-feeling may have been engendered in the late war towards those who fought against them, is worthy of all praise and commendation, wrote one paper.

On May 9, 1866, the Cleveland Daily Leader lauded the Southern women during their first Memorial Day.

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The act was as beautiful as it was unselfish, and will be appreciated in the North.

The New York Commercial Advertiser, recognizing the magnanimous deeds of the women of Columbus, Georgia, echoed the sentiment. Let this incident, touching and beautiful as it is, impart to our Washington authorities a lesson in conciliation.

Power of a poem

To be sure, this sentiment was not unanimous. There were many in both parts of the U.S. who had no interest in conciliation.

But as a result of one of these news reports, Francis Miles Finch, a Northern judge, academic and poet, wrote a poem titled The Blue and the Gray. Finchs poem quickly became part of the American literary canon. He explained what inspired him to write it:

It struck me that the South was holding out a friendly hand, and that it was our duty, not only as conquerors, but as men and their fellow citizens of the nation, to grasp it.

Finchs poem seemed to extend a full pardon to the South: They banish our anger forever when they laurel the graves of our dead was one of the lines.

Almost immediately, the poem circulated across America in books, magazines and newspapers. By the end of the 19th century, school children everywhere were required to memorize Finchs poem. The ubiquitous publication of Finchs rhyme meant that by the end of 1867, the southern Memorial Day holiday was a familiar phenomenon throughout the entire, and recently reunited, country.

General Logan was aware of the forgiving sentiments of people like Finch. When Logans order establishing Memorial Day was published in various newspapers in May 1868, Finchs poem was sometimes appended to the order.

The blue and the grey

It was not long before Northerners decided that they would not only adopt the Southern custom of Memorial Day, but also the Southern custom of burying the hatchet. A group of Union veterans explained their intentions in a letter to the Philadelphia Evening Telegraph on May 28, 1869:

Wishing to bury forever the harsh feelings engendered by the war, Post 19 has decided not to pass by the graves of the Confederates sleeping in our lines, but divide each year between the blue and the grey the first floral offerings of a common country. We have no powerless foes. Post 19 thinks of the Southern dead only as brave men.

Other reports of reciprocal magnanimity circulated in the North, including the gesture of a 10-year-old who made a wreath of flowers and sent it to the overseer of the holiday, Colonel Leaming, in Lafayette, Indiana, with the following note attached, published in The New Hampshire Patriot on July 15, 1868:

Will you please put this wreath upon some rebel soldiers grave? My dear papa is buried at Andersonville, (Georgia) and perhaps some little girl will be kind enough to put a few flowers upon his grave.

President Abraham Lincolns wish that there be malice toward none and charity for all was visible in the magnanimous actions of participants on both sides, who extended an olive branch during the Memorial Day observances in those first three years.

Although not known by many today, the early evolution of the Memorial Day holiday was a manifestation of Lincolns hope for reconciliation between North and South.

This is an updated version of an article originally published on May 25, 2018.

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit news site dedicated to sharing ideas from academic experts. It was written by: Richard Gardiner, Columbus State University.

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Richard Gardiner does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Bernie Sanders love of a big bed has been routinely mocked online (AFP via Getty Images)

Fox Newss big scoop  that Senator Bernie Sanders loves a big bed  has been routinely mocked online.

The snippet of gossip was made in the new book Battle of the Soul: Inside the Democrats Campaign to Defeat Trump by Edward-Isaac Dovere, which explored the behind the scenes of the 2020 presidential election.

He didnt like getting upgrades and would often switch with an aide if he got the nicer room  If theres a bomb in there, its yours tonight, hed joke  but he liked suites, and he liked bathtubs, and he insisted on a king-size bed, which had to have a down comforter or another blanket in the closet. He preferred that the extra blanket be dark blue, and made of cotton, the book said of the Vermont senator.

The Fox News website ran an article about the books revelations, focused on what it called the senators long list of diva demands, but its slant was mocked by some social media users.

Bernie Sanders is a well-known progressive force in US politics. He supports policies such as a Green New Deal and universal health care, and labels himself a democratic socialist. However, the story was picked up by news outlets, and people pointed out the strange focus on an old mans preference in beds, saying it was not newsworthy.

How dare Bernie Sanders want a hotel room with a big bed that he pays a little bit extra for, one user wrote.

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SCANDAL: Bernie Sanders Sleeps In Big Bed With Wife, another wrote.

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Another posted, Bernie Sanders CLAIMS to be some kind of man of the People, but he sleeps in a BED!

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Someone else wrote, Book reveals that when bernie sanders stays at a hotel he paid to stay in he expects there to be a bed and an air conditioner, am i getting this right?,

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Another chimed in, Bernie Sanders is so extravagant that he demands ... *checks* A bed and could someone turn down the thermostat? Champagne socialism!

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In other news, Bernie Sanders is an old man whos always way too warm and prefers his wife in the same bed as him.

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Another user wrote, You can literally select a room with a king-sized bed on any travel or hotel website. Thats why such websites exist. Bernie Sanders isnt supposed to do what anyone else can? 60 degrees is too cold, though.

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Someone else pointed this out, Expedia allows me to choose which sized bed I want every time I book a hotel. Coming up next, the NY Post reports that Bernie Sanders wanted two pillows and running water.

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BERNIE SANDERS: I prefer a king-size bed. MAGA: Outrageous! Who does he think he is??? DONALD TRUMP: From each Secret Service person protecting my life Im gonna shake them down for $400/night for any-size bed. MAGA: Cool.

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Newsmax guest accuses Bernie Sanders of leading Jews to 'gas chamber'

Democrats push bill allowing college athletes to organize

Bernie Sanders drops effort to block US arms sale to Israel  report
KIGALI (Reuters) - French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday said only Rwandans could forgive France for its role in Rwanda's 1994 genocide.

"On this path, only those who went through that night can perhaps forgive, give us the gift of forgiving," Macron said in a speech at the genocide memorial of Gisozi in Kigali, where more than 250,000 Tutsi are buried.

France did not listen to those who warned it about the impending massacre in Rwanda and stood de facto by a genocidal regime, Macron said.

But France "was not an accomplice" to the genocide, Macron added.

(Reporting by Dominique Vidalon; Editing by Hugh Lawson)
Help India!



Narendra Modi is not the first Prime Minister to (attempt) crying in public. Analysts say political crying is almost routine and hardly helps to remain afloat against the tide. The article addresses what the tears of politicians are all about.

Mohammed Abdul Mannan | TwoCircles.net

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From Indias first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to his present successor Narendra Modi, almost everyone holding this position has cried in public, for one reason or the other. It was an emotional patriotic Hindi song Ae Mere Watan Ke Logo by Lata Mangeshkar that brought tears to Nehrus eyes in January 1963. NaMo had more than once showed himself up attempting to cry publicly, the last being in May 2021 over the deaths of thousands of people due to the coronavirus pandemics second wave for which he got squarely blamed for ill governance and system collapse. He was ridiculed and derided, especially on social media, for hiding his incompetence behind the dramatized televised sob.

According to News Click, choking up may be hard to do but the emotional appeal of it wanes over time. The first recorded instance of Modi publicly crying dates back to January 2004, almost a decade before he became the prime minister. In May 2021, his so-called emotional moment came during the video conference with doctors and frontline health workers in his adopted constituency of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, Indias populous state that has suffered massive deaths due to negligence in handling the Covid-19 pandemic. He choked up while offering condolences but tears did not roll down from his eyes. These two events are interspersed with at least seven instances of him becoming visibly emotional or teary-eyed or choking up, it said. Post-Demonetisation  his first major decision that went wrong and broke the otherwise booming economy, he was shown breaking down twice. In April 1999, BJP, the single largest party which formed the coalition government, bowed out when the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) pulled out, causing the government headed by the first BJP Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to collapse. That development prompted him to cry as the nation faced a fresh general election and dramatically returned to power months later.

Modi has to be clubbed in the category of frequent criers, averaging as he does one emotional episode a year. An analysis of his weepy moments shows his tear ducts go into overdrive whenever he speaks of his childhood struggles, his mother, his rise to the post of prime minister, and Gujarat and its people. Delhis articulate politician Alka Lamba once tweeted: Earlier, people used to say, Why do you cry like a woman every time? Now, people say, Why do you cry like Modi every time? Punjab Chief Minister Capitan Amarinder Singh called him a self-obsessed man interested only in publicity; all his actions are aimed at that.

News Click remarked: He has a masterly display of histrionicsmoist eyes and long pauses. What he, like any leader, wants is to not see his popularity dip. The Print says Modis emotional speeches have grabbed eyeballs. There are also enough and more dramatic pauses to punctuate the speech. The pauses were sometimes filled with pin-drop silence and sometimes with moments when he wiped his tears and drank water, presumably to compose himself. And then when apologising for the crying. Crying brings NaMos strongman image down a notch or two.

A leading Canadian daily, The Globe and Mail, says tears and politics have a mixed history. We are wired to have an empathetic response when we see someone cry. But there will always be people who are suspicious of a politicians tears. Public crying continues to be viewed by many as a loss of control, a sign of fragility. Famous playwright Arthur Miller once observed politicians are no different than actors, it quoted in the article.

Writing in the Indian Express in February 2021, famous journalist and political commentator T J S George observed: Our Prime Minister turns teary-eyed not for reasons lay citizens thought possible.

Obviously, it is theatrics. Political leaders crying in the open always attract headlines. He (Modi) would have known how tears have influenced history. Winston Churchill famously cried in Parliament, not once but many times until Edward VIII called him a cry baby. In a report in November 2010, the British broadcaster BBC asked can one trust a leader who cries. Firstly, why do they do it? Most psychologists agree that it is seen as far more acceptable to cry in public than it was several decades ago. Moreover, many politicians believe it will increase their support by making people warm to them, which  at a basic level  it does. Undoubtedly, at the right time and in the right place, tears can soften our hearts and make often distant-looking politicians appear human.

The New York Times in May 2020 remarked crying on the job, especially in politics, used to be considered a liability. Crying has derailed political careers. Tears at work have long been discouraged: People who cry risk being perceived as less professional and less competent than their more stoic peers. It also depends on what the emotion is about. Religious tears tend to be OK, as do heroic tears (think: war, sports). Patriotic tears are generally welcome, while personal tears are riskier. In a report, The Case for Crying in Public, the British broadcaster BBC remarked in August 2019: Psychologists have largely found that far from being cathartic, crying often ends up making you feel worse.

Why we cry?

Crying is in response to an emotional state  of sadness, anger and even happiness. For crying to be described as sobbing, it has to be accompanied by a set of other symptoms like slow but erratic inhalation, occasional instances of breath holding and muscular tremor. Politicians crying over victory and farewell speeches are dime and dozen in history, but they do so owning up responsibility for faults and failures are rare. Call it loss of control, endearing habit, a moment of weakness or performance, leaders at the top have shed tears in public often in times of crisis.

Jodi DeLuca, an American neuropsychologist, says crying has a purely social function. It often wins support from those who watch you cry. Sometimes, crying may be manipulative  a way to get what you want. According to WebMD, a leading source for trustworthy health news and information, it could be that those who are depressed or anxious simply dont derive the same benefits from crying as others do. If youre not a world-class time or place where you dont want to weep  and others dont want to watch you weep. Psychologists say leaders cry because they, like babies, crave attention and nurture and wish to evoke a sympathetic response from their audience. It is not always an artifice, although their tears tend to attenuate the aggression of their critics. But leaders who become teary too often are often thought to be faking emotions. Leaders are presumed to be contriving when they are perceived to gain from maudlin acts.

In a report in July 2013, ABC Radio National, ask why are humans the only animals that cry? Pet owners often claim their dogs cry. Darwin thought monkeys and elephants wept. But modern scientists believe the only animal to break down in tears is us. Charles Darwin thought that tears had no modern adaptive function. In an article on how political tears became routine, The Guardian in January 2016 remarked: At one time tears could finish a political career, but now crying is an important tool in the campaign armoury. Public crying is a loss of control but always a brief weakness, a disruption from within. As a result, it has often been considered a serious political error. Today, perhaps because it is better understood, political crying is almost routine.

Thomas Dixon, Director of the Queen Mary Centre for the History of the Emotions, and Editor of the History of Emotions Blog talked about the power of political tears and ask are politicians who cry openly ever being sincere? Writing in The Prospect magazine of the UK in October 2015, he says the power of political tears is evident throughout historyas far back as the English Civil War (16421651), tears were used to embellish and enhance rhetoric. Oliver Cromwell, who led the rebellion against the monarchy and signed King Charles Is death warrant, for all his puritanical drive and ruthless leadership, was notorious for his emotional displays. Displays of public emotion were increasingly common in the 18th century. This touchy-feely trend continued into the 20th century.

Julius Caesar, the Roman emperor, is said to have cried when he learnt his conquests were no match to Greek legend Alexander the Great. Adolf Hitler had cried six times, including once at the defeat of his country in the First World War (WWI). He went back to his bunk and buried his head. In April 1945, he committed suicide by swallowing a cyanide capsule and shooting himself in the head after getting holed up in a bunker in Berlin. Soon after, Germany unconditionally surrendered to the Allied forces, ending his dreams of a 1,000-year Reich or kingdom/empire in German. He delivered public speeches with great dramatic flair, often with tears in his eyes.

The two leaders traditionally depicted as the most fearless and tearless of this era, Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher, also indulged in bouts of political crying. Churchill wept frequently, both in private and in public. The real pioneer of political tears in the 20th century was Margaret Thatcher who had the popular perception of being heartless and ultra-masculine. She spoke to journalists about her tears on several occasions, from her election as Conservative leader in 1975 onwards, including during the Falklands War of 1982.

In 1985, she became the first Prime Minister to weep during a television interview. The tears were aimed at a female audience and presumably designed to soften Thatchers image. At least three US presidents have publicly shed tears while in office, Barack Obama being the last at least five times.

According to The Quint, Indians reacted to Modis cries with like, dislike and haha on social media. Dislikes outnumbered likes even on Modis official YouTube channel. The political response had been on predictable lines  with his supporters calling it an outpouring of grief over people dying due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the Opposition calling it a drama or crocodile tears. It does appear that at least on Facebook, the proportion of haha responses is higher in English news pages and pages of non-Hindi regional languages, compared to pages of Hindi news channels. On YouTube, the response is overwhelmingly negative towards the PM. This seems a comparatively new phenomenon.

An article in DailyO.in, an online opinion, analysis and blog platform from the India Today Group, asked does the prime minister of a country have the right to cry in public. Turning emotions into fodder for politics is a sacrilege. Emotions are vehicles of truth. In particular, inner truth, which is the essence of the sacred. Emotions, more than reason, are the sacred hymns of human interiority. Emotions are to be deemed sacrifices offered to the Divine. It added: Whatever is cast before human beings is at risk of getting degraded and vulgarised. So, two things are better avoided  a public display of emotions and sitting in judgment insensitively over the emotions of others; for who can know when it is genuine and when it is not. The tragedy today is not that our public life is choked with emotions. It is, rather, that our private and public lives are emotion-starved. We are, as a result, less than human. We lack aliveness.

Mohammed Abdul Mannan worked as a senior journalist with Deccan Chronicle, Indian Express, India Today and Khaleej Times. He is the founder-editor of Via Dubai and authored 10 books including Behind the Mask  the story behind Covid-19.
French President Emmanuel Macron heads to Rwanda hoping to reset ties scarred by genocide recriminations.

Video Transcript

MALCOLM WEBB: France's relations with Rwanda have been steadily warming, since French President Emmanuel Macron came to power four years ago. Rwanda's President Paul Kagame has visited him in Paris twice, but things were frosty for most of the time, since his Rwandan Patriotic Front, or RPF, took control of Rwanda in 1994. That was during Rwanda's genocide. France backed the previous government, Kagame's enemy in the civil war, by providing weapons and military training. Many officials from that government organized massacres of ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus.

Then, France sent soldiers on a UN mandate. They created a humanitarian corridor, which also allowed genocide there to escape. Kagame accused them of complicity in massacres of Tutsis. Under his rule, Rwanda drew closer to the US and the UK, a quarter of a century of tensions with France followed, until now.

DAVID HIMBARA: This is the country that had actually switched to English, had removed the French.

MALCOLM WEBB: David Himbara used to be an advisor to Kagame. He now lives in exile in Canada. Other exiled critics have been killed. He says Rwanda's human rights record is one thing that's tested his relationship with the US.

DAVID HIMBARA: With the laws or the cooling of the relationship with the US, Kagame moved on to France. And you know, I forget the saying that, you know, you don't have enemies in politics, you know? Or, any politics is a long time in need, yes.

MALCOLM WEBB: France previously accused the RPF of shooting down the plane of President Juvenal Habyarimana in 1994, triggering the genocide and of massacring Hutu civilians. He's gone quiet on those things now. Narratives around the genocide and the events of the 1990s are still controversial and contested.

Politicians and activists in Rwanda who've questioned the government's account, have been jailed or killed. Tom Ndahiro works for a study center that researches the genocide, funded by the government.

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TOM NDAHIRO: Genocide is unforgivable. But the relationship between the states, between states internationally, is something that is based on the countries' interests.

MALCOLM WEBB: Macron has to balance French interest in Africa with his own political interests at home. An apology for France's past actions might be attacked by the French far-right. But Rwanda's government expects acknowledgment of France's past role in supporting its enemies for relations to proceed.

Malcolm Webb, Al Jazeera, Kigali, Rwanda.
KIGALI (Reuters) - French President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday "apologise" was not the right word to use when referring to France's role in Rwanda's genocide, after saying earlier he recognised his country's "responsibilities" in the 1994 tragedy.

"Apologise is not the appropriate term and I cannot grant forgiveness", Macron said during a joint press conference with his Rwandan counterpart Paul Kagame.

(Reporting by Benoit Van Overstraeten; Editing by Alex Richardson)
Georgia sergeant demoted after K9 dog found dead in back of patrol car (MCSO)

A Georgia sergeant was demoted after his K9 dog was found dead in the back of a patrol car.

Monroe County Sheriffs Office says that K9 Khan died after he was accidentally left in his pen inside a hot patrol car earlier this month.

Officials say that handler Deputy Willie Barkley returned home after working an overnight shift, and after completing paperwork in the patrol car, went inside his home to sleep.

But authorities say that instead of moving Khan, a four-year-old Belgian Malinois, to a pen at the property, he forgot to get him out from the patrol car.

And when he returned to the vehicle the next day he found that the dog had died from apparent overheating.

The department carried out an internal investigation and determined that it was an avoidable accident.

Prosecutors from the Monroe County District Attorneys Office have agreed with the findings and no charges will be brought against Deputy Barkley.

But he has been demoted from sergeant to deputy, suspended for five days without pay and removed from field operations.

There were no health issues with the dog. Dog was healthy. Although it wasnt a hot day, the temperature was around 79 that day, Sheriff Brad Freeman told 13WMAZ.

A lot of people dont realize it might be 79 outside, which is not hot for us, but in the car, it can go up 20 degrees. It could be 90+ degrees in that car. Therefore, no one can handle that -- human or animal.
Could Earth's temperature hit the limit of the Paris climate agreement? Chicago is changing its policy on foot chases following fatal shootings by police. And scientists thought this tortoise had been extinct for 100 years, but "Fern" showed up and surprised them all.

 It's Laura. Like the Earth's climate, Thursday's news is hot, hot, hot.

But first, check out this spring break alligator.  This dude just wanted to escape the swamps of Louisiana and chill on the beach in Texas. I get it, gator.

The Short List is a snappy USA TODAY news roundup. Subscribe to the newsletter here or text messages here.

Global warming 'wake-up call'

A couple of degrees might not sound like a lot, but we're getting close to the limit. The odds of the planet continuing to warm over the next several years have increased, meteorologists from the World Meteorological Organization said Thursday. In fact, within the next five years, there's now a 40% chance that Earth's annual average temperature will temporarily edge above a limit set by the Paris climate agreement. Increasing temperatures mean more melting ice, higher sea levels, more heat waves and other extreme weather, and greater impacts on food security, health, the environment and sustainable development, WMO Secretary-General Petteri Taalas said. "It is yet another wake-up call that the world needs to fast-track commitments to slash greenhouse gas emissions and achieve carbon neutrality." The chance of temporarily hitting the 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) increase limit has roughly doubled compared to last years predictions.

What does the Paris agreement do? Seeks to keep global temperature rise this century well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase even further to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

How are we doing? Not great. National commitments to cut emissions, known as nationally determined contributions, currently fall far short of what is needed to achieve this target.

There's more: The WMO forecast for the next several years also predicts a 90% chance that the world will set yet another record for the hottest year by the end of 2025, and that the Atlantic will continue to brew more potentially dangerous hurricanes than it used to.

In this Aug. 16, 2019 file photo, icebergs float away as the sun rises near Kulusuk, Greenland. According to a study released on Thursday, Aug. 20, 2020, Greenland lost a record amount of ice during an extra warm 2019, with the melt massive enough to cover California in more than four feet of water.

9th victim dies after San Jose shooting

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After announcing the death of a ninth victim in a shooting spree at a light-rail yard, San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo called on the community to do "what we must: support our families and coworkers in pain, and assist their journey to healing." Light-rail operators, mechanics, linemen and an assistant superintendent were among the victims of Wednesday's shooting spree at a Valley Transportation Authority facility.

The victims were identified as:

Paul Delacruz Megia, 42

Taptejdeep Singh, 36

Adrian Balleza, 29

Jose Dejesus Hernandez, 35

Timothy Michael Romo, 49

Michael Joseph Rudometkin, 40

Abdolvahab Alaghmandan, 63

Lars Kepler Lane, 63

Alex Ward Fritch, 49

The shooter, also an employee whose ex-wife says had struggled with anger issues, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, police spokesman Russell Davis said. Authorities are still trying to determine a motive.

He tried to warn his co-workers, then he was shot: Loved ones mourn victims of shooting at San Jose rail yard.

Who is San Jose suspect Samuel Cassidy? Ex-wife details anger problems, authorities probe whether fires linked to shooting that killed 8.

"They did not wait": Officers rushed into San Jose rail yard as gunshots were still ringing out.

Emergency responders gather at the scene of a shooting where several people were reported dead including the shooter on May 26, 2021 at the San Jose Railyard in San Jose, California.

What everyone's talking about

Reward reaches $300K in search for shooter of 6-year-old boy

Pushing the reward to more than five times its original amount, donations helped boost the reward fund for tips leading to an arrest in the fatal shooting of a 6-year-old boy in an apparent road rage incident last week in California to at least $300,000. Supervisor Don Wagner said efforts by the family of the boy, identified as Aiden Leos, and the community have spurred additional donations. Aiden was sitting in the back seat of his mother's car as she drove him to kindergarten when another driver shot him, authorities said. Aiden was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. Hours after Aiden was shot, his sister, Alexis Cloonan, tearfully pleaded for the public's help in the search for the shooter. "He's only 6, and he was so sweet," she said. "He was very, very loving boy, so please help us find who did this to him."

'She had to hold her little boy as he died': 6-year-old's family, California police seeking shooter in road rage death.

Family members of 6-year-old Aiden Leos stand at a makeshift memorial Tuesday on the Walnut Avenue overpass at the 55 Freeway in Orange, Calif.

Real quick

Chicago revises foot-chase policy following fatal police shootings

Months after a pair of high-profile killings by officers in pursuit drew national attention and prompted protests in the city, Chicago police are adopting a new foot-chase policy. Thirteen-year-old Adam Toledo, who would have celebrated his 14th birthday Wednesday, was fatally shot in the early hours of March 29, after an officer chased him down an alley on the city's west side. Two days later, on the northwest side, Anthony Alvarez, 22, was running away from police with his back facing an officer who fired multiple times at him.

Some key components include:

Under the new policy , which goes into effect June 11, foot pursuits are "appropriate only when there is probable cause for an arrest or it is believed an individual has committed, is committing or is about to commit a crime."

The policy prohibits foot pursuits stemming from minor traffic offenses or for criminal offenses less than a Class A misdemeanor "unless the person poses an obvious threat to the community or any person."

Officers are directed to discontinue foot pursuits if someone is injured and requires immediate medical assistance, if officers are unaware of their location, if officers engaged in the pursuit believe they would not be able to control the suspect if a confrontation were to occur, and "if the need to apprehend the subject is not worth the risk to responding officers, the public or the subject."

"Because foot pursuits are one of the most dangerous actions that police officers can engage in, we cannot afford to wait any longer to put a policy in place that regulates them," Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said.

Evolution of a city's account of a killing: How Chicago's narrative changed in the fatal police shooting of Adam Toledo.

Adam Toledo would be 14: In his honor, his family is creating a sanctuary for at-risk youth in the Midwest.

'We failed Adam': Body camera videos show 13-year-old Adam Toledo put hands up before fatal police shooting.

Andrea Fernanda Serrano kneels as she pays her respect to the site where 13-year-old Adam Toledo. was shot by police now marked with a mural in the Little Village neighborhood of Chicago, Friday, April 16, 2021, a day after the body camera video release of fatal police shooting of 13-year-old Adam Toledo.

Tortoise: 'Surprise y'all! I'm still alive!' 

Does anybody know an eligible bachelor tortoise? The search is on for a mate for a giant tortoise thought to be extinct a century ago. Earlier this week, scientists at Yale University confirmed a giant female tortoise found in the Galapagos Islands was of the species Chelonoidis phantasticus, or Fernandina Giant Tortoise, last reported 112 years ago and thought to be "lost forever," Galapagos Conservancy said in a press release. One of the greatest mysteries in Galapagos has been the Fernandina Island Giant Tortoise. Rediscovering this lost species may have occurred just in the nick of time to save it," said James Gibbs, vice president of science and conservation for the Galapagos Conservancy. Planning is underway for expeditions to find a male mate to save the species so the tortoise, named Fern, doesnt meet the same fate as Lonesome George, a Pinta Island tortoise who died in 2012 without any offspring and was declared extinct. 

Fern, the female tortoise found on Fernandina Island in 2019.

A break from the news

 Many of us didn't touch during the pandemic. Is it safe to hug again?

 New dad, new swag: 22 amazing first Fathers Day gifts for 2021.

 'Ive never seen sand so white in my life': 'Dr. Beach' picks an amazing Hawaii beach as the best in US. See the rest of his picks here.

This is a compilation of stories from across the USA TODAY Network. Want this news roundup in your inbox every night? Sign up for The Short List newsletter here.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Climate change, San Jose shooting, Chicago police, giant tortoise. It's Thursday's news.
May 27Garrett Phillips is the son of Chris and Katie Phillips, and is the younger brother to Jack.

Garrett has lived in Greenville his entire life. He went to elementary school at Bowie, where he had many extraordinary teachers that started him on his path to excellence. He and his family will be forever grateful to all those at Bowie who had a hand in his education.

During high school, Garrett has also had many exceptional teachers who have encouraged, inspired, and believed in him. Needless to say, this has been a huge factor in getting him to where he is today.

He has played a major role on both his baseball and football teams. He played both sports all four years and earned district honors in each of them. On his baseball team, he played multiple positions, but mostly catcher. In football, he played safety and special teams. Being a part of these teams have gained him friendships that will last a lifetime and coaches he'll never forget.

Garrett had the privilege of attending Texas Boys State, and is also honored to serve as the National Honor Society President. He will graduate with 30 dual credit hours from PJC.

He is also an active member of Highland Terrace Baptist Church.

When Garrett was in sixth grade, he had a very special math teacher who encouraged him to start thinking about college early. She even assigned a project to research colleges. And so that's where the interest and love for Texas A&M College Station began.

Garrett will attend Texas A&M in the fall, where he will major in electrical engineering.
May 27WILKES-BARRE  Gov. Tom Wolf Wednesday said increasing the minimum wage puts more money into the pockets of workers, which gives local businesses more customers.

"Boosting wages also increases productivity and decreases turnover," Wolf said.

On Wednesday, Wolf was joined by legislators, business owners and advocates to call on the General Assembly to raise Pennsylvania's minimum wage to $12 an hour with a path to $15.

Wolf said more than 1 million workers would get a boost in their paychecks, which creates new customers for businesses and strengthens the economy for everyone.

"This isn't about pitting workers against business owners, because businesses also stand to benefit from a higher minimum wage," Wolf said.

The governor's plan increases the state's embarrassingly low minimum wage to $12 per hour on July 1, with annual increases of $0.50 until reaching $15 per hour on July 1, 2027. Nearly 1.1 million workers would get a raise, which would add $4.4 billion to the state's economy.

The governor was joined for a press conference in Lancaster by Rep. Patty Kim, prime sponsor of HB 345 to raise the minimum wage, and local business owners Peter Barber, President, CEO and Co-owner of Two Dudes Painting Company and Jennie Groff, CEO and Co-owner of Stroopies, Inc.

Strong public support

Wolf said raising the wage has strong public support. A Franklin & Marshall College poll released in March found 67 percent of registered Pennsylvania voters support raising the minimum wage to $12 as the governor is proposing.

Eight other states are on path to $15, including "red" states. In the November 2020 election, voters in Florida  which has a Republican governor and legislature and voted for President Trump  passed a constitutional amendment to raise its minimum wage to $15 by 2026.

President Joe Biden also recently took executive action to increase the minimum wage for federal contractors and tipped employees to $15.

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Overall, 29 other states, including every state that borders Pennsylvania, have raised the minimum wage above $7.25 an hour.

Closing the pay gap

Proponents say raising the minimum wage to $15 will create stronger financial stability for women and persons of color across the commonwealth. Six in 10 workers getting a pay boost are women, which represents nearly 24 percent of all women in the state.

Additionally, a $15 wage floor would directly benefit 35 percent of Hispanic workers, 29 percent of Black workers and 18 percent of Asian workers.

Some 75 percent of the workers are age 20 or older and nearly 40 percent work full-time, which refutes harmful stereotypes by making clear that hundreds of thousands of adults are stuck making poverty wages

Rural workers gain the most from raising the minimum wage. The highest percentage of workers getting a raise with a $15 minimum wage are in 29 rural counties, according to findings from the Keystone Research Center.

"We must not allow any Pennsylvania worker to be left behind as other states raise wages for their working families," Wolf said.

Workers keep their jobs as

states raise the minimum wage

A study by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York found that as New York state gradually raising its minimum wage to $15, wages are increasing without jobs losses.

Low-wage workers living in New York along the Pennsylvania border saw their pay increase by more than 25 percent, while the wages of Pennsylvania workers in the northern tier rose only 15 percent.
Chad fought to preserve the College of Fine Arts during his matriculation at Howard and remained dedicated to the fight throughout his career, and he would be overjoyed by this development, the Boseman family said.

Howard Universitys College of Fine Arts is set to be renamed in honor of beloved actor, playwright, and director, Chadwick Boseman. The late Boseman graduated from Howard in 2000 with a bachelors degree in directing. In 2020, he tragically passed away following a private battle with colon cancer at age 43.

Read More: Phylicia Rashad to serve as dean of Howards College of Fine Arts

Throughout his career, the iconic alumnus reached back to his alma mater in numerous ways, often seen beaming with Bison pride while in the public eye and continuing to engage with the universitys administration.

In addition to the schools change of name, Walt Disney executive Bob Iger will spearhead fundraising efforts for a new facility for the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts and provide an endowment in Bosemans name, Variety reports.

Chadwick Boseman (Getty Images)

Chad fought to preserve the College of Fine Arts during his matriculation at Howard and remained dedicated to the fight throughout his career, and he would be overjoyed by this development, the Bosemans family said in a statement.

His time at Howard University helped shape both the man and the artist that he became, committed to truth, integrity and a determination to transform the world through the power of storytelling.

While at Howard, Boseman led a three-day, sit-in protest against the proposed consolidation of the College of Fine Arts and the College of Arts and Sciences, a move that he and other students believed would have fractured a rich community full of gifted Black artists dedicated to their craft.

Lauded actress, fellow alumna, and newly appointed College of Fine Arts Dean Phylicia Rashad mentored the Anderson, South Carolina native while he was a student.

Unrelenting in his pursuit of excellence, Chadwick was possessed with a passion for inquiry and a determination to tell stories  through acting, writing, and directing  that revealed the beauty and complexity of our human spirit, said Rashad in an official statement.

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In her statement, Bosemans wife Simone Ledward-Boseman expressed appreciation for the decision and spoke to the desire Boseman always had to re-establish the department.

Actor Chadwick Boseman delivers commencement speech at Howard University in 2018. (Credit: Justin Knight)

I am extremely pleased that Howard University has chosen to honor my husband in this way and elated that Ms. Rashad has accepted the role as Dean, said Ledward-Boseman. Chad was a very proud Bison  both Howard and Ms. Rashad played integral roles in his journey as an artist. The re-establishment of the College of Fine Arts brings this part of his story full-circle and ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire young storytellers for years to come.

In 2018, the same year Marvels Cinematic Universe was overtaken by Black Panther fandemonium, Boseman delivered an indelible commencement speech to Howards graduating class. Plans to re-establish the College of Fine Arts had been in motion since then, according to Howard University President Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick.

When Chadwick Boseman returned to campus in 2018 to serve as our commencement speaker, he called Howard a magical place. During his visit, I announced our plans to reestablish the College of Fine Arts and he was filled with ideas and plans to support the effort in a powerful way, said Frederick.

Read More: Anthony Hopkins pays tribute to Chadwick Boseman in late Oscars speech

Chadwicks love for Howard University was sincere, and although he did not live to see those plans through to fruition, it is my honor to ensure his legacy lives on through the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts with the support of his wife and the Chadwick Boseman Foundation.

Have you subscribed to theGrios new podcast Dear Culture? Download our newest episodes now!

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The post Howard names College of Fine Arts after Chadwick Boseman appeared first on TheGrio.
JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  An Indonesian court sentenced a politically influential firebrand cleric to eight months in prison on Thursday for violating health protocols by holding gatherings attended by thousands of supporters during the coronavirus outbreak.

The panel of three judges at East Jakarta District Court, which was under heavy police and military guard, ruled that Rizieq Shihab had breached pandemic restrictions with events commemorating Prophet Muhammads birthday and the wedding of his daughter. He was also fined 20 million rupiah ($1,400) for a mass gathering in West Java.

The gatherings took place less than a week after his arrival from a three-year exile in Saudi Arabia. Shihab has been detained since Dec. 13. The judges ordered the time he has already served to be deducted from his sentence, meaning he will be free in several months.

Police detained dozens of Shihabs supporters who tried to stage a rally in front of the court on Thursday to demand that he be released. More than 2,300 police and soldiers were deployed in and around the building, which was protected by razor wire and four water canons.

Shihab, 55, was the leader and grand imam of the now-defunct Islam Defenders Front, widely known by the Indonesian acronym FPI, which was once on the political fringes. It has a long record of vandalizing nightspots, hurling stones at Western embassies and attacking rival religious groups, and wants Islamic Shariah law to apply to Indonesias 230 million Muslims.

Shihabs presence at several mass gatherings in his honor attracted large crowds, with attendees ignoring physical distancing rules and many failing to wear face masks.

Five other FPI members were also sentenced to eight months in jail on similar charges.

Prosecutors had sought a 34-month prison term and a three-year ban on Shihab holding a leadership role in any mass organization.

During the trial, which began in March, Shihab denied any wrongdoing and said he was the victim of political persecution related to his strong opposition to the Christian governor of Jakarta, Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, who is an ally of President Joko Widodo.

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This all is clearly political revenge that was wrapped and packaged in legal cases against me and my friends, he said in his defense plea.

In an ongoing separate trial at the same court, Shihab is also accused of concealing information about his positive coronavirus test, which allegedly made contact tracing more difficult to prevent the virus's spread.

The FPI has gained significant influence in recent years through humanitarian and charity work. It was a key organizer of massive street protests in 2016 and 2017 against Purnama, who was subsequently imprisoned for alleged blasphemy.

The movement against Purnama brought fringe Islamic groups into the political mainstream and rattled the government, highlighting the mingling of religion with politics in Indonesia, the worlds most populous Muslim-majority nation and third-largest democracy.

Shihab frequently criticizes government policies, and his statements often provoke controversy.

He was sentenced to seven months in prison in 2003 after the group vandalized bars in Jakarta. Five years later, he again was convicted and sentenced to one and a half years in prison for an attack on a religious freedom event at the National Monument Square in Central Jakarta.

Shihab left Indonesia in 2017 for a pilgrimage to Mecca shortly after police charged him in a pornography case and with insulting the official state ideology. Police dropped both charges a year later due to weak evidence.

He has called for a moral revolution since arriving back home on Nov. 10, fueling tensions with Widodos administration.

The government banned FPI in December, saying it had no legal grounds to operate as a civil organization and that its activities often violated the law and caused public disorder.
Help India!

With a population of 2.5 lakh, Mushar community in Bihar are considered Maha-Dalits (Dalits among Dalits) and discriminated against. Amid the ongoing Covid-19 lockdown in the state, Mushar children were seen collecting rats in an area in Patna only to feed themselves and their families as the community is facing hunger and starvation. A TCN Ground Report provides a glimpse into the difficult and dehumanizing lives these children live and failure of the government in providing for them and taking measures to uplift their community.

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Sami Ahmad | TwoCircles.net

PATNA  Biskarma is hardly 7-years-old and is catching rats to cook as a meal. On a sunny day in late May, he along with his six friends were seen in Phulwari Sharifs Alba Colony, a suburb of Patna, the capital of Bihar  collecting dead rats to feed themselves and their families.

While most of the children are locked inside their homes amid the Covid-19 pandemic, these boys are running from one locality to another where garbage is dumped and chances of finding rats is high. These children are also picking rags to sell but they cannot do that these days because the scrap centres are closed.

Since May 1, Bihar is under lockdown due to a massive surge in Covid-19 cases. The lockdown has been extended till June 1. Bihar governments disaster management department announced on May 20 that free meals have been provided to more than eight lakh people from community kitchens set up across the country. That is apart from the food distributed by non-governmental organizations.

In Patna, almost a dozen and half community kitchens are being run, as claimed by a government official.

But Biskarma has no food.

Biskarma belongs to the Mushar community, Dalit among Dalits, or Mahadalit in Bihar government description. According to the census of 2011, there are 2.5 lakh Mushars in Bihar.

This reporter tried to talk to other boys but only Biskarma responded after much prodding. He speaks in Magahi, slightly different from Hindi. Here is a quick recap of the conversation:

TCN: Where is your home?

Biskarma: AIIMS. (That is All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna. Their locality is called Mushar Toli).

TCN: What does your father do?

Biskarma: Kuchh nahin (Nothing).

TCN: What are you doing here?

Biskarma: Chuha mar rahe (I am catching rats).

TCN: How many rats have you caught?

Biskarma: Ek kilo (One kilogram). He says with a smile.

TCN: How do you catch rats?

Biskarma: Khatkal (The rat catcher using a spring trap is called Khatkal. It is not a closed rat-trap but a loosely assembled open trap).

TCN: From where did you get this Khatkal?

Biskarma: Keena hiyo (We buy it from the market).

A Khatkal is priced at Rs 50.

Biskarma is a single child. When asked if he has gone to school, he replies in negative. When asked the reason why not? he simply smiles.

He turns back on being asked more questions.



This reporter followed another boy to convince him to talk, he, however, had a simple response: Hamra Achha Nai Lago Ho (I dont like it).

On being asked why the children from this community are catching rats and not getting food, Rupesh of the Right to Food Campaign, said, No one cares for these children and their community.

Parents of these children are mostly illiterate and there is no reach out program for them. They lack proper documents to get the social welfare schemes of the government, he said.

As these children are not registered at Anganwadi centres under Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS), they remain deprived of the benefits of the scheme, like getting nutritious food.

Sudha Verghese, a Padma Shree awardee social worker, while talking to TwoCircles.net said that the Mushar community is at the mercy of many things, they are at the mercy of even rats too.

She said that it is not important whether they eat rats or not, but the question is do they have a choice? Can they afford mutton or chicken? No, she added.

Sudha Didi, as she is popularly known, is working for the upliftment of Mushar children for the last 21 years. She rues that Mushars still face untouchability. Their women are asked to sit apart in marriage ceremonies and I am a witness to that, said Sudha.

She further said that Mushar children are discriminated against at the government-run Anganvadis.

Srikant, author of the book Bihar Mein Dalit Andolan (Dalit Movement in Bihar) told TwoCircles.net that the caste name is indicative of their eating habit: Mus meaning rat, Mushar means one who eat rats.

Srikant said that Mushars are considered untouchables and the stigma continues.

According to Srikant, Mushars used to work as bonded labourers earlier in time and they were given land at the outskirts of the city to live on. They were not allowed to mix in the society. They speak a different language and found mainly in the central Bihar and some parts of Jharkhand, he said.

Sudha said that it is getting tough for the Mushars to even catch rats as agricultural lands are bought by the big apartment builders.

She explains that the elder men do some daily wage labour but that is not enough for their livelihood. Their women cannot go to catch rats.

Therefore, their children are asked to do the same, she said.

In his book, Srikant writes that Mushars used to catch fish and collect forest produce. They also used to collect wood from the forests and sold it as fuel, he said.

Rupesh rues that society has still not accepted the Mushars as fellow human beings and they are not allowed to mingle. First they would not go to the community kitchens apprehending rebuke and then chances are high that they would be driven away, opines Rupesh.

Rupesh said that many of the Mushars in Patna have been displaced as constructions like flyovers, new bus stands and railway tracks have dismantled their mud houses.

In last years lockdown, the Bihar government asked the ward councillors and Jeevika Deedis to accept an application for Ration Cards but it is reported that hardly 10 per cent are getting ration on subsidized rate. In other states of India, temporary ration cards are given to the needy but in Bihar the same facility is unavailable.

Rupesh comments that it is not practical to expect that Mushars would go to the government facilities, instead, the government should reach to them to educate them and provide the benefit of government schemes meant for the Dalit community with automatic inclusion. Mushar community both in rural and urban areas should be either exempted from the entitlement documents or be provided those with great care, he said.

Sudha is of the opinion that the Mushar community should be mainstreamed. They need to get the basic Roti-Kapda-Makan. They dont have land. They must be provided with a piece of land to live. They still dont get clean water and toilets. How can we think of their upliftment without these basic amenities, she added.

Sami Ahmad is a freelance journalist based in Patna, Bihar.
A prosecutor urged jurors to find a farm laborer guilty of first-degree murder in the 2018 abduction and stabbing death of a University of Iowa student and dismiss his version of the story that two mystery men forced him to help them. (May 27)

Video Transcript

- That there weren't two other guys. That's a figment of his imagination. All of the credible evidence in this case, all of it, points at him. Justice in this case, ladies and gentlemen, is a verdict of murder in the first degree. Thank you.

CHAD FRESE: Mr. Brown suggests that those versions of the events were as a result of knowing what the evidence was and having time to rehearse them. I said, it makes no sense. It makes every bit as much sense as the state's theory that an undocumented immigrant runs up alongside Mollie Tibbetts on a highway, in broad daylight, gets angry and decides to stab her.

Folks, there is serious doubt in this case. Series doubt. Cristhian Bahena Rivera has not had the case against him proven beyond a reasonable doubt. And the only verdict that you can come up with under these facts, and what you heard right there, is not guilty.
DUBLIN (Reuters) - Ireland will call on the United Nations International Civil Aviation Organization to conduct an impartial probe into the "forced landing" of a Ryanair jet in Minsk at a meeting of the council later on Thursday, its transport minister said.

International condemnation of the scrambling of a fighter jet and the use of what turned out to be a false bomb alert to divert the flight to Minsk and detain a dissident Belarusian journalist has focused mainly on accusations of state-sponsored hijacking and rights violations.

But Europe's aviation regulator said on Wednesday that Belarus's actions had also cast doubt on its ability to provide safe air navigation, and some international officials are pushing for an investigation close to the type seen when a plane crashes or something goes technically wrong.

"What we'll be looking for is an investigation under Article 55e of the Convention of the Council (ICAO) and my understanding is that this would be the first such investigation," Eamon Ryan said.

He was speaking after a meeting of ministers at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development's International Transport Forum, in which several other countries condemned what Ryan described as a "coercive, forced landing." No common position on the issue was agreed at the meeting.

Article 55e gives the council the power to "investigate, at the request of any contracting state, any situation which may appear to present avoidable obstacles to the development of international air navigation."

Ryan said he would expect such an investigation to be turned around by approximately the end of June.

"We need a full probe, a thorough investigation," he said. Ryan is to attend an urgent meeting of ICAO's 36-member council, later on Thursday at a meeting that will also include government ministers from Poland, Lithuania and Belarus. Ryan will attend the meeting because Ryanair is registered in Ireland.

(This story corrects paragraph 5 to make clear ministers at the OECD's International Transport Forum did no agree a common position on Belarus issue)

(Reporting by Conor Humphries; editing by John Stonestreet, Alexandra Hudson)
LONDON (AP)  Irelands parliament has passed a motion describing Israeli settlements and other policies in the occupied West Bank as de facto annexation - some of the strongest language ever offered by a European Union nation on the issue.

The motion passed Wednesday by the Dail, the lower house of Irelands parliament, condemned the recent and ongoing forced displacement of Palestinian communities in the occupied Palestinian territory. Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney said the motion conveys Ireland's concern that Israels actions are undermining prospects for a two-state solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

We need to speak the truth, Coveney tweeted Thursday. The scale, pace & strategic nature of Israels actions on settlements, demolitions & evictions is de facto annexation.

Israel's Foreign Ministry rejected what it described as Irelands outrageous and baseless position on Israeli settlements. It said the parliamentary motion constitutes a victory for extremist Palestinian factions."

Irish lawmakers approved the motion less than a week after Israel and the militant Hamas group ruling Gaza agreed to an informal cease-fire ending an 11-day war that left more than 250 people dead  the vast majority Palestinians.

Israel captured east Jerusalem, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip in a 1967 war, territories the Palestinians want for a future state. It withdrew soldiers and settlers from Gaza in 2005 but has consolidated its control over the West Bank, now home to nearly 500,000 Jewish settlers.

The Palestinians view the settlements as a violation of international law and a major obstacle to peace, a position with wide international support. There have been no substantive peace talks in more than a decade, leading the Palestinians and many rights groups to describe Israel's control of the West Bank as de facto annexation.

Israel views the West Bank as the historical and biblical heartland of the Jewish people. Plans to formally annex up to a third of the West Bank enjoyed wide support in Israel but were put on hold last year after a U.S.-brokered normalization agreement with the United Arab Emirates.

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The Irish motion, put forward by the opposition party Sinn Fein, received cross-party support.

Illegal land grabs, annexation of Palestinian land & homes has been called out by Dail (Parliament) in Dublin, Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said on Twitter. The motion tabled by @sinnfeinireland & supported by all must mark new assertive, consistent confrontation of Israeli crimes against Palestine.

In a separate development, Israel summoned the French ambassador Thursday to protest recent remarks by French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian in which he warned of apartheid if progress is not made on a two-state solution.

In an interview Sunday with Frances LCI television, Le Drian said the recent round of fighting showed the urgency of finding a political process.

The risk of apartheid is strong if we continue to follow a logic of one state, or of status quo," he said, adding that the idea of a two-state solution "is starting to disappear.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi said those remarks were unacceptable and distort reality."

Israel is a democratic country that upholds the rule of law, and I unequivocally reject any attempt to undermine these facts and the foundations of the State of Israel, Ashkenazi said.

The Israeli human rights group B'Tselem and the New York-based Human Rights Watch each released reports earlier this year saying Israel was practicing apartheid in the occupied territories and within its own borders by systematically denying Palestinians equal rights. Israel rejected the characterizations and said it treats its Jewish and Arab citizens equally.
Carla Fracci, Italy's most celebrated ballet dancer best known for her performances as Giselle, has died at the age of 84, Milan's La Scala opera house announced Thursday.

Educated at La Scala from an early age before rising to become its prima ballerina, Fracci went on to light up stages around the world, partnering stars such as Rudolf Nureyev and Mikhail Baryshnikov.

She left the Milan theatre in 1963 in search of more money and opportunities, but was always drawn back, most recently giving two online master classes there in January.

"We will always think of her with affection and gratitude, remembering the smile of the final days we spent together, where she felt she had come home," said its director, Dominique Meyer.

"With Maria Taglioni (the 19th-century dancer), Carla Fracci was the most important person in the history of dance at La Scala," he added.

Elegant to the last and always dressed in white, the dancer known in Italy simply as "La Fracci" died in Milan after suffering for some time from a tumour, the daily La Repubblica reported.

Prime Minister Mario Draghi led the tributes, describing her as "an artist of extraordinary talent... an example of passion for entire generations".

- Romantic roles -

Born on August 20, 1936, in Milan, the daughter of a tram driver and a factory worker, Fracci had dreamed of being a hairdresser -- and her start in ballet was not entirely promising.

A New York Times profile in 1981 revealed that she almost failed the ballet school entrance exam, and struggled with classes at first.

"School was a crashing bore and a terrible chore, until one day when I was cast as the girl with the mandolin in 'Sleeping Beauty'," she told the newspaper back then.

"Once on stage, next to Margot Fonteyn, I suddenly changed my mind.

"Dancing to an audience was something entirely different from dancing at school. I started working very hard to catch up for the lost time."

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After leaving La Scala she went freelance, with the support of her husband, set designer Beppe Menegatti, with whom she had a son.

Hailed for her dramatic approach to dancing, her technical skill and lightness, she was known for classic romantic roles such as Giselle and Juliet, but she also took part in original commissions.

She starred in a number of films and in her later years directed numerous major ballet companies in Italy, notably in Naples, Verona and, for a decade from 2000, the Rome Opera Ballet.

In 2004, she was named goodwill ambassador for the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Manuel Legris, director of La Scala's ballet corps, said her death "leaves us astonished, on tiptoe like Giselle, a spirit who remains with us, filling the ballrooms, the stage and our hearts."

glr-ar/ams/gd
A Georgia sheriffs deputy has been demoted after his K-9 companion was found dead inside a hot patrol car.

Former Sgt. Willie Barkley was working an overnight shift May 13-14 when he left K-9 officer Khan asleep in a pen inside the car, according to the Monroe County Sheriffs Office.

Barkley returned home the morning of May 14 and finished a few reports in his patrol car before heading inside to rest. He usually moved Khan to a pen in his yard, authorities said, but forgot the K-9 was still in the patrol car.

It wasnt until the afternoon of May 14 that Barkley realized his mistake and found Khan dead from apparent overheating.

Temperatures in Forsyth reached the low to mid 70s on May 14, according to Accuweather. However, experts say the inside of a car can get dangerously and lethally hot even on a mild day.

An internal affairs investigation determined Khans death was an avoidable accident, the sheriffs office said in a news release. The case was turned over to the district attorneys office, which declined to press charges against Barkley.

Barkley was demoted to sergeant and removed from field operations. He was also handed a five-day suspension without pay.

Monroe County Sheriff Brad Freeman said the department plans to make changes to its internal hot dog system and is looking into other technology to prevent something like this from happening again.

The system ties in with the [patrol] car and if the temperature in the car gets above a certain degree it will alert the driver  roll the windows down and either alert on the horn or siren, Freeman told McClatchy News. Were just looking to see what else is out there that we can use.

Khan was 4 years old and had been with the department since July 2018, according to the sheriffs office. Barkley had been his handler for one year.

Monroe County is about 70 miles southeast of Atlanta.

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The Duchess of Cambridge wore tartan in Scotland. Chris Jackson/Pool via Getty Images, Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

Kate Middleton paid tribute to Scotland by wearing a tartan trench coat at a drive-in movie night.

The duchess and Prince William hosted a screening of "Cruella" at Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh.

They borrowed a Land Rover once belonging to the late Prince Philip for the event.

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The Duchess of Cambridge paid tribute to Scotland with a $1,200 (849) tartan trench coat for a drive-in movie night at the Queen's residence in Edinburgh on Wednesday.

Kate Middleton paired the belted coat by Holland Cooper with a shimmering gold skirt and a pair of sapphire earrings which were borrowed from the Queen, according to the Daily Mail's royal editor Rebecca English.

Middleton wore the Heather Tartan coat, which is available on the brand's website alongside beige and burgundy versions of the same design.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were in Edinburgh as part of their week-long tour of Scotland, which included a visit to the University of St Andrews, where they first met as students.

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The couple hosted a screening of Disney's "Cruella" for National Health Service workers at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen's official residence in Scotland, on Wednesday.

The Queen and members of the royal family use the palace to host official events and state dinners when in residence in Edinburgh. The property also operates as a tourist attraction, and offers audio guided tours narrated by members of the royal family, including Prince Charles and Princess Anne.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge paid tribute to Prince Philip. Chris Jackson/Getty Images

Middleton and William arrived at the event in a 1966 2A Land Rover which belonged to the late Prince Philip and was loaned to them by the Queen, according to a Kensington Palace press release obtained by Insider.

Philip died at the age of 99 at Windsor Castle on April 9.

Guests attending the event were nominated by NHS Charities Together's member charities and their associated Health Boards for their "incredible efforts throughout the pandemic," the same press release states.

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"Over the last year or so, William and I have spoken to many NHS workers and have heard first-hand what it has been like to be on the front line fighting COVID-19; supporting those suffering from the disease as well as their families, and heroically putting the needs of others ahead of their own - day in, day out," Middleton said during a speech at the event.

"And tonight, we have so enjoyed speaking to so many of you. You have all been chosen for going above and beyond over the last year - and to hear what you have been through is truly humbling," she added.

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A Covington man allegedly assaulted police with a fire extinguisher and breached the U.S. Capitol building during the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, according to the FBI.

Northern Kentucky resident Nicholas James Brockhoff was arrested Thursday in Tennessee by agents from the FBI Memphis office. He was charged with assaulting, resisting or impeding certain officers; use of a deadly or dangerous weapon; and obstructing law enforcement during civil disorder.

An FBI agent wrote in an affidavit that Brockhoff was among a group of rioters who climbed scaffolding on the lower West terrace of the Capitol. While on the scaffolding, Brockhoff sprayed officers below him with the fire extinguisher. The contents of the extinguisher caused vision problems for the officers and forced them to disperse.

The officers who got sprayed were members of the Washington, D.C. Metro Police Department and the U.S. Capitol Police. They were trying to hold off rioters from the Capitol building, according to the affidavit. Brockhoff spraying them with the extinguisher impeded them from being able to carry out their duties, an FBI agent wrote in the affidavit.

Brockhoff was then spotted in surveillance video climbing into the Capitol building, according to the affidavit.

Nicholas Brockhoff, a Covington, Ky. resident, is accused by the FBI of breaching the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

Brockhoff was also spotted on bodycam footage wearing a metro police officers helmet, according to the affidavit. He allegedly told officers who confronted him that he just found it on the ground.

While still wearing the helmet, Brockhoff was allegedly seen on camera forcing his way into a Republican conference room inside the Capitol, according to the affidavit.

During an exchange with officers, which was caught on bodycam, Brockhoff allegedly revealed his name. The exchange was detailed in the FBIs affidavit.

A MPD officer asks Brockhoff, Whats your name? Brockhoff responds, Nick. The officer then asks, Nick what? Brockhoff replies, Brockhoff.

The FBI says Nicholas Brockhoff, a Covington, Ky., resident, was spotted wearing a stolen police helmet during the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021.

In other footage from the riot, Brockhoff appears to have cuts on his hands. He allegedly told officers he got hurt from the glass on broken windows, according to the affidavit.

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The FBI reviewed records of vehicles driven by Brockhoff and members of his immediate family to confirm that he went to the Washington, D.C., area on Jan. 6, according to the affidavit. The FBI also confirmed Brockhoffs identity by providing photos of him at the riot to someone who knew Brockhoff personally for five years.

Brockhoff is at least the 15th Kentucky resident to be arrested for allegedly participating in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, according to federal data and prior Herald-Leader reporting.

The riot started as a rally in support of former President Donald Trump but descended into mayhem at the Capitol building as participants attempted to stop certification of 2020 election results because they thought the election had been stolen despite court rulings to the contrary, reassurances from the U.S. attorney general, debunked examples and no evidence of widespread voter fraud.

Brockhoff remained in federal custody after his arrest Thursday. He was expected to make his first appearance in federal court in the Western District of Tennessee Thursday, FBI officials said.
North Korea is cracking down on symbols of a capitalistic lifestyle with its recent ban on body piercings, mullets and skinny jeans.



Stopping capitalism: North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un implemented the ban following a warning from the state-run newspaper, Rodong Sinmum, that capitalistic culture is taking over the country and must be stopped, according to Yonhap News.



Rodong Sinmum warned that North Koreans must be wary of even the slightest sign of the capitalistic lifestyle and fight to get rid of them, claiming that the "invasion" of such a lifestyle was the reason that socialism failed in other countries.

The article was referring to the younger population who have started embracing western fashion trends, The Guardian reported.



New fashion rules: As part of its crackdown on anti-socialist behavior, the government allegedly issued an order on proper hairstyles, outlawing all but 15 non-socialist haircuts, according to Metro.



Socialist Patriotic Youth League, the nations so-called fashion police, listed mullets, spiky and dyed hair among styles no longer allowed.

Young North Koreans are also discouraged from wearing skinny jeans, branded shirts, and getting nose and lip piercings.



In March, North Korean propaganda website Arirang-Meari accused the K-pop industry of "slave-like exploitation" in which artists are deprived of their body, heart and soul. Lee Sang-sin, a research fellow at the Korea Institute for National Unification, said it might have been an attempt by the country's propagandists to crack down on foreign media, NextShark previously reported.



Featured Image via Korea Now (left) and Skavlan (right)

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SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has vowed an uncompromising struggle against anti-socialist elements at home, state media reported Thursday, as he tries to fortify his power amid pandemic-related difficulties and U.S.-led economic sanctions.

The comments by Kim, the third member of his family to rule the impoverished nuclear-armed country, come as doubts increase about both North Korea's economy and whether it will engage in serious disarmament talks with Washington. There are also worries that the North is continuing to build a strengthened atomic arsenal that directly threatens the United States.

The Biden administration, which took over after dramatic, but ultimately unsuccessful, direct diplomacy between Kim and former President Donald Trump, has described its recent North Korea policy review as calibrated and practical.

But some experts say Washington won't relax sanctions  a step North Korea badly wants  until the North first takes denuclearization steps. That may be growing increasingly unlikely because Kim is seen by many outside analysts as viewing his weapons as his government's only guarantee of survival.

In a letter to participants at a meeting this week of labor organizations, Kim said the struggle against the anti-socialist and non-socialist practices is a do-or-die battle to defend the working-class purity and lifeline of our style of socialism, the official Korean Central News Agency reported.

Anti-socialist and non-socialist practices likely refer to citizens pursuing capitalism, perceived selfishness and other things that Kim sees as running counter to socialism and collectivism and posing a threat to his familys rule.

KCNA quoted Kim as saying its important to wage (an) uncompromising struggle against (the anti-socialist and non-socialist practices) and resolutely smash them.

Kim also ordered participants to firmly maintain the principle of producing everything needed for economic construction and peoples living with our own raw and other materials.

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Kim, who took power in late 2011, has said his country faces the worst-ever situation because of sharply reduced trade caused by coronavirus-caused border closings, the U.S.-led sanctions and natural disasters last summer. He has called for stronger unity at home and urged the United States to abandon hostility against North Korea, an apparent reference to the sanctions. He warned he would enlarge his nuclear arsenal if U.S. hostility persists.

In March, Kim ordered his countrys first short-range ballistic missile tests in a year. But he still maintains a moratorium on long-range missile and nuclear tests, which would pose a direct threat to the U.S. homeland, as President Joe Bidens government shapes a new U.S. policy on North Korea.

During a summit between Biden and South Korean President Moon Jae-in last week, the two leaders said in a joint statement that the Biden administrations North Korea policy review takes a calibrated and practical approach that is open to and will explore diplomacy" with North Korea. The two also emphasized their shared commitment to the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.

Biden announced the appointment of a new special envoy on North Korea affairs, and Moon expressed his hopes that North Korea would respond positively.

U.S. officials have suggested Biden would seek a middle ground between Trumps direct meetings with Kim and former President Barack Obamas strategic patience as a way to deal with Kims advancing nuclear program. Moon said Biden would take gradual, phased steps.

But details of Bidens North Korea policy havent been publicly disclosed, and its unclear if his administration has contacted North Korea to explain the policy. North Korea, for its part, has remained silent about the Biden-Moon summit and the U.S. policy review.

As there is little chance for Kim to get sanctions relief within this year, he would view boosting his internal control as more important because he would think his grip on power might be shaken at a time when hes facing other domestic difficulties, said Nam Sung-Wook, a professor at Korea University who served as president of the Institute for National Security Strategy, a think tank affiliated with South Koreas main spy agency.

Since the North Korean nuclear crisis first flared in the early 1990s, the United States and other regional powers have used diplomacy, sanctions and pressure to try to curb its nuclear ambitions. Nothing has worked, and, according to South Korean estimates in 2018, North Korea might have up to 60 nuclear weapons.

In 2018-2019, Kim's summits with Trump ultimately collapsed after Trump rebuffed the North's demand for major sanctions relief in return for partial steps toward denuclearization.

Nam said it would be natural for North Korea to push to build more nuclear weapons and fissile material if a stalemate in nuclear diplomacy is prolonged. He said Kim may launch a provocative missile test to draw U.S. attention around August, when the U.S. and South Korean militaries conduct annual major drills.

North Korea will opt for talks if it determines it cannot endure further economic difficulties, said Park Won Gon, a professor of North Korea studies at Seouls Ewha Womans University. North Korea has so far endured very well, as no serious (internal) problem has been reported, though it's been more than a year since it closed its borders. ... But I think they can only endure until the end of this year."
Chinese, U.S. senior officials hold phone talks over trade

Xinhua) 10:36, May 27, 2021

Photo taken on Sept. 24, 2015 shows the national flags of China (R) and the United States as well as the flag of Washington D.C. on the Constitution Avenue in Washington, capital of the United States. (Xinhua/Bao Dandan)

BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chief of the Chinese side of the China-U.S. comprehensive economic dialogue, held a phone conversation with U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai on Thursday morning.

The two sides held candid, practical and constructive exchanges in the spirit of equality and mutual respect.

The two sides agreed that developing bilateral trade is very important, exchanged views on each other's concerns, and consented to continue to maintain communication.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
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Republican congresswoman Lauren Boebert has declared the word Patriot her pronoun (Getty Images)

Conservative congresswoman Lauren Boebert is facing blowback from progressives and grammarians after she declared that the word patriot was her pronoun.

My pronoun is Patriot, the Colorado Republican tweeted on Tuesday.

As many on Twitter quickly pointed out, patriot is a noun, not a pronoun.

Im guessing you were not very good at Mad Libs, one user wrote back .

Your adjectives are traitorous, ignorant, and embarrassing, another wrote .

We need to invest more in education, someone else tweeted , along with a photo of the dictionary definition of patriot. The word noun was circled.

Many Twitter users include their pronouns  like he, she, or they  in their bios to let readers know their gender. Its a way to avoid misunderstandings, and a tacit acknowledgement that peoples genders dont always match their outward appearance.

Ms Boebert has repeatedly ridiculed that kind of acceptance. She has called the Equality Act, which would ban discrimination against LGBTQ Americans, a supremacy of gays, and has mockingly demanded that Democrats call her Congressman Boebert.

The young congresswoman arrived in the House of Representatives at the same time as Rep Marjorie Taylor Greene , a Republican with similarly extremist views and confrontational tactics, but who generally gets more news coverage than Ms Boebert. Some on Twitter wondered if Ms Boeberts pronoun comment was meant to take back some of the spotlight.

You saw @mtgreenee getting all the attention so you had to up your stupid, one observer wrote. Nice.

Others argued that patriot may have just been a wild misspelling.

You misspelled ethnonationalist, one user wrote .

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A common thread running through many of the tweets mocking Ms Boebert was her lack of formal education.

Patriot isnt actually a pronoun, one wrote. I guess they didnt cover that in your GED classes.

The 34-year-old congresswoman did not graduate high school or attend college. She obtained her GED , or Graduate Equivalency Degree, in 2020, the same year she joined Congress.

Story continues

Others questioned the self-proclaimed patriotism of Ms Boebert, who has been accused of aiding the attack on the US Capitol in January.

A Patriot would have condemned the Jan 6 insurrection, not encouraged it, one user tweeted .

Why has the word patriot been co-opted by the right? another asked . I know a lot of patriotic queer folk. You dont own patriotism.

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Idaho Lt. Gov. Janice McGeachin, acting as governor on Thursday in Gov. Brad Littles absence, issued an executive order banning the mask mandates that remain based on the COVID-19 pandemic.

McGeachin announced the order on social media Thursday morning.

Today, as acting governor of the state of Idaho, I signed an executive order to protect the rights and liberties of individuals and businesses by prohibiting the state and its political subdivisions  including public schools  from imposing mask mandates in our state, McGeachin wrote.

Marissa Morrison, a spokesperson for Little, told the Idaho Statesman that the governor has been out of state this week collaborating with other Republican governors. The Associated Press reported that Little is in Nashville, Tennessee, at a Republican Governors Association conference.

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The Lt. Gov. did not make Governor Little aware of her executive order ahead of time, Morrison said in an email.

Little is due back in Idaho on Thursday evening. His office is reviewing the order and an expanded statement will be available upon further review, Morrison said.

The Statesman has reached out to McGeachins office for further comment.

Initial reaction to McGeachins announcement on social media was mixed. On Facebook, dozens of commenters lauded the decision, calling it an example of leadership. On Twitter, McGeachin was met with harsh criticism. Several users bashed the move and questioned McGeachins commitment to allowing local governments and entities to choose their own policies.

Some members of McGeachins own party criticized the executive order. House Speaker Scott Bedke, R-Oakley, who announced a bid for lieutenant governor on Thursday morning, said he felt it was unwarranted.

There were no statewide mask mandates, Bedke said. So what you have here is a solution in search of a problem, and its political theater.

Many city-, county- or health district-ordered mandates in Idaho have been lifted in the past few weeks, but McGeachins order still affects some in the Treasure Valley. The West Ada School District  Idahos largest  sent a note out to parents acknowledging that the executive order could affect its mask mandate, which trustees earlier this month voted to keep in place indoors.

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It is not the practice of West Ada School District to change operations in the middle of the school day; therefore, masks will remain in place through today, the note to parents said. We are consulting legal counsel regarding the School Boards statutory authority under Idaho Code 33-512 to enforce certain health and safety protocols.

Thursday was the last day of the school year for the Boise School District, which also required masks.

The Meridian Library, which announced Thursday that it would no longer require vaccinated individuals to wear masks inside the library starting June 1, issued another news release clarifying that McGeachins executive order supersedes the Meridian Library mask policies outlined in (the) earlier press release.

McGeachin last week announced a gubernatorial campaign. Though Little has not yet announced whether he intends to run for reelection, if he does, this will mark just the second time in state history that a sitting lieutenant governor has challenged the incumbent governor of the same party.

Dave Adler, an Idaho Falls-based political analyst, said the executive order was a shot across the bow at Little.

It represents an obvious effort to score points with her constituents at the expense of Brad Little, Adler said of the order. It now puts him in the position of having to decide if hes going to overturn her executive order with his own.

Adler said he expects to see McGeachin leverage the executive order  and Littles response  as she campaigns. If Little chooses to leave the order in place, Adler said McGeachin could spin the move as an acknowledgment of her political leadership.

She could use it in the campaign  and say: I tried to provide liberty and give people a choice. Brad Little didnt want to give people that choice,  Adler said.

He said its not often that lieutenant governors take advantage of their acting governorship to make moves like McGeachins. Adler recalled one other instance in recent history: in 1987, when then-Lt. Gov. Butch Otter vetoed a bill to raise Idahos legal drinking age to 21 while Gov. Cecil Andrus was away.
May 27President Joe Biden's proposed American Families Plan will provide crucial financial support to low- to moderate-income families, ensuring they have access to child care, health care and educational opportunities that will promote growth in the American economy, several Democratic legislators said Wednesday.

The $1.8 trillion plan includes billions of dollars in funding for a wide variety of programs that would aid families in Northeast Pennsylvania and the nation, U.S. Sen. Bob Casey said during a virtual news conference to promote support for the plan, which he says marks a "transformational investment" in families.

"This is a potential for a once in a lifetime, or at least a once in a generation, opportunity to finally invest in our kids and move us into the future," Casey said.

Key proposals in the plan include $225 billion for child care that would ensure families spend no more than 7% of their income for daycare, saving the average family $14,800, according to estimates prepared by the White House.

The plan also seeks to extend tax credits families with children received under the previously passed American Rescue Plan through 2025. The rescue plan increased the child tax credit from $2,000 to $3,000 per child age six and over, and $3,600 per child for children under age six.

On the education front, the plan earmarks $200 billion to ensure all children have access to pre-kindergarten programs and $109 billion to fund two years of community college for all Americans.

Scranton Mayor Paige Gebhardt Cognetti the mother of a 17-month-old daughter who will enter day care in September, applauded the child care proposal.

"We are fortunate that we will be able to do that, but it is so expensive," she said during the press conference. "American families are going to continue to struggle. ... If we don't do something now, we are going to continue to have a divide in our country where economic inequality grows."

Story continues

Several area educators hailed the proposals investment in early child hood and post-secondary education. Studies show pre-kindergarten education programs are crucial to giving students a jump start in the learning process, but just 30% of children in Pennsylvania are enrolled in publicly funded preschools, said Justin Correll, a principal at Solomon Plains Elementary School in Plains Twp.

"This plan ... will ensure our youngest scholars receive the benefits of early learning," Correll said.

Susan Augello Kuhl, a first-grade teacher Kistler Elementary School in Wilkes-Barre, lauded the plan's proposal to provide two years or community college free of charge. She's hopeful that will attract more people to become teachers.

"It opens the door to all who feel they could teach ... and enables young people who looked at higher education as a burden," she said.

State Rep. Bridget Malloy Kosierowski, D-114, Waverly Twp., a registered nurse, said she fully supports the plan's proposal to make permanent premium reductions for people who buy health insurance through the Affordable Care Act market place. The reduction, enacted under the rescue plan, saves the average family about $50 a month, according to White House estimates.

"Health care is a right, not a privilege. Anyone facing illness should never have to worry about how they are going to pay for treatment," Kosierowski said.

Casey said he's hopeful most provisions in the plan will come to fruition, but noted there is still much work to do. Legislation has yet to be drafted. Once it is, it would have to pass both the House and Senate.

Contact the writer: tbesecker@timesshamrock.com; 570-348-9137; @tmbeseckerTT on Twitter.
London Metropolitan Police arrested five men in connection with the shooting of British Black Lives Matter activist Sasha Johnson, according to a police statement.

The state of play: A 17-year-old was arrested on suspicions of having a weapon, as well as for possession of class A drugs with intent to distribute. Three men were arrested on suspicions of "affray"  fighting in a public space  and for possessing class B drugs with intent to supply.

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A fifth man was arrested following a vehicular car chase on suspicion of affray and for failing to stop for police.

What they're saying: "While the investigation remains in its early stages, these arrests show that progress is being made," Detective Chief Inspector Richard Leonard said.

"However, I would continue to appeal to those who may hold information about the events that led to Sasha receiving her horrific injuries, or about those responsible, to do the right thing and come forward and speak to police," he added.

Catch up quick: Johnson, a mother of three, was shot in the head on Sunday and is in critical condition. Police said there is no evidence that the shooting was related to her activism, BBC reports.

A friend of Johnson's told the BBC that she believes the event was a result of a disagreement between "rival gangs."

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Much of the monies allocated support one-time funding and will still need approval from the mayor

The city of Los Angeles has taken steps toward reforming its police department.

Read More: LAPD investigating T.I., Tiny for sexual assault

On Tuesday, the Los Angeles City Council announced its plan to redirect $56.6M from the police departments budget. The funds will be allocated to alternative methods of policing and to benefit communities of color, per NBC Los Angeles.

To the degree that the programs recommended for funding are proposed to be ongoing in nature, ongoing sources of funding will need to be identified pursuant to the citys financial policies, per a staff report.

Much of the monies allocated support one-time funding and will still need mayoral approval.

The change comes just one year after protests erupted after the murder of George Floyd at the hands of a former Minneapolis police officer and the city announced its plan to divert $150M away from the LAPD.

The funds are expected to go toward community-upgrade programs, youth and homeless outreach and programming. There are also plans to reimagine public safety programs across the city and millions of dollars will go toward community grant programs. There will be environmental enhancements and quality of life services.

A protester holds a sign with an image of George Floyd during a peaceful demonstration over his death outside LAPD headquarters on June 2, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

The money will be divided across 15 City Council districts.

Earlier this year, The City Council approved a spending agenda for $32.2M of the diverted funds but were met with resistance from Mayor Eric Garcetti who vetoed the spending proposal. He eventually signed off on a reworked plan by the council which voted to override the mayoral veto.

Despite LA moving forward with changes in its approach to policing, a recent study suggests that many Americans are not interested in defunding the police.

A recent study published by Ipsos and USA Today disclosed that most Americans dont agree with the proposed measure to completely take money from policing.

Story continues

While many activists call for police reform, the strategy that suggests redistributing funds allocated for police departments has been met with major criticism, as reported by theGrio.

The poll questioned 1,165 Americans between March 1 and 2 and discovered 67% of white Americans are against the strategy, along with 84% of Republicans.

The term began to gain momentum in 2020 after Floyds death. Activists like Tamika Mallory have been instrumental in leading the charge for police reform and said some assume the term calls for police abolishment, even though that is inaccurate.

Number oneits not what I think defund means, I know what it means, because theres a big difference between abolishment and defunding, said Mallory to The Jasmine Brand in December.

The study adds that a whopping 67% of people oppose abolishing the police, but Mallory is not one of them. She goes on to explain she is in favor of abolishing the police, but the idea does not support a lawless society.

Read More: Protester files lawsuit against LAPD uncle who ordered cop to shoot him during demonstration

Abolish police would be to get rid of police forever, right? And, I am an abolitionist, and there are many who are, who believe that one day we could get to a place where we have a different system for addressing, you know, rape, and murder and things that require people who might not be able to function in society with the rest of usto put them somewhere or deal with them in some way.

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The post Los Angeles city council approves plan to divert $56M from LAPD appeared first on TheGrio.
Colonel Assimi Goita (C), president of CNSP (National Committee for the Salvation of People) greets invited people at the ceremony of the 60th anniversary of Mali's independence in Bamako, on September 22, 2020

For the second time in nine months, Col Assimi Goita has seized power in Mali, detaining transitional President Bah Ndaw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane after accusing them of failing in their duties and trying to sabotage the West African state's transition to democracy.

He also led the coup which deposed the elected head of state, Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, on 18 August last year.

But the 2020 coup was widely welcomed by the public and opposition politicians who had become exasperated with Mr Keita's feeble leadership and tolerance of corruption.

It took weeks of negotiation before the terms for a transition back to democratic rule were finally agreed between the coup leaders and mediators from the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas), the regional bloc to which Mali belongs.

Col Goita was installed as transitional vice-president - a recognition of the army's still powerful influence. An 18-month deadline was agreed for presidential and parliamentary elections to be held.

Mali is one of the largest countries in Africa

But resolving the conundrum posed by this latest military intervention - which began when soldiers arrested Mr Ndaw and Mr Ouane on Monday - could prove rather more awkward for Ecowas, whose chief mediator, Nigeria's former President Goodluck Jonathan, is in Mali to resolve the crisis.

There is much less time. Elections are scheduled in nine months and much-needed constitutional changes have yet to be agreed, legislated by the nominated transitional assembly or approved by the public in a referendum.

And the mood on the streets is different. Last year the public was disillusioned with Mr Keita and hungry for change. But there is no such popular animosity towards Mr Ouane, who only fills an interim role. Civil society groups condemned the latest putsch.

Threat of sanctions

Moreover, regional and international trust in Col Goita has been shattered by this week's events - which have been met with ferocious condemnation, with the European Union (EU) already threatening sanctions.

Story continues

The deal negotiated last year between the military and Ecowas was based on an understanding that, although the army's influence would be tacitly acknowledged through the appointment of soldiers to several key posts, the transition would be civilian-led, albeit by Mr Ndaw, a former minister and retired officer.

Mali began to edge forward. There were still serious problems - hardly a surprise in a country struggling to contain jihadist attacks across the far north and broker local deals to end inter-communal violence between farming and herding communities in its central regions.

Mali is a leading producer of cotton

There were complaints about the performance of the transitional government, while opposition political parties felt they had been marginalised.

However, Mr Ouane drafted an ambitious programme of planned reforms designed to prepare for the restoration of a normal functioning democratic system.

He began to address the problems - such as decentralisation - that had often been neglected by Mr Keita.

Action did sometimes fall short of words. But there was a sense of method and direction; if anything, in the view of some sceptics, the premier's plans for what could be achieved during the transition were over-ambitious.

Yet, now, all this has been thrown into question. Trust in Col Goita's commitment to the transition to free elections - already shaken by rumours that he might have his own election ambitions - has been badly damaged.

For the second time in less than a year, leaders of Mali's government were taken into custody at the barracks in Kati, the garrison town just the other side of the hills from Bamako.

Foreign troops have been helping the Malian army battle militant Islamists

It is almost as if the bar for military intervention has become progressively lower.

In March 2012, discontented mutineers seized power after a wave of fury over a sense that ordinary soldiers had been left alone to suffer, and die, in the face of jihadist attacks in the Sahara desert, while the hierarchy sat safe in Kati and Bamako.

That putsch too was eventually unravelled through negotiations leading to the installation of a fragile civilian interim administration.

Last year, the draining pressure of the by now lengthy conflict with jihadists played a role. But frustration with Mr Keita was a bigger factor, with mass demonstrations on the streets of the capital, Bamako.

Map

This time, the military grievance is the removal of two ex-putschists from ministerial posts and their replacement by more establishment senior officers.

The army, or at least those around Col Goita, appear increasingly assertive in their assumed right to set the terms of transition to protect their own interests, political and economic.

'Fight against jihadists risk being undermined'

And so, for the second time in less than a year, Mr Jonathan finds himself in the Malian capital, trying to convince the men in military fatigues that power must be restored to civilians - and trying to get them to understand why West African governments, and the international community, will not be prepared to recognise a putchist regime.

And if this argument cannot be won, what then?

Blanket economic sanctions on Mali would cause severe pain for the population and serious disruption to an economy already hurt by the long-running security crisis and by the pandemic.

Yet would targeted sanctions aimed at a few coup leaders really have much effect?

Moreover, if Mali is governed by a regime that is not internationally recognised as legitimate, that could severely hamper collaboration between the Malian army and the French and other European military forces now deployed in the country in operations against the jihadists.

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Mr Jonathan knows that Ecowas has the full backing of the African Union, the EU, the US, and the UN, but he has some difficult judgements to make in his efforts to resolve the crisis.

Action that looks punitive towards Mali as a whole could allow the military to stir up nationalist feelings and paint Ecowas as outsider bullies.

But a retreat that appears to concede to Col Goita will only confirm military control over the transition and potentially jeopardise hopes for a credible democratic election process early next year.

It will require skilled diplomacy to find a face-saving exit from this week's conundrum, one that accommodates military pressures and yet somehow saves the political transition and the route back to meaningful constitutional democratic rule.
A man was arrested after he fired his gun to scare off a neighbors dog from attacking his pet duck, according to California police.

Escalon police said they responded to a report of gunfire Monday morning and arrested Clinton Wilson for reckless endangerment.

Wilson got into an argument with his neighbor after seeing the neighbors dog jump over a fence and noticing that his duck couldnt walk and was injured, according to police.

Wilson got his .38 caliber pistol from his house and fired the gun into the air and started yelling at the neighbor, authorities said.

The neighbors dog was found to be unlicensed and running at large by Animal Control, according to police, and the owner was cited.

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An on-duty Olathe police officer shot and wounded a man who allegedly pointed a firearm at police in a parking lot late Wednesday afternoon, the department said in a statement.

Shortly before 5 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 1100 block of East Santa Fe Street on a reported suspicious person parked in a parking lot there. Officers noticed a firearm in the mans vehicle while speaking with him, and one officer fired at the man after he allegedly raised the gun and pointed, said Sgt. Joel Yeldell, a spokesman for the Olathe Police Department.

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The man fled the area on foot after being struck by gunfire, Yeldell said, but was taken into custody nearby. He was transported to an area hospital and is expected to make a full recovery, police said.

Johnson Countys multi-agency officer-involved shooting team has been tapped to lead the investigation. The officer has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the investigations outcome as is standard procedure for the department, Yeldell said.

The officer involved shooting is the second in Johnson County this week. Police in neighboring Lenexa fatally shot a Nashville man who was staying at a hotel early Tuesday morning following an exchange of gunfire.

The Lenexa shooting happened after hotel guests called 911 to report a domestic disturbance involving a man and a woman. Responding officers shot and killed Darren Dejuan Chandler, 34, who allegedly fired a gun at police.
Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan vetoed bills Wednesday that would have banned the state and local governments from helping with certain aspects of federal immigration enforcement, deriding the measures as sanctuary state legislation.

One bill would have prohibited counties from being paid by the federal government to house immigration detainees. The other would have prevented federal investigators from accessing state databases and running facial recognition searches on drivers license photos.

Hogan, a Republican, announced the vetoes from Nashville, Tennessee, where hes attending a conference of Republican governors.

He also vetoed bills that would have removed a governors final say in granting parole to those serving life sentences and that would have removed syringes from the definition of illegal drug paraphernalia.

Marylands General Assembly passed the four bills on largely party-line votes, with mostly Democrats in favor and Republicans opposed.

Three of the bills were passed with enough votes to overturn the vetoes when lawmakers are next in session, scheduled for January. The bill to decriminalize syringes passed the House of Delegates by a veto-proof margin, but the final vote in the state Senate fell one vote shy of the veto-proof threshold.

The bill regarding county jails would have barred local governments in Maryland from making deals with the federal government to house immigration detainees for profit. Opponents of these contracts argue that local governments should not be involved in, nor profit from, immigration enforcement.

The Dignity Not Detention bill was sponsored by Del. Vaughn Stewart, a Montgomery County Democrat, and includes elements of a bill sponsored by Del. Wanika Fisher, a Prince Georges County Democrat.

County governments have been under increasing pressure from residents to end their jail contracts with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Howard County Executive Calvin Ball, a Democrat, announced he would end that countys jail agreement just as the bill gained momentum during the final weeks of the legislative session this spring.

Story continues

And officials in Worcester County  which has gotten more than half of its jail budget from a federal immigration contract  have said they know the days of such contracts were numbered. More than two dozen jail jobs could be lost there as a result.

Frederick County also has a contract to house immigration detainees at its jail.

The bill also would have banned county governments from offering financial incentives to companies that want to open private immigration jails.

And it sought to further clarify that local police and government officials cant ask someone about their citizenship or immigration status during traffic stops, searches and arrests.

The other immigration bill, called the Maryland Driver Privacy Act, would have prohibited the state from turning over photos of individuals to federal officials for immigration investigations, and barred the feds access to certain government databases. It also would have prevented immigration investigators from using facial recognition searches of photos held by the state, such as drivers license photos.

Top officials from the Maryland Department of Transportation lobbied against the bill, arguing it would make it more difficult to coordinate with the federal government on homeland security, particularly at the Port of Baltimore and Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport.

Groups focused on immigrants, civil liberties and progressive causes said the practice of federal government surveillance of driving records is problematic. The ACLU of Maryland argued in written testimony that this type of surveillance only fuels ICEs deportation machine.

Democratic Del. Dana Stein of Baltimore County, the bills sponsor, noted the state created second-tier drivers licenses for noncitizens and those who lack documentation several years ago so that those individuals could have identification and drive legally. But, he wrote, the state didnt anticipate that the federal government would use those records for the purpose of deporting people who have committed no crime.

The immigrants advocacy group CASA wrote that the bill is critical to fulfill the Maryland General Assemblys promise to undocumented Marylanders that they could safely get a drivers license.

In his veto message to legislative leaders, Hogan wrote that the state and local governments have an obligation to assist federal law enforcement.

I remain steadfast in my opposition to any legislative or regulatory efforts that would hinder cooperation with federal law enforcement and make Maryland a sanctuary state, Hogan wrote.

The bill that would remove the governors final say on parole decisions would have represented a significant curtailing of the governors authority.

Under current law, when the Maryland Parole Commission recommends that those serving life should be paroled, the governor can veto the decision.

The new process would have required at least six of the 10 parole commissioners to vote in favor of an inmates parole, a change from the current practice of having only two or three commissioners consider each parole request.

Supporters of removing the governors authority, including chief sponsor Sen. Delores Kelley, a Baltimore County Democrat, say it would depoliticize the process, leaving it in the hands of commissioners, who closely review each case.

Hogan has argued that hes allowed more inmates serving life sentences to be paroled than his recent predecessors, including 34 with standard requests and 11 who requested medical parole. He also commuted life sentences of 23 inmates, according to his office.

The governors role in parole is not about politics, his office argued in written testimony, but about accountability to the public.

The governors oversight duty in the current system makes policy on these sensitive issues responsive to the people, his office wrote.

The fourth vetoed bill would remove syringes from the definition of illegal drug paraphernalia in Marylands criminal law. Hogan called it dangerous.

This bill would permit drug dealers to stockpile large quantities of paraphernalia, such as needles and syringes, and sell it to vulnerable individuals suffering from addiction, the governor wrote in his veto message.

Supporters of the measure argued that when its a crime to have a syringe, its less likely that drug users will have enough clean needles and syringes  creating a health hazard that can spread infections.

The bills chief sponsor, Democratic Sen. Jill P. Carter of Baltimore, has said some needle-exchange programs have run into issues, with staff and participants charged with possession of paraphernalia. Though the charges are often dropped in court, being arrested and having a criminal record is problematic.

Maryland lawmakers passed more than 800 measures during their 90-day session that concluded in April. Hogan has until Tuesday to make decisions on those he hasnt yet considered. He has the option to veto them, sign them into law or allow them to become law without his signature.

Already, Hogan has signed nearly 300 bills into law, including measures that: grant more than $1 billion in pandemic financial aid and tax breaks, create rules for the newly legal industry of gambling in sports, repeal the pro-Confederacy state song, allow bars and restaurants to continue offering carryout and delivery of alcohol, open the door to allow college athletes to profit from endorsements, set rules for compensating those whove been wrongly imprisoned, send hundreds of millions of dollars to historically Black universities and restructure the Maryland Environmental Service following a scandal over perks for its former director.

Among the measures awaiting a decision from the governor is the Transit Safety and Investment Act, which sets minimum funding levels for mass transit in the states construction budget. The goal is to catch up on backlogged maintenance projects.

And county government officials are watching to see if Hogan signs or vetoes a bill that would allow them to replace flat, across-the-board local income tax rates with graduated rates.

_________
Mayor Lori Lightfoot on Thursday released an alternative plan to honor Jean Baptiste Point DuSable in an attempt to fend off a competing proposal to rename Lake Shore Drive for the Haitian explorer.

The mayors plan calls for $40 million toward developing DuSable Park on the Near North Side, renaming the Riverwalk downtown for DuSable and creating an annual festival in his honor. Lightfoot unveiled her expanded proposal a day after two aldermen deferred a vote on whether to rename outer Lake Shore Drive in honor of DuSable, whos credited as the areas first nonnative settler for establishing a trading post along the river in 1779.

Its unclear whether Lightfoots rival proposal will sway members of the City Council but is the latest sign she doesnt plan to drop her opposition to the measure led by Ald. David Moore, 17th, and Ald. Sophia King, 4th.

A day after the delayed vote, Moore said he was troubled Lightfoot supported the move to delay the vote, because he said the move was a cynical attempt to defeat his ordinance rather than an effort to spend more time learning about it.

To do that is a pull back from democracy, and if you pull back from democracy one time, you can keep pulling back over and over, he said. Who gets blocked next?

Moore said he still thinks he can hold together a council coalition to pass the Lake Shore Drive renaming, even with Lightfoot now officially bringing forth her own plan that shes been touting publicly and in private for some time. She presented that to (aldermen) before, and we still had the votes to pass the Lake Shore Drive plan, he said. Now shes bringing it forward officially to try to get public support, I guess.

As of today, Im confident we have the votes. What happens next, thats up to my colleagues, he added.

Moore said he and King are discussing whether to try to find a third aldermen to join them to call for a special City Council meeting, or wait until the next regularly scheduled meeting on June 23 to hold the up-or-down vote on the Lake Shore Drive renaming ordinance.

Story continues

The proposed change is the highest profile renaming of a public space in Chicago in recent memory. Lake Shore Drive is a beloved, rambling piece of the citys DNA (even though public space advocates complain it cuts walkers and bikers off from the lakefront).

Compare that with crusading Black journalist Ida B. Wells getting a stretch of less prominent Congress Parkway named for her in 2019, and with former Mayor Jane Byrnes name being added in 2014 to the heavily trafficked but hardly adored Circle Interchange.

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The DuSable renaming plan also has been met with more dissent than most earlier changes. In fact, Moore said last month he was told Lightfoot had concerns about marketing the city if his proposal succeeded.

Moore also said he was approached by someone from the administration who tried to convince him to just rename the outer drive south of 35th Street, which only would have affected the road in predominantly Black parts of Chicago.

Moore started his push in 2019. He brought the plan forward after he said he was upset by how little he heard the Chicagos founders name as a downtown boat tour guide talked about the many honorees in the citys public places.

But while renaming Chicagos lakefront boulevard would be by far the most prominent honor bestowed upon DuSable, its hardly the only one.

Theres DuSable Harbor in Lake Michigan east of Grant Park, the DuSable Museum of African American History in Washington Park and a bust of DuSable along Michigan Avenue just north of the DuSable Bridge downtown.

The DuSable Leadership Academy high school in Bronzeville operates out of a landmarked building that for decades housed the larger DuSable High School.

For the many supporters of renaming Lake Shore Drive, all those other designations pale next to this one, which Moore has argued will help South Side children such as those in his predominantly African American 17th Ward see the possibilities.

jebyrne@chicagotribune.com

gpratt@chicagotribune.com
Alma Barragan is the 34th candidate who has been murdered this year, ahead of June legislative elections (AP)

Alma Barragan, a mayoral candidate in Mexico, was shot dead on Tuesday just an hour after sharing her location on Facebook Live.

Ms Barragan had had been campaigning in the city of Moroleon, in the violence-plagued state of Guanajuato, and was a relative newcomer to politics.

She was running as a member of the Citizens Movement Party, and had encouraged prospective voters to meet her to hear her policy proposals. She is the third candidate from the party who has been killed in the last 15 days.

The 61-year-old is also the 34th candidate who has been murdered this year ahead of the legislative elections in June. Since the start of the election season last year, 88 politicians have been killed.

Mexican president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said that gangs were killing candidates to intimidate voters, and said that Ms Barragans murder was without a doubt the work of organised criminals.

The elections, on 6 June, will see thousands of mayors and local councillors elected, as well as a new lower house of congress and 15 state governors; in all, more than 20,000 positions will be determined.

Other candidates who have been targeted with violence include Abel Murrieta and Cristina Delgado. Mr Murrieta was a mayoral candidate and former prosecutor in Ciudad Obregon. According to his last campaign video, Mr Murrieta was planning on pursuing a tough on crime agenda, if elected.

Were all fed up that criminals control our streets, he said. He was shot 10 times in the face, neck and chest in mid-May while handing out leaflets on a crowded street corner. Ms Delgado had been planning a mayoral campaign in Oaxaca but withdrew her candidacy after she received a death threat alongside a severed pigs head in January.

Like Ms Delgado, more than 60 candidates for mayor have withdrawn from campaigning amid threats and violence. Of those that remain in their races, 150 candidates have received protection from the government since early April.

Story continues

The consulting firm Etellekt has said that the majority of political murders this year have been candidates and nominees running for local positions, because drug cartels are looking to place sympathetic candidates in towns and cities in order to expand their influence, operate without police obstruction, and extort money from local businesses with impunity.

In 2020, Mexicos murder rate stood at 27 per 100,000 people, its highest since the 1960s. For comparison, the UKs murder rate was 1.2 per 100,000.

The state of Guanajuato, where Ms Barragan was killed, is also Mexicos most deadly, registering 4,750 homicides in 2020, and 1,263 in the first four months of 2021.

Additional reporting by Associated Press

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Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. Kevin Winter/Getty Images

Brad Pitt has been awarded joint custody of his children with Angelina Jolie, a source told Insider.

Jolie filed for divorce from Pitt in September 2016. Legal proceedings have been going on for years.

The former couple have six children together.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

Brad Pitt has been awarded joint custody of his six children with Angelina Jolie, a source familiar with the situation confirmed to Insider.

Page Six first reported the news.

"Pitt has always been seeking the opportunity to have more time with his children and prioritized their well being while the other side did everything to try and stop that," the source, whose identity is known to Insider but is being withheld due to the nature of the information, told Insider Wednesday.

The former couple have been engaged in a legal battle since Jolie first filed for divorce from Pitt in 2016.

While the two may have nearly $500 million in assets combined to divvy up, the biggest stake in the divorce has been the custody arrangements for the couple's six children.

If you're not familiar with the Jolie-Pitt family, here's a primer on the children in the order they became a part of the Brangie brood.

Maddox Jolie-Pitt, 19



Jolie with Maddox. Franco Origlia/Getty Images

Maddox was adopted by Jolie in 2002 from Cambodia and originally changed his name from Rath Vibol to Maddox Chivan Thornton Jolie when she was still married to Billy Bob Thornton.

The following year, she opened a foundation in Cambodia (now the Maddox Jolie-Pitt Foundation) which helps provide health care, education, and conservation projects. In 2006, a children's center was opened under his name in Cambodia's capital.

Maddox had a small part in Pitt's 2013 movie "World War Z" where he played a zombie who was shot. Maddox helped his mother with work on a Netflix original film based in his home country of Cambodia. Jolie directed and produced an adaptation of the Loung Ung memoir, "First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers."

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"The film will change Mad, but as much as he's discovering the horrors of the past, he'll also be discovering the culture before the war, the dignity of his country, how they held their heads up," Jolie told Vogue in 2015 of Maddox's role working on the film.

Pitt with Maddox on the sideline benches before the Saints game against the Cardinals during the NFC Divisional Playoff Game at the Louisiana Superdome in January 2010. Chris Graythen/Getty Images

Maddox at the World Premiere of "World War Z" in June 2013 with Pitt. Stuart C. Wilson/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures International

Pitt formally applied to adopt Maddox in 2005 at the same time he applied to adopt the couple's other adopted daughter, Zahara.

Here's Maddox in 2014, all grown up at the world premiere of "Maleficent" May 28, 2014. Jason Merritt/Getty Images

It has also been reported that an alleged fight between Pitt and Maddox on a plane trip may have played a role in Jolie's decision to file for divorce. In a statement released by Jolie's attorney at the time of the announcement, it was said the decision to divorce "was made for the health of the family."

Zahara, Jolie, and Maddox Jolie-Pitt attend the Japan premiere of 'Maleficent: Mistress of Evil' on October 03, 2019 in Tokyo, Japan. Christopher Jue/Getty Images for Disney

The FBI cleared Pitt of child-abuse allegations in November 2016.

Maddox currently studies at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea. In a 2020 interview with Extra, Jolie said Maddox returned to the US to take his classes online. And in February 2021, Maddox showed off a rare look at the large dragon tattoo he has inked on his right rib-cage in a photo British Vogue published of Jolie cutting her son's hair. The photo was among several intimate at-home snapshots Jolie shared for the magazine's March cover story.

Zahara Marley Jolie-Pitt, 16

Pitt with Maddox and Jolie with daughter Zahara in Mumbai, India in November 2006. AP Photo/File

Jolie adopted Zahara from Ethiopia in 2005, right after Independence Day. Pitt adopted her a year later.

Zahara also provided her voice in "Kung Fu Panda 3" and has a small uncredited role in "Maleficent," according to IMDB.

Jolie started work on an Ethiopian facility in 2011 to be named after her daughter for children who have been diagnosed with HIV or tuberculosis.

Zahara appears to be pretty close with sister Shiloh. The two have been seen out on shopping excursions together and attended Nickelodeon's 28th annual Kids' Choice Awards in 2015 with Angelina Jolie.

Jolie with daughters Zahara and Shiloh at the Kids' Choice Awards in March 2015. Kevin Winter/Getty Images

In 2019, Zahara launched a jewelry line, Zahara Collection, in collaboration with jeweler Robert Procop, People reported.

Jolie revealed in a March 2020 Time essay for International Women's Day that she "spent the last two months in and out of surgeries with my eldest daughter," referring to Zahara, but did not disclose the "medical challenges" her daughter was facing. A source told ET that month that Pitt had skipped that year's BAFTAs to be with Zahara during her recovery.

Jolie and Zahara are seen at the European premiere of "Maleficent: Mistress Of Evil" in 2019. Karwai Tang/Getty Images

Shiloh Jolie-Pitt, 15

Pitt and Jolie's first biological daughter was born in May 2006. People paid a reported $4 million for the exclusive US rights to run the first photos of Shiloh.

This June 2006 issue of People was a huge seller for the magazine, with 2.2 million copies sold, according to the Associated Press. People

Since a young age, Shiloh has preferred dressing in boy's clothes - fedoras and sometimes ties. In 2008, Pitt explained to Oprah how then-2-year-old Shiloh would ask to be called John.

Shiloh in Venice in 2010 with siblings Zahara, Pax, and Maddox. The group are enjoying some ice cream. AP Photo/Luigi Costantini

Pitt with Zahara and Shiloh in Moscow in June 2013 to attend the Moscow International Film Festival. REUTERS/Ivan Burnyashev

Two years later, Jolie opened up to Vanity Fair about their daughter.

"She likes tracksuits, she likes [regular] suits," Jolie said. "She likes to dress like a boy. She wants to be a boy. So we had to cut her hair. She likes to wear boys' everything. She thinks she's one of the brothers."

In recent years, Shiloh has debuted a new look and been spotted with longer hair. Jolie wrote in the same March 2020 Time essay where she talked about Zahara's surgery that another of her daughters underwent a hip surgery around the same time. The actress didn't specify whether she was talking about Shiloh or her youngest daughter, Vivienne, but People confirmed at the time that then 13-year-old Shiloh had been photographed walking on crutches.

Shiloh turned 15 on May 27.

Shiloh with brothers Pax (left) and Maddox (right) along with dad Pitt at the premiere of Jolie's movie, "Unbroken." Matt Sayles/Invision/AP

Jolie with Shiloh and Zahara. Eric Vandeville/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images

Pax Jolie-Pitt, 17

Pax in August 2008 on a water boat from the Marco Polo Airport in Venice, Italy. Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

Jolie's second oldest son Pax Thien Jolie-Pitt was adopted in 2007 from Vietnam when he was three years old. His name means peaceful sky in Latin and Vietnamese, respectively. Pitt adopted Pax a year later in 2008.

Pax, along with his brother Maddox, has showed off some cool hairstyles over the years ranging from mohawks to dyed looks. He celebrated his seventh birthday with the family in Paris where they rode in a hot-air balloon and went on a party cruise. That same year, in 2011, Jolie took Pax back to Vietnam for a visit so he could learn more about his culture.

Pax with Pitt, Maddox, and Shiloh at the premiere of Jolie's movie "Unbroken" in December 2014. Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

A zip-up shark hoodie became a staple outfit of his to hide from the paparazzi.

Like some of his siblings, he also had a small role in one of his parents' films. He had a small uncredited role in Jolie's "Maleficent." Pax also recorded some animal noises for pandas in "Kung Fu Panda 3" along with his siblings Zahara, Shiloh, and Knox. Pax was reportedly helping Jolie with her Netflix film by taking still photos on set.

Jolie revealed during a 2016 appearance on BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour that Pax has an interest in music and deejaying.

Pax with his mother in Myanmar in July 30, 2015. Soe Zeya Tun/Reuters

Knox, Zahara, Pax, Jolie, Vivienne, and Shiloh are seen at the world premiere of "Maleficent: Mistress of Evil" in 2019. Kevin Winter/Getty Images

Vivienne and Knox Jolie-Pitt, 12

Jolie and Pitt bring Vivienne and Knox along with the rest of their children along to Japan to promote "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" in 2009. REUTERS/Toru Hanai

Knox Leon and Vivienne Marcheline were born July 12, 2008. Knox is the middle name of Pitt's grandfather while Leon is the name of Jolie's great-great grandfather. Marcheline is the name of Jolie's mother. The fraternal twins are spitting images of their sibling Shiloh.

In 2011, Jolie described Vivienne, who she refers to as Vivi, as a "girly girl" who likes to get her nails done and loves the color pink. Jolie used the words "elegant and delicate" to describe her youngest daughter to Marie Claire in 2011. Meanwhile, Knox is just the opposite, according to Jolie, who described him then as a tough little "dude" who likes dinos and swords.

The twins return to Japan in 2013 while Pitt is on tour for "World War Z." REUTERS/Issei Kato

Vivienne played a pint-sized version of Princess Aurora in "Maleficent" alongside her mom, a role for which she reportedly earned $3,000 per week. Knox, meanwhile, recorded animal noises for "Kung Fu Panda 3," which Jolie voiced a part in herself.

Vivienne on set of "Maleficent" with her mother, who plays the antihero. Disney

Vivienne and Knox are surrounded by their brothers and sister along with Jolie at the World Premiere of "Kung Fu Panda 3." Eric Charbonneau/Invision for Twentieth Century Fox/AP Images

The twins modeled in Vogue alongside their siblings and parents for the magazine's November 2015 issue. Jolie told Vanity Fair that Vivienne wants to learn Arabic while Knox was learning sign language.

And Knox may have a future in design. For Mother's Day in 2014, Knox had one of his Maleficent drawings turned into a gold ring. Vivienne, meanwhile, practices karate.

Read the original article on Insider
At least 88 politicians have been killed in Mexico and more than 100 report theyve been threatened or kidnapped in the run-up to next weeks midterm elections.

Why it matters: This Mexican election cycle is already the second-bloodiest ever. In 2018, about 140 people involved in politics were murdered.

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A municipal candidate, Alma Barragan, was assassinated this past Tuesday during a campaign stop.

Electoral violence, according to experts, comes from organized crime trying to eliminate candidates they think will challenge them or their business, and from politicians trying to get rid of rivals.

By the numbers: 75% of the assassinated politicians were opposition candidates running for state-level office, according to risk analysis firm Etellekt.

Its been estimated that a politician in Mexico is twice as likely as a civilian to be killed, in a country where the murder rate is among the highest in the world.

Around 94% of crimes in Mexico arent reported to authorities, per the public statistics agency, and of those that are, only 0.9% get solved, according to analyses.

The big picture: There are 21,000 local, state and federal offices in play on June 6, including the entire lower chamber of the federal Congress, the highest number ever in Mexico.

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A man who just proposed to his girlfriend, was a father of a 2-year-old, and a recently ordained minister was gunned down outside of his High Point home.

Video Transcript

- We came for no other reason than to magnify.

[MUSIC PLAYING]

- I want people to know that it wasn't a drug deal gone bad, it wasn't him being at the wrong place at the wrong time. It was just Robert, being Robert, helping, and his life was ended like that.

- 25-year-old Robert Booth saw this vehicle, police describe as a burgundy Nissan Rogue, cruising through this apartment complex on Ardale Drive, Tuesday night.

- He just went out to help, to try to find out what was going on.

- Two male suspects, wearing ski masks, were reportedly inside that vehicle. Robert's loved ones tell me, at some point, he started sharing the word of God with them.

- He believed in street ministry, like he would go to the corner where the homeless were and just minister to them, just feed them, practically give you the shirt off his back, just to show you that God, he loves you.

- Minutes later, 9-1-1 calls started rolling in about gunshots in the area.

- Can you send the police to 304 Ardale Drive. Somebody been out here shooting.

- At least one of those bullets striking and killing Robert.

- The boys is running towards the hotel. They got black masks on. It's two boys. They shot him. They shot this boy down. They're like about 15 or 16 years old.

- Take a look at this. You can see the surveillance footage with the vehicle involved in that shooting coming down Greenview Terrace. Less than three minutes later, police arrive.

- Trying to preach the word to the people and then they just shoot him anyway, I believe it's sad.

- What makes this tragedy even tougher, knowing Robert's son and fiancee no longer have him to lean on.

- Robert was my brother, he's my friend. I called him a homie.
Former Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin says that we'll never really know how many jobs, or small businesses, were saved by the Paycheck Protection Program.

Why it matters: The SBA claimed last summer that the pandemic-promoted program, which provided forgivable loans to qualifying small businesses, saved 51 million jobs. Some academic studies put the number much lower, including one from MIT that put the figure closer to 3 million.

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What they're saying: "In normal times, economic modeling is a great science," Mnuchin tells me, in a new "Axios Re:Cap" episode about the PPP's creation, controversies and legacy. "In this type of situation, where you literally shut down the economy ... I think these things are very, very hard to model."

Mnuchin adds that he believes PPP saved "tens of millions of jobs," based on the number of loans, but acknowledges that economists disagree.

Bigger picture: As I wrote Monday, small business owners I spoke with for the podcast series were unanimous with their gushing over PPP.

You can hear some of them at the beginning of the Mnuchin episode, including Frank Olivieri of Pat's Famous Steaks in Philadelphia and Dayna Frank of Minneapolis music club First Ave.

We're also seeing lots of PPP recipients get acquired, or even go public (usually via SPAC). Mnuchin, who says he made an early decision on "speed versus perfection," says he "never expected" that more financially comfortable businesses would apply for loans, although admits it was legitimate under the program's language.

State of play: The SBA stopped taking most new PPP applications earlier this month, after exhausting the $284 billion reauthorization from late last year. The only exception are applications from community financial institutions, although that too is set to expire at month's end.

The bottom line: Economists will continue to study PPP, in order to better perfect a playbook for future economic crises (pandemic or otherwise). But it's unlikely that there will ever be consensus on exactly how many jobs this bipartisan bill saved.

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SALE, Morocco (AP)  About 300 inmates in a prison near the Moroccan capital have been vaccinated against COVID-19, among the latest prisoners to benefit from a vaccination campaign that authorities say reflects a commitment to protect a population considered especially vulnerable.

Inmates age 45 and older lined up Wednesday for AstraZeneca vaccine shots at Al Arjat 1 prison in Sale, where both men and women are incarcerated.

From the start of the pandemic we weren't afraid, but thanks to this vaccination we will be protected, an inmate named Habiba said after her jab. Like other inmates, she identified herself only by her first name.

As of Thursday, about 4,400 of the approximately 11,500 inmates eligible had been vaccinated since a national campaign was launched at the beginning of the year, according to prison authorities. The entire prison administration staff also has been inoculated.

According to the General Delegation for Prison Administration, known as the DGAPR, 11 inmates have died from COVID-19 in Morocco and 626 others were infected. An outbreak n cases last year prompted authorities to start a prison prevention program, and vaccinating workers and inmates is a key part of it.

Morocco has about 85,000 inmates in 77 prisons, and their chronic overcrowding became a critical issue during the coronavirus pandemic since the virus spreads more easily in confined spaces with poor ventilation where maintaining physical distance is not possible.

Our efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19 in the prisons started from the first case in April 2020, said Taoufiq Abtal, the head of the health division of the North African nation's prison administration. Since that date, (we) took a series of preventive measures to fight the pandemics spread.

King Mohammed VI ordered more than 5,600 imates released in April 2020 to keep the virus from rampaging through Morocco's packed prisons. Restructuring prison visits, health monitoring of inmate populations most susceptible to severe COVID-19 and medical examinations were other steps taken to keep COVID-19 outside prison walls.

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Morocco has been at the forefront of vaccination campaigns among African nations. The king kicked the rollout off in late January by getting his own shot in the arm.

Personally, I was not expecting this," Said, an inmate at Al Arjat 1, said while awaiting his turn Wednesday. "I thank everyone involved.

More than 8 million Moroccans had received a first jab of a vaccine while nearly 5 million had been fully vaccinated as of Wednesday night. Besides the AstraZeneca vaccine, Morocco has received supplies of the Sinopharm vaccine made in China and also plans to use the Sputnik V vaccine from Russia.

Since the start of the pandemic, the country had reported nearly 517,810 confirmed cases and more than 9,130 deaths as of Wednesday.
Intelligence Energy Wave Attacks (Copyright 2017 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

US diplomats do not believe Joe Biden is doing enough to address the mysterious "Havana Syndrome" that has been making them and their colleagues sick.

Beginning in 2016, US and Canadian diplomats working in Cuba developed symptoms including hearing loss, memory loss, and nausea.

A later study found that the diplomats had received brain injuries, which US officials at the time concluded were directed energy attacks.

It is currently unclear who are behind the attacks. Donald Trump blamed Cuba, though the country denied engaging in any attacks.

Now, staffers representing themselves and their colleagues are pushing for the Biden administration to provide proper care for their injuries.

The group sent a letter to the US State Department in which they claim Mr Biden's administration has continued to reject scientific evidence regarding the injuries and treatment needs of the affected that that the indifference serves to invalidate our injuries and experiences.

After four years of challenges, we were hopeful that the new administration would welcome a partnership with us to ensure those affected receive the care and treatment they need and ensure appropriate care for the new cases, the staffers wrote. Unfortunately, our experience thus far has fallen short of our renewed expectations.

Like the Trump administration before it, the Biden administration has been unable to determine who is behind the so-called attacks.

The letter represented 21 US government workers and their spouses, all of whom are considered potential or confirmed victims of the Havana Syndrome attacks. Included in the message were 11 suggestions for how the administration could better serve the affected individuals.

A US State Department spokesperson said they were aware of the letter and that the department looks forward to discussing its contents with all relevant parties.

We have no higher priority than the safety and security of US personnel, their families, and other US citizens.

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Marc Polymeropoulos, a former CIA officer who claims he was affected by the symptoms, said the indifference from the government to his condition forced him to speak out publicly to obtain help.

It was incredibly frustrating, he said. It reached the point when my health deteriorated that I had no choice to go public and plead for health care at Walter Reed.

The intelligence officer said he was first hit by the symptoms while staying in a hotel room in Moscow.

The attacks have occurred in Cuba, China, and Russia, Western Europe and the US, with a suspected incident occurring near the White House.

A study conducted by the National Academies of Sciences found that the injuries resulting from the attacks were consistent with directed microwave energy.

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP)  A navigation timing error sent NASA's little Mars helicopter on a wild, lurching ride, its first major problem since it took to the Martian skies last month.

The experimental helicopter, named Ingenuity, managed to land safely, officials at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory reported Thursday.

The trouble cropped up about a minute into the helicopter's sixth test flight last Saturday at an altitude of 33 feet (10 meters). One of the numerous pictures taken by an on-board camera did not register in the navigation system, throwing the entire timing sequence off and confusing the craft about its location.

Ingenuity began tilting back and forth as much as 20 degrees and suffered power consumption spikes, according to Havard Grip, the helicopters chief pilot.

A built-in system to provide extra margin for stability came to the rescue, he wrote in an online status update. The helicopter landed within 16 feet (5 meters) of its intended touchdown site.

Ingenuity became the first aircraft to make a powered flight on another planet in April, two months after landing on Mars with NASA's rover Perseverance.

The 4-pound (1.8-kilogram) helicopter aced its first five flights, each one more challenging than before. NASA was so impressed by the $85 million tech demo that it extended its mission by at least a month.

Saturday's troubled flight was the first for this bonus period. Engineers have spent the past several days addressing the problem.

___

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.
Farage with Donald Trump (AFP/Getty)

On a sunny patio at Grandpappy Point, a quaint, middle-of-nowhere restaurant at the edge of a small Texan town, Nigel Farage is telling me about his friendship with Donald Trump. Ive been down to Mar-a-Lago a couple of times, he says, and I never tell anyone what he tells me, and thats why he trusts me. But I can tell you what I told him. I said, If someone else comes along [in 2024] with the same amount of charisma as him, thats fine. But at the moment I cant see who that is.

It is an hour before the start of the seventh event of Americas Comeback Tour with Nigel Brexit Farage, in Denison, Texas, a small town near the Oklahoma border on the picturesque Lake Texoma. Here, abandoned lots and boarded-up houses rub shoulders with palatial vacation homes; in the community where many join the military to escape poverty after graduating from high school, wealthy residents from the nearby city of Dallas buy up ranch-style homes and park their boats outside. A couple of miles out from where Farage is speaking, an ancient Family Video store implores passers-by to enquire on the door about taking over the lease. Industrial estates advertise cheque-cashing shops and dollar stores.

The comeback tour has not been received in the way Farage may have hoped. Earlier dates attracted just a handful of people, leaving embarrassing photographs of sparse hotel conference rooms to circulate on social media on both sides of the Atlantic and become liberal meme fodder. The links to book free tickets to the events on the tour were circulated among British left-leaning accounts, leaving organisers with a real-life turnout far short of their projected audience. It was a similar scene to what TikTok fans had achieved during Trumps rallies in 2019 and 2020, which led to the then-president turning up to events with thousands of empty seats and deserted bleachers. There were reports that Farages tour organisers, FreedomWorks, feared they had overestimated his popularity. And Farage himself had waded in on the PR disaster, writing in The Telegraph that he was the victim of cancel culture and that hard-left agitators were trying to silence him from across the Atlantic.

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Here at Lake Texoma, though, he is among friends. White-toothed, square-jawed American twentysomethings in shirts and suit jackets construct a right-wing forcefield around him, stepping in my way every time I try to approach. Who are you again? they ask, hard smiles on their faces, before shooing Farage back to a private area of the restaurant. What media did you say you represent? Meanwhile, more of their ranks emerge from SUVs outside; a woman runs across to join in, reminding everyone that they have met before at an event with Steve Bannon before being welcomed into the fold.

Some of the cities chosen for Americas Comeback Tour seemed like no-brainers: Tulsa, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, San Antonio. Others left me scratching my head; what was there for Mr Brexit in Perrysburg, Ohio; Elmhurst, Illinois; or Jackson Hole, Wyoming? What, indeed, is there for him at this white-picket restaurant 70 miles from the nearest big city? I ask people on the streets, in Dallas and nearby Plano and Denison, if they have heard of Farage or even Brexit, and almost all of them respond: No, maam. One tells me he knows Brexit as a xenophobia thing that was about keeping the immigrants from getting to England, but adds that he clearly isnt a part of Farages target demographic.

Speaking to those who have gathered for the event at Grandpappy Point, however, makes everything a little clearer. One woman, salad fork held aloft to punctuate her points, tells me that Farage is like Churchill, a maverick, and that she is depending on him to keep this boat afloat. Which boat does she mean? Western civilisation, of course: Hes getting rid of the globalists. Some Republicans are just as bad as the Democrats. Its the establishment thats the problem. She gesticulates towards my face mask, which is on the table beside me: I see youve got a mask. Its all about control. They want you to live in fear. A couple of tables away, an elderly couple lean over to say they agree.

Nigel Farage poses with fans at Grandpappy Point, Texas (Holly Baxter/The Independent)

What leads a well-dressed, middle-aged woman in Texas to become enamored with Farage, an unelected British politician taking most of the credit for an intra-Europe issue? Im part of the Texoma Patriots, she tells me. I get emails. Also, my son is a captain in the army and he told me about this stuff. She tells the teenage waiter to follow Farage too, because hes challenging the new world order.

We just want everyone to leave us alone

A captain in the army eschewing the establishment and protesting against global expansionism might seem oxymoronic, but the American far right is known for such contradictions. Pro-policing Blue Lives Matter flags often fly at freedom-focused rallies that offer a platform to speakers who want less state intervention. A smartly dressed businessman at Farages event tells me that hes a libertarian  Round here, we just want everyone to leave us alone  even as the evangelical Reverend CL Bryant, star of the radio show A Conservative Voice for America and Farages co-speaker on the tour, rants onstage behind him about how the sanctity of marriage has been taken away by Democrats. Does a libertarian really have enough in common with a hardline evangelist to join the same movement, I ask my freedom-loving friend who just wants Texas to be left alone? Well, he says, we have to make compromises.

Farage tells me that he has chosen to go on the tour because its sponsor, FreedomWorks, is bringing conservative groups together and that hes just a massive believer that grassroots politics is very effective. The part about bringing groups together rings true. Milling around the event are elderly women in T-shirts emblazoned with Farages face; activists handing out postcards saying Thank you for your courage to send to Donald Trump; parents with children in Make America Great Again hats; and a banner for the aforementioned Texoma Patriots (Taxed Enough Already!). In other words, the place is packed with small, local groups and their representatives, a number of whom approach me because they dont recognise my face. Rather than an event which has been marketed to locals who might be interested in the issues and the man, it feels like the result of weeks of targeted recruitment.

Farage on his US tour, which ends this weekend (Twitter)

In many ways, that shouldnt be surprising. Though FreedomWorks refers to itself as a grassroots organisation, and Farage professes his admiration for it on this basis, its long been accused of astroturfing  creating the impression of a groundswell of public opinion  and taking large sums of corporate money. Rather than spontaneously garnering the admiration of people in small towns across the US, many might say FreedomWorks instead targets, creates and bolsters conservative groups in an effort to organise them in a way that is convenient to the politicians they work with. (Organisers hit by these accusations, on the other hand, would claim these protests simply highlight peoples real concerns.) Two of the most prominent Republicans to have spoken about their work with the group are senators Mike Lee of Utah and Rand Paul of Kentucky, both of whom Farage refers to during his speech as his good friends. He also tells me that he has recently met with the far-right student organisation Turning Point USA, where Charlie Kirks done a brilliant job. Kirk is a 28-year-old, who founded the student group in 2012 alongside a man in his 70s named Bill Montgomery; it runs a professor watchlist that vows to expose college professors and schoolteachers who advance leftist propaganda in the classroom.

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As far back as 2013, Mother Jones was referring to FreedomWorks as a powerful Tea Party group that bills itself as a grassroots outfit but is bankrolled mostly by big-money donors.

Were like sheep being led to the slaughter

CL Bryant, the reverend who has travelled on the American Comeback Tour alongside Farage, is a senior fellow with the Washington DC arm of FreedomWorks. A strident, forceful speaker, he provides an energetic wrestling-style introduction for Farage, and later quotes scripture while railing against gay marriage and the desecration of gender norms. Friends, listen to me  my Caucasian friends in particular, says Bryant, who is Black. You didnt use to be sheepish. You didnt use to let people push you around. What is happening to us? Were being led like sheep to the slaughter. Later, he adds that he opposes educational initiatives like the 1619 Project, and that education is dangerous: Send them off to college and then sitting opposite you, lo and behold, is Karl Marx.

It seems clear that Farage thinks he is achieving celebrity status by joining forces with FreedomWorks, Turning Point USA and the likes of Trump and Steve Bannon, but the event in Denison feels like the dying throes of a movement that knows it is coming to an end. There are Trump hats as far as the eye can see, and tables of people talking about how funny things happened in Georgia during the election, but outside Grandpappy Point, the rest of the world has moved on.

The stage at Grandpappy Point (Holly Baxter/The Independent)

There are huge questions over mail-out ballots, Farage says to me on the patio. Im not using the word fraud; Im just saying mass mail-out ballots are not particularly reliable. Never have been Im sure there were irregularities on a huge scale. And though most of us have become used to Farage saying the most controversial thing that pops into his head, Im surprised to hear him partially subscribe to what has become widely referred to in the US as the Big Lie: the belief that the 2020 election was stolen from Trump by a highly organised group of ballot-dumpers and thieves. Its the Big Lie that powered sentiments behind the 6 January insurrection at the Capitol, during which five people died. And its the Big Lie that has empowered the further-right elements of Congress  the Marjorie Taylor Greenes and Mike Lees of this world  many of whom have flirted with QAnon conspiracy theories about secret messages from outside the swamp and the dark machinations of globalists. Hitching your wagon to the Big Lie is a big deal, even for someone like Farage.

And yet it is clear that six weeks in a far-right American echo chamber have gone to his head. This is the complete opposite of what Martin Luther King wanted, he tells me, with no sense of irony. Martin Luther King wanted us to be judged as people, not as being Black or white or Hispanic, and now everyones being divided up, and theres a lot of fear of what that might lead to. Its reminiscent of some of Trumps more deluded rants. Farage has clearly taken on that style of speech himself, asking me where Im from (Newcastle) then immediately telling me that these working-class people living in the same part of the country youre from arent actually ashamed [of the British empire and British history]. Theyre actually bloody proud of what their great-grandfathers did in the Durham Light Infantry or whatever else it was. A privately educated white man from the south of England proclaiming that he knows what Martin Luther King and my family in northeast England want politically is quite something, but anythings possible in Texas.

Victory is never easy

Farage is useful to FreedomWorks insofar as he represents a victory for conservatism against the liberal elite, and hes good at spinning that narrative. He speaks to a special kind of right-wing American paranoia: one that seeks media approval and professes freedom of speech as its highest goal, but also relentlessly attacks the free press as part of some shady conspiracy. Every attempt was made in polling to make us think wed made a mistake, he tells the crowd in Denison about the days leading up to the Brexit referendum. No longer is he claiming that the media never saw Brexit coming because it was out of touch with the everyman on the street; the explanation has morphed into a full-blown conspiracy theory, in which murky operatives tried to demoralise conservatives through information warfare. That fits nicely with the crowd, who give a standing ovation when Bryant yells into the microphone that Trump is the only legitimate president, and boo at the mention of Obamas name.

The times when Farages hubris gets the better of him, though, are the most telling. At one point, he claims that everyone thinks Tea Party activism began in 2009 and 2010, but I was doing it 17 years before. The response is muted. He tries to get cheers for his blue passport, but has to do a lot of overexplaining to get his point across, and enthusiasm runs out. A few people in attendance forget his name mid-conversation with me before the event, despite professing their enthusiasm for the Brexit guy. And at the end of his speech, the claps morph quickly into a standard-issue chant of USA! USA! as if none of his points about international collaboration and freeing the British working class have been made at all.

FreedomWorks is a large and powerful organisation, and Farage no doubt has his uses to it in the short term. As he says himself, he is there to provide some optimism to those disappointed by Bidens win in 2020. Whether his star will continue to rise after this weekend, when the American Comeback Tour  which actually only features about 15 minutes of him speaking during two hours  comes to an end, is somewhat less certain. A more cynical journalist might say that he doesnt know what hes getting into, and that the smiling people hes allied himself with wont hesitate to chew him up and spit him out once theyre ready to move on to bigger things.

Either way, though, its clear that Mr Brexit himself is having fun in the limelight. When I ask him whether he was really happy with the way Brexit turned out in the end, he says simply that victory is never easy. Gazing out among the angry Trumpists galvanised by a Biden win into turning up to see him and his co-star, he says, with a smile: Sometimes losings easier.

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Editors note: The Govans profile is one article in The Suns City of Neighborhoods series, spotlighting Baltimore communities. Other neighborhoods in the series: Upton, Mount Winans, Stonewood-Pentwood-Winston, Dickeyville, Ashburton, Highlandtown and Better Waverly.

Twenty-seven years ago, Sandi McFadden moved to Govans without a good sense of the North Baltimore neighborhood, she said.

That changed a year later. McFadden joined the Mid-Govans Community Association, and became vice president. (Mid-Govans is one of several smaller communities in Greater Govans.)

Her service included working on Neighbors Together, a festival that plants trees in Dewees Park. McFadden also serves as the community school director, or coordinator, for Govans Elementary School, overseeing partnerships and relationships in the community.

She said her son, concerned about crime in the area, has encouraged her to leave. Shootings are up in Mid-Govans, with one in 2019 and four in 2020, according to Baltimore Open Data.

But she is not interested in living elsewhere.

There are a number of things that make this neighborhood unique. Number one [is] the potential economic development that is very strong in the neighborhood, McFadden said.

Senegalese restaurant Nailahs Kitchen and Noir Restaurant & Lounge along York Road are examples of such development, she said.

The other thing that makes it unique is the desire on our part for inclusivity  the desire to see racial justice happen in this neighborhood and the importance of environmental justice, she said.

She sees a need for more racial justice work: The neighborhood is divided into the west side, which is more affluent and predominantly white, and the east side, which has fewer resources and is predominantly Black. People on the west side often avoid traveling to York Road, a commercial strip, because of safety concerns, she said, so there needs to be a way for both sides to come together.

York Road  nicknamed The Corridor by residents  is the areas main artery and boasts several businesses. Popular eateries include Flight American Fusion Restaurant & Bar and A1 Sushi, Pizza Bolis, Popeyes and McDonalds.

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Economic development is important to Democratic Councilman Mark Conway, who said he wants to set up a benefits district funded by taxing businesses along York Road.

That will raise money through The Corridor, and thatll fund cleaning and greening efforts along The Corridor, he said.

Conway referenced the Waterfront and Downtown partnerships, nonprofit organizations that work for the betterment of Baltimores waterfront and downtown businesses, respectively.

You can think about ... the work that they do to improve and advocate for businesses in those areas, he said. Were looking to do the same on The Corridor.

History

Founded in the 1700s, Govans (pronounced GO-vens) was named after William Govane, who received a land grant from Frederick Calvert, the last Lord Baltimore. The rural settlement on the York Turnpike evolved into a suburban community that enjoyed streetcar service. Govans-town became increasingly urbanized and was annexed by Baltimore City in 1918; it was renamed Govans in 1953.

Physical space

Govans occupies a long footprint along York Road. On the west side of York and south of Northern Parkway are Rosebank and Homeland, split by Bellona Avenue. On the east side of York Road and moving south from Northern Parkway are Chinquapin Park and Belvedere (which we will revisit jointly in a future neighborhood profile), Mid-Govans, Woodbourne-McCabe, Winston-Govans and Richnor Springs.

Though constituent neighborhoods can have wildly varying features and demographics, there is a sense of connection. For instance, Aaron Barton, president of the Homeland Association, said he considers himself part of the Govans neighborhood.

The biggest landmark is the historic art deco Senator Theatre. Churches include Govans Presbyterian Church and St. Mary of the Assumption (Catholic). Govans Elementary School is under renovation.

Depending on the community, Govans boasts attached and single-family homes, some with charming architectural details and manicured lawns.

Things to do

The Belvedere Square shopping center just off York Road boasts several eateries, including Koba Korean BBQ, The Pizza Trust and Gregs Bagels.

Its a wonderful place of gathering. In the summertime, we have jazz and country bands. Its a lovely time of fellowship between the east and west side of The Corridor, McFadden said.

Demographics

Population has fallen in Govans over recent decades, according to Baltimores Planning Department. Cumulatively, population among five of the primary areas fell from 6,116 in 1990 to 4,784 in 2010. Homeland saw slight growth, from 3,137 in 1990 to 3,201 in 2010. More recent census data shows population has fallen citywide since 2010.

Most Govans communities record unemployment at or above the citys rate of 7% in 2018: Richnor Springs (7%), Rosebank (14%), Mid-Govans (17%), Winston-Govans (24%) and Woodbourne-McCabe (30%), according to Baltimores Planning Department. Homeland is at 2%.

Median home sales prices in 2017-2019 ranged from about $30,000 (Richnor Springs) to $40,000 (Woodbourne-McCabe) to $50,000 (Winston-Govans) to $60,000-plus (Mid-Govans) to $170,000 (Rosebank) to above $500,000 (Homeland).

Median household income in 2018 ranged from $29,271 (Woodbourne-McCabe) to $29,418 (Winston-Govans) to $39,875 (Richnor Springs) to $40,799 (Mid-Govans) to $65,027 (Homeland) to $81,148 (Rosebank).

Most Govans communities are predominantly Black; Rosebank and Homeland are majority white.

Transit and walkability

Walkability scores for most Govans communities rank below 80 out of 100, according to Live Baltimore: 51 (Homeland), 62 (Richnor Springs), 67 (Winston-Govans), 72 (Mid-Govans and Woodbourne-McCabe), 87 (Rosebank).

Govans transit includes a south and northbound bus. The CityLink Red - Downtown - Towson/Lutherville buses travel along York Road and Ridgely Plaza Shopping Center southbound, York Road and Bellona Avenue southbound and on York Road and Seminary Avenue southbound, among other streets. Theres an app to locate routes in the neighborhood.

Issues

Govans communities reported five homicides in 2020: Winston-Govans (one), Woodbourne-McCabe (three), and Mid-Govans (one). Homeland and Rosebank recorded no homicides. Baltimore Open Data does not break out separate numbers for Richnor Springs.

We are experiencing problems with crime. Weve had all types of crimes, from carjacking to home invasion to destruction of property, McFadden said. Weve experienced shootings, murders. We have young people who have nothing to do. Were trying to rectify a lot of these things.

Like many urban communities, Govans struggles with trash, so there also needs to be more environmentally friendly projects, such as cleanups and tree planting along York Road, McFadden said.

We have tried to address [the trash] issue in many ways. We have numerous cleanups throughout the year that [nearby] Loyola University students and community residents join in together to try to keep [York Road] and all streets clean. It is a challenge, McFadden said.

Leadership

Representatives of Govans include Conway, state Sen. Mary Washington and state delegates Curt Anderson, Regina Boyce and Maggie McIntosh  all Democrats. Chris Forrest is president of York Road Partnership, which represents more than 20 neighborhoods.
CHICAGO  When former President Barack Obama reacted to the deaths of Trayvon Martin and Michael Brown, killings that ignited racial justice protests during his tenure, he had to choose his words carefully, the former Chicagoan and nations first Black president said Wednesday in a virtual roundtable.

Speaking with the Black Lives Matter organizations co-founder Alicia Garza and others to mark the anniversary of George Floyds murder, the 44th president said he was limited in what he could do from the walls of the Oval Office during similar high-profile deaths.

There were some frustrations for me in my institutional role, Obama said. I went as far as I could just commenting on cases like Trayvon Martin or what was happening in Ferguson because, as we discovered, not every president follows this  at least my successor didnt  but I followed the basic notion that the Justice Department was independent. I could not steer them.

Obama said he did not want to endanger the operations of then-U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, who had opened federal civil rights investigations into Martin, a 17-year-old Black teen who was fatally shot by George Zimmerman in 2012 in Sanford, Florida. Zimmerman was acquitted of murder charges, and Holders investigation later closed with insufficient evidence.

Holder also investigated the police killing of Brown, an 18-year-old Black man whose fatal shooting by a Ferguson, Missouri, officer in 2014 led to a resurgence of Black Lives Matter protests that had begun with Martins death. Again, the criminal trial led to an acquittal, and the Justice Department later also declined to pursue charges.

Obama on Wednesday did not allude to either conclusion, but he offered a peek into the deliberations he grappled with as Americans took to the streets and cried out for justice.

I could not come down, or appear to come down decisively, in terms of guilt or innocence in terms of what happened, so (I) had institutional constraints, Obama said.

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The former president also said he regretted that the 2012 election, through which he won a second term, did not lead to Democrats reclaiming the U.S. House or control of certain statehouses and governorships, where he said many crucial criminal justice laws are hashed out.

All the reform initiatives that we were coming up with and the ideas that had been generated, we werent able to translate into as bold a set of initiatives as I would have wanted because we just couldnt get it through, Obama said.

President Joe Biden also used that refrain during an October 2020 campaign debate against former President Donald Trump, saying, We had a Republican Congress. Thats the answer, after the incumbent pressed him on why he didnt accomplish his campaign goals when he was Obamas vice president.

During Wednesdays roundtable, Obama also praised organizers such as Garcia for building a nationwide grassroots movement that began during his term but swelled following Floyds murder a year ago in Minneapolis. He shouted out to the accomplishments of activists pushing for criminal justice reform-minded states attorneys and district attorneys as well as for pressuring local governments to question how do we analyze budgets and make very clear decisions about how money is spent.

The latter point was a nod toward  but not an explicit endorsement of  the thousands of protesters who last year began calling for U.S. police department budgets to be reallocated to other social services. That position, earlier nicknamed the defund police movement, has been criticized by Republicans and some Democrats, including Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, as unrealistic and dangerous for public safety. Obama, too, has said the defund slogan was counterproductive.

Benny Estrada, street outreach coordinator at the Chicago-based New Life Centers, told Obama he would like to see more community investment to propel his works mission. He also called on the city to fund its Office of Violence Prevention more.

Investing in our communities, I think, is key, when we talk about things like mental health services in our neighborhood and how scarce they are, and the years of trauma that our families have gone through, Estrada said.
Barack Obama speaking during a virtual session at the My Brothers Keeper (MBK) Leadership Forum (Screengrab/MBK Leadership Forum)

Former US President Barack Obama on Wednesday said he felt institutional constraints in speaking up for Black victims of injustice during his stay at the White House.

Even while I was in the Oval Office, I was viewing it through different prisms. Part of me was wildly enthusiastic just to see this resurgence and activism because my inspiration and vision of politics it starts from bottom up, not from top-down, said Mr Obama at a virtual programme organised by My Brothers Keeper Leadership Forum, which is part of the Obama Foundation.

He was part of a discussion on activism since the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. Last year, ahead of the November 2020 elections, protests following Floyds murder had strengthened the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement.

Since then, it has either led to or inspired a series of actions and conversation in the US at different levels of governance to ensure justice to Blacks or other marginalised communities.

Mr Obama said there were some frustrations for him in his institutional role but he went as far as he could while just commenting on cases like that of Trayvon Martin and Ferguson.

Teenager Michael Brown was shot in Ferguson, Missouri, in 2014 by a white police officer as he walked down the street, sparking nationwide protests against police violence. Martin, another Black teenager, was shot dead while visiting his father in Sanford, in Central Florida, in 2012.

Because, as we discovered not every president follows this, at least my successor didnt, but I followed the basic notion that the justice department was independent  I could not steer them, Mr Obama said.

I did not in any way want to endanger their capacity to go in, investigate and potentially charge perpetrators, which meant that I could not come down or appear to come down decisively in terms of guilt or innocence, he said.

He, however, said that though there were institutional constraints What I am proud of is that not only were we able to refashion how justice department thought about these issues but also to be able to use our convening power to gather and focus attention on what are the practical outcomes that can be implemented across the country.

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The former president also said that after the 2012 elections he didnt have the majority needed to push the social justice agenda.

Keep in mind, in 2012, I won. But I didnt win congressmen, and we didnt win a bunch of governorships back. We didnt win a bunch of state legislators back. And so, all the reform initiatives that we were coming up with and the ideas that had been generated, we werent able to translate into as bold a set of initiatives as I would have wanted because we just could not get it through the legislature, he said.

During Mr Obamas second term from 2012 to 2016, the US witnessed several cases of civil unrest including violence against Black people.

What has evolved since then is the mobilisation and institutionalisation of the movement, Mr Obama said.

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Barack Obama said Wednesday that "institutional constraints" stopped him from speaking out against the killings of Black Americans when he was in office.

Driving the news: The former president made the comments during the My Brother's Keeper Leadership Forum, which discussed activism since the May 2020, murder of George Floyd.

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What he's saying: "There were some frustrations for me in my institutional role," Obama said, citing unrest in Ferguson, Missouri, following the fatal 2014 shooting of Black teenager Michael Brown by a white police officer.

"I went as far as I could just commenting on cases like Trayvon Martin," he said of the unarmed Black teenager shot and killed by then-neighborhood watch volunteer George Zimmerman in 2012.

Obama explained that in those instances he did "not in any way want to endanger" the Justice Department in its "capacity to go in, investigate and potentially charge perpetrators."

This meant he "could not come down or appear to come down decisively in terms of guilt or innocence in terms of what happened," the former president added.

Of note: Obama noted that when he won in 2012, he didn't have congressional or gubernatorial majorities, which prevented him from pushing through social justice reforms.

"All the reform initiatives that we were coming up with, and the ideas that had been generated, we weren't able to translate into as bold a set of initiatives as I would have wanted," he said.

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QUETTA, Pakistan (AP)  Pakistani security forces on Thursday shot and killed four members of the Pakistani Taliban in a shootout in the countrys southwest, a spokesman for the counter-terrorism department said.

The fighting took place on the outskirts of Quetta, the provincial capita of Baluchistan, according to the provincial counter-terrorism department. The militants were from the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, as the Pakistani Taliban are known. They are a separate group from the Afghan Taliban.

Acting on intelligence, officers seized explosives and weapons, the department said in a statement. The four, who were involved in multiple attacks in the past on security forces and civilians, were planning an attack on an important installation, it said, without elaborating.

Secessionist groups in Baluchistan have staged a long-running insurgency to push for independence from the central government in Islamabad. The Pakistani Taliban and the Islamic State group also have a presence there.
Roland Garros has been a happy hunting ground for many of the greatest Grand Slam champions, but rising stars Naomi Osaka and Daniil Medvedev are hoping to avoid joining the list of tennis' big names who could never conquer the Parisian clay.

For every Rafael Nadal, bidding for a 14th Roland Garros triumph this year, there is a Pete Sampras -- the 14-time major winner who never even reached a French Open final.

The gruelling challenge posed by playing on clay makes the calendar's second Grand Slam event a very different test to the other three.

Sampras won Wimbledon seven times, while John McEnroe, a seven-time major victor, just once reached the French Open final only to lose an epic five-set clash with Ivan Lendl.

Japan's Osaka is already a four-time Grand Slam champion, at the age of 23, but is still yet to reach the second week at Roland Garros, or Wimbledon.

All her WTA Tour titles have come on hard courts and clay is the only surface the world number two has never reached a professional final on.

"I'm just not that comfortable on it (clay) still, and I'm not sure if it's because I need to play longer on it or if I just haven't grown up on it," Osaka admitted ahead of the Italian Open earlier this month, when she lost in her first match to world number 31 Jessica Pegula.

"Mentally it's a bit harder because you have to structure the points differently.

"There are bad bounces and stuff. I get quite frustrated. So, yeah, mentally I think it's a bit more taxing."

- Clay 'tougher' physically -

The difficulty of adapting to all three major surfaces is shown by the fact only 18 players -- eight men and 10 women -- have completed the career Grand Slam in history.

But Osaka may take inspiration from the last woman to achieve the feat, Maria Sharapova, who did not reach the Roland Garros final until the 10th time of asking, but eventually made it the only major tournament she won twice.

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Traditionally, it has been the players who rely on a big serve and net play who struggle more on clay.

"Physically, it is tougher to end points so that makes it trickier," McEnroe told Eurosport last year.

"You have to be in that frame of mind where you have to restart points that you thought you had already won, so it is just the psychology that was more difficult for me as time went on, so it just made it very difficult to get all the way."

- One win in nine -

Russia's Medvedev is widely expected to become a multiple Grand Slam champion, having reached the Australian and US Open finals and won the ATP Finals, beating all the world's top three players en route to the title.

But the 25-year-old has won just one of his last nine matches on clay, a sequence which started with defeat by Dominic Thiem in the 2019 Barcelona Open final.

After the only time world number two Medvedev claimed a match victory in that run, against Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in Madrid on May 5, he ironically said to the camera: "I love clay."

Medvedev has lost all four matches he has played at the French Open.

Just being able to win matches against top players on clay is no guarantee for lifting either the Coupe des Mousquetaires or the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen though.

Sampras and seven-time Slam winner Venus Williams both claimed multiple clay-court titles, including an Italian Open each, but never replicated that form in Paris.

Boris Becker, a Wimbledon champion three times, lost all six finals he played on clay and was beaten in each of his three French Open semi-final appearances.

"Clay was difficult because it was against my personality," the German said in 2013.

"On clay you win by making less mistakes, on any other surface you win by making more winners."

Cutting out errors could be the key for the likes of Osaka and Medvedev to drag themselves out their clay-court slumps, although not always trying to hit outright winners for some players is just too tough.

But, when asked where she was most likely to win her first non-hardcourt Grand Slam following her Australian Open success in February, Osaka said: "Hopefully clay, because it's the one that's sooner."

jc/dj
Palau became the second Pacific nation to back Samoa's Prime Minister-elect Fiame Naomi Mata'afa on Thursday, as the wider international community remained non-committal on a bitter power struggle taking place in the islands.

Palau President Surangel Whipps offered "heartfelt congratulations" to Mata'afa, who was sworn in on Monday in a tent after loyalists to the previous government locked the doors of parliament in a bid to stop her assuming power.

In a letter to Mata'afa, Whipps said he supported the rule of law and welcomed her as only the second woman in the Pacific islands to lead a national government.

"As a fellow democratic government, we are saddened by the difficulties you've experienced with your installation as prime minister and we pray for a swift and peaceful transfer of power," he said.

The only other country to formally recognise Mata'afa's government is the Federated States of Micronesia, with diplomats elsewhere hedging their bets to see if her predecessor Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi clings on to power.

Malielegaoi has refused to concede he narrowly lost an April 9 general election, insisting he remains leader of the nation of 220,000 despite the vote and a string of election-relation court decisions that have gone against him.

Mata'afa accused Malielegaoi, who has been in power for 22 years, of abusing the constitution because he could not bear to leave office honourably.

"The law-breaking ex-prime minister and his weak and complicit officials have also undermined the dignity of this land and all of its people... and that shame and that stain will be upon their hands forever," she said in a statement late Wednesday.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has said the world body "stands ready to provide support to Samoa if requested by the parties".

But the UN has refused to take sides, calling for dialogue, with other regional players such as the United States, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom taking a similarly cautious approach.

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China, which enjoys close relations with Malielegaoi and had looked at bankrolling a major port project for his government, said it would abide by its policy of "non-interference in internal affairs".

The legal manoeuvring in the wake of the vote continued Thursday when Malielegaoi's supporters attempted to have Samoa's top judges barred hearing their election challenges due to alleged bias.

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By Sharon Abratique

HONG KONG (Reuters) -Hong Kong's legislature approved the biggest overhaul of its political system in the quarter century since British rule on Thursday, in a decisive step to assert Beijing's authority over the autonomous city.

The move was quickly denounced by the United States, which accused China of undermining Hong Kong's democratic institutions and said decreasing electoral representation of residents of the territory would not foster long-term stability.

The changes will reduce the proportion of seats in the legislature that are filled by direct elections from half to less than a quarter. A new body will vet candidates and bar those deemed insufficiently patriotic towards China from standing.

"These 600-or-so pages of the legislation come down to just a few words: patriots ruling Hong Kong," said Peter Shiu, a pro-Beijing lawmaker.

Most of the changes were announced by China in March, though Hong Kong authorities later contributed further details, such as redrawing constituency boundaries and criminalising calls for ballots to be left blank.

The measures were passed with 40 votes in favour and two against. The pro-Beijing government has faced no opposition in the legislature since last year, when China disqualified some pro-democracy lawmakers and others resigned in protest.

Chinese authorities have said the electoral shake-up is aimed at getting rid of "loopholes and deficiencies" that threatened national security during anti-government unrest in 2019 and ensure only "patriots" run the city.

The legislature will increase in size to 90 seats from 70. The number of seats filled by direct election will decrease to 20 from 35. Forty seats will be filled by an election committee, which is also responsible for choosing the chief executive.

The new vetting committee empowered to disqualify candidates will work with national security authorities to ensure those standing are loyal to Beijing.

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In a statement, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken accused China of continuing to undermine democratic institutions in Hong Kong and called on Beijing and Hong Kong authorities to release and drop charges against everyone charged under the national security law.

Blinken said altering the composition of the legislature "severely constrains people in Hong Kong from meaningfully participating in their own governance and having their voices heard."

"Decreasing Hong Kong residents electoral representation will not foster long-term political and social stability for Hong Kong," he added.

Elections for the election committee are set for Sept. 19, and for the legislature three months later. The committee will choose a chief executive on March 27, 2022.

Chief executive Carrie Lam has not made clear whether she will seek re-election. In 2019 she faced the largest and most violent anti-government protests since the handover from British rule in 1997, after proposing a bill to allow extraditions to mainland China.

China had promised universal suffrage as an ultimate goal for Hong Kong in its mini-constitution, the Basic Law, which also states the city has wide-ranging autonomy from Beijing.

Democracy campaigners and Western countries say the political overhaul moves the city in the opposite direction, leaving the democratic opposition with the most limited space it has had since the handover.

Since China imposed a national security law in 2020 to criminalise what it considers subversion, secessionism, terrorism or collusion with foreign forces, most pro-democracy activists and politicians have found themselves ensnared by it or arrested for other reasons.

(Writing by Marius Zaharia; additional reporting by Daphne Psaledakis and David Brunnstrom in Washington; Editing by Peter Graff and Lisa Shumaker)
With "Socialist Republic of Romania" once emblazoned on its side, a Rombac plane, part of ex-dictator Nicolae Ceausescu's fleet, went under the hammer on Thursday and was finally sold for 120,000 euros (146,000 dollars).

Some 150 collectors and aviation enthusiasts were expected to compete -- online and by phone -- for what auction house Artmark called the sale's "gem", which carried a starting price of 25,000 euros ($30,500), spokeswoman Alina Panico told AFP.

At the same auction, a luxury car model Paykan Hillman Hunter given to Ceausescu by the Shah of Iran in 1974 was sold for 95,000 euros (115,000 dollars) to a Romanian collector.

The medium-haul Rombac Super One-Eleven was made in Bucharest under licence from the British Aircraft Corporation (BAC), making the country the first in eastern Europe to produce air planes.

Rolled out in 1986, it was part of Ceausescu's fleet until December 1989, when he was overthrown and, together with his wife Elena, executed.

- 'Crowning achievement' -

Seen by Ceausescu "as a crowning achievement of Romanian industry", according to Artmark, it was the fifth of nine built under a 300-million-pound contract.

"We were proud of this type of aircraft, which at the time included cutting-edge solutions," said Gheorghe Marica, a retired military pilot who has flown the plane.

Ceausescu had demanded that his planes include a bedroom and an office, where he and his wife could play their favourite game backgammon, according to a former Boeing pilot of the couple, who requested anonymity.

This Boeing pilot and several others told AFP that Ceausescu didn't travel in the Rombac itself, as Artmark has said, but instead preferred a Boeing 707.

After Ceausescu's fall, the aircraft was included in state aviation company Romavia's fleet. It was lent to Pakistan's Aero Asia for some time before being left in a hangar.

Romavia went bankrupt in 2014, and its assets were put up for sale.

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To prevent it from being sold for scrap, a handful of enthusiasts secured the Rombac's "national heritage" status from the current government in March.

"The device cannot be dismembered or modified, and above all cannot leave Romanian territory," Adrian Ciutan, the former Rombac technician behind the campaign, told AFP.

But it could be exhibited or -- with a significant investment -- be revived.

"It's hard to revive it. It should be re-motorised as its current motors are not authorised because of the noise they make. Also, its parts have expired," Marica said.

- Royal welcome -

The plane's history dates back to Ceausescu's state visit to the UK in 1978, the first of its kind for a communist leader.

Seen at the time as a dissident within the Soviet bloc, the dictator -- who ruled Romania from 1965 -- was feted with a ride in a gilded carriage to Buckingham Palace alongside Queen Elizabeth II and a state banquet held in his honour.

The British wanted to "break the ice with the communist countries and had chosen to do so through someone who had distanced himself from Moscow," Marica told AFP.

BAC also welcomed the project as it was finding it increasingly difficult to sell its planes, which were deemed too noisy, according to the Boeing pilot.

Although Romania had committed to manufacturing 80 planes under the BAC licence, with the first Rombac taking to the skies in 1982, the government abandoned the project in 1990 after Ceausescu's fall.

Of the nine built, some flew under the colours of a small company, LAR, created by the communist regime with the sole destination of Tel Aviv.

Romania was the only country in the former communist bloc to maintain diplomatic ties with Israel after the 1967 Six-Day War.

Others were leased in the 1980s by national company Tarom to the low-cost company Ryanair.

Today all that remains is the presidential plane and a second Rombac, also put up for sale in Thursday's auction at the same price of 25,000 euros and which sold for 160,000 euros (195,000 dollars).

The others have been dismembered or abandoned at airports around the world.

ii-mr/pvh
May 27Falmouth police are working with detectives in New York City to find a 29-year-old Falmouth woman last seen earlier this week in Times Square.

Christine Hammontree, 29, who previously lived in New York but had been living most recently with her parents in Falmouth, was visiting the city with a boyfriend this week, said Lt. Jeff Pardue of the Falmouth police.

Surveillance video shows that Hammontree was last seen leaving a McDonald's restaurant in Times Square in the early morning hours of Monday. She was getting into a vehicle with a group of unidentified people. Pardue urged anyone with information about who was with her or where they were going to reach out to police.

She was last seen wearing an oversize blue T-shirt, cut-off light blue jeans and sandals, and was carrying an orange backpack, with a pair of dark aviator sunglasses on top of her head. She is about 5 feet 9 inches tall and has brown hair and brown eyes.

Hammontree was expected to return home earlier this week, but when she did not appear and could not be reached, her parents reported her missing Tuesday, Pardue said.

Although Hammontree was in New York at the time she lost touch with her family, because she lived in Falmouth, the Falmouth Police Department is the primary agency responsible for investigating and is relying on assistance from police in New York.

Pardue said investigators are examining cellphone information and bank activity, but he would not comment on what those avenues may have shown.

"I can tell you that we've explored all of that, and we're actively exploring any informational leads in the case," Pardue said.

Police have also spoken with Hammontree's boyfriend. Pardue declined to say whether the boyfriend also lost contact with Hammontree during their visit.

Anyone with information about Hammontree should call Falmouth police at (207) 781-2300, Pardue said.

"Even if it's trivial information, it may be helpful to putting together a more complete picture," he said.
Watch: Oprah gives her take on Prince Harry's relationship with his family

Prince Harry is set to sit down again with Oprah Winfrey as the two mark the success of their five-part documentary series with a 'town hall' special programme.

The Me You Can't See: A Path Forward will invite the participants and experts back to keep the conversation around mental health going, with speculation it means Harry will reveal even more about his own journey.

Harry accused the Royal Family of neglect during the series which started streaming on Apple TV+ on 21 May, and said he would not "be bullied into silence" over his experience.

Although much of what Harry has spoken about in the last few months covers his experience in the Royal Family when he married Meghan and their decision to step back from their senior roles, the documentary was announced in 2019, long before they announced they wouldn't be working royals anymore.

Harry's news was even shared through Kensington Palace, and it's likely the Queen would have given some approval to the project.

Working royals, or senior royals as they are also called, carry out their work on behalf of the Queen. Previously, Prince William has spoken about the frequent contact he has with the Queen in an average day, while royal experts like Roya Nikkah have acknowledged the internal pecking order within the Royal Family that affects every part of their work.

Prince Harry was still a working royal when the documentary was first planned. (Apple TV)

Read more: Prince Harry and Oprah Winfrey to reunite for another interview after documentary success

Questions have now been asked about how much the Queen might have known about the project, and whether she would have thought it was linked to his work on the Invictus Games, and veterans' mental health.

The announcement of the collaboration came shortly after Harry and Meghan had decided to split their royal household from Prince William and Kate, and set up their own Instagram account, under the name Sussex Royal.

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They wrote: "We are excited to announce that The Duke of Sussex and Oprah Winfrey are partners, co-creators and executive producers on their forthcoming mental health series launching on Apple in 2020. The pair have been developing the series for several months and are looking forward to sharing such an important project on this global platform."

The announcement added that it continued to build on the duke's work, and said the "multi-part documentary series will focus on both mental illness and mental wellness".

It added the series would show viewers "how to equip ourselves with the tools to not simply survive, but to thrive".

The words are similar to those used by Meghan in the ITV documentary later that year, before they announced they wanted to step back.

Watch: Harry accuses royal family of 'total neglect' in documentary series

Read more: Rob Lowe reveals how his neighbourhood has changed since Harry and Meghan moved in

Harry said at the time: "I truly believe that good mental health  mental fitness  is the key to powerful leadership, productive communities and a purpose-driven self. It is a huge responsibility to get this right as we bring you the facts, the science and the awareness of a subject that is so relevant during these times.

"Our hope is that this series will be positive, enlightening and inclusive - sharing global stories of unparalleled human spirit fighting back from the darkest places, and the opportunity for us to understand ourselves and those around us better. I am incredibly proud to be working alongside Oprah on this vital series."

The extent of the duke's personal involvement on screen was not revealed at the time, and certainly a lot changed in the intervening two years.

Harry, 36, was already in therapy when he announced the series, as he had told journalist Bryony Gordon in 2017 that he had sought help, thanks to the advice of his brother William.

Winfrey, who attended Harry and Meghan's wedding in May 2018, told of how the partnership between US chat show queen and real life prince came about.

She said in 2019: "As you know, hes spoken about his own issues and what he went through after his mother died and how being able to talk about it has benefitted him.

"Its a passion of his and at the end of the conversation, I said, Oh, Im going to be doing this thing with Apple. I said its a big concern of mine, too  And I was telling him about this Apple platform and he said at the end of the conversation, If theres anything I can do to help... And I go as a matter of fact'"

Oprah Winfrey and Prince Harry will convene a 'town hall' style event. (Apple)

Read more: Social butterflies: Duke and Duchess of Cambridge help children plant flowers

A lot has changed for the prince and his wife since the partnership was first announced.

They decided to step back from their roles less than a year after the Apple TV series was confirmed, moving first to Canada then to California where they are pursuing their own financial ventures.

While Harry did reflect on his experiences after his mother's death, as would have been expected at the outset of the documentary, he delved into how he felt he had been badly treated by members of his family after he married Meghan.

He said they tried for four years to make the situation work, but that they were unable to, saying Charles in particular had said Harry would face the same problems he did.

It's not clear how much of the series he had been working on before his move to the US, but one episode included him taking part in EMDR therapy, from his home in Montecito.

And there were many shots of him on the beach in California, indicating the majority was filmed after he split from working royal life.

With the Sussexes now some 6,000 miles away, the restrictions and confines of the monarchy have truly been lifted.

The Me You Can't See is available now on Apple TV.

The special will air for free on Apple TV on 28 May.

When life is difficult, Samaritans are here  day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.
Prince William and Kate Middleton took a trip down memory lane on Wednesday when they returned to the college where their relationship started.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge donned their very best prep looks when they hit the University of St. Andrews and spent their time speaking with students in St. Salvators quad and took part in the royal tradition of planting a tree.

Surely the university was aware the lovebirds ignited their romance at St. Andrews some 20 years ago as the grass located on the lawn at the student quad had been decorated with large heart shapes painted on the grass, according to People magazine.

William and Middleton were accompanied by university principal and vice-chancellor Sally Mapstone, who told the publication that the pair were more than willing to extend their time with the students and likely didnt want to leave the site of their coming-of-age years.

PRINCE WILLIAM JOKINGLY SCOLDED FOR FLIRTING WITH 96-YEAR-OLD ADMIRER

"They really listened. They were incredibly interested in this place, both because it means so much to them, but also because they want to know about student wellbeing after this terrible 15 months," Mapstone said, adding that the parents of Prince George, 7, Princess Charlotte, 5, and Prince Louis, 3, "have a brilliant relationship."

"You feel you are in the company of two people who are very happy with each other, know each other really well. That transfers over to how they interact with others," Mapstone maintained to People. "They understand each other, they like each other and that communicates itself. It communicates itself and feels very natural  not in any way contrived  and that really helps people."

PRINCE WILLIAM CONFUSED AS TO WHY BROTHER HARRY KEEPS THROWING HIS FAMILY UNDER THE BUS: REPORT

The university official added: "Also they want to get to the heart of the matter. So, they are not going to stand on ceremony but at the same time they also have those impeccable good manners that take you somewhere. It's not just about being chilled and relaxed, it's also about being very polite  and there is something to be learned from that."

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PRINCE WILLIAM RECALLS PAINFUL MEMORY LEARNING OF PRINCESS DIANA'S DEATH

While basking in all of their memories, the pair planted a silver birch with two students Deanna Coleman, 22, and Abi Whitefield, 25, as the university is pledging to plant trees in the St. Andrews Forest in a concerted effort to neutralize the use of carbon by transport over the next 600 years.

A 22-year-old university student, Joe Horsnell, told People, William and Middleton "were asking about what the university had done for us, for our wellbeing," and were right at home in their return to their old stomping grounds.

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"They were here as alumni," he said. "You could tell it felt like coming home for them."
Rep. Adam Schiff chairs the House intelligence committee. Saul Loeb/Getty Images

Rep. Adam Schiff said it is "critical" to allow the IC to complete its probe of COVID-19 origins.

President Biden said Wednesday he gave the intelligence community 90 days to further probe COVID-19's origins.

Schiff said the IC continues to investigate the "two most likely scenarios" - animal to human transmission or a possible lab leak.

See more stories on Insider's business page.

Rep. Adam Schiff said Wednesday it is "critical" for the US to finish its investigation into the origins of COVID-19 to "avoid any premature or politically-motivated conclusions."

Schiff's remarks came in response to President Joe Biden announcing a 90-day deadline for the intelligence community to further probe the veracity of the coronavirus originating from a possible lab leak.

Schiff, who serves as House Intelligence Committee Chair, said in a statement that the Committee was tasked with taking a "deep dive" into what the intelligence community has collected thus far about the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly on "the emergence and spread of COVID-19 from China."

He said the intelligence community continues to investigate the "two most likely scenarios" for the origins of COVID-19 - natural transmission of the virus from animal to human or a possible lab accident - but the IC "has not reached a community consensus."

"Beijing's continued obstruction of a transparent, comprehensive examination of the relevant facts and about the source of the coronavirus can only delay the vital work necessary to help the world better prepare itself before the next potential pandemic," Schiff said in the statement, adding that the intelligence community will provide relevant updates per Biden's 90-day deadline.

"It is critical that we allow the IC, and other scientific and medical experts, to objectively weigh and assess all available facts, and to avoid any premature or politically-motivated conclusions," he continued.

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In a press conference Wednesday, Biden revealed he had asked the intelligence community to probe the origins of COVID-19 in March, but the results of the investigation were not extensive enough to conclude either scenario "more likely than the other."

The investigation launched by the Biden administration came around the same time Biden's team terminated a Trump-era probe to prove COVID-19 originated in a lab, per a CNN report published Wednesday. A source familiar with the move to shut down the probe, which was started late into Trump's presidency, told CNN that questions were raised on the legitimacy of the investigation, citing concerns about the quality of its work.

A team of investigators from the World Health Organization said it was "most likely" that the virus emerged from animal to human transmission following a month-long investigation in Wuhan, China, where the coronavirus likely originated. But the team could not definitely rule out the possibility of a lab leak, and WHO director-general, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, also said in March he does "not believe that this assessment was extensive enough."

Read the original article on Business Insider
A report alleges Missouri Rep. Chad Perkins accepted sexual favors from a teenager while working as a police officer  allegations a local police chief has asked House Speaker Rob Vescovo to investigate.

Josh Baker, police chief in Frankford, a northeast Missouri town of about 300, wrote to Vescovo and other state officials last month urging them to look into the situation, which he called ongoing criminal activity.

The report and memo from Baker outline allegations that Perkins, a Bowling Green Republican in his first term, had sexual relations with the teen in 2015. At the time, Perkins was working at the Bowling Green Police Department.

The documents dont provide her name or age. Perkins, now 42, said the relationship was consensual and with a 19-year-old woman. He said the report was political retaliation by Baker for failing to help his wife in an unsuccessful local campaign last year.

Through a House spokesman, Vescovo, an Arnold Republican, declined to comment other than to say he turned the matter over to the House Ethics Committee. House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, a Springfield Democrat, called the allegations deeply troubling in a statement.

Although the girl was 19 at the time, his status as a law enforcement officer with authority over her cannot be overlooked, she said. We trust the committee to take whatever steps it deems appropriate in reviewing this matter.

The report alleges Perkins had sex with the teenager after responding on duty to calls of a drunk teen at a park, and include messages purportedly between him and the 19-year-old in which she mentions having been drunk.

Hey stop saying I offered to bang you the other night when you found me, she purportedly wrote to Perkins in April, 2015.

After that, the messages show attempts by the two to meet up for sex. At one point the teenager wrote to ask Perkins for alcohol, and Adderall. In May 2015, the teenager wrote to Perkins, angry that he had shown their messages to another person.

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Im sure you left out the part about us when you were on duty and I was drunk, she wrote.

Im sorry, he wrote. Let me make it up.

Every one [thinks] Im an awful person for doing that, she wrote. I will never forgive you.

Perkins said the report was an attempt to embarrass him in retaliation for his refusal to help with Bakers wifes unsuccessful campaign for Pike County Assessor last year. He said the 19-year-old never reported the matter to Baker and that none of the sexual encounters occurred in the jurisdiction of Frankford, 15 miles away from Bowling Green.

Asked if the woman was intoxicated when they had sex, Perkins said, I wouldnt know if she was or not.

If she were, I dont know, he said. I cant answer that. I never bought anything for her.

Baker worked until last September at the Pike County Sheriffs Office, where Perkins was also working. Reached by phone, Baker declined to comment on the report but denied allegations it was politically motivated.

The actual report in its origin was before anybody was even running for office, he said.

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch first reported the allegations against Perkins on Thursday.

According to the report, the investigation into Perkins began when Baker and another officer, Joseph Minor, were working at the Pike County Sheriffs Office in September 2019. Minor wrote that he received paper copies of the messages anonymously and reported them to Baker, his supervisor, who told him to tell Pike County Sheriff Stephen Korte.

Minor and Baker allege in the report that Korte created a hostile work environment by trying to protect Perkins because he was running for state representative. The Pike County Sheriffs Office did not respond to a request for comment.

According to Bakers Frankford police report, the issue resurfaced last July, when a gas station employee told him two girls came into the store with messages showing Perkins had sex with the teenager while on duty. The employee said they planned to report the matter as a sexual assault. The teenager did not respond to Bakers inquiries for more information, he wrote.

Baker and Minor tried to report the matter to Pike County, state and federal prosecutors. The report includes purported emails in which a federal prosecutor wrote that she wanted to seek charges or a revocation of Perkins police certification but that the statute of limitations had run out.

In April, Baker sent the report to Vescovo, the Missouri Attorney Generals office, the Department of Public Safety and the Missouri Highway Patrol.

Chris Nuelle, spokesman for the Missouri Attorney Generals office, said his office received the information but determined that we do not have any jurisdiction in this matter.

Perkins is the latest Missouri lawmaker ensnared in controversy this year.

The House expelled Rep. Rick Roeber over allegations of child abuse and Rep. Patricia Derges faces federal criminal charges over allegations she fraudulently pushed stem cell treatments. Last year, the House reprimanded Rep. Wiley Price over allegations he retaliated against his staff for reporting that he had bragged about having sex with an intern.

Perkins is listed on the Pike County Sheriffs Office website as the departments D.A.R.E. officer, working with local schools on drug prevention education.

He said between the Bowling Green and Pike County departments, he worked a total of 20 years in law enforcement. He left the sheriffs office when he won his election but might continue to do some volunteering there. His legislative biography states he works as an on-air radio host. It makes no mention of any work as a police officer.

He won a five-way Republican primary for the 40th District House of Representatives seat last August, getting 50.6% of the vote, and ran unopposed in the general election.

In his first term, he pushed legislation for police departments to participate in a statewide use-of-force database and work requirement rules for food stamps recipients. Lawmakers this year passed a bill that criminalizes police officers having sex with detainees. Perkins voted for it.
By Janis Laizans and Andrius Sytas

SALCININKAI BORDER CROSSING POINT, Lithuania (Reuters) -Reporters Without Borders (RSF) on Thursday held a protest against the treatment of journalists by Belarus at the country's border with Lithuania, while the leader of Belarus opposition in exile called for more protests on Saturday.

On Sunday Belarus forcibly landed a Ryanair plane flying from Athens to Vilnius and arrested the opposition blogger Roman Protasevich and his girlfriend, who were on board.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said this week that Protasevich had been plotting a "bloody rebellion."

The incident sparked international outrage and calls for sanctions against Belarus. Minsk accused the West of using the episode to wage "hybrid war."

Protasevich was "alive, well", his lawyer said after meeting him, Russian state news agency RIA reported on Thursday.

His social media feed from exile had been one of the last remaining independent sources of news about Belarus, a country sandwiched between Russia and the NATO Western security alliance.

RSF Secretary General Christophe Deloire, who headed the protests, told reporters on Wednesday in Vilnius that Belarus' actions were part of a new way of attacking press freedom and that this was something "not imaginable a few years ago."

"In Belarus, there is an institutional hijacking of a plane, just to arrest the journalist," he said.

He and a dozen Lithuanian and Belarusian protesters held pictures of journalists jailed in Belarus, including Protasevich.

Svetlana Tikhanouskaya, who challenged Belarus' incumbent leader Alexander Lukashenko at the August presidential election and had to leave the country soon after, announced an international act of solidarity with Belarusians on May 29.

Tikhanouskaya, in Vilnius, called on people to take part in protests with local politicians.

Lukashenko has said street protests were no longer possible in Belarus.

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Since the crackdown that followed the contested Aug. 9 presidential election in Belarus, 430 journalists were arrested and 20 are still in jail in the country, according to the press advocacy group's count.

Belarus ranks 158th out of 180 countries in RSF's World Press Freedom Index.

(Reporting by Janis Laizans in Salcininkai and Andrius Sytas in Vilnius, additional reporting by Andrey Ostroukh in Moscow; Editing by Alexandra Hudson)
NASHVILLE, Tennessee  Gov. Bill Lee, hosting other Republican politicians in Nashville this week as part of the Republican Governors Association conference, pointed to the neon lights around the corner Wednesday as an example of the country moving forward from the pandemic.

"Our model you can see out on Broadway," Lee said  referring to Nashville's popular street of bars and entertainment venues  during a town hall forum with Fox News host Sean Hannity. "It's open. Our businesses are open. People are going to restaurants. They're going to bars. They're wearing masks."

The event featuring five other GOP governors was taped live from the J.W. Marriott hotel in downtown Nashville on Wednesday night, where the RGA gathering was being held.

Gov. Bill Lee announces a new series of partnerships to fight human trafficking during a press conference at the State Capitol Thursday, May 13, 2021 in Nashville, Tenn.

There was never a statewide mask mandate in Tennessee, and Nashville, where a mask order stayed in place longer than most other cities, lifted its mandate earlier this month.

"The health crisis is over," Lee said. "The emergency is over. We have fully opened up, and we're moving our state forward.

"The left likes to say follow the science until they dont. You can't say follow the science and keep kids out of school. You can't say follow the science and wear a mask after you're vaccinated. You certainly can't put COVID patients back into the nursing home if you follow the science."

Just after Lee's comments, Hannity called on South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, who replied that she "never closed a single business ever."

"I didnt believe I had the authority to tell anybody that their business was essential," Noem said.

More: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis says he'll pardon violators of local mask, distancing laws

Lee has faced criticism from a vocal faction of the far right-wing of the party over his decision to restrict some businesses early on in the pandemic, a decision he reversed last spring.

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New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu remarked that "every governor had to write their own playbook based on what they're seeing," noting, for example, that Republican Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker "had to do the best he could."

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds touted her state's approach to meat processing plants at a time when much of the nation faced a shortage of meat. Unlike the hands-off approach of South Dakota, Reynolds said Iowa implemented a "robust data program" by ZIP code to monitor and test areas of the state where cases would be higher among factory workers.

More: These 9 states will end participation in unemployment assistance programs. Their reasons vary.

"I think we are reaping the benefits of that today, because we're coming back stronger than ever from the pandemic," she said.

Gov. Doug Ducey of Arizona also noted that his state took some coronavirus precautions, stating they "focused on the vulnerable right from the beginning."

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, meanwhile, reflected on the state's continued growth, a portion of which comes from residents leaving states controlled by Democrats.

"The lockdowns turned them into Republicans," DeSantis said. "People say, 'I was a Democrat because of education, and I'm in California and they're locking my kids out of school. I'm in Florida, people are free, people are happy.'"

Lee weighed in that life in the past year has served as a moment of truth for residents of some states where governors took a more aggressive approach to attempting to mitigate the spread of coronavirus, keeping businesses, activities and schools closed for longer.

The coronavirus has killed more than 588,000 Americans.

"Theyve been looking for a long time, but suddenly the differences between our states and those blue states are stark," Lee said.

The Tennessee governor also touched on the influx of federal stimulus money in the last year, funds that initiated under former President Donald Trump and have continued under President Joe Biden. Lee described the payments as the federal government "shoveling out money."

"It's very easy to spend somebody else's money, and they forget that this is actually the people's money," Lee said.

While Hannity asked Ducey, Reynolds and Sununu whether they believed Trump was still the leader of the Republican Party  a question both Ducey and Reynolds answered in the affirmative  Lee did not have to offer an answer.

Reach Natalie Allison at nallison@tennessean.com. Follow her on Twitter at @natalie_allison.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: GOP governors talk COVID with Sean Hannity at Nashville town hall
Alexis Cloonan, left, Aiden Leos' sister, and Carole Ybanez, a family friend, stand behind Orange County Supervisor Don Wagner at a news conference Thursday on the freeway shooting that left 6-year-old Aiden dead. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

As the search continues for those responsible for the shooting death of a 6-year-old boy on an Orange County freeway last week, the reward in the case has grown to more than $300,000.

In the days since Aiden Leos' family announced Sunday that it would offer $50,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the boy's killing, more reward money has poured in.

Orange County Supervisor Don Wagner said Monday he would match the family's contribution, and Supervisor Katrina Foley added $50,000 Tuesday from her office's budget. An anonymous donor kicked in another $50,000, and a growing group of Orange County businesspeople  including Bill Skeffington of Watson's Soda Fountain and Cafe in Orange  have added to the coffer.

By Thursday morning, the total reward was up to to $310,000, Wagner said, and he expected it would continue to grow.

"Maybe theres a camera somewhere that caught a fleeting glimpse of something that allows law enforcement to connect the dots," Wagner said at a news conference Thursday at Watson's. "Whatever it happens to be, come forward, and if you contribute to the capture and the conviction of Aidens killer, youre in line for that reward."

Anyone with possible information about the shooting should contact California Highway Patrol at (714) 567-6000 or visit www.aiden-reward.com.

It is possible that multiple people who bring tips that lead to an arrest could split the reward money, Wagner added.

Orange County Dist. Atty. Todd Spitzer declined to comment on the status of the case Thursday, other than to say that authorities do not have anyone in custody. The CHP did not respond to requests for comment regarding the investigation.

Aiden was shot around 8 a.m. Friday while sitting in a booster seat on his way to school. His mother was traveling north on the 55 Freeway when a white sedan, possibly a Volkswagen Jetta, fired into her Chevrolet Cruze, CHP officials said at the time.

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The suspects in the shooting, reportedly a man and woman, sped away while Aiden's mother pulled onto the shoulder of the road. The boy was rushed to nearby Childrens Hospital, where authorities declared him dead.

Spitzer called for the suspects to turn themselves in, saying he was "running out of patience."

"It's time to understand that the longer this goes on, the less sympathetic I will be to understanding why you did what you did," Spitzer said.

"Understand this: We will catch you. We might not do it today, we might not do it tomorrow, it may not even be next week. But we solve crimes in this county that are as old as 40 and 50 years, and we never stop, and we never rest until we put the person into custody and get justice. This is Orange County, California, and make no mistake where you committed your crime."

Aiden's mother told Reyes Valdivia, a commuter who stopped to help, that she and her son were traveling in the carpool lane, and when she tried to switch lanes to exit, a white sedan with a man and woman inside cut her off. She gestured to them and proceeded into the exit lane, and thats when the shooting occurred, Valdivia said.

The woman was driving the car, Spitzer said, and the man was in the front passenger seat when he fired the shot that punctured the Cruze's trunk and struck Aiden.

"You killed a little boy  a little boy that today should be in kindergarten, should be going to school, should be looking forward to the rest of his life," Spitzer said.

Standing beside the district attorney, Aiden's older sister Alexis Cloonan nodded her head and wept.

"We're so grateful for that outpouring of love and support," she said.

The boy's death has ignited a wave of sympathy nationwide, and donations have poured into two GoFundMe accounts for his mother and father.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Police in North Carolina are searching for clues after an unidentified womans body was found in the driveway of a strangers home.

The victim was discovered Monday morning at a house on Bright Street in Goldsboro, about an hour southeast of Raleigh in Wayne County. Emergency dispatchers received a call just after 9:30 a.m. from 50-year-old Rodney Daniels, who said he discovered the body after coming home from his girlfriends house.

It looks like there is a rotting corpse on my driveway, he said in the 911 recording. It looks like the legs was cut off.... If you could send a cop down, it doesnt look good.

The police report indicates the victim is a white female, but a spokesperson for the Goldsboro Police Department said they do not know the victims age. She declined to provide any additional information beyond the report.

This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it.

Police confirmed they were investigating a deceased person in the 300 block of Bright Street in a news release Monday and are asking for the publics help identifying a vehicle believed to be connected. The car appears to be a dark-colored sedan with a sunroof.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Goldsboro/Wayne County Crime Stoppers at 919-735-2255 or submit a TIP at p3tips.com.

Mom and seven others barge into classroom to beat up teen, North Carolina police say

Wife shot husband until he didnt move during argument, Georgia cops say

Fake ride-share driver speeds off with woman as male friend gets out, Tennessee cops say
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia's Supreme Court on Thursday rejected a lawsuit from U.S. company Gilead Sciences that challenged a Russian government decision to let a Russian firm develop and market the anti-COVID-19 drug remdesivir without Gilead's consent.

The Russian government late last year granted Russian drugmaker Pharmasyntez a compulsory licence for one year to manufacture the drug under a different name without Gilead's permission.

The government said in a decree at the time that the move was in the interests of Russia's own security. According to the decree, Russia had to pay compensation to the drug's patent-holder. The amount was not specified.

Pharmasyntez had asked the Kremlin to allow it to produce a generic version of remdesivir before the government decree was issued. Vikram Punia, its director, said the company had also written to Gilead in July last year to try to obtain their consent in the form of a voluntary licence, but had not heard back.

Pharmasyntez produces remdesivir under the name Remdeform. A shipment of the drug was sent by Russia to India on Tuesday as part of a delivery of humanitarian aid.

Gilead said in a statement it was disappointed by the Supreme Court's ruling and called the issuance of a compulsory licence "unnecessary and counterproductive".

"...We have stood ready to work with Russia to expand access to Veklury (remdesevir) since mid-2020. Intellectual property is not, and has never been, a significant barrier to access to medicines in Russia," Gilead said.

It said it believed the original Russian government decision fell short "of the requirements of Russian law." While criticising what it called inconsistency in the Russian government's pricing policy, it said it had maintained remdesevir supplies to all eligible patients in Russia.

(Reporting by Polina Nikolskaya in Moscow and by Ankur Banerjee in Bengalaru ; Editing by Andrew Osborn)
Photograph: Philip Pacheco/Getty Images

A shooting that erupted in the early hours of Wednesday morning at a light rail maintenance yard in San Jose, California, has left at least ten people dead, including the gunman.

Local leaders have described the violence as a terrible, terrible tragedy as authorities search for a motive.

Authorities reported on Wednesday that about 40 people were at the facility at the time the shootings occurred and the gunfire erupted in two separate buildings. Police say the shooter was an employee of the Valley Transportation Authority, which operates the light rail facility in Silicon Valley.

The shooting began around 6.30am local time in a facility that stores trains and serves as a transit control center, and the victims include employees of the facility.

These folks were heroes during Covid-19. The buses never stopped running, VTA didnt stop running, said Cindy Chavez, a Santa Clara county supervisor. They just kept at work, and now were really calling on them to be heroes a second time to survive such a terrible, terrible tragedy.

VTA workers cross West Hedding Street near the scene of a mass shooting in San Jose. Photograph: Randy Vazquez/AP

Plans were under way for a vigil at the San Jose city hall on Thursday evening.

These are the women and men who supported our community through this pandemic, said San Joses mayor, Sam Liccardo, at a press briefing. They showed up to work every day as essential workers, despite risks to their own health. We owe them and their families so much  For now, we need to focus on everything we can do to support these families and their loved ones.

Governor Gavin Newsom, who cancelled another event to rush to the scene, described gun violence in the US as an epidemic.

This happens again and again  rinse and repeat, rinse and repeat, he said. It begs the question what the hell is going on in America?

Newsom spoke emotionally in front of a county office where flags flew at half-staff. He said victims relatives were waiting to hear from the coroner, waiting to hear from any of us, just desperate to find out if their brother their son, their dad, their mom is still alive.

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Two people hug on Younger Avenue outside the scene of a shooting in San Jose. Photograph: Randy Vazquez/AP

Kamala Harris, the vice-president and a former senator of California, and Pete Buttigieg, the transport secretary, have also lamented the violence. Transit workers have kept the traveling public safe this past year  we must do the same for them, Buttigeig said in a statement.

Meanwhile, dozens of family members have streamed into a reunification center set up in a county building.

Theyre just sitting and holding hands and crying, said Jeff Rosen, the district attorney of Santa Clara county, describing the scene. Its terrible. Its awful. Its raw.

Raul Peralez, a local city council member, said he was waiting to hear from a close friend who worked at the transit center.

This hits close to home for me, he said. I have a close friend  Im still waiting for his status. Hes been a friend since middle school. His wife is on her way down here now.

Not even knowing that information is devastating and I can understand how so many families are feeling right now, he said.

The violence began early on Wednesday morning. Raj Singh, a union leader with the VTA operators union, told the Mercury News that the shooting occurred during the busiest time of day at the light rail facility, when employees are reporting to work and getting ready to start transit service.

Laurie Smith, the sheriff of Santa Clara county, said sheriffs deputies entered the building while the shots were still being fired, but did not fire upon the suspect.

Police and investigators at the scene of a shooting at the San Jose Valley Transportation Authority light rail yard. Photograph: John G Mabanglo/EPA

The active shooter rescue team ran into the building as shots were being fired. And I know that it saved many lives, Smith said. We had some heroics that I think resulted in a diminished loss of life.

Multiple news reports have identified the attacker as 57-year-old Sam Cassidy, citing law enforcement sources. Authorities said the shooter took his own life.

A spokesperson for the Santa Clara sheriffs office said bomb-sniffing dogs detected explosives at the shooting scene. The authorities are bringing in a bomb robot to scan the scene. They are searching every crevice of the building, he said.

The sheriffs department confirmed in a press conference that it was investigating whether the shooting was related to one or more fires that broke out in San Jose around the same time.

The San Jose fire department responded to a large house fire at 6.36am, and another fire in a commercial area at 6.26am. Both were reported just moments before the shooting at the rail yard, which is a few minutes drive away.

Authorities approach a home being investigated in connection to the shooting. Photograph: Noah Berger/AP

An FBI spokesman, Craig Fair, said the FBI was flying in extra assistance from the agencys resource center at Quantico, Virginia.

San Jose, the 10th-largest city in the US with more than a million people, is about 50 miles south of San Francisco in the heart of Silicon Valley.

Wednesdays attack was the countys second mass shooting in less than two years. A gunman killed three people before killing himself at a popular garlic festival in Gilroy in July 2019.

According to the San Jose Mercury News, it was the deadliest mass shooting in the Bay Area since 1993, when eight people and a gunman were killed at the 101 California Street skyscraper in San Francisco.

A fuller picture of the attacker began to emerge by Wednesday evening. Sam Cassidys ex-wife, Cecilia Nelms, told the Associated Press that Cassidy had a bad temper and would tell her that he wanted to kill people at work, but I never believed him, and it never happened. Until now.

Nelms, shaken by the news, said her ex-husband would come home wound up and angry about things that happened at work. As he talked about it, he would get more mad, she said. He could dwell on things.

When Cassidy lost his temper, Nelms said there were times she was scared. He was someone who could physically hurt others, she said.

Nelms said they were married for 10 years. Cassidy filed for divorce in 2005 and had not been in contact for 13 years. She said he had been treated for depression.

Transit authority mechanic Rochelle Hawkins said she dropped her phone when she heard shots.

I was running so fast, I just ran for my life, she said. I would hope everyone would just pray for the VTA family. Just pray for us.

The Associated Press contributed reporting
We are hearing all over America that the COVID-19 pandemic is ending. As deaths and hospitalizations are declining and restrictions loosening, this certainly seems to be true. But please dont tell that to my 85-year-old patient with cancer. I admitted him to the hospital and diagnosed him with the coronavirus on a Sunday. By Monday, he was one step away from intubation. Turns out, his daughter did not believe in getting her family vaccinated. So he hadnt received his shots.

And dont say the United States is done with COVID-19 to the mother from India, who was fully vaccinated with the Astra Zeneca shot and flew here to visit her son. I admitted her shortly after her arrival a month ago and she has now been on a ventilator for three weeks. She recently underwent a tracheostomy  a procedure in which a hole is cut in the neck to allow oxygen to be more easily delivered.

Remarkably, she tested positive for the California variant of COVID-19. This means she did not become infected in India, where the outbreak remains rampant and uncontrolled, but rather here in America  more than likely from an unvaccinated individual.

COVID has a deadly track record

For the 40,000 Americans who are hospitalized for respiratory failure from COVID-19 and the thousands more suffering through the infection at home, the pandemic remains real and thriving. This is why I, and public health officials and doctors across the country, continue to urge those still not vaccinated to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Every day, vaccines are reaching more people as eligibility and access expand. However, we are still only at around 50% of American adults being fully vaccinated. This is well short of the projected percentage needed to achieve herd immunity. This is due to both access issues, especially among minority and rural populations, as well as continued vaccine hesitancy. Some recent polls indicate that as many as 1 in 5 Americans will not accept a COVID-19 vaccination at all.

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Registered nurse Yeni Sandoval caring for a COVID patient in the ICU at Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center in Tarzana, Calif., on Jan. 3, 2021.

The daughter of my elderly patient with cancer, who almost certainly passed COVID-19 to him, told me she refused vaccination because of the newness and unknown safety of the vaccines. But by now, after hundreds of millions of vaccinations, the shots have a proven track record of safety and efficacy.

Honor code isn't safe: For people like my mom, there may never be a post-COVID era free of masks and worry

Meanwhile, after hundreds of millions of cases of COVID-19, the virus has a proven track record of deadliness. And thats not even talking about the many previously healthy, and often young, people suffering from the shortness of breath, fatigue and mental effects of long COVID.

Unvaccinated can be fatal to others

With mask restrictions lifting both indoors and outdoors, everyone is going to be more at risk of exposure to the virus. This new guidance applies to only the vaccinated, but it will be impossible to tell who has and hasnt had their shots. And while I urge you to continue to mask, I am just as urgently telling you to vaccinate.

Scientists have demonstrated reduced transmission after vaccination, and until you are fully vaccinated, you are still a vector to pass this deadly infection to the vulnerable, unvaccinated, and even rarely to the vaccinated  as shown by the uncommon breakthrough infection in my patient visiting from India.

CEO on business leadership: Why I'm requiring that my employees and customers be vaccinated against COVID-19

The vaccines are incredibly effective, but they are not 100%. No vaccine is. If we truly want to be over this pandemic, we need to halt as much transmission as possible by having a larger percentage of Americans getting the shot and achieving herd immunity.

The benefits of the vaccines unequivocally outweigh the risks of getting the virus, both for yourself and to protect others. Get the shot, just as more than 130 million other Americans have. Do not be a vaccine straggler. We are close to the end and I believe we will finish the pandemic soon, but how much death and struggle we experience in this country is up to you.

Dr. Thomas K. Lew (@ThomasLewMD ) is an assistant clinical professor of Medicine at the Stanford University School of Medicine and an attending physician of Hospital Medicine at Stanford Health Care  ValleyCare. All opinions expressed here are his own.

You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter. To respond to a column, submit a comment to letters@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: COVID vaccines: Help us end the coronavirus pandemic. Get vaccinated.
South Carolina may be giving away some perks to encourage people to get the COVID-19 vaccine, but the top House Democrat wants the state to up the ante.

House Minority Leader Todd Rutherford, D-Richland, on Thursday said the state should start a lottery program to get people excited about getting the vaccine.

Only 36.3% of South Carolinians are fully vaccinated, and 44.2% have received at least one dose of the vaccine.

It would be modeled after Ohios Vax-a-Million program, which allows state residents 18 and older to enter for a chance to win $1 million if they get at least one vaccine shot. Younger Ohioans between 12 and 17 years old can enter to win a four-year and full-ride scholarship to a public college or university. Ohio is holding five drawings for each lottery.

Rutherford wants South Carolina to dip into its federal relief pot to offer the cash prizes to adults and scholarships to teenagers.

State lawmakers tried to to that this year, when the Senate debated the South Carolina 2021-22 budget, discussing whether to add money that would award $250 college scholarships or $100 for the first 500,000 people to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Both ideas failed.

I think the message of the state of South Carolina should be clear. Get vaccinated: protect yourself, protect those around you, and you just might win a million dollars, Rutherford said in a news release.

We have to get our statewide vaccination rate much higher than it is right now. Lets get more people back to work, lets make our classrooms safer, lets truly return to normal. 

South Carolina has looked at other ways to encourage people to get the vaccine.

For instance, the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control is working with the S.C. Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism on a plan to offer COVID-19 shots at state parks in exchange for free admission.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) is forcing Republicans into a corner as he tries to pass his China-focused global competition bill.

Why it matters: It's important by itself but also seen by the left as a test for whether Democrats can work with the GOP on anything. If it fails to gain support, it would likely endanger future bipartisan efforts  including infrastructure talks  for the remainder of the 117th Congress.

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Details: Schumer strategically mapped out a plan for the bill that would box in the rival party.

The foundation of the U.S. Innovation and Competition Act is a bipartisan proposal from Schumer and Republican Sen. Todd Young of Indiana.

The legislation is expected to focus on manufacturing, technology, 5G, supply chains and semiconductors  all concerns for both parties.

In February, Schumer asked both Democratic committee chairs and their ranking Republicans to work on measures that could be included in a larger package.

Now, Republicans are saying they need to see a rigorous amendment process in order to support the measure. So far Schumer has obliged, though it's still unclear whether he'll give all of their amendments a vote.

On Tuesday, he introduced six Republican amendments and scheduled votes on several others on Wednesday.

In his messaging, Schumer has consistently emphasized he's put up more Republican amendments than Democratic ones.

Yes, but: Many Republicans still argue Schumer isn't working in good faith, and that the process hasn't been totally bipartisan.

Sen. Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) is going so far as to try to convince Republicans to reject the bill outright, complaining his negotiated bipartisan provision was blocked by Schumer.

The bottom line: Some Democratic lawmakers and their aides say that if this bill doesn't pass, the entire mood in the Senate will shift away from any semblance of accommodation.

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Alternatively, if it succeeds, it could provide momentum for future negotiations.

What they're saying: Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, told Axios he's confident the bill will pass.

"My feeling is that it's too big to fail. So much work has been put in that it would be inconceivable to me that Republicans would walk away just because the last-minute process didn't play out the way they want it."

Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) said she's less certain the bill will succeed unless certain changes are made.

"Bottom line is, it's an awful lot of money. There has to be some transparency involved with this, and we have to have clearly defined goals and objectives."

Remember: Aiming to outcompete China is an area in which Republicans and Democrats largely agree.

It's the one issue on which Schumer and President Trump saw eye to eye  making it the perfect one for Democrats to force Republicans' hand.

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Actor Danny Masterson, left, stands with his attorney, Thomas Mesereau as he is arraigned on rape charges in Los Angeles in September 2020. (Lucy Nicholson / Associated Press)

The Church of Scientology works hard to keep its inner workings out of the public eye.

It has hired private detectives to keep tabs on straying members, and experts say its lawyers vigorously defend against legal incursions, arguing to judges that Scientologys beliefs are not courtroom fodder.

But at a hearing last week in the rape case against actor Danny Masterson, church officials were unable to stop their practices from being debated in open court.

Three women took the stand to recount sexual assaults allegedly committed by the celebrity Scientologist, and each told similar stories of how church officials tried to stop them from reporting Masterson to police.

One woman testified that a church official instructed her to write a statement showing she would take responsibility for a 2001 assault, in which she alleges Masterson raped her while she was unconscious.

Another woman, who was born into Scientology and planned to report Masterson to police in 2004, a year after she said he raped her at his Hollywood mansion, recounted how a Scientology attorney showed up at her familys home. The lawyer, according to the woman, warned that she would be expelled from the church if she went to authorities.

Were going to work out how you can not lose your daughter, the attorney told the womans father, according to her testimony.

The focus on Scientology during the preliminary hearing, which stretched over four days and included lengthy discussions of internal church texts and doctrine, wasnt lost on Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Charlaine Olmedo.

In ruling that there was sufficient evidence against Masterson to allow the case to proceed toward trial, Olmedo concluded that Scientology has an expressly written doctrine that not only discourages, but prohibits its members from reporting one another to law enforcement. The policy explained why several of the women did not report Mastersons alleged crimes to the police for more than a decade, the judge found.

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It was a type of public dissection that is unusual for the insular, enigmatic institution. The church, which counts a number of high-profile actors among its parishioners and operates a Celebrity Centre in the heart of Hollywood, has long been accused of going to extraordinary lengths to keep criminal allegations and other claims of wrongdoing in-house, experts said.

The activities of Scientology have been so much a part of the evidence thats being put forth as to why these women were not immediately going to law enforcement ... that its sort of brought the dirty laundry out into public view, which is exactly what Scientology does not want to have happen, said Mike Rinder, the churchs former top spokesman, who left the faith in 2007.

In statements to The Times, the church denied it has a policy that dissuades members from reporting crimes, despite repeated references to Scientology texts during the hearing that appeared to include the directive. Karin Pouw, the churchs top spokeswoman, said Olmedos comments were flat-out wrong and dismissed the allegations against Masterson as nothing more than a money shakedown by women who are also engaged in a civil suit against him.

The women, Pouw claimed without evidence, are parroting comments made by Leah Remini, an actress who became an outspoken critic of Scientology after breaking with it in 2013. Rinder is a co-executive producer with Remini of an A&E series about Scientology.

Church policy explicitly demands Scientologists abide by all laws of the land, including the reporting of crimes. This is blatantly clear in the documents we understand were put before the Court  and many others, Pouw wrote, repeatedly noting the church is not a party in the criminal case. The Court either did not read them in full or ignored them. It should have done neither. Interpretation of Church doctrine by the courts is prohibited and the ruling is evidence of why.

The case against Masterson, who starred in the 2000s sitcom That 70s Show, is a relatively rare example of a Scientologist facing criminal charges based on accusations from other church members, Rinder said.

The churchs doctrine generally dismisses government institutions like courts as invalid and directs members to deal with complaints internally, said Rinder, who described himself as having worked closely with L. Ron Hubbard, the late science fiction author who founded the church. Knowing that contacting law enforcement can lead to excommunication and being cut off from family and friends who remain in the church, members often remain silent, according to Rinder and testimony delivered in court last week.

The case against Masterson, Rinder added, is also unusual for the outsize role the inner workings and rules of Scientology played at the preliminary hearing  a likely preview of what is to come if the case goes to trial. For the most part, Rinder said, cases involving the church have played out in civil court, where lawyers for Scientology have largely been successful in convincing judges that its practices are irrelevant.

"Scientology had managed to persuade courts  that you cant inquire into our religious practices and beliefs and have managed to dissuade much discussion about Scientology," Rinder said.

In a 2019 trial, lawyers for Scientology failed to shield the church from court scrutiny when defense attorneys for a man accused of beating his sister-in-law and her husband to death in Prescott, Ariz., argued that his belief in the religion drove him to commit the crime, according to a report in the Arizona Republic. In that case, a jury found Kenneth Wayne Thompson carried out the slayings to protect his nephew from receiving psychiatric treatment, which his attorneys argued is barred by the church's doctrines.

Jurors heard testimony about the church's origins, and how members use a polygraph-like "E-meter" during a process meant to lead to spiritual clarity. Both prosecutors and church lawyers opposed the strategy to involve Scientology in the case, but a judge allowed it. Attempts to subpoena church records and call former Scientologists to testify, including Remini, were unsuccessful, however.

Testimony at Mastersons preliminary hearing at times was as much an explanation of the churchs processes and cryptic vocabulary as an accounting of the actors alleged sexual abuse.

One woman testified that she wrote a letter to an International Justice Chief, whom she described as the churchs ultimate authority on disputes between Scientologists, seeking permission to sue Masterson and report him to police. References were made in court to knowledge reports, Things That Shouldnt Be reports, and O.W. write-ups. A prosecutor repeatedly evoked books and letters written by Hubbard.

When a woman explained during her testimony that wog-law is the churchs disdainful term for police and courts, Olmedo asked if Scientologists refer to nonmembers as wogs, much like wizards in the fictional universe of Harry Potter call non-magical people muggles.

I suppose, the woman responded. Its not a nice thing.

The three women who have accused Masterson of rape were identified in court by their first names and initials of their last names. The Times generally does not name victims of alleged sexual assault unless they choose to fully identify themselves.

Mastersons attorney, Thomas Mesereau, initially tried to minimize Scientologys place in the case, asking Olmedo to issue an order limiting mentions of the church or its practices in court. He argued the restrictions were needed because of religious bias that investigators from the Los Angeles Police Department and Mastersons accusers harbored against Scientology.

Olmedo slapped down the request, saying she found it interesting that Mesereau argued Scientology should have little to do with the case, but also referred to the church 88 times in a 29-page brief.

As the hearing wore on, Mesereau appeared to change tactics, introducing church documents as evidence in an attempt to undercut the credibility of Mastersons accusers.

While cross-examining one woman, he read from an O.W. write-up and suggested the church document amounted to an admission by the woman that her encounter with Masterson had been consensual and driven by her promiscuity. She fired back that the document had been written by church officials, who took comments shed made to a Scientology counselor out of context and repurposed them to defend Masterson.

Mesereau also brought out a copy of Introduction to Scientology Ethics, a 528-page tome written by Hubbard, as he cross-examined another alleged victim.

When it was his turn to question the woman, Deputy Dist. Atty. Reinhold Mueller took the book from Mesereau and had it admitted into the court record. He and the woman read aloud passages that she said she understood were official church doctrine that discourages Scientologists from reporting fellow parishioners to law enforcement.

As he finished his questioning, Mueller handed the book back to Mesereau and thanked him, saying it was very helpful.

One of the women who testified at the hearing said that when she reported the alleged rape to church officials, she was told to read the chapter of "Introduction to Scientology Ethics" that instructs members not to go to police in such cases. In a one-on-one meeting, a church "ethics officer" told her "not to use the R-word'" and said it would be a high crime to report another Scientologist to law enforcement, the woman testified.

She also said she was required to complete an "ethics course" because she had done "something to ... deserve what [Masterson] did to me.

Rinder said that in recent years, the church's responses to media inquiries had become "hermit-like." The fact that the church issued a detailed defense of its practices to The Times is a sign the Masterson case has become a significant problem for the church, he said.

The fact that it's Danny Masterson from 'That '70s Show'  its not just local media reporting on a local case, it blows it up way bigger. It becomes part of Bill Cosby and Harvey Weinstein," he said, referring to the #MeToo movement, which has identified several celebrities as sexual predators. "That instantly puts it into a different zone. Within Scientology, this becomes panic stations, high alert.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Sen. Ron Johnson (R-WI) speaks to reporters and tells them why he is against a January 6 commission on his way to a vote at the U.S. Capitol May 27, 2021 in Washington, DC. The mother of late Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick is on Capitol Hill today meeting with Republican lawmakers to urge them to support the January 6 commission legislation. Drew Angerer/Getty Images

Sen. Ron Johnson turned down Gladys Sicknick's plea to establish a commission to investigate the Capitol insurrection.

Johnson said he "respectfully disagreed on the added value of the proposed commission."

Johnson has previously attempted to downplay the severity of January 6 riot.

See more stories on Insider's business page.

GOP Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin on Thursday said he still opposed the creation of a bipartisan commission to investigate the Capitol insurrection after meeting with the mother of fallen Capitol Police officer Brian Sicknick.

Gladys Sicknick visited Capitol Hill with Sicknick's longtime partner Sandra Garza, hoping to convince lawmakers to support a January 6 commission. Her son suffered a stroke and died one day after facing rioters at the Captiol.

"This is why I'm here today," Gladys Sicknick told CNN on Thursday as the Senate prepares to consider legislation that would establish the commission. "I just couldn't stay quiet anymore."

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Johnson said in a statement that he offered his condolences and was "happy" to meet with Sicknick's family along with Michael Fanone and Harry Dunn, two police officers who were injured while defending the Capitol.

But the Republican senator said he "respectfully disagreed on the added value of the proposed commission."

"I did commit to doing everything I could to ensure all their questions will be answered," Johnson added.

Johnson has repeatedly attempted to downplay the severity of the January 6 riot and previously said he "never felt threatened" by the violence that forced Congress to shelter-in-place and left five people dead.

Last week, Johnson described the insurrection as "by and large a peaceful protest." The Wisconsin Republican also voted to acquit former President Donald Trump in his second impeachment trial on a charge of "incitement of insurrection."

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On Thursday, Johnson said he condemned "the grotesque violence, repugnant racial slurs, and other illegal acts that occurred on Jan. 6" and that "all those who engaged in those repulsive acts should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law."

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Johnson and most other congressional Republicans have opposed a bill to create a bipartisan body to investigate the insurrection, arguing its too narrow in scope and could serve as a distraction from the 2022 midterm elections. The House last week approved the legislation in a 252-175 vote, with 35 Republicans in favor of it.

Only a few Republican senators, including Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Mitt Romney of Utah, and Susan Collins of Maine - lawmakers who voted to convict Trump in his impeachment trial - have signaled a willingness to support the bill.

Read the original article on Business Insider
President Joe Biden meeting with Sen. Shelley Moore Capito at the White House. NICHOLAS KAMM/AFP via Getty Images

A group of Senate Republicans introduced a $928 billion infrastructure counteroffer to Biden.

But only a quarter of it appears to be new spending beyond what Congress has already authorized.

It's unlikely to satisfy Democrats and the White House. A top progressive said it had a "loser-y" idea.

See more stories on Insider's business page.

Senate Republicans on Thursday made a $928 billion infrastructure counteroffer to the White House that would only modestly increase new federal spending compared with what the Biden administration is seeking.

GOP Sen. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia has spearheaded the working group, which includes Republicans Sens. John Barrasso of Wyoming, Roy Blunt of Missouri, and Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania.

"Senate Republicans continue to negotiate in good faith," Capito said at a news conference. "We're trying to reach that common goal of a bipartisan infrastructure plan."

The new plan includes the following provisions, largely concentrated on physical infrastructure:

$506 billion for roads and bridges

$98 billion for public transit systems

$72 billion for water systems

$65 billion for broadband

$56 billion for airports

$46 billion for passenger and freight rail

$22 billion for ports and waterways

It also includes federal money for water storage and safety.

But the offer is unlikely to satisfy the Biden administration and congressional Democrats because only about a quarter of it - $257 billion - is new government spending beyond what Congress has already authorized. The GOP's past proposal to the administration featured $225 billion in new spending, the White House said.

Capito and her GOP group envision repurposing stimulus money from the $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief law to finance infrastructure upgrades. The White House has panned that possibility in recent days.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, a key progressive, strongly criticized the GOP plan in an MSNBC interview, saying it had a "loser-y" idea to redirect federal money already devoted to other sectors of the economy.

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Democrats are pressing to merge into their economic plans what they view as human infrastructure, including new domestic initiatives in healthcare and education and an expansion of the safety net.

Both sides have clashed on the size and scope of an infrastructure plan, and the latest GOP offer is unlikely to resolve their differences. They still sharply disagree on how to finance it; Democrats want to roll back the 2017 tax law and raise corporate taxes, a red line for the GOP.

The White House put $1.7 trillion in new spending on the table during the negotiations, now in their third week. The offer was a $500 billion reduction from the $2.3 trillion package introduced last month, though some of that funding was moved to other bills in Congress.

That proposal includes new money for roads and bridges, broadband, domestic manufacturing, and in-home elder care, among a slew of other initiatives.

Read the original article on Business Insider
By Donny Kwok and Scott Murdoch

HONG KONG (Reuters) -Shares in jailed tycoon Jimmy Lai's Next Digital Ltd soared on Thursday, the first day of trading after a suspension of longer than a week following a freeze in the pro-democracy activist's assets under the national security law.

In a late Wednesday statement, the media publisher said it had enough working capital for at least 18 months from April 1 without additional funding from Lai, its controlling shareholder.

Shares opened 141.9% higher at HK$0.45, the highest since December 2020, when Lai was charged under the security law imposed by China earlier that year. They then extended gains to HK$0.80, the highest since August 2020, when Lai was first arrested and national security police raided the newsroom of his Apple Daily newspaper.

The stock can be highly volatile as trade is dominated by retail investors, and its spikes are often a result of buyers' showing support for Lai and his pro-democracy publications.

"There are a lot of investors who are willing to speculate in this stock, its crazy," said Wealthy Securities managing director Louis Tse. "I dont think the moves are based on any kind of financial fundaments for the stock."

Hong Kong's National Security Department had notified Next Digital's chief executive, Cheung Kim Hung, that Lai was prohibited from dealing in assets, including shares in the listed company and bank accounts of three firms directly or indirectly wholly owned by Lai, the publisher said in a statement late on Wednesday.

"The board does not expect the issue of the notice to have an immediate negative effect on the financial situation or operations of the group," Cheung said in the statement.

Next Digital's shares were suspended on May 17.

Apple Daily, a pro-democracy tabloid published by Next Digital, said at the time the group had sufficient working capital for nine to 10 months.

On Wednesday, Next Digital said its unaudited bank and cash balances amounted to HK$521.4 million ($67.17 million) as of March 31. It added that it expected cost savings in the longer run as a result of a recent decision to stop publishing Taiwan Apple Daily in print.

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Next Digital, in which Lai owns a 71.26% stake, also said it did not expect the notice from national security authorities to affect the trading volume of the shares in the company.

Lai, a staunch Beijing critic seen as a traitor in China, was sentenced to 14 months in prison for taking part in unauthorised assemblies during anti-government protests in Hong Kong in 2019, and is among the most high-profile arrests made under the security law. He faces three more charges, including collusion with a foreign country.

Lai is due in court on Friday, where he will hear a sentence for another unauthorised assembly, on Oct. 1, 2019 - China's national day. He had pleaded guilty.

($1 = 7.7629 Hong Kong dollars)

(Reporting by Donny Kwok; Writing by Marius Zaharia; Editing by Gerry Doyle)
Southwest Airlines has permanently banned the 28-year-old passenger accused of striking a flight attendant on a Sacramento, California, to San Diego flight Sunday. The flight attendant's union said she lost two teeth.

Sonya Lacore, Southwest's vice president of in-flight operations, announced the ban in a memo to flight attendants about the now-viral incident.

"As weve communicated previously, we do have a process to permanently restrict passengers from traveling on Southwest, and please know that the passenger involved in the most recent incident has been advised that she may no longer fly on Southwest Airlines,'' Lacore said in the Wednesday memo, a copy of which was obtained by USA TODAY.

The Port of San Diego Harbor Police Department earlier this week identified the passenger as Vyvianna Quinonez and said she was charged with battery causing serious bodily injury, a felony.

"According to witnesses, an altercation between a passenger and a flight attendant had taken place during the flight,'' the police department said in a statement. ''During the altercation, the passenger struck the flight attendant, causing serious injuries.''

 Unruly airline passengers: What is the role of the captain and flight crew in taming bad behavior?

One San Diego passenger has since come forward with graphic video of the altercation and said the flight attendant shares the blame for the incident, according to TV reports.

Southwest's flight attendants union, Transport Workers Union Local 556, was the first to disclose the incident, in a letter to Southwest CEO Gary Kelly Monday, which was first reported by USA TODAY.

"This past weekend, one of our flight attendants was seriously assaulted, resulting in injuries to the face and a loss of two teeth,'' Lyn Montgomery, president of TWU Local 556 said in the letter. "Unfortunately, this is just one of many occurrences. I write to you today because we cannot tolerate our beloved cohearts (Southwest's word for co-workers) being abused in such a manner, and because I am asking for your help and leadership in ending these travesties.''

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Lacore said in the memo she has been "deeply troubled'' by the incident.

"Please dont mistake my lack of communication for my lack of work behind the scenes to ensure first and foremost, our flight attendant received immediate aid and ongoing care. I have been in contact with her, and we will continue to provide her the support she needs,'' she said.

"I have also been gathering the necessary information to ensure this incident was appropriately reported  a step that must be taken before I can share accurate information with you all, and its important to me that you have the facts. I hope by now that you understand where my focus has been since this occurred and that my heart has been deeply troubled.''

In the letter to Kelly, the flight attendants union appealed for support from the company in the wake of an increasing number of unruly passengers, some of whom get physical with crew members.

Airlines and the Federal Aviation Administration have reported a big spike in incidents, many of them tied to mask compliance. The FAA has adopted a zero-tolerance policy, and ahead of the summer travel season, officials this week reiterated that passengers behaving badly will suffer stiff consequences.

"We're addressing it quite forcefully,'' Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayokas said at a news conference Tuesday. "We're not going to tolerate behavior that threatens the well-being of the public (or) of the employees that bravely are on the front lines to facilitate the travel for individuals who want to reunite with family and friends.''

 Mask fights and BYOB breaches: FAA proposes $64,500 in fines against 5 passengers

Despite relaxed mask guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention earlier this month, masks remain a must on planes and at airports following the recent extension of the federal mask mandate for public transportation.

Lacore said in the memo that the airline is "providing information'' to the CDC and the TSA regarding "the impact the mask mandate has both on our employees and our customers.'' And she urged the union to do the same, suggesting there may be a behind-the-scenes push by airlines to lift the mandate.

In the meantime, she said Southwest is looking at interim relief measures, including changes in its in-flight announcements to passengers about the strict mask policy. She said the airline is "working quickly'' to make adjustments and could have something before Memorial Day travel rush begins.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Southwest Airlines flight attendant 'assault': Airline bans passenger
Starbucks workers told The Guardian that customers ordering TikTok-inspired drinks were wearing them out. Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images

Starbucks workers told The Guardian that customers were ordering increasingly complicated drinks.

Inspired by TikTok trends, these drinks take longer to make and slow down drive-thrus.

One worker said customers would get "very mad" when drinks aren't made perfectly.

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Josie Morales, a Starbucks barista in Los Angeles, was fired earlier this month after tweeting a picture of a complicated drink order with 13 modifications. He captioned the image "On today's episode of why I want to quit my job."

He's not the only one feeling the strain. Starbucks staffers are being worn out by increasingly demanding customers who order complicated drinks that slow down drive-thrus, The Guardian reported on Wednesday.

Some staff members blamed the complex orders on viral TikTok videos sharing "secret menu" drinks.

"These orders are driving us insane because they're so long, so specific, and it requires you to do much more work than you should be doing for one single drink," a Starbucks shift supervisor in New York told The Guardian.

Read more: These 6 restaurant chains' growth skyrocketed during the pandemic, and now they're courting new franchisees. Here's what it takes to open and run an El Pollo Loco, a Jack in the Box, a Noodles and Company, and others.

The Guardian's report echoed reporting from Insider's Mary Meisenzahl earlier in May. "Custom drinks from social media like TikTok are also increasing the need for labor," a supervisor in Pennsylvania told Meisenzahl. "These drinks are getting more and more complicated while the company is pushing for drive-thru times under 40-50 seconds."

In the second quarter, the number of Starbucks transactions fell, but larger and more complicated orders that cost more drove an increase in same-store sales.

Starbucks doesn't limit the modifications a customer can make to a drink for mobile and delivery orders. A barista in Maryland told The Guardian that it could be difficult to understand exactly what customers want.

Story continues

"People will get very mad over sort of little stuff when you've made the drink almost perfectly, and it's frustrating to feel like you can't say we can't really make it that way, so people treat us like coffee-making robots," the barista said.

Erika, a Starbucks shift supervisor in Ohio, told Meisenzahl that the chain had strict limits on wait times in the drive-thru and that customers expected Starbucks to act as a quick-service restaurant. She said that simplifying Starbucks' menu and restricting modifications would improve its speed.

Do you work at Starbucks? Got a story to share? Email this reporter at gdean@insider.com. Always use a nonwork email.

Read the original article on Business Insider
St. Johns County Sheriff's Office

The Florida teenager accused of murdering 13-year-old Tristyn Bailey earlier this month stabbed the cheerleader a staggering 114 times as she fought for her life, then dumped her body in a wooded area, authorities said Thursday.

Aiden Fucci, 14, will now be charged as an adult with first-degree murder for Baileys brutal slaying in the early morning of May 9, St. Johns County State Attorney R.J. Larizza announced Thursday.

Youve heard our victim was stabbed....to say it was horrific was an understatement, Larizza said during a Thursday press conference. There were 114 stab wounds.

The young girl died fighting for her life, he added.

Fucci may have randomly chosen Bailey as his victim, as he told other teenagers he planned to kill someone within the month, the prosecutor said. This could simply be a wrong place at the wrong time situation, Larizza said.

The St. Johns County Sheriffs Office says Baileys family reported her missing at 10 a.m on May 10, prompting a frantic countywide search that ended eight hours later when investigators recovered the seventh graders clothed body in a wooded area near a retention pond on a street close to where she was last seen.

Larizza said that the night of the murder, Fucci told people he intended to kill someone by taking them in the woods and stabbing them.

Cheerleader Tristyn Bailey Was Stabbed to Death by Teenage Boy, Cops Say

The Daily Beast did not initially identify Fucci, who was originally charged with second-degree murder, because prosecutors had not decided whether to charge him as an adult. Online court records show a Thursday notice to transfer Fuccis case to adult court and assign it to Judge R. Lee Smith after he was indicted by a grand jury.

The news of his upgraded charges was first reported by ActionNewJax.

According to an arrest report, Baileys family last saw the Patriot Oaks Academy cheerleader at around midnight on May 9. An hour later, home surveillance footage near the Durbin North Amenity Center showed Bailey and Fucci walking together, at one point heading east on Saddlestone Drive.

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Larizza said that while investigators have not determined a motive, he confirmed Baileys encounter with Fucci started out as kids hanging out. He added that theres no evidence anyone else was involved in the grisly crime.

At around 3:30 a.m, another video shows Fucci walking alone on Saddlestone Drive and carrying a pair of white shoes with a black Nike logo, the report states.

During the frantic search for Bailey the next morning, police brought in Fucci for questioning as a witness. The St. Johns County Sheriffs Office confirmed to The Daily Beast that around the same time, Fucci posted a selfie on social media in a patrol car with the caption, Hey guys has anybody seen Tristyn lately?

Under questioning, the arrest report states Fucci changed his story several times and made several admissions that led cops to charge him.

Police later found clothing in the boys bedroom that tested positive for blood, the arrest report said. After finding Baileys body, police discovered she had been left only 0.3 miles from where Fucci lived.

Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Predrag Bulic later concluded that Baileys homicide was caused by a sharp force trauma by stabbing.

Larizza said Thursday that about 49 of the defensive stab wounds Bailey suffered were to the hands, arms, and face. He added that witnesses identified a knife that was found in a pond as belonging to Fucci. The knifes tip had broken off and was later found in Baileys skull. The medical examiner said the blood on the weapon matched the victim's.

Teenagers are capable of things we never imagined them doing, Larizza added, warning parents in his community to keep tabs on their children.

Both Tristyn and Fucci attended Patriot Oaks Academy in St. Johns, though police said it was unclear how they knew each other or if they were in the same class.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Two officers in the US state of Washington were charged with the murder of a Black man who died in police custody as he pleaded that he couldn't breathe, and a third was charged with manslaughter, prosecutors said Thursday.

Manuel Ellis died in Tacoma in March 2020, in a case that became a touchstone for protests in the Pacific Northwest, and which bears similarities to the killing of George Floyd by Minnesota police that sparked nationwide outrage two months later.

Ellis died after "felonious assault and/or unlawful imprisonment" by two of the officers, while a third "continued to hold Ellis in the prone position and to apply pressure onto his back" despite hearing Ellis say he could not breathe, a prosecutor statement says.

Washington Governor Jay Inslee ordered a new, state-led investigation into the death last June -- at the height of countrywide protests over Floyd's killing -- after surveillance footage and witnesses contradicted the officers' account of the incident.

By that stage the county's medical examiner had ruled the death a homicide caused by hypoxia -- a lack of oxygen -- due to physical restraint. The same examiner later found that methamphetamine in Ellis' blood was unlikely to have contributed to his death.

"This is the first step in our system of justice," said Inslee in a statement Thursday.

"We must remain proactive -- from those of us in elected office to those providing services in our communities - to turn the tide of injustice," he added.

Ellis, 33, had gone out for a late-night snack on the night of March 3, 2020, and was returning home with a bag of donuts when he approached a patrol car containing officers Christopher Burbank and Matthew Collins.

Burbank and Collins would later claim Ellis randomly attacked them after they spotted him trying to open the door of another car at an intersection.

But three civilian witnesses and video footage from their cellphones and a doorbell camera nearby contradict these claims and offer no evidence of Ellis being the aggressor, according to the state investigation.

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Burbank and Collins -- who Tasered Ellis and placed him in a chokehold -- were charged with second-degree murder, while another officer who arrived later to the scene and knelt on Ellis's back until paramedics arrived was charged with first-degree manslaughter.

If convicted, the maximum sentence in all three cases is life in prison. Warrants have been issued for their arrests.

Ellis' death has sparked protests in Tacoma, about 35 miles south of Seattle, and led to Washington state banning the use of chokeholds.

Unlawful killing charges against police have been extremely rare in Washington state and across much of the US.

Minnesota police officer Derek Chauvin was convicted of murder and manslaughter in April for Floyd's death.

Since that verdict, two police officers have since been indicted for murder and a third convicted by an Alabama jury for shooting a suicidal man.

amz/st
Lisa Taddeo in Topanga Canyon, a key location in her forthcoming first novel, "Animal." (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times)

There are so many things Lisa Taddeo wants to teach her daughter before she dies.

For most of her pregnancy, she thought she wouldn't get that chance. When Fox, now 6, was inside her belly, doctors told Taddeo that she was unlikely to survive long past her due date. A scan had revealed something ominous-looking on her pancreas.

Miraculously, Taddeo ended up being fine. Still, who knew how long shed have with Fox? After all, shed lost her parents suddenly: her father in a car accident when she was 23, her mother five years later to lung cancer.

Everything I do, Taddeo says, is so that if I leave my daughter too early  the way my parents did  Ill leave her with enough. ... In a sense, every book is what Ive learned  like, heres what you should know about life that I wont have been able to teach you.

What she has to teach is not reassuring, but it is true, even when it's fiction. In her new book, Animal  her first published novel  the narrator is also telling her daughter a story. Joan has uprooted her life in New York City after witnessing the brutal suicide of her married lover. Desperate for a new beginning, she drives across the country and settles in a sort-of commune in the hills of Topanga, where she and a few other lost souls rent shacks and yurts alongside the coyotes.

Taddeo lived in Topanga for seven months while she was writing Three Women, the 2019 nonfiction debut that made her famous. Exploring female sexuality through the lives of a high school student, a suburban mother and a middle-aged swinger, "Three Women" debuted at No. 1 on the New York Times bestseller list, establishing her as a preeminent immersive journalist.

Taddeo had spent the better part of a decade working on it  embedding with women in Manhattan Beach, Indiana and Marthas Vineyard before settling on her primary subjects  and assuming no one would read it. The advance shed earned from Avid Reader Press, albeit decent," lasted only so long, and at one point her husband, Jackson Waite, took a job snapping family portraits in the photo department at an Indiana Kmart. She couldnt have made ends meet, she says now, without the money from the sale of her parents house.

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She had also never thought of herself as a nonfiction writer. After graduating college, she sold a novel to a small imprint at age 23 but was so dissatisfied with the final product that she withdrew it from publication. In 2018, while finishing Three Women, she enrolled in Boston Universitys MFA fiction program in the hopes that everybody would take me more seriously. Her thesis was Animal, which she submitted to Avid along with her final "Three Women" draft.

(Avid Reader Press)

At 41, Taddeo says "Animal" finally shows the world who she really is as a writer. A propulsive literary thriller whose taut, knowing sentences ground the reader amid chaos, comes out June 8. Reviews have yet to hit, but a groundswell of support from high-profile figures is already building. Emma Roberts book club, Belletrist, selected it as a pick, and the actress recently voiced the audiobook version. Gillian Flynn, Chelsea Handler and Jojo Moyes have been early supporters, and "Sweetbitter" author Stephanie Danler has declared it even better than "Three Women."

I didnt know what to expect from Animal, but reading it, I had no peace, no rest  just a lump in my throat," Danler says. "I was scared my kids were unsafe, that California was unsafe  it just stripped down all of the security in my life and poked holes in it. I think what Lisa does so well is that she makes you feel like youre trespassing on the innermost vulnerabilities, fears and aspirations of women. It feels too close to home, in a lot of ways. ... It feels like shes leapt off this cliff. How is she going to stick the landing?

Off the page, Taddeo says she's found it difficult to navigate her newfound success. She was in L.A. when a publicist from Avid called to tell her Three Women was No. 1. Two days later, the rights to the book were optioned.

All she remembers is the panic she felt at the prospect that it would force her out into the world more. She lives with her family in a rural part of Litchfield County, Conn., and fantasizes about writing short stories in the Cotswolds and teaching at the University of Bath. Which could be mistaken for the prototypical writerly dream if the anxiety weren't so palpably seeping out of Taddeo's pores.

I have not enjoyed anything. Literally, she says, reflecting on her post-Three Women popularity and laughing to leaven the sentiment. I mean, I am happy. I love my husband and my daughter. Ill have moments of, like, Oh, cool! I did this, or The book is done! But then immediately I feel like the end of the world is nigh.

Taddeo doesn't think writing about her fears will exorcise them. She's simply choosing, she says, to write about the thing she can't stop thinking about. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times)

Taddeo is sitting out back at the Reel Inn, a seafood restaurant on the side of Pacific Coast Highway that features in "Animal." In the book, Joan describes its patio with heat lamps and pebbles on the ground and picnic tables and petunias in galvanized Corona buckets. Thats exactly where the author is now, eating a shrimp Caesar salad that has been delivered without any shrimp, though she doesn't correct the error.

She decided to set Animal in Topanga because it felt like the most gothic place shed ever been. It was so hot, and shed always pass people walking their dogs with pet crows on their shoulders. She liked the idea of living in some dreamy spot above the clouds, but in reality the place just made her feel unmoored.

She was in town for only a few days this month but ended up spending most of her time working on scripts for a Showtime television version of Three Women, which she hopes will start shooting this fall. In the show, Taddeo will feature more prominently  a fourth woman, essentially. She says screenwriting hasnt come naturally to her: I can write 3,000 words of prose in, like, 20 minutes. Because Im crazy, not because Im talented. But an hour script will sometimes take me a week or two.

Thats not exactly the way Laura Eason, the Three Women showrunner, sees it.

I have to say, Im a little bit mad at her. Its like, could you actually be a little less good at this? Eason says. Shes an incredibly lauded writer but hadnt done a ton of screenwriting. I have more experience than her, but she wrote the book. The potential for this to be a disaster was high, but weve ended up in this profoundly deep collaboration.

After Animal is released, Taddeo is set to publish a collection of short stories. And a few weeks ago, she sold her fourth book, a reported memoir on grief.

She doesn't think writing about her fears will exorcise them, immediately rejecting the notion of writing as catharsis. She's simply choosing, she says, to write about the thing she can't stop thinking about. Yet a part of her also believes her ability to stare into the face of darkness was essential to getting her "Three Women" subjects to talk.

"I was in a black hole of pain, and it's just easier for people to relate to that," she says. "There's people who don't want to hear about dark stuff  it ruins their day. But I have always felt like we all walk around with so much pain, and it sucks to not be able to talk about it."

Taddeo considers "Animal" a "compendium of all of the pain bodies" she came into contact with in the course of working on "Three Women." But it's also, in a way, the story of her own struggle  of a woman whose chaotic life has left her "stripped of her niceties."

"When my parents died, it utterly reconstructed me as a human being," she says. "It turned me into an animal, in a sense. And not an animal that kills, but a scared, skittering mouse that is constantly driving from one place to another to try to hide from her brain.

"When my parents died, it utterly reconstructed me as a human being," she says. "It turned me into an animal, in a sense." (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times)

Taddeo has tried to reckon with her anxiety in myriad ways. Her biggest struggle is with hypochondria, which manifested after her mothers death. One psychiatrist told her she had the worst case of obsessive-compulsive disorder hed ever encountered. Shes tried talk therapy plenty of times but doesnt really feel that it works. For a while, she was on lamotrigine  an anticonvulsant meant to stop her spiraling thoughts. But it fatigued her, which made her think she had cancer. So she switched to Prozac, which she currently supplements with Xanax and marijuana.

That sort of mania is also what helps me write, she acknowledges. My brain doesnt stop moving, so work is the only thing that helps to get it out.

What she worries about most is Fox. While packing for a recent vacation, Taddeo noticed a black mark on Foxs nose. When it didnt rub off, she started spiraling: Was it cancer? A tick? She pulled out a pair of tweezers and began trying to remove the spot.

And it ended up being a f Sharpie. One of my Sharpies, and I made my daughters nose bleed to try to take something out, she says.

She has dozens of stories like this. There was another cancer scare  a bruise on Fox's stomach that the pediatrician relieved with some rubbing alcohol. On another occasion, Fox was throwing a tantrum in the back seat of the car and threw popcorn into Taddeo's eyes. She angrily pulled over.

I turn around and Im like, Do you know how my father died? He got into a car accident! ... And then its over and Im like, Oh my God, what are you doing? You cant do that.' And I freak out.

Shell also frequently faux kidnap Fox, running up from behind her and scooping her up if shes too far ahead, to show her how easily she could be taken by a stranger.

Growing up, Taddeo wasnt certain she wanted to have children. Her own mother, who emigrated from Italy to New Jersey, often told her she wouldnt be a good mom.

But then she met Waite and he wanted to try for a kid. It was a spur of the moment decision, Taddeo says. The couple were living in a RV at the time because Taddeo was reporting Three Women. One night, after she had been pregnant for two months, she started to bleed. It lasted for 24 hours and she miscarried. She never went to the hospital; she was too scared to go and find out she might be dying.

Getting pregnant had made her feel she "finally had something to live for at long last," she says. "[Before], I felt like I was in so much pain and so sad all the time that if something happened, whatever.

She paused, trying to steer the conversation to a lighter place.

I mean, listen: I like hanging out. I like going to dinner. I like seeing people, she insists. But the moment she starts "feeling love overflowing," she cuts off the emotion, shifting subconsciously into the anxious part of her brain that equates happiness with risk.

She's trying to be more present. Like a few weeks ago, when Fox asked her to have a pillow fight. Taddeo agreed but had never had one before, so she took to Google: How do you have a pillow fight? Later that day, while watching television, she realized the idea had sprung from a TV commercial in which a mother and daughter were mid-pillow toss, laughing heartily.

It was so heartbreaking. she says. Instead of being present and having pillow fights, Im like, Here. Im gonna write all of this s. Just so that you have it.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
DUBAI (Reuters) - The chief negotiator for Yemen's Houthi movement said on Thursday he had met UN special envoy Martin Griffiths, after Washington criticised the group for rebuffing the diplomat on a previous visit to the region.

Griffiths' latest trip coincides with that of U.S. envoy Tim Lenderking, who held talks on Wednesday in Saudi Arabia, which is leading a military coalition that has been battling the Iran-aligned Houthi group for more than six years.

Houthi negotiator Mohammed Abdulsalam, who is based in Oman, said on Twitter he and Griffiths had discussed the need to speed up "the humanitarian agreement" by lifting an air and sea blockade, which would "pave the way for wider talks on a permanent ceasefire and a comprehensive political settlement".

Griffiths is leading an international effort to secure an end to the fighting in Yemen, which has caused what the United Nations considers the world's biggest humanitarian crisis, pushing millions of people to the edge of famine.

The Houthis' main demand has been the lifting of blockades at the country's main port and the capital's airport, which are both under Houthi control but restricted by the coalition. The Saudis have said reopening air and sea links would have to be accompanied by a ceasefire deal that the Houthis have not accepted.

Last week, Lenderking criticised the Houthis for not engaging seriously in stalled efforts to secure a ceasefire. He also urged the coalition to remove restrictions on all Yemeni ports and airports.

The Houthis, who have controlled most of northern Yemen since 2014, are pressing an offensive to seize Yemen's gas-rich Marib region and have kept up cross-border attacks on Saudi Arabia.

The Saudi-led coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015 after the Houthis ousted a Saudi-backed government from the capital Sanaa. The Houthis say they are fighting a corrupt system and foreign aggression.

(Reporting by Mohammed Ghobari in Aden and Ghaida Ghantous in Dubai)
Two days after hedge fund Alden Global Capital completed its $633 million acquisition of Tribune Publishing, the new owners of the Chicago-based newspaper chain are offering newsroom employees a buyout.

The voluntary separation plan was sent Wednesday to nonunion newsroom employees at the Chicago Tribune and other Tribune Publishing newspapers. The offer includes 12 weeks of pay for eligible employees with three or more years of continuous service, plus an additional week of pay for every year with the company. Eligible employees with less than three years of service would receive eight weeks of pay under the plan.

Tribune Publishing is required to negotiate any buyout offers for union newsroom employees directly with the local guilds that represent them, according to Jon Schleuss, president of the NewsGuild-Communication Workers of America, whose local chapters represent the Chicago Tribune and other Tribune Publishing newsrooms.

Gregory Pratt, a Tribune reporter and president of the Chicago Tribune Guild, said the company has contacted the union to discuss a voluntary separation plan, but canceled scheduled bargaining sessions this week.

An Alden spokesman declined to comment Wednesday.

Alden completed its purchase of Tribune Publishing late Monday, taking the Chicago-based newspaper chain private after the $17.25-per-share buyout was approved Friday by shareholders. The hedge fund immediately saddled the formerly debt-free Tribune Publishing with two loans totaling $278 million, removed CEO Terry Jimenez and installed Alden President Heath Freeman to lead the company.

A New York-based hedge fund with a reputation as one of the industrys most aggressive cost-cutters, Alden becomes the second-largest newspaper owner in the U.S. behind Gannett. Alden also owns MediaNews Group, whose larger newspapers include the Denver Post, San Jose (California) Mercury News and the St. Paul (Minnesota) Pioneer Press.

In addition to the Chicago Tribune, Tribune Publishing owns The Baltimore Sun; the Hartford Courant; the Orlando (Florida) Sentinel; the South Florida Sun Sentinel; the New York Daily News; the Capital Gazette in Annapolis, Maryland; The Morning Call in Allentown, Pennsylvania; the Daily Press in Newport News, Virginia; and The Virginian-Pilot in Norfolk, Virginia.

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The newspaper industry has struggled during the digital age, with the number of newsroom employees falling by more than half  from 71,000 to 35,000  between 2008 and 2019, according to Pew Research. At the same time, newspaper revenue has been cut in half because of a precipitous decline in print advertising.

Last year, Tribune Publishing employment fell by 30%, dropping from 4,114 employees at the end of 2019 to 2,865 employees at the end of 2020, according to the companys annual reports. The company had a total of 896 newsroom employees across its eight markets entering this year.

In January 2020, two months after Alden took a 32% stake in Tribune Publishing, becoming its largest shareholder, the newspaper chain implemented a buyout program to reduce employee head count and expenses.
By Stephen Nellis, David Shepardson and Michael Martina

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A series of amendments for a $190 billion U.S. Senate bill aimed at countering China's technology challenge are in limbo after business groups protested proposals intended to ensure that none of the money finds its way to China or other U.S. rivals.

New regulations or reviews of investments or deals in China could disrupt U.S. businesses' future operations in that country, which include semiconductors and medical equipment. The bilateral trade deficit has run more than $100 billion a year since 2002.

Senators from both sides of the aisle want "guardrails," such as mandatory security disclosures and interagency reviews to stop U.S. businesses from compromising national security by outsourcing critical technologies to China.

The Senate bill authorizes $120 billion for high-tech research and another $54 billion to subsidize U.S. semiconductor production. For chip factories, it makes no distinction between foreign recipients and U.S.-based firms in determining who gets funds for U.S. facilities.

A key goal of the funding is to bring the world's most advanced chip plants to the United States, and only Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co and Korea's Samsung Electronics Co Ltd have the technology to do that.

Florida Republican Senator Marco Rubio has proposed an amendment requiring U.S. national security officials to screen recipients and require disclosure of funding or support from foreign entities, including the Chinese government or Chinese state-owned enterprises.

TSMC and Samsung both have operations in China.

Another amendment from Democratic Senator Bob Casey and Republican Senator John Cornyn would require an interagency review of any U.S. investments in China or a shortlist of adversarial countries. That would mark a huge change for U.S. law, which for decades has had provisions for screening inbound investments, but not for outbound.

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"If a company wants to offshore semiconductors to China, we need to know about it," Casey said from the Senate floor on Wednesday. "Yet, business interests, like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the U.S.-China Business Council, are organizing against this commonsense proposal."

Casey took to task Republicans opposing the measure, saying they talk tough on China, but they "cut and run" when it comes to taking on big business.

John Murphy, the U.S. Chamber's senior vice president for international policy, said existing laws, such as the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 (ECRA), could address the China investment issue, and that the proposal needed more discussion in the Senate before being added to such a sweeping package.

"Congress and the administration should focus on using the legal tools on which the paint is barely dry," he said, referring to ECRA.

One Senate aide cited fierce opposition to the Casey-Cornyn amendment from businesses and some Republicans, including Senator Mike Crapo, the ranking member on the Senate Finance Committee, adding: "We're not confident that it's going to come to a vote."

Crapo declined to comment.

FUNDAMENTAL FLAW?

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has sought to get the U.S. Innovation and Competition Act passed this week, but Republicans insist the bill is not ready.

"There is an increasing consensus that the lack of guardrails is the fundamental flaw of the bill," a Republican House aide said of the Senate package.

The House of Representatives is planning its own version of a China bill and could add other provisions on chips funding as well.

Rubio's office said it was still working on getting his amendment incorporated. When he proposed his amendment for counterintelligence screening last week, he noted the much needed investments would "mean nothing if they are stolen by foreign adversaries, including the Chinese Communist Party."

Any restrictions on subsidies to foreign companies would likely benefit Intel Corp, the long-time U.S. national champion in chip-making that has promised to redouble its efforts in the most advanced technologies and spend more than $20 billion on new U.S. plants.

Intel last year moved to sell off its only chip factory in China to SK Hynix.

Derek Scissors, of the conservative American Enterprise Institute, who studies China and security issues, said companies should be forced to make a choice.

"If you receive federal government money, you cannot expand your business in China from that point. The end. And if you don't like that, don't take the federal money," Scissors said.

(Reporting by Stephen Nellis, Michael Martina and David Shepardson; Editing by Richard Chang)
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. intelligence community on Thursday acknowledged its agencies had two theories on where the coronavirus originated, with two agencies believing it emerged naturally from human contact with infected animals and a third embracing a possible laboratory accident as the source of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The U.S. Intelligence Community does not know exactly where, when, or how the COVID-19 virus was transmitted initially but has coalesced around two likely scenarios," the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) said, adding that the majority believes there is not "sufficient information to assess one to be more likely than the other."

The ODNI statement did not identify which two of the 17 agencies constituting the U.S. intelligence community believes the virus had originated with infected animals and which agency believes it originated with a laboratory accident.

In both cases, however, ODNI said the agencies that back one theory of origin or the other did so with "low or moderate confidence" - which in spy jargon means they believe the evidence supporting their view is far from conclusive.

A source familiar with intelligence community analyses said neither the CIA nor the Defense Intelligence Agency presently favor either alternative explanation for the virus' origin, adding they were among the large majority of U.S. agencies who believe information presently is insufficient to determine that one scenario was more likely than the other.

(Reporting by Doina Chiacu and Mark Hosenball; Editing by Richard Chang and Bill Berkrot)
By Michelle Nichols

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The United Nations appealed on Thursday for $95 million to help Palestinians over the next three months in Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, after 11 days of the worst fighting between Palestinian militants and Israel in years.

Lynn Hastings, U.N. Humanitarian Coordinator for the Palestinian territories, said the United Nations was currently looking at immediate aid needs and would then assess the longer term damage and how much might be needed for reconstruction.

She said the appeal launched on Thursday was to address "very immediate needs," such as food, health, medicine, medical supplies, quick repairs to infrastructure and cash assistance. On top of the appeal, the United Nations has also already released $22.5 million from other funds to help meet needs.

Separately, Qatar has said it will provide $500 million to help rebuild Gaza, while the United States pledged an additional $75 million in development and economic aid to the Palestinians in 2021, $5.5 million in immediate disaster relief for Gaza and $32 million to the U.N. Palestinian aid agency based there.

Palestinian officials put reconstruction costs at tens of millions of dollars in Gaza, where medical officials said 248 people were killed during the 11 days of fighting. Medics said rocket fire and a guided missile attack killed 13 people in Israel during the hostilities.

A truce began on Friday. The Palestinian Islamist group Hamas rules Gaza and is listed by Washington as a terrorist organisation. Israel has blockaded Gaza since 2007, saying this prevents Hamas bringing in arms.

"Maintaining predictable access for goods and staff to enter and exit Gaza is going to be critical to ensure a way forward in Gaza," Hastings told reporters on Thursday.

(Reporting by Michelle Nichols; Editing by Alexandra Hudson)
By David Lawder and Andrea Shalal

WASHINGTON/BEIJING (Reuters) -U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai said on Wednesday that the United States still faces "very large challenges" in its trade and economic relationship with China that require the Biden administration's attention across the board.

Tai spoke with Reuters in an interview before her first virtual call with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, a meeting in which she raised "issues of concern," according to her office.

"During their candid exchange, Ambassador Tai discussed the guiding principles of the Biden-Harris administrations worker-centered trade policy and her ongoing review of the U.S.-China trade relationship, while also raising issues of concern," the USTR said.

China's commerce ministry described the talks as "a candid, pragmatic and constructive exchange".

"Both sides view the development of bilateral trade as very important. (Both sides) exchanged views on issues of mutual concern and agreed to maintain communication."

The meeting marked the first formal engagement between the trade chiefs of the world's two largest economies since U.S. President Joe Biden took office in January.

It came at a time when Biden has sharply criticized China on human rights abuses and sought to rally his Group of Seven rich nation allies to form a united front on China.

China's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic - which has now killed more than 3 million people worldwide - has also rankled the United States and its allies.

Biden on Wednesday ordered aides to investigate rival theories held by U.S. intelligence agencies on the origin of the virus, including the possibility of a laboratory accident in China. China said it supported a 'thorough investigation' but warned the United States to avoid politicizing the issue.

The Biden administration is conducting a comprehensive review of U.S.-China trade policy, ahead of the expiry of the Phase 1 deal at the end of 2021.

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CHALLENGES 'STILL THERE'

Tai told Reuters the Phase 1 trade deal was important but only part of a complex relationship.

"The overall challenges that we have with China are also still there and they are very large," Tai said.

Tai said the Phase 1 trade deal should be seen in the context of "the overall U.S.-China trade, and economic relationship which is very, very challenging. And requires our attention all across the board."

The two countries signed the trade deal in January 2020 - just before the COVID-19 pandemic began. It calls for China to increase purchases of U.S. agricultural goods, manufactured products, energy and services by $200 billion over 2020 and 2021, compared with a 2017 baseline.

The deal eased a two-year tariff war between the United States and China waged by former President Donald Trump that aimed to change China's trade practices, although duties remain in place on hundreds of billions of dollars of trade.

The Biden administration has promised a similarly muscular pushback on China's state-driven economic model, with new investments in innovation to maintain a U.S. technological edge.

China fell about 40% short of its purchase targets in 2020, and is still lagging in its imports in 2021, with just seven months to go in the two-year deal.

Through 2020, China's total imports of covered products from the United States were $99.9 billion, compared with the commitment of $173.1 billion, according to the Peterson Institute for International Economics.

China also agreed to ease barriers in its financial services sector and agricultural biotechnology regulations, as well as to take steps to protect U.S. intellectual property.

The deal failed to address fundamental U.S. concerns about technology transfer and massive subsidies for state-owned enterprises - issues that the Trump administration had said it would address in a second phase trade agreement.

(Reporting by David Lawder and Andrea Shalal; Additional reporting by Lusha Zhang and Ryan Wu in Beijing, Editing by Michael Perry, Robert Birsel)
The US Navy released a video earlier this year showing what appeared to be UFOs ((US Navy))

A former national security official who went public with reports of UFO sightings has filed a complaint against the Pentagons top official for allegedly running a smear campaign to discredit him.

Luis Elizondo, the controversial whistleblower who worked on a Pentagon program meto investigate unidentified aerial phenomena in 2008, has filed the 64-page complaint with the Pentagons inspector general on 3 May, reported Politico.

The complaint also said that the senior official threatened him that he would tell people you are crazy, and it might impact your security clearance.

Mr Elizando, a former head of the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program, recently came out to say that the governments investigation of UFOs wasnt adequately resourced and alleged they were trying to cover up details about the unexplained sightings.

His latest accusations of a coordinated campaign to discredit him come as Washington officers are set to release a report before Congress in June detailing all their findings on UFOs so far.

It was part of a larger coronavirus relief bill signed by Donald Trump in 2020 which included the mandate for the Pentagon to provide all the information it possesses about unidentified flying objects within 180 days. But the document will likely be delayed, US media report.

Pentagon officials also recently acknowledged authentication of three UFOs sighted over Navy ships, said to be harassing the army off the coast of California.

This file video grab image by US Department of Defense shows part of an unclassified video taken by Navy pilots that have circulated for years showing interactions with unidentified aerial phenomena. (DoD/AFP via Getty Images)

Several internet bloggers were notified  that I had no duties regarding AATIP and that AATIP did not involve the study of UAPs, Mr Elizondo told the Pentagon Inspector General.

As a result, the bloggers began to disseminate reporting, accusing me of being a fabricator.

Daniel Sheehan, an attorney of Mr Elizondo, told Politico that the complaint has a much larger goal than just clearing his clients name. He said it is to pressure the Pentagon to clear up confusion over all UFO sightings.

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Nobody seemed to be taking this thing seriously, the lawyer said about Mr Elizondos claims. The different units and different groups that are responsible for responding to this particular phenomenon theyre not briefing each other on this.

The Defence Departments Inspector General did not respond to the complaint but announced an investigation into Pentagon actions on UFOs on the same day the complaint was filed.

Mr Elizondo has been vocal about efforts to discredit his role since he retired from Pentagon in 2017 and made a series of revelations about the covert Pentagon programme.

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Britain's health secretary Thursday denied lying to colleagues and the country over his handling of the coronavirus pandemic, after a scathing broadside from Prime Minister Boris Johnson's former top adviser.

The attack from Dominic Cummings -- who also called Johnson "unfit for the job" -- raised new questions about whether tens of thousands of people died needlessly because of government incompetence and dishonesty.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock "should have been fired for at least 15, 20 things" after "lying to everybody on multiple occasions, in meeting after meeting in the cabinet room and publicly", Cummings said in testimony to MPs.

Hancock claimed in May 2020 to have thrown a "protective ring" around care homes -- but the main opposition Labour party noted that 30,000 elderly residents have died of Covid-19 and 20,000 older patients were discharged from hospitals without testing.

It also highlighted Cummings' claim that the health secretary had dishonestly blamed the National Health Service for the government's failure to procure adequate personal protective equipment for frontline medics.

The "unsubstantiated allegations around honesty are not true", Hancock said in parliament.

"I've been straight with people in public and in private throughout, every day since I began working on the response to this pandemic last January (2020)," he said.

Hancock received backing from colleagues including senior minister Michael Gove, who told parliament that the health minister has "been doing a great job" and is a "dedicated public servant".

Downing Street has also stood by Hancock, insisting Johnson retains confidence in him.

But the prime minister himself faces questions over whether, as claimed by Cummings, he refused to take the pandemic seriously, ignored scientific advice at a key point, and was obsessed by personal issues and media coverage.

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"Tens of thousands of people died who didn't need to die," Cummings, an abrasive political strategist who masterminded Brexit, said during his excoriating account on Wednesday.

Coronavirus has claimed nearly 128,000 lives in the UK -- the fifth-highest official death toll in the world, and the highest in Europe.

But Johnson's government has also overseen a successful vaccination drive, having offered more than two-thirds of adults at least one dose.

However, scientists say the progress is threatened by the rapid growth of a Covid variant that first emerged in India, which could imperil the government's plans to fully reopen the economy after June 21.

Hancock said ministers were "desperate" to stick to the timetable, "but only if it is safe" once more data on the variant comes through.

jit-csp/phz/pbr/jv
LONDON (Reuters) - Britain's foreign minister Dominic Raab used a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Thursday to restate Britain's concerns over the situations in Hong Kong and Xinjiang.

"The Foreign Secretary reiterated the UKs ongoing concern at the situation in Hong Kong and human rights violations in Xinjiang, and underlined the importance of giving the UNs human rights experts unfettered access to Xinjiang," a British foreign office statement said.

"The ministers ended their call agreeing that there are opportunities for the two countries to work together, from trade to tackling biodiversity loss, and said they looked forward to further discussions on these issues."

(Reporting by William James; Editing by Kate Holton)
The president of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette promised to improve the schools response to sexual assault allegations hours after a USA TODAY investigation revealed what he called critical communication gaps that need to be addressed.

Published Wednesday morning, the investigation chronicled how one student transferred three times to three of Louisianas largest public universities, each time within months of the latest accusation of sexual misconduct, before graduating from UL Lafayette in August 2020.

Six women reported the student for alleged sexual misconduct during his six years in college, the investigation found, but university and police officials repeatedly failed to share the allegations with each other, despite a 2015 law that required it.

In a letter to students, faculty and staff early Wednesday, UL Lafayette President Joseph Savoie called the article troubling.

University of Louisiana, Lafayette President Joseph Savioe said in a letter to the university Wednesday that the school is working with legislators to reform state laws to solve issues raised in a USA TODAY investigation published this week.

Though the University followed state and federal laws and policies as they existed at the time, the article highlights critical communication gaps that need to be addressed, Savoie said in the letter, adding the school is working with legislators to reform state laws to solve these issues.

But our work is not confined to legislation alone, Savoie said. We must continue to improve programs and initiatives and prevent this misconduct from occurring.

Read the investigation: Six women reported a college student for alleged sexual misconduct. No one connected the dots.

Students, faculty and Louisiana lawmakers expressed outrage on social media over the handling of the allegations against Victor Daniel Silva by UL Lafayette, Louisiana State University and Louisiana Tech University, the Lafayette Police Department and the 15th Judicial District Attorneys Office, which serves Lafayette Parish. Each institution failed to share information they had about Silva with each other, leaving the campuses without warning.

Silva, who did not respond to requests for comment for the story and hung up the phone on a reporter, has never been charged with a sex crime. He was arrested once, but prosecutors did not move forward with the case. He told police and others the allegations against him are false.

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Victor Silva told police the allegations against him are untrue.

This is sickening and tragic, New Orleans City Council President Helena Moreno, a former state representative who co-wrote the 2015 law, said on Twitter. It could have been prevented if laws/policies  I worked to create were followed. Instead those were blatantly ignored.

Known as Act 172, the law requires universities and law enforcement agencies to alert each other to reports of alleged sex crimes involving students in their areas. It orders colleges to block students from transferring schools during sex offense investigations and to disclose any resulting disciplinary actions to schools that accept suspected students.

One by one, officials at the institutions failed to comply with the law's provisions or found loopholes to avoid them, USA TODAYs investigation found. When women came forward about Silva, college officials and police didnt communicate, didnt convey critical information and didnt connect the dots on a pattern that might have shaped how they pursued the allegations.

In 2015, Silva transferred from LSU to UL Lafayette weeks after he was accused of sexual assault. LSU did not disclose the allegation to UL Lafayette, even after learning of his arrest for allegedly assaulting a second woman months later.

The same year, after Silvas arrest for alleged second-degree rape, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette placed Silva on probation, letting him stay on campus so long as he stayed out of trouble. Over his next three years there, three women reported him to Lafayette police for alleged sex crimes, but neither the police nor the district attorneys office informed the school, despite an agreement under Act 172 that required it.

Victor Silva spent most of his college career at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He transferred from Louisiana State University to UL Lafayette, then to Louisiana Tech University, then back to UL Lafayette.

In 2018, Louisiana Tech University declined to investigate a womans sexual assault report against Silva because he dropped out three days after she reported it. The university said nothing to UL Lafayette when he transferred back the next month.

Officials at all three universities and both law enforcement agencies denied wrongdoing, saying they complied with all laws and policies at the time.

As an LSU student, its easy to feel disheartened and defeated today, said Kimsey Stewart, an LSU student, on Twitter. Myself and others are tired of trying to advocate for @LSU to do what it is *legally* required to. It shouldnt be this hard. Things shouldnt be this bad.

If you have any tips on sexual assault at universities or Title IX infractions, contact kjacoby@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Louisiana school vows reforms after USA TODAY sexual misconduct probe
Fairfax County police have arrested two people suspected of killing a married military couple in Virginia Wednesday morning.

Police identified the suspects as 20-year-old Ronnie Keandre Marshall and D'Angelo Strand, 19.

VIRGINIA POLICE NAME SUSPECT AFTER MILITARY COUPLE SHOT DEAD OUTSIDE THEIR HOME

"Two distinguished military veterans were gunned down in their front yard," Fairfax Police Chief Kevin Davis said at a news briefing Wednesday. "[They] served out community for many, many years. And they were shot and killed in cold blood in their own front yard."

Edward McDaniel Jr. and Brenda McDaniel, 55 and 63 years old, were shot to death outside their home in Springfield Wednesday morning, police said.

Eight felony charges have been filed, according to Fairfaxs major crimes unit commander, Major Ed OCarroll. The suspects each face two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of the use of a firearm in commission of a felony.

He said police received a tip Thursday on the whereabouts of a vehicle connected to the case after a local resident called in. At that time, they said they took an unnamed person of interest into custody.

"Thanks to the community, we got our offenders," O'Carroll said.

He also credited U.S. Marshals for assisting in the arrests.

Both McDaniels were Army physicians, and Edward was an active-duty colonel, OCarroll said.

Police said there had been a burglary call at the same home earlier in the week and that they believed the incidents were connected, police said.

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Chief Davis said Thursday that police were unsure of a concrete motive but believed it had to do with a dispute stemming from the Monday incident. The suspects and a relative of the victims were co-workers, according to investigators.
Host: Jane Pauley

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COVER STORY: The debate over the geographical center of North America | Watch VideoFor years Rugby, North Dakota, a tiny spot on the prairie, had made a name for itself from its designation as the geographical center of the North American continent  that is, until a bar owner in the town of Robinson, about a hundred miles south, used some string and a globe to claim his town was the true center. Correspondent Lee Cowan visited these unassuming contestants in a tectonic battle for bragging rights, and talked with a geography professor who, armed with latitudes, longitudes and algorithms, may have laid the question of center to rest.

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City of Rugby, N.D.Hanson's Bar, Robinson, N.D. (Facebook)Peter Rogerson, Geography Department, University at Buffaloclayjenkinson.com

Maps are an incalculable asset, when your GPS is

TRAVEL: Navigating our reliance on maps | Watch VideoCorrespondent Martha Teichner charts a course through the history of mapmaking, and the rise of road atlases, which, to our surprise, have not died out with the advent of GPS.

For more info:

Ian Fowler, Curator and Geospatial Librarian, Lionel Pincus and Princess Firyal Map Division, New York Public LibraryRand McNallyRand McNally Road AtlasesScience journalist Maura [M.R.] O'Connor"Wayfinding: The Science and Mystery of How Humans Navigate the World" by M.R. O'Connor (St. Martin's Press), in Hardcover and eBook formats, available via Amazon and Indiebound

The pandemic scuttled Adrian Charley's plans to visit Paris, but she got to travel there anyway, virtually. / Credit: CBS News

TRAVEL: VR Vacations: Globetrotting via virtual reality (Video)Virtual travel through immersive technologies is allowing those stuck at home to experience the world despite a global pandemic. Correspondent Mo Rocca and his avatar explore the world of VR, passport not required.

For more info:

OculusAlcoveVRAltspaceVRVZFitJeremy Nickel, EvolVROculus VR Group (Facebook)Wander VR Travel Club (Facebook)nationalgeographic.comScott Stein, editor-at-large, CNET

Former Senator Bob Dole and former Senator Elizabeth Dole, with correspondent Rita Braver. / Credit: CBS News

POLITICS: Bob and Elizabeth Dole's long personal and political history | Watch VideoFormer Senator and presidential nominee Bob Dole and former Senator and Cabinet Secretary Elizabeth Dole are one of Washington's most celebrated power couples. Correspondent Rita Braver sits down with the 97-year-old World War II veteran, who is taking his diagnosis of Stage 4 lung cancer in stride, and his wife, to talk about their continued public service.

Story continues

For more info:

bobdole.orgRobert J. Dole Institute of Politics, University of KansasElizabeth Dole Foundation

PASSAGE: In memoriam (Video)"Sunday Morning" remembers some of the notable figures who left us this week, including actor Gavin MacLeod, of TV's "Mary Tyler Moore Show" and "The Love Boat."

Actor Samuel E. Wright starred on Broadway in

WEB EXTRA: Remembering actor Samuel E. Wright (Video)"Sunday Morning" correspondent David Pogue looks back at the life of veteran Broadway actor Samuel E. Wright, who starred on stage in "The Lion King," but is best known as the voice of Sebastian the Crab in the animated Disney musical, "The Little Mermaid."

VINTAGE: Yard sale finds: Treasures of the hunt (Video)While supply chain problems have created a backlog for new furniture, sales of vintage home furnishings, easily available online, has exploded. Correspondent Serena Altschul reports on what experts call the "circular economy," and how the internet is changing the nature of 'vintage' in the 21st century.

For more info:

Warehouse 414/Grandmontagne Designs, TopekaElizabeth Daniel - Decor (Facebook group)Chairishyardsalesearch.com

Marine Cpl. Hershel

VETERANS: A Medal of Honor recipient's continued service | Watch VideoDuring the Battle of Iwo Jima, in the face of powerful enemy resistance, Marine Cpl. Hershel "Woody" Williams succeeded in destroying several heavily-defended machine-gun pillboxes, and was awarded the Medal of Honor. But his service to his country, and his gallantry, did not end there. CBS News national security correspondent David Martin talked with the 97-year-old Williams, the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from World War II, about his continuing efforts for Gold Star families.

For more info:

Hershel Woody Williams Medal of Honor FoundationWoody Williams FoundationCongressional Medal of Honor Society: Hershel Woodrow "Woody" Williams

Practicing for Taps Across America. / Credit: CBS News

HARTMAN: Taps Across America, reprised (Video)Last year on Memorial Day, musicians from all 50 states played "Taps" in what turned out to be one of the largest musical tributes of all time. Taps Across America is back this year, and correspondent Steve Hartman talked with some of the musicians, young and old, who will be participating.

How to participate in Taps Across America 2021

For more info:

Taps Across America, Monday, May 31 at 3 p.m.Taps for Veterans

Comic Rich Little, with

COMEDY: Rich Little, still making a great impression | Watch VideoAt 82 Rich Little, who has impersonated hundreds of celebrities and politicians over the years, shows no signs of letting up. Correspondent Tracy Smith sits down with the comedian and impressionist, now performing in Las Vegas, to talk about the presidents, movie stars and TV icons, like Johnny Carson, who have all been given the Rich Little treatment.

For more info:

therichlittle.comRich Little Live at the Laugh Factory at the Tropicana, Las Vegas | Tickets"Trial on the Potomac: The Impeachment of Richard Nixon" at the Theatre at St. Clements, New York (beginning August 6) | Tickets

PHYSICS: Exploring the boundaries of time travel | Watch VideoBreaking the bonds of time has been a timeless pursuit in science fiction stories and movies. Will it ever become science fact? Correspondent Faith Salie explores the possibilities of taking a journey to the future, or the past, even without a souped-up DeLorean.

For more info:

Lisa Yaszek, professor of Science Fiction Studies, Georgia Institute of Technology"The Future Is Female! 25 Classic Science Fiction Stories by Women, from Pulp Pioneers to Ursula K. Le Guin," edited by Lisa Yasrek (Library of America), in Hardcover and eBook formats, available via Amazon and IndieboundPhysicist-author Brian Greene"Until the End of Time: Mind, Matter, and Our Search for Meaning in an Evolving Universe" by Brian Greene (Knopf), in Hardcover, Trade Paperback, eBook and Audio formats, available via Amazon and Indiebound

COMMENTARY: Memories of the Tulsa Massacre | Watch VideoOne hundred years ago, a White mob in Tulsa, Okla., killed 300 Black people and reduced the thriving Black community of Greenwood  also known as Black Wall Street  to ashes. New York Times columnist Charles M. Blow talks about one of the most notorious massacres in American history and those who witnessed it.

For more info:

Charles M. Blow, The New York Times"The Devil You Know: A Black Power Manifesto" by Charles M. Blow (HarperCollins), in Hardcover, eBook and Audio formats, available via Amazon and IndieboundOklahoma State UniversityOklahoma Historical SocietyTulsa Historical SocietyPhotos by Damon Winter (The New York Times)

TRIBUTE: A tribute to "Sunday Morning" writer Tom Harris (Video)Broadcast writer Thomas Harris is retiring this weekend, after 43 years at CBS  and more than 1,000 Sunday mornings for which he found just the right words. Jane Pauley shares a few words in thanks.

NATURE: Yosemite National Park (Extended Video)"Sunday Morning" takes us amidst the splendors of Yosemite National Park in California. Videographer: Scot Miller.

For more info:

Yosemite National Park (National Park Service)

The Emmy Award-winning "CBS Sunday Morning" is broadcast on CBS Sundays beginning at 9:00 a.m. ET. Executive producer is Rand Morrison.

DVR Alert! Find out when "Sunday Morning" airs in your city

"Sunday Morning" also streams on CBSN beginning at 9:00 a.m. ET and again at 11:30 a.m. ET.

Full episodes of "Sunday Morning" are now available to watch on demand on CBSNews.com, CBS.com and Paramount+, including via Apple TV, Android TV, Roku, Chromecast, Amazon FireTV/FireTV stick and Xbox.

Follow us on Twitter (@CBSSunday), Facebook, Instagram (#CBSSundayMorning), YouTube, and at cbssundaymorning.com.

You can also download the free "Sunday Morning" audio podcast at iTunes and at Play.it. Now you'll never miss the trumpet!

Blaze Bernstein remembered for his generosity and spirit

Gottlieb says "side of the ledger" suggesting COVID-19 was result of lab leak has expanded

Global COVID-19 cases and deaths decline but WHO warns pandemic isnt over
A woman shared the phrase that may have saved her life after someone allegedly used an eerie device to break into her hotel room.

TikTok user Josie Bowers (@josiebowers10) posted a duet with a video from another user who warned their followers to look out for a wire contraption with a hook on it.

If you ever see this come under the door, run IMMEDIATELY, the text in the original video said.

This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it.

Bowers said shed seen the device before. Her encounter with it happened when she was 15 and on vacation with her family in Delaware, where they were visiting from Ontario.

Always use the deadbolt!! Scariest experience of my life, she wrote in video.

The TikToker claimed that while the rest of her family was at the beach, she returned to the hotel to take a shower.

I heard these noises, I went to go see what it was and it was this contraption. I was just standing there in my towel, she alleged, adding that someone eventually opened the door slightly and she slammed it shut.

In a second video, she disclosed more information. Bowers explained that she was so shocked that she didnt think to grab the device or call the police, and she didnt have cell phone service.

This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it.

She claimed that when the door opened a crack, she slammed it shut and put the deadbolt on. Whoever was on the other side of the door allegedly said they were services and that they were there to fix the door.

When she opened the door to see if there were really workers present, Bowers claimed they were dressed in jeans and a T-shirt  not the typical attire for that kind of hotel. Concerned they could hurt her, she tapped into something her stepfather had told her in the past, she said in a third video.

So I think Im very smart for this one, my stepdad is a police officer, he taught me never to let people know youre alone, she said. I yelled hey dad, theres someone here to fix the door. As soon as they thought that I wasnt alone, and potentially my dad was there, they ran, they were gone.

Story continues

Bowers said shes glad she had the experience so she could teach people about it.

Commenters were thoroughly spooked.

Im rarely ever scared but this got me, one said.

This app gives me new fears on the daily, another wrote.

Deadbolt those doors, people.

How to pack the perfect weekender bag:

In The Know is now available on Apple News  follow us here!

If you found this story interesting, read more about a womans creepy encounter with a man on her porch.

More from In The Know:

Woman claims neighbor called police over her dressing inappropriately

Barack Obamas first presidential memoir is out now  and its cheaper to read with Kindle

These inexpensive silky-soft pillowcases on Amazon are good for your hair and your skin

The 3 most affordable meal delivery kits for cooking at home

The post Woman shares how she stopped an alleged intruder from breaking into her hotel room appeared first on In The Know.
Yang Hengjun is a popular blogger and former Chinese diplomat

The trial of an Australian-Chinese writer charged with espionage by China has begun in a closed-door court in Beijing.

Yang Hengjun, an Australian citizen, has been detained for over two years after his arrest at an airport in 2019.

Beijing has revealed next to no details about the charges he faces, leading Australia to contend he is suffering an "arbitrary detention".

His case has developed as relations have worsened between the two nations.

Dr Yang is a scholar and novelist who had maintained a blog on China affairs. He was nicknamed the "democracy peddler", but his writings in recent years hadn't been directly critical of the government.

On Thursday, Australian diplomats were turned away from entering his courtroom. Applications had also been rejected for Mr Yang's relatives.

"This is deeply regrettable, concerning and unsatisfactory," Australia's ambassador to China Graham Fletcher told reporters outside the court.

"We've had longstanding concerns about this case including lack of transparency and therefore have concluded it's a case of arbitrary detention."

Australia's ambassador (centre) and other diplomats were barred access to the trial

China's foreign ministry has previously told Australia not to interfere in the case, and to respect the nation's "judicial sovereignty".

Australian officials have repeatedly said Yang was not a spy for the nation.

Foreign Minister Marise Payne told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) on Thursday: "We are not interfering in China's legal system. The concerns we have raised are legitimate ones.

"I very much hope Dr Yang is provided with a fair trial but we have not seen any explanation or evidence for the charges brought against him."

'I will never compromise'

The trial is expected to run for one day, with a decision that could be released much later. China's criminal conviction rate is 99% and for the offence of endangering national security, Dr Yang faces a jail term of 10 years or more.

Story continues

Australia has raised concerns with Beijing about Dr Yang's welfare in his 28-month detention, where he is said to be deprived of sunlight and fresh air.

Dr Yang has told his supporters and lawyers that he has faced daily interrogations and sleep deprivation techniques.

In a letter to friends and family in March, released on the eve of the trial, he said his health had deteriorated but he remained principled.

"If someone wants to take revenge on me for my writings, please explain to the people inside China what I did, and the significance of my writing to people in China.

"I have no fear now. I will never compromise," he said.

Dr Yang had previously worked for the Chinese government for a number of years. He migrated to Australia in 1999 where he gained citizenship and continued his research, but was in recent years based in New York, where he was a visiting scholar at Columbia University.

His wife, Yuan Ruijuan, told the ABC she was "quite nervous and worried about the trial because given the current state of Australia-China relations, it's very hard to be optimistic".

Some analysts have linked the national security tensions between China and Australia to the detention cases of Mr Yang, and Cheng Lei, a former CGTN anchor and Australian citizen who was detained in August 2020.

In February this year she was also charged with spying offences.

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In 2016 China held its first National Security Education Day, where it warned of the dangers of Chinese intelligence falling into the wrong hands.
CDC Director Rochelle Walensky. (Jim Lo Scalzo/Reuters).

WASHINGTON  Young children should continue to wear face masks, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Rochelle Walensky said in congressional testimony on Wednesday, citing studies she says demonstrate that grade-school-age children can contract and spread the coronavirus.

Theres still transmissions associated with young children, Walensky said. They have been vectors of transmission for older people. (People who act as vectors spread a disease without necessarily becoming sick.)

A number of scientists point to research, however, that contradicts Walenskys assertions. What Rochelle Walensky said this morning is incorrect, Dr. Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease specialist at the University of California, San Francisco, told Yahoo News. Children are not vectors.

Just as Walensky was testifying on Capitol Hill before the House Appropriations Committee (she was there to explain her agencys proposed budget, but faced many pandemic-related questions), Gandhi co-wrote an op-ed in the Washington Post that described the risk of a child contracting the coronavirus from an infected person as .00007 percent. Outdoors, Gandhi and her co-authors found, the risk was a thousand times less than that, which is to say effectively nonexistent.

We have sacrificed children on the altar of our fear, Dr. Gandhi told Yahoo News. She described sending the article shed co-written to the parents of her childrens friends, only to receive no response. The implication, Dr. Gandhi figured, was that those parents wanted their kids  and hers  to stay masked.

She said while the risk of the coronavirus to children has been exaggerated, their resilience in the face of Zoom school and other pandemic-related depredations has been overstated.

Wolfgang Rattay/Reuters

Earlier this week, Childrens Hospital Colorado said it was declaring an emergency over the mental health of children. Our kids have run out of resilience. Their tank is empty, the hospitals chief physician said.

Story continues

In response to a query from Yahoo News about how Walensky had come to her conclusion about child-related coronavirus risks, a CDC spokesman sent the agencys guidance on school-based transmission. That guidance links to several studies that show most children do not become infected with the coronavirus. For example, one study cited by the CDC found that more than 90 percent of childhood coronavirus cases in China in early 2020 were asymptomatic, mild, or moderate. Another, conducted in April 2020, found that of 149,082 coronavirus cases in the United States for which information on age was available, only 1.7 percent were children. Three deaths were reported among the pediatric cases, that study found.

This document definitely does not support Dr. Walenskys statement she made in Congress, says Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, a Stanford epidemiologist, who reviewed the guidance forwarded by the CDC at the request of Yahoo News. I remain mystified by her statement.

It was an exchange with Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler that focused partly on an op-ed by Bhattacharya in the Wall Street Journal that prompted Walenskys defense of children wearing face masks.

The op-ed noted that the World Health Organization recommends against masking children 5 and under and only tepidly recommends masking children between 6 and 11. Bhattacharya also wrote that the evidence is overwhelming that masking can harm childrens developmental progress.

Gandhi of UCSF agrees. "It means something to see your teacher's face, she says.

Herrera Beutler has made childhood masking something of a pet cause this week, questioning Dr. Anthony Fauci, a top science adviser to the Biden administration, on the practice on Tuesday. She told Walensky it was unfair for children to bear the isolation burden of the pandemic, even as adult life returns to normal.

I have three kids myself. One has been home all year, Walensky told Herrera Beutler. I understand the challenge. I deeply understand the challenge.

Two students with their teacher at the Dorchester YMCA in Boston, Sept. 10, 2020. (Lane Turner/Boston Globe via Getty Images)

Two weeks ago, the CDC said that vaccinated people no longer have to wear face mask. And though adolescents may now receive the coronavirus vaccine, children under the age of 12 may not. Their inoculations won't be available until the end of the year, Fauci and others have predicted.

Current CDC guidance says that unvaccinated people should continue to wear masks indoors, as well as in most outdoor situations. Critics say that guidance does not take into account that children appear to be largely impervious to the coronavirus. Researchers arent entirely sure why thats the case, though Gandhi believes it could be because of their nasal environments.

And since about half of American adults are now vaccinated, the risk of one becoming ill by coming into contact with a virus-carrying child would appear to be low. Unvaccinated adults who adhere to CDC rules by wearing masks would also have a high level of protection, given the high effectiveness of face coverings in filtering out viral particles.

The CDC is slow, political, reactionary, scientifically unreliable, says Dr. Marty Makary, a Johns Hopkins oncologist who has advocated for a speedier lifting of restrictions. At the same time, when the CDC announced that masks were no longer required for fully vaccinated people, others accused Walensky of moving too quickly.

Many kids are about to head to summer camp for the first time since 2019; many of them will have to do so in masks. Then there will come the issue of masking in school, and whether districts make that a requirement.

I believe we should be in a position for no masks in school, says Brown economist Emily Oster, who writes frequently on pandemic parenting. Europe has not had kids in masks  especially younger kids  in school at all, without lots of spread.

The United Kingdom, which has some of the highest vaccination rates in the world, said earlier this month that masks were no longer required for children in classrooms.

Wearing a mask during lessons has been one of many sacrifices children have made over the last year in our fight against the pandemic, and I know they will welcome this latest step towards a return to normal school life, a British official in charge of childhood welfare policy said.

When the United States will follow suit is not clear, but Walensky says the agency is reviewing guidance for camps and other settings.

____

Read more from Yahoo News:
So we want to let the community know that, Hey, its just a different type of injury that is unseen and we can work through that. And then the other reason is to let the veterans know, we got to talk about it, you cant be embarrassed about things, youve got a good community here, whether its the community you live in or the veteran community to talk about the problems so it doesnt become a bigger issue, he said.

Gary Herber is a team member of Shepherds Men as well as a combat-wounded veteran who served in 2009 in Afghanistan and a Purple Heart recipient and said the SHARE Military Initiative saved his life.

He gives back by handling most of the logistics for the event and gets runners what they need.

I really lost my sense of purpose for a long time and SHARE has helped breathe new life into, not just me, but over 800 other veterans that were literally at the end of their rope, he said. I was absolutely at my wits end for the last time.

From 2009, when Herber first was injured in combat until the time he got to SHARE in 2016, he attempted suicide multiple times.
For example, it requires the agency to explain the steps it took last December to resolve the cases of almost 42,000 people who should have been paid while their claims were pending, while not identifying some of the plaintiffs and providing them with the same relief.

The settlement does not address any unpaid claims from cases flagged for suspected fraud, which Healy has said totals about $59 million. The settlement also does not address future claims that must be adjudicated, including those arising from a requirement all applicants search for jobs, beginning June 1, and those who receive benefits from the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program prove by May 30 they earned wages in 2019.

In addition, it does not address the handling of appeals under a new state law that takes effect July 1 to allow hardship waivers for people who were overpaid by VEC but cant afford to repay the excess amount.

However, advocates said the settlement provides a clear path forward for both the VEC and the people it serves.

The VEC has had a lot of hardships its had to deal with, Levy-Lavelle said in an interview Tuesday. We know there are a lot of dedicated career employees there who have faced challenges during the pandemic.

At the same time, were concerned about people who have fallen through the cracks and have been waiting a long time for answers and benefits, he said. Today is an important step forward, and well be tracking the progress closely.
Japan doled out more foreign aid than other countries in the 1990s but now ranks only fifth, partly on the ending of assistance to China.

Official development assistance by Japan totaled $13.6 billion in 2020, up 17% on the year. But its share of the overall amount provided by members of the Development Assistance Committee of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development shrank to 8% from the 1990 figure of 17%.

These net figures -- aid provided minus lending repaid -- are based on data from the DAC.

Japan was the leading provider in the 1990s but has gradually slipped in the rankings. The U.S. was the top provider in 2020 at $35.1 billion, with Germany in second place.

The U.S. boosted its aid following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, aiming to support development in emerging countries to keep poverty from driving violence. European nations also ramped up aid during that decade.

Japan has increased its aid over the past five years, with the figure up roughly 50% from the $9.2 billion of 2015. This is thanks to a cabinet decision that year to change policy to make it easier to provide aid to countries whose economies have outgrown eligibility conditions.

The change also allowed Japan to provide aid to foreign armed forces for nonmilitary purposes, such as disaster relief. Japan sought to counter Chinese moves to bolster assistance to emerging nations.

China used to be the largest beneficiary of Japan's largesse, with aid starting in 1979. The support, which went mainly to infrastructure projects at first, helped build the foundations of Chinese economic growth. But opposition to Japanese aid grew stronger in China as bilateral ties cooled for various reasons, including differences over wartime history.
In the race to produce the next generation of advanced batteries for electric vehicles, Japan Inc.'s rivals are gathering.

Toyota Motor, the world's biggest car producer in 2020, has long been considered a front-runner to produce a commercially viable solid-state battery -- which would be more stable and faster to charge than the lithium-ion batteries used today by carmakers from Tesla of the U.S. to China's BYD. Toyota plans to announce a prototype of a car powered by a solid-state battery by the end of the year, seeking to launch a vehicle in the early 2020s.

But Germany's Volkswagen, whose sales narrowly trailed Toyota's in 2020, is at its heels. This year the German carmaker increased its investment in QuantumScape, a U.S. startup aiming to produce a solid-state battery. QuantumScape -- backed by Bill Gates and with a market capitalization of almost $11 billion -- said on May 14 that it and VW would decide this year where to build a pilot line for their joint venture to produce batteries. The aim is to establish a production line by 2024, allowing VW to launch EVs with the batteries the following year.

With electric vehicles established as a key part of global efforts to reach net zero carbon emissions, other automakers are raising their bets on advanced battery technology.

Ford Motor this month added to its investment in solid-state battery startup Solid Power. BMW is also joining the U.S. carmaker in the latest $130 million funding round, as the startup plans to supply these automakers with large-format cells for vehicle testing in 2022.

Toyota Motor's BZ4X Concept electric vehicle at the Auto Shanghai show in China in April. Toyota is aiming to launch 15 EVs by 2025.  Reuters

In January, Chinese automaker Nio said its new sedan in 2022 will have solid-state batteries able to hit a 1,000-km range -- though many believe that Nio's planned battery may be half-solid and half-liquid rather than all solid-state. And South Korea's Hyundai Motor said in a conference call last month that it would mass-produce EVs powered by solid-state batteries by 2030.
International students are speaking out against strict entry policies for foreigners imposed by Japan to control COVID-19 transmission and have started a campaign to lobby for entry permits for around 2,000 students unable to take up their places at Japanese universities this year.

Students said Japans border policies make it very difficult to come to Japan to pursue their studies despite being accepted at Japanese universities, causing financial loss and mental anguish.

At an online press conference aired in Japan this week, two Italian students stuck in their country despite being accepted to Japanese universities for this academic year said via video link that Japans border controls were discriminatory. They argued such strict regulations are unfair as Japan prepares to permit international athletes to enter for the Olympic Games slated for this July.

Gulia Luzzo, from the University of Turin in Italy, who is pursuing a masters degree in Japanese literature, said Japan is treating foreign students as invisible.

Luzzo said she lost her Italian scholarship last year awarded under the European Unions ErasmusPlus scheme to support her studies in Japan. The loss is immeasurable both financially and career wise, she said, adding that she is taking online Japanese language classes at Saitama University, Tokyo, and is working several part-time jobs that will pay for her studies while she waits in limbo.

The stress is terrible given the uncertainty in my life. I have not slept properly for months as I juggle work and the time differences between Japan and Italy to take online classes, she said, adding that some international students had changed their plans and gone to more open Asian countries such as South Korea.

However, China continues to bar foreign students, as does Australia.

Campaign for entry permits

Filippo Pedretti, a student at Italys University of Padua, is still waiting to come to Japan for a masters in religious studies. He said on 26 May that he had started a campaign to lobby entry permits for foreign students and is joined by more than 2,000 students around the world facing similar entry restrictions.

Foreign students are willing to follow quarantine measures and other safety steps such as continuous PCR tests to stop the spread of COVID-19. We do not want to delay precious time as we work towards our careers, said Pedretti.

A spokesperson for Japans Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology acknowledged the current situation was not easy for international students, given the global pandemic.

The ministry is aware of the difficulties that have hit aspiring foreign students and have taken new measures to ease the issues, the spokesperson said, preferring his name not be used. Last year, the ministry increased financial support for universities to improve distance learning and also to encourage flexible measures such as easing limits on credits that can be taken via distance learning, he said.

But with Japan now in its fourth wave of higher coronavirus infections and under an extended emergency state placed on big cities, the government has not unveiled a clear policy on easing entry bans for foreigners or made special provisions for international students.

Under a plan to ease entry last year, Japans foreign ministry said Japan would prioritise business travellers and international talent Japan is in need of before easing restrictions for foreign students and eventually for tourists, but set out no timetable. - universityworldnews.com
Five Vodec Supervisors Receive IACPs Community Builder Award

Five supervisors, including four from Council Bluffs, who work for Vodecs Iowa operations have been honored by the Iowa Association of Community Providers with the 2021 Community Builder Award.

Candice Anesi, Amelia Caniglia, Julie Fox, Collin Hames and Tami Masters are among the 76 frontline supervisors recognized for their critical role in bringing together all of the pieces of service delivery, Vodec said in a release. Anesi, Caniglia, Fox and Hames are based in Council Bluffs, and Masters works out of Urbandale.

The Iowa Association of Community Providers supports the more than 130 Iowa community providers so they can fully support Iowans in need of mental health and disability services, the release said.

Frontline supervisors have a tremendous impact on the lives of Iowans with disabilities and the direct support professionals who work with them, IACP Chief Executive Officer Shelly Chandler said in the release. This impact has never been more evident than in the past 12 months. Frontline supervisors have been a key part of managing the COVID-19 pandemic and dealing with the aftermath of a Derecho in August of 2020.

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Fantastic! Im feeling great! once again popped out of my mouth. My daughter quickly blurted out, Dad! You are not feeling great! These are your doctors, and they arent looking for a motivational speech from you. Tell them how you really feel!

She then looked at the leader of the group and said, Please understand that my Dad is a motivational speaker, writer of a column titled, Positively Speaking and an author of four positive books. Its not his nature to say anything else.

The question then hit me like an Acme Anvil dropped on my head as if I were in a Roadrunner cartoon. Is it OK not to be OK?

It doesnt mean Im being negative. Maybe it only means Im giving my medical team accurate information to help them make sound decisions and to help me get better. They needed straight talk from me and not a motivational pep talk. People who are feeling fantastic are not admitted into the hospital.

I took a breath and gave them an accurate depiction of what I was feeling, which was far from fantastic. They seemed relieved and said what I was describing better reflected the results of my test.
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OMAHA, Neb. (AP)  Police say the death of a man who fatally shot himself as he was being chased by officers in north Omaha will be investigated as an in-custody death.
The executive order was signed by Republican Secretary or State Lawerence Denney and went into effect at 11 a.m. Denney's office said it confirmed Little was out of state before determining the order was valid under the Idaho Constitution.

The order applies to city and county governments, public universities, colleges and schools, and public libraries. The ban does not apply to federal buildings, hospitals or healthcare facilities.

Courts are not specifically mentioned in the two-page order, and it's not clear how the executive order would effect that branch of government.

Ive been listening to people all across the state with the concern about, especially, why are little kids being forced to wear masks in school, McGeachin said during an interview by The Associated Press. My oath to the Constitution is to protect those rights and freedoms of the individual, and Ive never supported any type of a mandate on the individual, especially when it comes to health care choices.

She said she hoped Little would let the order stand when he returned.

About 590,000 of Idahos 1.8 million residents have been vaccinated. State officials have reported that the virus has killed more than 2,000 people in the state and sickened some 190,000.
Our nations law enforcement officers work every day to keep our communities safe. We owe it to these brave individuals to provide them with the resources necessary to do their jobs both safely and securely across America. I stand with our law enforcement officers and thank them for putting their lives on the line. Yet despite their service, there are still calls to defund the police, which would leave our communities less safe and drive economic opportunity away from areas that need it most.

I recently co-sponsored crucial legislation to support our police. The Protect and Serve Act provides additional protection for our law enforcement officers by creating an opportunity to pursue enhanced penalties for anyone who targets and purposefully harms any federal, state or local officer. Because criminal manners are typically handled at the state level, these additional penalties apply if an attacker, or an officer, crosses state lines or uses a channel of interstate commerce. There are also increased consequences if a firearm or weapon that traveled in interstate commerce is used in an attack. This bill establishes a penalty of up to 10 years in prison for someone who attacks and injures an officer, with an additional penalty of life in prison for either killing or kidnapping an officer.
Photo: NY1

Wednesday nights debate between the two Republican candidates for mayor saw them call each other a criminal and a wannabe phony, among other things. Curtis Sliwa, the founder of the Guardian Angels, and Fernando Mateo, a businessman and taxi driver advocate, were so vitriolic that NY1 debate moderator Errol Louis had to continually break up the fight.

The New York Post reported on the war of words:

Sliwa then hit at Mateo for blaming law enforcement for the closure of his restaurant on the Hudson River waterfront, La Marina, which filed for bankruptcy in 2019 over massive debt  and following the drug arrest of a manager.

You were running a criminal enterprise, Sliwa charged. All of the sudden you discover you have love for the police.

In his own opening statement, Sliwa pledged to investigate the citys embattled $1.25 billion mental-health group ThriveNYC. He also touted his plan to add more cops to the transit system, saying I will crack down on crime that is paralyzing our city.

During a segment on policing, Sliwa snapped that Mateo hasnt ridden the subway and wouldnt know how to solve mayhem in the citys transit system.

Curtis is a comedian hes a wannabe actor, hes a wannabe phony actor whos lied his entire career to get attention, Mateo lashed back.

You should be a train conductor, Mateo quipped, after Sliwa touted his efforts to deal with subway crime, adding that Its not my fault that I can afford to take a cab.
Teen Vaccine Clinics Coming to Paducah, Murray

By West Kentucky Star Staff

MURRAY - Free vaccine clinics catering to teens are being organized in Paducah and Murray in June.Wild Health will administer the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at Paducah Middle School on Tuesday, June 15.The clinic will be from noon until 7 p.m., and is for people age 12 and older.The vaccine is offered free of charge. You can register for a time slot at the link below. Walk-in appointments will not be accepted.Parents will need to sign a consent form before their childs appointment. Masks must be worn at all times at the clinic, and there is no charge for the vaccine.Vaccine appointments will be opened based on the number of vaccines allocated that week.Murray Pediatrics is hosting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic for teens on June 1 and 2.The clinic will be held at the Murray Pediatrics office in the Medical Arts Building, Suite 208 East, from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m.Pfizer vaccines will be administered to teens ages 12 to 18. Appointments are required. You can schedule an appointment by calling Murray Pediatrics at 270-759-9223.Murray Medical Associates continues to offer vaccinations weekly for adults. To schedule an appointment for an adult vaccine, contact Murray Medical Associates at 270-753-0704.On the Net:
Kate Middleton Had the Sweetest Response to a Little Boy Who Asked If She Was a Prince

Kate Middleton was quizzed by an inquisitive group of children about her royal status during her visit to Scotland this week.

During a stop at the European Marine Energy Centre in Stromness on Tuesday, Kate and Prince William stopped to talk with a group of school children. The royal mom of three bent down to speak with the boys and girls, answering their questions.

"Are you a prince?" one little boy asked Kate, 39.

"I'm not a Prince. I'm the Duchess of Cambridge," she replied. "Lots of people call me Catherine."

A little girl shouted out, "She's a princess!" Kate then asked her, "Are you? Are you a princess?" The girl nodded, prompting Kate to respond, "Aww, you look like one in your beautiful pink coat."

RELATED: Kate Middleton and Prince William Had a 'Quiet' Date Night in the Town Where They First Met

Jane Barlow - WPA Pool/Getty Kate Middleton

Chris Jackson/Getty Kate Middleton

The European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) is the only accredited wave and tidal test centre for marine renewable energy in the world.

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

During the visit, they heard about EMEC's leading role in tackling climate change and supporting the U.K.'s green recovery, from marine renewable energy generation to green hydrogen production and distribution. William and Kate visited the fuel cell and hydrogen storage trailers at Kirkwall Pier before heading out to sea to see the world's largest tidal energy turbine, the 2MW "O2."

Chris Jackson/Getty Kate Middleton

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Story continues

After their events for the day had wrapped, Kate and Prince William had a "quiet" date night in the college town where they met and fell in love.

The royal couple, who celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary last month, were shown to a corner table in a secluded area at the back of Forgan's restaurant with a security detail seated close by.

"When word went around, a crowd gathered at the front, but as far as inside was concerned it was quiet for them. People left them alone," one of the managers, Marc, tells PEOPLE. "There was no pomp and circumstance or fanfare."

Watch: Duke and Duchess of Cambridge try out land yachting
In an embarassing legal bungle, New Zealand's response to Melbourne's COVID-19 outbreak has looped in Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison ahead of his visit.

Mr Morrison is scheduled to visit Queenstown this weekend for the annual Australia-New Zealand leaders' meeting, alongside Jacinda Ardern.

The two governments want Mr Morrison's trip to go ahead, and they will either clarify or fix the law to ensure the visit takes place.

But on Thursday, the NZ Director of Health issued a legal order that casts doubt over Mr Morrison's eligibility to enter or travel around New Zealand.

The directive asks anyone who was in Melbourne between May 20 and May 25 to isolate and be tested.

That timespan takes in Mr Morrison's last visit to the Victorian capital.

The Liberal leader visited Aquaterro, a business in Melbourne's southeast, last Thursday as he toured Australia promoting the government's budget.

A health official contacted by AAP agreed the order would apply to anyone who was yet to arrive from Australia.

However, a spokesman for Ms Ardern insisted the trip would take place.

"We are in close contact with the Australian government and working through any implications for the visit," he said.

It is likely the NZ government will ask Mr Morrison to produce a negative test in the next two days before boarding "Shark One", the PM's plane, to New Zealand.

The health order requiring people in Melbourne to isolate and test captures around 5000 people currently in New Zealand.

Aside from the legalities, there is one other coronavirus-related hurdle that could stop the prime ministerial talks.

Should Victoria's outbreak escalate dramatically in the coming days, Mr Morrison may decide it's appropriate to stay in Australia.

Mr Morrison is due to leave for the trip on Sunday morning, returning on Monday afternoon.
For this years Poetry Out Loud competition, Park memorized and practiced reciting Mingus at the Showplace by William Matthews, a poem about a naive teenagers desire to learn more about creating good art; The New Colossus by Emma Lazarus, a dedication to the Statue of Liberty and the countrys pledge to welcome immigrants; and Say Grace by Emily Jungmin Yoon, a work decrying the religious and cultural assimilation forced by Western colonial states upon Korea.

As a teenage Korean-American girl with a love for the arts and storytelling, Park said she had a deeply personal connection to each poem she chose to internalize and recite.

Unless you have that initial connection to the poem, its not going to be as powerful as it could be, Park said. This year, each and every single one of these poems I feel like I have a very strong, personal connection to, and theres a story behind why I chose each one.

Park won the Auburn High School competition with her recitation of Say Grace before adding the other two poems to her repertoire in order to compete and win in the regional competition. After that, Park placed first in the state competition and now, after recording her recitations for the competition, she waits to watch all the performances and get the results.
Auburn and Opelika will honor their veterans by hosting Memorial Day programs Monday morning.

The city of Auburn and the Auburn Veterans Committee will honor veterans at 9 a.m. Monday at the Auburn Veterans Memorial Monument on the corner of Ross Street and Glenn Avenue.

The city of Opelika will host an outdoor Memorial Day service at 10 a.m. on Monday at the Courthouse Square in Opelika.

Here are more details about each program:

Memorial Day in AuburnThe program will include remarks from Mayor Ron Anders and Lt. Col. James Witte. Veteran and Auburn University student Liyah Stewart will perform God Bless America and the national anthem, according to the ceremony program.

Other events in the ceremony include the lowering of flags to half staff by the Auburn University Naval ROTC and the playing of Taps by Auburn Universitys Nathan Landers. U.S. Navy veteran and bagpiper Dan Drummond will perform Amazing Grace.

Attendees are encouraged to park at the Douglas J. Watson Municipal Complex and Felton Little Park. Ross Street and Glenn Avenue will be closed near the intersection to allow on-street parking for the disabled.


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I came in here just to make sure this masterpiece was posted.

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Obligatory for the culture

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lmao same, this brings me joy when I need a pick me

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SHIBALOPPADOPPA GOTTA TELLLLL YOUUU

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FUCKING CLASSIC

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I dont know how Ive never watched this but I just cried.

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What kinda genre is this

Its called skip



I watch this at least once a month and it has me in tears each time 

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This is the first time I have understood the first two lines that he sung. And I watch this like once a month.



Still didnt make out the third which was posted somewhere down thread.

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This belongs in the Smithsonian as a pivotal point in American culture.

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i have to watch this every time Jeremy renner is mentioned in any space, virtual or reality

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LOL EVERY TIME

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i still don't understand what he's saying. PAPADEEGICKABOO NEVER BE THE SAAAAME!

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Its actually an African proverb hahahahaha

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I always go "He's not just a random white actorrrr"



also please turn the captions on when he's singing. "(SINGING):???"

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it's actually an African proverb. it means "it takes a village"

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i showed this to my roommate last night for the first time!! a bonding experience tbh

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The way Mero reacts every time this audio clip comes up as a call back makes my heart grow three sizes.

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I saw OP said so fucking fine and had to scroll back up to make sure this post was about Jeremy Renner.

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Their angry reaction is KILLING ME.

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LMFAAAAOOOO It is what it is

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You know, it was yesterday when I thought "I wonder where that one Rennerfan is now."



Since manifestation is working this week, You know, I wonder when a job paying me 485$ a day for 3 hours of work 4 days a week will show up.

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Wish that for me too please

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pls manifest a new job for me

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i was thinking that about this renner fan yesterday too lmao, and lo and behold unfortunately here we are

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oh wow it is them and under a new username girl why there are better people... anyone...

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You doomed us all.

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Ontd manifestation powers are off the charts lately tbh.



Hope you get as rich as oprah while working as little as Prince Charles!

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What is this job if i can ask? Its no offense im just curious?

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manifest me some dick

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are you going to bring the Eminem Stan back too??

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Is this a parody of those Jeremy Renner posts we used to have or is this... That same person trying to make it happen again

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Oh jeeze I didn't realize that wasn't Fotographa, this is a completely new (or them, but with a new account) person.



I thought we had standards why are we letting in r*nner stans >:(

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account profile says it's fotografa lol

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is it wednesday?!

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I haven't been to downtown Toronto or on the subway in 15 months. I miss my city :(



Renner doesn't look as haggard as he usually does. He's been showing his age recently.

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so we didn't bully you hard enough

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Cackling

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loooool

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inb4 ONTD mods come for ya. Run, sis, Run!!!!

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With all the money in the world and he still chooses to look like that. I wish I had his confidence (and money).

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Jeremy Renner had a thriving app, a successful music career, and the lucrative Jeremy Renner Amazon Store and now he going to tackle a show on systematic racism? What can't he do?

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He had a store?!

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All the camping gear recommendations and beef jerky you could dream of: https://www.amazon.com/b?ie=UTF8&node=19614678011

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Why doesn't he have a manager to talk him out of these choices?

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This man mustve watched top model and learned from the best.

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an admin accepted this

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I clean my hands of this.

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Issa slow day.

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Is it irony? Or disrespect?

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This confirms my suspicion that Putin runs this site.

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I now find myself wishing his app still existed so the rest of the internet wouldn't have to be subjected to this content. we trolled too hard and failed to see the bigger picture. ragret.

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a photo of himself on set looking so dam ****ing fine!



Ok, but are you going to post the photo?

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at least op used the "who asked for this?" tag

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i feel like that may have been the mod lmao

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Yet they accepted this post. They knew we didn't want this shit sandwich yet they force fed us anyhow.

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they've always used that tag for their posts lmao

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Nuclear energy is a contentious subject in the western world where its future looks increasingly bleak. While nuclear power plants are still the biggest source of carbon-free electricity in most developed countries, the associated risks easily swing voters towards less 'dangerous' sources despite the industry's excellent track record. The new U.S. administration of President Biden needs to develop a clear policy regarding what it intends to do with the countrys aging fleet.

According to S&P Global Platts Analytics, roughly 8 GW is slated for retirement while another 5 GW is at high risk of retirement before license expiration. If these plants were to be closed, the replacement, which most likely would come from gas-fired power plants, could produce 39 million mt/year of CO2, or 2 percent of the emissions in 2016. Last month New York's 59-year-old 1.04 GW Indian Point nuclear power plant was already closed.

The Biden administration's ambitious climate goals could be at risk of failure if these retirements go through. The U.S. intends to decarbonize by having a carbon-free electricity system by 2035 and a net-zero economy by 2050. According to a source engaged in talks with the White House, theres a deepening understanding with the administration that it needs nuclear to meet its zero-emissions goals.

The worlds largest nuclear power fleet is still in the U.S. where 94 reactors in 28 states produce over 20 percent of the country's electricity. The average age of these plants is 39 years and usually, operating licenses are to run for 40 years with possible extensions. While nuclear seems indispensable for reaching the climate goals, their position is increasingly coming under pressure as they are priced out of the market by cheaper carbon based alternatives.

Although renewables have seen remarkable growth over the past decade, it doesn't seem to be enough based on current estimates. According to the EIA, renewables, including hydro, are on track to produce just 40 percent of the country's electricity by 2050. Furthermore, wind and solar have a problem that nuclear could somewhat mitigates: intermittency. The baseline that nuclear power plants produce is a source of stability for the grid and, therefore, for energy security.

In general, two factors are driving nuclear power's decline in the U.S. First, public opinion is not favorable due to the necessity for long-term storage of radioactive waste and the fear of accidents such as the one at Three Mile Island. Second, and more importantly, the fracking revolution in the U.S. and the flooding of the market with cheap natural gas have driven down the costs of power generation.

In an unregulated market, nuclear power plant exploiters find it difficult the make a profit as the price of natural gas has been roughly $2/MMBtu which is very cheap. The Biden administration, however, is looking for ways to support the industry to reach the climate goals. There are two alternatives. First, a nuclear production tax credit could be used similar comparable to the one supporting wind and solar generation. Second, funding could be provided through the American Nuclear Infrastructure act (or ANIA).

According to Alex Gilbert, project manager at thinktank Nuclear Innovation Alliance, "you would spend less overall because the aid would be targeted [trough the ANIA]. There are pros and cons to both, but from my perspective, we at least need one."

With the bill plants which are at risk of prematurely shutting down would receive supportive credit. Also, the supply chain needs to be revitalized, new technologies developed, and the regulatory process for licenses cleared from obstacles to make it more predictable and cheaper. Bipartisan support could lead to the further development of the U.S. nuclear industry that promises thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in foreign trade.

While this seems promising and a no-regret measure, Washington needs to act now. Energy companies are already warning of closures if the support doesnt materialize in the short term. For example, Exelon Corp. in Illinois might close four reactors at two plants in November if financial support doesnt materialize. Therefore, expect more news from the U.S. nuclear industry in the coming months.

By Vanand Meliksetian for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
A clean energy tax credit bill worth some $259.5 billion can advance to the Senate floor after the upper house's Finance Committee voted 14-14 on it, Bloomberg reports, noting that despite the even votes house rules allowed the Democrats to advance the legislation.

The bill, which includes $31.6 billion in incentives for EV buyers, seeks to consolidate tax credits for renewable energy, including incentives for any carbon-free energy source. It targets everyone in the supply chain, from investors in electricity generation projects to households, offering incentives for energy efficiency improvements of homes and clean fuel tax breaks.

The incentives for electric vehicle buyers are particularly generous: buyers can claim a credit of up to $12,500 for a car that was assembled in the United States at a company whose workers are unionized and whose price tag is up to $80,000.

The legislation is part of the Biden administration's $4-trillion infrastructure and green energy spending plans, which includes $174 billion in EV-related investments. The president made a case for the plan earlier this month in Detroit, calling on U.S. automakers to not outsource the manufacturing process.

"We need automakers and other companies to keep investing here in America and not take the benefits of our public investments and expand electric vehicles and battery manufacturing abroad," Biden said at the launch.

Biden's EV plan envisages a total of $100 billion in consumer rebates as well as $51 billion for the construction of half a million charging stations across the country. Although the White House, according to a Reuters report, has yet to reveal how the rebates would be distributed, they will likely help carmakers make their EVs more attractive to buyers, especially given that some, such as Tesla and GM, are no longer eligible for the current tax incentives for EV purchases.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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President Bidens administration has backed the Willow oil project in Alaska in a new filing by the Department of Justice.

A Wednesday filing by the U.S. Department of Justice continues to defend a 2020 Record of Decision for the Willow Project in the National Petroleum Reserve  Alaska (NPR-A), the Department of the Interior told Reuters.

Politico noted in a report that the project has the support of Alaskan Senator Lisa Murkowski, a centrist that could provide a valuable swing vote to the Democrats.

The Bureau of Land Management approved Conocos 160,000-bpd Willow project in the National Petroleum Reserve of Alaska last October. Government officials hailed the project as a job creator and a guarantee that oil will continue to flow along the Trans Alaska Pipeline.

In February, however, after the administration changed, an appeals court blocked the construction of the $2-billion, ruling in favor of environmental groups. Those groups claimed that the government had overlooked the potential impact of drilling for oil on the local ecosystems.

Now, the Department of the Interior will have to defend the Willow project in court even though Interior Secretary Deb Haaland was a vocal opponent last year, while still in Congress.

Alaska is one of the oldest oil-producing regions in the United States, but lately, production has been on a steady decline, which has prompted authorities to look for ways to reverse the decline, which has affected the states income.

Washington selected Conocos Willow plan last year. The plan will involve the construction of roads, one or two airstrips, a gravel mine, and more than 300 miles of pipelines.

The Willow project has reserves estimated at 400 to 750 million barrels of crude and will be instrumental in reversing Alaskas declining production. Opposition from environmentalists, however, remains.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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Xi says China ready to promote continuous development of relations with Montenegro

Xinhua) 08:18, May 27, 2021

Photo taken on Nov. 18, 2019 show a view of the Mozura Wind Park in southern Montenegro. (Xinhua/Shi Zhongyu)

BEIJING, May 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said Wednesday that China is willing to work with Montenegro to carry forward their friendship, consolidate political mutual trust, and to promote the continuous development of bilateral relations.

During a phone conversation with Montenegrin President Milo Djukanovic, Xi said China stands ready to continuously deepen practical cooperation with Montenegro in various fields such as infrastructure construction, so as to better benefit the people of the two countries.

Xi pointed out that since the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Montenegro, the two countries have always maintained high-level political mutual trust, and supported each other on issues involving their respective core interests and major concerns.

Driven by such mechanisms as Belt and Road cooperation as well as cooperation between China and Central and Eastern European countries (CEECs), China and Montenegro have achieved outstanding results in cooperation in such key areas as transportation infrastructure construction and energy, he noted.

Xi said that since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the two countries have been supporting each other, and carrying out sound cooperation in such fields as pandemic prevention and control as well as production resumption.

China's Sinopharm vaccines arrive in Podgorica, Montenegro, March 3, 2021. (Government of Montenegro/Handout via Xinhua)

China is willing to continue to provide as much assistance as its capacity allows for Montenegro's fight against the pandemic, and promote the building of a global community of health for all, Xi said.

Noting that the world is facing changes unseen in a century and a once-in-a-century pandemic, Xi said the two sides should maintain close coordination on multilateral affairs, jointly safeguard international equity and justice, and commit themselves to building a community with a share future for mankind.

Xi recalled that during the recent China-CEEC summit, he reached broad consensuses with Djukanovic and other participating leaders, and they made important plans for the development of the cooperation mechanism.

Noting that this year is the China-CEEC Year of Green Development and Environmental Protection, Xi said that China supports Montenegro in playing a positive role as the lead country of the China-CEEC environmental protection cooperation mechanism.

China stands ready to work with Montenegro to implement the consensuses and achievements of the summit and continuously consolidate and develop China-CEEC cooperation, he added.

For his part, Djukanovic expressed warm congratulations on the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

Noting that under Xi's strong leadership, China has made great achievements in development, he said he believes that under the leadership of the CPC, China will surely attain new and greater achievements.

Montenegro and China enjoy a profound friendship and are true, sincere and good friends, said Djukanovic.

He said his country appreciates China's consistent adherence to the principle of equality between big and small countries, and its respect for the independent choices of development paths different countries have made in line with their respective national conditions.

Montenegro, he added, is also grateful for China's valuable support for Montenegro's economic and social development and its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

Workers unload Sinopharm vaccines at an airport in Podgorica, Montenegro, on May 1, 2021. (Government of Montenegro/Handout via Xinhua)

Belt and Road cooperation and the CEEC-China cooperation mechanism have brought important opportunities and tangible benefits to Montenegro and other countries in the region, Djukanovic said.

He said Montenegro stands ready to work with China to continuously push forward cooperation in such areas as infrastructure, economy, trade, education, culture and tourism, and welcomes more corporate investments and cooperation from China.

Montenegro will continue to actively participate in and firmly push for greater development of CEEC-China cooperation, and resolutely safeguard multilateralism, Djukanovic said.

He said he has full confidence that Montenegro-China and CEEC-China cooperation will embrace more vigorous development in the future.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
by Shafique Khokhar

The authors of the attack are three young people from the neighborhood: Muhammad Noman, Zaheer and Zain. One was arrested. Another is a member of the ruling party and is pushing the police to bury the case. Justice and Peace offer support and legal help to the family.

Karachi (AsiaNews) -Sheeza Waris, a 13-year-old Christian girl, was raped in her home while her parents were away at work. Sheeza's family lives in a rented house in Bhittaiabad, near the Karachi airport. There are also two other children with her at teh time of the attack. Sheeza is the eldest and was raped by three young Muslims who live in the area.

Warris, Sheeza's father, relates that he and his wife work as street sweepers and left the house at 8 am. At the time of the accident they were both at work. When they returned, around 4 pm, the children informed them that some young people had forcibly entered the house and while one was checking the door, the others raped the girl.

Warris says that the three young men - Muhammad Noman, Zaheer and Zain - threatened Sheeza with serious consequences if she dared to talk to her parents and police about it. Zain, one of the attackers, who had been guarding the door, was later arrested by the police; the other two hid and escaped arrest.

Meanwhile, Sheeza is hospitalized at Jinnah Medical Center where she is undergoing several tests. Her family are still waiting for the results from the doctors.

The incident was strongly condemned by Dilawar Bhatti, president of the Christian Peoples Alliance, who asked the government to take a clear stand against all violence against minorities. He also expressed the suspicion that the fame of one of the culprits is slowing down the work of the police and doctors. One of the two attackers, in fact, belongs to the ruling party in Sindh, and is putting pressure on the hospital and the police. For Bhatti, this is why Sheeza's family still, even after 24 hours, has yet to receive the doctor's legal response.

Bhatti stressed that "in a month, this is the second case of rape in Karachi, after that of Jamaima, a Christian girl who was also abused. Christian minors are always targeted .

Kashif Anthony, of Justice and Peace of Karachi, condemning the incident, asked the government to arrest "these monsters and bring them to justice". The National Commission for Justice and Peace is ready to support the family with legal aid.
Whether Big Oil was just dealt a crushing blow by climate activists or whether this is simply a new leaf in a book that weve already opened depends largely on which headlines you read and on which side of the politico-energy divide you fall.

If you strip away the headlines and empty your head of the narrowly polarizing aspects that have hijacked our global energy transition, its possible to examine what just happened on the Big Oil emissions scene with some useful sobriety.

Climate activists have every reason to be celebrating their boardroom--and in one case, courtroom--victories over Big Oil this month. But those victories, while long fought battles, do not imply the end to a mass casualty war. This was never meant to be a war. It is a transition, and what just happened in the boardrooms of the worlds biggest oil companies was a natural part of that.

Its not an end to Big Oil, and its not as crushing a blow as has been suggested.

Shell, BP, Exxon and Chevron have just emerged from some turbulent shareholder votes and, in the case of Shell, a court case.

The cause of the turbulence was climate change and these companies efforts in helping mitigate it. The result of the turbulence is open to interpretation but many have seen it as a win for climate activists.

BP was first. Earlier this month, nearly 21% of its shareholders voted for a resolution filed by Dutch activist investor group Follow This, which had demanded the supermajor increase its emissions-cutting commitments. Follow This necessarily interpreted this as a major victory since a previous resolution of a similar nature had garnered only 8% of the votes.

Indeed, from this perspective, the vote is a definite improvement for the climate change lobby.

From the perspective of absolute numbers, the overwhelming majority of BPs shareholders are fine with what the company is doing in terms of climate commitments right now. Yet, the increase in vote numbers for the climate resolution suggests things are changing, but it certainly wont be overnight.

The shareholder vote at Exxon this week supports this suggestion. The supermajor reported that eight of its own nominees to the board of directors were voted in as well as two nominees of Engine No. 1, a hedge fund acting as activist investor with big ambitions to change Exxons ways.

So, yes, eight is more than two, but this is about much more than mathematical absolutes. The fact that even these two nominees won board seats is indeed a historic victory for activist shareholders, not least because Exxons chief executive himself campaigned against the Engine No.1 nominees, as the Wall Street Journal pointed out.

We welcome all of our new directors and look forward to working with them constructively and collectively on behalf of all shareholders, Darren Woods said after the vote. Related: Russia: Current Oil Market Deficit Is 1 Million Bpd

Weve been actively engaging with shareholders and received positive feedback and support, particularly for our announcements relating to low-carbon solutions and progress in efforts to reduce costs and improve earnings. We heard from shareholders today about their desire to further these efforts, and we are well positioned to respond, Woods added.

One could call this pretending to not have your arm twisted, but there are few options when youve been beaten in your own boardroom. Once again, most of the board members voted in by shareholders were Exxon nominees but a wind of change is certainly blowing in Big Oil Land.

That same wind blew right in the face of Chevron.

The companys shareholders last week voted for a proposal that sought to reduce emissions generated by the people who use Chevrons products. With a majority of 61%, shareholders remained deaf to the supermajors managements efforts to kill the proposal, forcing it instead to commit to an ambitious emission-reduction plan.

Then there was one: Shell. Shell didnt lose to shareholders. Shell lost to a Dutch court, which ordered the supermajor last week to slash its carbon emissions by 45% by 2030 in a landmark ruling in a climate case brought by environmentalists that could set significant precedents for other oil companies.

Shell already had big emissions-reduction plans; however, as a baseline, it used its emission levels from 2016. The court ruled it should reduce emissions from 2019 levels, including those of its suppliers and of its buyers.

Unsurprisingly, the plaintiffs in the case, Friends of the Earth, cheered the courts decision, calling it a monumental victory for our planet, for our children and is a step towards a liveable future for everyone.

Big Oil majors, especially those in Europe, have gone to great pains to show they are serious about reducing their carbon footprint. Many on the activist camp have remained unconvinced. Now, it seems, they are beginning to gain influence among shareholdersand courtsand this may be just the beginning of a transformational change for the industry.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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The environmental group which scored a big win against Shell in court on Wednesday is already helping fellow organizations to sue other Big Oil companies over their contribution to climate change in what could be wave of lawsuits globally.

On Wednesday, a Dutch court ordered Shell to slash its carbon emissions by 45 percent by 2030 in a landmark ruling that could set precedents for other oil companies and that orders the supermajor to cut the net carbon emissions, not the intensity of those emissions as Shell has set in its climate policy.

Friends of the Earth Netherlands filed the lawsuit against Shell in the Netherlands and is now helping other organizations to force emissions reductions at other companies in other countries.

We are already supporting other organizations to set up similar cases in their countries, Donald Pols, director of Friends of the Earth Netherlands, told Bloomberg on Thursday.

This court case and verdict open a whole new approach to climate litigation and because of its success it will be copied by other civil society organizations in the rest of the world, Pols said.

Commenting on the Dutch court ruling against Shell, Andy Palmen, interim director of Greenpeace Netherlands, said:

We can hold multinational corporations worldwide accountable for the climate crisis.

According to Verisk Maplecrofts Environmental Risk Outlook 2021, legal liabilities related to climate are becoming more mainstream as nearly 3,000 cases have been lodged since the start of the century, primarily aimed at changing government policy or claiming compensation from fossil fuel companies for their contributions to global heating.

North America and Europe are the most common venues for such litigation, but lawsuits are now being brought in major emerging markets in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, Verisk Maplecrofts Climate Litigation Index shows.

According to a Thursday report by climate think tank Carbon Tracker, the largest international oil and gas companies have all strengthened their climate policies in the last 12 months, yet none have plans that give investors confidence their business is fully aligned with the Paris Agreement.

To align with the Paris Agreement, companies must commit to absolute reductions in carbon emissions from their oil and gas products, with strong interim targets and a credible implementation plan, said Mike Coffin, Carbon Tracker senior analyst and report author.

Eni, Total, and BP have absolute reduction targets, with Eni having the strongest climate policies. U.S. firms ConocoPhillips, Chevron, and Exxon are the bottom three in the 10-strong list that Carbon Tracker reviewed.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Global oil and gas companies could be facing a major legal threat if the Dutch court ruling on Royal Dutch Shell sets an international precedent. In a case by Dutch NGO Milieudefensie (Environmental Defense) against Royal Dutch Shell (RDS), the court ordered that the oil giant will have to reduce its CO2 emissions by 45% from 2019 levels.



Shell has always claimed that it is doing its utmost to keep in line with both the Paris Agreement and growing societal pressure. The court order, however, has made meeting these goals a legal prerequisite. According to the court, Shell is not only responsible for its own emissions but also needs to act prudently and do its utmost to have its suppliers and clients reduce emissions as well. This is significant as the ruling would mean Shell is now responsible for the whole value chain of operations. That means it is legally responsible for not only the actions of its suppliers but also for the actions taken by clients and consumers.

The reasoning behind this court order is something that cannot be overlooked. The Dutch court was acting based on reports from the IPCC and the Paris Agreements that Shell is liable for possible human rights violations. Those violations would be based on international human rights agreements and interpretations that mean that citizens could claim HR violations based on climate change threats. It remains unclear how solid that legal claim is, and Shell will certainly have its own legal team review it. It is easy to see this ruling as being politically driven, especially as Shells operations in the Netherlands are not a direct threat to Dutch citizens and a Dutch court may not be in a position to address concerns in other places around the world.

For Shell, if the legal order is put in place without any other options available, the company could be heading towards a very stormy future. One of the possible results of the court ruling is that investors and shareholders will have to reconsider their Shell holdings. In an already financially constrained hydrocarbon sector, added pressure on Shell could have a significant influence. The potential reduction of its operations and oil and gas output would threaten its overall financial attractiveness and shareholder value. Decreasing emissions volumes by 45% by 2030, as is now being ordered, could mean a slimmer, different, and potentially weaker Shell by 2030. For the broader sector, this case is evidence of a larger threat, the threat of similar rulings against other European and US-based IOCs and independents. A possible unwanted outcome of all of this is that IOCs or listed oil and gas companies will be facing a future in which investors and shareholders will be reconsidering their investments.

One of the main criticisms being levied against the ruling is that it is evidence of hydrocarbon producers being uniquely targeted by these sorts of broad legal cases. It is also important to note that the human rights of many citizens around the world will be impacted by the lack of access to hydrocarbon-based revenues and the chance of fueling an energy transition with successful hydrocarbon projects.

One group that is likely to be celebrating this ruling is the national oil companies around the world. Rulings like this reduce the market power of IOCs and independents, leaving national oil companies and private-equity to supply, produce, and rule oil and gas in the future. When looking at the legal basis of the court order, it could be argued that moving all oil and gas volumes into the hands of national oil companies could result in exactly the opposite of what the court was attempting to achieve. Adding pressure to IOCs could actually result in a slow down of the energy transition overall. To back NGOs or other political pressure groups without assessing the pivotal role of hydrocarbons in the global economy is very risky, and is unlikely to result in the desired outcome.

By Cyril Widdershoven for Oilprice.com

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Three Senators have proposed an amendment to tax credits to boost the competitiveness of nuclear power, Reuters reports, adding that the proposal is part of a wider energy reform bill that was voted on yesterday in the Senate.

"We're in danger of seeing the premature closing of the nuclear reactors in this country," one of the sponsors of the nuclear bill, Democrat Ben Cardin, said.

Cardin's fellow Senators have yet to vote on the bill, which will be after it is refined.

Nuclear energy is an emission-free form of electricity generation, but it has a bad reputation because of devastatingalthough extremely rareaccidents such as the Chernobyl meltdown and the Fukushima disaster.

Some environmentalist groups do not consider nuclear power clean at all. Others do see a place for it in the emission-free vision of the future. The latter include none other than the International Energy Agency itself.

"Without policy changes, advanced economies could lose 25% of their nuclear capacity by 2025 and as much as two-thirds of it by 2040," the agency warned in 2019. As a result of this, the IEA went on to say, the planet could suffer as much as 4 billion tons of carbon dioxide in additional emissions.

In the United States, nuclear power plants have suffered not just bad reputation but intense competition from cheap, abundant gas and renewables, which do not require the steep upfront investment that a nuclear power plant requires.

The Biden administration has signaled a favorable position on nuclear power, however, which means there is a chance for this form of energy to lose some of its stigma. Indeed, nuclear is part of the American Jobs Plan.

"Among broader energy sector investments, the plan would support the development and demonstration of advanced nuclear energy, a clean energy technology critical not only for meeting mid-century climate goals but for ensuring a more resilient energy infrastructure in the decades to come," said the executive director of the Nuclear Innovation Alliance, Judi Greenwald, at the time.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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Coinbase Fees

One reason why Coinbase has earned nearly $3 billion in revenue over the past 12 months, per Morningstar, is that it charges a bunch of fees. This isnt necessarily badalmost all crypto exchanges charge fees, whether theyre overtly labeled as such or not. The problem is that Coinbases most consumer-friendly offering, its namesake Coinbase platform, charges higher fees for its convenience and simplicity than you may get elsewhereeven on its more complicated crypto trading platform, Coinbase Pro.

First theres the so-called spread fee, which Coinbase says is typically 0.50% of your transaction.

Whats this about?

When you want to buy a cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, you log into your Coinbase account and pick an amount you want to buy, say $100 worth. To determine what thats worth in Bitcoin, Coinbase uses the exchange rate on Coinbase Pro. Coinbase then adds on the spread fee which it terms the consumer exchange rate. This is essentially the difference between the price Coinbase pays to get a crypto and the price it resells it to you for. There may be padding on either end to help Coinbase make a profit.
But Democrats have a slender House majority and control the 50-50 Senate only because of the tie-breaking vote of Vice President Kamala Harris. That means that to overcome a filibuster, Democrats need support from at least 10 Republicans, a heavy lift in a time of intense partisanship.

That's frustrated progressive senators and outside liberal groups, who've pressured Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., to eliminate filibusters  even as their use has become increasingly common by whichever party is in the minority.

According to Senate records dating back to World War I, the number of votes to end filibusters in any two-year Congress never reached 100 until the 2007-2008 sessions. It hit a high of 298 in the 2019-2020 Congress, mostly on Trump appointees that Republicans running the Senate were pushing to confirmation.

In this year's first five months as of this week, there were already 41 votes to end filibusters, mostly on President Joe Biden's nominees.

WHAT CAN DEMOCRATS DO?

It takes a simple majority, 51 votes, to change how the Senate cuts off filibusters. GOP support for retaining them is solid, with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., saying Democrats want to end them in a quest for raw power.
Brown said that Bahena Rivera also had a sexual motive, noting that Tibbetts was partially naked with her legs spread when her body was found in a remote cornfield.

Bahena Rivera knew for five weeks where he had hidden Tibbetts' body under corn stalks but stayed quiet as investigators worked long hours to find out what had caused the sweet young woman to disappear, Brown said. He later led them to the body in the dark and confessed to the crime, he said.

Bahena Rivera's defense lawyer, Chad Frese, told jurors that the confession was false and coerced and that prosecutors failed to prove that it was his client who stabbed Tibbetts to death. He noted that they never found a murder weapon or produced any witnesses showing exactly where she was killed, despite having unlimited resources to pursue the highly publicized case.

Frese said Bahena Rivera had no history of violence and worked to avoid police, given that he was living in the country illegally. He said it made no sense that his client would be brazen enough to pick up a woman, abduct her and maybe kill her in a span of 10 to 20 minutes.

Folks this was planned, not by him but by someone else, Frese said.
Day also was intrigued that a woman had been a pilot, carried a rank and died so young.

I couldnt get it out of my mind, Day said. Who is this person? Why didnt I know her?

It was the early days of the COVID-19 lockdown, and Day had been furloughed from her job managing an automotive detailing shop in Lincoln. She decided learning all she could about Norma Adams would be her pandemic project.

She consulted the genealogy website Ancestry.com and combed through the archives of local newspapers. She tracked down several friends and relatives who knew Norma  including Clarence Shoemaker, a nephew who was raised by his grandparents after his mother died and who knew her like an older sister.

She would read to me whenever Grandma could ever get her to slow down and come in the house, he told Day in an interview.

Norma was the youngest of five children of Newell Pat and Jennie Adams, who farmed north of the village of Adams. (Day said its not clear if they are related to the 19th-century pioneer for whom the town is named.)
by Lee Cheuk-yan

The former democratic parliamentarian, trade unionist and one of the main supporters of the vigil in memory of the killed in Tiananmen, defends his "patriotism", as opposed to the Chinese government search for "patriots", who express subjection to the Party Chinese Communist above all else. Lee Cheuk-yan was convicted of participating in an unauthorized demonstration on October 1, 2019, violating anti-Covid rules. His full testimony before the judge.

Hong Kong (AsiaNews) - To love one's homeland is to love the people, not the Party; "If loving the country meant loving the Party, life would be easier". According to Lee Cheuk-yan, this is true "patriotism", instead of the Chinese government's search for "patriots" who express above all subjection to the Chinese Communist Party. Lee Cheuk-yan expressed these ideas on May 24, in an appeal for the mitigation of his sentence. Former parliamentarian of the democratic movement, trade unionist and one of the main supporters of the vigil in memory of the killed in Tiananmen, Lee was sentenced for an unauthorized demonstration that took place on October 1, 2019. At the time, the demonstration was banned for "health reasons. "Linked to Covid, but Lee's conviction is part of the project launched with the national security law to cancel or minimize the influence of the democratic movement. Along with Lee - who has already pleaded guilty  there are another 9 Democratic personalities, including tycoon Jimmy Lai and former Democratic Party chairman Albert Ho. Here is Lee's statement before Judge Amanda Woodcock.

Your Honor,

I understand that Your Honor had said that convictions and sentences are based on legal considerations, not politics. Even so, I would still like Your Honor to understand the political ideology behind this case and the peaceful demonstration on October 1, 2021.

I was admitted to the Department of Civil Engineering of the University of Hong Kong in 1975. Like many college students at the time, I was prompted by the student movement that advocated for learning about China and caring for society to think about my responsibilities to society and the country. A proposition Where is China going? inspired my constant reflection that still remains very relevant today. This planted the seed of my responsibility toward Chinas future in the 40 years to follow.

Upon graduation, while I joined the Hong Kong labor movement and the democracy movement, I have also been involved in fighting for human rights in China, for I have always believed that the answer to where China is going lies in democratic reforms. The 1989 pro-democracy movement was a pivotal moment in my life. From fully supporting the mobilization of the Chinese pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong, participating in the support work before and after the establishment of the Hong Kong Alliance, to bringing a part of the donations received by the Alliance to the students, workers, and intellectuals on May 30, 1989, in Tiananmen Square. On the night of June 4, I left Tiananmen Square when I heard that the army was going to shoot to disperse the crowds. All night long, all I heard was gunshots in the hotel. In the small hours, I saw tanks entering the Square and tricycles passing by the hotel on Changan Avenue, transporting bodies and wounded people. Detained on June 5, I experienced the most fearful three days of my life. Thanks to the rescue operation initiated by Hongkongers, I was able to return to Hong Kong on June 8. I went from the peak of Chinas democratic hopes to the bottom of despair. I believe this was a shared sentiment among many Chinese and Hongkongers at the time. Yet we did not give up. We picked ourselves up from the bottom, and continued our struggle for Chinas democracy and freedom.

Since then, on every October 1 National Day, we could only wail in despair, There is no National Day, theres only National Grief. On October 1, 2019, we took to the streets as always to demand the vindication of June 4 and the building of a democracy.

Your Honor, I have devoted 40 years of my life striving for Chinas democratic reform. This is my unrequited love. My patriotism is with such gravity. To quote scarred literature writer Bai Hua, who once lamented, You love your motherland, but does the motherland love you? These days, patriots has become a hot topic in town. The Chinese government continues to advocate patriots governing Hong Kong, but who is a true patriot? If to love the country means to love the party, life would be easier. Just follow the CCP and its political stance: Implement if you understand, implement if you do not understand, in-depth understanding through implementation. If one listens to the party, everything is made easy.

But I choose to live in the truth. I insist on my thinking, and therefore I am. My love for the country is my love for the people. The function of a country is to protect its peoples freedom and dignity, not to control the peoples thoughts and behaviors.

Your Honor, this is the path of democracy I have chosen. This is my original intention and commitment behind the many years I have devoted to marching on the streets.
Carry-out drinks werent the most lucrative, Beck said, but it helped while things were shut down. An old-fashioned in the bar ran about $10. But the same drink, served in a Mason jar that holds four or five servings, runs about $25.

I see no reason why we wouldnt, Beck said. It would be counterproductive for us not to do it.

Carry-out drinks helped keep the Tiny House Bar in Omaha afloat during the pandemic, said owner Megan Malone. The bar, located on South 13th Street in Little Bohemia, turned one of its windows into a drive-thru lane.

Having Omahas only cocktail drive-thru, people have really embraced that, Malone said. Its novel. Its convenient.

Malone said the bar plans on keeping the drive-thru in place, even with indoor seating available to patrons. It lets customers grab six margaritas to take to a party or to grab a single cocktail, saving them from the hassle of buying all the ingredients and making the drinks at home.

The new law helps to make the state, and Omaha, more competitive, Malone said.

Something as small as being able to take a cocktail to-go pushes the city forward in a way younger people are responding to. Innovation and convenience, she said.
AAA expects a 60% increase in travelers over the Memorial Day holiday as the nation continues to bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic.

More than 37 million Americans are expected to travel 50 or more miles from home during the weekend ending Monday, AAA Travel predicted. Thats a significant increase from last year, when only 23 million traveled, the lowest number on record since AAA began recording the figure in 2000.

The number of travelers is still expected to be nearly 6 million under 2019s total. AAA urges those who choose to travel this year to exercise caution and take measures to protect themselves and others as the pandemic continues.

As more people get the COVID-19 vaccine and consumer confidence grows, Americans are demonstrating a strong desire to travel this Memorial Day, said Paula Twidale, senior vice president, AAA Travel. This pent-up demand will result in a significant increase in Memorial Day travel, which is a strong indicator for summer, though we must all remember to continue taking important safety precautions.
The Palestinians view the settlements as a violation of international law and a major obstacle to peace, a position with wide international support. There have been no substantive peace talks in more than a decade, leading the Palestinians and many rights groups to describe Israel's control of the West Bank as de facto annexation.

Israel views the West Bank as the historical and biblical heartland of the Jewish people. Plans to formally annex up to a third of the West Bank enjoyed wide support in Israel but were put on hold last year after a U.S.-brokered normalization agreement with the United Arab Emirates.

The Irish motion, put forward by the opposition party Sinn Fein, received cross-party support.

Illegal land grabs, annexation of Palestinian land & homes has been called out by Dail (Parliament) in Dublin, Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said on Twitter. The motion tabled by @sinnfeinireland & supported by all must mark new assertive, consistent confrontation of Israeli crimes against Palestine.

In a separate development, Israel summoned the French ambassador Thursday to protest recent remarks by French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian in which he warned of apartheid if progress is not made on a two-state solution.
What about Gaza? The scope of death and suffering in this most recent round of fighting is horrendous, and we all mourn the loss of innocent Palestinian lives and pray for a (sustained) ceasefire. What is being lost, however, is what Hamas has done to Gaza and to Gazans. Hamas is globally recognized as a terrorist organization, sponsored and trained by the extremist regime in Iran, which literally hides its weapons among and underneath its own people.

Hamas has shown through its actions that it has no respect for loss of life or any intention of improving the welfare of the Gaza people. If it did, when Israel withdrew completely from Gaza in 2005, Hamas would have spent its resources on infrastructure, schools and commerce instead of weaponry and hidden tunnels.

Hamas shoots its thousands of weapons intentionally and indiscriminately at Israeli civilians. While it is true that Israel has superior armaments, it nonetheless employs them only in response to the attacks upon its sovereignty and takes great pains not to harm the helpless. By protecting its citizens, Israel is doing what any country must do.
Diversity is hard. It can be challenging. As Yogi Berra joked, No matter where you go, there you are. Many of us aspire to less social division, others fear change, cynics stoke racial division for political power, and ideologues want to dominate our views. Amid this cultural revolution, I suspect most simply want safety and happiness for others. Its OK to be nervous about change or to ask tough questions as we face it.

Sometimes in our lives we all have pain, we all have sorrow (Bill Withers).

A friend discussed how his views on race evolved, having taught at a historically Black university for several years. Ive learned theres a big difference between being Black and African American, he shared. My father was White. Because of that, Ive always moved in White circles although I didnt realize it. What my friend found was that he was too Black to be White and not Black enough to be considered authentically African American (by some). His sense of isolation is palpable.
The Minister for Energy, Hon. Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh has been conferred with an honourary doctorate degree by the University of Education, Winneba, for his services to education whilst Minister of Education during the first term of President Akufo-Addos tenure. The immediate past Speaker of Parliament, Prof. Mike Oquaye, was also honoured similarly.



In a welcome address, the Chairman of the Universitys Governing Council, Prof. Obeng Mireku, stated that the conferment of honourary degrees by the university is a way of honouring men and women, including citizens and non-citizens, for particular roles that they have played in advancing the cause of humanity and disclosed that since its inception as a full university, 22 persons have been conferred with this honour, with the two recipients of the day bringing the number to 24.



These include Ghanaian former heads of state H.E. Jerry John Rawlings of blessed memory and H.E John Agyekum Kufuor, former Nigerian President, General Abdulsalami Abubakar and Professor Jophus Anamuah-Mensah, former Principal, and first Vice-Chancellor of the University.



According to a citation read during the ceremony, the achievements of the education sector during Dr. Prempehs tenure as Education Minister included the introduction of the flagship Free SHS programme, rolling out of basic school curriculum, huge investments in technical and vocational reforms, upgrading of Colleges of Education from diploma-awarding institutions to degree-awarding University Colleges of Education together with several others including legislative and institutional reforms, together with massive infrastructural development at all levels of the education system.



The short but impressive ceremony, which took place on the universitys North campus by way of a special congregation, was attended by the Chief of Staff, Madam Akosua Frema Opare, who stood in as Special Guest of Honour for President Akufo-Addo, the Minister for Education, Hon. Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, the Central Regional Minister, Mrs. Justina Marigold Assan and Neenyi Ghartey VII, the Paramount Chief of the Effutu Traditional Area, among several other distinguished guests.

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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The Director-General of the Ghana Education Service, Professor Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa has refuted claims that teachers get transferred when they raise issues about their welfare and that of their schools.



Professor Opoku-Amankwa, speaking on Peace FM's 'Kokrokoo' programme, laughed off any such allegations.



According to him, no teacher has been transferred to a different community or school for reasons that he or she expressed his or her grievances.



"It is not true," he stressed while discussing matters concerning the education sector with host Kwami Sefa Kayi.



He explained that transfer is part of their obligations, so when a teacher is sent to teach somewhere, it is not to punish them.



He, however, advised teachers to use the appropriate channel to communicate their problems to their leadership.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Dozens of people are missing feared dead in Nigeria after a boat carrying about 200 broke in two and sank, officials say.



Most passengers were women and children travelling from neighhouring Niger to the north-western state of Kebbi.



One survivor said about 40 people had been rescued, but it is unlikely that many more survivors will be found.



Local authorities told the BBC that divers and emergency workers were trying to save others.



Five bodies have reportedly been recovered.



"Bodies are still being recovered. We can't ascertain the number for now," Yahaya Sarki, a spokesman for the governor of Kebbi, told the Reuters news agency.



Abdullahi Buhari Wara, administrative head of Ngaski district, told the AFP news agency that he blamed the accident on overloading, as the boat was meant to carry no more than 80 passengers.



The boat was also loaded with bags of sand from a gold mine, he said.



Qasimu Umar Wara, a resident of the nearby town of Wara, said that five bodies had been recovered but many more are expected to wash up in the days ahead.



The boat was overloaded, he said: "My brother is among those missing. This is the worst boat accident that has happened in this water."



Boat accidents along the River Niger are common with overcrowding a major cause, as well as collisions with tree trunks under the water.

Source: BBC









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Mali's coup leaders have released interim President Bah Ndaw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane.



They were freed at around 01:00 local time (01:00 GMT) on Thursday, the BBC's Noel Ebrin Brou reports.



The two men had been held at a military camp since Monday.



"We were true to our word," an unnamed military official is quoted as saying by AFP news agency.



The president and prime minister were forced to resign after being stripped of their powers by the military - the second coup in the West African nation in nine months.

Source: BBC









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The government must prioritise mental health and the psychological support needs of vulnerable groups in the country as part of the COVID-19 alleviation plan, the Chief Executive Officer of the Mental Health Authority (MHA), Professor Akwasi Osei, has said.



He said there had been some mental health challenges associated with the pandemic as a result of the traumatic experiences of the sudden loss of lives and livelihoods within families and communities, hence the need to pay more attention to the mental and psychological needs of people affected by the disease in the country.



This was contained in a speech read on behalf of the CEO by the Head of Research at the MHA, Mr Samuel Hanu, at a mental health conference organised by the Ghanaian-German Centre (GGC) for Jobs, Migration and Reintegration in Accra yesterday.



Among the objectives of the conference was to create awareness of the availability of mental health and psychological support services by the GGC.



Difficulties



According to Prof. Osei, the pandemic had disproportionately affected vulnerable populations and their mental and psychological well-being, adding that for people living with cognitive, intellectual and psychological disabilities and the elderly, the risk of relapse was high.



He said a COVID-19 protocol such as social distancing had also limited the interaction of victims with caregivers and loved ones, leading to an increase in loneliness and anxiety, as well as the feeling of uncertainty and fear of the pandemic.



He said the situation had created an additional barrier in accessing timely healthcare services.



Strategic plan



In an effort to improve access to healthcare services for the vulnerable population, the CEO said the authority had launched a 10-year strategic plan, which includes the decentralisation of mental health services at all levels of health care across the country.



Others are the integration of mental health services into the general health care system and the provision of holistic care, in line with the biopsychosocial-spiritual model of mental health care.



Prof. Osei said the plan also sought to ensure equity, prioritise the needs of the most vulnerable population, promote gender sensitivity, as well as the availability of resources.



He said it also included a paradigm shift in mental healthcare services to uphold dignity, autonomy, freedom and the creation of equal opportunities for all.



In furtherance of the objective of empowering the vulnerable population, he said, the authority had also adopted the World Health Organisation quality rights initiative to provide in-person and online free training for health professionals and people living with cognitive, intellectual and psychosocial disabilities.



Concerns



The Head of Communications, Gender and Services at the GIZ Ghana, Mr Oswald Felli, said mental health had become a great concern, especially with the prevalence of the COVID-19 pandemic.



He mentioned problems bedeviling the mental health sector in the country to include inadequate resources, over-institutionalisation and medicalisation and over-centralisation of mental health services.



Mr Felli said at his outfit, returnee migrants from Germany were taken through counselling and treatment processes.









Source: graphiconline.com









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by Nirmala Carvalho

A mob of 150 armed people ransacked the place of worship in Bodoguda. Already last year 8 Christians had been wounded in an assault in the same village. Sajan K George (Global Council of Indian Christians): "Instead of investigating the perpetrators, the police threaten those who report the crime".

Mumbai (AsiaNews) - In Orissa, a crowd of Hindu extremists attacked a church under construction in an area that has long been marked by serious violence against Christians.

Father Purushottam Nayak, a priest of the diocese of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar, told AsiaNews: On May 16, about 150 armed people demolished a church under construction in the village of Bodoguda, in the Koraput district. In the village 12 Christian tribal families who live with 60 Hindu families are victims of anger, jealousy and revenge only for their faith.

Debo Bhoi, a member of the local Christian community, together with pastors Ayub Khora, Jitendra Khosla, Sudhakar Khosla, filed a complaint with the Koraput police station demanding compensation. This persecution has been going on for four years now, but investigations into these complaints are being carried out only formally, because the authorities are Hindu. And the lack of action against the perpetrators of attacks against Christians only encourages new ones.

Sajan K George, president of the Global Council of Indian Christians (Gcic), comments to AsiaNews: "This new attack against the Christians of the village of Bodogua is not spontaneous. The crowd was armed. Last year 8 Christians including one elderly person had been brutally assaulted by a group of Hindu extremists: on 21 July 2020 they entered the house of 75-year-old Chachiri Muduli, which was hosting seven Christians whose homes had been destroyed by the fanatics themselves. Not only did they beat them mercilessly, but also ransacked that building ".

The Global Council of Indian Christians - continues Sajan K George - strongly condemns violence and intimidation in this village. Even in the previous incident, the Christians filed a complaint with the police: not only were there no actions against the perpetrators, but the administration threatened the Christians who had filed them. This failure strengthens extremists who gain political space for their attacks on vulnerable Christian minorities. Alongside a question of order, there is a serious problem that affects religious freedom.
The Bono Regional Minister Justina Owusu-Banahene has appealed to the traditional rulers in the region and Ghana to provide the needed assistance to augment the efforts of the President to achieve his visions for the country.



She said there was the need for chiefs to get involved to help the government to succeed as the government desired to sanitise the various sectors and rid them of illegal activities whilest providing the needed tools for socio-economic development.



The Bono Regional Minister disclosed this at a meeting with the Bono Regional House of Chiefs chaired by the Omanhene for the Dormaa Traditional Council Osagyefo Agyeman Badu.



Justina Owusu-Banahene in her speech said there are many issues confronting the chieftaincy institution, one of which is the numerous chieftaincy disputes across the region, adding that, such conflicts impead the development of the areas where these chieftaincy disputes are and therefore the house of chiefs must expedite actions in resolving those disputes to foster development.



The Regional Minister, thanked Nananom in the Region for the enormous support and cooperation she and the Regional Coordinating council have enjoyed over the past years.



The President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs Osagyefo Agyeman Badu the Omanhene for the Dormaa Traditional Council on his part gave their assurance and readiness to support the Minister and the President to achieve their mision and vision for the nation.



Joining her were the Regional Cordinator Directors, the Regional Cordinator for the Ghana School Feeding Programme also second vice chairperson for the New Patriotic Party, Doris Asoma and other high ranking officials.





Source: Kwabena Manu/Peace fm/Bono East correspondent.









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Tens of thousands of people have been evacuated from the city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo over fears of another volcanic eruption.



Local authorities have said Mount Nyiragongo could erupt once again with little warning.



The volcano, 10km (six miles) from Goma, spewed lava over the weekend, killing 32 people and leaving thousands homeless, the UN says.



Thousands fled then but some residents had started returning.



The area has been rattled by more than 200 aftershocks which have destroyed several buildings, while two cracks several hundred metres in length have appeared in the ground.



Goma is a lakeside city where around 670,000 people live, according to UN estimates.



Tremors have also been felt more than 90km away in the Rwandan capital, Kigali.



Ndima Kongba, the military governor of North Kivu province, ordered the evacuation of nearly a third of the city's residents on Thursday, saying magma had been detected underneath Goma and nearby Lake Kivu.



"Right now we can't rule out an eruption on land or under the lake," Mr Kongba said, ordering 10 districts of the city to evacuate.

Source: BBC









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Seasoned journalist, Abdul Malik Kweku Baako has jumped to the defence of the Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu constituency,Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa for claiming there are galamsey overlords and that the Akufo-Addo government will fail in her fight against galamsey unless the overlords are arrested.



Hon. Okudzeto Ablakwa argued that the efforts by the task force deployed to stop galamsey activities will be unfruitful until "one galamsey overlord, one real architect, an actual financier is arrested and prosecuted".



"How come not even one architect behind this galamsey operation has been arrested? To start a galamsey operation, you need millions of Ghana cedis and so the real perpetrators are not those small boys or the youth who are risking their lives.



"Instead of arresting these guys, we should make them an offer for them to lead us to the real kingpins; if we follow the chain, it will lead us to the barons. Unless we get the real perpetrators, we will always come back to square one," he stated while speaking with broadcaster Kwami Sefa Kayi on Peace FM's ''Kokrokoo''.



In a separate interview with Daily Graphic, the MP emphasized that only fearless truth and unquestionable integrity can be our saving grace. God help the Republic''.



Following his comments, Mr. Ablakwa has come under intense barrage of criticisms.



But responding to Mr. Ablakwa's critics, Kweku Baako asked if what the MP said was true or false.



''Is that a fact or it's not a fact? Rich men, politicians, Chiefs, security officials; is it true or it's not true?''



To him, Hon. Ablakwa spoke the gospel truth.



''I'm inclined to say it is true'', he insisted while discussing the issue on the Wednesday edition of ''Kokrokoo''.



Kweku Baako revealed the galamsey big men or overlords are not ghosts but rather are well-known by the intelligence services.



''If we say we don't know them, then there is intelligence suspect. Our intelligence capability is suspect and must be upgraded. It must be added to the effort to this fight against galamsey'', he argued.



He charged the intelligence services to go after and arrest the galamsey kingpins, believing should an arrest be effected, it will create a ''culture of deterrence'' which will help in the galamsey fight.



''They have the capability. They have the potential and with the right direction and commitment, look, they can come out with information that will help. I won't say it will 100 percent. You may end up somewhere you cannot find the owner or you cannot find who provided or who brought it into the country; always have a grey area of some failure...But if you have dedicated yourself and focus properly, in the process, you will still be able to get some. Those you get, when you punish them, you create a culture of deterrence. You don't give up.



''I'm not about to accept that, in actual fact, it's some battalion of ghosts who is engaged in this galamsey exercise. If we up and upgrade our intelligence capability and commit ourselves to that, we will able to find them, perhaps not all. But once you find some and you subject them to the rule of law, in this case prosecution, conviction and sentence, you create a culture of deterrence'', he maintained.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Former Central Regional Minister, Kwamena Duncan, has castigated former Attonery General and Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu for attacking the reputation of Attorney General, Godfred Yeboah Dame in his latest article titled,



"THE MPs DOUBLE SALARY CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION DOCKET WAS HANDLED BY THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL AND NEVER BY MARTIN AMIDU AS SPECIAL PROSECUTOR: BY MARTIN A. B. K. AMIDU"



Mr. Martin Amidu leveled serious allegations at the President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and also took a jab at Mr. Godfred Dame for speaking about him.



In his article released a day ago, he accuses the President of blackmailing some National Democratic Congress (NDC) Members of Parliament to do his bidding.



He made references to politician and two-time independent Presidential candidate, Jacob Osei Yeboah's (JOY) claims that the President is holding the balls of key NDC MPs cited for taking double salaries.



JOY said; Whats Happening in the 8th Hung Parliament? Nana Addo is holding the balls of key double salary NDCs MPs in the 8th Hung Parliament. You all know that when a mans balls are being squeezed, his mind and actions are incoherently bizarre. So NDC rank and file be calm and understand Gen. Mosquito and Elders. .. NDC is now on Political Dialysis in the 8th Hung Parliament whilst Nana Addo keeps on squeezing the balls of all double salary NDCs MPs and corrupt high ranking members intermittently. Can NDC survive till 2024?



Mr. Amidu also slammed the incumbent Attorney General (AG), Godfred Dame, over the latter's claims that he (Martin Amidu) resigned because of his failure to investigate some NDC MPs for allegedly taking double salaries.



''On 17th May 2021, a friend called my attention to the fact that he had heard a radio discussion on Oman FM in which I was being blamed for the Governments inability to prosecute the Members of Parliaments double salary case which the Office of the Attorney General had allegedly transferred to my office for prosecution, and I had failed or refused to prosecute same before my resignation. This was certainly a deliberate and knowing concoction of fake news from the newly minted Office of the Attorney General to assassinate my integrity and character.



The politically inspired propaganda against my integrity which sought to link my resignation to the failure or refusal of this irredeemably corrupt Government for four whole years to deal with the simple offence of double salary or stealing (as the Criminal Investigations Department of the Police Service put it), are false, infantile and barefaced lies intentionally concocted and put out by the Office of the Attorney-General to the unsuspecting public under the sub-heading Godfred Yeboah-Dame. The effigy of the Attorney-General published alongside the concocted falsehoods of me resigning without prosecuting a case which was never handled by my office during my tenure as the Special Prosecutor demonstrates how shamefully low the hitherto respected ethical Office of the Attorney-General which I had the privilege of serving in for over fourteen years of my career has descended into since 7th January 2021.



Mr. Godfred Yeboah Dame, the young and inexperienced Attorney General should know now that he is the Attorney General that there are no records in his office or the Director of Public Prosecutions office showing that the Attorney-General, Ms. Gloria Akuffo, old enough to be Mr. Dames mother, sent any docket on this case to me as Special Prosecutor to prosecute. No such letter was ever received by me when I was the Special Prosecutor, and no records exists in the Office of the Special Prosecutor of receipt of such a letter or docket from Ms. Gloria Akuffo.



Mr. Godfred Yeboah Dame under whose name the Daily Guide Network reports and attributes the infantile lies that: the Office of the Special Prosecutor which was headed by former Attorney General Martin A.B.K. Amidu, took over the case to do the prosecution but the process was not completed until he resigned late last year ought to have developed the capability of asking the Director of Public Prosecutions as to the status of the case instead of linking to my resignation to a matter which never came under my watch just to assassinate my character'', portions of Martin Amidu's article read.



Reacting to the article, Kwamena Duncan refuted the descriptive title used by Martin Amidu, in his article, to qualify the AG.



According to him, Martin Amidu is speaking out of envy for Godfred Dame.



Discussing the issue on Peace FM's ''Kokrokoo'', Kwamena Duncan noted that Mr. Amidu cannot stand the intelligence of Mr. Godfred Dame, hence his resort to describing him as ''inexperienced Attorney General''.



"This is pure jealousy," he ridiculed Mr. Amidu.



''That man is young but very sharp and intelligent. Godfred Yeboah Dame, very, very sharp and intelligent. In fact, he had six-hour vetting period and I enjoyed every bit of it. Playback the video! Let him take the history of that man as a private practitioner, virtually all his cases, he won all his cases virtually," he stressed.







Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The Speaker of Parliament, Mr Alban S.K. Bagbin, has assured the business community of the commitment of the House to extensively engage them on the proposed amendment of laws that stifle the growth of local businesses.



In line with the pledge, he said, Parliament would directly engage the business community on the drafting of amendments to laws that affected their operations to ensure the growth of businesses for national development.



The Speaker gave the assurance at a meeting with a delegation from the Private Enterprises Federation (PEF) at Parliament.



Issues of taxes



Mr Bagbin was addressing concerns raised by the federation on some compelling issues affecting the growth of the private sector, including laws bordering on taxes.



"One of the things I want to do is engage civil society to present drafts on proposed amendments that will better serve the business community. I will get the relevant committees to look at the specific laws in question and work with you to address the concerns," he added.



Dialogue platform



The President of PEF, Nana Osei Bonsu, who led the delegation, said it was time for the Legislature to create a periodic dialogue platform where issues affecting the private sector could be discussed with members of the House.



He said matters affecting the private sector, including shortcomings in the tax collection system and the general misunderstanding of tax laws by the business community, must be addressed by Parliament.







Source: graphiconline.com









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Some smaller parties with no representation in Parliament say no amount of intimidation and name-calling will deter their members from contributing to electoral reforms at the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC).



According to the group, attempts by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to question their relevance in contributing to electoral reforms were hypocritical given that the party has in the past relied on the support of the same parties.



Addressing a press conference yesterday in Accra, the General Secretary of the National Democratic Party (NDP), Alhaji Mohammed Frimpong, said the NDC's "disconcerting pronouncements" about the participation and influence of its membership to proposed IPAC electoral reforms threaten democracy in the country.



"Today the NDC would call other parties worthless but it forgets that it has pulled its own archival political parties as part of its voice, namely EGLE and Reform Party. Not long ago the venerable Ghana Freedom Party Presidential Candidate, Madam Akua Donkor, acted as the NDC Policy oracle and was prominent in the NDC Presidential entourage to the Senchi forum as well as on foreign trips which included some allied political party leaders, namely Gyataba, Akwasi Addai Odike, Bernard Mornah, etc. What has changed now for this new position of seeking equity in voting at IPAC demanded by the NDC?" Alhaji Frimpong asked.



The press conference, was attended by representatives of the Liberal Party of Ghana, Peoples National Convention (PNC), Great Consolidated Popular Party (GCPP) and United Progressive Party (UPP).



Alhaji Frimpong pointed out that in keeping with a sound pluralistic atmosphere, the participation by other political parties outside parliament had been and would continue to be beneficial in nurturing multiparty participatory democracy.



"Indeed, any obnoxious impediments to widening the frontiers of participation of the citizenry and other political parties must not be accepted in the era of information technology and demand for national accountability."



NDC alternate reforms



He said alternate reforms made by the NDC to the IPAC electoral reforms could have been better stated and shared at IPAC and not outside.



Alhaji Frimpong said the NDC's temporary boycott of IPAC "to rejoin at any future date will just be a ploy to attract undeserved public attention, a disappointment and a dereliction of duty to its supporters".



Respect for alternate opinion



Urging the party to respect alternate opinion, Alhaji Frimpong said: "It is a dictatorial and seditious attitude to think that the NDC should always have its way."



"Indeed, the NDC itself has superintended over many of the issues it complains of today. The tradition has thus been inherited from the NDC.









Source: graphiconline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Former Member of Parliament (MP) for Akwatia constituency in the Eastern Region, Baba Jamal says there is absolutely no sense in going to court because of burning excavators.



To him, the President is making a mistake by allowing the military to burn confiscated excavators from individuals and companies mining illegally.



Why dont we burn houses and other properties when the state seize them? he questioned in an interview with NEAT FMs morning show Ghana Montie.



President Nana Akufo-Addo on Wednesday, May 26, 2021, noted that the state agencies are justified in destroying confiscated excavators from individuals and companies.



I know there are some who believe that the ongoing exercise in ridding our water bodies and forest zones of harmful equipment and machinery is unlawful and, in some cases, harsh.



I strongly disagree and I would advise those who take a contrary view to go to court to vindicate their position if they so wish. That is what the rule of the law is all about, he said



But Baba Jamal also thinks otherwise  he told NEAT FMs morning show host, Kwesi Aboagye that the President is misreporting the law.



According to him, he [President Nana Addo] should rather tell us that he doesnt trust his people with the seized excavators because of their previous experience, hence, the illegal burning than telling affected people to go to court.



This doesnt make sense to me, The former NDC lawmaker added.

Source: king Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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As Part of the youth wing activities, Greater Accra Regional Youth Organizer of the NPP, Hon Moses Abor has rewarded loyal constituency executives who have served for more than twenty (20) years in various positions.



Hon. Moses Abor visited Madina and Ablekuma North constituencies to honour their Organizers.



The awardees, Mr Kofi Agyir Arthur and Mr Kweku Duah received motor bikes, fridges and other food items.



The Organizers jointly thanked Hon. Abor for recognizing their efforts and loyalty to the party.



They disclosed it is the first time such a Regional executive had taken such an initiative.



The Regional Youth Commander also encouraged them to work harder in order to break the eight (8), adding their efforts will not be in vain.



He asked the party hierarchy to reward long serving patriots in the party as well to serve as motivation to the youth.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The National Treasurer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr Kwabena Abankwah-Yeboah, has assured all applicants for the position of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) that they would be treated with utmost fairness.



He said the job of the vetting committees was to identify and select persons who could implement government policies and create real and positive difference in the lives of the ordinary citizens.



Mr Abankwa-Yeboah, who is part of the vetting committee for the Ashanti Region, said this while interacting with some NPP members in Kumasi.



The other members of the vetting committee for the region are the Regional Minister, Mr Simon Osei Mensah, who chairs the committee, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Mr Bernard Antwi Boasiako, and the Deputy Defence Minister-designate, Mr Kofi Amankwah-Manu.



Selfless



Mr Abankwa-Yeboah said those selected must be well-informed, trustworthy, selfless and hard working to promote the well-being and prosperity of the people in their communities.



He said the committee would treat all applicants equitably without fear or favour.



He, therefore, urged all those who would not be selected to rally behind the final nominees to support the development of the areas.



According to him, those who lose out should not see it as the end of the world as they could serve in other capacities.



Mr Abankwa-Yeboah, who is serving as a two-time national treasurer of the party, said the interest of the party should be supreme so that the NPP could retain power in 2024 and break the eight-year cycle.



The National Treasurer of the NPP is among other NPP candidates such as Prof. Christopher Ameyaw Ekumfi, Nana Akomea and Mr Stephen Ntim, whose names have popped up to contest Mr Freddie Blay for the National Chairmanship of the party.







Source: graphiconline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Ghanaian rapper, music executive and nightclub owner, Desmond Blackmore simply known as D-Black has boldly put on record that the slay queens he hangs out or works with are not marriage materials and would not want to date or marry any of them.



Sharing what puts him off and what captures his interest and attention in a woman, D-Black told Graphic Showbiz in an interview that longs or artificial nails are a no for him.



D-Black said, That is the perception out there and it is a wrong one, we do not marry slay queens. Take me for instance, when I meet a woman, the first thing I look at is her nails, I dont like artificial nails or long nails, it turns me off. I mean if your nails are long and you finish eating, who is going to wash your plate for you?



When it comes to hair, I love it short or natural, I dont fall for all those colourful hair. When I see a lady like that, it gives me an impression that you are not serious. The mother of my children doesnt even own a single wig. You will wear high heels, where are you going with it or what do you want to achieve with it? Simplicity is my thing.



When asked what turns him on about a woman, he said, I love career driven, intelligent and passion driven ones.



The Enjoyment Minister rapper revealed that most ladies are deceived by the things they see on social media and forget their values. Because you see us in music videos having fun with such ladies, you think that is what we are into, no.



The lady in that video is a model and she is doing her job, I am also doing my job by looking happy in the video, it doesnt mean she is my type of woman. It is like the truth is right before these ladies but they allow social media pressure get to them and they do not see it.



Look at Stonebwoy, he is married to a dentist, Reggie Rockstone to a doctor; look at the lady Sarkodie is married to, she is not a slay queen, Okyeame Kwame is not married to a slay queen, someone like Shatta Wale at a point was with Michy who is a home girl, so it will be wrong for anyone to put us into such a box.



That notwithstanding, D-Black said his statements did not mean that others dont like slay queens. I believe there is somebody for everyone, maybe there are some men or artistes who like such women and would want to marry them.

Source: Eugene Osafo-Nkansah/Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Hundreds of illegal Chinese fishing boats have entered the waters near the Northern Limit Line, the maritime border between South Korea and North Korea in the Yellow Sea. This year alone, South Koreas special coastguard has caught seven Chinese boats and forced another 360 to leave the fishing grounds near the Northern Limit Line.

Seoul (AsiaNews/Agencies)  South Korea has joined countries like Vietnam and the Philippines to protest the invasion of its fishing grounds by Chinese fishing boats. For South Korea, the issue has also restarted a dispute with North Korea.

Hundreds of illegal Chinese fishing boats (pictured) enter the waters near the Northern Limit Line, the maritime border between South and North Korea in the Yellow Sea.

South Korean authorities and fishermen say the boats enter under the cover of darkness and sweep up everything in their path, leaving a trail of environmental destruction behind them.

On average, 180 Chinese boats have caught crabs north of Yeonpyeong Island, one of South Korea's five northernmost islands, every day over the last month.

This is about three times as many as last year, said Shin Joong-geun, leader of a fishermens association on Yeonpyeong Island. From this island, you can easily see fleets of Chinese fishing boats operating near the Northern Limit Line.

South Korea's Minister of Oceans and Fisheries Moon Seong-hyeok said that illegal fishing must be completely eradicated and warned that from next year the country would employ drones and artificial intelligence to enhance its maritime surveillance systems.

A South Korean fisheries ministry official said the issue of Chinese boats will be raised next month when the leaders of the two countries hold their annual meeting to discuss ways to crack down on illegal fishing.

Chinese authorities say that they are making the utmost efforts to stop illegal fishing by Chinese vessels in our sea. In reality, it is quite difficult for us to deal with Chinese fishing boats operating near the Northern Limit Line, so we always urge Chinese authorities to double their efforts to stop this headache, the fisheries ministry official said.

Chinese boats usually take advantage of darkness at night to come down south of the Northern Limit Line and engage in illegal fishing, said Sergeant Song Joo-hyun of the special coastguard force, which South Korea set up in 2017 specifically to stop illegal Chinese fishing boats.

This year alone, the special coastguard caught seven Chinese fishing boats and forced another 360 to leave the fishing grounds near the Northern Limit Line.

This is a risky job. In 2011, a coastguard member was stabbed to death while taking into custody a fisherman on a Chinese ship.

In the past, said Sergeant Song, they wielded knives, axes and other weapons to ward us off, but these days, they use a different tack. They lock themselves in the cab and engine room and race towards the north.

South Koreans are not allowed to enter within 3.7 km of the Northern Limit Line. In practice, this means that a coastguard team has only a few minutes to catch an illegal Chinese boat or risk ending up in North Korean waters.

Operating at night also helps Chinese boats since South Korean fishermen are prohibited from fishing near the Northern Limit Line after dark.

The Chinese sweep up everything, ranging from fish living near the surface to shell fishes on the seabed, said a local South Korean official. They just dont care about the damage to sea life, he added.

In one case, footage shows a beach near the border littered with rubbish including pieces of Styrofoam and empty plastic bottles with Chinese labels, which Korean villagers said had been dumped by illegal Chinese fishing boats.

The year after South Korea launched its special coastguard  made up of 400 maritime policemen and 12 vessels, including three high-speed armoured boats  illegal fishing in the Yellow Sea reportedly fell 60 per cent. However, since then observers in South Korea say the problem has gotten worse.

Although Beijing denies any illegal activity, the United Nations Security Council said in a report it suspected North Korea was selling hundreds of fishing permits a year to fleets from China to fish in the waters in violation of international sanctions.

In 2018 the two Koreas agreed to resolve the issue by turning the fishing grounds near the Northern Limit Line into a joint fishing area, but no progress has since been made due to ongoing tensions between the two.
" " In this picture, Jesus Christ is shown in conversation with Pharisees about whether it is lawful to pay taxes to the Roman emperor. In the Bible, the Pharisees are often shown as having legalistic arguments with Jesus. Sepia Times/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Jesus only loses his cool a handful of times in the New Testament (just ask the moneychangers in the Temple), but he unleashes one of his fiercest tirades in Matthew 23 against the Pharisees and other "teachers of the law." In verses 13-39, known as "the seven woes," Jesus calls the Pharisees "hypocrites" six times. He also calls them "blind" (five times), "children of hell," "a brood of vipers" and compares the false piety and posturing of the Pharisees to "whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean."

The Pharisees of the New Testament are clearly cast as the bad guys, the perfect ideological and spiritual foils to Jesus and his followers. The Pharisees are portrayed as nitpicky enforcers of Jewish law who are focused so intently on the letter of the law that they miss the spirit entirely. As Jesus says:

"You give a tenth of your spices  mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law  justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former. You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel."

But does this picture of the Pharisees  as legalistic hypocrites  jibe with what historians and religious scholars know about the actual Pharisaic movement, which gained prominence during the Second Temple period of Judaism? We spoke with Bruce Chilton, a religion professor at Bard College and co-editor of "In Quest of the Historical Pharisees," to better understand what the Pharisees really believed and why they clashed with the early Christians.

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Who Were the Pharisees  and the Sadducees?

During the first century C.E., when Jesus lived, the Pharisees emerged as a religious movement within Judaism, not a separate sect. The Temple still stood in Jerusalem and it was the center of Jewish life. One of the greatest concerns of Temple rites was purity  that both the people who entered the Temple and the animals sacrificed there, were "pure" enough to satisfy God. The Torah (the first five books of the Hebrew Bible starting with Genesis) contains written commandments that explain the proper way to conduct Temple sacrifices, but the Pharisees claimed they had additional divine instructions that had been passed down through centuries of oral tradition.

"The Pharisees believed that they had a special reserve of knowledge for determining purity," says Chilton. "They taught that their oral tradition went all the way back to Moses at Sinai, so not only was there a written Torah, which anyone could have access to, but there was also an oral Torah which was inside the Pharisaic movement."

What was distinctive about the oral tradition of the Pharisees was that it expanded the question of purity to life outside of the Temple. Even if a Jewish person lived far away from Jerusalem (in Galilee, for example) and wasn't planning to make a pilgrimage to the Temple, they could conduct their lives in such a way as to be pure enough to enter the Temple.

"In that sense, the Pharisees became a movement for the purity of the Jewish people," says Chilton.

The Pharisees were not, however, the powerful elite of first-century Judaism. Those were the Sadducees, the priestly class that controlled Temple worship and held the most political influence with the Roman Empire, which ruled over Palestine. The Sadducees rejected the oral tradition in favor of the written law (Torah).

The Pharisees were a working-class movement concerned with establishing a clear and consistent Jewish identity in everyday life. Interestingly, it was the Pharisees who believed in an afterlife and resurrection of the dead, both of which were rejected by the Sadducees as they were not mentioned in the Torah. Pharisees also believed a messiah would come who would bring peace to the world, though most of them did not think that messiah was Jesus.

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Jesus Had Friends (and Followers) Who Were Pharisees

The Pharisees are portrayed as a monolithic block in the New Testament, but Chilton says that while all Pharisees were concerned with purity, there was fierce debate among the Pharisees about how best to achieve it. There were certainly Pharisees who believed that purity was obtained from the outside in, and who taught that ritual baths (mikvahs) and the ritual purification of cups and cooking implements was the only way to achieve purity.

In Matthew 23, Jesus lambastes the pharisaic practice of purifying the outside of cups and dishes while "inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence."

"Because Jesus himself was engaged in the issue of purity  but wasn't a Pharisee  his conflict with some Pharisees of his time was inevitable," says Chilton. "If you accuse somebody as impure, you're not saying purity doesn't matter; you're saying the opposite  there's a better way to achieve it."

But Chilton says there were other Pharisees who would have agreed with Jesus, that the true work of purification starts with a pure heart and faith in God. If you read the New Testament closely, in fact, you'll see that Jesus won sympathetic supporters and even followers from the ranks of the supposedly hated Pharisees. Nicodemus, who visited Jesus at night to ask him questions, and then provided money and spices to give Jesus a proper Jewish burial after the crucifixion, was a Pharisee (see John 3). And in Luke 13:31, a Pharisee comes to warn Jesus that Herod wanted him killed.

" " In this 1889 painting, Jesus confronts Nicodemus, a Pharisee who later became one of his followers. Found in the collection of the State Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow. Fine Art Images/Heritage Images/Getty Images

But perhaps the most interesting and consequential mention of "friendly" Pharisees comes in the book of Acts, when a group of Pharisees is listed among the early followers of Jesus who remained faithful after his death. As Chilton explains, though, those Pharisees took an ideological stance in opposition to influential apostles like Paul and Peter, which may explain why the Pharisees got such a bad rap in the New Testament.

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The Meeting That Doomed the Pharisees

In Acts 15, there is a meeting or "council" in Jerusalem attended by Paul, Peter, James, Barnabas and other apostles and followers of Jesus. The agenda of the meeting was to settle an important question among the early church: did non-Jewish men need to be circumcised in order to be baptized and receive the Holy Spirit? The Pharisees in attendance were the first to chime in. In Acts 15:5, it says: "Then some of the believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees stood up and said, 'The Gentiles must be circumcised and required to keep the law of Moses.'"

Notice that it says the Pharisees were among the "believers," further proof some Pharisees, too, were early followers of Jesus. But here's where things go south. The apostles are in stark disagreement with the Pharisees and say that everyone, circumcised or uncircumcised, can have their hearts purified through faith in Christ. Peter, acknowledging the physical pain and danger of circumcising an adult, rebukes the Pharisees in verses 10 and 11:

"Now then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of Gentiles a yoke that neither we nor our ancestors have been able to bear? No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are."

"By the time you get to this meeting in 46 C.E., now the Pharisees are on the other side of this extraordinarily consequential decision," says Chilton. "Paul attacks anyone who supports the widespread use of circumcision as being a hypocrite, a legalist, and being cut off from Christ.

And that's pretty much the take of the New Testament on the Pharisees. It seems that it was this internal dispute among Jesus's followers that produced this stark line of demarcation between Christians and Pharisees."

What's important to understand is that the four gospels of the New Testament (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) were written starting in the year 70 C.E., decades after the meeting in Jerusalem. So it's very possible that Jesus himself wouldn't have harbored such distaste for the Pharisees during his lifetime, but that the authors of the New Testament wrote the gospels with a chip on their shoulder following their ugly divorce with the Pharisees over circumcision.

"The gospels are written from the point of view of a breach that hadn't occurred at the time of Jesus," says Chilton.

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What Happened to the Pharisees?

After the Second Temple was destroyed in 70 C.E., Chilton says that the power structure of Judaism was toppled with it. The Sadducees, who had been the most influential force during the Second Temple period, were scattered, while the underdog Pharisees, "who had been very much on the outs," says Chilton, "really emerged as the last authority standing in Judaism."

Over the ensuing centuries, the oral traditions of the Pharisees were committed to writing in the Mishnah and then commented upon in the Talmud. The Pharisaic "sages" who had transmitted the oral tradition from the time of Moses were replaced by learned rabbis who studied the Torah and the complex commentaries found in the Talmud. Modern Judaism is, in a sense, a continuation of the traditions first championed by the Pharisees.

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Now That's Cool Archeologists in Israel have discovered ancient stone workshops from the Second Temple period where Jews fashioned drinking vessels out of stone instead of ceramic. Stone jars  like the six mentioned at the wedding at Cana, where Jesus turns water into wine  were approved by the Pharisees as ritually pure.
Esco Lifesciences Group, a Singapore firm that pivoted from washing lab gowns to making high-tech equipment, raised US$200 million from some of the worlds biggest health-care investors. (PHOTO: Esco Lifesciences Group)

By David Ramli, Julia Fioretti and Vinicy Chan

(Bloomberg)  Esco Lifesciences Group, a Singapore firm that pivoted from washing lab gowns to making high-tech equipment, raised US$200 million from some of the worlds biggest health-care investors, paving the way for a possible listing in Hong Kong this year.

The funding round led by Danish investment giant Novo Holdings AS and U.S. investor Vivo Capital also included Chinese sovereign wealth fund China Investment Corp., according to a statement from Esco. Other new backers include Singapores GIC Pte., with the fundraising giving the company a valuation of US$800 million, according to people familiar with the matter, who asked not to be identified as the details arent public.

Esco is betting it can use the city states neutral status to acquire equipment makers across Asia, Europe and North America, while Chief Executive Officer Xiang Qian Lin is separately funding the development of medical treatments. Singaporean biotechnology and life sciences firms are raising money to help broaden the countrys economy from a finance and trading hub to an innovator in the global health-care space.

We see the opportunity to become a platform for industry consolidation in this segment between East and West, Lin said in an interview, adding partnerships in China are also possible.

Esco declined to comment on GICs participation in the Series A round or its IPO plans. A spokesperson for GIC declined to comment.

Esco Founding

Esco was founded by Lins parents in the late 1970s to sell disposable products, build so-called clean rooms for labs and offer laundry services for the countrys burgeoning electronics makers. But by 2000 the production of hard drives and semiconductors was shifting elsewhere and the family faced a choice  move up the food-chain to produce lab equipment or shift gears to become yet another property developer.

They chose the former, yet struggled to build their brand and supply chains. Their high-tech products had rarely been offered by Asian vendors before, let alone from tiny Singapore.

Story continues

I remember talk of possibly selling the condominium and mom saying she might have to work as a pharmacist again or get a regular outside job, Lin recalled. As an adolescent, you dont know the whole story of whats going on but you see your parents working long hours and talking over dinner about certain difficulties.

As business got better  thanks in part to the 2003 SARS outbreak  Esco expanded internationally with factories from Indonesia and China to Europe and the U.S. as it rode a wave of biotech innovation. Its bio-safety cabinets are used for handling pathogens; its platforms assist with in-vitro fertilization, and refrigeration units chill vaccines to super-low temperatures. In 2020 it posted US$115 million in revenue, thanks partly to a Covid-driven surge. China is its largest and fastest-growing market.

Novo Support

For Novo Holdings  one of the worlds largest biotech investors with over US$75 billion in assets under management  this is a chance to back an Asian-based equipment supplier at a growth stage, according to senior partner Amit Kakar, who will join the Esco board. Palo Alto, California-based Vivo Capital, the other lead backer, runs US$5.8 billion in assets and will also appoint a director.

The funding will be used in part to finance new facilities and expand Escos contract development and manufacturing division, along with bolt-on acquisitions. Esco is preparing to list as early as this year, seeking to raise as much as US$500 million in an initial public offering, according to people familiar with the matter.

Esco is far from a sure bet. It faces fierce competition from established Western brands that have the money and the reputation to dominate the market. Chinese vendors are also improving their quality as rising domestic demand and access to cheap capital fuel research and development.

Escos product line-up isnt on the high-end of the innovation spectrum; much of this is standard lab equipment, said Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Jonathan Palmer. That said, I dont see why they couldnt compete in categories where they have an established beachhead and expand their offering over time.

Upgrading

Lin says thats a key Esco strategy: to find product niches the titans dont dominate and grow leadership there.

While the vast majority of the new money will go back into Esco Group, Lin said some of his personal funds will go into other lines of business as separate investments. In June, Carmine Therapeutics - a business co-founded by Lin and incubated by EVX Ventures - signed an agreement with Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. to collaborate on the development and sale of non-viral gene therapies targeted at two rare diseases.

Its one of several treatment developers that Lin said he plans to incubate or invest in around the world as he tries to build a global life sciences ecosystem.

 2021 Bloomberg L.P.
Credit: Unsplash / Karl Anderson

With global warming decreasing the size of New Zealand's alpine zone, a University of Otago study found out what this means for our altitude-loving kea.

The study, published in Molecular Ecology, analyzed whole genome DNA data of the kea and, for the first time, its forest-adapted sister species, the kaka, to identify genomic differences which cause their habitat specializations.

The researchers found the kea is not an alpine specialist, but rather one that adapted to using such an open habitat because it was least disturbed by human activity.

Co-author Associate Professor Michael Knapp, of the Department of Anatomy, says that is not likely to surprise people who know the wide altitudinal range in which kea can be found, but it does not mean the species is out of the woods in terms of threats from a warming climate.

"If kea use the alpine zone as a retreat from human activity, then what other options do they have if the alpine zone disappears? Will they increase their use of forest habitat, potentially increasing competition with kaka?" he asks.

To predict how kaka and kea may respond to a warming climate, the researchers also reconstructed the species' demographic histories to understand how they responded to ice age climate and habitat changes.

Kea habitats expanded during glacial periods and kaka habitats expanded during interglacial ones. During these climate changes, kea populations remained stable and relatively small, while kaka populations varied broadly, reaching large population sizes under optimal conditions. The researchers believe this may be because kea is less able to capitalize on favorable conditions.

"It is important to know how alpine species will respond to climate warming so the best conservation decisions can be made to protect them, that is particularly true in isolated island environments with very limited opportunities for species to go anywhere else," Associate Professor Knapp says.

Lead author Denise Martini, Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Anatomy, says the study is "barely scraping the tip of the iceberg" in terms of what scientists could still discover from looking into kaka and kea evolution.

"Unfortunately, when it comes to conservation decisions we are often forced to invest in short-term 'emergency' solutions, and it is rare for researchers and conservation practitioners to have the opportunity to really look into prospects for the long-term survival of a species.

"Making those kinds of predictions in a changing environment requires the sort of in-depth knowledge that is simply not available for a lot of species at immediate risk of extinction. I am hopeful that with the help of new emerging technologies and increased public awareness on environmental matters we will be able to get past the limitations we have now," she says.

Associate Professor Knapp is also hopeful about scientists increasingly studying whole genomes and environmental adaptations on a molecular level.

"We are now able to start looking into how exactly species have adapted to their environment on a molecular level, and that may help us to support conservation efforts with much more informative genetic data than was previously possible. We think that it is an exciting prospect which we hope will help preserve what is left of the iconic New Zealand bird fauna."

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More information: Denise Martini et al, Evolution of the world's only alpine parrot  genomic adaptation or phenotypic plasticity, behavior and ecology?, Molecular Ecology (2021). Journal information: Molecular Ecology Denise Martini et al, Evolution of the world's only alpine parrot  genomic adaptation or phenotypic plasticity, behavior and ecology?,(2021). DOI: 10.1111/MEC.15978
Eckhard Groll (center, below) and Leon Brendel (center, above) prepare to collect data from their experiments onboard a ZERO-G flight. Credit: Stephen Boxall/ZERO-G (www.gozerog.com)

Astronauts have been going to space since 1961, but they still don't have a refrigerator to use for keeping food cold on long missions to the moon or Mars.

Through experiments conducted in microgravity, a team of engineers from Purdue University, Air Squared Inc., and Whirlpool Corporation has shown that a prototype they developed could potentially overcome the challenges of getting a traditional fridge to work in space just as well as it does on Earth.

The canned and dried food that astronauts currently eat during missions has a shelf life of only about three years. The team's project, funded by NASA's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, aims to give astronauts a supply of food that could last five to six years.

Earlier this month, the team ran three experiments to test various aspects of the fridge design onboard a specially designed plane that flew in microgravity 30 timesfor 20-second intervalsduring each of four flights. The plane, Zero Gravity Corporation's (ZERO-G) unique weightless research lab, is the only testing space of its kind in the United States.

Data analyzed so far from the experiments on the flights, supported by NASA's Flight Opportunities program, indicate two big successes of the team's prototype. First, the prototype can operate just as well in microgravity as it does on the ground. Second, the team determined that the prototype was no more likely to flood in microgravity than in normal gravity. Liquid flooding could damage a fridge.

The team is continuing to analyze the flight data collected.

"We want to have a refrigeration cycle that is resistant to zero gravity and works to normal specifications," said Eckhard Groll, a professor and head of Purdue's School of Mechanical Engineering. "Our preliminary analysis clearly shows that our design allows gravity to have less impact on that cycle."

Standard refrigerators use vapor compression to cool down your food. But in space, there is no gravity to keep vapors and liquids secure. Purdue researchers have worked with NASA, Air Squared Inc., and Whirlpool Corporation to create a prototype fridge that works in zero gravity, preserving food for potential long-term space flights. Credit: Alain Bucio/Air Squared Inc., ZERO-G (www.gozerog.com), Purdue University

A promising space fridge design

The researchers are not the first to attempt building a fridge like those used on Earth for space missions, but they are among the few who have tried since astronauts walked on the moon in 1969. Even though fridge experiments have been in space before, they either didn't work very well or eventually broke down.

In practice, the fridge design would cool food through a vapor-compression cycle, similar to the process that a typical fridge uses on Earth, but without the need for oil. Having an oil-free vapor-compression cycle removes concerns about oil not flowing where it should in zero gravity.

The team's prototype is about the size of a microwave, ideal for potentially fitting into the International Space Station's rack systems, EXPRESS Racks, that store research experiment payloads. Air Squared built the prototype and the oil-free compressor inside, which acts as the heart of the fridge.

The team's experiments aimed to test a common hypothesis that pushing refrigerant liquid through a vapor-compression cycle at a higher velocity would reduce the effects of gravity on the fridge's performance. A detailed analysis of the data will show whether the constraint of these high-flow velocities and the large pressure drop they create can be removed, which could improve the fridge's performance by saving energy.

Two experiments built by Purdue researchers flew with the prototype experiment to evaluate how microgravity affected the design's performance and susceptibility to liquid flooding. Whirlpool Corporation provided components for the fridge experiments as well as expertise on how to integrate these components, run the experiments and package the prototype in a way that would meet requirements for use in a long-term microgravity environment such as the International Space Station.

"I had to remember to not get cocky," said Paige Beck (center, above), who worked with Leon Brendel (center, below) to observe the effects of microgravity on a fridge design for use in space. Purdue senior engineering technician, Frank Lee (bottom), was responsible for building the experimental setups. Credit: Stephen Boxall/ZERO-G (www.gozerog.com)

Testing a fridge for space while still on Earth

Before the flights, Purdue researchers showed through one of the experiments that an oil-free vapor-compression cycle can operate in different orientationseven upside down. If a fridge can operate in any position, space crews wouldn't have to worry about making sure the fridge is right side up at a landing.

"The fact that the refrigeration cycles operated continuously in microgravity during the tests without any apparent problems indicates that our design is a very good start," said Leon Brendel, a Purdue Ph.D. student in mechanical engineering. "Our first impression is that microgravity does not alter the cycle in ways that we were not aware of when we tested the effects of gravity on the fridge design on the ground by rotating and inclining it."

Groll, Brendel and Paige Beck, a Purdue junior majoring in mechanical engineering, conducted the experiments on the flights, along with members of the team from Air Squared and Whirlpool Corporation. For each flight, the plane performed 30 parabolas including Martian, lunar and micro gravities.

"Floating around with the experiments is kind of like swimming, except that you don't have resistance around you and you have to work to get the data at the same time. It was pretty fun, but I had to remember to not get cocky," said Beck, who had the challenge of holding herself in place to collect data from an experiment at regular intervals and simultaneously record her actions into a microphone.

Other challenging tasks involved quickly changing parameters in between parabolas or slightly turning a needle valve while floating around.

"Sometimes I was too slow. But you learn as you go, and we successfully got the data we needed," Brendel said.

The team will be completing data analysis in the coming weeks.

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Northern Arizona University professor David Wagner, director of the Pathogen and Microbiome Institute's (PMI) Biodefense and Disease Ecology Center, led a study to better understand the life cycle and behavior of F. tularensis, funded through a $2.25 million grant from the U.S. Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA). Credit: Northern Arizona University

Although it is not spread through human contact, Francisella tularensis is one of the most infectious pathogenic bacteria known to scienceso virulent, in fact, that it is considered a serious potential bioterrorist threat. It is thought that humans can contract respiratory tularemia, or rabbit fevera rare and deadly diseaseby inhaling as few as 10 airborne organisms.

Northern Arizona University professor David Wagner, director of the Pathogen and Microbiome Institute's (PMI) Biodefense and Disease Ecology Center, began a three-year project in 2018 to better understand the life cycle and behavior of F. tularensis, funded through a $2.25 million grant from the U.S. Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA).

One of the most puzzling behaviors of the pathogen is its ability to remain dormant, possibly in what is called a "viable but nonculturable" statewhich means the bacteria is alive, but cannot be grown in the laboratory. That makes it much more difficult to study, because scientists can typically only study bacteria that can be cultured. Wagner's goal was to study the bacterium so as to determine the environmental and genetic factors that contribute to the pathogen's ability to apparently remain dormant for months at a timea phenomenon that has remained mostly a mystery despite more than 100 years of research.

Now, Wagner and his collaborators have published their findings, "Long-Term Survival of Virulent Tularemia Pathogens outside a Host in Conditions That Mimic Natural Aquatic Environments," in the journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology. In the paper, the team shows how they were able to prove, by replicating environmental conditions in the lab, including low temperatures and low-nutrient water, that the bacterium can persist for months in cold water without any nutrients and remain fully virulent. Their results provide a plausible explanation for how it can overwinter in the environment outside of a host.

"We are making some very interesting discoveries in this project," Wagner said. "The main finding is that Francisella tularensis can persist in a dormant state for more than six months in cold water without any nutrients. This means it has the ability to persist in the environment outside of a mammalian host or arthropod vector. This was unexpected because many other bacteria that persist like that long-term in the environment form spores when they are outside of a host, such as Bacillus anthracis, the bacterium that causes anthrax forms spores, but F. tularensis doesn't do that. Others, like Yersinia pestisthe bacterium that causes plagueare always either in a mammalian host or a flea vector. F. tularensis has the ability to persist long-term in the environment long-term outside of a host without forming spores while remaining fully virulent."

"These study results have completely changed our perspective on the ecology of this bacterium. We now understand that mammals are likely just a small (but still important) aspect of its survival strategy. We now think that it spends most of its time in the environment outside of a host and only periodically causes disease in mammals. But those disease events in mammals are still very important as they serve to amplify the amount of F. tularensis that is deposited back in the environment."

Working with co-principal investigator Jason Sahl, associate professor and assistant director of PMI, and with PMI senior research scientists Dawn Birdsell and Joe Busch, Wagner conducted the study along with colleagues at two of the team's long-term collaborating institutions in Sweden: The Swedish Defence Research Agency and Umea University.

Along with their Swedish collaborators, Wagner and his team are known worldwide for their work developing the phylogeny, or global family tree, of F. tularensis and its phylogeographymapping where different groups of the species are found throughout the world and understanding the species' genetic diversity.

"As we continue with the DTRA research grant, we are now investigating the genes and proteins that regulate the ability of F. tularensis to persist in the environment outside of mammals and hosts. This work involves a number of current and recently graduated undergraduate students at NAU: Former student Kathleen Soria, current students Natalie Hart and Rebecca Ballard, and current student and Flinn Scholar Kailee Savage.

Although the bacteria are naturally occurring throughout the northern hemisphere, including Arizona, the number of reported cases in the U.S. is small, with only 230 cases in 2016, three of which occurred in Arizona. Humans can be infected through insect bites; by drinking contaminated water, which happens in developing countries such as Turkey; by handling infected animals; and by breathing aerosolized particles containing the bacteria. Humans cannot transmit the disease to other humans. There is no vaccine to prevent the disease, which is treated with antibiotics. Wagner's team recently completed a related project funded by the DTRA studying the pathogen's antibiotic resistance.

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More information: Igor Golovliov et al, Long-Term Survival of Virulent Tularemia Pathogens outside a Host in Conditions That Mimic Natural Aquatic Environments, Applied and Environmental Microbiology (2021). Journal information: Applied and Environmental Microbiology Igor Golovliov et al, Long-Term Survival of Virulent Tularemia Pathogens outside a Host in Conditions That Mimic Natural Aquatic Environments,(2021). DOI: 10.1128/AEM.02713-20
Beluga whale. Credit: Wikipedia

A stranded beluga whale found dead in the mudflats near Potter Marsh on Tuesday will likely help scientists untangle more information about the critically endangered Cook Inlet beluga population.

Whatever insights they gain could help answer questions about the belugas and why their population has yet to recover after a decline in recent decades.

"Even though it's one individual, we can gain a lot of knowledge," said Jill Seymour, NOAA Fisheries Cook Inlet beluga recovery coordinator.

Since the 1970s, the Cook Inlet beluga whale population has dropped dramatically, by about 80%. Cook Inlet belugas are geographically isolated from belugas in other parts of Alaska, which means if their population were to be wiped out, other belugas likely wouldn't come in and repopulate the area, Seymour said.

Initially, when the Cook Inlet beluga population began to decline, scientists suspected it was due to unsustainable hunting practices. But even after beluga hunting ceased in the early 21st century, the whales didn't recover, and recent estimates show that there are about 280 belugas, compared with a population of roughly 1,300 in the 1970s, Seymour said.

While there's been lots of research into why the population has yet to rebound, scientists haven't been able to find a definitive reason.

Plus, the white whales are so endangered that scientists try not to bother or interact with the living ones, which is why research on an animal that recently died can be so helpful.

"So, one of the best ways for us to try and get at some of the details of the health of individuals and the health of the population is these unfortunate incidences where you have a dead beluga that washes ashore," she said.

That's where veterinary pathologistslike Dr. Kathy Burek, who performed the necropsy on the beluga found south of Anchoragecome in. They take tissue samples from the whales, and those specimens accumulated over time can help build up more information about the population overall.

"There's just so much data that we get out of these guys," Burek said.

Scientists were able to examine the animal after a trucker reported the stranding Tuesday morning. They determined that its death occurred after a ruptured intestine, Burek said.

Because the animal was so fresh and only slightly decomposing, it served as a valuable source of samples for researchers. There's much more that scientists can look at when an animal hasn't yet decomposed.

"The value of the carcass goes down drastically the more rotten it is," Burek said.

The scientists completed the necropsy by taking samples from various organs and making sure the animal had not had any sort of human interaction via boat strike, gunshot or entanglement, which it had not.

They then took the samples back to the lab to look at all sorts of thingsfrom what the animal ate, to contaminants and infectious diseases.

The beluga had a ruptured intestine probably related to parasites, which were found in the whale's abdomen, lungs and kidneys, Burek said. The parasites likely led to an entanglement within a section of the intestines, leading it to rupture.

"Very unusual," Burek said. "I've never seen anything like that before."

A few belugas have been spotted with lots of parasites recently, which brings up more questionswhether it's a new parasite, whether the whales are somehow immunosuppressed or if there are other factors involved, Burek said.

While almost all animals have some parasites living happily together, "the problem comes when you have a parasite that kind of overwhelms the animal," Burek said.

Both Burek and Seymour encouraged the public to call in unusual marine mammal sightings or strandings using the 24-hour marine mammal stranding hotline at 866-755-6622.

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2021 Anchorage Daily News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Canada plans to land a robotic rover on the Moon.

Canada will land a robotic rover on the Moon within five years, its industry minister said Wednesday, announcing that Ottawa plans to "dream big" as it advances its competitive stake in the growing global space market.

"Canada will be part of space history," Francois-Philippe Champagne told a news conference.

"We recognize that global interest in space and in the space industry is on the rise," he said. "As the whole world looks to the stars we are ready to make Canada a world leader in research, technology and innovation so that we can be there as well."

"Let's seize the moment. I don't think there's ever been a better time to be Canadian, and dream big."

The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) will partner with the United States' NASA on the mission, according to a statement.

Two Canadian companies will first be selected to develop concepts for the rover and science instruments for the mission.

The rover will be tasked with exploring a polar region of the Moon and carrying out scientific work, as well as taking images and collecting data on the surface.

In the meantime, a Canadian astronaut is set to take part in a lunar mission for the first time in 2023, as part of the NASA-led Artemis project, it was announced in December.

The mission, Artemis II, will see a crewed test flight sent into orbit but will not involve an actual landing on the Moon, according to the US space agency.

The following year, Artemis III aims to land astronauts, including the first woman, on the Moon. This will be the first landing since Apollo 17 in 1972.

Ottawa has invested Can$36.5 million (US$30 million) over the past year to advance lunar and space technologies including micro-rovers, and to build a third-generation robotic arm dubbed Canadarm3. Its predecessors were deployed on space shuttles and the International Space Station to stickhandle payloads.

A total of Can$2 billion has been earmarked for the Canadian space program over the next two decades.

The global space market, the government said, is expected to triple to Can$1.1 trillion. Canada currently has a 1.3 percent share of this market.

In a sign of the industry's global growth, an unmanned rover from the United Arab Emirates, a hitherto space minnow, will be transported to the Moon next year, lunar exploration firm iSpace announced in April.

Explore further Canadian will join Moon mission for first time in 2023

 2021 AFP
A long-exposure image shows a trail of a group of SpaceX's Starlink satellites passing over Uruguaybut will the company's battery of satellites end up letting it "monopolise" space?

The launching of thousands of satellites into low Earth orbit by tech billionaire Elon Musk's SpaceX threatens the "de-facto monopolisation" of space, the head of competitor Arianespace Stephane Israel has warned.

Elon Musk's Starlink constellation project recently received authorisation from US regulator the Federal Communications Commission to provide broadband from space and place thousands of satellites lower than previously proposed, angering competitors including Amazon.

SpaceX, which asked the FCC for permission which will apply to some 2,800 satellites, plans ultimately to blanket poorly connected and isolated areas of the globe with internet connectivity.

But rivals claim the lower altitude could increase risk of space collisions and heightened radio interference.

"We want space to remain accessible for human activities... but we refuse a Wild West space. It really is our responsibility to ensure that low orbit (less than 1,000 kilometres or 625 miles) above the Earth is sustainable long-term," Israel told a UN-sponsored conference in Geneva on sustainable space development goals.

Israel noted that of more than 9,000 satellites sent into orbit since 1957, "SpaceX has already deployed 1,677 satellites for Starlink, which means that today, of all satellites in operation, 35 percent belong to one manElon Musk.

"And if you include satellites of more than 50 kilogrammes, that's more than 50 percent."

He added that recent years had seen several collisions and warned that "very quickly, we could find ourselves in a catastrophic scenario that would render this orbit impractical."

Elon Musk's Starlink project of low orbit satellites last month won authorisation from US regulators to provide broadband from space and place thousands of satellites lower than previously proposedbut competitors are not happy.

Israel said there was also "a risk of de-facto monopolisation" for Starlink as one of the first firms to set up such a satellite network.

He suggested that was "rather what our competitor is banking on" by securing the FCC's green light.

The FCC judged in April that deployment at a lower altitude than the 540 to 570 kilometres initially proposed "will improve the experience for users of the SpaceX service, including in often-underserved polar regions".

It would also enable the satellites to be more speedily removed from orbit which would have "beneficial effects" in terms of reducing space debris, the authority found.

In all, SpaceX has requested FCC authorisation for up to 42,000 satellites.

That has put pressure on Arianespace, a joint venture between Airbus and French multinational Safran, to ramp up its own competitiveness for launchesa global market whose value Fortune Business Insights estimated at almost $13 billion in 2019, rising to $26 billion by 2027.

French UN ambassador in Geneva and conference organiser Francois Rivasseau stressed that space had a "vital" role to aid sustainable development.

But he also warned that potential risks could suddenly go from fringe concerns to global problemspointing to the coronavirus pandemic as a precedent.

Explore further Barbs fly over satellite projects from Musk, Bezos

 2021 AFP
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Upper secondary schools are increasingly offering teaching in English in several subjects. This has prompted a debate about the status of Swedish and raised fears that students' productive Swedish will be compromised. However, a new thesis provides evidence to the contrary.

Many upper secondary schools offer programs with teaching in a language other than Swedish. In most cases, such Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) uses English as the medium of instruction. The use of another language in the teaching of content subjects has become increasingly common since the decentralization of schools in the 1990s and the emergence of independent schools, but it has also been the target of criticism. In a 2018 report, for example, the Swedish National Agency for Education declared that "teaching in English could pose a risk to the students' development of Swedish and possibly also to their subject knowledge."

There are, however, very few major Swedish studies into the impact that a different medium of instruction has on the Swedish writing skills of upper secondary school students. In her aim to bring new knowledge to this field, Elisabeth Ohlsson has analyzed a total of 692 student texts written over time by students at three municipal upper secondary schools. The students attended different kinds of classes, both with Swedish as the main medium of instruction (non-CLIL) and classes with a varying degree of English as the medium of instruction (CLIL).

"The results in my thesis show that teaching in English does not compromise the students' productive Swedish," says Elisabeth Ohlsson.

All the students were enrolled in higher education preparatory programs. The extent to which Swedish compulsory schools can use a different medium of instruction is regulated in law. There is, however, no such regulation governing upper secondary schools in Sweden, in contrast to several other countries.

Intervention study

A follow-up intervention study at one of the schools, involving both CLIL and non-CLIL students, was used to didactically test the quantitative text studies in practice. The didactic tools used included lexical profiles, which visualize the occurrence and frequency of the words with colors, plus model texts. This method has not been used before in Swedish educational research. The results demonstrate significant differences in the follow-up test between the students who took part in the intervention and those who formed the control group.

"These results can be seen as a methodological contribution to the field of writing instruction," concludes Elisabeth Ohlsson.

More information: The visualized vocabulary and the practice. Upper secondary school students' academic writing in Swedish. The visualized vocabulary and the practice. Upper secondary school students' academic writing in Swedish. gupea.ub.gu.se/handle/2077/68077
Common triplefin, Forsterygion lapillum, from New Zealand. Credit: Sean D. Connell

Human-driven global change is challenging the scientific community to understand how marine species might adapt to predicted environmental conditions in the near-future (e.g. hypoxia, ocean warming, and ocean acidification). The effects of the uptake of anthropogenic atmospheric CO 2 by oceans affects (i.e. ocean acidification) propagate across the biological hierarchy, from changes in the building blocks of life at nano-scales to organism, physiology and behavior through ecosystem processes and their properties.

To survive in a reduced pH environment, marine organisms have to adjust their physiology which, at the molecular level, is achieved by modifying the expression of genes. The study of such changes in gene expression can aid in revealing the adaptive mechanisms of life under predicted future ocean acidification conditions.

Making use of natural laboratories

There are a few places on this planet where volcanic activity has CO 2 bubbling from the seafloor creating conditions that are similar to those predicted to occur across the oceans in the near-future. Such natural laboratories can then help us to understand what will happen to marine organisms in the future under an ocean acidification scenario. Therefore, researchers from Research Division for Ecology & Biodiversity of the University of Hong Kong (HKU) and Swire Institute of Marine Science, jointly with researchers from the University of Adelaide, traveled to a remote volcanic island of New Zealand called White Island. They collected samples from CO 2 seeps and nearby locations, and analyzed molecular data from a fish species (the Common triplefin) with ecological evidence of being successfully adapted to acidified environments at CO 2 volcanic vents. The findings were published in a peer-reviewed open access journal Evolutionary Applications.

Studying evolutionary mechanism through species mutations

The study found a higher gene expression in gonads in fish living in the CO 2 vents with reduced pH than those from control environments with ambient CO 2 and pH conditions. Most of those genes were functionally involved in the maintenance of pH homeostasis, increased metabolism, and regulatory functions of downstream biological processes revealing important processes a fish needs to adjust to live in a lower pH environment. Interestingly, it was mainly the male fish with this expression signature hinting at reproductive consequences as males provide parental care of the nests.

When looking at the actual sequence of these genes and their genetic variation, the authors found evidence of a long-term process of natural selection. The genetic changes, which we call mutations, providing the fish with adaptive advantages for living in an acidified, are located in DNA sequences regulating the expression of the genes. These mutations in regulatory sequences would not impact the fitness of the individuals carrying them when living in an ambient pH environment, but these might allow fine-tuned physiological regulation in a reduced pH environment. Such standing genetic variation in DNA regulatory sequences could provide for the adaptive potential to near-future ocean acidification in fishes.

Moreover, the authors propose an evolutionary mechanism by means this adaptive potential to ocean acidification could be maintained in natural populations of fishes. Fish species tend to occur across wide geographical ranges with different pH. Thus, it is likely that similar to what happens in Common triplefins, the genetic variation allowing for life in slightly reduced or variable pH environments already exist within many fish populations. Highly dispersive larvae of fishes contribute to the flow of this genetic variation among the populations of a species. Hence, it might be expected that the genetic variation in regulatory sequences of gene expression efficiently adjusting the physiological responses to reduced pH will provide the raw material for adaptive natural selection in the near-future under increasing ocean acidification.

"The findings of this study imply that one of the more relevant things in terms of the capacity of the marine species to respond to future changes in their environmental conditions is their current genetic variation. Thus, the assessment of the levels of genetic diversity of different marine species is the most important, and we are currently working on it," said Dr. Natalia Petit-Marty, first author of the paper and Postdoctoral Fellow in the group led by Dr. Celia Schunter at Research Division for Ecology and Biodiversity & Swire Institute of Marine Science, HKU.

"We are very fortunate to get to visit these remote places providing us with a glimpse of how the oceans may look like in the future. To make sure our findings are applicable across different marine ecosystems, we also traveled to CO 2 vents at tropical coral reefs in Papua New Guinea and rocky reefs in the Mediterranean Sea, and will continue our research on the adaptive potential of marine fishes to ocean acidification," added Dr. Celia Schunter, Assistant Professor at Research Division for Ecology and & Swire Institute of Marine Science, HKU.

Explore further Fish sex organs boosted under high CO2

More information: Natalia PetitMarty et al, Natural CO 2 seeps reveal adaptive potential to ocean acidification in fish, Evolutionary Applications (2021). Natalia PetitMarty et al, Natural COseeps reveal adaptive potential to ocean acidification in fish,(2021). DOI: 10.1111/eva.13239
by Vladimir Rozanskij

Failure to define the borders between the two Caucasian countries risks separating Armenia from Iran. Tensions mount between Yerevan and Baku, between Tehran and the Russian and Turkish "peacekeepers". Zarif makes desperate bid to save Rouhani.

Moscow (AsiaNews) - The border crisis between Armenia and Azerbaijan worries Tehran. Iranian Foreign Minister, Mohammad Javar Zarif, visited Baku on 25 May and went to Yerevan the following day to discuss the lack of agreement on the demarcation of borders in the vicinity of Iran. The fact could be a continuous source of problems, forcing the border lines of the Islamic Republic to be redrawn.

Zarif had already visited the two countries in January 2021, when he also went to the capitals of the other two major countries concerned, Moscow and Ankara, as well as the Georgian capital of Tbilisi.

At the time he had asked all parties to revise the November 2020 peace agreement that ended clashes in Nagorno Karabakh, also considering the interests of Iran. The minister had defined the Azerbaijani victory as "the beginning of peaceful and normal relations between all the countries of the region".

But border issues are disproving these optimistic predictions. On the Armenian side, continuous intrusions by the Azerbaijani armed forces on their territory are complained, in order to correct the borders of the Syunik region near the Black Sea. The acting premier in Yerevan, Nikol Pasinyan, defined the actions of Baku "an attack on the territory of Armenia, asking for military help from Russia, as reported yesterday by Nezavisimaja Gazeta.

These incidents remain concerned in Tehran. The chairman of the Parliamentary Commission for Foreign Policy, Mojtaba Zannour, said that Iran will not accept any changes to its borders in the region concerned, let alone admit the presence of military forces even if they are passed off as "peace contingents".

There has been telephone contact on the issue between the foreign ministers of Iran and Turkey, and the issue will be discussed in an upcoming meeting between Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliev and Turkish President Erdogan.

Interviewed by Nezavisimaja Gazeta, a Russian expert from the Middle East, Aleksandr Knjazev, recalled that "presidential elections will be held in Iran on June 18, and the current president Hassan Rouhani is likely to hand over power to his opponents, together with his entire team, including Zarif. A much more conservative group of leaders will probably be chosen in their place.

Experts like Knjazev, Zarif is desperately trying to regain consensus, since foreign policy is one of the most critical points of Rouhani's double mandate, who failed to get Western sanctions lifted, despite the nuclear agreements.

Zarifs visit is unlikely to allow Iran to establish itself as the "third guardian" of the Caucasus, in addition to Russia and Turkey, as the conservatives claim. According to Knjazev, Iranians today regard Azerbaijans Islamic brothers with a certain mistrust, since they are too tied to Turkey, with the risk of favouring a Turkish military presence in the Caspian Sea region, which Tehran would not really like. Furthermore, the Azeris collaborate with too much concern with the Israelis.

On the contrary, Iran has fewer problems with the Armenians, and they want to keep the current border with them, instead of lengthening the Azerbaijani part in what is called the "Zangezur corridor", which would practically separate Iran from the 'Armenia. The parties continue to make very contradictory statements on the matter. It will be the subject of disputes for some time yet.
Illustrative example of the interpretation of the NLPs using Japan as a case study. Credit: Fujimori et al.

With the COP Climate conference in Glasgow only a few months away, the ambitions of the Paris Agreement and the importance of taking action at the national level to reach global climate goals is returning to the spotlight. IIASA researchers and colleagues have proposed a novel systematic and independent scenario framework that could help policymakers assess and compare climate policies and long-term strategies across countries to support coordinated global climate action.

The Paris Agreement defines a long-term temperature goal for international climate policy: "holding the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2C above pre-industrial levels and pursuing efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5C." Its achievement critically depends on actions and policymaking at the regional, national, and subnational level. As part of the Agreement, countries are required to submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and long-term strategies outlining their greenhouse gas emissions reduction efforts at the national scale towards 2030 and 2050 respectively. Currently, national scenarios underpinning long-term strategies are however poorly coordinated and difficult to compare across countries, thus preventing the assessment of individual nations' climate policies.

In a new perspective published in the journal Nature Climate Change, IIASA guest researcher and associate professor of environmental engineering at Kyoto University, Shinichiro Fujimori and colleagues endeavored to address this problem by presenting a systematic and standardized, yet flexible, scenario framework. Starting with projected emission levels of the NDCs for 2030, the framework varies 2050 emissions to explore alternative long-term targets for 2050. Applying the framework to six major Asian countries (China, India, Japan, Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam), for instance, successfully revealed individual challenges in energy system transformation and investment needs in comparable scenarios. According to the researchers, this framework could be a starting point for comprehensive and independent assessments as input to the global stock take over the coming years.

"In the Paris Agreement, there are several mechanisms to ensure that national actions align with global goals. First, parties are required to regularly report on their progress towards implementing their NDCs. While the climate research community has contributed to creating long-term national scenarios, until now, coordination of scenario studies among countries has been limited," Fujimori explains. "Moreover, the revision of national policies are now taking place more frequently than before, which implies that there is a need to develop a comprehensive, comparative, and robust scenario framework to accommodate potential changes in political and societal situations in the future. Given this situation, our proposed national scenario framework is intended to cope with such uncertainty."

The proposed framework comprises a systematic and standardized approach for national scenarios that appropriately covers plausible future ranges of mitigation pathways and enables comparison across countries. The researchers have termed their framework "national long-term pathways"or NLPs for shortwhich could resemble Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) in formulating the ambition and range of climate targets. This approach allows hedging against future national target uncertainties by not specifying a single emissions reduction target, but instead exploring multiple systematic scenarios associated with percentages of emissions reductions in 2050 as a default set.

The framework uses two kinds of scenarios, the first of which is the baseline, which excludes ambitious climate change mitigation policies but includes currently implemented and planned policies. The second kind of scenario is climate scenarios that target between 10% and 100% emissions reductions in 2050 compared with base year emissions, with 10%-point intervals covering the space between them. This can also be translated into intensity targets, such as carbon intensity of gross domestic product (GDP) assumptions.

In addition, the study notes that NDC targets for 2030 can be adopted, but that these may have variations associated with conditional/unconditional/updated targets. Considering the current political situation in which many countries are announcing carbon neutrality targets for target dates other than 2050, the researchers point out that their proposed emissions pathway design can also be applied beyond 2050 and assessed from the timing of net-zero emissions perspective and the required transition towards that goal.

"In the context of a dynamic climate policy environment accompanied by rapid technological and societal development, reevaluating national emissions targets on a regular basis has become ever more important," says IIASA Integrated Assessment and Climate Change Research Group Leader, Volker Krey, a coauthor of the study. "We hope that transparent and independent science-based analysis will help inform the policy debate on setting national targets."

The team is confident that their proposed scenario framework will be useful to policymakers and that it will also contribute to building a research community that explore and update national scenarios more frequently than in the past in order to stimulate and inform the political discussions on ambitious national climate targets across a range of countries.

Explore further Developing countries need to chart their own course to net zero emissions

More information: A framework for national scenarios with varying emission reductions, Nature Climate Change (2021). Journal information: Nature Climate Change A framework for national scenarios with varying emission reductions,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s41558-021-01048-z
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Scientists have used gene technology to understand more about the make-up of the evolution of brassicaspaving the way for bigger and more climate resilient yields from this group of crops that have been grown for thousands of years.

The researchby the University of Yorkgives scientists a new tool that will support the development of new varieties.

The research led to scientists being able to develop an adaptable framework for describing gene content and order across all Brassica species.

Lead author, Professor Ian Bancroft, chair of plant genomics at the Center for Novel Agricultural Products (CNAP), at the Department of Biology said: "The research has helped us understand the trajectory of how genomes evolve in brassicas. We can use this new knowledge, for example, to accelerate the exchange of beneficial genes between Brassica species."

Brassica vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, kale, pak choi and swede, along with brassica oil crops such as oilseed rape, black mustard and mustard rape, belong to a group of six species that share different combinations of three distinct genomes. Genomes determine the characteristics of every living organism.

Professor Bancroft added: "We report for the first time the complete set of genes for a genome aggregated across all of the multiple species in which that genome occurs. "This enabled us to define a new system of names and terms for genes of the brassica crops and provides an example for other groups of species in which genomes are shared, such as wheats.

"We also used the new resource to study, to single gene resolution, examples of the capture of genome segments from related species as an outcome of wide genetic crosses, a traditional approach for the broadening of genetic diversity in crop species."

The research provides an adaptable framework for describing gene content and order across all Brassica species, which will help particularly with evolution studies.

The paper, "Genome structural evolution in Brassica crops," is published in Nature Plants.

Explore further How Chinese cabbage and white cabbage became alike

More information: Genome structural evolution in Brassica crops, Nature Plants (2021). Journal information: Nature Plants Genome structural evolution in Brassica crops,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s41477-021-00928-8
Hawaii Pacific University graduate student Drew McWhirter, left, and Raquel Corniuk, a research technician at the university's Center for Marine Debris Research, pull apart a massive entanglement of ghost nets on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 in Kaneohe, Hawaii. The two are part of a study that is attempting to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in Hawaii back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

"Ghost nets" from unknown origins drift among the Pacific's currents, threatening sea creatures and littering shorelines with the entangled remains of what they kill.

Lost or discarded at sea, sometimes decades ago, this fishing gear continues to wreak havoc on marine life and coral reefs in Hawaii.

Now, researchers are doing detective work to trace this harmful debris back to fisheries and manufacturersand that takes extensive, in-depth analysis on tons of ghost nets.

The biggest concern is that derelict gear keeps killing fish and other wildlife such as endangered Hawaiian monk seals, seabirds and turtles long after it's gone adrift, said Drew McWhirter, a graduate student at Hawaii Pacific University and one of the study's lead researchers.

"These nets bulldoze over our reefs before they hit shore," McWhirter added. "They leave a path of destruction, pulling coral heads out, and can cause a lot of ecological damage."

Ghost nets foul oceans throughout the world, but the Hawaiian Islandswith the Great Pacific Garbage Patch to the east and another gyre of floating trash to the westare an epicenter for marine waste.

Past efforts to identify origins of nets have proven difficult because debris comes from so many countries and nets have few, if any, unique identifying marks or features.

Ghost nets and other debris sit in a shed at Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 in Kaneohe, Hawaii. Researchers are conducting a study that is attempting to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in Hawaii back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

Experts believe many nets are lost accidentally, but boats occasionally ditch nets to avoid prosecution when fishing illegally. Other fishermen cut away portions of damaged nets instead of returning them to shore.

The ghost net study is being supervised by Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research co-director, Jennifer Lynch, a research biologist with the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

"We're going to have a very challenging time ... trying to identify it back to its source," said Lynch. "And if we fail, ... that's going to be increased evidence for policymakers to see the importance of gear marking and potentially bring those kinds of regulations to the front."

For Lynch, it's not about pointing fingers. Rather, she hopes the study, which will be presented to the fishing industry first, will help develop new ways to prevent damage to the marine environment.

Ghost nets and other debris sit in a shed at Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 in Kaneohe, Hawaii. Researchers are conducting a study that is attempting to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in Hawaii back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

"We're doing this study in a very forensic way where we're gathering as much evidence as we possibly can so that we can present the best, most accurate story," Lynch said.

The crew gets ghost nets from three sources: The main Hawaiian Islands, the fishing grounds of the Hawaii longline tuna fleet that often snags netsand the shores of the uninhabited Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, which are part of Papahanaumokuakea National Marine Monument.

An April cleanup expedition to Papahanaumokuakeathe largest protected environment in the United States and a UNESCO World Heritage Sitebrought back nearly 50 tons (45 metric tons) of nets and other lost gear.

In a shed on the university's campus, researchers pull apart bundles of fishing gear, noting the relationships between items. Then samples are taken to a lab for analysis.

Pieces of net and other fishing gear are numbered before being cataloged at Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 in Kaneohe, Hawaii. The two are part of a study that is attempting to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in Hawaii back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

"We only really need a small sample here to really understand how it's constructed," said Raquel Corniuk, a research technician at the university.

Researchers look at about 70 different aspects of each piece of net, including its polymer types. "We look at how it's twisted. Is it twisted versus braided? We are trying to look at how many strands does it have, its twine diameter, mesh stretch size," Corniuk said.

The information is entered into a database, which will help scientists find patterns that could lead to manufacturers and eventually individual fisheries or nations.

The researchers have spent about a year collecting data and hope to have findings peer reviewed and published this year.

Among the ghost gear are fish aggregation devicesor FADsfloating bundles of material fishing vessels leave in the ocean to attract fish. The devices have receivers linked to satellites, but when they drift outside designated fishing areas, they're usually abandoned.

Raquel Corniuk, a research technician at Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research, pulls apart a massive entanglement of ghost nets on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 in Kaneohe, Hawaii. Researchers are conducting a study that is attempting to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in Hawaii back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

Mike Conroy, president of West Coast Fisheries Consultants, works with purse seine and gillnet operators off California. He said FADs are prohibited in U.S. waters and that fishers do everything they can to prevent loss of nets.

"An average one of those nets is going to run the operator somewhere between 150 and 250 grand," he said.

Conroy acknowledged ghost gear is a problem. "These types of research activities will point the finger in the right direction," he said. "I think what you'll see is that West Coast fisheries probably aren't contributing much."

The researchers have already found debris from all corners of the Pacific, including Asian countries and the U.S. West Coast.

Much of the ghost net problem lies with less developed nations that have few fishing regulations and sometimes buy or manufacture low-quality nets, according to a career fisherman who now works for a net manufacturer in Washington state.

Jennifer Lynch, a research scientist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the co-director of Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research, catalogs pieces of ghost nets on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 in Kaneohe, Hawaii. Researchers are conducting a study that will attempt to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in Hawaii back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

"Their products tend to be weaker," said Brian Fujimoto, a sales executive for NET Systems Inc., in Bainbridge Island. "And if you look at the poly netting and ropes that you're finding, they're all very inexpensive stuff."

Fujimoto said his company uses technology, colors and other construction techniques unique to their products, so they're easily identifiable.

Making that an industry standard, he said, is "only going to happen with the more industrialized nations, say for example, the U.S., Canada, Japan."

Daniel Pauly, a marine biologist and professor at the University of British Columbia's Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, said, "We kill fish for fishing and for consumption, but these fish that are killed by lost gear are killed for no reason, not to mention the marine mammal and turtles and other animals that we like."

Raquel Corniuk, a research technician at Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research, stretches out a ghost nets on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 in Kaneohe, Hawaii. Researchers are conducting a study that will attempt to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in Hawaii back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

Jennifer Lynch, a research scientist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology and co-director of Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research, right, and Raquel Corniuk, a research technician at the university, measure a large ghost net on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 in Kaneohe, Hawaii. Researchers are conducting a study that will attempt to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in Hawaii back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

A measuring stick lays among ghost nets at Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 in Kaneohe, Hawaii. Researchers are conducting a study that will attempt to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in Hawaii back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

Hawaii Pacific University master's student Drew McWhirter, foreground, and Raquel Corniuk, a research technician at the university's Center for Marine Debris Research, pull apart a massive entanglement of ghost nets on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 in Kaneohe, Hawaii. The two are part of a study that is attempting to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in Hawaii back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

Waves wash ashore in Waimanalo, Hawaii on Wednesday, May 12, 2021. Researchers at the nearby Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research are conducting a study that will attempt to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in the islands back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

Raquel Corniuk, a research technician at Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research, updates a database with metrics from ghost nets at a lab in Waimanalo, Hawaii on Wednesday, May 12, 2021. Researchers are conducting a study that is attempting to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in Hawaii back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

Pieces of net and other fishing gear are numbered before being cataloged at Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 in Kaneohe, Hawaii. The two are part of a study that is attempting to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in Hawaii back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

Drew McWhirter, a graduate student at Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research, pulls apart a massive entanglement of ghost nets on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 in Kaneohe, Hawaii. Researchers are conducting a study that is attempting to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in Hawaii back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

Raquel Corniuk, a research technician at Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research, counts threads in a piece of rope from a ghost net at a lab in Waimanalo, Hawaii on Wednesday, May 12, 2021. Researchers are conducting a study that is attempting to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in Hawaii back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

Drew McWhirter, a graduate student at Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research, pulls apart a massive entanglement of ghost nets on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 in Kaneohe, Hawaii. Researchers are conducting a study that is attempting to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in Hawaii back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

Waves wash ashore in Waimanalo, Hawaii on Wednesday, May 12, 2021. Researchers at the nearby Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research are conducting a study that will attempt to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in the islands back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

Brian Fujimoto, a sales executive for NET Systems Inc., poses in front of a fishing net his company manufactured in Bainbridge Island, Washington on Thursday, May 20, 2021. Researchers in Hawaii are trying to find the source of ghost fishing nets that wash ashore in Hawaii. Credit: AP Photo/Manuel Valdes

Raquel Corniuk, a research technician at Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research, counts threads in a piece of rope from a ghost net at a lab in Waimanalo, Hawaii on Wednesday, May 12, 2021. Researchers are conducting a study that is attempting to trace derelict fishing gear that washes ashore in Hawaii back to the manufacturers and fisheries that it came from. Credit: AP Photo/Caleb Jones

"Clamping down on this loss, which is too easily accepted, ... is a good thing," added Pauly.

Jonathan Moore, principal assistant secretary of the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs at the U.S. State Department, said last year, "Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, which is sometimes associated with ghost gear, is among the greatest threats to the sustainable use of our shared ocean resource."

"Certainly, gear-marking guidelines and regulations should be a central pillar of all responsible fisheries management operations," he said.

Although U.S. and some international laws require identifying markers on some fishing gear, such as crab pots and buoys, nets are not required to be marked.

Officials with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's fisheries division declined to be interviewed for this story, but said in an email: "NOAA Fisheries is unaware of any regulations that have been, or are being considered, with regard to ghost nets. We continue to work agency-wide on this international marine debris problem."

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
In this May 14, 2021, photo provided by the High Desert Museum, U.S. Forest Service firefighters carry out a prescribed burn on the grounds of the High Desert Museum, near Bend, Oregon. The prescribed burn is part of a massive effort in wildlands across the West to prepare for a fire season that follows the worst one on record. Credit: Kyle Kosma/High Desert Museum via AP

Wearing soot-smudged, fire-resistant clothing and helmets, several wildland firefighters armed with hoes moved through a stand of ponderosa pines as flames tore through the underbrush.

The firefighters weren't there to extinguish the fire. They had started it.

The prescribed burn, ignited this month near the scenic mountain town of Bend, is part of a massive effort in wildlands across the U.S. West to prepare for a fire season that's expected to be even worse than last years record-shattering one.

The U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management have thinned by hand, machines and prescribed burns about 1.8 million acres (728,000 hectares) of forest and brushland since last season, officials from the agencies told The Associated Press. They typically treat some 3 million (1.2 million hectares) acres every year.

All that activity, though, has barely scratched the surface. The federal government owns roughly 640 million acres (260 million hectares) in the U.S. All but 4% of it lies in the West, including Alaska, with some of it unsuitable for prescribed burning.

"All these steps are in the right direction, but the challenge is big and complex," said John Bailey, professor of silviculture and fire management at Oregon State University. "And more needs to be done to even turn the corner."

The efforts face a convergence of bleak forces.

Severe drought has turned forests and grasslands into dry fuels, ready to ignite from a careless camper or a lightning strike. More people are building in areas bordering wildlands, expanding the so-called wildland-urban interface, an area where wildfires impact people the most. Invasive, highly flammable vegetation is spreading uncontrolled across the West.

In this May 14, 2021, photo provided by the High Desert Museum, U.S. Forest Service firefighters carry out a prescribed burn on the grounds of the High Desert Museum, near Bend, Oregon. The prescribed burn is part of a massive effort in wildlands across the West to prepare for a fire season that follows the worst one on record. Credit: Heidi Hagemeier/High Desert Museum via AP

"I'm seeing probably the worst combination of conditions in my lifetime," said Derrick DeGroot, a county commissioner in southern Oregon's Klamath County. "We have an enormous fuel load in the forests, and we are looking at a drought unlike we've seen probably in the last 115 years."

Asked how worried he is about the 2021 fire season, DeGroot said: "On a scale of 1 to 10, I'm a 12. Nothing looks good."

In other prevention measures in the West, utility companies are removing vegetation around power lines and are ready to impose blackouts when those lines threaten to spark a fire.

Armies of firefighters are being beefed up. And communities are offering incentives for residents to make their own properties fire-resistant.

Still, much work remains to change the region's trajectory with fire, particularly in two key areas, said Scott Stephens, professor of wildland fire science at the University of California, Berkeley.

"One is getting people better prepared for the inevitability of fire in areas like the wildland-urban interface. That includes new construction," he said. "And the second is getting our ecosystems better prepared for climate change and fire impacts."

On the local level, individuals and communities need to create defensible spaces and evacuation plans, he said. On the government level, more resources need to go toward managing forests.

"I think we've got one to two decades," Stephens said. "If we don't do this in earnest, we're frankly just going to be watching the forest change right in front of our eyes from fire, climate change, drought, insects, things of that nature."

In this May 14, 2021, photo provided by the High Desert Museum, U.S. Forest Service firefighters carry out a prescribed burn on the grounds of the High Desert Museum, near Bend, Oregon. The prescribed burn is part of a massive effort in wildlands across the West to prepare for a fire season that follows the worst one on record. Credit: Kyle Kosma/High Desert Museum via AP

Part of the issue is that increasing wildfire resilience often requires trade-offs, said Erica Fleishman, professor at Oregon State University's College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences.

Cities or states could require defensible spaces around homes. Building codes could call for fire-resistant materials. That would drive up construction costs but also mean homes would be less likely to burn and need rebuilding, she said.

"The insurance industry and the building industry and communities and lawmakers are all going to need to have the will to create these changes," she said.

Fleishman also believes more prescribed fires could be conducted in the wildland-urban interface, but said "society is risk averse."

"Right now, there's not, in many cases, a whole lot of will to do it," she said.

Prescribed burns target vegetation that carries flames into forest canopies, where they can explode into massive wildfires.

Planning and preparing for them can take two to five years. And carrying them out is a never-ending task, said Jessica Gardetto, spokeswoman for the National Interagency Fire Center, in Boise, Idaho.

While targeting one forest, other forests continue to grow, creating "this vast buildup across the landscape," she said.

In this Sept. 11, 2020 file photo firefighters with Vandenberg Air Force Base light a back burn to help control the Dolan Fire at Limekiln State Park in Big Sur, Calif. Crews across the west are lighting controlled burns and taking other steps to prepare for the 2021 fire season that follows the worst one on record. Prescribed burning gets rid of vegetation that can send flames into the forest canopy, where fire can spread easily, and makes the forest more fire resilient. Credit: AP Photo/Nic Coury, File

Besides overgrown forests, the West faces a newer threat: cheatgrass, which grows prolifically after a wildfire and becomes incredibly flammable.

Gardetto said trying to get rid of the invasive grass is like the endless toil of Sisyphus, the Greek mythological figure who was forced to roll a boulder up a hill, only for it to roll down as it neared the top, over and over again.

After a fire is put out, the first thing to come back is cheatgrass.

"It starts this horrible cycle that is really difficult to combat," she said.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom and U.S. Forest Service Chief Vicki Christiansen signed an agreement last August committing the state and the federal agency to scale up treatment of forest and wildlands to 1 million acres (405,000 hectares) annually by 2025.

They have a long way to reach that goal. Cal Fire, a state agency responsible for protecting over 31 million acres (12.5 million hectares) of California's privately owned wildlands, treated some 20,000 acres (8,100 hectares) with prescribed fire and thinning from last summer through March.

Meanwhile, California increased the number of seasonal firefighters by almost 50%, according to Lynne Tolmachoff, spokeswoman for Cal Fire.

With the fire season getting longer each year, Colorado lawmakers last spring allocated about $3 million to increase staffing at the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control, said Mike Morgan, its director.

In this Sept. 11, 2020, file photo, firefighters light a controlled burn along Nacimiento-Fergusson Road to help contain the Dolan Fire near Big Sur, Calif. Crews across the west are lighting controlled burns and taking other steps to prepare for the 2021 fire season that follows the worst one on record. Prescribed burning gets rid of vegetation that can send flames into the forest canopy, where fire can spread easily, and makes the forest more fire resilient. Credit: AP Photo/Nic Coury, File

"Historically, wildland firefighters were college students. They'd get out of school on Memorial Day, they'd go fight fire, and they'd go back to school on Labor Day," Morgan said. "Well, now we're having fires every month of the year, and so we need firefighters year-round."

The Bureau of Land Management is transforming its seasonal firefighting force to fulltime with a $13 million budget increase, Gardetto said.

Despite all these efforts, warnings are going out telling people to be ready for the worst.

The Oregon Office of Emergency Management advised residents on Monday to have a bag packed and have an evacuation plan.

"Abnormally dry conditions and pre-season fires on the landscape are causing concern for the 2021 wildfire season," the agency said. "Now is the time for Oregonians to prepare themselves, their families and their homes for wildfire."

Explore further Fire officials aim to squelch blazes fast, avoid megafires

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

There is about a 40% chance of the annual average global temperature temporarily reaching 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels in at least one of the next five yearsand these odds are increasing with time, according to a new climate update issued by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

There is a 90% likelihood of at least one year between 2021-2025 becoming the warmest on record, which would dislodge 2016 from the top ranking, according to the Global Annual to Decadal Climate Update, produced by the United Kingdom's Met Office, the WMO lead center for such predictions.

Over 2021-2025, high-latitude regions and the Sahel are likely to be wetter and there is an increased chance of more tropical cyclones in the Atlantic compared to the recent past (defined as the 1981-2010 average).

The annual update harnesses the expertise of internationally acclaimed climate scientists and the best prediction systems from leading climate centers around the world to produce actionable information for decision-makers.

"These are more than just statistics," said WMO Secretary-General Prof. Petteri Taalas. "Increasing temperatures mean more melting ice, higher sea levels, more heatwaves and other extreme weather, and greater impacts on food security, health, the environment and sustainable development," he said.

"This study showswith a high level of scientific skillthat we are getting measurably and inexorably closer to the lower target of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. It is yet another wakeup call that the world needs to fast-track commitments to slash greenhouse gas emissions and achieve carbon neutrality," said Prof. Taalas. "Technological advances now make it possible to track greenhouse gas emissions back to their sources as a means of precisely targeting reduction efforts," he noted.

"It is also underlines the need for climate adaptation. Only half of 193 WMO Members have state of the art early warning services. Countries should continue to develop the services that will be needed to support adaptation in climate-sensitive sectorssuch as health, water, agriculture and renewable energyand promote early warning systems that reduce the adverse impacts of extreme events. Besides limitations in early warning services we are having severe gaps in weather observations especially in Africa and island states. This has a major negative impact on the accuracy if the early warnings in those areas and globally. We need to invest in the basic networks as well." he concluded.

In 2020one of the three warmest years on recordthe global average temperature was 1.2 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial baseline, according to the WMO's report on the State of the Global Climate 2020, released in April. It highlighted the acceleration in climate change indicators like rising sea levels, melting sea ice, and extreme weather, as well as worsening impacts on socio-economic development.

The Global Annual to Decadal Climate Update confirms that trend. In the coming five years, the annual mean global temperature is likely to be at least 1 degrees Celsius warmerwithin the range 0.9 degrees Celsius1.8 degrees Celsiusthan preindustrial levels.

The chance of temporarily reaching 1.5 degrees Celsius has roughly doubled compared to last year's predictions. This is mainly due to using an improved temperature dataset to estimate the baseline rather than sudden changes in climate indicators. It is very unlikely (10%) that the 5 year mean annual global temperature for the entire 2021-2025 period will be 1.5 degrees Celsius warmer than preindustrial levels, according to the climate update.

Professor Adam Scaife is the head of seasonal to decadal prediction at the Met Office. Commenting on the update, he said: "Assessing the increase in global temperature in the context of climate change refers to the long-term global average temperature, not to the averages for individual years or months. Nevertheless, a temporary exceedance of the 1.5 degree level may already be seen in the next few years."

The Paris Agreement seeks to keep global temperature rise this century well below 2 degrees Celsius degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase even further to 1.5 degrees Celsius. National commitments to cut emissions, known as nationally determined contributions, currently fall far short of what is needed to achieve this target.

The year 2021, and the crucial climate change negotiations, COP26, in November, have been widely described as a "make-or-break" chance to prevent climate change spiraling ever more out of control. Tackling climate change is high on the agenda of the G-7 Leaders Summit hosted by the United Kingdom from 11-13 June.

The Global Annual to Decadal Climate Update takes into account natural variations as well as human influences on climate to provide the best possible forecasts of temperature, rainfall, wind patterns and other variables for the coming five years. The forecast models do not take into consideration changes in emissions of greenhouse gases and aerosols as a result of the coronavirus lockdown, the impacts of which on atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases have been small to date, owing to the long lifetimes of many of these gases.

With the UK's Met Office acting as lead center, climate prediction groups from Spain, Germany, Canada, China, U.S., Japan, Australia, Sweden, Norway and Denmark contributed new predictions this year. Combining forecasts from climate prediction centers worldwide enables a higher quality product than what can be obtained from any single source.

The development of near-term prediction capability was driven by the WMO co-sponsored World Climate Research Program, which declared one of its overarching Grand Challenges is to support research and development to improve multi-year to decadal climate predictions and their utility to decision makers.

Comprehensive Assessment Reports about the state of scientific, technical and socio-economic knowledge on climate change, its impacts and future risks, and options for reducing the rate at which climate change is taking place are the responsibility of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which also issued a Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Provided by World Meteorological Organization
Credit: Image data: NASA/JPL-Caltech/SwRI/MSSS. Image processing by Kevin M. Gill CC BY

During its 33rd low pass over the cloud tops of Jupiter on April 15, 2021, NASA's Juno spacecraft captured the intriguing evolution of a feature in the giant planet's atmosphere known as "Clyde's Spot."

The feature is informally named for amateur astronomer Clyde Foster of Centurion, South Africa, who discovered it in 2020 using his own 14-inch telescope. On June 2, 2020, just two days after Foster's initial discovery, Juno provided detailed observations of Clyde's Spot (upper image), which scientists determined was a plume of cloud material erupting above the top layers of the Jovian atmosphere just southeast of Jupiter's Great Red Spot, which is currently about 1.3 times as wide as Earth. These powerful convective outbreaks occasionally occur in this latitude band, known as the South Temperate Belt. The initial plume subsided quickly, and within a few weeks it was seen as a dark spot.

Many features in Jupiter's highly dynamic atmosphere are short lived, but the April 2021 observation from the JunoCam instrument (lower image) revealed that nearly one year after its discovery, the remnant of Clyde's Spot had not only drifted away from the Great Red Spot but had also developed into a complex structure that scientists call a folded filamentary region. This region is twice as big in latitude and three times as big in longitude as the original spot, and has the potential to persist for an extended period of time.

The upper image was taken on June 2, 2020, around 3:56 a.m. when the spacecraft was about 28,000 miles (45,000 kilometers) from Jupiter's cloud tops. The lower image was taken on April 15, 2021, at 4:58 p.m. PDT (7:58 p.m. EDT). At the time, the spacecraft was about 16,800 miles (27,000 kilometers) from Jupiter's cloud tops, at a latitude of about 30 degrees South. Another citizen scientist, Kevin M. Gill, processed both images from raw JunoCam data.

More information: JunoCam's raw images are available for the public to peruse and process into image products at JunoCam's raw images are available for the public to peruse and process into image products at missionjuno.swri.edu/junocam/processing . More information about NASA citizen science can be found at science.nasa.gov/citizenscience and www.nasa.gov/solve/opportunities/citizenscience More information about Juno is at www.nasa.gov/juno and missionjuno.swri.edu. For more about this finding and other science results, see www.missionjuno.swri.edu/science-findings.
Eruption: Mount Nyiragongo and Lake Kivu last Saturday.

Orders on Thursday to evacuate Goma, a city lying in the shadow of DR Congo's Mount Nyiragongo volcano, have shed light on a rare but potentially catastrophic riska "limnic eruption," when volcanic activity combined with a deep lake can spew out lethal, suffocating gas.

The phenomenon first came to the world's attention in August 1984, when 37 people mysteriously died at Lake Monoun in western Cameroon.

Scientists found that dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2) gas in the depths of the lake had erupted, creating invisible clouds at the surface that were borne by winds into homes and fields, snuffing out life.

Two years later, more than 1,700 people and thousands of cattle died in Lake Nyos, also in Cameroon, strengthening the belief that earthquakes and volcanic activity can trigger these unusual events.

More than 600,000 people live in Goma, although the region's population is around two million, in addition to more than 90,000 people who live across the border in the Rwandan city of Gisenyi.

Both cities lie on the northeastern shore of Lake Kivu, which is dominated by Nyiragongo, a strato-volcano nearly 3,500 metres (11,500 feet) high that straddles the East African Rift tectonic divide.

The much-feared volcano roared back into life on Saturday, spewing two rivers of lava over the next day that have claimed 32 lives and left around 20,000 homeless.

This was followed by hundreds of aftershocks, some of them the equivalent of small earthquakes, that have collapsed or destroyed several buildings, ripped cracks in the ground and terrified the population.

Map of DR Congo locating the Mount Nyiragongo volcano.

Disaster scenario

The evacuation order comes on the heels of a warning by the Goma Volcano Observatory (OVG), which monitors the pulse of Nyiragongo and the Nyamuragira volcano, 13 kilometres (nine miles) away.

In a technical note seen by AFP, the OVG said it saw worrying signs of activity by Nyiragongo that pointed to three potential outcomes.

In the first two scenarios, Nyiragongo would erupt again, sending renewed lava flows southwards towards Goma and Gisenyi, destroying buildings in their path before reaching Lake Kivu.

In both cases, the quantity of lava likely to enter the lake would not be enough to raise its deep-water temperature by at least one degrees Celsius (1.8 degrees Fahrenheit)a key condition for a limnic eruption.

But in the worst-case scenario, lava flows from Nyiragongo would combine with volcanic activity under the floor of the lake.

This activity could take the form of a "fissural or phreato-magmatic eruption under the lake and/or a large earthquake of 6.5 or 7 magnitude," the OVG said.

In this scenario, "a limnic eruption would take place and dissolved gas in the lake's deep water would rise to the surface, especially CO2, asphyxiating all living beings around Lake Kivu on the Congolese and Rwandan side."

"There would be thousands of deaths," the OVG said, spelling out the need for resources to carry out an "urgent exploration" of Lake Kivu.

A satellite image released on May 25 by Maxar Technologies gives a bird's-eye view of the volcano before its eruption.

Volcanic region

The OVG also cautioned against the use of rainwater for drinking or washing food, given the ashfall from the volcano.

Six volcanoes dot the Goma region, dominated by Nyiragongo, which is 3,470 metres (11,400 feet) high, and Nyamuragira, 3,058 metres.

Nyiragongo last erupted on January 17, 2002, killing more than 100 people and covering almost all of the eastern part of Goma with lava, including half of the airport's landing strip.

Its deadliest eruption was in 1977, when more than 600 people died.

Nyamuragira is also highly active, with its last major eruption a decade ago.

Explore further Volcano aftershocks rattle DR Congo city as death toll rises

 2021 AFP
A panorama of the Galactic Center builds on previous surveys from Chandra and other telescopes. This latest version expands Chandra's high-energy view farther above and below the plane of the galaxy - that is, the disk where most of the galaxy's stars reside - than previous imaging campaigns. In the first two images, X-rays from Chandra are orange, green, and purple, showing different X-ray energies, and the radio data from MeerKAT are gray. Credit: X-ray: NASA/CXC/UMass/Q.D. Wang; Radio: NRF/SARAO/MeerKAT

Threads of superheated gas and magnetic fields are weaving a tapestry of energy at the center of the Milky Way galaxy. A new image of this new cosmic masterpiece was made using a giant mosaic of data from NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory and the MeerKAT radio telescope in South Africa.

The new panorama of the Galactic Center builds on previous surveys from Chandra and other telescopes. This latest version expands Chandra's high-energy view farther above and below the plane of the Galaxythat is, the disk where most of the Galaxy's stars residethan previous imaging campaigns. In the image featured in our main graphic, X-rays from Chandra are orange, green, blue and purple, showing different X-ray energies, and the radio data from MeerKAT are shown in lilac and gray. The main features in the image are shown in a labeled version.

One thread is particularly intriguing because it has X-ray and radio emission intertwined. It points perpendicular to the plane of the galaxy and is about 20 light-years long but only one-hundredth that size in width.

A new study of the X-ray and radio properties of this thread by Q. Daniel Wang of the University of Massachusetts at Amherst suggests these features are bound together by thin strips of magnetic fields. This is similar to what was observed in a previously studied thread. (Both threads are labeled in the image. The newly studied one is in the lower left and is much farther away from the plane of the Galaxy.) Such strips may have formed when magnetic fields aligned in different directions, collided, and became twisted around each other in a process called magnetic reconnection. This is similar to the phenomenon that drives energetic particles away from the Sun and is responsible for the space weather that sometimes affects Earth.

A detailed study of these threads teaches us more about the Galactic space weather astronomers have witnessed throughout the region. This weather is driven by volatile phenomena such as supernova explosions, close-quartered stars blowing off hot gas, and outbursts of matter from regions near Sagittarius A*, our Galaxy's supermassive black hole.

In addition to the threads, the new panorama reveals other wonders in the Galactic Center. For example, Wang's paper reports large plumes of hot gas, which extend for about 700 light-years above and below the plane of the galaxy, seen here in greater detail than ever before. (They are much smaller than the Fermi Bubbles which extend for about 25,000 light-years above and below the plane of the galaxy.) These plumes may represent galactic-scale outflows, analogous to the particles driven away from the Sun. The gas is likely heated by supernova explosions and many recent magnetic reconnections occurring near the center of the galaxy. Such reconnection events in the Galaxy are normally not sufficiently energetic to be detected in X-rays, except for the most energetic ones at the center of the Galaxy, where the interstellar magnetic field is much stronger.

This version of the image highlights several key features of this new Galactic Center survey. The threads are labeled with red rectangles in the image, while X-rays reflected from dust around bright X-ray sources (green circles), Sagittarius A*. In purple circles and ellipses, the Arches and Quintuplet Clusters, DB00-58 and DB00-6, 1E 1743.1-28.43, the Cold Gas Cloud and Sagittarius C are outlined. Credit: X-ray: NASA/CXC/UMass/Q.D. Wang; Radio: NRF/SARAO/MeerKAT

Magnetic reconnection events may play a major role in heating the gas existing between stars (the interstellar medium). This process may also be responsible for accelerating particles to produce cosmic rays like those observed on Earth and driving turbulence in the interstellar medium that triggers new generations of star birth.

The images shows single (broadband) colors, with Chandra X-ray data in pink and MeerKat radio data, a radio telescope in South Africa, in blue. Credit: X-ray: NASA/CXC/UMass/Q.D. Wang; Radio: NRF/SARAO/MeerKAT

The image shows that the magnetic threads tend to occur at the outer boundaries of the large plumes of hot gas. This suggests that the gas in the plumes is driving magnetic fields that collide to create the threads.

The paper by Wang describing these results appears in the June issue of the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.

Explore further Astronomer reveals never-before-seen detail of the center of our galaxy

More information: Q. Daniel Wang. Chandra large-scale mapping of the Galactic center: Probing high-energy structures around the central molecular zone. arXiv:2010.02932 [astro-ph.HE] Journal information: Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society Q. Daniel Wang. Chandra large-scale mapping of the Galactic center: Probing high-energy structures around the central molecular zone. arXiv:2010.02932 [astro-ph.HE] arxiv.org/abs/2010.02932
Research group of the University of Cordoba. Credit: University of Cordoba

A research group at the University of Cordoba evaluated the commercial mixture formulated in a laboratory and the tank-based mixture of two herbicides to determine which method is more effective in terms of weed control and environmental impact.

In 2017 the company Nufarm Europe proposed to the Higher Technical School of Agricultural and Forestry Engineering (ETSIAM) at the UCO a study of the results of two products having a significant agronomic impact: the herbicides glyphosate and 2,4-D (synthetic auxin). After three years of research, they concluded that the commercial mix produced in the company's laboratories is more effective than manual mixes produced in tanks.

To do this, they used in vivo techniques (tests with greenhouse plants) and in vitro (biochemical tests) on two different broad-leaved plants that are difficult to control due to their natural resistance to and tolerance of glyphosate. In this regard, Conyzacanadensis and Epilobiumciliatum, gathered in Spanish and Chilean olive groves, respectively, were analyzed. "The objective was to determine the effectiveness of the formulated mixture vs the tank mixture with respect to weed control, environmental impact and application cost," explained Professor Rafael De Prado, with the UCO.

Glyphosate and 2,4-D are two herbicides widely used to combat broad-leaved weeds and unwanted grasses in fields. Glyphosate is characterized by its strong absorption into the soil, rapid biodegradation, and lower toxicity. Its predominance in the world pesticide market is mostly due to its use on crops like rapeseed, cotton, corn and soybeans, especially in the Western Hemisphere and in Mediterranean Europe, on perennial crops (olive groves, vineyards, and almond groves). Along this line, the study by the University of Cordoba found that the commercial mixture formulated in laboratories of the herbicides glyphosate and 2,4-D is more effective and has a lower environmental impact than manual mixing performed in tanks by people, sometimes without sufficient training.

The project was carried out both in the field, with the help of the Autonomous University of Chapingo (Mexico), the Federal University of Sao Carlos (Brazil), the MAIBA-INTA, Argentina, and the ETSIAM, where the lab studies were conducted. The UCO research team, together with the three Latin American universities, concluded that environmental and economic risks could be reduced, and effectiveness controlling these difficult-to-control weeds could be boosted 10-20% using glyphosate.

More information: Candelario Palma-Bautista et al, Comparison of premix glyphosate and 2,4-D formulation and direct tank mixture for control of Conyza canadensis and Epilobium ciliatum, Environmental Pollution (2021). Journal information: Environmental Pollution Candelario Palma-Bautista et al, Comparison of premix glyphosate and 2,4-D formulation and direct tank mixture for control of Conyza canadensis and Epilobium ciliatum,(2021). DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117013
Samantha Maltais, of New Bedford, Mass., an incoming Harvard Law student, stands for a photograph, Tuesday, May 25, 2021, in New Bedford. When Maltais steps onto Harvard's campus this fall, she'll become the first member of the Aquinnah Wampanoag tribe to attend its prestigious law school. "Coming from a tribal community in its backyard, I'm hyper aware of Harvard's impact," said Maltais, the 24-year-old daughter of her tribe's chairwoman. Credit: AP Photo/Steven Senne

When Samantha Maltais steps onto Harvard's campus this fall, she'll become the first member of the Aquinnah Wampanoag tribe to attend its prestigious law school. It's a "full-circle moment" for the university and the Martha's Vineyard tribe, she says.

More than 350 years ago, Caleb Cheeshahteaumuck, an Aquinnah Wampanoag man, became the first Native American to graduate from the Cambridge, Massachusetts, universitythe product of its 1650 charter calling for the education of "English and Indian youth of this country."

"Coming from a tribal community in its backyard, I'm hyper aware of Harvard's impact," said Maltais, the 24-year-old daughter of her tribe's chairwoman. "It's a symbol of New England's colonial past, this tool of assimilation that pushed Native Americans into the background in their own homelands."

Maltais will arrive on campus at a time when Native American tribes, students and faculty are pushing the Ivy League institution and other colleges to do more for Indigenous communities to atone for past wrongs, much in the way states, municipalities and universities are weighing and, in some cases, already providing reparations for slavery and discrimination against Black people.

In Minnesota, 11 tribes have called on the state university system to return some of the lands taken from tribes, provide tuition waivers to Native American students and increase the number of Native American faculty, among other demands.

Luke Bastian, a 22-year-old Navajo student from Phoenix, stands for a photograph, Thursday, May 13, 2021, on the campus of Massachusetts Institute of Technology, in Cambridge, Mass. Bastian says he and other students presented their class projects to MIT's president earlier this month in the hopes of convincing the institution to create a Native American studies program. Credit: AP Photo/Steven Senne

Tadd Johnson, the University of Minnesota's director of tribal relations and a Chippewa tribe member, said the university will establish a "truth and reconciliation" process to document the historical wrongs and determine ways to make amends.

"We're listening," he said. "We're acting on virtually everything that has been thrown at us."

Meanwhile in Colorado, state lawmakers are weighing legislation to grant in-state tuition to students from certain federally recognized tribes.

And in California, Native American students want tuition waivers and other tangible restitution, after most state schools have issued statements acknowledging their fraught history with tribal land, according to Tori McConnell, a 21-year-old member of the Yurok Tribe who graduates from the University of California, Davis in June.

An image of a Native American, right, is featured in the artwork of Johnston Gate, Harvard University's first and largest gate heading to the campus, in Cambridge, Mass., Sunday, May 23, 2021. Some 350 years ago, Caleb Cheeshahteaumuck, an Aquinnah Wampanoag man, became the first Native American to graduate from the university, the product of Harvard's chartered mission to educate "English and Indian youths of this country." Credit: AP Photo/Steven Senne

"It's only right that they do these things," she said. "Actions speak louder than words."

Ryan King, a university spokesperson, said officials are "working diligently" to continue supporting Native students and tribal communities. He cited the creation of an advisory council to the university president that includes tribal leaders and scholars, among other recent efforts.

Many American universities are a product of the Morrill Act, a law signed by President Abraham Lincoln in 1862 that funded the creation of public colleges through federal land sales. But an investigation by High Country News last year suggested nearly 11 million acres designated for so-called land grant colleges were actually taken from roughly 250 tribes.

At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology near Harvard, Native American students this past semester dug into the renowned school's Native American legacy, including how it continues to benefit from its status as one of the nation's original land grant colleges.

Samantha Maltais, of New Bedford, Mass., an incoming Harvard Law student, stands for a photograph, Tuesday, May 25, 2021, in New Bedford. When Maltais steps onto Harvard's campus this fall, she'll become the first member of the Aquinnah Wampanoag tribe to attend its prestigious law school. "Coming from a tribal community in its backyard, I'm hyper aware of Harvard's impact," said Maltais, the 24-year-old daughter of her tribe's chairwoman. Credit: AP Photo/Steven Senne

Luke Bastian, a 22-year-old Navajo student from Phoenix, says he and other students presented their class projects to MIT's president earlier this month as they urge the institution to create a Native American studies program.

University officials say conversations with Native students are ongoing and Bastian is optimistic they'll make progress. Students have already successfully lobbied for a designated campus space for Native students and convinced MIT to drop Columbus Day in favor of celebrating Indigenous People's Day, he said.

Some universities have taken laudable steps in recent years to prioritize the needs of Native students, say Indigenous community advocates.

Colorado State University offers the in-state tuition rate to students from any federally or state recognized tribe. And South Dakota State University uses private donations to provide scholarships to local tribal members and revenue from the college's land grant trust to enhance Native American programming, research and other efforts.

An image of a Native American is featured in the artwork of Johnston Gate, Harvard University's first and largest gate heading to the campus, in Cambridge, Mass., Sunday, May 23, 2021. Some 350 years ago, Caleb Cheeshahteaumuck, an Aquinnah Wampanoag man, became the first Native American to graduate from the university, the product of Harvard's chartered mission to educate "English and Indian youths of this country." Credit: AP Photo/Steven Senne

"We can't change the past, but we can change the future for these young people," says Barry Dunn, the university's president and a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe who launched the Wokini Initiative in 2017.

The call for colleges to do more comes at a critical time, as the coronavirus pandemic has exacerbated higher education challenges for Native students, who already had the lowest college graduation rates in the country, said Cheryl Crazy Bull, president of the American Indian College Fund, which awarded Maltais a full scholarship to Harvard Law.

During the pandemic, Native students experienced the sharpest college enrollment decline of any racial or ethnic group, as economic hardships, health disparities and the challenges of remote learning in isolated tribal communities forced many students to quit school, said Crazy Bull.

At Harvard, there's concern that Native students are being asked to take temporary leave from campus due to poor grades at rates higher than those of the overall student population, according to Emily Van Dyke, president of Harvard's Native American alumni group.

Samantha Maltais, of New Bedford, Mass., an incoming Harvard Law student, stands for a photograph, Tuesday, May 25, 2021, in New Bedford. When Maltais steps onto Harvard's campus this fall, she'll become the first member of the Aquinnah Wampanoag tribe to attend its prestigious law school. "Coming from a tribal community in its backyard, I'm hyper aware of Harvard's impact," said Maltais, the 24-year-old daughter of her tribe's chairwoman. Credit: AP Photo/Steven Senne

That suggests Native students are struggling to adjust once they arrive on campus, said the 39-year-old Seattle resident and member of the Siksika Nation in Canada. The number of Native students enrolled in the school of more than 6,700 undergraduates has dropped in recent years, from 45 in the 2009-2010 school year to 16 in 2019-2020, according to university data.

Students and alumni are also pushing Harvard to formally acknowledge that it stands on land once inhabited by Indigenous peoples, Van Dyke said. It's a basic, initial step many colleges have taken, including MIT and the University of California, Davis.

"We're nowhere near where other colleges are at," Van Dyke said.

Harvard spokespeople declined to comment on the concerns, but Joseph Gone, an anthropology professor who heads the school's Native American program, said the university is in preliminary talks with local tribes to develop a land acknowledgement statement.

Samantha Maltais, of New Bedford, Mass., an incoming Harvard Law student, stands for a photograph, Tuesday, May 25, 2021, in New Bedford. When Maltais steps onto Harvard's campus this fall, she'll become the first member of the Aquinnah Wampanoag tribe to attend its prestigious law school. "Coming from a tribal community in its backyard, I'm hyper aware of Harvard's impact," said Maltais, the 24-year-old daughter of her tribe's chairwoman. Credit: AP Photo/Steven Senne

Luke Bastian, a 22-year-old Navajo student from Phoenix, stands for a photograph Thursday, May 13, 2021, on the campus of Massachusetts Institute of Technology, in Cambridge, Mass. Bastian says he and other students presented their class projects to MIT's president earlier this month in the hopes of convincing the institution to create a Native American studies program. Credit: AP Photo/Steven Senne

Luke Bastian, a 22-year-old Navajo student from Phoenix, stands for a photograph Thursday, May 13, 2021, on the campus of Massachusetts Institute of Technology, in Cambridge, Mass. Bastian says he and other students presented their class projects to MIT's president earlier this month in the hopes of convincing the institution to create a Native American studies program. Credit: AP Photo/Steven Senne

A member of the Gros Ventre Tribe in Montana, Gone also argues Harvard has made strides since his days as an undergraduate in the 1990s. He's one of three tenured Native American professors and roughly 10 Native American courses are now offered each semester.

The school's famous Peabody Museum, meanwhile, is also working to repatriate scores of artifacts to Native American tribes, Gone said, though some Native American groups have recently criticized the process.

For her part, Maltais says Harvard and other schools should ensure Native students coming from remote tribal communities acclimate to college life by investing more in student groups, mentorship programs, counseling and other support services.

The Dartmouth graduate, who recently served in the Peace Corps in Tonga, also supports the idea of free or discounted tuition for Native students, but stresses that shouldn't be the only solution.

"Not everyone needs a fancy degree," she said. "Sometimes the only reparation for land is land."

Explore further Black and Native American students disciplined disproportionately, study finds

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Secretary for Security John Lee warns Citibank and HSBC, where the pro-democracy media mogul has bank accounts. Hong Kong police recently froze US$ 64 million in assets that belong to Lai. Hong Kongs national security law might drive away foreign investors.

Hong Kong (AsiaNews)  Hong Kongs Secretary for Security John Lee wrote to the Hong Kong branches of Citibank and HSBC, telling them not to deal with Jimmy Lai's bank accounts; otherwise, their top officials could be jailed, Reuters reported today.

The news agency said that it viewed the letters sent to the pro-democracy media mogul and local branches of HSBC and Citibank.

Lai has been in prison for months over his participation in two unauthorised demonstrations in August 2019 and is on trial for threatening national security.

The bank ban covers disposal or conversion, using Lais assets as collateral or transferring them in or out of Hong Kong.

Citibank noted that the it is required to comply with all applicable laws in the countries where it operates, whilst HSBC has not yet commented.

Lee's office informed Lai and the two banks after Hong Kongs police used the national security law to freeze HK$ 500 million (US$ 64 million) in assets belonging to Lai on 14 May, including his 70 per cent share of Next Digital.

Prosecutors accuse Lai of illegally subletting some public space destined for his financial holding company, which owns the anti-establishment Apple Daily newspaper.

This is the first time that local authorities have used the security law to target a publicly traded group.

Observers note that if Lai cannot move funds held in other countries to Hong Kong, Next Digital's activities are in danger. Yesterday the group said that without new financial injections it has enough capital to operate 18 months.

According to private bankers and corporate law lawyers in the former British colony, the use of the security law to sanction top banking and financial institutions risks discouraging foreign investment.

The Lai case is undermining investor confidence, forcing many to diversify their risks by placing their wealth elsewhere than in Hong Kong.
Part of the resonant inelastic x-ray scattering (RIXS) instrument at Diamond Light Source (UK) that was used to uncover secrets of the worlds thinnest superconductor. Credit: Diamond Light Source

Physicists from across three continents report the first experimental evidence to explain the unusual electronic behavior behind the world's thinnest superconductor, a material with myriad applications because it conducts electricity extremely efficiently. In this case the superconductor is only an atomic layer thick.

The work, led by an MIT professor and a physicist at Brookhaven National Laboratory, was possible thanks to new instrumentation available at only a few facilities in the world. The resulting data could help guide the development of better superconductors. These in turn could transform the fields of medical diagnostics, quantum computing, and energy transport, which all use superconductors.

The subject of the work belongs to an exciting class of superconductors that become superconducting at temperatures an order of magnitude higher than their conventional counterparts, making them easier to use in applications. Conventional superconductors only work at temperatures around 10 Kelvin, or -442 Fahrenheit.

These so-called high-temperature superconductors, however, are still not fully understood. "Their microscopic excitations and dynamics are essential to understanding superconductivity, yet after 30 years of research, many questions are still very much open," says Riccardo Comin, the Class of 1947 Career Development Assistant Professor of Physics at MIT. The new work, which is reported in the May 25, 2021 issue of Nature Communications, helps answer those questions.

Jonathan Pelliciari, an assistant physicist at Brookhaven National Laboratory, with part of the resonant inelastic x-ray scattering (RIXS) instrument at BNL. Pelliciari is lead author of a study that used RIXS to uncover secrets of the worlds thinnest superconductor. He was an MIT postdoctoral fellow when the work was conducted. Credit: Brookhaven National Laboratory

World's Thinnest Superconductor

In 2015 scientists discovered a new kind of high-temperature superconductor: a sheet of iron selenide only one atomic layer thick capable of superconducting at 65 Kelvin. In contrast, bulk samples of the same material superconduct at a much lower temperature (8 Kelvin). The discovery "sparked an investigative flurry to decode the secrets of the world's thinnest superconductor," says Comin, who is also affiliated with MIT's Materials Research Laboratory.

In a regular metal, electrons behave much like individual people dancing in a room. In a superconducting metal, the electrons move in pairs, like couples at a dance. "And all these pairs are moving in unison, as if they were part of a quantum choreography, ultimately leading to a kind of electronic superfluid," says Comin.

But what is the interaction, or "glue," that holds these pairs of electrons together? Scientists have known for a long time that in conventional superconductors, that glue is derived from the motion of atoms within a material. "If you look at a solid sitting on a table, it doesn't appear to be doing anything," Comin says. However, "a lot is happening at the nanoscale. Inside that material electrons are flying by in all possible directions and the atoms are rattling; they're vibrating." In conventional superconductors, the electrons use the energy stored in that atomic motion to pair up.

The glue behind electrons' pairing in high-temperature superconductors is different. Scientists have theorized that this glue is related to a property of electrons called spin (another, more familiar property of electrons is their charge). The spin can be thought of as an elementary magnet, says Pelliciari. The idea is that in a high-temperature superconductor, electrons can pick up some of the energy from these spins, known as spin excitations. And that energy is the glue they use to pair up.

Until now, most physicists thought that it would be impossible to detect or measure spin excitations in a material only an atomic layer thick. That is the remarkable achievement of the work reported in Nature Communications. Not only did the physicists detect spin excitations, but, among other things, they also showed that the spin dynamics in the ultra-thin sample were dramatically different from those in the bulk sample. Specifically, the energy of the fluctuating spins in the ultra-thin sample was much higherby a factor of four or fivethan the energy of the spins in the bulk sample.

"This is the first experimental evidence of the presence of spin excitations in an atomically thin material," says Pelliciari.

Members of the team at Diamond Light Source (UK), home to the resonant inelastic x-ray scattering (RIXS) instrument used to uncover secrets of the worlds thinnest superconductor. Left to right: Jaewon Choi (Postdoc), Abhishek Nag (Postdoc), Mirian Garcia Fernandez (Beamline Scientist), Charles Tam (joint PhD student), Thomas Rice (Beamline technician), Ke-Jin Zhou (Principal Beamline Scientist), Stefano Agrestini (Beamline Scientist). Credit: Diamond Light Source

State-of-the Art Equipment

Historically, neutron scattering has been used to study magnetism. Since spin is the fundamental property of magnetism, neutron scattering would appear to be a good experimental probe. "The problem is that neutron scattering doesn't work on a material that is only one atomic layer thick," says Pelliciari.

Enter resonant inelastic X-ray scattering (RIXS), a new experimental technique that Pelliciari helped pioneer.

He and Comin discussed the potential for using RIXS to study the spin dynamics of the new ultra-thin superconductor, but Comin was initially skeptical. "I thought, 'yes, it would be great if we could do this, but experimentally it's going to be next to impossible,'" Comin remembers. "I thought it was a true moonshot." As a result, "when Johnny collected the very first results, it was mind-blowing for me. I'd kept my expectations low, so when I saw the data, I jumped on my chair."

Only a few facilities in the world have advanced RIXS instruments. One, located at Diamond Light Source (UK) and led by Dr. Zhou, is where the team conducted their experiment. Another one, which was still being built at the time of the experiment, is at Brookhaven National Laboratory. Pelliciari is now part of the team running the RIXS facility, known as the Beamline SIX, at the National Synchrotron Light Source II located at Brookhaven Lab.

"The impact of this work is two-fold," says Dr. Thorsten Schmitt, head of the Spectroscopy of Novel Materials Group at the Paul Scherrer Institut in Switzerland. Schmitt was not involved in the work. "On the experimental side, it is an impressive demonstration of the sensitivity of RIXS to the spin excitations in a superconducting material only an atomic layer thick. Furthermore, the [resulting data] are expected to contribute to the understanding of the enhancement of the superconducting transition temperature in such thin superconductors." In other words, the work could lead to even better superconductors.

Says Valentina Bisogni, lead scientist for the Beamline SIX, "the understanding of unconventional superconductivity is one of the main challenges faced by scientists today. The recent discovery of high-temperature superconductivity in a monolayer-thin film of iron selenide renewed the interest into the iron selenide system, as it provides a new route to investigate the mechanisms enabling high-temperature superconductivity.

"In this context, the work of Pelliciari et al. presents an enlightening, comparative study of bulk iron selenide and monolayer-thin iron selenide revealing a dramatic reconfiguration of the spin excitations." Bisogni was not involved in the Pelliciari work.

Explore further Scientists streamline process for controlling spin dynamics

More information: Jonathan Pelliciari et al, Evolution of spin excitations from bulk to monolayer FeSe, Nature Communications (2021). Jonathan Pelliciari et al, Evolution of spin excitations from bulk to monolayer FeSe,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23317-3 Comin's colleagues on the work include Jonathan Pelliciari, a former MIT postdoctoral fellow who is now an assistant physicist at Brookhaven National Laboratory. Pelliciari is lead author of this study. Other authors are Seher Karakuzu and Thomas A. Maier of Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Qi Song, Tianlun Yu, Xiaoyang Chen, Rui Peng, Qisi Wang, Jun Zhao, and Donglai Feng of Fudan University; Riccardo Arpaia, Matteo Rossi, and Giacomo Ghiringhelli of Politecnico di Milano (Arpaia is also affiliated with Chalmers University of Technology); Abhishek Nag, Jiemin Li, Mirian Garcia-Fernandez, Andrew C. Walters, and Ke-Jin Zhou of Diamond Light Source in the United Kingdom; and Steven Johnston of the University of Tennesee, Knoxville. This research was supported by the U.S. Air Force Office of Scientific Research, the MIT-POLIMI Program (Progetto Rocca), the Swiss National Science Foundation, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the U.S. Office of Naval Research, the Fondazione CARIPLO and Regione Lombardia, the Swedish Research Council, the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, and the National Natural Science Foundation of China. This research used resources of the National Synchrotron Light Source II, a DOE Office of Science user facility located at DOE's Brookhaven Lab. Journal information: Nature Communications
Over the past two decades, there has been growing concern over the number of drugs entering sewage systems in the waste being flushed down drains. Credit: aitoff / Pixabay

Common medicines that have passed through patients' bodies are ending up in the environment, but the threat many of them pose to wildlife and human health still needs to be determined. It may even be possible to recover some of these life-saving compounds so they can be reused.

Over the past two decades, there has been growing concern over the number of drugs entering sewage systems in the waste being flushed down drains. Most come from the urine and feces of patients who have taken medication. Even after it has passed through their bodies and water treatment works, these compounds can be found in rivers and lakes, and potentially even in our soils. Pharmaceuticals including cholesterol medications, beta-blockers, anti-epileptics, anti-inflammatories and antibiotics along with illegal substances have all been found in sewer outlets and nearby waterways.

"A lot of people think sewage plants clean water, but these plants were built to remove nitrogen and phosphates, not pharmaceuticals," said Professor Ad Ragas, an environmental scientist at Radboud University in the Netherlands and coordinator of the PREMIER project. "These pharmaceuticals end up in the environment, along with other micropollutants."

More than 600 pharmaceutical substances have been identified in aquatic environments around the world. Others find their way into terrestrial ecosystems. At least some of these compounds are known to cause undesirable effects in living organisms.

An infamous example occurred with vultures in India, at the end of the last century. Until the late 1980s, tens of millions of birds circled the skies, tarrying for dead carcasses, but in the 1990s, vulture numbers mysteriously plummeted, with some populations declining by more than 99%. Scientists were at first mystified, but then it was discovered in 2004 that the birds were being killed by diclofenac, a pharmaceutical routinely fed to Indian livestock. A cheap anti-inflammatory in cows, it caused kidney failure and death in vultures.

"This event triggered a lot of discussion about the impact of drugs on wildlife and the environment," said Prof. Ragas. Veterinary use of diclofenac was banned in India in 2006. But 15 years on, concern about drugs and their by-products escaping into the environment is gaining momentum around the globeand for good reason.

Every year, the use of medicines increases in both human and animal populations, yet there are still many questions over the impact that the documented spreading of pharmaceuticals is having on both human health and the ecology of our planet.

In 2013, the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union placed a number of pharmaceuticals, including some antibiotics, on a watch list of substances that should be carefully monitored in water bodies of the EU. This was the first document to include substances of undisputed medicinal value that pose a potential threat to fragile ecosystems.

Diagnostic scans

Hospitals are a major source of active pharmaceutical ingredients, and studies have found that many of the chemicals which originated from hospitals aren't entirely removed by wastewater treatment plants. Of particular concern are iodinated contrast media (ICMs)  the radiographic dyes frequently injected into a patient's blood stream before a diagnostic scan, such as a CT or MRI, to allow soft tissue to stand out from its background.

ICMs don't degrade in the body (they remain over 95% non-metabolized), and instead are flushed out and into the sewage system. Researchers believe they are a major contributor to the burden of persistent chemicals in wastewater. ICM by-products have been foundoften in elevated concentrationsin rivers, lakes, groundwater and even drinking water. They are also found in the soil, posing a potential risk both to humans, where agricultural land is contaminated, and wildlife. Organic halogens are one of the by-products of contrast media agents. These chemicals can have toxic effects in the soil and water if they are allowed to accumulate in high concentrations.

Professor Alberto Guadagnini from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the Politecnico di Milano in Italy said: "We still don't know how big the risk is of these substances accumulating in high concentrations in the groundwater system."

Data on the prevalence of ICMsand on what can be done to safely remove themis patchy. As populations age, the number of chronic and complex comorbidities are expected to rise, so the number of diagnostic imaging tests carried out across the globe is likely to grow. Current estimates put the number of clinical CT scanners operating worldwide at more than 45,000. In one Italian hospital alonethe San Raffaele in Milano30,000 such diagnostic tests are carried out each year.

Recycle

Prof. Guadagnini is hoping to fill some of the knowledge gaps through the recently launched four-year REMEDI project, which sets out to study new techniques for trapping and removing X-ray contrast medium agents from water and soil.

"Removing them is only part of the challengewe also want to recycle them," said Prof. Guadagnini. "Iodine and barium (which are used in contrast media) are valuable compounds. It would be far better for them to be used again by industry than to accumulate in the environment."

Studies have found that many of the chemicals originated in hospitals aren't entirely removed by wastewater treatment plants. Credit: Ivan Bandura / Unsplash

Prof. Guadagnini's team are focusing on iron oxides, which have a proven ability to bind to contrast agents. However, iron oxides can't be added directly to lakes and rivers to act as ICM traps, as they increase water acidity. Instead, the researchers will attempt to use these compounds to intercept ICMs before they reach natural waterbodies.

"A key idea is to trap contrasting media agents by engineering some porous material that mimics the sediment at the bottom of the river, which is part of the system that filters river water to make it drinkable," he said. "Such a solid matrix will be designed to trap the contrasting media agents. Once they are trapped, we can recover them and explore the potential for these contrasting media agents to be reused."

Even with these measures, a percentage of ICMs will still escape into watercourses and therefore groundwater. How serious a problem this inevitable leaching will pose to natural water bodies is something the REMEDI researchers are keen to quantify. A parallel stream of the project is attempting to assess and quantify the associated risks.

Although the project is still in its early days, Prof. Guadagnini is encouraged by the growing public conversation about pharmaceutical pollutants. "People are starting to see this as an issue that needs to be addressed," he said. "They are concerned because the knowledge about environmental risks is still incomplete, and the issue is gaining momentum in industry too, because there are economic implications to recovering some of these compounds and using them again."

Risk

Since 2006, a new medicinal product is only granted approval in the EU if it comes with an environmental risk assessmenta dossier quantifying the prospective environmental risk of a compound. These can form an important impetus for hospitals to determine how best to mitigate the risks of the medicines and other compounds they give to patients. It might be decided, for instance, to collect a patients' urine rather than flushing it down the toilet.

But these risk assessments are expensive to create (costing around 500,000 for one), and though this is only a tiny fraction of the total cost of bringing a new medicine to market, it adds to the overall costs of producing new treatments. The legislation is also only applicable to new medicines.

"We estimate that between 1,000 and 1,800 medicines were already on the market before 2006," said Prof. Ragas. "Medicines like paracetamol (of which Europeans consumed 48,400 tons in 2016) have never had their environmental impact systematically assessed."

Creating retrospective risk assessment dossiers is the primary goal of PREMIER. The project's researchers are using computer models to make smart and affordable predictions about both the toxicity of a drug and the likelihood of exposure causing adverse effects in aquatic ecosystems.

"By developing clever procedures, we want to avoid having to test all drugs," said Prof. Ragas. "If we know a molecule and its characteristicsfor example, how well it degrades and dissolves in waterwe can create models to predict how quickly it will disappear (from the environment).

"From our models, we hope to be able to say, "these 50 chemicals are most likely the most risky." We can then run more expensive tests on these chemicals and draw conclusions."

Prof. Ragas and his team hope to ascertain how a given pharmaceutical affects species differently. "Take fish," said Prof. Ragas. "If a pharmaceutical is known to target neurone molecules in the human body, we'll look at whether this target is also present in fish, using a genetic data bank. If the gene that codes for the target molecule in humans is also present in fish, we'll know fish are likely sensitive to the same chemical."

Prof. Ragas hopes this information could make it easier to assess the risks that both old and new medicines pose to the environment so steps can be taken to control those that are most harmful.

"We need to find a balance between the health benefits of pharmaceuticals for humans and the consequences for the environment," he said. "My biggest hope is that we can push the whole area of drug usage and drug development into a direction where people can benefit from the positive health effects of drugs without causing any environmental harm."

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Lucy and Tim Hawking stand with the whelchair used by their late father Professor Stephen Hawking which has been acquired by the Science Museum Group, in London, Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Science Museum Group and Cambridge University Library will announce that they have acquired the historic contents of Professor Stephen Hawking's office (going to SMG) and his archive (going to CUL). Credit: AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

London's Science Museum and the Cambridge University library said Wednesday they have acquired a large collection of items belonging to late physicist Stephen Hawking, from his personalized wheelchairs to landmark papers on theoretical physics and his scripts from his appearance on "The Simpsons."

The entire contents of Hawking's office at Cambridgeincluding his communications equipment, memorabilia, bets he made on scientific debates and office furniturewill be preserved as part of the collection belonging to the Science Museum Group.

Hawking occupied the office at the university's department of applied mathematics and theoretical physics from 2002 until shortly before his death in 2018.

Highlights will go on display at the London museum early next year. Museum officials are also hoping to create a touring exhibition in the U.K. before setting up a permanent display in London.

Meanwhile, his vast archive of scientific and personal papers, including a first draft of his bestselling "A Brief History of Time" and his correspondence with leading scientists, will remain at Cambridge University's library.

The institutions' acceptance of Hawking's archive and office meant that his estate settled 4.2 million pounds ($5.9 million) in inheritance tax.

This was done through a U.K. government plan which allows those who have such tax bills to pay by transferring important cultural, scientific or historic objects to the nation. Artefacts accepted under the plan are allocated to public collections and available for all.

Kate Perks, Senior Collections Care Conservator stands with a portrait of Professor Stephen Hawking by artist Fred Cuming, which has been acquired by the Science Museum Group, in London, Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Science Museum Group and Cambridge University Library will announce that they have acquired the historic contents of Professor Stephen Hawking's office (going to SMG) and his archive (going to CUL). Credit: AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

Hawking studied for his PhD at Cambridge and later became the university's Lucasian Professor of Mathematics, the same post that Isaac Newton held from 1669 to 1702.

Cambridge's acquisition of the 10,000-page archive means that Hawking's papers will join those of Newton and Charles Darwin at the university library, where they will soon be free for the public to access.

"The archive allows us to step inside Stephen's mind and to travel with him round the cosmos to, as he said, 'better understand our place in the universe,'" said Jessica Gardner, the university's librarian.

"This vast archive gives extraordinary insight into the evolution of Stephen's scientific life, from childhood to research student, from disability activist to ground-breaking, world-renowned scientist," she added.

Diagnosed with motor neuron disease at 22 and given just a few years to live, Hawking survived for decades, dying in 2018 at 76. His work on the mysteries of space, time and black holes captured the imagination of millions, and his popular science books made him a celebrity beyond the preserves of academia. Hollywood celebrated his life in the 2014 biopic "The Theory of Everything."

A letter written by Professor Stephen Hawking and his sister Mary to their father when they were children, which has been acquired by Cambridge University Library, in London, Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Science Museum Group and Cambridge University Library will announce that they have acquired the historic contents of Professor Stephen Hawking's office (going to SMG) and his archive (going to CUL). Credit: AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

Kate Perks, Senior Collections Care Conservator stands with the wheelchair used by Professor Stephen Hawking which has been acquired by the Science Museum Group, in London, Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Science Museum Group and Cambridge University Library will announce that they have acquired the historic contents of Professor Stephen Hawking's office (going to SMG) and his archive (going to CUL). Credit: AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

A letter and bet made by Professor Stephen Hawking and Kip Thorne with John Preskill on whether information can be recovered from a black hole, signed with Hawking's thumbprint, which has been acquired by the Science Museum Group, in London, Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Science Museum Group and Cambridge University Library will announce that they have acquired the historic contents of Professor Stephen Hawking's office (going to SMG) and his archive (going to CUL). Credit: AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

Examples of Professor Stephen Hawking's work Black Hole Explosions which predicted Hawking Radiation, along with copies of various scientific papers which have been acquired by the Science Museum Group, in London, Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Science Museum Group and Cambridge University Library will announce that they have acquired the historic contents of Professor Stephen Hawking's office (going to SMG) and his archive (going to CUL). Credit: AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

The Franklin Medal awarded to Professor Stephen Hawking which has been acquired by the Science Museum Group, in London, Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Science Museum Group and Cambridge University Library will announce that they have acquired the historic contents of Professor Stephen Hawking's office (going to SMG) and his archive (going to CUL). Credit: AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

One of five copies of Professor Stephen Hawking's PhD thesis, Properties of Expanding Universes, which has been acquired by the Science Museum Group, in London, Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Science Museum Group and Cambridge University Library will announce that they have acquired the historic contents of Professor Stephen Hawking's office (going to SMG) and his archive (going to CUL). Credit: AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

A CBE medal awarded to Professor Stephen Hawking which has been acquired by the Science Museum Group, in London, Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Science Museum Group and Cambridge University Library will announce that they have acquired the historic contents of Professor Stephen Hawking's office (going to SMG) and his archive (going to CUL). Credit: AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

Professor Stephen Hawking's tortoiseshell spectacles with analogue sensor are displayed in front of an early generation voice synthesiser box used by Stephen Hawking, which have been acquired by the Science Museum Group, in London, Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Science Museum Group and Cambridge University Library will announce that they have acquired the historic contents of Professor Stephen Hawking's office (going to SMG) and his archive (going to CUL). Credit: AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

The Papal Medal awarded to Professor Stephen Hawking which has been acquired by the Science Museum Group, in London, Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Science Museum Group and Cambridge University Library will announce that they have acquired the historic contents of Professor Stephen Hawking's office (going to SMG) and his archive (going to CUL). Credit: AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

Hawking's children, Lucy, Tim and Robert, said they were pleased that their father's work will be preserved for the public for generations to come.

"My father would be so pleased and I think maybe at the same time, just a tiny bit overwhelmed that he was going to form part of the ... history of science, that he was going to be alongside the great scientists, the people whose work he really admired," Lucy Hawking said.

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Credit: University of Surrey

In a paper published in Nature Communications, the research team details the complex physical processes at work to understand the chemistry of ice formation. The molecular-level perspective of this process may help in predicting the formation and melting of ice, from individual crystals to glaciers and ice sheets. The latter being crucial to quantify environmental transformation in connection with climate change and global warming.

The team was able to track down the first step in ice formation, called nucleation, which happens in an incredibly short length of time, a fraction of a billionth of a second, when highly mobile individual water molecules find each other and coalesce. However, conventional microscopes are far too slow to follow the motion of water molecules, so it is impossible to use them to monitor how molecules combine on top of solid surfaces.

The research team used a state-of-the-art Helium Spin-Echo (HeSE) machine to follow the motion of atoms and molecules. The team used HeSE to study the motion of water molecules on a model pristine graphene surface. The researchers made a remarkable observation: the water molecules repel each other and need to gain sufficient energy to overcome that repulsion before ice can start to form.

It is the combination of both experimental and theoretical methods that have allowed the international team of scientists to unravel the behaviour of the water molecules. Together these have captured, for the first time, exactly how the first step of ice formation at a surface evolves and allows them to propose a previously unknown physical mechanism.

Dr. Marco Sacchi, co-author of the study and Royal Society University Research Fellow at the University of Surrey, said: "Our results show that water molecules need to overcome a small but important energy barrier before forming ice. We hope that our unique collaborative project will go some way to helping us all understand the dramatic changes that are happening right across our planet."

Dr. Anton Tamtogl, lead and corresponding author, from Graz University of Technology, adds: "The observations completely alter our understanding of ice nucleation. The HeSE results looked very promising, but the motion of water was incredibly complicated and suggested counter-intuitive new physics. We decided that atomistic simulations were needed to interpret the results."

The study results of Anton Tamtogl et al lead to a completely new understanding of ice formation: Water molecules require additional energy before they freeze into ice. Credit:  Lunghammer - TU Graz

Dr. Andrew Jardine, a Reader in Experimental Physics from the University of Cambridge, one of the developers of the HeSE method, said: "The technique is completely revolutionising our ability to follow physical and chemical processes at the single molecule level."

Dr. Bill Allison, also from the University of Cambridge, said: "Repulsion between water molecules has simply not been considered during ice nucleationthis work will change all that. The newly observed interactions also change the rate at which nucleation takes place, and hence at which ice can form. The work will therefore have important consequences in preventing ice formation, which is relevant to fields as diverse as wind power, aviation and telecommunications."

Explore further The mysterious movement of water molecules

More information: Anton Tamtogl et al, Motion of water monomers reveals a kinetic barrier to ice nucleation on graphene, Nature Communications (2021). Journal information: Nature Communications Anton Tamtogl et al, Motion of water monomers reveals a kinetic barrier to ice nucleation on graphene,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23226-5
Jennifer Weissel and her greyhound, Kelly. Credit: University of Sydney

Jennifer Weissel did not expect her greyhound, Kelly, to live to be "an old lady."

In 2019, Weissel noticed some lumps growing under Kelly's jaw. Specialists at the University Veterinary Teaching Hospital Sydney diagnosed lymphoma, a common, aggressive and usually fatal cancer in dogs.

Even after treatment with chemotherapy, Kelly's cancer continued to progress. Her chance of survival looked slim, so the University's specialists suggested she take part in a safety trial for a new vaccine.

Kelly was injected with a vaccine made from tissue taken from her own tumors. The vaccine, invented by University of Sydney immunologist Dr. Christopher Weir, is a personalized treatment that stimulates the patient's immune system to attack cancer.

Dogs diagnosed with lymphoma typically survive approximately a year. But more than two years on, Kelly's cancer is in remission and she is thriving. She is one of more than 300 dogs who have been treated with the vaccine, which Dr. Weir developed with support from crowdfunded donations. Preliminary results suggest the vaccine has anti-cancer effects in various tumors. It also appears to be helpful in preventing recurrence.

"Thanks to the first trial, we now know the vaccine is safe," says Dr. Weir. "It appears to work for several different types of cancerparticularly well on MAST cell tumors and lymphoma."

Kelly the greyhound on her reupholstered couch. Credit: University of Sydney

The vaccine is an example of immunotherapy, which is considered one of the most promising emerging approaches to cancer treatment in humans. In Australia, it is rare to use immunotherapy in the treatment of dogs, and funding available for this kind of veterinary research is limited. Philanthropic support has been crucial in funding Dr. Weir's work.

Dr. Weir says the vaccine is more cost-effective than chemotherapy, which can cost more than $10,000 for a single dog. When used in combination with chemotherapy, the vaccine appears to have the potential to result in long-term remission. While chemotherapy alone can prolong survival, it usually does not save the animal's life. Dr. Weir hopes his vaccine will eventually provide a cheaper, safer and more effective treatment option.

The next step is to test the vaccine's efficacy on specific cancer types. Dr. Weir is working with Associate Professor Peter Bennett and Dr. Katrina Cheng from the Sydney School of Veterinary Science to trial the vaccine on dogs diagnosed with lymphoma.

Supported by funding from the Ronald Bruce Anstee Bequest and the Canine Research Foundation, they are working to recruit 80 dogs to participate. To prove whether the vaccine increases lifespan in dogs with lymphoma, they will give some patients the vaccine in combination with chemotherapy, some in combination with palliative steroids, and others a placebo. (Placebos are used in veterinary medicine in order to avoid clinician bias.)

Kelly the greyhound is now 11 years oldthe old lady Weissel thought she'd never be. The two of them enjoy daily walks around their beachside village of Maianbar in Sydney's south. Weissel has even reupholstered the old couch Kelly sleeps on.

"I wasn't going to do it because I was sure she wasn't going to live," she says. "But things are looking good now and she's worth it  She's family.

"I'm grateful we've been given the opportunity to take part in this trial. It's been a blessing."

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An international research team, including scientists from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, have validated a nearly 40-year-old prediction and experimentally shown that helium rain is possible inside planets such as Jupiter and Saturn (pictured). Credit: NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute.

Nearly 40 years ago, scientists first predicted the existence of helium rain inside planets composed primarily of hydrogen and helium, such as Jupiter and Saturn. However, achieving the experimental conditions necessary to validate this hypothesis hasn't been possibleuntil now.

In a paper published today by Nature, scientists reveal experimental evidence to support this long-standing prediction, showing that helium rain is possible over a range of pressure and temperature conditions that mirror those expected to occur inside these planets.

"We discovered that helium rain is real, and can occur both in Jupiter and Saturn," said Marius Millot, a physicist at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and co-author on the publication. "This is important to help planetary scientists decipher how these planets formed and evolved, which is critical to understanding how the solar system formed."

"Jupiter is especially interesting because it's thought to have helped protect the inner-planet region where Earth formed," added Raymond Jeanloz, co-author and professor of earth and planetary science and astronomy at the University of California, Berkeley. "We may be here because of Jupiter."

The international research team, which included scientists from LLNL, the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission, the University of Rochester and the University of California, Berkeley, conducted their experiments at the University of Rochester's Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE).

"Coupling static compression and laser-driven shocks is key to allow us to reach the conditions comparable to the interior of Jupiter and Saturn, but it is very challenging," Millot said. "We really had to work on the technique to obtain convincing evidence. It took many years and lots of creativity from the team."

The team used diamond anvil cells to compress a mixture of hydrogen and helium to 4 gigapascals, (GPa; approximately 40,000 times Earth's atmosphere). Then, the scientists used 12 giant beams of LLE's Omega Laser to launch strong shock waves to further compress the sample to final pressures of 60-180 GPa and heat it to several thousand degrees. A similar approach was key to the discovery of superionic water ice.

Using a series of ultrafast diagnostic tools, the team measured the shock velocity, the optical reflectivity of the shock-compressed sample and its thermal emission, finding that the reflectivity of the sample did not increase smoothly with increasing shock pressure, as in most samples the researchers studied with similar measurements. Instead, they found discontinuities in the observed reflectivity signal, which indicate that the electrical conductivity of the sample was changing abruptly, a signature of the helium and hydrogen mixture separating. In a paper published in 2011, LLNL scientists Sebastien Hamel, Miguel Morales and Eric Schwegler suggested using changes in the optical reflectivity as a probe for the demixing process.

"Our experiments reveal experimental evidence for a long-standing prediction: There is a range of pressures and temperatures at which this mixture becomes unstable and demixes," Millot said. "This transition occurs at pressure and temperature conditions close to that needed to transform hydrogen into a metallic fluid, and the intuitive picture is that the hydrogen metallization triggers the demixing."

Numerically simulating this demixing process is challenging because of subtle quantum effects. These experiments provide a critical benchmark for theory and numerical simulations. Looking ahead, the team will continue to refine the measurement and extend it to other compositions in the continued pursuit of improving our understanding of materials at extreme conditions.

Explore further Researchers put pressure on hydrogen

More information: S. Brygoo et al, Evidence of hydrogenhelium immiscibility at Jupiter-interior conditions, Nature (2021). Journal information: Nature S. Brygoo et al, Evidence of hydrogenhelium immiscibility at Jupiter-interior conditions,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-021-03516-0
Total strangers have reached out. A man named Jonny Castro had sent a painting that is nearly an exact reproduction of Jenks military service photo.

Richard Clark, who runs an organization called Flags 4 Fallen, is going to run the Miles on the Mohawk race in Schenectady on Saturday carrying a flag in her honor. The flag is marked with Jenks name and date of birth. It will be given to Mary Jenks after the race.

Jenks has also decorated the wall with some of her favorite quotes, including one that says: Every day may not be a good day, but there is something good in every day.

Jenks said her daughter was always so happy and positive. She loved animals, especially birds. She also was very artistic and drew tattoo designs.

Jenks did not want to make a career out of the military. She was looking to become a tattoo artist.

Abby had designed a butterfly tattoo that Mary Jenks has on her back. The butterfly is a powerful symbol for the family.

Each of my kids gets a butterfly when they leave the home, Mary Jenks said.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Karine Jean-Pierre on Wednesday became the first openly gay woman to deliver the White House press briefing and only the second Black woman in history to take on the role.

Jean-Pierre, the White House principal deputy press secretary, had briefed reporters aboard Air Force One, but Wednesday marked her first time before the lectern for a televised briefing.

"It's a real honor to be standing here today," Jean-Pierre told reporters, when asked about her historic turn. "Clearly the president believes that representation matters, and I appreciate him giving me this opportunity."

Judy Smith, who served as deputy press secretary to President George H.W. Bush in 1991, was the first Black woman to take on the role.

Jean-Pierre is seen as a potential successor to current White House press secretary Jen Psaki, who has publicly said she only intends to serve in the role for about a year, and Wednesday's appearance was seen as an audition of sorts for the job. Jean-Pierre fields press requests and makes frequent appearances for the Biden administration on cable news.
She has served for the past five years as the president of the nonprofit Lawyers' Committee, which focuses on social justice.

After her nomination, Republicans resurfaced controversial moments going back as far as her undergraduate years at Harvard, where she co-authored an article that compared the genetics of Blacks and whites and as the leader of Harvard's Black Students' Association where she invited an anti-Semitic author for a speaking engagement.

Clarke confronted both situations over 25 years ago, apologizing for giving the author a platform and explaining after the article published that she did not share those views. But after right-wing news outlets resurfaced the article to denounce her nomination, she has met with several Jewish organizations and reiterated to the Union of Reform Judaism that "she erred" in her decisions.
BENNINGTON, Vt.  Advocates, including the local branch of the NAACP and the ACLU, criticized how leaders in Bennington are proposing to create a police oversight board.

The proposal would create an 11-member committee that would start work in August and deliver a plan for how a police oversight board should be structured and run in May 2022, the Bennington Banner reported.

On Monday, the president of the Rutland Area NAACP, Mia Schultz, and Jay Diaz, an attorney with the ACLU of Vermont, said the proposed process was deeply flawed and too slow.

The Select Board cannot delegate its responsibility to create a police accountability board to a group of volunteers and police officers, Schultz and Diaz said in a statement. In addition, the Select Board has already examined police oversight models and acted as an interim oversight body for the last year. Creating a volunteer task force to re-examine the issues yet again is unnecessary.
This is another example of the commitment to data integrity that our epidemiologists have demonstrated throughout the pandemic. he said. We would encourage all states to conduct a similar review of their medical certifiers. And while these are exercises in data maintenance, whats most important is that we never lose sight of the human toll of COVID-19.
The first man in the world to receive a clinically approved COVID-19 vaccine has died of an unrelated illness, British officials said.

The 81-year-old Englishman, named William Shakespeare, was the first man and second person to get a Pfizer jab after the U.K. approved the experimental shots in early December. The first person was 90-year-old British grandmother Margaret Keenan.

Shakespeare died Thursday, but the cause of death was not immediately known, according to the BBC. The Coventry resident had reportedly worked at Rolls Royce and served as a parish councilor for many years.

He made international headlines after getting inoculated at University Hospital Coventry, a major milestone in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

His name helped draw even more attention  and jokes  to that special moment.

Some on social media referred to the scene as "The Taming of the Flu," a reference to playwright William Shakespeare's 16th-century work "The Taming of the Shrew."

The vaccinated Shakespeare was also an active supporter of the local Labour Party, according to multiple Twitter posts.
MAYS LANDING  Lomax Carpet & Tile Mart, an independent flooring retailer, opened its newest Flooring Superstore on Wednesday in the former Toys R Us building adjacent to Hamilton Mall on the Black Horse Pike.

Were thrilled to be able to bring a high level of selection, savings, service, and an enhanced shopping experience to flooring customers in South Jersey with our new store in Mays Landing, said Michael Longwill, Carpet & Tile Mart president, in a written statement.

Longwill is the third generation owner/operator of the family-owned company in continuous business for more than half a century. The company has 12 other stores in Delaware and Pennsylvania.

We continue to provide incredible flooring at exceptional value pricing, Longwill said. We are now able to serve customers throughout the region from Atlantic City to Toms River, Vineland to Cape May, and Egg Harbor Township to Gloucester County. Anyone with a primary or second home at the Jersey Shore will want to visit our store.

The new Lomax Carpet & Tile Mart store will occupy 45,000 square feet in the former Toys R Us location. The building has undergone extensive renovations, the company said.

Hamilton Township planners approve two new businesses The Hamilton Township Planning Board recently granted approvals to two new businesses lookin

The Flooring Superstore will include:
LONGPORT  Three police cars from the borough, Vineland and Pleasantville were unveiled Thursday as part of the HERO Campaigns annual Summer of HEROES initiative to prevent drunken driving.

The John R. Elliott HERO Campaign for Designated Drivers was established by Egg Harbor Township residents Bill and Muriel Elliott after their son John was killed in a July 2000 collision with a drunken driver just two months after graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy.

Since its inception, the HERO Campaign has grown into a major movement to prevent impaired driving and reduce alcohol-related fatalities and incidents.

The Be a HERO. Be a Designated Driver decals on the cars will serve as rolling billboards as they travel around their communities to remind people never to drive under the influence.

The latest patrol cars join HERO-branded cars in Ocean City, Atlantic City, Linwood, Lower Township, Sea Isle City and Evesham Township in Burlington County.

Vineland Police and HERO Campaign partner to prevent drunk driving The Vineland police department, in partnership with the HERO Campaign, is promoting safe and

During an unveiling ceremony behind Borough Hall, Assemblyman Vince Mazzeo, D-Atlantic, spoke of his 26-year-old son and how on Sunday mornings after a night out he would call his father and ask him to pick him up from a friends house and then drive him to his car.
The administration of Gov. Phil Murphy has strongly urged municipalities to start changing their plans and policies to fit a future with higher sea levels.

Thats sensible enough, since there has been a modest and steady increase in sea levels the past century, partly from a warming climate (natural and manmade) and in New Jersey mostly from sinking coastal land.

But then the state Department of Environmental Protection picked a highly unlikely bad future to prepare for -- one in which the ocean suddenly rises much faster, to 5 feet higher in less than 80 years. Brigantine Mayor Vincent Sera said that seemed weird, since sea level has risen just 19 inches the past 110 years.

The DEP could have urged towns, barrier island residents and others to anticipate a 2 foot rise in sea levels by the end of the century. That has a likelihood of 83% in the 2019 study by a Rutgers University advisory panel the DEP used. There is only a 50-50 chance of a 3.3 foot rise. Instead, the administrations environment department picked a 5.1 foot jump in sea level that doesnt even have a 1 in 5 chance of happening.
End qualified immunity from lawsuits for police

If police violate peoples constitutional rights, shouldnt they be held accountable? State Sen. Nia Gills proposal would address a serious injustice by allowing the victims of police misconduct to have their day in court.

S-3730 would follow the lead of New York City and several states by ending a disputed legal defense called qualified immunity, which some bad cops use to have lawsuits against them dismissed.

This change would let victims of excessive force or illegal searches get the justice they deserve and help New Jersey cultivate better police-community relations.

People shouldnt let special interests block this much-needed reform. Pro-police lobbying groups and the politicians beholden to them are smearing this proposal. State Sen. Jim Holzapfels characterization of qualified immunity as a way to discourage frivolous lawsuits is an insult to peoples intelligence.

We should stop kowtowing to police over the citizens they serve. We should end qualified immunity.

Stephanie Black

Bridgewater

Basin bathroom neglected
The whole tragedy had started with the two officers responding to reports of a domestic violence call involving a woman who was being physically abused in an apartment.

The body cams of Oberheim and Creel show them walking up to the apartments with Creel in the lead. He finds Lafayette sitting in a vehicle with his leg out the door, his left hand holding a cell phone but his right hand out of sight in the car.

Whats up man? Champaign Police. How are you? asks Creel as he approaches. He orders Lafayette to put both his hands where the officer can see them but Lafayette, whose voice sounds slurred, quickly exits the car while saying I aint got nothin, man.

The states attorney noted in her statement that events are now happening very fast, and just 7.5 seconds have gone by from the time Creel first approached Lafayette to the man emerging from the vehicle with a gun in his right hand.

Creel said he then tried to grab the suspect in a bearhug to keep the mans gun hand down, but Lafayette broke free. Oberheim is then seen reaching in to help Creel control Lafayette, followed by the sounds and flashes of multiple gunshots and screaming cries of pain.
Brown said that Bahena Rivera also had a sexual motive, noting that Tibbetts was partially naked with her legs spread when her body was found.

Bahena Rivera knew for five weeks where he had hidden Tibbetts' body under corn stalks in a remote area but stayed quiet as investigators worked long hours to find out what had caused the sweet young woman to disappear, Brown said. He later led them to the body in the dark and confessed to the crime, he said.

Bahena Rivera's defense lawyer, Chad Frese, told jurors that the confession was false and coerced and that prosecutors failed to prove that it was his client who stabbed Tibbetts to death. He noted that they never found a murder weapon or produced any witnesses showing exactly where she was killed, despite having unlimited resources to pursue the highly publicized case.

Frese said Bahena Rivera was not a monster," had no history of violence and worked to avoid police, given that he had moved to the country illegally from Mexico as a teenager. He said it made no sense that his client would be brazen enough to pick up a woman, abduct her and maybe kill her in a span of 10 to 20 minutes.

Folks this was planned, not by him but by someone else, Frese said.
James PJ Ransone, an actor who had prominent roles in The Wire and the movies It Chapter Two and Sinister, said on Instagram last week that Timothy Rualo, then a math tutor, molested him in Ransones Phoenix home over a six-month period around 1992, when Ransone was about 13. Rualo is currently department chair of the social studies program at Sudbrook Magnet Middle School in Pikesville, according to the schools website.
In the upper left corner of a large mural painted in Adam Toledos memory at the intersection of Ogden and Lawndale avenues is a very sharp, black-and-white sketch. Its a drawing of a car with detailed spokes and boxy, clean lines.

The image came straight out of the spiral notebook the teen sketched in, his family members said, just minutes before they stood shoulder to shoulder beneath the mural Wednesday to announce plans to open a rural haven in his name for youths growing up in troubled city neighborhoods.

The announcement came on what would have been Toledos 14th birthday, and the plans for Adams Place, as outlined by his mother, described something that many might take for granted: a place to run around freely, learn and grow with friends without getting lured astray.

Toledo was shot and killed March 29 by a Chicago police officer in a Little Village alley during a foot chase.
"Most concerning to us are the long-term effects on both the physical and mental health of the employees of Thomson," Zumkehr wrote. "I would be failing in my representational duties if I did not say candidly that USP Thomson is experiencing a staffing crisis, bar none in the Bureau of Prisons. A review of the overall conditions witnessed at USP Thomson, without immediate intervention, have cultivated an environment with catastrophic potential."

Zumkehr said immediate intervention was necessary to alleviate the staffing crisis and reduce immediate dangers facing the employees.

"It should be the moral obligation of the Federal Bureau of Prisons to send immediate assistance and relief to those that have worked the hardest supporting the mission," Zumkehr wrote.

U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos, D-Moline; U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill.; and U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill. sent a joint letter April 16 to Michael Carvajal, director of the U.S. Bureau of Prisons, and Kathleen McGettigan, acting director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, asking for an increase in compensation for Thomson employees, similar to what prison employees are paid at the two Chicago-area facilities.
"Right now these draft maps aren't built with us. They are built for us. And we are not okay with them," she said, urging lawmakers not to approve the maps.

Groups representing the Latinx, Jewish, Asian, and Black communities also testified. They made similar points as Sayeed and said the Democrats' proposal divides up their communities.

"We were somewhat astonished to see that some of the improvements we asked for were not made," said Shlomo Soroka from Agudah Israel of Illinois.

Soroka said the Jewish community, which is most dense in the north suburbs of Chicago, was divided up into several districts and he previously submitted maps to the committee showing them an appropriate way to handle redistricting to keep Jewish representation.

Sayeed said her group and others just want equitable representation and not to be drawn into a partisan fight. Witnesses testified on a wide range of personal concerns, including lines through Black communities on Chicago's west side and the difficulty groups have analyzing the maps.

"This is a significant problem," said Jose Marco-Paredes from Latino Policy Forum on the lack of data accompanying the map release.

"We can't evaluate what we can't see," said Robin Hood, a pastor from Chicago's west side.
The state is conducting an assessment of its public health and human services agencies to align and integrate programs, practices and policies.

Though a merger between the agencies into a health and human services department is not confirmed at this stage, it is a goal of the head of both agencies that those departments work more closely together to conduct business more effectively and efficiently, according to state legislators.

Ultimately better alignment will lead to improved outcomes for individuals, communities and the state, Sarah Ekstrand, Iowa Department of Public Health spokeswoman, said in an email.

Over the next nine months, the Iowa Department of Public Health and the Iowa Department of Human Services is conducting a health and human services alignment assessment to improve delivery of services and most effectively leverage funding.

Public Consulting Group, a Boston-based public sector consulting firm, has been brought on as a contractor to conduct the assessment. The state will pay the group $630,550 for its work, according to the state contract.

Updates on the assessment will be posted on hhsalignment.iowa.gov.
"Working under the influences of extreme exhaustion can lead to an increase in errors and critical thinking. Employee turnover and retention are a direct result of the staffing crisis and conditions that most employees deem unbearable. Eighteen months appears to be the limit of tolerance.

"Most concerning to us are the long-term effects on both the physical and mental health of the employees of Thomson," Zumkehr wrote. "I would be failing in my representational duties if I did not say candidly that USP Thomson is experiencing a staffing crisis, bar none in the Bureau of Prisons. A review of the overall conditions witnessed at USP Thomson, without immediate intervention, have cultivated an environment with catastrophic potential."

Zumkehr said immediate intervention was necessary to alleviate the staffing crisis and reduce immediate dangers facing the employees.

"It should be the moral obligation of the Federal Bureau of Prisons to send immediate assistance and relief to those that have worked the hardest supporting the mission," Zumkehr wrote.
AARP Iowa is encouraging Iowans of all ages who are without access to high-speed internet or struggling to afford it, to look into the recently launched Emergency Broadband Benefit program.

The program is a $3.2 billion Federal Communications Commission program to help Americans access the affordable, high-speed internet they need during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The pandemic has shown our reliance on high-speed internet, AARP Iowa State Director Brad Anderson said. But too many Iowans are being left behind. Patients navigating telehealth, students learning remotely and loved ones staying connected with family members by video chat are only a few of the critical tasks that require a high-speed connection.

Iowa Community Action Association is proud to stand with AARP to help increase access to service and to drive down costs, in particular for low-income Iowans, said Katherine Riley Harrington, executive director for Iowa Community Action Association. Internet access is an essential service; and, with more and more basic service delivery occurring over broadband like health care, education and work, it is imperative that all of our citizens get and stay connected."

Under the short-term program, Iowa residents may be eligible for a discount on their high-speed internet service of up to:
Whatever the Founding Fathers envisioned as the rights and privileges of our citizens, we wanted for ourselves as well, she told WHYY for a 2015 commemoration. Somebody had to get out and show their face in public and proclaim things and be aggressive."

Lahusen's life partner, Gittings, was one of the nation's most prominent lesbian activists and co-organizer of the Annual Reminder pickets in Philadelphia.

They had met in 1961 at a picnic held by Daughters of Bilitis, the first known lesbian organization in the U.S. whose East Coast chapter Gittings had founded. Lahusen was arts editor and shot groundbreaking cover photos of gay women for the group's national publication, The Ladder, which Gittings edited.

Lahusen also was a founding member of the Gay Activists Alliance and photographed that groups protests, called zaps. She was there for Philadelphias first gay pride march in 1972. Under the pseudonym Kay Tobin, she co-authored a 1972 book, The Gay Crusaders, which profiled the movements early leaders.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  The sponsor of Tennessees new law requiring businesses and government facilities to post signs if they let transgender people use the bathrooms of their choice now says owners and officials who refuse could face up to six months in jail  a penalty that went unmentioned during legislative hearings and debate.

The question of who would do the enforcing remains murky as well.

Republican Rep. Tim Rudd, who sponsored the bathroom sign bill, said a class B misdemeanor could apply to those who won't post the signs within 30 days of being warned they're breaking the law. That seems to contradict what Rudd told fellow lawmakers in March. He said then that the bill version that would become law does not provide any fines or penalties at this point."

He has since argued that he was telling the truth because while the bill itself was silent about any penalty, it was inserted into a chapter of existing building code law that already penalizes a number of violations. This law broadly defines such violations as a class B misdemeanor for non-compliance with such things as smoke alarm requirements and air conditioning regulations. Such crimes are punishable by the jail time and a $500 maximum fine. The Chattanooga Times Free Press first reported on the criminal penalties.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ayn Ducao said that Dorchy did not allow the women to use their nicknames of choice in their online ads, and sometimes promised customers sex acts that the women were not comfortable with. One of the victims spoke up at the sentencing hearing, saying she felt held captive and was reliant on Dorchy.
The new fall date holds significance, as October is LGBTQ History Month. Organizers urge everyone to continue to celebrate and observe Pride Month in June, as well as explore LGBTQ history in the symbolic month of October, paying tribute to the activists of the past that have made progress possible. October is also when National Coming Out Day is, which influenced the decision to have the parade then, Frye said.

It is uncertain how the event will look different from previous Pride Parades, if at all. There still exists a level of great unknown to all of this...masks might become something we have to use again, Frye told us. Regardless, if it were even remotely possible that it would not be safe to have the parade, we wouldnt think twice about that.

Despite the new date and new circumstances, Chicago Pride remains an exciting and celebratory event for the LGBTQ+ community, members new and old alike. One of the best parts of Pride, according to Frye, is the level of community that new attendees are met with at the Parade.
CHICAGO  The Chicago Police Department on Wednesday announced a policy on foot pursuits following the fatal shootings in late March of Adam Toledo and Anthony Alvarez, both of whom were shot and killed by officers who ran after them.

A temporary version of the policy will go into effect June 11, but residents and community leaders will have an opportunity to offer feedback before it becomes permanent in September, police Superintendent David Brown said at a Wednesday press conference.

Some of the highlights of the new temporary policy include: prohibiting foot pursuits for minor traffic violations; not allowing officers to separate from their partners if they cant see the person theyre chasing; stopping the chase if officers believe they wouldnt be able to control that person; and making attempts to contain a suspect to a particular area by notifying outside police units as an alternative to chasing them.

The policy also called for officers to use a so-called balancing test to determine whether a foot chase is appropriate, assessing the seriousness of the crime against whether a pursuit could put the suspect, officer or any bystanders at risk of getting hurt. It also says that officers can only pursue people on foot if they have probable cause that the person committed the crime or believe that theyre about to commit one.
Though the company was not identified, details provided in the complaint show it is J.B. Hunt Transport Services, headquartered in Lowell, Arkansas.

Beginning in 2018, Individual A started making plans to leave the company and strike out as an entrepreneur  including forming his own company in the trucking industry  and saw working with Ristik as an opportunity to build such a venture, according to the complaint.

As part of that plan, he made in agreement with Ristik to accept $5,000 a week in consulting fees in exchange for steering lucrative contracts from Victim Company A to several of Ristiks companies, which were based in Chicago, Des Plaines, Justice and in Florida, according to the charges.

Ristik at first issued the payments by check, but later he began making them via QuickPay transfers directly to Individual As newly formed consulting firm, the complaint stated.

Meanwhile, Ristiks business with Arkansas-based company exploded. One of his firms saw volume nearly triple in late 2018, from approximately 830 loads the prior month to 2,187 loads, resulting in a revenue increase of about a $1 million, the complaint stated.
The caucus established legislation on four pillars, which included the landmark criminal justice reform legislation signed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker earlier this year.

Illinois became the first state in the country to ban cash bail and mandated all police officers wear body cameras by 2025. There will be various changes made to use-of-force policy, among other sweeping changes.

Other pillars centered around economic access, equity and opportunity; education and workforce development; and health and human services.

But lawmakers say there's still more to be done.

One item originally in the criminal justice legislation but ultimately taken out was the elimination of qualified immunity for police officers. Another push came up short this spring, but proponents say they will continue to push for this and other reforms.
A thank-you note to my ancestors:

In the film "South Pacific" this song is sung:

Youve got to be taught before its too late,

Before you are six or seven or eight,

To hate all the people your relatives hate;

Youve got to be carefully taught.

Youve got to be taught to hate and fear,

Its got to be drummed in your dear little ear.

Youve got to be taught to be afraid

Of people whose eyes are oddly made

And people whose skin is a different shade;

Youve got to be carefully taught.

My great-grandfather was a conductor on the Underground Railroad. In my rural community in Nebraska there were no Black or brown people, but when someone objected to playing against Black players, my mother said firmly: Of course we will play against them; they are students. She worked in a restaurant, and when she saw another waitress ignoring a Black man, she took his order and served him.
These machines are designed for mines, so they come in components, and the contractor looks at what size components can fit inside the hoist cage, said James Rickard, the Fermilab resident engineer managing the excavation construction. They try to break it down as minimally as possible to fit the pieces into the 12-foot-tall cage. Long, narrow pieces are slung underneath the cage.

One of the first machines that will be brought in pieces down the shaft is a raise borer. Starting in May, the raise borer will be used to drill a pilot hole for a 1,200-foot-long ventilation shaft to increase airflow and allow heat to escape from the underground lab. After the 13-inch pilot hole is drilled, the drill is attached to a 12-foot reamer that is then pulled back up the 1,200 feet creating the full-size shaft. The shaft will be completed in fall 2021.

Other machines Thyssen will move underground include extendable forklifts called telehandlers; multifunctional skid steers; durable load, haul and dump machines; and jumbo drills that will create blasting holes. The equipment is coming to South Dakota from Thyssens headquarters in Nevada and Saskatchewan, as well as from project sites in the United States and Canada.
Spearfish adds designated parking

Downtown Spearfish will soon have six additional parking spaces designated for vehicles bearing disabled parking placards, as well as two spaces for motorcycle-only parking near the intersection of Main Street and Jackson Boulevard.

Public Safety Director Pat Rotert said several areas of the downtown central core have inadequate designated parking spaces available for vehicles with disabled parking placards, a problem which has presented itself over time via observation, as well as citizen complaints.

The designated parking spaces are expected to be marked in the next few weeks.

Museum plans June 5 brunch

The Tri-State Museum and Visitor Center in Belle Fourche will hold a First Saturday Brunch on June 5 with a presentation, Crow Dog: Courtroom Clash of Cultures.

Crow Dog was a Lakota chief whose 1881 murder of rival Spotted Tail led to a celebrated U.S. Supreme Court ruling about tribal sovereignty. During the time Crow Dog was incarcerated in Deadwood, and while under a sentence of death, he became a much-loved local celebrity.
Monument Health announced Thursday it will join in a partnership to build a new specialty hospital in Rapid City to serve the acute medical rehabilitation and long-term acute care needs of patients in the region.

The new hospital will be operated by a joint venture partnership between Monument Health and Vibra Healthcare, an industry leader that operates 29 long-term acute care and rehabilitation hospitals nationwide.

The Rehabilitation and Critical Care Hospital of the Black Hills will have 36 rehabilitation beds, as well as 18 long-term acute care beds. It will be built near the northwest corner of the Catron Boulevard and U.S. Highway 16 intersection.

Monument Healths existing rehabilitation hospital, now at The Village at Skyline Pines Assisted Living and Memory Care, will move to the new facility when construction is complete. The new Long Term Acute Care Hospital (LTACH) will be part of the new facility. It will be the first LTACH in the region.

Patients are typically at these locations for weeks on end, which puts a significant burden on their families, said Mark Longacre, vice president of operations for Monument Health in Rapid City. Its important for patients to be near their families, and were excited that we will be able to provide this care locally.

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Schoenbeck said the states relatively inexpensive advertising rates in statewide media and a low signature-collection threshold have made the state vulnerable to national advocacy campaigns that seek to pass laws that state legislatures will not.

South Dakota strongly supports its citizens right to legislate at the ballot, but out-of-staters are using us because were a cheap media market, and I dont like us being their petri dishes, he said.

Schoenbeck also told News Watch that he believes recent ballot measures have been too long and sometimes address more than one topic, making it hard for voters to know exactly what a measure will do and to make a fully informed decision. The 2020 Initiated Measure 26, which would legalize medical marijuana, contained 96 separate sections of information in its full form.

These people are dragging out these ballot measure that are 25 pages long when you could do it in two paragraphs, he said. The only reason you add volume is to confuse or to hide the full issues.
MILWAUKEE (AP)  Lois Ehlert, whose cut-and-paste shapes and vibrant hues in books including Chicka Chicka Boom Boom put her among the most popular illustrators of books for preschoolers of the late 20th century, has died. She was 86.

Publisher Simon & Schuster said that Ehlert died of natural causes on Tuesday in Milwaukee.

In 1989's Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, Ehlert created the hyper-simple brown-and-green coconut tree and the multicolored capital letters who try to gather at the top of it, threatening to bring it tumbling to the ground as the text repeats, Chicka chicka boom boom! Will there be enough room?

The book sold more than 12 million copies, according to Simon & Schuster.

She worked primarily by cutting out shapes and pasting them into collages, much like the preschoolers who were her primary audience.

In 1990, she was given a Caldecott Honor as the author and illustrator of Color Zoo, which uses basic triangles, rectangles, squares and circles to create images of animals in oversaturated oranges, purples and greens. Its only words are the names of the shapes and creatures themselves.
Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the county tests water at 80 sites to ensure it is within EPA safety standards for bacteria like those found in human waste or other forms that can be harmful if swallowed, get in the eye or come in contact with an open wound.
On the first night the Family Shelter of the Bitterroot started its Community Meals program in 2013, one homeless man on a bicycle showed up.

Gary Locke said they had to encourage another man cleaning up the churchs sanctuary to sit down and eat to get a second patron.

"I was afraid I might have to eat my hat," he said. "I was worried maybe there wasn't a need."

How things have changed.

When the program serves its last meal for the summer on Friday, it will have fed more than 9,600 people since September. As of Wednesday, volunteers had given 3,237 hours to make that possible. And the community had donated $32,499.96 in cash, food and supplies.

This program has a totally amazing amount of community support, said Locke, Family Shelter of the Bitterroots founder and board chairman. People have stepped forward to help the homeless and hungry in the Bitterroot. All of this was accomplished by folks in the Bitterroot who care enough to make a difference in peoples lives.

The record year for meals came during a year when volunteers had to take special precautions due to the coronavirus pandemic and as many people in the valley reeled from a housing market that sent rents skyrocketing.
This heartbreaking, hard-punching stunner of a novel is about grief and loss wrapped in some serious Rolling Thunder John Wick action. Cosby has created two unforgettable characters, Ike Randolph and Buddy Lee Jenkins, one Black, one white, both fathers of gay sons married to each other. Their sons have been shot multiple times in front of a fancy wine store. Ike regrets he never walked across the goddamn glacier that was his relationship with his son instead of waiting for it to melt. Buddy Lee believes his son was ashamed of him because he could sound like a cracker in an old hillbilly movie. The two fathers come together to seek revenge for their sons. Maybe redemption for themselves, too. Either way, theyre going to make things right.
Escaping the grifter lifestyle, Estella snags her dream job as a design assistant for fashion impresario the Baroness (Emma Thompson). Their relationship is similar to Cruella and Anita in 101 Dalmatians, and if you were wondering what they were going to do with that two hour-plus run time, the screenwriters have managed to stuff most of Phantom Thread into the second act.

While toiling for the Baroness, Estella takes on a Clark Kent lifestyle, moonlighting as the punky provocateur Cruella, riding around on a garbage truck in a ball gown, as a way to prank her boss. The police claim vandalism; the tabloids eat her up. But one cant help but wonder if fashion stunts can make a true villain.

Cruella torments the Baroness by constantly upstaging her, but the truth is that Thompson snatches the film right out from under Stone. The second she steps on screen in winged eyeliner and form-fitting couture as the deliciously devilish Baroness, its game-set-match between the Emmas. Though sneeringly charming and perfectly delightful, Stone never stood a chance.
Well probably die, Ward says. Some of us at least.

The group needs to sneak into the city, and thats when the script by Snyder, Shay Hatten and Joby Harold gets sly. They rely on a smuggling coyote to skulk into a walled-off American city, one of several moments that lift the material. Sean Spicer and Donna Brazile debating immigration on TV is another. And the use of temperature guns to check if zombie-fication is happening is a prescient nod to the pandemic Snyder could not have known was coming.

The Vegas that the group enters is a freaky funhouse that the filmmakers have filled with 2,500 plastic skeletons. The zombies wear an alarming amount of rhinestones and ripped clothing. But theyre awfully fun to mow down (remember, kids, always aim for the head). Here, the film makes lively nods to Escape from New York, The Matrix, Aliens and Planet of the Apes.

In addition to the zombie Elvis impersonator, theres a zombie bride still wearing her veil, and a zombie horse, but the Zack Snyder Hall of Fame Cool Deal is a zombie tiger. And it is glorious. (The filmmakers even visited Carole Baskins Big Cat Rescue of then-future Tiger King fame to make their computer critter more believable.)
Michaela Hatton sighed in relief Thursday as she left the third floor of the John Marshall Courts Building  for the last time, she noted.

For the 23-year-old, that relief came after nearly a year of facing a minimum of six months in prison for two felonies  assaulting a law enforcement officer and inciting a riot during a protest outside city police headquarters in June.

On Thursday, those charges, which she had originally pleaded no contest to in October, were reduced to misdemeanors  disorderly conduct and unlawful assembly, after Assistant Commonwealths Attorney Caitlin Robb Kelly said she was satisfied that the defendant met the requirements of a plea deal. Kelly declined to say anything further on the record.

As a social worker, its a badge of honor that she can say she was out there fighting for people, her attorney, Sara M. Gaborik, said, adding that the plea deal allowed us to be creative and find a way to resolve this without a six-month mandatory minimum hanging over her head.

On the night of June 14  the 18th straight day of demonstrations in Richmond in the aftermath of George Floyds murder  Hatton was arrested after shed crossed a police line.
Jurors recommended Edwards serve 30 years in prison, which the judge immediately imposed.

Nineteen months later, a former Sheltering Arms physician who made no effort to find his longtime girlfriend after she disappeared 3 years earlier was found guilty of her murder after prosecutors persuaded jurors with an abundance of circumstantial evidence  but without a body or a cause of death.

Jurors deliberated just under nine hours before reaching their verdict, finding John E. Gibbs III, then 40, guilty of first-degree murder in the June 7, 2014, disappearance of Zulma L. Pabon, then 26, who was a nurse at Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital. Jurors recommended Gibbs serve 50 years in prison, which a judge imposed in March 2018.

Veteran defense attorney Greg Sheldon, who represented Edwards in Namiranians disappearance and death, said one of the most challenging aspects of defending someone when no body has been recovered is you have no idea what the cause of death is.

Ive [represented defendants] in around 40 homicides, and with the average case you know exactly what caused the death, he said. You know if it was a knife or strangling or a gunshot. But in cases like this, because you have no body, you have no idea. And so they are the most circumstantial of cases.
Were getting that together and were going to be reaching out to you to get on your calendar so that we can present that to the board in your entirety, Smith said.

He also asserted that the department had reached out to the board a few times.

At Wednesdays meeting, Bill Pantele, a former City Council member and an attorney for the Richmond Coalition of Police, introduced himself, saying, The patrol officers association is here listening and happy to help.

As the discussion turned to the potential powers the eventual board will have  a discussion that has been ongoing for weeks  Smith rankled at the idea of it having the authority to fire him or his officers.

If [officers] are listening to this conversation, I know tomorrow I will be fielding a lot of concerns from a lot of officers out there that theyre not hearing a collaborative effort being developed but a confrontational effort, Smith said. I just know tomorrow my officers will be asking questions. They were already nervous about the process.

Coston, co-chair of the task force and a professor at Virginia Commonwealth University, said that to be successful, the task force needs to work with police and, more importantly, it wants to do so.
She also mentioned that she was worried about not having enough time with her child if he has to go to bed earlier. Not everyone was aware of the plan since it was mentioned very little outside of School Board meetings, which can run for up to six hours at a time, she said.

Katheryn Purgason, whose children attend Linwood Holton Elementary, said she was also stunned by the changes and hadnt budgeted for additional child care. In an interview, Kamras said that free aftercare would be available for all RPS students through 5 p.m.

The idea of year-round school, there was a lot of communication, probably too much, she said in an interview. She didnt recall similar communication methods with the bell schedule changes, which many have argued is almost as big a change as year-round school. I mean, I just like I woke up in the morning and checked my email and I was like, What? Because this is huge for us.

The move, which was approved last week in a 5-4 vote, is supported by data from pediatricians, including Dr. Danny Avula, director of the Richmond City and Henrico County Health Departments.
Xi, Spanish PM Sanchez talk on bilateral, China-Europe cooperation

Xinhua) 08:20, May 27, 2021

A China-Europe freight train carrying medical supplies bound for Madrid of Spain departs the city of Yiwu, east China's Zhejiang Province, June 5, 2020. (Photo by Lyu Bin/Xinhua)

BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- It is foreseeable that in the future, China-Europe relations will embrace new opportunities and meanwhile confront various challenges, Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Wednesday.

In a phone conversation with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, Xi noted that the key is to firmly grasp the general direction of the comprehensive strategic partnership, properly manage differences and maintain the main tone of win-win cooperation.

Xi asked Sanchez to convey his cordial greetings to King Felipe VI. Noting that China and Spain are important strategic partners and important cooperation partners, Xi said the two sides should understand and support each other.

China stands ready to work with Spain to expand bilateral trade, actively promote cooperation projects in such areas as port logistics, smart cities and clean energy, strengthen third-party cooperation with Latin America and Africa, and deepen people-to-people and cultural exchanges, Xi said.

Xi stressed that despite the COVID-19 pandemic, China-Europe practical cooperation has shown tremendous potential. He expressed his hope that the Spanish government will continue to play a constructive role in promoting the steady and long-term development of China-Europe relations.

Noting that this year marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC), Xi said the CPC maintains friendly relations with more than 560 political parties in more than 160 countries.

China and Spain, he added, should strengthen exchanges between their political parties, deepen experience sharing on state governance, and contribute wisdom to both countries' pursuit of development paths in line with their respective national conditions as well as the improvement of global governance.

The Royal Post Office building is illuminated with red light to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year at Puerta del Sol in Madrid, Spain, Feb. 11, 2021. (Xinhua/Meng Dingbo)

Sanchez conveyed King Felipe VI's sincere greetings to Xi, saying that since last year, Spain and China have gone through the test of COVID-19 and maintained sound development of their ties.

Bilateral economic and trade cooperation has achieved remarkable results, with a substantial increase in Spain's agricultural exports to China, Sanchez noted.

In the face of the severe challenges posed by COVID-19, it is all the more important for all countries to work together and uphold multilateralism, he said.

Spain is ready to work with China to maintain high-level exchanges, strengthen economic and trade cooperation, deepen cultural and people-to-people exchanges, he said, adding that his country welcomes Chinese enterprises' investments and cooperation.

Spain, he said, stands ready to continue to play a positive role in advancing the development of the strategic partnership between Europe and China.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
Habituation and stress reduction are the best method I have found to manage my tinnitus. To oversimplify, it means staying calm and learning not to view the sound as a threat. In this way, it becomes part of your normal auditory sensations. Just like you dont focus on the sound of your refrigerator, it becomes a non-threatening background noise. This, however, does not diminish the pain of those who have tinnitus so loud that they have a great deal of difficulty sleeping, listening to television, carrying on a conversation or living a normal life.
The United States will also keep working with like-minded partners around the world to press China to participate in a full, transparent, evidence-based international investigation and to provide access to all relevant data and evidence," said Biden.

His statement came after weeks of the administration endeavoring to avoid public discussion of the lab leak theory and privately suggesting it was farfetched.

In another sign of shifting attitudes, the Senate approved two Wuhan lab-related amendments without opposition, attaching them to a largely unrelated bill to increase U.S. investments in innovation.

One of the amendments, from Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., would block U.S. funding of Chinese gain of function research on enhancing the severity or transmissibility of a virus. Paul has been critical of Dr. Anthony Fauci, the government's top infectious-disease expert, and aggressively questioned him at a recent Senate hearing over the work in China. The other amendment was from GOP Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa and it would prevent any funding to the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

Both were approved without roll call votes as part of the broader bill that is still under debate in the Senate.
On that day, a drawing will be held to award 10 vaccinated people the top prize. Another 30 people will win $50,000 each, with those drawings starting June 4.

Anyone 12 and older who has received at least one shot will be eligible. The state will use its immunization database to automatically enter people into the drawings, though it's still exploring how to include those vaccinated at federal facilities, such as veterans hospitals.

Newsom said he hopes to give out all the gift cards by June 15, which would mean 2 million more people are vaccinated.

Money for the prizes will come from the states disaster response account, which will be reimbursed by federal coronavirus relief money, said Amelia Matier, a Newsom spokeswoman.

When asked if the expense is worth it, the governor replied that the cost of not getting vaccinated is exponentially, incalculably higher."

About 63% of the 34 million Californians 12 and older have gotten shots, though the pace has slowed as infection rates have plummeted to record lows. The number of people getting their first shots dropped notably in the past week, and the state is trying to not go off a cliff in the next week or two, Newsom said.
My non-Asian friends are probably more astonished that this is occurring," Lee said. "I think Chinese or Asians' have always been looked at as a positive asset. I think they are puzzled by that situation.

Barbara Canchola, 76, of El Paso, Texas, said she would have answered "not at all if she had been asked pre-pandemic if Asian Americans face racism. Canchola, who identifies as Hispanic, said she associated anti-Asian discrimination as something way in the past like Japanese American internment camps during World War II.

I really wouldnt think they are facing any kind of discrimination because I happen to think theyre very well educated  most of them  and they dont face that much scrutiny, Canchola said. However, ever since the pandemic began and it was labeled a China thing, thats where it all began."

She attributes her new outlook to all the television coverage where the people are being assaulted on the street out of the blue.
The Spotsylvania County man who was critically wounded after being shot multiple times by a county sheriffs deputy last month has been discharged from the hospital, his lawyer announced Wednesday.

Attorney David E. Haynes said 32-year-old Isiah Brown was released Tuesday and will continue his rehabilitation at home.

Haynes said doctors told the family that eight bullets were found in Browns body, along with two exit wounds.

Brown was shot early April 21 during an incident in the 12200 block of Catharpin Road. The same Spotsylvania sheriffs deputy who had given Brown a ride home earlier that night after his car broke down returned to Catharpin Road after Brown made a 911 call.

The portion of the 911 call released shortly after the shooting indicates the deputy thought that Brown had a gun, when he actually was on a cordless phone while talking with a dispatcher.

After Brown made a complaint that the dispatcher said did not merit a call to 911, Brown made a comment about killing his brother and initially told the dispatcher he had a gun. But he later said at least twice that he didnt have a gun. State police said no gun was found on Brown.
Each time, Turner is seen giving one or more packages to M.C., who then gave Turner a white envelope filled with cash, the affidavit said. Turner often is recorded counting the money afterward, then putting it in his pocket.

Investigators seized one package destined for Turners route in May 2020 and found 3 pounds of marijuana, the affidavit said. They arrested M.C. a few weeks later and found 3 pounds of marijuana in a package he just received from Turner. They also discovered a .380-caliber pistol and almost $12,000 in cash in a backpack in his vehicle.

Investigators later confronted Turner, who admitted to being paid to deliver the packages but claimed he only received a few dollars to buy himself a meal, the affidavit said. Turner was suspended immediately, according to the document.

A confidential source told investigators that Turner was paid $100 for each package and made $2,000 to $3,000 a month from the deliveries, the affidavit said.

The packages were sent from addresses in Los Angeles and Santa Ana, Calif., and usually were addressed to places in the 1300 block of Redgate or the 2600 block of Granby Street. Both blocks consist of small businesses. Most packages were never scanned as delivered.
Washington-area TV station ABC7-WJLA apologized for an anti-Muslim question one of its anchors addressed to a candidate during a televised debate Tuesday.

During an important, relevant exchange related to campaign finance during the debate, our anchor, Dave Lucas, asked an inappropriate and disrespectful question to Del. Sam Rasoul, Bill Fanshawe, senior vice president at Sinclair Broadcast Group, emailed to the Council on American-Islamic Relations, a civil rights organization.

We have reached out directly to Del. Rasouls campaign and expressed our sincere apology for this question and for the impact of these words. Rasoul is Muslim.

Lucas asked Rasoul the question during a debate between the six Democratic candidates in the June 8 primary for lieutenant governor, citing a Washington Post story that reported Rasouls fundraising relied on out-of-state donors with ties to Muslim advocacy groups.

Can you assure Virginians, if youre elected, youll represent all of them regardless of faith or beliefs? Lucas asked.
Dozens of small white flags flutter on green grass at Rivergate Park in Old Town Alexandria. Each flag represents one city resident who died of the disease caused by the coronavirus.

Titled Alexandria Remembrance, the flags  set off by white picket fencing, and a bed of red and white geraniums  are a temporary memorial where, signs say, With love, we remember our 137 friends and neighbors lost to COVID-19.

On April 6, when City Council authorized the memorial, 129 residents had died, but the numbers have had to be updated. Family members are invited to write a message or the name of a loved one on a flag. I took a closer look:

Our beloved Ray, I & the kids will love you forever and ever. Please watch over us. XOXO Vicky.

If that doesnt break your heart, well, you might not have one.

All around, life on a lovely weekday afternoon in May went on almost as usual. A father and his young son played catch. A shirtless man sat cross-legged, drinking in the sun. A couple sat talking in the cool shade.

They, I, you reading this  we  somehow survived. With vaccinations and luck, we hope to resume our lives. Our long, international nightmare appears nearly over, but not yet. Look at Japan.
Rasoul's actions, vision

earn support, praise

Editor, Times-Dispatch:

Its hard to believe, but theres another election upon us. Democratic voters will head to the polls for the June 8 primary to nominate their candidates for governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general. Though the lieutenant governor field is crowded, one candidate stands out as the best choice: Del. Sam Rasoul, D-Roanoke.

Rasoul has a reputation as a public servant who fights to help all Virginians, regardless of the district where they live. He developed that reputation the hard way: by taking time to travel to actually meet and connect with people.

He has a vision for lieutenant governor as a platform to advocate for working families, not special interest groups or lobbyists. Like me, hes a parent who was affected by the struggles of parenting during COVID-19. That experience led him to craft a Marshall Plan for Moms, which would help working mothers like myself get child care and guaranteed paid sick, medical and family leave.
Recent developments, however, tend to support the doctor (White House coronavirus adviser says we need to get to the bottom of the virus origins, May 25). It is reported that three laboratory scientists were hospitalized in November of 2019 with flu-like symptoms similar to COVID-19. Experts are now keeping an open mind on competing theories as to the virus origin. There is little chance that Democrats in the Maryland legislature will apologize to Dr. Redfield for their unfair and narrow-minded criticism. hey are what they are.
Wildlife-killing contests should be restricted

Editor, Times-Dispatch:

As the assistant secretary of agriculture for natural resources and environment under former President Jimmy Carter, a former president of Defenders of Wildlife and a former editor of Virginia Wildlife magazine, I am writing to express my intense opposition to wildlife killing contests. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources Board should prohibit the use of prizes of value in predator killing contests and discourage such contests across the commonwealth.

Wildlife-killing contests  events in which people compete for cash and prizes such as guns to kill the most, largest or even smallest animals  are the opposite of fair chase sport hunting, a commendable activity. Contests destroy beautiful animals that have made wildlife viewing a major form of outdoor recreation and they deplete populations of useful small predators that support a healthy ecosystem.
Proposal to end litter

at trout-stocked lakes

Editor, Times-Dispatch:

Having recently returned from three days of trout fishing in the North River area of George Washington National Forest, my friend and I were appalled at the litter along the North River Road and Elkhorn Lake areas. Unfortunately this is not an uncommon experience, especially on any waters where the stocking of trout by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) takes place throughout the year. These stocked trout are a source of food and recreation to many people as witnessed by the strings of fish being carried out and the beer cans, bait containers, paper wrappers and bags left behind.

Laws prohibiting litter do not work when there are so few DWR conservation officers to patrol large areas. No one pays any attention, knowing that they are not going to be caught. The DWR needs to adopt a new approach to force people to do whats right or suffer the consequences.

I propose that the DWR publicly announce that it is going to regularly inspect these areas for litter  24 hours before and one week after  any stocking of fish takes place, and, if an inordinate amount of litter is observed, there will be no stocking until it is cleaned up.
McClellan's character,

actions aid Virginians

Editor, Times-Dispatch:

What Virginia needs in its next governor is a leader who can make progress. One who, no matter the circumstances, works hard for his or her beliefs and who is capable of moving Virginia forward. As Democrats decide who they believe is the best candidate for the job, I want to offer a reminder: character and actions matter.

Over the past 15 years, I have come to know state Sen. Jennifer McClellan, D-Richmond, very well. She has served our district as a thoughtful leader. Her family, her past and her upbringing all shape the person she's become. Her perspective drives her commitment to the people of Virginia. Her character shines through in service to her community.
McClellan's policies

more equitable for all

In one early meeting in connection with her candidacy, McClellan noted that programs that discriminate against Blacks, Asian Americans, Latinos, Pacific Islanders and others harm all races as well. Everyone, regardless of skin color, loses because of discriminatory programs. McClellans astute observation provides a basis for healing and for true equality.

My mom was a medical technologist who practiced in Virginia in the 1950s to early 1960s. During this time, her life was threatened by cancer, which led to extensive, invasive treatment including surgery. While waiting for one of her surgeries, she was informed that no eligible back-up blood donors had been identified, which meant postponing her surgery. She learned that a medically viable, willing donor was available, but was Black, and therefore, was ineligible as a donor. At that time, mixed blood transfusions apparently were not allowed. Mom understood that blood is blood and she argued to go forward with her surgery regardless of the potential donors race. She had her surgery. But the mental stress and delay in her treatment surely were not conducive to her well-being, and she died in 1963.
I remember that as a child, I always felt I would never grow up and be big and articulate and intelligent, Carle told The New York Times in 1994. `Caterpillar is a book of hope: you, too, can grow up and grow wings.

Politicians like George W. Bush and Hillary Clinton were known to read the book to children on the campaign trail. The American Academy of Pediatrics sent more than 17,000 pediatricians special copies of the book, along with growth charts and parent handouts on healthy eating. Fellow writer and illustrator Ted Dewan called the book one of the pillars of childrens culture. Its almost talking about how great the Beatles were. Its beyond reproach, he said.

Carle wrote and-or illustrated more than 75 books, sometimes partnering with Bill Martin Jr. or other authors, but most with Carle working alone. One of his last books was 2015s The Nonsense Show, which centered on a parade of flying fish, cat-taming mice and circus animals.

Born to German immigrant parents in Syracuse, New York, Carle and his family returned to Germany  Nazi Germany, at the time - when he was 6. Under the Nazis, modern, expressionistic and abstract art was banned and only realistic and naturalistic art was permitted.
Archie and his baby sis are perfect for a double stroller. Bugaboo has a convertible model that expands sideways with a bassinet option. It's the Bugaboo Donkey 3 Duo, and its price tag is not for the faint of heart: $1,759 to start. The frame simply pushes back in sideways for a solo ride. It's 29 inches wide and weighs 33 pounds. It includes two seats, one bassinet, two sun canopies and a side luggage basket that can't be used in duo mode. Would be a nice group gift.

Made in France, the Charlie Crane Levo Baby Rocker in beechwood with an organic, off-white padded seat is luxury fit for modern royalty. The wood is produced in sustainably managed forests in Europe. Good for newborns to about 7 months. The rocker adapts to the childs own rhythms. $249, with an activity bar add-on sold separately. Widely available. Start at Charliecraneparis.com.

For the deliberately minimal mom and dad, there's a deliberately minimal diaper bag. It's actually more like a belly bag with a magical nylon changing pad that folds into a back compartment and attaches with Velcro. The Kibou is made of a vegan leather exterior and a stain-resistant nylon lining with a waterproof pocket that can hold wet wipes easily at reach. The bag, with a key hook, is big enough for the basics needed on a trip to the playground: sunscreen, cards and cash, a snack or two and, of course, a diaper. In six colors. $89 at Kiboubag.com and Maisonette.com.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Lilly said there was evidence that in March or April, Fridley visited a church in Narrows.

She returned to the Narrows church on May 3 and went to its childcare area, where she gave a false name for herself and said that Larry was sick and had asked her to pick up a child, Lilly said.

But church members questioned Fridley and when she gave a name for the child she was looking for, they said it was not the name of anyone there and turned her away, Lilly said.

Investigators determined that Fridley then went to another Narrows church, across the street from the first, and again said she was there to pick up a child, Lilly said. She was turned away there as well.

Fridley went on to Ripplemead and Riverview Baptist Church, where she talked to nursery workers, and pointed to Noah, saying he was the boy she was supposed to take, Lilly said.

Fridley was photographed leaving the church with Noah, Lilly said. She drove him to Clifton Forge, which is about 90 miles away, and told her boyfriend that this was his child, Lilly said.

Fridley and Taylor shaved Noahs head and took him around to meet neighbors, Lilly said.
Washington-area TV station ABC7-WJLA apologized for an anti-Muslim question one of its anchors addressed to a candidate during a televised debate Tuesday.

During an important, relevant exchange related to campaign finance during the debate, our anchor, Dave Lucas, asked an inappropriate and disrespectful question to Delegate Sam Rasoul, Bill Fanshawe, senior vice president at Sinclair Broadcast Group, emailed to the Council on American-Islamic Relations, a civil rights organization.

We have reached out directly to Delegate Rasouls campaign and expressed our sincere apology for this question and for the impact of these words. Rasoul is Muslim.

Lucas asked Rasoul, D-Roanoke, the question during a debate between the six Democratic candidates in the June 8 primary for lieutenant governor, citing a Washington Post story that reported Rasouls fundraising relied on out-of-state donors with ties to Muslim advocacy groups.

Can you assure Virginians, if youre elected, youll represent all of them regardless of faith or beliefs? Lucas asked.
In seeking the audit, the congressmans staff members outlined specific issues  some they believe are related to staffing shortages  at each of the six area locations. In an email Thursday, the staff added they had learned of high tensions among overworked employees, some of who were using overtime to cover routes.
In the letter to Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, Georgias senators said they were working on legislation to create a federal workaround or pursue other strategies to provide coverage in holdout states. The two said they want the legislation attached either to President Joe Biden's infrastructure proposal or his proposal to provide additional education and family support benefits.

They said any alternative should not require insurance premiums and should require people who are insured to cover a low share of costs, like the traditional Medicaid program. Warnock and Ossoff didnt outline how they would make up for the state share of the costs over the long term, though.

Judy Solomon, a senior fellow on health policy at the liberal-leaning Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, said one approach could be to use the federal marketplace and subsidize private insurers, creating plans with no premiums and smaller copayments. Another approach would be for the federal government to set up Medicaid-only plans in states that didn't expand the program.

Solomon said there are a lot of details to work out, but that people who were supposed to get coverage in 2014 shouldn't have to wait any longer.
CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP)  Republican political donor, investor and philanthropist Foster Friess died Thursday. He was 81.

A multimillionaire who lived in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Friess was a GOP kingmaker who donated lavishly to candidates and charitable causes over four decades.

Friess directly gave almost $7 million to hundreds of candidates since the early 1980s, federal campaign finance records show, and was perhaps best known for supporting former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorums presidential run in 2012.

Foster was just larger than life. He filled up the room when he came in, Santorum said. And when he left the room, you felt somehow impacted.

Friess campaigned for Santorum and came through with badly needed funds for television advertising ahead of his Iowa caucuses win, Santorum recalled.

He had an amazing gift for encouraging people, not just by giving to them but by believing in them," Santorum added.

Friess entered politics as a candidate only recently, running for Wyoming governor in 2018.
Today is Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Let's get caught up.

These headlines are in the news this morning: Family-friendly festival, music, moments of silence mark anniversary of George Floyd's death; a new grand jury has been seated to hear evidence in NYC's investigation of former President Trump; John Cena apologizes to fans in China for Taiwan comment.

Read on for these stories, other top headlines, celebrity birthdays and more.

TOP STORIES

Rallies, moments of silence honor George Floyd a year later

MINNEAPOLIS (AP)  A family-friendly street festival, musical performances and moments of silence were held Tuesday to honor George Floyd and mark the year since he died at the hands of Minneapolis police, a death captured on wrenching bystander video that galvanized the racial justice movement and continues to bring calls for change.
Early last year, many cybercriminals pledged not to attack essential businesses during the coronavirus outbreak out of the criminal goodness of their hearts, but a slate of recent ransomware attacks indicate that the underworld benevolence is over, apparently has economies reopen and sympathy is no longer at an all-time high



Two weeks ago, the Colonial Pipeline, the largest pipeline system for refined oil products in the U.S, paid ransom to the tune of almost $5 million.

Then, last week, it was reported that in March one of the largest insurance companies in the United States, CNA, had quietly paid $40 million to regain control of its network after a ransomware attack.

According to a Bloomberg report citing people with knowledge of the attack, the hackers were paid two weeks after company officials were locked out of their network and had valuable data stolen.

CNA has never shared any details about the attack; nor, will it comment on the ransom, saying only that it followed all laws, regulations, and published guidance, including OFACs 2020 ransomware guidance, in its handling of this matter.

Just like with terrorists, the FBI discourages organizations from paying ransom for the obvious reason that it encourages more attacks.

Although the ransomware attacks and payments are rarely disclosed to the authorities and public, the $40-million payment is bigger than any previously disclosed.

While the FBI pinned the Colonial Pipeline cyber-attack on DarkSide, an Eastern Europe-based cybercriminal hacking group, CNA said its investigation concluded that the attackers used a new variant called Phoenix CryptoLocker, malware developed by Russian Evil Corp cyber group.

Following the Colonial Pipeline attack, President Joe Biden signed an Executive Order to improve the nation's cybersecurity and protect federal government networks.

The order lays out a series of new requirements for companies that do business with the federal government, requiring companies to report certain information about cyber breaches. It also establishes a Cybersecurity Safety Review Board to analyze incidents.

Still, even last year many failed honor amongst thieves code even though health-care and other essential institutions were spared to some extent.

Yet, global ransomware attacks soared in 2020, when we saw a 62% increase in ransomware globally and 158% spike in North America over the previous year. The total amount paid, at least what was reported, was $350 million, a 311% increase over 2019.

2021 wasnt peaceful, either.

Among several, computer maker Acer has been hit by a ransomware attack in March, with the attackers demanding the largest known ransom to date--$50 million. There is no confirmation that it was paid.

In February, a water treatment plant in Florida came under cyberattack via a remote access system with the authorities claiming that the attackers wanted to poison the water supply.

Tens of thousands of organizations around the world had their email servers compromised in attacks targeting Microsoft Exchange Server. More than 30,000 organizations have been impacted since the attack began in early January until Microsoft released security updates. The company said that the attack was probably sponsored by the Chinese government.

The former U.S. administration called out the Chinese and Iranian governments over alleged attempts to hack and steal information for developing a coronavirus vaccine.

The FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) also said that state-sponsored Chinese hackers were targeting US researchers, both state-run and private, in cyberattacks seeking information on vaccines for COVID-19.

Even though both ransomware attacks, Colonial Pipeline and CNA, originated from the same region, there is not any evidence or rumors yet that they might have been state-sponsored.

By Michael Kern for Safehaven.com
Russian regulators have threatened Google with slowing down the company's traffic in the country if it failed to delete prohibited content. Russian media reported on Tuesday that for now the company has been fined $54,000 over its failure to delete content in question, which the Russian authorities see as illegal.

Russias media watchdog Roskomnadzor has given Google 24 hours to remove videos it says relate to drugs, violence, and extremism, without detailing about it, at least to the public.

The agency also accused Google of restricting access to YouTube, owned by Google, to Russian media outlets, including RT and Sputnik, and for supporting what it called extremist organizations. We will get back to extremists in a bit.

Last December, Russian authorities passed a law that gives power to Roskomnadzor to fine platforms that do not delete banned content and to control their internet traffic.

Roskomnadzor said that unless Google deletes the problematic content, it could also slow down internet speeds for users in Russia trying to access Google.

The country has already used these powers in March when it placed a punitive slowdown on Twitter after Roskomnadzor said it failed to remove around 3,000 posts.

It has also threatened to block Twitter from RuNet completely, unless the social network starts cooperating with the Russian authorities.

In March, Russia accused Facebook of violating citizens rights after the social media giant blocked access to content posted by TASS news agency.

The recent pressure on Western tech giants is part of the Russian authorities campaign to beef up what it calls its internet sovereignty. However, what is sovereignty and safety for one, is censorship for another.

Last month, Google filed its lawsuit against Roskomnadzor over the demands to remove banned content. The lawsuit concerned dozens of YouTube links to unlawful content which involved encouraging minors to join unsanctioned protests.

In January, people across Russia took to the streets to support jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. His supporters have used YouTube to criticize the government and widely to air graft to organize their activities.

During the rallies over Navalnys detention, Roskomnadzor warned Twitter, TikTok, Facebook and other sites that fines would be imposed if posts urging young people to protest were not deleted.

In April, a Moscow court fined Tik-Tok after it failed to delete content related to illegal protests.

However, even before the Navalny-related protests, Russia was increasing efforts to tighten control on online platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, with President Vladimir Putin saying the companies had become too influential.

In December 2019, Russian authorities said to have successfully implemented its so-called digital sovereignty bill, aimed at protecting the country by creating a sustainable, fenced-off national network, and successfully tested it, too.

Prior to that, they passed the Digital Economy National Program law, which requires Russia's internet providers to ensure that they can operate in the event of foreign powers acting to isolate the country online.

The measures outlined in the law include Russia building its own version of the net's address system, known as DNS. The bill would require Internet providers to make sure they can operate if foreign countries attempt to isolate the RuNet, the country's national internet infrastructure.

Currently, a dozen organizations oversee the root servers for DNS and none is in Russia. The government says the bill will reduce Russia's reliance on internet servers in the United States.
Former mayor of Buellton, Judith Dale built her career in education and continues to serve the local community as Santa Barbara County 3rd District representative to the Library Advisory Board and board member of the Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital Foundation. She can be reached at judith@hwy246.net
" " Since 2016, U.S. government employees have complained of bizarre neurological symptoms, like headaches, ringing in the ears, vertigo and even memory loss. The government has now admitted these symptoms were likely caused by directed pulses of high-power microwaves fired at the individuals by some unknown agent. Wavebreakmedia Ltd/Getty Images/Wavebreak Media

In a suburb of Washington, D.C., a woman was walking her dog. Suddenly, an intense ringing filled her ears. Her head began to ache, her face to tingle, and reportedly, her dog suffered convulsions. At the time  November 2019  the woman, according to reporting by GQ, was on staff at the White House.

A year later, in November 2020, another U.S. official had the same symptoms while crossing a park just outside the White House building. For the Department of State, the two cases must have felt like deja vu. Each marked a suspected instance of "Havana Syndrome," a bizarre illness that had plagued overseas U.S. government employees for half a decade. Only this time, it was happening on U.S. soil.

Recently, experts have concluded that this strange condition is likely caused by directed pulses of high-power microwaves fired at a target by some unknown agent. It sounds like something out of a Dan Brown novel, but "Havana Syndrome" is terrifyingly real.

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What Happened in Havana?

In late 2016, around two dozen U.S. government employees stationed at the U.S. Embassy in Havana, Cuba were all struck with a variable and mysterious set of symptoms. Many reported an odd ringing in the ears; some experienced sudden headaches coupled with disorientation. In severe cases, the symptoms escalated, blossoming into memory problems and bouts of extreme vertigo.

Even more worrying was the pattern that emerged as the employees came forward. "These were not random individuals," says James Giordano, a professor of neurology at Georgetown University and senior fellow in biosecurity at the Naval War College. "These were individuals with specific job descriptions and particular career history."

Later, when the government personnel who were potentially exposed had their brains scanned using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), experts found that they had significantly less white matter than expected  a clinical sign usually associated with head trauma. None of their skulls, however, showed any sign of injury. It was as if they had somehow been given a contactless concussion.

And their issues didn't go away. Four-and-a-half-years later, a number of the afflicted personnel still report neurological side effects, like periods of disorientation and difficulty recalling words. "Upon subsequent reevaluation, in many cases," Giordano says, "their symptoms had gotten worse."

The Havana incident quickly became a medical mystery: What could have caused these symptoms to crop up, seemingly out of nowhere, in otherwise healthy individuals?

In 2020, the precisely named Standing Committee to Advise DOS on Unexplained Health Effects on U.S. Government Employees and their Families at Overseas Embassies released a report assessing evidence from this case, as well as a similar one at the U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou, China. It concluded that "many of the distinctive and acute signs, symptoms, and observations reported by DOS employees are consistent with the effects of directed, pulsed radio frequency (RF) energy."

Those radio frequency pulses are known by another name  microwaves. But instead of popping popcorn, they're being put to a much more destructive use.

" " U.S. Marines stand outside the Embassy of the United States of America in Havana, in February 2018. Two years earlier, around two dozen U.S. government employees stationed there were struck with a mysterious set of symptoms, now known as 'Havana Syndrome.' ADALBERTO ROQUE/AFP via Getty Images

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Micro Waves, Big Impacts

High power microwave pulses have all sorts of technological applications, from returning energy collected by orbiting solar panels to jamming enemy communication in combat zones. Aimed at a human body, the effects are not pleasant.

In enclosed, fluid-filled spaces  the inner ear, for example  microwave pulses can create an effect known as "cavitation," in which the fluid essentially bubbles. And since the blood vessels connected to the inner ear run directly to the brain, these bubbles can make their way into the brain itself. There, they can cause problems similar to the decompression sickness (the bends) divers sometimes experience after surfacing too quickly.

Another issue is vibration. Microwaves cause molecules to vibrate rapidly ( this is how a microwave oven heats up your food). Inside the body's cells and tissues, this agitation can trigger a runaway inflammatory response resulting in all kinds of structural damage, including neuropathy.

But wouldn't microwave activity leave burn marks? Not necessarily, according to some experts.

In a livestream with the Santa Fe Council on International Relations, Edl Schamiloglu, a plasma physicist and engineer at the University of New Mexico, pointed out that short microwave pulses wouldn't singe their target. "There's hardly any energy content in them," he said, and so "you're not going to have any burns." However, repeated exposure to such pulses could culminate in severe neurologic symptoms.

So it seems possible, even probable, that the so-called "Havana Syndrome" is caused by high power microwaves. But if that's the case, what kind of technology could deliver those pulses? And, more importantly, who is responsible for wielding it?

" " The exterior of the White House is seen wrapped with security fencing March 7, 2021. But can President Joe Biden and other White House staff be protected from a microwave attack from an unknown source? Sarah Silbiger/Getty Images

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From Russia, With Love?

It's hard to say for sure. As Schamiloglu pointed out in his CIR livestream, the gear necessary to create direct high power microwaves isn't something you can pick up at your local hardware store. "This technology is not something that a tinkerer can put together in their garage," he said, "This is a nation state developed technology."

The groundwork for such a device has been in development in Russia since the early 2000s, and similar technology was recently unveiled in China. But these systems are roughly the size of a lounge chair  not exactly portable or discrete. The real breakthrough for a high-power microwave weapon would be in scaling it down. Assuming that is the type of device at play here, it represents a real technological leap forward.

There are ways to protect against microwave attacks, but most of them involve wrapping a room (or an individual) in a continuous sheet of metal, which is not a terribly practical solution. However, new defensive technologies may be in development.

Giordano is not at liberty to get into specifics, but notes that he is "very encouraged" by the Biden Administration's response to the D.C. cases. Though none of the most recent attacks are in his professional portfolio, he believes that they utilized the same mechanism as the Havana incidents, a tie that should be closely examined in order to protect U.S. officials. "The new administration certainly takes this seriously," he says, "As they should."

Now That's Interesting Decompression sickness, also known as the bends, is caused when tiny nitrogen bubbles are released from bodily tissues into the blood due to extreme pressure changes.
The current COVID-19 fuss has caused adverse effects on the business industry. However, as businesses transform seamlessly to accommodate changes caused by the pandemic, the e-commerce industry has experienced a boom for a niche of products. Even in a marketplace platform such as Amazon, sellers have noticed at least 8 products that customers frequently add to their carts.

Buying Trends in 2021

Industry influencers often determine buying trends, and the current customer behavior is fast shifting towards trending products. Thankfully, social media has a hand in promoting buying trends for most products in 2020 and 2021.

8 Amazon Items That Are Flying Off The Shelves

With thousands of products today, some people rely on social media recommendations and reviews that back bestsellers in the online market. In this regard, let us explore 8 Amazon Items you can feel confident purchasing this spring.

1. Little Green Machine
Made-in-Vietnam wooden products

Made-in-Vietnam wooden products conquer US market

Boasting huge production advantages and capitalising on good market opportunities, Vietnams furniture sector has stood firm amid COVID-19 and improved its position in the global market and especially in the US.

Vietnamese furniture has been favoured by US distributors. (Photo: VNA)

Insiders, however, have said that in order to gain the lions share of the market and maintain its standing, the sector needs to adopt more effective measures to help Made-in-Vietnam products meet international standards on sustainable development.



Moving ahead



Vietnam has overtaken China as the largest exporter of wood furniture to the US, according to the US-based Furniture Today website.



Despite the trade disruptions, the country shipped over 7.4 billion USD worth of furniture to the US last year, up 31 percent compared to 2019. By way of comparison, Chinas export value was 7.33 billion USD, down 25 percent.



While the gap is relatively small, Vietnams position on the world stage reveals how it has grown in importance over the years.



A more dramatic shift has occurred over the past two and a half years, after the US Government imposed tariffs as high as 25 percent on almost all furniture categories exported from China, encouraging many manufacturers to move away from the country.



In a recent online conference with Vietnamese businesses, US distributors said that since the US Government slapped tariffs on Chinese furniture they have sought new suppliers and Vietnam is the leading choice.



Most furniture for bedrooms, kitchens, and offices now comes from Vietnam, they added.



Sales of Vietnamese wooden products have enjoyed robust growth over recent years and the US would import more Vietnamese furniture if not for COVID-19.



According to Tran Lam Son, marketing director and quality manager at the Thien Minh Production Trading Export Import Company Limited, in previous years, international buyers rushed to China in March and April to study their wooden products and place orders. Vietnam, meanwhile, was their second choice.



This year, Vietnamese furniture is more preferable, he said, adding that the country has substantial opportunities in the US, where the housing market is on the rise.

Inside a furniture processing workshop of WOODSLAND Tuyen Quang company (Photo: VNA)

Sustainable development a necessity



Becoming a leading furniture supplier to the US is a major opportunity for Vietnam to promote the production of wooden items, but manufacturers must meet requirements regarding sustainable development and guarantee their timber is of legal origin, experts have said.



Chairman of the Dong Nai Association of Wood and Handicrafts Le Xuan Quan said Vietnamese associations need to take drastic action to raise awareness among local businesses about the significance of following international rules and standards.



The State, meanwhile, should outline mechanisms to control input materials, shadow investments, and identify tax evasion activities, he said, saying that these are crucial for Vietnams wood sector to sharpen its focus on market development and affirm its existing position.



Several firms, he pointed out, have faced anti-dumping petitions from the US and the Republic of Korea and been accused of using illegal timber sources.



There was a time when Chinese-made exports masqueraded as Vietnam-made goods, threatening domestic production and legitimate exports, he stressed.



Julie Hundersmarck, a Programme Specialist at the US Forest Service, said that the US market is opening its doors wider to Vietnamese furniture exporters, adding that relevant authorities in the US have deployed various tools to ensure exporters comply with legal timber rules.



Experts also noted that Vietnamese firms need to prevent origin fraud, since the US is a large and strict market in terms of trade fraud and tax evasion.

Source: VNA
Graham said the only reason Joe Biden's administration was looking into the theory  the administration shut down a previous inquiry from the Trump administration  is because it is untenable not to.

"We need to find out what happened so it never happens again," Graham said. "If the source of COVID-19 that turned the world upside down is from a lab in China, we need to hold China accountable for allowing that to happen.

The hosts said that the intelligence community thinks the virus came from either a wet market  the Chinese buy a lot of their animals used for meat while the animals are still alive  or from a lab in Wuhan. The latter origin theory was initially rejected by experts last year when Trump suggested it but has regained traction in recent days.

The hosts described a previous interview with Mark Meadows, Trump's chief of staff, about an exchange on the origins of the virus between John Kennedy, a U.S. senator from Louisiana, and Anthony Fauci, considered one of the architects of the United States' response to COVID-19, over the origins of the virus. The hosts then played clips of Graham asking Fauci if researchers had found an animal that could have spread COVID-19 (Fauci said no) and asking Fauci how much longer the research looking for an animal origin would continue (Fauci was noncommittal).

'You don't have to be Sherlock Holmes to figure this out," Graham said. "If the first cases of COVID-19 occurred in November with lab workers  doesn't that make it more likely than not that the source of the virus was in the lab, not a wet market? So I think it's becoming increasingly clear: we haven't found an animal yet that is a good host for the virus. If the first cases involved lab workers in Wuhan, it's most likely they got it in the lab.

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I have witnessed a superintendent who epitomizes the criteria for this award and has been committed to school health and school nursing since my arrival as an employee, Lewis wrote. COVID-19 has placed many challenges on school nurses this year. I know firsthand how my job has changed since last year. I have spent countless hours on weekends and after the school day to make sure students, staff and their families are taken care of. I have never once doubted Dr. OMalleys commitment to the COVID guidelines set forth by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control and the CDC. Dr. OMalley, along with his leadership team, has always made me feel supported and has stood by any decision I have made to make sure my school stays safe. He made sure that the necessary supplies were obtained like infrared scanners for temperature screenings, masks, hand sanitizer stations, social distancing markers, and so much more. However, the most evident action of his commitment is when he stops by my school on visits. When I see him in the building, I know he isnt going to skip my room. He has always checked on me and asked me how things were going and if there was anything I needed.  Our district has a motto of Students First and I genuinely believe that everything he does puts students first.
2. Seafood, Lobster, and more Lobster

When coming to Maine, the first thing that comes to mind usually is lobster. At the center of the working waterfront, there is no shortage of amazing seafood. If you want to try your hand at preparing your own fresh seafood, including lobsters of all sizes, we cant say enough good things about our neighbors, Harbor Fish Market on Custom House Wharf. A great combination of both an extensive variety and straight-off-the-boat freshness. If you want someone else to cook your lobster, our neighbors and friends Lukes Lobster, located on the neighboring Portland Pier, offer the perfect mix of salt air, water views, and delectable lobster rolls. Or swing by Js Oyster on the same pier for a mix of seafood dishes including, of course, fresh oysters on the half shell. And if were talking seafood, we have to mention Eventide Oyster Co. who is known for their lobster rolls and, of course, their oysters. With an intimate dining room, which often comes with a long line, their award-winning dishes are well worth the wait. Better yet, try a lobster roll at each one and decide for yourself who serves it best!
 AG Garland announces new(?) federal effort to reduce violent crime | Main | In contrast to Ninth Circuit panel, Eleventh Circuit panel gives narrow reading to FIRST-STEP-amended mandatory-minimum safety valve provision 

As reported in this Baltimore Sun article, headlined "Corrupt former Baltimore Police officers get sentences reduced from 454 years to 20 years," a couple of crooked cops this week got their sentences reduced considerably to undo the now-repealed harshness of severe stacking mandatory minimum 924(c) counts thanks to the FIRST STEP Act. Here is a summary from the press account:

Two former Baltimore Police officers sentenced to a combined 454 years in federal prison for shaking down citizens in the early 2000s had their prison terms reduced to 20 years each by a federal judge Monday.

U.S. District Judge Theodore D. Chuang agreed with arguments put forward by attorneys for William King and Antonio Murray earlier this year under the First Step Act, noting that since their convictions in 2006 Congress has passed sentencing reforms that would have led to significantly shorter sentences if the officers were sentenced today....

The U.S. Attorneys Office agreed that the sentences should be reduced, but to 30 years for Murray, and 65 years for King. Neither sentence is unreasonable given the offense conduct in this case, Assistant U.S. Attorney Sandra Wilkinson wrote.

The officers attorneys noted that former Gun Trace Task Force Sgt. Wayne Jenkins, who pleaded guilty to years of robberies and drug dealing, received 25 years in prison in 2018.... Chuang agreed, saying 20 years for King and Murray roughly corresponds with the type of sentences presently imposed in comparable police corruption cases in this District....

Prior to the Gun Trace Task Force case, the case of King and Murray was one of the highest-profile Baltimore police corruption cases. The officers, who were assigned to the BPDs public housing drug unit, were called out in the Stop Snitching underground video, with a man on the tape saying the officers looked out for certain drug dealers. A man they shook down went to the FBI, and authorities launched an investigation that found the officers were detaining and robbing drug dealers.

At the time, the officers maintained that their activities were all in furtherance of legitimate police activity in an effort to develop sources to lead to arrests of drug distributors, said prosecutors, adding the officers claimed they used their ill-gotten money to pay informants who could help them catch those higher up in the drug gangs. King later said the tactics were imported by the departments New York police leadership, and blamed immense pressure to reduce crime as the reason he and some colleagues went bad.

The men were convicted of robbery, extortion, and drug and handgun offenses, which each had penalties that were stacked at sentencing. The sentencing judge, J. Frederick Motz, lamented at the time that the sentences were absolutely disproportionate to the crimes that were committed but said he had no discretion to depart from the mandatory sentencing laws.
 In contrast to Ninth Circuit panel, Eleventh Circuit panel gives narrow reading to FIRST-STEP-amended mandatory-minimum safety valve provision | Main | "The Persistence of Penal Disenfranchisement: Suppressing Votes the Old Fashioned Way" 

The title of this post is the headline of this notable recent lengthy Des Moines Register piece. Here are excerpts:

Four years ago, juvenile justice advocates celebrated a huge win: North Carolina ended its status as the last state in the nation that automatically considered anyone 16 years old or older an adult in the criminal justice system. When North Carolina raised the age to 18, the change was more than a dozen years in the making. Now, advocates are setting their sights  and their desired age limit  higher.

And they're winning. Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Illinois raised or are looking to increase the age of juvenile jurisdiction through age 20 or created separate courts or parole allowances for those ages 18 to 25. Similar bills have moved or are being considered in California, Colorado, Washington, D.C., and Florida. Backed by evidence of racial disparities, court cases and research showing a persons brain isnt fully developed until at least 25, states see kids as kids and emerging adults as not fully developed and still prone to immature behavior.

We've really seen a reversal of the trend in the 90s, which was to treat more children as adults  sort of the adult crime and adult time mindset, said Karen Lindell, senior attorney with the Juvenile Law Center. Studies showed minors sentenced in the adult system not only committed more crimes upon release than peers in the juvenile system but also engaged in more serious crimes, Lindell said.

U.S. Supreme Court rulings struck down the death penalty for juveniles and ended mandatory life without parole in all but homicide cases  then for all crimes. Faced with the research and those rulings, state officials started looking at trends showing juvenile crime rates were plummeting. In 2019  the latest year data is available  minors accounted for the fewest arrests in nearly 40 years, roughly 700,000, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. The biggest drops in juvenile crime were over the past 10 years  a 58% drop overall and a 40% falloff in violent crime. By comparison, the department said violent crime among adults was down 7%.

Forty-seven states automatically charge those under 18 as juveniles for all but the most serious offenses, such as murder or sexual assault. Michigan and Missouri joined the list over the past year. Michigan is working on the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act, which would give people ages 17 to 23 the chance to wipe even felonies from their records. "No state should want to be the last jurisdiction to automatically prosecute and sentence youth under 18 as adults," said Lael Chester, director of the Emerging Adult Justice Project at Columbia Universitys Justice Lab.

Officials in the remaining three states  Georgia, Wisconsin and Texas  have considered bumping the cutoff age to 18. All three states set the age at 17. It's not just the ceiling for juvenile jurisdiction being raised: The floor is being lifted as more states increase the age at which minors can first enter the juvenile system. Massachusetts set the floor at age 12. Illinois lifted it to 14.

As on most state-level changes, states look to their peers for guidance, said Anne Teigen, the program director for juvenile justice at the National Conference of State Legislatures. Other state lawmakers are looking at Vermont. That state set the age of juvenile jurisdiction through age 18 last year, and that limit will increase to 19 in July 2022 and 20 in 2024. Vermont started moving in the direction of raising the age in 2016, when then-Gov. Peter Shumlin, a Democrat, signed a law enabling anyone 21 or younger charged with a nonviolent crime to be eligible for juvenile offender status....

Recently, Illinois lawmakers have debated a bill that would raise the age for juvenile consideration to those under 21 and separately, a measure to reintroduce parole to the state  something that was ended in 1978. Illinois, like other states, says adulthood begins at 21 for alcohol and tobacco use, so the same age should be applied to criminal behavior, said state Sen. Laura Fine, a Democrat. "Their brains are not fully developed," Fine said. "And if you put yourself in their position, think of what you did when you were 18. A lot of people were lucky because they did stupid things, and they didn't get caught."

Many law enforcement organizations oppose the move, and the bill, which won early support, stalled as lawmakers worked on other major criminal justice changes, such as getting rid of cash bail. "We think that what people do when they're 20 or 21 is quite a bit different from what people do when they're 13 and 14. And the kinds of opportunities that we give to 13- and 14-year-olds seem rather appropriate most of the time," said Ed Wojcicki, executive director of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, which opposes the measure....

If the Illinois bill becomes law, Columbia University's Chester said, it could swing other states in that direction. Illinois would be the second state to move in that direction, but it would be a big deal," Chester said. "As momentous as Vermont is, it's a very small state. And I think the bigger states, having Illinois with a very large population  the big city of Chicago  that is more influential on the national stage.
Ballet star Carla Fracci, seen here meeting Pope Francis in 2017, was best known for playing Giselle

Carla Fracci, Italy's most celebrated ballet dancer best known for her performances as Giselle, has died at the age of 84, Milan's La Scala opera house announced Thursday.

Educated at La Scala from an early age before rising to become its prima ballerina, Fracci went on to light up stages around the world, partnering stars such as Rudolf Nureyev and Mikhail Baryshnikov.

She left the Milan theatre in 1963 in search of more money and opportunities, but was always drawn back, most recently giving two online master classes there in January.

"We will always think of her with affection and gratitude, remembering the smile of the final days we spent together, where she felt she had come home," said its director, Dominique Meyer.

"With Maria Taglioni (the 19th-century dancer), Carla Fracci was the most important person in the history of dance at La Scala," he added.

Elegant to the last and always dressed in white, the dancer known in Italy simply as "La Fracci" died in Milan after suffering for some time from a tumour, the daily La Repubblica reported.

Prime Minister Mario Draghi led the tributes, describing her as "an artist of extraordinary talent... an example of passion for entire generations".

- Romantic roles -

Born on August 20, 1936, in Milan, the daughter of a tram driver and a factory worker, Fracci had dreamed of being a hairdresser -- and her start in ballet was not entirely promising.

A New York Times profile in 1981 revealed that she almost failed the ballet school entrance exam, and struggled with classes at first.

"School was a crashing bore and a terrible chore, until one day when I was cast as the girl with the mandolin in 'Sleeping Beauty'," she told the newspaper back then.

"Once on stage, next to Margot Fonteyn, I suddenly changed my mind.

"Dancing to an audience was something entirely different from dancing at school. I started working very hard to catch up for the lost time."

Story continues

After leaving La Scala she went freelance, with the support of her husband, set designer Beppe Menegatti, with whom she had a son.

Hailed for her dramatic approach to dancing, her technical skill and lightness, she was known for classic romantic roles such as Giselle and Juliet, but she also took part in original commissions.

She starred in a number of films and in her later years directed numerous major ballet companies in Italy, notably in Naples, Verona and, for a decade from 2000, the Rome Opera Ballet.

In 2004, she was named goodwill ambassador for the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Manuel Legris, director of La Scala's ballet corps, said her death "leaves us astonished, on tiptoe like Giselle, a spirit who remains with us, filling the ballrooms, the stage and our hearts."

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When the radio host got back on the ground and into a warm building, it was one of the best days of my life. (The climb) was extremely exciting, but I dont like the cold.

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Those who work on wind turbines are heroes because they make sure we get power in our homes in a clean way.

Executive Producer Travis Shakespeare says the National Geographic series celebrates the resilience of being able to bounce back from any number of things.

Bones figures his flirtation with fear can be traced to childhood, when he was searching for love. Thats why I got on stage to do comedy. Thats why I was able to get behind a microphone and do radio or even TV. I didnt have a lot of love growing up. And I started to find love in those places, but I also knew thatI wasnt alone.

Thats why Ive pushed through this. Ive hated doing a lot of these actual missions, but there was never a second that I was gonna not do them. Ive grown about 10 feet tall after this season.

Fans got a chance to see just how daring Bones could be when he appeared on Dancing with the Stars in 2018. Thats possibly the scariest thing Ive ever done, he says. I dont know how to dance, but I attacked it.
McCollister said the proposal would give more families a new lease on life, by raising the cutoff to qualify. The law will temporarily allow families to qualify if their gross income is 165% or less of the federal poverty level  $43,725 for a family of four. Under current Nebraska law, the same family could only qualify if they make 130% or less of the federal level, or $34,450.

Please remember that SNAP recipients are our friends, neighbors and fellow church members, said McCollister, of Omaha.

The argument didn't sway some conservative lawmakers, who viewed it as expansion of the welfare state, but lawmakers voted by the narrowest possible margin, 30-19, to override Ricketts.

You want to do your good works with your neighbor's tax dollars, because that's what we're doing here, said Sen. Mike Groene, of North Platte.

Senators voted 32-15 to override the veto of the heating-assistance bill. The sponsor, Sen. Tom Brandt, of Plymouth, said allowing more people to qualify would solve a bureaucratic problem with the program.
NEW YORK (AP)  Nine current and former New York City Department of Correction workers were arrested Wednesday on charges alleging they took cash bribes to smuggle items including razor blades, drugs and alcohol into city jails in the last two years.

U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss in Manhattan said the workers accepted thousands of dollars in bribes.

"This alleged activity violated the defendants duties, and endangered the inmates they were charged to supervise and guard, Strauss said in a release.

Seven individuals, ranging in age from 25 to 60, were arrested in New York, one in Pennsylvania and one in Virginia based on indictments returned against seven men and two women in Manhattan federal court.

Authorities alleged that one defendant pocketed over $40,000 in bribes between June 2019 and September 2020.

Department of Investigation Commissioner Margaret Garnett said the documents describing how guards and other employees, the majority working at the Rikers Island jail complex, were engaging in contraband smuggling and bribery reflect the pernicious and damaging impact of corruption.
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WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden on Wednesday ordered U.S. intelligence officials to redouble their efforts to investigate the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, including any possibility the trail might lead to a Chinese laboratory.
SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP)  A gunman who killed nine people at a California rail yard where he worked appeared to target some of the victims, a sheriff told The Associated Press on Thursday, while a Biden administration official said the shooter spoke of hating his workplace when customs officers detained him after a 2016 trip to the Philippines.
The 47-year-old inmate who died Monday at FCI Mendota, a medium-security prison just west of Fresno, was serving a more than four-year sentence for illegally reentering the United States after being deported. Juan Ramon Rodriguez-Barbosa was being held in the prisons segregated housing unit and was found hanging by officers who were making their required checks of inmates in the unit every 30 minutes, the people familiar with the matter said. They could not discuss the details of the incident publicly and spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.

The Bureau of Prisons said responding staff members immediately initiated life-saving measures and called for emergency medical crews, but Rodriguez-Barbosa was pronounced dead at the scene.

The agency insists that there was an immediate response to the medical call and an appropriate number of staff members responded. But there were others who normally wouldve responded to such a call and couldnt.

At the time of the incident, about half of the prison's correctional officer posts were filled by workers whose regular duties do not include guarding inmates. The Bureau of Prisons says all prison workers are trained as correctional workers, regardless of position or job title. Fully staffed, there would have been more first responders rushing to the emergency call.
PHOENIX (AP)  The Arizona House on Wednesday voted down a bill that would have required voters to include identification with their mail-in ballots, a defeat for Republicans looking to impose more restrictive voting procedures.

The bill was one of the most contentious of the dozens of voting rights bills that Arizona Republicans introduced following former President Donald Trump's narrow loss in the longtime GOP stronghold. Influential business leaders, including the owner of the Arizona Cardinals, publicly urged lawmakers to reject it.

Voting by mail is overwhelmingly popular in Arizona, where nearly 90% of 2020 voters used a ballot that arrived in the mail.

The bill, SB1713, would have required voters to include their birthday and an ID number with their ballots. Acceptable ID numbers included a driver's license, voter registration, tribal ID or the last four digits of a Social Security number.

Democrats said the bill would have led to the rejection of votes from people who don't know the new rules or don't have easy access to the required ID numbers.

We need a healthier democracy, and we need to make sure that everyones voice is heard, said Rep. Raquel Teran, a Democrat from west Phoenix who is also chairwoman of the Arizona Democratic Party.
In the U.S., 45% of all pregnancies are unintended and approximately half are among people who were not using contraception. For Hispanic women, 50% of pregnancies are unintended and Latina youth experience pregnancy at roughly twice the rate of their white counterparts, according to the bill.

Karla Gonzales Garcia, policy director for Colorado Organization for Latina Opportunity and Reproductive Rights which helped craft the bill, said access to reproductive care is about justice just as much as health and that the bill ensures Colorado does not leave anyone behind simply based on a piece of paper."

Immigration status nor income should determine who gets to care for themselves and their families, who gets to decide when they become parents and build a family or who is denied care and support, she said.

The bill's fiscal note estimates that around 27,000 people are eligible for the program and will enroll, which could avoid 200 unintended pregnancies each year and may save the state an average of $10,765 per pregnancy.

Irene Jaw, a nurse practitioner in Douglas County, who testified in support, noted that birth control availability is important because its also used for complex health issues like pelvic pain, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, abnormal uterine bleeding and endometriosis.
Childrens Hospital Colorado, which operates 16 urgent, emergency and specialty locations statewide, saw a 72% increase systemwide in behavioral health emergency department visits from January through April compared with the same period in 2019, officials said.

Dr. Jenna Glover, director of psychology training at the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, said the concern is that children will develop long-term affects. Children are coping with pandemic stress primarily through substance use, withdrawal from normal involvement and eating-disorder behavior, she said.

Its not going to go away next year, she said. Now they just have to reengage in life, and they dont have the resources. Theyre burned out. Theyre hopeless.

Colorado Springs has seen a steady increase of children in both group and individual therapy since the coronavirus pandemic began, Pikes Peak Suicide Prevention Executive Director Cass Walton said. There was a surge the past three months along with more inquiries from parents needing help navigating the system and seeking advice, she said.

Our community is responding to this complex issue, Walton said. But it is going to take time and resources to really get a handle on it.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)  One of South Carolina's top Democratic lawmakers wants the state to use some of its COVID-19 relief money to offer $1 million prizes to people who get vaccinated for the disease, similar to a program in Ohio.
Connecticut legislators on Wednesday moved closer to making amends with a Hartford woman who helped in the identification, arrest and conviction of a man nearly 70 years ago, when she was a teenager who had been assaulted by him.

The House of Representatives voted unanimously in favor of a bill that finally issues a $3,000 reward that had been denied to the woman, who is now in her 80s and known by the pseudonym Patricia Pidgie DAllessio. It's a name used to protect her anonymity in a book describing the crimes in the southwestern section of the city in 1953.

Its hard to believe that we sometimes have the ability to redress injustices of the past, but this is a case where we have an opportunity to grant a small measure of justice to an individual, said Rep. Edwin Vargas, D-Hartford.

As a teen, the woman was grabbed from behind while walking along a Hartford street, forced into a backyard and sexually assaulted on a rainy night in 1953, according to the Hartford Courant. Vargas said the woman and her parents reported the assault to the Hartford Police Department but it was not taken seriously, even though there was evidence the man tried to strangle her with a scarf.
Portraits of James Scurlock remain scattered across Omaha a year after his fatal shooting.

The plywood displaying his likeness that had covered the windows of a downtown coffee shop last summer now are held in the Durham Museum basement archives.

A billboard that demanded "Justice for James," which was briefly posted at 72nd and Dodge streets, now is tucked away at the Great Plains Black History Museum.

And in the neighborhood where Scurlock grew up, a massive mural honoring "JuJu World" has weathered months of storms outside the Easy Drive Package convenience store.

Those permanent relics ensure that a piece of the story of what happened to the 22-year-old will endure  both to remind those who observed last summers cascading events and to teach future generations.

For the Scurlock family, the touching tributes are not worth the loss of their loved one's life.

Its a very heavy price, said Scurlock's father, James Scurlock II.

For Omaha, some historians say, the case was reminiscent of past violent events and responses in Omahas history and again exposed the citys racial divisions, raised questions of fairness in the justice system and spurred extended protests.

It also sparked tense conversations online, in person and in the streets.

Scurlocks killing last year swiftly triggered a local rallying cry amid a national reckoning on race relations and policing after George Floyd was murdered by a white Minneapolis police officer.

On May 30, 2020, bar owner Jake Gardner, 38, fatally shot Scurlock after an 18-second struggle in the Old Market outside a bar Gardner owned near 12th and Harney Streets. That launched a tumultuous and tangled web of events, decisions, marches and press conferences for 114 days until Gardner died by suicide, ending the possibility of more answers being revealed at trial.

Even though some reminders remain around town, a person walking by the spot where Scurlock died wouldn't know what happened there last May. Days after the shooting, Gardner was evicted from The Hive and the next-door Gatsby nightclub. The space sits empty today.

Theres no marker, nothing on the landscape  its just something that happened in the past. That is what is dangerous, when we forget these stories, said Ashley Howard, an assistant professor at the University of Iowa who grew up in Omaha. Scurlock is not a hashtag, Gardner is not a cause celebre  just like Scurlock didnt have a chance to tell his side, Gardner didnt, either. That story is just gone, and people can fill in the gaps with whatever agenda or narrative they want to put in there.

By the end of May 2020, three factors had created conditions that culminated in thousands of people gathering at 72nd and Dodge Streets for demonstrations that ended in confrontations with law enforcement officers:

 In Nebraska and elsewhere, people already had lived through about two and a half months of the worldwide coronavirus pandemic, which led to job losses, school closures and people isolating in their homes.

 The deeply divisive 2020 presidential campaign was in full swing, with Joe Biden the apparent Democratic nominee in the race to unseat then-President Donald Trump, whose words and actions were regarded by many as exacerbating the nation's racial divide.

 And a string of incidents involving Black people had been captured on video: the Floyd killing; a confrontation between a Black birdwatcher in New Yorks Central Park and a white woman who had let her unleashed dog run free; and the fatal shooting of Ahmaud Arbery as he was jogging in Georgia. (A 911 call about the fatal police shooting of Breonna Taylor, which occurred in Louisville, Kentucky, in March, was released in late May.)

It was like a trifecta, said Cynthia Robinson, an associate professor and chair of the Department of Black Studies at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. The policing of Black bodies has always gone on, but now people are seeing it. Now were home and we have more time, because of the virus. And we have presidential leadership (in 2020) who is really letting it be known, 'Do this. It is OK to do this.'

Emotions were high the night Scurlock was killed. The evening before, more than 2,000 people had attended a Black Lives Matter protest outside Crossroads Mall at 72nd and Dodge, the spot known for demonstrations and celebrations alike. The peaceful gathering soon turned chaotic, with police in riot gear firing pepper balls and gas canisters while some protesters threw objects at officers, broke business windows and tried to smash police cruiser windows.

Emboldened and angry, many protesters returned to the site again Saturday night. When Omaha police forced them from the area, some went downtown, where more mayhem occurred, including vandalism and graffiti.

Gardner, a former Marine, had gone to protect his bar from vandals and pull a "military style firewatch, as he put it on Facebook. Scurlock, who was at the initial protest, headed downtown with friend Tucker Randall to let off steam, Randall has told The World-Herald.

Scurlock, who police say can be seen on video from earlier in the evening vandalizing an office near 13th and Harney streets, ultimately collided with Gardner outside The Hive bar. The confrontation started with Randall pushing Gardners father, David Gardner, who was pushing a woman and who Randall had said was yelling racial epithets.

Jake Gardner lifted his shirt to reveal his handgun, then grabbed it briefly and put it back in his waistband. Passer-by Alayna Melendez tackled Gardner into the street and ran away when he fired two shots.

Seconds later, Scurlock jumped on Gardner and held an arm around his upper chest. The two struggled as Gardner yelled for Scurlock to get off of him.

Switching the gun to his left hand, Gardner fired one shot, striking Scurlock in the neck.

Gardner told police he acted in self-defense. Scurlocks family contends that Scurlock is a hero who tried to subdue an armed man.

Brenness Long, 33, who with his mother owns the Easy Drive Package convenience store at 24th Street and Camden Avenue where the Scurlock mural is displayed, offered a distant observer's view of what happened:

They were both in the wrong, in my eyes, Long said. Neither Scurlock nor Gardner, he said, should have been outside the bar that night, taking matters into their own hands.

Long agreed to let someone paint the mural on his building because he wanted to do something to help the community. The mural was designed and painted by 29-year-old artist Hugo Zamorano and others, including one of Scurlocks brothers.

I wanted to do something, and I wasnt going out to the protests," Zamorano said. "I have a little more pull and power with my art than I do my physical appearance.

Two days after the shooting, Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine announced that he would not bring charges against Gardner, determining that Gardner had shot Scurlock in self-defense.

Public outcry over Kleine's decision was immediate. As rallies, police-protester clashes and a curfew continued for two more nights, Kleine relented and filed a petition for a special prosecutor and a grand jury to review the case.

Had it not been for the pressure, this guy could have just killed James Scurlock and moved on, said Robinson, the UNO professor.

In late September, former U.S. federal prosecutor Fred Franklin, serving as a special prosecutor, presented the Gardner case to grand jurors. They decided to indict Gardner on manslaughter and three other felony charges.

On Sept. 27, the day his attorneys said he was set to return to Omaha to be arraigned on the charges, Gardner fatally shot himself in Oregon. It was a jarring and unexpected end to the dizzying turn of events.

Its not a victory that Gardner is dead, said Howard, the University of Iowa professor. Him being dead is not justice served, either.

The shooting had prompted immediate calls of racism, not just because Gardner was white and Scurlock was Black but also because Gardners former employees and a relative had said Gardner had a history of racist actions and talk.

It goes back to whites thinking they can police Black people," Robinson said. "That really is historical. The origins of that go back to slavery.

Howard, who studies race in the Midwest, had closely followed the news of the Scurlock killing and watched live video feeds of the Omaha protests. Speaking to Black Omahans during recent visits to her hometown, she found that many people brought up the 1969 fatal shooting of Vivian Strong, a 14-year-old Black girl who was killed by Omaha Police Officer John Loder, a white man.

Even though the circumstances were very different  the victim profiles, who was doing the shooting  those two instances told the same story for Black Omahans, Howard said. This is a cautionary tale that is told down generation to generation. I would suspect many white Omahans would not know who Vivian Strong is. Theres two very distinct experiences that Black Omahans and white Omahans face in the city.

Barbara Hewins-Maroney, a UNO associate professor of urban studies, brought up the 1919 lynching of Will Brown outside the Douglas County Courthouse as a comparison to Scurlock's slaying because of the strong community response elicited by each killing.

Both happened at a time when things seemed, on the surface, to be OK, between Black and white relationships, but when you get down to under the crust of it all, no, it wasnt, she said. I think each of these incidents gave emerging leaders a chance to speak up and do more and ask for more and start questioning, Why? Why? Why?

Eric Ewing, the executive director at the Great Plains Black History Museum at 24th and Grant streets, said Scurlock's shooting should be remembered to help prevent similar situations from occurring.

We can either say its repeating itself or we can say that its never changed, Ewing said. Different times, but still the same or similar outcomes. What we could say is we definitely are not learning from the past. In a sense, I say thats because were not learning about the past.

A coalition of local organizations, including the Great Plains museum, sought to collect physical remnants and interviews from local Black Lives Matter protests to mark the significance of the moment. The Durham Museum, at 801 S. 10th St., last year put out a request to the public for items related to the pandemic or the protests, a rare contemporary history haul to add to the museum's more than 80,000 archived objects that date to the 1850s, collection manager Becky Putzer said.

Durham officials collected the colorfully painted plywood that had covered the windows of Culprit Cafe & Bakery. They also have a black-and-white photo of 7-year-old Zuri Jensen, who was photographed by Dalton Carper as she held her fist in the air at the first 72nd and Dodge protest. Artist Anthony Penas stylized poster of that photo and others he created relating to the movement also are part of the museum's collection.

Putzer said that as of now, the items can provide educational moments on social media or be viewed in virtual tours. But she said she would love to create a dedicated exhibit or collaborate with the other organizations.

Items like this, it really will make a visual impact," said Putzer, referring to the image painted on the plywood. "This is such a beautiful example of the reaction to what happened, she said. Im excited to display this someday because I think it is a focal piece for our conversation about Omahas response to James Scurlock and George Floyd and the summer of 2020.

The vinyl billboard displaying the original Scurlock portrait art by Kat Morrow is now folded in a bag on the floor of the Great Plains museum. Ewing would like to hang it outside the museum every year but said he wants to get the Scurlock family's permission first. The museum also is working on video interviews to document the pandemic and social justice and plans to publish those conversations.

Ewing said people have expressed more interest in the museum and its resources because of the increased awareness of racial justice issues. Despite the in-person restrictions of the pandemic, the organization recorded 1,000 more guests, mostly virtual, in 2020 than in 2019.

But Ewing and Robinson said its draining and anxiety-inducing for them to keep talking about the Black lives that have been lost.

Scurlock's family is still grieving his death, and it's sometimes hard for them to drive past the mural at 24th and Camden and see Scurlock's face smiling back.

Although he is getting all this recognition for who he was and what he stood for, we do have to go on without him, said his sister, Rajeanna Scurlock, 21. And its just so bittersweet, because were definitely hurting without him. We wish he was still here with us.

A week after Omahas Black Lives Matter protests and Scurlock's killing, more than 2,000 people marched along Dodge Street from 72nd Street to Memorial Park as part of a walk and rally for racial justice. The demonstration was sanctioned by police, who blocked off traffic on Dodge.

Jackie Font-Guzman, who worked at Creighton University for 15 years, most recently as the director of the Negotiation and Conflict Resolution Program, said she saw the community come together that day and throughout the summer. She said she thinks the show of unity helped push the Douglas County Board of Health in mid-June to declare racism as a public health crisis and other local institutions to pledge to make improvements.

Omaha is not a place where people would go out to the streets to gather and protest. It really brought it home, said Font-Guzman, who now is the executive director of diversity, equity and inclusion at Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. I think people were ready to listen to that and grapple with it and say we need to do more.

The Justice for James movement was born out of the frustrations that police never booked Gardner into jail and Kleine declined to file charges. Ja Keen Fox, the group's lead organizer, held daily protests outside Kleines west Omaha neighborhood for 36 straight days, which Fox said symbolized a quick 36 hours between Scurlocks death and Kleines no-charge decision.

The groups priorities have broadened since then. Fox said racism occurs in many areas  housing, infrastructure, economic development  not just in the justice system.

Were not looking for symbolism, were not looking for just words, Fox said. Were looking for a real policy and systemic chance that shifts the way Black and brown people are able to live their lives.

The organization is preparing for the election of the Douglas County attorney in 2022 and speaking to prospective candidates. Kleine switched his political affiliation to the Republican Party in October after a resolution adopted by the Nebraska Democratic Party said his handling of the Gardner case perpetuated White supremacy, something he vehemently disputes. Kleine hasnt publicly announced whether he will run for a fifth term.

Gardners suicide put an end to what likely would have been years of court hearings and potential appeals.

But just as the case had been litigated, dissected and argued about on social media last summer, various conspiracy theories swirled that Gardner was not actually dead, although Franklin obtained and filed Gardners Oregon death certificate so a judge could officially dismiss the case.

Many online commenters thought the man with red, shoulder-length hair who happily carried out Rep. Nancy Pelosis podium at the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol insurrection bore an uncanny resemblance to Gardner. Yet that man, from Florida, was identified and arrested days later.

Hewins-Maroney said her students and friends have floated ideas that Gardner's death certificate was forged, that Gardner fled to Canada or is hiding out in the Pacific Northwest.

Despite the rumors, all evidence shows that Gardner died by suicide.

Some recognized that no matter what might have been the resolution of the criminal case, the matter wouldnt have been settled in many people's minds.

An unnecessary death and murder of a Black man can never be resolved, Hewins-Maroney said.

Said Robinson: There will be closure when we dont have to fight for social justice again.

The Black community is a part of Omaha," Ewing said. "So how can Omaha move forward? We all are part of the community of Omaha. Omaha has a responsibility for the ugliness  if part of the pie is bad, then the whole pie is bad. So its everyones responsibility.

And its just one case, those interviewed said. A systematic change is whats needed, and while Scurlocks killing may have prompted some discourse, more work is needed. Font-Guzman said the case showed people need to get out of their affinity groups and reach out to make connections with others.

I should be willing to sit with that discomfort, be able to acknowledge that I will not be able to fully understand someone or where theyre coming from, but I will still have some sort of relationship, Font-Guzman said. Theres so much emphasis on convincing someone that your position is the correct one, which leads to polarization  those are not healthy approaches. We should be able to have conversations and be in existence and thrive in a community together.

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The Legislature on Wednesday revived a resolution supporting a convention of the states to propose amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

Senators returned it to the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee, which promptly advanced it the floor for consideration next year.

The proposal (LR14), introduced by Sen. Steve Halloran of Hastings, had disappeared from the legislative agenda last month when a motion to pull it out of the committee for consideration failed on a 23-14 vote, falling short of the 25 votes required.

The resolution had been trapped in the committee when a motion to send it to the floor received a 4-2 vote, one count short of the required majority.

But Sen. John McCollister of Omaha, a member of the committee, provided the fifth vote Wednesday after Halloran voted for McCollister's motion to override Gov. Pete Ricketts' veto of his bill (LB108) expanding eligibility for federal food assistance.

The veto override was approved on a 30-19 vote, with 30 votes required to be successful.

Sen. Mike Flood of Norfolk offered the successful motion to breathe new life into the convention of the states proposal, arguing that he would like to "see the people of Nebraska get an up or down vote" on the measure.
A roundup of legislative and Capitol news items of interest for Wednesday, May 26, 2021:

PRISON STAFF ASSAULT: A correctional officer suffered a broken nose when an inmate at the Iowa State Penitentiary at Fort Madison assaulted him with closed-fist strikes to the face Wednesday morning, the Department of Corrections reported. The officer was treated at a hospital.

The officer was escorting an inmate to his cell when another inmate approached and hit the guard. Officers restrained the attacking inmate.

The inmate was evaluated by medical staff and found not to have suffered significant injuries, DOC said.

The incident remains under investigation.

HISTORY AWARDS: The State Historical Society of Iowa has announced its highest history awards to recognize people, organizations and community groups that have contributed to Iowas heritage, study and practice of history.

Included was a lifetime achievement award for sisters Bonnie Smola of Monona and Donna Story of Hawkeye and their late husbands, John Smola and Steve Story, for their work across five decades to preserve and promote Iowa history.
EDMONTON, Alberta (AP)  Edmonton Oilers general manager Ken Holland said racist comments directed to First Nation defenseman Ethan Bear are totally unacceptable and disgusting.
Three years ago, Amazons HQ2 competition showed the world just how many local politicians would happily sell their first-born child if it meant bringing tech jobs to their community. Hundreds of cities and regions made bids to land the everything stores new headquarters, offering all manner of subsidies and perks to one of the most powerful corporations on Earth with the hope that, by the grace of Jeff Bezos, they could one day become the next Seattle.

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Most of them never had a chance. Amazon largely ignored the offers from midsized contenders, instead selecting New York City and the Virginia suburbs outside of Washington, D.C., places with already-flourishing tech scenes where it would be easy to recruit talent. Although Amazon also promised to put a smaller office in Nashville, Tennessee, the outcome was a stark illustration of how, left to its own devices, the tech industry would likely continue concentrating itself in a handful of already-rich cities.

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But what if it was possible for the government to take the HQ2 model and actually use it to spread the tech wealth around? The Biden administration might be about to try, thanks to the $250 billion U.S. Innovation and Competition Act, the major bipartisan package of science and technology funding now working its way through Congress, which has been pitched as an effort to counter Chinas influence on the global stage. After a bit of drama on Thursday, the Senate voted to end debate on the legislation (which was previously known as the Endless Frontier Act), a crucial stepping stone on the way to passage.

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Among its various pieces, the legislation authorizes $10 billion to help transform a handful of U.S. cities into new technology hubs where cutting-edge industries like robotics, green energy, or artificial intelligence can thrive. The money would be awarded through a national competition overseen by the Department of Commerce, in which groups made of local governments, universities, nonprofits, investors, and others would band together to pitch their town as Americas next great tech haven. But instead of presenting baskets of cash to one of the worlds richest men, theyd be bidding for a slice of federal funding.

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The idea is in large part the brainchild of two prominent MIT economists, Jonathan Gruber and Simon Johnson. In 2019, the pair published a book titled Jump-Starting America, in which they argued that the United States should embark on a massive program of public science and technology spending in order to boost economic growth and retain our innovative edge against geopolitical competitors (like China). One of its key points was that the U.S. economy has increasingly come to be dominated by a handful of superstar citiesplaces like San Francisco, New York, Boston, Seattle, and Los Angeles that have turned into magnets for highly paid tech and finance jobs, and absorb the vast majority of venture capital dollars (about 93 percent of VC investment goes to just 15 metros, with Californias Bay Area gobbling nearly half). The reason why has to do with what economists call agglomeration effectsthe gravity-like tendency of industries to cluster geographically, particularly in places where theres a large pool of professional talent they can hire. Amazons HQ2 decision was a high-profile example of agglomeration in action.

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Instead of presenting baskets of cash to one of the worlds richest men, cities would bid for a slice of federal funding.

Agglomeration isnt necessarily a bad thing, since it can help make industries more innovative and productive by helping knowledge flow between people and companies. But the rise of superstar cities has created some very glaring problems. As the economy has become more polarized between wealthy metropolises and everywhere else, its become more politically polarized too, with liberal-leaning workers with college degrees cloistering themselves in rich urban islands that vote blue. Meanwhile, restrictive zoning laws have driven up housing and land prices in these cities, making it harder for Americans to move toward opportunity, and more expensive to start businesses in them. All of this may be taking a toll on the wider economy: One now-famous study concluded that bad zoning had reduced growth by 36 percent between 1964 and 2009 by shutting people out of cities where their work would be more valuable.

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As Gruber told me in an interview, economists have long said that the solution to these issues is simply to make cities loosen their zoning laws so more people could flock to them. The problem? Thats just not happening. (While a handful of places have begun to ban single-family zoning, change is slow.) So instead, he and Johnson wrote that the government should invest in new tech hubs outside the coasts, and borrow a page from Amazon by staging a competition between cities for a piece of funding, to show that they have the resources, and the local buy-in to make use of it. (A team from the Brookings Institution proposed a similar plan in 2019, as well.) We need to actually engage in creating new places that can compete with existing superstar cities, Gruber told me. If Americans cant move toward tech jobs anymore, we need to move the tech jobs toward them.

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Gruber and Johnsons proposal was grand in scope: They suggested the government spend $100 billion per year on new R&D ventures, and identified 102 cities, from Rochester, New York, to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, with the right combination of college grads in the workforce, university presence, and quality of life that they could make plausible tech hubs. Their idea was picked up by Rep. Ro Khanna, the California Democrat representing Silicon Valley, who turned it into a bill in 2020.* The concept eventually shrank down to bipartisan size in the Endless Frontier Act spearheaded by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Sen. Todd Young, the Republican from Indiana, which was folded into the wider USICA. The technology hub competition is just one piece of a deal that, among other things, would also boost funding for the National Science Foundation and create a new technology directorate within it focused on applied research in critical fields, provide subsidies for domestic computer chip manufacturing, and send more money to the national labs and DARPA. But if the bill passes, the hub contest could become the most public symbol of a new national push to fund the sciences.

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One obvious question is what these new technology hubs would actually look like in practice. Based on the bill, thats not entirely clear. It would let cities and states use the moneysome of which they would have to matchfor everything from workforce development to building out tech incubators and testing facilities. Another piece of the legislation would provide a separate $9.5 billion to fund new academic innovation centers at universities focusing on key tech areas; in theory one of those could also be part of a hub. You can imagine a city trying to build something similar to North Carolinas famed Research Triangle Park, creating a space where private industry and university talent meet and develop products. But it might not be something quite that concrete.

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And what are the chances any of these tech hubs will succeed? Thats anyones guess. Federal spending has often played a critical role in building up local tech ecosystemsmilitary and NASA contracts were crucial to Silicon Valleys nascent semiconductor industry in the 1960s, for instance. But most of Americas most important tech centers grew up somewhat organically; the only one that was truly planned ahead of time is Research Triangle Park, which was founded way back in 1959. Meanwhile, the history of regional development is littered with examples of science parks and tech incubators that never really lived up to their ambitions.

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Gruber, for his part, told me he expects that some of the tech hubs simply wont work out. Failure does not mean, you know, the Big Lebowski and dust balls blowing through the prairie. Failure could mean you just dont grow any faster, he said. But its true. Youre not going to create 18 Seattles. Youre just not. The political question, he said, is whether lawmakers and voters will be willing to think like venture capitalists, who know that only a handful of their investments work out, but pay off massively. He admits that recent history isnt encouraging on that front: President Barack Obamas green energy loan program is still remembered largely for the failure of solar panelmaker Solyndra, even though it successfully kickstarted the American renewables industry.

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Then theres the issue of funding. At the moment, the bill calls for the Department of Commerce to submit at least three new hubs in each census region, for a total of 18. That leaves about $556 million for each, dolled out over five years. If you include the separate pot of money for university innovation centers, it comes out to potentially a billion each. That is, to put it bluntly, not a lot of money if your goal is to transform the economy of a metro area. In its proposal, the Brookings Institution suggested that it would take $6.9 billion over 10 years to turn a city into a tech hub. It based that calculation on the amount of federal money flowing to universities in places like San Francisco, Boston, and the Research Triangle.

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Khanna, who has sponsored a version of Endless Frontier in the House, told me hes worried about Congress stretching funding so thin that it will prevent any one hub from becoming successful. I think its important that you limit the number of tech hubs and that you have competent execution. At some point, as this bill makes its way through the House and toward final passage, lawmakers will have to choose between handing out money to as many cities as possible to make their voters happy, or making sure some of these efforts have a chance at succeeding. Otherwise, it might not do much more to spread the tech industry around than Amazons big sweepstakes.
Slate has relationships with various online retailers. If you buy something through our links, Slate may earn an affiliate commission. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change. All prices were up to date at the time of publication.

In 1982, Amy Heckerling, a 27-year-old New Yorker freshly graduated from AFI film school, was hired by Universal to direct Cameron Crowes screenplay based on his year spent undercover as a student at a San Diego high school. That movie, Fast Times at Ridgemont High, has since become an endlessly quoted cult object and an influential teen-movie classic. Many members of its young cast, including Sean Penn, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Forest Whitaker, and (in his first, nonspeaking film role) Nicolas Cage, went on to major Hollywood careers. Now the Criterion Collection has released Fast Times; I was fortunate enough to write the essay accompanying the disc. I spoke with Heckerling about casting those rising stars, the test screenings full of squares who almost scuttled the movie, and plans for a musical based on her other seminal high school movie, Clueless. Our conversation has been edited and condensed.

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Slate: I know from digging deep into the lore of Fast Times that you had a mixed experience with making the movie. You had a really creatively engaging experience on set, with a lot of freedom to do what you wanted, for a first-time director especially. But then you felt Fast Times was kind of dumped by the studio. Looking back on that experience, what are your best and worst memories about it?

Amy Heckerling: Well, when we made the movie, they had these test screenings in Orange County, which is a very conservative part of California, and the notes that we got were really harsh. I mean, people were like, We teenagers are not like that, You think all we care about is sex and drugs, and blah, blah, blah. And we were worried that we would have to cut out a lot of stuff.

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And this version was a very different cut from what we ended up seeing?

No, no, not a very different cut at all. Because thank God, our producer, Art Linson, who is just such a cool guy  Id be panicking and panicking, and hed be going, Fuck them if they cant take a joke. And he just knew that that was not our audience. Its like, that does not represent young people.

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Then they decided that they werent going to release it wide. They were just going to release it in a couple hundred theaters near Los Angeles. So there was no TV presence, there was no trailer, there was no nothing. And it was doing really well in California in these few cities, so they decided to release it all over the country, having no advance sales. And my mother was in New York, and it was like, on construction sites there were little flyers with a picture of Spicolis head. And my mother said people were calling her going, Is that Amys movie? Whos that old lady in it? They thought that Sean Penn in the wig was an old lady. And I mean, it was just not printed well. Flyers on construction sites, thats like an ex-boyfriend thats in a band and youd go the night before stapling up the flyers to tell people. That was the ad campaign.

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I remember it as a big movie in the summer of 82. That story about the marketing strategy is complete news to me, because it certainly made its way to my suburban San Antonio theater and people loved it.

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Well, that was one of the sadder things about that movie. One of the happy ones was like, I was hanging around my apartment and somebody called and said, Hey, you know whats going on with your film? And I was like, No, what? And they were like, Go to the theater. It was in Westwood. So I go there and everybody is saying the dialogue along with the film. This was like two weeks after it came out. And that blew my mind, to see real people seeing something theyd obviously seen before and singing along. I mean, you know. That was one of the high points in my life.

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Sure, I can imagine. How did the movies success change what happened next for you?

People were offering me scripts, but they were all about girls losing their virginity. And they were really putting me in this little box of like, OK, youre a female. What female things do we have? Young girl, teenager, lose virginity, thats what they want from you. And that wasnt what interested me. I wanted to write things and direct them. That was, to me, the real creative part. So, you know, it was great, but it was also like  Fast Times was like this thing that I did, but it didnt launch me in the way that it would have launched a guy.

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Which is a crazy fate to have after you, in fact, made the sleeper hit of 1982.

It didnt feel like that, because it wasnt making what I considered a boy hit. I mean, Im glad it made enough for me to continue. I wanted to get into that club of what guys do and what they can accomplish.

It reminds me of that story about your first day in high school, the High School of Art and Design in New York. Do you remember that?

It was in Ms. Rosecrans class in English and there was a boy that sat next to me, Eugene, and he was always talking about movies. We had to write an essay at one point on what we wanted to do when we grew up. And I wanted to make movies, but I would never say that because I didnt think it was possible to do. I thought thats something that a bunch of privileged men in Hollywood do, and I can never do that.

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But when I heard this guy talking about movies all the time, and he was copying off of me anytime there was a testI thought, wait a minute, whats going to happen when he gets to Hollywood? Whos he going to copy off of? And I thought, screw this. If he can say he wants to do it, then why cant I say I want to do it?

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You cant scan a group shot in Fast Times without seeing, like, four future Oscar nominees in it. What was casting like?

We loved the actors so much. It was just so much fun to see what Sean Penn is going to bring. And then, Ive always been a big Ray Walston fan, and I knew Vincent Schiavelli from New York. And it was just a great bunch of people. God, Forest Whitakerhe came in and there was not much dialogue for that character. I felt bad saying Would you say these two lines? So I said, I saw all these theater things on your resumeyou want to do any of these monologues or anything, you remember anything? He goes, Oh, yeah. And he does something from, like, Streamers, like this far away from me. I was like, Ha ha, anything you want to do in this, you can do.

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In writing about Fast Times, I talk about how, as a 14-year-old watching it, and as somebody who was already getting into movies, it was a revelation for me that a movie could do something different. It could be about people like me and my friends, could have a girl as a protagonist who can have sex without being slut-shamed, et cetera. And I know you were also a big cinephile growing up. When you were the age of the Fast Times kids, what movies can you remember having that kind of effect on you?

When I was a little kid, I loved gangsters and I loved musicals and I loved anything with James Cagney, Fred Astaire, Mickey Rooney. I just loved Warner Brothers movies. And then when I was a teenager, I loved Mean Streets and A Clockwork Orange and Carnal Knowledge and Bonnie and Clyde. So it was like this great clump of the 1930s and then amazing stuff in the 70s.

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You can see the love for the 30s musicals and things like that in Johnny Dangerously. You picking that as your next project out of Fast Times was a big swerve to make to keep from getting the girl losing her virginity movie again.

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Yeah. Except, I mean, it didnt make money. I mean, it didnt lose money, but  I managed to stay out of the box, but then I was like, uh-oh, now I better do something that makes money.

I know that the Clueless 25th anniversary was in 2020, and you already made the rounds Zooming about Clueless all last year. So I wont ask you too much about that, but I am interested in this Clueless musical that you had going before the pandemic, and whether thats still in the works for once theaters open back up. It had already opened off-Broadway, correct?

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It was off-Broadway and weve actually been Zoom-working on it, revamping the musical numbers and condensing the verbal stuff. So its me and the director and lyricists.

So youre doing the book for it, or youre producing, or what would your role be?

I do the book. [Walks away, returns carrying a corkboard covered with notes for the Clueless musical.]

Aha. Youre not storyboarding it, but corkboarding it.

Yeah. Thats going to be the book.

And where will it open?

Theres interest in London to start there.

Thats exciting its going to happen. Thats one of my dream trips for after the pandemic is over, to take my teenage daughter to London and see theater, so maybe well get to see Clueless: The Musical.

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Come on out.
Dear Prudence is Slates advice column. Submit questions here. This week, Torie Bosch is filling in as Prudie. Jenee Desmond-Harris takes over on June 3.

Dear Prudence,

I have been married to a great guy for five and a half years. He is handsome, sexy, funny, and kind. Its true that he has always been a little prissy about illnesses, but I never thought it was a real problem. However, during the pandemic, his terror about getting sick has reached new levels. For the last year, he has refused to take off his face mask, even when we are at homejust the two of us. This is true even now that he is fully vaccinated for the virus. He wears it to sleep, to do most of his bathroom activities, and, yes, even during lovemaking. To eat, he pulls it up to expose his mouth, and then quickly pulls it back down between bites. While he does not insist that I do the same, I can tell it bothers him that I dontespecially because I have now started going maskless outside, per the CDC guidelines, and plan on restaurant dining inside soon for a girls night out.

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When I have tried to present him with the science, he says, Scientists dont fully understand the virus yet, or, I know it probably isnt necessary, but wearing it doesnt bother me, so if theres even a small chance that it can protect us, Id rather be on the safe side. Whats the harm?

I disagree that theres no harm. I want to see my beautiful husbands face again. I want to kiss him on the lips romantically, like we used to, and not through a piece of fabric. (He does not change his mask very often and it is often smelly and soiled.) And I dont want to feel judged by him for my own behavior, which I consider reasonable.

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This is making me depressed and concerned about our future together. I have asked him when he plans to stop masking, and all he says is When it is safe for everyone. What if this becomes a permanent part of him? My mother, who is very conservative, thinks that I should move out. But I dont think Im ready for that step yet. What I want is my husband back. How can I get through to him?

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Maskless and Alone

Dear Maskless and Alone,

I suspect your mother and I would agree on almost nothing COVID-related except the fact that your husbands behavior is alarming. Whats the harm? is such an insidious phrase. Its not a question; its a statement of leave me alone. But there is lots of harm in leaving him aloneharm to his mental health, to yours, and to your relationship.

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You need to sit down with him at a time free of heightened emotionsso not right after sex (I am impressedis that the word?that you are still sleeping with him!). Tell him all about the harm here: His behavior is alienating you and is certainly not offering him any real protection against disease. Give him three options. First, he can make an appointment with his physician to talk about effective protective measures. If he does this, he has to commit to following the doctors recommendations, and you have to be present so he cant lie to you about what happens there. Hopefully, his doctor will say he has to do option No. 2: start seeing a therapist. If he chooses this, he has to commit to at least six sessions (or some other number that feels right to you). Finally, he can decidebecause it would be his decision if he doesnt take another actionto call an end to the relationship. I know you want your husband back, but he isnt that husband right now, and he needs to understand just how serious this is. To be clear, you have to mean it when you say that the relationship has to end if he doesnt make progress, but I think that would be the right move.

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If he goes with one of the first two options, you should promise to do the legwork: finding him a therapist, making appointments, etc. Your husband is in the middle of a long-running crisis and that is the worst time to have to navigate our completely patient-unfriendly mental health care system.

Once he has committed to some sort of treatment, see if you can get him to promise to change his mask every day until he feels secure going without it. If you dont have enough at home, there are lots of deeply discounted masks available now. But I dont want you to lead with the demand to change his mask every day, because that could open the door to negotiations around behaviorand what you need here is to address the problem itself. I will be thinking about you!

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Dear Prudence,

My parents social media habits are giving me severe secondhand embarrassment. Im a queer Black woman in my mid-20s. I have a Facebook account pretty much only because I work in media and need to keep up with what my clients and potential clients are doing. I treat it like LinkedInI post very little aside from sharing business events and industry-relevant news. My parents (who are white and adopted me at a young age) requested to be my friends, and I accepted, because I originally didnt think it was a big deal. But my parents post incredibly racist, homophobic, and xenophobic content, visible for the whole world to see. Theyre huge Trump supporters, as well as COVID-hoaxers and anti-maskers. They provided me with a good education and otherwise decent upbringing, but after moving away, it still took a lot of emotional work to undo the kind of trauma of being the Black child of parents like that, and no matter what I say to them, they have never changed their toxic views. Aside from the immense frustration and trauma it brings me personally, Im also afraid their posts will reflect badly on me if clients or potential clients click through my friends list. I know I cant reason with my parents. Can I just remove them from my Facebook and hope they dont notice?

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Sins of the Father

Dear Sins,

Remove them! If they refuse to listen to you and the nicest thing you can say about them is that they gave you a good education and otherwise decent upbringing, I dont think its the worst thing in the world if they notice. I dont mean that to sound dismissiveupsetting the stasis of a precarious relationship is no small move. But this isnt about secondhand embarrassment. Its about them not taking your trauma seriously online or off, and you dont need them on Facebook (or maybe in your life) if they cant even try to do that. I wish you had better parents and hope that you have a chosen family that supports you.

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How to Get Advice From Prudie

Submit your questions anonymously here. (Questions may be edited for publication.) Join the live chat every Monday at noon (and submit your comments) here, or call the Dear Prudence podcast voicemail at 401-371-3327 to hear your question answered on a future episode of the show.

Dear Prudence,

My sweet husband (together about 15 years, both in our 40s, no kids by choice) has been struggling with anxiety for a while now, mainly due to a toxic and difficult work environment, from what he says, though its bleeding into his daily life and even at home lately. He started seeing a psychiatrist about six months ago, on his own initiative. This doctor has only really offered antidepressants so far and a mild anti-anxiety drug that hes still taking but doesnt really seem to help much. Hes tried a few different SSRIs and SNRIs now, with various side effects (some quite scary), so the doctor just keeps having him try different ones. None of the antidepressants have helped at all, and only make him feel worse, which seems to be just making him feel more and more helpless and like hell never feel better.

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Im trying my best to be supportive but have my own history of mental health issues in the past, so its sometimes difficult for me to sincerely encourage him to keep trying them. Ive mostly tried to keep my opinions to myself and to try to be supportive, in case they did help him.

From what Ive been reading, it sounds like cognitive behavioral therapy can be as, or sometimes even more, effective than medication, and I have also had very good results from it, so much that I am no longer medicated and doing well (which he is aware of). I would really like for him to give therapy a chance, but he doesnt believe that just talking would help and brushes me off whenever I bring it up. One time a few months ago, he agreed to go if I helped him make an appointment, but when I found someone I thought would be a good fit, he backed out and said hed changed his mind, because he thought it wouldnt work and would be a waste of time and money. Is there any way to talk him into giving therapy a shot that Im missing? Im at my wits end and just want my sweet, happy, carefree husband back.

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How to Help

Dear How to Help,

Argh, Im so frustrated for you! Medication alone is clearly not working for him. Its time to revisit the conversation you had back when he let you make an appointment for him: Its been a few months and he still isnt better, so you need (yes, need!) him to try therapy again. You might remind him that his depression, his hijacked brain, doesnt want him to get better, and thats the voice insisting therapy is useless. He needs to fight back against it. He thinks hes being logical, but he isnt. (I stole that framing from my therapist, who said it after I went on a long monologue about why I was the worst person in the world. It was one of those wonderful, rare therapy moments when something clicked.)

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Have you shared any of your reading about CBT with him? If he wants to depend on medication to make him feel better, then perhaps hes science-minded and seeing the literature would help him understand. (Its also worth noting that CBT may not be a miracle cure for him, eitherbut again, hes tried the medication-only route and it isnt getting him where he needs to be, so its time to mix it up.) And perhaps you could encourage him to talk to his psychiatrist about it? I dont hang out with a ton of psychiatrists, but in my experience, they usually strongly believe that therapy has to accompany medication.

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I wish you and the first letter writer could become best friends and support each other.

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Introducing Big Mood, Little Mood

Danny Lavery has a new Slate podcast! Listen and subscribe to Big Mood, Little Mood, where Lavery will be chatting with special guests, doling out advice, and talking about feelings, from the monumental to the minute. New episodes every Tuesday and Friday.

Dear Prudence,

I live in a small, progressive town in a progressive state. We have our challenges like all communities, but until recently I didnt believe racism was a big issue. Its not something you see or hear about ever. One of our elected officials is a Black man. He has great vision and has done amazing things for our community. Recently, the town received threatening, racist voicemails directed at this leader. The perpetrator was arrested and jailed. Guns were confiscated from his home. How do we show our support for this leader and his family in our community? Are personal, private expressions of support and sympathy enough?

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Not in My Town

Dear Not in My Town,

No, they are not enough. I suspect your Black neighbors wouldnt agree that race wasnt a big issue in your community before this. You write that racism is not something you see or hear about everbut the general second-person pronoun is wrong there. It was something you specifically didnt see or hear about ever, but I would guess you werent looking or listening very hard. The best way to show support is to be vocal, in public, about why this is outrageous. Donate to his next campaign. And commit to keeping your head from returning into the sand. There is a real danger here that you might let yourself think Well, we had that one gun-toting racist guy who threatened a beloved official, but he was arrested, so the system works.

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Dear Prudence,

Did I make the right decision by ghosting a clingy friend? Im a 46-year-old woman whos a teacher and worked with a 32-year-old female educational assistant. We became friends for a couple of years, then she moved to the U.S. when her husband got his dream job. (Im Canadian.)

Our texts dropped off as to be expected, but we never lost touch. A year later, she suddenly wanted to talk more. A lot more. Said she was lonely, hadnt made any new friends, missed me. But the texts kept getting more frequent, and if I didnt respond right away, she would ask: Are you mad at me? Did I do something wrong?

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When I tried to establish boundaries by saying I was busy, dont enjoy talking online for hours (especially after schools moved to remote learning during the pandemic), she would say, Im trying to be a better friend to you. Why wont you let me? and would want to schedule something else. I felt she wasnt listening to me, and when I firmly cut things short, she would act hurt and text these long apologies that seemed fishing for reassurance. It was exhausting, and I realized I didnt enjoy our friendship anymore. After I tried to tell her in December I was very busy with work, family, etc., and probably wouldnt be online over the holidays, she responded with several needy texts. I deleted and blocked her number, except for one forum that I cannot. Shes still begging me to give her another chance. What do I do?

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Ex-Friend of a Stage 5 Clinger

Dear Ex-Friend,

You made the right decision. You clearly and compassionately explained to her the conditions under which you could be her friendnamely, that she understand and respect that you have other obligations in your life and cant be there for her endlesslyand she rejected the terms. I think you could send her one final, firm message that you have a lot going on in your life right now but wish her the best. (I wouldnt get into how her behavior was wrong, because she will just try to relitigate it.) But even that isnt really necessary. Also, whats with the forum that wont let you block her? Thats a basic online safety feature.

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Dear Prudence,

Im currently redoing my office/bedroom. After years of trying to pull my space together, Ive finally come up with a cohesive design. The problem is a gift I got from my aunt. She is a wonderful painter and painted me a gorgeous scene. Ive always loved the picture, but it no longer goes with my design choices. On top of that, she asked me for some photos for inspiration, didnt like any of them, and chose something she liked better. Ive always liked the photo so much that I kind of ignored the fact that the subject isnt something I would have chosen as a piece of art. Im feeling conflicted because it is an absolutely gorgeous picture that my aunt spent so much time on. I know she feels demoralized that her other nieces and nephews dont seem to like the art gifts she makes for them. I hate to make her feel bad. She rarely comes to my apartment and almost never comes into my room, so she may never notice. Am I overthinking?

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Artful Reorganization

Dear Artful,

I admit Im a little unclear on the merits of a cohesive design when it comes at the cost of a picture youve always loved painted by an aunt you care for. But its not my space or your auntsits yours. Just do the traditional thing: Put it away in a closet and hang it up when you know shes coming over. If she comes over unexpectedly, ends up in your room, and says something about it, just say cheerfully, I have too many pieces of wall art and not enough wall, so Im trying to rotate them in and out. Its fun to mix things up regularly.

Classic Prudie

A few months ago, in order to spice up our sex lives, I persuaded my wife of four years to try swinging. I searched online and found an ordinary-looking couple I thought would suit us to begin with. We met, had dinner, went to a hotel, and swapped partners. I was surprised and dismayed when the other man, who is older, somewhat overweight, and balding, undressed. He was way larger than me, and for two hours I had to watch him work my wife into multiple fits, screams, and moans. I cannot get that night out of my mind. Sometimes I feel I could just punch my wife in the face. I cannot see how I could possibly be content in my marriage ever again. Is there a way I can overcome this?
Perhaps you saw the letter. The one in which 175 Jewish studies and Israel studies scholars wrote, we condemn the state violence that the Israeli government and its security forces have been carrying out in Gaza. In the same letter, they wrote, We also denounce expressions of antisemitism or Islamophobia in connection with ongoing events in Israel/Palestine.

Or perhaps you read the Instagram post by the account Progressive Jews, backing Palestinian rights and safety, freedom and liberation, but also urging followers to speak out against antisemitism.

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Or perhaps you read about the millennial Jewish staffers on Capitol Hill who are working criticism of Israeli government policy into their day jobs, pushing back against conflation of criticism of the Israeli government with antisemitism.

Or perhaps you saw statements like the ones put out by Truah, a rabbinic human rights group, which condemned violence by Israeli police, denounced aiming missiles at civilians, and also reminded anyone reading that attacking Jewish people is antisemitic and wrong.

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Perhaps, in other words, you were aware that there are progressive Jews who both condemn the Israeli military and governments treatment of Palestinians while also speaking out against antisemitism. To many, it might seem obvious that one can be both opposed to Israel and concerned about rising antisemitism. But to others, it is not. That is true for opponents of Israel who have taken it upon themselves to vandalize synagogues and a Jewish preschool. But so, too, is it true that someincluding some Jews and Jewish institutionsconflate criticizing Israel with criticizing Jews.

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For example, the Anti-Defamation League, which has been rightly ringing alarm bells about rising antisemitism and is participating in a rally against antisemitism Thursday, has also counted denunciations of Zionism in its tracker of antisemitic incidents. But how to define antisemitism is a debate for this very reason: American Jews themselves disagree over the extent to which criticism of Israel and Israel as a Jewish state is inherently antisemitic. There are Palestinian rights activists and anti-Zionist Jews and Zionist Jews who believe that defining antisemitism so as to include anti-Zionism is an attempt to create a chilling effect on speech criticizing Israel. And it isnt only a matter of competing definitions; for American Jews, to speak out against Israel can be to have ones own Jewishness challenged. So many pieces like and including the one youre reading now include paragraphs assuring readers that Jews who criticize Israel are indeed proud Jews. Those paragraphs are there for a reason.

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That reason is that a persistent feature of American discourse around Israel focuses on whether or how progressive Jews can simultaneously condemn antisemitism while vocally opposing Israeli abuses in the conflict. The two goals are often presented as being in tension, when they are in fact, to progressive Jews, in concert. In other words, while there shouldnt be a tension between being proudly Jewish and being critical of Israel, or between decrying rising antisemitism as well as the occupation, and while an increasing number of American Jews hold these views, its still contested ground, a position that is subjected to bad faith arguments. Those arguments should be addressed directly.

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I will note here that the fighting, killing, and dying in Israel-Palestine is not about American Jews, who are not the primary victims in any of this. However, reports of antisemitic violence in the U.S. and Europe are up in recent weeks, with reports of synagogues being attacked in Illinois and Arizona and Jews being followed and taunted with antisemitic slurs, and a kosher pizza shop being vandalized in New York City, and brass squares commemorating Jewish victims of the Nazis being burned in Berlin. Jews, including American Jews, of all political stripes are allowed to feel scared and sad and mad about that and to say that they feel that way.

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Relatedly, a political solution between Israelis and Palestinians will not and should not be dictated by progressive American Jews thousands of miles away. However, given the central role that Israel plays in American Jewish schools, summer camps, and religious and political institutions, and given that the United States provides significant military aid and diplomatic support to Israel, it is not unreasonable for American Jews, including progressive ones, to feel moved to offer their opinions on the conflict.

There isof coursehistorical context to consider. The role that Israel plays in the American Jewish imagination is at once large and varied, and, certainly, from the 1960s on, it has figured prominently in American Jewish life. (For decades before that, as Jonathan Sarna writes in American Judaism, there was also support for Israel, but it was more muted). Israel has, over time, become increasingly important for certain mainstream American Jewish institutions.

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Consider, for example, what it meant, and means, to the American Jewish Committee. Originally, the American Jewish Committee was anti-Zionist, fearing that the specter of dual loyalty would damage the position and even safety of American Jews. By 1960, as Daniel Gordis recounts in We Stand Divided: The Rift Between American Jews and Israel, the AJC had come to drop its opposition to Zionism. Nevertheless, after Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann was captured by the Mossad in Argentina, former AJC president Joseph Proskauer voiced his opposition to trying Eichmann in Israel, both because he did not want Israel to present as speaking for the worlds Jews and because he did not believe that Eichmanns crimes were only against Jews.

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Today, the AJC is a staunch defender of Israel; on its homepage, AJC describes itself as, Advocating for the Jewish people and Israel.

But if certain mainstream American Jewish institutions moved in a particular direction, the same is not necessarily true of all or even most American Jews themselves. In 2014, the Times of Israel ran an article under the headline, In Wake of War, Leftist Self-Hating Jews Find a Voice on unaffiliated Jews flocking to Jewish Voices for Peace, an anti-Zionist activist group founded in the 1990s; also in 2014, IfNotNow launched, also as a response to the Gaza war and the occupation. In 2018 the Times of Israel ran another piece, this time on progressive millennial Jews returning to their Jewish roots as a response to Trump and the rise of the alt-right and antisemitism. This Jewish identity included, at least for some, becoming more engaged in the fight for Palestinian rights.

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I could here explain that they are not alone, and that this reflects a generational shift and political change more broadly. I could note that the 2020 Pew report on American Jews shows that young Jews are less staunchly opposed to the boycott, divestment, sanctions movement (though more still oppose it than support it), or that they feel less connected to Israel than their older counterparts, even while perceiving heightened antisemitism, or that the Trump years saw American Jewish approval of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu drop.

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But values are not a popularity contest, so I will instead say that American Jews, like literally any other group, are not a monolith, and some are progressive, and that their progressive values dictate opposition both to Israeli policy and to antisemitism.

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And its not because theyre self-hating or antisemites, as Alan Dershowitz said about Bernie Sanders (a Jewish senator who spent time in his youth on a kibbutz). Neither is it because theyre trying to sit at the right lunch table with the cool kids. Its because theyre both Jewish and progressive.

Are Israel and Jewishness often conflated? Yes. Do some people who critique Israel make antisemitic remarks? Sure (though we could also note that the same could be said of some people who purport to stand with Israel). Have some taken Israeli government policy and mass protests against it as an excuse to attack random Jews and Jewish houses of worship and Jewish shops? It certainly seems that way. Are there people in this world who are focused on Israel, as opposed to any other country, because, as some have suggested, they hate Jews specifically? It could be. But that is about them, the antisemites, not about the call for Palestinian rights, and not about progressive Jews, for whom speaking out against the military or government or police or practices of another countryeven, yes, the only Jewish countryis perfectly consistent with speaking out against antisemitism. Both are about creating a future in which everyone is afforded dignity.

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As Anshel Pfeffer wrote in Haaretz, Our tradition is a smorgasbord from which you can pick and choose and reinterpret at will. The rabbis have been doing that for 3,000 years, and so can you. Or, as the late socialist literary critic Irving Howe put it, With enough wrenching, one could find ancestors in the Jewish past for almost any position.

But does one really need to wrench to see why progressive Jews do not think its right for 248 Palestinian civilians and 12 Israeli civilians to be dead, or for people to be kicked out of the homes their families have lived in for years? Surely, there is Jewish history and learning and teaching that says that one can and should speak out against that. Jewish history and tradition are large and varied, too, and one can pull on this strand or that to create the picture of Jewishness one wishes to see.

Theirs is not, in other words, the only Jewish way, or the most Jewish way. But it is a Jewish way. And a progressive way. And there is no inherent contradictionindeed, there can be an inherent harmonyin that.
What happened to Ryanair Flight 4978 this weekend sounds like something out of a pulpy spy novel. The plane, traveling nonstop from Greece to Lithuania, was diverted to Minsk, Belarus, after pilots got a message from air traffic control that there was a bomb on board. When the plane landed, Belarusian authorities pulled off a 26-year-old Belarusian dissident, Roman Protasevich, whom President Alexander Lukashenko had been trying to capture for years. His 23-year-old girlfriend was detained too. In other words, this was a state-sponsored skyjacking.

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Lukashenko has been in charge of Belarus for almost 30 years. His last election, in August, was heavily disputed; the U.S. has called it a fraud, and the EU has agreed. Citizens took to the streets to protest Lukashenkos power grab, but those peaceful demonstrations ended in violence. Tens of thousands of people were arrested and tortured. Sundays skyjacking was a continuation of this authoritarian crackdown. On Thursdays episode of What Next, I spoke to Julia Ioffe, a national security and foreign policy correspondent at GQ, about Lukashenkos program of political repression, how its connected to Russian President Vladimir Putin, and what, if anything, the international community can do about it. Our conversation has been condensed and edited for clarity.

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Mary Harris: I read this devastating story about a TV journalist who went on the air denouncing the violent police response to the protests in Belarus. He got arrested quite promptly. A few days later, he reappears in a video calling on opponents of the president to stop what theyre doing, and afterwards he told a reporter that these people just know how to formulate their requests in such a way that you cannot say no. It seemed very, very dark, and also very public and transparent, like everyone knew what was going on.

Julia Ioffe: Yeah, thats what an authoritarian regime does. One of the things that journalists in this space are facing isnt just that they could be arrested or killed. Its that they could lose their livelihoods, and they have families and homes that they need to take care of and pay for. So sometimes you have to toe the line just to kind of feed your family.

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Because of the way journalists are treated in Belarus, a sort of shadow media industry cropped up on an encrypted messaging app called Telegram. Channels send out mass texts to spread information. Last summer, one channel, called Nexta, and its sister channel, Nexta Live, were sending protest information to almost 2 million subscribers. Describe to me who the people are behind Nexta.

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So it was started by Roman Protasevich, who was a young guy, a student and an activist, and he started this channel as an alternate information source. And then, when the revolution happened, when the protesters hit the streets, he said get out there, and helped coordinate where all the protests were happening, how to evade the police, etc.

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Weve seen in Ukraine and in Russia that oftentimes its journalists who are the ones who sound the call to defend their freedom. I think for a Western audience it might be a little wild, but I think journalists see themselves in this part of the world as fighters and defenders of freedom.

Last year, authorities in Belarus put Protasevich on a list of individuals involved in terrorist activities, but he and many of his Nexta colleagues were able to avoid detention by doing their work from outside the country. That changed this weekend, when Protasevich was pulled off that flight and arrested. A short video of him was released, but how much do we know about where he is and what will happen to him now?

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Well, we dont know a lot. I think the video was released because there were reports going around right after his arrest that he was in the hospital with heart problems and in critical condition.  So people freaked out, understandably, that critical condition sounds very serious. And people thought maybe he had been tortured to that point. People immediately noted the markings on his face. Other people noted how he was holding his hands and how his sleeves were positioned, which seemed to be hiding handcuffs. And the fact that he not only said, hi, Im alive, Im in good health, theyre treating me well, but that he also said that hes confessing to the crimes hes accused of, which is plotting mass unrest. Some of the things hes accused of carry prison sentences of 12 and 15 years. It was really shocking, and I think people immediately started wondering what they had done to him and what they had said to him to make him confess so quickly.

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Yeah, it made me think back to that other journalist who said they have ways of getting you to say what they want.

Right. And were not really sure where Roman is, but his girlfriend is in a pretty notorious prison, one where a lot of protesters were tortured this summer and fall. The fact that the security services are still called the KGB, I think for a lot of people in this part of the world, it summons a lot of very dark memories of the darkest days of the Soviet Uniontortured hundreds of thousands of innocent people into giving confessions, admitting to the wildest things, of spying for the Japanese and the British and the Germans at the same time, while running counterrevolutionary rings to assassinate Stalin and his closest associates.

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Impossible things.

Right, impossible things, especially for university students or schoolteachers or factory workers being accused of this and tortured in the most horrible, kind of darkly creative ways that just make the mind reel when you read about them. And I wonder, in places like Belarus, Ukraine, Russia, to what extent that kind of historical fear is a factor and how much of the work it does for the security forces when they come in and have a quote-unquote conversation with you.

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When thinking about how Belarus was able to divert a commercial flight to achieve its own ends, its helpful to remember that President Alexander Lukashenko has a partner in authoritarianism in Vladimir Putin. Is it worth seeing these two dictators together, as a unit?

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I think, in this case, yes. If you look at August 2020, the revolution started up in Belarus and the next week [Russian opposition leader Alexei] Navalny was poisoned with military-grade nerve agent and his plane had to make an emergency landing, which saved his life. But I think those two things were connected.

After Belarus grounded Flight 4978, the international community responded pretty swiftly. The EU decided on increased sanctions, airlines started avoiding Belarus airspacethats another financial hit. You say the speed of these decisions is notable but not surprising. Putin may have Lukashenkos back, but at the end of the day Belarus is an easy target.

Its a lot harder for people to unify around Russia sanctions, to get everybody on the same page on how hard theyre going to go against a place like Russia. Russias a much bigger economic player, a big energy supplier to Europe, much more interwoven into the economic fabric of Europe, or used to be, than Belarus. And here, its like, all right, fuck Belarus.

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Also, I think what they did was so crazy, what was done was so over-the-top and so kind of flamboyant and zero fucks givenagain, diverting a plane going between two EU countries, a plane owned by an EU country full of EU citizens. Messing around with something like a bomb threat, misusing the protocols in place for passenger safety. I think there is a feeling of a violation of European sovereignty.

It seems to me theres this additional complicating factor where if youre talking about a Russia or a China or a Saudi Arabia, countries similarly known for crushing dissidents in extreme ways, they have these strong ties to the U.S., to Europe, ties through oil and manufacturing. And so responding to them is both more necessary and more complicated. And its just a very different story with Belarus, which is a much smaller place.

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Weve come a long way from the Bush years of spreading democracy and trying to force other countries to become democratic.  Julia Ioffe

Yes. Immediately Russia gets dragged into the picture and people are asking, did Russia know about this? Did they help with this? Do we lean on Russia to punish Belarus? [French President Emmanuel] Macron said we have to rethink our sanctions policy because I think its reached its limit. And I think he has a point. A country like Russia, for example, you can sanction it all you want and its going to be basically fine, in part because of how the government is structured and Russias governing philosophy, which is that the people exist for the good of the state and not vice versa. Also, it has these tremendous resources, not just oil and gas, but diamonds and gold and all kinds of chemicals that the world needs and will continue to buy, and if the U.S. and Europe wont buy them, China sure as hell will. So theyre just not as effective against a country like Russia. Especially not against China, which is an economic powerhouse that rivals the U.S. now.

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With a country like Belarus, its more like a Cuba situation. You isolate it, the people suffer, it will have a few foreign sponsors, big brothers that help underwrite things as its suffering through this economic siege. But this is kind of a question about the efficacy of sanctions anyway. Have they been that effective in Iran? Have they been that effective in Cuba? I dont think they have been.

Now that, as you said, sanctions arent really working, whats the next option?

I think also there has to be some kind of understandingand I think that there is one increasingly in the U.S., both on the Democratic and Republican sidesthat theres just a limit to what you can do to effect change inside another country, especially when its somebody like Lukashenko who is fighting for his survival. He sees this 26-year-old journalist-activist, Roman Protasevich, as an existential threatthats why he made the plane turn around and land in Minsk, so that he could arrest a 26-year-old. He was nearly driven from power in August. And in that part of the world, when youre driven from power, things dont end well for you. And so what can an outside power do to convince somebody like Lukashenko, who has limited economic possibilities to begin with, that its worth releasing this guy or worth easing up on activists and independent media if it means a threat to his power and his life and his familys life?

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Back in August, you were writing about the protests and sort of lamenting the fact that America wasnt really able to get involved because we were chasing our own tail. We had our own presidential election going on and we were busy with the pandemic. It sounds like youre saying were not chasing our own tail anymore, but its hard to know how we would involve ourselves now, now that we have the bandwidth to do so.

I think we have to do something. The question is what, and what are the goals. Is it just to inflict pain and punishment, or is it to change the outcome and get him to release Roman Protasevich? And I think increasingly its just going to be to inflict painaction-reaction as opposed to making Belarus democratic. I think weve come a long way from the Bush years of spreading democracy and trying to force other countries to become democratic, which, as we saw, does not really work if they dont want to do it.

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Whenever a dissident is arrested, theres always the chance that they become a martyr and their movement grows rather than shrinks. Do you think theres a chance that this arrest backfires on Lukashenko?

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Well, I think its already backfiring in the international arena. Im not as sure what the long-term effects are going to be in Belarus. I dont know. Im quite pessimistic about these countries, and at this point I dont see Lukashenko being forced from the throne by the moral force of the martyr. I hope Roman doesnt become a martyr. I hope he survives and is released from jail, though I think he wont be. Im just very pessimistic.

I think what Putin showed Lukashenko and the world, through Bashar al-Assad in Syria, is that you dont have to back down when there are protests. You dont have to step down. You dont have to accede to their demands. You can just pound them into the pavement, and nobody will care and nobody will do anything. The international community wont come and save these people, even when hundreds of thousands of people are slaughtered and millions are forced from their homes and overwhelm neighboring countries with a refugee crisis. You can still win. Russia is making a big deal, for example, out of the presidential elections happening in Syria and how Bashar al-Assad is basically the consensus favorite because people are just so tired of the war. And I think thats what people like Putin and Lukashenko have learned: that you dont have to give an inch to these people, and you can kill them, and alsowhat we saw with MBS and Khashoggiyou can kill your opponents in the most horrific, brutal, medieval ways. And people will fuss in the West and theyll condemn you and issue statements. They might even punish you economically. But at the end of the day, theyre not going to come and force you from your throne. The days of Iraq and George W. Bush are over. And I think the lesson is repression works.

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California law enforcement officials are still piecing together clues in search of a motive for the mass shooting at the Valley Transportation Authority in San Jose on Wednesday morning that left nine dead, including the gunman.* Police were notified of shots being fired at 6:34 a.m. local time at the public transit service that operates bus and light rail in the region and have identified 57-year-old VTA employee Samuel James Cassidy as the shooter. Cassidy, who worked in maintenance and had been employed by the VTA for more than a decade, showed up at work Wednesday morning as the midnight shift and dayshift employees overlapped and shot and killed eight people in the maintenance yard of the rail yard before shooting himself.

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Police identified the victims as: Paul Delacruz Megia, 42; Taptejdeep Singh, 36; Adrian Balleza, 29; Jose Dejesus Hernandez III, 35; Timothy Michael Romo, 49; Michael Joseph Rudometkin, 40; Abdolvahab Alaghmandan, 63; and Lars Kepler Lane, 63. Some of the victims were confirmed co-workers at the VTA, which employs 2,000 people, but its unclear if all were workers at the public transportation depot. In the aftermath of the shooting, a bomb squad scoured the area for bombs after a dog detected the presence of explosive material. Light rail service was suspended for the day.

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San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo said co-workers had been worried about the shooter and expressed generalized concerns about his mental health. Neighbors described being fearful of the 57-year-old who was the only one they ever saw coming and going from his house. Former partners described an unstable man, prone to violent mood swings, who expressed contempt for his job and bosses. Surveillance video of the shooters house taken Wednesday morning showed a man believed to be the gunman leaving with a duffel bag. Police say more than one gun was used during the shooting. Soon after, a fire was reported at the shooters home that left the structure uninhabitable.
Josep Eduardo Almudever Mateu, thought to be the last surviving member of the International Brigades who volunteered to fight fascism in the Spanish Civil War, died on Sunday, in Pamiers, France.

Almudever died just two months before his 102nd birthday, but when he first joined the Pablo Iglesias Battalion of the Republican Army at 17, he lied about his age. He was injured at the Battle of Teruel, discovered, and sent home. His family had always been one of action and adventure; his mother was a circus performer and his father, a bricklayer, had been exiled to France for trying to burn down a church. Almudever was born there, and was a French citizen. He used this status to enlist in the International Brigades, in which he served as a fighter and translator for the Garibaldi Brigades.

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When the brigades made their final parade through the streets of Barcelona before being sent home in October 1938, Almudever hopped on a boat and returned. This time, he signed up as a Spaniard and kept fighting. He watched as the Republic collapsed and refugees rushed to his home region of Valencia; he watched as Britain and France refused to transport them and many chose to end their own lives rather than live under fascism.

Almudever stayed with his comrades and was captured, sentenced to death, and held in Francos concentration camps, where he watched his comrades be shot, starved, and tortured. He never knew if he was next. He was released in 1944, and promptly picked up his gun again and fought as a partisan against Franco until 1947.

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International volunteers in the Spanish Civil War have been the subject of much of my own academic work. I had the great good fortune to meet some of them when I was the same age Almudever had been when he went to war and to read their letters and diaries, and Ive had the great privilege of telling some of their stories since. Theyve been remembered, when they are remembered at all, as either faultless heroes or naively ideological fools. Theyd be the first to tell you they were neither, that war doesnt make heroes but makes broken people, and that ideology was the only thing that stopped fascism in the streets of Barcelona and Madrid.

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Roughly 45,000 men and women from more than 50 countries volunteered to stop the spread of fascism in Spain. Some of them were household names in their time and beyond, like Eric Arthur Blair (better known as George Orwell, who actually volunteered in a unit that was not part of the International Brigades), Willy Brandt, Memet Shehu (who fought alongside Almudever in the Garibaldi Battallion) and David Alfaro Siquieros. Most of them were working-class people who saw what happened in Germany and Italy and decided that fascism had to stop in Spain.

At a time when much of the world was segregated along lines of race and gender, the earliest versions of the Republican militia were not. German and Italian leftists who had taken advantage of the generous asylum policies of Spains Second Republic formed units named after leftist leaders from their countries. They planned to defeat fascism in Spain and then liberate their own countries with their Spanish comrades. They were joined by Jewish anti-fascists, Irish Republicans, British trade unionists, and Chinese farmers.

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The International Brigades were anti-fascist in a way that the Allied armies in World War II were not. Anti-fascist armies arent segregated by race; their officers are not selected on the basis of class. Its fitting that almost a decade later the first soldiers to liberate Paris were not Tommies or GIs, but 120 Spanish anarchists who had escaped capture and continued their fight in the French Foreign Legion.

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Units mixed races, religions, and languages, but increasingly became more doctrinaire communist as the war went on. In May 1937, hundreds of left-libertarian international volunteers, including Orwell, fought against authoritarian communists. If youve walked down La Rambla in Barcelona, youve walked through what was once a battle for the soul of the European left. Theres a Subway shop there now.

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Many of the volunteers had fought in World War I or their own national independence struggles. They fought with rifles that in some cases were made in the U.S., sent to the czar of Russia, captured by the Bolsheviks, sold to Mexico, and then shipped to Spain, where they found their way into the hands of American volunteers.

The largest contingent in the brigades were, like Almudever, French. At the time, France and Spain both had Popular Front governments that united socialists, liberals, communists, and some anarchists in opposition to fascism. The brigades represented a formalization of the earlier centuria, loosely nation-based militias that sprang up among German and Italian exiles and anti-fascists who were in Barcelona for the anti-fascist Popular Olympicsmeant to counter Hitlers 1936 Berlin Olympicsin the days following the military coup against Spains elected government.

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In the early months of the war, Western democracies made the decision to abandon the Republic, and fascist Germany and Italy made the decision to send men, planes, and arms to Francos nationalists. It was because of democracies nonintervention pact that Almudevers unit first made its way to the front with guns but no bullets. Ultimately, it was because of the fascists intervention that the Republic lost and Spanish democracy was destroyed. As Almudever himself said, this wasnt a civil war so much as a global conflict between democratic people and fascist governments.

Where their governments failed, citizens stepped up. In the battle of Madrid, International Brigadiers fought room to room and house to house. In the citys Complutense University, they stacked books as barricades and coined the slogan no pasaranThey shall not passas they halted the Francoist forces and died in thousands. Its a slogan that seemed more relevant than ever this year, and one I have seen raised against oppression everywhere from Caracas to California.

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In a year when anti-fascism has returned to the political discourse, the International Brigades have seen more attention as the high point of an intersectional and international anti-fascism. In Spain, Jewish dockers from New York were commanded by Black Communists from Texas, queer people (including the probable inspiration for Robert Jordan in Hemingways For Whom The Bell Tolls) commanded straight people, and men and women fought alongside one another against fascism. For years, they held their own.

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One in three volunteers died in Spain. Many more came home to face investigation, prosecution, and jail time. Black officers who left Spain as commanders came back to the U.S. and werent allowed to eat in the same room as the men theyd commanded. In Spain, volunteers learned to, in the words of American volunteer Milton Wolff, take on whole bloody professional fascist armies and kick the shit out of em; back home, their knowledge was ignored and many of them went on to die fighting in the war they had seen coming nine years earlier. But they did take some things with them, including the iconic raised fist salute that was the salute of the Republican Army and has since found itself on the right side of history with admirable consistency.

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Almudever lived long enough to see Franco die in his sleep, lie in a monument built by enslaved prisoners of war, and then be exhumed in October 2019. He also lived long enough to see the specter of fascism raise its head again around the world and lament the division of the working class in an interview given in 2016. Just a week after he gave that interview, Donald Trump was elected, and I couldnt sleep. I remember running through Barcelona at 5 a.m. and running into a freshly painted no pasaran under one of the many Spanish Republican flags that hang from balconies in the city just like they did when it said farewell to Almudever and his comrades in 1938. In Barcelona, the bullet holes from the Civil War havent been filled in yet, and 85 years after a 17-year-old young man took up arms against fascism, it seems more relevant than ever.

Almudever is survived by, among others, his 104-year-old brother Vicente, who also fought in the Republican Army.
A year has passed since the most notorious police murder of a Black man this century, and so little has changed. With each week, the public learns that yet another unarmed Black man has been killed by the police, more often by gun than by knee. Some will find my characterization too reductive; the circumstances of a police encounter matter, they will say. But it is the simple truth. About one Black man in 1,000 will be killed by a police officer, and nearly 1 in 5 of those men will be unarmed.

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Police chiefs who wish to serve and protector, short of that, to keep their jobsmust be open to significant operational changes. Heres one: Make it harder for officers to access firearms.

This policy could change the default setting of policing from lethally armed to unarmed.

In the field, a loaded handgun is rarely more than inches away from a police officers fingertips. This is true even when the officer is responding to a cat stuck in a tree, a car that has stalled in an intersection, or a teen with a spray can. Yet most of the tasks that officers perform pose little to no danger to them. While granular data can be hard to come by, three police departments, all covering urban areas, have granted public access to statistics breaking down officer activity. These data reveal that officers spend only about 4 percent of their time responding to crimes of violence.

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On the whole, police work is less dangerous than many other common jobs, such as farming, garbage collection, or driving a delivery vehicle, where death is about two to three times more likely to occur, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In 2020, garbage collectors experienced 34 deaths per 100,000 workers, delivery drivers 27, farmers 26 deaths, and police officers 14. Perhaps, then, we shouldnt be surprised that more unarmed people, regardless of race, are shot and killed by police officers than police officers are, themselves, shot and killed.

We must face up to the possibility that the near-constant presence of firearms is doing more harm than good. Not only to the countless people who have lost loved ones to a police bullet, but also to those who love the officer who shot it. Police who are involved in shootings frequently experience trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder, and the emotional consequences can be far worse when the shooting is accidental or based upon a mistake.

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There are undoubtedly moments that police officers rightfully need firearms, and the hard question is how to limit access to those moments. Technology provides a means: Guns could be kept in smart lockboxes.

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Using this mainstream and relatively inexpensive device, police dispatchers or qualified police personnel could remotely grant in-the-field officers immediate access to the contents of a lockbox. Under a new policy, remote access could be granted only when officers are responding to suspected crimes of violence or other similar dangers. For ordinary encounters, like routine traffic stops, the box would remain locked. As a fail-safe, officers could immediately override locks to respond to unforeseen and dangerous emergencies, but doing so would trigger mandatory review by an independent body. Under those circumstances, officers would face sanction if they failed to satisfy the body that the override was justified. Simply put, this policy could change the default setting of policing from lethally armed to unarmed.

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This is no small difference. For one, it will lower the stakes of police mistake. Pepper spray and electric shock cause excruciating pain, but the recipient will almost certainly make a complete physical recovery. Whats more, removing a lethal weapon is likely to change the dynamic of police encounters, making them less stressful and prone to error. Empirical studies have found evidence that simply wielding a gun makes one more likely to conclude that another person is holding a gun. And the absence of a police weapon could lower the likelihood that people questioned or detained by police will behave uncooperatively out of fear or anger. Numerous studies have replicated a behavioral phenomenon known as the weapons effect: just seeing a weapon increases the likelihood that a person will have aggressive or hostile thoughts. Taking guns out of routine police encounters could also improve public perception. In Great Britain, where unarmed police still outnumber armed police, a recent experiment found that people were more likely to give negative ratings to images of armed police officers.

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Of course, this is the United States, where gun violence is much, much higher than in Great Britain. But we can look to other American professions to improve our understanding of how access to firearms relates to the dangerousness of a job. Security guards provide the best analogy. Like police officers, security guards engage in crime deterrence and prevention, but unlike police officers, they usually do not carry firearms. Yet, on average, security guard deaths are much rarer than police officer deaths. Obviously, the two jobs are not exactly the same; police officers respond to crimes in much larger areas and are usually the safety measure of last resort. But security guard statistics should give us confidence that merely introducing friction between police and their firearms will not lead to a significant rise in police fatalities.

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Even with the research and statistics, critics might still argue that this is another form of gun control, one that will place Americas finest at a disadvantage against armed criminals. But this proposal is less about control than it is about accountability. In-the-field officers would still be able to access the same weaponry they always have, albeit indirectly in most instances. If they seek direct access, they must justify it, but only after the fact. Yes, gun governance would be shared, but the collaborator would be a fellow member of the force, one who is in a better position to make a dispassionate, composed decision. And because officers are still proximate to a firearm under this system, the policy is not likely to embolden those who wish them harm. While it is possible that an officer will be hurt or killed because her gun is still resting in its box, these tragedies will likely be outnumbered by the peaceful encounters that would otherwise have taken a dark turn had a gun been on the officers hip.

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There might be the objection that the policy relies too heavily upon people who are unable to witness circumstances of a police encounter firsthand. Putting aside the fact that lockbox overrides allow officers to respond quickly to emergent situations, this criticism doesnt give enough credit to the role that remote personnel, like 911 dispatchers, already play in police work. Most policing is responsive, and those responses rely primarily on advance descriptions provided by dispatchers; it is exceptional when an officer proactively discovers ongoing crime during patrol. The objection also lacks foresight. If the demands on remote personnel are higher, specialized training and technological assistance can improve performance. As to the latter, major police departments have already begun to invest significantly in A.I.-powered predictive policing techniques. These Big Data approaches currently suffer from defects, chief among them is the reification of racial bias. At present, computer scientists have struggled in their efforts to debias predictive policing tools, and some believe they may never work fairly. But if they are someday successful, the technology might usefully augment assessments that a crime of violence is occurring. If so, they could lower the risk that people who are not present at the scene will overlook important correlations or give too much weight to evidence that does not yield reliable predictions of danger.

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Others might object that the idea of using technology to change essential aspects of policing is too fanciful for real life. But employing remote-controlled lockboxes for police firearms is not a novel concept. Patents for police devices resembling the one I describe are old news, having existed for more than a decade. Mainstream companies, like Estes AWS, already market wireless, automated gun lockers for vehicles to police departments. Outside of policing, smart locks have been normalized; they are the primary locking mechanism for millions of homes.

To be sure, the idea of using of this technology as a prophylactic for misuse of police firearms has mostly been the stuff of science fiction. The dystopian HBO series Watchmen tells the story of a police officer whose gun is secured by a remote locking mechanism in the dashboard of his vehicle. Despite recognizing that he is in danger, the officer is forced to answer a dispatchers agonizingly slow series of questions so that his gun can be remotely unlocked. As a result of the delay, the officer is unable to defend himself and is shot. While it is a tense and effective scene, it ultimately fails to do the underlying idea justice. Some critics described it as a dig  at what it sees as liberal overreach and as lazily leaning on a conservative world view in its reaction to a sensible reform. The fictional scenes biggest shortcoming, however, is its failure to show that any implementation of remote lockboxes in the real world would allow immediate manual access without preapproval.

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I am not naive; I expect that this measure will strike many police departments, unions, and officers as too extreme. They should realize, however, that a potentially larger number of readers will say that this measure does not goes far enough. For them, the solution is to take police off the streets, not to change how they behave. There can be no denying that defunding the police is a mainstream movement; in New York City, home of the countrys largest police force, more than half of the candidates running for mayor have promised significant cuts to the police budget. Police officers interested in self-preservation should support this measure: If only because it signals that they are willing to make sacrifices in the interest of public safety and racial equity without threatening their job security or changing their job description.

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Yes, there will arise the need to refine this policy over the course of its development. It is not obvious where the lockboxes should be placed, who should make up the composition of the reviewing body, whether override justifications should require probable cause of imminent danger or a more lenient standard like reasonable suspicion, or how severely that body should punish unjustified overrides. But these particulars cannot serve as an excuse to stand still. Departments should launch their own smart lockbox pilot programs so that they can learn what works and what doesnt.

Many police departments have recognized that maintaining the status quo will do nothing to stop the disproportionate killing of Black men. They must further face the possibility that the gun has become a dangerous security blanket, one that, despite its apparent comfort, makes it harder for them to keep the peace. By making firearms a tool of exception, police could make fewer mistakes, cause less harm, and enhance their legitimacy. Embracing discomfort takes courage, but should we expect anything less from those who wear the badge?

Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society.
Za Ludi may break up as it attempts to change its leader

Junior coalition party is experiencing problems that may disrupt the Heger government.

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The smallest coalition party, Za Ludi, has been experiencing tremors for a few months now. In the latest escalation of tension, some of its members launched an attempt to replace Veronika Remisova as the party leader, but observers openly doubt the party can be saved.

Voices from inside the party suggest that there are two groups of members  those who stand behind current chair Remisova and those who would like to see someone else instead of her, most likely Justice Minister Maria Kolikova. Both sides have lately been quite vocal with their criticism of each other in the media. Judging from the development so far, observers say the attempt to replace the woman in the top post could go either way.

The party that, contrary to high expectations, made it to parliament with just above 5 percent of the votes necessary to enter the house, has since been oscillating under the parliamentary threshold in the polls. This year, it saw three prominent members depart, two of them still MPs. Regional boards of the party in Presov, Kosice and Nitra have recently called for an unscheduled party congress, while a similar decision is expected from Bratislava and Zilina.

It is obvious that there are disagreements within the party that could be seen not only through the media but also ideologically since Veronika Remisova has tried to identify herself against the 'liberal-progressive' wing in the party, Viera Zuborova, political analyst and director of the Bratislava Policy Institute, told The Slovak Spectator.

The party, founded shortly before the 2020 election by former president Andrej Kiska, was formed as a centrist party where such issues should be second-rate, but unfortunately, they are not, the analyst added.

Problems with or without Remisova

The party elected Veronika Remisova to its chair in August last year, after Kiska stepped down from the top party post after the February 2020 election and withdrew from politics altogether.

At the congress in Trencianske Teplice, he supported Remisova against Miroslav Kollar, the Hlohovec mayor and MP who has since left the party and joined the non-parliamentary Spolu.

Post-election polls have made it clear that many voters supported Za Ludi because of Kiska, said political analyst Radovan Stefancik from the University of Economics in Bratislava.

"For them, the content, the ideological focus or the pre-election promises was not as important as the personality of the leader," Stefancik told The Slovak Spectator.

27. May 2021 at 9:00 | Nina Hrabovska Francelova
Collusive custody will change. Coalition seems to have found an agreement

The justice minister and the speaker of parliament talk about a compromise solution.

Boris Kollar (l) and Maria Kolikova (r) announce the changes to collusive custody. (Source: SITA)

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The coalition parties seemed to have found a compromise for changes to collusive custody, the strictest type of custody designed to prevent defendants from tampering with evidence and influencing witnesses.

Collusive custody should, for example, be shortened from the current seven months to five, and it should not be possible to prolong, as stems from an amendment to the Criminal Procedure Code submitted by Justice Minister Maria Kolikova (Za Ludi), which the cabinet approved on May 26.

The changes to collusive custody have been widely discussed in the past few weeks, particularly by the opposition and coalition party Sme Rodina. The latter even took legislative initiative and, through their MP Petra Hajselova, proposed its own changes to the conditions of pre-trial custody, going against their coalition partner, the justice minister.

With the Justice Ministry-authored amendment, the party is ready to withdraw its proposal, the TASR newswire reported.

What should change?

27. May 2021 at 11:32 | Compiled by Spectator staff
Flights between Poprad and Bratislava should be offered this autumn

Flights to Prague are currently under negotiation.

Regular flights from Bratislava to Poprad and back may be launched soon. (Source: TASR)

Font size: A - | A +

Flights from the Poprad Airport to Bratislava will most likely be offered this autumn.

The director of the Poprad - Tatry Airport, Peter Dujava, confirmed this after meeting with Transport and Construction Minister Andrej Dolezal in Poprad, the SITA newswire reported.

According to Dujava, the negotiations are underway, but he did not want to specify for now which carrier will provide the service that has been in the works for a long time.

A sixty-seat aircraft should be used for the regular flight, which will continue from Bratislava.

Summer charters

Another novelty will be the flight connection with Croatia during the summer, probably with Split or Zadar.



According to Dujava, the airport will also operate flights to Antalya, Turkey and Bulgaria. He added that if the situation with Covid-19 is favourable, the Poprad airport plans to operate 50 charter flights during the summer.

From June, the flight connection with London will resume.

"We would like to include the Netherlands in regular flights, which was a topic of this airport in the past, but the negotiations failed," said Dujava.

According to the director, flights to Prague are currently under negotiation.

27. May 2021 at 16:45 | Compiled by Spectator staff
Page Content

Savannah Early College High School junior, Corey Straughter, Jr. has been named a Bank of America Student Leader for 2021. This prestigious program helps prepare students to enter the workforce through skills-building and leadership development. Corey is among 300 young people from across the country who were selected as Student Leaders.





Corey was selected, among other qualifications, because of his desire to help his community with financial literacy and to help those less fortunate than himself. Since 2004, the Bank of America Student Leaders program recognizes 300 community-focused juniors and seniors every year. These students are engaged in an eight-week, paid internship, working closely with local nonprofits like Goodwill Southeast Georgia, developing leadership and workforce skills, and participating in a week-long virtual leadership summit. This program is part of the bank's overall commitment to youth employment, helping to prepare a diverse pipeline of young talent for success in the workforce.



Congratulations Corey!






But for her elected office, the governor would not have incurred the security expenses for travel to see her ailing father on short notice, Trebilcock said.

He also disclosed that Whitmer's two daughters were on the return flight after helping manage their grandfather's health issues for several weeks while attending college and high school remotely. The governor will reimburse her committee for the cost of a first-class commercial airline ticket for herself and her daughters. Her office had previously said she would pay $855 for her flight.

The business jet is registered to Air Eagle, whose agent is John Nicholson, executive vice president of PVS, according to state records. An aide to Whitmer contacted PVS on or around March 8 to ask if it had a plane to fly her to Florida, according to the letter. She left March 12 and returned March 15.

The campaign also paid $22,670 for the governor's Jan. 19-21 trip to and from Washington, D.C., for President Joe Biden's inauguration, Trebilcock said. The private plate was operated by New Hudson-based Solomon Plumbing Co.

We did this to set the record straight and provide answers to Rep. Johnsons questions, campaign spokesman Mark Fisk said.
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Gary Don Hendricks, left, has been awarded "Employee of the Year" for 2020 by the city of Celina.
In a somewhat rare event, Indian counterintelligence (spy detecting and catching) efforts recently arrested an Indian man who was not a government or military employee recruited via social media using honey traps (sex). In this latest case the spy was Harpal Singh, a 35-year-old civilian from northwestern India (Punjab). He was arrested in April when he came to the Indian capital to receive more information from sources and was arrested. Singh had been under surveillance for several months after police in his neighborhood received tips about him suddenly receiving large sums of money via an illegal hawala broker and making a recent trip to Oman. That trip was unusual because of the covid19 restrictions and the fact that Singh was not a wealthy man, but a farm machinery operator who often worked maintaining the fences along the nearby Pakistani border and had a history of being highly critical of the Indian government.

India has established a nationwide database system for such tips from local police about criminal activity that did not appear to be just local crime. The National police analyzed these tips for patterns indicating criminal, Islamic terrorists or espionage activity and the tips concerning Singh triggered an investigation that collected enough evidence to enable the surveillance and arrest in mid-April.

The tips indicated unusual behavior because Singh was not known for any association with smugglers or any other illegal activity. Police check for that before anyone is allowed to do work on the border fence and at nearby border guard and army bases. Being critical of the Indian government was considered normal but Singh had posted some of his opinions on the Internet and in mid-2020 that was noticed by an ISI (Pakistani intelligence) recruiter looking for well-placed Indians who might be recruited as spies and initially approached Singh via the Internet. After several months of discussions, ISI decided that Singh was recruitable and the deal was sealed when ISI arranged for Singh to meet his ISI handler in Oman, a Persian Gulf state that is a popular meeting place for discussing all manner of legal and illegal activities. Oman doesnt care as long as you dont break any local laws.

Singh turned out to be a valuable asset as he had regular access to the India-Pakistan border in Punjab, an ancient South Asian region that was divided between India and Pakistan when the British colonial rule ended in 1947 and the new states of India, Pakistan, Burma and Sri Lanka were created. A lot of those left living near a newly created border were not happy with the situation and while many got used to it, resentments survived, especially since the new governments were more corrupt than the colonial administration. Pakistan has done more to create and exploit these border-related resentments and Harpal Singh, being a Sikh, had more resentments towards the Hindu majority in India than the Moslem majority in Pakistan. Pakistan intelligence has developed a large number of veteran recruiters who can identify and recruit Indians with such vulnerabilities.

Another noteworthy aspect of this case was that the tips indicated Singh was suddenly receiving large sums (for India) via hawala, a traditional and informal banking network that is illegal in India but survives because there is still large demand for it from legitimate and illegal users. The main disadvantage with hawala is that it is more expensive for highly illegal users, like foreign intelligence operatives. The higher the risk of losses (to law enforcement, gangsters or corrupt government officials), the higher the commissions charged to move or park cash. The hawala system has been around for a long time. It is the Arab version of the South Asian hundi system that was developed thousands of years ago to facilitate long-range trade between China, Central Asia, South Asia and the Middle East. Hawala works because there are trusted (by each other) Hawala brokers at each end of the transaction. Commissions vary from under one percent (today, using modern communications) to ten percent or more for large amounts of dangerous (as in Islamic terrorist or espionage related) cash. Hawalas currently move several hundred billion dollars worth of cash each year for legitimate reasons such as business transactions and expatriate workers sending money back home. Someone sending money to another country must find a hawala broker with partners in the other country. The sender gives the local hawala broker an amount of cash, minus a commission, which usually covers delivering the money in another currency at the other end. The sender receives a secret code that is then sent to the person to receive the money, who then goes to the local hawala broker and, in return for the secret code, receives the money. Hawala dealers settle (balance) their accounts by either transporting cash or, more frequently, by using the surplus at one end to buy local goods for export to the hawala broker the money is owed to. Hawala brokers are often partners with import/export businesses.

Because hawala networks keep minimal records, their services are often used by gangsters, espionage agencies and Islamic terrorists. This type of business is riskier and, to account for potential losses, higher fees are charged. For remittances of expatriate workers to family back home, hawala is often cheaper and faster than legitimate bank transfer systems. That is because these remittances are generally small amounts sent on a regular basis. But criminal organizations like drug gangs and ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant) want to move large quantities of cash, often in a hurry. Many hawala networks cant handle it but the more enterprising and fearless hawala brokers will gear up to do it and get rich or get killed or imprisoned in the process.

Because of the suitability of hawala being used for illegal transactions, hawala has been outlawed in many parts of the world, including India and Pakistan. Hawala still operates in those areas, but the fees are higher. In the West, hawala has had a hard time dealing with modern police methods which now includes a lot of pattern analysis of legitimate financial transactions and overall economic activity that has proved successful at detecting the large-scale hawala networks catering to criminal organizations.

Both Indian and Pakistani intel agencies use hawala and tolerate the presence of hawala networks that avoid deliberate dealings with Islamic terrorists or organized crime. Intel agencies find hawala brokers can be important sources of information, which the hawala brokers are willing to provide as long as it does not harm legitimate customers. Users like Harpal Singh, who had no record of criminal of Islamic terror connections, are quickly suspected of espionage. Thats because Harpal Singh had easy access to a lot of information Pakistani intelligence was seeking and willing to pay for. When arrested, Singhs cellphone was found to contain hundreds of pictures and videos taken while he was working on the border fence or near border guard or army facilities. The interrogation of Singh continues and while he only received about $3,000 from Pakistan, it turned out to be money well spent for them. The interrogation will seek to discover that Singh was told by his handler about remaining undetected. Singh had long term potential as a source, as long as he remained undetected. He did things some people in the neighborhood considered suspicious and that is something more experienced operatives avoid.

Pakistan has made greater use of the Internet to recruit and run (supervise) informants inside India. Most of the information obtained this way is not of high value so Indian intelligence apparently seeks to observe such operatives in action long enough to gather more information on what kinds of tradecraft (techniques) the Pakistanis were currently using.

The use of Internet-detected and recruited agents is just another battle in the decades-long espionage war between Pakistan and India. Just like the more conventional wars, Pakistan has fought with India since both states were created, Pakistan has never won any clear victories. Intelligence operations tend to be sustained, not episodic like wars. Pakistan has performed better at it than their larger neighbor, by about six times in terms of population and GDP, somewhat less in military terms. Pakistan can take credit for accomplishing more than the size discrepancy indicates but this, like many Pakistani military actions, seems directed more at impressing Pakistanis in general than in doing any significant damage to their chosen archenemy.

Since the 1990s Pakistan has quietly and extensively changed how it recruited and managed spies inside India. For decades Pakistan mainly relied on agents recruited and trained in Pakistan to pass as Indian. After their training, which often took years, was completed these agents were sent to India where they often spent many more years working their way into jobs where they could obtain useful information. The Pakistani agents also sought Indians willing to gather information, usually for a price. India is a poor country and many low level and poorly paid government employees were willing to sell information if the price was right. All this was very expensive and the Pakistanis were always on the lookout for more efficient (and cheaper) techniques.

The use of virtual honey traps (promises of sex from attractive Internet based women) first became known when it was used against Indians by Pakistan. But these techniques were also used against other nations (Taiwan, South Korea and Japan) by China. The most details are available about the use of these techniques by Pakistan against India. These details began to emerge after 2012. It all began when India became more effective at catching traditional Pakistani spies. Over the years India learned how to quickly detect, identify and arrest these spies as well as their Pakistani handlers. As a result, Pakistan began switching from using agents inside India to recruiting and managing spies via the Internet. The highly trained Pakistani agents could remain safe in Pakistan and develop techniques to find and manage Indian spies via the Internet. India still catches these traditional spies but has come to discover that there are a lot more of them. Since 2015 dozens have been arrested. This included four post office employees who were intercepting mail sent from one Indian base to another and looking for salable information. That was passed on to Pakistan, which paid well for this stuff. Often the information was literally phoned in using a hard-to-trace SIM card supplied by the Pakistanis.

Pakistan accepted the risk of these spies getting caught because the payoff was often considerable. In one case Indian police arrested an employee (a cameraman) for the government defense research organization (DRDO) and accused him of spying for Pakistan. The suspect was accused of passing on information about missile research and tests and doing so for up to ten months. The suspect admitted that he had met with ISI (Pakistani intelligence) agents in India several times. Apparently, this man was caught because Indian intelligence was monitoring ISI agents.

In addition to cash, Pakistan has found that sex also works and is being used more frequently via the Internet. In mid-2014 an Indian army warrant officer (Subedar) was arrested and charged with spying for Pakistan. The arrested man had been recruited in 2013 via Facebook by a woman who sent him software that he posted to his work server. This software enabled the Pakistanis to hack into the headquarters where the warrant officer worked. The Pakistani woman (or someone posing as a woman) convinced the warrant officer she was interested in him and asked him to help her with some work she was doing for the NGO she was employed by. The warrant officer fell for all this and enabled the Pakistanis to get a lot of information about the readiness and deployment of several Indian missile units.

Such honey traps have been encountered in India for quite some time and were known to exist in antiquity. Honey traps are less frequently encountered in South Asia and the most common method is still simply offering cash. Pakistan is constantly seeking Indian military personnel willing to spy for cash or sex. Even most Indian Moslems have no love for Pakistan and thus ISI concentrates on the greed, need or blackmail approach to recruiting Indian agents. India does the same in Pakistan, but India is a far larger target and has more secrets Pakistan wants. The virtual honey pot, however, has turned out to be very effective and apparently cheaper than the traditional methods of offering cash and using physical contact (between foreign handler and local recruited agent). More effective forms of encrypted Internet communication also help as does the fact that so many of the people targeted have smartphones and regularly access the Internet via those devices.
The judge said that he issued the judgment in response to a dozen false statements made by Endos attorneys to the court, along with other willful attempts to twist the legal process by Endo and A&P.

It appears to the court that Endo and its attorneys, after delaying trial, have resorted to trying to improperly corrupt the record, Moody wrote in the judgment. Although this is a harsh sanction, justice demands it under the circumstances.

At the end of the judgment, Moody also pushed A&Ps attorneys to defend themselves: He said that each partner or shareholder at the firm who had been admitted pro hac vice to the case had 30 days to show the judge why he shouldnt revoke that status.

Pro hac vice is a kind of temporary permit for attorneys that lets them work in jurisdictions where they arent licensed to practice, according to the Cornell Law Schools Legal Information Institute. Lawyers cant practice law outside their jurisdictions without it.

In their response to Moodys order  which they wrote with the help of an outside law firm they hired  the A&P lawyers said that they and Endo had both independently decided that it was best for A&P to step down as Endos main defense.
The verdict was a victory for climate activists from Germany and elsewhere who  with the support of environmental groups  had filed four complaints to the Constitutional Court arguing that their rights were at risk by the lack of sufficient targets beyond the next decade.

This month, German officials proposed that the country could bring forward the date for reducing its greenhouse gas emissions to net zero to 2045.

In Australia, the teenagers who filed the case were led by 17-year-old Anjali Sharma with the aid of a so-called litigation guardian, Catholic nun Sister Brigid Arthur, 86.

One of the children, 17-year-old Ava Princi, described the judgment as a relief and called on Ley to ensure the mine extension never occurs.

This is the first time a court of law anywhere in the world has recognized that a government minister has a duty of care to protect young people from the catastrophic harms of climate change, Princi told reporters.

My future and the future of all young people depends on Australia stepping away from fossil fuel projects and joining the world in taking decisive action," she said.
I worry that were going to start seeing a discrepancy in cases and rates and hospitalizations and deaths between counties that have higher vaccination rates and other counties that dont, he said.

+2 COVID-19 vaccinations help reduce Cowlitz County case rates Cowlitz Countys COVID-19 cases continue to decline, with increasing vaccinations likely accounting for a large part of the decrease, accordin

The clearest example of the connection between cases and vaccinations is King County, which has about 73% of residents 16 and older initiated vaccination as of Saturday, and falling COVID-19 cases, Krager said. The county recorded 158 new cases per 100,000 people from May 4-17, compared to 192 per 100,000 statewide.

As of Saturday, about 61% of Washington residents 16 and older had initiated vaccination. About 51% of Cowlitz County residents 16 and older had initiated vaccination.

Cowlitz Countys COVID-19 cases had been dropping since early April but may have leveled off recently, according to the county report.

Adults 65 and older have the lowest per capital case rate of any age group, the report says. Youth 0 to 19 experienced the largest proportional increase in cases from mid-March to mid-April.

COVID-19 hospitalizations decreased since mid-April but may have leveled off, according to the report. The hospitalization rate for 35 to 49-year-olds is on track to exceed the rate among older adults.

COVID-19 outbreaks, deaths decrease but persist at Cowlitz County long-term care facilities Outbreaks at Cowlitz County long-term care facilities have decreased over the past couple months but are still happening and leading to deaths
The tents in the encampment arent waterproof, Hendrickson said. The roughly 100 people living there either lay on the often wet ground or on makeshift beds made of donated pallets or plastic or rubber mats.

Schauer learned to crochet around the age of 14 from his mother. Growing up, his sister fashioned door mats out of plastic bread bags, but it wasnt until about eight decades later that Schauer started subbing plastic for fabric when a friend told him about crocheting mats for the homeless.

+4 Hosted encampment plan advances, Longview City Council to consider joint agreement with Cowlitz County again May 13 The Longview City Council advanced a plan Thursday for a hosted homeless encampment after more than two hours of discussion and public comment.

Hooking and stitching the thick recycled bags is hard, Schauer said. He doesnt know many who have the strength to create the mats. Most of his method came through trial and error. Once, he labored over the bulky plastic that encased a new tire, he said, but never again.

When others cant create the mats, they donate.

Friends and members of Schauers church Bethany Lutheran donate countless white and tan grocery bags, then rip 2-inch sections, tie them together and roll into balls. Schauer crochets the mounds into speckled patterns. Each mat has a unique design, as well as a handle to carry or tie to a belt or bag once rolled up.

Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help Support local news coverage and the people who report it by subscribing to The Daily News.
Garcetti, 50, who considered a 2020 White House bid and later became part of Bidens inner circle, emerged as a widely discussed possibility to join Bidens Cabinet last year. But he took himself out of the running, saying the raging coronavirus crisis made it impossible for him to step away.

The two-term mayor would leave LA with an uneven record. He has been credited with continuing a transit buildup in a city choked with traffic, establishing tougher earthquake safety standards for thousands of buildings and steering the city though the deadly pandemic as it became a hot spot for infections. Cases have fallen steeply in the city and some restrictions have been rolled back, consistent with the trajectory in the state.

But Garcetti was overmatched by a crisis of homelessness that became a national embarrassment despite the massive jump in government spending to fight it. Many streets and sidewalks remain cratered and crumbling, despite his early pledge to make fixing them a cornerstone of his administration.
I feel really sorry for all those families, because these things arent supposed to happen. I feel sorry for the family of even the person who did this thing, he said.

Jesus Hernandezs former wife, Sarah, said waiting to find out what happened Wednesday was torturous. She tried to channel her former husband's logic and calm.

I just tried to be very logical and think, Thousands of people work there, theres no way, lets just wait to hear and not get worked up, Im sure hes fine, Im sure hes on scene and he cant have his phone,  Sarah Hernandez said.



TAPTEJDEEP SINGH:

Taptejdeep Singh, 36, called another Valley Transportation Authority employee to warn him about Samuel Cassidy, saying he needed to get out or hide.

He told me he was with Paul (Delacruz Megia), another victim, at the time, coworker Sukhvir Singh, who is not related to him, said in a statement. From what Ive heard, he spent the last moments of his life making sure that others  in the building and elsewhere  would be able to stay safe.
Got a question or tip? Contact us at bizmojoidaho@gmail.com.
It was an interesting day in the world of technology today. On one hand, Microsoft hosted Build 2021 conference wherein it announced collaborative apps for Teams. On the other hand, Google Chrome registered over 3 billion users.

So, here's what happened in tech today:

Microsoft announces collaborative apps for Teams

Microsoft is also opening up Teams to developers to build apps which will be called collaborative apps. With this developers will be able to use standard web technologies, JavaScript, and Teams APIs to integrate into Teams.

Instagram brings Insights to Reels, Live Videos

Instagram will now start showing insights for Reels and Live. Instagram lets creators and businesses keep a check on their accounts progress through its Insight tool. Now users will be able to check the performance of their Reels and Live videos as well.

Instagram, Facebook get a feature to hide like count

Facebook today announced that now Instagram and Facebook users will have the option to hide their public like counts. Users can also choose to hide like counts before sharing a post. Alternatively, users can turn this setting on or off even after it goes live.

Google Chrome now has more than 3 billion users

A new report suggests that Google Chrome is being used by over 3.2 billion users around the world. According to a report by AtlasVPN, Googles browser is now being used by 3,25,82,56,887 users  or 41 percent of the population and over 60 percent of all devices.

Google News Showcase is now on the desktop
Critics say facial recognition risks eliminating anonymity in public spaces.

Privacy organisations on Thursday complained to regulators in five European countries over the practices of Clearview AI, a company that has built a powerful facial recognition database using images "scraped" from the web.

Clearview's use of imagesincluding those from people's social media accountsto offer biometrics services to private companies and law enforcement "goes far beyond what we could ever expect as online users", Ioannis Kouvakas, legal officer at Privacy International, said in a statement.

While Clearview touts its technology's ability to help law enforcement, its critics say facial recognition is open to abuse and could ultimately eliminate anonymity in public spacespointing to cases like China's massive public surveillance system.

Facial recognition has also been attacked for failing to distinguish non-white people's faces and women as well as it can identify white, male imagespotentially leading to false positives.

Alongside three other digital rights organisations, PI has filed complaints with data regulators in France, Austria, Italy, Greece and Britain.

"We expect them to join forces in ruling that Clearview's practices have no place in Europe, which would have meaningful ramifications for the company's operations globally," PI said.

In February, Canada's privacy commissioner found that the firm's activity "is mass surveillance and it is illegal" under the country's privacy laws.

And British and Australian privacy watchdogs last year launched a joint probe of their own.

"Just because something is 'online' does not mean it is fair game to be appropriated by others in any which way they want toneither morally nor legally," said Alan Dahi, a data protection lawyer at Austrian privacy group Noyb.

Clearview came to public prominence in a January 2020 New York Times report that detailed how it was already working with law enforcement, including the US FBI and Department of Homeland Security.

On its website, it boasts the "largest known database of 3+ billion facial images sourced from public-only web sources, including news media, mugshot websites, public social media, and many other open sources".

Founder Hoan Ton-That acknowledged to the NYT at the time that Clearview was breaching the terms of service of Facebook and other social media sites by gathering users' photos.

Facebook, Twitter, YouTube (Google) and LinkedIn (Microsoft) have all protested against Clearview's practices.

And last year, tech firms including Microsoft and Amazon suspended sales of facial recognition software to police forces when confronted with 2020's Black Lives Matter movement.

Amazon last week extended the original one-year moratorium "until further notice".

But "tools for conducting facial recognition are widely available" even outside the big tech companies, according to journalist Nicolas Kayser-Bril, who complied a report on the technology for advocacy group AlgorithmWatch last year that found at least 10 European police forces using it.

Explore further Canada probe concludes Clearview AI breached privacy laws

 2021 AFP
France and Germany hope to shore up support for a global minimum tax rate plan proposed by the United States.

France and Germany pushed for a "historic" agreement among major economies on a minimum tax rate for multinational corporations Wednesday, hoping to shore up support after sceptical European countries expressed opposition to the plan.

Spearheaded by US President Joe Biden, the proposal for a 15 percent minimum tax rate has hit turbulence after Ireland's finance minister expressed "significant reservations" over it.

"The change of (US) administration offers a historic opportunity... and we have to seize opportunities when they present themselves. It's now. It's now that we must act," insisted French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire at a joint press conference ahead of the upcoming Franco-German Economic and Financial Council.

His German counterpart Olaf Scholz said he was "optimistic" about the chances of sealing an agreement he said would end "disastrous fiscal competition" between countries.

"We are very close to concluding an international agreement" which will lead to "a revolution in international corporate taxation," Scholz added.

Biden's administration last week called for agreement on a unified tax rate of a minimum of 15 percent in negotiations with the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the G20.

But on Tuesday Ireland's Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe said the country had "a really significant concern" about a global rate that meant "only certain countries, and certain size economies can benefit from that base".

Eyes on G7

The objection carries weight because Ireland hosts an outsized number of technology and pharmaceutical firms that were attracted to the country for its lower tax rate.

Last month, Dublin's finance ministry released a projection saying it could lose two billion euros ($2.4 billion) each year in revenue starting in 2025 if a global minimum tax rate is enacted.

Donohoe's concerns were echoed by Hungary's foreign minister on a trip to Dublin on Tuesday.

"Like Ireland, Hungary is in favour of a low level of tax," Peter Szijjarto said.

Ireland's corporate tax rate is currently 12.5 percent and Hungary's is nine percentwhereas France and Germany impose rates of almost 30 percent, according to OECD calculations.

Luxembourg, also home to myriad multinational companies, said it was in favour of "minimum taxation" in order to create "conditions for fair competition" between countriesbut has not commented specifically on the proposed 15 percent rate.

Finance ministers from the G7 group of advanced nationsconsisting of Germany, Canada, the United States, France, Italy, Japan and Britainare set to meet next week in London, where they could endorse the US proposal.

Le Maire said he, Scholz and British Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak had agreed to do "their utmost" to draw up an agreement at the meeting.

They will then build upon on that at the larger G20 session in July in Venice, Le Maire said, adding that "step by step we will manage to convince all of our partners".

The IMF's leader on Tuesday also offered her endorsement to the plan.

Finance chiefs have characterized a minimum tax as necessary to stem competition between countries over who can offer multinationals the lowest rate.

They say that "race to the bottom" saps revenues that could go to other government priorities.

Explore further Global minimum tax for corporations inches towards reality

 2021 AFP
Credit: Heriot-Watt University

Scientists from Heriot-Watt University have secured six-figure funding from Innovate-UK on a project led by BT to develop practical quantum key distribution (QKD) transmitter and receiver modules for short range terrestrial applications.

The technology will form a central component in a world-first trial of end-to-end quantum-secured communications for 5G and connected cars.

Heriot-Watt's work will support BT and its other project partners to harness fixed fibre and free-space networks, and quantum-enhanced security chips in mobile devices for the first time, providing an ultra-secure link between connected 5G towers and mobile devices. The ambition is to create the world's most secure fixed-mobile communications link.

QKD is an un-hackable, cutting edge technique for sharing encryption 'keys' between locations using a stream of encoded single photons (quantum bits). The project, called AIRQKD, combines BT's globally leading expertise in building quantum-secure networks using QKD with new techniques for applying quantum security to mobile devices.

The Heriot-Watt team brings essential expertise of practical QKD by leading the design, testing, and construction of the QKD transmitter and receiver prototypes. The team will also support other project partners developing novel single-photon source and detector technologies for the commercial products.

The trial, which will run for 36 months, will see the development of a wide range of quantum-secured scenarios in which the security of data transfer is especially important.

Dr. Ross Donaldson from Heriot-Watt University explains: "Our focus is on how to create a core to this system that will still operate in very tough conditions. Up to now, most quantum communication research has concentrated on the integrity of long-range signals, but this is about delivering a constant service at short distances through the broad range of weather conditions which can cause connection issues.

"As our connected world becomes increasingly complex, the security of systems must keep pace with technological developments. Automated vehicles in the future will have their own connected systems with software updates being supplied from a central source. It is essential that these updates are sent securely without the risk of hacking or malicious tampering. Quantum-enabled technology provides a greater level of reassurance to manufacturers.

"Industry collaborations of this type are a demonstration of the value of university research when addressing challenges in a real-world context. This is an example of an academic paper being translated into direct benefit to industry as well as increasing security for the wider public."

Prof. Andrew Lord, BT's head of optical network research, said: "We are thrilled to have brought together leading UK partners from industry and academia in the AIRQKD project. Heriot-Watt University bring unique skills and with their expertise we will demonstrate a fully integrated Free Space Optics plus Quantum Key Distribution field trial. This will provide the essential security needed for future 5G applications such as autonomous vehicles."

Other applications for the research will include connected cars, mass manufacturing and Internet of Things devices.

The full trial is funded with 7.7M by the Quantum Technologies Challenge, led by UK Research and Innovation. AIRQKD is an Innovate UK funded project involving the following partners: BT, Lexden Technologies, OLC, Duality, Bristol University, Fraunhofer Centre for Applied Photonics, Strathclyde University, Warwick University Manufacturing Group, Bay Photonics, Heriot-Watt University, Angoka, ArQit, Nu Quantum, National Physical Laboratory, CSA Catapult, Edinburgh University.

Explore further Complex shapes of photons to boost future quantum technologies
Multimedia Reporter

Staff writer Harry Funk, a professional journalist for three-plus decades, has been on the staff of The Almanac since 2015. He has a bachelors degree in journalism and master of business administration, both from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
South Hills (15301)

Today

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 83F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 63F. Winds light and variable.


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Good Bull BBQ in College Station was open for the final time on Tuesday.

Restaurant general manager Roy May, a former Yell Leader at Texas A&M and A&M class of 2015, said in a tweet on Monday night that the restaurant would be closing.

I had the privilege of undertaking this task a few years ago just starting out catering from a prep kitchen, May wrote. Getting from that, to the trailer, to the brick & mortar has been a lot of hard work, but most of all has been due to all of your support.

The barbecue restaurant opened in 2016, catering from a prep kitchen. Good Bull BBQ founder Thomas Sitton launched a food truck in January 2017, operating out of the Shell gas station on George Bush Drive. The restaurant moved into its current location in a strip of businesses on George Bush Drive in September 2017.
PHOENIX (AP)  The Arizona Senate on Thursday pulled the plug on a plan to vote on a budget and instead adjourned until June 10 unless they break the impasse earlier on the $12.8 billion spending plan.

Republican Senate President Karen Fann announced Thursday afternoon that her hopes of getting all 16 Republican members to back the deal she reached with House Speaker Rusty Bowers and Gov. Doug Ducey had fallen though. Some members complained about too much spending while others worry the tax cuts are too large.

The House reached the same conclusion Wednesday, adjourning until June 10 unless they can reach a deal with their members sooner. With only a one-vote majority in each chamber and no Democratic support for the budget deal that includes a massive tax cut, Republicans could only lose one vote.

We thought we were really, really close to getting a budget done today, heads up or heads down, whichever, Fann told the assembled senators. And over the last less than 12 hours were further apart now than we were. A lot of new requests, a lot of new demands."

So it would be futile for us to try and put this up, she said. We obviously need to get things back together again and figure out where were going to go from here.
Your actions would shut down legal American businesses. I would say your actions are not working to advance the economy but actively working against it, said Missouri Republican Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer.

Goldman Sachs' Solomon said that industries like coal are legacy industries but banks will be there to help those companies transition into new technologies.

There will be new technologies that will create new, even better paying jobs, something that America has always led in, he said.

Luetkemeyer and other Republicans also pushed on the fact that many of these big banks actively seek to do business in China, which has been accused of numerous human rights violations.

Several members on Congress also asked the CEOs about inflation. Trillions of dollars have been spent under former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden to combat the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. The economic recovery is well underway, but prices for things such as lumber, steel and gasoline have risen sharply in recent months.

When asked whether inflation is an issue, JPMorgan's Dimon said that inflation was heating up, but we are not boiling yet. Solomon echoed the comments from Dimon, saying that the economy was not overheating yet but I would be cautious.
Last week, spokespeople for HUD and GLO shifted the blame to one another for reasons that Harris County and Houston were not awarded funds.

Mike Burns, deputy assistant secretary for public affairs at HUD, said last week although the department approves the state's distribution plan, Texas was responsible for creating the allocation formula and has "full responsibility and jurisdiction over who gets the money that was allocated to the state for flood mitigation."

"We believe all areas of the state, including Houston and Harris County, should receive the resources they need to recover from Hurricane Harvey," Burns said, adding that HUD would have to give final approval for the allocations announced by GLO.

But Brittany Eck, a spokesperson for the Texas General Land Office, said the offices hands were tied, because it had to score on a matrix under guidelines from HUD. The office couldnt show favoritism to any community, she said. Additionally, the office supported Harris Countys initial request to HUD to receive direct funding  which HUD denied.

Bushs statement went further to say GLO waited on HUD to publish rules for two years after Harvey hit and that the GLO included scoring criteria required by HUD.
CANBERRA, Australia (AP)  Australias second-largest city was set to enter its fourth lockdown Thursday as concern grew over the rapid spread of infections from a coronavirus variant.

The seven-day lockdown for Melbourne and the rest of Victoria state comes after a new cluster in the city rose to 26 infections, including a person who was in intensive care. Another 10,000 people have had some degree of contact with those already infected.

Unless something changes, this will be increasingly uncontrollable, Victoria Acting Premier James Merlino said.

The federal government declared Melbourne a hot spot, which entitles the city to additional federal resources. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said 218 military personnel were in Victoria helping in pandemic operations and more would be sent if Merlino asked.

Additional vaccine doses were also being sent to Victoria. Only 3.9 million vaccines doses have been administered among Australias population of 26 million.

Health Minister Greg Hunt described the lockdown, which begins at midnight, as highly regrettable, but necessary restrictions under the current circumstances.
What attracts these poor souls to enter the country illegally? Many are fleeing oppressive governments in their native countries, but for most it is employment. Theres always been plenty of hard work for immigrants in cities, on farms and in building Americas infrastructure.

Undocumented immigrants work hard, pay their taxes, abide our laws and stay hidden in the shadows. Its exasperating, but we need to focus on how we can address the conflict between the need to control who is in this country and our need for additional workers. We gain so much by their presence.

Former President George W. Bush touches on this challenge recently in The Washington Post. After articulating his support for common-sense immigration restrictions, he closed with the following wisdom:

We should never forget that the desire to live in the United States  a worldwide and as powerful an aspiration as ever  is an affirmation of our country and what we stand for. Over the years, our instincts have always tended toward fairness and generosity. The reward has been generations of grateful, hard-working, self-reliant, patriotic Americans who came here by choice.
China to relax foreign investment rules amid further opening up

Xinhua) 08:21, May 27, 2021

Aerial photo taken on April 19, 2017 shows the pilot free trade zone in Wuhan City, capital of central China's Hubei Province. (Xinhua/Xiong Qi)

BEIJING, May 26 (Xinhua) -- China will relax rules for foreign investment, increasing its market appeal to global investors and signaling its determination to deepen opening up.

The country's Ministry of Commerce (MOC) has made public its plan for formulating regulations and laws in 2021, putting on agenda the revision of the guideline on foreign strategic investment in Chinese listed firms.

The revision seeks to "ease restrictions on foreign strategic investment, and introduce innovative supervision approaches for the sector," the MOC said in a recent online statement.

The move came as the guideline, which was issued 15 years ago, cannot satisfy the current demand of foreign investment attraction given the country's rapid development over the years.

Wang Jian, a professor at the University of International Business and Economics, said the revision was a signal to the world, indicating that China will continue its reform and opening-up policy, gradually loosen restrictions on foreign investment in listed firms, and foster a more enabling investment environment.

As the market is waiting for the upgraded guideline, a draft revision unveiled last June offered a glimpse of the upcoming rules.

The June draft lowered asset requirements for investments. It stipulated that foreign investors should either own at least 50 million U.S. dollars or manage no less than 300 million dollars of assets for market entry, compared with the current thresholds set at 100 million dollars and 500 million dollars, respectively.

It also reduced the lock-up period for foreign shareholders' stocks from three years to 12 months and removed shareholding limits of foreign strategic investment through listed firms' targeted placements.

Commenting on the lowered bar for foreign investment, Wang said it meant that apart from productive investment, China also welcomes foreign strategic investment in listed firms with open arms.

"The changes showed that China is gradually opening its equity market to the world, which is also conducive to the sound and healthy development of its stock market," Wang noted.

Opening up has been frequently brought up by China's policymakers over the years of its rapid economic growth. Despite a virus-induced economic slowdown across the world, the country's opening-up momentum remains unabated.

China has taken several major steps to open its door wider since last year: implementing the Foreign Investment Law, trimming the negative list for foreign investment and easing foreign access to the financial market.

In the country's new development blueprint, the 14th Five-Year Plan, it reiterates the commitment to promoting reform and opening up while pursuing high-quality development.

With a 4-percent growth in foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows last year, China stood out as the largest recipient of FDI in the world, according to a report from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development.

In the first four months of 2021, FDI into the Chinese mainland, in actual use, surged by 38.6 percent year on year, MOC data showed.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
Beyond the way it undermines the rule of law, there are serious further limitations to the legal logic of the Texas approach.

Even though the Texas law isnt enforceable by state prosecutors, it would have to be applied by the states courts. And state judges are also state actors. It follows that federal courts should be able to order state courts not to apply the unconstitutional law  even before someone brings a lawsuit.

This reasoning is supported by a landmark civil rights case, Shelley v. Kraemer, in which the Supreme Court held that state courts could not enforce a racially restrictive covenant that prohibited property in a housing development from being sold to Black people. The justices said that state courts counted as state actors because they would be enforcing the law.

True, the tradition is to sue state prosecutors, not judges, to block enforcement. But thats because the Texas subterfuge hasnt really been tried before.

Imagine if the Texas law granted civil damages against anyone who ran a racially integrated lunch counter, in gross violation of the 14th Amendment guarantee of equal protection of the laws. The federal courts would surely be able to bar the state courts from applying the unconstitutional law. The anti-abortion law is no different.
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The Uyghur community located in China and Pakistan has been the subject of an ongoing espionage campaign aiming to trick the targets into downloading a Windows backdoor to amass sensitive information from their systems.

"Considerable effort was put into disguising the payloads, whether by creating delivery documents that appear to be originating from the United Nations using up to date related themes, or by setting up websites for non-existing organizations claiming to fund charity groups," according to joint research published by Check Point Research and Kaspersky today.

The Uyghurs are a Turkic ethnic minority group originating from Central and East Asia and are recognized as native to the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in Northwest China. At least since 2015, government authorities have placed the region under tight surveillance, putting hundreds of thousands into prisons and internment camps that the government calls "Vocational Education and Training Centers."

Over the years, the community has also been at the receiving end of a series of sustained cyberattacks that have leveraged exploit chains and watering holes to install spyware designed to harvest and exfiltrate sensitive data from email and messaging apps as well as plunder photos and login credentials.

Earlier this March, Facebook disclosed that it disrupted a network of bad actors using its platform to target the Uyghur community and lure them into downloading malicious software that would allow surveillance of their devices, attributing the "persistent operation" to a China-based threat actor known as Evil Eye.

The latest cyber offensive follows a similar modus operandi in that the attacks involve sending UN-themed decoy documents ("UgyhurApplicationList.docx") to the targets under the pretext of discussing human rights violations. The goal of the phishing message is to lure the recipients into installing a backdoor on the Windows machines.

In an alternative infection vector observed by the researchers, a fake human rights foundation called the "Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation" ("tcahf[.]org")  with its content copied from George Soros-founded Open Society Foundations  was used as a bait to download a .NET backdoor that purports to be a security scanner, only to connect to a remote server and transmit the gathered data, which includes system metadata and a list of installed apps and running processes.

"The malicious functionality of the TCAHF website is well disguised and only appears when the victim attempts to apply for a grant," the researchers said. "The website then claims it must make sure the operating system is safe before entering sensitive information for the transaction, and therefore asks the victims to download a program to scan their environments."

At least two different versions of the Windows implants have been detected to date, one called "WebAssistant" that was available for download from the rogue website in May 2020 and a second variant dubbed "TcahfUpdate" that was available in October 2020.

The two cybersecurity firms did not attribute the attacks to a known threat group but pinned the intrusions on a Chinese-speaking adversary with low to medium confidence based on overlaps in the VBA code embedded in the Word document. Only a handful of victims in China and Pakistan have been identified so far, based on telemetry data compiled during the analysis.

Unsurprisingly, the attackers behind the campaign continue to remain active and evolve its infrastructure, with the group registering two new domains in 2021, both of which redirect to the website of a Malaysian government body called the "Terengganu Islamic Foundation," suggesting the threat actor may have set its sights on targets in Malaysia and Turkey.

"We believe that these cyber-attacks are motivated by espionage, with the end-game of the operation being the installation of a backdoor into the computers of high-profile targets in the Uyghur community," said Lotem Finkelsteen, Check Point's head of threat intelligence. "The attacks are designed to fingerprint infected devices ... [and] from what we can tell, these attacks are ongoing, and new infrastructure is being created for what looks like future attacks."
The theater has done those shows to stay in the publics eye as much as possible, said Hulinsky, who is vice president of GILTs board of directors.

If you kind of go away for awhile, people forget that youre there, he said. We exist for the community, to entertain the community.

GILT knows that people might still not be comfortable sitting in a theater or auditioning for a show. The variety show was put together in as safe a manner as possible, Hulinsky said.

Although the online performance is free, viewers will be invited to make a donation.

Those donations are appreciated just to keep us running, he said.

Hulinsky, who hosts the variety effort, points out in the show that community theater provides a valuable outlet.

The performance bug sometimes bites people at a young age.

I was a wee third grader when I started getting involved in the theater. Ive been involved with GILT since 1993, he says. But after high school and college, some people dont have an outlet to share their talents and that urge to perform, and show how much youve grown as an artist.
Capitol Avenue is set to be widened, Highway 2 to Cairo will be resurfaced, and Five Points intersection is getting a roundabout.

These are only a few of the federally-funded road safety improvement projects coming to Grand Island during the next five years.

The Grand Island Area Metropolitan Planning Organization has approved its transportation improvement program plan for the 2022-to-2026 period.

The plan was approved by the GIAMPO technical advisory committee in April.

A 30-day public comment period was held from April 13 to May 13.

The final draft of the TIP plan was approved by the GIAMPO policy board Tuesday.

The city is required to update the document annually, said Andres Gomez, GIAMPO program manager.

In a document, we include the cost by funding source and fiscal year, Gomez said. We have to demonstrate that these projects are sufficiently funded. And we have to make sure we have a resolution documenting that the board did approve this document, which I submit to the state (Department of Transportation).

All of the projects use federal funds and must be fiscally constrained.
MIAMI (AP)  Attorney and Harvard law professor Alan Dershowitz is suing Netflix for $80 million over his portrayal in the streaming service's Filthy Rich series about sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The lawsuit, filed Wednesday in Miami federal court, contends that Netflix intentionally misled Dershowitz, one of the lawyers once representing Epstein, regarding his appearance in the series. The suit also claims Netflix defamed him by falsely asserting that he had sex with one of Epstein's many victims.

Dershowitz, now mainly retired in Miami Beach, says in the lawsuit that accusations by Virginia Giuffre that they had sex are false and that Netflix knew it. Giuffre has been one of Epstein's most vocal victims.

Dershowitz was one of the lawyers who negotiated a deal allowing the wealthy financier to escape a federal indictment in return for a guilty plea to state prostitution charges in Florida in connection to the dozens of teenage girls authorities say he molested over the years.

But Dershowitz has always denied Giuffre's claims they had sex.
Born to German immigrant parents in Syracuse, New York, Carle and his family returned to Germany  Nazi Germany, at the time - when he was 6. Under the Nazis, modern, expressionistic and abstract art was banned and only realistic and naturalistic art was permitted.

When Carle was 12 or 13, a high school art teacher would change his life by inviting him to his home, where he secretly showed his expressionist art, including Franz Marcs Blue Horse.

I was used to pretty paintings with a mountain in the background. Although I was shocked, I always carried that day in my heart, Carle told NPR in 2011. As an illustrator, he said he chose to portray animals in unconventional colors to show his young readers that in art, there is no wrong color. He thanked Marc in the pages of The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse.

His signature illustration technique was done by piecing pictures together chiefly from tissue paper that he had painted with various colors and textures. It sounds corny, but I think I connect with the child in me, and I think others do, too, he told The Associated Press in 2003.
KEARNEY  To highlight the importance of renewable fuels, Cooperative Producers Inc. Premier Stop in Kearney hit the gas on ethanol-blended fuels by offering customers discounts recently on E10, E15 and E85.

For the event, Kearney Premier Stop partnered with the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, the Nebraska Corn Board, the Nebraska Ethanol Board and Renewable Fuels Nebraska. More than 300 drivers participated.

We are really drawing attention to the renewable fuels industry that we have here in Nebraska, whether thats ethanol or biodiesel, said Kurtis Harms, the Nebraska Corn Board director of Communications. As part of Renewable Fuels Month, we all travel to different gas stations throughout the state. Well partner with those stations that are offering higher blends of ethanol because ethanol is very important to our corn farmers.

Since 2006, one month has been dedicated to recognizing the benefits of renewable biofuels by the Nebraska governor. Throughout May, promotional events are held at stations like Kearney Premier Stop, during which customers could save 30 cents off of E15, 30 cents off of E30 and 85 cents off of E85.

Drivers were greeted at each pump and shown the ethanol blends that were compatible with their vehicles model year.
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A painfully awkward sexual encounter. An impromptu road trip. A tested friendship. No, the outlines of Natalie Morales' Plan B" aren't revolutionary. This is the tried and true framework of the high-school comedy. But teen comedies, almost as a rule, are made by their leads. And with Kuhoo Verma and Victoria Moroles, Plan B is overwhelmingly a winner.

Morales' film seems destined to be compared to Olivia Wilde's Booksmart," which arrived in theaters almost exactly two years ago. Both are helmed with a veteran filmmaker's sense of timing by actors-turned-first-time-directors. (Morales has been a familiar face in film and TV for the past 15 years.) Both feature a pair of breakthrough performances. And both bring a funny, feminist spin to a traditionally boyish and often boorish movie genre.

But it surprised me watching Plan B just how much it's its own thing. It has a comic rhythm and perspective of its own. And while most teen comedies have gone for packed movie theaters, Plan B"  more scruffily indie, more all-the-way R-rated  is only streaming. (It debuts Friday on Hulu.) So it's fitting that the characters of Plan B offer us a new phrase in the streaming lexicon that can sit alongside Netflix and chill: Disney-plus and thrust.
Greg Berner buys a lot of wood.

As the owner of Du Quoin-based Pro Deck Builders, each new job brings with it a bulk order for lumber. But lately, Berner has been concerned over the price of materials and anxiety over available supply.

According to the National Association of Home Builders, lumber prices have gone up 300% in the last year, fueled by increased demand during the COVID-19 pandemic and growing production, labor and transportation costs.

Those same increases are playing out in Southern Illinois  and causing many to rethink projects using wood.

Im seeing prices of treated lumber at double what it was just 18 months ago, Berner said. While the supply looks to be stable right now, as the weather gets nice, theyll be ramping up construction in the northern states and that will tighten up the supply.

For Berner, the increasing cost of materials has forced him to change the way he approaches new jobs. Traditionally, he would have lumber delivered to a clients home just a few days before he would start on a deck project.

Now Im getting lumber dropped off on job sites three or four weeks early, just to make sure it is there when we are ready to build and to lock in the price, he said.
This exciting agreement with SCC provides a smoother pathway for students who start at the community college to complete their bachelors degrees, SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane said. This pathway helps students transfer with confidence, knowing that their credit hours from Shawnee will be accepted at SIU and their college education will be affordable."

If they know where they want to go and what their major is, it is sometimes beneficial for them to go to SIU even though it could be more affordable for them to stay here, he said just prior to signing the agreement. This agreement helps us, helps SIU and it helps the students most importantly achieve what they want to do because it allows them to transfer what theyve earned back from the university to Shawnee and they can get that associate degree.
CHICAGO  Tim Mapes, the former chief of staff to Speaker Michael Madigan, was indicted Wednesday on charges of lying to a federal grand jury investigating allegations of bribery by Commonwealth Edison.

Mapes, who was ousted by Madigan three years ago amid a sexual harassment scandal, was charged with one count each of perjury and obstruction of justice. An arraignment date had not yet been set.

The charges allege Mapes repeatedly lied to the grand jury during an appearance on March 31 when asked about Madigans relationship with his longtime confidante Michael McClain, who has been charged with orchestrating the bribery scheme on behalf of ComEd to win Madigans assistance with state legislation.

Mapes lied to the panel even though hed been granted immunity from prosecution by the U.S. Attorneys Office and was told by the Chief U.S. District Judge Rebecca Pallmeyer that he must testify truthfully or possibly face criminal charges for perjury, according to the indictment.
CHICAGO  A man whose DNA linked him to the brutal 1992 slaying of a 6-year-old boy  and exonerated another man who was in prison for the killing  pleaded guilty to attempted murder Tuesday, Cook County court records show.

Osborne Wade, 47, was sentenced to 50 years in prison. With expected credit for good behavior and time already served, he could be released in about two decades. Judge Peggy Chiampas ordered the Illinois Department of Corrections to provide him with medical and mental health treatment behind bars.

Prosecutors framing of the evidence when Wade was charged in 2016 seemed cut-and-dried: They had his DNA on the boys clothes, he confessed to the slaying to police and wrote letters of apology to the boys family.

A spokeswoman for the Cook County states attorneys office did not give details about why the charge was modified to the lesser offense, stating only that they concluded that based on the evidence and the law, it was appropriate to resolve this case with a plea agreement and agreed prison sentence.
SPRINGFIELD  The Illinois House passed a proposed constitutional amendment Wednesday that would guarantee workers in the state the right to unionize.

The proposed amendment, which passed the Senate last week, would provide that employees have a fundamental right to organize and engage in collective bargaining over wages, hours and working conditions. It would also prohibit the state or any local government from enacting so-called right-to-work laws, which prohibit contracts that make union membership a condition of employment.

Rep. Marcus Evans, D-Chicago, the lead sponsor of the measure in the House, framed the vote as a choice between standing up for the rights of workers or the interests of business.

Where do you stand when you look that working mother in your community in the eye, and do you want her to have collective bargaining, he said. Do you want her to have representation, or do you want to follow many other states as they continue a concerted effort to take away the rights of working men and women? Youve got to make a decision.

House Republicans had been given little advance notice that the measure would come up for a vote on Wednesday, and as soon as it came up on the floor, they requested a one-hour recess so their caucus could meet and discuss their strategy.
SPRINGFIELD  The Illinois House passed a proposed constitutional amendment Wednesday that would guarantee workers in the state the right to unionize.

The proposed amendment, which passed the Senate last week, would provide that employees have a fundamental right to organize and engage in collective bargaining over wages, hours and working conditions. It would also prohibit the state or any local government from enacting so-called right-to-work laws, which prohibit contracts that make union membership a condition of employment.

Rep. Marcus Evans, D-Chicago, the lead sponsor of the measure in the House, framed the vote as a choice between standing up for the rights of workers or the interests of business.

Where do you stand when you look that working mother in your community in the eye, and do you want her to have collective bargaining, he said. Do you want her to have representation, or do you want to follow many other states as they continue a concerted effort to take away the rights of working men and women? Youve got to make a decision.

House Republicans had been given little advance notice that the measure would come up for a vote on Wednesday, and as soon as it came up on the floor, they requested a one-hour recess so their caucus could meet and discuss their strategy.
State Rep. Marcus Evans of Chicago, a member of Democratic leadership, hailed the proposal as a response to other states that have sought to diminish unionization through right-to-work laws.

Workers rights will be prioritized and not just in this General Assembly, but we will bake it (in) and we will make it permanent in the Constitution of the state of Illinois for our children for generations to come, Evans said.

But pro-business Republicans contended the proposal was a Democratic sop to union allies and a special interest boondoggle that would hurt job creation.

State Rep. Blaine Wilhour, a Republican from Beecher City, said Illinois could develop a strong economy with real long term viability that has respect, respect for the balance of power between labor and job creators, and an environment that (attracts) investments.

Right now, that dynamic is way out of balance. This permanent power grab pushes that balance off the cliff forever, Wilhour said. This legislation is unnecessary. It gives job creators more reasons to not invest in job creation in Illinois.
Mapes testified before the grand jury on March 31, according to the indictment. Prosecutors wanted to question Mapes about dealings between Madigan and a consultant. Asked multiple times about the consultant acting on Madigan's behalf or carrying out work for the Chicago Democrat, Mapes denied knowledge of such a relationship.

In one exchange, Mapes was asked if he had reason to think the consultant was acting as an agent for Madigan, by doing work for him or carrying out assignments for him.

"I'm not aware of any," Mapes replied, according to the indictment. "I'm not aware of that activity. Let's put it that way."

The indictment states Mapes made the statements even though he knew the consultant did work for Madigan and communicated messages on Madigan's behalf. It says Mapes himself sometimes acted an an intermediary between Madigan and the consultant.

Madigan was the longest-serving legislative leader in U.S. history before he resigned his seat in February amid the corruption probe. He served in the Illinois House for 50 years and was first elected speaker in 1983. He held the position for all but two years of his remaining time in office. He also served as chairman of the Democratic Party of Illinois, a post he also resigned in February.
That appeared to be the case in the map dropped by Democrats late last week.

In Turner's case, this means dropping much of the Macoupin, Madison and Montgomery counties, ancestrally-Democratic counties that have shifted significantly towards Republicans in recent years, and adding much of Springfield's west side and suburban areas, which have become more friendly towards Democrats in recent years.

Turner, who would have been a heavy underdog to win in her current district, would be remapped into would likely be a tossup.

"You used to get Democratic reps out of the areas that are south of Springfield, and they were in areas that had coal mining, and more of what used to be 'downstate Democrats,' which is kind of going the way of the woolly mammoth," said Kent Redfield, a retired professor of political science at the University of Illinois Springfield.
Last week, a group of Capitol Police officers sent an anonymous letter to news media complaining that some of us have downplayed the events of Jan. 6. Youd think officers were beaten with pipes and bats. Youd think they were sprayed with bear spray. Youd think 140 of them were injured, that one lost the tip of a finger, some sustained brain injuries, one lost an eye.

Youd think we didnt really believe that Blue Lives Matter.

Dont be fooled by what you think you heard, saw and remember. Dont be fooled by what you think you know.

Life becomes much simpler once you learn to only hear, see and remember the things you choose, the things that dont challenge you, that help you put the world into tidy little boxes. The truth is what you need it to be, and the truth here is that a bunch of patriots had a swell time touring the Capitol. You didnt see anything else because there was nothing else to see. And if you think you did, you didnt.

That's why we should stop all this talk about an investigation, OK? Lets move on. Not that were scared.

Do we seem scared to you?

Leonard Pitts is a columnist for The Miami Herald. His columns include his own opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinion or editorial position of The Southern. Readers may contact him via email at lpitts@miamiherald.com.

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Sutherland was originally booked on charges of third-degree assault and battery, a misdemeanor. His parents had placed him at Palmetto Behavioral Health, a mental health and substance abuse center, for treatment of his schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Officials said they were called to investigate a fight at the center and arrested Sutherland as a result.

Mark Peper, the family's attorney, has previously said that Sutherland's illness was so severe he should never have been held in a nonmedical portion of the jail.

Justice for Jamal will come in many forms, the family said in a statement Wednesday. We are pleased to have negotiated a settlement with the government entities that provides the type of civil justice he deserves, but our work is not yet done.

County councilmembers said Tuesday that they are looking into crafting jail and public safety reforms.

I did promise the family were going to look at new reforms, Pryor said. I think thats all theyre asking for, is to be included and to have some type of reform, because this should never happen to anyone ever again. Ever.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)  A powerful group of South Carolina House and Senate leaders met Wednesday, pledging to take differences in each chamber's proposal to overhaul state-owned utility Santee Cooper to their members before getting together again next week to vote on a compromise.

But the biggest difference  whether to create a committee of lawmakers to continue to accept bids to sell Santee Cooper to a private firm  appears to be off the table for the senators on the conference committee.

Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Luke Rankin sounded like he was ready to adjourn after less than an hour of talking about mostly technical differences between the proposals when House Ways and Means Chairman Murrell Smith asked if they were going to take up the House proposal to keep taking sale offers even after NextEra Energy of Florida withdrew its bid.

Are we going to be able to talk you into going with that provision? said Smith, a Republican from Sumter. Are we going to further have discussions on that at some point?

Rankin smiled on Zoom and Smith chuckled sitting in a chair in a Senate committee room. The Senate roundly rejected the sale committee in its version.
It appears the compromise on immunity may come in the form of allowing civil suits to be brought against departments.

How do we change the culture of policing? Scott said on Face the Nation. I think we do that by making the employer responsible for the actions of the employee. We do that with doctors. We do that with lawyers. We do that in most all of our industries. If we do that in law enforcement, the employer will change the culture. As opposed to having one officer change or not change, well have all officers transforming because the departments are taking on more of that burden.

The concept of reforming qualified immunity in such a fashion is not new. South Carolina's other U.S. senator, Lindsey Graham, has also been advocating such a change. Whether in the end such a compromise can satisfy those on the right wanting no reform on immunity and those on the left contending it must go altogether remains to be seen.

But we are hopeful in a time when Americans need law enforcement as much as ever -- and need confidence in the people wearing the badges and protecting us.

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Job Title: Officer Stores

Organization: Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA)

Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda

Ref. No: DSC 15/70/01 Vol.2

About US:

Kampala Capital City Authority is the legal entity, established by the Ugandan Parliament that is responsible for the operations of the capital city of Kampala in Uganda. It replaced the Kampala City Council.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

Receiving and verifying stock items from suppliers in line with the Stores and KCCA financial guidelines.

Issuing items received to Directorates and Sections in line with stores guidelines.

Maintaining an updated record of receipts and issues (items taken out) in line with Stores guidelines and the approved indexing format.

Carrying out periodic stock counts and reconciling actual balance with stock card balance in line with stores guidelines

Monitoring and maintaining the stock levels, raising procurement requisitions for all stocks that reach re-order levels.

Any other duties that may be assigned from time to time.









Qualifications, Skills and Experience:

Applicants should be Ugandans holding an Honours Bachelors Degree either in Accounting, or Commerce, or Finance, or Procurement, or Stores Management, any other related field from a recognized University/Institution. Possession of any level of professional qualification will be an added advantage.

Applicants should have a minimum of two (2) years working experience in stores management at Assistant Officer or Officer level in Government or from a reputable organization.

Age: 25 years and above

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In a statement Wednesday, Gov. Mark Gordons office said the two states would file a legal response to the governments brief.

I am most disappointed with the position of the US Solicitor General, Gordon said in a statement. The core issue of reaffirming a states constitutionally protected access to markets remains unresolved and I urge the Supreme Court to continue with the case. One state should not weaponize a water quality statute inappropriately to deny other states the ability to conduct interstate commerce. We will respond to the Solicitor Generals brief to stress the critical importance of the commerce clause, particularly to inland states.

The decision was not entirely unexpected. The Supreme Court in October invited the acting solicitor general  who at that point had been appointed by the Trump administration  to provide an opinion on the suit. The official did not do so before leaving office at the end of Trumps term.

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The Biden administrations aims of transitioning the country to clean energy, meanwhile, indicated to some that the new solicitor general would not side with Wyoming and Montana.
Buffalo, WY (82834)

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A few clouds early, otherwise mostly sunny. High 87F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph..

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Chad Daybell is charged with three counts each of first-degree murder and conspiring to commit murder and grand theft by deception, as well as two additional counts of insurance fraud in connection with the life insurance policies on his late wife.

Lori Daybell is charged with three counts of conspiring to commit murder and grand theft by deception, as well as two counts of murder in connection with the deaths of her children. Lori Daybell is also charged with two counts of grand theft because prosecutors say she collected her childrens Social Security survivor benefits after they died.

Prosecutors have about two months to decide if they will seek the death penalty in the case.

The Daybells have already been in jail for several months, charged earlier with conspiring to destroy evidence. They have pleaded not guilty to the earlier charges and have not yet had a chance to enter a plea in the new murder case.

The complex case began in 2018, according to the indictment on murder charges, when Chad and Lori Daybell  both still married to other people  began espousing their apocalyptic system of religious belief.
Definitions

Probable cases are defined by officials as patients who had positive antigen tests or are close contacts of lab-confirmed cases with COVID-19 symptoms.

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

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

Confirmed active cases are determined by subtracting the number of deaths and confirmed recoveries from the number of confirmed cases. Total active cases are determined by subtracting the number of deaths and total recoveries from the number of total cases.






A West Yellowstone, Montana, smokejumper was critically injured on Tuesday following a hard landing while responding to the Eicks fire in New Mexicos Hidalgo County.

Tim Hart, of Cody, was flown via air ambulance to a hospital in El Paso after parachuting into rocky terrain, according to the Custer Gallatin National Forest. He is a three-year veteran of the Montana-based crew.

The Forest Services first priority is to provide for him and his family right now, said Marna Daley, forest spokeswoman. We are working with the smokejumper and firefighter community to make sure those needs are being met.

The fire is burning on private land in the Animas Mountains of southeastern New Mexico, just north of the Mexico border. The fire was reported to be burning in grass and brush on Monday and has grown to 720 acres in rugged terrain along the Continental Divide. No structures are currently threatened. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The West Yellowstone crew is a national resource, meaning it responds to fires burning across the nation. Other personnel responding to the fire include New Mexico Forest Division and Bureau of Land Management ground crews aided by aircraft.
As a consequence, the Court delivered decisions that withdrew various subjects from the orbit of the national government and identified them as within the province of state authority. For example, in 1918, in Hammer v. Dagenhart, the Court prohibited Congress from enacting a law prohibiting the transportation in inter-state commerce of goods produced by child labor, on the theory that the state police power governed local manufacturing.

But the pendulum began to swing back toward the Marshall Courts view and held that powers reserved to states could not be invoked to curtail federal authority. In 1941, in U.S. v. Darby, the Court declared: The amendment states but a truism that all is retained which has not been surrendered. There is nothing in its adoption to suggest that it was more than declaratory of the relationship between the national and state governments as it had been established by the Constitution before the Amendment.
Over the last generation, the political industry has carefully sorted us by tribe, creating a historic shift in how we view ourselves and in the process grinding government to a halt. In 1980, only about 12% of U.S. counties voted overwhelmingly for one candidate (20 points or more). Today our neighborhoods are sorted so strongly along party lines that landslide counties have risen to a majority  55%. Today we more strongly associate with our political party than our religion. Which is just how they want it.

Government cannot solve all our ills, but it does serve a role. And over the last half century it has been increasingly absent from the scene, unable to accomplish anything other than to perfect and refine a duopoly that fuels the parties interests while failing to fulfill their mission.

Which is why the party apparatus would like Wyoming to base its next vote on party purity instead of issues such as Medicaid expansion, how to balance our state budget or what specifically we need to do to expand our economic base.

As voters, it is our job to pay attention and support candidates who want to create good policy (regardless of who first thought of it) instead of those using division as the tool for winning elections.

I dont know how I will vote in 2022, but when I decide it will be based on what is best for Wyoming towns like Gillette, Rawlins and Glenrock  not Mar-a-Lago, Florida.

David Dodson is a resident of Wyoming and an entrepreneur who has helped create over 20,000 private sector jobs. In 2018 he was a candidate in the Republican Primary for Wyomings US Senate. He is on the faculty of the Stanford Graduate School of Business where he teaches courses on small business and entrepreneurship. He is a frequent guest on Fox Business and CNBC.

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Spare a thought and/or prayer for frontline workers.

So croons Chris Garcia over emotional keys and heart-tugging strings on his new release Hear Their Prayer.

An ode to medical and protective personnel, Garcias tune calls for national appreciation and support for those risking their lives during this countrys deadliest surge in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Moved by the sight of senior citizens waiting in long lines outside vaccination centres across the country, businessman Shane Mahabirsingh yesterday took it upon himself to provide comfort for them.

Mahabirsingh, owner of Bilda Boyz Construction in Gasparillo, visited three health centres in the South-West Regional Health Authority (SWRHA) distributing chairs, water and sanitising the elderly men and women standing in line.
It is not often that well-resourced and politically powerful companies such as ExxonMobil and Shell suffer historic defeats. However, last month, in different ways, both oil majors saw activist shareholders and environmentalists cause them and the international energy sector to have to think hard about what the future holds for hydrocarbons.
THE Government expects to spend $107 million on Covid-19 vaccines to allow vaccination of 85 per cent of the population, or about 1.2 million people.

So said Minister of Finance Colm Imbert yesterday, at the Red House, Port of Spain.
PHOENIX  Has your signature changed over the years? Is it different when youre not feeling well? Variations to your signature on a ballot could result in a call from investigators and possibly a criminal probe, under proposed legislation.

But while that measure awaits a final roll-call vote, lawmakers on Wednesday defeated a more far-reaching proposal that would have required Arizonans to provide more information to get their early votes counted.

Heres the latest on both:

Signed ballots

The bill on signatures, being pushed by Rep. John Kavanagh, R-Fountain Hills, would alter state laws on early ballots.

Those statutes now say that when a ballot comes in by mail, election workers compare the signature on the envelope with what they have on file, whether from prior elections or other records. If they appear to match, thats the end of it and the ballot is tallied.

If they dont match, election workers attempt to contact voters to find out if they actually cast the ballot and any reasons why the signature has changed, with the most common reasons including age or illness. An affirmative response from the voter cures the ballot and ends the process. Otherwise the ballot is not counted.
But they have no control over that, with any increases subject to voter approval. And Arizonans have not seen fit to raise that since 1998.

They also get a mileage allowance.

Otondo said, however, that still leaves many legislators in the financial hole.

She said she is one of the lucky ones. "I come from an agricultural family,'' she said. "I have other forms of income. Many don't.''

That, she said, is bad public policy. "If we want to reserve our seats in the people's House and the people's Senate only for the privileged, then I guess we can just continue to allow such a low per diem.''

Gowan acknowledged that anyone running for office is aware of the situation, both the time required at the Capitol and the compensation.

"But I do have to hold down two households in the meantime while I am here in the five- to six-month period of time while we are up here,'' he said.

No one spoke against it.

Gowan did make one other change to the final version of the bill.
Officials identified the driver who was shot and killed on Monday after leading law enforcement officers on a pursuit in Nogales.

The driver was Glen Ray Cockrum, 39, said the Arizona Department of Public Safety, which said it is conducting a criminal investigation of actions by Cockrum that led to the chase around 1 p.m. Monday on Interstate 19. DPS officials said they do not know where Cockrum lived.

After the pursuit, Cockrum was shot and killed by officers with the Nogales Police Department and deputies with the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office, authorities said.

DPS officials said the investigation is still in a preliminary phase. They did not disclose why law enforcement officers started pursuing Cockrum or the rationale for opening fire on Cockrum in a crowded Walmart parking lot and then on a busy street.

A man of Cockrum's name and age, who had a semi-truck and trailer, was arrested in 2018 in Arkansas on charges of threatening his father and stealing his truck, court records show. Arizona authorities were not available late Wednesday to confirm he was the same man.

The Nogales Police Department did not respond to multiple inquiries from the Arizona Daily Star about Monday's incident.
PHOENIX  The group that won voter approval for Proposition 208 is now gearing up to force a public vote on Gov. Doug Duceys plan to enact the largest tax cut in Arizona history.

Talks are underway to collect signatures to force a referendum on what is now shaping up to be a $1.9 billion permanent cut in state revenues, said David Lujan, director of the Arizona Center for Economic Progress.

He acknowledged there is probably some public support for the package being worked out by Ducey and his fellow Republicans in legislative leadership, as it is designed to ensure that everyone would get some sort of tax break.

But new figures obtained Wednesday from the Legislatures own budget analysts show that the top 1% of Arizona taxpayers would see a break of more than 40% over what they would otherwise have to pay.

By contrast, the other 99%  meaning everyone with taxable income of less than $500,000  would be in line for a 19.7% reduction.

The figures are more pronounced when looking at those who earn $50,000 or less, who make up more than 57% of all Arizona taxpayers.

Their average tax cut would be 4.8%.
CHICAGO (AP)  Family members of a 13-year-old boy who was fatally shot by a Chicago police officer announced plans Wednesday to build a home in rural Wisconsin where at-risk boys could go to escape the dangers of the city streets.

Adam Toledo's mother stood in front of a mural of her son that was recently painted in the Little Village neighborhood where he was killed on March 29. She lamented that while she could not be with her son Wednesday on what would have been his 14th birthday, she might be able to help save others like him.

What I really want is to have Adam back, and we can't do that, Betty Toledo wrote in a speech that was read by someone else because she was too emotional to speak. We can try to help other families protect their sons from the temptations that took Adam into the street that night, the night he was killed.

The family also alluded to the depiction of Adam's life that has been part of the narrative since shortly after his death when Mayor Lori Lightfoot seemed to suggest that the boy was involved with gangs.
NEW YORK (AP)  Prosecutors on Wednesday said they dont plan to use materials from recent raids on Rudy Giulianis home and office at an upcoming trial of two of his associates and another man on charges that they made illegal campaign contributions.

Federal prosecutors urged a judge to reject a request by lawyers in that case to force the government to disclose materials seized from Giuliani, ex-President Donald Trumps former personal lawyer, and others.

They said the warrants used in the raids did not authorize a search for evidence related to a case brought against Lev Parnas, Igor Fruman and Andrey Kukushkin. All three have pleaded not guilty and are free on bail.

The Government will not use any of the materials seized during the Giuliani and related searches in the 2019 case against the trio at their upcoming October trial, prosecutors wrote.

Parnas, Fruman and Kukushkin, a Ukrainian-born U.S. citizen, are charged in a scheme to make illegal campaign donations to local and federal politicians in New York, Nevada and other states to try to win support for a new recreational marijuana business.
In an 89-page decision outlining the reasons for its fine, regulators blasted PG&E for a overwhelmed website that couldn't handle incoming traffic from customers wondering whether they would have power, as well its failure to give adequate advance warning of the blackouts to about 50,000 customers.

Although PG&E is being fined $106 million, the utility won't be paying that much now. That's because it is being credited for $86 million that it had already been ordered to refund to customers affected during the lengthy 2019 outages.

The decision imposing the fine will become effective in 30 days barring an appeal or a request for review.

In a statement, PG&E acknowledged its handling of the 2019 outages fell short of what our customers expect and deserve" while highlighting improvements it has made since then to reduce the scope and duration of blackouts that are expected to periodically occur for at least for at least several more years while PG&E tries to improve its grid.

We will continue to make additional improvements to support our customers, while working to keep them safe," PG&E said.
Austin is weighing the military service leaders' views on this before deciding whether he will support it.

Doubts persist about whether establishing an independent prosecuting authority for sexual assault cases would help reverse a yearslong upward trend in the number of reported sexual assaults in the military.

The acting Army secretary, John E. Whitley, said in an Associated Press interview that the Army is focused more on improving the selection of commanders as a way to change attitudes and improve trust. He said data on the military's prosecution of sexual assault cases indicates that taking it out of the chain of command would not address the crux of the problem.

Part of my concern is were perhaps, were in a very fever pitch debate right now, Whitley said. "And I worry that the data are not perhaps coming through to the extent they should.

But some military leaders in recent weeks have signaled a willingness to consider new approaches to prosecution, given the failures of the current system and in light of growing pressure from Congress.

I'm open to the conversation, the Air Force chief of staff, Gen. Charles Q. Brown, said Tuesday.
GALLOWAY, N.J. (AP)  A New Jersey judge is turning to community mediation to try to resolve the case of a middle school vice principal who threw beer at people who were filming his wife's rant against a transgender woman's use of a public women's restroom.

Galloway Township Municipal Court Judge Howard Freed on Thursday sent the case of Michael Smurro and three people who accuse him of throwing beer at them last month to community mediation as a first step in trying to resolve the case.

If that process fails, the case could return to court. No date was set for the mediation.

Smurro is vice principal of Neptune Middle School in Monmouth County. Video filmed by patrons at an outdoor restaurant April 24 in Galloway shows him tossing a cup of beer at a table of people when he and his wife realized they were being recorded.

In an email to The Associated Press days after the incident, Smurro apologized for his actions, and said he should have just walked away from the situation.

Smurro filed harassment complaints against Debra and Robert Harris, and Elaine Nelson, who filed complaints against him, also alleging harassment.

None of the parties in the case spoke during Thursday's online hearing.
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP)  Louisiana lawmakers Thursday blocked an effort to offer a path to release for an estimated 1,500 prisoners convicted of felonies by juries that were not unanimous, a debate spurred by the U.S. Supreme Court's refusal to make its ban on such convictions retroactive.

Only five lawmakers on the House Judiciary Committee supported the proposal by Rep. Randal Gaines, a Democrat from LaPlace. Seven committee members voted against it. Gaines bill called for people serving a sentence that stems from a non-unanimous jury decision to be allowed to seek new trials.

Criminal justice advocates pushed the measure after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in mid-May that prisoners convicted by non-unanimous juries before the court banned the practice in 2020 didn't need to be retried. That left about 1,500 felons in Louisiana convicted by a 10- or 11-member majority of a jury in prison, many of them serving life sentences without the chance of parole.

Our system has buckled under decades of injustice. Louisiana lawmakers now have the obligation to repair the wounds inflicted by generations of Jim Crow, said Jamila Johnson, a lawyer for the New Orleans-based Promise of Justice Initiative.
Georgia election results were certified months ago, and a new review cannot change the results. After the initial tally and before certification, the state did a full hand recount of the presidential race to satisfy a new audit requirement in state law. Another recount, in which the ballots were run through scanners to be tallied again, was done at the request of former Republican President Donald Trumps campaign after he lost the state by a narrow margin to Democrat Joe Biden.

Garland Favorito, who is known for espousing numerous conspiracy theories, is leading the review effort in Georgia. He says he's seeking the truth.

If all these votes are correct and there are no counterfeit ballots, then we can go home and rest assured that the election was conducted correctly, he said. If there are a lot of counterfeit ballots, then we need to figure out how to prevent that in the future.

Fulton County Commission Chairman Robb Pitts has repeatedly slammed the push for a review.

It is outrageous that Fulton County continues to be a target of those who cannot accept the results from last years election, he said last week after Amero agreed to unseal the ballots. The votes have been counted multiple times, including a hand recount, and no evidence of fraud has been found.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Knudsen's decision was slammed by the American Civil Liberties Union of Montana and the Montana Federation of Public Employees, which represents many government workers in the state, including school teachers and faculty at public universities.

The union's president, Amanda Curtis, accused Knudsen and Arntzen of working together to politicize school curriculum."

ACLU of Montana executive director Caitlin Borgmann accused them of trying to impose an alternate version of American history  one that erases the legacy of discrimination and lived experiences of Black and Brown people.

Our country needs to acknowledge its history of systemic racism and reckon with the present-day impacts of racial discrimination  this includes being able to teach and talk about these concepts in our schools, Borgmann said in a statement.

Knudsen's binding opinion states that certain activities that fall under the umbrella of critical race theory teaching violate the U.S. and state constitutions.

They include grading students differently based on race; forcing people to admit privilege or reflect on their racial identities; assigning fault, blame or bias to a race; and offering training or assignments that force students or employees to support concepts such as racial privilege.
Duluth, MN (55816)

Today

Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High 81F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Mainly clear. Low 59F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph.
NEW YORK (AP)  Shares of Figs Inc., which sells scrubs online to nurses and doctors, soared 36% in their stock market debut Thursday, valuing the 8-year old company at more than $4.8 billion.

Heather Hasson and Trina Spear founded founded the company in 2013, setting out to remake what medical scrubs looked like: from baggy and V-necked to a more fitted silhouette in different styles.

At first, Hasson and Spear sold the scrubs from their cars outside hospitals, trying to catch health care workers as they left their shifts at 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Today, Figs sells its goods online, and offers scrub bottoms that look like joggers and tops that are sleeveless.

The company aims to dress health care workers from head to toe, selling underwear, socks and fleece jackets that go with its scrubs. It has also partnered with New Balance to sell a line of sneakers.

Last year, Fig's revenue more than doubled to $263 million from the year before. Its profit soared to $49.7 million from $112,000 in 2019.

Figs, which is based in Santa Monica, California, raised more than $580 million in its initial public offering, selling nearly 26.4 million shares at $22 apiece. Hasson and Spear are co-CEOs.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP)  A Florida-based group of Romanian nationals stole $740,000 from hundreds of churches by taking donation checks from their mailboxes and cashing them, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement said Wednesday.

Four people were arrested and two others are wanted in what authorities are calling Operation Thou Shalt Not Steal.

The group was based in Orlando but traveled throughout Florida and other states stealing checks, investigators said. In all, authorities identified 636 churches that were victims, including 355 in Florida.

This low-tech yet well-organized effort to steal hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of mailed-in charitable donations  at a time when donations may have been most needed  has been stopped," FDLE Commissioner Rick Swearingen said in a news release.

The group had numerous bank accounts it used to deposit the checks and then used ATMs to withdraw cash as soon as they cleared.

Arrested Wednesday were Ionut Raducan, 33; Marius Dumitru, 27; Marius Dumitru, 34; and Panait Dumitru, 32. Each was charged with conspiracy to commit racketeering, racketeering, grand theft, unlawful possession of personal identification information and money laundering.
The group earlier said the judges ruling will cut U.S. pork packing plant capacity by 2.5% and result in more than $80 million in reduced income for small hog farmers, according to an analysis conducted for the group by Iowa State University agricultural economist Dermot Hayes.

The group said it will pursue all avenues to reverse the court decision.

The Washington-based North American Meat Institute, a trade group for the meat processing industry, said the judges ruling could have significant unintended consequences, including that workers who will now have increased workloads as companies attempt to make up for lost production.

Hayes, in his analysis said some plant managers have told him they may add longer shifts or weekend work to keep up the production pace at slower rates.

The impact on consumer prices for ham, pork chops and bacon isn't immediately clear and will depend on how the industry responds. If the slower speeds cause processors to supply less pork to the market, grocers and restaurants are left competing against each other for a small amount of pork, which would drive up wholesale and retail pork prices, said Jayson Lusk, head of the department of agricultural economics at Purdue University.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
The dusty blacktop road on Tucsons far east side doesnt look like it leads to a British noblemans house.

But the 151-acre ranch near the foothills of the Rincon Mountains belongs to Sir Paul McCartney, whose wife Linda died there in 1998.

McCartneys company still pays taxes on the property; someone obviously maintains the place. But thats the backstory. What we have here is a yarn about a larger-than-life love affair.

This is an honest-to-goodness Camelot-style love story replete with a chivalric royal knight and his queen. This fairy tale spans the world and ends in this house near Redington Pass.

Paul McCartneys connection with Tucson was through his wife, Linda Eastman. She attended the University of Arizona, where she began her prolific photography career. Linda was enamored with the desert beauty and tranquility of life.

The two met in London in 1967 when Linda was on a photo assignment for a book about rock stars. After a two-year courtship, they were married in 1969 in a civil ceremony at a town hall in London.

They soon pushed each other beyond the limits of their combined imagination. Over the 29-year marriage, Paul was the most creative in his musical career, and Linda blossomed as a musician.

Over their 29-year marriage, the couple was apart only one night.

After buying the Tucson ranch in 1979, the McCartney family began to grow. The house became a dominant family home, mainly in the spring and fall  a place to be free and one with nature, away from global prying eyes.

Locals understood and gave them a wide berth. Occasionally mom, dad and the children would venture out and thrill Tucsonans at restaurants and stores.

The McCartneys visited the old Skaggs Drug Store at Speedway and Camino Seco, especially at Halloween and Thanksgiving. During these times, fans would hang out waiting for autographs and a glimpse of the rock star family entourage.

Other locals camped out at the nearby AJ Bayless grocery store, where Paul would kindly sign albums while picking up milk and bread.

In 1995, Linda was diagnosed with breast cancer. The privacy of the ranch allowed her to face treatment and healing in secluded personal privilege.

Just days before Lindas passing, she and Paul rode her much-loved Appaloosa horses, Spot and Blanket, over the ranch and adjoining wilderness area, enjoying the private time together. Paul and Lindas doctors had decided not to tell her how much her cancer had aggressively spread.

In the predawn hours of Friday, April 17, 1998, 56-year-old Linda Eastman McCartney died at the Tucson ranch house. Paul and the family, including their four children, were with her.

A half-moon traversed Tucsons star-filled sky on the evening of her passing, casting a consoling soft glow over their tin roof.

Lindas body was cremated in Tucson and became part of the desert she respected and embraced when the family spread her ashes at the ranch before returning to London.

Tucsonans Greg Ash and Dave Slavin contributed to this story. Freelance writer Jerry Wilkerson, who lives in SaddleBrooke, is a former press secretary for two U.S. Congressmen and was a correspondent for Chicago CBS radio and newspaper correspondent. Wilkerson is a U.S. Navy veteran and served as a police commissioner. Email: franchise@att.net
What people want us to get on with is delivering the (reopening) road map and trying, cautiously, to take our country forward through what has been one of the most difficult periods that I think anybody can remember, he told reporters on Thursday.

Cummings accused Hancock of lying to the public and said he should have been fired for mistakes including testing failures that saw patients with the virus discharged from hospitals to nursing homes. Around 20,000 people died with COVID-19 in British nursing homes in the first months of the outbreak.

Hancock said the unsubstantiated allegations around honesty are not true.

We worked as hard as we could to protect people who live in care homes, he said at a news conference.

But we could only do that once we had the testing capacity," Hancock added, saying "it wasnt possible" to test everyone being discharged from hospitals at the start of the outbreak.

The health spokesman for the opposition Labour Party, Jonathan Ashworth, said the government had questions to answer, whether or not Cummings testimony was true,
OPINION: Gov. Doug Ducey's move for the flat tax is on letter writers minds and the affects it can have on schools. What are your thoughts? Write a letter to the editor at tucson.com/letters.
OPINION: "No, I am not and we are not 'over sensitive.' Anti-Semitism is real, hurtful and malicious. Sometimes it is subtle, sometimes flagrant. It affects more of us than anyone would want to admit," writes Rabbi Emeritus Robert Eisen.
UScellular announced a $30,000 investment in the Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Tulsa to provide educational opportunities and experiences to local youth.

UScellulars investment supports K-12 science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and academic enrichment programs for members at the club. This is part of a $1 million donation the company made to support 20 Boys & Girls Clubs across its service areas.

As Americas locally grown wireless carrier, supporting local educational initiatives like the Boys & Girls Clubs STEM programming is in UScellulars DNA, said Jack Sampson, Tulsa area retail sales manager at UScellular. It is our goal that through new learning opportunities, Metro Tulsa club members will dream big and apply what they learn towards their future careers.

We are thrilled to work with UScellular once again to support STEM education in Tulsa, said Richard White, executive director of The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Tulsa.
Harris and Chaney issued a written statement to the media on Wednesday evening:

At this time, we feel it is best for EYS and Epic to pause our professional relationship and to give each entity a chance to determine how to best serve families moving forward, the statement reads in part. While this is a sad and difficult decision for us, we believe it is in the best interests of EYS and, most importantly, the 50,000 plus students Epic Charter Schools and EYS currently serve.

After Harris and Chaney issued their statement, Campbell issued a rather emphatic clarification to Epics staff, parents and students during Wednesday evenings public meeting.

This is final, this is not a pause in any stretch of the imagination. This isnt like were taking time to think about it and reassess. We are not reassessing anything when it comes to a CMO, especially Epic Youth Services, he said. This relationship is done as long as this board is in place.

This is not a pause of a relationship, and I want to be clear about that.

In a separate vote on Wednesday, Epics governing board severed all ties to Epic subsidiary Community Strategies-CA LLC.
The Oklahoma House of Representatives apparently heard its last few bills of the session Wednesday afternoon, including one that prohibits schools, colleges and universities from requiring COVID-19 vaccinations.

Senate Bill 658, by Sen. Rob Standridge, also makes it more difficult for schools to impose mask mandates and bans them from requiring unvaccinated students to wear masks.

Rep. Kevin West, R-Moore, who carried the bill in the House, and Rep. Jim Olsen, R-Sallisaw, couched the issue in terms of personal freedom and parental rights, while opponents said individuals should not have the freedom to jeopardize the health and safety of those around them.

"Every once in awhile it's about community, about looking out for your neighbor," said Rep. Forrest Bennett, R-Oklahoma City. "I think five, ten, fifteen years from now, we'll look back on this and some of us will think differently about it. I think some will feel a little bit embarrassed."

"The most important issues in this discussion are liberty and parental rights," said Olsen. "Liberties of people are paramount. ... Parents have the right to make these choices for their children."
Every police officer the city employs has a role to play in the events of the next several days, including some who will be among the crowds covertly, he said. The department will also be deploying some new operational techniques, such as cameras to monitor crowd activity, Franklin said, and partnering with a multitude of different agencies.

The department is already receiving daily intelligence briefings from a number of different networks to inform its operations.

Despite the number of officers who will be out in force, Franklin said he hopes none of them have to take action.

They will protect the right of all citizens to peacefully assemble, Franklin said, but they will not allow any groups without a proper permit to impede bridges, overpasses or streets like the city saw last summer in the protests following Minneapolis resident George Floyds death there.

Residents are asked to report suspicious activity or items by calling 911 or the departments nonemergency line, 918-596-9222. Such items could be unattended bags or boxes left near events or any type of large vehicle, like a box truck, in unordinary or highly-trafficked areas.
The prosperity of Tulsas Greenwood District in 1921 violated the caste hierarchy of a racist society and doomed it to the attack of the Tulsa Race Massacre mob, author Isabel Wilkerson said Wednesday.

1921s Greenwood featured Black-owned movie theaters, churches, businesses and sturdy, prosperous homes.

Their prosperity broke a basic tenet of caste, Wilkerson said in her keynote address for the 12th Annual Reconciliation in America National Symposium, presented by the John Hope Franklin Center for Reconciliation.

The pretext of a supposed incident in a downtown elevator was the spark, but the underlying motive was a need for Tulsas white society to reestablish a social order based on race, she said.

Wilkerson put the race massacre in the context of a general history of racial discrimination in America.

Drawing from slavery, racist protests in Charlottesville, Virginia, the killing of George Floyd and the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, Wilkerson described a nation unwilling to deal with the consequences of unaddressed history.

The scenes at the United States Capitol may have looked like another country, but it was ours, Wilkerson said. This is the countrys karmic moment of truth.
CONCORD, N.H. (AP)  A bill aimed at curtailing the governors authority during future pandemics or other emergencies has cleared the state Senate.

Under current law, the governor can declare a state of emergency and renew it every 21 days as long as he or she finds it necessary to protect public safety and welfare, though the Legislature can vote to terminate it.

The bill passed Thursday would change the renewal date to 30 days and would allow the Legislature to terminate not just a state of emergency but any emergency order issued by the governor. It also would require the governor to seek legislative approval to spend any federal or private money exceeding $100,000 related to the emergency unless there is an immediate risk to the public.

This bill is an important effort to ensure balance between oversight during states of emergency and public safety during times of crisis, said Sen. Sharon Carson, R-Londonderry.

The Senate also passed legislation establishing medial freedom in immunizations. It specifies that no one may be forced to receive a COVID-19 vaccine to access any public facility, benefit or service.
The Oklahoma economy has steadily improved since the COVID-19-induced downturn last year.

An important area of growth and recovery is international trade. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement was recently updated to improve trade among these nations.

In the wake of these negotiations, attention has turned to attempts to establish a single-line rail route connecting USMCA countries, spanning the distance from Mexico to Canada.

Earlier this year, Canadian Pacific Railway and Kansas City Southern reached an agreement to merge the two railroads.

If approved by the Surface Transportation Board, the combined rail line will provide a 20,000-mile, single-line route across the largest trade bloc in the world.

Hundreds of shippers across the U.S. have spoken up in favor of the CP-KCS combination. Unlike rail mergers brokered by the notorious tycoons of Americas past, the union of CP and KCS will add competition and rail capacity.

It will drive current and future economic growth in North America by initiating the more efficient use of existing infrastructure and offering more options for shippers.
The U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) has reduced the anti-dumping and anti-subsidy tax rates for car tires exported from Vietnam, according to a decision issued by regulatory authorities after several months of investigation.

The Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade said on Wednesday that the DOC would stick to its previously-announced anti-dumping rate of 22.3 percent.

The anti-subsidy tax rate for Vietnamese tires will be 6.23-7.89 percent.

Businesses subject to the anti-dumping tax are not among major Vietnamese tire exporters, who account for up to 95.5 percent of the country's exports to the U.S.

The anti-subsidy rate has been relatively lessened compared to the preliminary ruling and the lowest among the countries and territories investigated in the same case, according to the trade ministry.

In the process of responding to the DOC investigation, relevant ministries, agencies, and local authorities closely cooperated with each other in discussing with the DOC, ensuring objectivity, positivity, and beneficial results for Vietnamese manufacturing and exporting enterprises, the trade ministry added.

The Vietnamese exporters stepped up comprehensive cooperation with the DOC throughout the investigation process as well.

Both the functional forces and enterprises were able to prove that Vietnam neither sells tires in the U.S. market below the cost of production nor subsidizes tire products.

The Southeast Asian nation does not undervalue its currency to create export advantages either, their proof showed.

The DOC officially launched an anti-subsidy investigation into a number of automobile tire products originating in Vietnam in June last year in response to a petition filed a month earlier.

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A California transit employee killed eight co-workers and wounded another before taking his own life on Wednesday,the latest in a spate of deadly U.S. mass shootings, prompting the states governor to ask: What the hell is wrong with us?

Authorities did not immediately offer many details or a possible motive for the shooting, which unfolded about 6:30 a.m. Pacific Time (1330 GMT) at a light-rail yard for commuter trains of the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA), in the heart of Silicon Valley in the San Francisco Bay Area.

A bomb squad was searching the yard and adjacent buildings after at least one explosive device was found, Santa Clara County Sheriff's Deputy Russell Davis said at a news conference.

Sheriff Laurie Smith told reporters that gunfire was still going on when her first deputies arrived on the scene, and that the assailant took his own life, apparently when he became aware that police were closing in on him.

Valley Transportation Authority workers wait outside the Santa Clara Sheriff's offices as police secure the scene of a mass shooting at a rail yard run by the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority in San Jose, California, U.S. May 26, 2021. Photo: Reuters

Officers never exchanged gunfire with the suspect, Davis said. Still, Smith credited swift action by sheriff's deputies, who rushed to the scene from their own headquarters next door to the rail yard, preventing what might have been a much greater loss of life.

Governor Gavin Newsom, appearing with Smith and others in San Jose, voiced exasperation at the frequency and regularity of gun violence in America.

"There is a sameness to this and that numbness, I think, is something that we are all feeling," Newsom said. "It begs the damn question, What the hell is going on in the United States of America? What the hell is wrong with us and when are we going to come to grips with this?"

The gunman, the eight victims shot dead, and a survivor who was hospitalized in critical condition were all employees of the transit agency situated near the city's airport, officials said. The victims were found in two buildings on the site.

San Jose Bomb Squad technician and his team meet before entering the scene of the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority mass shooting suspects house that was set ablaze in San Jose, California, U.S. May 26, 2021. Photo: Reuters

Authorities did not release the gunman's name or age. The San Jose Mercury News and other media outlets identified him as Samuel Cassidy, 57, a maintenance worker at the yard.

Cassidy had worked for the transit authority since at least 2012, when he was listed as an "electro-mechanic," and was promoted to "substation maintainer" in 2015, according to records posted by the nonprofit website Transportation California.

Last year, he earned a salary of $102,000, plus benefits and $20,000 in overtime, the records showed.

The suspect and another individual filed domestic violence restraining orders against one another in 2009, three years after Cassidy divorced his spouse, according to online court records.

A view of the rail yard run by the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority in San Jose, California, U.S. May 26, 2021. Photo: Reuters

'Essential workers'

"A horrible tragedy has happened today and our thoughts and love go out to the VTA family," Glenn Hendricks, chairman of the VTA board, told reporters.

The shooting took place in a section of the rail yard where workers perform maintenance on vehicles, and was not in the facility's operations and control center, he said. Rail service on the commuter line was suspended after the shooting.

San Jose, a city of about 1 million residents, lies at the heart of Silicon Valley, a global technology hub and home to some of America's biggest high-tech companies.

"These are, and were, essential workers," San Jose's mayor, Sam Liccardo, said of the victims.

He confirmed in television news interviews that authorities had also responded to a fire at the home of the suspect that erupted at about the same time as the shooting.

A view of the rail yard offices run by the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority in San Jose, California, U.S. May 26, 2021. Photo: Reuters

Multiple fire department, police and bomb squad vehicles were still parked outside the suspect's house, along a cul-de-sac in southeastern San Jose, hours after the shooting.

An explosives-detecting robot sat in the street near the home while two bomb squad technicians entered the ranch-style house. Arson investigators along with agents of the FBI and U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were also present.

President Joe Biden was briefed on the shooting, and his staff continued to monitor the situation while keeping in close contact with local officials to offer any assistance needed, the White House said.

"What's clear, as the president has said, is that we are suffering from an epidemic of gun violence in this country, both from mass shootings and in the lives that are being taken in daily gun violence that doesn't make national headlines," White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters.

ATF and FBI agents approach the scene of the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority mass shooting suspect's house, after a fire at the home of the suspect erupted at about the same time as the shooting, in San Jose, California, U.S. May 26, 2021. Photo: Reuters

Mass gun violence, commonplace in a country with one of the highest rates of firearm ownership in the world, has escalated considerably following a year-long lull as the United States emerged from the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic this spring.

Wednesday's incident was the latest of at least nine deadly U.S. mass shootings that have made national headlines in the past three months, starting with a string of attacks at Atlanta-area day spas in mid-March that claimed eight lives, and a rampage days later that killed 10 at a Colorado supermarket.

Last month, a former employee of an Indianapolis FedEx center shot eight workers to death before taking his own life. Earlier this month a man fatally shot his girlfriend and five other people before taking his own life at a birthday party in Colorado.

The United States saw at least 200 mass shootings in the first 132 days of this year, according to a report by the Gun Violence Archive, a non-profit research group that defines such incidents as those in which four or more people, other than the assailant, are shot, regardless of the number killed.
Hundreds of thousands of villagers along the low-lying coast of eastern India and Bangladesh were marooned by floodwaters on Thursday in the aftermath of a powerful cyclone that has killed at least five people, officials in both countries said.

Cyclone Yaas ripped through the eastern Indian state of Odisha on Wednesday packing gusts of up to 140 kph (87 mph) and whipping up tidal surges in neighbouring West Bengal state and Bangladesh even though they were not directly in its path.

Relief workers delivered food and water to people marooned in 124 villages in Odisha, the state's top bureaucrat Suresh Mahapatra said. At least two people had died in the state.

The storm, the second to hit India in a week, comes at a time when the country is battling a deadly second wave of coronavirus infections that has stretched the healthcare system to its breaking point.

Some 500,000 people were sheltered in relief camps in West Bengal and officials said they had taken steps to reduce the risk of a potential spread of the virus.

Residents move to a safer place ahead of Cyclone Yaas at Digha in Purba Medinipur district in the eastern state of West Bengal, India, May 26, 2021. Photo: Reuters

"Flood shelters have quarantine rooms for those showing symptoms of COVID-19 like fever, sore throat, body ache," Dr Indranil Bargi, a medical officer in Gosaba area, told Reuters.

People are being tested for coronavirus using the rapid antigen test and anyone who tests positive would be shifted to safe homes set up in government offices and schools, he said.

Authorities in Bangladesh reported flooding of villages due to heavy rains and tidal surges. Three people were dead, two by drowning and a third who was hit by a tree, an official at the Disaster Management Agency said.

People are evacuated from a flooded area to safer places by the members of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) as Cyclone Yaas makes landfall at Ramnagar in Purba Medinipur district in the eastern state of West Bengal, India, May 26, 2021. Photo: Reuters

"I have never seen a tidal surge rising to this level. It flooded many villages and washed away houses. Many people are marooned," Humayum Kabir, an official in the coastal district of Khulna, said.

Yaas had weakened on Thursday to a deep depression as it drove inland over the Indian state of Jharkhand.

A man wades through a water-logged road after rains ahead of Cyclone Yaas at Digha in Purba Medinipur district in the eastern state of West Bengal, India, May 26, 2021. Photo: Reuters

Elsewhere on the sub-continent, Nepal was bracing for floods in its plains and landslides in the hills as heavy rains have lashed the country since Wednesday and were forecast to last till Saturday.

People living on riverbanks must be alert and climbers should return from the mountains, Nepals National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority said in a statement.

Army soldiers carry a boat to evacuate people from a flooded area as Cyclone Yaas makes landfall at Ramnagar in Purba Medinipur district in the eastern state of West Bengal, India, May 26, 2021. Photo: Reuters

A horse crosses a water-logged road after rains ahead of Cyclone Yaas at Digha in Purba Medinipur district in the eastern state of West Bengal, India, May 26, 2021. Photo: Reuters

A woman salvages her belongings near her damaged hut following Cyclone Yaas in Digha, Purba Medinipur district in the eastern state of West Bengal, India, May 27, 2021. Photo: Reuters

People use their mobile phones to take pictures of waves breaking on a beach front following Cyclone Yaas in Digha, Purba Medinipur district in the eastern state of West Bengal, India, May 27, 2021. Photo: Reuters
Police in Tien Giang Province, located in Vietnams Mekong Delta, on Wednesday arrested 16 people implicated in an illicit gambling ring that was operated on a tourist boat.

At 1:30 pm on the same day, police officers found the tourist boat operated by Nguyen Van Son, 47, from Tan Phu Dong District in the same province, showing suspicious signs.

As they raided the boat while it was docked on a local canal, they caught 13 women and three men illegally playing card games for money on site.

Illegal gamblers are caught playing cards on a tourist boat in Tien Giang Province, Vietnam, May 26, 2021. Photo: Le Hoai / Tuoi Tre

Police confiscated 12 cellphones, VND51 million (US$2,203) in cash, and several used 52-card decks.

The gamblers said that Nguyen Phu Si, the 42-year-old owner of the boat hailing from Tan Phu Dong, was the organizer of the gambling racket.

About 8:30 am on the same day, the Tien Giang police also broke up an illegal cockfight den operated by Nguyen Huu Hai, 45, in Cai Be District.

Illegal gamblers are caught betting on cockfights in Tien Giang Province, Vietnam, May 26, 2021. Photo: Hoai Thuong / Tuoi Tre

At the cockpit, police officers detained 12 people and took away two roosters, 20 used tape rolls, one five-kilogram weight, seven pairs of iron spurs, ten mobile phones, 12 motorbikes, and nearly VND52 million ($2,250) in cash.

In Vietnam, gambling and organizing gambling and related gaming activities are subject to fines of VND10-50 million ($430-2,150) and jail terms of three to seven years.

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A batch of 288,000 doses of AstraZenecas COVID-19 vaccine arrived in Vietnam on Tuesday night, raising the total number of jabs the country has received to nearly 2.9 million.

The doses are currently in cold storage at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City.

This batch is a portion of the 30 million doses purchased by Vietnam Vaccine JSC (VNVC) from AstraZeneca in a deal inked in November 2020.

Vietnam has so far received nearly 2.9 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine, all of which were manufactured by AstraZeneca.

On February 24, the first shipment from the deal  117,600 jabs  arrived in the country.

A batch of 811,200 shots supplied by COVAX, a global initiative that brings together governments and manufacturers to ensure COVID-19 vaccines reach those in the greatest need, was delivered on April 1.

An additional 1,682,400 doses from this initiative arrived in Vietnam on May 16.

COVAX provided the vaccine shots for free.

Vietnam has managed to secure the commitment of approximately 110 million COVID-19 vaccine doses from producers and partners, including 38.9 million free doses from COVAX, 30 million already bought from AstraZeneca, 31 million to be purchased from Pfizer/BioNTech, and 10 million the Ministry of Health has registered to purchase through the initiative under a cost-sharing mechanism.

The country has administered 1,034,867 coronavirus vaccine shots to medical staff and other frontline workers since it began mass inoculation on March 8.

A total of 28,522 people have been given a full two-dose course.

As of Thursday morning, Vietnam has documented 6,111 COVID-19 cases, with 2,853 recoveries and 45 deaths.

The country has recorded 3,052 local infections in 30 provinces and cities since April 27.

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The Ministry of Health confirmed 36 more domestic coronavirus cases in Ho Chi Minh City on Thursday, all traced to a registered religious sect.

The cases were linked to Revival Ekklesia Mission, a Christian congregation based in Go Vap District, the health ministry said in a report.

This sect was given a permit in 2006, Nguyen Duy Tan, head of religious affairs at the Ho Chi Minh City Department of External Relations, said on Thursday.

The patients live in District 12, Binh Thanh District, Go Vap District, Tan Binh District, Tan Phu District, Hoc Mon District, Nha Be District, and district-level Thu Duc City, the municipal Center for Disease Control said in an epidemiological investigation the same day.

Twenty-nine of the patients are Revival Ekklesia Mission followers while seven were their direct contacts, the center elaborated.

Health authorities are in the dark about this clusters source of infection, as contact tracing and targeted lockdown have been underway since its detection.

The cluster was first uncovered when a woman came to a local hospital for a check on her respiratory symptoms on Wednesday.

The Ministry of Health announced one virus-related death and 227 local infections nationwide on Thursday.

Bac Giang Province, an epicenter in the north, recorded 128 of the transmissions.

Vietnam has been fighting the COVID-19 pathogens re-emergence since April 27, with 3,255 community cases having been reported in 30 out of 63 provinces and cities.

Bac Giang has reported 1,648 patients in this ongoing fourth wave, followed by Bac Ninh Province with 676, Hanoi with 351, Da Nang with 155, and Vinh Phuc with 89.

Forty-four patients, including the said 36 infections, have been recorded in Ho Chi Minh City during the current bout.

Yen Bai, Quang Ngai, Dong Nai, Nghe An, Quang Ninh, Quang Nam, Quang Tri, and Thua Thien-Hue have logged zero additional domestic cases for two weeks.

Vietnam has detected 6,316 cumulative COVID-19 cases, including 4,824 local infections, since the virus first hit the country on January 23, 2020, according to the Ministry of Healths data.

Forty-six patients have died, most having suffered critical pre-existing health problems.

The nation confirmed 106 community cases in the first wave from January 23 to April 16, 2020, 554 in the second from July 25 to December 1, 2020, and 910 in the third from January 28 to March 25, 2021.

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Government agencies in northern Vietnam's Bac Giang City have eventually taken a local woman who is a close contact of a coronavirus patient to a quarantine facility after forcing her out of her residence this week.

The woman, 44-year-old Pham Thi Q., was taken out of her house and sent to a centralized quarantine site on Wednesday, authorities in the citys Tran Nguyen Han Ward reported.

The move was made by local COVID-19 control forces in coordination with relevant agencies, Phung Thi Thu Hien, secretary of the wards Party Committee, told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on Thursday.

Local authorities said they had sent staff to Q.s house to ask her to make a medical declaration after she was determined to be one of the close contacts of an infected patient, but she did not follow the request.

The case was reported to the citys government and police, so the local Peoples Committee later issued an order to place the woman under concentrated quarantine.

A vehicle was then sent to her house, where local authorities, including police, repeatedly requested the woman to get out but Q. kept staying on the third floor.

Officials therefore used a ladder truck to approach Q. and demanded that she comply with epidemic prevention rules, but she insisted on not leaving her home.

Eventually, local authorities decided to break open the door of the house and escorted her out.

This incident occurred amid an escalating outbreak in Bac Giang Province, which is topping the list of 30 provinces and cities that have reported 3,105 local coronavirus infections since April 27, which marked the beginning of the ongoing fourth wave.

The province has documented 1,564 patients in this round. Bac Giang City is the capital of Bac Giang Province.

In its report at noon on Thursday, the Ministry of Health recorded 53 new domestic cases, of which Bac Giang accounted for 21.

The country has so far recorded 6,164 cumulative COVID-19 patients, including 2,853 recoveries and 45 deaths.

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Here are todays leading news stories:

COVID-19 Updates

-- The Ministry of Health confirmed 24 domestic COVID-19 cases on Thursday morning, raising the countrys tally to 6,111, with 2,853 recoveries and 45 deaths.

-- As of Thursday morning, at least 13 people in Ho Chi Minh City who are members of Revival Ekklesia Mission, a Christian congregation based in Go Vap District, have tested positive for the novel coronavirus, according to the municipal Center for Disease Control.

-- Authorities in Da Nang will permit taxis, contract vehicles with fewer than nine seaters, ride-hailing cars and motorbikes, and two-wheeler delivery services to get back to business from 6:00 am on Friday after eight days registering no new local infections.

-- Authorities in the northern province of Bac Ninh on Wednesday night decided to establish two makeshift hospitals that have 700 beds in total to prepare for the treatment of patients infected with the coronavirus.

-- On Wednesday, police in Phu Ly City in the northern province of Ha Nam arrested an 18-year-old woman who had direct contact with a confirmed COVID-19 patient after she had escaped from a centralized quarantine center before fulfilling her 21 days of mandatory isolation.

-- Social distancing has been reinstated in the entire districts of Hiep Hoa and Yen The in the northern province of Bac Giang from 12:00 pm on Wednesday as COVID-19 infections spiked, according to the provincial Peoples Committee.

Society

-- A crucial pass in the Central Highlands province of Dak Lak became congested on Wednesday because of severe landslides caused by heavy downpours.

-- Police in the Mekong Delta province of Tien Giang have arrested 16 people and impounded 12 cellphones and VND51 million (US$2,203) in cash after breaking up an illicit gambling ring that was operated on a tourist boat.

-- Authorities in northern Quang Binh Province arrested two Vietnamese men who had organized the illegal entry of four Chinese men into Vietnam from China on Wednesday.

-- A 12-year-old boy has his left testicle removed due to testicular torsion after suffering from pain in his genitals for two days, according to doctors at Vietnam German Friendship Hospital in Hanoi.

-- Police in Hai Phong City found 1,057 bags of arrowroot, a popular material in cosmetic production, weighing around 52.8 metric tons at Huong Giang Company on Wednesday, suspecting them to have been falsified of origin and production.

Education

-- All six members of the Vietnamese team won medals, including two golds, one silver, and three bronzes, at the 2021 Asia-Pacific Informatics Olympiad held by Indonesia, according to the Ministry of Education and Training.

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The Ho Chi Minh City Center for Disease Control (HCDC) announced three local coronavirus infections and 10 suspected cases on Thursday morning, all belonging to a religious sect.

Three people had their retests return positive for COVID-19 on Thursday morning after having tested positive once on Wednesday night, the HCDC said in a report.

Two of them are a married couple living in Thanh Loc Ward, District 12 while the other is residing in Hoc Mon District and works in Phu Nhuan District.

The three belong to Revival Ekklesia Mission, a Christian congregation based in Go Vap District.

Ten other members of the sect have tested positive for the virus once, the HCDC said, regarding them as suspected cases.

One of them is a cook at Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers in District 1.

Twenty-seven members of the sect living in seven districts have been found and sent to centralized quarantine centers in association with the 13 confirmed and suspected cases.

Health workers are tracing their contacts for quarantine and testing.

Vietnam has been fighting the COVID-19 pathogens re-emergence since April 27, with 3,052 community transmissions having been reported in 30 out of 63 provinces and cities.

Eleven patients, including the three Revival Ekklesia Mission members, have been recorded in Ho Chi Minh City in this bout.

Vietnam has detected 6,111 cumulative COVID-19 cases, including 4,621 local infections, since the virus emerged in the country on January 23, 2020, according to the Ministry of Healths data.

The three new cases in Ho Chi Minh City have not been counted in this tally.

Forty-five patients have died, most having suffered critical pre-existing health problems.

The current round has seen 10 patients pass away, with the remaining 35 deaths reported last year.

Vietnam has administered 1,034,867 coronavirus vaccine shots to medical staff and other frontline workers.

A total of 28,522 people have been given a full two-dose course.

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A rider saved his own life by clinging to a trucks underside for nearly 20 kilometers after being thrown off his motorbike in a road crash in Vietnam last weekend.

In the late hours of Sunday, Ngo Minh Vy, a 26-year-old trucker, sideswiped a motorbike carrying two riders on a bridge in Binh Thuan Province, located in the south-central part of the country.

The motorbikes passenger, identified as Le Quoc Trung, 16, from central Quang Tri Province, was killed after being run over by the truck.

The motorbike driver, Nguyen Van Chien, 30, survived the crash by hanging on to the truck.

Nguyen Van Chien gestures at his home in Binh Thuan Province, Vietnam after surviving a road crash on May 23, 2021. Photo: Duc Trong / Tuoi Tre

According to Chien, the crash threw him under the truck and he instinctively grabbed the vehicle's undercarriage.

He was then dragged 20 kilometers until it pulled over at a gas station.

I had no choice but to hang on to it," Chien recalled.

"If I let go, the next truck would run over me anyway.

At the pit stop, the truck driver was shocked to see Chien crawl out from the trucks underbody.

Chien then confronted the trucker and his co-driver over the accident, only to find out they were completely unaware of what had happened.

All three immediately returned to the crash scene and discovered that Trung had been killed on the spot.

Nguyen Van Chien points at the helmet that protected him from the crash. Photo: Duc Trong / Tuoi Tre

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Vietnam has supplied 800 ventilators, two million surgical masks, 300,000 N95 masks, and other medical equipment to Cambodia to support the countrys fight against COVID-19.

The supplies were handed over during a ceremony chaired by Vietnamese Ambassador to Cambodia Vu Quang Minh and Cambodian Minister of Health and head of the central committee for COVID-19 prevention and control Mam Bunheng on Wednesday.

Vietnam had previously provided protective gear, medical masks, COVID-19 testing equipment, and US$200,000 to support Cambodia's coronavirus prevention and control efforts.

Through the Embassy of Vietnam in Cambodia, the Khmer - Vietnam Association in Cambodia, organizations and individuals in Vietnam, as well as Vietnamese organizations and businesses operating in Cambodia have donated goods and funds to help Cambodian agencies and localities in their pandemic response.

At the ceremony, Minister Mam Bunheng expressed his gratitude to Ambassador Minh, as well as the government and people of Vietnam for their continued support, especially in the health sector.

The assistance once again affirmed that the traditional friendship, solidarity, and cooperation between Cambodia and Vietnam, he added.

Ambassador Minh praised Cambodia's achievements in COVID-19 prevention and control.

The Vietnamese diplomat thanked the Cambodian government for treating and caring for Vietnamese citizens infected with the coronavirus in Cambodia, as well as for providing favorable policies on COVID-19 treatment and vaccination for the Vietnamese community there.

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Eight people killed, suspect dead in mass shooting in San Jose, U.S. California

Xinhua) 08:29, May 27, 2021

Police and investigators work at the scene of a mass shooting in San Jose, California, the United States, on May 26, 2021. (Photo by Dong Xudong/Xinhua)

Police confirmed that eight people died at the scene and one person was taken to a hospital. The gunman also died at the scene.

SAN FRANCISCO, May 26 (Xinhua) -- Nine people including the suspect were dead and at least one person was injured Wednesday morning after a shooting at a Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) yard north of downtown San Jose in the U.S. state of California, according to the local authorities.

The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office confirmed that eight people died at the scene and one person was taken to a hospital, with no details on their conditions. The gunman also died at the scene.

Law enforcement officials identified the gunman as Samuel Cassidy, a 57-year-old VTA maintenance worker, whose motivation remained unknown.

Police escort people to a reunification center for VTA employees and families near the scene of a mass shooting in San Jose, California, the United States, on May 26, 2021. (Photo by Dong Xudong/Xinhua)

Sheriff's officials and VTA officials confirmed that the shooting occurred at the facility at 101 Younger Avenue, and some of the victims were VTA employees.

At about 6:35 a.m., San Jose police received multiple 911 calls about gunfire at the VTA yard, and units responded to the scene. The shooter was confirmed dead at about 8:10 a.m.

The FBI also responded to the scene at the light-rail facility and was actively engaged in the investigation, according to local media reports.

"This is a horrific day for our city, and it's a tragic day for the VTA family," San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo said. "Our heart pains for the families and the co-workers because we know that so many are feeling deeply this loss of their loved ones and their friends."

People enter a reunification center for VTA employees and families near the scene of a mass shooting in San Jose, California, the United States, on May 26, 2021. (Photo by Dong Xudong/Xinhua)

A reunification center for VTA employees and families was set up at the County Building near the scene for those who may be looking for each other, sheriff's officials said.

VTA light rail service was suspended at noon until further notice.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
The director of a national mental health hospital in Hanoi has lost his job title after a patient was caught operating a drug dealing racket on site and even throwing drug parties with the participation of hospital staff members nearly two months ago.

The Ministry of Health confirmed on Thursday morning that the agency had removed Vuong Van Tinh, director of the National Mental Hospital 1 in Thuong Tin District, from his position for mismanagement that led to serious consequences.

Nguyen Tuan Dai, deputy director of the infirmary, was reprimanded for failure to ensure regulations are strictly followed at the medical facility.

Since the incident was discovered at the hospital nearly two months ago, the health ministry has established a disciplinary council and convened several meetings to review the responsibility of those in charge and determine the suitable disciplinary action for them.

The ministry will continue coordinating with law enforcement agencies in their investigation into the case.

Further action will be taken when the probe is completed.

Nguyen Tuan Hung, deputy head of the Department of Organization and Personnel under the Ministry of Health, has been tasked with managing the National Mental Hospital 1 until a new director is appointed.

On March 31, police officers under the municipal Department of Public Security confirmed they had broken up an illegal drug racket run by Nguyen Xuan Quy, 39, who had a history of mental illness and was admitted to the National Mental Hospital 1 in November 2018.

Quy, as an inpatient, was found to have modified his room at the hospital. He equipped it with soundproofing, loudspeakers, and laser lights to use drugs and party with friends, some hospital staff members, and even prostitutes.

He operated the illegal drug trading ring right on the premises of the infirmary and had multiple subordinates.

Officers then arrested Quy, along with his four accomplices.

Nguyen Anh Vu, a technician of the hospitals department of functional rehabilitation and traditional medicine, was charged for failure to report a crime.

Police also confiscated 6.1 kilograms of synthetic drugs after searching the suspects places of residence.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
On Mondays Four Corners, Sean Nicholls reports on Packers Gamble, a cautionary tale of big money, back room lobbying and political influence.

It began with a discreet meeting and a personal pitch in the home of a powerful media figure, Alan Jones.

What do you feed a premier and a billionaire? Reporter, Sean Nicholls

What followed was a textbook example of what big money, back room lobbying and political influence can deliver.

It seemed to be a political steamroller. It did seem that it had a momentum and having had James Packer behind it and knowing his powerful friends, it seemed to me at the time that this was going to happen. Former regulator

Crown Sydney was spruiked as a world class six-star resort and VIP casino development destined to become a jewel in the Crown casino empire. But when it finally opened to the public late last year, the man behind the project, gaming tycoon James Packer, was nowhere to be seen and the casino at the heart of the plan was not allowed to operate.

It seemed to be at times, profit at any costthey looked like they had things to hide, and they did. Regulator

Multiple inquiries into Crowns operations are underway across the country as regulators and royal commissioners examine how the company has conducted itself. The gaming giant is undergoing a corporate makeover in the hope it will be allowed to open the doors of its Sydney casino. Its all a very long way from the bullish plan launched by James Packer on an unsuspecting city nine years ago.

All of a sudden you had one of the most connected billionaires in the country, suddenly coming out and saying they wanted to put a billion-dollar casino on the shores of Sydney Harbour. Now that came out of nowhere in the eyes of the general public. MP

The story of how both the casino licence and the building was approved is a cautionary tale.

Its not an iconic building. Its an iconic representation of a bad process. Architect

Now, as James Packer prepares to walk away from the casino business he championed, those who fought against Crown and lost say there are lessons to be learned.

That building should stand there and be a warning to us allwe should look at that building and forever know that we should never let that happen again. Architect

James Packer is now paying a big price for his high stakes gamble.

The Crown saga is basically the end of the Packers in Australia. Finance writer

Monday 31st May at 8.30pm on ABC.

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Syndicated US talk show The Kelly Clarkson Show is set to replace The Ellen DeGeneres Show in 2022.

Clarksons show currently airs at 2pm in the top three markets, New York, Los Angeles & Chicago, but will move to the 3pm slot, a lucrative time period that leads into local newscasts.

Variety reports Clarkson and DeGeneres shows may even swap time slots in some markets before DeGeneres concludes her run.

The Kelly Clarkson Show is one of the most optimistic success stories in first-run syndication, said Tracie Wilson, executive VP of NBCUniversal Syndication Studios. It is a treasured part of NBCUniversal Syndication Studios offering and we are proud to partner with the NBC Owned Television Stations group to continue the shows success. Kelly and our entire production team put their heart, intent and incredible passion into making a show that resonates with people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds. Were working on some big plans for Season 3 and are looking forward to becoming the premier show in daytime for years to come.

The Kelly Clarkson Show is yet to premiere in Australia.

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Paul Murray Live is in Wagga Wagga tonight and there are audience tickets available.

Murray will be speaking with tourist operators, business owners and local heroes, as well as politicians and council members including Wagga Wagga Mayor Councillor Greg Conkey.

Delta Goodrem will also perform All of My Friends and Not Me, Not I.

I cant wait to head down to Wagga Wagga and speak to the locals. The community spirit in Wagga has always been a thing to admire, but after the pandemic hardships, this collective strength has grown two-fold. Its great to see this town getting back on its feet and I want to show the rest of Australia why Wagga Wagga is the place to be! Murray said.

To be part of the Wagga Wagga Our Town audience please email [email protected]

9pm AEST on Sky News

Updated.

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Caio Pessagno Clinches WPT500 Knockout Title ($102,704)

May 27 2021 Matthew Pitt

Caio Pessagno is the 2021 WPT Online Series WPT500 Knockout champion! The talented Brazilian came out on top of a 2,054-strong field to claim a prize worth $102,704 with bounties included.

WPT #08 WPT500 Knockout Final Table Results

Place Player Country Prize Bounties Total prize 1 Caio Pessagno Brazil $62,240 $40,464 $102,704 2 Manfred Hermann Austria $62,135 $25,480 $87,615 3 Yulian Bogdanov Bulgaria $40,019 $15,788 $55,807 4 Diogo Coelho Malta $26,321 $11,073 $37,394 5 Sebastian Hoyes Villegas Mexico $17,816 $4,091 $21,908 6 Michiel Brummelhuis Netherlands $13,540 $6,121 $19,662 7 Charles La Boissonniere Canada $9,796 $3,972 $13,769 8 Fabiano Kovalski Brazil $7,771 $3,323 $11,095 9 Jerry Wong Canada $6,064 $1,828 $7,892

The final table kicked off at 7:05 p.m. BST on May 26 with nine players in the hunt for the title. Little did the finalists know at the restart that Lady Luck was not a fan of strong hands, the cruel mistress would crack some powerhouse holdings.

Jerry Wong was the first player to discover this. Charles La Boissonniere opened with a raise to 5,400,000 at the 1,250,000/2,500,000/315,000a level, chip leader Yulian Bogdanov three-bet to 15,125,000, only for Wong to four-bet jam for 33,011,309. Only Bogdanov called. It was the very strong for Wong, but the for Bogdanov. The kings held, and the final table lost its first player.

Simon Mattsson Wins WPT Online Series Event #23: $10,300 WPT High Roller

Kovalski Runs Kings Into Aces

Fabiano Kovalski suffered a similar fate in that he found a super-strong hand that looked almost certain to double his stack. Kovalski got his chips into the middle with only to run straight into the of Pessagno. The five community cards provided no drama, and Kovalski bowed out.

Aces were then cracked to reduce the player count further. La Boissonniere got his stack into the middle of the felt with with the board reading . Manfred Hermann held and spiked the flush-completing on the river.

The of Michiel Brummelhuis proved no match for the of Bogdanov soon after La Boissonniere's demise. Brummelhuis three-bet Bogdanov's preflop raise before open-shoving for 76,869,147 into a 63,480,000 pot on the flop. Bogdanov called with his two pair, which held as the turn and river bricked.

Kings No Good For Villegas

Amazingly, the run of big hands being useless continued when Mexico-based Sebastian Hoyos Villegas found in the hole. Villegas was down a shade over ten big blinds when he looked down at kings. He jammed all-in from under the gun, and Bogdanov called from the big blind with . Bogdanov flopped two pair as the five community cards fell .

Connor Drinan Leads 78 Advancing From WPT Online Series Main Event Day 1A

Fourth place went to Diogo Coelho who could not crack the nines of Hermann. Hermann raised 2.5 times the big blind with and called when Coelho ripped it in for 20 big blinds from the big blind with . Hermann flopped a set on the board.

Heads-up was set when Hermann's pair of nines held in a major coinflip. Pessagno opened the preflop betting with , Bogdanov three-bet with before calling off the rest of his stack when Hermann four-bet jammed with . Bogdanov had a plethora of outs on the turn of the board but none of them came in.

Pessagno went into the one-on-one battle with Hermann holding a 604,049,738 to 418,864,613 chip lead, and he never fell behind. The final hand saw Hermann raise to 17,600,000 with , and Pessagno call from the big blind with . Pessagno check-called a 11,160,000 continuation bet on the flop, and a 44,000,000 bet on the turn. Pessagno expertly checked again on the river, leading to Hermann committing all but five of his chips as a bluff. Those chips and the final pot of the evening went to Pessagno when he raised all-in.
Vamos! Volkmann Victorious in the Super MILLION$

May 27 2021 Matthew Pitt

Bruno Volkmann has joined a small group of elite poker tournaments who have won the GGPoker Super MILLION$ more than once.

Brazilian Volkmann first won this tournament in September 2020 and now adds a second title, and an additional $319,830, after taking down the May 25, 2021 edition.

Super MILLION$ Final Table Results

Place Player Country Prize 1 Bruno Volkmann Brazil $319,830 2 Elio Fox Mexico $253,440 3 David Coleman Canada $200,831 4 Sam Greenwood Canada $159,142 5 Antonio Mirotta Austria $126,107 6 Michael Addamo Canada $99,930 7 Joao Vieira Luxembourg $79,186 8 Joakim Andersson Malta $62,749 9 Zhuang Ruan Japan $49,723

This weeks Super MILLION$ final table was a story of impressive comebacks. Volkmann sat down in fifth-place with a 27 big blind stack before marching onto victory. Equally, if not more, impressive was the comeback of Elio Fox. The two-time WSOP bracelet winner returned to the action with a meagre 8.5 big blind stack yet navigated his way to a runner-up finish worth $253,440.

While Volkmann and Fox are obviously delighted with how their tournament progressed, Japans Zhuang Ruan will be disappointed. Ruan sat down with a 42.8 big blind stack, enough for fourth place at the restart. However, they were the first player out of the door.

Fox raised to 120,000 at the 25,000/50,000/6,000a level with what turned out to be ace-king. Ruan three-bet to 265,000 with pocket kings, only for Fox to jam all-in. Ruan called off the 760,179 chips he had behind and busted courtesy of two aces on the flop.

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The dangerous Joakim Andersson was the next player to bow out, doing so when he raised to 467,358, which left him only 150,000 behind. Fox called before betting enough to set Andersson all-in on a seven-high draw-heavy flop, and was called. Fox showed pocket jacks, Anderson king-queen, and Andersson never caught up.

A short-stacked Joao Vieira, a regular at Super MILLION$ final table, crashed out in seventh. Vieira opened to 275,000 leaving himself only 70,702 behind, doing so with ace-king. The action folded around to Fox in the big blind, where he woke up with pocket tens. Fox set Vieira all-in, and was called. A queen-high board was not was Vieira needed and he busted in seventh.

Three-time Super MILLION$ champion Michael Addamo was eliminated in sixth place and won the tournaments last five-figure prize, although the $99,930 he collected was near as damn it $100,000.

Rudolph and O'Dwyer Seal Sunday Victories at GGPoker

Addamo came unstuck against Fox, who opened to 140,000 at the 30,000/60,000/7,500a level. Addamo defended his big blind with queen-four despite it leaving him with only 3.5 big blinds behind. That micro stack went into the middle on an all-diamond nine-high flop, Addamo holding the four of diamonds. Fox called with king-jack, with no diamonds, and won the hand when the turn and river bricked.

Fifth place and $126,107 went to Antonio Mirotta one hand after Addamo busted. Sam Greenwood raised to 132,000 with queen-eight offsuit, Fox responded with a three-bet to 589,000 with pocket kings from the small blind, and Mirotta four-bet jammed for 2,146,888 with a pair of tens in the hole. Greenwood instantly mucked, but Fox called equally as fast. No help arrived for those tens and Mirotta headed for the exits.

The final four became three when Greenwood fell by the wayside. Greenwood was second in chips with 85 big blinds but was still the next player out of the door. He lost a few large pots but that did not stop Greenwood from being one of the most active takes at the table. His final hand saw Volkmann min-raise to 240,000 under the gun with king-jack and Greenwood defended his big blind with ten-seven of diamonds. Greenwood initially checked the arrival of the flop, which fell deuce, deuce, seven. Volkmann continued with a 150,000 bet, Greenwood check-raised to 420,000, and Volkmann called. The turn was a king and Greenwood check-raised all-in for 900,162 after Volkmann tested the waters with a 120,000 bet. Volkmann called, the river was a blank, and Greenwood crashed out.

David Coleman did not last too much longer; his elimination sent the tournament heads-up. Coleman got his stack in with pocket sixes against Foxs ace-eight, and lost due to an eight on the river.

That hand gave Fox a 10,836,288 to 5,363,712 chip advantage over Volkmann, but he could not get the job done. Deals are not permitted in the Super MILLION$, but Fox and Volkmann agreed to one privately away from the tables. This resulted in the pair open-shoving their hands, essentially flipping for the title of champion.

Volkmann doubled his stack in the first of those flips, and secured the title with second of those flips, his ace-five beating Foxs dominated king-five.
Poland becomes the first NATO country to purchase Turkish UAVs, which have proved their mettle in various high-intensity conflicts, TRT World reports. As Poland is set to become the first NATO member to buy Turkish armed drones, regional experts see the deal as a major step challenging the American monopoly over the sale of combat Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) at a global level.

"The agreement with Poland paves the way for more NATO countries purchasing Turkish drones in the future," Merve Seren, an Ankara-based defence analyst, told TRT World. According to Seren, the demand for Turkish drones is increasing in the global defence industry because they have successfully altered battleground equations and neutralised the enemy targets in high intensity conflicts like Syria, Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh. The main reason for Turkey's arrival in the UAV market is the use of Turkish drones in a real war environment, said Seren, who is an Assistant Professor at Ankara Yildirim Beyazit University.

While US drones have proved their mettle in places like Yemen and Afghanistan, Seren said China and Israel are yet to convince the world of the efficacy of their drone technology on difficult battle fronts. This is the main reason for Turkey entering the UAV market. It is the use [of Turkish drones] in a real war environment, she said. While the helicopter provides limited air superiority, the UAVs provide extended air superiority for 24 hours for the soldiers on the ground. Seren said that the conflict in Idlib in 2020 was the turning point for Turkish drones because a full drone attack was used there. The Turkish government carried out coordinated attacks against Bashar al Assad's army and militias loyal to him. The aerial attacks were dubbed horde attacks.

Good news for Poland

The contract between Ankara and Warsaw signed on Monday during a visit by Polish President Andrzej Duda to Turkey. When Polish defence minister Mariusz Blaszczak informed the public about the deal on Sunday, he described it as "good news". I want to share some good news with my audience. #WojskoPolskie(Polish army) will be equipped with modern equipment, with unmanned aerial vehicles #Bayraktar TB2 which have a striking force and have proven themselves in the wars in the east of our continent. They were also used in Africa, the Polish defence ministry tweeted on Saturday, quoting Blaszczak.

Poland will buy 24 Bayraktar TB2 type UAVs from Turkey and the first batch of drones will be delivered in 2022. The country has also bought a logistics and training package. The drones will be armed with anti-tank projectiles.

Turkey has become the world's fourth biggest drone producer after the US, Israel and China. The Turkish government invested energy and resources in drone innovation after feeling neglected by the US, which not only refused to sell attack drones to Ankara in 2010 and 2012, but also delayed the delivery of Patriot, a surface-to-air missile system, forcing its NATO ally to purchase S-400 missile defence system from Russia.

Bayraktar TB-2 entered the inventory of the Turkish army in 2014 and is currently used by several countries including Ukraine, Qatar and Azerbaijan. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said in March that Saudi Arabia was also interested in buying the drones. No further development has been reported, however.

The military grade drones produced by the Turkish defence technology company Baykar have given Turkish security forces an advantage, especially in cross-border, anti-terror operations. In the last five years, Ankara deployed its drones in several crossborder military operations: Euphrates Shield, Olive Branch, and Spring Shield. The main aim of the Turkish army was to liberate its Syrian border from terrorist entities with a minimum number of its forces on the ground.

Turkish drones have also changed the course of the Libyan civil war by helping the UN- recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) and defeating warlord Khalifa Haftar on various battlefields across the countrys crucial western and central territories.

The Turks saved us just in time, the GNA Interior Minister, Fathi Bushagha, said last year in reference to the Turkish drones that were sent to Tripoli's aid. According to Merve Seren, the main factor behind the rapid rise of Turkish drones in the global market is the price and process of the sale.

Turkish drones are far cheaper and their transfer much smoother than US drones. Washington's Foreign Military Sales(FMS) program has made the transfer of drones subject to the cumbersome process of reviews and re-transfer assurances and congressional reviews. It is obvious that drones are becoming much more beneficial in the modern world where hybrid warfare methods are used instead of the usual conventional warfare, like in Syria, Seren said.

During last years Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Turkish drones managed to pin down Armenian forces, who lost at least 200 tanks, 90 armoured vehicles and 182 artillery pieces. The quick and decisive defeat of Armenia in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict prompted the UK to upgrade its combat drones and launch a new UAV programme.

According to Italian defence expert, Federico Borsari, Turkey has developed a wide variety of drones and some of them belong to the "strategic class with high payload capacity". These particular drones, according to Borsari, also possess "air-to-air and air-to-ground attack capabilities, mission interoperability with fighter jets and fully autonomous flight and take-off control systems".

Those qualities provide the Turkish armed forces with "a whole new level of ISTAR and strike capabilities that only Israel (and the US) currently possess," Borsari added.
Territorial disputes and border issues in the South Caucasus are the major threat to stability and security in the region. All the international borders became problematic after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. It is worth especially noting the border issue between Azerbaijan and Armenia, as two states could not start the process of the delimitation and demarcation of the state border because of the Karabakh conflict, Eurasia Review reports.

The Karabakh conflict, which broke out during the early 1990s, resulted in territorial losses of Azerbaijan. Following the war, Amenia occupied twenty percent of the Azerbaijani territories, and consequently, Azerbaijan lost control over the major parts of the state border, both with Armenia and Iran. During the years of occupation, those territories have been used as the illicit movement of weapons and drugs.

Although the international law was always on the Azerbaijani side, and conflicting parties tried to resolve the Karabakh conflict by diplomatic talks, the long-awaited Karabakh peace plan did not achieve. The fragile peace and the conflict escalations caused enough suffering and the human tragedy for the Azerbaijani and the Armenian people. The long-lasting conflict was resolved only after the Second Karabakh War, which began on 27 September and continued for 44 days. It should be noted that the escalation was the biggest and the most serious one since the 1990s.

Military counter-offensive operations of the Azerbaijani army during the Second Karabakh War were successful and made it possible to liberate several occupied regions. The war was stopped only after Russian interference on November 10, 2020, when Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Russia signed the Trilateral Agreement. According to the agreement, Russia became a key guarantor for the ceasefire and peace. Under the November Agreement, 1,960 armed troops, ninety armored vehicles, and 380 motor vehicles and special equipment units have been deployed to the Karabakh region. Armenia pledged to return Agdam, Kalbajar, and Lachin districts to Azerbaijani control, while Azerbaijan guaranteed the security of the Lachin Corridor to be used as a humanitarian connection between Armenia and Armenians in Karabakh. Moreover, the Joint Russian-Turkish Center for Monitoring the Ceasefire was opened in the Agdam region to monitor the implementation of the ceasefire.

The conflict has been already resolved, and during the post-war period, the parties try to find solutions for important issues such as the restoration of economic relations by opening transport links as well as the demarcation of the state border. It is very important to underline that the delimitation/demarcation is significant for the future security and stability of the region. After the November Agreement, Azerbaijan started the process of demarcation using Soviet maps and GPS. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan; Measures to strengthen the border protection system implemented within the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan are carried out based on maps available to each of the sides that define the borderline between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Since regaining its independence, there has been no state border between the two countries for obvious reasons, and for this reason, we speak about the complicated technical process, which is currently accompanied by disagreements between the sides.

However, the recent incidents around the Sev Lidj (Qaragol) in the Syunik region (Zangezur in Azerbaijani) have raised the importance of the full delimitation and demarcation of the state border between Armenia and Azerbaijan. It is worth noting that Syunik/Zangezur region is a very important region in terms of regional economic integration, and according to the 9th section of the November Agreement all economic and transport links in the region must be restored, and Armenia guarantees the safety of transport links between the western regions of Azerbaijan and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic of Azerbaijan. It means that Azerbaijan will be able to restore the old transport way to its enclave via the Zangezur corridor, which was closed for decades. Zangezur corridor will develop economic integration and boost the economic development of the regional countries.

Meanwhile, after tensions on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border, Armenia addressed this issue to the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) military bloc, but the country could not receive the CSTOs support. In response, Azerbaijan Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov held several telephone conversations with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, with Acting Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Philip Reeker and with the French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian. Minister Bayramov informed them about the measures taken to strengthen the border with Armenia and stressed the inadmissibility of exaggeration and politicization of such cases.

All the developments show that the second Karabakh War has changed the political environment in Armenia, and the ongoing social-political crisis is transforming into deep political turmoil. Now, official Yerevan aimed at escalating the situation, therefore key guarantor for peace and security in the region, Russia urged the parties to resolve all issues through political-diplomatic talks. Russian Foreign Ministry statement emphasized that Russia is ready to offer full support for the normalization of the situation in the South Caucasus. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrovs visit to Azerbaijan and Armenia, and Russian MFAs statement gave a clear signal that official Moscow would be great to not have any escalations, as it proposed to create a joint commission for the demarcation of the state border. Russia showed once again its role as a key actor to de-escalate conflict with communication. Also, the recent statement of Armenias PM Nikol Pashinyan about readiness to sign another agreement with Azerbaijan under trilateral negotiations between Armenia, Russia and Azerbaijan, supports the fact. According to the agreement the parties will create a joint commission for the demarcation of the state border. Armenia and Azerbaijan will form the national delegations in the Commissions framework until 31 May 2021. In its turn, the Russian Federation will also form a national delegation to hold consultation support in the Commissions framework until 31 May 2021.

Perhaps, only delimitation of the state border is essential for durable peace because as stated by OSCE Delimitation of the boundary is legal formalization in a treaty of the state boundary between adjoining states, whose position is graphically plotted on the topographic map and duly defined in its corresponding written description, whereupon the map and the description may become an integral part of the treaty or its annex. In fact, Azerbaijan and Armenia must sign such an agreement to achieve long-awaited peace in the South Caucasus.

In the end, it should be emphasized that the border problems between Azerbaijan and Armenia will be key challenges to security and sustainable peace if neighboring states cannot sign an agreement for the demarcation /delimitation of the two countries borders. Today, seven villages of Gazakh district and one village of Sadarak district of Nakhchivan AR are still under Armenian control. Azerbaijan wants to restore its territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. Armenia must understand that the peaceful coexistence of Azerbaijani and Armenian people in the Karabakh region is a priority of the Azerbaijani government. Carrying out propaganda against Azerbaijan and preventing the commencement of the demarcation/delimitation will only damage the peace process. The long-term solution to the Armenia-Azerbaijan border dispute is the mutual recognition of territorial integrity and support to this issue by the whole international community.
The ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) wants all political parties in the Turkish Parliament to participate in constitutional reform efforts as it would emphasize wide support from the country, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Thursday, Daily Sabah reports.

Speaking at the AK Partys extended provincial heads meeting on Istanbul's Democracy and Freedom Island to mark the 61st anniversary of the 1960 coup, Erdogan touched upon the efforts for a new constitution.

He said they seek wide-range support for the new constitution, expressing his hope that Parliament will agree on a draft with a broad consensus, and it will be presented to the nation for approval.

"Our aim is that all parties in Parliament give constructive, effective and sincere support for the development of a new and civil constitution," Erdogan said.

If the desired ground for compromise is not formed, we, as the People's Alliance, are determined to present our preparations to the discretion of our nation with other parties that support us, he added.

The president also said that their alliance partners Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) and Great Union Party (BBP) have been working to develop their own new constitution proposals, and he was recently briefed by MHP Chairperson Devlet Bahceli about his party's own draft.

"The MHP has presented its draft to us in this way. We know that other parties are also preparing in this direction, our work is finished," Erdogan said.
Armenias acting Foreign Minister Ara Aivazian has submitted his resignation, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Anna Naghdalyan informs, Public Radio of Armenia reported.
The Armenian Cabinet passed a decision on May 27 on donating some land areas in the towns of Kapan, Meghri and Tegh to the Russian Federal Security Service Border Guard Division deployed in Armenia.

According to Sputnik Armenia, the corresponding land areas were donated to the government, and it gave them to Russia's FSB Border Guard Division.

The document was signed without any discussion.

The authorities said the process is taking place in order to strengthen the Armenian south-eastern borders in relation to the 2020 November 9 trilateral statement.
A reconnaissance-sabotage group of Armenian Armed Forces tried to cross the Armenian-Azerbaijani border in the direction of the Yukhary Ayrim settlement of Azerbaijans Kalbajar district on May 27, at about 03:00 (GMT+4), the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported.

"The Armenian forces carried out mining operations on the approach to the positions of the Azerbaijani Army on the border, and as a result of immediate operational measures, 6 servicemen of the opposite side were besieged, rendered harmless and detained," the statement reads.

In the morning, a concentration of several combat vehicles, including tanks of the Armenian Armed Forces, was noticed near the border. As a result of the undertaken measures, their movement was stopped.

Currently, the operating conditions in this direction are under the control of Azerbaijani units, the defense ministry noted.

Commenting on the provocation of the Armenian Armed Forces in the direction of Kalbajar district, the press service of the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry said that attempts to violate the state border of Azerbaijan are unacceptable.

According to the Foreign Ministry, recently Armenia has been pursuing a policy of deliberately aggravating the situation on the border with Azerbaijan.

The transfer of the reconnaissance group of the Armenian Armed Forces to the territory of Azerbaijan, attempts at mining and sabotage are regarded as terrorist and provocative actions, the ministry said.

"While the mines laid by Armenia pose a threat to Azerbaijan, the sabotage committed on the Azerbaijani territory by a group of Armenian saboteurs and the next attempts to mine roads could become a serious threat to the lives of Azerbaijani servicemen and civilians,," the ministry noted.

"Azerbaijan stands for the elimination of tensions on the Armenian-Azerbaijani state border through negotiations and supports the calls of the international community for the delimitation and demarcation of the border between the two countries. Attempts aimed at violating the border of Azerbaijan are unacceptable," the statement reads.

Armenia must stop actions aimed at escalating tensions on the border of the two countries and respect the borders of the neighboring state," the ministry stressed.
Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov called on Yerevan to avoid political hysteria when discussing the border delimitation issues.

"Delimitation of borders should not be held in the form of a political hysteria, but in normal pragmatic conditions, and at the end each country should respect the internationally recognized borders," the diplomat stressed, commenting on the Yerevan reaction to Bakus suggestions By delimitation of borders.

The Foreign Minister recalled that Azerbaijan and Armenia have never previously conducted a state border delimitation.

"The mechanism is that states create a working group, if necessary, the commission with the involvement of specialists," Bayramov noted.

Armenian sabotage groups crossed the state border of Azerbaijan on May 27, at about 03:00 (GMT +4), and tried to carry out mining of Azerbaijani territories and other provocative actions.

Besides, in accordance with the preliminary reports, two sabotage and reconnaissance groups crossed the state border of Azerbaijan in two directions. One consisted of nine, and the other consisted of 15 soldiers. The movement of sabotage and reconnaissance groups was taken under control. The Azerbaijani army took immediate operational measures against the groups when the Armenian servicemen mined supply routes and other roads in the territory of Azerbaijan.

As a result, four Armenian soldiers were disarmed and detained, including one officer from the first sabotage-reconnaissance group and two soldiers from the other (six people in total).

The geographic coordinates of the territory where the Armenian saboteurs were detained are N 40  0906 and E 45  5807. The rest of the Armenian military hastily left the territory of Azerbaijan.
Operational information was received in connection with the activities of the reconnaissance-sabotage groups of the Armed Forces of Armenia on the Kalbajar sector of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border, according to the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry.

According to the information, Armenian sabotage groups crossed the state border of Azerbaijan on May 27, at about 03:00 (GMT +4), and tried to carry out mining of Azerbaijani territories and other provocative actions.

Besides, in accordance with the preliminary reports, two sabotage and reconnaissance groups crossed the state border of Azerbaijan in two directions. One consisted of nine, and the other consisted of 15 soldiers. The movement of sabotage and reconnaissance groups was taken under control. The Azerbaijani army took immediate operational measures against the groups when the Armenian servicemen mined supply routes and other roads in the territory of Azerbaijan.

As a result, four Armenian soldiers were disarmed and detained, including one officer from the first sabotage-reconnaissance group and two soldiers from the other (six people in total).

The geographic coordinates of the territory where the Armenian saboteurs were detained are N 40  0906 and E 45  5807. The rest of the Armenian military hastily left the territory of Azerbaijan.
Attempts to violate the state border of Azerbaijan are unacceptable, the press service of the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry said, commenting on the recent provocation of the Armenian Armed Forces in the direction of Kalbajar district.

As Azerbaijani Defense Ministry earlier said, a reconnaissance-sabotage group of Armenian Armed Forces undertook an attempt to enter Azerbaijans territory in the direction of the Yukhary Ayrim settlement of Azerbaijans Kalbajar district near the state border on May 27.

Besides, the group attempted to carry out reconnaissance sabotage operations and terrorist activities aimed at mining roads. It was detected. As a result of immediate operational measures, 6 Armenian servicemen who tried to mine the roads leading to the positions of the Azerbaijani Army on the border were besieged, rendered harmless, and detained.

According to the Foreign Ministry, recently Armenia has been pursuing a policy of deliberately aggravating the situation on the border with Azerbaijan.

The transfer of the reconnaissance group of the Armenian Armed Forces to the territory of Azerbaijan, attempts at mining and sabotage are regarded as terrorist and provocative actions, the ministry said.

"While the mines laid by Armenia pose a threat to Azerbaijan, the sabotage committed on the Azerbaijani territory by a group of Armenian saboteurs and the next attempts to mine roads could become a serious threat to the lives of Azerbaijani servicemen and civilians, the ministry noted. Azerbaijan stands for the elimination of tensions on the Armenian-Azerbaijani state border through negotiations and supports the calls of the international community for the delimitation and demarcation of the border between the two countries. Attempts aimed at violating the border of Azerbaijan are unacceptable.

Armenia must stop actions aimed at escalating tensions on the border of the two countries and respect the borders of the neighboring state," added the ministry.
The 16th meeting of the Belarus-Kazakhstan intergovernmental commission on trade and economic cooperation was held online and was chaired by First Deputy Prime Minister of Belarus Nikolai Snopkov and Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Roman Sklyar, BelTA learned from the press service of the Belarusian government, BelTA reports.

The results of trade and economic cooperation in Q1 2021 were positively assessed. The mutual trade amounted to $215 million, up almost 12% form the same period of 2020. Belarus posted trade surplus of $133.5 million. The participants of the meeting also hailed the development of Belarus-Kazakhstan industrial cooperation and supplies of machinery.

An important step here will be the construction of MTZ's plant in Kazakhstan to produce tractor cabins and front axles, expansion of the jointly produced range of tractors, harvesters, other agricultural and automotive equipment and units, the press service said.

The participants of the meeting agreed to hold Days of Culture of Belarus in Kazakhstan this year and discussed the organization of the Belarus-Kazakhstan forum.

The commission supported the simultaneous holding of contests of joint Belarusian-Kazakh scientific and technical projects in the current and subsequent years, which helps quickly and efficiently solve the issues related to financing the projects of mutual interest. The minutes and the action plan (road map) between the governments of Belarus and Kazakhstan on the development of trade and economic cooperation in 2021-2022 were signed at the end of the meeting, the press service said.
Turkish Minister of Health Fahrettin Koca has expressed gratitude to Russia for the agreement on deliveries of the Sputnik V vaccine against COVID-19.

"Since the start of the development of the Russian Sputnik V vaccine, we have been in contact concerning its deliveries. Now we have a signed agreement on the deliveries ... of this vaccine. I thank the Russian authorities for the support linked to this agreement," Sputnik cited Koca as saying.

He added that Turkey had signed deals to receive 270 million doses of various vaccines against COVID-19, which is three times more than the country's population.

Turkey authorized the emergency use of the Sputnik V vaccine against the coronavirus in late April.
Iran's Minister of Agriculture-Jahad Kazem Khavazi at the head of a delegation arrived in the Russian capital on Thursday morning to hold talks on ways to widen bilateral cooperation in agriculture, IRNA reports.

Upon arrival in Moscow, Khavazi told reporters that his visit is aimed at expanding agricultural cooperation and exchanging technical knowledge.

Iran and Russia enjoy considerable agricultural capacities that can be used for further cooperation, the minister said.

He went on to say that he will meet with his Russian counterpart Dmitry Patrushev to review potential areas for development trading agricultural products.

Visit to fishing sectors in Russia and meeting with members of Iranian companies active in Russia are among Khavazi's Moscow plans.

Russia annually imports 20 billion dollars of agricultural products.

Iran's Ambassador to Moscow Kazem Jalali says that problems for infrastructure of dispatch of products is the main obstacle to Iran-Russia trade.
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has invited U.S. President Joe Biden to Minsk if, as the White House indicated earlier, he really wants to discuss the problems of Belarus.

"I would like to make a public invitation: if they wish to discuss Belarus, they may visit. I will give them both an honorable reception. We will discuss all issues. I will even listen to all of the nasty things that [White House spokesperson Jen] Psaki will write for him to read out to me. There will be a frank discussion," Lukashenko said.

But sitting in Switzerland and lecturing Putin on the problems of Belarus is just laughable," TASS cited him as saying.

The Belarus leader also appeared to joke about the flight diversion, asserting that Biden "could take a risk - we can easily land a plane, we have a runway".
Protesters against the construction of the Namakhvani hydro power plant (HPP) in western Georgia have stopped their protest rally in the capital city of Tbilisi and say that they will continue the fight directly at the construction site of Namakhvani HPP.

After fruitless negotiations between the protesters and the government, the decision was made to move the protest to the capital city of Tbilisi on May 23.

Many activists and locals are protesting the construction of the HPP claiming that the project was launched without sufficient research and a thorough consideration of risks, including immediate security risks due to active seismic activity, Agenda.ge reported.

The protesters say that in addition to the environmental threat, the government has 'relinquished state interests' in the contract with Enka, the contractor company for the construction of the Namakhvani HPP.
Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet with his Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko in Sochi on Friday, May 28, and discuss relevant issues related to the further development of bilateral ties and the two countries joint projects, the Kremlin press service reported on Thursday.

"On May 28, President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin and President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko will hold talks in Sochi. Relevant issues on the further development of bilateral ties, the fulfillment of joint projects in the trade, economic, energy, cultural and humanitarian spheres, as well as issues of promoting integration within the Union State are on the agenda," TASS cited the press service as saying.

Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov earlier noted that no media statements were planned following the meeting. He pointed out that the talks between the two leaders had been planned before the Ryanair plane incident. Peskov also said that Lukashenko would have an opportunity to brief the Russian head of state on the circumstances of the incident in detail.
Russias Central Bank Chief Elvira Nabiullina considers it necessary to gradually wind up the anti-crisis measures to avoid the risks of bubbles on the lending market.

"It is necessary to wind up the anti-crisis measures gradually as they have fulfilled their tasks, otherwise we can see the risks of bubbles on the market," she said addressing the State Duma (lower house) on Thursday.

Russian Central Bank Chief expects GDP to return to pre-pandemic level in mid-2021

Russias Central Bank admits that the countrys GDP may return to the pre-pandemic level in the middle of this year, the regulators Chief Elvira Nabiullina said.

"We expect Russias GDP to return to pre-pandemic levels as early as in the second half of this year, probably by the middle of the year," TASS cited her as saying.
Russia is ready to help the process of delimitation and demarcation of borders between Azerbaijan and Armenia, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova said at a briefing.

"The main reason for the border incident is the lack of international legal registration of borders, which was inherited from the Soviet period," Zakharova said. "This problem must be solved peacefully through the negotiations."

"We see the launching of the border delimitation process with its further demarcation as a long-term solution," the spokesperson said. "Russia is ready to help. The Russian side is involved in resolving the incident on the border, assisting to reduce tension. We maintain regular contacts with Baku and Yerevan at the highest and high levels."

Zakharova stressed that both countries are at the beginning of the path to restoring a full dialogue and mutual trust.

"Russia is actively making the mediation efforts to normalize relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, stabilize the situation in the South Caucasus, turn it into a zone of prosperity," the spokesperson said. Russian peacekeepers guarantee peace and security in the Nagorno-Karabakh region."

"The trilateral working group, co-chaired by the deputy prime ministers of Russia, Azerbaijan and Armenia, is engaged in restoring transport and economic ties in the region," Zakharova added.
Presidents Vladimir Putin of Russia and Joe Biden of the United States are likely to discuss the Treaty on Open Skies at their Geneva summit but since Russia is about to wrap up the denunciation procedures, the U.S. has little time left to review its earlier decisions on pulling out, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Thursday.

"Perhaps, somehow this issue [the Treaty on Open Skies] may be touched upon. Time is running out or should I say shrinking like the Skin of Shagreen [La Peau de chagrin, a novel by French writer Honore de Balzac] and we are fulfilling the procedures on [denouncing the Treaty on Open Skies] and they will be soon completed, so there is little time left for Washington to review its earlier made decisions," Peskov cautioned, when answering a question if Russia planned to offer the U.S. a chance to return to the Open Skies Treaty at the Putin-Biden summit in Geneva.

Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin submitted a bill to the State Duma (the lower house of parliament) on denouncing the Open Skies Treaty. In practical terms, this document enables the participating countries to carry out flights over each other's territory to monitor military activity in accordance with the agreed quotas of monitoring missions. The treaty establishes the rules of flights and a mechanism of verifying compliance with its provisions and contains the requirements the planes involved must meet, as well as restrictions on the structure and technical parameters of monitoring instruments.
Russia urges not politicising the situation with the Ryanair flight, RIA news agency quoted Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin as saying on Thursday, Reuters reports.

Mishustin said Russia supports the Belarus position on the need for a transparent international investigation into the situation with the Ryanair flight, Mishustin said, according to RIA.
The United States issued a warning for nationals not to travel to Belarus on Wednesday, citing arbitrary enforcement of laws, risk of detention and the coronavirus pandemic.

The State Department issued its highest travel advisory warning, "Do Not Travel," or Level 4, two days after Belarusian authorities forced the landing of a plane transiting Belarusian airspace to arrest opposition journalist Roman Protasevich.

The agency also said Belarusian authorities detained tens of thousands of individuals, including American citizens, for alleged affiliations with opposition parties and alleged participation in political demonstrations.

"U.S. citizens in the vicinity of the demonstrations have been arrested," it said in a statement.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also issued a Level 4 Travel Health Notice for Belarus due to COVID-19, indicating a very high level of the virus in the country. "There are restrictions in place affecting U.S. citizen entry into Belarus," said the statement.
The nearly decade-long war for power at the Vietnam Export Import Commercial Joint Stock Bank (Eximbank) may be coming to an end.

After being postponed many times, Eximbank has announced it will hold an extraordinary and annual general meeting of shareholders in July.

Disputes at Eximbank have exploded over the past three years.

Conflicts between groups of shareholders at Eximbank has lasted for nearly a decade but it has been the most tense in the past 3 years. The extraordinary general meeting of shareholders has not been held since 2019. The proposals of two groups of strategic shareholders, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (holding 15%) and Ms. Ngo Thi Thuys group (over 10%), have not been approved yet.

In 2019, Eximbank postponed its general meeting of shareholders three times for various reasons such as lacking necessary number of shareholders, internal issues not yet resolved and more. In the past 5 years, Eximbank successfully held only one annual shareholders general meeting in 2018, but the results amounted to nothing.

Failing to hold the shareholders general meeting for three consecutive years, Eximbank did not report its business results in 2018, its business plans for 2019, 2020 and some other content. So far, the banks 2019 business results and the plans for 2020 and 2021 have not been approved by the shareholders general meeting. The biggest problem is still the dispute over the banks chairmanship.

The dispute at Eximbank erupted on March 22, 2019 after seven members of Eximbank's Board of Directors met and elected a new Chairman, Ms. Luong Thi Cam Tu, to replace Mr. Le Minh Quoc even though Quoc's term had not expired yet. Tu is a representative of NamABank, who used to be NamABank General Director. Tu joined Eximbank's Board of Directors in April 2018 at the bank's shareholders general meeting.

Quoc has filed a lawsuit to the Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Court but later withdrew the petition and resigned from the position of Eximbank Chairman. Mr. Cao Xuan Ninh was then elected as Eximbank chairman.

Meanwhile, the CEO position has been vacant for a long time. In April 2018, Mr. Nguyen Canh Vinh was appointed as the banks Deputy General Director. In May 2019, Vinh was promoted as Acting CEO of Eximbank, after the previous CEO, Mr. Le Van Quyets contract expired and was not reappointed.

Eximbank's Board of Directors issued a resolution to appoint Vinh as the CEO but the State Bank of Vietnam did not approve it, saying the resolution and the submitted documents were invalid.

On June 25, 2020, Eximbank held a meeting to elect Mr. Yasuhiro Saitoh - then holding the position of Vice Chairman - to the position of Chairman of the Board of Directors, replacing Mr. Cao Xuan Ninh who resigned.

However, before the shareholders meeting scheduled on June 30, 2020, a group of major shareholders (SMBC) requested the dismissal of Yasuhiro Saitoh. According to SMBC, this organization had terminated all legal relationships with Yasuhiro Saitoh since May 18, 2019, so he was not eligible to represent SMBC at Eximbank.

On April 13, 2021, within an hour two decisions to appoint the banks Chairman were issued, with conflicting content.

According to Resolution No. 156/2021/EIB/NQ-HQT dated April 13, Eximbank's Board of Directors approved the dismissal of Yasuhiro Saitoh from the position of Chairman of the Board of Directors. At the same time, the bank assigned Mr. Nguyen Quang Thong to temporarily hold the Chairmanship to chair the meeting of the Board of Directors on April 13, 2021 until the bank elects a new Chairman. The Board of Directors assigned Thong to sign the Resolution on the dismissal of Yasuhiro Saitoh from the Chairmanship on behalf of the Board of Directors, based on the resignation letter of Yasuhiro Saitoh dated April 6, 2021.

Accordingly, Resolution No. 156 on the dismissal of Yasuhiro Saitoh, signed by Thong, based on the vote of members of the Board of Directors at the meetings held at 10. 15am and 10.45am on April 13, 2021 was issued. But soon after that, Resolution 157 on the election of Yasuhiro Saitoh as Eximbank Chairman, signed by Yasuhiro Saitoh, based on the vote held at the meeting of the Board of Directors at 11:10 am on April 13, 2021, was issued.

V. Ha

Morgan Stanley adds names of Vietnamese banks to Frontier Market Index Many Vietnamese banks have made breakthroughs in recent times and have attracted the attention of leading financial institutions in the world.
Pham The Anh, chief economist at the Vietnam Institute for Economic Policy Research (VEPR), believes that social security support must be given to people who have had to shut down their business or have lost jobs because of lockdowns.

Pham The Anh, chief economist at the Vietnam Institute for Economic Policy Research

What do you think about the Governments latest moves in the recent Covid-19 outbreak?

The latest outbreak is more complex than the previous ones because we still cannot trace the pathogen. The virus has been spreading in many cities and provinces and we have not found the source (F0).

However, our behavior now is different from before. In previous outbreaks, we imposed lockdowns on a large scale  the whole country and the whole province of Hai Duong. But we cannot do the same this time, because lockdowns will seriously affect the national economy.

The Government is having a more appropriate response to the outbreak. Though the situation is serious, it doesnt intend to impose social distancing on a large scale, but make appropriate decisions depending on local situations and conditions.

To date, a lockdown has been imposed only in Bac Giang province. This shows the Governments efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of the pandemic to the national economy.

In fact, we have to face the fact that it is impossible to completely stamp out pathogens in society. There are still pathogens which may break out. When a new outbreak recurs, we will have to zone epicenters to stamp out the spread. This is a way to minimize possible negative impacts on the economy.

What is your prediction about the seriousness of this outbreaks impacts on the economy?

The impact on the economy seen in the indexes about growth is not too serious. This is because the biggest contribution to economic growth comes from exports, the public sector and large enterprises.

Exports are created mostly by foreign invested enterprises and industrial zones. Except for the industrial zone in Bac Giang, where many infections have been discovered, the operation in other industrial zones continues.

The impact of this outbreak has been inconsiderable and disruptions in production have not occurred. The figures about exports still sound better than those of last year.

The response to the pandemic outbreak last year caused disruptions in production and goods supply. But the Government and businesses have better responses this year.

However, this recurrence has a serious impact on peoples lives. The people and small businesses with weak resilience, especially those in lockdown areas, are suffering.

However, the value created by small and medium enterprises, or micro enterprises and household businesses, and their contribution to GDP, is not very high. Therefore, GDP wont be affected much by the outbreak.

The problem is that people now have more difficulties because they have been struggling for one year and their resilience is getting weaker.

The 6.5 percent GDP growth rate set by the Government is really ambitious and challenging. It could be difficult to reach that goal even if there was no epidemic. So, it is understandable if the target is unattainable.

In 2020, developed countries seemed to have fared worse from the pandemic than developing countries. But the opposite thing is occurring this year. Developed countries such as the US, UK and European countries have pioneered vaccination programs on a large scale, so they are coming back to normal.

The center of the pandemic has moved to developing countries. Vietnam still has stable production, so it has advantages over other countries. Our exports are still good. The US and European markets are recovering gradually after large economic packages were provided, so the demand for Vietnams goods is increasing.

Vietnams exports to the US keep increasing significantly. We have advantages in comparison with regional countries in production capacity and our goods competitiveness. Our production has not been disrupted.

Do you have any recommendations on policy solutions for economic recovery?

I believe that we should only call for economic stimulus packages to prolong resilience but not to stimulate production again.

I mean that the aim of the policies is helping enterprises prolong their resilience and give social security support to those who have shut down their business, or lost their jobs or livelihoods because of social distancing. Social security policies and subsidies to these people should be a top priority.

As for the enterprises which have lost demand, we need to help them prolong their resilience by paying old debts and easing the financial costs related to building and land rents, and help them pay workers so they dont have to lay off workers. This will allow them to resume production after the pandemic is over.

If businesses go bankrupt, when the pandemic is over and the demand for goods increases again, we will then have no enterprises to produce goods.

Social security support must reach people and businesses. And businesses that receive support have to commit not to lay off workers.

Lan Anh

Wide-ranging support ahead for economy To spur on local production and achieve its desired economic growth goal, Vietnam is to enact new financial solutions aimed to assist the business community.
The General Department of Customs (GDC) said that risks in transit services continue to exist as smugglers try to carry prohibited goods into Vietnam.

In late 2020, the Lang Son province Association of Vietnam-ASEAN Transit Goods Traders sent a dispatch to the Government and relevant ministries complaining about the administrative fines imposed by the border gate customs agency, which caused serious damages to businesses.

According to the association, since July 2018, the customs agency has been inspecting all shipments in transit.

The inspection is carried out immediately after enterprises receive goods from the transport vehicles of foreign goods owners, under seal, in the area supervised by border gate customs and witnessed and supervised by customs officers.

One inspection found only a few violations in many consignments of goods, mostly violations regarding the names and the volume of goods. In some cases, the transit goods were found with counterfeited trademarks.

Enterprises have proposed that the Government and relevant agencies exempt goods under seal from inspection. They said the inspection needs to be implemented only when there is clear evidence of violations of the laws.

However, the Ministry of Finance (MOF), in its report to the Prime Minister some days ago, said there are 129 transit trade companies with tens of thousands of containers of goods from China transiting in Vietnam before going to Laos and Cambodia a year.

In Lang Son and HCM City, customs declarations are made for 100-150 containers of transit goods to Cambodia and Laos via land border gates in Tay Ninh, Binh Phuoc, Ha Tinh, Quang Binh, Quang Tri, An Giang, Dong Thap, Kien Giang and Long An each day.



The goods are mostly consumer goods, electronics, refrigeration engineering, electronic parts, automobile parts and garments.

In Lang Son and HCM City, customs declarations are made for 100-150 containers of transit goods to Cambodia and Laos via land border gates in Tay Ninh, Binh Phuoc, Ha Tinh, Quang Binh, Quang Tri, An Giang, Dong Thap, Kien Giang and Long An each day.

The General Department of Customs said there are high risks in transit trade as prohibited goods and goods committing intellectual property infringement may be carried through Vietnamese territory, and may be bought in Vietnam instead of going to the target markets as declared.

The agency pointed out that these type of goods are displayed for sale in the open air, which are partially sourced from transit trade.

Goods in violation account for 75.8 percent

In April 2020, the General Department of Customs (GDC) told the Anti-smuggling and Investigation Department to inspect transit goods which come to Vietnam from other countries for re-export to Laos and Cambodia and vice versa.

GDC inspected four out of 129 enterprises, namely Son Ha Co Ltd, Bach Viet Lang Son Co Ltd, XNK Trade and Services Co Ltd, and Cross Border Trans JSC.

From July 13 to July 21, customs agencies inspected 132 containers of goods out of 647 containers (20 percent) and discovered 91 of 132 containers violating the laws (75.8 percent). These included 35 containers with goods counterfeiting well-known brands, and 56 containers with no declarations or with wrong declarations.

GDC emphasized that while the inspection rate was just 20 percent, the violation rate was 75.8 percent, and that counterfeited goods accounted for 38.5 percent.

The four inspected companies had violated the law in 2017-2019. They were punished for violating the laws on customs and counterfeit goods.

Citing the figures, the finance ministry emphasized that the inspection by GDC was in accordance with the laws.

However, it is difficult to handle violations. Some enterprises have appealed the punishments for the violations, saying that the punishment needs to be imposed on transit goods owners, not on enterprises that provide transit services.

GDC also said that it is difficult to examine goods. The finance ministry said that GDC should use IT, modern equipment and automatic goods classification. The classification is now made manually, which has faced complaints from enterprises.

Luong Bang

Ministry of Industry and Trade proposes unprecedented new law The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) said that, while most sub-industries are covered by laws, activities in the processing and manufacturing industry have not had specific regulations.
Having only one child or no children has not become common in Vietnam, but it can be seen clearly in some provinces and regions.

When his first daughter turned one year old, Mr. Hung, 29, told his parents who lived in the countryside: "We don't want to give birth anymore!" Surprised, his mother asked: "Why are you thinking so selfishly?"

Hung and his wife moved to Hanoi from small provinces. Before giving birth, his wife worked as an accountant. But after becoming pregnant, she quit her job to spend all of her time for the baby.

This year, their child is 2.5 years old. She still is staying at home to take care of the child because Hung is often away from home on business.

Hung said he had not thought about how many children they should have. But after his wife became pregnant, seeing her undergoing many risks during childbirth, he did not want to see his wife suffering pain and hardship again.

I don't need to have a son nor have two children. To raise a child, we must have many things, not just money. It is a matter of having time for children and the knowledge of how to raise children, Hung said.

His monthly income ranges from VND15 to VND20 million ($600-800). His wife plans to go back to work sooner or later. Thus, the couple's income is not too low to raise two children.

Now the couple is fine with one child, whether it's a boy or a girl.

It is not difficult to find couples with the same views as Hung. Most of them were born in the 1980s and 1990s, living and working in big cities.

According to a quick survey on the number of children desired by Vietnamese, conducted by the General Department of Population and Family Planning in October 2019, 10% of respondents said they wanted to have one child, while those who did not want to have children accounted for 4%. The survey was conducted online on the Gia Dinh & Xa Hoi Newspaper (Family and Society) over one month, with 11,160 votes.

The same survey was carried out in 63 provinces and cities in Vietnam, with 6,488 participants: 7% of those wanted to have one child, and 1% did not want to have a baby.

Similarly, when the survey was conducted on the website of the General Department of Population and Family Planning within two months, with 45,821 votes, the number of people who wanted to have one child accounted for 4.5%, and 1.28% did not want to have a child.

Fertility rate declines: world trend

Dr. Nguyen Dinh Cu, former director of the Institute of Population and Social Affairs, said that Vietnam has a replacement fertility rate of 2.09 children per woman. This is an ideal fertility rate level that the country has maintained since 2006.

However, according to global trends, this number is expected to fall, he said.

Having only one child or none has not become a popular trend, but this has appeared relatively clear in some provinces and regions. The current generation of women of reproductive age were generally born in the Doi Moi (reform) period. They grew up in the time of the market economy, international integration, modernization, urbanization... Those factors urge them want to develop themselves, towards wealth, towards higher quality of life. One of the solutions to have a higher quality of life is to have fewer children, Dr. Cu said.

On the macro level, low fertility rates will affect the sustainable development of the country. Labor shortage and aging population aging are the first consequences of low fertility, and then problems associated with labor import, social security and health care.

"Even when we can maintain the replacement fertility rate of two children per woman, population aging still occurs," he said.

According to the latest forecast of the General Statistics Office, the golden population period of Vietnam will last about 32 years - from 2007 to 2039. "If Vietnam does not make good use of this period, it will miss a great opportunity to become a developed country," Cu added.

Most sustainable solution: adaptation

Since 1961, Vietnam has been successful in creating policies and Communication plans on reducing fertility. But in recent years, facing a threat of population aging, policies to encourage fertility have been under consideration.

Decision 588 on "Program to adjust fertility to suit different regions and subjects by 2030" approved by the Prime Minister mentions content such as encouraging men and women to get married before 30 years old, giving birth early, and encouraging couples to have two children.

However, Dr. Nguyen Dinh Cu said that these solutions are supportive only. The government offers subsidies, but when divided per person, these are negligible compared to resources and efforts needed to take care of a child.

The most sustainable solution, according to the world's experience, is to actively adapt to a society with low fertility.

First, Vietnam must improve labor productivity, improve the quality of human resources, and apply science and technology to save human labor. Second, all socio-economic plans must take into account the prospect of a low fertility rate.

Dr. Cu said: The State needs to share the 'burden' of raising children with the people by improving the quality of the systems of education, healthcare, environmental protection, cultural development, and social security, thereby improving the quality of life of people.

These are the most effective encouragement measures besides the solutions of giving physical support and spiritual encouragement. When people's lives are improved, the pressure and anxiety about caring for and raising a child will also be lessened. Then families will have more children."

Dang Duong

Attitudes toward divorce changing in Vietnam, but prejudice persists The breaking news that American billionaire Bill Gates and his wife have plans to divorce after 27 years of living together has flooded local media and social networks in Vietnam over the past few days, overwhelming other hot issues.
He currently serves as associate superintendent and chief strategy, talent and innovation officer for the San Antonio Independent School District, where he has a record of raising achievement in the economically segregated city. He started his career as a classroom teacher in the Los Angeles Unified School District, and then moved to Texas, where he has worked in both Dallas and San Antonio.
The International Parliamentary Union (IPU) President called on all countries to make the most of the IPU, particularly in these troubled times.

It is necessary to continue to promote the partnership between the International Parliamentary Union (IPU) and regional parliamentary organisations and international organisations in preventing and settling crises or emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic, National Assembly (NA) Standing Vice Chairman Tran Thanh Man has said.

The Vietnamese delegation attending the 142nd IPU Assembly. (Photo: VNA)



Addressing the virtual opening of the 142nd IPU Assembly on May 26 (Hanoi time), which is themed Overcoming the pandemic today and building a better tomorrow: the role of parliaments, Man suggested that the IPU should call on countries with advantages in COVID-19 vaccine production to support developing and pandemic-hit countries to gain fair and timely access to vaccine sources and modern medical equipment at reasonable prices.



Besides, IPU member parliaments need to urgently complete their national policies in responding to the pandemic, promptly allocate budgets and strengthen supervision over the accountability of the governments while implementing crisis settlement programmes to go through the pandemic, he said.



The Vietnamese representative also suggested the World Health Organisation (WHO) and countries foster their partnership and collaboration in transferring vaccine production technology and training to improv COVID-19 response capacity.



Noting that COVID-19 has posed adverse impacts to socio-economic and politic situation, security and order in many countries across the world, while causing difficulties and challenges in building a peaceful, green and prosperous globe, Man shared Vietnams strategy in coping with the pandemic.



He said that right from the first days COVID-19 entered Vietnam, the country has deployed drastic, synchronous and timely measures with the engagement of the whole political system and the determination and consensus of all residents.



Vietnam has implemented the dual goals of effectively controlling the pandemic to ensure public health and recovering and boosting economic development at the same time, securing social welfare in the new normal, said Man.



It has applied the 5K message which comprises khau trang (face masks), khu khuan (disinfection), khoang cach (distancing), khong tu tap (no gatherings), and khai bao y te (health declarations), he said, affirming that the country has basically put the pandemic under good control, ensuring stability and socio-economic development and winning confidence from local residents and compliment from international friends.



In the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, the Vietnamese NA has always accompanied the Government by promptly allocating budgets to pandemic response and issuing measures and policies supporting people and enterprises, while sharing its experience in dealing with COVID-19 at multilateral inter-parliamentary forums and taking practical actions to show solidarity with parliaments of other countries such as offering them masks and medical suppplies, said Man.



In his opening remark, IPU President Duarte Pacheco said that the official opening of an IPU Assembly is a time when parliamentarians from around the world come together to share a common goal and commitment to inter-parliamentary dialogue and cooperation. This is also the moment when our values, ideas and aspirations converge into a strong impulse to strengthen peace and representative democracy, he said.



More than 3 million people have lost their lives to the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, adding that together with a climate crisis and a recession on a scale not seen in nearly a century, the pandemic has reversed some of the great progress made in human development. Decades of work has been erased in a blink of an eye, and millions of people all over the world have fallen again into extreme poverty.



Access to vaccines is too fragmented, uneven and slow, he said, underlining that over 1.32 billion vaccine doses have been given to people across the globe but much more needs to be done to bridge the wide gaps between vaccination programmes in different countries and regions.



The IPU President called on all countries to make the most of the IPU, particularly in these troubled times.



This organisation has lived through many turbulent periods in the past century but has always stood by its primary purpose of being the global organisation of national parliaments, where political dialogue, parliamentary diplomacy and cooperation can fuel the solutions for a better tomorrow, he stated.

VNA
On May 26, hundreds of doctors and nurses took samples for covid tests from more than 18,000 workers in Nui Hieu village, Quang Chau commune, Viet Yen district, Bac Giang province, Vietnams largest epidemic hotspot.

Bac Giang has 55 out of 80 more cases detected in four localities nationwide as announced by the Ministry of Health on May 26 morning. All new cases in Bac Giang were recorded at its industrial parks and in lockdown areas.

Several hours later, the Ministry announced in its 12.00am COVID-19 update that an additional 40 Vietnamese had tested positive for the SARS-CoV-2 virus during the past six hours, including up to 27 cases in Bac Giangs industrial parks.

Bac Giang is the hardest hit locality, with its tally reaching nearly 1,500 cases since the virus reocurred in late April. The Health Ministry has dispatched a contingent of experienced doctors from Da Nang, Hai Duong and Vinh Phuc to assist the province with contact tracing, extensive testing and treatment.

As the daily caseload has hit the hundreds, the Ministry decided to carry out a quick antigen testing campaign in Bac Giang, starting from May 26 in Viet Yen district, in an attempt to halt the spread of the virus.

Deputy Minister of Health Nguyen Truong Son inspects the situation in Viet Yen on May 26.

Kien Trung

620-bed field hospital set up in Bac Giang Province Bac Giang Province health authorities have established a COVID-19 field hospital with a capacity of 620 beds in the province's gymnasium.
The consistent policy of the Government is to urgently take appropriate measures to have enough vaccines as soon as possible to vaccinate the people on a large scale.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has ordered that frontline forces and workers in industrial parks will receive top priority for vaccinations, according to a Government Office notice at the latest meeting of cabinet standing members on Covid-19 epidemic prevention and control.

Workers in an industrial park in the northern province of Bac Giang  an epidemic hot spot - give samples for Covid-19 testing.

The Prime Minister praised the National Steering Committee for Covid-19 Epidemic Prevention and Control, ministries, agencies and local authorities, especially frontline forces such as health workers, soldiers, and police officers, for their efforts in epidemic fighting, contributing to the success of the general election on May 23. So far, six out of 30 Covid-19-hit provinces have had no new locally-transmitted cases in the past 14 days.

The consistent policy of the Government is to urgently take appropriate measures to have enough vaccines as soon as possible to vaccinate the people on a large scale.

The Prime Minister assigned the Ministry of Health to take full responsibility for the purchase of vaccines. The ministry was told to buy vaccines from various sources available as soon as possible, as much as possible; to adopt incentive policies to mobilize scientific and technological forces, businesses, and investors to research and produce vaccines locally; and to actively seek and receive technology transfer for domestic vaccine production.

The Ministry of Health was asked to urgently coordinate with the Ministry of Finance to establish a Covid-19 vaccine fund to call for contributions from agencies, units, localities, businesses, benefactors and donors.

The new situation, new conditions, and new requirements on epidemic prevention and control make it necessary for Vietnam to review, amend, supplement and complete processes, procedures and guidelines on epidemic prevention and control, the government's notice said.

After that, Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai signed a decision on the fund establishment.

According to the decision, the fund is set up to receive, manage, and use voluntary financial and vaccine donations and assistance from domestic and foreign organisations and individuals, along with other legal sources, for the COVID-19 vaccine procurement and import, research and production in the country, and the provision of vaccines for people.

Managed by the Ministry of Finance, the not-for-profit fund will use the mobilised capital resources for right purposes and in line with legal regulations, ensuring publicity, transparency and efficiency. It is subject to the examination, inspection, and auditing by relevant State agencies and to the supervision by the Vietnam Fatherland Front and the community.

It is assigned to coordinate with the Vietnam Fatherland Front and relevant agencies and organisations in mobilising donations and assistance for the purchase, import, research, production and use of the vaccines in line with regulations.

In related news, the Government Office has just sent a document to the ministries of Health, Finance, Defense and Public Security on preparing mobile laboratories for Covid-19 test and the application of IT solutions in epidemic fighting.

This morning, May 27, Vietnam recorded a further 25 new domestic cases of COVID-19, including 23 in Bac Giang epicenter, one in Lang Son, one imported infection which was isolated immediately after entry in Hanoi.

Vietnam has so far documented 4,621 local transmissions, and 1,490 imported cases.

The country has recorded a total of 3,051 local cases in the latest COVID-19 wave which recurred in the nation in late April.

One day earlier, 59 patients were declared free from the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, bringing the overall number of recoveries 2,853. The latest death of a 67-year-old woman confirmed the same day raised the total COVID-19 related deaths to 45.

On May 26, a total of 235 new local COVID-19 cases were posted nationwide, with Bac Giang and Bac Ninh remaining the two localities recording the highest number of infections at 121, and 91, respectively.

An additional 795 people were vaccinated against the coronavirus on May 26, raising the total number of vaccinated people in the country to 1,034,867, mainly frontline medical workers, and members of community-based anti-COVID-19 groups and the steering committees for COVID-19 prevention and control.

Bac Ninh sets up 2 more COVID-19 treatment hospitals



The authorities in the northern province of Bac Ninh, which is a current hotspot of COVID-19, has decided to establish two more hospitals that together are capable of accommodating 700 beds to treat infected people.



One of the two is placed at the health centre of Thuan Thanh district, offering 200 beds. The other with 500 beds is located at the lung hospital and the hospital for traditional medicine and rehabilitation in Bac Ninh city.



The hospitals are responsible for providing first aid, quarantine, and treatment for COVID-19 patients, thus curbing the spread of the epidemic in the community.



Earlier, Bac Ninh established two similar hospitals at the medical centres of Tien Du and Gia Binh districts with a capacity of 300 beds each.



As of 6pm on May 26, the province logged 627 COVID-19 infections, including 464 in Thuan Thanh, 66 in Bac Ninh city, 35 in Que Vo and 33 in Yen Phong. VNA

Thanh Nam

Local Nanocovax vaccine's phase 3 trial to begin next week Next week, Vietnam will start the phase 3 trial of the Vietnamese-made Nanocovax vaccine on about 13,000 volunteers.
Compared to the Southern and the Central Vietnam, the Northern region, particularly Hanoi, boasts a wide variety of dishes using Muscovy duck, from noodle dish to hot pot and stir-fry.

If youre planning a trip to Hanoi and are looking for a special dish to try, consider bun ngan (Muscovy duck noodle soup)! Its a dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and allegedly originated in Hanoi.

Have you ever heard about Muscovy duck? Its reared in many Northern areas, with the two most common types being ngan Sen, which has white feathers and black spots, and ngan Re, the one with white feathers only. Compared to duck and chicken, Muscovy duck is bigger with thin skin, less fat, firmer and leaner meat.

The broth is ultra-rich as it's simmered for hours with duck bones and meat. Photos: Thuy An

Muscovy duck is one of the foods that some people love, while others just dont get. It has a bold, deep flavor, and a strong musky scent that might be considered off-putting to some people. Thats the reason why when prepping Muscovy duck, its important to rub both the inside and outside with a bit of salt, ginger, and white wine to remove its characteristic odor.

Compared to Southern and Central Vietnam, the Northern region, particularly Hanoi, boasts a wide variety of dishes using Muscovy duck, from noodle dish to hot pot and stir-fry. Recently, ngan chay toi (pan-fried Muscovy duck with garlic) is a newly-invented Muscovy duck dish that many people, especially garlic lovers, are infatuated with. This spice is a flavor powerhouse that complements really well the strong flavor of Muscovy duck, giving it a chance to shine.

While there are many Muscovy dishes in Hanoi, the most common one that youll see people eating all the time is bun ngan. And one of the best places to enjoy this dish is Bun Ngan Nhan or Mr. Nhan's bun ngan. Bun ngan here has an incredibly rich, naturally sweet broth that has been simmered from duck meat and bones for hours. The owner, after chopping the meat off the bones for each serving, always throws the bones back into a boiling pot of broth. Imagine how rich and deep the broth becomes as its constantly brewed with bones and meat! Without a doubt, the broth is the highlight of this dish here, as many customers have to acclaim that they have never tried any broth that is as flavorful as the one at Bun Ngan Nhan.

A bowl of bun ngan consists of dried bamboo shoots, moc, slices of duck meat, and fresh cilantro.

Its topped with sauteed dried bamboo shoots, thin slices of Muscovy duck, a big piece of duck blood curd, moc, cilantro, and green onions. The dried bamboo shoots are soft and soak in all of the flavorful broth. Moc, small balls made from a combination of pork paste, chopped wood-ear mushroom, and ground pork, is well-seasoned and has a nice aroma. The duck meat is firm yet still tender. And a bowl of noodles here has so much meat that youll feel like there is no end to the meat! The duck blood curd is a nice addition as well. But if you find it too intimidating to eat, you can always order a bowl without it.

Bun Ngan Nhan also sells mien ngan (Muscovy duck vermicelli). Everything is basically the same, but instead of rice noodles, youll get vermicelli which has a thin, chewy texture. The normal bowl of bun ngan is priced at VND40,000 ($1.74), but you can upgrade to a bigger bowl with more meat for VND50,000 ($2.18). Some locals love to order the bones that are used to make the broth, too, since they mention that the meat thats still stuck on the bones is incredibly soft and rich in flavor.

Locals love savoring the duck bones, as the meat stuck on the bones are tender and have soaked in all the flavorful broth.

You can choose to sit inside the restaurant or in the courtyard. But if you decide to sit inside, youll have to order a drink. But that isnt the case if you sit outdoor.

Also, prepare to have a unique experience when eating at this shop! Bun Ngan Nhan is termed Bun Ngan Chui by the locals. Chui is a Vietnamese word that means to swear in English. Apparently, Ms. Nhan, the owner, is quite sensitive and doesnt tolerate even the slightest inaccurate orders or delays from customers. So, expect to hear her swearing a lot while standing in the long queue waiting for your turn to order.

Despite all the swearing from the owner, this place is always full of people no matter what time of the day it is. It has also in business for more than 10 years, and its popularity doesnt seem to be waning anytime soon. The locals love the generous portions of meat, the rich and delectable broth, as well as the flavorful duck meat and pork ball. So do give this dish a try if you happen to be in Hanoi!

Address: 11 Trung Yen Lane, Hang Bac Ward, Hoan Kiem District

Operating hours: 6:30 am  1:30 pm

Price: VND30,000  50,000 (USD$1.31  2.18)

Hanoitimes

Hanoi a paradise for lovers of delicious duck soup Like many Vietnamese living and working abroad, Nguyen Ngoc Lam, who lives in Denmark, dearly miss traditional dishes like bun cha, pho and bun vit mang.
With the return of COVID-19 community infections up and down the country, health authorities have once again stepped up messaging to encourage everyone in society to keep each other safe by wearing masks and other measures.
Vietnam calls for the safety and release of the Malian transitional governments leaders and officials who were arrested by the military,

Nguyen Phuong Tra, Minister Counsellor, Deputy Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the United Nations told an UN Security Council (UNSC)s video teleconference on May 26.

The meeting discussed political situation in Mali, including the arrest of the President, Prime Minister and officials of Malis transitional government by the military on May 24. Special Representative and head of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) El-Ghassim Wane was present at the event to give updates on the situation.

Vietnam is closely watching the situation in Mali and deeply concerned over the arrest, she said, noting that this will threaten the transition process in the African country, destablise the situation there and hamper the implementation of the 2015 Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali.



Vietnam urges parties concerned to exercise restraint and resolve differences through dialogue and consultation and to re-establish the constitutional order, she said, expecting they will soon resume the transition process for the long-term benefit of Malian people.



Vietnam also reaffirms its support to reconciliation efforts by the international community, such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and supports efforts by the MINUSMA in performing its mission in the African country, she continued.



She went on to call on the international community to continue providing relief for Malian people and addressing humanitarian challenges there.

VNA
Dealing with environmental impact and restoring the environment after conflicts would contribute to reconstruction, helping civilians soon stabilise their lives, and to build sustainable peace,

Ambassador Dang Dinh Quy, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the United Nations, said on May 26.

The discussion, co-organised by the Vietnamese permanent mission to the UN and their counterparts from Niger, Costa Rica, Belgium and Switzerland, the UN Environment Programme and PAX, takes place within the framework of the Protection of Civilians (PoC) Week 2021. (Photo: VNA)



Speaking at an online discussion themed Protecting the environment is protecting civilians, Quy said in April when Vietnam served as President of the UN Security Council (UNSC), the council has agreed to approve Resolution No. 2573 on Protection of Objects Indispensable to the Survival of the Civilian Population, which has affirmed its strong commitment to protecting civilians and promoting the observance of the international humanitarian law.



He said agent orange (AO)/dioxin has caused serious consequences in Vietnam, adding that up to 3 million Vietnamese are now AO victims, and hundreds of thousands of hectares of land are contaminated with the chemical toxin.



It takes much time and great resources to handle AO consequences, the ambassador stressed.



Quy used the occasion to thank UN member countries and organisations, and the international community for their support to Vietnam in dioxin remediation and to AO victims.



Christopher Harland, Legal Advisor at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), cited the international humanitarian law as saying that protecting the environment is protecting civilians.



Wim Zwijnenburg, an expert from the Dutch peace organisation PAX, said the impacts of environmental degradation, hunger caused by conflicts, and the climate crisis have seriously affected civilians.



Dominick de Waal, a World Bank expert, suggested coordinating actions between development and humanitarian agencies in increasing resilience of civilians.



The discussion, co-organised by the Vietnamese permanent mission to the UN and their counterparts from Niger, Costa Rica, Belgium and Switzerland, the UN Environment Programme and PAX, took place within the framework of the Protection of Civilians (PoC) Week 2021.



This was the second time Vietnam had co-organised a side event on such topic.

VNA

Vietnam voices concerns over escalating violence in Yemen Ambassador Dang Dinh Quy, head of the Vietnamese Mission to the UN, joined speakers in voicing concerns about military escalations and cross-border fighting in Yemen, while attending a videoconference of the UN Security Council on April 15.
Neill found that Freuds potential conflict in having to choose between Clays and her former clients interests was not significant.

Second, there were less serious means that could have been employed that would have adequately protected the interests of both the government and Freuds former client, according to the opinion.

Also, the opinion states, the potential content of Freuds former clients testimony was arguable cumulative of other testimony and was not necessary to the states case apart from the states use of it to disqualify Freud just prior to trial.

This is further demonstrated by the fact that the state ultimately did not call (Freuds client) as a witness in this case, according to the opinion.

James Spears, a four-time felon, testified at Clays trial that Clay was angry that Pittman robbed him and that Clay offered him $5,000 to kill Pittman. Spears said he was arrested and jailed soon after Clay made the offer and he was not able to take him up on it.

Later, Spears told the jury, he and Spratt were in jail together and Spratt told him that Clay offered to pay Spratt $15,000 to kill Pittman. Spratt said Clay still owed him $5,000 for the murder.

Spratt, 32, also is charged with capital murder. His case remains pending in 19th State District Court.

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Everyone, anecdotally, knows someone trying to buy a home in McLennan County and unable to do so because of how high demand is and how low supply is right now, Borderud said. And with the hotels coming online, we feel like short-term rentals are unnecessarily, our current short-term rental ordinance is unnecessarily prioritizing short-term guests over long-term residents.

He said the current version of the ordinance made more sense when Waco had more tourists than local hotels could accommodate, but that is not the case anymore.

Type II short-term rentals would no longer be allowed in parts of Waco zoned R-E, R-1A, R-1B and R-1C. Type III rentals would no longer be allowed in R-3A, R-3B, R-3C, R-3D, R-3E, O-2,O-3 and C-1. Mixed use areas like those near Magnolia Market at the Silos would not be affected.

Members of the public who want to support or oppose the item during Thursdays public hearing should submit their comments or register to speak at waco-texas.com/councilspeaker.asp, by email at CSO@wacotx.gov or by by calling 254-750-5750. Speakers must be registered by 1:30 p.m. Thursday. The meetings will be broadcast live at wccc.tv and on the citys cable channel.
LEESBURG, Fla. (AP)  A firefighting helicopter carrying four people on a training exercise crashed near an airport in central Florida, killing all aboard.

The helicopter crashed into a marsh near Leesburg International Airport around 4 p.m. Tuesday, the Federal Aviation Administration said in a news release.

One body was recovered Tuesday night, and police officials on Wednesday confirmed that they also had found the bodies of the three others. The bodies were taken to a medical examiner's office where they will be positively identified.

A search and rescue effort began immediately after the crash, but the crash site couldn't be cleared because of hazards in the area, the Leesburg Police Department said in a news release Wednesday.

We are deeply saddened by this tragedy within our wildland firefighting family, said Florida Forest Service director Erin Albury. These firefighters put themselves on the line to serve and protect the lives of others."

The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board issued separate news releases saying they will investigate.

The aircraft belonged to Brainerd Helicopters Inc./Firehawk Helicopters, located at Leesburg International Airport, the police department release said.
The members of the class are given diplomas and sworn in as Navy Ensigns or Marine Corps 2nd Lieutenants. After their oath of office and cheers, the graduates toss their midshipman caps into the air. Spectators traditionally take them as mementos from the graduation.
Alabama lawmakers in 2019 approved several initiatives to try to boost reading scores. Beginning in the 2021-22 school year, third graders would be required to meet reading benchmarks before moving to the fourth grade. Students would have to make a minimum score on a reading assessment or demonstrate mastery of all third grade state reading standards as evidenced by a student reading portfolio.

The vetoed bill by Sen. Rodger Smitherman, a Democrat from Birmingham, would have pushed back the promotion requirement from the 2021-22 school year to the 2023-24 school year.

Supporters of a delay argue it will be unfair to force the requirement on students who were out of the traditional classroom for long stretches during the pandemic.

The Alabama Education Association, the state lobby representing public school employees, said Wednesday that teachers have called and emailed asking Ivey to sign the bill and approve the delay. The group said many Alabama teachers have not received the training required under the 2019 law.

Students also need more time to make up for learning loss. It is not feasible to implement the law as it currently stands while students and educators are trying to recover from this unprecedented school year, the AEA said in a statement on the legislation.
The International Criminal Court has launched an investigation into possible war crimes by both Hamas and Israel  including the possibility of disproportionate force by Israel and indiscriminate rocket fire by Hamas.

Israeli officials say any civilian casualties are unintended and that the army takes great effort to avoid them. They accuse Hamas of putting civilians in danger by launching rockets from residential areas and inviting Israeli reprisals. They also note that Hamas rockets are fired indiscriminately toward Israeli population centers.

During the latest round of fighting, Israel said it targeted only Hamas military infrastructure and accused the group of taking shelter in residential areas and digging tunnels beneath houses. Some 1,000 buildings, including four high-rise towers, were destroyed, according to U.N. estimates. Israel says the buildings were either used as militant command centers or used to hide tunnels.

Sinwar denied the Israeli claims. It is lying when it says there are military targets in these areas or under the ground, he said.

One of the high-rise buildings hit by Israel housed The Associated Press' offices in Gaza. Israel has said Hamas military intelligence used the building, though it has not publicly presented any evidence backing up the claim.
Enter Robert Jeffress, pastor of First Baptist Dallas, and his criticism of Baylor University . Jeffress is criticizing Baylor for calling itself Christian and somewhat belatedly reaching out to LGBTQ people to make them feel more accepted as students at Baylor. This does not conform to his self-proclaimed opinion of what a Christian should believe or what it should do. He is not so much concerned about Baylors policy as he is concerned that Baylor may be misusing his dog whistle to entice students to enroll at Baylor. He has a point. Baylors well-documented checkered past and its continued claiming of a religious exemption from anti-discrimination laws could easily confuse people into thinking that Baylor is also misusing its Christian label. They might question whether Baylor is really sincere about its changed attitude.

Baylor needs to do some serious soul-searching about exactly what it means to be a Christian university in todays pluralistic world. Baylor should consider whether its continued description of itself as a Christian university in todays hyperpartisan environment serves any useful purpose. Baylor is naive to believe that calling itself Christian doesnt carry with it negative connotations. Baylor needs to convey to the world, clearly and precisely, who it is and what it believes. As a self-described Christian university, Baylor still claims the right to a religious exemption from laws that the rest of us have to follow. Baylor claims to support the biblical interpretation of marriage as between one man and one woman. Fine. But what business is it of an academic institution of higher learning to tell its adult students and faculty who they can love and legally marry? The days of covering up and deliberate obfuscation are over. You cannot profess one thing and practice something different. Christians should never want to have it both ways. Jesus didnt and neither should his followers.
Recommended by: Kimber, South Waco Library

Everything is Spiritual: Making Your Way in a Turbulent World

By Rob Bell

In his newest book, Rob Bell takes his readers on a journey of exploring our innermost self by relating it to the vast universe around us. He explains that there is something bigger going on in the universe and we are a part of it, in more ways than we realize.

Why recommended: This book changed my thinking in regards to my faith, my relationships with people, and my own inner sense of self. I felt so much joy after completing this book, and immediately read it again, and recommended it to everyone I knew!

Recommended by: Bradyn, Central Library

Futureproof: 9 Rules for Humans in the Age of Automation

By Kevin Roose
Chennault won wide acclaim for leading attacks against Japan while America still recovered from the initial attacks.

With the success of the Flying Tigers, the Army absorbed the entire group in April 1942, promoting Chennault to brigadier general. Most of what had been the Flying Tigers became the Fourteenth Air Force, expanded, and maintained the high aerial victory rates.

However, Chennault continued to argue with his superiors over policies and tactics. His forces undertook tasks from air support for Chinese forces to preparations for the Allied invasion of Burma. In July 1945, he was reassigned to Washington, D.C. He retired from the service a second time that October.

Health Problems

He returned to China in 1946 and served four years as president of Civil Air Transport before returning to Louisiana. He was diagnosed with lung cancer in 1957. He was a heavy smoker, and little could be done for his type of cancer at the time.
ASHLAND  The Ashland City Pool was closed last year because of the pandemic. This year, the pool is threatened by a shortage of lifeguards.

At the Ashland City Council meeting last Thursday, City Administrator Jessica Quady told the council that they have hired a pool manager and only two lifeguards for the summer pool season.

We cant run the pool for regular hours on that, she said.

Because of the lack of employees, the pool will likely be open fewer hours this summer, the city administrator said. And if just one lifeguard leaves, the pool could be shut down altogether, she added.

Because of the situation, Quady asked the council to decide if they should sell season passes. The city normally charges $100 for families, $60 for youth age 16 and under and $75 for adults for a season pass. Daycare season passes range from $125 to $225, depending on the number of children. A daily pass is $2.50 for a child or senior citizen and $3.50 for an adult.

Quady said the concern is that people will not get their moneys worth if they buy a season pass at the regular price and the pool is not open the regular amount of hours that are normally scheduled during the summer.
JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  Mississippis top elections official said Thursday that he will not ask the state Supreme Court to reconsider its ruling that invalidated the states initiative process and overturned a medical marijuana initiative that voters approved in November.

Secretary of State Michael Watson said that, instead, he wants Gov. Tate Reeves to call legislators into special session to revive both issues. Reeves has not said whether he will do so. Both men are Republicans.

In a May 14 ruling, a majority of justices said the medical marijuana proposal was not properly on the ballot because Mississippi's initiative process is outdated and unworkable.

Watson said in a statement Thursday that based on the 6-3 majority and the history that justices cited, he believes there's little chance they would reverse course.

Rather than giving a sense of false hope and spending taxpayer dollars to no avail, I strongly encourage the governor to reconvene the Legislature in an effort to quickly preserve the will of Mississippians on a few important issues, Watson said.
Michael is no fan of roundabouts, and doesn't want them on included on a reconstructed Main Street. He is open to the three-lane complete streets model. He like to take a look at the city's contract on animal control services. And he's opposed to routing development proposals through a design review committee made up of city staff rather than the Planning and Zoning Commission.

"I'm not for more bureaucracy and government overreach, but I still think it's important that it needs to go before (planning and zoning), rather than delegate it," he said.

In September 2019, Michael filmed an encounter he had with state Sen. Eric Giddens and his wife, who were at a Peet Junior High event put on by the school's LGBT group Difference. The students and parents were handing out doughnuts and rainbow stickers outside the school for a "kindness event."

In the video, which Michael posted online, he told Giddens "its not OK to push your political agenda here." He said the backlash to the video led to calls to the Waterloo police chief, as Michael was still on the force at the time.

"It was twisted into us being anti-gay, which couldn't be further from the truth," Michael said. He said the event was "inappropriate. It's propaganda, and you don't need propaganda on school grounds."
To watch them literally come from nothing and then make something out of themselves, I could literally cry. Its a huge eye-opener for me. We have to be so thankful for what we have, and I feel like these days were missing the point of things, Parvez said.

His experience led Osmicevic to give back to his community in the Cedar Valley.

Its not easy to come here and start with nothing. Its his way of thanking everybody for their service, for being here, for what they do. We all matter, and he highlights that. Thats his thing, Parvez said.

With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic last year, Mersims food truck began offering free meals every day for several months. Each day they served between 150 and 300 meals.

Its a shame to throw food away. Its heartbreaking. If theres a way to help somebody with even a meal, it means so much, Parvez said.

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Mersims still fights food insecurity locally by offering free fresh meals daily from noon to 1 p.m. for those in need.

There is always a chair at the table for you. Hes very welcoming, Parvez said of her stepfather.
They didnt even serve the food that I want to have. And when they did, I would have to use their caterer who is not seasoned or experienced in the food of my people. They would have unseasoned greens that my guests would not eat, she recalled, adding that racist dress codes also kept her and her friends away from marquee venues throughout the region.
I was pretty honored to get the invite. I built this truck myself. Theres really not much that is technically stock about the truck any longer. Its about four inches off the ground, and it has a 69 Camaro front suspension fabricated into it. And you cant miss that color, he said.

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Staging is under the U.S. Highway 218 overpass. The cruise starts at City Hall on Mulberry Street. Then the route follows Fourth Street across the Cedar River to Bluff Street, Bluff Street to Park Avenue, Park Avenue to Mulberry Street and Mulberry Street back to Fourth Street.

Food trucks will be set up along the route, and downtown restaurants, bars and shops will be open for business.

Events like this are good for the community. It brings people downtown so they can see what has been happening. There have been some good, positive changes, and the cruise is a good chance to show them off, Koch explained.

Enthusiasm is equally high for the Fridays Show and Shine from 5 to 9 p.m. at the National Cattle Congress grounds. Admission is free.
Brown said that Bahena Rivera also had a sexual motive, noting that Tibbetts was partially naked with her legs spread when her body was found.

Bahena Rivera knew for five weeks where he had hidden Tibbetts body under corn stalks in a remote area but stayed quiet as investigators worked long hours to find out what had caused the sweet young woman to disappear, Brown said. He later led them to the body in the dark and confessed to the crime, he said.

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Bahena Riveras defense lawyer, Chad Frese, told jurors that the confession was false and coerced and that prosecutors failed to prove that it was his client who stabbed Tibbetts to death. He noted that they never found a murder weapon or produced any witnesses showing exactly where she was killed, despite having unlimited resources to pursue the highly publicized case.

Frese said Bahena Rivera was not a monster, had no history of violence and worked to avoid police, given that he had moved to the country illegally from Mexico as a teenager. He said it made no sense that his client would be brazen enough to pick up a woman, abduct her and maybe kill her in a span of 10 to 20 minutes.

Folks this was planned, not by him but by someone else, Frese said.
DES MOINES  State lawmakers approved nearly 200 pieces of legislation during the recently concluded 2021 session of the Iowa Legislature.

Here are some of those bills that figure to have the most significant impacts on Iowans. All of these bills have been passed by the Iowa Legislature; some have been signed into law by Gov. Kim Reynolds, while others await her decision.

Permit-less carry

What the bill does: Eliminates the requirement that Iowans obtain a permit to acquire or carry firearms.

What they said: Currently, whether we want to admit it or not, our system of permits is one of mistrust. That means you can exercise a fundamental right but you must prove yourself not guilty in advance.  Rep. Jason Schultz, R-Schleswig

Status: House File 756 https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=89&ba=hf756 was signed into law April 2.

Drivers education
Imagine you are flying over Europe in a European air carrier on your way home from a Greek vacation in the post-coronavirus era.

Suddenly, your plane does a 180-degree turn and lands in Minsk, Belarus. You see from your window that it is being escorted by a MiG-29 fighter jet. You are held for seven hours at the Minsk airport, while an exiled Belarusian dissident and his girlfriend are seized from among the passengers and hustled off by security police.

This act of air piracy was not a movie plot or the work of Mideast terrorists. It took place Saturday, when an Irish-owned Ryanair passenger jet flying from Greece to Lithuania was forced  on direct orders from Belarusian strongman President Alexander Lukashenko  to land in Minsk as it crossed through Belarusian airspace. The goal was to kidnap prominent Belarusian journalist Raman Pratasevich, 26, who has been living in exile in Lithuania and was flying home.

In other words, Lukashenko thinks he can carry out a political hijacking in a European country. And neighboring Russia is openly supporting this crime.
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With a unique and individualized approach to legal education, Willamette Law aims to graduate students who are ready to practice law and be leaders in the field. A new seminar course, Lawyers & Leadership, taught by Dean Brian Gallini and Dean Emeritus Symeon Symeonides, welcomed a small group of students and distinguished alumni this spring.

Willamette Law is one of the few law schools in the country teaching a course like this. The courses goal was to facilitate conversations designed to prepare students to become leaders of organizations and embark on paths of personal leadership development.

Our students often take on leadership roles in law firms, government, nonprofit business settings, and political, social and educational organizations, Gallini explains. Yet many of our students graduate without studying methods of effective leadership or assessing their leadership characteristics and styles. We want to change that.

Because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the course was taught virtually over Zoom. Over 13 weeks of class, a number of alumni and guests from varying occupations joined the students to facilitate conversations about their own leadership styles as they related to distinct class topics. Discussions included relationship and culture building, grit, diversity, equity, justice, engagement, dealing with confrontation and more.

Dean Emeritus Symenon Symeonides, Dean Brian Gallini and Justice Faith Ireland speaking at one of the classes in the Lawyers and Leadership course.

Students were encouraged to come to class with curiosity and authenticity to craft and solidify their leadership styles over the course of the semester. The course capstone project required students to complete a paper discussing each students individual leadership philosophies as informed by their class journey and supporting literature.

Several students commented about how the class enabled them to learn more about their classmates as they shared vulnerable, personal experiences. After finishing the class, Eric Seepe JD21 says it should be required of all law students.

The lectures and atmosphere of each class were invigorating and provided me an opportunity to truly know, and understand, many in my cohort who I had not studied with, let alone met in person due to COVID, Seepe says. Listening to stories of adversity, triumph and frustration is the meat of lawyering, but also, central to leading and being a fulfilled person.

Emily Henderson JD22 commented that the course gave her trust-building, growth skills, [and] connection with new classmates, alongside the constant challenge to reframe pressure into opportunity. In sum, she explains, Walking away from this class, I have a better understanding of what it takes to be a leader in the legal field.

Gallini says the class was a good reminder of the full spectrum of challenges that leaders face in everyday situations.

By listening to and learning from leaders who graduated from Willamette Law, just like they will, students gained a greater understanding of the complex issues facing todays managers and influencers, Gallini says. I am confident they are better prepared to take on leadership roles in law school and beyond.
Lubbock, TX (79423)

Today

Mainly sunny to start, then a few afternoon clouds. Hot. High 98F. Winds E at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 70F. Winds E at 10 to 20 mph.


Chairman's Address to Shareholders

Sydney, May 27, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - By any measure this has been an exciting year, with major developments for Empire Energy Group Ltd ( ASX:EEG ) ( OTCMKTS:EEGUF ) through a period of volatile economic conditions and oil prices.Recent events in the Australian energy markets highlight the critical role for gas in stabilising the electricity system, its dependent industries and consumers. The power failures this last week at Callide in Queensland and inter alia Liddell in New South Wales impacting many households and putting at risk the Tomago Aluminium Smelter make this all too clear.The Beetaloo and McArthur Basins now loom as critical factors in the changing national power system and Empire is moving towards becoming a key contributor as a producer of gas and liquids in the Beetaloo Sub-basin in the Northern Territory. To this end, during the year the Company has expanded its:o Gas and liquid resources;o Capital base and team; ando Leases in the Beetaloo.This progress has been reinforced by:- Announced developments including plans of our neighbours Santos and Origin;- Australian Government policies for a gas fired economic recovery and funding commitments to expand and underpin the programs of Empire and others in the Beetaloo Sub-basin; and- Encouragement for these steps by the Northern Territory and Australian Governments through plans for infrastructure to bring gas to markets in Asia and the Southern States while supporting petrochemical manufacturing ambitions in Darwin.Having regard for the complexities and leadership in the shale gas industry and the implications for developers and the wider economy, the Empire team engaged world class operators in Schlumberger, Halliburton and inGauge Energy for the drilling of the Carpentaria-1 well and testing of the gas and liquid bearing Velkerri shale.Lessons learned from a fragmented approach to gas field development, particularly in Queensland, have focused our attention on the potential for aggregation and scale in the Beetaloo and greater McArthur Basin. This led us to what we consider will be the transformational acquisition of Pangaea Resources and EMG Northern Territory with its 14.3 million acres of prospective leases near those of Empire and prospective and contingent resources which in addition to those of Empire's resources total 42 TCF of gas and 791 million barrels of liquids.Beyond the exploration and development plans for the Empire and Pangaea properties, with their proximity to gas pipelines, the objective of the Company is to bring these elements together in the next 3 years and move into sustainable production of gas and liquids and cashflows. Managing Director, Alex Underwood, will expand on this in his presentation.Meanwhile, we continue to place major importance on our contribution through environmental and social responsibilities, particularly through all our dealings with Northern Territory and Australian governments, contractors, and more particularly pastoralists and traditional owners with whom we work continually on our plans and their best interests.Let me thank our retired Board colleague and fellow shareholder John Gerahty for his real contribution to bringing the Company to its present position. I also welcome to the Board Lou Rozman whose wide experience in resources development includes gas projects in the Bowen Basin in Queensland.Further to the completion of the Pangaea Resources transaction after this meeting, we look forward to Paul Fudge and Jacqui Clarke, with their considerable experience in the industry in Australia, joining our Board.We wouldn't be appreciating the substance and position of Empire today and anticipating its growth ahead without the skills and application of Alex Underwood and his team. Your Board thanks them and all our shareholders for their commitment to our progress and achievements to date.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.
If the measure passes, it wouldnt be the first time Baltimore has divested from specific investments for political reasons. In the 1980s, the council directed the city to divest from South Africa due to its apartheid regime. The city has also divested from Sudanese companies in protest of the genocide in Darfur in the mid-2000s.


Mt Stirling Interim Mineral Resource Estimate Update

Perth, May 27, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Torian Resources Limited ( ASX:TNR ) announces the Mt Stirling Interim Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) increases by 200% to 2.05M tonnes @ 1.54 g/t Au for 102,000 ounces including 20,000 Indicated ounces from surface (using a 0.5 g/t gold cut-off) (Table 1*)Highlights:- Two further resource upgrades at the Mt Stirling Gold Project are anticipated before the end of the year- Mineral domains such as the Hanging Wall Zone lower segments, parts of the Viserion Zone, and other mineral zones have not yet been included in the Interim MRE Update due to some sparse drill spacing and mineralised sample assays yet to be received and reported which may confirm continuity of further mineralised zones between drill holes and sections- Only 740m of strike incorporated into MRE from a total interpreted 1.160km strike of the Mt Stirling gold system with Mt Stirling Main Zone; Hanging Wall, Viserion lodes, and multiple eastern gold mineralised zones all remaining open along strike and down-dip- A significant ~500m strike (>10ppm and up to 125ppm) arsenic surface anomaly has been discovered over Hydra mineralisation 1.25 km further along strike to the NW of Viserion and is likely a surface expression of the Mt Stirling gold system- Significant arsenic anomalies have also been defined (pXRF) ~200m SE and ~500m NW of Interim Resource Estimate boundary, implying continuity of the gold system to both the SE & NW- Excellent Open pit potential at Mt Stirling due to the good continuity of mineralisation converted to Indicated category- The Mt Stirling Gold System footprint continues to track on par and is consistent with regional significant discoveries, e.g. St Barbara's ( ASX:SBM ) 4.8Moz Gwalia Mine and Northern Star's ( ASX:NST ) 3.8Moz Thunderbox Mine, with the Mt Stirling gold system remaining open in all directions- Stirling Well Phase 2 drilling has been completed with 17 drill holes for 2,618m drilled which will be incorporated into the JORC resource estimate update in early Q3 2021, which may coincide with a further Mt Stirling Resource Estimate Update- Mt Stirling Regional targeting has identified numerous Priority 1 and Priority 2 targets along four key structural corridors; Viserion Shear (3.4km); Wonambi Shear (2.2km); Ursus Fault (2.5km) and Blue Jacket (2.2km) for immediate follow-up exploration including drilling- Torian is now fully funded to continue its 50,000m drilling campaign in 2021Torian's Executive Director Mr Peretz Schapiro said "The release of our interim resource is a great first step for our company as it gives us excellent fundamental backing as we continue to move ahead to prove up further ounces at Mt Stirling in the coming weeks and months.As can be seen from the long section and plan view (Figures 1 and 2 respectively*) much of the Mt Stirling Gold System has not been included in this resource estimate including segments of higher-grade zones of the Hanging Wall and upper and lower Viserion. This leaves us with tremendous upside as we will look to further drill out those areas so that they are included in our next resource estimate later in the year.We will also look to further prove up the width of the Mt Stirling Gold System as the recently discovered eastern zones were also not included in the interim resource estimate. Importantly, converting those discoveries into resource tonnes and ounces will help add width to a potential open pit mining operation.The Mt Stirling gold system continues to remain open in all directions. And we continue to be encouraged by significant arsenic anomalies (pXRF; Figure 3*) including the Hydra surface expression some 1.2km NW and further significantly anomalous zones just 500m to the NW of Viserion, and to date, arsenic anomalies have correlated with gold mineralisation.Moving forward, following a review of the resource modelling it is clear that we will get our biggest bang for exploration buck by focusing on shallower drilling. Not only is this where we are currently getting most of our ounces from, shallower mineralisation is cheaper to explore and more economical to mine. Speaking of costs, the recent acquisition of the Tarmoola Station will also help lower our discovery cost per ounce.Whilst our immediate focus is to continue our extensive and systematic exploration program at Mt Stirling, we will also begin putting initial steps in place with regards to a mining operation by commissioning a Mine Optimisation study, as well as conducting metallurgical testing and undertaking an environmental study.The ongoing drilling at Mt Stirling, an exploration program at the green fields at Diorite to commence in coming weeks, a resource estimate due from Stirling Well in Q3 and an updated resource estimate from Mt Stirling later in the year will continue to generate strong news flow for our company, as we look to set ourselves up for long term success."*To view tables and figures, please visit:About Torian Resources Limited

Torian Resources Ltd (ASX:TNR) is a gold exploration and development company with an extensive and strategic land holding comprising eight projects and over 400km2 of tenure in the Goldfields Region of Western Australia.

Torian's flagship project, Zuleika, is located along the world-class Zuleika Shear. The Zuleika Shear is the fourth largest gold producing region in Australia and consistently produces some of the country's highest grade and lowest cost gold mines. Torian's Zuleika project lies north and partly along strike of several major gold deposits including Northern Star's (ASX:NST) 7.0Moz East Kundana Joint Venture and Evolutions (ASX:EVN) 1.8Moz Frogs Legs and White Foil deposits.

Torian's other projects include the strategically located Mt Stirling and Malcolm Projects in the Leonora region (near Red 5's King of the Hills Project), where it recently completed updated Mineral Resource Estimates and preliminary scoping studies, and a suite of other projects in the Kalgoorlie region including Credo Well JV Zuleika JV, Bonnie Vale, Gibraltar and Mount Monger/Wombola.
The U.S. attorneys office in Baltimore charged 73 gun possession cases in federal court last year, Lenzner said. As of April 30, the office has charged 11 gun cases in federal court this year. The federal grand jury met periodically last year, but did not do so in early 2021 because of the coronavirus.
Instagram/WENN/Instar Celebrity

The 'Real Housewives of Miami' alum previously opened up about the rift between her and Kim on the 'Hollywood Raw' podcast where she alluded that Kanye was the reason for it.

May 27, 2021

AceShowbiz - Larsa Pippen and Kim Kardashian may work on their relationship now that Kim is no longer with Kanye West. If a new report is to be believed, the ex-wife of Scottie Pippen wants to mend her friendship with the "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" star following their apparent fallout due to the rapper.

"Larsa feels like -- and hopes -- her friendship with Kim will be back to normal sooner or later, especially now that Kanye's out of the picture," a source claims to Us Weekly. The insider also notes that it won't be hard for them to see each other since Larsa is in Miami while Kim resides in Los Angeles.

Of their relationship, the source shares that the 46-year-old former "The Real Housewives of Miami" star "never really had a falling out" with Kim. The source adds that "Kanye was the problem" between Larsa and the SKIMS founder.

After she spoke against the Kardashians in a viral interview, Larsa allegedly remains "friends" with people who are close with the famous clan including Scott Disick. "She still hangs out with people close to Kim," says the insider.

Back in April 2020, people speculated that Kim and Larsa fell out as they noticed that they had unfollowed each other on Instagram. Fueling the speculations, Larsa also unfollowed Kim's sisters Kourtney Kardashian and Khloe Kardashian. She also celebrated her birthday that year without the Kardashian sisters.

Later in November, Larsa opened up about the rift between her and Kim during her appearance on the Hollywood Raw podcast where she alluded that Kanye was the reason for the fallout. "If Kanye feels like him and Kim are better without me, then let them be without me. I'm OK with that.  I will survive," Larsa said at the time. "I want everyone to be happy!"
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The actor, who portrayed kid drummer Freddy 'Spazzy McGee' Jones in the 2003 film, passed away at the age of 32 after being hit by a car while riding a bike.

May 27, 2021

AceShowbiz - Jack Black is mourning the death of his "School of Rock" co-star. Upon learning that Kevin Clark died at the age of 32 after being hit by a car while riding a bike, the Dewey Finnn depicter in the 2003 movie said he was "heartbroken" by Kevin's passing.

On Wednesday, May 26, the 51-year-old actor unveiled some pictures of him with the late drummer on Instagram. He captioned it, "Devastating news. Kevin is gone. Way too soon. Beautiful soul. So many great memories. Heartbroken. Sending love to his family and the whole 'School of Rock' community."

Also offering tribute to Kevin was Rivkah Reyes. Sharing a photo of the two on set, the kid bassist Katie depicter wrote, "we spoke yesterday about him being on an episode of where are we now. i know it would've been chaotic and hilarious and so full of love and hyping each other up because that's how our friendship always has been."

"i'm absolutely heartbroken. kev was my first friend on set. we instantly connected over being jews from chicago," she continued. "i'm so sorry to his beautiful mom allison, his siblings nicole and cary, and to everyone who experienced his friendship and loving heart. i miss him so much. i am so grateful that my fellow cast mates, including jables, have been able to support each other through this day. we are a strong, loving family. love you forever, spaz."

Kevin was struck by a Hyundai Sonata at 1.20 A.M. on Wednesday when he was riding his bicycle in the Chicago neighborhood of Avondale. Chicago Sun-Times reported that he was rushed to Illinois Masonic Medical Center. Unfortunately at 2.04 A.M., he was declared dead. TMZ claimed a 20-year-old woman who was driving the car was not arrested, but she was issued several citations.

"School of Rock" was Kevin's only film credit. He scored a role in the movie at the age 12 because he could actually play the drums. His mother Allison Clark told the Sun-Times that his most recent project was the band Jess Bess and the Intentions, which had its first show over the past weekend on the North Shore.

"He told his bandmates just yesterday, 'You know, this is finally the life I want to live. And we're going to make it,' " Allison quoted his son as saying. " 'You're my musical family - my family - and we're all going to make it.' "
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The 'A Touch of Class' star has been presented with the prestigious Richard Harris Award by 'The Crown' actor Josh O'Connor at the British Independent Film Awards.

May 27, 2021

AceShowbiz - Beloved actress Glenda Jackson has been feted with the prestigious Richard Harris Award by officials at the British Independent Film Awards.

The "A Touch of Class" star was announced as the recipient of the 2020 honour, which recognises an actor's outstanding contribution to the British film industry, on Wednesday, May 26, when she was virtually presented with the prize by "The Crown" actor Josh O'Connor, her co-star in upcoming film "Mothering Sunday".

A statement released by BIFA bosses reads, "Glenda Jackson is a pioneer of stage and screen whose choice of roles has often challenged and changed the narrative around both class and female representation."

"Her incredible body of work has spanned many genres and generations and she remains, to this day, one of the U.K.'s most talented and beloved thespians."

The accolade is named after late acting great Harris, who shared the screen with a young Jackson in 1963 film "This Sporting Life".

"I was very surprised to receive this award; it's very kind of BIFA!" Jackson smiled.

Previous honourees include Judi Dench, Vanessa Redgrave, Daniel Day-Lewis, Emma Thompson, and John Hurt.

The news of Jackson's prize emerges three months after the 2020 BIFAs were held virtually due to COVID concerns.

A two-time Oscar winner, Jackson only recently returned to acting following a 25-year break to enter politics as a member of parliament for the Labour Party.

She has since won acclaim for her theatre work in a 2016 West End production of "King Lear", which earned her an Olivier Award nomination, and for her 2018 role in Broadway's "Three Tall Women", which landed her a Tony Award.

Jackson was also hailed in 2019 for TV movie "Elizabeth Is Missing", which won her an International Emmy Award and a BAFTA TV Award.
Investigators said several people were in the home watching TV and playing games throughout the night before a 37-year-old man from Ridgely, Maryland, man became enraged and attacked the other occupants with a knife. Police said one of the stabbing victims grabbed a shotgun and shot the attacker in the leg, fatally wounding him.
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'We look forward to sharing incredible memories with our festival attendees and the city of Philadelphia,' declares the husband of Beyonce in a statement about the festival's return.

May 27, 2021

AceShowbiz - Jay-Z is bringing his "Made in America" festival back to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for its 10th anniversary.

The rap mogul canceled last year's (2020) event due to the COVID pandemic, but the festival will be back for America's Labor Day weekend at the beginning of September.

"We are thrilled to announce 'Made in America 2021' on the legendary Benjamin Franklin Parkway," Jay-Z says in a statement. "This year will be like no other, as 'Made In America' celebrates 10 years of music history making moments."

"The artists' performances will be even bigger and Cause Village will host a wider range of amazing philanthropic organizations," the husband of Beyonce Knowles continued. "We look forward to sharing incredible memories with our festival attendees and the city of Philadelphia."

About the return of the festival, Mayor Jim Kenney said in a statement, "The City of Philadelphia is very excited for the return of 'Made in America' festival, and today's announcement shows that after more than 15 months of responding to the pandemic, our city is on a path towards recovery and a return to the things we've missed - like live shows!"

Kenney added, "Over the last ten years, Made in America has become one of Philadelphia's iconic events and we look forward to working with Roc Nation, Live Nation, and other partners to plan and execute a safe, successful festival weekend."

Produced by Jay-Z's Roc Nation, the event launched in 2012, and past headliners have included Jay-Z, Beyonce, Nicki Minaj, Mariah Carey, Drake and Pearl Jam. This year's line-up will be announced shortly.

A portion of its net proceeds will benefit the Arkansas-based criminal and prison justice reform organization, REFORM Alliance.
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Acknowledging that he took a 'scary' gamble on his career, the 'Dallas Buyers Club' star claims to get the confidence boost he needed to step away from his model wife Camila Alves.

May 27, 2021

AceShowbiz - Matthew McConaughey once turned down a $14.5 million (10.3 million) payday after deciding to quit making romantic comedies in the hopes of reaching new heights as a dramatic actor.

The star had established himself as "the go-to rom-com guy" by the late 2000s, thanks to hits like "The Wedding Planner", "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days", and "Fool's Gold", but he yearned to return to dramas, and decided the only way to do so was to turn his back on the feel-good movies for which he had become known.

"If you go deep in a rom-com, you can sink the ship," McConaughey told AARP The Magazine. "In my life, though, I was going very deep. I found the love of my life in Camila [Alves, wife]. We had a newborn coming. I had more things to get angry about, laugh about, have more joy about and be sad about."

"I wanted to do work that reflected my personal vitality. But no matter how much of a pay cut I would take, dramas were not being offered to me. So I quit [romantic comedies]."

Not everyone in his family was on board with McConaughey's bold career move, but it was the support of his model wife which gave him the confidence boost he needed to step away from the spotlight until something more appealing came his way.

"It was scary," he confessed. "But Camila said, 'If we're going to do this, we're not going to half-a** it'."

He subsequently rejected "every rom-com script that came my way," including one which would have banked him $14.5 million, and for a while, he feared he had inadvertently brought about his own acting retirement.

"No offers came in for almost a year and a half," he said. "I was now shaking hands with the fact that I may never work in Hollywood again."

However, McConaughey's gamble paid off, and in 2011, he starred in "The Lincoln Lawyer", which led to a string of dramatic roles in features like "Killer Joe", "The Paperboy", and "Mud", as well as the critically-acclaimed TV series "True Detective", before eventually winning the Best Actor Oscar for "Dallas Buyers Club".

"I unbranded those two years to then rebrand," he said, reflecting on his career resurgence. "The dramas came my way and I jumped on them."

McConaughey may one day return to his romantic comedy roots - during a recent virtual reunion with his "The Wedding Planner" co-star Jennifer Lopez, she suggested finding a new project to collaborate on, because she missed his "energy".

"I hope to be around you soon!" she smiled.
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The 'Avengers: Age of Ultron' actor is tapped to take on the lead role in an upcoming solo movie that has 'Triple Frontier' helmer J.C. Chandor on board as director.

May 27, 2021

AceShowbiz - Aaron Taylor-Johnson (previously known as Aaron Johnson) is going from one-time Marvel superhero to a Spider-Man villain. The English actor has been cast in the lead role of upcoming solo movie "Kraven the Hunter" from Sony Pictures.

One of the most iconic and notorious antiheroes, Kraven was first introduced in "The Amazing Spider-Man" issue #15 in 1964. Born Sergei Kravinoff, he considers himself to be the world's greatest hunter, a moniker he earns at first through his prowess at tracking and killing big game, often with his bare hands, so Variety describes the character.

Driven to maintain his grip on his title, he ingests a serum that gives him super-strength and stamina, and slows down his aging considerably. His signature wardrobe consists of a jacket seemingly made from a lion's head and mane, with nothing much underneath.

In the comic books, he has had encounters with Venom and Black Panther among many others, and is one of Spider-Man's best known and most formidable enemies.

"Kraven the Hunter" has J.C. Chandor, who is best known for writing and directing films like "Margin Call", "All Is Lost", "A Most Violent Year" and "Triple Frontier", on board as director. Avi Arad and Matt Tolmach are producing, with the screenplay written by Art Marcum, Matt Holloway and Richard Wenk.

According to Deadline, Taylor-Johnson grabbed the attention of studio execs with his scenes in upcoming action film "Bullet Train". Convinced by his performance which sees him sharing screen with Brad Pitt in particular, the studio acted fast to get him on the phone with Chandor. The actor and the director reportedly hit off after just one call and a deal was sealed fairly quickly.

This, however, won't be the first time Taylor-Johnson stars as in a comic-book adaptation. He headlined 2010's "Kick-Ass" and even portrayed Marvel's superhero Quicksilver in 2015's "Avengers: Age of Ultron". The latter role was a one-time though, because his character's storyline ended in the same movie.

"Kraven the Hunter" is currently slated for January 13, 2023 release in the United States.
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Showing off his muscular physique in a social media post, the 'Lost City of D' actor uses an emoji of a monkey with its hands over its mouth to preserve his modesty.

May 27, 2021

AceShowbiz - Channing Tatum suffered a cramp on Tuesday, May 25 after "flexing so hard" to show off his muscular physique in a nude photo on social media.

The "Magic Mike" star let it all hang out as he posed for the image in his trailer on the set of action comedy "The Lost City of D", using an emoji of a monkey with its hands over its mouth to preserve his modesty.

"You know when you in the make-up trailer a**hole naked holding a towel over your junk you about to do some s**t on set that you gonna have to prepare ya mama for before she see the movie [sic]," he captioned the image.

However, Tatum admitted his defined abs only looked so good because he was straining to make his muscles look as tight as possible - a move which left him in some discomfort. He added, "And yes I'm flexing so hard i got a cramp [sic]."

Tatum is known for staying on top of his fitness and recently revealed he had challenged himself to complete a two-mile (3.2-kilometer) swim in the ocean.

"I have done all kinds of bulls**t to get in or stay in shape. Almost everything you can think of," he explained online. "And i have to say nothing yet has been more suffocating and exhausting and effective than freestyle wrestling or open ocean water swimming [sic]."

While the activities have proven to be great workouts for Tatum, he did confess there were moments during his mammoth swim where he thought he "might die."

"The Lost City of D" stars Sandra Bullock as a romance novelist who becomes part of an attempted kidnapping during a book tour with her novel's cover model, played by Tatum. It also features Brad Pitt and Daniel Radcliffe and is set for release next year (2022).
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The 'Real Housewives of New York City' star also accuses the journalist of having a close relationship with Ghislaine Maxwell, who has been arrested for allegedly procuring underage girls for multimillionaire pedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

May 27, 2021

AceShowbiz - Leah McSweeney has been wondering what she did wrong to Carole Radziwill. Upon learning she was blocked by the latter on Instagram, "The Real Housewives of New York City" star called out the journalist for her "weird" move.

Making use of Instagram Story, the 38-year-old fashion designer shared a screenshot showing that she can no longer see the Bravo alum's Instagram profile. On the top of the snap, she wrote, "This is so weird. I've never uttered a word about her but I do have a question for her."

McSweeney went on to shade, "How is the sex trafficking bestie Ghislange [sic] doing?" Her question came after Radziwill and Ghislaine Maxwell, who has been arrested for allegedly procuring underage girls for multimillionaire pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, were captured at an event together in 2007.

Back in February 2020, Radziwill was asked by Heather McDonald about her connection with the British socialite. In her "Juicy Scoop" podcast, McDonald first told her listeners, "Before the interview started, I asked [Radziwill], 'Can I ask you about a photo that has gone around?' It was a Getty image of you at a movie premiere with Ghislaine Maxwell, who has a strong association [with] Jeffrey Epstein."

Radziwill then divulged that she and Maxwell "were friendly in the early 2000s" but she hasn't "seen her and really talked to her in over a decade." She further explained, "I don't remember... I think the last time I saw her was at a movie screening for Amelia Earhart or something. It was a movie [where] somehow she was involved."

That aside, Leah previously was feuding with Radziwill's close friend Heather Thomson. On the reason why, Thomson claimed in September 2020 that her former co-star, Luann de Lesseps, used "hard drugs" while on a cast trip to St. Barts. Later in March this year, McSweeney addressed her beef with Thompson, saying that she doesn't like "women who slut-shame other women."
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'Although he did not live to see those plans through to fruition, it is my honor to ensure his legacy lives on,' Howard University President Wayne A. I. Frederick says in the announcement.

May 27, 2021

AceShowbiz - Chadwick Boseman is getting the ultimate honor from his alma mater. Almost nine months after "Black Panther" star lost his battle with colon cancer, it was announced that Howard University's newly reestablished College of Fine Arts will be named after him.

In an official statement issued on Wednesday, May 26, the university announced that its fine arts college will be renamed to Chadwick A. Bossman College of Fine Arts. The actor graduated from the university in 2000 with a bachelor's of arts degree in directing. He also earned an honorary doctorate and gave a stirring commencement following the release of his "Black Panther" back in 2018.

"Chad fought to preserve the College of Fine Arts during his matriculation at Howard and remained dedicated to the fight throughout his career, and he would be overjoyed by this development," the actor's family said in a statement. They added, "His time at Howard University helped shape both the man and the artist that he became."

The family of the "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" star elaborated further, "Committed to truth, integrity, and a determination to transform the world through the power of storytelling." They continued, "We are confident that under the dynamic leadership of his ormer professor and mentor the indomitable Phylicia Rashad that the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts will inspire artistic scholars for many generations."

The late actor's wife, Simone Ledward-Boseman, also shared her support and expressed her pride in the decision to rename the school after her late husband. "I am extremely pleased that Howard University has chosen to honor my husband in this way and elated that Ms. Rashad has accepted the role as Dean," she said.

"Chad was a very proud Bison - both Howard and Ms. Rashad played integral roles in his journey as an artist," she stated. "The re-establishment of the College of Fine Arts brings this part of his story full-circle and ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire young storytellers for years to come."

Howard University President Wayne A. I. Frederick remembered Chadwick fondly in his statement. "When Chadwick Boseman returned to campus in 2018 to serve as our commencement speaker, he called Howard a magical place. During his visit, I announced our plans to reestablish the College of Fine Arts and he was filled with ideas and plans to support the effort in a powerful way," he recalled.

"Chadwick's love for Howard University was sincere, and although he did not live to see those plans through to fruition, it is my honor to ensure his legacy lives on through the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts with the support of his wife and the Chadwick Boseman Foundation," he added. "I'm also elated to have the support of The Walt Disney Company's Executive Chairman Bob Iger, who has graciously volunteered to lead the fundraising effort to build a state-of-the art facility and endowment for the college."

Chadwick passed away at the age of 43in August 2020 after years of secret battle with colon cancer. At the time, his family confirmed the heartbreaking news by saying, "It is with immeasurable grief that we confirm the passing of Chadwick Boseman. Chadwick was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016, and battled with it these last 4 years as it progressed to stage IV."
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In an episode of 'CBS This Morning', the Olympic gold medalist also explains why she thinks that she's fit for the job, saying, 'I think thats a good thing, being from the outside.'

May 27, 2021

AceShowbiz - Caitlyn Jenner has shared more insights into her plans for her run for California governor. During her appearance on "CBS This Morning" on Wednesday, May 26, the Olympic gold medalist revealed whether or not she would make use of her famous children and step-kids' massive social media platforms to help her campaign.

"I did speak with all my children and I said, 'Hey, I don't want one tweet, I don't want you--this is my deal,' " Caitlyn shared, referring to her daughters Kendall Jenner, Kylie Jenner as well as her ex-wife Kris Jenner's kids Kourtney Kardashian, Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian and Rob Kardashian. That made one of the co-hosts, Anthony Mason, shocked as he asked, "You told them not to be involved?"

"YesNot to be involved whatsoever," Caitlyn responded. "I said if anybody asks any questions in the media -- because obviously they are in the media -- I just said, 'Say, 'No comment,' address your comment to me."

In the episode, Caitlyn also explained why she thought that she's fit for the job. "I think thats a good thing, being from the outside. The insiders who we're talking about as what makes you qualified -- well, these insiders who are qualifiedthey're the ones responsible for 13.3% tax rates. We have the highest tax rates in the country. We have a homeless crisis in California. They're the ones responsible, not me. I'm going in there to fix those things," so she continued.

While it remains to be seen whether Kendall and Kylie are supportive of Caitlyn's governor run, Kim allegedly didn't agree with her former stepmom's opinions regarding releasing "dangerous criminals" from prison.

A source told TMZ that Kim was both "disappointed" and "disturbed" with Caitlyn's general views on prison reform. It was not surprising because the SKIMS founder has helped numerous people who were previously sentenced to life, including Alice Marie Johnson, Momolu Stewart and Tynice Hall, getting parole out of prison.
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Talking about her road trip across the country with her father to start a life with her senator boyfriend, 'The Mandalorian' actress admits that it was a 'really beautiful' one.

May 27, 2021

AceShowbiz - Rosario Dawson has looked back at her journey to start a new life with Cory Booker in New Jersey. Having taken her romantic relationship with her senator boyfriend to the next level in the summer of 2020, "The Mandalorian" star labeled her road trip across the country with her father "an amazing adventure."

In the latest issue of PEOPLE, the 42-year-old opened up about her moving in with the New Jersey senator, who she has been dating since 2019. She told the publication, "It was an amazing adventure. My family are all in New York. It felt really beautiful and good to start a new chapter of my life in the driver's seat."

Rosario made the 3,000-mile trip from California to New Jersey in a 29-ft. RV. The Claire Temple of "Luke Cage" was joined by her father, Greg, who is battling pancreatic cancer, so that they could spend more time together before she settled him in New York City and she moved into Cory's home in the Central Ward.

The "Zombieland: Double Tap" actress announced her plan to move in with Cory in 2020. At the time, she was forced to go several months without seeing her 51-year-old boyfriend since the height of the COVID-19 pandemic put her in quarantine with her parents. In an interview with Kevin Smith, she explained, "My boyfriend. I haven't seen him since February. He is by himself, going between Newark and DC."

Revealing her big plan to move in with Cory, Rosario declared, "I'm actually in the process of moving, by the way. I'm going to New Jersey." The former "Daredevil" star also shared that her mother will be staying at her place in New York while she resides with her boyfriend. "We were thinking about moving in together anyway, but especially during all of this, it's been really intense," she declared, adding she's "very excited."

Rosario met Cory at a fundraiser in 2018. She now lives together with her boyfriend in a multifamily home in Newark's Central Wand. In October 2020, Cory spilled to Buzz Feed, "This is the first time in my life I've really lived with somebody, and obviously Rosario and I are enjoying and adjusting to that."
Update: May 26, 2021, 5:25 p.m. - After heavy police presence on Rancheria Dr. Chico High School is no longer under lockdown, according to the Chico Police Department.

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CHICO, Calif. - Chico High School is on lockdown due to heavy police activity, Chico Police Department said. Rancheria Drive is blocked off between North Cedar Street and Mechoopda Street.

Officers responded to 814 Rancheria Dr. around 3:20 p.m. Wednesday. Police said there are no students at the school but the school is on lockdown due to heavy police activity in the area.

This is a developing story. Action News Now will keep you updated with new information.
ORLAND, Calif.  Glenn County is terminating its local emergency that was declared over a year ago due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift comes as Glenn County has seen a decline in COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths.

County officials said they are now focusing on vaccinating residents.

On March 16, the Glenn County Administrative Officer proclaimed the local emergency. Since then, the employees of Glenn County have worked to implement guidelines from the California Department of Public Health in an effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

RELATED: California governor says mask mandate to end after June 15

Glenn County and its residents participated in stay-at-home order, testing, opening and closing of the local economy. 43.3% of eligible residents have received at least one dose of a vaccine, and 36.3% of the eligible residents have been fully vaccinated.

The State of California announced that on June 15, 2021, all sectors listed in the Blueprint Activities and Business Tiers may return to usual operations with limited exceptions for Mega Events.

Health officials are warning that this does not mean that the threat of the virus and virus variants are not still present. What is believed is that the ability to manage the care for those infected will not risk the stability of the local health system. Because of this information, Glenn County Administrative Officer is proclaiming an end to the local emergency pursuant to Government Code section 8630, et. seq.
COVID-related mental health disparities? There's an app for that

A University of Houston researcher is developing a behavioral health care app to address COVID-related health disparities in racial and ethnic populations, where health inequality has been magnified during the pandemic.

"As a society we need to increase access to high-quality mental health care and to do that we need all styles of care in place including what I call digital therapeutics," said Michael Zvolensky, Hugh Roy and Lillie Cranz Cullen Distinguished University Professor of psychology at the University of Houston. The National Institute of Mental Health awarded Zvolensky $2.7 million for further development and testing of the downloadable application named EASE (Easing Anxiety Sensitivity for Everyone).

With thousands of pre-programmed suggestions, the app provides solutions in real time if a participant is anxious. For instance, if a user sends the app a message about feeling stressed, he or she would receive an immediate suggestion of how to curb the feeling. The suggestions involve ways to ground yourself, things like taking a deep breath or slowly noticing five things around you to reregulate a distressed emotional state.

"This is a cutting-edge way to deal with mental health problems that we hope will eventually be approved by the Food and Drug Administration," said Zvolensky, who is also director of the Anxiety and Health Research Laboratory/Substance Use Treatment Clinic at UH.

Clear health disparities have emerged in rates of COVID-19 exposure, hospitalization, and death among Black, Latinx, and American Indians (BLAI), relative to non-Latinx white (NLW) individuals; and BLAI populations are disproportionately affected by lower behavioral health access and heightened negative mental health outcomes as a result of the pandemic. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American Indians have had COVID-19 hospitalization rates about 5.3 times that of white people, and COVID-19 hospitalization among Black and Latinx people were both about 4.7 times the rate of white people.

The randomized clinical trial group testing the app will include 800 participants - 200 Black, 200 Latinx, 200 American Indian and 200 white, all who suffer from some form of anxiety, depression or COVID-related stress.

"When you treat someone for anxiety you don't always focus on simply reducing their anxiety symptoms. Rather, you teach them about their dysfunctional thinking styles and how to correct them so that they can better manage anxiety and related stressors. For example, by reducing one's sensitivity to anxiety symptoms (i.e., fear of the negative consequences of anxiety) you can improve their mental and behavioral health. The app delivers anxiety sensitivity reduction and educates them about the role of anxiety sensitivity in their mental health. By doing so we lessen the risk that they'll have more severe mental health problems," said Zvolensky.

Zvolensky collaborated with Michael Businelle and programmers from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center to create the application.

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This story has been published on: 2021-05-26. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Tesla center in China to store local data

(China Daily) 08:41, May 27, 2021

A Tesla employee introduces products during an expo in Shanghai. [Photo by Gao Yuwen/For China Daily]

Tesla has said it will store data its vehicles generate in China locally and offer its vehicle owners access to query information, as vehicles from the United States carmaker and other smart car companies are fueling privacy concerns.

In a Sina Weibo statement late Tuesday, Tesla said it has established a data center in China, with more to be built in the future, for local data storage, promising that all data of its vehicles sold on the Chinese mainland will be kept in the country.

It did not provide a schedule when the center will be put into use but said it will notify the public when it is ready for use.

Tesla's move is the latest by a smart vehicle maker in response to growing concerns that the vehicles' cameras and other sensors, which are designed to facilitate use, may prove to be privacy intrusion tools as well.

The public debate over the issue became more intense in April when a Tesla Model 3 owner protested at the Shanghai auto show about an alleged brake failure that resulted in a car crash.

In the same month, Tesla made public the vehicle's data within 30 minutes of the car crash without the consent of the car owner, fueling further debate about safety and privacy. The dispute remains unresolved so far, as the data cannot be verified.

Tesla is just one of a growing number of companies that are rolling out smart vehicles.

Statistics from the Ministry of Information and Technology show 15 percent of passenger cars sold last year have Level 2 autonomous functions.

That means over 3 million vehicles, from both Chinese and foreign carmakers, with cameras and radars hit the Chinese roads last year.

Experts said the number of smart vehicles will grow even higher and faster, as the global auto industry is shifting toward electrification and digitalization. Features like wireless software updates, voice commands and facial recognition are now standard on most new vehicles.

Earlier this month, the Cyberspace Administration of China began to solicit public opinion on a set of draft rules that require automobile-related business operators to obtain the permission of drivers before collecting car owners' personal and driving data.

The default option for the carmakers is not to store data that vehicles generate, and even if they are allowed to store it, the data must be deleted if customers request so.

Chen Quanshi, a professor of automotive engineering at Tsinghua University in Beijing, said it is a correct move to regulate the smart vehicle segment.

"Connectivity is making cars easier to use, but it poses risks as well. We should have introduced regulations earlier," said Chen.

In early May, autonomous driving startup Pony.ai founder James Peng said the data its robotaxi fleets collect in China will be stored in the country, and they will be desensitized to ensure privacy.

Late last month, the National Information Security Standardization Technical Committee released a draft to seek public feedback, which would forbid companies from processing data from cars not related to vehicle management or driving safety.

Also, data regarding locations, roads, buildings and other information collected from the environment outside the cars through sensors such as cameras and radar will not be allowed to leave the country, it said.

Control of use, transmission and storage of data are a challenge for the industry and regulators worldwide.

Nio's founder and CEO William Li said its vehicles sold in Norway will have their data stored locally. The Chinese company announced in May the vehicles will be available in the European country later this year.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
Businesses that have not received prior COVID-relief funding from the state or the county will be prioritized, according to the statement, and can start applying for the grants on Tuesday, June 1. The county has offered several rounds of grants to businesses, farms, childcare centers and restaurants earlier in the pandemic. Other eligible businesses can apply on Monday, June 7, if funding remains available.
REDDING, Calif. - Health Care workers in Shasta County stood outside a Redding hospital demanding for change.

As people were outside the hospital, cars drove by honking in support of dozens of healthcare workers demanding better staffing outside Mercy Medical Center in Redding Wednesday.

Christine Sutter, a registered nurse with the hospital, explained the issues they're dealing with.

Management is proposing to float us, Sutter said. I said I've been here for 34 years, but it's on a labor and delivery unit. So if you floated me to a med surge unit or a tele-unit, I don't have the skills, I don't have the competencies to care for a patient on a different unit. We need good quality nurses and to do that, we need to be in the right place. 

The California nurses association and the hospital said what happened Wednesday was not a protest, it was an information picket.

Mercy Medical Center released the following statement to Action News Now:

Mercy Medical Center Redding has been engaged in good-faith negotiations with the California Nurses Association for several weeks regarding the renewal of the nurses' contract, which expires on June 30th, 2021. We are committed to reaching a fair agreement that recognizes the important work that our nurses provide, and also ensures our Ministry can continue to provide vital healthcare services to the Redding community. We look forward to continued dialogue with the union in the coming weeks.
CHICO, Calif. - The Silver Dollar Fairgrounds in Chico is getting ready to welcome people back to the fair for the first time since the pandemic.

A scaled-down version of the fair will return to Chico on Memorial Day weekend, from May 27 through May 30.

"We're excited to move forward mentally and put on a fair for everyone in our county and city of Chico, said fairgrounds CEO Nick DiGrazia.

DiGrazia said even though it will be smaller things won't look too different.

"We're really excited, for a lot of people this is their livelihood and they've been shut down for over a year so we are excited for everyone here," he said.

This comes as big relief for Phillip Delahoyde, his fair food business took a big hit last year.

"It is not only our business, it's our livelihood and last year we came up with some concepts and pushed through but it was definitely tough," he said.

The carnival will still offer around 30 rides. That is 90% of the rides you'll typically see at the fair. The only rides you won't see are the ones that are enclosed because of COVID-19 restrictions. The indoor exhibitions are also canceled.

The annual Junior Livestock auction is also back but will be closed to the public and only open to buyers. Even so, participants like Taylor Ludwig and Tylar Ainslie are excited to show their animal's in-person.

"I'm very excited it's been a rough year not being in-person," said Ludwig.

"I was most excited that I'd get to interact with the judge and be able to interact with other participants," said Ainslie.

Despite the changes, DiGrazia is excited to bring the event back for the community to enjoy.

DiGrazia said the ticket prices will be also lower than usual this year.

Other attractions this year include a live shark encounter, a puppets and player's theatre show.

They will have live music and also fireworks on Sunday.
Taboola, a global leader in powering recommendations for the open web, helping people discover things they may like, today announced a new deal with BBC Global News, the home of the BBCs award-winning commercial international news, sport and features content, in which it will become the renowned publishers exclusive content recommendations provider.

BBC News is the worlds most trusted international news broadcaster and reaches 438 million people around the globe each week across TV, online, apps and social media. BBC.com saw record reach over the past year, with 145 million unique browsers each month. Taboola Feed, a seamlessly integrated feed that provides readers with personalised content for a more engaging experience, enabling monetisation of below-article placements, will be integrated into BBC.com - the home of BBC News and BBC Sport - in all markets outside the UK, where the publisher is commercially funded. Its aim is to drive revenue while keeping UX and the integrity of the brand intact, as well as to grow engagement and audiences across the site.

Errol Baran, BBC Global News SVP, Business Development and Innovation, Global Advertising and StoryWorks, said: As our readership grows and changes, we constantly seek out technology companies like Taboola which can help us keep pace. Our robust standards for data and quality are paramount and we have chosen to work with Taboola because of the adaptability of their recommendation platform and their understanding of our requirements. We are very much looking forward to forming a fruitful relationship going forward.

Adam Singolda, Founder and CEO, Taboola said: We are very pleased to officially hold the title of exclusive content recommendations provider for BBC Global News. To take on this role, we needed to earn the absolute trust of the BBC that we can meet their requirements. As a result, we have built a true partnership and we cannot wait to further innovate together. This alliance fits perfectly with our focus on premium publications and brands, and were confident our products will help grow revenue across the BBCs sites.
Clensta, an IIT Delhi partnered Startup, becomes one of the first company to receive  50 million as funding from N+1 Capital. This fast-growing startup providing innovative personal care and home care solutions has recently had a strategic tie-up with the pharma brand Cipla for its first commercialized products Waterless Bodybath and Waterless Shampoo. Clensta is now all set to utilize the funds raised from N+1 for scaling up the upcoming products for Homecare category.

Revenue-based growth capital firm N+1 Capital has received approval from the Securities and Exchanges Board of India (SEBI) for its first investment debt fund in order to deploy capital in India. The vision behind these $100 million ( 730 crore) funds is to provide 100+ entrepreneurs to grow their businesses profitably and sustainably through their growth stage. The benefits for entrepreneurs include no personal guarantee at stake, tech driven risk scoring model, have a greater flexibility and constant capital infusion. It also provides credibility, assurance, builds trust and reduces the time load for due diligence for the upcoming investors.

Clensta is focused to exceeded each of our core financial goals; organic sales growth, core earnings per share growth and adjusted free cash flow productivity, all while improving market share and generating leadership levels of shareholder value creation. At the same time N+1 capital values innovation, data driven analysis, agility of the funding cycle, empathy and persistence. Clensta qualifies for these values and is among the pioneer company for Indias first revenue-based debt fund.

"N+1 is sector agnostic, and the qualifying criteria are actually steady-state, as well as growing startups and MSEs with minimum monthly revenue of Rs 50 lakh, and at least 30 percent gross margin. Having said that, the fund is currently working with SaaS startups and some Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) startups, said Rahul Chowdhury, Managing Partner, N+1 Capital.

Speaking on the occasion, Puneet Gupta, CEO & Founder, Clensta International stated, While we appreciate the progress, what really matters at this point of time is scalability of the developed products. We already have a strong B2B2C presence with 500+ hospitals and 25000+ retail outlets including pharmacies, as now our business demands to penetrate through the D2C channels as well, this debt fund helps us grow further and reach out to consumers at a faster pace. Also provide us the opportunity to expand offline as well online covers all important aspects of sales channel. Its a great opportunity that venture capitalist firms like N+1 have introduced revenue-based fund in India which is mostly popular in the west and are providing the startup ecosystem a thrust to move forward.
Over the years, actor Manoj Bajpayee has proved his mettle as an actor. Be it comedy, drama or an action thriller, Manoj has time and again given cinephiles a performance that they will cherish forever. While theres no denying that Manoj is one of the most versatile actors in the industry, it wont be wrong to say that the actor has a stronghold on the crime-thriller genre. Now as the actor is gearing up for the release of the new season of crime-thriller The Family Man, where he reprises his role as Srikant Tiwari, we take a look at some of Manoj Bajpayees impressive movies in the genre.



Satya (1998)

Directed by Ram Gopal Varma, Satya was Manoj Bajpayees big break. The film, which was based on the lives of Mumbais underworld, received plaudits from critics and audiences alike. The film was regarded as one of the most realistic portrayals of Indian gangsters and paved the way for future gangster films in India. Manoj Bajpayee as Bhiku Mhatre, a gangster, stole the show and went on to become the poster boy for gangster films. After all, Mumbai ka King Kaun, Bhiku Mhatre? This guns-and-gangs saga not only introduced the world to the brilliant acting of Manoj Bajpayee (and he won the National Award for the same) but also made him a dance icon (Remember Sapno Mein Milti Hai?)



Gangs of Wasseypur (2012)

Gangs of Wasseypur was a dark comedy crime film starring an ensemble cast, featuring Manoj Bajpayee, Richa Chadda, Reema Sen, Piyush Mishra, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Pankaj Tripathi, Huma Qureshi, and Tigmanshu Dhulia, among others. Based on the coal-mafia of Dhanbad and vengeance between three crime families, Gangs of Wasseypur was a cult hit of 2012. The ensemble cast of such talented actors couldnt diminish the talent of Manoj Bajpayee who stood out as Sardar Khan in the film.



Shootout at Wadala (2013)

Once again donning the hat of a gangster, Manoj Bajpayee turned Zubair Imtiaz Haksar for director Sanjay Guptas Shootout at Wadala (2013). Manoj as a menacing Zubair was nothing short of phenomenal in the film and once again proved that when it comes to crime-dramas and crime-thrillers, no one does it better than him.



The Family Man (2019 and 2021)

Making a shift from playing a gangster to catching one, Manoj Bajpayee played the role of a senior analyst in the fictional Threat Analysis and Surveillance Cell (TASC) in Amazon Prime Videos Original Series The Family Man. Directed by Raj and DK, Srikant is seen fighting terrorists on the field while hiding the real nature of his jobs from his two kids. The gripping story and power-packed action sequences are elevated by Manojs acting who fits perfectly in the character. The new season, which will stream from June 4, 2021, will see Srikant Tiwari battle an even deadlier nemesis.



Silence...Can You Hear It? (2021)

Starring Manoj Bajpayee, Prachi Desai and Arjun Mathur, Silence...Can You Hear It? is a thriller film that revolves around the mysterious disappearance of a woman. Manoj played the role of a police inspector, entrusted with the job of finding the missing woman. The murder mystery, currently streaming on Zee5, will give you goosebumps and keeps you on the edge of the seats with its twists and turns. Needless to say, Manoj Bajpayee shines as ACP Avinash Verma in this film.



Theres no way we can limit Manoj Bajpayees talent to just five films. So apart from the above-mentioned titles, dont forget to check out his other brilliant acts in Naam Shabana, Aiyaari, Mrs Serial Killer, Sarkaar 3 and do not miss The Family Mans new season from June 4, 2021 on Amazon Prime Video.
Multinational confectionery company Mondelez India took personalization@scale to the next level by targeting young consumers on online radio for their brand Cadbury Fuse. This is yet another step towards adopting an empathy at scale approach . The campaign aimed to engage with listeners in a human way adding value for both the consumer and the brand, whilst maintaining the brands unconventional, instinctive persona. Partnering with JioSaavn to use dynamic audio narratives, the recently concluded campaign was made in collaboration with Wavemaker and Ogilvy.

Innovatively leveraging real-time data allowed the brand to reach consumers in the most relevant and hyper-personalized way through the creation of 500+ contextual audio ad permutations and combinations. And a post campaign Nielsen study showed that listeners of the ad registered a 21% increase in their intent to buy.

Anil Viswanathan, Senior Director  Marketing (Chocolates), Insights and Analytics, Mondelez India said, This association has been a great add-on to our efforts in ensuring impactful and targeted communication which is an essential factor in the journey towards continuously establishing our Marketing and Digital Excellence. The dynamic audio narratives helped us ace our personalization game, delivering a truly integrated marketing approach by leveraging the synergies between JioSaavns data-driven efficacy and our brand Cadbury Fuses innovative narrative. Having unlocked the potential of Dynamic Audio to strengthen our consumer connect agenda has been very exciting.



This successful campaign was conceptualized by Wavemaker, who were able to bring together the right partners for a well-suited mix of data, technology and innovation. True to this core thought, the Cadbury Fuse brand identity was creatively brought alive in terms of sound by Ogilvy, who developed a distinct sonic identity - reflective of the unconventional, instinctive persona of the brand.

Shekhar Banerjee, Chief Client Officer and Head  West, Wavemaker India said, "This campaign is a testimony to the possibilities and evolution of digital marketing to personalize experiences for audiences, by focussing on the core brand idea. The dynamic audio personalization is a great example of Personalization @ Scale, where the core brand idea feeds into every users personal environment making Cadbury Fuse relevant."

Beenu Kurup, Senior Vice President, Ogilvy India said, Cadbury Fuse is the go-to hunger beater for the Indian youth. Since its launch less than 5 years ago its managed to capture everyones attention with its interesting communication and innovative use of media targeting across platforms. This was another first of its kind opportunity and Fuse had to stand out apart from the standard ads that play on online radio. We created a master spot in the brands inimitable tone of voice calling out that hunger isnt like the ads which will interrupt you but fade out back to music. Hunger needs to be satisfied and one can always be prepared with a Fuse handy.



JioSaavn's Dynamic Audio enables advertisers like Mondelez India to deliver audio narratives that are highly contextual to a listeners streaming experience. In this campaign, each listener heard a real-time personalized ad that was catered to their city, time of the day, day of the week, and the genre being streamed.



Excited with the association, Virginia Sharma, Vice President - Brand Solutions at JioSaavn said, It is JioSaavns mission to help brands be relevant to our audience, at scale, in a timely and engaging fashion. We continue to innovate through data and technology to deliver native ad experiences that feel like a service to listeners. Dynamic Audio is unique because it offers advertisers the ability to combine the intimate and immersive nature of audio with the technological benefits of programmatic. Were fortunate to have partners like Mondelez, Wavemaker and Ogilvy and are excited to support their agenda of personalization and empathy, at scale.

In a promising ad effectiveness study conducted by Neilsen, 7 of every 10 respondents recalled hearing and seeing the ad, and 4 out of the 7 correctly associated the ad to Cadbury Fuse. Further, 63% of respondents who recalled the ad found it to be relevant to them, making the pilot edition of the JioSaavns dynamic audio campaign a success.

Personalizing audio communication is not a futuristic vision anymore. This latest association spearheads a promising possibility for many brands to strike the right chord with their audience, penetrating their world through real-time contextual and relevant advertising.
Following WhatsApp filing a legal complaint against the Indian government, seeking to block the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021, which came into effect from May 26, 2021, the Government of India has affirmed that it recognises that Right to Privacy is a Fundamental right and that it is committed to ensure the same to its citizens.

However, at the same time, the Government said that as per all established judicial dictum, no Fundamental Right, including the Right to Privacy, is absolute and it is subject to reasonable restrictions. The requirements in the Intermediary Guidelines pertaining to the first originator of information are an example of such a reasonable restriction.

In a statement issued, Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad stated that the Government of India is committed to ensure the Right of Privacy to all its citizens, but at the same time it is also the responsibility of the government to maintain law and order and ensure national security. He also assured that none of the measures proposed by India will impact the normal functioning of WhatsApp in any manner whatsoever and for the common users, there will be no impact.

The Government reiterated that an order, to trace first originator, under Rule 4(2) of the Intermediary Guidelines shall be passed only for the purposes of prevention, investigation, punishment, etc., of inter alia an offence relating to sovereignty, integrity and security of India, public order incitement to an offence relating to rape, sexually explicit material or child sexual abuse material punishable with imprisonment for not less than five years.

We cannot deny as to how in cases of mob lynching and riots, etc., repeated WhatsApp messages are circulated and re-circulated whose content are already in public domain. Hence, the role of who originated is very important, the statement added.

The press statement goes on to mention the Rules as Per Law of Land, which are:
WhatsApp filed a legal complaint against the Indian government in Delhi seeking to block regulations coming into force on Wednesday that experts say would compel the Facebook messaging app to break privacy protections, according to media reports.

The case file asks Delhi Court to declare the that one of the new rules is a violation of privacy rights in Indias constitution since it requires social media companies to identify the first originator of information when authorities demand it.

The WhatsApp lawsuit is acting as a growing struggle between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other social media apps, Facebook and Twitter which were asked to get ban if didn't follow the privacy policies applied by the government.

Issue being very sensitive with nearly 400 million people using WhatsApp in India, Reuters are not independently confirming that the complaint had been filed in court by the tech company.

Tensions grew after a police visit to Twitters offices earlier this week. The micro-blogging service had labelled posts by a spokesman for the dominant party and others as containing manipulated media, saying forged content was included.

The government not only demanded the tech companies to remove misinformation related to Covid 19 but also some criticism of the governments response to the crisis, which is claiming thousands of lives daily.

India's new Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code designates "significant social media intermediaries" as standing to lose protection from lawsuits and criminal prosecution if they fail to adhere to the code.

WhatsApp, its parent Facebook and tech rivals have all invested heavily in India. But company officials worry privately that increasingly heavy-handed regulation by the government could endanger their prospects.

Among the new rules are requirements that big social media firms appoint Indian citizens to key compliance roles, remove content within 36 hours of a legal order, and set up a mechanism to respond to complaints. They must also use automated processes to take down pornography.

Facebook says that it agrees with most of the provisions that are been put up by the government but is still looking to negotiate further. Whereas, Twitter, the tech giant company, which has come under the most fire for failing to take down posts by government critics, declined to comment, according to the reports.

Other court challenges to the new rules are already pending in Delhi and elsewhere.
During this challenging past year Wisconsin dairy farmers have been deemed essential workers, committed to their communities by working every 
It took firefighters an hour to control the fire, and the house was left with extensive damage. The department said there were no injuries as a result of the fire, but officials said the house is uninhabitable, with damage estimated at $1 million.
In a covered anaerobic lagoon design, methane is recovered and piped to the combustion device from a lagoon with a flexible cover. Some system
Pulse USA, a pulse crop and forage seed company based in Bismarck, N.D., is now fully-owned by some of the employees who work there.
Editors note: This article is part of a series featuring women members of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation.

Sarah Sacker is a dairy farmer near Monroe, Wisconsin. The milk her dairy herd produces is shipped to nearby Klondike Cheese Company where its made into cheese and yogurt.

When and why did you begin farming?

Sacker: I grew up farming alongside my parents on our dairy farm. I stayed involved on the farm after graduating in 2011 from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with degrees in dairy science and life-sciences communication. I helped with chores on evenings and weekends. Working in agri-marketing for several years allowed me to gain the perspective of both lifestyles. It helped my husband and I realize dairy farming is something we want to continue to pursue.

What do you produce on your farm and why?

Sacker: We milk 100 Holsteins; the milk they produce is shipped to Klondike Cheese Company. Its made into cheese and Greek yogurt under the Buholzer Brothers and Odyssey labels. We farm 230 acres and grow the majority of the forage needed to feed our livestock each year.

Does your family help with the farm?

Sacker: My husband, Josh Schenk, works full-time off the farm but still plays a big role in the farms day-to-day operations. He helps with chores before and after work, and on weekends. He also helps with fieldwork; together we make management and crop decisions. My father, Jim Sacker, is mostly retired but he helps fix things around the farm and lends a helping hand where needed.
After several weeks of leading commodity prices higher, a number of factors have combined to pressure corn prices.

Corn has been the price leader of late, unfortunately its been leading down, instead of up, said Frayne Olson, grain marketing economist at North Dakota State University. But theres some positive news, too. Last week (week ending May 21) China came in and made about four significant purchases for U.S. corn for new crop corn, not old crop  not for immediate delivery, but for corn to be delivered this next marketing year.

It was a bit of a surprise. But its also very, very positive that the Chinese corn buying will continue. Theyre already booking corn for the 2021 crop, the one were planting right now.

On the positive side, that was definitely supportive, he added.

The main reason that corn prices dropped so much the last couple weeks of May is two-fold, according to Olson. One is that producers made very rapid planting progress in corn nationwide and when you have early planting progress that usually correlates with pretty good, strong yields.

At least the yield potential is there. Early planting means that yield potential is good, he said.

The other thing is that most of the Corn Belt has very good soil moisture and has been getting rains on a regular basis.

One of the challenges we have up here is we get caught in the backyard syndrome. Just because its really dry in our area and the crop is not looking good and everybody's worried about it, doesnt mean that nationally thats whats going on, he explained, adding that even though it may be dry in the Northern Plains, doesnt mean thats the case everywhere and the market is aware of the situation.
The real estate markets in Ahwatukee Foothills and the rest of the Phoenix Metro region have
Ahwatukee American Legion Post 64 held a memorial service May 19 for members who were transferred to Post Everlasting in 2019 and 2020. It was the first time the post could gather inside its home base at the Ahwatukee Recreation Center in 14 months. Post Commander Pete Meier called the meeting and ceremony to order in front of a hologram designed by ARC member Ed Doney.
Ahwatukee Democratic Sen. Sean Bowie warned that the impact of a massive tax cut and flat tax rate could defund police and public safety for cities.
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Starr was driving his girlfriends car during the crash. Helen Brockmeyer described Starr in April as a naturally gifted musician who could play any instrument, just by picking it up and figuring it out. He was known as a jazz flutist, but also played piano, bass and an electronic wind controller that allowed him to create the sound of almost any wind instrument.
Police said they still dont know how long she was in the water before she was pulled out by locals on the beach. Detectives are investigating her cause of death.
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Italian buyout house Alto Partners has had "positive responses" from LPs in the pre-marketing phase for its next fund which will be in the market relatively soon, AltAssets can reveal.
Anna Istre, a second grade teacher at Lake Charles Charter Academy, had two very unusual starts to her career. She graduated McNeese State University and began teaching right before the March 2020 COVID-19 shutdowns and then began again with the difficulties of the storm ridden 2020-2021 sch
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP)  In the final minutes of their legislative session, Louisiana lawmakers agreed to change the way the state shops for voting systems, to include more public vetting and require an auditable paper trail, after two recent efforts to replace the states voting machines fai
Amazon recently released a docuseries by none other than Borat Sagdivev. Of course, Borat is a fictional character, one of many played by English actor Sacha Baron Cohen. The agitprop pushed by Cohen -- his comedic specialty -- offers an ivory tower glimpse of how cultural elites view average Americans. The latest documentary -- yes, that term is used loosely here -- is another example of narrative-driven infotainment that remains questionable at best.

For background, the original Borat movie was released in 2006. Ostensibly, it was about a Kazakh journalist traveling to the United States in the hopes of translating American success stories to his own country. The films overt humor comes from the foibles of culture clashes through physical comedy while Cohen remains in character as Borat. Sadly, the subverted plot was to humiliate unwitting participants by capturing their off-color comments to perpetuate stereotypes of anything to the right of lockstep progressive ideology.

A second Borat movie was released during the run-up to the 2020 election. Here again, the comedic target was all things conservative -- especially political figures who do not conform to leftist talking points. All of this is a prologue to the Amazon & Cohen collaboration released this week that once again mocks backward Americans.

The insidious premise of each Borat production is that unadulterated pride in America is dangerous and wrongheaded. Of course, it takes an Englishman to tell Americans how wrong they are in their patriotism.

Its become chic to express ambivalence towards America and all things patriotic. Near daily op-eds from legacy media types result in handwringing over how the Left should interact with primitive Americana -- should a righteous progressive choose to debase himself by doing so. Wildly biased stories from places like CNN or the Huffington Post might confuse readers into believing that America is a Third-World cesspool and not a bastion of freedom for the very people who decry having no freedoms. Dont waste too much time worrying about it, though. Its all been said before -- patriotic Americans are racist. In fact, patriotism is code for racism.

Trump supporters -- whether public officials or private citizens -- are often belittled and parodied as dog-whistling racists despite President Trump gaining more votes than any incumbent running for re-election and the highest share of nonwhite votes for any Republican since 1960. Much like the caricatures in Borats films, it quashes any attempt at reaching consensus by delegitimizing unwanted beliefs. Moreover, it elevates the seedier side of journalism by never letting the facts stand in the way of a good story.

A cringe-worthy example comes from Chicago mayor Lori Lightfoot. She offered an official declaration that she will not grant one-on-one interviews to white journalists. Were the roles reversed, it would be national news. As it is, one must frequent conservative news outlets to even learn of the story. Like the multitude of Cohens references via Borat, patriotic Americans mocked as racists are, in fact, being treated with racism.

With pearls clutched tightly to his chest, Cohen ramps up the rhetoric by beginning each episode of his latest anti-American vehicle reminding viewers that he spent five treacherous days during the COVID lockdown with two conspiracy theorists. No doubt, a handful of the comments made by Jim and Jerry -- the two friendly southerners who took in Borat during the lockdown -- contain wild and unsubstantiated claims. Including these unfiltered comments in the movie presents the two as uneducated and stereotypical of the rural South. Their accents provide the finishing touch for what effete urbanites imagine all country people must be like.

Its interesting to note the newest release from Amazon includes forty minutes of previously unseen footage. Jim and Jerry accounted well for themselves with numerous evidence-based arguments to counter Borats absurd claims. Naturally, these comments didnt make the second movie because it would destroy the narrative that rural folks are bumpkins, misogynists, and racists.

Still, Amazon and Cohen press on to debunk the dangerous conspiracy theories offered by the alt-right, which might as well include anyone falling short of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortezs vision of America. To accomplish this, the producers enlisted smug and condescending experts to further embarrass Jim and Jerry -- and anyone who thinks like them -- with short video lectures about why the two are wrong. The episodes focus on vaccine microchips, mail-in ballots, George Soros, the China virus, Bill Gates and ACME bricks, and Hilary Clintons blood libel.

Oddly, each episode ends up spinning Jim and Jerry as anti-Semitic to rationalize their skepticism. No direct evidence of anti-Semitism is provided. Instead, vague straw-man generalizations are lobbed at the two despite never claiming that Jewish people are responsible for their highlighted concerns. Curiously, the irony of leftist activists rushing to the defense of ethnic Jews mere days after Democrats in Congress called Israel an apartheid state was not lost on this author. Nevertheless, there is some truth in the concerns expressed by Cohens victims.

Mail-in balloting is part of a larger voting audit in Arizona. Other states -- namely Wisconsin -- may soon follow suit. The origins of the COVID virus are still under investigation. A report released today suggests that scientists are now pursuing the possibility that it came from a lab in Wuhan after all. The Clintons, the Gates, and Soros have sordid histories shrouded in competing narratives. The truth for each individual probably lies somewhere in between the versions of events each side would prefer to believe. Ultimately, neither Amazon nor Cohen has enough factual evidence to verifiably debunk most of the concerns presented.

And the agitprop train rolls on. The term is rooted in Soviet Russia, where the diffusion of ideas across various media presents an explicitly political message. If Sacha Baron Cohen wants to continue to make over-the-top humiliation movies, so be it. He has every right to do so. Some of his scenes are even quite funny. If Amazon wants to get into the political scene by narrowing the market for views they dont share while broadening the base for preferred ideas; such is life. None of these productions would gain any traction without the underlying trend that traditional and patriotic values are passe and racist.

Cohen and Amazon are counting on American ambivalence. It provides the space for them to further a narrative expressed across countless media outlets and by numerous public figures. As long as patriotic Americans fear being openly labeled what many progressives privately think, more hit-pieces will be launched in a barrage to tear down a once-proud and free country in a vain attempt to Build [Communism] Back Better.

Image: Amazon

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The party of diversity and tolerance is becoming almost as intolerant of Jews and of the Jewish state as the KKK. This is perhaps not coincidental, given that many prominent Democrats were actually in the KKK -- including Democrat Senator Robert Byrd of West Virginia, whom the Woke one eulogized when he passed.

And lets not forget the current Democrat governor of Virginia, Ralph Northam -- who styled himself the Coonman in college -- and had his picture taken in a KKK outfit (or a Michael Jackson outfit; hes never admitted publicly which of the two was him).

Enter next-generation Democratic Kluxers like Ilhan Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, who calls Israel a "terrorist state," and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan, who accused Israel of "human rights violations" in a recent tweet regarding its attempt to defend its humans against violations of their lives.

Omar has also accused Jewish Americans of being loyal to Israel first and of money-grubbing and has compared the boycotting of Israel to the boycotting of Nazi Germany in the 1930s.

Tlaib has been under fire for suggesting that Israel cease to exist altogether.

There is also Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, leader of this "squad" of anti-Semites, who has styled Israel an Apartheid state for fighting back against the recent attacks upon it by terrorist bands, including the Hamas, which has been occupying (and terrorizing) the Gaza strip adjacent to Israel, along the Mediterranean Sea.

Over the past two weeks, Hamas and Islamic Jihad -- another radical group almost as radical as AOC and the New Anti-Semites of the Democrat Party -- have been lobbing mortar shells and rockets at Israel, resulting in at least 12 deaths and some 324 injuries on the Israeli side.

Some of the rockets hit a school, others a hospital. A school bus was also hit. Some twelve innocent civilians were killed, among them a six-year-old child.

When Israel shoots back, it sometimes hits civilians, too -- just as Hamas intended. By launching attacks from civilian areas Hamas leaves Israel the choice to let the attacks continue and let its people die or look bad for fighting back.

Hamas has successfully used the threat of more such attacks to blackmail the Israeli government into acceding to an uneasy -- and almost certainly temporary -- ceasefire.

Interestingly, we don't negotiate with terrorists.

But Democrats expect Israel to.

If not, it's "racist."

Squad members have characterized Israels defensive response to the attacks by Hamas and Islamic Jihad; they put forward a resolution to deny the Jewish state further military aid unless it bows to the demands of Hamas and Islamic Jihad.

Self-defense is generally considered to be a foundational human right, without which other rights are meaningless.

But when it comes to Israel...

Jihad Squad. Mission Accomplished.

Its of a piece with Democrats siding with the mostly peaceful protestors of last summer (and perhaps again, this coming summer). Who were merely expressing their sympathy for people like George Floyd... by burning and looting the businesses of people who had nothing to do with what happened to him.

Theirs is a situationally convenient racism. It applies only when it works -- for the Democrats. Like the "mask" worn sometimes by the Woke One and his head priest, Dr. Fauci -- depending on the politics of the situation.

Similarly, the president selected has been serially situationally racist -- as for example when his kids faced having to attend "racial jungle" schools back in the day. Under the rug, please. Let's not talk about that anymore. Urged by the same people who never stop talking about political opponents' racial gaffes, no matter how long ago.

Biden didn't care much about the "predators" -- two guesses who he meant by that -- he sought to come down hard on when he was agitating for "tough on crime" laws back in the '90s.

Uncle Joe has been around a long time -- just not long enough to remember. Or rather, he wants everyone else to forget.

Meanwhile, the barrages go on. Of open hostility of one of America's two major political parties to the state of Israel. The party that almost completely controls the federal government. It's so alarming even lifelong Democrats like attorney Alan Dershowitz are publicly stating what has become all-too-obvious.

In a recent interview with Newsmax, he described Ocasio-Cortez's recent comments and actions as "purely anti-Semitic," pointing out that Israel is the "only non-Apartheid state in the Middle East," citing Jordan's "not permitting Jews to buy property," Saudi Arabia "separating people according to religion," adding that "there is nothing Israel could ever do that's right for her and there's nothing Israel's enemies can ever do that's wrong for her."

Dershowitz is right about that but stops short of mentioning the much deeper wrong -- the silent complicity of the leadership of the Democrat Party, especially that of the president -- who has yet to call out the Squad and other racist Democrats such as Bernie Sanders (though Jewish himself, Sanders seems to hate the Jewish state almost as much the terrorists lobbing rockets at it from behind a human shield of situationally convenient civilians).

Ironically, the former president -- a steadfast supporter of Israel -- has been silenced by the Big Tech allies of the Israel-haters within the Democrat Party, who've justified their curb stomping of his right to speak in defense of Israel, citing his "hateful" speech.

The halting effrontery of this is matched only by the incandescent cognitive dissonance. But then, Democrats have always been known for putting expedience over principles. They want diversity -- when it suits.

Are racist, when it works.

And we're not supposed to notice.

Image: zeevveez

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Ive been writing a great deal about buyers remorse. But just when I think Ive said everything that needs to be said on the subject, it suddenly gets even worse. President Asterisks poll numbers are going south faster than a Minnesota snowbird in October. But, not to be undone, President-elect Harris is racing old Joe to the bottom of the scale. Even liberals are starting to disclose how truly nasty and unlikeable the duo really are. Has Joe managed to red pill the population?

In our modern-day version of The Matrix, the left has been attempting to blue pill us with their incessant propaganda. However, some are experimenting with the red pill. Theyre opening their eyes and seeing the truth for the first time. Its the blue pill for the leftist Kool-Aid and the red pill for truth and reality -- a rather appropriate color choice -- no?

The blue pill provides comfort -- at least in the short term. It dulls our sense of reality and inhibits our ability to reason. It provides a sense of security -- even if its only an illusion. The blue pill allows us to accept:

That America was founded by evil men for evil purposes

That individuals are ill-prepared to make smart decisions

That individual liberty is an impediment to utopia

That the killing of human beings is not murder, if done in the womb

That human beings control the weather

That science is settled except when applied to biology (humans are the only species in which DNA is not a determinant of gender)

Conversely, the red pill offers a life of struggle. It requires that we cope with the world as it really is -- not as we wish it were. It allows us to choose our own path. We can languish in sloth -- with 200 cable channels at our fingertips. Or we can strive for greatness. The choice is ours, but the red pill requires us to accept:

That liberty is a higher priority than safety and security

That we are responsible for the conduct of our own lives

That we accept accountability for our own successes and failures

That there are no victim classes  only outcomes which we individually determine

A number of years ago, my employer sent me to attend a seminar. The attendees included people from consumer goods manufacturers, the biomedical industry, and one defense contractor -- me. The instructor started the seminar by having everyone introduce themselves and describe what their work involved. When I said that I was a defense contractor, the instructor snidely commented, Oh, peace is your profession. It was a reference to the slogan the Strategic Air Command adopted in 1957. I responded, No. Supporting those who defend liberty is our business. The whole class erupted in laughter. Thats when I realized that for many people, defending liberty was considered an obsolete and absurd notion. It seems the blue pill has been in general use for a while now.

All Joe needed to do was provide normalcy rather than demand unity -- and issue everyone their daily dose of the blue. Instead, Joe has behaved like an unsupervised child in a candy store, indulging his every wish. He shocked the body politic with too much radicalism, too fast -- and it has awakened the citizenry for a brief moment. Joe red pilled the body politic.

In reality, the blue pill (leftist propaganda) is losing its efficacy. Once people know propaganda is propaganda, they stop believing the propaganda. I know this is a difficult concept for the left to grasp, but when one catches someone lying to them, theyre less likely to believe future lies. The propagandists overplayed their hand. The propaganda is no longer convincing.

At the same time, Joe has hit us with an unprecedented level of radicalism which runs counter to logic and common sense. We need a higher dosage of the blue pill to avoid seeing the truth, at the very time the pill is losing its potency. Some of us have become underdosed. Truth and reality are beginning to intrude on the leftist matrix. Just when weve discovered that weve been lied to, were being asked to believe bigger lies. The populace is getting a glimpse of reality and now must choose -- blue pill or red pill  leftist propaganda or our lying eyes.

We can take the blue pill and choose to continue living in a leftist dreamscape. Its a choice to be subjects in a modern-day Matrix in which our masters feed us, shelter us, and determine every aspect of our lives. Its the life of slaves -- pampered perhaps -- but slaves nonetheless.

Or we can take the red pill and accept that lifes challenges are an inherent part of the human condition. Its a more difficult path -- particularly in the short term. But it offers endless possibilities. I refuse to be anyones subject. I chose to chart my own future. Ill take the red pill.

John Green is a political refugee from Minnesota, now residing in Star, Idaho. He is a retired engineer with 40 years of experience in the areas of product development, quality assurance, organizational development, and corporate strategic planning. He currently writes at the American Free News Network (americanfreenewsnetwork.org). He can be reached at greenjeg@gmail.com.

Image: Sarah Fagg

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Biden toured Cuyahoga Community College, the same school where he was to hold a campaign rally in March 2020 only to have it be the first one canceled due to the pandemic. He cast his return as a symbol of how far the nation has come back, and he tried to make the case that passing his jobs and families plans would further the economys recovery and prepare it for the decades ahead.
In leisure moments mystery stories are captivating. Readers and viewers are eager to watch the solver of the whodunit, able to overcome red herrings, false suspects, locked rooms, misdirection, genre stereotypes, and false alibis.

Since Edgar Allen Poe's The Murders of the Rue Morgue and The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins, there have been many famous fictional detectives, some of whom have achieved legendary status. To name a few of the hundreds of police detectives, and private and amateur sleuths, we have Sherlock Holmes, master of logical reasoning; Philip Marlowe, quintessential hardboiled private eye; Jessica Fletcher, mild-mannered novelist; Inspector Clouseau, bumbling, accident-prone Frenchman; Perry Mason, defense attorney in seemingly indefensible cases; and Morse, in Oxford, lover of ale, classical music, and crossword puzzles.

Some of these detectives appear to be possessed of characteristics of their creators such as the tough-talking Dashiell Hammett, creator of characters Marlowe and Sam Spade. Two detectives who do not resemble their creator are Hercule Poirot and Jules Maigret, who are studies in contrast, as were their creators, the different personalities Agatha Christie and Georges Simenon.

There are four internationally famous modern Belgians. One is Audrey Hepburn, born in Ixelles, not Hollywood. A second is Django Reinhardt, great guitarist, born in Liberchies. The third is Georges Simenon, prolific novelist born in Lieges, son of an insurance clerk. The fourth is Hercule Poirot, born in a small hamlet in or near the town of Spa, the creation of Agatha Christie, who appears in 33 novels, 2 plays, and 65 of her short stories, from 1920 until 1975. Poirot had an extraordinarily long life, almost double the normal span.

Hercule Poirot is a former member of the Belgian police force who left his country during World War I. He resides in a spacious apartment in fashionable London and becomes a private detective. He is a small man, about five feet five inches, with a perfectly egg-shaped head; green eyes, "shining like a cat's"; and a stiff, military, upward curled waxed mustache with which he is always fiddling. He is elegant in an old-fashioned way, always appears well-groomed and carefully dressed, wearing patent leather shoes of which he takes great care, and using pince-nez reading glasses. He is obsessed with neatness and order, always arranging things wherever he is and brushing real or imaginary dust off himself.

Poirot emphasizes his identity as a Belgian, not a Frenchman, probably a reflection of the sympathy in Britain for "plucky Belgium" in World War I. Yet he is at pains to punctuate his English with French expressions  almost everyone is "mon ami"  in effect deliberately speaking inaccurate broken English to put people off their guard. He has definite opinions, strong dislikes for boats, air travel, beer, and English cooking, but likes steam trains and is fond of Mozart and Bach.

Above all, Poirot prides himself on his intellect, the "little grey cells," to solve a case. He has little, if any, use for fingerprints or footprints, but is concerned with the nature of the victim and the psychology of the murderer. He gets people to talk: "In the long run people are bound to give themselves away." In speaking of his solution in the book The Murder of Roger Ackroyd, Poirot remarks, "Everything is simple, if you arrange the facts methodically."

Poirot is helped, much of the time, by Captain Arthur Hastings, a comedy sidekick, who served in World War I, an easygoing individual who resembles Dr. Watson, associate of Sherlock, with his frequent fanciful hypotheses, as well as his military background and penchant for gambling. Poirot also depends for material help on his secretary, Miss Lemon, an incredibly efficient person: anything she mentions is worth consideration. He always solves the crime.

One can admire Poirot, but can one love him? He is charming but has an immense ego, is culpable of linguistic affectation, obsessive-compulsive, as one actor, Ken Branagh, who played the role, called him. He is self-described as the greatest detective in the world. He is punctual, exact to the minute. He is smug, referring to himself in the third person, explainable perhaps to "achieve a healthy distance from his own genius." He uses his knowledge of human nature to find the guilty party in his quaint and fastidious manner. He is a loner, though he apparently had a girlfriend in his youth. He leads a comfortable middle-class life, above all with his frequent teas, "tisanes."

A more agreeable person, almost the exact opposite in personality of Poirot, is Maigret, the creation of Georges Simenon in 75 novels. Simenon was a prolific and speedy writer, as well as an indefatigable philanderer, publishing 193 novels under his own name and 200 others under different pseudonyms. For him, writing was not so much a pleasure or composed in the hope of an easy living, but was a vocation, a renunciation, if not a sickness and a curse. Simenon has a flat, terse prose style, a simple vocabulary, no fine writing. He worked, as his character Maigret does, as an impressionist by little touches.

Like Inspector Morse, a cult figure in Oxford mysteries known by only his surname, Maigret never uses his first name, Jules. He comes from the village of Saint-Fiacre in the Auvergne and joins the police force in Paris at age 22, patrolling the mean, back streets of the capital, collecting raw material. Maigret appears first, aged 45, in 1931 at the iron stove in the police headquarters, and lasts until the final novel in 1972, when he refuses promotion to head the police judiciaire. Unlike Poirot, whose milieu is high society and luxury, Maigret's world is one of cafes and bars, bistros, dives, seedy hotels, and imbibing beer and Calvados. He gets out of the office, soaks up the atmosphere, and discovers different worlds with each new investigation. He waits and observes.

Maigret is introduced as a big, bony man, slightly overweight, with iron muscles. His behavior is laid back and laconic. He tends to be underestimated by his peers in the police force. His basic method is to understand the motivations of his opponents, to understand the individuals. Maigret is not the person for dramatic action or pursuit, but rather for observation of the psychology of his adversaries. There are rarely, if any, great dramatic startling revelations or ingenious plot twists.

The main point of Maigret is that he is ordinary, almost obsessively so. In this, he is unlike many other fictional detectives, flamboyant, with a strong ego, attracting attention, ambitious. In contrast, Maigret is dull, but delightfully so, self-effacing , the quiet observer of motives and passions that drive individuals to commit murder. He returns home every night to have dinner with his wife. He appears to be content with good plain food but occasionally is a gourmet with elaborate dishes, such as the pintadeau en croute. He invariably, resembling Sherlock Holmes, smokes a pipe. During his investigations, he blends into his surroundings, absorbing impressions and the lives and preferences of characters.

Maigret has no outstanding intellectual gifts or physical ability, no eccentricities or mannerisms a la Poirot, no unusual characteristics, except being dull and domesticated. He does not propound theories or examine ballistic or forensic reports, or scrutinize timetables or fingerprints, but looks into the lives of people. In essence, he solves the mysteries of people. He begins every investigation in a different place or profession about which he has to learn.

Maigret has a devoted staff of three assistants who manage his needs and who search for clues while he quietly studies the situation with patience and by a process of intuition. He lives in a modest third-floor apartment with his wife but has no children.

Simenon says of him that he does not take himself for a superman or consider himself infallible. He mistrusts evidence, patiently strives to understand, aware that the most apparent motives are not always the deepest ones. His main gift is insight into human nature, how people, killer and victim, behave and inquiring into the psychology of his adversaries, their motives, and passions.

What is important is atmosphere, people, faces. Maigret's concern is human emotion, individuals compelled by passion to commit crimes, and Maigret sometimes finds it difficult to assign guilt. Unlike Poirot, he does not boast and does not always achieve or want real victories. Maigret's gift is understanding human character, and he possesses sympathy, understanding, even affection for others. In this, he is more likable than Poirot. He strives for meaning and truth but often ends in sadness.

Maigret is a more likable character than Poirot, but both are enjoyable as civilized figures devoid of the violence and mayhem in modern crime thrillers.

Image via Pexels.

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The nation of Israel and the Arab occupants of the Gaza Strip have just concluded another of the seemingly endless series of bloody squabbles and cease-fires in a long struggle to settle who rightfully should occupy and control the land.

What is new here? Not much. Gleaned from experience, cease-fire merely means time to bury the dead, tend the injured, sweep up the rubble, restock the arsenals, prepare for the next saber-rattling.

Since the 1948 founding of the modern nation state of Israel, this area has been the subject of worldwide debate and years of violent skirmishes between that nation and its neighbors, and between its Jewish citizens and Arab residents. To the Israelis it is their reinstating the nation status of the Jewish ancestral homeland. To the Arabs, its seizure and occupation by invading colonists.

Which side is correct? In truth, an intellectually honest appraisal of Israel the nation will encompass a horizon of more than three thousand years. The nineteenth century British prime minister, Sir Benjamin Disraeli, reportedly once quipped, responding to anti-Semitic remarks by a member of Parliament, Yes, I am a Jew. And when the ancestors of the right honorable gentleman were brutal savages in an unknown island, mine were priests in the Temple of Solomon.

That would be King Solomon, administrator of Solomonic wisdom, and son of King David, slayer of the giant, Goliath, that murderous chief of Israels mortal enemy, the Philistine tribe. This, Jerusalems First Temple, was completed circa 957 BCE, well after the Israelites had consolidated the city as the center of their kingdom.

Despite this eastern Mediterranean shore having been the site of political and military turbulence over the centuries, Jews have kept a continuous presence there. Clearly, one should judge with ardent skepticism assertions that todays Israelis, direct descendants of those Israelites, are somehow meddlesome trespassers in a land long inhabited by both Jews and Arabs. Jews are, themselves, no strangers to seizure and occupation.

It comes as no surprise that it takes unwavering resolve, cultural cohesion, and preparedness to defend a peoples uninterrupted sovereignty over a parcel of land for three millennia. No group has done it yet, the Israelites being no exception. First was the breakup into the northern kingdom, Israel, and the southern counterpart, Judah. Then came centuries under varied foreign interference. There was the Assyrian siege, the Babylonian exile, then limited freedom under Persian emperor Cyrus, to be terminated by the Greeks with their conquest of Jerusalem by Alexander the Great.

The Maccabean Revolt produced about a century of autonomy, ending with the siege and conquest of Jerusalem by Pompey. Judah became the Roman province of Judea, ruled for decades by the Herods and local prefects, strictly beholden to the Caesars.

Uneasy existence under Roman rule led to the Jewish populations Great Revolt of 66 CE. Their crushing defeat came four years later when powerful Roman legions completely destroyed Jerusalem. They razed the Second Temple, the 4th century BC replacement of the original structure Babylon destroyed. All that remains of this magnificent edifice, expanded and refurbished by Herod, is the Western Wall, a site revered by Jews, Christians, and Muslims.

Decades later, Emperor Hadrian visited the ruined city and ordered its rebuilding as a classic Roman town, named Aelia Capitolina, and outfitted for worship of Roman, Greek, and Egyptian gods. Its paganization and new restrictions on Jewish practices led in 132 CE to the powerful revolt under a formidable Jewish commander, Simon Bar Kokhba. The enraged Hadrian responded with an overwhelming and murderous scorched earth suppression, with death to hundreds of thousands from battle, fires, starvation, and disease. Myriad Jewish settlements were erased. Though Jews would still dwell in the countryside, they were banished from and forbidden to enter their city, now the pagan Aelia.

The final insult was Hadrians cunningly-ordered renaming of Judea to Palaestina  todays Palestine  after the Jews ancient enemies, the Philistines.

What wisdom can we gain from this narrative? Unquestionably, its See what happens when a sovereign nation fails to control its borders? (Food for thought.)

This spurred the Diaspora, from gradual dispersion to exile from the Jewish millennial homeland. Once the possessors of their own nation, their capital city, and its Temple  the nerve center of culture, spirituality, morality, and Jewish identity  they lost them to the arrogant whims of a progression of foreign despots. And it was all the consequence of their determination to declare their independence and right to self-governance.

For eighteen centuries they would be strangers in strange lands, sometimes guardedly accepted, other times forced to flee or else  the Sephardic expulsion from Spain, the pogroms of eastern Europe, the catastrophically demonic final solution by Hitlers Nazis.

But with the piercing thorns of exile have also come sweet fruits. The years of hardship and trial have tempered and sharpened this people, making them hardened, resourceful, and ingenious. They have absorbed essential practices and methods of host cultures, endowing them with commanding mastery in arts, sciences, technology, industry, and social, political, and military leadership.

Through it all, they have kept and cherished their culture and identity. And they have preserved their longing for an end to exile and return to their homeland, often singing in their rituals of faith, Next Year in Jerusalem!

Israel is once again a sovereign nation. But in the cruelest of ironies, with their return  centuries in the making  they are now branded as invaders by anti-Semites everywhere. Unwelcome as they were in other lands, they are now smeared as unwelcome in their own.

And mores the pity. With the rich distillation of intellectual and practical treasures they bring, they turn a long underdeveloped region into a fertile treasure  to the benefit of Jews and Arabs, alike  and are rewarded with ingratitude, jealousy, and resentment.

Todays prime minister of ascendant Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, epitomizes this rich distillation. Born in Tel Aviv to a family of religious and intellectual leaders, he was educated in Jerusalem and the United States, with college and advanced degrees from Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He speaks English with a Philadelphia accent, and knows the American psyche intimately. Veteran of an elite special forces unit of the Israel Defense Forces, he participated in numerous defensive and rescue missions. He lost a brother to Operation Entebbe and suffered his own wounds of war. He knows well the imperative  and the human cost  of a nation fighting for its life.

The advantage, after three millennia of hard experience from busybody outsiders, goes to the Israelis. They have founded an advanced first-world nation with a civil society governed democratically, with rights and liberties guaranteed to all citizens. Their foes, the nihilistic Hamas and its hateful and jealous Iranian sponsors are no match. Nor are the self-righteous, virtue signaling anti-Semites of the world in the same moral class.

It was in Jerusalems Temple that a Jew from Nazareth spoke to the Pharisees, regarding the Law and the Prophets: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.

Amen. The Law of Love is the Law of Peace. Without love, there can be no peace; without peace there is no love.

IMAGE: Diorama of Jerusalem in the Second Temple period at the Israel Museum by Chris Yunker. CC BY 2.0.

(Correction: This article was updated because it was Pompey, not Herod the Great who conquered Judea.)

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Christopher Rufo's fame as the person who exposes government agencies and corporations that have bought into Critical Race Theory (CRT) is growing, and that's a good thing  knowing he's there means that employees forced to participate in CRT "training" are beginning to see him as a way to expose their employers' grotesquely un-American (and quite illegal) racist programs. The latest example of this pernicious program comes from Lockheed Martin, which is the largest defense contractor in America  thanks to taxpayer funding.

CRT is the American response to Marx's theory that capitalists were exploiting workers, a situation that could be solved only by erasing capitalists. Because that theory never worked in America, where economic mobility has always meant that this generation's workers can be the next generation's capitalists, the Marxists came up with a new theory. As Rufo has written:

But rather than abandon their political project, Marxist scholars in the West simply adapted their revolutionary theory to the social and racial unrest of the 1960s. Abandoning Marx's economic dialectic of capitalists and workers, they substituted race for class and sought to create a revolutionary coalition of the dispossessed based on racial and ethnic categories.

While the 1960s effort to impose CRT on society failed thanks to Nixon restoring stability to America, CRT never went away. Instead, it incubated in academia, bursting forth in the last year or two, with a capitalist gloss that makes its proponents (e.g., Ibram X. Kendi, Robin DiAngelo, etc.) very wealthy.

In its new iteration, Whites are irredeemably racist and evil. Equality is a trap because White societal dominance means that the other races (and sexualities) will never be able to catch up. Forced equity is the only answer, and one way to pave the way for that to happen is to force Whites to remove themselves from society, from the economy, from politics, and from any other area in which they can be seen to have an advantage. Whites are embracing CRT, if they're true believers, as a way to make obeisance, or, if they're just fearful, as a way to buy off the leftists.

Christopher Rufo has the latest example, which is what's happening at Lockheed Martin:

SCOOP: @LockheedMartin, the nations largest defense contractor, sent key executives to a three-day white male reeducation camp in order to deconstruct their white male culture and atone for their white male privilege.



I've obtained internal documents that will shock you.  Christopher F. Rufo  (@realchrisrufo) May 26, 2021

The program was led by the consulting firm White Men As Full Diversity Partners, which specializes in helping white males awaken together. The participants included a former three-star general and the vice president of production for the $1.7 trillion F-35 fighter jet program. pic.twitter.com/x5YU2bBNbn  Christopher F. Rufo  (@realchrisrufo) May 26, 2021

To begin, the diversity trainers led a free association exercise, asking the Lockheed employees to list connotations for the term white men. The trainers wrote down old, racist, privileged, anti-women, angry, Aryan Nation, KKK, Founding fathers, guns, guilty, cant jump. pic.twitter.com/7FI7uqegJs  Christopher F. Rufo  (@realchrisrufo) May 26, 2021

The trainers then asked whats in it for white men, listing responses: I wont get replaced by someone who is a better full diversity partner, [I will] improve the brand, image, reputation of white men, and I [will] have less nagging sense of guilt that I am the problem. pic.twitter.com/DSRhT55XQy  Christopher F. Rufo  (@realchrisrufo) May 26, 2021

White Men As Full Diversity Partners argues that the roots of white male culture include traits such as rugged individualism, a can-do attitude, hard work, operating from principles, and striving towards successwhich are devastating to women and minorities. pic.twitter.com/DgeiOAJrFG  Christopher F. Rufo  (@realchrisrufo) May 26, 2021

Next, participants were asked to repeat and internalize 50 white privilege statements, including: My culture teaches me to minimize the perspectives and powers of people of other races; I can commit acts of terrorism, violence or crime and not have it attributed to my race. pic.twitter.com/uA8tZXajFi  Christopher F. Rufo  (@realchrisrufo) May 26, 2021

Participants then repeated and internalized 59 male privilege statements, including: My earning potential is 15-33% higher than a womans; My reproductive organs are not seen as the property of other men, the government, and/or even strangers because of my gender. pic.twitter.com/NFC4vc53us  Christopher F. Rufo  (@realchrisrufo) May 26, 2021

Next, participants repeated and internalized 59 heterosexual privilege statements, including: I am not asked to think about why I am straight; I can have friendships with or work around children without being accused of recruiting or molesting them. pic.twitter.com/fFv68gxSpP  Christopher F. Rufo  (@realchrisrufo) May 26, 2021

Finally, the white males read a series of Im tired statements from fictitious racial minorities and women, including: Im tired of being Black; Im tired of Black boys/girls being murdered; Im tired of ... the concept that we should be colorblind. pic.twitter.com/DzpWlaftvx  Christopher F. Rufo  (@realchrisrufo) May 26, 2021

This is pure neoracism from a company that receives billions of taxpayer dollars every year.



I call on the United States Senate to launch an immediate inquiry into the racist practices at @LockheedMartin. We must shut this down before it endangers our national security.  Christopher F. Rufo  (@realchrisrufo) May 26, 2021

This is pure neoracism from a company that receives billions of taxpayer dollars every year.



I call on the United States Senate to launch an immediate inquiry into the racist practices at @LockheedMartin. We must shut this down before it endangers our national security.  Christopher F. Rufo  (@realchrisrufo) May 26, 2021

(To help Rufo with his important work, you can donate here.)

What Lockheed Martin is doing violates both the Constitution and the Civil Rights Act of 1964  and you, the taxpayer, are on the hook for these violations. Trump tried to put a stop to CRT in the federal government or in corporations that the federal government funds, but one of Biden's first acts was to reinstate CRT. The only thing that's going to stop it now is lawsuits and employees getting the courage to say "no."

In the years after the Civil War, the White majority in America discriminated against Blacks, which was a foul blot on America for which we're still paying. It ended when enough Whites realized it was wrong to change the law and shame the practice. What happens, though, if the Black minority in America (only 13% of the population) gains the upper hand and discriminates against the Whites? Not only is that objectively evil, but it also creates the conditions of a violent explosion of the types seen in Rwanda or Syria. We are heading into dangerous territory and need to stop immediately.

Image: Lockheed Martin White Men's Caucus. Twitter screen grab.

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Something is deeply wrong with the mind of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Toni Williams, writing at Victory Girls, has her number:

AOC has proven to be emotionally fragile and uses that fragility as a politically manipulative tactic. Who could ever forget her fake crying in an empty parking lot when she was trying to drag President Donald Trump for putting kids in cages at the border? Sandy Ocasio-Cortez sobbed during the Congressional testimony of a migrant mother whose 19 month old daughter died of a lung infection weeks after the child's release from the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (I.C.E.). The video is here. Miss Ocasio-Cortez has certainly used the January 6, 2020 Capitol breach to her political advantage. She wasn't actually in the Capitol building at the time of the riot, she was in her office blocks away. But, she encountered a law enforcement officer and was traumatized.

Now she is claiming that the trauma she experienced because someone was banging on her office door has her in therapy. And she has the unbelievable gall to liken what she and other members of Congress experienced that day to having effectively "served in war." She did so in an interview with Maria Hinojosa of Latino U.S. that lasted almost three-quarters of an hour. If you can stand that much narcissism, listen to the whole thing here. But for our purposes, this brief summary in Business Insider will suffice:

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez revealed Friday she's attending therapy after the "extraordinarily traumatizing" January 6 Capitol insurrection. The New York Congresswoman told the public radio show Latino USA that she's learning how to "slow down" after the attack, which resulted in the deaths of five people including a police officer. "After the 6th, I took some time and it was really [Rep.] Ayanna Pressley when I explained to her what happened to me, like the day of, because I ran to her office and she was like, 'you need to recognize trauma'," Ocasio-Cortez said, according to The Independent. (snip) In her interview with Latino USA, Ocasio-Cortez said that the insurrection was deeply traumatizing for many members of Congress, who effectively "served in war."

Toni Williams points to Michael Waltz, a representative from Florida and a full-bird colonel and Green Beret, who shamed AOC:

AOC doesnt know what its like to come under attack by machine gun fire, mortars or RPGs. She hasnt seen the horror of roadside IED explosions on bystanders & children. She hasnt lost fellow soldiers on the battlefield or seen friends permanently disfigured by Taliban attacks.  Rep. Mike Waltz (@michaelgwaltz) May 25, 2021

If she wanted to find out what it is really like to serve in war, she could ask these House colleagues:



Twitter.

Now, I am not a psychiatrist or a veteran, much less a combat veteran, but Cortez's drama-queening here strikes me as sick. My AT colleague, J.R. Dunn, whose range of knowledge continually delights and astounds me, introduced us yesterday to the concept of Histrionic Personality Disorder, which is officially recognized by the American Psychiatric Association.

According to Wikipedia, which (so far) has had no reason to edit the entry for political purposes, the disorder is

characterized by a pattern of excessive attention-seeking behaviors, usually beginning in early childhood, including inappropriate seduction and an excessive desire for approval. People diagnosed with the disorder are said to be lively, dramatic, vivacious, enthusiastic, and flirtatious. Women are diagnosed with HPD roughly 4 times as often as men. It affects 23% of the general population and 1015% in inpatient and outpatient mental health institutions . HPD lies in the dramatic cluster of personality disorders. People with HPD have a high desire for attention, make loud and inappropriate appearances, exaggerate their behaviors and emotions, and crave stimulation. They may exhibit sexually provocative behavior, express strong emotions with an impressionistic style, and can be easily influenced by others. Associated features include egocentrism, self-indulgence, continuous longing for appreciation, and persistent manipulative behavior to achieve their own needs.

I make no claim to be able to diagnose anyone, but this shoe sure does seem to fit Sandy from the (Riverdale) block.

Maybe she and Senator Richard Blumenthal can swap combat memories.

To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here.
Early on, Republicans, beginning with Sen. Tom Cotton and expanding to include Tucker Carlson, Donald Trump, Mike Pompeo, and many others (including this site), have said the wet market origin theory for COVID didn't stand up and that it made much more sense to look at the nearby virology and military research labs. The media ridiculed this view, and the tech tyrants aggressively censored it. Now it looks as if that's exactly what happened  and the Biden administration's response has been completely awful.

COVID has reshaped the world. Starting at home, it severely damaged the economy, profoundly damaged young people, hastened the elderly to their graves, and unleashed BLM's madness. Perhaps the most significant effect of COVID isn't either that people or our economy died. Instead, Democrats weaponized COVID to destroy Trump's glide path to re-election, both by smearing him and, more importantly, by giving Democrats an untrammeled path to massive election fraud.

In just four months, Biden has been the greatest catastrophe ever to befall America. He's erased our borders, given the economy the kill shot, increased racial tensions, taken myriad steps to import and enfranchise a new population, weakened our military, and kowtowed to China. That he is in the White House is solely because of COVID.

Although the rest of the world didn't have the political earthquake America did, death and economic destruction have followed in COVID's wake. And China, taking advantage of the disarray, has aggregated more power.

It's becoming clear that, whether deliberately or through carelessness, the Chinese government was responsible for COVID infecting humans and, once the virus was out of the lab, for weaponizing it against the rest of the world. Just recently, a professor linked to the Chinese Communist Party boasted that China had successfully accomplished a form of world conquest through biological warfare. At this point, no one can say he's wrong.

Last fall, long after President Trump and Mike Pompeo had been pointing to China's labs as the source of the virus, Trump began the process of investigating China's role in COVID's origins. A new report, though, reveals that Biden shut down that inquiry.

To the new administration's chagrin, China's responsibility has become so clear that shameless Democrats are embracing the theory. Facebook has even stopped deleting every single post that blamed China. With incredible chutzpah, leftists are claiming that it was Trump who forced them to debunk the theory earlier...by saying China was responsible.

Faced with the new narrative, Biden has created another investigation  working through the World Health Organization, which has been a China shill from the start. Matt Whitlock managed to tie it all together in just a few words:

This is a genuine blockbuster story -- Biden shut down an investigation into whether the pandemic started with a lab leak in Wuhan.



And he didn't call for this 90 day probe until that story broke. https://t.co/EiMwJVECDt  Matt Whitlock (@mattdizwhitlock) May 26, 2021

What should be happening is that China becomes a pariah nation. Every country in the world should begin the process of isolating it as completely as it was isolated before 1972 when Nixon went to China. Instead, we're already watching the cover-up unfold.

Tucker Carlson has a great round-up of the whole story, so I'll leave you with that:

To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here.
Apparently, all would be paradise in crime-pit San Francisco if it weren't for all those lazy, racist cops who are persecuting poor, heroic Chesa Boudin, the city's leftist do-nothing district attorney.

That's the word from young Chesa, stepson of Bill Ayers, son of a terrorist convicted of killing a black cop, and former Hugo Chavez adviser, who's suddenly found himself unpopular in the city and facing a voter recall.

According to KPIX5 CBS of San Francisco (hat tip: LegalInsurrection.com):

District Attorney Chesa Boudin claimed Sunday that placing blame on his prosecutors for crime in San Francisco's neighborhoods is miscast and should be focused on the police officers union and a poor clearance rate of crimes that are reported to police. In an interview with KPIX 5's Ken Basida, Boudin didn't mince words when it came to a public perception that he is soft on crime  a belief that has spawned two recall campaigns demanding his removal from office. "Come down to the courthouse and watch what we're doing," he said. "Any day of the week, any courtroom. You will see my veteran prosecutors handling cases ranging from shoplifting to murder and doing it with dignity and integrity and doing with zealousness." Boudin said the blame should be placed further down the investigative chain. "The reality is the POA (police officers union) needs someone to point the finger at and this isn't a new issue," he said. "Look they were blaming (Vice President) Kamala Harris and attacking her when she was the district attorney. This is an age old problem in San Francisco because the POA wants to get away without doing their job. They want to get away with allowing their officers to send racist text messages, to use excessive force against the community and to engage in systematic violations of civil rights of Black and brown drivers on our streets. And I'm pushing back and demanding that they modernize, that they reform and that they respect all the members of our community."

Why, those dirty, racist cops! All they want to do is send racist text messages and plot new ways to violate civil rights among themselves! Besides that, in this twisted Chesa logic, cops are also against catching crooks.

Chesa, on the other hand, is pure. The only people to blame here for the crime surge are those racist cops he depends on for cases.

Up until now, Chesa had been saying there was no crime upsurge in his "restorative justice" approach to criminal prosecutions as the city's district attorney. He vowed to never prosecute "quality of life" crimes, such as drunks peeing in people's doorways, hookers with their "traffic" trashing apartment livability, and local miscreants for breaking windows. He's been horrific as anti-Asian hate attacks, largely from black attackers, have skyrocketed. In addition, he's letting the criminals out of jail, giving them amazing new opportunities to commit new crimes, and sure enough, they haven't wasted that golden opportunity.

Should it surprise anyone that with Chesa refusing to prosecute heinous cases as well as quality-of-life "broken windows" crimes, the broken windows would start to multiply, and the bigger crimes would follow? That's the lesson of New York City in the 1990s, and precisely why Rudy Giuliani was elected mayor to get rid of it, which he did.

Should it surprise anyone that cops would retire at his desk, given the fact that Chesa is no longer prosecuting either quality of life crimes or quite a few others? Why should cops stick their necks out to catch dangerous crooks if Chesa is not going to prosecute them? Chesa seems to think incentives don't matter and that cops who'd rather retire at their desks, pursue a reactive police approach, and await a fat city pension might just be responding to Chesa's incentives.

Chesa's statement on the cops is an amazingly hostile one, too. Making the phony claim that cops would rather send racist text messages than enforce the law is not going to build any bridges with this bunch. I used to interact with the San Francisco cops a lot in the 1990s, where the cops themselves used to explain to me and my newspaper editor at the time, the late great Victor Miller of the New Mission News, that lefty policies generally made them want to just wait it out on crime and focus on protecting their pensions. That was 25 years ago, and it was going on even then among cops in the crime-plagued Mission District. One can only imagine what it's like now with radical left-wing Chesa in the saddle.

His attempted self-justification, with the claims that all the criticisms directed at him were also directed at Kamala Harris when she had the D.A. job, is comical. Kamala was all in on letting all the crooks out of jail, same as Chesa. Anyone see her anywhere near the border?

If Chesa is to be believed, lazy, racist cops are the entire reason for San Francisco's crime surge rather than his own leftist policies, which create chaos, the exact thing his moneybags, George Soros, is famous for creating. Chesa's targets are always cops, the same people who busted his terrorist dad and vile stepfather until the latter got let out by some dumb jury  "guilty as hell, free as a bird, America is a great country." Yet in Chesa's ridiculous statement, blaming everyone but himself for the crime surge, cops are the problem.

Were Chesa able to take the role of his hero, Hugo Chavez, and be communist dictator for a day, cops would be defunded; racism would end; and suddenly, all the shoplifting would stop at San Francisco's retailers. Organized crime would pack up and go someplace else. Home burglaries would vanish. Auto-boosting would cease. Racist assaults on Asian and Asian-American elderly people would end, and everyone would sing "Kumbaya." "Camping" would stop. Bums would seek rehab. Drunks peeing in doorways would employ flush toilets and all would be a Venezuelan paradise.

What we have here is a bawl-baby. He can't even own up to the consequences of his own bad policies. He blames the cops, even after a lifetime narrative of claiming that police enforce the law too aggressively. He's up for a recall now and it's obvious the voters, at least the ones who signed the petition, can see right through it. Far from being a man's man, or at least a man's leftist, Chesa is trying to gaslight voters and blame people he never liked in the first place for his own misdoings, like some embarrassing toddler. Far from being strong, he's nothing but a snowflake.

Image: KPIX5, screen shot, from shareable video on site.

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We may never be able to uncover evidence to convict Chinese President Xi Jinping for crimes against humanity for the 2020 world pandemic that resulted in 3.5 million deaths. However, there is sufficient evidence to hold China financially responsible for unleashing the coronavirus on the world.

The Republic of China has shown a disregard for human life, starting with Chairman Mao's "Great Leap Forward" which resulted in the death of up to 45 million people between 1959 and 1960. The policy of one child per family enacted in 1980 resulted in up to 35 million babies being aborted simply because they were girls. Chinese leaders sacrificing tens of millions of Chinese to achieve their goal of world domination.

A 2007 National Public Radio article titled "List of Problem Chinese Imports Grows" noted that Chinese products accounted for more than 60 percent of the products recalled for health and safety concerns. These products ranged from tires, seafood, toys, toothpaste, and even the drugs we count on. Today, the Chinese fuel the world fentanyl and opioid crisis with their chemical exports while limiting those chemicals in their own country. China puts its profits and goals ahead of the lives of other countries.

A close friend spent a number of years in China managing a high-tech manufacturing facility. After he returned to the U.S., the manufacturing facility's product failure rate skyrocketed. He spent months analyzing data to trace why the failures were occurring. He finally uncovered the truth: the data was falsified and equipment settings were incorrect. Months of product were lost simply for the Chinese managers wanting to "save face."

A National Review article by Joseph Sullivan calculated that the United States loss of intellectual property to be between 2.6 and 0.9 percent of the USA's GDP. This quantifies the loss to the United States and the gain to the Republic of China. But the intellectual property theft comes without China learning the safe handling of that technology. For example, China successfully sent a probe to Mars but could not manage the safe re-entry of its rocket booster to assure no loss of life on Earth.

The Wuhan Institute of Virology was conducting research on many viruses, including coronaviruses. China has claimed that COVID-19 emerged from the "wet markets" of Wuhan, but indications are that it originated in the laboratory. China will not allow outside investigators unlimited access to the Institute or its records and personnel, to determine what happened.

We therefore must use the information before us. China's policy goals are achieved at the expense of millions of Chinese lives. China exports products without concern for the safety and health of other countries. Chinese leaders do not allow open dialogue that threatens the achievement of their policy objectives. China's policy of gaining intellectual property through theft robs the Chinese of opportunities to learn how to use that technology safely. Most likely, this was not the first laboratory incident in China, but the latest most damaging incident that we know of.

We must hold China financially responsible for trillions of dollars in damages to our country and the American people resulting from the pandemic created in the Wuhan Institute of Virology. We recommend that our leaders in Washington: 1) freeze all Chinese assets in the United States immediately and 2) expand the Justice against Sponsors of Terrorism Act to include transnational criminal organizations (including cyber-crime), and transnational environmental contamination organizations (including chemical, biological, and genetic damages). This will allow our government and individuals to seek recovery of damages that occur here from those organizations, no matter where they may reside.

Image: Peter Griffin.

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Except for a passing reference in a New York Times article, May 26, about the threat of a U.S. veto of a Security Council resolution critical of Israel in connection with the recent round of fighting between the Jewish state and Hamas, this writer would not have known that the U.N. was meeting on the subject. (The Times article, "U.S. Is Looking to Rebuild Ties to Palestinians," suggests that a Security Council resolution on the Hamas-Israel fighting had not been drafted.)

But indeed, the Security Council met, as did the General Assembly, on the recent round of fighting between Hamas and Israel  with the media taking scant, if any, notice. The press release on the General Assembly meeting stated:

With the Security Council unable to respond to the worst round of fighting between Israel and the Palestinians in years . . . speakers in the General Assembly today demanded . . . intensified efforts to restart peace talks that advance a two-State Solution to a conflict nearly as old as the United Nations itself.

(The conflict is nearly as old as the United Nations itself because the U.N. has a habit, more than seven decades old, of pulling the belligerent Arabs' chestnuts out of the fire.)

The press release for the General Assembly was inaccurate; the fighting was between Hamas, controlling Gaza, and Israel, not between Israel and the Palestinians, who 1) control the West Bank and 2) are fierce rivals of Hamas. That General Assembly call to "restart peace talks" leading to a "two-state solution" ignores the reality of the Hamas charter, which opposes negotiations with Israel and is committed to jihad (that is, holy war) against the Jewish state.

This writer was also struck by a description, in the long Security Council press release on its May 16 meeting on the fighting between Israel and Hamas, of the representative for the Palestine Authority  appearing for "the State of Palestine." It would seem, therefore, that the United Nations bureaucracy has already come up with its own version of a "two-state solution."

There was some mention at these U.N. meetings of the Hamas practice of firing missiles against the civil population of Israel from missile sites that place Gaza's civilian populations in harm's way, but the focus was on Israel  to stop killing civilians in Gaza, to stop causing disproportionate deaths.

This writer is particularly surprised that the New York Times did not cover the Security Council and General Assembly meetings on the latest round of violence, set off by the Hamas attack on Israel. Previously, some years back, the Times had a bureau covering U.N. news; apparently, no more. But 620 Eighth Avenue is just near the western side of 42nd Street, with the U.N. headquarters across town at First Avenue and 42nd Street. It would not be difficult for the Times to send a reporter across town to cover U.N. debates on fighting between Hamas and Israel. Perhaps the Times has concluded that U.N. debates on the Middle East are a waste of time.

According to the U.N. press release on the Security Council meeting on the Hamas-Israel latest military round, Linda Thomas-Greenfield called on the "parties" to avoid incitement, violence, and "evictions  notably in East Jerusalem  and settlement construction east of the 1967 lines." Here Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield was drawing her focus, and directing no little pressure, on Israel. Her remarks, as summarized in the press release, did not mention, much less condemn, the Hamas policy of making Gaza's civilian population fodder for the purpose of anti-Israel propaganda. By her reference to "evictions," the Biden administration has signaled that ordinary rules for holding real property do not apply to "Palestinians" in East Jerusalem; they are immune to otherwise ordinary rules of rental tenancy that include monthly rent payments. Apparently, for the quick-to-find-fault-with-Israel crowd, good-faith evictions of Palestinians by Jewish landlords are violations of international law  as is this newly developed concept that deaths resulting from retaliatory attack must be in proportion to the losses caused by the belligerent.

It is unclear how the proportionate formula is to be applied. It would seem clear, however, that had it been applied to protect Germany and Japan in World War II, that terrible conflict might still be ongoing.

The Biden administration seems intent on rewarding Hamas for its commitment to jihad, not negotiations, concerning Israel. Notwithstanding this description of Hamas, from Thomas L. Friedman, in the New York Times, May 19: Hamas was "an Islamo-fascist organization without a shred of democratic fiber that is dedicated to destroying the Jewish state and imposing a Tehran-like Islamic regime in Palestine."

And yet, in this column, "For Trump, Hamas and Bibi, It is Always Jan. 6," he suggests a moral equivalency of the former president and Israel with Hamas. Does this reflect invidious blindness or the immature innocence of a babe? One must wonder if the likes of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez would call Hamas "Islamo-fascist "and undemocratic.

The account in the New York Times, May 26, on the Biden administration's intention of becoming "a more neutral mediator" between Israel and Hamas and the Palestinian Authority does not augur well for a lessening of Mid-East tensions. The Times report noted that secretary of state Antony Blinken emphasized the tragic loss of life of Gaza children. Unmentioned was the Hamas practice of putting civilians, including children, in harm's way, as propaganda fodder. The Times also reported that Biden administration "will help finance an enormous reconstruction effort in the Gaza Strip[.]" The administration will apparently do this notwithstanding the likelihood that Hamas will divert this "enormous reconstruction effort" to restore tunnels for aggressive use against Israeli civilians.

The secretary of state was also reported as announcing the reopening of a consulate in Jerusalem to deal with Palestinian affairs and restoring "humanitarian" aid to the Palestinian Authority. In brief, Biden is reversing all the measures by the Trump administration that contained Palestinian revanchism and encouraged the Arab world in general to make peace with Israel.

What next: rescission of U.S. recognition of Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights? The current U.S. diplomatic documents on the Middle East will not be available until 2026  for 25 years if practice is observed. That means the likely disclosure of the Biden administration's sharp tilt toward Israel's enemies will not be disclosed till some of us observers pass on. But the evidence of such a tilt does not require the immediate publication of the current documents on the Middle East conflict, documents marked "Top Secret."

Consider: Biden, more than four months into his presidency, has yet to name an ambassador to Israel. This failure cannot be blamed on diplomatic oversight. Is he using, as a lame excuse, the unsettled nature of the composition of Israel's Knesset? Or is Biden taking his time in naming as his ambassador to Israel someone who is agreeable to the Blame Israel First crowd?

That Times May 26 front page headline says it all: "U.S. Is Looking to Rebuild Ties to Palestinians." The subhead declares: "A Shift in Policy Risks Tensions with Israel." This, certainly, is how AOC and her totalitarian-minded friends would have it.

Poor Joe Biden, held captive by The Squad. And that's not malarkey!

Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0.

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Biden's nominee to head the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, David Chipman, is a longtime gun control advocate. Putting him in charge of the ATF is a guaranteed attack on American's Second Amendment rights. As Wednesday's Senate hearing showed, the guy is also a crackpot and a liar.

If you check out leftist media outlets, including taxpayer-funded NPR, it's clear that Chipman's attraction for Democrats is his commitment to grabbing guns:

Chipman is a veteran of ATF, where he spent 25 years as a special agent. He currently works as a senior policy adviser at Giffords, an organization that advocates for stricter gun laws and is led by former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, D-Ariz., who was gravely wounded in a mass shooting in 2011. As part of Giffords' group, Chipman has pushed for greater regulation of ghost guns. [snip] Chipman has advocated for the federal government to strike a balance that allows law-abiding citizens to own guns for self-defense, hunting and sport while also enabling law enforcement to prevent gun violence. [snip] He added that although all weapons can be dangerous in "the wrong hands," certain firearms are particularly lethal and should be more strictly regulated.

In the second paragraph, you read that Chipman is just a balanced individual who wants to let Americans enjoy their Second Amendment rights but he wants to keep America safe, too. No howitzers for you! But there's something ominous there. Read that last line: he says that "certain firearms are particularly lethal and should be more strictly regulated."

On Wednesday, in response to Ted Cruz's questioning, Chipman admitted what those "particularly lethal" firearms are: AR-15s. As Sen. Tom Cotton noted, Chipman defined AR-15s so broadly that it "would basically cover every single modern sporting rifle in America today. And when it comes to those AR-15s, Chipman wants to ban them all:

WATCH: Sen. Ted Cruz gets Joe Bidens ATF Director nominee David Chipman to admit that he wants to BAN the AR-15, the most popular rifle in America.



With respect to the AR-15, I support a ban. pic.twitter.com/6nDgalAkRj  Steve Guest (@SteveGuest) May 26, 2021

The AR-15 is America's most popular rifle. In 2019, before the world went crazy with COVID and BLM, causing millions of Americans to become first-time gun-owners, a good guess was that there were about 18 million AR-15s in America. There are undoubtedly many, many more now.

AR-15s are popular because they are lovely weapons: easy to use and easy to customize. At the end of the day, though, they are still the classic American rifle, and they don't fire a particularly lethal round. They are almost never used to commit crimes. But Chipman, given power, would seize them.

Chipman's not only an anti-gun fanatic; he's also a liar. Perhaps to justify the government's mass slaughter at Waco in 1993, he's claimed that Branch Davidian members "used 2.50 caliber Barretts to shoot down two Texas Air National Guard helicopters." In fact, while the Branch Davidians shot at helicopters, they failed  and there were no Barretts later discovered at the scene. Chipman wasn't misinformed; he lied, because, as a case agent in the Branch Davidian trial, he knew better.

Showing that he's just a political hack, Chipman absolutely refused to say that he would investigate Hunter Biden for lying on his gun application, which is a clear violation of federal law.

Senator Mike Lee attacked Chipman for attacking new gun-owners during an April 2020 interview, calling them Tiger King wannabes. More importantly, Lee challenged Chipman's disdain for due process and his desire for a Minority Report world in which "criminals" are arrested before committing a crime:

2/2 I find this statement by ATF nominee David Chipman incredibly troubling because  setting aside 2nd Amendment issues  this violates our constitutional requirement for due process.  Mike Lee (@SenMikeLee) May 26, 2021

Chipman's nomination represents a head-on attack against the Second Amendment. If he is confirmed, you can bet that the Biden administration will charge hard down the path that all new tyrannies follow: seizing law-abiding citizens' weapons. Things will not end well if that happens.

Image: Biden ATF nominee David Chipman. Twitter screen grab.

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Thank you to Washington Post columnist Charles Lane for a sane perspective of the recent Hamas-Israel conflict in an otherwise insane world Mr. Lane's level-headed op-ed really provides more news than in the news reporting part of the newspaper. His statement that Hamas "shooting unguided explosives toward civilian populations violates all the norms of warfare" should be in every article on this conflict, but sadly, it is not. Lane continues that the 4,000 Hamas rockets were "more than 4,000 war crimes, or an average of 363 per day."

Mr. Lane is one of the few sources who acknowledges that "of the at least 248 people in Gaza dead, at least some were struck by errant Hamas rockets. Eight civilians, including two of the 67 children in Gaza who have been reported dead, lost their lives in a single such incident," and that's according to a Palestinian Human Rights source! It is quite likely that since there is no free press in Gaza, and Hamas carefully censors what information goes out  so the numbers of casualties from errant rockets could skew much higher.

Mr. Lane also compares the unfortunate deaths of Palestinian civilians to other wars, and it becomes as clear as day that Israel was taking extreme measures to minimize casualties, contrary to the libel published in most U.S. news sources stating the opposite.

Mr. Lane concludes that "Israeli wrongdoing, if any, occurred in the context of a generally professional military operation that was carried out in response to Hamas's rocket attack." Lastly, "Hamas's campaign against Israel and its civilian population, by contrast, consisted of nothing but war crimes, from beginning to end."

Amen and kudos to Mr. Lane.

Image via Pixy.

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The encounter began after Burbank and Collins reported seeing Ellis trying to get into occupied cars at a red light. They cast Ellis as the aggressor, saying he punched the window of their cruiser and attacked them as they got out, according to statements from other officers cited in the charging documents.
[See also Andrea Widburg's post on Joe Biden lying about his involvement with Burisma here.]

Among the Bidens, coincidences abound.

So sure enough, the New York Post, in its daily journalistic diggings, found this beaut from deep inside the bowels of Hunter Biden's abandoned laptop computer.

The Ukrainian energy company that was paying President Biden's son Hunter $1 million a year cut his monthly compensation in half two months after his father ceased to be vice president. From May 2014, Burisma Holdings Ltd. was paying Hunter $83,333 a month to sit on its board, invoices on his abandoned laptop show. But in an email on March 19, 2017, Burisma executive Vadym Pozharskyi asked Hunter to sign a new director's agreement and informed him "the only thing that was amended is the compensation rate." "We are very much interested in working closely together, and the remuneration is still the highest in the company and higher than the standard director's monthly fees. I am sure you will find it both fair and reasonable." After the email, the amount listed on Hunter's monthly Burisma invoices was reduced to $41,500, effective from May 2017.

Gee. Joe in office? The money flows. Joe out of office? Much less cash to be paid. Funny how that happens.

And no, this wasn't based on some oil or natural gas bust going on in Europe, energy prices being volatile things that can affect profits of companies. Nope, prices of natural gas imports in Europe were largely flat at the time (see the second chart on the "interactive" tab), meaning Burisma's profits were likely steady at the time. Burisma is a secretive private company run by Ukrainian oligarchs, so there are no books to look at to check to see if profits were down and everyone had to have a pay cut. In 2017, Burisma was actually expanding operations, which doesn't happen to companies that are losing money, so it's unlikely that that pay cut was based on market conditions.

According to Reuters:

In an upbeat 2017 promotional video, Burisma presents itself as an energy company looking to expand beyond Ukraine's borders. Photographs of Hunter Biden and the other four board members appear over the company's "key corporate governance principles: leadership, efficiency, remuneration and transparency."

Coincidences, coincidences. It sounds as if maybe the company had less use for Hunter with old dad, "the big guy" as Hunter put it, out of office. No office, no influence  sorry, Hunter, you're just not as "expert" as Joe says now that Joe is out of office. Take this salary cut and be happy.

It's an old political game we've seen before, again and again: money flows from someplace to some downwind entity that appears legit whenever the Democrat in power is in office. Money ebbs when there is no influence to be bought.

We saw that with the Clinton Foundation, whose donations collapsed in 2016 when Hillary Clinton was defeated for the presidency by one Donald Trump. She never got over it, and don't imagine that at least some of it was the now vanishing money from people who suddenly weren't so turned on to the Clinton Foundation's Potemkin projects as they claimed they had been before. Remember Haiti? Scandals never turned these donors off, but Hillary Clinton not winning her election most certainly did.

According to a 2018 editorial from Investor's Business Daily:

[T]he most glaring indictment of the Clinton Foundation came from what happened last year, after Hillary Clinton lost the election  and effectively ended her political career. First, the Clinton's almost immediately shuttered the Clinton Global Initiative and laid off 22 employees. Now, fresh financial documents show that contributions and grants to the Clinton Foundation plunged since Hillary lost her election bid. They dropped from $216 million in 2016 to just $26.5 million in 2017  a stunning 88% fall. Throughout Clinton's tenure as Secretary of State, the foundation pulled in an average of $254 million a year. (See the nearby chart below for a timeline.) If the Clinton Foundation was as good as defenders claimed, why did all its big-time donors suddenly lose interest? The only reasonable explanation is that donors weren't interested in what the foundation supposedly did for humanity. They were interested in the political favors they knew their money would buy.

That's modern influence-peddling. Gone are the days of black bags handed to pols under the table. Now it's influence-buyers handing the cash to intermediaries with plausible denial, watching the cash get where it needs to go, all in exchange for...something. Hunter himself said old Joe skimmed 10% off the top in some emails and took a 50% cut in others. The Clinton Foundation, meanwhile, has seen a tiny uptick in donations since the last campaign season. The swamp game continues.

It's disgusting stuff, very unethical, surely illegal, and something the doddering old fraudulently elected president needs to answer some congressional questions about. Hunter's payouts were closely linked to Joe's political fortunes and Hunter admitted that if his name weren't "Biden" the company would probably have no use for him. They didn't even have use for him when Joe was out of office. The whole thing was about leveraging Joe's power of office for personal gain, both for Hunter and Burisma. And now, it's clearer than ever to see.

Photo illustration by Monica Showalter with use of cropped images by Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0, Acaben via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0, PxFuel public domain, ABC News YouTube screen shot, and Voice of America, public domain.

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The COVID-19 pandemic has caused Americans to rethink many processes and practices, especially regarding health care. One hot topic that has been brought into question is the necessity of certificate of need (CON) laws.

These laws require health care facilities or providers to get permission from the state to build new facilities or expand existing operations. Among the many problems with these laws is that they are expensive and time-consuming, deter innovation, increase health care costs, and reduce health care access.

Furthermore, CON laws are rife with cronyism. When existing health care providers don't want competition, they often influence the CON application process to limit entrance of would-be competitors into the medical marketplace.

What's more, during the pandemic, 20 states that enforce CON laws temporarily suspended them.

The Tennessee General Assembly recently passed a bill that would reform the antiquated CON laws currently enforced in the Volunteer State. As of this writing, the bill awaits the governor's signature.

States with CON programs regulate on average 14 medical services, devices, and procedures. Tennessee regulates 23, much higher than the national average.

Writing for the Beacon Center, Lindsay Boyd Killen explains why certificate of need laws in Tennessee should be reformed. "The only irrefutable achievement we can directly attribute to CON laws is their successful creation of a robust hospital cartel that restricts competition in the marketplace and decreases the supply of healthcare services. That's not something to be proud of."

The new bill would reform many aspects of the outmoded policy by rolling back some regulations for certain mental health facilities. However, it would also increase costs for hospitals. The bill would reduce annual fees for nursing homes, ambulatory surgical centers, and home care organizations. The bill would also shorten the lengthy CON approval process.

The proof is in the pudding. Research shows that states with CON have higher costs and fewer hospitals and health facilities. If Tennessee lawmakers repealed the state's CON laws entirely, total health care costs could drop by $223 per person in the Volunteer State. If CON were eliminated completely, Tennessee could have an additional 63 hospitals and 26 more ambulatory surgery centers.

These arbitrary laws do nothing but hamper innovation within the medical marketplace and limit options for patients. CON laws create a conflict of interest that suppresses the health care marketplace. A study from the National Institute for Health Care Reform found that "in five of six states studied, the CON approval process can be highly subjective and tends to be influenced heavily by political relationships rather than policy objectives."

Without question, CON laws in Tennessee cost patients more than just money. They also impair access to quality health care and discourage health care innovation.

If legislators support reforming these burdensome laws because of the negative impacts on constituents, they should support a full CON repeal effort. the bill passed in the Tennessee General Assembly contains several important reforms other states should duplicate. However, it is far from perfect.

It is time to do away with CON laws once and for all. Yet we must remember that this is just a part of the greater health care reform effort that we desperately need.

Christina Herrin (cherrin@heartland.org) is the government relations manager at The Heartland Institute, a nonpartisan, free-market think-tank headquartered in Arlington Heights, Illinois.

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2,11,298 new Coronavirus cases reported in India:- A total number of 2,11,298 new cases of coronavirus are reported in India in the last 24 hours taking the total tally of cases to reach 2,73,69,093. The number of discharges continued to be a high and 2,83,135 people got recovered in the last 24 hours as per the reports from the Union Health Ministry. With 3847 new deaths in the last 24 hours, the total number of deaths are said to be 3,15,235. The total number of discharges in the country due to coronavirus stood at 2,46,33,951 and there are 24,19,907 active cases of coronavirus in India. The total number of people who took up the vaccination doses for coronavirus are 20,26,95,874.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said that the Indian government should procure Pfizer at the earliest to inoculate the children. The World Health Organization said that the variant B.1.617 which was first detected in India is now found in more than 53 countries of the globe. The active cases in the country are currently 9.19 percent of the total infections and the recovery rate of India climbed up to 89.66 percent. The Indian government gave licenses for five other companies to manufacture Liposomal Amphotericin B injections for black fungus after there is a huge shortage for the injection with the sudden rise in the number of black fungus cases.

As per the reports from the Indian Council of Medical Research, the total samples tested in total in the country for coronavirus are said to be 33,69,69,353 and the samples tested yesterday are 21,57,857.
Andover, MA (01810)

Today

Rain, heavy at times, in the morning. Rain ending with partial clearing for the afternoon. High 74F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall near a quarter of an inch..

Tonight

Some clouds. Low 58F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.
PS5 global sales are about to take a positive turn. Which is good news for anyone living outside the US. No matter where you live, purchasing a PS5 hasnt been the easiest task.

Much of this is due to the semiconductor shortage happening around the world, and its impacting more than just Sony. With the launch of the PS5 last Fall, consumers have been met with few opportunities to buy the console. Despite this though, PS5 global sales have definitely been positive for Sony.

Even with stock problems, the company has sold upwards of 8 million units since launch. No small accomplishment, to be sure. But, there are still tons of consumers having trouble finding a place to buy the PS5. Even with more restocks happening at a faster rate than before. Sony cant do much about the shortage of chips, but it can increase the purchase opportunities in other ways. Which PlayStation of America President Jim Ryan says the company is going to be doing.

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PS5 global sales will expand thanks to PlayStation Direct

The PS5 has gone on sale at numerous retailers, but coming direct from PlayStation has been an option for US consumers only. The PlayStation Direct store to be specific, is a US-only online store.

But Ryan says Sony will be expanding that to countries outside the US in the coming months. The process will happen over the next year. So not all locations will have access right away or at the same time. As for the new regions, Sony plans to open PlayStation Direct in the UK, Ireland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, and Belgium.

There are no exact times or dates given here. But with the rollout happening over the next 12 months its likely that at least one of those countries will have access to the store front soon enough.

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Direct channel sales have amassed huge growth for Sony

One of the main reasons Sony is looking to expand PlayStation Direct is because of how well its done. After opening up in 2019, where it made over $5 million in net sales, its only continued to grow.

Last year, net sales ballooned to over $20 million. And Sony is projecting that for 2021, net sales will grow to over $60 million. That shouldnt be too hard of a target after Sony opens up shop in 7 more countries.
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The council was required to submit amendment proposals to the city Budget Office by May 17 to allow Finance Director Jodee Dickinson and her staff enough time to game out the fiscal implications for the budget. The $152 million spending plan has no new tax increases but proposes increases in water, trash pick-up and stormwater fees. It is balanced in part by COVID-19 pandemic relief funds from the federal government.
(ANSA) - ROME, MAY 27 - Prosecutors have said the three people suspected of being responsible for Sunday's cable-car disaster in Piedmont face charges of "extraordinary gravity".

The owner of the company that runs the cable car, the company's director and the service's operational chief have been arrested over the disaster, which killed 14 people, including two children, and left a five-year-old boy fighting for his life.

Prosecutors in the city of Verbania said the cable car's emergency braking system, which should have prevented the disaster after one of the cables snapped, was deactivated deliberately "for economic reasons in total disregard for the most basic safety rules". The emergency braking system was allegedly deactivated to stop it kicking in and halting the service after a series of recent technical problems.

In the warrant for the detention of the three, the prosecutors wrote that the operation chief "admitted to having deliberately and repeatedly inserted brake-blocking devices, deactivating the emergency braking system".

They said the director and the owner did not allow "the necessary maintenance operations" to take place.

A judge in the city of Verbania will decide on Thursday whether to grant a request from prosecutors for the three to remain in custody.

A lawyer representing the company's director has said his client did not authorize the deactivation of the system and knew nothing about it.

The five-year-old Israeli survivor, Eitan, has started to breath on his own again at a Turin hospital after being extubated.

His lost his parents, his younger brother and his great grandparents in the disaster and is set to go into the care of an aunt.

The funeral of Eitan's parents and his brother is taking place on Thursday in Israel, the family's country of origin.

The funeral of two other victims is being held in Varese on Thursday.

Transport and Infrastructure Minister Enrico Giovannini described the disaster as a "great wound for our country" as he reported to parliament on it on Thursday.

The incident has gained extensive coverage in the international media. (ANSA).




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Nearly nine in 10 people in England aged 60 and over are now fully vaccinated against Covid-19, figures suggest.

An estimated 87.0% of people in this age group had received both doses of a vaccine by May 23.

(PA Graphics)

Some 48.5% of people aged 55 to 59 are also estimated to have had both doses, along with 41.2% of those aged 50 to 54.

People aged 60 and over were in the top seven groups on the priority list for vaccines, with initial doses offered to over-80s from early December and over-70s from mid-January.

The figures for vaccinations were published by NHS England, and have been combined with population estimates from the Office for National Statistics.

In Bolton, where the Indian variant of coronavirus has pushed Covid-19 case rates to the highest anywhere in the UK, 87.6% of people aged 60 and over are fully vaccinated, up from 82.2% seven days earlier, according to analysis by the PA news agency.

(PA Graphics)

In Blackburn with Darwen, which has the second highest rate in the UK and where the Indian variant is also driving a spike in cases, 84.1% of those aged 60 and over have received both doses, up from 79.2%.

In Bedford, which has the third highest rate, the proportion of people 60 and over fully vaccinated has risen week-on-week from 80.4% to 86.5%.

The highest estimated proportion of people aged 60 and over to be fully vaccinated is in Mid Suffolk (95.9%), followed by Stratford-on-Avon (95.6%) and Telford & Wrekin (95.3%).

The lowest proportion is in the City of London (59.0%) followed by the London boroughs of Westminster (59.1%) and Tower Hamlets (61.2%).

Among younger age groups, 27.7% of people aged 45 to 49 are now estimated to have received both doses of vaccine, along with 24.3% of people aged 40 to 44.

Some 13.9% of people aged 16 to 39 are also likely to have had both doses.
(Reuters) - Airbnb Inc said on Thursday it would extend a ban on parties in homes listed on its platform through at least the end of summer in an effort to halt the spread of coronavirus infections.

This comes as increasing vaccination rates and easing travel restrictions in parts of the world are expected to boost travel demand in the summer months.

In August of last year, the short-term home rental company placed a global ban on parties at its properties, which it said proved to be popular with its host community.

"We will not tolerate behavior that disrupts neighborhoods or violates the trust of our Host community," said Airbnb in a statement.

San Francisco-based Airbnb said the event-friendly search filter will remain inaccessible during this period and it expects to provide an update on the policy at the end of summer.

Also, guests without a history of positive reviews on Airbnb cannot book one night reservations for an entire home in the United States during July 4th weekend. (https://bit.ly/3bZNgW5)

(Reporting by Shreyasee Raj in Bengaluru; Editing by Bernard Orr)
By APD writer Shristi Kafle

China, on Wednesday, announced a grant of 1 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines for Nepal, raising a beacon of hope among the Nepali public who are facing a tough battle againt COVID-19 pandemic.

Chinese ambassador to Nepal Hou Yanqi shared such announcement in her twitter account, following which 'Thank You China' started trending in social media sphere.

President Xi Jinping has announced to provide a grant of 1 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine to his Nepali counterpart, Bidya Devi Bhandari through a phone conversation, Yanqi announced.

Nepali President Bhandari and her Chinese counterpart had held a phone conversation earlier today.

"President Bidya Devi Bhandari and President Xi Jinping of PRC discussed bilateral relations & COVID-19 related cooperation over a telephone conversation today. President Bhandari thanked President Xi for the additional grant of one million COVID-19 vaccine to Nepal," Ministry of Foreign Affairs had informed.

Following the announcement, Nepali leaders, intellectuals and general public from different spheres of life took to the social media accounts like Facebook and Twitter in thanking China, Chinese President and the people of China for helping Nepal in the time of crisis.

"Thank you. A friend in need is a friend indeed," Rastriya Prajatantra Party Chairman and former Deputy Prime Minister Kamal Thapa stated in Twitter.

A renowned banker, CEO of Nabil Bank, Anil Shah remarked, "Deepest gratitude from the people of Nepal to the people and government of China for this most needed assistance of providing 1 million vaccinations. Thank you for always being true friend and neighbor of Nepal."

A clinical professor Ishan Adhikari mentioned in Twitter that there is no second alternative to Vaccines, adding that "Lives at stake- No time to waste! Vaccine Equity is Basic Humanity! Thank you China for VACCINES!"

The social media platforms were overwhelmed with the messages like Thank you China, Thank you Chinese President, China to the Rescue, Long live China-Nepal relationship, among others for the kind gesture from the neighboring nation in the toughest time.

The latest announcement comes at a time when Nepal has been waiting to receive one million doses of vaccines from Serum Institute of India, for which it had already paid in February. The procurement process has been stalled due to the alleged involvement of middle-men and their share demands.

Bikash Sangruala, a journalist, mentioned, "We need a lot more vaccines for inoculation. Please prioritize Nepal in commercial export of vaccines."

The gesture from the northern neighbor has raised hope among the public, who are desperately waiting for inoculation to fight against the COVID-19 virus. Only certain percent of population have received both the doses of vaccines so far.

Earlier, the Chinese government had provided 800,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine in a grant assistant to Nepal.

Over 6,500 Nepalis have already lost their lives in the battle against the virus.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)
The number of COVID-19 infections in Kenya has neared the 170,000 mark as the country braces for a possible eruption of a fourth wave.

According to the country's Ministry of Health, the number of confirmed cases rose to 169,356 after 431 new infections were reported on Wednesday.

Health minister Mutahi Kagwe earlier urged relevant authorities to step up preparations ahead of an expected spike of the Indian coronavirus variant already detected in the country.

"We are asking county governments to prepare themselves particularly with the supply of oxygen and piping the hospital wards and being prepared with a supply of oxygen beyond what we currently have. I am asking all county governments to increase capacity beyond what we currently have," Kagwe said .

"The Indian variant is a lot more dangerous than the South African variant or the British variant which we have been dealing with," the minister cautioned.

The ministry of health also announced ten new virus-related deaths, bringing the total number of fatalities to 3,097.

In efforts to contain the pandemic, the Kenyan government has imposed various measures including a nationwide nighttime curfew, a ban on large public gatherings and a mandatory wearing of face masks.

A national vaccination exercise is also currently underway. By Wednesday, some 960,379 jabs had been administered, with persons aged 58 years and above accounting for the larger share.

(CGTN)
With the world facing acute shortage in Covid-19 vaccines, WHOs nod for global use of Chinas Sinopharm vaccine provides a huge relief.

IN recent weeks, there has been an incessant flow of exciting news on Chinese vaccines that carries wide-ranging implications for China as well as vaccine-deprived developing countries.

On May 7, the World Health Organisation announced its approval for emergency use a Covid-19 vaccine from Chinas government-owned drugmaker Sinopharm, greenlighting it to be rolled out globally.

The Sinopharm vaccine, with scientific name BBIBP-CorV, is the first developed by a non-Western country to gain WHO listing.

Prior to this, WHO had given emergency use approvals to Covid-19 vaccines developed by Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson and Moderna.

A WHO backing means that the vaccine is recognised as safe and effective. It also means the vaccine can be included in Covax, a WHO global programme to distribute vaccines mainly to the poor countries.

WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus pointed out the significance of this listing to the world at a press briefing on May 7.

This expands the list of Covid-19 vaccines that Covax can buy, and gives countries confidence to expedite their own regulatory approval, and to import and administer a vaccine,  he said.

According to Xinhua, the Sinopharm vaccine is expected to accelerate vaccine rollout in many low and middle-income countries through purchase and delivery by the WHO-led Covax initiative.

On May 10, Beijing repeated its policy to continue to promote the fair access of Covid-19 vaccines in developing countries.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying told a press briefing Beijing will honour its pledge to provide 10 million vaccine doses to Covax for developing nations.

For Beijing, the WHO approval is a strong credit given to its emerging biotechnology sector. The listing is a confidence booster and major milestone achieved by Chinas local pharmaceutical industry, which the government is promoting as a growth sector.

The listing marks an important achievement in the epidemic prevention and control for China,  hails Chinas official news agency Xinhua, which also notes that China was the first country to have put the Covid-19 pandemic under control and has developed one of the earliest vaccines in the world.

The WHO recognition will also bolster Chinas push to inoculate the developing nations that are facing supply shortage, in its oft-repeated objective to use its vaccine to do global public good.

For the Chinese vaccine recipient countries, doubt cast on the efficacy of Chinese vaccines donated or sold to them has dissipated instantly. Over 200 million doses of Sinopharm vaccine have been supplied in China and abroad.

The vaccine, developed by Beijing Biological Products Institute, a unit of Sinopharm subsidiary China National Biotec Group (CNBG), is said to have an efficacy of 79% for all age groups.

After the WHOs approval, our vaccines will be able to contribute more to the global fight against the pandemic, as the vaccines enter the global procurement and supply system,  Yang Xiaoming, chairman of Sinopharm CNBG, told Chinas state TV channel CGTN.

As of this month, Sinopharm has produced over 400 million doses of Covid-19 vaccines.

Sinopharms chairman Liu Jingzhen, at a recent forum, announced that the company would raise its annual production capacity to five billion doses, from the previous plan of three billion, due to the sudden surge in overseas interest in the vaccine.

As of this month, more than 100 countries and international organisations have expressed interest in the Sinopharm Covid-19 vaccine, he added.

Sinopharm plans to build new and expand vaccine-producing plants, and enter into vaccine-making ventures overseas, according to the company chairman.

As Chinese companies are known for their production speed and reliability in delivery, the developing world  now facing supply crunch  can rely on China to save lives and economy.

The current situation is: while the poor nations cannot afford to buy vaccines, most developing countries outside the US, UK and EU are still waiting for delivery of Western vaccines they have ordered.

As of early May, more than 1.1 billion Covid-19 vaccine doses had been administered globally but over 80% of these shots were given to residents in developed or high-income countries. Only 0.3% of the doses are available in low-income countries, according to the WHO.

Against this backdrop, Sinopharm vaccine that does not require ultra low temperature for storage will be a good candidate to fill the gap.

Its easy storage requirements make it highly suitable for low-resource settings,  a WHO statement said.

No safety concerns have been identified from pre-clinical or reproductive toxicity studies, while most reactions were injection pain, headache and fatigue.

In fact, long before WHOs decision, Sinopharm vaccine was already given recognition by countries that have run clinical trials on its efficacy, safety and reliability.

The UAE placed its bet on Sinopharm as early as September 2020 when it used the vaccine on its frontline workers, after it launched the phase III clinical trial of the vaccine in July 2020.

The confidence in Sinopharm was enhanced when the countrys leaders and rulers took the vaccine. As a result, the UAE could gradually open up its economy before most other countries in the region.

In April, the UAE went further to announce it would start manufacturing the Sinopharm vaccine for its use and sale to neighbouring countries.

In Europe, Serbia and Hungary were the two earliest countries to inoculate their population with Sinopharm shots.

Other countries that had completed Phase III trials of Sinopharm vaccines are Argentina, Bahrain, Egypt, Morocco, Pakistan and Peru.

But the developing world will benefit even more if the WHO approves the emergency use of another Chinese vaccine named CoronaVac, manufactured by privately-owned Sinovac Biotech.

The WHO has said it could reach a decision soon as its technical experts are reviewing it.

A WHO expert panel reportedly said they had a high level of confidence in CoronaVacs efficacy but there wasnt enough information to assess the potential for side effects for old people and those with medical conditions.

Despite this, Sinovac has already supplied over 300 million vaccine doses at home and abroad  mainly to Latin America, Asia and Africa.

The recent good news for Sinovac is that both Indonesia and Chile have found CoronaVac to be more protective than expected.

Indonesia, one of the earliest to use CoronaVac in its mass vaccination campaign, revealed this month that a study of some 128,000 Jakarta health workers found CoronaVac to be far more protective than clinical trials had indicated.

Doubt had been cast on Sinovacs vaccine when clinical trials in Brazil and Turkey saw its efficacy rates ranging from 50% to 91%.

But the Indonesian finding was uplifting. Among others, the finding saw the vaccine protected 98% of the health workers from death, and 96% from being hospitalised.

CoronaVac is used mainly in Asia-Pacific, Latin America and Central and Eastern Europe. Apart from Indonesia, other Asean countries that are using the vaccine are Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines.

Like Indonesia, Chile has selected CoronaVac to bring down rates of death and hospitalisation.

While cases in Chile have spiked recently, its real-world data shows CoronaVac prevented 80% of deaths in those vaccinated.

Another recent significant development for Sinovac is that its vaccine is being reviewed by the EU.

On May 4, the EUs drug regulator European Medicines Agency (EMA) announced that its human medicines committee (CHMP) has started a rolling review of the Covid-19 vaccine developed by Sinovac Life Sciences.

The CHMPs decision to start the rolling review is based on preliminary results from laboratory studies (non-clinical data) and clinical studies. These studies suggest that the vaccine triggers the production of antibodies that target the virus that causes Covid-19, and may help protect against the disease,  said EMA on its website.

If Sinovac is adopted by the EMA, it will mean greenlight is given for its use by 27 EU member nations led by Germany and France.

As a result of Sinopharms WHO listing and the deluge of positive news surrounding CoronaVac, it is no surprise that interest in Sinovac is catching up.

According to media reports, Egyptian Health Minister Hala Zayed announced on May 9 that Egypt would start producing Chinas Sinovac Covid-19 vaccine in June.

The minister told a press conference that two million doses would be produced in June locally.

We will receive the first shipment of the raw materials needed to manufacture the vaccine on May 18,  Zayed said, adding 40 million doses would be planned in the first year.

If CoronaVac is given WHO listing, the vaccine  like Sinopharms doses  may make a big impact in resource-scarce developing world as it is affordable and can be stored near room temperature. It does not need to be stored at ultra low temperatures like Pfizer.

Sinovac Biotech said in March that annual production capacity of the firms two-dose vaccine CoronaVac could hit two billion doses by June. But strong global demand may drive its output to be raised.

The latest developments indicate that China may be able to produce five billion doses or more of vaccines this year for its domestic use and 40% of world consumption.

If both Sinopharm and Sinovac, as well as other vaccine producers in China, were to ramp up their production, the hope of saving more lives can be in sight.

Hence cooperation with China is important for countries in need of vaccines, given that Covid-19 mutants are rampaging, rich countries are hoarding vaccines and India  previously aimed to be a major vaccine maker  has stopped exports to address its coronavirus crisis.

Although Western vaccines have eased situations in the US, UK and some EU nations, new Covid cases and death toll globally have continued to rise. Many countries are facing a new wave of Covid-19 crisis.

While anti-China quarters may repeat warning of Beijings vaccine diplomacy and its geopolitical influence, wise national leaders should rank peoples lives and their economies as top priority.

(THE STAR)
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MILTON, Ga.  Milton residents have a farmers market to call their own again. The Milton Farmers Market debuts June 2 at Broadwell Pavilion and will run each Wednesday from 3 to 6 p.m. through Nov. 3.

The markets will feature seasonal vegetables, prepared foods, meats, eggs, sauces and some non-food items for sale from local and regional vendors.

The farmers market isnt the citys first venture into the popular event, but it expects this iteration will be more successful. Courtney Spriggs, Miltons community outreach manager, said Miltons past events had competition for vendors and attendees from neighboring markets, including the prolific Alpharetta Farmers Market, which takes place each Saturday from April to November.

But with the rising popularity of these events, it is now more commonplace for them to occur on weekdays, Spriggs said, and the market will be able to attract more vendors, and hopefully, more attendees.

To make it happen, the city has partnered with one of its residents, Judy Hall.

Hall has spearheaded efforts to coordinate the events, bring vendors on board and help with setup and cleanup. In exchange, the city is helping to promote the events and offering the use of Broadwell Pavilion at no charge. Revenues from the Farmers Market will go back into the program.

Were so excited to parent with a Milton resident who has the resources and skills to devote to [the Farmers Market], Spriggs said. This was a gift from Judy to take this on.

Hall said she was inspired to coordinate the events because she is a farmers market fan and thought Milton was a perfect location to play host to another.

It has been so fun working with Courtney and the vendors, Hall said. We are ready to get it going.

The partnership is also beneficial, Spriggs said, because funding for the citys events has been hampered by the sharp decline in hotel/motel tax revenues amid the pandemic.

The events will be held at Broadwell Pavilion rain or shine, with Hall saying there is plenty of shade. She said attendees should follow signs for parking, which will be near the pavilion with some overflow spots being worked out, including some at Crabapple Baptist.
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The Centre said that India was the second country after the United States to cross 20 crore cumulative Covid-19 vaccination coverage

New Delhi: Delhi, the nations capital, on Wednesday recorded a positivity rate lower than two per cent as fresh Covid-19 cases dipped to 1,491. This is the first time in nine weeks that the cases were so low as fatalities due to Covid-related complications remain high, at 130 on a single day. Wednesdays fatality figures are, however, the lowest since April 15.

Another megacity, Mumbai, the nations financial capital, also saw a significant drop in its daily count -- with 1,362 new positive cases and 34 deaths, as 1,021 were discharged from medical supervision in 24 hours.

Across India, the daily cases showed a rise in the last 24 hours after a brief dip on Tuesday. In the last 24 hours, about 2.09 lakh fresh cases were detected while the deaths crossed 4,000. Union health ministry officials said Covid-19 cases are on a declining trajectory for the last 10 days and the countrys active caseload had come down to 24.95 lakhs -- a fall of 91,191 in active cases in the last 24 hours, with nearly three lakh recoveries. Indias recovery rate is now 89.66 per cent, while the weekly positivity rate is 11.45 per cent. Officials said the daily positivity rate was 9.42 per cent and was less than 10 per cent for two consecutive days.

Several cities have started easing restrictions. In Punjabs Ludhiana, shops can now remain open till 3 pm and home delivery by restaurants is allowed till 9 pm, while night curfew timings have been changed in 36 Gujarat cities from 9 pm to 6 am instead of 8 pm to 6 am.

However, the bigger challenge for the government is to tackle the rising cases of black fungus. The Centres records show 11,717 patients under treatment for black fungus, or mucomycosis. The highest number of such patients are in Gujarat (2,859), Maharashtra (2,770), Madhya Pradesh (752) and Telangana (744). In Delhi, though the Centres list shows 119 patients are under treatment for black fungus, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal said the number was actually 620. He said that a shortage of medicines was hampering its treatment.

Delhi is getting about 400 vials of Amphotericin B needed to treat the fungal infection from the Central quota while 4,000 vials are required daily, said Mr Kejriwal. However, chemicals and fertilisers minister D.V. Sadananda Gowda said 23,680 vials of Amphotericin B were supplied across the country on May 21, and an additional 19,420 vials were allocated on May 24. On Wednesday, 29,250 more Amphotericin B vials were allocated to all states and Union territories.

The Centre has, meanwhile, said that India was the second country after the United States to cross 20 crore cumulative Covid-19 vaccination coverage, adding that 42 per cent of the population above 60 had got the first dose of the vaccine. However, a bizarre incident was reported from Siddhartha Nagar on the Uttar Pradesh-Nepal border, where about 20 villagers were given a cocktail of vaccines -- Covaxin after Covishield. The villagers were injected with Covishield in the first week of April and then given Covaxin as their second dose on May 14.

NDTV reported that health department officials said there was no order from any authority to mix vaccines and an inquiry has been ordered into the incident. Officials claimed no one has reported adverse health effects from this mixup of vaccines so far.

This is definitely an oversight. There are no instructions from the government to administer a cocktail of vaccines. So, it is an oversight. We have ordered an inquiry and have got the report. I have asked for an explanation from those who are guilty. We will take whatever action is possible, Siddhartha Nagars chief medical officer Sandeep Chaudhary had told NDTV.
Seattle-based Amazon.com Inc. announced that Bezos was stepping down as CEO in February

Bezos will become executive chair at Amazon and focus on new products and initiatives. (Photo: AP)

New York: Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has picked a date to step down as CEO.

Bezos, who grew Amazon from an internet bookstore to an online shopping behemoth, said Wednesday that Amazon executive Andy Jassy will take over the CEO role on July 5.

"We chose that date because it's sentimental for me," Bezos said during an Amazon shareholder meeting Wednesday. He explained that it was exactly 27 years ago on that date in 1994 that Amazon was incorporated.

Seattle-based Amazon.com Inc. announced that Bezos was stepping down as CEO in February, but didn't provide a specific date. Jassy, his replacement, currently runs the company's cloud-computing business.

Bezos, 57 and with a personal fortune of USD 167 billion, won't be going far.

He will become executive chair at Amazon and focus on new products and initiatives. He also plans to focus on his other ventures, such as his rocket ship company, Blue Origin, and his newspaper, The Washington Post.

On Wednesday, Amazon also announced it would buy storied Hollywood studio MGM for USD 8.45 billion with the hopes of filling its video streaming service with more shows and movies to watch.
Twitter said it was committed to India as a vital market, but criticised the new IT rules and regulations

Twitter express concern over the safety of its employees in India and said it will continue to be strictly guided by principles of transparency and protecting freedom of expression. (Photo:AP)

New Delhi: The row over Twitter's handling of certain messages escalated into an all-out war of words on Thursday, with the government saying the messaging platform was levelling baseless and false allegations to defame India and dictating terms to the world's largest democracy.

It started with Twitter calling the visit by Delhi Police to its offices a form of "intimidation" -- a statement which met with vociferous protests from both the government and the Delhi Police.

While the government called it "totally baseless, false and an attempt to defame India", Delhi Police said the statement was "mendacious" and designed to impede a lawful inquiry.

Twitter had marked several tweets by ruling BJP leaders on an alleged strategy document of Opposition to target the government over COVID as containing 'manipulated media', which prompted the police to visit its offices late on Monday.

Twitter said it was committed to India as a vital market, but criticised the new IT rules and regulations that it said "inhibit free, open public conversation."

It went on to express concern over the safety of its employees in India and said it will continue to be strictly guided by principles of transparency and protecting freedom of expression.

Within hours, the Delhi Police issued a strongly-worded statement saying Twitter was purporting to be both investigating and adjudicating authority and had "taken upon itself, in the garb of terms of service, to adjudicate the truth or otherwise of documents in public space".

The reference being of the alleged 'toolkit' -- the one that Twitter, which uses fact-checking websites, tagged as 'manipulated media'. The Delhi Police is investigating it on a complaint by Congress of the 'toolkit' being fake.

Delhi Police said it had gone to the Twitter office to ask its India head to join the investigation as the messaging platform seemed to have information based on which it declared the 'toolkit' manipulated media.

Shortly thereafter, the Ministry of Electronics and IT issued a statement saying India has a glorious tradition of free speech and democratic practices dating back centuries.

"Twitter's statement is an attempt to dictate its terms to the world's largest democracy. Through its actions and deliberate defiance, Twitter seeks to undermine India's legal system," it asserted.

Stating that Twitter has refused to comply with new digital rules requiring identification of the originator of a flagged message and appointing grievance redressal officers, the ministry said the purported commitment of the US-based firm to India not only sounds hallow but completely self-serving.

"Twitter needs to stop beating around the bush and comply with the laws of the land," the ministry said without saying what action it could take in case non-compliance continued.

It went on to highlight previously raised concerns around certain locations in Ladakh being shown as part of China, alleged reluctance to block content around a "genocide plan" during farmers' protest, rampant proliferation of fake and harmful content against India, and no action being taken on a type of coronavirus being called the Indian variant.

The government, the statement said, "condemns the unfortunate statement issued by Twitter as totally baseless, false and attempt to defame India to hide their own follies."

"Twitter has a large user base in India, it earns significant revenue from its Indian operations but is also the most reluctant to appoint an India-based grievance redressal officer and mechanism, chief compliance officer and nodal officer to whom its own users can complain when they are subjected to offensive tweets," it said.

It went on to say that Twitter employees are safe in India and there is no threat to their personal safety and security.

In its first official statement after the Delhi Police visited the company's offices in Delhi and Gurugram to serve notice to its country managing director about the investigation into the 'manipulated media' tag, Twitter said it will continue to be strictly guided by principles of transparency and protecting freedom of expression.

The company said it will "strive" to comply with applicable law in India to keep its service available in the country but will "advocate for changes to elements of these regulations that inhibit free, open public conversation."

"Right now, we are concerned by recent events regarding our employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people we serve," Twitter said in a statement.

"We, alongside many in civil society in India and around the world, have concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police in response to enforcement of our global Terms of Service, as well as with core elements of the new IT rules."

In the new digital rules, social media companies like Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter have been asked to identify within 36 hours the originator of a flagged message as well as conduct additional due diligence, including the appointment of a chief compliance officer, nodal contact person and resident grievance officer.

"We will continue our constructive dialogue with the Indian government and believe it is critical to adopt a collaborative approach. It is the collective responsibility of elected officials, industry and civil society to safeguard the interests of the public," Twitter said.

According to Twitter, the company is particularly concerned about the requirement to make an individual (the compliance officer) criminally liable for content on the platform, the requirements for proactive monitoring, and the blanket authority to seek information about its users.

This, it said, represents dangerous overreach that is inconsistent with open, democratic principles.

Twitter further said it continues to accept grievances from users and law enforcement via its existing grievance redressal channel.

Meanwhile, homegrown microblogging platform Koo on Thursday said it has provided "necessary details" on compliance as sought by the IT Ministry, after the new social media rules came into effect.

The ministry had on Wednesday asked all large social media companies to immediately report on status of compliance with the new digital rules, and offer details of grievance redressal officer, chief compliance officer and nodal officer to whom users can submit complaints.

"We have a robust community guidelines framework which has been existent for a while now," Aprameya Radhakrishna, co-founder of Koo, told PTI.
If you are old enough to remember the hit comedy movie of 1980, Caddy Shack, then you will recall that a gopher infestation was threatening a golf course in Nebraska. The somewhat deranged groundskeeper was tasked with getting rid of the pest. His efforts at eradication include shooting, f
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You would be excused if you assumed humanity is finally heading into that highly technologized future its been dreaming about for decades. Youd also be excused if you thought people paid a lot of (digital) money for stuff that didnt exist in reality But heres a piece of art that kicks NFT butt, big time. Its a sculpture called I Am and it both proves you dont need technology to make art and that you reallypay a small fortune on nothingness. We're talking about a void, as the Italian media describes, a completely white space filled with energy, an invisible, immaterial sculpture.Created by Sardinia-born artist Salvatore Garau, I Am was sold at an Art-Rite auction for 15,000 (approximately $18,300 at the current exchange rates). There is no physical representation of the sculpture, neither in print or digital format, because it is invisible. The only physical way to confirm it exists is the new owners certificate of authenticity, which is where parallels with NFT art can be drawn.According to Il Giorno , the piece should be displayed in a special room, in a space free from obstruction, of about 150x150 cm (4.92x4.92 feet). Presumably, special lighting and climate control in that space are optional, since you cant see the piece either way.To those assuming Garau might have pulled the smartest art prank since the banana taped to the wall piece (which sold for $120,000), a word from Garau: he didnt sell nothing; he created a void. That space is not empty but occupied by the energy of the sculpture he removed from it.The successful outcome of the auction testifies to an irrefutable fact: the void is nothing but a space full of energy, and even if we empty it and nothing remains, according to Heisenbergs uncertainty principle that nothingness has a weight, he says. It therefore has energy that condenses and transforms itself into particles, in short, in us! When I decide to exhibit an immaterial sculpture in a given space, that space will concentrate a certain quantity and density of thoughts in a precise point, creating a sculpture that from my title alone will take the most varied forms. After all, dont we give shape to a God we have never seen?Or, if youre feeling more generous, you can always say Garau sold an idea of a work of art. Still, it beats NFT artwork , if only on the consideration that I Am has a non-existent footprint. Fancysustainable!
SUV

AWD

Unveiled in November 2018 as the South Korean manufacturers new flagshipoffering, the Palisade is a huge improvement over the long-wheelbase Santa Fe it replaced.The exterior is far more polished, hinting at a premium vehicle from every angle. If you cover up the Hyundai logos, youll be forgiven for confusing it with a Lincoln or a Cadillac, and that speaks volumes about Hyundais commitment to designing beautiful vehicles. But apart from the eye-catching design that can easily rival the aforementioned carmakers, the price makes it even more attractive.Although no dramatic changes were made since the models introduction, this years version comes with a completely new range-topping trim called Calligraphy. It replaces the Limited atop of the model list, but since the latter is still available, many have wondered what exactly differentiates them and if its worth paying $975 more for the new addition.Compared to the inferior SE and SEL trims, the Limited brings many upgrades to the list of standard features like LED taillights, 20-inch wheels, dual-panel sunroof, or rain-sensing wipers.The Calligraphy takes it up a notch by adding a set of exclusive 20-inch alloys that are undoubtedly nicer. The other noticeable differences include the redesigned front grille and bumpers, which are exclusive to this model and bolster its overall design. The trim also comes with puddle lights, rear accent lighting, premium front and rear skid plates , as well as a different cargo sill plate.As soon as you step into the cabin of either model, any preconceptions that you had about the Palisade, or Hyundai as a whole, will be shattered. The minimalist yet stylish design, along with the abundance of high-quality materials used, will make you wonder if you climbed into the right SUV.The steering wheel is the feature that will bring you back to reality since its design doesnt quite live up to the rest of the cockpit. Here, the Calligraphy offers a somewhat improved version that comes wrapped in perforated leather. Behind it, theres a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that comes standard on both trims, as does the central 10.3-inch infotainment screen.Available in black or beige Nappa leather, the quilted and perforated seats are the highlight of the interior . They look extremely well-crafted and comfortable, are 8-way power-adjustable, and feature heat and ventilation for the front and the second-row captain chairs.The new top-level trim adds quilted leather door panels to both interior color options and a faux-suede headliner, making the cabin look more upscale.Youll find many reviews out there stating that the new trim offersas a standard feature, which is what Hyundai initially announced but in reality, its only available for an extra $1,700. That means that the differences between the Limited and the Calligraphy are purely aesthetic.In conclusion, if you like the Palisade and you want one that looks noticeably different both inside and out, then paying $925 more for the new trim is well worth it, in my opinion.
The quick rendering sees the Charger Hellcat gaining a new front end, and we need to consider both sides of the love-hate equation. For one, the age of the muscle sedan means a fresh fascia would be welcome. The styling seen here accentuates the mean look of the current car, even adding some dynamic styling cues such as the hexagon-build daytime running lights sitting in the larger side intakes.Then again, the styling change, which comes from digital label tuningcar_ps, seems to bring a bit of a European flavor to the Charger. Looking past the bumper's central air intake partially resembling the one on the BMW M5, such a move reminds us of the treatment the Ford Mustang received for its most recent exterior revamp ( 2018MY ).However, while the current S550 Mustang generation, which is also due for replacement, is a global car, there's no need to bring Euro flavor to the present Charger and risk diluting its visual identity as this is not offered on the Old Continent.The original muscle cars had to change when the oil crisis and skyrocketing insurance prices no longer favored their powerful but inefficient motors. And it was for the worse, with the Malaise era that spanned from 1973 to 1983 seeing vehicles across the U.S. industry suffering from poor performance to increase fuel efficiency that was held back by outdated legislation preventing many innovations.Dodge itself has admitted that the current form of our beloved muscle cars will soon have to change, calling the present times a golden era of modern muscle. Still, the company has assured us there's a promising future for the genre, albeit without delivering any specific details on the matter.Electrification is a given, with the rumor mill talking about the Mopar people keeping the current Challenger and Charger alive via hybridization while introducing all-electric muscle cars later in the decade.Meanwhile, documents released late last year by Unifor, the Canadian trade union, show that the Challenger's production will at least continue through 2023. The Brampton Assembly site outside Toronto, which brings the Challenger and Charger to the world, will receive new technology courtesy of an investment of around $1.3 billion, with a part of this set to help build new versions of the duo.The fact that Dodge's new parent company Stellantis, which resulted from the merger of Fiat Chrysler and Groupe PSA, has disbanded the SRT performance division earlier this year, means it's natural to be concerned for the future of Mopar muscle cars.However, the sheer fact that Dodge can now access plenty of fresh platforms that can seriously cut emissions by simply lowering the weight, coupled with the cult status of the Charger and Challenger, means the company might find a way to keep the legends alive.
EV

SUV

Under the automakers 2022 roadmap , there are two ways out of this financial slump. For starters, Maserati will electrify every single nameplate in the lineup. We already have the Ghibli and Levante hybrids, but sooner rather than later, full-on EVs will enter the scene with tri-motor powertrains.The only nameplate that wasnt planned to receive full electrification is the Grecale, which used to be called D-UV in the automakers 2022 roadmap. Listed with hybrid/plug-in hybrid compatibility and Level 3 autonomy, the compact crossover wasnt supposed to come as anbecause of its underpinnings. After the merger with Groupe PSA, Stellantis-owned Maserati said that an EV would eventually happen, probably at the end of next year.Based on the Giorgio platform of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio crossover and Giulia sedan, the Porsche Macan competitor is to the Alfa Romeo Stelvio what the Lexus NX is to the Toyota RAV4. The upmarket crossover will take its mojo from turbocharged four- and six-cylinder mills, the range-topping version being the twin-turbocharged V6-engined Trofeo Teased once again with Stellantis chief executive officer Carlos Tavares behind the wheel, the Grecale is uncannily similar to the Stelvio from the side profile. Camouflaged from head to toe in a vinyl wrap that says Grecale one too many times, the prototype that Carlos tested rides on five-spoke wheels shod with Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetrictires. Designed to maximize grip, this compound isnt on par with the Stelvio Quadrifoglio's Pirelli P-Zeros.On that note, the Grecale will debut before years end as a 2022 model. Following an investment of 800 million euros ($975 million), series production will take place at the Cassino plant in Italy, where the Stelvio is made.
BAMS-D is an autonomous high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) drone meant for maritime and littoral intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Powered by a Rolls-Royce turbofan engine, it can cruise at a maximum of 60,000 feet (18,288 meters), spying on people.If it looks familiar, thats because the BAMS-D is the precursor of the MQ-4C Triton , a machine already in early operating capability deployment and one that will eventually become a 68-unit strong fleet, deployed with the U.S. Navy.But back to the original BAMS-D, this drone has been in operation well beyond its initially planned life. This week, Northrop Grumman announced that the drone just passed the 40,000 flight hours milestone while on a mission for the U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) back in April.For now, says the manufacturer, this particular drone will remain in operational service. It will continue to fly high in the sky for long periods, gathering sensible data about Americas enemies.As for the Triton variant, it had its first flight in 2013. The U.S. Navy and the Royal Australian Air Force presently deploy a small number of them to conduct maritime ISR patrol, signals intelligence, search and rescue, and communications relay missions.Just like its predecessor, it can stay in the air for 24 hours at a time, reaching altitudes of more than 10 miles (16 km). The drone can cover distances of up to 9,400 miles (15,100 km) on a single outing.Earlier in May, Northrop Grumman announced it would begin testing a sense and avoid technology for the Triton, hoping to give it the capability of operating alongside other aircraft and from any airfield or airport in the world.
The line already comprises the standard cruiser and the more touring-oriented Classic . They will be joined by a sportier incarnation, R 18 B, and the Transcontinental classic tour-oriented two-wheeler, which according to our sources, will likely be revealed as soon as this June.Like all other bikes in the family, the new ones are said to use of the same 2-cylinder engine that is 1,802 cc in displacement, albeit fitted inside a slightly larger frame required to accommodate the needs of longer cruises. Named by the Germans Big Boxer , the powerplant is rated at 91 hp and 158 Nm (116 lb-ft) of torque in the existing bikes, and that will probably be the case with the new ones as well.The B will come with a large fairing and a short windshield, while the Transcontinental will sport a larger windshield, additional headlights, and a top case at the rear. Both new models will get a larger tank, 10.5-inch TFT screen, and even an area with inductive charging for smartphones.The wheels are likely to remain the same in size, namely 19-inch front and 16-inch rear wheels, only in a new design. Visually, the B will take a darkened approach to things, while the Transcontinental will go for chrome.According to the spies that captured the photos you see in the gallery, the R 18 B should tip the scale at 365 kg (805 pounds), while the Transcontinental is said to come in at over 400 kg (882 pounds).Full details on the new bikes, and uncamouflaged photos, will be thrown into the wild by Motorrad soon.
Fife Young Carers hugely impactful work sees them offer young carers some respite from their caring role, and the opportunity to have fun spending time with people of their own age.



Thank you to Blown Away for hosting todays fun session in St Andrews! pic.twitter.com/pp4eHqafvF  The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (@KensingtonRoyal) May 26, 2021

Hello St Andrews!



Today The Duke and Duchess are opening the day on the West Sands Beach, joining Fife Young Carers for a session of land yachting ? pic.twitter.com/LXTPEQ5GVi  The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (@KensingtonRoyal) May 26, 2021

Officially though, the Royal couple is in Scotland to oversee the work of their patronages, do charity work and raise awareness on various issues. One such issue is that of young carers, so they joined Fife Young Carers at an event hosted by Blown Away, the only commercial land yachting company in the country, at West Sands Beach, in St Andrews.The location is a short drive away from the university where the two met and supposedly fell in love more than a decade ago. Its also the perfect place for a spot of land yachting, which looked like all sorts of fun.Land yachting is also known as sand yachting, land sailing, or dirtboating, and it involves racing in wind-powered karts. Each such kart has a sail and a set of controls, and as the Duchess found out, the challenge is in making sure you sail on land without having the wind topple you over, kart and all.Photos and videos of the event, which saw the two put on helmets and give their best shot at racing, were made public on the couples official Twitter account. They also show, beyond any trace of doubt, that the couple are definitely having a lot of fun on their most recent tour.Last weekend, Prince William visited the Knockhill Circuit near Dunfermline, where he got an extensive tour of the Odyssey 21 , the Extreme E offroader. After the presentation and a brief chat, the Duke received a short training session in the electric offroader, with a professional driver at the wheel, and then got to drive it himself for a few laps. A reminder that Royal life isnt always as boring as it might seem.
Captain America, Easy Rider Captain America, or the Easy Rider chopper, is the worlds most expensive Harley-Davidson chopper and one of the most expensive bikes ever created and sold at auction. Adding to its value is the association with the counter-culture and anti-establishment movement, made possible through its appearance in the 1969 film Easy Rider, with Peter Fonda , Dennis Hopper, and Jack Nicholson.No one knows for a fact what happened with the original Captain America bikes built for the film (either two or four of them), but the most widespread story is that they were stolen at gunpoint right after production was completed. Their build history is equally muddled, with most of the people involved in the process telling different stories at different timesand no longer around to set the record straight.What is known for a fact is that the Captain America used in the crash scene at the end of the film was not taken to the junkyard but handed over to the supposed original builder (and the most unreliable narrator in the entire story), Dan Haggerty. Years later, he would sell two different Captain Americas, both of them claiming to be original. One ended up at auction in 2014 and sold for a reported $1.35 million (before auction fees), even though its authenticity was challenged just days before.The other has just re-emerged. Its the piece Haggerty and collector Gary Graham rebuilt from salvaged parts from the original, laying around in Haggertys garage. Graham funded the venture under the agreement that Haggerty would repay him the loan later on. He never did, so Graham sold the bike off to Gordon Granger, through the Daniel Kruse Classic Car Productions, in 1996, for $63,000. The bike has been in Texas since, and its now offered at auction , with an estimate between $300,000 and $500,000.The bike comes with three letters of authenticity: from Graham, Haggerty, and Kruse. But, as noted above, Haggerty was never a reliable source: in 2008, he said hed sold the original to the Guggenheim Museum. Later, he admitted that Grangers bike had only some parts from the original (a few bits and pieces, a chain or a fender, nothing more), saying hed kept the frame for himself. Shortly after, Haggerty signed a letter that authenticated Grangers bike, only to recant later and call it an honest mistake.Real or not, partly authentic or not at all, Captain America will be crossing the auction block on June 5, 2021, in Texas. It has a Panhead engine (VTwin 74ci with 52 hp), paired to a manual 4-speed transmission, no odometer, and is not operational. More importantly, it has legend status, representing a longing for a simpler life, one of adventure and the open road, as Dan Kruse says.
Six cities touch 80% threshold for herd immunity

(Global Times) 08:47, May 27, 2021

A medical worker administers a dose of the recombinant COVID-19 vaccine (adenovirus type 5 vector) which requires only one shot to a resident at a temporary vaccination site in Haidian District of Beijing, capital of China, May 20, 2021.(Photo: Xinhua)

As China accelerates its vaccination pace, the Global Times found that six cities - Beijing, four cities in South China's Hainan Province, and Dalian in Northeast China's Liaoning Province - have a first-dose coverage rate above 80 percent, touching the threshold for herd immunity. In Southwest China's Yunnan Province, 25 land border ports have also achieved the goal.

Fresh data for Shanghai, and some major cities in South China's Guangdong and Central China's Hubei provinces, show first-dose vaccination rates close to or exceeding 70 percent. They are soon to reach herd immunity when people get their second doses as scheduled, observers said on Wednesday.

China just reached a new daily vaccination record of 19.4 million doses, bringing the total to 546 million as of Wednesday. It took the country just seven days to bring the total from 400 million to 500 million, while going from 100 million to 200 million took 25 days.

The same acceleration was seen in Guangdong, which took 108 days to administer its first 10 million doses, 26 days for the second, 13 days for the third and nine days for the latest 10 million doses.

China accelerates COVID-19 vaccination. Graphic: Xu Zihe/GT

Guangdong's capital city Guangzhou further sped up the pace after a resurgence of infections on Saturday, which was found to be a mutated virus strain that first occurred in India. Long lines and huge crowds appeared outside vaccination sites in Guangzhou, and the latest effort has driven the city's vaccination pace to more than 500,000 a day, in contrast to just 200,000 in mid-May.

Zhuhai, a less populous city that neighbors Macao, reached the 80 percent threshold as early as April 20.

Another fast-moving place was Hainan Province, which saw its four cities achieve the 80 percent goal on April 27.

Yunnan Province, with 4,060 kilometers of boundary line borders with neighboring countries, is always under pressure of imported infections.

Ruili, which administered vaccines to its 300,000 residents in a week in early April after an unexpected round of flare-ups, is one example of how COVID-19 vaccines were used as prevention against future imported infections. The Global Times found 25 border ports in Yunnan had a combined vaccination rate of 97.4 percent as of May 15.

The speed was much faster than the provincial capital Kunming, which had just vaccinated 52.5 percent of its adult population by Tuesday.

The other two cities that have stepped up vaccinations after seeing coronavirus resurgences recently are Dalian in Liaoning and Hefei in East China's Anhui Province.

More than 80 percent of adult Dalian residents, or 5 million, had received their first doses of COVID-19 vaccines by Tuesday, an obvious acceleration compared with the city's original plan of finishing vaccinations on 3 million people by the end of June.

Hefei, capital of Auhui, is vaccinating 200,000 people a day, and calculations based on the rate suggested that about 50 percent of its 9.4 million residents had received the first doses as of Wednesday. Before the discovery of domestic infections on May 13, the daily vaccination was less than 150,000.

Hefei also has an advantage of vaccine supply as the three-dose recombinant protein vaccine produced by local Anhui Zhifei Longcom Biopharmaceutical obtained emergency use approval in April.

China previously set a goal of vaccinating 40 percent of its population by mid-2021, which observers said was pretty challenging but possible. Tao Lina, a Shanghai-based vaccine expert, told the Global Times on Wednesday that still-tight supplies are likely to be used as a priority for people waiting for a second dose.

Recent sporadic outbreaks are a great impetus for people nationwide to rush for doses. A recent World Economic Forum-Ipsos survey on 10,000 unvaccinated adults in 15 countries found that 81 percent of Chinese respondents were willing to get the doses, which was categorized as "very high." The rate was 73 percent in Japan, 71 percent in Germany and 46 percent in the US.

Analysts said that the major restraint for China to further raise the inoculation pace still lies on the supply end.

To address the problem, manufacturers have started to use two-dose filling and packing, which immediately doubles production capacity, Tao said. Some are exploring ways to outsource the filling and packaging process.

As to the year-end target of vaccinating up to 80 percent of the Chinese population, Feng Duojia, president of the China Vaccine Industry Association, told the Global Times on Wednesday that China's strong organizational capacity, the public's rising willingness to receive the vaccines, as well as the steady expansion of manufacturing, can guarantee the target will be met.

US data showed it had vaccinated half of its adults, or 129 million, by Tuesday with the states of Maine, Connecticut and Vermont taking the lead and states including Georgia falling behind at the one-third level of adults, NBC reported on Tuesday.

China is falling behind in terms of coverage, given that the country's population is 4.4 times that of the US, but China is topping the world in total vaccinations and average daily vaccinations in a week, while the numbers in the US are 288 million and 1.75 million, respectively, according to the New York Times' data tracking.

Feng noted that attention should be paid not only to quantity but also to quality in terms of follow-up doses, the actual rate necessary for herd immunity, and in what cases should a booster dose be administered.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
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We mentioned this country specifically because its Air Force is about to get a bit more potent, thanks to the efforts of Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Navy. Well, maybe not necessarily more potent, but definitely more accurate.The two American organizations announced this week they wrapped up the first flight tests of the Kuwaiti F-18 Super Hornet equipped with something called Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod (ATP). As its name says, that would be a pod attached under the plane to help it with electro-optical precision targeting and increased surveillance capabilities.The Sniper, made by Lockheed Martin , is a very versatile piece of equipment, being compatible with a great deal of F-type aircraft, as well as Harriers and Typhoons. It comprises high-definition sensors, a laser spot tracker, a laser emitter to help laser-guided weapons home in on moving targets, and a digital data recorder, among others.Like most other pieces of tech deployed by the military, the Sniper is also suitable for upgrades thanks to an open architecture design. The most recent new features added to the hardware are two-color laser spot tracking and new software.The Sniper is deployed in 15 aircraft platforms by 27 nations, with some 1,500 of them presently in service. The Sniper is used for passive detection, tracking, and ranging for air-to-air and air-to-surface targets. There is no data on how many times the system was used in combat.For the Kuwait Air Force, the integration of the Sniper on the Super Hornet is on track, after two tests were completed in the past few months at locations in the United States, with both non-operational and operational pods. Lockheed Martin expects it to be ready for integration in late 2023.
Theres a lot of fuss around the subject of vertical take-off and landing vehicles ( VTOLs ) with more and more aircraft manufacturers competing to come up with the most efficient solutions for urban air mobility. And while were still straining our necks looking up for flying taxis, NASA is assiduously working to develop a safe air traffic control system for advanced air mobility.What will the future look like, you ask? Well, if they figure it all out, short-haul flights with just a few passengers could be a feasible plan in a couple of years.OBriens research into electric aircraft led him to NASAs Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley where he had the opportunity to test the legendary Vertical Motion Simulator (VMS). The simulator has the largest motion range in the world, being capable of traveling up to 60 feet vertically and 40 feet laterally, according to NASA.But engineers have to consider the logistics of it all before letting the new air traffic control scheme take off. There are security and safety concerns to address, such as monitoring the flights and dealing with the poor, unreliable GPS and cellular signals at low altitudes in cities.Then theres also the question of securely transmitting flight-related info across shared cloud networks.Last but not least, air taxis have to be able to operate safely alongside conventional aircraft.The ultimate goal is for air taxis to become autonomous, in other words, to be able to safely fly without the need of a pilot. They have to take off, navigate, land, and deal with emergencies on their own while being digitally controlled from the ground.OBriens trip to the Ames Research Center was broadcasted on Novas TV special The Great Electric Airplane Race, airing Wednesday night on PBS.
You could argue Bentley might have a word about that as well, but we feel as though electric power offers the epitome in terms of refinement and serenity inside the cabin, which are two qualities Bentley owners might appreciate. Do you think a V12 runs smoothly? Wait until you experience a brushless permanent magnet synchronous motor.Well, regardless of what we thought, Porsche went out and did it, and did it quite well. The Taycan has been a great success despite the fact it costs way more than a Tesla Model S not to mention its size makes it a more suitable competitor for the Model 3, which costs three times as much (top trims compared).What you get with a Porsche, though, is a promise. You also get one with a Tesla , but unlike those, the ones from the German brand are based on what this company has done up to this point, not the words of its CEO. You're promised a car with consistent performance, top build quality, and exquisite handling characteristics.Some people may have thought the Taycan would be nothing more than a compliance vehicle, a model put out by Porsche to say, "look, we can do electric, we care about the environment, now leave us alone with our flat sixes and fours," but the fact its range continues to expand suggests the company truly believes in what it has created.Apart from the sleek-looking sedan, we now have the Cross Turismo wagon as well, offering some added practicality to what was already a pretty versatile car. But the one electric model everyone expects from Porschesome with their breath heldis a sporty coupe that may or may not receive the 911 name.If you ask us, it would make perfect sense for Porsche to wait a little more before electrifying its iconic model completely. With that in mind, it could opt to look back and revive an old nameplate, such as the 928. Being an oddball in Porsche's history, the V8-powered front-engine grand tourer doesn't have nearly as much of iconic status as the 911 , so the risk of upsetting the fanbase would be significantly lower.On the other hand, once the all-electric 928developed on the same PPE architecture as the Taycan , which would fit the bill since the 928 was meant to be larger than a 911 anywaywould be out and everyone saw how good it was, adapting the technology for an e-911 would cause much less uproar. In theory, at least.We're not entirely sure if that was the thought process behind Youngjai JUN's project as well, but what we do know is that he created a very futuristic-looking interpretation of what an electric 928 revival might look like. The car appears to follow some of the original's design cues. Those include the headlights that, thanks to modern technology, can now be limited to the lower horizontal blocks the eighties model had, removing the rounded ones up top. Still, for some reason, this project ignores what was probably the 928's most iconic feature: the shape of the rear end and the taillights.However, even if it's not true to the original, the important thing is the overall design of the 928 e still manages to look good and very much Porsche-like. The one thing we don't likeand designers keep using it, even on official conceptsis the wrap covering the side windows. We get there's still glass there, and the visibility from inside the cabin is largely unaffected, but it just looks weird. Plus, it's usually a sign for a self-driving car, and do we really want that from a Porsche , even if it is a four-seat grand tourer?
In todays riding gear industry, airbag tops arent exactly a new development. Back in the day, this particular market segment was dominated by manufacturers like Dainese and Alpinestars , but we see an ever-growing number of companies who want to get in on the action, such as RST and Held, to name a couple.Recently, Italys beloved Tucano Urbano joined the aforementioned lineup with its state-of-the-art Airscud vest, which can also be fitted with sleeves if weather conditions demand a full-blown riding jacket. Although it may not be revolutionary, it does come across as being highly versatile, comfy, and above all, reliable.Tucanos vest is fabricated using lightweight Taslan polyamide as the primary material and top-grade 500D Oxford polyamide for the more exposed impact zones. The Airscud comes equipped with no fewer than seven sensors, including three gyroscopes, three accelerometers, and a GPS.These modules feed information back to a premium In&motion system, which will deploy the airbag as soon as it detects any danger. In just 60 milliseconds, the wearers neck, chest, abdomen, and spine will all be shielded against direct impact. Furthermore, the rider can switch between three separate modes (Street, Adventure or Track) via the In&motion app, enabling the setup to adapt to any given situation better.A CE Level 1 pad houses a set of tiny LEDs at the back that indicate status and battery levels. As for the sleeves, they feature D3O Level 1 armor for your elbows and shoulders, so you can be sure that Tucanos Airscud will have you covered in the event of a crash. An L-sized vest will tip the scales at 5.8 lbs (2.6 kg) when equipped with the add-on sleeves, which weigh in at 1.5 lbs (0.7 kg) by themselves.If you pre-order this tasty piece of gear by Monday (May 31st), the whole package will cost you 399 ($488 as per current exchange rates), sleeves included. Otherwise, the add-ons are priced at 120 ($147) when purchased separately, and an additional monthly fee of 12 (about $15) will be charged for the In&motion subscription.
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The boss of Israel's spy agency has been in private talks with former Treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin about joining his investment fund that will work with Gulf countries, two sources familiar with the conversations tell Axios.

Why it matters: Yossi Cohen, director of the Mossad, is retiring next week. But the discussions between him and Mnuchin occurred while he was still serving in his government role, which also included handling Israel's ties with Gulf countries such as Qatar and Saudi Arabia, these sources said.

Cohen and a representative for Mnuchin declined to comment when Axios approached them about these discussions. A source who spoke to Cohen said no final decision has been made about him joining Mnuchin's fund.

State of play: Mnuchin's fund is expected to raise money from sovereign wealth funds in the Persian Gulf region. Funds for Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are evaluating cooperation with Mnuchin, according to sources familiar with their deliberations.

Former U.S. ambassador to Israel David Friedman also has discussed joining Mnuchin's fund. Friedman worked with Cohen during the Trump presidency on many issues, including Israel's relations with Gulf countries.

They resulted in a series of direct normalization agreements between Israel and several Arab countries known collectively as the "Abraham Accords."

The big picture: Both Mnuchin and Cohen worked closely with Qatar, the UAE and other Gulf states as part of their government jobs and traveled to the region several times.
Secretary of State Tony Blinken warned Israeli leaders on his visit to Jerusalem this week that evictions of Palestinian families from East Jerusalem or further unrest on the Temple Mount could spark renewed tension, conflict and war," he told me in a phone interview.

What hes saying: Speaking on his flight back from the Middle East, Blinken said the most important aspect of his trip was that he heard directly from Israel and indirectly from Hamas, through Egypt, that both want to maintain the ceasefire. But it's also important that we avoid various actions that could unintentionally, or not, spark another round of violence," Blinken said.

We raised the concerns that we have on all sides with actions that in the first instance could spark tension, conflict and war and also ultimately undermine even further the difficult prospects for two states," he said.

While meeting with Israeli officials, Blinken mentioned evictions of Palestinians from their homes where they lived for decades and generations, the demolitions of housing as well... and of course everything that took place on and around the Temple Mount," or al-Aqsa Mosque compound, where confrontations between police and protesters continued even after the ceasefire.

Blinken mentioned evictions of Palestinians from their homes where they lived for decades and generations, the demolitions of housing as well... and of course everything that took place on and around the Temple Mount," or al-Aqsa Mosque compound, where confrontations between police and protesters continued even after the ceasefire. With Palestinian leaders, "we raised incitement to violence or letting violence go forward with impunity," Blinken said, as well as the "very problematic" payments made to the families of Palestinians convicted of terrorism.

"we raised incitement to violence or letting violence go forward with impunity," Blinken said, as well as the "very problematic" payments made to the families of Palestinians convicted of terrorism. He would not characterize the responses of either side to those warnings, saying hed let them speak for themselves about how they're taking all that on board."

Why it matters: Israels Supreme Court asked the attorney general to submit by June 8 his legal opinion about the impending expulsions of Palestinian families from the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood of Jerusalem in favor of Jewish settlers. The potential expulsions drove the protests that preceded the fighting in Gaza

The delay gives the Israeli government the opportunity to ask the court not to order the evictions or to seek another solution to avert a new crisis.

Driving the news: Blinken's flight took off from Jordan, where he'd met with King Abdullah II. One of the main issues discussed was the situation in Jerusalem and Sheikh Jarrah in particular, the Royal Court said in a statement.

On the flight back home, Blinken called the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and Qatar. He updated them on his talks in the region and asked for their support for humanitarian and development efforts in Gaza.

Qatar announced on Wednesday it would donate $500 million for the reconstruction efforts in Gaza.

The big picture: Blinken said one takeaway from his trip in the region and the events of the last several weeks is that the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians has "not magically disappeared," and needs to be addressed.

The Secretary of State pushed back on the suggestion that the Biden administration neglected the conflict in its first few months in office, noting its early steps to reengage with Palestinians.

But he acknowledged that the administration didn't put much emphasis on the peace process because the conditions were not ripe for any progress, particularly due to the ongoing government formation process in Israel and the delayed Palestinian elections.

In the absence of more positive conditions, I think it is hard to see what utility there would be in making some kind of major push right out of the box," he said.

That's an issue "for tomorrow," Blinken said. "There's a lot to be done to get to a place where realistically we can see prospects for doing something meaningful."

The state of play: Blinken said the most urgent matter is to build on the ceasefire in Gaza and lay the foundations for greater stability in the West Bank and Jerusalem.

The ceasefire was not an end in itself, as important as it was, but also a means to have some space to start to build something a little bit more positive," he added.

The Biden administration wants to move as fast as possible on the reconstruction of Gaza. Blinken said the process has to be led by the UN together with the Palestinian Authority and Egypt and be done in a way that will assist the population but not benefit Hamas.

Yes, but: The Israeli government said it would not allow the reconstruction of Gaza without progress toward the return of the bodies of Israeli soldiers and the release of Israeli citizens held by Hamas. Israel and Egypt tightly control the borders of the Gaza Strip.

Israel also announced new restrictions on the entry of goods into Gaza, for example blocking chocolate powder on Thursday because it wasnt designated as humanitarian aid.

We fully understand the deep need to bring the remains of the soldiers and the Israeli citizens back home. And to the extent that we can help in any way we certainly will. At the same time, I think there are very urgent needs for many people in Gaza that needs to be addressed," Blinken said.

The Secretary of State said the "one of the best means" to help prevent a cycle of violence is to increase the opportunities available to people in Gaza.

What Hamas feeds on is the lack of hope and lack of opportunity. So the best answer is to try and provide that and to make sure that the Palestinian authority has a role to play in delivering that hope and opportunity, as well as others including Israel, so I think it makes a profound strategic sense  never mind mind the importance on a human level.

Whats next: During his visit to Israel, Blinken announced that the Biden administration would move forward with reopening the U.S. consulate in Jerusalem that was shut down by the Trump administration.

As Axios has reported, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Blinken he had reservations about this move. But Blinken told me the move was both necessary and in Israel's interest.

Blinken stressed the reopening of the consulate won't change the U.S. recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital, nor mean any recognition of Jerusalem as a capital for the Palestinians, which he said was a matter for direct negotiations between the parties.

So I think there is no basis for concern. To the contrary, I think, it is beneficial to everyone. If we're not engaged with the Palestinians that undercuts our ability to advance things that I think would be everyone's benefit, including Israel," Blinken said.

Go deeper: Inside Biden's response to the Gaza crisis
PHOENIX (AP)  Arizona Republicans are pushing to create criminal penalties for election workers and volunteers who deviate from procedures and to give prosecutors all mail ballots rejected for signature problems.

Those provisions are part of a sweeping elections measure debated in the House on Tuesday ahead of a possible vote in the coming days as lawmakers rush to end the legislative session.

Democrats and voting rights advocates said the threat of criminal penalties will create a chilling effect on election workers and voters. The measure is advancing as Republican-controlled states push to enact more restrictive voting laws following former President Donald Trump's 2020 loss. Trump and many of his staunch supporters have pushed unfounded allegations that the election was marred by fraud.

Arizonans should be able to vote and make our voices heard without being subject to harassment, intimidation and criminal scrutiny, a coalition of liberal groups and voting rights advocacy organizations wrote in a statement, which also called the bill a real threat to Arizonas ability to conduct free and fair elections going forward.

The measure adopts a series of election changes pushed by Sen. Kelly Townsend, a Republican from Mesa. Republicans say they will bolster confidence in elections.

Some of the provisions appear to respond to conspiracy theories about the election, including a requirement that election data be stored in the United States. The measure also requires voters be offered a receipt for their ballot, imposes new restrictions on physical security of counting facilities and limits internet connectivity.

Democrats say some of the requirements are unworkable. They worry election workers will get bogged down writing ballot receipts, leading to longer lines at polling places.

But critics are especially concerned about the threat of criminal investigation or charges.

The measure, SB1241, would require county election officials to give to state or local prosecutors mail ballots that get rejected because the signature doesnt match the one on file. Democrats say that will have an especially big impact on older voters, those with health conditions or disabilities that limit their motor skills, and younger voters who havent yet solidified their signature.

Voters with rejected signatures have until five days after the election to fix the issue. Ballots left unresolved at the end of that period would have to go to prosecutors.

There is no good reason to be handing over these ballots and materials to the attorney general just because the voter wasnt able to get in contact with the county recorder in time, said Rep. Athena Salman, a Tempe Democrat. Even if they did nothing wrong, facing questioning from prosecutors would be intimidating for voters, she said.

Salman said she is also concerned about ballot secrecy, noting ballots and envelopes identifying the voter would be handed over to the offices of elected prosecutors whose own races may be on the ballot.

Out of about 1.9 million early ballots in November, Maricopa County was unable to resolve signature problems on 587 of them. Those ballots were not counted, along with another 1,455 that were returned without a signature.

The measure would also make it a misdemeanor to connect voting machines to the internet or to deviate from other election procedures.

Rep. John Kavanagh, R-Fountain Hills, said criminal penalties would only come into play for intentional violations of the law.

Arizona audit of 2020 election resumes after weeklong hiatus PHOENIX (AP)  A Republican-led hand recount of ballots cast in Arizona's most populous coun

Arizona has been at the forefront of efforts by Trump supporters to cast doubt on the 2020 election. Republicans in the state Senate took control of ballots, equipment and data from Arizona's largest county and hired a Trump supporter who has promoted election conspiracies to run an unprecedented partisan audit of the results.

President Joe Biden was only the second Democrat since World War II to win Arizona, a narrow victory powered by voters in Maricopa County, which includes the Phoenix area and 60% of Arizona's 2020 voters.



Associated Press writer Bob Christie contributed.
CHANDLER, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) -- Following the announcement of murder charges against Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell in Idaho this week, the Chandler Police Department announced on Thursday the recommendation of an additional charge against Vallow.

A spokesperson for the Chandler Police Department says a charge of conspiracy to commit first-degree murder for the 2019 death of Charles Vallow, Lori's former husband, was submitted to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office on April 1. Police say the MCAO is reviewing the submitted charge and will decide whether to move forward with prosecution.

Lawyers who represent Charles Vallow praised the move and said they were grateful for all of the law enforcement involved. "Charles feared for his life and predicted his demise from the day he stepped in our office and said, 'If anything happens to me, it was Lori and her brother Alex who did it,'" the statement said.

Competent to stand trial?

The announcement comes on the same day the defense team for Vallow requested a competency evaluation to "determine the Defendant's fitness to proceed," in the case. A Freemont County District Judge ordered a stay in the case pending a determination of Vallow's evaluation.

A licensed clinical psychologist performed the assessment and reportedly found Vallow not competent to proceed and recommended restorative treatment. The prosecutors for the State of Idaho are contesting the findings of the report, which will force a hearing on the issue. The stay in the case remains in effect pending the hearing. A day and time hasn't been set yet for the hearing.

"By no means is this the end of the road," said Phoenix defense attorney Jason Lamm, who is not connected to the Vallow case.

0:51 Chandler PD recommends charge against Lori Vallow in husband's 2019 death The Chandler Police Department is recommending a conspiracy to commit first-degree murder charge against Lori Vallow in the 2019 death of her 

"You're going to get into a battle, ultimately, with dueling experts. And let's not forget when people are facing charges, serious charges like murder, they can malinger. They can fake. They can pretend they have psychological disorders in order to evade responsibility," said Lamm.

Chandler investigation

The potential new charge against Lori stems from the death of Charles Vallow, who was shot and killed by Lori's brother, Alex Cox, in Chandler in July 2019. Tylee and JJ vanished a few months later.

At the time, Cox claimed self-defense. Cox reported the shooting to 911, performed CPR on Vallow and answered questions from investigators, according to police records. He never faced charges due to his death in December 2019.

According to an Arizona's Family Investigates story, Charles filed for divorce in February 2019. He reportedly had what is described as a sizable life insurance policy, according to two sources who had first-hand knowledge of Charles' financial situation. Chandler investigators were not immediately aware of the existence of the policy.

/ Arizona's Family Investigates Exclusive: Charles Vallow had 'substantial' life insurance policy

Current charges

Vallow and Daybell are currently facing multiple charges in Idaho for the deaths of Vallow's children, 17-year-old Tylee Ryan, 7-year-old Joshua "JJ" Vallow, and 49-year-old Tammy Daybell, Chad's former wife.

During Wednesday's court appearance in Fremont County, 7th District Judge Faren Eddins explained to Chad Daybell the penalties he could face if convicted of any of the eight charges he is facing under a new indictment released earlier this week. Both Lori and Chad Daybell could face the death penalty or life in prison if they are convicted of murder or conspiring to murder the victims in the case.

Chad Daybell is charged with three counts each of first-degree murder and conspiring to commit murder and grand theft by deception, as well as two additional counts of insurance fraud in connection with the life insurance policies on his late wife. Vallow is charged with three counts of conspiring to commit murder and grand theft by deception, as well as two counts of murder in connection with the deaths of her children. Vallow is also charged with two counts of grand theft because prosecutors say she collected her children's Social Security survivor benefits after they died.

JJ Vallow's birthday

Kay and Larry Woodcock, JJ's biological grandparents, say it has been a rollercoaster of emotions.

"Yesterday was not a good day in the fact that it was JJ's birthday and he's not here with us -- 9 years old. I can only imagine what he would be like today at 9 years old. It was a hard day for us but on the other hand, it was a wonderful day that people are finally being held absolutely accountable for their misdeeds," said Larry.

While Lori and Chad are facing these new charges, Kay and Larry say they're not done seeking justice. "Next on our radar is Chandler, Arizona for Charles (Vallow). We've got three down, one to go. And he's next," Kay said.

Next steps

A spokesperson for MCAO said it's not clear when a decision will be made on the Chandler Police Department's recommendation.
Bakersfield, CA (93308)

Today

Mainly sunny. High 91F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

A mostly clear sky. Low 66F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
Email Dan Walters of CALmatters at dan@calmatters.org. CALmatters is a nonpartisan, nonprofit journalism venture committed to explaining Californias policies and politics. For more columns by Walters, go to calmatters.org/commentary.
Joe Rogan has fully embraced life in Texas.

The poster man for podcasts sat down with Austin Mayor Steve Adler for an interview this week. The two discussed the pandemic, life in the "utopia" of Austin and the city's troubled relationship with its un-homed population.

SECRET MENU?: Here's what you can order from Whataburger's secret menu

Here are some revealing points of conversation that came up between Rogan and the mayor of our state's capital:

1. Joe Rogan thinks Austin doesn't have traffic?

Oh, sweet summer child. When Adler mentioned that Austin reportedly has some of the worst congestion in the country, Rogan immediately pushed back, "Traffic here is literally a joke... You guys don't have traffic." Remember, this is a guy who moved to Texas during the pandemic, so he hasn't experienced the hell that is either of Austin's highways at 3 p.m.

When I was a lowly newspaper intern in Austin, it regularly took me 35 minutes or more to get to my home only 3 miles away, and that was the faster route that avoided I-35. No traffic? I have to laugh.

2. Rogan says 10 of his friends have moved to Austin since he got there.

We know Texas (and especially Austin) has experienced a huge influx of newcomers in recent years. Rogan himself arrived sometime around September of last year. That 10 of his friends have moved there in just nine months really puts the migration into some sort of perspective.

"When I ran for reelection there were lots of people coming up to me and their one ask was that I would stop the city from growing," Adler said.

Rogan put it differently: "It's too good here. It's such a good city."

"I think Austin could easily be the center for comedy," Rogan continued. "Ten friends have moved here within the last year and it's continuing to pile up and as more comics here about the great Austin scene, more will move here."

IN TEXAS: Greg Abbott names 'official handgun' of Texas for some reason

3. Homelessness is not that big of a problem in Austin

With all the attention Austin gets for this issue, you'd think tens of thousands of people were experiencing homelessness in our capital city. But according to Adler, it's a fraction of that size: around 3,000, a number Adler frequently threw out during the podcast.

Adler praised Houston as a city that has successfully reduced its un-homed population through outreach and housing programs. Houston's homeless population decreased from 8,400 in 2011 to around 3,800 in 2020, according to a 2020 Houston Chronicle reporta decrease of more than 50 precent.

The mayor also told Rogan he hopes to achieve in three years what Houston did over 20. The mayor also mentioned there are 250 people experiencing homelessness in Austin who are frequently in emergency rooms or arrested, each person costing the city $220,000 per year, according to adler.

"I wish there was like a contest, where people from around the country or around the city or wherever could come in and like, there would be a prize if you could turn any of these 250 people into working productive members of society," Rogan pondered. "... Clean them up, counsel them... I wonder what could be done if there was real incentive, say if there was a million-dollar prize, ... it seems like it could be done."

4. Rogan did ask Adler about his jaunt to Cabo San Lucas during the pandemic.

Cruz wasn't the only politician who hopped down to Mexico during the pandemic. Adler was there in November 2020 after his daughter's wedding and posted a video to Facebook encouraging Austinites to stay home while he was on vacation.

"You had a little problem during the pandemic with that one thing you did, kind of told people to stay home when you weren't staying home," Rogan asked toward the end of the interview.

"I was already gone," a sheepish Adler responded. "It was a mistake on so many different levels. I went on a trip at a time where it was okay to take a trip, got information while I was on the trip, I should never have warned people back home."

"I should have come home first, then reported it," Adler said.
MIAMI (AP)  One of the worlds top electronic music festivals is returning to downtown Miami next year with the blessing of neighbors who have complained about the event in the past.

Organizers of the Ultra Music Festival announced Tuesday an agreement to settle tensions with the Downtown Neighbors Alliance, the Miami Herald reported. The association representing 13 downtown condominium towers will no longer seek to remove the event from Bayfront Park.

Ultra said in a statement it would address issues like construction schedules, park closures, noise monitoring and traffic management.

Festival organizers and residents found a balance between protecting local lifestyles and hosting large-scale music productions, Ultra spokesman Ray Martinez said. He suggested the event being canceled the past two years might have helped negotiations.

Maybe the COVID pause gave both sides an opportunity to kind of take a breath, if you will, and come to the table without the impending event looming over either side, Martinez said.

Downtown Neighbors Alliance President James Torres said in a statement that his group was pleased with the deal.

We believe that this agreement will allow Ultra and its neighbors to coexist and will highlight Downtown Miami as One Community for All, and a great place to live, work and play, Torres said.

Ultra had been hosted in downtown Miami for nearly two decades until 2018. After that year's event, city commissioners voted not to renew the festival's contract following complaints from residents. Ultra organizers moved the festival to Virginia Key in 2019, but logistical issues and sound complaints from new neighbors prompted organizers not to seek another year at that location.

Ultra was set to return to downtown Miami in March 2020, but a nationwide coronavirus lockdown going into effect just days before the festival forced its cancelation. The event was postponed for another year this past March, set to return in 2022.
The Met Gala should be so lucky.

In a spectacular (though sadly fictional) red carpet moment that easily rivals Lady Gagas 2019 Met Gala striptease , a sanitation truck arrives, ready to offload its trash. But then Emma Stone as Cruella de Vil somehow emerges from the detritus, gathering a 40-foot-train around her and looking like a demented Cinderella arriving at the ball  if her fairy godmother were a hybrid of Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen.

Her nemesis, Emma Thompson as the icy Baroness von Wintour, we mean von Hellman, glares. And there we have the three main elements that make Disneys Cruella a guilty pleasure, at least for the eyes: Emma S, Emma T, and fashion. Killer fashion.

Lets get out of the way whats sure to be the major complaint about this film, an origin story for the dog-hunting Disney villainess introduced in the 1961 animated classic One Hundred and One Dalmatians: Its long. No really. Its loooong. At 134 minutes, it definitely could benefit from a pair of shears.

But, rather like that 40-foot-train garbage dress  kudos to costume designer Jenny Beavan, the film's true heroine  why cut when you have Emma Stone in you, giving her all? That was probably the thinking from director Craig Gillespie. It does make some sense. Stone is always compelling, and with an ace nemesis in Thompson, shes having a blast.

Plus, with all those clothes, and a story set in the colorful punk revolution of 1970s London (with soundtrack to match), you need more movie. Thompson wears more than 30 looks, each more haute (read haughty) than the next, and Stone around 50. Still, when a movie brazenly celebrates style over substance, part of style is arguably knowing when to stop.

Lets also get the obvious puns out of the way: The De Vil Wears Prada. The Devil Wears Disney. Etc. Yes, there's more than a passing reference to that very durable 2006 film, which also pitted an aspiring young woman (Anne Hathaway) against a powerful fashion-world ice queen (Meryl Streep) modeled on Wintour. Then again, Hathaways Andy had nothing against puppies, as far as we know.

So back to Cruella. Youll remember she was brought to life (and live action) by Glenn Close in the 1996 and 2000 movies. This film begins at birth. How did she become the frightening figure who would scheme to kill puppies to make a coat? If she doesnt scare you, no evil thing will, went the song in 1961.

The screenplay does not entirely succeed in answering this question. The conundrum: Central to Stones appeal is that we love her, always. Whatever trouble she gets in, we want her to succeed. And so, like her trusty band of friends here  Jasper and Horace and Anita Darling  we remain on her side throughout. But really, is there a way one can love someone who will grow up to plot to skin puppies? Best to gloss over that, which the film sorta does.

We learn that Estella  her birth name  struggled as a child to tame her nasty side. Her sweet mother teasingly reminds her: Your name is Estella, not CRUEL-la.

At her small-town school, the young girl with a natural two-toned shock of black and white hair (an appealing Tipper Seifert-Cleveland) and passion for fashion gets into trouble, and Mum decides to move them to London. But tragedy strikes, and soon Estella is an orphan.

Luckily, she meets up with a pair of petty thieves, Horace and Jasper, who take pity and allow her to join the trade. You dont got too many options, they advise her.

Ten years go by. Estella (now Stone), an expert thief, gets her big break: a job cleaning floors at Liberty in London (arranged by Jasper and Horace, now played by Joel Fry and and an amusing Paul Walter Hauser; Kirby Howell-Baptiste has too few scenes as Anita.) Hey, its an honest wage. One night, drunk and frustrated, she redesigns a store window display. The baroness (Thompson), the worlds top designer, sees the rebellious window and immediately hires Estella.

As an employer, the baroness is cruel and capricious (not a comfortable source of comedy these days, but whatever). Still, she recognizes Estellas talent. Meanwhile, Estella discovers something disturbing about the baroness that connects to her own past. And thus the vicious showdown begins. Its her or me, the baroness says: I choose me.

And the weapon is fashion. And so, second only to that garbage-truck dress, we have another fabulous red-carpet moment with Stone in a voluminous red skirt (Beavan says she used more than 5,000 petals of fabric to keep it light), a bejeweled military jacket and Doc Martens, stomping on top of the baronesss car, swooshing her skirt around and literally swallowing the vehicle.

The Met Gala is returning this fall, folks. The red carpet awaits. Lady Gaga, are you listening?

Cruella, a Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures release, has been rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association of America for some violence and thematic elements.  Running time: 134 minutes. Two and a half stars out of four.

___

MPAA definition of PG-13: Parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP)  Abdullah Mohammadi lost his two legs and an arm below the elbow in a ferocious battle with the Taliban. As a young soldier, he had been eager to fight for his country, but now hes furious at a government he says ignores him and hasn't paid his veterans pension in almost one year.

Afghanistans National Defense and Security Forces, meant to be the bulwark against advancing Taliban insurgents, are rife with corruption, demoralized and struggling to keep territory. The government says the army can hold its own, but military experts warn of a tough fight ahead for poorly trained, ill-equipped troops whose loyalties waver between their country and local warlords.

By Sept. 11 at the latest, the remaining 2,300-3,500 U.S. troops and roughly 7,000 allied NATO forces will have left Afghanistan, ending nearly 20 years of military engagement. Also leaving is the American air support that the Afghan military has relied on to stave off potentially game-changing Taliban assaults, ever since it took command of the war from the U.S. and NATO in 2014.

Without U.S. military support, it is a matter of time before the Taliban consolidates its gains, particularly in the south, east and west, said Bill Roggio, senior fellow at the American Foundation for the Defense of Democracies and editor of its Long War Journal, which tracks militant movements.

This week, some of the heaviest fighting since President Joe Biden announced the end to America's forever war took place in eastern Laghman province with the Taliban threatening the provincial capital of Mehtar Lam. Particularly worrisome going forward, police and army deserted several posts protecting the city, allowing Taliban to walk in and keep abandoned military equipment as their own.

At least half the country is believed to be contested ground, often with the government holding only the main towns and cities in local districts and the Taliban dominating the countryside.

Within the Afghan army, soldiers complain of substandard equipment, even shoddy basic items like army boots that fall apart within weeks because corrupt contractors used inferior material. The Associated Press witnessed boots with gaping holes being worn, insufficient helmets available and weapons that often jammed.

At a police outpost seen by the AP earlier this month, eight men lived in a partially built bunker that looked big enough for only half that number. They had only a few rifles as they watched sentry from two turret-style posts on the outposts high brick walls. They overlook a busy road where the Taliban frequently attack security convoys.

The commander, who wore sandals, said the outpost is occasionally hit by rocket or gunfire and would have a hard time fending off a full-fledged attack.

Theres no other option but peace, he said, asking not to be identified because he did not have permission to allow the media into his compound.

Mohammadi, the veteran, was wounded six years ago in Zhari district in southern Kandahar province, once the spiritual heartland of the Taliban until their ouster in 2001 by U.S.-led coalition forces.

He led a company of 18 men airlifted into battle in a grape field, about 5 kilometers (3 miles) from their nearest base. The fight went on all day and night until eventually the Taliban surrounded them.

For a year he recovered in hospital. He received two wooden legs and an artificial plastic hand. The legs are painful to wear and he can manage them only for 15 minutes at a time. It takes two people to help him get them on, and he sometimes pays a neighbor to help.

I am proud of what I have sacrificed for this country. What I gave for my country I gave with pride, he said.

But Mohammadi is fuming at the government. For years, his veterans pension, around 16,000 Afghanis ($200) a month, has been erratic, and for the past 11 months he hasnt received it at all. They tell me to wait, he said.

Mohammadi says has had to borrow from family and friends. It wounds his pride, but its better than begging, he said.

Speaking to the AP, Defense Ministry Deputy Spokesman Fawad Aman promised to look into the complaint. He said that corruption, while it exists, is not widespread and efforts are being made to tackle it and that the spirit of the fighting force was high.

With the withdrawal of United States forces there will be no security vacuum or gap in Afghanistan because our forces can defend Afghanistan independently, he said.

Washingtons chief watchdog overseeing U.S. spending in Afghanistan, John Sopko, told a Congressional hearing in March that corruption is one of the biggest threats to Afghanistans security force and is fueling the insurgency.

The U.S is committed to pay $4 billion annually until 2024 to finance Afghanistans security forces. As of Dec. 31, 2020, Sopko said the U.S. has spent $88.3 billion to help the Afghan government provide security in Afghanistan  roughly 62% of all U.S. reconstruction funding.

Yet, according to Attiqullah Amarkhiel, the Afghan army of today is half as good as the army left by the former Soviet Union when it withdrew in 1989, ending its 10-year occupation of Afghanistan.

Amarkhiel was major general in the 1989 Moscow-allied Afghan army and served in the post-Taliban government of President Hamid Karzai. He helped build the security forces following the Talibans fall in 2001.

The army of 1989 were professional educated soldiers, unlike the mostly uneducated post-Taliban force. Then the army numbered 150,000 troops, compared to the 300,000 today. But then we had quality. Today we have quantity.
LSCO

Lamar State College Orange announced Wednesday that a new plaza currently under construction on campus will be named Gatemouth Plaza in honor and in memory of the late Grammy award-winning and multi-talented musician and Orange native, Clarence Gatemouth Brown.

LSCO President Thomas Johnson brought the concept to the Texas State University System Board of Regents to create a permanent place to honor Oranges own music legend, according to a press release.
After more than a year of social distancing, hand sanitizing and face masks in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lamar State College Port Arthur is moving back to a state of normalcy as the Fall 2021 semester nears.

LSCPA announced Wednesday that it will return to face-to-face classes in the fall semester, following the direction of other Texas State University System schools across the state that are doing the same.

It feels like the pandemic has gone on forever, but were finally seeing the light at the end of this very dark tunnel, LSCPA President Betty Reynard said in a written statement. We have carefully followed the CDC guidelines through this entire situation and now we feel it is safe to move to a more normal delivery of classes on campus.

A recent executive order by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott established that most state agencies, including institutions of higher education, may no longer require face coverings. Students attending face-to-face classes still have the choice to wear a mask.

Related: Lamar University, LIT rescind mask requirements

On Wednesday the school also announced that it is scheduling a free COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic during the month of June, which will be hosted by the Port Arthur Public Health Department.

This will allow students, faculty and staff to quickly and easily receive the COVID-19 vaccination.

The vaccination is not required to attend face-to-face classes at Lamar State College Port Arthur, Reynard said. But we wanted to make every effort to provide this opportunity for those who have not had a chance to receive the vaccination.

Once the fall semester begins, social distancing no longer will be required on campus. This will allow for once-regular campus events and classroom instruction to take place as they have in the past.

Top hits: Get Beaumont Enterprise stories sent directly to your inbox

While face-to-face offerings will ramp back up for the Fall 2021 semester, LSCPA will continue to offer a wide variety of online classes to help those who would rather continue remote education and for people who work and need the online opportunity to take classes.

Whether a student takes classes on campus in a classroom or on a computer at home, they will receive one of the best educational opportunities in the state of Texas, Reynard said. Our dedication to students and their success, especially through this pandemic, has never wavered.

Related: LSCO, LSCPA offer BOGO deal on summer classes

Registration is underway for summer and fall semesters at LSCPA with a buy one, get one promotion where students can get three free summer credit hours with the purchase of three hours and up to six free fall credit hours with the purchase of up to six credit hours.

For more information on admissions, registration and financial aid, contact LSCPA Enrollment Counselors at 409-984-6467 or at enrollmentservices@lamarpa.edu.

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SEATTLE (AP)  The Washington state attorney general on Thursday charged two Tacoma police officers with murder and another with manslaughter in the death of Manuel Ellis, a Black man who died after repeatedly telling them he couldnt breathe as he was being restrained.

Attorney General Bob Ferguson filed charges of second-degree murder against Christopher Burbank and Matthew Collins, and first-degree manslaughter against Timothy Rankine. The three were in custody by Thursday evening, Ferguson's office said, with their arraignments set for Friday.

Witnesses reported seeing Burbank and Collins, who are both white, attack Ellis without provocation, according to a probable cause statement filed in Pierce County Superior Court. Rankine, who is described as Asian in court documents, is accused of putting pressure on Ellis back as he said he couldnt breathe.

Ellis, 33, died on March 3, 2020  Tasered, handcuffed and hogtied, with his face covered by a spit hood  just weeks before George Floyds death under the knee of a white Minneapolis police officer triggered a nationwide reckoning on race and policing.

The Pierce County medical examiner called Ellis' death a homicide and attributed it to lack of oxygen from being restrained, with an enlarged heart and methamphetamine intoxication as contributing factors.

The death made Ellis name synonymous with pleas for justice at protests in the Pacific Northwest. His final words  I cant breathe, sir!  were captured by a home security camera, as was the retort from one of the officers: Shut the (expletive) up, man.

Ellis was not fighting back, the probable cause statement said. All three civilian witnesses at the intersection ... state that they never saw Ellis strike at the officers.

The case marks the first time the attorney general's office has charged police officers with unlawful use of deadly force, Ferguson said.

Five Tacoma officers have been on paid home leave pending the charging decision, and Ferguson said the investigation is continuing. Attorneys for the defendants did not immediately return messages seeking comment.

We are disappointed the facts were ignored in favor of what appears to be a politically motivated witch hunt, the Tacoma Police Union said in a written statement. An unbiased jury will not allow these fine public servants to be sacrificed at the altar of public sentiment.

The encounter began after Burbank and Collins reported seeing Ellis trying to get into occupied cars at a red light. Ellis, recently back from church, had walked to a convenience store to get a late-night snack: powdered, raspberry-filled donuts.

The officers cast Ellis as the aggressor, saying he punched the window of their cruiser and attacked them as they got out, according to statements from other officers cited in the charging documents.

But two witnesses who recorded parts of the fatal interaction came forward with identical stories, saying the police attacked without provocation. An officer in the passenger side of a patrol car slammed his door into Ellis, knocking him down, and then jumped on him and started beating him, they said.

The witnesses described seeing a casual interaction between the officers and Ellis before Burbank struck Ellis with his car door  there was no sudden, random attack by Ellis as the officers described that night to others," the probable cause statement said.

The video the witnesses recorded corroborated that Ellis did not attempt to strike the officers, though at times he resisted their efforts to restrain him, the statement said.

Pierce County Sheriff Ed Troyer, who was then a detective and the spokesman for the sheriffs office, said after Ellis' death that none of the officers placed a knee on his neck or head. But one of the witness videos that later surfaced depicts just that.

The Pierce County Sheriffs Office botched the initial investigation into Ellis death by failing to disclose for three months that one of its deputies had been involved in restraining Ellis; state law requires independent investigations. The Washington State Patrol took over, and the Attorney Generals Office conducted its review based on evidence gathered by the patrol as well as its own additional investigation.

In a written statement, interim Tacoma Police Chief Mike Ake said the department would now begin an internal review of the death and make determinations regarding any discipline or additional training or policy changes that might be warranted.

We realize we must reduce outcomes that cause pain and diminish trust within our community, he said. We are committed to upholding accountability of individual officers who violate their oath to protect and serve.

Ellis had a history of mental illness and addiction. In September 2019, he was found naked after trying to rob a fast food restaurant. A sheriffs deputy subdued him with a Taser after he refused to remain down on the ground and charged toward law enforcement.

His landlords at the sober housing where he was staying told The Seattle Times he had been doing well in recent months after embracing mental health care for his schizophrenia. He had been attending church frequently, where he was a drummer in a worship band.

At a news conference Thursday, Ellis' family welcomed the charges but called for more work to overhaul the criminal justice system. The family is seeking $30 million in a lawsuit against the city.

The criminal system needs to be made over, from the head  just take it all off, said Ellis' mother, Marcia Carter-Patterson. She added: This is about Manuel Elijah Ellis. This is his work. So help us with it.

Ellis death, Pierce Countys botched investigation into it, and the national outcry for racial justice helped inspire Gov. Jay Inslee to convene a task force to suggest ways to guarantee independent reviews of police use of deadly force.

Last week, Inslee signed one of the nations most ambitious packages of police accountability legislation, including outright bans on police use of chokeholds, neck restraints and no-knock warrants. The legislation also makes it easier to decertify police for bad acts  and creates an independent office to review deadly force cases.

The charged officers could face up to life in prison if convicted, but the standard sentencing range is 10 to 18 years for second-degree murder with no prior criminal history, and 6.5 to 8.5 years for manslaughter.

All three previously served in the Army, the attorney general's office said, and as police officers all had taken training on crisis intervention. Collins, 38, and Burbank, 35, had each been an officer for four years by March 2020 after serving eight years in the Army. Rankine, 32, joined the department in 2018 after six years in the Army and two as a security contractor for the U.S. State Department.

Police reform activists have long bemoaned the prevalence of former soldiers in civilian departments, saying they tend to be more aggressive than called for.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP)  A southwestern Ohio woman won the state's first $1 million Vax-a-Million vaccination incentive prize, while a Dayton-area teen was awarded the first full-ride college scholarship offered by the program, the state announced Wednesday night.

The winners were selected in a random drawing Monday and had their information confirmed before the formal announcement at the end of the Ohio Lotterys Cash Explosion TV show.

The lottery announced that Abbigail Bugenske of Silverton near Cincinnati was the $1 million winner, while Joseph Costello of Englewood near Dayton was the college scholarship winner.

Were excited that this has inspired so many Ohioans to get vaccinated, and were thrilled to announce the winners of the first round of drawings, said Gov. Mike DeWine.

More than 2.7 million adults signed up for the $1 million prize and more than 104,000 children ages 12 to 17 entered the drawing for the college scholarship, which includes tuition, room and board, and books. Four more $1 million and college scholarship winners will be announced each Wednesday for the next four weeks.

DeWine, a Republican, announced the program May 12 to boost lagging vaccination rates.

The Ohio Lottery conducted the first drawing Monday afternoon at its draw studio in Cleveland using a random number generator to pick the winners ahead of time, and then confirmed the eligibility of the ultimate winner.

Participants must register to enter by phone or via the Vax-a-Million website. Teens can register themselves, but parents or legal guardians must verify their eligibility. The names of entrants who don't win will be carried over week to week. The deadline for new registrations is just before midnight on Sunday.

I know that some may say, DeWine, youre crazy! This million-dollar drawing idea of yours is a waste of money, the governor said when he announced the incentive. But with the vaccine now readily available, the real waste, is a life lost to COVID-19, the governor said.

The concept seemed to work, at least initially. The number of people in Ohio age 16 and older who received their initial COVID-19 vaccine jumped 33% in the week after the state announced its million-dollar incentive lottery, according to an Associated Press analysis.

But the same review also found that vaccination rates are still well below figures from earlier in April and March.

More than 5.2 million people in Ohio had at least started the vaccination process as of Monday, or about 45% of the state. About 4.6 million people are done getting vaccinated, or 39% of the state. Nationally, more than 165 million Americans have started the vaccination process, or about nearly 50% of the population. More than 131 million are fully vaccinated, or nearly 40%.

Vax-a-Million is open to permanent Ohio residents who have received either the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine or their first part of the two-dose Pfizer or Moderna vaccination.

DeWines proposal inspired similar vaccine-incentive lotteries in Colorado, Maryland, New York state and Oregon.

In Colorado, Democratic Gov. Jared Polis says the state will have a weekly lottery for five residents to win $1 million Tuesday to incentive COVID-19 vaccinations. Colorado is setting aside $5 million of federal coronavirus relief funds that would have gone toward vaccine advertising for five residents to win $1 million each.

___

This story has been corrected to show that the winners were drawn from more than 2.7 million entrants, not 1.5 million.

___

Follow APs coverage of the pandemic at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak.
Rep. James White, R-Hillister, has been reappointed to the Texas Crime Victims Institute Advisory Council.

White will serve for a term set to expire Jan. 31, 2023.

The council is charged with conducting an in-depth analysis of the impact of crime on victims, close relatives of deceased victims, guardians of victims and society. White is the state representative of District 19 and chair of the Texas House Committee on Homeland Security and Public Safety. Previously, he served as a high school teacher in Woodville.

He is currently an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion and the Texas Farm Bureau. White earned a bachelor of arts degree in political science from Prairie View A&M University and a doctorate in political science from the University of Houston. He received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Army, where he served as a commissioned infantry officer.

Lamar Institute of Technology was ranked No. 15 nationally for the most affordable technical and trade schools of 2021, announced by College Consensus.

LIT is one of two Southeast Texas colleges named to the top 50 list. The other school is San Jacinto College (No. 23) in Pasadena.

LIT President Dr. Lonnie L. Howard said this honor validates the institutes importance and value, not only to incoming students but also within the community.

Christus Southeast Texas Health System recently announced new appointments and retirements in its administration.

Britni Hidalgo, RN and MSN, has been appointed as clinical director of labor and delivery at St. Elizabeth Hospital after previously serving as a PRN associate in the labor and delivery unit since May 2019.

Hidalgo earned her master of science in nursing administration from Lamar University last May, and had previous experience as the maternal program manager at the Medical Center of SETX.

Carmen Zoe Rosa joined the health system as the new laboratory manager on May 24.

She previously served as a laboratory manger for AdventHealth in Orlando, Florida and has 14 years of lab management experience after overseeing multiple teams across 11 hospitals.

Keith Irons is now the regional director of environmental care and safety, serving both the Christus Southeast Texas Health System and Christus Ochsner Southwestern Louisiana based in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

Irons is a 34-year retired veteran from the U.S. Army, having finished his service at Fort Polk, Louisiana, as the senior safety officer for combat hospitals.

Santosh Kalathra has been appointed as the pharmacy director of Christus Southeast Texas Health System after serving as a manager and supervisor in its pharmacy since 2012.

Kalathra is taking over this role from previous director, Tommy Welch, who recently retired after 26 years of service.

Shelly Cooper has retired from her position as respiratory director for CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Health System.

Cooper delayed her retirement for several months to help lead her team during the pandemic before ending a 35 year career with the system.

Christus Southeast Texas Health System also celebrated the retirement of Dr. Robert Birdwell, an acclaimed oncologist who served the region for 42 years.

In the early years of his career, Birdwell helped in the development and fundraising for the Mamie McFaddin Ward Cancer Center, which is now the home of Texas Oncology. He also served in various leadership roles including chairperson of the Cancer Committee and co-director of the Breast Cancer Navigation Program.

If your business or organization has new hirings, promotions, awards or other good news to share, email us at localnews@beaumontenterprise.com.

jacob.dick@beaumontenterprise.com

twitter.com/jd_journalism
Until the city is willing to take some of the burden, or were able to get to the point where the number of unvaccinated people is negligible, its not worth it to me as a business owner to take that risk, Friedland said.
UNITED NATIONS (AP)  It was a big day for a half dozen ambassadors on the U.N. Security Council: They set foot in the chamber for a meeting for the first time.

The ambassadors from the five countries elected to the council for two-year terms starting Jan. 1 from India, Ireland, Kenya, Mexico and Norway got to sit in their chairs at the horseshoe-shaped council table for the first time Tuesday. So did the United Kingdoms new ambassador.

The last time the 15 members of the U.N.s most powerful body met in person in the chamber was on Dec. 7, 2020, almost six months ago. It was in the midst of the pandemic, before vaccines were available, and not all council members were happy there, even with plexiglass partitions separating their seats.

The 193-member General Assembly, which meets in a much larger chamber, has allowed initially one, and now two, representatives per country to sit there socially distanced, including during Septembers annual meeting of world leaders.

But despite intense lobbying for months, especially by Russias U.N. ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, not all Security Council have been rushing to return.

Chinese Ambassador Zhang Jun, however, told reporters when he took over the rotating council presidency this month that he hoped members would be able to meet in the chamber in person.

It finally happened Tuesday, for a meeting on Somalia.

Just before heading into the meeting, Irish Ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason said she was thrilled to attend her first meeting in the council chamber.

Russias Nebenzia started his remarks to the council saying that today, of course, is a very special day in the life of the council.

He thanked the Chinese presidency for making the meeting possible.

We have insisted for a long time on returning to the Security Council chamber, Nebenzia said. In our view we could have done this much earlier, and perhaps there was no need to leave at all. 

He expressed hope that future council presidents will follow Chinas example and that the number of meetings in this room will increase until the council finally moves fully from the virtual format in which we have been living for the past six months to an in-person format.

When it was Estonias turn to speak, Ambassador Sven Jurgenson also thanked China for getting members back to the chamber.

It does feel great, he said. And as president for the month of June, Im hopeful that except for high-level meetings we will be able to move back all the meetings to the council chamber.

After the meeting, British Ambassador Barbara Woodward told reporters: Its great to be in the council in person.

It makes ... for a very different dynamic about the discussions, she said. Its a good feeling, and also, I think, a sense of place, which reminds us all of the importance of the work we do in terms of promoting global peace and security.

The assumption is that vaccination programs have rolled out now far enough for us to be as sure as we can be about safety, but were all very mindful that at any point there could be a new variant that changes the dynamic. But for now, I think we are delighted to be back, Woodward said.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP)  U.S. wildlife managers on Wednesday proposed federal protections for the lesser prairie chicken, saying its habitat across five states is in danger of becoming more fragmented and the effects of climate change and drought are expected to take a further toll on the species in the future.

Once listed as a threatened species, the chickens habitat spans parts of New Mexico, Colorado, Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas -- including a portion of the oil-rich Permian Basin.

Environmentalists have been pushing to reinstate federal protections for years. They consider the species severely threatened, citing lost and fragmented habitat as the result of oil and gas development, livestock grazing, farming and the building of roads and power lines.

Federal officials are proposing to list the southern population in eastern New Mexico and the southern reaches of the Texas Panhandle as endangered and those birds in the northern part of the species' range as threatened.

The public will have 60 days to comment on the proposal. Two virtual public meetings will be held in July. It could be a year before federal officials make a final determination.

Once thought to number in the millions, federal officials said the five-year average population across the entire range hovers around 27,000 individual birds.

Landowners and the oil and gas industry say they have had success with voluntary conservation programs aimed at protecting habitat and boosting the bird's numbers. The Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, which oversees the conservation effort, reported last fall that the population grew to an estimated 34,400  up from a low of about 15,400 in 2013.

A group of U.S. senators sent a letter last week to federal officials urging them not to list the bird, saying a designation under the Endangered Species Act would undermine the ongoing conservation work in the five states.

Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma and his fellow Republican lawmakers pointed out that more than 9,375 square miles (24,280 square kilometers) are covered by conservation agreements and industry participants have contributed more than $64 million in enrollment and mitigation fees that have helped to boost the bird's population.

U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall of Kansas suggested that the proposed listing favors government overreach and heavy-handed regulation over cooperation with landowners.

"Todays announcement will hurt our states economy, hinder our oil and gas independence, increase utility costs, and prevent the development of renewable energy in prime western Kansas locations, he said.

If the agency decides to list the species, officials said landowners and oil companies already participating in the conservation program wouldnt be affected because they already are taking steps to protect habitat. However, a listing would prevent any activities that result in the loss or degradation of existing habitat.

Energy companies and ranchers have concerns, but environmentalists applauded Wednesday's announcement, saying a listing is overdue.

The species' regulatory history dates back to an initial petition for protection in 1995.

The Fish and Wildlife Service in 2014 classified the bird as a threatened species, but the agency was forced to remove it from the list two years later following court rulings that determined the agency failed to properly consider the voluntary conservation efforts.

The year the bird was listed, Kansas enacted a law saying that state had the sole power to regulate the lesser prairie chicken  along with the larger, darker and more abundant greater prairie chicken  and their habitats within Kansas. It authorized the attorney general or county prosecutors to sue over federal attempts to impose conservation measures.

While federal officials acknowledged that there's always a chance for more litigation, agency biologist Clay Nichols said consideration was given to the conservation program this time around by assessing the benefits of ongoing projects and what future benefits they might have.

The current threats acting on the landscape are expected to either continue at the same levels or increase in severity in the foreseeable future, he said. Habitat loss is projected to outpace conservation efforts to restore habitat.

Nichols also pointed to drought, noting that the population in the southern range dropped to as few as 1,000 birds in 2015 because of severe dry conditions and that drought across the region has persisted, leaving the population in a precarious situation.
Lunch at the Lake is returning to Beaumont this summer as the citys event planners welcome back visitors and residents to downtown.

Every Tuesday in June, local food trucks and pop-up restaurants will be serving lunch from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Beaumonts Event Centre by the lake.

Beaumont Events announced the first confirmed vendor will be The Bread Bus, known for its boudin grilled cheese, Texas cheese-steak sliders and boudin quesadillas.

The featured food truck lineup and other event details will be updated at the Beaumont Events website and Facebook page.

Dunkins Southeast Texas stores are participating in Iced Coffee Day, which will benefit its foundation to end childhood hunger and medical-care insecurity.

On Wednesday, all iced coffees at participating Dunkins will be $0.50, with proceeds going toward the Dunkin Joy in Childhood Foundation.

Since 2006, the Dunkin Joy in Childhood Foundation has granted more than $30 million and will grant $7 million this year. Within the past year, the foundation has supported local organizations like Southeast Texas Food Bank.

Kelly Disaster Services, the company that purchased the former Jasper Lions Club rodeo grounds, is hosting a showcase at their new facility on Thursday.

The Missouri-based company is a subsidiary of Kelly & Company, a manufacturer and distributor of portable structures used in emergency events or at prisons.

The company purchased the 11-acre-plus property last November with plans to use it as a storage and staging site for what the company calls portable cities used to house utility and emergency workers responding to disasters.

It will host its showcase at the site starting at 10 a.m. with local leaders and community members.

jacob.dick@beaumontenterprise.com

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The smaller counties in Texas sometimes get overlooked when it comes to state or federal aid, so it was encouraging to see the Texas Land Office step up with significant flood control aid for Jasper County ($29 million) and Orange County ($19 million). That kind of money will go far in those counties, doing a lot to give them greater protection from inland rain or coastal storms.

The cities of Jasper and Kirbyville will be the beneficiaries of the state aid designed to improve roads and drainage infrastructure. Both cities have low-lying areas that have received damage in 2015, 2016 and in 2017 with Hurricane Harvey. If this aid helps break that cycle, it will be money well-spent.

The $19.5 million for Orange County will be used for flood mitigation projects and improved drainage infrastructure in West Orange and Vidor as well as some unincorporated areas. Just like Jasper County, these areas have suffered flood damage in 2015, 2016, 2017 with Hurricane Harvey.

A pattern like that shows a clear need that must be addressed, and this aid takes a comprehensive approach.

West Orange will see improvements at more than 40 sites throughout the city. The work includes reshaping nearly 17,000 feet of street ditches and replacing culverts along a similar distance.

In Vidor, the money will be used in part to construct three detention facilities at Tram Road, Conn Park and Orange Street for a total capacity of 391,700 cubic yards. Another key project is installing storm sewer lines at Orange Street, Lyndale Street, Heritage Drive, and Lamar Street, for a total of 10,300 linear feet.

Thats the kind of real-world help that can help keep more homes and businesses dry when the waters start backing up. And since water in Southeast Texas flows freely from one place to another, any improvement in one jurisdiction can help its neighbors channel water in the right direction when it really matters.

Its not enough to just protect the people in one city or county. If their excess water is simply dumped on a neighbor downstream, we are collectively falling short. The larger goal is to move that water into larger bodies like the Neches or Sabine River and get it flowing southward into the Gulf of Mexico as safely as possible.

It may be possible to overspend on drainage in Southeast Texas, but if it is were not anywhere near that point. Every year, cities and counties in the region must try to do a little more, always learning from past problems and trying to keep those areas dry the next time.

Any opportunity for state or federal aid like this must be pursued. Eventually, this year or in a future year, we will be tested again. We cant prevent that, but we can be as prepared as possible. State aid like this helps that effort, and Southeast Texans appreciate it.
A new report by an international NGO alleges that Dhaka has falsely promised Bangladeshi citizenship to Rohingya refugees who move to Bhashan Char, a remote and flood-prone island in the Bay of Bengal, a claim that the government on Thursday rejected as untrue.

Bangladesh is focused on repatriating Rohingya to neighboring Myanmar, said Delwar Hossain, director general of the Myanmar wing at the foreign ministry, while he dismissed the report by Refugees International as containing false allegations.

In recent weeks, Refugees International has received credible reports that camp officials have falsely promised payments and Bangladeshi citizenship to the Rohingya who relocate to the island, the U.S.-based NGO said in the report it released on Thursday.

Other refugees report volunteering to be relocated only after being offered amnesty from pending criminal charges.

Hossain said only Rohingya who want to move voluntarily are transferred to Bhashan Char.

This is totally a lie that we have promised the Rohingya people Bangladeshi citizenship for their relocation to Bhashan Char. Why would we offer the Myanmar people Bangladeshi citizenship? Hossain said to BenarNews.

Bangladesh is the most densely populated country in the world. We do not have a shortage of population. The governments principal focus is the early return of the Rohingya to their homeland in Myanmar.

Hossain also denied that Bangladesh offers to waive criminal charges against Rohingya who have them, in exchange for moving offshore.

There is no link between relocation to Bhashan Char and exemption of the criminal charges of the Rohingya. Persons committing criminal charges must face trial no matter where they stay or live. This is also a false claim, Hossain said.

According to him, the 18,000 or so refugees who relocated to the island did so voluntarily.

The program to transfer refugees to Bhashan Char is aimed mainly at decongesting the overcrowded camps in Ukhia and Teknaf, Hossain said, referring to the refugee camps in southeastern Bangladeshs Coxs Bazar, where around 1 million Rohingya are sheltering.

BenarNews spoke to some Rohingya who had moved to Bhashan Char. They denied that Bangladesh had promised them citizenship or offered to waive any criminal charges, in exchange for moving to the island.

The Rohingya who moved were, however, told they would get a monthly allowance if they relocated to Bhashan Char, said Nurul Islam, a Rohingya leader on the island.

Each of the Rohingya family was given Tk 5,000 [U.S. $59] when we relocated. But we are not getting that promised money anymore, Islam told BenarNews.

However, Daniel P. Sullivan, who authored the Refugees International report, said he had heard about Bangladeshs purported incentives for the Rohingya to move to Bhashan Char from credible contacts in the South Asian nation.

For reasons of safety and confidentiality, I am unable to identify the sources of these reports, but can say that they come from trusted contacts who have heard directly from refugees, Sullivan told BenarNews.

I can also say that in previous visits to the camps in 2019, I had heard similar reports directly from Rohingya refugees saying that they had been offered money or Bangladeshi citizenship if they agreed to move to Bhashan Char.

Bhashan Char least-worst option

In general, Rohingya who decide to move to the island are choosing between a bad and worse option, according to the report by Refugees International, titled Fading Humanitarianism: The Dangerous Trajectory of the Rohingya Refugee Response in Bangladesh.

More generally, decisions to relocate seem to be based on calculations of a least-worst option compared to conditions and insecurity in the camps, the 15-page report said.

According to the NGO, extortion, threats, kidnappings and killings have risen in the crowded mainland camps.

The networks behind these activities remain murky, but include a mix of gangs, drug traffickers, and those claiming links to the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), the report said, referring to an organization that Myanmar has declared a terrorist group.

A humanitarian worker described the growing influence of these illicit groups as the massive unspoken thing. One refugee told Refugees International that the influence of criminal groups, especially at night, is so great that, to be honest, there are two governments [in the camps].

Bangladesh has, in response, put up barbed-wire fencing around the main camp for security purposes, the NGO noted. This fence endangered Rohingya when a huge fire broke out on one of the camps in March, according to Refugees International and other rights groups.

Back in March, Bangladesh had denied that the fence was the reason at least 11 people perished in the fire. High wind speeds made it difficult to douse the fire quickly, an official had said.

We have built a barbed-wire fence for ensuring physical safety of the Rohingya. The criminals used to infiltrate the camps and abduct people, Hossain said.

Meanwhile, the United Nations has yet to assess the island for livability, Refugees International noted.

Without such an assessment, the Rohingya lack enough information to agree to move, Sullivan, the reports author, said.

[T]here are too many unanswered questions about the safety and feasibility of hosting refugees on the island to provide for informed consent, he told BenarNews.

These questions include what services refugees on the island could access and how (including a current lack of protection services and medical services beyond primary care) and whether refugees would have the freedom of movement back to the main camps.

According to Hossain, after a U.N. refugee agency delegation visited the island in March, officials have had several meetings with officials from the UNHCR office in Dhaka on starting work to assess Bhashan Char.

Last week, we had a meeting with U.N. officials regarding the assessment. I hope the U.N. will start operating in Bhashan Char after they complete the assessment, he said.

UNHCR did not immediately respond to a BenarNews request for comment on the Refugees International report.

The NGO said that the conditions in Rohingya camps declined in the past year even as prospects for repatriation grew bleaker after the Feb. 1 coup in Myanmar.

Yet, Bangladesh has continued to say that repatriation of the Rohingya is the ultimate goal, Refugees International said.

Bangladeshi authorities have insisted on the repatriation of Rohingya to Myanmar as the only solution to the refugee crisis and prevented medium- to long-term planning around the humanitarian response, the NGO noted in its report.

[T]he government of Bangladesh has refused to recognize Rohingya as refugees and to grant them access to education, livelihoods, and the legal system.
The labor shortage is hitting the nations tourist destinations just as they try to rebound from a year lost to the pandemic, where periodic surges in cases and lockdowns had Americans sticking close to home. Now, with more than half of adults vaccinated, Americans are ready to venture out with the traditional start of summer travel.
Supporters of Islamic cleric Rizieq Shihab disperse after his sentencing hearing at the courthouse in East Jakarta, May 27, 2021.

An Indonesian court convicted and sentenced a hardline Islamic preacher and five of his associates to eight months in prison Thursday on charges of violating COVID-19 restrictions by organizing Jakarta area events that drew thousands of people last year.

The East Jakarta District Court found Muhammad Rizieq Shihab, founder of the banned but influential Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) vigilante group, and his co-defendants guilty of violating health-quarantine orders through the mass events, which included his daughters wedding and a birthday celebration for Prophet Muhammad.

We declare defendant Mohammad Rizieq Shihab guilty beyond reasonable doubt of the crime of violating the health quarantine law, chief judge Suparman Nyompa ruled.

The three-judge panel delivered the verdict amid fortified security around the courthouse. More than 2,000 police officers were on guard outside, and barbed wire was installed for the occasion.

Police arrested 11 of Rizieqs supporters after they forced their way into the court room despite the trial being closed to the public, officials said.

Rizieq was also ordered to pay a fine of 20 million rupiah (U.S. $1,400) for a separate gathering that attracted thousands of people near Jakarta in November.

The judge said Rizieq was given a more lenient sentence than the prosecutor demanded because he was forthcoming, had a family to support and was a respected religious figure.

Suparman also acknowledged the perception of unfair treatment because similar large gatherings had taken place without charges being brought against violators.

Rizieq is expected to walk free in August because the sentence handed to him and the five others was retroactive, his defense lawyer said. Riziek and the others were arrested and jailed last December.

Yanuar Aziz, the clerics attorney, said he was happy with the outcome of the trial, which began in March.

We are satisfied because the incitement charge against Habib Rizieq was not proven, Aziz told BenarNews.

In November, thousands of Rizieqs supporters thronged Soekarno-Hatta International Airport outside Jakarta to welcome the preacher back to Indonesia after he had spent three years in Saudi Arabia.

That same week, Rizieq held at least three religious gatherings attended by thousands of people, including the wedding of his daughter at his central Jakarta home, which coincided with celebrations of the Prophet Muhammads birthday.

These events drew widespread criticism and calls for authorities to take action against the violations of social distancing rules.

Rizieq paid a fine of 50 million rupiah (U.S. $3,469) to Jakarta authorities for flouting those rules, apologized publicly and promised to cancel a planned tour of the country.

He was arrested after turning himself in for questioning in connection with the gatherings.

Indonesia has the largest COVID-19 caseload in Southeast Asia, with nearly 1.8 million confirmed cases and 50,000 deaths.

In his defense plea in March, Rizieq slammed discrimination in enforcement of quarantine laws.

Rizieq said police did not take action against many large gatherings that flouted COVID-19 protocols. As an example, he cited crowds who got close to President Joko Jokowi Widodo when he visited East Nusa Tenggara province in February.

Rizieq founded FPI in 1998, and since then, he and the groups members have had several brushes with the law.

On Dec. 7, Indonesian police officers claimed self-defense after they shot and killed six of Rizieqs supporters who were traveling in a convoy with him.

One month later, the National Commission on Human Rights said its investigation found police had acted unlawfully in the killings of at least four of those followers.

FPI, for its part, claimed the six were victims of extrajudicial killings.

The Indonesian government officially banned the FPI in December 2020 after it accused the group of violating the law and disrupting peace and security. In addition, 35 members and former members had been convicted on terrorism charges.

The decision to ban the organization was taken jointly by Indonesias home, law and communications ministers, the police and counter terrorism heads, and the attorney general.
Students hold a sign depicting an epitaph symbolising the death of Indonesias Corruption Eradication Commission during a rally in front of the parliament building in Jakarta demanding that lawmakers revoke a revised anti-corruption law, Oct. 1, 2019.

Fifty-one employees with Indonesias anti-corruption commission will be fired after flunking a mandatory national loyalty test, the civil service announced, as critics accused the government of getting rid of capable graft busters and undermining the agencys independence.

The decision to dismiss these Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) staffers followed weeks of controversy that swirled around the so-called National Outlook Test. They were required to pass it as their agency transitions to being run by the civil service, which will take over the KPK later this year, officials said.

The 51 were among 75 KPK employees who failed the test earlier this month, but the 51 failed on particular questions which they had to answer correctly and for which they would have no chance to retake the test, according to Bima Haria Wibisana, the head of the National Civil Service Agency (BKN).

So from 75, 51 people received negative marks on their views on the state ideology Pancasila, the national constitution, the unitary state of Indonesia and the government, he said Tuesday in announcing the imminent dismissals of the 51.

These indicators are non-negotiable, so accommodations cannot be made, he said.

KPK Deputy Chairman Alexander Marwata said that the 51 would remain employed until Nov. 1, while the 24 others would receive further guidance.

KPK employees are required to sit for the exam as part of their switch as employees of the formerly independent agency to the civil service, as mandated under amendments to a law governing the KPK, officials said.

The amendments were passed in 2019 and sparked street protests, where opponents accused the government of using the law to weaken the agency that fights corruption in a country notorious for graft.

The test that KPK employees took was different from the standard entry test required of applicants to the civil service because the KPK staffers were more senior-level government employees, officials said.

The names of the 51 staffers facing dismissal were not released and it was not clear if the list included senior investigator Novel Baswedan, who was among the 75 who failed the test despite his reputation as a qualified KPK investigator with integrity.

On Wednesday, Baswedan said the firings were a nail in the coffin for the commissions independence and that the test was being used as a pretext to get rid of people committed to fighting corruption.

The national outlook test is a tool to remove certain KPK employees who have been targeted previously, Baswedan said in a statement.

This was expected, and it looks more and more to be by design. This is the final stage of the undermining of the KPK, he said.

Baswedan was permanently blinded in his left eye when acid was thrown in his face during an attack in 2017. Last year, a Jakarta court convicted and sentenced two low-ranking police to two years and 18 months in prison, respectively, following a trial which the victim himself and rights groups denounced as farcical.

The prosecution had argued that the motive for the attack was personal and not linked to Baswedans work for the KPK.

Baswedan and six other investigators who failed the test have handled major corruption cases involving senior politicians, former ministers and police generals, including an ongoing probe involving two former members of President Joko Jokowi Widodos cabinet.

Baswedan was the lead investigator in a corruption scandal surrounding a national electronic identity card project, which cost the state 2.3 trillion rupiah (U.S. $163 million).

The scandal led to the political downfall of then-parliament Speaker Setya Novanto, who lost the position before being sentenced to 15 years for his role in taking kickbacks.

Presidential Chief of Staff Moeldoko on Wednesday urged the public to put the controversy over the test to rest.

Wed better get rid of negative energies and preconceived notions about the KPK, Moeldoko said in an online press statement.

He said President Jokowi supported the test to measure KPK employees commitment to eradicating corruption.

The 2019 law changes the status of the KPK from an independent body into one under the executive branch of the government.

The transfer of status of KPK employees as civil servants reinforces the governments commitment to keep the KPK at the forefront of corruption eradication efforts in Indonesia, Moeldoko said.

Earlier this month, the Constitutional Court rejected a petition filed by former KPK commissioners to overturn the amended law.

Last week, Jokowi waded into the controversy, saying that failure to pass the test should not be the basis for dismissing the 75 employees.

It is necessary to immediately take corrective steps at the individual and organizational level, Jokowi had said.

A researcher at Indonesia Corruption Watch (ICW) accused KPK Chairman Firli Bahuri, a police general, of ignoring Jokowis call.

The president as the leader of the civil service and the executive in charge of the KPK under the law should reprimand the KPKs leadership because I think this has gone too far, Kurnia Ramadhana told an online discussion on Wednesday.

It seems that the president has been publicly humiliated, he said.

ICW also urged the KPKs supervisory board to evaluate Firlis leadership which, Kurnia said, lacked integrity and professionalism.

Since it was established in 2002, the KPK has secured the convictions of former ministers, governors, central bankers, legislators, as well as business tycoons, making it one of the most respected and feared institutions in Southeast Asias largest country.
Indonesian troops carry the caskets of two soldiers killed in an attack blamed on Papuan rebels, at the Goliat Dekai Airport in Yahukimo regency, May 19, 2021.

The capital of Papua province and surrounding areas have been without internet for a month, complicating the medias efforts to report on the armed conflict in Indonesia's easternmost region that has escalated sharply during the same period, press freedom advocates say.

The blackout  due to the accidental cutting of a seabed cable, according to the government  began April 30, days after separatist insurgents killed an army general and President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo ordered security forces to step up efforts to eradicate the armed groups, in response.

As part of the crackdown, the government declared the separatist rebels a terrorist group, raising alarm among rights activists who said the classification could lead to human rights abuses and endanger civil society.

Damar Juniarto, executive director of the Southeast Asian Freedom of Expression Network (SAFEnet), urged the government and the state-owned internet service provider Telekomunikasi Indonesia (Telkom) to be transparent about the blackout that affected 500,000 people, including media personnel.

The obstruction of the journalists work has a direct impact on the fulfillment of information to the public. They also have difficulty accessing and sending news to the editorial staff, Damar told BenarNews.

Some journalists have been forced to send news to editors using short messages (SMS). Even then, the transmission is not smooth. Journalists cannot verify information quickly.

Violence related to the separatist insurgency in Papua mostly takes place in remote mountainous regions of the province, but Jayapura and surrounding regencies  home to half a million people  are the hub of media, commerce, local government and connectivity to the rest of the province.

Telekomunikasi Indonesia said internet service would be restored in June, and blamed the complexity of the repairs and bureaucratic red tape for the delay in fixing the broken cable.

For the repair of the broken cable, a special ship and a team of experts have been dispatched from Makassar to Jayapura on May 19, Pujo told BenarNews.

Specialized equipment was necessary because the cables are at a depth of about 4,000 meters (13,100 feet), he said. Various permits also had to be processed, including an Underwater Work Order (SPKBA) issued by the Ministry of Transportation, along with security clearances before the ship could set sail.

As the internet blackout nears one month, residents voiced their frustrations.

For [those of] us who make a living selling things online, no internet means no business, Muhammad Fadli, 33, a Sarmi regency resident who sells cosmetics and clothing, told BenarNews.

As it is, peoples daily activities have been upended during the COVID-19 pandemic, said Editha Nunun Aryani, 43, a Jayapura resident.

Its difficult because children are having exams and this prevents them from accessing school assignments online, she told BenarNews.

Now they are desperate for internet access and some have been forced to fly to Timika, Merauke, and Biak for exams, she said, referring to some areas in Indonesian Western New Guinea that have internet access.

Security chiefs visit

Meanwhile, military commander Air Marshal Hadi Tjahjanto and national police chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo visited Papua on Wednesday their second trip to the region this month that, they said, was intended to boost the troops morale.

The government is committed to developing Papua, including its infrastructure. It is true that what the government has done has not been fully felt by all Papuan people, Sigit said in a statement.

In the latest clash between security forces and separatist groups, two soldiers were stabbed and killed by suspected rebels in Yahukimo regency on May 18, military spokesman Col. Gusti Nyoman Suriastawa said.

The Free Papua Movement (OPM) rebels claimed responsibility for the killings, saying they retaliated for recent attacks by security forces on homes in Puncak regency.

In addition, the National Liberation Army of West Papua (TPNPB), the armed wing of the OPM, accused government forces of attacking civilians in the town of Ilaga.

We observe that all Indonesian colonial military units  are still carrying out operations in villages, TPNPB spokesman Sebby Sambom said in a statement.

Is their true intention to kill civilians?

On Monday, the military sent 400 personnel from an infantry battalion in West Java to Papua for a nine-month tour of duty to provide security in vulnerable areas, regional military chief Brig. Gen. Achmad Fauzi said.

Fauzi said they would replace a similar number of troops who had completed their tour.

We will carry out a humanitarian work for the Papuan people, such as renovating churches there. Many people are affected and we provide trauma-healing programs, Fauzi said.

Military spokesman Col. Djawara Whimbo said the government had no plans to send additional troops to Papua.

There has been no order for additional personnel. Soldiers are there to help the police, Whimbo told BenarNews, adding that there were 7,000 military personnel in Papua.

The mainly Melanesian Papua region, which comprises Papua and West Papua provinces, was incorporated into Indonesia in 1969 after a U.N.-administered ballot called a sham by many Papuans and rights groups.

But Mohammad Mahfud MD, the coordinating minister for political, legal and security affairs, said 92 percent of Papuans supported Jakartas rule and the armed faction accounted for a small fraction of those who are pro-independence.

Armed criminal groups are the smallest and they are being dealt with by law enforcement based on Law Number 5 on terrorism, he told a group of academics on Thursday.
Philippine troops secure a highway after Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters temporarily occupied the public market in Datu Paglas, a town in southern Maguindanao province, May 8, 2021.

A group of mayors in an autonomous Muslim region in the southern Philippines agreed to boost cooperation to fend off militants allied with the Islamic State group after President Rodrigo Duterte warned of an all-out war against the extremists.

At a security summit earlier this week, the mayors signaled that they would help the military and law enforcement agencies monitor and combat militants from the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), according to Naguib Sinarimbo, a spokesman for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Marop Ampatuan, the mayor of Shariff Aguak town in Maguindanao province, said he and the other leaders would help the government resolve the problem of terrorism by the BIFF soon.

Our village officials will hold meetings with their people to explain why it is wrong to join these groups, Ampatuan told BenarNews on Thursday.

Officials would fan out to gather intelligence and turn it over to the authorities, while also launching a mass public information campaign against IS-linked groups, he said.

Most of the time, militants pass through our towns remote villages and we are asking the help of civilians in monitoring their movement. It would help us a lot, Ampatuan said.

The mayors, who held their closed-door security summit on Monday but released details later in the week, plan to ask leaders in the mainly Muslim region to counsel youths about the dangers of drifting into militancy, Ampatuan said.

A majority of the mayors supported the measure to increase cooperation, Sinarimbo told BenarNews on Wednesday, adding that other majority-Muslim provinces in the south, such as Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi would hold their own security summits.

Sinarimbo said the BIFF and other militant groups  the local chapter of Islamic State (IS), which is known here as Dawlah Islamiyah, and Abu Sayyaf  have made a declaration that they will not go for negotiation or dialogue.

We do not proceed from negotiations where the other parties have rejected negotiations as an option, he said.

Meanwhile on Thursday, President Rodrigo Duterte signed a law dividing Maguindanao province into Maguindanao del Norte and Maguindanao del Sur, the state-run Philippine News Agency reported. Both new provinces remain within the BARMM territory.

About two weeks ago, Duterte visited a military camp near Cotabato and warned of a possible all-out offensive against the BIFF if locals failed to control the militants.

The monkey wrench in the whole situation now is the BIFF and they continue to inflict not just small violence, Duterte had said. They continue to burn, ambush and detonate bombs, really full-blown terrorism.

The BIFFs few hundred Muslim fighters split from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, an armed separatist group, when MILF signed a peace deal with the central government in 2014. As part of the deal, the MILF controls the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.

The BIFF is divided into several factions, including one which pledged allegiance to IS. Lately, fighters from the group have been involved in deadly clashes with government forces, officials said.

Last week, a BIFF leader, Abdulatip Pendaliday (alias Commander Grasscutter), was killed during a clash in Datu Paglas town, also in Maguindanao.

Pendaliday was believed to be involved in setting off roadside bombs targeting military convoys, according to Brig. Gen. Roy Galido, commander of the Armys 601st Infantry Brigade.

Earlier this month, troops drove out BIFF militants who took over the market in Datu Paglas.

In 2017, the BIFF supported but did not send fighters to participate in the five-month siege of the southern Philippine city of Marawi by militants linked to IS.

Since then, BIFF members have carried out a series of deadly bombings in the Mindanao region.

On May 14, MILF leader Ahod Balawag Ebrahim, who is the chief minister of the BARMM, told lawmakers that he and other leaders needed more time to control militants in the region.

Ebrahim, who is popularly known as Murad Ebrahim, had been asking the central government to postpone regional elections set for May 2022 and allow BARMM leaders to retain power until 2025. Under current law, the transitional government is supposed to relinquish power next May.

Murad said the extension would allow BARMM leaders to establish reforms and stamp out the remaining militant groups. The leaders were appointed in 2019 by the central government in Manila and not by a vote.
Currently, donors can claim 75% of their donation as a tax credit, meaning that if they contribute $10,000 to an SGO, they can subtract $7,500 from the amount that they would normally owe in state income taxes. The shortcut means that the state doesnt technically give out the money. But that $7,500 would have gone into the states general revenue fund if it hadnt ended up at one of the schools on the approved list, many of which are run by religious organizations.
The best outcome, which we have communicated throughout, is that Ms. Mahoney secure, as was discussed, a full-time permanent position in a school that needs and has in their budget a clerk role that is open, in a building, of course, that is accessible to her and that shes able to travel to, Lyons said. We did notify her yesterday that we would be extending the Byrne position for another year if she is unable to find that kind of permanent placement, which we are supporting her in doing in an accessible workplace and will continue to support her.
Amy Cooper, who came to be known across social media as "Central Park Karen" after she called 911 and lied about being threatened by a Black bird watcher in Central Park last year, is suing her former employer Franklin Templeton for firing her after the incident.

According to Bloomberg, Cooper claims the May 25, 2020 incident was spurred on by her fear of the birder, Christian Cooper, who she says has a history of aggressively confronting people for not leashing their dogs. This, Amy Cooper claims, caused her to reasonably fear for the safety of herself and her pet.

RELATED: Charges Dropped In Central Park Karen Case Against White Woman Who Falsely Accused Black Man Of Mortal Threat

A lawsuit filed in Manhattan federal court by Amy Cooper claims she was characterized as racist by Franklin Templeton and that they publicized the incident on Twitter and fired her after falsely claiming the company conducted an investigation.

In an email to Bloomberg, Franklin Templeton called the lawsuit baseless and said they would fight it.

Amy Cooper claims in the suit the investment company only interviewed her in the immediate aftermath while she was still palpably distraught and fearful of her safety, and did not interview Christian Cooper or anyone else he may have come in contact with in the park.

The publicity, Cooper claims, spurred countless phone calls and text messages from people who sought to threaten and harass her. As a result, she says shes suffered extreme emotional distress and her personal and professional life has been destroyed.

Amy Cooper is seeking back pay, a lost bonus, loss of unvested funds and other benefits, reinstatement or front pay, compensatory damages for emotional distress, punitive damages and attorneys fees and costs.
Kristen Clarke is making history as she was confirmed on Tuesday (May 25) by the Senate to lead the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division, making her the first woman of color to formally serve in the position.

A longtime civil rights lawyer, Clarke earned the appointment after Democrats and Republicans fought over her record during confirmation. Contention largely stemmed from how she would seek to enforce civil rights laws and investigate police forces.

According to Yahoo News, Clarkes confirmation vote was largely along party lines, approving her nomination by a 51-48 vote. Senator Susan Collins of Maine was the only Republican to join all Democrats and Independents in voting to confirm the 46-year-old.

RELATED: 3 Main Things To Know About the Justice Departments Investigation of the Minneapolis Police Department

The news of Clarke being confirmed has Democrats excited. They say Clarke's two-decade career as a civil rights attorney made her uniquely qualified to lead a unit that former Atty. Gen. Eric H. Holder Jr. described as being the agency's "crown jewel."

Clarke will now be in charge of an office that has more than 350 attorneys and will play a key role in the Biden administration's efforts to enforce civil rights and voting rights laws and to investigate rogue police forces.

The vote came on the one-year anniversary of the death of George Floyd, a Black man who was killed by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, which sparked nationwide protests in the wake of the tragedy.
Five men between the ages of 17 and 28 have reportedly been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after British activist Sasha Johnson was left with life-threatening injuries following a shooting in London early Sunday (May 23).

According to the BBC, the 27-year-old, who is known as a leading voice in Black Lives Matter and other antiracist demonstrations in the UK is hospitalized in critical condition. Searches are also being carried out at two addresses in Londons Peckham district.

The shooting happened during a house party when a group of men are said to have entered the premises where it took place. Officers initially arrested a 17-year-old boy on Tuesday afternoon following a stop-and-search in South London. He was reportedly arrested on suspicion of weapons and drug possession.

RELATED: London Metropolitan Police Seeking Four Suspects In Sasha Johnson Shooting

As the investigation continued, police were led to another London addresswhere three men, ages 18, 19 and 28, were all arrested on suspicion of affray -- or fighting in a public place -- and drug possession. After a police chase, a fifth man, 25, was held later in the evening.

The Metropolitan Police said all five were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remain in custody.

Johnson is also known as a leader of the Taking the Initiative Party (TTIP), a Black British political movement. People who know her said she has received death threats although police have said they did not believe this was a targeted attack. London Metropolitan Police Commander Alison Heydari said detectives were not aware of any reports of threats made against her prior to this incident," according to the BBC.
What it really is is cultural Marxism, Rubio said. It is another way to tear apart capitalism and the American way of life. I dont think we should be teaching that. Heres what I think we should be teaching people at universities. I think we should be teaching them engineering. I think we should be teaching them biology. I think we should be teaching them science, engineering, math, other technological fields.
BOISE - The unofficial kick-off to the summer travel season is just around the corner, but with surging demand for fuel, rental cars, airfare, and hotel rooms, Memorial Day travelers should plan on paying more at the pump.

Today, the U.S. average price for regular is $3.04, which is the same as a week ago and 15 cents more than a month ago. Idahos average price is $3.24, which is a penny more than a week ago and 12 cents more than a month ago. Idaho currently ranks 8th in the country for most expensive fuel.

AAA predicts that 37 million Americans will travel this Memorial Day weekend, including 202,000 Idahoans. The 60 percent increase over 2020 is putting significant upward pressure on gas prices, and holiday travelers are expected to pay the most to fill up since 2014.

Heres a seven-year retrospective of U.S. and Idaho gas prices on Memorial Day:

Everything is going to be more expensive this year, as many people finally have the opportunity to re-connect with family members or visit a beloved travel destination. But we dont believe that higher prices will change anyones mind about taking a trip, says AAA Idaho spokesman Matthew Conde. People will simply make other adjustments to their budget in order to get some long-awaited rest and relaxation.

According to the AAA Leisure Travel Index, daily rental car rates have doubled compared to last Memorial Day at an average price of $134. A semiconductor shortage has impacted automobile production, and, in turn, rental car inventory and availability in some markets.

Average airfares are up 14 percent over last Memorial Day, and mid-range hotel room rates have increased between 29 and 34 percent, with average nightly rates of $140 for a AAA Two-Diamond property and $181 for a AAA Three-Diamond property.

If you decide to be spontaneous and take a last-minute vacation without making any reservations, you could be in for some serious disappointment, not just now but throughout the summer, Conde said. Please do your homework to pick out a destination or situation thats right for you, then make your travel arrangements as soon as possible.

In addition to state and national parks, AAA says Idahoans are likely to visit warm-weather destinations like Los Angeles, San Diego, Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Orlando over the holiday. Gas prices are likely to be more expensive near major tourist attractions like mountains, beaches, and parks.

Heres a current snapshot of Idaho gas prices as of Monday, May 25, 2021:
MOSCOW - Commercial air service nonstop between the Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport and Boise could return as soon as early August following a decision by the Idaho State Board of Education.

The board unanimously approved a University of Idaho request on Thursday to finalize an air service agreement with Alaska Airlines. The draft deal would require a subsidy from the UI to Alaska if the airline loses money on the service. The revenue guarantee from the UI is up to a half a million dollars annually for the first 3 years. UI President Scott Green told the board that its likely that the UI will have to pay Alaska some money but he doesnt believe that it will reach the maximum.

Previous Alaska flights between the Palouse and Boise ended over 10 year ago. President Green believes the lack of flights between Pullman-Moscow and Boise led to the loss of about 200 Treasure Valley UI students annually.

The UI is expected to announce a finalized deal next week. The proposed agreement calls for Alaska to have a daily flight between the Palouse and Boise 5 times a week starting August 8th.

Alaska Air used to fly between Lewiston and Boise before pulling out of the valley 3 years go.
OLYMPIA - The Washington State Patrol (WSP) has signed on to the 30x30 Pledge  a series of low- and no- cost actions policing agencies can take to improve the representation and experiences of women in law enforcement. These activities are helping policing agencies assess the current state of a department with regard to gender equity, identifying factors that may be driving any disparities, develop and implement strategies and solutions to eliminate barriers, and advance women in policing. These actions address recruitment, assessment, hiring, retention, promotion, and agency culture.

The ultimate goal of the 30x30 Initiative is to reach 30 percent of women in police recruit classes by 2030, and to ensure policing agencies are truly representative of the jurisdiction the agency serves. While 30x30 focuses on advancing women in policing, these principles are applicable to all demographic diversity, not just gender.

The pledge is the foundational effort of the 30x30 Initiative  a coalition of police leaders, researchers, and professional organizations who are joining to advance the representation and experiences of women in all ranks of policing across the United States. The 30x30 Initiative affiliates with the Policing Project at New York University School of Law and the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives.

We are honored to be among the first in the nation to take this pledge and make this commitment, said WSP Chief John R. Batiste. One of my esteemed predecessors was Chief Annette Sandberg, one of the first women to lead a statewide law enforcement agency. She was appointed by then Governor Mike Lowry in 1995. She served until 2001 and later was appointed the head of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration by President George W. Bush. Chief Batiste added, This agency and this state have proud histories of women in key positions of leadership and impact. However, as an agency, we are slightly behind the current national average in overall commissioned female representation and are doing all we can to attract, train and retain qualified women for the job. The 30X30 Pledge is something we heartily endorse as it will highlight our public accountability, make us a stronger agency, and help us better serve the public in these times of great challenge and change.

Currently, women make up 13% of all lieutenant and 15% of all captain positions, but only 10% of the WSPs overall commissioned personnel. (Over 54% of WSPs civil service employees are female.) Nationally, women make up 12 percent of sworn officers and 3 percent of police leadership. This underrepresentation of women in policing has significant public safety implications.

Dozens of law enforcement agencies across the nation - from major metro departments including the New York City Police Department, to mid-sized, rural, university and state policing agencies  have signed the 30x30 Pledge. The Pledge is based on social science research that greater representation of women on police forces leads to better policing outcomes for communities with less use of force and less use of excessive force as well as other benefits.

We are grateful to the Washington State Patrol for being one of the first in the nation to commit to being a part of this growing movement said Maureen McGough, co-founder of the 30x30 Initiative, Chief of Staff of the Policing Project at the New York University School of Law, and former policing expert at the U.S. Department of Justice. We believe strongly that advancing women in policing is critical to improving public safety outcomes. We look forward to having more agencies follow WSPs lead by signing the pledge and improving the representation and experiences of women in policing.

For more information, visit www.30x30initiative.org.
PULLMAN - Employees, students and visitors who provide proof of full vaccination will be allowed to forgo face masks and social distancing on all Washington State University locations, effective Thursday, May 26.

The new policy follows the latest guidance from Washington Governor Jay Inslee, the Department of Labor and Industries and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

People are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after receiving their last shot in a vaccine series. To find a nearby location where vaccines are available, visit the states Vaccine Locator website.

Employees will still have to declare their health status through the WSU Attestation website prior to visiting a WSU worksite or campus, though the policy will be re-evaluated in the weeks ahead.

Those who work in certain WSU departments or business units, such as childcare and health care services, must continue to wear facial coverings and distance, regardless of vaccination status.

Providing falsified information regarding vaccination status is grounds for disciplinary action, up to and including termination from employment.

Employees who decline to provide proof of vaccination will still be required to wear a face covering and maintain appropriate social distance from others at a WSU location. Those not wearing masks may still have to provide proof of vaccination prior to entering WSU facilities such as the Student Recreation Center, dining facilities and libraries.

There are several forms of valid proof:

A CDC vaccination card (which includes name of person vaccinated, type of vaccine provided, and date last dose administered)

A photo of a CDC vaccination card as a separate document or a photo of the attendees vaccine card stored on a phone or electronic device

Documentation of vaccination from a health care provider or state immunization information system record

A hard copy or electronically signed self-attestation from the employee

Students

In-classroom instructors as well as area leads are allowed to verify the vaccination status of unmasked students entering their area or facility. Only supervisors, area leads, in-classroom instructors, or their designees are responsible for oversight of WSU facilities and may verify vaccination status. Students not wearing a mask may also have to provide proof of vaccination prior to entering the Student Recreation Center, dining halls and other university facilities.

Students whose vaccination status is unverified will be required to wear a face covering and maintain social distancing.

Students who provide false or misleading information regarding their vaccination status will be referred for action under the standards of conduct for students. Anyone who is not an in-classroom faculty member or area lead who is concerned about someone not wearing a mask or social distancing is asked to contact a supervisor.

Contractors, vendors and visitors

Area leads or their designees are also permitted to verify the vaccination status of contractors, vendors or visitors entering a WSU facility.

Vendors, visitors and contractors must provide valid verification as listed above or don a face mask and maintain appropriate social distancing. Providing false information is grounds for removal from WSU. Only supervisors and area leads or their designees responsible for oversight of WSU facilities may verify vaccination status.

No WSU employee, including supervisors, are permitted to ask for reasons why a student, employee or visitor is or is not vaccinated.

More information on the universitys response to COVID-19 is available on its website.
Illinois is expected to receive more than $5 billion from the latest injection of federal dollars into the American Rescue Plans Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund. Ninety percent of that will go directly to local school districts, according to officials at the Illinois State of Board of Education, including roughly $2 billion to Chicago Public Schools. Thats on top of nearly $3 billion the states schools received in the two earlier rounds of COVID-19 relief.
The Manhattan DA has launched a criminal investigation into the Trump Organization. However, multiple media outlets spruced up the headline and created a false narrative that made it look like Donald Trump himself was being investigated.

Meanwhile, the crime in New York City is out of control and DA Cyrus Vance Jr. just turns a blind eye. But the Trump Organization he feels is worthy of a 6 month long investigation? What a waste of time!

Bill goes in depth on this more on the No Spin News  sign up here to watch and get Killing the Mob free.
In the first South African study to explore the crisis communication needs of employees specifically, University of Stellenbosch Business School (USB) MBA graduate Leana Kotze highlighted that, in an organisational crisis, "An employee-centred approach is good for employees, and for organisations too."

Practical guidelines

Focus group feedback

Consideration and useful, relevant instruction

The most important information that organisations should provide to employees is about the impact the crisis will have on their job security, salary, and related issues. If this information is incomplete or not yet available, the organisation should communicate openly as to the reasons, and assure employees the information will be provided as soon as it is available.





Internal crisis communication messages must be consistent, and the organisations actions must line-up with what has been communicated.





Managers should make use of surveys, questionnaires, feedback platforms and personal interaction to ask and listen to employees needs. This should include physical or virtual platforms where employees can air grievances and raise concerns within the organisation.





Employees should have options to engage anonymously with the organisation.





Showing care and consideration goes beyond asking and listening, and organisations should take concrete actions aimed at meeting employees needs, addressing their emotions and reactions to the crisis, and showing that they care.





Employees know that business must go on in the face of a crisis, but dont want to feel that the organisation is prioritising its own interests and performance over the needs of human beings. Communication that encourages work to go on is necessary, but must show sensitivity to the impact of the crisis on the ground.





While communication and visibility from the senior leadership is essential, the organisation should also deploy direct line managers and supervisors in the communication effort, as they are closest to and most credible to their teams and can play a key role in gauging sentiment, facilitating collective sensemaking, and giving feedback to the organisation on employees needs and concerns which can be used to refine ongoing communication.





Meetings within teams or departments are important to facilitate collective sensemaking, where employees can discuss the crisis and its impact, and share information with colleagues they are familiar and comfortable with.





As much as employees want information, they also dont want information overload which can overwhelm and cause further anxiety or confusion.

Environmental disasters, corporate fraud, product failures, the disruption wrought by a global pandemic: any of these can propel an organisation into crisis communication mode, but in the drive to manage the fall-out and protect their reputation, companies often neglect to talk to their most important stakeholders  employees.The uncertainty, insecurity, fear and anxiety that go hand-in-hand with a crisis impact negatively on employee productivity and engagement, and in turn affect the organisations performance, yet research shows that employees needs are often ignored in a crisis.Executives tend to prioritise communication with external stakeholders such as the media, shareholders, affected communities and government, but neglecting employees needs not only hinders productivity and performance, it can also backfire on external crisis communication efforts when staff share their negative views with other stakeholders or on public platforms.Employees need to make sense of a crisis through clear, relevant, useful and consistent communication; they need practical guidance on how to continue doing their jobs; and they need to believe that the employer is showing care and consideration for them, and listening to them.Kotze said that while managers were aware of the need for communication in times of crisis, it was mostly viewed from the perspective of senders such as senior executives with little attention paid to what employees actually needed from their organisations.Employees tend to have stronger and more complex relationships with the organisation than other stakeholders, and they are ambassadors for the organisation who interact with and influence other stakeholders  hence the need for a tailored and employee-centred approach to crisis communication, Kotze said.Her research provides new insights into employee crisis communication in South Africa and offers practical recommendations for managers to optimise internal crisis communication in a more employee-centred way.Kotze said her study was motivated by a dearth of both local and global research on internal crisis communication, particularly in relation to the needs of employees.Internal communication has a significant influence on employee engagement, which in turn positively influences their productivity and organisational commitment. This makes internal communication an indispensable element of crisis management, as ineffective communication can significantly worsen a situation that is literally a matter of life and death, Kotze said.She conducted separate focus groups with senior executives and with employees, drawn from a number of organisations that had previously experienced crises.A surprising finding from the feedback of both executives and employees was that South African organisations actually do aim to follow an employee-centred approach to internal crisis communication, and that managers actively strive to understand and meet employees needs through internal crisis communication.This is a departure from previous research in other countries which found that organisations often ignore employees needs during a crisis. Albeit from a small sample, it might suggest a progressive approach by South African organisations, and it warrants further research, Kotze said.Her research found that employees have a strong need for sensemaking  the process of gathering and processing information to understand and make sense of a crisis, and find meaning, direction and purpose for moving forward. They expect their employers to provide that information and will turn to the grapevine instead if they dont, causing a risk of unfounded rumours and misinformation spreading.Employees want communication that they deem clear, relevant and useful. To be relevant and useful, information should enable employees to do their jobs, help them understand how they and their work are impacted by the crisis, and tell them how to act in response to the crisis, Kotze said.Crises are perceived as a threat and they spark fear, she said, and employees need to believe that the leadership is in control and need to be made aware of what management is doing to manage the crisis.A further need is for care and consideration, a need that is met when employees feel their voices are being heard and when the organisation shows that it is acting with consideration for employees.If managers strive to follow these guidelines in developing their internal crisis communication approach, this research suggests that employees will react positively. This positive reaction and the satisfaction of employee needs will ultimately benefit the organisation in terms of employees identification with the organisation, their trust in the organisation, and increased or sustained engagement and productivity.Organisations will enjoy similar benefits if leadership is clearly displayed during a crisis and if the organisation makes employees aware of the tangible actions it has taken in the face of the crisis, Kotze said.
Creative Studio Manager/Art Director

Remuneration: Rand30000 - Rand35000 per month CostToCompany Location: Johannesburg, Modderfontein Education level: Diploma Job level: Management Type: Permanent Reference: #ArtDirectorSMD Company: SMD Technologies

Oversee the work and production for +/- 9 designers and a traffic coordinator.

Manage monthly performance and incentive bonuses through KPIs.

Manage and oversee all freelance to third parties, within budgets.

Screen and manage hiring of additional staff with HR.

Staff mentoring and growth as well as identifying areas of improvement for skills development.

Track and manage all leave and time away from work.

Motivate for and report on performance for annual increases and bonuses.

Project Management: Working with Traffic Coordinator-

Assist with the decoding of briefs and advise timelines / requirements for planning.

Triage projects in terms of importance and assist with the switching between projects and staff.

Daily follow ups with Traffic to ensure that projects are delivered on time.

Ensure that weekly reporting is completed to directors including the capture of hours for tasks outside of main work priorities.

Liaise with third parties on briefs, obtaining work and clarity for designers where needed.

Attend meetings with suppliers and clients.

Direct follow up with designers and external staff on projects.

Collate and submit invoices for cost centres to accounts.

Maintain systems such as Image services, Project management Software, Presentations and company shared folders.

Liaise with foreign offices for daily tasks, changes and other requirements as needed by international partners.

Arrange all IT requirements, including maintenance of computers, printers and disposable stock or office equipment.

Maintain and oversee the use of equipment for photographic studio, lighting and camera equipment.

Maintain and oversee the booking out of samples and other stock.

Maintain design standards in accordance with the existing brand guidelines.

Ensure that all packaging meets international requirements for shipping to all continents for Consumer Protection Information and language requirements.

Oversee the design and creation of new brands, changes to existing brands and consistency across all items.

Quality control of all artwork including spell checking, checking of images, codes, specifications, on active projects.

Pre-production signoff on all artwork before mass production.

Marketing research for appropriate projects and briefs where needed.

Improvement to feature writing / copywriting as supplied by product development.

Hands-on design, brand development and graphic design where needed.

Advise on images, packaging styles and pre-production art direction for product photography and dieline development.

Ensure that all assets (images, logos, catalogues, style guides) are up to date and accessible to all areas of the business.

Organised

Ability to Delegate

Attention to Detail and Excellent Spelling

Ability to triage and meet deadlines

Ability to work within resources supplied

Personal grit and determination

Ability to pivot, change tasks and multi-task.

Complete oversight and management of the design team

Experience in Digital and DTP Packaging team leadership a MUST

Must submit a portfolio that showcases DTP packaging design

Company Description

SMD Technologies is a leading retail wholesale distribution company, dealing with brands such as Volkano, Rocka, Bounce, Amplify, Connex, and so much more.As thefor SMD, your role is split into three parts - Staff management, Project Management and Art Direction for SMD Technologies and our affiliated brands.Below are some of the tasks performed daily. This purely a guide., must be ready to dive in and get involved with other tasks requested from you.Staff Management: Reporting directly to Group Creative Director -R30,000- R35,000 per monthSMD Technologies is a leading personal and commercial electronics brand developer. We are the fastest growing brand originator and distributor of high quality consumer electronics, audio products and commercial electronics globally. Posted on 27 May 13:31
Link Building/Communication/PR Person

Remuneration: Rand5000 - Rand12500 per month BasicSalary Benefits: Fully remote company, flexi-hours Location: Cape Town Education level: Degree Job level: JuniorMid Type: Permanent Reference: #LinkPR Company: Travel Tractions Pty Ltd

Job description

Analyzing various niches and verticals (as well as competition within them)

Scrutinizing clients websites and identifying linkable assets

Developing custom strategies and tactics (based on analysis) for maximum efficiency

Locating and vetting viable link prospects and opportunities

Crafting compelling outreach

Keeping outreach conversations fresh through regular follow-ups

Engaging and interacting via social media

Representing clients companies online

Organizing and maintaining multi-faceted campaigns

Strong communication skills

Creative thinking

Independence

Organizational skills

Internet savvy

Being a team player

Two+ years of experience

Accustomed to a fast-paced environment

Own laptop and a positive attitude

Company Description

Travel Tractions is looking for a talented, hustle-driven individual who specialises in Link Building, Communication, and PR to join our fast-growing team.If you think you are the correct person for the position, please make use of the link on our website, traveltractions.com, to apply for the position. No applications will be accepted via email. Should you not hear back from us in 14 working days, your application was unfortunately unsuccessful.Travel Tractions was born from a necessity to offer a better SEO and digital marketing service, and actually help businesses. Having been a travel SEO marketer and consultant for 10 years, Matt found there was no specific travel SEO service that explained exactly what they offered and delivered. Fiverr, Freelancer and Upwork became tiresome to manage, with flakey freelancers and expensive mistakes. Fed up with paying other peoples school fees, Travel Tractions was created. Posted on 27 May 14:40
Search match: All words Any word Exact phrase Date posted: All Last day Last 3 days Last 7 days Last 14 days Last 30 days Last 60 days Highest qualification: All NotApplicable Matric Diploma Degree Honours Masters Doctorate Experience level: All Student Junior JuniorMid Mid Senior Management MidSenior Executive Remuneration: All salaries GreaterThan5000 GreaterThan10000 GreaterThan15000 GreaterThan20000 GreaterThan30000 GreaterThan40000 GreaterThan50000 Position type: All Permanent Contract Temp BEE policy: N/A BEE Salary specified jobs only:
Leading fashion and lifestyle retailer TFG shared its strategy to revolutionise the omnichannel experience and transform into Africa's leading high-tech omnichannel retailer. "We are laying the foundations to become the largest, most reliable and most profitable e-commerce destination on the continent; via a simplified, customer-centric approach, aimed at maximising group scale, minimising duplication and cost, and leveraging our incredible assets," shared newly appointed co-chief omni officer Claude Hanan. The announcement came as part of the retailer's 2021 financial year-end presentation.
A key component to ensuring schools are safe is getting as many people vaccinated against COVID-19 as possible, especially now that students as young as 12 are eligible, Jackson said. Though COVID-19 is not on the current list of required immunizations for students, the district has been encouraging it, hosting vaccine events at schools that are open to students and their families, in partnership with the Chicago Teachers Union.
Anne in Xinjiang: live streaming for the first time

08:54, May 27, 2021 By Wu Chaolan, Su Yingxiang, Annemarie Li ( People's Daily Online

Live-streaming e-commerce is booming in Kashgar, northwest Chinas Xinjiang autonomous region. People in Xinjiang sell local products such as nang flatbread online, which sells well across China and nearby countries. Lets follow Anne to experience the live-stream.

(Web editor: Bianji, Hongyu)
The course is only available through Malcolm X College, and the City Colleges of Chicago has no intention of expanding it to other colleges in its group, Resa said. However, it is available to everyone and can be completed anywhere at any time, she added. Malcolm X College is continually registering people for the course, but it is not eligible for college credit.
Frese said Bahena Rivera was not a monster, had no history of violence and worked to avoid police, given that he had moved to the country illegally from Mexico as a teenager. He said it made no sense that his client would be brazen enough to pick up a woman, abduct her and maybe kill her in a span of 10 to 20 minutes.
Supreme Court Justice Luis Roberto Barroso this week ordered the federal government to immediately adopt all necessary measures to protect the life, health and safety of indigenous populations in Yanomami and Munduruku territory. He also accused the government for recalcitrance and lack of transparency in ensuring the health and safety of Indigenous groups.
A Mt. Vernon man charged with rape and kidnapping posted bail on Feb. 23 and has no scheduled court appearances until a June 1 plea hearing.


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Sarai automaticamente diretto al link in cinque secondi.
Just before 7 p.m., the men were standing in the street in the 6700 block of South Ada Street on the South Side when someone in a silver four-door car fired shots at them after an argument, police said.
Just before 3 p.m., the two were inside a vehicle in the 1700 block of East 95th Street in the Calumet Heights neighborhood when someone approached them and fired shots, police said.
Chicago police officers were flagged down about 1:45 a.m. in the 2300 block of East 75th Street by the driver of a ride-share vehicle, shortly after his passenger had been shot in the head, according to an online media notification. Police were responding to an alert from ShotSpotter, the citys gunshot detection system, when the driver entered the parking lot of a gas station and got the officers attention.
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Manitoba recorded its deadliest day of the third wave of the COVID-19 on Thursday, announcing eight new deaths linked to the virus.

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Manitoba recorded its deadliest day of the third wave of the COVID-19 on Thursday, announcing eight new deaths linked to the virus.

That figure includes two people from Prairie Mountain Health, a woman in her 30s and a man in his 60s. The woman's death is linked to the B.1.1.7 variant of concern, while the man's death is linked to an unspecified variant of concern.

Of the remaining six deaths, five were from Winnipeg and the sixth was in Southern Health-Sante Sud.

A total of 297 new cases of COVID-19 were announced on Thursday, with two being removed due to data correction for a net increase of 295. The total number of lab-confirmed cases in Manitoba since the pandemic started in 49,651.

The five-day test positivity rate for the whole province is at 12.6 per cent and 14 per cent in Winnipeg.

In an email sent to members of the media sent Thursday, a spokesperson for Shared Health said an additional three ICU patients had been transferred to hospitals in Ottawa, Peterborough and Woodstock in Ontario.

This brings the total number of patients who have been transferred from ICUs in Manitoba to Ontario to 26. However, one patient that had been transferred to Owen Sound, Ont. has improved enough that they no longer require critical care and was returned to Manitoba on Wednesday.

There are 73 COVID-19 patients in Manitoba ICUs plus another 25 in Ontario for a total of 98 ICU patients connected to the virus.

Manitoba is expecting to transfer more patients to Ontario as well as to Saskatchewan for the first time today.

 The Brandon Sun
The Brandon School Divisions board of trustees took time out of their regular meeting on Tuesday to remember local education figurehead Beatrice Jolly, who passed away on May 17 at the age of 92.

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The Brandon School Divisions board of trustees took time out of their regular meeting on Tuesday to remember local education figurehead Beatrice Jolly, who passed away on May 17 at the age of 92.

Even though Jolly served as a BSD trustee from 2006 to 2010, board chairperson Linda Ross said her contributions extended far beyond this one role.

Bea Jolly of the Delta Kappa Gamma International Society helped in presenting the grade one students at Ecole New Era with a new book to take home as part of the the societys literacy projects in 2013. (File)

"Bea was very active in the community of Brandon, serving with all sorts of organizations on many committees," Ross said at the very beginning of Tuesdays meeting.

According to an obituary published in the Brandon Sun on Saturday, these organizations include: Delta Kappa Gamma Society, St. John Ambulance, Brandon United Way, Child and Family Services, CNIB and the YWCA.

In fact, the YWCA presented Jolly with a lifetime achievement award in 2016 for her long-term commitment to volunteerism in general.

Brandon University student Linda Tame received a certificate from Bea Jolly, right, during a salute to outstanding female students in recognition of International Womens Dayin 2014. (File)

But to Ross, Jolly will probably be best remembered for her status as a local educator, having moved to Canada from the United Kingdom in 1967 to work at the BSD.

Throughout the years, Jolly taught at St. Michaels Academy, Ecole secondaire Neelin High School and Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School, while also serving as a home economics consultant for Manitoba Education.

Outside of her work at BSD, Jolly also spent her later years at Brandon University, serving as a member of the BU Senate and Board of Governors.

St. Matthews Cathedral members Joanne Walker and Bea Jolly, check out pictures from the past at the celebration banquet in 2007. (File)

Because of all these accomplishments, Ross said that Jolly and her husband Malcolm received the Manitoba School Boards Associations Presidents Council Award in 2003, which recognizes the lasting and pervasive impact someones had in the field of public education.

"It was a bittersweet moment because it was lovely that they got the award, but Malcolm had passed just several weeks before the award was presented," Ross said.

Jolly was born in Preston, England, to Arthur and Helen Emmett on Dec. 8, 1928. She obtained a home economics degree from Bristol University in 1949 and went on to teach in her home country for 17 years before moving to Canada.

Bea Jolly (left) chats with Marcia Wiebe at the 29th YWCA Women of Distinction awards gala in 2016. Jolly died on May 17 at the age of 92, having dedicated a large portion of her life to organizations such as the YWCA and the Brandon School Division. (File)

Ross closed out her comments on Tuesday by characterizing Jolly as a "force to be reckoned with" throughout her many decades working in the local education system, and someone whose contributions are still being felt to this day.

"We extend our sincere condolences to her daughter Helen and to the rest of her family," the chairperson said.

Jollys private memorial service and interment was held at St. Matthews Cathedral this past Friday.

 kdarbyson@brandonsun.com

 Twitter: @KyleDarbyson
The provinces new Parent Engagement Task Force started conducting virtual meetings last week to try to gauge public opinion on the best way to roll out education reform.

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The provinces new Parent Engagement Task Force started conducting virtual meetings last week to try to gauge public opinion on the best way to roll out education reform.

The task force consists of parents, school administrators and even some MLAs, including former education minister Ian Wishart.

Pamela Nowosad-Federowich is representing the Brandon School Division on the provinces new Parent Engagement Task Force. (Submitted)

The group also contains at least two Westman representatives  Wawanesa School principal Brent Hauser and Maryland Park School parent council president Pamela Nowosad-Federowich.

According to a May 20 news release from the province, these task force members are responsible for using the feedback they receive in these meetings to better define the role of parents under Bill 64, the Education Modernization Act.

This includes determining the roles and responsibilities of the new School Community Councils  groups that would largely replace local school boards if Bill 64 passes into law.

Hauser told the Sun on Wednesday that he is still getting used to his new role as a Parent Engagement Task Force member, having just taken part in his first virtual meeting the previous night. This particular meeting involved parents who live in the Evergreen and Lakeshore regions.

"Ive heard a lot of positive and negative things, so Im willing to sit in with an open mind," he said.

Even though she is officially designated as a Brandon School Division representative, Nowosad-Federowich told the Sun that she also wants to look out for rural interests as this process moves forward.

After all, Nowosad-Federowich believes that these smaller schools could be put in jeopardy if Bill 64 becomes law in its current form, where all the real decision-making power will be passed from local school boards to a single provincial authority.

"The concerns are that a centralized authority may not be able to respond to rural needs. The needs may fall through the crack completely," she said this past Friday.

"Well try our best to convince the government that Bill 64 is a working document that needs a fair bit of amendment before it can go forward."

Nowosad-Federowich said that she is also skeptical of how effective the proposed School Community Councils will be if Bill 64 passes, since they will almost be entirely composed of parent volunteers.

Speaking as a parent council member, Nowosad-Federowich firmly believes that parent volunteers alone cannot be responsible for fulfilling the roles and responsibilities usually reserved for paid school administrators and trustees.

"Because parents arent versed in some of the areas of expertise that theyre asking parents to become involved in," she said. "Parents are stretched thin as it is, with many households featuring working parents  so adding that much more onto a parents plate is going to become so much harder on a lot of families."

Right now, the provinces Parent Engagement Task Force is scheduled to conduct a total of 15 regional meetings throughout May and June, including four telephone town halls.

While some virtual meeting dates have yet to be posted, a telephone town hall for Brandon and surrounding rural communities will take place on June 15, starting at 6:30 p.m.

This isnt the first time that the province has organized a large-scale public consultation campaign on education reform, having received feedback from thousands of Manitobans to complete their K-12 education review.

Even though some have criticized the province for not following through on the recommendations laid out in this report, both Hauser and Nowosad-Federowich encourage as many local stakeholders as possible to take part in this new round of consultations.

After all, Nowosad-Federowich said it is important for concerned citizens to make their voices heard right now since there is still time to make some amendments to the legislation that will remove some of its more problematic elements.

"I dont think anyone is really disputing the fact that our education system needs to be reviewed and possibly upgraded," Nowosad-Federowich said. "Its just to what extent were going to go to achieve the results that we need."

Those interested in taking part in these upcoming Parent Engagement Task Force meetings can register by visiting engagemb.ca/better-education-starts-today.

kdarbyson@brandonsun.com

 Twitter: @KyleDarbyson

Members of Manitobas Parent Engagement Task Force

Members of the Legislative Assembly

 Scott Johnston  Assiniboia

 Ian Wishart  Portage la Prairie

 Janice Morley-Lecomte  Seine River

Parent representatives

 Terry Brown  Kindergarten to Grade 12 review commissioner

 Amanda Gurke  community connector and parent member, Indigenous Inclusion Directorate Advisory Committee

 Pamela Nowosad-Federowich  Brandon School Division

 Jason Perring  Louis Riel School Division

 Rachel Smith  Family Advocate Network

 Jodene Baker  Winnipeg School Division

School administration

 Brent Hauser  principal, Southwest Horizon School Division

 Susanne Marius  principal, Division scolaire franco-manitobaine

 Mike Babb  principal, Winnipeg School Division

 Colin Campbell  assistant superintendent, Hanover School Division

 Don McCaskill  assistant superintendent, Frontier School Division
Manitobas police watchdog is investigating after a woman was seriously injured in a collision with a police cruiser.

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Manitobas police watchdog is investigating after a woman was seriously injured in a collision with a police cruiser.

On May 21, the RCMP reported an incident to the Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba that happened at approximately 3:50 p.m. the same day.

A police officer was doing traffic enforcement on Highway 20, approximately five kilometres south of Winnipegosis, according to an IIU press release.

The vehicles emergency lights were active and the officer was doing a U-turn when a collision occurred with another vehicle.

There were two occupants in the other vehicle, the IIU said, and one person was taken to the Dauphin Hospital with a fractured rib and ankle.

A fractured rib is a serious injury, so the IIU is mandated to investigate.

Anyone with information or video footage is asked to contact the IIU at 1-844-667-6060.

The incident is still under investigation.

 The Brandon Sun
OTTAWA - A United Nations agency is launching an investigation into Belarus's arrest of a dissident journalist after his flight was diverted on dubious pretences last Sunday.

OTTAWA - A United Nations agency is launching an investigation into Belarus's arrest of a dissident journalist after his flight was diverted on dubious pretences last Sunday.

The governing body of the Montreal-based International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) said Thursday it will open a fact-finding probe into "the apparent forced diversion" of the airliner, which saw Belarusian authorities detain journalist Roman Protasevich and his girlfriend Sofia Sapega.

In this handout photo released Monday, May 24, 2021, by Belarus Government press office, Belarus journalist Roman Protasevich speaks to a camera in a prison in Minsk, Belarus. The G7 says it will ramp up its efforts to hold Belarus accountable for arresting a dissident journalist on board an intercepted jetliner. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP-Belarus Government press office via AP

The investigation will seek to determine whether there was a breach of international aviation law. It is unclear what else might result from the report by the secretariat of the ICAO, a specialized agency with minimal authority over sovereign states.

The announcement comes after pleas from G7 officials and an urgent meeting of the 36-member ICAO council Thursday morning.

Earlier that day, the G7 said it will ramp up its efforts to hold Belarus accountable for arresting the duo, though additional penalties have yet to be nailed down.

The countries' foreign ministers, along with a European Union representative, said they will impose "further sanctions as appropriate," condemning the act as an attack on press freedom and civil aviation rules.

The EU has already moved to ban Belarusian airlines from its skies, advised EU carriers to steer clear of flights over the country and pledged further economic sanctions.

On Sunday, Belarusian air traffic controllers diverted a Ryanair flight between Greece and Lithuania to Belarus's capital, Minsk, claiming there was a bomb threat.

On the ground, authorities detained Protasevich and Sapega, who both later appeared in videos under apparent duress.

Transport Canada urged Belarus to release all individuals who have been arbitrarily detained and called on it to co-operate with a council investigation.

"Canada remains deeply concerned by the ongoing crackdown against journalists and peaceful protesters by the Belarusian government," the department said in an email Thursday.

Transport Canada on Tuesday posted an "airspace security warning  in response to unusual excessive measures by Belarus," advising airlines against flying over the country.

Belarus charges euro-denominated fees to use its airspace. The largest flights cost the equivalent of more than $400 and amount to millions in state revenue each year, estimated Robert Kokonis, president of Toronto-based consulting firm AirTrav Inc.

Nonetheless, the sudden drop in air travel represents a relatively small earnings dent, particularly with countries such as Russia and Turkey continuing to cruise over Belarusian skies.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau echoed European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and U.S. President Joe Biden in calling Sunday's brazen act "an attack on democracy" and freedom of the press.

"The behaviour of the Belarus regime is outrageous, illegal and completely unacceptable," Trudeau said.

The same day, the Belarusian Embassy in Ottawa announced it will shut its doors, stating in a website post that activity will be suspended as of Sept. 1. The statement made no reference to international outrage over the recent incident.

Canada announced sanctions against 55 Belarusian officials last year after an election that Global Affairs Canada said was "marred by widespread irregularities" amid a "systemic campaign of repression" and human rights violations under President Alexander Lukashenko, who has served in the office since its creation in 1994.

He was sworn in for a sixth term after a landslide election victory last August that sparked countrywide protests and global backlash over a vote that was widely seen as fraudulent.

Protasevich, 26, is part of a disparate group of Belarusian journalists and activists campaigning in exile against the presidents 27-year reign.

He co-founded the Telegram channel Nexta, which has helped rally anti-Lukashenko demonstrations, landing him on a wanted list for terrorism in 2019. The state charged Protasevich in absentia last year with "organizing mass riots and group actions that grossly violate public order."

He was travelling on Ryanair Flight 4978 from Athens to Vilnius, Lithuania, on Sunday afternoon when air traffic control, assisted by a Belarusian fighter jet, prompted the plane to turn around and make an emergency landing at the Minsk airport.

Marcus Kolga, a human-rights activist and senior fellow at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, said the EU ban on Belarus's state-owned airline Belavia marks "a good first step," along with western government warnings to avoid Belarusian airspace.

More hardline economic penalties are also available.

Western countries could curb Belarus's sovereign debt market by barring their financial institutions from buying bonds from its central bank, as the United States did with Russia last month.

They could stymie Lukashenko's access to the global banking system by banning Belarus from SWIFT, a Brussels-based electronic network used by more than 11,000 financial institutions to transfer money and information.

Canada should also look to fund programs that support families of the thousands of victims of government crackdowns over the past couple years, Kolga said, as well as lend a hand to media that report on Belarus from abroad.

"There is no independent media left in Belarus. Anyone that was operating as a journalist has either been thrown in prison and remains in prison or theyre in exile," he said.

Despite the risk of pushing Belarus further into Russia's orbit, Canada must work with other liberal democracies to halt "transnational repression" by Belarus, Russia and other authoritarian states that has spilled beyond their borders in the form of attempted poisonings, election interference and other tactics, he said.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 27, 2021.
HALIFAX - Nova Scotia granted access to COVID-19 vaccines to residents as young as 12 on Thursday, opening appointments to more than 74,000 people in the 12-to-19 age cohort.

Two vials of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine sit on a table at a COVID-19 vaccination clinic in Halifax on Monday, May 24, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Andrew Vaughan

HALIFAX - Nova Scotia granted access to COVID-19 vaccines to residents as young as 12 on Thursday, opening appointments to more than 74,000 people in the 12-to-19 age cohort.

The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is available to anyone 12 and older, while the Moderna vaccine is only open to people 18 and up.

Health officials reported 33 new cases of COVID-19 Thursday and 182 more recoveries. Nova Scotia has 638 active reported cases of COVID-19.

Meanwhile, the federal government on Thursday announced an $11.4-million investment for the province's health-care and long-term care facilities.

Federal Fisheries Minister Bernadette Jordan told reporters the money will fund 39 projects across the province related to increasing the safety of residents, patients and staff.

"The pandemic has shone a light on systemic issues affecting long-term care facilities across the country and it's essential that we protect that health and well-being of our seniors," Jordan said.

Nova Scotia Health Minister Zach Churchill said the province is investing another $2.8 million this year to support the renovations.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 27, 2021.

  

This story was produced with the financial assistance of the Facebook and Canadian Press News Fellowship.
The latest news on COVID-19 developments in Canada (all times eastern):

The latest news on COVID-19 developments in Canada (all times eastern):

5:50 p.m.

Alberta is reporting 513 new cases of COVID-19 and one new death.

Health officials say 538 people are in hospital with the virus and, of those, 150 are in intensive care.

There are 10,017 active cases and 3,409 of them involve the more contagious variants of concern.

Since the pandemic began, a total of 2,199 Albertans have died of COVID-19.

Dr. Deena Hinshaw, the provinces chief medical officer of health, says the positivity rate is at 6.1 per cent.

5:10 p.m.

British Columbia's provincial health officer says many people will receive COVID-19 vaccines earlier than anticipated due to there being a "steady" supply to do so.

Dr. Bonnie Henry says the interval between receiving a first and second dose will drop from a maximum of 16 weeks to eight weeks for the province's age-based distribution plan.

B.C. reported 378 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the total to 143,264 since the pandemic began, along with seven new deaths.

Henry says indoor faith services are also eligible to be restarted, with up to 50 people allowed inside provided there is proper physical distancing.

4:25 p.m.

Deputy chief public health officer Dr. Howard Njoo says Canada now has 27 confirmed cases of vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia and another 14 cases are under investigation.

A week ago, Njoo reported 21 confirmed cases and 13 under investigation.

Five people have died from the rare blood-clotting disorder, which is potentially linked to the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine.

About 2.19 million Canadians received a dose of AstraZeneca before the provinces mostly halted its use for first doses two weeks ago.

If all suspected cases are confirmed, it would mean one person in about 50,000 people who received the AstraZeneca vaccine developed the blood clot disorder.

3:40 p.m.

Saskatchewan is reporting 118 new cases of COVID-19 today.

Six more people have died due to the virus  five in Saskatoon, and one in the northwest region of the province.

A total of 534 people in the province have died due to COVID-19 since the beginning of the pandemic.

There have been 216 recoveries, leaving the province with 1,382 active cases.

The province also reported 127 people in hospital, 27 of whom are in intensive care.

2:50 p.m.

Nova Scotia is reporting 33 new cases of COVID-19 today and 182 more recoveries.

Health officials say 18 new cases are in the eastern region of the province, which includes Cape Breton.

One of the new cases involves a staff member at Harbourstone Enhanced Care, a long-term care facility in Sydney, N.S.

Nova Scotia has 638 active reported infections.

2:25 p.m.

Manitoba is extending its COVID-19 restrictions as case numbers and hospitalization rates remain high.

A ban on social gatherings, both indoors and out, that was due to expire Saturday will now run until June 12.

The same goes for a rule that requires only one person per household to enter a store or other business.

Public schools in Winnipeg, Brandon and some other areas that have switched to remote learning will have to continue until the week of June 7.

1:35 p.m.

Manitoba is reporting 297 new COVID-19 cases and eight deaths.

The percentage of people testing positive, averaged over five days, remains high at 12.6 per cent provincially and 14 per cent in Winnipeg.

1:30 p.m.

Newfoundland and Labrador is reporting six new cases of COVID-19, three of which are linked to a growing outbreak in the central part of the province.

Health officials say there are now 49 cases confirmed in connection to the cluster in central Newfoundland.

Officials confirmed Wednesday that the B.1.617.2 variant first discovered in India was driving the spread.

The Department of Health says there are now 89 active reported COVID-19 infections in the province, including five people in hospital due to the disease.

1:15 p.m.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says he supports the call by the United States and others to better understand the origins of COVID-19.

He says these efforts will not only ensure accountability but also full understanding of how to protect the world from any future pandemics.

Trudeau says he knows there are a lot of theories out there, but a full and complete airing of the facts is necessary to actually understand what happened and prevent it from happening again.

President Joe Biden has ordered U.S. intelligence officials to "redouble" their efforts to investigate the origins of COVID-19, including any possibility the trail might lead to a Chinese laboratory.

11:30 a.m.

Procurement Minister Anita Anand says Moderna has confirmed it will ship 500,000 doses of its COVID-19 vaccine next week, and another 1.5 million doses the week of June 14.

The Massachusetts-based company has been struggling with its production lines and deliveries this spring have been lagging.

Initially, Moderna intended to send 12.3 million doses between April and June but has shipped less than one-third of those to date.

Its confirmed shipments will get it close to half the way there.

Anand says the company is still promising to send "millions more doses" in June but there is no clarity on how many or when.

11:00 a.m.

Quebec is reporting 436 new cases of COVID-19 today and 10 more deaths attributed to the virus, including one within the past 24 hours.

Health officials say hospitalizations have dropped by five, to 394, and 96 people are in intensive care, a drop of five.

The province says it administered 86,453 doses of vaccine yesterday, bringing the total to just over 5.2 million doses.

That means about 57 per cent of the population has received at least one dose.

Quebec also says it will shorten the delay between first and second doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine to eight weeks from 16 weeks.

10:50 a.m.

Ontario is reporting 1,135 new cases of COVID-19 in the province and 19 more deaths linked to the virus.

Health Minister Christine Elliott says there are 316 new cases in Toronto, 271 in Peel Region and 75 in York Region.

Over 143,000 doses of a COVID-19 vaccine have been administered since yesterday's report, for a total of more than 8.5 million doses.

10:45 a.m.

Nunavut is reporting no new cases of COVID-19 today.

There are now 21 active cases of COVID-19 in the territory, all in the capital of Iqaluit.

The city of about 8,000 people has been under a strict lockdown since April 15, with all schools, workplaces and non-essential businesses closed.

To date, 17,104 adults in the territory of about 40,000 people have received one shot of the Moderna vaccine and 14,611 have had the required two doses.

10:30 a.m.

Members of the military are set to start working tomorrow in Manitoba to help address a surge in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations.

The personnel include critical care nurses and lab technicians, and their presence is expected to run for four weeks.

Premier Brian Pallister requested the help last week as the province posted the highest daily case numbers, per capita, in the country.

The province's intensive care units are so full, 23 critical patients have been transferred to Ontario.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 27, 2021.
Chicago police dispatch alerted Illinois State Police to the shooting after the victim exited the expressway and stopped at a Shell gas station at 9802 S. Halsted St. in the Longwood Manor neighborhood, according to state police.
OTTAWA - Prime Minister Justin Trudeau formally apologized on Thursday for the internment of Canadians of Italian descent during the Second World War, saying the community has carried the weight of the unjust policy for generations.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau rises during question period in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Wednesday, May 26, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

OTTAWA - Prime Minister Justin Trudeau formally apologized on Thursday for the internment of Canadians of Italian descent during the Second World War, saying the community has carried the weight of the unjust policy for generations.

He told the House of Commons that internees were business owners, workers, and doctors, but they were taken away to internment camps scattered across Canada.

"Once they arrived at a camp, there was no length of sentence," he said. "Sometimes, the internment lasted a few months. Sometimes, it lasted years. But the impacts  those lasted a lifetime."

Trudeau said the country didn't have to declare war on Canadians of Italian heritage when it declared war on Italy's fascist regime in June 1940.

"To stand up to the Italian regime that had sided with Nazi Germany, that was right," he said.

"But to scapegoat law-abiding Italian Canadians, that was wrong."

He said 31,000 Italian Canadians were labelled "enemy aliens," and then fingerprinted, scrutinized and forced to report to local registrars once a month.

Trudeau said more than 600 men were arrested and sent to internment camps, and four women were detained and sent to jail without formal charges, ability to defend themselves in a fair trial or a chance to present or rebut evidence.

"To the tens of thousands of innocent Italian Canadians who were labelled enemy aliens, to the children and grandchildren who have carried a past generations shame and hurt and to their community  a community that has given so much to our country  we are sorry," he said.

Trudeau said those who were interned did not turn their backs to Canada, and instead, they chose to contribute to building it, proving they loved the country they had chosen as their home.

"Every thriving business these men and women rebuilt or local charity they started was a testament to their commitment to Canada," he said.

"What better way to show that the injustice done to them had been a mistake?"

Trudeau delivered a few lines in Italian and wove personal stories into his speech, including that of Giuseppe Visocchi, who he said was apprehended while attending a wedding in Montreal in 1940.

"The officers who took him away told his family that they just had to speak with him, but he would be able to come right back," the prime minister said.

"He didn't. Within weeks, he was at a prisoner of war camp in Petawawa, wearing a uniform marking him as an internee, with a target on the back and the number 770.

In addition to Petawawa, Ont., camps were also located in Kingston, Ont., Kananaskis, Alta., and Fredericton, N.B., Trudeau said.

Trudeau said after Visocchi came back to his family two years later, he worked hard to build a better life, bought a house and taught his children to be upstanding citizens.

"Courage, resilience, an unshakable belief that we are stronger together. That was the path he chose. And it's a path we must continue to choose today," he said.

Opposition parties also lent their voices to the apology, with Conservative Leader Erin OToole sharing several stories of Canadians who were impacted.

O'Toole said former prime minister Brian Mulroney apologized for the internment in 1990 at an event hosted by the Italian Canadian community and attended by several surviving victims at the time.

He said both apologies acknowledge the pain caused to thousands of Canadians by their own government.

"For over a century, Italian Canadians have indeed given their big hearts, their tireless energy and their labour to Canada," he said.

NDP leader Jagmeet Singh said the apology will give Italian Canadian families the justice they deserve, but he called on the government to also provide compensation.

He said the federal government froze Italian Canadians' bank accounts, many had to sell their homes and women had to find work to become breadwinners.

"Restitution can only be accomplished with compensation for Italian Canadian families that were impacted, that Canada had wronged," he said.

Some experts, including Roberto Perin, a professor emeritus of history at York University, have expressed concern that the apology could absolve actual fascists.

He said the prime minister shouldnt have delivered a "blanket apology, as there were a number of fascist sympathizers among those who were interned.

"Some of these people had collaborated with the Italian consular officials that represented the Italian government at the time," he said.

"These officials were active propagandists for fascism and for Italy's foreign policy, and some of these people wrote articles, gave speeches in support of the regime."

However, he said designating people as "enemy aliens" who had to report regularly to the RCMP was a "draconian measure" and included his father and maternal grandparents. The government should apologize for that act, he said.

Montreal historian Joyce Pillarella, whose grandfather was interned, has said Italian Canadians had little choice but to do business through the consulates at the time.

"People had to be sympathetic with the consulate or at least appear to be, because otherwise they're not going to get anything done," she said last week.

Bloc Quebecois MP Marie-Helene Gaudreau told the House that some internees were sympathetic to Benito Mussolinis regime, which used the diaspora to further its own interests.

"But many of the Italian Canadians internees had no connection to Mussolini's regime. Their internment was discriminatory and unfounded."

Gaudreau also highlighted the plight of Italian Canadian women, who she said were left alone with several children, no income and no assistance.

"Children died of malnutrition in the complete indifference of the authorities," she said.

Green MP Elizabeth May said Mulroney's apology was insufficient because it was not delivered in the House of Commons and thanked Trudeau for giving the expression of regret the "gravitas" it deserved.

May also rejected the notion from some historians that Canada should not apologize "too fully."

She said that even if some of those who were interned were part of fascist organizations, they were detained without due process and that was wrong.

"Most of the people arrested, from the historical records that I can find, had nothing whatsoever to do with any political movement and were loyal Canadians.

"So let the apology be full."

This report was first published by The Canadian Press on May 27, 2021.

This story was produced with the financial assistance of the Facebook and Canadian Press News Fellowship.
MOBERLY, Mo., May 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- New investment from top companies continues to pour into Missouri. Swift Prepared Foods is the latest company to open its doors in the state  hosting a grand opening on Monday to celebrate the new $68 million facility in Moberly, Missouri.

"It is always exciting when companies choose to invest and grow in Missouri," Governor Mike Parson said. "With the opening of its facility here in Moberly and the recent announcement of its new facility in Columbia, Swift Prepared Foods has shown a commitment to the people of this state. We are proud that Missouri is home to great companies like this one and look forward to working together for many years to come."

Swift Prepared Foods joins more than 400 food companies already operating in the state. Its new Missouri facility will produce ready-to-eat, fully cooked bacon. The investment will create nearly 200 new jobs in the region.

"This is a great day for Swift Prepared Foods, and we are proud to call Missouri home as we continue to grow our company and create opportunity for our team members," said Tom Lopez, President and Chief Operating Officer, Swift Prepared Foods. "This milestone marks our entrance into the region, and we look forward to making Moberly an even better place to live and work."

"Moberly and Randolph County are fortunate to welcome such a quality employer to our area," Moberly Area Economic Development Corporation President Michael Bugalski said. "We extend our sincere thanks to Swift Prepared Foods for choosing our community for this substantial investment. We look forward to a long relationship with Swift Prepared Foods and are thankful for the opportunity to bring new jobs and investment to the area."

Swift Prepared Foods provides high-quality protein products and innovative prepared foods throughout the U.S. This is the company's sixth facility in the country.

"Missouri is a great place to do business. With modern energy laws, we are partnering to attract businesses and job growth to our state, such as with the new Swift Prepared Foods facility in Moberly," said Marty Lyons, President of Ameren Missouri. "In Missouri, new and expanding businesses can get one of the best economic development rate incentives in the country. It's just one way we are helping communities with the Ameren Missouri Smart Energy Plan."

Swift Prepared Foods highlighted Moberly's strategic location, as well as support from the community and state as key reasons for their decision to expand into the region.

"We are thrilled that Swift Prepared Foods chose to invest in Missouri," Missouri Partnership CEO Subash Alias said. "Missouri Partnership was honored to partner with Austin Consulting, and our friends at the Moberly Area Economic Development Corporation, Ameren Missouri, Missouri Department of Economic Development, and the Missouri Development Finance Board to bring this project to Missouri."

In recent months, companies such as Carlisle Construction Materials LLC, Chewy, Inc., and Melaleuca, Inc., have invested more than $500 million in new facilities across the state.

Media Contact: Janelle Higgins, janelle@missouripartnership.com

View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/leading-global-food-company-opens-new-facility-in-missouri-301298751.html

SOURCE Missouri Partnership
Want to praise someone or get something off your chest? Darts and Pats is the place to do it.
Wall Street strategists face an almost impossible task in trying to analyse the outlook for bitcoin and other tokens after a volatile rout. Even so, they are still trying, and some see the risk of more trouble ahead.

At JPMorgan Chase, a team led by Nikolaos Panigirtzoglou reckons its premature to call the end of the bitcoin selloff. Meanwhile, in a wide-ranging report, Goldman Sachs signalled that extreme swings hamper cryptos appeal for institutional investors. And Medley Global Advisors warned of the threat of spillovers if bitcoin drops well below $US20,000 ($25,840).

Wall Street is struggling to make sense of what is happening with bitcoin. Credit:AP

It is too early to call the end of the recent bitcoin downtrend, JPMorgan strategists wrote in a note, citing in part momentum signals and a lack of buying in bitcoin funds and regulated futures.

The largest cryptocurrency has rebounded this week after another weekend of big gyrations to be fetching around $US40,000 on Thursday morning AEST. But bitcoins drop of around 40 per cent from a mid-April record headlines a cryptocurrency crash thats become emblematic of waning speculative zeal.
Lily Wickett felt there was no time to waste when she decided to be a hairdresser and has had no regrets about leaving school early.

Being able to start young gives you so many more opportunities in the future, she said.

With little interest in school, she left in year 9 to start her career. Having suffered with anxiety and depression, her success in hairdressing boosted her confidence and enthusiasm. Now aged 17, she is studying a Certificate III in hairdressing at TAFE NSW in Ultimo and working at a hairdressing salon in Ingleburn.

Its amazing  it has given me so many opportunities since leaving school that I never thought would come my way, she said. It allows me to be able to make people happy. I love the environment and the training that comes with it.
In Shepparton, locals say they have never seen more help wanted signs in the main street. Restaurants in Byron Bay are closing on Monday and Tuesday nights for lack of staff. A shortage of train drivers is hampering efforts to get the West Australian grain harvest to the Geraldton port. Fruit growers across the nation are wondering who will pick the crop this year.

Businesses across Australia are battling labour shortages as the economy lifts out of the COVID slowdown. The latest data reveals there are 288,700 unfilled positions in Australia, which translates to the highest job vacancy rate ever recorded.

Unemployed hospitality workers with donated food boxes last year ... now theres a shortage of hospitality staff. Credit:Penny Stephens

Hospitality is the hardest hit industry, with 88 per cent more job vacancies than a year ago and employers scrambling to rehire workers they previously let go. The hot housing market has pushed construction vacancies up 61 per cent and real estate vacancies up 44 per cent. Vacancies in retail and manufacturing are up more than 30 per cent.

As businesses struggle to find workers, its hard to escape the conclusion that Australian policymakers have completely misdiagnosed the problem.
Police were called to contain a brawl between students at Walgett Community College after simmering tensions within the community erupted on school grounds, forcing teachers to intervene and leaving a police liaison officer with a minor injury.

A student filmed the incident on Tuesday morning and posted the footage on social media. It shows several students fighting and others being attacked when they stepped in to intervene.

At the end of the video, one student could be heard saying: A ghetto school. Im f *** shaking. Six students were given suspensions of 10 days each, and a police liaison officer suffered a minor injury when she intervened. No charges have been laid.

Walgett Community College has one of the highest rates of truancy in the state and has struggled to attract teachers and principals despite generous incentives. The school in north-western NSW receives more money per student than any other in NSW, public or private.
Being upfront about minor side effects may encourage more people to come forward for their COVID-19 vaccine, experts say, amid concerns that the chance of developing flu-like symptoms is hampering vaccine coverage and keeping some people away.

Roughly half of the people who receive a COVID-19 vaccine report some kind of adverse reaction, but only 1.2 per cent of people attend a doctor or emergency department as a result, a rolling survey by the National Centre for Immunisation and Surveillances AusVaxSafety group shows.

Registered nurse Rebecca DeJong received a COVID-19 vaccination at Townsville University Hospital last month. Credit:Ian Hitchcock/Queensland Health

About one third of people are worried about mild side effects, having to see a doctor and miss work, said Professor Margie Danchin, a vaccine researcher at the Murdoch Childrens Research Institute and lead author of a new report into vaccine uptake. But having a sore arm, headache and fatigue in [the] first two days after being vaccinated are normal and it is a really great sign that the immune response is working well.

We need to demystify the experience of mild side effects and emphasise how common they are.
A Gold Coast factory has been gutted by fire on Thursday afternoon, as multiple firefighters responded to calls of an explosion.

Emergency services were called to Township Drive in Burleigh Heads about 2pm to respond to a factory fire.

Smoke billows from a factory fire at Burleigh Heads near the Gold Coast Highway. Credit:Nine News

The industrial factory was one of eight on the property.

Nine Queensland Fire and Emergency Services crews were on scene and black plumes of smoke were seen billowing into the air above the Gold Coast Highway.
Border checks at Queensland airports and road border crossing sites have returned as the state closes its border to Victoria.

Returning Queenslanders who have been in Victoria in the past 14 days will be ordered into two weeks hotel quarantine or refused entry.

Commuters will be randomly stopped by police on Queensland borders. Credit:Elise Derwin

The announcement by Chief Health Officer Jeannette Young was triggered by Victorias COVID-19 outbreak in Greater Melbourne.

Victorians have since gone into a seven-day lockdown after about 10,000 close or secondary contacts of current local confirmed COVID cases had been identified.
Dennis Alexander lost control of his vehicle, which then plowed into a live power line pole and fell off the ramp into the pond about 2:30 a.m. Thursday, according to state police and the Will County coroners office.
Ruslan Kogan has had a rough trot in recent weeks. After a bumper pandemic, the online retail multimillionaires kogan.com miscalculated demand and overdid the spending spree, leaving it with full warehouses and forcing it to miss earnings forecasts. The share price slumped, reducing the value of his 15 per cent stake by more than $22 million to $138.9 million.

And more bad news for Kogan, hes failed to make the Australian Financial Reviews Rich List, out today.

Credit:John Shakespeare

But the online retail giant and his wife, Anastasia Fai Kogan, have every reason to smile.

CBD can reveal the Melbourne couple are expecting their first child, an heir to the Kogan online retail empire.
Loading We planned a three-month trip because Sandys long service leave was due, Mr Runkel said from a truck stop in Violet Town in north-east Victoria. With COVID it had to be cancelled. Mrs Runkel, who is a nurse, was able to take annual leave to start their four-week trip to NSW early. She said a holiday was absolutely needed after the stress of 2020. It was a harrowing year last year, she said. The couple later said they had made it across the border into NSW.

Others raced home to regional Victoria to be with their families. Medical student Tara Kearns packed her bags and returned to her home town of Torquay from university accommodation in Melbourne on Wednesday. She wanted to help her parents, who are doctors with three younger children, at home. Im feeling pretty scared because Ive got exams coming up and its hard because all last year I did year 12 in lockdown and that was hard enough, and now with the first medical exams coming up, its even scarier. This is my future and what Ive studied for and now we have to go back into lockdown. Loading Replay Replay video Play video Play video Ms Kearns went for a COVID-19 test first thing on Thursday morning and said the nurses were slightly anxious about people coming from Melbourne while infected. The state government said on Thursday that hotels and other accommodation could stay open during lockdown in order to support existing guests, but no new bookings could be made.

Loading When asked whether people could go to their holiday homes to ride out the lockdown, acting Premier James Merlino said wherever people were at midnight is where they should remain for the next week. We want people to be doing the right thing. This is about staying at their place of residence. Where you are tonight is where you need to be for the duration of this lockdown. Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism chairman Wayne Kayler-Thomson said he expected some Melburnians with holiday homes would rush to the region, but some accommodation providers, including the RACV resort in Torquay, had already closed. On Thursday afternoon Mr Kayler-Thomson said he had not seen evidence of people flocking to the coast. He said tourism operators were feeling total disappointment again. Just when theyre starting to take some positive steps forward and planning for the future, its back to the past again.

Bass Coast Shire chief executive Ali Wastie said people had already started arriving in popular spots, including Phillip Island and Inverloch on Thursday morning. Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism Board chair Tracey Cooper said her industry was gravely concerned about the possibility of an extended lockdown. She said many people had stayed on the peninsula rather than returning to their homes in Melbourne after last years months-long lockdown. Travel restrictions for Victorians heading interstate NSW Anyone arriving in NSW who leaves Victoria after 4pm today will be required to follow the lockdown restrictions enforced in Victoria. That means remaining in isolation at their home or place of residence in NSW for the seven-day duration of the Victorian measures. The health department said the requirements will differ for NSW residents living in communities bordering Victoria. Queensland As of 1am on Friday, anyone who has been in Victoria in the past 14 days and trying to enter Queensland will either be turned around at the airport or ordered into two weeks hotel quarantine in Brisbane or Cairns. South Australia Any person who has been in Greater Melbourne any time in the 14 days prior to their intended arrival (but not before Thursday 20 May 2021) is not permitted to enter South Australia Western Australia From 10am (WST) on Thursday travellers were not allowed into Western Australia from Victoria without a specific exemption. Travellers already in WA are required to test and isolate for differing periods of time depending on whether theyve been to an exposure site. ACT The ACT government will introduce a new stay-at-home requirement for anyone who leaves Victoria after 11.59pm on Thursday and then enters the ACT. Tasmania Travellers who have spent time in Victoria in the 14 days prior to their arrival in Tasmania, are not permitted to travel to Tasmania Northern Territory Northern Territory will require any travellers from Greater Melbourne and Bendigo to go into mandatory quarantine upon arrival. Interstate residents were also quick to flee Victoria on Thursday morning to return home before lockdown restrictions came into place. The NSW government announced that anyone arriving in the state from Victoria after 4pm Thursday must follow the lockdown restrictions enforced in Victoria from midnight.

This means anyone arriving in NSW who has been in Victoria since 4pm today must remain at their home or place of residence in NSW for the seven-day duration of the Victorian measures, NSW Health said in a statement. Daryl Cooke was visiting family with his wife this week in Murchison, in central Victoria, but decided to go home to Sydney a day early as news of Melbournes lockdown was announced. Daryl Cooke and his dog Parda on their way back to NSW on Thursday. Credit:Joe Armao We cant afford to be stuck in Victoria for two weeks, he said from a service station near Wangaratta. Mr Cooke expected to arrive home in Sydneys south about 9pm on Thursday night. He did not anticipate any problems getting across the border but wanted to leave before any rules changed.

Who knows what can happen in the future? Events producer Aly Jolly and her 11-year-old son Johnny spoke to The Age from Melbourne Airport, just before boarding a flight to Sydney. Aly Jolly and her 11-year-old son Johnny were at Melbourne Airport on Thursday morning, heading back to Sydney while they could. With her son, they had seen the first part of theatre show Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on Wednesday night, but were leaving the city before the second show on Thursday to get home before a lockdown. Her son was devastated. We have just decided to pull the pin and get out of here, she said. My husband rang this morning and said get to the airport.
The first repatriation flight from India to Melbourne touched down early on Thursday evening, several hours before the Victorian governments seven-day snap lockdown begins.

About 150 people on Qantas QF112 flight from Delhi to Melbourne via Darwin landed at Melbourne Airport around 5pm, following an 18-hour journey.

Returning travelers are taken straight from the plane to quarantine after the first repatriation flight to Melbourne from India landed on Thursday. Credit:Getty Images

Some of the travellers had been bumped off the first repatriation flight after returning a positive COVID-19 test from a laboratory that has since had its accreditation suspended following complaints about inaccurate tests.

Victoria had moved to shut its borders to international travellers during previous lockdowns, but acting Premier James Merlino said the scheduled repatriation flights from the COVID-ravaged country would not be cancelled. Nor would flights from other countries, with Victoria continuing to take 1000 people a week.
Australia notched up a record day for vaccinations on Thursday, with 124,871 doses administered throughout the country.

This is the most doses administered in a single day since we started getting daily updates on the rollout progress early last month.

Victoria, NSW and Queensland all recorded the highest single-day totals yesterday.

Using this new interactive table, you can see how daily dose numbers have tracked in your state or territory. By default it shows a progress bar, but click one of the arrows for each state/territory and it will extend out into a graph. To bring up the daily totals, click the daily button.

You will notice that there are typically five days in a row of high dose numbers followed by two days of very low numbers  that is because the high days are weekdays and the low days are weekends.

Some states, such as Queensland, show a single-day surge on April 18 that exceeds any day since - this is because of delayed dose data being added to the states tally, not because there was a stampede to get vaccinated on that day.

These changes have also been pushed through to our vaccine tracker data centre, which compiles worldwide data on countries vaccine rollouts.
But suggesting that this is the cause of the lockdown gives us all false hope that the COVID-19 jab will eliminate the need for other defences from the virus. Sadly, even more effective programs have not eliminated the need for restrictions and lockdowns. Loading Replay Replay video Play video Play video Singapore for example, where 28 per cent of the population are fully immunised, is in the middle of a four-week lockdown. In Canada, where more than half the population have had one jab, there are stay at home orders for Ontario and Quebec.

Claiming that a quicker vaccine rollout would have prevented a lockdown is wrong. It also implies that the vaccine is 100 per cent effective. Claiming that a quicker vaccine rollout would have prevented a lockdown is wrong. Credit:Eddie Jim Emerging data from Britain show both the AstraZeneca and Pfizer jabs cut the risk of contracting COVID-19 by as much as 70 per cent. Great results but far from perfect. So far Australia has been offered greater protection from its hotel quarantine program than any vaccine. Although the Victorian government wants us to think its also at fault.

Since the system started in March 2020 more than 300,000 people have returned through the state-run hotel quarantine system and there have only been 20 breaches. Loading For every 100,000 people who have been through Australias hotel quarantine system, about 6.6 breaches have taken place. That makes it more than 99 per cent effective. Its true that those breaches have dire consequences, but it has so far been our best defence at keeping Australia relatively COVID-19 free.

The state government wants us to believe that we wouldnt be in this snafu if the Commonwealth had agreed to its plan to build a purpose-built quarantine hub at an animal quarantine site in the citys north. The major hole in his argument is that the Morrison government has made it clear it will only support the Howard Springs-style quarantine facility if the citys hotel quarantine sites remain open. This means returned travellers will continue to quarantine at city hotels even after any purpose-built quarantine hub is in operation. It would also do little to eliminate the risk of travellers quarantining in different states. Even on the state governments own timeline, construction of any facility would not start until September and travellers would not be accepted until later in the year. But according to Merlino, If we had an alternative to hotel quarantine for this particular variant of concern, we would not be here today.

Hotel quarantine and the vaccination program should be under constant scrutiny. But even with the strongest vaccination rates and best quarantine system, we also need to constantly shine a spotlight on state defences such as contact tracing and testing. While new cases are being linked to each other, it is still unclear how it jumped from the Victorian man who picked up the virus in hotel quarantine. More than 10,000 people have potentially been exposed. Credit:Getty With more than 10,000 people potentially being exposed, its clear contact tracers have a huge task and have so far kept up with the growing number of sites and potential close contacts. They have managed to identify first, second and third ring contacts within 24 hours but are still clueless as to how it started. When this was challenged journalists were told it was an absurd proposition that contact tracing has gone wrong.

What we do know is that it took almost two weeks for health authorities to realise they had listed the wrong Woolworths store as an exposure site after the Wollert man who picked up the virus in South Australian hotel quarantine visited the store. The department originally listed Woolworths Epping but it was the store in Epping North more than 4km away. Loading Health authorities argue that there is no evidence that any of the latest cases are linked to supermarket mistakes, but surely thats the problem. Genome sequencing has confirmed the latest cases are related to that of the Wollert case but we still dont know how it spread. If the state government wants to point the finger at the Commonwealth or South Australia, it must be willing to accept that its own failures have also contributed to this current lockdown. Denying any mistakes or culpability will again prevent necessary changes to the COVID-19 response that are needed to keep us safe.
The federal governments reliance on the international border closure had bred a shell be right complacency towards the national vaccination program, senior Labor frontbencher Ed Husic said on Thursday.

Australias ongoing border closures, first introduced in March last year and set to last at least two years, was the first issue to be raised on the ABCs Q&A on Thursday night.

Ed Husic has slammed the federal governments international border ban for breeding vaccine complacency. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

The discussion came as Victorians headed into a seven-day lockdown, the states fourth in the past year, after 12 new cases of COVID-19 were detected on Thursday taking the outbreak tally to 26.

Australias vaccination rollout has been plagued by delays and rising hesitancy with just 3.9 million jabs administered as of Thursday, still short of the four million that Prime Minister Scott Morrison promised would be delivered by March.
Liberals have plenty of theories about who is pulling the strings in a ruthless powerplay that threatens at least two of Scott Morrisons ministers and might even cost him some federal MPs. Every faction is blaming the other for starting an argument that hurts the Prime Ministers plan to select the Liberal candidates he needs to win the next election.

But when Liberals look up to identify the puppet master with the strings in his hands, many of them see one of Morrisons best mates  Alex Hawke, the faction leader with a talent for numbers like few others in Parliament.

Illustration: Simon Letch Credit:The Sydney Morning Herald

Hawke has a low public profile as Immigration Minister but high visibility in the back rooms of the Liberal Party as one of the top figures in the centre-right faction in NSW. His tight friendship with Morrison is part of his power, not only because he is the Prime Ministers representative on the NSW state executive but because he is a member of the prayer group who helped get the numbers for Morrison in the August 2018 spill that made him leader.

While his friendship has been a vital part of Morrisons rise, it now comes at a cost. The conflict over preselections has unleashed so much anger at Hawke that some of it might end up hitting Morrison as well.
Infectious diseases physician Paul Griffin said there is a strong argument for Australia to follow Singapore and Germany and move to prioritise first doses to the wider adult population, allowing limited supplies to be used more broadly. There is the argument that Australia has the facilities and capabilities to go full speed ahead and give a vaccine to everyone who wants one as soon as possible, he said. Loading Replay Replay video Play video Play video We do need as many people vaccinated as we can urgently. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said more than half of Australians over the age of 70 have now received either one or both doses of a vaccine, and people should continue to come forward.

There are ample doses there in Victoria and indeed in parts right around the country for people to go and get their vaccination and we would encourage them to do just that, he said in Canberra on Thursday. Loading But Professor Fiona Russell, a vaccines adviser to the World Health Organisation, said Victorias plan to widen vaccine accessibility to Victorians in their 40s failed to target young people, who posed the greatest danger of spreading the virus quickly during an outbreak. We know that people aged 20 to 29 are the main transmitters of this virus and thats where Pfizer should be being allocated, Professor Russell said, noting that those in their 40s were unlikely to become severely ill with the virus and were not huge transmitters of the disease. Young adults often had mild symptoms of the virus and were at heightened danger of spreading the disease because they were more social and less likely to heed to social distancing rules.

Thousands of Victorians in their 40s rushed to book in their Pfizer shots as an onslaught of calls to make appointments for vaccinations caused the states coronavirus hotline to temporarily crash. The rush to get immunised against the virus in Melbourne led to queues of hundreds of people at the mass vaccination hub including the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre after vaccination eligibility was broadened. Super Blood Moon, Super Blue Moon Credit:Matt Golding Greens leader and Melbourne MP Adam Bandt said vaccines should be made as widely available as possible. Opposition health spokesman Mark Butler said if additional doses were available it would be great to get as many injections into peoples arms as possible, but older people had to be the priority. To help encourage people to get vaccinated, Qantas and Jetstar want to give Australians either frequent flyer points or flight vouchers for getting immunised. The idea, which has been taken to the federal and NSW governments, would be retrospective and run until the end of the year.

Qantas chief customer officer, Stephanie Tully said the company relied on travel so it was keen to help with the national vaccine effort and get its people and planes back to work. The demand for domestic travel has been really strong and we know a lot of people cant wait to see family overseas, she said. There are already a lot of good reasons to get a vaccine as soon as youre able to, and wed be happy to add another one to the list. Hopefully, other companies are looking at incentive options as well. Epidemiologist James McCaw said with outbreaks of increasingly infectious coronavirus variants inevitable, the countrys vaccination program may need to be overhauled to target young people who were more likely to be infected and transmit the virus.

All of these questions need to be revisited. It may be that those sorts of strategies, which target those who are most likely to spread the virus, make more sense, said Professor McCaw, who is leading a research team providing modelling on the pandemic to the federal government. Australian Medical Association president Dr Omar Khorshid said the current approach focusing on older Australians first was the right way to continue the vaccine rollout. They suffer so much worse from COVID, and weve vaccinated just over 50 per cent of over 70s, so theyre still the priority. Weve got to get them done, he said. Loading The decision to limit AstraZeneca to people over the age of 50 was always open to being overturned if there was a significant outbreak, but on Thursday the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation released a statement saying it stood firm on its existing advice.
Avalon Airport is emerging as the favourite location for a village-style quarantine facility for international travellers, weeks after the state government nominated land neighbouring a pet quarantine site in Melbournes north as its preference.

The Age has learned that the federal government prefers Avalon because it would like to keep open the option of expanding the pet facility in Mickleham, the only one of its kind in Australia, onto neighbouring land.

The federal Agriculture Department has voiced concerns that a village-style facility on its land would derail expansion plans. Credit:

Victorian government officials have accepted the decision on where to build an alternative to hotel quarantine ultimately rests with the Commonwealth, which owns the land at both sites.

The Howard Springs-style facility will be built only if Canberra approves Victorias request for them to fund it, which appears increasingly likely after Prime Minister Scott Morrison spoke glowingly of the proposal on Thursday.
Months after the Morrison government nominated the elderly as the priority in Australias immunisation rollout, sixteen aged care homes in Victoria have not had any coronavirus vaccine shots.

Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt defended the governments aged care vaccination program, saying 97 per cent of homes around Australia had now received at least their first vaccine dose.

Abe Schwarz with his mum Tess at her aged care facility.

But under concerted attack from the federal opposition on Thursday, Mr Hunt acknowledged that 16 of Victorias 598 aged care homes had not had any doses delivered to either residents or workers.

Homes were to be vaccinated in phase 1a of the rollout, which began on February 22 and was meant to be completed in six weeks.
Companies that want to set up data centers in this state now would have to hire union labor, if the amendment filed by Walker stays. Its easy to see what the fallout would be. The people behind data centers would shrug and say, Illinois is too expensive. Too many hoops to jump through. Lets take our business to Indiana, Iowa or a host of other states that offer tax incentives for data centers without any onerous union hiring mandates.
Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo: Thousands of people scrambled to flee the Congolese city of Goma, some picking their way across landscapes scarred with lava, after officials said a second volcanic eruption could happen any time.

Magma, the molten rock that normally stays beneath the earths crust, had been detected beneath the city and the adjoining Lake Kivu, Constant Ndima Kongba, the military governor of North Kivu province, said on Thursday (Friday AEST), citing seismic and ground deformation data.

The eruption of Mount Nyiragongo, in Goma, which killed more than 30 people. Credit:AP

Given these scientific observations, an eruption on land or under the lake cannot be ruled out at present, and it could occur with very little or no warning, he said.

Thirty-one people were killed on Saturday evening when Mount Nyiragongo, one of the worlds most active volcanoes, sent a wall of orange lava downhill towards the city, destroying 17 villages on the way.
Beijing: Australias ambassador to China has been denied entry to a heavily guarded Beijing court hearing the espionage case against Australian blogger Yang Hengjun on Thursday.

Graham Fletcher attempted to enter the Beijing No. 2 Intermediate Peoples Court in line with a two-way consular pact.

Unfortunately we have just been denied entry to the court. The reason given was because of the pandemic situation but the Foreign Ministry has also told us it is because it is a national security case therefore we are not permitted to attend it, Fletcher told reporters outside the court.

Australian ambassador to China Graham Fletcher, left, has his documents checked by policemen outside the No. 2 Intermediate Peoples Court. he was denied access to Yang Hengjuns case hearing. Credit:AP

This is deeply regrettable and concerning and unsatisfactory. We have had long standing concerns about this case, including lack of transparency, and therefore have concluded it is an instance of arbitrary detention.
For months, Turkish fishermen in the Sea of Marmara have been running into a problem: they cant catch fish.

Thats because a thick, viscous substance known colloquially as sea snot is floating on the waters surface, clogging up their nets and raising doubts about whether fish found in the inland sea would actually be safe to eat.

Scientists say that the unpleasant-looking mucus isnt a new phenomenon, but rising water temperatures caused by global warming may be making it worse. Pollution - including agricultural and raw sewage runoff - is also to blame.

A drone view of a thick layer of mucus - known as sea snot - on a harbour in Istanbul. Credit:Getty Images

As numerous Turkish news outlets have reported, high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus in the Sea of Marmara are leading to an explosion of the phytoplankton populations that discharge the mucus. Though the mucus itself isnt necessarily harmful, it can become a host to toxic micro-organisms and dangerous bacteria such as E. coli. And when it forms a layer that covers the waters surface, it can set off a harmful chain of events, suffocating fish, causing mass die-offs, which in turn leads to plummeting oxygen levels that choke other forms of marine life.
Paris: For the first time since its creation in 1783 in the wake of the French Revolution, the Louvre will be headed by a woman.

Laurence des Cars, the current head of the Musee dOrsay and the much smaller Musee de lOrangerie, has been appointed as the Louvres president-director by French President Emmanuel Macron.

Des Cars, 54, will take over the museum  which belongs to the French state and has an annual budget of about 240 million ($378 million) and more than 2000 employees  at a difficult time. The pandemic has put a brake on international tourism, which accounted for 70 per cent of its visitors. Before coronavirus, the Louvre received about 10 million annual visitors, making it the most visited museum in the world.

Visitors queue outside the Louvre Museum at Louvre, Paris, last week, as France begins to open up after a national lockdown. Credit:Getty Images

She will replace the museums leader of eight years in September. Jean-Luc Martinez had waged an intense media campaign to stay on for a new five-year term.
He could dwell on things, she said. The two were married for about 10 years until a 2005 divorce filing and she hadnt been in touch with Cassidy for about 13 years, Nelms said. It was the 15th mass killing in the US this year, all of them shootings that have claimed at least four lives each for a total of 87 deaths, according to a database compiled by The Associated Press, USA Today and Northeastern University. At the White House, President Joe Biden ordered flags to be flown at half-staff and urged Congress to act on legislation to curb gun violence. Every life that is taken by a bullet pierces the soul of our nation. We can, and we must, do more, Biden said in a statement. Governor Gavin Newsom visited the site and then spoke emotionally about the countrys latest mass killing.

Theres a numbness some of us are feeling about this. Theres a sameness to this, he said. It begs the damn question of what the hell is going on in the United States of America? Members of a union representing Valley Transportation Authority workers were meeting when the shooting began, San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo said, but its not clear the meeting was related to the attack. The shooting took place in two buildings and killed employees who had been bus and light rail operators, mechanics, linemen and an assistant superintendent over the course of their careers. One had worked for the agency since 1999. Eight victims identified earlier were Paul Delacruz Megia, 42; Taptejdeep Singh, 36; Adrian Balleza, 29; Jose Dejesus Hernandez, 35; Timothy Michael Romo, 49; Michael Joseph Rudometkin, 40; Abdolvahab Alaghmandan, 63, and Lars Kepler Lane, 63. Loading Replay Replay video Play video Play video

Singh had worked as a light rail train driver for eight or nine years and had a wife, two small children and many family members, said his cousin, Bagga Singh. We heard that he chose the people to shoot, but I dont know why they choose him because he has nothing to do with him, he said. San Jose City Councilman Raul Peralez said Rudometkin was a close friend. There are no words to describe the heartache we are feeling right now, especially for his family, he wrote on Facebook. Eight families are feeling this same sense of loss tonight and our entire community is mourning as well. There was nothing in public records to indicate Cassidy ever got in trouble with the law. He received a traffic ticket in 2019 and sheriffs officials said they were still investigating his background.

But in court documents filed in 2009, an ex-girlfriend described him as volatile and violent, with major mood swings because of bipolar disorder that became worse when he drank heavily. Several times while he was drunk, Cassidy forced himself on her sexually despite her refusals, pinning her arms with his body weight, the woman alleged in a sworn statement filed after Cassidy sought a restraining order against her. The documents were obtained by The San Francisco Chronicle. The Associated Press generally does not name people who say they have been sexually assaulted. Cassidy had worked for Valley Transportation Authority since at least 2012, according to the public payroll and pension database Transparent California, first as a mechanic from 2012 to 2014, then as someone who maintained substations. Officials also were investigating a house fire that broke out shortly before the shooting, Davis said. Public records show Cassidy owned the two-storey home where firefighters responded after being notified by a passerby. Law enforcement officers cordoned off the area near the home and went in and out on Wednesday.

The gunman probably set some kind of a device to go off at a certain time probably to coincide with the shooting, the sheriff told Today. Loading Doug Suh, who lives across the street, told The Mercury News in San Jose that Cassidy seemed strange and that he never saw anyone visit. Id say hello, and hed just look at me without saying anything, Suh said. Once, Cassidy yelled at him to stay away as he was backing up his car. After that, I never talked to him again. Wednesdays attack was the deadliest shooting in the San Francisco Bay Area since 1993, when a gunman attacked law offices in San Franciscos Financial District, killing eight people before taking his own life.
GOP governor and lawmakers clash over vaccine policy

Photo courtesy of Ohio Governor's office. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and the First Lady in April visited a Jefferson County Health District vaccination clinic at the Fort Steuben Mall.

Through PSAs, press appearances with doctors, and even launching an unheard of $1 million lottery for immunized residents, GOP Gov. Mike DeWine wants to persuade Ohioans to choose to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

He said the facts on vaccines, which are credited with saving millions of lives and eradicating smallpox from the face of the earth, will win out.

Republicans in the state General Assembly, meanwhile, are pushing sweeping legislation to weaken Ohios vaccination laws  for all vaccines, not just COVID-19. On Tuesday, anti-vaccination activists crammed into the House Health Committee hearing room to testify in support of House Bill 248.

The legislation would ban vaccine requirements on customers, employees or students from businesses, hospitals, nursing homes, K-12 schools, colleges, daycares or others. It would also prevent governments, insurers or businesses from offering incentives for people to get vaccinated, or even requesting that people get vaccinated.

In interviews, public health experts warned the legislation would hold the door open for infectious diseases to spread among Ohioans.

Under the bill, a small business owned by asthmatics or cancer survivors  both of whom are at higher risk of serious COVID-19 complications  would have no legal right to require or even request that employees or customers who come inside be vaccinated. Thats according to Dorit Reiss, a professor with a focus on vaccine policy from the UC Hastings College of Law.

Its against business rights, its against the individual rights of private businesses, its against safety, and its in support of the virus, she said.

On Wednesday, state officials are scheduled to announce the first of five winners of a $1 million lottery drawing for vaccinated adults and a college scholarship lottery for vaccinated minors. Four more of each lottery are scheduled over the next four weeks.

DeWine pitched the sweepstakes as a means of nudging Ohioans toward a societally desirable goal of herd immunity, rather than any kind of mandate to meet the requisite level of vaccine coverage. He has recently crisscrossed the state, hosting media events at mass vaccination sites urging Ohioans to get vaccinated.

The political dynamic amounts to a tug of war in which DeWine forgoes mandates for incentives, while his fellow Republicans seek to kill his incentives and legally prevent any mandates.

Since its May 12 announcement, the lottery partially reversed a trend of plummeting demand in the state for COVID-19 vaccinations. Only 44% of Ohioans are vaccine-started compared to about 49% nationwide. But its not just COVID-19: state and federal data shows vaccination rates of Ohio children across the board dropped between 2010 and 2017.

For instance, in 2010, roughly 94% of Ohio children were vaccinated against measles. By 2017, that fell to 88%.

Ohio is one of only 15 states that allows nonmedical (religious or philosophical) exemptions to school immunization laws. HB 248 would further expand this, forcing schools to expressly notify parents of the exemption. A similar bill from 2019 to this effect failed.

James Colgrove, a Columbia University professor who has written several books on vaccine politics and public health, said the effects of legislation like HB 248 are simple.

The easier a state makes it to opt out, the more parents will opt out, he said. In turn, the more parents who opt out, the greater the likelihood you have outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. Its pretty intuitive.

Despite his pro-vaccination tone, DeWine avoided offering any substantive answer Monday when asked about HB 248 or a separate proposal to remove the reasons of conscience exemption from school immunization laws.

He is also navigating a General Assembly dominated by Republicans who have demonstrated their willingness and ability to override his veto on pandemic policy; and competing in a gubernatorial primary in a Republican party that has recently taken an adversarial stance to vaccination.

Pandemic

politics

House Bill 248 wouldnt exist in a vacuum; it would intertwine with preexisting weak school immunization requirements and recent legislation that defanged the Ohio Department of Healths pandemic power.

That legislation, set to take effect next month, prohibits health authorities from quarantining or isolating individuals who have not been medically exposed to a disease. It would also allow lawmakers to vote down public health orders without the governors approval.

Experts said the next pandemic (and there will be a next pandemic) may be of a virus more lethal or more transmissible than COVID-19. Or like COVID-19, officials may be unable to medically diagnose the new illness as it emerges, and thus be unable to issue quarantine or isolation orders to limit its spread.

Its when you take all of these provisions together that you start to think there could be really serious repercussions on the ground in the face of the next epidemic, which might look entirely different from covid, said Jill Krueger, a regional director for the Network for Public Health Law.

Maybe its not respiratory, maybe its foodborne, waterborne, vectorborne.

Reiss offered a similar opinion.

The fact that these are now the laws leaves Ohio in a position where the default wont be as strong a reaction to the pandemic, and youre going to lose valuable time that may make a difference, a dramatic difference between life and death, she said.

Health care groups oppose

The Ohio Association of Health Plans, which represents health insurers in Ohio, issued a statement opposing the bill Tuesday.

HB 248 would put put all Ohioans at risk while increasing the cost of health care for families, individuals and businesses, said its spokesman Dan Williamson. This proposal applies to all immunizations, including childhood vaccines. If passed, this legislation could reverse decades of immunity from life-threatening, but vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, mumps, hepatitis, meningitis and tuberculosis.

The bill would especially hurt insurers, as it would remove their ability to require, request, or incentivize vaccination among the pool of clients whose health care costs they pay for.

On Tuesday, the Ohio Vaccine Coalition  a consortium of hospitals, insurers, public health and business groups  announced opposition to the legislation they say would reverse decades of progress in fighting vaccine preventable diseases.

At its core, this proposal would destroy our current public health framework that prevents outbreaks of potentially lethal diseases, threaten the stability of our economy as it recovers from a devastating pandemic, and jeopardize the way we live, learn, work and celebrate life, the coalition said in a statement.

Two Democrats on the committee issued statements Tuesday criticizing the bill as well.

This legislation is based on fear and misinformation and would hinder the ability of our hospitals and long-term care facilities to protect our most vulnerable citizens from contagious and deadly diseases, said Rep. Allison Russo, D-Upper Arlington.

The House Health Committee hosted its second hearing on the bill Tuesday. One proponent of the bill, a Black woman, decried business or governments distinguishing between vaccinated or unvaccinated people as medical apartheid. The language echoes comments made last week from Rep. Jennifer Gross, who sponsored the bill, comparing vaccine mandates to the Holocaust.

On Wednesday, Sen. Andrew Brenner, who himself promised he wouldnt let the state health director turn Ohio into Nazi Germany last summer, is scheduled to introduce similar legislation to a Senate panel.
The former Central Connecticut player spent most of last season on the New England Patriots practice squad.
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Amid opposition from within the ruling BJP and cases pending in courts, the cabinet on Thursday put on hold its earlier decision to sell 3,667 acres of land to the in Ballari district.

"The previous cabinet's decision to give land to Jindal has not been confirmed in today's cabinet meeting, so the previous decision on this matter will be on hold," Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Basavaraj Bommai said.

Speaking to reporters after the cabinet meeting here, he said, with this decision the previous cabinet decision will not be implemented.

"Lot of cases are there, there is appeal in the Supreme Court, there is a PIL in high court based on which notices have been issued. After looking into all these things, we will take a decision in the days to come," he said.

The earlier cabinet meeting on April 26, presided over by Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa, had agreed to sell 3,667 acres to Ltd in Ballari.

The BJP while in opposition had opposed a similar move and had even staged protests against the then government's decision.

The Congress-JD(S) coalition cabinet in 2019 had decided to convert the lease of 3,667 acres to into sale, in accordance with the initial agreement.

However, amid a row over the decision that drew opposition from various quarters, including the BJP (then in opposition) and within, the Congress-JD(S) coalition cabinet once again discussed the issue and decided to refer it to a cabinet sub-committee.

Accusing the Congress-JD(S) coalition government of selling the land to the company at a throwaway price (Rs 1.22 -1.50 lakh per acre), the BJP, then in opposition, had held a two-day round-the-clock sit-in.

Yediyurappa, who was then a state BJP president, had even accused the ruling Congress-JD(S) coalition of getting "kickbacks" for the sale of land.

After the BJP came to power, the issue was again referred to a cabinet sub-committee headed by Industries Minister Jagadish Shettar, which recommended the government to execute the sale deed.

Today's cabinet decision comes after at least four BJP legislators-Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, Arvind Bellad, K Poornima and Uday Garudachar- wrote to the Chief Minister earlier this month urging him to rollback the governments decision.

They had termed the decision against the interest of the state, and contrary to the BJPs fight against corruption. In 2005, the then government had decided to give on lease-cum-sale arrangement 2,000.58 acres to JSW.

An order on this was issued by the JD(S)-BJP coalition government that came to power thereafter when Kumaraswamy was chief minister and B S Yeddyurappa was industries minister.

In 2007, another 1,666 acres were allotted.

The cabinet has also given its approval for bringing amendments to the Electric Vehicle & Energy Storage Policy-2017.

Bommai said the amendments are being brought in to give more concessions to industries like 15 per cent capital subsidy on fixed assets in five equal annual instalments.

Maximum up to 50 acres of land has been limited for fixed assets.

On COVID, the Minister said with cases rising among children, all government hospitals should set up special wards and ICU should be set up at pediatric wards, and the CM has agreed to it.

He said another issue that was discussed was enhancing procurement of drugs for black fungus, with increase in cases.

(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 countrys largest carmaker is collaborating with manufacturers to boost production of generators in the country.

Maruti has tied up with three small-scale  Airox Nigen Equipments, SAM Gas Products and Gaskon Engineers  for producing generators.

The company on Thursday said that as part of the pact, it has been able to increase the output levels of generators by over 10x.

 decided to involve itself in scaling up production of oxygen generators by small scale units to help overcome the critical shortage of oxygen. We have, in less than a month, increased output levels by more than 10x, said India (MSI) India chairman R C Bhargava.

Bhargava said the reason why the company focused on manufacturing and installing oxygen PSA (pressure swing adsorption) generators was because it provided oxygen at significantly lower cost, avoiding the high cost of transportation and reduced consumption of fuel.

The government and hospitals need to study this option carefully for the future, he added.

Maruti is telling medium- and big-sized hospitals to install oxygen PSA generators.

These generators will not only help with the oxygen shortage but also build efficiency as it will reduce the time taken for transportation and even the losses during the process.

Since we stepped in, 70 oxygen generator plants are being produced in May; in June, it will be 150 with the partners. The backlog order with these suppliers is 225, a company spokesperson said during a press conference.

According to the company spokesperson, a plant with oxygen production capacity of one tonne a day or 500 litres a minute roughly costs Rs 60-70 lakh.

Maruti Suzuki said it will donate 20 such plants to Haryana-Delhi-NCR and the remaining are being commercially decided between its partners and buyers.
Moore said he still thinks he can hold together a council coalition to pass the Lake Shore Drive renaming, even with Lightfoot now officially bringing forth her own plan that shes been touting publicly and in private for some time. She presented that to (aldermen) before, and we still had the votes to pass the Lake Shore Drive plan, he said. Now shes bringing it forward officially to try to get public support, I guess.
Clensta, an IIT Delhi-backed startup providing personal care and home care solutions, received Rs 5 crore as funding from N+1 Capital. This is the first investment by N+1 Capital after it received approval from Sebi for its first investment debt fund for deployment in India.

Clensta will use the funds for scaling up upcoming products in the Homecare category. The company recently entered a strategic tie-up with pharma brand Cipla for its first commercialised products, Waterless Bodybath and Waterless Shampoo.

Puneet Gupta, CEO & Founder, Clensta International stated, We have a strong B2B2C presence with 500-plus hospitals and 25,000-plus retail outlets, including pharmacies. As our business now seeks to penetrate the D2C channels as well, this debt fund helps us grow further and reach out to consumers faster. It also allows us to expand both, offline and online, covering all important aspects of the sales channel. Its a great opportunity that venture capitalist firms like N+1 have introduced revenue-based funding in India, which is quite popular in the west, and are providing the startup ecosystem a thrust to move forward.

Revenue-based growth capital firm N+1 Capitals vision behind these $100 million (Rs 730 crore) funds is to provide an opportunity to over 100 entrepreneurs to grow their businesses profitably and sustainably during the growth stage. The benefits for entrepreneurs include no personal guarantee, tech-driven risk scoring model, greater flexibility and constant capital infusion. The model also provides credibility, assurance, builds trust and reduces the time load for due diligence for the upcoming investors.

"N+1 is sector-agnostic, and the qualifying criteria are actually steady-state, as well as growing and MSEs with minimum monthly revenue of Rs 50 lakh, and at least 30 percent gross margin. Having said that, the fund is currently working with SaaS and some Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) startups, said Rahul Chowdhury, Managing Partner, N+1 Capital.
State-owned NBCC, whose bid was rejected by creditors of Jaypee Infratech, on Wednesday asserted that its offer was "legally compliant" though the company will try to address the objections raised by the interim resolution professional if allowed to submit a fresh bid.

At its meeting held on May 24, the Committee of Creditors (CoC) deferred the voting on Suraksha Group's bid. It also decided to conduct a voting process on May 27-28 to decide whether the two contenders -- and Suraksha -- should be given additional time to submit their revised and final bids.

In a letter to Anuj Jain, the Interim Resolution Professional (IRP) for Ltd (JIL), said it has responded to his letters on non-compliance issues related to its offer to dissenting financial creditors.

had submitted its resolution plan on May 18 and later an addendum on May 22, but both the documents were declared as non-compliant by the IRP.

"We hereby submit that NBCC had submitted a plan after considering all the factors and taking the best possible legal advice," NBCC said.

The Supreme Court Judgement, dated March 24, which directed for calling of bids from NBCC and Suraksha only mentioned about making a provision for full liquidation value for dissenting financial creditors and did not provide for any undertaking for any kind, the public sector firm said.

Accordingly, NBCC said it made provisions in the plan for the complete liquidation value for dissenting financial creditors in various forms.

"We understand from above letters (of IRP) that a few provisions like promotors guarantee, personal guarantee of Manoj Gaur and NCDs have not been considered as valid provisions," NBCC said.

The IRP has also asked for a short fall undertaking to be provided by NBCC.

"Though we consider our plan as legally compliant as per our understanding we appreciate that you have to forward legally compliant plans to CoC as per your understanding.

"Since NBCC is fully committed to the resolution plan which will provide houses to about 20,000 homebuyers who are waiting since long, we are ready to consider your point of view and put up to our Board for necessary amendments," the letter said.

In case it is asked to submit a revised plan, NBCC would do on the basis of the IRP's observations and his satisfaction for the benefit of all the stakeholders, primarily the homebuyers who should not suffer due to differing legal interpretations.

JIL went into the insolvency process in August 2017 after the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) admitted an application by an IDBI Bank-led consortium.

In the first round of insolvency proceeding, the Rs 7,350-crore bid of Lakshadweep, part of Suraksha Group, was rejected by lenders.

The CoC had rejected the bids of Suraksha Realty and NBCC in the second round held in May-June 2019. The matter reached the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) and then the apex court.

In November 2019, the Supreme Court directed that the JIL insolvency process should be completed within 90 days and that the revised bids should be invited only from NBCC and Suraksha Group.

In December 2019, the CoC approved the resolution plan of NBCC with a 97.36 per cent vote in favour during the third round of the bidding process.

Later in March 2020, NBCC had got an approval from NCLT to acquire JIL.

However, the order was challenged before NCLAT and later in the Supreme Court, which in March this year ordered that fresh bids be invited only from NBCC and Suraksha.

(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.)
are looking to restart expansion projects on the back of surging steel prices. In the next five years, about 29 million tonnes capacity is likely to be added, with most of it expected by FY2024.

is looking to add 14.8 million tonnes across Dolvi (Maharashtra), Vijaynagar (Karnataka) and at Bhushan Power & Steel facility in Jharsuguda (Odisha). has restarted its five million tonne expansion project at Kalinganagar (Odisha). Jindal Steel & Power (JSPL) is looking to add 6 million tonnes at Angul (Odisha).

Additionally, NMDC's Nagarnar Steel Plant, is expected to commission its three million tonne greenfield steel plant. All put, the expansion projects add up to about 29 million tonnes.

JSW Steels Vijaynagar plant is at 12 million tonnes. Seshagiri Rao, joint managing and group chief financial officer, JSW Steel, said that the hot metal capacity at four units at Vijaynagar was being expanded, which will give one million tonne of extra capacity. That will happen this year.

A five million tonne expansion at Vijaynagar, approved by the board, will be commissioned in March 2024, at a capex cost of Rs 15,000 crore.

The revamp of a blast furnace at the location will add another 1.5 million tonne. That project was put on hold because we wanted to take a shutdown after Dolvi expansion. Once Dolvi happens, it can come in, Rao said.

The expansion at Vijayanagar will take the capacity at the location to 19.5 million tonne by 2024.

The commissioning of Dolvi expansion by 5 million tonne  which got delayed due to the second wave of Covid-19 - is expected to happen by the end of September. Also, there are plans to increase Bhushan Power & Steels capacity to five million tonnes from 2.7 million in three years.

The countrys other private sector steel major, Tata Steel, recently said that it had restarted its 5 million tonne expansion project at Kaliganagar (Odisha), expected to be completed in FY24.

Jindal Steel & Power, too, said that it would expand capacity from six million tonnes to 12 million tonnes at Angul (Odisha), which would take its overall steel capacity to 16 million tonnes in India. The capex is pegged at Rs 18,000 crore.

V R Sharma, managing director, JSPL said that three million tonnes expansion would be commissioned by end-2023 or 2024 and the balance three million tonne by end-2025 or 2026.

He said, steel capacity would have to be augmented for India to achieve 300 million tonnes capacity.

For the past one year, steel prices have been on an uptrend, touching record levels. Jayanta Roy, senior vice president, ICRA, said, that the upturn in the steel industry has continued unabated since the second quarter of FY 2021, leading to strong cashflows of players.

With a better financial health, leading are now better placed to undertake expansion projects than they were in the past several years, said Roy.

Major used the current cycle to deleverage and strengthen the balance sheet. Tata Steels net debt fell by Rs 29,390 crore to Rs 75,389 crore in FY21; JSPL saw consolidated net debt reduced by Rs 13,773 crore in FY21 and government-owned SAIL reduced gross debt by around Rs 16,150 crore to Rs 35,330 crore (provisional) as on March 2021. JSW reduced Rs 858 crore in debt after a cash-spend of Rs 15,000 crore in organic and inorganic growth last year.

Roy pointed out that in the next five years, domestic will be adding about 30 million tonne capacity, which is about 25-30 per cent of the current domestic consumption. That should largely address any apprehension of steel shortage in India, he added.

Indias capacity for domestic crude steel expanded from 128.27 million tonne in 2016 to 142.72 million tonne in 2020. However, Sharma said, with many small plants shut, effective capacity would be 120-125 million tonnes.
Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne has asked neighbouring Dominica, where fugitive businessman was caught, to hand the diamantaire over to India directly, local media reported.

After news of Choksi's arrest in Dominica came on Tuesday night (local time), Browne told local media that he has given "clear instructions" to the Dominican authorities to repatriate Choksi to India.

"We asked them not to repatriate him to Antigua. He needs to return to India where he can face the criminal charges levelled against him," Antigua News Room, a media outlet, quoted Browne's interaction with journalists in Antigua and Barbuda.

Choksi will not have the same rights in Dominica as he has in Antigua and Barbuda, where he had been staying since 2018 after taking citizenship in 2017 under the Citizenship by Investment programme, Browne indicated.

The prime minister believes for this reason, it would be easy for Dominica to repatriate him directly to India, the report said.

Choksi, who had recently fled from Antigua and Barbuda, was captured after an Interpol Yellow Notice was issued against him.

A Yellow Notice is issued by the Interpol to track missing persons.

Choksi, who is wanted in a Rs 13,500-crore loan fraud in the Punjab Bank, was last seen going for dinner in his car in Antigua and Barbuda on Sunday.

His staff had reported him missing after his car was found.

The businessman's lawyer, Vijay Aggarwal, had confirmed that Choksi had been missing since Sunday.

The reports of Choksi gone missing created a flutter in the Caribbeans island country after the opposition raised the issue in the Antigua and Barbuda Parliament.

Responding to the opposition, Prime Minister Browne had said his dispensation was "collaborating" with the Indian government, neighbouring countries and international police organisations to try and locate him.

Choksi and his nephew Nirav Modi allegedly siphoned off Rs 13,500 crore of public money from the state-run Punjab Bank (PNB) using fraudulent letters of undertaking.

Nirav Modi, lodged in a London jail, is contesting his extradition to India after repeated denial of his bail by courts.

Choksi had taken citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda in 2017 and fled India in the first week of January 2018. The scam came to light subsequently.

Both are facing a CBI probe.

(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.)
which faced a red flag from Brazil's health regulator for supply of COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin to that country over the issues of Good Manufacturing Practices in its plant, has filed a new request to the Brazilian authorities for certification.

According to the National Health Surveillance Agency of Brazil Anvisa, made the request on May 25 and a day before the Ministry of Health of the South American country filed a new application for authorisation to import 20 million doses of the Covaxin.

Earlier, Anvisa denied permission to import Covaxin after its authorities found that the plant in which the jab is being made did not meet the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) requirements.

"Regarding the fulfillment of Good Manufacturing Practices by the manufacturer Bharat Biotech, one of the main aspects that motivated the previous decision, the company filed a new certification request at Anvisa, referring to the production line of the finished product...Complementing the previous information, a new request for certification of Good Manufacturing Practices for the biological input produced by was filed on Tuesday," Anvisa said in a roughly translated Portuguese.

BharatBiotechInternational Limited on February 26 said it has signed an agreement with theBraziliangovernment for supply of 20 million doses of Covaxin during the second and third quarters of the current year.

However, the Brazilian health regulator refused to import the vaccine into the country citing GMP issues.

The vaccine maker had earlier told P T I that the requirements pointed out during inspection will be fulfilled, the timelines for fulfillment "is under discussion with theBrazilNRA and will be resolved soon."



GMP certification of all stages of vaccine production is a prerequisite for the registration of the immunizer in Brazil.

For the exceptional import order, only the minimum data of Good Production Practices are analyzed, but without the need for the certificate in question, Anvisa further said.

Anvisa recently authorised the conduct of clinical trials of Covaxin in Brazil.

Approval for tests on the immuniser developed in India will serve to assess the efficacy, safety and consistency between vaccine batches, it said.

The study which was requested by Precis Farmacutica, representative in Brazil for Bharat Biotech involves the application of two doses, 28 days apart, in 4,500 volunteers, in the states of So Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Bahia and Mato Grosso in Brazil.

(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 Central government on Thursday announced that Covid-19 vaccine trials on children in the country would begin soon.

Member (Health) in NITI Aayog and the chair of National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for Covid-19 (NEGVAC), Dr Vinod K. Paul, made the announcement on behalf of the government while clearing several myths on India's Covid-19 vaccination programme doing the rounds.

Clarifying one such myth that "Centre is not taking any step to vaccinate children", Paul said: "As of now, no country in the world is giving vaccines to children. Also, WHO has no recommendation on vaccinating children."

Paul, however, said that there have been studies about safety of vaccines in children, which have been encouraging.

"Trials in children in India are also going to begin soon. However, vaccinating children should not be decided on the basis of panic in WhatsApp groups and because some politicians want to play politics," Paul said.

Paul further said that the decision in this regard is taken by our scientists after adequate data is available based on trials.

He also made it clear that the Centre is allotting enough vaccines to the states in a transparent manner as per agreed guidelines and they are also being informed in advance of the vaccine availability.

Paul also announced that Vaccine availability is going to increase in near future and much more supply would be possible.

"In the non-Government of India channel, states are getting 25 per cent of the doses and private hospitals are getting 25 per cent doses. However, the hiccups and issues faced by the people in the administration of these 25 per cent doses by the states leave a lot to be desired. The behaviour of some of our leaders, who in spite of full knowledge of the facts on vaccine supply, appear on TV daily and create panic among the people is very unfortunate. This is not the time to play politics. We need everyone to unite in this fight."

He also said that three other companies will start production of Covaxin apart from enhancing Bharat Biotech's own plants, which have increased from 1 to 4.

"Covaxin production by Bharat Biotech is being increased from under 1 crore per month to 10 crore month by October."

Additionally, the three PSUs will together aim to produce up to 4 crore doses by December.

With constant encouragement of the government, Serum Institute is ramping up Covishield production of 6.5 crore doses per month to 11.0 crore doses per month, Paul said.

"The Government is also ensuring in partnership with Russia that Sputnik will be manufactured by six companies coordinated by Dr Reddy's. The Union Government is supporting efforts of Zydus Cadila, BioE as well Gennova for their respective indigenous vaccines through liberal funding under Covid Suraksha scheme as also the technical support at national laboratories."

Paul said that development of Bharat Biotech's single dose intranasal vaccine is proceeding well with Central government funding, and it could be a game-changer for the world.

The estimate of production of over 200 crore doses by our vaccine industry by the end of 2021 is the result of such efforts and unstinted support and partnership.

--IANS

rak/pgh

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Singaporeans and permanent residents (PRs) will be required to present a valid negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test report, obtained within 72 hours prior to their departure for Singapore, starting from 11.59 pm on May 29 (Saturday), local media reported on Thursday.

All Singaporeans and permanent residents will only be allowed to board their flights to on presenting negative test results before departure, except for those who have stayed in lower-risk countries and regions in the last 21 days, the Ministry of Health (MoH) said on Wednesday night.

The lower-risk countries and regions are Australia, Brunei, mainland China, New Zealand, Hong Kong and Macau, according to Singaporean media reports.

The government has recently said on an average, 25 passengers, mostly Singaporean citizens and PRs, were returning home daily from India.

"All travellers will also be required to present their valid COVID-19 PCR test result at the air, sea and land checkpoints when they arrive in Singapore," the ministry said.

Those who arrive in without a valid COVID-negative report may be denied entry, it added. Permanent residents and long-term pass holders who fail to comply may also have their permits or passes cancelled, the ministry warned.

Cargo drivers and other accompanying people transporting goods between Singapore and Malaysia will continue to be subjected to an on-arrival rapid-antigen test at the Tuas and Woodlands (land) checkpoints. They will only be allowed to enter Singapore if they receive a negative test report. They will not be required to take a pre-departure PCR test, the ministry said.

Since November last year, Singapore has required all long-term pass holders and short-term pass visitors entering the country to present a valid negative COVID-19 PCR test report obtained within 72 hours before their departure.

"We had not made this a requirement for Singapore citizens and permanent residents at that time, as we did not want to make it difficult for them to return home quickly, should they be caught unprepared by the rapidly deteriorating pandemic conditions abroad," the Channel News Asia quoted the ministry as saying.

Currently, Singaporeans and PRs will take an on-arrival PCR test before they are put in a dedicated stay-home notice facility.

The health ministry said it has put in place advisories on overseas travel for "some time now", and that Singaporeans and PRs abroad "would have had more time to manage the risks of COVID-19 in the countries that they are in".

Travellers from lower-risk countries and regions are either required to take a COVID-19 test upon arrival in lieu of a stay-home notice or serve a seven-day stay-home notice at their place of residence with a COVID-19 test administered at the end of the notice.

Travellers who test positive on their COVID-19 PCR test should seek appropriate medical care and ensure that they have fully recovered and are non-infectious before travelling to Singapore, the ministry said.

"Singaporeans who test positive for COVID-19 while overseas and require urgent medical care in Singapore can still return to Singapore via a medevac flight or other equivalent forms of conveyance," it added.

The ministry said the multi-ministry task force has been closely monitoring the global COVID-19 situation and regularly reviewing border measures.

"In recent weeks, the global situation has worsened and we have observed the emergence of new and potentially more infectious variants.

"To manage the risk of imported cases and onward transmission within our community, we will be updating our pre-departure testing requirements," it said.

Infectious diseases expert Leong Hoe Nam said the latest measure would help minimise the burden on Singapore's healthcare system.

Since the country's policy is for all travellers who test positive to be admitted and evaluated, those who enter Singapore and end up testing positive for the viral disease would have to be taken to hospitals and community care facilities here, potentially straining the system, the Straits Times cited Dr Leong as saying.

But he noted that this does not mean that the health ministry will turn away Singaporeans or PRs who require serious medical attention. "This move is just to help minimise the cases that are relatively well and could be handled outside of Singapore," he said.

Singapore reported 26 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday -- 23 in the community, one in a dormitory housing foreign workers here and two imported infections.

As of Wednesday, Singapore has reported a total of 61,916 COVID-19 cases and 32 fatalities due to the disease. The ministry said 61,360 patients have recovered from the disease, while 242 are still in hospitals.

(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 Thursday reported a net reduction of 75,684 in active cases to take its count to 2,419,907. Indias share of global active cases now stands at 16.41 per cent (one in 5). The country is second among the most affected countries by active cases. On Thursday, it added 211,298 cases to take its total caseload to 27,369,093. And, with 3,847 new fatalities, its Covid-19 reached 315,235, or 1.15 per cent of total confirmed infections.

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The on Wednesday recorded statements of eight eye-witnesses in the Chhatrasal Stadium case.

They were also interrogated regarding the involvement of Olympian in the of 23-year-old budding wrestler Sagar Dhankar.

Earlier, arrested four associates of Kumar from the Kanjhawala area of the capital on Tuesday night in connection with the case.

According to Delhi Police, all were found to be the associates of Kumar.

"They, also active members of the Kala Asauda-Neeraj Bawana Gang, revealed the entire conspiracy and sequence of events of the of Sagar. NBW's were pending against them," the police had said.

An incident of a brawl among wrestlers was reported on May 4 in which some wrestlers were injured and they had to be admitted to a hospital and one of them, Sagar, died during treatment.

On Sunday, Sushil was arrested from the Mundka area in the capital along with his associate Ajay Bakkarwala, who was with him on a two-wheeler.

(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 government has exhausted its Covaxin stock for people over 45 years while that of Covishield will last only 12 days, MLA Atishi said on Wednesday.

So, this means that those awaiting their second dose of Covaxin in are in a situation wherein they may be wondering if their first dose will go to waste, she said.

Covaxin doses are administered at Centre-run hospitals like the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).

For the 45 and above group, about 2.92 lakh doses of Covishield are in stock and this can be used for just 12 days of vaccination. The Covaxin stock, which was available at a diminished scale till recently, is already exhausted, Atishi said.

The few Covaxin doses that were available in the past few days were used for administering the second dose, she said.

In a vaccination bulletin issued online, Atishi said, "Yesterday (Tuesday), only 43,824 doses were administered in total while the count was over 1.25 lakh or 1.4 lakh per day till recent time."



"For the 18-44 age group, we were vaccinating over 80,000 people per day till a few days ago but now it has halted as we don't have doses for this category of beneficiaries," the legislator of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) said.

On May 25, 43,824 beneficiaries were vaccinated. Of these, over 33,000 beneficiaries received the first dose and about 10,000 received the second dose, she added.

The continued decline in vaccination numbers has been due to the shortage of vaccines, Atishi said.

Now, vaccination for the 18-44 age group is only being carried out in private hospitals with each dose priced between Rs 800 and Rs 1,350, an amount many youths in can't afford to pay, she said.

"We would like to again appeal to the central government to immediately approve and import other vaccines including Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson so that the youth can get the vaccine as soon as possible as a third wave is expected," the leader said.

A lot of vaccines are available in the international market that have not been approved by the Centre yet but have been approved by the WHO. Today, all across the world, countries are administering vaccines like Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson, she said.

The Centre must approve these vaccines at the earliest, import them on a large scale, and allow an increase of India's vaccine manufacturing capacity, Atishi said.

"They must supply these (vaccines) to all the states as soon as possible, including Delhi, as it is the only way to protect ourselves from the third wave," she 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.)
Xinjiang officials denounce hearing by illegal tribunal

China Daily) 09:21, May 27, 2021

A local tourist guide shows people around the Street for Entrepreneurship and Employment in Shache county, Kashgar prefecture, Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, on May 21, 2021. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

China has strongly condemned the upcoming public hearing by a "Uyghur tribunal" on genocide accusations in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, calling it a grave violation of international law and a serious provocation to the 25 million people of all ethnic groups in the region.

Xu Guixiang, a spokesman for the Xinjiang regional government, said at a news conference on Tuesday that the British tribunal, set up by Western anti-China forces and East Turkestan organizationsgroups of secessionists advocating Uygur "independence"will soon hold a so-called hearing on the allegation of "genocide" against Chinese government.

Xu said the tribunal is a pseudo court established for hostile forces to attack and smear Xinjiang and interfere in China's internal affairs. All the activities organized by it are only a show staged by these forces to carry out their conspiracy to "control China by using Xinjiang".

"An illegal court to hear a century-old lie is absolutely absurd," he added.

Elijan Anayat, another spokesman for the Xinjiang government, said the tribunal has no basis or validity in international laws. It was set up by individual anti-China politicians and lawyers, as well as the "World Uyghur Congress"an anti-China separatist organization.

He said the court is not a judicial body, doesn't follow any judicial process and the trial's purpose is simply to manipulate public opinion under the guise of the law.

Genocide is the most serious international crime. The Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide requires a strict legal process. Since the introduction of the convention in 1951, major genocide cases have been overseen by the International Court of Justice or other tribunals under the authority of the United Nations Security Council.

According to the Convention, genocide cases are either under the jurisdiction of the courts of the state where they allegedly occurred or an international tribunal whose jurisdiction has been accepted by the contracting states.

No state, organization or individual has the authority to arbitrarily determine that another state has committed genocide, Elijan Anayat said.

The "Uyghur tribunal", created by a few individuals with ulterior motives, has no authority or rights to hold any "hearings", let alone to attempt to bring charges related to an extremely serious international crime, he said.

"Such an act is not only a serious stain on international law but also a blatant affront to all victims of genocide in history," he said.

Xu said the so-called witnesses and victims are just a few "actors "who are in fact active separatists, liars or criminals.

One of the scheduled witnesses is Dolkun Isa, head of the "World Uyghur Congress". According to Yalqun Yaqup, deputy director-general of the Xinjiang Public Security Department, Dolkun Isa has long spread rumors about Xinjiang internationally.

In recent years, he has turned himself into a so-called victim of a "reeducation camp" and made up lies about his family, claiming that they were imprisoned and that his mother died in such a "camp".

However, his mother died in May 2018 at a local hospital because of endometrial cancer and chronic leukemia. During her battle with the diseases, her relatives stayed by her side the whole time and doctors tried their best to treat her, Yalqun Yaqup said.

Dolkun Isa left the country in 1994 and joined the East Turkestan organization. Instead of being a "victim", he is identified as a terrorist by the Chinese government. He established the "East Turkestan Justice Party" in 1993 and its 155 members organized a large number of terrorist activities.

Police records show that the group attacked innocent people in June 1993 in Wushi county, Aksu prefecture, and carried out five successive explosions and stabbings in July 1994 at several locations in Aksu.

Another example is Sayragul Sautbay. She initially claimed that she had been a teacher at one "reeducation camp", but later claimed she had been detained, tortured, subject to medical experiments and forced to eat pork.

Yalqun Yaqup said the 45-year-old worked as a kindergarten head and a primary schoolteacher in Ili prefecture before leaving the country illegally in April 2018. She has never entered nor worked in a vocational training center.

Xinjiang has set up vocational education and training centers since 2014, in accordance with the law, to offer vocational training and deradicalization courses to people influenced by religious extremism and terrorism.

By October 2019, all the trainees who studied in the centers had graduated.

Sayragul Sautbay is also suspected of a series of crimes, Yalqun Yaqup said. In addition to illegal border crossing, she applied twice for loans of 470,000 yuan ($73,370) from a local credit cooperative with a forged real estate purchase contract, forged endorser's signatures, fabricated other documents and still owes a debt of 398,000 yuan.

She called herself a doctor but she only attended a nursing class. When she worked as the kindergarten head, she also took advantage of her position by embezzling her fellow colleagues' bonuses, Yalqun Yaqup said.

Xu said the goal of the "tribunal "is to define the vocational training centers as "concentration camps "and link the education and vocational training to "genocide".

"These lies are simply untenable and the plots of the hostile forces are doomed to fail," he added.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
For (Black people) as children and teenagers to go to school  a place where were supposed to learn and have freedom of expression  and to be sent home or told that something about us that is God-given is a problem or is against the rules is entirely unacceptable in 2021, Simmons said in an interview last week.
The government is looking to mix-and-match vaccine doses on a trial basis and there is no concern if just in case people are getting different doses, the government's top advisor said on Thursday.

"As per the protocol, stick to the same dose of vaccine as the first one. If in case people are getting different doses there is no cause for concern, it's safe. We are thinking to mix and match (vaccine doses) on a trial basis," said Dr V K Paul, a member (Health) of Niti Aayog.

V K Paul, while addressing the media on situation in the country, said that the government is engaged with Pfizer as they have indicated the availability of a certain volume of vaccines in the coming months, possibly in July.

"They have requested indemnity against liability to all the nations. We are examining this request. There is no decision as of now," he said.

Expressing optimism that the current wave is on the decline, V K Paul said: "It is reassuring that we are on the downswing of the second wave, and it will be sustained if restrictions open up systematically as the time comes.

India has recorded 211,298 fresh in the last 24 hours. Deaths from the disease rose by 3,847. The country's total cases now stand at 27,369,093, while total fatalities are at 315,235, according to MoHFW.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Thursday told the Bombay High Court that till May 9, around 12,000 children have got infected with COVID-19 in the city.

BMC's advocate, senior counsel Anil Sakhre told a bench of Justices Amjad Sayyad and G S Kulkarni that 17 children have died due to the virus in the city so far.

The high court sought to know from the civic body what was being done to ensure that children are provided timely and adequate treatment.

Sakhre told the high court that the BMC has upgraded the health infrastructure in the city to prepare for the imminent third wave of the pandemic.

He said that the state had made special arrangements to treat children affected by COVID-19.

Only two children in the city were currently undergoing hospital treatment for the infection, he added.

"We have kept separate beds, gave adequate facilities to treat children," Sakhre told the high court.

The bench, which was hearing a bunch of public interest litigations seeking proper management of issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic, asked if the BMC had also made arrangements for the safety of the caregivers or parents accompanying such children.

"Yes, we make safety arrangements for the parents or caregivers to stay in the hospital with the children whenever required. They (parents/caregivers) will also need to be vaccinated," Sakhre said.

He said that 12 per cent of the BMC's annual budget was spent on improving the health infrastructure in the city.

The bench said, "Last time, during the May 12 hearing, 11,000 children in the city had been affected. Now that number has increased significantly. What is being done to ensure children are provided timely and adequate treatment?"



The high court reiterated that all municipal bodies across the state must replicate the BMC's model on tackling the pandemic.

The court also asked the Maharashtra government why BMC chief Iqbal Singh Chahal hadn't conducted a video conference with commissioners of other municipal bodies and shared the "Mumbai Model.

"Our only anxiety is the successful Mumbai Model should reach to all corporations in Maharashtra," the high court said.

It will continue hearing the PILs on June 2.

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The medical expertise, equipment and approach needed to treat with Covid-19 is unique and this is a challenge in India where the health infrastructure has been hit by decades of underfunding and neglect, say experts. Vaccination against the virus too is necessary for but a host of complex issues need to be resolved first, they say.

The Centre and state governments are increasingly stressing on preparedness to deal with paediatric Covid care: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a meeting with local government officials on May 20, 2021, urged them to collect data on how Covid-19 is affecting Maharashtra has set up a state task force focussed on the infection among children and Delhi government is planning one as well.

So far, there is no science nor are there data to back widespread fears that children will be hit more severely in the anticipated third wave of the pandemic. Infections among children have been mild, and even severe cases among them tend to be treatable, IndiaSpend reported on May 23, 2021. It is also likely that the number of cases among children in the second surge is linked to the sheer number of cases in a short span, said doctors.

What can be done to make paediatric care for Covid-19 more efficient? Experts from the fields of paediatrics and immunology pointed out that children are vulnerable to Covid-19 in unique ways and need special and different attention when they are infected. This means child-friendly care facilities, infrastructure and treatment approaches, as we explain later.

Experts also believe that with about 40% of India's population aged under 19, children have to be seriously considered for Covid-19 vaccination. The Indian government has announced that Bharat Biotech, the company manufacturing the Covaxin vaccine, will be beginning phase 2 and phase 3 clinical trials among children aged 2-18 years in the next two weeks. In the United States of America and Canada, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine has been approved for children aged 12 to 15. This vaccine is not approved in India for children or adults.





ALSO READ: India starts preparation to make Covid-19 care safe for children

While Covid is milder in children, the treatment options for them are also fewer: The government issued and updated its clinical management protocol for adults with Covid-19 on May 19, 2021. On April 29, 2021, it issued a protocol for children. Many of the Covid-19 drugs tested for efficacy in adults have not been tested enough for their use in children. For example, the paediatric protocol notes that there are "limited data'' on the use of drugs such as remdesivir on children.

Focus on children: Courts, governments

Over the last month, there has been increased focus on ways in which the pandemic is affecting children. Early in May, Justice S. Ravindra Bhat took cognisance of the vulnerability of children at a meeting of the Supreme Court's Juvenile Justice Committee with United Nations Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF). The committee discussed issues such as children being orphaned when both parents die of Covid-19 or not having access to and supervision when their parents are hospitalised with the disease. Justice Bhat also sought that parents of young children or those who work with children be vaccinated on priority basis.

Also at a hearing in the Supreme Court this month, Justice D.Y. Chandrachud said that the central government needs to prepare for the third wave of Covid-19 and keep a special focus on the needs of children, including vaccinating them.

The Maharashtra government set up a paediatric task force for Covid-19 and is looking to set up more specialised units for the treatment of sick and newborn infants, install ventilators better suited for children and draft a treatment protocol for the young. The task force has submitted its report to the state government.

To gear up paediatricians for any Covid-19 challenges, and also to calm the anxieties of parents and school administrations, the Maharashtra government and the Indian Academy of Paediatrics will be developing special guidelines, Samir Dalwai, a paediatrician and a member of the task force, told IndiaSpend.

"We have been organising training and orientation sessions online for thousands of paediatricians around the country. Even the chief minister, Uddhav Thackeray, has attended some of these, to give the message that this is serious and that the government as well as the medical community should take it seriously," said Dalwai.

The paediatric task force set up by the state government will be looking into finalising guidelines for the clinical management of children, training paediatricians and analysing the existing infrastructure for treating kids and what may be needed, said Dalwai.

In Delhi too, the state government has decided to set up a special task force to focus on Covid among children and the government-run Lok Nayak Jai Prakash hospital has added six paediatric ventilators to the existing 15, as per a May 21, 2021 report in The Times Of India.



ALSO READ: Experts stress on strategies to tackle Covid among kids with co-morbidities

'Nothing to show children at greater risk'

Up to 80-90% of children who are infected with SARS-CoV-2 will be asymptomatic, and only about 1-3% of those who are symptomatic will need intensive care treatment, according to the Indian government's clinical protocol for management of Covid-19 in children. These numbers are far smaller than those seen adults, according to the Indian Academy of Paediatrics.

Some of the fears about the susceptibility of children to SARS-CoV-2 stems from the discovery of the newly identified variant, B.1.1.7. But these fears may be premature, shows existing evidence. A February 2021 paper in The Lancet analysing this variant's effects said that while more children had been admitted to hospitals in the United Kingdom between November 2020 and January 2021 compared to March 2020 and May 2020, this could be due to a higher overall caseload. It said that there was "no evidence of more severe disease having occurred in children and young people".

A lot more research needs to be done on this variant but investigations so far do not indicate that children are particularly vulnerable to it, said Maria Van Kerkhove, an official at the World Health Organization (WHO).

But public comments--that children may be more affected in future waves of Covid-19--have stoked anxiety. For instance, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal tweeted this week that India's third wave would be very dangerous for children.

While some medical experts warn of rising Covid cases among children, others say there is no evidence to establish this. "The current evidence indicates that severe illness in infected children remains much less common than among the elderly this year, just as it was last year. I do not think there is any evidence so far that children are being affected more or worse this year," said Satyajit Rath, immunologist and former scientist at the National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi.

There are questions too about the warnings about the third wave and its impact on children. "People have been making very loose comments about a third wave affecting children more. There is no epidemiological basis for this so far, and it is just conjecture," said Tanu Singhal, a paediatrician and infectious disease specialist at the Kokilaben Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. "Yes, there might be a third wave. And by that time, a wide section of the adult population may be vaccinated. Hence it may seem like more children are being affected, but this may only be in relation to people affected in the third wave, and not an overall indication that children are at a greater risk."

Shortage of paediatricians, ICUs for children

Experts pointed out to IndiaSpend that all health infrastructure in India needs to be ramped up given the system's chronic under-funding and neglect. However, the medical expertise needed to treat children as well as the equipment in intensive care units (ICUs) need to be different for children, they added.

"The equipment for children in hospitals has to be paediatric-friendly. The sizes are very different for children--an adult may come in an average size range, but as paediatricians we may be treating a newborn infant weighing just 600 gm, or a child weighing up to 100 kg," said Jesal Sheth, paediatrician at Fortis Hospital, Mulund. For example, someone trained in dealing only with adults will find it hard to intubate a child, she said. "Furthermore, children may also be non-verbal and won't be able to describe their illness. So only a trained paediatrician can recognise from non-verbal communication, what the child may need."

So far, the health infrastructure for children has not been overwhelmed in either the first or second wave, said Sheth. But the country will have to keep preparing for any future situation where this could happen, she said.

"Paediatric ICUs would be useful, especially because severe COVID-19 in children can take somewhat special different forms than in adults," said Rath. There is already a "sad and glaring lack of public health facilities in India, both for adults and children. So this will also become a major problem in effective treatment of the children who will become severely affected", he said.

There is an 82% shortage of paediatricians in India's primary health centres, according to a parliamentary standing committee report in 2015. Up to 62.8% of positions for paediatricians in community health centres were vacant, according to the same report. This shortage fits into a larger context of an overall shortage of doctors in India--while the WHO's recommendation is a doctor-population ratio of 1:1,000, India reports 1:1,674.

There should be emergency-rehearsals for crisis management, said Sheth, where work-flows can be set and practised to deal with any emergency in the future. "These rehearsals should look into issues like, what do health workers need to do when a child is brought to a hospital for Covid-19 treatment, what preliminary treatment can be started, how to monitor them and when to refer them to further treatment," she explained.

'Long path' to vaccinations for children

Up to 40% of India's population is aged under 19 years, according to the 2011 census. This is projected to fall to 34.6% by 2021. Currently the government's COVID-19 vaccination drive is limited to those over 18 years of age. This implies that about half the country is eligible and trying to get vaccinated, and another half is not yet old enough for immunisation.

"Yes I would recommend vaccination for children at the earliest, once its safety profile is established. About 40% of India is aged under 18 and we cannot leave them unvaccinated," said Dalwai, adding that vaccinations of children will need to happen at some point so that schools can be safely re-opened.

Rath welcomed the announcement of clinical trials of Covaxin for children. "We should definitely start trials for children and should have started it earlier. Given the evidence that has already come in all over the world on adult Covid-19 vaccination, starting formal trials in children is safe and the right thing to do," he said. However, the path ahead will not be short--trials have to be completed, regulatory approval has to be given and the overall vaccine shortage has to be addressed, he said.
India is in touch with the governments of Dominica, and Antigua and Barbuda to bring back fugitive businessman from the Caribbean region, sources said on Thursday.

Choksi, who had recently fled from Antigua and Barbuda, was captured in neighbouring Dominica after an Interpol Yellow Notice was issued against him, Antiguan media reported on Wednesday.

The sources said India was in touch with Antigua and Barbuda on the matter and now contact has been established with the government of Dominica.

"We are in touch with them. Our interest in getting fugitives like Choksi and others remains strong," said a source, adding the focus has been to bring them back to the country at the earliest.

It is learnt that probe agencies are pursuing the matter of bringing back Choksi to India.

Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne said he has asked Dominica to hand the diamantaire over to India directly.

After news of Choksi's arrest in Dominica came on Tuesday night (local time), Browne told media that he has given "clear instructions" to the Dominican authorities to repatriate Choksi to India.

"We asked them not to repatriate him to Antigua. He needs to return to India where he can face the criminal charges levelled against him," Antigua News Room, a media outlet, quoted Browne's interaction with journalists in Antigua and Barbuda.

Choksi is wanted in a Rs 13,500-crore loan fraud in the Punjab Bank.

He was last seen going for dinner in his car in Antigua and Barbuda on Sunday.

His staff had reported him missing.

Choksi and his nephew Nirav Modi allegedly siphoned off Rs 13,500 crore of public money from the state-run Punjab Bank (PNB) using fraudulent letters of undertaking.

Nirav Modi, lodged in a London jail, is contesting his extradition to India after repeated denial of his bail by courts.
India is witnessing a downswing in the second wave of COVID-19 and hopefully it will be sustained even when restrictions are gently, systematically and cautiously relaxed, the government said on Thursday.

Addressing a press conference, NITI Aayog member (Health) V K Paul said the country continues to note stabilisation of second wave in most parts, both by the number of cases and positivity rate, and despite a sustained and high overall testing coverage which is reassuring.

We are achieving this in face of very significant restrictions in most states in addition to other tools and operations, including testing and COVID appropriate behaviour and vaccination efforts. Nonetheless, it is reassuring that we are on the downswing of second wave and we do hope and believe that it will be sustained even when restrictions are gently, systematically and cautiously opened up, he said.

Joint Secretary Lav Agarwal said a steady decline in new COVID-19 cases has been recorded in India for the last 20 days, with 24 states witnessing a dip in active cases since the last week.

He also said that while COVID-19 testing has increased manifold, a steady decline in weekly COVID-19 positivity rate has been seen since the last three weeks.

Paul said the vaccination pace should pick up in July.

We have a total of 51.6 crore doses, a large proportion of it is available and has to be used in an efficient manner even as we build our efforts to build our stockpile in the time to come. I would like to state that Bharat Biotech which started with 90 lakh capacity is ramping up and it is well within our expectation that it can reach ten times the production level to 10 crore per month in the next few months, he said.

Paul said similarly the Serum Institute of India is also ramping up vaccine production from 6.5 crore per month to 11 crore or even more in months to come. Other vaccines in the pipeline are also moving close to increase supplies such as Sputnik, Zydus and Genova vaccines so steady progress is being made.

We are also reaching out to international manufacturers, in particular Pfizer, for making vaccine available now that they have shown interest and indicated possibility of vaccine to be spared for India, he said.

The official said the government has been making significant efforts in reaching out to foreign manufacturers and also making intense relentless efforts to increase the production and supply of make in India' vaccines.

He also noted that any significant adverse effect is unlikely if the second dose of a different COVID-19 vaccine is administered, but reaching a firm opinion on this will need more scrutiny and understanding.

He, however, clarified that both doses administered to an individual should be of the same vaccine as per the existing protocol.

On whether there is a need for antigen testing after getting vaccinated as tests on some people who have taken both the doses showed no antibodies in their bodies, Paul said there is no need for an antibody test after taking COVID-19 vaccine.

Antibody is just one measure of immunity. Perhaps in the medium to long term, it is cell mediated immune response which is more critical and important. Antibody presence is only one measure. Also antibodies decline by time and they also come up not just specific to vaccines but also based on individual predilections.

So when vaccines are administered on a large scale as a large public health response, an attempt is being made to create an overall situation so that as a community and individually we are protected. But individually we are not protected 100 per cent, he said.

Paul said in a vaccination campaign where we want to immunise everyone against a particular disease, take two doses. If there is a need for a booster dose it will be told. There are studies that are going on...Covaxin trial is going on... whether it should be taken after six months or not.

On Pfizer seeking indemnity, Paul said, "Yes we are engaged with Pfizer and they have indicated the availability of a certain amount of vaccine in the coming months, possibly starting in July and we are looking at what their expectations from the government are and they are looking at what our expectations from them are.

They have requested indemnity to all the nations including the country of origin. We are examining this request and will take a decision in the larger interest of people and on merits. This is under discussion and there is no decision as of now, Paul said.

In response to a question, Paul said it has been observed that vaccines developed in other countries a large part of those vaccines were supplied to the same country.

So the US made vaccine went in a big way to the US and it is nothing surprising because when we look upon all vaccine manufacturers they also unhesitatingly offered the vaccines to our nation, he said.

Paul said clearly the countries of origin have been an important priority for producers of vaccines.

On how vaccine doses has been given to Delhi, Agarwal said as per available data, Delhi has been given 45.46 lakh doses by the Government of India free of cost and under direct procurement, Delhi has procured 8.17 lakh and private hospitals have procured 9.04 lakh and a total 52.25 lakh doses have been administered so far.

Responding to another question on the recent New York Times report on COVID-19 toll in India, Agarwal termed it completely baseless not backed by any evidence.

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Fugitive Indian-born jeweller has been captured in Dominica and will likely be repatriated to India, Gaston Brown, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, told Reuters partner ANI, days after he went missing from the Caribbean nation.

Police in Antigua and Barbuda had been questioning relatives and associates of Choksi, a main defendant in India's largest bank fraud case, and had requested international police coordination agency Interpol to issue a global alert, after he went missing on Sunday.

"We will not accept him back," Browne told ANI. "He made a monumental error by skipping the island."

Browne said it was likely Choksi entered Dominica illegally by boat.

Browne said the Dominican government and law enforcement agencies were co-operating and that Antigua was in talks with the Indian government for his repatriation.

Browne's office did not respond to a request from comment and Reuters was not able to immediately contact Dominican authorities for comment.

Choksi's lawyer in India did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Indian federal police have filed fraud charges against Choksi, his nephew, Nirav Modi, and others in connection with their suspected involvement in fraudulent transactions that led to losses of about $2 billion for India's Punjab National Bank (PNB).

PNB in 2018 alleged that a few rogue employees had issued fake bank guarantees over several years to help jewellery groups - controlled by Modi and Choksi - raise funds in foreign credit.

Modi and Choksi left India before the fraud came to light but have denied any wrongdoing. Modi was arrested in London in 2019 and is fighting extradition to India. Choksi has been living in Antigua and Barbuda.

An Indian official told Reuters in 2019 that Choksi had secured a passport from that country, where wealthy foreigners can become citizens in exchange for investing there.

But the official said India still considered Choksi to be an Indian citizen and the Indian government was pushing for his extradition.

It was not immediately clear why Choksi went to Dominica but Browne had told Antigua's Parliament on Tuesday that Choksi was fighting two cases in the country relating to his extradition and his citizenship.

(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.)
Claiming that several myths around Indias Covid-19 vaccination program were doing the rounds, the Indian governments think-tank NITI Aayog, on Thursday, sought to explain the Centres efforts towards ramping up the supply of vaccines.



These myths are arising due to distorted statements, half-truths and blatant lies, said.





Addressing the myth that the Centre hasn't done enough to buy vaccines from abroad, claimed that the government has been engaging with international manufacturers since mid-2020.

Multiple rounds of discussions have happened with Pfizer, J&J & Moderna. The government offered all help to have them supply or manufacture their vaccines in India. However, their vaccines are not available in free supply, the statement read.



We need to understand that buying vaccines internationally is not similar to buying off-the-shelf items. Vaccines are in limited supply globally, and companies have their own priorities, game plans and compulsions in allocating finite stocks, added.



Earlier this week, the joint secretary in the health ministry Lav Agarwal conceded that while the Indian government was trying to buy vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna, the order books of these companies were full with several nations ahead of India, waiting for the delivery of their ordered supplies. Medical experts have claimed that the Indian government was too late in initiating negotiations with global manufacturers, leading to a slowing pace of vaccinations in India since April.



Addressing another myth that the Centre hasn't approved vaccines available globally, NITI Aayog claimed the Centre has eased the entry of vaccines, sometimes even waiving the requirement of bridging trials. No application of any foreign manufacturer for approval is pending with the drugs controller, the statement read.



In February, the expert body under Indias drug regulator had declined to recommend emergency use authorisation for Pfizers mRNA vaccine. Pfizer subsequently withdrew its application. However, as Covid cases swelled in India, on April 13, the government waived the condition of phase 2 and 3 clinical trials in the country for vaccines cleared by the US, EU, UK and Japanese regulators and listed by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The NITI Aayog further sought to dispel the myth that the Centre hasnt sufficiently ramped up the domestic production of vaccines. It said 3 more companies will produce Bharat Biotechs indigenous Covid-19 vaccine, Covaxin.



Covaxin production by Bharat Biotech is being increased from under 10 million per month to 100 million per month by October. The three PSUs will together aim to produce up to 40 million doses by December. With constant encouragement of the Government, Serum Institute is ramping up Covishield production of 65 million doses per month to 110 million doses per month, the statement read.



The NITI Aayog added that the Centre didnt abdicate its responsibility of supplying vaccines to states and union territories. It said the Centre had run the vaccination program from January to April and it was well-administered. But states which had not even achieved good coverage of healthcare workers and frontline workers in 3 months wanted to open up the process of vaccination and wanted more decentralisation. Health is a state subject & the liberalised vaccine policy was a result of the incessant requests made by the states to give them more power, it said.



"States know our vaccine production capacity. When they said they want flexibility & say in vaccine procurement, a new system was brought in-Centre will procure 50% of vaccines produced domestically, for states for free, for 45+ group," VK Paul, member (health) in NITI Aayog and chair of the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19, was quoted as saying by ANI.



The NITI Aayog said states global tenders for vaccines have given no results. This reaffirms what we have been telling the states from day one: that vaccines are in short supply in the world and it is difficult to procure them at short notice.



Meanwhile, the Delhi government has claimed that while Pfizer and Moderna had refused to supply vaccines to individual state governments in India, the makers of Russias Sputnik V vaccine have agreed to supply the vaccine to Delhi. The global tender floated by Mumbais civic governing body, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has also reportedly received eight offers, including from Pfizer/AstraZeneca and Sputnik.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday extended the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions till June 15, saying that the curbs have helped ease the pandemic situation a little.

The government had announced the existing restrictions for 15 days from May 16 following a huge surge in the number of cases. The announcement for extension of the curbs came three days before they were scheduled to come to an end.

"The Covid-19 restrictions in the state will continue till June 15. This is not a lockdown or a curfew. We will strictly follow the restrictions.

"It's a relief to see that the ongoing restrictions have helped in easing the situation a little," Banerjee told reporters at the state secretariat 'Nabanna'.

She allowed the jute industry to work with 40 per cent workforce in place of the existing 30 per cent.

"We will see that the state's economy is not disturbed," Banerjee said.

Essential services will continue operating while following protocols, the chief minister said.

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Petrol price on Thursday crossed the Rs 100-a-litre mark in Thane district of Maharashtra, while it was hovering a tad below that level in Mumbai, after were raised again.

Petrol price was increased by 24 paise per litre and diesel by 29 paise a litre on Thursday, according to a price notification of state-owned fuel retailers.

The increase - 14th this month - took petrol and diesel prices to an all-time high across the country.

The price of petrol, which had already crossed the Rs 100-mark in several cities in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, breached the psychological barrier in the Thane district of Maharashtra on Thursday.

In Thane, petrol now comes for Rs 100.06 a litre and diesel comes for Rs 91.99 per litre.

In neighbouring Mumbai, petrol price increased to Rs 99.94 per litre, while diesel rates soared to Rs 91.87.

differ from state to state depending on the incidence of local taxes such as VAT and freight charges. Rajasthan levies the highest value-added tax (VAT) on petrol in the country, followed by Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.

In Delhi, petrol price rose to Rs 93.84 a litre and diesel to Rs 84.61.

This is the 14th increase in prices since May 4, when state-owned oil firms ended an 18-day hiatus in rate revision they observed during assembly elections in states like West Bengal.

Oil companies revise rates of petrol and diesel daily based on the average price of benchmark fuel in the international market in the preceding 15-days, and foreign exchange rates.

Sri Ganganagar district of Rajasthan had the costliest petrol and diesel in the country at Rs 104.67 per litre and Rs 97.49 a litre, respectively.

In 14 increases, petrol price has risen by Rs 3.28 per litre and diesel by Rs 3.88.

(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.)
General Secretary on Wednesday slammed the Central government alleging that it worked harder on suppressing this data than it did in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.

Putting out a report titled on Twitter, Gandhi said: "We will never know the true number of COVID-related deaths as the government has worked harder on suppressing this data than they did fighting the pandemic."

The daily COVID-19 positivity rate in India has reduced and now stands at 9.42 per cent, while the recoveries continue to outnumber the new cases for the 13th consecutive day, said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, 2,08,921 new COVID-19 cases and 4,157 deaths were reported in a 24-hour period in the country.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Gun violence wont stop until we put a stop to it with common sense gun laws. Too many lives have been cut short by gun violence, especially here in Illinois. She said that in too many instances the shootings have ended the lives of Black and Latino residents. She pointed to a recently released study showing Illinois ranked fifth in the nation  tying with Indiana  when it comes to Black homicide victims.
The Bombay High Court on Thursday directed the Maharashtra government to investigate how celebrities and politicians procured anti-COVID-19 drugs and injections to help those in need when the same were available only in scarce quantities across the country.

A vacation bench of Justices Amjad Sayyad and G S Kulkarni said such celebrities might have had the noble intention of helping others, but only the Union government was authorised to allocate those drugs.

These people (celebrities) might not realise that they are acting in defiance of the legal set up, it noted.

Therefore, an inquiry must be conducted to rule out issues such as illegal procurement, hoarding, black-marketing and providing spurious drugs.

The court's order came after Advocate General Ashutosh Kumbhakoni, who appeared for the Maharashtra government, submitted that the state had issued show cause notices to Mumbai Congress MLA Zeeshan Siddique, actor Sonu Sood's charity foundation, and some others over the matter.

Kumbhakoni said Siddique and Sood had sent their replies saying they neither purchased nor stocked the medicines and injections.

"They said they had only acted as facilitators in some cases after paying the cost of the medicines, and in some cases without paying for them. They said that they got in touch with manufacturers," Kumbhakoni told the HC.

He said notices had also been issued to Cipla and other manufacturers for allegedly having supplied Remdesivir drug to celebrities.

The HC, however, asked how was it possible that celebrities got in touch with manufacturers to get the medicines when the drugs were to be allotted only through the central government.

"Can your authorities accept this reply? Is this believable?" the HC asked.

Kumbhakoni then said the state's inquiry into the matter was still going on.

"We will take the probe to its logical end," he said.

The Union government's counsel, Additional Solicitor General Anil Singh, told the bench that the Centre has already questioned the manufacturers of Remdesivir and other anti- COVID-19 drugs and they had denied having supplied them to any politician or celebrity.

The court noted that the Sood Charity Foundation said in its reply that it had contacted Cipla and other manufacturers.

"Let the state take note of your (UOI) affidavit and carry on with its probe. If celebrities say they got it from manufacturers, but manufacturers deny, then this needs to be investigated," the HC said.

The court said the celebrities and politicians in question might have had good intentions, but they could not help citizens while defying a legal set up.

"These people (celebrities) might not realise that they are acting in defiance of the entire set up, the legal system," the HC said.

The court was hearing a bunch of public interest litigations (PILs), seeking proper management of issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including streamlining the allocation of drugs and injections.

Advocate Rajesh Inamdar, counsel for one of the pleas, told the HC that several such celebrities were even providing drugs for mucormycosis, or black fungus, a serious infection found in several COVID-19 patients.

The HC, however, said all of these issues were for the state to look into.

"They are not before us as parties so we can't pass any orders against them. But it is the state government's responsibility to caution them, to take undertakings from them," the HC said.

"Let the state inquire into all this. All those who want to help, let them help through legal channels," it said.

The HC will continue hearing in the matter next week.

(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 has advanced further in more parts of southwest and eastcentral and conditions are favourable for its onset over around May 31, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Thursday.

The Arabian Sea as well as the witnessed two cyclones - Tauktae and Yaas - over the two weeks. Several parts of the country have witnessed an intense activity due to these two circulations.

" has further advanced into some more parts of Maldives-Comorin area, southwest and eastcentral Bay of Bengal, most parts of Southeast and some parts of westcentral Bay of Bengal today the May 27 morning.

"Conditions are likely to become favourable for onset of over around May 31," the IMD said.

The normal onset date for the monsoon's arrival over is June 1. This also marks the commencement of four-month season from June to September.

The IMD has predicted a normal monsoon this year.

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Delhi Police, on Thursday, slammed social media giant for the latters statement where it complained about the use of intimidation tactics by the police.



These statements are not only mendacious but designed to impede a lawful inquiry by a private enterprise, ANI quoted as saying.



 registered preliminary inquiry at the complaint filed by the representative of the Congress (INC). Hence, efforts by that portray it as an FIR filed at the behest of the Government of India is wholly and completely incorrect," added.



On 24 May 2021, days after had flagged posts by leaders of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) alleging a Congress toolkit to malign India as manipulated media, a team of Delhi Polices special cell  working directly under the Union Home Ministry  visited Twitter Indias Delhi and Gurugram offices to ostensible serve a notice.



Experts have since pointed out that legal notices are usually delivered electronically through email. The political opposition slammed the move as an intimidation tactic by the central government.



Earlier, Indias Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) had objected to Twitter labelling tweets by BJP members as manipulated media, asking the platform to remove the label as the matter was under investigation.



Earlier on Thursday, responding to claims that it had failed to meet the 26 May deadline for complying with Indias new guidelines for digital media intermediaries, Twitter said it will strive to comply with applicable law in India to keep its service available in the country, but will "advocate for changes to elements of these regulations that inhibit free, open public conversation."



"Right now, we are concerned by recent events regarding our employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people we serve," Twitter said in a statement.



Twitter declared that the toolkit was Manipulated Media, this clearly shows that it was acquainted with the facts of the case & had material information relevant to the probe. Hence, Twitter was asked to join the inquiry to provide the information it possesses, Delhi Police added.



Its latest statements are devised to seek dubious sympathy when they themselves not only refuse to comply with the law of the land but also claim possession of material evidence but refuse to share it with legal authority duly recognised, the police said.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) on Thursday responded to Twitter's statement expressing concern over the "potential threat to freedom of expression in India and intimidation tactics by the police".

The government told the social media giant to "stop beating around the bush and comply with the laws of the land".

The government said it strongly controverts the claims made by today in its press release. "India has a glorious tradition of free speech and democratic practices dating back centuries."

"We condemn Twitter's statement as baseless, false and an attempt to defame India to hide their follies."

Press Release by Ministry of Electronics and IT in response to the statements made by Inc. pic.twitter.com/hQxCGuoEaG  Ministry of Electronics & IT (@GoI_MeitY) May 27, 2021

In a fiery statement, the government said, "Twitters statement is an attempt to dictate its terms to the worlds largest democracy. Through its actions and deliberate defiance, seeks to undermine Indias legal system.

Earlier during the day, Twitter said it will comply with Indian laws but was concerned by the use of intimidation tactics by the police.

Twitter argued that the escalated content constituted legitimate free speech and yet, the platform was compelled to withhold in response to a non-compliance notice as not doing so poses penal consequences with many risks for Twitter employees.

The platform said it has been in regular dialogue with the to explain the nature of the content and why it should continue to be available on the service.

"Law making and policy formulations is the sole prerogative of the sovereign and Twitter is just a social media platform and it has no locus standi on dictating what should India's legal policy framework be," the government further said.

Reacting strongly to the allegations of threat to freedom of expression in India, the said, "the government respects the right of people to ask questions and also criticise on the social media platforms including on Twitter. However, the only instance of scuttling free speech on Twitter is by Twitter itself and its opaque policies, as a result of which people's accounts are suspended and tweets deleted arbitrarily."

The government assured representatives of social media companies including Twitter that they will always remain safe in India and there is no threat to their personal safety and security.

Twitter has urged the Ministry of Electronics and IT to publish these standard operating protocols on procedural aspects of compliance for public consultation and has sought a minimum of three months extension in order to implement the rules.

The social media giant said it continues to accept grievances from users and law enforcement via its existing grievance redressal channel.





The government claims new IT rules empower the ordinary users who become victims of defamation, morphed images, sexual abuse and the whole range of other abusive content in blatant violation of law, to seek redress.

"These Rules were finalised after widest possible consultations including with representatives of social media platforms."
West Bengal Chief Minister said on Thursday that she would be holding a review meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the cyclone-led devastation, during his visit to the state.

Banerjee said that the meeting will be held at Kalaikunda in Paschim Medinipur district on Friday.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi is coming here after conducting a survey of cyclone-affected areas in Odisha. He will reach Kalaikunda via Digha, and take his flight to Delhi from there. The PM will hold a review meeting with me at Kalaikunda," Banerjee told reporters at the secretariat.

The Bengal CM, along with Chief Secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay, is scheduled to undertake an aerial survey of the cyclone-hit areas in Purba Medinipur, South and North 24 Parganas on Friday.

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Malaysia's PM under pressure as anger builds on Covid surge

Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin is under fire as his decision to suspend democracy to contain the outbreak failed to yield results. Criticism about the governments approach to a worsening pandemic and accusations of double standards in enforcement of virus rules have resulted in an outpouring of anger on local social media in the past few months. Daily infections have more than doubled since Malaysia declared a state of emergency in January in order to focus on the pandemic. Covid cases and deaths reached record-highs, while the pace of the vaccination has failed to pick up. Read here

Let's look at the global statistics Global infections: 168,417,658 Global deaths: 3,498,557 Nations with most cases: US (33,190,267), India (27,369,093), Brazil (16,274,695), France (5,683,143), Turkey (5,212,123). Source: John Hopkins Research Center

Biden orders intelligence inquiry into origins of virus

Joe Biden has ordered US intelligence agencies to investigate the origins of the coronavirus, indicating that his administration takes seriously the possibility that the deadly virus was accidentally leaked from a lab, in addition to the prevailing theory that it was transmitted by an animal to humans outside a lab. The President's statement, his most public and expansive yet on the question of how the virus spread to humans, came as top health officials renewed their appeals this week for a more rigorous inquiry. Read here

Boris Johnsons former top aide paints a damning picture of UK govts pandemic response

Dominic Cummings, the former top aide to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and once the second most powerful man in UK, painted a picture of chaos, incompetence and confusion at the heart of the government in a ferociously critical account of its early handling of the Covid-19 pandemic. In more than seven hours of testimony before lawmakers, Cummings said that Johnson had initially regarded Covid-19 as a scare story and at one point had suggested that a doctor inject him with the on live television to play down the dangers to a worried public. Read here



German scientists say they can help improve vaccines to prevent blood clots

A team of German scientists said they believe they have worked out why some people given the AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson vaccines against Covid-19 develop blood clots  and claim they can tell the manufacturers how to improve the vaccine to avoid it. The blood clots are rare but troubling in the younger age group who are more at risk of clotting and less likely to experience severe Covid illness. Scientists say the key is in the adenovirus  the common cold virus that is used to deliver the spike protein of the coronavirus into the body. Read here
Chief Minister said that the state has now moved into a Covid 'safe zone'.

In a statement, he said that the state has proved the critics wrong and managed to "successfully blunt" the surge through the trace, test and treat method.

"We are now preparing for a probable third wave. In Deoria, we will work on encephalitis control along with Covid care. The rainy season, which triggers encephalitis is just months away. Gorakhpur-Basti divisions previously bore the brunt of the scourge. We have reduced the encephalitis death rate by 95 per cent and now there are hundreds of health wellness and encephalitis treatment centres, which will help control the disease," he said.

The Chief Minister added that paediatric ICUs (PICU) in district hospitals and mini-PICU in community health centres were being operationalised.

A new 20-bed PICU has been planned for Deoria and a mini-PICU in Laar assembly segment.

Adityanath who is visiting various districts to review Covid management programmes, has asked the village heads to quarantine anyone who shows symptoms of the virus.

" has emerged as the state with the most Covid tests and at the vanguard of the vaccination campaign. Till Wednesday, we have conducted 48.7 million corona tests," he said.

The Chief Minister further said that all districts in the state are being made self-sufficient in terms of oxygen and more than 300 oxygen plants are being set up.

Adityanath also stressed on the need to support work being done by surveillance committees.

The government, he said, had begun a 'Mera Gaon, Corona Mukt Gaon' initiative to ensure rural areas were free of Covid-19.

For this, monitoring committees were being strengthened to carry out identification of patients, giving them medicine kits and ensuring their quarantine.

He said that the government will also vaccinate more than the average number of people in the 45+ age-group in the coming month.

He encouraged people to get vaccinated and tested for the virus.

"Vaccination is our security shield against Covid-19 and vaccines are being administered for free by the government."

The Chief Minister also gave instruction on sanitation during the rainy season to control spread of encephalitis.

--IANS

amita/ksk/

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The row over Twitter's handling of certain messages escalated into an all-out war of words on Thursday, with the government saying the messaging platform was levelling baseless and false allegations to defame India and dictating terms to the world's largest democracy.

It started with calling the visit by Delhi Police to its offices a form of "intimidation" -- a statement which met with vociferous protests from both the government and the Delhi Police.

While the government called it "totally baseless, false and an attempt to defame India", Delhi Police said the statement was "mendacious" and designed to impede a lawful inquiry.

had marked several tweets by ruling BJP leaders on an alleged strategy document of Opposition to target the government over COVID as containing 'manipulated media', which prompted the police to visit its offices late on Monday.

said it was committed to India as a vital market, but criticised the new IT rules and regulations that it said "inhibit free, open public conversation."



It went on to express concern over the safety of its employees in India and said it will continue to be strictly guided by principles of transparency and protecting freedom of expression.

Within hours, the Delhi Police issued a strongly-worded statement saying Twitter was purporting to be both investigating and adjudicating authority and had "taken upon itself, in the garb of terms of service, to adjudicate the truth or otherwise of documents in public space".

The reference being of the alleged 'toolkit' -- the one that Twitter, which uses fact-checking websites, tagged as 'manipulated media'. The Delhi Police is investigating it on a complaint by Congress of the 'toolkit' being fake.

Delhi Police said it had gone to the Twitter office to ask its India head to join the investigation as the messaging platform seemed to have information based on which it declared the 'toolkit' manipulated media.

Shortly thereafter, the Ministry of Electronics and IT issued a statement saying India has a glorious tradition of free speech and democratic practices dating back centuries.

"Twitter's statement is an attempt to dictate its terms to the world's largest democracy. Through its actions and deliberate defiance, Twitter seeks to undermine India's legal system," it asserted.

Stating that Twitter has refused to comply with new digital rules requiring identification of the originator of a flagged message and appointing grievance redressal officers, the ministry said the purported commitment of the US-based firm to India not only sounds hallow but completely self-serving.

"Twitter needs to stop beating around the bush and comply with the laws of the land," the ministry said without saying what action it could take in case non-compliance continued.

It went on to highlight previously raised concerns around certain locations in Ladakh being shown as part of China, alleged reluctance to block content around a "genocide plan" during farmers' protest, rampant proliferation of fake and harmful content against India, and no action being taken on a type of coronavirus being called the Indian variant.

The government, the statement said, "condemns the unfortunate statement issued by Twitter as totally baseless, false and attempt to defame India to hide their own follies."



"Twitter has a large user base in India, it earns significant revenue from its Indian operations but is also the most reluctant to appoint an India-based grievance redressal officer and mechanism, chief compliance officer and nodal officer to whom its own users can complain when they are subjected to offensive tweets," it said.

It went on to say that Twitter employees are safe in India and there is no threat to their personal safety and security.

In its first official statement after the Delhi Police visited the company's offices in Delhi and Gurugram to serve notice to its country managing director about the investigation into the 'manipulated media' tag, Twitter said it will continue to be strictly guided by principles of transparency and protecting freedom of expression.

The company said it will "strive" to comply with applicable law in India to keep its service available in the country but will "advocate for changes to elements of these regulations that inhibit free, open public conversation."



"Right now, we are concerned by recent events regarding our employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people we serve," Twitter said in a statement.

"We, alongside many in civil society in India and around the world, have concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police in response to enforcement of our global Terms of Service, as well as with core elements of the new IT rules."



In the new digital rules, social media companies like Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter have been asked to identify within 36 hours the originator of a flagged message as well as conduct additional due diligence, including the appointment of a chief compliance officer, nodal contact person and resident grievance officer.

"We will continue our constructive dialogue with the Indian government and believe it is critical to adopt a collaborative approach. It is the collective responsibility of elected officials, industry and civil society to safeguard the interests of the public," Twitter said.

According to Twitter, the company is particularly concerned about the requirement to make an individual (the compliance officer) criminally liable for content on the platform, the requirements for proactive monitoring, and the blanket authority to seek information about its users.

This, it said, represents dangerous overreach that is inconsistent with open, democratic principles.

Twitter further said it continues to accept grievances from users and law enforcement via its existing grievance redressal channel.

(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.)
NAACP officials on Wednesday denounced what they called continued at an warehouse construction site in Connecticut where an eighth noose was found, despite additional security measures having been added last weekend.

Another noose was found at the site in Windsor on Wednesday morning, the day of a scheduled meeting between workers and NAACP officials about safety and security, said Scot X. Esdaile, president of the Connecticut NAACP organization.

We have a serious problem in America and it hasn't gone away, Esdaile said.

It's deplorable. It's sickening. It's a sick mindset that Black people have to fight against.

closed the site over the weekend, saying it was putting additional security measures in place after a seventh noose was found last week. The company closed the site again Wednesday to allow the FBI to investigate after the new noose was found under some electrical materials, spokesperson Kelly Nantel said in a statement.

Hate, or discrimination have no place in our society and are certainly not tolerated in any Amazon workplace," Nantel said. "We will continue to work with all levels of law enforcement as well as our development partners, to hold the perpetrators accountable and ensure that all members of our community feel valued, respected and safe.

A message was left Wednesday for Windsor police, who also have denounced the nooses and called them potential hate crimes.

Windsor police have been working with the FBI and state police to try to identify those responsible for the nooses, the first of which was found at the site last month. A $100,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the identification of the culprits.

Gov. Ned Lamont called the nooses racist provocation of the worst type.

I can tell you that I'm talking to Amazon, the Democratic governor said at an unrelated news conference about the coronavirus Wednesday. We're doing everything we can from a security point of view, everything we can from a law enforcement point of view. But I can't change people's hearts and it just breaks my heart that this is still going on.

(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.)
Its increasingly likely that banks will face new capital requirements that will reflect how exposed their loan books are to

That is the logical next step, Janine Dow, a senior director for sustainable at Fitch Ratings, said in an interview. Because once you size a problem, then you identify the risk. And as a regulator, you cant just leave an emerging risk exposed.



Such a requirement would mark a significant expansion of new rules that the financial industry, particularly in Europe, is now facing amid a race against time to prevent an environmental catastrophe. The goal is to force banks to channel money away from those corners of the economy that pollute and toward businesses that have committed to lower carbon emissions.

For now, banks remain a long way off that goal. Since the Paris Climate Agreement was struck in 2015, lenders globally have poured more than $3.6 trillion into fossil fuel financing, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Only this year has green bond and loan financing taken the lead.

The data



According to Fitch, the financial industry is well aware that bank capital requirements will soon reflect climate risk, even though regulators themselves havent yet spelled out their intentions.

Regulators havent been more explicit yet because they dont have the data to justify a clear approach, said Monsur Hussain, a senior director for financial institutions at Fitch.

But if you read between the lines of the European Central Banks November guidelines on climate-related and environmental risks for banks, that is the direction of travel, he said.

In the guidelines, the ECB instructs banks to consider their sensitivity to climate risk when weighing how much capital they need beyond minimum requirements; with this so-called Pillar 2 exercise, mandatory requirements have already made landfall, Hussain said.

The only question is, how long will it take to make landfall on Pillar 1, which represent banks minimum requirements and is the key metric by which regulators decide whether a bank lives or dies, Hussain said. Thats really where I think the rubber will hit the road.



In terms of how far were away from that pillar 1 designation, I think were still about three years away, he said.

Cautious watchdogs



The key hurdle now is ensuring that banks get the data they need from companies to enable them to assess their climate risks. And thats where even regulators are sounding the alarm.

The issue which concerns me most right now is whether the non-financial sector is capable of delivering the information to the financial sector which the financial sector demands and which it will have to have given the whole disclosure and taxonomy apparatus which is being implemented, Jesper Berg, the director general of the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority, said in an interview.

As the top financial supervisor in a country that is ranked the worlds greenest, Berg notes that even in Denmark corporations are facing a huge task. He also says requirements for corporations to provide data have lagged behind disclosure demands being made on banks.

As a public authority, we need to flag this issue and the risks so that companies know that they need to do something, possibly at an earlier stage than they expected to do it, Berg said. This is not a small challenge for the private, non-financial sector.



Meanwhile, European banks are being warned by their watchdogs to stop resisting new rules or risk weakening the financial system, as the Basel III framework is finalized.

Dow says regulators and lawmakers have so far only indirectly addressed the issue of whether banks should have buffers to absorb potential losses from climate catastrophes.

If we think of classifications and even stress testing for climate change, none of the regulators have said that the output is going to be directly helping inform capital requirements, she said. Still, we think that increasingly regulators are looking at capital requirements on this, taking this holistic approach.




The lawsuit alleges that Mayor Lightfoot recently announced publicly that she is only granting interview requests from journalists of color. Lightfoot has said that decision was never meant to go beyond the one day of her two-year anniversary in office. But Catenacci alleges in the suit that his emails on May 20, 21 and 24 went ignored and as of Thursday, the mayors office had not responded.
Attorney and Harvard law professor Alan Dershowitz is suing for USD 80 million over his portrayal in the streaming service's "Filthy Rich" series about sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The lawsuit, filed on Wednesday in the Miami federal court, contends that intentionally misled Dershowitz, one of the lawyers once representing Epstein, regarding his appearance in the series. The suit also claims defamed him by falsely asserting that he had sex with one of Epstein's many victims.

Dershowitz, now mainly retired in Miami Beach, says in the lawsuit that accusations by Virginia Giuffre that they had sex are false and that Netflix knew it. Giuffre has been one of Epstein's most vocal victims.

Dershowitz was one of the lawyers who negotiated a deal allowing the wealthy financier to escape a federal indictment in return for a guilty plea to state prostitution charges in Florida in connection to the dozens of teenage girls authorities say he molested over the years.

But Dershowitz has always denied Giuffre's claims they had sex.

"Giuffre's accusations that she had sex with Professor Dershowitz are categorically false, and Professor Dershowitz has denied and disproved the accusations -- including under oath subject to the penalties of perjury," the lawsuit says.

In an emailed response, a Netflix spokesperson said Dershowitz's lawsuit "is without merit, and we will vigorously defend our partners and the series".

"Filthy Rich" first became available on the streaming service in May 2020.

Epstein served a relatively short jail sentence on the Florida conviction, which required him to register as a sex offender and settle any lawsuits from his victims.

Years later, Epstein was charged by New York federal prosecutors with sex trafficking and related charges involving his alleged abuse of dozens of teenage girls. He died in August 2019 at a New York jail. His death was ruled a suicide.

(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.)
Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya has called for 'global protests' on Saturday against the government led by President Alexander Lukashenko, following the detention of journalist Roman Protasevich.

In a video message released on Wednesday, Tikhanovskaya urged people across the world to join demonstrations to increase pressure on the Lukashenko administration. Opposition leaders said the Lukashenko regime is nearing isolation like never before, reported NHK World.

The call for action against Lukashenko follows the detention of dissident journalist Roman Protasevich on Sunday after his plane was ordered to land in the Belarusian capital of Minsk while it was crossing through the country's airspace. Many countries have denounced the move.

Lukashenko is scheduled to visit Russia on Friday to hold talks with President Vladimir Putin. Lukashenko is expected to step up his confrontational stance against Western nations with support from Moscow, it reported further.

"Concerning Russia, there are some problems there ... I will not say that our relations with the Russians have worsened, on the contrary, we are now trying to find a way out of this or that specific situation," Sputnik said quoting Lukashenko.

The president added that some issues are related to companies "that are under sanctions" of the West.

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President is expected to nominate Mayor Eric Garcetti, a trusted political ally, as America's next ambassador to India, according to media reports.

Biden is expected to announce the names of political ambassadors, including for India, as soon as next week, according to a report in Axios.

President Biden, a Democrat, is also expected to announce Nicholas Burns as the ambassador to China and Rahm Emanuel and Tom Nides as ambassadors to Japan and Israel respectively, the report in the American news website said on Wednesday.

Garcetti, 50, who served as the co-chair of Biden's presidential campaign, was initially considered for the Cabinet.

Garcetti is the 42nd Mayor of Los Angeles, the second-largest city in the United States, after New York City.

The important position of US envoy to India has been lying vacant since January 20.

In the absence of a full-time ambassador, Daniel Smith, the director of the Foreign Service Institute, who recently served as acting Secretary of State and Acting Deputy Secretary of State, has been sent to New Delhi to serve as Charge d'Affaires, ad interim.

However, the White House declined to comment on the nomination of Burns or Garcetti, saying no one is final until they're announced," an AP news report said.

According to the Axios report, the White House is still finishing the vetting process for potential ambassadors, including Garcetti, following which, Biden is expected to formally send more than a dozen names to the Senate to begin the confirmation process for his first batch of political ambassadors, which also include appointments for France, Italy and Canada.

The president began reviewing names of potential ambassadors in March, and officials are putting a premium on diversity in assembling the first batch that he'll send to the Senate, the report said.

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Two vaccines made by China's Sinopharm appear safe and effective against COVID-19, according to a study published in a medical journal.

Scientists had been waiting for more details about the two vaccines, even though they already are being used in many countries, and one recently won the backing of the World Health Organisation for emergency use.

The report, published online in the Journal of the American Medical Association, concluded the two vaccines are about 73 per cent and 78 per cent effective, as Sinopharm has previously claimed.

Researchers from Sinopharm and its local partners in the Middle East say the trial involved around 40,380 participants with the company's two vaccines -- one developed by the Wuhan Institute of Biological Products and the other by the Beijing Institute of Biological Products and a placebo.

The trial was carried out in four countries Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Jordan. However, the study provided data for just Bahrain and the UAE.

There's nothing very surprising. It's consistent with what they have claimed previously, but it does not completely eliminate the doubts about Sinopharm, said Jin Dong-yan, a medical professor at the University of Hong Kong who was not involved with the study.

He raised doubts about how protective the vaccine was based on a recent surge of cases in the island nation of Seychelles, which had vaccinated a large majority of its population with the Sinopharm vaccine.

The study, performed mostly in younger men, had little information about the vaccine's effectiveness against severe disease. Some experts also expressed concern at the shortage of female participants, with nearly 85 per cent being male.

"It's important to make sure you have tested it in enough women to be able to start seeing any possible safety concerns," said Ashley St. John, an associate professor at Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore.

A spokesperson for the company did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The vaccines, both of which are made with inactivated viruses, have already been given to millions of people across the world.

The World Health Organisation cleared the Beijing Institute of Biological Products' shot for emergency use in early May, making it the first Chinese vaccine to receive the certification.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in April that China has provided vaccines to more than 100 countries, although it has not identified them. While China has six vaccines in use, the majority of its exports come from two companies: Sinopharm and Sinovac.

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For 27 years, has entrusted the management of his enormous wealth and the endowment of his giant foundation to a single man: Michael Larson.

Mr. Larson has invested the Microsoft co-founders money in farmland, hotels, stocks, bonds, even a bowling alley. Thanks in part to Mr. Larson and the soaring value of Microsofts shares, Mr. Gatess fortune has gone from less than $10 billion to about $130 billion.

But Mr. Larson, 61, also engaged in a pattern of workplace misconduct at Mr. Gatess money-management firm, Cascade Investment, according to 10 former employees as well as familiar with the firm.

He openly judged female employees on their attractiveness, showed colleagues nude photos of women on the internet and on several occasions made sexually inappropriate comments. He made a racist remark to a Black employee. He bullied When an employee said she was leaving Cascade, Mr. Larson retaliated by trying to hurt the stock price of the company she planned to join.

Over the years, at least six people  including four Cascade employees  complained to Mr. Gates about Mr. Larson, according to former employees and with direct knowledge of the complaints. (Several of them also complained to his wife, Melinda French Gates.) Cascade made payments to at least seven people who witnessed or knew about Mr. Larsons behavior; in exchange, they agreed to never speak about their time at the firm.

Even as Cascade grew to more than 100 employees and to manage more money than most Wall Street hedge funds, the perception that Mr. Larson had Mr. Gatess unflinching support allowed him to maintain a culture of fear inside the companys lakeside offices, the former employees said. Mr. Larson still runs Cascade.





ALSO READ: Gates divorce: Melinda gets more than $3 billion from Cascade investment

Mr. Gatess reluctance to take decisive action at Cascade adds to an emerging portrait of the billionaire philanthropist that is at odds with his image as a roving global do-gooder and champion of womens empowerment.

As The New York Times has reported, Mr. Gates for years regularly spent time with Jeffrey Epstein, who faced accusations of sex trafficking of girls  a relationship that was among the factors precipitating Ms. French Gatess recent decision to seek a And on at least a few occasions, Mr. Gates pursued women who worked for him at Microsoft and the In 2019, Microsofts board investigated one of those cases, in which Mr. Gates acknowledged he had an affair with an employee. Mr. Gates stepped down from the board last year.

Mr. Larson and Chris Giglio, his spokesman, denied some but not all instances of Mr. Larsons misconduct.

During his tenure, Mr. Larson has managed over 380 people, and there have been fewer than five complaints related to him in total, Mr. Giglio said. He added, Any complaint was investigated and treated seriously and fully examined, and none merited Mr. Larsons dismissal.

Mr. Giglio and Bridgitt Arnold, a spokeswoman for Mr. Gates, said that Bill and Melinda Gates Investments, whose name is sometimes used interchangeably with Cascades, has robust policies to deal with employee complaints about wrongdoing. B.M.G.I. takes all complaints seriously and seeks to address them effectively to guarantee a safe and respectful workplace, Mr. Giglio said.

Ms. Arnold said, B.M.G.I. does not tolerate inappropriate behavior. She added that any issue raised over the companys history has been taken seriously and resolved appropriately.

Mr. Larson said, Calling B.M.G.I. a toxic work environment is unfair to the 160 professionals who make up our team and our culture.

Courtney Wade, a spokeswoman for Ms. French Gates, said, Melinda unequivocally condemns disrespectful and inappropriate conduct in the workplace. She was unaware of most of these allegations given her lack of ownership of and control over B.M.G.I.

Some former Cascade employees declined to comment because of nondisclosure agreements that prohibit them from discussing their time at the company. Others spoke on the condition of anonymity because they feared retribution.

Years after they left Cascade, a few found talking about Mr. Larson so upsetting that they could hardly speak.



ALSO READ: Melinda Gates receives billions in shares from Bill Gates holding company

A Generic-Sounding Name

Before Mr. Larson, Mr. Gatess financial consigliere was Andrew L. Evans, a longtime friend who had previously served a six-month prison sentence for bank fraud. (Mr. Gates visited him in jail.) But when Mr. Evanss criminal record was spotlighted in a front-page Wall Street Journal article in 1993, Mr. Gates sought out a new money manager.

The next year, he hired Mr. Larson, who previously was a fund manager at Putnam Investments. In 1995, Cascade was incorporated in Washington State. The generic-sounding name with no reference to Mr. Gates allowed Mr. Larson to run a vast investment operation with a low public profile.

From the start, Cascade, whose sole function was to manage the Gateses money, was deeply entwined with the wider Gates universe, including Microsoft. The firm is in the same office park in Kirkland, Wash., as Mr. Gatess personal office, Gates Ventures, and across the street from Ms. French Gatess own group, Pivotal Ventures. Over the years, employees have moved among Cascade, the Gates Foundation, Microsoft, the two Gates ventures and K&L Gates, the law firm where Mr. Gatess father had been a named partner. In 2005, when Cascade needed a new human resources executive, the company hired a Microsoft veteran.

Mr. Larson regularly hired people fresh out of college or in the early stages of their careers. Graduates of Claremont McKenna College, his alma mater, were a particular favorite. The college has several scholarships endowed by Mr. Larson.

Some employees saw working at Cascade as a way to make the world a better place. Because Cascade also oversees the Gates Foundations $50 billion endowment, helping it do well meant more money for things like fighting malaria and funding education. Others said they were star-struck by the idea of working for Mr. Gates, who founded Microsoft in 1975 with Paul Allen.

Throughout his tenure, Mr. Larson earned steady returns for Mr. Gates. He invested largely in undervalued, old-fashioned stocks, eschewing hot tech companies. When the dot-com bubble burst in 2000, the strategy paid off. Mr. Larson also shielded Mr. Gatess assets from the steepest declines of the recession in 2008 and 2009.

Mr. Larson branched out into real estate and high-end hotels. He bought a 47.5 percent stake in the Four Seasons chain. He acquired vast tracts of land that by some estimates make Mr. Gates the largest private owner of farmland in the United States. Chasing the highest returns was not the main goal. The mandate, according to one former employee, was: We dont want Bills name in the headlines.

You Live in the Ghetto

In the spring of 2004, Stacy Ybarra decided to quit her job at Cascade to join the internet company InfoSpace.

Ms. Ybarra, then 30, had joined Cascade three years earlier as an investor relations analyst. After she announced her planned departure, Mr. Larson became so angry that he shorted the stock of InfoSpace, according to three people familiar with the episode. (Short selling involves placing bearish bets on the companys shares, which sometimes causes the stock to fall.) Two of the people said they saw Mr. Larsons trades on their computer terminals.

Mr. Larson told Ms. Ybarra and others that he had shorted InfoSpaces stock out of spite, according to the three people, who heard about his remarks at the time.

Mr. Giglio confirmed that Cascade shorted the stock but denied that Mr. Larson did it to spite Ms. Ybarra.

At the same time, Mr. Larson repeatedly pressured Ms. Ybarra to remain at Cascade. She ultimately agreed to stay.

On Election Day that November, Mr. Larson asked some Cascade employees in the office about the best time to go vote. Ms. Ybarra, who is Black, replied that she had voted that morning without having to wait in line. Mr. Larson responded: But you live in the ghetto, and everybody knows that Black people dont vote. The scene was described by two people who heard the comment and a third who was told about it later.

Mr. Giglio denied that Mr. Larson made the remark.

At least one employee at Cascade complained to human resources about Mr. Larsons remark. The complaint made its way to Mr. Gates and Ms. French Gates, who later spoke to Ms. Ybarra as part of an internal investigation, according to people familiar with the matter.

In January 2005, she quit Cascade, received a small payout and agreed to not speak about the firm in the future.

When these allegations were made more than 15 years ago, B.M.G.I. took them very seriously and hired an independent lawyer to investigate, Mr. Giglio said. He added that it is standard procedure at Cascade to have employees sign confidentiality agreements when they get severance packages.

Potential for Embarrassment

In November 2006, Mr. Gates and Ms. French Gates were sent another complaint about Mr. Larson. This one was from Robert E. Sydow, a California fund manager who had been close friends with Mr. Larson and whose firm, Grandview Capital Management, Mr. Larson had hired to manage a $1.6 billion slice of the foundations endowment.

Mr. Sydow wrote a six-page letter to the Gateses accusing Mr. Larson of abruptly severing Cascades ties with Grandview after a dispute between him and Mr. Sydow. (The dispute, Mr. Sydow wrote, came after Mr. Sydow warned Mr. Larson that he needed to stop using his power to hurt others in anger.) The letter, reviewed by The Times, said Mr. Larson had harmed Grandviews reputation in part by spreading false and defamatory lies about it in the market.

Mr. Sydow, the godfather to one of Mr. Larsons children, went on to describe multiple instances of Mr. Larson seeking to punish employees who left Cascade and retaliating against those who cooperated with the investigation into his treatment of Ms. Ybarra, among other things.

Mr. Larson has the potential to greatly embarrass both you and the foundation, Mr. Sydow wrote.

We exit agreements with third-party investment managers for a variety of reasons, Mr. Larson said in a statement sent by Mr. Giglio.

After Ms. Ybarras departure, Cascade hired a new head of human resources, Kathy Berman. She had once worked at Microsoft, most recently as the head of executive recruiting.

Around then, there were also efforts to create physical distance between Mr. Larson and some Cascade employees, including moving a number of people onto a different floor from Mr. Larsons office, according to three former employees. Mr. Giglio said employee morale was high.

Cascade employees including Mr. Larson were required to undergo sexual harassment and sensitivity training. Mr. Larson didnt seem to take it seriously, one former employee said. We dont need this, the former employee recalled Mr. Larson saying. Mr. Giglio denied that.

Mr. Larsons conduct did not improve, former employees said.

In emails, he sometimes castigated colleagues as stupid or called their work garbage, according to several people who saw the emails. (The missives came to be known as Larson bombs.) At meetings, he would sometimes dismiss employees presentations with comments like, Thats the dumbest idea Ive ever heard.

Years ago, earlier in my career, I used harsh language that I would not use today, Mr. Larson said in the statement. I regret this greatly but have done a lot of work to change.

At a work Christmas party in the mid-2000s, Mr. Larson was seated outdoors with a small group of male employees after dinner, according to one of the men. Three female colleagues were standing about 20 feet away. Which one of them do you wanna have sex with? Mr. Larson asked the men, using a profane verb.

When a female employee was on a Weight Watchers program, Mr. Larson asked her, Are you losing weight for me? according to someone who heard the remark. Another former employee said Mr. Larson would ask male employees whether certain women at Cascade were single.

On at least one occasion in recent years, with employees looking on, Mr. Larson displayed photographs of naked women on his phone and compared them to Ms. Berman, the human resources executive, according to a former employee who witnessed the incident and another person who was told about it. (Ms. Berman left Cascade in 2015.) Another woman who worked at Cascade said Mr. Larson asked her if she would strip for a certain amount of money.

Mr. Larson denied making any of those comments. This is not true, he said.

A contract stirs concern

About three years ago, Megan Scott, Mr. Larsons chief of staff, complained to the Gateses about Mr. Larson, according to three people with knowledge of the matter.

Among her concerns was that Mr. Larson was preparing to sign a five-year contract with a recruiting firm that a Cascade employee, Pamela Harrington, was starting, two of the people said. (The proposed contract would pay Mrs. Harringtons firm an annual retainer that started at less than $1.5 million and over time decreased to $400,000, said Mitchell Langberg, a lawyer for Mrs. Harrington.) Ms. Scott and another employee complained to the Gateses about what they saw as the close personal relationship between Mr. Larson and Mrs. Harrington, the people said.

This allegation unfairly emanates from a former disgruntled employee who has tried hard to undermine the reputation of Mrs. Harrington, a highly accomplished and successful individual in her own right, Mr. Giglio said.

Mr. Gates told Mr. Larson to cancel the proposed contract with Mrs. Harringtons firm, the people said.

Mr. Giglio said the decision was part of a broader move not to outsource many internal functions, including recruiting.

By 2019, that had apparently changed. Mr. Langberg said that B.M.G.I. entered into an executive recruiting contract with Mrs. Harringtons firm that December. Mrs. Harrington has been providing service under that contract since that time, he said.

Around the time of the complaints involving Mrs. Harrington, Mr. Larson was repeatedly propositioning, and being rebuffed by, the manager of a local bicycle store that was mostly owned by a firm, Rally Capital, that Cascade had invested in.

In 2017, the manager hired a lawyer, who sent a letter to Mr. Gates and Ms. French Gates warning them that if Mr. Larson did not stop harassing her, she would sue them. The letter said Mr. Larson had told the manager that he wanted to have sex with her and another woman, according to someone who read the letter.

Mr. Gates agreed to settle the matter by having a payment made to the bike store manager. Ms. French Gates insisted that an outside investigator review the incident and Cascades culture, people familiar with the matter previously told The Times. In 2018, Mr. Larson went on paid leave while the investigation took place.

At the time, Mr. Gates told a Cascade employee that he doubted that Mr. Larson would ever return, according to a person with knowledge of the conversation.

Jessie L. Harris, a lawyer for a Seattle law firm, Williams Kastner, conducted the investigation. He concluded that the bike shop managers complaint could not be substantiated.

You should know that Michael wanted to contest the allegations throughout the investigation, Mr. Giglio said. But he, obviously, was not the ultimate decision maker.

Mr. Larson returned from leave in 2019. Cascades chief operating officer had departed during Mr. Larsons absence, and Ms. Scott left shortly after his return. To curb Mr. Larsons influence over Cascade, Mr. Gates told him to hire a new chief operating officer, a former Cascade employee said. Mr. Giglio said the process included a committee and an outside search firm.

The pick was Mr. Larsons college and business school classmate.
External Affairs Minister arrived in DC on Wednesday for a series of meetings with top officials of the Biden administration, which is expected to review the progress made in bilateral ties during the first 100 days and lay the groundwork for the rest of the term of US President

During his three-day stay here, Jaishankar (66) is scheduled to meet his American counterpart, Secretary of State Tony Blinken, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, along with other key members of the Biden administration.

"The (defense) secretary will be meeting on Friday with the Indian Minister of External Affairs, Jaishankar, as part of India's first cabinet-level visit to Washington," Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby told reporters at a news conference.

"The secretary is meeting with the external affairs minister, will continue discussions that the two held in New Delhi in March and will continue the robust bilateral defence and security relationship between our two countries. We are looking forward to having him here at the Pentagon and hosting him for a good set of talks," Kirby said.

The State Department has not yet announced the timing of Blinken's meeting with Jaishankar at its Foggy Bottom headquarters. Blinken is currently travelling in the Middle East as asked by Biden to continue with the peace process.

"The secretary (of state) looks forward to meeting minister Jaishankar during his visit and discussing a broad range of issues, including COVID-19 relief, efforts to strengthen Indo-Pacific cooperation through the Quad, enhanced UN and multilateral cooperation, and a range of other shared regional security and economic priorities," a State Department spokesperson said earlier this week.

Jaishankar is expected to meet a group of eminent business leaders on Thursday at two different meetings organised by the US India Business Council and the US India Strategic and Partnership Forum.

"It will be a continuation of the discussion, the very productive discussions that we had when we were in New Delhi a month or so ago. Because India is a strategic defence partner and so, there is lots to discuss," Kirby told reporters in response to a question at his Pentagon news conference.

Jaishankar, who was the Indian Ambassador to the US from December 2013 to January 2015, is also scheduled to have meetings with eminent American lawmakers. Congressman Brad Sherman, Co-Chair of the India Caucus, said he looks forward to meeting with Jaishankar, India's Ambassador to the US Taranjit Singh Sandhu and other leaders concerned with the US-India relationship for dinner on Wednesday.

"This is an opportunity to discuss how the US can further help India as it continues to battle COVID-19, global vaccine production and security issues in the Indo-Pacific," Sherman said.

Earlier in the day, in a conversation with former US National Security Advisor General (retd) H R McMaster, who is currently at the Hoover Institute, Jaishankar said in DC today, there is a real appreciation of the potential of the India-US relationship and what it can do.

"And it is true of New Delhi as well. The challenge for us, keeping in mind a lot of the issues...it is not a question of one or two or three countries who will decide how the world is. The world is truly much more multipolar. And if it is multipolar, then it is all the more important for countries to learn how to work with each other more effectively. And I see a big change in the American mindset in that regard.

"The United States has not only an enormous ability to reinvent itself, it also has a great ability to assess its situation and re-strategise in a way. I do think that when it comes to the big issues of our day, maybe because we are pluralistic societies, because we are political democracies, because we are market economies that we have fundamental convergences, convergences which are societal, convergences which are geopolitical," he said.

"I think the challenge before us is how to translate those convergences into actionable policies. That is really what I was very happy to work with you during your tenure as national security adviser...and I certainly look forward to doing that with the people in the administration," Jaishankar added.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Pfizer said on Thursday said that neutralisation against the B.1.617 variant of is being tested as part of its ongoing monitoring activities.

It said a recent real-world study in subjects who had received two doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine demonstrated 75 per cent effectiveness against any documented infection by the B.1.351 variant and 100 per cent against that by B.1.351[1], the variant first identified in South Africa.

The US pharma company said neutralization data provide strong support that "our vaccine will continue to protect against these variants".

B.1.617 variant of was first found in India.

"To date, we are encouraged by both the real-world data and laboratory studies of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine and see no evidence that the virus or circulating variants of concern regularly escape protection. Neutralisation against the B.1.617 variant of is being tested as part of Pfizer's ongoing monitoring activities," the statement said.

It said Pfizer recently conducted a study with the University of Texas to understand the neutralising activity of BNT162b2-elicited serum against SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern. The preprint server Research Square has published a manuscript from the study.

The company said that in the study, Pfizer and the University of Texas Medical Branch genetically engineered viruses with spike protein mutations found in the newly emerged B.1.617 or B.1.525 lineages. The viruses were then tested against a panel of sera from participants in the previously reported Phase 3 trial who had been immunized with the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.

"All the sera neutralised all the viruses tested. Additionally, a recent real-world study in subjects who had received two doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine demonstrated the effectiveness of 75 per cent against any documented infection by the B.1.351 variant and 100 per cent against documented severe, critical, or fatal disease caused by the variant B.1.351[1] (the variant first identified in South Africa), which shows a similar reduction of neutralisation titers (titer is a laboratory test that measures the presence and amount of antibodies in blood) as B.1.617.1," it said.

"This indicates that reductions in neutralisation like that observed for B.1.617.1 varaint are unlikely to result in loss of vaccine efficacy," it added.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Chinas Vice Premier Liu He had a candid first conversation as the two sides try to resolve some of their differences on trade.

The trade chiefs spoke Thursday morning in Beijing, Chinas Ministry of Commerce said in a statement, and conducted candid, pragmatic and constructive exchanges in an attitude of equality and mutual respect.



In a separate statement, the USTR said Ambassador Tai discussed the guiding principles of the Biden-Harris administrations worker-centered trade policy and her ongoing review of the US- trade relationship, while also raising issues of concern.



The phone call is one of the few top-level meetings between the two sides since President Joe Biden took office in January and comes after top diplomats had an acrimonious meeting in Alaska in March. While both nations agreed on a partial trade deal in 2020, and the US still have tariffs on billions of dollars in trade in place, and has never met the purchase commitments it made in that deal.

The US administration is reviewing its stance toward China and hasnt made any major changes to the policies it inherited from former President Donald Trump, although there are increasing signs of the direction it will take.

In contrast with much of the rest of the bilateral relationship, trade has been one of the less contentious issues recently.

Ties have deteriorated over the past year or more on almost every other topic, with clashes over human-rights concerns including allegations of forced labor in Chinas western Xinjiang region; Taiwan; the crackdown in Hong Kong; Beijings purchases of oil from sanctioned Iran; and the long-running disputes over the South China and East China Seas.

Era of engagement with China is over



The US is entering a period of intense competition with China as the government running the worlds second-biggest becomes ever more tightly controlled by President Xi Jinping, the White Houses top official for Asia said.

The period that was broadly described as engagement has come to an end, Kurt Campbell, the US coordinator for Indo-Pacific affairs on the National Security Council, said.

China slams US move to probe Covid origins



China hit out at what it called the US dark history, after the Biden administration decided to conduct a probe into the origins of Covid-19 and whether it leaked from a lab in China. Biden had asked the US intelligence agencies to report to him within the next three months.The lab leak theory has been dismissed by the World Health Organization, but has gained revival under the Biden administration.
SINGAPORE (Reuters) - slipped on Thursday but without falling through recent lows, as enough traders clung to hopes that the asset class can claw its way back from last week's plunge.

dropped 4% in Asia to about $37,600 and the next biggest crypto token, ether, was down 7.5% at $2,676 - leaving both well above deep week-ago troughs but miles shy of the record highs they scaled in April.

Some analysts said the falls felt relatively modest compared with recent volatility and pointed to a market finding a floor, though it is clear regulatory attention and wavering enthusiasm from boss Elon Musk are going to remain major risks.

"The big cleanout has probably occurred," said IG Markets analyst Kyle Rodda, as trade had calmed down somewhat.

"People lose patience and bail along the way, but ... it looks like its starting to form a bit of a bottom here," he said. "I'm sure that there are still some nervous folks out there who're hoping and wishing that their long crypto positions are going to crawl back into the green."

Bitcoin's drop was triggered by China's efforts to crack down on mining and trading of and weighed by suspending its willingness to accept it as payment due to environmental concerns about energy use..

The U.S. Treasury Department has also called for requiring large cryptocurrency transfers to be reported to the Internal Revenue Service and the Federal Reserve flagged the risks posed to financial stability.

"It is not a substitute for money," Vishnu Varathan, head of economics and strategy at Mizuho Bank, told the Global Markets Forum chatroom on Refinitiv Eikon.

"At best (it) is an alternative asset, albeit one without intrinsic value," he said, adding that blockchain technology and its potential "must not be conflated with crypto-currencies".

Such nagging doubts have kept from closing above its 200-day moving average since it collapsed to hit last week's four-month low around $30,000. This week it has been supported around $37,000 but forged no higher than $40,904, while ether, which hit $1,730 last weekend, has attracted buyers above $2,500.

(Reporting by Tom Westbrook and Vidya Ranganathan in Singapore and Divya Chowdhury in Mumbai; Editing by Jacqueline Wong and Gerry Doyle)

(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.)
Amidst the raging second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic and many fearing a third wave, the is in the limelight for the second consecutive year as several pharma and life sciences companies are lined up to tap the equity through IPOs over the next few months, according to investment bankers.

Five such companies which have firmed up their plans are Glenmark Lifesciences, a fully-owned arm of Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, the city-based bulk drugs firm Supriya Lifesciences, drug formulations firm Windlass Biotech, Bain Capital-backed Emcure Pharma and CX Partners-funded Veeda Clinical Research.

According to investment-bankers, they are planning to mop up over Rs 7,000 crore in primary share sales.

While the IPO street was the busiest in FY'21 with the best ever performance after the pandemic scare had ebbed, pharma stocks have been one of the best performers throughout the year when Sensex and Nifty scaled new highs.

For instance, Arti Pharama gave over 501 per cent in returns in FY21, Granuels rallied 201 per cent, J&B Chem gained 145 per cent, Aurobindo Pharma just doubled the returns, Divi's rose 104 per cent, Ipca Labs returned 97 per cent and Ajanta Pharma gave 72 per cent in FY21, pushing BSE healthcare index to all-time highs.

The huge IPO line-up from healthcare players comes in the back of stellar performance of Gland Pharma stock that debuted in 2020 with the biggest secotral issue in decades mopping up around Rs 6,500 crore. Since listing, it has gained over 110 per cent.

The domestic pharma sector accounts for over 50 per cent of global vaccine supplies, 40 per cent of generic drug supplies to the US, and 25 per cent of all medicines to Britain.

In FY20, the domestic pharma market stood at Rs 1.4 lakh crore, a growth of close 10 per cent from the previous fiscal and is forecast to touch the USD 100-billion mark by 2025.

Glenmark Lifesciences, Windlass Biotech and Supriya Lifesciences have already filed the DRHPs with the Sebi and are likely to hit the market over the next few months.

"Outlook for the API (active pharmaceutical ingredient) is positive as companies are looking to source APIs from India, moving away from China," Vinod Nair, head of research at brokerage Geojit Financial Services, told PTI from Kochi explaining the rationale for the rush to the primary market.

An analyst with a leading brokerage, requesting not to be quoted as his firm is working in a few issues, opined that pharma firms are gaining from the tailwinds to the API market where India used to be the leader but has lost out to China of late and is trying to regain the lost glory now.

The China Plus One strategy under which many Western countries are keen to lower their China dependency, and tax incentives for local manufacturing are also helping the sentiment.

"New product launches, large aging population, spike in chronic diseases due to the lockdowns, and new methods for drug discovery among others are key growth drivers for the pharma industry," he added.

The recent outperformance of the pharma sector, ebullient secondary market conditions and keenness of investors to subscribe worthy IPOs have encouraged many pharma players to tap the IPO route now, Deepak Jasani, head of retail research at HDFC Securities, told PTI.

Another analyst said companies like Glenmark Lifesciences and Windlas are likely to benefit thanks to their proven capabilities in contract development and manufacturing.

Last month, Glenmark Lifesciences, which is into APIs, filed a draft red herring prospectus for a Rs 1,500-crore IPO. The offer will consist of a fresh issue of Rs 1,160 crore and an offer for sale of up to 7.31 million shares by parent Glenmark. Glenmark Lifesciences supplies over 130 APIs to over 700 customers across 65 countries. Its five plants have an annual production capacity of over 450 metric tonnes.

Private equity major Bain Capital-backed Emcure Pharmaceuticals is into generics and is planning a Rs 3,500-Rs 4,000 crore issue, consisting new shares and an OFS by promoter Satish Mehta and Bain Capital.

The CX Partners funded Veeda Clinical Research is planing a Rs 500 crore IPO and JM Financial and SBI Caps are said to be the advisors. It is yet to file the papers with Sebi.

The Mumbai-based bulk drugs firm Supriya has also filed for a Rs 1,200 crore issue. It will use the proceeds for expansion and to trim debt and intends to raise Rs 200 crore through a fresh issue, and a Rs 1,000-crore from an offer for sale by promoter Satish Waman Wagh.

Supriya, according to the DRHP, intends to expand its existing plants at Lote in Maharashtra, and to build new API capacity. It sells 39 APIs focused on diverse therapeutic segments like antihistamine, analgesic, anaesthetic, vitamin, anti-asthmatic and anti-allergic.

Supriya is the largest exporter of chlorpheniramine maleate and ketamine hydrochloride, contributing around 55 per cent and 70 per cent, respectively, of API exports from the country.

Windlas Biotech has filed preliminary IPO papers for offer of fresh issue of Rs 165 crore and an offer for sale later. Windlas is into formulations, and contract development and manufacturing business. It will use the money to add capacity at its Dehradun plant IV and also to add injectables dosage capability at the Dehradun Plant-II.

(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.)
2309 N. Geneva Terrace, Chicago: $4,250,000 | Listed: March 12, 2021



This six-bedroom home has six full bathrooms, one half-bath, a 55-foot atrium, a wood-burning pizza oven and a 1,000-bottle wine cellar. This building was constructed in 1893 as an apartment complex, converted into a single-family home in 1990 and recently renovated. Stained glass that is original to the building is used in the primary bedroom and bath and the living and dining room windows. The kitchen is equipped with a 10-burner commercial range, new quartz counters and custom cabinets. The primary bedroom suite takes up an entire floor and includes a sitting area with an LED fireplace, two closets, a marble bathroom with a soaking tub, shower and double vanity and another room that can be used as an office or workout room. A large cedar closet, a new roof deck, and a 2-car attached garage complete this home.



Agent: Chloe Ifergan of Jameson Sothebys International, 312-636-4994



*Some listing photos are virtually staged, meaning they have been digitally altered to represent different furnishing or decorating options.



To feature your luxury listing of $800,000 or more in Chicago Tribunes Dream Homes, send listing information and high-res photos to ctc-realestate@chicagotribune.com.



Join our Chicago Dream Homes Facebook group for more luxury listings and real estate news.

(Kim Quillen)
Indian demand is taking a big hit as Covid-19 runs rampant across the country. But uncertainty around when the virus wave will subside and the lack of a unified government response has left the in the dark as to how quickly consumption might pick up again.

The demand destruction over the last couple of months has been less severe than last year, when the government imposed the worlds biggest national lockdown. However, the lack of a coordinated effort to shut down activity to halt the viruss spread will likely lead to a longer, although less pronounced, economic slump.

When it will return to normalcy is a very difficult question to answer, said Shrikant Madhav Vaidya, chairman of Indian Oil Corp., the countrys biggest refiner. We can only hope and pray that with the vaccination drive underway, things will come out well. But when, I dont know.

Unlike last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hasnt imposed a countrywide lockdown. States have been left to fend for themselves, leading to a patchwork of curfews and restrictions that are being constantly extended as record infections and deaths overwhelm hospitals and crematoriums.

We hope the situation will be clearer by the end of this month or the first week of June, said Mukesh Kumar Surana, chairman of Hindustan Petroleum Corp. Demand should be better in the quarter through September, he said.

and gasoline, which account for more than half of oil consumption in India, are bearing the brunt of localized lockdowns. Sales of the two fuels at the three biggest retailers are about a third lower so far in May compared with pre-virus levels two years earlier. Thats not as bad as April 2020, however, when demand nearly halved. This time round, more factories have remained open and cargo movements between states havent been as badly affected.

Even so, around 65% of Indias truck fleet is idle due to weak demand and a shortage of drivers, according to Naveen Kumar Gupta, secretary general of All India Motor Transport Congress. Localized restrictions are creating hurdles to truck movement and the slow progress on vaccination of drivers and a reverse migration of labor back to rural areas is really hurting the industry, he said.

Indian refiners were hoping to keep processing rates reasonably high this year, encouraged by low stockpiles and export opportunities, even as consumption dropped. May shipments of clean fuels like gasoline and are set to be the highest since January 2020, according to oil analytics firm Vortexa.

However, a slowdown in construction and factory activity has led to a build-up of sulfur and bitumen stockpiles, making it more difficult to maintain operations. Crude processing fell to 4.86 million barrels per day in April, from 4.96 million in March, official data show. FGE sees run rates at 4.45 million this month, 4.6 million in June and then averaging 4.8 million over July and August.

Demand for key oil products -- diesel, gasoline, LPG, naphtha, jet fuel and fuel oil -- is set to drop by about 730,000 barrels per day in May from 4 million in March, the industry consultant said. June demand will be only around 30,000 barrels a day higher than this month, according to FGE.

The regional lockdowns and periodic announcements do make it difficult to predict, said Senthil Kumaran, head of south Asia oil at FGE, who has already revised Indian estimates lower twice this year. I strongly believe the impact will linger through the third quarter as well. Its going to be very difficult for Indian oil consumption to reach March levels anytime this year.
By Gary McWilliams

(Reuters) - Shareholders rebuked the top two U.S. companies on Wednesday for dragging their feet on fighting climate change, while a Dutch court ruled that needs to accelerate cuts to greenhouse gas emissions.

"Today was a stark warning for Big Oil," said Bess Joffe, of the Church Commissioners for England, which manages the Church of England's investment fund, with executives "being held to account by investors and lawmakers."

lost at least two board seats to an activist hedge fund, shareholders at Chevron endorsed a call to further reduce its emissions and a court deemed Royal Dutch Shell's emissions targets insufficient.

Investor support for climate concerns could force and gas companies to rethink how fast they pivot to other forms of energy. BP Plc, which recently pledged to consult with shareholders on its climate targets, could see the next test of the groundswell.

A Dutch court ordered Shell to slash its carbon dioxide emissions by 2030.

DISSIDENTS GET A WIN AT EXXON

Shell said it would appeal, and analysts called the decision not the last word in the case.

"This ruling has negligible chance to survive appeals," said Per Magnus Nysveen, of energy consultancy Rystad Energy.

In a stunning blow to top management at Exxon, shareholders elected two change candidates for its board and approved measures calling for annual reports on climate and grassroots lobbying effort. Activists could yet win a third seat with some votes still to be counted and the full board not yet known.

After the meeting, CEO Darren Woods said Exxon heard shareholders' desire to advance lower-carbon and cost-cutting efforts.

"We are well positioned to respond," he said.

Chevron shareholders backed a call for the company to cut emissions from the end-use of its fuels with 61% supporting the petition. Another resolution calling for a report on the business impact of achieving net zero emissions by 2050 was backed by 48% of votes cast.

PROTEST VOTES

"The question for companies is when and how much" do they reduce oil and gas production in response to investor and social concerns, said Charles Elson, a professor of corporate governance at the University of Delaware.

Investors have registered protests over the slow pace of change, but corporate executives will have to evaluate how to implement what are non-binding resolutions, he said.

The votes signal a new sense of urgency, said Mark Van Baal, who leads a climate advocacy group that placed resolutions calling for emissions cuts at Chevron, ConocoPhillips and Phillips66. All got at least 58% support.

Investors are saying: "we want you to act by decreasing emissions now, not in the distant future," he said.

Graphic: Big Oil's energy transition, https://graphics.reuters.com/OILMAJORS-SPENDING/azgpodanqvd/chart.png

(Reporting by Gary McWilliams and Jennifer Hiller in Houston; Editing by David Gregorio)

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By Sonali Paul

MELBOURNE (Reuters) - fell on Thursday but stayed within the tight range they have been in all week, as optimism on the summer driving season in the United States and Europe offset concerns about demand in India and a potential supply increase from Iran.

fell 44 cents, or 0.6%, to $68.43 a barrel at 0220 GMT, erasing Wednesday's gain of 22 cents. Brent has traded between $68 and $69 for most of this week.

U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fell 43 cents, or 0.7%, to $65.78 a barrel, after a rise of 14 cents on Wednesday, but still in the $65-$66 range it has been this week.

" remain focused on the Iranian nuclear talks and whether sanctions on oil exports are lifted in full, and when," Citi analysts said in a note.

That will be a big issue for the next meeting of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies, together called OPEC+, on June 1, where producers will have to assess whether to change their plans for easing production curbs against the prospect of Iranian supply returning to the market.

Citi predicted OPEC+ would stick to plans to bring back 700,000 barrels per day (bpd) of oil supply in June, but the group's plan to step up supply by a further 840,000 bpd in July "might now be in question".

JPMorgan said it did not expect OPEC+ to hike production beyond what the group has already agreed for May through July and would decide any future increases based on the demand outlook.

Analysts said any increase of supply from Iran would only be gradual, with JPMorgan estimating Iran could add 500,000 bpd by the end of this year and a further 500,000 bpd by August 2022.

While the market was supported on Wednesday by a bigger-than-expected drawdown in U.S. oil inventories, there are still concerns about demand shrinking in India, the world's third-largest oil consumer. [EIA/S]

"However, we don't think demand concerns in India will derail the narrative of global oil demand recovering," Commonwealth Bank commodities analyst Vivek Dhar said.

(Reporting by Sonali Paul; Editing by Himani Sarkar)

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Shares of Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group (ADAG) company, (RInfra) were locked in 10 per cent upper circuit at Rs 68.20 on the BSE on Thursday on the back of heavy volumes.

The stock of the electric utilities company was trading at its highest level since June 2019. It was trading higher for the fifth straight day. Till 01:18 pm, a combined 14.2 million equity shares had changed hands and there were pending buy orders for 1.55 million shares on the NSE and BSE. It had hit an all-time low of Rs 8.65 in March 2020 and a record high of Rs 2,632 in January 2008.

In the past one month, the stock has gained 103 per cent from the level of Rs 33.55, as compared to 4.5 per cent rise in the S&P BSE Sensex.

The country's largest mortgage lender Housing Development Finance Corporation (HDFC) has continued to offload shares of RInfra through stock exchanges in the secondary market, which were held by it through the invocation of pledged shares. On Tuesday, May 26, the corporation further sold 3.19 million shares of RInfra worth Rs 18.77 crore.

The corporation had sold 8.11 million shares, representing 3.08 per cent of the share capital of RInfra, between May 18- 24, 2021 (including these dates), HDFC said in a regulatory filing on Tuesday. "The sale was carried out through stock exchanges at the prevailing market price. The aggregate consideration received for the sale of 8.11 shares is Rs 43.91 crore, HDFC said.

Since April, HDFC has sold nearly 5 percentage point stake of RInfra via open market. The mortgage lender held 8.25 per cent stake in ADAG Company at the end of March 2021 quarter, the shareholding pattern data shows. The names of the sellers were not ascertained immediately.

Meanwhile, on April 1, RInfra and YES Bank had announced a sale transaction of Reliance Centre, Santacruz, Mumbai to YES Bank for Rs 1,200 crore. The entire proceeds from sale of Reliance Centre, Santacruz is utilized only to repay the debt of YES Bank, RInfra had said in exchange filing.

The board of directors of RInfra is scheduled to meet tomorrow, May 28, 2021, inter alia, to consider and approve the audited financial results for the quarter and financial year ended March 31, 2021.

Apart from RInfra, other ADAG stocks like Reliance Capital (up 5 per cent at Rs 13.37), Reliance Communications (up 10 per cent at Rs 2.12), Reliance Power (up 5 per cent at Rs 8.68), Reliance Home Finance (up 5 per cent at Rs 2.73) and Reliance Naval and Engineering (up 5 per cent at Rs 3.20) were locked in their respective upper circuits on the BSE. In comparison, the S&P BSE Sensex was up 0.23 per cent at 51,137 points.
Shares of (India) were locked in the upper circuit of 20 per cent, hitting their 52-week high of Rs 7,196.90 on the BSE on Thursday, after the company said it will consider a stock split and bonus issue in the forthcoming board meeting to be held on June 10, 2021.

Till 09:51 am, a combined around 18,000 equity shares had already changed hands, and there were pending buy orders for 7,400 shares on the NSE and BSE.

The board of directors of the company is scheduled to meet June 10, 2021 to consider the audited financial results of the company for the quarter and year ended 31st March, 2021 and will also consider recommendation of final dividend for the financial year 2020-21 and book closure for the purpose, said in exchange filing.

In the said meeting, the board of directors will also consider a proposal of subdivision of shares and declaration of bonus issue to/for the shareholders at such rate/ratio to be decided therein, (India) said.

Earlier in March 2016, the company had issued bonus shares in the ratio of 1:1 i.e. one bonus share for every share held in the company. The oil marketing & distribution company had also sub-divided face value of equity shares from Rs 10 to Rs 5.

Generally, a company plans to go for a stock split to make the shares more affordable for small retail investors and increase liquidity. In the past one year, the stock of Tide Water Oil has rallied 59 per cent as compared to a 4-per cent rise in the S&P BSE Sensex. In one year, it more-than-doubled or rose 109 per cent against 61 per cent surge in the benchmark index. The stock hit an all-time high of Rs 8,317 in January 2016.
Gabriel India rose 2.51% to Rs 126.70 after the company's net profit rose 4.8% to Rs 27.69 crore on 36.8% increase in net sales to Rs 580.73 crore in Q4 March 2021 over Q4 March 2020.

Profit before tax soared 82.1% to Rs 40.67 crore in Q4 FY21 as against Rs 22.34 crore in Q4 FY20. EBITDA grew 49% to Rs 49.30 crore in Q4 FY21 as against Rs 33.10 crore over the same period last year. EBITDA margin improved to 8.5% in Q4 March 2021 from 7.8% in Q4 March 2020.

During the financial year, Gabriel India's net profit tanked 35.59% to Rs 54.45 crore on 9.09% decline in net sales to Rs 1,699.93 crore in FY 2021 over FY 2020. The results of FY21 are not comparable due to the adverse impact by outbreak of Covid-19. However, due to stringent cost reduction measures Gabriel has managed to minimise the impact of the Pandemic on its performance.

Cash flow from operations stood at Rs 204.30 crore compared with Rs 120.10 crore in FY20, recording a growth of 70.10% Y-o-Y (year-on-year). The capex incurred during the period was at Rs 47.60 crore.

The board recommended a final dividend for FY 2020-21 of Rs 0.70 per equity share.

Meanwhile, the board approved the re-appointment of Manoj Kolhatkar as the managing director of Gabriel India for a further period of five years from the expiry of his present term of office, with effect from 27 May 2021.

Gabriel India manufactures various auto components. The company's products are sold to manufacturers of two-wheeler scooters, motorcycles, cars, light commercial vehicles and trucks located in India and abroad.

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Hong Kong stock market finished session on a negative note on Thursday, 27 May 2021, as profit taking pressure after benchmark indices rising for two consecutive days to its highest level since April 29.

At closing bell, the benchmark Hang Seng Index rose 0.88%, or 255.15 points, to 29,166.01.

The Hang Seng China Enterprises Index added 0.58%, or 62.95 points, to 10,855.58.

The sub-index of the Hang Seng tracking the utilities sector added 0.19% and commerce & industry sector added 0.07%, while the finance sector fell 0.51% and the properties sector fell 0.13%.

Shares of Tencent Holdings was the worst performing blue chips in Hong Kong, falling 2% to HK$605.50, amid concerns that mainland Chinese regulators were ramping up a crackdown on fintech companies.

Shares of Xiaomi added 3.2% to HK$29.05, after smartphone maker first-quarter net profit grew 260.6% on the back of increased sales worldwide.

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Infosys Ltd is quoting at Rs 1412, up 1.06% on the day as on 12:49 IST on the NSE. The stock is up 99.6% in last one year as compared to a 61.58% jump in NIFTY and a 94.5% jump in the Nifty IT index.

Infosys Ltd is up for a third straight session today. The stock is quoting at Rs 1412, up 1.06% on the day as on 12:49 IST on the NSE. The benchmark NIFTY is up around 0.22% on the day, quoting at 15334.45. The Sensex is at 51123.32, up 0.21%. Infosys Ltd has gained around 4.13% in last one month.

Meanwhile, Nifty IT index of which Infosys Ltd is a constituent, has gained around 5.1% in last one month and is currently quoting at 26857.3, up 1.59% on the day. The volume in the stock stood at 45.37 lakh shares today, compared to the daily average of 52.61 lakh shares in last one month.

The benchmark May futures contract for the stock is quoting at Rs 1413.85, up 1.19% on the day. Infosys Ltd is up 99.6% in last one year as compared to a 61.58% jump in NIFTY and a 94.5% jump in the Nifty IT index.

The PE of the stock is 33.09 based on TTM earnings ending March 21.

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Abraham Ramirez, left, serves water to Candy Hanslik of Elgin and Lois Perry, right, of Naperville during lunch at Foxfire Restaurant in Geneva on Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2020. FoxFire Tavern asked the Illinois Supreme Court in December to overturn an appellate court ruling in favor of Gov. Pritzker, but the court denied the petition Wednesday. (Zbigniew Bzdak / Chicago Tribune)
Ramco Systems jumped 4.60% to Rs 583 after the company said that it will implement its aviation software, Ramco Aviation M&E MRO Software V5.8 at Iraq's national carrier, Iraqi Airways Company.

Iraqi Airways Company, operating as Iraqi Airways, is the national carrier of Iraq, headquartered on the grounds of Baghdad International Airport in Baghdad. It is the second oldest airline in the Middle East. Iraqi Airways operates from its main base in Baghdad International Airport.

Ramco will implement its complete Aviation Software including modules for Engineering & CAMO, Maintenance, Materials Management and M&E Quality & Safety. The cloud-based software will automate the operations of the Iraqi national carrier, manage complete records of its aircraft and enable the airway's staff to manage their operations and receive alerts on the go through its Mobility module, providing greater flexibility, optimized aircraft availability and reduced friction.

Ramco Aviation Software will also be integrated with enhanced inventory tracking and stock visibility capabilities enabling better resource management, unified employee records, and control operations end to end, on a single platform.

Virender Aggarwal, CEO, Ramco Systems, said: "We are happy to partner with Iraqi Airways to digitally transform their business. Infused with artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities, our Aviation ERP has gained the trust of leading operators in the industry. We look forward to working with Iraqi Airways to reduce inefficiencies and future-proof their operations through our innovative features."

Ramco Systems is an enterprise software, offering cloud and mobile-based enterprise software in the area of HCM and Global Payroll, ERP and M&E MRO for Aviation.

On a consolidated basis, Ramco Systems' net profit tanked 58.90% to Rs 7.45 crore on 12.55% decline in revenue from operations to Rs 149.86 crore in Q4 March 2021 over Q3 December 2020.

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The drug maker on Thursday announced that announced that the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) of India has approved TLC's New Drug Application (NDA) of Amphotericin B Liposome for injection 50 mg.

AmphoTLC is a liposomal amphotericin B injection indicated for severe systemic fungal infections such as mucormycosis. The drug is approved in Taiwan and has been marketed and sold for several years, with a steady increase in the market share each year.

AmphoTLC will be imported from Taiwan by Stelis Biopharma, the biotech arm of Strides group, and will be launched and distributed in India immediately by Strides Pharma Sciences.

With a soaring number of COVID19 infections in India, the number of COVID19 associated mucormycosis (CAM) cases has also been on the rise. Mucormycosis is a serious fungal infection also known as "black fungus". It has emerged as a postCOVID complication, infecting about 30% of COVID patients who are diabetic or otherwise immunocompromised. If the progression of infection is not treated early, over 60% of patients could die.

George Yeh, President of TLC said, "AmphoTLC is the first and only complex generic drug to have achieved bioequivalence to Gilead's AmBisome, proving its sameness to the safest form of amphotericin B in the world. We are glad that the result of years of our hard work can help India in its times of need. With this approval and prompt delivery of our product, thousands of patients will have the opportunity to receive early treatment with AmphoTLC, reducing the fatality rate brought on by the sudden influx of mucormycosis."

Dr R Ananthanarayanan, CEO and MD of Strides, said, "We are pleased to partner with TLC for the distribution of liposomal amphotericin B. This approval from CDSCO allows us to immediately import and distribute the product in India and help ease the crisis arising out of an unprecedented rise in Covid19 related mucormycosis cases. We have expanded our Covid19 portfolio further with the TLC partnership and reinforced our effort and commitment to fight against this global pandemic."

TLC is a clinical-stage specialty pharmaceutical company developing novel nanomedicines to target areas of unmet medical need.

Strides is a global pharmaceutical company headquartered in Bengaluru, India. The company mainly operates in the regulated markets and has an in Africa for Africa strategy along with an institutional business to service donor-funded markets. The company's global manufacturing sites are located in India (Chennai, Puducherry and two locations in Bengaluru), Singapore, Italy (Milan), Kenya (Nairobi) and the United States (Florida).

On a consolidated basis, the pharma company posted a 61.9% fall in net profit to Rs 35.16 crore on a 13.6% rise in net sales to Rs 832 crore in Q3 FY21 over Q3 FY20.

Shares of Strides Pharma Science were up 0.89% at Rs 819.80 on BSE.

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Tata Motors Ltd is quoting at Rs 321.1, up 1.77% on the day as on 12:49 IST on the NSE. The stock is up 269.08% in last one year as compared to a 61.58% spurt in NIFTY and a 72.08% spurt in the Nifty Auto index.

Tata Motors Ltd is up for a third straight session in a row. The stock is quoting at Rs 321.1, up 1.77% on the day as on 12:49 IST on the NSE. The benchmark NIFTY is up around 0.22% on the day, quoting at 15334.45. The Sensex is at 51123.32, up 0.21%. Tata Motors Ltd has risen around 4.97% in last one month.

Meanwhile, Nifty Auto index of which Tata Motors Ltd is a constituent, has risen around 6.55% in last one month and is currently quoting at 10437.8, up 0.77% on the day. The volume in the stock stood at 323.12 lakh shares today, compared to the daily average of 530.58 lakh shares in last one month.

The benchmark May futures contract for the stock is quoting at Rs 321.1, up 1.94% on the day. Tata Motors Ltd is up 269.08% in last one year as compared to a 61.58% spurt in NIFTY and a 72.08% spurt in the Nifty Auto index.

The PE of the stock is 0 based on TTM earnings ending March 21.

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Thirumalai Chemicals rose 3.52% to Rs 138.05 after the company announced plans to execute a project to manufacture 180,000 tons per year of phthalic anhydride (PA) and 30,000 tons per year of fine & specialty chemicals.

The project, to be executed at the company's existing site at Dahej, Gujarat, and Western India, would be implemented in two successive phases. The company expects to bring the first of these two phases on-stream in about 2 years after receipt of all needed approvals. It further informed that work has commenced on design & engineering of the plant.

The raw materials for this integrated plant will be sourced primarily within Gujarat; the finished products are aimed at the large West & North Indian markets, and at Exports.

Phthalic Anhydride (PA) has a wide variety of uses in colorants, polymer additives, reinforced polymers, fine chemicals, etc. India's consumption levels in PA and the above products are still very low compared to other countries, while demand growth has been strong. This project is expected to replace the large imports of PA and drive downstream growth in India.

The company has been a leading producer of phthalic anhydride and derivatives over 45 years; its range of products includes Maleic Anhydride (produced by its subsidiary), food ingredients and fine chemicals.

It presently has two manufacturing facilities - in South and West India; its subsidiary in Malaysia operates butane maleic anhydride & derivatives plants. All of these based on TCL's in-house process technologies and engineering capabilities.

The company sells its products primarily in India, South East Asia, Middle East and Europe, with some quantities in North America.

Thirumalai Chemicals further said that the commissioning of the company's first PA plant at Dahej, was delayed by the recent pandemic wave in Gujarat. Startup is now under progress, it added.

The company reported a consolidated net profit of Rs 84.67 crore in Q4 FY21, steeply higher than net profit of Rs 2.43 crore in Q4 FY20. Net sales remained flat at Rs 1085.74 crore during the quarter.

Thirumalai Chemicals manufactures and sells organic chemicals in India. It ranks among the largest producers in the world of phthalic anhydride, malic acid, maleic anhydride and fumaric acid.

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External Affairs Minister arrived here on Wednesday for a series of meetings with senior US officials during which they are expected to review the progress made in bilateral ties in the first 100 days of the Biden administration and lay the groundwork for the future.

During his three-day stay here, Jaishankar is scheduled to meet his American counterpart, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin and Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, along with other key members of the Biden administration.

It is the first visit by a senior Indian minister to the US after President assumed office on January 20.

The defence secretary will be meeting on Friday with Jaishankar, Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby told reporters at a news conference.

"The defence secretary is meeting with the external affairs minister, will continue discussions that the two held in New Delhi in March and will continue the robust bilateral defence and security relationship between our two countries. We are looking forward to having him here at the Pentagon and hosting him for a good set of talks," Kirby said.

"It will be a continuation of the discussion, the very productive discussions that we had when we were in New Delhi a month or so ago," he said, referring to Defence Secretary Austin's India visit in March.

Since India is a strategic defence partner, there is lots to discuss, Kirby told reporters in response to a question at his Pentagon news conference.

The State Department has not yet announced the timing of Blinken's meeting with Jaishankar at its Foggy Bottom headquarters. Blinken is currently travelling in the Middle East as asked by Biden to continue with the peace process.

"The secretary (of state) looks forward to meeting minister Jaishankar during his visit and discussing a broad range of issues, including COVID-19 relief, efforts to strengthen Indo-Pacific cooperation through the Quad, enhanced UN and multilateral cooperation, and a range of other shared regional security and economic priorities," a State Department spokesperson said earlier this week.

Procurement of coronavirus vaccines and raw materials to boost domestic production is expected to be a major focus area of Jaishankar's talks here.

Jaishankar is likely to press for further speeding up of the supply of raw materials from the US to boost vaccine production in India, which is currently reeling under the second wave of COVID-19 infections.

Ahead of arriving in Washington, Jaishanakar described India-US ties one of the major relationships in the world today.

He said the challenge before New Delhi and Washington is how to translate their fundamental, societal and geopolitical convergences into actionable policies.

Emphasising that he has "big agenda" for the US-India relationship going forward, Jaishankar said, "I think our relationship has come a long way. It's today one of the major relationships in the world and my own sense is that in Washington today, there is a real appreciation of the potential of this relationship, what it can do. And it's true of New Delhi as well."



During a virtual conversation on Wednesday with former US Security Adviser Gen. HR McMaster in Battlegrounds' session on 'India: Opportunities And Challenges For A Strategic Partnership' presented by the Hoover Institution, Jaishankar said that keeping in mind issues such as impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, rise of different powers, "today we all recognise that it's not a question of one or two or three countries who will decide how the world."



"The world is truly much more multipolar and if it is multipolar, then it's all the more important for countries to learn how to work with each other more effectively. And I see a big change in the American mindset..., Jaishankar said responding to a question on the trajectory of US-India relations.

"So the United States has not only an enormous ability to reinvent itself, it also has a great ability to assess its situation and re-strategise in a way."



Noting that when it comes to the big issues of the day, "maybe because we are pluralistic societies, because we are political democracies, because we are market economies, that we have fundamental convergences."



He said these convergences are societal and geopolitical. "I think the challenge before us is how to translate those convergences into actionable policies, he said, adding that he certainly looks forward to working on these with the Biden administration.

Jaishankar is expected to meet a group of eminent business leaders on Thursday at two different meetings organised by the US India Business Council and the US India Strategic and Partnership Forum.

Jaishankar, who was the Indian Ambassador to the US from December 2013 to January 2015, is also scheduled to have meetings with eminent American lawmakers. Congressman Brad Sherman, Co-Chair of the India Caucus, said he looks forward to meeting with Jaishankar, India's Ambassador to the US Taranjit Singh Sandhu and other leaders concerned with the US-India relationship for dinner on Wednesday.

"This is an opportunity to discuss how the US can further help India as it continues to battle COVID-19, global vaccine production and security issues in the Indo-Pacific," Sherman said.

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Congress leader on Thursday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention in the withdrawal of new regulations in Lakshadweep, saying they seek to penalise dissent and undermine grassroots democracy.

In a letter to the prime minister, he said all this is being done by the new Administrator Praful Khoda Patel in the guise of development and maintaining law and order.

"I request you to intervene in this matter and ensure that the above mentioned orders are withdrawn.The people of deserve a developmental vision that respects their way of life and reflects their aspirations," Gandhi told the prime minister.

Noting that Lakshadweep's pristine natural beauty and its unique confluence of cultures have drawn people for generations, he said the custodians of its heritage seek to safeguard the archipelago for posterity.

"However, their future is threatened by the anti-people policies announced by the administrator of Lakshadweep, Shri Praful Khoda Patel. The administrator has unilaterally proposed sweeping changes without duly consulting elected representatives or the public. The people of are protesting against these arbitrary actions," the former Congress chief said.

Gandhi said the administrator's attempt to undermine ecological sanctity of the island is evident in the draft Development Authority Regulation issued recently.

The provisions of the regulation, he said, undermine safeguards pertaining to land ownership, dilute environmental regulations for certain activities and severely limit legal recourse available to affected persons.

"Livelihood security and sustainable development are being sacrificed for short-term commercial gains. The provision in the draft Panchayat Regulation that disqualifies members with more than two children is blatantly anti-democratic," he said.

The Congress leader highlighted that the new administrator has also proposed changes to regulations like the Prevention of Anti-Social Activities Regulation, the Lakshadweep Animals Preservation Regulation and lifting of restrictions on sale of alcohol and termed them as a deliberate assault on the cultural and religious fabric of the local community.

He said the attempt to cut ties with the Beypore port strikes at the close historical and cultural ties with Kerala.

Despite the pandemic, the administration has demolished structures used by the fisherfolk, fired contractual workers in various government departments, and relaxed quarantine norms leading to a lethal spike in Covid cases, he charged.

"Under the guise of development and maintaining law and order in a low crime union territory, the draconian regulations penalise dissent and undermine grassroots democracy," Gandhi told the prime minister in his letter.

The Congress has been demanding the immediate recall of the Lakshadweep administrator, who it says is a politician and not a bureaucrat.

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Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K



Stalin on Thursday urged Prime Minister to recall administrator Praful Khoda Patel for imposing 'anti-people' laws in the union territory.

The action of administrator Patel in forcibly bringing in "anti-people" regulations to "alienate Muslims" living there is causing anguish, Stalin tweeted.

The Prime Minister's Office should intervene in the matter and ease him out of the office of administrator, he said adding "our country's strength is pluralism."



MDMK chief Vaiko, pointing to Development Authority Regulations and those on anti-social activity and animal preservation besides others said these were strongly condemnable as it infringed on the "basic rights" of the people.

The MDMK top leader, who is also a Rajya Sabha MP, fully backed the demand for the recall of administrator Patel.

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Fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi, who had recently fled from Antigua and Barbuda, was captured in neighbouring Dominica after an Interpol Yellow Notice was issued against him, the local media reported on Wednesday.

Police in Dominica captured Choksi on Tuesday night (local time) after an Interpol Yellow Notice was issued by Antigua and Barbuda.

Choksi had been living in Antigua and Barbuda since 2018 after taking the citizenship, Antigua News Room reported.

The Yellow Notice is issued by the Interpol to track missing persons.

The efforts are on to hand him over to the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, the local media reports stated.

Choksi, who is wanted in a Rs 13,500 crore loan fraud in Punjab National Bank, was last seen going for dinner in his car in Antigua and Barbuda on Sunday.

His staff had reported him missing after his car was found.

His lawyer Vijay Aggarwal had confirmed that Choksi had been missing since Sunday.

(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.)
Chinese electronics company is hosting a summit with Qualcomm, GSMA, and on June 3. At the summit, these ecosystem players will come together to discuss the growth opportunities of worldwide, its impact on consumers, and as an enabler of smart living. The speakers from these companies will also share insights on 5Gs role as an agent of change, its transformational impact on society, barriers to 5G adoption and 5G accelerating smart living.

5G is the network of the future. A future, which keeps inching closer to us each day. Industry leaders understand the critical breakthroughs 5G will bring and are steadily accelerating trials worldwide. The global 5G development has entered a new phase of momentum, said in a statement.

The theme of the event is Making 5G Global| Accessibility for All. The panel discussion brings together leaders from the ecosystem, for a discussion on the boundless possibilities of 5G.

The speakers will be:

Mr. Kalvin Bahia, Principal Economist, Intelligence

Mr. Peter Richardson, VP & Co-founder, Research

Mr. Rajen Vagadia, VP and President, India & SAARC

Mr. Madhav Sheth, CEO - India and Europe and VP - realme

Mr. Johnny Chen, Brand Director, realme

The event will livestream on YouTube on June 3 at 2:30 pm (IST). You can watch it here through the video embedded below.
Amid a row between the government and companies over the new rules, India on Thursday said it would strive to comply with the law but voiced concerns over the use of intimidation tactics by the police and potential threat to freedom of expression.

The statement earned a sharp retort from the government, which termed it an attempt to dictate its terms to the worlds largest democracy and asked to stop beating around the bush and comply with the law.

To keep our service available, we will strive to comply with applicable law in India. But just as we do around the world, we will continue to be strictly guided by principles of transparency, a commitment to empowering every voice on the service, and protecting freedom of expression and privacy under the rule of law, said a spokesperson.

Right now, we are concerned by recent events regarding our employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people we serve. We, alongside many in civil society in India and around the world, have concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police in response to enforcement of our global Terms of Service, as well as with core elements of the new IT Rules, the spokesperson added. The statement came a couple of days after WhatsApp moved the Delhi High Court against the new IT rules dubbing it an invasion of privacy.

Twitters comments received strongly worded counters from the Ministry of Electronics and (MeitY) and the Delhi Police. The Delhi Police described Twitter's statement as mendacious, while the ministry told Twitter that it had no locus in dictating what Indias legal policy framework should be.





ALSO READ: IT Rules: Legal experts weigh in on reasonable curbs to Right to Privacy

Earlier in the day, IT & law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad took to Twitter to say the government welcomes criticism, including the right to ask questions. But by the evening, the governments reply turned sharper, with MeitY saying: "Twitters statement is an attempt to dictate its terms to the worlds largest democracy."

The ministry further said the new IT rules were finalised after the "widest possible consultations, including with representatives of platforms" and "Twitter needs to stop beating around the bush and comply with the laws of the land. Law-making and policy formulations are the sole prerogative of the sovereign and Twitter is just a platform and it has no locus in dictating what India's legal policy framework should be.

The Delhi Police, in a separate statement, said Twitter was trying to gain "dubious sympathy," and should come forward to explain why it tagged some tweets as "manipulated media".



"Twitter Inc, while placing the cart before the horse, went ahead and declared that the toolkit was manipulated media. This clearly demonstrates that Twitter Inc was acquainted with the facts of the case and it had material information which was germane to the inquiry by a duly recognised law enforcement agency. Therefore, Twitter was asked, by way of multiple communications, to join the inquiry to provide the information it possesses," it said.

Its issue with Delhi Police:

The Delhi Police's Special Cell teams went to the offices of Twitter India in Delhi and Gurugram on Monday evening in connection with an ongoing matter of a toolkit allegedly made by the Congress, and tagging of some ruling party politicians' tweets as manipulated media. MeitY had earlier asked Twitter to take down the manipulated media tag.





ALSO READ: Twitter's allegation of 'intimidation tactics' by police baseless: Govt

Meanwhile, the (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021, published on February 25, also came into effect on May 25, which asks significant social media intermediaries (SSMIs) to appoint a chief compliance officer, a nodal contact person for 24x7 coordination with law enforcement agencies, and a resident grievance officer.

SSMIs must also be able to identify the first originator of problematic content that may harm the country's interests and several other provisions described in the rules. WhatsApp approached the Delhi High Court on May 25, the deadline for compliance, and said this provision would mean breaking end-to-end encryption on the platform.

A significant social media intermediary was defined as one with over 5 million registered users. This means all big technology firms like Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp and Google (YouTube) will have to comply with the new rules. This will also include Indian social media platforms like Koo, Chingari and Ropso.

We plan to advocate for changes to elements of these regulations that inhibit free, open public conversation. We will continue our constructive dialogue with the Indian government and believe it is critical to adopt a collaborative approach. It is the collective responsibility of elected officials, industry, and civil society to safeguard the interests of the public, the Twitter spokesperson said in the statement.

Twitter has further raised concerns about the requirement to make an individual (the compliance officer) criminally liable for content on the platform, the requirements for proactive monitoring, and the blanket authority to seek information about its customers, based on the new IT Rules.





ALSO READ: Indian govt exceeded powers with encryption-breaking rule: WhatsApp filing

According to the microblogging platform and privacy advocates, these requirements represent dangerous overreach.

Several industry groupings have urged MeitY to extend the IT rules compliance deadline by six months to a year, and also publish standard operating protocols (SOPs) on procedural aspects of compliance for public consultation.

According to Twitter, it was recently served with a non-compliance notice and has withheld a portion of the content identified in the blocking order under its Country Withheld Content policy. Under this policy, it can withhold certain content in a specific country, preventing the content from being visible in that country only. These will be visible outside the country.

The microblogging platform maintained that the reported content constitutes protected, legitimate free speech, under Indian and international law, but due to the laws limited scope under Section 69A of the IT Act, it has limited scope to defend the content. Not doing so poses penal consequences with many risks for Twitter employees, it said.
After a sale to Tinley Park fell through, Heidner agreed to a sale to Scannell at a significantly higher cost than what the village was willing to pay, according to Niemeyer, although he said he did not know what the sale price was and Heidner, through a spokeswoman, declined to say.
New Delhi [India], May 27 (ANI/Digpu): IMTS Institute provides free career counseling for a wide range of courses approved by UGC and other authorities to its students in management, Technical, Traditional, Computers, Research, Diploma, and certification courses.

IMTS Institute is one of the leading Institutes in India and has achieved memorable milestone of 25000 admissions. Students have given very good reviews about the Institute and most of their students are working in Top companies in India and abroad such as Google, Accenture, Facebook, TCS, HCL, Hero Honda, Maruti and many more MNC companies.

IMTS Institute Delivers the Best Career Guidance for students and working professionals:

Institute mission is to educate students in their respective fields such as Science, Humanities, Technology, Management, Computers and all other areas that will serve the nation and the world in the 21st century.

"We completely understand the confusion present in students' minds and try to remove it with our counseling cells. We know the level of stress in the student's mind after passing qualifying examinations before they go to choose courses for further studies. There are many cases available that students are confused about which course to choose," institute's spokesperson said.

He further added "Students who pursue courses in Distance Education or part-time mode find it difficult to connect directly with University after taking admission at times; students miss some significant announcements made by Universities; we try to connect the Student & the University so that they do not miss any information."

Categories of different streams.

1. Management

2. Science

3. Arts

4. Commerce

5. Engineering

6. Computer

7. Paramedical

8. Education

All Categories have courses like Diploma, Bachelors, Masters, PG Diploma & Certificate level.

IMTS Institute History:

In the Year 2005, the institute started IMTS with the vision to offer free counseling to help students to choose the right course from the right college or University. Institute's counselors have helped more than 25000 students to choose the right course, along with guidance on complete admission Process of UGC-approved universities.

The Management is planning to open an office in Dubai soon.

Online Admission Process anywhere in the world

If a student is not in India, student needs to take online counseling before taking admission. Institute's expert counselor will guide them over the phone or video call with the best online support. They can take admission in respective courses from the available University as per their requirement.

Is IMTS Approved By UGC or MHRD?

No, IMTS Institute is an authorized admission & study partner of a lot of universities and offers free career counseling to students for UGC & Govt. recognize courses to help them choose the right path to success in the future.

The Universities for which they provide counseling are approved by University Grants Commission (UGC), the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), and Distance Education Bureau (DEB).

Free Support Services

IMTS offers all Services on behalf of the University. In most cases, institute doesn't charge anything apart from the University fee.

Reason behind Trust IMTS institute

IMTS Institute has 99 per cent Positive reviews with a 4.8 star on Google, which is quite good rating. "We are not saying that we are the Best, but trying to do the best for all students. Out of 25000 Students, 99.8 per cent of students are happy with us, which is quite good.

We Suggest students and candidates to never trust unreliable and pirated websites as these sites choose a similar name to misguide people. We suggested Students to Trust only official website or Government website. We focus on Quality Education in India and Abroad." institute's spokesperson said.

For more information, visit (https://imtsinstitute.com) IMTS Institute.

This story is provided by Digpu. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/Digpu)

DISCLAIMER

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
New Delhi [India], May 27 (ANI/BusinessWire India): TradeIndia, the country's leading B2B online marketplace platform, is preparing to host its ninth landmark virtual event, the Medical and Healthcare Expo India 2021.

To be held between 10th to 12th June, the all-important medical exposition will help Indian manufacturers, suppliers and exporters of Medical & Healthcare Products, Hospital & Medical Supplies, Pharmaceuticals Drugs & Medicines and other Health & Beauty Products towards discovering novel business collaboration prospects and breakthroughs in the health sector.

With the aim of combating the pandemic through relentless effort, TradeIndia is enabling the Indian medical suppliers and manufacturers a platform to Connect with Global & Genuine Buyers Digitally, Showcase Products and Services to Visitors, Build Business Partnerships & Channels, attain qualified Leads & Appoint Distributors, and Exhibit in India's First & Largest Virtual medical and healthcare expo.

With traditional export markets worldwide going into lockdown again & business survival mode and the imposition of travel restrictions to control the Covid-19 outbreak in 2021, virtual or online trade shows are helping manufacturers, suppliers & exporters to Showcase their Medical & Healthcare Products and Services to the world, Keep the Economic Activity Wheel Moving, Be More Efficient & Cost-effective, Do More Business in Less Time, Get Access to the Internet Audience and Deal with the Buyers of 150+ Countries.

Today, lakhs of Buyers of Medical & Healthcare Products, Hospital & Medical Supplies, Pharmaceuticals Drugs & Medicines and other Health & Beauty Products, and Businesses are connecting through Virtual medium to fulfill their needs. More than 5 Virtual Tradefairs are already planned for year 2021 to contribute to a better future through cost and time effective Real Time Buyers Meeting, More Buyers & Visitors, More qualified Leads, Connect with Targeted Audience, 3D Product Display & Community Building, New Opportunities for Manufacturers, Eliminate Geographical Barriers, User-Friendly Access, and Modern Digital Technology.

Having been subjected to various travel restrictions and physical interaction due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the virtual healthcare tradeshow will allow businesses to commence real-time digital transactions via the digital medium, effectively. The Medical and Healthcare Expo India 2021 will feature a diverse array of critical product categories. The event is slated to be a potent and promising business networking platform that will facilitate both the buyers and sellers to achieve mouth-watering deals which will further accelerate their bid to rise ahead of their market competition.

"We are thrilled to conduct India's first virtual Healthcare and Medical Expo 2021 and our ninth tradeshow overall. While the pandemic has inflicted unprecedented hardships on businesses across the world, the second wave has seemingly plundered through our social canvass, leaving countless casualties and destruction in its wake. At such a desperate hour, TradeIndia is fulfilling its social obligation by orchestrating a virtual medical expo to benefit the country's healthcare sector. By empowering numerous manufacturers and suppliers to produce essential medical supplies and systems during the pandemic, our nation will not only strengthen its healthcare facilities but also extend a greater fighting chance to our country's people against the deadly virus," said Sandip Chhettri, CEO, Tradeindia.com, speaking before the tradeshow commencement.

The event will cover a plethora of visitors ranging from Traders, End Users, Manufacturers, Purchasers, Service Providers, Media Houses, Exporters, and E-Commerce Sellers. Furthermore, TradeIndia has already planned over 4-5 virtual trade fairs in 2021 for real-time engagement, gaining qualified leads, and a host of critical benefits that lead to a considerable business edge for any organization.

For more details, please visit here: (https://tradeshows.tradeindia.com/medical-healthcare-expo)

This story is provided by BusinessWire India. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/BusinessWire India)

DISCLAIMER

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Chinese vaccine maker's two inactivated Covid vaccines have demonstrated efficacy against the virus, a study published in the prestigious US medical journal, Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), shows. The confirmation on the efficacy of these vaccines comes in the backdrop of criticism of Chinese vaccine makers for not sharing enough data on efficacy and safety of these vaccines.

The two vaccines developed by China National Biotech Group Co, which is a unit of Sinopharm, showed the efficacy of 72.8 per cent and 78.1 per cent, respectively. The current efficacy rate largely falls in line with Sinopharm's previous claims.

Notably, Chinese companies have aggressively targeted vaccine distribution in developing countries -- from Pakistan to Hungary and Serbia to Peru. The criticism came after the Covid-19 graph continued to show an upward momentum even after they had inoculated a sizeable population.

This also led to hurdles in approval from drug regulators in many countries, including Singapore, and the World Health Organisation (WHO). The JAMA study analysed as many as 40,832 volunteers from countries like the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Egypt and Jordan.

Also read: China supports TRIPS waiver on COVID-19 vaccines proposed by India, South Africa

They were divided into three groups and either were administered both shots after three weeks, or a placebo. The results showed only 26 people developed Covid-19 infections, of which 21 had received both shots. It also showed that no volunteer developed a major illness after receiving the vaccine.

"The 2 vaccines had rare serious adverse events at a frequency similar to the alum-only control, and the majority were not related to the vaccinations. An exploratory analysis found that the 2 vaccines induced measurable neutralising antibodies, similar to results in the phase 1/2 trials," the study said.

The study results were submitted to the JAMA on March 17, which was accepted for publication on May 12.

The study also had several limitations. Firstly, it did not include pregnant women or those younger than 18 years; thus, the efficacy and safety of the inactivated vaccines in these groups remain unknown. Results from phase 1/2 trials among these groups have not been reported, but evaluation of the safety and immunogenicity of the two vaccines among children and adolescents is ongoing.

Also read: China rolls out first single dose COVID-19 vaccine

Second, the trial was mainly conducted in generally healthy, young men in the Middle East, and there was insufficient power to test the efficacy among those with chronic diseases, women, older adults, those in other geographic populations, and those with previous SARS-CoV-2 infections. This also includes people who are most vulnerable to severe COVID-19 cases and mortality.

Also read: Chinese COVID-19 vaccine Sinopharm gets WHO approval for emergency use
The Delhi High Court asked the Centre why high import duty was imposed on drugs essential to treat Mucormycosis, commonly known as black fungus. It suggested waiving off import and customs duties on drugs used for the treatment of black fungus. The HC said that the drug is required to save lives from a disease that is afflicting thousands across the country.

"The same drug is required to save the lives of people suffering from a serious disease which is afflicting thousands across the country. We are of the opinion that the Centre should seriously consider a waiver of customs duty/import duty for the period while the drug is in short supply in India," said the court.

Central government counsel Kirtiman Singh stated that this order will be communicated to the CBDT and the Secretary Finance, and a decision will be taken in the next couple of days.

"We direct that if any import is made by any person for these medicines, the same must be cleared after filing a bond instead of payment of duty for now," said the court adding that the bond should stated that the importer shall pay the duties in case Centre decides not to waive off duties. "An assurance is given that the customs will clear consignment of medicines without any delay," said the court. The court also questioned if it is fair to levy 30 per cent import duties on the black fungus drugs.

A bench of Justices Vipin Sanghi and Jasmeet Singh were hearing petitions regarding the COVID-19 situation in the national capital.

The court further stated that the government has to be on war-footing. "It has to be on war footing. Please understand that fight... every hour counts. We read it is available in Dubai, UAE," said the court, speaking about the drug.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Wednesday that the capital has 620 cases of Mucormycosis but Amphortericin B needed for the treatment is not easily available. "Day before yesterday and yesterday, we received around 400 doses, whereas in a day, one patient alone needs to be administered at least six injections of the medicine. So, if there are 600 patients, we need 3,500 injections daily, but are receiving only 400, which is leading to immense problems in its treatment," he said.

Also read: Black Fungus, White Fungus, Yellow Fungus: How are they different?

Also read: Black Fungus: 29,250 vials of Amphotericin- B allocated to states amid spike in Mucormycosis cases
Fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi, apprehended in Dominica, is expected to be deported directly to India soon.

Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne has said they have asked the Dominican government to detain Mehul Choksi and have him repatriated straight to India.

The fugitive diamantaire, wanted in the Rs 13,000 crore PNB scam case, had recently fled from Antigua and Barbuda and was captured in neighbouring Dominica following an Interpol Yellow Notice issued against him.

The Yellow Notice is issued by the Interpol to track missing persons.

Also Read: Mehul Choksi arrested in Dominica; to be handed over to Antigua Police

Meanwhile, Indian agencies and authorities are now exploring ways to bring him back to India, according to sources.

"We have asked the Dominican government to detain him for entering their country illegally and to make him persona non-grata and have him deported directly to India," PM Browne told India Today TV.

"We are in touch with the Indian High Commissioner to Antigua and Barbuda based in Guyana. If for legal reasons he returned to Antigua, then he would receive protection of the law," he added.

However, Antigua has now requested Dominica to hand over Mehul Choksi to the Indian agencies.

Also Read: Fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi goes missing in Antigua and Barbuda

"We are looking into how he made his escape. Investigations are underway. Will see if he had local help," said Browne, adding that Choksi's investments in Antigua were worth "peanuts."

He stated that the fugitive businessman's investment in Antigua was "just $100,000". PM Browne further said that "we would have returned the money to him if he gave up his citizenship."

Mehul Choksi took the water route to allegedly abscond from Antigua. He was caught by the authorities after reaching Dominica. Choksi had been living in Antigua and Barbuda since 2018 after taking citizenship of the country.
India's Syngene International Ltd aims to supply half-a-million vials of COVID-19 drug remdesivir through its local distribution partners next month, its top executive said, as the country faces shortages of the medicine amid a second wave. "At the moment we are operating at near maximum capacity (to produce remdesivir)," Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Hunt told Reuters on Wednesday.

"I'd expect the volume of drug that we are supplying into the Indian market to step up as we get into May," he added. Hunt did not provide details on how many vials the company has already delivered.

Syngene, majority owned by biopharmaceutical company Biocon Ltd, is one of the seven Indian companies that have licensed remdesivir from U.S.-based Gilead Sciences Inc. The seven companies together have a total installed capacity of about 3.9 million units per month.

"Across all seven manufacturers, (Syngene is) probably one of the smallest by capacity, but you are seeing everybody working round the clock...to boost the supply," Hunt said. This follows Gilead's announcement on Monday that it would donate a minimum of 450,000 vials of the drug to the Indian government.

The country's death toll from the pandemic crossed the 200,000 mark on Wednesday, worsened by shortages of hospital beds and medical oxygen.

Remdesivir is approved in India for restricted emergency use to treat severe COVID-19 cases, despite the World Health Organisation advising against using the drug due to doubts about its effectiveness in treating the infection. Indian health officials have said it is only to be used in a hospital setting for patients who need oxygen.

Syngene, headquartered in the southern technology hub of Bengaluru, offers contract research and manufacturing to global drugmakers. Its clients include U.S. pharma majors Amgen Inc and Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. The company late on Tuesday reported a 33.6% jump in consolidated profit to 1.61 billion rupees ($21.63 million) for the fourth-quarter ended March 31.

Also read: Zydus Cadila, TLC sign pact to launch critical black fungus drug in India
Zydus Cadila and Taiwan-based specialty pharmaceutical firm TLC on Wednesday said they have signed a pact to market Liposomal Amphotericin B, a critical drug to treat mucormycosis (black fungus), in India.

The companies have announced signing of an agrement to commercialise AmphoTLC (Amphotericin B Liposome for Injection 50mg) in India, Zydus Cadila said in a statement.

Under the terms of the agreement, TLC will manufacture and supply AmphoTLC on a non-exclusive basis to Zydus, and Zydus will commercialise the drug in India, it added.

"With India facing an acute shortage of the drug to treat mucormycosis, we are making this critical drug available in India on an immediate basis," Cadila Healthcare MD Sharvil Patel said.

The need of the hour is to tackle this life-threatening infection with a safe and effective therapy, he added.

TLC President George Yeh said, "...we will be delivering the first batch of AmphoTLC to India to help assuage the urgent need for one of the safest and most effective antifungal drugs very soon."

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization has approved the new drug application (NDA) of TLC for Amphotericin B Liposome for Injection 50mg for immediate importation as per approved usage and indication, Zydus Cadila said.

With black fungus cases rising in India in recent days, AmphoTLC will address the country's acute Liposomal Amphotericin B shortage, it added.

Mucormycosis is a serious fungal infection, also known as black fungus, and COVID-19 associated mucormycosis is life-threatening, the statement said.

AmphoTLC is a Liposomal Amphotericin B injection indicated for severe systemic fungal infections such as mucormycosis, it added.

Shares of Cadila Healthcare, the listed entity of Zydus Group, were trading at Rs 626.45 per scrip on BSE, up 0.64 per cent from the previous close.
Michael Larson, responsible for the management of the majority of billionaire Bill Gates' massive fortune, has been accused of workplace misconduct. Larson, who runs Cascade Investments, had created a "culture of fear" in his workplace where employee abuses had occurred.

According to an extensive investigation by New York Times, Larson had allegedly showed nude photos of women to colleagues, judged female employees by attractiveness, made sexually inappropriate comments on several occasions, made racist remarks, and bullied others. He even threatened to hurt the stock price of a company a female employee said she was joining after leaving Cascade.

Larson's company's function is to manage the fortune of Bill Gates and Melinda French who built an empire on global philanthropy. Larson invested Gates' money in hotels, stocks, bonds, farm land and even a bowling alley. This enabled Gates' fortune to soar from less than $10 billion to around $130 billion.

As many as six people, including four of Cascade employees, had complained to Gates about Larson's conduct. According to NYT, several complained to French too. It added that Cascade made payments to at least seven people who knew or witnessed Larson's behavior. In exchange, they agreed to never speak about their firm at the time. The perception of Gates' support allowed Larson to maintain a culture of fear inside Cascade's offices, stated the report.

Larson's spokesperson denied some but not instances of his misconduct to the daily. "During his tenure, Mr. Larson has managed over 380 people, and there have been fewer than five complaints related to him in total. Any complaint was investigated and treated seriously and fully examined, and none merited Mr. Larson's dismissal," said the spokesperson.

Gates' spokesperson said that Bill and Melinda Gates Investments has robust policies to deal with complaints at the workplace. BMGI's name is sometimes used interchangeably with Cascade. "BMGI takes all complaints seriously and seeks to address them effectively to guarantee a safe and respectful workplace. BMGI does not tolerate inappropriate behavior," said a spokesperson adding that "any issue raised over the company's history has been taken seriously and resolved appropriately."

A spokeswoman for French, said, "Melinda unequivocally condemns disrespectful and inappropriate conduct in the workplace. She was unaware of most of these allegations given her lack of ownership of and control over BMGI."

Larson told the daily, "Calling BMGI a toxic work environment is unfair to the 160 professionals who make up our team and our culture."

Also read: Bill Gates' divorce with Melinda Gates: What is the Jeffrey Epstein link?

Also read: Microsoft investigated Bill Gates' 'intimate relationship' with employee before he quit: Report
After his arrest in Dominica, authoities of the Carribean island nation said they are in touch with their counterparts in Antigua and Barbuda to ascertain certain details related to fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi, including status of his Antiguan citizenship. Once the required information is provided by Antiguan authorities, Choksi will be repatriated to Antigua and Barbuda, stated the Dominican Home Ministry.

"The Ministry of National Security and Home Affairs confirms that Mehul Choksi, citizen of India and who is wanted by the Indian Authorities has been detained by law enforcement for illegal entry into Dominica. A red alert has also been issued by Interpol bearing Choksi's name. The Ministry of National Security and Home Affairs is in communication with the authorities of Antigua and Barbuda to ascertain some facts including the status of his Antiguan Citizenship. Once the information is provided by the Antigua authorities, possible arrangements will be made for Mr. Mehul Choksi to be repatriated to Antigua," the official statement from the ministry read.

Choksi is one of the prime accussed in the Rs 14,700-crore PNB scam, along with his nephew Nirav Modi. While Modi is incarcerated in London and in contesting his extradition to India in UK courts, Chokis had been hiding in Antigua and Barbuda.

Choksi took the citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda in 2017 via the citizenship by investment route. He and Modi fled India in January 2018 before the scam could be brought into public light.

ALSO READ: Mehul Choksi arrested in Dominica; to be handed over to Antigua Police

After someone from his household revealed that Choksi has been missing, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda had started looking into the matter. A manhunt to find him was launched on Sunday last week. Interpol had been notified of the development; the international agency had in turn issued red alert against Choksi.

Choksi is facing two cases in Antigua and Barbuda - one is related to his extradition to India and the second one is revocation of his Antiguan citizenship.

Local media reports had said Choksi was last seen driving in the southern area of the island on Sunday. He was reportedly going for dinner at a well-known restaurant. Police had recovered his vehicle but were unable to trace him.

He was finally apprehended in Dominica on Wednesday. Following his arrest, the Antiguan PMO has asked Dominican government to treat Choksi as persona non grata and deport him directly to India for entering the country illegally. Persona non grata in diplomatic terms refers to situation where diplomatic immunity of an individual from arrest and persecution is revoked.

ALSO READ: Fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi goes missing in Antigua and Barbuda
Share of pharma firm Pfizer slipped 3% today after the company reported a 2.38 per cent decline in net profit to Rs 100.55 crore in Q4 against net profit of Rs 103.01 crore for the corresponding period of the previous fiscal.

The stock has fallen after 3 days of consecutive gain.The large cap share touched an intraday low of Rs 5111, down2.97% against previous close of Rs 5,267.80 on NSE.

Pfizer share trades higher than 50 day, 100 day and 200 day moving averages but lower than 5 day and 20 day moving averages. The stock has gained 23.12% in one year and risen 1.54% since the beginning of this year.

Market cap of the firm fell to Rs 23,726 crore. Revenue from operations stood at Rs 534.76 crore in Q4 against Rs 502.01 crore for the corresponding period a year ago.

For full fiscal, net profit came at Rs 497.61 crore against Rs 509.13 crore in the previous fiscal. Revenue from operations for the fiscal ended March 2021 rose to Rs 2,238.55 crore against Rs 2,151.65 crore in 2019-20.

The Board has recommended a normal dividend of Rs 30 per equity share of Rs 10 each and a special dividend of Rs 5 per share, aggregating to a total dividend of Rs 35 per share for 2020-21.
Steele is wanted on an arrest warrant. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the the Elgin Police Department by calling 847-289-2660 or sending a text to 847411, which can be anonymous. ElginPD should be typed at beginning of the message.
Highlights Google will actively support the new IT rules being established in India.

The company's local team is engaged in meeting the requirements of the new IT laws.

Pichai highlighted similar compliance by Google with other countries and their regulatory framework.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai has extended the tech major's support for the new regulatory frameworks by the Government of India. Pichai said that the company is committed to complying with the local laws and will engage constructively with the government.

The remarks were made by Pichai during a virtual conference with select reporters from the Asia Pacific. Addressing the conference, Pichai said, "It's obviously early days and our local teams are very engaged... we always respect local laws in every country we operate in, and we work constructively. We have clear transparency reports, when we comply with government requests, we highlight that in our transparency reports."

Pichai further highlighted Google's similar attempts across the world to adapt to the evolving regulatory frameworks around technology and its uses. He said, "we fully expect governments rightfully to both scrutinize and adopt regulatory frameworks. Be it Europe with copyright directive or India with information regulation etc, we see it as a natural part of societies figuring out how to govern and adapt themselves in this technology-intensive world."

Pichai also spoke on the importance of free and open internet. He pointed out that Google advocates for the same and engages constructively with regulators around the world to enable this for its users.

The remarks come in response to the new information technology rules by the GOI for social media companies operating in India. In effect from Wednesday, the new laws are aimed at making digital platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter, Instagram and Google more accountable for the content hosted on their platforms.

For this accountability, new mandates have been brought in place under the IT laws. Some of these include the appointment of a chief compliance officer, nodal contact person and resident grievance officer for each of these digital platforms in the country. They also seek to establish a complaint redressal mechanism for these platforms, requiring them to have a physical contact address in the country. These companies will also be required to come up with a monthly compliance report, sharing details of complaints received and the action taken, both on the complaints, as well as proactively towards any illicit content.

(With inputs from PTI)
The Centre has given digital media publishers, comprising online news and OTT platforms 15 days' time to provide details on their compliance with the new guidelines on digital media ethics issued in February.

The new rules were announced by the central government to "establish a soft touch progressive institutional mechanism with a level playing field featuring a Code of Ethics and a three-tier grievance redressal framework for news publishers and OTT platforms on the digital media".

The Code of Ethics will be applicable to digital media and online news entities, OTT platforms and digital media.

Also Read: MeitY defends new social media rules after WhatsApp lawsuit, assures right to privacy

Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar told India Today TV that the tightening of the guidelines governing streaming companies and social media was being done to check the spread of fake news.

The new rules, which were announced on February 25, require large social media players to follow additional due diligence, including the appointment of a chief compliance officer, nodal contact person, and resident grievance officer.

The rules also require these platforms to remove any content flagged by authorities within 36 hours, and take down posts depicting nudity or morphed photos within 24 hours of receiving a complaint.

The new guidelines mandate setting up a robust complaint redressal mechanism with an officer being based in the country, and significant social media companies will have to publish a monthly compliance report disclosing details of complaints received and action taken, as well as details of contents removed proactively.

Also Read: WhatsApp sues Indian govt, says new media rules mean end to privacy

They will also be required to have a physical contact address in India published on its website, mobile app, or both. The new rules also require significant social media intermediaries -- providing services primarily in the nature of messaging -- to enable identification of the "first originator" of information that undermines the sovereignty of India, security of the state, or public order.

"They will have to have a grievance redressal mechanism, a grievance officer who shall register the grievance within 24 hours and disposal in 15 days," Union Information and Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said.

News publishers on digital media are bound to follow the Norms of Journalistic Conduct of the Press Council of India and the Programme Code under the Cable Television Networks Regulation Act.

Also Read: WhatsApp users should not fear new social media rules: Ravi Shankar Prasad

Although there has been a lot of criticism surrounding the new rules for digital media, Javadekar defended the guidelines, saying people are happy.

"People are happy with the guidelines," Javadekar said while rejecting the charge that the stakeholders were not consulted before issuing the new rules.

Digital rights and free speech activists have critiqued the new rules, saying they encourage censorship and violate the privacy rights of users, including the fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression, as guaranteed under the constitution.
Highlights Switching from postpaid to prepaid and vice versa can be a task but not anymore.

Subscribers can soon switch to a prepaid connection from a post-paid connection using an OTP-based authentication.

If the COAI gets the approval, it would let users change to postpaid from prepaid and vice versa in less than 10 minutes.

Switching from postpaid to prepaid and vice versa can be a task but not anymore. According to the latest announcement by the Department of Telecom (DoT), subscribers can soon switch to a prepaid connection from a post-paid connection using an OTP-based authentication. The regular process involves going to the nearest service store and applying for a new SIM but the upcoming OTP based authentication will make the process simpler. It will eradicate the need to get a new SIM.

As per a PTI report, the Industry body Cellular Operators' Association of India has proposed the idea to the Department of Telecom (DoT). The note by the Department of Telecom says that the final decision will depend on the outcome of PoC or the proof of concept. If the telecom operators manage to generate the PoC, the users will be allowed to easily switch from postpaid to prepaid using an OTP.

"The PoC for conversion from prepaid to postpaid and vice versa may be carried out by the telecom service providers as per the procedure...The decision regarding implementation of the procedure shall be taken after the assessment of the outcome of the PoC," DoT ADG Suresh Kumar said in a statement.

The Cellular Operators Association of India which has members including Reliance Jio, Airtel, Vodafone had submitted a request to the DoT to let users migrate from post-paid to prepaid without following the KYC procedure and using the OTP-based authentication. If the proposal is accepted, it would save a lot of time for the users who are planning to switch from prepaid to postpaid and vice versa. The number remains the same, the contacts remain the same, so why should there be a need to get a new SIM? The current rule requires the users are to produced identity cards and other documents to get a new SIM. Moreover, during COVID times, the OTP-based authentication would prove to be really useful as it would eradicate the need to step out of the home.

"OTP based authentication has become an acceptable norm in all sectors in the recent past and most of the citizen-centric services are being offered with OTP authentication. Contactless services in the present era are to be promoted for subscriber convenience and also for ease of doing business," the note said.

If the COAI gets the approval, it would let users change to postpaid from prepaid and vice versa in less than 10 minutes.
Highlights Twitter has requested the Ministry to consider a minimum of three months extension for it to implement new rules.

The company says it is concerned about the requirement to make an individual criminally liable for content on the platform.

Twitter India says that it has been in regular dialogue with the government for several months.

Twitter has finally responded to India's new IT rules and said it would strive to comply with applicable law in India. Replying to a query, Twitter tells India Today Tech that it is particularly concerned about the requirement to make an individual (the compliance officer) criminally liable for content on the platform, the requirements for proactive monitoring, and the blanket authority to seek information about our customers.

Twitter goes on to add that this represents dangerous overreach that is inconsistent with open, democratic principles.

"Twitter is deeply committed to the people of India. Our service has proven vital for the public conversation and a source of support for people during the pandemic. To keep our service available, we will strive to comply with applicable law in India. But, just as we do around the world, we will continue to be strictly guided by principles of transparency, a commitment to empowering every voice on the service, and protecting freedom of expression and privacy under the rule of law," a Twitter spokesperson said.

Twitter has also urged the Ministry of Electronics and IT to publish these Standard Operating Protocols on procedural aspects of compliance for public consultation.

The company also requested an extension in order for Twitter to implement the rules. Twitter India requested the Ministry to consider a minimum of three months extension for Twitter to implement the Rules.

The company added that it continues to accept grievances from users and law enforcement via its existing grievance redressal channel available here under the new Rules.

The company also expressed how it feels about recent events in India where it was served notice.

"Right now, we are concerned by recent events regarding our employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people we serve. We, alongside many in civil society in India and around the world, have concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police in response to enforcement of our global Terms of Service, as well as with core elements of the new IT Rules," a Twitter spokesperson said.



"We plan to advocate for changes to elements of these regulations that inhibit free, open public conversation. We will continue our constructive dialogue with the Indian Government and believe it is critical to adopt a collaborative approach. It is the collective responsibility of elected officials, industry, and civil society to safeguard the interests of the public," the spokesperson added.

While talking about withholding a few accounts, Twitter adds that it has been served with a non-compliance notice and has withheld a portion of the content identified in the blocking order under its Country Withheld Content policy. However, the company adds that in keeping with its principles of defending protected speech and freedom of expression, it has not taken any action on verified accounts that consist of news media entities, journalists, activists, and politicians.

According to Twitter, the escalated content constitutes legitimate free speech. Yet, due to the law's limited scope under Section 69A, which gives limited room to an intermediary to defend the content, it was compelled to withhold in response to a non-compliance notice. Not doing so poses penal consequences with many risks for Twitter employees, adds the company.
Kymeta Corporation (www.kymetacorp.com)the communications company making mobile globalannounced today that the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) has approved a $30 million investment by Hanwha Systems Co., Ltd. (HSC) (www.hanwha.com), a leading global solutions company that provides differentiated smart technologies in defense electronics and information infrastructure, in Kymeta.

The approval provided by CFIUS clears the way for HSC and Kymeta to close on the transaction that was jointly announced last December. The investment moves Kymeta one step closer toward developing solutions that are future proof and interoperable with both LEO and GEO mega constellations. Today, the Kymeta u8 is the only commercially available flat panel antenna that is compatible with LEO and GEO satellite constellations and enabled to take advantage of the growing capacity within space.

We are thrilled that the investment is approved and eager to leverage Kymetas expertise in hybrid satellite and cellular connectivity solutions, said Youn Chul Kim, CEO of HSC. Kymetas solutions will further our aerospace capabilities and deliver reliable communications for our defense customers.

We look forward to moving ahead and working with HSC, said Doug Hutcheson, Executive Chairman, Kymeta. We believe this investment will be instrumental in enabling the continued innovation, advancement and commercialization of Kymetas connectivity solutions. Were excited about the future of Kymeta and the LEO satellite market.

The investment from HSC will further Kymetas global market reach, accelerate production, and improve the overall growth trajectory of the company. The funding will support increased unit production, enhanced customer experience, and the ongoing development of Kymetas next generation capabilities. With the capital investment HSC will also receive a seat on the Kymeta Board of Directors.

HSC plans to support Kymetas metamaterial-based antenna technology and gain a foothold in the rapidly growing Low Earth Orbit (LEO) antenna market.

About Kymeta

Kymeta is unlocking the potential of broadband satellite connectivity, combined with cellular networks, to satisfy the overwhelming demand for comms on the move and making mobile global. Lepton Global Solutions, a Kymeta company, hosts the companys satellite connectivity solutions and offers unique, complete, and turnkey bundled solutions to the market based on best-in-class technologies and tailored customer-centric services that meet and exceed customer mission requirements. These solutions in tandem with the companys flat-panel satellite antenna, the first of its kind, and Kymeta Connect services provide revolutionary mobile connectivity on satellite and hybrid satellite-cellular networks to customers around the world. Backed by U.S. and international patents and licenses, the Kymeta terminal addresses the need for lightweight, slim, and high-throughput communication systems that do not require mechanical components to steer toward a satellite. Kymeta makes connecting easy  for any vehicle, vessel, or fixed platform.

Kymeta is a privately held company based in Redmond, Washington.

For more information, visit kymetacorp.com.

About Hanwha Systems

HSC is a leading global solutions company providing differentiated smart technologies in defense electronics and information infrastructure. Since its founding in 1978, the Hanwha Systems has significantly advanced the defense capabilities of South Koreas military. The company has spent more than 40 years developing systems used globally, which are used to develop advanced systems for surveillance, reconnaissance, control, communication, computer, and intelligence (C4I), naval and land.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210526005324/en/
Insert after second paragraph, third sentence of release: In addition, there are also keynotes delivering from Intel Innovation Unleashed and NVIDIA The Transformational Power of Accelerated Computing, from Gaming to the Enterprise Data Center.

The updated release reads:

GET READY, ITS COMING NEXT WEEK! WHAT TO EXPECT AT COMPUTEX 2021

COMPUTEX 2021 will be launched from May 31 to June 30. The organizer, the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), will roll out the #COMPUTEXVirtual platform to connect the technology community that breaks geographic limitations. COMPUTEX 2021 will offer an exceptional exhibition experience to attendees with the following highlights.

Highlight #1: Top Speakers Will Address on the Groundbreaking Technologies

COMPUTEX 2021 will kick off with the highly anticipated CEO Keynotes. From May 31 to June 2, key industry executives will discuss topics covering AI, high-performance computing (HPC), and other technology trends. Simon Segars, CEO of Arm, Dr. Lisa Su, President and CEO of AMD, Sanjay Mehrotra, President and CEO of Micron, Charles Liang, Founder, President and CEO of Supermicro, and Kurt Sievers, President and CEO of NXP Semiconductors are among the speaker lineup. In addition, there are also keynotes delivering from Intel Innovation Unleashed and NVIDIA The Transformational Power of Accelerated Computing, from Gaming to the Enterprise Data Center.

The COMPUTEX Forum on June 2 and 3 will revolve around the theme of "The New Era of Intelligence," focusing on key applications of AI, 5G, IoT, and electric vehicles. The forum will unlock the development of quantum computers and explore the infinite possibilities of future technology applications. The world's leading ICT experts will discuss business strategies and pulse industry trends in the post-pandemic era.

Highlight #2: Virtual Booths Will Showcase the Latest Products

#COMPUTEXVirtual, the all-new smart online platform, will use AI and automation technology to create an exceptional digital journey for users by providing a personalized interactive experience. Visitors will be able to obtain the latest product information in real-time.

Acer will showcase its very latest products and innovations that will be announced at its [email protected] Global Press Conference to be held on May 27. It will also showcase solutions from its subsidiaries, including products for smart cities, AI, and enterprise use. ZOTAC, on the other hand, will be revealing a brilliant lineup of innovations, including the ZOTAC GAMING GeForce 3090 AMP Extreme Holo graphics card and the MAGNUS ONE ECM53060C mini PC.

Along with the big corporates, innovative startups are always the core elements to drive COMPUTEX and all the industry moving forward. The Epoch Foundation, committed to building partnerships in the global entrepreneurial community, has created a pavilion titled Garage+ 46 Must-See Startups on the #COMPUTEXVirtual platform. The exhibition is divided into three sections: AI & Big Data, Digital Health & EdTech, and IoT & Energy.

Moreover, #COMPUTEXVirtual builds #InnoVEXVirtual as a featured exhibit area to help startups connect with the international community. In addition to French Pavilion, Korean Pavilion, and the Dutch Pavilion, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is bringing 18 startups from 7 countries to join InnoVEX for the first time.

Highlight #3: Effective Online Platform Functions Will Synergize Matchmaking Opportunities

To maximize the benefits for exhibitors, #COMPUTEXVirtual will provide multiple effective, timely communication channels for exhibitors and visitors, such as video conferencing, meeting requests and instant messaging. Exhibitors can use AI technology to identify target audiences and promote products. Hyper-Personalized Recommendations will also help increase the matchmaking accuracy and enable companies to seize business opportunities effectively.

Together with the technology giants and disruptive startups, COMPUTEX 2021 is ready to bring the world an all-new digital experience. For more exhibition information, please visit the following:

#COMPUTEXVirtual Online Exhibition Visitor Registration: https://virtual.computextaipei.com.tw/

COMPUTEX CEO Keynote and COMPUTEX Forum Registration: https://virtual.computextaipei.com.tw/events/

About COMPUTEX TAIPEI (also called COMPUTEX):

Established in 1981, COMPUTEX is one of the leading global ICT, IoT, and startup tradeshows with a complete supply chain and IoT ecosystems. Co-organized by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) and Taipei Computer Association (TCA), COMPUTEX, based upon Taiwans complete ICT clusters, covers the whole spectrum of the ICT industry, from established brands to startups and from ICT supply chain to IoT ecosystems. With strong R&D and manufacturing capabilities and IPR protection, Taiwan is a strategic destination for foreign companies and investors looking for partners in global technology ecosystems. Follow COMPUTEX on its website at www.computextaipei.com.tw and Twitter @computex_taipei using the hashtag #COMPUTEX.

About COMPUTEX 2021 Virtual:

As a pioneer in technology, COMPUTEX has been at the forefront in embracing digital transformation. In 2021, the show will go online. Together with the key global technology players, the organizer of COMPUTEX,Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) introduces #COMPUTEXVirtual (including its global startups and innovations showcase #InnoVEXVirtual), an AI-driven virtual platform, and aims to deliver an exceptional virtual exhibition experience beyond the distance.

About TAITRA:

Founded in 1970, TAITRA is Taiwan's foremost nonprofit trade promoting organization. Sponsored by the government and industry organizations, TAITRA assists enterprises to expand their global reach. Headquartered in Taipei, TAITRA has a team of 1,300 specialists and operates 5 local offices in Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Taichung, Tainan and Kaohsiung, as well as 63 branches worldwide. Together with Taipei World Trade Center (TWTC) and Taiwan Trade Center (TTC), TAITRA has formed a global network dedicated to promoting world trade.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210526005459/en/
Midland Credit Management India

News Summary

Midland Credit Management (MCM)  an Encore Capital Group company  with a 2,300-person service delivery line in India, decided to tackle the challenge at multiple levels to address the needs of its employees, their families, and the nearby community.
The second Qingdao Multinationals Summit scheduled from July 15 to 16 in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, will seek to promote high-quality opening-up and boost the development of multinational corporations in the country.



The summit will discuss the role of multinational companies in reshaping the global industrial chain, Vice Commerce Minister Qian Keming told a press conference on Wednesday.

He added that a report to elaborate the role of multinationals in China's new development paradigm of "dual circulation" and new opportunities for their development under this paradigm will also be published.

So far, 330 representatives of 310 multinational companies from 26 countries and regions have signed up for offline events, together with 182 representatives from 169 multinational companies based in China, said Ji Binchang, vice governor of the province.

Co-hosted by China's Ministry of Commerce and the Shandong provincial government, the summit will witness a slew of activities including closed-door meetings, themed salons, parallel panels and roadshows, according to the vice governor.

The first Qingdao Multinationals Summit was held in October 2019 in Qingdao, with a total of 115 Fortune 500 companies and 284 industry leaders attending the event.
The central government has offered to send Covid-19 vaccines to Taiwan to help tackle the latest flare-up on the island which has reported triple-digit increases in coronavirus cases for 11 consecutive days.

Taiwan declared 304 newly confirmed cases Wednesday, including 302 local infections, the 10th day the number of cases had topped 200. It also reported 331 retroactively added cases, according to the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control.

The coronavirus surge started on May 15 when the island reported 185 cases. The number of cases was just 29 on May 14.

Zhu Fenglian, the spokesperson for Chinas Taiwan Affairs Office, said at a press conference Monday that the mainland is very worried about the epidemic currently raging in Taiwan and is willing to offer domestically made vaccines.

We are willing to make arrangements quickly so that the vast majority of Taiwan compatriots will have mainland vaccines to use as soon as possible, Zhu said.

There are less than 1 million doses of Covid-19 vaccines currently available in Taiwan, Caixin has learned. Amid the current flare-up, and with a population of more than 23 million, it is on the brink of running out of vaccines.

Taiwan leader Tsai Ing-wen said the island has ordered nearly 30 million doses, mostly from British pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca PLC, but they are all on the way, with the first 2 million reportedly expected to arrive in June.

Zhu said some non-governmental organizations in Shanghai and Beijing have offered to donate their first batch of vaccines to Taiwan.

This was echoed by Shi Qianghua, secretary general of Shanghai Health and Medical Development Foundation, who said the foundation is willing to donate a batch of Covid-19 vaccines to Taiwan compatriots. Shi hoped Taiwan could remove obstacles to facilitate delivery as soon as possible.

Wu Yifang, president and CEO of Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical (Group) Co. Ltd. (600196.SS), said during an interview with the state-run Xinhua News Agency that Fosun has been actively promoting the provision of vaccines to Taiwan through multiple channels since 2019.

Wu also said Fosun has signed an agreement with Germany-based vaccine-maker BioNTech SE to participate in research and development of its mRNA vaccine, and secured exclusive commercial rights for the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan.

Local authorities in Taiwan have appealed to Taipei for permission to purchase Covid-19 vaccines from the mainland. They also have suggested that Taipei authorities negotiate with Fosun to purchase its exclusively-owned BioNTech vaccine, according to local media reports.

Yang Cheng-wu, head of Kinmen island, located off the coast of East Chinas Fujian province, said the local authorities should be allowed to purchase vaccines that meet international standards as soon as possible.

Kinmen has only 600 available vaccine doses, with 200 more on the way, Yang said. The number is far from sufficient, Yang said, as the county has 140,000 registered residents.

Contact reporter Wang Xintong (xintongwang@caixin.com) and Lu Zhenhua (zhenhualu@caixin.com)

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In todays Caixin energy news wrap: NDRC releases action plan for pricing overhaul during the 14th Five-Year Plan; Inner Mongolia tightens measures to punish crypto mining; CATL will release sodium-ion batteries in July; state market regulator drops antitrust probe into Minmetals-Alibaba deal

NDRC issues energy pricing overhaul plan

Chinas National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) outlined the next steps in the restructuring of energy prices during the 14th Five-Year Plan in an action plan issued Tuesday. Pricing of power transmission and distribution should be further overhauled; the market-oriented restructuring of on-grid prices should continue; the pricing mechanisms for wind power, solar power and pumped-storage hydroelectricity should be improved; and a pricing mechanism should be established for new energy storage, the commission said. As for high energy-consuming and high-emission industries, green electricity price policies  such as differential or tiered pricing  should be adjusted to facilitate energy conservation and carbon emissions reduction. In addition, the restructuring of petroleum and natural gas prices should make steady progress to meet the requirements of a national pipe network, while the pricing mechanism for the pipeline transport of natural gas should also be improved, the NDRC said.

Inner Mongolia proposes new measures to punish virtual currency mining

North Chinas Inner Mongolia divulged more plans to crack down on cryptocurrency mining, including the closing of businesses, as part of its efforts to slash energy consumption over the next few years. The autonomous regions government would revoke the license of any telecommunications and internet companies that engage in cryptocurrency mining, according to a list of proposed measures issued Tuesday for public comments by the Inner Mongolia Development and Reform Commission.

CATLs new batteries attempt to supplant lithium batteries

Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL) will release sodium-ion batteries in July, the company confirmed to Caixin. The company did not disclose specific information about the new product. The advantage of sodium-ion batteries is that they may alleviate the battery industrys current dependence on imported lithium, according to Huaan Securities. Lithium batteries main area of application is electric cars. According to data from the China Automotive Power Battery Industry Innovation Alliance, domestic installed capacity of batteries reached 31.6 gigawatt-hours from January to April 2021, a year-on-year increase of 241.1%.

Zhejiang New Energy gets listed in Shanghai

Zhejiang New Energy Investment Group Co. Ltd. (600032.SH), a subsidiary of Zhejiang Energy Group Co. Ltd., hit the main board of the Shanghai Stock Exchange Tuesday, becoming the fourth listed unit of Zhejiang Energy Group. The offering price was 3.51 yuan ($0.50) a share, 30.03 times of the companys earnings. Zhejiang New Energy issued 208 million shares, accounting for 10% of total equity. As of the end of 2020, its operational power stations had installed capacity of 268.61 million kilowatts, which included 794,200 kilowatts of hydroelectricity, 1,573,550 kilowatts of photovoltaic electricity and 318,300 kilowatts of wind power.

Trustbuster drops Minmetals-Alibaba inquiry

The State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) gave notice it plans no further investigation into suspected illegal concentration of business operators, Minmetals Development Co. Ltd. (600058.SH) said. According to the regulators preliminary investigation, Minmetals established Minmetals E-Commerce Co. Ltd. in May 2012, and Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. acquired a 44% stake in the business in May 2016. SAMR decided not to investigate the deal any further under Chinas Anti-Monopoly Law, the company said.

GuiDong Electric Powers second unit connected to power grid

Guangxi GuiDong Electric Power Co. Ltd. (600310.SH) said Tuesday its second 350,000-kilowatt unit in the Hezhou Coal-Fired Power Generation Project successfully completed a 168-hour full-load trial operation and was connected to the power grid. So far GuiDongs Guangxi Guixu Energy Development Investment Co. Ltd. unit has successfully connected two generating units to the power grid.

Hubei to set up fund for peak carbon dioxide emissions

Hubei province will push for the establishment of a comprehensive platform for green, low-carbon industrial services and plan for construction of the Yangtze River International Industrial Park, a local newspaper reported. As green finance is already established, an official in Wuhan said the city will seize the opportunity to set up a special peak carbon dioxide emissions fund and a guidance fund for green and low-carbon industries to steer capital toward the green industry.

Chinas first autonomous heavy-duty gas turbine control system put into operation

Chinas first automated heavy-duty gas turbine control system was successfully connected to the grid and put into operation at China Huadian Corp. Ltd.s Longyou power plant. The operation marks the countrys complete mastery of key technologies in independent design, production, commissioning and systems improvement, effectively promoting gas turbines, Huadian said.

Guiyang seeks comments on hydrogen fueling station rules

Chinas southwestern city of Guiyang issued draft rules on the construction and operation of vehicle hydrogen fueling stations. According to the document, newly built vehicle hydrogen fueling stations must conform to urban-rural construction planning, territory spatial planning and the vehicle hydrogen fueling station network layout. The draft will be open for comments until May 30.

Contact editor Bob Simison (bobsimison@caixin.com)

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Chinas benchmark Shanghai Composite Index (000001.SH) gained 0.43% on Thursday, while the Shenzhen Component Index (399001.SZ) rose 0.7%.

Shanghais tech-heavy STAR 50 Index (000688.SH) gained 2.47% for the day, while Shenzhens similar ChiNext Index (399006.SZ) rose 0.92%.

Below is a rundown of the top China business and finance stories, plus other news for the day:

 China Charges Ex-Professor at Japanese University With Spying for Tokyo

A spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry said Yuan Keqin made a full confession to his crimes

 China and U.S. Lead Trade Negotiators Talk for First Time Since Biden Took Office

Chinas Vice Premier Liu He spoke with U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai over the phone Thursday, signaling a resumption of economic and trade talks

 Energy Insider: NDRC Outlines Sweeping Goals to Overhaul Energy Pricing; Inner Mongolia Raises the Stakes in Cryptocurrency Crackdown; CATL Plans Lithium Battery-Killer

Trustbuster drops Minmetals-Alibaba probe; Zhejiang New Energy hits the Shanghai main board; Hubei to set up peak carbon fund; Guiyang proposes hydrogen fueling rules

 Three Newborns Die in E. Coli Outbreak at Inner Mongolia Hospital

Short holiday staffing blamed after 9 babies were infected in neonatal intensive care unit of a top hospital in Ordos City

 China Oceanwide Holdings Defaults on $280 Million of Offshore Bonds

Troubled conglomerate of property tycoon Lu Zhiqiang wrestles with paying off $3.27 billion of debt coming due this year

 Exclusive: Tencent Ordered to Set Up Financial Holding Company

Owner of WeChat Pay follows in footsteps of rival Ant Group with state-mandated corporate shake up to comply with new rules for financial firms

 Walls Close In on Cryptocurrency Miners in Inner Mongolia

The region announces new measures that include revoking a certain telecommunications business license for telecom, internet firms that mine the tokens

 Guangdong Reports Four New Cases of Covid-19

One confirmed, three asymptomatic cases on Tuesday bring the total in the provinces latest flare-up to 11

 Tesla Announces New Shanghai Data Center to Allay Concerns

After a string of local controversies, the move should help the Elon Musk-helmed firm stay on the right side of Beijings stiffening user data rules

 U.S. Judge Issues Final Order Removing Xiaomi From China Military Banned List

Verdict coincides with the Biden administrations decision last week to postpone the start date of a ban on new U.S. investments in companies allegedly linked to the Chinese military

Click here to read more of the latest news.

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Heres todays ranking of the top 10 most-read international stories among Chinese people. We want to help you get a sense of whats trending in the Chinese language sphere.

1. Russians use fish eggs as fertilizer

2. Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs mourns the death of Japanese ballet dancer Mikiko Matsuyama

3. Second trial begins in the case of the pregnant Chinese woman falling from a cliff in Thailand

4. China sanctions US Commissioner on International Religious Freedom

5. Chinese Foreign Affairs spokesperson says that the US is still crying out I cant breathe

6. Chinese Foreign Affairs spokesperson says that the BBC owes the Chinese people an apology

7. Xiaomi is removed from the US sanctions list

8. Hundreds of corpses buried in sand along the Ganges River in India

9. Tesla faces a 1 billion yuan compensation claim

10. Mayor of New York kneels for 9 minutes and 29 seconds in memory of George Floyd

Read the top 10 domestic news on the same day.

Translated by intern reporter Harry Nicholls

The daily ranking of most read news stories among Chinese people, about China and global affairs, is jointly provided to you by Caixin Insight and HANA Data, an artificial intelligence technology team.

The key indicators calculated on the list are based on mass data sourced from Chinas mainstream social media platforms and online news websites. Click here for a detailed introduction of our methodology.
Here you'll find our latest collection of Caledonian-Record reports on the coronavirus outbreak and local response, from the beginning of April. Our January, February and March stories are here: https://www.caledonianrecord.com/news/local/our-coronavirus-coverage/collection_5885178c-692e-11e
Trade volume between Cambodia and China was valued at 3 billion U.S. dollars in the first four months of 2021, up 19.7 percent over the same period last year, according to a Cambodian Ministry of Commerce's report on Wednesday.

Cambodia's export to China reached 424 million dollars during the January-April period this year, up 42 percent, while its import from China was 2.58 billion dollars, up 16.7 percent, the report said.

Main items the Southeast Asian nation exported to China are milled rice, banana, dry rubber, cassava, fishery and apparels, as it imported from China mostly garment raw materials, machinery, vehicles, foodstuffs, electronics, medicines and cosmetics, among others.

Early this month, the kingdom began to export its fresh mangoes directly to China for the first time after the General Administration of Customs of China certified the first 37 mango orchards and five packaging plants to export Cambodian fresh mangoes to China.

Cambodian Ministry of Commerce's undersecretary of state and spokesman Penn Sovicheat said the export of Cambodian fresh mangoes to China marked a significant breakthrough in gaining access to a huge market for Cambodian fresh fruits.

"The opportunity given by Chinese market will help to promote a larger trade volume and strengthen stronger relationship between the two countries under the recently-signed Cambodia-China Free Trade Agreement," he told Xinhua.

Cambodia remains a sustainable source of agricultural products to the Chinese market, Sovicheat said, adding that the kingdom is ready to provide quality products such as fruits, rice and other agricultural food stuffs to meet the Chinese market's demand.
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U.S. agricultural exports to China are expected to hit a record high of 35 billion U.S. dollars in fiscal year (FY) 2021 that ends on Sept. 30, eclipsing the previous record of 29.6 billion dollars in FY 2014, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) said on Wednesday.



The figure is 3.5 billion dollars higher than the department's previous forecast in February, due to record shipments of soybeans, corn, tree nuts, beef, wheat and poultry products to China, the USDA said in its latest Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade.

"China is forecast to remain the largest market for U.S. agricultural exports in FY 2021, followed by Canada and Mexico," the USDA said.

Overall U.S. agriculture exports in FY 2021 are projected at 164 billion dollars, up 7 billion dollars from the February forecast, according to the USDA.

Key drivers of the surge in exports include a record outlook for China, record export volumes and values for a number of key products, sharply higher commodity prices, and reduced foreign competition, the USDA said.

"U.S. agricultural trade has proven extraordinarily resilient in the face of a global pandemic and economic contraction. This strength is reflected in today's USDA export forecast," U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in a statement.

"It's clear that trade remains a critical engine powering the agricultural economy and the U.S. economy as a whole. Today's estimate shows that our agricultural trading partners are responding to a return to certainty and reliability from the United States," Vilsack said.
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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FILE - In this Nov. 5, 2018, file photo Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., gives an interview with the Fox network before speaking at a campaign rally for Republican Florida gubernatorial candidate Ron DeSantis at AJ's Oyster Shanty on Okaloosa Island in Fort Walton Beach, Fla. (Nick Tomecek/Northwest Florida Daily News via AP, File)
A road sign placed by grassroots group Carteret County for Public Water sits in front of a Carteret County water tower off Mill Creek Road this spring. The Carteret County Board of Commissioners will consider whether to accept a bid for purchase of the water system from Carolina Water Systems during its meeting in June. (Elise Clouser photo)
Innovation makes air conditioners greener

09:30, May 27, 2021 By Zhong Yu ( People's Daily

Photo shows a low-carbon smart home system of Gree, a major Chinese appliance manufacturer. (Photo/Official Weibo account of Gree)

Air conditioners are a necessity for many to get through the scorching heat in the summer. However, apart from cooling down the air around us, they are also affecting the temperature of the planet Earth.

According to the UN Environment Program, half of the energy consumption of the buildings in the world comes from cooling and heating systems.

How to make air conditioning greener and more efficient has become an unavoidable topic for the refrigeration industry in today's world where the growing demand for air conditioning and climate change are posing a dilemma.

China will strive to peak carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060. It is a major strategic decision made by the country to build a community with a shared future for mankind and achieve sustainable development, as well as a solemn promise China makes to the world.

The next five years is critical for China to peak carbon dioxide emission. For energy sectors, it means both feeding more clean energy at the supply side and upgrading the ways of energy consumption and improving energy use efficiency at the client side.

Statistics indicated that refrigeration accounts for over 15 percent of China's total power consumption, and air conditioners in large- and medium-sized cities contribute 60 percent of electrical load during peak summer months. As a result, a low-carbon reform in the manufacturing sector is imperative, and there is much to be explored.

Technological advances, especially new breakthroughs in core technologies, to a large extent decide how much the manufacturing sector can contribute to emission peak and carbon neutrality.

Chinese appliance manufacturer Gree and Tsinghua University have jointly developed a technology that is able to cut 85.7 percent of energy consumption in air conditioning. The technology was recently awarded a grand prize at the award ceremony of the Global Cooling Prize, which was signed up by 2,100 competing teams from nearly 100 countries and aims to explore breakthrough innovative technology in the refrigeration industry to solve climate challenges.

It is estimated that the cooling technology, once massively employed, could possibly reduce carbon emission by 100 billion tons by 2050, equivalent to the amount of carbon absorbed by 116 billion trees in 100 years.

Responding to global climate change is a common challenge and task facing all countries. China has always been a major participant, contributor, and champion in building a global ecological civilization.

The Gree-Tsinghua University technology has served over 6,000 projects in the world, marking another contribution of Chinese innovation to the world.

This explains from the side that whoever leads in energy conservation and emission reduction technologies can claim the high ground in global competition as the world tackles climate change and seeks sustainable development.

At present, Chinese industries are speeding up low-carbon transformation, so as to contribute more wisdom, solutions and strength to global energy conservation, emission reduction and green development.

Low-carbon transformation is a systematic project that concerns all links from the supply end to the consumer end. It calls for the firm resolution of industries to tackle challenges, as well as concrete efforts of all consumers.

If everyone can do something to curb global warning, for instance, setting air-conditioners at appropriate temperatures in the summer, choosing energy-efficient products as much as possible, and taking an active part in tree-planting activities, low-carbon development can be made a new fashion, and thus forming a synergy with technological innovation.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
You are here: Business

Chinese tech giant Tencent confirmed Thursday that it has completed an investment of 15 million euros ($18.3 million) in Italian fintech startup Satispay in efforts to tap into Europe's growing mobile payment market.

The investment was finalized after the Italian government gave the official go-ahead in February, the Shenzhen-headquartered company told Xinhua.

Tencent said it has invested in Satispay on account of the latter's rapidly growing business and the bullish long-term prospect of mobile payment in Europe.

Tencent will support Satispay's move to expand businesses in Italy, Luxembourg and Germany, the company said.
Carroll, IA (51401)

Today

Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High 86F. Winds N at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Clear skies. Low around 60F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph.
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I once called RCMP to report some kids from my neighbourhood for speeding through our residential area. Now, speeding would be exceeding 50 km/hr. They were probably going about 50. Just because the blanket base speed limit is 50 doesnt mean it is an appropriate speed in all circumstances, you have to use your discretion. Can you do 50 through a parking lot? No. Can you do 50 around that tight curve ahead, no. Should you drive 50 through a residential area, one block from an elementary school, in an neighbourhood without sidewalks where pedestrians have to share the road with vehicles and the roadway is only 18 wide? The answer is no.

Google the stats. One important one to think of is a pedestrian hit at 50 has a 10% chance of survival. A pedestrian hit at 30 has an 80% chance of survival. You think you are a good driver, and if you live in the Okanagan (except Summerland) you likely havent had a speeding ticket in a long time, or any MVA (Motor Vehicle Act) related ticket. That does not mean you are a safe driver.

Back to when I called the RCMP on my neighbourhood kids. The member returned my call and said no one in that house has had a ticket in a long time, and that they called me an annoyance. No warning given; no talk had. Now those kids drive even faster past my house, because they feel invincible.

This morning I heard a call on my scanner, an accident on Gordon. As I usually do if I am not working, and since I have the equipment, the time and the desire to do what I can to help, I went to see if there was any need for traffic control. The scene I came up to was one that reminds me why I fight this fight. A car torn in half. 3 young lives taken, instantly. The scene is one I wont soon forget, and not something I wish to happen to anyone, not even my lovely speed loving neighbours.

Agree with me or not, as a society, as a race, we have to learn from our mistakes and leave the world a better place for future generations. Teaching your kids that speeding is acceptable, does not count as making the world a better place. Teaching your kids to disrespect someone because they have a different opinion than you, in not leaving the world a better place. Take a moment to yourself and consider how your actions rub off on your children. Did you teach them to love your neighbour, be kind to others and to operate a motor vehicle with the respect it deserves? Or did you teach your kids to be disrespectful to others, care only about yourself and if someone has a different opinion than you, they are always wrong and you are always right.

I do what I do because I want to make the world a better place. I want my neighbours kids to feel safe playing, biking and chasing each other amongst the houses that make up our neighbourhood, as I got to do when I was young. I want roadside workers to be able to come home after every shift and not to have their lives threatened by every passing vehicle.

Now I am not pointing fingers, but I want to ask these questions:

Per capita, how many MVA infractions are the citizens of Kelowna issued, and let's compare that to other cities around the country.

What is the actual average speed of vehicles within our city limits, compared to cities with enforcement? (try driving the speed limit on the bridge, you are likely to get pushed over the edge)

Why doesnt the Minister of Public Safety allow bylaw officers to issues MVA tickets?

Why can you exceed a speed limit by 10-20% and not get fined, but if you exceed the B.A.C (Blood Alcohol Concentration) limit by the same factor, you are thrown in jail and your license revoked? Shouldnt MAX 60 km/hr mean you shall not exceed 60 km/hr?

Have the discussion with your kids, your neighbours, your friends. Take a healthy look at how they, and you, drive, especially in residential areas. Are you driving with due consideration for others? If a child ran out in front of you from behind that parked car, could you brake in time? Would you even see them or are you busy replying to an email?

Expect the unexpected. Put yourself in other peoples shoes. Learn from other peoples mistakes. Evolve. Grow. Love. Understand. Share. Talk. Listen and stand up for what you think it right! The worst thing that will happen is your neighbours will hate you and your community will think youre crazy. The best thing that will happen; you will leave the world a little safer than when you found it.

Troy Gangl
Re: Border vaccine clinics end

Apparently those brilliant elite minds who initially told us stopping flights from Covid hotspots was racist and masks dont work then a few days later said mandatory have determined that their infinite wisdom supersedes common sense.



Opening the border to Canadians who want to be vaccinated on the USA/Canadian border instead of wasting the precious vaccines is forbidden. These brain dead ones indicated that stepping across the border or even meeting at the border is deemed non-essential!



In my whole life I have never seem a more intelligently corrupt incompetent group of idiots in charge of anything. Where is common sense? Where is compassion? Where is the media standing up for us poor sods who have had our freedoms, our lives and yes some of our loved ones taken because of their ineptitude?



Every single person who has a computer and email should object to every politician, every health official and every media outlet or are we just obedient sheep?



Robert Hepting, Kelowna
Photo: The Canadian Press

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has delivered a formal apology for the internment of Canadians of Italian descent during the Second World War.

Speaking in the House of Commons, Trudeau said the Italian Canadian community has carried the weight of the unjust policy of internment during the war.

Trudeau said the House of Commons didn't have to declare war on Canadians of Italian heritage when it declared war on Italy's fascist regime in June 1940.

"To stand up to the Italian regime that had sided with Nazi Germany, that was right," he said.

"But to scapegoat law-abiding Italian-Canadians, that was wrong."

He said 31,000 Italian Canadians were labelled "enemy aliens," and then fingerprinted, scrutinized and forced to report to local registrars once a month.

Trudeau said more than 600 men were arrested and sent to internment camps, and four women were detained and sent to jail without formal charges, ability to defend themselves in a fair trial or a chance to present or rebut evidence.

"To the tens of thousands of innocent Italian-Canadians who were labelled enemy aliens, to the children and grandchildren who have carried a past generations shame and hurt and to their community  a community that has given so much to our country  we are sorry," Trudeau said.

He said those who were interned did not turn their backs to Canada, and instead, they chose to contribute to building it, proving they loved the country they had chosen as their home.

"Every thriving business these men and women rebuilt or local charity they started was a testament to their commitment to Canada," he said.

"What better way to show that the injustice done to them had been a mistake?"
Photo: The Canadian Press Chief of Defence Staff Jonathan Vance.

A landmark legal battle over the independence of judges responsible for overseeing military courts martial has gone meta with new questions over the autonomy of a judge hearing the case.

The Court Martial Appeal Court of Canada hearing revolves around then-defence chief Jonathan Vance's decision two years ago to task an officer under his own command with disciplining the country's four military judges.

Three of those four military judges later stayed several cases, saying Vance's order impinged upon their independence and thus robbed service members accused of wrongdoing of their right to fair trials.

The question of whether military judges are independent was subsequently sent to the Court Martial Appeal Court, where three civilian judges including Chief Justice Richard Bell heard arguments from both sides in the winter and was set to make a ruling.

But now lawyers for the accused in seven affected cases want permission to submit new evidence and argue Bell is not sufficiently independent. That evidence includes Bells own statements to a judicial commission this month about his lack of independence.

Bell specifically flagged the fact that all justices on the military Appeal Court are required to be sitting judges in other courts at the same time. In his case, Bell is a sitting Federal Court judge in New Brunswick.

Membership as a judge or even chief justice of the CMACC is dependent upon membership as a judge of another source court," reads a submission prepared for the commission on Bell's behalf in March and referenced by defence lawyers in the seven cases.

"This potentially exposes the chief justice of the CMACC to the directives of other chief justices, thereby compromising his or her capacity to effectively carry out the independent functions of the CMACC."

The defence lawyers also included in their submissions several statements by fellow Court Martial Appeal Court judge Edward Scanlan, who appeared alongside Bell before the judicial commission on May 11, questioning the independence of the chief justice.

Those include an email from a Federal Court administrator to Bell, which Scanlan read aloud, suggesting the administrator's control over Bells schedule affected his ability to work on military appeals.

Scanlan described the situation as "the chief justice of a national court sitting and hearing cases where he is being told by a trial court how much time he is going to get because they fill the rest of his time up."

"That is a direct, frontal attack by a source court. It has allocated to itself the exclusive authority to decide how much time CMACC justice has to do his work. It's a frontal attack on his judicial independence and on the judicial independence of the court."

Bells lawyer Eugene Meehan, who prepared the submission on the chief justice's behalf, declined to comment on Wednesday.

Wendy Wharton, a spokeswoman for the Judge Advocate Generals office, which is responsible for ensuring the proper functioning of Canadas military justice system, also declined to comment.

Wharton did say that military prosecutors will respond by Friday to the request to submit evidence, adding that five other cases in addition to the seven that are currently part of the appeal have been adjourned until the CMACC responds.

Among those initial seven cases is one court martial involving three counts of sexual assault against an officer in British Columbia.
Photo: PNE

Plans are in the works for the 111th year of Vancouvers Pacific National Exhibition this summer.

On May 25, British Columbia entered the first phase of a four-phase plan to reduce public health orders and restrictions put in place to curb the spread of COVID-19. While not all restrictions have been lifted, the news has offered a glimmer of hope to many across the province, including PNE organizers.

We were very pleased to hear yesterdays announcement. Its fair to say that we are cautiously optimistic, and have restarted our planning for an in-person fair, said Laura Ballance, PNE spokesperson. Whatever we plan will look different, and daily capacities will be much smaller.

In an April announcement, the PNE's CEO indicated the fairs future was at stake due to unprecedented financial losses incurred over the pandemic.

At the time, CEO Shelly Frost stated that "all of the major events had to be cancelled in 2020" and that the PNE is a staggering $8 million in debt. "We are forecasted to be $15 million in debt by the end of 2021," she said.

Vancouver Mayor Kennedy Stewart said that the PNE as we "now know and love it could end" despite the city's backstopping of its line of credit. Kennedy added he hoped Premier John Horgan would come to the table and provide the support that the PNE needs.

Around the same time, Playland announced it would not open as previously announced in an effort to support the provincial "circuit breaker" established in the wake of soaring COVID-19 cases. The amusement park was slated to open May 1 but organizers decided to remain closed until after the May Long weekend.

Then, earlier this month, the PNE announced it was clear that the number of guests required to make an in-person fair financially viable would not be allowed under the Public Health Orders anticipated to be in effect this summer.

Whether this reduced reopening will make a significant dent in the PNE's debts is unclear, but Ballance said this latest announcement is a good one all around.

Although it wont look the same as our traditional fair, we are excited to bring British Columbia some of their favourites. I will also say this is great news for our staff team as well as our long-time concessionaires, Ballance said.

More announcements are expected in the coming weeks as plans are finalized.
Photo: The Canadian Press

Homicide investigators have been called in after a body was discovered Wednesday afternoon in the Fraser Canyon.

The body was discovered just off Highway 1 north of Yale, B.C. at about 1:45 p.m. on May 26. The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team says the area will remain cordoned off for a significant amount of time.

Police are currently in the early evidence gathering stages of their investigation, police said in a brief statement.

RCMP urge anyone with information to call the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or email [email protected]
A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday urged the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authority in Taiwan to remove political obstacles for mainland vaccines.

Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said that by blocking access for mainland vaccines, the DPP authority has created the biggest political obstacle for Taiwan compatriots to get over the impact caused by COVID-19.

Citing a recent poll, Zhu said that 85 percent of Taiwan compatriots are worried about their families getting infected, and nearly half of them are willing to be inoculated with qualified vaccines immediately, including mainland vaccines.

Zhu urged the DPP authority to keep in mind the lives and health of Taiwan compatriots, immediately stop political manipulation and remove political obstacles, to make sure that the majority of Taiwan people will have access of mainland vaccines as soon as possible.

Taiwan on Tuesday reported 281 new local COVID-19 infections and six deaths, with the total number of confirmed cases on the island reaching 5,456, including 35 deaths, according to the disease monitoring agency on the island.
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Cienfuegos restarts production

ICR Newsroom By 27 May 2021

The Carlos Marx cement plant in Cienfuegos, Cuba, has recommenced production after being paralysed since 14 January due to a lack of petcoke.



A new cargo of petcoke was reportedly unloaded at Cienfuegos port, according to Sierra Maestra new service.



To address the fuel shortage, Cienfuegos had introduced the use of tyres and waste oils, but the alternative fuels are unable to meet the entire fuel demand of the plant.



To continue supplying cement to Cubas construction programme, Cienfuegos looked at Siguaney and Sancti Spiritus cement plants for clinker.

Published under
Anjani Portland to acquire controlling stake in Bhavya Cements

27 May 2021

Indias Anjani Portland Cement has entered into a share purchase agreement for the acquisition of a controlling stake in Bhavya Cements, at a price of INR51.53/share (US$0.7/share).



The objective of the deal is to improve the market presence of the company through the addition of a new brand, according to Anjani Portland.



Bhavya currently operates around 1.4Mta of cement capacity and has annual revenues in the region of INR3bn.

Published under
Danville Police arrested a suspect in a pair of armed robberies; The suspect in a bizarre probe in Caswell County is behind bars; Another big vaccination clinic is set for Saturday in Danville; The slate of candidates is decided in this fall's city and county elections.
Atlanta real estate consulting firm Commercial Property Consultants and Chattanooga investment banking firm Oaklyn Consulting on Wednesday announced the creation of a strategic partnership. The two firms will collaborate exclusively to advise clients in situations where issues of recapitalization, acquisitions, exit or succession involve both real estate holdings and strategic corporate transactions.

Through this partnership, we look forward to providing an end-to-end solution for small business owners who typically dont have access to this high level of expertise, said Daniel Levison, principal of Commercial Property Consultants. We believe well create substantial value for business owners by combining the perspectives of experts who manage real estate and operating company transactions into a single, coordinated discussion. We believe well create substantial value for business owners by combining the perspectives of experts who manage real estate and operating company transactions into a single, coordinated discussion.

Oaklyn Consulting, based in Chattanooga, specializes in advising on complex, small or opportunistic transactions for owners of operating companies that require high-touch advice but are not well served by traditional investment banking firms. Oaklyn works on transactions from liquidation to $100 million in enterprise value, most often for owner-operators, venture capital and growth equity investors and nonprofits, providing support for all or parts of the process of buying or selling companies, raising capital, merging operations or planning succession.

We respect Daniel Levisons expertise in commercial real estate and his consultative method to helping business owners navigate decisions about a significant business investment, said Frank Williamson, president of Oaklyn Consulting. Because Oaklyn Consulting advises business owners on corporate transactions as consultants, not brokers, focusing first on the quality of our clients decisions rather than doing a deal at any cost, we especially appreciate the value of Commercial Property Consultants thoughtful process of guiding users of a commercial real estate property toward wise investment decisions.

Commercial Property Consultants specializes in working with small business owners primarily interested in owning the commercial real estate where they operate their businesses. The firm typically works with potential purchasers of commercial buildings to support the entire purchase process, from identifying building options to managing the due diligence process, identifying potential lenders, structuring loans, and working with a network of contractors to generate proposals for any possible renovations of the purchased property.

Weve been impressed by Oaklyn Consultings disciplined, empathetic approach to helping clients with operating company transactions, Mr. Levison said. We look forward to having their knowledge and perspective to complement our own, providing added value to both of our firms clients going forward.

Officials said, "Mr. Levison draws upon his four-decade commercial real estate career to provide a unique perspective for his clients. His hands-on experience includes running a 20-agent full-service commercial brokerage operation, creating multiple technology startups focused on commercial real estate, and acting as a principal in purchasing and repositioning over $40 million of commercial real estate assets."

Mr. Levison is a thought leader in the commercial real estate industry through his positions on national committees for the National Association Realtors (NAR) and National Association of Industrial & Office & Industrial Park Owners (NAIOP). His articles on operating a CRE operation in the 21st century have been published in national magazines for NAIOP, Society of Industrial & Office Realtors (SIOR) and Certified Commercial Investment Manager (CCIM)."

Frank Williamson has been specializing in mergers, acquisitions, financings, succession and the governance decisions related to these transactions for nearly three decades. Since founding Oaklyn Consulting in 2016, he and his partners have advised clients on nearly 100 strategic transactions.
Renowned Chinese nuclear power expert Peng Shilu, who passed away in March this year, was granted the title "Role Model of the Times" recently for his contribution to the country's nuclear power industry.

The title was conferred by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

Born in southern China's Guangdong Province in 1925, Peng was a Party member and one of the founding members of China's nuclear power industry. He dedicated himself to the design of the country's first-generation nuclear submarine in the 1950s, and led the charge in the establishment of two major nuclear power stations in China.

As a leading nuclear expert and one of the first batch of academicians with the Chinese Academy of Engineering, Peng demonstrated the great attributes of hard work, sacrifice, and the pursuit of innovation.
Jesse Hillis, teacher at Signal Mountain Middle High School, is among six teachers the Tennessee Department of Education announced today have been named state finalists for the prestigious Presidential Awards in Math and Science Teaching, the highest honor for U.S. K-12 science, technology, engineering, mathematics and/or computer science teachers.



Administered by the National Science Foundation on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, the PAEMST program recognizes awardees for their contributions to teaching and learning, along with their ability to help students make progress in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and/or computer science. In addition to honoring individual achievement, the goal of the awards program is to showcase the highest standards of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) teaching.



These finalists represent the most outstanding STEM teachers Tennessee has to offer and this recognition of their work and passion is a true inspiration to students and fellow teachers, said Commissioner Penny Schwinn. We applaud and celebrate their hard work, their many sacrifices on behalf of their students and their commitment to STEM education.



The 2021 Tennessee state finalists are:



 Natalie Boyd, Math, Hume-Fogg Academic Magnet, Metro Nashville Public Schools

 Phillip Cutshaw, Math, South Greene High School, Greene County Schools

 Monica White, Math, Holloway High School, Rutherford County Schools

 Jesse Hillis, Science, Signal Mountain Middle High School, Hamilton County Schools

 Chikezie Madu, Science, White Station High School, Shelby County Schools

 Bethany Saunders, Science, Hardin Valley Middle School, Knox County Schools



Each of the state finalists will now move on to the national selection committee, who will identify up to two teachersone in mathematics and one in sciencefrom each state.



Teachers who are selected as PAEMST awardees receive a trip to Washington, D.C., where they attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities. They also receive a $10,000 award from NSF, a Presidential certificate, and join an elite cohort of award-winning teachers who can influence state and national STEM teaching.



Former award recipients and state scoring committee members, along with elected officials, commented on this prestigious achievement for these educators, saying:



I would like to congratulate Hardin Valley Middle Schools Bethany Saunders for this achievement for Knox County Schools, said Lt. Governor Randy McNally. Our schools are increasingly some of the best in the nation and I am grateful we are recognizing those teachers who are inspiring our children to achieve  especially in the areas of math and science.



As any true teacher at heart, sharing our passion for learning as a way of life is our mission, said Huguette Williams, math teacher at Sevier County Schools, 2019 National Awardee in Math, Member of the 2021 PAEMST Scoring Committee. Being a recipient of the Presidential Award is the recognition of the value of my work and an encouragement to continue to grow but also inspire others. It is an award I owe to every student whose needs or curiosity challenge me to better myself, and to the excellent educators around me who inspire me. Receiving the award gave me the confidence I needed to step into a leadership position and opened the door to new opportunities. These finalists are the teachers every parent would want for their children.



These innovative Tennessee educators have demonstrated excellence in creating new opportunities for children to engage in STEM education and computer science, said State Senate Education Committee Chairman Brian Kelsey. They are incredibly deserving of this recognition and represent the exceptional talent we have in our teachers in Tennessee. A special word of congratulations to Chikezie Madu in my senatorial district at White Station High School who received the award.



Congratulations to all of these teachers for being recognized on the national stage as one of the very best educators in America, said State Senator Steve Southerland. A special congratulations to Phillip Cutshaw from South Greene High School in my senatorial district. It is an honor to recognize his accomplishments in educational excellence for Greene County students.



As an educator for over 30 years, an advocate for STEM education, and a former PAEMST finalist, participating in the PAEMST program has been an inspiring and rewarding experience, said Dr. Marcia Millet, head of the Department of Teaching & Learning at Tennessee State University, member of the 2021 PAEMST Scoring Committee. This years nominees were exceptional which made reviewing their applications both exhilarating yet challenging. Their ability to teach effectively during a pandemic shows that the future of teaching is extremely bright.



Rutherford County is blessed with excellent schools and committed educators, said State Senator Dawn White. Mrs. Whites selection as a state finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching highlights the tremendous work happening in our schools. Congratulations to Monica on this recognition. It is certainly well deserved.



Jesse Hillis continues a tradition of academic and instructional excellence that is the standard at Signal Mountain Middle High School, said State Senator Bo Watson. This is a well-deserved recognition.



I am tremendously proud of the hard work taking place at Signal Mountain Middle School, said State Rep. Patsy Hazlewood. Effective teachers like Jesse Hillis exemplify what it means to go above and beyond for their students. I congratulate everyone for their commitment to academic excellence.



Phillip Cutshaw is without a doubt the best of the best, said State Rep. Jeremy Faison. This is an incredible honor for an educator to receive, and we are proud that one of our own has been recognized for their contributions to our children and our community. I congratulate all the recipients on their outstanding achievements and thank Mr. Cutshaw for his continued commitment to shaping the next generation of Tennesseans.



Dr. Chikezie Madu is one of Shelby Countys finest educators, said State Rep. John Gillespie. His talents and dedication to engaging and educating our students have not gone unnoticed. I congratulate Dr. Madu for being selected to receive this outstanding award and thank all of the recipients for making a difference in the lives of so many young Tennesseans.



I congratulate Monica White for receiving such a prestigious award as being named a state finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching, said State Rep. Tim Rudd. It also says a lot about Rutherford County Schools and Holloway High for having one of the Nations best teachers on staff.



Established by Congress in 1983, the PAEMST program authorizes the President of the United States to bestow up to 108 awards each year. Awardees serve as models for their colleagues, inspiration to their communities, and leaders in the improvement of mathematics and science education.



Principals, teachers, parents, students, or members of the general public may nominate exceptional mathematics and science (including computer science) teachers at www.paemst.org. Awards alternate each year between elementary and secondary teachers. In the 2021 award cycle, nominees are science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or computer science teachers working in grades seven-12.


Geoff Millener has been named a 2021 Charles Benton Digital Equity Champion, a recognition of leadership and dedication in advancing digital equity. Geoff, who is the senior program and operations officer at The Enterprise Center, was selected by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance and the Benton Institute for Broadband and Society for his work expanding access to technology across Hamilton County, and beyond. Two winners are selected each year, and Mr. Millener is being honored with the Emerging Leader Award, alongside Washington State Universitys Monica Babine.The announcement was made at NDIAs Net Inclusion webinar on Wednesday.We are thrilled to be naming Geoff Millener a Digital Equity Champion, said Angela Siefer, NDIAs executive director. Geoff has not only strengthened Chattanoogas digital equity efforts, he does not hesitate to share his expertise with other communities across the country. NDIA is honored to have Geoff in our community."For the last three years, Geoff has worked tirelessly toward digital equity in Chattanooga and Hamilton County, championing the idea that digital equity is vital to equity in health, education, accessibility and almost every other aspect of modern life," officials said. "He has been a driving force of EdConnect, a program that has recently brought no-cost high-speed internet to 14,000 students homes, he has helped raise more than $8 million to support local digital equity efforts in the last year, and he has helped envision and implement countless programs that integrate digital literacy and access to technology into existing support systems."Chattanooga and Hamilton County were recognized by NDIA in 2020 as a "Digital Inclusion Trailblazer," and programs like HCS EdConnect and Tech Goes Home Chattanooga regularly receive national recognition.We are all so pleased to see Geoff get recognition for his great work, said Deb Socia, president & CEO of The Enterprise Center. His passion, drive and focus are extraordinary, allowing us to bring opportunity and access to thousands of school children and their families.Mr. Millener's other accomplishments include being a part of the installation of more than 125 new WiFi access points in Hamilton County, expanding The Enterprise Centers signature digital equity program Tech Goes Home, implementing the 4K Microscope program in Hamilton County Schools, leading a local Digital Access and Equity Committee and serving as the board chair for Thrives Regional Broadband Alliance, which aims to expand digital access and equity in 16 counties across Georgia, Alabama and Tennessee.There is something strange about being recognized individually for work that is inherently collaborative and collective, Mr. Millener said in his remarks during the award ceremony, noting that partnerships among organizations such as EPB, the City of Chattanooga, Hamilton County, Hamilton County Schools, Signal Centers and others are what makes such work possible.
Bebe Heiskell, longtime Walker County, Ga., sole commissioner, died Thursday.

The office of current Commission chairman Shannon Whitfield, said, "We are saddened to learn of the passing of Bebe Heiskell today. Ms. Heiskell worked nearly four decades in public administration and served as Sole Commissioner of Walker County from 2001 to 2016.

"A number of improvements occurred during her tenure as Sole Commissioner. Ms. Heiskell implemented a storm water management initiative and adopted a building inspection program to ensure the highest standards of life safety measures to protect citizens from contractors who might build less than adequate structures.

"In addition, Ms. Heiskell funded the construction of several community centers, purchased the Marsh House in LaFayette for historic preservation, protected more than 20,000 acres of green space, established an employee health clinic and approved the construction of the current animal shelter facility.

"During her administration, several new fire stations were built. The investments Ms. Heiskell made in the Fire Department helped the countys ISO rating drop from a Class 6 to a Class 3/3Y, which continues to save Walker County homeowners hundreds of dollars in insurance premiums every year.

"Her economic development credits include Northern Georgia Logistics, Audia Plastics, and the retention and expansion of Roper Corporation. These companies continue to employ hundreds of workers in Walker County.

"Ms. Heiskell also helped the county overcome many challenges, including the Tri-State Crematory clean-up, a 500-year flood in 2009 and the April 27, 2011 tornadoes.

"While serving as Sole Commissioner, she was most proud of the achievements of county employees. She championed cross-training staff, so more tasks could be done in house.

"Above all, Ms. Heiskell cherished her numerous direct interactions with the citizens of Walker County and considered it the highest honor to represent each and every resident."

Funeral arrangements are forthcoming.
Ober Gatlinburg, Inc.s iconic Aerial Tramway is set to reopen to the Public this Friday, with the first Tram scheduled to leave the Downtown Terminal at 9:45 a.m. This scheduled reopening comes at the end of a 10-week upgrade of the entire system including, but not limited to, replacement of over nine miles of existing track rope cables (originally placed into service in August of 1973) and

switching to an AC drive with a variable frequency controller. Estimated cost of the total project is $4.5 million.



Officials said, "This upgrade was facilitated and overseen by representatives of Doppelmayr, Garaventa, Fatzer, Frey AG Stans and Ober Gatlinburg, Inc. culminating in final testing and inspection by representatives of these manufacturers/operators as well as the Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development/Elevator Unit.



"Ober Gatlinburg is excited to reopen the Aerial Tramway to the public after operations having

been closed since March 22."

Activity Rates may be found here. Hours of operation may be found here.

Face Coverings will be required on the Aerial Tramway until further notice.



"Come be one of the first to ride the Aerial Tramway when it reopens this Memorial Day Weekend as the Tram nears its 48th year of operation here at Ober Gatlinburg," officials said.
Jack I. Reiss, 81, founder and director of Baptist World Missionary Outreach Ministries, Inc. went home to glory on Monday, May 24, 2021.

He was born and reared in a Jewish home in Memphis, Tn.

White attending synagogue in Memphis, he was hitchhiking and picked up by a Christian lady. He accepted Christ as his personal Savior and served the Lord unashamedly.

Dr. Reiss traveled the world ministering the Gospel of Jesus. He never met a stranger and when he walked into a room his infectious smile and vibrant personality filled it.

Dr. Reiss graduated from Christian Brothers High School, went to Memphis State, and Tennessee Temple University and served in the United States Army.

The Lord used Jack to begin the Baptist World Missionary Outreach Ministries in 1976 and along with his wife, traveled the country to different churches presenting their ministry and the mission.

Dr. Reiss is survived by his loving wife of nearly 50 years, Sandra R. Reiss; daughter, Rebecca; and three grandchildren, Maris, Elijah, and Azlyn. He will be missed by his many friends and co-laborers across the country who were privileged to meet and know him.

A Celebration of Life Service for Dr. Reiss will be held on Saturday, June 12, at Anchor of Hope Baptist Church, 2613 Lakeview Drive, Rossville, Ga. 30741.

The family will receive friends from 12-2 p.m. on Saturday, June 12, at Anchor of Hope Baptist Church.

You may visit www.heritagechattanooga.com to share expressions of love to the Reiss Family and view the memorial tribute.

Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 E. Brainerd Road.
While Captain Lee Rosbach wasnt thrilled with her approach, he revealed that he now understands why chef Rachel Hargrove suddenly quit the boat on Below Deck.

Rosbach, bosun Eddie Lucas and chief stew Francesca Rubi are seen looking completely stunned when Hargrove suddenly decides to quit after viewing the upcoming charter guests outrageous preference sheet. She refers to the preference sheet as bullsh*t and that shes going to start packing immediately. Adding that the guests can go f**k yourself and shove it up your a**.

She also delivered her now-infamous line that the guests (and seemingly Rosbach) can eat my c**ter. Rosbach was understandably upset and annoyed that Hargrove suddenly quit and did so with such vigor. But he revealed he now understands why she was under so much stress.

Chef Rachel Hargrove and Captain Lee Rosbach from Below Deck Season 8 on WWHL | Bravo/NBCU Photo Bank

Why did Chef Rachel suddenly quit Below Deck with such intensity?

Other crew members have suddenly quit but not like Hargrove, hurling expletives and anger along the way. She told Rosbach and the team her anger was not directed toward them, but she wasnt going to put up with the nonsense. Rosbach even tried to talk some sense into Hargrove and hoped shed stay to cook maybe a meal or two for the guests, but she refused.

At the time Rosbach was stunned and pretty annoyed, especially with her approach. Rachel snuck into the galley and loosened up the proverbial lug nuts, cuz the wheels definitely came off tonight, Rosbach wrote in the episode blog. You really went off the rails. I for sure didnt even see this coming at all. I know what you meant when you told me to go have sex with myself, and I know it wasnt directed squarely at me, but I still cant say I wasnt surprised.

RELATED: Below Deck: Which Charter Guests Had the Most Outrageous Requests and Preference Sheets?

Blew me away and sure put me, and the crew, in a tight spot to say the very least, one I hope we can recover from no thanks to you, he continued. You knew I might have to cancel the charter, and the boss will have to refund the charter money, and the crew wont receive any tip, so yeah, its going to be tough.

Viewing the Below Deck episode gave Captain Lee more perspective

Earlier in the day, Hargrove sobbed when her boyfriend called to tell her how serious the pandemic had become in Italy. She was worried about her boyfriend and upset with how the U.S.-based crew shrugged off the pandemic threat.

Unfortunately, Rosbach was not privy to this information so her reaction came out of left field. After watching the buildup of things you were going thru, I can see where you mayve been having a tough stretch, he continued in his blog. But still I expected better from you, and was sorely disappointed in your behavior. Not much else to say about that, I wish you all the luck and whatever is bothering you, I hope you find the key to it somewhere.

RELATED: Below Deck: Eddie Lucas Hints at Tension With Chef Rachel

Hargrove returned to the boat before the charter began and knocked it out of the park. She finished the season but shared with Showbiz Cheat Sheet she knew that Covid-19 was going to be horrifying. I was actually in the know [about COVID], she said. She said Italy was way ahead of the U.S. in terms of the threat level. So I dont think the American public realized the actual progression and how fast it was and how big it was, she remarked. Because it came to light in February. And then it took down all of Europe like straight away.

Adding, I was actually furious that it took that long for America, she said. Im very upset about it.
Netflix announced that Thomas Ian Griffith would reprise his role as Terry Silver in Cobra Kai Season 4. To Karate Kid fans, thats news theyve been waiting for. But if you dont have the entire movie franchise committed to memory, you may be wondering what the big deal is about Terry Silver. Showbiz Cheat Sheet is here to help.

L-R: Ralph Macchio and Martin Kove | Curtis Bonds Baker/Netflix

Thomas Ian Griffith played Terry Silver in The Karate Kid Part III

The Karate Kid Part III was not one of the more popular entries in the movie franchise. The films writer had an idea to send Daniel (Ralph Macchio) and Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita) back in time. When the studio said no, director John G. Avildsen wanted Daniel to die in the end, but they said no to that too.

After Daniel and Miyagi return from Okinawa in Karate Kid Part II, history repeats itself. A disgraced John Kreese (Martin Kove) wants revenge on Daniel and Miyagi for winning the All Valley Karate Tournament. So, he turns to his Vietnam war buddy Terry Silver (Grifffith) who is the ultimate 80s villain. Hes rich, hes blatantly dumping toxic waste and he has the perfect plan to get Daniel.

Thomas Ian Griffith | Chad Buchanan/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images

RELATED: Has Cobra Kai Filmed Season 4 Yet?

A new challenger, Mike Barnes (Sean Kanan) wants Daniel to defend his title. Miyagi doesnt think this is a worthwhile use of Karate so refuses to train Daniel. Silver offers to train Daniel in Cobra Kai, but its all a ruse. Hes really working for Kreese and Barnes to ambush Daniel.

Cobra Kai has mentioned Terry Silver before

Cobra Kai mentioned Silver in season 1. When Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka) petitions the board to let Cobra Kai back in the All Valley Karate Tournament, they mention Silvers ban from 1989. Johnny doesnt know who Silver is because he wasnt in Karate Kid III.

Daniel tells his Miyagi-Do students about his time with Cobra Kai in season 2 and the lessons he learned going to the dark side. In season 3, Cobra Kai showed Kreeses time in Vietnam. Terry Silver is a character in his troupe, and a sniveling coward at the time.

Terry Silver was part of the plan all along

Fans have been asking about Terry Silver since Cobra Kai Season 1, and even more as more Karate Kid characters appear on the show. In the announcement, Cobra Kai creators Josh Heald, Jon Hurwitz and Hayden Schlossberg said theyd always planned to re-introduce Silver.

Since the beginning of the series, weve been carefully orchestrating the right moment to unleash Cobra Kai dojo co-founder Terry Silver back into the universe, Their statement read. That moment is now. We cant wait for the whole world to experience Thomas Ian Griffiths majestic return to the franchise.

RELATED: Cobra Kai Was Originally Going to Be a Movie  But Without These Characters

The announcement quotes Silvers lines from The Karate Kid III.

A man cant stand, he cant fight, Silver says. A man cant breathe, he cant fight. A man cant see he cant fight. Extreme situations require extreme measures.

As Griffith turns, revealing his signature pony tail, his other ominous line from the film appears on screen: Now the real pain begins.

Now, wheres Julie Pierce?
Empire star Bryshere Gray will serve jail time for a domestic violence incident against his wife. The actor is accepting guilt and will also serve probation. Unfortunately, he isnt the only Empire star to face serious legal trouble.

Jussie Smollett, Bryshere Gray, and Trai Byers | FOX Image Collection via Getty Images

Bryshere Gray is an actor and rapper

Gray, also known by his stage minkor Yazz The Greatest or Yazz, is Philadelphia born entertainer. He starred as Hakeem Lyon, the youngest son of the infamous Lyon family in the FOX primetime hit, Empire.

Source: YouTube

Related: The New Edition Story: A Shocking Moment from the Series Was Actually Cast Members Favorite

His performance on Empire landed him award nominations, including two NAACP Image Awards, three Teen Choice Awards, and one BET Award.

His acting career has blossomed since his Empire debut. Gray portrays Michael Bivins in the 2017 BET miniseries The New Edition Story. He also starred alongside Teyana Taylor in Honey: Rise Up and Dance  and in the indie drama Canal Street.

Bryshere Grays wife accuses him of domestic violence

In July 2020, Gray was taken into custody after his standoff with an Arizona SWAT team. Arizona PD says officers responded to a call to assist a woman after claiming shed been assaulted by Gray for hours.

Officers noticed the woman had numerous visible injuries on her body. She identified herself as Grays wife and alleged hed strangled her so hard that she temporarily lost consciousness during the alleged assault.

Source: YouTube

Related: Empire Stars Police Interview Leakes Discussing His Bizarre Account of a Domestic Violence Incident

While the woman was being treated at a local hospital, cops say they tried talking to Gray about what happened at the couples home. He allegedly refused to leave the home and barricaded himself inside, seemingly threatening to commit suicide.

A SWAT team and crisis negotiators arrived to try and help Gray. Cops say the standoff ended around 7 a.m. when Gray surrendered to officers in front of his home.

It was revealed from the police report that Grays wife told police that he suffers from bipolar disorder and ADHD but refuses to take his medication.

The rapper and actor will serve jail time and probation

According to a report from TMZ, Gray entered a guilty plea for domestic violence. He will serve 10 days in jail as a result. Gray will also have to complete three years of probation. As part of his plea deal, the Drip Drop rapper will pay restitution and enroll in a domestic violence offender treatment program.

Source: YouTube

During his probation period, Gray wont be allowed to consume any illegal drugs or alcohol. He will also be subjected to drug and alcohol testing. Gray will have to stay out of any legal trouble. He cannot possess any stun guns, tasers, or any other kind of firearm.

Its unclear if Gray and his wife are still together.

Bryshere Gray isnt the only Empire star to find himself in legal trouble

Grays arrest came a little after a year of his co-star and on-screen brother Jussie Smolletts arrest. Smollett is accused of faking a hate crime for publicity and a pay raise on the show.

He claimed he was attacked on a Chicago street, called homophobic and racial slurs, and beaten. Police say video footage and the suspects testimony proves that Smollett orchestrated the attack.

Smollett claims he is innocent and maintains the hate crime occurred.
Firefly Lane fans need answers. Specifically, what the heck did Tully do to torpedo her friendship with Kate? Season 1 of the Netflix series ended with the long-time BFFs no longer speaking, though we dont have any idea why.

Thankfully, were going to find out, eventually. On May 26, series stars Katherine Heigl (Tully) and Sarah Chalke (Kate) shared that Netflix had renewed the show for a second season. During the video announcement, the pair also answered fan questions, including about what went wrong between Tully and Kate.

Fans desperate to know what caused Tully and Kates big fight in Firefly Lane Season 1

Firefly Lane | COURTESY OF NETFLIX  2020

RELATED: 7 Shows Like Firefly Lane to Binge After You Watch the New Katherine Heigl Series

Firefly Lane Season 1 ended with a two-year time jump, moving from 2003 to 2005. Kate is attending her fathers funeral, and Tully shows up. But shes clearly not welcome.

No one wants you here, Kate tells Tully as the pair stand outside the church.

Dont you think youve punished me enough? Tully replies.

When I said I could never forgive you for what you did, what did you think that meant? Kate tells her former friend.

You have a lot of nerve showing up here. Leave, Tully. Go home, now. I dont ever want to see you again, she adds.

Clearly, whatever happened between the two was friendship-ending, at least in Kates opinion. But as for what exactly Tully did, we dont know. The cliffhanger ending left viewers with plenty of theories about what might have gone down. But with no word (until recently) on whether the show had been renewed, fans worried theyd be left hanging forever.

Sarah Chalke offers a clue about what Tully did

In the Firefly Lane Season 2 renewal announcement video, Chalke offered a hint about what Tully did to Kate. Spoiler: It doesnt involve Kates estranged husband Johnny (Ben Lawson), who was injured during an explosion in Iraq at the end of season 1 and whose fate is unknown.

So, this issue between Tully and Kate, we cant say much, but we can say that its family related, she said.

Its logical to think that something involving Johnny caused the fight  after all, Tully and Johnny slept together before he got together with Kate. But Chakle assured fans that wasnt the case.

[The fight] has nothing to do with Johnny, she said.

Nothing, Heigl confirmed.

The Firefly Lane books may explain why Tully and Kate had a falling out

Firefly Lane | COURTESY OF NETFLIX  2020

Firefly Lane is based on a book of the same name by Kristin Hannah. She also wrote a sequel, which concludes Tully and Kates story.

While the Netflix series has diverged somewhat from its source material, Hannahs first book does reveal what went wrong between Tully and Kate. Its possible that the shows writers will follow the same direction as the novel in season 2. [Firefly Lane book spoilers ahead.]

In the book, Tully invites Kate and her teen daughter Marah to be on her talk show, The Girlfriend Hour. Kate is under the impression they are going to talk about how she and Marah can improve their tense relationship. But instead, Tully has planned a segment about overprotective mothers and how they harm their children. Kate is humiliated and angry at Tully for essentially calling her a bad parent on live TV. She storms off the set and declares that her friendship with Tully is over.

So, will a similar betrayal happen on the show? We cant be sure  for one, in the series, Tully has already quit The Girlfriend Hour. But based on Chalkes comments about the fight being family related, something involving Tully, Kate, and Marah definitely fits the bill.

Firefly Lane Season 1 is currently streaming on Netflix.

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What could that symbol possibly mean? In the May 23 episode of the Hallmark Channel series Good Witch, Cassie (Catherine Bell), Abigail (Sarah Power), and Joy (Katherine Barrell) learned that George (Peter MacNeill) had given them the strange bags of dirt they received at the end of season 5. Hed received the bags from Laurel, their great-grandmother, who told him to give them to the Merriwick women on the night of the next red-haloed moon. The soil inside came from the familys original farm in England.

But as for what those bags  and the tree-like symbol the dirt formed  could mean, thats still anyones guess. But a Good Witch promo trailer hints that Joy has a theory.

Joy has a theory about the mysterious symbol in Good Witch Season 7 Episode 3

RELATED: Is Good Witch Season 6 on Netflix? How to Catch Up Before the Season 7 Premiere

In a trailer for the May 30 episode of Good Witch, titled The Delivery, Joy shares that she has had another dream. This one has given her an idea about the symbols purpose.

I think the symbol is meant for protection, she says.

Protection from what? Abigail asks.

Thats what we have to figure out, Cassie replies.

It sounds like the Merriwick women might be in danger. But who  or what  might be threatening them isnt clear, adding another layer of mystery for the trio (and viewers) to puzzle over.

Cassie prepares for Graces visit

In an extended teaser for The Delivery, we also learn that a much-loved Good Witch character might be returning to Middleton. Cassie stays up until 3 a.m. baking muffins in preparation for her daughter Graces (Bailee Madison) return home. (Madison left Good Witch after season 5, when her character graduated from high school.)

Theres only nine hours left until Grace is home, Cassie says when Sam (James Denton) chides her for not coming to bed.

Grace has apparently spent the past six months studying abroad in Spain but is now coming home for a visit. So, will we actually see Grace back in Grey House in The Delivery? We dont know for sure, but Madisons name was included in the cast list for the upcoming episode.

Martha plans a baby shower

Catherine Disher in Good Witch | 2021 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Peter Stranks

RELATED: Chesapeake Shores Star Jesse Metcalfe Explains Why He Isnt Returning to Hallmark Channel Show

Also in this weeks Good Witch episode, Martha (Catherine Disher), Cassie, and Abigail plan a baby shower for Marthas daughter-in-law Claire (Nicole Wilson). That prompts the women to reminisce about Cassies shower ahead of Graces birth.

Meanwhile, Daniel (Charlie Gallant) has decided to stay in town and serve as his brother Donovans (Marc Bendavid) campaign manager. Plus, Abigail has received an offer for her flower shop, leaving her with a big decision to make.

Adam (Scott Cavalheiro) and George also team up to try to save a historic church from demolition. And Stephanie (Kylee Evans) has signed up for French classes, but she ends up not seeing eye-to-eye with her charming instructor.

Good Witch Season 7 Episode 3, The Delivery, airs Sunday, May 30 at 9 p.m. ET on Hallmark Channel.

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Wu Kanfen, an elderly woman living in Deqing county's Fuxi subdistrict in east China's Zhejiang province, was recently visited by volunteers who provided her with free healthcare services and daily necessities including rice, cooking oil and fruit.

The volunteers were organized by Happiness Fuxi Foundation, a public charity set up by companies in the subdistrict four years ago.

According to Luo Shuyang, executive director of the foundation, since these companies are based on the support of residents, they wanted to show their gratitude and give something back to the community.

The foundation has been well-received by the public, attracting donations from institutions and individuals, and raising a total of 11 million yuan, Luo said.

He explained that the foundation is committed to improving people's well-being and honoring residents for their work ethics, family virtues and personal integrity.

To encourage and show respect for the donors, any company, institution or individual contributing more than 500,000 yuan can name a fund for a specific purpose, he added.

Happiness Fuxi Foundation is not the only organization launched by the non-governmental sector to participate in social governance in Deqing. With support from the local authorities, citizens in the county have created several dozen charitable foundations and "grassroots awards" to uphold mutual assistance, develop stronger virtues, and help boost social harmony.

In 2011, five retired teachers aged over 80 created the "Young Students Progress Award" to support high-performing students from families in financial difficulty. Over the past decade, the award has benefited 179 students across the county, some of whom have since been admitted to the country's top universities.

Shen Xiaowei, executive director of the Deqing Retired Teachers Association, said most of the 1,800 retired teachers in the county have contributed to the award.

Besides offering financial aid, the former teachers also keep in close contact with the students, offering them advice and helping them solve problems in their day-to-day lives, Shen said.

Chang Jian, director of the Center for Human Rights Studies at Nankai University, explained that now China has basically achieved the goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects, people's quality of life has been guaranteed to a certain level.

Chang said that this has laid a solid foundation for enabling every person to enjoy self-development and serve society, and ensures that everyone has the same opportunities to live a rewarding life.

Much progress has been made in this regard and Deqing is a prime example, he added.
If someone is looking for a thriller to watch, they may think of the movie I Know What You Did Last Summer. Many people considered the film to have revitalized the slasher genre along with Scream. Two of the cast members met on the set of the movie and soon began a long-lasting relationship.

Even though some people have positive things to say about the thriller, Lois Duncan did not. Duncan was the author of the novel of the same name. Before the films release, she was trying to solve her daughters murder.

(L-R) Freddie Prinze Jr. and Jennifer Love Hewitt | Columbia Pictures/Getty Images

I Know What You Did Last Summer was a success

RELATED: 30 Photos of the Most Famous Women in Horror Movies

I Know What You Did Last Summer is a 1997 film that starred Jennifer Love Hewitt and Sarah Michelle Gellar. It is a slasher about four friends who are driving along the road during the 4th of July. They end up hitting a pedestrian and dump the body instead of calling for help.

The four of them make a pact to never speak about the incident again. A year later, Julie receives an ominous note that reads, I know what you did last summer! She tracks down the other three friends. Meanwhile, a killer picks them off one by one.

One of the most iconic scenes is Julie turning around to ask the killer what he is waiting for. However, no one is there. The idea for the scene came from a child who won a contest. Now, it is the most well-known scene.

The film was commercially successful upon its release. While it received mixed reviews, the movie became a classic in popular culture. Two sequels would follow up the original film.

Who is renowned author Lois Duncan?

Very sad news: Lois Duncan, author of I Know What You Did Last Summer and many other books for teens, has died at 82 pic.twitter.com/2nsycviSvK  Children's Bookshelf (@PWKidsBookshelf) June 15, 2016

Born on April 28, 1934, Duncan spent her early life in Pennsylvania, according to Publishers Weekly. She developed a hobby for reading and began writing at a young age. The author got married twice and had five children throughout her life. Duncan died in 2016 at the age of 82.

Early in her career, Duncan wrote plenty of articles for magazines while taking care of her children. The author also worked on manuscripts for novels. Her first novel, Love Song for Joyce, got published in 1958. Other early works include Debutante Hall and A Promise for Joyce.

Duncan generally wrote suspense novels for young adults. Besides I Know What You Did Last Summer, she published Down a Dark Hill and Summer of Fear. Killing Mr. Griffin became a critical success upon publication.

Readers of Duncans books found that the stories seemed rooted in real life. Besides being suspenseful, some novels had supernatural elements. Duncan wrote stories for adults and nonfiction as well.

Lois Duncan attempted to solve her daughters killing

Lois Duncan wrote the book that inspired I Know What You Did Last Summer and hated every second of the movie. #WomensHistoryMonth



Hear her story: https://t.co/t5uFjsFMDC pic.twitter.com/DWpy4AHiw4  SYFY FANGRRLS (@SYFYFANGRRLS) March 5, 2020

While fans loved I Know What You Did Last Summer, Duncan did not like the film at all. According to The A.V. Club, the author hated how the adaptation changed the nature of the story. The movie was a slasher that had promiscuous teens getting stalked, as seen in many 80s and 90s thriller movies.

The film framed the deaths of the characters in a way that offered guilty pleasure to the audience. Duncan explained in an interview that she did not enjoy seeing teenagers get killed. The main reason is that the author lost her 18-year-old daughter in Albuquerque, New Mexico. At the time, Duncan was working on solving her childs death.

Duncans daughter was named Kaitlyn Arquette. In the summer of 1989, someone killed Arquette in an unexplained shooting, according to BuzzFeed. The official investigation did not turn up any clues to indicate who did it, but Duncan dedicated herself to solving the mystery.

Duncan requested the help of psychics and a private investigator, and her investigation lasted 25 years. According to the Albuquerque Journal, as of 2019, the case remains unsolved.
Once upon a time, a British prince married an American TV star and many thought that they would live as royals in a palace happily ever after. But the pair had other plans. While on the outside it appeared that the world they lived in mirrored a fairytale, it did not so Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex wanted out.

After officially stepping down as senior royals in 2020, the duke and duchess moved across the pond in their quest to lead a more private life away from the royal spotlight. Meghan and Harry havent exactly stayed out of the public eye since moving though. The Sussexes have given interviews that havent painted the princes family in a positive light. To some, it seems like Harry in particular is waging a war against the monarchy but one expert believes hes just doing everything Meghan tells him to.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry staring at one another on the Buckingham Palace balcony during Trooping the Colour | Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images)

What Harry has said in interviews since he left the royal family

During his interview with Oprah Winfrey, Harry said that Prince Charles cut him off financially after he moved to America. Two months later, the duke took aim at his father again over his parenting skills on Dax Shepards Armchair Expert podcast.

Certainly when it comes to parenting, if Ive experienced some form of pain or suffering because of the pain or suffering that perhaps my father or my parents had suffered, Im going to make sure that I break that cycle so that I dont pass it on, Harry told Shepard and co-host Monica Padman. Theres a lot of genetic pain and suffering that gets passed on anyway I never saw it, I never knew about it, and then suddenly I started to piece it together and go okay, so this is where he went to school, this is what happened, I know this about his life, I also know that is connected to his parents so that means hes treated me the way he was treated, so how can I change that for my own kids?'

The prince also compared royal life to a mix between The Truman Show and being in a zoo.

Expert says its obvious Meghan is calling all the shots

Prince Harry looking down as his wife, Meghan Markle, gives him a smile | Chris Jackson/Getty Images

In that same podcast, Harry spoke about living more privately now in California saying: In the U.S. I feel different, I can lift my head, my shoulders have dropped, so have [Meghans]. You can walk around feeling a little bit more free.

Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams discussed Harrys comments and behavior since moving abroad and pinned it all on Meghan, opining that the duchess tells him how to act and makes up his mind for him.

He claims hes found freedom. In reality, he seems to be increasingly trapped, but it is clear he doesnt realize it yet, Fitzwilliams said via The Sun. He tells us he and Meghan pretended they were ordinary people in a supermarket who didnt know each other and got weird looks, as well they might! He says he knows what makes a princess because Meghan told him.

The royal commentator added:  It is easy to conclude that he no longer makes his own mind up, it seems to be made up for him. Its sadly obvious.

Prince Harry told biographer he was happiest away from the royal family

Prince Harry in Afghanistan | John Stillwell  POOL/Anwar Hussein Collection/WireImage

Meghan has also been blamed for moving Harry out of the U.K. However, it should be noted that before he married his wife the Duke of Sussex revealed that he had a desire to leaving royal life behind. In 2017, Harry spoke to veteran author Angela Levin and stated that the happiest times of his life were when he was in the military and accepted as someone other than a royal.

He said to me that he was the happiest in the army because he was just Captain Wales. He wasnt Prince Harry, Levin recalled to the Daily Mail. He loved being out in Afghanistan. He was brought back because someone leaked that he was there and it became too dangerous for him and the soldiers.

Harry confessed that he even considered quitting royal life at that time telling Levin: I felt I wanted out but then decided to stay in and work out a role for myself.
Michael B. Jordan has been one of Hollywoods most popular actors in recent years. The Without Remorse star has been in several commercially successful films such as Black Panther and Creed, but that doesnt mean that Jordans automatically entitled to any role he wants.

In fact, he had to audition for a role in Star Wars: The Force Awakens several years ago, and it did not go well. According to Jordan, he wasnt able to get into character during the audition, and it ended up being the worst of his career.

Michael B. Jordan had the worst audition of his career for Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Michael B. Jordan attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards at Dolby Theatre | Christopher Polk/Getty Images

RELATED: Michael B. Jordan Was Heartbroken When He Wasnt Picked For A Role That Bow Wow Eventually Got

Jordan looked back on the trainwreck of an audition during a recent interview with Variety.

I think it was probably the Star Wars audition that I had with J.J., I think, Jordan said. I think that was probably like my worst audition to date.  It just It wasnt my best, Jordan said. It was probably my worst. It was probably my one, to date, that I remember, for sure.

He had a hard time getting into the character he was auditioning for

For Jordan, the audition was a challenge because he was given very limited information about the movie or the role. Massive franchises such as Star Wars and Marvel are known for being extremely secretive during the development process, so they often refuse to tell actors what theyre auditioning for.

I couldnt wrap my brain around some of the sides, Jordan said. Because you know when youre reading for these high-level projects, theres never really any specificity in the sides. Everythings like super vague; everything is in secret. Reading through, I just couldnt connect it.  I definitely bombed that one for sure.

Jordan added that the audition went so poorly that he left the studio as quickly as he could.

Oh, for sure, Jordan said. Im pretty sure I ran out of there  In the car, out of here, gone.

Michael B. Jordan says the Star Wars team made the right decision

Even though J.J. Abrams opted not to select Jordan to star in The Force Awakens, Jordan has been doing just fine. He admitted later in the interview that Abrams clearly made the right choice, as Star Wars has been a very successful franchise without him.

I dont think Ive seen J.J. since then, Jordan said. But Ive obviously seen the projects, everythings been going great. So its clearly the right decision.

Jordan noted that he understands why the process is so secretive during auditions, but still dislikes the position it puts actors in.

Like I said, just knowing the process you understand why its that way, you know? Jordan said. But as an actor, sometimes its tough when they cant give you a lot to kind of go off of and stuff like that.  Am I talking to Chewy right now? Where is he at? Where am I?
The world of NCIS is about to get a lot bigger. Pop culture fans, and longtime supporters of the NCIS franchise, are eagerly looking forward to the fall 2021 television season when NCIS: Hawaii is set to debut.

The spinoff, which was first rumored in February 2021, was finally confirmed by showrunners, and while some details are still scarce, some major announcements have been made in recent days. Most notably, showrunners revealed that actor Vanessa Lachey will be playing a key role in NCIS: Hawaii, portraying the character of Jane Tennant.

In spite of the exciting news, however, some fans have been vocal about how Lacheys role actually speaks to a pretty glaring plot point in the upcoming series.

NCIS: Hawaii is set to debut on television soon

RELATED: NCIS: Hawaii Would Have Epic CBS Crossover Potential

For years, there has been speculation in the NCIS fan base that a brand-new series would be coming soon. In the spring of 2021, the rumors were confirmed when showrunners at CBS announced that NCIS: Hawaii would be debuting.

The announcement came on the heels of the news that NCIS: New Orleans was getting canceled, with the final episode set to air in May 2021.

Over the past few weeks, more information has surfaced regarding the plot and filming details of the upcoming spinoff  and fans now know that the series will be filmed on location in Hawaii, providing a sense of authenticity and realism. As the fourth series in the franchise, expectations are high for NCIS: Hawaii  and many fans are fully expecting lots of crossover episodes with other shows in the NCIS universe.

Vanessa Lachey was recently cast as a lead in NCIS: Hawaii

NCIS: Hawaii lead Vanessa Lachey | Paul Archuleta/FilmMagic

RELATED: NCIS: Hawaii Has Fans Bewildered Over 1 CBS Connection

To date, showrunners have confirmed four actors that will be appearing in NCIS: Hawaii. One of these performers is Lachey, who will be taking on the role of Jane Tennant, the Special Agent in Charge of the NCIS Pearl Harbor Field Office.

Shortly after the news was announced, Lachey took to social media to share her excitement at joining the NCIS franchise: Honored is an understatement! Lachey wrote on Instagram. To join the NCIS franchise as the first female lead and to do it on the Beautiful Islands of Hawaii I still cant believe it! Thank You CBS for believing in me! Now lets get to work! #NCISHawaii.

While many fans are excited about what Lachey can bring to the role, others have spoken out in recent days, claiming that the character of Jane Tennant, and her listed occupation, potentially points to a major plot hole.

Fans pointed out a problem with Vanessa Lacheys NCIS: Hawaii character

#NCISHawaii: Theres a new crime-solving team in the Aloha State https://t.co/ictblL3rlg  TV Insider (@TVInsider) May 19, 2021

A recent report from Express detailed how some fans have expressed concern over the character that Lachey is set to play in NCIS: Hawaii. The report features a statement from one fan on Reddit, who wrote that one of the things that worries me about NCIS: Hawaii is the fact that the series lead Jane Tennant (portrayed by Vanessa Lachey) is introduced as: Lachey will play Jane Tennant, the first woman to be named special agent in charge of NCIS Pearl Harbor office.Do the writers not understand that Special Agent in Charge is a very administrative position? That would be like having Vance as the main character on NCIS. SACs day is filled by paperwork and meetings, not much time to involve themselves in a case in the field.

This same fan went on to question the franchises writers, posting how do the writers, after 18 years of making the NCIS-shows, still not know the proper terminology of what positions Special Agents hold? Other fans chimed in to agree  although some Reddit users did point out that technically, all Special Agents in the NCIS are really just civilians: Only some reserve personnel are classified as Agents (not Special Agents) and they perform some investigative or counterintelligence duties.

RELATED: Will NCIS: Hawaii Actually Be Filmed in Hawaii?
Reese Witherspoon has appeared in several biopics throughout her career. In 2006, she won an Academy Award for playing June Carter Cash in Walk the Line. Many years later, the actor starred in Wild, a biopic about author Cheryl Strayed. In 2010, Witherspoon received an offer to play Ree Drummond from The Pioneer Woman. Before the movie became an option, Drummond explained why Witherspoon was the perfect person to tell her story.

(L-R): Ree Drummond from The Pioneer Woman and Reese Witherspoon | Tyler Essary/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images, Matt Petit/A.M.P.A.S. via Getty Images

The Pioneer Woman star Ree Drummond once said she wanted Reese Witherspoon to portray her in a biopic

Drummond became famous in the mid-2000s. In 2006, she created her blog, The Pioneer Woman. On the blog, she opened up about her life with her family in Oklahoma. In addition to her comfort food recipes, Drummond also updates fans on her husband, Ladd Drummond, and their children Alex Drummond, Paige Drummond, Bryce Drummond, Todd Drummond, and her foster son, Jamar on her platforms.

RELATED: The Pioneer Woman: Why Ree Drummond Adds Mustard to Her Macaroni and Cheese

In 2011, Food Network approached Drummond about launching a cooking show. After the success of The Pioneer Woman, she decided to write a book that discussed how she and Ladd fell in love. When Drummond was in her twenties, she decided to give up her big-city life to live in Oklahoma with the love of her life. The book, The Pioneer Woman: Black Heels to Tractor Heels became a New York Times bestseller.

Two years before she released her biopic, Drummond shared with Forbes that the book was in the works. When asked who could play The Pioneer Woman, she said Witherspoon was her only option. She also said she wanted Ladd to play himself in the movie.

Reese Witherspoon for me; I love her temperament and her sweetness, Drummond declared. As for the Marlboro Man  I think I would like him to play himself.

Reese Witherspoon was offered to play The Pioneer Woman

Drummonds dreams of Witherspoon portraying almost came true. In 2010, the Legally Blonde star was the frontrunner for a potential adaptation of The Pioneer Womans book. Although the book hadnt come out yet, Deadline reported that a movie studio bought out the rights to Drummonds blog. However, the studio reached a roadblock when executive producer Laura Ziskin in 2011.

RELATED: The Pioneer Woman: Ree Drummond Says 1 Type of Dessert Is a Weakness of Mine

After one year of putting the project on hold, Drummond and her team worked on getting The Pioneer Woman on the big screen. As of 2021, there hasnt been a green light for the film.

While The Pioneer Woman movie remains on ice, Drummond continues to work on her show, cookbooks, and other projects to better connect with her audience.

I feel like they are my friends, even though I know just how weird that sounds, she said of her fans in 2010. The day I launched my cookbooks, I was interviewed in Oklahoma at a book signing, and I felt like I was getting ready to meet 500 of my friends. Thats the way the Internet is nowpeople connect to the world around all the time and make up these communities.
In this Nov. 10 file photo, the sun rises behind the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington. The Supreme Court has granted Oklahomas request to retain custody of a man whos been on death row for killing three Native Americans. Its a sign the court may be willing to limit the fallout from last years ruling that much of eastern Oklahoma remains a tribal reservation. The action came may 26 in the case of Shaun Bosse, whose conviction and death sentence for the murders of Katrina Griffin and her two young children were overturned by a state appeals court.
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, 
You are here: China

The Legislative Council (LegCo) of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) passed amendments to electoral laws on Thursday, wrapping up the local legislation of improving the financial hub's electoral system.
The pandemic is a microcosm revealing our worst impulses and how we are governed by them.

Image: Unsplash/Jason Leung

In the summer of 1994, the coolest kid in school wrote seven words in my yearbook that in many ways capture the essence of the Asian American experience, then and today.

In dark blue ink and perfect cursive he wrote: You are the coolest slanty I know.

His words actually made me laugh out loud at first but saddened me an instant later because of their inherent tragedy. The real somatic element of the Asian American experience is not the ongoing incendiary slights, or even the projection of the model minority myth, but rather how we are systemically limited by our ethnicity.

I know my friends intention wasnt to ostracize me or denigrate me, but when your ethnicity is continually used to diminish your accomplishments, it has a way of really getting into your head. Did my friend really think I was cool or was he just humoring me? As Asian Americans, we thus develop this chronic neurosis about even the most inconsequential versions of ourselves presented by others and the broader culture.

If America criminalizes black lives, it euphemizes Asian lives. If the black myth is that black lives are dangerous, angry, and desperate, then the Asian myth is that Asians are all harmless, subservient, and goody-two-shoes to the last. Perhaps this explains in part why bystanders are attacking Asian lives in broad daylight unprovoked while law enforcement at times uses excessive force with black lives.

This homogenization of Asian Americans by the dominant culture categorizes Asian lives as a prosaic uniformity, stripping us of our ingenuity and individuality as if we are all somehow made at the same remote factory in an unmarked location in Asia.

As the Harvard poet and abolitionist Henry David Thoreau once warned, there are a thousand striking at the leaves of evil for those who are aiming at the root. Consequently, if we sincerely wish to bring about transformative change in American society and remove the hate at the systematic level, we must first seek to understand the root of this ingrained hostility, or our activism will be in vain. As a country, what then can we do to collectively strike at the root of evil rather than merely hacking away at its leaves?

First, we need to remember the cyclical nature of human history.

Many have spoken about the recurrent nature of human history. Solomon wrote, What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun. Mark Twain wrote that history does not repeat itself, but it rhymes. Hate isnt a novel phenomenon, nor is xenophobia, and although this truth doesnt alleviate the fresh and raw wounds of those presently being assailed, it can nevertheless provide a critical framework for exploring the root beneath this entrenched animosity.

The current public health emergency has been a very dark period for those of Asian descent in America, but again this isnt new. For example, the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 was a direct consequence of anti-Chinese prejudice. It shaped national public health policy by scapegoating Chinese immigrants for epidemic outbreaks on the Pacific coast in the early 1860s. This scapegoating was in stark contrast to the public perception of a decade earlier when Chinese immigrants were widely esteemed for their diligence and thrift. The hostility only began to gather momentum when Chinese immigrants prevented white laborers up and down the Pacific Coast from unionizingbecause most Chinese laborers were willing to work for much less. Thus, the rise of xenophobia and medical scapegoating became operative only when the economic interests of the dominant culture were threatened by Chinese migrants.

Many have correlated Trumps incendiary labeling of covid as the Chinese virus or more abhorrently as Kung Flu with the rise of hate crimes against those of Asian descent. However, Trumps hostile words are by no means isolated. Both those of the dominant culture and people of color have participated in the 3,800 hate-related incidents reported by Asian Americans during the pandemic. At the same time, the tension between China and the United States is escalating as economists project China will overtake the United States as the worlds largest economy in less than a decade.

As Mark Twain wrote, a repeat occurrence is the definition of recurrence. Anti-Asian sentiment in America is resurfacing because the economic interests of the dominant culture are again threatened and perhaps never more so than today or on a larger scale. This is a critical discovery because it suggests the cyclical rise of xenophobia in human history has little to do with race and more to do with a clash of power. Such hostility is not based on anything Asian Americans have done or not done; it is simply incited by fear, and unfortunately, the axe of collateral damage has fallen on Asian lives.

Second, hate is a signpost pointing to something deeper.

Perhaps if we want to better understand the roots of xenophobia, we must first explore the propensity of our own hearts toward darkness. As an Asian American minister serving in downtown Manhattan, where many of these abhorrent acts have occurred. I must confess that each time Ive watched a new video of the most vulnerable in our community being targeted and abused, I am myself tempted by evil.

As I observed Good Friday and the passion of the Christ this past month, I was again reminded of my own gangster-like proclivities toward vengeance, despite the example Christ set on the cross. Although Covid originated in China, the hate brewing in my own heart and in our country today originates from somewhere much more insidious than the birthplace of a virus. Such hate lurks in the darkness of our own hearts and is born out of our sinfulness. Perhaps it is not human history that is cyclical, after all, but rather human nature. Human history is driven by our individual propensities for fear and greed, which in turn bring about periods of great instability. Covid is a microcosm revealing our worst impulses and how we are governed by them.

I come to the foot of the cross because my primal tendencies toward self-interest, sin, and darkness usually overshadow my capacity to love. I am haunted by the words Jesus uttered on the cross: Father forgive them, for they do not know what they do. Although, my heart revolts in protest, I keep praying anyway and hope his love breaks in.

Annotation

Chinese Economy to Overtake US 'by 2028' Due to Covid. BBC News. BBC, December 26, 2020. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-55454146#:~:text=China%20will%20overtake%20the%20US,previously%20forecast%2C%20a%20report%20says.

BCC reports that China will overtake the US to become the world's largest economy by 2028, five years earlier than previously forecast, a report says. The UK-based Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) said China's "skillful" management of Covid-19 would boost its relative growth compared to the US and Europe in coming years.

Mark Twain, "The Jumping Frog: In English, Then in French, and Then Clawed Back into a Civilized Language Once More by Patient, Unremunerated Toil.Harper & Brothers, 1903. P. 64.

Mark Twain, (Samuel L. Clemens) and Charles Dudley Warner. "The Gilded Age: A Tale of To-Day. American Publishing Company, 1874. p. 430.

Thoreau, Henry David. Walden: A Fully Annotated Edition. AbeBooks. Yale University Press, January 1, 1970.

Trauner, Joan B. "The Chinese as Medical Scapegoats in San Francisco, 1870-1905." California History 57, no. 1 (1978): 70-87. Accessed April 6, 2021. doi:10.2307/25157817.

Trauners journal article provides a comprehensive examination of the anti-Chinese prejudice as reflected in the formation of public health policy on the west coast during the 1850s and 1860s, especially the distress to restrict Chinese Immigration into the United States. In addition, to how Chinese migrants became medical scapegoats in San Francisco from the 1870s to 1905 apart from any scientific evidence and only grounded in xenophobia.
Johnnie Moore called Chinas recent decision to bar him from entering the country a publicity stunt and a sign that Americans continued advocacy on behalf of religious minorities is having an effect.

After concluding his second term serving on the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) earlier this month, the evangelical leader was sanctioned by the Chinese government Wednesday for his outspoken criticism toward what he deemed the worlds foremost violator of human rights and religious freedom.

USCIRFs annual report, released in April, condemned Chinas religious freedom violations and designated the countrys abuse of the Uighur Muslim population as genocide. Moorehead of the PR firm Kairos Group and a faith adviser to former president Donald Trumphas addressed those issues and stood by pro-democracy advocates in Hong Kong, including Catholic businessman Jimmy Lai. Lai was sentenced to prison last month for his role in the 2019 protests.

In a Beijing press conference, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian claimed Moores advocacy and the recent USCIRF report adopts the guise of religious freedom concerns to interfere with Chinese affairs, but really ignores facts and is based on lies, the state-backed Global Times reported.

The decision to block Moore and his family from entering China, Hong Kong, or Macau was a countermeasure to recent State Department sanctions against a former Chinese official involved in detaining members of the Falun Gong movement, a minority faith which China designates as a cult. China took similar action against USCIRF Chair Gayle Manchin and Vice Chair Tony Perkins in March. That was the first time in USCIRF history that a foreign government had imposed sanctions against individual commissioners.

In this years USCIRF report, the commission recommended the US government respond to deteriorating conditions in China with targeted financial and visa sanctions on those responsible for religious freedom violations. In his own commentary, Moore called on the US and its allies to stand up to the CCP and stop ignoring its abuses.

It is an honor to be sanctioned by the Chinese Communist Party for giving my voice to the Uyghur Muslims, Christians (including Jimmy Lai), Tibetan Buddhists & countless others the CCP tries to silence every daya privilege of living in the United States, the land of the free and the home of the brave, Moore said in a statement.

He told CT that he believes his evangelical faith and his efforts to build bipartisan support around addressing human rights violations in China were factors in why the government chose him to target.

However, he has no plans to visit the country and sees their efforts to sanction a private citizen as a sign that officials are shaken by the continued criticism coming from the US. They are weaker than they want us to believe that they are, he said.

USCIRF chair Gayle Manchin said in an interview with CT in April that the US has a clear understanding of the violations happening there, particularly at forced labor camps.

It is not only so egregious, but they [Chinese officials] are trying to spread among other nations that what they are doing is okay, she said. With Chinas overall goal of global power, it is very frightening.
Youre not like most Youth Pastors. They said to me half-jokingly. I was sitting at the lunch table with my two key youth volunteers as we were making plans for our first summer camp together. These two had been running the youth ministry at our small church for the last couple of years. I had recently been hired to take over and I asked them if they would stay on as volunteers. They agreed.

The days and weeks ahead were filled with conversations about youth ministry and philosophy and the why behind our programs. We got to know each other and we did our best to figure out youth ministry at our church together. What do you mean? I asked curiously. Well, they said, Most youth pastors want to preach every lesson at camp and always be the person up front. But you are always giving stuff like that away.

What these two, and our larger team now, has come to realize is that my desire as the Pastor of our group is not to be the one up-front and leading everything all the time. Instead my desire is to be the one equipping other leaders to the be all that God has created them to be for the sake of the students we are serving. If that is a teacher or a preacher, great. It may be that the volunteer wants to be a game leader, small group leader, worship leader, behind the scenes set-up person, prayer person, someone who brings the donuts or otherwise. Whatever gift God has given them to do, I see my job is to make sure they can do it and do it well. This is born out of specific philosophy of ministry. It is one of equipping the saints.

Last week I began a series about my ministry philosophy. I started with listening. This week I move to equipping leaders. Equipping leaders is a key component to my ministry philosophy.

Ephesians 4:11-16 says this:

He gave some apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers. His purpose was to equip Gods people for the work of serving and building up the body of Christ until we all reach the unity of faith and knowledge of Gods Son. Gods goal is for us to become mature adultsto be fully grown, measured by the standard of the fullness of Christ. As a result, we arent supposed to be infants any longer who can be tossed and blown around by every wind that comes from teaching with deceitful scheming and the tricks people play to deliberately mislead others. Instead, by speaking the truth with love, lets grow in every way into Christ, who is the head. The whole body grows from him, as it is joined and held together by all the supporting ligaments. The body makes itself grow in that it builds itself up with love as each one does its part.

The vision for the church here is of a body with lots of different body parts performing lots of functions. As each part performs its function, the body grows and matures with Christ as the head. In my ministry, part of my job, as a Pastor at a local church, is to facilitate this. I see what I do in Youth Ministry as not just loving and leading young people. That is a big and important part of it. But it is actually more than that.

My Youth Ministry is a training ground for adults and students to discover their God-given gifts and use those gifts in service to the church. This is why I give a lot of time and attention to building my volunteer ministry team. I have been at my current church for almost two years now. My top priority when I was hired was to recruit, build community with and disciple a group of adult volunteers from the church who would serve as Youth Leaders. This Youth Leader Team is made up of people who are passionate about students and families. They are people who are great preachers and teachers and worship leaders and small group leaders. They have also become a group of friends, people who love and support and pray for one another throughout the week. We are even going on a weekend retreat together this summer!

Some people might look at that and say, Well, thats not youth ministry! There are no students around. But that is where an equipping leaders philosophy may differ from a more traditional ministry philosophy where the Pastor is to be the primary worker in the ministry. My ministry is to my volunteer leaders. They are not a means to the end of accomplishing ministry. They are my ministry. As they are equipped they will be able to grow and thrive by using their gifts. As they are equipped they will build up the Church.

How are you equipping leaders this week in your own ministry? In your own church? In your own family? In your own vocation?
'60 Minutes' slammed for airing detransitioners who regret transgender medicalization

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A CBS "60 Minutes" segment highlighting the suffering of individuals harmed by transgender medicalization has raised the ire of LGBT activists and has others believing a shift in the debate over transgenderism is near.

In its coverage about the various bills that have arisen across the country aiming to prohibit the use of experimental drugs and the performing of cosmetic gender surgeries on minors in several states, the Sunday broadcast featured an approximately 7-minute portion featuring detransitioners.

Detransitioners are those who once identified as transgender but now regret their decisions to transition and have begun reintegrating with their biological sex.

The segment featured veteran television journalist Lesley Stahl interviewing several young people who had undergone medicalized gender transition procedures. All of them said they were rushed into a decision and affirmed their transgender identities too hastily.

"I didn't get enough pushback on transitioning. I went for two appointments and after the second one, I had my letter to go get on cross-sex hormones," said one young man named Garrett from Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Stahl responded, with seeming disbelief: Two visits?

While repeated assertions abound from transgender activists who argue that gender-dysphoric youth are at higher odds than the general public to commit suicide if not allowed to transition, Garrett said his depression worsened after he had his testicles removed and had surgery on his chest to appear more female.

"I had never really been suicidal before until I had my breast augmentation," he said. "And about a week afterward, I wanted to actually kill myself. I had a plan and I was going to do it but I just kept thinking about my family to stop myself."

Another detransitioner, Grace Lidinsky-Smith, chose to go on testosterone and have her breasts amputated during her 20s. She told Stahl how surprised she was at the ease and speed she could alter her body in pursuit of being a male and then revert to her natal sex.

I cant believe I transitioned then detransitioned, including hormones and surgery, in the course of like, less than one year, she said.

Not long after undergoing a double mastectomy, she said that she "started to have a really disturbing sense that, like, a part of my body was missing, almost a ghost limb feeling about being like, there's something that should be there."

Following the segment, "60 Minutes" interviewed the president of the prominent pro-LGBT activist group Human Rights Campaign, Alphonso David. The activist argued that by highlighting the accounts of detransitioners, already marginalized trans-identified people are further harmed.

Despite the broadly sympathetic coverage, transgender activists in the legal, psychiatric and medical fields were upset that detransitioners stories were given airtime in the broadcast. They took to social media to voice their complaints.

"Lesley Stahl, [CBS journalists] Alexandra Poolos, and Collette Richards knew exactly the harm they were causing with last nights segment. They knew it was the wrong moment and a dangerous, unaccountable and limited angle. But they did it anyway. Thats on all of you," tweeted Chase Strangio, a transgender activist and attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union.

Jack Turban, child psychiatry fellow at Stanford University, stated on Twitter Monday that he spoke with CBS about the story and asked where the network found the detransitioners to profile. The network reportedly refused to tell him.

"We still dont know if they searched for people on TERF forums, and transparency would be appreciated," he said.

The term "TERF" is a derogatory slur that stands for "trans-exclusionary radical feminist" and is used to demean women who resist gender ideology.

Screenshots captured by the trans-critical website 4thWaveNow.com revealed Dr. Johanna Olson-Kennedy, one of the most infamous pediatric gender doctors globally, voicing her dismay in the comments section Wednesday on a post in the International Transgender Health Facebook page. She allegedly wrote that "so many of us worked hard to dissuade" CBS from airing the segment on detransitioners and referred to the network's decision to run it anyway as a "shameful" ploy for ratings.

Olson-Kennedy, who heads a youth transgender clinic at Children's Hospital-Los Angeles, is a gender doctor among the recipients of a $5.7 million National Institutes of Health research grant. In one of her publications, it shows that mastectomies have been done on girls as young as 13. In a video clip that continues to be circulated online, Olson-Kennedy is seen on tape insisting adolescents have the capacity to make life-altering decisions, including having their breasts removed.

"And here's the other thing about chest surgery: If you want breasts at a later point in your life, you can go and get them," she says in the video.

A 2017 progress report on the NIH grant that was unearthed through a Freedom of Information Act request by concerned doctors revealed that for Olson-Kennedy's experimental study at CHLA, the minimum age for cross-sex hormones in youth was lowered from 13 to 8.

For critics of the transgender movement, the breakthrough of detransitioners stories into the U.S. legacy media is a particularly crucial moment in documenting what some, including Harry Potter series author J.K. Rowling, call a burgeoning "medical scandal" of medicalizing gender in young people.

"It is outstanding that 60 Minutes chose to air the voices of these young women (and one young man) whose bodies have been irreparably damaged by this vicious industry," said radical feminist activist Kara Dansky in an email to The Christian Post Wednesday. She serves on the steering committee of the U.S. chapter of the Women's Human Rights Campaign.

"Most mainstream media outlets refuse to cover this issue fairly, but once the general public is able to hear from more feminists, gay rights activists, and those harmed by the industry, the gender identity industry will wither on the vine."



Dansky has previously emphasized that the major media's framing of these issues in civil rights terms and the near-total blackout of left-leaning and lesbian and gay voices who oppose transgender ideology is calculated and intentional. She argued in a May 13 blog post that since the arguments of gender identity activists cannot withstand slight scrutiny, the press will not publish feminist or gay rights viewpoints that challenge them.

Thus far, Stahl, whose reporting was subsequently highlighted by Fox News host Tucker Carlson, is defending her coverage of the issue. She said in a follow-up segment to the broadcast that it was a story worth telling.

"Their point is that they were not getting proper healthcare," Stahl said. "That was their point and that's the point we wanted to emphasize: that these were young people that were not getting proper healthcare advice."
US evangelical leader Johnnie Moore sanctioned by China for religious freedom advocacy

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China sanctioned a United States private citizen and evangelical leader on Wednesday for exposing human rights abuses and standing up for the religious freedom of Uyghur Muslims, Christians and other minority faith groups that are being silenced and oppressed.

Rev. Johnnie Moore, a two-time commissioner who served on the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom and president of the Congress of Christian Leaders, said it is an honor to be sanctioned by China because of his advocacy for people of oppressed minority faiths.

If the cost of sanctioning Chinese officials responsible for human rights abuses in China is the sanctioning of activists like me, then I say, fine, I am more than happy to be sanctioned, Moore told The Christian Post in an interview on Thursday.

Moore, a public relations executive and a former Liberty University vice president, said there is no better compliment for a human rights activist to actually get under the skin of those you are calling to change.

Its literally millions of people like me around the world who are saying in one clear voice, we love China, we love the Chinese people, he said. We understand it is a certain type of political system. But these types of behaviors are not the types of behaviors were willing to accept in the modern world, and were going to be unrelenting.' And clearly, [China is] paying attention.

As a human rights advocate who shines a light on atrocities, it sometimes seems to go unnoticed. But for China, Moore said it has become increasingly clear that the government is noticing that the tide of the world is finally turning against them in this regard. They are deeply, deeply concerned about it."

It is an honor to be sanctioned by the Chinese Communist Party for giving my voice to the Uyghur Muslims, Christians [including Jimmy Lai], Tibetan Buddhists & countless others the CCP tries to silence every day," he shared in a tweet.

Moore called his ability to freely advocate for the oppressed "a privilege of living in the United States, the land of the free and the home of the brave."

The CCP doesnt understand the difference between the truth and a lie' but heres some truth we know: they are weaker than they want us to believe that they are, Moore continued. A global coalition is building to hold them to account and it transcends political parties and U.S. administrations. This Great Wall of Collaboration is a promise to future generations that we will not hand our world to the CCP to victimize the innocent as they please.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken released a statement on Thursday promising the U.S. will continue to speak out for human rights and promote accountability for the Chinese governments abuses.

Beijings attempts to intimidate and silence those speaking out for human rights and fundamental freedoms, including freedom of religion or belief, only draw additional international attention and scrutiny to its egregious abuses, Blinken said.

This includes the ongoing crimes against humanity and genocide in Xinjiang, as well as its repression of religious and spiritual adherents, including Tibetan Buddhists, Christians, and Falun Gong practitioners."

Blinken condemned the Chinese governments baseless sanctions imposed in March against USCIRF Chair Gayle Manchin and Vice-Chair Tony Perkins for speaking out against the genocide and human rights abuses of Uyghur Muslims.

Moores service as a USCIRF commissioner ended several weeks ago, so the CCP sanctioned him as a private citizen in response to the State Departments release of the 2020 Report on International Religious Freedom and the announcement of sanctions of a Chinese official.

China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian said the 2020 report is a disregard of facts and fraught with ideological bias, has unscrupulously denigrated China's religious policy and severely interfered in China's internal affairs.

Lijian said China firmly rejects the report, which led them to impose sanctions on Moore. China urges the U.S. side to rectify its mistake, rescind the so-called sanctions and stop interfering China's internal affairs in the name of religious issues.

Lijian said in a press conference on Wednesday that China sanctioned Moore in response to the [U.S.] blatant move to endorse cults and impose unilateral sanctions on Chinese personnel based on lies and disinformation.

The sanction forbids Moore and his family members from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao of China

Moore said the sanction is partly a retaliatory measure, its partly a PR stunt and its partly about intimidation.

One of the key phrases in my official statement in response to [the sanction] is that the United States of America is the land of the free," Moore said. Its the home of the brave. We have always used our freedom as not only something to enjoy in the boundaries of our own country but as our responsibility in the world to use our freedom on behalf of those who dont have it.

 ... We havent been easily intimidated in the history of our great country. Despite all of the different parts of our history, there is one thread that runs through it, which is that we are a brave, proud people who are obsessed with self-corrections within our own history and who are always raising our voice on the behalf of those that need [it] around the world. So, I think it is partly an exercise in intimidation. But were not an easily-intimidated people, he continued.

Moore said the sanctions will not silence him.

If by sanctioning Americans youre attempting to silence us, the exact opposite things going to happen, Moore shared. Sanctioning me is not going to silence me. Its going to cause me to become more aggressive. Its going to cause me to raise my voice more. As best as I can tell, this is simply a travel ban.

Moore assured that he loves China and has for years displayed a willingness to "sit at the table" and "have these conversations."

I am not against the Chinese people. I am not against China. Im an American. I believe in the free market.  But when you believe in the free market, you have to fight fair. And one of the reasons the United States of America has been blessed the way it has been is [that] it has been the freest country in human history and it has taken that freedom and it has used it to raise a voice for those who arent free.

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and 27 other Trump administration officials, including former Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar, former national security adviser Robert O'Brien and former White House Chief Strategist Steve Bannon, were also sanctioned by China just minutes after President Joe Biden took office.

The sanctions restricted these individuals, their immediate family members and companies or institutions associated with them from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao of China since they seriously disrupted China-U.S. relations, a Jan. 20 statement from a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said.

The Trump administration designated the Chinese persecution of the minority Uyghur Muslims as a genocide and crimes against humanity against in January.

In the western Xinjiang province, the Uyghur and other ethnic Muslims undergo mass internment, forced labor and forced sterilization under the Chinese Communist Party.

Moore met with the transition teams between the Trump and Biden administrations in January to discuss religious freedom and human rights.

The United States needs to use its unrivaled stature in the world to build an alliance beginning in Europe but extending certainly throughout the continents  to further build this great wall of collaboration to serve as a wall of freedom that ensures that China cannot buy its way, extort its way, lend its way and engage in other extortionist tactics in order to buy alliances throughout the world. , Moore said.

The government of China must change its behavior, or the U.S. will continue to try to stifle its influence throughout the world, Moore added.

... The last thing that I want is a bad relationship between the U.S. and China. I think the U.S. and China ought to tomorrow decide to turn a page on recent days and to pursue a fairer, more just approach to their relationship and to their joint efforts around the world in shaping the future for everyone," he said. "But the Communist Party is going to have to change their behavior. And if they are unwilling to change their behavior, then the United States needs to do what needs to be done to make it more difficult for the Communist Party to export their behavior to other parts of the world.

Moore believes the Biden administration should take a page out of the Trump administrations playbook and keep unrelenting pressure on the Communist Party and sanction those responsible for the atrocities being committed.

Human rights and religious freedom must be at the heart of American foreign policy, he stressed.

Chrisitan persecution watchdog group Open Doors USA ranks China, the worlds most populous country with over 1.4 billion people, at No. 17 on its 2021 World Watch List of countries where Christians face the most severe persecution.
Craig Groeschel offers biblical wisdom for pastors feeling 'burnout' coming out of pandemic

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Life.Church Senior Pastor Craig Groeschel has encouraged church leaders who are feeling a sense of uselessness, exhaustion" and "burnout coming out of the pandemic to allow the needs of their communities and the power of the Gospel to compel them to fulfill their God-given mission.

Our nation and many parts of the world are starting to function, not normally, but moving in the trajectory of normal again. I think it's a good time to reset it and take an account: What do we still have? What are our goals? How, in any way, do our goals differ moving forward? the Oklahoma-based pastor said during Exponential's Reset Summit last week.

Pastors need to lead with confidence moving forward, Groeschel said, and will need to examine the whys behind what we do.

Even though we don't have all the answers ... I am 100% confident in the power of the Gospel and 100% confident in the need for the Church and in the ability for the Church to endure and to thrive. I also believe that it's in times like this that the Church should be thriving. I both have unanswered questions like everybody else ... and confidence together.

The bestselling author went on to identify some of the issues hes seen pastors and church leaders face as the pandemic slows and churches begin to reopen. He said that in some cases, hes seen some pastors struggle with feeling a sense of uselessness, exhaustion [and] burnout."

In other cases, the pastor said church leaders are dealing with a sense of loss and grief as their churches reopen and attendance is low, while others have seen an increase in numbers over the last few months.

No matter what the state is, I'm going to be mission-focused, mission-centric in everything that we do, and go back to: Why does the Church matter? Who is the Church to God? What is our calling in the world? How do we need to do Church? ... How do we think about church building, church planting? he said.

I don't want to rebuild to the past; I want to build to the future, he added.

Groeschel, who contracted COVID-19 last March, told pastors: You're not going to get everybody back that was coming 18 months ago. Just not gonna happen.  I wouldn't wake up talking about getting everybody back; I'd wake up thinking, How do we reach the lost? How do we assimilate them into a larger Body of Christ? And let that mission overwhelm any grief you have of what you've lost. Let it move you past any sense of feeling displaced.

We've got more work to do, he stressed. And very important work to do to minister to people that are ripe for the Gospel right now, meaning, I guarantee there are more people addicted than there was 18 months ago. There's more marriages hurting, there are more suicidal thoughts, there's more depression and more loneliness, more brokenness. The Gospel works in any environment ... it's desperately needed right now.

Let the opportunity and the needs before you and the power of the Gospel drive you out of whatever pain you have to be compelled into a mission of doing what we're uniquely created to do.

Groeschel, whose church has 90,000 attendees at its 34 campuses spread over 10 states, admitted that since the pandemic, hes had to work through the funk himself, admitting hes woken up so many times feeling confused and inadequate.

But then I go back to, the Word of God is everlasting. His Church, the bride of Christ, will endure. We've endured more difficult times than this, and ... we may be moving into some shakiness and persecution. That's exactly what the Church needs to wake her up and to unify her, to go back to preaching the purity of the Gospel maybe in a way that we weren't as compelled to do before.

The theme of this years Exponential's RESET Summit was Leading With Confidence in the Post-COVID Church. Other speakers included Francis Chan, Matt Chandler, and pastor and author Pete Scazzero.

Chandler, head of Village Church in Texas, said during his session that though there is a growing hostility toward the Church, the Body of Christ was made for this moment and stressed the need for discipleship.

God created us for this moment. Let's step into it with all the zeal of those who understand how the story ends, he said.

If the Church believes it's over and we've lost, and it's over ... what an opportunity we just squandered, he said. People are more lonely, more desperate. Secularism has been exposed as lacking; our sexual ethics is starting to show the cracks in its ideology. What an opportunity to step in and be this plausibility structure that, life can be different than you see it, life can be different than you know it, and here's a group of people that embody that and believe it and pray and worship and love one another in a way that shows you there's something better than the life you're in.
Methodists protest UMC bishop for terminating 3 theologically conservative Korean pastors

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A group of Methodists in California are protesting against a regional body of the United Methodist Church, accusing its leadership of mistreating three theologically conservative Korean pastors by terminating their appointments.

The Rev. Jonathan Lee of San Diego Korean United Methodist Church, the Rev. Jae Duk Lew of the Valley Korean United Methodist Church, and the Rev. Nak In Kim of the Bell Memorial United Methodist Church each had their appointments as senior pastors terminated.

The three pastors fell under the jurisdiction of the UMC California-Pacific Conference, a largely theologically progressive regional body headed by Bishop Grant Hagiya.

Nearly 50 people demonstrated outside the conference offices in Pasadena on Saturday, protesting against Hagiya, who they've accused of bullying the pastors for not aligning with his views on the schism debate within the UMC.

For decades, the UMC has debated whether to change its biblically-based stance on marriage and sexuality, as outlined in the denomination's Book of Discipline that identifies homosexuality as a sin, bans the ordination of noncelibate homosexuals, and prohibits the blessing of same-sex marriages.

The Rev. Glen Haworth, president of the California-Pacific chapter of the theologically conservative Wesleyan Covenant Association, was part of Saturday's demonstration.

In an interview with The Christian Post, Haworth explained that he believed Bishop Hagiya targeted three Korean-American pastors for their activities with the Wesleyan Covenant Association, in preparing their congregations to disaffiliate from the UMC once the Protocol for Separation is approved by the General Conference of the UMC.

These pastors were doing nothing wrong. The bishop felt they were being disloyal to him, and so he simply removed them from their churches, Haworth said.

They serve thriving, vibrant congregations that are doing significant ministry. There was no purpose to removing them except to further the bishops own agenda.

Haworth also told CP that the WCA chapter he leads sent a letter of protest to the bishop, with others emailing local churches, accusing the bishop of racist actions.

Bishop Hagiya is Japanese-American, and there is a long history of racist actions by Japanese against Koreans, he explained. We plan further protests, and well as a possible boycott of the Episcopal Fund in the denomination, from which bishops are paid.

Haworth said Saturdays demonstration went extremely well, noting that the private security guarding the UMC offices commended them for being civil in their protest.

The Christian Post reached out to the California-Pacific Conference for a response to the accusations of mistreatment, but they did not return comment by press time.

The Korean Caucus of the Conference also started an online petition demanding that the bishop openly provide an understandable explanation for causing frustration and harm inflicted on the Korean church due to this situation.

Helena Kim, co-chairwoman of the California-Pacific Conferences Korean Caucus who was involved in the demonstration, told CP that she believed Hagiya is abusing his authority as a bishop to essentially harm the pastors' ministry, their credibility [and] the three churches.

According to Kim, the pastors and their churches have taken a legal action by jointly filing a complaint with the UMC Judicial Committee against bishop Hagiya and his superintendents.

The Cal-Pac Korean Laity Network has drawn up a resolution citing the unjust actions of the bishop and demanding the withdrawal of his wrongful decision, she added, noting that around 3,000 had signed the resolution.
University of Alabama sued for restricting students' 'spontaneous' expression ADF attorneys say university policy violates state law

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Students from a Young Americans for Liberty chapter filed a lawsuit last week against the University of Alabama for requiring students to obtain a permit to speak on campus five business days in advance, which they say violates a state free speech law.

Since applications for speaking permits undergo university approval, attorneys for the students argue that university policy allows administrators to be selective of the speaking events or viewpoints they allow. They say the policy illegally prevents students from spontaneous expression or promoting their events.

The lawsuit argues that the university policy goes against Alabamas Campus Free Speech Act and the Alabama Constitutions Free Speech Clause, which restricts public colleges from inhibiting students free speech rights.

YAL is a nationwide libertarian youth organization that advances liberty on campuses. The group is represented by attorneys from Alliance Defending Freedom, a nonprofit legal organization that advocates for free speech and has won several U.S. Supreme Court cases in recent years.

All students  regardless of viewpoint  have the freedom to share their beliefs and engage in civil debate on campus without first asking college administrators for permission to speak, ADF Legal Counsel Michael Ross said in a statement.

Universities are supposed to be the very places where students are free to explore diverse ideas and engage in civil and meaningful debate, but the University of Alabama is shutting down this debate with its burdensome speech policies."

YAL students often refrain from engaging with other students about gun control policy, federalism and other policy issues due to the suppressive speech policies, ADF reported.

Young Americans for Liberty exists to promote the principles of individual liberty, but the University of Alabamas policies severely restrict our students ability to speak freely about these principles on campus, YAL Director of Free Speech JP Kirby said.

Students dont need a permit to speak freely on a public campus, Kirby continued. And they dont give up their constitutionally protected freedoms when they step onto campus or hold a specific viewpoint.

The university has seven designated free speech zones that make up less than 1% of the campus where students can engage in spontaneous expression.

University officials cant banish freedom of thought to the remote corners of campus, keeping certain ideas out of sight and out of mind, ADF tweeted on Monday.

The lawsuit highlights how the university's policies have restricted the club from being able to recruit members, which has led to decreased funding for their organization.

The Christian Post reached out to the university for comment on the lawsuit. A response is pending.

Tyson Langhofer, ADF senior counsel and director of the Center for Academic Freedom, said that legal action wouldn't be necessary if university officials respected the states law protecting free speech on college campuses.

Todays college students are our future legislators, judges, and voters. Thats why its so important that public universities model the values theyre supposed to be teaching students and that colleges and universities in Alabama respect state law, Langhofer said.

We are grateful that Gov. Ivey signed the FORUM Act [Forming Open and Robust University Minds] into law," Langhofer continued, "but now university officials must act consistently with that law to ensure that pro-liberty students  like all students  have the freedom to share their beliefs anywhere on campus, and without first asking college administrators for permission to speak."

The 2021 Spotlight on Speech Codes, a study conducted by Foundation for Individual Rights in Education [FIRE], revealed that 88% of American universities restricted free speech in some form after surveying 478 colleges and universities.

In March 2019, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order to deny grants to universities that stifle free speech and said public institutions would not be allowed to violate their students constitutional rights.

"Under the guise of speech codes, safe spaces and trigger warnings, these universities have tried to restrict free thought, impose total conformity and shut down the voices of great young Americans like those here today, Trump said at the time.
High school backs down after opposing Christian language in student's graduation speech

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A high school in Michigan has reversed course after initially telling a graduating senior that references to her Christian beliefs were "not appropriate" for her upcoming valedictory speech, her lawyers say.

After receiving a demand letter from the First Liberty Institute, officials at Hillsdale High School relented after pressuring student Elizabeth Turner to alter the valedictory speech for her June 6 graduation ceremony.

"Im grateful I will be able to share my faith with my classmates, and I pray that God uses this situation to advance His kingdom," Turner said in a statement Thursday shared by First Liberty Institute, a legal nonprofit that defends First Amendment rights.

The religious liberty group sent the letter to Principal Amy Goldsmith on Wednesday, asking her to allow the valedictorian to talk about her faith as she had initially planned.

Graduation is a time for celebration not censorship, First Liberty Institute Counsel Keisha Russell said in a statement.

Students retain their constitutional rights to freedom of expression from elementary school all the way through the graduation ceremony. All public schools should protect the private religious expression of their students."

Turner, who was chosen as one of the school's valedictorian speakers, had planned to tell the crowd that her "future hope is found in my relationship with Christ."

"By trusting him and choosing to live a life dedicated to bringing his kingdom glory, I can be confident that I am living a life filled with purpose and meaning," one section of the student's speech reads. "My identity is found by what God says and who I want to become is laid out in scripture.

After reviewing a revised draft of Turners speech Monday, First Liberty reports that Goldsmith informed Turner that we need to be mindful about the inclusion of religious aspects.

According to the demand letter, Goldsmith told the student that "These are your strong beliefs, but they are not appropriate for a speech in a school public setting."

"I know this will frustrate you, but we have to be mindful of it," the principal was quoted as saying.

In the letter, Russell and First Liberty Counsel Mike Berry criticized Goldsmiths assertion that Turners remarks about her religion were not appropriate for a speech in a public school setting, citing guidance from the U.S. Department of Education.

The guidance, issued Jan. 16, 2020, states that when students or other private graduation speakers are "selected on the basis of genuinely content-neutral, evenhanded criteria" and "maintain primary control over the content of their expression," that "expression is not attributable to the school and therefore may not be restricted because of its religious (or anti-religious) content.

The guidance acknowledged that in cases where school officials determine or substantially control the content of what is expressed, such speech is attributable to the school and may not include prayer or other specifically religious (or anti-religious) content.

However, the guidance encouraged schools to avoid any mistaken perception that a school endorses student speech that is not in fact attributable to the school by making appropriate, neutral disclaimers to clarify that such speech (whether religious or nonreligious) is the speakers and not the schools speech.

While Goldsmith never mentioned the First Amendment or the Establishment Clause of the U.S. Constitution, Turners attorneys explained to her that student graduation speeches constitute private speech, not government speech, and private speech is not subject to the Establishment Clause.

Citing the Supreme Courts decision in Westside Community Board of Education v. Mergens, the attorneys maintained that Ms. Turners statements do not transform into government speech simply because they are delivered in a public setting or to a public audience.

Hillsdale High School must comply with the law by allowing private student religious expression during graduation, the attorneys concluded. By doing so, it will teach students that the government should treat religion neutrally.

Citing the Supreme Courts decision in Good News Club v. Milford Central School, Berry and Russell told Goldsmith that any perceived danger in students seeing their classmates engaging in religious expression, including prayer, is no greater than the danger in students seeing religion banned from public view.

They warned her that you are violating federal law which permits private religious speech at school events and requested that she allow Turner to express her private religious beliefs at the graduation ceremony.

The attorneys also included screenshots of emails between Turner and Goldsmith indicating that the principal had already asked the valedictorian to make changes to her speech before she asked her to scrub its religious aspects. Turner expressed concern that she would not be able to deliver a genuine speech based on the stipulations laid out.

I dont agree that we should avoid the topic of tragedy and death because that is a part of everyones future, Turner wrote. I understand what you are saying but for me, this is a time for my peers and I to evaluate our lives and to choose how we want to live since were not promised tomorrow and I dont want to write a speech that wont be meaningful just to check off the box. I believe it is celebratory to call people to a life of purpose and meaning and a call to action to live a life as well.

Turner stressed that "my personal future relies on my faith and I also want the freedom to be able to address that in my speech if the opportunity arises. Goldsmith reportedly responded in a follow-up email, arguing that I think one can call for a life of purpose without using the words death and tragedy.

While there is a degree of freedom to the content of your speech, there are also considerations of what the content and message should be at a commencement celebration and its appropriateness for the audience, she continued. When crafting a speech it is important to consider purpose and audience. Your speech has a good thesis, its the connotations of the word that you can avoid.

Turner forwarded that email chain to her pastor, who then sent it to Russell. The demand letter was filed two days later.

In a subsequent chat, also attached to First Libertys demand letter, Goldsmith asked Turner, what did you decide about presenting the speech? Turner informed Goldsmith that she was planning on giving it, to which the principal replied, You have added more content of a religious and focus on death nature so this was not clear to me.

On Thursday, Russell praised the school's decision to "ensure that religious students can freely exercise their right to express their faith in a graduation speech."

Elizabeth is thrilled that shell be able to celebrate her graduation without being censored," Russell said. "We hope that future graduates will be free from religious censorship.
Social media witnessing in a polarized society

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In an increasingly polarized society, Bishop T.D. Jakes has encouraged Christians to use discretion when posting on social media, stressing the power of content that sheds light rather than generates heat.

When you're broaching a sensitive subject, a controversial subject, a subject where you have an opinion ... but may not have necessarily done your research on, I think it's better to start a conversation with a trusted friend and almost use him as a focus group to make sure that you're looking at it holistically, and not just narrowly through the lens of your own point of view, so that when you make a statement, it sheds light rather than generates heat, Jakes, founder of The Potter's House, told The Christian Post on Thursday when asked about best practices when it comes to posting on social media.

Read more at: https://www.christianpost.com/books/td-jakes-christians-should-use-social-media-to-shed-light.html
Aerial photo taken on May 9, 2021 shows the Qingliang Mountain in Yan'an City, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. Yan'an in northwest China's Shaanxi Province hosted the then headquarters of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and was the center of the Communist revolution from 1935 to 1948. The city is home to 445 former sites of the CPC's early revolutionary activities and boasts 30 revolution-themed museums. The city on the Loess Plateau has witnessed locals bid farewell to poverty. It has been green-coated thanks to its greening efforts. Bridging past and present, a new cityscape in the former revolutionary base is taking shape. (Xinhua/Liu Xiao)
Ohio megachurch will donate $2.5M over next 25 weeks

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An Ohio megachurch among several churches nationwide to receive millions of dollars last year under the federal governments Paycheck Protection Program has announced it will give away $2.5 million over the next 25 weeks.

To celebrate its 25th anniversary, Crossroads Church will donate $2.5 million to local, national and international nonprofits over the next five-plus months, according to The Cincinnati Enquirer.

"God has blessed Crossroads over the past 25 years and we don't take that lightly, so we want to use what we've been given to bring positive change in the communities we serve," the churchs founder and Senior Pastor Brian Tome said in a statement. "That means sharing our resources with partners who are doing good work. Where God is moving, we want to be investing."

City Gospel Mission, a Cincinnati organization that helps fight homelessness, will be gifted $100,000 to become the first of 40 organizations in the area to receive a donation, WKRC reported.

"There will be some tears. I can tell you that right now. I think there'll be a lot of joy and hope, hope to our staff," David Pinson of City Gospel Mission told the news outlet. "Hope is getting it to those people, the hurting people that we work with because it will get around, and people will know that, and that might even attract people to us as well."

The multi-campus church, which had an estimated weekly attendance of over 35,000 in 2018, was started in Cincinnati in 1995. It now has 10 locations throughout Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton and Lexington.

Were so thankful to the city, were so grateful for all the nonprofits that are in the city so as a result of our 25th anniversary we are going to put a little dot in between 2 and 5, giving 2.5 million dollars in the next 25 weeks, Tome said in his statement.

The funds for the community giveback are expected to come from the churchs operational budget.

Gods made a difference in us, and we want to make a difference in our communities. Thats just what we want to do," Tome said. City Gospel Mission will receive $100,000, and then we are going to be unveiling what organizations we are going to bless over the next 25 weeks."

Tome, who expects to help organizations in India and Haiti, told WLWT5 his goal for the next 25 years is to enjoy life and serve God diligently and make aggressive moves as a church to bless our city."

When his church was awarded $3.6 million in forgivable PPP loans last year, Tome said he initially didnt realize churches could be helped that way.

We were going, 'wait a minute, really?' Churches are generally left out of those kind of programs, he told WCPO.

When you take a look at the value churches offer the social sector, it is enormous, Tome noted earlier this year. I think that the government at least this time around recognized that in this emotional crisis, financial crisis, spiritual  its a crisis of every kind of category possible  churches provide a meaningful service to the communities.
SBC presidential hopeful Mike Stone wants denomination to fully reject critical race theory

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Two years after the Southern Baptist Convention acknowledged in Resolution 9 that critical race theory can be a useful analytical tool to explain how race has and continues to function in society, Mike Stone, pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Blackshear, Georgia, is proposing a new resolution asking the denomination to condemn the theory.

Stone, who is vying to become the next president of the worlds largest Baptist denomination at its annual meeting next month in Nashville, Tennessee, promoted his proposal on Twitter last Wednesday.

The pastor said the proposed resolution seeks to provide leadership with clarity, compassion, and conviction in addressing critical race theory and intersectionality.

He explained that the proposal has more than 50 supporters. They include Owen Strachan, an associate professor of Christian theology and director of the Center for Public Theology at the Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; and Carol Swain, a retired professor of political science and law at Vanderbilt University.

The inclusion of Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality, since the 2019 Annual Meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) in Birmingham, Ala., has brought confusion and division among its churches by describing Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality as analytical tools that are helpful to explain how racism functions in society and how to evaluate human experiences, they argue in the proposal.

Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality are ideologies rooted in Neo-Marxist and postmodern worldviews, by which our civilization is being deconstructed around our families, communities, and nations, which make them incompatible with Scripture as they are characterized by worldly philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ (Col 2:8)."

The proposed resolution seeks to affirm the controversial portion of the Nov. 20, 2020, statement from the Council of Seminary Presidents that states affirmation of Critical Race Theory, Intersectionality and any version of Critical Theory is incompatible with the Baptist Faith & Message."

Some progressive critics dismissed the CSP statement as critics as anti-intellectual.

We deny that any analytical tools can aid in evaluating a variety of human experiences if those analytical tools are themselves rooted in worldviews incompatible with the Word of God, Stone's resolution continues. We reaffirm our agreement with historic, biblically faithful Southern Baptist condemnations of racism in any and all forms and our agreement with The Baptist Faith and Message which states that Christ died for man; therefore, every person of every race possesses full dignity and is worthy of respect and Christian love.

The proposal reiterates the absolute conviction of supporters that a proper interpretation of the Holy Scriptures  apart from any worldly ideology, any personal identity trait, or any lived experience  is sufficient to serve as the sole standard by which our faith and practice are to be measured.

Any member of a cooperating Southern Baptist church can propose a resolution for adoption by the SBC.

However, the SBC Committee on Resolutions may decline to recommend properly submitted resolutions to the convention for adoption.

Prominent Southern Baptist Pastor Dwight McKissic, who founded and currently leads Cornerstone Baptist Church in Arlington, Texas, warned earlier this year that if Resolution 9 is rescinded, he would leave the SBC.

His threat came after he quit the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention after leaders adopted a strongly worded, anti-CRT policy that denounces all aspects of critical race theory.

McKissic's declaration also came amid an exodus of prominent black Southern Baptist pastors, such as Ralph West and Charlie Dates, over the Council of Seminary Presidents renouncing critical race theory and intersectionality.

Last Wednesday, McKissic wrote on Twitter that the SBC's response to Stones proposal would be a defining moment.

The decision made about this resolution will be a defining moment," he tweeted. "Interesting that there is not one African American lead or senior pastor on this list of signatories. This may be the most racially divisive resolution ever proposed in the SBC. Approval makes decision mkg easy."

Despite McKissic's claim, there are black signatories to the resolution as of Tuesday, including Swain and former Atlanta Fire Chief Kelvin Cochran.

Critical race theory, which has been a lightning rod for debate and division in evangelical circles in recent years, is defined as an ideological framework that some legal scholars argue interrogates the relationship between race, law and power.

Last September, former President Donald Trump issued an executive order in which he classified critical race theory and related concepts like white privilege as offensive and anti-American race and sex stereotyping and scapegoating." He previously directed federal agencies to stop teaching government workers about the concept in diversity training sessions.

In January, the Labor Department suspended enforcement of Trumps order after a federal judge blocked it.
UK Baptist group warns against occultism amid rise in grief-stricken seeking to contact the dead

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A Baptist group in the U.K. is warning against occult spirituality following the rise in people trying to communicate with the dead, particularly those grieving the loss of loved ones who died from COVID-19.

The Baptist Deliverance Study Group of the Baptist Union in Great Britain, which oversees the deliverance ministry for the organization, has raised concerns about the increasing number of people seeking to contact their dead relatives through the use of mediums.

The Rev. Jayne Irlam, the group's project lead for Education, Research and Training, said it's "completely understandable that those desperate to say goodbye to their loved ones would be attracted by a spiritual philosophy which offers communication with the dead."

But she cautioned: "Communication with the dead in this way is specifically forbidden in the Bible by a loving God who wishes to keep people safe from bondage to preternatural or demonic powers. ... Becoming involved in activities such as Spiritualism can open up a doorway to great spiritual oppression which requires a Christian rite to set that person free."

Irlam said the Baptist group has been approached by people seeking to be "set free" from spiritualism after enduring "horrific consequences."

During an interview with Premier Christian News, Irlan noted that due to the lockdowns spurred by COVID-19, many families weren't able to see their loved ones before they died nor have the funerals they wanted.

"The fact that people have often not been able to say goodbye properly  there's often been very limited contact at the end with loved ones, and even limited numbers in funeral services. And therefore, it stores a lot of unmet psychological needs in people," she said.



Irlam, who's also a co-minister of the Church Without Walls in Manchester, added: "We need to think carefully as the church about how we meet that, and how Christ wants to meet that in order to persuade people that they don't need to turn to these practices, which invariably leads to bondage and suffering in the end."

The group is urging people to stay away from spiritual practices aimed at contacting the dead because it may "open up a doorway to great spiritual oppression which requires a Christian rite to set that person free."

Irlam told the outlet that many people who reached out to them for help after they became entangled in the occult, including satanism, said they felt they belonged more in those communities than they did from the established Church.

"I think that's a real challenge toward the Christian Church, to think very carefully about why people perceive that. It is very sad that somebody might actually feel but they get a greater sense of purpose and belonging, and even support from a group dedicated to something like witchcraft than they do from the Christian Church," Irlam said.

"My advice to churches would be to look out for people who are searching and may wander into the church, who have also been looking around at over spiritual options. And make sure that your doctrine is clear that you cannot combine following Christ with the odd visit to the spiritualist church."

Her words come amid a surge in interest in spiritualism.

In January, the U.K. Times reported that applications for membership in the Spiritualists National Union increased by 325% during the first month of the lockdowns. A similar rise in interest in spiritualism occurred after World War II, and the outbreak of the Spanish flu, approximately 100 years ago.

In their normal daily routine people are extremely busy and dont have the time to ask the question: what happens when we die? All of a sudden people found themselves with a lot of time on their hands and were being bombarded with death rates on the news. It is extremely worrying and people are experiencing stresses that we probably havent experienced since the Second World War, Steven Upton of the Spiritualists National Union, told the U.K. Times.



The Spiritualists National Union reportedly oversees a network of approximately 300 churches across the U.K., where spiritualists channel the dead during services.
















Televangelist Jim Bakker blames his 1989 imprisonment for fraud on cancel culture

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Televangelist Jim Bakker isnt happy with cancel culture and believes his imprisonment for fraud in 1989 aided by a group of preachers but mostly the media at the height of his ministry's success was an early example of cancel culture.

They canceled me, Bakker declared on The Jim Bakker Show last Friday.

Bakker was indicted in 1988 on eight counts of mail fraud, 15 counts of wire fraud and one count of conspiracy. According to The New York Times, government prosecutors argued that Bakker bilked followers of his PTL Ministry out of $158 million by offering promises of lifetime vacations he could not provide.

He was also accused of diverting about $3.7 million to support a lavish lifestyle, including an air-conditioned dog house and a fleet of Mercedes-Benzes and Rolls-Royces.

He was found guilty on all 24 counts on Oct. 5, 1989, and sentenced to 45 years in prison. He was ordered to pay a $500,000 fine. Bakker later filed an appeal. In 1991, an appellate court upheld his conviction. But he was granted a sentence-reduction hearing, during which his sentence was reduced to eight years. He served almost five years before he received parole in 1994.

But Bakker argues that when he looks back at what happened, he was really canceled by preachers who wanted to take over his ministry and the media.

It was a group of preachers earlier that worked with them but mainly it was the media," he said. "And the media got a Pulitzer Prize for putting me in prison. Thats what they do. They reward the enemies of the Gospel. ... We had the largest ministry of its type in the world  Heritage USA. Millions of people came there, and it was millions being saved around the world. And they literally took it away, put it into bankruptcy. [They] said they were going to care for it. It was all lies. It was a takeover plan. And it was done in front of the world. And that is what cancel culture is."

He further argued that "one of the biggest agencies of the federal government produced video from my show video and edited it and put me in prison."

"They testified that it was that video that made people believe, Well, something must be wrong,'" he contends. "They made me say things I didnt say. They just put pieces together, thousands of pieces of my show. And so, when I went to trial for the last trial  after I got out of a prison, I was put on trial again  and in that, the lawyers got all that tape that the government had edited  the government did it!

Just like now, this is cancel culture  and they took it apart and put it back the way it was on the show. And the lies  they made me tell lies that werent there. When the courts heard this, they saw the first video that the government had edited and then they saw the one from the original. They voted unanimously that I wasnt guilty.

As The Charlotte Observer points out in a 2018 article about how Bakker's online biography stated that his case was "overturned," that his website "combines its narrative of his criminal case with a later civil class action suit."

"Those PTL partners, numbering close to 160,000, later won a $129.7 million civil suit against Bakker, but found he had no money. So they filed a class action suit to try to collect insurance money to cover their losses," the report states. "They lost that bid when a federal jury concluded in 1996 that the partnerships were not securities or investments. The people who paid for those 'lifetime partnership' vacation plans will never get their money back."

A recent study of cancel culture by the Pew Research Center shows that while some people see the controversial term as a way to hold people accountable for their actions, many others, particularly conservative Republicans, see it as a form of censorship.

Conservative Republicans who had heard of the term were more likely than other partisan and ideological groups to see cancel culture as a form of censorship, Pew noted.

About a quarter of conservative Republicans familiar with the term described it as censorship, compared with 15% of moderate or liberal Republicans and roughly one-in-ten or fewer Democrats, regardless of ideology.
Leftist ideology permeating Church 'extremely dangerous' to Body of Christ, pastor warns

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Over the last decade, Lucas Miles began noticing what he believes is a really damaging, antithetical to the Gospel, and certainly heretical issue metastasizing across the Western Church.

Ive seen what The New York Times has called this Ascendant Liberal Christianity invade churches. And of course, they present Liberal Christianity or Progressive Christianity in a positive light, but I think it's actually extremely dangerous to the Body of Christ, Miles, a pastor, author and filmmaker told The Christian Post.

But over the last 36 months, Miles said he began seeing this liberal ideology invade churches at an unprecedented rate, at first through the mouths of well-known professing Christian politicians, pastors and teachers, but eventually in local church leaders too.

I would hear people start talking about Christianity using progressive language, and the Jesus they presented was more of a great social organizer than the Savior of the world, he said.

I live in a red state and blue county, and there are probably four or five churches right around me that are flying a Marxist Black Lives Matter flag or Christian socialism symbol or a rainbow flag, and they're flying those higher than the cross. I think it says a lot about where the churches in America are right now.

Like many beliefs, the Christian Left is a spectrum, Miles said, as not everybody who has progressive ideas are true leftists or Marxists. Some, like Georgia Senator Raphael Warnock and Democratic politician Pete Buttigieg, are on the far left and have created this hybrid version of Christianity and Marxism, he explained.

But more subtly, within the Christian world, people like Bible teacher Beth Moore and journalist Jonathan Merritt have kept one foot in biblical orthodoxy and one foot in progressive ideology.

We're seeing things like critical race theory and liberation theology very strongly pushed, and it's becoming more and more concerning, he said. The Gospel is not something that's legalistic, and it's important that we not fall into fundamentalism, either. But if we begin to downgrade Scripture to something other than the Word of God, Christianity begins to erode.

Feeling an urgency to help Christians discern biblical truth from dangerous ideology, Miles penned his latest book,The Christian Left: How Liberal Thought Has Hijacked the Church. In it, he examines church history, world politics, and pop culture to expose the agenda of the Christian Left.

The Christian Left, he said, is really good at hijacking terminology in order to ooze their way into being recognized as "Christian." One way they do this, he said, is by increasingly pushing for a Christian Universalism that says all paths lead to Christ.



True leftists, he said, know that they cannot win elections unless they divide the church and win some of the religious vote.

The Democratic Party in years past was quite content to be referred to as the godless party and even made efforts to take the word God out of their party platform. Now we're seeing sort of this doubling down on faith by the left, and it's really a partnership with liberal Christian universities, certain mainstream media outlets, and even certain mainstream faith outlets, he contended.

One reason progressive ideology has so easily permeated churches across the West is because of growing biblical illiteracy, Miles said. According to the State of the Bible 2020 report, the proportion of Americans who read the Bible daily also fell to fewer than one in 10 (9%), the lowest number on record during the 10 years of the State of the Bible research study. Another recent study found that only 6% of Americans have a "biblical worldview."

We really need to look at, what are these core beliefs of Christianity that we can find unity in, and then what are these secondary or tertiary issues or concerns that we can have some degree of difference? he said. What do they say about gender and sexuality? What do they believe about the Bible and about individuals?

One thing that we do not have the liberty to have a degree of difference on is the authority of Scripture, because the moment that the authority of Scripture is challenged, all the other aspects of our faith rooted in it are challenged as well. The moment we adopt and begin to accept forms of Christianity that downplay the authority of Scripture, it gives way to embracing things that aren't Christian, but yet we're calling Christian.

Already, The Christian Left is the No. 1 bestseller in three different categories on Amazon, indicating that more and more Christians are concerned by the number of pastors embracing LGBT and transgenderism, downplaying pro-life issues, and presenting an acceptable Christianity from the pulpit.

Ive had so many people who said they are tired of going to church and feeling like its a commercial for the Democratic Party or having critical race theory crammed down their throats, he said. Theres a huge concern for the future of the Church in America.

Through his book, Miles said he hopes to equip and empower the Church to stand firm on biblical truth and elevate God's truth, justice, and wisdom over leftist ideology. Until the Church does so, he said, there will not be unity among the Body of Christ.

We cannot call things that are not Christian or rooted in the teachings of Christ or the unity of Christ Christian just because we want to, he stressed. Were not even worshipping the same Christ. We can both call this person Jesus, but the identity is two very, very different people. Its important that we recognize that we cannot have real Christian unity and Christian fellowship with people that do not actually worship Christ the way that we know Him in Scripture.

He added: I want to see people really return to the Gospel of God's grace, but also understand that it is not a choose your own adventure novel where you pick your own truth. Scripture does not give us that opportunity. I believe that true love is manifested in speaking truth towards each other, and that is something the Christian Left is missing.

The Christian Left: How Liberal Thought Has Hijacked the Church is available now.
David Daleiden says NIH-funded research grafted illegally aborted babies' scalps onto lab mice Pro-life activist urges Congress to investigate experiments on babies born alive

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A pro-life activist is calling for Dr. Anthony Fauci to testify before the U.S. Congress about his knowledge of federal funding awarded to a Pennsylvania university conducting experiments on human fetal tissue, including one experiment where illegally aborted babies' scalps were grafted onto lab rats.

David Daleiden, the founder of the pro-life activist group Center for Medical Progress, said on Fox News last Thursday that the director of the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases should testify about the nearly $500,000 grant his agency awarded to the University of Pittsburgh to conduct research using aborted babies scalps.

Daleiden wants Congress to ask Fauci, the most prominent figure overseeing the U.S. coronavirus response, if he knew of potentially illegal actions taken by the institution.

.@TuckerCarlson asks @daviddaleiden about the @PittTweet / @NIAIDFunding study that grafted the scalps of late-term unborn babies onto rats.



"Has Fauci accounted for this?"



"No, and Dr. Anthony Fauci owns every bit of this study." pic.twitter.com/AOO23HJEZi  Edie Heipel (@ediemheipel) May 21, 2021

At the University of Pittsburgh, they were doing a study where they were taking the scalps of 5-month-old aborted babies, and they were grafting them onto lab rats and lab mice to see how much longer they could keep them growing for, Daleiden explained. You can actually see the photographs in the published study of little baby scalps grafted onto the backs of lab rats growing little baby hairs.

According to Daleiden, This study was funded by ... multiple grants from the NIAID office, which is run by Dr. Anthony Fauci.

He contended that Fauci owns every bit of this study."

As the head of the NIAID office, the buck stops with him in terms of how those grants are spent  whether theyre being monitored and made sure that theyre ethically and legally and just compliant as far as good stewardship of taxpayer money," Daleiden said.

In addition to expressing disgust that experiments on aborted fetal body parts received taxpayer funding, Daleiden suggested that the experiments themselves may have broken the law.

The fact that they were using scalps from 5-month-old aborted babies, that means that the heads of those children probably needed to be intact in order to get the scalps, which is an indication that those are either partial-birth abortion or even infants delivered alive and whole, he said.

Federal law bans dilation and extraction abortions, also known as partial-birth abortions. The Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act signed into law in 2003 prohibits partial-birth abortions. The law was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2007.

While Fox News did not show the pictures of the experiment on air, a video explaining the University of Pittsburghs experimentation with aborted babies on the CMP website does include graphic photos.

As the narrator explained, NIAID has given several additional grants to scientists and programs at the University of Pittsburgh that conduct fetal tissue research.

According to CMP, the experimentation on aborted babies scalps was described as full-thickness human fetal skin cut from the heads and backs of aborted babies then processed via removal of excess fat underneath the babies skin before stitching it onto the rats."

"Human skin tissues were obtained from the scalp and dorsum of donors and were used in developing human skin engraftments with and without hair in the mouse model, respectively," the published report states. "Full-thickness human fetal skin was processed via removal of excess fat tissues attached to the subcutaneous layer of the skin, then engrafted over the rib cage, where the mouse skin was previously excised."

According to CMP, another scientist at the university developed a protocol for harvesting the freshest, most pristine livers from 5-month-old aborted babies in order to isolate massive numbers of stem cells for experimental transplantation into adults.

The Pittsburgh scientist who developed the protocol received nearly $3 million from the NIH, the parent agency of NIAID, CMP reports.

The NIH has also awarded the University of Pittsburgh a $1.4 million multi-year grant that makes the university a distribution hub for aborted fetal kidneys and other fetal body parts for NIH-funded projects across the country," the activist group alleged.

According to the Center for Medical Progress, the fetal experimentation at the University of Pittsburgh goes back decades to the 1950s, when a doctor obtained live fetuses from abortions at Pitts hospital and tested their reflexes until they died.

When I was undercover, Planned Parenthood abortion providers told me that they were the ones who were supplying the aborted baby body parts for experiments at the University of Pittsburgh," Daleiden said in his Fox News interview.

While the university told the media that there is no procurement relationship for fetal tissue with Planned Parenthood, archive footage of Daleidens undercover exchange with Planned Parenthood officials shows a doctor at Planned Parenthood Western Pennsylvania acknowledging that theres a tissue bank  at Pitt that we offer patients to donate to.

Additionally, the University of Pittsburgh has served as a location for Planned Parenthoods Ryan Residency, which provides training for many doctors who go on to work for the nations largest abortion provider.

Daleiden remains optimistic that more details about the research at the University of Pittsburgh will become public and that people will be held accountable.

I think that everyday Americans  are justifiably disturbed and upset and sad and want accountability and want enforcement  from their elected representatives, from government officials on these issues," he stressed.

Were talking about a set of government policies with fetal experimentation and experiments on aborted children that basically say that our children are worth more dead than alive, he added. It speaks to who we are as a people and who we are  as Americans.

In a statement to The College Fix, University of Pittsburgh spokesperson Keith Joseph denied any allegations of wrongdoing.

The University does not obtain fetal tissue from Planned Parenthood, does not use any of its state appropriation to fund fetal tissue research and follows all laws and regulations governing fetal tissue research, he asserted.

Maintaining that the video footage of Planned Parenthood officials discussing the tissue bank at the University of Pittsburgh was false, Joseph argued that David Daleiden has been repeatedly discredited, ordered to pay millions of dollars after being found liable for breaking multiple state and federal laws, and is now facing felony charges in criminal court.

The Christian Post reached out to the University of Pittsburgh to respond to Daleiden's claim that NIH funds were used for the research to graft fetal skin on lab mice. A response was not received by press time.
Over 60 bishops call for delay on debate over communion for pro-choice politicians

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More than 60 Roman Catholic bishops have written a letter to the chair of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, urging him to delay the debate about whether pro-abortion Catholic politicians should receive communion.

The letter, obtained by the Catholic website The Pillar, was sent to Jose Gomez, the archbishop of Los Angeles and chair of the USCCB, earlier this month. Notable signatories include Cardinal Wilton Gregory of the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., Cardinal Sean OMalley of the Archdiocese of Boston, and Cardinal Blase Cupich of the Archdiocese of Chicago. According to the publication, the letter was sent on letterhead from the Archdiocese of Washington.

The roughly 60 signatories constitute a small share of the more than 400 bishops, auxiliary bishops, bishops emeritus and eparchs of Eastern Catholic Churches that make up the USCCB. The letter comes as the USCCB is scheduled to meet for a virtual general assembly next month, where the body is expected to vote on a draft document that would recommend that pro-abortion Catholic politicians not receive communion.

On March 30, Gomez indicated that the body of U.S. bishops planned to vote on the draft document in a letter to Cardinal Luis Ladaria, a high-ranking Vatican official who serves as the prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Ladaria responded to Gomez in a May 7 letter, stressing the need for the bishops to reach a consensus about a national policy on communion for pro-abortion Catholic politicians before its implementation.

The bishops cited Ladarias argument in their letter, maintaining that the high standard of consensus among ourselves and of maintaining unity with the Holy See and the Universal Church as set forth by Cardinal Ladaria is far from being achieved in the present moment. They also cited a desire to hold off on debating a new policy until the entire conference can meet in person.

Having now received the May 7, 2021 letter from His Eminence Luis F. Cardinal Ladaria, SJ, Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, we respectfully urge that all Conference wide discussion and committee work on the topic of Eucharistic worthiness and other issues raised by the Holy See be postponed until the full body of bishops is able to meet in person, the bishops wrote.

They suggested that the bishops gather in person regionally or by province to discuss the Cardinal Ladaria letter before the September Administrative Committee Meeting and before any other conference or committee work continues on this matter. The general assembly is scheduled to take place from June 16-18.

The Washington Post reported that watchers of the conference of bishops say they expect a yes vote. As explained on the USCCB website, decisions normally require a two-thirds majority vote of those bishops present and voting in order to take effect.

The renewed interest in this debate is a result of President Joe Biden, a practicing Catholic, engaging in abortion advocacy despite the fact that it directly contradicts the teachings of his faith. 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.

As then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, who would later become Pope Benedict XVI, noted in a 2004 letter to then-Cardinal Theodore McCarrick and then-Bishop Wilton Gregory, the Church teaches that abortion or euthanasia is a grave sin. Ratzinger quoted from the Encyclical Letter Evangelium vitae, which states: In the case of an intrinsically unjust law, such as a law permitting abortion or euthanasia, it is therefore never licit to obey it or to take part in a propoganda campaign in favour of such a law or vote for it.'

Ratzinger instructed priests to meet with Catholic politicians consistently campaigning and voting for permissive abortion and euthanasia laws and inform them of the Churchs teachings and that they will be denied communion if they continue to violate Church teachings by supporting such laws.

If these precautionary measures have not had their effect or in which they were not possible, and the person in question, with obstinate persistence, still presents himself to receive the Holy Eucharist, the minister of Holy Communion must refuse to distribute it, he added.

The Associated Press reported that even if the draft document is approved, it would still leave decisions on withholding Communion up to local bishops, meaning the debate about whether to withhold communion from pro-abortion Catholic politicians will continue regardless of how the USCCB votes on the draft document.

Even before signing onto the letter expressing a desire to postpone the discussion about Eucharistic worthiness, Gregory indicated that he does not believe that Bidens abortion advocacy should disqualify him from receiving communion. San Francisco Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone, who oversees territory that includes the church attended by pro-abortion Catholic Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., has come down on the other side of the debate.
Paula Whites ex-husband says 'slanderous' Facebook post accusing her of affairs made by hacker

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A post on the Facebook account of Without Walls International Church leader Randy White accusing his televangelist ex-wife, Paula White-Cain, of having multiple affairs with married men during their marriage was an unfortunate and slanderous post resulting from a hack, his church said.

Last night, the Facebook account of Bishop Randy A White, of Without Walls International Church, was hacked. As a result, a post of a very unfortunate nature was posted under his account. We at WWIC are aware of these events, as well as other recent attacks active in nature to personally destroy our pastor, and our church, the church noted in a statement Wednesday.

We are currently working not only to make sure this does not happen again, but to identify the person responsible for these slanderous posts. WWIC is in a season of growth, and there are people that are unhappy about what God is doing. However, this being said, years of ministry has taught us that when the enemy attacks this much, there is a blessing on the way, the statement continued.

The post attacking former President Donald Trumps spiritual adviser has already been shared on the social platform at least 4,500 times.

For 10 years I have watched ppl listen to her lies, this was the night she begged me to tell the ppl we were getting a divorce ... I said no! But her mind was made up. She sent 10 men to my house and told me how wrong I was for divorcing her..... I said men you are talking to the wrong person. I wanted to stay married. But when she had at least 5 multiple affairs to all married men, she needed another way out. I can tell you now that 80% person of what she has said, preached and wrote about isnt even close to the truth!!! I know the whole truth because I had to live it..... want more??? let me know #betrayal #Paulawhitelies, the post on Randy Whites hacked Facebook account stated.

The Christian Post reached out to the ministries of Paula White and her ex-husband Thursday morning but they did not immediately respond. The former couple announced their decision to divorce in the summer of 2007 after nearly 18 years of marriage.

"It's the most difficult decision I've ever had to make in my entire life," Randy White told the congregation at Without Walls International in Tampa, Florida, which he and his then-wife co-founded.

In its statement Wednesday, Without Walls International Church acknowledged Paula Whites contribution to the ministry and said she and her ex-husband currently enjoy a good relationship.

First let us say, we at WWIC stand by our Bishop Randy White. Second we want to say, that Paula White was a vital part to the success of our church, and she has moved on with her life, ministry, and so has Bishop Randy A White," the statement added. "We wish nothing but the best for her. Bishop Randy has a good relationship with Pastor Paula. They are both focused on building Gods Kingdom. Let us all move on from these distractions, and focus on the Work of the Lord."

The controversial post from Pastor Randy White's Facebook account remained live as of Thursday afternoon.
The Bible condemns polygamy, it doesnt endorse it: 9 Marks editor

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Despite its regular appearance in the Old Testament, polygamy is actually condemned in Scripture, according to Sam Emadi, author and senior editor at 9Marks, a church ministry resource organization.

In an essay published at the theology website Desiring God on Tuesday titled, Why Did God Allow Polygamy?, Emadi wrote: Among Israels patriarchs and kings, polygamy and concubinage seem almost a matter of course. More than that, some Old Testament passages appear not only to describe these practices but to sanction them.

Christians need to understand how Scripture advances the normativity of monogamy and how that squares with the many polygamous saints found in the pages of the Old Testament.

Emadi wrote that when the Bible speaks of the polygamous relationships of various Old Testament figures, it is simply describing the relationships and not endorsing them.

Recording an action  even an action of an otherwise upstanding hero of the biblical narrative  is not in itself a commendation of that action, he wrote.

Few characters in Scripture emerge as heroically as the apostles, but no one suggests the Gospel writers want us to imitate Peters denial of Jesus.

Emadi pointed to Genesis 2:24 (Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh) as an example of marriage being described as monogamous, and cited other scripture passages that condemned the inclusion of other romantic partners.

Jesus, as we have seen, affirms the goodness of Gods design for monogamy in Mark 10. Similarly, the churchs elders, whose lives should serve as examples of faithfulness for all Christians (1 Peter 5:3), must be one-woman men (1 Timothy 3:2), Emadi added.

The reason Scripture records so many instances of polygamy and concubinage is not to endorse these actions, but to condemn them and show just how destructive such sexual perversity proved to be.

Emadi noted examples of rivalry and brokenness within the polygamous relationships described in detail in the Old Testament as evidence that the Bible was warning against the practice.

Whereas explicit commands in Scripture teach the people of God that polygamy is wrong, the stories show it to be ugly  a hideous perversion of one of Gods greatest gifts, he concluded.

Emadi joins others, among them Old Testament professor Peter Gentry of Phoenix Seminary, in explaining that the Old Testament does not endorse the practice of polygamy.

When you read the Bible, the Bible is not promoting polygamy. It's showing us that only royal figures had many wives, said Gentry in a 2019 video for The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary's YouTube channel.

It's also showing us that this is not ideal, that this caused all kinds of difficulty and hardship and trouble and the fighting among the wives. And it's not a satisfactory relationship.

Kenneth Reid, a writer for the ministry LightWorkers, penned a column posted by The Christian Post in 2020 likewise addressing polygamy, telling readers that they should not confuse Gods permissive will with Gods perfect will.

Its important to remember that the examples of polygamy we read in Scripture are biblical narrative. In biblical narrative, the authors rarely offer commentary on what they write. Instead, they tell the story as it happened, wrote Reid.

The Bible lays out a clear standard for marriage in Genesis, chapter two. Then in subsequent passages, it tells stories of people who fell short of those standards. Just because God didnt strike them down doesnt mean He condoned their actions 
54% of Republicans think violent left-wing activists were behind Jan. 6 Capitol riot: poll

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A slight majority of Republicans believe the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol was led by violent left-wing activists seeking to vilify former President Donald Trump, according to a new poll.

Ipsos/Reuters released the findings of a poll last Friday that asked respondents their views on issues including the 2020 election, the Jan. 6 Capitol Hill protests, and voting laws.

According to the poll, 54% of Republican respondents said they either Strongly agree or somewhat agree that the protest at the Capitol was led by violent left-wing protestors trying to make Trump look bad.

Another 17% of Republican respondents said they strongly disagreed, 13% said they somewhat disagreed, and 16% responded that they did not know.

By contrast, 65% of Democrat respondents said they strongly disagree with the claim, 10% said they somewhat disagree and 16% said they either somewhat or strongly agreed.

Additionally, 46% of Republican respondents strongly disagreed when asked if they believed Trump was at least partly to blame for starting the deadly Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol.

By contrast, 73% of Democrat respondents and 43% of independent respondents answered that they strongly agree with the claim that Trump was at least partly to blame.

The lone person killed by lethal force at the Capitol was Ashli Babbit, an unarmed U.S. Air Force veteran who attempted to climb through a smashed door pane into the House chamber. She was shot in the neck by a plainclothes officer from inside the chamber.

Three others who reportedly died at the Capitol that day include a woman who sustained injuries after being trampled on by the crowd, an individual who suffered a heart attack, and another individual who had a stroke.

While the media had claimed for months that Capitol Police officer Brian Sicknick had died as a result of injuries he suffered when responding to the riot, specifically alleging that he was hit in the head by a fire extinguisher  which was also cited by Democrats at former President Trump's second impeachment  reports now say medical examiners "did not find signs that the officer sustained any blunt force trauma." Since Sicknick responded to the riot where he was sprayed by an irritant, possibly bear spray, it's speculated that that might've contributed to his death, along with any preexisting condition.

The Ipsos/Reuters poll was conducted May 1719, using an online sample of 2,007 adults that included 909 Democrats, 754 Republicans, and 196 Independents.

According to Ipsos/Reuters, the poll has a credibility interval of plus or minus 2.5 percentage points for all respondents.

Statistical margins of error are not applicable to online non-probability polls, they explained. The precision of Ipsos online polls is measured using a credibility interval.

The poll also has a credibility interval of plus or minus 3.7 percentage points for Democrats, plus or minus 4.1 percentage points for Republicans, and plus or minus 8.0 percentage points for independents.

The poll also found that 68% of Democrat respondents felt it was very important for the government to make it easier to vote, while 60% of Republican respondents felt it was very important for the government to protect elections from voter fraud.

On Jan. 6, as Congress met to certify the results of the 2020 presidential election, hundreds of Trump supporters violently stormed Capitol Hill, claiming the election was stolen.

Although both major parties denounced the riot, some conservatives claimed that Antifa and other far-left groups were behind the protest, possibly as a false flag operation.

Last week, the House of Representatives passed a bill by a vote of 252-175 to create an independent commission to further investigate the Jan. 6 riot, sending it to the Senate.

For his part, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell released a statement expressing opposition to the bill, arguing that pre-existing investigations on the riot were sufficient.

Federal law enforcement have made at least 445 arrests and counting relating to crimes committed that day. Hundreds of those people have been charged. Law enforcement investigations are ongoing and federal authorities say they expect to arrest at least 100 or so more, stated McConnell on May 19.

Its not at all clear what new facts or additional investigation yet another commission could lay on top of the existing efforts by law enforcement and Congress. The facts have come out and will continue to come out.
 Flash

It is foreseeable that in the future, China-Europe relations will embrace new opportunities and meanwhile confront various challenges, Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Wednesday.

In a phone conversation with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, Xi noted that the key is to firmly grasp the general direction of the comprehensive strategic partnership, properly manage differences and maintain the main tone of win-win cooperation.

Xi asked Sanchez to convey his cordial greetings to King Felipe VI. Noting that China and Spain are important strategic partners and important cooperation partners, Xi said the two sides should understand and support each other.

China stands ready to work with Spain to expand bilateral trade, actively promote cooperation projects in such areas as port logistics, smart cities and clean energy, strengthen third-party cooperation with Latin America and Africa, and deepen people-to-people and cultural exchanges, Xi said.

Xi stressed that despite the COVID-19 pandemic, China-Europe practical cooperation has shown tremendous potential. He expressed his hope that the Spanish government will continue to play a constructive role in promoting the steady and long-term development of China-Europe relations.

Noting that this year marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC), Xi said the CPC maintains friendly relations with more than 560 political parties in more than 160 countries.

China and Spain, he added, should strengthen exchanges between their political parties, deepen experience sharing on state governance, and contribute wisdom to both countries' pursuit of development paths in line with their respective national conditions as well as the improvement of global governance.

Sanchez conveyed King Felipe VI's sincere greetings to Xi, saying that since last year, Spain and China have gone through the test of COVID-19 and maintained sound development of their ties.

Bilateral economic and trade cooperation has achieved remarkable results, with a substantial increase in Spain's agricultural exports to China, Sanchez noted.

In the face of the severe challenges posed by COVID-19, it is all the more important for all countries to work together and uphold multilateralism, he said.

Spain is ready to work with China to maintain high-level exchanges, strengthen economic and trade cooperation, deepen cultural and people-to-people exchanges, he said, adding that his country welcomes Chinese enterprises' investments and cooperation.

Spain, he said, stands ready to continue to play a positive role in advancing the development of the strategic partnership between Europe and China.
Georgia can't ban supporters of Israel boycott from doing business with the state, judge rules

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A federal judge has ruled against a Georgia law requiring organizations and individuals who contract with public entities to declare that they will not support the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement against Israel.

Last Friday, U.S. District Court Judge Mark Cohen for the Northern District of Georgia issued a ruling in Abby Martin v. Steve Wrigley, et. al.

At issue is Georgia Southern University inviting pro-Palestinian journalist Abby Martin to speak at an event and requiring her, by law, agree to not voicing support of a boycott of Israel.

The law amended the Georgia Code to read that the state shall not enter into a contract with an individual or company if the contract is related to construction or the provision of services, supplies, or information technology unless the contract includes a written certification that such individual or company is not currently engaged in, and agrees for the duration of the contract not to engage in, a boycott of Israel.

Cohen, an Obama appointee, ruled that the state law imposes a condition on those who contract with the state of Georgia that implicates the contractors' First Amendment rights.

Defendants fail to explain how Martin's advocacy of a boycott of Israel has any bearing on Georgia's ability to advance foreign policy goals with Israel, wrote Cohen.

Cohen added that the law has a similar chilling effect because, as alleged in the First Amended Complaint, the statute effectively bans Martin from speaking at GSU and presumably other state university campuses.

Cohen did not fully side with Martin. The judge also concluded that certain individual defendants named in the lawsuit were not liable for their enforcement of the law.

Groups including the Partnership for Civil Justice Fund and the Georgia chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations celebrated the ruling.

Partnership for Civil Justice Fund counsel Mara Verheyden-Hilliard said in a statement Monday that the law was an outrageous effort by Georgia politicians to censor free speech rights.

This ruling comes at a crucial moment, when millions of Americans are questioning the use of U.S.-provided weapons in the onslaught against the Palestinian people and makes clear that the Constitution protects participation in the BDS movement, just as it protected the seminal civil rights and labor organizing boycotts that moved our society forward, stated Verheyden-Hilliard.

In 2016, Georgia became the sixth state in the U.S. to put restrictions on the extent to which organizations or individuals doing business with public entities could endorse a boycott of Israel.

State Sen. Judson Hill, who sponsored the legislation, said in a statement at the time that the measure showed that Georgia was proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with our friend and key trading partner Israel.

We are also pleased to join our neighboring states of South Carolina and Florida, along with other states all around America, in taking a stand against the anti-Semitism and discrimination of the BDS movement, continued Hill, as reported by The Tower.

In February, a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit ruled 2-1 that an Arkansas law prohibiting the state from contracting with or investing in businesses that support boycotting Israel was unconstitutional.

Supporting or promoting boycotts of Israel is constitutionally protected, reads the majority opinion. The Act prohibits the contractor from engaging in boycott activity outside the scope of the contractual relationship on its own time and dime  Such a restriction violates the First Amendment.

Eighth Circuit Judge Jonathan Kobes, a Trump appointee, authored a dissent. He argued that the "states have a broad mandate to enact legislation evincing the policy choices of their citizens."

"We may only hold states back in achieving those goals when they do so by unconstitutional means, dissented Kobes.

Nothing in the text of the operative provision itself suggests overreach (regulation of protected speech) by the Arkansas Legislature, and we should not impute an unconstitutional meaning to a statute that is benign on its face.
As Persecution Intensifies, We Must Pray for Boldness Rather than Safety

Dr. Michael Youssef confronts a difficult subject in his new book, Hope for This Present Crisis  the persecution of the modern-day church in America.

The post-Christian times in which we live are very much like the early Christian era in the Book of Acts. The dominant culture hated Christianity and tried to stamp it out, says Dr. Michael Youssef, author of the new book Hope for This Present Crisis: The Seven-Step Path to Restoring a World Gone Mad.

Over the last year and a half, restrictions placed on churches during the COVID-19 pandemic and rising censorship of faith-based organizations and leaders has made it all the more apparent that opposition toward the Christian faith is only increasing.

I think we are only seeing the beginning of the unfair treatment and persecution that lies ahead for the church, says Dr. Youssef. I believe we are heading into a time of severe testing where we are about to find out if we are made of the same stuff as the apostles. We are about to find out if we are willing to stand for Gods truth, whatever the cost.

The stakes are high for Christians today, and the temptation for many is to bury their heads in the sand. But believers in Jesus must be careful not to fall in this trap.

The message of the kingdom of God wont win any popularity contests. But it is the truth, and we need the courage to defend Gods truth boldly and without compromise, Dr. Youssef says. We are in a battle for the future of our children and grandchildren. We fight this battle with prayer and obedience to Gods Word. We dont believe in silencing our opponents. We believe in fighting bad ideas with better ideas. And the best ideas of all are found in Gods Word.

In Hope for This Present Crisis, Dr. Youssef encourages Christians to see these times of crisis as opportunities for revival. He also provides practical action steps for Christians to take to see spiritual renewal in America:

Christians should morally and spiritually purify themselves  turning from sin and turning to God for forgiveness and restoration. He has promised, If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land (2 Chron. 7:14). Christians should pray for our nation. Dr. Youssef urges believers to thank God for our country and ask Him to send revival. Pray for God to turn every church and home into a house of prayer; ask Him to purify His people so that the bride of Christ would be faithful and holy; and ask Him to set us apart as His followers, consecrated to His service and the preaching of His Gospel. Christians should persevere in sharing the Gospel with everyone around them. Whether people receive the good news with joy or reject it, never give up. Never stop witnessing.

[The apostles] could have prayed, Lord, stop these evil men! Silence them! Defeat them! Thwart their plans! But that was not the prayer of Peter and John, says Dr. Youssef. Instead, they prayed, Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness (Acts 4:29). They prayed for boldness! . . . The time is now upon us when we must pray for boldness rather than safety. We must obey God rather than human beings.

At a time when many are becoming discouraged by the spiritual climate in America, Dr. Youssef encourages his readers that In any contest of ideas, whether we have the First Amendment and Supreme Court on our side, or our rights have been stripped from us and the entire world has risen against us  Gods truth will prevail.

Hope for This Present Crisis is available now through Leading The Way and wherever books are sold. Get your copy today.

Dr. Michael Youssef is a pastor, bestselling author, and internationally respected Bible teacher. He was born in Egypt and lived in Lebanon and Australia before coming to the United States and fulfilling a childhood dream of becoming an American citizen. He holds degrees from Moore College in Sydney, Australia, and Fuller Theological Seminary in California, and has a Ph.D. in social anthropology from Emory University. Dr. Youssef is the host of the popular TV and radio broadcast Leading The Way with Dr. Michael Youssef, which airs more than 13,000 times every week, reaching audiences in nearly every major city in the world. He has authored more than 40 books, including his bestselling book Saving Christianity? and his new book Hope for This Present Crisis, published by FrontLine, an imprint of Charisma House.
Chaplain-led courtroom prayers ruled unconstitutional by federal judge

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A judge has issued a decree banning a Christian Texas judge from opening his courtroom proceedings in prayer, providing a legal victory to a prominent secular legal organization.

The Freedom from Religion Foundation, a Wisconsin-based nonprofit established to promote a strict separation of church and state, won a challenge to prohibit Judge Wayne Mack, a justice of the peace from an area north of Houston in Montgomery County, from opening his courtroom with non-mandatory chaplain-led prayer.

U.S. District Judge Kenneth Hoyt ruled on May 21 in favor of FRFF and anonymous local attorney John Roe, who has appeared in Macks courtroom at least 20 times and witnessed the chaplain-led prayers.

The Court declares that the defendants practice of opening regular court proceedings with religious prayers is unconstitutional, Hoyt wrote. Should the defendant violate this Courts declaratory decree, an injunction will issue."

Hoyt ruled that Mack violates the Establishment Clause when, before a captured audience of litigants and their counsel, he presents himself as theopneustically inspired, enabling him to advance, through the chaplaincy program, Gods larger purpose."

"Such a magnanimous goal flies in the face of historical tradition, and makes a mockery of both religion and law," Hoyt, a Reagan nominee, stated.

Annie Laurie Gaylor, FFRF co-president, said in a statement that the "courtroom is not a church."

And a judges bench is not a pulpit, Gaylor stressed. Todays ruling is a victory for the constitutional rights of all Americans and for equal justice under the law.

Judge Mack promised to institute "religious values within the office" and open his courtroom with prayer during his 2014 Republican primary campaign for his position as justice of the peace for Montgomery County Precinct 1.

Mack's duties include serving as a coroner for Montgomery County and carrying out death investigations.

He has implemented various faith-based initiatives, such as the Justice Court Chaplaincy Program and prayer breakfasts.

He established the Justice Court Chaplaincy Program, where volunteer chaplains who are primarily Chrisitan would initiate court proceedings with an opening prayer or an invocation and share a short message from the Bible, the complaint states.

Mack introduced the chaplain and stated the name and location of the chaplains church. The bailiff would announce the prayers and allow anyone to leave the courtroom without their case being affected though the courtroom doors were locked to those on the outside.

Attendees were allowed to leave if they wanted no part in the ceremony and were only required to be present when the court was in session.

Some citizens feared Mack would judge their cases differently based on whether they stayed for the optional prayer.

I felt that the Judge was watching for reactions from the courtroom; bowed heads, indifference etc, an unnamed citizen reported to FFRF.

I definitely felt that our cases were to be affected by our reactions or lack of. I know I was not alone. Once the Bible reading was over we were then asked to bow our heads to pray. I was very uncomfortable and certainly felt that I was being coerced into following this ritual and that the outcome of my case depended upon my body language. ... Although I did not leave as instructed, if I was offended, no one in their right mind would have. ...

In the lawsuit, FRFF asserted Macks chaplain-led prayers are unconstitutionally coercive with purpose and effect of promoting religion.

FFRF wrote a letter to the defendant in September 2014 stating the opening ceremony that included prayer violated the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment, which prohibits the government from respecting an establishment of religion.

In an open letter addressed to Pastors & People of Faith in 2014, Mack wrote that his chaplaincy program has come under "national and local attack" by those that "believe that God & Faith has no place in public lives and service.

I want to make a statement to show those that feel what we are doing is unacceptable ... that God has a place in all aspects of our lives and public service," he assured.

FFRF originally challenged the courtroom prayers through a lawsuit filed in 2017. The suit was refiled in 2019.

FRFF was granted default judgment on March 25, declaring that Macks prayer violated the First Amendment.

Mack is represented by the First Liberty Institute, a legal nonprofit that advocates for religious freedom rights.

Judge Mack is following a long tradition of opening courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, with a ceremonial invocation, First Liberty Institute Deputy General Counsel Justin Butterfield said in a statement. We disagree with the courts decision, and we look forward to appealing this decision to the Fifth Circuit.

Liberty Institute maintains that Mack allows "multi-faith, volunteer chaplains to open his courtroom ceremonies." The program has included chaplains from Christian, Sunni Muslim, Buddhist and Hindu traditions. Mack is not even in the courtroom when the invocations are given, the legal group argues.
Moody sex abuse reporting system 'unsuccessful,' causes 'pervasive distrust': investigation

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Moody Bible Institute leadership has issued an apologetic statement announcing the results of a lengthy investigation into the Chicago-based evangelical institution's protocols amid charges it poorly handled sexual abuse allegations.

In a statement last week, the school apologized to those who "experienced a lack of empathy and follow-through" pertaining to the filing of Title IX reports.

"We also apologize to those whose reports were not processed as rapidly and efficiently as they could have been, MBI President Mark Jobe and Provost Dwight Perry said in the joint statement.

It is the sincere desire of the leadership at Moody to provide a healthy, God-honoring culture that allows our students to grow and mature in a safe and wholesome environment. We commit to doing everything we can moving forward to create a safe environment for all of our students, staff and faculty.

Last fall, the school commissioned Grand River Solutions to investigate after several people complained through a Change.org petition, expressing dismay with how sexual misconduct allegations were dealt with at Moody.

Specifically, the petition claimed that administrators showed an inability or unwillingness to act to address allegations of stalking, discrimination, sexual assault, and rape. The petition went on to accuse the officials of a pattern of dismissal, cover-up, and even disciplinary action being taken against survivors of abuse, after they risked so much to come forward.

GRS interviewed 35 members of the Moody community to assess the effectiveness and impact of training, prevention efforts, communications, and the processes and procedures in place to respond to reports of sexual harassment. The investigation ended in April.

In the 31-page report, GRS noted that Moody's structure for handling sexual assault and misconduct claims proved to be "unsuccessful.' The report contends that there is a culture of "pervasive distrust" of university leadership, including of those who were tasked with administrating sexual assault claims.

"Inadequate resourcing of the Title IX Coordinator and investigator roles has resulted in deficiencies in the performance of these roles and caused high rates of dissatisfaction among individuals serving in the roles, thereby making it difficult for Moody to retain qualified and experienced candidates," the report said.

"Ineffective partnerships between the Title IX Coordinator, Dean of Students, and Vice President of Human Resources (collectively responsible administrators) have had a significant impact on the response to 16 reports, and specifically those reports that were transitioned, or that should have been transitioned, from one administrator to another."

The report explains that Moodys "current organizational structure tasks three administrators with overseeing different aspects of the institutional response to sexual harassment and sexual or interpersonal violence.

The Moody Title IX Coordinator is charged with overall responsibility for compliance with Title IX and is responsible for coordinating the institutional response to sexual harassment and sexual and interpersonal violence falling within the scope of Title IXs limited jurisdiction."

For reports of sexual harassment and misconduct that fall outside the scope of Title IX, the responsibility falls to the dean of students and the vice president of human resources.

The GRS report states that there was a stigma associated with filing a Title IX report against someone on campus for both the person filing the report and the accused.

This type of language reflects a diminishment of the seriousness of the behavior someone experienced before ever considering a report of sexual harassment or sexual or interpersonal violence, the report stressed. Rather than a focus on the implications of a Title IX report, it is our hope that Moodys community will focus on supporting and caring for people that have experienced harm and, as part of the response, providing a process that recognizes the rights of everyone involved.

When coupled with a resentful attitude toward the perceived imposition of government regulations, the historic approach and perspective to Title IX reporting infects the larger community, the report added. Students fear the stigma of initiating a process and faculty and staff reject a responsibility to report because reporting is part of a set of regulations they see as infringing on their deserved autonomy. This means that before anyone can seek support and care from Moody, they must overcome or navigate through additional and unnecessary obstacles.

The report further noted that there are several members of Moodys faculty who are resistant to, or have simply declined, to comply with this requirement that the reports that they receive be referred to the Title IX Coordinator.

The reviewers are concerned that resistance of this kind has already, and may continue to, cause unintended harm to the complainants and to the Moody community as a whole, the report shares.

The school announced that based on the GRS recommendation, the school will be implementing 11 commitments that will be operational starting in the fall of 2021.

Among those commitments, the school will create "one policy regarding sexual harassment and sexual and interpersonal violence" and "a leadership structure where one person is responsible for overseeing the institutional response to all reports of sex-based misconduct." The school also commits to providing additional resourcing for the Title IX Office and "enhanced training."

"We commit to improving perceptions and building trust toward our Title IX compliance program," Moody assured.

The change.org petition from current and former students emerged last October, stating that "while many of us have found God and His calling on our lives within the walls of Moody, some of us have also faced harm.

The petition, which has garnered over 3,200 signatures, specifically criticized Dean of Student Life Tim Arens and Title IX Coordinator Rachel Puente for mishandling their complaints.

Days after the petition went public, Jobe asked students to reserve judgment on Arens and Puente while the investigation was conducted.

"Our posture in this moment must be marked by a spirit of humility and action, Jobe said at the time. We must be on our knees in prayer, and we must listen and learn in order to come through this experience as a stronger community.

Arens has since taken early retirement, and Puente was placed on administrative leave. MBI has not indicated whether Puente's role will change going forward, according to The Roys Report.
Wheaton unveils new wording for martyred missionaries' plaque; savage Indians removed

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Wheaton College has unveiled the new wording for a plaque honoring alumni Jim Elliot and other missionaries killed in Ecuador in 1956, which will replace an earlier plaque that had language considered derogatory towards indigenous people.

In a statement Monday, the Illinois-based evangelical Christian school explained that the reworded plaque will honor the martyred missionaries while also respecting the Waorani people with whom they shared the gospel of the love of Christ.

The new wording was approved by a task force comprised of a historian and a missiologist from the faculty and two students  one in graduate studies and another an undergraduate.

The plaque will be rededicated in the lobby of Edman Chapel sometime in the fall.

Among the changes, the new wording removes the term savage Indians, which had caused controversy. The offensive phrase was replaced with indigenous peoples as a descriptor instead.

The new plaque also removed the term Auca, known to be used as a negative label for the region's indigenous people, replacing it with the proper tribal name Waorani.

Their sacrifice was a turning point for the Waorani and an inspiration for evangelical missions globally," the new wording states. "Inviting members of the mens families to live with them, the Waorani responded to the gospel and put down their spears. Gods redemptive story continues as the gospel is still shared among the Waorani to this day.

Originally dedicated in 1957 by the Wheaton College Class of 1949, the plaque was meant to honor the memory of Wheaton alumni Elliot, Ed McCully and Nate Saint, as well as Roger Youderian and Pete Fleming. They were speared to death by Waorani tribesmen in 1956 when trying to evangelize.

Later, the families of the martyred missionaries decided to live with the tribe and eventually won them over to Christianity, which also led to the Waorani ending their chronic warfare.

Wheaton President Philip Ryken said the school has been "blessed by the strong support for this project" from members of the missionaries' families and their class peers.

In March, Ryken sent a letter to students, staff, and faculty explaining that the school was planning to change the plaque's wording.

According to Ryken, several people had expressed concern that the plaque was offensive.

Any descriptions on our campus of people or people groups should reflect the full dignity of human beings made in the image of God, wrote Ryken at the time.

Joseph Moore, Wheatons director of marketing and communications, told The Christian Post back in March that the response to the plan was extremely positive.

This is especially important for a story that is central to our mission and identity  a story we want the world to know, Moore said.

In the 64 years since the College received this gift, we have also continued to grow in our understanding of how to show Gods love and respect to others.
4 killed by shelling of Catholic church in Myanmar as violence continues after coup

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Four civilians were reportedly killed and around eight injured when military forces fired heavy artillery shells at a Catholic church in the Kayah state of Myanmar around 1 a.m. on Monday, damaging the roof, ceiling and the cross of the church after months of deadly attacks.

The Ministry of International Cooperation of the National Unity Government of Myanmar reported that elderly people and children fled from their homes to hide in a Catholic church in Kayan Thar Yar village after attacks on villagers from the junta military forces (Tatmadaw).

According to Union of Catholic Asia News, about 300 people from 60 families took refuge in the church compound due to clashes between the anti-coup resistance group called the Peoples Defense Force and the military.

H.E. Dr Sasa urgently appeals to the international communities to pray for and make immediate actions and intervention efforts to end this senseless killing of civilians in Myanmar, destruction of Churches, targeting of already oppressed&marginalized ethnic communities in Myanmar pic.twitter.com/lduFjERZSP  Dr. Sasa (@DrSasa22222) May 24, 2021

The outlet reports that all those killed in the church were Catholics.

Father Soe Naing, a spokesperson for Loikaw Diocese, told UCANews that people sheltering in the church fled the premises by the time officials checked the damaged building later on Monday. He explained that thousands in Myanmar have taken refuge at churches and other religious centers because they are thought to be safe locations.

Fides News Agency, the information services of the Pontifical Mission Societies, reports that the military attacked the area with the aim of killing rebel groups and one of the mortar shells hit the church.

Two days earlier, military forces raided a Karen Baptist Church in Insein, Yangon, and destroyed property. According to the Ministry of International Cooperation, military forces brutally beat and detained the pastor and two young men, one of whom was disabled.

These instances are part of a series of violent attacks on Christians and churches since the Feb. 1 military coup, when civilian government leader Aung San Suu Kyi was arrested and deposed.

The coup was met with widespread national protests. Police and military responded with violence. According to the London-based Christian Solidarity Worldwide, the military especially targeted Chrisitan leaders.

The attacks on the churches come as fighting erupted in recent days in the Kayah States Demoso Township. Last week, activists reported that over 800 people have been killed nationwide by security forces cracking down on a wave of protests since the coup.

H.E. Dr. Sasa, union minister of the Ministry of International Cooperation and National Unity Government spokesperson, urged the international community to respond to the continuing crisis in Myanmar.

I urgently appeal to the international communities and the responsible Governments around the world to make immediate actions and intervention efforts to end this senseless killing of civilians in Myanmar, destruction of Churches and targeting of already oppressed and marginalized ethnic communities," Sasa stressed in a statement.

The spokesperson called on the world to "support the brave people of Kayah and of Myanmar overcome this brutal reign of terror by the junta SAC forces and restore democracy, human rights, and freedom to ALL."

Sasa said the aim is to have a Myanmar where people of all backgrounds, religions, races and genders will be treated as "equals."

We have been doing everything we can around the clock, and now we need the support, recognition, actions and intervention from the intentional communities before more innocent civilians are slaughtered, Sasa continued. Myanmar will forever be an ally, friend and partner of all those who help us during this darkest hour of our history.

Benedict Rogers, CSWs Senior Analyst for East Asia, said in a statement that civilians in Myanmar have now been subjected to horrific violations at the hands of the Tatmadaw for well over 100 days."

"We extend our deepest condolences to all those who have lost loved ones in the recent attack on the Catholic church in Kayan Thar Yar and continue to call on the Tatmadaw to cease all targeting of innocent and unarmed civilians," Rogers said. "The international sanctions introduced so far have been welcome, but states can and must do more to cut off funding to the Tatmadaw and increase pressure on it to halt its assault on the people of Myanmar."

CSW urges international governments to impose a global arms embargo.

During Februarys coup, the military declared a year-long state of emergency and put civilian leaders under house arrest, CSW reported.

The U.S. Commission for International Religious Freedom raised concern about the safety of religious minorities in the coup's aftermath.

Given the history of brutal atrocities by the Burmese military, our fear is that violence could quickly escalate, especially towards religious and ethnic communities, such as the Rohingya and other Muslims, USCIRF Vice Chair Anurima Bhargava said in a statement. We urge the Burmese military to honor the faith and will of the Burmese people and restore democratic civilian rule as soon as possible."

Myanmar is ranked No. 18 on Open Doors 2021 World Watch List of countries where Christian persecution is most severe due to its religious nationalism and increasing emphasis on Buddhism.

Myanmar is also home to the longest civil war in the world, which began in 1948. More than 100,000 people, mainly Christians, have been displaced due to the persecution, according to Open Doors.
CANBERRA, Australia (AP)  A group of eight Australian teenage environmentalists lost their court bid Thursday to force the federal government to ban a coal mine expansion.

But their lawyer claimed victory in the Federal Court's ruling that the government has a duty to prevent future climate harm.

The plaintiffs, aged 13 to 17, argued that Environment Minister Sussan Ley had a duty to protect younger people against climate change. Ley is considering whether to approve an expansion of Vickery mine in New South Wales state, and the teenagers sought an injunction preventing the expansion.

Justice Mordy Bromberg rejected their bid, while noting the expansion of the Whitehaven Coal-owned mine would lead to an additional 33 million metric tons (36 million U.S. tons) of coal being extracted over 25 years and 100 million metric tons (110 million U.S. tons) of carbon dioxide being released into the atmosphere.

Bromberg ruled that Ley did owe the children a duty of care under the law of negligence, but said he was not satisfied that a reasonable understanding had been established that Ley would breach her duty of care to the children.

Bromberg found there was a real risk that the extension of the mine near the town of Gunnedah would cause a tiny but measurable increase to global average surface temperatures.

Perhaps the most startling of the potential harms demonstrated by the evidence before the court is that 1 million of todays Australian children are expected to suffer at least one heat stress episode serious enough to require acute care in a hospital, Bromberg said.

Many thousands will suffer premature death from heat stress or bushfire smoke. Substantial economic loss and property damage will be experienced. The Great Barrier Reef and most of Australias eastern eucalypt forests will no longer exist due to repeated, severe bushfires, he added.

The children's lawyer, David Barnden, said he considered the judgment a victory.

The court has found the minister owes a duty of care to younger children, vulnerable people, and that duty says the minister must not act in a way that causes future harm of climate change to younger people, Barnden told reporters.

This is an amazing decision ... an amazing recognition that people in power must not harm younger people by their decisions, Barnden added.

Ley's office said she would consider the judgment before making any public statement.

The case echoes a ruling in Germany last month in which the top court said the government must set clear goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions after 2030, arguing that existing legislation risks placing too much of a burden for curbing climate change on younger generations.

The verdict was a victory for climate activists from Germany and elsewhere who  with the support of environmental groups  had filed four complaints to the Constitutional Court arguing that their rights were at risk by the lack of sufficient targets beyond the next decade.

This month, German officials proposed that the country could bring forward the date for reducing its greenhouse gas emissions to net zero to 2045.

In Australia, the teenagers who filed the case were led by 17-year-old Anjali Sharma with the aid of a so-called litigation guardian, Catholic nun Sister Brigid Arthur, 86.

One of the children, 17-year-old Ava Princi, described the judgment as a relief and called on Ley to ensure the mine extension never occurs.

This is the first time a court of law anywhere in the world has recognized that a government minister has a duty of care to protect young people from the catastrophic harms of climate change, Princi told reporters.

My future and the future of all young people depends on Australia stepping away from fossil fuel projects and joining the world in taking decisive action," she said.

This case was about young people stepping up and demanding more from the adults whose actions are determining our future wellbeing, she added.

The judge called for lawyers for the children and the minister to make further submissions by June 3 on what orders he should make in light of his reasons for judgment.

As the driest continent after Antarctica, Australia is particularly vulnerable to weather extremes associated with climate change.

Australias hottest and driest year in 2019 came to a catastrophic conclusion with wildfires fueled by drought that killed at least 33 people, destroyed more than 3,000 homes and razed 19 million hectares (47 million acres).

Australia is also one of the worlds largest exporters of coal and liquified natural gas and has been criticized for failing to set more ambition targets to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.

On Wednesday, a Dutch court ordered Royal Dutch Shell to cut its carbon emissions by a net 45% by 2030 compared with 2019 levels in a landmark case brought by climate activism groups. The court ruled that the energy giant had a duty to reduce emissions and that its current reduction plans were insufficient.
Last February, Jeff Bezos confirmed his resignation as CEO of Amazon. Today, the founder of the ecommerce giant revealed when he will step down to make way for his successor, Andy Jassy.

Yesterday, March 26, after it was announced that Amazon bought MGM Studios, Bezos confirmed that Jassy will take over as CEO of Amazon on July 5.

Related: Bezos Buys a Megayacht for 500 Million Dollars

"We chose that date because it has sentimental value to me," the 57-year-old tycoon said during a meeting with Amazon shareholders on Wednesday. It turns out that July 5, 1994, was when he founded Amazon Inc. in Seattle.

"This journey began some 27 years ago. Amazon was only an idea, and it had no name. The question I was asked most frequently at that time was, Whats the internet? Blessedly, I havent had to explain that in a long while," Bezos recounted when announcing his resignation almost 4 months ago in an email to employees.

"If you get it right, a few years after a surprising invention, the new thing has become normal. People yawn. And that yawn is the greatest compliment an inventor can receive," the billionaire added. "As much as I still tap dance into the office, Im excited about this transition."

Andy Jassy / Image: Amazon

Andy Jassy, replacing Jeff Bezos, currently runs Amazon Web Services, the company's cloud service.

Related: Who Temporarily Dethroned Jeff Bezos as the Richest Man in the World This Week?

What will Jeff Bezos do now?

With an estimated fortune of $188 billion according to the Forbes Billionaires Index, Jeff Bezos has nothing to worry about. When Jassy takes over as CEO, Bezos will become an executive chair on Amazon's board and plans to focus on his other companies.

"As Exec Chair I will stay engaged in important Amazon initiatives but also have the time and energy I need to focus on the Day 1 Fund, the Bezos Earth Fund, Blue Origin, The Washington Post, and my other passions. Ive never had more energy, and this isnt about retiring. Im super passionate about the impact I think these organizations can have," Bezos wrote in the email.

Related: Jeff Bezos's Amazon Could End Up Bankrupt For These Reasons, According to a Specialist

Copyright 2021 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved
A man visiting the Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas, found a diamond he plans to use for an engagement ring.

Christian Liden, 26, has spent five years panning for gold in Washington, where he lives. As soon as he had gathered enough gold to make a ring, he headed to Arkansas in hopes of finding the perfect gem.
BEULAH  St. Philip's Episcopal Church has received a grant of $48,360 to enable its priests, the Revs. Christian and Jodi Baron, to participate in the 2020 National Clergy Renewal Program.

St. Philip's is one of 140 congregations across the United States selected to participate in this competitive grant program, which is funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. and administered by Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, according to a news release.

Established by the Endowment in 2000, the program's grants allow Christian congregations to support their pastors with the gift of extended time away from their ministerial duties and responsibilities. Ministers whose congregations are awarded the grants use their time away from the demands of daily ministry to engage in reflection and renewal.

The approach respects the Sabbath time concept, offering ministers a carefully considered respite that may include travel, study, rest, prayer and immersive arts and cultural experiences.

Through the National Clergy Renewal Program, congregations apply for grants of up to $50,000 to support renewal programs for their pastors. Collaborative in nature and implementation, the program allows congregations to partner with their ministers in developing experiences that address their unique renewal needs and aspirations. Recognizing that minister's families are subject to the stress and demands placed on pastoral leaders, the program encourages pastors to involve their families in renewal activities.

Congregational needs during the minister's renewal experience also are considered. Up to $15,000 of the grant may be used to support interim pastoral leadership during the pastor's retreat, as well as renewal activities within the congregation.

Since the National Clergy Renewal Program's inception, more than 3,000 congregations have participated in the program, including the 140 congregations receiving grants in 2020. The Barons and St. Philip's Parish Program of Renewal involves time for individual reconnection with self, as spouses and parents, and as a congregation, all seeking a deeper understanding of what it means to be loved by God and to love neighbors, through the practice of Sabbath.

A deeper understanding of the theology of Sabbath and how that pertains to discipleship, for those who have retired and those still working, will strengthen the congregant's understanding of their own individual, and thus communal, belovedness.

While the Barons are away, the Rev. Erin Jean Warde, of Austin, Texas, will be present with the congregation.

"Pastors play an important role in nourishing the spiritual lives of individuals and in guiding the work of the Christian congregations they serve," said Christopher L. Coble, Lilly Endowment's vice president for religion. "Through these grants, we seek to honor pastors for their extraordinary service and enable them to engage in a brief period of rest and renewal. We have learned that such experiences invigorate the leadership of pastors and bring new vitality to their congregations as well."

The Rev. Dr. Robert Saler, research fellow and director of the Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Programs, noted that the National Clergy Renewal Program integrates key attributes of healthy congregations, including a mutual respect for the renewal needs of both ministers and the congregations they serve.

"The program provides an opportunity for congregations to express appreciation for their minister's service and leadership," Saler said. "At a time when leaders are often praised for their pace of innovation and productivity, the National Clergy Renewal Program pays homage to the timeless wisdom embedded in the practice of reflection and renewal."

Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis directs the Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Program for Indiana Congregations and a second program for congregations across the United States through its Center for Pastoral Excellence.
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The Russian Foreign Ministry said Wednesday it has decided to expel a Bulgarian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move.

The ministry said it had summoned the ambassador of Bulgaria to inform him that an employee from the Bulgarian Embassy in Russia has been declared "persona non grata."

It added that the measure was taken in response to the "groundless" expulsion of a Russian diplomat at the Russian Embassy in Sofia earlier in April.
LAKE COUNTY  The Mason-Lake Conservation District is looking for an intern to collect samples from the Little Manistee River this summer.

As part of the Little Manistee Watershed Conservation Council management plan, the water quality intern will help with macro-invertebrate sampling and water quality sampling along the river.

The management plan, approved by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy in 2020, includes short- and long-term goals and activities for the Little Manistee River, such as physical improvements and community education on water quality, according to a news release announcing the internship.

In efforts to start work on some those activities, the LMWCC has partnered with Mason-Lake and Manistee conservation districts. In addition to the internship, the conservation districts have assisted LMWCC with a grant application that would allow an employee to be hired and further facilitate actions related to the watershed management plan," the release stated. This request for proposals was offered through EGLE, but results have yet to be announced.

HOW TO APPLY

According to the job post on the Mason-Lake Conservation District's website, the internship will be 20 hours per week from early-June through mid-October. Time will be split between the office, based in Scottsville, near Ludington, and in the field collecting samples.

Intern should have have at least 60 college credits in a bachelor's level environmental conservation or biology-related program. College credit may be available. Additional qualifications and a list of responsibilities may be found at mason-lakeconservation.org.

To apply, submit a cover letter, resume, college transcripts and list of three references by email to Dani McGarry at the Mason-Lake Conservation District at dani.mcgarry@macd.org. Please list water quality internship in the email subject line. For questions about to the position, email or call McGarry at 231-757-3707 ext. 102.

WHY MACRO-INVERTEBRATES?

The goals of the Little Manistee Watershed Conservation Council (LMWCC) are to restore, protect, and preserve the natural character of the watershed by communicating resource problems and then offering and implementing problem resolution, according to the news release.

One of the ways it does this is by monitoring water quality through macro-invertebrates.

"Macro-invertebrates are small insects that live in the river or along stream edges and serve as indicators of water quality, depending on the diversity of species that are found and their quantities," the release said. "Water quality sampling looks at physical parameters such as bacteria levels, nitrogen or phosphorus levels, which provide insights on the health of the water itself as well as fish habitat."

According to the release, LMWCC has been monitoring these parameters to identify any trends or changes in river health. The monitoring has been done in tandem with MiCorps, a statewide program for citizen scientists to monitor the health of streams annually.

The Little Manistee River is a 60-plus-mile tributary of the Manistee River that cuts through northern Lake County and ends in the Manistee Lake on the shoreline of Lake Michigan. To learn more about LMWCC, visit lmwcc.org. To learn more about the Mason-Lake Conservation District, visit mason-lakeconservation.org.
The Grand Oaks High School class of 2021 has a lot to be recognized for. After surviving a global pandemic and a historic winter freeze all in the same year, this years seniors are the very first graduating class of Grizzlies.

Last year, all Conroe ISD graduations were held at Woodforest Bank Stadium to allow for social distancing. This year, the ceremonies returned to the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands. Grand Oaks students may have missed a lot this year, but they didnt miss the tradition of walking across the stage at the covered outdoor venue.

This year, around 580 graduates, draped in gray robes with blue and orange accents on the sleeve, celebrated finishing their high school career.

Its really humbling, actually, Mailee Gary said of being a member of the schools first graduating class. Its more about just moving on in life, moving forward and becoming an adult.

While walking across the stage is humbling, just being done with the school year is liberating, Gary said.

Robert Chalk, like his fellow graduate Gary, is ready to be done with the year. As he stands with his family waiting to find their seats, he is eager to graduate, already wearing his cap. All thats left is to accept his diploma.

It feels good, he said. I feel accomplished. I reached what I wanted to reach and graduated.

After graduation Chalk will be heading to welding school.

Priscilla Aklassou didnt expect the adrenaline of graduating to hit her until after shes walked across the stage.

I feel like my heart will be beating. I will feel grown; I will feel like I really am out there now, Aklassou said.

Shes relieved to be done with a stressful year but sad to be no longer a kid. Her next chapter will begin with a year at Lone Star College before transferring to University of North Texas to study business. Waiting with her before they have to take their seats is her friend Cameron King.

Its exciting, its refreshing, King said. Its been a long four years.

After graduation King plans on attending the Fashion Institute of New York starting in January of 2022. To next years seniors she has this advice: keep going.

Persevere, do not give up, because there is going to be two months where you just arent feeling it, King said. Keep going.

Graduation speaker Hadley Adkison promised to keep her speech short so they could all get to the business of being done with high school. In under four minutes she reminded her fellow Grizzlies of all that they had accomplished since they became the first class to enter the school.

The traditions and success they have accomplished will set the bar for future graduates. Adkinson challenged her class to remember their roots as they set off.

Embody the culture we have created, be dedicated to growing, be a role model of respect, take ownership of your future and let your work ethic shine throug , and remember to be proud, she said. Once a Grizzly, always a Grizzly.

jamie.swinnerton@chron.com
PHILADELPHIA (AP)  Two men were accused of setting fire to a Pennsylvania State Police patrol vehicle during a 2020 demonstration in Philadelphia after the death of George Floyd, federal prosecutors announced Thursday.

According to a superseding indictment, Fulton Smith, 26, of Philadelphia, and Ayoub Tabri, 25, of Arlington, Virginia, were charged with two counts of arson and one count of obstruction of law enforcement.
PHOENIX (AP)  The Arizona Senate late Wednesday gave an initial OK to boosting the daily expense pay that lawmakers who live outside of Maricopa receive during the legislative session.

The Senate in a voice vote agreed to raise the per diem rate for rural lawmakers to the one federal employees receive when they travel to Phoenix for business.

The proposal by Republican Sen. David Gowan of Sierra Vista originally also gave lawmakers in Maricopa County an increase in daily expense pay, but it was amended Wednesday to leave that at $35 a day.

Under HB2053, rural lawmakers would get $56 a day for food and $151 for lodging during the first 120 days of the legislative session. The rate would be cut in half after 120 session days. Rural lawmakers currently get a flat $60 a day for expenses and that hasnt changed since 1984.

The pay and rates would be automatically adjusted each year when the U.S. General Services Administration sets them for federal workers. .The rates for Maricopa County lawmakers would drop after 120 days in session to $10 a day, as it is currently,

Lawmakers earn $24,000 a year in salary, which can only be modified by voters, who have repeatedly rejected increases over the years. Therefore, the per diem becomes a significant contributor to their income during session.

The measure now needs a formal Senate vote before heading to the House for action.

Rural lawmakers from both parties support the increase, saying that serving in the Legislature often costs them more than they take home in pay and prevents average residents from running for office.

This is not a salary increase, said Sen. Lisa Otondo, a Democrat who lives in Yuma and represents a sprawling district that stretches from the Southwest Valley to the Mexican border. This is a per diem increase so that candidates from either party can have access and run for this office and not lose money.

Gowan also lobbied the public for support of his proposal.

I do have to hold down two households in the meantime while Im here during the five to six month period of time, Gowan said. The issue here is about being able to do the travel, being able to pay for the living expenses that incurs while were here.

Lawmakers approved a per diem hike in 2019, but it was vetoed by Gov. Doug Ducey.
YEREVAN, Armenia (AP)  The Armenian military said Thursday that six of its troops have been taken prisoner by neighboring Azerbaijan, an incident that further exacerbates tensions between the two ex-Soviet nations in the wake of an outbreak of hostilities over the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

Azerbaijan's Defense Ministry claimed that the Armenian soldiers were seized early Thursday when they attempted to cross the border and place mines on supply routes leading to the Azerbaijani positions.

Armenian authorities insisted that the soldiers were captured on Armenia's side of the border while conducting engineering works, and demanded their immediate release.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan told a government meeting that the soldiers were planting a minefield with warning signs on Armenian territory near the border.

The U.S. expressed concern at the incident, and called on both sides to resolve it swiftly and peacefully.

We also continue to call on Azerbaijan to release immediately all prisoners of war and other detainees, and we remind Azerbaijan of its obligations under international humanitarian law to treat all detainees humanely, State Department spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement.

The United States considers any movements along the non-demarcated areas of the international border between Armenia and Azerbaijan to be provocative and unnecessary, he added. We reject the use of force to demarcate the border and call on both sides to return to their previous positions and to cease military fortification of the non-demarcated border and the emplacement of landmines.

The capture of the Armenian soldiers comes as the South Caucasus neighbors trade angry accusations over the demarcation of their border. Armenia has accused Azerbaijani troops of intrusion and Azerbaijan has denied it.

More than 6,000 people were killed last fall in the six weeks of fighting over Nagorno-Karabakh, which lies within Azerbaijan but was under the control of ethnic Armenian forces backed by Armenia since a separatist war there ended in 1994.

The hostilities ended with a Russia-brokered peace deal in November allowing Azerbaijan to reclaim control over large parts of Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding areas, which Armenia-backed separatists controlled for more than 25 years.
NOGALES, Ariz. (AP)  A man who was fatally shot after a police pursuit involving an 18-wheeler that began in Rio Rico has been identified by authorities.

Arizona Department Public Safety officials said Wednesday that the man who died was 39-year-old Glen Ray Cockrum.
ELGIN, Ill. (AP)  Reckless homicide charges have been filed against two men who were street racing in the Chicago suburb of Elgin when their vehicle struck a car full of Judson University students, killing two of them, Kane County prosecutors announced Thursday.

In addition to the reckless homicide charges, Trevon Morris, 21, of Elgin is charged with aggravated driving under the influence of an intoxicating substance. Kahleel Steele, 22, of Carpentersville is also charged with misdemeanor speeding and possession of more than 30 grams of marijuana.
BEIJING (AP)  China on Thursday accused the Biden administration of playing politics and shirking its responsibility in calling for a renewed investigation into the origins of the coronavirus pandemic that was first detected in China in late 2019.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said at a daily briefing that President Joe Bidens order showed the U.S. does not care about facts and truth, nor is it interested in serious scientific origin tracing."

Biden told U.S. intelligence officials to redouble their efforts to investigate the origins of the pandemic, including any possibility the trail might lead to a Chinese laboratory.

After months of minimizing that possibility as a fringe theory, the Biden administration is joining worldwide pressure on China to be more open about the outbreak, aiming to head off Republican complaints the president has not been tough enough to press China on alleged obstruction.

Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, have promoted the theory that the virus emerged from a laboratory rather than naturally through human contact with an infected animal in the central Chinese city of Wuhan.

Zhao also said the U.S. must open itself up to investigations into its biological laboratories, including at the Naval Medical Research Centers Biological Defense Research Directorate at Fort Detrick in the state of Maryland.

The U.S. side claims that it wants China to participate in a comprehensive, transparent, evidence-based international investigation," Zhao said. We would like to ask the U.S. side to do the same as China and immediately cooperate with the World Health Organization on origin tracing research in a scientific manner."

Biden on Wednesday asked U.S. intelligence agencies to report back within 90 days. He directed U.S. national laboratories to assist with the investigation and the intelligence community to prepare a list of specific queries for the Chinese government. He called on China to cooperate with international probes into the origins of the pandemic.

Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, have promoted the theory that the virus emerged from a laboratory accident rather than naturally through human contact with an infected animal at a traditional wet market in Wuhan.

Biden in a statement said the majority of the intelligence community had coalesced around those two scenarios but do not believe there is sufficient information to assess one to be more likely than the other. He revealed that two agencies lean toward the animal link and one leans more toward the lab theory, each with low or moderate confidence.

Prior to the president's statement, his administration had sought to avoid public discussion of the lab leak theory while privately suggesting it was farfetched.

In another sign of shifting attitudes, the Senate approved two Wuhan lab-related amendments without opposition, attaching them to a largely unrelated bill to increase U.S. investments in innovation.

Biden still held out the possibility that a firm conclusion may never be reached, given the Chinese governments refusal to fully cooperate with international investigations.

The failure to get our inspectors on the ground in those early months will always hamper any investigation into the origin of COVID-19, he said.

Administration officials continue to harbor strong doubts about the lab leak theory, viewing Chinas refusal to cooperate in the investigation more as emblematic of other irresponsible actions on the world stage.

Andy Slavitt, Bidens senior adviser for the coronavirus, said Tuesday that the world needs to get to the bottom ... whatever the answer may be.

We need a completely transparent process from China; we need the WHO to assist in that matter, Slavitt said. We dont feel like we have that now.

Zhao said the administration's position came in in total disregard of facts and science ... while totally ignoring the doubts over the origin-tracing work and failure of pandemic response in the U.S."

This fully shows that the U.S. side does not care about facts and truth, nor is it interested in serious scientific origin tracing, but wants to use the epidemic to engage in stigmatization and political manipulation, and to shirk responsibility," Zhao said. This is disrespectful to science and irresponsible to peoples lives, and moreover, it undermines the global unity of efforts to fight the epidemic."
Soon after turning 21, Jacob York and his buddies from the University of Missouri were in Miami Beach, Florida, for spring break. They spent their days by the shore and nights at the bar.

So when he felt an incredibly sore throat and a headache, he chalked it up to too much partying and not enough sleep.

Around the time they returned to school, COVID-19 restrictions were put into place. He left his off-campus apartment in Columbia and returned to his parents' home in Hannibal, Missouri.

His sore throat lingered. His headache worsened. He finally went to the doctor and was diagnosed with mononucleosis.

Still, his headaches continued nonstop. He was so fatigued and uncomfortable that he spent his free time in bed. His mother, Christy York, worried it something more than just mono. While COVID-19 was an obvious concern, his symptoms indicated something else.

But what was it?

"We took him to like five doctors," she said.

One of the doctors saw something strange on a CT scan. She thought it was a blockage related to a sinus infection.

Two days later, Jacob woke up in agony. He called his mother, who was already at work.

"My head's hurting so bad I feel like my eyes could pop out," he told her.

She'd already scheduled an appointment with yet another doctor later that day. In fact, he was due there in an hour.

"But please go to the ER if you can't wait," she said.

Jacob's sister, a nurse, came to the house to see if she could help. She and their father were in the kitchen looking up Jacob's symptoms online and discussing what to do.

"All of a sudden my right arm literally stuck straight out and then it went raised in the air, like it was locked," Jacob recalled. "I stood up and said, 'Oh my god, I'm having a stroke.'"

Then he collapsed onto the floor.

When he regained consciousness, Jacob's right side was paralyzed. His speech was garbled.

His family called 911. When paramedics arrived, his sister told them Jacob said he was having a stroke. At the emergency room, the doctor didn't think so because of Jacob's age.

Doctors knew he needed care beyond the scope of what they could provide in Hannibal. So they sent him by ambulance to a hospital in Columbia, nearly 100 miles away.

There, an MRI revealed Jacob had a blood clot in his brain that caused a stroke. They said it could have been from the combination of having mono and being dehydrated, but they couldn't be certain.

Doctors gave him blood-thinning medication in hopes the clot would dissolve. It did.

The next day he had full use of his body.

"They sent in a physical therapist to evaluate me and she said there was no reason to come back because I didn't need any help," he said.

For about a month, Jacob had occasional tingling and numbness in his right arm.

Now, more than a year later, Jacob said the only lasting effect has been psychological.

"Before I had my stroke, I'd never experienced anxiety and depression," he said. "Now I get super emotional."

Jacob has no idea why he stood and declared he was having a stroke. At the time, he knew hardly anything about stroke  except that it usually happened to people much older.

While that's true, it's also true that a stroke can happen to anyone.

In hopes of finding others who could relate, Jacob joined an online support group for young survivors. Even among them, he's by far the youngest. His search for people to connect with continues.

Meanwhile, Jacob is terrified he'll have another stroke.

Doctors told him that would be highly unlikely. Still, he goes to the doctor or hospital for anything that feels off.

He's also afraid to push his body. While he's resumed working out, he doesn't do it as often or as intensely.

There is one change he's proud of: Switching his major from business to psychology.

"I'm hoping I can help people," he said. "I guess I feel more sensitive."

Although Jacob prefers not to talk about his stroke or the aftermath, he's forced himself to do so because he understands his story could help someone.

His message to fellow survivors, especially young ones, is simple: You're not alone.

"When it comes to a stroke, it's more than just whether your face is drooping or you lose feeling," he said. "It's also mental."

Stories From the Heart chronicles the inspiring journeys of heart disease and stroke survivors, caregivers and advocates.

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DENVER (AP)  A Colorado bill would provide free contraceptives and reproductive care to people living in the U.S. illegally.

The legislation, heard by the House Health and Insurance committee Wednesday, aims to create a reproductive health care program within the state health department to provide contraceptives, management of birth control products or devices and counseling to people who do not qualify for Medicaid because of their citizenship or immigration status.

Democratic Rep. Yadira Caraveo, one of the bills sponsors, cited medical studies that show access to contraception leads to declines in maternal and infant mortality and higher graduation rates among young women.

By helping them plan pregnancies and achieve goals like graduation or higher education, more Coloradans will be able to make informed, healthy choices and avoid the cycle of poverty, Caraveo said.

Oregon and Washington already have similar programs, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research and policy organization for sexual and reproductive health and rights.

The bill also allows for Medicaid recipients to obtain 12 months of birth control at once, a service that some private insurance companies currently provide, Caraveo said.

Across the U.S., 38% of Latinas are uninsured and a quarter of them live in poverty, according to the bill. In Colorado, Latinx have the highest uninsured rate at 27% of the population.

In the U.S., 45% of all pregnancies are unintended and approximately half are among people who were not using contraception. For Hispanic women, 50% of pregnancies are unintended and Latina youth experience pregnancy at roughly twice the rate of their white counterparts, according to the bill.

Karla Gonzales Garcia, policy director for Colorado Organization for Latina Opportunity and Reproductive Rights which helped craft the bill, said access to reproductive care is about justice just as much as health and that the bill ensures Colorado does not leave anyone behind simply based on a piece of paper."

Immigration status nor income should determine who gets to care for themselves and their families, who gets to decide when they become parents and build a family or who is denied care and support, she said.

The bill's fiscal note estimates that around 27,000 people are eligible for the program and will enroll, which could avoid 200 unintended pregnancies each year and may save the state an average of $10,765 per pregnancy.

Irene Jaw, a nurse practitioner in Douglas County, who testified in support, noted that birth control availability is important because its also used for complex health issues like pelvic pain, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, abnormal uterine bleeding and endometriosis.

Research from the Guttmacher Institute suggests that immigrant women are less likely than U.S.-born women to receive preventive services such as Pap smears to detect and prevent cervical cancer and screening or vaccinations for hepatitis B, an infection that can be life threatening for infants.

Jaw, who also worked as a sexual assault nurse examiner said shes witnesses the emotional burden on sexual assault survivors who do not have sufficient access to contraceptives.

Access to emergency contraception is important for survivors to prevent pregnancy and regain control over their lives and their own bodies by deciding if and when they would like to have children, she added.

Republican Rep. Mark Baisley said he couldnt support the bill in the interest of his constituents.

The money to pay for such things doesnt just come from the state. It doesnt just come from government. It comes from the people who are taxed to pay for that, he said.

The Colorado Cathodic Conference opposes the bill because of the church's views on birth control.

Contraception is contrary to the teachings of the Catholic Church and therefore we oppose a bill that increases taxpayer funding to promote its use," spokesperson Mark Hass said.

The bill passed the committee on an 8-4 vote with all present Republicans opposed. It will go to the House Appropriations next.

___

Nieberg is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
 Flash

Many people were missing on Wednesday after a boat carrying over 160 passengers sank in a river in northwest Nigeria, a police spokesperson said.

Nafiu Abubakar, the police spokesperson in Kebbi state, told Xinhua on the phone the police have received information that a boat carrying more than 160 people capsized in the Niger River while on its way to Kebbi from the neighboring Niger state.

Abubakar said the casualty and actual figure of missing people were unclear at the moment, and a rescue operation is ongoing to find the missing passengers.

"The marine police have been deployed to the area and they're already carrying out rescue operation, as well as investigation into the incident," Abubakar said.

A district official in Kebbi state was quoted by local media as saying that the tragedy was a result of overloading, and so far only 22 people on board have been rescued, with more than 100 people still missing.

Boat accidents are not uncommon in Nigeria due to overloading and faulty operation. The boat mishap happened about two weeks after a boat sank in Niger state on May 8, killing at least 28 people.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP)  West Virginia is holding a condensed version of its annual Vandalia Gathering this weekend in Charleston.

A two-hour free outdoor concert will be held Saturday at the state Culture Center, the Department of Arts, Culture and History said in a news release. Available seating will be limited and concertgoers are being encouraged to bring their own chairs. The concert will be broadcast online.

It also will include the presentation of the 2020 and 2021 Vandalia Awards, the states highest folk-life honor. Last years festival was canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The festival is typically a three-day celebration of traditional arts, crafts, music, dance and food during Memorial Day weekend. No food or vendors will be on the grounds this year. The concert will follow pandemic health guidelines. Fully vaccinated individuals are not required to wear a face covering or observe social distancing.
OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP)  A Washington man with a YouTube channel does not qualify as a member of the media under the states public records law, meaning he is not entitled to certain records that are available to news organizations but otherwise exempt from release to the general public, the state Supreme Court ruled Thursday.

In a 7-2 opinion, which overrules part of a Thurston County Superior Court ruling that found otherwise, the high court said that the statutory definition of news media requires an entity to have a legal identity separate from the individual.

The ruling comes in the case of Brian Green, who runs the Libertys Champion YouTube channel and sought photographs and birth date information from the Pierce County personnel files of jail staff and law enforcement employees. Such information is exempt from release to the public under current law, but an exception to the exemption exists for members of the news media.

Green had filed a public records request in 2017 seeking information on deputy and jail personnel related to a 2014 incident in which he was arrested at the County-City Building in Tacoma, where Green and another man went to pay a parking ticket but refused to let security search a bag, according to court records. Green was released the next day and a charge of criminal obstruction was dismissed.

In his public records request, Green signed the email with the title Investigative Journalist and his YouTube page cites a focus on exposing corruption. While the Pierce County Sheriffs Department did provide Green with 11 pages of records, it did not include the personnel information, noting the information was exempt. Green sued, saying that he and his YouTube channel met the statutory definition of news media because he gathers and reports news.

The trial court found that the statutory definition of news media does not require financial profit or a corporate structure, noted that the channel published videos every week, and found that the channel met the definition of a news organization. The Supreme Court upheld a portion of the lower court ruling that denied Pierce Countys motion for additional material on the YouTube channel's organizational structure.

In overturning the crux of the lower court ruling, Supreme Court Justice Raquel Montoya-Lewis wrote that the YouTube channel fails the first part of a two-step analysis to determine whether a group falls under one of the listed traditional news outlets listed or the general term entity as defined in current state statutes.

The statute, enacted in 2007 by the Legislature for purposes of defining who is covered by a law protecting journalists from facing prison for not revealing confidential sources, includes newspapers, wire services, radio and television, as well as any entity that is in the regular business of news gathering and disseminating news or information to the public by any means as well as those who are employed by the entities listed.

Montoya-Lewis noted that the word entity followed a list of traditional news outlets and said that while traditional news organizations also create and run their own YouTube channels, owning and operating a YouTube channel alone does not create a news media entity.

The manner in which we access news today is vastly different from how we did it in 2007, and this statutory definition may not comport with the current intersection of social media and the news, Motoya-Lewis wrote. However, the legislature, not the court, is responsible for enacting statutes, and this court is bound by the statutes unambiguous language.

The courts dissent, written by Justice G. Helen Whitener, argued that nothing in state statutes requires a news organization to be a commercial business. Whitener wrote that under her reading of the current law, Green's YouTube channel "cannot be precluded from counting as news media simply because it lacks a separate legal identity from Green."

From the perspective of the First Amendment, distinguishing different news media based on size or organizational structure or status as a legal entity is disfavored, if not outright impermissible, she wrote.

Joseph Thomas, Greens attorney, agreed with the dissenting justices concerns about First Amendment issues.

As the United States Supreme Court has recognized, the freedom of the press is a fundamental personal right which in its historic connotation comprehends every sort of publication which affords a vehicle of information and opinion, he said.

Email and phone messages left with an attorney for Pierce County were not immediately returned. The case now heads back to the lower court, with instructions from the Supreme Court to dismiss Green's complaint.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  The number of COVID-19 deaths has now surpassed 7,000 in Wisconsin, but data that shows the number of coronavirus cases declining and more people being vaccinated offered some hope in the yearlong pandemic.

The state Department of Health on Wednesday reported five new deaths and 330 new cases of COVID-19, which has claimed the lives of 7,003 people in Wisconsin.
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP)  A new DNA database match has led to the arrest of a man in connection with a 1984 kidnapping and sexual assault in Connecticut, police announced Thursday.

Avon police said they served an arrest warrant on George Legere, 73, at the Hampden County jail in Springfield, Massachusetts, where authorities arrested him on May 19.

Legere is charged with three counts of first-degree kidnapping in the abduction and sexual assault of a person found in a vehicle slumped over the steering wheel with the horn sounding in Avon at about 4 a.m. on April 13, 1984.

It wasn't clear if Legere has a lawyer who could respond to the allegations. He was detained on a $675,000 bond and is scheduled to be arraigned in Hartford Superior Court on Friday.

Police in Avon, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) west of Hartford, said DNA was collected from the 1984 crime, but the state crime lab was not able to identify a suspect at the time. The DNA information was entered into a national database.

Police said they were recently notified by the crime lab that a match came up between the DNA evidence and Legere's DNA. Authorities said Legere had a DNA sample taken from him when he was released from a prison sentence in Massachusetts.

Legere has a criminal record that includes arrests and convictions in 31 separate cases, including convictions for sexual assault and kidnapping, Avon police said.

The Avon Police Department would like to acknowledge the diligent work done by the officers and detectives who followed up on numerous leads and suspects in 1984, police said in a statement. Their hard work resulted in the solving of this case 37 years later.

Police also credited present-day detectives, and added the victim in this case, who despite having to constantly relive this trauma, was fully supportive of our efforts to bring this case to conclusion.

Authorities could not file sexual assault charges because the statute of limitations expired. There is no statute of limitations for kidnapping in Connecticut.
MOUNDS VIEW, Minn. (AP)  Criminal charges have been filed against a driver accused of striking and killing a woman doing yard work in front of her Mounds View home.

Donald Harris, 62, of Coon Rapids, is due in Ramsey County District Court Thursday on charges of criminal homicide in Tuesday's hit-and-run death of 82-year-old Mary Preciado.
TULSA, Okla. (AP)  The governing board of a virtual charter school that has grown to become the largest public school in Oklahoma voted to end its contract with the for-profit school management company owned by its co-founders.

Epic Charter Schools' seven-member board of education unanimously approved a mutual termination agreement Wednesday, declaring its independence from Epic Youth Service, effective July 1.

This school has outgrown its management company, which is why we did what we did today,  said newly seated board Chair Paul Campbell.

In a separate vote, Epics governing board also severed all ties to Epic subsidiary Community Strategies-CA LLC, the Tulsa World reported.

State and federal officials have been investigating since last year for allegedly embezzling millions in state funds by illegally inflating student enrollment counts. Among the biggest concerns of state investigators and a grand jury is Epic Youth Services, which has received a 10% management fee paid for by public funds.

A state audit of Epic released in October revealed lax school board oversight, including that one of every four taxpayer dollars Epic had received went to Epic Youth Services. The state auditor found that 63% of those taxpayer dollars  nearly $80 million budgeted for students learning needs  had been shielded from all public or auditor scrutiny. The auditor is still battling in court to get access to those spending records.

The audit also found the company improperly transferred $203,000 in state taxpayer dollars from the Oklahoma schools student Learning Fund account to help with start-up expenses for expanding its operations into California.

At the conclusion of Wednesday's meeting, former board Chair and Tulsa attorney, Doug Scott, resigned.

Its time for me to step down. Its time for this school to close a chapter and start a new one, and that includes me moving on, said Scott.

Fueled by skyrocketing enrollment amid the coronavirus pandemic that forced closures of traditional districts, Epic Charter Schools has grown to become the largest district in the state, with more than 60,000 students. From 2015 to 2020, the school received more than $458 million in state and federal funds.
KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. (AP)  A federal indictment unsealed Wednesday accuses a former Klamath Falls police officer of stealing methamphetamine and fentanyl from an evidence locker and then overdosing on the drugs in his police cruiser.

The indictment says the officers cruiser jumped a median, veered into oncoming traffic and caused a multi-car crash at a local intersection on Nov. 27, The Oregonian/OregonLive reported.
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP)  A fiery 2019 Florida interstate crash that killed five children from a Louisiana church headed to Walt Disney World was caused by a truck driver who hid his long medical history becoming incapacitated and losing control of his semi, investigators said in a report released Thursday.

The National Transportation Safety Board said Steve Holland, 59, had heart disease and other medical conditions when his truck slammed through the center divider on Interstate 75 near Gainesville on Jan. 3, 2019, and into the church van, but for years had failed to report them when he received the health certificate needed to renew his license.

The report said Holland's medical history probably would not have prevented him from getting his certificate, but it probably would have been for less than the maximum two years that he received.

In the month before the crash, Holland had been treated by doctors for a persistent cough and weakness and had told another driver he had been suffering from chest pains, but he kept driving, the report said. His autopsy said heart disease was a contributing factor to his death, but the report says it is uncertain what medical issue caused him to lose control.

Holland was heading north, carrying mail from South Florida to Georgia for Eagle Express when he lost control about 3:40 p.m. on a clear, dry highway. His truck veered to the left, smashing into a car and pushing both through the center guardrail.

The truck then smashed into a southbound van carrying 12 adults and children from the Avoyelles House of Mercy, a Pentecostal church in Marksville, Louisiana. The children were on winter break and were less than two hours from Disney World. Holland's truck then smashed head on into another truck, also killing that driver. Several children and Holland were thrown from their vehicles, with the trucks erupting in flames.

A fifth car, unable to avoid the chaos, sped through and hit people who were thrown from the van, the highway patrol said. In addition to the seven deaths, at least eight others were injured, some seriously.

Authorities identified the dead children as Joel Cloud and Jeremiah Warren, both 14; Cara Descant, 13; Briena Descant, 10; and Cierra Bordelan, 9. Church officials did not immediately respond late Thursday to a call and Facebook message seeking comment.

The report says Holland had suffered a heart attack and had undergone bypass surgery in 2010, had high blood pressure and numerous other conditions.

But after receiving only one-year certificates in 2012 and 2013 because of his mounting health issues, Holland in 2014 began falsifying that information on the questionnaire drivers fill out during their health examinations, answering no to specific questions about those conditions, investigators said. He also started seeing different doctors who were not familiar with his history. His last examination was 11 months before the crash.

Investigators said there were no mechanical defects to his truck, a 2016 Freightliner, that would have caused the crash. Eagle Express is a division of 10 Roads Express. The Carter Lake, Iowa, company did not immediately respond to an email message late Thursday.

Court records show Holland received numerous tickets between 2000 and 2014 in Florida, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana and Virginia for violations such as speeding, driving an unsafe vehicle, driving an overloaded vehicle and not carrying proof of insurance.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP)  Two groups representing online companies sued Florida on Thursday over a new law that seeks to punish large social media businesses like Facebook and Twitter if they remove content or ban politicians.

Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill Monday that will allow the state to fine large social media sites if they inactivate a statewide politician's account and will let any Floridian sue those companies if they feel like they've been treated unfairly.

NetChoice, a lobbying firm that represents Twitter, Facebook and other online companies, and the Computer and Communications Industry Association sued, saying the law violates First Amendment rights.

The suit filed in the U.S. District Court in Tallahassee says the law prevents companies from protecting users, advertisers and the public from pornography, terrorist incitement, false propaganda created and spread by hostile foreign governments, calls for genocide or race-based violence, disinformation regarding Covid-19 vaccines, fraudulent schemes, egregious violations of personal privacy, counterfeit goods and other violations of intellectual property rights, bullying and harassment, conspiracy theories denying the Holocaust or 9/11, and dangerous computer viruses.

DeSantis attacked Big Tech during a press conference to sign the bill, comparing it to Big Brother in the George Orwell novel 1984. He said internet companies are censoring posts that don't fit with the ideology of Silicon Valley.

Responding to Twitter and Facebook blocking former President Donald Trump, Republicans across the country have attacked social media companies for what they say is censorship of conservative ideology. While similar bills have been filed in other states, DeSantis was the first governor to sign one into law.

The governor's office defended the new law, saying Big Tech companies discriminate on political and ideological line and the law protects Floridians constitutional rights.

Big Tech is in some ways more powerful than government, and certainly less accountable. Free speech is a sacred right for all Americans. It is recognized that government has a role in protecting consumers against discrimination and deceptive/unfair trade practices, and this law is within that authority to rein in a powerful entity that oversteps individuals free speech rights, DeSantis spokeswoman Taryn Fenske said in an email.

The law that goes into effect July 1 calls for a $250,000 a day fine if a statewide political candidate's account is inactivated and $25,000 a day if they remove an account of someone running for a local office.

The law will give Floridas attorney general authority to sue companies under the states Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act. It will also allow individual Floridians to sue social media companies for up to $100,000 if they feel theyve been treated unfairly.

The law targets social media platforms that have more than 100 million monthly worldwide users, which include online giants as Twitter and Facebook. But lawmakers carved out an exception for Disney and their apps by including that theme park owners wouldnt be subject to the law.

The law will require large social media companies to publish standards on how it decides to censor, deplatform, and shadow ban.

Even before the lawsuit was filed, experts questioned whether it would be enforceable.

Federal law prevents internet companies from being sued for removing posts and federal law trumps state law when there is a conflict.

Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act exempts websites from being sued for removing content deemed to be obscene, lewd, lascivious, filthy, excessively violent, harassing, or otherwise objectionable as long as the companies are acting in good faith.

By constraining digital services ability to fight bad actors online, this law threatens to make the Internet a safe space for criminals, miscreants, and foreign agents, putting Floridians at risk," Computer and Communications Industry Association President Matt Schruers said in a press release. "Gov. DeSantis is correct that this is a free speech issue: a digital service that declines to host harmful content is exercising its own First Amendment rights.
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP)  Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey on Thursday vetoed legislation to delay next years high-stakes requirement to hold back third graders who arent reading at grade level, a postponement lawmakers wanted after the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted classrooms.

The veto means that the promotion requirement will take effect at the end of the 2021-22 school year. The governor said it is hasty and premature to delay the requirement before education officials can review the newest test scores.

As a former teacher and even more so as governor, I believe early literacy is the gateway to all learning, Ivey said in a statement. The governor said she is asking the state superintendent to brief the public on spring test scores when available and for the Alabama Committee on Grade Level Reading to make recommendations regarding any future action.

Everyone agrees that the past 15 months of the COVID-19 pandemic have been hard on all Alabamians, including school personnel, students and parents. However, to establish any delay at all in the Alabama Literacy Act prior to analyzing the 2020-2021 summative assessment data for reading would be hasty and premature, she said.

Because Ivey did not sign the bill, which was approved by lawmakers on the last day of the legislative session, the bill died by what is known as a pocket veto.

Alabama lawmakers in 2019 approved several initiatives to try to boost reading scores. Beginning in the 2021-22 school year, third graders would be required to meet reading benchmarks before moving to the fourth grade. Students would have to make a minimum score on a reading assessment or demonstrate mastery of all third grade state reading standards as evidenced by a student reading portfolio.

The vetoed bill by Sen. Rodger Smitherman, a Democrat from Birmingham, would have pushed back the promotion requirement from the 2021-22 school year to the 2023-24 school year.

Supporters of a delay argue it will be unfair to force the requirement on students who were out of the traditional classroom for long stretches during the pandemic.

The Alabama Education Association, the state lobby representing public school employees, said Wednesday that teachers have called and emailed asking Ivey to sign the bill and approve the delay. The group said many Alabama teachers have not received the training required under the 2019 law.

Students also need more time to make up for learning loss. It is not feasible to implement the law as it currently stands while students and educators are trying to recover from this unprecedented school year, the AEA said in a statement on the legislation.

But opponents argue it will be a disservice to students to delay the promotion requirement  a part of a broader state program to boost literacy  or that the state should wait until the latest test scores are available to decide.

Republican Rep. Terri Collins of Decatur, who sponsored the original measure in 2019, had urged Ivey to veto the bill. The representative said she was very very pleased with Ivey's decision.

I am just so thrilled for our children, Collins said Thursday.

The Republican representative said lawmakers will have plenty of time to approve a delay in the 2022 legislative session if the test scores show large numbers of children might be held back.

Lets look at the scores, Collins said.
 Flash

A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson on Wednesday urged the U.S. side to mind its own business, ensure the security of its own people, and stop interfering in other countries' internal affairs by spreading false information.

Spokesperson Zhao Lijian made the remarks in response to a media query about the one-year anniversary of the death of George Floyd, an African-American, who was killed during an arrest in the U.S. city of Minneapolis on May 25, 2020, after a white police officer knelt on his neck for more than nine minutes.

Zhao said violent incidents such as shootings against ethnic minorities continue to make headlines in the United States.

According to reports, 64 people were shot dead by police during the 21 days of Floyd's trial, said Zhao, adding that most of these people were people of color.

Zhao said that according to a poll, the relationship between African-Americans and U.S. police has increasingly evolved into a profound and escalating crisis over the past year.

Seventy-two percent of African-American respondents believed that the situation of police shooting young African-Americans and other ethnic minorities has worsened, he added.

The death of George Floyd just reflected the tip of the iceberg of racism in the United States, said Zhao, adding that 60 percent of Americans believe that racism is a "very or extremely serious problem."

He urged the U.S. side to mind its own business, solve its own problems, provide security for its people and grant them the right to breathe freely and be free from fear and discrimination, instead of spreading lies about other countries, stirring up trouble everywhere and interfering in the internal affairs of other countries.
(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.)

Susan H. Kamei, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

(THE CONVERSATION) Imagine being forced from your home by the government, being imprisoned in a detention camp under armed guards and behind barbed wire  and then being required to join the military to fight for the nation that had locked up you and your family.

Thats what happened in a little-known chapter of U.S. history, in which many of those men went on to become American military heroes, some making the ultimate sacrifice. These soldiers, along with all other Japanese Americans who served in the U.S. armed forces during World War II, are being honored with a new U.S. Postal Service stamp on June 3, 2021.

From the time the first immigrants had arrived from Japan in the 1880s, people of Japanese ancestry in the U.S.  whether they were American citizens or not  faced decades of discrimination. The inequities stemmed from politicians promoting anti-immigrant sentiments, workers and businesses fearing economic competition, and tensions relating to Japans rise as a military power. The attack on Pearl Harbor whipped those prejudices into a frenzy of fear that swept the nation. After Dec. 7, 1941, anyone with a Japanese face, especially on the West Coast, had the face of the enemy.

A little more than two months later, on Feb. 19, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued Executive Order 9066, authorizing the forcible removal of about 120,000 people of Japanese ancestry from California, Oregon, Washington and parts of Arizona. Without any evidence of disloyalty or charges brought against them, these people  including my grandparents, parents and their families  were sent at gunpoint to hastily constructed detention facilities in desolate inland locations, where they spent the duration of the war.

Two-thirds of those incarcerated were Nisei  American citizens, born in the U.S. to Japanese immigrant parents. Their first-generation parents, called Issei, were barred by federal law from becoming citizens. Lacking any political clout or any effective allies, the community was powerless to fight against removal and imprisonment.

My forthcoming book, When Can We Go Back to America? Voices of Japanese American Incarceration during World War II, chronicles the stories of many who experienced this travesty of justice simply because of their race. I also tell of the roughly 33,000 Japanese Americans who served gallantly in the U.S. military during the war, fighting for a country that had unconstitutionally wronged them, their families and friends.

Segregated units

On Jan. 5, 1942, the War Department reclassified Japanese American men from being draft-eligible to enemy aliens not eligible for the draft. Yet as the war continued into 1943, the U.S. government put out a call seeking Japanese American volunteers to join the army. Thousands of them rushed to sign up, agreeing to serve in a segregated all-Nisei unit under the command of white officers.

Most of these volunteers were from Hawaii, where the Japanese American population had generally been allowed to stay in their homes. Future U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye, then a college student, was among the first to enlist.

On the mainland, about 1,500 Nisei men volunteered from the 10 euphemistically named relocation centers. Of these, 805 were accepted into service, having satisfied a loyalty test administered only to incarcerated Nisei. Some used their Japanese language skills in the Military Intelligence Service in the Pacific theater, while others formed the 100th Infantry Battalion, which fought in Europe, including as a unit attached to the Nisei-staffed 442nd Regimental Combat Team.

Going for broke

By the end of 1943, U.S. military leaders had grimly realized they were running short of manpower. The political decision to reclassify the Nisei as ineligible for the draft was being reconsidered, as commanders were hearing impressive reports of Nisei volunteers in their training. Mike Masaoka of the Japanese American Citizens League was also lobbying the military brass for the opportunity to show through a demonstration in blood that Japanese Americans were loyal Americans.

On Jan. 20, 1944, Secretary of War Henry Stimson announced the reinstatement of the draft for all Nisei men. Young Japanese American men were now considered loyal enough for compulsory military service. These draftees from the detention camps subsequently fought in some of the bloodiest battles in Europe.

The Nisei soldiers shared a spirit, and a motto, of Go for Broke, Hawaiian gambling slang for wagering everything on one roll of the dice. They wanted to give it all to defend their country and prove their patriotism.

The Japanese American soldiers helped drive the German army out of Italy and continued into eastern France, fighting nonstop for nearly two months in the Vosges Mountains. Their last-ditch effort rescued over 200 soldiers from Texas, who had been stranded behind German lines for nearly a week.

By the time the Nisei troops emerged from the Vosges, the number of dead and wounded outnumbered the living. One company had started out with 185 men, but ended up with only eight. This terrible casualty rate earned the 442nd the nickname of the Purple Heart Battalion.

Approximately 18,000 Nisei soldiers served in the combined 100th and 442nd, and collectively they and their units earned more than 14,000 awards, making it the most decorated military unit for its size and length of service in all of U.S. military history.

One top military official in the Pacific theater credited the Nisei MIS interpreters with saving tens of thousands of American lives and shortening the war by as much as two years.

Their legacy

The Nisei soldiers might have prevailed over the Nazis in Europe and the Japanese in the Pacific, but they came home to racial prejudice that had only intensified during the war. In 1981, MIS veteran Mits Usui recalled that as he returned to his hometown of Los Angeles, wearing his U.S. Army uniform, a bus rider called him a Damn J*p. Inouye described how after he was released from the hospital as a decorated second lieutenant with a hook replacing the arm he had lost in combat, a San Francisco barber refused to cut his J*p hair.

Vigilantes were terrorizing the veterans families so they would not return to their West Coast homes. Some were threatened with bodily harm. The government promoted stories of the Nisei soldiers valor as part of a pro-Japanese American publicity campaign to combat the terrorism.

For U.S. Sen. Spark Matsunaga, President Ronald Reagans signing of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988 was important recognition of the Niseis wartime sacrifices. That legislation officially apologized for the incarceration and provided token reparations payments to the surviving incarcerees. A decorated 100th/442nd member, Matsunaga recalled, We feel now that our efforts at the battlefront  giving up our lives and being wounded and maimed and disabled  all this was for a great cause, great ideals  to remove the one big blot on the Constitution that has been there for over 45 years.

In 2005, surviving Nisei veterans and their families launched a campaign to have the U.S. Postal Service issue a stamp honoring all Japanese Americans who served in World War II, including the women who served. The campaign has had support from bipartisan local, state and federal legislators, as well as from French citizens and officials who have not forgotten the Nisei heroes who freed their towns from German forces. The stamp is one of only a few in U.S. postal history to feature an Asian American or Pacific Islander.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/japanese-american-soldiers-in-world-war-ii-fought-the-axis-abroad-and-racial-prejudice-at-home-158512.
MILFORD  Like many locals, Bill Pursell has seen how Charles Island Natural Area Preserve has changed over the years.

Deer overpopulation, a fungal tree disease and storms have greatly reduced the forestation on the island, according to wildlife biologist Pete Piccone of the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Now, Pursell hopes to lead a tree comeback using trees native to the area to restore Charles Islands landscape.

When we talked to Piccone, he wanted to have native trees be planted on the island, Pursell said. The black cherry tree is a native tree, but we couldnt get one from Wisconsin, for example, because they are not the same tree as the ones that have grown locally.

Pursell said his grandfather bought a cottage in 1941 that has a view of the island. After talking to some family members, Bill Pursell decided to help reforest the 14-acre bird sanctuary, one tree at a time.

So far, Pursell and his family have donated 14 black cherry trees and 25 bare root trees. Piccone gave the OK for each of the plantings.

The citizen science and involvement are essential because we can work together to restore the Island, he said.

Pursell said the family planned on donating and planting trees twice a year.

In addition to the donations from the Pursell Family, several other species of local trees have been planted at Charles Island. The new trees include sassafras, basswood, red cedar, red maple, American sycamore and bitternut hickory.

Piccone said the trees had been selected because they are resistant to the armillaria fungal disease that had nearly wiped out Charles Islands trees. The planting areas also are being protected with deer fencing to protect the saplings as they are becoming established.

The tree-planting efforts are complicated by the fact that DEEP discourages people from walking out to Charles Island from May through September when local birds are nesting.

So we are a little limited in that respect as to when we can go out there and plant trees, Pursell said.

Piccone said the summer months are when the snowy egret and glossy ibis are nesting on the island. Both birds are of concern to wildlife biologists, he said.

We categorize the snowy egret as threatened and the ibis as concerned, Piccone said.

But the threatened species are another reason Piccone said DEEP wanted to see Charles Island reforested. The islands naturally wooded habitat makes it unusual and especially attractive to some species of birds, he said.

There are not many islands that developed like that, making it a very special habitat, he said. By not having Charles Island, theres a limited choice for them which is why its a very important nesting site.

Pursell said the reforestation would be a long-term project.

The state has been working on this for a while, he said. Because their budget is limited, and theyve got hundreds of projects spread all over the state, this may not be the highest priority.

But if restoring Charles Islands trees isnt a high priority for the state, local people have reacted enthusiastically to the idea on social media. Pursell said he has gotten so much positive feedback it has become a little overwhelming.

There were lots of people saying they would buy trees or would go out and plant trees, and we cant do that, he said. So we had to control expectations.

Despite discouraging people from heading out to the island on their own to plant trees, Pursell said he was looking for a way to help the public get involved, while still protecting the island.

Some ideas he has had include setting up a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit to control the reforestation, or simply starting an online fundraising page.

Im at the point where Im trying to figure out, not if the public gets involved, but how, he said.
LAFAYETTE, La. (AP)  A Louisiana man will serve a life sentence for the death of his girlfriends 3-year-old son, who was fatally beaten eight years ago.

The Acadiana Advocate reports that Landon C. Broussard, 29, accepted a plea deal Monday in the 2012 death of Julian Madera.

Broussard faced the possibility of the death penalty if he was convicted, according to the newspaper. His trial was scheduled for December. The Lafayette mans prison sentence comes with no possibility of parole, probation or sentence suspension.

In November 2012, Broussard  then 19  brought Maderas naked, lifeless body to his grandmothers house in Lafayette.

Broussard told police he found the boy unresponsive in a bathtub as he babysat while Maderas mother went to class. He also said a door fell on the 3-year-old the night before.

Police said the evidence didnt match Broussards story. An autopsy found that Madera died from blunt force trauma. It concluded that his body showed signs of long-term physical abuse and rape.

Prosecutors dropped rape charges pending resolution of the murder charge, according to the newspaper.

Laura D. Smith, the boys mother, pleaded guilty to cruelty of a juvenile for not stopping Broussards abuse. She served time in jail and was released.
LAWRENCE, Mass. (AP)  A Massachusetts man has been sentenced to up to 2 1/2 years in prison after pleading guilty to raping a developmentally disabled woman placed in his home by an adult foster care agency.

Joseph Gagnon, 54, of Haverhill, pleaded guilty in Lawrence Superior Court this week to rape, indecent assault and battery on a person over 14, and permitting abuse of a disabled person, The Eagle-Tribune reported Thursday.
MINNEAPOLIS (AP)  Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz says the state plans to offer up swag in an attempt to get more people vaccinated for the coronavirus.

Walz is planning a trip to a Minnesota state park Thursday to announce incentives that will include state park passes, fishing licenses and tickets to fairs and amusement parks. The first 100,000 people to get vaccinated between Memorial Day and the end of June will be eligible to pick prizes.
JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  Mississippis top elections official said Thursday that he will not ask the state Supreme Court to reconsider its ruling that invalidated the states initiative process and overturned a medical marijuana initiative that voters approved in November.

Secretary of State Michael Watson said that, instead, he wants Gov. Tate Reeves to call legislators into special session to revive both issues. Reeves has not said whether he will do so. Both men are Republicans.

In a May 14 ruling, a majority of justices said the medical marijuana proposal was not properly on the ballot because Mississippi's initiative process is outdated and unworkable.

Watson said in a statement Thursday that based on the 6-3 majority and the history that justices cited, he believes there's little chance they would reverse course.

Rather than giving a sense of false hope and spending taxpayer dollars to no avail, I strongly encourage the governor to reconvene the Legislature in an effort to quickly preserve the will of Mississippians on a few important issues, Watson said.

Watson said legislators should consider establishing a medical marijuana program. He also wants them to ensure two initiatives that voters approved in 2011 could withstand legal challenges. One restricts the government's use of the eminent domain process to take private property. The other requires voters to show government-issued photo identification.

Petitions for eminent domain and voter ID both used the initiative process that justices now say is invalid.

Mississippi requires initiative sponsors to gather one-fifth of their petition signatures from each congressional district. The process was put into the state constitution in the 1990s, when Mississippi had five districts. The state dropped to four districts after the 2000 census because of stagnant population, but the initiative process was not updated.

The state attorney general issued a legal opinion in 2009 saying initiative sponsors should collect signatures from the five old districts. In September 2019, then-Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann said the medical marijuana initiative qualified for the ballot.

Madison Mayor Mary Hawkins Butler sued the state days before the 2020 general election, arguing that the medical marijuana initiative was not properly on the ballot. Her attorneys argued that the constitution creates a mathematical impossibility: With four districts, more than one-fifth of the signatures must come from each. A majority of justices agreed in the May 14 ruling.

Butler opposed the medical marijuana measure because it would have limited cities' ability to regulate where such businesses may locate.

About 1.3 million people voted in Mississippi in November, and more than 766,000 of them voted in favor of the medical marijuana proposal, Initiative 65. Thats about 10,000 more residents than voted in November for then-President Donald Trump, who easily won in Mississippi despite losing his race for a second term.

More than 200 people gathered Tuesday near the state Capitol and the Supreme Court building to demand that Mississippi legalize medical marijuana. A majority of states already have a program.

In talking with voters around the state, many feel as though their voices are not being heard," Watson said Thursday. "We work for them and should do all we can to honor their decisions at the ballot box.

Two other top Republicans said last week that they want Reeves to call legislators back to the Capitol. Lt. Gov. Hosemann said legislators need to discuss medical marijuana. House Speaker Philip Gunn said he wants to update the initiative process.

____ Follow Emily Wagster Pettus on Twitter at http://twitter.com/EWagsterPettus.
LINCOLN, Neb. (AP)  A Nebraska county that was ordered to pay a $28.1 million legal judgment for sending six innocent people to prison will get $4 million from the state to help pay it off.

Gov. Pete Ricketts signed off on the payment on Tuesday, despite raising objections to a 2019 measure that allowed Gage County to impose a half-cent sales tax without voter approval to pay some of the debt. County supervisors have already raised their property tax levy to the maximum allowed under state law to help cover the cost.
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP)  People sexually abused as adults would have a chance to sue the perpetrators even if the usual deadline to bring a lawsuit had expired under a bill gaining momentum in New Yorks legislature.

The bill, called the Adult Survivors Act, would give abuse survivors a one-year window in which to bring lawsuits that would otherwise be barred by the state's statute of limitations.

A similar window created in 2019 for victims of childhood sexual abuse led to an avalanche of lawsuits over decades-old allegations of abuse against priests, teachers, Boy Scout leaders and others.

Supporters of doing the same thing for adults include Marissa Hoechstetter, 41, who said she's among more than 200 women who say they were sexually assaulted by former New York gynecologist Robert A. Hadden. Other Hadden accusers include Evelyn Yang, the wife of New York City mayoral candidate Andrew Yang.

Hadden surrendered his medical license in a 2016 plea deal with Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus R. Vance Jr. that didnt require him to serve any jail time.

Federal prosecutors charged Hadden in September with attacking girls and women for nearly two decades under the cover of medical examinations. Hadden pleaded not guilty. His attorney didn't immediately respond to request for comment Thursday. His trial is scheduled for next year.

Some of Hadden's accusers who were minors at the time of the alleged abuse have been able to pursue litigation in courts under New Yorks landmark Child Victims Act.

Hoechstetter said its time for New York to move past the arbitrary 18-year-old limit, and allow adults to have their day in court.

The legislature has already recognized that it takes time to come forward and report trauma, Hoechstetter said. I believe it is only fair to now include those who were assaulted over the age of 18... Were not asking for the state, for the Legislature to weigh in on the merit of our accusations. Were asking for access to the courts.

In 2019, New York extended the statute of limitations to 20 years for lawsuits over rape and certain other criminal sexual acts, up from the previous five years. But that legal change didnt apply retroactively to offenses that occurred years ago.

The Senate is set to vote on the Adult Survivors Act sometime next week, according to a spokesperson for Senate Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins. Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Cuomos office didnt immediately respond to request for comment Thursday.

Survivors and advocacy groups, including Safe Horizon and New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault, are lobbying on behalf of victims to urge the Legislature to pass the bill before it wraps up its session on Thursday, June 10.

More than 5,200 New Yorkers have filed lawsuits against abusers under the Child Victims Act, according to Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Brad Hoylman and Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal. Both Democrats are now sponsoring the Adult Survivors Act.

Those lawsuits have financially devastated several Roman Catholic dioceses in the state, which have filed for bankruptcy, as has the Boy Scouts of America, which had also faced a flood of suits.

It's unclear whether there's much organized opposition to the bill.

Historically, time limits exist for civil lawsuits because it becomes hard to hold a fair trial as time goes by. Memories fade. Evidence is lost. Witnesses die or become hard to find.

Hoechstetter said she hopes lawmakers will act.

People keep coming forward and its heartbreaking when I have to say to them: Theres nothing you can do,'" she said.

Hoechstetter first began to see Hadden  who was the uncle of her best friend from college  in her early thirties during her pregnancy with twins.

His behavior was increasingly bizarre, she said. Really invasive questions, really long breast exams, often nobody in the room.

She said he once licked her during an exam: I froze and I never went back.

Later on, she learned other women had accused him of sexual assault: At that point, I really knew I wasnt all alone."
MILTON, Ky. (AP)  An Ohio River bridge linking Kentucky and Indiana will be inspected next week, but no lane closures are expected.

The routine inspection of the Milton-Madison Bridge will take place in Trimble County beginning Tuesday, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet said. It is scheduled to be finished on June 4.
EATONVILLE, Fla. (AP)  A man and a child were shot outside a central Florida motel on Thursday morning, police said.

A car pulled up at the Hometown Suites in Eatonville just before 5 a.m. and someone got out of the vehicle and started shooting, police said.

Witnesses told police that the child was running when he was struck by a bullet, news outlets reported. The shooter got back into a silver Kia, which drove away.

Their conditions were not immediately available, and no additional details were released.

An investigation is underway.

Eatonville is in Orange County near Orlando.
One-China policy never to be played with

09:35, May 27, 2021 By Zhong Sheng ( People's Daily

The World Health Assembly (WHA), the highest decision-making body of the World Health Organization (WHO), on May 24 refused to include a proposal on Taiwans participation in its agenda, which fully indicated that adherence to the one-China principle is a universal consensus of the international community.

Photo taken in Brussels, Belgium on May 24, 2021 shows the live stream of the 74th World Health Assembly held at the World Health Organization (WHO) headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. (Xinhua/Zheng Huansong)

There is only one China in the world. The Government of the Peoples Republic of China is the only legal government representing the whole of China, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinas territory.

The one-China principle is a basic norm governing international relations and a universal consensus of the international community. The Taiwan regions participation in international organizations, including the WHA activities, must be handled in accordance with the one-China principle, and the UNGA Resolution 2758 and WHA Resolution 25.1 provided the legal basis for WHO to abide by the one-China principle.

Before 2016, China made special arrangements for the Taiwan region to participate in the WHA on the basis of the fact that both sides uphold the one-China principle. Since the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) came to power, it has placed its political agenda over the wellbeing of the people in the Taiwan region, obstinately adhered to the separatist position of Taiwan independence, and refused to admit the 1992 Consensus embodying the one-China principle. As a result, the political foundation for the Taiwan region to participate in the WHA has ceased to exist. The rejection of Taiwans participation in the WHA is solely a result of the DPP obstinately adhering to the separatist position of Taiwan independence.

It is ridiculous for the DPP authorities to portray Taiwan as a missing link in the worlds anti-pandemic efforts and instigate their so-called diplomatic allies to make Taiwan-related proposals.

The Chinese Central Government always attaches great importance to the health and well-being of Taiwan compatriots. Under this precondition of abiding by the one-China principle, it has made appropriate arrangements for the Taiwan regions participation in global health affairs.

To help the anti-pandemic fight on the island, Beijing has shared information with Taiwan 260 times on epidemic development and approved health experts in the Taiwan region to participate in 16 WHO technical activities. Besides, the WHO Secretariat briefed health experts in the Taiwan region three times on pandemic information, and the region has also joined the COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access.

It proves that Taiwan enjoys unimpeded channel and sound mechanism for information exchanges with the WHO and countries in the world. The missing link rhetoric is completely groundless.

As the COVID-19 pandemic is still rampant around the world, the 74th WHA shouldered huge responsibility in advancing global anti-pandemic cooperation. The DPP authorities and a few countries, going against the trend of history and making Taiwan-related proposals, are indeed pursuing their own political agenda at the sacrifice of the WHA and the international anti-pandemic cooperation.

To safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as the seriousness and authority of the UNGA and WHA resolutions, China would not agree with Taiwans participation in this years WHA. Ahead of the WHAs opening, more than 150 countries have expressed through diplomatic channels their support for Chinas decision. Over 80 countries have, through sending letters to the WHO, expressed their adherence to the one-China principle and their opposition to Taiwans participation in the WHA. This fully indicates that most of the countries in the world are upholding justice and a correct standing on questions related to Taiwan at the WHA.

Taiwan question bears on Chinas core interests, where there is not a single inch for compromise. Relevant countries had better not underestimate Chinas resolution and capability in safeguarding its core interests and unification. They should abandon their vain hope to meddle in Chinas domestic affairs under the excuse of Taiwan question.

(Zhong Sheng is a pen name often used by Peoples Daily to express its views on foreign policy.)

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
 Flash

A symposium on the future of Sino-Portuguese and Sino-European cooperation was held on May 25 at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) in Beijing. The meeting focused on how to deepen Sino-Portuguese and Sino-European cooperation and jointly promote the green development of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

At the opening ceremony, Vice President of CASS Wang Linggui noted that Portugal was the first country in the European Union to formally establish a "blue partnership" with China, stressing that China-Portugal cooperation is an important part of China-EU cooperation.

"CASS, a leading Chinese think tank, is ready to work with the University of Coimbra (UC) of Portugal to promote cultural cooperation and people-to-people exchanges between China and Portugal, and contribute to the progress of China-Portugal and China-Europe relations," Wang said.

Zhao Bentang, Chinese ambassador to Portugal, highlighted via video link that green development figures prominently in the BRI, and pointed out that "there is a great potential for collaboration in addressing climate change and promoting green development between China, Portugal and Europe at large."

China is willing to work with Portugal and Europe to further align their development strategies and deepen green economy cooperation to jointly promote more sustainable and higher-quality development, Zhao added.

Jose Augusto Duarte, Portugal's ambassador to China, said in his video speech that China-Portugal relations are not only based on economic and trade cooperation, but also on music, scientific and cultural exchanges. He also proposed that mutual understanding should be strengthened to tackle some common challenges like climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic.

After the opening ceremony, two panel discussions were held to pool wisdom on cultural exchanges, economic and trade cooperation, the settlement of trade disputes, and green and digital collaboration.

The participants of the discussions included experts, professors and researchers from China's Ministry of Commerce, the UC and other institutes of CASS.

At the closing ceremony, Feng Zhongping, director of the Institute of European studies of CASS, said this symposium will help to enhance mutual understanding between China and Portugal, and CASS is optimistic about the prospects of China-Europe relations.

This symposium was co-hosted by the Bureau of International Cooperation of CASS, the UC and the Institute of European Studies of CASS, and organized by the CASS-UC Center for China Studies.
MARION, Ky. (AP)  Kentucky State Police are seeking information on a 40-year-old cold case involving a missing man, officials said.

Anyone with new information in the disappearance of Edward Tidwell should contact Kentucky State Police Detective Brian Graves, the agency said Wednesday in a statement.

Tidwell, who was unemployed, was last seen in Marion in 1981, police said. He told his wife he was going to see a man in Sturgis about a job. He drove away in a yellow 1974 Chevrolet Bel Air with a cracked windshield and rust spots in the front.

Tidwell had experience working as a river deckhand for several businesses, police said.
LAKE STEVENS, Wash. (AP)  Authorities in Washington state have identified a man police believe fatally shot his roommate this week as a longtime corrections officer at Monroe Correctional Complex.

Emmanuel Perez, 44, was arrested Monday after police said he ran from the scene of a shooting at an apartment complex in Lake Stevens, about 8 miles (12 kilometers) northeast of Everett, The Daily Herald reported Tuesday.

Perez was arrested on a domestic violence murder charge and booked into the Snohomish County Jail. Bail was set Tuesday at $500,000. Deputy prosecutor Elise Deschenes originally asked for bail to be set at $1 million. His attorney, John Chase, said Perez would show up to his next court hearing, noting that he was a father of four and military veteran.

Chase said Perez worked at the prison for about 14 years. Court records confirm he was employed at the facility as early as 2008. The Washington state Department of Corrections said Tuesday they could not provide further details about his employment history.

Detective Steve Warbis said in a written report that Perez and his 35-year-old roommate were fighting Monday around 9 a.m. when witnesses heard gunshots. Warbis said Perez left the apartment and walked toward the parking lot as the other man followed him, wearing only a bathrobe, and asking How could you do this to me?

Witnesses later told police the suspect went around the front of a vehicle and fired about three shots at the man, who died at the scene. The Snohomish County medical examiners office did not identify the man.

Witnesses reported seeing a man in a plaid coat, with a black-and-silver handgun running from the scene.

The Lake Stevens Police Department said they arrested Perez that night, who reportedly told officers he had a gun on him but was not sure which pocket. Authorities said officers found a .40-caliber pistol, drugs and other drug paraphernalia.
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  A man who produced a weapon while talking to police officers in Tennessee has been shot, authorities said.

Clarksville Police officers responded early Thursday to a call and found the man in the backyard of a residence, a statement from the agency said. Officers spoke to the man with the goal of deescalating the situation, but an officer fired when the man produced a weapon, the statement said.
VALETTA, Malta (AP)  A proposal to decriminalize abortion in Malta has stirred up a polarized debate on an issue long considered taboo in the country with the strictest abortion laws in the European Union.

Independent lawmaker Marlene Farrugia caught many by surprise this month when she presented a bill in Parliament calling for the removal of paragraphs in the criminal code that make it a crime punishable by up to three years in prison to have an abortion or assist a woman in having one.

Though the law is rarely enforced  the Home Affairs Ministry says the last person jailed for abortion was in 1980  backers argue it acts as a deterrent. Farrugia disagrees, saying that the fear of reprisal and punishment prevents women from seeking counselling and help in Malta, where surveys show public opinion remains firmly against abortion.

Decriminalizing abortion is not the same as promoting it, Farrugia told The Associated Press. By criminalizing women, stigmatizing the subject of abortion and keeping this discussion a taboo, we are not saving lives and we are not helping the cause of making abortion obsolete.

The Catholic island nation has liberalized some laws in recent years, legalizing divorce 10 years ago and same-sex marriage in 2017.

The bill is unlikely to advance through Parliament, where one major party has declared itself against decriminalization and the other implied it wants a debate in society rather than a vote in Parliament. But supporters say it has sparked a conversation that is long overdue.

The people have woken up and many more have come out of the woodwork to declare themselves openly pro-choice, said Isabel Stabile, of abortion rights activist group Doctors for Choice.

While Farrugia insists her bill wouldnt legalize abortion, just remove the penalties for it, opponents disagree.

We view the decriminalization of abortion as a smokescreen to introduce abortion right up until birth in Malta, said Miriam Sciberras, Chairperson of the anti-abortion group, the Life Network Foundation Malta.

If we really care about women, we first let them be born, Sciberras said. The law is there for a reason. It is there to protect us all, especially the vulnerable.

Abortion has been legalized in nearly all EU countries, though Poland this year tightened its abortion laws following a constitutional court ruling. The only exceptions allowed under Polish law are when the womans life or health is at risk or if a pregnancy results from rape or incest. In Malta, the law doesnt allow for any exceptions, but in practice doctors apply the moral principle of double effect, whereby the death of a fetus is viewed as an unintended consequence of efforts to save a woman's life, said Andrea Dibben, of the Women Rights Foundation in Malta. She added that this principle cannot always be applied and is insufficient.

Maltas Archbishop, Charles Scicluna, has also weighed in on the discussion and delivered a homily in what was an indirect response to the notion of decriminalizing abortion.

A mothers womb is dear and holy, it is there that human life grows, he said on May 13. Let us pray for the womb to remain a place of life, not a place where killing takes place.

Doctors for Choice estimates that at least 300 women in Malta have abortions every year, either by traveling to countries where abortion is legal, including Britain, Italy or the Netherlands, or by obtaining abortion pills.

One woman, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of being prosecuted, told the AP she got in touch with an international organization that helped her obtain abortion pills. She was worried about any potential side effects from the pills but said she wouldnt have sought medical help right away had she needed it, out of the fear of being caught.

If something goes wrong, youre stuck, she said. People should be able to find the support they need in the country. Not everyone has the financial means to travel abroad.

Farrugia, who describes herself as pro-life, says she will continue to urge women "to use prevention and also not to terminate even if they find themselves burdened by an unwanted pregnancy.

However, should they decide to terminate after going through support and counselling, then abortion needs to be highly regulated and safe." she added. "Ultimately, no woman should be forced to carry on with a pregnancy she does not want.
RENO, Nev. (AP)  A Reno man has pleaded guilty to possessing and selling hundreds of counterfeit oxycodone pills containing the powerful and dangerous synthetic opioid fentanyl, Nevada's top federal prosecutor said Wednesday.

Octavio Mendoza Jr., 24, faces a sentence of at least five years in prison, under a plea agreement that avoided trial.
SEATTLE (AP)  Seattles interim police chief has demoted the assistant chief who was in charge when riot-gear clad officers fired tear gas blast balls into a crowd of demonstrators on Capitol Hill in June after an officers tug of war with a protester over an umbrella.

Interim Chief Adrian Diazs decision means the assistant chief who was the incident commander will be returned to a captains rank, the Seattle Times reported. Diazs decision was laid out in a letter Wednesday to City Councilmember Lisa Herbold and posted on the departments website. The assistant chief was not named.
WASHINGTON (AP)  What started as a pragmatic effort to boost scientific research and development has morphed into sweeping Senate bill aimed at making the U.S. more competitive with China and other countries, including $50 billion in emergency funds to shore up domestic computer chip manufacturing.

The American Innovation and Competition Act is key to President Joe Bidens infrastructure plans and was headed toward final passage as debate dragged into early Friday morning. Its also a test of whether the split 50-50 Senate can accomplish bipartisan achievements at a time when theres pressure on Democrats to change the rules to push past obstruction and gridlock.

Senators slogged through days of debates and amendments, but proceedings came to a standstill late Thursday. One Republican, Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, protested the rush to finish and insisted on more changes to the sprawling package. A few other Republicans joined him.

By midnight senators huddled in the chamber to discuss next steps. Passage was still expected, but debate dragged into early Friday.

Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., the Commerce Committee chairwoman managing the action for Democrats, reminded colleagues that the bill has been through lengthy committee hearings with input and changes from all sides.

I actually think we have gotten more mindshare with people about why this is important, right, because we had an open debate process, she said earlier in the week.

The emerging final product has enjoyed broad, bipartisan support and would be one of the more comprehensive investments in U.S. research and development in recent years as the country tries to bolster and rebuild home-state industries that have shifted overseas during the era of globalization.

A top Republican author, Sen. Todd Young of Indiana, characterized his underlying proposal  the Endless Frontier Act he co-authored with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer  as part of the countrys history of innovation, like the moon landing or launch of the internet, that Washington needs to foster if America is to remain competitive.

Its not about beating China, Young said in a speech Thursday. He said its about rising to the challenge posed by China to be a better version of ourselves.

Biden had included elements of the legislation as part of his big infrastructure plan, the American Jobs Act, making a similar case that the U.S. needs to increase its investments to stay competitive with rivals, particularly China.

During a virtual meeting with CEOs last month over the global computer chip shortage that has been disrupting supplies and sales of everyday goods -- from cellphones to new cars  Biden explained his plan to build the infrastructure of today.

But the bill became weighted down by the sheer scope of the effort. Actually a collection of bills, it swelled to more than 2,400 pages and a final package of some three dozen amendments from senators of both parties submitted late Thursday caused the opponents to hit the brakes.

Johnson stacked up the bill at his desk bemoaning the towering size, even as he said the legislative process to bring the bill to this point had been better than most over the past decade.

We havent had time to read this  no one has, said Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., joining Johnsons protest.

The last round of amendments was shelved by the objection. But Johnson seized the floor to push other priorities, including his concerns over another topic  illegal immigration and his interest in secure fencing along the southern border with Mexico.

Votes on passage were expected early Friday.

The centerpiece of the bill is a $50 billion emergency allotment to the Commerce Department to stand up semiconductor development and manufacturing through research and development and incentive programs previously authorized by Congress. They focus on the military, automakers and other critical industries reliant on computer chips.

The U.S. once manufactured far more chips than today, which some senators said put the U.S. at risk of fluctuations in the global supply chain, as happened over the past year with shortages.

The Endless Frontier provision would authorize funding for the National Science Foundation, including the establishment of a Directorate for Technology and Innovation, as well as research and development funds and scholarships for students focused on science, technology, engineering and math programs.

Senators have tried to strike a balance in raising awareness about Chinas growing influence without fanning divisive anti-Asian rhetoric, mindful that hate crimes against Asian Americans have spiked during the coronavirus pandemic.

Other measures spell out national security concerns and target money laundering schemes or cyberattacks by entities on behalf of the government of China. There are also buy America provisions for infrastructure projects in the U.S.

At the same time, senators agreed to tack on amendments showing shifting attitudes over Chinas handling of the COVID-19 outbreak. One would prevent federal funds for the Wuhan Institute of Virology amid fresh investigation into the origins of the virus and possible connections to the labs research. The city registered some of the first virus cases.

Taken together, the innovation act has been a priority for Schumer, the Democratic leader who has long advocated a tougher approach to China. He and Young struck up a conversation about teaming up on a bill during workouts at the Senate gym, lawmakers said.

It's unclear whether the measure would find support in the Democratic-led House.
SPRING HILL, Fla. (AP)  Investigators in Florida have arrested a 53-year-old sex offender, a fugitive from California who had been living under a false identity for 21 years.

The Hernando County Sheriffs Office announced that it received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children on Tuesday about a sex offender who was possibly living in Spring Hill.

Sheriff's officials immediately began investigating and learned that David Swenson, 53, was an absconded sex offender" from California. He had active warrants there for failing to register as a sex offender in 2000.

Detectives also learned that Swenson was living with his wife under the name Kevin Crowley, the sheriff's statement said. They used various databases to discover that he had recently used the name Kevin Crowley to obtain a fishing license. The two vehicles, a camper, and a boat at his home in Spring Hill were all registered to Crowley's wife, the statement said.

Sheriff's deputies had a previous encounter with the man, when they were called to the home in 2009, and found him hiding in the attic. He provided them with his false name, Crowley, and was issued a notice to appear in court, but the case was dropped due to a pre-trial diversion.

Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles records show that Swenson never obtained a drivers license or ID card under his own name or the name of Kevin Crowley. He also never registered as a sex offender in Florida, sheriff's officials said.

Detectives from the agency went to the home in Spring Hill and spoke to the man's wife. She told them that her husband was riding his bicycle in the neighborhood, the post said. They searched, but weren't able to locate him. A sheriff's aviation unit spotted him a short time later walking on a bike trail near a park.

That's when detectives made contact with him. The man confirmed his identity as David Swenson and was taken into custody, the report said.

During an interview, he told investigators he wanted to end his time on the run. He told them he had been in Spring Hill for 21 years, after leaving Northern California.

California's sex offender registry shows Swenson was convicted of forcible rape in Santa Clara County in 1989 and was released from prison in 1993.

He's now charged in Florida with failure to register as a sex offender and is being held without bond. Court records did not indicate whether he has an attorney.
PHOENIX (AP)  A suspect has been arrested in two fatal stabbings last year in Phoenix, according to authorities.

Phoenix police said 48-year-old Major McKenzie was taken into custody Tuesday on suspicion of two counts of second-degree murder. Hes jailed on a $2.5 million bond.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP)  Vandals spray-painted a swastika and Jews are guilty" on a wall at the Florida Holocaust Museum in St. Petersburg, police said Thursday.

Patrol officers spotted the graffiti around 4 a.m., the St. Petersburg Police Department said.
DAMASCUS, Syria (AP)  Syrian President Bashar Assad was re-elected in a landslide, officials said Thursday, ushering in a fourth seven-year term in the war-torn country following an election described as illegitimate and a sham by the West and his opposition.

Assads win was not in doubt, in an election where officials said 18 million were eligible to vote. But in the country ravaged by the 10-year-old conflict, areas controlled by rebels or Kurdish-led troops did not hold the vote. At least 8 million, mostly displaced, live in those areas in northwest and northeast Syria. Over 5 million refugees  mostly living in neighboring countries  have largely refrained from casting their ballots.

U.S. and European officials have also questioned the legitimacy of the election, saying it violates UN resolutions in place to resolve the conflict, lacks any international monitoring, and is unrepresentative of all Syrians.

Syrias parliament speaker, Hammoud Sabbagh, announced the final results from Wednesdays vote. He said Assad garnered 95.1% of the votes. He said turnout stood at 78.6% of the voters, in an election that lasted for 17 hours on Wednesday with no independent monitors.

Assad was facing symbolic competition from two candidates a former minister and a former opposition figure.

Assads victory comes as the country is still devastated by the conflict. Fighting has subsided but the war is not over. An economic crisis is getting worse in a country where over 80% of the population lives below the poverty line and the local currency is in a free fall.

Assad, close associates and government officials are facing widening Western sanctions, added to already existing ones that have escalated as the war unfolded. European and U.S. governments blame Assad and his aides most of the wars atrocities.

Damascus erupted in celebrations, with gunfire and fireworks lighting the night sky. Thousands gathered in major squares in Damascus, and the coastal city of Tartus, dancing while waving flags and pictures of Assad. They chanted: With our soul, blood, we defend you Bashar, and We only choose three: God, Syria and Bashar.

A large stage was set in the capitals Omayyad Square, with speakers blaring national songs. One singer appeared on a stage set up in a Tartus square, dressed in the flag of Syria. Almost no one was wearing a face mask, though Syria is facing a surge of coronavirus cases.

The election is likely to offer little change to conditions in Syria. While Assad and his allies, Russia and Iran, may be seeking a new seal of legitimacy for the president in office since 2000, his re-election is likely to deepen the rift with the West, driving him closer to Russian and Iranian backers as well as China.
GENEVA (AP)  The top U.N. human rights body on Thursday passed a resolution aimed to intensify scrutiny of Israel's treatment of Palestinians, after the U.N. rights chief said Israeli forces may have committed war crimes and faulted the militant group Hamas for violations of international law in their 11-day war this month.

The 24-9 vote, with 14 abstentions, capped a special Human Rights Council session on the rights situation faced by Palestinians. The session and the resolution were arranged by Organization of Islamic Cooperation countries, which have strongly supported Palestinians in their struggles with Israel.

The resolution, which was denounced by Israel, calls for the creation of a permanent Commission of Inquiry  the most potent tool at the council's disposal  to monitor and report on rights violations in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank. It would be the first such COI with an ongoing mandate.

The commission is also to investigate all underlying root causes of recurrent tensions, instability and protraction of conflict including discrimination and repression, according to the text. Amid signs that the resolution would pass, its authors added more teeth to its language with a late revision on Wednesday.

The revised text calls on states to refrain from transferring arms  the recipients were not specified  when they asses a clear risk that such weapons might be used to commit serious violations of human rights or humanitarian law. That appeared aimed to countries that ship weapons to Israel.

Todays shameful decision is yet another example of the U.N. Human Rights Councils blatant anti-Israel obsession," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement. This travesty makes a mockery of international law and encourages terrorists worldwide.

The Palestinian Authority welcomed the resolution, saying it amounted to international recognition of Israel's systemic oppression and discrimination against the Palestinian people.

This reality of apartheid and impunity can no longer be ignored, it added.

China and Russia were among those voting in favor. Several Western and African countries voted no.

British ambassador Simon Manley said the commissions overly expansive mandate ... risks hardening positions on both sides, and Austrian ambassador, Elisabeth Tichy-Fisslberger, said the session "continues the regrettable practice of singling out Israel for criticism in the Human Rights Council.

Russian envoy Olga Vorontsova said the resolution has the goal of establishing all of the facts behind all alleged violations in the latest period. Venezuelan Ambassador Hector Constant Rosales said a resolution condemning the genocidal action of the Israeli government was urgently needed.

Israel had called on friendly countries to oppose the meeting, and the United States  while not a member of the 47-member state body  did not take part, even in its status as an observer state. An array of countries denounced the latest violence and urged efforts to address the roots of the Mideast conflict.

After the vote, the U.S. mission in Geneva said the United States deeply regrets the move to create an open-ended Commission of Inquiry. It said some unspecified member states of the council have chosen to engage in a distraction that adds nothing to ongoing diplomatic and humanitarian efforts in the region.

U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet, who spoke early in the session, called on Israel to allow an independent probe of military actions in the latest spasm of deadly violence, which left devastation and death in the Gaza Strip before a cease-fire last week.

The 11-day war killed at least 248 in Gaza, including 66 children and 39 women. In Israel, 12 people also died, including two children.

Air strikes in such densely populated areas resulted in a high level of civilian fatalities and injuries, as well as the widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure," Bachelet said.

Such attacks may constitute war crimes, she added, if deemed to be indiscriminate and disproportionate in their impact on civilians. Bachelet urged Israel to ensure accountability, as required under international law in such cases, including through "impartial, independent investigations" of actions in the escalation.

Bachelet said Hamas indiscriminate rocket fire during the conflict was also a clear violation of the rules of war, and she derided the group's tactics that included locating military assets in densely populated civilian areas, and firing rockets from them.

"These rockets are indiscriminate and fail to distinguish between military and civilian objects, and their use, thereby, constitutes a clear violation of international humanitarian law, Bachelet said. However, the actions of one party do not absolve the other from its obligations under international law.

She cautioned violence could erupt again unless the root causes are addressed.

The day-long virtual debate involved personal accounts from Palestinians  like one of a young woman journalist from the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood in east Jerusalem, an early flashpoint that triggered the violence  as well as the statements from the councils 47 member states and also observer states.

Israel  backed at times by the United States  has long accused the council of anti-Israel bias and has generally refused to cooperate with its investigators.

Israeli Ambassador Meirav Eilon Shahar said Hamas  designated a terrorist organization by the U.S. and its allies  had fired 4,400 rockets at Israeli civilians from from Palestinian homes, hospitals, and schools. Each one of these rockets constitutes a war crime.

What would you do if rockets were fired at Dublin, Paris, or Madrid, she asked.

Riad al-Maliki, the Palestinian foreign minister, sought to highlight years of suffering by Palestinians in the lands controlled or occupied by Israel.

"The Israeli war machinery and terrorism of its settlers continue to target our children who face murder, arrest and displacement, deprived of a future in which they can live in peace and security, al-Maliki said.
OKLAHOMA CITY (AP)  As the U.S. marks 100 years since one of its most shameful historical chapters, researchers, including descendants of Black victims of the Tulsa Race Massacre, are preparing to resume a search for remains believed to have been hastily buried in mass graves.

Although many details about the two terrifying days in 1921 eventually came to light after decades of shared silence by perpetrators, victims and their progeny, some basic facts remain unknown, including the true death toll and the names of many members of the city's once thriving Black community who died at the hands of a white mob.

The state declared the death toll to be only 36 people, including 12 who were white. But for various reasons, including contemporaneous news reports, witness accounts and looser standards for tracking deaths, most historians who have studied the event estimate it to be between 75 and 300.

Most Black victims were buried in unmarked graves, and efforts are ongoing to locate their remains for proper burial and recognition.

Most of these people were just thrown away, their bodies were buried while their loved ones were being held by armed guards in internment camps, said Scott Ellsworth, a University of Michigan professor of Afroamerican and African studies who is consulting on the search and is among the foremost experts on the massacre, which is sometimes referred to as a riot.

After a white mob descended on the Black section of Tulsa, Greenwood, and burned more than 1,000 homes, looted hundreds of others and destroyed its thriving business district, more than 4,000 Black people were forcibly interned for several days at a fairground and other sites during a period of martial law.

Victims' bodies  some burned beyond recognition  were unceremoniously buried during that time, with interned families unable to claim their loved ones' remains or not even aware they had died, according to the 2001 findings of a state commission that explored the massacre.

After the initial shock about the massacre wore off, it receded from the publics consciousness.

Neither white residents, out of embarrassment, nor Black residents, out of fear, openly discussed it for decades, according to Bob Blackburn, a retired director of the Oklahoma Historical Society who served as chairman of the panel, which was then known as the Tulsa Race Riot Commission.

But rumors of mass graves persisted, and the commission was formed in 1997 to try to give a fuller account of what happened. It announced in January 2000 that a search would be conducted for victims' remains. However, it reversed course a few months later and decided against excavating any of the sites where bodies were thought or rumored to be buried  a decision Ellsworth thinks was driven by fear of the negative publicity it could generate.

But Tulsa's current mayor, G.T. Bynum, announced in 2018 that the search would happen, after all, at Oaklawn and Rolling Oaks cemeteries and The Canes, a homeless encampment next to a city park. Ground scans at the sites showed anomalies suggesting they could be mass graves.

Bynum, who is white, said last summer that he felt it was the right thing to do.

You had generations of people who grew up in this community ... and never heard about it, he said. I feel a tremendous responsibility as mayor to try and find these folks. Thats a basic thing that a city government should do for people.

The search got underway last year, and researchers in October found at least 12 sets of remains in coffins at Oaklawn Cemetery, where most of the Black victims whose deaths were confirmed had been buried in unmarked graves. They looked at the remains inside the coffins but covered them back up for further study at a later date and haven't yet confirmed they are those of massacre victims.

They'll resume their search on June 1 in that same section of Oaklawn Cemetery, said the state archaeologist, Kary Stackelbeck.

If the boundaries we estimate are accurate, what we excavated in October is maybe a third or a quarter of that overall size, she told The Associated Press. It is not unreasonable for us to develop an estimate of around 30 total (bodies) in the overall mass grave, and thats a conservative estimate.

Most of the confirmed Black victims were recorded as having been buried at Oaklawn Cemetery, and any mass graves found during the eventual search at Rolling Oaks Cemetery could confirm witness accounts of bodies being buried there, said Phoebe Stubblefield, a forensic anthropologist on the search team.

(Rolling Oaks) is a critical area to examine because any remains there, if we can get at the identities, will speak to the event as a massacre, Stubblefield said.

The area around The Canes is where people reportedly saw remains being prepared for burial, Ellsworth said, estimating there could be 50 to 60 bodies there.

Opinions differ about what to do with any remains that are found. By law, any that are identified would have to be turned over to that person's descendants to determine how and where to re-inter them, said Ellsworth.

For those that remain unidentified, (there) should be a memorial akin to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, he said.

Chief Egunwale Amusan, a member of Tulsas 1921 Graves Public Oversight Committee whose aunt, Mary Beard, disappeared during the violence and is believed to have been killed, said he thinks any victim remains should be reburied in a cemetery other than Oaklawn, where white people thought to have taken part in the atrocity were also buried.

One thing you dont do is inter those bodies of people who were killed in the massacre with the people who committed this atrocity, Amusan said. Jews would never allow themselves to be placed in the same cemetery Hitler is interred in. That would never happen.

Stubblefield, whose aunt and uncle survived the violence but had their home burned, said Oaklawn is well maintained and was used by Black and white people during its long history. She said it's true that the massacre victims were discarded and were not honored, but she views the cemetery as a place for all Tulsans.

Im content to have the Greenwood heroes reinterred there ... properly honored with identification as a confirmed victim of the violence, she said.

The researchers have said getting state approval to exhume the remains and rebury them elsewhere could delay the project by another year, but that doesn't deter Amusan.

We waited 100 years. Whats another year? We get one shot to do this right, he said.

___

Find APs full coverage of the centennial of the Tulsa Race Massacre: https://apnews.com/hub/tulsa-race-massacre
LANSING, Mich. (AP)  Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's reelection campaign  not a nonprofit fund  will pay for her flights to and from Florida, where she visited her ailing father in March.

The about-face Thursday came in a letter to a Republican lawmaker who had asked questions about the pandemic trip. A lawyer for the governor's campaign and the fund said he learned from Detroit-based PVS Chemicals, which supplied the private jet, that it could not accept the $27,521 payment except from a candidate committee because it is not authorized to operate charter flights. The Detroit Free Press had first reported last week that the Federal Aviation Administration was looking into the matter.

In a letter to House Oversight Committee Chairman Steve Johnson, Christopher Trebilcock said PVS and the fund, Michigan Transition 2019, learned of a miscommunication between themselves over the source of payment due to media reports.

He said Whitmer flew private, instead of commercial, for security reasons  citing death threats and noting an alleged plot to kidnap her over her COVID-19 restrictions. Her state security detail accompanied her. Their expenses will be covered by the campaign, reducing the burden on taxpayers, he said.

But for her elected office, the governor would not have incurred the security expenses for travel to see her ailing father on short notice, Trebilcock said.

He also disclosed that Whitmer's two daughters were on the return flight after helping manage their grandfather's health issues for several weeks while attending college and high school remotely. The governor will reimburse her committee for the cost of a first-class commercial airline ticket for herself and her daughters. Her office had previously said she would pay $855 for her flight.

The business jet is registered to Air Eagle, whose agent is John Nicholson, executive vice president of PVS, according to state records. An aide to Whitmer contacted PVS on or around March 8 to ask if it had a plane to fly her to Florida, according to the letter. She left March 12 and returned March 15.

The campaign also paid $22,670 for the governor's Jan. 19-21 trip to and from Washington, D.C., for President Joe Biden's inauguration, Trebilcock said. The private plate was operated by New Hudson-based Solomon Plumbing Co.

We did this to set the record straight and provide answers to Rep. Johnsons questions, campaign spokesman Mark Fisk said.

The GOP has criticized Whitmer for visiting her father after restricting visits to nursing homes and hospitals to help curb the coronavirus, keeping her travel secret until it leaked more than a month later and providing few details. Her administration eased visitation rules for residential care facilities 10 days before her trip.

She has noted no travel restrictions were in place and that she went before COVID-19 positivity rates surged above single digits.

Like a lot of children of parents who have health issues or relatives who have health issues, I showed up when I was needed, she said May 12, saying she also did work as governor while there.

Weeks after her return, she expressed concern about travel to Florida as infections soared in Michigan.

Last week, a conservative group filed a complaint with the IRS alleging that Whitmers travel fell outside the purpose of the tax-exempt social welfare organization, which was initially formed for her inauguration events and is used in part to lessen the burdens of government.

Gov. Whitmer is desperately reversing course as she stares down potential federal investigations, and her attorneys letter only raises new questions over the legality of a campaign committee paying for the personal expenses of an individual, said Eric Ventimiglia, executive director of Michigan Rising Action.

___

Follow David Egger at https://twitter.com/DavidEggert00
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  Wisconsin public schools would receive an additional $150 million in funding over two years under a Republican budget plan that the Legislature's budget committee approved Thursday.

That is less than 10% of the $1.6 billion Democratic Gov. Tony Evers proposed be spent on K-12 schools over the next two years. It is also about $200 million short of what would be needed to ensure that Wisconsin can keep $1.5 billion in federal funding under the coronavirus relief bill President Joe Biden signed in March.

Republicans defended their plan by saying they expect changes in the matching requirements to keep the federal money. In total, Wisconsin stands to receive $2.6 billion in federal coronavirus relief money.

It is hard to talk about how were going to fund our schools and ignore the fact that we have so much federal funding coming into the state, Republican Rep. Jessie Rodriguez said. It is part of the conversation.

The American Rescue Plan requires the state to spend the same proportion on K-12 schools and higher education in the upcoming fiscal year as was spent from 2016 through 2018. For K-12 schools, that means the state would have to spend $387 million more over the next two years, according to the nonpartisan Legislative Fiscal Bureau.

When asked whether the Republican spending plan would meet the federal requirements, budget committee co-chair Rep. Mark Born said that issue was still being examined and would be dealt with along the way. He said he only recently became aware of the issue, even though it was raised in an April 8 memo from the fiscal bureau.

Republican Sen. Howard Marklein, the budget committee co-chair, said he believed Congress would change the requirements for states to meet the matching requirement.

Im aware of the risk, we considered it, well talk about it as we go through, Marklein said. I believe the risk is manageable.

Counting on figuring out the issue later or the federal government changing its requirements is far too risky, said Democratic Rep. Evan Goyke.

Evers called for $1.6 billion in new education funding over two years and urged Republicans on the budget committee to accept his plan.

By cutting or keeping spending levels flat, you continue to jeopardize Wisconsins short-term economic recovery and long-term economic prospects by not investing in our future, Evers wrote to Republicans ahead of Thursday's meeting.

The majority of the federal funding coming to the state must be directed to schools based on how many low-income students they have. However, there was about $154 million available for the state to spend as it wishes.

Under the Republican plan, about $114 million would be distributed only to districts that were open for in-person instruction for at least half of this school year.

We want to reward those districts that were open," said Republican Sen. Duey Stroebel.

The state education department wanted to spend the money differently, with all schools receiving at least $600,000. It would not have penalized schools for not holding in-person classes.

Democrats decried giving more to schools that opened, saying Republicans were creating winners and losers based on decisions made with the intent of protecting students and staff from the virus.

The state's two largest school districts, Milwaukee and Madison, would not qualify for any of that money because they did not open for in-person instruction until midway through the second semester. Both cities are Democratic strongholds.

The Republican plan also would reimburse 30% of special education costs in the second year of the budget, up from 28.2% under current law. The Evers budget would increase reimbursement to 45% in the first year and 50% in the second.

Democrats said the GOP funding level wouldn't be nearly enough.

The full Legislature would have to approve the budget being worked on by the committee before it would go to Evers, who could make changes with his broad veto power.

___

This story was updated to correct that the amount of federal money at risk of being lost is $1.5 billion, not $2.2 billion.
State lawmakers are close to passing sweeping legislation to overhaul the states power grid following the disastrous and deadly winter storm in February that left more than 4.8 million homes and businesses without electricity for days. More than 100 people died. As time runs out in the legislative session, the Texas House and Senate will need to hammer out differences between the two chambers power grid proposals and quickly move the legislation in the coming days. The Tribune will update this post until the session ends.

Weatherizing the grid: Power plants may be required to make upgrades May 26, 2021 at 8:20 p.m. Texas may soon approve a bill to require power generation companies to better prepare their facilities to withstand extreme weather. The requirement for power generators and transmission lines to weatherize has broad support in both the House and Senate for inclusion in Senate Bill 3, a sweeping piece of legislation that attempts to overhaul the states power grid laws. RELATED: Texas House targets power grid flaw that worsened February blackouts However, lawmakers are still debating whether natural gas facilities and pipelines will also be required to make such upgrades. The House added such requirements, and the measure is headed to a conference committee to iron out the differences unless the Senate accepts the change. The House also advanced a $2 billion plan to help companies pay for the upgrades, but the bill to create the fund for the low-cost loans and grants stalled in the Senate. The power grid overhaul may also ultimately leave out reforms to encourage residents and businesses to conserve electricity; a House amendment to require regulators to perform a cost-benefit analysis on energy efficiency programs was withdrawn. The legislation also does not require more weatherization for homes, pipes and other consumer infrastructure. Experts called that a significant oversight during hearings on the legislation.

Critical Infrastructure: State could help fund backup power for facilities like dialysis centers May 26, 2021 at 8:20 p.m. Texas could help fund backup power generation for critical water, health care and electric facilities under the Houses current version of Senate Bill 3, a sweeping piece of legislation that overhauls the states power grid laws. During the winter storm, hundreds of public water systems in Texas were disrupted and millions of people lost access to safe drinking water. The loss of electricity at nursing homes and dialysis centers created life-threatening conditions for patients. More than 1,400 people sought care at emergency rooms and urgent care clinics for carbon monoxide poisoning, and at least 11 people died. A House amendment to SB 3 would create a grant program for projects that improve the resiliency of water, electric and health care infrastructure. Texas does not require carbon monoxide alarms in homes, and there is currently no proposal advancing in either body to do so. Under the Houses version of the bill, natural gas companies would be required to register facilities that supply critical power plants with fuel to register as critical infrastructure so that electricity isnt disconnected during an emergency; many failed to do the registration paperwork, and as a result, some power plants couldnt get the fuel they needed to produce electricity. The measures are likely headed for a conference committee, where senators and representatives will iron out the differences between the two chambers versions of the bill, unless the Senate accepts the House amendment.

Paying for the storm: Electric, power and gas companies could seek billions in ratepayer-backed bonds, loans May 27, 2021 at 2:04 a.m. Most Texans will likely have higher charges on their power bills for years to come to cover gas utilities', electric cooperatives' and electric companies financial losses from the storm and prevent customers from having to pay huge bills in a short time. Lawmakers are close to passing bills that would allow companies to seek billions of dollars in state-approved bonds backed by charges on customers bills to stabilize the states distressed energy market. READ ALSO: Texas Legislature close to approving billions to pay for winter storm financial fallout After state electricity regulators set power prices at the maximum rate, $9,000 per megawatt-hour, and natural gas fuel prices spiked during the storm, many companies  especially natural gas utilities and rural electric cooperatives  were financially wrecked. Others owe massive debts to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas. Lawmakers may soon approve around $4.5 billion in ratepayer-backed bonds for natural gas utilities and another $2 billion in such bonds for electric cooperatives. The Senate also approved a proposal in the early hours of May 27 to allow electric companies, including retail electric providers, to finance an additional $2.1 billion for electricity that companies paid for but never received during the storm, as well as additional charges from the high wholesale power prices. The Senate has pushed hard for a financial remedy to the infamous 32-hour period during the week of the storm when regulators kept wholesale power prices at the $9,000 cap after more electric generation came online. Many people dubbed that controversial decision a regulatory pricing error. Additionally, House Bill 4492 would loan $800 million to ERCOT through the State's Economic Stabilization fund, known as the rainy day fund, to pay for debts to the grid operator. ERCOT acts as a transaction house for the electricity market, so when companies couldn't pay their debts after the storm, other companies got shorted for the electricity that they sold. ERCOT will pass on the cash to companies that are owed money. The state's rainy day fund ended 2020 with a balance of nearly $10 billion. The House and Senate still have different proposals for the mechanisms of how all of the financing proposals will work. The details will soon be discussed behind closed doors in conference committees.

Emergency alerts: Texans could be notified of future power outages May 26, 2021 at 8:20 p.m. In the days leading up to Februarys winter storm, Texans were not warned about the prospect of widespread power outages lasting for days in freezing temperatures. At least 4.8 million homes and businesses lost power and didnt know when it would return. While power was out, the Texas Division of Emergency Management didnt provide accessible and life-saving updates on outages and inclement weather. RESULTS: Texans really hate ERCOT after winter storm, UH survey confirms Now, Texas lawmakers are moving to study and implement an emergency alert system similar to an Amber Alert  an emergency message sent to peoples cellphones when a law enforcement agency determines that a child has been abducted and is in imminent danger. While the House and Senate still need to hash out their differences on several components of SB 3, there is broad support among lawmakers to create an emergency alert system for future power outages. Its unclear when the alert system would be implemented.

Montinique Monroe, Getty Images

Energy regulators: Governing boards to change May 26, 2021 at 8:20 p.m. Lawmakers are close to changing the governance of the states main grid operator, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas. Senate Bill 2 would require the five experts on the 16-person board of directors for Texas main grid operator to be approved by both the Public Utility Commission, which oversees ERCOT, and by a majority of the governor, lieutenant governor and speaker of the House. Politicians previously have not had such direct involvement in choosing the ERCOT board, whose members are currently selected in a variety of ways; some are chosen by ERCOTs own nominating committee while others are appointed by companies and consumers participating in the electricity market, with members representing various power sources. RELATED: ERCOT names new, temporary leader two months after deadly winter storm Under the House version of the bill, the governor would appoint the chair of the ERCOT board, who must reside in Texas. This is a departure from the upper chambers version, which would have given the governor the sole authority to appoint the five experts on the ERCOT board  a change energy experts said would do little to improve the power grid. Lawmakers are also close to increasing the number of seats on the Public Utility Commission under Senate Bill 2154. The two chambers need to hash out their differences in a conference committee, but the latest legislation would increase the number of PUC board members from three to five. The governor would continue to appoint PUC board members, and they would need Senate approval. All three board members of the PUC resigned after the storm.

Renewables under attack: Houses proposal doesnt target clean energy May 26, 2021 at 8:20 p.m. Unlike the Senates version of Senate Bill 3, the sweeping legislation to reform the power grid, the Texas House proposal would not require renewable energy companies to cover the costs of purchasing reserve power for the grid. Renewable sources of energy, such as wind and solar, have been under attack by some Texas Republicans since the storm occurred; many incorrectly said clean energy sources were the primary cause of the widespread power outages. The amended legislation would require state regulators to review whether there is enough reserve power available and if additional reserves from nonrenewable sources are necessary.

The Texas Tribune is a nonpartisan, nonprofit media organization that informs Texans  and engages with them  about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues.
A middle school yearbook is causing an uproar in a North Texas community.

The yearbook for Downing Middle School in Flower Mound features a theme of "We Stick Together" and included dozens of stickers on the cover, including two that sparked the controversy, WFAA's Adrianne M. Haney and Malini Basu report.

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One of the stickers featured the now-popular yard sign slogan: "science is real, Black lives matter, no human is illegal, love is love, women's rights are human rights, kindness is everything." The other sticker was a closed fist with the words "I can't breathe." The cover features a number of other stickers referencing recent events and pop culture, (see: a masked Baby Yoda), but parents reserved their anger for the two pieces they believed constituted a political statement.

After a wave of backlash, the school's art teacher and yearbook coordinator was reportedly placed on administrative leave.

Downing Middle School Principal Curt Martin said in a letter to parents that the stickers on the book did not "[evoke] a political message for me, but rather a documentation of the issues we face as a campus, a community and a nation."

"I take full responsibility for where we are, and hope I can earn back the trust of those of you who feel disappointed and angry right now," Martin said, Haney and Basu report. "I assure you moving forward I will be more aware of our duty to remain neutral."

The middle school offered full refunds for the yearbooks and an alternate sticker that says "Be Happy, Be Bright, Be You" that can be placed over the controversial printed stickers on the cover.

A number of less offended parents are now circulating a letter calling for the school reinstate its art teacher.

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Lewisville ISD, which includes Downing Middle School, also released a statement saying Martin "successfully resolved concerns" and reiterating district policy.

"LISD has always supported the efforts of teachers and administrators to provide outlets for the voices of students in our district publications," the statement read. "It is our best hope that all of our teachers connect with students in a way that makes them feel safe and creates a sense of belonging in every classroom. Having said that, we expect staff to remain neutral while engaging students in these conversations, in accordance with district policy."

This isn't the only yearbook controversy that has made the news this week. Bartram Trail High School in St. Johns, Florida made headlines after its yearbook coordinator badly edited the photos of 80 young women to cover their chests or shoulders.
With San Antonios runoff quickly approaching on June 5 and early voting underway, local residents are taking the time to express their sentiments about candidates ahead of casting their votes.

Or at least toward District 9 candidate Patrick Von Dohlen.

READ MORE: District 3 candidate Phyllis Viagran is building a political brand of her own

Earlier this week, a Reddit user shared a photo of a set of signs they had seen. Next to Von Dohlens conservative campaign sign promoting his pro-freedom, pro-family, pro-business, pro-law and order, pro-Second Amendment and pro-common sense values was a homemade sign pointing at the political ad saying Von Dohlen hates equality. The sign was spotted near Brookhollow and Heimer, but has since been taken down.

The photo has remained online since being posted on Monday, however, and has received more than 160 comments as of publication. While some users have played devils advocate or come to Von Dohlens defense, most have called out the would-be politician for his stances.

My favorite part of his leaflet is that he stood against frivolous lawsuits but also was lead plaintiff in suing the city over [Chick-fil-a], pointed out u/Ledbilly.

This is how you know Patrick has no solutions, only mindless talking points. What does pro-freedom mean? He might as well write pro-puppies, suggested u/KindlyQuasar. Von Dohlen is a bully and a failure. Alternatively, his opponent is a veteran and retired educator. I know who I'll be voting for.

Pro Family also means anti LGBTQ, noted u/DuckyDoodleDandy.

I drive past one that had promotes hate in sharpie, u/fruttypebbles said of another sign tacked onto Von Dohlens campaign materials.

Lets be honest I dont know him but from what things I have seen him say, I am gonna guess the sign is not wrong and he is a jerk, admitted u/720hp.

RELATED: Early voting has started for the June 5 runoff

While online forums cannot always be trusted with political information, much of the criticism toward Von Dohlen is backed up by his previous comments  or lack there of.

During a Texas Public Radio forum earlier this month, he dodged a question about whether he was opposed to LGBTQ individuals being appointed to city boards or commissions. Instead, he noted his ties to the San Antonio Family Association (hes actually a co-founder).

This wasnt his only anti-LGBTQ statement (directly or indirectly) either, according to reports from the San Antonio Express-News. After local businesswoman Ruby Resendez was appointed to the Mayors Commission on the Status of Women in 2018, Von Dohlen used his status within SAFA to issue an alert about the news and call Resendez a homosexual female. It seems to me and other Christians in our city, that every hire and appointment requires being a homosexual activist, Von Dohlen said in a letter to SAFA followers letter soon after.

Before that, he described sex between two men as the penetration of an exit hole used to rid toxic waste of a body during a City Council meeting in 2013, according to the Express-News. More generally, hes described non-straight sexual orientations as unhealthy and the cause of disease and infection.

Its not just the LGBTQ community that hes come after in the past. Von Dohlen has also used his status to share his anti-abortion and anti-contraception views. All his views have been in support of promoting good health, the newspaper reports.

But how healthy can the San Antonio community be if a potential candidate is specifically targeting women and LGBTQ individuals?

San Antonians can take part in early voting for the runoff election through Tuesday, June 1 with election day on Saturday, June 5. You can find more information here.
The city of Cibolo approved gathering $800,000 from city reserves and roadwork refunds to make up for construction shortfalls in renovating the old Cibolo schoolhouse for city office space.

Council voted 5-2 at its May 11 meeting to draw the funds together after learning the cost for an extension to the building, to house an elevator, stairs and restrooms, will add more than $330,000 to an already over-budget project.

Cibolo voters in November 2018 approved $1.8 million in bond money to turn the 105-year-old structure, located one block from City Hall, into municipal office space.

The original renovation plan installing a one-person lift inside the building, to meet ADA requirements, would deplete vital floor space gained in the renovation. The projects architect and construction manager came up with an option B that scrapped the ADA lift in favor of the full-sized elevator.

Construction costs have already drained $437,117 from the bonds $1.8 million, leaving $1.362 million to complete the project. Council was made aware in December 2020 that the base bid price for the ADA lift would total at least $1,817,000  creating a $455,000 deficit.

A budget work sheet shared with council May 11 showed a new budget of $2,151,347  $788,464 more than the available $1.362 million  with the building extension for the elevator.

Trichia Stoddard, J.C. Stoddard business development-operations manager, told council the scope of the project has changed considerably, while escalating construction costs have driven the price up by at least 25 percent.

When you passed the bond, it wasnt as detailed as these plans were, Stoddard said. When you set the bond  it probably did not have everything you are getting a price for today.

The cost overrun, she said, included additional square footage added to the west side of the building for the elevator, stairs and restroom facilities.

At the time, we were of the understanding that the lift would be adequate and that an elevator wouldnt be required, she said. That changed after we got started with the architect and the contractor.

Construction manager J.C. Stoddard said prices have escalated since council last discussed the project in December.

In both cases, the cost for the base bids has gone up about $300,000 since December, which represents about a 25 percent increase, considering materials  prices have gone up about 30 percent, Stoddard said.

City Councilman Mark Allen asked city staff the obvious question: Where does staff recommend we get the extra $800,000 from, in order to complete the more elaborate solution?

Rudy Klein, director of planning and engineering, explained the sources of funding to cover the $800,000 shortage.

The city will realize a $250,000 payment from The NRP Group for land acquisition, used to purchase the land for fire station no. 4. He suggested taking $250,000 from the general fund, to be replaced by this $250,000 payment when it arrives in August 2022.

The second funding source is the Texas Department of Transportation, which is about to reimburse the city for work done on utilities along FM 1103. About $300,000 of that money will be targeted for this project, he said.

Thirdly, Klein recommended using excess from the citys reserve fund.

Right now, were well over the 35 percent reserve fund and I understand from finance that theres $250,000 in excess reserve funds there, he said.

Trichia Stoddard said the project would take less than a year to complete.

We figured that if we start, with everything approved, all the selections done and no more questions or changes, we can do it in 10 months, she said. That is what we are calculating.

jflinn@express-news.net
Motorists who frequent Evans Road in Selma are going to have to find a different route come May 31, when the first phase of a 16-month reconstruction project begins.

Traffic from the Interstate 35 access road to Lookout Road will be closed for 10 months in Phase 1 of the $3,347,805 project. The second phase will close Evans from Lookout Road to the city limit at the Union Pacific rail line for another 5-6 months of construction.

A single lane of Evans off the access road will remain open to allow parishioners at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church to enter their parking lots. No traffic will flow back out onto Evans, meaning churchgoers will have to use Meyers Lane, a private drive behind the church, to exit the churchs rear parking areas.

J3 Co. construction out of Comfort, Texas, was awarded the bid prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Selma City Administrator Johnny Casias said J3 is ready to break ground and begin the long-awaited renovation project.

The $3.34 million project will see new pavement replace the roads current cracked and pot-hole-ridden surface, with curbing along both sides. The two 11-foot-wide lanes will be rebuilt for the entire 1.3-mile stretch.

The project includes 6-foot bike lanes on each side of Evans, a 5-foot-wide sidewalk on the west side of the road, and a new 10-foot-wide stretch of trail along Cibolo Creek, aptly referred to as the Cibolo Creek Recreation Trail.

Casias said the Evans-Lookout Road intersection will remain open. But for the next 10 months, drivers on Lookout will not have access to I-35 via Evans.

Once Phase 1 is complete, that stretch of roadway will reopen and Phase 2, from Lookout Road to the U.P. rail line, will close to all traffic.

Weve started to put out our traffic control plan, via all communication methods, including the city website, all forms of social media and through several visits with leadership at OLPH, Casias said. It will all become live May 31.

jflinn@express-news.net
Hurricane season is right around the corner.

And after more than a week's worth of rain, now is a good time to remind you about Houston's Adopt-A-Drain program. Its a way for you to help yourself, your neighbors and the city mitigate flooding.

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Storm drains and rain gutters only work if they are clear of debris like leaves, branches or a litter. Houstons streets are designed to flood in most areas, but higher floodwaters can accumulate wind storm drains are clogged.

Here's what that looks like:

Thats where you come in.

Through the program, you claim a drain in your neighborhood or anywhere throughout the city, name it and take responsibility over making sure it is free of debris at least four times a year.

Any seasoned Houstonian who has lived through a storm that caused flooding knows the importance of having free and clear storm drains.

While youre at it, you can name your drain and get creative with it. Just not too creative.

To sign up, visit the city of Houston website.
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State Sen. Anna Kaplan of Long Island sees a connection between ongoing antisemitism and ignorance about the Holocaust. Recent surveys from Jewish advocacy organizations highlight how Americans do not appear to know about key details about the murders of millions of people by the Nazis during World War II, and the problem is getting worse. We have to acknowledge the existing problem and find steps to really solve this, Kaplan, the first Iranian-born Jewish person elected to the state Senate, said in an interview earlier this spring. So she and Assembly Member Nily Rozic of Queens, who is related to people who were killed in the Holocaust, began a new effort to pass 3-year-old legislation they are sponsoring in their respective chambers.

The whole idea is to study whether school districts across the state are teaching students about the Holocaust as well as they should. It is one of several topics mandated by state law for public school students. The state also requires education about slavery, Great Irish Famine and the nuts and bolts of how immigrants built the transcontinental railroad. If the bill passes and Gov. Andrew Cuomo signs it into law, the state Education Department would have one year to ask school districts how and what they teach about the Holocaust, according to the legislative language. State lawmakers have approved similar legislation to examine how problems like cyberbullying and the effects of urban glass on birds are playing out across the state.

Passing a bill that promotes knowledge about the Holocaust seems straightforward. Kaplan and Rozic are members of the legislative supermajorities, and their bill is no budget buster in the grand scheme of a $212 billion state budget. Republicans are even highlighting their own support for getting the bill passed before lawmakers have their last scheduled session day in Albany on June 10. Yet, Mondays meeting of the Assembly Education Committee highlights how politics have complicated its passage. Special interests intervene. Colleagues present unexpected complications. Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie of the Bronx has not fulfilled years-old promises to ensure the public and media know what is happening in his chamber.

The Assembly has broadcast live streams of its committee meetings since lawmakers began meeting remotely last year, but videos are not archived online. Heastie said the chamber would make their archived meetings accessible online in 2016, which was already seven years after the state Senate began mastering the apparently elusive skill of YouTubery. Five years later, Heastie claims his staff still cannot figure out how to post videos so people can watch them later. I'd have to look into that, he told City & State in a May 26 interview. Let me speak to the operations team and we'll get back to you. Republican Assembly Member Doug Smith of Long Island, however, did record the meeting and provided a copy to City & State. City & State obtained a second recording from another source who requested anonymity.

The recordings show Education Committee Chair Michael Benedetto, a Democrat of the Bronx and a former teacher, did not want this bill to pass. State law requires that students learn about the Holocaust. He assured colleagues that unnamed teachers and state Education Commissioner Betty Rosa  whose spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment  say schools are doing great at teaching students about the Holocaust. How could lawmakers ever impose upon the commissioner in such a way, Benedetto asked colleagues. It is too important a subject to be glossed over, and I was assured that they conduct courses, said Benedetto, who added that Rosa offered to write a letter reminding school districts to teach kids about the Holocaust. This was Benedettos first line of argument to convince colleagues to keep the bill from moving forward in the legislative process.

He also said that the multibillion dollar department could not bear the costs of reporting how well 731 districts were teaching kids about the Holocaust. And if lawmakers make the department check how students are learning about that, what next? Benedetto pondered. You get people complaining that they don't teach civics anymore in school and that's just not true, he said. Do I tell the commissioner, Let's do a study on every single school to make sure civics is being taught? He then flubbed a key fact about the bill, which does not require every single school district (to) do a report each year. The bill calls for a one-time report on the information gathered from all those school districts, which contain more than 4,000 schools, by next January if it passes this year.

Others offered a different rationale for why they voted to hold the bill. I am supportive of this, but I also want my history taught and the fears that I have experienced and that my family has experienced and being burnt out like Oklahoma did with Greenwood, Assembly Member Inez Dickens, a Democrat of the Bronx, said at the meeting. Assembly Member Chantel Jackson, also a Democrat of the Bronx, agreed the bill should have included a review of education about slavery. That was my reason for holding, she said in an interview. Assembly Member Alicia Hyndman, a Democrat of Queens, noted students might not be learning enough about Asian history about internment camps, Black history about slavery  when Italians and Irish people came here, the discrimination they faced, (and) homophobia. Assembly Member Latoya Joyner, a Democrat of the Bronx, added that she wanted a broader bill but did not respond by publication time to clarify what that meant.

At least 10 out of 30 committee members  the Legislative Retrieval System has not been updated to include an official vote count  ultimately said on the recording they wanted to vote to hold the bill in the committee where it would not go anywhere soon. Most of them did not state a reason at the meeting. A bipartisan majority of committee members, however, decided checking up on how well schools were teaching students about the Holocaust made sense as incidents of antisemitic hate crimes continue around the state. I've heard things that are just so deeply disturbing to my face (and) behind my back, 11-term Democratic Assembly Member Amy Paulin of Westchester, who is Jewish, said at the meeting. For one of the only times that I've been in the New York State Assembly, Im going to be voting against a chair (on a bill). Others also outlined their support for the bill in terms of concern for fellow New Yorkers. I represent a district on Long Island and every once in a while when we have menorah, lightings and things, kids will go and destroy the menorah, I guess they think it's a joke or something funny, Smith told colleagues. I think that underscores the fact that we could be doing a little bit of a better job now. Because a majority of the committee voted against Benedettos proposed hold, the bill is now heading to the Assembly floor for a final vote, right?

Nope.

Benedetto did something interesting by requesting a vote to either hold the bill in the Education Committee or redesignate it as one before the Ways and Means Committee, which is tasked with fiscal matters. A few of us are a little confused because there's no fiscal impact on the bill, Smith said in an interview. So the bill was not votedout of committee, which could have meant its next stop was the Assembly floor. Instead, the bill has to go through at least one more committee with just seven more session days left. Rozic could not be reached for comment by publication time.

The bill still has to get through the state Senate  which has passed it before. A spokesperson for Kaplan said complications like those seen in the Assembly are not expected. But time is running out weeks after Kaplan and Rozic began their latest push for the bill. State Senate Education Committee Chair Shelley Mayer of Yonkers could not be reached for comment by publication time, but the ongoing saga of the bill in the Assembly has already highlighted how political friction jams the gears of the legislative process.
Yesterday, Facebook released a threat report on what it calls influence operations on its platform. The company defined influence operations as coordinated efforts to manipulate or corrupt public debate for a strategic goalan apparent reference to the kinds of activity that Americans heard about during the 2016 election, from entities such as the Russian troll farm known as the Internet Research Agency, which used fake accounts to spread disinformation about the election and to generally cause chaos. In its report, Facebook says it has uncovered evidence of more than 150 coordinated inauthentic behavior campaigns in more than 50 countries since 2017, and breaks down some of the details of these operations over that period. In addition to noting that Russia is still the leading player in this kind of campaign (at least the ones that Facebook knows about), the company describes how dealing with these kinds of threats has become much more complex since 2016.

One of the big challenges is defining what qualifies as coordinated inauthentic behavior. Although Facebook doesnt really deal with this in its report, much of what happens on the service (and other similar platforms) might fit that description. In private groups devoted to everything from politics to fitness and beauty products, there are likely plenty of posts that could be described as coordinated efforts to manipulate public debate for a strategic goal, albeit not the kind that rise to the level of a Russian troll farm.

Influence operations can take a number of forms, Facebook says, from covert campaigns that rely on fake identities to overt, state-controlled media efforts that use authentic and influential voices to promote messages that may or may not be false. For example, during the 2016 election, the Internet Research Agency created groups devoted to Black Lives Matter and other topics that were filled with authentic posts from real users who were committed to the cause. In one case mentioned in Facebooks threat report, a US marketing firm working for clients such as Turning Point USA, a conservative political action committee, recruited a staff of teenagers to pose as unaffiliated voters and comment on various pages and accounts. As Shannon McGregor, a researcher at the University of North Carolinas Center for Information, Technology, and Public Life, wrote in Wired, enlisting supporters in coordinated social media efforts is actually a routine campaign practice.

According to Facebooks report, this is why content itself isnt a reliable signal for determining whether a given account or a Page is part of an influence operation. The company says its internal security staff have seen deceptive campaigns reusing real posts to build an audience, and real people who unwittingly post memes originally created by IO actors. Thats why the company says its definition of coordinated inauthentic behavior requires the use of fake accounts to mislead users. Many deceptive efforts, it says, dont cross the coordinated inauthentic behavior threshold, such as the use of political topics to drive people to websites filled with ads.

Facebook also describes how the tactics used by malicious actors are changing. One change involves what Facebook calls a shift from wholesale to retail influence operations, meaning a move away from broad deceptive campaigns that are designed to reach everyone on Facebook to smaller, more targeted operations. Facebook also describes what it calls perception hacking, in which malicious actors try to capitalize on the fear of foreign influence, and convince users that this kind of activity has been more effective than it actually has been. And it says it has seen the rise of influence operations as a service, in which commercial entities offer their services to government actors and others, providing them with a smokescreen for their identities.

When it comes to dealing with this problem, Facebook says it uses a number of tactics, including combining automated detection of inauthentic behavior and expert investigations by staff, although it says the latter are hard to scale. Other tools include what the company calls adversarial design, making the tactics that malicious actors usesuch as fake accountsless effective or harder to implement, and the use of independent researchers, law enforcement, and journalists to identify the sources of such campaigns. Journalists seem less enamored of being used by Facebook in this way, however, and often complain that the company doesnt take action until the media writes about something.

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While the Facebook report tries to give the impression of a company doing its best to keep the information ecosystem clean using all of its advanced technology, other internal documents paint a different picture. For example, a leaked report by Facebook staff on the Stop the Steal campaign that preceded the attack on Congress on January 6 argued that the company failed to take action against people and groups loyal to Donald Trump, including the Patriot Party, and that these groups played a key role in the events of January 6. Ironically, given Facebooks focus in its latest public threat report, the internal document said the companys emphasis on rooting out fake accounts kept it from taking action against real people who were plotting an insurrection.

Below, more on Facebook and inauthentic behavior:

Other notable stories:

Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today

Mathew Ingram is CJRs chief digital writer. Previously, he was a senior writer with Fortune magazine. He has written about the intersection between media and technology since the earliest days of the commercial internet. His writing has been published in the Washington Post and the Financial Times as well as by Reuters and Bloomberg.
ROME (AP)  Police arrested three people Wednesday in the cable car disaster that killed 14 people in northern Italy, saying an investigation showed a clamp, intentionally placed on the brake as a patchwork repair, prevented the brake from engaging after the lead cable snapped.

Carabinieri Lt. Col. Alberto Cicognani said at least one of the three people questioned overnight admitted to what happened. He said the fork-shaped clamp had been placed on the emergency brake to deactivate it because the brake was engaging spontaneously and preventing the funicular from working.

The clamp was put on several weeks ago as a temporary fix to prevent further service interruptions in the cable car line bringing sightseers to the top of the Mottarone peak overlooking Lake Maggiore. It was still in place on Sunday morning, Cicognani told Sky TG24

After the lead cable snapped Sunday, the cabin reeled back down the line until it pulled off entirely, crashed to the ground and rolled over down the mountainside until it came to rest against some trees. Fourteen people were killed; the lone survivor, a 5-year-old boy, remains hospitalized.

Because of a malfunction, the brake was continuing to engage even when it wasnt supposed to, Cicognani told Sky. To prevent the cabin from halting during the transport of passengers, they chose to not remove the dispositive that blocked the emergency brake.

In this way, the brake couldnt function, and this brought about the fact that when the cable broke, the cabin fell backwards, he said.

Sky and the LaPresse news agency identified the three people arrested as the owner of the cable car service, the companys director and the service chief.

Verbania Prosecutor Olimpia Bossi said the deactivation of the brake was clearly designed as a stop-gap measure to allow the funicular to continue operating. The more extensive, radical repair operation that was needed would have likely taken it out of service, she said.

Bossi told reporters that investigators believed the stop-gap measure was used with the full knowledge of the cable car company owners.

As a result, the arrests turned the horror of Sundays disaster into outrage, given it appeared to have been an entirely preventable tragedy.

Already, the mayor of the hometown of one of the victims, Serena Cosentino, announced that the city would pursue legal action against those responsible, saying it would present itself as an injured party in the civil portion of any possible prosecution.

The news unfortunately is showing a broad plane of responsibility and omissive guilt, Diamonte Mayor Ernesto Magorno said in a statement.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Grace Louise Archer, age 90, a resident of Aurora, Colorado, a former resident of Chillicothe, Missouri, passed away on Wednesday, June 2, 2021, at Shalom Park, Aurora, Colorado. Grace was born the daughter of Maurice P. Martin, Sr., and Margaret (O'Connor) Martin on October 10, 1930, in Chi
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Beachwood, OH (44122)

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A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 82F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph..

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Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 65F. Winds light and variable.
Beachwood, OH (44122)

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A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 81F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph..

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A few clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 66F. Winds light and variable.
Clinton, IA (52732)

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Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 89F. Winds NNW at 10 to 20 mph..

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Clear skies. Low near 60F. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  The decision to extend by three more years the Bangsamoro Transition Authority's term remains solely in the hands of the legislative branch, Malacanang reiterated on Thursday.

The President has always been consistent that he leaves the issue of extending the transition period in the BARMM (Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) to Congress, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque told a media briefing.

While President Rodrigo Duterte has been approached by both supporters and those against calls for BTA's additional three-year term from 2022, his consistent advice is for them to closely coordinate with lawmakers, Roque said.

Duterte personally supports the extension until 2025, according to his Cabinet members.

President Rodrigo Duterte is supporting the possible extension of the Bangsamoro transition period to three more years after its lapse in 2022, his Cabinet officials confirmed Thursday. cnnphilippines.com]

The BTA is the interim government of the BARMM, the political entity which replaced the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao in 2019 through the Bangsamoro Organic Law. The law was a result of decades-long negotiations between the government and Moro rebels who fought for self-determination.

To extend the BTAs term until 2025, Congress needs to pass a measure that would postpone the first regular election in the region, which has been set for 2022.

The Commission on Elections has asked lawmakers to come up with a decision by July so that necessary preparations can be made in case the regional polls would push through.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  President Rodrigo Duterte has approved billions of pesos in additional funding for the repatriation and quarantine expenses of overseas Filipino workers, the Palace said Thursday.

Ito ay mismong kinumpirma ni (Labor) Secretary Silvestre Bello, said Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque during his regular briefing. At ito poy pambayad sa mga hotels dahil nga sa mas mahabang quarantine na nire-require natin sa mga bumabalik na OFW.

[Translation: Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello confirmed this himself. The budget will be used to pay hotels given the longer quarantine period we require returning OFWs to undergo.]

Bello made the confirmation yesterday, noting that the President has given the go signal for Budget Secretary Wendel Avisado's recommended additional funding for the agency. Avisado told CNN Philippines the approved budget is 5.211 billion.

Naiipit na rin tayo, marami tayong hotels diyan ayaw na tumanggap ng mga OFWs dahil nabinbin ang ating mga obligation, said the Labor chief.

[Translation: Were really in a bind because many hotels dont want to accept OFWs anymore because our obligations have been piling up.]

According to guidelines of the government's inter-agency pandemic task force, OFWs must stay in a government accredited facility for ten days even if they test negative for COVID-19. They may continue their 14-day isolation at home or in a hotel of their choice.

Bello also reported that around 556,000 OFWs have already been repatriated since the start of the health crisis.

Tiyak matutuwa na naman ang mga paborito mong OFW dahil marami na namang makakatanggap ng benepisyo, said Bello of Dutertes approval of more funds for the overseas workers.

[Translation: For sure, your favorite OFWs will be delighted once more because they will again be receiving benefits.]

CNN Philippines correspondent Tristan Nodalo contributed to this report.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27) President Rodrigo Duterte has approved two new measures granting additional legislative districts in Bulacan province and Caloocan City.

The Republic Act No. 11546 which Duterte signed on Wednesday but was released to the media on Thursday, divides Bulacan into six districts, from five before. The increase will take effect in the 2022 elections.

The new law also states that all incumbent representatives of Bulacan shall continue to hold office until their terms expire.

Republic Act No. 11545, on the other hand, reapportions Caloocan Citys first legislative district into two separate districts, also effective in next years polls.

The districts shall be composed of the following barangays:

The Commission on Elections shall issue the rules and regulations for both measures, according to both documents.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  The chairman of the Senate committee on basic education believes it's time for some students to return to their classrooms for better learning.

At a media forum hosted by the Liga ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas, Inc. on Thursday, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian proposed the resumption of traditional face-to-face classes in areas with little to no coronavirus transmission. The Department of Education eyes Aug. 23 as the start of school year 2021-2022.

"Habang papalapit po ang Agosto e tingnan natin kung kaya na pero ako, ang aking itinutulak ay magkaroon ng face to face this coming bagong school year," Gatchalian said.

[Translation: As August draws near, let's see if we can do it but what I am pushing for is to have face-to-face classes this coming school year.]

READ: Half-day rule to be implemented once face-to-face classes are allowed

To pave the way for the return of physical classes, Gatchalian is calling on the government to start vaccinating more adult members of the general public by June, to be followed by teenagers or students. The inoculation drive has prioritized health workers, senior citizens, and persons with comorbidities. Next in line are the economic frontliners or essential workers, but there's no green light from the government yet.

"Pagtapos po nitong general public adults, ay pumunta na tayo sa mga bata. Dahil maraming bata gusto nang magpabakuna lalo na 'yung mga magulang nila dahil paano natin papapasukin 'yung mga bata kung hindi po ligtas 'yung kanilang kalusugan," Gatchalian said.

[Translation: After the adult members of the general public, let's vaccinate the children. A lot of them want to get vaccinated especially their parents because how can we allow the children to go to school if their health is not assured?]

According to the Department of Finance, about 20 billion will be needed for the COVID-19 shots of some 15 million Filipinos aged 12 to 17, who are mostly in high school.

In December last year, President Rodrigo Duterte approved the pilot implementation of basic education face-to-face classes in areas considered at low risk for COVID-19. He recalled the order due to the threat of the more transmissible variant from the United Kingdom. The country is now facing several other variants of concern.

At the tertiary level, a number of medical schools have been allowed to hold limited physical classes for hands-on training and laboratory classes.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  Metro Manila mayors are in favor of extending the general community quarantine in the capital region, but with a gradual easing of capacity restrictions for businesses as COVID-19 cases continue to decline in the area, an official said Thursday.

Speaking to CNN Philippines' The Source, Metro Manila Development Authority Chair Benhur Abalos said majority of the mayors really wanted to further ease restrictions on public activities and business operations, but with caution on potential health risks. A 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. curfew will likely be maintained.

"[Ang recommendation] parang ganoon na rin, parang GCQ na rin, its not actually heightened because you are opening a little bit. Maaring mas mababa sa heightened GCQ but still within GCQ pero mas tataasan ang mga negosyo, capacity," Abalos said.

[Translation: The mayors recommended that we keep the GCQ but it's not actually heightened because you are opening a little bit. It could be looser than heightened GCQ but still within GCQ, and with more businesses, capacity.]

Abalos said this consensus came up after the Health Department reported at Wednesday's meeting with the Metro Manila Council the continuous decline in COVID-19 cases in the region.

MMC head and Paranaque City Mayor Edwin Olivarez told CNN Philippines that the council proposed to reopen meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions. They also sought additional capacity for dine-in services.

Gym operations and other activities in enclosed spaces will still be prohibited, but Abalos and Olivarez said capacity in religious gatherings and personal care services may be increased to 50%.

Olivarez emphasized that their recommendations are not yet set in stone. The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases will meet within the day to finalize the decision on the quarantine classification in the capital region for June.

In a separate briefing, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said fresh data will be presented during the meeting in order to carefully deliberate whether GCQ will be extended with heightened or loosened restrictions.

"Huwag tayo magluluwag basta-basta dahil baka mawala ang ating mga nakamit nang tagumpay," Duque said. "Ayaw natin itong mabalewala kapag binilisan natin ang pagluluwag. So hinay-hinay, Binabalanse natin ang kalusugan higit sa lahat at ang ekonomiya."

[Translation: We must not ease restrictions just like that because we might lose the progress we have made. We do not want to put them to waste with an abrupt shift. So let's do it gradually. We are balancing health most importantly, and the economy.]

San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora was among the mayors who backed the proposal to ease restrictions but noted that Metro Manila cannot just shift to a modified GCQ just yet.

"When we change status, it doesn't mean a shift to modified GCQ right away. You can still retain GCQ but add a little more operational capacity," he told CNN Philippines' New Day.

The government's pandemic response task force may also come up with more simplified guidelines for the Metro Manila mayors on the vaccination of the economic frontliners or the A4 group within the week, he said.

The OCTA Research Group has recently endorsed another two-week GCQ extension despite previously reporting on the "good indicators" of an improving COVID-19 situation in Metro Manila. It stressed that restrictions must only be eased gradually to avoid so-called superspreader events.

READ: OCTA: There are 'good indicators' Metro Manila can gradually ease restrictions

CNN Philippines' Melissa Lopez and Glee Jalea contributed to this report.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  While the Bayanihan 3 bill has already made significant strides in the House of Representatives, Malacanang says it awaits what economic managers and the Treasury have to say about the measures funding prior to its certification as urgent.

Hinihintay pa muna natin yung report ng ating economic team if we have available funds pa rin no, said Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque during his regular briefing on Thursday.

[Translation: Were waiting for the report of our economic team if we still have available funds.]

The spokesman reiterated the economic managers consistent position of first looking into whether the 2021 national budget may still be used for now along with remaining funds from Bayanihan 2, also known as the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act, before utilizing a third economic stimulus package.

An additional consideration po is yung certification coming from the Treasury kung mayroon po tayong pondo para mapondohan ang Bayanihan 3, said Roque.

[Translation: An additional consideration is the certification coming from the Treasury on whether we still have sufficient funds for financing Bayanihan 3.]

The House of Representatives recently approved on second reading the proposed measure, which contains a 405.6 billion package providing for a new round of financial assistance for Filipinos affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco earlier said the chamber eyes passing the bill, also known as Bayanihan to Arise as One Act, on its third and final reading before Congress adjournment on June 5.

The Philippine economy shrank by 4.2% from January to March, effectively keeping the country in recession as it continues to combat the health crisis.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  Presidential spokesman Harry Roque slammed Vice President Leni Robredo for pushing to be in an infomercial to boost vaccine confidence with President Rodrigo Duterte after her attacks on the administrations inoculation program.

During the televised Cabinet meeting Wednesday, Roque claimed that the vice president volunteered to be in an advertisement with Duterte now that more Filipinos are getting vaccinated.

Sa loob loob ko, pagkatapos tayo siraan nang siraan eh ngayong nagiging matagumpay ang ating vaccination eh makikisama ngayon," he said.

[Translation: To my mind, after being criticized repeatedly, now that the vaccination program is a success, she's willing to collaborate.]

Ang sabi po ng bise president, nasi daw po niyang makasama kayo sa infomercial para sa vaccine confidence. Ang sabi ko po eh Im sure pag-aaralan ninyo kung anong kontribusyon ang maibibigay ng partisipasyon ng ating bise presidente, he added.

[Translation: The Vice President said she wants to be in an informercial for vaccine confidence with you. I said I'm sure that you will study the benefit of the vice-president's participation.]

To recall, it was Senator Joel Villanueva who proposed that the countrys top officials be featured in an infomercial to help boost vaccine confidence among Filipinos. The proposal was supported by Health Secretary Francisco Duque III.

READ: Senator calls for Duterte-Robredo infomercial to boost Filipinos' vaccine confidence

When asked about the matter, Robredo said she is willing to do so if this will indeed encourage more people to get their coronavirus shot.

However, Roque said last week that before this could happen, she should first clarify her stand on China-made vaccines. Robredo refuted this, saying she does not discriminate and only wanted to ensure that all brands go through the same evaluation.

The country has so far received over 8 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines, most of which are Chinas Sinovac vaccine. Of this, around 7.7 million doses were deployed in 3,850 vaccination sites across the country.

Since the immunization program started in March, a total of 4,495,375 doses have been administered, and 1,029,061 individuals have received two doses, according to latest government data.
Experimental bike lane markings have been placed on Route 26 in Ocean View as part of the Town's recent efforts toward improving safety for cyclists. A bicycle safety event is set to take place in the town on June 25.
Columbia, SC (29201)

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Isolated thunderstorms this morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. High 88F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%..

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Scattered thunderstorms early, then mainly cloudy after midnight. Low around 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
The Makery, a State College arts and crafts workshop, has moved from 209 W. Calder Way to its current location at 123 S. Fraser St., according to director Amy Frank.

Frank said the business completed the move across the street during the first week of May, and said its new location has greater access to the Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza.

"There's a lot of benefit for us to having the outdoor space with the plaza," Frank said. "It's a smaller footprint generally but a much better fit as far as lighting."

Frank said the Fraser Street location was a target for the business even before the pandemic.

"It's a much better fit for what we do," Frank said.

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+2 Thunderstorm knocks down trees, causes road closures in downtown State College A thunderstorm in State College Wednesday caused several fallen trees and traffic light powe
Though Penn State students experienced a taxing spring semester due to coronavirus restrictions and unprecedented online learning settings, many students still registered for summer courses.

Many of those students have been balancing their academic work with the demands of summer jobs and family obligations.

Students said they enrolled in summer courses for a variety of reasons, including to get ahead on credits, to meet academic requirements or to simply continue their education throughout the year.

Victoria Snyder enrolled in a science course during the first six-week summer session to complete her general education natural science credits, which she said she preferred over taking a science course during a regular semester.

According to Snyder (sophomore-English), balancing an intense and quick-paced summer course is a challenge  even without work and family obligations added to the mix.

Im finding it hard [to complete summer work] since my brain is just not ready to do school so soon after the spring semester, Snyder said. I dont think Ive had enough time between the end of school and the beginning of summer school, but that was primarily my own fault for signing up for the first summer session.

A Georgetown University Center on Education and Workforce study found approximately 70% of all college students work while enrolled in their academic programs, according to U.S. News.

From what Ive seen so far, if you had to do a six-week class while also working a full-time job, youd probably be up all night [completing schoolwork] and working all day, Snyder said.

Students often need time to adjust to new classes, making the first week or two rough, regardless of the circumstances, according to Snyder.

To better manage her classes over the summer, Snyder said shes spreading out her work and making time for both summer fun and other obligations.

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Im planning to allot time every day to do schoolwork instead of just enjoying my summer for three days and cramming for school the whole time, Snyder said. It just makes more sense to spread the work out  getting the best of both worlds.

Mandy McCammon, an adult learner, said she decided to return to college after years of serving in the military. Now, McCammon is taking summer classes to get ahead on her degree while also managing family and work commitments.

Being an adult learner and coming back now, I really appreciate [the classes] a lot more, and I really try to learn and get the most out of these classes  compared to my [experience] before joining the military, McCammon (senior-liberal arts) said.

McCammon said her familys support has helped [her] balance academics with other obligations, especially since theyre taking on additional responsibilities around the house, which allows her to focus primarily on school.

According to McCammon, having reliable people in her life helps her feel less stressed about managing a busy schedule this summer.

If you dont have somebody to take some of those other things away from you, then it can be really exhausting, McCammon said.

Besides having a reliable support system, McCammon also tries to lessen her commitments during testing periods. During finals or midterm weeks, McCammon said she adjusts her schedule as needed and reaches out to her boss to better balance obligations.

The success [in balancing different aspects of ones life] comes down to two things  time management and asking for some help, McCammon said.

Since no one expects McCammon to have it all completely balanced and figured out, she said shes tried to be open when asking for help and gentle with herself when she focuses on school.

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McCammon said shes predicting summer session classes will be easier than regular semesters because she will have fewer personal obligations to take care of. However, McCammon said living three blocks from the beach may challenge her focus.

A lot of times your motivation to sit behind a computer is a lot lower when everyone else is at the beach having fun, McCammon said. When I was doing my spring classes, it was cold and dark at 5 oclock. So, who cares if you stay up until 10 oclock at night doing schoolwork in that weather?

To reward herself for hard work throughout the week, McCammon said she plans to work outside by the pool during the weekends, which would still allow her to complete obligations while getting some sunshine.

From experience in past semesters, McCammon said allocating time for self-care and personal hobbies is important for maintaining ones mental health and having a balanced schedule. In fact, she said she woke up early every day so she could complete activities she enjoyed, like going for a walk.

No matter what else happens throughout the day  whether its midnight until I finish all my classes or if I end up having a really long work day  I still feel like I took care of myself, McCammon said.

Gianna Gagliardi said she decided to take summer classes based on recommendations from peers and a desire to complete general education requirements shed prefer to do outside of the typical fall or spring academic semesters.

Throughout this summer, Gagliardi (sophomore-mechanical engineering) said shes working two jobs while also managing her summer classes and family obligations.

Her decision to work summer jobs while also completing courses is rooted in a need to raise money for out-of-state tuition, Gagliardi said.

MORE CAMPUS COVERAGE

Penn State University Police adopt FirstNet communications platform for first responders Penn State University Police and Public Safety will be utilizing new technology titled "Firs

Im a broke college kid, and what college student doesnt want to make extra money wherever they can? Gagliardi said.

According to Gagliardi, frontloading academic work is one way she plans to handle her various responsibilities over the summer, especially in order to limit stress.

She said she plans to work ahead and complete as much work as possible when her schedule is less busy.

When you do have a moment, its really important to utilize that time and make the most of it, Gagliardi said.

To maintain a normal sleep schedule and help her mental health, Gagliardi said she carefully coordinated her work schedule to only work daytime shifts.

Dewellah Nicoloff, another adult learner, said she decided to take summer classes because thats where the opportunity presented itself.

Besides being a student, Nicoloff (freshman-business administration) is also managing the responsibilities of house hunting, being a mother, applying for jobs and attending class.

In general, Nicoloff said she decided to register for college classes this year after receiving multiple rejections from potential employers.

I was being faced with that You dont have a degree phrase so often that it seemed like I was doomed to take lower paying jobs that I was overqualified for just because I didnt have a degree, Nicoloff said.

Despite extensive experience in her field, Nicoloff said companies rejected her applications and declared her ineligible for the desired positions since she lacked a college degree

So, I get to do it backward, Nicoloff said. Ive always considered myself a little bit of a backward person, and I dont really conform to what people would consider normal  attending college [after years of occupational experience] fits that trend.

After completing her degree, Nicoloff said she will have 20 years of field experience in addition to the degree. However, right now shes still adjusting to balancing classes with work.

MORE CAMPUS COVERAGE

I have to prioritize my class around what my family needs from me and what I need to get taken care of in my household in terms of daily rituals like making dinner and grocery shopping, Nicoloff said.

One tactic Nicoloff uses to improve time management is setting alarms throughout the day to manage her time and keep her on track.

No matter what Im doing when the alarm goes off, I listen to it, stop what I was originally doing and go on to the next task, Nicoloff said.

Being in the right mindset also helps people succeed in summer classes, Nicoloff said. She said she needs to transition from the mindset of teacher to student.

The biggest challenge for me right now is realizing that Im the student and not the teacher in this situation like I have been when being a parent and a management figure in manufacturing, Nicoloff said. Now, Im trying to reverse the roles.

Even when facing setbacks  like misunderstanding an English assignment  Nicoloff said she continues pushing forward because if [she] sets her mind to something, [she] is going to accomplish it.

In order to succeed in any situation, including summer classes, Nicoloff said people need to understand themselves and what their strengths and weaknesses are. Then, after learning their own habits, she said people can apply that information to their environments to succeed.

Youve got to know yourself before you can know your environment, Nicoloff said. It takes a little bit of discipline to get into a flow.

MORE CAMPUS COVERAGE

President Eric Barron discusses future of Penn State's Arboretum, in-person activities Penn State President Eric Barron discussed the future of The Arboretum at Penn State and upc
Protesters gathered in support of Israel Wednesday at the intersection of Ninth Street and Broadway. The pro-Israel rally was in light of the recent conflict between Israel and the militant Palestinian group Hamas that ended in a cease-fire last Thursday. Prior to the rally, Daniel Swindell and others from Missouri Zionists set up a book table with books about Israel and Judaism that people could take for free. If you read a book by a Jewish person that tells a little bit about what a Jewish person experiences, he said then youll understand more of the Jewish story.

From 5 to 6 p.m. protesters spread to all four corners of the intersection and quietly held signs while covered in Israeli flags. In attendance were Reps. Cheri Toalson Reisch, R-Hallsville and Chuck Basye, R-Rocheport.

Around 25 people attended and the event lasted two hours.

Daniel Swindell ties an Israeli flag around Pam Anderson's shoulders Bonnie Lee holds a we love Israel sign Around 25 people gathered in support of Israel The sun casts a silhouette onto protestors A protester holds out a we love Israel sign
Columbia, MO (65201)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 92F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Clear skies. Low around 65F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
(Posted May 27, 2021)

By Dedra Cordle, Staff Writer

Stacey Hallowes-Billiter could hardly believe her ears.

Her student, Drew Carter, had just shared news that he had been invited to attend an all-expenses paid trip to South Dakota to study under the tutelage of a famous artist at an exclusive retreat in Deadwood.

While thrilled he would be able to experience this once-in-a-lifetime opportunityit couldnt have happened to a better kiddo, she saidHallowes-Billiter could not help but to reflect on how much Drews attitude toward art has changed in the four years she had known him.

Its been a turn of events, I can tell you that, she said with a laugh.

Upon looking over Drews first assignment in her art class at London High School, Hallowes-Billiter knew right away the then freshman had an innate talent.

The work that he turned in so was impressive, she said.

What was not so impressive, however, was how little drive Drew had to hone those skills.

He told me at the time it was just something fun for him to do, she said.

Drew, now a graduating senior, agrees with that assessment.

I never took it seriously until this past year, he said, adding that it was due in part to a lack of confidence in his skills.

Ashli Carter noticed something different about her sons drawings when he was younger.

All of the people had green faces, she said.

At first, she thought he just had a great fondness for the color, but it eventually got to the point where she had to ask him whether he was doing it on purpose.

He was so confused, she said. He thought he was using a peach color.

Harboring a suspicion that her eldest child was color blind, Ashli took him to an ophthalmologist where those suspicions were confirmed.

While Drew says his diagnosis was not a contributing factor in his growing disinterest in art, it also did not help matters either.

It was sometimes very challenging for me because I could not distinguish between colors, he said.

He added that he primarily kept his drawings and sketches to himself.

Over the course of his freshman year, however, Drew began to blossom when Hallowes-Billiter came up with a method to help him use a color palate.

It opened a whole new opportunity for me, he said.

Shortly thereafter, he was moving away from his preferred palette of blues, blacks and whites and transitioning to vivid drawings of Spider-Man in action and bold Lamborghinis.

I started sharing my work and loved the reactions I got from it, Drew said. It kept me going because I wanted to impress them but eventually I started to impress myself.

Hallowes-Billiter said something just clicked within Drew this past year.

Hes on fire right now, she exclaimed.

With little to do because of COVID-19 restrictions, Drew began to express his frustrations and boredom on paper.

He would draw for hours, Ashli said.

One day, he shared some of his drawings with his friend, Zack Kaehr, and thus began the whirlwind that would lead to the artist retreat.

After looking over Drews artwork, Kaehr shared the pieces with his mother, Terri Ronna. Impressed by Drews skill, Ronna shared it with a friend and fellow art enthusiast, Craig Goldman. Equally impressed, Goldman shared those creations with Scott Jacobs, an artist who is considered a master of photorealism.

The way the story goes, Jacobs remarked on Drews talent and thought he would make a great student participant for his upcoming artist retreat.

Shocked, Drew told his mother who thought it was a joke.

I didnt mean it in a negative way, she laughed.

She said she just found it to be a surreal chain of events.

Its not every day a renowned artist shows interest in your sons work, she said.

Despite some misgiving, Ashli wanted her son to have the four-day immersive experience where he could pick the brain of Jacobs and learn more about the medium of his interest. Then they saw the cost of the retreat.

There was just so way we could afford that expense, Ashli said. I was just returning back to work, and the airfare, the accommodations, the retreat was just not in the cards.

When word got back to Goldman, the art enthusiast who is also a collector, he decided to sponsor Drews trip to Jacobss studio.

I couldnt believe that this was really happening to me, Drew said.

On May 12, Drew headed to South Dakota where he and several other students of various ages and skill levels painted with Jacobs, Jacobss daughter, Alexa, and artist Danial James. Participants learned advanced mixing techniques and other tricks of the trade, including how to network and get connections in the industry. It was immersive, eye-opening and completely life-changing.

Drew said he came away from the experience with a better appreciation for the craft and with more determination than ever to become a professional artist.

Hallowes-Billiter said she will not be surprised by the news when he reaches that goal.

I do not see a single limitation on him, she said.
Microsoft last week admitted that it would not, after all, launch Windows 10X  the concept OS it first touted in 2019 and months later morphed into a competitor to Chrome OS.

The admission confirmed a report earlier in the month by Petri.com, which cited "people familiar with the company's plans" to claim that 10X "will likely never arrive."

That report nailed it, Microsoft then confirmed.

"Instead of bringing a product called Windows 10X to market in 2021 like we originally intended, we are leveraging learnings from our journey thus far and accelerating the integration of key foundational 10X technology into other parts of Windows and products at the company," John Cable, the executive who leads the Windows servicing and delivery group, wrote in a May 18 post to a company blog.

Cable buried the 10X news in the back half of the announcement of Windows 10 21H1's launch that same day.

Windows Parts 'R Us

Microsoft's not known for rebutting rumors, but for ignoring sourced-from-inside-the-organization reports, especially those that rely, as many do, on the company's inner workings, on circumstantial evidence and/or outright speculation. Even rarer are the times Microsoft acknowledges setbacks from previously-announced plans.

No surprise there on any count. Running down industry chit-chat is like Whack-a-Mole at the arcade and confirming errors is, at best, embarrassing, at worst, potentially damaging to the stock price.

Windows 10X began as an October 2019 announcement, when Microsoft called the future operating system "the best of Windows 10 built to enable unique experiences on multi-posture dual-screen PCs." It was supposed to power a fresh hardware category of two-screen, foldable, tablet-notebook hybrids that Microsoft and its partners were to design.

Microsoft's entry, the Surface Neo, was later scratched.

In May 2020, Microsoft spun a different story, saying at the time that because "the world is a very different place than it was last October when we shared our vision for a new category of dual-screen Windows devices"  presumably referring to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent remote working, remote schooling  the new OS would be used to "pivot our focus toward single-screen Windows 10X devices that leverage the power of the cloud." To many, that sounded like a call to compete with Chrome OS and Chromebooks.

Thus, the latest 10X declaration was another in a line of expectation resets. Rather than a new streamlined OS running on a new kind of hardware, or one that emphasized cloud-based computing, Windows 10X would be, if anything, cannibalized for parts  digitally chop-shopped  with some bits parceled out to Windows 10 and others, presumably, simply scrapped.

Microsoft, of course, put it differently.

"Following a year-long exploration and engaging in conversations with customers, we realized that the technology of Windows 10X could be useful in more ways and serve more customers than we originally imagined," asserted Cable. "We concluded that the 10X technology shouldn't just be confined to a subset of customers."

Parse that however one will,but that's some serious chutzpah  telling customers just 19 months after broaching Windows 10X that the project, ahough dead, would live on as salvage handed to its Windows 10 ancestor because, well, that was simply the right thing to do.

Please.

There's no doubt circumstances changed between 10X's introduction and today. The fact everyone now knows the word pandemic and has memorized its definition are the proof. Virtually certain, too, is that customers queried by Microsoft told the company they had better things to do during the crisis than show interest in a new OS. Having been spurned, Microsoft decided to give customers 10X anyway, albeit in bits and pieces.

Nor, apparently, will Microsoft stop there.

Down with Windows 10! Up with Windows ... what?

Earlier this week, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella used a few tidbits of a 30-minute recorded keynote for the company's Build developer conference to tease future news of Windows. "And soon we will share one of the most significant updates to Windows of the past decade," Nadella said. "We look forward to sharing more very soon."

What that will be is unclear, although reports have been rife of a revamp of Windows user interface (UI) and user experience (UX), and of an event as early as June where Microsoft might unveil, if one takes Nadella at face value, changes more sweeping than those of 2015 when Windows 10 debuted.

It's more than a little odd that only days after acknowledging the unviability of one proposed OS evolution, Microsoft's chief executive promised yet another. (To be fair, by prefacing news of "one of the most significant updates" with the 10X admission, Microsoft at least shut the door on speculation that Nadella's pledged refresh was, in fact, of Windows 10X.)

But it is entirely in Microsoft's DNA to forge ahead on whatever it has planned for Windows, whether that's strictly a UI/UX overhaul or something more significant, like the abandonment of Windows 10, designated as the "last Windows ever" by its maker early on, for an 11 or 2022 successor later this year. (No surprise, but Microsoft has not uttered the "last Windows" line, a foolish promise to begin with, in years.) Microsoft has always tried to tart up Windows, make it sexier than it has a right to be as a PC operating system. That seems likely to continue.

If one asked IT admins to rank changes or improvements to Windows 10 and gave them a list that included "a new UI" or even the vague "five great new features," we'd wager that they'd drop them to the bottom. Change has always been anathema to enterprise, which values stability and utility above all; change is what's led to the tension between Microsoft and its commercial customers over the always-mutating, ever-updating Windows 10.

Signals that Microsoft understood customers' concerns came during 2020 and this year, with two consecutive minor upgrades. But those were quickly masked by the decision to halve support for the Long-term Support Channel edition of Windows 10, implying more, not less, change. And now comes whatever Nadella teased at Build? More change?

Computerworld has been increasingly puzzled by Microsoft's desire to continually rework, redesign, rebuild, refresh Windows  as if it catered to consumer-centric enthusiasts eager for more cult of the new  when its core customers, really its only customers that matter, want what they have now, only of better quality.

It appears that the demise of Windows 10X represents a brief glimpse at rationality. Small victories.
Singapore citizens, PRs require negative COVID test to return home

According to reports, Singaporeans and permanent residents (PRs) looking to return to the city-state will also have to present a valid negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test report obtained within 72 hours prior to their departure for Singapore, starting from 11.59 pm tomorrow.

Those who arrive in Singapore without a valid COVID-negative report may be denied entry, it added. Photo courtesy: CAG

Singapore's ministry of Health annaounced that all citizens and permanent residents will only be allowed to board their flights to Singapore on presenting the negative test results before departure, except for those who have stayed in lower-risk countries and regions in the last 21 days.

The lower-risk countries and regions are Australia, Brunei, mainland China, New Zealand, Hong Kong and Macau, according to Singaporean media reports.

The Singapore government has recently said on an average, 25 passengers, mostly Singaporean citizens and PRs, were returning home daily from India.

"All travellers will also be required to present their valid COVID-19 PCR test result at the air, sea and land checkpoints when they arrive in Singapore," the ministry said.

Those who arrive in Singapore without a valid COVID-negative report may be denied entry, it added. Permanent residents and long-term pass holders who fail to comply may also have their permits or passes cancelled, the ministry warned.

Cargo drivers and other accompanying people transporting goods between Singapore and Malaysia will continue to be subjected to an on-arrival rapid-antigen test at the Tuas and Woodlands (land) checkpoints. They will only be allowed to enter Singapore if they receive a negative test report. They will not be required to take a pre-departure PCR test, the ministry said.

Since November last year, Singapore has required all long-term pass holders and short-term pass visitors entering the country to present a valid negative COVID-19 PCR test report obtained within 72 hours before their departure.

The health ministry said it has put in place advisories on overseas travel for "some time now", and that Singaporeans and PRs abroad "would have had more time to manage the risks of COVID-19 in the countries that they are in".

Travellers from lower-risk countries and regions are either required to take a COVID-19 test upon arrival in lieu of a stay-home notice or serve a seven-day stay-home notice at their place of residence with a COVID-19 test administered at the end of the notice.

Travellers who test positive on their COVID-19 PCR test should seek appropriate medical care and ensure that they have fully recovered and are non-infectious before travelling to Singapore, the ministry said.

"Singaporeans who test positive for COVID-19 while overseas and require urgent medical care in Singapore can still return to Singapore via a medevac flight or other equivalent forms of conveyance," it added.

Since November last year, Singapore has required all long-term pass holders and short-term pass visitors entering the country to present a valid negative COVID-19 PCR test report obtained within 72 hours before their departure. Photo courtesy: MOH

The ministry said the multi-ministry task force has been closely monitoring the global COVID-19 situation and regularly reviewing border measures.

"In recent weeks, the global situation has worsened and we have observed the emergence of new and potentially more infectious variants. To manage the risk of imported cases and onward transmission within our community, we will be updating our pre-departure testing requirements," it said.

Singapore reported 26 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday - 23 in the community, one in a dormitory housing foreign workers here and two imported infections.
05/27/2021

Photo (c) Anton Petrus - Getty Images Coronavirus (COVID-19) tally as compiled by Johns Hopkins University. (Previous numbers in parentheses.)

Total U.S. confirmed cases: 33,192,974 (33,171,024)

Total U.S. deaths: 592,432 (591,116)

Total global cases: 168,520,476 (167,961,302)

Total global deaths: 3,500,945 (3,488,454)

FDA gives emergency approval to new treatment drug

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted emergency use authorization (EUA) to a new coronavirus treatment drug made by GlaxoSmithKline and Vir Biotechnology. The monoclonal antibody drug has been shown to be effective in treating early COVID-19 infections.

The drug, called sotrovimab, is the third antibody product that the FDA has authorized to treat patients in the early stages of the disease but who may be vulnerable to a severe case.

Monoclonal antibodies like sotrovimab are potentially one of our most effective tools for fighting COVID-19, said Dr. Adrienne E. Shapiro, an infectious disease specialist at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. While preventive measures, including vaccines, can reduce the total number of cases, sotrovimab is an important treatment option for those who become ill with COVID-19 and are at high risk.

Getting to the bottom of COVID-19s origin

President Biden has ordered U.S. intelligence services to investigate the origins of the COVID-19 virus and report within 90 days. Specifically, he wants to know whether the virus is natural or man-made.

It was initially believed that the virus occurred in an animal in a live market in Wuhan, China, and spread to humans. However, from the start, there has been speculation that the virus escaped from a lab that was conducting research on vaccines.

The Wall Street Journal cites a U.S. intelligence report suggesting that three researchers at Chinas Wuhan Institute of Virology were so ill in November 2019, that they were hospitalized. The first official case of COVID-19 was reported in Wuhan the following month.

Claims for jobless benefits still falling

As businesses struggle to find employees to meet the demands of reopening, fewer Americans are filing for unemployment. The Labor Department reports that initial claims for jobless benefits fell even more last week to 404,000.

Thats a decline of 38,000 from the previous week, which was even lower than the week before. In fact, claims have been steadily falling since the economy began to reopen last month.

The number of Americans who previously filed for benefits and are still receiving them also continues to fall. Continuing claims last week totaled 15,802,126, a decrease of 175,255 from the previous week.

Disneyland ready to reopen to non-California residents

In another sign that things are starting to get back to normal, Disneyland -- which was closed for much of the last 14 months -- will allow non-California residents into the park near Los Angeles starting June 15.

Only residents of California have been admitted since the park reopened a month ago in an effort to limit group sizes and mitigate risks from the coronavirus.

In a blog post, Disney said the state of California strongly recommends that all guests be fully vaccinated or obtain a negative COVID-19 test prior to entering the theme park. In addition, all guests will be required to wear an approved face-covering throughout their visit at the Disneyland Resort.

CVS offers vaccination rewards

CVS Health is the latest brand to offer incentives to its customers who get a COVID-19 vaccination. The pharmacy retailer has announced that beginning June 1, eligible customers who received or plan to receive a COVID-19 vaccination through CVS Health may choose to enter the #OneStepCloser sweepstakes.

Entrants will have an opportunity to win one of over a thousand prizes through weekly drawings and grand prizes over a six-week period.

"We're grateful for the millions of people who've received one of the well over 17 million doses we've administered at CVS Health, but we have a long way to go," said Dr. Kyu Rhee, senior vice president and a chief medical officer of CVS Health. "Getting as much of the population fully vaccinated will bring us one step closer to all the things we've missed during the past 14 months, and keep our country moving in the right direction."

Around the nation
05/27/2021

Photo (c) sx70 - Getty Images By now, just about everyone on the planet has a cell phone or smartphone. For wireless companies like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile to gain new subscribers, they usually have to take them from their competitors.

All three companies offer generous sign-up incentives and make boasts about their coverage area, but is one of these companies better than the others? When we checked the overall ratings ConsumerAffairs reviewers gave the big three, we found that not a lot separates them in their customers eyes.

Based on 693 reviews, ConsumerAffairs reviewers give AT&T a rating of 3.2 stars. Its slightly ahead of Verizon, with 3 stars based on 961 reviews. Both trail the newly combined T-Mobile and Sprint entity with 3.3 stars, based on 704 reviews.

With the big three virtually neck-and-neck, we decided to do a deep dive into the reviews to see what reviewers like and dislike about the companies and see if any themes emerge.

AT&T

Farhad, of Seattle, was a very unhappy AT&T customer when he posted a 1-star review to our site in April.

After almost 18 years with AT&T wireless service, I am forced to cut the tie, Farhad wrote. The reason is pretty simple. It is due to their poor customer service, un-helpful management and not to mention their outrageously high service rates. While their service is ok, their agents mislead customers to add plan that supposedly would reduce my monthly cost, instead it went up.

There are several 1-star reviews in which the main complaint was a promotion not living up to how it was presented. While its possible that customers misunderstood how it worked, it does suggest that the pitches often lead to misunderstandings.

I transferred cellular service from Verizon wireless August 5, 2020, enticed by a $700 offer to trade in my and my wifes cell phones and port our numbers to AT&T wireless, James, of Covington, Georgia, wrote in a ConsumerAffairs post. The offer was supposed to go into effect 60 days from the date I signed up. I have made numerous attempts to get AT&T to resolve this issue, they even gave me a case number and promised it would be taken care of by January 4, 2021. I am getting the runaround but not the credits for moving my services to AT&T.

But Sonia, a reviewer from Houston, gave AT&T a 5-star review after she switched from another company.

I have great service, she wrote. I used to have another provider but I used to lose signal all the time and it wasn't cheap. So now with my provider, I have service and haven't had any issues on signal or anything. Plus I get my devices and on a way that I can afford to pay. Am happy with it.

Patricia of Warrenville, Illinois, found something to complain about even as she gave AT&T a 5-star review.

I love the service, have never had any problems, she wrote. Very few calls dropped. However, I do feel their plans are expensive compared to others. Customer service is also good. Selection of phones is very good.

Verizon

Verizon has its share of 1-star reviews, with common complaints being made about mistakes on bills and customer service. Charles, of Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania, said he liked the coverage area Verizon provided but finally couldnt put up with the level of customer service he received.

It is impossible to get through to a person who can actually do something about Verizon's mistakes, Charles wrote. And when you try it will eat up gobs of your time and leave you frustrated and defeated.

Charles wrote that the last straw was when the company billed him $13,000 instead of his normal $124 a month. He said customer service reps he communicated with agreed it had to be a mistake, but no one could do anything about it.

Misty, of St. Augustine, Florida, had just the opposite experience. She wrote in a 5-star review that she called Verizon in tears about her bill.

I spoke with Shantelle, Misty wrote. She listened to me cry as I explained my situation. Before anything else she made sure I was ok and spoke to me in a calm voice. Once I was ok she went on to address my issues. So many times she assured me it would be ok. She took care of every single issue and even a few I myself didn't see! I truly felt cared about by the end of our conversation. She definitely changed my feelings.

There appear to be very few complaints about Verizons coverage area. Most of the dissatisfaction appears to stem from frustration in trying to resolve some kind of issue with a phone or plan.

T-Mobile

Customer service is a common complaint in 1-star reviews of T-Mobile, which recently merged with Sprint. Sometimes well receive a complaint about a particular store from one reviewer, but then well receive a positive review from someone in another city who will praise the local store in a 5-star review. Like the other two major carriers, misunderstandings about plans show up in some T-Mobile reviews.

T-Mobile ran a promo to receive free phones, via monthly credits for every old phone number ported in, writes Erick, of St. George, Utah. The T-Mobile rep confirmed our phones were eligible and ported the numbers for us.

Erick said the first bill was correct but that the second one included a charge for one of the free phones.

Subsequent follow-up was told we werent told, though should have been, that our phones werent eligible for the free phone promo, Erick said.

Rona, of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, gave T-Mobile a 5-star review in which she said shes happy with both the service and her plans terms.

All unlimited, no slowdowns or sharing for considerably less than any other provider, Rona wrote in her ConsumerAffairs post. They are always willing to change us to the best available deal all with no contract. They don't need to lock you in. You stay because your bill is always right, perfect connection anywhere.

Do your research and choose the best plan for you

When it comes to the big three wireless providers, some consumers have encountered problems while others havent. Complaints about customer service appear common in all three.

When it comes to selecting a wireless provider, give strong consideration to the monthly cost and the providers coverage area where you live. If you are considering a special promotion, make sure you completely understand it and ask questions.

As you do your research, be sure to check out ConsumerAffairs guide to wireless services, which also includes reviews for some independent providers.
Chinese smart home appliances improve user experience for overseas consumers

10:04, May 27, 2021 By Li Qiang ( People's Daily

Yannick Fierling, CEO of Haier Europe, introduces Haier smart home appliances at the Internationale Funkausstellung Berlin in September, 2020. (People's Daily/Li Qiang)

Many Europeans love taking a sip of the wines from the collection in their cabinets when they get home. Now such experience is made smarter by an intelligent wine cabinet co-produced by renowned Chinese home appliance manufacturer Haier and the world's largest online wine dealer Vivino.

The cabinet, which was exhibited at the Internationale Funkausstellung Berlin last year together with many other new home appliances and solutions, is able to recognize over 1,000 wine brands, as well as the years and locations of production. It can also be connected to a Haier phone application through which users can buy and manage wines.

The open ecosystem built by Haier has enabled interaction between appliances and users, said Yannick Fierling, CEO of Haier Europe.

Smart home appliances emerged in recent year with the thriving technologies of internet of things, cloud computing and AI, and the COVID-19 pandemic further raised European users' requirements on the health-friendliness and intelligence of home appliances.

Last June, Haier Europe launched a smart home application on which users can manage home appliances manufactured by Haier and its subsidiary brands. The application also offers immersive interaction solutions and has received two million users.

Fierling told People's Daily that Haier's business maintained rapid growth in Europe despite of the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, the sales of high-end home appliances increased 20 percent to 30 percent from 2019, the highest in the industry in Europe.

Apart from building smart ecosystems on the continent, Haier is also working to expand its overseas production capacity. It is reported that a refrigeration production facility of Haier Europe will be put into operation this June in Romania. The plant, with an investment of more than 70 million euros ($85.7 million), employs over 30 robots and is able to produce a million sets of refrigerators on a yearly basis.

Alessia Ianni, Cooling Technical Operation Director at Haier Europe and Managing Director at Haier Tech Romania noted that the plant will play a pivotal role in Haier's smart home strategy in Europe for its strong capabilities in production, technological transformation and logistics, helping the manufacturer become one of the industrial leaders.

Relying on its solid strength of R&D, production and brand effect, Haier is gaining an increasingly larger influence among European consumers. In recent years, the Chinese manufacturer has won multiple European awards, including the Red Dot Design Award and the Industry 4.0 Award.

Last September, Haier was rated the Shooting Star of the Year in the Customer Recommendation 2020 by German media outlet Handelsblatt, for its brand performance in five assessment dimensions such as general impression, quality, customer satisfaction, value for money and employer image.

Being green, intelligent and sophisticated, "made-in-China" products have reinforced technologies, improved quality and made their names. They are recognized and welcomed by more and more overseas consumers.

Acquiring advanced technologies in core areas and striving to become global industrial leaders, Chinese brands are gaining a firm foothold in the international market.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
Well folks, it seems social media maven, shapewear mogul, and former K9 magazine cover girl has hit a snag in achieving her dream of becoming a lawyer  failing the baby bar exam.

"So you guys, I did not pass the baby bar," Kardashian said in a teaser clip for an upcoming episode of Keeping Up With the Kardashians, referencing an exam she says is required after the first year of her four-year law degree program. "This one actually is harder, I hear, than the official bar," she continued.

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Although Kardashian may not have passed the test, the star, whose father, Robert Kardashian notably represented O.J. Simpson during the athlete's 1995 murder trial was extremely close, according to human rights attorney Jessica Jackson, who told the celebrity her score in a flashback included in the video. "That's extremely close on a test that most people are not taking in the middle of a pandemic," Jackson explained.

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Despite the extreme circumstances that may have led to her failing the test, Kardashian says she's still disappointed nonetheless. I am a failure, the star said. I spent, you know, six weeks straight, ten to twelve hours a day studying and it was so important for me to take this and to not pass gets your spirits down. It makes you want to give up."
A pro-life activist is calling for Dr. Anthony Fauci to testify before the U.S. Congress about his knowledge of federal funding awarded to a Pennsylvania university conducting experiments on human fetal tissue, including one experiment where illegally aborted babies' scalps were grafted onto lab rats.

David Daleiden, the founder of the pro-life activist group Center for Medical Progress, said on Fox News last Thursday that the director of the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases should testify about the nearly $500,000 grant his agency awarded to the University of Pittsburgh to conduct research using aborted babies scalps.

Daleiden wants Congress to ask Fauci, the most prominent figure overseeing the U.S. coronavirus response, if he knew of potentially illegal actions taken by the institution.
After the expiration of his license in July, a man in Minnesota has decided to leave his job as a realtor because of his Christian belief over LGBT arguments.

Realtor Matt Moore requested for prayers and shared his predicament in a series of tweets.

"Would you pray for my wife and me as we seek God's will for what's next? This week my broker informed me that I cannot continue to talk publicly about Christian views re: LGBTQ+ issues if I want to remain with this brokerage. As of July 1st, I will no longer be a realtor," he wrote on Twitter.

Would you pray for my wife and me as we seek God's will for what's next? This week my broker informed me that I cannot continue to talk publicly about Christian views re: LGBTQ+ issues if I want to remain with this brokerage.

As of July 1st, I will no longer be a realtor. 1/  Matt Moore (@onemoorematt) May 21, 2021

Moore went on to say that there are other brokerage companies in their place but due to change in Code of Ethics of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), his public opinion on LGBT issues might pose a concern. He added the link of his open letter to the association, calling for NAR to amend its policy change "as it did prior to November 13, 2020."

"So, my wife and I have decided it's time to move on from real estate. We aren't angry about this. Sure, it's thrown a wrench into our plans. But God's plan is still in place. He will direct us in the way we should go, and we are excited to see where that will be," he also said.

In the open letter posted on his website last December, Moore explained that the adoption of Standard of Practice 10-5 and revision of Policy Statement 29 might "foster discrimination" against Christian realtors.

The Standard of Practice 10-5 states that, "REALTORS must not use harassing speech, hate speech, epithets, or slurs based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity."

On the other hand, the change in Policy Statement 29 says that realtors would now be subject to disciplinary action in "all of their activities" in accordance with the association's Code of Ethics.

In the association's former policy, though realtors are encouraged to abide by the principles of its Code of Ethics in all their activities, disciplinary action would only apply to actions relative to the realtors' "real estate-related activities and transactions."

Moore argued that because of the modification, the Code of Ethics would now apply to realtors' "entire life," which means that they could be reported for "any perceived commission of hate speech" against "a protected class" in all areas of their lives, or even with their statements on personal social media accounts.

He added that the claim could be reported just by anyone and if it reaches the Hearing Panel and determined that the statement is a "hate speech," the real estate agent would then be subject to disciplinary action. The discipline, he said, would entail a number of punishments such as undergoing a continuing education, fines of $15,000, MLS privilege termination, suspension of termination of membership, among others.

He was troubled that, with these changes, realtors who articulate their Christian views on LGBTQ would be targeted by hate speech allegations.

The real estate agent also reiterated his concern to Faithwire.

"My current broker will not allow me to continue working under her ... if I continue to speak publicly about LGBTQ+ issues," he said.

Though there are other brokerage firms owned by Christians in Twin Cities, he is bothered that his statements about "biblical views on sexuality and gender" would be an issue since he does it often as part of his "history and ministry."

"If a broker did decide to carry my license, they would also be hit by any future arrows that are shot my way. They would be putting their own businesses, NAR membership (which is more vital than you might think), and potentially even their licenses at risk," Moore further stated.
Parents of students at a private Catholic school in Chicago are raising concerns that woke ideology that has infiltrated secular schools has also extended into Catholic schools despite its apparent contradictions with the Catholic Church's teachings, according to Noelle Mering, a scholar with the Ethics & Public Policy Center.

Mering wrote an op-ed for The National Catholic Register last week, outlining how the woke toxicity of critical race theory assaults the Catholic Churchs teachings by promoting a rejection of the person, a rejection of reason and a rejection of reverence.

She elaborated on the incompatibility between woke ideology and the Catholic Church's teachings in an interview with The Christian Post.

The Christian message is that people are defined by the love of God, and the woke message is that people are defined by the hatred of society, she said. From that implies two very different courses of action.

Source:The Christian Post
It seems as if the nation of Israel is always in the news, but with the recent conflict with Hamas resulting in the worst violence in nearly a decade  currently in a fragile ceasefire  they are front and center as never before.

Many Christians dont know what to think about Israel. Few have more than a superficial understanding of the Israel of the Old Testament, and how that nation and people factored into things. After that, they really dont know what became of it.

Things become even less clear with modern-day Israel. Is it the same nation, the same chosen people, the same Promised Land established by God? It gets even fuzzier when pressed on how Israel and the Jewish people factor into all things end times.

Obviously, delving into all things Israel and the Jewish people is too much for one blog. Too much for even a single book. But what can be succinctly put forward are two things: understanding Israel as a nation in the Old Testament, and then understanding Israel as a modern-day nation-state. Both are foundational for any and all subsequent explorations.

Lets begin with the Israel of old. The Jewish people began with the calling of Abram, to be sure, but as a nation, we look to the time of Moses.

Moses led the people of Israel out of Egyptian bondage and toward the Promised Land. He then handed the leadership baton off to a man named Joshua, who led the people to possess the land.

They were then ruled by various judges until the time they appointed their first king, a man by the name of Saul, who was followed by one of the greatest leaders and kings in all of human history, King David. David started off winning a fight against the giant Goliath and ended up establishing Israel as the premiere force in that part of the world.

David had a son named Solomona man who made his own mark through his incredible God-given wisdom. He is known as the wisest man to have ever lived. Through that wisdom, he built off of his father Davids success and led Israel to such military and economic prominence that kings and queens came from around the world just to marvel and learn. The reigns of David and then Solomon constituted what can only be called a golden age for Israel.

When Solomon died his son, Rehoboam (Davids grandson), came to the throne, standing in the line of kings ready to lead Israel forward to even greater heights. And then, in a single event, everything was lost.

As the people prepared to install him as king, they made but one request. Due to the rapid expansion of the nation, the people had been heavily taxed and large numbers of workers had been conscripted for labor. Could Rehoboam, as the new king, inaugurate his reign through an act of kindness, compassion and sensitivity and consider lowering taxes and reducing the amount of forced laboreven if only for a season?

It was an incredible opportunity to curry favor and win loyalty. Yet he refused. To paraphrase his response: You want lower taxes and you want less work, do you? Then take this: Im going to raise taxes and work you even harder!

As a result, civil war broke out and divided the kingdom. Ten of the 12 tribes of Israel revolted and eventually formed the Northern Kingdom of Israel; only two of the 12 tribes stayed loyal to Rehoboam, forming the Southern Kingdom of Judah.

This led to ever-increasing levels of political, cultural and spiritual breakdown in both the North and the South, ushering in the prophetic era where God sent prophet after prophet to call the people back to political, cultural and spiritual sanity. Unfortunately, the breakdown was so complete that, by and large, the words of the prophets fell on deaf ears. This led to prophetic calls of repentance becoming prophetic declarations of doom.

A 350-year decline was set in motion, culminating in exile for both the Northern and Southern kingdoms. The North fell to the Assyrians in 722 B.C., and the South to the Babylonians in 586 B.C., with the Temple and the holy city of Jerusalem left sacked.

The Northern Kingdom was lost forever, and only a remnant from the Southern Kingdom was able to return from their exile in Babylon to the Promised Land to reestablish the Jewish homeland and wait for the Messiah.

And that, in effect, ends the history of the Old Testament.

The story of the Bible does not pick up again until the time of the coming of that Messiah  Jesus  in the New Testament. The Israel that He inhabited was populated by the remnant from the Southern Kingdom allowed to return from Babylon. By this time, the area was ruled by Rome.

That is a precis of the socio-political story of the nation of Israel in regard to the Bible. The story of Israel today is somewhat different, and will be the subject of my next blog.

James Emery White



About the Author

James Emery White is the founding and senior pastor of Mecklenburg Community Church in Charlotte, NC, and the ranked adjunct professor of theology and culture at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, where he also served as their fourth president. His latest book After I Believe is now available on Amazon or your favorite bookseller. To enjoy a free subscription to the Church & Culture blog, visit ChurchAndCulture.org, where you can view past blogs in our archive and read the latest church and culture news from around the world. Follow Dr. White on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @JamesEmeryWhite.
BRIDGEPORT  Even as he faces federal charges for allegedly trying to fraudulently obtain public campaign grants, state Sen. Dennis Bradley has another elections probe hanging over his head.

According to Connecticuts Elections Enforcement Commission, the agency continues to consider allegations the Bridgeport Democrat in 2017 offered a then-Stratford mayoral candidate a $5,000 contribution for a position with that town.

That case is still pending with us, Joshua Foley, an SEEC spokesman, said Thursday.

It was another SEEC investigation, this one into a 2018 fundraiser for Bradleys successful legislative bid, that led to his arrest Tuesday on related charges.

Although under state statute any complaints received on or after Jan. 1, 2018 are to be automatically dismissed if the commission fails to issue a decision within a year, the regulation provides four exemptions to account for delays.

These includes situations caused by: the commission or its staff granting an extension to a respondent; the issuance of a subpoena in connection with a complaint; litigation in state or federal court related to a complaint; any investigation by, or consultation of the commission or commission staff with, the Chief State's Attorney, the Attorney General, the United States Department of Justice or the United States Attorney for Connecticut.

Neither Bradley, who previously denied any wrongdoing in a 2018 interview with Hearst Connecticut Media, nor his attorney, James Glasser, returned requests for comment Thursday.

The complaint regarding the $5,000 contribution was filed in April 2018 by Aaron Turner, who lost that years Democratic primary for the state Senate seat representing the 23rd District to Bradley.

Turner on Wednesday declined to comment, but in an interview three years ago had said that after being provided the text exchange, his campaign sought legal advice and turned the information over to the state because things look fishy here  the amount of money offered in exchange for something, by a sitting public official.

Bradley at that time was serving as chairman of Bridgeports school board.

As Hearst reported in 2018, screen shots of an alleged Oct. 4, 2017 text exchange involving Bradley cited in Turners complaint appeared to show Bradleys offer to give Stratford mayoral contender Stephanie Philips campaign $5,000 was rebuffed by Philips and her supporters Shawn Sequeira and Emma Brooks.

According to the text screen shots Turner provided the SEEC, Bradley allegedly wrote Philips, Sequeira and Brooks: Publicly committing $5,000 tomorrow. In exchange I need the following.

That in exchange list included a handful of items, some of which would help the Bridgeport-based Bradleys name recognition among Stratford voters since a portion of the 23rd Senate District includes that town: Philips endorsement of Bradleys Senate bid; adding my boy Tran (then-Stratford council candidate Bieu Tran) to Philips campaign literature; and Philips hiring of Bradley, should she be elected mayor, to a position that allows me to have people know my name.

Dont need big money, Bradley allegedly wrote. Just access to the people.

Lastly Bradley allegedly sought to join Philips when she campaigned in Stratfords South End.

I need everyone to affirm that we are on board and Shawn can pick up the checks tomorrow, Bradley allegedly wrote Philips, Sequeira and Brooks. Looking forward for the big win.

All three allegedly condemned Bradley.

Dennis, this group text is very inappropriate and I am surprised you would handle yourself in this manner. I will not comment further, Philips apparently responded.

Philips campaign finance reports also did not list any money being received from Bradley.

Sequeira, according to Turners complaint, allegedly responded to Bradleys texts, Rest. You need a serious discussion.

And Brooks allegedly replied, I want no part of this either.

Bradley in a May 2018 interview about Turners complaint, first said he did not recall the texts.

Never have I said that to Stephanie. Nor do I do politics that way, Bradley said.

But he then said the texts were being taken out of context.

Its clearly slanting words and mincing words to paint this illusion Dennis Bradley is doing something that is wrong, Bradley said.

Bradley, an attorney, further argued that not only would he not break the law, but it would make no sense to have a text exchange suggesting something illegal with a law enforcement officer  Sequeira, Sheltons police chief.

Its obviously, from Aarons (Turners) side, a desperate attempt to try to defame me, Bradley had said. I know the good people of Bridgeport and Stratford who have seen my good deeds, the help I give, are going to say, This is just not accurate.

Reached Thursday, Sequeira had no comment. And Philips said she had thought Turners complaint was closed by the SEEC with no action taken.

This is the first Im hearing theyre calling it pending, Philips said. I havent been involved with Dennis at all following that text message.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Senate Republicans are poised to block the creation of a special commission to study the deadly Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, dashing hopes for a bipartisan panel amid a GOP push to put the violent insurrection by Donald Trumps supporters behind them.

Broad Republican opposition was expected in what would be the first successful Senate filibuster of the Biden presidency, even as the family of a Capitol Police officer who collapsed and died after the siege and other officers who battled rioters went office to office asking GOP senators to support the commission. The insurrection was the worst attack on the Capitol in 200 years and interrupted the certification of Democrat Joe Biden's win over Trump.

A vote on the procedural motion was expected Friday, potentially in the overnight hours, after delays on an unrelated bill to boost scientific research and development pushed back the schedule.

Though the bill passed the House earlier this month with the support of almost three dozen Republicans, GOP senators said they believe the commission would eventually be used against them politically. And former President Trump, who still has a firm hold on the party, has called it a Democrat trap.

The expected vote is emblematic of the profound mistrust between the two parties since the siege, which has sowed deeper divisions on Capitol Hill even though lawmakers in the two parties fled together from the rioters that day. The events of Jan. 6 have become an increasingly fraught topic among Republicans as some in the party have downplayed the violence and defended the rioters who supported Trump and his false insistence that the election was stolen from him.

While initially saying he was open to the idea of the commission, which would be modeled after an investigation of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell turned firmly against it in recent days. He has said he believes the panel's investigation would be partisan despite the even split among party members.

McConnell, who once said Trump was responsible for provoking the mob attack on the Capitol, said of Democrats, Theyd like to continue to litigate the former president, into the future.

Still, a handful of Republicans  if not enough to save it  were expected to vote to move forward with the bill. Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski has said she will support the legislation because she needs to know more about what happened that day and why.

Truth is hard stuff, but weve got a responsibility to it, she told reporters Thursday evening. We just cant pretend that nothing bad happened, or that people just got too excitable. Something bad happened. And its important to lay that out.

Of her colleagues opposing the commission, Murkowski said some are concerned that we dont want to rock the boat.

The Republican opposition to the bipartisan panel has revived Democratic pressure to do away with the filibuster, a time-honored Senate tradition that requires a vote by 60 of the 100 senators to cut off debate and advance a bill. With the Senate evenly split 50-50, Democrats need support of 10 Republicans to move to the commission bill, sparking fresh debate over whether the time has come to change the rules and lower the threshold to 51 votes to take up legislation.

The Republicans' political arguments over the violent siege  which is still raw for many in the Capitol, almost five months later  have frustrated not only Democrats but also those who fought off the rioters.

Michael Fanone, a Metropolitan Police Department officer who responded to the attack, said between meetings with Republican senators that a commission is necessary for us to heal as a nation from the trauma that we all experienced that day. Fanone has described being dragged down the Capitol steps by rioters who shocked him with a stun gun and beat him.

Sandra Garza, the girlfriend of Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick, who collapsed and died after battling the rioters, said of the Republican senators, You know they are here today and with their families and comfortable because of the actions of law enforcement that day."

So I dont understand why they would resist getting to the bottom of what happened that day and fully understanding how to prevent it. Just boggles my mind, she said.

Video of the rioting shows two men spraying Sicknick and another officer with a chemical, but the Washington medical examiner said he suffered a stroke and died from natural causes.

Garza attended the meetings with Sicknicks mother, Gladys Sicknick. In a statement Wednesday, Mrs. Sicknick suggested the opponents of the commission "visit my sons grave in Arlington National Cemetery and, while there, think about what their hurtful decisions will do to those officers who will be there for them going forward.

Dozens of other police officers were injured as the rioters pushed past them, breaking through windows and doors and hunting for lawmakers. The protesters constructed a mock gallows in front of the Capitol and called for the hanging of Vice President Mike Pence, who was overseeing the certification of the presidential vote. Four protesters died, including a woman who was shot and killed by police as she tried to break into the House chamber with lawmakers still inside.

We have a mob overtake the Capitol, and we cant get the Republicans to join us in making historic record of that event? That is sad, said Sen. Dick Durbin of Illinois, the No. 2 Senate Democrat. That tells you whats wrong with the Senate and whats wrong with the filibuster.

Many Democrats are warning that if Republicans are willing to use the filibuster to stop an arguably popular measure, it shows the limits of trying to broker compromises, particularly on bills related to election reforms or other aspects of the Democrats' agenda.

For now, though, Democrats don't have the votes to change the rule. West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin and Arizona Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, both moderate Democrats, have said they want to preserve the filibuster.

The commission has received support from government officials outside Congress, as well. On Thursday, four former secretaries of Homeland Security who served under Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama  Tom Ridge, Michael Chertoff, Janet Napolitano and Jeh Johnson  issued a statement saying a commission is necessary to "ensure the peaceful transfer of power in our country is never so threatened again.

Biden, asked about the commission at a stop in Cleveland, said Thursday, I cant imagine anyone voting against it.

In a last-ditch effort to persuade some of her Republican colleagues to save the bill, Maine Sen. Susan Collins drafted an amendment this week that would ensure that commission staff were hired on a bipartisan basis and that the panel was disbanded at the beginning of 2022, before the election cycle is fully underway. But her effort failed to win over many colleagues.

Republican Texas Sen. John Cornyn, who once supported the idea of the commission, said he now believes Democrats are trying to use it as a political tool.

I dont think this is the only way to get to the bottom of what happened, Cornyn said, noting that Senate committees are also looking at the siege.

___

Associated Press writers Alan Fram, Colleen Long and Padmananda Rama contributed to this report.
BRIDGEPORT  Eugene EJ McKnight was identified as a suspect in a recent shooting on the Route 25/8 Connector, in part thanks to technology, police said.

They said McKnight had been wearing a GPS tracking device ever since his release on home invasion and gun charges, and it placed him right at the time and place of the shooting.

McKnight, 37, was arrested Thursday morning in Norwalk by the U.S. Marshals Service, Connecticut Department of Probation and Norwalk police.

He was charged with first-degree assault, criminal possession of a gun and possession of a gun in a motor vehicle.

During McKnights arraignment hearing Thursday morning, he was ordered held in lieu of $500,000 bond by Superior Court Judge Earl Richards who continued the case to June 3.

According to court records, McKnight was released on a total of $251,000 bond following arrests in September 2017 in West Haven for an alleged home invasion and assault and in August 2018 in Bridgeport on gun charges on the condition that he wear a GPS anklet tracking device.

Frank Riccio II, McKnights lawyer in the West Haven case, declined comment.

Police said on March 20, a local man was driving on the Connector shortly before 4 p.m. when his car was riddled with gunfire, apparently from a passing Ford Mustang.

The victim, wounded in the abdomen, managed to drive himself to St. Vincents Medical Center, police said. The victims car, which he left parked outside the hospital, had five bullet holes in its passenger side.

Police said the victim told them he did not see the shooter and that whoever shot him had blindsided him.

They said the victim told them that a short time before the shooting, he had driven to the Greene Homes housing project to buy some weed from my boy.

Police said witnesses pointed them in the direction of McKnight being the shooter. When they checked the readout on McKnights GPS tracker, police said it showed he had been at the Greene Homes at the same time as the victim and then had been in the northbound lane of the Connector where and when the shooting had taken place.
WINDSOR  More than 100 employees at the Amazon site under construction have been interviewed in connection with the eight nooses found at the facility since late last month.

The reward for information leading authorities to those responsible for the incidents recently doubled to $100,000, Capt. Andrew Power said.

Windsor police and Connecticut State Police continue to investigate what Power called potential hate crime incidents at the Amazon construction site at 1201 Kennedy Road, dating back to April 27. In the month since, a total of eight nooses have been found at the site, the latest on Wednesday.

Power said this noose was found entangled with electrical cords used for job site lighting.

These cords had not been used for more than two weeks and were being stored on a pallet amongst other electrical equipment on the floor, Power said Wednesday. Today, when a worker went to detangle the light cords he discovered a short piece of rope which had a noose tied to one end. He immediately reported it and officers on site responded.

The site, where another noose was found on May 19, had just reopened Monday. But work halted at the site again Wednesday as law enforcment officers with the FBI and state police, along with local officers, investigated.

When the site was closed last week through Monday, additional police personnel were brought in and more security cameras were installed, Mayor Donald Trinks said earlier this week.

Power said over 100 site workerse have been interviewed. No arrests have been made.

RC Anderson, the site developer, started hiring several private duty Windsor police officers each day starting on April 30, Power said. He said officers are also providing job site security during non-work hours and Amazon has added additional private security on site.

Amazon and the site development team have been accomdating law enforcement requrests to help police continue their investigation, Power said.

These acts of hate and intimidation have no place in Windsor, said a statement from Windsor Town Manager Peter Souza. We continue our efforts with the FBI and Connecticut State Police to investigate and find the person or persons responsible.

Power said Windsor is a town that prides itself on being diverse and inclusive.

These incidents do not represent the character of our community, he said. We stand united in condemning these acts that are hateful and intolerant. Nooses are hateful and are intended to inflict emotional pain to persons of color. We stand with all of our residents to strengthen Windsors inclusiveness were every person is welcomed and valued.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Windsor 860-688-5273.
Mario Murillo explains why a certain kind of people he calls "wounded healers," despite their lack of a perfect track record, are God's secret weapon set to be unleashed, soon.

The California minister describes them as "not the sanitized, immaculate version of the Body of Christ."

"They have messed up and then gotten back up. Trampled and left for dead, God restored them! They have no image to protect or ego to wound. They are the most dangerous people that Satan will ever face!" he wrote last Tuesday.

He explained that such is their case because the furnace of affliction has given them all new appetites. Consequently, they are uninterested in "glory, titles, and awards."

Their focus is to demonstrate compassion and to invite others to do the same.

Because they have gone to the Cross, nothing can get them to argue about Christian dogma. They are aware of the Blood that purchased them and then resurrected them.

"You cannot find such zeal in religious do-gooders who never brave beyond ivied halls of respectability," observed Murillo. "You will not find this flame in the bleachers where the cold souls sit and keep score, but who will never take the field."

Characteristics of Wounded Healers

" Wounded healers do not boast of clean uniforms and of battles evaded, but of scars and gates of hell invaded."

Murillo explained the nuance of Daniel 11:32 in relation to Daniel 35, saying that today's attacks are not designed to "destroy," but rather to "purify" the faithful, that "rejection and abandonment" are not intended for "shame," but for "purity," and that it does not matter how Pharisees see their garments as long as they are "white before God."

Despite religious voices disqualifying them, the preacher continued, their destiny will be settled at a later time, adding that the door that God opens will stay open.

"Wounded Healers are able to reach the masses that the regular church cannot."

Murillo emphasized that these wounded healers are the perfect weapon for this time, but at the end of the day, he wished that they can somehow realize who they are and let go of their desire for "cookie-cutter" Christian acceptance. Then and only then will they be able to serve as "God's soul-tractor beam."

"Look around you and you will see how a new generation of leader is coming to the fore," declared Murillo. "They do not wait for committee approval. They rent a school auditorium in a bad area and just start preaching. They preach raw sermons with an open heart and crowds come from everywhere."

The pastor likened their frontline ministry to carrying "unlicensed weapons" as they open their homes to youths, give out food, clothes, and love in diverse ways. Despite the fact that their ministry is "unlisted" and unacknowledged by the Council of Churches, Murillo believes that Jesus is quite pleased to attend their every meeting.

"Wounded healers operate under direct orders of the King of Kings"

Noting that others may not wear denominational labels because they do not need buttering up in comfortable spaces, Murillo said that these wounded healers bring the fight to where it is most needed.

They are distinct from the rest of professing Christians because they perceive people through the eyes of the Holy Spirit.

"They do not view the sinner as a commodity, but as kidnapped royalty," comments the evangelist.

"Wounded healers are not perfect containers, they are simply full of oil and that is all that truly matters."

The analogy was based on the Old Testament account about the poor widow who was instructed by Elijah to gather as many containers as she could, and God would fill them with oil. She discovered it did not matter whether the cans, bottles, pails, or pots were in good shape. They were all filled with oil, which God gave.

Murillo offered additional Biblical examples, including Saul of Tarsus, whose unmatched effort for Christ stemmed from his realization that he was a "broken vessel," and the unknown woman who washed Jesus' feet in tears, poured oil over them, and has not stopped kissing them since he entered.

"Therefore, to all you wounded healers, I say, you will not get credit from the religious peanut gallery, so you will have to be content with accomplishing more than any of them will for Christ, and loving the Lord more than they can ever imagine!" he concluded.
With the unlikely marriage of two controversial issues Wednesday night, the Senate may have ensured final passage Thursday by the House of a groundbreaking clean slate bill expunging the criminal records of thousands of Connecticut residents.

The Senate voted unanimously to take a Republican bill that revisits elements of the police accountability law passed last summer and amend it with language that narrows the reach of the Democrats record erasure bill now stalled in the House.

A lot of the times you have things that start off as anathema to either side, and you figure out how to make them work for both sides, thats what you do, said Sen. Gary Winfield, D-New Haven, co-chair of the Judiciary Committee.

The clean slate bill would expunge the records of persons convicted of misdemeanors and lower-level felonies if they stayed free of additional offenses for seven or 10 years, depending on the crime, after completion of their sentences.

A significant bloc of Democrats in the House insisted that non-violent sexual offenses and crimes directed at children and other vulnerable victims be stricken from the list of crimes eligible for expungement in the clean slate bill passed by the Senate.

The simplest way to do that would have been for the House to amend Senate Bill 1019, the clean slate bill passed by the Senate. But that would have returned the bill to the Senate without a guarantee of passage in the waning days of the 2021 session.

House Speaker Matt Ritter, D-Hartford, suggested an unconventional solution: Use one bill to amend another. He correctly assumed that a bill narrowing the crimes eligible for erasure would get Republican support and quick passage in the Senate.

The bill chosen as the vehicle to fix clean slate was Senate Bill 1093, a Republican bill that provides changes to the 2020 police accountability law. It gives police officers the right to review body camera footage before release, and creates a process for objecting to a subpoena by a civilian police review board.

Winfield voted against it in committee, primarily because of a provision that would have repealed protections against police asking motorists for permission to search a motor vehicle without cause. That provision was stripped from the version of the bill approved Wednesday night.

The machinations and the relationship between the two Senate bills, 1019 and 1093, may be confusing to follow. But the result is the House now has possession of both bills, and it can vote on final passage of an acceptable version in a single day without further Senate action.

Ritter said he will call votes on both bills Thursday, the last scheduled session day before the Memorial Day weekend.

Even the revised version of clean slate is unlikely to draw significant, if any, support from Republicans. Sen. John Kissel, R-Enfield, called the narrower list of offenses eligible for erasure a step in the right direction, and I applaud that. But he still found the overall erasure bill to be too generous.

Gov. Ned Lamont, who proposed a clean slate bill last year that would have applied only to non-violent misdemeanors, indicated Wednesday he was uncomfortable with the original Senate version  and still wary of any measure more ambitious than his own.

I would tend to walk before I run, Lamont said. I tend to start with a narrower set of non-violent crimes, show that the system works, and then expand from there. That would be my inclination.

Lamont did not say that inclination would lead to a veto.
Funeral service for Helen Francis Turner, 76, of Cullman will be Saturday, June 12, 2021 at 11 a.m. at Peck Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. James Watts and Rev. Keith Whitley officiating and Peck Funeral Home directing with burial in Bell Springs Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, June 11, 2
Kankakee, IL (60901)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this morning. Thunderstorms likely during the afternoon. High 91F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Some passing clouds. Low around 65F. Winds light and variable.
Elizabeth City, NC (27909)

Today

Thunderstorms during the morning will give way to steady rain this afternoon. High 77F. Winds NNE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. Low 64F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph.
Approximately 50 protesters marched against Bishop Grant Hagiya of the United Methodist Church California-Pacific Conference. Protesters accused him of bullying three Korean-American pastors who do not share his view, a report says.

The Christian Post reports that the Rev. Jonathan Lee of the San Diego Korean United Methodist Church, the Rev. Jae Duk Lew of the Valley Korean United Methodist Church, and the Rev. Nak In Kim of the Bell Memorial United Methodist Church have all been terminated from their appointments as senior pastors of their respective congregations.

The Korean United Methodist Church Laity Network, the Cal-Pac Korean Church Caucus, and other organizations, according to UM News, have accused Hagiya of deliberately "targeting the three pastors" because of their conservative views and ties. They argue that throughout the appointment process, he neglected to consult with the pastors and their congregations.

The United Methodist Church has been debating whether or not to revise its biblically based position on marriage and sexuality. Similarly, the denomination has been split for years on how accommodating of LGBTQ individuals it should be.

"The bishop believed they were being 'disloyal' to him, so he just withdrew them from their churches," said Rev. Glen Haworth, president of the California-Pacific chapter of the theologically conservative Wesleyan Covenant Association. He was also present during the Saturday protest.

"They serve thriving, vibrant congregations that are doing significant ministry. There was no purpose to removing them except to further the bishop's own agenda," he added.

"We are planning further demonstrations, as well as a potential boycott of the Episcopal Fund in the denomination from which bishops are paid," Haworth continued after explaining that Bishop Hagiya is Japanese-American, and that the Japanese have a long history of discriminatory attacks against Koreans.

Saturday's protest "went extremely well," said Haworth and added that the private security protecting the UMC headquarters even praised them for their civility.

Bishop Hagiya, on the other hand, said that pursuant to United Methodist policy, he is unable to disclose the reason for his decision.

However, he emphasized that the "Book of Discipline directives on consultation" were observed, and he denied having any "theological or political" motivation for reassigning the pastors, whose terms are due to end on June 30.

"I care and our cabinet cares deeply about every church. Our only perspective is about the welfare of the church," Hagiya said.

The Conference's Korean Caucus has launched an online petition calling for an explanation from the bishop for "causing frustration and harm inflicted on the Korean church due to this situation."

Helena Kim, the co-chairwoman of the Korean Caucus of the California-Pacific Conference, told CP that she believes "Hagiya is abusing his authority as a bishop to essentially harm the pastors' ministry, their credibility [and] the three churches."

Consequently, the pastors and their congregations "have taken a legal action by jointly filing a complaint with the UMC Judicial Committee against bishop Hagiya and his superintendents," said Kim.

The Cal-Pac Korean Laity Network has drafted a resolution that condemns the bishop's unlawful acts. The resolution has reportedly been signed by around 3,000 individuals.
The offer of a tenured teaching position to journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones has been resubmitted to the board of trustees at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Elizabeth City, NC (27909)

Today

Overcast with rain showers at times. High 77F. Winds NNE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low 64F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph.
Tony Johnson is chairman of the Chinook Indian Nation. Brian Baird was the Democratic representative from Washingtons 3rd Congressional District for six terms. He now resides in Edmonds.
Dalton, GA (30720)

Today

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High near 90F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 68F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
Since 1990, Patricia R. Doxsey has been a reporter for the Freeman, covering politics, crime, and government affairs.
The Waldoboro United Methodist Church, which has been on Friendship Road since 1857, is set to close on June 30.

According to Bangor Daily News, the Waldoboro church was constructed in 1857 on a 67-by-120-foot plot of land on Friendship Road. Now that they are parting ways, the church building and the adjacent parsonage will be given to the New England United Methodist Church Conference.

Minister Greg Foster said that the church's declining membership could not sustain it. He maintains, however, that there is still work to be done in Waldoboro, including caring for the community's poor who are not served by any church.

"The church is the people and the community of God, and that will go on," he said.

Congregants will be transferred to other churches in the neighborhood, and Foster will continue his work as minister via social media and email until he finds a new vocation.

According to Waldoborough Historical Society president Jean Lawrence, the church's origins date back to 1793, when Methodist circuit rider Jessie Lee served seven Christian villages, including one in Waldoborough. Lawrence added that other members of the church mortgaged their farms to donate to the building, which cost an extra $4,000 to complete.

Because of COVID-19, the church "went remote" for a time, but when it returned to in-person services, only around five to ten people showed up.

Lawrence believes that "societal changes" had a role in the church's demise, as well as a lack of effort to invite new families.

"Once you start losing your youngsters, it's very hard to keep a church going," she said.

The last service will be held on June 27th and will be a gathering where members may share their memories of the community. The church was well-attended and had a 30-member choir during its peak in the 1970s and 1980s.

"I look forward to that in a way," said Foster.

"It was a wonderful place for us to raise our boys. I hate to see it go," says a former preacher.

"I have witnessed the most beautiful people move through that church," Medomak Valley High School's administrator adds. "To have it close during COVID is even more poignant because it doesn't give me a chance to say goodbye."

The Waldoboro United Methodist Church, located at 85 Friendship Road, will continue to host Sunday service at 11 a.m. until the church officially closes.

According to Outreach Magazine, by the end of 2020, David Kinnaman, president of Barna Group, predicted that up to one out of every five churches might close permanently due to COVID-19 closing orders. Despite the fact that many churches have reopened, he claims that fewer people are going in person, which is affecting contributions.

In an interview with NPR on August 24, 2020, Kinnaman said, "[Churches are] recognizing that the relationships that they thought were much deeper with people were actually not as deep as they expected. Simply reopening a church doesn't fix the underlying economic challenges that you might have."

Kinnaman, on the other hand, feels that the "online church is here to stay."
Authorities have identified eight people killed by a gunman at a California railyard on Wednesday before the gunman took his own life
Pennsylvania Acting Secretary of Health Alison Beam speaks at the virtual press conference. Governor Tom Wolf and Acting Secretary of Health Alison Beam provided an update today on the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine in Pennsylvania and the many challenges that are ahead because of limited supply of doses from the federal government. They were joined at a press conference by Interim Acting Physician General Dr. Wendy Braund and Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) Director Randy Padfield. Harrisburg, PA - January 26, 2021
An Arab woman received a kidney from a Jewish man who was slain in a riot in Israel.

As per CBN News, Israeli Yigal Yehoshua, 56, was killed on May 17 in Israel's mixed city of Lod after being attacked with rocks during a fight between Arabs and Jews.

Protests and rioting in Jerusalem sparked the ethnic bloodshed, which was followed by the recent Gaza War which lasted 11 days. Groups of Arabs and Jews clashed in the streets of Lod and other mixed towns in Israel, torching vehicles and establishments and severely beating anybody who crossed their way.

Randa Aweis, a 58-year-old mother of six who received one of Yehoshua's kidneys through the organ transplant said, "I could not believe it. They saved me."

During an emotional video call, Aweis spoke with the Jewish man's widow. She intends to pay a visit to his family after she has fully recovered from the transplant.

"Yigal saved me, and as much as I say thank you to the family, to everyone, it's not enough."

Yehoshua was an organ donor. Thankfully, he and Aweis were a perfect match.

"There must be peace between Jews and Arabs, real peace," the woman who got the organ said. She goes on to say that the death of the man who "didn't do any harm" is "forbidden."

Aweis, per The Times of Israel, is a Christian woman from Jerusalem. She is now recovering from her transplant.

"We are like family now," she said in reference to Yehoshua's surviving family, adding "this Jewish kidney has now become a part of me."

When Yigal Yehoshua's death was publicized last week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced, "I share in the sorrow of the family of the late Yigal Yehoshua who was murdered in a lynch carried out by Arab rioters in Lod."

"We will settle accounts with whoever participated in this murder; nobody will escape punishment," he stressed.

Several people have been apprehended in connection with the incident.

The bloodshed, which came closer to home than at any moment since the Palestinian intifada, or uprising, in 2000, surprised Israelis who had become used to recurrent turmoil in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

The violence was "rooted in long-standing grievances," said Israel's Arab inhabitants, who make up 20% of the population. They have citizenship, which includes the ability to vote, but they are subjected to a great deal of prejudice. Many Jewish Israelis see them with distrust because they have intimate family links to Palestinians and strongly connect with their cause.

However, rioting between the two ethnic groups spilled over into other parts of the world. As demonstrations raged throughout the United States, deadly fights broke out between Israeli and Palestinian protestors in New York City.

But contrary to what has been proliferated in the media, the main issue is not about land, according to Dennis Prager, a conservative commentator and radio host: "The Middle East dispute is not over land. Israel is the size of New Jersey. It is smaller than El Salvador. There are 22 Arab states. There is a state with a majority of Palestinians called Jordan. The issue is not land. The issue is religion."

As per BBC's report, during the 11 days of violent warfare that concluded on Friday with an Egyptian-brokered truce, at least 242 people were killed in Gaza and 13 people were killed in Israel.
William M. Jennings, at an April ceremony at Reading Hospital, is leaving as the hospital's president and CEO for a job with Hartford Healthcare in Connecticut.
If youve lost a loved one to Covid, the last word you want to hear is sorry.

Followed by a trite yes, mistakes were made, but lessons will be learned.

Lets be clear; grandparents, partners, and friends died from this terrible disease as a result of (according to Cummings) a bucket-load of DECEIT, DITHERING, and PLAIN INEPITITUDE.

You can dismiss Cummings explosive seven hours of testimony as revenge porn or the bitter score-settling of a former Prince of Policy-making who suddenly found himself superseded. But that would be a huge mistake.

No matter how much we might loathe this weirdo who shows no loyalty to his former boss and who was never a team player anyway - and who still hasn't really explained what his trip north was all about - theres a host of reasons to listen carefully to what hes saying.

Cummings was the man in the room.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson with Lee Cain, Dominic Cummings, Jack Doyle, Chris Whitty and Matt Hancock (left to right) inside his office in Number 10 in February last year

Former Number 10 special adviser Cummings is pictured giving his testimony at a committee hearing in Portcullis House, London, on May 26

He saw it all at first hand - the U turns, the blind refusal to focus on the impending tragedy, the inability to grasp detail and make tough decisions. The obsession with how things would play in the media, the narcissism of a Prime Minister who wants to be loved at all costs.

According to Dom, the Prime Minister was surrounded by incompetent second division Ministers but had some brilliant advisors and civil servants offering advice and support.

But where was the leadership? According to Cummings, they were lions led by donkeys. The bloke at the helm was like a supermarket shopping trolley spinning out of control. The man at the top repeatedly compared himself to the Mayor in Jaws dealing with a shark attack- not a malevolent virus striking down our brightest and best.

The result? Tens of thousands of deaths which could have been prevented if the man in charge had exhibited some balls, some backbone and bulldog spirit. If he had been prepared to be disliked for imposing a strict lockdown when scientists and medics were desperate for action.

Instead, Boris thought the virus was like chicken pox or swineflu. That people were scare-mongering. That the Brits would never follow the restrictive rules imposed in Thailand and South Korea. (Lockdowns which were later proved to have been extremely effective).

By January 2021, the UK had 100,160 deaths from Covid, the worse death toll in Europe - and no matter what our leaders say, weve still suffered more excess deaths than most comparable countries in the West.

Now, the number of deaths from Covid stands at over 127,000 and the virus is still with us - mutating and changing, and Boris is STILL waffling about whether to extend restrictions beyond the end of June, how to deal with local outbreaks due to the Indian variant and how to handle a growing demand for foreign holidays.

Offering Portugal and a few islands on a Green list was a stop-gap - adding a few more small islands will not save the aviation industry or placate the travel operators.

Its fair to say we would not be suffering the latest wave of local outbreaks if BJ had stopped flights into the UK from India at least a week earlier.

The most damaging assertion from Cummings is that Matt Hancock - the man in charge of the nations health - lied repeatedly. Specifically, that people were going to be tested for Covid before they were sent to care homes from hospitals. Now we know thats not true.

On March 17th 2020 hospitals were told to send as out many elderly patients as they could to care homes, freeing up beds as the first wave of Covid started to peak.

The Prime Minister is pictured visiting Colchester hospital in east England today, following Cummings' explosive testimony yesterday

The most damaging assertion from Cummings is that Matt Hancock (pictured during a coronavirus media briefing today) - the man in charge of the nations health - lied repeatedly

Experts and NHS executives have confirmed that there was no requirement to test these people until April 15th, when it became mandatory. But there was a shortage of tests, implementation was down to local areas, and the numbers who were tested varied widely.

One care home operator told the BBC that up to 60% of residents in one of her homes died as a result of Covid being imported from a new arrival in this period.

Matt Hancock has claimed that doctors didnt know enough about asymptomatic cases and how to spot them, ie people who exhibit no signs of the disease.

But thats not true. NHS experts had identified this problem in March and so had the Lancet magazine.

Hancock - who Cummings says lied over and over again - strenuously denies these accusations and now said he only promised to start testing them once he actually had the tests.

But the facts arent in his favour - senior civil servants, scientists and medical experts all agree - Cummings is only telling us what we always suspected.

Hancock repeatedly said there was no shortage of PPE - even though NHS staff and Care home managers were appearing on the national news saying they could not get supplies.

Tens of thousands of deaths could have been prevented if the man in charge had exhibited some balls, some backbone and bulldog spirit, writes Janet Street-Porter (pictured)

According to the Full Fact charity and the National Audit Office, at the peak in April and May 2020 there were only a third of the aprons which were needed, a quarter of the eye protection, and 10% of the gowns that staff were begging for. One NHS senior staffer described it as a debacle.

As for Dominic Cummings assertion that Matt Hancock lied about the number of tests being carried out, fact checkers say he could never have delivered his target of 100,000 a day as the system was only capable of 40,000 at the start. And by the end April 2020 when Hancock proudly announced 122,000 tests in a single day, that was the number SENT OUT. In fact, only 82,000 tests were achieved.

You might think this is nit-picking.

But if your granny died in a care home (one of the 43,000 victims), or if you knew a worker unable to get protective clothing and who subsequently caught Covid, you would be enraged, because that turns out to be a preventable death.

A Prime Minister who talked of letting bodies pile up in the streets before he would countenance a second lockdown is surely lacking in empathy.

Someone prepared to sacrifice tens of thousands of deaths because he reckoned the economy was more important than a load of pensioners who were house-bound anyway.

A muddle-headed clown who enthusiastically hugged and shook hands with people (even though experts were counselling social distancing) and caught Covid as a result.

A man who took a two-week holiday in February when all the signs were clear to see - this virus wasnt going to stop while the middle classes took their annual skiiing break.

I know its been a long 15 months but please dont be bored by Covid.

Please dont dismiss Cummings as an attention-seeking loon.

By January 2021, the UK had 100,160 deaths from Covid, the worse death toll in Europe. Now, the number of deaths from Covid stands at over 127,000 and the virus is still with us (pictured: the National Covid Memorial Wall in London)

We owe it to every single person who died. We must get to the bottom of what went wrong and those culpable must be removed from office while they still have them.

Boris is hoping that the public will be fed up with score-settling

And Tory MPs are saying let's wait to investigate all these serious allegations in the official inquiry, hoping that people will just want to put the whole Covid nightmare behind them once life is back to normal.

But just remember what a senior civil servant allegedly said to Cummings in March last year: There is no plan. Were in huge troubleheading for disaster. Were going to kill thousands of people.

In the event that turned out to be over a hundred and twenty-seven thousand people.

And if another crisis comes along tomorrow do you really believe the government will be any better prepared?
Clink, clink! Dead man walkin! Battered, bruised, not to say a little bit dazed, Matt Hancock somehow made it through the latest Downing Street press conference.

But, oh boy, was it a close run thing. At one point I thought we might have to summon the stretchers.

Youve gotta hand it to the Health Secretary, it takes a lot to keep this most uppity of upstarts down. After his mauling at the hands of Dominic Cummings this week, few of us would have even made it out of bed the next morning.

This is a man with a hide like a pangolins undercarriage. But his performance yesterday was pure agony.

Mr Hancock does not easily elicit sympathy but it was noticeable when he appeared in the Commons earlier how many of his colleagues turned out to support him

Its not often you see Mr Hancock rattled. In fact, he positively revels in confrontation. But for the first time in his career, possibly his life, he was cowering in the spotlight.

That cocky gameshow host schtick had deserted him. It was like watching a hare-in-headlights bracing for the dull thud of impact. All anyone wanted to talk about, of course, was the care homes fiasco.

Recap: Acccording to Cummings, Hancock had promised the Prime Minister at the beginning of the crisis that everyone discharged from hospital into care would be tested.

This turned out not to be true. Result: Thousands died.

Questions were fired at Hancock like wooden balls on a coconut shy. Had he lied to the PM? Did Cummings lie?

Our Matt gripped the lectern with both hands in a bid to assert some steely authority. Yet all he could manage were non-answers. He complained the necessary testing capacity was not in place at the time.

Questions were fired at Hancock like wooden balls on a coconut shy. Had he lied to the PM? Did Cummings lie?

I had to build it, he moaned, as though he was actually there at the lab in white coat and goggles putting the thing together himself.

As the queries rained in, a thin layer of sweat gathered across Hancocks cheekbones. Occasionally, there was a nervy scratch of the forehead.

Someone asked if he had promised to test everyone before realising the capability just wasnt there. There will be time to go into this in detail! he flapped repeatedly.

Just when it looked as though the squall might pass, there would come an inquisitive just to follow up on that Oh brother.

To his side stood Dr Jenny Harries, chief executive of the UK Health Security Agency and head of NHS Test and Trace. Shes the one who speaks like a particularly terrifying librarian.

Every now and again she would try to divert the heat from her boss by chipping in with a lecture about the importance of getting the jab. And thats the thing that really, really matters, Hancock nodded.

Nice try minister. A chap from The Times asked whether Hancock had spoken to the Prime Minister since Cummings had thrown him under the bus.

The PM and I talk all the time, said Hancock, affecting blokey nonchalance. By now his skin was as soggy as a wet wipe.

Did he enjoy Boriss confidence? He didnt answer that.

One does fear for Hancock if he loses his job. Where would he be without his ministerial car? Itd be like separating a small child from their favourite blanket.

Mr Hancock does not easily elicit sympathy but it was noticeable when he appeared in the Commons earlier how many of his colleagues turned out to support him.

A protective shield formed around him before the start.

One does fear for Hancock if he loses his job. Where would he be without his ministerial car? Itd be like separating a small child from their favourite blanket

When I say shield, it consisted of Leader of the Commons Jacob Rees-Mogg and former Cabinet ministers Jeremy Hunt and Andrew Mitchell. I know, I know: hardly the sort of muscle youd want watching your back in the pub when the atmosphere turns moody.

Of course, its possible that some of those who turned out were more motivated by their loathing of Mr Cummings.

William Wragg (Con, Hazel Grove) pointed out the ridiculousness of opposition MPs, who once regarded Cummings as a latter day Herod, now hailing him as a prophet who fresh from the wilderness brings with him supposed truths written on tablets of stone.

Peter Bone (Con, Wellingborough) thought the only mistake the Prime Minister made during the pandemic was that he didnt sack Cummings sooner. It certainly would have saved them all a lot of trouble.
The traditional espresso martini has been transformed to create the perfect evening tipple.

The new cocktail by internationally renowned Italian brand Disaronno will be the drink of choice at this year's Afterpay Australia Fashion Week (AAFW).

The cocktail is smooth much like a traditional espresso martini, but contains refreshing lemon notes.

Those attending the fashion shows in Sydney from May 31 to June 4 will be able to enjoy the beverage, but it can also be replicated at home.

The reimagined cocktail is smooth much like a traditional espresso martini, but contains refreshing lemon notes

When recreating the cocktail, Disaronno's brand ambassador Danilo Migliorini was challenged with 'capturing essence of aperitivo hour on the Italian streets'.

Danilo said: 'I created this recipe after having a chat with Anna Plunkett and Luke Sales of RWB. They told me what they love about Italy, starting with countless beautiful historic churches, and the quality of their coffee and chocolate.

'Sitting out on the streets in a cafe and soaking it all in. They also like Espresso Martinis so I took the chance to make their own cocktail based on that, but with a twist.

For this reason, the cocktail was named 'A Romance Was Born In Saronno'.

When recreating the cocktail, Disaronno's brand ambassador Danilo Migliorini was challenged with 'capturing essence of aperitivo hour on the Italian streets' (stock image)

To make beverage at home you'll need Disaronno, cold brewed coffee, Tia Maria, Vodka, milk, lemon juice and sugar syrup.

You will also need a conical filter, coffee filter, measuring cups and an empty 1L bottle to shake the ingredients together.

The cocktail is simple to make and would be a great beverage to enjoy when hosting guests on weekends.
A fashion influencer with a designer wardrobe worth 100,000 has told how she quit her high-flying job to showcase her garb on Instagram and encourage women to 'stand out, be bold and wear colour'.

Mamissa Mboob, 43, who lives in Geneva, has nearly 400 pairs of heels and says getting dressed up daily during lockdown and putting on make-up every morning helped her cope.

She previusly worked for the UN and as the former head of the trade division of the Ministry of Trade in The Gambia, helping women and girls to get an education.

However the former humanitarian worker, who gave up her profession to become an Instagram star, insists the eye-watering value of her wardrobe doesn't make her a diva.

A fashion influencer, who boasts a 100,000 designer wardrobe, quit her high-flying job to showcase her garb on Instagram and encourages women to be bold and wear colour

Mamissa has between 300 and 400 pairs of shoes and said she is 'a self-confessed footwear addict' boasting pairs from designer brands like Fendi to high street ones from Zara

Mamissa who goes by TheColourMeMam on Instagram said: 'I have 300 to 400 pairs of shoes. I am a self-confessed footwear addict and I have worn my heels in lockdown at home and wear make-up at home as soon as I get up!

'I did this because I believe lockdown should not be a reason to let go of yourself and be miserable.'

She boasts an impressive collection, adding she has more than '60 designer handbags' from luxury brands like Hermes and Chanel - along with a few High Street names including H&M.

Mamissa added: 'My shoes and boots range from top designers like Fendi and Gucci to mid level brands like Paris Texas to high street brands like Zara.

Mamissa Mboob, 43, who lives in Geneva, has nearly 400 pairs of heels, and says getting dressed up daily during lockdown, and putting on make-up every morning, helped her cope

The former humanitarian worker gave up her job to become an Instagram star but insists her wardrobe doesn't make her a diva

'I just love shoes as they make me feel feminine and alive! My firm belief is that you don't have to wear expensive brands to look and feel fabulous - shoes and handbags from high streets brands like Zara can also make you feel just as amazing.'

Mamissa created her Instagram account at the beginning of lockdown and in just over a year she has attracted more than 120,000 followers.

She is now the most liked fashion influencer from The Gambia - and says she's the biggest African influencer in Switzerland.

But this is a stark difference to her former career - where Mamissa believes she was encouraged to dress down and be submissive.

'I encourage my followers not to be afraid to wear colourful shoes - green, red, purple,' she said.

She is now the most liked fashion influencer from The Gambia - and says she's the biggest African influencer in Switzerland

'I try to avoid just wearing black or brown boots. I own boots in all colours possible from pink to electric blue, purple, green, yellow and red.

'My favourite pair of boots are my thigh high purple Balenciaga boots and my followers always talk about how only I can get away with wearing purple thigh high boots in Geneva.'

The mother-of-two bought herself her first Birkin bag - a 'push' present - after giving birth to her first daughter, which she said is her most prized possession.

She said: 'My most expensive item is my Birkin bag. When my daughter was born, it was a difficult and scary pregnancy but she was healthy and well and I bought myself my first orange Hermes Birkin.

At the beginning of lockdown, she created her Instagram account to showcase her out there dress sense and in just more than one year she has more than 120,000 followers

'When she's 18, I want to give it to her as a reminder of success. I have bought other colours since then but this one remains my favourite because it meant a lot.

'But despite this, I stay grounded and real. I connect with my audience, I respond to every single message and I answer all comments. I actually care about my followers.'

Mamissa hasn't always been a successful fashion influencer; she originally studied for a masters in the US and received a scholarship to do a PhD in Cambridge.

Mamissa, who is from The Gambia, originally studied for a masters in the US and received a scholarship to do a PHd in Cambridge (pictured left in a childhood snap)

Most recently, she was working with Unicef to help children in poor countries, but said her 'creative side remained stifled'.

'I am not afraid to be bold, to wear colour. Come out of your shell and wear that orange jacket!' she urged.

Mamissa said she wants to encourage women to 'come out of their shell' and wear bold colours, adding that in West Africa it is common to dress in eye-catching hues.

She added: 'Don't be afraid to be bold and stand out. In West Africa women wear a lot of big colours. Always remember your background, your strength, your beauty and your confidence.

Her favourite pair of boots are a pair of thigh high purple Balenciaga's and her followers joked that only she could get away with wearing them in Geneva

'Be bold and fight for injustice, don't be afraid to speak the truth and fight for yourself.'

Throughout her career, Mamissa said she has felt she struggled to fit in 'as a black woman in a white dominated environment' and would 'dress down' so she didn't stand out.

She said: 'I always felt I had to work 10 times harder than the average. I had to be better and smarter, more eloquent, more submissive. I woke up about two years ago and decided enough is enough.

'And so I decided to create TheColourMeMam in March 2020. A woman who is confident, strong, courageous, who is not afraid to stand out, not afraid to be bold, to be funny, to wear orange and red and yellow and blue!

She wants to encourage woman to 'come out of their shell' and wear bold colours, adding that in West Africa it is common to dress in eye-catching hues

'I decided that I would empower women to feel good about themselves, feel good to be a woman no matter your colour or age.'

Mamissa's account now highlights her day-to-day life and enviable wardrobe but the key message is to 'be bold' and not be afraid to stand out.

The influencer says she is loved for her very colourful outfits - a mix of streetwear with touches of luxury.

She's currently part of the Vauxhall Opel Mokka-e campaign and is sharing her own interpretation of being different with her followers.

The influencer says she is loved for her very colourful outfits - a mix of streetwear with touches of luxury

There are only four influencers chosen from Switzerland and she is the only one of colour - representing Geneva for the company.

She added: 'In the end we are a master of our own destinations and my story shows how you can hit rock bottom and still get up and go higher.

'I want to tell all women that no one can bring you down. No one can stand in your way, never give up, fight for injustice fearlessly and wear colour doing it!'
Wedding season is almost here, and after such long delays the well-heeled want their bashes to really go with a bang. JADE BEER reveals the top trends for luxury weddings with the wow factor.

EATING ALL HOURS

Couples want five-course formality and tasting menus, or those that reflect their favourite London restaurants that were closed during lockdown, says Adamantia Leonidopoulou, of The Ned hotel in London.

Companies like Maison Margaux can make every element of the table setting bespoke. Were doing a wedding this August for 120 guests where were hand-painting all the plates and embroidering all the napkins with the couples monogram, says director Louisa Preskett Mobbs. Afterwards, theyll keep the entire dinner service.

Jade Beer explores the top trends for luxury weddings (pictured) with the wow factor, as Adamantia Leonidopoulou, of The Ned hotel in London, reveals couples want five-course formality and tasting menus

Couples are saying no to prosecco, and yes to Ruinart with a fresh seafood bar, says Georgina Griffith-Jones of Moriarty Events, whose weddings start at around 1,000 a head. Its not one cocktail after dinner, they want the picante, the whiskey sour and the espresso martinis. Theyd also like it served by a model. Its very common to hire models for parties now, says Griffith-Jones. But they need to be styled  for a luxe feel, they should be wearing something youve chosen.

THE THREE-DAYER

Weve extended this years season by two weeks and 2022 is almost full too, says Charlotte Boston, of Cornwell Manor in the Cotswolds, where a wedding for 120 guests costs between 70,000 and 140,000.

One wedding Charlotte is hosting this year will start on the Friday evening with a cocktail party, campfires, and an Indian field supper. Fifty guests will stay on site. For the Saturday wedding, its tuxes and gowns for champagne and oysters, then cocktail hour and dinner before a late-night bash to herald in a pizza pool party so guests can relax before leaving on Sunday.

HEIRLOOM DRESS

Chelsea-based couture bridal designer Phillipa Lepley is designing for 50 weddings this year. People are spending more money and wanting more special things, she says. Many of her brides opt for a 25,000 strapless crepe dress with two interchangeable overlays: one in embroidered tulle for the daytime and another more sparkly or short for the evening. But at the higher end, it can cost up to 50,000 for a fully hand-embroidered dress, which can take up to two years.

Bespoke embroidery and personalisation are also a trend.

Chelsea-based couture bridal designer Phillipa Lepley said many of her brides opt for a 25,000 strapless crepe dress with two interchangeable overlays

She says: One bride wants 20 initials of her closest family members embroidered onto her dress.

And designer Catharina Eden reveals: Im working on a dress for one bride who wants over a hundred pearls to be sewn on to her dress.

Shes chosen each pearl herself.

THE MED AT HOME

Couples want their weddings to feel like the Tuscan or Provencal countryside, even if theyre not travelling abroad.

One couple have decided to use the budget theyd allocated for hiring a Venetian palazzo to bring Italy to the UK. Party planners will create mini canals with battery- powered gondolas running down 30ft-long tables, while luxe caterers Rocket Food will create a menu with lemons flown in from the Amalfi coast, tomatoes from Ischia, and 100-year-old balsamic from Modena.

Sue Barnes, the creative director of Lavender Green, the florist for Pippa Middletons wedding, says: Multi-sensory decorating is key. Were displaying fruit and olive trees, thyme and lavender in beautiful French anduze pots, hand-thrown terracotta courtyard stoneware or huge rustic baskets.

Chris Murphy of Tuck Box Cakes, said individual cakes for guests have become popular

Well use stone fountains and water-filled lead troughs to add the sound of cascading water.

We can be seen wafting huge bunches of tuberose, just before the bride enters a room.

Or we cut rosemary and scatter it on the floor, underneath tables.

Luxury florist Amie Bone has seen her clients budgets swell in recent months. Plenty of people who pre-Covid had a 20,000 budget for flowers now have up to 50,000. We have clients spending in excess of 150,000. They come to me because they know I can deliver something highly creative.

STRIKE A POSE

Forget cheesy catching-the-bouquet shots. The hottest pictures this year are from fashion photographers.

The top pick? Paris-based Greg Finck, who costs 20,000 euros, and also shoots for Elie Saab and Balenciaga.

Society jewellery designer Kiki McDonough, said a diamond tiara can be worn to lift the face and give stature

Brides want me to duplicate that look and feel on the wedding day. The images wont be stiff, I bring some movement, nothing is shot straight into the lens, all techniques you learn from working with a model.

CAKE FOR EACH GUEST

Individual cakes are so popular now, says Chris Murphy from Tuck Box Cakes. They can double as wedding favours and place names with guests names iced onto them.

THEATRE STARS FOR KIDS

People really want children at weddings now, says Victoria Pearce, founder of Notorious Kids. But you have to entertain them. A lot of our performers work in the West End, one is in Mary Poppins and Matilda before that  others have skills like acrobatics and juggling.

Kiki said a very simple diamond tiara would cost 5,000

TOP OF THE TIARAS

Society jewellery designer Kiki McDonough says: The ultimate luxury without question is a diamond tiara. They lift the face and give you stature. You stand taller. It takes three to four months to make one. Something very simple would cost 5,000 and from there the skys the limit.

NO INVITE YET?

Dont feel too bad  they might have decided to elope! The pandemic has kickstarted a trend for some couples to skip all the hoopla and tie the knot quietly.

Nick Walley of Cornwalls Fowey Hall Hotel says: Weve had a lot of enquiries for our elopement-style weddings from couples who have decided they dont want a huge wedding, but do still want a luxurious experience from start to finish.

We have a range of intimate rooms and can even supply witnesses! While big weddings at Fowey Hall can easily climb to 50,000, elopement packages start at a more calming 1,295.
A mum has shared her simple trick for getting up to 73 wet items on the indoor drying rack, and she's been praised by thousands for the space-saving hack.

The Australian woman, called Liesl Elizabeth, posted on TikTok, where she said she was sick of getting just 32 items on her line where they hung 'wet and crinkled'.

So, she came up with the idea to hang clothes hangers on the side of the rack, so she could fit more items on that were ready to put away in her wardrobe.

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BEFORE AND AFTER: A mum has shared her simple trick for getting up to 73 wet items on the indoor drying rack, and she's been praised by thousands for the space-saving hack

The Australian woman, called Liesl Elizabeth, posted on TikTok, where she said she was sick of getting just 32 items on her line where they hung 'wet and crinkled'

'This is my top wet laundry hack,' Liesl wrote on TikTok.

'I used to get 32 items on the line squashed and crinkled, with no room for the rest.

'Now, 73 items are drying quicker, crease-free and so they're easier to hang.'

Liesl accompanied her video with the finished result of her washing line, as well as showing how much she used to struggle before.

AFTER: So, she came up with the idea to hang clothes hangers on the side of the rack, so she could fit more items on that were ready to put away in her wardrobe

Thousands who saw the simple clip were impressed and said they would definitely give it a go at home.

'Such a good hack,' one commenter posted.

'I can't believe how many clothes you can get on there, oh my god,' another added.

Previously, she shared the cleaning items every homeowner should have in their kit, including a $5 cream cleanser from Bunnings Warehouse, eucalyptus oil and a spin mop (kit pictured)

Liesl has built up a huge following on TikTok for sharing handy household tips and tricks.

Previously, she shared the cleaning items every homeowner should have in their kit, including a $5 cream cleanser from Bunnings Warehouse, eucalyptus oil and a spin mop.

The first three areas that Liesl said need to be cleaned regularly in order to stay shiny is your grout, taps and sinks and your stove top.

For this, the mum from Perth relies on the Sabco Grout Brush ($4.50) from Bunnings, the Rubbermaid Power Scrubber ($20) from Bunnings and the $5 Glitz Cream Cleanser, also from the discount hardware store.

Shiny surfaces that get used regularly like shower screens, windows and mirrors need regular TLC.

For this, Liesl said she swears by a non-scratch scourer sponge, multiple microfibre cloths, a scraper blade from Bunnings and a squeegee, which you can run up and down the surfaces.
A provocative pair of jeans from a fast fashion website have been mercilessly mocked on social media.

The $50 Hourglass Skinny jeans from ASOS look standard enough from the front, but the rear view tells a very different story.

Instead of stopping just above the crotch like a traditional fly, the zip continues under the body all the way to the top of the waistband above the behind.

The unusual design that immediately draws attention to the wearer's backside was noticed by the creators of parody Instagram account @asbos_sos, which pokes fun at the more bizarre styles sold by the British retail giant.

The $50 Hourglass Skinny jeans from ASOS (pictured) look standard enough from the front, but the rear view tells a very different story

Instead of stopping just above the crotch like a traditional fly, the zip continues under the body all the way up to the top of the waistband above the behind - accentuating the backside

Poll Would you wear jeans with a full body zip? Yes No Would you wear jeans with a full body zip? Yes 31 votes

No 190 votes Now share your opinion





'Hats off to ASOS for finally acknowledging their IBS [irritable bowel syndrome] audience,' the caption reads.

The post, which has racked up more than 2,300 'likes' since it was uploaded on Monday, has drawn dozens of amused responses.

'I don't know what's funnier, the jeans or the caption,' one woman replied.

'What were they thinking?' asked a second.

Another stunned follower simply wrote: 'Oh my god.'

But some saw the functional side of the jeans, which can be opened in one fell swoop unlike typical styles.

'These are excellent,' one person said.

ASOS is by no means the first fashion brand to raise eyebrows with quirky denim designs.

In February, a pair of baggy 'mum' jeans from Shein captured attention online for all the wrong reasons.

While they appear normal from behind, a large piece of fabric is cut out from the waist down to the crotch, leaving the wearer's intimate area free for all to see.

The style exposes every inch of the stomach, groin and upper thigh, making underwear - ideally high-waisted - essential.

Available in sizes six to 14, the straight leg jeans made from cotton and polyester have deep pockets on either side and a button-front closure.

They look normal from the back, but these jeans take a very racy turn at the front

A large piece of fabric is cut out from the waist down to the crotch, exposing every inch of the stomach, groin and upper thigh

No customer reviews have been posted as the jeans have only just dropped online, but they're sure to attract interesting reactions once orders are delivered.

The silhouette is inspired by cowboy chaps, sturdy coverings for the legs consisting of leather leggings and a belt that buckle on to protect against contact with horses and livestock.

Chaps have no seat, meaning they are not joined at the crotch, but are traditionally worn over jeans for modesty.
While most Australians craned their necks upwards to witness a rare 'super blood moon' light up the sky on Wednesday night, the more superstitious among us had their eyes firmly trained on what was happening on the ground.

Myths that full moons affect human behaviour date back centuries, with astrologers suggesting an increase in crime, mood swings, hospital admissions and mental health issues.

But science has yet to find a link between lunar activity and mental wellbeing.

Contrary to what astrology may suggest, Australian scientist Dr Karl Kruszelnicki - who has degrees in medicine and biomedical engineering - says '99 per cent of the evidence says the moon has no effect on human behaviour'.

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The super moon of May 26 is shown over the Sydney Opera House in each of its phases, from a bright orange glow on the horizon to the blood red moon during the total lunar eclipse

Spectators at Sydney's Bondi Beach watch the super blood moon, which astrologers believe causes an increase in crime, mood swings, hospital admissions and mental health issues

The mystical power of full moons was discussed on Thursday morning's Kyle and Jackie O Show, with Jackie insisting there is truth to the myth.

'The full moon - it definitely affects people, you can hear it on our phone [lines] this morning,' Jackie said.

Callers reported freak accidents, delusions and unexplained ailments such as piercing pain behind the eyes which vanished as soon as the sun rose.

One woman said she saw a neighbour hunting animals 'who were not actually there' with a stick in the grounds of their housing commission estate.

Another said she was out for dinner with her husband in central Sydney when a man started staring at them through the restaurant - before ripping down his trousers to reveal a bright blue G-string.

'It's hard to tell whether that's a blood moon victim or just a normal city-dwelling loon,' Kyle replied.

The mystical power of full moons was discussed on Thursday morning's Kyle and Jackie O Show , with Jackie (right) insisting there is truth to the myth

Parliament House in Canberra, ACT, is shadowed by the blood moon, which many have blamed for strange occurrences including freak accidents, delusions and unexplained ailments

An emergency room nurse said he has seen his 'fair share' of strange occurrences on nights when the moon is full.

'We're used to seeing people come in with things stuck up their backsides, but last night was pretty much the best we've got in a while - I think the red moon tipped this bloke over the edge,' he said.

'He snapped a full-size 30cm Buzz Lightyear doll up his a**e.'

Other alleged incidents included birds smashing directly into car windows.

But experts say any perceived connection with the moon is due to the placebo effect or a self-fulfilling prophecy, a phenomenon where an expectation comes true simply because you believe it will and change your behaviour accordingly.

A partial eclipse is seen before the blood moon lit up the skies above Wollongong, NSW on Wednesday, May 26

Contrary to what astrology may suggest, Australian scientist Dr Karl Kruszelnicki (pictured) says '99 percent of the evidence says the moon has no effect on human behaviour'

The myth is also said to be fuelled by what psychologists call confirmation bias, a form of selective thinking which sees us search for information that reinforces our beliefs and ignore any evidence that challenges them.

While lunar happenings have long been blamed for everything from depression and anxiety to catastrophic accidents, Dr Karl told the ABC that thousands of studies show 'absolutely no correlation at all' with the fullness of the moon.

'That's what the scientific literature shows. That's quite different from what will appear in your local newspaper, or on your TV,' he said.

While Dr Karl says a full moon does not cause madness, nor increase the numbers presenting at hospital emergency rooms or instances of self-harm, he concedes there are some instances where it may coincide with more slip-ups than usual.

'In so-called primitive societies that don't have artificial lighting at night, a full moon is the occasion for a party, revelry and a general good time...if there are more people around, then obviously there will be more frequent mishaps,' he explained.

The other side: An astrologer's warning about the blood moon Intuitive astrologer, Rose Smith By Belinda Cleary for Daily Mail Australia Intuitive astrologer Rose Smith says the May 26 'super blood moon' could spell disaster for couples. Ms Smith says the 'emotional devastation' will impact fire signs most but warns 'everybody will be effected'. 'There's going to be a great push for Sagittarians and other fire signs to get rid of toxic situations and relationships,' she told Daily Mail Australia. 'As the lunar eclipse and super moon are in Sagittarius, it could be a particularly emotional time for fire signs Aries, Leo and Sagittarius. 'On the other hand, water signs Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces are looking fortunate, with more balance coming into their lives. They could be feeling divinely inspired.' The full moon, which was the brightest of the year, was coupled with a total lunar eclipse not seen since January 2019. The rare combination will lead to emotional highs and lows felt most acutely by women, Ms Smith said, because women are more likely to 'hold onto' their emotions than men. Advertisement

Others explain away the myth with the illumination hypothesis, which suggests that criminals simply prefer to conduct illegal exploits under cover of moonlight.

A 2019 study, published in the peer-reviewed Swiss Medical Weekly, found patients are no more likely to present to hospital with mental health issues during a full moon than at other times of the month.

Astrophysicist Dr Brad Tucker said a combined super moon and blood moon like the one seen across Australia Wednesday night was incredibly rare.

'Unlike a blue moon this will actually look red or orange. The moon will go behind the earth's shadow but a little bit of sunlight skims the earth's atmosphere and goes out into space,' Dr Tucker told the ABC.

'The same effect that gives the sky its orange glow in the morning or afternoon will cause that on the moon - essentially you're seeing sunrise on the moon.'

The Canberra-based expert added: 'A super moon you get two or three a year... and a blood moon you only get every couple of years, the last one we had was in 2018. A supermoon and a blood moon you're talking about maybe one or two a decade.'
According to a recent poll published by the Family Research Council, only 6% of Americans are holding on to and believing a biblical worldview.

Explaining their methodology, the FRC said that the data, provided by George Barna's Metaformation, Inc., was gathered by phone calls made to a random sample of homes, with the sample divided between calls to landlines and mobile phones. The survey questionnaire included 37 questions, and the average time to complete the survey was 17 minutes. The information was gathered in May 2021 using a nationally representative survey of 1,000 participants.

Faithwire noted that while 51% of the 1,000 respondents polled stated they believe in a biblical worldview, the current research found that just roughly 6% genuinely do. To gather the data, the researchers asked a series of supplementary questions from those who profess to have a biblical worldview.

They found that there are significant contradictions between what people think and what the Bible teaches among the 51 % of individuals who profess to have a biblical worldview. Six of the 12 worldview questions had a minority of those who claimed to have a biblical worldview really having a biblical viewpoint, and another indicator had 49 % of those who claimed to have a biblical worldview having an unbiblical point of view.

The American Worldview Inventory, which was prepared by the Barna-led Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University and was released earlier this year, was significantly used in the latest poll. The most common worldview is a biblical one, which accounts for 6% of the population.

While a high majority of young adults claim to have a biblical worldview, statistics from the American Worldview Inventory demonstrate a disparity between "self-perception and reality."

Among Millennials, 44% claim a biblical worldview; results from the American Worldview Inventory, however, reveal that just 4% have one. Among the 53% of Gen Xers, only 6% have a biblical worldview. As for the 54% of Baby Boomers, there are only 8%, while those over 75 years old, which accounts for 62%, only 8% truly have a biblical worldview.

"Our studies show that Americans are neither deep nor sophisticated thinkers. Most people seem more interested in living a life of comfort and convenience than one of logical consistency and wisdom. Our children will continue to suffer the consequences of following in the unfortunate footsteps of their parents and elders. People who are willing to fight for a more reasonable way of thinking and acting can make a difference, but it will be slow progress," Barna observed.

Interestingly, when asked if God cares about what they think and do in every aspect of their lives, 78% responded to "God cares a lot," while just 6 % said "God does not care."

According to a comparable poll from 2017, just 10% of Americans had a genuinely "biblical worldview," and 46% of those polled claimed to live a Christian lifestyle.

"Every Christian can and should obtain a biblical worldview which is only achieved when a person believes that the Bible is true, authoritative, and then taught how it is applicable to every area of life, which enables them to live out those beliefs," FRC President Tony Perkins hopes.
With thousands of Australians renting out rooms and properties every year, it's essential to know how much you can afford to spend each month on a lease.

Gerry Incollingo, Managing Director of financial planning business LCI Partners, told FEMAIL the average Australian should spend a maximum of 30 per cent of their monthly gross income on rent.

Pushing further than this recommended amount can place strain on the person and their financial situation.

'Of course, circumstances differ across the board and sometimes it may seem necessary to compromise on other expenses to increase your ability to afford rent, however, it is commonly considered that pushing for higher than 30 per cent often generates housing stress,' Mr Incollingo said.

'Prospective renters should make it their primary focus to accurately determine how much they make and calculate how much they are able to afford within a safe sweet spot.'

Gerry Incollingo, Managing Director of financial planning business LCI Partners, told FEMAIL the average Australian earning a standard wage should spend a maximum of 30 per cent of their monthly gross income on rent

When does the rule apply?

Ideally the recommended amount acts as a guide or benchmark regarding how much the average Australian should be paying in rent.

Evidently the '30 per cent rule' might be too much for those earning a high annual wage, such as $100,000 or more.

Mr Incollingo said the key to success is 'understanding and managing your financial position.'

This requires 'smart budgeting' and 'proper planning' to ensure you don't suffer from rental stress.

'Periodically sit down and calculate your cost of living against how much you're taking home each month,' he said

How can expensive rent impact you?

Failing to understand and manage your financial position can result in 'rental stress' and the possibility of being unable to pay for additional bills.

Rental stress is where a low-income tenant faces housing costs that leave them without enough income for food, clothing and other essentials.

Mr Incollingo said unfortunately many Australians have 'no idea' whether their rent is unreasonable or not, leading to being blindsided of their rental stress.

'Statistics show that there has been a significant increase from 48 per cent in 1995 to 54 per cent in 2018 of low-income renters struggling to make rental payments, this equates to 1.5 million people being pushed into poverty due to high housing costs,' Mr Incollingo said.

Failing to understand and manage your financial position can result in 'rental stress' and the possibility of being unable to pay for additional bills

What are some ways to reduce rent?

Thankfully there are a number of ways to potentially reduce the cost of rent, including moving in with others and speaking to the landlord to negotiate a lower rate.

'If there is an opportunity to share accommodation with others that suit your circumstances go for it. Your individual financial burden is reduced and living with others certainly less lonely,' Mr Incollingo said.

He also suggested compromising on location or property styles, for instance opting for an apartment rather than a house.

'Sometimes the most attractive choice puts a burden on the financial aspect of renting. Balance your needs versus your wants and do plenty of research on your desired location and the surrounding area,' he said.

'Find a place that you can comfortably live in that falls within your financial means.'
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The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge stopped off for a takeaway fish supper at their favourite chippy after a busy day of royal engagements yesterday.

William, 38, and Kate, 39, popped into the award-winning Anstruther Fish Bar, in the coastal town of Anstruther, where they were 'regular customers' while students at St Andrews University 20 years ago.

The couple ordered a 7.95 takeaway haddock supper, wrapped in paper, which they ate on a bench on the pier. They went back for ice creams - William's in a cup, Kate's in a cone - and chatted to staff, with Kate saying it had been a 'trip down memory lane'.

It was a day full of nostalgia for the couple with events centered around the university where they met as freshers. The Cambridges arrived in St Andrews on Tuesday night, the day before their engagements in the town, and enjoyed a private 'date night' dinner at Forgan's restaurant where they were seated in a 'secluded' corner table.

After staying locally, rather than at the Queen's Edinburgh residence of Holyroodhouse, the couple enjoyed a morning of land yacht racing on a St Andrews beach. Later they met students and toured university grounds before making the short drive to the coastal village of Pittenweem to meet local fishermen and their families.

At the end of these official engagements, the Cambridges continued on to Anstruther, just four minutes' drive away. After their fish and chips they were met by a royal helicopter, which landed in the children's park, and flown back to the Palace of Holyroodhouse to host a special drive-in screening of Disney's Cruella for NHS staff.

Prince William and Kate will today return to London after an action-packed week of engagements. The visit is part of a broader royal charm offensive to help persuade Scotland to resist the demands of nationalists for independence.

Local haunt: William, 38, and Kate, 39, popped into the award-winning Anstruther Fish Bar, in the coastal town of Anstruther, some 20 miles east of Fife, where they were 'regular customers' while students at St Andrews 20 years ago

The couple ordered a 7.95 takeaway haddock supper, wrapped in paper, which they ate on a bench on the pier. They returned for ice creams - William's in a cup, Kate's in a cone - before returning to Edinburgh by helicopter

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge strolled along the pier to enjoy the fish and chips, away from the crowds

Prince William and Kate Middleton ordered a fish supper before returning for ice cream (left) and chatted to locals on their way through the town (right)

Delighted residents snapped photos of the couple as they strolled casually down the street and waited in line in the chip shop.

How the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's to St Andrews and the surrounding area unfolded

Delighted residents snapped photos of the couple as they strolled casually down the street and waited in line in the chip shop.

They took their takeaway and sat side-by-side on a nearby bench, away from the main street.

Later the couple returned to the fish bar and picked up an ice cream to go. It is not known what flavours they ordered but the takeaway has more than 70.

Staff at the Anstruther Fish Bar shared their excitement and details of the couple's visit in a Facebook post.

It read: 'We can hardly believe its almost 20 years since we last had the honour of frying up some Scottish haddock and chips for, our then regular customers, Prince William and Catherine Middleton, while they were students at St Andrews University.

A chippy fit for a (future) king! What Wills and Kate ordered from award-winning family business where the couple dined as students From the Anstruther Fish Bar menu: Traditional Specialty Haddock In Batter, 7.95 (10.65 for large) Fresh Scottish haddock deep fried in our 'secret recipe' light, crispy batter Includes a portion of chips Ice cream 'We make our own luxury dairy ice cream here on the premises to the original 'Brattesani' recipe (Est 1919) using only the finest fresh Scottish milk and cream. We have over 70 different varieties  a mixture of old favourites and many exciting new flavours too. It is not known what flavours William and Kate ordered. Anstruther Fish Bar is owned by husband and wife Robert and Alison Smith. Robert comes from a long line of East Neuk fishermen, tracing his fishing ancestry back to the 1700s. His grandfather Robert Smith OBE served on steam drifters from the East Neuk before becoming a prominent skipper at the port of Granton, Edinburgh. Mr Smith's son, David, followed his father to sea and worked his way up to the helm of 'Argonaut', his own 72ft fishing boat The Argonaut name adorned a series of successful fishing boats under his command. David also championed a series of innovations designed to make the work of his fellow fishermen safer and less arduous, and he was honoured with the MBE for his services to the fishing industry. In 1980 the younger Robert Smith and his wife Alison took the Argonaut name and gave it to their first business together, a fish processing business in St Monans which supplies fresh, hand-filleted haddock to fish and chip shops and retailers throughout the region. The couple took over the Anstruther Fish Bar and Restaurant in 2003 and now run the chippy with their children, nieces and nephews. The chippy was crowned the UKs Seafish Fish and Chip Shop of the Year in 2008/09, beating some 12,000 outlets across the UK. The fish and chip shop has also won Food Awards Scotlands Takeaway of the Year Award (2014). Advertisement

'Fast-forward to this afternoon and you can imagine our excitement when we had the privilege of welcoming back the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (or, to give them their official Scottish titles ... The Earl and Countess of Strathearn) to Anstruther Fish Bar.

'Their Royal Highnesses have been in the East Neuk of Fife today and surprised us by ending their visit with a takeaway fish supper, which the Duchess told us, was a lovely "trip down memory lane".

'They enjoyed the whole takeaway experience, as most visitors to Anstruther do, sitting on a bench by the harbour, while no doubt keeping a watchful eye out for the local, hungry seagulls!

'Before heading back to their waiting helicopter, they popped in for some ice cream and to chat with some of our thrilled staff.

'The Duke thanked us for the fish and chips and made a point on telling Andrew that they were just as good, if not better than he remembered from his student days.'

Other residents shared their sightings on social media, with one writing on Facebook: 'Prince William and Kate visited today for a fish supper - sitting down the pier and a wee walk along Shore Street. They stopped to chat to us on the way for their cone.

The owner of Brackneess House Luxury B&B wrote: 'Great to see William and Kate, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, enjoying themselves back in Andtruther again today.

'They were so relaxed and looked just liked locals as they wandered around the town and of course taking in a tasty fish supper from the world's best Anstruther Fish Bar (just as they did regularly when they were both students in St Andrews.

'They could've stayed the night with us too, but unfortunately we are full! Hopefully next time... It's definitely handy for parking anyway, as their helicopter was parked just in front of the house!'

Later the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge hosted NHS Charities Together and NHS staff for a unique drive-in cinema to watch a special screening of Disney's Cruella at the Palace - where they are staying - on the penultimate day of their week-long visit to Scotland.

Before the screening, Kate delivered a short speech in which she paid tribute to NHS staff across Scotland and thanked them for their dedication, commitment and personal sacrifice.

She said: 'As Joint Patrons of NHS Charites Together, William and I are absolutely delighted that so many of you could join us here tonight. We wanted to thank you for the extraordinary dedication, commitment and personal sacrifice you have shown in supporting our communities through this pandemic.

'It is a real privilege to work with NHS Charities Together. For the last 13 years it has worked tirelessly to improve services for patients and support NHS staff and volunteers, both practically and emotionally. Today, this work has never been more important.

'So, with an enormous thank you to Her Majesty The Queen for allowing us to host the first-ever drive-in film night here at Holyrood. And with a huge thank you to Disney and BAFTA, for putting on this evening, and to the fabulous actress Tipper for joining us here tonight, William and I invite you to grab your popcorn, cuddle up under your blankets and be transported to 1970s Britain for an evening of much-deserved fun, drama, glamour and escapism!'

Disney is giving Cruella de Vil the live-action treatment with its anticipated new film Cruella, starring Emma Stone as the sinister protagonist, Tipper Seifert-Cleveland as 'young Cruella' and Emma Thompson as Baroness von Hellman.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge popped in for fish and chips before heading to Edinburgh

The owner of a nearby B&B shared photos of the Duke and Duchess' helicopter on the green

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's helicopter landed in the town and took the couple back to the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh

The Duchess of Cambridge was smartly dressed in a striped top and Holland Cooper blazer

Earlier the couple paid a visit to St Andrews, where they met at university 20 years ago, and spoke to students about their pandemic experiences. They also visited St Salvator's, the halls of residence they both shared.

The couple became friends in their first year before romance blossomed after William saw 'hot' Kate strut down a charity fashion show catwalk in a sheer dress. They graduated in 2005 and William proposed five years later.

William and Kate, who share Prince George, seven, Princess Charlotte, six, and Prince Louis, three, and celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary this year, were in excellent spirits as they took a trip down memory lane before continuing to Fife where they met local fishermen and their families.

During the visit to Pittenweem Harbour on the Firth of Forth, the Duke and Duchess were shown the fishermens boats, which catch langoustines, lobsters and crabs.

After the brief stop in Anstruther the couple boarded the royal helicopter, which landed in the local children's play park, and returned to the Palace of Holyroodhouse to host a special drive-in screening of Disney's Cruella for NHS staff (pictured)

The couple arrived to greet their guests in a Land Rover Defender that previously belonged to Prince Philip, who passed away aged 99 on April 9

Their Royal Highnesses spoke with individuals involved in various stages of the fishing process, including fishermen, the harbourmaster and a fish merchant, before enjoying a seafood BBQ with local restaurateur Amy Elles, who buys produce from the harbour at the local market.

Earlier in the day William and Kate went head-to-head in a land yacht race in St Andrews at West Sands Beach.

Kate, who was dressed down in her favourite 159 Longshore Barbour jacket, 310 See by Chloe boots and a 115 Campbell's of Beauly Fairisle Jumper, appeared unfazed by the strong winds and wet weather, and beamed as she shot past her husband.

At one point the Duchess's back wheel was lifted into the air by the force of the wind - but not even that was enough to stop Kate from smiling.

The royal couple were joined by a group from Fife Young Carers, which helps young carers maintain their well-being through a range of outdoor activities, workshops, and residential trips.

Plenty to smile about! The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge today returned to the University of St Andrews where they met as students 20 years ago. The couple were in excellent spirits despite the rain

University sweethearts: Prince William and Kate Middleton on the day of their graduation ceremony in 2005

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge spoke to young carers about the challenges they have faced during the pandemic.

They also heard about the charitys work to raise awareness of the role of young carers in the local area, including introducing a 'Young Carers Authorisation Card' scheme in schools, pharmacies and other medical settings.

The card helps young carers easily identify themselves, without having to repeatedly outline their circumstances and personal stories to those in the local community.

The session was hosted by Blown Away, a local company who are the only commercial land yachting company in Scotland, and host sessions in St Andrews and other iconic Scottish locations.

Head-to-head: Duke and Duchess of Cambridge sailed down the sand at West Sands Beach, St Andrews, yesterday morning

There she blows! The Duchess of Cambridge had her land yachting kart lifted off the sand in a safety demonstration

Thrilled: The couple beamed as they crossed West Sands Beach, St Andrews, despite the bad weather

The birthplace of a royal romance: As William and Kate return to St Andrews 20 years on from when they met in halls, how a friendship between a homesick prince and his 'hot' flatmate bloomed into a first love that's stood the test of time

William and Kate both initially enrolled to study History of Art (he switched to geography after that) and lived in the same hall of residence, St Salvators  known as Sallies.

As Kate recalled in their engagement interview: I turned bright red and sort of scuttled off, feeling very shy about meeting him.

It wasnt too long, however, before, seeing him every day around the campus  and in the university pool where they often swam together early in the morning  she was as relaxed with him as he was with her.

William had hoped that by avoiding a big metropolitan university hed be able to merge into local life relatively unnoticed. Now he was finding that in a small town like St Andrews the opposite was true.

He was weary of avoiding eye contact with strangers and pointedly declined invitations to join university clubs.

The young prince reportedly struggled with homesickness but found a listening ear in Kate, although there was initially no romantic involvement.

Centre of attention: It was in 2002 that Kate reportedly caught William's eye when she sashayed in a see-through sheer dress with visible black underwear down the runway at a university charity fashion show, prompting Wills' much-quoted comment, 'Wow, Kate's hot!'

At the time she had a boyfriend, Rupert Finch, a dark and handsome fourth-year student reading law. (These days Rupert is a company lawyer with Johnson Matthey, the science and tech company, married, with three children, to Lady Natasha Rufus Isaacs, dressmaker daughter of the Marquess of Reading.)

But then, William also had a girlfriend, second-year English student Carley Massy-Birch, a Devon farmers strikingly attractive daughter who was, according to her mother Mimi, definitely an item with the prince for a couple of months.

Meanwhile, meeting around the campus as friends, William and Kate were entirely relaxed in each others company. The tall, slender brunette who liked an early morning jog soon became one of the group who joined William for breakfast before lectures.

The budding friendship, it must be said, did not go unnoticed. Fellow students would joke to her, Bet youll be wearing a tiara soon. Certainly, some of the other girls in her year, a number of them from well-connected families, were positively suspicious of the middle-class girls easy closeness to the Queens grandson.

Graduating into royal life: Kate Middleton at her graduation in 2005, by which time her relationship with Prince William had been made public. He proposed five years later

It was in early 2002 that Kate reportedly caught William's eye when she sashayed in a see-through sheer dress with visible black underwear down the runway at a university charity fashion show, prompting William's much-quoted comment, 'Wow, Kate's hot!'

Unsurprisingly, perhaps, that was the night their relationship matured from friendship into romance. Later that evening after the show they were drinking together, and reported to have been seen kissing.

She was different from the kind of girls he had dated in the past  the socially ambitious offspring of his fathers polo-playing circle  and he found her natural and unaffected ways comfortingly reassuring. When he missed a seminar she would cover by letting him copy her notes.

Meanwhile, in his uncertainty at St Andrews, William had been talking to his father and to his former housemaster at Eton, Dr Andrew Gailey, about dropping out at the end of the first year in 2002. And yet, tellingly, it was after talking to Kate about it that he made up his mind to stay.

Taking a swing at love: Prince William practises golf on the beach at St Andrews in 2003

She had also been uncertain about whether to remain at St Andrews, she told him, but on the whole thought it better to stay. She felt that having invested so much time there, it would be mad to chuck it in.

When William told her he thought his biggest mistake was his degree course, it was Kate who suggested switching to geography. Which he did.

Not even when Kate and William, together with two others, shared a flat in their second year  in aptly named Hope Street  did anyone think they were an item.

The foursome were William, his Eton chum Fergus Boyd  a godfather to Prince George  Army officers daughter Olivia Bleasdale, and Kate. William had asked Kate to join the group.

Over the next three university years their relationship deepened. One of their circle, Michael Choong, who played rugby with William and is these days a property developer in Scotland, recalls, They never showed any affection in public. Kate was good for him.

'She was very loyal and did not gossip. William was naturally gregarious  hed always get a round of beers in at the pub  but Kate was less so and hated having her picture taken.

Young romance: Kate Middleton and her father Michael leave a shop in St Andrews in 2005

As university flatmates, no one saw anything special about William being one of the guests at Kates 21st birthday party, a 1920s-themed extravaganza with flapper girls and the Charleston. William arrived a bit late.

That was the moment he was first introduced to Carole and Michael Middleton. And Kate would attend Williams Out Of Africa 21st birthday party at Windsor Castle.

Significantly, however, he had already had her as a guest at Wood Farm, the royals favourite bolthole on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk.

When the prince gave an interview marking his coming of age, he was evasive about his love life. Theres been a lot of speculation about every single girl Im with, he said. Its a pain for the girls.

But he couldnt keep Kate a secret forever, try as he might. Skiing in the Swiss resort of Klosters with his father, he agreed to a photocall on the understanding the photographers would leave him alone afterwards.

None of the media there knew Kate was present too. Photocall over, she joined him at the ski lift and  flash, flash, flash  suddenly the world knew Dianas boy was in love. Kates life would never be the same again.

Royally good fun: Prince William at his graduation from St Andrews University in June 2005

Proud father: Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall at Prince William's 2005 graduation

Granny was there, too! The Queen attended her grandson Prince William's 2005 graduation

By now they were in their third year at St Andrews, and installed in a comfortable farmhouse on the nearby 400-acre Strathtyrum estate. Not alone, of course. Two other discreet chums joined them, Alasdair Coutts-Wood and Oli Baker.

Here Kates natural home-making skills were allowed to flourish  she ran up some new gingham curtains. There in the kitchen was her dream  an Aga cooker  and not only that, in the baronial dining room was a table that could seat 18. More dinner parties followed.

Even so, William was beginning to show the first signs of unease at being tied down so young. It was a constant in his mind in the early years of the relationship. They agreed to spend the summer break apart.

He slipped away to America, flying to Tennessee to join the family of an old (and platonic) friend, Anna Sloan, a department store heiress who was at Edinburgh University. Kate went to the Dordogne as a guest of the family of one of their old flatmates, Fergus Boyd. One evening she disclosed that their being apart was something of a trial separation, adding, I miss him.

She didnt have to wait too long before seeing him. At summers end they were back together again sharing the same house in their final year. Judged on what happened next, William had been missing her too.

The couple graduated in 2005 and five years later - after spending a summer apart - William proposed while on holiday in Kenya.

They made their engagement public in November 2010 and married the following April. The couple celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary this year.

BY RICHARD KAY and GEOFFREY LEVY. A VERSION OF THIS STORY FIRST APPEARED IN WEEKEND MAGAZINE
Banning homework from schools to benefit both teachers and students sparked a fierce debate this morning on GMB as education experts clashed over whether teachers are to blame for not making it more 'appealing'.

Appearing on Good Morning Britain, Vice Chairman for the Campaign for Real Education Katie Ivens, argued that 'homework is of great value,' while Professor Robert Winston said he would get rid of GCSEs and A levels and urged children to focus on hobbies instead.

It comes after new research by the Times Education Commission, found that 70 per cent of teachers think there's too much homework and only 20 per cent believe homework is essential for learning.

Speaking to presenters Susanna Reid and Ben Shepherd, Katie argued: 'Homework enables children to take work home that they've been studying at school, give it their own perspective, interact with it, learn more. I actually think it helps to create critical thinking as a matter of fact, which is a very good thing. You can advance what you're learning.

'It's an opportunity to move on. It should not be banned, absolutely not. If it needs improve it, then improve it. If teachers are bored by it, they better cultivate their interests and become good setters of good homework.

There may be problems with teaching and teacher's attitudes, quite possibly. But homework is most important.'

Professor Robert Winston (pictured) instead said he would get rid of GCSEs and ALlevels and urged children to focus on hobbies

Taking to the comments section, one person vented: 'This lady is really out of touch. When was the last time she was in a classroom? Teachers teach during the day and go home and still carry on working (marking/planning). We hate homework. If it's done it's done, if not oh well' (pictured)

However, Professor Robert Winston went on to say that homework has a 'very limited purpose' and said it 'destroyed much of his homelife' as a consequence.

'I think the first thing to say is there's far too much homework and it should be reduced,' he explained. 'The evidence it produces a better achievement is just not there - there's no good statistical evidence.

'I think we need to listen to teachers. They're under too much strain at the moment and not just because of Covid. They're already having to work very, very hard and to add to that to that is a very serious issue. In my view, if it's not really doing the children any good it's not worthwhile.'

And it wasn't long before viewers took to Twitter and were left raging by Katie's comments - with many branding Professor Robert a 'legend.'

Katie Ivens (pictured), the Vice Chairman for the Campaign for Real Education was branded 'out of touch' and 'patronising' as she argued that homework should not be banned and that 'teaching standards' are the problem

The guests debated whether homework should be banned. Pictured, on today's show

'This lady is really out of touch,' wrote one. 'When was the last time she was in a classroom? Teachers teach during the day and go home and still carry on working (marking/planning). We hate homework. If it's done it's done, if not oh well.'

A second commented: 'Katie, shh. Homework cannot be done at the same level as schoolwork, teachers have to consider if parents can understand it, have time to help their children etc.'

Professor Robert Winston went on to argue that he believes A levels actually 'prevent' critical thinking - before branding that a 'very different argument altogether.'

'We're talking about homework and the need for children to develop their hobbies and perhaps if they can and have enough money, play a musical instrument, there's a whole range of things they can be doing at home which contributes to their learning,' he continued.

Taking to the comments section, one person penned: 'For me...everyday is homework. We learn something new every day whether it be from watching documentaries on tv or doing quick Google searches. I'm nearly 30 and I find myself learning new facts that I was NEVER taught at school' (pictured)

After hearing that viewers were in agreement with the Professor, Katie responded: 'Well maybe the homework set and the quality is not very good. Maybe the teaching standards in this country are not the best in the world. Homework is an opportunity for children to learn if they;re not learning much in the day.'

Taking to the comments section, one person who tuned in penned: 'For me...everyday is homework. We learn something new every day whether it be from watching documentaries on tv or doing quick Google searches. I'm nearly 30 and I find myself learning new facts that I was NEVER taught at school.'

Another commented: 'yes yes Robert Winston all kids up and down the country CHEERING and throwing away the paper stack at home,' while a third added: 'Homework has become a substitute for actual teaching because there is no way you can learn 20 GCSE subjects all in class, or at all effectivley.'

However, there were a few in agreement with Katie, with one writing: 'Im in support of homework. All the people on here who are against homework were probably just shit at their own school work and a bit bitter about it.'

Another suggested: 'There is too much choice on the curriculum, to stop homework reduce the choices on the curriculum to just the basic's Maths, English, Science.'
Kate Middleton and Prince William joined Emma Thompson and Emma Stone, the stars of Disney's new film Cruella, for a laughter-filled video call on Monday.

The Duke, 38, and Duchess of Cambridge, 39, who are enjoying a tour of Scotland this week, chatted with the leading actors ahead of a drive-in screening of the film for NHS staff on Wednesday.

'Nice to see you, darling,' Thompson, 62, told Prince William as they started the call, with the actress having known the royal since he was young, thanks to her friendship with his father Prince Charles.

The call saw Stone, 32, mention shooting a scene outside Buckingham Palace, recalling: 'I was riding a motorcycle around The Mall.'

'We should have had you stopped, Emma, it's very dangerous,' replied Prince William, jokingly.

On Monday evening, Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge took part in a video call with Emma Thompson (top left) and Emma Stone (top right). They discussed what it was like to make the film in parts of London, the incredible costumes featured in it as well as the inspirational work done by NHS staff across the country and how important it is to thank them

Disney is giving Cruella de Vil the live-action treatment with its anticipated new film Cruella, starring Emma Stone (pictured) as the sinister protagonist, Tipper Seifert-Cleveland as 'young Cruella' and Emma Thompson as Baroness von Hellman

During the call, Stone, 32, mentioned shooting a scene outside Buckingham Palace, recalling: 'I was riding a motorcycle around The Mall.' Pictured, Emma as Cruella when driving around London

The royal couple thanked the celebrities for letting them share Cruella with NHS workers at the Palace of Holyrood two days before the film's premiere date.

Kate also asked the stars about their experience on set, and Thompson discussed the costumes designed for the film.

She joked that she often thought the 1970s outfits had once belonged to her as they were that familiar.

'I kept looking at all the frocks and thinking, "I think that's mine. I'm sure I've worn that,"' she said, adding: 'You won't remember because you're all too young.'

In another section, Prince William spoke about being propositioned by nursing home resident Betty McGee, 96, during an engagement earlier in the week.

The Duke, 38, and Duchess of Cambridge, 39, pictured at the screening, chatted with the leading actors ahead of a drive-in screening of the film for NHS staff yesterday

The couple arrived to greet their guests in a Land Rover Defender that previously belonged to Prince Philip, who passed away aged 99 on April 9

I got propositioned by a 96-year-old lady called Betty yesterday who wanted to kiss me, he said.

She's in a care home with her daughter and I said, Betty, if I do that, I'm going to get slapped on the back of the head for being inappropriate, social distancing.

She said, I'll have you afterwards then! She was a right character.

Laughing, Kate added: This is what happens when I'm not around.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge hosted NHS Charities Together and NHS staff for a unique drive-in cinema to watch a special screening of Disney's Cruella at the Palace - where they are staying - on the penultimate day of their week-long visit to Scotland.

Before the screening, Kate delivered a short speech in which she paid tribute to NHS staff across Scotland and thanked them for their dedication, commitment and personal sacrifice.

Before the screening, Kate delivered a short speech in which she paid tribute to NHS staff across Scotland and thanked them for their dedication, commitment and personal sacrifice

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are Joint Patrons of NHS Charites Together, whom they welcomed last night for the special screening along with NHS staff members in Scotland

She said: 'As Joint Patrons of NHS Charites Together, William and I are absolutely delighted that so many of you could join us here tonight. We wanted to thank you for the extraordinary dedication, commitment and personal sacrifice you have shown in supporting our communities through this pandemic.

'It is a real privilege to work with NHS Charities Together. For the last 13 years it has worked tirelessly to improve services for patients and support NHS staff and volunteers, both practically and emotionally. Today, this work has never been more important.

'So, with an enormous thank you to Her Majesty The Queen for allowing us to host the first-ever drive-in film night here at Holyrood. And with a huge thank you to Disney and BAFTA, for putting on this evening, and to the fabulous actress Tipper for joining us here tonight, William and I invite you to grab your popcorn, cuddle up under your blankets and be transported to 1970s Britain for an evening of much-deserved fun, drama, glamour and escapism!'

Disney is giving Cruella de Vil the live-action treatment with its anticipated new film Cruella, starring Emma Stone as the sinister protagonist, Tipper Seifert-Cleveland as 'young Cruella' and Emma Thompson as Baroness von Hellman.
Paris Lees says that going to prison was a 'real turning point' in her life because she was able to escape the 'abuse' in her life and think about 'what direction' she wanted to go in.

Journalist Paris, now 33, grew up in Hucknall, Nottinghamshire, where she identified as a gay man, and at 18 served eight months in prison for a robbery she committed two years earlier.

Appearing on Lorraine today to promote her new book, What It Feels Like for a Girl, the trans activist said that prison wasn't the 'worst time' of her life, because it gave her 'space to think'.

Paris has previously spoken openly about the shocking abuse and bullying she faced as a teen - including being groomed by 'grown men' who she had sex with in 'public toilets' at the age of 14.

Journalist Paris, now 33, grew up in Hucknall, Nottinghamshire, where she self-identified as a gay man, and at 18 served eight months in prison for a robbery she committed two years earlier

Paris Lees said during an appearance on Lorraine today that going to prison was a 'real turning point' in her life because she was able to escape the 'abuse' in her life

'Weirdly prison for me was a real turning point,' she said on the show today. 'There are some really difficult things in there [her book] and a lot of this was abuse, and prison wasn't the worst time of my life ironically.

'I've been thinking about prison during lockdown, because I've been here before when you don't have your freedom and we really take our freedom for granted sometimes. It gave me a real space to think and think about the direction I wanted to go in, in my life.

'I look back at that screwed up kid, who is desperately unhappy and would do anything to escape, did do anything to escape, and got into a lot of trouble and look at this person on the screen and think, "This is two different people".'

Paris described her new book as 'warts and all', admitting that while it was 'tough' to write, she felt certain 'conversations' needed to be had.

Paris described her new book to host Lorraine Kelly as 'warts and all', admitting that while it was 'tough' to write she felt certain 'conversations' needed to be had

'It's why it's taken me so long and it's really emotional to be here today,' said Paris. 'It's taken seven years to tell this story. It's not been easy story to write and it wasn't the easiest story to live to tell you the truth.

'It has been a difficult one for my family, my mum and dad don't read this with undiluted pleasure. It's dealing with some really tough issues, but I think we need to have that conversation because that was my childhood.'

She added: 'I don't want to get too heavy, I've been signing the books individually and on one I wrote, "There are other people with stories like this that aren't there to tell them". I think it's important everyone knows you can have a good life.'

Paris is currently an ambassador for beauty company Pantene and says she's proud to be representing transgender people in the media.

Paris is currently an ambassador for beauty company Pantene and says she's proud to be representing transgender people in the media

'When I was growing up, the only time you saw people like me we were presented as objects of ridicule or pity or disgust,' said Paris.

She says that Nadia Almada - the first transgender winner of Big Brother - was the first trans person she saw represented in the media, and that she's pleased about the 'progress' LGBTQ people have made.

'To see people in 2021, trans people and people from all different backgrounds on covers of magazines and on the news, talking about things that have nothing to do with being LGBT.

'We have a long way to go but we have made a lot of progress and it's great to be part of it.'
Queen Maxima of the Netherlands commanded attention in a colourful coat today as she visited Limburg for a tour of the region.

The mother-of-three, 50, arrived at the Brightlands Campus Greenport to hear about the international open innovation community's research into healthy and safe food, as well as future and organic farming.

Showcasing her fashion prowess, the Argentinian-born royal wasn't afraid to add plenty of splashes of colour to her ensemble by sporting a vibrant jacket over an emerald dress.

She teamed her eye-catching outfit with a matching green hat and high heels, while also carrying a stylish clutch.

Queen Maxima and King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands on a visit to De Maasduinen National Park today

The Dutch royals enjoyed a walk through Nationaal Park de Maasduinen during their region visit to North-Limburg

Queen Maxima of the Netherlands (pictured) commanded attention in a colourful coat today as she visited Limburg for a tour of the region

The mother-of-three (pictured), 50, arrived at the Brightlands Campus Greenport to hear about the international open innovation community's research into healthy and safe food, as well as future and organic farming

The wife of King Willem-Alexander, 54, who is mother to daughters Amalia, 17, Alexia, 15, and Ariane, 14, showcased her love of accessories on the outing by adding some statement diamond earrings to her look.

Looking as glamorous as ever, Maxima draped her coat over her shoulders as she tried to shield herself from the rain.

Maxima's golden tresses were mostly covered by her hat, but were styled in a sleek up-do and she drew attention to her features with a touch of make-up.

Showcasing her fashion prowess, the Argentinian-born royal (pictured) wasn't afraid to add plenty of splashes of colour to her ensemble by sporting a vibrant jacket over an emerald dress

Maxima teamed her eye-catching outfit with a matching green hat and high heels, while also carrying a stylish clutch (pictured)

Holding a pair of emerald gloves in hand, the queen completed her outfit with a protective cream face mask.

She visited the campus alongside her husband King Willem-Alexander, with the royal couple set to speak about innovations in the field of agriculture and health.

The couple later paid a visit to De Maasduinen National Park and strolled through its stunning countryside.

Earlier this week, Maxima stepped out in a tweed tailored suit as she arrived for a visit to the Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences.

The glamorous royal appeared to struggle as she got out of the car at Brightlands Campus Greenport

The royal couple in conversation with young people in the town hall of Venray, during a regional visit to North Limburg

The royal couple took a moment to reflect on the wonders of the national park and admire its scenery

King Willem-Alexander of The Netherlands and Queen Maxima of The Netherlands visit Nationaal Park de Maasduinen

She teamed her look with a black waisted belt, stilettos and a leather bag with a wood handle.

Matching her protective black face mask to her outfit, Maxima sported a pair of hoop earrings and a large flower ring as well as gold bracelets.

Maxima looked like she meant business, strolling into the building clutching a blue notebook and pen while smiling under her mask.

It was the latest in a string of royal engagements for the queen in the Netherlands' second largest city, a major logistic and economic centre which is home to Europe's largest seaport.
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Kate Middleton and Prince William were treated to a traditional Beating the Retreat ceremony complete with bagpipers and a troupe of Highland dancers on the final evening of their week-long tour of Scotland.

The Duchess of Cambridge, 39, swapped her tennis gear for a baby blue Catherine Walker coat dress this afternoon to join her husband at the Closing Ceremony of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland.

Kate looked a picture of elegance in the chic belted wool coat which cut at the knee. Having let her locks loose throughout the day, the mother-of-three swept her chestnut waves into a more refined half-updo.

The couple, both wearing blue, arrived at the General Assembly Buildings after a busy day of engagements. William was supposed to be Lord High Commissioner at the General Assembly in May last year, but the event was cancelled. The Duke was appointed by the Queen as her personal representative. Commissioners and other attendees joined the event remotely from across Scotland and around the world, with only a small number of people present in the assembly hall.

Kate teamed her coat with her 425 Emmy London 'Rebecca' Riviera Suede blue stiletto heels and a Strathberry clutch bag in a navy blue croc leather, designed in Scotland. She also wore the Queen's Floral Bouquet Brooch with its matching stud earrings, which she previously borrowed for the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey in 2018, as well as a 1,400 18ct gold pendant necklace by London-based jeweller Kiki McDonough featuring a blue topaz stone at its centre.

Earlier today Kate paid a visit to Mila Sneddon, of Falkirk, a five-year-old cancer patient who featured in her Hold Still photography project after she was photographed kissing her father through a window during lockdown last year. After speaking to her on the phone last autumn, she kept her promise and wore a pink dress - after the little girl said it was her dream to meet a princess wearing her favourite colour.

On their return to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, where the couple have been staying, they were treated to a performance by Highland dancers during a Beating of the Retreat - and Mila was a guest of honour.

Kate Middleton swapped her tennis gear for a baby blue Catherine Walker coat this afternoon as she joined Prince William at the Closing Ceremony of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland

The couple, both wearing blue, arrived at the General Assembly Buildings this afternoon after a busy schedule of engagements on their final day in Scotland

Kate teamed her coat with her 425 Emmy London 'Rebecca' Riviera Suede blue stiletto heels and a Strathberry clutch bag in a navy blue croc leather, designed in Scotland

On their return to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, where the couple have been staying, they were treated to a performance by Highland dancers

The Duchess of Cambridge meets Highland dancers during a Beating of the Retreat at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh

The Duchess of Cambridge, the Duke of Cambridge, Lady Wallace, and Moderator Lord Jim Wallace (right) after the Closing Ceremony of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, at Assembly Hall in Edinburgh

Kate also paid a visit to Mila Sneddon, of Falkirk, a five-year-old cancer patient who featured in her Hold Still photography project after she was photographed kissing her father through a window during lockdown last year. After speaking to her on the phone last autumn, she kept her promise and wore a pink dress - the little girl's favourite colour

At this evening's Closing Ceremony of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, William delivered a speech in his role as Lord High Commissioner.

After thanking the moderator on their 'deft handling' of this 'unusual General Assembly', he said it has been an 'honour' to represent his grandmother and that he enjoyed his meeting with the First Minister earlier this week.

'Catherine and I came here to listen, so we might learn more about your challenges, but also, to learn of your hopes and aspirations, so that we may serve alongside you with the combination of humility and conviction that speaks so powerfully to us,' he said.

'As I sat in Canongate Kirk last Sunday listening to Neil Gardners sermon, I felt particularly fortunate that my week as Lord High Commissioner coincides with Pentecost. A week that celebrates the way in which the Holy Spirit kindled within Jesuss early followers a desire to learn from others  whose tongues they could now understand  and to share far and wide the Christian message of love and service. I have kept this message at the forefront of my mind all week.'

William thanked members of the Church of Scotland for the work they've done, the witness they have offered and the service they have given during the pandemic and wished the congregation 'renewed strength in your endeavours'.

'As Catherine and I travelled around Scotland and met Scots of all faiths and none, we saw how much work is being done,' he said, before recounting some of the stand out stories the couple heard this week during their tour, including a football fan who revealed he was pulled back from the brink of suicide by a trusted friend who was there for him in his time of need.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrive for the Closing Ceremony of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, at Assembly Hall in Edinburgh

Kate wore the Queen's Floral Bouquet Brooch with its matching stud earrings, which she previously displayed at the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey in 2018, as well as a 1,400 18ct gold pendant necklace by London-based jeweller Kiki McDonough featuring a blue topaz stone at its centre

The Duchess of Cambridge, 39, looked a picture of elegance in the chic belted wool coat which cut at the knee. Having let her locks loose throughout the day, the mother-of-three swept her chestnut waves into a more refined half updo

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrive at the Closing Ceremony of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland at the General Assembly Buildings

Prince William was supposed to be Lord High Commissioner at the General Assembly in May last year, but the event was cancelled. He was appointed by the Queen as her personal representative. Commissioners and other attendees join the event remotely from across Scotland and around the world, with only a small number of people present in the assembly hall

At this evening's Closing Ceremony of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, William delivered a speech in his role as Lord High Commissioner. After thanking the moderator on their 'deft handling' of this 'unusual General Assembly', he said it has been an 'honour' to represent his grandmother

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge during the Closing Ceremony of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, at Assembly Hall in Edinburgh

William thanked members of the Church of Scotland for the work they've done, the witness they have offered and the service they have given during the pandemic and wished the congregation 'renewed strength in your endeavours'

The royal couple pictured chatting to the congregation as they left after the closing ceremony of the General Assembly this afternoon

The Duchess of Cambridge meets Highland dancers during a Beating of the Retreat at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh

The Duchess of Cambridge pictured waving to their entertainers during a Beating of the Retreat at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh

In an apparent attempt to bolster the union, William said he believes we can be 'confident about the future' - one which 'embraces change' while 'holding those values close'

Kate leans in to speak to her husband as the pair sit and enjoy a performance by local Highland dancers in Edinburgh today

The Duke and Duchess looked thrilled to be meeting the talented local dancers, who wore traditional dress for the performance

The couple looked relaxed and at ease in each other's company, enjoying a joke as they watched the performance at the Palace

Having met the Duchess earlier in the day, five-year-old Mila Sneddon joined the royal couple for the performance as their special guests - pictured with her sister Jodi, and parents Lynda and Scott Sneddon, during the Beating of the Retreat

New best friend! Adorable Mila is pictured waving at 'princess' Kate, whom she met earlier today. The brave little girl featured in the Duchess' Hold Still project

The Duchess of Cambridge watches Highland dancers perform at the Beating of the Retreat at the Palace of Holyroodhouse

Kate wore the Queen's Floral Bouquet Brooch with its matching stud earrings, which she previously borrowed for the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey in 2018, as well as a 1,400 18ct gold pendant necklace by London-based jeweller Kiki McDonough featuring a blue topaz stone at its centre

Massed pipes and drums at the Beating of the Retreat at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, attended by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

He also referenced cheeky pensioner Betty, 96, who was 'star of the show at Queen's Bay Lodge', brave Mila, the founder of Heavy Sound, the students of St Andrews - where he and Kate attended university - and the NHS staff they met at the drive-in cinema last night at Holyroodhouse.

'These people make Scotland the vibrant, friendly, innovative and determined place Catherine and I love, and is so important to us,' William added. 'I am shaped by this place. The abiding affection I feel for it is rooted in my experience of its everyday life - in people, relationships, and its ethic of neighbourliness.'

In an apparent attempt to bolster the union, William said he believes we can be 'confident about the future' - one which 'embraces change' while 'holding those values close'.

This morning the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge met children from Canal View Primary School on the visit to Craiglockhart Tennis Centre and heard more about the LTA Youth Programme and the work of the Lawn Tennis Association, of which the Duchess is patron.

Kate, a keen sportswoman, donned her recycled preppy 90 Ralph Lauren cable knit sweatshirt, black trousers and 55 2750 Cotu Classic Superga trainers, while William, 38, also ditched his jacket and rolled up his shirt sleeves.

They both took part in a friendly game of doubles, with Kate running and leaning to reach the ball at points. The royal mother-of-three also offered pointers to the youngsters.

It was the second stop on a busy day of engagements for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as their week-long tour of Scotland comes to an end.

Earlier the couple visited Starbank Park where they helped nursery school children scatter plant seeds that will attract butterflies. They also spent time with teenagers planting sunflowers as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award.

The Duchess of Cambridge looked polished in a 130 polka dot jumper from Jigsaw and favourite 140 Massimo Dutti blazer for the morning outing.

The Duchess of Cambridge, a keen sportswoman, looked in her element as she joined local schoolchildren on the court at Craiglockhart Tennis Centre

Anyone for a spot of tennis? The Duchess of Cambridge recycled a Ralph Lauren jumper for the outing today

Sporty Kate looked ready to play in her black trousers, Ralph Lauren jumper and 55 Superga trainers

She was joined at the event by Prince William, 38, who rolled up his sleeves but did not pick up a racket

It is the second stop on a busy day of engagements for the couple. Earlier the couple spent time with local children at Edinburgh's Starbank Park, where they planted flowers for bees and got stuck in with gardening

Polished pair: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge looked smartly dressed for the outing to Starbank Park today

The Duchess of Cambridge cooed over Penelope Stewart on the visit to Starbank Park, in Edinburgh, today

At one point Kate and William both put on gardening gloves and helped children with planting a garden. As Kate gave the youngsters tips, William joked she was getting 'free labour'.

The green-fingered royal also revealed she 'loves weeding' in a conversation with one girl.

Starbank Park is run by the City of Edinburgh Council and protected by Fields in Trust which has William as its president, a role previously held by his grandfather the Duke of Edinburgh.

The couple heard about the trust's Green Space Index, an annual barometer of green space provision and distribution across the UK, and chatted to volunteers and families about the importance of the park to the local community.

The index identifies the provision of green spaces and this year's report found more than 2.77 million people live further than a 10-minute walk from a local park or green space, and only 6% of all parks and green spaces are protected in perpetuity.

Prince William and Kate will return to London later today after spending a week in Scotland. The visit is part of a broader royal charm offensive to help persuade Scotland to resist the demands of nationalists for independence.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge spent time chatting to the youngsters at Craiglockhart Tennis Centre, in Edinburgh

The Duchess of Cambridge played friendly doubles with some of the schoolgirls at the event this morning

The keen sportswoman was ready to get involved in the session, which was run by the Lawn Tennis Association

The Duke of Sussex kept his blazer on but the Duchess changed into a Ralph Lauren jumper for the outing

Prince William looked a little less sure of himself as he took to the court for the training session today

The Duke of Cambridge picked up a racket as he joined Kate Middleton and local schoolchildren on the court

Nice job! The Duchess of Cambridge bumps fists with a schoolboy as she joins children for a tennis session today

Kate Middleton appeared in excellent spirits as she chatted with the schoolchildren. Right, speaking to one little girl

The Duchess of Cambridge appeared to be giving pointers to one young tennis player during the session today

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge burst into laughter as they shared a joke with the young tennis players

Prince William and Kate - wearing a necklace bearing her children's first initials - chatted away to local school children in Edinburgh today

Yesterday the couple delighted a small Scottish coastal town by popping in for a fish supper at the chippy they frequented as students at St Andrews 20 years ago.

The couple ordered a 7.95 takeaway haddock supper, wrapped in paper, which they ate on a bench on the pier. They went back for ice creams - William's in a cup, Kate's in a cone - and chatted to staff, with Kate saying it had been a 'trip down memory lane'.

It was a day full of nostalgia for the couple with events centered around the university where they met as freshers.

The Cambridges arrived in St Andrews on Tuesday night, the day before their engagements in the town, and enjoyed a private 'date night' dinner at Forgan's restaurant where they were seated in a 'secluded' corner table.

After staying locally, rather than at the Queen's Edinburgh residence of Holyroodhouse, the couple enjoyed a morning of land yacht racing on a St Andrews beach.

Later they met students and toured university grounds before making the short drive to the coastal village of Pittenweem to meet local fishermen and their families.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were presented with a gift to take away during the visit to the park today

The Duchess of Cambridge was delighted to speak to the youngsters from the Edinburgh nursery

Kate Middleton was animated as she discussed gardening on the visit to the park this morning

Kate Middleton and Prince William spoke to little Penelope Stewart (left). Right, Kate talks to a little girl in the park

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge also learned more about work to improve access to green spaces across the UK

At the end of these official engagements, the Cambridges continued on to Anstruther, just four minutes' drive away. After their fish and chips they were met by a royal helicopter, which landed in the children's park, and flown back to the Palace of Holyroodhouse to host a special drive-in screening of Disney's Cruella for NHS staff.

Before the screening, Kate delivered a short speech in which she paid tribute to NHS staff across Scotland and thanked them for their dedication, commitment and personal sacrifice.

She said: 'As Joint Patrons of NHS Charites Together, William and I are absolutely delighted that so many of you could join us here tonight. We wanted to thank you for the extraordinary dedication, commitment and personal sacrifice you have shown in supporting our communities through this pandemic.

Fancy a shot? A schoolgirl shows off her hula-hooping skills in font of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge who looked on

Green-fingered Kate, who enjoys gardening at home, got stuck in with the activity at Starbank Park in Edinburgh

The Duke of Cambridge went exploring in the park, which includes a small gardening area

The Duchess of Cambridge spoke to one little boy from Edzell Nursery during the visit today

Getting stuck in: William, 38, and Kate, 39, spoke to the children about gardening and getting out in the park

The Duchess of Cambridge looked polished in a green blazer as she joined Prince William in Starbank Park, Edinburgh, today

The Duchess of Cambridge crouched down to speak to a little girl from Edzell Nursery during the visit

The Duchess of Cambridge put on a pair of gardening gloves and got stuck in with the planting at the park

'It is a real privilege to work with NHS Charities Together. For the last 13 years it has worked tirelessly to improve services for patients and support NHS staff and volunteers, both practically and emotionally. Today, this work has never been more important.

'So, with an enormous thank you to Her Majesty The Queen for allowing us to host the first-ever drive-in film night here at Holyrood. And with a huge thank you to Disney and BAFTA, for putting on this evening, and to the fabulous actress Tipper for joining us here tonight, William and I invite you to grab your popcorn, cuddle up under your blankets and be transported to 1970s Britain for an evening of much-deserved fun, drama, glamour and escapism!'

Disney is giving Cruella de Vil the live-action treatment with its anticipated new film Cruella, starring Emma Stone as the sinister protagonist, Tipper Seifert-Cleveland as 'young Cruella' and Emma Thompson as Baroness von Hellman.

Local haunt: William, 38, and Kate, 39, popped into the award-winning Anstruther Fish Bar, in the coastal town of Anstruther, some 20 miles east of Fife, where they were 'regular customers' while students at St Andrews 20 years ago

The couple ordered a 7.95 takeaway haddock supper, wrapped in paper, which they ate on a bench on the pier. They returned for ice creams - William's in a cup, Kate's in a cone - before returning to Edinburgh by helicopter

Kate Middleton continued her Scottish-themed wardrobe, sporting a full-length tartan trench coat to host NHS Charities Together and NHS staff at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh with Prince William

The couple arrived to greet their guests in a Land Rover Defender that previously belonged to Prince Philip, who passed away aged 99 on April 9

Plenty to smile about! The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge today returned to the University of St Andrews where they met as students 20 years ago. The couple were in excellent spirits despite the rain

University sweethearts: Prince William and Kate Middleton on the day of their graduation ceremony in 2005
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With sunshine and temperatures set to sore up to 23 degrees this Bank Holiday weekend, it's no surprise Google searches are up for sunglasses, as we anticipate the gorgeous weather due in time for June half term.

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A British woman who's married to a Pakistani man and been a Muslim for nearly a decade has hit back at trolls who accused her of 'appropriating' her husband's culture on TikTok.

Amber Bain, 24, from Nelson, Lancashire, faced backlash for sharing videos of herself dressed in traditional Pakistani garments while dancing on the popular social media platform and has even had abuse in the street.

However, the Community Leadership student said she is simply embracing her husband's culture and is 'appreciating' it rather than 'appropriating' it.

Frustrated Amber decided to hit back with a defiant TikTok clip of her walking down her stairs in a black hoodie and leggings before suddenly transforming into a floral shalwar kameez, a traditional South Asian ensemble.

The clip, which included the caption 'stop repping a culture that's not yours', quickly went viral, racking up more than one million views and more than 85,000 reactions.

Amber Bain (pictured), 24, from Nelson, Lancashire, faced backlash for sharing videos of herself dressed in traditional Pakistani garments while dancing on the popular social media platform and has even had abuse in the street

Frustrated Amber decided to hit back with a defiant TikTok clip (pictured) of her walking down her stairs in a black hoodie and leggings before suddenly transforming into a floral shalwar kameez, a traditional South Asian ensemble

Amber said: 'I don't know why people have felt the need to be so negative. Maybe they're just uneducated.

'My community is really open and multicultural. Everybody embraces each other and we all come together. We're so open - people will knock on your door with food and welcome you into their homes for celebrations.

'Obviously, this might not be the case in other towns. It seems like people don't like to see you doing anything different.

'Most of the negative comments I was receiving were coming from white people. They were writing silly comments to me like "Why have you converted to that religion?"'

She added: 'I've had to delete quite a few comments, as people have just been using the video as an excuse to have arguments.

The clip, which included the caption 'stop repping a culture that's not yours', quickly went viral, racking up more than one million views and more than 85,000 reactions. Pictured, Amber

The Community Leadership student (pictured) said she is simply embracing her husband's culture and is 'appreciating' it rather than 'appropriating' it

'I did expect people to comment on my wallpaper - I'm still in the process of getting a new wallpaper for my stairs. But I didn't expect to get so much hate. The love outweighs the hate, but it's still not nice.

'I'm a strong person but some of the comments were enough to make somebody suicidal. It just goes to show that if you post something online, you should expect the worst - especially on TikTok.'

Amber, who is married to a Pakistani man with whom she has three children, has even received abuse in the street because of her choice of clothing.

Amber said: 'I've been walking out in town and passed pubs, and people are like "What are you wearing? You're a disgrace".

Amber (pictured in the clip), who is married to a Pakistani man with whom she has three children, has even received abuse in the street because of her choice of clothing

For Amber (pictured), who converted to Islam when she was 15 years old, wearing Pakistani clothing is like 'second nature'

'I just walk on when that happens, but I obviously get upset. Most of the time when that's happened, I've been out with my children.

'I just think some people don't like to see different cultures mixing. Some people think all that stuff is over but it's not. Hate crimes are still happening all the time.'

For Amber, who converted to Islam when she was 15 years old, wearing Pakistani clothing is like 'second nature'.

Amber said: 'Since I got married, it's been the norm for me. When I got married, my parents-in-law gifted me with Asian-wear clothes.

'I'd wear it, and I didn't see anything bad in that, but I'd have people saying to me "Why are you wearing that? You're not an Asian girl."

Amber (pictured) said: 'Since I got married, it's been the norm for me. When I got married, my parents-in-law gifted me with Asian-wear clothes.'

Amber (pictured) added: 'I'm not appropriating another culture, I'm appreciating it. But online that doesn't seem to count for anything'

She added: 'I'm not appropriating another culture, I'm appreciating it. But online that doesn't seem to count for anything. People are so quick to judge, I've had people commenting that I've been brainwashed.

'People were saying to me "Why are you forcing your children into a religion?" and really bad stuff like that.'

Besides the hate comments, Amber also received a lot of supportive remarks that praised her.

Amber said: 'I had some people saying "We love our cultured queen", because they've seen that I've been trying to respect the culture in my other videos too.

Reaction: Besides the hate comments, Amber also received a lot of supportive remarks that praised her

But other TikTok users (above) were less impressed by the video, with one person writing: 'Cultural appropriation love.'

'I even had a comment from one girl who said "I'm a Pakistani girl, and you're appreciating this culture just fine". They were complimenting my clothes which was really nice to read as well.

'I've been a little put off posting on TikTok though. I know for sure I have to get my stairs done now,' she jokingly added.

Some TikTok users took to the comments section to compliment Amber, with one writing: 'Leave her, she's just appreciating the culture. You look pretty anyways.'

Another commented: 'People forget culture is holistic. Within our own lives, we create a different culture for ourselves. Keep spreading love of cultural dress wear.'

A third said: 'Leave her alone, nothing wrong with it. What's wrong with everyone, she looks stunning and is happy. Don't judge, be kind.'

But other TikTok users were less impressed by the video, with one person writing: 'Cultural appropriation love.'
A British grandmother that shocked This Morning viewers when she shared graphic detail of her sexual antics with her Egyptian boyfriend 46 year her junior, has revealed gushing details about her love life again.

Mohamed Ahmed Ibriham swept Iris Jones, 81, from Weston-super-Mare, off her feet when they met on Facebook in 2019 and she soon flew to Egypt to be with him before marrying each other in November 2020.

The couple's relationship hit the spotlight last year when Iris went on ITV's This Morning to discuss the huge age gap and ended up revealing details of their sex life.

She's now taken to Facebook to reveal how her toyboy 'cuts her toe nails', slept on the hospital floor when she was recovering from a fall and carries her up the stairs.

A British grandmother that shocked This Morning viewers when she shared graphic detail of her sexual antics with her Egyptian boyfriend 46 year her junior, has revealed gushing details about her love life again. Iris is pictured with her husband Mohamed Ahmed Ibriham

Iris made hosts Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield blush after admitting that their first night of passion, which included an 'entire tube of KY jelly', left Iris 'saddle sore'.

But Iris, a former cleaner who claims pension and disability benefits, has now revealed what 'love' means to her, sharing that her partner cuts her toenails and carries her up the stairs.

Writing on Facebook, she gushed: 'LOVE is... when the one you love cuts your toe nails. LOVE is...when the one you love carries you up two flights of stairs when the lift has broken down.

'LOVE is... when the one you love spends hours looking for the phone you left in an Uber taxi. ( needle in a haystack) scenario! LOVE is...when [the] one you love sleeps on a hospital floor, and refuses to leave you while you recover from a fall.'

Mohamed Ahmed Ibriham swept Iris Jones, 81, from Weston-super-Mare, off her feet when they met on Facebook in 2019 and she soon flew to Egypt to be with him before marrying each other in November 2020. They are pictured in Egypt

'LOVE is putting up with my temper when I complained about the heat in Egypt! The heat was relentless and so was my complaining!! I love you for everything you are and continue to be, Mohamed.

'Your patience, your understanding, your resolve, your care and your attention to this sometimes, bad-tempered virago of a wife, who loves you to distraction. Thank you for being you and for loving me.'

Mohamed added a gushing comment to the post, writing: 'Sweetie, I am unable to respond to this great talk' to which Iris replied: 'I know you are a man of a few words, but in this instance, silence is not golden.

Iris previously revealed fears she may never see the love of her life again in person because he is struggling to secure a spousal visa for the UK due to red tape.

The couple's relationship hit the spotlight last year when Iris went on ITV's This Morning to discuss the huge age gap and ended up revealing details of their sex life. The couple are pictured

Iris' post comes after she confessed to spending her days 'crying all the time' because she misses her partner.

Speaking to Metro earlier this year, the distraught grandmother said she had no idea when her husband would be able to join her in Britain,

She explained: 'I'm separated from someone I love, it's so hard. I haven't got time on my side, his lawyers know that. I've had to go over there three times and come back without him.'

However, she believes she can't go back to Egypt because the environment is ill-suited to her health, adding it is 'too hot and dusty'.

Meanwhile, the pensioner also revealed she was 'skint' after previous trips to the country, having spent 50 per day on accommodation.

The couple's relationship hit the spotlight last year when Iris went on ITV's This Morning to discuss the huge age gap and ended up revealing details of their sex life.

Iris previously revealed fears she may never see the love of her life again in person because he is struggling to secure a spousal visa for the UK due to red tape

Iris explained: 'I haven't got age on my side. I could drop dead tomorrow. Every day is precious. It's bloody awful being apart.'

It comes months after she appeared on This Morning to discuss her marriage to her Egyptian toyboy.

At the time, she sent a call for Prime Minister Boris Johnson to let Mohamed come to the UK, where he would be an 'asset' to the economy.

The couple recounted how they tied the knot and celebrated during their segment, with Iris saying: 'It was third time lucky for us.'

The couple did not go through a traditional wedding, but signed paper written in Arabic to make things official.

'It was an exchange of documents. We had to sign several documents for the signature,' she said. 'After that, the document was handed to us, one for Mohamed and one for me, all in Arabic, I don't know what it says at all.

The couple then revealed they had not celebrated their union with a reception, but had instead gone to their local KFC, because they enjoyed the food and Iris had a Coca Cola. They are pictured in Egypt

'It might say that I'm completely under his thumb, but if that's the case, I'm not,' she added.

The couple then revealed they had not celebrated their union with a reception, but had instead gone to their local KFC, because they enjoyed the food and Iris had a Coca Cola.

Iris was a bit more tongue-tied about their bedroom antics after Holly asked: 'How was the wedding night, dare I ask.'

'Just the same as the first night, just it wasn't so difficult this time,' Iris said. Meanwhile, Mohamed shared how he felt about his union with Iris, saying: 'My feel is very good, we have in the past difficulties.'

It comes months after she appeared on This Morning to discuss her marriage to her Egyptian toyboy

Iris left This Morning presenters Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield in hysterics after she appeared on the programme in January 2020 to discuss her sex life

He added he was worried for Iris due to the coronavirus pandemic, but that it did not matter to him whether the couple stayed in Egypt or went to the UK.

The couple made hosts Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield blush earlier this year after admitting that their first night of passion, which included an 'entire tube of KY jelly', left Iris 'saddle sore'.

Iris first struck up a conversation with Cairo native Mohamed in summer 2019 on a Facebook group exploring atheism.

He initially declared love for her through social media and then said his feelings were confirmed when he saw Iris for the first time at Cairo airport that November.

Speaking to MailOnline earlier this year, he recalled: 'I was very nervous but the moment I laid eyes on her I knew that it was true love. I'm a very lucky man to have found a woman like this.'

Mohamed worked as welding inspector but gave up his job to spend time with Iris when she came to Cairo.

He lives in a three-room house with his parents plus two sisters and a brother who are all younger than him, but vehemently denied he was with Iris for her money or a passport to Britain.

Iris, a former cleaner, lives in a 220,000 bungalow and gets by on a 200-a-week pension and disability benefit.

Mohamed said: 'I don't care where we live or how rich or poor she is, I just want to be with Iris. At the end of the day, which country she wants to make her home is her choice; it can be either Britain or Egypt.

'People think I am with her for all the wrong reasons. I know Britain is a beautiful country and a lot of people want to go there but I'm not bothered. I'm prepared to live with her anywhere in the world.'

Mohamed revealed that during her visit to Egypt he took Iris home for dinner, where she spent time with his mother.

'My mother really liked Iris and they got on well even though there was a language problem. But my mother said to me that if I'm happy, then she's happy. That's all any mother wants; for her son to be with a woman he really loves.'
Florida State University reached an agreement with its former student Senate president after he was ousted for voicing his religious and political views with fellow student officials.

According to the Daily Caller News Foundation's report run through WND's web publication, Jack Denton reached an agreement with Florida State University (FSU) on Tuesday, almost a year after he was fired from his student government leadership post for criticizing leftist ideas such as those from Black Lives Matter.

According to the settlement agreement released with the Daily Caller, FSU agreed to pay Denton $10,000 in damages and $1,050 in back salary that he would have earned if he hadn't been dismissed.

"If you stand against cancel culture, you can win," Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) Senior Counsel Tyson Langhofer told the Daily Caller. "Cancel culture is scary and it's very active, but Jack shows that if you stand, you can win."

Denton, who has now graduated, said he considers himself fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with ADF in the pursuit of truth and justice. He stated that the settlement provided him with a great deal of comfort.

"I hope that my case will embolden other students to not be afraid to speak their mind and to share their religious convictions with others," Denton told the Daily Caller. "When we engage in free speech, we make society better."

Langhofer noted that when Judge Allen Winsor of the Northern District Court of Florida and the FSU Student Supreme Court both ruled in favor of Denton in October, ADF began negotiating a settlement with the institution.

Under the settlement, FSU must release a statement shortly expressing its commitment to upholding the rights of all students "no matter their religion." The university must also update its webpage identifying previous student government representatives to reflect Denton's reinstatement according to a court ruling.

"The First Amendment is universal and extends to people of all beliefs," Denton said. "This victory is a victory for all religious students."

According to ADF Legal Counsel Logan Spena, the settlement confirms that religious students cannot be penalized for their religious convictions.

"We are pleased that Florida State has finally affirmed its commitment to students' First Amendment rights on campus," said Spena. "All students should be able to peacefully share their personal convictions without fear of retaliation."

In the aftermath of George Floyd's murder in police custody in Minneapolis in June, Denton counseled friends in a private Catholic Student Union group text message against sending money to Black Lives Matter, the ACLU, or Reclaim the Block. He said that the organizations promote issues such as transgenderism and abortion that are contrary to Catholic teaching.

After the communications were released to other student senators, Denton, the FSU student Senate president, was voted out of his post. Denton was accused of "dehumanizing" people and being "explicitly racist" for privately telling acquaintances not to fund leftist groups.

"I don't feel safe with you as president," remarked Valentina Brown, an FSU student, during a Senate debate on Denton's dismissal on June 5. "You are condemning our identities, an integral part of ourselves and our nature."

In August, ADF filed a federal lawsuit against FSU officials, arguing that his dismissal constituted "unconstitutional retaliation" in violation of his First Amendment rights. Langhofer clarified that Denton only sued after seeking to handle the problem via internal school processes.

The counsel then told the Daily Caller: "[The lawsuit] could have been avoided if the university had the courage to stand up and say this was not right."
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Prince Charles and Camilla have visited Clapham Old Town today to celebrate non-essential shops re-opening following the easing of coronavirus restrictions.

The Prince of Wales, 72, and the Duchess of Cornwall, 73, toured the south London high street to mark the retail sector finally resuming business after Britain's lockdowns.

From stepping into a barbershop to sipping a pint at The Prince of Wales pub, Charles appeared in good spirits as he enjoyed a jam-packed morning - which also included a trip to the Michelin-starred restaurant, Trinity, run by chef Adam Byatt.

Charles and Camilla's trip comes nearly a week after Prince Harry accused his father of making him 'suffer' as a child in his new AppleTV+ five-part show The Me You Can't See.

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall during a visit to Clapham Old Town, south London, to celebrate the high street and retail sector as non-essential shops re-open and coronavirus restrictions ease

From stepping into a barbershop to sipping a pint at The Prince of Wales pub (pictured), Charles appeared in good spirits as he enjoyed a jam-packed morning

It was business as usual today for Prince Charles and Camilla; visiting a restaurant, pub, barbershop and even firefighters when touring the high street

The royal couple's Clapham visit also included a trip to the Michelin-starred restaurant, Trinity, run by chef Adam Byatt (pictured centre left, meeting the prince and duchess)

In candid interviews with Oprah Winfrey, the Duke of Sussex dropped another nuclear 'truth bomb' on the Royal Family accusing them of 'total silence' and 'neglect' when Meghan was suicidal, and insisting he would not be 'bullied into silence' when he alleged 'The Firm' 'trapped', smeared and dumped them.

The heir to the throne is said to be 'deeply hurt' by his youngest son's latest accusations - yet he showed no sign of strain while charming the locals alongside his wife today.

It was business as usual for Charles and Camilla this morning; visiting a restaurant, pub, barbershop and even firefighters when touring the high street.

Charles was all smiles as he chatted with the public - even bursting out laughing after pulling a pint at the Prince of Wales pub and trying to drink it under his mask.

All smiles! Standing side-by-side, the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall meet excited locals during a visit to Clapham Old Town, south London

The perfect beverage! The Duchess of Cornwall looks on as the Prince of Wales studies a pint he poured in the Prince of Wales public house this morning

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall (pictured in the pub) toured the south London high street to mark the retail sector finally resuming business after Britain's lockdowns

Prince Charles arriving at Trinity restaurant in Clapham, alongside the elegant Duchess of Cornwall, dressed in a sophisticated floral dress

Charles poured himself a glass of Sambrook's bitter at his namesake pub in the Old Town area of Clapham and pulled up his face mask to enjoy a sip.

The heir to the throne and Camilla admired the eclectic decorations inside the pub, pointing out a Toby jug of the Duke of Edinburgh, which the landlord did not realise he had among his collection.

Charles said he has always thought it would be fun to visit every Prince of Wales pub in the country and joked about a 'free drink'.

The royal couple were happy to go behind the bar, with the prince getting in the spirit of pint-pulling. He joked that he would not drink it all, and then went for a sip as Camilla watched.

The Prince of Wales stepped out of Trinity restaurant as several royal enthusiasts eagerly waited outside to get a photograph of the heir to the throne

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall speak with a group of firefighters during their trip to Clapham Old Town, after visiting non-essential shops

The prince put his best fashion foot forward in a navy pinstriped suit, while Camilla (pictured together centre) sported a floral dress, teamed with cream heels and a matching handbag

The Prince of Wales (centre) and the Duchess of Cornwall (second right) walked along the high street while royal fans eagerly waited to snap the perfect photograph of the royal pair

The Prince of Wales (second left) and the Duchess of Cornwall (second right) appeared in good spirits as they toured the south London high street

It was a sunny day for the couple's visit to the area, and the duchess, who wore a summery multi-snowdrop silk print dress by Fiona Clare, was heard saying it was lovely to be outside.

Pub landlord Dermot Connell said it was 'exciting' to have the Prince of Wales visit the pub. He added: 'It's good that he's getting out and about and showing people it's now safe again to be in the pubs.'

Talking about Charles going behind the bar and pulling a pint, Mr Connell said: 'They thought we might have to push him into doing it but he volunteered.'

On whether he enjoyed his tipple, Mr Connell said: 'He seemed to like it.'

Pub landlord Dermot Connell said Prince Charles (pictured with Camilla) 'volunteered' to get behind the bar and pull a pint when visiting the Prince of Wales public house

Charles poured himself a glass of Sambrook's bitter at his namesake pub in the Old Town area of Clapham and pulled up his face mask to enjoy a sip

Charles and Camilla's visit to the area, which also included stops at a Michelin-starred restaurant, a theatre, a florist, a barbershop, a pet shop and a fire station, was almost reminiscent of pre-Covid engagements.

The couple's visits appear to be steadily returning to normal - they also mingled with the public in Northern Ireland last week. However, signs of the ongoing pandemic were still evident, with everyone wearing masks indoors in Clapham.

Charles and Camilla's first stop was at the acclaimed Trinity restaurant, where they met staff, as well as representatives from the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts.

Outside the restaurant they chatted with with local suppliers - M Moen & Sons Butchers and Moxon's Fishmongers.

The butcher had a sizeable display of mutton on show, with Camilla calling it 'my husband's favourite', and Charles could be heard saying that mutton is 'so much better than lamb'.

Inside the restaurant, they met the Trinity front of house staff and chef team.

The Prince met with locals in Clapham as he visited the area to celebrate high street shops reopening following the easing of coronavirus restrictions

It was a sunny day for the couple's visit to the area, and the duchess, who wore a summery multi-snowdrop silk print dress by Fiona Clare, was heard saying it was lovely to be outside

Charles and Camilla's first stop was at the acclaimed Trinity restaurant, where they met staff, as well as representatives from the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts

The couple also met Omnibus Theatre staff before walking down the hill, passing a range of independent shops and businesses.

By the time they ended their walk at Clapham fire station, where they greeted firefighters and thanked them for their service, a crowd of onlookers had gathered, hoping to get a glimpse of the royal visitors.

The couple's visit was to celebrate the high street as figures from the British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) show that a fifth of independents did not reopen after the first lockdown.

Figures show that footfall is still down 25 per cent on the same pre-pandemic period in April 2019, despite lockdown restrictions being lifted.

Meanwhile, it's been a difficult few weeks for the royals. Lord Dyson's damning report into how Martin Bashir secured his 1995 BBC Panorama with Princess Diana found the shamed journalist hoodwinked her with an elaborate fiction that painted some of those closest to her as traitors.

The Duchess of Cornwall looked elegant in a billowing navy dress covered in a white floral pattern which she paired with a cream handbag

The couple's visit was to celebrate the high street as figures show that a fifth of independents did not reopen after the first lockdown

A beaming Prince of Wales appears in high spirits as he chats with locals and staff working along the Clapham high street in south London

He commissioned fake bank statements to secure his interview, but covered up his 'deceitful behaviour' in a 'shocking blot' on the BBC's near 100-year history.

The Duke of Cambridge said Bashir's deceit hastened his parents' divorce, 'hurt countless others' and fuelled the 'paranoia and isolation' of his mother's final years, while Prince Harry - who is based in California - also responded saying his mother 'lost her life because of this'.

On Friday Harry launched another attack on The Firm in his latest interview with Oprah, arguing he and wife Meghan felt 'trapped' with 'no option to leave'.

'I thought my family would help, but every single ask, request, warning, whatever it is, just got met with total silence, total neglect,' he told the chat show host.

'We spent four years trying to make it work. We did everything that we possibly could to stay there and carry on doing the role and doing the job. But Meghan was struggling.'

He added: 'That feeling of being trapped within the family, there was no option to leave. Eventually when I made that decision for my family, I was still told, 'You can't do this', And it's like, 'Well how bad does it have to get until I am allowed to do this?'. She [Meghan] was going to end her life. It shouldn't have to get to that.'

Royal biographer Phil Dampier said Harry's trip to unveil a statue of Princess Diana with his brother William on July 1 will now be in 'grave doubt', especially after the Duke of Sussex said London is a 'trigger' for his anxiety.

And royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams said there is now 'clearly a huge gulf between the Royal Family and the Sussexes', while Harry's biographer Angela Levin called his appearance 'phoney and embarrassing'.
A Starbucks employee who ranted about a complicated order consisting of 13 modifications has been fired after his tweet went viral  but he isn't the only one who has taken issue with customers' increasingly over-the-top demands that are often inspired by TikTok.

Other baristas at the chain claim they are being treated like 'coffee-making robots' as social media trends continue to drive elaborate drinks requests that are incredibly tedious, making them work much harder than they would for a normal drink.

'These orders are driving us insane because theyre so long, so specific and it requires you to do much more work than you should be doing for one single drink and theyre not being adequately translated into our labor hours,' a Starbucks shift supervisor in New York told The Guardian.

Josie Morales was sacked from Starbucks this month after he took to Twitter to vent his frustration over an incredibly complicated Venti Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino order, which a demanding customer named Edward had placed in Van Nuys, California, on May 1.

Sacked: Josie Morales, a barista from California, was fired from Starbucks for calling out a customer named Edward's complicated drink order that included 13 modifications

Drama: Morales's tweet venting about the complicated Venti Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino order (pictured) went viral earlier this month

'On today's episode of why I wanna quit my job,' Josie tweeted, sharing a photo of a plastic Starbucks cup with the order listed.

A traditional Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino is made with coffee, milk, ice, and caramel syrup, which are blended and topped with a layer of dark caramel sauce, whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and a crunchy caramel-sugar topping.

However, Edward requested a total of 13 add-ons and changes to the drink, including extra caramel drizzle, seven pumps of caramel sauce, extra ice, extra cinnamon dolce topping, and heavy cream  all of which makes it longer to make.

Morales's tweet went viral, as did the recipe, with customers across the country clamoring to try 'The Edward' for themselves. Morales ended up getting fired for violating the company's social media policy, but he doesn't have any regrets.

'I feel like it brought some light upon how crazy orders can be,' he told Inside Edition, which captured Morales' meeting with Edward himself.

Candid: Morales said he doesn't regret tweeting about the drink request because 'it brought some light upon how crazy orders can be'

Not a jerk: The now infamous Starbucks customer, whose name really is Edward, defended his order, saying he tips about 30 percent

Meet and greet: Despite everything that happened, the two men are on good terms and even shared a friendly hug when they met face to face

The now infamous Starbucks customer, whose name really is Edward, defended his order, saying: 'I dont consider myself a jerk, especially if you tip well. So, you know, a $5 tip, I feel like thats probably almost 30 percent.'

Despite everything that happened, the two men are on good terms and even shared a friendly hug when they met face to face.

Starbucks doesn't limit the number of modifications a customer can make to their drink orders, which can get burdensome and sometimes confusing for the baristas.

'With mobile order or delivery, we cant always clarify what they want and people will get very mad over sort of little stuff when youve made the drink almost perfectly, and its frustrating to feel like you cant say we cant really make it that way, so people treat us like coffee-making robots,' a Starbucks employee in Maryland told The Guardian.

Baristas who spoke to the publication explained that they are pressured to meet drive-thru time quotas while juggling mobile, delivery, and in-person orders. They claim the demand has increased their workloads, especially when customers are ordering complicated drink recipes they saw on TikTok.

Hard: Other baristas across the nation have griped about the increasingly complicated orders they receive, with one saying they are treated like 'coffee-making robots' (STOCK IMAGE)

Frustrating: Starbucks workers said the increase of complicated orders is due to popular TikTok videos that break down detailed recipes for custom drinks

Yikes: Morales's tweet inspired other Starbucks employees to share their own nightmare orders, including this shocking Green Tea Creme Frappuccino order with 29 changes

A lot to handle: Starbucks doesn't limit the number of changes a customer can make to their drink orders. One woman from California shared an image of a drink with 11 customizations

Over the top: Another barista shared an image of a customer's intricate changes to a Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew order

'Starbucks definitely took this turn to becoming just another fast-food drive-thru,' a Starbucks shift supervisor explained. 'They want us to just be these robots that move fast, were just little drones to them that just need to pump out as many lattes as we can in a half-hour.'

Morales's post prompted other Starbucks employees to share similarly complex and torturous drink orders, with some complaining that trendy 'TikTok drinks' are to blame.

What's more, they're saying these drinks aren't just a hassle for Starbucks employees to make, but that they also make lines move slower and contribute to longer wait times for other customers.

One Starbucks barista shared a snap of a Green Tea Creme Frappuccino with 29 additional changes, writing: 'This order comes in every other week.'

Another posted an image of a Caffe Misto, which had 30 extra demands  including 24 pumps of syrup  and commented: 'I raise you this.'

Trendy: Many are blaming the changes on trendy 'TikTok drinks,' pointing to videos of content creators ordering extremely complicated drinks and sharing the recipes with followers

Going viral: Maya, who goes by @starbucksrecipeswithm on TikTok, has shared several viral videos with various drink recipes, including one for a Skittles Frappuccino

A third wrote: 'I was behind a woman who had an order that ridiculous and insisted it be heated to 37 degrees celsius... "not 36, not 38I will KNOW the difference."'

Someone else showed off an order for a Cherry Mocha Frappucino in San Diego, California, that was so long it required two stickers to fit all the customizations.

While making a few modifications or specifications is not unusual  people might choose a different type of milk or extra pump of syrup  such a long list of changes means that drinks take much longer to make than usual, which baristas say can lengthen lines and wait times.

Many are blaming this on trendy 'TikTok drinks,' pointing to videos of content creators ordering extremely complicated drinks and sharing the recipes with followers.

'I'm going to get yelled at for this by some but I just think it's so selfish to order insane drinks like this at a Starbucks and it's become so prevalent especially due to TikTok,' tweeted journalist Yashar Ali. 'I don't care if you're paying for it, it's still selfish.'

Claim to fame: One TikToker name Anna, who goes by @annaxsitar, shares popular videos of herself ordering customized drinks and regularly asks her followers for their recommendations

Try this: Another barista, Kali Perry, who goes by @kalip3rry, has also posted videos with instructions for customized orders

Say what?User @who_is_jackie asked a drive-thru attendant to make her a drink with ten cake pops blended into it

'The line at my local SB is ridiculously long, more then usual. I asked the barista what's been going on. He said alot of people are ordering the tiktok drinks,' said another commenter.

'I'd make a register sign that says "TIKTOK DRINKS +$20,' someone else wrote.

'Starbucks should hire 1 extra employee who ONLY does tik tok drinks. You have to come in store to order it, watch the person make it for you so you can appreciate the work that goes into it, and a $5 tip is mandatory,' another suggested.

One TikToker name Anna, who goes by @annaxsitar, shares popular videos of herself ordering customized drinks.

Good point: Starbucks workers noted that these complicated drink orders make lines move slower and contribute to longer wait times for other customers

Sugar rush: One barista posted a snapshot of an order from a fussy customer who wanted, among other things, 34 pumps of syrup

Wow: This order for a Mango Dragonfruit lemonade including so many customizations that the sticker was longer than the Venti cup

In one with 6.1 million likes, she asked a Starbucks drive-thru employee to make her a drink that's a combination of his two favorite drinks  whatever they are, regardless if he thinks they will mix well together.

Other TikTokers have come up with similar challenges for baristas, like user @who_is_jackie, who asked a drive-thru attendant to make her a drink with ten cake pops blended into it.

Meanwhile, some of the customized drink videos are actually made by Starbucks baristas themselves.

Maya, who goes by @starbucksrecipeswithm on TikTok, has shared several viral videos with various drink recipes, including one for a Skittles Frappuccino that has been liked 5.9 million times.

She's also posted recipes for a Cotton Candy Frappuccino, a Sunrise Frappuccino, and more, all of which require customers to make numerous complicated customizations to their drinks.

Reading material: Another order for a Cherry Mocha Frappucino in San Diego, California, was so long it required two stickers

Not right: Social media users were shocked to hear how demanding some customers could be with their orders

Another barista, Kali Perry, who goes by @kalip3rry, has posted videos with her own instructions for customized orders.

Following Morales's viral tweet, social media users were shocked to hear how demanding some customers could be with their orders.

'The rare times I have gone to Starbucks I panicked and ALWAYS get a caramel frap even though Id like to try something new. Ive done this for years, I still havent even memorized wtf size is a venti and youre telling me ppl get this like this!? Disgusting,' wrote one.

A second commented: 'I don't even know what half of that stuff is, I worked there like 10 years ago when there wasn't as many options lol.'

'Starbucks should have 2 lines: one for people who want actual coffee, and one for whatever narcissistic b******t this is,' said one more.

Someone else asked: 'How df do people come up with these orders? How would they even know if you missed a 'pump' of whatever syrup want? And how would something like this even taste? at this point, is this even coffee anymore? it blows my mind that people make orders like this.'
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The two actors who are set to portray Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in an upcoming Lifetime movie about their dramatic exit from royal life have been spotted on set in Vancouver for the first time since their roles were announced earlier this month.

New York-based Broadway actor Jordan Dean and actress and blogger Sydney Morton were seen stepping into the Sussexes' shoes on Wednesday while filming several different scenes for the network's latest royal-themed flick, Harry & Meghan: Escaping the Palace.

One set of images shows the actors wearing outfits that look very similar to ensembles worn by Harry, 36, and Meghan, 39, during their September 2019 tour to Africa, which took place just four months before the couple publicly revealed that they were quitting the royal family and relocating to the US.

It was during their Africa trip that Meghan and Harry gave now-infamous interviews to their journalist friend Tom Bradby in which they first made clear their unhappiness over their royal roles.

Many have suggested that the interviews - which featured in an ITV documentary about the Sussexes - were an indication of things to come, and it may be that Lifetime has chosen to include the tour for that very reason.

By royal appointment! The actors who were chosen to play Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in a new Lifetime movie about their exit from the royal family have been pictured on set in Vancouver for the first time since filming began last week

Matchy matchy: Dean, who is based in New York, has natural red hair, just like Harry, and he was pictured with a closely-cropped beard - the same style that the Duke has been modeling for several years now (right)

Ready for their starring turn: Jordan Dean will play the role of Prince Harry, 36, alongside Sydney Morton's Meghan, 39, in the upcoming movie Harry & Meghan: Escaping the Palace, which is due to be released in the fall

Get wavy: Other images obtained exclusively by DailyMail.com show Morton with her dark locks styled in loose waves - a style that Meghan herself has modeled on a number of occasions. It is unclear what look she was recreating

Harry & Meghan: Escaping the Palace promises to offer viewers a fictionalized account of 'what really happened inside the palace that drove Harry and Meghan to leave everything behind in order to make a future for themselves and their son Archie,' and will 'detail Meghans growing isolation and sadness, their disappointment that "The Firm" was not defending them against the press's attacks and Harrys fear that history would repeat itself and he would not be able to protect his wife and son from the same forces that caused his mother's untimely death.'

The movie is the third instalment in a series of films about Meghan and Harry, and Dean and Morton are the third set of actors to take on the roles of the Duke and Duchess, having only been publicly unveiled as the stars of the latest movie days before filming began last week.

However it looks as though the duo have thrown themselves into the swing of things - and at the very least they have managed to copy the couple's clothing choices almost to a T.

On-set pictures obtained exclusively by DailyMail.com show Dean and Morton modeling a variety of ensembles, including snaps that feature the pair strolling towards a trailer while sporting coordinating outfits that appear to have been chosen to replicate looks from Harry and Meghan's Africa tour wardrobe.

Morton's outfit is comprised of a khaki-colored trench-style dress and black heels, and it is incredibly reminiscent of the ensemble modeled by Meghan when she visited ActionAid in Johannesburg. The actress covered up her costume with a puffy purple coat, and was seen carrying a face shield and a water bottle as she and her co-star walked side-by-side towards their trailer.

While filming for one scene, Dean modeled his own version of Harry's trademark grey suit, which he has sported on multiple occasions - including during his and Meghan's bombshell interview with Oprah Winfrey

Travel? One set of photos shows Dean and Morton wearing outfits that look incredibly similar to those donned by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex during their September 2019 tour of Africa

Starting point? It was during their Africa trip that Meghan and Harry gave now-infamous interviews to journalist pal Tom Bradby in which they first made clear their resentment and unhappiness over their royal roles

Taking a break? The actors were seen strolling towards a trailer, with Morton covering her costume up with a warm pink puffer coat, while Dean chose to leave his own outfit on full display

Accessories: The actress also toted a brown leather handbag, which had a white cord hanging out of it

Chit chat: The actors have been filming in Vancouver together for about a week, but they already seem relaxed in one another's company

Inspiration? Morton's outfit was comprised of a khaki trench-style dress and black heels, and is reminiscent of the ensemble worn by Meghan when she visited ActionAid in Johannesburg (left), while Dean's outfit also seemed to be inspired by the tour

Fashion favorite: Trench dresses became a staple part of Meghan's wardrobe during her time as a royal. She was seen wearing two different designs during the Africa tour (left and center), and also sported a version in Australia in 2018 (right)

The actress and blogger also carried a brown leather tote bag that had a white cord hanging out of it - although this may well have been a personal item rather than a piece of her on-set ensemble.

Meanwhile Dean looked safari-ready in his khaki green trousers and dark shirt - and he sported the same red locks and facial hair that Harry modeled throughout the couple's tour.

Dean also stepped into his own version of Prince Harry's trademark grey suit, modeling a design that is almost identical to the one worn by the Duke during the Sussexes' bombshell interview with Oprah Winfrey, which aired in March.

The actor carried a plastic face shield in his hand as he stood by himself on-set, seemingly waiting for filming to begin.

He looked slightly stressed at certain points during the filming process, and was seen running his hands through his hair and attempting to tuck his shirt in at the back of his trousers with a concerned look on his face.

The gesture revealed another key piece of his costume however: a gold wedding band. Morton was also seen sporting a large diamond and matching wedding ring on her left hand while shooting another scene.

Stepping out into the spotlight: Dean and Morton leaving a property in character as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle

Support: At one point, the actors were flanked by a burly-looking security guard, however it is unclear whether he was a member of the cast, or whether he had been hired to look after the stars themselves

Chic: For one scene, Dean donned a khaki jacket and a blue button-up shirt, while Morton looked effortlessly cool in a pale blue coat, shirt, and jeans

What's up? Dean looked slightly stressed as he paced about the set in his Harry-esque suit, rubbing his face in a concerned gesture that also revealed his gold wedding band

Hint? The actor had a microphone attached to his lapel, which looked very similar to the tech used during Harry and Meghan's primetime sit-down with Oprah - and may well be a hint that the network will feature the interview in the movie

Co-star? Dean was also seen standing alongside another woman who looked elegant in a teal suit. It is not known whether she is a member of the cast, or whether she is part of the crew

Dean's costume also featured a clip-on microphone, which was attached to the left lapel of his suit jacket, and looked near identical to the tech that was used during Harry and Meghan's bombshell interview with Oprah Winfrey - suggesting that the upcoming movie may well feature its own take on the primetime sit-down.

The interview has certainly played a pivotal role in the Sussexes' relationship with the rest of the royal family - and saw the couple making several damaging allegations about 'The Firm', including claims that an unnamed member of the monarchy made racist remarks about the color of their son Archie's skin tone.

Lifetime has not yet indicated the time frame of the upcoming Escaping the Palace movie, only teasing that the flick will give viewers a dramatized take on what led to Megxit, however if producers have decided to include more current events, the Oprah interview would likely be a key moment that they'd be keen to feature.

During another scene, Dean and Morton were seen wearing casual looks, with the former sporting a khaki jacket and a blue button-up shirt, while his co-star and on-screen wife modeled a pale blue coat with a wide collar, a simple shirt, and a pair of jeans.

The actress also had her dark hair styled in sleek waves - a style that Meghan has been known to favor, particularly since she stepped down from her royal role, allowing her to embrace a more casual aesthetic.

For this particular shot, the on-screen Harry and Meghan were flanked by a burly-looking security guard, who was seen wearing a black suit, earpiece and sunglasses, however it is not known whether he is a member of the cast, or whether he has been hired to keep a watchful eye over the actors on-set.

The new on-set images were taken one week to the day after Lifetime publicly announced that Morton and Dean had been cast in the roles of Meghan and Harry, while sharing the first image of the duo stepping into their royal roles.

Although their physical similarities with Harry and Meghan are not entirely spot-on, the actors certainly dressed the part for the photo, which showed them posing in near-identical ensembles to those worn by the Sussexes for their final official engagement as senior members of the royal family in March 2020.

Dean was seen relaxing on set as Prince Harry with a woman who looked chic in a blue suit, whose name is unknown

Taking time out: The actor, who channeled the prince in his grey tailored look, appeared laid back on the set of the movie

Downtime: It is not known who the elegant woman in blue is, but it is possible she is a co-star in the Lifetime movie

Getting ready to shoot: Dean was filmed on location in Vancouver, where Megha Markle lived before marrying Prince Harry

Bringing a royal romance to life: The actor, pictured on set, is tasked with bringing the troubled prince to screen

Behind-the-scenes: The photos give a glimpse of what goes into making the Lifetime movie about the royal couple

Picture of confidence: Star Jordan Dean smiled slightly as he walked across the filming location in Vancouver, Canada

Brief exchange: It appeared Dean spent time talking to the woman in the blue suit, whose name is not known

Safety first: The actor was seen picking up a plastic visor on the set of the Lifetime movie

In production: The actor on the set of the movie, which appeared to be covering Prince Harry's bombshell Oprah interview

Crucial moment: If it is the Oprah interview, it reveals the movie will cover the time period right up to the last few months

Bombshell: Jordan Dean as Prince Harry on the set of Harry and Meghan: Escaping The Palace, being filmed in Vancouver

Prepping lines: Dean, who plays the Duke of Sussex, had a few minutes spare in between filming scenes

Efficient: The actor was spotted in a number of different set-ups, suggesting production is progressing rapidly

Getting into character: The actors took time out to relax on the set of the movie, with Dean wearing Harry's signature suit

Dean - who has a number of small on-screen roles to his name, including a turn in Netflix series The Punisher - is seen wearing a blue suit, white shirt, and mint green tie, while Morton - who is best known for her part in Netflix show Shes Gotta Have It - is pictured in a bright green caped dress that appears to be designed after the Emilia Wickstead number worn by Meghan on last year's Commonwealth Day.

Harry actor Dean is also sporting bright red hair and a beard, while Morton has her locks pulled back in a low updo, a style often sported by Meghan during her brief time as a royal.

Shortly after the announcement was shared, Morton marked the occasion on her Instagram account, where she revealed that she and Dean are actually old friends.

'The cats out of the bag!' she wrote. 'Very grateful to be working with these wonderful people! AND I get to be on this wild ride with an old friend?? Literal dreams! Thank you everyone for all your kind words! Lets goooooooo.'

Both stars have a handful of small on-screen roles to their names, and they have each made appearances in Netflix series in the past; Dean featured in 2019 show The Punisher, while Morton snagged parts in 2020 mini-series Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker, and She's Gotta Have It, which ran from 2017 to 2019.

On her website, Morton describes herself as an actress and blogger, which is eerily reminiscent of Meghan's life before she met Harry and joined the royal family. When the couple began dating, the Los Angeles native was starring in hit show Suits, and ran a lifestyle blog, The Tig.

Dean meanwhile has made several appearances on Broadway in hit shows like Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Mamma Mia!, and Cymbeline.

The on-screen couple are the third pair to portray Harry and Meghan for Lifetime - which has already released two other movies about the Sussexes in the last few years.

Harry & Meghan: Escaping the Palace follows 2018's Harry & Meghan: A Royal Romance, which covered the early days of their relationship, and 2019's Harry & Meghan: Becoming Royal, which focused on the royal wedding.

Parisa Fitz-Henley and Murray Fraser played Meghan and Harry, respectively, in the first biopic, which explored how the couples relationship blossomed from their first date in 2016 to their engagement in November 2017.

It aired in May 2018, just days before the couple's royal wedding.

First look: The new on-set snaps were taken exactly one week after the first photo of Dean and Morton as Harry and Meghan was shared by Lifetime, showing them wearing outfits that look just like those sported by the Sussexes last March

The Duchess of Sussex: Actress and blogger Morton is best known for her roles in Netflix shows Shes Gotta Have It

The Duke of Sussex: New York-based Broadway actor Dean has made several appearances on Broadway in hit shows like Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Mamma Mia!, and Cymbeline

The second movie offered a playful, fictional account of the events immediately leading up to Harry and Meghan's May 2018 wedding and their first few months as husband and wife. It aired in May 2019.

Actress Tiffany Smith played the Duchess of Sussex, while British star Charlie Field took on the role of the Duke of Sussex in the film.

Harry & Meghan: Escaping the Palace will offer a fictionalized account of 'what really happened inside the palace that drove Harry and Meghan to leave everything behind in order to make a future for themselves and their son Archie,' according to Deadline.

Like Netflix's The Crown - but on a much tighter budget - the movie will feature actors playing senior members of the royal family including Prince William and Kate Middleton and Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, all of whom will be portrayed by the same actors who appeared in the earlier installments.

Producers will no doubt draw heavily on the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's explosive Oprah Winfrey interview, which aired in March, although it remains to be seen if it will go near controversial topics such as the alleged racist remark about Archie.

Speaking to Vanity Fair about the second film, screenwriter Scarlett Lacey - who has returned for the third installment - explained that the plot features a mix of truths and fiction.

According to Deadline, the new film will 'detail Meghans growing isolation and sadness, their disappointment that "The Firm" was not defending them against the press's attacks and Harrys fear that history would repeat itself and he would not be able to protect his wife and son from the same forces that caused his mother's untimely death.'

It will also look at 'family feuds' between Kate and Meghan, Charles and Harry and Harry and William, it is reported.

The movie will be directed by Menhaj Huda and executive produced by Merideth Finn and Michele Weiss.

Speaking on the release of the second film, Lacey suggested she had gained access to some of Meghan's and the royals' inner circles, although she did not name any names.

Debut: Dean and Morton are the third pair to play Harry and Meghan; Parisa Fitz-Henley and Murray Fraser debuted the roles for Lifetime in 2018's Harry & Meghan: A Royal Romance, which covered the early days of the couple's relationship

Next up: In 2019's Harry & Meghan: Becoming Royal, the main roles were played by Tiffany Smith and Charlie Field

Back again: Several actors are returning for the third movie, including Deborah Ramsay as the Duchess of Cornwall (left) and Steve Coulter as Prince Charles (center left)

Trouble: According to Lifetime, the upcoming movie will offer a fictionalized retelling of the events leading up to Megxit (Harry and Meghan are seen during their last royal engagement)

She told Vanity Fair: 'Some of the people I talk to are close to the royals. Others are Hollywood friends of Meghan, and others are journalists and experts in the royal field.'

However she acknowledged that the movies - which portray Harry and Meghan in a highly favorable light - are definitely a mixture of fact and fiction.

Airing on Lifetime five days before the pair married in real life, the first movie charted the whirlwind romance of Meghan and Harry by mutual friend Violet von Westenholz, to their time in Botswana where they fell in love.

It culminated in Prince Harry going down on one knee in his Kensington Palace apartment to ask Meghan to marry him.

It also featured other members of the royal family, including Kate Middleton, who will no doubt play an even bigger part in the third film.

The second film touched on the lead up to the wedding, and touched on Meghan's relationship with her father.

Lacey said at the time: 'This film deals with the drama of planning a wedding: the moment you'd much rather elope, the moment your family might mess it all up - and they nearly do.'

Star Tiffany said in the same interview: 'We got to do some stuff with Kate, which I really liked.

'I think one of the biggest things, obviously, about Meghan is that she's such a supporter of other women and women's empowerment. That was something I think was important for all of us to focus on, myself included.'
Black Americans are more likely to distrust the medical community compared to white Americans, a new survey suggests.

Researchers found black participants were half as likely to say they'd get a COVID vaccine compared to white participants.

What's more, black participants were 1.5 times more likely to report that they didn't trust the U.S. medical community.

The team says this is due to historical traumas such as the Tuskegee Syphilis Study and recent experiences of racism in the U.S. healthcare system.

While the U.S. seen higher rates of vaccination among communities of color in recent weeks, researchers say more work is needed to protect black Americans and other minorities in the U.S. against COVID-19

Black survey respondents were about half as likely to say they'd get a COVID vaccine compared to white respondents and other minorities also had lower rates of vaccine confidence, according to a new survey

Meanwhile white Americans were 1.5 times more likely to trust the medical community. Pictured: a high schooler gets vaccinated in San Pedro, California, May 24

Survey results - released Thursday - from researchers at the Wayne State University School of Medicine demonstrate how historical and contemporary experiences may impact black Americans' willingness to trust the medical community - or get vaccinated against COVID.

The survey was conducted in Michigan, where black residents make up 14 percent of the population but 23 percent of COVID deaths.

The group of 1,800 participants included 52 percent white people, 21 percent black, and smaller numbers of multiracial, Middle East/North Africa (MENA), Hispanic, and Asian participants. About one-fifth identified as essential workers.

When asked if they would get a COVID vaccine, only 28 percent of black survey respondents said 'definitely or probably yes' - compared to 57 percent of white respondents.

That means black respondents were nearly twice as likely to refuse a vaccine.

Vaccine confidence was similarly lower for other minority groups - 38 percent of MENA participants and 42 percent of Hispanic participants said they would get vaccinated.

Asians had the highest rate of vaccine confidence, at 64 percent.

When participants were asked if they would participate in a vaccine trial, confidence rates were even lower. Overall, only 25 percent of respondents said they would participate.

Rates in this category were lower for minorities, too: 30 percent of white respondents said they'd take part in a vaccine trial, compared to only 12 percent of black respondents and 18 percent of MENA respondents.

The researchers did statistical analysis showing that medical mistrust was a significant factor in why black participants refused a vaccine.

Using additional survey questions, they assigned participants in each demographic group a medical mistrust score. Black participants had the highest score, at 2.35 - reflecting the highest level of mistrust.

White participants had a mistrust score of 1.52, about 1.5 times lower than the score for black participants. Hispanic, Asian, and MENA participants also had higher mistrust scores: at 2.22, 2.1, and 1.77, respectively.

Unwillingness to get a vaccine, for many black Americans, may be tied to mistrust in the medical community

When discussing black distrust in the medical community, the Tuskegee Syphilis Study often comes to mind.

In this study, the U.S. Public Health Service collected data on several hundred black men infected with syphilis and failed to offer the patients treatment, even when that treatment was widely available.

Though this experiment took place in the 1930s and 1940s, black Americans remember and cite it as an example of their mistreatment by the medical establishment.

Other historical examples include the proliferation of Henrietta Lacks' cells without her or her family's consent and racist stereotypes perpetuated by medical schools.

But black Americans have experienced discrimination in the healthcare system in recent years, too. One critical example: black women are over three times more likely to die in childbirth compared to white women.

A 2020 survey from the Kaiser Family Foundation found that, out of about 800 black people who responded, 45 percent reported at least one experience of being disrespected or disbelieved by a healthcare professional. 36 percent said they believed they would get better medical care if they weren't black.

The COVID pandemic itself provides many examples. Black Americans have died from COVID at double the rate of white Americans.

The virus decimated many black communities, especially those in rural areas without hospitals.

Community partnerships can promote vaccination for those who may be hesitant. Pictured: a high school freshman is vaccinated at a school clinic

The Michigan study was conducted from June to December 2020, before the actual COVID vaccine rollout started. Since then, there have been other reports of higher vaccine confidence levels for minorities.

For example, a recent survey from the Kaiser Family Foundation found that only 13 percent of black Americans said they would 'definitely not' get a COVID vaccine. This was equivalent to the rate for white Americans - also 13 percent.

CDC data, however, show that black Americans have indeed been vaccinated at lower rates.

About nine percent of first doses administered in the U.S. have gone to black people - disproportionately low, as black people make up 12 percent of the national population.

Some public health experts suggest that these lower rates are not due to vaccine hesitancy in the black community, but are instead due to access barriers - such as difficulty in securing an appointment, taking off work for an appointment, or transportation to that appointment.

In recent weeks, vaccination rates have gone up for black Americans and other people of color.

At a press briefing on May 18, White House COVID advisor Dr Marcella Nunez-Smith announced that half of first doses administered in the last two weeks had gone to people of color. That trend has continued into this week.

Still, the Michigan survey shows that more work is needed to combat deep-seated mistrust in the medical community which may endanger this and future public health campaigns.

In their paper, the researchers say that partnerships between healthcare and other sectors need to build trust and promote vaccination.

'We further recommend that all efforts acknowledge and address, in their development and/or implementation, the historical and contemporary experiences of racism in the health care domain and beyond among black individuals in the U.S,' they wrote.
Visits to the federal government's vaccine website spiked after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) eased mask guidelines for Americans who got their COVID-19 shot.

Two weeks ago, CDC director Dr Rochelle Walensky said those who are fully vaccinated against the virus could remove face coverings outdoors and in most indoor settings.

Data obtained exclusively by CNN reveal that traffic to vaccines.gov - a site where people can find vaccination sites near their ZIP code - increased by more than 20 percent that week compared to the previous week.

Experts say the new recommendations gave an incentive for vaccine-hesitant people to get their shot so they could also take off their masks in public after more than a year.

On May 13, the CDC and President Joe Biden announced that Americans fully vaccinated against COVID-19 could take off their masks outdoors and in most indoor settings

Vaccine.gov saw the second-highest number of visitors that day and traffic ncreased by 22% that week compared to the week before the new guidance was announced

'This shows incentives matter,' Dr Jonathan Reiner, a professor of medicine and surgery at George Washington University School of Medicine, told CNN.

'People needed a carrot, and the carrot was the ability to drop the mask in most settings.'

On most days, visits to the website typically increased throughout the morning (ET) and then declined by around noon.

However, on Thursday, May 13, that changed when Walensky announced the updated guidance during an afternoon press briefing.

'Anyone who is fully vaccinated can participate in indoor and outdoor activities, large or small, without wearing a mask or physical distancing,' she said.

'If you are fully vaccinated, you can start doing the things you had stopped doing because of the pandemic. We have all longed for this moment when we can get back to some sense of normalcy.'

Experts say the recommendations gave an incentive for vaccine-hesitant people to get their coronavirus shot. Pictured: People without masks walk in New York's Times Square, May 19

Then, around 4pm, President Joe Biden held a press conference and wrote a tweet mentioning the new rules.

'The rule is now simple: get vaccinated or wear a mask until you do. The choice is yours,' he tweeted.

After Biden's tweet, vaccines.gov saw 40,000 visitors, which - according to CNN - is the second-highest figure ever since the website's launch on April 30.

'It's amazing - really amazing,' John Brownstein, and infectious disease epidemiologist and co-founder of VaccineFinder, which powers vaccines.gov, told CNN.

'I didn't think we would see such a well-defined spike in interest.'

Although May 13 was the busiest day, traffic to the site overall increase with 1,972,434 visitors that week, a 22 percent jump from the 1,604,686 visits the week before the new guidance was announced.

The new recommendations were met with joy by some and concern by others, who feared the rules would lead to a spread of COVID-19 as unvaccinated people pretended they had gotten shots and took off their masks.

However, since May 13, the seven-day rolling average of new cases has fallen by 33 percent from 35,255 to 23,510, according to a DailyMail.com analysis of Johns Hopkins University data.

What's more, the seven-day rolling average for deaths has fallen by almost seven percent from 631 to 588, the analysis found.

Brownstein told CNN that it's clear to him the announcements from Walensky and Biden led to increased interest in vaccination.

'A spike in usage on vaccines.gov right at that moment tells us that relaxing certain restrictions informed some people's decision to get the vaccine,' he said.
CVS Health is trying to incentivize more Americans to get COVID-19 vaccines by offering tickets, cash and vacations to those who get jabbed in their stores.

The pharmacy announced their #OneStepCloser campaign on Thursday, and anyone who has gotten their shots at a CVS location, or will before July 1, is eligible to enter.

Winners can receive 1,000 potential prizes including tickets to the Super bowl, trips to Miami and the Bahamas, stays in Wyndham hotels, a seven-day cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line and $5,000 in cash prizes.

The move comes as demand for the vaccine has stagnated in recent weeks, falling 50 percent since the start of May.

States such as Ohio, Maryland, New York and Oregon have announced similar sweepstakes giveaways for state residents who get vaccinated.

Even private companies have offered incentives to those who get vaccinated, like Krispy Kreme, which is offering a free donut everyday to anyone who has received the vaccine through the end of the year.

CVS is giving away prizes like Super Bowl tickets, cash, cruises and other vacations to winners of their vaccine sweepstakes. Anyone vaccinated at a CVS location between the start of the vaccine rollout and July 1 is eligible to join

After peaking in late April, the United States' vaccine rollout has significantly slowed down. Many of the remaining unvaccinated population either does not want, or feels like they do not need the vaccine

Enrollment for the CVS giveaway begins on June 1 and anyone who has proof that they received a vaccine at a CVS location is eligible.

'Getting as much of the population fully vaccinated will bring us one step closer to all the things we've missed during the past 14 months, and keep our country moving in the right direction,' Dr Kyu Rhee, senior vice president of CVS Health. said in a statement.

CVS also announced that more than 17 million COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered by the company.

Sweepstakes for those who become vaccinated have been seen as a success in their usage so far.

A lottery in Ohio that plans to give away $1 million to a vaccinated resident every week for the next five weeks.

It sparked a 55 percent increase in vaccination rate among the state's young population with the first winners announced on Wednesday.

Dr Lynn Kamerlin, a professor at Uppsala University in Sweden and public health expert, told DailyMail.com on Wednesday that these types of programs can help get unvaccinated people with small hesitations to do so vaccinated, but not with those staunchly against vaccinations.

After peaking in late April, the amount of Americans to get vaccinated every week has declined over the past month, as the remaining unvaccinated Americans seem hesitant to want it.

Efforts like the CVS giveaway, vaccine lottery programs and Krispy Kreme's free donuts can help get those on the fence about getting vaccinated to get jabbed, according to some public health experts

Data from the Kaiser Family Foundation reports that 19 percent of Americans will either not get the vaccine under any circumstances, or only get it if it becomes compulsory.

There is no plan for the vaccine to become required in America.

More than 60 percent of American adults, and about 50 percent of the countries total population, have received at least one shot of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Dr Anthony Fauci, the nation's top infectious disease expert, said last week that the country can prevent all future surges of COVID-19 cases if at least 70 percent of adults get vaccinated.

Fauci and President Joe Biden both believe the 70 percent target is attainable by July 4 weekend.

Initiatives like the one by CVS should help push America towards that goal and get the remaining population vaccinated.

CVS, and other vaccine distributors, also get paid by the government for each vaccine they administer, meaning the initiative could also earn them a nice payout.
BOOK OF THE WEEK

BRING BACK OUR GIRLS

by Joe Parkinson and Drew Hinshaw (Swift 18.99, 400pp)

Dont worry! We are soldiers! yelled the heavily armed men who arrived at Chibok Government Secondary School for girls at five minutes to midnight, April 14, 2014.

Gathering outside their dormitory, the girls took one look at the mens tattered uniforms and flip flops and knew these were not soldiers. They were members of the Islamist Boko Haram terrorist group: Boko meaning Western education and Haram meaning forbidden.

The terrorist unit which rolled into Chibok  a Christian town in Nigerias predominantly Muslim North  was a looting party, and one so disorganised they had forgotten to pack enough water to drink on a day of scorching sun. They studied the 276 girls, mostly aged 16-18, standing before them.

Joe Parkinson and Drew Hinshaw have penned a book investigating the kidnapping of 276 girls from Chibok Government Secondary School for girls in 2014. Pictured: Islamist group Boko Haram fighter at an undisclosed location standing in front of the girls

Although Nigeria is one of the most literate societies in the developing world, this was a region where just 4 per cent of girls completed high school. So these girls had been some of the lucky ones studying for exams that were among the most challenging in West Africa, requiring them to be fluent in two languages (Hausa and English) in addition to their mother tongue (Kibaku).

Having stolen the schools food, petrol and brick-making machine, the trigger-happy looting party torched the school and began arguing about what to do with the trembling girls. Put them in different places and burn them! said one. Let them lead us to their parents homes! parried another. No, said the most persuasive insurgent. Lets take them. The kidnapping was an afterthought.

The complicated story of what happened next is told with factual rigour, crisp political insight and deep compassion by Pulitzer-nominated American Wall Street Journal reporters Joe Parkinson and Drew Hinshaw.

Their brilliant book interweaves raw, traumatic accounts of what happened to some of those individual hostages with the complex story of how the many, high-profile, high-tech international rescue efforts failed to recover them.

Writing in pacy thrillerese, the authors begin their story with a prologue in which Michelle Obama  then First Lady  hears the news (via a pop industry Twitterstorm) and ponders the wisdom of tweeting about it. Her Chief of Staff, Tina Tchen, was a Twitter sceptic. A lawyer by training, Tchen was smart enough to worry that the tweeter lost control once the message went live. Neither woman was an expert on Nigerian politics. They wanted to help and worried tweeting might make the situation worse for both the hostages and the nation.

Her urge to align herself with the innocent victims of a brutal kidnapping  aspirational young black women like her own daughters  is understandable. As is her caution. She knew that giving Boko Haram her public attention might increase their power. Wisely cool-headed, the First Lady had never made a major statement on foreign affairs before.

Her media team fretted about picking the right placard and marker pen for her to tweet #BringBackOurGirls. But she had recently met Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani advocate for womens education who was shot and nearly killed on her way home from a school exam in 2012. Malalas commitment to outspoken resistance made Michelle Obama feel the cause was a moral issue, beyond the remit of foreign policy.

Boko Harams leader Abubakar Shekau, who began studying Islam in 1980, was the child of an imam and a peanut seller. Pictured: Screen grab released by Boko Haram

So she went ahead and tweeted. Her intentions were so good and her act so carefully weighed. But Parkinson and Hinshaw believe the social media spotlight made things worse for the kidnapped girls. They argue that the international attention triggered by the popular #BringBackOurGirls movement gave Boko Harams leader, Abubakar Shekau, the same spotlight that 9/11 gave Osama Bin Laden. And they say that the focus on those 276 girls overshone the murder, enslavement and enforced enlistment of thousands of less apparently innocent victims of the Nigerian terrorists.

Many of us in the West have only a sketchy idea of who Shekau is. Indeed, even the global military elite have scant purchase on him. But Parkinson and Hinshaw give us a decent sketch of the man: the child of an imam and a peanut seller. Seeing their son was intellectually brilliant but troubled, his parents sent him from the thatched roofed cottage he called home to study Islam in 1980, when he was just seven.

He quickly memorised the entire Quran, learning to speak Arabic, Hausa and English. But his quarrelsome nature worsened. By his teenage years he was committing to fundamentalists who preached that the world was flat and evaporation was a Western lie because only Allah could make rain.

By the time the Chibok girls met him, Shekau was capable of appearing reasonable, while expecting them to conform to his insane preaching. In 2015, Shekau pledged allegiance to Islamic State.

Girls who've escaped the kidnappers, claim they were kept in camps in remote areas. Pictured: A group of girls abducted by Boko Haram

Parkinson and Hinshaw offer a horrifying account of what it was like to live as a Boko Haram hostage through extensive interviews with the Chibok girls whove escaped. The girls were kept in camps, in remote areas and beneath trees which made them almost impossible to spot by the search planes and drones.

They describe the hunger pangs of starvation and the sensation of a rifle smacking into the flesh of their backs when they refused to convert to Islam and marry a terrorist. They explain how they put their faith in journals and prayers breathed into cups of water they would sprinkle over the weakest among them as a blessing.

Although most of the hostages were Christians, some were Muslim and those girls had an equally traumatic time. We hear the heartbreaking tale of two sweet Muslim sisters who eventually agreed to marry their captors and ended up living in the deserted homes of Nigerians whod been killed or forced to flee by Boko Haram. Trapped in their homes all day, they waited in fear for their husbands to return and rape them.

Meantime, the international community was bickering about the best way to deploy billions of dollars of military technology. Drones scanned the terrain in vain. South African mercenaries blazed in, along with Swiss diplomats, local bloggers and CIA operatives.

A British spy plane sent in to search the region broke down and had to return to its base in Senegal. The Nigerian government shifted from the affable but ineffective hands of President Goodluck Jonathan to his replacement, Muhammadu Buhari, a hardline General, and still nothing happened. Everybody thinks, Oh youre the U.S., you can just fly some troopers in there and go in and rescue them, one American operative told Parkinson and Hinshaw. Its not that simple.

Of the girls taken, 61 escaped. A small group of negotiators eventually secured the release of 103 girls. We dont know what has happened to the rest. Some will have been killed in strikes on Boko Haram bases. Some are still held as hostages or have been killed by their captors. Others will be the wives of Boko Haram fighters and the mothers of their children.

Today, analysts say a failure to address the root causes of the insurgency explains why little progress has been made. The poverty and lack of education in Nigerias North East makes it easy for Boko Haram to recruit believers. The Nigerian military is ill-equipped and many claim corruption means money intended to fight terrorism has ended up in the pockets of officials.

This month, Buhari said instability caused by the pandemic has allowed the insurgents to claim even more hearts and minds. If the missing girls are still alive, it looks increasingly unlikely they will be home any time soon.
The number of cars built in the UK increased last month, but production is still down on pre-pandemic levels, new figures released by a trade body show today.

Some 68,306 cars were manufactured last month. That's a 34,573 per cent increase on the 197 new models that left assembly lines in April 2020, when auto companies were forced to halt production to stave off the spread of the virus a year ago.

Taking into account the 'artificial' year-on-year output increase, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said a better comparison is the 70,791 cars built in April 2019, which shows a decrease in production of just 3.5 per cent.

But with the sector showing signs of recovery from the pandemic, SMMT bosses warned that further challenges face car makers, notably the continued shortage of semiconductor chips that is restricting outputs of vehicles and other technology.

Rebound: UK outputs of new cars in April were just 3.5% down on production in April 2019, with last year's figures not applicable given that factories were forced to close during the first national Covid-19 lockdown

So far this year, UK factories have turned out 374,864 cars, down by 15 per cent on the same four-month period in 2019 - with 2020 stats not really applicable given the impact of Covid-19 on all industries.

Compared with a five-year average, production was down 42.9 per cent last month and by almost a third for January to April, said the SMMT as it looked to downplay any suggestion of a full rebound for the sector.

The trade body said April's figures also showed the increasing shift towards electrified vehicles, with more than one in five cars being battery electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid.

In the year to date, alternatively fuelled model production is up by a third on the same period in 2019.

UK car production rose significantly, 'but artificially', in April, with year-on-year figures compared to a period when factories were closed during the first national lockdown. SMMT says that when compared to a five-year average, production is down 42.9% and by almost a third for January to April

The trade body attempted to downplay the suggestion of a rebound for the sector - despite there being signs of recovery in the data

The European Union remains the most important destination for British cars, taking 52 per cent of all exports, followed by the US (17.4 per cent) and China (7.4 per cent), the stats show.

Chief executive Mike Hawes said: 'April's figures were always going to be exceptional as factories were closed at this time last year amid the first wave of the pandemic.

'However, the situation for UK car manufacturers remains challenging, particularly with the worldwide shortage of semiconductors affecting output.

'While it's good news that the UK is on track with its Covid road map back to normality, we still need strong domestic demand and given we're export-led, confident overseas markets to drive a recovery, both for the automotive sector and for the wider economy.'

The SMMT warned the industry still faces challenges despite production showing a clear sign of recovery in April

More than a third of new car buyers won't wait for delayed deliveries, research suggests

Jim Holder, editorial director at automotive publication What Car?, said today's published figures show an industry that's 'in recovery'. And its own research suggests plenty of consumer appetite for new motors, as long as no further lockdowns force the closure of showrooms.

However, he warned buyers won't be willing to wait for new cars if manufacturers are forced to delay deliveries due to the computer chip shortage.

'Our research of in-market buyers continues to show strong levels of demand in the market, with 31 per cent looking to buy in the next three months,' he explained.

'It will be crucial that the Government's Covid roadmap stays on track, with dealers allowed to stay open, as showroom closures will undoubtedly have another significant impact on production lines.

'Another source of concern for the industry is the continuing microchip shortage, which is affecting both lead times and vehicle specification levels.

'Our latest research of 1,920 in-market buyers has found 38 per cent of new car buyers are not willing to wait more than two months for their car.

'If waiting times cannot be met, 35 per cent of buyers tell us they will look at existing stock or used models instead, which will add pressure to the already inflated used car market.'

Chairman of Spanish brand Seat, Wayne Griffith, said this week that it is maintaining broadly stable production despite the global shortage of semiconductor chips.

If waiting times cannot be met, 35 per cent of buyers tell us they will look at existing stock or used models instead, which will add pressure to the already inflated used car market Jim Holder, What Car?

However, he said production at the firm's plant near Barcelona would continue in August when it typically stops for four weeks of summer holidays to recover production lost in the first half.

'The lack of semiconductor (chips) is still a challenge but we are managing it well. What's most important is to have a good demand for our products,' he explained.

Reports emerged yesterday that Nissan is in advanced talks with the UK government to build a huge car battery factory that would bring thousands of jobs to Sunderland.

The factory would be created at Nissan's existing hub in the North East and assist in the production of 200,000 battery cars per year, according to the Financial Times.

The 'gigafactory' will reportedly be built under a post-Brexit plan to make Britain Nissan's largest electric car production site outside of Tochigi, Japan.

An announcement by the Japanese carmaker could emerge ahead of the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow in November. However, Nissan will reportedly need millions of pounds in financial support from the UK government in order to make their plans a reality.
Budding entrepreneurs are being offered a chance to test their ideas with private members club Soho House.

The firm, founded by hospitality tycoon Nick Jones, is giving them the opportunity to try out business concepts or products in a Dragons Den-style competition.

For example, applicants can pitch a food or drink product to be featured on a restaurant menu, design homeware to be sold by Soho Home or a bedroom at one of its clubs, launch a beauty product with Soho Skin or create a podcast or other content with the groups in-house team.

Soho House, founded by hospitality tycoon Nick Jones (pictured), is giving entrepreneurs the opportunity to try out business concepts or products in a Dragons Den-style competition

Aspiring chefs could even run a Soho House restaurant for six months, at London venues in Exmouth Market, Holloway Road, or Whitechapel.

Up to 10,000 will be made available for special equipment or interior changes. The scheme, called Soho Chance, will see the winners provided with mentoring and support to help them develop their ideas and some will also receive fees or shares of product sales.

It is aimed at someone who is just starting out, or starting again, Soho House said, and people from a diverse range of backgrounds are being encouraged to put themselves forward.

The latest project comes as Soho House plans a 2billion float on the stock market in New York.

Jones, 57, said: I want to help people get back on their feet after a difficult year. Weve spent 26 years at Soho House building out different areas of the business - from our houses to our digital platforms and retail.

Passing on everything weve learned, and giving people access to our teams to help make their ideas a success is something that really excites me.

Applications will be accepted from today until July 9. The UK-only scheme will get under way in September.

The scheme runs out of ten Soho House branches: London, Amsterdam, New York, Toronto, Hong Kong, Brighton, Oxfordshire, Chicago, Los Angeles and Mumbai. And Soho House, which operates nearly 30 clubs worldwide, is also seeking to offer more hospitality apprenticeships.

Jones, who himself left school aged 17, said: When I went into hospitality it wasnt a very desirable place to be but Im glad to say thats changed. We want to help with that, providing young people in the UK with the skills to start a promising career.
First Group shareholders have voted in favour of allowing the firm to sell its US school bus and transit divisions for 3.3billion.

Just 61.3 per cent of investors in the train and bus business voted in favour of the deal with 38.7 per cent rejecting it.

Only 50 per cent of shareholders needed to agree to the deal for it to be approved.

All aboard: First Group shareholders have voted in favour of allowing the firm to sell its US school bus and transit divisions for 3.3bn

Bosses sold the First Student and First Transit businesses to EQT Infrastructure more than a year after first announcing plans to quit North America following pressure from activist investors.

First Groups largest shareholder, activist investor Coast Capital, had said it would vote against the deal, saying it undervalued the divisions.

Coast wrote to First Groups board demanding yesterdays vote be pushed back by 60 days to allow for an independent valuation for the businesses.

But the firm refused and held the vote, which was also criticised by its second-largest investor Schroders.




NEWS PROVIDED BY

Catholic League

May 27, 2021



NEW YORK, May 27, 2021 /Christian Newswire/ -- Catholic League president Bill Donohue comments on abortion-rights activists:

Pro-abortion activists are in a state of hysteria. The reasons why are not hard to understand.

In communities and states across the country there has been an explosion in pro-life legislation. In fact, more than 500 legal restrictions have been introduced in state legislatures over the past four months. Moreover, there are now 29 "sanctuary cities" for the unborn, locales that prohibit abortion procurement and services. On top of this, the Supreme Court has agreed to hear a Mississippi case that could overturn Roe v. Wade. No wonder the alarms are going off in pro-abortion quarters.

As usual, pro-abortion activists are speaking from the same playbook. Alexis McGill Johnson, the president of Planned Parenthood, calls current conditions "dire." Speaking like the hard-core leftist that she is, she sees "intersectionality" at work, or a confluence of forces that work to undermine her agenda. That is why she blames "misogyny," "white supremacy" and "patriarchy" for what ails her mission.

NARAL Pro-Choice America also cites the harm that legal protections for the unborn bequeath. Such laws "disproportionately harm Black, Indigenous, Latinx, and people of color; low-income; and rural communities, and are part of a coordinated effort by the Right to maintain white patriarchal control at all costs."

As one who has been part of the pro-life community for decades, I believe I speak for most of us when I say that such characterizations are total nonsense. No one in our camp speaks the way these pro-abortion fanatics think we speak. What motivates us is quite simple: offering protections for the life of innocent unborn babies. We are not interested in punishing anyone or in servicing some racial or political cause.

Others blame the Catholic Church. Jamie Manson, the lesbian activist who runs the anti-Catholic pro-abortion letterhead called Catholics for Choice, tells us in a New York Times guest essay that "the pervasive theology [of the Catholic Church] shapes policies that cause women untold suffering." She means by that the Church's opposition to abortion. She does not explain why more Catholic women attend Mass than men do, and why Catholic women are in the forefront of the pro-life community.

Many pro-abortion activists are not convinced that President Biden has done enough to serve their agenda. This is strange given that he is the most rabid pro-abortion president in the history of our nation. He even wants to force taxpayers to pay for abortions. He also supports legislation that could make Catholic hospitals perform them. What more do they want?

They want him to "talk the talk." McGill Johnson says, "He has work to do in talking through things, actually saying the word 'abortion.'" Manson blames the bishops for intimidating him from being more blunt. "It's no accident that Mr. Biden still has not uttered the word 'abortion' since his election and his administration often uses euphemisms like 'women's health care,' 'choice,' 'bodily autonomy' and 'reproductive rights.'"

Renee Bracey Sherman, who runs an abortion storytelling group, We Testify, has had it with White House press secretary Jen Psaki. "I am glad to see that [Psaki] took the time to share that President Biden does indeed believe that we should have the right to abortion, but it's getting a little comical that she is utterly unable to say the word or what the administration plans to do about expanding access."

These are not rational voices. Leaving aside the irrationality of rejecting the scientific evidence that life begins at conception, their condemnation of Biden and his administration for not "talking their talk"even though they are winning on policyshows how they have succumbed to delirium.

The pro-life community should be emboldened by this hysteria. It demonstrates that even though our "devout Catholic" president is not on our side, he cannot stop us from moving forward.
A bitter defamation lawsuit is now brewing between Johnny Depp and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) after new documents revealed the non-profit's staff penned the explosive domestic violence op-ed at the center of the actor's $50million libel suit against ex-wife Amber Heard.

A trove of emails seen by DailyMail.com suggest Heard, 35, had minimal input in the December 2018 article which was written by an ACLU strategist then submitted to her for approval.

The draft went through multiple legal revisions, with Heard's lawyer anxious not to mention Depp, 57, by name or breach a non-disclosure agreement in the former couple's $7million divorce settlement.

But when it appeared in the Washington Post, Depp sued instead for libel, arguing the 1,000-word essay - entitled: 'I spoke up against sexual violence and faced our culture's wrath' - was a clear reference to their failed marriage and falsely labeled him an abuser.

Johnny Depp could be gearing up to sue the ACLU for defamation after emails reveal it was the non-profit's staff that ex-wife Amber Heard's explosive domestic violence op-ed at the center of the actor's $50million libel suit against her

Emails obtained by DailyMail.com suggest Heard, 35, had minimal input in her 2018 Washington Post op-ed. Depp, 57, sued the actress after it was published, claiming the article included references to their failed marriage and falsely labeled him an abuser

Three years on, the ACLU's involvement is threatening to drag the nonprofit deeper into the toxic lawsuit. Depp's lawyers hint it could even see them added as a defendant.

'This new trove of emails finally proves one of the things the ACLU has fought for years to hide: they wrote Amber Heard's false op-ed for her and were co-conspirators with Ms Heard from the start,' Depp's attorney Adam Waldman told DailyMail.com.

Documents reveal ACLU staff actually came up with the idea for Heard to write the essay now titled, 'I spoke up against sexual violence and faced our culture's wrath'

'Those who scheme, write and publish defamation, even purported free speech advocates, are not immune from the consequences.'

The ACLU is already facing a May 28 deadline to respond to a barrage of subpoenas from Depp's legal team who want to know if Heard ever honored a public 2016 pledge to donate half her divorce money - some $3.5million - to the vaunted civil rights group.

Now, previously unseen correspondence obtained by DailyMail.com reveals ACLU staff came up with the idea for the op-ed when they appointed Heard an ambassador on women's rights in late 2018.

In an email dated November 6, ACLU communications strategist Gerry Johnson emailed Heard proposing an article attacking the Trump administration for making the US less safe for 'survivors of genderbased violence'

The essay was assigned to 'op-ed writer' Robin Shulman who sent Heard a first draft on November 29. 'It was such a total pleasure to talk with you. I tried to gather your fire and rage and really interesting analysis and shape that into op-ed form,' Shulman wrote

The unpublished draft went through multiple legal revisions, with Heard's lawyer anxious not to mention Depp, 57, by name. Above, the top email shows pushback from Heard and Shulman, trying to make the references to Depp more obvious

An email dated December 12, 2018, shows Amber thanked ACLU staff for 'making sure that this article conveys it's (sic) message and my voice'

'I think Eric's edits still get us 95 percent of what you want  I say send it off and dam (sic) the torpedoes ahead!' Sean T. Walsh, a member of Heard's communications team said in a December 12 email

Communications strategist Gerry Johnson emailed Heard's reps on November 6 proposing an article attacking the Trump administration for making the 'US less safe for survivors of genderbased violence.'

'She can also, of course, mention Trump's irresponsible attacks on Christine Blasey Ford and survivors who don't report right away.

'If she feels comfortable, she can interweave her personal story, saying how painful it is as a GBV survivor to witness these setbacks,' Johnson wrote.

'Would this be of interest? And if so, would you like for us to do the first draft (might: include a quick phone interview to get her thoughts) or would Amber prefer to start it off?'

The essay was assigned to 'op-ed writer' Robin Shulman who sent Heard a first draft on November 29.

'It was such a total pleasure to talk with you. I tried to gather your fire and rage and really interesting analysis and shape that into op-ed form,' she said.

Heard wrote to Shulman a week later to say: 'Everyone was very impressed. Thank you for finding my voice.'

However, Heard's lawyer Eric George sounded a note of caution days later on December 17, striking out obvious references to Depp and warning that any references to their disastrous 18-month marriage would land her in court

Another email draft showed a version of the article marked with legal edits

Her lawyer Eric George sounded a note of caution, however, striking out obvious references to Depp and warning that any mention of their disastrous 18-month marriage would land Heard in court.

'Any reference at all to marriage or divorce - even to say either the word marriage or divorce and then to elaborate that you're not in fact talking about it - is a technical violation,' he wrote.

'Would a reasonable ex - or his lawyer - object? Of course not. Will the opposing side that we're dealing with? Likely yes.'

Heard and Shulman were keen to mention how the Aquaman actress sought a restraining order after her breakup but that was similarly nixed.

'I think Eric's edits still get us 95 percent of what you want  I say send it off and dam (sic) the torpedoes ahead!' Sean T. Walsh, a member of Heard's communications team, said in a December 12 email.

The op-ed was published on the Washington Post website six days later and appeared in print the next day.

'Like many women, I had been harassed and sexually assaulted by the time I was of college age,' the article read.

'But I kept quiet - I did not expect filing complaints to bring justice. And I didn't see myself as a victim.

'Then two years ago, I became a public figure representing domestic abuse, and I felt the full force of our culture's wrath for women who speak out.'

Amber Heard, left, with her partner Bianca Butti, right, address the media outside the High Court in London after the final day of her ex-husband Johnny Depp's libel trial on July 28, 2020

Three months later Depp filed for defamation in Fairfax County, Virginia, where the Post is printed, saying the article wrecked his reputation and got him booted from the role of Captain Jack Sparrow.

The actor is fighting an uphill battle to salvage his reputation after Britain's High Court last year rejected a separate defamation claim against The Sun newspaper over a 2018 article labeling him a 'wife beater', ruling Heard's allegations of abuse were 'substantially true'.

Friends say he's determined to fight on and won't contemplate settling the Virginia case, which accuses Heard of creating a 'hoax' account of being a domestic violence survivor to boost her career.

In her own filings, Heard does not claim to be the sole author of the op-ed, stating that she wrote it 'with the assistance and advice of others.'

She says the 'op-ed speaks for itself' and maintains her allegations of domestic violence are true.

Heard's legal team has asked a judge to toss the case, arguing Depp's arguments were dismantled in the earlier London proceedings.

They have also countersued for $100million, cataloging the years of alleged abuse she suffered at the hands of 'the monster' and accusing Waldman of smearing her in the media.

'All the evidence has already been fully considered and decided in a legal action brought by Mr. Depp, who presented his evidence in a three week trial before a Judge in the London High Court,' Heard's attorney, Elaine Charlson Bredehoft, said in a statement.

Depp and Heard (pictured in 2011) are due back in court for upcoming defamation case in Virginia

'The Court wrote an extensive, 129-page opinion finding against Mr. Depp. Mr. Depp's appeals have been denied. The Judgment is final.'

Heard and Depp met a decade ago on the set of The Rum Diary back and married four years later before a now-infamous blowout fight ended their marriage in May 2016.

They agreed to a $7million divorce settlement in August of that year when Heard vowed to give the windfall to charity, splitting it between the ACLU and the Children's Hospital Los Angeles.

Back in January, however, DailyMail.com revealed correspondence between Heard and hospital management suggesting she gave them only $100,000 - way short of the promised $3.5million 'gift'.

The ACLU was subpoenaed for the same information but has thus far refused to cooperate with multiple subpoenas.

Heard's lawyer said she intended to fulfil her pledge 'eventually', blaming her expensive legal battles with Depp for the delay.

The Virginia case won't go before a jury until next year because of a backlog of trials caused by the pandemic.
Bella Hadid attended the same pro-Palestinian protest as the man arrested for allegedly beating a bystander in Times Square last week and calling him a 'filthy Jew' - and posted a picture of him on her Instagram.

The model posted a picture of Waseem Awawdeh sitting on a car amid dozens of protestors in a procession on May 16, along with several other pictures and a video of herself at the rally in New York City.

In her post including a picture of Awawdeh among other protestors, Hadid wrote: 'The way my heart feels  To be around this many beautiful, smart, respectful, loving, kind and generous Palestinians all in one place... it feels whole! We are a rare breed!!'

Police say Awawdeh was among a gang of demonstrators who four days later punched a Jewish man to the pavement then pummeled him while he was down, yelling anti-Semitic epithets.

He is charged with assault as a hate crime, gang assault, menacing, aggravated harassment as a hate crime and criminal possession of a weapon.

A source close to Hadid said she does not know the man, did not associate with him at the protest and condemns any anti-Semitic violence.

Bella Hadid posted a picture of Waseem Awawdeh (circled) sitting on a car amid dozens of demonstrators at a pro-Palestine protest on May 16 in New York City. In her post Hadid wrote: 'The way my heart feels  To be around this many beautiful, smart, respectful, loving, kind and generous Palestinians all in one place... it feels whole! We are a rare breed!!'

Bella Hadid was seen at the peaceful demonstration that paraded through the Bay Bridge neighborhood of Brooklyn, in a black and white bandana and burgundy face mask. Later she sat on the back of a truck with other protestors waving Palestinian flags

On Friday, the NYPD identified 23-year-old Waseem Awawdah as one of the suspects in the attack

Bella was seen in photos and videos immersed in the crowd as she protested last week

In her post including a picture of Awawdeh among other protestors, Hadid wrote: 'The way my heart feels  To be around this many beautiful, smart, respectful, loving, kind and generous Palestinians all in one place... it feels whole! We are a rare breed!!'

Video of the assault showed 29-year-old accountant Joseph Borgen left defenseless on the ground as he was battered by the angry mob outside of 1604 Broadway.

In an exclusive interview with DailyMail.com last week, Borgen said there were eight to 10 people taking part in the beatdown and they were shouting anti-Semitic slurs such as: 'You filthy Jew. We're going to f*****g kill you. Go back to Israel. Hamas is going to kill you.'

Joseph Borgen, 29, spoke to DailyMail.com one day after he was left bruised and battered by a group of pro-Palestinian men in Midtown Manhattan on Thursday

Brooklyn-based Awawdeh, 23, was arrested in connection with the attack on Thursday and was pictured being released from the 5th Precinct in handcuffs the next day.

In her earlier May 16 post including a picture of Awawdeh among other protestors, Hadid wrote: 'The way my heart feels  To be around this many beautiful, smart, respectful, loving, kind and generous Palestinians all in one place... it feels whole! We are a rare breed!!'

She shared photographs of herself at the earlier, peaceful demonstration that paraded through the Bay Bridge neighborhood of Brooklyn, in a black and white bandana and burgundy face mask, sat on the back of a truck with other protestors waving Palestinian flags.

One photo shows Awawdeh perched on the hood of a Chevrolet truck in a black t-shirt and shorts and a headband in the Palestine flag colors, waving the crutch he later allegedly used to beat Borgen.

Stood with him on the car were a woman and three other men, one wearing a full face mask and beating a drum.

The Instagram post received over 4.5 million likes.

Hadid deleted the post after StopAntisemitism.org, an organization dedicated to tackling hate crimes against Jews, posted the picture on Twitter and identified Awawdeh.

'Horrific - @bellahadid caught protesting with Waseem Awawdeh, the same man that was arrested for brutally assaulting an innocent Orthodox Jewish man in NYC last night!' the organization wrote in the Tweet.

After Hadid deleted the picture, the organization called her out again, tweeting on Monday '@bellahadid you can delete/archive all the photos you want of your affiliation with Palestinian men that assault Jews in NYC but the internet is forever.'

A source with knowledge of Hadid's movements at the May 16 protest told DailyMail.com that she had no contact with Awawdeh and that she does not know him.

Hadid deleted the post after StopAntisemitism.org, an organization dedicated to tackling hate crimes against Jews, posted the picture on Twitter and identified Awawdeh

Video of the assault showed Borgen was left defenseless as he was kicked, punched, and beaten with crutches and flag poles by a mob of eight to 10 people

Borgen recalled lying on the ground in a fetal position, 'trying to guard my head and face, literally just trying to make it out of their alive'

The supermodel has become a lightning rod for criticism from Israelis and the country's supporters after her outspoken backing of Palestinians in the conflict.

Hadid, 24, has already earned an official rebuke from the Israeli government itself after she posted a closeup of herself on social media with tears rolling down her nose, saying she felt a 'deep sense of pain' for the Palestinian people following the outbreak of fighting in Gaza.

'You cannot allow yourself to be desensitized to watching human life being taken,' Hadid wrote.

'Palestinian lives are the lives that will help change the world. And they are being taken from us by the second.'

Following that picture and after Hadid appeared at the pro-Palestinian rally in Brooklyn, the Israeli Foreign Ministry's Twitter account tweeted: 'When celebrities like @BellaHadid advocate for throwing Jews into the sea, they are advocating for the elimination of the Jewish State.

'This shouldn't be an Israeli-Palestinian issue this should be a human issue,' the Israeli ministry account wrote. 'Shame on you.'

There is no footage of Hadid calling for Israelis to be harmed, and fact-checking website Snopes labeled Israel's claim that Hadid wants to throw Jews into the sea as 'unproven.'

On her Instagram account Hadid posted on May 12 'anti-semitism is NOT okay' and 'Jewish people are not responsible for the actions of the Israeli army or the government policies of Israel.'

In a separate post which remains on Hadid's Instagram, the model wrote about her Palestinian heritage and longstanding support for demonstrators, sharing a picture of herself at a pro-Palestine protest four years ago.

'It has always been #freepalestine. ALWAYS. I have a lot to say about this but for now, please read and educate yourself,' she wrote.

'This is not about religion. This is not about spewing hate on one or the other. This is about Israeli colonization, ethnic cleansing, military occupation and apartheid over the Palestinian people that has been going on for YEARS!'

Bella's father Mohamed Hadid was born in Nazareth  now in northern Israel  six months after Israel's founding-father David Ben-Gurion proclaimed the establishment of the state in 1948. Her mother is Dutch former model and Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Yolanda Hadid.

The model wrote about her Palestinian heritage and longstanding support for demonstrators, sharing a picture of herself at a pro-Palestine protest four years ago

The supermodel has become a lightning rod for criticism from Israelis and the country's supporters after her outspoken backing of Palestinians in the conflict and often posts about her pride in being Palestinian

Hadid, 24, has already earned an official rebuke from the Israeli government itself after she posted a closeup of herself on social media with tears rolling down her nose, saying she felt a 'deep sense of pain' for the Palestinian people following the outbreak of fighting in Gaza

Mohamed claims his family lost their house to a Jewish family they had been sheltering and soon after his birth they moved, first to Syria, then Tunisia and Greece before his father got a job at the Voice of America in Washington, D.C. in the mid-1950s.

Mohamed Hadid, who has joint Jordanian and American citizenship, has made millions in as a top-of-the-line real estate developer in Los Angeles.

Bella has appeared in dozens of campaigns including Dior, Nike, Bulgari and Tag Heuer. She is probably best-known for her long-running affiliations with designer Michael Kors.

The 24-year-old was named Model of the Year at the Los Angeles Fashion Awards, British Fashion Awards and GQ Men of the Year Awards in 2016.

She has also been a vocal supporter of Palestinians and critic of Israel for years.

Violent clashes have erupted between pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian demonstrations in New York over the last week as tensions in the Middle East flared.

On Thursday, two fireworks were thrown into a crowd near Times Square, leaving a 55-year-old woman injured just hours after a cease-fire was declared between Israel and Gaza militants.

After Awawdeh's arrest on Thursday NYPD said they are still seeking six other suspects.

Borgen, who lives on the Upper East Side, was wearing a grey kippa and walking toward Times Square around 6:30pm last Thursday when a young man with a black bandana started chasing him.

Bella and Gigi's father Mohamed Hadid was born in Nazareth  now in northern Israel  six months after Israel's founding-father David Ben-Gurion proclaimed the establishment of the state in 1948

'I love my family, I love my Heritage, I love Palestine,' Hadid captured a photo of her grandparents' wedding in Palestine in 1941

'I turned around to try to figure out what was going on and the next thing I knew I was surrounded by a whole crowd of people who proceeded to physically attack me, beat me, kick me, punch me, hit me with crutches, hit me with flag poles,' he told DailyMail.com Friday afternoon from his apartment after being released from Bellevue Hospital.

'I don't even want to look in the mirror,' said Borgen. 'After I wound up on the ground, I was literally just in a fetal position, trying to guard my head and face, literally just trying to make it out of their alive.

'I thought I was going to die. I thought I was really going to die.'

He said the most painful part occurred toward the end, when they pepper sprayed him.

'I thought I was getting urinated on because I felt a stream on my face. 'They maced me or pepper sprayed me for like a minute straight.

'My whole face was on fire. I couldn't see. In the hospital, they literally had to drain out my eyes. My skin's still on fire in certain places,' he added.

Borgen said the ruthless beatdown finally came to an end when police officers showed up and dispersed the crowd.

'It could have been worse. If you've seen the video, especially, it could have been much worse,' he added.

He said he was expecting it be a peaceful demonstration as he headed to midtown, where friends were gathering for a rally to support Israel in its conflict with Hamas.

'I was going there to show my support, show my pride in Israel, let them know we have their back even though we're 6,000 miles away,' Borgen said.

He said there were no real problems last week when he joined a similar demonstration.
A young college graduate from Ohio is $1million richer after winning the state's first Vax-a-Million vaccination incentive prize.

Abbigail Bugenske, of Silverton, Ohio was announced as the recipient of a $1million prize after winning the state's first Vax-a-Million vaccination jackpot

Abbigail Bugenske, of Silverton, was announced as the recipient of the coveted cash prize on Wednesday evening, after her name was selected from a random generator. More than 2.7 million Ohioans entered the competition.

Four more $1million prizes are up for grabs in the state over the next four weeks, with winners announced each Wednesday night.

Abbigail's grandmother told The Washington Post that she was in disbelief at the news.

'I kept saying, 'Stop, this is a scam. It's, what, a million? No, you don't mean a million, you mean a thousand!'' she giddily told the publication.

Bugenske is an engineer at GE Aviation and a grad school student at The Ohio State University, according to her Facebook profile.

She graduated with an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering from Michigan State just last year.

Abbigail Bugenske (right, with her mother) from Ohio is $1 million richer after winning the state's first Vax-a-Million vaccination incentive prize. She is pictured with her mom

Bugenske graduated with an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering from Michigan State just last year

Bugenske was reportedly eager to receive her vaccine, and even pushed her elderly grandmother to have her shots. '

'She encouraged me all the time to get it,'Bungenske's grandmother told The Washington Post, adding that she has now had both her Moderna jabs.

Meanwhile, in addition to the $1million prizes, Ohio also is giving away five full-ride college scholarships to entrants under the age of 18.

Joseph Costello, of Englewood near Dayton, was announced Wednesday as the first winner.

'It feels very good. I'm very happy about it and excited. Just overall very happy about it,' he said to GMA on Thursday morning.

14-year-old Joseph Costello is the winner of full college scholarship as part of the Ohio's Vax-A-Million giveaway: "It feels very good. Im very happy about it and excited." https://t.co/aT17GKgYuW pic.twitter.com/PoHlQGlaDW  Good Morning America (@GMA) May 27, 2021

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Joseph's mother, Colleen, said she was overjoyed for her son.

'We're thrilled. We're really excited. We're super happy for this opportunity for Joseph.'

She explained that although the offer of a scholarship did not motivate them to get their son vaccinated, it did make them do it sooner.

'We were planning on having all our children vaccinated by the end of the month and the contest accelerated our decision and we pulled that forward and got it done before the first drawing,' she explained.

'You just don't think this is going to happen. So you see that this rolled out the way it did in the moment it's still going to be sinking in for awhile and we're thankful about it,' said Joseph's father, Richard.

14-year-old Joseph Costello, pictured center, won a scholarship to Ohio State University. He is pictured alongside parents, Colleen, and Richard

'We're excited that this has inspired so many Ohioans to get vaccinated, and were thrilled to announce the winners of the first round of drawings,' said Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine in a statement.

DeWine, a Republican, posed for a photo with Costello and his family, which he posted to Facebook.

The governor announced the vaccination incentive competition on May 12 in a bid to boost lagging vaccination rates.

The number of people in Ohio age 16 and older who received their initial COVID-19 vaccine jumped 33 percent in the week after the state announced the incentive lottery, according to an Associated Press analysis.

Joseph Costello, of Englewood near Dayton, was announced Wednesday as the first winner of the full-ride college scholarship. He is pictured front and center with Gov. Mike DeWine (second from left)

However, not everyone was impressed.

Rep Jena Powell, an Ohio Republican in the Legislature, attempted to block the state's lottery program, calling it a waste of resources.

Powell referred to the lottery as a 'grave misuse' of funds earlier this week.

More than 5.2 million people in Ohio - or about 45 percent of the state - had at least started the vaccination process as of Monday.

About 4.6 million people -or 39 percent of the state - are done getting vaccinated.

Nationally, more than 165 million Americans have started the vaccination process - almost half of the entire population.

Vax-a-Million is open to permanent Ohio residents who have received either the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine or their first part of the two-dose Pfizer or Moderna vaccination.

Participants must register to enter by phone or via the Vax-a-Million website. The deadline for new registrations is just before midnight on Sunday.

Gov. DeWine announced the vaccination incentive competition on May 12 in a bid to boost lagging vaccination rates. The number of people in Ohio age 16 and older who received their initial COVID-19 vaccine jumped 33 percent in the week after the state announced the incentive lottery

DeWine's proposal inspired similar vaccine-incentive lotteries in Colorado, Maryland, New York state and Oregon.

In Colorado, Democratic Gov. Jared Polis says the state will have a weekly lottery for five residents to win $1 million. The names will be announced each Tuesday.

Colorado is similarly setting aside $5 million of federal coronavirus relief funds that would have gone toward vaccine advertising for five residents to win $1 million each.

Elsewhere, United Airlines is also attempting to incentivize flyers to get the COVID-19 vaccination by giving them the chance to win flights for a year's worth of travel.

Under the terms of their 'Your Shot to Fly' sweepstakes, members of the airline's frequent flier program who upload their vaccination records to United's website between now and mid-June will be entered to win a roundtrip flight for two, in any class of service, to anywhere in the world United flies.

The carrier is to give away 30 pairs of tickets throughout the month of June before announcing five randomly selected members for a grand prize of travel for a year for themselves and a companion.

Mega Multiplier prizes will range from $20 to $5 million, and those who receive a COVID vaccine at one of the 10 state-run sites will have a one-in-nine chance of winning a prize

However, a public health expert told DailyMail.com that, while the lotteries are worthwhile to sway those who are on the fence, they are unlikely to convince adults who are staunchly against getting the jab.

'Lynn Kamerlin, a professor at Uppsala University in Sweden, estimates around 20 percent of Americans will opt to avoid being vaccinated.

'Ultimately, the key goal across the world is to get as many shots into arms as possible, every vaccinated person is one more person with substantially reduced risk of spreading the virus further,' Lynn Kamerlin stated.

'In that sense, the lottery will likely get a group of people who otherwise would not have gotten vaccinated vaccinated, but it will hit a ceiling because eventually you will hit the people who will not get vaccinated under any circumstances.

'How to reach out to those people I am not sure.'
Authorities announced the dismantling of a sprawling drug trafficking network linked to Mexico's Sinaloa cartel, resulting in the seizure of enough fentanyl to kill 21 million people, more than 100 illegal firearms and $5.4million in cash.

The large-scale bust was the culmination of a three-year investigation by the feds and Virginia officials, codenamed 'Operation Angels Envy,' which began in 2017.

The probe focused on a network that ferried drugs from the Sinaloa cartel in Mexico through California to seven drug dealing organizations around the nation's capital.

Operation Angels Envy eventually stretched to seven states and resulted in 33 arrests, the confiscation of 114 guns, including assault-style rifles; $6million in cash, jewelry and vehicles; 473 pounds of methamphetamine; 42 kilograms of fentanyl; and 129 kilograms of cocaine.

A three-year investigation, codenamed Operation 'Angels Envy,' has led to 33 arrests and the seizures of 473lbs of meth; 42 kilos of fentanyl; and 129 kilos of cocaine. The drugs pictured above were confiscated just in Loudoun County, Virginia

The probe focused on a trafficking network that ferried drugs from the Sinaloa cartel in Mexico through California to seven different drug dealing cells in and around Washington DC

Feds and deputies in Virginia have seized 114 illegal guns and $6million in cash and other assets

Some of the seized guns, which were meant to be shipped back to the cartel in Mexico, were assault-style rifles (left). More than $5.4million in cash was confiscated by the authorities

Officials said the total quantity of fentanyl seized would have been enough to kill more than the entire population of Washington, Maryland, Virginia and the surrounding counties, combined.

During the pandemic, when drug overdoses have been on the rise, getting narcotics off the streets 'undeniably spared the lives of countless members of our communities,' Raj Parekh, acting US attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, said during a press conference Wednesday.

Last year, an estimated 90,000 people died from overdoses nationally, mostly from opioids, up 27 percent from 2019.

The distributors from California linked to the Sinaloa cartel - once officially run by Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman - also were suppliers to a drug crew in Dayton, Ohio, that was connected to the 2019 slaying of Dayton Police officer Jorge Del Rio, 55. Del Rio was shot while executing a search warrant as part of a Drug Enforcement Administration task force, said Jarod Forget, special agent in charge of the DEA's Washington Division.

Cash in $20 bills is shown packaged in plastic bags in the wake of the bust

A pistol, holster and five rounds of ammunition are displayed by the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office, which took part in the massive drug bust

This assault-style rifle is one of 32 such weapons that were taken off the streets as part of Operation 'Angels Envy'

One specific seizure in Loudoun County, Virginia, outside Washington, that included 2 kilograms of fentanyl, 50 kilograms of cocaine and $1.4million in cash was the largest in county history, Sheriff Mike Chapman said.

'We seized enough fentanyl to kill every man, woman and child in Loudoun County- two times over,' Chapman said.

In Loudoun, which has a population of 413,000, there have been five suspected opioid fatalities so far this year.

In Alexandria earlier this year, Romaine Anthony Dixon, 32, of Camp Springs, Maryland, was sentenced to nearly 12 years in prison for his role in the conspiracy. Another Maryland man, Roger Vincent 42, of Temple Hills, has been sentenced to 15 years.

The sheriff of Loudoun County said the 2 kilos of fentanyl that was seized by his deputies would have been enough to kill every man, woman and child in the county twice over

This map shows the sprawl of the drug trafficking network from Mexico through California to the DC area, along with 10 of the 33 people who have been arrested

Two California men linked to the Sinaloa cartel - Michael Barroso, of Bellflower and Roberto Ramirez Jr, of Fullerton - received 10-year prison sentences in Alexandria, and a third man awaits sentencing.

According to investigators, the drug trafficking cells in the DC metro area had a Los Angeles-based transportation network, which used tractor-trailers and shipping crates to move methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl and other drugs supplied by the Sinaloa across the country.

These traffickers would then transfer profits and firearms back to the cartel in Mexico.

The wide-ranging investigation ultimately led to the identification and takedown of other violent drug trafficking organizations in California, Missouri, Ohio, New England and New York.
Domestic violence offenders could be placed on a register under the same conditions as rapists, following a series of horrific murders and attacks on women and children in Queensland.

The suggestion was one of 13 put forward in a discussion paper by the Queensland Women's Safety and Justice on Thursday.

If implemented, domestic violence offenders would be subject to police checks, limitations on where they can live and work, and strict bans on travel and social media - the same as serial sex offenders.

The register would not be available to the public but would allow police to keep track of where offenders who are allowed in the community are living.

Hannah Clarke (pictured) and her three children were doused in petrol and set alight by their controlling father in Brisbane

Other major ideas in the discussion paper included adding a new offence named 'commit domestic violence' to the Domestic and Family Violence Act 2012, and creating a standalone 'coercive control' offence.

Coercive control is a strategic form of ongoing oppression that works to frighten the victim into submission.

The discussion paper also proposed a new 'cruelty' offence, which would be based on the existing 'torture' offence and carries a maximum jail sentence of 14 years.

The proposals are a bid to keep Queensland families safe after a series of murders and attacks on women and children between 2019 and 2021.

Gold Coast mum Kelly Wilkinson (pictured, second left) died after she was allegedly set on fire by her estranged husband in April

In February 2020 Hannah Clarke and her three children were doused in petrol and set alight by their controlling father in Brisbane.

In February 2021 Doreen Langham's burnt body was found in her townhouse in Logan, near Brisbane - hours after she called police for help.

Gold Coast mum Kelly Wilkinson died after she was allegedly set on fire by her estranged husband in April, while her three children were in the house.

Her ex-husband Brian Earl Johnston - an ex-corporal in the US military - has been charged with her murder and breaching a domestic violence order.

Pictured: Doreen Langham and her ex-partner Gary Hely. Ms Langham's burnt remains were found in her townhouse

A former Court of Appeal judge, who is leading the taskforce, hopes the discussion paper will generate feedback from the community.

'We want to hear from victims and survivors of domestic violence,' she said.

'Particularly those who have suffered coercive control and acknowledge the courage it takes to share these difficult experiences.'

The taskforce has called for feedback submissions by the end of July, before a report is submitted to Parliament in October.

Recommendations will be presented to the government in March 2022.
Senator apologised for her outburst on the Today show on Thursday

She insulted their openly-gay CEO Alan Joyce in an argument with staff

Senator was refused entry to their Chairman's Lounge in Melbourne on March 25

Qantas has banned Jacqui Lambie from all flights and services for six months

Jacqui Lambie has been banned from flying Qantas after referring to CEO Alan Joyce with a homophobic slur during an explosive argument with airline staff.

While previous reports suggested the fiery Tasmanian senator had been banned from accessing their invitation-only airport lounges, the full extent of her fall out with Australia's marquee airline has now been revealed.

Lambie was at the service desk of Qantas' exclusive Chairman's Lounge in Melbourne Airport on March 25 when staff refused her entry.

While arguing to be let into the area popular with travelling politicians and top business people, she launched into an expletive-filled rant that descended into homophobic slurs against the airline's openly-gay CEO.

Jacqui Lambie apologised for her behaviour in an interview on the Today show on Thursday morning

CCVTV captioned her mentioning 'pussy power' and telling employees 'your CEO is a p##f,' - a reference to Joyce.

The senator and Qantas bosses discussed the outburst, which resulted in a six-month ban from flying with the airline, which began in April.

Ms Lambie apologised for the incident when she appeared on the Today show on Thursday and said it was triggered by workplace stress.

'It had been a long few weeks up in Parliament. It's just been a really, really long year. Basically I just blew my stack and unfortunately there was a couple of Qantas staff members that wore that,' Ms Lambie said.

'They should never have wore that and it was really unfair of me to do that to them. So once again, I'm extremely apologetic for my behaviour for that few minutes.'

The exclusive Chairman's Lounge in Melbourne Airport where Ms Lambie was refused entry on March 25 sparking a fiery outburst

Ms Lambie has been banned from all Qantas flights and services for six months after calling CEO Alan Joyce a 'poof'

The senator said she 'deserved every bit of the ban' and had written the airline staff a letter apologising for her behaviour.

Mr Joyce married his long-time partner Shayne Lloyd in a ritzy ceremony in Sydney's Circular Quay in November 2019.

Ms Lambie, a former army corporal, was first elected as a senator from 2014 to 2017, before being re-elected in 2019, championing issues such as veteran and foreign affairs, youth unemployment, and the criticism of Islam.

It is not the first time the outspoken politician's tongue has landed her in trouble.

In 2014, she apologised after describing her ideal man in a radio interview as 'well off' and 'well hung'.
An Australian nurse has revealed how she was swindled out of her life savings in an elaborate cryptocurrency scam, warnings others about the red flags she should have been mindful of.

Rhonda, who worked as a nurse in Sydney for 44 years, fell victim to the 'get rich quick' scam while she was preparing to retire.

The nurse had been surfing the internet when she saw an advertisement offering bitcoin investments using a fake celebrity endorsement from Sunrise host David Koch.

The nurse entered her email address and phone number into a short online form and 'invested' an initial $350 in the scam.

Sydney nurse Rhonda fell victim to the crypto scam after she entered her personal information into a online ad offering bitcoin investments

She told 2GB radio host Ben Fordham she continued to give the fraudulent company money through an account the scammers had set up for her.

The nurse said they had registered her with a few Australian companies and bought bitcoin through CoinSpot, a website that allows members to buy, sell and swap cryptocurrency.

At first the woman claims she saw positive returns from her investment and enjoyed a 'good rapport' with the scammers.

Employees of the fraudulent company would email her updates on her investment and phoned her twice a week in a bid to appear legitimate.

The scammers would also encourage the woman to spend some of the initial returns, suggesting she go out and buy a car, which she never did.

The nurse said she continued to invest more and more money into the fake bitcoin investment, until suddenly it was too late.

In March of this year the Sydney woman checked her account to find hundreds of thousands of dollars missing.

She told the radio host she had realised the bitcoin investment was a scam when she asked for her money back.

The scammers would email Rhonda updates about her fake investment and phoned her twice a week in a bid to appear legitimate

'They kept saying you owe more money and I told them I can't possibly owe you more money because I've given you all my money,' Rhonda said.

The nurse received phone calls from a 'money monitoring fund' who said they could help her track down the money if she paid them a fee.

Rhonda asked her friend James to look into the missing funds, who told her she had most likely been scammed and that her life savings were gone.

The veteran nurse is currently on the hunt for the culprits from the fraudulent organisation but said the search was costing her money she couldn't spare.

With the prospect of retirement now well out of reach, the woman has resigned herself to return to nursing.

'I always think, there's probably someone worse off than me, I'm healthy, I've got a good attitude to keep going. I'm just taking it one week at a time,' she said.

She warned listeners the scammers preyed on an older demographic because they had money and speculated the scammers were working in a group.

According to the ACCC, 2500 Australians have been duped by a cryptocurrency scam in the first three months of this year, losing a combined $20million

A GoFundMe page has been set up by a 2GB listener to help Rhonda piece her life back together after the scam, with a goal to raise $10,000.

'We all need to be aware of scammers and we should do everything we can to prevent them from targeting more honest and hard working Australians like Rhonda,' the campaign description reads.

'All money raised will help Rhonda rebuild her life after this devastating loss.'

According to the ACCC, 2500 Australians were duped by a cryptocurrency scam in the first three months of this year, losing a combined $20million.

This number is four times higher than what residents lost during the same period last year.

Daily Mail Australia have contacted CoinSpot for comment.
The Chicago Police Department has announced a new foot-pursuit policy that officials say makes the safety of officers and members of the public a priority.

The new policy, revealed Wednesday, comes in the wake of chases that ended with cops shooting and killing Adam Toledo, 13, and Anthony Alvarez, 21.

Toledo was killed on March 29 after he fled from officers on foot as they responded to reports of a shooing. The teen, who was armed, was shot dead by an officer after running down an alleyway in the dark.

Just two days later, on March 31, Alvarez was fatally shot in the back by a Chicago police officer while pursued him on foot for what Mayor Lori Lightfoot described as 'a minor traffic violation'. He was armed with a gun.

The new policy prohibits officers from giving chase on foot for minor traffic violations.

It also bars officers from separating from partners if they can't see the person they are chasing or if the officer or the person is injured.

Under the new rules, a chase must end if the officer has lost track of their location or their surroundings, if there is too much distance or obstacles between the officer and the person they are chasing, and if they will not be able to control the subject of the chase in a confrontation.

In addition, officers must first consider if the need to apprehend a suspect is worth the risk to the officer, the public or the subject before a foot pursuit takes place.

The policy also says officers can pursue people on foot only if they have probable cause the person committed a crime or believe that theyre about to commit one.

The Chicago Police Department has announced a new foot-pursuit policy that officials say makes the safety of officers and members of the public a priority. The new policy comes in the wake of the fatal police shooting of Adam Toledo (pictured)

lvarez was fatally shot in the back by a Chicago police officer while pursued him on foot for what Mayor Lori Lightfoot described as 'a minor traffic violation'. He was armed with a gun

Police officers must additionally activate body worn cameras for every foot pursuit.

Superintendent David Brown said officers had been using the strategies during foot chases, but making the strategy a written policy would make officers subject to disciplinary action if they violate it.

The new policy will temporarily go into effect June 11. The public will have an opportunity to offer feedback before it becomes permanent in September.

'It's essential the voices of our officers and community members are represented in policies that can directly affect them,' Brown stated on Wednesday.

'As we transform the police department through reform, we will continue to collaborate with our residents to make Chicago safer for everyone.'

The announcement of the new policy comes four years after the Department of Justice issued a report saying too many Chicago police chases were unnecessary or ended with officers shooting people they didnt need to and two years after a judge signed off on a consent decree requiring the department to adopt a foot pursuit policy.

The deaths of Toledo and Alvarez sparked outrage, with Mayor Lightfoot promising reform

The week after the fatal shootings of Toledo and Alvarez, Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced the department would implement a foot pursuit policy by summer.

'Because foot pursuits are one of the most dangerous actions that police officers can engage in, we cannot afford to wait any longer to put a policy in place that regulates them,' Lightfoot said in a statement announcing the policy.

Police officials say officers will undergo training to familiarize them with the new policy. The training will focus on the responsibilities of the pursuing officer, including the considerations the officer must take into account before taking up a pursuit and what should be done during a pursuit.

The week after the fatal shootings of Toledo and Alvarez, Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced the department would implement a foot pursuit policy by summer
A picture of footy fans at Marvel Stadium has sparked fears Melbourne's Covid outbreak is only going to get worse.

The Whittlesea cluster grew to 26 infections on Thursday morning, with 80 exposure sites spread across more than 30 Melbourne suburbs and Bendigo, Cohuna and Red Hill in regional Victoria.

The MCG and Marvel Stadium are amongst the exposure sites and three bars in the inner suburb of Prahran remain a 'concern'.

A positive case went to the Essendon/North Melbourne AFL game at Marvel Stadium on Sunday, 23 May.

Photos from the front of the venue and inside the concourse showed footy fans shoulder-to-shoulder as they walked through the stadium, causing concerns the virus could have spread rapidly through the crowd.

Photos from the front of Marvel Stadium and inside the concourse showed footy fans shoulder-to-shoulder as they walked through the stadium, causing concerns the virus could have spread rapidly through the crowd

Health authorities said individuals sitting on Level 1 between Aisles 5 and 28 or Level 3 between Aisles 6 and 29 must get tested and stay isolated until they have receive a negative result.

'The department is working with the AFL and Marvel Stadium to contact spectators to provide this advice,' the Department of Health said.

'Some individuals with the closest contact to the positive case will be directly provided more specific advice from the Department of Health.'

An infected person also attended the Collingwood-Port Adelaide AFL game at the MCG on Sunday.

Melbourne is expected to enter a lockdown on Thursday in an attempt to control the cluster.

Of significant concern is the case of the infected drinker who partied at three different bars in Prahran on Saturday night - and ended up kicking on until 4am on Sunday in one of the venues known for packed crowds and a pumping dancefloor.

Health workers are seen taking coronavirus tests at a drive-through clinic on Wednesday

The pub-crawler, unknowingly infected with a highly contagious double mutant Indian strain of the virus, began the evening at a cocktail bar on Chapel Street called Three Monkeys.

They arrived at about 9.15pm and then went down the street to the famed Somewhere Bar - an establishment frequented by young, hip partygoers.

That Saturday the venue was packed as DJs blasted out tunes late into the night.

Three Monkeys also had a good turnout, raising fears the infected drinker may have sparked a super-spreader event.

'It wasn't crazy but it was solid,' owner Antony Harvey told The Age of the crowd,

The infected case stayed at Somewhere Bar before heading back to Three Monkeys at about 1am.

Essendon Bombers players are seen greeting fans after winning on Sunday at Marvel Stadium

The positive case then headed off towards Circus Bar - known for its raucous dance floor - on Commercial Road and kept the party going until 4am.

Genomic sequencing shows the City of Whittlesea outbreak is linked to the case of a Wollert man, who contracted the virus in quarantine in South Australia earlier this month.

A report released on Wednesday in SA found it likely he caught the virus through aerosol transmission due to the 'timing of doors opening and closing' at an adjacent room occupied by an infected guest.

South Australia on Wednesday became the first state to close its border to residents of Greater Melbourne. NSW and Queensland are urging residents to reconsider travel to the city and parts of regional Victoria.

Victoria's last lockdown was for five days in February, after the virus escaped hotel quarantine and infected 13 people.

It was the state's third lockdown since the coronavirus pandemic began last year.
Two mates on a boys weekend camping trip have mysteriously disappeared in a remote croc-infested wilderness in Far North Queensland.

Friends and family raised the alarm with police when Caine Whitfield, 23, and Cameron Wilson, 31, vanished after one night in Lakefield National Park.

The pair of friends had driven for five hours from Cairns in their silver Toyota Hilux ute to reach the tropical bushland on May 22 and intended to stay for just one night.

But they failed to return and relatives have not heard or seen anything of them or their ute since. Police have now launched a massive manhunt for for them.

Friends and family raised the alarm with police when Caine Whitfield, 23, (pictured right) and Cameron Wilson, 31, (pictured left) vanished after one night in Lakefield National Park.

Cameron's distraught sister Katie Wilson posted on Facebook: 'Please help find my brother!

'Cameron Wilson and his friend Caine Whitfield went away to the Cape (horseshoe lagoon track maybe) on Saturday and has failed to return home which is completely out of character.

'He hasn't shown up for work for the last three days or been home or seen. Rangers have been to horseshoe lagoon and there is no sight of them

She added: 'Surely someone knows something!'

The search area around Lakefield National Park (above) stretches for hundreds of kilometres north of Cooktown, covering vast areas of remote bushland and highway.

'There's a bit of concern for them,' Queensland cops admitted today. 'They're experienced campers but it's a vast area.'

A previous camper lost in the park was found by search teams 10m from a saltwater crocodile 'just waiting for him,' according to rescue helicopter pilot Darryl Humphreys.

The 30 year old had survived by eating tadpoles, grasshoppers and green ants and burying himself in the dirt to escape swarms of mosquitos while awaiting rescue.

The pair of friends had driven for five hours from Cairns in their silver Toyota Hilux ute (pictured) to reach the tropical bushland on May 22 and intended to stay for just one night.

Police believe the latest pair, from Cairns 400km away, are well-equipped but a spokesman admitted: 'In that sort of area, anything could have happened.'

The search area stretches for hundreds of kilometres north of Cooktown, covering vast areas of remote bushland and highway.

UPDATE: Police found the pair safe and well after they were spotted by a private helicopter in Lakefield National Park this morning.
Chinese firm operating Darwin port accuses Australian side of violating spirit of contract

Xinhua) 10:42, May 27, 2021

HONG KONG, May 26 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese firm running the Darwin port in northern Australia on Wednesday accused the Australian side, which is considering scrapping the port's lease agreement inked in 2015, of violating the spirit of contract.

During a press conference, Shandong Landbridge Group said that recent statements in Australia of revoking the lease agreement went against the principle of mutual trust in business cooperation and the company is mulling the use of legal means to protect its legitimate rights and interests.

The Australian Northern Territory government invited global investors to bid for a 99-year leasehold of operating the Darwin port in 2015. Landbridge won the bidding process and has secured the leasehold by paying 506 million Australian dollars (over 390 million U.S. dollars).

The firm said the related statements have caused negative impacts on Landbridge's normal business activities, international cooperation and reputation.

Over the past six years, the port has been developing steadily with continued investment by Landbridge. Its berths now can accommodate the largest cruise ships in the world. By 2020, the total tonnage of ships arriving at the port has reached 30 million tons.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
My Name is John Kalenzi, Im married to Joselyne Bivugire Kalenzi, and we have two children: a boy called David Kalenzi  17 years old and a girl called Esther Ineza Kalenzi  12 years old. I became Team Leader of African Enterprise Rwanda in 2008.

My normal day as a Team Leader of a local and growing para- church organisation is comprised of very many activities:

I wake up at 4:30 a.m. and pray with my wife Joselyne after reading a bible passage. From 5:20 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. I check emails and respond to the urgent ones, after which I prepare myself and then go to the office. I normally leave home at 6:30 a.m. and it is a 30 minutes drive from home to the office. I participate in the staff morning devotions from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. This enables me to provide spiritual oversight to the AE Staff. With affect from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., I meet AE staff and different outsiders like pastors and leaders or staff of different organizations who come to my office for one reason or another. 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., I check reports from heads of departments to ensure successful implementation of all projects run by AE Rwanda and maintain the culture of AE among all staff and projects. 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., I deal with office work that ensures efficiency and accountability, after which I address the challenges as they arise.

Time for lunch at AE Rwanda is from 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., so I share a meal with the staff and have some catch up and refreshing time, where we talk about different topics, and have some bit of fun. I use the biggest part of the afternoon  1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. to develop fundraising opportunities and cultivate new donor relationships which include, generating and reflecting on ministry ideas, meeting church leaders, writing concept notes, writing thank you notes, making phone calls to local supporters and the like. From 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., I respond to emails, scan whether administrative systems in place are adhered to, and then set objectives and plans for the next day. From 7:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. I travel home, where I join my family. After a short time of relaxation, we have dinner together, then evening devotions from around 9:20 pm to 9:50 pm and then head to bed.

The day I have described is a normal one, but there are many times when I am invited for meetings on a short notice, or get involved in an eventuality, which causes my plan not to run as prior arranged. During such cases, I must push some of the activities to the next most convenient time.

Current focus areas:

1. Mobilizing Rwandans to pray that the Lord will awaken the slumbering spirits in our nation so that they might find everything they are searching in Him.

2. Training 480 AEE staff and associates on some factors that contribute to effective personal evangelism.

3. Equip 1,200 faith leaders to fight Covid-19 in communities and support them with personal protective equipment.

4. We are responding in every community where we work in one form or another and our Covid-19 emergency response, aims to provide targeted support to reach at least 500,000 most vulnerable people including 260,000 children -focusing on situations of pre-existing vulnerability and fragility (in every community where we work, we are committed to both limiting the spread of Covid-19 and reducing its impact).

Prayer points:

Pray with AEE Rwanda Team Leader that:

 Gods presence would move greatly in AEE Rwanda ministry and touch lives.

 God would give AEE staff a heart for his ways and discernment to see his direction.

 God would give us opportunities to share his Gospel with others.

 God would mold our character into his likeness.

 Unsaved Rwandans would come to know the Lord, that their eyes would be opened to see the truth.

 Children of Rwanda will receive joy and hope as their tangible needs are met.

Join AEE Rwanda to pray for healing, provision, wisdom, and opportunities to serve.
Billionaire Robert Brockman may have to turn over his $15 million fishing compound in Colorado and $77.9 million in a Swiss bank account to federal prosecutors.

Brockman, 79, was indicted last year in what Bloomberg described as 'the biggest U.S. tax-evasion case ever against an individual' after he allegedly failed to report $2 billion in income to the Internal Revenue Service.

The Texas billionaire, former CEO of the software firm Reynolds & Reynolds, also allegedly used a foreign company he 'secretly controlled' to buy secondary debt in the company at a discount in 2009, the outlet reported.

Bloomberg obtained court filings from March that show the government is trying to seize the 143-acre property and fishing lodge on the Frying Pan River and a trove of cash in Switzerland's Mirabaud Bank tied to the fraud case.

Billionaire Robert Brockman may have to turn over his $15 million fishing compound in Colorado and $77.9 million in a Swiss bank account to federal prosecutors

The Frying Pan River, near Aspen, Colorado, is a world famous location for fly fishing known for producing giant rainbow and brown trout

The outlet reported that prosecutors in the United States first sought forfeiture of the Mirabaud account in October and that Swiss prosecutors have frozen more than $1 billion held in bank accounts belonging to Brockman.

The 42-page indictment against Brockman names two Colorado properties of interest in the case.

According to the indictment, Brockman paid $15 million to purchase the 'Mountain Queen' property located in Pitkin County on May 17, 2005.

He later spent another $15 million of funds allegedly obtained through debt fraud on the 'Frying Pan Canyon Ranch' in Pitkin County on December 16, 2010, according to the indictment.

Brockman allegedly spent another $8.2 million on renovations and improvements to the Frying Pan Canyon property in 2014.

It was not immediately clear if the asset forfeiture reported by Bloomberg also includes the Mountain Queen property or his Houston mansion.

Bloomberg obtained an asset-seizure affidavit filed by IRS special agent Ted Lair that alleges Brockman laundered some of his money through funds managed by billionaire Robert Smith's private equity firm Vista Equity Partners.

Smith has agreed to cooperate with prosecutors against Brockman after he admitted to illegally hiding his own money in offshore banks, the outlet reported.

Smith, the richest black person in America with a net worth about $7 billion, has also been ordered to pay $139 million in back taxes and penalties.

Brockman and Smith have a business relationship dating back to the late 1990s, according to documents filed in connection with Smith's non-prosecution agreement.

Brockman became an investor in Smith's private equity fund back in 2000, first with a $300 million commitment, and later increasing it to $1 billion.

Brockman, who has pleaded not guilty to 39 counts of tax evasion, wire fraud and money laundering, lives in this Houston, Texas mansion

Prosecutors say he owns a Houston mansion worth an estimated $8 million, an Aspen, Colorado ski cabin, a Bombardier private jet and a a 209-foot yacht (pictured)

As part of his non-prosecution agreement, Smith admitted to using a nominee trustee and corporate manager to hide his control in four off-shore companies.

Brockman, who has pleaded not guilty to 39 counts of tax evasion, wire fraud and money laundering, has argued in court documents that he can no longer stand trial because he has dementia.

Prosecutors, however, believe Brockman may be faking his mental decline.

Brockman was largely unknown outside of Houston before news of his indictment broke last year. His company Reynolds and Reynolds, which he led until the indictment, provides software for car dealerships.

His trial currently hinges on a mental competency hearing scheduled for June.

Authorities had been investigating Brockman over the tax fraud allegations for several years and prosecutors claim he found out about the probe as early as 2016.

Prosecutors allege that Brockman started seeking medical evaluations for his mental health shortly after a 2018 raid on his attorney's home in Bermuda, according to court documents obtained by the Wall Street Journal.

Fellow billionaire Robert Smith, who is the CEO of a private equity firm that aided in the alleged schemes, is cooperating with the investigation after turning against Brockman to avoid prosecution himself

Brockman allegedly laundered some of the fraud money through funds managed by Vista Equity Partners

A doctor found in March 2019 that Brockman had poor short-term recall. Prosecutors claim, however, that Brockman's doctors have a conflict of interest because they work with the Baylor College of Medicine, of which the billionaire has donated millions of dollars to over the years.

They also argue that Brockman continued to head his software company during this time despite his alleged mental decline. Court documents reveal he took a cognitive test late last year and had difficulties drawing a clock, with a doctor ruling he had 'moderate dementia'.

The case involving Brockman accuses him of hiding $2 billion in income from the IRS over two decades using a web of off-shore companies in Bermuda and St. Kitts and Nevis.

The indictment alleges Brockman appointed nominees to manage the off-shore entities for him as a means of hiding his involvement, saying he even went so far as to establish a proprietary encrypted email system and use code words such as 'Permit,' 'Red fish' and 'Snapper' to communicate.

The majority of his fortune is believed to be held in a trust in Bermuda that own most of his software company. Court documents show the trust has assets worth at least $7 billion.

Even though that wealth would likely see him ranked about 50th on the Forbes 400 list of billionaires, Brockman hasn't ever appeared on the list.

Besides the Colorado properties, prosecutors claim he owns a Houston mansion worth an estimated $8 million, a Bombardier private jet and a 209-foot yacht.

As the case against Brockman continues, his former associates and employees have painted a picture of him as a penny-pinching billionaire who believed the IRS unfairly went after taxpayers.

Brockman, who has a reputation for being litigious, would stay at budget hotels and ate frozen dinners on business trips.

He would buy used furniture for his offices and banned his employees from smoking so the company could save on health insurance.

At the time of the indictment, Reynolds & Reynolds issued a statement saying the allegations were outside Brockman's work with the company and that the company is not alleged to have participated in any wrongdoing.
The nurse has since had surgery on her knee and requires crutches to walk

Authorities are searching for the motorist who mowed down a mother pushing her young child in a pram in Melbourne's north-west.

The nurse, known as Sarah, was walking home from dinner in Ascot Vale on Sunday May 16 when a car allegedly smashed into her.

'My husband's face, he turned around and was like shouting at me to run,' she said to reporters on Wednesday.

'I turned and looked and it was too late.'

The nurse, known as Sarah, was walking home from dinner in Ascot Vale on Sunday May 16 when a car allegedly smashed into her

Sarah and her husband were walking along Mt Alexander Road at 8:45pm on Sunday when the incident. was pushing her two-year-old son home before the car came speeding up behind her

Sarah, 34, and her husband were walking along Mt Alexander Road at 8:45pm on Sunday when the incident occurred.

She was pushing her two-year-old son home before the car came speeding up behind her.

She was badly hurt in the crash, saying she experienced an 'unbelievable pain' in her leg.

Sarah has since had an operation on her leg and needs crutches to walk.

'There was no traffic and then all of a sudden I'd been hit by a car,' she said.

Her husband and son were unharmed in the accident.

Police are urging for anyone with dashcams or information to come forward as they look for the driver.

The 34-year-old nurse has had an operation on her leg and needs crutches to walk

Sarah, 34, and her husband were walking along Mt Alexander Road at 8:45pm on Sunday when the incident occurred

Witnesses say the car was a small dark hatchback or SUV.

'This car was well above the speed limit, probably double the speed limit,' Senior Sargeant Dean Pickering told Nine.

'Doesn't make a phone call, doesn't check if they're OK, just continues on.'

Anyone with any information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Private equity firms buying up care homes should face stringent tests before being able to 'extract dividends and profit', the boss of one of the biggest chains in the sector said last night.

Jeremy Richardson, chief executive of Four Seasons Health Care  which tumbled into administration in 2019 with a 625million debt pile  called for them to be regulated and subject to a code of conduct.

'Like any industry, there are good private equity investors and less good private equity investors,' said Mr Richardson, 50, who started out in private equity.

'I have no problem with private investment in social care and I have no problem with investors making a profit.

'But  and this is the big caveat  I don't think it is acceptable in something like care, which is part of our national infrastructure, for the profit to be made to the detriment or quality of care and investment in the assets.'

Private investors should have to undergo financial, care quality and asset investment tests before buying up the sector, said Mr Richardson, who has run the troubled Four Seasons chain of 180 homes since December 2019.

Judith Fielding (left) and Doris Fielding, pictured on Judith's wedding. Judith's mum Doris died after suffering from the substantial failings in care at Orchid View care home, West Sussex

He suggested that if a chain has a series of homes rated inadequate it would not be 'appropriate' to take dividends and profits out of the business.

The Mail is campaigning to highlight the growing problem of private equity firms snapping up a wide range of companies, with some 123 businesses worth 36billion sold off during the pandemic.

Labour health spokesman Liz Kendall said: 'The Daily Mail are absolutely right to be campaigning on this crucial issue.

'The consequences of getting the regulation of care homes wrong are appalling  for frail care home residents, their families and the taxpayer.'

Private equity firms started buying up homes in earnest two decades ago, seeing an opportunity in consolidating them into large groups with economies of scale.

Enid Trodden, on her wedding day to Brian Trodden in 1945. Lesley's mum Enid Trodden died after suffering from the substantial failings in care at Orchid View care home

Some eyed the vast amounts of property care groups owned, selling the homes for a profit and then leasing them back.

US private equity giant Blackstone sold off hundreds of the properties at Southern Cross, the country's largest care home chain, after it bought the group in 2004.

When it listed the group on the stock market in 2006, Blackstone  led by billionaire Stephen Schwarzman  made a 600million profit in two years.

Blackstone sold its holding but when the financial crisis hit, the group was unable to pay its landlords. It soon collapsed, leaving around 300,000 residents in limbo as landlords rushed to find new care home providers.

Two of the country's largest groups  HC-One and Care UK  are still in private equity hands, while several smaller groups have also been passed from one City investor to the next. For most, including Four Seasons  which was owned by the private equity firm Terra Firma until it went bust  their finances become more fragile with every change of ownership as successive buyout vultures try to squeeze out profits.

And for long-suffering residents paying hundreds of pounds every week for care, this has meant slipping standards and corners cut.

Former work and pensions secretary Baroness Altmann said: 'Time and again, it has been proven that private equity is not a secure business model to promise to house people for the rest of their lives.

'Financiers make huge amounts of money while people in care homes are often paying everything they have for services.

Enid Trodden, one of 19 elderly residents who died at Orchid View care home in Copthorne, West Sussex

'The Government must reform adult social care. I don't think private equity firms or hedge funds should have any role in delivering lifelong care for vulnerable people. Something has to change.'

Families of elderly residents at Four Seasons started to notice standards were slipping there three years ago. It had spent decades passing through the hands of various private equity owners.

By 2019, under the ownership of Guy Hands's firm Terra Firma, the business was in dire financial straits. Residents and their families soon picked up on the money troubles, as heart-breaking messages to the charity helpline Compassion in Care made clear.

The daughter of one previously happy elderly resident called the helpline saying: 'A lot of things seemed to be going wrong  laundry not being done, the food was not as good. Cheap and nasty sums it up.'

By 2019, Four Seasons and its then 322 homes were struggling with a 625million mountain of debt used to fund expansions.

Terra Firma planned to pay off loans using the private equity technique of cutting costs and ramping up fees. But it never managed to clear the debt and the chain fell into administration.

Since then, some homes have been passed on to new owners while the core is still being held by administrators who are looking for a buyer.

Four Seasons' founder Robert Kilgour, who first sold the chain to the private equity group Alchemy in 1999, said he 'wouldn't do that again' and described the way it was run down as 'obscene'.

Our mothers were used as cash cows at 'the worst care home in Britain' The daughters of residents who died after suffering abuse at a Southern Cross care home have hit out at private equity firms who use the elderly as 'cash cows'. Enid Trodden and Doris Fielding were among the 19 residents who passed away following years of neglect at 4,000-a-month Orchid View  dubbed 'Britain's worst care home'. A Serious Case Review was ordered after major failings were identified at the home in Copthorne, West Sussex, between 2009 and 2011. The damning report made more than 30 recommendations to prevent future 'institutionalised abuse'. Judith Charatan, 62, and Lesley Lincoln, 73, (right) have been campaigning for an inquiry into the home's failings for a decade. An inquest found call bells were often not answered or could not be reached and vulnerable residents were routinely left soiled and in pain. In a single night shift, staff made 28 medication errors. The home was rated 'good' by the regulator in 2010  a year before it was forced to close. Care UK, one of the UK's biggest providers, opened Francis Court on the premises in 2012. The last two Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspections in 2019 rated the home as 'requires improvement'. Judith Charatan, 62, and Lesley Lincoln, 73, have been campaigning for an inquiry into the home's failings for a decade. Mrs Charatan, whose 90-year-old mother Mrs Fielding suffered abuse at Orchid View, hit out at the 'greedy' private equity firms running care homes into the ground. 'The residents were treated like commodities. It was a profit-driven organisation and a lot of people have suffered as a result of that,' she told the Daily Mail. 'I don't think the private equity companies behind care home chains such as Southern Cross have been properly scrutinised and held to account. They've probably skipped off into the Bahamas and are having a whale of a time.' Mrs Charatan's mother was one of the last residents admitted to the home in June 2011. She lived there for two months before her health declined so rapidly she was admitted to hospital. It transpired her medication had been mismanaged and she hadn't been fed properly. She died in December 2011. Mrs Charatan said: 'I made the decision for her to go into that home thinking it would be wonderful. How companies can get away with treating people like that is beyond me.' Mrs Lincoln's 86-year-old mother Mrs Trodden was one of five residents who the inquest found died from natural causes 'attributed to neglect'. Mrs Trodden, who suffered with Parkinson's and dementia, moved to the home in September 2009. She died in October 2011. Mrs Lincoln was thrilled when her mother first moved to the 'beautiful, brand new home'. But within six weeks the cracks began to show. She would find her mother left sitting in her own urine and she would have 'rigid attacks' due to her medication not being administered properly. However, despite raising her concerns with Southern Cross and the CQC, no action was taken. 'Unbeknownst to us the place was folding. They ran out of food and basic things such as gloves  but they were still admitting people, using them as cash cows', Mrs Lincoln said. 'It's terrible. They can just pull everything out from under your feet  take the money from those residents, their entire pensions, and not give them the good care that they deserve. All I could do was make sure I was there every day to try and give her some part of the day that was good.' Advertisement

Ministers face grilling over fat-cat takeovers

By Martin Beckford for The Daily Mail

Ministers will face questions in Parliament over what they are doing to protect firms from private equity takeovers.

They will be grilled by a select committee later this year on whether plans to reform the business world will do enough to stop jobs being put at risk by unscrupulous buyers.

It comes amid growing concern in Parliament that customers and workers are losing out while private equity predators make a fortune buying up firms.

Darren Jones, chairman of the business, energy and industrial strategy committee, said last night: 'There have been too many examples of private equity owners buying important British businesses only to load them with debt, withdraw value and then leave workers, customers and high streets worse off when they walk away at the point of failure.

'Government reforms to audit, corporate governance and director responsibilities should give sufficient powers to the new regulator to take action in the future.'

His committee will question ministers after summer recess about a Department for Business White Paper aimed at restoring trust in business. Panned reforms will mean large privately owned UK firms, including those owned by private equity, will be given as much scrutiny as major publicly listed ones.

Directors will have to publish more information about the financial health of businesses and will face investigation by a new watchdog if they break audit and reporting rules.

Yesterday MPs and peers from across the political spectrum called on the Government to do more to stop firms falling victim to private equity in the first place as they backed the Mail's campaign highlighting the problem.

Tory MP Sir John Hayes said: 'I'm delighted the Daily Mail is shining a light in this area.

'It's easy to be complacent about who owns companies but Covid has taught us that globalisation has created dependencies and fragility that pose huge risks to our country and people.'

Crossbench peer Baroness Wheatcroft recently raised concerns in the Lords about the risks of care homes being sold to private equity owners. She told the Mail: 'The vulnerable people who enter care homes need to be assured of their financial stability. The private equity model is simply not appropriate.'

Gareth Thomas, chairman of the all-party parliamentary group on mutuals, highlighted the planned sale of LV=, the historic Liverpool Victoria insurance firm, to US investment giant Bain Capital.

He said: 'Ministers and regulators need to step in urgently to stop great British businesses such as LV= being gobbled up unnecessarily by private equity saviours.'

Tory peer Lord Blencathra recently tabled questions in Parliament about the number of veterinary practices being bought by private equity firms 'concerned with maximising profits' instead of animal welfare. Three of the six main chains of vets are owned by private equity.

Asked by the Mail if the Prime Minister had any concerns that so many British businesses have been bought by private equity during the pandemic, a No 10 spokesman said: 'We are committed to ensuring the UK remains open for business while protecting the livelihoods of British workers.'
The gunman - identified as Samuel Cassidy - opened fire a little before 7am local time at the yard run by the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority near the city's main airport

The man who who shot dead nine people at a California light rail yard on Wednesday suffered from bipolar disorder and was 'not mentally stable', according to two ex-girlfriends.

Samuel Cassidy, 57, opened fire at the at the Valley Transportation Authority yard in Santa Clara shortly before 7am, before he turned the gun on himself.

Cassidy worked in maintenance at VTA and his nine victims were all co-workers, police have confirmed. Their names have not been released.

According to officers, Cassidy set fire to his own home before carrying out the rampage. Officials have not revealed a motive for the mass shooting.

However, on Wednesday afternoon, a former partner of Cassidy's spoke with NBC Bay Area, claiming he suffered from mental health issues.

The ex - who has not been named - told NBC Bay Area that she and Cassidy dated for six months back in 2009 after meeting on Match.com.

She said Cassidy turned on her when she rejected his marriage proposal, telling him she didn't want to rush into a wedding.

'I was scared... I turned him down and he turned totally different,' she stated. 'He was angry, screaming, [he stole] my car.'

The ex also added that Cassidy said his job at VTA was 'stressful and that he 'complained about his boss'.

Meanwhile, The San Francisco Chronicle reports that another ex-girlfriend of Cassidy's filed court documents against him back in 2009. They came in response to a restraining order Cassidy had filed against her earlier.

In the documents, the woman accuses him of repeatedly trying to pressure her into having anal sex and of raping her once in 2008.

The woman further alleged Cassidy 'had major mood swings as a result of bipolar disorder, which worsened when he drank large amounts of alcohol'.

'He also played several mind games which he seems to enjoy,' she stated in the documents.

Tactical law enforcement officers move through the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) light-rail yard where a mass shooting occurred Wednesday

VTA workers are seen leaving work after the shooting on Wednesday morning

Cassidy's father James Cassidy, 88, answered the phone to DailyMail.com Wednesday and said: 'I'm sorry, I don't know what he might have been going through.'

He told The Daily Beast his son 'seemed completely himself' before the shooting, adding: 'He didn't talk about his job or politics. I just found out he was dead and his house on fire and all that a minute ago.'

The incident is the latest in a string of mass shootings this year.

On Wednesday, first reports of gunfire at the VTA light rail yard came at around 6:30am local time.

The sheriff had tweeted early Wednesday morning: 'Deputies currently on scene for an active shooter investigation in the area of 100 W. Younger Ave. SJ.

'Please stay away from the area. More info to follow.'

The shooting took place at a light rail facility that is next door to the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Department and across a freeway from the airport. The facility is a transit control center that stores trains and has a maintenance yard.

Seven victims died at the scene. Two patients were transported to Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, according to spokesperson Joy Alexiou. One person was pronounced dead upon arrival, and the other was in critical condition.

VTA spokesperson Brandi Childress said the building where the shooting took place required security access, adding: 'We ask for people's prayers.'

Emergency personnel respond to a shooting at a Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) facility on Wednesday

San Jose Bomb Squad technician and his team meet before entering the scene of the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority mass shooting

At least eight people were killed when a transit employee opened fire at a light rail yard in San Jose, California, on Wednesday morning, the county sheriff's office said

A law enforcement K-9 unit searches for evidence at the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) light-rail yard

Santa Clara County Sheriff's Deputy Russell Davis said at a news conference the gunman was also dead. The gunman was a Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) employee, he said

The shooting took place just before 7 a.m. Pacific Time at a light rail yard run by the VTA near the city's main airport

A bomb squad was searching the yard after 'at least one' explosive device was found, Davis said

VTA spokesperson Brandi Childress said the building where the shooting took place required security access, adding: 'It would have to be someone who either broke into this yard, or someone who has access. 'We ask for people's prayers'

Gunfire erupted Wednesday at a railyard in San Jose. 'A horrible tragedy has happened today and our thoughts and love go out to the VTA family,' Glenn Hendricks, the chairman of the VTA board, said at the news conference

The Valley Transportation Authority provides bus, light rail and other transit services throughout Santa Clara County, the most populated county in the Bay Area, authorities said.

Following reports the incident took place during a meeting of union members Amalgamated Transit Union International President John A. Costa said in statement: 'We are shocked and deeply saddened by the multiple fatalities and injuries at a shooting today at a VTA rail facility.

'Our hearts and prayers are with our sisters, brothers, and their families at ATU Local 265 in San Jose.'

Local branch, ATU Local 265, tweeted: 'Pray.'

Damage from a fire at the house of the suspect of a shooting is pictured

Emergency responders respond to a fire at the house of the suspect of a shooting

Police secure the scene of a mass shooting at a rail yard run by the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority in San Jose

The shooting took place around 6:30 a.m. at a light rail facility next door to the sheriff's department and across a freeway from the airport. The facility is a transit control center that stores trains and has a maintenance yard

The VTA provides bus, light rail and other transit services throughout Santa Clara County, the largest in the Bay Area and home to Silicon Valley

One Valley Transportation Authority employee's mother told KTVU that the shooting occurred during a union meeting

Glenn Hendricks, the chairman of the VTA board, said the shooting took place in a part of the yard where workers do maintenance on vehicles, and was not in the yard's operations and control center

San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo tweeted: 'Our hearts are pained for the families of those we have lost in this horrific shooting. In the @VTA family, we mourn our lost coworkers and pray for the recovery of those being treated.'

'These are, and were, essential workers,' Mayor Liccardo later said at a news conference.

'These VTA employees helped us get through this horrific pandemic. They were showing up everyday to operate light rail and buses to ensure people could still go about their lives in the middle of the challenge of the pandemic. And they were taking risks with their own lives in doing so.'

He said he was aware of news reports of a fire at the house of the man the authorities believed to be the shooter.

'That is certainly the information that I have, is that there was a fire at the shooter's home, there was nobody found inside the home, thank God,' Liccardo told CNN affiliate KGO in an interview. 'This is every mayors worst nightmare.'

Multiple fire department, police and bomb squad vehicles were still parked outside the suspect's house, along a cul-de-sac in southeastern San Jose, hours after the shooting.

An explosives-detecting robot sat in the street near the home while two bomb squad technicians entered the ranch-style house.

Special agents from the FBI and the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were responding to the shooting crime scene, officials said.

Valley Transportation Authority workers wait out side the Santa Clara Sheriffs offices as police secure the scene

San Jose Bomb Squad technician prepares to enter the scene of the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority shooting

BI Special Agent in Charge, San Francisco, Craig Fair, left, and Santa Clara County Sheriff Laurie Smith, right, speak to the media as police and investigators continue to work at the scene of a workplace shooting at the San Jose Valley Transportation Authority light rail yard

The VTA operates three rail lines; it also runs 70 bus lines in the area.

Cassidy had worked for the VTA since at least 2012, according to the public payroll and pension database known as Transparent California. His position from 2012 to 2014 was listed as a mechanic. After that, he was a substation maintainer, the records said.

Last year, he earned a salary of $102,000, plus benefits and $20,000 in overtime, the records showed.

Local television station KTVU-TV reported that Cassidy had been married for 10 years and divorced in 2019, citing an interview with his ex-wife, who reportedly told the station she had little contact with him over the past decade.

'A horrible tragedy has happened today, and our thoughts and love go out to the VTA family,' VTA Chairman Glenn Hendricks told a news conference.

Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen said victims' grief-stricken families sat huddled together, holding hands and crying, after learning they had lost a loved one, describing the scene inside a county building.

'They're just sitting and holding hands and crying,' Rosen said. 'It's terrible. It's awful. It's raw. People are learning they lost their husband, their son, their brother.' He said about 100 people were inside the family reunification center.

Outside the scene, Michael Hawkins told The Mercury News that he was waiting for his mother, Rochelle Hawkins, who had called him from a co-worker's phone to assure him that she was safe.

When the shooting started, 'she got down with the rest of her coworkers' and dropped her cellphone, Michael Hawkins told the newspaper. Rochelle Hawkins did not see the shooter, and she was not sure how close she had been to the attacker, her son said.

A woman leaves the scene of a shooting at a Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) facility on Wednesday

'A horrible tragedy has happened today, and our thoughts and love go out to the VTA family,' VTA Chairman Glenn Hendricks told a news conference. Outside the scene, Michael Hawkins told The Mercury News that he was waiting for his mother, Rochelle Hawkins, who had called him from a co-worker's phone to assure him that she was safe

California Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a tweet that his office was 'in close contact with local law enforcement and monitoring this situation closely.' He later spoke at a press conference at the scene.

'Our hearts go out to the victims and their families,' White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters.

The White House said: 'The President has been briefed on the mass shooting and the tragic loss of life in San Jose by his Homeland Security Advisor, Liz Sherwood-Randall. The White House continues to monitor the situation and remains in close contact with local officials to offer any assistance as needed.'

A spate of mass shootings have unfolded as the country has started to emerge from the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In March, eight people, including six women of Asian descent, were shot dead in a string of attacks at day spas in and around Atlanta, and less than a week later, 10 people were killed at a supermarket in Boulder, Colorado.

A database compiled by The Associated Press, USA Today and Northeastern University that tracks every mass killing over the last 15 years shows that the San Jose attack is the 15th mass killing so far in 2021, all of them shootings.

Eighty-six people have died in the shootings, compared with 106 for all of 2020. It is the sixth mass killing in a public place in 2021. The database defines mass killings as four people dead, not including the shooter, meaning the overall toll of gun violence is much higher when adding in smaller incidents.

San Jose, a city with about 1 million residents, lies at the heart of Silicon Valley, a global center of technological innovation and home of some of America's biggest tech companies.
Students at a Sydney university have watched on in shock as a man was arrested by two police officers in the centre of the library.

The handcuffed man dressed in a t-shirt and jeans can be seen being escorted through Macquarie University's library in North Ryde, in a video shared to TikTok on Wednesday.

'Imagine being arrested at the university library. I have seen it all,' the user captioned the video.

Shocked uni students watched on as the man was escorted through the library by two police officers (pictured)

The clip has been liked by nearly 60,000 people and received more than 1,000 comments in less than a day.

Replying to comments, the TikTok user revealed a few more details about the arrest.

'That guy's reaction on the table in front of you,' one person said.

'That was one of the guys that this dude went off at for literally whispering,' she alleges.

'The security guards were telling me he allegedly almost started a punch up with some people.

'No joke, this is the first time I have stepped foot in the library all semester... instead of going to the campus common and this happens'.

Police said the man was arrested after police were called by security but no charges followed.

'The man was later released without charge. There was an incident involving the man and security, but there was a misunderstanding,' a spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia.
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NHS bosses have said the next seven days will be 'crucial' in assessing whether Covid jabs work, with all eyes on hospitalisation data as daily cases yesterday passed 3,000 for the first time in a month.

Infections rose by 18 per cent yesterday compared to last Wednesday, while hospital admissions rose 11 per cent compared with the previous seven days, according to official figures.

Though increasing cases are usually followed by rises in hospitalisations and deaths, officials are hoping that the jabs roll-out will break that link after just nine deaths were recorded on Wednesday.

Chris Hopson, chief executive of NHS Providers which represents health service trusts, said that hospitals in Indian variant hotspots in England were seeing cases rise steadily. But they were not increasing 'at an alarming rate', as he said: 'The next seven days will be crucial, and trusts will be monitoring the data closely'.

He added that hospital admissions appeared to be of patients who had not been vaccinated, explaining: 'This hammers home just how important it is to have a vaccination'.

Britain's mammoth vaccine drive continued at full steam ahead, with 387,987 top-up jabs dished out across the country - taking the UK's number of fully vaccinated adults to more than 23.6 million.

Another 186,147 first doses were also administered, with 38.4 million adults - or 72.9 per cent - having had at least one jab. England's roll-out was today expanded to 30 and 31-year-olds.

Observing the rise in cases, Neil Ferguson of Imperial College London - dubbed 'Professor Lockdown' because of his role in the Government's handling of the pandemic - said the increase had been anticipated.

Though he suggested that restrictions could be extended beyond June 21, he also reassured that the country's jabs roll-out meant the UK is in a 'much better place' than during the second wave in December.

The professor also suggested the country could cope if the Indian variant was proven to only be 20 to 30 per cent more transmissible - which Sage scientists have argued is feasible.

Yesterday he said: 'We always expected to see case numbers rise as we relax and that's sort of built into the plan. We can cope with that. It's just if they're rising too quickly, then that would be a problem.

'It's not about how cases rise, it's about how quickly they're rising. And in particular, are we seeing evidence of a rapid rise in hospitalisations? If we start seeing, for instance, case numbers doubling every ten to 14 days and hospitalisations following the same track, that would be of concern.'

Figures released by the Office for National Statistics yesterday revealed more than three quarters of adults in England would have tested positive for antibodies against coronavirus in the week beginning May 3. Antibodies can be prompted by prior infection or by vaccination.

But experts said the levels did not indicate the country had herd immunity to Covid, with children still unvaccinated, and new and more transmissible variants cropping up.

The ONS estimated 75.9 per cent of adults in England would have tested positive for antibodies in the week beginning May 3, 76.6 per cent in Wales, 68.6 per cent in Scotland and 75 per cent in Northern Ireland.

In other coronavirus developments:

Dominic Cummings branded the PM 'unfit for the job' in an epic seven-hour evidence session with MPs;

He condemned the Government's 'disastrous' coronavirus response and said thousands died needlessly;

Former No10 aide called Matt Hancock a serial liar who should have been sacked for 'criminal behaviour'

Three out of four people in England now have antibodies against Covid, a major surveillance study revealed;

Covid deaths in second wave were up to five times higher in Bangladeshi Brits than white adults in England;

Britons going to France will have to quarantine for seven days and provide negative test due to variant fears.

Daily infections (3,180) spiked by 18 per cent compared to last Wednesday's figure, reaching their highest level since April 12 (3,568). But deaths remained in single figures, with nine fatalities today up slightly on the three posted last Wednesday

Chris Hopson, chief executive of NHS Providers which represents health service trusts, said that hospitals in Indian variant hotspots in England were seeing cases rise steadily. Neil Ferguson of Imperial College London - dubbed 'Professor Lockdown' because of his role in the Government's handling of the pandemic - said the increase had been anticipated

Britain's mammoth vaccine drive continued at full steam ahead, with 387,987 top-up jabs dished out across the country yesterday. It takes the UK's number of fully vaccinated adults to more than 23.6million

Under-21s may be more likely to catch the Indian Covid variant, Professor Lockdown warns Under-21s may be more likely to catch the Indian Covid variant, one of the Government's top scientific advisers warned today. 'Professor Lockdown' Neil Ferguson said there was a 'hint' in the data that younger people are more vulnerable to getting infected with the mutant strain. The SAGE epidemiologist, who offered no evidence to back his claim, claimed it was 'impossible' to tell whether it was a biological effect of the virus evolving. He admitted it was possible the figures were skewed by the 'seeding of infection' in schools and colleges. But another scientist discussing the threat of the Indian variant said reports of it spreading quicker in the young should be taken 'seriously because thats the first sign that you have a problem'. Professor Ravi Gupta, a microbiologist at Cambridge University, said: 'Often if you wait too long for the right data its too late.' He spoke alongside Professor Lockdown at a German media briefing today. Discussing the threat of the Indian variant to hopes of returning to normality next month, Professor Ferguson said said there was signs it was affecting children more than other strains. He told a German briefing for science journalists: 'Theres a hint in the data that under-21s are slightly more likely to be infected with this variant compared with other variants in recent weeks in the UK. 'Whether it reflects a change in the biology or reflects whats called founder effects and the context  the people who came into the country with the virus and then seeding of infection in certain schools and colleges  thats impossible to resolve at the moment.' But Professor Ferguson provided no figures to back up his claim and stressed there was no suggestion it causes more severe illness in youngsters. Addressing the same topic, Professor Gupta said: 'I do think we should take these reports [of it spreading more quickly in the young] seriously because thats the first sign that you have a problem. 'Often if you wait too long for the right data its too late. Hopefully the countries where theyre seeing this will be studying it in a kind of rigorous way so that we can get that information.' Advertisement

Government advisers sounded the alarm about the Indian variant last month before it became the UK's dominant strain, saying it may be up to 50 per cent more infectious than the Kent variant.

But scientists have since offered more optimism, believing the true figure to be around half of the initial estimate. Rigorous analysis has also shown vaccines still work against the strain.

Hospitalisations and deaths are bound to creep up as restrictions are eased - but jabs should stop them rising at the same speed as positive tests because the mammoth inoculation drive has broken the once impenetrable link between infection and serious illness.

Admissions have crept up over the past month in Bolton, the UK's current Covid hotspot where the Indian strain is running rife. But experts say the figures are promising because they are lower than predicted, sparking hopes the town 'may not see such a dramatic surge in hospitalisations'.

Discussing the threat of the Indian variant to hopes of returning to normality next month, Professor Ferguson said it all depended on how much easier the variant spread.

He told a German briefing for science journalists: 'It's a matter of degree. If you hypothesise a situation where the virus is 60 per cent more transmissible then you could see a third wave the size we have just come out of - but if it's 20 to 30 per cent it will be much lower.

'We can cope with a certain level of increased transmissibility and still continue with the roadmap but if it's higher than that we have to reconsider.

'So the road map the UK is adopting with the context of a high level of vaccine coverage of gradually reopening is robust to a certain level of increase in transmissibility of the virus, and a certain limited level of immune escape of evading the vaccines, but only a certain amount.'

But Professor Ferguson added: 'If it goes beyond those levels, then we need to reconsider the rate of reopening and maybe slow the next step.

'I think we're continuing to evaluate data. I think it's actually too early to say whether we will be able to go ahead with what was planned in the UK in mid June and the next step or whether the fourth stage of relaxation will need to be postponed or indeed, in the worst case, measures need to be tightened up.

'We're getting more and more data every week, but we hope to be in a position to be more definitive about these answers in the next two to three weeks.'

When asked about whether the variant was more dangerous for children, Professor Ferguson said there was signs it was affecting children more than other strains.

He said: 'Theres a hint in the data that under-21s are slightly more likely to be infected with this variant compared with other variants in recent weeks in the UK.

'Whether it reflects a change in the biology or reflects whats called founder effects and the context - the people who came into the country with the virus and then seeding of infection in certain schools and colleges - thats impossible to resolve at the moment.'

But Professor Ferguson provided no figures to back up his claim and stressed there was no suggestion it causes more severe illness in youngsters.

Addressing the same topic, Professor Gupta said: 'I do think we should take these reports [of it spreading more quickly in the young] seriously because thats the first sign that you have a problem.

'Often if you wait too long for the right data its too late. Hopefully the countries where theyre seeing this will be studying it in a kind of rigorous way so that we can get that information.'

NHS figures showed occupancy at Bolton's major NHS trust fell yesterday, despite the rapid spread of the Indian variant.

Some 41 beds were taken up by infected patients at the Royal Bolton Hospital yesterday, down from 44 the day before, a Health Service Journal reporter tweeted.

Experts told MailOnline the figures show the virus is clearly not spiralling rapidly despite occupancy having tripled since the start of May - when just 13 Covid patients were being treated.

Covid hospitalisations may not be spiralling out of control in Bolton, according to official NHS figures that show occupancy at the town's major NHS trust fell yesterday despite the rapid spread of the Indian variant

The infections heat map from DHSC dashboard for Bolton shows in January the age rates increased pretty much across all age groups at the same time though in September there was a gradual increase from the younger to older age groups. 'This heat map shows the continuing lower rate in older age groups compared to previous waves

Infections are currently relatively low among people aged 60 and over, most of whom will have been vaccinated, in Bolton. Just 61.5 per 100,000 people in the age range are currently infected with Covid  seven times lower than the infection rate in the general population of the town (567.9)

Protection is similar across the different countries within the UK and in different regions within England, the report shows. The highest figure was in Wales, where 76.6 per cent of people were positive for antibodies, and the lowest was in Scotland with 68.6 per cent

Test results show that antibody levels are highest in the older age groups, with almost total coverage in the elderly, with slightly lower levels in the middle-aged groups who were later to get the vaccines, and significantly lower in young adults who have not yet been mass vaccinated

Super mutant coronavirus variants may emerge, expert warns Coronavirus is going to do 'weird' things going forward, and 'super mutant viruses' may emerge, an expert has warned. Professor Ravi Gupta, professor of clinical microbiology at the University of Cambridge, said that while this would not necessarily be a bad thing, the virus would try to become more efficient at transmission as more people are protected. He added that coronavirus is unpredictable and we should not be overconfident at any stage. Asked about how to prepare for future variants, Prof Gupta told a press briefing: 'I think that we have good vaccines, now we need to keep the pressure on vaccine designers, manufacturers to adapt vaccines.' He added: 'Secondly, the virus is going to do some weird things. I mean, this is just the beginning. 'I think it's going to recombine, you're going to get super mutant viruses, I believe. 'But that's not not necessarily a terrible thing, but the virus is going to do very unexpected things because the amount of pressure on it is going to be severe, so it will adapt. 'We know that people still get chronic infections and that's how this all happens in general. 'It's hard to say what is going to happen, but the virus is going to find ways of becoming more infectious  you can see that already, when it's under pressure it will try and be more efficient in transmission so that it can achieve the job with fewer virus particles.' Referring to some of the mutations seen in the variant first detected in India, the expert said they are 'just the beginning' and that there will be further changes to the virus, not only for antibody escape but to increase transmissibility. Advertisement

Professor Paul Hunter, an infectious disease expert at the University of East Anglia, said hospitalisations are currently lower than they would have been predicted based on case numbers a fortnight ago and if 'this pattern continues ... we may not see such a dramatic surge in hospitalisations'.

He said: 'It's early days but the number of hospitalisations in Bolton is lower than one would have predicted from the number of cases being reported over the past couple of weeks.

'Part of the reason for this is that cases, so far at least, are predominantly in in the under 50s who are rather less likely to be admitted to hospital.

'So it looks like in Bolton at least older people are not catching Covid with as great a frequency as younger people because of the vaccine. So because [there are] fewer older people we see fewer hospitalisations.

'There will also be an effect of the vaccine on reducing the need for hospitalisation in people who do get an infection whatever their age, but it is difficult to disentangle this from age at present.' He added that scientists will 'know more in a couple of weeks'.

And Professor David Livermore, a medical microbiologist at the University of East Anglia, told MailOnline the stable hospitalisation rate in Bolton bodes well for the future.

He said: 'Nationally - and Bolton doesn't look exceptional - more than 70 per cent of people now have some immunity, owing to vaccination or to prior infection.

'This means it'll be impossible for the virus to get serious traction, as it did previously, especially given that the vaccine is effective against the Indian variant.

'What I think will happen is little sputtering clusters largely in unvaccinated households but [there will be] no major expansion this time.'

It comes as data from a major Government surveillance study today revealed three out of four people in England now have antibodies against Covid.

Updated figures from the Office for National Statistics showed 76 per cent of adults had signs of immunity either from past infection or inoculation, in the week ending May 3.

The number - an estimate based on random blood testing of around 20,000 adults - shows the continuous rise of population protection, which top scientists and ministers believe will squash any third outbreak and slash the numbers of people getting severe Covid and dying in future.

Antibodies, which are virus-specific immune substances made to block infections, are only detected in people who have had Covid in the past or who have had a vaccine - this is now a majority of people in the UK.

A total of 38.2 million people in Britain have had at least one dose and 23.2 million have been fully vaccinated with both, Government figures show.

Coverage with antibodies is higher in older people, who were the first to get jabs, with 92 per cent or more of over-65s testing positive for immunity in the ONS survey. It is highest in over-80s, among whom 98 per cent of people have some degree of protection from the virus.

In most cases the antibodies are expected to stop people from getting seriously ill or dying if they catch the coronavirus. In some people they will also completely prevent infection and stop them spreading the illness.

Protection is similar across the different countries within the UK and in different regions within England, the report shows, although vaccine uptake is lower than average in London - but antibody levels are still high, showing more people have been infected.

The report comes as the NHS opened up its vaccine programme to 30 and 31-year-olds with vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi promising the immunisation drive was heading for a 'big' fortnight.

He told MPs his 'absolute focus' was that the campaign continued at pace because 'the faster we can move the vaccination programme, the sooner we can end those restrictions'.
Billionaire property tycoon 'high-rise' Harry Triguboff plans to supersize apartments to cash in on office-free life - just days after he called people working from home 'parasites'.

Australia's biggest apartment block developer says he will now be building units up to four bedrooms in size to let families turn the extra space into home offices.

And he says he'll also include dedicated offices areas in his apartment blocks too as the pandemic hangover forever changes what families now look for in a home.

The change of heart comes just a week after Mr Triguboff insisted work from home 'parasites' must return to office life or else it would kill Sydney's economic recovery.

Office workers abandoned the city centre during the enforced COVID-19 lockdowns, sparking the work from home revolution. (Picture posed by a model)

The 88-year-old told an Urban Taskforce industry breakfast that employees are only 'working half the time' at home.

'We have to also stop this work from home,' Mr Triguboff said. 'They should stop being parasites - they have to work.'

The comments were slammed by two-thirds of Daily Mail readers who voted in our online poll and condemned the multi-billionaire as living in the past.

This week though Mr Triguboff now accepts the change will be permanent and is set to revamp his architects' blueprints to adapt to the new reality.

Office workers abandoned the city centre during the enforced COVID-19 lockdowns, sparking the work from home revolution.

But families working remotely have faced cramped conditions with workstations squeezed into everyday life at home.

Now the billionaire founder of apartment developers Meriton Group sees a chance to sell even bigger homes to Aussies instead.

'People have rebelled, they don't want to travel two hours to work and two hours back any more,' he told Australian Financial Review.

Property tycoon Harry Triguboff (pictured with wife Rhonda) will be supersizing apartments in future and routinely adding more bedrooms to be turned into home office spaces.

Mr Triguboff believes four bedroom units in his high-rise blocks (pictured) will see higher demand in future as families choose to dedicate entire rooms to work from home offices.

'So I will build apartments a bit bigger for them and I think I will have offices in my developments too.

'People need units in close proximity to their workplace.'

Mr Triguboff believes four bedroom apartments will see higher demand in future as families choose to dedicate entire rooms to work from home offices.

One or two bedrooms could be converted to office spaces to allow families to continue to work from home for at least part of the week.

Dr Denise Goodwin from research unit BehaviourWorks Australia at Monash University says work life has changed forever.

She believes most people would like to work from home for about three days a week to cut down time lost by commuting and giving more flexibility to family life.

'Moving forward, we should have new ways of working,' Dr Goodwin told The New Daily.

'We've been stuck in this era of "get up, catch the train, go to work, catch the train home" for a long, long time.

'There's no reason why we shouldn't be looking at different ways of working. There's a big opportunity here, but it's got to be done right.'
The move could pave the way for a 'fairer working life' for millions of workers

It means that drivers will have the right to choose if, when and where they drive

Under the collective bargaining agreement, the GMB union will represent Uber's 70,000 drivers in the UK

Ride-hailing giant Uber announced a 'groundbreaking' agreement with one of Britiain's biggest trade unions to boost the rights of the firm's drivers.

Under the collective bargaining agreement, the GMB union will represent Uber's 70,000 drivers in the UK in a move which could pave the way for a 'fairer working life' for millions of workers.

The deal means that the drivers will have the right to choose if, when and where they drive.

It marks the first time a ride-hailing company in the UK has formally recognised a trade union and entered into a collective bargaining agreement with them.

Ride-hailing giant Uber announced a 'groundbreaking' agreement with one of Britiain's biggest trade unions to boost the rights of the firm's drivers (Stock image)

The agreement follows changes made earlier this year guaranteeing drivers at least the national living wage, holiday pay and a pension plan.

Earlier this year the Supreme Court dismissed Uber's appeal against a landmark employment tribunal ruling that its drivers should be classed as workers with access to the minimum wage and paid holidays.

Under the agreement, the GMB said it will work with Uber on a number of issues, including pay, pensions, discretionary benefits, and safety.

GMB national officer Mick Rix said: 'This groundbreaking deal between GMB and Uber could be the first step to a fairer working life for millions of people.

'History has been made. This agreement shows gig economy companies don't have to be a wild west on the untamed frontier of employment rights.

'When tech private hire companies and unions work together like this, everyone benefits, bringing dignified, secure employment back to the world of work.

'We now call on all other operators to follow suit.'

Jamie Heywood, Uber's regional general manager for Northern and Eastern Europe, said: 'Whilst Uber and GMB may not seem like obvious allies, we've always agreed that drivers must come first, and today we have struck this important deal to improve workers' protections.

'Uber is the only major player in the industry to provide drivers with a national living wage guarantee, holiday pay and a pension, and this historic agreement means that Uber will be the first in the industry to ensure that its drivers also have full union representation.'

TUnder the collective bargaining agreement, the GMB union will represent Uber's 70,000 drivers in the UK in a move which could pave the way for a 'fairer working life' for millions of workers (Stock image)

Andy McDonald, shadow employment rights and protections secretary, said: 'This recognition deal is testament to the dedicated work of the GMB union in fighting for better terms and conditions for workers, and Uber has set an example that companies across the gig economy should follow.

'This deal is good news for Uber drivers and shows the importance of trade unions in improving living standards, but there are still millions of workers in the gig economy who are without basic rights and protections, with no voice in the workplace who must not be abandoned by the Government.

'Following the Supreme Court ruling, the Government must change the law to ensure that all gig economy workers receive full employment rights.'

The GMB said it will now be able to represent up to 70,000 Uber drivers across the UK.

TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady said: 'This landmark agreement is a huge breakthrough and will give Uber drivers a real voice at work.

'The GMB deserve massive credit for their tireless campaigning, but this deal is just the start.

'Unions won't rest until platform companies across the gig economy agree to work with their staff on improving pay and conditions.'

Uber and other app-based gig economy companies have been facing pressure across Europe to reform labor models that are often blamed for precarious jobs and low salaries.

The GMB is more than 100 years old and represents 620,000 U.K. workers. Another group that led the legal challenge against Uber in the Supreme Court, the App Drivers & Couriers Union, greeted the announcement cautiously.

'Overall, this is a step in the right direction, but there are significant obstacles in the way of ADCU reaching a similar agreement,' including disagreement with the way Uber calculates minimum wage and holiday pay, it said.

The ADCU said it also has concerns about Uber's motivations, and said it's worried that the company is seeking to use the 'appearance of blunt collective bargaining agreements' to weaken the power of workers rather than strengthen them.
A man who was rescued from a snowdrift in the Rocky Mountains in 1982 after signaling for help has been charged in the cold case killings of two women he allegedly murdered just hours before his own salvation.

Alan Lee Phillips, 70, was arrested for the cold case murders in March but has since been charged with the murder, kidnapping and assault of two women, KUSA reported.

Phillips, then 30, was rescued on January 6, 1982 after a local sheriff on a United Airlines flight to California spotted him flashing 'SOS' in Morse Code with his truck's headlights as the plane flew over Guanella Pass.

Harold E. Bray, the former Jefferson County Sheriff, alerted the flight's captain of the message - who radioed down to officials on the ground, the Washington Post reported.

Alan Lee Phillips, pictured in 2021 left, has been charged with the murder, kidnapping and assault of two women just hours before he was rescued from a snowdrift in 1982. He is pictured right in the 1980s

Barbara 'Bobbie' Jo Oberholtzer is pictured before her 1982 murder while she was hitch-hiking in Colorado

Annette Schnee is pictured before her 1982 murder while she was hitch-hiking in Colorado

Dave Montoya, then the fire chief in Clear Creek County, recalled rescuers trudging up the 10,000-foot mountain pass in -20 degree temperatures to rescue Phillips - whose pickup truck had been caught in a snowdrift.

The next day, the body of Barbara Oberholtzer, 29, was found at Hoosier Pass - not far from Guanella Pass - after she went missing from Breckenridge. The body of Annette Schnee, 22, was found six months later.

Oberholtzer and Schnee were said to have been separately hitchhiking home when they were allegedly abducted and shot to death. Both women worked at the Rocky Mountains' Tenmile Range.

Oberholtzer's family found her body in a snow drift just south of Breckenridge on Hoosier Pass. Schnee's body was found by a boy who stumbled upon her body, fully clothed, in a creek near Fairplay.

'We ended up picking up the guy straight out of hell,' Montoya said.

The daring rescue and the cold case murders had not been tied together until genetic genealogy revealed Phillips as the primary suspect in the cold case murders.

The rescue was the 'craziest thing' he had ever heard of, Montoya told KUSA.

'Sure as heck, there he was in his little pickup, and he saw me and said, 'Oh, God, I'm saved',' Montoya said.

'He said he got drunk and decided to drive home. And I said, 'You came up over the pass?' And he said, 'Well, it seemed like a good idea.' I thought, how in the heck did this guy get so lucky, for all the stuff to fall into place?'

Montoya said he found Phillips with a large bruise on one side of his face. Phillips allegedly told him he stepped out of his truck to relieve himself when he was blinded by the snow and slammed headfirst into the corner of the truck.

'He got his mercy, he got saved, he got his life saved, he didn't die up there, but he did bad things before that and he's got to pay for them,' Montoya said.

A case file photo shows the crime scene where Bobbie Jo Oberholtzer's body was found on January 7, 1982

Evidence photos show the partial contents of a backpack belonging to Annette Schnee

Annette Schnee was found with both shoes on, but wearing one orange bootie sock on her left foot

Annette Schnee was found with both shoes on, but wearing a long striped sock on her right foot

The second orange sock had been found six months earlier at the Oberholtzer crime scene

Oberholtzer's bloodstained wool glove, and a bloodstained tissue, were found near her body

Phillips, a father of three, had been living behind a popular rest area off Interstate 70 in Dumont - just 20 miles from where he was rescued - at the time of his arrest.

Court records show Phillips is being held in the Park County Jail and he is scheduled to appear in court on September 13 for a preliminary hearing.

Park County Sheriff Tom McGraw told The Denver Post in March that he was 'not shocked' that Phillips still lived in the area.

He said Phillips had been under surveillance when he was arrested in a planned traffic stop without incident.

Schnee's mother, 88-year-old Eileen Franklin, had been holding onto some hope that someone would come forward with more information after her family endured '39 years of hell,' she told KMGH-TV.

'I thought there'd be no closure. I thought maybe I'd be gone before I had closure to this case. I'm ready to go when it's my time now,' she said.

She noted in a statement that the case had been featured in episodes of the hit true crime and investigation series Unsolved Mysteries, On the Case with Paula Zahn, and Sensing Murder over the years - thanking the TV teams for their assistance.

An evidence photo shows Oberholtzer's backpack and some of the contents, which were found near her body

A pair of 18-inch zip-ties were found on one of Oberholtzer's wrists suggesting that someone had attempted to bind her

The second of Annette Schnee's long striped socks was found in the pocket of her blue hooded sweatshirt

Oberholtzer's key ring, with a metal hook defensive weapon made for her by her husband, was found in the parking lot at the summit of Hoosier Pass

Among the items found in Annette Schnee's backpack was a photograph of a man who has never been identified

Evidence was found throughout Colorado pertaining to both murders

Oberholtzer's husband Jeff said in a statement after Phillips' arrest that he is 'finally in the hands of the judicial system.'

He said he hopes the arrest will 'bring closure and peace to this hideous nightmare for myself, along with all the lives he has horribly affected by his actions.'

Unsolved Mysteries noted in its 1991 episode that Jeff Oberholtzer had once been viewed as the 'primary suspect' by law enforcement working the case.

Police noted to Unsolved Mysteries at the time that a single orange sock was found near Oberholtzer's body and backpack that belonged to her.

Police found Schnee wearing the other orange sock when her body was discovered six months later, with Jeff Oberholtzer's business card in her wallet.

Former Colorado Bureau of Investigations Agent Jim Hardtke, who investigated the case, said that Jeff Oberholtzer initially denied knowing Schnee when asked about his connection to her.

'It was several days later, after seeing her picture in the newspaper, that he came to me and said that he did know Annette and he gave her a business card,' Hardtke told Unsolved Mysteries.

Annette Schnee is pictured in an undated photo

Jeff Oberholtzer claimed he had once picked up Schnee while she was hitchhiking but had never saw or heard from her again.

He later took and passed a polygraph test and was determined to have a 'rock solid alibi,' clearing him as a suspect in the investigation.

The cases remained unsolved for decades while Schnee's family hired retired Denver homicide detective Charlie McCormick as a private investigator. He remained involved investigating the case for the next 32 years.

'We had the leads of two or three serial killers in Montana and Idaho, so we spent a lot of time researching and going there,' McCormick told KUSA.

He added during a news conference that defining his emotions after hearing the news that the suspect had finally been found has 'been hard to do.'

'I never thought I would see the day. It's been a long haul,' he said in March.

Oberholtzer's daughter Jackie Vucas Walker said in a statement obtained by KMGH-TV that she can 'rest knowing justice will be served.

'I have lived with a monster in my mind since I was 11 years old, and now I can rest knowing justice will be served,' she said.
A team of paleontologists have uncovered the bones of a dinosaur in the middle of the Australian outback.

The experts from the Eromanga Natural History Museum started digging up the bones last week in Eromanga, in south-west Queensland, and have since uncovered the remains of a dinosaur estimated to be 98 million-years-old.

While the team are yet to identify which kind of species the dinosaur may be, they've said it's likely it could be a new kind altogether.

Corey Richards, the operations manager for the museum, told Daily Mail Australia the remains were a very exciting find for the team.

The experts from the Eromanga Natural History Museum started digging up the bones last week in Eromanga, in south-west Queensland, and have since uncovered the remains of a dinosaur estimated to be 98 million-years-old

'This particular site had a large amount of fossils scattered across the surface - spread across as much as 50 metres,' he said.

'The main excitement is we don't know what type of dinosaur it is but we assume its a sauropod which is a plant-eating dinosaur.'

Mr Richards said because there weren't many dinosaur bones found in Australia it's likely the ones found last week 'are going to be new or different'.

The site had actually been discovered a few years ago by the museum director Robyn Mackenzie's daughter Cindy, daughter-in-law Heidi and son Sandy who had been checking sheep in the paddock.

Mr Richards said exhuming the remains was a very lengthy process and involved processing the bones at an on-site lab before bringing them back to a formal laboratory.

'Then we started very slowly moving through the layers about four inches at a time using machinery,' he said.

While the team are yet to identify which kind of species the dinosaur may be, they've said it's likely it could be a new kind altogether

'We think it has a long neck similar to a brachiosaurus and we've been finding lots of tail bones.

'The thing is we collect these fossils from the soils and then we have to come back and work on them in the museum and that process can take three to five years.'

He added the dinosaur is also expected to be one of the youngest to have ever been found in Australia.

The dig will continue until June 1 with the experts suggesting more dinosaur remains will be uncovered as it progresses.
It never occurred to me that God would use me to write songs. Nobody is less qualified than me. In primary school, I was asked to mime rather than sing, such was my singing ability.

Now I have just released an album New Day Dawning in collaboration with a musician friend Rob Whelan.

The song writing journey

The journey began one Sunday morning at church. I was singing in a low quiet monotone, while everybody else were singing loudly and joyfully. I was too embarrassed to sing in public.

I said to the Lord, Lord, I would love to be able to sing.

The Lord answered this prayer in a totally unexpected way.

A few weeks later I was at a worship conference in Te Aroha, and international artist Jason Upton was leading worship on stage.

As we were worshipping, I heard these words.

You came into my life

Turned my world upside down

You came into the room

And took me by the hand

Help me Jesus to climb the mountains

Help me Jesus to dance in the valleys

Help me Jesus to see above the clouds

As you transform me

Into your likeness

I knew that these were the words to a song, but I wasnt sure what to do with them. I dont play a musical instrument.

When I arrived back in Wellington, I told a talented musician friend of mine, Tim, about this and he graciously offered to help.

Next Sunday, after church, Tim sat down on the piano with me and helped compose a melody.

After that, it was like a dam burst and a river of songs flowed. I was getting a new song every week, and Tim and I started meeting weekly to work on them.

After a few months of working on the songs, Tim and I both got busy and the composing fell away.

The Lord brings a New Age musician

During this time I was asked to help set up the Healing Rooms at the Wellington Cathedral.

Shortly after opening the Healing Rooms, a man called Rob Whelan turned up at the Cathedral in need of prayer. He was a talented musician who followed New Age principles, but he had seen the sign outside on the footpath saying, Jesus heals.

Rob had lost his voice, had a gig coming up and was desperate for prayer to be healed.

We invited him in, told him that Jesus heals and prayed for his voice to be completely restored.

The next week he came back to the Healing Rooms with the news that his voice had been fine at the gig. He asked us to pray for his auntie in the UK who had some serious health problems.

Because his auntie was overseas, we prayed for her and also prayed on a prayer cloth which Rob sent to her in the UK. His aunties health improved dramatically overnight and when she received the prayer cloth a few days later, she was healed.

After a few months of many return visits to the Healing Rooms, Rob gave his life to the Lord.

As we got to know each other, I mentioned to him that I had these songs the Lord had given me.

Rob said that we should get together sometime to work on them.

Birth of an album

Nothing happened for a few months. Then one Sunday morning, Rob turned up at my local church (Capital Vineyard) and told me the Lord had sent him, and wanted us to collaborate on the songs.

Rob invited me around to his flat at 7pm the next day to start work on them.

I was excited about this prospect, but over the next few hours I started getting cold feet.

I said to the Lord, Lord if this is not from you, please let it fall to the ground. Please take it away. And if this is from you, what song do I give Rob to start with?

I heard the Lord say, give him The Vine.

The Vine was the third song I received. Id woken up at 5:30 am one morning and heard the opening words,

It took me a long time to find the vine where His presence flows into mine

When I arrived at Robs flat the next night, Rob said, What have you got?

I gave him the lyrics to The Vine song.

Rob looked at the words and told me that for two years hed had this melody floating around in his head but was unable to write lyrics for it.

He started playing the melody and singing the words to The Vine and they just clicked into place. Within twenty minutes we had the song completely finished. It was amazing. Rob had never completed a song this quickly.

Over the next few weeks I introduced Rob to more of my songs, and Rob started introducing them into his gigs at the pub.

Then, I started getting new songs. As the songs improved and grew, we decided we needed to do an album and so the album New Day Dawning was launched.

I could never have dreamed that God would use me to write lyrics and help produce an album of songs.

I want to encourage you. No matter how difficult your past is, no matter what negative words have been spoken over your life, the Lord can turn things around. He is a God of turnaround.

He is also a God who can do extraordinary things, more than you could ever hope or imagine.

Ephesians chapter 3, verse 20

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us
New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian has called out Victorians seeking to beat their state's lockdown by rushing to cross the border in their cars and taken aim at the locked-down state over its contact tracing system.

From midnight Thursday Victoria will be in a 'circuit breaker' lockdown until June 3 in an effort to prevent the spread of Covid after the Victorian Health Department listed 79 exposure sites - with more expected to follow.

Berejiklian questioned the effectiveness of Victoria's contact tracing system and said recent history showed positive Covid case numbers would rise 'exponentially' if not quickly contained.

New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian has called out Victorians seeking to beat their state's lockdown by rushing to cross the border in their cars

From midnight Thursday Victoria will be in lockdown until June 3 in an effort to prevent the spread of Covid after the Victorian Health Department listed 94 exposure sites - with more expected to follow. A Melbourne outdoor pop-up testing station is pictured

All flights in and out of Victoria have been cancelled, making road trips out of Victoria - which are already happening, even more of a concern.

'If you are heading to Sydney like that, please don't utilise the goodwill of our state,' Berejiklian said.

'Please know your actions can really harm so many others,'

'Make sure if you feel like you've been exposed in any way that you get tested, you stay indoors and don't run the risk of infecting anybody else.'

Berejiklian described Victoria's unfolding Covid situation as 'precarious'.

She said NSW authorities are monitoring Victoria's COVID-19 outbreak 'very closely' amid fears it could have crossed the border after people from a NSW sporting club visited one of the exposure sites last weekend.

'I'm worried about the evolving situation and of course we'll watch closely to see what the Victorian government announces this morning,' the premier told Nine on Thursday.

The Victorian Health Department has listed 79 exposure sites listed on its website, spread across more than 30 Melbourne suburbs and regional Bendigo, Cohuna and Red Hill.

'We don't have any intention of closing the borders at this stage, but of course we are very, very concerned with what's going on,' Ms Berejiklian said.

Members of the Tooleybuc Sporting Club in the NSW Riverina, who could have been exposed to COVID-19 while attending an event at regional Cohuna in Victoria on Saturday, have been told to self-isolate.

Staff wearing PPE are seen amongst massive queues at a pop-up COVID test site at Albert Park Lake on Thursday

'A few NSW teams were there, so we're watching the evolving situation very closely, making sure that everybody who has been exposed .... gets tested and isolates until further notice, Ms Berejiklian said.

If the Victorian government imposes a lockdown 'it takes pressure off us because we know that people who have been exposed will no longer be able to cross the border', she said.

The NSW government has advised people against travelling to Melbourne and Bendigo and Ms Berejiklian also asked people in Victoria not to rush to NSW.

'Can I please urge anybody who is intending to get in their car and try and beat the lockdown, please think about your fellow citizens, please be safe, please know your actions can really harm so many others.'

NSW is edging towards administering 1.2 million vaccinations, with the premier urging more people to come forward for the jab.

'What's happening in Victoria is a wake-up call. We don't know what's around the corner,' she said.
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Acting Premier James Merlino said the spread of the outbreak was causing great concern, with more than 10,000 primary and secondary contacts identified

Victoria's fourth lockdown might be its cruellest yet.

While six million residents went about their lives under the impression Covid-19 was behind them, now confined to the dungeons of quarantine hotels, they have been shocked back to reality.

Victoria is once again heading for Stage 3 restrictions.

While the MCG was pumping, bars and shopping centres humming, a covert wave of the virus has been spreading virtually undetected through the state for more than two weeks.

The coronavirus cluster which began in Melbourne's north at the weekend expanded to 26 infections on Thursday, as residents were told they would be plunged into a seven-day lockdown from midnight.

The outbreak began when an Australian who returned from overseas, without the virus, contracted it in Adelaide's hotel quarantine - before testing negative and flying home to Melbourne on May 4.

A report released in South Australia said the traveller likely caught the virus from an adjacent hotel room when his door and their door were momentarily opened at the same time, raising questions about the safety of the entire program.

Genomic sequencing has found the new cluster of 26 in Melbourne have the same double mutant Indian strain as the man from hotel quarantine, meaning it somehow jumped from him to infect others across the city.

More than 10,000 primary and secondary contacts have been identified and up to 80 potential exposure sites listed with footy fans, pub goers and even students at a swimming club now at risk.

Some of the Covid-hit venues in Melbourne after the virus travelled from South Australia

Healthcare workers are seen at the Albert Park Covid19 testing facility in Melbourne on Thursday

So how did Australia's second most populated state again end up at the mercy of Covid-19 just as the vaccine rollout gains momentum and travel bubbles re-open?

This is the story of the unrelenting charge of the coronavirus that should be a warning to all Australians.

Genomic sequencing shows the outbreak is linked a Wollert man who contracted the virus in quarantine in South Australia before returning to Victoria where he tested positive on May 11.

Victoria's first local case in 86 days was recorded on Monday, with health authorities ordering shoppers and visitors to a swimming centre to get tested and isolate immediately.

Testing showed local infections were family contacts, living in separate houses but by Thursday morning, the outbreak had jumped to 26 cases - with an additional 11 infections diagnosed overnight.

The alarming increase can be seen in the Department of Health's expansive list of potential exposure sites - which spread across more than 30 Melbourne suburbs and Bendigo, Cohuna and Red Hill in regional Victoria.

But definitive link between the Wollert man and the Whittlesea outbreak hasn't been established.

On May 20, a Covid-positive case went shopping at the High Point Shopping Centre in Maryibyrnong, between 5pm and 8pm.

Health authorities ordered those who attended the centre at the identified times to get tested and isolate until further notice.

On May 21, an infected person then visited Jump! Swim School, in Bundoora, Melbourne's north-east, between 8.55am and 10.15am.

Fans pack into Marvel Stadium shoulder-to-shoulder as they walked through the concourse, causing concerns the virus could have spread rapidly through the crowd

A positive case visited High Point Shopping Centre in Maryibyrnong (pictured), between 5pm and 8pm on May 20

The MCG and Marvel Stadium are amongst the exposure sites and three bars in the inner suburb of Prahran remain a 'concern'.

A positive case went to the Essendon/North Melbourne AFL game at Marvel Stadium on Sunday, 23 May.

Photos from the front of the venue and inside the concourse showed footy fans shoulder-to-shoulder as they walked through the stadium, causing concerns the virus could have spread rapidly through the crowd.

Health authorities said individuals sitting on Level 1 between Aisles 5 and 28 or Level 3 between Aisles 6 and 29 must get tested and stay isolated until they have receive a negative result.

'The department is working with the AFL and Marvel Stadium to contact spectators to provide this advice,' the Department of Health said.

'Some individuals with the closest contact to the positive case will be directly provided more specific advice from the Department of Health.'

An infected person also attended the Collingwood-Port Adelaide AFL game at the MCG on Sunday.

Also at the weekend, an infected case partied at three different bars in Prahran on Saturday night - and ended up kicking on until 4am on Sunday in one of the venues known for packed crowds and a pumping dancefloor.

The pub-crawler, unknowingly infected with a highly contagious double mutant Indian strain of the virus, began the evening at a cocktail bar on Chapel Street called Three Monkeys.

They arrived at about 9.15pm and then went down the street to the famed Somewhere Bar - an establishment frequented by young, hip partygoers.

That Saturday the venue was packed as DJs blasted out tunes late into the night.

Three Monkeys also had a good turnout, raising fears the infected drinker may have sparked a super-spreader event.

Genomic sequencing shows the outbreak is linked to the infection of a Wollert man, who contracted the virus in quarantine in South Australia and tested positive on May 11. He was staying at the Playford Hotel (pictured)

The infected case stayed at Somewhere Bar before heading back to Three Monkeys at about 1am.

The positive case then headed off towards Circus Bar - known for its raucous dance floor - on Commercial Road and kept the party going until 4am.

A report released on Wednesday in SA found it likely the Wollert man caught the virus through aerosol transmission due to the 'timing of doors opening and closing' at an adjacent room occupied by an infected guest.

The man, aged in his 30s, was staying at the Playford Hotel, in Adelaide.

South Australia on Wednesday became the first state to close its border to residents of Greater Melbourne. NSW and Queensland are urging residents to reconsider travel to the city and parts of regional Victoria.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said authorities are monitoring Victoria's outbreak 'very closely' amid fears it could have crossed the border.

'I'm worried about the evolving situation and of course we'll watch closely to see what the Victorian government announces this morning,' she told Nine on Thursday.

'We don't have any intention of closing the borders at this stage, but of course we are very, very concerned with what's going on.'

The Victorian Department of Health asked visitors to the Jump! Swim School, in Bundoora, Melbourne's north-east, between 8.55am and 10.15am on May 21 to get tested immediately and self-isolate for 14 days

The NSW government has advised people against travelling to Melbourne and Bendigo and Ms Berejiklian also asked people in Victoria not to rush to NSW.

'Can I please urge anybody who is intending to get in their car and try and beat the lockdown, please think about your fellow citizens, please be safe, please know your actions can really harm so many others.'

Acting Premier James Merlino confirmed the state will enter the 'circuit breaker' lockdown at midnight on Thursday.

'Unless something changes, this will be increasingly uncontrollable,' he told reporters.

People will only be able to leave home to shop for food and essential items, provide or receive care, exercise and to work or study if they can't from home, and getting vaccinated.

The 5km travel limit will also be reimposed for exercise and shopping, as will compulsory use of masks both indoors and outdoors.

All non-essential retail will close but essential stores like supermarkets, bottle shops and pharmacies will remain open. Cafes and restaurants will only be able to offer take-away.

Childcare and kinder will stay open, but schools will close.
Western Australia will reintroduce a hard border with Victoria after a cluster of 26 coronavirus cases was detected in Melbourne's north.

Victoria will enter a seven-day lockdown from midnight on Thursday in a bid to contain the outbreak which includes 79 exposure sites.

From 10am Perth time, Victoria will be designated a 'medium-risk' jurisdiction under WA's controlled border regime.

Travel will be blocked for anyone who has been in Victoria since May 16 unless they secure an exemption.

Premier Mark McGowan (pictured) has announced that Western Australia will close its borders to Victoria from 10am Perth time

Victoria will enter a seven-day lockdown from midnight on Thursday as a Covid cluster in Melbourne's north continues to grow

The exemption criteria include senior government officials, active military personnel, federal MPs, transport, freight and logistics workers and individuals approved on compassionate grounds.

'This is a concerning and a fast-developing situation, however the controls we have already put in place have mitigated the risk,' Premier Mark McGowan told reporters.

People who have recently travelled to Victoria and need to return to WA will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days upon returning home.

Those who have already returned after being in Victoria since May 16 are required to get tested within 48 hours and self-quarantine until they return a negative result.

Mr McGowan said the outbreak in Victoria was 'concerning'. Pictured: Victorians flock to a testing facility as the state battles a new Covid cluster

Previously they only had to get tested if they had been to a confirmed exposure site.

Mr McGowan said 531 people were due to fly to WA from Victoria on Thursday but the number was likely to drop as flights were cancelled and people adjusted their plans.

He said the wide spread of the virus in Victoria was troubling.

'The concerning pattern of this outbreak is exactly the kind of situation we had in mind when making decisions to lock down WA in the past,' he said.
The valedictorian of a high school in Michigan claims her principal prevented her from including comments about her belief in Jesus Christ during her graduation speech in June, it has been revealed.

The conservative legal nonprofit First Liberty has sent a letter on behalf of Hillsdale High School senior Elizabeth Turner to principal Amy Goldsmith demanding that she agrees to let the teen 'express her private religious beliefs' by Friday.

The letter claims Goldsmith engaged in 'unconstitutional censorship' when she allegedly commented when editing the speech that Turner was 'representing the school' - and so would violate the Establishment Clause of the U.S. Constitution.

First Liberty argues in the letter that Turner's speech is not subject to the Establishment Clause because it constitutes private speech, not government speech - and so she should be allowed to give her speech as written in her first draft.

Hillsdale High School principal Amy Goldsmith, left, allegedly attempted to censor Elizabeth Turner, right, who had included comments about her belief in Jesus Christ in the first draft of her graduation speech

The Hillsdale High School, where Turner is the valedictorian, is pictured in Google Street View

'Ms. Turner's statements do not transform into government speech simply because they are delivered in a public setting or to a public audience,' the letter reads.

The law group attached evidence exhibits in the letter, including a screenshot of the first draft of Turner's speech at issue.

'For me, my future hope is found in my relationship with Christ. By trusting in him and choosing to live a life dedicated to bringing his kingdom glory, I can be confident that I am living a life with purpose and meaning,' Turner wrote.

'My identity is found by what God says and who I want to become is laid out in scripture. Whether we want to admit it or not, not one of us can be certain of how our lives will unfold, but we do know that trials will come.'

She continued: 'The reality of this is that we face an unpredictable future, and while we are making all these plans to prepare, ultimately none of us are promised tomorrow, making it all the more important to make today count.'

The screenshot of the speech, which was edited using track changes features in Google Docs, also shows the alleged comments from the principal.

'This is better and you fixed the language, but you are representing the school in the speech, not using the podium as your public forum,' the principal allegedly wrote.

'We need to be mindful about the inclusion of religious aspects. These are your strong beliefs, but they are not appropriate for a speech in a school public setting. I know this will frustrate you, but we have to be mindful of it.'

The conservative legal nonprofit First Liberty has sent a letter on behalf of Hillsdale High School senior Elizabeth Turner to principal Amy Goldsmith

The letter included screenshots of the first draft of Turner's speech ahead of the graduation ceremony in June

The letter also included screenshots of emails between Turner and Goldsmith

The law group tweeted about the sending the letter to the principal

After receiving the comments from Goldsmith, Turner allegedly sent an email to her principal appearing to tell her she would not give the speech if she could not include the references to her Christian faith.

'I read your comments and unfortunately I don't think I would be able to deliver a genuine speech under those circumstances. I don't agree that we should avoid the topic of tragedy and death because that is a part of everyone's future,' she wrote.

Principal Goldsmith is seen in an undated photo

She added: 'For me, my personal future relies on my faith and I also want the freedom to be able to address that in my speech if the opportunity arises.'

The back-and-forth over parts of the speech involving 'tragedy and death' was not immediately clear as the letter and supporting exhibits did not mention them.

Goldsmith then responded in an email to Turner that continued to argue about the 'appropriateness' of the speech.

'I think one can call for a life of purpose without overtly using the words death and tragedy,' Goldsmith wrote.

'While there is a degree of freedom to the content of your speech, there are also considerations of what the content and message should be at a commencement celebration and its appropriateness for the audience.'

She added: 'When crafting a speech, it is important to consider purpose and audience. Your speech has a good thesis, its the connotations of the words that you can avoid.'

That email response from Goldsmith was forwarded to First Liberty by Turner's father, Dave Turner - the lead pastor of Hillsdale Free Methodist Church.

DailyMail.com has reached out to Dave Turner for more information and additional comment.
Panic buyers have stripped Melbourne's supermarket shelves of toilet paper - with shoppers posting pictures of empty shelves just minutes after it was announced the state would go into lockdown.

Health authorities have confirmed Victoria will move to stage three restrictions from midnight Thursday - as the number of cases soared from 15 to 26, with fears infections could skyrocket after an infected person partied at three different bars in Melbourne's trendy Prahran.

The supermarket strip out comes despite Victoria's Acting Premier James Merlino urging Victorians to show some restraint.

'There is absolutely no reason to panic buy,' Mr Merlino said.

In Bentleigh... no toilet paper minutes after lockdown announced... why is this always the response... @TheTodayShow pic.twitter.com/Lzrvt0Dp1m  Izabella Staskowski (@IzaStaskowski) May 27, 2021

A Coles in Footscray was empty moments after seven-day lockdown was announced (above)

A woman in a face mask carries bundles of toilet paper out of a Melbourne supermarket

'Everything we need, in terms of our goods and services on the supermarket shelves is there. There is absolutely no reason to panic buy. Please don't do it.'

Coles has confirmed increased demand but said are not intending to put buying limits in place at this stage.

Woolworths is understood to also be preparing for potential increase in demand.

The toilet paper aisle at Coles in Elsternwick was seen virtually empty, and the supermarket confirmed it has experienced 'elevated demand'.

'We've seen elevated demand in Melbourne today but there is plenty of stock in the supply chain, regular deliveries to stores and our team members have been refilling gaps throughout the day,' a spokeperson said.

'We ask that customers stay calm, only buy what they need and be respectful to our hard working team members.'

A man carts a trolley full of jumbo toilet paper packs to his car in Melbourne on Thursday

A photograph of empty empty shelves at Greenvale Coles amid Melbourne's latest outbreak

Mr Merlino confirmed on Thursday the state will enter the 'circuit breaker' lockdown at midnight as Victoria races to contain the Covid cluster in Melbourne's northern suburbs.

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The latest outbreak now sits at 15 cases, with 11 new infections - five of which were announced late on Tuesday.

One of those infected people is in intensive care and Mr Merlino said they are 'not in a good way'.

'Unless something changes, this will be increasingly uncontrollable,' he said.

He added the spread of the outbreak was causing great concern, with more than 10,000 primary and secondary contacts.

People will only be able to leave home to shop for food and essential items, provide or receive care, exercise, work or study if they are unable to from home, and get vaccinated.

The 5km travel limit will also be reimposed for exercise and shopping, as will compulsory use of masks indoors and outdoors.

All non-essential retail will close but stores including supermarkets, bottle shops and pharmacies will remain open.

Victorian supermarkets were stripped in June last year after restrictions caused panic buying (pictured Melbourne supermarket in June 2020)

A couple leave a Melbourne supermarket on Thursday as toilet paper flies off shelves

Cafes and restaurants will only be able to offer takeaway. Childcare and kinder will stay open, but schools will close.

Professional sports events such as the weekend's AFL games in Melbourne will continue, but without crowds.

Mr Merlino also announced the state's vaccine program will expand, with people over 40 now eligible for the Pfizer jab.

In his media conference, Mr Merlino highlighted the slow rollout of the Commonwealth vaccine program and continued problems with hotel quarantine.

'We are not through this pandemic until we have had the successful rollout of the federal government's vaccine programs and we have safe alternatives to hotel quarantine,' he said.

He also noted the current outbreak originated from South Australian hotel quarantine.

'It's not a criticism, it's just a fact,' Mr Merlino said.

A woman stocks up on toilet paper and other supplies as supermarkets are stripped bare of loo rolls as Victoria braces for a seven day lockdown

A woman leaves a Coles store in Melbourne after buying more than 55 rolls of toilet paper ahead of the seven-day lockdown in Victoria

He acknowledged the cost of the lockdown to businesses and event organisers, adding there would further announcements 'in coming days' about what support the state government could provide.

While the lockdown could be shorter than seven days, Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton is doubtful.

'We have to ready ourselves for seven days of this lockdown,' Professor Sutton said.

He added all the active cases remain linked.

Prof Sutton said the Indian B1.617.1 variant of the virus that has caused the outbreak is particularly concerning.

'It really is rapid and that's led to the exponential increase (of contacts),' he said.

'It's a very infectious strain ... it's not good.'

There are now 79 exposure sites across Melbourne and regional Victoria, including the MCG and Marvel Stadium.

There were infected people at AFL matches at the weekend, while another visited three bars in Prahran and South Yarra, which is of concern to authorities.

A woman pushed a supermarket trolley teeming with multiple cartons of large bottles of water

Toilet paper shelves in one Melbourne Coles store were completely empty within hours of the lockdown announcement being made

Prof Sutton strongly defended Victoria's contact tracing efforts as the outbreak spreads, saying it is an 'absurd proposition that contact tracing has gone wrong'.

Genomic sequencing shows the outbreak is linked to the case of a Wollert man, with an official SA report on Wednesday suggesting he caught the virus from aerosol transmission in an Adelaide quarantine hotel.

But a definitive link between the Wollert man and the Whittlesea outbreak has not been established.

There are 34 active cases in total in Victoria, including in hotel quarantine, with more than 40,411 tests conducted in the 24 hours to midnight Wednesday.

Some 12,677 vaccine doses were administered during the same period.

The lockdown is Victoria's fourth.

The state's most recent was the five-day 'circuit breaker' in February when the virus escaped hotel quarantine and infected more than a dozen people.

The second lockdown was during 2020 and lasted 112 days.
Christine Wormuth made history as the first woman ever to be confirmed by the US Senate as Secretary of the Army - only to have the upper chamber reverse itself in what observers are calling a 'procedural hiccup.'

In a strange twist, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, the Democrat from New York, asked the Senate to rescind Wormuth's nomination hours after it was approved by unanimous consent.

'As in executive session, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate vitiate the previous action on Executive Calendar 135,' Schumer said on the Senate floor.

DailyMail.com has sought comment from Schumer's office.

The Senate adjourned for the night after Schumer received unanimous consent to 'vitiate' - or rescind - Wormuth's confirmation.

According to Roll Call correspondent Andrew Clevenger, the move 'looks more like a procedural hiccup than a threat to her historic confirmation.'

Christine Wormuth (left) made history as the first woman ever to be confirmed by the US Senate as Secretary of the Army - only to have the upper chamber reverse itself. In a strange twist, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (right), the Democrat from New York, asked the Senate to rescind Wormuth's nomination hours after it was approved by unanimous consent

Earlier on Wednesday evening, Wormuth tweeted that she was 'so honored to be confirmed as Secretary of the Army!'

'Serving in this role is a tremendous privilege and responsibility!'

That tweet has since been deleted. Schumer also deleted a tweet congratulating Wormuth.

DailyMail.com has also sought comment from Wormuth.

Wormuth's confirmation was thought to be assured after she sailed through her nomination hearings before the Senate Armed Services Committee earlier this month.

If confirmed, she would be one of the more powerful officials in a defense establishment long dominated by men, and she would be the second woman named to a top Pentagon role by Biden.

According to Roll Call correspondent Andrew Clevenger, the move 'looks more like a procedural hiccup than a threat to her historic confirmation.'

The deputy secretary of defense is Kathleen Hicks.

Her most recent job was as director of the International Security and Defense Policy Center at the RAND Corp., a federally funded think tank.

But prior to that she served as the undersecretary of defense for policy and the senior director for defense policy at the NSC during the Obama administration and held other Defense Department positions.

She also previously served as principal deputy assistant secretary for homeland defense.

Wormuth addressed a wide array of issues at the May 13 hearing, but many of the questions focused on personnel and command climate problems that have plagued the service.

The Army's handling of sexual assaults and other violence has come under significant scrutiny in the aftermath of a series of crimes, including murders and suicides last year at Fort Hood, Texas.

Last month, the Army said it took disciplinary action against 21 officers and non-commissioned officers at Fort Hood in connection with the 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, were the latest Army moves in response to Guillen's disappearance and death.

A review panel found that military leaders at the post were not adequately dealing with high rates of sexual assault and harassment and were utterly neglecting the sexual assault prevention program.

Wormuth said she was 'angry and frustrated' by the failures at Fort Hood.

And she said the Army needs to 'put quite a bit of focus' on improving the command climate all the way down to the lower levels so that younger soldiers feel safe and able to make complaints if needed.

Earlier on Wednesday evening, Wormuth tweeted that she was 'so honored to be confirmed as Secretary of the Army!' 'Serving in this role is a tremendous privilege and responsibility!' That tweet has since been deleted. Schumer also deleted a tweet congratulating Wormuth. DailyMail.com has also sought comment from Wormuth

She added that she would want to see what other training could be done, and not just 'more Power Point slides that people go to mental screen saver on.'

One of those could be better bystander training for soldiers so they know how and when to step in when they see something happening.

Wormouth also said that assessment teams set up by the Army leadership already may be a way to help get at the problem.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's first directive after he took office in January ordered senior leaders to look into their sexual assault prevention programs, and he created an independent panel to study the matter.

That panel has recommended that decisions to prosecute service members for sexual assault be made by independent authorities, not commanders, a major change that has been resisted by the military.

In other comments, she said she is aware of the increased demands on the Army National Guard over the past year, as the citizen soldiers responded to civil unrest, COVID-19 testing and vaccination needs, natural disasters and other deployments.
The Queensland and Tasmanian governments are shutting their borders to Victoria after the state went into a seven-day lockdown due to a coronavirus outbreak.

The lockdown will begin at 11.59pm on Thursday after the state recorded 11 new cases linked to the City of Whittlesea outbreak overnight taking the total cases to 26.

The Sunshine state will join Western Australia and Tasmania, which also rushed to ban Victorians after Acting Victorian Premier James Merlino made the announcement on Thursday.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk says anyone who has been in Victoria since May 11 will be ordered into hotel quarantine on arrival from 1am on Friday.

'We've been through this before, and I know that people understand that we have to take these measures on the advice ... because we want to continue to keep Queenslanders safe,' Ms Palaszczuk told reporters.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk (pictured) has slammed shut its borders to Victoria

Ms Palaszczuk said police would be meeting flights at the state's airports to check if people arriving have been in Victoria.

Anyone already in Queensland will be subject to the same lockdown provisions that Victorians are for the next seven days.

It's the first time Queensland has shut the border to a domestic location since travel from Western Australia's Perth and Peel regions was restricted on April 23.

'We've all done this before, we know exactly what's needed. It's kept us safe before, and I'm sure this will keep us safe again,' Chief Health Officer Jeannette Young said.

Meanwhile, Victoria was designated a 'medium-risk' jurisdiction under WA's controlled border regime from 10am Perth time.

Travel will be blocked for anyone who has been in Victoria since May 16 unless they secure an exemption.

The exemption criteria include senior government officials, active military personnel, federal MPs, transport, freight and logistics workers and individuals approved on compassionate grounds.

'This is a concerning and a fast-developing situation, however the controls we have already put in place have mitigated the risk,' Premier Mark McGowan told reporters.

People who have recently travelled to Victoria and need to return to WA will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days upon returning home.

Those who have already returned after being in Victoria since May 16 are required to get tested within 48 hours and self-quarantine until they return a negative result.

Previously they only had to get tested if they had been to a confirmed exposure site.

Mr McGowan said 531 people were due to fly to WA from Victoria on Thursday but the number was likely to drop as flights were cancelled and people adjusted their plans.

Victoria recorded 11 new cases on Thursday to take the outbreak to 26. Pictured is a queue at a testing clinic in Melbourne

He said the wide spread of the virus in Victoria was troubling.

'The concerning pattern of this outbreak is exactly the kind of situation we had in mind when making decisions to lock down WA in the past,' he said.

Similar restrictions were imposed in Tasmania, with all of Victoria declared a 'high-risk' location from 2pm.

'This means that after 2pm you can't travel to Tasmania if you've spent time in Victoria in the previous 14 days, unless you are approved as an essential traveller,' Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein told reporters.

Tasmanian residents in Victoria can apply for essential traveller status if they want to return home.

However, they must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival at a 'suitable premises' or in a government-run hotel at their own expense.

Mr Gutwein said he expected the travel ban to mirror the length of the Victorian lockdown.

'We will provide updates as we work our way through this. One would hope that over the seven days they can get on top of this,' he said.

Anyone who has been in other areas of Victoria since May 6 must monitor for COVID-19 symptoms, Mr Gutwein said.

Extra workers have been deployed to staff Tasmania's coronavirus hotline due to a spike in calls.

Victorian authorities have identified more than 10,000 primary and secondary contacts linked to the Melbourne outbreak.

Anyone in Tasmania who has been at designated high-risk areas and premises in Victoria must self-isolate immediately.

Anyone who has been in Victoria since May 11 will be ordered into hotel quarantine on arrival from 1am on Friday. Pictured is the drive-through testing clinic in Melbourne

South Australia, which imposed a ban on Greater Melbourne residents from 6pm on Wednesday, is yet to ban other Victorians, while New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian said there was no plan to close the border.

However, Ms Berejiklian has urged Victorians thinking of fleeing north to escape another COVID-19 lockdown to be considerate and stay put.

Authorities are already worried the virus may have spread into the state, after several teams from a NSW sporting club visited one of the exposure sites.

NSW residents are being urged to avoid travel to Victoria, and anyone entering NSW from the southern state after 4pm on Thursday will still be required to abide by the lockdown rules.

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Ms Berejiklian said NSW had no intention of closing the border to Victorians at this stage, despite every other state doing so.

However the premier urged Victorians not to take advantage of NSW's goodwill by rushing to cross the border before the 4pm deadline.

'There are 55 crossings of the border and we just ask everybody to do the right thing,' she told Nine's Today Show on Thursday.

'Anybody who is intending to get in their car and try and beat the lockdown, please think about your fellow citizens.

'We've relied on the goodwill of our citizens during the entire pandemic. Let's not give up now.'

The premier said once the Victorian lockdown - and its travel limitations - comes into effect at midnight, the pressure on NSW would ease.

Anyone who does enter NSW from Victoria after 4pm must remain at home for seven days, and is only permitted to leave for limited reasons.

However, NSW residents in border communities will only be required to abide by the rules if they go outside the border region from 4pm.

The premier said the outbreak served as a reminder of the urgent need for NSW residents to roll up their sleeves and get vaccinated.

'What's happening in Victoria is a wake-up call. We don't know what's around the corner,' she said.
A colonel in the U.S. Army and his veteran wife were shot to death outside their home in Virginia on Wednesday morning and police are still working to identify possible suspects.

Edward McDaniel Jr., 55, and his wife Brenda McDaniel, 63, were gunned down outside of their home on the 8000 block of Flint Street in Springfield, officials with the Fairfax County Police Department said.

Kevin Davis, the department's chief of police, said in a press conference on Wednesday night: 'They were shot and killed in cold blood in their own front yard.'

Dispatchers received a 911 call reporting someone breaking into the home around 9.20am and officers arrived within two minutes after the call was placed, Davis said.

'When they arrived, they did locate two people shot in their front yard. Officers heroically gave first aid to those that were shot in the front yard,' he said.

Edward McDaniel Jr., 55, and his wife Brenda McDaniel, 63, were gunned down outside of their home on the 8000 block of Flint Street in Springfield

Both of the McDaniels were physicians with the US Army, cops said during a press conference

Both of them were declared dead at the scene by rescue personnel from multiple gunshot wounds. Cops said that at least one other family member was inside the home at the time of the shooting.

Davis told WTTG that the couple was shot at a 'point-blank' range and indicated that the potential suspect, or suspects, are known to a relative of the two victims.

Ed O'Carroll, commander of the department's major crimes bureau, indicated during the press conference that cops do not know how many suspects may have been involved in the shooting.

'The person responsible, or the persons responsible, for today's double homicide are not in custody and we need the community's help,' O'Carroll said.

An aerial view shows the police response outside of the home where the McDaniels were shot

Cops said that the couple was shot at a 'point-blank' range and indicated that the potential suspect, or suspects, are known to a relative of the two victims

Officials said officers had responded to the same home on Monday for a dispute and potential burglary and that he believes the two incidents are related

He added that the cops have not retrieved the firearm 'or firearms' used in the shooting and that the suspect, or suspects, 'should be considered armed and dangerous.'

The police department has reached out to other law enforcement agencies in the U.S. Capital region for assistance in the case.

The U.S. Marshall's Service has offered a $10.000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the suspect or suspects.

Officials said that the department received an outpouring of tips throughout the day, which has helped them identify the vehicle that was seen fleeing the home after the shooting.

Both of them were declared dead at the scene by rescue personnel from multiple gunshot wounds

An incident command center is seen outside of the home where two Army physicians were shot to death on Wednesday

Cops said they are searching for a 2018 light-colored Nissan Altima with Maryland plate number 1EF1479

Kevin Davis, the department's chief of police, said in a press conference on Wednesday night: 'They were shot and killed in cold blood in their own front yard'

Cops said they are searching for a 2018 light-colored Nissan Altima with Maryland plate number 1EF1479.

'The car may be parked in your neighborhood right now,' Davis said.

O'Carroll said during the press conference that officers had responded to the same home on Monday for a dispute and potential burglary and that he believes the two incidents are related.

Both of the McDaniels were physicians with the U,S, Army, O'Carroll said.

Matt Leonard, an Army Spokesperson. told DailyMail.com that Brenda McDaniel served as a Medical-Surgical Nurse in the Army from September 1983 to September 2009, when she retired at the rank of colonel.

He said that Col. Brenda McDaniel's awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, five Meritorious Service Medal, a Joint Service Commendation Medal, two Army Commendation Medal, and an Army Achievement Medal, among other awards and ribbons.

DailyMail.com has reached out to the U.S. Army for more information and additional comment about the McDaniels.
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Britain's weather turned on its head today following a dismal May so far - with some areas set to enjoy temperatures hotter than Ibiza just in time for the bank holiday weekend.

After weeks of downpours and below-average temperatures, forecasters are predicting a brighter end to the month and warm temperatures with sunny spells for much of the UK over the next two weeks.

By 2pm today, the mercury had got to 68.2F (20.1C) in London - and the capital along with central parts of England could see temperatures climb to 73F (23C) over the weekend, and highs of 72F (22C) on Bank Holiday Monday.

The last time temperatures were that high was on March 30 which brought the UK's hottest day of the year so far with 76.1F (24.5C) recorded in London - a figure that also made it the warmest March day in 53 years.

Other parts of the South East, Wales and the North West are predicted to see top temperatures of 68F (20C).

Oli Claydon, meteorologist from the Met Office, said: 'Showers will start to ease and temperatures will increase over the bank holiday. There'll be highs of up to 73F for central parts of England and possibly into London.

A woman relaxes in the sunshine at Green Park in London this afternoon as the capital enjoys a day of warm temperatures

People arrive to enjoy the afternoon sunshine at the Dorset seaside resort of Bournemouth today

Members of the public relax on Brighton beach in East Sussex this afternoon as temperatures rise across the country

A group of people enjoy a picnic at St James's Park in London on a pleasant and warm day in the capital this afternoon

A couple relax among the daisies in the sunshine at St James's Park in London this afternoon

The promenade at Bournemouth in Dorset is busy with people out enjoying the sunshine today

A woman looks at her phone as members of the public enjoy the warm sunshine at St James's Park in London today

Members of the public relax on Brighton beach this afternoon as temperatures rise across the country

People enjoy the sunshine at St James's Park in London today as temperatures warm up around the country

A couple sit on the beach at Bournemouth as they shelter from the sunshine and enjoy the warm weather today

Women sit on the grass at Wallingford in Oxfordshire today as the enjoy the sunshine along the banks of the River Thames

'There is a slow progression towards warmer and drier conditions.'

Wet weather has dominated the forecast this month, with Wales recording 200.7mm of rain - double the monthly average - making it the wettest May in records dating back to 1862.

Dorset, Bristol and eastern parts of Scotland have also been particularly hard-hit by downpours. Across the UK, it has been the 10th wettest May on record, according to Met Office figures.

Showers eased yesterday and saw the arrival of clearer skies and today, some warm sunshine should be expected through the afternoon as temperatures climb into the mid 60s.

Describing today's forecast, Met Office meteorologist Clare Nasir said: 'Thursday will dawn bright as you step outside.

Lifeguards on the beach with their rescue boards at the seaside resort of Bournemouth in Dorset this morning

A man relaxes in the sunshine at St James's Park in London this afternoon as temperatures warm up across the country

Cows are pictured in a field as early morning mist is seen at sunrise in Wiltshire today

Early morning mist partly covers up surrounding trees after sunrise in Wiltshire today

'It may be a bit chilly but it's going to warm up very quickly and very nicely.'

Dangerous rise in global temperatures above limit set by UN could arrive by 2026, scientists warn A dangerous rise in global temperatures above the 1.5C limit set by the UN could happen in just five years, warn scientists. There is a 40 per cent chance that annual temperature rises will go beyond the level set by the 2015 Paris Agreement, agreed to by 196 countries, it is claimed. The report published by the World Meteorological Organisation also warns of a very high likelihood  a 90 per cent chance  of at least one year between 2021 and 2025 becoming the warmest on record, outstripping 2016's record heat. Global average temperatures of 1.5C above 19th century levels are seen as a threshold beyond which the most dangerous impacts of climate change will be felt. Scientists warn that temperature rises above 1.5C will lead to more heatwaves, extreme rainstorms, water shortages and drought, greater economic losses and lower crop yields, higher sea levels and destruction of coral reefs. Advertisement

Some showers are expected to return Thursday evening and early on Friday morning before the warm weather returns just in time for the Bank Holiday weekend.

Next week, Brits can expect warm, settled conditions which are likely to persist across many areas from Monday. There is the potential for outbreaks of rain to arrive across parts of the northwest on Monday but it is then very uncertain how far south and east more unsettled conditions develop during next week.

While there is still likely to be a good deal of dry weather, showers, which could be heavy, become more likely across the south and west during the latter part of next week.

The Met Office predicts temperatures will most likely remain around or above average and by the end of the period, a northwest-southeast split in conditions becomes more probable.

Temperatures in London and the south are expected to stay above 68F over the next two weeks while there may be slightly cooler temperatures in the north.

Torrential downpours have led to the UK recording more than its average rainfall for May.

The UK has been gripped by persistent low pressure systems since the start of the month, with Wales and northern parts of England bearing the brunt of heavy rainfall and stormy conditions.

The Met Office said that up to Saturday the UK had seen 109.3mm of rainfall - 157 per cent of the long-term average for May.

This makes it the 10th wettest May on record, according to Met Office figures.

But meteorologist Dan Stroud said that the UK was unlikely to become the wettest May on record by surpassing the 131.7mm of rainfall in 1967.

Mr Stroud said: 'We are into late May, early June, so there's a fair amount of strength in the sun and it's going to feel very pleasant in the sunshine.'
Australia Post has stopped short of apologising to former chief executive Christine Holgate or heeding calls for the organisation's chairman to resign.

Senior executives from Australia Post faced a Senate estimates hearing on Thursday.

Their appearance came after a parliamentary inquiry into Ms Holgate's departure from Australia Post over the Cartier watches scandal.

A senate committee found Ms Holgate deserved an apology because she was denied procedural fairness and natural justice, but one has not been given

Australia Post's acting chief executive Rodney Boys acknowledged the inquiry's findings - but he stopped short of apologising to his predecessor Christina Holgate

The committee found Ms Holgate deserved an apology because she was denied procedural fairness and natural justice.

Senators called on the company's chairman to quit for his role in her departure.

Ms Holgate agreed with both recommendations.

Australia Post's acting chief executive Rodney Boys acknowledged the inquiry's findings.

'For the past three months, we have treated the inquiry seriously, and cooperated fully and extensively with the committee,' Mr Boys said in Canberra on Thursday.

'We are reviewing the report and its recommendations and intend to respond as appropriate.'

The committee was controlled by Labor and the Greens, with coalition members of the inquiry rejecting many of the recommendations.

Australia Post chair Lucio Di Bartolomeo released a statement after the report was handed down, indicating he had no intention to resign.

Mr Di Bartolomeo said Australia Post had cooperated fully and extensively with the committee and he was personally committed to continuing to lead the organisation.

Former Australia Post boss Christine Holgate is seen following the State Funeral for fashion designer Carla Zampattiat St Mary's Cathedral, in Sydney on April 15

'Ms Holgate was a very good chief executive for Australia Post and the organisation wishes her well for the future,' he said.

'Australia Post remains engaged in a mediation process with Ms Holgate around the circumstances of her departure from the organisation.

'With new CEO Paul Graham joining in coming months, Australia Post remains optimistic about its future and will continue working to improve capacity and reliability to better serve its customers.'

Ms Holgate told the inquiry the Australia Post chairman humiliated and fabricated evidence against her before pushing her out of the organisation.
What circumstances make you feel ineffective?

What attributes do you lack, that compared to others, makes you feel minuscule?

I know for me, not yet attaining a Masters degree, even though I really havent finalised an area of focus, makes me feel like I have not yet achieved academically. For each of us it is something different.

In a recent discussion I had, teaching a class on the story of David and Goliath, the confidence of David came alive.

Ordinary Man

The story of David and Goliath in 1 Samuel chapter 17 opens us up right into a battle zone.Yet when we are introduced to David, he is not described as a trained soldier, a great man of valour or a trained soldier in the Israelite army.

He was the last of eight brothers; a shepherd boy who was sent by his father to carry lunch for his brothers who were soldiers in the Israelite army. Nothing about this introduction strikes us as great, just an ordinary young man, obeying the instructions of his aged father. Isn't this how many of us view ourselves?

We are unknown, a member of a family doing nothing of great significance. Even those we consider famous or even great men and women in ministry sometimes consider themselves just ordinary. So why do we equate ordinary to irrelevance and unimportance?

If there is any lesson one can take from the story of David and Goliath, it is that our God uses ordinary men and women to do great works.

What makes ordinary  extraordinary?

It is those things we cant see on the inside of an individual that truly characterises who they are. The scripture in Matthew speaks to this.

What goes into someone's mouth does not defile them, but what comes out of their mouth that is what defiles them" (Matthew chapter 15 verse 11). What we say, how we speak, says volumes about who we truly are.

How we know that David was extraordinary, was his reaction to Goliath, the fiercest Philistine fighter who stood 9 feet tall. His stature didnt scare him, although it made the Israelite soldiers tremble. His qualifications as a trained soldier never stopped David from seeing him as an uncircumcised Philistine who would learn not to defy the living God.

Davids expressed confidence in God highlighted his commitment and experience, giving us, a great understanding of the character of a man he was; without fear, committed, totally convinced of Gods ability to deliver.

Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. (1 Samuel chapter 17 verse 36)

God Equips and Empowers

What we lack as individuals, most often than not, becomes the instrument we use to measure our qualification. Easily thoughts of, Im not the best speaker, Im not trained in that area or Ive never done that before, become the reason we never do something.

But look at David; nobody knew of his experience with Christ when He helped him conquer a lion and a bearyet for David this was enough to believe that He could conquer Goliath because His God had come through for Him when he was faced with adversity.

Why do you think God cant use you?

Why do you think that business idea or that task you felt led to do wont be successful?

Is it because you are untrained, unsuited for the task because you are Ordinary?

Well, remember David, was neither suited nor trained for war, he didnt even belong to the Israelite army yet God used him to defeat the Philistines best warrior not with a sword or armour but with the very thing David used as an ordinary shepherd - his sling shot and 5 pebbles.

Whats in your hand?

What do you have in your hand that God can use to defeat the giants of doubt, hopelessness, and that inferior mentality?

Davids confidence is admirable, not because he was young, or untrained or killed a lion and a bear but because he wholeheartedly believed in Gods ability to deliver the Israelites. It was God who would do it not himself.

The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine (1 Samuel chapter 17 verse 37).

His confidence was completely in God and his every decision would prove just how worthy His God was for him to boast about Him with such certainty.

All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lords, and he will give all of you into our hands (1 Samuel chapter 17 verse 47).

Where does your confidence lie?

My encouragement to us, as we allow God to order our steps, is never to limit the extraordinary work the Lord can do in our lives, because of our lack of traditional training. It is clear that Davids commitment to God, translated into experience with God hence his confidence in God.

Let your confidence lie in Jesus the Christ, as it is He, who makes what you consider ordinary and untrained into extra ordinary.
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Tens of thousands of people have been forced to evacuate the city of Goma after officials warned lava from nearby Mount Nyiragongo is underneath the streets and could erupt or spew poisonous gas at any moment.

Residents of ten neighbourhoods were were placed under mandatory evacuation orders on Thursday - told to pack only essentials so they could be loaded on to boats and buses, and taken to the town of Sake, 13 miles away.

It comes after Nyiragongo - one of the world's most-active volcanoes - erupted at the weekend, partially submerging the city of 670,000 in lava that killed at least 31 with 40 still missing, and left 20,000 homeless.

Entire neighbourhoods were buried in rock which has now begun to cool and solidify, but on Thursday experts warned that 'deformations' in the ground indicate there is more liquid magma underneath the city and under the surface of Lake Kirvu, on whose shores the city sits.

That magma could come boiling to the surface at any moment, military governor General Constant Ndima said, and if it mixes with the lake water could also create poisonous gas.

Tens of thousands of people are being forced to evacuate from Goma city in DR Congo after officials warned lava from a nearby erupting volcano is underneath the streets and could boil to the surface at any moment

Ten neighbourhoods of Goma - population 670,000 - are now under mandatory evacuation orders, with people told to bring only essentials on to boats which will take them to another town 13 miles away

People also packed on to Goma's rudimentary road network Thursday morning as they try to flee using any means available - including cars and bicycles (pictured above)

A long line forms as people carry their belongings as they evacuate from the city of Gomas following the eruption of Mount Nyiragongo on May 25

Traffic clogs one of the main roads through Goma as people attempt to flee the city after officials warned that lava is underneath the streets and could erupt without warning

Lava has also leaked underneath the bed of Lake Kirvu, on whose shores the city of Goma sits (pictured in the background), officials said - and could create poisonous gas if it mixes with the water

Around 20,000 people in Goma had already been left homeless by the eruption - which began on Saturday - and had been relying on state aid to survive (pictured, people wait to sign up for aid packages)

Mount Nyiragongo is one of the world's most-active volcanoes and an eruption at the weekend killed at least 31 with 40 missing and left some 20,000 people homeless (pictured, homeless people wait for aid packages)

People left homeless by the eruption in Goma wait to register to receive some aid distributed by a local politician and businessman, after thousands of homes were destroyed

Aid workers take people's names and details so they can be provided with aid following the volcanic eruption in Goma

Boats are packed with people who have been told to evacuate their homes at Goma's main port, so they can be sailed to the nearby town of Sake. Many others have fled across the border into Rwanda

'Current data on seismicity and the deformation of the ground indicate the presence of magma under the urban area of Goma, with an extension under Lake Kivu,' he said in a public broadcast Thursday morning.

General Ndmia also spoke of 'destabilisation of the volume of gas dissolved in Lake Kivu and the emission of potentially dangerous gases at the surface'.

'Right now we can't rule out an eruption on land or under the lake, which could happen very soon and without warning. The situation can change rapidly, and is being constantly monitored,' he added.

Photos from Goma this morning showed crowds of people packing on to boats to take them away from Goma, as traffic blocked the city's rudimentary road network with people fleeing in cars and on bicycles.

'People should take the bare minimum with them, to make sure everyone has a chance to get on,' General Ndmia added.

Mount Nyiragongo began erupting on Saturday and continued spewing lava throughout the weekend, burying parts of Goma in molten rock as people from nearby villages rushed to take selfies

The eruption at Mount Nyiragongo is seen from the Rwandan side of the border, where thousands of people from DR Congo have fled after their homes were destroyed

An aerial view shows lava flowing from the volcanic eruption of Mount Nyiragongo near Goma on Saturday

While some headed towards Sake, many others crossed the nearby border into Rwanda, where it is thought thousands more have already fled since the weekend eruption.

The United Nations says 32 people have died and at least 3,000 homes were destroyed after the volcano erupted on Saturday.

The UN humanitarian affairs office OCHA said 24 of the victims were burned alive by lava, adding that 40 adults have been reported missing.

By the time the eruption ended on Sunday the volcano had spewed out two rivers of molten rock, one of which came to halt on the edge of Goma after obliterating villages in its wake.

Goma, a lakeshore city of 1.5 million people, lies around a dozen kilometres (eight miles) from the volcano.

Local volcanologists have recorded hundreds of aftershocks since Nyiragongo roared back into life, including 119 on Monday alone.

A so-called strato-volcano nearly 3,500 metres (11,500 feet) high, Nyiragongo straddles the East African Rift tectonic divide. Its last major eruption, in 2002, claimed around 100 lives.

Residents carry goods on their backs while they cross a lava covered field in Buhene, north of Goma on May 25

A man salvages for his belongings in the aftermath of the eruption of the Nyiragongo volcano on May 24

A woman prepares to evacuate from her home, which appears to be scorched from the lava deposited by the eruption on May 25

Residents displaced by theMount Nyiragongo volcanic eruption wait to register to receive some aid distributed by a local politician and businessman in Goma on May 26

The devastating impact of the volcanic eruption can be seen in this image, with houses and land ruined as families prepare to evacuate

People carry their belongings in bags on their heads as they walk through the muddy lanscape to escape from Goma

As residents of Goma struggle to get by following the Mount Nyiragongo eruption, the city has also been shaken by a series of powerful after-shocks that have cracked roads

Women sit down to eat next to a church in Sake after fleeing the eruption of the Nyiragongo volcano in Goma on May 24

Goma residents carry few belongings after an evacuation order has been given on May 27

Goma residents carry few belongings as they hurry to leave the city after an evacuation order has been given on May 27

Congolese residents of Goma arrive in Rwanda after fleeing from Mount Nyiragongo volcano as it erupted over Goma

A woman who lost her home looks on after arriving in Sake in the aftermath of the eruption of the Nyiragongo volcano in Goma on May 24

People gather on a stream of cold lava rock following the overnight eruption of Mount Nyiragongo in Goma, Sunday, May 23
The Victorian government is likely to grant an exemption to its latest lockdown rules for the funeral of an eight-year-old boy who died while on school camp.

Cooper Onyett drowned at a Port Fairy indoor swimming pool last week while on his first overnight camp with his grade two class from Merrivale Primary School.

His family are due to hold his funeral in their hometown of Warrnambool, 250km west of Melbourne, on Friday - the first day of the state's seven-day lockdown.

Cooper Onyett (pictured) was attending his first overnight school camp with his grade two class when he drowned

Under the restrictions, funerals are restricted to 10 mourners, plus those required to conduct the service.

Cooper's mother Skye Meinen said she was 'shocked and angered' the restrictions affect regional Victoria, where there have been no positive cases of COVID-19.

'We really need support tomorrow from family and friends to get us through this,' she tearfully told 3AW radio on Thursday.

'We've all been so strong ... it would be detrimental to rip away the support that we've all welcomed and needed. It's not something that we need right now.'

Cooper Onyett (middle) with his family who say they need the support of their family and friends at the funeral

Ms Meinen said she was open to holding the funeral outdoors with masks to allow for more mourners.

Acting Premier James Merlino said he had asked the public health team to contact the family to discuss a possible exemption.

'This is a particularly tragic case ... it's every parent's worst nightmare - giving your kids a kiss, they're excited to go off to camp and then we have this tragic incident,' he told reporters on Thursday.

Mr Merlino said it would be up to the public health team to make an exemption.

'But we do have extenuating circumstances,' he said.

A GoFundMe page set up to help the family cover Cooper's funeral costs has already raised more than $95,000.

Cooper Onyett's (pictured) funeral is scheduled to be held at the Wannon Rooms Function centre in Woornamble on Friday at 11am
Illegal migrants who have overstayed their visa will have access to benefits such as the NHS automatically restricted under new plans to revolutionise the UK's border controls.

The plans, which were published on Monday, involve the introduction of digital visas which could come into effect as soon as 2025 and would allow the Government to restrict access to 'benefits, services and work' if their visa has expired.

The digitisation of the country's borders will allow different Government departments to share real-time data with each other and even with employers.

The Government believes the changes will reduce 'the major pull factors for illegal migration'.

The document states: 'The accuracy and richness of operational data captured with the new model for digitising the border will enable greater certainty on whether a person is in or out of the UK at any given point in time.

Illegal migrants who have overstayed their visa will have access to benefits such as the NHS automatically 'switched off' under new plans to revolutionise the UK's border controls

The use of automation to generate, or update, a digital status from a border crossing outcome event will enable the ability to accurately calculate and share a persons status with third parties and other Government departments that give access to benefits, services and work to those who are eligible.

It will also deny them to those here illegally or without the necessary entitlements, reducing the major pull factors for illegal migration.'

The document states an online service will be used to prove immigrants' right to work or right to rent.

It will also allow system to system sharing of information with other government departments to enable access to public services such as the NHS.

In an overhaul of border control, digital visas will allow Government departments to share data that can be used to prove immigrants' rights to work or receive benefits and access to the NHS

The changes mean that departments such as the DWP would be able to automatically check an applicant's immigration status before approving universal credit payments, for example.

Similarly, job applicants would no longer be required to prove their status because employers would already have access to the information.

The Government says the work towards a digital system for immigration status will 'reduce costs and improve border security by reducing the possibility of forgery or theft' of identity documents.

Priti Patel dodged the question of whether her major overhaul of the UK's immigration system will result in an increase or decrease in annual net migration when announcing the plans on Monday.

On Monday Home Secretary Priti Patel (pictured) promised the wholesale reform of the UK's 'broken' immigration system as she unveiled plans for a 'fully digital border' within five years

The Home Secretary vowed to 'fix' the 'broken' system as she claimed public confidence in British border control had been 'shot to pieces' in recent decades.

She hailed the introduction of the UK's new Australia-style points-based immigration system and confirmed a crackdown on people arriving in Britain illegally as she said it is a 'sheer fantasy to say that we can give a home to anyone'.

But she refused to be drawn on whether the overhaul will see net migration go up or down as she said she did not want to 'get into the language of old'.

Responding to a question on the issue after her speech, Ms Patel added: This is not about the language of old and I am not going to get into that at all and of course on numbers, well, I think the big news actually is through the reform and my plans is that we will have greater accuracy on numbers.

We will be able to count in and count out who is in our country for the first time ever so we dont have to work around the hypotheticals around net migration targets or numbers or things of that nature and even speculate about whether or not numbers will go up and down.
The Royal Navy today categorically denied Russian claims that a British destroyer was 'expelled' from the Crimean coast by Vladimir Putin's forces.

The alleged incident took place in October off the coast of Crimea but has only been made public now.

Moscow claimed that HMS Dragon ignored 'warnings' not to enter 'Russian territorial waters' and warplanes and ships were dispatched to move her along.

The Ministry of Defence told MailOnline the claim 'is categorically untrue.'

'HMS Dragon was taking the most direct route between two port visits, navigating a recognised safe route for all international shipping within Ukrainian waters,' the spokesman said.

'The Russian Federation Navy did not impede HMS Dragons passage. She navigated without incident, exercising our right of innocent passage under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea,' he added.

Russia's security service claims the Royal Navy destroyer HMS Dragon (pictured) was 'expelled' from waters off of Crimea after crossing into Russian territory

Moscow claimed that HMS Dragon ignored 'warnings' not to enter 'Russian territorial waters' and warplanes and ships were dispatched to move her along. The Ministry of Defence today told MailOnline the claim 'is categorically untrue'

HMS Trent (pictured) is already patrolling in the Black Sea and has been to the Ukrainian port of Odessa, which HMS dragon visited last year to hold training exercises with the Ukrainian navy

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It comes after General Vladimir Kulishov, deputy director of Russia's FSB, claimed that the vessel ignored 'warnings' not to enter 'Russian territorial waters'.

'The destroyer Dragon of the British Navy crossed the state border of the Russian Federation in the area of Cape Khersones in the Black Sea,' the counterintelligence chief said.

'The destroyer's captain responded with a poor signal to the demand to immediately leave Russian territorial waters.

'As a result of the joint actions with the Russian Navy and the Russian Aerospace Forces, the warship was expelled into neutral waters,' Kulishov said.

The Type 45 destroyer HMS Dragon had claimed the right of innocent passage in waters near the westernmost point of Sevastopol, he said.

Sevastopol is the site of the headquarters of the Russian Black Sea Fleet. Kulishov added that Russia saw the ship's actions as 'unfriendly'.

Russia is known to have previously deployed submarine Veliky Novogorod to track HMS Dragon.

It is unclear why the FSB has gone public with the alleged October dispute now.

However, the news comes amid reports that the United Kingdom is sending two further warships to the Black Sea.

HMS Trent is already patrolling in the sea and has been to the Ukrainian port of Odessa, which HMS Dragon visited last year to hold training exercises with the Ukrainian navy.

The FSB revealed the dispute as Russia staged its latest missile tests in the Black Sea amid continuing tension with neighbouring Ukraine

Frigate Admiral Grigorovich fired the anti-aircraft missile system Shtil and tested anti-ship missile systems Bal and Utes.

More than 30 ships were deployed to close a large area of the sea to navigation during the war game.

Reports Ukraine said HMS Trent is to remain in Odessa until 4 June and is 'preparing the ground' for the arrival of a Royal Navy destroyer and a frigate.

The crew are training with the Ukrainian navy and asserting the country's 'independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty' amid deeply strained relations with Russia.

The UK and other Western countries do not acknowledge Russia's sovereignty over Crimea, which it annexed in 2014, prompting several countries to impose sanctions.

In recent months, tensions mounted once more as Russia massed tens of thousands of troops on the border with Ukraine, triggering fears of a potential land invasion.

Russia later withdrew many of the troops but still has a reported 100,000 along its western border with Ukraine.

Some 13,000 people have been killed in fighting between Ukrainian forces and Russia-backed separatists since 2014.
Victoria's top doctor has angrily jumped to the defence of contact tracers as the state battles to contain a coronavirus outbreak from spreading.

The state will be plunged into a seven day 'circuit breaker' from midnight Thursday in response to a growing cluster of the highly infectious Indian strain which has soared to 26 cases, after 11 new infections overnight.

It is the state's fourth lockdown since the pandemic began in March 2020 and sparked a fiery press conference when announced by the Victorian government on Thursday.

The outbreak began when an Australian who returned from overseas, without the virus, contracted it in Adelaide's hotel quarantine - before testing negative and flying home to Melbourne on May 4.

Chief health officer Dr Brett Sutton uncharacteristically snapped after a journalist grilled him as to why the state was 'getting contact tracing so wrong'.

The usually calm and composed top doctor, who has won legions of fans during the pandemic who gush over his every word on Facebook groups, delivered a fiery response.

Victoria's chief health officer Professor Brett Sutton was forced to defend the work of contact workers on Thursday. Pictured are health workers at a testing clinic

'It is an absurd proposition that contact tracing has gone wrong,' Professor Sutton said.

'We have talked about exactly what the contact tracing team have done here and it is extraordinary.'

'Contact tracing is an integral part of how to get control. It does not do magic.'

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'When an individual is not infectious and happens to have breached out of hotel quarantine and they are in the community, if they are not infectious, there is nothing to respond to.'

Professor Sutton later doubled down on his defence of contact tracers in an angry Twitter rant.

'I think I've been pretty calm over the last 16 months and I hope I've always been respectful. But I will get fired up when contact tracers are attacked.

'They do extraordinary work and do it brilliantly. 10,000 contacts found! The false narrative hurts real people, mentally,' he tweeted.

'Now is not the time to try to find an imaginary scapegoat. It's the time to support Victorians going through another really tough time. We know what to do now and we'll do it like no other. You've gotta love Victorians for how we support each other.'

A question as to why Victoria state was 'getting contact tracing so wrong' sparked an angry response from the state's Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton (pictured)

Opinion was divided over Professor Sutton's defence of contact tracers.

Many Victorians took the opportunity to give Professor Sutton and contact tracers their support.

'Were with you Brett, Im so proud of the way you handled that this morning, that person should be ashamed of themselves. We got this, thank you for bearing this huge burden most of us understand it isnt easy,' one woman commented.

But others disagreed and used the recent example where contact tracers identified the wrong Woolworths store as an exposure site visited by an infected case.

Another added: 'I did extraordinary work too before I lost my job due to Covid outbreaks in Victoria.. a key part of my work was attention to detail and double checking to make sure I had all information correct,' one man commented.

Opinion was divided over Professor Sutton's tweet defending contact tracers

Other pointed to blame not at contract tracers but at government officials.

'I don't think it's the CT's fault, it's the system run by your team. Oh, that's right it's just 'bad luck' that it got out of hand again give Gladys (NSW Premier) a buzz please,' one Victorian commented.

Another added: 'It's not on them, it's your system, and your refusal to take any ownership of this outbreak locally is infuriating. The QR system your implementing now won't fix the fact we're not checking in to supermarkets and that would solve the Epping issue. Take ownership and fix it please

Professor Sutton wasn't the only one to come under fire at Thursday's press conference, where Acting Premier James Merlino also faced a heated grilling from journalists who demanded answers.

'We've had twelve months to get this right,' Sky News journalist Julia Bradley told Mr Merlino.

Huge queues have been seen at Covid-19 testing sites in Melbourne (pictured on Thursday) as the outbreak grew yet again

'No other state has been in this position. Every state has bars and areas where it is easy to transmit virus. Why is Victoria in this position and why are Victorians the ones paying the price?'

Mr Merlino responded by changing the subject - praising the work of contact tracers and taking a subtle swipe at South Australia.

'We are continually proving how we respond to the pandemic and I go back to the work that our contact tracers have been doing with this particular outbreak that originated from a hotel quarantine breach in SA,' Mr Merlino responded.

He also dodged the question of whether the state government took any responsibility for Victorians being hit with another lockdown.
160 people are feared drowned in northwest Nigeria after an overloaded boat ferrying passengers to a market sank in the Niger River.

Authorities have confirmed that at least four people have died, 20 were rescued alive and 156 remain missing.

The boat was travelling on Wednesday between central Niger state and Wara in northwest Kebbi state when it sank, National Inland Waterways Authority local manager Yusuf Birma told reporters.

'The boat capacity was not up to the 180 passengers it carried,' Birma said.

160 people are feared drowned in northwest Nigeria after an overloaded boat ferrying passengers to a market sank in the Niger River. Scene is pictured above

Authorities have confirmed that at least four people have died, 20 were rescued alive and 156 remain missing

'As we speak, only 20 people have been rescued alive, four dead confirmed while the remaining 156 people are still missing and they are believed to be underwater.'

President Muhammadu Buhari said the accident was 'devastating' and offered his condolences to families, though his statement gave no official total of the number of casualities.

Boat tragedies are common on Nigerian waterways mostly due to overcrowding, bad weather and lack of maintenance, but Wednesday's toll would be one of the deadliest recent accidents.

President Muhammadu Buhari said the accident was 'devastating' and offered his condolences to families

The boat was travelling on Wednesday between central Niger state and Wara in northwest Kebbi state when it sank

Birma said passengers were heading to a market in Malele in Borgu local government area of Niger state, when the boat sank an hour into the journey.

'The boat involved was a wooden boat which was old and very weak but these people (skippers) would not listen when we sensitised them to reduce the number of passengers they carry in their boats,' he said.

Local district administrator Abdullahi Buhari Wara earlier blamed the accident on overloading as the boat was meant to ferry no more than 80 passengers.

The vessel was also loaded with bags of sand from a gold mine, he said.

Birma said passengers were heading to a market in Malele in Borgu local government area of Niger state, when the boat sank an hour into the journey

Early this month 30 people drowned when an overloaded boat capsized in Niger state.

The boat ferrying 100 local traders split into two after hitting a stump during a storm as they were returning from a local market, according to emergency officials.

The Niger is West Africa's main river running in a crescent through Guinea to Nigeria's Niger Delta and is a key local trade route for some of the countries.
Two British killer whales which appeared off Cornwall's coast were the most southerly ever recorded in half a century, experts have confirmed.

Orcas John Coe and Aquarius were spotted at Porthgwarra near Land's End at the tip of Cornwall earlier this month.

Charities including The Sea Watch Foundation, Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust and the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group have confirmed this as the most southerly point they have ever been recorded in the five decades their movements have been tracked.

It was also the first sighting of this famous pair of killer whales off England's coast, as they are usually found around west Scotland.

Within a matter of days however the pair had swam back to the Hebrides, and were spotted by Anthony Rigell from Waternish Point on the Isle of Skye on May 14, around 550 miles north of Porthgwarra.

Two British killer whales which appeared off Cornwall's coast were the most southerly ever recorded in half a century, experts have confirmed. Pictured: An orca named Aquarius spotted at Porthgwarra near Land's End on May 5

Then on May 17 they were spotted off Lochboisdale, South Uist from the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust's research vessel Silurian.

The whales are a West Coast community with sightings recorded largely along the west coasts of Scotland and Wales and all around Ireland.

Most sightings have been recorded in the Hebrides off the Scottish west coast, although John Coe has also occasionally been seen even off the north-east coast of Scotland.

The previous confirmed sighting of the pair was reported off Skye in the Inner Hebrides in October 2020, whilst in Ireland, John Coe was last seen off the coast of Co Donegal in August 2020.

The lockdown during the winter months has meant that fewer people than normal were out at sea and around our coasts and as a result the charities have received a smaller number of sightings from the public than normal in the last 18 months.

Whale observation groups confirmed this as the most southerly point they have ever been recorded in the five decades their movements have been tracked. It was also the first sighting of this famous pair of killer whales off England's coast, as they are usually found around west Scotland. Pictured: John Coe sighted back in Scotland

Dr Lauren Hartny-Mills, Science and Conservation Manager at the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust, monitors sightings of the group off the west coast of Scotland: 'We are all absolutely thrilled that John Coe and Aquarius have been seen again.

'The recent sighting off Cornwall really highlights how crucial public sightings data are in helping us monitor the movements of individual animal's year after year.

'It shows how much we still have to learn about their movement and it is fascinating to be able to add another important piece to the puzzle.

'Most of what we know about animals like John Coe and Aquarius is thanks to dedicated members of the public who send in their sightings and photographs of whales and dolphins to citizen science sightings schemes run by regional charities like Whale Track by Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust.'

John Coe is one of the most distinctive killer whales seen around the British Isles with a deep nick near the base of his dorsal fin and fluke.

'Many people ask how John Coe got his name,' said Dr Peter Evans, Director of Sea Watch Foundation who has been tracking sightings of killer whales around the British Isles since the 1970s.

'It is the name of a character in a book called Mile Zero by Thomas Sanchez about a freed slave who became a student of the sea.

The whales are a West Coast community with sightings recorded largely along the west coasts of Scotland and Wales and all around Ireland

'It seemed a fitting name for this great wanderer of the ocean who must know the waters around Britain and Ireland better than most.'

During the 1980s, John Coe was spotted within groups that numbered up to twenty individuals but numbers have dwindled.

In the 1990s the largest group in which John Coe was seen was fourteen and in the subsequent decades this declined further going from ten down to eight in recent years following the death of two of the individuals.

Since 2016, these two individual males John Coe and Aquarius have not been seen with any other killer whales and no calves have been recorded since monitoring began.

Killer whales continue to be threatened in particular from pollutants.

These are not the only killer whales seen in British and Irish waters though and sightings of other groups and individuals have been recorded in English waters.

A number of groups of killer whales are frequently seen in Scottish waters as depicted in the recently published Scottish Killer Whale Photo identification Catalogue 2021.

Dr Peter Evans said: 'In an average year, around 50% of Irish killer whale sightings are confirmed by IWDG to be of John Coe and others from this remnant group.

'Seeing this apex predator in local waters is always special, but encounters with the West Coast Community Group stand out because of their long history around these isles.

'John Coe is a symbol of both the Oceans' power and fragility, and their declining numbers reminds us that we need to do much more to protect our marine ecosystems.'

'Together we make a plea for members of the public to send us photographs of any killer whales they see around Britain and Ireland so we can continue to track individuals.

'If you have seen John Coe or any other orcas around Britain and Ireland, do let us know.

'The three organisations work closely together to study and conserve all cetacean species in the region in collaboration with citizen scientists everywhere.'

With marine mammals at risk from human activities including climate change, entanglement, pollution, underwater noise and habitat degradation, ongoing and long-term research is crucial to improve understanding of the impacts on cetaceans, and how to protect them.

Killer whales can be seen over a wide area of British and Irish waters but mainly in the north and west.
At least 22 people have been killed - 13 of whom were beheaded - by ISIS fanatics in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Militants from the Allied Democratic Forces attacked villagers near the town of Beni, in the country's northeast, late Tuesday, the country's military says.

An unspecified number of women and children are among the dead, officials said, adding that bodies are still being recovered from the surrounding jungle.

Several more villagers are thought to have been kidnapped, but the exact number of missing is unclear.

At least 22 people, including women and children, have been killed in a raid by Islamist militants known as the Allied Democratic Forces in DR Congo (file image, Congolese troops examine a village after an ADF raid in February 2020)

Aid workers in the area told reporters that at least 13 of the victims had been bound and decapitated.

A four-month-old baby was found alive on the back of one of the victims and is thought to have been orphaned, along with their six brothers and sisters.

The body of their mother has yet to be found.

The attack comes three weeks after the military declared martial law in two provinces neighbouring Uganda - including the one where this latest attack to place - in response to rising violence.

On May 17, Uganda announced it had agreed to share intelligence and coordinate operations against the rebels, but that it would not be deploying troops in Congo.

Many of the attacks have been blamed on the ADF, a militant group based out of Uganda that has been active in DR Congo since at least 1995.

The group traces its roots to a group of ultra-conservative Muslim clerics that formed in Uganda in the 1980s, before developing a military wing that was ultimately smashed in a raid by government forces under then-President Yoweri Museveni.

Several dozen fighters survived the raid including a man named Jamil Mukulu - a former Catholic who converted to Islam and is believed to have met Osama bin Laden - who fled across the border to DR Congo and established the ADF.

Machete-wielding militants attack a village near the town of Beni on Tuesday evening, massacring at least 22 people while kidnapping an unknown number of others

The group's stated aim is to overthrow the Ugandan government and found an Islamic state in its place.

The ADF launched its first attack in 1996 on a border outpost in Uganda - according to researchers from Antwerp University - and has since fought against the Ugandan and Congolese militaries, which have failed to eradicate it.

Some time around May 2019 the group is thought to have allied itself to ISIS, after the terror organisation began claiming responsibility for its attacks.

In March this year the US declared the ADF a terrorist organisation, referring to it as ISIS-Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The State Department said it was responsible for the killings of 849 civilians in 2020 - with around 500 more killed since the start of this year, aid groups say.

The last bloodshed blamed on the ADF left 31 dead on May 12 northwest of Beni.

The ADF is currently led by a man named Seka Musa Baluku and is thought to control a series of hidden camps which function as a proto-state with a population of around 2,000 people.

The camps include 'an internal security service, a prison, health clinics, and an orphanage', according to a Washington Post report in 2015.
A 'townie' couple who gave up their careers to retire to the Lake District say they are living in fear amid a legal battle with their neighbours over parking outside their house, a court heard.

Former accountant Bridget Kelly, who retired to the 50-strong village of Rosgill in the Lake District with her partner Richard Wozniak six years ago, is now suing a neighbour for 40,000 in a libel battle.

Dr Wozniak, who was a private dentist in Fleet, Hampshire, retired to develop his passion for wildlife photography while Ms Kelly took up bell-ringing at a nearby church.

The couple say they toiled for months to transform Abbott House, which is believed to have cost around 300,000, from a dilapidated wreck into their dream home.

But within two years of moving into their three-bed cottage, they were at the centre of a community row over the public's right to park and drive around a small triangular patch of grass and track in front of their house.

Former accountant Bridget Kelly (left), who retired to the 50-strong village of Rosgill in the Lake District with her partner Richard Wozniak six years ago, is now suing their neighbour Chloe Randall (right) for 40,000 in a libel battle

Neighbour and campaigner Ms Randall insists the patch of grass (pictured) - which the incoming couple say they own - is a 'village green' which residents of Rosgill and surrounding villages have been 'accustomed to using...for hundreds of years. Pictured: A screenshot from Ms Randall's blog

Neighbour and campaigner Chloe Randall insists the patch of grass - which the incoming couple say they own - is a 'village green' which residents of Rosgill and surrounding villages have been 'accustomed to using...for hundreds of years.'

She went on to set up an online blog titled 'Concerned of Rosgill', on which the couple say she branded them 'social pariahs' and 'townies' and accused them of being 'bullies and liars'.

Now Ms Kelly and her partner are suing their neighbour, claiming 40,000 libel damages over the blog, which they say ruined their standing locally and led to them being ostracised and left out of community events.

'All we wanted - and still want - is to be left in peace to enjoy our property,' Ms Kelly told High Court judge, Mr Justice Soole.

But Ms Randall, an administrator and woollen tie maker, denies libel, accusing the couple in court of 'years of harassment of members of the village and beyond' in what she termed 'The Battle for Rosgill Green'.

The court heard that Ms Kelly and Dr Wozniak previously lived in Hampshire, where Dr Wozniak had his private dental practice, before setting himself up as a wildlife photographer, venturing to remote areas of Africa to shoot exotic animals.

The area of land in dispute is the triangle of grass at the centre of this picture which villagers say has been used as common land for 'hundreds of years, but Kelly and Wozniak believe they own

Following his retirement and with Ms Kelly, who had worked for Price Waterhouse Cooper before qualifying as an accountant, working part time, they sold up and eventually moved to Rosgill in 2015 to pursue their country dreams.

Ms Kelly told the court that they had only been in the north for a matter of months when friction began with campaigners over public use of the land the couple claim is theirs.

They were accused of having 'colonised' the 'green' and endured a number of incidents including people mowing the patch, blocking their access, and driving a 4x4 over it, she told Mr Justice Soole.

Ms Kelly added that she and her partner were also told they 'would be dealt with by 'community law' and that we would not be made welcome in the community'.

The bad feeling over the 'green' came to a head with Ms Randall's online blog, set up in 2017, on which the couple claim she posted a series of nine libellous posts in 2019.

One posting refers to 'townies' turning the countryside into a 'retirement park' and suggests that the couple did not understand the alleged long use of the patch as a community space.

Dr Wozniak and Ms Kelly say they were accused online of stealing land, 'brainwashing' a vulnerable local into their camp, acting like 'liars, thieves and bullies' and 'spitefully' attempting to block the track.

And they say the offending posts unjustly branded them 'social pariahs in Rosgill' - although they still have friends there - as well as labelling them 'hypocrites and idiots'.

Both say the posts took a devastating toll on their reputations and enjoyment of life in the quiet village which they had thought would be a haven for them.

'The defamatory statements posted by Ms Randall have made me personally feel humiliated, embarrassed and harassed to the extent that they have actually ruined my life,' said Ms Kelly.

Pictured: Ms Randall's blog Concerned of Rosgill

Now Ms Kelly and her partner are suing their neighbour, claiming 40,000 libel damages over the blog, which they say ruined their standing locally and led to them being ostracised and left out of community events. Pictured: The triangular patch of grass which is the alleged village green

'Abbott House was very much our 'dream home' but the activities of Ms Randall have made me feel like a prisoner in my own house.

'At times I have been too frightened to go outside for fear that Ms Randall or one of her supporters might be there.

'Whereas I was once eager to engage in community activities, I now think twice before joining in for fear that other attenders have seen the comments made about us, and view us in a negative light.'

Ms Kelly says that, although they claim ownership of the patch of grass, they were always happy to share use of the track, and never intended to fall out with anyone.

But Ms Randall denies libel and says the 'Concerned of Rosgill' blog developed in tandem with her efforts to have the track alongside the green designated a public bridleway and to boost the campaign in 'the battle for Rosgill Green'.

She says the area has been used by the whole community for generations and 'is widely known as Rosgill Village Green', telling the judge: 'The village has for hundreds of years been accustomed to using this piece of ground...for access, farming, leisure and commercial purposes.'

At the time the blog was set up, she was pursuing a right of way application with the local council, which ultimately led to the track alongside the green being declared a bridleway, she said.

She had intended the blog to 'remind the community of the lengths to which the claimants have demonstrated that they are prepared to go in pursuit of their determination to have exclusive use of the disputed ground.'

'Various individuals and bodies tried to explain the historic use of the land, but the claimants seem unable to accept that any activity of any sort has ever taken place in Rosgill prior to their arrival,' she added.

She said the couple's exclusion from parts of village life - including not being invited to a local councillor's Christmas party - were nothing to do with the blog posts.

'Richard and Bridget's extraordinary campaign has led to their exclusion from a number of village events, hence the comment that they are social pariahs,' she said.

Dr Wozniak and Ms Kelly had made repeated efforts to block access to the track and grass patch, which provide a convenient turning circle for villagers, she claimed.

She also claimed in court the couple had installed CCTV, reshaped the track, spooked cattle, and tried to 'criminalise the reputations of so many in the community'.

The trial continues.
Caitlyn Jenner slammed Gavin Newsom for 'destroying hope' in California and taxing people 'to death' amid her bid to become the state's governor.

Jenner, 71, said Gov Newsom, 53, has 'destroyed' the western state's economy through taxation while speaking on Fox's America's Newsroom on Wednesday.

Explaining why she plans to run for Governor of California, Jenner said she wants to 'restore hope' and make people feel 'good' about the state.

Slamming the current governor's policies, she said: 'I want to restore hope in California. Under Gavin Newsom, honestly he has absolutely destroyed hope [...] What I want to do is bring back hope and make people feel good about what's going on in California and change things.'

Jenner announced her bid to become Governor of California in April, ahead of the recall election, which is likely to take place in November.

Caitlyn Jenner has slammed Gavin Newsom for 'destroying hope' in California and taxing people 'to death' while speaking on Fox's America's Newsroom on Wednesday (pictured)

The retired Olympic decathlete has previously launched attacks on Democrat Newsom for an 'over restrictive' Covid lockdown and his 'elitist' attitude.

The former husband of Kardashian matriarch Kris, is a registered Republican. She voted for Trump in 2016 but not in 2020, in protest against his position on transgender issues.

Speaking on America's Newsroom's first in-studio interview since the start of the Covid-19 crisis, Jenner slammed California's taxation levels, which are the highest in America.

Jenner, who described herself as an 'inclusive Republican' in terms of social issues, argued that taxation has 'destroyed the economy' and said California has been 'taxed to death'.

She continued: 'You have to look at the economy. You have to look at what Gavin Newsom has done over the years. He's destroyed the economy, through regulations, through taxation.'

California has 13.3 per cent top personal income tax rate, 8.84 per cent top corporate tax and more than 60 per cent tax on gasoline, according to Fox News.

Jenner, 71, said Gov Newsom (pictured), 53, has 'destroyed' California's economy through taxation amid her bid to become Governor of the state

Explaining why she plans to run for Governor, Jenner (above) argued that she wants to 'restore hope' and make people feel 'good' about California as she slammed Newsom's policies

Jenner also hit out at the regulations imposed on business in California as she discussed people leaving the state in droves due to cost of living and other issues.

She explained: 'The other thing that's killing it is regulations. We have 21.2million words of regulations on the businesses and citizens of California. That has to stop.'

In 2020, California's population fell by 182,083, which is the first time that the state's year-over-year population has dropped, according to ABC7.

Jenner instead called for a 'fair' tax system that was 'competitive' with other states, which she argued would see less businesses move out of the state.

But she was quick to add that she believes a 'zero corporate tax rate', like is in place in Florida and some other states, was 'not realistic' for California.

MailOnline has contacted Gavin Newsom's representatives for comment.

Her comments come after she recruited a team of former MAGA chiefs to help her oust Gavin Newsom amid her bid to become Governor of California.

Jenner is also being assisted by Caroline Wren, who previously worked at Trump Victory, a joint fundraising committee for President Trump's 2020 campaign.

Earlier this week, she was seen heading for dinner in New York with former Trump campaign guru Brad Parscale and her business partner Sophia Hutchins, 24, who is assisting in the 'Caitlyn for California' campaign.

The poll on whether to recall Newsom is set to take place sometime this year after the required number of signatures were collected.

Voters will be asked whether they want to recall Newsom. If a majority say yes, he'll be ousted from office. They'll also be asked to choose a replacement governor on the same ballot, with the candidate who gets the most votes winning.

The recall election comes amid growing calls by Republicans to oust Newsom. If a Republican wins, it will be the first time they have held the state since 2003, when Arnold Schwarzenegger won.

Jenner also hit out at the regulations imposed on business in California as she discussed people leaving the state in droves due to cost of living and other issues

Former San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer, former U.S. Rep. Doug Ose and businessman John Cox, who lost to Newsom in the 2018 governor's race, are also running.

A member of Jenner's team previously told Axios: 'She's running as someone that's socially liberal and fiscally conservative.'

Announcing her plans to run on Instagram last month, Jenner said: 'I'm in! California has been my home for nearly 50 years. I came here because I knew that anyone, regardless of their background or station in life, could turn their dreams into reality.

'But for the past decade, we have seen the glimmer of the Golden State reduced by one-party rule that places politics over progress and special interests over people. Sacramento needs an honest leader with a clear vision.

'I have been a compassionate disrupter throughout my life, from representing the United States and winning a gold medal at the Olympics to helping advance the movement for equality.

'As Californians, we face a now-or-never opportunity to fundamentally fix our state before it's too late.

'Taking on entrenched Sacramento politicians and the special interests that fund them requires a fighter who isn't afraid to do what's right.

'I am a proven winner and the only outsider who can put an end to Gavin Newsom's disastrous time as governor.

'This will be a campaign of solutions, providing a roadmap back to prosperity to turn this state around and finally clean up the damage Newsom has done to this state.

'Small businesses have been devastated because of the over-restrictive lockdown.

'An entire generation of children have lost a year of education and have been prevented from going back to school.

'Taxes are too high, killing jobs, hurting families and putting an especially heavy burden on our most vulnerable people.

Jenner (pictured in January 2020) announced her bid to become Governor of California in April, ahead of the recall election, which is likely to take place in November

Caitlyn (second right), who transitioned at the age of 65, was previously married to Kris Jenner (left) from 1991-2015 and they share two children, Kendall (third left) and Kylie (far right)

'This is Gavin Newsom's California, where he orders us to stay home but goes out to dinner with his lobbyist friends,' she said.

She was referring to a November incident where Newsom, after shutting down the state and telling everyone not to socialize, was pictured dining indoors at luxury restaurant The French Laundry with a group of at least 10 people for a friend's birthday.

It was previously reported that neither Kim nor her famous family would publicly endorse Caitlyn's bid to become Governor of California.

Kim actually agrees more with Newsom's approach to crime which favors rehabilitation and support for prisoners re-entering society, in addition to investing in crime prevention.

And in the past Kim had said she was 'very supportive of Governor Newsom' and his work to remove the death penalty in California. He ordered a moratorium on executions in spring of 2019.

Caitlyn, who transitioned at the age of 65, was previously married to Kris Jenner from 1991-2015 and Linda Thompson from 1981-1986.

She shares two children with Kris - Kendall and Kylie - and has sons Brody and Brandon Jenner with ex-wife Linda.

Caitlyn was also previously married to Chrystie Jenner from 1972-1981 and has a son, Burt Jenner, and daughter, Cassandra Marino.
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Travel bosses are pinning their hopes on France scrapping a new travel ban for British tourists within weeks if the UK can show it has the Indian variant under control - as Spain insisted it was staying open to visitors.

Holidays and other non-essential trips to France will be banned for Britons from Monday, it was announced yesterday, while those who are allowed to travel face mandatory self-isolation for seven days and will have to provide a mandatory negative PCR or lateral flow test taken no more than 48 hours before departure.

However, the French government seemed to row back on the threat of police checks today, with a government spokesman telling Le Parisien: 'For the moment, given the low incidence of Covid in Great Britain, the home control system will not be applied to them.'

Visitors from the 15 countries already on the quarantine list, such as Brazil, India and Turkey, can be fined up to 1,500 for failing to self-isolate.

The new rules for France will come in place at midnight on Sunday, as the country joins Austria and Germany in tightening rules on British visitors in response to the spread of the Indian variant, which is now responsible for most new cases in the UK, according to leading epidemiologist Professor Neil Ferguson.

But today Paul Charles, chief executive of travel expert The PC Agency, suggested the French move would only be temporary.

He told MailOnline: 'This is hopefully only a very short term measure from France until it becomes clearly how the Indian variant is behaving in the UK. So I don't expect it to last too long, and it should be removed later in June.

'Countries in Europe are beginning to worry about the extent of the variant and as the UK has such advanced testing capability it needs to publish its data as soon as possible in order to reassure other countries.

'But I don't expect this to last more than a month so I don't expect this to impact the summer season. I think we'll be in a different place by the middle of June.'

It came as new data suggested Britain's coronavirus outbreak may not be spiralling out of control, with the number of people falling ill with symptoms of the disease falling by up to 10 per cent over the last week, according to a symptom-tracking app.

Academics at King's College London and health-tech firm ZOE estimate that 2,550 Britons  and 1,919 people in England  were becoming ill every day on May 23. For comparison, figures a week before stood at 2,750 and 2,132, respectively.

Professor Tim Spector, the epidemiologist behind the Covid app, admitted that the Indian variant was becoming dominant in the UK. But he said national figures 'remain unaffected', despite numerous measures saying that the outbreak is starting to get bigger with the quick growth of the B.1.617.2 strain.

Tourists and beachgoers enjoy the sea, sand and sun along the Mare e Sol beach in Coti-Chiavari last summer

It came as Carolina Darias, Spain's Health Minister, today defended the decision to put the UK on the country's safe list and exempt people from Britain from providing proof of jabs or negative Covid tests.

Speaking after a meeting with regional health chiefs, Mrs Darias said: 'We will keep tabs on the situation, but the conditions to open up to tourism are there.

'That's especially true for British tourism, with the UK being one of the countries with most influence in our tourism market which is a fundamental part of our economy.'

She also highlighted the UK's low accumulated coronavirus rate, as the number of hospitalised COVID-19 patients fell last week to its lowest level since September.

Coronavirus infections in the UK have been rising again, but the overall incidence is still low in a country with one of the world's fastest vaccine rollouts.

Holiday islands may get the green light: Travel hotspots of Greek, Canary and Balearic isles could be added to quarantine-free list Some of the most popular holiday islands may be added to the quarantine-free 'green' list  even if their mainland is not, say ministers. It raises the prospect of summer travel to the Greek, Canary and Balearic islands as the next tranche of green list countries are announced next month, even if Spain and Greece remain amber. In response to an MP's question about using the traffic-light system to reopen international travel, aviation minister Robert Courts said: 'The Government will take an island approach for border measures where possible. It raises the prospect of summer travel to the Greek, Canary and Balearic islands as the next tranche of green list countries are announced next month, even if Spain and Greece remain amber (pictured: the Greek island of Santorini) 'Changes to the traffic-light country system will be reviewed and implemented every three weeks, unless concerning evidence means we need to act faster to protect public health.' The move could also see other islands in the Caribbean and Mediterranean opened up to holidaymakers separate from their mainland. The green list will be reviewed next week with a formal announcement possibly on Thursday, with the changes coming into effect on June 7. British Airways boss Sean Doyle said an 'islands policy' was crucial for getting tourism back up and running and unlocking holidays for millions of Britons. The green list will be reviewed next week with a formal announcement possibly on Thursday, with the changes coming into effect on June 7 (file photo of passengers in the arrivals hall at Heathrow Airport in August last year) British Airways boss Sean Doyle (pictured above) said an 'islands policy' was crucial for getting tourism back up and running and unlocking holidays for millions of Britons But it came as Austria joined Germany yesterday and banned British tourists over fears about the Indian Covid variant. Britain joins Brazil, India and South Africa on Austria's list of 'virus variant states'. Only Austrian citizens or people with residency rights will be allowed to enter the country from Britain. Direct flights from the UK will be halted from June 1. Nearly a million Britons visit Austria every year but leisure breaks to the country, popular with skiers, will be off limits this summer if the ban continues. Advertisement

Clusters of the B.1.617 Indian variant have grown quickly, however, to 3,424 as of last Thursday, up by 2,111 from similar numbers the previous week. The Indian variant has been reported in at least 17 countries.

The French government's announcement will be a blow to parts of the beleaguered tourism industry, which is desperate for a return to normal business ahead of the peak summer season.

'It's reasonable in terms of saving the French summer but will be very punishing for those regions which depend on British holidaymakers,' said Ge Kusters, owner of Le Paradis campsite in the Dordogne area and president of the regional campsite union.

'More financial support is going to have to follow.'

British tourists had been due to be allowed to visit France without restrictions from June 9 if they carried a certificate of vaccination against COVID-19 or a negative COVID-19 PCR test.

Some 13 million Britons visited France every year before the coronavirus crisis began in early 2020, more than any other nationality, according to official data.

French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian had raised the possibility of tougher restrictions for British tourists on Sunday.

He suggested the UK could be put in a health category of its own, somewhere in between the strictest measures that France is imposing on visitors from India and 15 other countries, and more relaxed requirements being readied for visitors from the EU and some other countries.

Without giving specifics, Mr Le Drian said there was potential for 'health measures that are a bit stronger' but Paris is watching the progress of the Indian variant before making final decisions.

'We hope that the variant can be controlled in a country which experienced real failures during the pandemic,' he said.

'However, the arrival of the Indian variant and the increase of cases of Indian variant in the United Kingdom pose a problem and so we are vigilant about this (and) in contact with the British authorities,' he added.

'It won't be the red treatment if we have to do it. It will be an intermediate treatment,' the minister said.

'But it is not excluded - this springs to mind because of British tourists - that we have health measures that are a bit stronger.'

The tougher restrictions come after Germany declared Britain and Northern Ireland a virus variant region last week and required anyone entering the country from the UK to quarantine for two weeks on arrival.

Austria also yesterday banned British tourists over fears about the Indian Covid variant.

Rory Boland, Which? Travel Editor, said: 'France's decision to quarantine UK travellers in response to the Indian variant is a stark reminder of the unpredictability of international travel this year.

'People would have already been confused about what travel is safe and permitted due to the country's status on the UK's amber list, and this announcement will cause even more stress for those with an upcoming booking.

'Many will be surprised to find that changing entry requirements and mandatory quarantine at your destination won't always trigger a refund, especially for flights.

'This demonstrates just how important it is for anyone thinking about booking a trip in the next few months to do so with a holiday company that has the most flexible booking policies available, so they are protected against significant disruption to travel plans that can often occur at short notice.'

Some 13 million Britons had visited France every year before the coronavirus crisis began in early 2020.

Other European nations have since welcomed British holidaymakers back to their beaches with open arms.

Travellers will soon be able to visit 20 destinations on the Continent without having to quarantine upon arrival - despite 18 of those welcoming sun-seekers still being on the 'amber list.'

Spain has lifted its restrictions on travellers from the UK, with Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez saying: 'Spain will be delighted, very delighted to welcome all British tourists'.

The popular holiday hotspot joins Italy, Greece and Cyprus in permitting Britons to arrive without quarantine.

However, if tourists do decide to travel to these 'amber list' destinations, they will need to self-isolate for 10 days and get tested twice upon their return to the UK.

Portugal is the only major tourist destination on Britain's 'green list', meaning people can go without the need to quarantine

People wait in a line to receive vaccinations in Barcelona today after Spain lifted the travel restriction from the UK

Covid-19 cases in a selection of the 'amber list' European countries where Britons don't have to quarantine upon arrival

Spain defends welcoming British tourists, saying they are vital to the economy Spain today defended its decision to open up to British tourists despite France and Germany unveiling tougher rules. Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez allowed UK holidaymakers to return for the first time this year on Monday with no Covid test or vaccine requirements. The surprise move came after Germany said it was barring Britons from entering after public health chiefs designated the UK as a virus variant area of concern. France subsequently followed suit by saying Britons heading to the country would have to quarantine for seven days and provide a negative coronavirus test to prevent the spread of the Indian variant. Portugal, the first major European holiday destination to be put on the UK's green travel list, is demanding British tourists show proof of a negative Covid test. The number of UK holidaymakers jetting to Spain has been low so far because of its amber status which means sun seekers have to quarantine when they return. But Carolina Darias, Spain's Health Minister, defended the decision to put the UK on the country's safe list and exempt people from Britain from providing proof of jabs or negative Covid tests. On June 7 Spain will allow tourists from around the world to enter the country, providing they can prove they have had all their Covid vaccinations. Speaking after a meeting with regional health chiefs, Mrs Darias said: 'We will keep tabs on the situation, but the conditions to open up to tourism are there. 'That's especially true for British tourism, with the UK being one of the countries with most influence in our tourism market which is a fundamental part of our economy.' She also highlighted the UK's low accumulated coronavirus rate as one of the reasons why it was on Spain's safe list. The Balearic Islands and Canary Islands are hoping to make the UK's green list in the next 'traffic light' system review at the start of next month, even if mainland Spain remains on amber. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has confirmed islands would be looked at separately when travel rules are updated on June 7. Iago Negueruela, the Balearic Islands' tourism minister, has spent several weeks campaigning for the region to be treated separately from the Spanish mainland so British tourists can book holidays without having to quarantine on their return. The islands' 14-day cumulative coronavirus rate is currently 37,67 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, lower than Portugal's. Just over 40 people with Covid are in hospital in the islands, 18 per cent less than a week ago. Advertisement

British tourists had been due to be allowed to visit France without restrictions from June 9 if they carried a certificate of vaccination against Covid-19 or a negative PCR test.

Visitors from the UK are currently required to present a negative PCR test carried out less than 72 hours before departure and self-isolate for seven days.

They are then asked to take another PCR test which must be negative for them to end the quarantine period.

It is unclear how the tightened restrictions announced today will change these measures.

France is broadly following the EU's template for welcoming tourists, which are in the process of being updated. A 'traffic light system' should be fleshed out soon for what the restrictions for each category will be.

The latest blow for British holidaymakers comes as travel bosses today slammed Downing Street's 'utterly confusing' advice on foreign holidays and demanded the 'green list' is quickly expanded.

The CEOs of easyJet, British Airways, Ryanair, Jet2, Tui UK and others have written to the Prime Minister to share their frustration at ministers' recent comments telling Britons travel is 'dangerous' and urging them to 'stay in this country' rather than holiday abroad.

They asked Boris Johnson to 'bank the gains from the huge success of the vaccination programme and expand the green list' to include the US, the Caribbean and other European hotspots, saying Britons are now being left behind their neighbours.

The signatories, which also included the CEO of Virgin Atlantic and Loganair, added they 'fully understand' concerns about the Indian variant of Covid-19, but say comments made in the past week have 'moved the goalposts' and 'undermined the very purpose of the risk-based traffic light system.'

The letter says: 'The Government now appears not to want a meaningful restart to international travel this summer, and it is impossible for any business or consumers to plan under this scenario, such that we are genuinely fearful that some UK businesses may fail.

'Failures can be avoided. The science shows clearly the green list can be expanded safely now, including to many European countries, the US and the Caribbean.

'Many currently amber countries have significant levels of vaccinations, rapidly decreasing case numbers and, according to test and trace data, often considerably less than one per cent of arrivals testing positive with no identified variants of concern entering the country. Under an evidence-based system based on risk, these should be green.'

It comes as it emerged today that some of the most popular holiday islands for eager British holidaymakers may soon be added to the quarantine-free 'green' list  even if their mainland is not.

This raises the prospect of summer travel to the Greek, Canary and Balearic islands as the next tranche of green list countries are announced next month, even if Spain and Greece remain amber.

Fuengirola beach near Malaga is pictured on Monday as UK holidaymakers set their sights on a trip to Spain

Three women talk to each other while sunbathing on the beach at Fuengirola near Malaga in Spain on Monday

Cases are only clearly rising in THREE of England's eight Indian variant hotspots, data shows By Joe Davies for MailOnline Covid cases are only clearly rising in two of England's Indian variant hotspots, official statistics have shown amid warnings that people aged under 21 may be more likely to catch the mutant strain. Blackburn with Darwen, Kirklees and Bedford are the only areas of the eight identified by ministers as being to have seen an obvious rise in infections. Burnley has even seen a fall in the average number of cases, based on the most recent data on the Government's coronavirus dashboard. Outbreaks appear flat in the other four areas: Bolton, Leicester, Hounslow and North Tyneside. And the number of beds occupied by Covid patients has remained in single area for all but one of the areas  Bolton, which saw a fall from 44 to 41 beds on Tuesday. Just one person was in hospital with Covid in North Tyneside at the most recent date. But hospitalisation data is harder to untangle because some NHS trusts care for larger areas, with multiple hospitals under their jurisdiction. For example, East Lancashire Trust includes hospitals in Burnley and Blackburn, providing the same data for both. Experts say hospitalisations in Bolton are currently lower than they would have been predicted based on case numbers a fortnight ago, even though rates have crept up over the past month. Professor Christina Pagel, a member of Independent SAGE, hailed the most recent case numbers as 'good news', despite previously saying ministers may need to delay the last stage of lockdown easing on May 17 due to the rapid spread of the Indian variant. She tweeted: 'So some good news: cases in some of the new variant hotspots are now coming down  especially in Bolton.' Advertisement

Speaking in the letter today, travel leaders warned the UK risks 'falling behind the rest of the world, with long-term consequences for our connectivity and prospects of a Global Britain' if it remains grounded while the rest of Europe opens up.

They added that Britain has 'never been in a better position' to manage the risk from Covid-19 due to its highly successful vaccine roll-out which today opened to those aged 30 and above.

The letter added: 'Along with the vaccination programme, our testing system allows us to assess inbound risk from medium and higher risk countries. With this safety net, we urge you to stick to the established framework, end confusion for travellers and allow our businesses to plan.

'Airlines can deliver a meaningful restart safely but a second lost summer for the sector, due to a limited expansion of the green list compared to our neighbours, would cause lasting damage to the UK's aviation, travel and tourism industries.

'In that case there would be an urgent need for a dedicated aviation economic support package to safeguard many thousands of jobs otherwise under threat and protect the essential infrastructure that will be critical to the UK's recovery and future prosperity.'

Speaking earlier, the CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, Steve Heapy, insisted confusion over foreign holidays was worsened by the fact Foreign Office advice was not always aligned with the traffic light system.

He told the Guardian: To have two separate lists is utterly confusing ... we have to make decisions based on conflicting information.'

EasyJet boss Johan Lundgren said: 'Customers want to travel this summer  they value their holidays, want to reunite with loved ones after many months of separation and develop their businesses so I urge the Government to increase the Green list and let the UK take off once again.'

Andrew Flintham, Managing Director for TUI UK and Ireland, said holidays to destinations including Spain, Greece, some Caribbean islands and the US should now be possible due to the worldwide vaccination effort.

The green list will be reviewed next week with a formal announcement possibly on Thursday, with the changes coming into effect on June 7 (file photo of passengers in the arrivals hall at Heathrow Airport in August last year)

Some of the most popular holiday islands may be added to the quarantine-free 'green' list  even if their mainland is not, say ministers. Pictured: Santorini, Greece

The latest blow for British holidaymakers comes as travel bosses today slammed Downing Street's 'utterly confusing' advice on foreign holidays and demanded the 'green list' is quickly expanded. Pictured: Mallorca, Spain

The CEOs of easyJet, British Airways, Ryanair, Jet2, Tui UK and others have written to the Prime Minister to share their frustration at ministers' recent comments telling Britons travel is 'dangerous' and urging them to 'stay in this country' rather than holiday abroad. Pictured: Tenerife, Spain

Travel hotspots of Greek, Canary and Balearic isles could be added to quarantine-free list Some of the most popular holiday islands may be added to the quarantine-free 'green' list  even if their mainland is not, say ministers. It raises the prospect of summer travel to the Greek, Canary and Balearic islands as the next tranche of green list countries are announced next month, even if Spain and Greece remain amber. In response to an MP's question about using the traffic-light system to reopen international travel, aviation minister Robert Courts said: 'The Government will take an island approach for border measures where possible. 'Changes to the traffic-light country system will be reviewed and implemented every three weeks, unless concerning evidence means we need to act faster to protect public health.' The move could also see other islands in the Caribbean and Mediterranean opened up to holidaymakers separate from their mainland. The green list will be reviewed next week with a formal announcement possibly on Thursday, with the changes coming into effect on June 7. British Airways boss Sean Doyle said an 'islands policy' was crucial for getting tourism back up and running and unlocking holidays for millions of Britons. But it came as Austria joined Germany yesterday and banned British tourists over fears about the Indian Covid variant. Britain joins Brazil, India and South Africa on Austria's list of 'virus variant states'. Only Austrian citizens or people with residency rights will be allowed to enter the country from Britain. Direct flights from the UK will be halted from June 1. Nearly a million Britons visit Austria every year but leisure breaks to the country, popular with skiers, will be off limits this summer if the ban continues. Advertisement

He added: 'We're already seeing other European markets open up to travel and welcome back customers, so now is the time for the UK to do the same. We're a nation of travellers, so it's time to stop limiting our ability to travel where it's safe to do so.

'Whilst we've offered outstanding flexibility for customers this summer, what customers really want is to be able to take the holiday they've booked and look forward to.'

Charlie Cornish, CEO of Manchester Airports Group, owner of Stansted, Manchester and East Midlands airports, said: 'The Government is holding back international travel despite clear evidence that more countries should be on the green list.

'The UK's traffic light system ignores the benefits of our world-leading vaccination programme, which was meant to give Britain a head start and let people visit family and go on holiday this summer. Instead, the Government is actively telling people not to travel to amber list countries despite creating a system that makes it safe for them to do so.

'At the same time, we are requiring millions of people with immunity from Covid-19 to pay for PCR tests to gather data on variants that other governments reliably collect already.

'With so much at stake, the Government must work transparently and collaboratively with industry to create a simple, fair and sustainable system that will truly get Britain flying again.'

Tim Alderslade, CEO of Airlines UK, the industry body representing UK-registered carriers, said: 'The UK will rapidly fall behind the rest of Europe unless it looks again at its overly cautious approach to international travel.

'There is no reason why our green list can't be expanded to include the US and the most popular European hotspots, or for the UK not to follow the EU's lead in exempting vaccinated travellers from restrictions.

'It is time to allow UK citizens to take advantage of the fantastic success of the vaccine rollout but at the moment our competitors are reacting faster to the improving health situation and will reap the rewards this summer.'

Mark Tanzer, CEO of Abta  The Travel Association, said: 'It is illogical for the Government to not follow its own traffic light system  it makes no sense for Ministers to say people shouldn't travel to amber countries when the Government's own system allows people to do so in a risk-managed way.

'Travel agents and tour operators, and their customers, need a clear and simple system to follow without contradictions otherwise our sector's recovery will be unnecessarily slow and drawn out.'
Jacinda Ardern's Labour party has retained its sky high popularity in the latest poll of New Zealand voters.

In a poll conducted by Colmar Brunton and presented on TVNZ on Thursday, Labour topped allcomers with 49 per cent.

The opposition National party sat on 29 per cent, with right-wingers ACT on nine per cent and the left-wing Greens on eight per cent.

Jacinda Ardern was by far the most favoured Prime Minister in the recent New Zealand political polls

Currently the Ardern government holds 65 seats and if the polls were represented in seats they would have 59, one short of a majority

The only other party to be represented in parliament on the polling numbers is the Maori Party, with two per cent.

Replicated into seats in parliament, Labour would win 59 seats - one short of a majority.

It currently holds a majority of 65 seats, but is governing with the Greens after signing a cooperation agreement.

Ms Ardern told the state broadcaster she 'took heart' from having the support of such a large number of New Zealanders.

The poll was the latest in a long line of terrible popularity figures for opposition leader Judith Collins, who has just nine per cent of Kiwis backing her as their preferred PM, behind Ms Ardern's 49 per cent.
A woman is battling for her life after allegedly being gang-raped, beaten and left for dead during a wedding at her home in India.

The woman, who has not been named, was found hanging from an electricity pole in the village of Chakhabib Rudhiya in the northern Bihar state on Tuesday.

Villagers rushed her to hospital after she was discovered naked, unconscious and in a critical state.

It is reported that the woman was targeted after venturing out in the early morning to use an open toilet.

The assailants allegedly took her to a deserted area where she was raped and beaten as she resisted, India Today reported, saying that the men threatened the woman's life.

Mistaking her for being dead, they then strung her up from the electricity pole. The men are said to also have stolen the woman's jewellery.

A woman is battling for her life after allegedly being gang-raped, beaten and left for dead during a wedding at her home in India. The woman, who has not been named, was found hanging from an electricity pole in the village of Chakhabib Rudhiya in the northern Bihar state on Tuesday

Upon discovery, the woman was taken to a hospital in Dalsinghsarai, before being referred to another facility for treatment.

She remains in a critical condition and is either still unconscious or conscious but not yet able to speak, according to conflicting local media reports.

No arrests have been made so far but seven men are being questioned in connection with the alleged incident after they were accosted by villagers and handed over to police.

The men are labourers who were working in the tents set up for the wedding, which was being held at the victim's home. Preparations for the wedding reportedly brought many outsiders to the village.

Police are also speaking to the woman's family, She the People reported, as the woman herself has not yet been able to give a statement.

Tuesday's alleged sex attack is just the latest to be reported in India, where a woman or girl is raped every 15 minutes according to federal data.

In Bihar alone, data shows 1330 rape cases were filed in 2020.

In December 2012, the gang-rape of a 23-year-old woman sparked nationwide outrage and led to a tough new anti-rape law.

An average of nearly 90 rapes were reported in India every day last year, according to data by the National Crime Records Bureau, but large numbers are thought to go unreported due to social stigma and a lack of faith in police and judicial authorities.
Philip Cunningham, 33, was stopped at the London airport on May 4 after EgyptAir check-in desk staff spotted his coronavirus test number was lacking a digit

A music teacher who tried to get on a flight to Egypt from Heathrow with a bogus Covid-19 test certificate has been warned he could face jail.

Philip Cunningham, 33, was stopped at the London airport on May 4 after EgyptAir check-in desk staff spotted his coronavirus test number was lacking a digit.

Police were called to Heathrow to question the man, from Birmingham, but he maintained he had tested negative the day before, Ealing Magistrates Court heard.

Officers who contacted the testing company were told there was no record of Cunningham taking a test.

The defendant was arrested and taken in for questioning at Heathrow Airport Police Station.

Prosecutor Izola Gribbin said: 'He told police officers: 'Yes I did it, I sent them on a wild goose chase. I'm a music teacher, this could ruin my life.'

District Judge Chris Hack said: 'This is a serious matter and this is a matter which requires an all-options report.

'The court will consider all options including committal for sentence to a higher court.'

Cunningham appeared at court wearing a beaded necklace, a newsboy cap, and multi-coloured trainers, speaking only to confirm his name and address.

The defendant, of Station Road, Birmingham, admitted fraud by false representation.

Police were called to Heathrow to question the man, from Birmingham , but he maintained he had tested negative the day before, Ealing Magistrates Court heard. Pictured: Departures at Heathrow earlier this month

Police were called to Heathrow to question the man, from Birmingham, but he maintained he had tested negative the day before, Ealing Magistrates Court heard. Pictured: Stock image

What are the rules for Britons entering Egypt? Under current rules, those entering Egypt are required to present a negative PCR test on arrival and an indication of when this test was taken. The Egyptian government has advised that PCR tests must be conducted no more than 72 hours prior to flight departure. However, those arriving from London Heathrow are permitted to have their test conducted 96 hours before boarding their flight. Advertisement

He was released on unconditional bail to appear at Birmingham Magistrates Court on June 4.

The judge warned Cunningham he could still be committed to the Crown Court for sentencing if magistrates decide their powers are too limited.

The teacher is understood to be one of the first Britons to be convicted of using a fake Covid test certificate to try to board a flight.

Under current rules, those entering Egypt are required to present a negative PCR test on arrival and an indication of when this test was taken.

The Egyptian government has advised that PCR tests must be conducted no more than 72 hours prior to flight departure.

However, those arriving from London Heathrow are permitted to have their test conducted 96 hours before boarding their flight.

When confronted at his Birmingham home by MailOnline, Mr Cunningham said: Youre disgusting. The whole storys a lie.

He said: Ill call the police if you come back, before shutting the door.
An asylum seeker who gang-raped a 14-year-old girl is avoiding deportation through a legal loophole shared on Facebook.

The Afghan national, 21, is refusing to take a coronavirus test - a requirement to travel to Afghanistan - and Swedish authorities cannot force him to do so.

Sweden's Expressen reported that 90 per cent of criminals due to be deported from Sweden refuse to take Covid-19 tests and are therefore allowed to stay in the country.

This includes several individuals convicted of 'serious sexual crimes against young girls,' the newspaper reported, adding that information about this loophole was being shared in Facebook groups.

The man's 14-year-old victim had absconded from a care home when she was attacked by him and another asylum seeker in September 2019.

An asylum seeker who gang-raped a 14-year-old girl is avoiding deportation through a legal loophole shared on Facebook. The Afghan national, 21, is refusing to take a coronavirus test - a requirement to travel to Afghanistan - and Swedish authorities cannot force him to do so [Stock image]

The girl knew one of the two young Afghan men and contacted him after running away. The men then took her to an apartment where they plied her with alcohol.

She fell asleep, awaking to find one of the men raping her. The other man then also raped the girl.

After the incident, she returned to the care home and told staff about the ordeal.

The men were sentenced for the crime, receiving 1.5 years in prison due to their young age.

One was able to remain in Sweden after serving his sentence due to the amount of time he had already spent in the country.

The other remains in custody in the Gothenburg area and now faces deportation. He is refusing to take a coronavirus test or get vaccinated.

His Swedish foster mother said that she is worried about what will happen if her son is forced to return to Afghanistan.

'He does not take the test or the vaccine because he does not want to go back. He will be injured if he does,' she told Expressen, adding that she believed he was innocent of the crime.

'We have become his family and we want him to be released. It's tragic. They still have him in prison so they still treat him like a criminal,' she said.

The woman told the newspaper that she was aware of the legal loophole around deportations, saying: 'It is written in different groups on Facebook "do not take the test"'.

The Afghan man's circumstances have echoes of another rape case from 2019, which involved Afghan asylum seekers in western Sweden.

After being convicted of rape and serving a jail sentence, at least one of the two attackers was able to remain in Sweden for a time after refusing to take a coronavirus test.

The Afghan man's circumstances have echoes of another rape case from 2019, which involved Afghan asylum seekers in western Sweden. After being convicted of rape and serving a jail sentence, at least one of the two attackers was able to remain in Sweden for a time after refusing to take a coronavirus test [Stock image]

According to his lawyer he has now returned to Afghanistan, Expressen reported.

The issue has frustrated border police who feel powerless to enforce court-ordered deportations and blame politicians for the legal loophole.

'It is an extreme paralysis of action from politics, which does not prioritise this,' a border police agent in western Sweden told Expressen, saying people did not understand the 'enormous cost' for society of convicted criminals being allowed to remain in Sweden.

A source described as a 'police decision-maker' told the newspaper that the loophole was made more concerning by the limits imposed on how long convicted criminals who have served their sentences can be held awaiting deportation.

'I have detained my deportation convicts, they are a danger to the public, convicted of serious crimes often more than once. But it is a matter of time how long you can keep them,' they said.

'We are starting to approach the expulsion deadline for some. Then you release them and hope to catch them when the demand has ended. If we exceed a single day, it is unlawful deprivation of liberty and misconduct.'
Bar Tribunal and Adjudication Service decided not to strike him off or impose financial penalty

Told a tribunal his life had become 'utter mess' but accepted his behaviour had been inappropriate

A shamed barrister who dealt the chemsex pills that killed his teenage boyfriend has escaped being struck off after a tribunal found him guilty of misconduct.

Henry Hendron, 40, was suspended in 2016 after admitting possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply following his boyfriend's death.

He had bought 1,000 of mephedrone and GBL from former BBC producer Alexander Parkin, 42, to deal 'in bulk' on to the gay party scene.

After a night of chemsex drug taking he found his Colombian boyfriend Miguel Jimenez, 18, dead in the bedroom of his flat in London's legal centre, Temple.

He dialled 999, but the teenager had suffered a lethal overdose of a combination of mephedrone, known as 'meow meow', and GBL in January 2015.

Shamed barrister Henry Hendron, 40, who dealt the chemsex pills that killed his teenage boyfriend has escaped being struck off after a tribunal found him guilty of misconduct

During a search police recovered 60 self-seal bags of mephedrone and found Hendron's fingerprints on the jars and envelopes containing the drugs.

Hendron admitted dealing the drugs at the Old Bailey in 2016 and was given 140 hours of community work.

He was then suspended from the bar for three years and went on a round of interviews claiming he had put his drug problems behind him after he incredibly escaped a striking off order.

But Hendron was soon back on narcotics and was signing off emails 'barrister - non practising' and even threatened one client when he was 'off his face' because he feared not being paid.

Harini Iyengar, for the Bar Standards Board (BSB), said: 'There are significant factors in terms of aggravating features found in the guidance.

Hendron said his life became an 'utter mess' during a three-year suspension from the bar after he admitted dealing chemsex pills that killed his teenage boyfriend Miguel Jimenez (pictured together)

'On the BSB's submission Mr Hendron has shown a lack of insight into his own conduct and a lack of remorse for the misconduct the panel found proved.

'One might have thought that someone who had been suspended would have taken all their professional obligations seriously at this stage.'

Explaining the threatening or inappropriate messages in an earlier hearing, Hendron said he threatened client Jon Wood after a High Court case was settled because he feared he would not be paid.

'I was off my face,' he said.

Email subjects included 'don't screw your lawyers,' and 'you have been warned,' which he justified as 'putting in stern language'.

He also sent an email threatening to apply for freezing orders on the bank accounts of Jon Wood, his mother and father over a 50,000 legal fee that was unpaid.

He had bought 1,000 of mephedrone and GBL from former BBC producer Alexander Parkin (pictured), 42, to deal 'in bulk' on to the gay party scene

In previous hearings, Hendron said he continued working in law while suspended by handling their cases as a 'legal consultant' at his brother Richard's firm.

Emails signed as 'barrister - non practising' may have been sent by his paralegal without his knowledge while he was dictating the messages from 'drug hangouts,' the tribunal was told.

He said: 'I was met with a lot of pushback when doing things as a legal consultant, people were accusing me of being suspended.

'Joe Public looks at the document and sees it as a breach. At that point I decided to call it a day and took two years off.

'At that time in my life I had just fallen out with my brother for the nth time, I was coming to grips with the loss of my boyfriend. I was a daily drug addict injecting multiple times a day.

A tribunal today decided Hendron would not be struck off or face another suspension, instead saying it 'expects there should be no repetition of such behaviour'. He also avoided financial sanctions because they would be 'ineffective' due to Hendron's bankruptcy

'I was trying to appear functional. I was a mess, a complete and utter mess.

'I would be going from one drug hangout to another in different parts of London corresponding with [his paralegal Marcus Kane] by one of mobiles.

'And he would be updating me with what happened with the various clients who were remaining.'

Nine of a total 18 charges against Hendron were found proved by barristers' professional disciplinary body Bar Tribunal and Adjudication Service.

The panel, chaired by retired crown court judge James Meston, found Hendron committed misconduct by behaving 'in a way which is likely to diminish the trust and confidence which the public places in the profession' and 'in a way which could reasonably be seen by the public to undermine his integrity'.

Hendron told the panel its value has given him 'food for thought' about seeing other people's perspectives and being 'too gung ho'

He said: 'I do accept the determination, the value of this tribunal has been for me, it has given me some food for thought in terms of trying to look at things from another perspective.

'We only see things through our own eyes, we should try and see things from all angles.

'Part of my problem has been and remains that I act too quickly and too gung ho, certainly in the heat of the moment I can get carried away, what I need to do is slow down a bit and think.

'That's an ongoing and life experience.'

He said he felt 'swamped' and 'under attack' by the 18 misconduct charges levelled against him when he learned of them in 2018.

Referring to the threatening emails to Jon Wood, he said he was not sorry for writing the emails to Mr Wood.

'I accept though that I would never speak to a client, or regular client, anywhere near the level of aggression or rudeness that email displays,' he said.

Judge Mr Meston said: 'Previous findings are relevant in that they show a history of serious and recurrent problems in Mr Hendron's life which Mr Hendron has not sought to conceal.

'They also show a failure to respond to previous proceedings and sanctions, having heard Mr Hendron during this hearing since early February we have had real concerns about his lifestyle and on occasions about his attitude and self-damaging behaviours.

'In mitigation today he frankly accepted that there has been a pattern in doing things without thinking about the ramifications.'

Mr Meston said the charges all arose from the time Hendron was subject to suspension from May 2016 and showed a 'deliberate disregard' to his obligations to the BSB and his code of conduct.

'However we have borne in mind that the matters charged in respect of the findings made occurred in 2016 and 2017 and that since then Mr Hendron has returned to practice at the end of this suspension in May 2019,' continued the chair.

'After the end of his suspension there have been no further complaints against him so far as the tribunal is aware.

'He has shown some insight today but it is clear that he has some way to go before he addresses all his problems in particular in respect of substance misuse, we cannot be wholly confident that there will not be some relapse.

'It is clear, on the analysis of the tribunal, that what is required now is not further suspension but more control over what he can and cannot do.

'He is now reprimanded for allegations against him, each of which amounted to unacceptable behaviour, we wish to leave him in no doubt that the tribunal expects there should be no repetition of such behaviour.'

Due to Mr Hendron's bankruptcy any financial sanction would be 'ineffective' said Mr Meston.

Hendron was prohibited from taking direct access work for two years.
A respiratory expert awarded an MBE for his medical services during the pandemic was blocked from Twitter after he was accused by the platform of spreading 'misinformation and potentially harmful information' about Covid.

Dr Matthew Knight was locked out of his account for more than a week - a move now reversed by the social media giant after Mail Online raised the issue with Twitter.

The NHS physician was blocked from the platform for posting a Tweet about the need for research and investment in air filters for restaurants and bars to allow the hospitality sector to safely reopen.

But his post was blocked by the platform and he was sent an email stating that the comment 'violated Twitter's policy on spreading misleading and potentially harmful information related to COVID-19'.

Dr Knight, the executive director and co-founder of Penrose Care and a respiratory consultant at West Herts Hospitals, was then blocked from the platform.

He appealed the decision, but it was been upheld a second time. Twitter has since reinstated his account, saying: 'We took enforcement action on the account you referenced in error. That has since been reversed.'

The move was slammed on social media with critics branding Twitter's decision 'Orwellian' saying: 'Censoring this could cost lives.'

The World Health Organization and US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention both admit the coronavirus is airborne.

It comes after months of scientific debate, but scienitists initially believed the virus was transmitted by droplets they now accept it is also airborne.

It came as Facebook was condemned for smothering free speech, after it reversed a ban on stories questioning whether the coronavirus pandemic started with a leak from a Chinese lab.

That theory had been branded a conspiracy by Facebook and liberal US media outlets, after Donald Trump suggested there may be a link, and it was banned from the network.

Dr Matthew Knight, who was awarded an MBE for his work during the Covid pandemic, posted a Tweet about the need to research and invest in air filters to make hospitality venues safer

Dr Knight has appealed the decision by Twitter, but he was sent an email from the platform's support team announcing his appeal had also been rejected (pictured)

But the leading respiratory physician (pictured) was sent an email stating that the comment 'violated Twitter's policy on spreading misleading and potentially harmful information related to COVID-19'

Dr Knight told Mail Online: 'I'm feeling quite hard done by, upset and confused.

'It feels like censorship for me as I dont feel there is anything contentious with what is written.

'I work for the NHS - I am not a political activist trying to make a point. Most of the tweets I have put out in the last year have been about keeping safe and getting tested, vaccinated, treated.

WHO AND CDC ADMIT COVID IS AIRBORNE The World Health Organization and US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention this spring both said the coronavirus is airborne after months of scientific debate. Experts have argued throughout the pandemic about whether the virus can still spread in the air after someone has breathed or coughed it out. It was originally believed to be mainly 'droplet transmission', which meant the virus was transmitted when infected people breathed, spoke, coughed or sneezed and virus-carrying droplets shot across the room onto someone else and infected them. If it didn't happen in this moment, the view was, the viruses would fall to floor and not pose much risk afterwards. But in an update to its website in April 2021, the WHO admitted: 'The virus can also spread in poorly ventilated and/or crowded indoor settings, where people tend to spend longer periods of time. This is because aerosols remain suspended in the air or travel farther than 1 metre.' This was its first admission that the virus could linger in the air for a longer period of time, potentially even after the infectious person had left. This meant it could hang around in rooms or float across enclosed spaces to reach people further away. The CDC said: 'Transmission events have involved the presence of an infectious person exhaling virus indoors for an extended time (more than 15 minutes and in some cases hours) leading to virus concentrations in the air space sufficient to transmit infections to people more than 6 feet away, and in some cases to people who have passed through that space soon after the infectious person left.' In an article published in The Lancet medical journal in April, GP and Oxford professor Dr Trisha Greenhalgh and colleagues said there was solid evidence the virus is airborne. They said there had been cases of 'long-range' transmission in quarantine hotels, that more common infections indoors suggested the environment was key as well as social contact, that the virus still spreads in hospitals where there are strict control measures, and that studies have found the virus present in ambient air and in filters and ducts. Advertisement

'I am very much in favour of reopening the country, but it needs to be safe and studied. I have published that message on Twitter and in academic articles.

'As far as doing stuff onTwitter I think I have always contributed to the good, so I am not going to apologise for a tweet about having clean air in a restaurant so you dont get Covid from someone else. I think that's pretty obvious.'

Dr Knight was recently awarded an MBE for his role in the Covid pandemic response.

He led a frontline team of medical professionals to prevent hospital admissions through virtual monitoring and consultations of patients at home.

Over 10,000 virtual consultations took place via the'virtual hospital', which cared for over 1,250 patients.

He took to Twitter on May 2019 to highlight the importance of air filters and ventilation systems in restaurants and bars.

He wrote: 'To get hospitality working safely in the UK a significant investment is required in ventilation systems.

'The standards should be set ASAP and funding made available. Covid is airborne (as are other infections) and ventilation vital part of prevention. Good air quality vital (sic).'

He was then sent an email from Twitter to his work email account warning him that his post had violated their policies.

He appealed the decision, but recieved another email less than a week later saying his appeal had been turned down.

Dr Knight said: 'I seem to have reached the end of the process to appeal it. If I had tweeted something contentious I would have just deleted it and got on with life, but on point of principle I wont be censored.

'There are other people out there putting quite nasty and horrible stuff on Twitter. I think all that seems to get by without any problems at all.

'So you can be nasty to each other and people can express extreme views on the left or to the right and are allowed to spew that all on Twitter with complete immunity. But I want to write about clean air and I get this.'

The email from Twitter read: 'Our support team has determined that a violation did take place, and therefore we will not overturn our decision.

'You will not be able to access Twitter through your account due to violations of the Twitter Rules, specifically our rules around: Violating our policy on spreading misleading and potentially harmful information related to COVID-19.'

He has been blocked from his account in the wake of the post and failed appeals.

Dr Knight claims the only way for his account to be reinstated is for him to delete the tweet and then have displayed on his account that he 'is a Covid misinformation spreader' for 14 days.

The move caused outrage on social media with medical figures among the many Twitter users jumping to his defence.

Dr Kristen K. Coleman, a senior research fellow in Emerging Infectious Diseases, questioned what was 'misleading or harmful' about the post.

She also suggested similar scenes had taken place on Twitter before, but it is not clear who the 'Aerosol Scientist' she refers to is.

Dr Kristen K. Coleman, a senior research fellow in Emerging Infectious Diseases, questioned what was 'misleading or harmful' about the post

She appealed to Twitter to reinstate Dr Knight saying that his post contained 'well-known facts'

Another social media user called Twitter's actions 'Orwellian and dangerous'

Another Twitter user also suggested it was 'terrifying' that 'scientific facts' were considered 'misinformation'

She wrote: 'There's something wrong with Twitter's censorship function. An Aerosol Scientist and a Respiratory Physician have both been blocked from accessing their accounts for 'spreading misleading & potentially harmful information related to COVID-19'.

Dr Knight claims the only way for his account to be reinstated is for him to delete the tweet and then have displayed on his account that he 'is a Covid misinformation spreader' for 14 days

'How is this misleading/harmful?'

She appealed to Twitter to reinstate Dr Knight saying that his post contained 'well-known facts', adding: 'Appeals were denied, with the option to delete the tweets to regain access. The science is solid for aerosol transmission, and ventilation and air filtration reduce/prevent long-range aerosol transmission of pathogens.

'Why is Twitter blocking these well-known facts?

'We need to be focusing on #SafeIndoorAir, not blocking informative messages supporting it.

'The @WHO and @CDCgov both acknowledge airborne transmission, and the topic is published in leading science and medical journals. It is not misleading or harmful information.'

Another Twitter user also suggested it was 'terrifying' that 'scientific facts' were considered 'misinformation'.

They posted: 'Terrifying that statements related to airborne transmission are 'misinformation' and somehow seen as dangerous.

'It is a scientific fact that #COVIDisAirborne, as confirmed by WHO, CDC, UK government and every respectable body that I know. Censoring this could cost lives.'

What breaches Twitter's Covid misinformation policy? Twitter's Covid misleading information policy states: 'You may not use Twitters services to share false or misleading information about COVID-19 which may lead to harm.' The policy outlines how tweets will be removed or labeled if they include: False or misleading information about the nature of the virus.

False or misleading information about the efficacy and/or safety of preventative measures, treatments, or other precautions to mitigate or treat the disease.

False or misleading information about official regulations, restrictions, or exemptions pertaining to health advisories.

False or misleading information about the prevalence of the virus, or risk of infection or death.

False or misleading affiliation Advertisement

On their website, Twitter's Covid misinformation policy states: 'Even as scientific understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, weve observed the emergence of persistent conspiracy theories, alarmist rhetoric unfounded in research or credible reporting, and a wide range of unsubstantiated rumors, which left uncontextualized can prevent the public from making informed decisions regarding their health, and puts individuals, families and communities at risk.

'This includes sharing content that may mislead people about the nature of the COVID-19 virus; the efficacy and/or safety of preventative measures, treatments, or other precautions to mitigate or treat the disease; official regulations, restrictions, or exemptions pertaining to health advisories; or the prevalence of the virus or risk of infection or death associated with COVID-19.'

It comes amid uproar after Facebook was accused of smothering free speech to cosy up to China as it scrapped its ban on posts debating whether Covid-19 could be man-made.

The move was made only after President Joe Biden ordered the CIA to probe if the virus came from a Wuhan lab.

Mark Zuckerberg's global policy chief Nick Clegg, the former British MP and Liberal Democrat leader, has been branded 'feeble' for allowing months of censorship on the social network.

Critics branded Facebook's behaviour had been 'contemptible' and begged them to respect free speech rather than 'ingratiating' themselves with states such as China, which has banned the website but remains a $5billion-a-year ad market.

British Conservative MP Peter Bone told MailOnline: 'It does seem to me that Facebook is not an open platform for people to put their views on. It is an open platform for people to put their views on as long as they agree with Facebook.'
Three police officers were shot and injured while responding to a 911 suicide call in Texas, which led to an armed stand-off lasting almost 11 hours.

The officers were shot following the call in a Flower Mound neighborhood about 25 miles (40km) northwest of Dallas at 7.04pm on Wednesday.

Police attempted to make contact with the man, who was alone in his home in the 2900 block of Termaine Drive, but he opened fire at around 8pm shooting three Flower Mound officers.

The officers returned fire, and the incident quickly escalated into an armed stand-off which continued for almost 11 hours before the suspect was taken into custody.

Three officers were shot while attending Termaine Drive (pictured: Police near scene) in Flower Mound, Texas, to respond to a 911 call about a suicidal person on Wednesday

A SWAT team and crisis intervention team were on the scene in a bid to negotiate with the man, who had barricaded himself into his home, Cross Timbers Gazette reported.

Two officers were rushed to local hospitals in stable condition, and have since been discharged, while a third officer was injured but cleared by medics on the scene, police confirmed.

One officer was hit in his bulletproof vest, while a second was hit in a metal shield he was carrying, and the third was grazed by a bullet, according to NBC5.

The suspect was taken into custody on Thursday morning after barricading himself into his home for almost 11 hours, police confirmed.

A statement read: 'The subject is in custody. As officers continue their investigation, a police presence will remain in the area for some time this morning. We'll provide additional information as soon as possible.'

The department had previously thanked people for the 'outpouring of support and kind thoughts' and confirmed that all three officers are 'doing well'.

Police attempted to make contact with the man, who was alone in his home in the 2900 block of Termaine Drive, but he open fired at around 8pm and shot three Flower Mound officers

After gunfire was exchanged, the incident reportedly escalated into an armed stand-off which was still underway on Thursday morning (Pictured: Police near scene on Wednesday)

The statement, posted on their website at 1.25am, continued: 'Thank you for the outpouring of support, kind thoughts, and prayers.

'The two officers who were transported to the hospital have been released, and all three are doing well. The 2900 block of Termaine Drive is still an active scene.

'Please continue to avoid the area. We are still working toward a peaceful resolution to this incident.'

A previous Twitter statement from Flower Mound Police read: 'Flower Mound Police are currently on scene of an active incident in the 2900 block of Termaine Drive. There is a heavy police presence in the area. Please avoid the area.'

The suspect was forced to hand his guns over to police due to a previous incident, but the weapons were returned to him last month, according to WFAA.

For confidential support call the Samaritans on 116123 or visit a local Samaritans branch, see www.samaritans.org for details.
In an embarrassing legal bungle, New Zealand's response to Melbourne's Covid-19 outbreak has looped in Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison ahead of his visit.

Mr Morrison is scheduled to visit Queenstown this weekend for the annual Australia-New Zealand leaders' meeting, alongside Jacinda Ardern.

The two governments want Mr Morrison's trip to go ahead, and they will either clarify or fix the law to ensure the visit takes place.

Scott Morrison's trip to New Zealand for the annual Australia-New Zealand leaders' meeting could be cancelled

But on Thursday, the NZ Director of Health issued a legal order that casts doubt over Mr Morrison's eligibility to enter or travel around New Zealand.

The directive asks anyone who was in Melbourne between May 20 and May 25 to isolate and be tested.

That timespan takes in Mr Morrison's last visit to the Victorian capital.

The Liberal leader visited Aquaterro, a business in Melbourne's southeast, last Thursday as he toured Australia promoting the government's budget.

A health official contacted by AAP agreed the order would apply to anyone who was yet to arrive from Australia.

However, a spokesman for Ms Ardern insisted the trip would take place.

A spokesperson for Jacinda Ardern confirmed that both governments are working to make the trip happen

'We are in close contact with the Australian government and working through any implications for the visit,' he said.

It is likely the NZ government will ask Mr Morrison to produce a negative test in the next two days before boarding 'Shark One', the PM's plane, to New Zealand.

The health order requiring people in Melbourne to isolate and test captures around 5000 people currently in New Zealand.

Aside from the legalities, there is one other coronavirus-related hurdle that could stop the prime ministerial talks.

Should Victoria's outbreak escalate dramatically in the coming days, Mr Morrison may decide it's appropriate to stay in Australia.

Mr Morrison is due to leave for the trip on Sunday morning, returning on Monday afternoon.
Embarrassing Bodies star Christian Jessen has been ordered to pay damages of 125,000 to Arlene Foster for posting an 'outrageous' tweet that wrongly said she was having an affair.

The First Minister of Northern Ireland sued Dr Jessen for defamation following a tweet he posted in December 2019 making an unfounded claim that she was having an extra-marital affair.

The message remained online until January 7, 2020, referring to Mrs Foster as 'the sanctity of marriage preaching woman', adding: 'It always comes back to bite them on the a**e in the end.'

Embarrassing Bodies star Christian Jessen has been ordered to pay damages of 125,000 to Arlene Foster for posting an 'outrageous' tweet that wrongly said she was having an affair.

The First Minister of Northern Ireland sued Dr Jessen for defamation following a tweet he posted in 2019 making an unfounded claim that she was having an extra-marital affair

Delivering his judgment at the High Court in Belfast, Mr Justice McAlinden said: 'To state that a woman married for 25-and-a-half years and a mother of three children, who is a committed Christian and who is recognised as such, and who has publicly made statements extolling the importance and sanctity of marriage, who also happens to be the leader of the Democratic Unionist Party and a holder of the office of First Minister of Northern Ireland, was an adulterer, a hypocrite and a homophobe is a most serious libel and is grossly defamatory.

'It is an outrageous libel concerning an individual of considerable standing, attacking her integrity at the most fundamental level, and it involves the trashing in a very public fashion of the relationship that Mrs Foster holds dearest in her life.

'It affected core aspects of her life, namely her relationship with her husband, her deep Christian faith, it called into question her fitness and suitability to occupy the office of First Minister at a time when delicate negotiations were continuing on the re-establishment of the Northern Ireland Executive.

'In short, I consider that it was an outrageously bad libel.'

Dr Jessen had told the court he didn't want to cause Mrs Foster 'any distress' when he tweeted the unsubstantiated rumour in December 2019

Pictured: Northern Ireland's First Minister Arlene Foster speaks to the media outside Parliament Buildings, Stormont, in April

Dr Jessen had told the court he didn't want to cause Mrs Foster 'any distress' when he tweeted the unsubstantiated rumour in December 2019.

He added he posted the message based on false rumours he read about on social media.

The rumour was based on an untrue allegation she had an affair with a close protection officer, which Dr Jessen repeated.

Mrs Foster had been married to police officer Brian Foster since August 1995, when the pair wed at the Holy Trinity Church, Lisnaskea, Co Fermanagh.

The couple have three children - Sarah, George and Ben - who Mrs Foster previously said she was 'fortunate' to be close to during months of Covid lockdown.

'There was extensive online comments about this rumour,' Dr Jessen told the court.

'It wasn't just one or two, there were many hundreds of tweets going back quite some time about this rumour.

Mrs Foster had been married to police officer Brian Foster (above at Wimbledon in July 2018) since August 1995, when the pair wed at the Holy Trinity Church, Lisnaskea, Co Fermanagh

The couple have three children - Sarah, George and Ben - who Mrs Foster previously said she was 'fortunate' to be close to during months of Covid lockdown

'It seems too prolifically talked about to have been conjured from thin air.

'The comments and articles that were around at the time. It was covered in a number of disconnected websites.'

Dr Jessen was questioned about the basis of his tweet by David Ringland QC, acting for Mrs Foster.

Mr Ringland asked the celebrity doctor why he tweeted the 'disgusting' falsehood about the first minister.

The plaintiff's barrister accused him of 'trashing' Mrs Foster's reputation.

Dr Jessen told the court he wanted to highlight 'possible hypocrisy behind it', referring to the Democratic Unionist Party's position on same-sex marriage and abortion.

Arlene Foster (left) felt 'humiliated' after Embarrassing Bodies star Dr Christian Jessen (right) tweeted a false rumour she was having an affair, a libel court heard

'What I had presented to me, from the myriad of corners from which I was seeing this same rumour repeated, that I could conclude that (it) was not false,' he added.

'My issue was more the possible hypocrisy behind it.

'Given the extent of the rumours and given the DUP's stance on things like equal marriage and abortion, I felt strongly that if there was a possibility that these were true, this is a public figure that was answerable to her public.

'If there were any truth to these, that hypocrisy needs to be pointed out and accounted for.

'I was interested in making sure that if there was any truth in it, that any hypocrisy that may have been behind it was noted.'

Mr Ringland put it to Dr Jessen that he posted the allegation to his 300,000 followers based on rumours that were 'possibly true'.

'Do you understand how shattering and damaging it is for a happily married woman to be accused of adultery?' Mr Ringland added.

Dr Jessen replied: 'I'm sure it was very unpleasant for her and I would not wish to cause her any distress.'

Mrs Foster previously told the court how she felt 'humiliated' by the tweet, which came at a particularly stressful time when she was involved in talks to resurrect the powersharing government in the region.
A renowned music school has been ordered to pay 45,000 in damages to an ex-pupil after a High Court judge found it was 'vicariously liable' for the sexual abuse she suffered at the hands of her violin teacher.

The court found Chetham's School of Music had 'facilitated' the abuse by violin teacher Wen Zhou Li, who was cleared of raping a former pupil in 2016 following a three-year legal battle.

The Chinese-born musician, who denies the allegations, was accused of raping and indecently assaulting the teenage girl in the late 1990s.

However, the case was dropped after prosecutors offered no evidence.

A court found Chetham's School of Music had 'facilitated' the abuse by violin teacher Wen Zhou Li (above with his wife Lili), who was cleared of raping a former pupil in 2016 following a three-year legal battle

Suicide of violinist days after she testified against choirmaster who abused her as a child 'could and should' have been prevented The ex-pupil who accused Wen Zhou Li of rape and assault is not the only former student at Chetham's School of Music to allege abuse. Frances Andrade was abused by former choirmaster Michael Brewer and his ex-wife when she was 14 and 15 while at the school in Manchester. She committed suicide days after she testified against her 'predatory' former choirmaster, and an investigation into her death found this 'could and should' have been prevented. Pictured: Frances Andrade Ms Andrade, 48, was left 'utterly traumatised' after giving evidence against Brewer and his ex-wife , and killed herself before they were convicted of a string of indecent assaults. Brewer, who was later stripped of his OBE, used his position to abuse Ms Andrade when she was 14 and 15 while at the prestigious Chetham's School of Music in Manchester. Giving evidence Mrs Andrade told the jury: 'This feels like rape all over again' and complained her abuser had 'smirked' at her across the room as she exposed him as a paedophile. A week later the virtuoso musician then killed herself at home in Guildford, Surrey, A serious case review said in 2014 that Ms Andrade was 'let down' by mental health services who failed to realise how vulnerable she was as she fought to bring Brewer to justice. Advertisement

The victim, known by the pseudonym 'Abigail', later brought a civil claim against the school in Manchester.

Following a four-day hearing in March, Mr Justice Fordham found the assaults took place and that CSM 'created or significantly enhanced' the risk she would be abused.

In a ruling on Wednesday, he said: 'I am satisfied that Abigail has discharged the burden of proving to the civil standard that the key events which she alleges, and which CSM denies based on Mr Li's denials, did take place.'

The civil standard requires a court to find it was more likely that an allegation is true as opposed to the criminal standard which requires a jury to be sure, also known as beyond reasonable doubt.

The court heard that Mr Li began kissing Abigail during their violin lessons in one of the school's practice rooms.

In one incident around her 16th birthday, she told the court Mr Li sexually assaulted her in his car before he raped her in his flat.

The court was told that she woke in the night 'to find Mr Li on top of her in her bed'.

Mr Justice Fordham found Mr Li had misused his position at CSM, adding: 'The employment relationship at CSM caused Mr Li to have access to Abigail at CSM as her one-to-one instrumental tutor and on a day-to-day basis.

'The circumstances of that access to Abigail facilitated the sexual assaults which occurred.

'The employment relationship at CSM gave Mr Li an opportunity, one which was incidental to his functions as a violin teacher, to abuse his power.'

Mr Justice Fordham concluded Mr Li had groomed and 'manipulated Abigail into a position of submission' over the course of the repeated assaults.

During the hearing, Mr Li claimed Abigail had been 'just another student'.

However, this was rejected by the judge who said he had 'deliberately and revealingly downplayed how he treated Abigail'.

The court heard that three other women made allegations of sexual assault against Mr Li, which he denied, including one who alleged he had touched her intimately when she was around 12 years old.

The boarding school had required overseas pupils to have a UK-based guardian, which could be one of their teacher.

It was said it closed to overseas students for some weekends and at half-term.

The judge said CSM's policies 'necessitated' Abigail to spend half-term and some weekends with Mr Li.

He continued: 'Mr Li exploited the opportunities presented by being Abigail's teacher and by being her guardian.

'He initiated and controlled what happened physically and sexually and its escalation.

A view of the Chetham's School of Music, an independent co-educational boarding specialist music school in Manchester

'He exploited Abigail's submission to his actions and is affronted by what he sees as her failure to give a 'signal' of a lack of consent.'

Mr Justice Fordham found there was a 'strong causative link' between Mr Li's employment by CSM and his sexual assaults.

The judge said: 'The employment relationship between CSM and Mr Li caused Mr Li to have access to Abigail, in circumstances where sexual abuse was facilitated.

'The risk that Abigail would suffer the sexual abuse, which CSM through the employment relationship with Mr Li created or significantly enhanced, was a function of both close proximity and a position of trust.

'The employment relationship between CSM and Mr Li facilitated the commission of the sexual abuse of Abigail by Mr Li, by placing Mr Li in a position where he enjoyed both physical proximity to Abigail and the influence of authority over her.'

The Chinese-born musician, who denies the allegations, was accused of raping and indecently assaulting the teenage girl in the late 1990s

He concluded: 'In my judgement there is the necessary close connection between the position in which Mr Li was employed by CSM and Mr Li's sexual assaults on Abigail in his car and flat, while he was acting as host under the guardianship arrangement with Abigail's parents, to make it right for CSM to be held liable for Mr Li's conduct.'

A spokesman Chetham's School of Music said: 'Our thoughts today are with the survivor, our former student.

'The current Chetham's team carries a sense of deep regret and sorrow for the way in which some former teachers at our school betrayed and manipulated the trust that had been placed in them. We will remain forever sorry.

'While nothing can ever undo what happened in the past, our Chetham's community today is determined to support survivors and work with safeguarding authorities in any way we can.

'We continue to support the ongoing Independent Inquiry in Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA), to share lessons learnt from our experiences, in the hope that the past failings within schools, religious institutions and public and private organisations nationwide are never repeated.

'Chetham's today is a place where care for student wellbeing is our number one priority. As parents and students of today would testify, the safety, health and happiness of our young people is paramount and underpins our every action as a school.

'Today and forevermore, we extend this commitment of care to former students as well as those wonderful young people currently at school.'
This is the moment an armed thug stabbed a police officer in in the leg and told officers he wanted him to die - after initially pretending to need his assistance.

Paul Cunningham, 43, from Eastbourne, stabbed PC Richard Bligh in September last year after flagging down the police car in the town centre.

The video was released as Cunningham, who had a history of threatening to stab and throw acid at police officers, was jailed for seven and a half years at Lewes Crown Court yesterday.

In the early hours of Monday, September 14, police were called to an incident in Eastbourne.

Having dealt with the matter, the officers were about to drive away from the scene when they were approached by Cunningham.

Video shows Cunningham, who was carrying a lock knife, approach the car and lean through the window at which point PC Bligh was stabbed in the leg.

Video released by police shows the moment Paul Cunningham approaches the police car after feigning he needed assistance before he stabbed PC Richard Bligh in Eastbourne town centre

Pictured: Cunningham stabs PC Bligh in the leg as he goes to get out of the car to help him

As he dragged himself away and administered his own first aid, two other officers tackled Cunningham and detained him until back up arrived.

The aftermath of the horrific moment was captured on camera as a team of officers can be seen restraining Cunningham who is filmed lying on the ground as they arrest him.

At Lewes Crown Court yesterday, Cunningham was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison after previously admitting wounding with intent, assaulting an emergency worker and possession of an offensive weapon.

The court heard Cunningham has a 'strong, real hatred of all public services, especially the police.

Paul Cunningham was jailed for seven and a half years after admitting wounding with intent

Body-worn footage shows police detaining Cunningham on the ground after the attack

PC Bligh told the court: 'I have no doubt that if it were not for the fact I was crewed with others, I would not be alive today. His intention was to kill me. He holds no respect for law or authority.

'Underneath the uniform, I am still a human being with family and loved ones. Who is he to attempt to take a life?

'I would deem him to be a danger to another person, he must not be allowed to do this again.'

He must also serve a further five years on extended licence.

Footage shows PC Bligh (left) dragging himself away from the danger after being stabbed

Body-worn footage shows PC Bligh receiving first aid from fellow officers after being stabbed

Following the sentencing, Eastbourne police Inspector Steve Shimmons said: 'This was a vicious and targeted assault on PC Richard Bligh simply because he was a police officer.

'Paul Cunningham approached him in the town centre in the early hours after he had attended to a separate emergency with his colleagues.

'Initially, Cunningham presented as requiring help and PC Bligh responded to that. As he exited his patrol car, he was set upon and viciously stabbed, leaving him with a severe injury.

'Thankfully, he has recovered from the physical impact of his injuries, but the extreme actions of Cunningham that night have left their impact on Richard and his family. '
Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt has copped a grilling from the ABC's Leigh Sales over the glacial pace of Australia's Covid-19 vaccine rollout.

The government had declared on February 16 that all aged care facilities would be fully vaccinated by March 30 - but now heading into June and with Victoria about to undergo a snap seven-day lockdown, the promise has not yet delivered.

The veteran ABC reporter asked Hunt if it would be 'his head or the aged care minister's' that would roll in the wake of the debacle.

'74 still to go?', she said during the fiery 7:30 interview.

'You said on 16th February that it would take six weeks. We know these are the most vulnerable people in the country based on the deaths data that we saw last year, how can 74 places not have been vaccinated yet?'

A sheepish Mr Hunt responded by saying most facilities had been given the jab.

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'With great respect we have had 98 per cent (of aged care facilities vaccinated) around Australia and almost 99 per cent in Victoria,' he said.

The Health Minister added that the 'issues' such as 'gastro outbreaks and flu vaccines' had hindered the rollout.

Sales also demanded Mr Hunt explain why Australia's rate of vaccinations are so far behind the other nations like the US.

'The US announced they have got 50 per cent of their population completely done. Australia's performance is underwhelming,' Sales said to Mr Hunt.

Although a record day of 111,000 vaccinations were carried out on Thursday, Sales interjected by saying it's still 'nowhere near the US' where 50 per cent of the population has received the jab.

In Australia, only 500,000 people have been fully vaccinated - about 2.5 percent of the eligible population.

Around 3.8 million have received at least one dose.

Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt (right) has copped a grilling from the ABC's Leigh Sales (left), over the glacial pace of Australia's Covid-19 vaccine rollout

So far about 3.8 million people have received at least one dose of a Covid-19 vaccination

The heated discussion comes just hours before millions of Victorians are set to go into a snap seven-day lockdown.

The Stage Three restrictions were ordered on Thursday after 11 new infections were confirmed, bringing the total number of cases to hit the northern suburbs of Melbourne to 26.

Under the stay-at-home orders residents can only leave their homes for essential reasons including grocery shopping, giving or receiving medical treatment, work or exercise.

Victorian's are also restricted from travelling more than 5km away from their home and must wear mask indoors.
Two police officers who shared photos of the dead bodies of two sisters after they were killed in a park today said they were 'sorry beyond measure for the pain they have caused' as they admitted misconduct in public office.

Pc Deniz Jaffer, 47, and Pc Jamie Lewis, 32, took 'non-official and inappropriate photographs' at the crime scene before sharing them on WhatsApp between 7 and 23 June 2020.

Nicole Smallman, 27, and Bibaa Henry, 46, were stabbed to death at Fryent Country Park in Wembley, in the early hours of June 6 after having a picnic to celebrate Ms Henry's birthday.

Social worker Ms Henry, from Brent, and photographer Ms Smallman, from Harrow, were both pronounced dead at the scene.

The bodies were discovered in the park the following day by Ms Smallman's boyfriend, Adam, who conducted a search himself after reporting them missing.

The officers were charged with misconduct following an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct watchdog.

Both PC Jamie Lewis and PC Deniz Jaffer admitted misconduct in public office today

Unmasked: PC Jaffer, 47, was charged with misconduct in a public office over the pictures

Nicole Smallman, 27, and Bibaa Henry, 46, who were stabbed to death in Wembley last year

Following their arrest last June 22 both officers were suspended from duty.

Pc Jaffer and Pc Lewis, both based at Forest Gate Police Station in the Mets North East Command, appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court and indicated guilty pleas to the charge of misconduct in a public office.

Luke Ponte, representing Jaffer and Lewis, said: I am instructed to indicate a guilty plea on behalf of both defendants.

There will be a written basis of plea between now and the pleas being formally entered.

They are sorry beyond measure for the pain they have caused.'

The charge said the constables sent information about their attendance at the crime scene to members of the public via WhatsApp and took photographs of the crime scene.

They wilfully and without reasonable excuse misconducted themselves in a way which amounted to an abuse of the publics trust.

Senior District judge Paul Goldspring bailed the officers to appear at the Old Bailey on 24 June.

Police said they were happily taking selfies, listening to music and dancing with fairy lights (pictured) until at least 1.13am on June 6, but calls to them at about 2.30am went unanswered

The sisters' mother Mina Smallman (pictured) told the BBC that the pictures 'dehumanised' her children

Reports of the pictures had devastated the mother of Ms Smallman and Henry.

Mina Smallman told the BBC at the time that the pictures 'dehumanised' her children.

'This has taken our grief to another place,' she said.

Met Police Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick said she was stunned at news of the allegations last yeear.

She said: 'My heart goes out to the family.

'In relation to the allegations about a photograph, I am dumbfounded. I am appalled.'

Police previously released pictures of senior social worker Ms Henry, from Brent in north-west London, and photographer Ms Smallman dancing with fairy lights before they were murdered.

The pair had met with friends during the evening to celebrate Ms Henry's birthday.

Danyal Hussein, 18, from Blackheath, has been charged with two counts of murder and possession of an offensive weapon, and faces trial later this year.
Disturbing cellphone video has emerged showing a 13-year-old transgender girl being slammed to the floor in the hallway at her Florida middle school by an older student, as classmates appear to look on without intervening.

The victim's aunt shared video of the attack on Facebook a day after it happened Friday at Deerfield Beach Middle School in Broward County. It has since gone viral.

The girl in the video, Chad Sanford, told NBC on Wednesday that she has been bullied for nearly a year for being gay, and that last week's assault left her suffering from headaches and feeling suicidal.

Video recorded at Deerfield Beach Middle School in Florida on May 21 shows sixth-grader Chad Sanford, 13 (pictured in tan shorts), walking in the hallway before being attack

This screenshot captures the moment an eighth-grader who allegedly was bullying Sanford for being gay picks the transgender teen off the floor

Sanford is slammed to the floor head first. In the video, none of the other students standing around seems to try to intervene on the child's behalf

Sanford is left curled up in a fetal position in the middle of the hallway. She later said other students kicked her in the head

'I just kept thinking, "Why should I be here? Why are you beating me up for being myself?' she said.

Sanford, who is a sixth-grader, was walking in the hallway at 2.30pm last Friday when an older boy, who is said to be in the eighth grade, came up behind her, picked Sanford up and slammed her to floor.

In the 28-second video posted by Sanford's aunt, Raquel Showers, the child is left in a fetal position in the hallway, surrounded by a crowd of students, none of whom seem to come to her aid.

'I was scared for me life,' Sanford told NBC, adding that only one student offered her help later as she headed to the principal's office.

Showers wrote in a Facebook post that other boys kicked Sanford in the head and stomped on her, leaving the 13-year-old injured. She also claimed that there was no security or any kind of supervision, and that school officials waited until everyone had gone home to call Sanford's guardian.

Sanford said she feared for her life. The attack was said to have left the 13-year-old suffering from headaches and suicidal thoughts

A Broward County Public Schools spokesperson said that the incident at Deerfield Beach Middle School is under review

The incident was reported to the Broward County Sheriff's Office, but it is unclear if it is being investigated as a hate crime.

Sanford told WPLG10 she has been subjected to bullying for being gay since last August, which has made the school year a 'living hell' for her.

Sanford's aunt, Raquel Showers, said she was heartbroken to learn the 13-year-old wanted to take her own life as a result of the bullying

According to the sixth-grader, the same boy who allegedly attacked her on Friday has been making homophobic remarks and using slurs directed at her.

'One day he embarrassed me in front of everybody,' Sanford said. 'He stood on top of the stage and said to me, Im going to knock the gay out of him.'

Sanford's aunt said she was heartbroken to learn that the attack has left the child feeling suicidal.

A Broward County Public Schools spokesperson told NBC Miami in a statement that the incident is under review.

'School safety is our highest priority. The schools leadership is taking this incident seriously and is working with law enforcement in its investigation,' the statement read. 'Any students involved will face appropriate school disciplinary consequences in accordance with the codebook for student conduct.'

For confidential support call the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255
An email containing a 'bomb threat' that forced a Ryanair flight to land in Belarus has been revealed to have been sent almost half an hour after the plane was grounded.

Belarusian officials have said Flight FR4978 from Athens to Vilnius had to be diverted on Sunday due to the threat, which they claimed came from the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

When the flight landed in Minsk, a Belarusian journalist and critic of President Alexander Lukashenko was arrested.

Roman Protasevich's arrest, along with that of his girlfriend, has led several Western countries to consider sanctions on Belarus, which faced a wave of protests against Lukashenko's rule last year.

On Thursday, Greece's prime minister described the forced landing as 'an act of state-sponsored piracy,' with the sole purpose of arresting Protasevich.

He added that there was 'no indication' that Belarusian KGB or any other secret service agents were on board.

The email, a screenshot of which was shared by an investigative media outlet on Thursday, appears to debunk the official justification for diverting the plane.

In a speech on Wednesday, Lukashenko said the threat originated from Switzerland. Swiss authorities said they had no knowledge of any such threat.

Dossier, an investigative unit funded by an exiled Russian tycoon, released a screenshot of an email that appeared to have been sent at 12:57am - 27 minutes after Minsk air traffic control informed the Ryanair plane of the bomb threat

Belarusian officials have said Flight FR4978 from Athens to Vilnius had to be diverted on Sunday due to the threat, which they claimed came from the Palestinian militant group Hamas

European leaders have accused Belarus of hijacking the plane in order to arrest Roman Protasevich, a journalist and prominent critic of President Alexander Lukashenko (pictured)

Dossier, an investigative unit funded by an exiled Russian tycoon, released a screenshot of an email that appeared to have been sent at 12:57am - 27 minutes after Minsk air traffic control informed the Ryanair plane of the bomb threat.

The text of the email appears to match exactly that of one Belarusian officials read out at a news conference earlier this week.

Hamas, which until Friday had been engaged in an 11-day conflict with Israel, has denied any involvement with the Belarusian incident.

The email is just the latest revelation to cast doubt on Belarusian authorities' justifications for forcing the plane to land.

Lukashenko, who has ruled Belarus for 26 years, claimed that the Ryanair flight had first requested to land at the Warsaw Chopin airport, but was refused.

This was denied by Warsaw airport officials on Thursday.

European leaders have accused Belarus of hijacking the plane in order to arrest Protasevich, and several have closed their airspace to Belarusian flights.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Thursday that there was no evidence that KGB or other secret service agents were on board the plane.

'We have no indication there were KGB agents or any security service agents on board the plane. None. Zero. And we investigated it very carefully,' Mitsotakis said in an interview with Germany's Bild tabloid.

Mitsotakis said the plane diversion, which Belarus claimed was due to a supposed bomb threat, was 'an act of state-sponsored piracy' with the sole purpose of arresting Protasevich.

Belarus opposition figures and Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary have suggested that members of the Belarusian security agency, still known as the KGB, were on the flight and also deboarded in Minsk.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has dismissed the claim.

Opposition journalist Roman Protasevich's girlfriend Sofia Sapega was also detained

Ryanair flight FR4978 had been flying from Athens in Greece to Vilnius in Lithuania when it was escorted by a Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jet to Belarus amid reports of an IED on board. It was forced to make an emergency landing at Minsk Airport

European Union leaders are expected to discuss further sanctions later on Thursday as foreign ministers meet in Lisbon.

The latest plans for sanctions could target Belarus' lucrative potassium industry among others.

Lukashenko, whose country is often dubbed 'Europe's last dictatorship' has accused the West of trying to 'strangle' Belarus with sanctions.

The EU has previously slapped Belarusian authorities with sanctions over the August 2020 election that handed Lukashenko a sixth term and that opposition groups have rejected as rigged, as well as his ensuing crackdown on protests.

ROMAN PROTASEVICH: OPPOSITION BLOGGER FORCED INTO EXILE NEXTA, Protasevich's outlet, was closely involved in reporting a wave of opposition protests that last year threatened to topple Lukashenko, before he was given backing by Vladimir Putin Protasevich, 26, has long been a thorn in the side of Belarus's hardline dictator Alexander Lukashenko. He worked as an editor at the Poland-based Nexta Live channel, which is based on the Telegram messenger app and has over 1 million subscribers. The channel, which is openly hostile to Lukashenko, played an important role in broadcasting huge opposition protests against the President last year. Nexta also helped coordinate those same protests, which were sparked by anger over what the opposition said was a rigged presidential election. The channel's footage, which showed how harshly police cracked down on demonstrators, was used widely by international media at a time when the Belarusian authorities were reluctant to allow foreign media in. In November Protasevich published a copy of an official Belarusian list of terrorists on which his name figured. The listing said he was accused of organising mass riots while working at Nexta. He also stands accused of disrupting social order and of inciting social hatred. He regards the allegations, which could see him jailed for years, as unjustified political repression. Protasevich fled Belarus for Poland in 2019 due to pressure from the authorities, according to Media Solidarity, a group that supports Belarusian journalists. He moved his parents to Poland too after they were put under surveillance. He later relocated to Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, where opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya is also based. Protasevich is currently editor-in-chief of a Belarusian political outlet hosted on the Telegram messaging app called 'Belarus of the Brain' which has around a quarter of a million subscribers. He was flying back to Vilnius from Greece where he had spent time taking photographs of a visit there by Tsikhanouskaya. He had posted the pictures to social media before flying back. Advertisement

If the next batch of sanctions does not ease the crackdown on the opposition and democratic values, German Foreign minister Heiko Maas said the EU 'will continue to look at what effects this has in Belarus, whether Lukashenko relents. If that isn't the case we have to assume that this will be just the beginning of a big and long spiral of sanctions.'

The EU has tried on and off to encourage democratic reforms in Belarus, bring it closer to the bloc - and distance it from its main backer, Russia - but has not had much success.

Some say more sanctions will do little to alleviate the situation and will only push Belarus even closer to Russia, and reduce the influence of the EU and others.

Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg acknowledged that it is a difficult balance.

'What we don't want to do is to drive the country in the arms of Russia,' he said.

Luxembourg's Jean Asselborn said the bloc was focused on the country's large potassium industry. The mineral is mainly used in the fertilising industry.

'The key word, I think, is potassium,' he said. 'Belarus produces a great deal of potassium, is one of the world's biggest suppliers.

'And I think it would hurt Lukashenko a great deal if we accomplished something there.'

The giant Belaruskali plant is controlled by the state as are most economic assets in the country of 9.3 million.

It is the main cash earner for Lukashenko's government along with petrochemicals.

The EU foreign ministers will prepare proposals for the sanctions but will not make final decisions on Thursday.

Lukashenko has called the hijacking accusations an 'absolute lie'.

He has insisted that Belarusian had a legitimate right to arrest Protasevich, who has become a top foe, saying that the 26-year-old journalist was working to foment a 'bloody rebellion.'

Protasevich's Russian girlfriend, Sofia Sapega, was also arrested.

Protasevich, who left Belarus in 2019, ran a popular messaging app that had a key role in helping organise huge protests in recent months that have put Lukashenko under unprecedented pressure at home in the wake of the August vote.

But the strongman has only increased his crackdown, and more than 35,000 people have been arrested since the protests began, with thousands beaten.

On Thursday, Protasevich's parents renewed their appeal for assistance in freeing their son.

'I want to appeal to you as Roman's mother. I want you to hear my cry, the cry of my soul, so that you can understand how difficult it is for us right now and how we have found ourselves in an absurd situation,' Natalia Protasevich told reporters in Warsaw.

'I want you to relay our appeal everywhere, throughout the world, to government representatives, to EU countries, to EU leaders, to US leaders: I am appealing, I am begging, help me free my son.'

Roman's father Dmitry said his son was a 'hero'.

'All through his life, he has fought for truth and he has relayed it to people. That's why Lukashenko has committed this terrible act,' he said.

Ireland's transport minister said it will call on the United Nations International Civil Aviation Organization to conduct an impartial probe into the 'forced landing' the plane.

It came after Europe's aviation regulator said on Wednesday that Belarus's actions had also cast doubt on its ability to provide safe air navigation, and some international officials are pushing for an investigation close to the type seen when a plane crashes or something goes technically wrong.

'What we'll be looking for is an investigation under Article 55e of the Convention of the Council (ICAO) and my understanding is that this would be the first such investigation,' Eamon Ryan said, speaking after a meeting of ministers at the OCED's International Transport Forum, which agreed to condemn the 'coercive, forced landing.'

Article 55e gives the council the power to 'investigate, at the request of any contracting state, any situation which may appear to present avoidable obstacles to the development of international air navigation.'

Ryan said he would expect such an investigation to be turned around by approximately the end of June.

'We need a full probe, a thorough investigation,' he said. Ryan is to attend an urgent meeting of ICAO's 36-member council, later on Thursday at a meeting that will also include government ministers from Poland, Lithuania and Belarus. Ryan will attend the meeting because Ryanair is registered in Ireland.

On Thursday, Protasevich's parents renewed their appeal for assistance in freeing their son. Pictured: Natalia Protasevich, the journalist's mother at a press conference in Warsaw
World champion kayaker Nathan Baggaley was 'actively involved' in a bungled cocaine-smuggling plot his younger brother helped plan, a Brisbane judge has found.

The brothers were each found guilty by a jury of one count of attempting to import a commercial quantity of cocaine in April, but are yet to be sentenced.

Brisbane Supreme Court Justice Ann Lyons heard submissions earlier this month on the men's role and degree of involvement in the importation attempt before Dru Baggaley headed 360 kilometres out to sea on a rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) in July 2018.

Kayaker Nathan Baggaley won a silver medal at the 2004 Athens Olympic games. He and his brother Dru have been found guilty of attempted cocaine importation

Dru Baggaley argued he should be sentenced on the basis he intended only to import tobacco, while his Olympic medallist brother claimed his role was comparatively minimal as he simply aided his sibling.

But Justice Lyons has found Nathan Baggaley was 'actively involved in the attempted importation' of cocaine and was to receive a substantial reward for his services.

The trial heard Nathan Baggaley bought the RHIB, a trailer and equipment worth more than $100,000.

'I find ... that Nathan Baggaley knew the importation of cocaine involved a large quantity and was actively standing by to receive that cargo and to facilitate the movement of that cargo as a principal,' Justice Lyons said in her judgment published on Wednesday.

She found Dru Baggaley was 'a principal organiser of the attempted importation of the cocaine', knew a large quantity of drugs were involved and recruited another man Anthony Draper to go to sea with him.

'Knowledge by a defendant that a substantial drug importation was to take place, and their voluntary involvement in that, places them at a much higher level of culpability than a courier who lacks actual knowledge and is merely reckless as to a substance being a border controlled drug,' Justice Lyons said.

Dru Baggaley (pictured) and his brother Nathan have been found guilty of attempted cocaine importation

Draper and Dru Baggaley met a foreign freighter off Queensland's coast after setting off on the RHIB from Brunswick Heads about 11 hours earlier.

The men retrieved packages thrown off the other ship, but on their return flung them into the sea when pursued by an Australian navy vessel.

Bundles recovered at the time, together with those that washed ashore for months after, contained 650 kilograms of white powder containing cocaine worth between $130 million and $200 million.

The two men were arrested before they reached the mainland.

Dru Baggaley told the jury Draper asked him to buy and prepare a RHIB to meet a ship from Indonesia that would bring tobacco to be sold in Australia, but had then also insisted he get on the boat.

Justice Lyons rejected Dru Baggaley's claim that he was recruited, saying it was clear from Draper's evidence he was 'not a person who could organise anything that required any degree of sophistication or execution'.

'Draper was a simple and unsophisticated man who was flustered and agitated by being in court to give evidence,' she added.

'He was easily confused and agreed to propositions without fully considering them.

'Dru in contrast gave evidence in a calm, confident, practised and careful way.'

Nathan Baggaley's career had already been tarnished with drug scandals like testing positive for banned steroids in 2005 and then being jailed

The RHIB was bought and equipped with a GPS system and satellite phone by Nathan Baggaley months earlier.

Justice Lyons said she was satisfied Nathan Baggaley's involvement didn't start prior to the day on which the sea voyage began.

'There is however evidence which establishes Nathan knew of the voyage by July 30, 2018 and he knew it was to retrieve a large quantity of a border-controlled drug namely cocaine,' she added.

Draper testified during the Baggaley brothers' trial as part of an undertaking made when he admitted his involvement in the smuggling attempt.

He was sentenced to 13 years behind bars after pleading guilty to the same drug importation charge during earlier proceedings.

Nathan Baggaley's career had already been tarnished with drug scandals like testing positive for banned steroids in 2005 and then being jailed, with brother Dru, 10 years later for his role in a drug manufacturing syndicate.

Nathan and Dru Baggaley are due to be sentenced on July 27.
The former daughter-in-law of Allen Weisselberg said Thursday that he evicted her from her apartment as revenge for her saying the Trump Organization CFO would turn on the former president.

'Yesterday I was served to leave my apartment within the next seven days,' Jennifer Weisselberg told CNN's 'New Day' in a Thursday morning interview.

'It's a threat,' she added, explaining that Allen is on her lease.

When asked why she thinks she is being kicked out, Jennifer said: 'I guess I'm not wrong about the information I'm giving.'

Jennifer was married to Allen's son Barry Weisselberg from 2004 to 2018 and is mom of their two children. She has already turned witness in the investigation into the Trump Organization.

In April, investigators acting on grand jury subpoena took a laptop and three boxes of financial records from Jennifer's apartment, which she said Thursday she will need to vacate in the next week.

Trump CFO's former daughter-in-law Jennifer Weisselberg told CNN Thursday that Allen is kicking her out of her Manhattan apartment as retaliation for her speaking out about the investigation. 'It's a threat,' she said. 'I guess I'm not wrong about the information I'm giving'

NEW: Jennifer Weisselberg, former daughter-in-law of Trump Org CFO Allen Weisselberg, says her father-in-law is evicting her from her apartment as retribution.



"Yesterday I was served to leave my apartment within the next seven days. It's a threat." pic.twitter.com/KL23LscrcR  Alli Hedges Maser (@AllisonLHedges) May 27, 2021

Weisselberg is seen handing boxes of documents and a laptop to investigators outsider her Manhattan apartment as part of a grand jury subpoena

Trump spent a day at Trump Tower in Manhattan last week before returning to his home at his New Jersey Bedminster property

The Washington Post captured Jennifer loading the evidence and material onto a valet cart and wheeling them outside her building before loading them into a black Jeep with tinted windows.

The subpoena ordered Jennifer to produce all records she has related to Barry's bank accounts, credit cards, tax filings and a statement of net worth  specifically those related to Trump Organization and its ice skating rink in Central Park.

Barry works for the Trump Organization and manages its Wollman Rink.

'My knowledge of the documents and my voice connect the flow of money from various banks and from personal finances that bleed directly into the Trump Organization,' Jennifer told the Post.

She added that those probing Trump and his associates now have her ex-husband's statements of net worth from 2019 and 2020 and his tax returns. They also have copies of Wollman Rink checks from private events, which she claims were deposited incorrectly.

Jennifer previously said Allen, pictured standing here with Trump and Don Jr., will flip on them in the investigation in order to protect his family and shield himself from fault in his own financial dealings

Allen Weisselberg (center) with his sons Jack (left) and Barry (right)

Previously, Jennifer has said she has seven boxes of financial records from her ex-husband and former father-in-law, some of which were obtained through divorce proceedings.

The move to subpoena the documents for evidence collection last month was further proof that Allen Weisselberg is a key focus of Manhattan District Attorney Cy Vance's investigation into Trump's financial dealings.

Jennifer said last month that she thinks Allen will flip on former President Donald Trump throughout the investigation in order to protect his own family.

In her interview with CNN on Thursday, she said she believes this action to kick her out of her Manhattan apartment is retaliation against her for speaking on MSNBC Monday night about the individual probe into Weisselberg and how she knows Allen is 'hiding money in escrow' and 'confidentially having checks cut.'

'You know, there's definitely tax fraud, there's definitely tax evasion,' Jennifer told CNN on Thursday. 'For the first time, they seem really nervous.'

On Monday, Jennifer appeared on MSNBC with Trump's former fixer Michael Cohen and Stephanie Winston Wolkoff, who was senior advisor to first lady Melania Trump from 2017-2018.

Jennifer said she has not been able to speak directly with Allen in at least a year.

Jennifer is pictured here with her ex-husband Barry (right) and Donald and Melania Trump

She said she even recruited former Trump daughter-in-law Vanessa, to get her ex-husband Donald Trump Jr. to reach out to Allen to set up talks between them, which Jennifer claimed was unsuccessful.

The probe against Trump's business is ramping up as at least one witness has been told to prepare to give evidence before a grand jury investigating the former president and his business, according to a source familiar with the matter.

The development is the latest sign that the Manhattan district attorney's office is racing into the next phase of its investigation and will soon present evidence to members of a grand jury to consider bringing charges.

'Prosecutors have been informally interviewing Trump Organization employees and it is my understanding that the next step is for them to appear before the grand jury,' said the source.

Manhattan District Attorney Cy Vance is leading an investigation into the former president's business practices, with one focus reported to be whether Trump inflated the value of properties to obtain bank loans and deflated them when calculating tax liabilities.

Vance is stepping down at the end of the year, which means he has limited time to bring charges.
The president of Microsoft is warning society about adopting the kind of artificial intelligence once only imagined in science fiction dystopian novels.

Brad Smith referenced George Orwell's seminal book '1984' when discussing government's increasing ability to monitor its citizens. Critics are particularly focused on China, which has ambitions of leading the world in artificial intelligence within the next decade.

The president of Microsoft, Brad Smith, is sounding the alarm about society adopting the kind of artificial intelligence once only imagined in science fiction dystopian novels

'I'm constantly reminded of George Orwell's lessons in his book 1984. You know the fundamental storywas about a government who could see everything that everyone did and hear everything that everyone said all the time,' Smith said to the BBC during an interview that aired on its Panorama program this week.

In '1984,' citizens live under the threat of constant surveillance and censorship, with cameras seemingly tracking their every move.

The government in the book cracks down on forms of individualism and rebellion. 'Well, that didn't come to pass in 1984, but if were not careful that could come to pass in 2024,' Smith added.

Artificial intelligence is the area of computer science that concerns the utilization of machines to take on tasks that used to require human intelligence. One aspect of artificial intelligence could involve the capability of machines to recognize patterns, which totalitarian governments could utilize to hinder speech or actions they disagree with, a la '1984.'

China has said that it wants to become the greatest AI power in the world by 2030.

In 2019, China secured more patents than the United States for AI innovation at academic institutions. Additionally, China contains 54 percent of the world's CCTV cameras, according to Comparitech.

Pedestrians walk across a crossroad as a big electronic screen supported by face-recognition system shows the image of a jaywalker at the intersection in Nanjing, China

Smith further elaborated that he feared the capabilities of technology would surpass the human ability to control it.

'If we dont enact the laws that will protect the public in the future, we are going to find the technology racing ahead, and its going to be very difficult to catch up,' Smith said.

Bigger U.S. cities have an average of over 112,000 CCTV cameras, or about 2,200 for every 10,000 citizens, according to a report in February.

China, meanwhile, has 15,880,491 CCTV cameras in places like Shanghai, equal to a camera for every man, woman and child.

The U.S. ranks as the second most surveilled country in the world, behind China and ahead of the United Kingdom, Singapore and Australia, respectively.

The report was conducted by WebsiteToolTester, which reviews website-building platforms like Winx and Squarespace.

Of the 150 cities analyzed in the report, 18 of the top 20 most surveilled cities were in China.

The chair of the US National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence is also sounding alarms, stating that the United States needs to beat China in terms of artificial intelligence capabilities.

The NSCAI was established in 2018 to 'consider the methods and means necessary to advance the development of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and associated technologies to comprehensively address the national security and defense needs of the United States.'

'Were in a geo-political strategic conflict with China,' chair Eric Schmidt said. 'The way to win is to marshal our resources together to have national and global strategies for the democracies to win in AI.'

The former Google chief executive added, 'If we dont, well be looking at a future where other values will be imposed on us.'

In '1984,' surveillance cameras seemingly monitored all of the citizens' actions

While cameras aren't as ubiquitous in the United States, they can be found many places, including on the door of homeowners

Artificial intelligence is not unique to China, with the United States also taking steps toward AI innovations.

Google was involved in Project Maven, a military movement aiming to use machine learning to tell the difference between people and objects in drone video.

China is making inroads in the artificial intelligence race, which it hopes to lead by 2030

China also has the most CCTV cameras in the world, ranking as the most surveilled country

Machine learning is the ability for computers to use algorithms and data to teach themselves certain skills, such as facial recognition.

Many Google employees resigned, however, concerned about how the technology could be used in military action going forward to weaponize artificial intelligence in drone strikes and other attacks.

'I kinda felt like I had blood on my hands,' said software engineer Laura Nolan, who resigned in 2018.

Google withdrew from Project Maven in June 2018, a year after it launched in 2017 during the Donald Trump administration. The current status of Project Maven is unclear.

George Orwell's dystopian classic, '1984'

Americans remain concerned about the ability of government to collect data about them and their actions.

Surveys conducted by the Pew Research Center in 2019 show that 63 percent of Americans believe they can't go through daily life without the government collecting their data.

Americans also believe that they lack control over that data, with a whopping 84 percent believing that.

Yet that didn't mean Americans were opposed to data collection under certain circumstances.

Almost half of all Americans - 49 percent - find it acceptable for the government to collect data from citizens to help assess potential terroristic threats.

The U.S. government is busy keeping tabs on its citizens online: In 2019 alone it requested personal data from Facebook, Twitter, iPhones, Microsoft and Google on more than 800,000 Americans.

There are data protection laws in place to prevent the government from sharing aspects of the data that it collects.

But certain parts of the government collect information, such as the IRS, which has tax and employment information based on yearly filings.

The U.S. already is dealing with mass surveillance.

A protester in Frankfurt, Germany in 2013 references George Orwell's dystopian warnings

In a recent report, the United States ranked as the second-most surveilled country

There are also concerns that artificial intelligence could do permanent harm to the workforce.

In 2018, the World Economic Forum predicted that robots and artificial intelligence will eliminate 75 million jobs worldwide by 2022.

In this Feb. 22, 2019, file photo, Washington County Sheriff's Office Deputy Jeff Talbot demonstrates how his agency used facial recognition software to help solve a crime

Facial recognition technology powered by machine learning is a major aspect of AI

Supercamera Xiaoyang Zeng Scientists have unveiled a 500 megapixel cloud camera system in China that they say is capable of capturing the facial details of each individual in a crowd

It also predicted that more than half of all workplace tasks could be done by machines by 2025.

Meanwhile, the march toward improved artificial intelligence continues as the Department of Defense is looking to work hand-in-hand with technology companies in Silicon Valley.

Seth Moulton, chair of the US Future of Defense Task Force, asked, 'Are you going to help us win this race or are you going to essentially be against us?'

He added, 'Could the AI arms race lead to conflict with China? Absolutely.'

At least one adviser to the government in China is looking to avoid conflict and instead work together with the U.S. 'The US and China should really collaborate to prevent that from happening,' Dr. Lan Xue said of potential conflict. 'China does not seek to export its values.'
The grandfather of the six-year-old girl killed in Minneapolis last week when she was hit by a stray bullet as she rode in her mother's car has told of the endless 'nightmare' of her loss.

In a bitter irony, 53-year-old KG Wilson is a peace activist who is well known locally and has devoted his life to supporting the families of victims of violence.

What's more, he told DailyMail.com, he had 'warned and warned' that it was only a matter of time before innocent children were caught in the crossfire of the city's soaring gun violence.

Speaking exclusively to DailyMail.com he said: 'I warned about this. When you hear about a shooting and people say there were children there and they could almost have hit kids, that's letting you know what's coming.

Scroll down for video

Peace activist KG Wilson, 53, spoke out against the soaring gun violence in Minneapolis after his granddaughter Aniya Allen was killed by a stray bullet

The six-year-old girl (pictured with her grandfather) was struck in the head on the night of May 17, when her mother's car got caught in the crossfire of shooting after they stopped at McDonalds near N 36th Street and N Penn Avenue

'I continued to warn that this was going to come but I never would have thought in my wildest dreams it would be my six-year-old granddaughter.'

Wilson spoke with DailyMail.com just ten days after his granddaughter Aniya Allen was shot. He relived the horror of learning of her death, his struggle to accept that she is gone, and his determination to bring her killer to justice.

Aniya was shot May 17. She died in hospital the following day. She is one of three children shot across three weeks in Minneapolis.

Both the other victims remain in hospital in critical condition and Wilson is providing support for them even in the midst of his own grief.

Ten-year-old LaDavionne Garrett Jr. was shot in the head April 30 as he sat in the backseat of his parents' car.

Nine-year-old Trinity Ottoson-Smith was shot in a drive-by May 15 while jumping on a trampoline at a birthday party near her home.

All the children were shot within a one-mile radius of each other.

Today, the corner of N 36th Street and N Penn Avenue is the site Aniya's memorial: festooned with stuffed unicorns, cuddly toys, candles, and flowers - both plastic and wilting.

The corner of N 36th Street and N Penn Avenue is now the site Aniya's memorial: where mourners have laid down stuffed unicorns, cuddly toys, candles, and flowers

Wilson, a peace activist who has devoted his life to supporting families of victims of violence, said he never imagined his granddaughter would be among those slain

Aniya was just one block away from her home when she was struck in the head. She died in the hospital the following day

Last week it was a scene of unspeakable horror and the gunfight in whose crossfire she was struck. She was just one block from home.

'On this particular day her mom had taken her out. I believe they may have even went swimming, but they went to the lake,' Wilson said.

'Everybody knows my granddaughter loves McDonalds, so after the lake they took her to McDonalds and when they turned onto a street by their home there was gunfire.

'One of the bullets from the gunfire struck my six-year-old granddaughter in the head while she was eating her McDonalds. I'm told that they rushed to the hospital. She was in a coma and the next day my granddaughter passed. She couldn't survive that.'

Wilson was one of the last to learn of her tragic passing. He had overslept that morning and when he woke, with plans to go to the hospital and visit Aniya, he checked his phone and saw 'hundreds of missed calls.'

They were, he said, 'from everybody' - from the mayor to community leaders and family members.

Wilson recalled: 'They said that she had passed, and people were sending their condolences, but I didn't believe it or receive it until I went to the hospital and saw my family there.

'And I was like, "Wow, this is real. They killed my baby."'

Wilson has called for a larger movement from the community to stand up and speak out denounce the growing violence in the city. On social media, he shared a photo of another car caught in the crossfire where Aniya was killed

Aniya was one of three children who were shot in Minneapolis across three weeks. Ten-year-old LaDavionne Garrett Jr (left) was shot in the head April 30 as he sat in the backseat of his parents' car. Trinity Ottoson-Smith, nine, was shot in a drive-by May 15 while jumping on a trampoline. Both remain in hospital

For Wilson and his family, it was the beginning of what he has described as a 'nightmare' from which he cannot wake up.

When he does wake each day he grabs his phone, he said: 'Because I think I missed the call. I think there's going to be a hundred missed calls, like there was to tell me that she didn't make it.

'Now I'm waiting, waking up each morning, for the missed calls saying they found who did this.'

For Wilson, his granddaughter and the other two children are the victims of what he described as, 'a riot [that has been] going on here long before the riots [for George Floyd].'

Wilson's personal tragedy is set against the backdrop of rising crime in the Twin Cities. Shootings alone have risen by 153 per cent this year compared to this point last year.

Little wonder perhaps, that Wilson has described calls to defund or dismantle Minneapolis Police Department as, 'the craziest thing' he's ever heard, dismissing it as a political cause driven by a handful of people in office and not reflective of any grassroots desire.

He is vigorously opposed to the movement that sprang up in the wake of George Floyd's death under the knee of former police officer Derek Chauvin one year ago.

Antrice Sease, the mother of Aniya Allen, is hugged Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey at a vigil in Minneapolis, Wednesday, May 19, 2021

Janay Chappell, 11, sister of Aniya Allen, was overcome with grief as she spoke at a memorial vigil about her sister in Minneapolis on Wednesday

Community members pray at a vigil for Aniya Allen in Minneapolis, Wednesday, May 19, 2021

Fueled by a desire for justice for his granddaughter, and for Ladavionne and Trinity's shooters to be arrested, Wilson does not see how diminishing the police will serve that goal or prevent other families from enduring the pain that his own is currently facing. It is not, he said, a change that is wanted or needed.

He explained: 'There's people who, no matter what, have found that platform to stand on and till the end of the world they're going to stand on that.

'You're not going to see me with those people over there. To bring change we have to focus on what's happening right here. That's what's going on.

'It's time to speak the truth but everybody's afraid to speak the truth. What happened on 38th Street? It's not the same as what's been going on in North Minneapolis [for years].

'A black person who was killed by a white officerthat's something different. I personally don't think it was purposely done, but it was done and somebody needs to pay.

'But we need a movement right here for what's going on here; black people hurting shooting and killing black people. People are afraid to tell the truth.'

The answer, as far as Wilson is concerned, is not to defund the police but to strengthen their bonds with the communities they police.

'I think [defunding the police] is the craziest thing I've ever heard. I could see it if there was a place where there was no crime  some places they police their own community. They don't need police because there's nothing going on there,' he added.

'We are here to tell you today that we need police. We need the sheriff. Send in the National Guard into some places. Just come in here and shut it down. We had a riot going on here long before the riots. That's why I got one murdered grandchild and I'm at the hospital right now for two families of two children who've been shot.'

Wilson, whose mission has always been to quell gun and gang violence, is now committed to helping bring justice to the families of the Trinity and LaDavionne, as well as his own

According to Wilson, the only people in favor of defunding the police are a handful of people on the city council and criminals.

He said: 'It's not coming from the multitude of people. I can tell you this, if I was a criminal, I would support it. I would love it.

'Get rid of the police because they're in my way. You think you've seen some chaos and confusion? Now you're really going to see something.'

For almost two decades Wilson has worked alongside police and enjoyed what he has described as a good relationship with them.

'I've worked with them for years. The chief was an officer when I started. So, we've known it each other for years - my whole journey, probably his whole journey,' he said.

Speaking in the wake of Aniya's death, Chief Medaria Arradondo described her shooting and the shooting of the other two children as 'brazen acts of violence' that had to be stopped.

He said: 'The perpetrators of these crimes should never find refuge or anonymity in our communities.

'Minneapolis police officers will continue to rush into harm's way to save lives however we need help from community leaders and residents to stand up and speak out denouncing loudly that they will not tolerate this violence as well.'

It is a sentiment echoed by Wilson who has been trying to build and encourage a community support system for the police for nearly two decades.

He said: 'So they call and let them know when something's going on. We need police who live in the community, who people know, and they know the people.

'They live right there and get out and walk among people and have events in the community for children. When you do that, the children grow up knowing the police.

Wilson said he had warned that it was only a matter of time children began becoming victims to senseless gun violence, but never imagined that the issue that has been at the center of his life ever since would be so devastatingly visited upon his own home. Pictured: Aniya Allen in an undated photo

Wilson is vigorously opposed to the defund the police movement that sprang up in the wake of George Floyd's death last year and says Minneapolis needs law enforcement to combat violent crime

'But when the police come from Wisconsin or wherever, to them it's just a job. They leave and go back home. When it's your community, and your community member and your neighbor, it's totally different.'

Communities need police, he said, and there is nothing in the death of Floyd to persuade him otherwise.

In Wilson's view, police officers need to be enmeshed in their communities not driven from them. And the images of officers seen by children as they grow up need to be positive.

Wilson's mission has always been to quell gun and gang violence. It is a cause he took up full-time in 2007 after his best friend's daughter, 14-year-old Charez Jones, was shot in the head in a gang-related incident.

He could never have imagined, he said, that the issue that has been at the center of his life ever since would be so devastatingly visited upon his own home.

He had always felt the cause deeply but now, he said: 'This is personal.'

'What's going on in different corners in north Minneapolis, I started fighting for 18 years ago and it's still here now,' he added.

'The same thing is happening right now. I go from emotionally sad, to pouring out tears, to anger and rage. I'm sick of it.

'It's been going on far too long and now I'm at the point where I don't want the same thing to happen to somebody else's child.

'I've been fighting for this but now I actually feel it. I had two of my own sons shot. They both survived. Aniya's father was shot in the neck some years ago.

'But enough is enough and now I just want to do everything I can to try to help all these families bring some justice and some closure and I want to try to bring some safety.'

A reward of $30,000 is being offered for any information leading to the arrest of the shooters in all three cases.

Minneapolis police say the six-year-old girl was shot in the head when her mother drove through what authorities believe was a shootout between rival gangs

'In the beginning I had some kind of piece of forgiveness of, okay, I know you made a mistake but turn yourself in,' Wilson said.

'They haven't turned themselves in. So now I'm angry because it makes me feel like you don't care. And if you're out there you got to be running scared right now. And the most dangerous person on the planet is a person running scared with guns.'

But, Wilson said, 'I am not going to stop trying to bring them to justice. You can run but you can't hide because if I don't see you, if people don't see you, I still believe in God and I trust God and He sees all.

'And He said that vengeance is here. So, you can run, but you will be brought to justice soon.'

Anyone with any information on the shooting of Aniya Allen, LaDavionne Garrett Jr or Trinity Ottoson-Smith should call the anonymous tip line: 1-800-222-8477
The killer who abducted, raped and murdered a 12-year-old girl in a sickening crime that shocked Australia nearly 35 years ago has made a plea for freedom.

Barrie Watts brutally killed young school girl Sian Kingi on the Sunshine Coast on November 27, 1987 with the help of his then-wife and mother-of-six Valmae Beck.

The pair lured 12-year-old Sian to help look for a 'white poodle with a pink bow' before Watts abducted her into the backseat of a Holden Kingswood station wagon.

After gagging Sian and driving her to a remote forest, Watts performed a fantasy he shared with Beck by repeatedly sexually assaulting Sian before strangling and stabbing her.

The man who killed 12-year-old school girls Sian Kingi (pictured) on the Sunshine Coast in 1987 is making a bid for freedom

Barrie Watts (pictured) who raped, abducted and murdered Sian Kingi has applied for parole

Beck and Watts were both sentenced to life imprisonment but Beck later died in 2008, taking her secrets of other potential crimes to the grave to the dismay of detectives.

Now Watts, who is serving a life sentence at Wolston Correctional Centre, has applied for parole almost 35 years after his crime.

State Member for Ninderry Dan Purdie expressed outrage at Watt's plea and said it sent 'a shockwave through my community, police and Sian's family.'

'All  including her parents who I spoke to again this morning  have grave concerns for the persons living in any community in which Barrie Watts may be released into,' the Courier Mail reported.

Mr Purdie said Watts deserved to serve his entire life sentence in prison.

'If Watts is given parole, what precedent would this set? How many others child killers would be released while they still represent an unacceptable risk to the community?' he said.

Watts brutally killed young school girl Sian Kingi in 1987 with the help of his then-wife and mother-of-six Valmae Beck (pictured)

Former Queensland police commissioner Bob Atkinson, who investigated Sian's murder as a detective, said Watts 'would be an unacceptable community risk.'

Retired detective Neil Magnussen also joined the chorus of dismay and said Watt's will 'never, ever be rehabilitated, ever.'

'He's got a thing about young women and girls. He'll never stop. He's a danger to the public,' Mr Magnussen said.

The Morcombe family have thrown their support behind Sian's family after their 13-year-old son Daniel was murdered and abducted in 2003 by Brett Cowan.

Denise Morcombe tweeted on Thursday calling for the Queensland Parole board to not free Watt's from prison.

'You cannot be serious QLD Parole Board even thinking about letting Barrie Watts out  the child killer!' Mrs Morcombe wrote.

'The Kingi and Morcombe families say NO NOT EVER.'
A worker has died after machinery struck him at a factory in Melbourne's outer southeast.

The 47-year-old man was working at the Dandenong South factory when he was hit by a rubber extrusion machine attachment.

He suffered head injuries and later died.

WorkSafe Victoria is investigating the death, the 19th workplace fatality this year.
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Lockheed Martin, the nation's top defense contractor, forced 13 executives including a three-star general to complete a three-day Zoom course so they would 'unlearn their male privilege'.

The course was led by Portland-based firm White Men as Full Diversity Partners (WMFDP). It was carried out last June, at the height of Black Lives Matter protests in the wake of George Floyd's murder, and involved 13 Lockheed employees dialing in for 16 hours. Details of the three-day course last June were obtained by City Journal.

The 13 employees were Director of Aeronautics Mark Ward, retired Air Force lieutenant colonel David Starr, Senior Design Engineer Jeff Schweiss, Risk Management and Sustainability Executive Christopher Geiger, Director Of Business Operation Robert Uebele, Engineering specialist Chris Outzts, Director Eric Pierce, three star retired Lieutenant General Bruce Litchfield, Senior Cost Analyst Todd Nadeau, Director of Global Supply Chain Operations Aaron Huckaby, Specialty Engineering Director Adam Mackie, Director Global Supply Chain Scott Redman. Glenn Woods, vice president of production for the Air Force's $1.7 trillion F-35 fighter jet program, was also present.

It was led by three men from WMFDP; Jim Morris, Mark Havens, and Michael Welp, one of the firm's co-founders. Bill Proudman, the other co-founder, didn't take part.

It's unclear whose decision it was to have the training, or how much Lockheed paid the firm for the 16-hour training course.

On the firm's website, they name the Colonial Pipeline, the City of Portland, NASA, Boeing, Exxon Mobil, Dell, Kohler, Ohio State University, USAA and Suncor as other clients.

From top left to right first row: The three trainers from White Men as Full Diversity Partners, Mark Havens, Michael Welp and Jim Morris, then Director of Aeronautics Mark Ward. Second row: Air Force lieutenant colonel David Starr, Senior Design Engineer Jeff Schweiss, Risk Management and Sustainability Executive Christopher Geiger, and Director Of Business Operation Robert Uebele. Third row: Engineering specialist Chris Outzts, Director Eric Pierce, three star Lieutenant General Bruce Litchfield, Senior Cost Analyst Todd Nadeau. Bottom row: Director of Global Supply Chain Operations Aaron Huckaby, Specialty Engineering Director Adam Mackie and Director Global Supply Chain Scott Redman. Glenn Woods, vice president of production for the Air Force's $1.7 trillion F-35 fighter jet program turned his camera off

The session Lockheed paid for was a 16-hour, virtual White Men's Caucus from White Men As Full Diversity Partners

Lockheed Martin, the nation's top defense contractor, forced 13 executives including a three-star general to complete a three-day Zoom course so they would 'unlearn their male privilege'

Lockheed Martin takes in $6billion a year and 70% of that comes from government contracts.

The training included the generals having to recite statements of privilege like 'my body belongs to me', and statements of frustration from the perspective of minorities like 'I'm tired of being black.'

Retired Air Force lieutenant general Bruce Litchfield - a three star general - was one of the execs who had to take part

They also had to watch videos by beauty brands Dove and Pantene about self-esteem and body positivity.

Some of the talking points included the men adopting 'radical new mindsets' and having to forget their 'problem solving' tendencies to 'listen' instead and accept that 'life is a journey'.

At the start of the session, the men were asked to list connotations of 'white privilege' during a 'free association' exercise.

The trainers wrote down what they said and the connotations included 'old,' 'racist,' 'privileged,' 'anti-women,' 'angry,' 'Aryan Nation,' 'KKK,' 'Founding fathers,' 'guns,' 'guilty,' and 'can't jump', according to City Journal, which obtained the itinerary from the course and a screenshot of the men taking part in it.

The trainers also presented the men with 156 statements of privilege.

They included statements of 'white privilege', statements of 'male privilege' and statements of 'heterosexual privilege' that the men had to discuss.

Some of the white privilege statements included being able to find affordable housing if they move, being able to get a haircut, and being 'encouraged' to make as much money as they can.

Some of the male privilege statements the trainers listed included; 'Unlike a woman who decides to keep her name when she marries, I am not interrogated and shamed by friends and family for doing the same thing'.

These are the answers the men gave when asked what they think assumptions about white men are

The group of 13 men were asked to recite these 'statements of white, male and heterosexual privilege' like the ones listed above

One of the statements of heterosexual privilege that the men had to recite was that they can 'have friendships with or work around children without being accused of recruiting or molesting them'.

The men also had to recite statements from the perspective of women and black people

These are some of the videos the men had to watch as part of the training

These are the other clients the firm says it has worked with

WOKE FIRM THAT DID THE TRAINING IS HIRED BY COMPANIES TO 'AWAKEN' MALE EMPLOYEES The firm hired to lead the training is called White Men as Full Diversity Partners. Its founder is Bill Proudman. The firm was formally started in the late 1990s and their first training lab - White Men and Allies Learning Lab - was launched in 2000. Now, they offer a range of courses including the White Male Caucus - which is the course Lockheed paid for - and free webinars on their website. It's unclear how much Lockheed paid for the course. Some of the free webinars on the company's website include ones titles 'When Our Identities ConflictLearning to See and Hear Each Other Across Difference' and 'Unscripted: Who Gets to Belong?' Among clients listed on the company's website are The City of Portland, NASA, Boeing, Exxon Mobil, Dell, Kohler, Ohio State University, USAA and Suncor. Its website lists 48 members of staff. Proudman said that he started taking an interest in the subject 'after noticing white male executives were not actively engaged in their organizations diversity and inclusion efforts'. He attended the Penn State - where he was a hockey player - then worked at Quest, at Bloombsury University. Advertisement

They also listed the comment: 'I am not expected to "put out" because of my gender' and 'my body belongs to me. my reproductive organs are not seen as the property of other men/the government'.

The heterosexual privilege statements included 'I am not asked to think about why I am straight' and 'I can have friendships with or work around children without being accused of recruiting or molesting them.'

The group was also asked to 'discover the roots of white male culture' focusing on associated traits including 'rugged individualism,' 'hard work,' 'operating from principles' and 'a can-do attitude.'

Then, they had to recite a series of statements from the perspective of a minority.

All of them started with the words 'I'm tired'.

They included: 'Im tired of being black', Im tired of you making more money than me'; 'Im tired of people disparaging our campaigns (like Black Lives Matter)','Im tired of black boys/girls being murdered'; 'Im tired of people thinking theyre smarter and more qualified than me'; 'Im tired of hearing about how we need a wall at the southern borders but not on the northern borders'; 'Im tired of the desire or 'comment to remove racethe concept that we should be colorblind.'

They had to watch videos including one titled 'White Men: Time to discover your cultural blindspots', 'Always: #LikeAGirl' and 'Coca Cola, Remove labels this Ramadan' and an ad campaign by the skincare brand Dove called 'Average or Beautiful?'

Another was Pantene's 'A Man's a Boss, A Woman's Bossy'.

When asked at the start of the training what they thought was in it for them, the Lockheed employees replied: 'I wont get replaced by someone who is a better full diversity partner', '[I will] improve the brand, image, reputation of white men,' and 'I [will] have less nagging sense of guilt that I am the problem.'

Lockheed told Chris Rufo, the journalist who revealed the training: 'Lockheed Martin has robust employee training programs focused on our core values of doing what is right, respecting others and performing with excellence.

'Like many corporations, we employ multiple vendors and continuously evaluate the effectiveness of training programs to ensure they are aligned with our values, applicable laws and regulations, and incorporate employee feedback and best practices.'

Rufo tweeted that it was an outrage taxpayer dollars might be being used on such training.

In 2018, 70 percent of Lockheed's income came from contracts with the government.
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Four cops have come under fire after posing for a photo with a smiling, shirtless and handcuffed bank robbery suspect following a massive manhunt in Mississippi.

The photo emerged a day after Eric Boykin was arrested on Tuesday for allegedly holding up a Hancock Bank in the small town of Prentiss and fleeing the scene.

Multiple federal and state law enforcement agencies including the FBI and ATF joined the search before Boykin was found in a wooded area about 600 yards from the bank, according to WLBT.

The outlet published the photo of Boykin - who's smiling - flanked by four armed officers and three police dogs. Two of the officers flashed grins, including one of the officers who has his hand on Boykin's shoulder.

The image immediately sparked backlash on social media as critics slammed the officers for turning the serious ordeal into a photo-op that resembled hunters posing with an animal trophy.

Four cops have come under fire after posing for a photo (above) with smiling, shirtless and handcuffed bank robbery suspect Eric Boykin following a massive manhunt in Mississippi

The image immediately sparked backlash on social media as critics slammed the officers for turning the serious ordeal into a silly photo-op

It remains unclear which agency the officers belonged to. Prentiss Police Investigator Richard Browning confirmed to DailyMail.com that the officers were not part of his department and speculated that they may have come in from Louisiana to join the search.

'I didn't even know about the photo until reporters started calling me,' Browning told DailyMail.com. 'It's unfortunate. I agree that it's in poor taste.'

The only Louisiana law enforcement agency to known to have been involved in the search was a Louisiana State Prison System K9 team, according to WLBT. DailyMail.com left a message looking for comment.

Critics sounding off on Twitter slammed the officers for dehumanizing Boykin by proudly posing next to him after he was captured.

Josie Duffy Rice, a criminal justice system reporter and president of the 'Appeal' tweeted, 'So either 1) none of the people involved, from the officers to the news station to the staffer who posted this, realized what a bad look this is or 2) they do know how it looks, and thats why they posted it. Those are the only two possibilities! and they are both very very bad.'

'This picture has a very unsettling "big game hunt" vibe. Like, how did it come about? "Hey guys, gather 'round so we can remember this moment, bring the dogs!" I hope I'm wrong,' another Twitter user said.

'Omg. The cops look like they are posing with a lion or deer they shot. This is f***ked up,' a Twitter user said.

'And who would be considered the "animal" in this "big game" hunt? And is there are a history of dehumanizing and likening black people to animals? if that is the mindset of these officers - taking a picture of their "trophy," then it is most certainly about race,' a Twitter user said in a long list of response to Rice's tweet.

Some of Twitter's wrath was directed at the news station who ran the photo, which is still attached to their story about the arrest but has since been deleted off Twitter.

WLBT News Director Mark Little declined comment Thursday morning but said the news outlet followed protocols to secure the photo from a source and he said. 'more information could be coming out today' but didn't elaborate.

Thursday morning WLBT added this at the bottom of the story:

'WLBT has asked multiple agencies for the identity of the officers pictured and whether a departments normal procedure is to take pictures like this at the end of a search operation. At this point, the routine procedure and identities of the officers are unknown. Well continue asking those questions and make updates available.'

Originally, WLBT sourced the photo to the Prentiss Police Department then changed to 'Special to WLBT'.

'If I were running a news station's social media, I would simply not post pictures that look like human trophy hunts for clicks,' someone on Twitter said.

Another Twitter users said simply, 'Um, no one at the news station thought this through?
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One year after many U.S. cities gave in to dramatic proposals to slash police department budgets, some are having second thoughts and quietly seeking to boost funding for cops as violent crime soars.

The Democratic mayors of New York City, Baltimore and Los Angeles are among those now backpedaling on their vows to defund the police as they face fury from residents over spiraling crime rates.

Out of the nation's 20 largest police departments, city leaders have already submitted next year's budget proposals for 12, and nine of those request funding increases ranging from 1 to 6 percent, according to the Wall Street Journal.

The sea change comes a year after the murder of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer spurred calls to defund and even abolish police departments, with many city leaders buckling to meet the demands.

Meanwhile, the murder rate soared an average of 30 percent across 34 major cities last year, and has continued to increase dramatically this year in many places.

Demonstrators calling to defund the Minneapolis Police Department march on University Avenue on June 6, 2020. Cities that cut police funding last year are now reconsidering

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, and Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott are all backpedaling on their moves to cut police funding

In New York City, Mayor Bill de Blasio reversed course and promised $92 million for a new precinct after scrapping the project last summer as he vowed to slash the NYPD budget by $1 billion.

Last month, de Blasio admitted that the initial funding cuts were his response to the 'environment at that moment,' saying the city now had more funds available due to federal stimulus.

In Baltimore, Mayor Brandon Scott, who last year led efforts to cut police funding by $22 million as a city councilman, is now pleading with the council for an increase of $27 million.

In Los Angeles, Mayor Eric Garcetti has proposed an increase of about $50 million after the city cut $150 million from the LAPD budget last year.

In Oakland, California, city lawmakers last month restored $3.3 million of the $29 million in police cuts, and Mayor Libby Schaaf is now proposing to increase the department's budget by another $24 million.

In Minneapolis, the city cut $8 million from the department last year, but facing an exodus of cops and rising crime, restored $6.4 million.

In Chicago, there were 278 more murders in 2020, which equated to a 55% surge year-over-year, while New York Citys 131 added homicides accounted for a 43% jump

National Commission of COVID-19 and Criminal Justice (NCCCJ) released a study which found that murder rates in 34 American cities rose nearly 30 per cent in 2020

'If you want to fix policing you have to hire cops, you have to train them differently and hold them accountable,' Chuck Wexler, the Police Executive Research Forum's executive director, told the Journal.

'The notion that taking away resources is going to improve policing is ridiculous,' he said.

In New York, elected leaders have had to face facts as shootings soar and seemingly random attacks on strangers regularly make headlines.

So far this year, shooting incidents in the city are up 82 percent from last year, and murders are 22 percent from last year and 45 percent from 2019 levels.

In total in 2021, there have been 32,695 major crimes reported. There have been nearly 400 more major crimes reported this week in New York than there were in the same week last year - a surge in 30 percent.

'We have a major crime problem in New York City,' Governor Andrew Cuomo admitted at a press conference on Wednesday.

A man was slashed in the neck on the subway platform at the Union Square station earlier this month. The incident was reported around 4 p.m. on the L train platform

Atlanta councilman who voted to defund police is nearly killed by carjackers Atlanta councilman Antonio Brown complained of a slow police response At a ribbon-cutting in northwest Atlanta, four people hopped into councilman Antonio Brown's car on Wednesday as he was getting out to speak to someone just before noon - and took off. 'Several males entered his unlocked car and drove away with it,' police stated. Brown was driving a Mercedes Coupe, which has a push-button ignition. He said he held onto the car and was dragged for around a block before letting go. The councilman told WSBTV that he was on hold with 911 for five minutes after the incident. Brown also claims it took 45 minutes for police to arrive because it was assigned as a low-priority dispatch. Brown is running for mayor of Atlanta on a platform of 'reimagining public safety' and has previously expressed support for the 'Defund the Police' movement. Advertisement

'New Yorkers don't feel safe and they don't feel safe because the crime rate is up. It's not that they are being neurotic or overly sensitive - they are right,' he said.

Cuomo said the crime wave threatened to derail the city's recovery from the pandemic, noting: 'Everything we just talked about, with the economy coming back, you know what the first step is? People have to feel safe.'

In a swipe at his political nemesis de Blasio, the governor said that defunding the police was not the correct solution.

'Until you restore the trust and make the reforms necessary, we're going to have this problem -- defund the police is not the answer. It basically means abolish the police,' he said.

'That's going to help? Gun violence is going up, all crimes going up and that's going to help? No. It's reform so that the community says - I now trust the relationship.

'I am a lifelong New Yorker. I've seen this cycle over and over and over again I remember getting on a subway train and making sure there was no jewelry, making sure you weren't wearing a chain,' he said. 'That was real.'

The tension between state and local leaders also played out this week in Texas, where the state legislature is pushing a bill that would severely punish cities that defund their police department.

Aimed primarily at city leaders in Austin, the liberal-dominated state capital, HB 1900 passed the Texas Senate on Monday over the objections of Democrats.

The bill would allow vast tracts of Austin that have been annexed since the 1990s to vote to secede from the city unless police funding is restored.

The secession votes could severely hurt Austin's budget if they passed, decimating the city's tax base.

The bill would bar Austin from reannexing the areas for 10 years, and only if police funding is restored to prior levels.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott, a Republican, has vowed to sign the bill into law.

It comes as data continues to show a disturbing national increase in violent crime, with one study showing an increase of 1,200 murders last year compared to 2019.

'Homicide rates were higher during every month of 2020 relative to rates from the previous year,' states a report from the National Commission of COVID-19 and Criminal Justice (NCCCJ)

'That said, rates increased significantly in June, well after the pandemic began, coinciding with the death of George Floyd and the mass protests that followed,' the report added.

The group, which was launched in July 2020 by the nonpartisan Council on Criminal Justice, characterized the homicide rate spike as an 'historic' and 'troubling increase that has no modern precedent.'

The 26-page study examined crime rates for 10 different offenses, including homicide, aggravated assault and robbery, in 34 American cities ranging in size from Norfolk, Virginia - the smallest city in the sample with 245,000 residents - to New York City - the largest city with 8.42 million residents.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott, a Republican, on Sunday vowed to sign into law a bill that would punish large cities for defunding their police agencies. Abbott cited a shooting that took place in Austin on Sunday

Motor vehicle thefts surged, reaching the highest rates in the fall, as many people worked from home

Aggravated assault rates in the 34 cities that were part of the study spiked by 6 per cent, compared to last year

A protester in NYC calls for defunding the police last June. Rising crime rates have many city leaders reconsidering their moves to cut police funding

Homicide rates were 30 percent higher than in 2019, representing 1,268 more deaths in the sample of cities than the year before. Of the 34 cities in the study, 29 experienced a spike in murders.

However, property and drug crime rates, with the exception of motor vehicle theft, fell significantly during 2020 -- a trend some researchers attribute to either less community willingness to report minor crimes, or less proactive policing.

Residential burglary decreased by 24 percent, nonresidential burglary by 7 percent, larceny by 16 percent, and drug offenses by 30 percent.

Chicago added 278 homicides to its 2019 total of 502, for an increase of 55 percent, while New York added 131 homicides, representing a 43 percent surge.

'The three largest cities (New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago) accounted for fully 40% of the 1,268 additional people killed in 2020,' reads the report. 'While there is variation among the cities, what is most notable is that homicide rose substantially in the vast majority of them.'
Four vessels brought in to the busy port town were among the first since a flurry of arrivals last Thursday

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Dozens of migrants made the dangerous Channel crossing by small boat today as people smugglers seized upon the first calm weather in more than a week.

About 50 people are believed to have been detained so far in around four boats, according to eyewitnesses, with more expected to arrive during the afternoon's sunshine.

The first vessels were intercepted at around 9am and were brought into Dover Marina, Kent by Border Force officers.

Two groups of around six each attempted the crossing in small red and grey rigid hulled inflatable boats, and a larger group of around 10 were also brought in on the back of a Border Force vessel shortly after 11am.

The migrants, all wearing orange lifejackets and face masks, were escorted up the gangway by Immigration Enforcement for processing.

About 50 people are believed to have been detained at Dover so far in around four boats, according to eyewitnesses, with more expected to arrive during the afternoon's sunshine

One man who was pictured appeared to be wearing a full white PPE overall as he was brought in to the harbour but it is currently unknown why he was dressed in the protective suit

The migrants, all wearing orange lifejackets and face masks, were escorted up the gangway by Immigration Enforcement for processing

They were mainly African men with some wearing designer clothing and jewellery

The first vessels were intercepted at around 9am and were brought into Dover Marina, Kent by Border Force officers

They were mainly African men with some wearing designer clothing and jewellery.

One man who was pictured appeared to be wearing a full white PPE overall as he was brought in to the harbour but it is currently unknown why he was dressed in the protective suit.

He was among the first migrants to arrive on UK shores since 29 people made the dangerous journey in two boats last Thursday.

So far at least 1,028 migrants have arrived in May. The Home Office is yet to confirm exactly how many migrants were brought in today.

They are among the first migrants to arrive on UK shores since 29 people made the dangerous journey in two boats last Thursday. It is believed the people smugglers' operations have been interrupted by bad weather

So far at least 1,028 migrants have arrived in May. The Home Office is yet to confirm exactly how many migrants were brought in today

A Home Office spokesman said last week: 'Criminal gangs are putting people's lives at risk through these dangerous and unnecessary crossings'

3,136 migrants have arrived in 2021 so far. The figure is more than double the 1,330 who had arrived by May 15 last year.

More people have arrived in May than any previous month this year, with 3,136 migrants arriving in 2021 so far.

The figure is more than double the 1,330 who had arrived by May 15 last year.

A Home Office spokesman said last week: 'Criminal gangs are putting people's lives at risk through these dangerous and unnecessary crossings.

'We are bringing legislation forward through our New Plan for Immigration which will break the business model of the people smuggling networks and save lives.'
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The San Jose shooter who gunned down nine of his colleagues at a California rail yard had talked about killing people at work more than a decade ago, his ex-wife has said.

'I never believed him, and it never happened. Until now,' a tearful Cecilia Nelms said on Wednesday following Samuel Cassidy's 6:30 a.m. rampage at a facility for the Valley Transportation Authority.

Cassidy killed nine of his co-workers, aged between 29 and 63, during the assault which Santa Clara County Sheriff Laurie Smith said was 'very deliberate and very fast', before turning the gun on himself.

Sheriff Smith confirmed Cassidy had two semi-automatic handguns and 11 loaded magazines. The 9 mm handguns he had appear to be legal, Smith said, though his 11 high-capacity magazines  each with 12 rounds  are prohibited in California. Authorities do not yet know how he obtained the weaponry.

Smith told the Today show it appears Cassidy set timers to burn his house down to coincide with opening fire at rail depot. She said: 'The call came out with the shots fired at 6:34 in the morning and then the fire was reported at 6:37. So he must have had some way to set it or have someone else do it.

'What we're operating under now...is that he set some kind of a device to go off at a certain time, probably to coincide with the shooting.'

Sheriff Smith also revealed how Cassidy had picked out his intended victims beforehand and fired 39 shots. She said: 'It appears to us at this point that he said to one of the people there: "Im not going to shoot you". And then he shot other people. So I imagine there was some kind of thought on who he wanted to shoot.'

Employee Kirk Bertolet said: 'He was targeting certain people. He walked by other people. He let other people live as he gunned down other people.'

The Santa Clara County Office of the Medical Examiner-Coroner identified the victims as Paul Delacruz Megia, 42; Adrian Balleza, 29; Jose Dejesus Hernandez, 35; Timothy Michael Romo, 49; Michael Joseph Rudometkin, 40; Abdolvahab Alaghmandan, 63; Lars Kepler Lane, 63 and Taptejdeep Singh, 36.

Singh is said to have died helping others to escape, his family said. His uncle, Sakhwant Dhillon, said: 'He told people, 'be careful, hide.' He was running around the building to save others' lives.'

Investigators have offered no immediate word on a possible motive but his ex-wife said he used to come home from work resentful and angry over what he perceived as unfair assignments.

'He could dwell on things,' she said. The two were married for about 10 years until a 2005 divorce filing and she hadn't been in touch with Cassidy for about 13 years, Nelms said.

The gunman - identified as Samuel Cassidy, left, - opened fire at the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority light rail yard on Wednesday morning. His ex wife Cecilia Nelms, right, said he had talked about killing people at work more than a decade ago

Damage from a fire at the house of the suspect of a shooting is pictured. The blaze was first reported around the same time Samuel Cassidy began shooting, leading to speculation he used a timed device to set his home alight

Emergency responders respond to a fire at the house of the suspect of a shooting, since named as Samuel Cassidy, 57

Santa Clara County Sheriff Laurie Smith confirmed Cassidy had two semi-automatic handguns and 11 loaded magazines. She told the Today show it appears Cassidy set timers to burn his house down to coincide with opening fire at rail depot

Sheriff Smith added: 'We know that the suspect entered the facility and began shooting. And there were deceased in two separate buildings which we believe he went from building to building.

'Found in the scene of the shooting, our dogs alerted on probably what is his locker. And in it was materials for bombs, detonator cords, the precursors to an explosive.

'And I think they also found at least rounds at the house too.'

'When our deputies went through the door, initially he was still firing rounds. When our deputy saw him, he took his life,' Smith had earlier told reporters.

The sheriff's office is next door to the rail yard, which serves the county of more than 1 million people in the heart of the Silicon Valley.

Chilling surveillance video surfaced of Cassidy, 57, leaving his home shortly before the massacre

Samuel Cassidy, 57, opened fire shortly before 7am after he calmly set off from his home carrying a duffel bag which police believe contained the gun used in the attack. His home is around ten minutes drive away

Chilling footage shows maintenance worker Cassidy calmly setting off from his home carrying a duffel bag which police believe contained the gun used in the attack.

Sources said Cassidy shot virtually everyone on the morning shift, including some he had worked with for years.

It was the 15th mass killing in the nation this year, all of them shootings that have claimed at least four lives each for a total of 86 deaths, according to a database compiled by The Associated Press, USA Today and Northeastern University.

At the White House, President Joe Biden ordered flags to be flown at half-staff and urged Congress to act on legislation to curb gun violence.

'Every life that is taken by a bullet pierces the soul of our nation. We can, and we must, do more,' Biden said in a statement.

Gov. Gavin Newsom visited the site and then spoke emotionally about the country's latest mass killing.

'Theres a numbness some of us are feeling about this. Theres a sameness to this,' he said. 'It begs the damn question of what the hell is going on in the United States of America?'

The shooting took place in two buildings and killed employees who had been bus and light rail operators, mechanics, linemen and an assistant superintendent over the course of their careers. One had worked for the agency since 1999.

Another man wounded in the attack was in critical condition at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, spokesperson Joy Alexiou said.

Singh had worked as a light rail train driver for eight or nine years and had a wife, two small children and many family members, said his cousin, Bagga Singh.

'We heard that he chose the people to shoot, but I dont know why they choose him because he has nothing to do with him,' he said.

Lars Lane, 63, was shot dead by co-worker Cassidy at the rail yard shortly before 7am. Lane was described as a loving 'husband, brother, father and grandfather' by relatives

Victim Taptejdeep Singh, 36, was married father of two young children, according to ABC 7

Michael Rudometikin was also killed in the mass shooting at VTA on Wednesday morning was one of the eight people killed by co-worker Samuel Cassidy at the VTA rail yard on Wednesday morning

Paul Delacruz Megia is pictured in a social media photo. The 42-year-old dad was described as a 'ray of sunshine'

Jose Dejesus Hernande, 35, (left) and Adrian Balleza, 29, (right) were also killed in Wednesday's rail yard massacre

'Heroic' railyard worker told colleagues to hide in an office and then ran through the building to warn others before he was gunned down in a stairwell, family say Taptejdeep Singh, 36, is said to have died helping others to escape, his family have said. His uncle, Sakhwant Dhillon, said: 'He told people, 'be careful, hide.' He was running around the building to save others' lives.' Singhs brother, Bagga, added: 'He put a lady in a control room to hide. He saved her and rushed down the stairway. 'He should have saved his life, too. We lost a good person.' Singh had worked as a light rail train driver for eight or nine years and had a wife, two small children and many family members, said his cousin, Bagga Singh. 'We heard that he chose the people to shoot, but I dont know why they choose him because he has nothing to do with him,' he said. Dhillon added: 'He was a good person. He helped everybody.' Singhs family were pictured devastated at the scene Wednesday evening. His brother-in-law, P.J. Bath told The Mercury News he came into contact with the shooter in a stairwell: 'He just happened to be in the way, I guess.' Advertisement

San Jose City Councilman Raul Peralez said Rudometkin was a close friend.

'There are no words to describe the heartache we are feeling right now, especially for his family,' he wrote on Facebook. 'Eight families are feeling this same sense of loss tonight and our entire community is mourning as well.'

A friend of Paul Delacruz Megia similarly paid tribute on Facebook, describing him 'as ray of sunshine'.

'My heart is broken for your kids and family,' the pal wrote of the 42-year-old dad.

Meanwhile, victim Lars Lane was described as a loving 'husband, brother, father and grandfather' by relatives who spoke with FOX 40.

His brother, Edward Lane, told the publication he was devastated by the 'horrible' situation.

The shooter had more than one gun, county District Attorney Jeff Rosen said. It wasn't immediately clear whether he had obtained the guns legally.

In court documents, an ex-girlfriend described Cassidy as volatile and violent, with major mood swings because of bipolar disorder that became worse when he drank heavily.

Several times while he was drunk, Cassidy forced himself on her sexually despite her refusals, pinning her arms with his body weight, the woman alleged in a 2009 sworn statement filed after Cassidy had sought a restraining order against her. The documents were obtained by The San Francisco Chronicle.

Cassidy's father James Cassidy, 88, answered the phone to DailyMail.com Wednesday and said: 'I'm sorry, I don't know what he might have been going through.'

He told The Daily Beast his son 'seemed completely himself' before the shooting, adding: 'He didn't talk about his job or politics. I just found out he was dead and his house on fire and all that a minute ago.'

Cesar Chavez Quinteros, a friend of Cassidy, told DailyMail.com that Cassidy suffered from depression and was on medication.

'I know he had some issues with depression and was on meds,' Quinteros said. 'Not sure if there were other issues other than some inner demons like many of us have. It's sad to hear they finally got the best of him.

'I can only relate his actions today on some sort of mental illness. He was not at all like he will be portrayed in the following days due to today's events.'

'I don't have much to say other than I'm just in complete shock,' he said. 'During the time that I knew him I never saw any signs in Sam doing something like this. He was a very nice man to those closer to him, polite and kept to himself. He was very smart, loved reading, especially Stephen King books.'

Emergency personnel respond to a shooting at a Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) facility on Wednesday

Tactical law enforcement officers move through the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) light-rail yard where a mass shooting occurred Wednesday

San Jose Bomb Squad technician and his team meet before entering the scene of the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority mass shooting

Cassidy had worked for Valley Transportation Authority since at least 2012, according to the public payroll and pension database Transparent California, first as a mechanic from 2012 to 2014, then as someone who maintained substations.

Officials also were continuing to investigate the house fire. Public records show Cassidy owned the two-story home where firefighters responded after being notified by a passerby.

Law enforcement officers cordoned off the area near the home and went in and out Wednesday.

People take part in a vigil held by the Interfaith Community following the mass shooting

Doug Suh, who lives across the street, told The Mercury News in San Jose that Cassidy seemed 'strange' and that he never saw anyone visit.

'Id say hello, and hed just look at me without saying anything,' Suh said. Once, Cassidy yelled at him to stay away as he was backing up his car. 'After that, I never talked to him again.'

Wednesdays attack was the deadliest shooting in the San Francisco Bay Area since 1993, when a gunman attacked law offices in San Franciscos Financial District, killing eight people before taking his own life.

It also was Santa Clara Countys second mass shooting in less than two years. A gunman killed three people and then himself at a popular garlic festival in Gilroy in July 2019.
Europe's top rights court on Thursday criticised an Italian court for perpetuating sexist stereotypes in its ruling on a case brought by a woman who said she was gang-raped.

The woman accused seven men of attacking her in a car after a party in 2008 when she was a student.

An appeals court in Florence in 2015 overturned the convictions of six of the men, citing inconsistencies in the woman's account of the alleged attack.

The European Court of Human Rights, pictured above, criticised an Italian court for perpetuating sexist stereotypes in its ruling on a case brought by a woman who said she was gang-raped

The European Court of Human Rights did not challenge that verdict but considered whether the wording of the judgement violated the woman's right to privacy, enshrined in the European Convention on Human Rights.

Concluding that her right to privacy had been violated, the ECHR said the 'language and arguments' used by the Italian court 'conveyed prejudices existing in Italian society regarding the role of women'.

'In particular, the Court considered the references to the red underwear 'shown' by the applicant in the course of the evening to be unjustified, as were the comments regarding her bisexuality, relationships and casual sexual relations prior to the events in question.'

The woman accused seven men of attacking her in a car after a party in 2008 when she was a student (File image)

The Strasbourg court also took issue with the Florence court's referral to the woman's 'ambivalent attitude towards sex' and the questions it raised around the woman's role in a film made by one of her alleged attackers before the alleged rape.

The ECHR said it was crucial that courts 'avoided reproducing sexist stereotypes' or 'playing down gender-based violence and exposing women to secondary victimisation by making guilt-inducing and judgmental comments'.

It ordered the Italian state to pay the woman 12,000 euros ($14,600) in compensation.
A 20-year-old student has been slapped with a 90 fine after he was confronted by an angry parent while waiting to pick up his siblings outside a Jewish school.

Samiul Islam draped a Palestinian flag over his car bonnet before parking up outside the Kantor King Solomon High School - which is a state comprehensive - in Barkingside, east London.

Footage filmed on Mr Islam's phone showed the moment he told a woman 'go on, what were you saying? Public car park. She said you're going to get done. You f***ing did, you well did'.

Ten officers in six police cars later swooped on the Bangladeshi student and handed him a 90 fine for causing 'harassment and distress' in breach of a Public Order Act.

It comes as Jewish people across London have complained for weeks about being subjected to anti-semitism, especially from protesters voicing their anger at the Israeli bombing campaign on the Gaza Strip.

Mr Islam said he was waiting in his car to pick up his siblings from the school when a man and a woman approached him and made offensive comments about Palestine.

Samiul Islam parked up outside the Kantor King Solomon High School, in Barkingside, east London, while waiting for his siblings

He described the situation as 'stupid' and 'disgusting', adding: 'How does someone with a flag on their bonnet cause the public a threat?'

'I've been harassed by three members of the public for sitting in my car and using the phone,' he claimed. 'But to them I'm a bigger threat because I have a flag on my bonnet which caused them to call for six other police cars to come.

'There were around 10 officers for what over a flag when they could be out there dealing with real criminals and crimes.'

Islam discusses the incident with police

The flag was seen on his bonnet in the wake of protests across London which saw tens of thousands of demonstrators gather in the capital for a second weekend in a row to call for an 'urgent' resolution to the Israeli-Palestine conflict.

Mr Islam filmed the altercation in the car park.

In the footage a woman can be seen recording him as she holds the hand of a young girl while standing next to a white car.

The woman can be seen holding her phone up, appearing to record the young man.

He asks her: 'Go on, what were you saying? Public car park. She said you're going to get done. You f***ing did, you well did.'

As he speaks the woman appears to turn to the white car's driver and tell them: 'Look at him shouting at me.'

Mr Islam interjects: 'If you can record, I can record, no no no listen.'

She then replies: 'I didn't say anything to you, I was talking to this lady here.'

In a second video, Mr Islam can be seen discussing the incident with a police officer.

She tells him that he can display what he wants on his car 'as long as it's not offensive,' although the 20-year-old was later fined.

Police said a verbal dispute broke out between the driver and a member of the public.

Ten officers in six police cars then swooped on the Bangladeshi student (pictured with his car) and handed him a 90 fine for causing 'harassment and distress'

Police said a verbal dispute broke out between the driver and a member of the public. Pictured, the fine

In a statement, a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said: 'At approximately 16:00hrs on Wednesday, 19 May police on a patrol were alerted to a verbal dispute that had occurred between the driver of a car bearing a Palestine flag and a member of the public.

'Officers spoke to all parties involved. No persons were detained. The driver was subsequently issued with a penalty notice. There were no arrests.'

In a furious Facebook post Mr Islam slammed 'Zionists' and claims they told him Palestine was 'going to get done'.

He wrote: 'Got FINE cos "Palestine Flag Was Causing Distress." What the f*** is this. What have I even done?

'This is Disgusting... Zionists. I'm picking up my sisters from school and I've got the Palestine flag on my car bonnet (sic).'

He explained: 'I'm in the car park...picking up my sisters and this guy comes up to me saying that Palestine is [going to] get done.

'So you think I'm gonna be quiet if someone says something like that.

'So I'm like what do you mean, and he's like look what [you are] doing you have a flag on [your] car [you are] trying to intimidate people. I'm like I'm not doing anything.

'My car [is in a] public car park so I can have whatever I want on my car.

He also vowed to fight the fine, adding: 'I most certainly am taking it to court. I'm not paying that never'

'Then I'm leaving the car park this woman looks dead into my eyes and says just watch how we take over Palestine and you guys will get done. (sic)

'So I stop reverse back to her and was like sorry? Just repeat that again then she had a massive go at me and I'm like I [can't be a***d].

'I'm leaving the car park next thing I know I got flashing blue lights [and I have been] pulled over for causing harassment and distress apparently.

'Six other police cars come. I'm like what's the need for this why [you] mans harassing me for, I didn't say anything bad.

'Then after four hours feds show up at my house and give me a 90 fine for harassing.'

He also vowed to fight the fine, adding: 'I most certainly am taking it to court. I'm not paying that never. Disgusting behaviour that is.'

A spokesperson for Kantor King Solomon High School declined to comment on the incident.
Luis 'Lue' Elizondo filed a 64-page complaint to the Department of Defense's Inspector General claiming high-ranking officials tried to silence him about the Pentagon's UFO program

The former counterintelligence specialist who first blew the whistle on the Department of Defense's UFO program has claimed that top Pentagon officials engaged in a 'disinformation campaign' to discredit him.

Luis 'Lue' Elizondo filed a 64-page complaint to the agency's inspector general on May 3 detailing how he claims high-ranking Defense Department officials tried to silence him since he first spoke out about the Advanced Aerial Threat Identification Program (AATIP) in 2017.

Elizondo was assigned to work for the program, which investigated reports of 'unmanned aerial phenomena', in 2008 and grew increasingly frustrated as his bosses refused to take seriously reports of high-performing aircrafts, he wrote in the IG report obtained by Politico.

He said reports of 'unmanned aerial phenomena' were increasing over the years, 'yet our resources were minimal, and leadership involvement was almost non-existent'.

'After increased frustration, I became alarmed by the frequency and duration of UAP activity in and around controlled US Airspace,' Elizondo wrote. 'The instances seemed more provocative, and during one instance, they came within feet of a US fighter aircraft.'

He retired from the Department of Defense in October 2017, and released three Navy videos he was able to get declassified showing military officials coming in contact with these unidentified flying objects.

Elizondo said he has since endured 'malicious activities, coordinated disinformation, professional misconduct, whistleblower reprisal and explicit threats perpetrated by certain senior-level Pentagon officials' which 'suggest a coordinated effort to obfuscate the truth from the American people, while impugning my reputation as a former intelligence officer at the Pentagon.'

Elizondo retired from the Pentagon in 2017, and has since released footage of UFO sightings

Elizondo claimed the Pentagon released press statements asserting he had no official role in the UFO research, despite the agency previously confirming his role in the project, and alleges that one of his colleagues at the Pentagon sought to damage his career by having him investigated for releasing UFO videos, even after he was cleared of any wrongdoing.

Politico did not name the officials identified in Elizondo's report because it is unclear whether they are being investigated by the IG.

In his report, Elizondo claims a senior official warned him that he would tell people he was crazy and 'it might impact your security clearance'.

'I responded ... by telling him that he can take any action he thinks is prudently necessary, but that I was not mentally impaired, not have I ever violated my security oath,' Elizondo wrote in the complaint, saying he did not meet with the official again out of fear of retribution.

He also claimed the press office made statements asserting that the department had no record of his involvement in the UFO project, but had previously admitted he worked on AATIP.

'Several internet bloggers were notified ... that I had no duties regarding AATIP and that AATIP did not involve the study of UAPs,' Elizondo wrote. 'As a result, the bloggers began ... reporting accusing me of being a fabricator.'

When he asked officials why they changed his story, he said, one particular individual told him he 'was not happy with the way this was being handled internally with the department,' saying he was 'aware I ran AATIP, but forces within the building were telling him not to admit it.'

In his IG complaint, Elizondo claims Pentagon officials engaged in a coordinated effort to discredit him after he released the videos

The Department of Defense has now acknowledged the existence of the AATIP program, and is expected to release a report about it next month. But Elizondo said it has still not corrected the record on his involvement.

His attorney, Daniel Sheehan, who has previously represented the New York Times in its publishing of the Pentagon Papers and has publicly said he believes in little green men, said he believes this represents a cover-up at the department and wants to use the IG complaint to force the Pentagon to clear up any questions about the program.

Sheehan told Politico there is an 'extraordinarily bizarre process going on in the heart of the national security state bureaucracy where general officers, secretaries of defense are not being briefed in on something that is transparently within their jurisdiction.'

'This is a profound and fundamental problem that they view as being above their pay grade,' Sheehan said. 'They know something is going on and they don't care.'

In the years since Elizondo came public with his claims, other top officials have reported seeing these mysterious flying objects.

A retired fighter pilot reported seeing a Tic Tac-shaped UFO appear to fly erratically to the right and keep pace with her ship in 2004, releasing video of the encounter.

'The technology that we witnessed with the Tic Tac was something we would not have been able to defend our forces against at the time,' Sean Cahil - a retired US Navy Chief Master-at-Arms - told CNN's Chris Cuomo of one recently-released video.

'What we saw in the Tic Tac is the five observables. [These] indicate a technology that outstrips our arsenal by at least 100 to 1000 years at the moment.'

In an interview with The Late Late Show host James Corden, former President Barack Obama admitted last week that the UFO videos are real and should be taken seriously

Former military officials claim the UFOs in the footage moved in ways we do not yet have the technology for

Other footage that was recently confirmed as real by the Pentagon appeared to show a UFO buzz a United States stealth ship near San Diego before diving under the water.

Commenting on the video, an ex-navy officer said that the technology on display is 100 to 1000 years ahead of that possessed by the United States.

'What we're seeing are a number of distinct and different things,' he said.

'Sometimes we're seeing a 50-foot object that can travel at hypersonic speeds and seemingly go into orbit or come down from altitudes of potentially above 100,000 feet.'

He added that the social stigma around reporting such events has for a long time kept witnesses of such phenomena quiet.

But just last week, former President Barack Obama confirmed the existence of UFOs with greater maneuverability and speed than anything in the US military exist - and said they must be taken seriously.

'What is true... is that there's footage and records of objects in the skies that we don't know exactly what they are,' he told The Late Late Show host James Corden.

'We can't explain how they moved, their trajectory they did not have an easily explainable pattern,' he said.

'So I think that people still take seriously trying to investigate and figure out what that is. But I have nothing to report to you today.'

The Department of Defense's watchdog is now expected to examine how the Pentagon has handled UFO reports, with a source telling CNN earlier this month that there will be more inquiries announced in the near future.

Meanwhile, Elizondo is scheduled to meet with investigators again next month.
The death of a diabetic teenager after developing gastro during a Melbourne school trip to Vietnam will be examined in an inquest.

Lachlan Cook became critically ill during a World Challenge trip with Kilvington Grammar School in September 2019.

The 16-year-old had been managing type one diabetes since the age of nine. His glucose level spiked after he developed gastro in Hoi An.

The next day, Lachlan became unresponsive and staff rushed him to hospital, where he went into cardiac arrest.

An unresponsive 16-year-old Lachlan Cook was rushed to Royal Children's Hospital (pictured) in Melbourne as he went into cardiac arrest in September 2019

He was flown to Bangkok, then the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne and died from complications on October 4 that year.

Lachlan would have turned 18 on Wednesday.

Instead, his devastated parents attended Victoria's Coroners Court on Thursday for a preliminary hearing ahead of an inquest.

Coroner Audrey Jamieson is set to examine issues including how Lachlan managed his diabetes and guided staff about what to do when he became unwell.

The court was told his doctor had signed off on a plan to manage the condition ahead of the trip and the school was informed.

The case is due back before Ms Jamieson in July.
Republican senators outlined a $928 billion infrastructure proposal Thursday, a counteroffer to President Joe Biden's more sweeping plan as the two sides struggle to negotiate a bipartisan compromise and remain far apart on how to pay for the massive spending.

The Republican offer would increase spending by $91 billion on roads and bridges, $48 billion on water resources and $25 billion on airports, according to a one-page summary released by the GOP negotiators.

It also would provide for one-time increases in broadband investments, at $65 billion, and $22 billion on rail.

Republicans have rejected Biden's proposed corporate tax increase to pay for new investments, and instead want to shift unspent COVID-19 relief dollars to help cover the costs.

'It's a serious effort to try to reach a bipartisan agreement,' said Sen. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia, the lead GOP negotiator.

Last week the Biden administration lowered Biden's $2.3 trillion opening bid to $1.7 trillion. But the GOP insists this is still too pricey.

In a memo to the White House, Republicans including Senators Capito, Barrasso, Blunt, Crapo, Toomey and Wicker said: 'We recognize that your most recent offer leaves us far apart and, coupled with your Memorial Day deadline, leaves little time to close the gap.

The White House released a statement Thursday saying they have received the proposal, but feel there is still more work to be done before a deal is reached  specifically on so-called 'human' infrastructure and how the plan will be funded.

'We are grateful for the work of Senator Capito and her colleagues on this proposal,' White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki wrote in a statement in response to the GOP counter.

The Republican offer would increase spending by $91 billion on roads and bridges, $48 billion on water resources and $25 billion on airports, according to a one-page summary released by the GOP negotiators. It also would provide for one-time increases in broadband investments, at $65 billion, and $22 billion on rail

'Senator Capito told the President that her team would provide us with more details later today, and we look forward to getting that information,' he continued. 'At first review, we note several constructive additions to the group's previous proposals, including on roads, bridges and rail.'

Psaki said Biden will send a follow-up to the Republican infrastructure proposal after getting more details.

'We are also continuing to explore other proposals that we hope will emerge.'

The Republican senators said their offer delivers on 'core infrastructure investments' that Biden has focused on as areas of potential bipartisan agreement.

'However, proceeding with reconciliation would undermine the good work we have done, and can continue to do, in a bipartisan manner.'

But their overall approach is likely to be met with skepticism by Democrats and the White House.

With about $250 billion in new spending, their plan falls short of the more ambitious proposal outlined in the president's American Jobs Plan.

Investing in infrastructure is a top legislative priority for Biden.

Talks are at a crossroads before a Memorial Day deadline to make progress toward a bipartisan deal.

The White House also acknowledged the two sides are still quite far off in terms of a compromise.

'[W]e remain concerned that their plan still provides no substantial new funds for critical job-creating needs, such as fixing our veterans' hospitals, building modern rail systems, repairing our transit systems, removing dangerous lead pipes, and powering America's leadership in a job-creating clean energy economy, among other things,' Psaki released in a statement Thursday.

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito outlined a $928 billion infrastructure proposal Thursday, a counteroffer to President Joe Biden's more sweeping plan as the two sides struggle to negotiate a bipartisan compromise and remain far apart on how to pay for the massive spending

'Lastly, we are concerned that the proposal on how to pay for the plan remains unclear: we are worried that major cuts in COVID relief funds could imperil pending aid to small businesses, restaurants and rural hospitals using this money to get back on their feet after the crush of the pandemic,' she continued.

After announcing the counter offer, Capito joined CNBC to say that undoing Trump's 2017 tax cuts were 'completely off the table' and they didn't consider 'human infrastructure' to be 'physical infrastructure'.

'So he [Biden] understood we're not going to touch the 2017 tax cutsnow, I'm not saying he agreed with that, but he understood our position thereand that we didn't consider human infrastructure physical infrastructure

Speaking about the tax cuts she said: 'I think it's completely off the table. Look, the tax cuts of 2017 lead to a roaring economy we saw pre-pandemic. We know that.

'But also we can do this without touching those tax cuts and we can do it by repurposing COVID dollars. If we look at the states that are no longer taking enhanced unemployment, there's a resource right there for us.

'We're looking at a financing mechanism like a revolving fund for infrastructure where you would put some dollars in and get a much greater private investment. User feesthe president has taken user fees off the table even for electric or hybrid use vehicles and we disagree with that.

'So we're going to keep pushing that. I think we can do this without touching that tax bill and I think it can be fully paid for and that's the goal we're trying to go for.'

The White House is assessing whether the president can strike the contours of an agreement with Republicans or whether he will try to go it alone with Democrats if no progress is made in the coming days.

In earlier negotiations. Biden reduced his $2.3 trillion opening bid to $1.7 trillion. Capito is pictured meeting with Biden in the Oval Office on May 13

Capito told reporters at the Capitol on Thursday that she plans to meet with Biden in person next week, though an exact date has not been set.

She classified a call with the president on Thursday regarding the GOP proposal as 'very positive,' and said he didn't outright reject it.

'He didn't make any commitment as to the substance, but he wants to continue working,' Capito said. 'Teams are getting together.'

The White House did not immediately respond to the proposal, but at a news conference on Wednesday, an official had rejected the idea of repurposing already-authorized COVID-19 funding for infrastructure.

'We should also be clear that there are simply not hundreds of billions of dollars in COVID-relief funds available to repurpose,' said Deputy Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

'YOUR LATEST OFFER LEAVES US FAR APART': THE GOP'S MEMO TO BIDEN ON INFRASTRUCTURE BILL Thank you for meeting with our group on May 13th and for the subsequent meetings with members of your Cabinet and White House staff. We appreciate your willingness to find a path to address America's infrastructure needs. We recognize that your most recent offer leaves us far apart and, coupled with your Memorial Day deadline, leaves little time to close the gap. However, proceeding with reconciliation would undermine the good work we have done, and can continue to do, in a bipartisan manner. This week, the Senate took another significant step in moving forward with an infrastructure package. The Environment and Public Works Committee unanimously approved the bipartisan Surface Transportation Reauthorization Act of 2021 by a vote of 20 to 0. In addition, the Senate is currently working through a separate legislative package, the Endless Frontiers Act, which was included in your initial proposal. When we recently met with you in the Oval Office, we discussed the parameters of an infrastructure package. Specifically, you expressed a funding target of at least $1 trillion over an eight-year period and that baseline funding levels could be included in that target. As a group, we were explicit that policies unrelated to physical infrastructure do not fit in this package. This is not because we do not value these important issues. We simply believe that these policies should be addressed in separate legislation that does not dilute our shared objective of passing this package. We can address these important issues separately without weakening our commitment to building America's infrastructure. Furthermore, we made clear as a Conference we will not revisit the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that provided the fastest economic growth in years, prior to the COVID-19 crisis. This Republican Roadmap counteroffer is an eight-year infrastructure package that provides $928 billion (inclusive of baseline spending) to address the needs of various types of infrastructure. As updated, the Roadmap includes a $91 billion increase over baseline spending for roads and bridges and a $48 billion increase over baseline spending for water infrastructure during that period. It also includes a one-time increase of $25 billion for airports and $65 billion for broadband, respectively; a $22 billion increase over baseline spending for passenger and freight rail; and an additional $6 billion for water storage in the West. We propose to offset the Roadmap with a combination of repurposed funding from previous COVID relief packages, user fees, and infrastructure financing. We agree with you that raising taxes on hardworking Americans, especially as we come out of a pandemic, is not an acceptable solution. With regard to repurposing funding from previous COVID relief packages, the Department of Health and Human Services has already demonstrated the Administration's willingness to repurpose billions of dollars Congress approved for testing and supplying the strategic stockpile, to address a completely unrelated matter on our southern border. We can identify funding from these packages that is no longer needed as we emerge from the pandemic, or that is not slated to be spent for several years  if at all. As an example, billions of dollars will not be spent by those states that decided to encourage workers to return to work by not paying out unemployment insurance. We believe that we can reach a bipartisan agreement on infrastructure legislation that will move through regular order. We share your commitment to building an infrastructure system that can meet the needs of our nation. We look forward to continuing our discussions around this framework. Advertisement

Biden will announce a $6TRILLION budget on Friday and push federal spending to the highest level since the Second World War spark more fears of rapid inflation

President Joe Biden is set to unveil a massive spending proposal that includes $6 trillion in government funding for the next fiscal year  an amount that would bring federal spending up to levels not seen since World War II.

The budget would have the nation continue running deficits of more than $1 trillion, a level it already topped with the onset of the pandemic  with estimated annual deficits of $1.3 trillion amid enacted and proposed federal programs.

The spending levels would continue on an upward trajectory, hitting $8.2 trillion at the end of a decade, according to detailed top-line numbers that leaked to the New York Times.

President Joe Biden's budget will propose $6 trillion in spending for the next fiscal year

The budget is Biden's first chance to put his mark across-the government. The blueprint reflects some of the proposals he has already made  including a major infrastructure program that he first proposed at $2.3 trillion but now wants to trim to $1.7 trillion in an effort to secure GOP support in the Senate.

The big spending boost and ongoing deficits are certain to draw Republican opposition, although the deficit also rose each year Donald Trump was in office and spiked during the pandemic.

Annual deficits have been on the rise since 2015, with a big spike amid the pandemic
A police car has landed on its roof after an alleged stolen vehicle rammed into authorities before crashing into a nearby tree in Western Australia.

A 31-year-old Esperance man has been charged after colliding with a parked police vehicle on Parmango Road, Condingup on Tuesday before he struck and spat on officers following the crash, police allege.

The Toyota LandCruiser utility was allegedly stolen from Castletown at 8.30am.

A police car flipped onto roof after an allegedly stolen vehicle rammed into authorities

The allegedly stolen car was finally tracked down at 3.30pm where police tried to stop the vehicle.

'A police vehicle was positioned further along Parmango Road, ready to deploy a tyre deflation device,' police said.

WA Police allege the stolen vehicle was being driven in an erratic manner that then caused the utility to collide with the police car.

'The impact caused the police vehicle to roll onto its roof, and the stolen vehicle crossed back to the correct side of the road and crashed into a tree,' police said.

WA Police allege the stolen vehicle was being driven in an erratic manner that caused the utility to collide with the police car (pictured)

Officers rescued the man from the crash and provided emergency first aid where one officer was allegedly struck and another spat on.

The man is now facing multiple charges including assaulting a police officer, stealing a car and driving recklessly.

He was refused bail on May 26 and will appear again in Kalgoorlie Magistrates court on July 1.
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Popular holiday destinations including Jamaica, Barbados, Malta and the Canary and Balearic islands should be immediately moved onto the UK's green list, a top travel expert said today.

Paul Charles, chief executive at The PC Agency, also included Grenada, Morocco and Finland as green on his unofficial traffic light system based on current infection rates and the percentage of people who have been vaccinated.

The UK government gives a traffic light ranking to each country based on a complex raft of data, including test rates per 100,000 and the ability to do regular genomic sequencing to check for variants.

It comes as officials in the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands revealed they are hoping to make the UK's green list in the next 'traffic light' system review at the start of next month, even if mainland Spain remains on amber.

Officials have not made public the benchmark number of positive tests per 100,000 a country must not breach to be ranked green, making it difficult to compare the system with unofficial alternatives. But Mr Charles said his green list is based on 'official sources from various governments'.

Mr Charles told MailOnline: We have added the additional column showing what countries should be on the green list based at looking at the infection rates and the percentage of the population who have been vaccinated in each country. The benchmarks we have used are based on knowledge gathered from official sources both in the UK and other countries.'

He revealed 'several criteria determine a country's colour', but only two are key - the 14-day infection rate and 'ability to do regular genomic sequencing, to check for variants'.

Paul Charles, chief executive at The PC Agency, also included Grenada, Morocco and Finland as green on his unofficial traffic light system based on current infection rates and the percentage of people who have been vaccinated

Officials have not made public the benchmark number of positive tests per 100,000 a country must not breach to be ranked green, making it difficult to compare the system with unofficial alternatives. But Mr Charles said his green list is based on 'official sources from various governments'. Pictured, Malta

Mr Charles revealed 'several criteria determine a country's colour', but only two are key - the 14-day infection rate and 'ability to do regular genomic sequencing, to check for variants'. Pictured, Doctor's Cove beach in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Meanwhile, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has confirmed islands would be looked at separately when travel rules are updated on June 7.

Iago Negueruela, the Balearic Islands' tourism minister, has spent several weeks campaigning for the region to be treated separately from the Spanish mainland so British tourists can book holidays without having to quarantine on their return.

On Twitter he wrote: 'Balearic society has made a titanic effort together in the last year. Now it's time to reap the benefits of the restrictions: we will recover pre-pandemic air connectivity thanks to our health security.'

Travel hotspots of Greek, Canary and Balearic isles could be added to quarantine-free list Some of the most popular holiday islands may be added to the quarantine-free 'green' list  even if their mainland is not, say ministers. It raises the prospect of summer travel to the Greek, Canary and Balearic islands as the next tranche of green list countries are announced next month, even if Spain and Greece remain amber. In response to an MP's question about using the traffic-light system to reopen international travel, aviation minister Robert Courts said: 'The Government will take an island approach for border measures where possible. 'Changes to the traffic-light country system will be reviewed and implemented every three weeks, unless concerning evidence means we need to act faster to protect public health.' The move could also see other islands in the Caribbean and Mediterranean opened up to holidaymakers separate from their mainland. The green list will be reviewed next week with a formal announcement possibly on Thursday, with the changes coming into effect on June 7. British Airways boss Sean Doyle said an 'islands policy' was crucial for getting tourism back up and running and unlocking holidays for millions of Britons. But it came as Austria joined Germany yesterday and banned British tourists over fears about the Indian Covid variant. Britain joins Brazil, India and South Africa on Austria's list of 'virus variant states'. Only Austrian citizens or people with residency rights will be allowed to enter the country from Britain. Direct flights from the UK will be halted from June 1. Nearly a million Britons visit Austria every year but leisure breaks to the country, popular with skiers, will be off limits this summer if the ban continues. Advertisement

The islands' 14-day cumulative coronavirus rate is currently 37,67 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, lower than Portugal's, and some 40 people with Covid are in hospital in the islands, 18 per cent less than a week ago.

A Department for Transport spokesperson said: 'Country classification on the departments traffic light system is guided by the evidence and analysis of a range of key factors, including rates of infection, the prevalence of variants of concern, and the countrys access to reliable scientific data and genomic sequencing.'

It comes as France becomes the latest country to ban British tourists from travelling there due to the spread of the Indian variant.

Holidays and other non-essential trips to France will be banned for Britons from Monday, it was announced yesterday, while those who are allowed to travel face mandatory self-isolation for seven days and will have to provide a mandatory negative PCR or lateral flow test taken no more than 48 hours before departure.

However, the French government seemed to row back on the threat of police checks today, with a government spokesman telling Le Parisien: 'For the moment, given the low incidence of Covid in Great Britain, the home control system will not be applied to them.'

Visitors from the 15 countries already on the quarantine list, such as Brazil, India and Turkey, can be fined up to 1,500 for failing to self-isolate.

The new rules for France will come in place at midnight on Sunday, as the country joins Austria and Germany in tightening rules on British visitors in response to the spread of the Indian variant, which is now responsible for most new cases in the UK, according to leading epidemiologist Professor Neil Ferguson.

Today Paul Charles suggested the French move would only be temporary.

He told MailOnline: 'This is hopefully only a very short term measure from France until it becomes clearly how the Indian variant is behaving in the UK. So I don't expect it to last too long, and it should be removed later in June.

'Countries in Europe are beginning to worry about the extent of the variant and as the UK has such advanced testing capability it needs to publish its data as soon as possible in order to reassure other countries.

'But I don't expect this to last more than a month so I don't expect this to impact the summer season. I think we'll be in a different place by the middle of June.'

It came as new data suggested Britain's coronavirus outbreak may not be spiralling out of control, with the number of people falling ill with symptoms of the disease falling by up to 10 per cent over the last week, according to a symptom-tracking app.

Academics at King's College London and health-tech firm ZOE estimate that 2,550 Britons  and 1,919 people in England  were becoming ill every day on May 23. For comparison, figures a week before stood at 2,750 and 2,132, respectively.

Professor Tim Spector, the epidemiologist behind the Covid app, admitted that the Indian variant was becoming dominant in the UK. But he said national figures 'remain unaffected', despite numerous measures saying that the outbreak is starting to get bigger with the quick growth of the B.1.617.2 strain.

Portugal is the only major tourist destination on Britain's 'green list', meaning people can go without the need to quarantine

Covid-19 cases in a selection of the 'amber list' European countries where Britons don't have to quarantine upon arrival

It came as Carolina Darias, Spain's Health Minister, today defended the decision to put the UK on the country's safe list and exempt people from Britain from providing proof of jabs or negative Covid tests.

Speaking after a meeting with regional health chiefs, Mrs Darias said: 'We will keep tabs on the situation, but the conditions to open up to tourism are there.

Holiday islands may get the green light: Travel hotspots of Greek, Canary and Balearic isles could be added to quarantine-free list Some of the most popular holiday islands may be added to the quarantine-free 'green' list  even if their mainland is not, say ministers. It raises the prospect of summer travel to the Greek, Canary and Balearic islands as the next tranche of green list countries are announced next month, even if Spain and Greece remain amber. In response to an MP's question about using the traffic-light system to reopen international travel, aviation minister Robert Courts said: 'The Government will take an island approach for border measures where possible. It raises the prospect of summer travel to the Greek, Canary and Balearic islands as the next tranche of green list countries are announced next month, even if Spain and Greece remain amber (pictured: the Greek island of Santorini) 'Changes to the traffic-light country system will be reviewed and implemented every three weeks, unless concerning evidence means we need to act faster to protect public health.' The move could also see other islands in the Caribbean and Mediterranean opened up to holidaymakers separate from their mainland. The green list will be reviewed next week with a formal announcement possibly on Thursday, with the changes coming into effect on June 7. British Airways boss Sean Doyle said an 'islands policy' was crucial for getting tourism back up and running and unlocking holidays for millions of Britons. The green list will be reviewed next week with a formal announcement possibly on Thursday, with the changes coming into effect on June 7 (file photo of passengers in the arrivals hall at Heathrow Airport in August last year) British Airways boss Sean Doyle (pictured above) said an 'islands policy' was crucial for getting tourism back up and running and unlocking holidays for millions of Britons But it came as Austria joined Germany yesterday and banned British tourists over fears about the Indian Covid variant. Britain joins Brazil, India and South Africa on Austria's list of 'virus variant states'. Only Austrian citizens or people with residency rights will be allowed to enter the country from Britain. Direct flights from the UK will be halted from June 1. Nearly a million Britons visit Austria every year but leisure breaks to the country, popular with skiers, will be off limits this summer if the ban continues. Advertisement

'That's especially true for British tourism, with the UK being one of the countries with most influence in our tourism market which is a fundamental part of our economy.'

She also highlighted the UK's low accumulated coronavirus rate, as the number of hospitalised COVID-19 patients fell last week to its lowest level since September.

Coronavirus infections in the UK have been rising again, but the overall incidence is still low in a country with one of the world's fastest vaccine rollouts.

Clusters of the B.1.617 Indian variant have grown quickly, however, to 3,424 as of last Thursday, up by 2,111 from similar numbers the previous week. The Indian variant has been reported in at least 17 countries.

The French government's announcement will be a blow to parts of the beleaguered tourism industry, which is desperate for a return to normal business ahead of the peak summer season.

'It's reasonable in terms of saving the French summer but will be very punishing for those regions which depend on British holidaymakers,' said Ge Kusters, owner of Le Paradis campsite in the Dordogne area and president of the regional campsite union.

'More financial support is going to have to follow.'

British tourists had been due to be allowed to visit France without restrictions from June 9 if they carried a certificate of vaccination against COVID-19 or a negative COVID-19 PCR test.

Some 13 million Britons visited France every year before the coronavirus crisis began in early 2020, more than any other nationality, according to official data.

French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian had raised the possibility of tougher restrictions for British tourists on Sunday.

He suggested the UK could be put in a health category of its own, somewhere in between the strictest measures that France is imposing on visitors from India and 15 other countries, and more relaxed requirements being readied for visitors from the EU and some other countries.

Without giving specifics, Mr Le Drian said there was potential for 'health measures that are a bit stronger' but Paris is watching the progress of the Indian variant before making final decisions.

'We hope that the variant can be controlled in a country which experienced real failures during the pandemic,' he said.

'However, the arrival of the Indian variant and the increase of cases of Indian variant in the United Kingdom pose a problem and so we are vigilant about this (and) in contact with the British authorities,' he added.

'It won't be the red treatment if we have to do it. It will be an intermediate treatment,' the minister said.

'But it is not excluded - this springs to mind because of British tourists - that we have health measures that are a bit stronger.'

The tougher restrictions come after Germany declared Britain and Northern Ireland a virus variant region last week and required anyone entering the country from the UK to quarantine for two weeks on arrival.

Austria also yesterday banned British tourists over fears about the Indian Covid variant.

Rory Boland, Which? Travel Editor, said: 'France's decision to quarantine UK travellers in response to the Indian variant is a stark reminder of the unpredictability of international travel this year.

'People would have already been confused about what travel is safe and permitted due to the country's status on the UK's amber list, and this announcement will cause even more stress for those with an upcoming booking.

'Many will be surprised to find that changing entry requirements and mandatory quarantine at your destination won't always trigger a refund, especially for flights.

'This demonstrates just how important it is for anyone thinking about booking a trip in the next few months to do so with a holiday company that has the most flexible booking policies available, so they are protected against significant disruption to travel plans that can often occur at short notice.'

Some 13 million Britons had visited France every year before the coronavirus crisis began in early 2020.

Other European nations have since welcomed British holidaymakers back to their beaches with open arms.

Travellers will soon be able to visit 20 destinations on the Continent without having to quarantine upon arrival - despite 18 of those welcoming sun-seekers still being on the 'amber list.'

Spain has lifted its restrictions on travellers from the UK, with Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez saying: 'Spain will be delighted, very delighted to welcome all British tourists'.

The popular holiday hotspot joins Italy, Greece and Cyprus in permitting Britons to arrive without quarantine.

However, if tourists do decide to travel to these 'amber list' destinations, they will need to self-isolate for 10 days and get tested twice upon their return to the UK.

People wait in a line to receive vaccinations in Barcelona today after Spain lifted the travel restriction from the UK

Tourists and beachgoers enjoy the sea, sand and sun along the Mare e Sol beach in Coti-Chiavari last summer

Spain defends welcoming British tourists, saying they are vital to the economy Spain today defended its decision to open up to British tourists despite France and Germany unveiling tougher rules. Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez allowed UK holidaymakers to return for the first time this year on Monday with no Covid test or vaccine requirements. The surprise move came after Germany said it was barring Britons from entering after public health chiefs designated the UK as a virus variant area of concern. France subsequently followed suit by saying Britons heading to the country would have to quarantine for seven days and provide a negative coronavirus test to prevent the spread of the Indian variant. Portugal, the first major European holiday destination to be put on the UK's green travel list, is demanding British tourists show proof of a negative Covid test. The number of UK holidaymakers jetting to Spain has been low so far because of its amber status which means sun seekers have to quarantine when they return. But Carolina Darias, Spain's Health Minister, defended the decision to put the UK on the country's safe list and exempt people from Britain from providing proof of jabs or negative Covid tests. On June 7 Spain will allow tourists from around the world to enter the country, providing they can prove they have had all their Covid vaccinations. Speaking after a meeting with regional health chiefs, Mrs Darias said: 'We will keep tabs on the situation, but the conditions to open up to tourism are there. 'That's especially true for British tourism, with the UK being one of the countries with most influence in our tourism market which is a fundamental part of our economy.' She also highlighted the UK's low accumulated coronavirus rate as one of the reasons why it was on Spain's safe list. The Balearic Islands and Canary Islands are hoping to make the UK's green list in the next 'traffic light' system review at the start of next month, even if mainland Spain remains on amber. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has confirmed islands would be looked at separately when travel rules are updated on June 7. Iago Negueruela, the Balearic Islands' tourism minister, has spent several weeks campaigning for the region to be treated separately from the Spanish mainland so British tourists can book holidays without having to quarantine on their return. The islands' 14-day cumulative coronavirus rate is currently 37,67 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, lower than Portugal's. Just over 40 people with Covid are in hospital in the islands, 18 per cent less than a week ago. Advertisement

British tourists had been due to be allowed to visit France without restrictions from June 9 if they carried a certificate of vaccination against Covid-19 or a negative PCR test.

Visitors from the UK are currently required to present a negative PCR test carried out less than 72 hours before departure and self-isolate for seven days.

They are then asked to take another PCR test which must be negative for them to end the quarantine period.

It is unclear how the tightened restrictions announced today will change these measures.

France is broadly following the EU's template for welcoming tourists, which are in the process of being updated. A 'traffic light system' should be fleshed out soon for what the restrictions for each category will be.

The latest blow for British holidaymakers comes as travel bosses today slammed Downing Street's 'utterly confusing' advice on foreign holidays and demanded the 'green list' is quickly expanded.

The CEOs of easyJet, British Airways, Ryanair, Jet2, Tui UK and others have written to the Prime Minister to share their frustration at ministers' recent comments telling Britons travel is 'dangerous' and urging them to 'stay in this country' rather than holiday abroad.

They asked Boris Johnson to 'bank the gains from the huge success of the vaccination programme and expand the green list' to include the US, the Caribbean and other European hotspots, saying Britons are now being left behind their neighbours.

The signatories, which also included the CEO of Virgin Atlantic and Loganair, added they 'fully understand' concerns about the Indian variant of Covid-19, but say comments made in the past week have 'moved the goalposts' and 'undermined the very purpose of the risk-based traffic light system.'

The letter says: 'The Government now appears not to want a meaningful restart to international travel this summer, and it is impossible for any business or consumers to plan under this scenario, such that we are genuinely fearful that some UK businesses may fail.

'Failures can be avoided. The science shows clearly the green list can be expanded safely now, including to many European countries, the US and the Caribbean.

'Many currently amber countries have significant levels of vaccinations, rapidly decreasing case numbers and, according to test and trace data, often considerably less than one per cent of arrivals testing positive with no identified variants of concern entering the country. Under an evidence-based system based on risk, these should be green.'

It comes as it emerged today that some of the most popular holiday islands for eager British holidaymakers may soon be added to the quarantine-free 'green' list  even if their mainland is not.

This raises the prospect of summer travel to the Greek, Canary and Balearic islands as the next tranche of green list countries are announced next month, even if Spain and Greece remain amber.

Speaking in the letter today, travel leaders warned the UK risks 'falling behind the rest of the world, with long-term consequences for our connectivity and prospects of a Global Britain' if it remains grounded while the rest of Europe opens up.

They added that Britain has 'never been in a better position' to manage the risk from Covid-19 due to its highly successful vaccine roll-out which today opened to those aged 30 and above.

Fuengirola beach near Malaga is pictured on Monday as UK holidaymakers set their sights on a trip to Spain

Three women talk to each other while sunbathing on the beach at Fuengirola near Malaga in Spain on Monday

Cases are only clearly rising in THREE of England's eight Indian variant hotspots, data shows By Joe Davies for MailOnline Covid cases are only clearly rising in two of England's Indian variant hotspots, official statistics have shown amid warnings that people aged under 21 may be more likely to catch the mutant strain. Blackburn with Darwen, Kirklees and Bedford are the only areas of the eight identified by ministers as being to have seen an obvious rise in infections. Burnley has even seen a fall in the average number of cases, based on the most recent data on the Government's coronavirus dashboard. Outbreaks appear flat in the other four areas: Bolton, Leicester, Hounslow and North Tyneside. And the number of beds occupied by Covid patients has remained in single area for all but one of the areas  Bolton, which saw a fall from 44 to 41 beds on Tuesday. Just one person was in hospital with Covid in North Tyneside at the most recent date. But hospitalisation data is harder to untangle because some NHS trusts care for larger areas, with multiple hospitals under their jurisdiction. For example, East Lancashire Trust includes hospitals in Burnley and Blackburn, providing the same data for both. Experts say hospitalisations in Bolton are currently lower than they would have been predicted based on case numbers a fortnight ago, even though rates have crept up over the past month. Professor Christina Pagel, a member of Independent SAGE, hailed the most recent case numbers as 'good news', despite previously saying ministers may need to delay the last stage of lockdown easing on May 17 due to the rapid spread of the Indian variant. She tweeted: 'So some good news: cases in some of the new variant hotspots are now coming down  especially in Bolton.' Advertisement

The letter added: 'Along with the vaccination programme, our testing system allows us to assess inbound risk from medium and higher risk countries. With this safety net, we urge you to stick to the established framework, end confusion for travellers and allow our businesses to plan.

'Airlines can deliver a meaningful restart safely but a second lost summer for the sector, due to a limited expansion of the green list compared to our neighbours, would cause lasting damage to the UK's aviation, travel and tourism industries.

'In that case there would be an urgent need for a dedicated aviation economic support package to safeguard many thousands of jobs otherwise under threat and protect the essential infrastructure that will be critical to the UK's recovery and future prosperity.'

Speaking earlier, the CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, Steve Heapy, insisted confusion over foreign holidays was worsened by the fact Foreign Office advice was not always aligned with the traffic light system.

He told the Guardian: To have two separate lists is utterly confusing ... we have to make decisions based on conflicting information.'

EasyJet boss Johan Lundgren said: 'Customers want to travel this summer  they value their holidays, want to reunite with loved ones after many months of separation and develop their businesses so I urge the Government to increase the Green list and let the UK take off once again.'

Andrew Flintham, Managing Director for TUI UK and Ireland, said holidays to destinations including Spain, Greece, some Caribbean islands and the US should now be possible due to the worldwide vaccination effort.

He added: 'We're already seeing other European markets open up to travel and welcome back customers, so now is the time for the UK to do the same. We're a nation of travellers, so it's time to stop limiting our ability to travel where it's safe to do so.

'Whilst we've offered outstanding flexibility for customers this summer, what customers really want is to be able to take the holiday they've booked and look forward to.'

Charlie Cornish, CEO of Manchester Airports Group, owner of Stansted, Manchester and East Midlands airports, said: 'The Government is holding back international travel despite clear evidence that more countries should be on the green list.

'The UK's traffic light system ignores the benefits of our world-leading vaccination programme, which was meant to give Britain a head start and let people visit family and go on holiday this summer. Instead, the Government is actively telling people not to travel to amber list countries despite creating a system that makes it safe for them to do so.

'At the same time, we are requiring millions of people with immunity from Covid-19 to pay for PCR tests to gather data on variants that other governments reliably collect already.

Some of the most popular holiday islands may be added to the quarantine-free 'green' list  even if their mainland is not, say ministers. Pictured: Santorini, Greece

The latest blow for British holidaymakers comes as travel bosses today slammed Downing Street's 'utterly confusing' advice on foreign holidays and demanded the 'green list' is quickly expanded. Pictured: Mallorca, Spain

Mr Cornish added: 'With so much at stake, the Government must work transparently and collaboratively with industry to create a simple, fair and sustainable system that will truly get Britain flying again.'

Tim Alderslade, CEO of Airlines UK, the industry body representing UK-registered carriers, said: 'The UK will rapidly fall behind the rest of Europe unless it looks again at its overly cautious approach to international travel.

'There is no reason why our green list can't be expanded to include the US and the most popular European hotspots, or for the UK not to follow the EU's lead in exempting vaccinated travellers from restrictions.

'It is time to allow UK citizens to take advantage of the fantastic success of the vaccine rollout but at the moment our competitors are reacting faster to the improving health situation and will reap the rewards this summer.'

Mark Tanzer, CEO of Abta  The Travel Association, said: 'It is illogical for the Government to not follow its own traffic light system  it makes no sense for Ministers to say people shouldn't travel to amber countries when the Government's own system allows people to do so in a risk-managed way.

'Travel agents and tour operators, and their customers, need a clear and simple system to follow without contradictions otherwise our sector's recovery will be unnecessarily slow and drawn out.'
A 15-year-old girl was raped in the back seat of a car after getting into a stranger's car when he offered to give her a lift home from a city centre.

The teenager was dropped off at her home following the attack in Newcastle-upon-Tyne in the early hours of Sunday before the man drove away.

The girl told Northumbria Police officers that she had been travelling into Monument Metro station in the city as she tried to make her way home.

She spoke to a number of people and walked with them towards the Haymarket as she tried to find her way back to where she lived in Cowgate.

The 15-year-old girl had been travelling into Monument Metro station in Newcastle (file image)

The teenager told officers she was approached by a man in a dark car near the Haymarket who offered her a lift at some point between 1.15am and 2am.

Police said she accepted his offer and was driven in the car towards Cowgate, before the driver parked on a street in Blakelaw and raped her in the back seat.

The man then dropped her off at her home and left the area in his car, with the victim then reporting the incident to the police control room at 2am.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said: 'An investigation to identify the suspect is still ongoing and our specialist officers are supporting the teenager and her family.

The driver parked on a street in the Blakelaw area of Newcastle (file picture) and raped the girl

'But now we are asking for your help and need anyone who may have spoken to the 15-year-old girl in the early hours of Sunday morning to get in touch.

'In particular we are keen to trace two women with Irish accents who walked with the teenager towards Haymarket in a bid to try and help her return home.

'We also would be keen to hear from anyone who may have seen a lone teenage girl get into a black or dark vehicle near to the Haymarket between 1.15am and 2am on Sunday morning.

'We do already have a highly visible policing presence in the city centre since the re-opening of our night time economy and if anyone has any concerns please do come and speak to us.'

Anyone with information that may help has been asked to report it on the Northumbria Police website or by calling 101 and quoting log 153 23/05/21
India has dismissed a 'baseless' study that claimed its true Covid-19 death toll was 1.6million compared to the official figure of 310,000.

Vinod Paul, head of India's coronavirus task force, said the analysis by the New York Times was 'not backed by any evidence and is based on distorted estimates.'

The paper said a 'conservative estimate' would put the death toll at 600,000 - double the official figure - while it was likely there had been closer to 1.6 million deaths.

The study included a 'worst case scenario' of 4.2 million deaths in the country of 1.4 billion, claiming that India had 'grossly understated' the scale of its crisis.

But Narendra Modi's Covid chief said that while infections may be higher than the number being reported from testing, the deaths were not being under-counted.

'Our [fatality] number is 0.05 per cent of those infected. They've said 0.3 per cent. Why? On what basis have you decided that it's 0.3 per cent of that large infection universe? There is no basis at all. Five people get together, make phone calls to each other and then throw this number. That's how this report has been done,' Paul told NDTV.

The true coronavirus death toll in India could be as many as 1.6 million compared to the official 310,000 fatalities reported, experts fear. Last week the virus-ravaged Asian nation recorded around 4,500 deaths in one day, the biggest daily toll of any country during the pandemic

Ambulance staff carry the body of a Covid-19 victim at a crematorium in Guwahati on May 26, 2021

Indian covid sufferers are now contracting deadly 'black fungus' infection with spike causing a shortage of the drugs to treat it A growing number of current and recovered Covid-19 patients in India are contracting a deadly and rare fungal infection, doctors said on Monday. Mucormycosis, dubbed 'black fungus' by medics, is usually most aggressive in patients whose immune systems are weakened by other infections. 'The cases of mucormycosis infection in Covid-19 patients post-recovery is nearly four to five times than those reported before the pandemic,' Ahmedabad-based infectious diseases specialist Atul Patel, a member of the state's Covid-19 taskforce, told AFP. In the western state of Maharashtra, home to India's financial hub Mumbai, up to 300 cases have been detected, said Khusrav Bajan, a consultant at Mumbai's P.D. Hinduja National Hospital and a member of the state's Covid-19 taskforce. Some 300 cases have been reported so far in four cities in Gujarat, including its largest Ahmedabad, according to data from state-run hospitals. The western state ordered government hospitals to set up separate treatment wards for patients infected with 'black fungus' amid the rise in cases. 'Mucormycosis - if uncared for - may turn fatal,' the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR), the scientific agency leading the government's response, said in a treatment chart released on Twitter.o used steroids during their virus treatment, and those who had prolonged stays in hospital ICUs, the ICMR added. Reporting by AFP Advertisement

'There may be some late reporting of deaths but there's no intent of any state or the Centre. If I apply the same three times yardstick to New York, then there would be 50,000 deaths. But they say it's 16,000. So this is distorted,' he added.

The US has recorded about 590,000 deaths, which is suspected of being an under-count in the population of around 330 million.

Official figures in India put the toll at 310,000 in a population which is more than four times the size of that in the US.

In consulting with more than a dozen experts, the Times found it difficult to get a clear picture even of the total number of infections in India due to poor record-keeping and a lack of widespread testing.

Kayoko Shioda, an epidemiologist at Emory University, said the undercount could be even more pronounced because hospitals are being overwhelmed.

This could mean that many deaths with coronavirus are taking place at home, particularly in rural areas - and are therefore omitted from the count.

Ms Shioda also suggested labs which could confirm the cause of death are equally swamped as the virus causes havoc across the subcontinent.

Other researchers have found that there are few coronavirus tests available, and that families are unwilling to say their loves ones have died with the virus.

The system for keeping death records in India is also unreliable, with just four out of five deaths not medically investigated pre-pandemic.

Dr Ramanan Laxminarayan, director of the Center for Disease Dynamics, Economics and Policy, told the New York Times: 'As with most countries, total infections and deaths are undercounted in India. The best way to arrive at the most likely scenario would be based on triangulation of data from different sources, which would indicate roughly 500 to 600 million infections.'

The paper reached its estimates by using data from three nation-wide antibody tests, called serosurveys. In each survey, about 30,000 people is examined and researchers then extrapolate that data point to arrive at a national estimate.

Its conservative scenario assumed a true infection count 15 times higher than the official number of recorded cases.

It also assumed an infection fatality rate of 0.15 percent - a number on the low end of the estimates it collected from experts.

The latest national seroprevalence study ended in January, before the current surge, and estimated roughly 26 infections per reported case.

In this scenario, the estimated number of deaths in India is more than five times the official reported count - at around 1.6 million versus 310,000.

The paper's worst-case scenario used a slightly higher estimate of true infections per known case, to account for the current wave.

The infection fatality rate is also higher, at 0.6 percent, to take into account the collapse of India's health system during the surge.

In the Asian nation, hospital beds, oxygen and other medical necessities have been scarce - meaning a greater share of those contracting the virus may be dying, driving the infection fatality rate up.

A report by the World Health Organisation last week estimated that the global death toll may be two or three times higher than reported.

Policemen stand next to the bodies buried in shallow graves on the banks of Ganges river in Prayagraj, India, May 15, 2021

Relatives carry a dead body past shallow graves covered with saffron clothes of suspected Covid-19 victims near a cremation ground on the banks of the Ganges River in Shringverpur village, May 15, 2021

It comes after the Indian government was forced to reassure its citizens that 5G has not caused the second wave of coronavirus following a spate of conspiracy theories circulating on social media.

Officials pointed out that there are no 5G networks in India as the country only approved 5G trials last week and they won't start for months.

The government described the conspiracy theories as 'baseless and false' and urged the public not to be 'misguided' by the rumours.

India's Department of Telecommunication said in a statement: 'Several misleading messages are being circulated on various social media platforms claiming that the second wave of coronavirus has been caused by the testing of the 5G mobile towers.

'These messages are false and absolutely not correct... the general public is hereby informed that there is no link between 5G technology and the spread of Covid-19 and they are urged not to be misguided by the false information and rumours spread in this matter.'

A prominent message circulating on social media states that the radiation from cell phone towers 'mixes with the air and makes it poisonous and that's why people are facing difficulty in breathing and are dying', reports Coda Story .
A Philadelphia steakhouse has sparked outrage after putting up a sign telling diners they have to spend a minimum of $100 if they want to dine at the upscale eatery.

The Steak 48 restaurant on Broad St and Spruce, which is part of a family-run chain, was slammed for imposing a food and drink minimum, which doesn't even include tax or a tip.

The eatery's sign, which was shared to Twitter by a Philadelphia podcast, stated that the minimum spend had been put in place to ensure guests enjoy the 'total experience of food, service and atmosphere'.

Meanwhile, social media users also hit out at the strict dress code enforced by the upscale chain, which also has locations in Chicago, Houston and Charlotte.

A Steak 48 restaurant (pictured) on Broad St. and Spruce, which is part of a family-run chain, has been slammed for imposing a $100 food and drink minimum

The eatery's sign (above), which was shared to Twitter, said the minimum spend had been put in place to ensure guests enjoy the 'total experience of food, service and atmosphere'

The stylish location is known for being a popular spot for people to visit to take Instagram pictures, with some Twitter users claiming the restaurant were trying to deter such behavior.

The sign and a statement on Steak 48's website read: 'There is a $100 per person food & beverage minimum for each person at your table in order to ensure that each guest enjoys the total experience of food, service, and atmosphere.

'This does not include tax or tip. We look forward to welcoming you.'

Steak 48's menu boasts a variety of upscale main dishes, including a 22oz ribeye steak for $68, seabass costing $53 and a 12oz steak fillet with an egg for $65.

To get a side dish alongside their main course at the upscale restaurant, customers must spend anything from $9 for whipped potatoes to $23 for double baked truffle potatoes.

But customers will no longer be able to go and just have a specialty cocktails, which people often enjoy while taking snaps for their Instagram, as they only cost around $18, while their sweet treats cost between $11 and $18.

Hoards of Twitter users were left outraged at the new spending restrictions, with memes mocking the restaurant's policy quickly circulating around social media.

One person wrote: 'Steak 48 trash. Only thing I want is drinks and dessert they can keep everything else lol'

The stylish location is known for being a popular spot for people to visit to take Instagram pictures, with some Twitter users claiming the restaurant were trying to deter such behavior

Twitter users were left outraged at the spending restrictions, with memes mocking the restaurant's policy quickly circulating around social media (pictured)

Another fumed: 'Steak 48 said no more broke ppl can eat in their restaurant unless you spend a hundred minimum'

One person hit out at those who go to the eatery to take pictures, tweeting: 'All of you who were going to Steak 48 to take pics in front of the sign and leave, how y'all feeling?'

A third said: 'F**k Steak 48. Not even worth the 100. I had better at a mom and pop place.'

And a fourth penned: 'Alright so the minimum cost was already wild but this dress code too?? Steak 48 is tripping I'm late forgive me y'all.'

While another fumed: 'They said no brokies #Steak48 no more appetizer dates and step photos'

But other customers claimed they didn't understand how people were spending less than $100 in Steak 48, saying they had no gripes with the minimum spend.

One person wrote: 'I don't understand how ppl was going in steak 48 and spending less than $100like you order 2 things and you spending $200 at least'

A second insisted: 'Yes. Also, if you go to Steak 48, you typically spend much more than $100 per person. If you are taking up a table and only ordering $50 in food, you are hurting their bottom line. Don't like it? Don't eat there.'

After the $100 minimum spend shocked Twitter users, people also began criticizing the upscale Philadelphia diner's strict dress code, which prohibits a long list of clothes.

After the $100 minimum spend shocked Twitter users, people also began criticizing the upscale Philadelphia diner's strict dress code, which prohibits a long list of clothes

The 'business casual dress code' prohibits items of clothing including workout attire, men's tank tops and sleeveless shirts, frayed or torn clothing and hats for men.

Customers are also not allowed into the restaurant if they are wearing 'excessively revealing' clothing or have their 'undergarments exposed', while clothing emitting 'offensive odors', including cologne and tobacco, are also banned.

One Twitter user quipped: 'Hmm. I could go to Steak 48 or I could go to any number of upscale chain steakhouses in Chicago, Houston, Philadelphia or Charlotte that don't have a $100 per person minimum and a weird complicated dress code. This is a hard decision.'

While another argued: 'I think a better strategy for Steak 48 would have been to implement a "dressy" dress code with an inclusive list of clothing items rather than an exclusive list.'

And a third penned: 'I don't mind the $100 minimum spending limit at steak 48 but baby, they tripping with the new dress code.'

A notice on Steak 48's website confirmed the minimum spend and strict dress code also applied to the Chicago eatery, while it appeared the Charlotte chain had the dress code but not the $100 minimum.

A spokesperson for Steak 48 said: 'We continue to uphold the same standard business casual dress code policy for dinner service across all our fine-dining properties to ensure the best experience for all our guests.

'Like many restaurants in our industry, we've had to make some updates to our policies, like the $100 per person minimum in effort to support our staff and restaurant's operations, and provide the ability to be successful as a steakhouse designed for the full sit-down experience.

'Our standard 18 percent minimum gratuity also helps ensure our staff is supported, especially as our community continues to reemerge after a challenging year.'
Richard Cottier (pictured), 41, was fatally shot on a petrol station forecourt after telling police he had taken a drug overdose and was claiming to have a firearm

A police officer feared for his life as he fatally shot a father of three who was threatening people with a gun on a petrol station forecourt, an inquest has heard.

Richard Cottier, 41, was shot dead at a petrol station in Romford, east London, in the early hours after telling police he had taken a drug overdose, making threats and claiming to have a firearm.

An inquest into his death at Barking Town Hall previously heard from Mr Cottier's long-term partner that his actions had been a 'cry for help'.

Today, jurors heard from one of the officers who shot Mr Cottier, who said he 'honestly believed' he was going to be killed.

The officer cannot be identified for legal reasons and was referred to as PW47.

Giving evidence, PW47 said he had been aware that a 'firearms incident' had been declared just before 4.30am, and that Mr Cottier had been declared as 'EMD' (emotionally or mentally distressed).

Although he and two other officers - known as F79 and KH13 - were initially told to go to Mr Cottier's house, they were redirected and told to proceed 'with urgency' to the Esso petrol station on Collier Row Road.

PW47 said he saw a man he identified as Mr Cottier 'violently slamming' a gun against a vehicle on the petrol station forecourt and then 'brandishing it at a member of the public'.

'Doing nothing was not an option... from what I saw I was very concerned,' he said.

Asked by coroner Nadia Persaud if he thought the weapon was 'capable of lethal force', PW47 replied: 'Absolutely.'

'I got out of the passenger seat (and)... shouted as loud a challenge as possible of 'armed police',' he said.

'We pushed forward as a team to get Mr Cottier away from the public.

Officer PW47 said he saw a man he identified as Mr Cottier 'violently slamming' a gun against a vehicle on the petrol station forecourt and then 'brandishing it at a member of the public'. Pictured: Scene following the shooting

'He walked... towards myself and F79. I continually shouted to him to drop the gun, or words to that effect, but unfortunately Mr Cottier didn't take action to drop the weapon.

'He pointed the weapon directly at myself and it was at this point I discharged the round.

'Very shortly after there was a second shot... from F79.'

The inquest was shown bodyworn footage of the incident, recorded by PW47.

Stephen Simblet QC, representing Mr Cottier's family, asked PW47 if he had considered using his taser.

The officer replied: 'I was head-on facing another firearm so it was not something I would consider at the time.

'It was a dynamic, quick, developing situation.

'At the time I honestly believed I was going to be killed.'

The inquest also heard from the officer known as KH13, who said he too believed there was a 'real and imminent threat to life'.

'It felt like time slowed down,' he said.

Asked whether there was any point at which he doubted the gun was real, PW47 replied: 'Absolutely not.'

The police watchdog said that a non-police firearm was recovered from the scene following the incident and that a ballistics expert had confirmed the weapon was a modified air rifle.

PW47 added that immediately after the shots were fired, he and F79 had tried to save Mr Cottier from the 'catastrophic wound' on his neck.

'It was a case of saving his life. We needed to do everything we could to achieve that if we could,' he said.

PW47 left the Met in 2018 but had already applied for the transfer prior to the incident.

Jurors heard it had been the first time he had ever discharged his firearm.

The inquest continues.
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Veteran White House butler William 'Buddy' Carter is leaving his job after 47 years service which saw him begin his career working for Ronald Reagan, and end it under Joe Biden.

The longtime staffer is said to be be leaving his role with a small party with colleagues, CNN said Thursday. President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will also host a small lunch for Carter and his family before he departs.

Carter - who started out at the presidential guest accommodation Blair House 47 years ago - moved to serving the White House 32 years ago under Ronald Reagan.

There, he was one of six butlers at the White House Executive Residence, and attended to presidents' day-to-day needs.

Since then Carter has worked with presidents Reagan, George H. W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump and now Joe Biden.

During his time working with both Republicans and Democrats he is said to have helped with State Dinners and greeted high profiled guests.

He said in 1997: 'Very few people are selected to work here, and I' m one of the few. It' s a wonderful feeling.'

Veteran White House butler William 'Buddy' Carter, pictured in the early 2000s, is leaving his job after 47 years service and working with seven presidents from Ronald Reagan to present day, according to reports. The longtime staffer is said to be be leaving his role with a small party with colleagues, CNN said Thursday

Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton. William 'Buddy' Carter worked as a butler for all three

Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump and Joe Biden. William 'Buddy' Carter worked for each of them too

His close relationships with first families from both ends of the political spectrum led to an invite to both Chelsea Clinton and Jenna Bush's weddings in 2010 and 2008 respectively.

He also was one of two staff to join former First Lady Melania Trump on her government plane to former first lady Barbara Bush's funeral in 2018.

White House spokesperson Stephanie Grisham said at the time: 'Mrs. Trump brought George Hainey, former head Maitre D'at the White House, and Buddy Carter, a current butler, to the funeral with her as invited guests.

'She knew they were very close to the Bush family and wanted them to be able to pay their respects.'

Carter, left, has worked with presidents Ronald Reagan, George H. W. Bush, Bill Clinton, right, George W Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump and now Joe Biden

And he was even serenaded by Donald Trump, who is said to have held up the annual Congressional Ball to sing Happy Birthday to him.

He was the first staff member Bill Clinton would see each morning, and would bring the former president his newspaper and coffee.

Carter was also renowned for his knack for helping organize functions. He knew exactly how the building's sight lines worked, and helped come up with optimum seating arrangements for state dinners.

Carter was also renowned for being able to use plants and other decorations in a way that afforded star guests a dramatic entrance into a room.

A description of his role with Clinton said: 'No two days are alike for the White House butlers, and no two visitors have the same needs and interests.

'Imagine handing a cup of tea to a famous celebrity in the afternoon and then serving dinner to a foreign leader in the evening! Yet Mr. Carter' s grace and style enable him to perform his varied duties with ease.

'On the occasion of a State Dinner, when the First Family hosts a visiting dignitary, Mr. Carter' s day begins early and ends late. He and the other butlers begin setting up tables in the State Dining Room first thing in the morning.'

One co-worker told CNN: 'The history that Buddy has witnessed through the years is astonishing. His eye for knowing how the White House works is unparalleled -- no one knows it better than Buddy.'

Carter is said to be leaving his role to spend more time with his loved ones.

A colleague said: 'Buddy has always been caring and loyal. And that's what makes him so special. He'll be missed.'
A U.S. Border Patrol agent has been charged with smuggling migrants across the United States-Mexico international borderline, U.S. Customs and Border Protection said Wednesday.

The border officer was arrested last Friday after a grand jury indicted him for 'transporting undocumented individuals for private gain.'

CBP said the Border Patrol agent was assigned to the Laredo Sector and had been on duty since 2008.

The agent, whose name was withheld, has been indefinitely suspended.

A Laredo Sector Border Patrol stands by the side of a steel border fence along the southwestern international line where officers rescued 24 individuals being smuggled in a truck near Freer, Texas, on October 12, 2020

Details regarding how long the Border Patrol agent was ferrying undocumented individuals were not released.

'(CBP) stresses honor and integrity in every aspect of our mission and expects officers and agents to adhere to the oath they take to uphold and enforced the laws of this country,' the agency said in a statement.

CBP did not state what the agent's maximum jail term will be if he is found guilty.

DailyMail.com reached out to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas for comment.

Agents with the U.S. Border Patrol Laredo Sector process a group of more than 40 migrants who were found inside a tractor-trailer Wednesday morning during a checkpoint on Interstate 35 in Laredo, Texas

The criminal charges were filed just one day after a former CBP agent in Laredo pleaded guilty to assisting an undocumented immigrant from Mexico enter the United States and employed her as her nanny.

Rhonda Lee Walker, 40, admitted in a signed plea agreement that while she was a Customs and Border Protection officer on January 2, she used another officer's computer login information to help the woman enter the United States through the Laredo Port of Entry.

In exchange for the plea, federal prosecutors said felony counts of illegally transporting the woman into the U.S. and lying to investigators will be dismissed.

Walker is slated to be sentenced August 9 and could face up to 10 years in prison.
Police have today swooped on a man in London after BBC offices were told they would be bombed.

Officers moved after the threat was sent to staff at the corporation via social media platform Facebook on March 24.

It warned that the BBC Offices in London Road, Nottingham, would be targeted with explosive devices.

Officers are now questioning and holding the man, 36, on suspicion of malicious communications.

The offices in Nottingham belonging to the BBC that were threatened with the bombing

Detective Inspector Ruby Burrow, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: 'We are taking this report extremely seriously and I am pleased that we have now made an arrest in connection with our extensive investigation.

'As this is a live ongoing investigation I would urge people not to speculate on this case, however I would like to take this opportunity to provide reassurance that there are no wider concerns for public safety.'

The BBC headquarters in Nottingham were built back in 1994.

Nottinghamshire Police announced the arrest had been made in London this morning

They were constructed especially after the broadcaster established the region for work purposes.

Both East Midlands Today have a studio there as do BBC Radio Nottingham.

East Midlands today is currently hosted by Anne Davies, Dominic Heale, Colin Hazelden and Maurice Flynn .
New York City's prestigious Julliard School forced students to take part in a 'Slavery Saturday' workshop where they pretended to be slaves while listening to the sounds of chains, whips and the sale of a black woman for nearly 30 minutes.

Marion Grey, a current student at the drama school who is black, described the 'traumatizing' experience in an Instagram video late last month.

In the video she included a segment of the 'auditory imaginative experience' that was played during the workshop, which she dubbed 'Slavery Saturday'.

The workshop took place during orientation in September 2020, when classes were taught over Zoom. Several faculty and staff were on Zoom during the presentation, Grey said.

After her video drew attention, Julliard officials apologized for the workshop, calling it 'ill-conceived' and a 'mistake'.

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Marion Grey, a current Julliard School student, described what she called a 'Slavery Saturday' workshop in an Instagram video late last month

The Julliard School has a long list of famous celebs who are alumni

There was a trigger warning and darkness with just audio to open the 27.53-minute video.

In the segment Gray showed, which was less than two minutes, there was no visual; just the sounds of whips and chains before a black woman was sold into slavery.

A gavel bangs and bangs before a voice says: 'Gentlemen, gentlemen. Calling your attention to the first item we have for sale.

'She's a fine black pearl in dead. She's in fine condition. She's young. She's supple. She's strong. She can wash, weave, plow and slow. A good investment, gentlemen. And she'll raise you a fine littler of picaninnies.'

The sale was followed by a song where the N-word was used dozens of time, before the clip cut off and Grey returned to her monologue.

'If this had been an auditory experience of some other simulated traumatic event; had it been a 30-minute auditory experience of the Holocaust or a 30-minute auditory experience or rape, I do not believe it would've been allowed to to continue for 27 minutes,' Grey said with tears streaking down her face.

Grey said told American Theatre that she and her black classmates had their cameras off but were texting each other in distress.

She told American Theatre that one colleague Facetimed her, Grey said: 'And there was not a dry spot on her face. She was so utterly broken, I couldnt even look at her. I said: "Ill call you back."'

Meanwhile the screens Zoom squares showed white students and faculty, and some students of color, going through the steps of the exercise earnestly and without protest, American Theatre reported.

When, after it was over, the white participants said how moved they were by the experience, according to American Theatre, but Grey couldn't hold in her feelings.

'I was like: "There are wounds here, and you dont get to just explore someones history and culture with themthat is earned, you dont just get that,"' she told American Theatre, paraphrasing what she said that day.

For seven months, Grey didn't discuss the issue because she said, 'It's terrifying because I don't know what they will try to do to me.'

'I do not feel supported or respected or valued,' Grey said. 'I don't have any belief anymore in this school, in this institution or in its administrators that black lives matter enough. Black lives matter don't matter here.'

Two days after Grey posted her video, Julliard President Damian Woetzel apologized and said the workshop was 'ill-conceived' on April 23.

He said it was intended 'to celebrate and learn about the origins of the African American musical tradition,' but said the section that Grey referenced was 'extremely distressing and problematic.'

'We deeply regret that the materials used in the auditory exercise were not screened in advance, and that once the exercise was occurring it was not stopped.'

The guest lecturer, Michael McElroy, a respected black performer and teacher, offered the program - dubbed by the school 'Roots to Rep' - in other places with no apparent backlash, American Theatre reported.

Michael McElroy (left), a respected performer and teacher, was the program's guest speaker. Damien Woetzel, the schools president, issued an apology

'It is our responsibility as artists to tackle difficult topics in our work but we must ensure that we do so in a manner that respects and protects the members of our community,' Woetzel said in his apology statement.

Playwright Lee Edward Colston II, who was accepted into the school's prestigious drama division in 2012, told CBS News' Michelle Miller that the school has had issues with race and diversity.

Despite nearly a quarter of the student population being black, there is almost no black staff.

'If you have, you know, a predominately white faculty, that means there are cultural blind spots, right?' Colston told CBS News in an interview over the weekend.

Colston believes Juilliard's issues are partially rooted in the school's curriculum, which he says is driven by what one teacher called 'the classics'.

'There is a multitude of ways, you know, to explore classics, right? And who gets to decide what a classic is? You know, like, what's a classic for you and what's a classic for me may not be the same thing,' he told CBS.

Julliard is considered the gold standard among the fine arts schools, and has alum such as Anthony Mackie, Viola Davis, Kevin Spacey, Yo Yo Ma, among many others. Robin Williams was a student at the school for a couple years but left before graduating.
A Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen today admitted having equipment on a mysterious air base being built on a volcanic island off Yemen.

But the coalition did not name who was building the facility across the Mayun Island in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait in a statement released on the state-run Saudi Press Agency.

The statement said the equipment, which it did not identify, helps the coalition back Yemen's internationally recognized government against the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels who now hold the country's capital, Sanaa.

It said the United Arab Emirates, which remains a coalition member after largely withdrawing from the war in 2019, was 'providing air support in defense' of the Yemeni city of Marib, the target of an ongoing Houthi offensive. The statement called any claim of Emirati troops on Mayun 'baseless and unfounded.'

A Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen today admitted having equipment on a mysterious air base being built on a volcanic island off Yemen. Pictured: The mysterious air base on Mayun Island

The runway on Mayun Island allows whoever controls it to project power into the strait and easily launch airstrikes into mainland Yemen, convulsed by a yearslong bloody war. It also provides a base for any operations into the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden and nearby East Africa.

'This does seem to be a longer-term strategic aim to establish a relatively permanent presence,' said Jeremy Binnie, the Mideast editor at the open-source intelligence company Janes who has followed construction on Mayun for years. It's 'possibly not just about the Yemen war and you've got to see the shipping situation as fairly key there.'

The island sits on one of the world's crucial maritime chokepoints for both energy shipents and commercial cargo.

Satellite images from Planet Labs Inc. obtained by The Associated Press showed dump trucks and graders building a 1.85 kilometer (6,070-foot) runway on the island on April 11. By May 18, that work appeared complete, with three hangars constructed on a tarmac just south of the runway.

A mysterious air base is being built on a volcanic island off Yemen that sits in one of the world's crucial maritime chokepoints for both energy shipments and commercial cargo

The runway on Mayun Island allows whoever controls it to project power into the strait and easily launch airstrikes into mainland Yemen, convulsed by a yearslong bloody war. It also provides a base for any operations into the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden and nearby East Africa

A runway of that length can accommodate attack, surveillance and transport aircraft. An earlier effort begun toward the end of 2016 and later abandoned had workers try to build an even-larger runway over 3 kilometers (9,800 feet) long, which would allow for the heaviest bombers.

Shipping data links the Emirates to an earlier, abandoned effort to build a runway there.

Military officials with Yemen's internationally recognized government, which the Saudi-led coalition has backed since 2015, say the UAE is building the runway.

The officials, speaking to the AP on condition of anonymity as they didn't have authorization to brief journalists, say Emirati ships transported military weapons, equipment and troops to Mayun Island in recent weeks.

This is despite the UAE announcing in 2019 it was withdrawing its troops from a Saudi-led military campaign battling Yemen's Houthi rebels. The AP reports did not mention any Emirati troop presence on the island.

The Saudi statement comes after rising anger from Yemeni officials over the air base being built on Mayun. The UAE has not responded to repeated requests for comment.

The military officials said recent tension between the UAE and Yemeni President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi came in part from an Emirati demand for his government to sign a 20-year lease agreement for Mayun. Emirati officials have not acknowledged any disagreement.

The initial, failed construction project came after Emirati and allied forces retook the island from Iranian-backed Houthi militants in 2015. By late 2016, satellite images showed construction underway there.

The apparent decision by the Emiratis to resume building the air base comes after the UAE dismantled parts of a military base it ran in the East African nation of Eritrea as a staging ground for its Yemen campaign. Pictured: Mayon Island off the cast of Yemen

Tugboats associated with Dubai-based Echo Cargo & Shipping LLC and landing craft and carriers from Abu Dhabi-based Bin Nawi Marine Services LLC helped bring equipment to the island in that first attempt, according to tracking signals recorded by data firm Refinitiv. Satellite photos at the time show they offloaded the gear and vehicles at a temporary beachside port.

Echo Cargo & Shipping declined to comment, while Bin Nawi Marine Services did not respond to a request for comment. Recent shipping data shows no recorded vessels around Mayun, suggesting whoever provided the sealift for the latest construction turned off their boats' Automatic Identification System tracking devices to avoid being identified.

Construction initially stopped in 2017, likely when engineers realized they couldnt dig through a portion of the volcanic islands craggy features to incorporate the site of the island's old runway. The building restarted in earnest on the new runway site around Feb. 22, satellite photos show, several weeks after President Joe Biden announced he would end U.S. support for the Saudi-led offensive against the Houthis.

The apparent decision by the Emiratis to resume building the air base comes after the UAE dismantled parts of a military base it ran in the East African nation of Eritrea as a staging ground for its Yemen campaign.

While the Horn of Africa 'has become a dangerous place' for the Emiratis due to competitors and local war risks, Mayun has a small population and offers a valuable site for monitoring the Red Sea, said Eleonora Ardemagni, an analyst at the Italian Institute for International Political Studies. The region has seen a rise in attacks and incidents.

'The Emiratis have been shifting from a power-projection foreign policy to a power-protection foreign policy,' Ardemagni said. It increases 'their capacity to monitor what happens and to prevent possible threats by non-state actors close to Iran.'

The expeditionary Quds Force of Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard was said to run a similar operation on a cargo ship long stationed nearby off Yemen before being apparently targeted by an Israeli attack.

Mayun, also known as Perim Island, sits some 3.5 kilometers (2 miles) off the southwestern edge of Yemen. World powers have recognized the island's strategic location for hundreds of years, especially with the opening of the Suez Canal linking the Mediterranean and Red Seas.

The British kept the island up until their departure from Yemen in 1967. The Soviet Union, allied with South Yemen's Marxist government, upgraded Mayun's naval facilities but used them 'only infrequently,' according a 1981 CIA analysis. That's likely due to needing to bring water and supplies onto the island. That will affect the new air base as well as Mayun has no modern port, said Binnie, the Janes analyst.

The base still may interest American forces, however. U.S. troops operated from Yemen's al-Anad Air Base running a campaign of drone strikes targeting al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula until the Houthi advance forced them to withdraw in 2015. The Defense Department later acknowledged on-the-ground American troops supported the Saudi-led coalition around Mukalla in 2016. Special forces raids and drones also have targeted the country.

The U.S. military's Central Command did not respond to a request for comment. The CIA declined to comment.
Republicans stepped up their attacks on the government's most senior infectious diseases expert Thursday saying Dr. Anthony Fauci should be fired after defending $600,000 in funding for a Chinese laboratory under scrutiny for its role in the emergence of COVID-19.

Critics say he has offered the wrong advice throughout the pandemic and was too quick to dismiss the idea that the novel coronavirus could have escaped from a laboratory.

A day earlier, President Joe Biden ordered the intelligence community to step up investigations into COVID-19's origins.

Rep. Guy Reschenthaler, a member of the House China task force, said it was time for Fauci to go.

'He's either grossly incompetent or he's been lying to the American people the entire time,' he told Fox News.

Dr. Anthony Fauci's changing advice during the pandemic has made him a favorite target of Republicans. Rep. Guy Reschenthaler, a member of the House China task force, said: 'He's either grossly incompetent or he's been lying to the American people the entire time'

Reschenthaler attacked Fauci for his shifting stance. 'Early on back in January, he said America has nothing to worry about regarding this virus,' he said. 'He then criticized President Trump for the travel ban from China and then he said that decision by President Trump actually saved lives'

Fauci's advice has changed during the past year as scientists developed their understanding of COVID-19.

At first they thought it would follow the same pattern as other coronaviruses, such as Sars or Mers, with outbreaks subsiding over time.

Fauci, like other infectious diseases experts, played down the initial threat. And he echoed the advice of the World Health Organization and other scientists by saying masks were not effective in preventing its spread and arguing against travel bans.

Critics such as Reschenthaler claim Fauci lied.

'Early on back in January, he said America has nothing to worry about regarding this virus,' he said.

'He then criticized President Trump for the travel ban from China and then he said that decision by President Trump actually saved lives.

'He blatantly lied to Congress about masks and the American people saying they dont help and then he said, oh no, I was lying so we could hoard PPE.

'He's been wrong this entire time.'

Three members of staff Wuhan Institute of Virology were reported to have sought medical help for COVID-like symptoms in November 2019, adding to growing speculation that the virus escaped from the facility triggered a pandemic

Contractor who led Wuhan probe identifies official who 'downplayed links to China and ignored his persistent warnings' The man who led the State Department's task force probing the origins of coronavirus revealed his colleagues 'deliberately' downplayed links of the virus' inception to China's Wuhan lab. David Asher, a contractor who led the investigation, told Fox News that people 'were deliberately playing down possible links to China's biological weapons program.' He also blamed former Assistant Secretary of State Chris Ford for dismissing the department's probe into the origins of COVID-19, leading to President Joe Biden shutting it down. 'I had procedural concerns and substantive concerns,' Ford told Fox, claiming Asher's team had been told to keep it a secret from him and the intelligence community. He also accused them of bypassing State Department and intelligence biological experts. Despite shutting down the probe, Ford said: 'There are all sorts of reasons to worry about possible lab origins, and it's critical to get to the bottom of this.' He said he was concerned that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo might look like a crank if it emerged the State Department was pushing the lab origin theory based on what he said was an unreliable statistical analysis - 'junk science,' he called it - suggesting COVID-19 could not have emerged naturally. Advertisement

Criticism increased this week with a new report that three staff members at the Wuhan Institute of Virology sought medical care after developing COVID-like symptoms in November 2019.

It has led to fresh scrutiny of the origins of a pandemic that has killed more than three million people.

On Wednesday, Fauci said the most likely hypothesis was that the disease emerged naturally from an animal host.

But he said no-one could know for sure.

"And since there's a lot of concern, a lot of speculation and since no one absolutely knows that, I believe we do need the kind of investigation where there's open transparency and all the information that's available, to be made available, to scrutinize," he said duing a Senate hearing.

His opponents see it as another example of flip flopping, accusing him of too easily dismissing the idea of a laboratory leak.

'When Tom Cotton and myself were saying that this virus probably originated in a lab in Wuhan - the lab where they were doing gain-of-function research on zoonotic bat-borne diseases - he was the one saying that it was a conspiracy theory,' said Reschenthaler.

'He was the one pushing the real conspiracy theory that this virus originated in nature.'

A fringe theory suggests that experimenters in China were using American taxpayers' money to collect coronaviruses from bats and manipulating them in laboratories.

The U.S. National Institutes of Health, where Fauci is a senior figure, had given the Wuhan lab a $600,000 grant to do studies.

During his Senate evidence, Fauci said the money was not give for 'gain of function' work.

'We have seen the results of the research that were done and that were published. And the studies are public, and on public databases now,' he said

'None of that was gain of function.'

Scientists say COVID-19's genetic sequence shows no sign of artificial manipulation.

President Biden said the inability of CDC inspectors to access key sites in China hampered early investigations as he asked the intelligence community to redouble efforts in investigating how COVID-19 emerged

But in recent weeks a growing number have said they may have been too quick to write off the idea that the virus could have escaped from a laboratory by accident.

President Biden said intelligence agencies were divided on the two possible scenarios: laboratory leak or natural transfer in the wild.

'I have now asked the intelligence community to redouble their efforts to collect and analyze information that could bring us closer to a definitive conclusion, and to report back to me in 90 days,' he said.

'As part of that report, I have asked for areas of further inquiry that may be required, including specific questions for China.'

On Thursday he promised to release the report.

'Yes, unless there's something I'm unaware of,' he told reporters at Joint Base Andrews before departing for a trip to Cleveland, Ohio on Thursday.
China has blasted Joe Biden's calls to determine the origins of coronavirus and dismissed theories about its Wuhan laboratory as a 'conspiracy.'

The President on Wednesday ordered US intelligence officials to 'redouble' their efforts in probing the origins of the Covid-19 pandemic, including any leads regarding the lab.

The Chinese Embassy in Washington accused unnamed political forces of being fixated on a blame game while ignoring the urgent need to combat the pandemic.

'Smear campaign and blame shifting are making a comeback, and the conspiracy theory of "lab leak" is resurfacing,' the embassy said in a statement.

It also called for a 'comprehensive study of all early cases of Covid-19 found worldwide.'

Beijing's spokesman Zhao Lijian, who has previously claimed the virus originated in the US, said Biden's order showed Washington 'does not care about facts and truth, nor is it interested in serious scientific origin tracing.'

Chinese President Xi Jinping makes an address during the Global Health Summit on May 21

The Biden administration, after months of minimising the lab theory as a fringe point of view, yesterday did an about-face. It was swiftly followed by Facebook, which said it would no longer penalise users who dared to make the suggestion which was previously considered 'misinformation

Zhao cited the World Health Organisation report from March which said it was 'extremely unlikely' that the virus originated from a Wuhan lab.

The report is widely considered to be a white wash and was criticised by the British and US governments which said that China had withheld data from the experts.

The WHO rapporteurs were chaperoned around Wuhan by the Communist apparatchik who provided information which had been approved by Beijing.

The Biden administration, after months of minimising the lab theory as a fringe point of view, yesterday did an about-face.

It was swiftly followed by Facebook, which said it would no longer penalise users who dared to suggest that Covid-19 had leaked from a lab which was previously considered 'harmful misinformation.'

The liberal media establishment in the US, including CNN and MSNBC, have also completely backtracked after claiming that Donald Trump was making outlandish claims when he put forward the theory last year.

Biden asked his intelligence agencies to report back in 90 days.

He directed US national laboratories to assist with the investigation and the intelligence community to prepare a list of specific queries for the Chinese government.

He called on China to co-operate with international probes into the origins of the pandemic.

Biden in a statement said the majority of the intelligence community had 'coalesced' around those two scenarios but 'do not believe there is sufficient information to assess one to be more likely than the other.'

He revealed that two agencies lean toward the animal link and 'one leans more toward' the lab theory, 'each with low or moderate confidence.'

In April of last year, Facebook had announced that it was imposing limits on 'harmful misinformation about COVID-19', and in February this year this was extended to the lab theory spoken about widely by Donald Trump

On May 1, 2020, CNN reported that Trump had 'contradicted' the intel community by claiming to have seen evidence the virus came from a lab.

CNN this week seemed to give credence to the 'misinformation'

'The United States will also keep working with like-minded partners around the world to press China to participate in a full, transparent, evidence-based international investigation and to provide access to all relevant data and evidence,' said Biden.

His statement came after weeks of the administration endeavouring to avoid public discussion of the lab leak theory and privately suggesting it was far-fetched.

As for the origin of pandemic, Fauci, a White House coronavirus adviser, said Wednesday that he and most others in the scientific community 'believe that the most likely scenario is that this was a natural occurrence, but no one knows that 100% for sure.'

'And since there's a lot of concern, a lot of speculation and since no one absolutely knows that, I believe we do need the kind of investigation where there's open transparency and all the information that's available, to be made available, to scrutinise,' Fauci said at a Senate hearing.

Pictured: The Huanan seafood market on February 9, 2021 in Wuhan, China, long believed to have been the site where the pandemic began

The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday that workers at China's Wuhan Institute of Virology were hospitalized with an illness that resembled COVID-19  weeks before the coronavirus would begin ravaging China and the world. Researchers at the lab are seen in this February 2017 file photo

Pictured: The Wuhan lab where some have claimed Covid-19 originated from, which was disputed by WHO researchers on February 9

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Tuesday that the White House supports a new World Health Organization investigation in China, but she added that an effective probe 'would require China finally stepping up and allowing access needed to determine the origins.'

Biden still held out the possibility that a firm conclusion may never be reached, given the Chinese government's refusal to fully cooperate with international investigations.

'The failure to get our inspectors on the ground in those early months will always hamper any investigation into the origin of COVID-19,' he said.

Privately, administration officials say the end result, if ever known, won't change anything, but note China's stonewalling is now on display for the world to see.
A father has slammed the 'cruel' Covid rules that meant he found out his 19-month-old son had leukaemia in a hospital car park.

Carson Josephson is 19 months old and needs regular treatment at Noah's Ark Children's Hospital in Cardiff.

But his father Jason is unable to join him and his mother Carrie for the treatments because of Covid rules.

The Cardiff and Vale health board has said it follows Welsh government guidance and makes allowances 'as appropriate', according to the BBC.

Baby Carson was diagnosed with the blood cancer when lockdown first began last year and even underwent a bone marrow transplant last October.

He is still required to go to the children's hospital for treatments but only one parent is allowed to join him.

Carson Josephson (pictured with parents Jason and Carrie) is 19 months old and needs regular treatment at Noah's Ark Children's Hospital in Cardiff

Mr Josephson said: 'It's absolutely cruel that two parents can't be there to support their children.'

The couple added that they don't understand how people are allowed to go to restaurants in groups of six and eat indoors when they are not both able to accompany their cancer-stricken child in hospital.

Current guidance in Wales states that only one parent or guardian is allowed at a child's bedside but health boards are given 'discretion' to change these rules if they believe the benefits of the visit outweigh Covid risks.

Mr Josephson said he felt like he was 'in a prison cell' when he was told the news about his son while sitting in the hospital car park.

The Cardiff and Vale health board has said it follows Welsh government guidance and makes allowances 'as appropriate'

Baby Carson was diagnosed with the blood cancer when lockdown first began last year and even underwent a bone marrow transplant last October

He told the BBC: 'I just wanted to get into the hospital and put my arms around both of them but I was informed that I was not allowed. I couldn't think of a worse pain.'

And mother Carrie says that she finds it draining having to attend all of Carson's appointments on her own and then having to retell Mr Josephson what various consultants have told her.

She told the publication: 'No parent should have to deal with this by themselves without their partner there. To have restaurants and pubs open, it's selfish, it's really selfish. We feel like we're on our own.'
A Chicago suburb has launched an independent investigation into the local police department in connection with the January 2020 death of a black man, who was seen on video being slapped by an officer and having his nose pinched shut during a drug arrest.

Eric Lurry, 37, died in the hospital after being picked up by the police on January 29, 2020, in Joliet, which is located about 30 miles southwest of downtown Chicago.

The Will County Coroner later determined that Lurry died of an 'accidental overdose' after swallowing fatal quantities of heroin, fentanyl and cocaine, and said that arresting police officers were not responsible for his death.

Nearly 16 months after Lurry's death, Joliet Mayor Bob O'Dekirk and City Manager Jim Capparelli have retained a private attorney to conduct an independent investigation into the Joliet Police Department's handling of the case.

The City of Joliet, Illinois, has hired a private attorney to conduct an independent review of the local police department's handling of Eric Lurry's case. The screenshot above shows the man during his arrest in January 2020

Dashboard camera shows one police officer pinching Lurry's nose for nearly 2 minutes, while another sticks a metal baton in his mouth

'I think it's important we get a disinterested third party to do a top-to-bottom review of the investigation, to know how we conducted our internal investigations and how we can improve our policies and procedures,' Capparelli told Joliet Patch.

Lurry, a married father-of-three, died in the hospital after his arrest. A coroner determined that he died of an 'accidental overdose' after swallowing fatal quantities of heroin, fentanyl and cocaine

The move comes nearly a year after police whistleblower Sgt Javier Esqueda released dashboard camera video from the night of Lurry's arrest to WBBM-TV, which showed Sgt Doug May slapping the man in the face as he sat handcuffed in the back of a patrol vehicle.

'Wake up, b****,' May is heard telling Lurry.

In the video, May appears to pinch Lurry's nose shut for 1 minute, 38 seconds while telling him, 'Open your mouth.' For an unknown reason, most of that portion of the video has no sound.

Another officer then inserts a baton into Lurry's mouth to try to pull an object he perceived to be choking the man from his throat.

Moments later, Lurry appears to lose consciousness and collapses onto the backseat as officers attempt to shake him awake.

Esqueda said Lurry may have been chewing on drugs earlier and the cops wanted to remove the narcotics from his mouth.

Joliet police Sgt Doug May (left) in January 2021 was suspended seven days for his conduct during Lurry's arrest a year prior. May slapped Lurry in the face and called him a 'b****'

Lurry, a father-of-three, was subsequently hospitalized and died hours later.

County Coroner Patrick O'Neil later concluded that Lurry had enough drugs in his system to kill 10 people.

Police whistleblower Sgt Javier Esqueda, who released the dashcam video last July, was later stripped of his badge and criminally charged

Esqueda said last year he blew the whistle because he believes his department engaged in a cover-up.

'On seeing that video, it was so disturbing, I cried,' he told CBS2. 'Every day, having to live with that was a hard thing, knowing that this administration was probably going to do nothing about it.'

Esqueda said he believed the officers had cut off Lurry's air supply in an attempt to get him to cough up a bag of drugs, but noted that such a maneuver was banned a few years ago.

Asked if it was a violation of police procedure, Esqueda said: 'Yes, I absolutely think so.

'I can't think of anywhere where I was taught CPR or in the academy where you slap a man, call him a bad name, cut off his airway, go for his throat.'

He also said he believed officers intentionally turned off the sound in the video, saying there was 'no way' it would have cut out on its own.

Esqueda, a 28-veteran on the force who described himself as a 'good, honest cop,' was subsequently stripped of his badge and placed on administrative leave.

In October 2020, Esqueda was arrested and charged with two counts of official misconduct, and he was formally indicted on those charges in December.

Meanwhile, Joliet Patch reported that In January 2021, Sgt May was handed a seven-day suspension for his conduct during Lurry's arrest a year prior.

Esqueda said he believes his department engaged in a cover-up

Outgoing Joliet Police Chief Al Roechner wrote in a memo to May: 'you used disrespectful language, slapped and made other contact with an arrestee. The complaint has been investigated and on the basis of available evidence has been found to be sustained in part and not sustained in part.'

May also has been removed from the police department's drug unit and reassigned to a supervisory position at the police station.

May was among four officers who were named defendants in a federal civil rights lawsuit that was filed last August on behalf of Lurry's widow, Nicole Lurry.

The complaint alleged that May suffocated Lurry to death, and that the Joliet police later covered it up by tampering with, concealing, or destroying evidence.
The number of people offered asylum, resettlement and other types of protection in the UK fell to its lowest level in seven years during the pandemic, new figures show.

A total of 8,640 people were granted protection, down 58 per cent from 20,331 in the previous year.

It is the lowest number for any 12-month period since the year to September 2014.

The drop reflects the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, which led to fewer decisions made on asylum applications as well as pause in resettlement, according to the Home Office, which published the figures.

The number of people offered asylum, resettlement and other types of protection in the UK fell to its lowest level in seven years during the pandemic. Pictured: It is believed many of those applying for asylum have continued to arrive by small boats across the English Channel

A sharp fall in air passengers is also likely to have reduced the number of people travelling to the UK for asylum using this route.

It is believed many of those applying for asylum have also continued to arrive by small boats across the English Channel.

All resettlement activity in the UK was paused between March and November 2020, leading to a drop of 93 per cent in the number of resettlement grants from 4,968 in 2019/20 to just 353 in 2020/21.

Grants following an asylum application had increased in every 12-month period from the year to June 2018 (8,616) to the year to March 2020 (15,363).

There were 26,903 asylum applications (relating to 32,411 people) in the UK in 2020/21, down nearly a quarter (24 per cent) on the previous year

But since then the number has dropped steadily, with 8,287 applications granted in the year to March 2021: a year-on-year fall of 46 per cent.

There were 26,903 asylum applications (relating to 32,411 people) in the UK in 2020/21, down nearly a quarter (24 per cent) on the previous year.

This included 2,044 applications from unaccompanied asylum-seeking children, down 42 per cent year-on-year.

Responding to the figures, Mike Adamson, chief executive at British Red Cross, said: 'Despite fewer asylum applications being made over the last year, over 50,000 women, men and children have now been waiting for longer than six months for a decision, an increase of 71 per cent over the last year.

A Home Office spokesperson said: 'We have an extremely proud track record - since 2015, we have resettled almost 25,000 men, women and children seeking refuge from cruel circumstances across the world - more than any other European country'

'These delays leave people in unsafe accommodation, with little or no financial support and unable to move on with their lives for months and even years - adding to the traumas they've already been through and to the costs of the asylum system.

'Unfortunately, dealing with these delays is largely absent from the Government's plan for immigration. It's a missed opportunity for much needed progress.'

A Home Office spokesperson said: 'Over the past year, we've seen a global health emergency with countries including the UK going into lockdown and introducing travel restrictions. For this reason, resettlement activity was paused between April 2020 and November 2020.

'We have an extremely proud track record - since 2015, we have resettled almost 25,000 men, women and children seeking refuge from cruel circumstances across the world - more than any other European country.

'As part of our new plan for immigration, we are strengthening our support for those entering through safe and legal routes, such as granting automatic indefinite leave to remain on arrival and helping refugees to integrate and thrive in the UK.'
A heartbreaking 999 call was played in court which captured the moments an innocent student struggled for life after a botched drive-by shooting, following a feud between two tyre-business owners.

Aya Hachem was shot in the chest from a passing car as she shopped for groceries near her home in Blackburn, Lancashire, on May 17 last year.

Preston Crown Court previously heard she was 'in the wrong place at the wrong time' when she was inadvertently caught up in a feud between the owners of two tyre companies.

Aya Hachem was shot in the chest from a passing car as she shopped for groceries near her home in Blackburn

Preston Crown Court previously heard she was 'in the wrong place at the wrong time'

The prosecution alleges the shooting was the culmination of a long-running dispute between Feroz Suleman, the owner of RI Tyres and Pachah Khan, the owner of Quickshine Tyres.

Suleman is said to have hired hitman Zamir Raja to shoot Mr Khan - only for a bullet to hit law student Aya instead.

Mr Khan, who'd gone to her aid, made a desperate 999 call that was played to the court.

He tells the call operator there's been a shooting and 'a lady is injured really bad.'

The operator responds: 'Someone's shooting?'

Mr Khan says: 'Yeah, shooting a firearm down the main road.'

Other people use Mr Khan's phone to tell the call operator they can see Aya's gunshot wound and she's 'not responding'.

Some are able to give a description of the gunman's car to the call operator, who then asks: 'Is the female responsive, is she breathing?'

A man replies: 'No, she's not responsive she'd got a very weak pulse.'

Mr Khan later tells the call operator how he'd seen two men in a Toyota Avensis before the gunman took aim at him.

'I was saying, 'What the f*** is that? They're pointing a gun at me.

'They came around and started shooting at me.'

CCTV screened to the jury showed the horrifying moment Aya fell to the pavement after being shot.

Nicholas Johnson QC, prosecuting, told the court how paramedics battled to save her and she was taken to hospital but she'd suffered an 'irreversible' cardiac arrest.

Footage shows Aya walking along King Street near Quickshine Tyres at 3pm as a silver Toyota Avensis drives past.

A gunman - allegedly Raja - fired two shots from the back of the car with the second hitting Aya.

Opening the case last week, Mr Johnson said the feud between Suleman and Mr Khan dated back to January 2019 when Quickshine Tyres was just a car washing business.

But it started selling tyres, putting it into 'direct competition' with RI Tyres, and there were a series of petty disagreements which came to the notice of police.

The 'bad blood' between the men, the court heard, led to a plan being hatched to kill Mr Khan and/or someone else at Quickshine.

Nicholas Johnson QC, prosecuting, told the court how paramedics battled to save her and she was taken to hospital but she'd suffered an 'irreversible' cardiac arrest . (Pictured, forensics examine the scene)

The prosecution alleges all eight defendants had a role in Aya's murder.

Mr Johnson told the court Suleman was the 'organiser of the whole thing' while Abubakr Satia sourced the Avensis, which was driven by Anthony Ennis.

Both Uthman Satia and his girlfriend Judy Chapman acted as getaway drivers for Raja and Ennis, it's alleged, while Kashif Manzoor ensured the Avensis was running properly.

It's alleged Ayaz Hussain acted as a link between Mr Suleman and gunman Mr Raja.

Suleman, 40, Manzoor, 26, Hussain, 35, Satia, 32, all from Blackburn, Raja, 33, of Stretford, Ennis, 31, of Partington, Satia, 29, and Ms Chapman, 26, both of Great Harwood, all deny murder.

All eight deny the attempted murder of Mr Khan.

The trial, estimated to last up to 10 weeks, continues.
Rishi Sunak defended his role in a lobbying row involving former prime minister David Cameron and his work for a now failed bank today, insisting the former Tory leader got no special treatment.

The Chancellor was grilled by MPs today over the work done after he received text messages from Mr Cameron while he was working for Greensill Capital, which later went bust.

He told the Treasury Committee he looked at Mr Cameron's proposals to involve Greensill in a scheme to help finance small businesses during the pandemic.

But he insisted that he put in no 'disproportionate effort' on evaluating the scheme - which was eventually dismissed by ministers and senior officials.

Mr Sunak was grilled by committee chairman Mel Strike, who asked: You have got here a former prime minister, a former Conservative prime minister who gets in touch directly with the current Conservative Chancellor of the Exchequer, pitches him, pitches other Treasury ministers, goers direct to the very top in the Civil Service as well, at one point in early April an absolute barrage of messages of messages and lobbying going on.

'Is it really creditable for us to assume that had no impact over and above had the approach just come from somebody else unknown to anybody without a public profile or a political track record of that David Cameron had. Is that really a credible position to be taking?'

Mr Sunak replied that he spent the 'right amount of time' on what Mr Cameron proposed, adding: 'It was entirely reasonable and proportionate to be looking at this space and entirely right to spend time and diligence on proposals that might have helped small and medium sized companies.

'But in no way was there disproportionate effort on this particular set of proposals. It comprised a small amount of our work and crucially we didnt take it forward in the end whereas we did take forward multiple other financing schemes.'

Asked later if he would change the way he handled the approach from the former prime minister. He said no, adding: 'I stand by the decisions we took at the time.'

The Chancellor was grilled by MPs today over text messages he exchanged with Mr Cameron while he was working for Greensill Capital, which later went bust.

He told the Treasury Committee he looked at Mr Cameron's proposals to involve Greensill in a scheme to help finance small businesses during the pandemic.

According to founder Lex Greensill, the rug was finally pulled out from underneath the company when its biggest insurer, Tokio Marine, refused to renew its policies with Greensill.

Scrutiny of former prime minister David Cameron's use of his connections to Government to lobby for Greensill have been placed under close attention since the firm collapsed in March this year.

Earlier this month Mr Cameron stressed that he was unaware of any financial difficulty at Greensill until December 2020 when he was told that an attempt to raise funds has not gone as well as hoped.

According to founder Lex Greensill, the rug was finally pulled out from underneath the company when its biggest insurer, Tokio Marine, refused to renew its policies with Greensill.

Greensill provided so-called supply chain finance to businesses, which meant the finance firm would pay a company's invoice immediately after it was sent, therefore cutting out the usual delay which can restrict companies' cash flows.

Earlier this week the Treasury Committee released dozens of texts and emails Mr Cameron sent to ministers and senior officials appealing for their help in gaining access for Greensill to Covid support programmes.

They show that he fired off an array of texts and emails, some signed 'Love Dc' and suggesting meet-ups for 'elbow bumps' with key figures including the Chancellor.

The powerful cross-party committee is investigating the collapse of Greensill Capital and lobbying of the Treasury and Bank of England on its behalf.

Mr Cameron has denied breaking any lobbying rules, but admitted he should have made approaches in a more formal way.
The number of Hong Kong citizens applying for UK visas this year has dwarfed the number applying from the European Union, a report revealed Thursday.

In the first quarter of 2021, Britain received 34,000 right-to-reside visa applications from the former British colony, compared to just 5,354 total visa requests from the EU, according to the Migration Observatory at the University of Oxford.

It comes after plans were set out last year to allow British National (Overseas) (BNO) citizens and their relatives who live in Hong Kong to apply for visas to live and work in the UK.

The scheme came into force on January 31 after Beijing imposed a new national security law upon Hong Kong last year in a widely condemned crackdown on dissent.

China had previously promised to allow Hong Kong to retain its freedom of expression and independent legal system when it took the colony back in 1997.

The British government has forecast the scheme - open to those with a British National Overseas (BNO) passport, a special status created before 1997 and held by almost 3 million Hong Kong residents - could attract more than 300,000 people and their family members.

Some 300,000 people from Hong Kong could arrive in the first year after the visa becomes available in January, the estimations from Home Office officials suggest (stock picture)

Meanwhile, new post-Brexit rules have made it more difficult for Europeans to set up a new life in Britain.

The Migration Observatory confirmed the low take up of visas from the EU reflected new post-Brexit realities, including the end of freedom of movement, while also citing the effect of the Covid crisis.

'In normal times, we might have expected to see employers scrambling to work out what they need to do to recruit EU nationals after the end of free movement,' Madeleine Sumption, the Observatory's director, said.

'But the pandemic has meant that many employers do not need to use the new immigration system yet.

'So it could be some time before we get a good sense of how many EU citizens are moving to the UK under the new rules and what their impacts appear to be.'

EU citizens living in Britain prior to 2021 are able to apply for settled status under a separate scheme.
Jake Barnard and Andrew Milne convicted of murder and attempted murder

Two drug dealers burned down a family home killing a mother and her four-year-old son over a 400 debt.

Gina Ingles, 34, died shielding her son Milo from the flames after Jacob 'Jake' Barnard, 31, and his enforcer Andrew Milne, 42, poured petrol through the letterbox.

Fire investigators found Ms Ingles crouching over her deceased son, with the pair huddled under a windowsill in their burnt-out bedroom. A dog they were looking after for a friend was found dead next to them.

Ms Ingles' partner Toby Jarrett spent months in hospital after jumping from a second floor window as the family attempted to escape the fire in Eastbourne, East Sussex.

Barnard and henchman Milne were convicted of murdering the young mother and Milo and the attempted murder of Mr Jarrett by setting fire to the family home.

DNA matching Barnard was found on the lighter and DNA matching Milne was found on the petrol can both discarded at the scene.

Gina Ingles, 34, died shielding her son Milo from the flames at the family home in Eastbourne, East Sussex. Toby Jarrett spent months in hospital after jumping from a second floor window (pictured: Ms Ingles, Mr Jarrett and Milo)

Jacob 'Jake' Barnard (pictured left), 31, and henchman Andrew Milne (right), 42, were convicted of murdering the young mother and Milo and the attempted murder of Mr Jarrett by setting fire to the family home

Investigators said patterns of burning showed fire started in the hallway and spread up the staircase to the top floor and roof (pictured: forensic officers at the family home in Eastbourne)

CCTV from another house on the street showed Milne and Barnard looking back as they walked calmly away from the fatal blaze.

Firefighters took more than two hours to douse the fire.

A jury in Brighton heard Mr Jarrett woke at around 1.30am on July 10, 2018, to a room full of smoke and a yellow glow.

The couple leapt out of bed with Gina heading straight to her son's room.

As flames lapped the walls, she grabbed Milo from his bed and ran back across the burning landing to her room.

Toby Jarrett was badly burned as he crossed the landing after her. He fell to the ground after balancing on the bedroom windowsill.

Kate Lumsdon QC told the jury: 'Struggling to his feet, he shouted to Gina to pass Milo down to him. There was no reply. He shouted and shouted but he could not see Gina or Milo.

'Days later, when the house was assessed as safe to enter, the remains of the bodies of Gina and Milo were found in Gina's bedroom, under the window.

'Gina was crouching over Milo, protecting him.'

The body of a dog the family were looking after for a friend was lying next to them, with a burning petrol can left outside the front of the house.

CCTV (pictured above) from another house on the street showed Barnard and Milne looking back as they walked calmly away from the fatal blaze

One of the first firefighters on the scene noticed a burning green fuel can (pictured left and right) as he approached the front doorway

Ms Lumsdon told the court: 'Fire ripped through the small terraced house like a torch.'

The jury was told Mr Jarrett owed 400 to a local drug dealer. Ms Lumsdon said the fire was intended to send a message.

She said: 'The general message sent out to the wider drug community - don't mess with this drugs line.'

The fire took more than two hours to put out, the court heard.

Investigators said patterns of burning showed fire started in the hallway and spread up the staircase to the top floor and roof.

Gina and Milo died of smoke inhalation.

Toby Jarrett suffered partial full thickness burns to 40 per cent of his body, five fractured vertebrae in his back and a fractured pelvis.

One of the first firefighters on the scene noticed a burning green fuel can as he approached the front doorway.

The lighter used to set the fire. DNA matching Barnard was found on the lighter and DNA matching Milne was found on the petrol can both discarded at the scene

The weapons found in Milne's shed. Police found a collection of knives, an extendable baton, a taser together with gloves and a balaclava

Barnard ran his drug empire from a villa in Macieira, Portugal, the court heard.

He dealt in second hand cars, buying them in the UK and taking them to Portugal to sell on.

Ms Lumsdon said: 'He also dealt in drugs. He said that someone had owed him money and he wanted to make an example of him.

'He said that he and 'a Scottish guy' had poured petrol through the letterbox and set fire to the house.'

Barnard was convicted of drugs offences in Portugal and jailed in June last year.

Milne, known as Scotty or Scottish, denied he was Barnard's enforcer in the UK, Ms Lumsdon said.

Police uncovered a hoard of weapons when they searched Milne's shed.

The cars used by Barnard and Milne. Barnard dealt in second hand cars, buying them in the UK and taking them to Portugal to sell on

They found a collection of knives, an extendable baton, a taser together with gloves and a balaclava.

In October 2018, Milne, originally from Glasgow, sent a text message to his girlfriend after she complained about having too much work.

He wrote: 'Set it on fire and walk out but just as you leave drop the lighter like a mike xxxxx.'

Ms Lumsdon said police found Milne bought 15 litres of petrol from a petrol station in Hastings four days before the fire.

On January 5 this year following extradition proceedings, Barnard was flown into Gatwick from Portugal and arrested.

He will be returned to Portugal to finish his sentence there.

Barnard and Milne will be sentenced tomorrow.

John Tabakis, who drove the car used in the murders to Portugal, will be sentenced at a later date.
Kate and Gerry McCann are still facing legal costs to fight sickening claims by a Portuguese detective that they were responsible for their daughter Maddie's death, MailOnline has learned.

New documents reveal they face ongoing expenses as part of their long running libel action against the police officer who investigated the disappearance of Maddie, 14 years ago this month.

In a 2008 book Portuguese detective Goncalo Amaral claimed Kate and Gerry accidentally killed Maddie and covered it up by pretending she had been abducted.

The couple won an initial libel claim challenging his outrageous claim, but the policeman overturned the decision and it was also upheld by another court.

Kate and Gerry McCann are still facing legal costs to fight sickening claims by a Portuguese detective that they were responsible for their daughter Maddie's death, MailOnline has learned

Two years ago court files showed the couple had had to fork out 29,500 on legal fees for Amaral. Since then they have had to pay out a further 4,229 in legal costs making a total of nearly 34,000.

The European Court of Human Rights is due to rule on a further legal appeal shortly and if the McCanns lose the right to appeal they will have to pay still further court costs to Amaral.

The latest payout is detailed in accounts for the company, Madeleine's Fund: Leaving No Stone Unturned Limited, which is funding the search for the couple's daughter aged three who disappeared on May 3, 2007.

Paperwork says: 'Legal costs of 4,229 were reimbursed to the directors, Gerald and Kate McCann in relation to ongoing libel action in Portugal.'

The family's lawyer in Portugal Isabel Duarte said she did not wish to comment on the costs.

Referring to the legal case earlier this year a close friend of the couple said: 'It drags on and on. They go one step forward then two two back. It's caused them so much anguish over the years and they just want to draw a line under it.

In a 2008 book Portuguese detective Goncalo Amaral (left) claimed Kate and Gerry accidentally killed Maddie (right) and covered it up by pretending she had been abducted

'It's never been about seeking damages but simply trying to stop false and malicious accusations being spouted. They still have no idea if their appeal in their fight for justice will be granted, or not.'

Accounts show Madeleine's Fund had reserves of 773,629 in the year to the end of March 2020 down from 844,573 the year before.

Sales of Kate McCann's book 'Madeleine: Our Daughter's disappearance and the continuing search for her' helped boost the fund by 6,543 during the year, the accounts said.

Three-year-old Maddie went missing from a holiday apartment in Praia da Luz, Portugal in May 2007.

Heart doctor Gerry and medical worker Kate have fought tirelessly to find their daughter.
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Health Secretary Matt Hancock said today that between half and three quarters of all Covid cases in the UK are now being caused by the Indian variant

The Indian Covid variant now makes up between half and three quarters of all cases in the UK, Matt Hancock said today.

The Health Secretary said in a Downing Street press conference that the fast-spreading strain is now dominant in Britain, taking over from the Kent variant that had been the most common one since Christmas.

He said the new variant was 'still spreading and the latest estimates are that more than half and potentially as many as three quarters of all new cases are now of this variant'.

An update from Public Health England showed there have been 6,959 cases of the strain confirmed so far, almost doubling from 3,535 this time last week. It has now been found in 252 local authorities in England out of around 300, showing it has reached most corners of the country.

Dr Jenny Harries, chief of the UK Health Security Agency, said: 'In most areas in England we do know that the new variant, the variant that originated in India, is taking the place of the 117 variant, so its something we need to watch really carefully.'

The surging numbers of cases have cast doubt over whether the June 21 end of lockdown will be able to go ahead as planned.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson admitted today that No10 may have to wait for more data before pressing ahead with the easing of the final set of lockdown restrictions, while the Health Secretary told MPs it was still 'too early' to say if the roadmap needed to be slowed down in the face of the mutant strain.

SAGE adviser Professor Neil Ferguson, aka 'Professor Lockdown', said the roadmap now hangs 'in the balance' and his colleague Professor John Edmunds said he wouldn't go ahead with June 21 because it is 'a little bit too risky'.

Health chiefs today recorded 3,542 positive coronavirus tests  the highest figure since April 12 and up by 23.2 per cent on last Thursday's count. It is the second day running cases have risen by a fifth compared to the week before but Dr Harries said it may be caused in part by surge testing in variant hotspots.

Public Health England also added another new variant to its list of 'under investigation' strains. 109 cases of a variant dubbed C.63.3 and first seen in Egyptian travellers in Thailand have been spotted in the UK. PHE said there is 'currently no evidence that this variant causes more severe disease or renders the vaccines currently deployed any less effective'. It said it was doing more tests to find out more about the strain.

A weekly update from Public Health England showed tonight that Bolton in Greater Manchester remains the Indian variant hotspot by a long stretch, with 1,354 cases found there.

Second on the list was Bedford with almost 1,000 fewer than the top spot, at 366. Blackburn, Leicester, Sefton in Merseyside, Wigan, Central Bedfordshire, Manchester and Hillingdon in London have all had more than 100 cases.

While there are dozens of other places where the variant has been seen, almost half have had fewer than five positive tests each and the vast majority have had fewer than 10.

Mr Hancock said: 'The latest estimates are that more than half and potentially as many as three-quarters of all new cases are now of this variant.

'As we set out our road map we always expected cases to rise, we must remain vigilant.

BOLTON HOSPITAL CHIEF PRAISES VACCINES Matt Hancock today said vaccines were helping to protect the NHS in Bolton where cases have surged in recent weeks. In the Downing Street briefing he said the link between the number of cases and the number of hospital admissions remains the critical point, pointing out that only five out of 49 patients were people who had been fully vaccinated  the others were not totally covered. Mr Hancock said: 'Earlier today I spoke to Fiona Noden, the chief executive of Bolton Hospital, and her message is very clear. The hospital is functioning well and it is open to all those who need it, but people need to be careful and cautious and follow the rules and take personal responsibility to help to slow the spread. 'She also said, and I quote: "I dread to think where wed be without the vaccine, so please ask people to come forward and get the jab". 'So when you get the call get the jab and make sure you come forward for your second dose so you can get the maximum possible protection.' Advertisement

'The aim, of course, is to break the link to hospitalisations and deaths so that cases alone no longer require stringent restrictions on people's lives.'

He added: 'The increase in cases remains focused in hotspots and we are doing all we can to tackle this variant wherever it flares up.

'Over the past six months we now have built a huge testing capacity at our disposal and we are using this to surge testing into the eight hotspot areas and other places where the cases are lower but rising.

'In the hotspot areas we are surging vaccines, too, for those who are eligible, in Bolton for instance we have done 17,147 vaccinations in the last week.'

Although there are concerns about the variant in Whitehall  Public Health England and SAGE are now convinced it is more infectious than the Kent strain  vaccines appear to be working well against it.

Mr Hancock said that, of 49 people in hospital with the virus in Bolton, only five had been fully vaccinated. Mathematicians said this could mean the jabs are still over 90 per cent effective against the mutated virus.

The PHE report showed that only two people are confirmed to have died with the Indian variant after having had both of their vaccine doses. Only 177 cases out of 5,599 since February 1 were among fully vaccinated people, and only one of them was admitted to hospital.

Dr Harries said in a statement: 'We now know that getting both vaccine doses gives a high degree of protection against this variant and we urge everyone to have the vaccine when the NHS invites you.'

PHE's report showed that, although B1617.2 had only made up around 2.5 per cent of all cases since October, since February it appeared to account for 84 per cent.

Its report said: 'Whilst case numbers remain very low, the proportion of cases which are VOC-21APR-02 (B.1.617.2) has continued to increase... VOC-21APR-02 is likely to be the predominant variant in England although there is regional heterogeneity [differences].'

Mobile testing units have been sent to areas with large numbers of cases and an extra 400,000 swab test kits have been sent to the worst-hit places, with the Army dishing them out on the streets in Bolton.

Boss at the NHS Providers union, Saffron Cordery, said the new figures were 'deeply concerning' and added: 'Data on hospital cases seems to be focused amongst those patients who either haven't been vaccinated yet or had just one vaccine.

'This hammers home just how important it is get fully vaccinated against COVID-19. We urge everyone to get their jabs when they're offered them.'

Public Health England's report shows that cases of the Indian variant were originally mostly in London but then a huge spike in the North West followed, with it now present in every region of the country

The report shows that the Indian variant, VOC-21APR-02 (pink) now makes up the majority of coronavirus cases in England

More promising data from PHE show that the effects of the variant on vaccinated people are significantly less  out of 5,599 cases only 177 were found to be in people who had had both doses, and only one out of 43 hospital admissions was. Infections, hospitalisations and deaths were all significantly more common in unvaccinated people

Fears about the variant taking over and making vaccines less effective have led No10 to admit they could have to postpone the end of lockdown, scheduled for June 21.

Boris Johnson said he would have to wait and see how the data develop as time goes on since the reopening of pubs and relaxation of limits on indoor socialising earlier this month.

The PM has refused to rule out imposing local lockdowns to tackle the spread of the variant, or delaying the end of national restrictions.

Professor Neil Ferguson told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that scientists were still 'working to assess how much more transmissible it is'.

But he said: 'It has gone from being a small minority to a majority variant and that's clearly of concern.

'We know it partially evades the immunity generated by vaccines. Thankfully if people have had two doses there's still a large amount of immunity remaining, but it's not quite as much as before.

'Step four is rather in the balance, the data collected in the next two or three weeks will be critical.'

He added: 'The key issue on whether we can go forward is will the surge caused by the Indian variant  and we do think there will be a surge  be more than has been already planned in to the relaxation measures.

'It was always expected that relaxation would lead to a surge in infections and to some extent a small third wave of transmission, that's inevitable if you allow contact rates in the population to go up, even despite immunity. It's just we can't cope with that being too large.'

 Slide me  And Public Health England analysis released today showed cases have ticked up in every region except the East Midlands. Infections rate jumped in 79 of England's upper-tier authorities in the week ending May 23  doubling in four parts of the country: Darlington, Wokingham, Oldham and Blackburn with Darwen

And Professor Edmunds, also a SAGE member and expert at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, told ITV last night: 'You know, the Indian variant is taking off in a number of places  not everywhere, but a number of places.

'Luckily we've still got low levels, but it is concerning. And we are still not back to normal. We measure people's contact patterns and we're still at less than half of our normal contact patterns at the moment. So I think that is helping to keep the lid on it, to some extent.'

NHS bosses have said the next seven days will be 'crucial' in assessing whether Covid jabs work.

Though increasing cases are usually followed by rises in hospitalisations and deaths, officials say jabs have broken that once impenetrable link.

Cases are only clearly rising in THREE of England's eight Indian variant hotspots, data shows Covid cases are only clearly rising in three of England's Indian variant hotspots, official statistics show amid warnings that people aged under 21 may be more likely to catch the mutant strain. Blackburn with Darwen, Kirklees and Bedford are the only areas of the eight identified by ministers as being to have seen an obvious rise in infections. Burnley has seen a fall in the average number of positive tests being spotted each day, based on the most recent data on the Department of Health's coronavirus dashboard. Outbreaks appear flat in the other four areas: Bolton, Leicester, Hounslow and North Tyneside. And the number of beds occupied by Covid patients has remained in single figures for all but one of the areas  Bolton, which saw a fall from 44 to 41 beds on Tuesday. Just one person was in hospital with Covid in the hospital trust covering North Tyneside at the most recent date. But hospitalisation data is much harder to untangle because some NHS trusts care for larger areas, with multiple hospitals under their jurisdiction. For example, East Lancashire Trust includes hospitals in Burnley and Blackburn, providing one piece of data for both hotspots. Experts say admissions in Bolton are currently lower than they would have predicted based on case numbers a fortnight ago, even though rates have crept up over the past month. Professor Christina Pagel, a member of Independent SAGE, hailed the most recent case numbers as 'good news', despite previously saying ministers may need to delay the last stage of lockdown easing on May 17 due to the rapid spread of the Indian variant. She tweeted: 'So some good news: cases in some of the new variant hotspots are now coming down  especially in Bolton.' Advertisement

But Chris Hopson, chief executive of NHS Providers, said trusts 'will be monitoring the data closely' to ensure the Indian variant hasn't scuppered the roll-out.

Hospital admissions jumped by around 11 per cent compared with the previous seven days, according to official statistics.

Mr Hopson said hospitals in Indian variant hotspots in England were seeing cases rise steadily but they were not increasing 'at an alarming rate', and he said: 'The next seven days will be crucial, and trusts will be monitoring the data closely.'

He added that hospital admissions appeared to be of patients who had not been vaccinated, explaining: 'This hammers home just how important it is to have a vaccination'.

Britain's mammoth vaccine drive has continued at full steam ahead amid the threat of the Indian variant.

Another 387,987 top-up jabs were dished out across the country on Tuesday  taking the UK's number of fully vaccinated adults to more than 23.6 million.

Another 186,147 first doses were also administered, with 38.4 million adults  or 72.9 per cent  having had at least one jab.

England's roll-out was yesterday expanded to 30 and 31-year-olds. Northern Ireland today began offering jabs to all over-18s. Wales and Scotland have both already started to invite the youngest cohort.

Observing the rise in cases, Professor Ferguson said the increase had been anticipated.

Though he suggested restrictions could be extended beyond June 21, he also reassured that the country's jabs roll-out meant the UK is in a 'much better place' than during the second wave in December.

The professor also suggested the country could cope if the Indian variant was proven to only be 20 to 30 per cent more transmissible  which SAGE scientists have argued is feasible.

Government advisers sounded the alarm about the Indian variant last month before it became the UK's dominant strain, saying it may be up to 50 per cent more infectious than the Kent variant.

But scientists have since offered more optimism, believing the true figure to be around half of the initial estimate. Rigorous analysis has also shown vaccines still work against the strain.

Despite fears the rapid spread of the Indian variant could threaten plans to ease lockdown restrictions next month, Britain's coronavirus outbreak may not be spiralling out of control.

The number of people falling ill with symptoms of coronavirus has fallen by up to 10 per cent over the last week, according to a symptom-tracking app.

Academics at King's College London and health-tech firm ZOE estimate that 2,550 Britons  and 1,919 people in England  were becoming ill every day on May 23. For comparison, figures a week before stood at 2,750 and 2,132, respectively.

Professor Tim Spector, the epidemiologist behind the app, said national figures 'remain unaffected', despite numerous measures saying that the outbreak is starting to get bigger with the quick growth of the B.1.617.2 strain.

WHERE HAS THE INDIAN VARIANT B.1.617.2 BEEN FOUND IN ENGLAND? (PHE weekly update for May 27) Area name Cases Area name Cases Area name Cases Area name Cases Area name Cases Bolton 1,354 Pendle 24 Sutton 9 Barnsley <5 Ipswich <5 Bedford 366 Stockport 24 Tonbridge and Malling 9 Breckland <5 Isle of Wight <5 Blackburn with Darwen 361 Watford 24 Wandsworth 9 Colchester <5 King's Lynn and West Norfolk <5 Leicester 197 Camden 23 Wirral 9 East Hertfordshire <5 Lincoln <5 Sefton 175 East Northamptonshire 23 County Durham 8 East Staffordshire <5 Mid Sussex <5 Nottingham 158 Liverpool 23 Maidstone 8 Epsom and Ewell <5 North Somerset <5 Wigan 113 Slough 23 Reigate and Banstead 8 Exeter <5 North West Leicestershire <5 Central Bedfordshire 109 Wolverhampton 23 Ribble Valley 8 Halton <5 Redditch <5 Manchester 105 Hart 21 Stevenage 8 Lichfield <5 South Tyneside <5 Hillingdon 102 Dudley 20 Vale of White Horse 8 North Hertfordshire <5 Stoke-on-Trent <5 Brent 83 Walsall 20 Wakefield 8 Norwich <5 Stroud <5 Ealing 83 Hackney 19 West Oxfordshire 8 Selby <5 Surrey Heath <5 Hounslow 80 North Lincolnshire 19 Brighton and Hove 7 South Bucks <5 Tandridge <5 Croydon 76 Barking and Dagenham 18 Gateshead 7 South Cambridgeshire <5 Waverley <5 Birmingham 68 Newcastle upon Tyne 18 Merton 7 South Norfolk <5 Winchester <5 Harrow 66 Leeds 17 Peterborough 7 Swale <5 Allerdale <5 Greenwich 64 Mid Suffolk 17 Richmond upon Thames 7 Tamworth <5 Basingstoke and Deane <5 Kirklees 63 Rushmoor 17 Rugby 7 Uttlesford <5 Carlisle <5 Bromley 59 South Gloucestershire 17 Sevenoaks 7 Warrington <5 Cheltenham <5 North Tyneside 58 Southwark 17 Stafford 7 West Suffolk <5 Cherwell <5 Chorley 53 Bradford 16 Ashford 6 Ashfield <5 Corby <5 Luton 52 Hyndburn 16 Blaby 6 Bath and North East Somerset <5 Cornwall <5 Newham 48 Lewisham 16 Broxbourne 6 Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole <5 Daventry <5 Rochdale 46 St. Helens 16 Eastleigh 6 Chiltern <5 Derbyshire Dales <5 Unknown 46 Aylesbury Vale 15 Fylde 6 Crawley <5 Folkestone and Hythe <5 Bury 45 Wokingham 15 Hertsmere 6 Darlington <5 Guildford <5 South Northamptonshire 45 Wyre 15 Oadby and Wigston 6 Epping Forest <5 Hinckley and Bosworth <5 Burnley 43 Cheshire East 14 Oxford 6 Fareham <5 Horsham <5 Preston 43 Hammersmith and Fulham 14 Rushcliffe 6 Gloucester <5 Kettering <5 Coventry 38 Nuneaton and Bedworth 14 Test Valley 6 Gravesham <5 Lancaster <5 Milton Keynes 38 Oldham 14 Woking 6 Harlow <5 Maldon <5 Tower Hamlets 38 Wiltshire 14 Basildon 5 Knowsley <5 Malvern Hills <5 Barnet 35 Bassetlaw 13 Blackpool 5 Mansfield <5 Medway <5 Trafford 35 Dartford 13 Bracknell Forest 5 Redcar and Cleveland <5 Middlesbrough <5 Enfield 33 South Ribble 13 Brentwood 5 Somerset West and Taunton <5 New Forest <5 Lambeth 33 Waltham Forest 13 Calderdale 5 South Lakeland <5 Newcastle-under-Lyme <5 Haringey 32 Charnwood 12 Cheshire West and Chester 5 Southend-on-Sea <5 North East Lincolnshire <5 Salford 32 Three Rivers 12 Derby 5 St Albans <5 North Kesteven <5 Sandwell 32 Cambridge 11 Huntingdonshire 5 Stockton-on-Tees <5 North Warwickshire <5 Reading 31 West Lancashire 11 Kingston upon Hull, City of 5 Sunderland <5 Plymouth <5 Redbridge 31 Doncaster 10 Kingston upon Thames 5 Thanet <5 Rotherham <5 Canterbury 30 Herefordshire, County of 10 Northumberland 5 West Berkshire <5 Shropshire <5 Tameside 30 Islington 10 Sheffield 5 West Lindsey <5 South Derbyshire <5 Bristol, City of 28 Kensington and Chelsea 10 South Oxfordshire 5 Worcester <5 South Holland <5 Gedling 28 Rossendale 10 Spelthorne 5 Bromsgrove <5 South Staffordshire <5 Swindon 28 Solihull 10 Telford and Wrekin 5 Dover <5 Tendring <5 Bexley 27 Southampton 10 Tunbridge Wells 5 East Riding of Yorkshire <5 Thurrock <5 Broxtowe 27 Welwyn Hatfield 10 Warwick 5 Elmbridge <5 Torbay <5 High Peak 26 Dacorum 9 Windsor and Maidenhead 5 Erewash <5 Wychavon <5 Westminster 26 Havering 9 Wycombe 5 Harrogate <5 York <5 Chelmsford 24 Northampton 9

He claimed cases appeared to be spiking in hotspots including Bolton, Kirklees and Leicester but added: 'Reassuringly, we aren't seeing numbers rise in other surrounding areas.'

But the picture on the Covid outbreak in England, as well as Britain, remains a mixed bag.

Daily positive tests in the UK yesterday breached the 3,000 mark for the first time since April, and other surveillance studies have warned that cases are starting to rise across the nation.

Separate Test and Trace figures today showed the number of positive swabs across England fell slightly last week, with 14,051 recorded in the seven days to May 19  down from 14,082 in the previous spell.

However, this was fuelled by a drop in the number of NHS workers and seriously ill patients testing positive.

There was a small rise in cases among the general public (from 12,381 to 12,561), even though 40,000 fewer tests being carried out across England.

Swab positivity rates rose in around a third of the 300-plus authorities dotted across the country but fell in Bolton  Britain's worst-hit borough, where the Indian variant is known to be rife.

And Public Health England analysis released today showed cases have ticked up in every region except the East Midlands.

Infections rate jumped in 79 of England's upper-tier authorities in the week ending May 23  doubling in four parts of the country: Darlington, Wokingham, Oldham and Blackburn with Darwen. Outbreaks remained flat in 10 areas.

But the PHE data is based on positive tests and looks at data recorded each week, meaning it doesn't take into account trends that can change day-by-day. Figures can also go up if more tests are carried out.

Dr Doyle said: 'Covid infection rates have risen across most age groups and regions, but encouragingly the number in hospitals across the country remains low.

'However, we are concerned about the outbreak of the variant first discovered in India and in some areas hospitalisations have slightly risen. This is a reminder that we still have a way to go and need to remain cautious.

'The best way to protect yourself and others is by getting the vaccine as soon as you are eligible.

'You must have both doses to get the maximum protection against all the variants and even after the jabs you need to practise "hands, face, space, fresh air" to help keep everyone safe.'

For comparison, the King's College London symptom-tracking app looks at people who become ill. Around a third of infected patients never develop any of the tell-tale warning signs.

Separate data analysed by MailOnline today, from the Department of Health, show that cases may be flat in four of eight Indian variant hotspots: Bolton, Leicester, Hounslow and North Tyneside.

Blackburn with Darwen, Kirklees and Bedford are the only areas of the eight where the disease is rife to have seen an obvious rise in infections.

Burnley has seen a fall in the average number of positive tests being spotted each day, based on the most recent data on the Department of Health's coronavirus dashboard.

But those figures are based on daily cases, which can be skewed easily and are not as reliable. However, scientists still trust them. One Independent SAGE member used them to hail the fact that Boltons curve appears to have started to flatten.

The gold-standard coronavirus surveillance project, carried out by the Office for National Statistics and relied upon by ministers, last week warned of a rise in cases. It gets updated tomorrow.
Chicago mayor Lori Lightfoot is now on the receiving end of a lawsuit following backlash for her declaration that she would only give interviews to journalists of color.

Lightfoot, who assumed office in May 2019, announced last Tuesday that she would only grant one-on-one interviews to 'black and brown' reporters to mark her two-year anniversary in office.

Her announcement about the temporary policy sparked anger from reporters of all colors, but Lightfoot doubled down on her decision the next day, insisting it was part of her lifelong battle for diversity and inclusion.

On Thursday, however, the backlash hit a new level, with a white reporter from the Daily Caller suing Lightfoot in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.

Lori Lightfoot is now on the receiving end of a lawsuit following backlash for her declaration that she would only give interviews to journalists of color

Last week, Lightfoot (left) stated she would only give give one-on-one interviews to 'black and brown' journalists on a temporary basis. She is now being sued by Thomas Catenacci (right), a white reporter from the Daily Caller who alleges he was denied an interview

The lawsuit, filed by Daily Caller News Foundation and Judicial Watch, alleges that Thomas Catenacci was denied an interview by Lightfoot.

The lawsuit claims Catenacci's First Amendment rights were violated, as well as his Fourteenth Amendment right to equal protection.

Catenacci sent three emails to Lightfoot's office asking for an interview beginning on March 20, according to the lawsuit, none of which received a response.

The lawsuit says 'failing to respond in a timely manner' to the interview requests was akin to a denial.

While it doesn't specify whether Lightfoot is being sued for damages, it does include request for a jury trial.

Catenacci was hoping to speak to her about Chicago's battle against COVID-19 and the vaccination effort in the city.

'It's absurd that an elected official believes she can discriminate on the basis of race,' DCNF Editor-in-Chief Ethan Barton said in the Daily Caller. 'Mayor Lightfoots decision is clearly blocking press freedom through racial discrimination.'

In an open letter last week, Lightfoot detailed her decision to exclusively provide interviews with journalists of color, claiming it is part of a 'fight for diversity and inclusion'

Tom Fitton, the president of Judicial Watch, also commented on the lawsuit.

'Racial discrimination has no place in America, especially in the halls of government,' Fitton said.

'Mayor Lightfoots admitted policy of race-based discrimination is flagrantly illegal and immoral. Simply put, were asking the court to find Mayor Lightfoots racist abuse unlawful,' Fitton added.

Catenacci, meanwhile, says that he aims to hold Lightfoot 'accountable.'

'Preventing journalists from doing our jobs in such a blatantly discriminatory way is wrong and does a disservice to our readers who come from all backgrounds,' Catenacci said.

'Every journalist and every person who consumes the news should be concerned by Mayor Lightfoots actions,' he continued.

The reporter also tweeted about the lawsuit on Thursday morning.

The lawsuit is arguably the most significant backlash since Lightfoot issued her open letter last week after news came out about her decree.

'I have been struck since my first day on the campaign trail back in 2018 by the overwhelming whiteness and maleness of Chicago media outlets, editorial boards, the political press corps, and yes, the City Hall press corps specifically,' Lightfoot wrote.

She called it 'unacceptable' that reporters covering City Hall were mostly white.

'Many of them are smart and hard-working, savvy and skilled. But mostly white, nonetheless,' she wrote.

Lightfoot later confirmed in a series of tweets that she was purposefully 'prioritizing media requests from POC reporters' and that it was a 'shame' the journalists assigned to cover Chicago's City Hall in 2021 were overwhelmingly white.

Lightfoot tweeted last week about why she was prioritizing media requests from POC

'I ran to break up the status quo that was failing so many. That isn't just in City Hall. It's a shame that in 2021, the City Hall press corps is overwhelmingly white in a city where more than half of the city identifies as black, Latino, AAPI or Native American,' she tweeted.

She added, 'Diversity and inclusion is imperative across all institutions including media. In order to progress we must change.

'This is exactly why I'm being intentional about prioritizing media requests from POC reporters on the occasion of the two-year anniversary of my inauguration as mayor of this great city.

'This is an imbalance that needs to change. Chicago is a world-class city. Our local media should reflect the multiple cultures that comprise it. We must be intentional about doing better. I believed that when running for office. I stand on this belief now. It's time for the newsrooms to do better and build teams that reflect the make-up of our city.'

Lightfoot has faced strong backlash, including from reporters and from Tucker Carlson

The backlash against Lightfoot's decision came swiftly.

On his program last Wednesday night, Tucker Carlson described the mayor of Chicago as a Nazi and 'a monster.'

'To Lori Lightfoot, all that matters is the fact they're white because white people are the same. They are entirely defined by the color of their skin,' Carlson told his Fox News audience.

'Lori Lightfoot is a monster. Any society that allows politicians to talk like this has a very ugly future ahead. Very ugly.'

Leo Terrell, a civil rights attorney and Fox News contributor, later told Sean Hannity he thought Lightfoot was racist.

'Lori Lightfoot is a racist - not a covert racist, an overt racist,' he said.

'The reason why she gets away with it is because she is black and she got that 'D' in front of her name.

Gregory Pratt, a Chicago Tribune reporter who is Latino, revealed he was among those who had been granted an interview but the newspaper canceled it when Lightfoot refused to lift her ban on other reporters.

'I am a Latino reporter @chicagotribune whose interview request was granted for today. However, I asked the mayor's office to lift its condition on others and when they said no, we respectfully canceled,' Pratt tweeted.

'Politicians don't get to choose who covers them.'

Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor, a Pulitzer Prize finalist and contributing writer for the New Yorker magazine and the New York Times, suggested the move was a way to draw attention from the mayor's failures.

'Such astonishing mastery of deflection and distraction ... always hiding from her disastrous record of boldly upholding the status quo in Chicago,' Taylor, who also is a professor at Princeton University, tweeted.

Steve Cortes of Newsmax also tweeted: 'Never mind the thousands of young black men dead in my city while Lori Lightfoot presides over systemic failure  she's facilitating 'healing' by discriminating against white reporters.'

Following Lightfoot's statement, local journalist Taylor Moore said the backlash and reaction to the Mayor's decision was 'fascinating'.

'The response to this is so fascinating. White journalists are aggrieved and journalists of color are like 'lmaooooooo ok??',' she tweeted.

WGN News anchor and political reporter Tahman Bradley said: 'Lightfoot has feuded with certain reporters recently but her office says she wants to shine a spotlight on the lack of diversity in the City Hall briefing room.'
A California rapist who went on the run after failing to sign the sex offenders register was caught in Florida 21 years later after applying for a fishing license.

David Swenson, 53, was arrested on Tuesday after Hernando County Sheriff's Office received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about a sex offender who was possibly living in Spring Hill.

Investigators discovered that Swenson was an 'absconded sex offender' from California who had active warrants there for failing to register as a sex offender in the state in 2000, the sheriff's office said in a statement.

He was convicted of rape and another serious sex offence in 1989 and freed in 1993, but failed to register seven years later, sparking a hunt by authorities.

David Swenson, 53, (pictured earlier this week) was charged with failing to register as a sex offender and is currently being held without bail

David Swenson (pictured in 2000) spent 21 years on the run and failed to register as a sex offender in Florida

The Hernando County Sheriff's Office arrested Swenson after they received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about a sex offender who was possibly living in Spring Hill



Detectives learned that Swenson was living under the name Kevin Crowley with his wife in a Springs Hill home and recently used that alias to obtain a fishing license.

Cops say they used multiple databases to deduce that Crowley was really Swenson, but did not explain further - or say how the fishing license registration had ultimately led to his capture.

Police said two cars, a camper, and a boat found on his Florida property were all registered to his wife, Kathleen Crowley.

It is unclear if she knew of her husband's real identity, or his criminal past.

The sheriff's office said they had previous contact with Swenson in 2009 when they responded to his Spring Hill home over an undisclosed matter and found him hiding in the attic.

Authorities said that Swenson provided police his false name of Kevin Crowley and he was issued a notice appear in court but the case, whose specifics were not shared, was eventually dropped due to a pre-trial diversion.

Further details on why Swenson's decision to hide in the attic did not arouse police suspicions were not revealed.

DailyMail.com has contacted Hernando County Sheriff's Office for further information.

Records from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles show that Swenson never obtained a driver's license or ID card under his real or fake name or registered in the state of Florida as a sex offender.

Swenson was finally arrested after detectives went to his Spring Hill home and spoke to his wife Kathleen, who told police he was out riding his bike in the neighborhood.

Detectives searched for Swenson and were not able to find him until the department's aviation unit found him walking on the bike trail of a local park.

Swenson confirmed his identity to police and he was taken into custody.

During an interview with detectives Swenson said he wanted to 'end his time on the run,' and that he had been living in Spring Hill for the entire 21 years he was on the 'run,' the sheriff's department said.

Swenson also admitted to escaping from California and failing to register as a sex offender in Florida.

The Hernando County Sheriff's Office said 'unfortunately' California authorities declined to extradite Swenson.

The 53-year-old was charged with failing to register as a sex offender and is currently being held without bail.

He faces being extradited back to California to stand trial.
A prosecutor urged jurors Thursday to find a farm laborer guilty of first-degree murder in the 2018 abduction and stabbing death of a University of Iowa student who disappeared while out for a run.

Prosecutor Scott Brown said in a closing argument that the trial testimony revealed 'overwhelming evidence' that Cristhian Bahena Rivera is guilty of murder in the death of 20-year-old Mollie Tibbetts.

He called Bahena Riveras testimony that two men kidnapped him at gunpoint and forced him to take part in the crime 'a figment of his imagination,' saying he concocted the story to try to explain away damning evidence.

Cristhian Bahena Rivera listens as Assistant Iowa Attorney General Scott Brown delivers his closing arguments in his trial on Thursday

Cristhian Bahena Rivera has pleaded not guilty to killing Mollie Tibbetts, pictured, in July 2018 while she was out running in Brooklyn, Iowa

Cristhian Bahena Rivera is on trial after being charged with first degree murder in the death of Mollie Tibbetts in July 2018

Brown said the evidence shows that Bahena Rivera drove past Tibbetts while she was running on the evening of July 18, 2018, in her hometown of Brooklyn, Iowa. He said Bahena Rivera found her attractive, tracked her down on a rural road and approached her as she ran.

Brown said that Tibbetts rebuked Bahena Riveras advances and threatened to call the police, which made him angry.

'The way he reacts with that anger is to stab this young woman to death and to dump her body in a cornfield,' said Brown, an assistant attorney general.

Brown said that Bahena Rivera also had 'a sexual motive,' noting that Tibbetts was partially naked with her legs spread when her body was found in a remote cornfield.

Bahena Rivera knew for five weeks where he had hidden Tibbetts' body under corn stalks but stayed quiet as investigators worked long hours to find out what had caused the 'sweet young woman' to disappear, Brown said.

He later led them to the body in the dark and confessed to the crime, he said.

Cristhian Bahena Rivera, center, listens as Assistant Iowa Attorney General Scott Brown delivers his closing arguments in his trial on Thursday

Cristhian Bahena Rivera, center, listens as Assistant Iowa Attorney General Scott Brown delivers his closing arguments in his trial

Bahena Rivera's defense lawyer, Chad Frese, told jurors that the confession was false and coerced, and that prosecutors failed to prove that it was his client who stabbed Tibbetts to death. He noted that they never found a murder weapon or produced any witnesses showing exactly where she was killed, despite having 'unlimited resources' to pursue the highly publicized case.

Frese said Bahena Rivera had no history of violence and worked to avoid police, given that he was living in the country illegally. He said it made no sense that his client would be 'brazen enough to pick up a woman, abduct her and maybe kill her in a span of 10 to 20 minutes.'

'Folks, this was planned, not by him but by someone else,' Frese said.

The closing arguments came after a two-week trial at the Scott County Courthouse in Davenport. The 12-member jury began deliberating Thursday afternoon.

Assistant Iowa Attorney General Scott Brown delivers his closing arguments during Cristhian Bahena Rivera's trial as he urged jurors to find a guilty verdict

Cristhian Bahena Rivera's defense attorney Chad Frese delivers his closing arguments in his trial at the Scott County Courthouse in Davenport, Iowa

Cristhian Bahena Rivera listens to his attorney Jennifer Frese, right, question a witness during his trial

Earlier Thursday, prosecutors had called one rebuttal witness to establish an alibi for Tibbetts' boyfriend, Dalton Jack, pictured, whom the defense suggested was involved

Earlier Thursday, prosecutors had called one rebuttal witness to establish an alibi for Tibbetts' boyfriend, Dalton Jack, whom the defense suggested was involved.

Jack worked on a bridge project in Dubuque, Iowa, until 7pm on July 18, 2018, about an hour before Tibbetts was abducted and killed, his former supervisor Nick Wilson testified.

Wilsons testimony suggested that Jack would not have been able to be in Brooklyn when Tibbetts disappeared. Brooklyn is about 140 miles away from Dubuque, or more than a two-hour drive.

Wilson said that after Jack got off of work, he grilled and drank beer with other crew members at a hotel that evening and was at work the next morning at 5:30 a.m.

Frese, the defense lawyer, said investigators did not look thoroughly into Jack. He noted Jack sent Tibbetts a text message within minutes of when she disappeared saying that his cellular 'data straight up won't work.'

'Thats a suspicious text if I have ever seen one, folks,' he said. 'It sounds like someone trying to cover his tracks.'

Prosecutors told jurors that an autopsy found that she had been stabbed seven to 12 times in the chest, ribs, neck, and skull, and that she died from sharp force injuries
A prominent Iranian rights activist has been sentenced to 80 lashes and 30 months in prison after she criticised the death penalty and accusing prison officials of 'torture and harassment'.

Narges Mohammadi, 49, a journalist, was handed the sentence after being found guilty of 'propaganda against the system' of the Islamic republic for condemning Iran's use of capital punishment.

The mother-of-two was also found guilty of 'rebellion against the prison authority' after she accused prison guards of torture.

Her lawyer, Mahmoud Behzadi-Rad, said that Mohammadi does not intend to appeal given the 'circumstances', without providing further details.

Narges Mohammadi, 49, a journalist, was handed the sentence after being found guilty of 'propaganda against the system' of the Islamic republic for condemning Iran's use of capital punishment

Meanwhile, the EU said the sentencing is 'a worrying development' and urged Iran to review Mohammadi's case.

Mohammadi, a campaigner against the death penalty, was arrested in May 2015 when she was spokeswoman for the Defenders of Human Rights Centre in Iran, which was founded by lawyer and Nobel Peace price laureate Shirin Ebadi.

At that time, she was handed a 10-year prison sentence for 'forming and managing an illegal group', among other charges, but was released last year after her sentence was reduced.

But on Tuesday it was reported by reformist newspaper Etemad that Mohammadi had been tried and found guilty of 'propaganda against the system' of the Islamic Republic, as well as 'defemation' and 'rebellion against the prison authority'.

She had been charged with having 'issued a statement against the death penalty', of having accused prison officials of 'torture and harassment', and of organising a sit-in protest while in prison.

Mohammadi was sentenced to 80 lashes, another 30 months in prison and two fines.

The mother-of-two was also found guilty of 'rebellion against the prison authority' after she accused prison guards of torture. Pictured: Mohammadi, centre, next to Iranian Peace Prize laureate Shirin Ebadi, left, while attending a meeting on women's rights in Tehran, Iran in 2007

While serving her first prison sentence, Mohammadi was moved from Tehran's Evin prison to a prison in Zanjan, in northwestern Iran, according to Reporters Without Borders.

The journalist had 'lodged a complaint against her immoral and illegal transfer,' her lawyer said.

She had also claimed she was 'beaten and harassed' in Evin Prison, reports Etemad newspaper.

'Instead of examining her complaint, justice officials opened another case against my client,' Mr Behzadi-Rad said.

'Mohammadi has devoted her life to the cause of himan rights,' an EU spokesperson said in a statement, adding that the sentencing is 'a worrying development'.

'The EU calls on Iran to review Mrs Mohammadi's case in compliance with the applicable international human rights law, and taking into account her deteriorating health condition.'

In 2019, a prominent Iranian lawyer was jailed for 38 years and sentenced to 148 lashes after she defended women who removed their headscarves in public.

Nasrin Sotoudeh, an internationally renowned human rights lawyer jailed in Iran, was handed maximum sentence for all of her seven convictions.

Nasrin Sotoudeh, an internationally renowned human rights lawyer jailed in Iran, was handed maximum sentence for all of her seven convictions in 2019

She represented protesters against the Islamic Republic's mandatory headscarves for women, many of whom filmed themselves taking off the garment and posing it on social media.

Sotoudeh, who has represented opposition activists, was arrested in June 2018 and charged with spying, spreading propaganda and insulting Iran's supreme leader, her lawyer said.

Iran, alongside other Middle Eastern countries Egypt, Iraq and Saudi Arabia, dominated a list of the world's top executioners in 2020 with more than 400 executed, Amnesty International revealed last month.

The four countries accounted for 88 per cent of the at least 483 people who were executed.

Iran executed at least 246 people including three people who were under 18 when they committed the crime last year, Amnesty said.

The watchdog added that the death penalty in Iran 'was increasingly used as a weapon of political repression against dissidents, protesters and members of ethnic minority groups'.
This is the dramatic moment an alleged child snatcher was arrested after an armed teacher stopped him abducting an 11 year-old girl from a school playground.

Ira Cox-Berry, 41, was filmed being cuffed and put into a police car in Ogden, Utah, after Tuesday's alleged abduction, which police say was foiled by a hero teacher at Lincoln Elementary School, which his alleged victim attends.

Cox-Berry is said to have attempted to yank the girl away from the playground during recess, only for the armed employee to shout at him to leave her alone.

When the 41-year-old let the schoolgirl go, the teacher ushered her and 19 other students into a nearby classroom, Ogden City Police Department said in a statement.

Police arrested 41-year-old Ira Cox-Berry (pictured) and charged him with attempted child kidnapping

An armed school employee at Lincoln Elementary School (pictured) in Ogden held off an attempted kidnapping suspect with a firearm as he waited for police to arrive

After the children were inside the school, Cox-Berry approached the school building and began punching the window in an attempt to force his way inside.

That was when the teacher, who has a concealed-weapons permit, pulled out his gun and held off the 41-year-old while he called 911.

DailyMail.com spoke to the teacher involved on Thursday afternoon. He asked not to be identified over fears for his future career prospects.

But Lt Brian Eynon of Ogden City PD told ABC4 that the teacher was a 'hero,' whose actions were covered by the law.

He said: 'This employee is protected under the Second Amendment. He followed all policy and procedure at the school, and in this particular case, did everything that he should have done to protect the innocent lives of the children at the school.

'And in this case, it is likely that a life was saved or injury to a life was prevented due to the actions of this heroic employee.' Enynon added.

Lt. Brian Eynon of the Ogden City Police Department called the armed school employee a 'hero'

41-year-old Ira Cox-Berry was arrested after attempting to kidnap an 11-year-old girl from Lincoln Elementary School (pictured) in Ogden

Police arrived and arrested Cox-Berry after a brief struggle.

Lt. Eynon said the 41-year-old was on drugs at the time of his arrest.

'The suspect was high, high on some type of narcotic' he told ABC 4.

The school was briefly placed on lockdown after the 2:30 pm incident, the Standard Examiner reported.

Counselors were on the school campus the following day to help the students, including the 11-year-old girl, deal with any trauma from the incident, ABC4.com reported.

Police found no connection between Cox-Berry and the schoolgirl.

The 41-year-old was booked and charged with attempted child kidnapping.

Lt. Eynon called the school employee a 'hero' for his actions.

'This teacher, in particular, was very prepared emotionally to confront a suspect he didn't know, that was most likely on drugs, could be dangerous, could have been armed, and he took it upon himself to protect and be a hero, frankly, for the children who are on scene there when this went down,' he told ABC 4.
Two Washington police officers on Thursday were charged with murder and one was charged with manslaughter in the death of Manuel Ellis, a black man who told cops he couldn't breathe as he was being restrained.

Attorney General Bob Ferguson filed charges of second-degree murder against Tacoma Police officers Christopher Burbank, 35, and Matthew Collins, 38, and first-degree manslaughter against 32-year-old Timothy Rankine.

If convicted, given their lack of criminal history, Burbank and Collins could face up to 18 years in prison, and Rankine could spend more than eight years behind bars. Both offenses carry a maximum sentence of life in prison.

Tacoma police officers Matthew Collins (left) and Christopher Burbank (center) were charged on Thursday with second-degree murder for the death of Manuel Ellis, and officer Timothy Rankine (right) was charged with first-degree manslaughter

Ellis, 33, died after being restrained by the police and telling them he could not breathe

The officers' charges mark the first time the Washington Attorney Generals Office has criminally charged police officers for the unlawful use of deadly force.

Ellis, a father-of-two known to his loved ones as 'Manny,' was killed on March 3, 2020, just weeks before George Floyd's death under the knee of white Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin triggered a nationwide reckoning on race and policing.

The Pierce County medical examiner called his death a homicide and attributed it to lack of oxygen from being restrained.

The death made Ellis' name synonymous with pleas for justice at protests in the Pacific Northwest. His final words - 'I can't breathe, sir!' - were captured by a home security camera.

Footage of Ellis' arrest was posted on Twitter by the Tacoma Action Collective, a racial justice group, in June. Officers are pictured in footage from the video aggressively trying to restrain Ellis

The footage shows the officers restraining Ellis as the witness drives by

Five Tacoma officers, including Armando Farina and Masyih Ford, were put on paid home leave pending the charging decision. A Pierce County Sheriff's deputy who helped restrain Ellis, Sgt. Gary Sanders, was also a focus of the probe.

The encounter began after officers reported seeing Ellis, who was walking from a store after getting a snack, trying to get into occupied cars at a red light. They said Ellis was the aggressor and charged as an officer exited a police car.

But witnesses who recorded parts of the fatal interaction reported seeing officers Burbank and Collins attack Ellis, 33, without provocation, according to a probable cause statement filed in Pierce County Superior Court. An officer sitting in the passenger side of a patrol car slammed his door into Ellis, knocking him down, and then jumped on him and started beating him, they said.

'Ellis was not fighting back,' the probable cause statement said. 'All three civilian witnesses at the intersection ... state that they never saw Ellis strike at the officers.'

Rankine, who arrived on the scene later, is accused of putting pressure on Ellis' back as the man said, 'I can't breathe.'

In the witness video that emerged in June 2020, a woman filming the arrest from her car is heard yelling out to the officers to stop as they throw punches at Ellis, who is on the ground and kicking at them.

Tacona officer Masyih Ford (left) has been on administrative leave. Pierce County sheriff's deputy who helped restrain Ellis, Sgt. Gary Sanders (right), is being investigated

'Hey! Stop! Oh my God! Stop hitting him. Stop hitting him. Just arrest him. Just arrest him,' the unidentified woman pleaded from her vehicle, before a man, also not identified, distracts her from outside.

The officers are later seen in the footage holding down the man as the woman drives past them.

Officers reported seeing Ellis, who struggled with mental illness, trying to get into occupied cars at a red light

Pierce County Sheriff Ed Troyer, who was at the time a detective and the spokesman for the sheriffs office, said then that none of the officers placed a knee on Ellis neck or head. But one of the witness videos that later surfaced depicts just that.

Farina placed a spit hood over Ellis' head after he told the officers he couldn't breathe, according to Washington State Patrol records.

Farina said he was responding to Ellis' 'assaultive behavior.' The officer recounted that the man was alert and had blood coming from his mouth.

Sanders, who arrived as back-up, also helped to shove the 33-year-old's leg into a hobble to hogtie him while he lay handcuffed and prone on the pavement.

The Pierce County Sheriff's Office botched the initial investigation into Ellis' death by failing to disclose for three months that one of its deputies had responded; state law requires independent investigations. The Washington State Patrol took over, and the Attorney General's Office conducted its review based on evidence gathered by the patrol.

Ellis had a history of mental illness and addiction. In September 2019, he was found naked after trying to rob a fast food restaurant. A sheriff's deputy subdued him with a Taser after he refused to remain down on the ground and charged toward law enforcement.

But his landlords at the sober housing where he was staying told The Seattle Times he had been doing well in recent months after embracing mental health care for his schizophrenia.

A protester holds a sign that reads 'Justice for Manny' in this June 5, 2020, in Tacoma

Ellis' death, Pierce Countys botched investigation into it, and the national outcry for racial justice helped inspire Gov. Jay Inslee to convene a task force to suggest ways to guarantee independent reviews of police use of deadly force.

This month, Inslee signed one of the nation's most ambitious packages of police accountability legislation, including outright bans on police use of chokeholds, neck restraints and no-knock warrants.

The legislation also makes it easier to decertify police for bad acts - and creates an independent office to review deadly force cases.

Warrants were issued for the officers' arrests but it was not immediately clear if they had been taken into custody.

All three charged officers previously served in the Army, the attorney generals office said, and as police officers all had taken training on crisis intervention. Collins and Burbank had each been an officer for four years by March 2020 after serving eight years in the Army. Rankine joined the department in 2018 after six years in the Army and two as a security contractor for the U.S. State Department.
As many as 10 convicted sexual offenders were apprehended by the U.S. Border Patrol along a 245-mile stretch of the United States-Mexico border region in Texas last week.

The apprehensions were made by agents assigned to the Del Rio Sector during the week of May 17 to May 24, according to data released by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Between May 17 and May 23, Del Rio Sector Border Patrol officers arrested four individuals from Mexico and Honduras who in the past were convicted of sexually assault children.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Del Rio Sector apprehended 10 convicted sex offender for illegally crossing the United States-Mexico border in Texas from May 17 to May 24, according to data released Wednesday. Pictured above is an undocumented immigrant detained by the U.S. Border Patrol

Data also showed that Del Rio Sector registered 95 arrests of convicted sex offenders - a 3,166% increase since the beginning of fiscal year 2021 - October 1, 2020 - in comparison with the same time frame of the previous fiscal year. Pictured above is a group of migrants being led away by Del Rio Sector Border Patrol agents

One of the Mexican nationals had a felony conviction for sexual assault of a child under the age of 14. Another native of Mexico had been convicted for sexual conduct with child who was under 13.

A Honduran national who was intercepted for illegally crossing the United States-Mexico border was found to have been convicted for the second-degree sexual assault of a minor.

The Del Rio Sector border agents detained two Mexicans on May 24. One of the individuals had a felony conviction for lewd and lascivious molestations.

U.S. Border Patrol agents from CBP's Del Rio Sector's Uvalde Station guard a group of migrants who were detained Thursday after they were tracked for more than four hours while crossing the U.S.-Mexico border

'The majority of these criminals were apprehended in our sector's most remote areas, attempting to avoid detection by crossing far from populated areas, 'said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Austin L. Skero II.

'Our agents' sign cutting and tracking skills were instrumental in capturing these criminals, preventing them from infiltrating our communities.'

Data also showed that Del Rio Sector registered 95 arrests of convicted sex offenders - a 3,166% increase since the beginning of fiscal year 2021 - October 1, 2020 - in comparison with the same time frame of the previous fiscal year.

A CBP report released May 11 showed that border patrol officers encountered 178,622 undocumented immigrants seeking to enter the United States in April, surpassing March's total by 5,274.

U.S. Border Patrol agents in the Del Rio Sector stopped 21,750 migrants in April after intercepting 20,051 individuals in the previous month.

According to CBP, the Del Rio Sector has 10 border stations that are responsible for the vigilance of along the Rio Grande and Lake Amistad which forms the U.S.-Mexico border.
Mugshot of Shannon Overstreet, 38, father of missing three-month-old Angel Nichole Overstreet

The father of a three-month-old girl who has been missing for nearly three weeks in West Virginia told police officers he handed her over to child protection services, but there is no record of her.

Shannon Overstreet was arrested on Monday on unrelated charges of wounding and battery in the town of Huntington. His three-month-old baby girl, Angel Nichole Overstreet, went missing three weeks earlier, on May 1.

Police did not provide details about the charges Overstreet is facing, but said they were unrelated to the disappearance of Angel, who was wasn't reported missing until this week.

During his arrest, he told authorities he handed the baby over to child protection services, but there is no record of her, and police now fear for her safety.

'Mr. Overstreet was located here in Huntington and came to police headquarters here on May 24,' Cornwell told The Herald-Dispatch.

'He had stated to CPS previously and to our detectives that he had relinquished custody of the child two weeks prior to CPS from West Virginia. Child Protective Services from West Virginia has no knowledge or record of any transfer of custody of this child.'

Missing West Virginia infant Angel Nichole Overstreet hasn't been seen since around May 8

The 38-year-old was booked on Monday at the Western Regional Jail and held on a $100,000 cash/surety bond on the felony charge and a $10,000 bond on the misdemeanor charge, the jail's website states.

Several people came forward with information that still did not lead to the child's whereabouts, according to Huntington Police Captain Levi Livingston.

Local law enforcement implored the public to help in locating the missing child on Tuesday, a day after Overstreet's arrest.

Cornwell said during a press conference on Wednesday that CPS reported the child was missing on Monday following an investigation into a custody battle involving Overstreet in Kentucky.

Police executed search warrants at Overstreets mothers residence in Huntington, as well as his car and phone following his arrest on Monday.

Information pulled from Overstreet's cell phone showed that his daughter was last in his custody around May 1.

Police have expressed serious concern for the missing child's safety, according to authorities

Asked why an Amber Alert was never issued for the infant, Huntington Police Chief Ray Cornwell said it wasn't 'applicable'.

'The Amber Alert System would not be applicable in this situation,' Cornwall said.

'We consulted with the office that issues those alerts, the West Virginia State Police, and the Amber Alert System is used to put out information that is fresh, immediate and ongoing.

'By the time the information came to us, the last known contact with the child was over two weeks away, so we did not have any fresh information or vehicle descriptions or anything like that. It was determined this situation did not qualify for an Amber Alert.'

Authorities plan on next executing a search warrant at Overstreet's residence in the nearby state of Kentucky, with the assistance of the FBI and the US Marshals, Cornwell said.

Police say they are in contact with the infant's mother, who was not named by authorities. She is not believed to have been in the same area at the time when the child went missing, according to the Herald-Dispatch.

'We are working with the Kentucky State Police to execute a search warrant at a property he owns in Olive Hill, Kentucky,' he said.

'We are working with the United States Marshals Service to locate any potential witnesses or persons that may have knowledge related to the location of this child.

'We are working with the FBI. They are assisting us with digital forensics and have offered any other additional resources that we may need. We are also working with the West Virginia Intelligence Fusion Center regarding digital forensics.'

Authorities have refrained from calling Overstreet a suspect as of Wednesday, instead calling him a 'person of interest' in the infant's disappearance.

Cornwall noted that law enforcement are aware of Overstreet's criminal history, however no evidence of foul play is currently suspected at this time, according to local news outlet WSAZ.

The missing child is described as an infant girl with blue eyes and dark-colored reddish hair. Authorities also noted that the child has a strawberry-shaped birthmark on the back of her neck.
Dominic Cummings has unveiled whiteboard charts that he says were brought in to convince Boris Johnson to lock Britain down last year - a move which he compared to a scene from the film Independence Day.

The former aide to the Prime Minister uploaded an image on Twitter which he says was taken in Boris Johnson's study on March 14, 2020, before Britain's first lockdown.

It shows a series of graphs drawn on a whiteboard, outlining potential outcomes that could happen depending on how the Government approached the crisis.

One graph, labelled 'No mitigation', shows a blue bell curve, seemingly representing Covid cases, skyrocketing well above a red line representing 'NHS capacity', predicting there would be '100,000+ people dying in corridors' if no action was taken.

Another graph, titled 'Current plan', shows a more spread out curve, which still exceeded the health service's ability to cope, implying that the measures in place at that time were insufficient to stop the health service being overwhelmed.

A third chart, named the 'Actual plan', shows the rate at which coronavirus spreads being suppressed, with the blue line annotated 'lockdown to (lower) rate = delay'. Under a section titled 'public health' is written '3 weeks min - no non-essential movement'.

Mr Cummings yesterday listed his 'heroes' of the pandemic in evidence to MPs, including Vote Leave 'data geek' Dr Ben Warner, and his AI expert brother Marc.

MPs were told: 'It was like a scene from Independence Day with Jeff Goldblum saying the aliens are here and your whole plan is broken and you need a new plan. With Ben Warner in the Jeff Goldblum role'.

One graph, labelled 'No mitigation', shows a blue bell curve, seemingly representing Covid cases, skyrocketing well above a red line representing 'NHS capacity', predicting there would be '100,000+ people dying in corridors' if no action was taken. Another graph, titled 'Current plan', shows a more spread out curve, which still exceeded the health service's ability to cope, implying that the measures in place at that time were insufficient to stop the health service being overwhelmed. A third chart, named the 'Actual plan', shows the rate at which coronavirus spreads being suppressed, with the blue line annotated 'lockdown to (lower) rate = delay'. Under a section titled 'public health' is written '3 weeks min - no non-essential movement'

Mr Cummings had said the PM was warned: 'The NHS is going to be smashed in weeks, really we've got days to act'

Mr Cummings added to an extensive series of tweets today, writing alongside the image: 'As shown to PM, his study, Sat morning, 14/3, by Ben Warner/me: ''Current plan'' = disaster vs ''actual plan''. The PlanB whiteboard is just behind. ''The official plan is a disaster, we need Plan B''. '

Mr Johnson announced a lockdown beginning on March 23.

Just one day before the image was allegedly presented to the PM, the second most senior civil servant at the Cabinet Office, Helen MacNamara, had told Mr Cummings 'I think we are absolutely f***ed' and warned that 'thousands' of people could die, according to what Mr Cummings told MPs yesterday.

Mr Johnson announced a lockdown beginning on March 2

Mr Cummings has claimed that he warned the PM on March 12 that there were 'big problems coming' if self-isolation measures were not announced immediately.

He said he told Boris Johnson: 'We've got big problems coming. The Cabinet Office is terrifyingly sh**. No plans, totally behind the pace, we must announce today, not next week. We must force the pace. We're looking at 100,000 to 500,000 deaths between optimistic and pessimistic scenarios.'

But he said on that day rather than focusing on Covid the Government was consumed with a potential bombing campaign in the Middle East at the request of Mr Trump and a 'trivial' story in the Times newspaper about Mr Johnson, his fiancee Carrie Symonds and their dog.

He said: 'And then to add to  it sounds so surreal couldn't possibly be true  that day, the Times had run a huge story about the Prime Minister and his girlfriend and their dog.

'The Prime Minister's girlfriend was going completely crackers about this story and demanding that the press office deal with that.

'So we had this sort of completely insane situation in which part of the building was saying are we going to bomb Iraq? Part of the building was arguing about whether or not we're going to do quarantine or not do quarantine, the Prime Minister has his girlfriend going crackers about something completely trivial.'

The PM's former top advisor said that Dr Ben Warner (pictured) told Boris Johnson in March 2020 the NHS would be 'smashed in weeks if not days' because SAGE had got it 'all completely wrong' having predicted the tipping point would be June

MPs were told: 'It was like a scene from Independence Day with Jeff Goldblum saying the aliens are here and your whole plan is broken and you need a new plan. With Ben Warner in the Jeff Goldblum role'

Mr Cummings said on the evening of March 13 the second most senior civil servant at the Cabinet Office, Helen MacNamara, came in and relayed to him the view of another senior official that 'there is no plan' and 'we're in huge trouble'.

Mr Cummings said she told him: 'I think we are absolutely f*****' and warned that 'thousands' of people could die.

However, at around the same time there were still meetings going on with officials suggesting people should be advised to have 'chicken pox parties' to spread the virus more quickly.

Even in the first half of March Mr Johnson was still of the view that the threat to the economy was more significant than the public health risk.

Mr Cummings said it was like something out of disaster movie Independence Day, where star Jeff Goldblum says the plan had failed and there needs to be a new one.
With less than a month to go before the Democratic primary that likely will decide the next New York City mayor, candidate Dianne Morales is facing controversy from within her own campaign.

Morales, arguably the most left-leaning candidate in the field, is a supporter of the 'Defund the Police' movement.

On her campaign website, she pledges a $3 billion reallocation of the NYPD's budget toward safety measures that 'address crises with dignity and empower communities to create solutions that decrease the likelihood of NYPD intervention.'

But on Thursday morning, her policy ideas were overshadowed by a group called Mayorales Union. It pledged to unionize workers on Morales' campaign staff.

The unionization call appeared to come after numerous allegations of problems within the campaign.

Dianne Morales is facing problems in her NYC mayoral campaign with less than a month left

A group of campaign staff members have stated that they plan to create a staff union

The group released a statement on behalf of campaign staff, saying, 'As staff of Dianne Moraless 2021 mayoral campaign, we have thrown our hearts into a mission-driven organization built on ideals of dignity, care, and solidarity. We come to you with our road to unionization.'

The statement discusses how campaign staff members were drawn to Morales' ideas 'to universally empower communities to collectively decide for themselves what dignity, care, and solidarity mean in practice.'

But it goes on to detail the pressure that comes with political campaigns and makes strong allegations.

'Many staff have experienced racial aggressions, sexual harassment, exploitation, and manipulation -- grave violations that contradict the very equity our campaign promotes,' the statement reads.

It's not clear who specifically the group is blaming. No allegations have been made against Morales herself.

Morales released this statement on Wednesday, announcing the exit of three staff members

'This pattern of marginalization was particularly pronounced in the field, where organizers, particularly Black and brown organizers, were tasked with promoting Dianne Morales but deprived of the resources and support needed to do so.

'Furthermore, the boundary between volunteer and employee was often disrespected particularly with young organizers.'

Mayorales said that Morales' 'zero-tolerance stance against sexual abuse and harassment' was not formalized.

The group states that black women who came forward with problems were ignored and cited dysfunction within the campaign.

Morales, who is arguably the most left-leaning candidate left in the field, is a supporter of the 'Defund the Police' movement

On her campaign website, she pledges a $3 billion reallocation of the NYPD's budget towards safety measures that 'address crises with dignity and empower communities to create solutions that decrease the likelihood of NYPD intervention'

Earlier this week, the staff went on to hold an emergency meeting and met with Morales about the issues on the campaign.

'We were heartened by her response,' the statement says of Morales. 'She listened patiently to a conference room full of individuals who have pinned their hopes on her campaign, giving us room to share emotions that were intense and complicated.'

The unionization statement 'requested democratically decided leadership and structure and fair compensation' and referred to staffing changes made earlier this week.

Gothamist reports that one of the staff members who left the campaign was campaign manager Whitney Hu. She later announced the decision to leave as one of her 'own accord.' The New York Post also identified senior staffers Ramses Duke and Amanda Van Kesell as no longer with the campaign.

But it's not immediately clear if these are the changes the statement was referencing.

It also stated that Morales voluntarily supports the union and that it has the backing of a majority of the staff.

After DailyMail.com reached out to the Morales campaign for comment, she released this statement, confirming sexual harassment claims were made against two staff members:

'I am grateful my staff bravely came forward to discuss allegations related to racially based biases and sexual harassment claims at the hands of two staff members and we decided to make the swift decision to remove those staff. Although staff changes are common on campaigns, it is never easy when it happens. Today, we made further adjustments to our team which was difficult but necessary.'

Her statement was released on Thursday, implying that further changes were made after the staffing changes earlier in the week.

Morales went on to confirm her support for the union, calling New York City a 'union town.'

'In the same pre-scheduled staff meeting on Monday, my staff informed me they wanted to unionize. I immediately told them they had my support. As the first and only Afro-Latina to run for Mayor of NYC, a union town, having my campaign staff push for this much needed transformation makes me proud. While some campaigns would shy away from this change, I embrace it.

According to the statement from the Mayorales Union, Morales supports unionization

Some of Morales' other campaign stances include to decriminalize drug use and sex work, as well as to eliminate bail

'When I announced, I said I wanted to run a transformational campaign and that is exactly what we are co-creating,' Morales continued. 'While these conversations have been difficult, they have challenged not just me, but every campaign currently in progress to reconsider unionizing as a campaign standard moving forward. It is truly what my campaign is about and I applaud my team for bringing forward the union.'

'Our campaign is like our City, full of resilient change makers, but it is also imperfect and in need of honest dialogue. By making these changes, it is my hope and responsibility to guide our team through the last stretch of this race in a way that espouses our values of honesty, transparency and loving disruption,' she concluded.

The call for unionization came within 24 hours of Morales announcing the departure of three staff members, later reported to be Hu, Van Kessell, and Duke.

'Traditional political spaces have long disenfranchised Black and Brown people on campaigns,' Morales wrote in a statement on Wednesday morning.

'Our campaign works to intentionally center the voices of those who are excluded from politics and we acknowledge that mistakes have been made in our attempts to do this.

Polls show Morales lagging behind the field, with a new PIX11 News/Emerson College poll putting her in sixth place with 7 percent of the vote

Morales went on to detail the same meeting the campaign staff referenced in its own statement.

'That process began last night when I sat with campaign staff  many of whom I consider family  for hours to listen to concerns on a myriad of issues. During this meeting, I accepted accountability in my role as the head of this campaign that allowed for this harm to occur.

'As part of this restoration process, one senior staff member has departed and two other campaign staff are no longer active.'

Morales did not name the staffers at the center of the abuse and harassment claims in her most recent statement.

Prior to any exits, a social media post suggested white staffers were making more money than POC staffers.

A person connected to the campaign told Gothamist that it had become a 'toxic environment' and that problems began when the team expanded in recent weeks.

Hu reportedly raised concerns to Morales on Monday and threatened to quit if changes weren't made to the field operations team.

POLITICO reports that Morales did not fire the staff in question, leading to Hu's resignation.

On her way out, Hu ultimately urged staff to unionize due to perceived problems with wages, workplace treatment and a lack of health care.

A campaign spokesperson told the Post, 'Whitney Hu resigned amid conversations regarding her own treatment of staff.'

One campaign staffer recently resigned because it 'no longer aligns' with her values

Former campaign manager Whitney Hu released a statement about her own resignation

She added, 'It was a mutual understanding that Rames Duke and Amanda Van Kessel, both senior members of the field team, could no longer be on the campaign.'

Hu later took to social media to release a statement of her own, where she said she would not 'continue on the campaign until harmful actors were removed.'

She also said she was 'proud of the team, especially the black women, who are holding this movement accountable.'

Morales is a supporter of the 'Defund the Police' movement, which has been facing obstacles lately, with many cities beginning to reverse proposed budget cuts and even increase funding to police departments.

Out of the nation's 20 largest police departments, city leaders have already submitted next year's budget proposals for 12, and nine of those request funding increases ranging from 1 to 6 percent, according to the Wall Street Journal.

In New York, elected leaders have seen shootings soar and seemingly random attacks on strangers regularly make headlines.

So far, shooting incidents in the city are up 82 percent from last year, and murders are up 22 percent from last year and 45 percent from 2019 levels.

In total in 2021, there have been 32,695 major crimes reported. There have been nearly 400 more major crimes reported this week in New York than there were in the same week last year - a 30 percent surge.

'We have a major crime problem in New York City,' Governor Andrew Cuomo said at a press conference on Wednesday.

'New Yorkers don't feel safe and they don't feel safe because the crime rate is up. It's not that they are being neurotic or overly sensitive - they are right,' Cuomo said.

In a swipe at his political nemesis, de Blasio, the governor said defunding the police was not the correct solution.

'Until you restore the trust and make the reforms necessary, we're going to have this problem -- defund the police is not the answer. It basically means abolish the police,' he said.

Polls show Morales lagging behind the field, with a new PIX11 News/Emerson College poll putting her in sixth place with 7 percent of the vote.

Kathryn Garcia ranks first in the poll at 21 percent, followed by Eric Adams at 20 percent and Andrew Yang polling at 16 percent.

If Morales pulls out a victory in the June 22 primary, she would be on her way to becoming the first black female mayor of New York City.
Montana's top prosecutor has banned critical race theory from the state's public schools, joining a handful of Republican-led states rejecting the antiracism academic movement.

Republican Attorney General Austin Knudsen issued a binding opinion on Thursday that labeled critical race theory and some antiracism programs taught in schools as 'discriminatory' and said they violate federal and state law, the Associated Press reported.

Knudsen's decision came after Republican Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen requested the AG to weigh in on the issue earlier this month.



Montana joins the list of Republican-led states that have banned critical race theory in public schools. States which have banned it are pictured in red, those in the process are in purple

Republican Attorney General Austin Knudsen (pictured) issued an opinion on Thursday labeling critical race theory and some antiracism programs taught in schools as 'discriminatory'

Knudsen's decision came after Republican Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen (pictured) requested the AG to weigh in on the issue earlier this month

'Committing racial discrimination in the name of ending racial discrimination is both illogical and illegal,' Knudsen said in a statement. 'Montana law does not tolerate schools, other government entities, or employers implementing CRT and antiracist programming in a way that treats individuals differently on the basis of race that creates a racially hostile environment.'

Montana joins several other states - including Tennessee, Idaho and Oklahoma - in banning critical race theory in public schools. Many others, including Texas, New Hampshire and Arizona are in the process of doing so, with their proposed legislation widely expected to be passed.

Republicans say the academic movement is an attempt to pit racial groups against each other and teach that certain groups are responsible for injustices of the past.

They say children should not be made to feel 'racially inferior,' from a young age.

But supporter of critical race theory say it presents an essential and important overview of how race and racism pervades so many areas of American society, and continues to cause harm to people from minority backgrounds.

The theory has sparked a fierce nationwide debate in the wake of the Black Lives Matter protests around the country over the last year and the introduction of the 1619 Project.

The New York Times Magazine published the 1619 project in August 2019.

The project was made up of a collection of essays, photo essays, short fiction pieces and poems aimed to 'reframe' American history based on the impact of slaves brought to the US.

It was published to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the arrival of enslaved Africans in the English colonies and argued that the nation's birth was not 1776 with independence from the British crown, but in August 1619 with the arrival of a cargo ship of 20 to 30 enslaved Africans at Point Comfort in the colony of Virginia, which inaugurated the system of slavery.

However, the project is debated among historians for its factual accuracy, including the timeline of when slaves arrived to the U.S. and where exactly they first arrived.

Opponents to critical race theory claim it indoctrinates children into thinking that white people are inherently racist or sexist and argues it reduces people to the categories of 'privileged' or 'oppressed' based on their skin color.

A handful of other states  including North Carolina, Texas, Arizona, Louisiana, Iowa, Missouri, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and West Virginia  are currently debating, or are in the process of approving, bills banning the academic movement.

While there is currently no legislation in the works in Florida and South Dakota, the governors of those states have publicly declared they oppose critical race theory.

In September 2020, former president Donald Trump ordered federal agencies to stop funding training on topics including 'critical race theory' and 'white privilege' with taxpayer dollars.

President Joe Biden revoked the order.

Knudsen's binding opinion states that certain activities that fall under the umbrella of critical race theory teaching violate the U.S. and state constitutions.

The activities include grading students differently based on race, forcing people to admit privilege or reflect on their racial identities, assigning fault, blame or bias to a race, and offering training or assignments that force students or employees to support concepts such as racial privilege, AP reported.

Schools and government and public workplaces in Montana that offer critical race theory training or activities could lose state funding and could be liable for damages from lawsuits, AP reported.

Knudsen's office also encouraged students and parents who believe they experience illegal discrimination under critical race theory programming to sue their schools directly or file complains with the U.S. Department of Education.
Christine Wormuth was confirmed unanimously by the Senate Thursday becoming the first female secretary of the Army.

The confirmation came after a 'procedural hiccup' that saw her confirmed and then unconfirmed only to be reconfirmed in under 24 hours.

Sen. Kevin Cramer, a North Dakota Republican, had a hold on Wormuth's nomination over a pay issue for a soldier and hadn't lifted it the first time she was confirmed.

Christine Wormuth made history as the first woman ever to be confirmed by the US Senate as Secretary of the Army - only to have the upper chamber reverse itself and then reverse itself again, confirming her Thursday

Defense News reported that Sen. Kevin Cramer (pictured) had a hold on Wormuth's nomination during the first vote, which prompted the re-do

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, asked the Senate to rescind Wormuth's nomination hours after it was approved by unanimous consent.

'As in executive session, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate vitiate the previous action on Executive Calendar 135,' Schumer said on the Senate floor.

The Senate adjourned for the night after Schumer received unanimous consent to 'vitiate' - or rescind - Wormuth's confirmation.

By Thursday, Cramer had lifted the hold after Wormuth assured the Republican that the missing $50,000 to the unnamed Army major would get fixed, Defense News reported.

Politico quoted a Senate Armed Services Committee aide attributing it to a 'mix-up on the floor.'

In a strange twist, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, the Democrat from New York, asked the Senate to rescind Wormuth's nomination hours after it was approved by unanimous consent

Earlier on Wednesday evening, Wormuth tweeted that she was 'so honored to be confirmed as Secretary of the Army!'

'Serving in this role is a tremendous privilege and responsibility!'

That tweet has since been deleted. Schumer also deleted a tweet congratulating Wormuth.

DailyMail.com sought comment from Wormuth.

Wormuth sailed through her nomination hearings before the Senate Armed Services Committee earlier this month.

She will be one of the more powerful officials in a defense establishment long dominated by men, and she would be the second woman named to a top Pentagon role by Biden.

According to Roll Call correspondent Andrew Clevenger, the move 'looks more like a procedural hiccup than a threat to her historic confirmation.'

The deputy secretary of defense is Kathleen Hicks.

Wormuth's most recent job was as director of the International Security and Defense Policy Center at the RAND Corp., a federally funded think tank.

But prior to that she served as the undersecretary of defense for policy and the senior director for defense policy at the NSC during the Obama administration and held other Defense Department positions.

She also previously served as principal deputy assistant secretary for homeland defense.

Wormuth addressed a wide array of issues at the May 13 hearing, but many of the questions focused on personnel and command climate problems that have plagued the service.

The Army's handling of sexual assaults and other violence has come under significant scrutiny in the aftermath of a series of crimes, including murders and suicides last year at Fort Hood, Texas.

Last month, the Army said it took disciplinary action against 21 officers and non-commissioned officers at Fort Hood in connection with the 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, were the latest Army moves in response to Guillen's disappearance and death.

A review panel found that military leaders at the post were not adequately dealing with high rates of sexual assault and harassment and were utterly neglecting the sexual assault prevention program.

Wormuth said she was 'angry and frustrated' by the failures at Fort Hood.

And she said the Army needs to 'put quite a bit of focus' on improving the command climate all the way down to the lower levels so that younger soldiers feel safe and able to make complaints if needed.

Earlier on Wednesday evening, Wormuth tweeted that she was 'so honored to be confirmed as Secretary of the Army!' 'Serving in this role is a tremendous privilege and responsibility!' That tweet has since been deleted. Schumer also deleted a tweet congratulating Wormuth. DailyMail.com has also sought comment from Wormuth

She added that she would want to see what other training could be done, and not just 'more Power Point slides that people go to mental screen saver on.'

One of those could be better bystander training for soldiers so they know how and when to step in when they see something happening.

Wormouth also said that assessment teams set up by the Army leadership already may be a way to help get at the problem.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's first directive after he took office in January ordered senior leaders to look into their sexual assault prevention programs, and he created an independent panel to study the matter.

That panel has recommended that decisions to prosecute service members for sexual assault be made by independent authorities, not commanders, a major change that has been resisted by the military.

In other comments, she said she is aware of the increased demands on the Army National Guard over the past year, as the citizen soldiers responded to civil unrest, COVID-19 testing and vaccination needs, natural disasters and other deployments.
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San Jose shooter Samuel Cassidy was held by U.S. Customs officers returning from the Philippines in 2016

The San Jose shooter was held by officials over a notebook detailing his hatred of his workplace - five years before gunning down nine of his colleagues at a California rail yard, according to a report Thursday.

Samuel Cassidy was held by U.S. Customs officers returning from the Philippines in 2016, The Wall Street Journal reports. A memo says Cassidy possessed 'books about terrorism and fear and manifestos as well as a black memo book filled with lots of notes about how he hates the VTA'.

The VTA is the Valley Transportation Authority where maintenance worker Cassidy had been employed since at least 2012 and carried out his assault on Wednesday. It is not clear why or how long Cassidy was held by customs officers or why he was eventually allowed to go free.

The memo, which was circulated in the Department of Homeland Security following the shooting, adds: 'When asked if he had problems with anybody at work, he stated 'no'.'

It is also not known if the information was shared with police or the VTA at the time. There has been no comment relating directly to the memo from the VTA, law enforcement or the DHS.

Investigators have offered no immediate word on a possible motive but Cassidy's ex-wife said he had talked about killing people at work more than a decade ago. 'I never believed him, and it never happened. Until now,' a tearful Cecilia Nelms said in an interview Wednesday.

Nelms, who was married to Cassidy for 10 years until 2005, said he used to come home from work resentful and angry over what he perceived as unfair assignments. 'He could dwell on things,' she said. The two hadn't been in touch for about 13 years, she said.

Santa Clara County Sheriff Laurie Smith confirmed Cassidy had two semi-automatic handguns and 11 loaded magazines. The 9 mm handguns he had appear to be legal, Smith said, though his 11 high-capacity magazines  each with 12 rounds  are prohibited in California. Authorities do not yet know how he obtained the weaponry.

She said he targeted specific people in the shooting, telling some: 'I'm not going to shoot you.'

The Santa Clara County Office of the Medical Examiner-Coroner identified the victims as Paul Delacruz Megia, 42; Adrian Balleza, 29; Jose Dejesus Hernandez, 35; Timothy Michael Romo, 49; Michael Joseph Rudometkin, 40; Abdolvahab Alaghmandan, 63; Lars Kepler Lane, 63 and Taptejdeep Singh, 36.

Chilling surveillance video surfaced of Samuel Cassidy, 57, leaving his home shortly before the massacre. He was held by officials over a notebook detailing his hatred of the workplace - five years before gunning down nine of his colleagues at a California rail yard, according to a report Thursday

The gunman - identified as Samuel Cassidy, left, - opened fire at the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority light rail yard on Wednesday morning. His ex wife Cecilia Nelms, right, said he had talked about killing people at work more than a decade ago

Sheriff Smith said it appears Cassidy also set timers to burn his house down to coincide with opening fire at rail depot.

She told the Today show: 'The call came out with the shots fired at 6:34 in the morning and then the fire was reported at 6:37. What we're operating under now...is that he set some kind of a device to go off at a certain time, probably to coincide with the shooting.'

Sheriff Smith also revealed how Cassidy had picked out his intended victims before firing 39 shots. She said: 'It appears to us at this point that he said to one of the people there: 'I'm not going to shoot you'. And then he shot other people. So I imagine there was some kind of thought on who he wanted to shoot.'

Employee Kirk Bertolet said: 'He was targeting certain people. He walked by other people. He let other people live as he gunned down other people.'

San Jose's Valley Transport Authority have shared this moving tribute to the nine people killed at its light rail depot on Wednesday

Singh is said to have died helping others to escape, his family said.





His uncle, Sakhwant Dhillon, said: 'He told people, 'be careful, hide.' He was running around the building to save others' lives.'





Singh had worked as a light rail train driver for eight or nine years and had a wife, two small children and many family members, said his cousin, Bagga Singh.





'We heard that he chose the people to shoot, but I dont know why they choose him because he has nothing to do with him,' he said.

Santa Clara County Sheriff Laurie Smith confirmed Cassidy had two semi-automatic handguns and 11 loaded magazines. She told the Today show it appears Cassidy set timers to burn his house down to coincide with opening fire at rail depot

Damage from a fire at the house of the suspect of a shooting is pictured. The blaze was first reported around the same time Samuel Cassidy began shooting, leading to speculation he used a timed device to set his home alight

Emergency responders respond to a fire at the house of the suspect of a shooting, since named as Samuel Cassidy, 57

Sheriff Smith added: 'We know that the suspect entered the facility and began shooting. And there were deceased in two separate buildings which we believe he went from building to building.

'Found in the scene of the shooting, our dogs alerted on probably what is his locker. And in it was materials for bombs, detonator cords, the precursors to an explosive.

'And I think they also found at least rounds at the house too.'

'When our deputies went through the door, initially he was still firing rounds. When our deputy saw him, he took his life,' Smith had earlier told reporters.

The sheriff's office is next door to the rail yard, which serves the county of more than 1 million people in the heart of the Silicon Valley.

Samuel Cassidy, 57, opened fire shortly before 7am after he calmly set off from his home carrying a duffel bag which police believe contained the gun used in the attack. His home is around ten minutes drive away

Chilling footage shows maintenance worker Cassidy calmly setting off from his home carrying a duffel bag which police believe contained the gun used in the attack.

Sources said Cassidy shot virtually everyone on the morning shift, including some he had worked with for years.

It was the 15th mass killing in the nation this year, all of them shootings that have claimed at least four lives each for a total of 86 deaths, according to a database compiled by The Associated Press, USA Today and Northeastern University.

At the White House, President Joe Biden ordered flags to be flown at half-staff and urged Congress to act on legislation to curb gun violence.

'Every life that is taken by a bullet pierces the soul of our nation. We can, and we must, do more,' Biden said in a statement.

Gov. Gavin Newsom visited the site and then spoke emotionally about the country's latest mass killing.

'Theres a numbness some of us are feeling about this. Theres a sameness to this,' he said. 'It begs the damn question of what the hell is going on in the United States of America?'

The shooting took place in two buildings and killed employees who had been bus and light rail operators, mechanics, linemen and an assistant superintendent over the course of their careers. One had worked for the agency since 1999.

Another man wounded in the attack was in critical condition at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, spokesperson Joy Alexiou said.

Lars Lane, 63, was shot dead by co-worker Cassidy at the rail yard shortly before 7am. Lane was described as a loving 'husband, brother, father and grandfather' by relatives

Victim Taptejdeep Singh, 36, was married father of two young children, according to ABC 7

Michael Rudometikin was also killed in the mass shooting at VTA on Wednesday morning was one of the eight people killed by co-worker Samuel Cassidy at the VTA rail yard on Wednesday morning

Paul Delacruz Megia is pictured in a social media photo. The 42-year-old dad was described as a 'ray of sunshine'

Jose Dejesus Hernande, 35, (left) and Adrian Balleza, 29, (right) were also killed in Wednesday's rail yard massacre

'Heroic' railyard worker told colleagues to hide in an office and then ran through the building to warn others before he was gunned down in a stairwell, family say Taptejdeep Singh, 36, is said to have died helping others to escape, his family have said. His uncle, Sakhwant Dhillon, said: 'He told people, 'be careful, hide.' He was running around the building to save others' lives.' Singh's brother, Bagga, added: 'He put a lady in a control room to hide. He saved her and rushed down the stairway. 'He should have saved his life, too. We lost a good person.' Singh had worked as a light rail train driver for eight or nine years and had a wife, two small children and many family members, said his cousin, Bagga Singh. 'We heard that he chose the people to shoot, but I dont know why they choose him because he has nothing to do with him,' he said. Dhillon added: 'He was a good person. He helped everybody.' Singh's family were pictured devastated at the scene Wednesday evening. His brother-in-law, P.J. Bath told The Mercury News he came into contact with the shooter in a stairwell: 'He just happened to be in the way, I guess.' Advertisement

San Jose City Councilman Raul Peralez said victim Rudometkin was a close friend.

'There are no words to describe the heartache we are feeling right now, especially for his family,' he wrote on Facebook. 'Eight families are feeling this same sense of loss tonight and our entire community is mourning as well.'

A friend of Paul Delacruz Megia similarly paid tribute on Facebook, describing him 'as ray of sunshine'.

'My heart is broken for your kids and family,' the pal wrote of the 42-year-old dad.

Meanwhile, victim Lars Lane was described as a loving 'husband, brother, father and grandfather' by relatives who spoke with FOX 40.

His brother, Edward Lane, told the publication he was devastated by the 'horrible' situation.

In court documents, one ex-girlfriend described Cassidy as volatile and violent, with major mood swings because of bipolar disorder that became worse when he drank heavily.

Several times while he was drunk, Cassidy forced himself on her sexually despite her refusals, pinning her arms with his body weight, the woman alleged in a 2009 sworn statement filed after Cassidy had sought a restraining order against her. The documents were obtained by The San Francisco Chronicle.

Cassidy's father James Cassidy, 88, answered the phone to DailyMail.com Wednesday and said: 'I'm sorry, I don't know what he might have been going through.'

He told The Daily Beast his son 'seemed completely himself' before the shooting, adding: 'He didn't talk about his job or politics. I just found out he was dead and his house on fire and all that a minute ago.'

Cesar Chavez Quinteros, a friend of Cassidy, told DailyMail.com that Cassidy suffered from depression and was on medication.

'I know he had some issues with depression and was on meds,' Quinteros said. 'Not sure if there were other issues other than some inner demons like many of us have. It's sad to hear they finally got the best of him.

'I can only relate his actions today on some sort of mental illness. He was not at all like he will be portrayed in the following days due to today's events.'

'I don't have much to say other than I'm just in complete shock,' he said. 'During the time that I knew him I never saw any signs in Sam doing something like this. He was a very nice man to those closer to him, polite and kept to himself. He was very smart, loved reading, especially Stephen King books.'

Emergency personnel respond to a shooting at a Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) facility on Wednesday

Tactical law enforcement officers move through the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) light-rail yard where a mass shooting occurred Wednesday

San Jose Bomb Squad technician and his team meet before entering the scene of the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority mass shooting

Cassidy had worked for Valley Transportation Authority since at least 2012, according to the public payroll and pension database Transparent California, first as a mechanic from 2012 to 2014, then as someone who maintained substations.

Officials also were continuing to investigate the house fire. Public records show Cassidy owned the two-story home where firefighters responded after being notified by a passerby.

Law enforcement officers cordoned off the area near the home and went in and out Wednesday.

American flags are flown at half-staff in response to the San Jose mass shooting, at the base of the Washington Monument on the National Mall on Thursday

People take part in a vigil held by the Interfaith Community following the mass shooting

Doug Suh, who lives across the street, told The Mercury News in San Jose that Cassidy seemed 'strange' and that he never saw anyone visit.

'Id say hello, and hed just look at me without saying anything,' Suh said. Once, Cassidy yelled at him to stay away as he was backing up his car. 'After that, I never talked to him again.'

Wednesdays attack was the deadliest shooting in the San Francisco Bay Area since 1993, when a gunman attacked law offices in San Franciscos Financial District, killing eight people before taking his own life.

It also was Santa Clara Countys second mass shooting in less than two years. A gunman killed three people and then himself at a popular garlic festival in Gilroy in July 2019.
Texas's historic winter storm may have killed up to 702 people - more than four times the final death toll shared by Lone Star State officials, a new analysis found.

Using excess mortality data from the Centers for Disease Control, researchers were able to ascertain that 702 people died from causes likely related to the storm, according to an analysis by Buzzfeed News. The state's final official tally was 151.

The analysis looks at people who had underlying conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and kidney problems, that may have been fatally exacerbated by the extreme cold and loss of power.

Many of those who died suffered fatal health emergencies as a result of the freezing weather, with others fatally weakened after vital medical equipment went dark during power cuts, which lasted for days for many Texans.

Between Feb. 13 and Feb. 17, Winter Storm Uri plunged a wide swath of the United States, from Texas right up to the New England region, into a deep cold spell. Dallas saw temperatures below zero for the first time since 1930 and cold records were set in a number of other cities across the state.

An estimated 3.5 million Texans lost power after a lack of winter-proofing on much of the state's electricity infrastructure - which is independent from the rest of the US - caused its power grid to collapse. According to a University of Houston study, electricity was out for an average of 42 hours.

Between 426 and 978 more people died than expected during the week ending in Feb. 20, according to the CDC excess mortality data, meaning even the most conservative estimates would place the death toll from the storm three times higher than the state's tally.

This graph shows the total deaths in Texas for the week of Storm Uri, as well as the same week a year previously. An estimated 702 of those extra fatalities have been attributed to the storm

Another graph showing how deaths from natural causes were far higher on the week of Storm Uri than on the same week a year previously. COVID-19 fatalities have been taken out

Neighbors push a car out of a snowy driveway in Austin on February 15. Winter storm Uri caused an estimated 702 deaths - almost five times the official figure, a new analysis claims

Hotel workers shovel ice outside the SureStay Plus Hotel in Benbrook on February 16. Many of those feared to have been killed by the storm suffered underlying health conditions which were fatally exacerbated by cold weather and power cuts, Buzzfeed News claims

A pickup struggles to gain traction in Round Rock, Texas, on February 17. Winter Storm Uri was the worst in close to a century, causing mass power blackouts across Texas

Winter Storm Uri brought historically low temperatures to Texas, and left two-thirds of the state's residents without power for days

The state's toll is based on the number of confirmed deaths from hypothermia, motor vehicle accidents, carbon monoxide poisoning, falls and fire. However, according to the analysis, that official count includes few people who had pre-existing medical conditions

Experts believe hundreds of such patients were killed by Uri, with medical examiners who did not realize putting other causes on their death certificates. Two extra deaths were attributed to Uri after Buzzfeed contacted medical examiners with evidence to back up their claims.

Additionally, the official figures rely on death counts submitted from officials in individual counties. Only about a dozen of the state's 254 counties have their own medical examiner's office, however, leaving responsibility of determining an individual's cause of death up to local elected officials.

Even in areas with a medical examiner, connecting deaths to the storm has been a challenge, according to the analysis. Hypothermia, for example, is 'notoriously difficult to diagnose,' Hannah Jarvis, assistant medical examiner at the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences told Buzzfeed.

To illustrate the challenges of determining an accurate cause of death in such a catastrophe, the outlet also looked at two deaths in which medical examiners, after some consideration, changed the cause, and linked them to the storm.

One, an 89-year-old woman, was initially believed to have died from heart failure, but after it was discovered that the oxygen machine she needed to breathe had gone offline for 18 hours, her death was reclassified as being the result of the storm.

In another case, a 68-year-old woman's collapsed in her home, but even after EMTs restarted her heart, she was admitted to the hospital with a body temperature indicative of hypothermia.

The Bryant family huddled in their north Texas home on Feb. 15. The new analysis indicates that a number of people likely died from factors related to the storm that previously went unaccounted for

Temperatures dropped below zero in some parts of the state. Studies show that the cold mixed with power outages can lead to increased instances of heart failure in people with prexisting conditions

Studies have also shown increased instances of deaths related to cardiovascular disease during winter storms, particularly if the electricity fails. According to the CDC figures, the week of Feb. 20 in Texas saw an uptick of more than 200 in deaths from heart disease.

Despite the higher number of deaths from cardiovascular disease, hospitals did not see an increase in the number of related visits, suggesting that people either died before calling for help, or with ambulances struggling, couldn't get to a hospital in time to be saved.

The loss of power, it would appear, was a major factor in the increased number of deaths. Neighboring states that did not experience widespread outages did not have a similar surge in excess deaths, according to Buzzfeed.

The inaccurate accounting of the storm's deaths in Texas has far-reaching consequences. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has an assistance program to help reimburse families for funeral expenses, but the deadline to apply was May 20.

Additionally, the full toll may be crucial for preventing such a disaster again.

'We need to know whos most at risk,' Joan Casey, an environmental epidemiologist at Columbia University told Buzzfeed. 'Right now were missing big chunks of data and a lot of people are getting missed out of this accounting.'
Rudy Giuliani stepped out with Maria Ryan - his rumored 56-year-old girlfriend - in Manhattan Thursday as his lawyers tried to head off a lawsuit accusing him of conspiring with Donald Trump to incite the deadly invasion of the U.S. Capitol.

The 76-year-old and his close friend were spotted leaving his apartment building on the Upper East Side with a third man.

The pair then hailed a taxi and headed north.

Ryan stepped down as chief executive of a New Hampshire hospital in December and has reportedly been dating Trump's personal lawyer since 2018.

Giuliani was pictured with Ryan at a White House dinner hosted by President Trump in 2019.

He has previously denied allegations that he had an affair with Ryan while still married to his third wife Judy Giuliani.

They were seen together as his lawyers try to end a lawsuit brought by 11 Democrats in Washington accusing him of violating the federal Ku Klux Klan Act on Jan. 6 by inciting a mob of Trump supporters to attack the U.S. Capitol in an effort to prevent Congress confirming Joe Biden's election victory.

Rudy Giuliani was spotted leaving his apartment Thursday with Dr Maria Ryan, his alleged girlfriend. They hailed a taxi and left together

Investigators in New York are probing whether Trump's personal lawyer should have registered as an agent of a foreign government for work he did in Ukraine. Giuliani also faces lawsuits in Washington, D.C., over his actions during the run-up to the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol

Giuliani was photographed with Ryan at a White House dinner in 2019 and the couple have reportedly been dating since 2018

In a new legal filing, his lawyer said Giuliani's comments during a rally that day were protected under the First Amendment.

And his accusers had failed to deliver evidence to support their allegation that Giuliani plotted with Trump and extremist groups such as the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers to trigger an insurrection, wrote attorney Joseph Sibley.

'This conspiracy theory is far more fantastical than any of the allegations of election fraud that plaintiffs claim incited the Capitol riot,' he added in a motion to dismiss the case.

'In their complaint, plaintiffs do nothing other than make the conclusory assertion that the defendants coordinated, and executed a common plan to engage in the conspiratorial conduct complained of.'

Their case lacks the 'who, what, where, when' needed to prove any 'meeting of the minds' occurred, he continued.

The former New York mayor was central to Trump's efforts to overturn the results of last year's election.

And he was one of the speakers at the Stop the Steal rally of Trump supporters that preceded the riot.

'Over the next 10 days, we get to see the machines that are crooked, the ballots that are fraudulent, and if we're wrong, we will be made fools of, he said.

'But if we're right, a lot of them will go to jail.

'So, let's have trial by combat.'

Giulani's lawyers in Washington asked a judge to dismiss a lawsuit claiming he conspired with former President Trump to incite a mob attack the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6

An explosion caused by a police munition is seen while supporters of U.S. President Donald Trump gather in front of the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, U.S., January 6, 2021.

That amounted to incitement to violence, according to the suit brought by Rep. Bennie Thompson and 10 House Democrats.

They accused Trump and Giuliani of launching a 'concerted campaign to misinform their supporters and the public, encouraging and promoting intimidation and violence in furtherance of their common plan to promote the re-election of Defendant Trump, even after the states had certified election results decisively showing he lost the election.'

But Giuliani's lawyer said the speech was clearly 'hyperbolic' and referred to a future courtroom clash rather than a literal trial by combat.

'No reasonable reader or listener would have perceived Giulianis speech as an instruction to march to the Capitol, violently breach the perimeter and enter the Capitol building, and then violently terrorize Congress into not engaging in the electoral certification,' he wrote.
Mali's ousted President and Prime Minister have been freed by the country's army after the pair resigned, a military representative said today.

Interim President Bah Ndaw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane were arrested and taken to a military base outside the capital on Monday, jeopardising an 18-month transition back to democracy after a coup last August.

International powers including the United States and military ally France, worried about worsening security in Mali and its neighbours, have condemned the arrests and threatened sanctions.

The two men resigned from their posts while in detention on Wednesday.

President Bah Ndaw (pictured) and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane were transported to a military compound in Kati outside the capital of Bamako on Monday

The pair resigned from their positions on Wednesday and were released by the military. Pictured: Prime Minister Moctar Ouane

The arrests were orchestrated by Vice President Assimi Goita, who led last year's coup that overthrew former President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita.

'They resigned, their release was scheduled, we have nothing against them,' said Goita aide Baba Cissa.

Ndaw and Ouane's whereabouts will be kept secret to protect their security, Cissa told Reuters. He declined to detail any plans for their replacement.

Goita ordered their arrest after a cabinet reshuffle in which two fellow coup leaders were sacked from their posts.

He has promised that next year's elections will go ahead. But on Thursday his legal advisor Youssouf Coulibaly suggested this commitment was not set in stone.

Army members stand guard as the Economic Community of West African States mediators delegation meet with Vice President Colonel Assimi Goita about the Mali crisis, in Bamako, Mali, May 26, 2021

'These 18 months are sacred to us and we will respect them. At the end of it, people will be able to say if they want to continue the transition, if they wish to go to the elections, or if they wish to continue the transition with new leaders,' he told Reuters.

This decision will be taken following consultations with interested parties, he said.

He added that Goita was currently in charge, but negotiations were ongoing about the appointment of a new government.

Mali's influential M5-RFP political coalition, which led anti-government protests ahead of last year's coup, has opposed the leadership of Ndaw and Ouane, but also said it would strongly oppose Goita's appointment as president.

The leadership question could exacerbate a security crisis in Mali's desert north, where militants linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State frequently capitalise on political uncertainty.

The militants have used Mali as a base from which to launch attacks across the Sahel in recent years. The arid region south of the Sahara saw an eight-fold increase in deadly attacks from 2015 to 2020. Over 5 million people have been displaced.

President Bah Ndaw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane were transported to a military compound in Kati outside the capital of Bamako

The EU military mission in Mali (EUTM), which briefly suspended its training program in 2020 in the aftermath of the August coup, said on Thursday that Malian soldiers will continue to receive training.

'We are following the situation closely and are not taking any abrupt decision,' Lieutenant-Colonel Pardo, the mission's spokesman said.

Kati's military base is notorious for ending the rule of Malian leaders. Last August, the military took President Keita to Kati and forced him to resign. A mutiny there helped topple his predecessor Amadou Toumani Toure in 2012.

Mali has been in turmoil ever since. Toure's departure triggered an ethnic Tuareg rebellion to seize the northern two-thirds of the country, which was hijacked by al Qaeda-linked jihadists.

French forces beat the insurgents back in 2013 but they have since regrouped and carry out regular attacks on the army and civilians. They have exported their methods to neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger where attacks have skyrocketed since 2017.

There had appeared to be some cause for optimism. The transitional government said last month that it would hold legislative and presidential elections in Feb. 2022 to restore a democratic government.

'It is regrettable, but not surprising: the arrangement agreed to after the coup last year was not perfect, but it was a compromise agreed to by all the major Malian and international stakeholders,' said J. Peter Pham, former U.S. special envoy for the Sahel, now with the Atlantic Council, told Reuters.
CPC trains officials with immersive education

Xinhua) 10:55, May 27, 2021

NANCHANG, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Among visitors to Jinggangshan, known as a "cradle" of the Chinese revolution, there were groups of people wearing identical dark outfits with red ties or pins.

They were not tourists, but trainees from various levels of Party schools, brought here for an "immersive" Party history education program.

In October 1927, Mao Zedong led a fledgling group of Chinese revolutionaries deep into the mountains around Jinggangshan in east China's Jiangxi Province, where they established the first rural revolutionary base of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

What happened in Jinggangshan during the revolution years is a crucial part of the Party's history, as well as distinctive elements on the training syllabus for Party officials.

One of the most prestigious Party schools in Jinggangshan is the China Executive Leadership Academy, Jinggangshan, which offers training to Party officials employed by the government, state-owned companies and the military, from entry-level recruits right up to senior officials.

It is one of three state-level executive leadership schools, among thousands of Party schools nationwide. For the past 16 years, more than 100,000 people have attended courses there.

Liu Yunlong, chief engineer of the No.1 company of the fifth bureau of China Railway, just attended a week-long program on ideals and beliefs at the academy in late April.

In the training program he attended, trainees visited the Jinggangshan Revolutionary Martyr Cemetery, Jinggangshan Revolutionary Museum and learned about the revolutionary history through lectures and a series of "on-site" courses at previous frontlines.

At 33, Liu was born into and lived through one of the most affluent and peaceful periods in China's history. As a member of the post-1980s generation, his youth would have been a far cry even from that of his parents, let alone the lives and struggles of the early revolutionaries.

The courses in Jinggangshan had a real and personal impact on Liu's understanding of the Party's history.

"Countless revolutionary ancestors carried out revolution under extremely difficult circumstances more than 90 years ago, perhaps some of them were at my age, or even younger," said Liu after the courses. "They fought on in spite of food, water and cloth shortages and the enemy's siege, because they had a firm belief in a final victory."

The session Liu took is just one of the thousands of programs offered by the academy, which is developing a series of new courses based on the revolution history.

"By studying history we could learn from our Party's glorious tradition and fine style of work, such as staying close contact with the mass, and always maintaining the true nature of our Party and always upholding the people-centered principle of our Party," said Ke Hua, vice president of the academy.

The academy is also paying special attention to strengthening young officials' political ability and other capabilities in terms of research and study, scientific decision-making, advancing in-depth reforms, emergency responses, engaging with the people, and implementing policies.

When trainees complete their programs, it is hoped that they will leave as better public servants and keep the revolutionary spirit wherever they go, according to the academy.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
Fourteen-year-old Aiden Fucci stabbed cheerleader Tristyn Bailey 114 times when he killed her and left the tip of his folding Buck knife lodged in her scalp, prosecutors said on Thursday as they charged him with first degree, pre-meditated murder .

Fucci was arrested on May 10, a day after 13 year-old Tristyn's body was found covered with knife wounds in St Johns, Florida.

Initially, he was charged with second degree murder as a juvenile, but prosecutors have spent weeks deliberating whether to upgrade that charge to first degree murder, and whether to process him as an adult.

On Thursday, the district attorney did just that, and filed paperwork charging Fucci as an adult with first degree pre-meditated murder. It is a capital felony that can carry the death penalty for anyone who committed the crime over the age of 15. He misses that prospective punishment by just a year.

State's Attorney R.J. Larizza gave harrowing details at a press conference afterwards, saying it was a 'sad' but easy decision given how violent the killing was and indicating that his office will seek life without parole.

He indicated that he they would seek life without parole but said Aiden will likely be able to appeal it, as part of a wider, ongoing effort to reduce sentences for juveniles, in Florida.

Prosecutors are yet to reveal whether there was any evidence of sexual assault, or if they have honed in on a motive. They did say that Fucci had been telling friends he planned to kill 'someone' in the woods and that Tristyn may simply have been in 'the wrong place at the wrong time'.

Larizza revealed that Aiden had told friends he was going to kill 'someone in the woods' before he murdered Tristyn, and said that it was 'disturbing' it wasn't taken seriously.

'You've heard that our victim Tristyn was stabbed - to say that it was horrific could be argued to be an understatement. The medical examiner completed an autopsy on our victim and identified confidently that there 114 stab wounds.

Scroll down for video

Aiden Fucci, the 14-year-old boy charged with the murder of Florida teenager Tristyn Bailey, 13, has been charged as an adult with first degree murder.

'At least 49 of those were to the hands, arms and head and were defensive.

'Premeditation can be inferred from just the sheer number of stab wounds that Tristyn Bailey had to suffer. Every time that arm went back, and every time that arm went down, that was premeditation and it happened 228 times.

'It's not just the fact she was stabbed 114 times - it's also information that we were able to glean from witnesses.

'The defendant made statements to several people that he intended to kill someone. He didn't say who that was but he indicated that he was going to kill someone by taking them into the woods and stabbing them which are certainly the facts of this case.'

'A knife was found in the pond, very close in proximity to our victim's body. The tip of the knife was located by the medical examiner in the scalp of our victim.'

Larizza said that he'd never dealt with such a violent crime in his entire career.

He said DNA evidence helped solidify his decision - Aiden's DNA was found on Tristyn and Tristyn's was found on Aiden's clothes and the knife.

'The juvenile system is geared for kids with drug issues maybe, or who commit non violent crime,' Larizza said as he explained his decision to charge Fucci as an adult.

'When you get kids that get tot his level of violence, the time and accountability is not there the adult system is where this case belongs.

'It was not a difficult decision to make. It's a sad decision and a sad state of affairs but it was clear to us after we looked at what happened that it was not only appropriate but it was really the only choice we could make.

Aiden posted this selfie on social media after being taken in for questioning. Sheriffs say the 'egregious' post shows he was proud of what he did

Tristyn's family reported her missing on Sunday at 10am. She was last seen at midnight by them, and cops say she was last accounted for at around 1.15am. By 6pm on Sunday, her body had been found

State's Attorney RJ Larizza said on Thursday it was a 'sad' but easy decision to charge Fucci as an adult and that they had no other choice given the severity of the crime

The teenagers were last seen walking near the Durbin Amenity Center in St John's at 1.45am. It's unclear what she was doing there or if Aiden was with her

'She was fighting for her life. It's just sad that we even have to talk about that,' Larizza said on Thursday.

He added there was no indication that Fucci suffers mental health problems or had been seeking treatment for it. He refused to say if Fucci had confessed to the killing.

'These kids, they're teenagers, they have their groups and hangout. It started out as just a few kids getting together and hanging out but it didn't end that way,' he said.

In Florida, first degree murder can become capital murder if prosecutors can prove that the murder was 'especially heinous, atrocious, or cruel', or if it was 'committed in a cold, calculated, and premeditated manner without any pretense of moral or legal justification.'

Sheriffs have been strong in their criticism of Fucci and unreserved in their public horror at the way in which Tristyn died.

She was stabbed a 'horrific' number of times in a 'cold blooded' act of murder, St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick said earlier this month.

Tristyn was found hours after she vanished, by a local resident who was out for a walk.

Surveillance camera footage is said to have shown the victim and Fucci walking towards the spot where her body was dumped on the evening of her disappearance, with Fucci walking back alone afterwards.

He had posted on Snapchat a selfie from the back of a cop car with the snide caption 'anyone seen Tristyn?'

That photo sparked an outcry, with St John's County Sheriff's Office later having to explain that Fucci had been taken in for questioning as a person of interest at the time, meaning he had not been arrested, cuffed or had his phone taken off him.

Larizza said on Thursday that the Snapchat post indicated how he had no remorse for his actions, with prosecutors now set to use it to strengthen their case against Fucci.

Fucci's next court appearance has not yet been scheduled.
Bill Cosby, 83, who has served three years in prison after he was convicted in 2018 of drugging and raping a young woman, was denied parole earlier this month

Bill Cosby has been denied parole after he refused to take part in a state-mandated rehabilitation program for convicted 'sexual predators' since doing so would be an admission of guilt.

Cosby was rejected for parole after failing to convince the state parole board of his suitability in a review conducted earlier this month, DailyMail.com has learned.

The disgraced actor was up for consideration after serving three years in Pennsylvanias SCI Phoenix following his 2018 conviction for drugging and sexually assaulting Andrea Constand in 2004.

Cosby, now 83, was sentenced to three to ten years for his crimes but has always maintained that he would rather live out his final days in prison than take part in the Sexually Violent Predator rehabilitation program which he sees as an acknowledgement of guilt.

Now, newly released documents seen by DailyMail.com show that his stubborn refusal to cooperate with authorities may well see him get his wish.

The image above shows Cosby taken out of the Montgomery County Courthouse to state prison in shackles after being sentenced to three to 10 years in prison for a sexual assault conviction at the Montgomery County Courthouse in Norristown, Pennsylvania on September 25, 2018

Cosby was sentenced after he was convicted of drugging and sexually assaulting Andrea Constand in 2004

Cosby was denied parole after he refused to take part in a state-mandated rehabilitation program for convicted 'sexual predators' since doing so would be an admission of guilt

Cosby appeared before the State of Pennsylvania Parole Board on May 11 and the denial was issued following that interview.

The board members told him, You need to participate in and complete additional institutional programs and stated that the reasons for their denial included the negative recommendation made by the Department of Corrections [and] your failure to develop a parole release plan.

This decision will be reviewed upon completion of programming as indicated by recent doc assessment.

They will reconsider his eligibility according to whether or not he has successfully completed a treatment program for sex offenders and violence prevention; whether he has received a favorable recommendation for parole from the Department of Corrections; and only if he has maintained a clear conduct record.

Reacting to the decision, Cosbys spokesman, Andrew Wyatt, said that it came as no surprise to his family, friends or legal team.

It was brought to our attention by Mr Cosby that over the past months, members of the PA State Parole Board had met with him and emphatically stated, If he did not participate in SVP (Sexually Violent Predator) courses that his parole would be denied, Wyatt said.

Mr Cosby has vehemently proclaimed his innocence and continues to deny all allegations made against him as being false, without the sheer evidence or any proof.

Cosbys first trial for drugging and sexually assaulting Constand, 48, ended in a mistrial when the jury found themselves hopelessly deadlocked due to one holdout juror.

But Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele and his team were successful a second time round and the actor once known as Americas Dad was found guilty on all counts in 2018.

He has always maintained his innocence, refusing to show a shred of remorse or to cooperate with the prison programs on which successful parole application depends.

Cosby poses with a mask under his chin in a photograph taken at State Correctional Institution (SCI) Phoenix in Skippack Township, Pennsylvania on September 4, 2020

As far as Cosby and his supporters are concerned he never had a fair shot at the trial that, his lawyers have argued, laid waste to the presumption of innocence by allowing five prior victims to testify and using the actors words  given on promise of immunity  against him.

Cosbys appeal to the Supreme court was heard in December when his lawyers argued that Cosbys entire life was put on trial in what amounted to a series of five mini trials that saw him suffer unquantifiable prejudice.

According to his lawyers, the prior bad acts evidence overwhelmed the trial and converted it from a trial of a specific offence to a trial of his character.

This was just one of the grounds on which they are seeking to have his guilty verdicts overturned.

They also argued that a deposition given by Cosby during a civil suit brought by Constand and settled in 2006 was inadmissible as it had been given on the promise of immunity from criminal prosecution.

Today Cosby remains defiant in the face of the parole boards denial.

According to Wyatt, He remains hopeful that the Pennsylvania State Supreme Court will issue an opinion to vacate his conviction or warrant him a new trial.
Matt Hancock has pledged to improve access to GPs after family doctors complained they were being overwhelmed.

Doctors say they have been set an 'undoable' task by ministers, with pent-up demand from the pandemic creating a 'tsunami' of patients.

The numbers visiting GPs increased by 20 per cent last month, according to analysis of NHS England figures by the Health Foundation.

In the first year of the pandemic, 31million fewer GP appointments were carried out than normal as patients put off seeing doctors over fears of catching Covid or burdening the NHS.

And since restrictions started to be eased on March 8, there has been a huge surge. That month there were 28.5million appointments at GP surgeries. Doctors saw the most patients since figures were first recorded.

Matt Hancock has pledged to improve access to GPs after family doctors complained they were being overwhelmed

Just 54 per cent of appointments are now in person, compared with 79 per cent two years ago. Campaigners say it is becoming harder to see a GP face to face, with older patients in particular missing out.

Health Secretary Mr Hancock yesterday told MPs he was committed to improving GP access so 'everybody who needs care can get care'.

He added: 'This morning, I met with the British Medical Association GP leadership to talk about what more we can do to strengthen access to GPs.'

Two weeks ago NHS England wrote to GPs saying patients must be offered face-to-face appointments if that is their preference, but the move was met with some opposition from GP leaders who warned of problems including a lack of space in surgeries.

'I deal with 100 people a day  it's no surprise some feel fobbed off' Ben Allen says his medical workload has become 'exponentially more challenging' Ben Allen says his medical workload has become 'exponentially more challenging' over the past decade. The 37-year-old GP from Sheffield helps manage up to 100 patients a day and warns that increased pressures have damaged the relationships between doctors and their patients. He said abuse has become a daily reality because some patients feel fobbed off but that 'most are respectful and understanding of the challenges we face'. He added: 'This situation is neither the fault of GPs or patients, many of us can't do a better job than we're doing. 'What we are expected to achieve has increased far beyond funding and staffing. Most GPs became doctors because we care. And every day we are powerless to avoid communicating that we don't. Patients now just feel they are an inconvenience.' Advertisement

Martin Marshall, chairman of the Royal College of GPs, said what was being asked of the profession was simply 'undoable' as a result of staff shortages.

He said that three decades ago as a GP he would see 20 patients a day. Now GPs are expected to see up to three times that number.

Professor Marshall told BBC Radio 4: 'If I was a patient, I wouldn't want to see my GP at the end of a 12-hour day and be the 50th or 60th patient they've seen.

'It's causing massive stress. For some GPs the only way they can cope is to work part time. Others are retiring early.'

He said that general practice was reaching 'crisis mode' due to the added pressure of patients coming forward after the pandemic.

He added: 'Some conditions are things people have held on to throughout the pandemic because they haven't wanted to burden the NHS and expose themselves to the risk of infection.

'Other people with long-term conditions are wanting to come in and see their GPs.'

Doncaster-based family doctor Dean Eggitt said: 'We have almost a tsunami of patients coming to us  it feels like the river has flooded the banks.

'It just keeps coming and coming and coming in this one massive, endless wave of patients who all are ill and need help and input.

'They're sick, they're complex and we've got very few places to send them. I wouldn't want to be my patient right now.'

The Royal College of GPs is calling for investment from the Government to meet a manifesto promise of 6,000 more GPs by 2024/25.

They have recruited only an extra 400 so far, it said.

A spokesman added: 'Public attention on NHS pressures always seems to focus on hospitals, but we must not ignore the pressures in general practice as this will have dire consequences for the wider NHS and the care of our patients.'

An NHS official said: 'GPs have worked hard to offer appointments to those who needed them throughout the pandemic with more than 28million delivered in March this year, in line with pre-pandemic levels, at the same time as rolling out the biggest and fastest vaccination programme in NHS history.'
Wildlife authorities are investigating after a wedge-tail eagle was found riddled with shotgun pellets in southern Tasmania.

The bird was discovered this week at a property in Birchs Bay and is now being cared for by Raptor Rescue.

'I'm just trying to get it back on track. I'm not sure if it's going to survive,' director Craig Webb told AAP.

Wedge-tailed eagles, Australia's largest bird of prey, are listed as endangered in Tasmania.

The bird was discovered this week at a property in Birchs Bay and is now being cared for by Raptor Rescue

The state's Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment says it is investigating the incident.

'Killing or interfering with native wildlife is illegal in Tasmania unless a person has the relevant licence or permit,' a spokeswoman said in a statement.

'Anyone with information about suspected wildlife offences should report it to the (department's) investigations and enforcement section.'

A person convicted of taking, or injuring, a threatened species without the relevant permit could face a fine up to $108,000 or 12 months' jail.

Mr Webb said his raptor rehabilitation service encountered a dead eagle with its claws hacked off in the state's northeast last week.

'Killing or interfering with native wildlife is illegal in Tasmania unless a person has the relevant licence or permit,' a spokeswoman said in a statement

He has called for more wildlife enforcement officers to ensure those who harm or interfere with the birds are caught.

'These majestic eagles call Tasmania home. We really do need to respect and admire these fantastic creatures, not dismember them like they did last week,' he said.

'It's just unacceptable.'

Raptor Refuge has offered a $20,000 reward for anyone with information that leads to a conviction in relation to the shooting.

'You don't shoot a bird by mistake,' Mr Webb said.
Boris Johnson refused to back fiancee Carrie Symonds' complaint to The Times after it claimed the couple wanted to get rid of their pet dog Dilyn.

He objected on the basis that the proposed complaint, drawn up at the start of the Covid crisis, was 'a nonsense'.

A copy of the draft letter was leaked to the Daily Mail after Dominic Cummings told MPs on Wednesday that Miss Symonds went 'completely crackers' over a report claiming the couple hated Dilyn.

Boris Johnson refused to back fiancee Carrie Symonds ' complaint to The Times after it claimed the couple wanted to get rid of their pet dog Dilyn

He objected on the basis that the proposed complaint, drawn up at the start of the Covid crisis, was 'a nonsense'. A copy of the draft letter was leaked to the Daily Mail after Dominic Cummings told MPs on Wednesday that Miss Symonds went 'completely crackers' over a report claiming the couple hated Dilyn

Mr Johnson's former chief adviser Mr Cummings said Miss Symonds' reaction had diverted the Prime Minister's attention at a crucial stage ahead of the first lockdown.

He was also dealing with a demand by Donald Trump for Britain to back bombing raids in the Middle East.

The leaked letter shows Miss Symonds wanted Mr Johnson to support her formal protest that Jack Russell cross Dilyn was not 'chronically ill' and there were no plans to 'callously rehome' him.

The draft letter, in both their names, was prepared after Miss Symonds was enraged by an article in The Times on March 11 last year.

It was addressed to The Times and in it, the couple threatened to take their complaint to the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO).

The article said Dilyn could be put up for adoption because the couple were fed up with trying to house train the 'sickly animal'.

Miss Symonds denounced the story as 'total crap' on social media. And when The Times refused to print an apology, she urged Mr Johnson to write to it.

But after reportedly telling Miss Symonds he would send the letter, Mr Johnson changed his mind after Mr Cummings intervened, according to well-placed sources.

'The PM went along with it initially because Carrie was very cross,' said an insider. 'It was none of Dom's business but he hated Carrie and went berserk.

He told the PM it was a waste of time  and the PM agreed. He sympathised with Carrie's feelings but said, 'I can't sign this  it's a nonsense'.'

Mr Johnson's decision to not complain came after Mr Cummings was told he could not attend a Covid meeting because he was dealing with the Dilyn row.

The draft letter, in both their names, was prepared after Miss Symonds was enraged by an article in The Times on March 11 last year

Eight months later, Mr Cummings was ousted from his No10 post when he lost a power struggle with Miss Symonds.

In his evidence on Wednesday, Mr Cummings said: 'The Prime Minister's girlfriend was going completely crackers about this story. Part of the building was saying 'Are we going to bomb Iraq?'

'Part of the building was arguing whether or not we're going to do or not do quarantine.

'The Prime Minister has got his girlfriend going crackers about something completely trivial.'

He also accused Miss Symonds of intervening in a key No10 appointment in a way that was 'not only completely unethical but also clearly illegal'.

According to a well-placed No10 source, there was another reason Mr Johnson did not complain about the report. 'It was essentially true,' said the source.

'At one stage there was talk of getting rid of Dilyn. Carrie loves the dog but Boris has never been a fan. It drove him round the bend.'

Downing Street declined to comment last night.
Rep. Matt Gaetz is open to running for president if former President Donald Trump does not, despite concerns his tax collector 'wingman' Joel Greenberg will flip on him in sex trafficking probe.

'I support Donald Trump for president. I've directly encouraged him to run and he gives me every indication he will,' Gaetz told The New York Post via text. 'If Trump doesn't run, I'm sure I could defeat whatever remains of Joe Biden by 2024.'

But Gaetz will have to come out unscathed from any claims made by Greenberg, a former Florida tax collector who pleaded guilty to six counts of fraud and sexual offenses earlier this month.

Rep. Matt Gaetz told The New York Post that he's open to running for president - as long as former President Donald Trump doesn't try again for a second term

Former President Donald Trump, photographed outside of Trump Tower earlier this week, has not yet said if he'll run for president in 2024, though hinted that he would

A sketch of Joel Greenberg (right), described as a 'wingman' to Rep. Matt Gaetz, and Greenberg's attorney Fritz Scheller (left) in federal court in Orlando on May 17

Greenberg told investigators that the Florida Republican and at least two other men had sexual contact with a 17-year-old girl.

Gaetz has denied those claims.

'I'm not too worried about Joel Greenberg,' Gaetz told Newsmax last week.

'Joel Greenberg is literally sitting in jail right now because he originally accused someone who was innocent of having had a relationship with a minor. That wasn't true, it was just a false thing that Joel Greenberg had said and that's landed him in quite a bit of trouble.'

Gaetz told The Post he hasn't formed an exploratory committee for a 2024 White House bid.

But he has gotten experience being on the campaign trail.

He's joined Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, another controversial member of the party, at rallies in Florida and Arizona.

Another was planned for Thursday night in Georgia.

Rep. Matt Gaetz is getting campaign trail experience, speaking at rallies in Florida and Arizona alongside Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene

And earlier this year he traveled to Wyoming, the home state of Rep. Liz Cheney, to rally against her after she split with the party and voted to impeach Trump.

Cheney has since lost her No. 3 leadership post in the House GOP over continued Trump criticism.

Cheney also told The Post that she's open to running for president in 2024.

Another source told The Post that Gaetz could run as an assist to another prominent Florida man - the state's Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Gaetz could play attack dog for DeSantis and take out other members of the party if there's a crowded Republican primary, like New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie did for Trump, when he went after Florida Sen. Marco Rubio at a 2016 New Hampshire debate.

Trump has not officially announced that he'll run for president again in 2024, though has hinted that he would.
Citizen, the crime tracking and neighborhood watch app, is backing down from plans it had considered to create a private security force to dispatch to users in distress.

On Tuesday, Citizen ended the pilot program in Los Angeles and says it has no plans to launch a similar service elsewhere, according to CBS News.

It comes after a Citizen spokeswoman last week confirmed the pilot program to DailyMail.com, saying that it was testing private security responses with its own employees in Los Angeles, for example if they wanted to be escorted home at late at night.

A mysterious Citizen-branded patrol vehicle had been seen prowling the streets of Los Angeles, which was recently linked to private security firm Los Angeles Professional Security (LAPS).

'This was a small 30-day test that is now complete,' a Citizen spokesperson told CBS MoneyWatch of the program. 'We have no plans to launch our own private security force and no ongoing relationship with LAPS.'

In recent days, a mysterious Citizen-branded 'private patrol' car has been seen prowling LA. The company says it is piloting a private security force to respond to user requests

The Citizen app, first released in 2016, relies on police scanner traffic and user reports, including user-submitted videos, to map reports of nearby crimes and police responses

The Citizen app, first released in 2016, is wildly popular in major cities as a way to track nearby crimes. It is currently available in about 20 large cities.

The app relies on police scanner traffic and user reports, including user-submitted videos, to map reports of nearby crimes and police responses.

The pilot program to provide private security was first revealed last week in internal emails leaked to Motherboard.

The internal emails described by Motherboard suggested that the new pilot project was part of an ambitious project to expand the company's mission from reporting crime to fighting it.

'The broad master plan was to create a privatized secondary emergency response network,' one former Citizen employee told the outlet.

The product, described as 'security response' in the internal emails, would have had Citizen send a car with private security forces to an app user who requested assistance.

One of the emails claimed that Citizen had pitched the security response service to the Los Angeles Police Department at a high level, and received an enthusiastic response.

The email said that the LAPD, hit by budget cuts last year and at its lowest staffing level in 12 years, is overrun with property crimes and struggling to respond to those types of calls.

The app, currently available in about 20 cities, appears to be considering a dramatic expansion into active crime fighting by creating a 'privatized secondary emergency response network'

Citizen already offers a personal safety subscription product called 'Protect', which allows a Citizen employee to monitor the user's location when active, and can stream video to the Citizen agent when triggered by a safeword.

Pitched as a 'digital bodyguard,' the service advertises 'Instant emergency response to your exact location' in the event of trouble.

In addition to LAPS, the emails suggest that Citizen is working with Securitas, a private security guard company, for the pilot program.

Citizen CEO and founder Andrew Frame is under fire for putting a bounty on the wrong man's head in southern California

One email describes a test run by a Citizen employee in Los Angeles, who called in a Securitas guard to escort her to get a cup of coffee.

The email said improvements were needed to the user and agent experience, and that the results were under review with Securitas to make adjustments.

Though it has soared in popularity as violent crime has surged in many cities, the Citizen app has also drawn criticism, including accusations that it fosters paranoia or even racism.

Initially named Vigilante, the app was pulled from Apple's App Store over fears it would inspire users to take the law into their own hands, before relaunching under the current name.

On Friday, the Verge reported that Citizen CEO and founder Andrew Frame personally authorized an unorthodox $30,000 bounty to 'hunt down' an arsonist -- but put the money on the wrong man's head.

The app pushed the bounty out in an alert to users in Southern California last Saturday, but included a picture of a homeless man who was later released by the police for lack of evidence.

'Let's find this guy, activate safety network completely,' Frame wrote in an internal message, according to The Verge.

'This is a great transition of Citizen back to active safety. We are not a news company. We are safety and we make this sort of heinous crime impossible to escape from. That needs to be our mindset,' the message added.

After the mistaken identity was revealed, the company said in a statement that it is 'actively working to improve our internal processes to ensure this does not occur again.'

'This was a mistake we are taking very seriously,' the statement added.
Black Lives Matter co-founder Patrisse Cullors is stepping down as executive director of the organization amid controversy over her $3 million property portfolio.

Cullors, who has been at the helm of the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation for nearly six years, announced the news on Thursday.

The 37-year-old activist told The Associated Press that she is leaving to focus on other projects, including the upcoming release of her second book and a multi-year TV development deal with Warner Bros.

'I've created the infrastructure and the support, and the necessary bones and foundation, so that I can leave,' Cullors stated. 'It feels like the time is right.'

However, her departure comes after it was revealed last month that she has amassed a $3 million property portfolio, despite describing herself as a trained Marxist''.

Cullors faced fierce backlash over revelations about her personal spending - including the recent purchase of a $1.4 million home in a ritzy L.A. neighborhood.

It caused many to question what percentage of BLM donations were actually going towards social justice programs.

Black Lives Matter co-founder Patrisse Cullors is stepping down as executive director of the organization amid controversy over her $3 million property portfolio

Cullors faced fierce backlash over her personal spending - including the recent purchase of a $1.4 million home in a ritzy L.A. neighborhood (pictured)

However, she insists her resignation has been in the works for more than a year and has nothing to do with the personal attacks she has faced.

'Those were right-wing attacks that tried to discredit my character, and I don't operate off of what the right thinks about me,' Cullors told the Associated Press.

Last month, she described the criticism as 'racist and sexist' smears deliberately put out by the 'right-wing media'.

But it wasn't just conservatives who pressed Cullors over her finances.

The head of New York City's BLM chapter called for an independent investigation into the organization's finances after revelations about the property portfolio surfaced.

'If you go around calling yourself a socialist, you have to ask how much of her own personal money is going to charitable causes,' BLM organizer Hawk Newsome told The New York Post.

'It's really sad because it makes people doubt the validity of the movement and overlook the fact that it's the people that carry this movement.'

Protesters take to the streets of Los Angeles in October

Meanwhile, it was also revealed that a jail reform activist group founded by Cullors spent $26,000 for meetings and 'appearances' at a luxury Malibu resort.

Reform LA Jails paid $10,179 for 'meetings and appearances' at the Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club, and a further $15,593 at the Malibu Conference Center, which is owned by the resort, between July and September 2019.

A single night in a two-bedroom 'cozy ranch chic' suite in July costs $1,200, and guests at the 200-acre resort have access to a private five acre beach on the Malibu coast.

After the spending was revealed by the Daily Caller, former Fox host Megyn Kelly Tweeted: 'BLM must stand for... Babes Lounging in Malibu? Big Loads of Money? Blatant Lies about Marxism?'

The revelations prompted a sarcastic tweet from TV star turned podcaster Megyn Kelly, who questioned Cullors' true aims

BLM founders (from left) Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors and Opal Tometi are pictured on the red carpet at the Glamour Women of the Year Awards in Hollywood back in 2016

The BLM foundation revealed in February that it took in just over $90 million last year, following the May 2020 murder of George Floyd, a black man whose death had the hands of a white police officer inspired global protests.

The foundation said it ended 2020 with a balance of more than $60 million, after spending nearly a quarter of its assets on operating expenses, grants to black-led organizations and other charitable giving.

Critics of the foundation contend more of that money should have gone to the families of black victims of police brutality who have been unable to access the resources needed to deal with their trauma and loss.

Cullors and the foundation have said they do support families without making public announcements or disclosing dollar amounts.

'TRAINED MARXIST' PATRISSE CULLORS' $3M PROPERTY PORTFOLIO In April, Cullors raised eyebrows when it emerged that she had spent $1.4 million on a Los Angeles property - her fourth home, and her third in the city - in an overwhelmingly white neighborhood. The plush property, located in Topanga Canyon, comes complete with a separate guest house and an expansive back yard. Cullors and her husband also purchased a 'custom ranch' on 3.2 acres in Conyers, Georgia last year for $415,000. The residence boasts its own pool and airplane hangar. LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Cullors raised eyebrows when it emerged that she had spent $1.4 million on this residence in ritzy Topanga Canyon CONYERS, GEORGIA: Cullors and her husband also purchased a 'custom ranch' on 3.2 acres last year Additionally, property records show Cullors has bought two other Los Angeles homes in recent years. In 2016, she is said to have paid $510,000 for a three-bedroom home in Inglewood. In 2018, Cullors added another home to her property portfolio, by laying down $590,000 for a four-bedroom home in South L.A., the Post says. The New York Post reported that Cullors was also 'eyeing property at the ultra-exclusive Albany resort outside Nassau in the Bahamas where Justin Timberlake and Tiger Woods have homes.' The publication didn't cite sources for its information. LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: According to property records, Cullors also owns this LA home LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Cullors also owns a third LA property Advertisement

In 2020, the BLM foundation spun off its network of chapters as a sister collective called BLM Grassroots, so that it could build out its capacity as a philanthropic organization. Although many groups use 'Black Lives Matter' or 'BLM' in their names, less than a dozen are considered affiliates of the chapter network.

In April, the foundation stated Cullors was a volunteer executive director who, prior to 2019, had 'received a total of $120,000 since the organizations inception in 2013, for duties such as serving as spokesperson and engaging in political education work.'

'As a registered 501c3 non-profit organization, (the foundation) cannot and did not commit any organizational resources toward the purchase of personal property by any employee or volunteer,' the foundation said in a statement.

'Any insinuation or assertion to the contrary is categorically false.'

Cullors has made much of her money from consulting on racial justice projects outside of BLM. In 2018, she also released a best-selling autobiography titled: 'When They Call You a Terrorist: A Black Lives Matter Memoir.

Meanwhile, Cullors has also been paid an advance for her second book.

On Oct. 5, St. Martin's Press will release Cullors latest book, titled 'An Abolitionists Handbook,' which she says is her guide for activists on how to care for each other and resolve internal conflict while fighting to end systemic racism.

She is no doubt also being paid handsomely for developing and producing original cable and streaming TV content that centers on Black stories, under a multi-year deal with Warner Bros. The first of her TV projects will debut in July.

Cullors has made much of her money from consulting on racial justice projects outside of BLM

She was harshly criticized by both left-wing and right-wing activists on social media after details about her property portfolio came to light

Cullors founded BLM with Alicia Garza and Opal Tometi in 2013, in response to the acquittal of George Zimmerman, who killed Trayvon Martin.

It is unclear if Cullors is paid by the group, which is currently cleft by deep divisions over leadership and funding.

Cullors' co-founders have left, and last summer Cullors assumed leadership of the Black Lives Matter Global Network - the national group that oversees the local chapters of the loosely-arranged movement.

Cullors' move has not been universally welcomed, Politico reported in October.

Local organizers told Politico they saw little or no money and were forced to crowdfund to stay afloat. Some organizers say they were barely able to afford gas or housing.

BLM's Global Network filters its donations through a group called Thousand Currents, Insider reported in June - which made it even more complicated to trace the cash.

Solome Lemma, executive director of Thousand Currents, told the site: 'Donations to BLM are restricted donations to support the activities of BLM.'

Last month, AP reported that BLM brought in $90 million in donations last year, leading to Michael Brown Sr. to join other Black Lives Matter activists demanding $20 million from the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation.

Brown, whose son Michael Brown Jr., was killed by police in Ferguson, Missouri, in 2014 says he and his advocacy group have been short-changed by the larger BLM organization.

'Why hasn't my family's foundation received any assistance from the movement?' Brown asked in a statement.

Cullors is yet to respond to DailyMail.com's request for comment.

The activist, who married Janaya Khan, a gender non-conforming leader of BLM in Toronto, in 2016, has been in high demand since her 2018 memoir became a best-seller.

Last month, AP reported that BLM brought in $90 million in donations last year, leading to Michael Brown Sr. to join other Black Lives Matter activists demanding $20 million from the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation

Cullors and the BLM movement have come a long way since its inception as a social media hashtag, following the 2013 acquittal of George Zimmerman, the neighborhood watch volunteer who killed 17-year-old Trayvon Martin in Florida.

Cullors, who has arguably been the most publicly visible of the co-founders, became the foundations full-time executive director last year purely out of necessity, she said.

'We needed her,' said Melina Abdullah, who leads BLM Grassroots and co-founded BLM's first-ever official chapter in Los Angeles.

'George Floyd was killed and the whole world rose up,' Abdullah told the Associated Press.

'I would like her to be there forever, but I also know that that's not feasible. The real test of any organization is can it survive the departure of its founders. And I have no question that Black Lives Matter will survive and grow and evolve, even with the departure of our final co-founder in a formal role.'

'I'm aware that Im a leader, and I don't shy away from that,' Cullors stated.

'But no movement is one leader.'
To the untrained eye, it looks like an ordinary walking stick.

But when detectives found this Victorian cane in the back of a taxi, they discovered what may be the key to solving a notorious murder.

For hidden inside the walking stick was a single-barrelled .410-calibre cane gun, capable of killing someone with a single click.

The discovery helped unlock what detectives described as a spiders web of gun crime in London.

Now it can be revealed that the gun broker who supplied this extraordinary weapon to warring drug gangs in the capital also sold a shotgun used in an unsolved murder and multiple shootings.

Police were mounting a suveillance operation when arms dealer Cristobal Ngomo traded the cane gun to Sonny Rai in February 2019 in Kings Langley, Hertfordshire.

When detectives found this Victorian cane in the back of a taxi, they discovered what may be the key to solving a notorious murder

As Rai returned home in a taxi, it was stopped by officers, who were amazed to discover a genuine Victorian cane gun. Such weapons are a rarity and can fetch around 1,000 if sold as antiques.

Cristobel Ngomo was caught selling a Terminator-type shotgun

Weeks later Ngomo was caught selling a Terminator-type shotgun rarely seen in the UK, which had been used to kill an innocent man days earlier.

Edward Simpson, 25, was in a childrens park when he was hit by a stray bullet, the unintended victim of a feud between rival gangsters.

No one has ever been brought to justice for the fatal shooting in Feltham, west London, in June 2019. Four days after the killing, a gang was seen going into bushes in a park in nearby Hillingdon. Police, who had the men under surveillance, found a 12-bore pump action shotgun loaded with four cartridges in the undergrowth.

The gun, which was used to kill Mr Simpson, was later found to have DNA linked to Ngomo on it. Police discovered that Ngomo had been hiding the murder weapon with the intention of selling it for up to 5,000 to be used in further bloodshed.

Last week the 30-year-old gun merchant from Hayes, west London, was jailed for 16 years at Isleworth Crown Court after being convicted of conspiracy to transfer a prohibited weapon and the sale or transfer of a prohibited weapon.

In May 2019, Rai, now 20, from Whitton, west London, was sentenced to two years in a young offenders institution for possession of a firearm.

Now police are appealing for help in solving the murder of Mr Simpson in the hope that the link to the arms trade could solve the case.

The shotgun has also been linked to two other shootings in east London in July and October 2018.

Detective Chief Inspector Driss Hayoukane, from the Metropolitan Polices Specialist Crime Command, said Ngomo was the key to unlocking a spiders web of gun crime.

As Rai returned home in a taxi, it was stopped by officers, who were amazed to discover a genuine Victorian cane gun. Such weapons are a rarity and can fetch around 1,000

The shotgun has been linked to two other shootings in east London in July and October 2018

Last week the 30-year-old gun merchant from Hayes, west London, was jailed for 16 years

He said: Ngomo was the link to these two separate investigations and was the key to unlocking this network of criminals who were involved in the supply and passing of weapons that have been used in a homicide.

The weapons are very unusual. The shotgun murder weapon was like something you see Arnie using in the Terminator. The other looked like a walking stick a highwayman might use. We had never seen anything like it before.

Detective Chief Inspector Katherine Goodwin, who is leading the investigation into Mr Simpsons death, said: Since 2019, Edwards family have not had justice for his death and although we have recovered the weapon that fatally killed him, we still need more evidence to bring his killers to justice.
Australians who get the Covid vaccine could be given travel vouchers, frequent flyer points and status credits by Qantas under a new plan from the airline.

Eager to get the international border reopened, the carrier flagged the plan this week in an effort to encourage Aussies to get the jab.

'Qantas is a big supporter of Australia's vaccine rollout because of what it means for public health, but also because it's the key to keeping our domestic borders open and safely restarting international travel as well,' Qantas Chief Customer Officer Stephanie Tully said.

Qantas is considering perks such as frequent flyer points for Aussies who get the Covid vaccine

The airline said boosting vaccine rates was key to getting borders reopened and passengers back in the sky (pictured: nurse Annabel Thomas receives the Pfizer vaccine)

'We're still thinking through how this would work, but the incentive could be Qantas points, Qantas or Jetstar flight vouchers, or status credits for frequent flyers.'

Among the potential perks for those who get the vaccine would be 1000 Qantas points, which could also be claimed by those who have already been inoculated.

The airline said boosting vaccine rates is key to getting the company's pilots, flight attendants, ground crews and customer service staff back in their jobs.

'As a large company that relies on travel to put our people and planes back to work, we're obviously motivated to help with the national vaccine effort,' Ms Tully said.

Qantas previously confirmed they would require passengers travelling internationally with them when borders re-open to prove they have been vaccinated.

Covid jabs in Australia are not compulsory and low case numbers combined with hesitancy over the AstraZeneca option have contributed to a lagging vaccine rollout.

The country's Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly said earlier this week the government was also looking at incentives to motivate the public.

Among the perks offered would be frequent flyer points, credits, and travel vouchers (pictured: Australians flying to New Zealand as a travel bubble opened in last month)

'I think we really do need to look for incentives, as many incentives as we can, for people to become vaccinated,' Professor Kelly said.

Such schemes are already underway in the United States, where earlier this month Ohio announced the names of vaccinated residents would be entered into a $1million lottery.

Alabama said those vaccinated would be allowed to drive two laps on the Talladega Superspeedway - a famous NASCAR racetrack - if they got the shot at a nearby vaccine hub.

A renewed push for Australians to get the vaccine is underway following a Covid cluster emerging in Melbourne, which reached 26 cases on Thursday.

The outbreak has forced Victoria into a snap seven day lockdown, with other states quick to bring in travel restrictions.

The lockdown has also left the largely Victorian-based AFL scrambling with some matches in the state to be played in front of empty stadiums and others relocated interstate.

Many teams rushed their players out of Melbourne ahead of the lockdown which began on Thursday night.

The Richmond Tigers match against Adelaide which was scheduled to be played in Victoria was relocated, likely to Giants Stadium in Sydney, with star Dustin Martin pictured at Melbourne airport on Thursday afternoon.

Dustin Martin of the Richmond Tigers is seen at Melbourne Airport on Thursday as AFL players and staff left Melbourne after changes to AFL fixtures were announced

NEW RESTRICTIONS FOR VICTORIAN STAGE 3 LOCKDOWN Only five reasons to leave home: - Shopping for necessary goods and services - Going to work or permitted education - Exercise with a two-hour limit - Medical reasons and care giving - Getting vaccinated Restrictions: No visitors to your home other than an intimate partner. Single bubbles will be permitted. If you live alone, you can make a bubble with another person.  No public gatherings.  Restaurants, pubs, and cafes can provide takeaway only.  Essential retail, so supermarkets, food stores, petrol stations, banks, bottle shops and pharmacies, other retail stores can provide click and collect.  Childcare and kinders will be open as per the last circuit breaker lockdown earlier this year.  Approved professional sporting events will proceed but proceed without crowds.  Schools will move to remote learning, except for vulnerable children, and children of authorised workers.  Higher education will move to remote learning only.  Community support and recreation, accommodation, but there will be some exemptions that apply.  Hotels, clubs, TABs and the casino will be closed,  Indoor and outdoor entertainment venues, swimming pools, spas, saunas, indoor and outdoor springs, community venues, drive in cinemas, amusements parks and arcades, creative studios, art galleries and museums, tourism, tours, and transport, and auctions can only happen online.  Aged care facilities, no visitors except for limited reasons.  In our hospitals, visitors only for end of life, to support a partner during birth, or a parent accompanying a child.  In terms of ceremonies, funerals, a maximum of 10 people plus those running the service.  Weddings cannot proceed unless end of life or deportation reasons apply.  Religious activities will not proceed other than through broadcast with a maximum of five people. Advertisement

Under Victoria's lockdown residents will only be able to leave home to shop for food and essential items, provide or receive care, exercise, work or study if they are unable to from home, and get vaccinated.

The 5km travel limit will also be reimposed for exercise and shopping, as will compulsory use of masks indoors and outdoors.

All non-essential retail will close but essential stores including supermarkets, bottle shops and pharmacies will remain open.

Cafes and restaurants will only be able to offer take-away.

Childcare and kinder will stay open, but schools will close.

Victoria's acting premier James Merlino announced the state's vaccine program will expand as the new cases emerged - with people aged between 40 and 49 now eligible for the Pfizer jab.

The South Australian hotel quarantine breach which has sparked a worrying Covid-19 outbreak in Melbourne is likely to have begun when the virus went from one open door to another (pictured, Melbourne health workers at a testing centre on Wednesday)

'The vast majority of our community in this country are not vaccinated, and that means that we need to have these circuit breaker lockdowns like we have seen elsewhere,' he said Thursday.

The latest outbreak was sparked after a man in his 30s left hotel quarantine in South Australia and travelled to Victoria.

He was later revealed to have caught Covid from another guest in an adjacent room.

Venues across the city have been identified as hotspots including shopping centres, bars and cafes.

From Thursday night, people in Victoria will only be able to leave home to shop for food and essential items, provide or receive care, exercise and to work or study, and get vaccinated
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America's baffling but lethal love affair with guns goes from strength to strength. New figures show 2020 was the deadliest gun violence year in decades.

At the same time, Americans are buying guns in record numbers, while Texas lawmakers this week became the latest to vote to allow people to carry handguns without either a licence, background check or any training.

The British response is traditionally to sigh in weary bewilderment and just be glad that such a terrifying arms race doesn't exist in the UK. And yet there's reason to be alarmed.

British police report that a growing number of firearms bought legally in U.S. gun shops are finding their way illegally to the UK, where they are being used by criminals who remove their serial numbers to make tracing them far harder.

Between 2017 and 2020 nearly 900 illegal weapons seized in Britain originated in the U.S., and officials fear that gangs can increasingly turn from knives to guns.

Last weekend, Black Lives Matter activist Sasha Johnson was shot in the head at a London party. She was treated for her critical injuries in hospital.

Back in the U.S., the most often quoted firearms fact is that it's the only country in the world with more guns than people  around 12 guns to every ten people, or 390 million in a population of about 331 million (although if unregistered guns are also included, it's estimated the total could be almost double that).

However, those astonishing figures are deceptive  more than three-quarters of adult Americans say they don't own a gun, while a few people drastically drive up the total by owning vast arsenals, as they are legally entitled to do.

Fifty of those one-man, or frequently one-woman, armies are profiled in a shocking new book, The Ameriguns, in which photographer Gabriele Galimberti asked members of Facebook gun enthusiast groups to pose with their weaponry.

They include clergymen and jewellery makers, as well as more predictable gun enthusiasts such as ex-servicemen and police.

The photographer found a family in Texas that owns more than 200 firearms.

Former FedEx delivery driver Stephen Wagner, 66, from Pennsylvania, has 70, and still fondly remembers the moment when he was eight and his grandfather put a revolver in his hand, explaining how it worked.

'We Americans are very lucky,' he told Galimberti. 'It's wonderful to have a bond of this sort with our country.'

'A Good Patriot'

Katie, 41, displays her firearm collection after moving to Texas because of crackdowns on gun ownership in her native state of California

Originally from California, Katie moved to Texas because of crackdowns on gun ownership in her native state.

The 41-year-old says: 'Me and my husband decided to move here mainly because the government of California was becoming a bit oppressive.'

Katie runs a business called The Good Patriot, producing home decor items focused on freedom, the U.S. constitution and the Second Amendment, which enshrines in law the right of Americans to bear arms.

'I can be any man's equal'

Instagram influencer Brickell Clark, 36, poses on a yacht with her gun collection

Instagram influencer Brickell Clark has nearly 20,000 followers at @ americangunchic and likes guns for two reasons: they're chic and great levellers.

The 26-year-old from Key West, Florida, says: 'While everyone has a right to own guns, for a woman it's also a way to be any man's equal.'

The mum with 170 firearms

Parents Joel and Lynne, from Austin, Texas, proudly display their immense firearm collection

Joel and Lynne live with their children Paige and Joshua in Austin, Texas.

Lynne is the gun fan, owning around 170. Aged just 11, Joshua walks around the house with a handgun he built himself from a catalogue.

'They let us defend our family'

Gun shop owners Floyd and Lesia McMillin, both 49, keep some firearms loaded and ready to fire at home

Floyd and Lesia McMillin's home is a showcase of hunting trophies, featuring stuffed deer, squirrels , ducks and geese.

In the bedroom are the guns  only one or two ready to be fired at a moment's notice 'in the defence of the family'.

The collection of the couple, both 49, who own a gun shop in Topeka, Kansas, consists of 65 pieces.

'Dad gave me a pistol aged 10'

Robert Nordyke, 43, from Topeka, Kansas, got his first gun at just 10 years old and his collection has since grown to around 50 firearms

Robert Nordyke's dreams came true when he opened a gun shop and shooting range in 2015. The 43-year-old, from Topeka, Kansas, has about 50 guns. He got his first pistol aged ten from his father.

'I can recall those days we spent in the fields trying to hit tin cans. They were so much fun.'

Now, his range houses a 'simulation room', where, thanks to virtual reality, players face extreme situations using real or fake firearms. He teaches customers how to shoot and rules about how to be safe.

'I collect military weapons'

David Kikukawa, 25, from Hawaii, said that he collects guns to protect himself

From the age of eight, David Kikukawa nursed a desire to own firearms. He bought his first revolver just after finishing high school, not long before enlisting in the army for four years.

Since returning to civilian life, the 25-year-old from Hawaii collects guns to protect himself.

'I have military-type guns. In the beginning I liked having them for practice, but today I think they're excellent for self-defence.'

'I'll never tire of new guns'

Kitija Shiroma, 29 has the biggest shooting range in Hawaii as well as She one of the largest collection of firearms on the island

Kitija Shiroma, 29  Mae to her friends  has the biggest shooting range in Hawaii. She owns it with her stepfather, a former military man.

It was he who instilled her passion for firearms. She says: 'I used to watch Hollywood movies and my father would take me hunting up in the mountains.'

She has one of the largest collection of firearms on the island, consisting largely of antiques. 'I could never get tired of having new guns,' adds Kitija, from Honolulu.

'Shooting feels so powerful'

Tuck driver Collin Singletom and factory worker James Prince who met at a shooting range in Atlanta, Georgia

Five years ago, truck driver Collin Singletom and factory worker James Prince met at a shooting range in Atlanta, Georgia.

'I started liking guns when I was really young. The first time I shot a gun, I was 16 years old. I remember feeling so powerful. It was a great feeling,' says Collin, 45.

Forty-one-year-old James's father put a revolver into his son's hand at the age of six and taught him how to use it. He now has 18 firearms in his collection, but is outgunned by Collin with 43.

'There are no weapons I would ban ordinary citizens from owning'

Every day, nearly 900,000 people wait for Torrell Jasper to make his appearance on Instagram and show off one of his guns

Every day, nearly nine hundred thousand people wait for Torrell Jasper to make his appearance on Instagram and show off one of his guns.

To find him, just type in 'Black Rambo', a nickname he's extremely proud of, and make sure you don't end up on his son's account by mistake (at 13, he's already trying to make a name for himself on social media). Torrell, now 35, learned to shoot from his father as a child. A former Marine, he spent a few years in war zones, 'where pulling the trigger and hitting the target was a question of life or death.'

Now, back in civilian life and working as an A/C systems installer, Torrell, a.k.a. Black Rambo, mostly just has fun with his guns. People have fun watching him, too. 'There are no weapons I would ban ordinary citizens from owning, but if I had to name one, well, a bazooka isn't really something you need,' he admits.

'My collection? It's big. Really, really big'

Every two weeks, Will Renke buys a new firearm. How long he's been doing this and how many guns he has, he prefers not to say

Every two weeks, Will Renke buys a new firearm.

How long he's been doing this and how many guns he has, he prefers not to say. 'My collection? It's big. Really, really big.' Underneath the solid image of a bright young entrepreneur, it's clear that he's moved when he thinks back on the time he first fired a gun, at the age of 10, and on the shotgun itself, a Fox Savage .410 that he keeps carefully preserved.

'Nothing is more important, because I don't think of it simply as a gun. It's a piece of history, something that was given to me by my grandfather and that I will want to give to my children.'

His grandfather imparted another lesson, as well, about 'the importance of safety and the knowledge that you never pull the trigger unless you know exactly what's in front of you'.

He is firmly convinced that violence is intrinsically linked to human nature and to a decline in values, both family and otherwise. 'People only care about their own interests, so, if hurting someone is in that interest, they won't hesitate. The next generations will have a chance to improve things if they learn responsibility, if they know how to communicate with others, if they respect their families, their schools, and the President, too, even when they don't like him.'

'If I'm wearing pants, it means that my handgun's there somewhere'

In a dream mansion just outside Las Vegas, in a room that's more of a museum, is where Robert Baldwin Jr. keeps his guns, behind a bulletproof showcase window so like a mirror that, unless you turn on the lights inside, you can't see the collection at all. It comprises hundreds of pieces.

None of them have historical significance, but Robert is nonetheless quite attached to them. 'I like to give myself a gun as a gift to mark important moments, like Christmas or my birthday.'

It's a family tradition. When he turned 6, his father gave him his first .22-caliber rifle and taught him how to use it. 'He used to shoot for fun. He was a hunter, and he wanted to bring me along, to forge a special bond. He succeeded.'

Today, Robert is a well-known rally driver. He's competed three times in the Dakar rally-raid and has twice won the Baja 1000, one of the most famous such races. He never goes out unarmed. 'If I'm wearing pants, it means that my handgun's there somewhere.' He is against any restrictions on owning weapons, although he does concede that 'no private citizen should be able to have a nuclear warhead.'

'An anomaly, in this ultra-liberal area'

When Bree Michael Warner decided to leave Manhattan and the city for somewhere less fast-paced, she put a lot of thought into what county would be best.

In some, guns are strongly frowned upon, in others, they are better tolerated. She owns 18 and is 'an anomaly, in this ultra-liberal area.' Most importantly, she has turned that fact into a cornerstone of her life. For 15 years she worked as an actress and TV-show host in California.

It was there that she really got to know guns and to love them so much, in fact, that she became an NRA member and a firearms instructor. Now she teaches women how to shoot, not only for self-defense, but also just for fun. Her first piece of advice to her students is, 'It's much easier to use a long gun than a handgun. They're more accurate and it's easier to hit the target.'

She still takes acting jobs sometimes, in TV and film, but she and her tips about guns have become a point of reference for a large social media following. 'I always try to be genuine. I never talk about a gun if I don't really like it. I don't take instructions from companies, even if I do have longstanding relationships with a few different ones.' What qualities does a gun need to have for her to like it? 'I don't look only at aesthetic qualities, although, as a woman, I do like pretty guns. What I want is for them to be practical, both for teaching others and for self-defense.'

The Ameriguns by Gabriele Galimberti, published by Dewi Lewis and Skinnerboox at 35.
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Video showing an unidentified flying object splashing down into the Pacific Ocean off the coast of San Diego two years ago appears to have been corroborated by military radar which shows as many as 14 UFOs swarming a Navy combat ship while traveling at speeds of more than 160mph.

Earlier this month, investigative filmmaker Jeremy Corbell released footage showing what appeared to be a spherical object floating in the air above the ocean as it was observed by US Navy sailors aboard the USS Omaha in July 2019.

Corbell on Thursday released another video of the same incident, only this clip shows military radar being observed by sailors on the Omaha.

DailyMail.com has reached out to the Department of Defense seeking comment on Corbell's claims.

Video showing an unidentified flying object splashing down into the Pacific Ocean off the coast of San Diego two years ago has now been corroborated by military radar which shows a ship, the USS Omaha, being swarmed by aerial phenomena in July 2019. The image above shows nine unexplained objects - some of which were traveling at speeds in excess of 160mph

Several of the UFOs disappeared from radar. At one point, there were as many as 14 UFOs observed on the radar

The video of the radar corroborates video filmed by sailors aboard the USS Omaha showing a strange spherical object splash down into the Pacific Ocean

The image above is a February 2018 file photo of the littoral combat ship the USS Omaha. Investigative filmmaker Jeremy Corbell says the ship is one of nine US warships that were swarmed by unidentified flying objects during the same period in July 2019

According to the web site Mystery Wire, the radar seen in the video clip showed as many as 14 objects as they circled the warship.

TRANSCRIPT OF AUDIO HEARD ON RADAR CLIP :01 'OOD if you can write a general lat/long of where were at.' :03 'We do have some X-band RADAR tracks' :05 'Yes sir.' :06 'And then the number of contacts youve got. Get the course and speed meters off em.' :09 'Copy.' :10 'You know what I mean? In relative position to us. And bearings. Might be helpful too.' :15 'Eyes up.' :16 'Eyes down.' :18 [intercom] 'CSM TAO Maintain track, maintain track as best you can.' :24 'Track 781 just sped up to 46 knots. 50 knots. Closing in.' :33 '138 knots. Holy s***. Theyre going fast. Oh, its turning around.' :36 'That ones pretty much perfectly zero zero zero relative, right?' :39 'Yeah.' :40 '263 at 3 miles. 55 knots, speed.' Advertisement

Sailors aboard the Omaha observed the objects and measured their speed using two different radar systems.

One of the objects flew as fast as 138 knots - which is more than 158 miles an hour.

Holy s***. Theyre going fast, one of the sailors is heard in the video saying.

He then adds: Oh, its turning around.

Corbell said he obtained the video from anonymous sources.

The military does not know where these flying objects came from or disappeared to.

Corbell told Mystery Wire that the Omaha was one of nine American warships that were warmed by UFOs during that same period in July 2019.

He said that the video of the radar is corroborative, electro optic data the likes of which the world has never seen before.

The video shows and supports the idea that there were a multitude of unknowns warming our warships, according to Corbell.

Corbell said that the footage of the radar was obtained from an individual who works inside the Combat Information Center.

It was filmed by a very special visual intelligence crews that came in and recorded the radar screens.

At one point, the radar showed as many as 14 unidentified objects, but Corbell declined to provide that footage.

He said that the release of the radar video was to debunk speculation that the initial footage showing the apparent flying saucer was faked or could be explained as a balloon dropping into the water.

'It supports the hypothesis that these are not just a balloon dropping into the water or its not something that is easily explained,' Corbell said.

'These are true unidentified in mass numbers  where you have radar data that goes with FLIR [forward looking infrared] data.'

In the initial video revealed earlier this month, US Naval personnel are seen having a close encounter with a UFO - this time a spherical object that makes a controlled descent into the ocean.

Two unidentified crew members could be heard exclaiming: 'Wow, it splashed,' after the ball made a controlled flight over the ocean, then splashed into the sea and disappeared underwater.

Still images from a newly released video show a spherical object diving into the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California. Investigative journalist Jeremy Corbell says the video shows 'FLIR [forward looking infrared] data' that is complimented by the radar footage

A map shows the region where fighter jets encountered the UFOs off the coast of Virginia

They filmed the object making a controlled flight above the water for an extended period of time before it finally entered the ocean. Corbell shared the footage with Mystery Wire on May 14.

It was released the same day that a US Navy pilot told of how he and his colleagues saw UFOs off the Virginia coast so regularly they grew used to the ultra-capable aircrafts' presence.

Former Navy Lieutenant Ryan Graves, who regularly witnessed UFOs in restricted airspace, called them a threat to national security

Former Navy Lieutenant Ryan Graves - who refers to UFOs as unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) - called them a threat to national security in an interview with 60 Minutes that aired on May 16.

He and his colleagues spotted the objects hundreds of times in protected air space between 2015 and 2017, and also recorded an encounter off the coast of Jacksonville, Florida, during the same time period.

The 60 Minutes report came as the government is expected to release a report in June on UFO sightings after unclassified videos of them were leaked to The New York Times in 2017.

Sen. Marco Rubio called for the detailed analysis after he viewed classified briefings on UAP while he was the head of the Senate Intelligence Committee and asked the Director of National Intelligence for an unclassified report.

Respected former government officials have conceded that the sightings are credible, and that the UFOs' origins remains unknown.

John Ratcliffe, the former director of national intelligence, told Fox News that these are not just eyewitness accounts - they're videos and measurements taken after 'multiple sensors that are picking up these things.'

'When we talk about sightings, we are talking about objects that have been seen by Navy or Air Force pilots, or have been picked up by satellite imagery, that frankly engage in actions that are difficult to explain, movements that are hard to replicate, that we don't have the technology for, or traveling at speeds that exceed the sound barrier without a sonic boom,' he said.

John Ratcliffe, the former director of national intelligence, told Fox News that these are not just eyewitness accounts - they're videos and measurements taken after 'multiple sensors that are picking up these things'

USS Omaha in 2019 in restricted waters off the coast of southern California (leaked May 2021)

The USS Omaha filmed a round object making a controlled flight above the water for an extended period of time before it finally entered the ocean. Investigative filmmaker Jeremy Corbell shared the footage on May 14 with Mystery Wire.

Still images from that video were first released in April as the Pentagon confirmed that a set of images and videos showing unidentified flying objects buzzing over Navy warships off the coast of California in 2019 'were taken' by branch personnel.

Staff could be heard exclaiming excitedly as the object made a controlled, gradual descent into the Pacific Ocean, before disappearing with a splash.

No explanation for the spherical object has been given...

The USS Omaha filmed a round object making a controlled flight above the water for an extended period of time before it finally entered the ocean

One of the images appears to be a pyramid-shaped object while others were thought to be drones or balloons; however, the Navy has listed them as unknowns.

In a statement, a Pentagon spokesperson told Mystery Wire: 'I can confirm that the referenced photos and videos were taken by Navy personnel. The UAPTF has included these incidents in their ongoing examinations.'

The confirmation came a week after Admiral Michael Gilday, the chief of naval operations, admitted that he has no idea where the swarm of mysterious Tic Tac-shaped drones that menaced four US destroyers in July 2019 originated.

Gilday led an investigation into the incident in which a group of what some have called unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) chased the destroyers for up to 100 nautical miles off the coast of California.

The Independence Class littoral combat ship USS Omaha (LCS 12) transits the Pacific Ocean

F/A-18E Super Hornets assigned to the Tomcatters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 31 returned to their home base at Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana in Virginia Beach

Flight logs revealed as many as six mystery aircraft swarmed the warships close to a sensitive training area at the Channel Islands at speeds of up to 40mph and with a greater maneuverability than US military drones.

When asked directly if the Navy had confirmed the identity of the drones at a media event, Gilday responded: 'No, we have not.'

The Drive revealed in February that US Navy warships stationed off the coast of Los Angeles had encountered swarms of mysterious drones, which pursued them at high speed in low visibility.

The outlet obtained ship logbooks and internal emails from the Navy under the Freedom of Information Act, and eyewitness descriptions from the staff on board, to establish the UAVs had a far greater aeronautical capability than any previously known drones.

Former US Navy Lieutenant Ryan Graves in a F/A-18 fighter off the Virginia coast between 2015 and 2017

Graves' F/A-18 fighter squadron spotted the 'maneuverable' spherical objects flying in restricted airspace near Virginia Beach almost every day from 2015 to 2017, he said.

'I am worried, frankly. You know, if these were tactical jets from another country that were hanging out up there, it would be a massive issue,' Graves told 60 Minutes.

'But because it looks slightly different, we're not willing to actually look at the problem in the face. We're happy to just ignore the fact that these are out there, watching us every day.'

He said pilots for the U.S. Navy saw UFOs off the coast of Virginia so frequently they got used to them despite them 'watching us' every day

Graves' F/A-18 fighter squadron spotted the 'maneuverable' objects flying in restricted airspace near Virginia Beach almost every day from 2015 to 2017

He said that pilots who have witnessed what the government calls 'unidentified aerial phenomena' have speculated that they might be anything from a secret U.S. technology to an enemy spy plane.

Graves also conceded the aircraft could be something else entirely.

'This is a difficult one to explain. You have rotation, you have high altitudes. You have propulsion, right? I don't know. I don't know what it is, frankly,' Graves told 60 Minutes while viewing one of the unclassified videos.

'I would say, you know, the highest probability is it's a threat observation program.'

A color image shows one of the unidentified aerial phenomena. Their technical capabilities far exceed that of any known aircraft, sparking fears for US national security

Pilots have speculated that they might be anything from a secret U.S. technology to an enemy spy plane

The outlet noted that Graves did not rule out the possibility they could be some sort of Russian or Chinese technology.

Luis Elizondo, a former official with the Defense Department, told 60 Minutes that the UAPs appear to have 'far superior' technology to anything the United States currently has in its known inventory.

'Imagine a technology that can do 600 to 700 G-forces, that can fly 13,000 miles an hour, that, that can evade radar and can fly through air and water and possibly space,' Elizondo said.

'And oh, by the way, has no obvious signs of propulsion, no wings, no control surfaces and yet still can defy the natural effects of Earth's gravity. That's precisely what we're seeing.'

Pyramid shaped objects spotted by hovering above the USS Russell, July 2019 (footage leaked April 2021)

Footage filmed around the same time as the spherical ball sighting - but released two months earlier - showed multiple pyramid-shaped objects hovering around 700 feet above the USS Russell Navy Destroyer.

It is also believed to have been filmed off the southern California coast, although it is unclear why Mystery Wire leaked this sighting before the sphere.

The April photos were leaked from a Pentagon investigation of UFOs by the UAP Task Force, which has been gathering evidence for a report for Congress that's due in June, according to Mystery Wire.

The image show unidentified objects flying above four US destroyers, including the USS Kidd Navy destroyer.

The outlet had also previously released video reportedly taken in July 2019 by naval officers using a night vision device, which showed pyramid shaped objects hovering 700 feet above a Navy destroyer

Mystery Wire says the triangular objects are part of the same incident as the spherical object diving into the sea

The video was taken in July 2019 by naval officers using a night vision device

US Navy pilot made visual contact with object on November 14, 2004

At least six Super Hornet pilots made visual or instrument contact with the UFO on November 14, 2004.

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.

The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz and the guided-missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea in formation during a Strait of Hormuz transit on September 18, 2020

Navy Commander David Fravor and Lieutenant Commander Jim Slaight had been flying about 100 miles off the coast of San Diego (pictured) in each of their F/A-18F Super Hornets (pictured) when they encountered an unidentified flying object described as a 'Tic Tac'

The USS Nimitz, a US Navy aircraft carrier, was at the center of a bizarre UFO sighting saga in 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.

He also revealed that for about two weeks, the Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Princeton, part of Carrier Strike Group 11, had been tracking mysterious aircraft intermittently on an advanced AN/SPY-1B passive radar.

The radar contacts were so inexplicable that the system was even shut down and restarted to to check for bugs - but operators continued to track the unknown aircraft.

Then on November 14, Commander David Fravor says he was flying in an F/A-18F Super Hornet when he made visual contact with the object, which seemed to dive below the water, resurface, and speed out of sight when he tried to approach it.

As Fravor landed on the deck of the Nimitz, Underwood was just gearing up to take off on his own training run.

Fravor told Underwood about the bizarre encounter, and urged Underwood to keep his eyes open.

He recalls how he suddenly saw a blip on his radar before tracking it on his FLIR camera.

'The thing that stood out to me the most was how erratic it was behaving,' Underwood told the magazine.

'And what I mean by 'erratic' is that its changes in altitude, air speed, and aspect were just unlike things that I've ever encountered before flying against other air targets.'

Underwood said the object wasn't obeying the laws of physics and dropped from 50,000 feet altitude to 100 feet in seconds, which he says, 'isn't possible'. He added that he saw no signs of an engine heat plume or any sign of propulsion.

The pilot refuses to speculate as to whether the object is an alien spacecraft or not, however.

'That's not my job. But I saw something. And it was also seen, via eyeballs, by both my commanding officer, Dave Fravor, and the Marine Corps Hornet squadron commanding officer who was out there as well.'
Two people died and 10 others are missing in the Atlantic Ocean after a boat they were on overturned 16 miles off Key West on Thursday afternoon.

Survivors told the U.S. Coast Guard that they left Puerto de Mariel, Cuba, on Sunday, and capsized sometime on Wednesday evening.

The survivors currently remain onboard a Coast Guard cutter where they will receive food, water and basic medical attention, the Coast Guard said in a press release.

Crews with the Coast Guard's Resolute had spotted multiple people in the water while on a routine patrol and alerted onshore officials .

A Coast Guard cutter is seen near Key West in a photo from 2007

Senior Chief Seth Haynes, Key West command center supervisor, said in a statement on Thursday night that: Our responders are focused on the search for survivors.'

"We will continue to search through the night for those reported missing, and if any mariners see or hear anything, to render assistance if possible and contact the Coast Guard,' he said.

The crews continue to search for the missing people, Petty Officer Jose Hernandez told the Miami Herald.

Members of the Coast Guard were able to rescue eight people who were on the boat, the outlet reported.

Hernandez told the Miami Herald that two Coast Guard cutters and several small boats from the Coast Guard Sector Key West are conducting search and rescue operations.

DailyMail.com has reached out to the Coast Guard for more information and additional comment.

Hernandez told the Associated Press that there was no immediate sign of the overturned boat.

Officials didn't immediately know what type of boat the people had been traveling in or where they had come from.
Oxford University is looking to raise 500million for its new centre aimed solely at tackling any future pandemics.

The Pandemic Sciences Centre will produce research to help governments respond better to outbreaks like Covid-19.

Experts at the university, the birthplace of the AstraZeneca vaccine, say they want to provide solutions for worst-case scenarios, such as a virus with a 50 per cent mortality rate.

Oxford chief Louise Richardson said she hopes the new centre will ensure the world is never caught unprepared again.

Experts at the university, the birthplace of the AstraZeneca vaccine, say they want to provide solutions for worst-case scenarios, such as a virus with a 50 per cent mortality rate

Professor Peter Horby, who will be the centres inaugural director, said: It should not take a pandemic to make this happen.

'This level of innovation and multi-sectoral collaboration must be applied, day in and day out, to prevent another catastrophe like Covid-19.

The university will approach philanthropists, corporate partners and governments to seek the 500million required.

Sir John Bell, regius professor of medicine at Oxford, said: It would be easy to ignore just how much more serious a pandemic could have been this time around - other highly pathogenic viruses carry mortalities of 35-50 per cent - imagine if we had a pandemic where one in three infected people died.

The University of Oxford is uniquely capable of leading a global step change in how we respond to the threat of emerging infections. He added that the UK needs to invest in sound science now to help safeguard public health in generations to come.

The university will approach philanthropists, corporate partners and governments to seek the 500million required. Pictured, The Radcliffe Camera in Oxford

Within Oxford, the centre will draw together academics and experts from across its research community - including from infectious diseases, vaccinology, immunology, structural biology, diagnostics, drug discovery, clinical trials, data science, public health, and social and political sciences.

Professor Richardson added: The recent pandemic has demonstrated the unique contributions research universities like Oxford can make to pandemic preparedness.

We are building on decades of medical research on infectious disease and data science, we have long-standing international partnerships and we have the ability to act and to adapt quickly.

When aligned with industry and with public health bodies we can ensure that the world is never caught unprepared again. It comes after the government faced criticism for being unprepared for a pandemic of this kind, both in terms of science and public policy.

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) last week accused ministers of having no plan when they closed the schools for lockdown last year.
JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon told a House committee Thursday that businesses are struggling to find workers because Americans don't want to work right now.

'People actually have a lot of money,' Dimon said. 'And they don't particularly feel like going back to work.'

There's a record high of 8.1 million job openings, as 27 states continue to allow workers to get enhanced benefits through President Joe Biden's COVID-19 relief bill.

JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon told a House committee Thursday that businesses are struggling to find workers because Americans don't want to work right now

Republican governors from 23 states are ending $300 per week unemployment benefits from President Joe Biden in an effort to encourage citizens to return to the workforce. States who will opt out of the federal relief program by the end of June are: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, and Wyoming

Economists have pointed to the unemployment boost, but also said childcare and health concerns could also be compelling Americans not to rejoin the workforce.

Dimon appeared at a House Financial Services Committee hearing one day after his appearance in front of the Senate Banking Committee made waves over a back-and-forth the CEO had with Sen. Elizabeth Warren.

Warren went after Dimon calling him the 'star of the overdraft show' after the bank took $1.46 billion in fees during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Massachusetts Democrat instructed Dimon and other bank CEOs at a Senate Banking Committee hearing to 'raise your hand' if their institutions stopped charging overdraft fees during the pandemic, which had been the advice of bank regulators.

Warren, who was appearing virtually, noted to those watching that not a single hand was raised.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren went after JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon at a Senate hearing Wednesday, nicknaming him the 'star of the overdraft show' after the bank took $1.46 billion in fees during the coronavirus pandemic

JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon defended the bank going against regulators' advice and not stopping fees by saying that the bank would refund fees when individual customers came forward and said they were 'under stress because of COVID'

She then zeroed in on Dimon, noting how JPMorgan charges fees severn times more per account than the bank's competitors.

'So, Mr. Dimon, how much did JPMorgan collect in overdraft fees from their consumers in 2020?' Warren asked.

Dimon tried to dismiss that statistic.

'I think your numbers are totally inaccurate, but well have to sit down privately and go through that,' he said.

'But these are public numbers,' Warren shot back.

Warren again asked Dimon how much is bank charged customers during the pandemic.

'I don't have the number in front of me,' the CEO said.

Warren talked over him and delivered the answer.

'Well, I actually have the number in front of me,' she said. 'It's $1.46 billion.'

She then asked Dimon if JPMorgan 'would have been in financial trouble' if the bank had stopped charging fees.

Dimon said the bank did refund fees if customers came forward and said they were 'under stress because of COVID.'

'I appreciate that you want to duck this question,' Warren said. 'The answer is your profits would have been $27.6 billion. I did the math for you,' she added.

'So heres the thing,' she continued. 'You and your colleagues come in today to talk about how you stepped up and took care of customers during the pandemic, and its a bunch of baloney. In fact, it's about $4 billion worth of baloney.'

Warren said during the hearing that the overall amount of overdraft fees charged by the banks in 2020 was $4 billion.

'But you could fix that right now, Mr. Dimon. Will you commit right now to refund $1.5 billion you took from customers during the pandemic?' she asked.

The CEO said no.

'No, that's right,' Warren said. 'No matter how you try to spin it, this past year has shown that corporate profits are more important to your bank than offering just a little help to struggling families, even when we are in the middle of a worldwide crisis.'
Britain is Europe's biggest polluter from private jet travel, it has been revealed, with flights from Luton to New York responsible for the highest CO2 emissions every year.

Flights entering or leaving the UK account for almost a fifth of Europe's private jet emissions, which increased by nearly a third between 2005 and 2019 according to analysis by the campaign group Transport & Environment.

The use of private jets has also continued during the Covid-19 pandemic.

By August 2020, when many Europeans were grounded and commercial flights down 60 per cent year-on-year, traffic involving private jets had returned to pre-pandemic levels.

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Private jet polluters: The top 10 most polluting routes involving European countries are shown above. Luton to Teterboro, New York tops the list, with Farnborough airport also appearing

EUROPE'S PRIVATE JET POLLUTERS: TOP 10 COUNTRIES BY CO2 SHARE Rank Country Share of CO2 1 Britain 19.2% 2 France 16.5% 3 Italy 10.2% 4 Germany 9.9% 5 Spain 9.2% 6 Switzerland 7.3% 7 Greece 3.1% 8 Austria 2.5% 9 Portugal 2.3% 10 Ireland 2.3%

Nice was the most common airport in the top ten, which the report claims 'further confirms that private jets are being used by wealthy people to enjoy the sun and splendour of Nice, instead of conducting business'.

London Luton and Farnborough airport were involved in six of the top ten most polluting routes taking off or landing in Europe  defined as the 27 EU members plus Britain, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland.

There were 565 flights between Luton and Teterboro, New York  despite there being a commercial option between Heathrow and John F Kennedy airport  1,390 between Nice and Farnborough and 113 between Hong Kong and Luton.

Private aircraft account for about two per cent of aviation emissions, but their pollution is growing faster than commercial aviation.

By August 2020, when many Europeans were grounded and commercial flights down 60 per cent year-on-year, traffic involving private jets had returned to pre-pandemic levels

Just one per cent of people cause 50 per cent of global aviation emissions, the report states, adding that it 'exposes the outsized role played by the super rich hopping on private jets for super short distances'.

The analysis claims that a four-hour private flight emits as much as the average person does in a year.

Private jets departing the UK and France are the biggest source of pollution, representing over a third (36 per cent) of private flight emissions in Europe between them.

The analysis claims that a four-hour private flight emits as much as the average person does in a year (stock)

Other countries in the top 10 were Italy, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Greece, Austria, Portugal and Ireland.

Andrew Murphy, aviation director at Transport & Environment, said: 'Flying on a private jet is probably the worst thing you can do for the environment. And yet super-rich super polluters are flying around like there's no climate crisis.

'The upside is that the private jet market is ideally suited to help bring about aviation's Tesla moment, making hydrogen and electric planes a reality.'
NASA is to launch glow-in-the-dark squid into space next week as part of a variety of scientific experiments heading for the International Space Station (ISS).

The hope is that studying the impact of spaceflight on the baby squid could help preserve astronaut health on long-duration space missions.

Also included in SpaceX's 22nd cargo resupply mission to the ISS on June 3 are tardigrades - microscopic water-dwelling animals capable of surviving harsh environments on both Earth and in space.

All of the payload's scientific research is tasked with discovering new ways of bettering the human body for both astronauts in space and those here on Earth.

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Off to space: NASA is to send glow-in-the-dark squid to the International Space Station next week as part of scientific research tasked with finding new ways of bettering the human body

WHAT EXPERIMENTS ARE SPACEX SENDING TO THE ISS? Squid: Determining whether spaceflight alters the mutually beneficial relationship between microbes and their animal hosts. This could support development of protective measures and mitigation to preserve astronaut health on long-duration space missions. Tardigrades: Identify gene that helps them survive harsh conditions. Scientists hope this gene could be used to better protect astronauts. Cotton: Define which environmental factors and genes control root development in the absence of gravity. The findings could help uncover agriculture methods for plants amid climate change. Tissue chips: Understanding how kidney stones form in microgravity. This experiment aims to not only help astronauts, but also those suffering with kidney stones on Earth. Ultrasound: A portable ultrasound will be tested in microgravity to collect crew feedback. This device could be used by astronauts going to Mars who are in need of medical attention. Advertisement

The payload is set to launch on board a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket no earlier than June 3.

NASA explained: 'SpaceX is targeting 1:29 pm EDT [18:29 BST], Thursday, June 3, to launch its 22nd commercial resupply services mission to the International Space Station.

'Liftoff will be from Launch Complex 39A at the agencys Kennedy Space Center in Florida.'

Alongside the squid and tardigrades, the payload will also include cotton and tissue chips to help researchers better understand how microgravity impacts plant resilience and the formation of kidney stones, respectively.

Astronauts aboard the ISS will examine the effects of spaceflight on the molecular and chemical interactions between beneficial microbes and their animal hosts.

The bobtail squid, Euprymna scolopes, is an animal model that scientists use to study symbiotic relationships between two species.

This investigation is tasked with determining whether spaceflight alters the mutually beneficial relationship, which could support development of protective measures and mitigation to preserve astronaut health on long-duration space missions.

Scientists hope this experiment will uncover the complex interactions between animals and beneficial microbes, including new and novel pathways that microbes use to communicate with animal tissues.

Understanding of Microgravity on Animal-Microbe Interactions (UMAMI) principal investigator Jamie Foster said: 'Animals, including humans, rely on our microbes to maintain a healthy digestive and immune system.

'We do not fully understand how spaceflight alters these beneficial interactions. The UMAMI experiment uses a glow-in-the-dark bobtail squid to address these important issues in animal health.'

Members aboard the space station will study the tardigrades, also known as water bears, with the hopes of identifying specific genes involved in their adaptation and survival in high stress environments.

Tardigrades have proven to be virtually impossible to kill  they can be frozen, boiled, crushed and even zapped with radiation but still survive.

Such powerful abilities caught the attention of NASA, which hopes to pinpoint genes that protect it from harsh environments with the hopes of better protecting astronauts from the stressors of space.

Tiny water bears: NASA hopes to pinpoint genes of Tardigrades that protect it from harsh environments with the aim of better protecting astronauts from the stressors of space

Principal investigator Thomas Boothby said: 'Spaceflight can be a really challenging environment for organisms, including humans, who have evolved to the conditions on Earth.

'One of the things we are really keen to do is understand how tardigrades are surviving and reproducing in these environments and whether we can learn anything about the tricks that they are using and adapt them to safeguard astronauts.'

The experiment will analyse a previously known genome of the tardigrade, with the goal of identifying genes that are required for adaptation and survival in high stress environments.

Scientific tests: Also along for the ride to the orbiting laboratory is a portable ultrasound, called Butterfly IQ Ultrasound, which will be analysed to see how it operates in microgravity

'The findings from this study can be applied to understanding the stress factors of humans in the space environment, and identification of countermeasures,' NASA said in a statement.

Also along for the ride to the orbiting laboratory is a portable ultrasound, called Butterfly IQ Ultrasound, which will be studied to see how it operates in microgravity.

The experiment collects crew feedback on ease of handling and quality of the ultrasound images, including image acquisition, display and storage.

Testing of the ultrasound could be vital for missions to Mars, as astronauts will not have traditional medical devices in the event of an emergency.

The final experiment in the payload will study cotton, which has a gene that allows it to thrive in droughts and other stressful conditions

Meanwhile, kidney stones, often painful and debilitating, have long been a serious concern for astronauts, who have reported them more than 30 times post-flight.

To better understand what causes their formation, scientists are sending the ISS crew tissue chips that make up a 3D kidney cell model, which will monitored for changes while in microgravity.

The final experiment in the payload will study cotton, which has a gene that allows it to thrive in droughts and other stressful conditions.

Improved understanding of cotton root systems and associated gene expression could enable development of more robust cotton plants and reduce water and pesticide use.
Prehistoric violence on the edge of the Sahara desert, believed to be the oldest identified race war, was actually a series of conflicts, reanalysis of 13,000-year-old skeletons suggests.

Healed trauma on remains found in the Jebel Sahaba cemetery in Sudan indicates that individuals fought and survived several violent assaults, rather than fighting in one fatal event as previously thought.

The cemetery, discovered in 1965 on the east bank of the Nile, contained at least 61 individuals dating back to 11,000BC  around half of whom had died from inflicted wounds.

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Healed trauma on skeletons found in the Jebel Sahaba cemetery in Sudan (pictured) indicates that individuals fought and survived several violent assaults, rather than in one fatal event

Scientists identified 106 previously undocumented lesions and traumas, and were able to distinguish between projectile injuries from arrows or spears (pictured), trauma from close combat, and traces associated to natural decay

The cemetery (pictured), discovered in 1965 on the east bank of the Nile, contained at least 61 individuals dating back to 11,000BC  around half of whom had died from inflicted wounds

The discovery of Jebel Sahaba cemetery The cemetery was discovered in 1965. It contained at least 61 individuals dating back about 13,000 years ago. The graveyard is one of the earliest formal cemeteries in the world. Prior to the discovery, only isolated graves, or clusters of up to three bodies had been known within the Nile Valley, experts at the British Museum write in a blog post. Out of the 61 skeletons found buried at the site, at least 45 per cent of them died from inflicted wounds. The remains are the earliest evidence for inter-communal violence in the archaeological record. Fragments of arrows and weapons were found alongside the bodies  with some weapons embedded in the bones. Cut marks were also found on the bones. Advertisement

Scientists originally believed the hunter-fisher-gatherers had been killed in a single armed conflict, considered to be the earliest-known example of communal violence between groups.

However, reanalysis of the bones using newly-available microscopy techniques suggest it was actually a succession of violent episodes, probably exacerbated by climate change.

The skeletons, currently being preserved at the British Museum in London, were analysed by scientists from the French National Centre for Scientific Research and the University of Toulouse.

They identified 106 previously undocumented lesions and traumas, and were able to distinguish between projectile injuries (from arrows or spears), trauma (from close combat), and traces associated to natural decay.

Researchers found 41 individuals (67 per cent) buried in Jebel Sahaba had at least one type of healed or unhealed injury.

The scientists suggest the number of healed wounds matches sporadic and recurrent acts of violence, which were not always lethal, between Nile valley groups at the end of the Late Pleistocene (126,000 to 11,700 years ago).

These may have been repeated skirmishes or raids between different groups, the research suggests.

At least half of the injuries were identified as puncture wounds, caused by projectiles like spears and arrows, which supports the theory that they happened when groups attacked from a distance, rather than during domestic conflicts.

Writing in Scientific Reports, the researchers, led by Isabelle Crevecoeur, said: 'We dismiss the hypothesis that Jebel Sahaba reflects a single warfare event, with the new data supporting sporadic and recurrent episodes of inter-personal violence.

'Territorial and environmental pressures triggered by climate changes are most probably responsible for these frequent conflicts between what appears to be culturally distinct Nile Valley semi-sedentary hunter-fisher-gatherers groups.'

Fighting probably broke out because of the environmental disaster of the Ice Age, which caused the attackers and victims to live together in a smaller area, experts previously suggested.

Ice Age glaciers covering much of Europe and North America at this time made the climate in Egypt and Sudan cold and arid, forcing people to live near the Nile.

But the river was either wild or low and sluggish. There was little land on which people could live safely, and resources were scarce.

One of the skulls excavated from the Jebel Sahaba cemetery in northern Sudan in 1965

The graveyard, illustrated showing the position in which the skeletons were found, is one of the earliest formal cemeteries in the world. The red dots show the individuals previously found to have traumatic lesions or signs of violence, the orange dots those with newly-identified lesions as well as those already discovered, and the green dots those newly-identified as having traumatic lesions or signs of violence

Reanalysis of the bones using newly-available microscopy techniques (pictured) suggests that what was originally thought to be a single conflict was actually a succession of violent assaults

French scientists have been examining dozens of skeletons found grouped together in the Jebel Sahaba cemetery (left during excavations in 1965). One of the skulls found pictured right

Competition for food may have been the reason for the violence as more groups of people had to stake a claim on the best fishing spots and sites to live.

Two other cemeteries found nearby the main site suggest other social units, or small tribes, also considered the area their home and this may have caused friction.

However, the remains buried in the other graveyards show no signs of violence.
Moon dust was one of NASA's biggest problems during the Apollo missions, causing issues for the equipment and the astronauts at the time.

Now, the government space agency is using the 'abrasive' material to help fight air pollution on Earth.

NASA is working with Denver-based Lunar Outpost on the company's air-quality sensor, which was initially designed to measure moon dust, to help measure various pollutants on Earth, such as particulate matter, carbon monoxide, methane, sulfur dioxide and volatile organic compounds.

The applications are endless, potentially being used in forest fires, volcanic eruptions and in the oil and gas industry to understand the level of pollutants and if the air filtration systems being used are effective.

The sensor, now known as Canary-S (Solar), is powered by solar energy and a battery that transmits data using cellular technology.

It takes measurements every minute and sends the data to a secure cloud, where it can be uploaded to Lunar Outpost's dashboard or one of their customer's databases to be viewed and analyzed.

Both the sensors and software are easily customizable, allowing customers to use it for their specific needs.

'Nowadays, everybody's so used to plug-and-play,' said Chris Cloutier, habitation design and integration lead at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida in a statement, adding that flexibility is 'a key capability.'

The Space Canary (since rebranded Canary-S) is an air-quality sensor. The cannister-shaped device above the open door on the right is seen in a lunar habitat prototype designed by Lockheed Martin

Canary-S can detect the ultra-fine lunar dust particles inside a habitat and be used on Earth for measuring forest fire emissions, evaluating air quality and more

While on the lunar surface, Apollo astronauts had to deal with moon dust, which one astronaut said caused him 'lunar hay fever'

Apollo 17 astronaut Gene Cernan (pictured) had his spacesuit covered in moon dust while on the lunar surface

Unlike the dust on Earth, moon dust 'clings' to everything and managed to break the vacuum NASA used to get it off the spacesuits worn by the Apollo astronauts.

One Apollo astronaut, Harrison Schmitt, said likened his reaction to the substance as 'lunar hay fever,' causing him to sneeze, have watery eyes and a sore throat.

Eventually, the symptoms dissipated, but there is a concern for human health.

Currently, the Canary-S is being used in 15 states across various industries, including by the U.S. Forest Service to measure forest-fire emissions in real-time.

'Firefighters have been exhibiting symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning for decades,' explained Julian Cyrus, COO of Lunar Outpost. 'They thought it was just part of the job.'

Other examples include Denver using the Canary sensor to measure air-quality at its schools.

The oil and gas industry can use the sensor to measure how effective their environmental controls are, Charles Losche, senior manager of growth and policy for Project Canary, added.

The public-private partnership stems from NASA's Next Space Technologies for Exploration Partnerships (NextSTEP) program.

As part of NextSTEP, NASA has asked its partners, including private industry, to help with future lunar habitation and and overcome obstacles it had faced previously, including moon dust.

'Supporting the private-public partnership is going to create a sustainable presence on the Moon,' Lunar Outpost's Cyrus, who previously worked on the Orion spacecraft while at Lockheed, added.

'Establishing that approach is one of the most important things that NASA has done over the last few years.'

NASA is still learning about moon dust and how to mitigate its 'intrusion' into habitable areas for its space crew, Tracy Gill, project engineer for the Mission and Commercial Support Office at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, said.

'Having a measurement system like Lunar Outpost demonstrated would help us understand the environment the crew is experiencing and help us to keep within the recommended exposure limits,' Gill added.
Life could become like George Orwell's 1984 within three years if laws aren't introduced to protect the public from artificial intelligence, Microsoft president Brad Smith has warned.

Smith predicts that the kind of controlled, mass surveillance society portrayed by Orwell in his 1949 dystopian novel 'could come to pass in 2024' if more isn't done to curb the spread of AI.

It is going to be difficult for lawmakers to catch up with rapidly advancing artificial intelligence and surveillance technology, he told BBC Panorama during a special exploring China's increasing use of AI to monitor its citizens.

The Microsoft president said: 'If we don't enact the laws that will protect the public in the future, we are going to find the technology racing ahead.'

Life for humans will 'become like Orwell's 1984' by 2024 if laws aren't introduced to protect the public from artificial intelligence, warns Microsoft president Brad Smith

HOW DOES FACIAL RECOGNITION TECHNOLOGY WORK? Facial recognition software works by matching real time images to a previous photograph of a person. Each face has approximately 80 unique nodal points across the eyes, nose, cheeks and mouth which distinguish one person from another. A digital video camera measures the distance between various points on the human face, such as the width of the nose, depth of the eye sockets, distance between the eyes and shape of the jawline. This produces a unique numerical code that can then be linked with a matching code gleaned from a previous photograph. A facial recognition system used by officials in China connects to millions of CCTV cameras and uses artificial intelligence to pick out targets. Experts believe that facial recognition technology will soon overtake fingerprint technology as the most effective way to identify people. Advertisement

During the special episode, Panorama uncovered 'shocking and chilling' evidence showing that China uses AI to monitor its population, including technology that claims to be able to 'recognise emotions' and determine guilt.

That is according to a software engineer who also provided documentary evidence to the programme.

Speaking anonymously because he fears for his safety, he told Panorama that he helped to install the system in police stations in Xinjiang province which is home to 12 million mainly Muslim Uyghurs.

He said: 'We placed the emotion detection camera three metres from the subject. It is similar to a lie detector but this is a far more advanced technology.

'It is used to confirm the authorities' prejudgment without any credible evidence. The computer score reveals the suspect is dangerous, therefore he or she must be guilty of many wrongdoings which have not been confessed yet.'

Conventional AI uses input to 'teach' an algorithm about a particular subject by feeding it massive amounts of information.

This could include sharing images of a particular type of plant, to allow it to determine whether a photo contains the image of that plant without human input.

However, it can be used for more nefarious purposes, such as is the case in China where it attempts to determine the guilt of people pulled in by police.

China hopes to be the world leader in artificial intelligence development by 2030 and won more AI patents than US institutions in 2019.

Smith said this is one example, visible around the world, of artificial intelligence bringing the real world closer to science fiction.

During the special episode, Panorama uncovered 'shocking and chilling' evidence showing that China uses AI to monitor its population, including technology that claims to be able to 'recognise emotions' and determine guilt

'I'm constantly reminded of George Orwell's lessons in his book 1984. You know the fundamental storywas about a government who could see everything that everyone did and hear everything that everyone said all the time.

'Well, that didn't come to pass in 1984, but if we're not careful that could come to pass in 2024,' he told the BBC.

Eric Schmidt, former Google CO and chair of the US National Security Commission on AI says beating China on AI is vital.

'We're in a geo-political strategic conflict with China,' he said. 'The way to win is to marshal our resources together to have national and global strategies for the democracies to win in AI.

Speaking anonymously because he fears for his safety, he told Panorama that he helped to install the system in police stations in Xinjiang province which is home to 12 million mainly Muslim Uyghurs

Conventional AI uses input to 'teach' an algorithm about a particular subject by feeding it massive amounts of information (stock image)

US Defense Secretary calls China a 21st century surveillance state US Defense Secretary is calling China a '21st century surveillance state,' following the ramp up personal surveillance in Xinjiang over recent years. Mark Esper said on Friday that China's Communist Party had created a surveillance state that uses artificial intelligence to repress Muslim minorities and pro-democracy demonstrators. 'In fact, the party has constructed a 21st century surveillance state with unprecedented abilities to censor speech and infringe upon basic human rights,' he added. 'George Orwell would be proud.' China says Xinjiang is its internal affair, and the issue there is not a religious or ethnic one, but about preventing terrorism and separatism. Advertisement

'If we don't, we'll be looking at a future where other values will be imposed on us.'

However, according to London School of Economics professor, Dr Keyu Jin, China 'does not seek to export its values,' adding the vision is of 'co-existence.'

It isn't just China making use of AI to monitor people - the US makes use of Google technology, such as image recognition technology that can distinguish people and objects in drone videos.

This is known as Project Maven and its use with the military led to some Google employees to resign in protest.

'Maven at the time wasa way of replacing human eyes by automatic vision for the drone footage that was being used in the various Arab conflicts,' Dr Schmidt said.

'I viewed the use of that technology as a net positive for national security and a good partnership for Google.'

Dr Lan Xue, an advisor to the Chinese Government, accused the US of leading a cold war on technology.

He said facial recognition could prove 'tremendously helpful' in identifying in mass gatherings if there is a major accident, not just for surveillance.

Despite Google withdrawing from Project Maven, the Department of Defence has continued to find Silicon Valley partners in its attempt to win the AI race.

'We're in a race, we're in this competition, that's what it comes down to,' said Seth Moulton, chair of the US Future Defence Task Force.

Conventional AI uses input to 'teach' an algorithm about a particular subject by feeding it massive amounts of information. Stock image

He says tech firms should support the government, saying this AI arms race could one day 'lead to conflict with China.'

Professor Stuart Russell, a British AI expert, now based at the University of California, Berkeley told Panorama we are 'living at a crossroads for the human race.'

'If we get it right it could be a golden era for humanity, we could abolish poverty and disease. If we get it wrong we could create a technology-reinforced global dictatorship, we could even lose control over the world to our own technology.'

BBC Panorama: Are You Scared Yet, Human? was broadcast on BBC One on May 26 and is available to catch up on BBC iPlayer.
A mutation in the so-called 'fat gene' has been discovered, which makes children pile on an extra 37 pounds (16.7kg) by the time they reach age 18.

The gene, called Melatonin 4 Receptor (MC4R), controls appetite by making a brain protein that identifies stored fat.

However, a mutation in the gene, thought to be carried by one in 340 people, can make children start piling on the pounds from a young age.

Researchers hope that its discovery could pave the way for an anti-obesity pill in the near future.

A mutation in the so-called 'fat gene' has been discovered, which makes children pile on an extra 37 pounds (16.7kg) by the time they reach 18 (stock image)

The Children of the 90s Study Based at the University of Bristol, the Children of the 90s, is a world-leading birth cohort study. Bristol University explained: 'Between April 1991 and December 1992 we recruited more than 14,000 pregnant women into the study and these women (some of whom had two pregnancies or multiple births during the recruitment period), the children arising from the pregnancy, and their partners have been followed up intensively over two decades. 'We are the most detailed study of its kind in the world and we provide the international research community with a rich resource for the study of the environmental and genetic factors that affect a persons health and development. 'Through our research we aim to inform policy and practices that will provide a better life for future generations.' Advertisement

Co-author Professor Sir Stephen O'Rahilly, of the University of Cambridge, explained: 'Parents of obese children are often blamed for poor parenting and not all children obtain appropriate professional help.

'Our findings show that weight gain in childhood due to a single gene disorder is not uncommon.'

If the MC4R gene does not work as normal, we think we have less, signalling hunger even when our stomach is full.

About 200,000 people in the UK have the mutation, according to the team, with carriers weighing an average 2st 9lbs bigger than average by age 18. What is more, most of the excess timber is fat.

Professor O'Rahilly said: 'This should encourage a more compassionate and rational approach to overweight children and their families  including genetic analysis in all seriously obese children.'

In the study, the team analysed the genes in 6,000 members of the Children of the 90s Study that tracks the lives of people born in south west England.

If a mutated version was found, they went on to identify its functional effects in the laboratory.

The findings suggest that around 200,000 people in the UK could carry large amounts of fat because of MC4R mutations.

Dr Kaitlin Wade, of the University of Bristol, and co-author of the study, said: 'Work like this is really made possible as a result of the amazing properties presented by a study like Children of the 90s.

About 200,000 people in the UK have the mutation, according to the team, with carriers weighing an average 2st 9lbs bigger than average by age 18

'Having biological samples for sequencing and rich life course data within a representative population sample is critical to allow new understanding and deep characterisation of important biological genetic effects like these.'

The participants were born in Bristol in 1990 and 1991 and have been followed ever since.

Co-author Professor Nic Timpson, Children of the 90s' principal investigator at Bristol, said: 'This work helps to recalibrate our understanding of the frequency and functional impact of rare MC4R mutations.

The gene, called Melatonin 4 Receptor (MC4R), controls appetite by making a brain protein that identifies stored fat (stock image)

'It will help to shape the future management of this important health factor  we extend our thanks to the participants of the Children of the 90s.'

The researchers hope the discovery of the mutation could pave the way for treatments in the near future.

Professor O'Rahilly added: 'In the longer term, knowledge of the brain pathways controlled by MC4R should help in the design of drugs.

'They would bypass the signalling blockade and help restore people to a healthy weight.'
'Long Covid' patients will soon be able to monitor their symptoms and track their recovery with the help of a new app being launched by the NHS.

It will enable patients to self-report their symptoms and the impact they are having on their daily lives.

Members of the public will not have direct access to the app, which is set to launch on Tuesday (June 1), but 'long Covid' sufferers will be invited to download it by their doctor.

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An app for 'long Covid' patients will ask a series of questions about what their health was like before and after contracting Covid. The information is shown on two radar plots, one showing the severity of their symptoms (pictured) and the other how they impact on daily activities

It will initially be available to patients in 27 NHS Trusts, including the Salford Royal, Pennine Acute Hospitals, Liverpool University Hospitals, Airedale, and Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trusts.

'Long Covid' refers to persistent symptoms that last for four weeks or longer after contracting Covid-19. They include breathlessness, fatigue, brain fog, psychological distress, joint pain, and a general decline in quality of life.

The information a patient puts into the app will be stored on a confidential database which can be accessed by the NHS team involved in their care to monitor their progress and consider treatment options.

Dr Manoj Sivan, consultant in rehabilitation medicine at Leeds Teaching Hospital, is the lead academic in the project.

He said: 'Long Covid is a new condition, and it is causing long-term health problems for many patients.

'Given the scale of the problem, it is likely to strain healthcare services and burden the economy. We need efficient systems to manage the growing caseload and to standardise care across the NHS.'

More than one million people in the UK were experiencing 'long Covid' during four weeks in February and March, figures from the Office for National Statistics show.

This is the second radar plot 'long Covid' patients will see, allowing them to monitor their recovery and giving NHS teams the chance to consider treatment options. It shows how their symptoms are impacting on their daily activities, and how this compares to their life pre-Covid

About 697,000 of those had experienced symptoms for at least 12 weeks, while 70,000 said they had been ill for a year. Around 674,000 said the condition was adversely affecting their day-to-day lives.

The app asks patients a series of questions about what their health was like before and after contracting Covid. The information is shown on two radar plots, one illustrating the severity of their symptoms and the other how these impact on daily activities.

Users will be told to regularly update the app and, over time, the radar plots will show what progress they are making towards recovering their health.

'A patient will be able to update the app at different stages in their recovery  and it will show them and their clinician how they are improving and what areas might need more targeted input,' said Jenny Davison, 'long Covid' rehabilitation service coordinator with Leeds Community Healthcare Trust.

'It provides an excellent visual demonstration of the data in graph format for patients to see at a glance the improvements they have made.'

The app was developed in partnership between the University of Leeds, Leeds Teaching Hospitals and Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trusts, and the digital health company ELAROS.
Friends episode 'The One with the Cop' is one many fans will not forget - it includes a scene with Ross frantically shouting, 'Pivot!' as he, Rachel and Chandler attempt to move a sofa up flights of stairs in a New York apartment.

The trio were unable to maneuver the couch around the stairwell, which forced them to cut it into pieces  but a mathematician found the endeavor would have been successful if they had only taken measurements.

Data Science Consultant Caroline Zunckel ran 10,000 simulations based on different measurements of the stairwell and couch, and found the sofa only needed to be tilted upwards to move around the corner.

'By applying Pythagoras' theorem to the estimated measurements of Ross's sofa in a vertical position, and dimensions of the stairs, I was able to establish that it would have been possible to get the item upstairs. It's quite simple really,' Zunckel said in a blog post from apartment finder SpareRoom.

The final equations is: Angle of vertical tilt (T) =44.15064 -11.94274xWS (Width of the Stairwell) + 8.69119xWC (Width of the Couch) + 3.65961xLC (Length of the Couch).

Although the mathematical equation looks complicated, it can be broken down into steps with the first suggesting Ross should have measured the width of the stairs and width and length of the couch.

By lifting the front of the couch toward the ceiling, Ross, Rachel and Chandler would have been able to clear then column and move it into the apartment.

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Friends episode 'The One with the Cop' is one many fans will not forget - it includes a scene with Ross frantically shouting, 'Pivot!' as he, Rachel and Chandler attempt to move a sofa up flights of stairs in a New York apartment

'The One with the Cop' is the sixteenth episode of the fifth season of Friends, which aired on NBC on February 25, 1999.

During this episode, Ross, played by David Schwimmer, is moving a couch into his new apartment and enlists Chandler, played by Mathew Perry, and Rachel, played by Jennifer Aniston, to lend a hand.

While attempting to move the couch around a corner, Ross famously shouted 'Pivot,' which is still an iconic moment 21 years later.

However, the trio was unable to move it passed the barrier and instead had to cut it in half.

During this episode, Ross, played by David Schwimmer (left), is moving a couch into his new apartment and enlists Chandler, played by Mathew Perry, and Rachel, played by Jennifer Aniston (right)

Data Science Consultant Caroline Zunckel ran 10,000 simulations based on different measurements of the stairwell and couch, and found the sofa only needed to be tilted upwards to move around the corner

Here the length of the couch vertically would be less than horizontally, allowing the crew to successfully pivot the piece of furniture around the corner.

And then they could have positioned to its original vertical position once the corner was cleared - allowing them to easily carry the sofa into Ross's apartment.

Matt Hutchinson, SpareRoom Director added: 'We know moving new furniture into a flat can be challenging. Ross isn't the only one to end up with his couch stuck in a stairwell or corridor.

The trio were unable to maneuver the couch around the stairwell, which forced them to cut it into pieces  but a mathematician found the endeavor would have been successful if they had only taken measurements

'Although the research contains some headache-inducing math, the solution for Ross is pretty simple: 'pivot' and 'tilt' - and take a little time to measure up before you buy any furniture. That, or, hire in the professionals!'

Although this episode aired 21 years ago, Friends fans will have another chance to see their favorite characters take the stage once again Thursday night during a reunion show.

Friends is arguably one of the most successful sitcoms of all time, running for 10 seasons and 235 episodes from 1994 to 2004.
Theatres across the country have finally begun to open up again after a year of closure amid the coronavirus pandemic.

And AJ Pritchard and his girlfriend Abbie Quinnen made the most of it as they arrived for the Here Come the Boys show at The London Palladium on Wednesday.

The couple turned heads as they posed for pictured outside the venue in their return to the red carpet after Abbie suffered horrific burns in a freak fire accident while she was filming a YouTube video with the dancer in January.

Style: AJ Pritchard and girlfriend Abbie Quinnen looked effortlessly chic as they arrived for the Here Come the Boys show at The London Palladium on Wednesday

Abbie wore a pink and orange pattern mini dress with a contrast belt tie from Zara. She paired the ensemble with coral open toe heels and a small beige handbag.

Her blonde locks fell in loose curls and her make-up was neutral, enhancing her flawless complexion.

AJ wore a white open collared shirt with grey tailored trousers paired with navy blue suede loafers as he perfected the suave red carpet look.

The appearance comes after Abbie needed three skin grafts after a YouTube video she was filming with her boyfriend, 26, went horribly wrong and saw a wine bottle explode and set fire to her hair and clothing on January 19.

Recovery: The appearance comes after Abbie needed three skin grafts after a YouTube video she was filming with her boyfriend , 26, went horribly wrong and saw a wine bottle explode and set fire to her hair and clothing on January 19

She detailed the fears she felt for her life during the accident while her beau AJ spoke about how 'seconds felt like a lifetime' when he attempted to quell the flames consuming her during an appearance on Lorraine.

And despite the ordeal, Abbie remained positive about her recovery as she said: 'I'm doing OK a lot better than I was, that's for sure. My face has almost healed now.'

She continued: 'I think when it happened I was just thinking the worst, my face is never going to look the same again, I'm always going to have scars on my body...

'I'm never going to be able to dance or perform and do what I love doing, so I instantly thought that was it for me. Luckily my face is healing really well.'

Stunning: Abbie wore a pink and orange pattern mini dress with a contrast belt tie from Zara and paired the ensemble with coral open toe heels and a small beige handbag

Blonde bombshell: Abbie's blonde locks fell in loose curls and her make-up was neutral, enhancing her flawless complexion

The outing comes after AJ and his brother Curtis reacted to the backlash they've faced for appearing in Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks.

The brothers - who are professional ballroom dancers-turned-reality stars - play twins Marco and Jacob in the long-running soap; but their scenes have been going viral in the past weeks due to their 'wooden' acting.

Other soap actors - such as erstwhile EastEnders star Michael Greco and Hollyoaks' own Parry Glasspool - have since hit out at the Pritchards, and slammed casting directors for employing them, when there are trained actors looking for acting jobs.

Heading home: The couple were later seen hailing a taxi home after the show alongside AJ's Love Island star brother Curtis

Sitting pretty: The group seemed in good spirits on the way home from the show

In a chat with OK! Magazine, Curtis, 25, has claimed he wasn't aware of the slew of memes and clips circulating the internet branding their scenes 'painful to watch' as the brothers plot to ruin the career of dance teacher Trish, played by Denise Welch.

'Up to this moment I felt absolutely nothing about it because I hadn't realised anybody had said anything. We always get that, we always get different things and for me it's always about positivity,' he said.

AJ added: 'I've learned to go for the positives and not the negatives. If someone's got constructive criticism, 100 per cent that's great, but if it's just negativity then it's not something I'm going to waste my energy and time on that.'

Couple: AJ shared a slew of snaps beside Abbie ahead of their night out

Strike a pose: Abbie and AJ posed for a number of snaps in their home

Soap stars: This comes after AJ and his brother Curtis reacted to the backlash they've faced for appearing in Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks

Two scenes in particular have courted attention online - with fans claiming they're not sure whether the brothers are plotting to murder Trish or throw her a surprise party.

The boys are seen seething over her, with the latest viral clip featuring AJ dancing along the street having stolen Trish's 'little black book' of contacts.

Former EastEnders star Michael Greco, 50, who is best known for portraying Beppe DiMarco on the BBC soap between 1998 and 2002, branded their performance 'shocking.'

Viral: The brothers - who are professional ballroom dancers-turned-reality stars - play twins Marco and Jacob in the long-running soap but their scenes have been going viral in the past weeks due to their 'wooden' acting
Kourtney Kardashian has gotten candid about trying to get work done while lockdown gave her a break from her hyper-scheduled life.

The 42-year-old reality star was appearing on a new episode of a podcast hosted by her Tik Tok gal pal Addison Rae, 20.

And this Wednesday Addison, who co-hosts the show with her mother Sheri Easterling, posted a teaser of Kourtney's episode to Insta Stories.

Letting it out: Kourtney Kardashian has gotten candid about trying to get work done while lockdown gave her a break from her hyper-scheduled life

'New episode of That Was Fun tomorrow with a very special guest,' wrote Addison with a heart emoji over a clip of Kourtney on the show.

'I've really been enjoying the time off. My days used to be booked. The whole day would be booked until dinnertime usually,' said Kourtney.

'And so now Im in charge of being responsible almost for like getting things done,' she added in the heavily edited footage.

Cause then I think I have like the day. Im like: "Oh, I can make this phone call whenever," or: "I can do this." And then Im with the kids and things come up.'

Chitchat: The 42-year-old reality star was appearing on a new episode of a podcast hosted by her Tik Tok gal pal Addison Rae, 20

Family business: And this Wednesday Addison, who co-hosts the show with her mother Sheri Easterling, posted a teaser of Kourtney's episode to Insta Stories

Kourtney shared that 'Yeah, thats been hard is like, I need to schedule things into my day, I think to really get things done.'

The reality TV diva and the Tik Tok star became acquainted because Kourtney's son Mason, 11, was apparently a big fan of Addison.

Since early last year the smoldering gal pals have been seen multiple times stepping out on the town together in Los Angeles.

Incoming: 'New episode of That Was Fun tomorrow with a very special guest,' wrote Addison with a heart emoji over a clip of Kourtney on the show

Adjusting: Kourtney shared that 'Yeah, thats been hard is like, I need to schedule things into my day, I think to really get things done'

Kourtney shares her three children - Mason, 11, Penelope, eight, and Reign, five - with her sizzling ex-fiance Scott Disick.

Scott, 37, is currently involved with Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin's daughter Amelia, who is the latest in his string of teenage girlfriends.

Amelia is 19, Scott started dating his previous girlfriend Sofia Richie when she was 19 and before that he was linked to Bella Thorne when she herself was 19.

Gal pals: Kourtney and Addison are pictured on Instagram indulging in a spot of retail therapy recently

Meanwhile Kourtney is currently involved with Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker, 45, whose ex-wife Shanna Moakler has accused her of 'destroying' her family.

Shanna, 46, has come in for fierce online criticism from her and Travis' daughter Alabama, 15, in recent weeks.

Both Alabama and her elder brother Landon, 17, have also had sharp words online for Shanna's boyfriend Matt Rondeau, 28.
Nicky Hilton Rothschild was spring chic as she stepped out in a pink accented Chanel ensemble during a family outing in NYC.

The 37-year-old hotel heiress and her banking heir husband of five years, James Rothschild, 36, were seen stopping at Little Cupcake Bakeshop in SoHo with their budding fashionista daughters Lily-Grace, four, and Teddy, three.

The always-stylish socialite looked every bit the doting mom as the family of four grasped hands on a beautiful evening in the city.

Pretty in pink: Nicky Hilton, 36, was spring chic as she stepped out in a pink accented Chanel ensemble with husband James Rothschild and their two daughters Lily Grace, four, and Teddy, three, in NYC

Nicky looked effortlessly put together in a pair of skinny jeans and delicate pink ballet flats which she spruced up with a playful top adorned with ice cream cones.

And she continued to lean into the ultra-feminine color as she carried an oversized quilted Chanel bag and the designer's signature tweed coat.

She tied her blonde locks up in a classic low bun and accented the look with diamond studs and a signet ring.

As the sun began to set she continued to hide her bright blue eyes behind a pair of brown frames while strolling with the family.

Budding fashionistas: Her adorable daughters clearly take after their mom in the style department as Teddy looked picture perfect in floral overalls and Lily-Grace wore a blue patterned dress

Sweet treat: The family swung by the Little Cupcake Bakeshop in the SoHo neighborhood of NYC for some sweet treats

Her adorable daughters clearly take after their mom in the style department as Teddy looked picture perfect in floral overalls with a peter pan collared blouse underneath and ultra glamorous pink sunglasses.

Lily-Grace also looked ready for spring as she held her mom and dad's hands in patterned powder blue dress with mint green flats and a hair bow.

After stopping at the upscale bakery, James made his way out with a box of pink cupcakes which were sure to be a delicious treat for the family.

The businessman let his ladies' style do the talking as he rocked understated khaki jeans and a simple white T-shirt.

Dressed for the occasion: Nicky played into the cupcake venture as she donned a top with artful ice cream cones

And from the looks of the photos it looked that the famed city was bustling with life as both Nicky and James walked back throngs of passersby who were also sans-face mask.

As of Monday New York state announced that all vaccinated patrons no longer have to wear face coverings outdoors.

Expressing her appreciation for the city which she calls home, Nicky quoted author Ellen R. Shapiro in a May 18th tweet that said: 'If you want to become a real New Yorker, there's only one rule: You have to believe New York is, has been, and always will be the greatest city on earth.'

Though she was born in NYC alongside sister Paris and brother Barron, the kids were largely raised in Los Angeles.

Perfect match: In a DailyMail.com interview Nicky called James 'the love of her life,' and Paris also agreed that they were a match made in heaven; pictured February 2020

Nicky and James met in 2011 at the wedding of Petra Ecclestone and James Stunt in Italy. Though the pair stay largely out of the spotlight he popped the question in 2014 in the middle of Lake Como after asking her parents' permission for her hand.

In a DailyMail.com interview she called James 'the love of her life,' and Paris also agreed that they were a match made in heaven to People.

'They're just perfect for each other. They're best friends. They're so loyal and they're so in love. They're the ultimate couple. They're like a prince and princess,' she said at the time.

And now that Paris is set to tie the knot to her prince charming Carter Reum, Nicky dished that despite her sister's glamorous image, she is very 'chill' when it comes to planning a wedding.

'Paris is the opposite of a bridezilla. She's almost too chill. She wants a beautiful wedding, she's not even looking for some big thing,' Nicky shared on The Drew Barrymore Show.
Farrah Abraham was snapped heading to dinner in Los Angeles on Tuesday evening amid her link to an ongoing case involving a California mayor who resigned facing allegations of sexual misconduct from Abraham and eight other women.

The 29-year-old reality star donned a gold shimmering jacket with a sheer fringed top and brown leather skirt, rounding out the flashy ensemble with strappy gold heels, earrings and a necklace as she went to the upscale restaurant Craig's.

The MTV reality star is among the nine women who have accused former Windsor, California mayor Dominic Foppoli of misconduct, as she filed claims of 'sexual battery' against the politician last month, according to a police report, the San Francisco Chronicle reported earlier this week.

Out and about: Farrah Abraham, 29, was snapped heading to dinner in Los Angeles on Tuesday evening amid her link to an ongoing case involving a California mayor who resigned facing allegations of sexual misconduct from Abraham and eight other women

The Council Bluffs, Iowa native, who's also been seen on Ex on the Beach, Celebrity Big Brother and Couples Therapy, accused Foppoli - who resigned last week from his post - of 'sexual battery' using his 'hands/feet/teeth' in an incident at a Palm Beach, Florida home in March.

Palm Beach Police Captain Will Rothrock told the paper that there 'is an active and ongoing investigation and in order to preserve the integrity of it, there is nothing else we can release at this time.'

Spencer Kuvin, a lawyer for the TV personality, who is mother to 12-year-old daughter Sophia, told the paper that 'some of the evidence provided to police were photographs of the injuries she sustained' in the incident.

The lawyer said Foppoli 'will come up with as many ideas for the defense as possible and claim that it was all consensual even when it clearly was not, so we are being intentionally careful with everything we share.'

Stylish: The reality star donned a gold shimmering jacket with a sheer fringed top and brown leather skirt

Abraham rounded out the flashy ensemble with strappy gold heels as she went to the upscale restaurant Craig's

Foppoli resigned from his post in the Sonoma County town last week.

Town Manager Ken MacNab told the paper of the resignation, 'We are relieved to have this negative and tragic chapter behind us ... we can now turn to helping everyone who has been impacted by these allegations to heal.'

Foppoli last week denied claims of sexual misconduct brought by Abraham and his other eight accusers, the paper reported.

Self-care: Abraham has taken a 'mental health break' amid the tumultuous timeframe, her lawyer said

Abraham accused Foppoli, who has resigned, of 'sexual battery' using his 'hands/feet/teeth' in an incident at a Palm Beach, Florida home in March

In a statement, the politician said he 'recently learned that a woman in Palm Beach, Florida is accusing me of non-consensual acts while I was visiting there in March of this year ... I have no doubt she is making these allegations in an attempt to leverage the situation to her advantage.'

Abraham, who consented to being named by the San Francisco Chronicle in their report, has taken a 'mental health break' amid the tumultuous timeframe, her lawyer said.

Said Kuvin, 'Its difficult for her, given her high-profile nature, and shes seeing a lot of things posted online that she would like to be able to respond to. But she is doing as best as she can to stay away from the internet, because there is also a lot of hateful things as well, which hurts her feelings.'
Isla Fisher is filming the drama series Wolf Like Me for streaming platform Stan.

And on Wednesday, the Australian actress, 45, was pictured on set in Sydney with her co-star Josh Gad.

Josh, 40, is best known for being the voice of Olaf in the Frozen franchise and for starring in The Book of Mormon musical.

Working: Isla Fisher was pictured on the set of Stan's Wolf Like Me in Sydney on Wednesday

Isla looked fun and flirty in a floral dress and a pair of black stockings.

She was carrying a puffy parka in one hand and accessorised with a red leather handbag.

Back in April, Stan announced that Wolf Like Me would be filmed in Australia.

The upcoming series is written by Aussie filmmaker Abe Forsythe, and is based on his own life experience.

Floral: Isla, 45, looked fun and flirty in a floral dress and a pair of black stockings

In a hurry? The flame-haired actress walked briskly towards the filming location

Accessory: Isla was carrying a puffy parka and accessorised with a red leather handbag

It tells the story of a fortysomething single parent, with Josh and Isla heading up the show's cast.

The six-part series will also be directed by Forsythe, 39, and is being made in conjunction with NBCUniversal's streaming service Peacock in the U.S.

Each episode of the drama series will run for 30 minutes.

Project: Back in April, Stan announced that Wolf Like Me would be filmed in Australia

Writer: The upcoming series is written by Aussie filmmaker Abe Forsythe, and is based on his own life experience

Matching: Isla's young co-star was also dressed in a floral frock

Josh will play Gary, while Isla will play Mary, two strangers who are brought together in a twist of fate.

Gary is described as an 'emotional wreck', who 'struggles to provide for his daughter since the death of his wife'.

Meanwhile, 'Mary has a secret she can't bring herself to share with anyone'.

Co-star: Isla was joined on set by American actor Josh Gad

Filmography: Josh is best known for being the voice of Olaf in the Frozen franchise and for starring in The Book of Mormon musical

Is it cold? Josh and a member of the crew were both rugged up in warm jackets

In a statement to Stan, Forsythe said: 'Wolf Like Me is a very meaningful project for me, the stakes are extremely high but grounded by things we can all relate to.

'I'm so excited to have Isla and Josh on board, and I know the audience will be surprised seeing them in a different way as these characters.'

Isla was last seen in Curb Your Enthusiasm and the movie Godmothered.
She arrived on the sunny Spanish island of Mallorca earlier this week.

And Dame Joan Collins looked as elegant as ever as she attended a press event for a new villa in the popular holiday spot on Wednesday after flying in from the UK.

The actress, 88, looked typically stylish in a blue patterned dress which she teamed with a chic white blazer as she took a tour of the stunning house.

Glamorous: Dame Joan Collins looked as elegant as ever as she attended a press event for a new villa in Mallorca on Wednesday after flying in from the UK

Spain is currently on the UK's amber list of countries and travel there for holidays is discouraged.

A representative for Joan confirmed she has travelled to the Spanish island for work.

Dame Joan showed off her youthful figure in the midi number which featured statement sleeves and was cinched in at the waist.

She completed her look with a pair of huge black sunglasses, black and white pointy heels and accessorised with silver jewellery.

Star: The actress, 88, looked typically stylish in a blue patterned dress which she teamed with a chic white blazer as she took a tour of the stunning house

Radiant: The star looked radiant in her blue dress as she attended the event at the villa

The star wore her dark tresses in her classic blow dried style and opted for a typically glamorous makeup look complete with a slick of bright red lip.

While travel to amber list country Spain is currently discouraged, the screen legend previously spent time in the Spanish capital to film scenes for the medieval series Glow and Darkness, in which she played Queen Adelaide of Savoy.

A representative for Dame Joan has been contacted by MailOnline for a comment.

Style: She completed her look with a pair of huge black sunglasses, black and white pointy heels and accessorised with silver jewellery

Stunning: Dame Joan showed off her youthful figure in the midi number which featured statement sleeves and was cinched in at the waist (pictured with German Tv presenter Frauke Ludowig)

If you do travel to an amber list country, you will need to quarantine for a period of 10 days at home on your return to the UK and take a pre-departure test, plus a PCR test on day two and day eight.

Alternatively, you can pay for an additional Test to Release on day five to end self-isolation early.

The government may spot check you to see if you're isolating when you return home and you could face up to a 10,000 fine if you don't quarantine.

Gorgeous: Dame Joan posed up a storm at the event alongside the property's estate agent Marcel Remus

Wow: The actress- who turned 88 last week - had all eyes on her as she posed on the villa's huge balcony

Having fun: Dame Joan looked like she was having a great time at the event as she posed for the camera with the villa's estate agent

Elegant: Dame Joan's smart but summery outfit was perfect for the glamorous property event in Mallorca

Holidaymakers visiting amber list countries also risk invalidating their travel insurance amid confusion over government advice, experts have warned.

Spain began accepting British tourists without a negative Covid test from last Monday but their travel cover is likely to be void if they visit the country, they said.

It means families could be hit with bills of thousands of pounds if they suffer illness or an accident while abroad.

And pose: She stood on the villa's balcony as she worked her best angles for the camera

Travel: It is not known why she has flown to the Spanish island but she did work on a TV project in Madrid last year

Lockdown: Spain began accepting British tourists without a negative Covid test from last Monday (pictured is Dame Joan posing at the event in Mallorca)

A sea of orange: Portugal is the only major tourist destination on Britain's 'green list', meaning people can go without the need to quarantine

Which 'amber list' European countries can Britons visit without having to quarantine? All these European countries are on the UK's amber list, meaning passengers returning to Britain must stay at home for ten days and take a PCR test on days two and eight - as well as a lateral flow test before the return flight. They can also pay for 'Test to Release' on day five to end self-isolation early. But that is proving no deterrent to people flying to Spain - with all the amber list countries below allowing entry to UK citizens with no quarantine requirement: Albania Armenia Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Estonia Greece Italy Kosovo Malta Moldova Montenegro North Macedonia San Marino Serbia Slovenia Spain Ukraine Advertisement

The risk also applies to the United States, Italy and most of Greece.

The validity of policies is governed by travel advice from the Foreign Office and not the 'traffic light system' introduced a week ago, said Malcolm Tarling of the Association of British Insurers.

Despite Spain welcoming UK tourists the Foreign Office warns against 'all but essential travel' to the country, apart from to the Canaries.

International travel appears to be picking up across Europe, with Airbnb bookings across the continent only four per cent below 2019 levels, according to holiday market monitors AirDNA.

Last week the UK's traffic light policy descended into farce, with ministers accused of sowing 'mass confusion'.

On Tuesday, the system's second day in force, Environment Secretary George Eustice suggested trips to amber countries to see friends and family were acceptable.

But hours later the PM insisted such travel was off limits, and later hardened his stance by saying trips to amber nations should only take place in 'extreme circumstances'.

Meanwhile, health minister Lord Bethell claimed holidays anywhere abroad were 'dangerous', bringing even tourism to green list destinations into doubt.

On Wednesday it was revealed the Dynasty diva is getting rid of a few pieces of jewellery, which will go under the hammer at Bonhams Fine Jewellery sale next month.

'I buy jewellery for myself as a reward,' the actress says of her collection. 'I think more women should do it  you don't have to wait for men.'

Although this time round she is including items bought for her by men  several, in fact  including two of her ex-husbands, and a former fiance.

There's a stunning coral and gold brooch which was a birthday present from her second husband, the late actor Tony Newley. 'I had to drop a lot of hints for that,' she says. It is estimated to fetch between 3,000-4,000.

And a gold bracelet worth 2,000 which was a gift from husband number three.

'This was given to me by my husband Ron Kass, father of my daughter Katyana,' Joan explains. 'He gave me this gorgeous gold bracelet when I was in hospital having just given birth to Katy in 1972.'

There's also a glamorous gold and turquoise necklace given to her by Warren Beatty, to whom she was briefly engaged in 1960.

Sale: On Wednesday it was revealed the Dynasty diva is getting rid of a few glitzy knick-knacks which will go under the hammer at Bonhams Fine Jewellery sale next month

One-of-a-kind: The sale also includes the gold necklace she bought in California to celebrate getting her role as Alexis in Dynasty

'We were living in New York in the apartment of Paul and Joanne Newman, and Warren had just landed a role in Splendour In The Grass,' Joan recalls. The item has an estimate of 2,000-3,000.

The sale also includes the gold necklace she bought in California to celebrate getting her role as Alexis in Dynasty. 'I always like to buy myself something when I get a new job,' she says.

'I do hope my jewels in the sale will inspire women. Now we are edging into a more normal life, aren't we all looking forward to putting on a fabulous frock, piling on jewellery and plunging into the fray?'

She isn't including any gems given to her by her current (fifth) hubby, producer Percy Gibson.

Star: Joan recently channelled her inner Marilyn Monroe and transformed into a blonde bombshell for her role in new film Tomorrow Morning

Dame Joan's outing came after the actress debuted a striking new look.

The actress channelled her inner Marilyn Monroe for her latest role  taking on a bombshell blonde look.

Pictures from the film set of Tomorrow Morning show Dame Joan looking as ageless as ever in a black top, white blazer and with golden, curly hair.

It's not the first time the star has changed her style for a role.

In 1980, she wore a cropped blonde wig for an episode of Tales of the Unexpected and also in US show Blondes vs Brunettes in 1984.

The norm: The star is known for her voluminous raven hair which is usually brunette (pictured with darker tresses in 2020) but has gone blonde for her new role

Dame Joan, who turned 88 last weekend, is the latest addition to the film version of the 2006 off West End musical.

It follows the story of one couple told at two different points in their lives.

She plays Anna, the grandmother of leading character Catherine, played by Samantha Barks.

Filming started in London's Wapping last week and is expected to be shown in cinemas next spring.
Johnny Ruffo's girlfriend Tahnee Sims has given fans an update on his brain cancer battle as he continues to fight the disease for a second time.

On Wednesday, Tahnee shared a photo to Instagram of the former Home and Away actor, 33, receiving treatment in hospital.

Johnny smiled while sitting in a hospital chair during his chemotherapy treatment.

Brave battle: Former Home and Away star Johnny Ruffo returned to hospital for treatment on Wednesday as he battles brain cancer for the second time

It comes after the pop singer shared a picture of himself as he enjoyed a two-week break from cancer treatment.

'Got a two week break from treatment, had to go and see Nonna... It's been far too long. Talk about a food coma,' he wrote on Instagram.

In the photo, Johnny appeared to be in good spirits as he held up a bottle of orange juice in one hand and a glass in the other.

'Had to go and see Nonna': It comes after the actor and singer, 33, shared this photo of himself on social media as he enjoyed a two-week break from cancer treatment

The soap star was surrounded by an array of food, including pasta dishes, cheese, bread and olive oil spread.

Johnny - whose girlfriend Tahnee has been by his side throughout his health struggles - revealed on November 24 he was once again fighting brain cancer.

'After an unexpected week of seizures and excruciating headaches it is with a heavy heart that I have to let you know I now have another huge battle ahead of me as my brain cancer has returned,' he wrote on Instagram.

Devastating news: Johnny - whose girlfriend Tahnee Simms has been by his side throughout his health struggles - revealed on November 24 he was once again fighting brain cancer

Johnny was first diagnosed with the disease in 2017 after he went to hospital with painful migraines.

In August of the same year, he had a 7cm brain tumour surgically removed, before undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Johnny rose to fame on talent show The X Factor in 2011, where he placed third. He later portrayed Chris Harrington on Home and Away from 2013 to 2016.
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Irina Shayk put on a fashion forward display on Wednesday afternoon as she ran errands in New York City.

The 35-year-old supermodel rocked a pair of baggy vinyl trousers that she tucked into some black combat boots.

Shayk's outing comes amid rumors that she is currently 'dating' rapper Kanye West, who is in the midst of a divorce from wife of six years Kim Kardashian.

Style icon: Irina Shayk put on a fashion forward display on Wednesday afternoon as she ran errands in New York City

Irina completed her errand run ensemble with a white tank top bodysuit and a loose fitting short sleeve shirt that she left unbuttoned.

As for accessories, the runway maven wore two cross necklaces and a pair of silver hoop earrings.

Shayk carried her essential belongings in a black leather handbag that she kept tucked under her arm as she strolled.

Her brunette hair was worn down and she concealed her bright blue eyes behind a pair of stylish silver framed shades.

Edgy: The 35-year-old supermodel rocked a pair of baggy vinyl trousers that she tucked into some black combat boots

Contrast: Irina completed her errand run ensemble with a white tank top bodysuit and a loose fitting short sleeve shirt that she left unbuttoned

In order to deter the spread of covid-19, Irina donned a face mask for the duration of her afternoon errand run.

On Tuesday, a source wrote into the Instagram-based celebrity gossip site DeuxMoi claiming Shayk was romantically linked to West.

'Kanye West is now secretly dating Irina Shayk aka Bradley Cooper's baby mama,' wrote the source, which was shared to DeuxMoi's Instagram Story.

The anonymous figure behind DeuxMoi replied to the tip with: 'After further looking into this, I don't know if "dating" is the right word, but there is perhaps some interest there.'

Could it be? Shayk's outing comes amid rumors that she is currently 'dating' rapper Kanye West, who is in the midst of a divorce from wife of six years Kim Kardashian; Kanye pictured in 2019

Seeming to double down on earlier 'dating claims,' another tipster insisted to DeuxMoi that Irina and Kanye ''Def dating.'

Though the pairing may appear random to some, Irina and Kanye have been connected for more than a decade.

Back in 2010, the runway maven was a featured player in West's Heaven-inspired Power music video, where she portrayed an angel.

Specifically, Shayk sported a revealing gold getup and a pair of CGI angel wings.

Connections: Though the pairing may appear random to some, Irina and Kanye have been connected for more than a decade

Power: Back in 2010, the runway maven was a featured player in West's Heaven-inspired Power music video, where she portrayed an angel

Just two years later, the Russian-born beauty put her modeling skills to the test as she graced the runway for West's Fall/Winter fashion collection at Paris Fashion Week.

Another link between the pair occurred as recent as last month, with Irina having sported a DMX shirt designed by West in collaboration with Balenciaga.

Famously, Irina was romantically involved with actor Bradley Cooper, whom she shares four-year-old daughter Lea De Seine with.

Irina and Bradley began seeing each other in 2015 and moved quickly with their relationship, as they welcomed Lea two years after they initially met.

Although the two were often spotted together in public over the next few years, their partnership came to an end in 2019.

Angelic: Specifically, Shayk sported a revealing gold getup and a pair of CGI angel wings

Fashion: Irina has found herself intertwined with Kanye's fashion endeavors over the years, first appearing a fashion show for the rapper in 2012 before rocking his Balenciaga collaboration in April 2021

Cooper and Shayk have remained on good terms, and the actor moved to New York City in order to be closer to his daughter and former girlfriend.

Prior to beginning a relationship with the A Star Is Born director, she was in a high-profile relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo for several years.

Kanye's nearly seven year marriage to Kim Kardashian came to an end in February, with the reality TV sensation filing for divorce.

According to People, the Stronger rapper filed his response for divorce in early April, where he asked for joint legal and physical custody of their children.

The estranged pair share daughters North, seven, Chicagos, three, and sons Saint, five, and Psalm, two.

Former flame: Famously, Irina was romantically involved with actor Bradley Cooper; Irina and Bradley pictured in 2018

Co-parenting: Irina shares four-year-old daughter Lea De Seine with Bradley; Irina and Lea pictured on May 19

The source also stated that, despite any rumored tension between Kim and Kanye, their divorce proceedings are going 'smoothly.'

They continued: 'Kim and Kanye are getting along. They have both stayed true to their commitment to make the best situation for the kids.

'Kim is very happy that they have managed to keep things calm,' the source claimed, adding that Kardashian thinks West is 'a good dad' and that she wants him 'to be able to spend as much time with the kids as he wants.'

The insider added that Kim 'seems happier' 'for every week that goes by since she filed for divorce.'

Divorce: Kanye's nearly seven year marriage to Kim Kardashian came to an end in February, with the reality TV sensation filing for divorce; Kim and Kanye pictured in 2016

She 'known that filing for divorce was the right decision. The kids are doing as she could hope.'

After her February filing, Kim and the children have continued to stay at their $60 million Hidden Hills mansion she previously shared with Kanye.

Although the source added that Kim is 'not looking for anyone right now', they continued: 'She's not looking to jump into anything but is keeping an open mind.'

It comes after it was recently reported that Kanye is looking to date an 'artist and creative person' once their divorce is made final.

Joint custody: According to People, the Stronger rapper filed his response for divorce in early April, where he asked for joint legal and physical custody of their children

Smoothly: The source also stated that, despite any rumored tension between Kim and Kanye, their divorce proceedings are going 'smoothly'; Kim and Kanye pictured in 2019

Kim and Kanye were friends for years, with Kim even marrying Kris Humphries in 2011 and divorcing him 72 days later during their friendship.

Kim and Kanye became romantic in spring 2012 and got married on May 24, 2014 in Florence, Italy after enjoying celebrations in Paris, France.

Just this past weekend, Kardashian sparked romance rumors of her own as she was spotted arriving to 'mysterious' London billionaire Jamie Reuben's star studded birthday bash in Beverly Hills.

The swanky bash took place one day before her seventh wedding anniversary to Kanye.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson has been cast as Kraven The Hunter.

It was revealed on Wednesday that the actor, 30, had landed the role of the Spider-Man villain, who will be receiving a solo spin-off from Sony akin to Venom.

According to reports from Deadline, Aaron was offered the part after footage of him in his new flick Bullet Train impressed director J.C. Chandor.

Exciting: Aaron Taylor-Johnson has been cast as Kraven The Hunter in Sony's solo spin-off for the Spider-Man villain, it was revealed on Wednesday (pictured in 2019)

The publication claimed that Aaron's scenes with co-star Brad Pitt were so good that the filmmaker immediately got on the phone with him to discuss playing the Russian villain.

Kraven first appeared in Marvel comics in The Amazing Spider-Man in 1964, and as well as being one of Spider-Man's most ominous foes he is also a founding member of The Sinister Six.

Aaron is no stranger to the superhero genre, in particular the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as he previously played Pietro Maximoff, late brother to Wanda aka Scarlet Witch.

Right person: According to reports from Deadline , Aaron was offered the part after footage of him in his new flick Bullet Train impressed director J.C. Chandor

Cast: It was claimed that Aaron's scenes with co-star Brad Pitt were so good that the filmmaker immediately got on the phone with him to discuss playing the Russian villain (pictured in 2019)

Kraven has nearly appeared multiple times as the villain in existing movie series, but never made the cut.

The current Spider-Man film series, which sees Tom Holland take on the titular role, was said to be featuring Kraven in its third instalment, which is currently in production. But this idea was scrapped.

Prior to this, Kraven was set to appear in The Amazing Spider-Man 3, but this film series never made it past a second film.

He was also due to appear in The Sinister Six - another film that never came to fruition.

Adversary: Kraven first appeared in Marvel comics in The Amazing Spider-Man in 1964, and as well as being one of Spider-Man's foes he is also a founding member of The Sinister Six

The character has been a strong fixture in the Spider-Man comic book series, and his aim is to kill Spider-Man to prove himself as the world's greatest hunter.

However, Kraven maintains a code of honor and justice, treating his adversaries as equals.

Despite cropping up in video games, he is yet to appear in a film - with the forthcoming flick seemingly giving him the starring role he deserves.

Whether writers are hoping Spider-Man actor Tom, 24, will appear, is yet to be determined.
Ashley Tisdale draped her post-baby body in a denim romper while out in Los Angeles this Thursday.

The 35-year-old High School Musical actress slipped into a white T-shirt, accessorizing with a salmon cross-body bag.

Her latest appearance comes two months after she and her husband Christopher French welcomed their firstborn daughter Jupiter Iris.

Looking fab: Ashley Tisdale draped her post-baby body in a denim romper while out in Los Angeles this Thursday

Ashley warded off the California rays with a pair of aviators and swept her blonde hair into a bun for her latest outing.

After announcing her pregnancy last September and going public with the sex in October she revealed last month that the baby was born March 23.

Ashley broke the news by posting a heart-melting black and white snap that showed little Jupiter's hand resting in hers.

She shared pictures of her baby's face for the first time this past Sunday in honor of Mother's Day and has posted even more since then.

Off she goes: The 35-year-old High School Musical actress slipped into a white T-shirt, accessorizing with a salmon cross-body bag

Legging it: Ashley warded off the California rays with a pair of aviators and swept her blonde hair into a bun for her latest outing

'To be a mom,' she reflected in the caption of her Mother's Day post last weekend. 'You dont know how hard it is until you become one.'

The onetime Disney Channel star wrote: 'Mothers you are truly goddesses and single moms you are my superheroes.'

Ashley, who married Christopher in 2014, gushed: 'The past 6 weeks have been such a blessing. Jupiter you are everything and more.

Baby mine: Her latest appearance comes two months after she and her husband Christopher French welcomed their firstborn daughter Jupiter Iris

Her pregnancy was not without its issues as she revealed that while she was expecting she suffered from plantar fasciitis.

The medical condition has the nickname 'policeman's heel' and involves pain caused by inflamed tissue between the toes and heel.

She wrote on Insta Stories while pregnant: 'It literally hurts to walk on my feet. I've never felt pain like this and I'm hoping once the baby is here it lets up.'

The Scary Movie 5 actress allowed: 'I know there could be worse things but for someone who is constantly on their feet it can be pretty unbearable.'
She's the ever-youthful model who recently celebrated her 40th birthday in tropical Costa Rica.

And on Wednesday, Tina Louise set hearts racing with a series of racy bikini photos shared to Instagram.

The businesswoman put on a busty display in a tiny black bikini as she showed off her sensational figure poolside at a luxury resort.

Eye popping! Model and businesswoman Tina Louise put on a busty display in a tiny black bikini on Wednesday after celebrating her 40th birthday in Costa Rica

She swept her blonde bob under a black scarf and accessorised with retro shades.

The tattooed bombshell, who is dating Selling Sunset star Brett Oppenheim, said in the caption she was 'having a blast' on her birthday trip.

Among the photos she shared was a picture of herself revealing her trim and toned figure in the racy two-piece while strolling along a boardwalk.

Tina, who has previously dated Brian Austin Green and P. Diddy, enjoyed some 'me time' as she celebrated turning 40 on Tuesday.

Stylish: She swept her blonde bob under a black scarf and accessorised with retro shades

Bikini babe: Among the photos she shared was a picture of herself revealing her trim and toned figure in the racy two-piece while strolling along a boardwalk

The Australian beauty, who boasts 2.5million followers on Instagram, showcased her curves in a photo shoot earlier in the week in Costa Rica.

She donned a green bikini and jumped in a pool for the shoot for a few photos.

Tina looked sensational as she frolicked in the pool while celebrating alongside a female friend at the stunning location.

Glamazon: The Australian beauty, who boasts 2.5million followers on Instagram, showcased her curves in a photoshoot earlier in the week in Costa Rica. She donned a green bikini and jumped in a pool for the shoot for a few photos on Tuesday

Rocking: The Australian model donned a green and revealing bikini as she jumped in a pool for the shoot

The tattooed beauty confirmed her relationship with Brett last month when they went Instagram official on holiday at an undisclosed location.

The swimsuit-clad duo looked playful as they strolled along the golden sand in photos shared to Instagram.

It's unclear how long they have been a couple.

Time to party: Tina looked sensational as she frolicked in the pool while celebrating alongside a female friend at the stunning location

The social media star was first linked to Brian Austin Green in May 2020 after the actor separated from his estranged wife Megan Fox.

In October, Tina was spotted making out with rap mogul Sean Combs on a Malibu beach, but it's unclear if they were ever an official item.

Tina hasn't spoken about her past high-profile relationships.
She's the former glamour model who became a tabloid favourite after her brief stint on Sam Wood's season of The Bachelor in 2015.

But after leaving the spotlight for a quieter life in her native New Zealand, Zilda Williams has resurfaced with a new style.

The 37-year-old now has a chic bob cut instead of the blonde bombshell hair extensions she used to wear.

Remember me? For Bachelor star Zilda Williams (pictured in 2015) has resurfaced with a brand new look after retreating from the spotlight

Besides changing her hair, Zilda barely seems to have aged a day since her time on reality television.

These days, the former Bachelor star and Maxim model has left her hard-partying life in Sydney and the Gold Coast behind for a professional career in Auckland.

The Kiwi stunner now works as an accounts manager for a major company.

She also stays fit by doing MMA training, and has even been spotted with New Zealand-based UFC champion Israel Adesanya on several occasions.

Stunning! The 37-year-old now has a chic bob cut instead of the blonde bombshell hair extensions she used to wear. Pictured in 2021

All smiles: Zilda couldn't wipe the smile off her face at a recent gathering with friends

During her modelling days, Zilda graced the pages of FHM, Maxim, and Zoo, and appeared in commercials for brands like Lynx and Foxtel.

She was also famed for her FF-cup breast implants, which she later downsized after experiencing back pain and health issues.

The erstwhile reality star took her chest down to a more modest DD, but they later ballooned back to a EE after she gained weight.

Working hard: Zilda's fresh new look comes after she turned to MMA training to help her achieve her trim and toned figure

Champion in the making! The Kiwi-born beauty often trains in MMA gyms to stay fit

'My back pain is unbearable and I can't find many clothes that fit the rest of my body,' she said in 2015, before her first breast reduction.

She also revealed that despite being a size 8, her huge bust forced her to buy size 12 clothes which she then had to have altered to fit her body.

In 2016, Zilda confessed to Daily Mail Australia that she'd suffered some 'complications' from her reduction surgery.

Flashback: Zilda was famed for her FF-cup breast implants, which she later downsized after experiencing back pain and health issues (pictured in 2015)

'I actually had some complications that I didn't even tell anyone about in the beginning,' she said.

'And I kept that to myself because it was a private battle so it's been a really long road, but it's all good now.'

Declining to specify what the exact problem was, Zilda simply said: 'It's something that's very common but it was quite serious and it was a real battle.'
Nine months after the tragic passing of beloved actor Chadwick Boseman, his alma mater Howard University announced plans to honor him in a special way.

The private Washington D.C. university announced Wednesday they re-naming their newly re-established College of Fine Arts after the actor, according to a university press release.

The news comes just weeks after the university, which Boseman graduated from in 2000 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in directing, announced another famous alum, Phylicia Rashad, was named as the dean of the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts.

Honoring Chad: Nine months after the tragic passing of beloved actor Chadwick Boseman, his alma mater Howard University announced plans to honor him in a special way

The news is quite fitting, since, while he was a student, Boseman lead protests against the school absorbing the College of Fine Arts into the College of Arts and Sciences.

Several years after graduating, Boseman and other alumni continued engaging the university in re-establishing the College of Fine Arts, which Howard announced in early 2018.

'When Chadwick Boseman returned to campus in 2018 to serve as our commencement speaker, he called Howard a magical place,' said Howard University President Wayne I.A. Frederick.

Fiting: The news is quite fitting, since, while he was a student, Boseman lead protests against the school absorbing the College of Fine Arts into the College of Arts and Sciences

'During his visit, I announced our plans to reestablish the College of Fine Arts and he was filled with ideas and plans to support the effort in a powerful way,' Frederick added.

He added that the announcement comes with the support of Boseman's wife, Simone Ledward Boseman, and the Chadwick Boseman Foundation.

Frederick also announced that Walt Disney Company Executive Chairman Bob Iger has, 'graciously volunteered to lead the fundraising effort to build a state-of-the art facility and endowment for the college.'

Support: He added that the announcement comes with the support of Boseman's wife, Simone Ledward Boseman, and the Chadwick Boseman Foundation

Boseman's family thanked Frederick and the school's Board of Trustees, 'for honoring our beloved Chad with the renaming of the reestablished College of Fine Arts.'

They also thanked Iger, 'for spearheading the fundraising efforts of this development.

'Chadwick Boseman was an extraordinarily gifted, charismatic and kind-hearted person whose incredible talent and generous spirit were clearly reflected in his iconic performances, including as King TChalla in Black Panther, and in his tireless commitment to helping others,' Iger said in his statement.

Thanks: Boseman's family thanked Frederick and the school's Board of Trustees, 'for honoring our beloved Chad with the renaming of the reestablished College of Fine Arts'

'Through his tremendous example he inspired millions to overcome adversity, dream big and reach beyond the status quo, and this College named in his honor at his beloved Howard University will provide opportunities for future generations of artists to follow in his footsteps and pursue their dreams,' Iger added.

The new state-of-the-art facility will house the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts, along with the Cathy Hughes School of Communications and the Universitys television and radio stations, WHUT-TV and WHUR 96.3 FM.

Fans can donate to the fundraising campaign at Giving.Howard.edu/BosemanCollegeofFineArts.
Vanessa Redgrave won't appear in what is being pegged as Kevin Spacey's 'comeback' film, The Man Who Drew God.

The actress, 84, was attached to the project, which is being directed by her husband Franco Nero, 79.

It was believed she would appear in a small role opposite Spacey, 61, who is taking on the role after a series of sexual harassment and abuse allegations were made against him, removing him from the acting world for three years.

Politely declining: Vanessa Redgrave won't appear in what is being pegged as Kevin Spacey's 'comeback' film, The Man Who Drew God

However, a statement released by her representatives on Wednesday said: 'Vanessa Redgraves name is being included in recent stories relating to the casting of the upcoming film The Man Who Drew God.

'While there have been discussions about the possibility of her joining the cast, she will not appear in the film.'

It was added that she would not be commenting further on the matter.

The film, known in Italian as Luomo Che Disegno Dio', will reportedly see Spacey play a detective who investigates a wrongly-accused paedophile.

It comes after Spacey's career collapsed following a string of sexual misconduct claims were made by underage men.

Couple: The actress, 84, was attached to the project, which is being directed by her husband Franco Nero, 79 [pictured 2019]

Producer Louis Nero recently told Variety that Redgrave was set to appear as a piano teacher, as long as Covid travel restrictions permitted her to get from the UK to Italy to film.

This factor was not addressed in her rep's statement.

Redgrave is a six-time Oscar-nominated actress, scooping the coveted gong in 1977 for the film Julia.

Her next projects include The Lost Girls and Alice, Through the Looking.

Former friends? Spacey and Redgrave are pictured together in New York in 2001

The Man Who Drew God sees Nero himself play a blind artist, who is able to use people's voices to draw their exact physical features. But as his fame and popularity grows, he wrongly becomes accused of sex abuse.

Spacey could begin filming for the production shortly, according to the Telegraph, in what would be his first major performance since the abuse scandal erupted.

Spacey had been one of Hollywood's biggest stars but faced scandal after claims he sexually assaulted Star Trek actor Antony Rapp, who was 14 at the time.

It sparked accusations by other men about his behaviour but none have ever reached court and have been denied.

Actors: The pair are seen at the London Evening Standard Theatre Awards, at the Royal Opera House in London in 2009

Rapp's public comments about him prompted Spacey to come out as gay in 2017.

He said he did not remember such an encounter with Rapp but apologised if the allegations were true.

Last year he compared his fall from grace to the coronavirus pandemic, and complained about losing his job following the accusations.

Spacey described his 'painful' journey three years after he was accused of assault by a string of men and said he could relate to workers who had been laid off during the Covid-19 spread.

Happy: Redgrave married Nero in 2006, having known one another for years [pictured in 1970] and while he will direct the film his wife will not star in it

In comments for an interview for the Bits & Pretzels podcast, said: 'I don't think it will come as a surprise for anyone to say that my world completely changed in the fall of 2017.

'My job, many of my relationships, my standing in my own industry were all gone in just a matter of hours.'

Not only did he get fired from Netflix hit House Of Cards, he was also removed from the completed movie All The Money In The World, which was reshot with actor Christopher Plummer in his role.

Spacey, who has not appeared in a professional movie or series since the accusations were made, said: 'I don't often like to tell people that I can relate to their situation because I think it undermines the experience that they may be having which is their own unique and very personal experience.'

Spacey added: 'But in this instance I feel as though I can relate to what it feels like to have your world suddenly stop.

'And so while we may have found ourselves in similar situations, albeit for very different reasons and circumstances, I still believe that some of the emotional struggles are very much the same.

'And so I do have empathy for what it feels like to suddenly be told that you can't go back to work or that you might lose your job and that it's a situation that you have absolutely no control over.'
After months of defending the Duchess of Sussex, Australian radio host Jackie 'O' Henderson has now decided she's 'anti-Meghan Markle'.

The 46-year-old got into a heated discussion about the royals with her KIIS FM co-host Kyle Sandilands on Thursday, conceding she's changed her mind about Meghan.

Although she was sympathetic at the time of Meghan and Prince Harry's tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey in March, Jackie admitted: 'The more I sit back and think about it, the more I don't like what happened there.'

Changing her mind: After months of defending the Duchess of Sussex, Australian radio host Jackie 'O' Henderson (pictured) said on Thursday she is now 'anti-Meghan Markle'

The radio hosts were discussing Harry's latest sit-down with Oprah for the Apple TV+ documentary series The Me You Can't See when Kyle steered the conversation towards the Prince's wayward youth.

'Remember when we thought Harry was going to get with Britney Spears?' he asked, referring to rumours that plagued the young royal when he was a teenager.

'Well, I think he's gone the wrong way anyway. I think he's made a mistake with Meghan,' Jackie replied, leaving Kyle stunned by her apparent backflip.

The self-confessed Duchess of Cambridge super-fan then said she turned on Meghan after she claimed during her Oprah interview that Kate Middleton had 'made her cry' at her wedding to Harry in May 2018.

Time doesn't heal all wounds: Although she was sympathetic at the time of Meghan (right) and Prince Harry's (left) tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey in March, Jackie admitted: 'The more I sit back and think about it, the more I don't like what happened there'

'I thought she threw Kate under the bus in that interview. I thought that was really unnecessary,' she said.

Jackie acknowledged Kate may have acted like 'a b***h' on the Sussexes' wedding day, but by Meghan's own admission she had apologised afterwards and they'd moved on.

She explained: 'Well, you know what, don't throw her under the bus, because it's unnecessary! Like she even said, "I don't dislike Kate, she apologised," so really...

'The more I sit back and think about that interview, the more I don't like what happened there.'

'Don't throw Kate under the bus': Jackie acknowledged Kate Middleton (left) may have been 'a b***h' on the Sussexes' wedding day - but she didn't understand why Meghan (right) had blasted her in her Oprah interview given that she'd apologised afterwards and they'd moved on

Feud: 'I thought [Meghan] threw Kate under the bus in that interview. I thought that was really unnecessary,' Jackie said. 'She even said, "I don't dislike Kate, she apologised," so really.' The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are pictured on their wedding day in May 2018

'I don't mind Harry,' Jackie went on to say.

'I don't know. I'm torn. I think they should be able to say what they want, but I just didn't like what Meghan said about Kate.'

The pair then turned their attention to Harry's interview from The Me You Don't See, in which he criticised his grandmother the Queen and his father Prince Charles.

Fired up: Kyle (right) and Jackie then turned their attention to Harry's interview from The Me You Don't See, in which he criticised his grandmother the Queen and his father Prince Charles

'I don't know what's going to happen with this whole thing - but if he keeps b***hing about his granny, and she dies, I'll be very angry,' Kyle, a staunch monarchist, said.

He then became riled up, saying it was unfair for Harry to make such hurtful comments about the Queen, who is known to love him deeply.

'He said his father [Charles] hated the way his father [Prince Philip] brought him up, that his father brought him up that way and he's "ending the trauma now",' Kyle said.

'That means his grandmother and grandfather. He's having a go at her. She's 100-years-old for God's sake!' The Queen is actually 95.
She just launched her own 818 Tequila brand.

And Kendall Jenner certainly looked like a boss as she donned a stylish grey vest top to run some errands around Los Angeles.

While out and about the 25-year-old supermodel rocked a pair of fitted black trousers, Birkenstocks and her dark tresses in loose waves.

Looking effortlessly cool less than a week after her star-studded tequila launch party on Friday, the entrepreneur appeared at ease on her laid-back outing.

Chic: Kendall Jenner highlighted her svelte physique in a stylish grey vest top as she ran some solo errands around Los Angeles

Despite facing accusations of cultural appropriation tied to the new ad campaign for her tequila brand, she's been focusing on her latest business venture and fitness.

On Wednesday, the beauty shared a selfie from one of her grueling gym sessions, in which she wore a black and electric green unitard, which hugged every inch of her toned physique.

As she posed for a mirror selfie with her phone in front of her face, Jenner stood in front of some a variety of gym equipment with a stern expression.

Stylish: While out and about the 25-year-old supermodel rocked a pair of fitted black trousers, Birkenstocks and her dark tresses in loose waves

Off-duty model: Looking effortlessly cool less than a week after her star-studded 818 tequila launch party on Friday, the entrepreneur appeared at ease on her laid-back outing

She also teased the final installment of her four-part video series, Open Minded, for Vogue, which is out on Thursday.

Jenner is slated to sit down with Lori Gottlieb, a psychotherapist, best known for her weekly 'Dear Therapist' column for The Atlantic, about anticipatory anxiety.

Anticipatory anxiety, according to Healthline, 'describes fear and worry around bad things that could happen.'

Staying busy: Despite facing accusations of cultural appropriation tied to the new ad campaign for her tequila brand, she's been focusing on her business and hitting the gym

Symptoms can include difficulty concentrating, emotional numbness, sleep problems, nausea, appetite loss, muscle tension and more.

While chatting with Dr. Jorge Partida of the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health earlier this month, she admitted her 'relationship with social media is a bit addictive.'

'I don't like [it] and I'm not proud to say that,' the reality star said. 'But, I also feel like that's something that probably most of us can relate to.'

Deep conversations: Jenner is slated to sit down with Lori Gottlieb, a psychotherapist, best known for her weekly 'Dear Therapist' column for The Atlantic, about anticipatory anxiety

Speaking of social media, she added: 'There's just literally too much. I find that the more I'm looking at the screen, the more detached I feel with my own body or to what's happening right in front of me.'

The eldest daughter of Caitlyn and Kris Jenner said that 'there really is no escaping it,' as she remains one of the most followed celebs on multiple platforms, including 163 million followers on Instagram and 31.4 million more on Twitter.

Kendall, who is currently dating Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker, said aspects that upset her are the quick judgments made by people online without regard to context or accuracy, and 'the amount of negativity that' she sees.

'Something that boils my blood, that really frustrates me and I think upsets me the most is when it's someone claiming a false narrative for me,' she said. 'The Internet, I guess, bases things off of such small moments with no context.

Jenner said she's rankled by 'something as simple as [people] didn't like what I looked like in [a] photo,' adding, 'Because of social media, everything is highlighted, everything is heightened whether good or bad.'

She also spoke of being a 'real hypochondriac' at times and experiencing times where she felt she needed 'to be rushed to the hospital' because she thinks her 'heart's failing' or that she's 'dying.'
Samantha Ware

Glee actress Samantha re-ignited rumors of Lea Michele's alleged bad behavior on-set, when she responded to Michele's post regarding the death of George Floyd earlier this week. Ware, 33, said: 'Remember when you made my first television gig a living hell?!?!... 'Cause I'll never forget... I believe you told everyone that if you had the opportunity you would 's*** in my wig!' amongst other traumatic microaggressions that made me question a career in Hollywood.'

Kicking off: Samantha Ware made claims about Lea Michele earlier this week.

Alex Newell

Alex - who starred as Unique Adams on the series for four seasons - promptly aired his feelings on Twitter. 'We ain't got not a damn thing to lie about 6 years later!' he replied to one fan who suggested they were making false accusations about Michele's behavior.

Dabier Snell

Actor Dabier Snell, who appeared in one episode of Glee, claimed he wasn't allowed to sit with Michele on set, saying: 'GIRL YOU WOULDNT LET ME SIT AT THE TABLE WITH THE OTHER CAST MEMBERS CAUSE 'I DIDNT BELONG THERE' F--K YOU LEA.'

Bad memories: Lea on Glee with Chris Colfer and Heather Morris

Heather Morris

Morris, 33, who played cheerleader Brittany S. Pierce on the Ryan Murphy show, claims Michele was 'very' unpleasant to work with, saying: ''Was she unpleasant to work with? Very much so; for Lea to treat others with the disrespect that she did for as long as she did, I believe she SHOULD be called out.'

Melissa Benoist

Supergirl star Melissa Benoist, who appeared on Glee with Lea Michele, liked a series of posts describing star's bullying and abusive behavior toward castmates. Benoist appeared on Glee's fourth season playing a character named Marley Rose. She sang a duet with Michele on the series. She also pressed the heart button on tweets from Glee's Alex Newell and Amber Riley that essentially endorsed the spirit of Ware's sentiments

Amber Riley

Riley, who played Mercedes Jones in the through all six seasons, shared two GIFs of herself following the allegations, one raising her hand, while the other sipping tea. The response caused a stir among fans who saw it as a subtle way of the actress chiming in. Later, she made clear she wasn't focused on the controversy amid the turbulent times of social unrest in the wake of George Floyd's killing, and would only speak on the topic once while appearing on Instagram Live. She said, 'I don't give a s*** about this Lea Michele thing - I really don't give a f*** ... people are out here dying and being murdered by police. I don't give a s*** about this Lea Michele thing - I wish her well, I hope she has an amazing pregnancy, I hope that she has grown.'

RHONY's Aviva Drescher

Even Real Housewives of New York star Aviva Drescher had a story to tell, commenting: 'You were once very unkind to me so I am not surprised by your behavior. You shouldn't judge others before looking in the mirror.' Michele made disparaging remarks about Drescher during an episode of Andy Cohen's Watch What Happens Live.

Awkward: Lea slated Aviva on a 2014 appearance on Watch What Happens Live!

Abigail Breslin

Scream Queens actress Breslin, 24, was another former co-star who was caught 'liking' a smattering of tweets about the controversy. Including one that read: not everyone agreeing that something felt off about Lea Michele where have yall been ive BEEN saying this FOR YEARS??? i thought i was alone.'

Yvette Nicole Brown

Actress Yvette Nicole Brown also gave her support to Ware. 'I felt every one of those capital letters,' the Community actress tweeted 'EVERY person on a set matters. EVERY person on a set deserves respect. And it is the RESPONSIBILITY of every series regular to make EVERY person who visits their home feel welcome. This dismissive attitude is whats wrong in Hollywood AND the world.'

Marcel Spears

The Mayor actor reacted to an array of replies to Ware's initial tweet, including one directly asking Yvette Nicole Brown: 'I assume u feel the same since u worked with her?'

Under fire: Lea Michele in

Gerard Canonico

Broadway actor Gerard Canonico, 30, was an understudy in the original Broadway cast of Spring Awakening starring Michele and her BFF Jonathan Groff. 'You were nothing but a nightmare to me and fellow understudy cast members. You made us feel like we didnt belong there,' Canonico wrote in a comment on her Instagram apology, which he had re-posted after claiming it had initially been deleted.

Elizabeth Aldrich

Actress Elizabeth Aldrich - who was Michele's understudy in Ragtime - claimed on Twitter: 'She was absolutely awful to me and ensemble. She demeaned the crew and threatened to have people fired if she was in anyway displeased. I used to cry every night from the mean and manipulative things she would do. She was 12. She was terrifying.'

Iqbal Theba

Glee co-star Iqbal Theba said he was not mistreated by the star and took to Twitter to write: 'Lot of people r assuming that @LeaMichele mistreated me. Let me state it clearly that I was never mistreated by her. And if some of the cast were treated badly then she has apologized for it which is wonderful. But being called a racist is too heavy & unfair a burden 4 most of us, specially in these troubled times.'

Plastic Martyr

Trans model Plastic recalled an incident with Lea in the women's bathroom at the 2010 Emmy Awards. She told The Sun: 'She goes, ''Excuse me?'' and she looks at her friends, looks at me again, and says, ''Excuse you, you're in the woman's bathroom''. I went from feeling like I was on cloud nine to feeling like a circus freak.'

Dean Geyer

Dean Geyer - who played Brody Weston, the boyfriend of Michele's character Rachel Berry, for 14 episodes - had nothing but nice things to say about her. 'Lea is still one of my favourite co-stars that I have had the pleasure of working with. She is extremely hard working and super fun to be around,' he said.

Jordan Pruitt

The Voice star Jordan Pruitt chimed in on Friday, tweeting: 'Everyone in Hollywood KNOWS that Lea Michele is a horrible human being . she is a B**** to everyone. We all know it  yawn. Moving on '
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Parkway Drive drummer Ben Gordon has sold a documentary about the metalcore band to Netflix, despite being a vocal critic of the streaming platform's controversial 'docu-soap' Byron Baes.

While the irony might seem surprising, the musician - who also owns the Byron Bay General Store cafe - clarified that his issue is not with Netflix itself but simply the concept of the reality show and its potential impact on the Byron Bay community.

He told The Daily Telegraph on Thursday: 'My issue with Byron Baes was never about Netflix, it was about the content of the show and its potentially damaging effects to our hometown.'

'Byron has been bombarded with pressures': Parkway Drive drummer Ben Gordon (right) has sold a documentary about the metalcore band to Netflix, despite being a vocal critic of the streaming platform's controversial 'docu-soap' Byron Baes. The band are pictured in 2018

Ben added: 'Byron has been bombarded with external pressures over the last several years and the announcement of Byron Baes was in a way the straw that broke the camel's back.'

While he acknowledged the show - which is currently in production - had caused problems for the town, he also praised Netflix for buying the rights to the Parkway Drive documentary.

'The fact that Netflix will be streaming Viva the Underdogs is commendable as it is a genuine Australian story that embodies hard work, perseverance, self belief and friendship, which I think a lot of Australians will relate to,' he said.

Viva the Underdogs follows the Byron Bay metalcore group's preparations for headlining the German music festival Wacken Open Air in 2019.

Hurting the town: While the irony might seem surprising, the musician - who also owns the Byron Bay General Store cafe - clarified that his issue is not with Netflix itself but simply the concept of the reality show and its potential impact on the Byron Bay community

Boycott: Ben previously led calls to snub the Netflix production - and called on other Byron Bay businesses to do the same. Pictured on stage with Parkway Drive

Ben previously led calls to snub the Netflix production - and called on other Byron Bay businesses to do the same.

He told the Today show: 'They've simply turned up unannounced and they are proposing to drag our name through the mud, and make millions of dollars without offering anything back to the community.'

Netflix was recently forced to apologise to the stars of Byron Baes after describing them as 'influencers' and 'hot Instagrammers' in a press release.

The streaming giant's Director of Originals in Australia, Que Minh Luu, confirmed the cast 'hated' the wording and some even threatened to pull out.

New movie: Viva the Underdogs follows the Byron Bay metalcore group's preparations for headlining the German music festival Wacken Open Air in 2019. Ben is pictured in 2018

'They are artists, musicians, entrepreneurs, business owners, models, on a spiritual journey and more,' Ms Luu said, apologising for the wording.

Ms Luu was responding after many mocked the press release, which read in part: 'It's not just Chris and Zac's backyard, it's the playground of more celebrity-adjacent-adjacent influencers than you can poke a selfie stick at.'

Meanwhile, Netflix's Director of Public Policy Nick O'Donnell, recently travelled to the NSW town 'for crisis talks with stakeholders' in response to the ongoing backlash.
Tiger King star Carole Baskin has weighed in on who she thinks should portray her on the big screen.

The animal rights advocate, 59, spoke to Studio 10 on Wednesday, and named a very ambitious choice to play a fictional version of herself.

'I think someone like Meryl Streep is a little more my age and maybe more my personality,' said Carole.

Wish list: Tiger King star Carole Baskin (pictured) has weighed in on who she thinks should portray her on the big screen

The zookeeper was responding to reports that Saturday Night Live star Kate McKinnon had signed on to play her in a forthcoming NBC TV series.

The show is based on a Wondery podcast series about the true crime case.

'I was so honoured that they would pick somebody like Kate McKinnon, because she is such a talent and she is so beautiful,' Carole said.

'But she could only play, like, the twenty-year-old me,' she continued, before naming the three-time Oscar winning actress as her ideal pick.

American Pie actress Tara Reid, 45, has also been the subject of rumours she could play the cultural icon in a rival project.

Sky's the limit: The animal rights advocate, 59, spoke to Studio 10 hosts Angela Bishop and Craig Bennett on Wednesday, and named a very ambitious choice: Meryl Streep

First up: The zookeeper was responding to reports that Saturday Night Live star Kate McKinnon (pictured in 2019) had signed on to play her in a forthcoming NBC TV series

Carole's comments come just days after a jaguar became the last of the 68 big cats to be removed by federal agents from the private Oklahoma zoo once run by her jailed nemesis Joe Exotic.

The zoo was owned by Jeff Lowe - another one of the notorious stars of the Netflix docuseries.

The U.S. Justice Department began seizing the 68 lions, tigers, lion-tiger hybrids and jaguars last Thursday after they raided Lowe's newly-established 'Tiger King Park' in Thackerville, Oklahoma - near the border of Texas - for ongoing Endangered Species Act violations.

Authorities claimed that Jeff and his wife, Lauren Lowe, had repeatedly violated laws requiring appropriate care for animals and had not complied with an order to hire a qualified veterinarian.

Straight to the top: 'I think someone like Meryl Streep (right in 2018) is a little more my age and maybe more my personality,' said Carole

Another contender: American Pie actress Tara Reid (pictured in March) has also been the subject of rumours she could play the cultural icon in a rival project

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) allegedly conducted three inspections of the park in the past six months.

The Lowes received 'citations for failing to provide the animals with adequate or timely veterinary care, appropriate nutrition'.

TMZ reported that inspectors noted that there was also inadequate shelter to protect the big cats 'from bad weather'.

'This seizure should send a clear message that the Justice Department takes alleged harm to captive-bred animals protected under the Endangered Species Act very seriously,' Acting Assistant Attorney General Jean Williams said Wednesday.

Federal law enforcement seized 68 lions, tigers, lion-tiger hybrids and a jaguar from an animal park owned by Jeff and Lauren Lowe - the stars of Netflix's blockbuster docuseries Tiger King

The Lowes previously owned the Wynnewood Greater Wildlife Park. That facility was once owned by Joe Exotic - the flamboyant lead star of Tiger King.

Wynnewood was the setting of the seven-part docuseries, which revolved around Exotic's bid to keep control of the animal park.

However, Exotic - whose real name is Joseph Maldonado-Passage - was arrested on charges of attempted murder and the Lowes later took ownership of Wynnewood.

They were forced to close the park last August after a USDA inspection there found multiple animal welfare violations.

Federal agents were in the park taking big cats since last week. The last one was taken on Sunday

Authorities claimed that Jeff and his wife repeatedly violated laws requiring appropriate care for animals so federal law enforcement took them away

Jeff Lowe claimed the USDA was accusing him of a 'litany of falsehoods' and blamed PETA 'spies' for the closure of the park.

'The very agency that has given my facility five consecutive perfect inspections, has now folded to the pressures of PETA and continue to make false accusations against me,' Lowe stated.

The Lowes moved their big cats to Thackerville, Oklahoma to create their new unlicensed wildlife park called 'Tiger King Park.'

But USDA continued to conduct inspections and the big cats have now been seized.

Lauren and Jeff Lowe took over the park after Joe Exotic's arrest but never opened it

The Justice Department says they want 'to ensure that [the animals] go to responsible animal preserves where they can be safely maintained rather than exploited'.

PETA released a statement saying 'the Lowes' reign of terror against threatened and endangered big cats may soon be over.

'If PETA has its way, these Tiger King villains will lose every other animal in their custody, too,' PETA official Brittany Peet said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the Lowes' co-star, Joe Exotic, remains behind bars serving out a 22-year-sentence.

He was convicted of hiring a hitman to kill animal rights activist, Carole Baskin, who runs Big Cat Rescue in Florida.
We're only a few episodes in, but the three finalists on Celebrity Apprentice Australia may have already been exposed.

As of Thursday afternoon, leading online bookmakers Sportsbet and TAB are both tipping Shaynna Blaze as the favourite to win the show.

The Block's interior design expert, 58, is Sportsbet's front-runner to win with odds of just $1.50, while TAB has her at even shorter odds of $1.12.

The secret's out? As of Thursday afternoon, leading online bookmakers Sportsbet and TAB are both tipping Shaynna Blaze (pictured) to win Celebrity Apprentice Australia

Rounding out Sportsbet's rumoured final three are fashion designer Camilla Franks, who has odds of $3, and radio host Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli, who is sitting at $10.

Meanwhile, TAB is tipping Ross Noble for second place at $5, while Camilla and Anthony Callea trail behind at $15 in joint-third position.

Celebrity Apprentice was filmed in Sydney in October and only a select few people know who makes it to the end.

Betting: Rounding out Sportsbet's rumoured final three are fashion designer Camilla Franks (pictured), who has odds of $3, and radio host Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli, who is sitting at $10

Number's don't lie! Meanwhile, TAB is tipping Ross Noble (pictured) for second place at $5, while Camilla and Anthony Callea trail behind at $15 in joint-third position

It comes after CEO Lord Alan Sugar revealed which Celebrity Apprentice stars riled him up the most during filming.

Appearing on The Kyle and Jackie O Show on Thursday, the 74-year-old admitted he was less than impressed with some of the cast.

The British billionaire confessed he did have a soft spot for Nova breakfast host Wippa, as well as kaftan queen Camilla.

Who's in his good books? It comes after CEO Lord Alan Sugar revealed which Celebrity Apprentice Australia stars riled him up the most during filming

Radio host Jackie 'O' Henderson later said she 'fell in love' with Shaynna on the show and asked Lord Sugar for his opinion.

'Oh. Right,' he gruffly replied. 'We were in the boardroom a couple of times and she looked like she was about to burst out into tears.'

Jackie and Lord Sugar both agreed Martha Kalifatidis was a breakout star. He even referred to her as a 'bright kid' and said she gets underestimated.

Celebrity Apprentice Australia continues Sunday at 7pm on Channel Nine
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Madonna's daughter Lourdes Leon had her naked body painted with a sexy miniscule top and mini hotpant design as she writhed around on the bed for a new fashion film for designer Barragan.

The celebrity offspring, 24, acted incredibly confident in the nearly two-minute piece, as her character Lola exacts revenge on a motel voyeur, who has made her - and only her - the objection of his obsessive affection.

Far from the clip being just about the dramatic storyline, Lourdes also modelled a variety of scantily-clad ensembles, including a plunging fringe dress with an exposed back - yet her most sizzling was undoubtedly her naked look with just paint covering her modesty.

Transformation: Madonna's daughter Lourdes Leon had her naked body painted with a sexy miniscule top and mini hotpant design as she writhed around on the bed for a new fashion film for designer Barragan

Body art: Her most sizzling was undoubtedly her naked look with just paint covering her modesty

The video left very little to the imagination with her racy appearance as the body paint just about concealed her assets, including a star adornment on her chest and 'denim shorts' on her bottom.

Lourdes' assets were the focus of screen time while she was rocking the body paint as the grey 'top' and red star emblazoned on her chest drew the eyes to her bust while her perky bottom was painted with a red logo.

The incredibly racy short kicks off with her character Lola arriving to a run down motel in a lived-in looking denim jacket and matching pants, before her state of dress decreases progressively.

Looking just like her famous mom, Lourdes rocked a bright blonde wig that flowed down to her waist and had Barragan's iconic 'B' sprayed on - in a look the Queen Of Pop has replicated on many occasions.

Sizzling: Looking just like her famous mom, Lourdes rocked a bright blonde wig that flowed down to her waist and had Barragan's iconic 'B' sprayed onto it

Oh my! Lourdes' assets were the focus of screen time while she was rocking the body paint as the grey 'top' and red star emblazoned on her chest drew the eyes to her bust while her perky bottom was painted with a red logo

Twins: Looking just like her famous mom, Lourdes rocked a bright blonde wig that flowed down to her waist and had Barragan's iconic 'B' sprayed onto it

She can be seen making a phone call, where she is telling someone that they are 'three hours late' before commencing the dark and sultry scenes in epic fashion.

Lourdes, eventually, enters the motel room and makes herself at home with a glass of wine and a new outfit.

Well aware she is being filmed and recorded by her seemingly illusive stalker, Lourdes' character Lola attempts to take some of her power back by 'putting on a show' of her own.

Revenge: In the nearly two-minute piece, Lourdes' character Lola exacts revenge on a motel voyeur, who has made her - and only her - the objection of his obsessive affection

Look book: Lola, which was published to Barragan's YouTube and Instagram pages, is a look book for Mexican designer Victor Barragan's SS21 collection

Thriller: 'The film is about a guy who spies on a woman and becomes increasingly more obsessed with her,' explained the film's director and photographer Mayan Toledano

Various clips of Lourdes parading around the motel room, smooching a stuffed bear, and puckering up for the camera play out on a display of television screens, with the voyeur looking on in amazement.

The briefest clip of the bunch showed Leon donning a pair of bright yellow 'Sexy Girl' panties styled with a green, white, and red crop top and an auburn wig.

Back in the motel room, Lourdes donned a stunning wavy brunette wig and an eye-catching finger party dress.

Lola commences with Leon arriving to a run down motel in a lived-in looking denim jacket and matching pants

Late! She is seen making a phone call, where she is telling someone that they are 'three hours late'

Taking control: Various clips of Lourdes parading around the motel room, smooching a stuffed bear, and puckering up for the camera play out on a display of television screens, with the voyeur looking on in amazement

She stares into the camera, fixing her lipstick and adjusting her purse over her shoulder, before shaking her backside.

The next shot shows Lourdes' blue-eyed voyeur tying his shoes and seemingly preparing to arrive to the motel to meet his muse.

In a single fade, the audience sees the voyeur on the ground dead, with a gaping wound on his head from a spiked weapon.

Voyeur: As Lourdes puts on her 'show,' the film cuts to the voyeur looking on in amazement

The briefest clip of the bunch showed Leon donning a pair of bright yellow 'Sexy Girl' panties styled with a green, white, and red crop top and an auburn wig.

Stunning: Lourdes modeled a variety of scantily-clad ensembles, including a plunging fringe dress with an exposed back

Standing beside his lifeless body, weapon in hand, is Lourdes in an all red early 2000s inspired outfit, complete with a stringy halter bra top and a slotted skirt.

She also had on a pair of black thigh high combat boots and her brunette hair was styled into a high ponytail with flaming red streaks.

As she retreats from the staged murder scene, Leon drags her weapon through the snow

Check her out: Back in the motel room, Lourdes donned a stunning wavy brunette wig

Twerk: She stares into the camera, fixing her lipstick and adjusting her purse over her shoulder, before shaking her backside

Lola, which was published to Barragan's YouTube and Instagram pages, is a look book for Mexican designer Victor Barragan's SS21 collection.

'The film is about a guy who spies on a woman and becomes increasingly more obsessed with her,' explained the film's director and photographer Mayan Toledano.

'With Lola, I wanted to switch the roles a bit, so she learns that she's being spied on and plays the part for it, to her own pleasure.'

According to the outlet, Mayan and her crew spent two days shooting the erotic-thriller at a motel on Long Island.

Madonna shares Lourdes, whom she welcomed in October of 1996, with her former partner Carlos Leon, 54. The 62-year-old pop sensation is also mother to five other children, four of whom were adopted.

Murder: In a single fade, the audience sees the voyeur on the ground dead, with a gaping wound on his head from a spiked weapon
Production on the new season of ABC comedy show Mad as Hell has been forced to shut down due to Melbourne's growing coronavirus outbreak.

Staffers were ready to film an episode of the program, hosted by comedian Shaun Micallef, in front of a live audience before the Covid situation escalated on Thursday.

The ABC told TV Blackbox that all studio audience members were contacted before the scheduled taping and told to stay at home and follow restrictions.

Shut down: Production on the new season of ABC comedy show Mad as Hell has been forced to shut down due to Melbourne 's growing coronavirus outbreak. Pictured: Shaun Micallef

The Victorian government's restrictions will take effect from 11:59pm on Thursday.

Last year, Mad as Hell went ahead with filming but without a studio audience.

As Melbourne's new lockdown is set to kick in, local TV productions have been thrown into chaos as restrictions take hold for the next week.

Halted: Staffers were ready to film an episode of the program, hosted by comedian Shaun Micallef, in front of a live audience before the Covid situation escalated on Thursday

Stay at home: The ABC told TV Blackbox that all studio audience members were contacted before the scheduled taping and told to stay at home and follow restrictions

Another production likely to be affected is The Real Housewives of Melbourne.

Victoria will enter a stage-three lockdown that will last for seven days, with schools closed and only five reasons to leave home - as a Covid cluster containing the highly infectious Indian strain grows to 26 with 11 new cases overnight.

Health officials and senior government ministers held crisis meetings on Wednesday night and announced a seven-day lockdown on Thursday, beginning at midnight.

Filming on hold: Another production likely to be affected by the stage-three lockdown is The Real Housewives of Melbourne (pictured filming earlier this week)

Lockdown begins: Victoria will enter a stage-three lockdown that will last for seven days, with schools closed and only five reasons to leave home - as a Covid cluster containing the highly infectious Indian strain grows to 26 with 11 new cases overnight

From midnight tonight, people will only be able to leave home to shop for food and essential items, provide or receive care, exercise and to work or study if they can't from home, and getting vaccinated.

Panic buyers began to strip Melbourne's supermarket shelves of toilet paper - with shoppers posting pictures of empty shelves just minutes after lockdown was announced.

There are now 80 exposure sites across Melbourne and regional Victoria, including the MCG and Marvel Stadium.
Hamish Blake hit Bondi Beach on Thursday with a camera crew in tow to film a new project.

The comedian was dressed in a wetsuit and had a surfboard with him.

After heading into the ocean with his board, the 39-year-old stretched in the sand and posed for the cameras.

Baywatch moment: Hamish Blake hit Bondi Beach on Thursday with a camera crew in tow to film a new project

While it's unclear exactly what he was filming, it's most likely something for Tourism Australia.

The LEGO Masters host and his wife Zoe Foster-Blake already appeared in one campaign commercial for Tourism Australia earlier this month.

The couple appeared on Sunrise, shortly after debuting their new tourism advert.

Wetsuit: The comedian was dressed in a wetsuit and had a surfboard with him

Stripes: The surfboard had a stylish design that featuring pink and black stripes

Mystery: While it's unclear exactly what he was filming, it's most likely something for Tourism Australia

But things took an awkward twist following a joke about the comedian's tight-fitting wetsuit he wore in the clip - with host Natalie Barr asking a question which had everyone scratching their heads.

'How embarrassed have you been?' Natalie, 53, said to Hamish, 39.

After a brief pause and a giggle, his wife Zoe, 40, laughed: 'Of him? In general?'

'...being on this campaign?' Natalie rapidly added, to a sea of laughter from the loved-up couple.

Chit chat: The 39-year-old was spotted chatting to a member of the crew

Stretch: After heading into the ocean with his board, Hamish stretched in the sand and posed for the cameras

Awkward: The comedian awkwardly spread his legs and thrusted his hips up for the camera

'OH! on the campaign. I was like, welcome to a special six hour edition of Sunrise!' Hamish joked.

Zoe quickly chimed in: 'We all actually put those [suits] on afterwards, as we just wanted to get in the water. He wore it well, I thought!'

'That's love!' Natalie's co-host David 'Kochie' Koch added.

Did you get the angle right? Hamish made sure that the cameraman got the right shot

Fit as a fiddle: Hamish stretched out his lower back with a yoga pose on the sand

Flexible! The LEGO Masters host showed off his extreme flexibility

In the advert, the duo chase waterfalls, go snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef and visit the stunning Kimberley region to encourage locals to explore Australia.

The commercial begins with the pair standing in front of the iconic Big Prawn in Ballina near Byron Bay, which is a hit with tourists on road trips.

'Oh Australia, no one loves the big things more than me. The big pineapple, big banana, big potato, prawny, but I reckon we can find an even bigger big thing,' Hamish begins in the clip, as they move from the Big Prawn to the Great Barrier Reef.

Quick change! Hamish was joined by a crew member as he changed at the boot of his car

Baring all: The star's bare shoulders were visible as he adjusted his wetsuit

'What about the big barrier reef?' Hamish says as he jumps into the crystal blue water in a bright blue wetsuit.

The pair soon head to South Australia's Kangaroo Island to eat lobster and admire seals on the beach.

They also explore the Purnululu National Park in Western Australia's Kimberley region, and go swimming in a waterfall at Litchfield National Park in the Northern Territory.

'You know Zo, I think Australia IS the big thing,' Hamish says as they float in the water.
Kim Kardashian spread some joy on Wednesday evening by sharing some adorable photos of her two middle children, Saint, 5, and Chicago, 3.

The 40-year-old reality star took to Instagram to share the new snaps, with a succinct yet fitting caption: 'OMGGGGG' along with two red heart emojis.

The photos come as rumors have surfaced that the children's father and Kardashian's estranged husband, Kanye West, is dating model Irina Shayk.

Adorable: Kim Kardashian spread some joy on Wednesday evening by sharing some adorable photos of her two youngest children, Saint, 5, and Chicago, 3

New snaps: The 40-year-old reality star took to Instagram to share the new snaps, with a succinct yet fitting caption: 'OMGGGGG' along with two red heart emojis

Kardashian's son Saint was wearing a red t-shirt with the number 54 in white, with his hair in corn rows.

The youngster also wore stylish camo pants with white sneakers while he posed for the snaps with baby sister Chicago.

Saint was all smiles while wrapping his arm around Chicago in one photo, while raising his arms in others.

Saint's look: Kardashian's son Saint was wearing a red t-shirt with the number 54 in white, with his hair in corn rows

Chicago was wearing a pristine white dress with a dark blue bedazzled denim coat over the dress.

She also wore bright red cowboy boots as she happily posed with her brother with a big smile on her face.

Kardashian shares Saint and Chicago, along with North, 7, and Psalm, 2, with Kanye West, who recently split after seven years of marriage.

Chicago's look: Chicago was wearing a pristine white dress with a dark blue bedazzled denim coat over the dress

The new snaps come after rumors surfaced that Kanye is now dating Bradley Cooper's ex, model Irina Shayk.

'Kanye West is now secretly dating Irina Shayk aka Bradley Cooper's baby mama,' a source told DeuxMoi.

However, another source claimed, 'After further looking into this, I dont know if dating is the right word, but there is perhaps some interest there.'

Rumors: The new snaps come after rumors surfaced that Kanye is now dating Bradley Cooper's ex, model Irina Shayk

West and Shayk are no strangers to each other, since Shayk appeared as an angel in the music video for West's 2010 song Power.

As for Kardashian, she was spotted attending the birthday party of British billionaire Jamie Reuben in Beverly Hills last weekend.

The reality star filed for divorce from West back in February, citing irreconcilable differences and agreeing to joint custody of their children.
Zara McDermott furiously hit back at a social media troll on Wednesday after they claimed she'd edited one of her Instagram snaps.

The former Love Island star, 24, took to social media to share sultry snaps of her curves clad in a skintight white dress after jetting to Portugal for a sunny getaway.

But Zara was forced to respond to a troll after they claimed one of the trees had become 'wonky' from her editing.

Nope! Zara McDermott, 24, furiously hit back at a social media troll on Wednesday after they claimed she'd edited one of her Instagram snaps

Zara looked sensational in the form-fitting white knitted dress with a black swirl print as she posed outside her luxurious hotel.

The star's post was soon flooded with complimentary messages from fans, but one was quick to question whether she may have edited her snaps.

They wrote: 'The trees wonky by her bum lol.'

Wow! The former Love Island star took to social media to share sultry snaps of her curves clad in a skintight white dress after jetting to Portugal for a sunny getaway

Hitting back! But Zara was forced to respond to one disgruntled fan after they claimed she'd altered her images due to the 'wonky' tree in the background

But Zara was quick to correct her, replying: 'The trees are all wonky. That's how they grow, have a look at all the trees in the pics.'

It came after Zara flaunted her sizzling physique in a busty black bikini as she soaked up the sun on her holiday on Wednesday.

She struggled to contain her ample assets in the plunging two-piece as she posed up a storm for the new Instagram snaps.

She teamed the bikini top with matching high rise briefs and completed the summer look with baggy red patterned trousers which she wore undone and low on her waist.

Sexy: It came after Zara flaunted her sizzling physique in a busty black bikini as she soaked up the sun on her holiday on Wednesday

Zara wore her honey tresses in loose waves over her shoulders and opted for a typically bronzed makeup look to show off her holiday glow.

The reality TV beauty has been sharing a series of sexy snaps to her Instagram from the trip which she took with newly-single Made In Chelsea star Ruby Adler, 24.

On Monday Zara set pulses racing as she showcased her impressive curves in a plunging navy bikini.

The reality star took to Instagram to share the sizzling snap as she worked her angles in the sultry swimwear.

Zara styled her caramel tresses into a windswept side pony tail for the glamorous beach photo shoot.

The beach babe enhanced her flawless complexion with full coverage make-up and emphasised her mouth with lashings of lip liner.
Ed Westwicks stunning girlfriend Tamara Francesconi has given fans a behind the scenes look at her latest PrettyLittleThing shoot, shortly after unveiling a new collection with the online retailer.

With sun-starved Brits preparing for their first post-lockdown holiday, the south African model has collaborated with the popular brand on a timely collection of summer-ready halternecks, bikinis and co-ords.

And after shooting an accompanying promotional campaign in Majorca, Tamara, 24, has shared a short montage video of her busy shoot on the idyllic Spanish island.

Here we go: Ed Westwicks stunning girlfriend Tamara Francesconi has given fans a behind the scenes look at her latest PrettyLittleThing shoot

After introducing her video, the model is seen gazing out at the ocean from a hotel balcony before cutting to an assortment of picturesque locations as she models her latest range.

Taking viewers from winding Majorcan roads to the sweeping Mediterranean sea, the short promo finds Tamara showing off her bronzed physique as she strikes a series of poses.

Venturing from the hotel pool to a vintage soft-top before finally boarding a luxury yacht, the model makes the most of the island's picturesque backdrops while posing for a range of exotic promotional stills.

All yours: The south African model has collaborated with the popular brand on a seasonal collection of summer-ready outfits

Looking good: Tamara showed off a range of bikinis and co-ords from the new collection during a location shoot in Majorca

Hard at work: A short montage video captures Tamara as she shoots her new campaign

Lovely: Another clip finds her pressed against a stone wall as she shows off her toned torso in a green crop top and high-waisted skirt

All at sea: Tamara later took to the water as a boat guided her across the Mediterranean

Hands on deck: The model struck a series of poses as her yacht sailed close to the Majorca coastline

Taking a dip: Tamara climbed back onboard the boat following a swim in the ocean

Speaking about her collection in May, Tamara said: 'Its one thing to be on a billboard but to see my name on a billboard is just too crazy.

'PrettyLittleThing x Tamara Francesconi is coming! Its so dreamy and shot in the most beautiful location! 26.05.21 save the date!'

Earlier this month, Tamara enjoyed a romantic few days with Ed, 33, at the exclusive Soho Farmhouse in the Cotswolds.

The brunette and her actor boyfriend also travelled to her native country in 2021, a few months after they celebrated their one-year anniversary.

The happy couple, who have been dating since October 2019, first got together after Ed slid into Tamara's DMs on Instagram.

Sitting pretty: The model wears a white crop top and lime green miniskirt from the new collection as she strikes a pose on a set of stone steps in Palma

Don't mind me: But Tamara is hard to miss in a striking white cut-out dress from the new collection

The good life: Ed's girlfriend makes the most of Majorca's glorious spring weather as she relaxes in a white crop top and matching flared trousers

Driving us crazy: Tamara got behind the wheel of a flashy vintage soft-top as her location shoot hit the road

She wears it well: The model's bronzed physique was well in evidence as she unveiled a striking brown bikini from the new PLT range

Talking about their relationship on social media, she said: 'Going to answer this first because it's my most asked question, and probably the reason a lot of you follow me.

'He direct message me out of the blue saying "Hi," and I nearly fell off my chair, we then chatted for a while and he asked me on a date, which I assumed would be a dinner.

'Instead he took me to a butterfly sanctuary in Mayfair, we thereafter spent the whole day exploring London together, and the rest is history.

'I feel like we have all become codependent with our partners this year (I know I have) I think it's really important to do things alone and for yourself, read a book, go for a walk, chat to a friend.' (sic)

Picture perfect: Tamara struck a sultry pose while behind the wheel of her stationary car

Green with envy: Her stunning figure was accentuated in a lime green cut-out, another highlight from the new range
Jules Robinson is on a mission to 'reshape the world' for women with her brand Figur.

And days after she celebrated the first anniversary of her shapewear collection, the Married At First Sight star posed for a photoshoot with 10 brand ambassadors modelling her designs in Sydney.

The 38-year-old handpicked the women of all different shapes and backgrounds for the body positivity campaign, having previously asked her Instagram fans to get involved.

EXCLUSIVE: Married At First Sight's Jules Robinson oozed confidence in a tan coloured Sheike dress and matching heels as she celebrates the anniversary of her FIGUR shapewear

In exclusively obtained photos from the photoshoot, Jules oozed confidence in a tan coloured leather Sheike dress and matching heels.

A second look saw the doting mother-of-one flaunt her figure in shapewear, posing alongside the models.

Each of the women stood with pride as they wore the compression garments.

Brave: The Married At First Sight star embraced body positivity as she posed with her new Figur brand ambassadors

With ambassadors ranging from a mum of three from Sydney's Western Suburbs to 87-year-old Patty and a pregnant dance teacher, the campaign honours diversity and body positivity, while recognising women of all ages, shapes and sizes.

'I want to make women feel beautiful and confident in the skin they're in,' Jules told Daily Mail Australia on Thursday.

'FIGUR was really something that stemmed from personal experience, and even more so when I started hearing so many stories from other women about shared experiences and battles we've faced, due to body image.'

Diverse: With ambassadors ranging from a mum of three from Sydney's Western Suburbs to 87-year-old Patty and a pregnant dance teacher, the campaign honours diversity and body positivity, while recognising women of all ages, shapes and sizes

Empowered: 'I want to make women feel beautiful and confident in the skin they're in,' Jules told Daily Mail Australia on Thursday

The reality star continued: 'I wanted to be apart of something that uplifted women, and turned negative into positive, in all shapes and sizes.'

'I'm so grateful for all the women who make Figur what it is. They're truly the backbone of the brand - I really feel like we're a part of something special.'

'It's about working what you got - and at the end of the day, all I really aim to do is empower women to be themselves, to show up and to kick arse, no matter what.'

Motivated: 'I wanted to be apart of something that uplifted women, and turned negative into positive, in all shapes and sizes,' she continued. Jules is pictured celebrating Figur's first anniversary in Sydney last week

Jules hosted a party to celebrate Figur's first anniversary in Sydney last week.

The event was attended by her husband, Cameron Merchant and fellow MAFS bride Cyrell Paule and her partner Eden Daly.

Also attending was Johnny Balbuziente and Kerry Knight, who appeared on the show earlier this year.

Guests were treated to a swanky swag bag which included gifts from Myles Gray, The Silver Collective, Davroe, Willow Bay, Nutra Organics and Cipriani Bellini.
They marked their 48th wedding anniversary in January.

And Michael Caine and his wife Shakira enjoyed an evening out at Oswald's private members club in London on Wednesday.

The actor, 88, cut a dapper figure as he departed the venue with his partner, 74, and left in a waiting car with friends.

Couple: Michael Caine and his wife Shakira enjoyed an evening out at Oswald's private members club in London on Wednesday

Michael, who recently gave up alcohol for health reasons, sported a navy blazer with matching trousers for the evening along with a light blue shirt and black shoes.

The King Of Thieves star used a cane while he walked, while he held on to his wife's arm for extra support.

He has used the cane since he suffered an ankle injury in 2018 after he fell on ice.

Former model Shakira looked elegant in an emerald green blazer which she paired with a black lace top and matching trousers.

Night out: The actor, 88, cut a dapper figure as he departed the venue with his partner, 74, and left in a waiting car with friends

She completed her look with a pair of black heels and pearl earrings.

Their romance has proved to be one of the longest marriages in showbiz, after tying the knot in Las Vegas in 1973.

In 2019, the veteran British actor revealed how he met the love of his life after seeing her star in a coffee commercial.

'I was at home and this commercial came on, for Maxwell House coffee. And there was this beautiful Brazilian girl,' he told Andrew Denton's Interview.

Loved up: Their romance has proved to be one of the longest marriages in showbiz, after tying the knot in Las Vegas in 1973. Michael first saw Shakira on a coffee commercial (pictured in 1972)

'I said to my mate "we're going to Brazil tomorrow - I have plenty of money, we're going to find her.''

Much to his surprise, his dream woman was not on the other side of the world, but instead a stone's throw away from where he was living.

The thespian reportedly called his future wife every day for ten days until she finally agreed to go out with him.

The couple have one daughter together, Natasha, 48, while the Alfie star has another daughter Dominique, 65, from his previous marriage with actress Patricia Haines.
Fiona Falkiner and Hayley Willis' baby son Hunter is only nine-weeks-old, but he's already proving to be quite the jetsetter.

On Thursday, Fiona, 38, shared an adorable photo of the little boy aboard an interstate flight.

In the picture, the tot is seen nestled in Hayley's arms as she keeps amused with her phone.

Frequent flyer! Fiona Falkiner and Hayley Willis' baby son Hunter is only nine-weeks-old, but he's already proving to be quite the jetsetter. Pictured, Hayley

Alongside the sweet picture, Fiona explained the parents were very nervous in the lead-up to their travels.

'I was so nervous to fly with little H, but honestly he pretty much slept the whole way,' she began.

'He may have had some blow outs, a few outfit changes but we managed pretty well!

'Proud of our boy 9 weeks old and already been to Vic and WA,' she added.

Proud parents: 'Proud of our boy 9 weeks old and already been to Vic and WA,' she added

On May 6, Fiona shared a picture of their little boy asleep while onboard an aircraft.

The model, who is originally from Victoria, captioned the video: 'Bubba's first flight! Off to meet his Nanny and Poppy Falkiner.'

Shortly after arriving in Melbourne, Fiona shared another image of the trio waiting for their ride home.

'First family trip home for Hunter to meet my folks. He is very excited,' she wrote.

We're here! Shortly after arriving in Melbourne, Fiona also shared this photo to Instagram of the trio waiting for their ride home

Fiona and Hayley welcomed Hunter into the world on Monday, March 22 - and announced his arrival via a sweet Instagram post.

Fiona announced her pregnancy in September, sharing a photo to Instagram of Hayley cradling her bump. They revealed they were expecting a boy the following month.

The couple became engaged in April 2019 while on holiday in Vanuatu, sharing the sweet moment to Instagram.
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She jet off to Portugal this week alongside pals Abbie Holborn, Sophie Kasaei and Bethan Kershaw.

And Chloe Ferry made the most of their girls' trip on Wednesday when she lapped up the sunshine alongside Bethan, 26, in a tiny yellow bikini which showed off every inch of her stunning figure.

Sprawling out on a sunbed, Chloe, 25, left little to the imagination in the show-stopping two-piece that featured chic chain detailing across the bust while she was slathered with suncream.

Oh my: Geordie Shore's Chloe Ferry sizzled in a tiny yellow bikini as she sprawled out on a sunbed in Portugal with co-star Bethan Kershaw

Shoes off: Chloe slipped out of her white slides - which sat at the foot of her sun lounger - so as not to end up with any awkward tan lines

Wearing her glossy brown hair loose and keeping the beating sun at bay behind a pair of oversized black sunglasses, the TV personality couldn't stop smiling as she enjoyed her sunny getaway with friends.

Chloe adorned her fingers with silver rings and also accessorised with a delicate necklace. The star was also sporting a pair of hoop earrings and made sure her glitzy belly button piercing was on full display.

The Newcastle native's various tattoos were also visible, including Chloe's rib cage inking and wrist artwork.

The brunette bombshell later took to Instagram to show off her eye-popping bikini, posing up a storm in a mirror in the skimpy yellow two-piece.

Wow: Chloe Ferry, 25, made the most of her girls' trip to Portugal on Wednesday when she lapped up the sunshine alongside Bethan Kershaw, 26, in a tiny yellow bikini

Wow: Chloe Ferry, 25, made the most of her girls' trip to Portugal on Wednesday when she lapped up the sunshine alongside Bethan Kershaw, 26, in a tiny yellow bikini

Stunning: Chloe proudly flaunted her gym-honed curves as she holidayed abroad

Bethan, meanwhile, opted for a multi-coloured bikini which also showed off her stunning curves.

The blonde beauty wore her hair swept into a ponytail and was also sporting a large pair of sunglasses.

The girls flew to Portugal on Tuesday and got picked up by a luxury taxi to take them to Leeds Bradford Airport.

Sizzling: Sprawling out on a sunbed, Chloe left little to the imagination in the show-stopping two-piece that featured chic chain detailing across the bust

All in the detail: Chloe was also sporting a pair of hoop earrings and made sure her glitzy belly button piercing was on full display

Hair up: The blonde beauty wore her hair swept into a ponytail and was also sporting a large pair of sunglasses

Jewellery: Chloe adorned her fingers with silver rings and also accessorised with a delicate necklace

Checking her phone: Bethan checked her phone as Chloe laughed at something off camera

Sun safe: Bethan made sure she lathered as much of Chloe's skin with sun cream as she could

As well as their girls' trip, the foursome were also celebrating the tenth anniversary of Geordie Shore, which started on 24 May 2011, as they let off party cannons and held a sign.

The foursome couldn't contain their excitement over their trip to Portugal as they took to social media to share several updates on their way to the airport and sipped on glasses of prosecco.

Portugal is one of the 12 countries currently on the UK's 'green list' following the easing of lockdown restrictions in Britain last week.

Idyllic: Chloe and Bethan's idyllic surroundings could be seen behind them - including lush green grass and tropical fauna

Roll over: Chloe maneuvered her body so that Bethan could better apply sun cream to prevent burning

The foursome have joined a collection of reality stars who have jetted off to the popular destination including Katie Price and Made In Chelsea star Tiffany Watson.

It comes after Chloe revealed that she is dating a new secret boyfriend last week and claimed that her flirty Celebs Go Dating co-star Wayne Lineker, 59, still wants to marry her - despite the fact they are 'just friends'.

Speaking to The Sun, the Geordie Shore star said: 'If Wayne could get his way and marry me he would.'

She added: 'He's one of my best friends in the whole world. I love him so much. We get on so well but we are just friends.'

Instagram: The brunette bombshell also took to Instagram to show off her eye-popping bikini

Stunning: Chloe posed up a storm in a mirror in the skimpy yellow two-piece

Helping hand: Bethan took her time covering every inch of her friend in SPF

Balmy weather: Portugal's balmy weather made a sunny change from the UK's drizzle and the TV stars were keen to make the most of the sunshine while they could

Wayne recently told The Sun that Chloe would be joining him in Ibiza for the summer so that they could spend some time together.

But Chloe retracted the holiday plans in her latest interview and said that she didn't think it would be possible for her to get to the party island.

'We are not a couple by the way. He wishes. We are just friends,' the reality star added as she put the final nail in their romance coffin.

Happy to be here: The girls flew to Portugal on Tuesday and got picked up by a luxury taxi to take them to Leeds Bradford Airport

Tattoos on show: Chloe's various tattoos were also visible, including Chloe's ribcage inking and wrist artwork
She's set to return to our screens on The Real Housewives of Melbourne.

But before she does, Gamble Breaux has ensured she's extra COVID-safe by getting her vaccine on Thursday.

Posting to her Instagram, the 48-year-old shared a video of herself in a surgical mask, as she got her jab.

COVID safe! On Thursday, Real Housewives of Melbourne star Gamble Breaux [pictured] shared footage of herself getting her COVID-19 vaccination

'COVID-19 Vaccination! Hugs to science,' the blonde beauty captioned her post.

The reality TV star also encouraged her followers to book their own COVID vaccinations.

Gamble's post comes two months after she confirmed she would be returning to the popular Foxtel series.

She will be joined by Janet Roach, and Jackie Gillies, who had previously quit after season four.

The new season will also see new arrivals in Simone Elliott, news anchor Anjali Rao, yoga teacher Cherry Dipietrantonio, and Champagne educator Kyla Kirkpatrick.

On April 14, the women attended a star-studded launch in Melbourne, which included Chrissie Swan and comedian Joel Creasey.

New cast! The Real Housewives of Melbourne confirmed its season five cast (pictured) at an event in Melbourne on Wednesday

The entire cast were dressed to the nines for the event to ensure that they'd stand out in their best designer outfits.

Janet looked chic in a long-sleeved blue patterned frock that cut off above the knee, while Jackie was mean in emerald green satin.

Gamble kept things fun and flirty in a blue and white maxi-dress with a ruffled, thigh high split, while newcomer Kyla stunned in a houndstooth frock with a plunging neckline.

Is everything okay? Janet shot Gamble a frosty stare for doing an awkward robot dance

Black and gold! Newcomer Simone Elliott stunned in a slinky black frock while Cherry Dipietrantonio glittered in gold

She's back! Despite quitting after season four, Jackie Gillies has decided to return to the show

Rounding out the women was Simone in a sparkly black dress, Cherry in a short gold number and Anjali in a silver ensemble.

The group all posed together like the best of friends, making it unclear if there are any rivalries among the cast yet.

According to the Herald Sun, Gina Liano departed the show to focus on her legal career.

The series was initially scheduled to film in March last year with Gina and Lydia, but it was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

They're out! Original cast members and fan favourites Gina Liano (right) and Lydia Schiavello (left) have both exited the show, leaving longtime viewers shocked

Gina, a barrister, expressed her reservations about returning to the controversial franchise in an interview last year.

'It's a big responsibility having a public profile, even though I swear and carry on and maybe act a bit irresponsible,' she previously told News Corp.

'I got back into my own life, it was peaceful and I quite enjoyed it and I was hesitant to come back only for that reason.

'I think there might be a time when I don't come back just because my life will keep moving.'

No premiere date has been confirmed for season five of The Real Housewives of Melbourne.
She shot to stardom after landing her first major film role in Much Ado About Nothing in 1993.

But Kate Beckinsale's cat Clive stole the show on Thursday as he wiggled his arms to the King Bee track, Back By Dope Demand, while she held him up in a hilarious new video.

The actress, 47, sat on a kitchen floor and her four-legged friend perched in between her legs while the classic hip hop record blared in the background.

Star in the making: Kate Beckinsale's cat Clive stole the show on Thursday as he wiggled his arms to the King Bee track, Back By Dope Demand, while she held him up in a hilarious new video

The Persian cat was clearly a fan of the song as he moved his arms in sync to the beat and looked up, appearing to be entranced by a video of the song.

Kate rocked chic activewear for the clip and tucked her lengthy brunette tresses behind a white hairband.

The Pearl Harbour star mimed the lyrics to the track as she clutched Clive who stood on his hind legs.

She thanked her furry pal for their participation as she wrote online: 'I just really appreciate a joiner inner.' (sic)

Natural performer: The actress, 47, sat on a kitchen floor and her four-legged friend perched in between her legs while the classic hip hop record blared in the background

Cat of many talents: The Persian cat was clearly a fan of the song as he moved his arms in sync to the beat and looked up, appearing to be entranced by a video of the song

Kate is the mother to two feline friends called Willow and Clive, in addition to a Pomeranian dog called Myf.

The Underworld star always keeps her social media followers amused with chucklesome snaps and videos of her beloved pets.

Earlier in May, she posed one of her Persian cats in a yellow turban and said: 'My mate fancies you.'

In April, she shared a video carrying her three furry friends after she celebrated National Pets day.

In another clip posted in February, the crop-top clad actress performed an Oasis classic with the feisty feline, Clive, by her side.

Dance master: Kate rocked chic activewear for the clip and tucked her lengthy brunette tresses behind a white hairband as the mimed the lyrics to the track

Furry babies: Kate is the mother to two feline friends called Willow and Clive, in addition to a Pomeranian dog called Myf

Head scarf: Earlier in May, she posed one of her Persian cats in a yellow turban and captioned the upload: 'My mate fancies you'

She wowed as she showcased her taut abs in the tiny top, while an unimpressed Clive wore a tiny woollen hat, as the beauty lip-synced to Oasis' Champagne Supernova.

Kate displayed her honed legs in snakeskin print leggings and knee-high boots as she dramatically performed, while a feisty Clive put up with the unusual attire.

The Pearl Harbor star couldn't help but notice Clive's similarity to the famously steely Oasis frontman, writing: 'Clive got the big Liam energy', before posting a hilarious comparision shot of Liam in a similar woollen hat.

The week before, Kate made her cat Willow the star of the show , when she shared video of her pet looking unimpressed as she wore new pink winter woollies.

Live Purr-ever! In another clip posted in February, the crop-top clad actress performed an Oasis classic with the feisty feline, Clive, by her side

Uncanny: The Pearl Harbor star couldn't help but notice cat Clive's similarity to the famously steely Oasis frontman, writing: 'Clive got the big Liam energy' (R-Liam in 2000)

Looking svelte once more in a white Nike crop top with grey jogging bottoms, the actress was seen dancing around her kitchen to Billy Joel's '80s hit Uptown Girl, while Willow relaxed on the floor in her ensemble, barely batting an eyelid.

Wearing her chestnut brown locks in a bun with a black headband, the star stood tall in a pair of chunky white trainers as she tried to get her adorable pet excited.

However, her efforts appeared to prove futile as Willow relaxed on a striped rug in the galley kitchen without so much as glancing at the British actress.

Captioning the brief clip, the brunette beauty wrote: 'Trying to hype Willow up about her winter woolly has been low yield so far.'

Purr-ty in pink! Kate made her cat Willow the star of the show when she shared a video of her pet looking unimpressed as she wore new pink winter woollies
They've been ensuring to soak up lots of quality time together and plenty of date nights during their trip to New York City.

And Victoria Beckham appeared to be having a wonderful time as she cosied up to her beaming husband David, 46, in a snap shared to Instagram on Wednesday.

The designer, 47, looked sensational as she rocked a chic white blazer and silk shirt for their meal at Lucali in Brooklyn.

Loved-up: David and Victoria Beckham appeared to be in great spirits as they enjoyed another date night on Wednesday and headed to Lucali in Brooklyn

Victoria exuded style in jeans and her smart jacket, with the brunette beauty accessorising her look with a Hermes handbag and pair of sunglasses.

The mother-of-four wore her locks down, letting them cascade over her shoulders, and completed her stunning ensemble with a full face of makeup.

David also cut a dapper figure for the evening out with his wife, donning a smart suit and white shirt.

He also shared a slew of snaps from inside his 'favourite' Brooklyn restaurant to Instagram on Wednesday, showing they enjoyed pizza and pasta dishes.

Group trip: The couple were joined by several of their friends (L-R back: Zanna and Mazdack Rassi, Nick Brown and David and front row Victoria, Derek Blasberg and David Gardner)

Joining the couple at the meal were their pals Zanna and Mazdack Rassi as well as Nick Brown as well as Derek Blasberg and David Gardner.

Earlier in the day, the duo stepped out of The Mark Hotel for lunch at Bar Pitti, with Victoria rocking a sensational ensemble complete with a yellow jumper and coral trousers.

The former Spice Girl and David also chose to keep wearing masks despite the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently ruling the public can remove coverings outdoors.

Fan: David shared a snap of the restaurant's entrance, declaring it his 'favourite place in NYC'

'Friends and family night': The football legend looked delighted as he posed with their pals

Victoria was opting for citrus hues as she stepped out in the ensemble, which boasted alarmingly long trousers which concealed her heels.

David, meanwhile, looked dapper in a cream polo shirt that he tucked into a pair of pinstripe trousers that he accessorised with a brown belt.

Last month, the CDC said those who are fully vaccinated do not need to wear masks outdoors, and ruled unvaccinated Americans could remove their masks when exercising outside.

At the time, New York City Governor Andrew Cuomo confirmed that the state's own mask mandates would be changed in accordance with the CDC's recommendations.

Nice view: David gave fans a glimpse of his pasta dish and his wife across the table

Carb loading? He also showed a delicious looking pizza on the table

Night out: Sharing his delight at being back at his favourite eatery, David showed the chefs at work on his meal

Speaking at a press conference in Broome County, he said: 'New York has adopted that CDC guidance, so that's going to go into effect in New York state also.'

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.

Later on, David and Victoria made a quick outfit change before heading out later in the evening, with the fashion mogul wearing a lemon yellow jacket and shirt.

It comes after Victoria and David proved the magic is still alive after 22 years of marriage as they enjoyed other date nights earlier in the week.

Wow! Victoria rocked a sensational ensemble complete with a yellow jumper and coral trousers as she enjoyed lunch with David at upscale Italian eatery Bar Pitti on Wednesday

Stunner: Victoria wore her brunette locks in loose waves that framed her face well as she stepped out in NYC with David earlier on Wednesday

The star, who shares sons Brooklyn, 22, Romeo, 18, Cruz, 16, and daughter, Harper, nine, with David, was snap happy during the night out as she posed with her husband, 46, yet came over shy by adding a filter over her face.

Victoria looked sensational in jeans, a white blazer and a white shirt with a Hermes handbag- suggesting the snap was taken during the same evening David posted about on Wednesday- however she masked her face with the heart-eye emoji.

She also stepped out earlier in the week for another date with her beau in a plunging black blazer and smart trousers.

David and Victoria are one of the showbiz world's iconic couples and they have often spoken in the past about how they keep the spark alive.

In 2019, Victoria discussed family life and her marriage to David, as she stated they always put their children first: 'The kids are our priority, everything we do revolves around the children. We both work really hard, we love what we do professionally.

Soaking up the quality time: Victoria also shared a snap of herself and David appearing to be at Lucali in the same outfits to Instagram on Tuesday

'We support each other, we're very lucky to have found each other and lucky that we're growing together.'

Reminiscing about their first encounter two years prior to their wedding, Victoria admitted: 'It was love at first sight.'

Quizzed about how they make their family unit work despite their busy schedules, the Spice Girls star said 'communication is key'.

'We're very present in the kids' lives. We love our family, everything we do revolves around them', she explained.

Two date nights in one week! The star also shared an image from their night on the town earlier in the week, proving they really are making the most of their time in NYC

'I think it's just being focused, working hard, having a great support team around us. And both of our parents help out with the kids.'

The busy mother-of-four has just launched her first make-up brand, Victoria Beckham Beauty, and says she took advice from Diane Von Furstenberg about never feeling guilty juggling family life with work.

She said: 'You feel guilty when you're a working mum. I'm sure there are so many mums watching this right now who feel torn.

'You want to be the best professional, follow your dreams but you also want to be the best mum. Diane said to me, don't feel guilty, it's ageing!'
Kate Garraway has reflected on the explosive bombshells Dominic Cummings released regarding the government's handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

The GMB host, 54, has become one of Britain's faces for the crisis after her infected husband Derek Draper, 53, spent a year in hospital having been 'ravaged' by the virus and has now returned home with life-changing disabilities.

On the ITV breakfast show on Thursday morning, Kate spoke about Cummings' seven-hour-long select committee hearing the previous day, in which he showcased the misgivings of the government over the past year.

She said: 'I spend a lot of time reflecting on how things might have been different, in lots of ways. Both in the government's handling of it, the scientific advice and the doctors' advice specifically to Derek. It was definitely confused wasn't it?'

Speaking out: Kate Garraway has reflected on the explosive bombshells Dominic Cummings released regarding the government's handling of the coronavirus pandemic

On Wednesday, Cummings claimed Boris Johnson's 'disastrous' handling of the pandemic had cost tens of thousands of lives.

Launching a dramatic bid to bring down the Prime Minister, he blamed a toxic mix of complacency and indecision for the needless deaths.

He told MPs that senior ministers and advisers, including himself, had fallen 'disastrously short', adding: 'When the public needed us most, the Government failed. Tens of thousands of people died, who didn't need to die.'

In an extraordinary performance, he launched vicious attacks on the PM, his fiancee Carrie Symonds and Health Secretary Matt Hancock over their personal conduct.

Shocking: On Wednesday, Cummings claimed Boris Johnson's 'disastrous' handling of the pandemic had cost tens of thousands of lives

Heartbreaking: The TV presenter, 54, has endured a harrowing year after Derek, 53, became critically ill with coronavirus and spent more than a year in intensive care

He also claimed the Prime Minister had been 'unfit' for office when Covid struck and was not a 'fit and proper person' to lead Britain out of the pandemic.

Following Derek's horrific battle, Kate detailed her feelings about the revelations, saying: 'I think hindsight is a wonderful thing but it doesn't mean we shouldn't address what went wrong. Obviously there were things that could have helped.

'Just as there were doctors who said we could have given this medication at this point, we now know it would have definitely helped, but at the time we feared it might have killed him.

Shocking: He also claimed the Prime Minister had been 'unfit' for office when Covid struck and was not a 'fit and proper person' to lead Britain out of the pandemic

'I am quite generous to the government generally that they were looking at a situation and thinking 'what is going to be the most harmful'.

'If, as Cummings said, Boris Johnson was more obsessed with the economy maybe he genuinely believed that was the biggest risk.

'It doesn't mean to say that things like planning for a pandemic and lockdown.. that should have been something that was in place.'

Heartache: Last week, Kate gave an update on Derek's health, saying he 'can't really move' and still has minimal communication. Kate said her husband is still 'devastated' by the virus, after having been warned he still has a long way to go in his recovery (Kate pictured on Thursday)

Last week, Kate gave an update on Derek's health, saying he 'can't really move' and still has minimal communication. Kate said her husband is still 'devastated' by the virus, after having been warned he still has a long way to go in his recovery.

She said: 'He came home on April the 7th so we're a few weeks into it now. How is he? Look, he's devastated by Covid.

'He can't really move, his communication is very minimal. There are moments where there's up, you feel you know he's in there. He has a lot of memory.

'But the accessing of it is very limited. He's a long way from the Derek Draper that you know Andrew but he's home and he's alive, he's asleep now.'
Lara Worthington (nee Bingle) turned to the sea for inspiration for her latest ensemble.

In a post on Instagram on Thursday, the 33-year-old model shared a series of rare mirror selfies of herself modelling a marine-inspired dress.

The mum-of-three showed off her slender physique in a floor-length figure-hugging gown with a racer neckline.

Little mermaid: Lara Worthington (nee Bingle) turned to the sea for inspiration for her latest ensemble

The eye-catching black dress was patterned with yellow stripes and blue crescents, reminiscent of tropical fish.

Lara captioned the post simply, adding a series of fish emojis.

Her bobbed blonde hair was styled loose, and she appeared to have been wearing minimal makeup as she posed in front of her mirror.

Ocean girl: In a post on Instagram on Thursday, the 33-year-old model shared a series of rare mirror selfies of herself modelling a marine-inspired dress

Home sweet home: Last week, it was revealed that Lara and her husband of seven years, actor Sam Worthington, had sold their home in LA after moving back to Australia in January

In one photo, Lara threw on a black blazer over her dress and crouched down, with her phone concealing the bottom half of her face.

She accessorised with black boots, standing side-on in the mirror, which further emphasized her slim figure.

Last week, it was revealed that Lara and her husband of seven years, actor Sam Worthington, had sold their home in LA after moving back to Australia in January.

Covered up: In one photo, Lara threw on a black blazer over her dress and crouched down, with her phone concealing the bottom half of her face

According to a report by MSN on Sunday, the couple sold their Hollywood Hills home for $8.2million.

In an interview with The Daily Telegraph in April, Lara said she was relishing being back home in Australia.

'If I can steal a moment I love an early morning or night ocean swim, as the sun goes down,' she said at the time.
This Morning's resident doctor Zoe Williams showed off her growing baby bump on Wednesday evening as she attended a press night for new musical Here Come The Boys.

Zoe was joined by boyfriend Stuart McKay while posing for pictures outside the London Palladium ahead of the musical extravaganza, which marks another significant step out of lockdown for West End theatres.

Sporting an embellished white top over black PVC trousers, the TV doctor, 41, looked radiant as expectant father Stuart placed a hand on her stomach.

She's expecting: This Morning's resident doctor Zoe Williams showed off her growing baby bump on Wednesday evening as she attended a press night for new musical Here Come The Boys

Zoe announced in January that she is expecting her first child with Stuart, and recently admitted she's nervous as she looks ahead to the birth.

'I'm feeling a bit apprehensive, but also there's a small side of me that's looking forward to the birth and I can't wait to meet the baby,' she told HELLO!

'I can't believe I am saying that! I've witnessed my body go through this incredible thing and have got this newfound trust and faith in what it's capable of.'

Lovely: Sporting an embellished white top over black PVC trousers, the TV doctor, 41, looked radiant as she posed for pictures outside the London Palladium

Proud: Expectant father Stuart placed a hand on her stomach as they greeted onlookers before making their way inside the theatre

Zoe, who made her first TV appearance as Amazon in the UK television series Gladiators after qualifying as a doctor, added that she 'came into her pregnancy with a doctor's mindset'.

The medical professional also revealed she has enlisted the help of a doula - a trained companion employed to guide her through pregnancy and childbirth.

She said: 'Having worked in obstetrics and gynaecology, I've been exposed to many more complicated births than straightforward ones.'

'But we've got a doula who's attended many births and she is helping me readdress what my ideas are around everything.

Apprehensive: Zoe announced in January that she is expecting her first child with Stuart, and recently admitted she's nervous as she looks ahead to the birth

Logical: Zoe, who made her first TV appearance as Amazon in the UK television series Gladiators after qualifying as a doctor, added that she 'came into her pregnancy with a doctor's mindset'

'Thinking about a home birth is a massive shift for me, although I'm still weighing up all my options.'

In a recent interview, Zoe described pregnancy as 'magical' and admitted she was considering trying to conceive via a sperm donor before she met her partner.

The doctor, who previously revealed she froze her eggs in 2018, explained: 'Having my scan was just the most amazing thing. It's so magical, the wonder of seeing this little life that's growing inside you.'
She's been flooding her social media feed with rural snaps following her recent move from Kent to the Cotswolds with her family.

But Summer Monteys-Fullam took a break from the barn on Wednesday when she enjoyed a glamourous girls' night out at Kent's luxury The Cave hotel and made sure to show off her ample cleavage.

The ex of Paul Hollywood, 26, slipped into an ab-bearing bandeau top as she posed for her Instagram followers in the up-market venue, captioning her snap: 'Can't wait for more nights like these,' and adding the hashtag 'girls' night'.

Wow: Summer Monteys-Fullam, 26, took a break from the barn on Wednesday when she enjoyed a night at Kent's The Cave hotel and flaunted her ample cleavage in a bandeau top

Summer teamed the skimpy piece with a pair of white lace shorts and a matching top, both of which were adorned with beautiful floral detailing.

She added height to her frame in a pair of open-toe red heels.

The equestrian wore her glossy hair loose and was rocking a full fringe as she worked her best angles for fans.

The social media star was also sporting a full face of make-up as she enjoyed a night out with friends.

Countryside: Summer recently moved to start her new life in the Cotswolds with her family and has been documenting her rural lifestyle on Instagram

Summer has recently moved to start her new life in the Cotswolds with her family and has been documenting her move on Instagram.

The Ex In The City star had a big task ahead of her as she had to move her nine horses to their new home as well as several chickens.

It comes after Summer took a swipe at her Great British Bake Off star ex Paul, 55, when she said she hopes her next boyfriend won't be 'self-obsessed' or 'eat Rice Krispies for dinner'.

Speaking to The Sun, she said: 'Loyalty is a huge, key factor for me. I want someone nice. I don't have a type, as such  it's how I get on with that person.

'Age isn't really a problem but this time I would definitely put a cap on it  so thirties or younger  and I would definitely be open to dating someone not in the public eye.

'What I'm not looking for in a man this time around is someone who's self-obsessed or eats Rice Krispies for dinner.'

In the past! Summer recently took a swipe at her Great British Bake Off star ex Paul, 55, when she said she hopes her next boyfriend won't be 'self-obsessed' (pictured in 2019)

The beauty split from her TV ex in August 2019, and briefly dated TOWIE star Liam 'Gatsby' Blackwell later that year.

Summer insisted she has never been on any dating apps, describing herself as an 'old-fashioned chick'.

Paul has since moved on from their relationship and is now dating pub landlady Melissa Spalding, 38.
Sarah Harris has given an emotional interview following her recent split from husband Tom Ward.

Speaking to The Daily Telegraph on Thursday, the 39-year-old Studio 10 host revealed she's finally in a 'good space' after confirming the news in March.

But she admitted there are still times when she finds herself crying in the car as she drives home from work.

Sad split: Sarah Harris has given an emotional interview following her recent split from husband Tom Ward

'Tom and I adore our kids, we just love them and they come first,' she said of her former husband of seven years.

'I am not the first woman to do this and I certainly won't be the last. You just have to be organised and everything has to run with military-like precision.

'It is not to say that there aren't days where I get in the car and cry the whole way home and think, "That was a waste of makeup."'

Doing better: Speaking to The Daily Telegraph on Thursday, the 39-year-old Studio 10 host revealed she's finally in a 'good space' after confirming the split in March

Overall though, Sarah said she was 'doing pretty good' despite the devastating breakup.

The former couple share sons Paul, five, and Harry, three.

Sarah confirmed her split from the IT specialist in a statement to The Sydney Morning Herald back in March.

'It is not to say that there aren't days where I get in the car and cry the whole way home and think, "That was a waste of makeup,"' she confessed

'Tom and I are taking time apart however we remain good friends and deeply committed to co-parenting our two beautiful boys,' she said at the time.

The couple met during at night out at Fringe Bar on Oxford Street in Sydney's Paddington.

They dated for five years before Tom proposed on Balmoral Beach, and were married in Sydney in 2014.
His EastEnders character Mick Carter is currently embroiled in a harrowing abuse storyline, with his abuser recently sent to jail for her crimes.

And Danny Dyer was spotted out and about on a rare day off from filming on Thursday as he ran errands in Essex, catching the eye in a skeleton face mask.

The actor, 43, kept the rest of his look simple, donning a navy v-neck Canadian and blue jeans.

Out and about: Danny Dyer was spotted out and about on a rare day off from filming on Thursday as he ran errands in Essex, catching the eye in a skeleton face mask

Danny teamed his look with a dark grey T-shirt and white trainers, while he carried a Boots paper bag following his brief visit to the pharmacy.

The Assassin star appeared in good spirits as he strolled down the street before making his way to his car.

His outing comes amid gritty scenes for his EastEnders character Mick, which recently saw pedophile Katy Lewis (Simone Labhib) sent to jail for sexually abusing Mick when he was just 12 years old.

Relaxed look: The actor, 43, kept the rest of his look simple, donning a navy v-neck Canadian and blue jeans

There was drama in court as Mick's daughter Nancy suffered a seizure during a break from the trial.

With Mick helping his daughter, he was unable to read out his victim impact statement, leaving a barrister to do it on his behalf.

Luckily, the judge took Mick's heartfelt words into account and eventually sent Katy to prison for 10 years, while she was also put on the sexual offenders register for an 'indefinite period'.

Onscreen drama: His EastEnders character Mick Carter is currently embroiled in a harrowing abuse storyline, with his abuser recently sent to jail for her crimes

Justice: Mick's abuser Katy was sent to prison for 10 years, while she was also put on the sexual offenders register for an 'indefinite period'

Horrific: EastEnders fans couldn't contain their shock in October as it was revealed that Mick was the victim of sexual abuse as child

As Katy was taken away, Mick and his family, including wife Linda and mum Shirley, left court together, with his ordeal finally over.

It was revealed that Mick was the victim of sexual abuse as child in October.

The shocking twist was revealed as Mick realised that Frankie was his long-lost daughter, after fathering her with care worker Katy when he was just 12 years old.

Chilled: Danny teamed his look with a dark grey T-shirt and white trainers, while he carried a Boots paper bag following his brief visit to the pharmacy

There he goes: Danny certainly caught the eye in his striking skeleton mask

Off he goes: The Assassin star appeared in good spirits as he strolled down the street before making his way to his car

Mick struggled to come to terms with his historic abuse in the emotional storyline, and BBC bosses worked with charities Survivors UK and the NSPCC to ensure the issue was handled sensitively.

On New Years Eve, the Queen Vic landlord reached out to The Samaritans as part of the scenes on December 31, which saw him come dangerously close to taking his own life.

Having already suffered from anxiety and panic attacks thanks to the return of his former-abuser Katy, Mick felt he had reached the end of the line.

Later in January, fans were left rejoicing after Shirley Carter (Linda Henry) discovered Katy abused Mick.

Down time: Danny was enjoying a day off from his busy filming schedule

Solo outing: The TV star was without wife Joanne Mas as he popped into a Boots store

Running errands: The actor kept himself busy amid his character Mick's hard-hitting storyline

Shirley saw red when she overheard Katy threatening Mick to keep their affair a secret, after she had raped him as a child.

And viewers of the BBC soap declared that pedophile Katy 'had it coming' as Shirley gave her a vicious beating, much to the shock of other Albert Square residents.

Shirley then picked up the phone and rang the police to report the abuse.

If you have been affected by this story you can call the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000.
The new James Bond film No Time To Die could come out on Amazon Prime Video following a 6billion deal, The Sun reports.

Amazon recently bought Hollywood studio Metro-Goldwyn-Mayar for $8.45billion, giving the company access to the Bond franchise.

It will also get more than 4,000 post-May 1986 films and 7,000 shows, featuring famous characters including Rocky, RoboCop and Pink Panther. Amazon will also get a cable channel: Epix, which MGM owns.

Deal: The new James Bond film No Time To Die could come out on Amazon Prime Video following a 6billion deal

Daniel Craig's final outing as 007 is scheduled for release on September 30 after being delayed five times due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon Studios, has called MGM's catalogue of content a 'treasure trove', which both companies plan to 'reimagine and develop together'.

He said in a statement: 'It's very exciting and provides so many opportunities for high-quality storytelling.'

Amazon's second-largest acquisition - after it bought grocer Whole Foods for nearly $14billion in 2017 - is aimed at boosting streaming services to compete against the industry giants Netflix, Disney+ and HBO Max.

Franchise: Amazon recently bought Hollywood studio Metro-Goldwyn-Mayar for $8.45billion, giving the company access to the Bond franchise

But the rights to the 2,000 titles in the pre-May 1986 collection, which include classics like Wizard of Oz and Gone with the Wind, are still held by Turner and WarnerMedia.

It comes after Dame Judi Dench made her opinions of the latest Bond movies known when she said that Daniel Craig's films were 'gloomy' in comparison to earlier plots.

Speaking on Esther Rantzen's That's After Life podcast, the award-winning actress, 86, revealed: 'The script isn't so funny, I know, I agree.'

Downbeat: It comes after Dame Judi Dench made her opinions of the latest Bond movies known when she agreed that Daniel Craig's films were 'gloomy' in comparison to earlier plots

Judi played the character of M, who was Head of the Secret Intelligence Service in Ian Fleming's popular novels, until she was killed off in Skyfall in 2012.

She also revealed in the new interview that she got emotional when filming her final Bond film - because she only got to spend one night in Scotland.

Speaking candidly on the podcast she said: 'I cried because we were told we were going to Scotland for three weeks,

'We went one morning, we filmed, and we were back on the 7:30 plane that night.'

Honest: 'The script isn't so funny, I know, I agree' the award-winning actress revealed when she was asked if she thought the latest Bond films were 'gloomy'

The release of the latest Bond film, No Time to Die, has been delayed several times due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Now slated for release in September, the hotly-anticipated movie will have the world's biggest premiere budget of 10 million for the long-awaited event.

It was claimed that those behind-the-scenes are keen to have the premiere take place in a large London stadium, like Wembley Arena.

Bowing out: Judi played the character of M, who was Head of the Secret Service in Ian Fleming's popular novels, until she was killed off in Skyfall in 2012 (pictured with Daniel)

A source speaking to The Mirror claimed: 'They think they can pull off the biggest in-person premiere of the post-pandemic era, and have already put aside a whopping 10million for an event in England that will signal the return of these kinds of flashy movie launches that everybody's been missing for the last year.

'They are looking at the biggest venues in London, starting with Wembley and going down from there, and have enquired about the Staples Center in Los Angeles for a US premiere.

'MGM and the Bond team have never liked the idea of launching this movie without a red carpet event, which is one of the many reasons they've rolled with all the delays.'

Wow! The release of the latest Bond film, No Time to Die, has been delayed several times due to the coronavirus pandemic and now has the world's largest premiere budget of 10million

The much anticipated blockbuster has seen its planned premiere pushed back multiple times due to the Covid pandemic, after originally being slated to come out in April 2020.

But following Prime Minister Boris Johnson's announcement that the government hope to end all lockdown restrictions on June 21, it was reported in February that No Time To Die's release has been brought forward to 30 September.

Reports surfaced about the release date change after Tom Linay, who is marketing company Digital Cinema Media's Content Business Director, tweeted the news.
There wasn't a burner phone in sight on Wednesday as Line Of Duty star Nigel Boyle tucked into a Pakistani meal at his favourite Whitechapel restaurant.

The actor got stuck into a hefty mixed grill consisting of lamb chops, chicken tikka and seekh kebab after calling into east London eatery Tayyabs for dinner.

Boyle - unmasked as elusive criminal mastermind H during Line Of Duty's sixth series - was in the mood to celebrate after cheering his beloved Aston Villa to victory in the FA Youth Cup final.

The team won their fourth FA Youth Cup with a 2-1 victory against Liverpool at Villa Park, and brummie Boyle admitted he was delighted with the result as he prepared to eat.

Getting stuck in: There wasn't a burner phone in sight on Wednesday as Line Of Duty star Nigel Boyle tucked into a Pakistani meal at his favourite Whitechapel restaurant

Referencing official Villa supporters club Punjabi Villains, he wrote: 'Only way to celebrate @punjabivillans is to have a mixed grill @1tayyabs restaurant!'

Boyle left the nation reeling after his bumbling Line Of Duty character DCI Ian Buckells was revealed to be the elusive fourth man, commonly referred to as 'H'.

However, some fans expressed disappointment at the underwhelming ending and questioned how the seemingly hapless Buckells would have been able to run a ruthless crime gang.

Busted: Boyle's DCI Ian Buckells was unmasked as elusive criminal mastermind H during Line Of Duty's sixth series, much to the disappointment of many fans

Defending the show's ending, Boyle told BBC Breakfast: I think theres always going to be some element of disappointment but you cant have every series with a big shoot-out, urgent exit required. Sometimes the subtler message is more important.

I think when people reflect...some people wont be as disappointed.

The finale attracted 1.8million more viewers than the shows previously most-watched episode  which aired the week before.

Success: The finale attracted 1.8million more viewers than the shows previously most-watched episode  which aired the week before

Stars: (L-R) Kate Fleming (played by Vicky McClure), DS Chris Lomax (Perry Fitzpatrick), DCI Ian Buckells (Nigel Boyle) and DCI Joanne Davidson (Kelly Macdonald)

But while the big mystery of Hs identity was solved in the finale, there were still many unanswered questions such as the future of AC-12, whether Superintendent Ted Hastings would face prosecution and why a smirking Buckells seemed so relaxed when he entered his prison cell.

BBCs chief content officer Charlotte Moore called the drama addictive event television, adding: 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.

[creator] 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.
Vogue Williams has revealed she got stung by bees seventeen times while filming a show with Bear Grylls.

The presenter, 35, revealed the shocking incident during an appearance on Channel 4's Steph's Packed Lunch in Leeds on Thursday.

Looking back at the moment, she said: 'Im terrified of bees. I got stung seventeen times.

Shock: Vogue Williams revealed on Thursday's edition of Steph's Packed Lunch that she got stung 'everywhere' by bees SEVENTEEN times while filming with Bear Grylls

'I was doing a show with Bear Grylls and I went for a wee in a bush. And there was a bees nest in front of me. And I said, "what is that thing?" And then yeah, seventeen times.'

Steph asked Vogue if she was stung on her posterior, and she said: 'Everywhere. Worst place is on the bum.'

Vogue is taking part in Running Wild with Bear Grylls, which sees a variety of stars go on 48 hour journeys with the adventurer.

Looking back, she said: 'I went for a wee in a bush. And there was a bees nest in front of me.... And then yeah, seventeen times' (pictured on Bear Grylls' Mission Survive)

Vogue looked radiant as ever as she departed filming for the show, and she slipped into a red and pinks short-sleeved midi dress with a cut out across the midriff.

The TV presenter also sported a pair of bright pink trainers and added to her outfit with large sunglasses.

Styling her blonde locks into a ponytail, Vogue also carried a large pink handbag and a black suitcase.

Ouch! Steph asked Vogue if she was stung on her posterior, and she said: 'Everywhere. Worst place is on the bum'

The mother-of-two completed her look for the day with a pair of silver hoop earrings.

Vogue's outing came after she revealed plans to try for a third baby after the summer and also candidly told some facts about her husband Spencer Matthews' body hair.

The Irish beauty is mother to Theodore, two, and Gigi, 10 months, with her husband, 32, and the couple are planning on expanding their brood later this year.

Wow: Vogue looked radiant as ever as she departed filming for the show, and she slipped into a red and pinks short-sleeved midi dress with a cut out across the midriff

Speaking on comedian Joanne McNally's podcast My Therapist Ghosted Me, Vogue told how she plans on getting pregnant in the coming months.

Vogue and Joanne spoke about Wayne Lineker's appearance on this year's series of Celebs Go Dating and Vogue joked the pair should go out to Ibiza to visit his Ocean Beach club before she gets pregnant again.

She said: 'I'm going to try and get pregnant after the summer, I'm putting it out there and we have to go to Ibiza.

Plans: Vogue recently revealed she plans to try for a third baby after summer and also candidly told some facts about her husband Spencer Matthews' body hair

'I'm going to do it for the winter, I'll enjoy the summer and we have to go see Wayne before the summer is out. Even if it's for three nights, that's probably all I can take.'

Vogue also discussed Spencer's body hair, admitting he is 'bald everywhere except his head'.

She added: 'He hates having all that hair but I love it. He just gets rid of all of it. You should see the f*****g shower when he's finished.'
She embarked on a lifestyle overhaul last year that saw her give up smoking and work on her fitness levels and continue in her sobriety.

And Lily Allen showcased the fruit of her labours in a new sizzling snap as she slipped into Simone Perele yellow lingerie for a racy selfie on Thursday.

The British beauty, 36, looked sensational in the lace two-piece as she turned to the side to flaunt her washboard stomach and tiny waist.

Mellow yellow: Lily Allen showcased the fruit of her labours in a new sizzling snap as she slipped into Simone Perele yellow lingerie for a racy selfie on Thursday

Lily went from sporting gym gear - comprising a tiny crop top and leggings - to peeling off her clothes and showing off her stunning lingerie set.

The underwear was the SAGA Lemonade set from the range, featuring an 82 half cup bra and 58 shorty briefs to coordinate.

Her hair was tied into an mussed chignon with her choppy fringe in place.

Glamming things up, she added in stacks of gold necklaces, was accompanied by her swanky Louis Vuitton handbag and colorful phone chain from British brand String Ting.

Stunner: She embarked on a lifestyle overhaul last year that saw her give up smoking and work on her fitness levels and continue in her sobriety

Lily gave up smoking in November and vowed to keep up her gym sessions after catching the fitness bug. Her decision to give up smoking came shortly after she tied the knot with Stranger Things star David Harbour.

The couple are currently staying in his native New York with Lily's children Ethel, nine, and Marnie, eight, from her previous marriage to Sam Cooper.

Back in September, Lily and David tied the knot at a kitschy wedding with an Elvis impersonator as the officiant.

Smitten: The star, who married Stranger Things actor David Harbour in Las Vegas last year - pictured, is currently staying in his native New York with her two children

The couple wed in Las Vegas after going public with their relationship at the 2019 Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Lily told the Sex, Lies & DM Slides podcast: 'We didn't plan to announce it to anyone, it was meant to be a very private affair we were leaving Vegas and driving to Los Angeles and Nevada Clark County tweeted our marriage certificate.'

She quipped: 'So that saying, 'what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas', what happens in Vegas gets tweeted out by Vegas!'
Channing Tatum and Sandra Bullock were seen working on the upcoming action-comedy film Lost City Of D in a snap shared to the actor's Instagram account on Thursday morning.

The performers were pictured striking a pose as they stood in waist-high water in the Dominican Republic, and the Magic Mike star wrote a short message in the post's caption that read: 'This is no fun... no fun at all!'

The forthcoming flick, which also stars Brad Pitt in a small role, entered the physical production stage earlier this year, and the project is tentatively set to premiere in 2022.

Putting in work: Channing Tatum and Sandra Bullock were seen striking a pose in a picture from the set of the upcoming film Lost City Of D that was shared to the actor's Instagram on Thursday morning

In great shape: Bullock wore a VERY plunging dress as she is seen for the first time on set

Tatum was dressed in a form-fitting white t-shirt in the snap, and he showed off his chiseled arms while striking a pose.

The 41-year-old actor was also seen with a black backpack and a pair of dark beige slacks while working on the set of the upcoming film.

Bullock was dressed in an eye-catching purple sequined dress that featured a large v-cut on its front portion.

The 56-year-old actress' typically flowing brunette hair remained wet and fell down her backside as she posed with her costar.

Harsh conditions: In the post's caption, the 22 Jump Street star expressed that working on the film was 'no fun...no fun at all'; he is seen in 2020

Doing their thing: Development on Lost City Of D was first reported on last year, and the feature is set to be released in April of 2022; Bullock is seen at the 77th Annual Golden Globe Awards in 2020

Development on Lost City Of D was first reported on last year when it was noted by several sources that the Bird Box actress would be producing and starring in the feature.

Brad Pitt has a small role in the film

Although Ryan Reynolds was originally looked at as a potential male lead, Tatum's casting was confirmed late last year.

The film is centered around a reclusive writer that embarks on a book tour with a cover model before the two are involved in a failed kidnapping attempt that leaves them stranded in a jungle and forces them to embark on a romance-tinged adventure.

The forthcoming movie will be directed by Aaron and Adam Nee, from a screenplay written by Dana Fox.

Seth Gordon, who came up with the idea for the feature, is also set to remain as a producer on the project.

Also confirmed to be appearing in the upcoming feature are performers such as Patti Harrison, Oscar Nunez and Da'Vine Joy Randolph.

In March, it was announced that Daniel Radcliffe had signed onto the feature to play its villain.

Lost City Of D is currently set to make its debut on April 15th, 2022.

Featured performer: Earlier this year, it was reported that Daniel Radcliffe had joined the feature's cast and would portray its main villain; he is seen in 2020

On Tuesday, Tatum shared a nude shot to his Instagram account while working on the upcoming film.

In the photo, the 22 Jump Street star was seen posing naked in a trailer while holding a towel over his groin.

The performer also added a tongue-in-cheek message in the post's caption to let his followers know that Lost City Of D would feature a few risque moments.

'You know when you in the make-up trailer a**hole naked holding a towel over your junk you about to do some s**t on set that you gonna have to prepare ya mama for before she see the movie,' he wrote.
Joyce Kennedy was an actress of modest renown, who died in 1943, aged just 44, entirely unaware that an off-colour remark she had once made to a friend would inspire one of children's literature's greatest villains.

'He would make a nice fur coat,' she blithely observed of a Dalmatian puppy called Pongo, unwittingly planting the seed that would grow into the monstrous Cruella de Vil.

Pongo's smitten (and offended) owner was the playwright Dodie Smith, who more than 20 years later, having never forgotten Joyce's remark, wrote her first children's book, One Hundred and One Dalmatians.

Puppy love: As the new Cruella remake proves dalmatians haven't had their day Brian Viner looks back at the history of the well-loved children's novel written by Dodie Smith (pictured)

In 1961 it became a hit Disney animation, which in 1996 was re-made as a live-action film starring Glenn Close as the scheming, dog-napping Cruella. A sequel followed in 2000.

Now the Dalmatians are yapping again.

Disney's new release Cruella features Emma Stone in the title role, co-stars Emma Thompson, and has Close as executive producer. Almost 80 years after her friend Joyce's throwaway comment, and more than three decades after her own death at the grand old age of 94, the characters Dodie created are still going strong.

Her own favourite of all the plays and books she wrote was her charming debut novel, the 1948 classic I Capture The Castle.

JK Rowling and Joanna Trollope are among the many writers who have cited it as a direct influence on their own work and another, Lady Antonia Fraser, has described one passage as among 'the most erotic in all literature'.

One to watch: Cruella is the latest Disney venture inspired by One Hundred and One Dalmatians and stars Emma Stone in the titular role

Yet it is One Hundred and One Dalmatians that best reflected one of the constants of Dodie's life, her adoration of animals, as well as her visceral dislike for anyone who so much as hinted at treating them badly.

Once, in a taxi, the celebrated novelist Graham Greene made the mistake of asking her how he could kill some cats whose howling was disturbing him at night. He was not forgiven.

During Dodie's genteelly impoverished middle-class childhood in Manchester, her family had a dog called Good Old Rover and a cat named Kit Kennedy, a characterful tabby which, when the young Dodie had her tonsils out, promptly ate them.

But the most significant pet in her long life was the one given to her in 1934 as a tiny puppy, in a hat box.

Inspirational: Dodie's actress friend Joyce Kennedy (pictured in 1930) made an off-colour remark that a dalmatian would 'make a nice fur coat,' inspiring the monstrous Cruella de Vil

Pongo was a 38th birthday present and a complete surprise, devised jointly by her lover Alec Beesley and her best friend Phyllis Morris (whose Devon family had made its fortune in Ambrosia rice pudding).

Pongo's death from lifelong kidney trouble just seven years later caused Dodie more grief than anything had since her teens, when her mother died.

Still, he had at least made his presence felt during his short but singular life, barking furiously at any human-being wearing headgear; the man behind the cold cuts buffet at the swanky London restaurant Le Caprice always had to take off his chef's hat when Pongo came in. Unlike most dogs, he also got to travel across the United States in the back of a pale grey Rolls-Royce.

In 1939, having sailed from England with their beloved Rolls and even more beloved dog, Dodie and Alec, by now married, were heading for California where her amusing plays had attracted Hollywood's attention.

Iconic: Playwright Dodie, who more than 20 years later, having never forgotten Joyce's remark, wrote her first children's book, One Hundred and One Dalmatians (pictured with her dog Pongo and husband Alec in the Fifties)

She was asked to work on the script of Rebecca, Alfred Hitchcock's first American production, but declined because she hadn't cared for Daphne du Maurier's novel, and there was no scope for humour.

According to Valerie Grove's absorbing 1996 biography, Dear Dodie, the couple's early impressions of America were not especially happy. In New York, where her most successful play Dear Octopus was running on Broadway, Dodie could not find a 'single satisfactory teapot'.

Worse still, restaurant menus were disconcertingly literal, offering 'fresh-killed baby lamb' and 'boiled-alive baby lobster'.

Though not a vegetarian, Dodie was horrified, and noted wryly that at one place 'they brought the live lobster to the table, as if to give one a chance of making a pet of it first'.

When eventually they turned up in California, they considered it to be terrible dog-walking country.

Iconic: The Hundred and One Dalmatians was written by Dodie in 1956 and In 1961 it became a hit Disney animation

But they made the best of it and after Pongo's devastating death, were relieved to find several Dalmatian breeders in Beverly Hills. Dodie and Alec duly acquired two more puppies, one male, one female, naming them Buzz and Folly.

They were an exuberant pair, to say the least. 'I'd like to take them down to the shore but I'm afraid they might damage the sea,' Dodie wrote.

In 1943 she decided they should mate. Folly produced 15 pups, of which the 13th appeared stillborn until Alec tenderly massaged it back to life, an episode beautifully captured in both the book and the film of One Hundred and One Dalmatians.

A period of domestic tumult followed, as the dogs wrought destruction on their house (which was rented from the movie star Loretta Young).

With a foster mother brought in because Folly couldn't produce enough milk, Dodie and Alec were outnumbered 18 to two. Eventually, new homes were found for all the pups but one, which they called Dandy.

Dodie and Alec were living in England again by the time Buzz died, aged 14.

The happy memories of Pongo notwithstanding, Buzz was, as Dear Dodie records, 'Dodie's dog of dogs, the dog of her lifetime'. Without him she was 'demented' with misery.

But at least she could draw some comfort from the success of One Hundred and One Dalmatians, a wonderful story for children written by a woman who never wanted children of her own.

It was published to great acclaim in November 1956. A few months later, the Walt Disney studio paid $25,000 for the film rights, which helped Alec settle a huge US tax bill.

He dealt with all the bills, entering the amount due in tax after Dodie signed the cheques because, he said, she couldn't 'stand the sight of her own blood'.

Wow: After the animated film it was re-made as a live-action film in 1996 starring Glenn Close as the scheming, dog-napping Cruella. A sequel followed in 2000

The film took three years and $4 million to make. Walt Disney himself was so enamoured of the project that he visited Dodie and Alec in England, at their home in the pretty Essex village of Finchingfield.

They both liked Disney (and his money) so much that years later they named yet another Dalmatian after him - although Dodie was not averse to teasing him, saying 'Yours' every time a plane from the nearby US air base roared overhead.

When the film was finally completed, Dodie attended a preview at which a perfectly-mannered Dalmatian sat in the front row, never taking its eyes off the screen. Human audiences were similarly entranced. One Hundred and One Dalmatians was an instant and enduring hit.

Dodie's own last Dalmatian, not her 101st but her seventh, was a rambunctious character called Charley. In her frail old age, according to her biographer, Charley 'took care of her like JM Barrie's Nana'.

She in turn bequeathed 2,000 expressly for his care and protection, but he died just three weeks after her, 'having bitten the postman as a final angry gesture'.

One imagines that the postman already approached the Finchingfield house somewhat tentatively, for Dodie's passion for animals didn't stop at dogs.

She had two donkeys called Sugar and Spice, and kept 35 pigeons, some of them in the dining-room. When rats started turning up to eat the bird food, she fed them too.

They multiplied until, as Valerie Grove describes, the lawn was 'alive' with rats of all types, car after car turning up outside the house for people to gawp, 'on a sort of rat safari'.

Eventually, to appease the neighbours, Dodie very reluctantly agreed to have them poisoned. But indoors she was still surrounded by hordes of mice, which she cheerfully fed with biscuits and allowed to run over her face at night. Her favourite was one she called Teapot Tail.

If Dodie's eccentric interractions with animals had been all there was to her life, it would still be a story worth telling.

Yet there was so much more, starting of course with her hugely entertaining plays and books, but also encompassing her friendships, her sex life, and some decidedly unpredictable enthusiasms, such as The Beatles.

Animal lover: One Hundred and One Dalmatians reflected one of the constants of Dodie's life, her adoration of animals, as well as her dislike for anyone who hinted at treating them badly

There can't have been many women born in 1896 who were 'bowled over flat' by the sound of the Fab Four, indeed she refused to be a guest on Desert Island Discs because the BBC wouldn't play A Day in the Life, judged to contain unacceptable references to LSD. Eventually she did go on, in 1974, aged 78, and instead chose Being For The Benefit Of Mr Kite.

Her fascinating life is chronicled not just in Dear Dodie but in masses of correspondence (she was an obsessive letter-writer) and no fewer than four volumes of autobiography.

In the first of them, Look Back with Love, she records that the first motor-car she ever saw was in Blackpool, an electric brougham belonging to the famed Edwardian beauty Lillie Langtry: 'Crowds surged around it and an enormous commissionaire with a sepulchral voice kept mumbling 'Mind your toes'.'

Dodie was no beauty herself. She was never more than 5ft tall, had a squeaky voice and was at best described as plain. But she was witty, charismatic and stylish, and men fell for her.

Pooch perfect: Almost 80 years after her friend Joyce's throwaway comment, and more than three decades after her own death at the grand old age of 94, the characters Dodie created are still going strong

Among them was her boss at the fashionable London department store Heal's, where she worked in the 1920s to supplement her meagre earnings as an actress.

Ambrose Heal was married, much older than her, and already had a long-standing mistress, but, aged 30, Dodie decided that he needed to be 'collected', and plotted her seduction like a battle plan. Their affair lasted years.

It was also at Heal's that she met Alec, who was seven years younger than her and so handsome that when they arrived in Hollywood he was encouraged to take a screen test. Yet he remained devoted to Dodie until he died in 1987 (she was furious with him for going first).

She inspired similar devotion among her many friends, not least because of her loyalty to them. For instance, she was close to John Gielgud, and stuck steadfastly by him when in 1953 the great actor was arrested for 'importuning male persons for immoral purposes'.

While many others dropped him like a brick, Dodie wrote immediately, saying 'We think the world of you and always shall'.

An even greater friend was another gay man, the writer Christopher Isherwood, who only got royalties from the musical Cabaret - adapted from his semi-autobiographical 1939 novel Goodbye To Berlin - because Dodie intervened to ensure that he did.

'I send you a vibration of gratitude,' he once wrote to her, 'every time I collect my weekly cheque.'

As her own lovely writing again inspires a major film, plenty of us owe Dodie Smith a vibration or two of gratitude, including, if not above all, the organisation that in November 1990 sent a wreath to her funeral.

For all she had done to popularise the breed, it was from the British Dalmatian Society, with love.

Cruella is in cinemas on Friday.
Katie Holmes was seen styling her hair while walking down a busy New York City street on Thursday morning.

The Ice Storm actress, 42, was seen pulling her unbrushed hair on top of her head, then tying the locks with a hairband into a high ponytail as she did not break her gait.

This comes after her ex-boyfriend Emilio Vitolo Jr, 33, who has worked as a chef in his father's Manhattan restaurant, was seen leaving his father's restaurant Emilio's Ballato, with actress Zoe Kravitz, 32.

No time to stop: Katie Holmes was seen styling her hair while walking down a busy New York City street on Thursday morning. The Ice Storm actress, 42, was seen pulling her unbrushed hair on top of her head, then tying the locks with a hairband into a high ponytail as she did not break her gait

Katie - who has daughter Suri Cruise, 15, with ex-husband Tom Cruise - wore a white T-shirt tucked into her stripped slacks, adding sneakers and a tote bag as well as a face mask. The star added black cat eye sunglasses.

Emilio and Katie broke up earlier this spring as she worked in Connecticut on her new movie The Watergate Girl.

Now he has been seen with another famous actress.

Zoe and Katie have something in common: they have both starred in Batman movies. Holmes was in 2005's Batman Begins with Christian Bale and Kravitz will soon star as Catwoman in a 2022 Batman movie with Robert Pattinson.

Emilio looked to be in good spirit on Tuesday as he was seen outside his father's famous venue, which has been frequented by Tom Hanks and Johnny Depp in the past.

Cool Katie: The Dawson's Creek vet wore a white T-shirt tucked into her stripped slacks, adding sneakers and a tote bag as well as a face mask

Vitolo and Kravitz were both smiling as they engaged in conversation and then it seemed as if they shared their numbers as they typed into their cell phones.

The Italian descended New Yorker had on a cream colored polo shirt with matching shorts as well as beige-and-white sneakers. His black hair was slicked back.

Zoe was dressed down in a black sweatshirt with rust-colored slacks and a white beaded purse with hoops as straps. She was seen with little makeup on adding dangling pearl earrings. The daughter of Lenny Kravitz and Lisa Bonet added purple velvet shoes.

Katie and Emilio began dating in September and seemed to go full speed ahead with reports emerging that she thought the relationship could go 'all the way.'

Low profile: The star added black cat eye sunglasses as a man walked to her right

He was said to be 'incredibly charismatic' according to Katie's friends and even got on good with Suri, with the chef treating Katie like a 'princess,' throughout the relationship.

But in April it was alleged the pair were 'taking space,' before their official split was revealed less than a month later.

It was reported that 'different schedules and different commitments,' were partially to blame, with Katie filming an untitled romantic feature upstate and Emilio trying to nurture his own acting career on top of working at his family's restaurant.

And after the split, Emilio was said to be leaning on friends for support but as the breakup was confirmed he was glimpsed by single New Yorkers on the celebrity dating app Raya.

The loved-up days: Katie and Emilio Vitolo Jr dated for eight months and split this spring after some time apart: Katie, Emilio in SoHo, New York City in September

'It's not just Raya  he's on a bunch of other dating apps too. He didn't exactly hide the fact that he's broken up from Katie,' an insider told Page Six.

Prior to Katie, Emilio was engaged to Rachel Emmons, breaking things off with her via text just days before photos of he and Katie emerged on a PDA-packed date in SoHo.

Now it looks like her Emilio's career is heating up.

His new pal: Vitolo Jr was seen leaving his father's restaurant Emilio's Ballato with actress Zoe Kravitz on Tuesday

Earlier this month Emilio - who is friends with the Jonas brothers - shared an article from Variety that reported his film The Birthday Cake was acquired by Screen Media.

It's a mob crime drama from director Jimmy Giannopoulos that stars Shiloh Fernandez, Ewan McGregor, Val Kilmer, Lorraine Bracco, William Fichtner, Ashley Benson, Luis Guzman, Paul Sorvino, Vincent Pastore, Aldis Hodge, Penn Badgley, Emory Cohen, and Jeremy Allen White.

Emilio has a small role.

The film will be released in June 2021.

The official logline is: 'The Birthday Cake takes place on one fateful evening in the life of Gio (Fernandez), the son of a murdered mobster and the nephew of Brooklyn mob boss, Angelo (Kilmer). On the 10th anniversary of his fathers mysterious death, Gio carries on the family tradition of bringing a cake his mother (Bracco) baked to this uncles house for a celebration.'

Vitolo has appeared in other projects: he played the bartender in Royal Pains and had a part as Mike Cambioti in 2015's Around Every Corner. He has also been seen in the movies Tapestry and The Vigil.

But with The Birthday Cake he has a larger part and he is working with a higher caliber of actors.

Watch Dawson's Creek on Stan in Australia.
Kourtney Kardashian has discussed how lockdown impacted her family life with her children, in a candid talk with Australian supermodel and businesswoman Miranda Kerr for Vogue Paris.

The Keeping Up with the Kardashians star told Miranda that she felt quarantine life was 'really hard' on the kids, but also reflected on how she had to step in at one point, and shut down 11-year-old son Mason's 'secret' social media accounts.

'Mason started some secret accounts during quarantine,' Kourtney, 42, said mentioning TikTok and Instagram, before adding: 'Those were quickly shut down.'

Parenting tips: Kourtney Kardashian talks shutting down son Mason's 'secret' TikTok and Instagram accounts in candid chat with Miranda Kerr for Vogue Paris released Thursday

Kourtney and Scott Disick's then-10-year-old son made headlines last year when he appeared on a TikTok Live, and revealed he had a secret Instagram account that was shut down 'because I was too young, because I went viral.'

The youngster even boasted that he 'would have had 2.7 mil (followers) by now' but Kourtney promptly took action in protecting her son.

Mother-of-three Miranda agreed with Kourtney's wise parenting move, saying: 'It's one thing to communicate with your friends with road blocks... but it's a whole different thing to be on social media.'

Brunch: Kourtney and Miranda sat down together in Los Angeles as they chatted about parenting and motherhood amid the pandemic

Florals: Miranda looked stunning in a flowery blouse as she spoke with Kourtney for Vogue Paris

'I really do feel like he should be 18 and then he can decide what he wants to do,' Miranda added, appearing to reference her 10-year-old son Flynn.

Kourtney points out in the video that 'what kids share today, it's there forever' and added: 'I felt like quarantine was a big lesson, too, because I felt like it was hard for kids.'

'I loved it because I loved being home and being with them and not feeling guilty or feel like I was missing out. It was a good time for bonding, but then I felt like for their social interaction, it was really hard for them.'

Causing a stir: Kourtney addressed how she shut down her son Mason's Instagram account in March last year (pictured above, discussing Kylie and Travis Scott's relationship)

In March last year, Kourtney addressed the secret accounts in her own video saying: 'He started an Instagram, like, yesterday and didn't ask us.'

She went on: 'He doesn't (have a cellphone). He has an iPad and a computer for his school. Scott, and I just felt like, he's 10.'

Meanwhile, Kourtney and Miranda discussed social media and other topics as they were filmed eating a luxury spread of food including pasta and pizza.

Discussion: Kourtney and Scott Disick's then-10-year-old son made headlines last year when he appeared on a TikTok Live

Miranda and Kourtney reveal in the video that they first met over a 'girls dinner' at the restaurant Nobu.

'I remember we took a selfie in the bathroom, the four of us, and then we just started talking on our own,' Kourtney shared.

The friends also shared that they share similar interests including 'clean' beauty products, clean-eating, and fitness, having done Pilates together.

In agreement: Mother-of-three Miranda concurred with Kourtney's wise parenting moves
They've been connected at the hip since going public with their relationship earlier this year.

And Kourtney Kardashian looked completely smitten with Travis Barker as they cuddled up at dinner in Calabasas.

The 42-year-old blogger flashed her killer abs in a crop top and slacks for the amorous night out where she kissed her beau before diving into Italian fare at Rosti Tuscan Kitchen.

That's amore! Kourtney Kardashian looked completely smitten with Travis Barker as they cuddled up at dinner in Calabasas

Kourtney was dressed to impress for date night as she stepped out wearing an all-white ensemble complete with a matching coat and ribbed tank top.

She added a pop of color with a pair of snakeskin pointy toe heels and wore a few silver chains around her neck.

Her long dark brown hair was styled in loose waves, and she carried her iPhone and grabbed Travis's hand as they left the eatery.

Lucky in love: The 42-year-old blogger flashed her killer abs in a crop top and slacks for the amorous night out where she kissed her beau before diving into Italian fare at Rosti Tuscan Kitchen

Away we go: Her long dark brown hair was styled in loose waves, and she carried her iPhone and grabbed Travis's hand as they left the eatery

The Blink 182 drummer showed off his arsenal of artwork with tattoos covering his body as he stepped out in a shredded yellow tank top.

He hid the inkwork on his head with a red beanie and laced up a pair of black Converse trainers.

They were completely enamored with each other as they wined and dined the night away near their homes in the San Fernando Valley.

Kourtney was clearly over the moon for her beau as she completely forgot to wish ex Scott Disick a happy birthday on social media, despite her sisters public displays.

Lovebirds: Kourtney was dressed to impress for date night as she stepped out wearing an all-white ensemble complete with a matching coat and ribbed tank top

Giddy: They were completely enamored with each other as they wined and dined the night away near their homes in the San Fernando Valley

Fashion The Blink 182 drummer showed off his arsenal of artwork with tattoos covering his body as he stepped out in a shredded yellow tank top

Delicious dish: Kourtney took sips from a wine glass before tucking into dinner with Travis, a longtime vegan

A source close to the brunette beauty  who has Mason, 11, Penelope, eight, and Reign, six, with Scott Disick  told E! News: 'Kourtney has become very close with Travis' kids recently, especially when it comes to Alabama.'

Travis, 45, has Alabama and Landon, 17, with his ex-wife Shanna Moakler, and also co-parents her daughter Atiana, 21, from a previous relationship with Oscar De La Hoya.

And even though he's only been dating Kourtney for a few months, she's already proven to be a 'huge support system' for the teenage duo.

Mouse house: Kourtney later shared a Throwback Thursday photo dump from her recent family trip to Disneyland

Kravis forever: They held hands while riding the King Arthur Carrousel in Fantasyland

By contrast, Alabama recently discussed her relationship with Shanna in a candid post on social media, suggesting she's not an 'amazing mom.'

She wrote on Instagram: 'My mom has never completely been in my life. Can you guys stop painting her out to be an amazing mom?'

But Shanna, 46, subsequently hit back at the suggestion, insisting she's doing her best for her children amid difficult circumstances.

She said in a statement to People: 'Co-parenting is hard, but I have always and will continue to prioritize my children's happiness and well-being.'

Shanna later went to TMZ where she thanked the Kardashians for 'destroying my family, twice' after she claimed Kim slept with Travis.
Courteney Cox transformed into Monica Geller in a video that was shared to her Instagram account on Thursday.

In the clip, the 56-year-old actress was seen wearing her iconic overalls before sitting down and posing for a shot, after which an image of her character wearing the same outfit was shown.

Hours before the video was shared, the long-awaited Friends reunion special made its debut on the HBO Max streaming service and was met with mostly positive reviews.

Back at it: Courteney Cox donned a pair of overalls and a red shirt before showing a clip of herself playing Monica Geller on Friends in a video shared to her Instagram account on Thursday

Cox contrasted the light blue shade of her overalls with an eye-catching red shirt in the video.

Her gorgeous brunette hair cascaded onto her shoulders in the clip, and she also accessorized with a pair of bracelets.

The actress also wrote a brief message in the post's caption that read: 'Feels like yesterday'

The actress shared the video to her account on the same day as the premiere of the much-anticipated Friends reunion special, which was also released as The One Where They Got Back Together.

New material: The actress' video was shared the same day as the premiere of the Friends reunion special, which was made available on the HBO Max streaming service

Development on the episode began in 2019 when it was reported that Warner Bros. Television was actively working on getting the show's cast back together for a one-off project.

In February of last year, it was confirmed that all of the series' stars would be reuniting for the special and that co-creators Marta Kauffman and David Crane would be returning as executive producers.

Physical production on the episode was initially set to begin in March of last year, although the onset of the global pandemic forced the crew to delay work on the project.

Quick process: Development on the episode began in 2019, and it was confirmed that the entire cast would be returning for the special the following year

Shooting was then pushed to August, although the team decided to postpone filming for a second time due to safety concerns.

Production eventually began in April and commenced at Stage 24, also referred to as The Friends Stage, at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California.

Although the special episode was initially set to premiere in May of last year, it was pushed back to 2021 due to the multiple delays in production.

The reunion premiered on Thursday and featured appearances from several guest stars, including Lady Gaga, David Beckham and Tom Selleck, among numerous others.

Multiple delays: Physical production on the special was postponed twice due to the onset and ongoing state of the global pandemic

Going home: Filming eventually began in April and took place at The Friends Stage at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California

James Michael Tyler and Maggie Wheeler, who acted in the original series, both showed up during the episode.

During the special, several revelations about the cast and their characters were made, and it was expressed that Jennifer Aniston and David Schwimmer both had crushes on each other during filming and chose to repress their feelings.

It was also made clear that Geller and Chandler Bing, played by Matthew Perry, were not originally supposed to end up as a couple, although test reactions showed the producers that their dynamic was popular with audiences.

Cox concluded the special by remarking that the episode would be the last time that any of the actors would discuss the show together and that a continuation of the series would not happen under any circumstances.
Shia LaBeouf may be able to avoid any major legal consequences in his battery and petty theft case from 2020 if he stays out of trouble for 12 months, according to TMZ.

The outlet reported that the Peanut Butter Falcon star appeared in court on Thursday and was 'placed in a judicial diversion program', meaning that if he adheres to the requirements all the charges will be dropped.

The 34-year-old - who was spotted out for a bike right this week in Los Angeles - was charged in October over an alleged altercation with a man during the summer that ended with him stealing the man's hat and running away from the scene.

Good news: Shia LaBeouf may be able to avoid any major legal consequences in his battery and petty theft case from 2020 if he stays out of trouble for 12 months, according to TMZ on Thursday

LaBeouf was facing a misdemeanor over the alleged incident but under the provisions of the diversion program the slate will be wiped clean.

According to TMZ, Shia must 'attend private therapy for anger management at least once a week, continue with his alcohol monitoring, no attempts to use or obtain a weapon and no attempts to use force or violence.'

If Shia satisfies those conditions over the course of 12 months - and keeps 100 yards away from the man from the incident - all will be forgiven.

The court will check in to see how things are progressing under the judicial diversion program in three months time.

Behave: The outlet reported that the Peanut Butter Falcon star appeared in court on Thursday and was 'placed in a judicial diversion program', meaning that if he adheres to the requirements all the charges will be dropped

Down time: Meanwhile, Shia looked like he was enjoying some good, clean fun on Wednesday as he took a bike ride in Pasadena

Meanwhile, Shia looked like he was enjoying some good, clean fun on Wednesday as he took a bike ride in Pasadena.

The actor, who is sporting long hair and scruff rocked some retro 90s sunglasses and bike gloves while pedaling in the sunshine.

Bike riding seems to be the former Disney star's workout of choice these days as he is frequently spotted out and about on his two wheeler.

Prior to his most recent brush with the law, Shia has had several other run-ins in the past and was previously arrested for a druken scuffle in New York City in 2017.

According to TMZ, Shia must 'attend private therapy for anger management at least once a week, continue with his alcohol monitoring, no attempts to use or obtain a weapon and no attempts to use force or violence.' (Pictured February 2020)

He was also arrested in the same year for disorderly conduct in Savannah, Georgia when he became aggressive towards a police officer he had asked for a cigarette.

In 2014, he was arrested after disturbing a performance of the musical Cabaret on Broadway in New York.

He pled guilty to a disorderly conduct violation and he then received outpatient care for alcohol addiction.

That same year, Shia spoke to Interview magazine and admitted: 'I've been going through an existential crisis.'

Alleged incident: The 34-year-old was charged in October over an alleged altercation with a man during the summer that ended with him stealing the man's hat and running away from the scene

According to the star his behavior and drug and alcohol use, as well as acting, has been his way to escape.

Recently, Shia's ex FKA Twigs - who dated the actor for nearly a year - sued him for sexual battery, assault and infliction of emotional distress.

The lawsuit launched last December 2020 alleges he knowingly gave her an STD and abused her on several occasions during their relationship.

In response, Shia has 'denied each and every' assault allegation by the artist and wants her to pay his legal costs after she blamed him for 'relentless abuse'.

The former couple met on the set of the movie Honey Boy in 2018 and dated for nine months, splitting in May 2019 over 'conflicting work schedules'.
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He's unloading real estate as he settles into life in Australia.

And Zac Efron sold his sprawling five-bedroom mansion overlooking Los Angeles for $5.3million, according to property reports.

The 33-year-old actor listed the home in December for $5.9M before dropping a few hundred thousand off the ticket in March, only for a lucky buyer to officially snap up the stunning home this week.

Views: Zac Efron sold his sprawling five-bedroom mansion overlooking Los Angeles for $5.3million, according to property reports

The three-story compound was built in 1964 in the Oaks section of Los Feliz and offers extreme privacy.

A long, gaited driveway opens to expansive views from downtown to the ocean, visible from every room in the house.

The primary suite is situated on the main level of the open concept home and near three additional bedrooms and bathrooms.

Wow: The 33-year-old actor listed the home in December for $5.9M before dropping a few hundred thousand off the ticket in March, only for a lucky buyer to officially snap up the stunning home this week

Home sweet home: The three-story compound was built in 1964 in the Oaks section of Los Feliz and offers extreme privacy

Amazing: A long, gaited driveway opens to expansive views from downtown to the ocean, visible from every room in the house

Sweet: Warm woods and wide expanses of glass offer peace and tranquility throughout the home which boasts an indoor and outdoor flow

Dreamy: The primary suite is situated on the main level of the open concept home and near three additional bedrooms and bathrooms

Warm woods and wide expanses of glass offer peace and tranquility throughout the home which boasts an indoor and outdoor flow.

A gym, wine cellar and security cameras are included in the design of the home which spans 5,644-square-feet.

The High School Musical star will receive nearly a $2 million profit after he purchased the home in 2013 for $3.9million.

Zac and his brother, Dylan, have been busy exploring Tasmania  an island state detached from the Australian mainland  for their new Netflix series, Down To Earth.

Work out: A gym, wine cellar and security cameras are included in the design of the home which spans 5,644-square-feet

Eye for design: The High School Musical star will receive nearly a $2 million profit after he purchased the home in 2013 for $3.9million

The pair visited the world-famous Museum of Old and New Art (Mona) in the state's capital of Hobart on Thursday.

Sources told PEOPLE magazine that Efron's stayed busy setting up roots in Australia after filming the survivor thriller Gold in Adelaide.

'As of now, he has no plans to live permanently in LA again,' the source said. 'He loves Australia and considers it his home.'

Insiders told TMZ last year: 'Zac is burnt out living in and around Hollywood  he's never been one for the limelight, or for being the center of attention, and we're told he doesn't like the paparazzi following him around town.'
Angelina Jolie suffered a major blow in her custody battle with her ex-husband Brad Pitt after he was granted joint custody of their children on Wednesday.

Now sources close to the 45-year-old actress and humanitarian are sharing she feels let down by the courts that did not allow her children to testify at the custody hearings.

One person close to her claimed she did not object to the custody decision, but to a lack of 'care for her family,' according to Page Six. It was added the star did not feel the court 'took into account the full set of issues that affect her family.'

Battling the system: Sources close to Angelina Jolie, 45, say she's disappointed that her children weren't allowed to testify in her custody battle with Brad Pitt, 57, and that the 'system is at fault,' according to Page Six

'The custody schedule was always determined by the court,' the source explained. 'Its sad that Brads people are gloating about a potential win when beating a system that exists to protect families and children from issues that harm their well-being is not something to brag about.'

They stressed that Jolie wasn't simply trying to deprive Pitt, 57, of time with his children.

'The heart of this dispute has not been about keeping the children apart from their father, its been Angelina asking for care for her family,' they continued. 'Her motivations have never been to deny the children a relationship with their father.'

Complicating the court battle between the exes was Jolie's submission in court of evidence of allegedly domestic abuse by Pitt, which The Blast reported she planned to introduce back in March.

Gloating: 'Its sad that Brads people are gloating about a potential win when beating a system that exists to protect families and children from issues that harm their well-being is not something to brag about,' a source close to her said; seen with (L-R) Knox, Vivienne, Pax, Shiloh, Zahara and Maddox

Looking out for the kids: They stressed that Jolie wasn't trying to deprive Pitt of time with his children but that she's 'asking for care for her family'; seen in 2019 in London

The alleged evidence was recently submitted, but it remains under seal and its exact contents are unknown.

The Maleficent star is reportedly most upset over Judge John Ouderkirk's decision to not allow her and her six to children testify in the custody hearings.

'This system is at fault, and Angelina is focused on fighting a system that does not take into account the full set of issues that affect her family and other families in this situation,' the source continued. 'Shes working hard to ensure that other families dont go through her experience.'

Judge Ouderkirk's decision may only be temporary, as last year Jolie launched a bid with an appeals court to have him taken off the case because he allegedly failed to disclose business interests he shared with Pitt.

The judge previously officiated the couple's wedding in 2014.

Slowing down: 'Any delay would only work grave harm upon the children, who will be further denied permanence and stability,' Brad's lawyers wrote, according to The Sun; seen April 25 in LA

On Thursday, The Sun reported that Brad's lawyers had made a filing opposing any delay in the joint custody decision.

'Any delay would only work grave harm upon the children, who will be further denied permanence and stability,' they wrote in response to her attempts to block the proceedings.

The attorneys added that allowing for a delay would be 'wholly inappropriate.'

Despite Jolie's fury over Ouderkirk's handling of the custody case, other individuals with knowledge of the custody case contended that the judge made an informed decision based on hours of hearings with experts, including therapists and child service professionals, who had spoken to Pitt and Jolie's children.

Another insider familiar with the couple's divorce said Pitt's goal was always 'just to spend more time with his children, to make sure theyre healthy, happy and cared for.'

Family time: Another insider familiar with the couple's divorce said Pitt's goal was always 'just to spend more time with his children, to make sure theyre healthy, happy and cared for'; Jolie seen with the children in 2018 in Paris

In his ruling, the judge wrote that Jolie's statements 'lacked credibility in many important areas.'

He added: 'The existing custody order must be modified in the best interests of the children.'

However, he's reserving any celebration over the joint custody ruling in case it's overturned and Ouderkirk is taken off the case.

'The process isnt over, and every step of the way Angie has resorted to extreme tactics to misrepresent her story [to the media] and to destroy anyone who goes against her  therapists, experts and even the judge,' the source claimed. 'And at the end of the day, Angie was found not to be credible by all of these people.'

In Brad's corner: 'At the end of the day, Angie was found not to be credible by all of these people,' said a source close to the custody hearings; seen in January 2020

The insider also referenced reports that the Once Upon A Time In Hollywood actor had been involved in a dispute on a private jet with his son Maddox, who was 15 at the time.

'She thought there would be charges brought against Brad after the plane incident, she dropped her lawyer Laura Wasser and claimed that Brad owed her millions in support, which was untrue,' they claimed.

They added that Jolie has made her children 'tools through the [court] process.'

The Academy Award winner has been known to bring all of her children to her red carpet premieres in the past, and even posed with the children in intimate photos taken at their LA home for British Vogue.
I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here has reportedly been given the green light from Australian border force to return to the jungle.

According to reports on Thursday, the show, hosted by Ant and Dec, has been given the option to film Down Under, after the 2020 series was filmed in Gwrych Castle in Abergele, Wales because of travel restrictions amid the coronavirus crisis.

Although there is now the option to return to the jungle an ITV spokesperson told MailOnline that a decision has not yet been made on whether the show will return to Australia or not.

Could it be? I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Outta Here 'has been given the green light from Australian border force to return and film in the jungle', it was reported on Thursday

A spokesperson said: 'No final decision has yet been made regarding the location for the new series.'

Meanwhile, a border force source told The Sun: 'Everyone is delighted with this news. All the signs are now pointing towards a return to the jungle.

'As great as a year in the castle was, the show is made by its surroundings and the glitz and glamour of the jungle.

'ITV have assurances from Australian border control bosses that even if a wider travel ban is still in place for tourists, they'll get the paperwork and clearance they need to send cast and crew to Oz. It's a big moment.'

Possibility: The show is said to have been given the option to film Down Under, after the 2020 series was filmed in Gwrych Castle in Abergele, Wales (2020 winner Giovanna Fletcher)

Entry to Australia is currently closed to most arrivals amid the pandemic and the country has been hailed one of the world's Covid success stories, where infection rates are near zero, due to their strict lockdowns and border control.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced this month that Australia won't re-open borders until mid-2022.

However, travellers who have been in New Zealand for 14 days or more can travel by air to Australia and will not require an exemption.

Australian citizens and returning permanent residents and their immediate family members are permitted to enter Australia without an exemption.

Meanwhile, Giovanna Fletcher was crowned the first Queen of the Castle in December last year, beating Jordan North and Vernon Kay to the top spot.

It was reported in April that show bosses won't know if I'm A Celebrity will be able to return to its usual home in Australia for the upcoming 2021 series until September.

According to The Mirror, everyone is thought to be 'very keen' to return to the jungle and it is now just a 'waiting game' to know if it'll be possible.

When contacted by MailOnline, ITV representatives stipulated: 'No final decision has yet been made regarding the location for the new series' (Myleene Klass on the 2006 series pictured)

One insider said: 'Everyone is keen to get back Down Under this year but, of course, it depends on what the Australian authorities will allow.

'We won't know for sure if we can get back to the Gold Coast until the start of autumn, when things will be much clearer. Until then, it's a waiting game.'

In March, ITV chief executive Dame Carolyn McCall confirmed that bosses are hoping the show will return to the jungle as that is how the show is 'meant to be'.

Speaking as the network published its group annual results, she said: 'If we can go back to Australia  and this show is meant to be in Australia  then thats what well do. We have a very good plan if not, as we have already done it once (in the castle).

Prior to the confirmation, hosts Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly sparked claims that this year's series will be returning to Wales.

The presenting duo said they'd be 'very happy' to remain in the UK for filming when the series returns later this year, joking they 'wouldn't miss the jet lag'.

Last year's I'm A Celebrity was relocated to Gwrych Castle in Wales after plans to record the usual show in Australia became impossible due to COVID.

Going back for round two? There has been speculation the show will return to Gwrych Castle in Wales for the 2021 series with reports claiming ITV have already booked it as a backup

Speaking to Digital Spy magazine, Ant said: 'If during coronavirus we have to stay put and do it in Wales again, I'd be very happy.

'We were very welcomed in Wales. There were cardboard cut-outs of me and Dec in the butcher's, and the local school did a tribute. We'd happily go back there. We'd miss the sunshine, mind.'

Dec added that he 'wouldn't be disappointed' if filming was once again taking place in Wales later this year, adding: 'The people in Wales were lovely...

They'd stay! Ant and Dec also said they'd be 'very happy' to remain in the UK for filming when the series returns later this year, joking they 'wouldn't miss the jet lag'

'They made us feel very welcome. I had a lovely time. I will miss the sunshine, but I will not miss the jet lag of coming back from Australia.'

It was reported in February that ITV bosses had already secured use of the castle for another series if the Covid crisis prevented a return to Australia.

A source told The Sun: 'Ultimately they are at the mercy of COVID-19 restrictions. Formally an agreement is in place for the use of Gwrych Castle this year. Should the show need to be held there again it has all got the green light.'

ITV hired the 19th century castle for six weeks in 2020, costing 1million, after Covid-19 ruled out the usual setting in Australia. The network also announced an extreme Covid Management Plan to ensure the series ran smoothly.

This included the celebrities being tested every three days and crew members wearing proximity buzzers, masks and getting temperature checks on arrival.

The celebrities also had to isolate for two weeks ahead of their arrival. The new venue was warmly received by viewers, with some even calling for the show to make Wales its new permanent home.
Steve Coogan has explained how he uses his comedy alter-ego Alan Partridge as a way of avoiding being 'cancelled'.

The actor, 55, has portrayed Alan on and off since he was 26, and admits his irreverence allows him to get away with making inappropriate statements he otherwise wouldn't be allowed to.

'There are things I say as Alan, that I couldn't possibly say as me as I'll get cancelled,' he told Jonathan Ross on this week's episode of The Jonathan Ross Show. 'I use Alan as a Trojan Horse to say all the things I couldn't possibly say in reality.

'Trojan horse!' Steve Coogan has explained how he uses his comedy alter-ego Alan Partridge as a way of avoiding being 'cancelled'

'Some of the things he says are obnoxious or not very nice and sometimes he says things I secretly agree with. I half like him and half can't bear him.

'He's like slipping on an old jacket. If I'm walking along the street and I think, "What would Alan think of that?" and I make a note of it.'

Of the origins of the character - an inept broadcaster with an idiotic sense of his own celebrity - Steve added: 'It was just a silly voice I did. I was 26. I was trying to play a middle aged man and now I am one.

'They used to give me this latex to give me crow's feet  I've since acquired them. In make-up it's a lot quicker.'

Icon: The actor, 55, has portrayed Alan on and off since he was 26, and admits his irreverence allows him to get away with making inappropriate statements he otherwise wouldn't be allowed to

Funny man: 'There are things I say as Alan, that I couldn't possibly say as me as I'll get cancelled,' he told Jonathan Ross on this week's episode of The Jonathan Ross Show

He went on: 'There was a time when it was sort of all I was doing. Since I've managed doing other stuff, I do him because I like doing him, not because I have to.

'It's nice to have a bit of variety. When I did something like [film] Philomena  and I'm doing another film with the same writer/director about the woman who found Richard III in the car park - using comedy as a tool in your box rather than an end in itself. A serious recipe with a bit of comedy paprika.'

Speaking of impersonations he said: 'I think it's a young man's game. Anyone over 40 [doing it] needs to take a long hard look at themselves in the mirror. I just walked away from it. I don't mind doing it as a party piece.'

He said: 'Some of the things he says are obnoxious or not very nice and sometimes he says things I secretly agree with. I half like him and half can't bear him'

He added: 'He's like slipping on an old jacket. If I'm walking along the street and I think, 'What would Alan think of that?' and I make a note of it'

Steve has been filming for a new ITV crime drama about the murder of Stephen Lawrence.

The actor will play DCI Clive Driscoll, who was heavily involved in the investigation, and was spotted filming scenes for the series in Northolt in March.

Entitled Stephen, the series is a follow-up drama to another series from 1999, and has been endorsed by the murdered teen's parents Doreen and Neville Lawrence, played in the original by Marianne Jean-Baptiste and Hugh Quarshie respectively.

The drama will portray events starting from 2006, 13 years after 18-year-old Stephens death on the evening of 22 April 1993 in a racially motivated attack whilst waiting for a bus in Well Hall Road, Eltham.

Continuation: Steve has been filming for a new ITV crime drama about the murder of Stephen Lawrence [Stephen is pictured]

The show tells the story of his parents' ongoing struggle to achieve justice for their sons' death.

It also follows the plights of the detective - DCI Clive Driscoll [Coogan] - who worked closely with the Lawrences to put together an investigation that finally  more than 18 years after his death  secured the convictions of two of the gang who committed the murder of Stephen.

Even though the Lawrences knew the identity of their sons killers, the original investigation failed to convict those responsible.

Their extraordinary campaign for justice led to a public inquiry which branded Metropolitan Police institutionally racist and brought about sweeping changes in the law and police practices and transformed thinking and understanding of racial inequality in the UK.

The Jonathan Ross Show airs Saturday at 9.30pm on ITV.
The custody battle is over but the war continues. And what a war it is. Four years and eight months, and heavens knows how many millions in legal bills, after they split, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have finally reached a landmark arrangement over five of their six children.

Pitt, 57, has won the 50/50 shared custody he wanted of the children, now aged between 12 and 17. The case has been dragged out so long that eldest son Maddox is now 19, at university in Korea, and mercifully free of the whole ugly mess  legally at least.

But the order  handed down on May 13  does not herald the outbreak of peace within this fractured family. Not by a long, long way.

Jolie, 45, is appealing against the judgment, and it can be revealed that she is trying to get the judge thrown off the case, which will mean that his decision is 'vacated' or, in plain English, nullified.

Four years and eight months after they split, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie (pictured in Mr and Mrs Smith) have finally reached a landmark arrangement over five of their six children

That will come to the appeal court in California on July 9. Pitt has now hired a top-drawer litigator, known as the 'best of the best', to fight his corner in this bitterest of Hollywood divorces.

Ted Boutrous Jr is no divorce lawyer; he's in the business of fighting multi-million-dollar lawsuits. He made his name defending Walmart against a class action in the Supreme Court and has acted for Apple among others.

His speciality is First Amendment actions, defending free speech, so you might think that the small matter of who gets to spend Thanksgiving and Christmas with the Jolie-Pitt children is way beneath him, but he is proving Pitt's secret weapon.

Indeed, it is his name on papers, which are Pitt's response to Jolie's appeal, that claim the judge thought her evidence 'lacked credibility in many important areas'.

Others associated with the hearings allege that Team Jolie in court tried to discredit experts who were giving evidence about what would be best for the children.

One source said: 'There have been a string of desperate moves. 'Anyone who said something they didn't like, they would fight against their credibility to testify. That has gone on for months and they have thrown everything at it.'

It's impossible to verify this account as the custody hearings were conducted in private and all documents relating to them were filed under seal, meaning they cannot be viewed. Jolie's agent Mindy Nyby did not respond to requests for comment.

While the custody arrangement is a significant step, the divorce is far from settled. The pair still need to deal with the question of finances  a complex matter when there are two wealthy individuals with global assets and properties  and that's not even been started yet.

Pitt, 57, has won the 50/50 shared custody he wanted of the children who are now aged between 12 and 17

Considering it has taken more than four years to get to this point, no one is predicting the case will be ending any time soon. Indeed, the battle of the Jolie-Pitts has been epic in scale and utterly unedifying.

It long ago exceeded the span of their doomed marriage, which lasted just 25 months, starting with an eccentric ceremony at their vast estate in France and ending with a huge bust-up on a private jet on the Tarmac at Minnesota that led to Jolie filing for divorce.

And as for the venom unleashed, it has been far worse than anything either side expected. Pitt said in a tear-soaked confessional interview in 2017 that he was hoping for a co-operative divorce.

'We are both doing our best. I heard one lawyer say, "No one wins in court, it's just a matter of who gets hurt worse." And it seems to be true... it's just an investment in vitriolic hatred. I just refuse. And fortunately my partner in this agrees.'

How very wrong he was.

The two actors started a romance after co-starring in the film Mr. & Mrs. Smith in 2005. Children came thick and fast. Maddox had been adopted from an orphanage in Cambodia by Jolie in 2002, while she was married to actor Billy Bob Thornton. Pitt became his adoptive father in 2006.

Together the couple then adopted Pax, now 17, from Vietnam when he was three, and baby Zahara, now 16, from Ethiopia. They also had three birth children together, daughter Shiloh in 2006 and twins Knox and Vivienne in 2008.

The couple were married in August 2014 at their house in rural France, in a ceremony which heavily involved their children, who had been allowed to doodle designs that were then stitched on to the bride's veil

Together the couple then adopted Pax, now 17, from Vietnam when he was three, and baby Zahara, now 16, from Ethiopia. They also had three birth children together, daughter Shiloh in 2006 and twins Knox and Vivienne in 2008

They were married in August 2014 at their house in rural France, in a ceremony which heavily involved their children, who had been allowed to doodle designs that were then stitched on to the bride's veil.

But just two years later, it all fell apart. On Wednesday, September 14, 2016, the whole clan travelled from Paris to LA, with a refuelling stop in Minnesota. There was an 'incident' as the jet stood on the runway, and on Monday, September 19, Jolie announced that the couple were separating and that she was seeking a divorce 'for the health of the family'.

Her manager, Geyer Kosinski, immediately hinted that he spoke for the health of the kids when he remarked: 'Angelina will always do what is in the best interest to protect her children.'

Pitt made no response. The role of adopted son Maddox, then 15, was widely raised, with People magazine and the website TMZ claiming that he was involved. One source said that Brad and Angelina argued and Maddox jumped in to defend her verbally.

Both the FBI and the Department of Children and Family Services investigated but neither found that Pitt posed a danger to the children.

In November 2016, the FBI said: 'In response to allegations made following a flight... carrying Mr Brad Pitt and his children, the FBI has conducted a review of the circumstances and will not pursue further investigation. No charges have been filed in this matter.'

Initially, the divorce looked peaceful enough. In 2017, the pair released a statement saying that they were seeking mediation via a private judge  Judge Ouderkirk, who had married them.

Pitt quietly accompanied the family to Cambodia for the premiere of Jolie's new film. She bought a 19 million house just around the corner from his home in Los Angeles.

Pitt was said to have quietly completed a 'VIP rehab' and be attending both AA and NA meetings, after admitting he'd been drinking too much.

But in 2018, things turned nasty. Jolie accused Pitt of not paying her 'meaningful support' since the split. He countered that he had actually loaned her $8 million plus $1.3 million for bills.

Custody became an obsession for them both. Jolie had primary physical custody with the children visiting Pitt according to a schedule. In 2019, Jolie told Harper's Bazaar: 'I would love to live abroad and will do so as soon as my children are 18.

'Right now I'm having to base where their father chooses to live.' Pitt was appalled.

Jolie was warned by the court to stop snooping on mobile phone contact between Pitt and the children and was warned of serious consequences if she created a distance between him and their brood. Schedules had to be co-ordinated using a specialist co-parenting app, called OurFamilyWizard.

In an interview this year with Vogue, Jolie said that she was focusing on 'healing' her family. She added: 'I feel like I'm lacking in all the skills to be a traditional stay-at-home mom. I'm managing through it because the children are quite resilient, and they're helping me, but I'm not good at it at all.' She added: 'These are the years they're really growing into adults. I'm happy to be here and make sure I do the best I can.'

Last autumn, Jolie attempted to get the judge thrown off the case over an alleged conflict of interest  he has a declared professional relationship with a colleague of Pitt's original attorney Lance Spiegel. That was unsuccessful.

In December last year, court proceedings began in Los Angeles over child custody for the five youngsters. Both sides offered lists of witnesses to call  Pitt asking for 21 and Jolie for seven. They were bodyguards, security staff, experts in child psychology and a former nanny. On March 12, Jolie, filed a memorandum to court 'Under Seal' meaning that it is private and cannot be viewed by the public, provocatively titled: 'Offer of Proof and authority in support thereof re: testimony regarding domestic violence.' Another memorandum was: 'Re testimony of minor children.'

It's understood that she wanted the children to testify about alleged domestic violence. But the children did not testify, and the ruling didn't go her way.

She has now made a legal bid to disqualify Judge Ouderkirk from the divorce case. She said in a filing on Monday that the judge had 'refused to hear the minor teenagers' input as to their experiences, needs or wishes as to their custody fate'.

She also said that Ouderkirk had declined to hear evidence that she alleged was relevant to the children's safety and well-being before he issued a ruling.

Peter Harvey, a former attorney general of New Jersey, says that Jolie is now campaigning over how custody issues are assessed 'to ensure that other families do not experience what hers has endured'.

However, Pitt was soon back with a body blow of his own. His filing in response, seen in full by the Daily Mail, said the judge found Jolie's testimony 'lacked credibility in many important areas, and the existing custody order between the parties must be modified, per Mr Pitt's request, in the best interests of the children'.

It said Jolie's objections and further delays in reaching an arrangement would 'work grave harm upon the children, who will be further denied permanence and stability'.

Ted Boutrous Jr added that she had 'simply missed the point' in several instances. In a statement, his legal team said: 'Ouderkirk has conducted an extensive proceeding over the past six months in a thorough, fair manner and reached a tentative ruling and order after hearing from experts and percipient witnesses.'

A source adds: 'She says that the kids didn't speak in court. The point is that the kids spoke to their therapists in proper situations and settings about things. They were evaluated and this was then reported into the court. 'There is no perfect optimal situation for something as difficult as this but they were spoken with by professionals. It is well known in the industry that you never want the kids to testify in court. That is the last thing which anyone should want.

'You never want for that to happen. It is invariably traumatic. So when she complains that the kids were not allowed to testify, that reinforces more that the judge made a good decision about custody. '

The source added: 'There have been hundreds of experts, therapists and so on and the judge has heard it all and made what is called a 'tentative' decision which then gets ratified.

'All Brad ever wanted was joint custody. Brad cares tremendously about his kids and he wants the best for them. He just wants to spend as much time with them as possible.

'The other side is doing everything possible to prevent that from happening.'

But the source cautions: 'July is going to be important. If the judge is kept in place then the ruling stands. If the judge is not, then the ruling is vacant and we have to start all over again.'
Oscar Isaac has been unveiled as the actor portraying Marvel superhero Moon Knight in an upcoming Disney+ series about the mercenary.

After months of speculation, Marvel announced the big news on Twitter with a photo of the actor flashing an ominous expression before a collage of Moon Knight artwork.

For months, Isaac, 42, was at the center of reports claiming he would be the one portraying the super hero in the upcoming series.

It's on! Oscar Isaac has been unveiled as the actor portraying Marvel superhero Moon Knight in the upcoming Disney+ series about the character

Back in October, Deadline reported the actor was in talks to star in the series, which is being developed by the creator of The Umbrella Academy, Jeremy Slater.

Moon Knight follows mercenary MarcSpector, who has a number of alter egos, including a taxi driver named Jake Lockley and millionaire Steven Grant.

A conduit for the Egyptian moon god Khonshu, the Batman-esque vigilante uses his vast resources and superpowers to fight the criminal underworld.

The streaming platform is preparing to release several series adaptations of the wildly successful MCU film franchise, including Loki and Hawkeye. It has already debuted WandaVision and The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.

Man in the moon: For months, Isaac, 42, was at the center of reports claiming he would be the one portraying the super hero in the upcoming series (pictured in December, 2019)

Multiple identities: Moon Knight follows mercenary MarcSpector, who has a number of alter egos, including a taxi driver named Jake Lockley and millionaire Steven Grant

Starting a buzz: Back in October, Deadline reported the actor was in talks to star in the series, which is being developed by the creator of The Umbrella Academy, Jeremy Slater (pictured right in Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker)

Moon Knight will be one of several new characters launching in the MCU with their own Disney+ series, including Ms. Marvel (starring Iman Vellani) and She-Hulk (with Tatiana Maslany).

The show was first announced by Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige during the D23 Expo back in August of 2019.

Shia LaBeouf was rumored to be in talks for the titular role back in May, with Oliver Jackson-Cohen also a fan favorite choice for the character.

New characters: Moon Knight will be one of several new characters launching in the MCU with their own Disney+ series, including Ms. Marvel (starring Iman Vellani) and She-Hulk (with Tatiana Maslany)

Fantasy casting: Shia LaBeouf was rumored to be in talks for the titular role back in May, with Oliver Jackson-Cohen also a fan favorite choice for the character (pictured in February, 2020)

Isaac previously starred in Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker and X-Men: Apocalypse, and he can be seen in Denis Villeneuve's adaptation of Frank Herbert's Dune, premiering October 21, 2021.

Despite the pandemic, the actor has been as in-demand as ever.

In addition to Moon Knight, he will be starring in Metal Gear Solid, Armageddon Time and the star-studded film about the making of The Godfather, Francis and The Godfather.

Isaac will be playing director Francis Ford Coppola while Jake Gyllenhaal will be portraying producer Robert Evans.
Jeremy Clarkson's former mistress has claimed she 'suffered a breakdown' after splitting from the ex-Top Gear host.

Phillipa Sage, 51, called the TV star, 61, the 'love of her life' and said their split was 'the lowest point in her life' as she spoke about their relationship for the first time.

Jeremy was accused of having an affair with Phillipa in 2011 when he was still married to Frances Cain. The pair then divorced in 2014 and Jeremy continued to date Phillipa until 2017.

Candid: Jeremy Clarkson's former mistress Phillipa Sage has claimed she 'suffered a breakdown' after splitting from the ex-Top Gear host (pictured together in Australia in 2011)

Phillipa said that the break up combined with her father becoming unwell and the fall out from Jeremy leaving Top Gear after an altercation with a producer lead to her breakdown.

She told The Mirror: 'We were all burned out and the stress of it all caused my worst breakdown ever. Truly the lowest point in my life. But it was to prove the glorious turning point.'

She added: 'Jeremy was the love of my life and I thought it would be forever .'

A representative for Jeremy has been contacted by MailOnline for a comment.

Complicated: Jeremy was accused of having an affair with Phillipa in 2011 when he was still married to Frances Cain (pictured with Francis)

Jeremy was accused of having an affair with events organiser Phillipa while touring Australia, South Africa and Norway filming for Top Gear.

He was also seen kissing her while on holiday with her in Greece.

Jeremy's alleged affair with Phillipa - who worked alongside him on his hit BBC motoring show - first came to light in 2011.

Jeremy and Frances tied the knot in 1993. Before that he married Alex Hall in 1989 but their relationship lasted just six months.

Upset: Phillipa who called the TV star, 61, the 'love of her life' said she thought the romance would 'last forever' (pictured with ex-wife Francis in 2010)

Phillipa's comments come after after earlier this week Jeremy said he is worried he'll die this year.

The TV presenter turned 61 in April, but is concerned he'll follow in the footsteps of many of his friends and family who died at that age.

'Everyone I know dies at 61. All my friends did, my dad did, thats when you go. If I make it to 62, Ill be here forever,' Jeremy told Saga Magazine. 'When dad died, I thought of him as an old man, but I dont feel old.'

His father, Edward Grenville Clarkson, died in 1994 at 61.

Exes: Jeremy and Frances tied the knot in 1993 (pictured in 2012). Before that he married Alex Hall in 1989 but their relationship lasted just six months

'When I see myself on screen I think, "Whos that?" I always expect a 19-year-old to be looking back at me. But old people dont look like we think they should,' the Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? host added.

'When my generation is in old peoples homes were not going to be dancing to Vera Lynn, itll be White Riot by The Clash.'

Jeremy suffered from COVID-19 over Christmas and feared that he would 'die on my own' from it.

The presenter wrote about his health scare in The Sunday Times, sharing that he began to feel unwell four days before Christmas.

Clarkson said that after Googling his symptoms, he eventually got tested for coronavirus where it came back positive.

'The doctor was very clear,' the presenter recalled in his column in January. 'I'd feel under the weather for between five and 14 days and then I'd either get better or I'd have to go to hospital.

'Where, because I am 60 and fat, and because I've smoked half a million cigarettes and had double pneumonia, I'd probably die, on my own, in a lonely plastic tent.'
A tea bag is small, porous, sealed bag containing dried tea leaves, which is immersed in boiling water to make hot drink. Traditionally, tea bags have been square or rectangle in shape. Recently circular and tetrahedral bags have come to the market. The global automatic tea bag packaging equipment market will grow at a CAGR of 4.46% during the period.

Growth by Region

Europe will dominate the market due to growing consumer interest about the consumption of tea. Turkey, Germany, and the UK have contributed significant share in the market.

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Drivers vs Constraints

Increasing adoption of automation among packaging equipment manufacturers is major factor driving the market. The need for absolute perfection in terms of efficiency and flexibility is also driving the automatic tea bag packaging equipment market.

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Industry Trends and Updates

Teepack presented one of the newest member of their machine portfolio, PERFECTA FAMILY SIZE. The machine has been designed to fill double-chamber tea bags with up to 22 cm2 filling volume, which makes it an ideal partner for the packaging of XL tea bags with thread and cardboard tag. The machine also provides the opportunity for the tea bags to be produced either with a stapled or a knotted thread.

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Where is the 844 area code Location?

844 doesnt have a physical location. Its just the next in the series of area codes (800, 888, 877, 866, 855) that allow for toll-free calling from anywhere in the United States.

The 844 area code was put into service in December 2013. 800 numbers, known for being toll-free for the caller, had simply run out of options. It became common to see 866 and 877 numbers that would provide the same service.

Currently, toll-free area codes in the U.S. are 800, 833, 844, 855, 866, 877, and 888. These area codes have become commonplace and many people dont question them as they were once linked to legitimate businesses, organizations, and government agencies.

If 800 numbers are the norm, what makes 844 so special? While it is offered to businesses for a fee, just like the other numbers, the percentage of scam calls using the area code is very high. Many reports detail calls from the number using scare tactics demanding return calls and/or personal information.

Currently, area code 844 is located in 20 North American countries, including the U.S. and affiliated territories, Canada and several Caribbean countries.

Canadas tollfree numbers begin with 800, 833, 844, 855, 866, 877, or 888. These digits are referred to as tollfree dial codes. These tollfree dial codes are overseen by the North American Numbering Plan (NANP).  Canadas tollfree numbers are sometimes called the Canada 800 number.

Its part of the North American Numbering Plan, an integrated telephone numbering system that allows area codes to be shared with participating countries.

Get a second phone number for life Choose from over 300 area codes in US and Canada, plus 1000 minutes talk time or 6000 text messages annually for only $25!

Getting an 844 number is relatively easy. Legally, the person or business requesting the number must purchase and register it with legitimate phone service. Illegally, a user can use VoIP services to mask their number using any prefix they like.

What is the difference between 844 and other toll-free numbers?

844 area code location

As of writing, there are 7 toll-free numbers in the United States, 800, 833, 844, 855, 866, 877, 888. Most of them are for the whole of North America however, a few are reserved for specific regions:

800-389  Bahamas

800-534  Barbados

800-623  Bermuda

800-415  Dominican Republic

800-751  Dominican Republic

800-907  Dominican Republic

800-271  Trinidad

800-855 is for the deaf or hearing impaired.

Receiving Unknown Calls

If you receive an unknown call with an 844 area code prefix, be cautioned. It may well be a legitimate phone call.

Let the call go to voicemail. The message the person leaves (if any) will tip you off if its a scam. Some people have reported receiving calls regarding:

Arrest warrants

Health Insurance or Medicare

Legal Issues

Fraudulent credit cards or banks

Lotteries

Charities

844 area code

Before you return a call to a number in the 844 area code, use a reverse phone search to learn if the number is legitimate. If the call is an 844 area code scam, use your phone to block the number to cut down on the calls.

If the caller makes threats, report the information immediately to local law enforcement. You should also ask your phone company about spam blocking tools and do a search to find apps that you can download to your mobile device.

Get a second phone number for life Choose from over 300 area codes in US and Canada, plus 1000 minutes talk time or 6000 text messages annually for only $25!

Go to fcc.gov/robocalls to receive information on available robocall blocking tools. You should register your number with the National Do Not Call Registry. The Do Not Call Registry was created to stop sales calls from legitimate companies, so it may not stop calls from scammers.

However, it could make it easier for you to spot the calls. Its recommended that you report unwanted calls immediately and avoid answering calls from that number in the future.

Where is the 844 area code Location?

Area code 844 is primarily located in 20 North American countries, including the United States and its territories, Canada and a number of Caribbean countries.

The area code is part of the North American Numbering Plan, which is an integrated telephone-numbering system where numbering resources are shared among participating countries.

Area code 844 is used for toll-free numbers in a number of countries covered under the NANP. Toll-free numbers allow callers to contact people and businesses without being charged for the call, and the cost for using the number is paid for by the toll-free subscriber. Other area codes covered by the NANP include 800, 855, 866, 877, and 888.

The area code 844 is one of many utilized for toll-free calling by businesses and organizations in North America:

United States of America

Canada

The Caribbean Islands

Any other country participating in the North American Numbering Plan

Get a second phone number for life! Choose from over 300 area codes in the US and Canada plus 1000 minutes talk time or 6000 SMS messages annually. All for only $25!

The answer from Chris Owen gives some pertinent data to behind the scenes workings of some toll-free numbers that redirect your call to a line where there is a charge for the call. This is somewhat of a scam because callers are not informed about the charges.

The links below provide helpful information regarding toll-free calling. 800, 844, 855, 866, 877 and 888 area codes

Details, official location, official service date, history and time zone

Are calls from 844 area code a scam?

While there are a large number of 844 numbers used by customer service teams, scammers also use them. They know that a lot of people will legitimately think they are being called by a customer service team. They use this trust to claim they are from a wide range of companies; law practices, banks retail stores, and tech support teams.

Look up the company on the internet to check that the company they claim to work actually uses the number they are calling on. If you dont find the number on their official website, hang up and block the number.

What Is a Toll-Free Number and How Does it Work? Toll-Free Area Codes List | All Toll-Free Number Exchanges

Calling a toll free/freephone number from abroad

To satisfy the market, 888 numbers were created in 1996.

877 and 866 numbers became available in 1998 and 1999.

855 debuted in 2010.

844 area code

Get a second phone number for life Choose from over 300 area codes in US and Canada, plus 1000 minutes talk time or 6000 text messages annually for only $25!

There is such a vast market for toll-free numbers that new toll-free prefixes have been created. Sep 14, 2016.

Where is the 844 area code?

Although area code 844 is not assigned to a geographical area or time zone, calls to any toll free number may be restricted by the customer.

Area Code 884 has not been assigned for use by the North American Numbering Plan Administrator. Area Code 884 has been officially set aside by the North American Numbering Plan Administrator for future toll free numbers. The toll free numbers currently in use are 800, 833, 844, 855, 866, 877, and 888.

Get 844 Numbers for Your Business. 844 is a toll free area code, just like 800. A prefix of 8 represents calls that are paid for by the recipient, rather than the caller. When people think of toll free calling, they usually think of 800 numbers, but there are many other options that function in the same way.

While there are a large number of 844 numbers used by customer service teams, scammers also use them. They know that a lot of people will legitimately think they are being called by a customer service team. They use this trust to claim they are from a wide range companies; law practices, banks retail stores and tech support teams.

Look up the company on the internet to check that the company they claim to work actually uses the number they are calling on. If you dont find the number on their official website, hang up and block the number.

Get a second phone number for life! Choose from over 300 area codes in the US and Canada plus 1000 minutes talk time or 6000 SMS messages annually. All for only $25!

Can I send text messages with my 844 number?

Yep! As long as your number is text enabled, customers can text your toll-free numbers and you can text back. In the United States of America, Canada, and other countries participating in the North American Numbering Plan, a tollfree telephone number has one of the area codes 800, 833, 844, 855, 866, 877, and 888.

You can send text messages to 844 numbers if it is registered as a text enabled number. Toll-free text messaging can be utilised to send out bulk texts, so make sure you know many other people may have received the same message even if it sounds personalized.

Companies can also send individual text messages from 844 numbers so they allow one-on-one text messages too. Standard text message rates may apply when sending messages to a toll-free number.

844 area code

You can send text messages to 844 numbers if it is registered as a text enabled number. Toll-free text messaging can be utilised to send out bulk texts, so make sure you know many other people may have received the same message even if it sounds personalized.

Companies can also send individual text messages from 844 numbers so they allow one-on-one text messages too. Standard text message rates may apply when sending messages to a toll-free number.

Somewhere, Nowhere, Every Where! 844 is NOT an area code. 844 is a redirect number. So if you call 844 555 5555 that number is call forwarded to another number somewhere else.

The difference is if you called the number directly that the 844 number is call forwarded to then YOU pay for the long-distance charge that is associated with the number.

Get a second phone number for life! Choose from over 300 area codes in the US and Canada plus 1000 minutes talk time or 6000 SMS messages annually. All for only $25!

Companies early on did not want to burden customers with charges and elected to PAY FOR the costs to complete the call. Hence TOLL-FREE numbers were set aside for them. 833, 844, 855, 866, 877, and 888. So 888, 877, 833, 800, 844, 855, 866 and there are others in wait to be used to FORWARD to a REAL number somewhere else.

Where does the 844 area code come from?

Someone asked if they BUY a toll-free number if that would stop Robo or scam calls. LOL, nope, the 800 toll-free numbers even the 900 toll number are re-director numbers to a real phone number, so you still need a regular phone number a THAT is the number that scams and robocalls are targeting.

The 844 area code is used across North America so it does not allow us to see where the call is coming from.

There is no specific area that uses 844, it can be used from any location in the country. So knowing it is an 844 number will not give you much insight as to where the person is calling from or the location of the person you are about to call is.

The call could be coming from New York, LA, Chicago, Houston, or anywhere in between!

Area code 844 operates in countries in the North American Numbering Plan, including the following 25 North American countries, USA, Canada, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guam, Jamaica, Monserrat, North Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, Saint Kitts, and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent, and the Grenadines, Sint Maarten, Trinidad, and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands and the United States Virgin Islands.

Get 844 Numbers for Your Business

844 is a toll free area code, just like 800. A prefix of 8 represents calls that are paid for by the recipient, rather than the caller. When people think of toll free calling, they usually think of 800 numbers, but there are many other options that function in the same way.

Why choose an 844 area code?

Toll free numbers are so popular that the telecommunications industry had to reach beyond 800 numbers. In order to provide the nations businesses with more options, they added 888, 877, 866, 855, 844, and 833 area codes. All of these numbers allow a user to call free of charge, putting the price of the call on the business rather than the customer.

Worried that an 844 number doesnt seem toll free? Dont worry! Today, these numbers are widely known and accepted as true 800 number alternatives.

Grasshopper carries all the options, as well as local numbers. We have tons of 844 numbers in stock.

How to Get an 844 Number:

Choose the 844 number you want for your business.

Choose a provider and check availability. A phone service like Grasshopper can check 844 number availability and provide you with many different options.

Purchase the number. Once you have chosen a service provider and an available number, all thats left is to buy it!

Tips for choosing a number:

Use your business name or an industry-specific term! (Think 1-844-Flowers or 1-844-Contacts.)

Keep it simple. Avoid odd or unique spellings.

Make it easy to remember. Try rhyming numbers or using the same digits in a row.

How do I block an 844 number?

Choose Settings, then the Call blocking option. This is where youll add the numbers of callers youd like to ignore. Simply tap the Add number or Blocklist option, and key in whatever the number is. You can also choose a contact here, assuming youve saved the number of the annoying caller.

Area Code 844 History:

With toll-free numbers, the charges are paid for by the party who is called instead of the caller. Although area code 844 is not assigned to a geographical area or time zone, calls to any toll-free number may be restricted by the customer. Other toll-free area codes are 800, 833, 855, 866, 877, and 888.

Why do I keep getting calls from area code 844?

On ALL robocalls and on ALL sales solicitation calls, the Caller ID, all ten digits of it, are ALWAYS FAKE. The digits are chosen by the illegitimate phone company hired by the sales firm to make you curious enough to answer them so you can receive a sales solicitation.

If you elect to call them back instead, youll probably be directed to a salesman who will give you the sales solicitation anyway. You have two choices: Either dont answer or hang up as soon as you hear a sales pitch.

844 telephone numbers are toll-free and can be registered fairly easily by individuals and organizations. While phone numbers with an 844 prefix can be used by legit customer support centers, theyre also heavily used by scammers to con their victims.

How many stamps do I need to send letters within the United States?

As has been noted, caller ID has been rendered moot, as a tool to avoid unwanted solicitations, by rogue phone providers. Recently I started fighting back the only way I could think of: pretend to be interested and consume as much of their time as possible.

I made up a bogus credit card number to give him (written down for reference) and, the first attempt to pay gave him only 15 digits. He informed me of this, so I read the whole number but transposed 2 of the digits. He pointed out the discrepancy, so I made him wait for me to look for my glasses.

Of course, after finally giving him the same 16 digit answer twice, that number failed. He asked if I had another card to try, and I said, you know it would be really helpful if you took me off your list and never called me again, could you do that for me, please?

Get a second phone number for life! Choose from over 300 area codes in the US and Canada plus 1000 minutes talk time or 6000 SMS messages annually. All for only $25!

The dude was livid, why would you waste my time like that, he snarled through clenched teeth. Right back at you man, sometimes you call me 34 times in a single day, what part of Im not interested dont you get?

Then he became very unprofessional, using homophobic epithets and suggesting things that are anatomically impossible. I find that to be unconstructive, so I wished him a nice day and hung up and then laughed for a good 30 minutes, it was MOST entertaining!

What Is a Toll-Free Number and How Does it Work?

Toll free numbers are telephone numbers with distinct three-digit codes that can be dialed from landlines with no charge to the person placing the call. Such numbers allow callers to reach businesses and individuals out of the area without being charged a long-distance fee for the call.

Toll-free numbers are particularly common for customer-service calling. Toll-free service has traditionally provided potential customers and others with a free and convenient way to contact businesses. Wireless callers, however, will be charged for the airtime minutes used during a toll-free call unless they have an unlimited calling plan.

844 area code north america

Customers can also send text messages to toll-free numbers, so long as those numbers are text-enabled, and businesses can send texts in response.

sort by: Toll free codes  800, 888, 877, 866, 855, 844 and 833.

Toll free numbers are numbers that begin with one of the following three-digit codes: 800, 888, 877, 866, 855, 844 or 833. Although 800, 888, 877, 866, 855, 844 and 833 are all toll free codes, they are not interchangeable.

Dialing a number using a 1-800 prefix would reach a different recipient than dialing that number using a 1-888 prefix. Calls to each toll-free number are routed to a particular local telephone number.

sort by: How are toll free numbers assigned?

The FCC assigns most toll free numbers on a first-come, first-served basis. Toll free subscribers choose entities called Responsible Organizations or RespOrgs to reserve numbers on their behalf and to manage and administer the appropriate records for the toll free subscribers.

Many RespOrgs also provide toll-free service. RespOrgs have access to a toll-free database that contains information regarding the status of all toll-free numbers. Somos, Inc., administrator of the toll-free number database, certifies RespOrgs.

The FCC made certain numbers in the 833 toll-free code available via an auction. The 833 Auction is an experiment to determine how to use competitive bidding to most effectively assign toll-free numbers. For more information about the 833 Auction, visit Get a second phone number for life!

You can contact a RespOrg if you want to obtain a toll-free number. If you need help locating a RespOrg, call or text the Somos Help Desk at 1-844-HEY SOMOS (1-844-439-7666), or visit Get a second phone number for life! for assistance.

sort by: The FCCs role

The FCC sets the rules for getting and using toll free numbers. The FCC requires that toll free numbers be portable, meaning that a subscriber can port, or move, their number to a new RespOrg when changing service providers.

However, the FCC is not involved in the actual assignment of toll free numbers and cannot access the number database. Nor can the FCC provide any information about the status of a number.

What is a vanity number?

A vanity number is a toll free telephone number that spells a name, word or acronym chosen by the subscriber, such as 1-800-FLOWERS or 1-888-NEW-CARS.

Warehousing, hoarding and brokering toll free numbers

FCC rules prohibit RespOrgs from warehousing toll free numbers. A RespOrg may not legally reserve a toll free number without having an actual toll free subscriber for whom the number is being reserved. RespOrgs who warehouse numbers are subject to penalties.

Hoarding by subscribers is similarly prohibited by FCC rules. A subscriber may not acquire more toll free numbers than the subscriber intends to use. Hoarding also includes the illegal practice of number brokering  the selling or offering to sell a toll free number.

The FCC has provided an exception to the rules prohibiting warehousing, hoarding, and number brokering for numbers assigned via competitive biddings, such as the numbers assigned in the 833 Auction.

Printable Version

What Is a Toll Free Number and How Does It Work? (pdf)

Conclusion: Where is the 844 area code Location

Area code 844 was placed into service. The 844 area code is used across North America so it does not allow us to see where the call is coming from.

There is no specific area that uses 844, it can be used from any location in the country. So knowing it is an 844 number will not give you much insight as to where the person is calling from or the location of the person you are about to call is. The call could be coming from New York, LA, Chicago, Houston or anywhere in between!

Get a second phone number for life! Choose from over 300 area codes in US and Canada plus 1000 minutes talk time or 6000 SMS messages annually. All for only $25!

Area code 844 operates in countries in the North American Numbering Plan, including the following 25 North American countries, USA, Canada, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guam, Jamaica, Monserrat, North Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, Saint Kitts, and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent, and the Grenadines, Sint Maarten, Trinidad, and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands and the United States Virgin Islands.

With toll-free numbers, the charges are paid for by the party who is called instead of the caller. Although area code 844 is not assigned to a geographical area or time zone, calls to any toll-free number may be restricted by the customer. Other toll-free area codes are 800, 833, 855, 866, 877, and 888.

844 doesnt have a physical location. Its just the next in the series of area codes (800, 888, 877, 866, 855) that allow for toll-free calling from anywhere in the United States.

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Market Research Future published a half-cooked research report on Diacetone Alcohol Market Research Report- Forecast to 2023

Market Overview and Growth Factors:

Diacetone Alcohol Market is predicted to touch USD 1594.5 million at a 4.85% CAGR over the forecast period (2019-2023), states the latest Market Research Future (MRFR) report. Diacetone alcohol is a colorless, oxygenated solvent that has an aromatic odor. Additional factors pushing market growth include the growing chemical industry and the different benefits that diacetone alcohol offers such as high film-forming ability, brilliant gloss, quick dry time, and better quality.

Various factors are propelling the diacetone alcohol market growth. Some of these factors, according to the Market Research Future report, include its use as a solvent in consumer products and industrial products for purification process, and its use in household cleaners, thinners, paints, and adhesives, and these alternatives help to significantly reduce VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions, thus in most cases are environmentally friendly, effective, and efficacious. It is soluble both in the organic and inorganic compound. This solvent has a wide range of applications including metalworking fluids, lubricants, cleaning chemicals, drilling fluids, coatings, paints and coatings, and others.

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Key Players:

Leading players profiled in the Diacetone Alcohol Market Trends, include:

SRI NEELIMA LABORATORIES (India),

Aareydrugs & Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (India),

Shanghai Jianyuan Chemical Co., Ltd. (China),

Galaxy Chemicals (India),

KH Neochem Co., Ltd. (Japan),

Prasol Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. (India),

Recochem Inc. (Canada),

Monument Chemical Inc. (U.S.),

Arkema Group (France),

Solvay S.A (Belgium),

Key players have employed several strategies for better exposure in the market. Such strategies include collaboration, acquisition, mergers, expansions, product innovations and launches, research and development, and more. These strategies, along with helping them in cementing a strong foothold in the market, are also helping them in gaining the needed momentum.

Market Segmentation:

The MRFR report offers a wide segmental analysis of the Diacetone Alcohol Market Analysis on the basis of end use industry and application.

Based on end use industry, the diacetone alcohol market is segmented into oil and gas, automotive, textiles, paints and coatings, and others. Of these, the paints and coating industry segment will dominate the market over the forecast period.

Based on application, the diacetone alcohol market is segmented into preservatives, drilling fluids, cleaning, chemical intermediates, solvents, and others. Of these, the solvents segment will have the largest share in the market over the forecast period.

Regional Analysis:

The Diacetone Alcohol market in North America is predicted to have the second-largest share in the market over the forecast period. It is predicted to touch USD 331.4 million by 2023. The United States is the key contributor in this region and is expected to remain dominant all throughout the forecast period. This is chiefly owing to higher penetration of various end user industries in this country.

The diacetone alcohol market in Europe is predicted to have significant growth over the forecast period. Germany is the leading contributor in this region with regards to volume and value. This is owing to the rising demand for paints and coatings from automotive as well as household industries.

The diacetone alcohol market in the Middle East and Africa and Latin America are both predicted to have moderate growth over the forecast period. Factors which can be attributed to the growth of the market in these regions include increased investment on artistic beautification of residential and commercial setups in coupled with rising disposable incomes that have resulted in uptake of assorted paints and coatings that in turn have pushed the market growth.

Based on the region, the Diacetone Alcohol Market Trends covers the latest trends and growth opportunities across North America, the Asia Pacific, Latin America, Europe, and the Middle East and Africa. Of these, the APAC region will spearhead the market over the forecast period and is predicted to grow at a 5.35% CAGR. Factors which can be attributed for the growth of the market in this region include rapid industrialization, growing exports, cheap labor cost, and the presence of a good number of producers.

Browse key industry insights spread across 114 pages with 35 market data tables & 11 figures & charts from the report, Diacetone Alcohol Market Information- by Application (Solvents, Chemical Intermediates, Cleaning, Drilling Fluids, Preservatives, and Others), by End Use Industry (Paints & Coating, Textiles, Automotive, Oil & Gas, Others), and by Region (Asia Pacific, Europe, North America, Latin America, Middle East &Africa,) - Forecast till 2023 in detail along with the table of contents @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/diacetone-alcohol-market-3807
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
CHICAGO (AP)  Family members of a 13-year-old boy who was fatally shot by a Chicago police officer announced plans Wednesday to build a home in rural Wisconsin where at-risk boys could go to escape the dangers of the city streets.

Adam Toledo's mother stood in front of a mural of her son that was recently painted in the Little Village neighborhood where he was killed on March 29. She lamented that while she could not be with her son Wednesday on what would have been his 14th birthday, she might be able to help save others like him.

What I really want is to have Adam back, and we can't do that, Betty Toledo wrote in a speech that was read by someone else because she was too emotional to speak. We can try to help other families protect their sons from the temptations that took Adam into the street that night, the night he was killed.

The family also alluded to the depiction of Adam's life that has been part of the narrative since shortly after his death when Mayor Lori Lightfoot seemed to suggest that the boy was involved with gangs.

Gangs are preying on our most vulnerable, corrupting these young minds with promises of familia and lucre, she said during a press conference in which she demanded the police find out how the boy got the gun that police say he was carrying until just before he was shot.

The shooting garnered national attention and brought new scrutiny to the Chicago Police Department's use-of-force policy, particularly after the release of the video that shows the boy wasn't holding a gun the instant he was shot. On Wednesday, the department announced it was implementing a new policy that significantly limits when officers are authorized to chase suspects on foot.

But it was the boy's short life that Toledo's family and others focused on Wednesday. While Lightfoot and others have suggested that the boy was drawn to gangs, the family also wanted it known that he was a curious little boy who lived to play with his younger brother, loved animals, made jokes and told his mother not to worry.

He was a little kid, he made one mistake, and everyone is just judging him and assuming things from the last few moments and minutes of his life, said Esmeralda Toledo, the boy's 24-year-old sister. Nobody, she said, is deserving the way he died or the bad, negative things being said about him.

The family's attorney, Joel Hirschhorn, said that Wednesday's announcement had to be delayed a short time because the artist and the family wanted to paint over what some cowardly, evil person had scrawled on the mural.

Hirschhorn said donations have already come in, and he has signed a contract to buy about 71 acres in Potosi in southwestern Wisconsin, including a small barn, a facility boys can sleep in, and land to grow crops and raise livestock. Modeled after Boys Farm in South Carolina, Hirschhorn said the plan is to take these marginalized, at-risk young boys out of danger, where gangs and guns and violence pervades and put them into a safe environment where they can learn about farming and work as a team.

Authorities have said that a gun detection alerted police to a spot where a gun had been fired several times. When they arrived, an officer spotted the boy and the man they later said had fired the weapon, and chased them.

They said Toledo, who had apparently been given the gun by the man after he fired it, ran into an alley. Body camera video showed a portion of the foot chase, and the instant when Officer Eric Stillman shot Toledo in the chest less than a second after he either dropped or tossed the gun aside.

The Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA), which reviews police shootings, is continuing its investigation. On Wednesday, spokesman Ephraim Eaddy said he could not comment on the investigation and that no recommendation about Stillman has been made. Stillman was placed on desk duty and in what Eaddy said was an unusual move, the board recommended that the time Stillman remain on desk duty be extended 30 days.
Barley ears a hit with business owners looking to bring auspiciousness, boost sales

People's Daily Online) 11:15, May 27, 2021

Barley ears, or Damai in Chinese, which is also a homonym for strong sales, are being widely used at opening ceremonies of stores to bring in hot sales of the stores products. At the same time, they are also a good material for making bouquets to decorate rooms.

Barley ears (Photo/pixabay.com)

A flower store in Chengdu, capital of southwest Chinas Sichuan province, has seen increasing sales of baskets of barley ears since it began to sell them two years ago. This April alone, the store sold about 300 baskets of barley ears.

A basket of barley ears can sell for as much as 368 yuan due to its high popularity. One customer spent nearly 15,000 yuan ($2,339) purchasing 88 baskets of barley ears from the store, the largest order the store had received since its opening.

Barley ears can also keep for a long time. Fresh flowers can easily droop in the summer heat, but barley ears will retain their shape for a long time, said the shop owner.

Liu Zhiyu, who supplies barley ears to the flower store, said his shop sold over 7,000 baskets on May 1, and the products even went out of stock ahead of the May Day holiday.

The golden barley ears sold in the market are different from those grown in the fields, according to Liu, who explained that in order to make golden barley ears, they would first harvest long-eared wheat crops that are approaching maturity, and then have them cleaned, dried and dyed.

In 2019, Liu signed contracts with wheat growers, entrusting the farmers to plant a barley variety that is suitable for making bouquets. Much to Lius surprise, the products sold out quickly after they hit the market in 2020.

Last year, Liu expanded the planting area of the barley to about 6.67 hectares in order to meet market demand. Many people like me have contracted land to plant barley this year, as the demand for barley remains high, Liu revealed.

When asked if the barley ears are overpriced, Ma Liwei, deputy secretary general of China Flower Arrangement Association, said 368 yuan is a reasonable price for a basket of barley ears when labor, material, and logistical costs are taken into consideration.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
Market Definition:

Inorganic Rheology Modifiers are segmented into type, application, and region. On the basis of the type, the market is segregated into clay, fumed silica, specialty clays, and others. The fumed silica is the most widely used inorganic rheology modifier owing to thixotropic properties, especially in paints and coatings industry. The product is used in the room temperature vulcanizing silicone sealants for water proofing and structural glazing in buildings. Inorganic rheology modifiers are being increasingly used in the skin care products such as for lightening of acne marks, antiperspirant, fragrance, and hair care products owing to inflammability and improved viscosity.

Market Scenario and Growth Factors:

Based on the technology, the market is segmented into water-based and solvent-based. Clay is made using water-based technology owing to strong heat and sag resistance. Fumed silica and specialty clay are made using solvent-based technology due to shear thinning properties, which makes them suitable for various applications.

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Based on the application, the global market is segmented into paints & coatings, cosmetics & personal care products, adhesives & sealants, composites, household and industrial products, pharmaceuticals, printing ink, cable compounds & gels, oil-well drilling, electronics, and others. Paints and coatings accounted for the largest market share in 2017 owing to surging demand from the major end-use industries such as automotive and construction industry. Cosmetics & personal care industry is the second largest application owing to enlarging demand for deodorants and UV protective skin care products globally.

Competitive Analysis

Some of the key players in the global Inorganic Rheology Modifiers Market are:

BASF SE (Germany),

Evonik Industries AG (Germany),

Jaychemmarketing (India),

Cabot Corporation (U.S,)

XUNYU CHEM (China),

Orisil (Ukraine),

OCI COMPANY Ltd (South Korea),

ALTANA (Germany),

Tokuyama Corporation (Japan),

Wacker Chemie AG (Germany).

Regional Analysis

Based on the region, the Inorganic Rheology Modifier Market Size is segregated into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.

Asia Pacific is the fastest growing region in the inorganic rheology modifiers market owing to the increasing demand for cosmetics & personal care products coupled with rising disposable income of the consumers.

North America is the second largest region in the inorganic rheology modifiers market with expanding cosmetics & personal care industry as a result of rising need for UV protective skin care products. Additionally, increasing spending on healthcare coupled with rising health awareness and high per capita income of the consumers is likely to propel the market growth.

Europe is another significant region in the market due to growing healthcare industry with rising geriatric population. Moreover, surging demand for paints & coating from the reviving automotive industry is driving the market growth.

Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are likely to witness a moderate growth during the review period due to rising spending on the cosmetic and skin care products.

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Tyler Sizemore / Hearst Connecticut Media

With COVID-19 restrictions lifting across Connecticut, state police said they expect to see a greater number of vehicles back on the roads and highways this Memorial Day weekend  and they are ready to keep drivers safe with increased enforcement.

As residents hit the road for the beach, barbecues and more, troopers from each of the 11 state police barracks will patrol state roads and highways during the three-day weekend, including extra roving DUI patrols from Thursday night through the evening of Memorial Day.
Daytona Beach, FL (32114)

Today

Sunny to partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 92F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low near 75F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph.
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According to a new market report published by Persistence Market Research Global Market Study on Ophthalmic Devices: Asia to Witness Highest Growth by 2020, the global ophthalmic devices market was valued at USD 29,171.5 million in 2014 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% from 2014 to 2020, to reach an estimated value of USD 42,685.1 million in 2020.

Globally, the ophthalmic devices market is witnessing significant growth due to increasing prevalence of eye disorders, such as diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration. In addition, growing global aging population, increasing government initiatives towards healthcare infrastructure in developing countries, and increasing incidence of lifestyle-associated diseases are also driving the growth of the market.

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Some of the major players in the global ophthalmic devices market:

Johnson & Johnson.

Essilor International.

Bausch & Lomb Incorporated.

Novartis AG.

HOYA CORPORATION.

Abbott Laboratories, Inc.

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However, lack of awareness among people about eye disorders, poor primary healthcare infrastructure, and lack of insurance in developing countries hamper growth of the global ophthalmic devices market. In addition, eye diseases in children are also increasing due to the general lack of awareness.

The global ophthalmic devices market is anticipated to grow from an estimated USD 29,171.5 million in 2014 to USD 42,685.1 million in 2020 at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period.

Age-related eye diseases, such as glaucoma, cataract, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration, are the leading causes of visual impairment and blindness in North America. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, approximately 22 million Americans aged 40 and above were affected by cataract and 2.3 million Americans were affected by glaucoma in 2011.

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In Europe, increasing prevalence of chronic eye diseases among the rising aging population is becoming a challenge for the European healthcare system. In France, the number of age-related macular degeneration cases was 0.3 million in 2000 and it is anticipated to increase by 0.5 million in 2020.

However, glaucoma, cataract, and diabetic retinopathy are the major causes of blindness in Asia. Cataract can be held responsible for 50% to 80% of all cases of blindness in Southeast Asia. The prevalence of age-related macular degeneration is also increasing in Asia due to increase in life expectancy and rising incidence of diabetes among the younger population. As per the Centre for Eye Research Australia, prevalence of diabetic retinopathy among people ranged between 17% and 22% in India and 43.1% in rural China in 2012.

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New Delhi: Strides Pharma Science and Taiwan-based specialty pharmaceutical firm TLC have partnered to launch Liposomal Amphotericin B, a drug used in the treatment of mucormycosis (black fungus), in India.

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has approved TLC's new drug application (NDA) of Amphotericin B Liposome for Injection 50mg in India for immediate importation per approved usage and indication, Strides and TLC said in a joint statement on Thursday.

"This approval from CDSCO allows us to immediately import and distribute the product in India and help ease the crisis arising out of an unprecedented rise in COVID-19 related mucormycosis cases," Strides CEO and MD R Ananthanarayanan said.

Mucormycosis is a serious fungal infection, also known as black fungus, and COVID-19 associated mucormycosis is life-threatening, the statement said.

AmphoTLC will be imported from Taiwan by Stelis Biopharma Pvt Ltd, the biotech arm of Strides group, and will be launched and distributed in India immediately by Strides, it added.

"AmphoTLC is the first and only complex generic drug to have achieved bioequivalence to Gilead's AmBisome, proving its sameness to the safest form of amphotericin B in the world. We are glad that the result of years of our hard work can help India in its times of need," TLC President George Yeh said.

AmphoTLC is a liposomal amphotericin B injection indicated for severe systemic fungal infections such as mucormycosis, the statement said.

Shares of Strides Pharma Science were trading at Rs 816.70 per scrip on BSE, up 0.50 per cent from its previous close.
The health department submitted a report to the state government stating that the night curfew and lockdown since April 20 had contributed to a significant reduction in corona positive cases in the state.  PTI

HYDERABAD: The state cabinet will meet on May 30 to discuss and take a decision on the extension of lockdown in the state.

The meeting to be chaired by Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao will discuss in detail about the implementation and impact of lockdown in the state since May 12 and the need to extend the lockdown further to check the spread of coronavirus.

The state government had imposed a night curfew across the state from 8pm to 7 am from April 20 after Covid second wave led to a steep increase in coronavirus positive cases and deaths. It was followed by the imposition of 20-hour lockdown from May 12 from 10 am to 6 am with four-hour relaxation from 6 am to 10 am. The lockdown was initially imposed for 10 days until May 22 and subsequently extended till May 30.

Official sources said that the government was in favour of extending the lockdown by a week until June 7 initially and further by another week until June 14 depending on the situation after June 7.

The health department submitted a report to the state government stating that the night curfew and lockdown since April 20 had contributed to a significant reduction in corona positive cases in the state and to ensure that this benefit is not lost, it suggested extension of lockdown further. The cabinet will discuss the suggestions of the health department and take a decision on extension of lockdown.

This apart, the cabinet would also discuss agriculture, crops, the ongoing paddy procurement process, availability of seeds and fertilisers, curbing the supply of spurious seeds ahead of kharif season set to begin on June 1.
Jagan Mohan Reddy asks District Collectors to ensure that 104 call center becomes one-stop solution centre for all the needs of people affected by Covid. Twitter

VIJAYAWADA: Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Wednesday expressed serious concern as the state was staring at shortage of medicines even as the deadly black fungus infections were on the rise.

During the Spandana review meeting, the CM noted that each patient should be given at least 50 injections a week. But the fact was that the state received only 3,000 injections from the centre which said another 2,000 would be sent soon. The state was impressing upon the centre for more vials.

On the supply of remdesivir injections, the CM said that around 50,000 injections a week were being made available to government hospitals, and around 60,000 to private hospitals, thus ensuring no shortage of the drug in the state. He ordered stern action against those selling the life-saving medicines in the black market.

Reddy called upon District Collectors to ensure that 104 call centers become one-stop solution centre for all the needs of people affected by Covid. He cautioned them against any negligence in this aspect given the pandemic situation. He said the number of calls to the toll-free number fell from 19,000 calls to 7,000 calls, a sign of decline of positive cases. He directed the officials to focus on arranging oxygen and other medical facilities for beds at temporary German hangars.

Regarding the oxygen supply, the Chief Minister appreciated the increase in oxygen supply to over 600 tonnes from 330 tonnes earlier. As of now the state had enough oxygen to last for two days even during the cyclone, he observed. He advised against oxygen wastage and called for replenishing stocks wherever necessary. He said oxygen reserves should be maintained at every Covid hospital in order to avoid any loss of life. Reviewing the enforcement of curfew, Reddy asked officials not to brook any violations.

Deputy Chief Minister Alla Krishna Srinivas, Ministers Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy and Botsa Satyanarayana, DGP Gautam Sawang, Chief Commissioner of Land Administration Neerab Kumar Prasad, Special Chief Secretary (Agriculture) Poonam Malakondaiah, Covid Command Control Chairman Dr K.S. Jawahar Reddy, Special Chief Secretary (Municipal Administration) Y Srilakshmi, Panchayat Raj Commissioner Girija Shankar, Principal Secretary (Health) Anil Kumar Singhal, Principal Secretary (Women and Child Welfare) Anuradha and other officials were present.
East Midnapore: Indian Army personnel carry out rescue and relief works during landfall process of Cyclone Yaas in East Midnapore district. (Photo: PTI)

BALASORE/Kolkata: Cyclone Yaas, packing winds of up to 130-145 kmph, whiplashed the country's eastern coasts on Wednesday, dumping heavy rain, flooding several areas, damaging houses and farmlands, and leaving at least four persons dead  three in Odisha and one in West Bengal.

Thick sheets of rain blurred India's vast coastline in the East as the cyclone made landfall around 9 am near Dhamra port in Odisha, with surging waters swamping mud-and-thatch houses in the low-lying areas of various districts, where a massive evacuation drive has been undertaken to move more than 20 lakh people to safety.

Massive tides ranging from two to four metres high gushed into seaside villages resulting in marooning of innumerable households. Several rivers were also in spate owing to the phenomenal rise in water level -- caused by the dual effect of storm surge and the astronomical tide due to the full moon.

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, who has stationed herself at the state secretariat Nabanna since Tuesday to monitor rescue and relief operations, claimed that her state is the "worst-affected" and said that three lakh houses and 134 embankments have been damaged due to the cyclone.

At least one crore people were affected and three lakh houses have been damaged in West Bengal due to the rough weather conditions arising out of cyclone Yaas, Ms Banerjee said.

"We could evacuate 15,04,506 people so far to our relief centres. But around one crore people were affected by the disaster which damaged nearly three lakh houses and destroyed at least 134 dams the number of which may go up. A field survey will be done later. Around 14,000 relief camps are running now," she said.

In certain areas, waves as high as the coconut trees that line the popular beaches, were seen surging.

The scenic West Bengal town of Digha, which shares the border with Odisha's Balasore district, lay swamped, with the Army being called in for rescue operations, a defence official said.

Parts of the nearby tourist towns of Mandarmani, Tajpur and Shankarpur were also inundated, with sea water entering hotels and residential areas, besides causing damage to kutcha shops and houses.

Cyclone Yaas, which spared Kolkata unlike last year, was followed by heavy rain in the districts of East Midnapore, South 24 Parganas, North 24 Parganas and Howrah.

In Odisha, seawater inundated several villages in Bahanaga and Remuna blocks in Balasore district, and Dhamra and Basudevpur in the Bhadrak district, special relief commissioner P.K. Jena said.

Thousands of kutcha houses in coastal villages in Bhadrak, Balasore and Kendrapara districts were washed away in the high tidal surge that accompanied the cyclone's roaring landfall.

Farmers, especially paddy croppers, vegetable and betel-leaf growers, were worst hit as the squally wind and incessant downpour thrashed the standing crops.

"The agriculture suffered heavy loss due to ingress of saline water which affected animal husbandry, horticulture among others. The actual extent of damage will be ascertained in assessment after 72 hours," Ms Banerjee said.

Odisha had shifted 5.8 lakh people to safer places, and West Bengal 15 lakh ahead of the cyclone, amid concerns over spread of Covid-19 infection at the temporary shelters.

The cyclonic storm weakened during the afternoon but hollered on its destructive path towards Jharkhand. The state, already on high alert, continued evacuating low-lying areas during the day amid the forecast that it would be hitting by midnight, officials in Ranchi said.

Yaas is the second cyclonic storm to hit India within a week after Tauktae tore into its western coast, causing death and destruction.

Cyclone Yaas: Eight lakh people impacted in Jharkhand; about 12,000 people evacuated

As severe cyclonic storm 'Yaas' enters Jharkhand, the state remains on high alert and has evacuated about 12,000 people to safer zones while operations are still on to minimise damage from the cyclone that pounded neighbouring Odisha and West Bengal, officials said Wednesday. The state has imposed a complete lockdown in some parts to prevent people from venturing out in view of the storm while as many as eight lakh people have already been impacted by it.

Operations are being executed on a war-footing in the vulnerable areas in East and West Singhbhum, besides some other districts due to cyclonic storm Yaas, Disaster Management Secretary Amitabh Kaushal said. Kaushal said at least eight lakh people are impacted by it in Simdega, East and West Singhbhums and Saraikela-Kharsawan districts.

"We have evacuated 10,767 persons to 310 shelter homes sites and the evacuation operations are on. A total of 848 of our villages are impacted by it. We are doing our best to prevent any casualty," East Singhbhum Deputy Commissioner Suraj Kumar said.

Bhubaneswar airport, ECoR resume service hours after landfall of Cyclone Yaas

The Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar and the East Coast Railway, headquartered at the Odisha capital, resumed operations from Wednesday evening, hours after Cyclone Yaas hit the state, officials said. The airport suspended flight services for about 20 hours while the ECoR had cancelled 124 trains in the wake of the cyclone.

The airport issued a notice to airmen (NOTAM) on Tuesday to alert airlines that its flight operations will be suspended from 11 pm to 5 am on Thursday.

However, in a Twitter post this evening, it said, "NOTAM regarding Bhubaneswar Airport closing has been cancelled/withdrawn. Bhubaneswar Airport is now operational from 1900 hrs on 26/05/2021 for flight operations."

The ECoR also decided to run some of the special trains which were cancelled in view of the cyclone.

700 people in Bengal's East Midnapore rescued by Army

The Indian Army rescued around 700 people marooned at different places in West Bengal's East Midnapore district, which bore the brunt of cyclone 'Yaas', as large tracts of land in coastal areas of the state were inundated in a storm surge, a Defence official said. Stranded people were also rescued from places submerged in the storm surge in South 24 Parganas and Howrah, he said.

The Army, which has deployed 17 cyclone-relief columns, comprising specialised personnel with equipment and inflatable boats for rescue operations in West Bengal, brought to safety marooned people in Digha and Talgachari in East Midnapore and at Orphuli in Howrah among other places, the official said.

The Indian Coast Guard has also deployed its ships and hovercraft after the cyclone made its landfall in neighbouring Odisha on Wednesday morning. "Three Coast Guard ships along with onboard helicopter, which were on an operational mission in the Bay of Bengal, have been diverted to coastal areas of West Bengal and Odisha with the fastest speed to assess the situation in the area and render appropriate assistance to any mariner in distress," the ICG said.

They will be joined by two more ships of the ICG to augment efforts in the sea.
The Congress has been demanding the immediate recall of the Lakshadweep administrator. (Photo: PTI)

New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention in the withdrawal of new regulations in Lakshadweep, saying they seek to penalise dissent and undermine grassroots democracy.

In a letter to the prime minister, he said all this is being done by the new Administrator Praful Khoda Patel in the guise of development and maintaining law and order.

"I request you to intervene in this matter and ensure that the above mentioned orders are withdrawn.The people of Lakshadweep deserve a developmental vision that respects their way of life and reflects their aspirations," Gandhi told the prime minister.

Noting that Lakshadweep's pristine natural beauty and its unique confluence of cultures have drawn people for generations, he said the custodians of its heritage seek to safeguard the archipelago for posterity.

"However, their future is threatened by the anti-people policies announced by the administrator of Lakshadweep, Shri Praful Khoda Patel. The administrator has unilaterally proposed sweeping changes without duly consulting elected representatives or the public. The people of Lakshadweep are protesting against these arbitrary actions," the former Congress chief said.

Gandhi said the administrator's attempt to undermine ecological sanctity of the island is evident in the draft Lakshadweep Development Authority Regulation issued recently.

The provisions of the regulation, he said, undermine safeguards pertaining to land ownership, dilute environmental regulations for certain activities and severely limit legal recourse available to affected persons.

"Livelihood security and sustainable development are being sacrificed for short-term commercial gains. The provision in the draft Panchayat Regulation that disqualifies members with more than two children is blatantly anti-democratic," he said.

The Congress leader highlighted that the new administrator has also proposed changes to regulations like the Prevention of Anti-Social Activities Regulation, the Lakshadweep Animals Preservation Regulation and lifting of restrictions on sale of alcohol and termed them as a deliberate assault on the cultural and religious fabric of the local community.

He said the attempt to cut ties with the Beypore port strikes at the close historical and cultural ties with Kerala.

Despite the pandemic, the administration has demolished structures used by the fisherfolk, fired contractual workers in various government departments, and relaxed quarantine norms leading to a lethal spike in Covid cases, he charged.

"Under the guise of development and maintaining law and order in a low crime union territory, the draconian regulations penalise dissent and undermine grassroots democracy," Gandhi told the prime minister in his letter.

The Congress has been demanding the immediate recall of the Lakshadweep administrator, who it says is a politician and not a bureaucrat.
Junior doctors have been given a 15-per cent increase in stipend and a government order has been issued for the purpose. Senior residents will get Rs 80,500 per month instead of the Rs 70,000 they were getting. (Representational Photo:PTI)

Hyderabad: The Telangana Junior Doctors Association called off its strike on Thursday though the issue of ex gratia for healthcare workers who died after contracting Covid-19 in the line of duty has not been resolved by the state government.

A verbal assurance has been given to the association by the government that dependents of healthcare workers will be given an ex gratia.

Junior doctors have been given a 15-per cent increase in stipend and a government order has been issued for the purpose. Senior residents will get Rs 80,500 per month instead of the Rs 70,000 they were getting.

In a meeting with health secretary S.M. Rizvi and director of health and medical education Dr Ramesh Reddy, it was also agreed that there will be allocation of beds for doctors and their family members in Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences.

A junior doctor said, "We wanted the ex-gratia issue too to be resolved but the government is of the opinion that it will differ on a case-to-case basis. They have promised us that they will look into this. Due to the ongoing pandemic and keeping the patients in mind, we are calling off the strike. We will resume duty immediately."

Indian Medical Association Telangana chapter has appealed to junior doctors and the government on Thursday morning to resolve the issue amicably.
We often hear educators lamenting the lack of creativity and innovativeness in Indians as a whole. Indeed, it is shocking that hardly any inventions have emerged from India in the past 50 years. However, we cant continue to blame our colonial shackles for the lack of creativity in terms of inventions and patents.

It is upsetting to learn from the latest data compiled by WIPO, the Geneva-based World Intellectual Property Organisation, that in 2019, companies like Samsung and Huawei filed more international patent applications each than the whole of India. India was responsible for less than one per cent of the total global applications for patents that year. It is also disturbing to know that unlike colleges and universities abroad, our higher educational institutions have no presence at all in this area. It has been inferred that not only do these figures indicate the sad state of innovative initiatives in India, they also confirm the low spending in research and development by our government. It is important to explore the reasons for this sad state of affairs.

There are many deep-rooted reasons for this intellectual famine that our country has been experiencing. Most people cite rote learning in schools, which steadily destroys imagination and creativity in young minds, as the main culprit. This article will deal with a single major reason -- that is the unconscious but constant reinforcement of plagiarism in our entire educational system.

First, the very concept and awareness of plagiarism is woefully absent in our school education. This year, when we announced in school that we would be tackling the issue of plagiarism, one of our senior students spoke up, saying: No offence meant, but why is it we were not warned about this when we produced cut-and-paste projects and presentations in the lower classes? She was spot on. Schools always looked out for factually correct and visually attractive presentations rather than original work. Unfortunately, our board examiners too reward students who produced attractive portfolios, the contents of which were gleaned from the Internet. Before the advent of the Information Age, the cut-and-paste jobs were carried out with the help of illustrated books and magazines, scissors and glue.

Forget about projects and presentations, even answers to questions and essays have been written with the help of readymade notes and guidebooks. Since these fetched enviably high scores, including in the board exams, they were in great demand, making it unnecessary for students to think for themselves and to do their own research or write their own notes. I remember an oft-repeated joke that you could write a good essay on almost any topic if you prepared just a single essay on God. So, if you were asked to write an essay on a rainy day, you could write about Gods natural creations, which included the sky and earth, sun and of course rain, and then move on to a rainy day. Moreover, students have always been encouraged to quote at length, to enhance the richness of an answer or essay. Even in undergraduate class, students quoted writers to support an argument, but seldom presented research-based evidence of his or her own.

In art class children have been made to copy images and patterns. Imaginative composition -- if set as an assignment -- was usually corrected and modified to conform to the teachers ideas. Where music is concerned, how many children are encouraged to compose their own tunes? It is a shame that creative writing is not part of the regular school curriculum. In language and grammar classes, a childs originality is killed at the primary level itself. A schoolboy, asked to write a sentence with mother, had his simple sentence: My mother has big eyes. But this was crossed out with a thick red marker and changed to: My mother is a noble lady. The next sentence, I hate drinking milk, using the word milk, was rejected in favour of: Milk is a nutritious drink. The poor boy was being set in a mould created by his unimaginative teacher.

Also, looking upon the prescribed textbook as the students Bible causes considerable damage to creative minds. If an answer was based on the subject-related textbook, it was marked correct, but if certain key phrases and terms were not used but explained in the students own words, it was more than likely that the student would be heavily penalised. This is what defeats the making of independent minds.

It is extremely urgent today that we correct all these mistakes and the lacunae of the past and begin by introducing the concepts of plagiarism and intellectual property right from the junior classes. It is true that much of early learning happens by observing and imitating. But children are imaginative too. We teachers must learn to foster this natural gift and be less rigid about the need to conform. As Picasso said: All children are born artists. The problem is to remain an artist as we grow up.

As children grow older, they could be taught to consciously acknowledge the sources from where they have taken content. This practice, if well inculcated in our young, will go a long way to making them intellectually honest. Apart from developing academic honesty, educators should encourage and celebrate original work. When our children join school in the kindergarten, they are curious, imaginative and creative. It is we adults who cramp their style and freedom by straitjacketing them. The fault that India does not produce inventors lies in ourselves.
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In this May 13, 2021 file photo, President Joe Biden speaks in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington. Biden is asking U.S. intelligence agencies to redouble their efforts to investigate the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. After months of minimizing the possibility that the coronavirus emerged from a lab accident, the administration is responding to both U.S. and world pressure for China to be more open about the outbreak. Biden said Wednesday there is insufficient evidence to conclude whether it emerged from human contact with an infected animal or from a laboratory accident.
A bulldozer is used to clear a street of debris beside the crater where the home of Ramez al-Masri was destroyed by an air-strike prior to a cease-fire reached after an 11-day war between Gaza's Hamas rulers and Israel, on Sunday in Beit Hanoun, the northern Gaza Strip.
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Three individuals who attended a Black Lives Matter protest in Derry are living with the threat of prosecution hanging over their heads almost one year on.

Following the murder of black American man George Floyd on May 25, 2020, people around the world took to the streets in protest.

An anti-racist rally was organised at Guildhall Square on June 6.

On the day local police officers issued 57 fines for breaches of the Coronavirus Health Protection Regulations.

Individuals were also told that they could face prosecution.

The Derry News has learned that nearly a year later, three people still await a decision from the Public Prosecution Service (PPS).

The PPS revealed that it has three files from the PSNI that relate to a Black Lives Matter protest in Guildhall Square.

Those files concern three individuals and are at an advanced stage of consideration by a senior public prosecutor.

It is expected that decisions will issue within the next month once all available evidence has been carefully considered and the Test for Prosecution applied.

A PPS spokesperson said: Every case is considered individually in line with the facts and circumstances of the case and the timeframe for decision will vary according to this.

All PPS decisions are taken independently, impartially and strictly in accordance with the PPS Code for Prosecutors.

Three files have also been submitted to the PPS relating to Black Lives Matter events held in Belfast.

CONCERN

Human rights campaigner and founder of the North West Migrants Forum in Derry, Lilian Seenoi-Barr, is one of the individuals facing prosecution.

Speaking to the Derry News, Mrs Seenoi Barr said: The PPS has not said whether I will be prosecuted and the PSNI keeps saying it does not have the power to cancel fines or withdraw prosecutions.

How can they fine us if they didnt understand the legislation.

This is hanging over our heads for over a year, Im very concerned as more time goes by.

She said police officers called to her house around 7pm on June 5, the day before the protest, when legislation had not been passed to allow police to enforce Covid regulations around gatherings.

The original regulations were made on March 28 which restricted gatherings to two people and breaches were subject to the enforcement powers.

On May 19 a third set of amendments were made to the Regulations and a new regulation was added allowing outdoor gatherings of up to six people.

No amendment was made to the enforcement part of the regulations to cover this new provision.

However, an emergency procedure was used for a set of amendments made on June 5 which took effect at 11pm that same night.

The PPS previously found that prosecutions could not be brought against around 2,000 people, including members of Sinn Fein, who attended the Bobby Storey funeral on June 30.

That decision was taken, in part, due to a lack of clarity around Covid regulations and because of prior engagement between the PSNI and Sinn Fein prior to the funeral.

A police watchdog also found that Covid regulations were both confusing and controversial at the time.

Mrs Seenoi Barr questioned why other events were accommodated while the PSNI warned of action that would be taken against BLM protestors before and during the BLM rally.

We organised a peaceful protest, they had no reason to suggest it would be violent.

I assured them that I had plans in place, people were going to be marshals, we had PPE for all those attending, she added.

INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Two separate reviews of policing during the pandemic criticised the PSNI approach to BLM rallies.

Conducting a review of the policing response to the Covid-19 pandemic, a Human Rights Advisor found that the PSNI approach at BLM protests was not lawful and damaged its reputation.

CCTV and body worn videos provided by the PSNI from June 6 reflect the absence of any careful consideration of the right to protest.

Protesters who raised their rights were told that the regulations were the law and that Article 2 - the right to life - trumped their rights to freedom of assembly and expression.

None of the police officers in the clips viewed appeared to consider the delicate balance required by the ECHR or the attempts by the protesters to obey the social distancing guidance and instead seemed to follow the approach dictated by senior officers in advance, the report added.

The Police Ombudsman, Marie Anderson, carried out a separate investigation after receiving 20 complaints about the policing of BLM rallies in Belfast and Derry.

She said that claims the police handling of Black Lives Matter protests and a counter demonstration earlier this year amounted to unfairness and discrimination are justified.

Although she believed this was not intentional and not based on race or ethnicity.

She said confidence in policing among some within the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities in Northern Ireland had been severely damaged.

Yesterday it emerged that Ms Anderson will now look into 'allegations of inconsistencies' in how the PSNI dealt with a Black Lives Matter protest compared to the funeral of senior republican Bobby Storey.
President Michael D. Higgins will be key-note speaker at a conference to be hosted by Ulster University's Magee Campus in Derry.

Politicians, academics and writers from across the globe will discuss Heritage, Healing and Home at the American Conference for Irish Studies 2021 which is to be broadcast from Magee on 2  5 June 2021.

This international conference, hosted by Ulster University, features contributions from President Higgins, Congressman Brendan Boyle and both the UK and Irish Ambassadors to the US, Dame Karen Pierce and Dan Mulhall.

The talks given by these high profile speakers will be free to join for the public, available to watch live online.

The line-up also includes film-maker Maurice Fitzpatrick (John Hume in America, The Boys of St Columbs), journalist Susan McKay (presenting her new work on Northern Protestants) and a preview of the new digitised edition of the famed manuscript The Cathach of Colum Cille with the Royal Irish Academy and Dublin Institute of Advanced Studies.

US Congressman, Brendan F. Boyle said: "Im delighted to be taking part in the upcoming American Conference for Irish Studies 2021 at Ulster University. With the theme of addressing the key concerns of 'Heritage, Healing and Home', I am confident it will be a productive commemoration of all things North West and Irish-American.

"These themes resonate in so many ways with international relations at present and in every corner of the globe. That this event is taking place in the City of Derry, I can think of no place better suited for such an impactful exchange of ideas than in the same city of John Hume and the civil rights he so passionately and proudly fought for."

Professor Malachy O Neill, Irish language scholar and Provost of the Ulster University Magee campus said Ulster University is 'delighted' to host the ACIS 2021 conference and to welcome academics from 110 different institutions across the world to this global conversation.

He added: "This event is the academic highlight of the year-long commemoration of Colm Cille (Saint Columba), patron of the city of Derry and the wider North West and one of the most significant figures in early European Christianity. The overarching conference themes of Heritage, Healing and Home act as a pathway for these times.

"Time for reflection, sense-making and collective restoration and healing is needed more than ever as we emerge from our homes after the challenging period during COVID-19.

The hosting of this post-Brexit forum, some three miles from the UK/EU international frontier, is an opportunity to reflect on aspects of global diversity and equality in the tradition of John Hume. In the weeks after the loss of another of the regions literary giants, Seamus Deanes contribution to the Irish canon will feature alongside new examinations of Heaney, Friel and a great many others.

Professor Mo Hume, Board member of John and Pat Hume Foundation, said her father was 'guided in all his work by these themes and by his rootedness in Derry'.

"To understand John Hume, you need to understand Derry. He recognised the importance of PLACE in not only shaping his identity but also in offering him his formative lessons in politics," she explained.

My parents' good friend Brian Friel once said: for people like ourselves, living close to such a fluid situation, definitions of identity have to be developed and analysed much more frequently. Weve got to keep questioning until we find some kind of portmanteau term or until we find some kind of generosity that can embrace the whole island.

"The breadth and richness of the ACIS programme in relation to cultural, literary, historical discourse and the reflections on Columcille 1500 demonstrate that this questioning remains not only relevant, but necessary.

In the spirit of the theme of Healing, the conference delegates will experience an exclusive documentary screening of Maurice Fitzpatricks John Hume in America documentary, followed by a panel discussion on John Humes life and legacy.

City and region leaders are getting behind the international conference. Sportswear brand ONeills have designed a commemorative jersey featuring a beautiful digital artwork of Magee College by Carla Fulton, artist and recent Ulster University.

Gavin Killeen and colleagues at NuPrint Technologies have produced conference postcards to complement the ONeills jerseys. Also, Visit Derry have worked with Ulster University to bring this multi-faceted event online for the people of Derry.

Conference Highlights: Public Events

While COVID restrictions have prevented delegates travelling to Derry for this ACIS national event, Ulster University  in partnership with the John and Pat Hume Foundation  have sought to bring a sense of Irelands Northwest into the homes of participants in this multi-national gathering.

The Keynote Address by President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins will be broadcast on Thursday 4 June 2021 at 5pm  5:45pm.

Drawing inspiration from his recently published book, Reclaiming the European Street, the President of Ireland will be speaking on the topics of home, land, heritage and healing, with reference to the regions patron saint Colmcille.

The Congressional Address by Congressman, Brendan Boyle, the Ambassadorial Addresses by Ambassador Dame Karen Pierce and Ambassador Dan Mulhall, the key-note plenary panels will all broadcast online as will a special documentary showcasing SLI CHOLMCILLE: The Columban Heritage Trail, produced by Lionra Leitir Ceanainn.

Students from the Music programme at the School of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences at Magee, will feature in a special traditional and choral music showcase on Thursday 3 June 2021.



Fireside Conversations

A programme of evening talks (to accommodate the American viewers also) in the form of Fireside Conversations are open for free to the public. These include:

Thursday 3 June 2021 at 9:15pm: Healing: Susan McKay, author of just published Northern Protestants - On Shifting Ground, in conversation with The John & Pat Hume Foundation patrons, Sara Canning and Dawn Purvis. Followed by an Ulster University Choral Celebration & Traditional Music Showcase featuring Ulster University students.

Friday 4 June 2021 at 9:15pm: Heritage: Adomnan, Adhamhnan, Eunan: Life and afterlife of a Donegal Saint by Dr Brian Lacey, with Professor Nollaig O Muraile and Professor Mairin Ni Dhonnchadha, Chaired by Professor Regina Ui Chollatain.

Saturday 4 June at 9:15pm: Home: Dr Liam Campbell, Author of the recently published, Room for the River: The Foyle River Catchment Landscape, with Paul Mullan, Bernadette McAliskey and Linda Ervine. Chaired by Joe Mahon

All public events will be live streamed at a ACIS 2021 You Tube Channel: ACIS 2021 - YouTube

Full programme available here: www.acis2021.com
A message of support has been sent from Derry to the thousands of people affected by the Mica scandal in Donegal.

Many homeowners in Donegal have been told that their properties must be demolished because of the material in blocks used in their construction.

The homeowners have been campaigning for compensation and have called on the Irish government to step in and provide redress for those impacted by the situation.

Around 10,000 people attended a Mica protest in Buncrana last Saturday.

A message of support for the Mica campaigners has been put on the famous Free Derry Corner wall in Derry.
Derry charity worker Micky Doherty has been recognised for all his efforts during the coronavirus pandemic.

The popular entertainer has been at the forefront of local efforts in helping vulnerable people during the crisis.

Micky was invited to the Guildhall this week by Mayor Brian Tierney where he was presented with a special gift to recognise his work during the pandemic.

It is the latest award for the local man.

Micky also recently won a Spirit of Northern Ireland Award which recognised people who have helped other people during the last year.

Micky said he was in 'total shock' to find out about the award, but said he would be accepting it 'for the people of Derry'.

In an interview with the Derry News last year, Micky spoke emotionally about the impact that the coronavirus crisis has had on him.

"When people started asking me for help I felt so emotional. It was so sad," he said.

"It was often at night when people had maybe had a drink and it gave them the courage to get in touch.

"They were so embarrassed to ask for help but I said 'look, this is between me and you'.

"They put their trust in me. No one ever needs to know who got help. I will take that to my grave.

"I swore to them over my mother and father's grave that I would never speak about giving them the money.

"People from all over Derry got help; from Donemana, from Eglinton. Nobody went without."
Detectives from PSNI Legacy Investigation Branch, investigating the murder of police officer Michael Ferguson in Derry in January 1993, have today arrested a man in the city as part of their ongoing enquiries into the killing.

The 51-year-old man has been arrested under the Terrorism Act and taken to the Serious Crime Suite at Musgrave Police Station for questioning.

Constable Ferguson, from Omagh, was shot twice, at close range, in the back of the head by an IRA gunman in Shipquay Street on January 23, 1993.

The 21-year-old Catholic policeman was on duty at the time and was taken to Altnagevlin Hospital but died from his injuries.

One man was jailed in 2015 in connection with the murder.

A number of men have also been recently arrested and questioned in connection with Constable Ferguson's killing.
There have been renewed calls for an addiction centre to be set up in Derry after it emerged a district electoral area (DEA) in the city has the highest rate for alcohol-related admissions to hospital in the North.

New figures also show that the Derry and Strabane District Council area has the second highest rate of alcohol admissions across the North, with the city's Moor DEA having the highest.

The Moor takes in the Bogside, Brandywell, Creggan, Fountain and surrounding districts, including the Foyle Road area, Killea and Sheriffs Mountain.

The figures also show Derry and Strabane council region has the second highest rate in the North for alcohol-related deaths.

Derry and Strabane has the highest rate in terms of drug misuse (23%), while the Western Trust area has the highest rate (29%), double the rate of Belfast Trust.

The figures were revealed by SDLP Councillor Rory Farrell at a meeting of the local council.

Cllr Farrell said: "These startling statistics add further weight to our argument for enhanced addiction services in Derry.

The New Decade, New Approach deal, which saw the restoration of Stormont in January 2020, included a British Government commitment to fund an addiction centre in Derry.

"The Secretary of State, Brandon Lewis, must deliver on this commitment and make funding available immediately."

Sinn Fein MLA Karen Mullan, her party's health spokesperson at the Assembly, has called on Health Minister, Robin Swann, to make funding available for crisis intervention and addiction services in the North West.

Local, accessible and effective crisis services are an essential part of a mental health service which supports people in really difficult circumstances in our communities.

Rather than reducing access to crisis services, access should be increased to meet the clear demand.

I have continually raised this with Minister Swann and the need for the implementation of the New Decade, New Approach commitment to deliver detox and addiction services in this area.

Independent councillor for The Moor, Gary Donnelly, said the statistics 'come as no surprise' to the people of the areas which, he said, was 'in essence, a working class area'.

He added: The Moor Ward tops all the wrong polls. An area of high deprivation it has been neglected by the powers-that-be.

There is a clear connection between addiction and areas that are disadvantaged.

It has been said that addiction doesnt dis- criminate, it is an equal opportunity destroyer but recovery rates are lower when there is a lack of opportunities.

Unemployment, un- stable employment, educa- tional under attainment and lack of hope all add to high levels of addiction rates and slower/lower recovery rates. Discrimination and social development factors have hindered the recovery process.

Cllr Donnelly said the fact drug addiction was treated in the main as a criminal problem and alcohol addiction was seen as a social problem, only added to the problem not being addressed.

What isnt mentioned here is other addictions like gambling which is causing huge devastation in working class areas and is pouring petrol on the proverbial fire, he said.

As long as we have a system of government, either here or in Westminster, and local politicians who refuse to admit that the system is not designed to deal with these and other issues effecting working class areas like the Moor Ward, then we will continue to suffer from inequality and discrim- ination and everything that goes with it.

In the 2011 census, The Moor had a population of around 17,500 people, making it one of the smaller wards across the Derry City and Strabane District Council area.

It is also one of the smallest in terms of geographical area.

In 2011, one in five adults in the region reported having a health or disability that seriously limited their ability to carry out everyday tasks, with a further 10 per cent saying their condition while having an impact was less severe.

A total of 71 per cent said their health was either good or very good.

The Moor also had a higher than average number of residents with no education qualifications at around 43 per cent compared to the council average of 35 per cent.

The results of the recent census are due to be published later in the year.
Derry City and Strabane District Council today agreed to provide 'emergency funding' to ensure a suicide prevention service in the city can continue in the short-term.

The Community Crisis Intervention Service (CCIS), which is operated from a base at Bishop Street, is due to close on June 15 when its latest funding runs out.

A rally is taking place in Guildhall Square on Saturday at 2pm in support of securing permanent funding for the local service.

At today's monthly meeting of the council, Independent councillor Gary Donnelly put forward a motion highlighting the 'grave concern' at the possible closure of CCIS due to the 'lack of resolution for long-term funding'.

Cllr Donnelly's motion also stated that the council should put in place 'emergency funding and measures' to keep the service going for a 'minimum' of three months to 'enable long-term funding to be secured'.

People Before Profit councillor Maeve O'Neill put forward an amendment to the motion which stated that the council support Saturday's socially-distanced rally.

The motion and its amendment were supported unanimously by councillors at the meeting.

Several councillors described CCIS as a 'lifeline' for so many people.

An online petition has been launched in support of securing the future of the service.

To sign the petition, go to http://chng.it/GH5YWqdFWs
I have spent the last year-plus saying Stay safe, stay home, Lamont said. And today, Im telling you: get out of the damn house, come enjoy Hartford, get on a plane, visit a restaurant, go to an amazing hotel. This is a time where Connecticut is open, ready for business, we want you coming back.
Salman Khan's Defamation Case Against Kamaal R Khan Not About His Radhe Review; Here's Why The Star Is Suing Him

Kamaal R. Khan has once again found himself in the middle of a controversy and this time for messing with Salman Khan. The actor and influencer had in his tweets on Wednesday claimed that he has been slapped with a defamation notice from Salman for his review of the stars recently released film Radhe. KRK went so far as to plead with Salmans father Salim Khan on social media to ask the actor not to proceed with the case.

Salman Khans team, however, revealed in a statement that his reasons for suing KRK actually have nothing to do with his Radhe review. While KRK says he will not review any of Salmans films anymore, the Radhe stars team claims that the defamation notice is to do with many of Kamaals slanderous tweets against the superstar.

According to the statement - "Kamaal R Khan has put out a series of tweets and videos alleging that Salman Khan has sued him for defamation because he reviewed the film, Radhe. This is incorrect. The suit has been filed as the defendant has been publishing and endorsing defamatory allegations, including that Salman Khan is corrupt, that he and his brand "Being Human" are involved in fraud, manipulation and money laundering transactions, that he and Salman Khan Films are dacoits. The Defendant has been spreading malicious falsehoods and defaming Salman Khan consistently over several months, clearly with a view to draw attention to himself."

The matter has now gone to court and according to Salmans team of lawyers, Kamaal s lawyer has said that he will now post anymore defamatory tweets against the actor till the next hearing.
Ram Setu: South Actors Satyadev, Nassar Roped In For The Akshay Kumar Starrer; Makers Target Diwali 2022 Release

Soon after Bollywoods Khiladi Akshay Kumar began shooting for his action adventure film Ram Setu, he contracted coronavirus. The actor was hospitalized and the shoot came to an abrupt halt. Recently it was reported that Akshay has now recovered and the team will resume shoot in June in Mumbai. While Akshay is playing the role of an archaeologist, the film features Nushrratt Bharuccha as his on-screen wife and will see Jacqueline Fernandez as his team member. According to latest buzz, two South stars have now been roped in.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nushrratt Bharuccha (@nushrrattbharuccha)

A report shared by Pinkvilla revealed that actors Satyadev and Nassar have now come on-board. A source was quoted saying, Ram Setu is among the most ambitious films of Akshay Kumar and the team is going all out to ensure an able cast on board the film. The two south names have signed on to play key roles in Ram Setu, and will start shooting with Akshay soon. While the details of their character have been kept under wraps, but its said to be a well meaty and well sketched role.

The team is expected to travel to Sri Lanka post shooting in Mumbai. The source further shared, After wrapping up the shoot, even the post-production will take time as the story demands use of visual effects. The makers are targeting a Diwali 2022 opening. Sadly, it is still not clear when shooting will be allowed again by the Maharashtra government amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Honor is expected to stage its grand global comeback with the Honor 50 series phones in the coming weeks. The series will reportedly include three phones, namely the Honor 50, Honor 50 Pro, and Honor 50 Pro+. Of the trio, the flagship Honor 50 Pro+ will reportedly support 100W fast charging. Now an image of its 100W charging adaptor has allegedly surfaced online.

The adaptor, as shown above, is not a USB-C to USB-C Power Delivery charger. So it is possible that 'Honor SuperCharge' is likely a proprietary solution that splits the battery into two halves - just as many high wattage proprietary solutions do.

A reliable leakster from China claims that the 100W charger wont have to be purchased separately, and will be bundled in the box. The other two lower models will instead get 66W fast charging.

100W chargers still arent as wide-spread in use, but they are slowly gaining ground. 120W charging has already debuted on phones like Mi 10 Ultra and iQOO 7 in China, but we are yet to see 100W+ charging phones in India.

The Honor 50 and Honor 50 Pro will be powered by the recently launched Snapdragon 778G octa-core chipset, while the Honor 50 Pro+ is likely to get the top-of-the-line Snapdragon 888. The most interesting bit is that these will be the first set of Honor phones after US-imposed sanctions to debut with Google Apps pre-installed.

Huaweis smartphone division took quite a hit after it was placed on Export Entity List by the U.S. government. To make up for the losses, the company sold its Honor sub-brand to a consortium of agents and deals. As an independent brand, Honor has managed to regain license for Google Mobile Services. It has also renewed its ties with other key U.S. companies like Qualcomm, Intel, Microsoft, and AMD.
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NEW YORK (AP)  Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has picked a date to step down as CEO.

Bezos, who grew Amazon from an internet bookstore to an online shopping behemoth, said Wednesday that Amazon executive Andy Jassy will take over the CEO role on July 5.





. . .
Preparing for Bellevues dynamic future

Over the course of the last year, outdoor areas have played an integral role in preserving our mental and physical health.



By GERALYN VANNOY

Vulcan Real Estate

Vannoy

Throughout its history, from settlement in the late 19th century to incorporation in 1953, and into the 21st century, Bellevue has blossomed as a true gem of a city here in the Pacific Northwest. In the early 1900s, approximately 50 years after it was first settled, the area was logged off and made suitable for growing fruits and vegetables and began attracting hundreds of settlers each year.

Since it was incorporated, Bellevues annual population growth has averaged 5%, and in recent years the area has cultivated a growing identity as an up-and-coming technology and corporate hub. Bellevue is the fifth largest city in Washington behind Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma and Vancouver. In 2016, Vulcan Real Estate began adding properties in this dynamic city to our portfolio of assets. We now own 7.5 acres of land in the Bellevue CBD where we are developing 2 million square feet of office along with 64,000 square feet of retail space; we are also in predevelopment for 360 residential units.

Last fall, Amazon announced that it would expand its Eastside footprint in several new office buildings including Bellevue 600 and Vulcan Real Estates developments at 555 Tower and West Main, both of which broke ground about a year ago with delivery scheduled for early 2023.

Photo from Vulcan Real Estate [enlarge] West Main is a three-building, half-block development that enhances the adjacent streetscapes and promotes a pedestrian-friendly environment through open space amenities and retail uses.





Vulcan Real Estates goal is to create industry-leading places that generate lasting value for generations. Our community-focused development aims to enhance the pedestrian experience through ground level activation. Our team works with the city and other stakeholders to develop a vibrant program that incorporates public art, seating areas, landscaping and retail into a cohesive program designed to meet the needs of the neighborhood.

Over the course of the last year, outdoor areas have played an integral role in preserving our mental and physical health, allowing us to stay active and connected with one another. Public gathering spaces will continue to attract people and our goal is to create spaces that provide unique experiences for all to enjoy. Our plans for Bellevue will create inviting spaces for office workers, residents and visitors to convene that will ultimately reactivate the citys sidewalks and existing retail scene.

Pedestrian-friendly spaces at 555 Tower include a transition between the office and the Grand Connection, a walkway linking Meydenbauer Bay Park and the Civic Center District. The design features a 22,000-square-foot, two-story retail pavilion surrounded by a paved sidewalk and plaza. Lush landscaping, outdoor seating and public art will further activate this area.

West Mains expansive property will include three dynamically designed towers with office and retail uses. Retail will occupy the buildings ground floor along Main Street and 106th Avenue Northeast, including a 17,000-square-foot retail space fronting Main Street. The project design includes a 20,000-square-foot plaza that will enhance east-west connections through the large 4-acre site and encourage pedestrians to linger, take in the greenery and admire the artistic treatment of the core walls: thousands of colored stainless steel panels will extend from the ground level all the way to the roof, in red, blue and aqua hues, reminiscent of water shimmering in the light.

Both 555 Tower and West Main will expand upon Vulcan Real Estates extensive commissioning of public art. Since our inception, 0.5% of each construction budget is voluntarily dedicated to the curation and creation of public art that captures the communitys identity and collective values at each project. While artists contributing to our Bellevue projects have yet to be named, we are excited to be planning the future art installations for each project.

In recent years, Bellevue has taken action to create a friendlier downtown environment for pedestrians. A multiple-year Downtown Livability Initiative was instituted in 2017 which involved the update of land use codes to enhance the pedestrian environment, improve the area as a residential setting and boost the identity and character of downtown urban villages. We have aligned our current development plans with the vision our leaders have for the city.

Making the downtown area accessible to locals and visitors alike, and creating pathways to explore the citys urban landscape, is one of our ways of giving back to the community. The city and previous developers have done a tremendous job bringing retail services, storefronts and restaurants to the area. We plan to build on that foundation by curating a compelling combination of unique restaurants, cafes, general retail and services to support and complement the office landscape while also serving residents and becoming a destination in their own right to attract visitors from neighboring areas.

Bellevues downtown is sure to benefit from the soon-to-be completed light rail station, which will have a transformational impact on accessibility between downtown Seattle and the Eastside. Its opening in 2023 further necessitates the need for publicly accessible urban spaces and reduces the need for a car to navigate the city. Tech companies are also contributing to this shift, changing the areas demographics by bringing more, mostly younger, talent to the area. The resulting housing constraints are creating opportunities for developers to build new housing quickly to address the expanding populations needs.

Bellevue continues to maintain its position as a dynamic urban environment thanks to the support of the citys commitment to infrastructure and the influence of our many technology companies. To sustain growth in a way that is responsible, inspiring and promotes productivity, we must also think about how the built environment facilitates community-building. As our Bellevue projects advance through design and construction, we plan to listen to a broad range of constituents  our tenants, local business-owners, city residents and more  to create an all-encompassing, symbiotic outdoor environment and retail program for all to enjoy.

Geralyn Vannoy executes the commercial leasing strategy for Vulcan Real Estates investment portfolio and serves as asset manager for select Vulcan properties.





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Coming soon: A surge of TODs in the Bel-Red corridor

Demand is up, but so are challenges facing developers in todays market.



By SCOTT SURDYKE

Special to the Journal

Image from city of Redmond [enlarge] Seritage/Mack Real Estate is developing a project at the old Sears site in the Bel-Red corridor that will include 442 apartments and 28,000 square feet of retail.





Amazons announcement last year that it will bring 25,000 employees to downtown Bellevue by 2025 has set into motion a period of unprecedented growth on the Eastside. With plans to occupy up to 6 million square feet of office space, Amazons Bellevue campus will help solidify the citys growing reputation as one of the nations most desirable places to live and work.

Bellevue has already garnered the attention of the tech world with its highly educated and diverse workforce, with over 69% of the adult population holding at least a bachelors degree. In addition, with almost 40% of the population coming from outside the U.S., the city continues to grow as a diverse hub for international tech workers. In the next 10 years alone, Bellevue is expected to experience a staggering 35% to 40% job growth rate.

EAST LINK

East Link, Sound Transits new 17.7-mile, multi-billion-dollar light rail expansion, is set to open in 2023-24. The new line, running from Seattles International District Station to Mercer Island, Bellevue and Redmond, will also connect the Eastsides two largest employers, Amazon (downtown Bellevue Station) and Microsoft (Overlake/Redmond Tech stations), as well as Overlake Hospital and Facebooks new campus in the Spring District. With trains expected to run every 6 minutes during peak times, people will be able to travel from downtown Redmond to downtown Bellevue in 10 minutes. Sound Transit estimates that East Link will generate 43,000 to 52,000 daily riders by 2026. In all, 10 new stations are planned, three of which will be in the Bel-Red Corridor.

Its no secret that traffic is a major issue on the Eastside, especially on I-405 in and around Bellevue and Redmond, says Kim Faust, senior vice president for MainStreet Property Group, which is developing several projects near East Link stations. The beauty of light rail is that, with predictable, dependable and frequent transit, people may finally be able to leave their cars to get to and from the Eastsides major employment centers. This will help transform the area around the stations into highly desirable new neighborhoods, as evidenced by the development thats already underway.

In the past five years, over $6 billion worth of TODs have been completed or announced at or near the planned light rail stations, and another $6 billion to $10 billion worth of TODs could be developed by the end of the decade.

Image from Encore Architects [enlarge] Legacy Partners new Bellevue Station project, which will be adjacent to the new 130th/Bel-Red station.





FLURRY OF ACTIVITY

Stretching from downtown Bellevue to the Microsoft Campus, the Bel-Red Corridor has historically been home to low-rise industry and sprawling retail strips. In 2009, in anticipation of the East Link, Bellevue and Redmond embarked on a major rezone and planning process, paving the way for the redevelopment of this 900-acre neighborhood. With mixed-use zoning allowing for buildings up to 150 feet in height and up to 10,000 new jobs anticipated by 2030, the development capacity of the Bel-Red Corridor will eventually rival that of South Lake Union.

The neighborhood has already seen the development of two major TODs: Esterra Park (Capstone Partners) and the Spring District (Wright Runstad). Together these projects comprise over 66 acres of developable land, with anticipated costs of over $3.6 billion at full buildout. The new master-planned communities will include over 2,600 units of multifamily housing, 3.5 million square feet of office space and over 450 hotel rooms.

MULTIPLE CHALLENGES

Though the Bel-Red Corridor is indeed white hot, as are other sites along the new East Link, there are a number of factors that are adversely impacting project feasibility. Land costs have been soaring, with many sites now exceeding $80,000 a unit and $240 per square foot. At the same time, construction costs have been increasing at an unprecedented rate, with overall projects costs up over 50% in the past four years alone. Its no coincidence that in 2019 our region was declared the 10th most expensive market in the world to build in.

Legacy Partners is developing one of the first new TODs near the Bel-Red/130th St. station. The project will include 292 units and 10,000 square feet of retail.

The challenge is that costs have risen significantly while effective rents have fallen this past year due to the pandemics impact, coupled with new completions, said Parker Nicholson, senior development manager with Legacy Partners. The tide is turning however, as employees consider returning to the office. Concessions are evaporating and absorption is spiking even before Amazons job surge begins. We believe the Eastside multifamily presents the strongest commercial real estate investment opportunity in the country right now.

Image from Baylis Architects [enlarge] Holland Partner Group's nine-story project on Northup Way, just three blocks from the new 130th/Bel-Red station, will have 402 apartments and 6,500 square feet of retail.





Photo from MainStreet Property Group [enlarge] Porch + Park, a 106-unit mid-rise TOD developed by MainStreet Property Group, is near East Links Redmond Station.





Municipal fees and other permit-related requirements have also increased. Permit fees are substantially higher on the Eastside (Bellevue and Redmond) than in Seattle, due to a number of factors.

As part of a team that recently did a deep dive into a hypothetical 290-unit project in the Bel-Red Corridor, we identified a number of municipal fees, requirements and other miscellaneous costs that impacted our projects overall returns. Located just two blocks from the Bel-Red station, our project included 10,000 square feet of retail and 264 parking spaces. Our findings included:

 FAR fees: $2.3 million fees to go from a Base FAR of 1.0 to a Max FAR of 2.0.

 Permit fees: Over $1.2 million, including over $720,000 in traffic impact/mitigation fees.

 Land costs: The parcel we were looking at was not on the market, but the owner was offered over $280/square foot by a prospective buyer.

 Infrastructure/street improvements: Development in the Bel-Red Corridor is required to provide substantial streetscape improvements.

 IBC Code: Washingtons newly adopted IBC code resulted in an increase in energy and structural costs by approximately $15,000 to $20,000/unit.

Other requirements developers have encountered include Bellevues plan to create a new walkable street grid throughout the neighborhood. In some cases, newly planned east-west streets bisect large sites, posing a challenge for larger projects. In many instances developers are now being required to dedicate and build out a portion of their property for partially complete new streets.

In addition, buildings are restricted to a maximum of 75% impermeable lot coverage, which means that building footprints are smaller, and the large remaining portion must be landscaped or have another permeable surface material.

Though these requirements can add both cost and delays to new projects, the intent from the city of Bellevue is to encourage the development of truly walkable and attractive new urban neighborhoods.

The transformation from a light industrial environment, where land parcels are large and irregular, is a major challenge, said Tom Parsons, executive managing director for Holland Partner Group. The infrastructure needed to create a connected street grid and pedestrian friendly environment is substantial. As the area rapidly transitions to a transit-centric neighborhood, these improvements are very important. The benefits of the densification of this corridor are huge for Bellevue and the close-in Eastside, because the spine of that system through Bel-Red will support thousands of housing units and millions of square feet of office space.

SUBSTANTIAL OPPORTUNITY

The immediate neighborhood around the Bel-Red/130th St. station has yet to see the level of development at other stations in the corridor (Spring District and Overlake). High land costs, coupled with the above-mentioned challenges and rising construction costs, may indeed be restraining the pace of growth in this neighborhood. However, with soaring employment growth and subsequent demand for housing, the station will likely experience substantial change over the next three to five years. In addition to Legacys Bellevue Station, there are major new projects in the neighborhood being developed by Holland Partners, SummerHill and Seritage/Mack Real Estate.

Given the rising costs and increased municipal requirements, its no surprise that new projects today are struggling to make the traditional returns expected by many investors. Yields that typically ranged from 5.5% to 5.8% are now much closer to 5% to 5.1%. While these returns may not be favorable for traditional investors or lenders, the reality is that the Eastside is still an amazingly strong, resilient and attractive market for new multifamily development.

Undoubtedly the Eastside has entered a period of explosive growth, and the upcoming East Link has helped to promote the surge in TODs. Ultimately, the development activity anticipated in the next few years will ensure that this once sprawling suburban industrial/retail corridor will soon become a series of well-connected, vibrant and thriving urban neighborhoods.

Scott Surdyke is a development manager and consultant, specializing in urban mid-rise and high-rise multifamily and mixed-use projects.









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Rendering by Studio 216 [enlarge] Facebooks Block 24 is in the foreground, with its Block 16 north across the street. This view looks northwest along 124th Avenue Northeast.





Already leased to Facebook, Block 24 in East Bellevue's Spring District is nearing completion on its interiors and not yet occupied. Yet developer Wright Runstad and partners have already sold it, empty, to a fund associated with Brookfield Asset Management. The company announced the $200 million deal yesterday; King County hadn't yet recorded the sale before deadline Wednesday.





. . .
The many shades of green

Building electrification and climate risk mitigation go mainstream.



By RIC COCHRANE

McKinstry

Cochrane

Mandatory building energy performance is now Washington state law, and many building owners may be surprised by the stringency of compliance requirements. Perhaps most surprising to many in the real estate industry, however, is that Washingtons first-in-the-nation law is really not so innovative when compared with changes driven by the private sector. Specifically, global capital markets are now factoring climate-change risk mitigation into investment criteria, affecting every phase of the building lifecycle and every aspect of the building industry.

LEADING THE WAY

The Washington Clean Buildings Act (CBA) was signed into law during the 2019 legislative session, establishing mandatory energy performance targets for all non-residential buildings larger than 50,000 square feet. HB 1257 authorizes the Department of Commerce to develop energy use intensity (EUI) targets set at 15% less than the Washington state average for each building use type (mixed-use buildings are required to provide aggregated EUI).

Photo from McKinstry [enlarge] The Catalyst building and the Scott Morris Center for Energy Innovation are the first two buildings at South Landing in Spokane. This all-electric project is a resilient and future-ready model for low-carbon or zero-carbon development.





Building owners will be required to demonstrate compliance starting in 2026 by verifying energy performance and presenting a comprehensive Energy Management Plan and Operations & Maintenance Plan. Penalties for noncompliance include $1 per square foot fines assessed annually  potentially, hundreds of thousands of dollars for some buildings if all compliance requirements are not met. This is the most aggressive state legislation focused on energy efficiency in the country.

Locally, the Seattle City Council last year adopted code requirements that restrict natural gas use in new multifamily and commercial buildings, a move that will require much of the citys future construction to convert heating systems to electric power. The electrification requirements extend to alterations and replacements of existing commercial buildings  any upgrade or replacement that triggers Seattle Energy Code compliance will require phasing out of fossil-fuel based equipment.

Most recently, the Legislature passed Senate Bill 5126, the Climate Commitment Act, which is headed to Gov. Inslees desk to be signed into law. This legislation will create a cap-and-invest program  through a binding limit across all major sectors of the economy  to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the largest emitters in the state. It will also invest in programs and projects that reduce emissions, expand clean transportation, improve climate resiliency and reduce air pollution.

For the real estate sector, the writing is no longer on the wall, its in the law  building energy performance is now capped and requires verification, and fossil fuel consumption will be dramatically curtailed.

ACT LOCALLY

The intent of the CBA is to lower costs and pollution from fossil fuel consumption in the states existing building stock, especially large commercial buildings. Buildings account for 27% of Washingtons greenhouse-gas emissions. They are the fastest growing and second largest source of emissions  up 50% since 1990  and commercial buildings make up approximately half of these emissions.

Opponents of the legislation  and even many who support reductions in greenhouse gas emissions  express concern that the CBA is an unfunded mandate that, like energy codes and other constraints, will reduce affordability and add to the financial burdens of real estate developers, owners and managers.

However, opponents overlook the trends shaping global real estate and financial markets  namely, the fact that climate change is a determining factor in global capital allocations, which directly affects how money flows to all asset classes including real estate. This position focuses less on mitigating climate change as an environmental imperative and more on the financial risks and rewards of both preparing for instability brought on by climate change and being part of the mitigation solution.

At first glance, the drivers of this change may appear to be based in sustainability initiatives, most evident in the race by large technology companies to reach zero-carbon or carbon neutrality within aggressive timelines. Increasingly, capital markets and firms in every industry are adopting ESG (environmental, social and corporate governance) criteria or strategies to guide investments. ESG refers to the three factors used to measure the sustainability and societal impacts of an investment, with focus on the ability of a company to create value over the long-term.

However, an equal if not greater force affecting investments is the very real threat of risk and financial instability caused by climate change. Companies that do not have a plan to adapt to instability or to be part of climate change mitigation are now considered higher risk than those that have plans and are taking steps toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions  that is, reducing instability and therefore risk.

If you follow the money, the global bets are being placed on business activities that reduce fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions reductions. The Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures, chaired by Michael Bloomberg, issued a 2017 report that emphasized the importance of transparency in pricing risk  including risk related to climate change  to support informed, efficient capital-allocation decisions.

By 2020, support for the TFCF recommendations grew to 1,500 organizations globally, including more than 1,340 companies with a market capitalization of $12.6 trillion and financial institutions responsible for assets of $150 trillion. In fact, a $9 billion real estate portfolio was recently turned away by a large European pension fund because it did not have a climate-change mitigation plan (or a building decarbonization plan) in place.

Globally, the money is flowing to assets and investments that are taking action to address climate change.

FOCUS ON OPPORTUNITY

Closer to home, the global shift in capital aligns well with local regulatory mandates to present opportunities for the real estate sector. The short-term inconveniences of mandated changes in building performance and energy sources are small compared to the financial benefits of transition. And the upshot for the real estate industry is twofold.

First, as penalties for carbon and greenhouse gas emissions increase, capital will flow toward stable, lower risk assets. Buildings that burn fossil fuels are already being considered higher risk assets, and as with fossil fuel-based power generation systems, buildings and portfolios without plans to convert to electricity are being categorized as future stranded assets.

Second, electrification of the built environment is an opportunity for building owners to capture new value streams through participation in an intelligent energy system. Although the CBA is ostensibly an energy efficiency mandate, the state has made no secret of the intent to shift from EUI to greenhouse gas metrics. The outdated power grid  think centralized generation and inefficient distribution  is transitioning (however slowly) to a more intelligent, efficient, distributed system that includes local generation and storage. All-electric buildings can participate in a new transactive energy system. Enhanced power stability, reliability, and resilience are the financial realities of a decarbonized built environment. In many ways, the actions of state and local leaders to reduce climate impacts from the built environment presents a competitive advantage for building owners.

The building sector is slow to change, but developers and owners that invest in decarbonization will immediately be better positioned to attract capital and reap the benefits of reduced insurance premiums, long-term asset value, and competitive market advantage. Washington state is once again a national leader in environmental policy, and the real estate industry should embrace change for what it is: future-proofing the built environment to make our regional economy stable and resilient for the long term.

Ric Cochrane is McKinstrys Clean Buildings Act specialist.





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Democrats have accused Caggiano and the citys GOP leadership of cooking up a non-issue and then spreading misinformation about it. But Caggiano insisted that his party is just trying to protect the will of the people.
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Social services director sees importance of mental health services during pandemic

Adam Robison | BUY AT PHOTOS.DJOURNAL.COM Nakimia Agnew is director of North Mississippi Primary Health Care's behavioral health services, as position she's held for just a short time, although she's no stranger to the world of mental health. With the pandemic in its waning days, she suspects more and more people will begin to realize they need to speak with someone about all they've seen and experienced over the past year. Human Impact Logo

Editors Note: The Human Impact is an ongoing series about marginalized people in our communities and the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 upon them.

NEW ALBANY  Nakimia Agnew was still shaping the relatively new behavioral health program for North Mississippi Primary Health Care (NMPHC) when COVID-19 changed the way her work looked on a day to day basis.

As a licensed social worker, Agnew specializes in mindfulness. She counsels clients of all ages through trauma and grief, and as her clients experienced increased social isolation, anxiety and uncertainty brought on by the pandemic, she witnessed a collective trauma response that showed her just how needed mental health care is.

COVID provided the perfect storm for people with mental illness because it took away their community, for a lot of them, and we know that community is a big support, Agnew said. This is something the world has never seen before, weve never seen before, so people just didnt have the skills to deal with it.

A pandemic and the stigma of mental health

Originally from Baldwyn, Agnew has been a licensed social worker since 2007. She's been the director of social services at New Albany Health Care Associates for two years, and within her role, she provides mental health services, psychotherapy and clinical case management across the North Mississippi Primary Health Care, Inc coverage area, including New Albany, Oxford, Ripley, Ashland, Walnut, Corinth, Booneville, Tishomingo.

Agnew was tasked with starting NMPHC's behavioral health program thanks to previous experience starting programs and providing psychotherapy.

It was just a good opportunity because were in rural Mississippi,' she said. "There are not a lot of mental health care services available in the area, and so we just provide the opportunity for more people to receive more services. Were trying to break the stigma of mental health and mental health care and encouraging people if theres a problem or if they have an issue, its OK to seek out mental health services.

When the pandemic began, Agnew had huge concerns about an increase in anxiety, domestic violence and social isolation. Her younger patients came back from spring break to a new world. Schools moving to virtual learning took away a lot of coping skills for children. For some kids, school is a time to socialize or escape from bad home environments, so missing school was a very traumatic time for kids." Many, such as seniors, had to deal with missing big moments.

Thats a big milestone for them, and it changed," Agnew said. "They graduated, but they didnt get to walk the stage, they didnt get to have those last days with their peers, which caused some depression for some of them and some anxiety for some of them (about) what is life going to look like for me from now on?

She saw similar worries play out among her adult clients. For clients who deal with depression and social anxiety, having to quarantine made it easy to revert to unhealthy habits where they did not want to be around people. Some people didnt feel safe outside, while other clients feared losing their jobs.

Agnew saw a rise in suicide because people didnt have the skills to deal with the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, and clients who once saw their therapist weekly now struggled to manage their mental health on top of seeing COVID-19 dominate the news every day.

Collective trauma and teletherapy

As a mental health care professional, she also recognized collective trauma. The toilet paper shortage was one example; the scarcity driven by people buying in bulk increased anxiety. However, Agnew also recognized hoarding toilet paper and products as trauma responses.

COVID was a traumatic situation for everybody, and when people are suffering from trauma and a traumatic situation, then they do whatever they can to try to find some type of control," Agnew said. "To be able to have a closet full of toilet paper was some form of control for some people."

Her goal was to help her clients know and understand community trauma so they could find the skills needed to deal with their anxiety in healthier ways. Offering mental health care during the pandemic was a big adjustment. Before, she met with clients face-to-face for interviews, but she moved to virtual sessions during the pandemic.

NMPHC already had a telehealth program where they contract with University Medical to provide psychiatric services and potentially get care to people who lacked the funds for or access to in person care, but telehealth was still new for Agnew.

We are so used to being hands on and just being in the room with somebody, Agnew said. We had to find, create ways to provide that same level of care for patients over the screen. We wanted them to feel like we were in the room together.

Quote Sometimes you dont know it has affected you until you kind of step into something different. I definitely can see where theres probably going to be a need for children being back in school, people entering back into the workforce, even going to the mall or going out is going to be different now because its something that we feared before and now thats becoming normal to us again ... People are going to need support in doing it. Nakimia Agnew North Mississippi Primary Health Care

At times, it was challenging to connect via a screen. Some clients werent as open when talking virtually, and Agnew had to emphasize the importance of sharing their full symptoms. She helped patients learn the importance of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and maintaining confidentiality.

Each session, Agnew would asked her client if they were in a safe place to talk, and shed assure clients that she was in the room alone and that sessions werent recorded as a way to encourage them to open up. Even now that she sees some clients in person, masks make reading compassion and body language difficult.

Ive had clients even say, Ive seen you for almost a year, and I have no idea what you look like, Agnew said. Its been an adjustment for us as clinicians, patients.

However, teletherapy also opened doors for some who wouldnt otherwise make it to the clinic. She learned to be creative and effective with on-screen activities. One example was making adjustments to how to perform deep breathing exercises under the mask. Since some of her clients are rural or older, there were occasionally challenges with reception or technology, so she also did phone calls when teletherapy didnt work.

There were moments when Agnew used the challenges to adapt her methods. When a client had to sit outside during a session for better reception, she used it as an opportunity to do mindfulness outside.

We use that as an opportunity to be able to teach them how to use those skills in their own environment, Agnew said.

'People are going to need support'

While taking care of others, Agnew had to remember to manage her own feelings and emotions to care for others. NMPHC mental health providers checked in on the mental health of their front-line doctors and practitioners.

Quote It's OK that you feel how you feel about what's happened, and there are people out there for you to talk to about it. Its OK for you to need to talk to someone." Nakimia Agnew North Mississippi Primary Health Care

We did things like morning meditations to help them throughout the day," Agnew said. "We had an open door policy, so if somebody was struggling with how they felt about what was going in, then they could come in and talk to one of the therapists. We just made sure that we were taking care of our people who take care of people every day."

Now that vaccinations are available and some of the initial concerns around COVID-19 are receding, shes anticipating a rise in those needing mental health services.

Sometimes you dont know it has affected you until you kind of step into something different, Agnew said. I definitely can see where theres probably going to be a need for children being back in school, people entering back into the workforce, even going to the mall or going out is going to be different now because its something that we feared before and now thats becoming normal to us again ... People are going to need support in doing it.

Those who lost loved ones during COVID-19 didnt get to have a traditional funeral, which can be part of the grieving and healing process. For those who contracted COVID-19, shes also preparing for lingering mental effects. Agnew contracted COVID-19 in October, and while she was blessed to have a very mild case, she knows recovery can be mentally taxing.

Some will have the survivors remorse: I made it through, why didnt my brother or my sister make it through? I was OK and I can return to normal, but they may still be having some effects from it. (Theyll be) dealing with those thoughts, Agnew said.

Even among her current clients, she knows some who are fearful of the vaccine or who are struggling to adjust to loosening restrictions. Agnew chose to be vaccinated in order to feel confident in returning to serving clients in person. As a practitioner, she tries to respect her clients choices on whether to be vaccinated or not and encourages giving people the information to make the best decision for themselves.

Agnews hope for the future is that more resources will come out of this and that people will take advantage of the resources and utilize them. Seeking mental health services doesnt mean somethings wrong, she said; it should be as common and accepted as going to the doctor for a cold.

It's OK that you feel how you feel about what's happened, and there are people out there for you to talk to about it," she said. "Its OK for you to need to talk to someone."
For the last 13 years, people in Louth have been supporting a community in rural North West Kenya called Kongelai, through ActionAids Child Sponsorship programme.

Thanks to this incredible support from those in the Wee County, local ActionAid staff worked with the community to build the skills of local people, especially women and children. The community will now be able to fund their continued development on their own.

Child sponsors from Louth have funded many initiatives that will improve the lives of people in the community for generations. An irrigation programme has meant that during times of drought, hunger is no longer an issue in the area.

The formation of girls and boys forums in school, school feeding programmes and the building of a 100-bed dormitory has helped to improve enrolment rates and keep more children in school.

Rates of FGM in the area have dramatically reduced. The work at a community level has transformed the lives of some of the most marginalised women and children, and they in turn are now wonderful advocates for the next generation.

Siobhan McGee, CEO of ActionAid Ireland said: It is our mission to make sure that in the areas where we work, the solutions we implement with our community partners, are long-term, feasible, appropriate and sustainable for the future. We are incredibly proud of all that has been achieved in Kongelai, Kenya thanks to child sponsors from Louth. We are now working in a new community in Kenya, Nyokal, where we will work with the local community in a similar way.

To learn more about ActionAid and child sponsorship, visit actionaid.ie.
The foster carer for two children of married man Edmundas Dauksa, who stabbed his former partner 19 times in front of their six-year-old daughter, has said it was "unspeakably horrific" for the "little innocent child" to watch her mother being "brutally murdered" by her father.

"The scene has left her sad and afraid, sleepless nights, always questioning why daddy did this to her mammy.

"A child should grow up and have a happy and a loving childhood, surrounded with love and smiles from their parents.

"However, this is not what Ingrida Maciokaite's daughter is experiencing due to the fact of what she last saw of her parents," the full-time foster carer told the Central Criminal Court today, Thursday May 27th.

She added: "Her children, whom she cherished with all her heart, were robbed of their mother. Her son will never remember her but unfortunately for her daughter, such memories will always and forever stay with her."

The testimony was heard as part of a victim impact statement read today, Thursday, to the Central Criminal Court, where 51-year-old Dauksa was sentenced to the mandatory term of life imprisonment for murdering Ms Maciokaite, the mother of his two children, days after their young daughter was placed in her custody by a court.



On May 7, Dauksa, with an address at Castletown Road in Dundalk, Co Louth was convicted by unanimous verdict of murdering Ms Maciokaite (31) at Bridgewater Mews, Linenhall Street, Dundalk, Co Louth on September 18, 2018.

He had pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter.

A victim impact statement was read to the court today by prosecution counsel Conor Devally SC on behalf of the foster carer.

The carer said "the unfortunate death of our beloved Ingrida" had caused their family an enormous amount of heartache and it "was by far the most horrific day" for every member of their family. "Each and every one of us were incredibly heartbroken and in great denial, followed by shock and disbelief," she said.

She said Ms Maciokaite was loved and adored by "every single person" who knew and met her.

"She was a gentle and soft-spoken young woman, who had her whole life ahead of her. Her main priority was to have both of her children by her side and bring the most joy and the happiest memories possible to their childhood," she said.

"She was an insanely hard working, loyal, trusting, yet naive young woman. No matter how many times life kicked her down, she never failed to pick herself back up and keep moving forward. She never gave up on herself, even though since birth, life gave her lemons. Ingrida was a devoted and a selfless mother to her little son and longed for the day when her eldest daughter would be by her side," she said.

"Ingrida's life was no longer to be on the gruesome day as it was taken from her so inhumanely and in the most horrific of ways no one should ever leave this world [sic]. Her children, whom she cherished with all her heart, were robbed of their mother. Her son will never remember her but unfortunately for her daughter such memories will always and forever stay with her," she continued.

"Ingrida will no longer see her children grow up, she will never have the opportunity to attend any school plays, birthdays and there will be no loving family time. It is incredibly heart wrenching to come to terms with losing a loved one," she said.

"Death, it affects everybody differently and in different ways, however for a little innocent child, who was only six years old at the time, to watch her mother being brutally murdered by her father is unspeakably horrific.

"The scene has left her sad and afraid, sleepless nights, always questioning why daddy did this to her mammy. A child should grow up and have a happy and a loving childhood, surrounded with love and smiles from their parents. However, this is not what Ingrida's daughter is experiencing due to the fact of what she last saw of her parents," she said.



"Ingrida's daughter has nightmares and cries very often about what happened to her mammy. I love Ingrida's children like my own and each day I put all my efforts into taking care of them and showing them what a happy childhood must look like. They are in a loving home and are taken care of just like their mother would have wanted them to grow up," she continued.

She said Ms Maciokaite's son will never remember his "beautiful mammy" and "will never have the opportunity to hear her voice when she sings him lullabies. I will always tell both of them that their mammy loved them and that she always wanted what was best for them and their future."

Unfortunately, the foster carer said that they cannot bring Ms Maciokaite back but justice had "been done for her beautiful children".

Following the statement, defence counsel Michael Bowman SC, for Dauksa, said his client wanted to express his remorse and deep regret for the sadness he had caused.

Mr Justice Paul McDermott then sentenced Dauksa to the mandatory term of life imprisonment for murder. The sentence was backdated to September 18 2018, when he went into custody.

Earlier this month, the 12 jurors had rejected Dauksa's defence that he had not been "fuelled with murderous intent" when he carried out the attack on the mother-of-two under a darkened archway during the middle of the day. It was also the defence contention that the accused had felt "wronged and wronged again" by a system which had "failed him appallingly", after the deceased had received custody of the child in an "abnormal and accelerated" District Court hearing days before the killing.

Instead the jury had accepted the State's case that the defendant had intended serious harm or death when he repeatedly "plunged" a 15cm blade into the body of the deceased. In his closing speech, prosecution counsel Conor Devally SC said that whilst it might have been painful and unrelenting for the accused not to get his way to see his daughter, something he had enjoyed for the previous six years, that was no excuse for forming an intention to lure Ms Maciokaite from her home and stab her multiple times.

The trial heard that the accused was a married man but had developed a relationship with Ms Maciokaite, who was relatively younger than him and they had two children together.

An "unusual arrangement" was in place whereby their daughter lived with the accused and his wife and Ms Maciokaite would see the child on occasion.

The young child was very much part of the accused's family "in every sense of the word" and the defendant lavished affection on her "to an enormous extent". However, Ms Maciokaite wanted more access to her daughter and asked her solicitor to have the child produced before the District Court on September 14 2018, where the judge placed her in the custody of her mother.

Evidence was given during the trial that the fishmonger was unrepresented during District Court proceedings that the court heard had lasted for just over four minutes.

The trial also heard he had not received written word of his former partner's intention to bring their daughter to court, despite a court order stating the court was satisfied that the application had been duly served on him.

The Lithuanian national became "a broken man" when his daughter was "taken" from him but an arrangement was made that Ms Maciokaite would bring the child to the accused's house on September 18.

However, the deceased decided not to bring the child to the house, which upset the accused and he went to talk to his former partner in the courtyard of her home that afternoon.



Ms Maciokaite's cause of death was multiple stab wounds to the chest and back with contributory stab wounds to the face and neck. Chief State Pathologist Dr Linda Mulligan testified that there were 10 separate stab wounds to the front of the deceased's body and nine to the rear. The most serious stab wound had been inflicted to the heart and three or four stab wounds had entered the lungs, she said.

Yetunde Awosanya had told the trial that she heard the child screaming outside her window on the afternoon of the killing and said: "The second scream sounded like a dog was about to attack the child, it was like a cry for help".

The witness described comforting the "distraught" child after she picked her up and carried her away from her mother's body.
That June 2018 complaint was not the first one the SEEC had received about Bradley. In April of that year, Bradleys primary opponent, Aaron Turner, filed a complaint with the SEEC that included a thread of text messages purported to be between Bradley and some Stratford Democrats. Bradley appears to pledge to raise money for the Stratford Democrats in exchange for support in 2018 and a position that allows me to have people know my name when you become mayor. (Dont need big money just access to people).
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Methuen - Michael V. Finn, a longtime resident of Lawrence, passed away unexpectedly and peacefully on May 25, 2021, at the age of 72 while doing something that he loved, playing golf. Known to many as "Mickey", he was born in Lawrence on April 20, 1949 to James L. and Margaret (Bateman) Fin
Egypts President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi is in Djibouti for talks with his counterpart as part of Egyptian diplomatic attempts to build more African alliances amid an ongoing water dispute with Ethiopia
Police in Hawaii say an Oregon woman was arrested last week because she violated travel quarantine rules meant to protect the islands from the spread of coronavirus
Neighbors protested the Sycamore Station project, which they say was originally to have townhomes for sale and then apartments.
The Central government on Thursday announced that COVID-19 vaccine trials on children in the country would begin soon.

Member (Health) in NITI Aayog and the chair of National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19 (NEGVAC), Dr Vinod K Paul, made the announcement on behalf of the government while clearing several myths on India's COVID-19 vaccination programme doing the rounds.

Clarifying one such myth that "Centre is not taking any step to vaccinate children," Paul said, "As of now, no country in the world is giving vaccines to children. Also, WHO has no recommendation on vaccinating children." Paul, however, said that there have been studies about the safety of vaccines in children, which have been encouraging.

"Trials in children in India are also going to begin soon. However, vaccinating children should not be decided on the basis of panic in WhatsApp groups and because some politicians want to play politics," Paul said.

Paul further said that the decision in this regard is taken by our scientists after adequate data is available based on trials. He also made it clear that the Centre is allotting enough vaccines to the states in a transparent manner as per agreed guidelines and they are also being informed in advance of the vaccine availability. Paul also announced that vaccine availability is going to increase in near future and much more supply would be possible.

"In the non-government of India channel, states are getting 25 per cent of the doses and private hospitals are getting 25 per cent doses. However, the hiccups and issues faced by the people in the administration of these 25 per cent doses by the states leave a lot to be desired. The behaviour of some of our leaders, who in spite of full knowledge of the facts on vaccine supply, appear on TV daily and create panic among the people is very unfortunate. This is not the time to play politics. We need everyone to unite in this fight," he added.

He also said that three other companies will start production of Covaxin apart from enhancing Bharat Biotech's own plants, which have increased from one to four. "Covaxin production by Bharat Biotech is being increased from under one crore per month to 10 crore month by October," he said.

Additionally, the three PSUs will together aim to produce up to 4 crore doses by December. With constant encouragement of the government, Serum Institute is ramping up Covishield production of 6.5 crore doses per month to 11 crore doses per month, Paul said. "The Government is also ensuring in partnership with Russia that Sputnik will be manufactured by six companies coordinated by Dr Reddy's. The Union Government is supporting efforts of Zydus Cadila, BioE as well Gennova for their respective indigenous vaccines through liberal funding under COVID Suraksha scheme as also the technical support at national laboratories," he said.

Paul said that the development of Bharat Biotech's single-dose intranasal vaccine is proceeding well with Central government funding, and it could be a game-changer for the world. The estimate of production of over 200 crore doses by our vaccine industry by the end of 2021 is the result of such efforts and unstinted support and partnership.






HKScan staff at Rakvere, Estonia meat production unit vaccinated against COVID-19





More than 400 HKScan employees were vaccinated against COVID-19 on May 12 at a vaccination centre set up at the company's Rakvere, Estonia meat production unit.

So far, 40% of the company's staff have been vaccinated.

"We have been looking forward to vaccines for our employees, and we are very grateful for the opportunity to be able to finally vaccinate both our employees and their immediate family members," said Anne Mere, executive vice president of HKScan (Baltics). "The interest was as expected and we were able to vaccinate almost 400 people within one day. This enables us to breathe a little easier and reduces the likelihood of large outbreaks of infection among our employees - according to the information provided by the employees after the vaccination, 40% of our staff have been covered with vaccine."

The next dose of vaccine will be administered after four weeks. HKScan Estonia also intends to vaccinate employees at other production units as well.

"As an entrepreneur and employer, we are happy to contribute to the vaccination of everyone interested. Vaccination is everyone's personal decision, but we can ensure that this decision would not remain behind logistical problems or technical knowledge, and it is essential for the employees that it can be done comfortably in the workplace," Mere added.

- HKScan






Charoen Pokphand Foods subsidiary in joint effort to aid Philippines' swine industry





Charoen Pokphand Foods Philippines Corp (CPFPC) is partnering with the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) to support the country's swine industry.

In a statement, the DA said a memorandum of agreement was signed on May 20, 2021 between the DBP and CPFPC for the implementation of the Swine Rehabilitation, Repopulation and Recovery Credit, or Swine R3 programme.

The programme aims to finance bio-secure farm projects and support government efforts to help the local swine industry, which has been adversely affected by the African swine fever (ASF) since the first case was reported in August 2019.

"This is a welcome development for us at the DA as we pursue joint efforts to control ASF and repopulate ASF-free areas. With CPFPC's technological expertise in modern bio-secured farms and DBP's support in providing credit assistance to eligible public and private institutions, we will be able to level up our efforts in reviving the industry," Agriculture Secretary William Dar said in the statement.

Emmanuel Herbosa, DBP president and chief executive officer, said the government would be able to elevate and expedite swine repopulation and rehabilitation initiatives that would allow the Philippines to recover its pre-ASF status.

"Through this programme, we hope to assist in the recovery of our hog industry and eventually contribute to the country's food security," Herbosa added.

Swine R3 credit programme borrowers include duly registered private enterprises and local government units (LGUs). Approved loans should be used for the construction of bio-secure swine farms and the acquisition of farm machinery and equipment. Eligible projects include swine breeder farms, swine wean-to-finish farms and consolidated swine facility projects.

"Through this partnership, we will be able to share our knowledge in helping boost a sustainable business climate not only for our company, but also for our Filipino farmer-partners," said CPFPC vice chairman Khun Sakol Cheewakoset. "Our state-of-the-art bio-secured farms enable us to be resilient from ASF, thus making our business a success. Moving forward, this will also open export opportunities for the Philippines. We assure and commit to you our continuous support in investing in the Philippines."

Dar noted that CPFPC's technologies and modern systems would help combat ASF, adding: "I hope the CPFPC can expand their operations in regions near the NCR (National Capital Region), where the country's main pork market is.

"When we rolled out the Integrated National Swine Production Initiatives for Recovery and Expansion, or Inspire programme, we emphasised the whole-of-nation approach. We galvanised support from the private sector, financing institutions, and local government units and committed to strongly implement the hog repopulation programme. We are glad that this is slowly coming into fruition."

- The Manila Times
Ryals murder started with her trying to help someone. Around 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2016, a woman knocked on the door of her house in the 500 block of Garren Avenue. She told Ryals her car had broken down and asked if she could use her phone. When Ryals turned away to get the phone, a man and a second woman wearing masks burst into her house.
Effingham, IL (62401)

Today

Mixed clouds and sun this morning. Scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 94F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low near 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
Mrs. Alberta Hamley Griffin, 97, of Athens, Alabama, died Wednesday, June 9, 2021, at Athens Health and Rehab. A Graveside Service will be 1:30 p.m. Sunday in Copeland Cemetery with Keith Griffin officiating. No visitation is planned. Spry Funeral Home in Athens is directing the services. Mr
Sen. Tom Butler, R-Madison, thanked five members of Athens Fire and Rescue Station No. 1 for their work in helping save an unresponsive patient May 3. The firefighters used an automated external defibrillator to restore the patient's pulse before paramedics arrived and took over. Butler is currently working on funding to furnish Athens Fire with new, updated AEDs.
Acer has given its ConceptD creator notebook lineup a refresh, equipping the latest models with Intel's 11th-gen H-series processors. The new processors announced just earlier this month were designed to power gaming laptops and devices meant for heavy use, and they promise up to a 19 percent speed improvement over their predecessors. Acer's upgraded ConceptD 5 notebooks pair the H-series processors with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 laptop GPU, which has ray tracing capabilities. They can be purchased in configurations with up to 64GB of RAM and up to 2TB of SSD storage, and they feature a 16-inch 3K display with 16:10 aspect ratio.

The ConceptD 5 notebooks are capable of handling 4K videos, 8K editing, multi-app workflows, multiple displays, as well as 2D and 3D software rendering programs. They come with several connectivity options, including two USB Type-C ports, Thunderbolt 4 support, HDMI 2.1 and an SD card reader. Acer is also releasing a ConceptD 5 Pro notebook with either the NVIDIA RTX A5000 or the RTX A3000 GPU instead. Since both are pro-level graphics cards, the option will cost buyers more than the non-Pro ConceptD 5 laptops.

Meanwhile, the ConceptD 7 Ezel convertible notebook has also been updated with Intel's new 11th-Gen Core i7-11800H processor and NVIDIA's GeForce RTX 3080 laptop GPU. It has a 15.6-inch 4K display and comes in configurations with up to 32GB of RAM and up to 2TB of SSD storage. The convertible device has float, share, pad, stand and display modes, thanks to Acer's flexible hinge design, and it comes bundled with a Wacom ER pen. Like the ConceptD 5, the ConceptD 7 Ezel also has a pro version that's powered Intel's Xeon W-11955M processor with NVIDIA's pro-level RTX A5000 or A3000 GPU.

ConceptD 7 Ezel Pro (Acer)

Finally, Acer's mid-range ConceptD 3 devices have also been upgraded with the 11th-Gen Intel H-series processors and NVIDIA's RTX 3050 Ti GPU. They're available in two variants: the standard ConceptD 3 laptop and the convertible ConceptD 3 Ezel notebook. Acer has launched Pro versions for both, as well, with H-series processors up to the Core i7 option and NVIDIA's T1200 Laptop GPU. All ConceptD 3 models have FHD displays, SSD storage and Thunderbolt 4 support.

The ConceptD 5 laptops will be the first to become available in North America. They're arriving in August with prices starting at US$2,000, whereas EMEA buyers can get one as soon as July for at least EUR 2,199. The ConceptD 7 Ezel convertible will hit North America, EMEA and China in October with prices starting at US$ 2,499, EUR 2,699 and RMB 29,999, respectively. Meanwhile, the ConceptD 3 laptops (EUR 1,299) will arrive in EMEA in September. Its convertible sibling, the ConceptD 3 Ezel, will be available in North America in December and will set buyers back at least US$ 1,600. Buyers from EMEA and China can get it starting in September for EUR 1,499 and RMB 12,999.
Taking a page from its Galaxy S10 and S20 playbooks, Samsung has announced the Galaxy Tab S7 FE and Galaxy Tab A7 Lite, two more affordable versions of the Tab S7 and Tab A7 tablets it released last year. Judging by the spec sheet Samsung shared, the more expensive of the two devices, the Tab S7 FE, looks like a decent media consumption and productivity device.

Samsung

It features a 12.4-inch display with a 2,560 by 1,600 resolution panel. The company didn't specify the exact processor inside the Tab S7 FE other than to say it's an octa-core chip with two performance cores clocked at 2GHz. Depending on the storage configuration, the tablet comes with 4GB or 6GB of RAM. You can expand the 64GB or 128GB of internal storage by adding an SD card with up to 1TB of space. The tablet also comes with an 8-megapixel primary camera and a 5-megapixel one for selfies. Samsung will offer a WiFi-only version of the Tab S7 FE, in addition to separate models equipped with LTE and 5G connectivity. Each model also comes with WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0 support. Powering everything is a 10,090mAh battery that supports 45W fast charging. Samsung will offer the Tab S7 FE in four colors: black, silver, green and pink. Each Tab S7 FE will also come with an S Pen stylus inside the box.

As for the Tab A7 Lite, it comes with a smaller 8.7-inch display that has a lower 1,340 by 800 resolution. Its octa-core processor comes paired with either 3GB or 4GB of RAM and 32GB or 64GB of storage. As with the Tab S7 FE, you can add up to 1TB of additional storage through microSD expandability. Samsung will sell WiFi-only and LTE versions of the Tab A7 Lite and offer it in two colors: gray and silver. Both tablets will ship with Android 11 out of the box.

Samsung

A Samsung spokesperson told Engadget the company doesn't yet have US pricing and availability to share for the Tab S7 FE. According to The Verge, the tablet will start at 589 in the UK. Meanwhile, Samsung will release the $159 Tab A7 Lite stateside on June 10th. Across the pond, the Tab A7 Lite will cost 149 when it goes on sale there on June 18th.
After nearly four years of securing community buy-in, Google's plan for a San Jose campus is moving forward. Per The San Francisco Chronicle, the city's council voted unanimously on Tuesday evening to approve the company's Downtown West project. Once complete, the 80-acre site will be one of Google's largest office complexes to date.

In a plan reminiscent of Alphabet's failed Sidewalk Labs bid in Toronto, the project calls for a mixed-use development that will be integrated into the city and partially open to the public. In addition to 7.3 million square feet of office space for approximately 20,000 employees, Google plans to build 4,000 housing units, 300 hotel rooms and at least 10 parks alongside other amenities like retail spaces and a performance area.

To secure approval for the project, Google agreed to pay a first-of-its-kind $200 million community benefit, which will see it invest in anti-displacement and job readiness programs. The company also came to a last-minute agreement with the NHL's San Jose Sharks to avoid miring the project in legal gridlock. Construction on the campus is slated to start as early as next year, but could take the better part of 10 to 30 years to complete.

The approval comes as some of the company's workers return to its offices voluntarily. At the start of May, Google CEO Sundar Pichai said the search giant would adopt a new hybrid workplace plan that would see most employees work out of an office three days a week. As part of that same plan, Pichai said Google would also give workers more freedom to move between offices.
New legislation could raise the US government's electric car tax credit beyond its current $7,500 cap  but only in certain circumstances. Reuters reports that the Senate's Finance Committee has advanced a bill, Clean Energy for America, that would raise the maximum EV credit to $12,500 while eliminating the 200,000-car manufacturer cap. However, vehicles couldn't be priced above $80,000, and you'd only get the full amount if the car was both made in the US (adding $2,500 credit) and assembled by unionized workers (another $2,500).

The measure championed by Democratic Senator Debbie Stabenow would phase out the credit program over three years once half of all US passenger vehicles are electric. It would also offer a 30 percent credit to manufacturers reworking facilities to make energy tech like batteries. There would be additional clean energy tax breaks and drop existing tax measures meant to support fossil fuels. This bill would "level the playing field" for transportation after Congress sided with the oil industry a century ago, according to Stabenow.

This could accelerate the transition to EVs in the US given that GM and Tesla have already run into the current manufacturing cap. However, the production requirements would also favor certain brands over others. Tesla has staunchly opposed unionization, for example, while VW also doesn't have unionized American workers. They would get smaller credits than GM, Ford and other US incumbents.

As it stands, the bill is likely to face stiff opposition and might not survive a Senate vote. Republican Senator John Cornyn claimed it was a "frontal assault" against Texas that would hurt the oil and gas industries in his state. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, meanwhile, claimed during markup that the bill was "partisan" legislation that would deliver "maximum pain" to Americans for little reward. If it does make the cut, however, it could easily become law between a Democrat-led House and President Biden's support for EVs.
The academy is coordinated through Point Option, one of the districts alternative schools, but students will stay enrolled in their current school. Students have to commit for the full year, but theyre able to take virtual classes part-time as well as full-time. The application deadline is Wednesday.
Col. John Schutte, 19th Airlift Wing commander, presents the Distinguished Flying Cross to Maj. Christopher Richardson, 61st Airlift Squadron pilot, at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark., May 10. The DFC is awarded to any officer or enlisted person of the armed forces who distinguished her or himself in combat in support of operations by heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Senior Airman Aaron Irvin)
FAIRVIEW  Funeral services for John Calvin "Cal" Davis, 89, will be 1:00 p.m. Monday, June 14, 2021, in the Fairview Methodist Church, with burial following in the Fairview Cemetery. Arrangements by Fairview Funeral Home, Inc.
Prince Harry and Oprah Winfrey will continue to collaborate to spread mental health awareness across the globe.

Following the success and popularity of the five-part documentary series "The Me You Can't See," Prince Harry and Oprah will work again with Apple TV+ for another special.

In a new press release by the streaming network (per CNN), the mental health advocates will spearhead a "town hall-style" conversation special. They will meet several advisors and participants to reportedly release wide-ranging talks about mental health.

"As the subjects offer further insight into their stories, experts share their guidance for continuing the global conversation," the release stated.

The special received "The Me You Can't See: A Path Forward" as its official title.

Meanwhile, it confirmed the list of participants who will appear on the series so far. It includes Glenn Close, OnTrack NY Peer Counselor Ambar Martinez, and Mental Health Advocate Zak Williams. Meanwhile, the members of "The Me You Can't See" Advisory Board will all join the newest special, as well.

Prince Harry and Oprah's show will be available for streaming starting May 28.

Royal Historian Applauds Prince Harry's Move

The Duke of Sussex shared his personal struggles in the first docuseries, and one royal historian pointed out how the prince makes the world "a better place."

In an interview with People magazine, royal historian Robert Lacey said that Prince Harry took the best move to address everyone's mental health. British journalist Bryony Gordon agreed and said that the Duke of Sussex performs an important duty by breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and issues.

"This is a man who, at the age of 12, was sent out to walk behind his mother's coffin and console the masses outside Kensington Palace," Gordon added. "I just don't understand why we're now angry with him... that might have affected him."

READ ALSO: Martin Bashir Savors Whopping Amount of Money Amid BBC Crisis, Princess Diana Interview Inquiry

In the documentary series, Prince Harry reflected on his life as a member of the royal family. He added how much it affected him when he lost his mother at a very young age.

Meanwhile, he claimed that he underwent pain and struggles because of Prince Charles. The Duke of Sussex mainly blames him for the media scrutiny he and his brother Prince William experienced.

The royal family has not directly commented on the statements yet.

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Angelina Jolie expressed her disbelief after a judge ruled in favor of Brad Pitt for the increased time with their kids.

A new report published by People confirmed that Judge John Ouderkirk granted tt more custody over his five minor children with Jolie. The estranged couple share Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, Knox, and Vivienne together. Meanwhile, their now-19-year-old child, Maddox, is no longer part of the custody case.

It remains unclear whether the decision is already legally bonded. However, a separate source confirmed that there are no changes yet in terms of the official custody.

Although the award is tentative, Jolie expressed her objection by filing a complaint earlier this week.

Angelina Jolie in Pursuit of Court's Nod

On Monday, the 45-year-old "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" actress filed a complaint with California's Second District Court of Appeal. The document mainly claimed the unfair trial before the custody ruling and Judge Ouderkirk's continued presiding.

"Judge Ouderkirk denied Ms. Jolie a fair trial, improperly excluding her evidence relevant to the children's health, safety, and welfare, evidence critical to making her case," Jolie's lawyers said, per Associated Press.

They also claimed that the presiding judge failed to consider the kids' comments in terms of their experiences, needs, or wishes for their custody.

The document added that the California code allows minors over 14 to testify in any custody cases. It means that Pax, Zahara, and Shiloh can all decide on the custody battle.

For several times, Jolie faced rejections because of the judge.

READ ALSO: Ellen DeGeneres To Be Officially Replaced By Kelly Clarkson -- But There's One Major Problem

For what it's worth, she tried to get rid of him from the case by filing a request. However, she ended up getting rejected as the judge shared all the needed disclosures before he was assigned to the case.

In August, the actress filed the request at Los Angeles Superior Court since the judge allegedly failed to fully disclose his connection with Pitt's attorneys.

"Angelina's team was kept in the dark about matters that should have been disclosed. Any attempt to suggest otherwise is only to distract from behavior that violates the rules of ethics for judges," a source told Vanity Fair at that time.

Her legal consultant, Samantha Bley DeJean, added in a statement that Jolie only wanted a fair trial based on facts.

But for the actor's part, Pitt said how glad he feels over the ruling since he only wants the best for the kids.

READ MORE: 'Princess Diana Wasn't Harmed By Panorama Interview': Martin Bashir Expresses Innocence Over BBC Probe Result

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Kevin Clark, popularly known as the kid drummer from the film "School Of Rock" has passed away at the age of 32 after a tragic accident.

According to Chicago Sun Times, Clark was strucked by a Hyundai Sonata on Wednesday midnight while he's riding his bicycle around the Avondale neighborhood in Chicago, Illinois.

In a report released by Chicago Fire Department and Cook County medical examiner's office, he was found by paramedics at Logan Boulevard and was taken to Illinois Masonic Medical Center, he unfortunately did not survived and died at 2:04 in the morning.

The driver, an unamed 20-year-old woman, was driving the car that struck him, police said she was issued with citations.

Clark, who's a real-life muscisian, is popularly known as Freddy "Spazzy McGee" Jones in the film "School Of Rock" whose lead star is comedian Jack Black. The comedian/actor recently took to Instagram to express his sadness after Clark's passing. "Devastating news. Kevin is gone. Way too soon. Beautiful soul. So many great memories. Heartbroken. Sending love to his family and the whole School of Rock community." the actor wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jack Black (@jackblack)

Other co-actors had also posted throwback photos alongside a caption that pays tribute to the late co-star "love you forever, spaz. i will never forget your hugs and your laugh and the sheer joy on your face when we'd run into each other in chicago. thank you for always showing up for me with that "big brother I never had" energy." Rivkah Reyes tweeted Clark, a Chicago native, spent his childhood in Highland Park. He is a naturally-gifted muscisian, according to his Mother, he started playing the drums at the age of 3 by "hitting pots and pans". By the age of 5, his parents eventually enrolled him to have private lessons that trains him to play guitar, piano, and violin. In a statement released to Chicago Suntimes, his Mother, Allison Clark, had expressed her son's love for music "He loved music. He's just a raw talent. He's got a heart of gold," She also mentioned that she was surprised by her son's passing "You know, we're all really in shock. It was just this morning, he was just a 32-year-old kid. It doesn't make sense. A lot of our jammer friends - mostly 65+ - have lost their lives recently. So hopefully he's up there jamming in the sky with them." Clark had landed a role in the 2003 film "School Of Rock" alongside actors such as Jack Black and Miranda Cosgrove. His mom noted that Clark doesn't have any acting experience but managed to land the role because of his drumming skills. A memorial for the late actor will take place on Wednesday night at Teddy O'Brian's in Highwood.





See Now: Famous Actors Who Turned Down Iconic Movie Roles
With Kim Kardashian and her family leaving E! network as they move to a bigger platform, it's only natural for producer Ryan Seacrest to look for new reality stars to take over.

"Keeping Up with the Kardashians" is finally ending this year after 20 seasons.

Now that the biggest moneymakers of the network are saying goodbye, it has been reported by Page Six that Seacrest is looking for a replacement to fill the void created by the Kardashians.

According to the outlet, Seacrest, who is a creator and executive producer of KUWTK, is courting Bella Thorne and her sisters to be the next "dysfunctional family to rake in Kardashian-size cash for the network."

Their insider also revealed that they have the perfect replacement for each sister, even went as far as to say that "They've even got a Kylie!"

The former Disney channel actress moved to Los Angeles from Florida with her sister Dani, a record producer and a DJ, and their half-sister Kaili, which is also pronounced Kylie, who also did small acting roles, to make it in Hollywood.

Thankfully, the big move did great for them, especially for Bella Thorne for landing a contract with Disney and later moving into a producer job to get into the porn industry.

READ ALSO: 'The Talk' Left Out From 2021 Daytime Emmy Nominations: Is The Snub Because of Sharon Osbourne?

Bella Thorne and Sisters Scandals

The Thorne sisters also have been embroiled in Kardashian-worthy scandals in the process.

For instance, the "Midnight Sun" actress dated rapper Mod Sun in 2018, but their 2019 breakup became so harsh that the authorities got involved when Bella allegedly showed up at his house unannounced, demanding he turn over her passport and laptop whom she claimed he was holding hostage.

When Bella Thorne and her sister Kaili joined adult content creation site OnlyFans, sex workers savagely turned on them.

According to the longtime users of the platform, the 23-year-old Hollywood star was undermining the site by joining as a celebrity, which also irritated other content creators when she claimed to have been the first to join it.

Kaili also got a ton of backlash for saying sex work isn't "real" and later dug her own grave even more by claiming, "The argument is that sex should not be work. That's why it turns into human trafficking and should be stopped. Sex work does not exist. It is not real."

So maybe Ryan Seacrest has every reason to believe that Bella Thorne and her sisters would generate the same or even more drama to match Kim, Kourtney, and Khloe Kardashian's drama.

READ MORE: Marilyn Manson WANTED: Gets Another Arrest Warrant For New Allegations Following Mounting Lawsuit

See Now: Famous Actors Who Turned Down Iconic Movie Roles
On Wednesday's episode of "The View," Meghan McCain and Joy Behar reportedly haven't spoken or interacted with each other following reports that they were scolded for their on-air spat that happened early this week.

According to a news outlet, McCain reportedly stormed out of a meeting with ABC's top executives after the on-air incident.

She met with ABC News President Kim Godwin but ran out because she reportedly felt like she was being "attacked."

McCain has already spoken about her conservative views in the past, even likening herself to a "token conservative" on shows like "The View."

More Things Happened at 'The View' Meeting with Hosts and Producers

Insiders who knew what the meeting entailed told the outlet that Godwin, who acquired the position just this month, and the network have been swamped with calls to fire Meghan McCain from "The View" following her latest brawl with co-host Behar last Wednesday.

The meeting was said to have been set at the very last minute, with "The View" hosts and producers tried to "cool down" the personal attacks happening on live TV.

Per their insider, Godwin told the hosts and producers that their arguments were getting too heated on-air, specifically referencing not to subjects they talked about but their grandiloquence towards each other.

Godwin also reportedly told everyone in the meeting that she has been getting calls to fire Meghan McCain on "The View" for attacking her co-hosts, even went on to say that the hostility between the hosts is coming off as toxic to viewers of the show.

The ABC News President also echoed that she wasn't just aiming at one specific host, but is hoping that everyone just cools the confrontations because it's not the kind of direction she has envisioned for "The View."

The insider also said that thankfully, Godwin didn't reference their show's competition to CBS' "The Talk," which recently fired Sharon Osbourne for her attacks and outbursts toward co-host Sheryl Underwood.

It's unclear if Meghan McCain will suffer the same fate as Osbourne.

READ ALSO:'The Talk' Left Out From 2021 Daytime Emmy Nominations: Is The Snub Because of Sharon Osbourne?

What Happened on 'The View' With Meghan McCain, Joy Behar?

During the on-air debacle, McCain lashed out at a Whoopi Goldberg-led conversation about the Israeli-Palestinian issue, where the conservative daughter of the late John McCain called on the media to cover the anti-Semitic hate crimes the same way "we do with every other minority."

When McCain continued her rant, Goldberg had to interrupt so they could go to a commercial break.

Meghan McCain then shouted at her, "Why are you cutting me off?" to which Goldberg yelled back saying, "Because we're going to break."

When the commercial break ended, the ladies returned and McCain picked up where she left off.

READ MORE: The Real Score Between Kanye West and Irina Shayk Following Kim Kardashian Wedding Anniversary

See Now: Famous Actors Who Turned Down Iconic Movie Roles
Twitter users call out Hollywood screenwriters, directors, and producers on their obsession and out-of-hand fetishization of serial killers in recent years.

According to E!, Voltage Pictures plans to release "American Boogeyman" on August 16, 2021, the film revolves around the manhunt that brought justice to the identified victims of Bundy, played by Murray.

Weve gotten really comfortable with these serial killer shows to the point of glorifying them me thinks  Elon Musty (@jennyagyei) May 26, 2021

Based on the article from Nulled News, netizens have unanimously decided that there is no need for another movie about Ted Bundy. "We've gotten really comfortable with these serial killer shows to the point of glorifying them.." user @jennyagyei tweets, while others are "literally begging Hollywood to stop making movies about this man [Bundy] who violated and brutalized multiple women."

Literally begging Hollywood to stop making movies about this man who violated and brutalized multiple women.  : (@moonchiile) May 26, 2021

READ MORE: James Gunn's The Suicide Squad 2021 Poster Says So Much of a Very Unlikely Superhero Film, Trailer Teased

From One Tree Hill's Heartthrob to a Repulsingly Deceiving Murderer, Murray's Fans Express Their Disappointment

Chad Murray's career seems to be on the right path from his beloved role as the heartthrob from "One Tree Hill" to embracing the cult leader character in "Riverdale," the actor has slowly gained supporters over the years.

However, his fans are taken aback by the announcement of his role as Ted Bundy in the upcoming film "American Boogeyman." Avid supporters recognize the impact of getting this role for Murray, but it doesn't erase the fact that the "Ted Bundy" narrative is a recycled and overused plot.

Chad Michael Murray will star as Ted Bundy in American Boogeyman, based on the untold story of the intrepid detective and rookie FBI profiler who pursued the serial killer.



Lin Shaye and Holland Roden co-star.



(https://t.co/xHfGnlJia4) pic.twitter.com/w6749cdDz5  Film Updates (@TheFilmUpdates) May 26, 2021

"This is sad because I loved CMM growing up but I hate how much Hollywood romanticizes Ted Bundy," Twitter user @JKMcGUEE commented under The Film Updates tweet covering the recent news.

Twitter Users Begs Hollywood to Pull the Plug on ALL Ted Bundy Movies, Better Yet Stop Romanticizing Serial Killers

After the last Ted Bundy movie starring Zac Effron and the Netflix series revolving around Bundy's recorded tapes, netizens are beginning to speak about the repetitive ideas appearing on the big and small screens.

According to Sporskeeda, the American Boogeyman is set in the 1970s American gritty and decadent era, following the overused plot of "the elusive and charming killer" and tells the story of justice as the detective and FBI rookie leads the manhunt which coined the term "serial killer."

The underwhelming response from their future audience resulted in funny memes such as the one from a Twitter user, "society if Hollywood stops giving us Ted Bundy movies and romanticizing an actually f*****g monster." While others are adamant in their opinion that "society has progressed past the need" for films about the notorious serial murderer.

society has progressed past the need for more ted bundy films  jackie (@siakcis) May 26, 2021

READ ALSO: Netflix 2021 Movies: 3 Original Films To Watch Out For in the New Year

See Now: Famous Actors Who Turned Down Iconic Movie Roles
2021-05-27

Maeci

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Luigi Di Maio, is in Lisbon to attend the informal meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the European Union (Gymnich).

Read the press release


DALLAS, May 27, 2021 -- Adults who have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) were more than three times as likely to have an ischemic stroke later in life compared to adults who do not have OCD, according to new research published today in Stroke, a journal of the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association.

"The results of our study should encourage people with OCD to maintain a healthy lifestyle, such as quitting or not smoking, getting regular physical activity and managing a healthy weight to avoid stroke-related risk factors," said study senior author Ya-Mei Bai, M.D., Ph.D., a professor in the department of psychiatry at Taipei Veterans General Hospital and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University College of Medicine, both in Taiwan.

Worldwide, stroke is the second-leading cause of death after heart disease. Stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood and oxygen flow to the brain are interrupted, usually by a blood clot (ischemic stroke). Less common is stroke from a burst blood vessel that causes bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). In both types of stroke, immediate treatment is critical to prevent brain damage, disability or death. The abbreviation F.A.S.T. can help people remember the warning signs and what to do: F-face drooping, A-arm weakness, S-speech difficulty, T-time to call 9-1-1.

OCD is a common, sometimes debilitating, mental health condition characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts, ideas or sensations (obsessions) that make a person feel driven to do something repetitively (compulsions). The repetitive behaviors characteristic of OCD, such as hand washing, checking on things or continuously cleaning, can significantly interfere with a person's daily activities and social interactions. Previous research found that OCD often occurs after stroke or other brain injury. What remained unclear was whether the reverse is true: can OCD increase stroke risk?

To find out, researchers examined health records from 2001-2010 from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database to compare stroke risk between 28,064 adults with OCD and 28,064 adults who did not have OCD. The average age at diagnosis with OCD was 37 years, and women and men were nearly equally represented in the data. Researchers compared stroke risk between the two groups for up to 11 years.

The analysis found:

Adults with OCD were more than three times as likely to have a stroke from a blood clot compared to adults who did not have OCD; the greatest risk was among adults ages 60 and older.

OCD was an independent risk factor for ischemic stroke even after controlling for other factors known to increase stroke risk, including obesity, heart disease, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and Type 2 diabetes.

No difference in risk was found for a hemorrhagic stroke (burst blood vessel).

Similarly, medications to treat OCD were not associated with an increased risk of stroke.

"For decades, studies have found a relationship between stroke first and OCD later," Bai said. "Our findings remind clinicians to closely monitor blood pressure and lipid profiles, which are known to be related to stroke in patients with OCD."

Limitations of the study were that only stroke among patients who sought health care were included, so some cases may have been missed; and information on disease severity was not included along with family medical history or environmental influences. The study also was observational, so it could only show an association between OCD and later stroke; it does not prove cause and effect.

"More research is needed to understand how the mental processes connected to OCD may increase the risk of ischemic stroke," Bai said.

###

Co-authors are Mu-Hong Chen, M.D., Ph.D.; Shih-Jen Tsai, M.D.; Tung-Ping Su, M.D.; Cheng-Ta Li, M.D., Ph.D.; Wei-Chen Lin, M.D.; Tzeng-Ji Chen, M.D., Ph.D.; and Tai-Long Pan, Ph.D. Author disclosures are listed in the manuscript.

Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Yen Tjing Ling Medical Foundation and the Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan funded the study.

Additional Resources:

Multimedia is available on the right column of the release link: https:/ / newsroom. heart. org/ news/ obsessive-compulsive-disorder-linked-to-increased-ischemic-stroke-risk-later-in-life?preview= f67aec58f4c39a681bd427453c7cbde2

After May 27, view the manuscript online.

Stroke warning signs

Stroke survivors may have higher suicide risk

What is Brain Health?

Strong link found between level of depression and heart disease, stroke

Follow AHA/ASA news on Twitter @HeartNews

Follow news from Stroke, the ASA/AHA journal @StrokeAHA_ASA

Statements and conclusions of studies published in the American Heart Association's scientific journals are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect the Association's policy or position. The Association makes no representation or guarantee as to their accuracy or reliability. The Association receives funding primarily from individuals; foundations and corporations (including pharmaceutical, device manufacturers and other companies) also make donations and fund specific Association programs and events. The Association has strict policies to prevent these relationships from influencing the science content. Revenues from pharmaceutical and biotech companies, device manufacturers and health insurance providers are available here, and the Association's overall financial information is available here.

About the American Stroke Association

The American Stroke Association is a relentless force for a world with fewer strokes and longer, healthier lives. We team with millions of volunteers and donors to ensure equitable health and stroke care in all communities. We work to prevent, treat and beat stroke by funding innovative research, fighting for the public's health, and providing lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based association was created in 1998 as a division of the American Heart Association. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-888-4STROKE or visit stroke.org. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
South Africa: Nowa Makula sentence welcomed by Cabinet

Cabinet has joined the Commission for Gender Equality in welcoming the six life terms handed down to Nowa Makula, 32, for the murder of his girlfriend, Nomzamo Mhlanti and five children.

This sends a strong message that all perpetrators of such abhorrent crimes will face the full might of the law, Acting Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Thursday.

Cabinet, she said, also condemned the recent killings in Khayelitsha, Western Cape and in Zandspruit, Gauteng, that claimed the lives of 21 people.

Cabinet commended police for the quick response in arresting suspects and called on the community to work with police to make our streets safer for all, the Minister said.

Cabinet, which held an ordinary meeting on Wednesday, welcomed the collaboration between local and international law-enforcement agencies that resulted in the seizure of drugs in Africa and the Middle East.

The operations, led by Interpol, involved 41 countries and resulted in the seizure of drugs worth nearly 100 million euros. As part of this successful operation, the police in South Africa seized drugs worth around 32 million euros from a fishing vessel and arrested 10 people, she said. SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2021-05-27. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
New advances inspire China's deep space exploration

Xinhua) 11:19, May 27, 2021

The Long March-5B Y2 rocket, carrying the Tianhe module, blasts off from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in south China's Hainan Province, April 29, 2021. (Xinhua/Ju Zhenhua)

BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- With news of achievements pouring in these days, China is pushing forward its deep space exploration, aiming to contribute its wisdom in humankind's peaceful utilization of outer space.

SPACE STATION CONSTRUCTION

On April 29, China sent into space the core module of its space station, kicking off a series of key launch missions that aim to complete the construction of the station by the end of next year.

The successful launch of the Tianhe module marks that China's space station construction has entered the full implementation stage, which lays a solid foundation for the follow-up tasks.

Tianhe will act as the management and control hub of the space station Tiangong, meaning Heavenly Palace.

China will send two cargo spacecrafts and two manned crafts this year to dock with the core module. It plans six missions, including the launch of the Wentian and Mengtian lab modules, two cargo spacecraft and two manned spaceships, in 2022 to complete the construction of the space station.

"The station is expected to contribute to the peaceful development and utilization of space resources through international cooperation, as well as to enrich technologies and experience for China's future explorations into deeper space," Bai Linhou, deputy chief designer of the space station at the China Academy of Space Technology.

China has extensive exchanges and cooperation on the space station project, with the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), the European Space Agency, and national space agencies from countries like Germany, Italy, France and Pakistan.

The cooperation has covered multiple fields, including technologies, science research and application, and astronaut selection and training, producing many achievements.

"Through cooperation, we want to build China's space station into a scientific research platform shared by the world and benefiting all humankind," said Hao Chun, director of the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).

Black and white photo released by the China National Space Administration on May 19, 2021, taken by an obstacle avoidance camera installed in front of the Mars rover, shows that a ramp on the lander has been extended to the surface of Mars. (China National Space Administration/Handout via Xinhua)

MARS LANDING

On May 15, China landed its Mars probe, Tianwen-1, on the red planet, ushering in a new chapter of China's deep space exploration and marking another contribution to humanity's exploration of the universe.

The lander, carrying a Mars rover, touched down at its pre-selected landing area in the southern part of Utopia Planitia, a vast plain on the northern hemisphere of Mars.

Tianwen-1, consisting of an orbiter, a lander and a rover, was launched from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site on the coast of southern China's island province of Hainan on July 23, 2020. It was the first step in China's planetary exploration of the solar system, with the aim of completing orbiting, landing and roving on the red planet in one mission.

More than 40 Mars missions have been launched since the 1960s, but only about half have succeeded. The success rate for landing is even lower.

The exploration of Mars will not only investigate whether there is or was life on Mars but will also help shed light on the history of evolution and the future development trends of Earth, as well as search for potential living space for human beings, said Li Chunlai, deputy chief designer of China's first Mars exploration mission.

Extensive international cooperation has been carried out during the Tianwen-1 mission.

China is working with the European Space Agency and Argentina for the mission's measurement and control, and with France and Austria for the calibration of multiple payloads and data analysis.

FUTURE EXPLORATION PLAN

China would implement multiple space missions, including Chang'e-6, Chang'e-7, Chang'e-8, asteroid exploration, Mars sampling returns, and Jupiter explorations in the future.

It has completed feasibility studies of the fourth phase of its lunar exploration program and is expected to build an international lunar research station on the moon's south pole in the future.

"China is willing to cooperate with relevant countries and international organizations to deliberate the basic capabilities for the initial construction of a lunar research station and test key technologies," said Wu Yanhua, vice administrator of the China National Space Administration (CNSA).

Three missions are planned for the fourth phase of the lunar exploration program. The program includes the retrieval of lunar samples from the south pole by Chang'e-6, a detailed survey of the moon's south pole resources by Chang'e-7, and the testing of key technologies in preparation for the construction of the lunar research station by Chang'e-8.

China aims to launch the Chang'e-6 probe to collect samples in the South Pole-Aitken Basin on the far side of the moon around 2024. The CNSA has invited scientists around the world to participate in the program, offering to carry solicited payloads.

China is also pushing forward its exploration of a near-Earth asteroid and a main-belt comet with one space probe.

The mission is to send a probe around an asteroid named 2016HO3 and then land on it to collect samples. The probe will then fly back to Earth's proximity and release a capsule to return the samples. After that, it will continue its journey and finally arrive at the main asteroid belt and orbit comet 311P. The whole process will take about ten years.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
The administration is aware that the COVID-19 crisis caused financial hardships for mhany students and their families, university Provost Farrah Ward said in a statement. As the pandemic and its impact continue to affect our students, we are committed to finding ways to support the Viking Community through this crisis.
In 29 new scientific papers, the Dark Energy Survey examines the largest-ever maps of galaxy distribution and shapes, extending more than 7 billion light-years across the Universe. The extraordinarily precise analysis, which includes data from the survey's first three years, contributes to the most powerful test of the current best model of the Universe, the standard cosmological model. However, hints remain from earlier DES data and other experiments that matter in the Universe today is a few percent less clumpy than predicted.

New results from the Dark Energy Survey (DES) use the largest-ever sample of galaxies observed over nearly one-eighth of the sky to produce the most precise measurements to date of the Universe's composition and growth.

DES images the night sky using the 570-megapixel Dark Energy Camera on the National Science Foundation's Victor M. Blanco 4-meter Telescope at Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory (CTIO) in Chile, a Program of NSF's NOIRLab. One of the most powerful digital cameras in the world, the Dark Energy Camera was designed specifically for DES. It was funded by the Department of Energy (DOE) and was built and tested at DOE's Fermilab.

Over the course of six years, from 2013 to 2019, DES used 30% of the time on the Blanco Telescope and surveyed 5000 square degrees -- almost one-eighth of the entire sky -- in 758 nights of observation, cataloging hundreds of millions of objects. The results announced today draw on data from the first three years -- 226 million galaxies observed over 345 nights -- to create the largest and most precise maps yet of the distribution of galaxies in the Universe at relatively recent epochs. The DES data were processed at the National Center for Supercomputing Applications at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

"NOIRLab is a proud host for and member of the DES collaboration," said Steve Heathcote, CTIO Associate Director. "Both during and after the survey, the Dark Energy Camera has been a popular choice for community and Chilean astronomers."

At present the Dark Energy Camera is used for programs covering a huge range of science including cosmology. The Dark Energy Camera science archive, including DES Data Release 2 on which these results are based, is curated by the Community Science and Data Center (CSDC), a Program of NSF's NOIRLab. CSDC provides software systems, user services, and development initiatives to connect and support the scientific missions of NOIRLab's telescopes, including the Blanco telescope at CTIO.

Since DES studied nearby galaxies as well as those billions of light-years away, its maps provide both a snapshot of the current large-scale structure of the Universe and a view of how that structure has evolved over the past 7 billion years.

Ordinary matter makes up only about 5% of the Universe. Dark energy, which cosmologists hypothesize drives the accelerating expansion of the Universe by counteracting the force of gravity, accounts for about 70%. The last 25% is dark matter, whose gravitational influence binds galaxies together. Both dark matter and dark energy remain invisible. DES seeks to illuminate their nature by studying how the competition between them shapes the large-scale structure of the Universe over cosmic time.

To quantify the distribution of dark matter and the effect of dark energy, DES relied mainly on two phenomena. First, on large scales galaxies are not distributed randomly throughout space but rather form a weblike structure that is due to the gravity of dark matter. DES measured how this cosmic web has evolved over the history of the Universe. The galaxy clustering that forms the cosmic web in turn revealed regions with a higher density of dark matter.

Second, DES detected the signature of dark matter through weak gravitational lensing. As light from a distant galaxy travels through space, the gravity of both ordinary and dark matter in the foreground can bend its path, as if through a lens, resulting in a distorted image of the galaxy as seen from Earth. By studying how the apparent shapes of distant galaxies are aligned with each other and with the positions of nearby galaxies along the line of sight, DES scientists were able to infer the clumpiness of the dark matter in the Universe.

To test cosmologists' current model of the Universe, DES scientists compared their results with measurements from the European Space Agency's orbiting Planck observatory. Planck used light known as the cosmic microwave background to peer back to the early Universe, just 400,000 years after the Big Bang. The Planck data give a precise view of the Universe 13 billion years ago, and the standard cosmological model predicts how the dark matter should evolve to the present.

Combined with earlier results DES provides the most powerful test of the current best model of the Universe to date, and the results are consistent with the predictions of the standard model of cosmology. However, hints remain from DES and several previous galaxy surveys that the Universe today is a few percent less clumpy than predicted [1].

Ten regions of the sky were chosen as "deep fields" that the Dark Energy Camera imaged repeatedly throughout the survey. Stacking those images together allowed the scientists to glimpse more distant galaxies. The team then used the redshift information from the deep fields to calibrate the rest of the survey region. This and other advancements in measurements and modeling, coupled with a threefold increase in data compared to the first year, enabled the team to pin down the density and clumpiness of the Universe with unprecedented precision.

DES concluded its observations of the night sky in 2019. With the experience gained from analyzing the first half of the data, the team is now prepared to handle the complete dataset. The final DES analysis is expected to paint an even more precise picture of the dark matter and dark energy in the Universe.

The DES collaboration consists of over 400 scientists from 25 institutions in seven countries.

"The collaboration is remarkably young. It's tilted strongly in the direction of postdocs and graduate students who are doing a huge amount of this work," said DES Director and spokesperson Rich Kron, who is a Fermilab and University of Chicago scientist. "That's really gratifying. A new generation of cosmologists are being trained using the Dark Energy Survey."

The methods developed by the team have paved the way for future sky surveys such as the Rubin Observatory Legacy Survey of Space and Time. "DES shows that the era of big survey data has well and truly begun," notes Chris Davis, NSF's Program Director for NOIRLab. "DES on NSF's Blanco telescope has set the scene for the remarkable discoveries to come with Rubin Observatory over the coming decade."

###

Notes

[1] For more information, see the scientific paper Planck 2018 Results. VI. Cosmological Parameters.

More information

The recent DES results will be presented in a scientific seminar on 27 May 2021. Twenty-nine papers are available on the arXiv online repository and from the Dark Energy Survey website. The main paper is Dark Energy Survey Year 3 Results: Cosmological Constraints from Galaxy Clustering and Weak Lensing.

NSF's NOIRLab (National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory), the US center for ground-based optical-infrared astronomy, operates the international Gemini Observatory (a facility of NSF, NRC-Canada, ANID-Chile, MCTIC-Brazil, MINCyT-Argentina, and KASI-Republic of Korea), Kitt Peak National Observatory (KPNO), Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory (CTIO), the Community Science and Data Center (CSDC), and Vera C. Rubin Observatory (in cooperation with DOE's SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory). It is managed by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) under a cooperative agreement with NSF and is headquartered in Tucson, Arizona. The astronomical community is honored to have the opportunity to conduct astronomical research on Iolkam Du'ag (Kitt Peak) in Arizona, on Maunakea in Hawai?i, and on Cerro Tololo and Cerro Pachon in Chile. We recognize and acknowledge the very significant cultural role and reverence that these sites have to the Tohono O'odham Nation, to the Native Hawaiian community, and to the local communities in Chile, respectively.

The Dark Energy Survey is a collaboration of more than 400 scientists from 25 institutions in seven countries. For more information about the survey, please visit the experiment's website.

Funding for the DES Projects has been provided by the US Department of Energy, the US National Science Foundation, the Ministry of Science and Education of Spain, the Science and Technology Facilities Council of the United Kingdom, the Higher Education Funding Council for England, the National Center for Supercomputing Applications at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, the Kavli Institute of Cosmological Physics at the University of Chicago, Funding Authority for Funding and Projects in Brazil, Carlos Chagas Filho Foundation for Research Support of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development and the Ministry of Science and Technology, the German Research Foundation and the collaborating institutions in the Dark Energy Survey.

NCSA at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign provides supercomputing and advanced digital resources for the nation's science enterprise. At NCSA, University of Illinois faculty, staff, students and collaborators from around the globe use advanced digital resources to address research grand challenges for the benefit of science and society. NCSA has been advancing one third of the Fortune 50 for more than 30 years by bringing industry, researchers and students together to solve grand challenges at rapid speed and scale. For more information, please visit http://www. ncsa. illinois. edu .

Fermilab is America's premier national laboratory for particle physics and accelerator research. A US Department of Energy Office of Science laboratory, Fermilab is located near Chicago, Illinois, and operated under contract by the Fermi Research Alliance LLC. Visit Fermilab's website at http://www. fnal. gov and follow us on Twitter at @Fermilab.

The DOE Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. For more information, please visit science.energy.gov.

Contacts

Alistair Walker

Astronomer and Dark Energy Camera Instrument Scientist

NSF's NOIRLab

Email: alistair.walker@noirlab.edu

Amanda Kocz

Press and Internal Communications Officer

NSF's NOIRLab

Cell: +1 626 524 5884

Email: amanda.kocz@noirlab.edu
Experts who sit on national vaccine advisory panels are asked to disclose any industry ties and other conflicts of interest. But an investigation published by The BMJ today finds that disclosure standards differ widely, often leaving the public in the dark.

Investigative journalist Paul D Thacker looked at experts sitting on the covid-19 authorisation committees at the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), as well as those on the UK's Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), which advises the government on vaccines.

Both the FDA and the UK government require panellists to disclose conflicts only from the previous 12 months, "which can miss significant financial payments that occurred in recent years," he notes.

He found that most experts on the FDA and JCVI committees registered no conflicts of interest. For example, from the JCVI's December meeting on 22 December 2020, the minutes report that 18 of 19 members had "no registered conflicts of interest," a pattern repeated in its eight other minuted meetings.

And among FDA experts who were not industry or consumer representatives, the agency reported that 20 of 21 voting members had no conflicts at the 10 December advisory committee, as well as the same or a similar proportion at other covid vaccine meetings.

Thacker also finds that in some cases an expert has made a disclosure - for example, receiving a study grant or honorarium from a vaccine manufacturer - but the committee has not deemed it a conflict.

A spokesperson for Public Health England told The BMJ that for a single issue meeting of the JCVI such as for covid-19, conflicts of interest must be reported "only if they relate directly to that matter, rather than more widely."

Transparency problems increase with the UK's MHRA, which authorises vaccines after seeking advice from the Commission on Human Medicines, an independent expert scientific advisory body to government ministers, adds Thacker, saying: "The commission does not make its advice public, publishes a scant record of meeting minutes, and has not disclosed its members' declarations of financial interest since 2018."

In the US, outside experts advise the FDA on whether to approve or authorise products. Thacker notes that only two members were reported to have conflicts of interest among several covid authorisation panels that met in late 2020. But The BMJ found panellists who had significant financial matters by looking at the Open Payments disclosure website and examining panellists' published papers.

For example, Open Payments reported that Arnold Monto, professor at the University of Michigan School of Public Health and acting chair for the FDA's covid vaccine authorisation meetings, had received over $24,000 in payments from drug companies in 2019.

Adriane Fugh-Berman, professor of pharmacology and physiology at Georgetown University in Washington, DC says that these results reveal how confusing disclosure is and that common rules are needed.

Few people realise that there's no common standard for what must be disclosed and how far back, she explains, nor that disclosure is a two step process. Experts disclose interests to an entity - such as a journal, university, or government agency - which then decides what to disclose to the public. "There needs to be standardisation of what should be disclosed and how it should be disclosed," she says.

Joel Lexchin of York University in Toronto, who publishes research on conflicts of interest, suggests that government agencies should publish everything that experts disclose to them, instead of picking and choosing what to make public.

He agrees that a standardised, universal disclosure form would make compliance easier for people and help avoid confusion about which financial matters should be disclosed and what the institutions should make public. "People can legitimately follow whatever rules they encounter, but important things may still get left out," he explains.

The BMJ's investigation also uncovered close ties between a leading medical journal and the FDA's authorisation process.

The editor in chief of the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM), Eric Rubin, sat on the authorisation panels for and voted to recommend authorising the Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson covid-19 vaccines.

Pfizer and Moderna subsequently published their clinical trials in NEJM. Yet Rubin declared no conflicts of interest to all three vaccine panels.

Asked by The BMJ whether he recused himself from the decisions on the NEJM submissions, he said: "Overall, we consider the deep involvement of editors in the medical and research communities to be a strength, not a problem."

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Externally peer reviewed? No

Evidence type: Investigation

Subject: Vaccine advisory committees
A study led by research groups of Prof. FU Qiaomei from the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology (IVPP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Prof. ZHANG Hucai from Yunnan University covers the largest temporal transect of population dynamics in East Asia so far and offers a clearer picture of the deep population history of northern East Asia.

The study was published in Cell on May 27.

Northern East Asia falls within a similar latitude range as central and southern Europe, where human population movements and size were influenced by Ice Age climatic fluctuations. Did these climatic fluctuations have an impact on the population history of northern East Asia?

Stories uncovered by ancient DNA in East Asia remain relatively underexplored. The population dynamics between 40,000 years ago (40 ka) and 9.5 ka still remain mysterious.

To answer questions related to the deep population history of East Asia, the researchers obtained genome-wide genotype data from 25 ancient humans ranging from 33 to 3.4 ka from the Songnen Plain (Heilongjiang Province, northeastern China) in the Amur Region. This period covers the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), which is crucial to understanding what happened to northern East Asians before, during and after the LGM.

They found that the oldest sample (AR33K, ~33 ka) shares the highest genetic affinity with the Tianyuan man (~40 ka near Beijing, which represents the earliest ancient genome found in East Asia so far), compared to all other published ancient and modern individuals. This probably indicates that Tianyuan/AR33K ancestry was widespread before the LGM in northern East Asia, both geographically and temporally (from 40 ka to 33 ka). In addition, both AR33K and Tianyuan are basal to all East Asians."

The second oldest sample (AR19K, ~19 ka), an individual who lived toward the end of the LGM, is revealed to be the earliest northern East Asian yet identified. This shows that North-South genetic separation in East Asia occurred as early as 19 ka, 10,000 years earlier than previously discovered. AR19K also possesses a genetic ancestry distinct from that of the modern humans who occupied this region before the LGM (e.g., Tianyuan and AR33K), indicating a potential population shift.

The analyses of younger samples after the LGM demonstrate that the genetic continuity reported between modern inhabitants of the Amur Region and the Devil's Cave population (about 8 ka) probably started as early as 14 ka, i.e., 6,000 years earlier than previously proposed.

"The Amur Region populations could have been at the forefront of interactions with ancient North Eurasian (ANE)-related populations that likely contributed to the Ancient Paleo-Siberians," said Prof. FU. The Ancient Paleo-Siberians are reported to be the closest relatives of Native American populations outside of the Americas.

Besides elucidating population dynamics, these analyses provide the first ancient DNA evidence to narrow the time of appearance of an Asian-specific variant (EDAR V370A), which is associated with anthropogenic traits like thicker hair shafts, more sweat glands, and shovel-shaped incisors.

"This genetic variant was likely to be elevated to high frequency after the LGM. Our direct observations using ancient DNA likely support the hypothesis that selection on EDAR V370A increased vitamin D in breast milk in a low UV environment," said Associate Professor MAO Xiaowei, the first author of the study.

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Six researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory have received FY 2021 DOE Early Career Research Program awards.

Argonne scientists Corey Adams, Melina Avila Coronado, Lindsey Bleem, Si Chen, Sheng Di and Xueying Lu are among 83 scientists nationwide to receive the coveted funding and recognition.

"Maintaining our nation's braintrust of world-class scientists and researchers is one of DOE's top priorities -- and that means we need to give them the resources they need to succeed early on in their careers," said Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. "These awardees show exceptional potential to help us tackle America's toughest challenges and secure our economic competitiveness for decades to come."

Now in its 12th year, the DOE's Early Career Research Program awards each recipient with at least $500,000 per year for five years to advance their research. A program of the DOE Office of Science, the award bolsters the nation's science workforce by providing financial support to exceptional researchers during their critical early-career years, when many create their most formative work.

Corey Adams is an assistant computer scientist at the Argonne Leadership Computing Facility, a DOE Office of Science User Facility, and a member of the Medium Energy group in Argonne's Physics division. Originally a high energy physicist working on neutrino physics problems, he now works at the intersection of fundamental experimental physics and the application of deep learning and machine learning techniques to science problems -- including neutrino physics -- on high-performance supercomputers. He received the DOE award for his research on the construction of a background-free, normal-ordering neutrino-less double beta decay demonstrator.

Adams' research was selected for funding by DOE's Office of Nuclear Physics.

Melina Avila Coronado is an assistant physicist and experimentalist in the Low Energy group in Argonne's Physics division. She joined Argonne in 2014 as a postdoctoral appointee after receiving her doctorate in physics from Florida State University and attained her current position in 2016. Her research centers on studying nuclear reactions to better understand the abundance of elements observed in nature and how they are formed in different stellar processes.

Avila Coronado's research was selected for funding by DOE's Office of Nuclear Physics, which will support her research in measuring key nuclear reactions for an astrophysical process known as the weak r-process.

Lindsey Bleem, an assistant physicist at Argonne, is also a member of the Kavli Institute for Cosmological Physics at the University of Chicago. Her research interests focus on constraining physical models of our universe through measurements of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) and galaxy surveys. Bleem's award will support her work to maximize dark energy constraints from next-generation CMB cluster surveys.

The DOE Office of High Energy Physics selected Bleem's research for funding.

Si Chen is a physicist at Argonne's Advanced Photon Source (APS), a DOE Office of Science User Facility. Among other projects, she led the development of the Bionanoprobe, a hard X-ray scanning nanoprobe with cryogenic capabilities and the first instrument of its kind in the world. The DOE award will support Chen's research in developing an innovative multiscale imaging platform that combines an X-ray nanoprobe and a plasma-focused ion beam.

Chen's research was selected for funding by DOE's Office of Basic Energy Sciences.

Sheng Di is a computer scientist in the Mathematics and Computer Science division at Argonne. His current research interests include lossy compression for scientific datasets, high-performance computing, scalable computing and fault tolerance. Dr. Di leads several data reduction projects funded by DOE and the National Science Foundation. He is the co-founder and key developer of the state-of-the-art lossy compressor SZ that serves important DOE applications in different fields: cosmology, quantum chemistry, crystallography, molecular dynamics and others.

Di's award was selected for funding by the Office of Advanced Scientific Computing Research and will support his work on scalable dynamic scientific data reduction.

Xueying Lu came to the Argonne Accelerator Institute and the APS Accelerator Systems division as a joint faculty appointment with Northern Illinois University in 2020. The DOE award will support her work on innovative wakefield acceleration technologies at the Argonne Wakefield Accelerator.

Lu's research was selected for funding by the DOE Office of High Energy Physics.

"These distinguished researchers are valued members of our diverse, world-class community of talent. They are making impactful new discoveries and delivering advanced technologies for our nation's prosperity and security," said Laboratory Director Paul K. Kearns. "Receiving this award from the U.S. Department of Energy represents a significant milestone in their careers, and their recognition is a distinct honor for us at Argonne."

Award recipients were chosen from a large and highly competitive pool of national laboratory- and university-based applicants. Thirty-two of the 2021 recipients come from DOE national laboratories and 51 from U.S. universities.

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Argonne National Laboratory seeks solutions to pressing national problems in science and technology. The nation's first national laboratory, Argonne conducts leading-edge basic and applied scientific research in virtually every scientific discipline. Argonne researchers work closely with researchers from hundreds of companies, universities, and federal, state and municipal agencies to help them solve their specific problems, advance America's scientific leadership and prepare the nation for a better future. With employees from more than 60 nations, Argonne is managed by UChicago Argonne, LLC for the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science.
A trio of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) researchers have each received a 2021 Early Career Research Program award from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in the highly competitive program. Awards to DOE-based researchers total $500,000 per year for five years for salary and research expenses.

PNNL recipients are Marcel D. Baer, senior research scientist, and Nathan R. Tallent, computer scientist, both in the Physical and Computational Sciences Directorate; and Ben Loer, physicist in the National Security Directorate.

Marcel Baer's research will examine the structure and function of proteins to design building blocks for new materials that help address challenges in energy production and storage. His research will exploit the complex functionality of nature's modular material design to improve energy technologies, such as solar cells, batteries, and chemical reactors, that need to operate in harsh environments. Baer's research uses computational approaches based in quantum and molecular mechanics to model nonnatural polymers that are capable of mimicking amino acids to design enzyme-like building blocks. Ultimately, these blocks may be arranged into new materials that can control electron flow on the nanometer scale.

Baer joined PNNL in 2011 as a Linus Pauling Fellow after obtaining a PhD in chemistry from the Ruhr-University in Bochum, Germany.

Nathan Tallent's research aims to improve the flow of data between computers and scientific instruments. Currently, the distance, volume, and frequency of data can create traffic jams that inhibit important tasks. Tallent will develop the methods and analyses necessary for accelerating distributed data-intensive workflows that combine scientific modeling, data analytics, and machine learning. This project will develop techniques to orchestrate data and tasks within these workflows. The resulting tools will generate templates to execute specific workflows based on data analysis and models, coordinating tasks and data layouts to better use the fastest data resources.

Tallent joined PNNL in 2011 as a research scientist after obtaining a PhD in chemistry from Rice University.

Ben Loer will use his award to seek ways to reduce the impact of radiation on superconducting quantum device coherence. Loer was a researcher on a multidisciplinary research team that recently showed that radiation from natural sources in the environment can limit the performance of superconducting quantum bits, known as qubits. The discovery has implications for the construction and operation of quantum computers, an advanced form of computing. Loer's research will hasten the arrival of full-scale quantum computing and help improve performance of future entangled quantum sensors.

Loer joined PNNL in 2016 after obtaining a PhD in physics from Princeton University.

The Early Career Research Program is managed by DOE's Office of Science and awards research grants to young scientists and engineers at U.S. universities and national laboratories. The grants are designed to support exceptional researchers during the crucial early years of their careers and help advance discovery in fundamental sciences.

"Maintaining our nation's braintrust of world-class scientists and researchers is one of DOE's top priorities--and that means we need to give them the resources they need to succeed early on in their careers," said Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. "These awardees show exceptional potential to help us tackle America's toughest challenges and secure our economic competitiveness for decades to come."

This year's selections support 83 scientists, receiving a total of $100 million. The awardees represent 11 DOE National Laboratories and 41 universities in 32 states.

To be eligible, a researcher must be a full-time employee at a DOE national laboratory or an untenured, tenure-track assistant or associate professor at a U.S. academic institution. The applicant must also have received a PhD within the past 10 years.

Research topics are required to fall within one of the DOE Office of Science's eight major program offices: Advanced Scientific Computing Research, Basic Energy Sciences, Biological and Environmental Research, Fusion Energy Sciences, High Energy Physics, Nuclear Physics, Isotope R&D and Production, and Accelerator R&D and Production.

The selection of Baer, Loer, and Tallent brings the total number of PNNL early career recipients to 23 since the program's inception in 2010.

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Washington, D.C. -- Global Fishing Watch has launched an innovative technology portal to help strengthen management of marine protected areas (MPAs) and other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs). The portal hosts diverse datasets and analysis tools to support marine spatial planning and ocean stewardship. Founded by philanthropist and ocean advocate, Dona Bertarelli, the technology aims to revolutionize our ability to dynamically monitor and conserve marine ecosystems.

The United Nations set a target of protecting 10 percent of the world's ocean by 2020. Today, less than 8 percent of the ocean is safeguarded through MPAs or OECMs, with less than 3 percent covered by fully or highly-protected areas. Despite progress in recent years, a lack of open, timely and user-friendly data has impeded the design and management of MPAs. Global Fishing Watch Marine Manager aims to help solve this problem by combining and visualizing near real-time, dynamic data on ocean conditions and human activities and their impacts.

"Marine protected areas are increasingly being recognized as a tool to restore ocean health, combat climate change and support a sustainable and regenerative blue economic recovery," said Dona Bertarelli, United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Special Adviser for the Blue Economy and co-chair of the Bertarelli Foundation. "Realizing their potential requires urgent action to achieve the goal of protecting at least 30 percent of the ocean by 2030, through the creation of marine protected areas, and effective management on the water. Global Fishing Watch Marine Manager is part of the solution to improve ocean protection and achieve international conservation goals."

Global Fishing Watch Marine Manager has launched ahead of the opening conference for the Decade of Ocean Science, a United Nations initiative to bolster scientific research and innovative technologies to support the sustainable development of our ocean.

"Global Fishing Watch is tapping the technology revolution to empower sustainable management of marine ecosystems. Our marine manager portal puts scientific information at the fingertips of managers and researchers, with the tools necessary to rapidly analyze data and monitor vast ocean areas," said Tony Long, CEO of Global Fishing Watch.

MPAs and OECMs are essential tools for building resilience to rising sea surface temperatures and ocean acidification, and they help create safe havens for biodiversity and fish stocks to replenish. But robust and science-based management is needed to fully realize their vital contribution.

The portal allows marine managers and researchers to monitor vessels involved in commercial fishing and other activities, such as vessels involved in tourism, oil drilling and shipping. Vessel information can be overlaid with environmental datasets such as salinity and sea surface temperature to understand climate change impacts over time.

"Protecting our oceans is a global task that requires global action. As a leader in marine conservation, Canada is proud to support the Global Fishing Watch's marine manager portal. Their world-class technology will monitor marine protected areas and advance scientific research, contributing to the overall health of our oceans and helping us to protect 30 percent of the ocean by 2030," said The Honourable Bernadette Jordan, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard.

Inaugural partners using the portal include management authorities responsible for the iconic Galapagos Islands--one of the most biologically diverse MPAs in the world--and the globally-significant Ascension Island MPA--a protected area that has never had considerable fishing activity. Important marine areas for Guyana and the islands of Tristan da Cunha--located in the south Atlantic Ocean--and Niue--in the South Pacific--are also included in the launch of the portal. More locations are set to join as the portal's development continues.

"Global Fishing Watch's marine manager portal enables us to harness the power of big data to monitor, understand and manage the entire 170,000 square miles of Ascension Island's marine protected area - one of the most remote areas of the ocean," said Diane Baum, director of conservation and fisheries, Ascension Island Government.

Global Fishing Watch acknowledges the founding vision and partnership from Dona Bertarelli, along with funding support from Fisheries and Oceans Canada, The Pew Charitable Trusts, the National Philanthropic Trust and Bloomberg Philanthropies' Vibrant Oceans Initiative.

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For further information:

Sarah Bladen

Director, Communications and International Affairs

Global Fishing Watch

sarah@globalfishingwatch.org

Note to the Editor:

The portal can be accessed (from May 27) at: https:/ / globalfishingwatch. org/ marine-manager

Global Fishing Watch Marine Manager is a freely available, innovative technology portal, founded by Dona Bertarelli. It provides near real-time, dynamic, and interactive data on ocean conditions, biology, and human-use activity to support marine spatial planning, marine protected area design and management, and scientific research.

Global Fishing Watch (GFW) is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the sustainability of our ocean through increased transparency of human activity at sea. By creating and publicly sharing map visualizations, data and analysis tools, GFW enables scientific research and drives a transformation in how we manage our ocean. globalfishingwatch.org

Dona Bertarelli is committed to securing ecologically significant and effective marine protected areas, and the responsible and regenerative use of the ocean, while preserving the health of its ecosystems.
Threads of superheated gas and magnetic fields are weaving a tapestry of energy at the center of the Milky Way galaxy. A new image of this new cosmic masterpiece was made using a giant mosaic of data from NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory and the MeerKAT radio telescope in South Africa.

The new panorama of the Galactic Center builds on previous surveys from Chandra and other telescopes. This latest version expands Chandra's high-energy view farther above and below the plane of the Galaxy - that is, the disk where most of the Galaxy's stars reside - than previous imaging campaigns. In the image featured in our main graphic, X-rays from Chandra are orange, green, blue and purple, showing different X-ray energies, and the radio data from MeerKAT are shown in lilac and gray. The main features in the image are shown in a labeled version.

One thread is particularly intriguing because it has X-ray and radio emission intertwined. It points perpendicular to the plane of the galaxy and is about 20 light-years long but only one-hundredth that size in width.

A new study of the X-ray and radio properties of this thread by Q. Daniel Wang of the University of Massachusetts at Amherst suggests these features are bound together by thin strips of magnetic fields. This is similar to what was observed in a previously studied thread. (Both threads are labeled in the image. The newly studied one is in the lower left and is much farther away from the plane of the Galaxy.) Such strips may have formed when magnetic fields aligned in different directions, collided, and became twisted around each other in a process called magnetic reconnection. This is similar to the phenomenon that drives energetic particles away from the Sun and is responsible for the space weather that sometimes affects Earth.

A detailed study of these threads teaches us more about the Galactic space weather astronomers have witnessed throughout the region. This weather is driven by volatile phenomena such as supernova explosions, close-quartered stars blowing off hot gas, and outbursts of matter from regions near Sagittarius A*, our Galaxy's supermassive black hole.

In addition to the threads, the new panorama reveals other wonders in the Galactic Center. For example, Wang's paper reports large plumes of hot gas, which extend for about 700 light-years above and below the plane of the galaxy, seen here in greater detail than ever before. (They are much smaller than the Fermi Bubbles which extend for about 25,000 light-years above and below the plane of the galaxy.) These plumes may represent galactic-scale outflows, analogous to the particles driven away from the Sun. The gas is likely heated by supernova explosions and many recent magnetic reconnections occurring near the center of the galaxy. Such reconnection events in the Galaxy are normally not sufficiently energetic to be detected in X-rays, except for the most energetic ones at the center of the Galaxy, where the interstellar magnetic field is much stronger.

Magnetic reconnection events may play a major role in heating the gas existing between stars (the interstellar medium). This process may also be responsible for accelerating particles to produce cosmic rays like those observed on Earth and driving turbulence in the interstellar medium that triggers new generations of star birth.

The image shows that the magnetic threads tend to occur at the outer boundaries of the large plumes of hot gas. This suggests that the gas in the plumes is driving magnetic fields that collide to create the threads.

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The paper by Wang describing these results appears in the June issue of the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, and a preprint is available online. NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center manages the Chandra program. The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory's Chandra X-ray Center controls science from Cambridge, Massachusetts, and flight operations from Burlington, Massachusetts.
Different from small molecules, polymer will fold into lamellar crystals during crystallization and further assemble into lamellar stacks.

Synchrotron Small-Angle X-Ray Scattering (SAXS) is an important tool to characterize such nanoscale structure and understand polymer crystallization. However, its scattering mechanism in semi-crystalline polymers is not completely elucidated yet.

Recently, a research group led by Prof. TIAN Xingyou from Institute of Solid State Physics, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science (HFIPS), proposed a complete set of new methods to characterize polymer lamellar crystals using SAXS.

"We've been working on this novel models for four years, from theory to application" said LI Xiangyang from HFIPS.

In 2019, the researchers first found that the existence of evanescent wave-induced scattering in transmission SAXS was possible. Moreover, the evanescent wave-induced scattering was much stronger than the scattering induced directly by incident X-ray, and the scattering of interfacial electrons within was the main origin of SAXS signal.

Then they started to try the approaches to obtain lamellar thickness, long period and lateral size. "Based on new SAXS image, we isolated the evanescent wave-induced scattering from the real scattering and reduced the influence of the scattering of bulk electrons, form factor and Porod scattering, obtaining the information on lamellar thickness and long period," said LI.

It was assumed that some residual crystals existed in the structured melt, whose lateral size is larger than critical nucleation size. However, it is hard to be testified due to the difficulty in characterization. With the new methodologies, the researchers characterized residual crystals, demonstrating previous conjecture.

This work is supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

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Pledge affirms commitment towards developing sustainable practices and is underpinned by IOP Publishing's new Sustainability Collection of SDG-related content

IOP Publishing (IOPP) has become a signatory of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Publishers Compact, a pledge which sees publishers working together to achieve the SDGs by 2030.

Launched in October 2020 in collaboration with the International Publishers Association, the SDG Publishers Compact is an initiative that aims to advance the implementation of SDGs through 10 action points. Signatories aspire to develop sustainable practices and act as champions of the SDGs during the Decade of Action (2020-2030), publishing books and journals that will help inform, develop, and inspire action in that direction.

IOPP has a long-standing commitment to creating a more sustainable, diverse and equitable future for the world and is dedicated to influencing real change, both as a publisher and an employer.

Through its series of established environmental journals, IOPP publishes research that addresses some of the world's most critical issues and delivers solutions for sustainability development in line with the SDGs. The launch of its Sustainability Collection brings together SDG-related content published by IOPP into a central place, with an intuitive search that filters by SDG and by year.

The adoption of double-anonymous peer review across all IOPP owned journals is just one example of the society publisher's pioneering approach to tackling the significant gender, racial and geographical under-representation in the scholarly publishing process. It remains focused on improving the diversity of its reviewers, authors editorial boards and in the spirit of transparency and accountability, displays the gender and selected geographical representation of its accepted authors and invited reviewers on its journal homepages. It is a member of the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA) which supports more equitable, inclusive approaches to research evaluation and Research4Life which helps to boost access to scientific research in low-income countries.

Antonia Seymour, chief executive at IOP Publishing said: "We take our responsibility towards making a positive difference to society very seriously. Though we've made progress, one thing is very clear - collaboration will be key if we want to continue to do so. Collectively, scientific publishers and the communities we serve can make a significant contribution towards achieving the promise of the 2030 agenda for sustainable development. I'm optimistic about the change we'll see working together."

Liz Martin, head of production, and sustainability lead at IOP Publishing said: "From initiatives such as our Sustainability Collection, which make it easier to find all the SDG related knowledge that we publish, through to being transparent about the progress we are making in reducing the environmental impacts of our business, we will continue do everything we can to change the world's trajectory."

Along with the other signatories of the SDG Publisher Compact, IOPP commits to:

1. Stating sustainability policies and targets on the IOPP website, including adherence to this Compact; incorporating SDGs and their targets as appropriate. 2. Actively promoting and acquiring content that advocates for themes represented by the SDGs, such as equality, sustainability, justice and safeguarding and strengthening the environment. 3. Annually reporting on progress towards achieving SDGs, sharing data and contributing to benchmarking activities, helping to share best practices and identify gaps that still need to be addressed. 4. Nominating a person who will promote SDG progress, acting as a point of contact and coordinating the SDG themes throughout the organization. 5. Raising awareness and promoting the SDGs among staff to increase awareness of SDG-related policies and goals and encouraging projects that will help achieve the SDGs by 2030. 6. Raising awareness and promoting the SDGs among suppliers, to advocate for SDGs and to collaborate on areas that need innovative actions and solutions. 7. Becoming an advocate to customers and stakeholders by promoting and actively communicating about the SDG agenda through marketing, websites, promotions and projects. 8. Collaborating across cities, countries and continents with other signatories and organisations to develop, localise and scale projects that will advance progress on the SDGs individually or through their Publishing Association. 9. Dedicating budget and other resources towards accelerating progress for SDG-dedicated projects and promoting SDG principles. 10. Taking action on at least one SDG goal, either as an individual publisher or through the national publishing association and sharing progress annually.

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Life expectancy of tapeworm-infected worker ants is significantly higher than that of their uninfected nest-mates and resembles that of ant queens

Ant workers that are infected with a tapeworm live much longer than their uninfected nest-mates. Parasitic infections are usually harmful to their hosts, but there are some exceptions. According to the results of a multi-year scientific study, ants of the species Temnothorax nylanderi show exceptionally high survival rates when infected with a tapeworm. "The lifespan of the infected ants is significantly prolonged. According to our observations, such workers have a survival rate similar to that of queens," said Professor Susanne Foitzik of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU), leader of the study. Queens of this species can live for up to 20 years, while female workers rarely reach the age of two. Among possible explanations for this extended lifespan are the change in the physiology of infected ants caused by the parasites and the fact that infected workers are better supplied with food.

Social care in the nest linked to longer life

In the case of ants, there is a stark divergence in lifespan between female castes. Many ant queens can survive for several decades. They spend almost all their lives safely in the nest where they are cared for by the workers, their daughters. In contrast, ant workers live for only a few weeks or months or, in rare cases, a few years. The infertile workers carry out all tasks in the nest, starting in brood care and progressing to riskier activities outside the colony as they grow older, such as foraging for food. The high life expectancy of queens is due to their low mortality rate, which is attributable to the high levels of social care they receive, their safe environment, and the activation of physiological repair mechanisms.

These factors may also contribute to the extremely high survival rates of Temnothorax-nylanderi workers infected with a tapeworm. This species of ant is common in Central Europe and forms small colonies on the forest floor, inside acorns or wooden branches. The insects are relatively small, with a body length of just two to three millimeters. They serve as an intermediate host for the tapeworm Anomotaenia brevis, whereby a single ant can be infected by up to 70 parasitic larvae. The parasites survive in the hemolymph, the body fluid of insects. Their complex life cycle is completed once they have been ingested by a woodpecker that feeds on the ants.

The research team led by Professor Susanne Foitzik looked at the long-term consequences of the parasitic infection by collecting ant colonies from forests around Mainz and observing them in the laboratory. "We tracked the survival rate of the workers and queens in both infected and uninfected ant colonies over three years, until more than 95 percent of the uninfected workers had died," explained Foitzik. At that point, over half of the infected workers were still alive - exhibiting a survival rate practically identical to that of the long-lived queens. "It is quite extraordinary that a parasite can trigger such a positive change in its host. This lifespan extension is very unusual," emphasized the JGU-based evolutionary biologist.

Infected workers differ in appearance, behavior, and physiology

The infected ants are easily distinguished from their brown nest-mates due to their lighter, yellow color, an effect that results from their cuticle being less pigmented. They are also less active and receive enhanced care from other workers in the nest. "The infected insects get more attention and are fed, cleaned, and looked after better. They even benefit from slightly more care than the nest's queen," explained Professor Susanne Foitzik. The tests also revealed that infected ants have metabolic rates and lipid levels similar to those of younger ants. It would seem that these ants remain in a permanent juvenile stage as a result of the infection. This is likely down to both the tapeworm larvae altering the expression of ant genes that affect aging and to the parasites' release of proteins containing antioxidants into the ants' hemolymph.

Even though the mystery of their long life has not yet been fully resolved, the behavior of the infected ants themselves does not seem to be the decisive factor. The research team, which included scientists from the Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing and Tel Aviv University, found no evidence that the insects actively beg for better care. However, chemical signals on the cuticle of infected ants were found to elicit more attention of their nest-mates. "The infected insects live a life of luxury, but the fact that they receive more social care cannot alone account for their prolonged lifespan," concluded Foitzik. The scientists will undertake further research in order to identify the factors, particularly on the molecular and epigenetic level, behind the infected workers death-defying attributes.

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Related links:

https:/ / www. blogs. uni-mainz. de/ fb10-evolutionary-biology/ research-groups/ group-foitzik/ - Evolution and Behavioral Ecology of Ants group at the JGU Institute of Organismic and Molecular Evolution (IOME)

Read more:

https:/ / www. uni-mainz. de/ presse/ aktuell/ 13410_ENG_HTML. php - press release "Ant responses to social isolation resemble those of humans" (7 April 2021) ;

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In recent years, Chung struggled to find psychiatrists for her patients. In one tragic case, a 14-year-old boy with bipolar disorder came to her practice looking for medication refills. Because they were complicated prescriptions she didnt normally handle, she booked him an appointment with a child psychiatrist. But while waiting for the appointment, he ran out of his medication. With the disease not under control, he shot and killed someone and ended up in jail, Chung said.
Media Contact: Waun'Shae Blount, wblount1@jhmi.edu

The loss of smell, a condition known as anosmia, can severely impact a person's quality of life, making it extremely difficult to taste foods, detect airborne hazards in the environment and carry out other functions dependent on the sense. Those with anosmia may experience weight concerns, decreased social interaction, depression and general anxiety. In some cases, loss of smell has been linked to death in older adults. Now, Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers have studied one of the known causes of anosmia -- long-term exposure to air pollution -- to better understand how it can rob someone of the ability to smell and taste.

The findings appeared May 27, 2021, in JAMA Network Open.

"We included participants from a variety of areas in our study; however, most lived in urban areas where pollution levels are highest," says lead author Murugappan "Murray" Ramanathan, M.D., rhinologist and associate professor of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. "We wanted to assess how their exposure to PM2.5 air pollution -- inhalable, particulate matter less than 2.5 micrometers in size or about 30 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair -- might cause them to lose their sense of smell."

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), PM2.5 (the PM stands for "particulate matter") is the term for a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air. Depending on location, PM2.5 can consist of many materials, incuding dust, dirt, soot, smoke, organic compounds and metals. It has been linked to cardiovascular disease, lung cancer, decline in cognitive thinking ability, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma and premature death. Previous research has associated PM2.5 as a likely culprit in loss of smell -- a connection that Ramanathan and his team decided to explore in greater detail.

In their study, the researchers looked at 2,690 people, age 18 and older, who were evaluated by otolaryngologists between January 2013 and December 2016. Of these, 538 were diagnosed with anosmia, with an average age of 54 and with men making up the majority (339 or 63%).

Air pollution data for the study came from the EPA's Air Quality System. The researchers fed the data into a complex computer model -- incorporating meteorological and satellite-based environmental measurements, land-use information and simulations of airborne chemical movement -- to estimate the PM2.5 pollution levels within the participants' residential ZIP codes. The model was created by Zhenyu Zhang, a Johns Hopkins Medicine otolaryngology postdoctoral fellow.

The researchers found long-term airborne exposure to PM2.5 increases the risk of losing one's smell by nearly twice (a 1.6- to 1.7-fold increase). They believe this may occur because the location of the olfactory nerve -- which contains the sensory nerve fibers relating to the sense of smell -- places it directly in the path of inhaled PM2.5 materials.

"Based on this result, we feel that long-term exposure to high levels of PM2.5 represents a common risk factor for the loss of sense of smell, especially in vulnerable populations such as older people -- but also one that is potentially modifiable if sources of PM2.5 components can be better controlled," says Ramanathan.

Next, the researchers plan to study socioeconomic factors among patients with anosmia to determine if they impact the chances of exposure to PM2.5 air pollution. They also hope to evaluate other air pollution components that may contribute to loss of smell, such as ozone.

Ramanathan is available for interviews.

Media Contact: Michel Morris, melben1@jhmi.edu

Unintentional overdoses are the leading cause of death for Americans under 50, with many people knowing at least one person who has struggled with drug dependence. In a recent study, Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers found that effective treatments for opioid addiction are underutilized and offer a potential solution to the problem -- increasing access to medical help through a quality improvement project.

The study, published May 18, 2021, in the Journal of Hospital Medicine, details how a team led by Ashish Thakrar, an addiction medicine fellow at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, propose a simple, yet effective awareness and educational program. The protocol increases the use of evidence-based medication -- that is, therapeutic drugs shown by scientific evidence to be useful at treating opioid dependence. There are currently only three evidence-based medications to treat opioid dependence, and Thakrar says they are all underutilized. Thakrar's team focused on increasing the use of one of these drugs -- buprenorphine -- in patients admitted to The Johns Hopkins Hospital, many with substance use-related issues.

Buprenorphine is a drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat opioid dependence. Experts say that buprenorphine -- which also is an opioid -- can be prescribed alone or as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling and other behavioral therapies to provide patients with a whole-person approach.

"Changing practice is hard," Thakrar says. "There are dozens of well-conducted prospective and retrospective studies showing that buprenorphine works. It reduces mortality by 50%, reduces the rate at which patients use opioids, improves the patient's quality of life and helps retain patients in other kinds of medical and dependence care."

Before the project was implemented for the study, Thakrar says only 10% of eligible patients received approved medications for treating opioid dependence. After the project, discharge prescriptions more than doubled to 24%. Thakrar says the increase was due to the use of a one-page, easy-to-use protocol posted in common areas of the hospital; the presentation of the protocol at a conference with a successful patient case study; and the establishment of a novel, resident-led buprenorphine bridge team.

The bridge team consists of a group of residents and attendees who are legally permitted to prescribe buprenorphine prescriptions. This facilitates the use of the drug for treating opioid dependence -- because while any provider can administer it within a hospital, prescriptions require a special waiver from the federal Drug Enforcement Administration.

As part of the quality improvement project tested during the study, 140 internal medicine residents and 16 combined medicine-pediatrics residents received one hour of formal education about opioid use disorder. Additionally, 28 residents who were specializing in urban health primary care spent one month in a clinical rotation focused on dependence medicine. During that rotation, they completed the eight-hour training required to receive the DEA waiver. The training included guidance on selecting patients, shared decision-making around treatment, avoiding precipitated withdrawal, dosing buprenorphine and establishing follow-up.

After learning and implementing the protocol, the majority of residents reported feeling more comfortable and more knowledgeable using the buprenorphine treatment.

"Providers want to give good care to patients with opioid dependence, and are eager for tools that can help them do so," says Thakrar. "Many of the limitations for providing the best care are structural and logistical, so we need multidisciplinary approaches that include nurses and social workers. Collaboration is key."

Thakrar says the buprenorphine bridge team continues to be active at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. Since the team was established in 2019, the hospital also has started a full dependence medicine consult service.

"I hope that other hospitals can see that there are protocols that can improve the quality of care," Thakrar says. "Small changes can make a big difference for patients with opioid dependence."

Thakrar is available for interviews.

Media Contact: Brian Waters, bwaters3@jhmi.edu

In a global survey of nearly 6,000 cardiologists conducted by Johns Hopkins Medicine and the American College of Cardiology, researchers found that as many as 44% of those polled report experiencing a hostile work environment (HWE) at some point in their careers. Based on this finding and others reported in a recent study assessing the survey responses, the researchers suggest that HWE -- characterized by emotional harassment, discrimination, sexual harassment or any combination of the three -- has an adverse effect on professional and patient interactions and relationships, raises concerns about the well-being of those impacted and may threaten the quality of patient care provided.

The study was published May 10, 2021, in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

"Unfortunately, we discovered that the problem of HWE is very widespread, with nearly half of the world's cardiologists experiencing some form of it at one time or another," says lead study author Garima Sharma, M.D., assistant professor of medicine at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. "We found HWE in cardiology prevalent across regions, races and ethnicities, and both sexes and all gender identifications."

The 50-item survey in the study was given between September and October 2019 to 5,931 cardiologists in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, the Middle East, Oceania, and North, Central and South America. Participants were queried about their demographics, practice environment, academic rank and experiences with discrimination and harassment. Seventy-seven percent of the respondents were men, 54% were white (followed by 17% Asians, 17% Hispanics and 3% Blacks), 73% were age 54 or older and 75% were married.

Cardiologists from the European Union made up the biggest block of respondents (32%), followed by cardiologists from South America (18%); the Middle East, Eastern Europe and Asia (all 9%); Africa (8%); North America (7%); Central America (6%) and Oceania (2%).

"Based on the responses from the survey, we found incidences of HWE were most commonly reported by women [68%], Blacks [53%] and North Americans [54%]," says Roger Blumenthal, M.D., director of the Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease and professor of medicine at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. "Gender was the most frequent cause of discrimination [44%], followed by age [37%], race [24%], religion [15%] and sexual orientation [5%]."

Seventy-five percent of survey respondents said HWE adversely affected professional activities with colleagues, while 53% reported a negative impact on relationships with their patients.

Looking at each subset of HWE studied, Sharma says that emotional harassment was experienced by nearly one-third of cardiologists, 30% reported at least one form of discrimination, and women endured more incidences of sexual harassment -- with 44% stating they had experienced multiple types.

"These data come at a crucial time when harassment and the culture of discrimination in medicine are being openly challenged," the study states. "These findings support the need to improve the culture within medicine greatly and raise a call to action to address harassment and discrimination."

Sharma and Blumenthal are available for interviews.

Media Contact: Michael E. Newman, mnewma25@jhmi.edu

The dictionary defines stewardship as "the job of properly and responsibly taking care of things so that they can be used effectively." Nowhere is that concept -- and the responsibility attached to it -- taken more seriously than in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), especially when it involves stewarding the appropriate use of antibiotics. Now, Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers hope to make that high-value health care task simpler and more effective with a new bedside tool that helps clinicians better determine when to test for bacteria in endotracheal tubes being used for critically ill pediatric patients.

The findings were reported in the May 2021 issue of the journal Pediatrics.

To diagnose potentially serious bacterial respiratory infections in a PICU patient receiving invasive mechanical ventilation with an endotracheal tube, physicians and nurses often obtain secretions from inside the tube (known as an endotracheal aspirate) and culture it in the laboratory. The problem with these endotracheal aspirate cultures (EACs) is they may lead to a case of mistaken identity that could do the patient more harm than good, says study lead author Anna Sick-Samuels, M.D., M.P.H., a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Johns Hopkins Children's Center and assistant professor of pediatrics at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

"The human respiratory tract is far from a sterile environment, so bacteria cultured from aspirated samples may just be part of the body's normal microflora and not be causing an infection that needs antibiotics," says Sick-Samuels. "However, the detection of any bacteria in these cultures is often misinterpreted as a sign of a ventilator-associated infection, which then may result in unnecessary -- and potentially harmful -- antibiotic treatment."

To address the problem, Sick-Samuels and her colleagues developed a clinical decision support algorithm for use in the PICU. The algorithm is a simple flow chart of progressively more definitive, "yes or no" criteria by which clinicians can make an informed, rather than speculative, decision about whether or not an EAC is needed.

"The algorithm standardizes the thought process and makes the clinician carefully consider whether or not to call for an EAC, which in turn, prevents a 'knee-jerk' response to bacteria and the inappropriate use of antibiotics," says Sick-Samuels. "It also helps reduce the problem of clinicians ordering repeated EACs from the same patient, even though the same bacteria typically grow again in repeated cultures."

For a PICU patient with a tracheostomy (a surgically created airway directly into the trachea) or an endotracheal tube in place for more than 48 hours, Sick-Samuels explains that the algorithm asks clinicians to consider obtaining an EAC only if:

The patient has an increased quantity of secretions in the tracheostomy or endotracheal tube over time.

There is at least one additional supporting sign of infection, such as fever greater than 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit), an increase in white blood cell counts or a chest X-ray that indicates a developing pneumonia.

The patient has not had another EAC within the past 3 days.

To test the effectiveness of their algorithm, Sick-Samuels and her research team put it to work as part of a 12-month quality improvement program at the Children's Center PICU. In the year before the tool was implemented, the researchers documented 557 EACs obtained over 5,092 days of patients on mechanical ventilation (tracheostomy or endotracheal tube). This was equivalent to 10.9 EACs for every 100 ventilator-days.

In the year after the algorithm became part of the regular clinical practice at the Children's Center PICU, the number of EACs dropped to 234 over 3,654 ventilator-days, or 6.5 per 100 ventilator-days -- a 40% reduction. The researchers say the use of the algorithm and the resulting sustained decline in EACs did not change the number of deaths, readmissions or lengths of stay for patients in the PICU. They also estimate that the direct cost savings from obtaining fewer EACs would be approximately $26,000 per year.

What makes this stewardship different from other programs seeking to prevent the inappropriate use or overuse of antibiotics, says Sick-Samuels, is that the "decision tree" process goes to work earlier in the thought process before antibiotics might be started.

"The algorithm makes the early decision for or against microbiological testing the pivotal point, not the choice of whether or not to prescribe antibiotics," she says. "At JHCC, it really did make our staff more mindful and aware of their actions, and it led to a shift in practice that was sustained even through the COVID-19 pandemic."

Next, the researchers plan to introduce diagnostic stewardship of EACs at 15 pediatric centers across the United States, validate its effectiveness and show that the stewardship program can be adapted for use in other PICUs. They also hope their efforts will serve as a model for EAC decision-making tools that can be used in other clinical settings.

Sick-Samuels is available for interviews.

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Urgent investment in new tools is needed to address major global losses of wheat crops which cost 22 billion per year.

Leading scientific experts are calling for governments around the world to come together and fund a new international research platform, to reduce the impact of major wheat pathogens and improve global food security.

The John Innes Centre is calling for an internationally coordinated approach to deliver a new 'R-Gene Atlas', which would help identify new genetic solutions conferring disease resistance for crops, which could be bred into commercial wheat varieties.

Globally, we lose one fifth of the projected wheat yield annually to pests and pathogens totaling losses of 209 million tonnes, worth 22 billion ($31 billion). The climate emergency has the capacity to bring further disruption to global food supplies, as a changing environment brings new types of pests and diseases and increases their spread.

To minimise these losses, and to reduce reliance on chemical solutions, the team calls for broader use of disease resistance to be found in the genome of wheat and its wild relatives. The aim is to provide long-lasting molecular protection against wheat's major pathogens including wheat rusts, blotch diseases, powdery mildew, and wheat blast.

In 2016 global trade saw the wheat blast fungus, typically isolated to South America, arrive in Bangladesh, where it destroyed 15,000 hectares of wheat, resulting in yield losses of 25-30% and threatening wheat production across South Asia.

Wheat R genes work by recognising corresponding molecules in the pathogen called effectors. By identifying the effectors present in pathogen and pest populations, more durable combinations or "stacks" of R genes could be designed.

The R-gene atlas will be a free online portal containing this genetic information and enabling breeders to design gene stacks using computer modelling before starting their breeding in the field.

It will enable users to design molecular markers that could be used to find out what resistance genes they already have in their breeding programme or wheat populations.

The idea builds upon the recent surge in genomic resources available to researchers in wheat, facilitated by advancements in sequencing technologies and bioinformatics. In the past few years, researchers at the John Innes Centre and The Sainsbury Laboratory have rapidly identified and cloned resistance genes in wheat and its wild relatives using technologies such as AgRenSeq, MutRenSeq and MutChromSeq.

The new proposal details how the molecular components involved in disease resistance - R genes and effectors - could be captured from both the host and pathogen. Whole genome sequencing would be carried out on diversity panels of wheat, its progenitors and domesticated and wild relatives.

Association genetics, a method of seeking useful genetic variation, could then be used to look for correlations between the host genotype and disease resistance or susceptibility and the genes responsible for these traits could be identified. The researchers calculate it would cost around 41 million ($58.6 million) to establish the new platform at the required scale. Costed, detailed proposals for the R-Gene Atlas are set out in a new article in Molecular Plant.

This would include sequencing diversity panels of the pathogens and 10 host species of wheat, as well as funding 75 scientists across the world to carry out the work.

This, they suggest, could be funded by contributions of 2 million ($2.9 million) per G20 country spread over five years - a minor investment considering the current financial losses across the world to wheat diseases. This extensively collaborative funding model would spread the risk on a project which would have global reward.

"Compared to the scale of the problem in yield losses to pests and pathogens, this represents excellent value for money" says first author Amber Hafeez. "It is unsustainable to continue feeding 20 per cent of our wheat production to pathogens. Our enterprise applies cutting edge science to a global challenge that is increasing due to the climate emergency."

The proposal involves bringing together an international consortium to allow the project to draw upon existing expertise and resources.

"A lot of the pieces of the puzzle already exist, the idea is to bring them together to make sure we don't duplicate efforts," says Dr Brande Wulff, corresponding author of the article. "We see it as a centrally coordinated model distributed around different countries, using existing capacity.

"Current projections suggest there will be 2.1 billion more people to feed by 2050 and developing disease-resistant crops will be a key part of sustainably feeding us all. We're determined to develop new ways to increase our genetic understanding and deploy it for the benefit of sustainable agriculture, but we cannot do this without investment."

"We are urging the G20 governments to invest in the consortium, which will bring disease resistance genes from lab to field at a scale and speed needed to deal with the current crisis."

The idea has been trialed earlier this year and has drawn an enthusiastic response from the international wheat research community. Amber Hafeez said : "We have been delighted with the initial enthusiastic response to our proposals - many research groups and collaborators have welcomed the idea and we feel this confirms our belief that the time is right for this proposal."

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The great application prospect in biology, medicine, optogenetics, photovoltaics and sustainability has enabled lanthanide ions-doped upconversion nanoparticles to attract widespread attention which derives mainly from their superior anti-Stokes spectroscopic property. However, the relatively low upconversion efficiency remains a major bottleneck on their way of actual applications. Internal OH- impurity is known as one of the main detrimental factors affecting the upconversion efficiency of nanomaterials. Different from surface/ligand related emission quenching which can be effectively diminished by, e.g., core/shell structure, internal OH- is easy to be introduced during synthesis but difficult to be quantified and controlled.

In a new paper published in Light Science & Application, a team of scientists, led by Professor Hong Zhang at van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam and collaborators of Chinese Academy of Sciences and Anhui Normal University, have reported a progress in wide range quantitative adjustment of the internal OH- impurities in NaYF4:Yb/Er upconversion nanocrystals. From spectroscopy study and model simulation, they revealed the exponential relation between upconversion luminescence intensity and the quantity of internal OH- impurities, which is quantitatively attributed to the microscopic interactions between internal OH- and the sensitizers and activators, respectively. The internal OH- involved upconversion dynamical process is interpreted with a vivid concept of "Survivor effect", i.e., the shorter the migration path of an excited state, the larger the possibility of its surviving from OH- induced quenching. The new insights will open new avenues for the construction of highly efficient upconversion materials.

By comparison with standard NaOH/D2O solution, the OH- content inside the upconversion nanoparticles could be quantified from Fourier-Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), where ultra-small nanoparticles were employed to promote the reliability of quantification. These scientists summarize the operation of their quantification approach:

"We utilized 0.1 M DCl (in D2O) instead of HCl (in H2O) to remove all the potential OH- in surface ligands/H2O molecules. Upconversion nanoparticles and DCl were mixed and stirred vigorously until the nanoparticles were completely transferred into the D2O phase. The nanoparticles were centrifuged and re-dispersed in pure D2O twice and finally dispersed in D2O and adjusted to 50 mg mL-1. The content of internal OH- were determined from its absorbance near 3400 cm-1, measured by FTIR."

"The construction of Monte Carlo simulation model for the upconversion luminescence is another highlight of our work, which based on the hypotheses of three-dimensional random wandering of the excited states in the sublattice. Upconversion events resulting from the "collisions" of two or more excited states. The internal OH- effect was added in the simulation that led to higher non-radiative recombination rate of excited states and lower upconversion efficiencies, depending on the OH- content." they added.

"The presented results clarify the role of OH- inside nanoparticles on the quenching of upconversion luminescence which enriches our comprehension towards upconversion mechanism. These results will promote the construction of highly efficient lanthanide -doped upconversion materials." the scientists forecast.

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New Orleans, LA - A review study led by Maria D. Sanchez-Pino, PhD, an assistant research professor in the departments of Interdisciplinary Oncology and Genetics at LSU Health New Orleans' School of Medicine and Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, advances knowledge about the connection between obesity-associated inflammation and cancer. The researchers suggest that inflammatory cells with immunosuppressive properties may act as a critical biological link between obesity and cancer risk, progression, and metastasis. The paper is published in the June 2021 issue of Obesity, available here.

Despite evidence showing that obesity increases the risk of cancer progression, efforts are needed to identify the causal relationship between immunosuppressive cells and the response of immunotherapy in patients with obesity.

The function of myeloid cells is shaped by the metabolic microenvironment. Along with macrophages, myeloid cells with immunosuppressive properties called Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are generated in obesity. One of the major factors associated with the metabolic inflammation of obesity is the expansion of MDSCs. In cancer patients, MDSCs are associated with poor survival and resistance to immunotherapy.

Although there is tremendous cross-talk between inflammation and metabolic/endocrine disturbances that promote tumor growth in obesity, the biological and molecular mechanisms are not completely understood. The researchers reviewed the literature and explain that altered metabolic factors such as lipids, insulin, and leptin in obesity contribute to the activation of immunosuppressive and cancer developing capabilities of myeloid cells.

"Deciphering the molecular mechanisms by which obesity-associated metabolic factors activate or enhance the function of Myeloid-derived Suppressor Cells and immunosuppressive macrophages will allow us to identify biomarkers for prognosis and therapeutic responses," notes Dr. Sanchez-Pino. "It will also lead to the discovery of potential targets for pharmacological therapies that may disrupt the pathophysiologic inflammatory link between obesity and cancer."

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Co-authors include Dr. Augusto Ochoa, Director of the LSU Health New Orleans Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, Dr. Justin Brown of the Pennington Biomedical Research Center and member of the LSU Health New Orleans Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, and Dr. Linda Anne Gilmore of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.

This work was supported by the National Institutes of Health -- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institute of General Medicine Sciences, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Cancer Institute -- Nutrition Obesity Research Center at Pennington Biomedical Research Center, LSU Health New Orleans, and Susan G. Komen Foundation.
The technology using DNA-based genealogy that solved a double murder in Linkoping opens completely new possibilities in investigating serious crime. LiU researchers are now involved in spreading new knowledge about the technology, which brings hope to police forces and has aroused major international interest.

"We want to tell others about the problems that we faced when working with this pilot case, and how we dealt with them. We can prevent others reinventing the wheel, and make sure that the knowledge available is extended and improved", says Andreas Tillmar.

He is forensic geneticist at the National Board of Forensic Medicine, and adjunct senior lecturer in the Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences at Linkoping University. His research is focussed on developing methods to obtain genetic information from low-quality DNA samples, such that they give sufficient information, for example, to allow searches in genealogical databases. His methods contributed to the murders in Linkoping in 2004 being solved.

Together with colleagues from the Swedish Police Authority and the National Forensic Centre, among others, Andreas Tillmar has published an article in the prestigious scientific journal Forensic Science International: Genetics. The article is a case study of a double murder in October 2004, in which an eight-year-old boy and a 56-year-old woman were stabbed to death. The case was finally solved in June 2020.

The Police Authority conducted a legal inquiry early in 2019 which concluded that the double murder was to be used as a pilot case to test the DNA-based genealogy method. After this, it took 1.5 years of collaboration between researchers and authorities before the murderer could be arrested. The successful resolution was a result of the police being able to use commercial genealogy databases and in this way gain access to a significantly larger selection of people to search.

The article describes the technical, legal and ethical aspects that it was necessary to solve during the work, and how the joint work finally gave a solution.

When the Swedish pilot case started in 2019, the technology of DNA-based genealogical research had been used only to a very limited extent. The first known case, from 2018, had resulted in a serial killer known as the Golden State killer being arrested and convicted in the US.

"This case aroused much attention in the media, but the knowledge behind the arrest was never published, since the technology had been managed by a private company. It wanted to keep the knowledge to itself for commercial reasons. It's different in our case: we have knowledge that is in strong demand and we want to spread it", says Andreas Tillmar.

The article describes not only the painstaking work that resulted in improved DNA-based methods: it also gives examples of legal and ethical questions.

The legal questions concern such matters as the current legislation on personal privacy. It is not obvious that detectives are to be able to use genetic information from commercial DNA-based genealogy databases. "It's a grey area. Technology is often one step ahead of the law."

Ethical dilemmas that arise with this type of DNA analysis include the fact that the police obtain the DNA information of individuals and in this way insight into their private lives. This includes kinship relationships, and their risk of developing certain genetic diseases.

"Thus, there is a risk of a conflict between that two important principles: the right of the individual to privacy against the aspiration of society to solve serious crime", says Andreas Tillmar.

He points out that the solution to the double murder has aroused considerable international interest.

"As far as we know, we are the first outside the US to use the technology. We hope that others can benefit from our work, and that we can improve these DNA-based methods through, for example, international collaboration," says Andreas Tillmar.

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The article: "Getting the conclusive lead with investigative genetic genealogy - A successful case study of a 16 year old double murder in Sweden", Andreas Tillmar, Siri Aili Fagerholm, January Staaf, Peter Sjolund and Ricky Ansell, (2021), Forensic Science International: Genetics, published online 8 May 2021, doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2021.102525
Nobody likes driving in a blizzard, including autonomous vehicles. To make self-driving cars safer on snowy roads, engineers look at the problem from the car's point of view.

A major challenge for fully autonomous vehicles is navigating bad weather. Snow especially confounds crucial sensor data that helps a vehicle gauge depth, find obstacles and keep on the correct side of the yellow line, assuming it is visible. Averaging more than 200 inches of snow every winter, Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula is the perfect place to push autonomous vehicle tech to its limits. In two papers presented at SPIE Defense + Commercial Sensing 2021, researchers from Michigan Technological University discuss solutions for snowy driving scenarios that could help bring self-driving options to snowy cities like Chicago, Detroit, Minneapolis and Toronto.

Just like the weather at times, autonomy is not a sunny or snowy yes-no designation. Autonomous vehicles cover a spectrum of levels, from cars already on the market with blind spot warnings or braking assistance, to vehicles that can switch in and out of self-driving modes, to others that can navigate entirely on their own. Major automakers and research universities are still tweaking self-driving technology and algorithms. Occasionally accidents occur, either due to a misjudgment by the car's artificial intelligence (AI) or a human driver's misuse of self-driving features.

Humans have sensors, too: our scanning eyes, our sense of balance and movement, and the processing power of our brain help us understand our environment. These seemingly basic inputs allow us to drive in virtually every scenario, even if it is new to us, because human brains are good at generalizing novel experiences. In autonomous vehicles, two cameras mounted on gimbals scan and perceive depth using stereo vision to mimic human vision, while balance and motion can be gauged using an inertial measurement unit. But, computers can only react to scenarios they have encountered before or been programmed to recognize.

Since artificial brains aren't around yet, task-specific artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms must take the wheel -- which means autonomous vehicles must rely on multiple sensors. Fisheye cameras widen the view while other cameras act much like the human eye. Infrared picks up heat signatures. Radar can see through the fog and rain. Light detection and ranging (lidar) pierces through the dark and weaves a neon tapestry of laser beam threads.

"Every sensor has limitations, and every sensor covers another one's back," said Nathir Rawashdeh, assistant professor of computing in Michigan Tech's College of Computing and one of the study's lead researchers. He works on bringing the sensors' data together through an AI process called sensor fusion.

"Sensor fusion uses multiple sensors of different modalities to understand a scene," he said. "You cannot exhaustively program for every detail when the inputs have difficult patterns. That's why we need AI."

Rawashdeh's Michigan Tech collaborators include Nader Abu-Alrub, his doctoral student in electrical and computer engineering, and Jeremy Bos, assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering, along with master's degree students and graduates from Bos' lab: Akhil Kurup, Derek Chopp and Zach Jeffries. Bos explains that lidar, infrared and other sensors on their own are like the hammer in an old adage. "'To a hammer, everything looks like a nail,'" quoted Bos. "Well, if you have a screwdriver and a rivet gun, then you have more options."

Most autonomous sensors and self-driving algorithms are being developed in sunny, clear landscapes. Knowing that the rest of the world is not like Arizona or southern California, Bos's lab began collecting local data in a Michigan Tech autonomous vehicle (safely driven by a human) during heavy snowfall. Rawashdeh's team, notably Abu-Alrub, poured over more than 1,000 frames of lidar, radar and image data from snowy roads in Germany and Norway to start teaching their AI program what snow looks like and how to see past it.

"All snow is not created equal," Bos said, pointing out that the variety of snow makes sensor detection a challenge. Rawashdeh added that pre-processing the data and ensuring accurate labeling is an important step to ensure accuracy and safety: "AI is like a chef -- if you have good ingredients, there will be an excellent meal," he said. "Give the AI learning network dirty sensor data and you'll get a bad result."

Low-quality data is one problem and so is actual dirt. Much like road grime, snow buildup on the sensors is a solvable but bothersome issue. Once the view is clear, autonomous vehicle sensors are still not always in agreement about detecting obstacles. Bos mentioned a great example of discovering a deer while cleaning up locally gathered data. Lidar said that blob was nothing (30% chance of an obstacle), the camera saw it like a sleepy human at the wheel (50% chance), and the infrared sensor shouted WHOA (90% sure that is a deer).

Getting the sensors and their risk assessments to talk and learn from each other is like the Indian parable of three blind men who find an elephant: each touches a different part of the elephant -- the creature's ear, trunk and leg -- and comes to a different conclusion about what kind of animal it is. Using sensor fusion, Rawashdeh and Bos want autonomous sensors to collectively figure out the answer -- be it elephant, deer or snowbank. As Bos puts it, "Rather than strictly voting, by using sensor fusion we will come up with a new estimate."

While navigating a Keweenaw blizzard is a ways out for autonomous vehicles, their sensors can get better at learning about bad weather and, with advances like sensor fusion, will be able to drive safely on snowy roads one day.

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Neuroscientists at Synapsy have identified the mechanism behind the antidepressant effect of lactate, a molecule produced by the body during exercise. Its key features - NADH and neurogenesis - will pave the way for new treatment possibilities.

Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Neuroscientists from Synapsy - the Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research into Mental Illness - based at Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and Lausanne University (UNIL) have recently demonstrated that lactate, a molecule produced by the body during exercise, has an antidepressant effect in mice. Lactate is best known for the pivotal role it plays in the nutrition of neurons inside the brain. Yet it can also counter the inhibition of the survival and proliferation of new neurons, a loss seen in patients suffering from depression and in stressed animal. Furthermore, the research team pinpointed NADH as a vital component in the mechanism: this is a molecule with antioxidant properties that is derived from the metabolism of lactate. The findings, published in the scientific journal Molecular Psychiatry, provide a better understanding of the physiological mechanisms that underpin physical activity, which should lead to an improvement in the way depression is treated in the future.

WHO recognises depression - which affects nearly 264 million people - as the leading cause of disability worldwide. Treatments based on antidepressants and psychotherapy are available to help people suffering from the disorder. Yet, as Jean-Luc Martin, senior lecturer and researcher at CHUV's Centre for Psychiatric Neurosciences (CNP) and UNIL, Synapsy member and co-director of the study together with Professor Pierre Magistretti, points out: "Around 30% of people with depression don't respond to antidepressants." At the same time, the antidepressant effects of physical activity have been known for many years, even though the scientific community has struggled to figure out the molecular mechanisms involved.

Exercise and lactate: united against depression

During its previous investigations, the laboratory led by Dr Martin focused on lactate - a molecule produced during physical exercise - in an attempt to explain the benefits of sport. The researchers observed the antidepressant action of lactate when administered to mice at doses comparable to those found during physical activity. As the Vaud-based neuroscientist continues: "Lactate decreases anhedonia in particular, one of the main symptoms of depression, which involves losing interest or pleasure in all those activities which, prior to depression, were considered enjoyable". Giving birth to new neurons

The CNP team was keen to delve deeper and understand how lactate acts on the brain to counter depression. They focused on adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus, a region of the brain that plays a role in memory and depression. "Adult neurogenesis is the term used for the production of new neurons in adulthood from brain stem cells", points out Dr Martin. "Its core purpose is to replace neurons, and it's known to be impaired in depressive patients, when it contributes to the reduction in the volume of the hippocampus observed in some individuals". With the help of his fellow researchers, Dr Martin was able to show that lactate restores neurogenesis and lowers depressive behaviour in mice. Conversely, without neurogenesis, lactate loses its antidepressant power, indicating that the two are intimately linked.

A key trio

But this does not tell us anything about the mechanism by which lactate regulates neurogenesis. Accordingly, the researchers studied its metabolism: in other words, all the cellular chemical reactions relating to it. Lactate is largely derived from the breakdown of glucose from food, and is then oxidised to pyruvate. Anthony Carrard, a biologist at CNP and the study's lead investigator, explains: "We logically tested pyruvate on neurogenesis, without success. So, we said to ourselves that the answer had to be found in the conversion of lactate to pyruvate".

During conversion of lactate to pyruvate, cells produce a molecule with antioxidant potential, known as NADH. As Dr Carrard continues: "It's NADH and its antioxidant properties that protect neurogenesis during a depressive episode - or at least during a modelling of some of these symptoms in animals". In conclusion, the researcher adds: "This mechanism could explain the link between sport and depression, understanding that further experiments are still needed to demonstrate it. Importantly, it offers potential targets for devising future treatments. To do this, we're first going to identify the proteins on which the NADH factor acts".

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SAN FRANCISCO - The San Francisco VA Health Care System (SFVAHCS) has selected four promising medical researchers for the Grunfeld Scholars Research Development Initiative. This initiative, currently in its second year, invests in early-career clinician-scientists to grow the pipeline of future leaders in medical research related to the health of Veterans, and preserve SFVAHCS' legacy as a pre-eminent medical research institution.

The Grunfeld Scholars Research Development Initiative is named for Carl Grunfeld, M.D., Ph.D., SFVAHCS's associate chief of staff for research and development. Dr. Grunfeld is a renowned clinician-scientist who has contributed over four decades of research excellence to the SFVAHCS.

"I am exceedingly proud of this second class of Grunfeld Scholars," said Dr. Grunfeld. "Their commitment to improving the lives of Veteran patients through research shows a true dedication to the profession of healing."

The scholarship program was open to clinician-scientists who:

Have completed, or will soon complete, a research fellowship with at least three first-author original publications in peer review journals.

Are currently eligible to apply for VA or National Institutes of Health (NIH) Career Development Awards (CDA), VA Merit Review, the NIH Research Project Grant Program, or other comparable funding.

Applicants were subject to a competitive selection process that included a review of their application by two SFVAHCS research committees. The selected Grunfeld Scholars will receive dedicated, protected time outside of their existing clinical work to pursue their research goals. They will receive this protected time for a duration of two years as they apply for grants, with the possibility of an extension. The program does not provide monetary funding for research. Of last year's four selected Grunfeld Scholars, three have already received a Career Development Award, and one received a permanent research position.

The 2021 Grunfeld Scholars are below:

Samantha Abram, PhD

Dr. Samantha Abram is a research fellow and clinical psychologist at the SFVAMC. Dr. Abram's research concerns why people with severe mental illness (SMI) struggle to initiate or sustain goal-directed behaviors. She integrates multiple neuroscientific tools to characterize decision behaviors, with a keen interest in mechanisms that track across species. She hopes to identify such mechanisms and develop ways to improve goal pursuit and functioning among those with psychotic-spectrum disorders. Outside of her research and clinical interests, Dr. Abram explores the many parks in California with her husband, Keith.

Franklin Huang, MD, PhD

Dr. Franklin Huang is a physician-scientist, an Assistant Professor in UCSF's Division of Hematology and Oncology in the Department of Medicine, and a medical oncologist who cares for advanced prostate cancer patients at the SFVAHCS. Dr. Huang is working to reduce cancer health disparities through molecular and genomic approaches. His research lab is focused on understanding the molecular determinants of cancer disparities with a focus in prostate cancer in African American men. His lab also studies mechanisms of carcinogenesis and cellular immortality. Dr. Huang is a St. Louis, MO native who now lives in San Francisco with his wife, Dr. Rebecca Berman, and three children. He is the co-founder of a non-profit organization, Global Oncology, that is working to improve cancer care in underserved patients worldwide that recently launched an oncology unit in Belize.

Alison Rustagi, MD, PhD

Dr. Alison Rustagi is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Medicine at UCSF and internal medicine physician at the SFVAHCS. Dr. Rustagi's research focuses on the epidemiology of screening for lung cancer, a disease for which veterans have a uniquely increased risk. The goals of her research are to maximize the benefits of lung cancer screening, minimize its harms, and improve equitable access to screening, as well as to harmonize best practices for lung cancer screening implementation within the VA system. Dr. Bauer is an alumnus of the UCSF School of Medicine. Outside of work, Dr. Rustagi enjoys spending time with her husband and their two young daughters, exploring San Francisco parks, and baking.

Samuel Washington, MD, MAS

Dr. Samuel Washington is staff urological surgeon at the SFVAHCS and an Assistant Professor in Urology and Epidemiology & Biostatistics at UCSF. His research has focused on prostate cancer outcomes with current research focusing on health services and cancer outcome disparities in patients with genitourinary malignancies. His ongoing research efforts continue to mirror his passion to expand our depth of knowledge in medicine into how variations in care at the local level drive differences in treatment and survival for patients with genitourinary cancers. He has always had a love for Classics, and enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters, Julianna and Savannah.

On June 28, 2021, from 12 - 1 p.m., the four 2021 Grunfeld Scholars will be giving web-based presentations of their ongoing research work.

To attend, use the information below: https:/ / gcc02. safelinks. protection. outlook. com/ ?url= https%3A%2F%2Fveteransaffairs. webex. com%2Fveteransaffairs%2Fj. php%3FMTID%3Dm35727599cf4947b23ec8af932165e96d&data= 04%7C01%7C%7C62f56a75fdf0442dc12e08d91ee24613%7Ce95f1b23abaf45ee821db7ab251ab3bf%7C0%7C0%7C637574779442495058%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&sdata= reJ%2Fnq0X0T5yIR%2BIryJhqnfYw%2FVmpQC7hrACF5c50NU%3D&reserved= 0

Meeting number (access code): Meeting number (access code): 199 867 8449

Meeting password: hJQAmuC$434

+14043971596,,1998678449## USA Toll Number

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About San Francisco VA Health Care System

The San Francisco VA Health Care System (SFVAHCS) is a comprehensive network that provides health services to Veterans through the San Francisco VA Medical Center (SFVAMC) and six community-based outpatient clinics in Santa Rosa, Eureka, Ukiah, Clearlake, San Bruno and downtown San Francisco. The SFVAHCS has a long history of conducting cutting-edge research, establishing innovative medical programs, and providing compassionate care to Veterans. SFVAMC has several National Centers of Excellence in the areas of epilepsy treatment, cardiac surgery, post-traumatic stress disorder, HIV and renal dialysis. SFVAMC's $81 million research program is one of the largest in the Veterans Health Administration. SFVAMC has been affiliated with the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), School of Medicine for more than 50 years.
Analysis using a national medical database revealed that the cumulative incidence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in children born in 2009-2014 was 2.75% by the age of five. A research group led by Associate Professor Daimei Sasayama and Professor Hideo Honda of the Department of Child and Adolescent Development Psychiatry, Shinshu University School of Medicine, used a national medical database to analyze autism spectrum disorders in Japan. It was reported that the cumulative incidence showed an increasing trend for each year of birth, and that there were regional differences.

This cumulative incidence of ASD is the highest in the world based on medical diagnosis, suggesting high diagnostic sensitivity in Japan. The proportion of people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders has increased globally over the last 20 years, with a 2014 US survey reporting a prevalence of 1.68% in 8-year-olds. In addition, a regional cohort study of children's mental development and psychiatry at Shinshu University School of Medicine reported that 3.1% of children had been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders by school age. Improving screening accuracy is one of the main reasons why more and more people are being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. In order to investigate the actual condition of diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder in Japan, the group investigated the cumulative incidence of autism spectrum disorder nationwide and the cumulative incidence by prefecture using National Database (NDB), which aggregates medical data from all over the country.

For children born in 2009-2016 and diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in 2009-2019, information on gender, year and age at the time of diagnosis, and the prefecture where the diagnosis was made were extracted from NDB. Cumulative incidence was calculated by dividing the number of diagnoses by the number of births each year.

Of the children born in 2009-2016, 313,353 (236,386 boys, 76,967 girls) were diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in 2009-2019. The lifetime cumulative incidence of autism spectrum disorders at age 5 in children born between 2009 and 2014 was 2.75%. The cumulative incidence tended to increase with each year of birth. By prefecture, the cumulative lifetime incidence of autism spectrum disorders at age 5 ranged from 0.9-7.9% (median 2.4%).

This study published in the journal JAMA Network Open reported that the cumulative incidence of autism spectrum disorders in Japan is high worldwide. It is thought that the nationwide increasing trend is influenced by the recent increase in awareness of autism spectrum disorders. On the other hand, since there are large regional differences in the incidence rate, it is possible that factors such as differences in access to medical care and support also affect the incidence rate. The results of this study show that there is an increasing need to build a support system for autism spectrum disorders. Accurately capturing changes in the frequency of autism spectrum disorders is important both for the realization of an effective support system and for studying the risk factors and etiology of autism spectrum disorders. The research group will continue to investigate trends in the incidence of autism spectrum disorders in Japan and around the world.

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This study was funded by grant-in-aid for scientific research H30-shintai/chiteki-ippan-002 from the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare.
Five years on from the first discovery of gravitational waves, an international team of scientists, including from the ARC Centre of Excellence for Gravitational Wave Discovery (OzGrav), are continuing the hunt for new discoveries and insights into the Universe. Using the super-sensitive, kilometre-sized LIGO detectors in the United States, and the Virgo detector in Europe, the team have witnessed the explosive collisions of black holes and neutron stars. Recent studies, however, have been looking for something quite different: the elusive signal from a solitary, rapidly-spinning neutron star.

Take a star similar in size to the Sun, squash it down to a ball about twenty kilometres across - roughly the distance from Melbourne airport to the city centre - and you'd get a neutron star: the densest object in the known Universe. Now set your neutron star spinning at hundreds of revolutions per second and listen carefully. If your neutron star isn't perfectly spherical, it will wobble about a bit, and you'll hear a faint "humming" sound. Scientists call this a continuous gravitational wave.

So far, these humming neutron stars have proved elusive. As OzGrav postdoctoral researcher Karl Wette from the Australian National University explains: "Imagine you're out in the Australian bush listening to the wildlife. The gravitational waves from black hole and neutron star collisions we've observed so far are like squawking cockatoos - loud and boisterous, they're pretty easy to spot! A continuous gravitational wave, however, is like the faint, constant buzz of a faraway bee, which is much more difficult to detect. So we've got to use a few different strategies. Sometimes we hone in on a particular direction ? for example, a flowering bush where bees are likely to congregate. Other times, we close our eyes and listen keenly to all the sounds we can hear, and try to pick out any buzzing sounds in the background. So far, we haven't had any luck, but we'll keep trying! Once we do hear a continuous gravitational wave, we'll be able to peer deep into the heart of a neutron star and unravel its mysteries, which is an exciting prospect."

A recent collaborative study with OzGrav has taken a closer look at the remnants of exploded stars, called supernovae. OzGrav PhD student Lucy Strang from the University of Melbourne explains: "Our search targets fifteen young supernova remnants containing young neutron stars. We use three different pipelines: one optimized for sensitivity, one that can handle a rapidly evolving signal, and one optimized for one likely astrophysical scenario. This is the first LIGO study covering all three of these scenarios, maximising our chance of a continuous wave detection. Continuous gravitational waves are proving very difficult to detect, but the same properties that make them elusive make them appealing targets. The exact form of the signal (i.e. its frequency, how rapidly the frequency changes, how loud it is, etc.) is dependent on what neutron stars are made of. So far, the structure of neutron stars is an open question that draws in all kinds of physicists. Even without a detection, a search allows us to peek behind the curtain at the unknown physics of neutron stars. When we do detect continuous waves, we'll open the curtain and shine a spotlight on new physics. Until then, we can use the information we do have to refine our understanding and improve our search methods."

OzGrav Associate Investigator Lilli Sun from the Australian National University says: "Young neutron stars in supernova remnants are promising targets to look for those tiny continuous gravitational waves, because they haven't spent a long enough time to relax and smooth out the asymmetries introduced at their birth. In our endeavor to search for continuous waves from these young neutron stars in our third observing run, we take into consideration, for the first time, the possibilities that the interior configuration and structure of the star can result in signals emitted at two different harmonics. Although no signal has been detected in O3, we set interesting constraints on the neutron star properties. If such a signal can be detected in future observations when the detectors are more sensitive, it will shed light on the fascinating structure of a neutron star."

OzGrav postdoctoral researcher Carl Blair from the University of Western Australia says: "Gravitational waves are being used to probe the most exotic objects in the Universe. Neutron stars - composed of matter collapsed in on itself like a giant atomic nuclei - have to be one of the most exotic. We don't know that much about neutron stars because they're so small and strange. Are they hard or soft? And when they spin fast as they collapse, do they wobble away that energy in the form of gravitational waves? While there is no evidence yet for continuous gravitational waves from neutron stars, limits have been placed on how wobbly a neutron star is from the fact that we haven't measured gravitational waves from them yet."

In addition, recent studies announced by the international research team - including the U.S./international LIGO Scientific Collaboration, European Virgo Collaboration and Japanese KAGRA Collaboration - have focussed on pulsars. These are neutron stars which act as cosmic lighthouses, beaming out copious energy in the form of radio waves. Pulsars are like giant spinning magnets, except they're billions of times stronger than the ones stuck to your fridge. So strong, in fact, that the magnetic field distorts the shape of the neutron star, and may lead to a tell-tale hum of continuous gravitational waves. While the recent studies did not pick up anything, they found tight constraints on how loud the "hum" could be, which, in some cases, are starting to challenge theoretical predictions.

OzGrav PhD student Deeksha Beniwal from the University of Adelaide says: "Gravitational-wave observation from O3 run of LIGO and Virgo detectors has allowed us to set realistic constraints on signals expected from young pulsars. O3 observations also provide an opportunity to test out different pipelines - such as different search methods for continuous wave signals ? in realistic environments."

OzGrav postdoctoral researcher Meg Millhouse from the University of Melbourne says: "Continuous gravitational waves from neutron stars are much smaller than the gravitational waves LIGO and Virgo have seen so far. This means we need different techniques to detect them. And, because these are long lasting signals, we need to look at lots of data which can be very difficult computationally. The recent LIGO-Virgo papers published showcase a wide range of these clever approaches to detect continuous gravitational waves. Even though there were no detections in the most recent data analysed, we're in a good position to keep searching and possibly make a detection when LIGO collects more data."

Scientists estimate that there are billions of neutron stars in the Milky Way with a faint murmur of continuous gravitational waves. Further studies have therefore taken an "ears wide open" approach, combing through the LIGO and Virgo data for any hint of a signal. The results so far suggest that these murmurings are extremely quiet and out of the detectors' "ear" range. However, as detector technology becomes more advanced and sensitive, the first ever detection of continuous gravitational waves could soon become a reality.

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Cindy Akers was announced as the interim dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources on May 27. Cindy currently serves as a professor and the associate dean for Academic and Student Programs within the college.
Immunosensors are widely used in immunoassays to detect antigens. One such immunosensor is a quenchbody (Q-body), which contains a modified antibody fragment with a quenched fluorescent dye. When an antigen binds to the Q-body, the dye leaves the antibody and the fluorescence intensifies. The change in fluorescence intensity is easy to measure, making Q-body-based antigen detection systems incredibly simple. However, this method requires an external light source to excite the electrons in the fluorescent dye to produce luminescence.

One way to solve this is to induce luminescence by an alternative method. To achieve this, researchers from Tokyo Tech, Japan, have developed a novel immunosensor. They used a modified luciferase enzyme called "NanoLuc" (Nluc) that is originally responsible for bioluminescence in shrimp and fused it to the Q-body. This immunosensor, termed "BRET Q-body", works on the bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) principle. Here, a luminescent substrate is added to the fused Q-body. The substrate reacts with the enzyme and this reaction provides the energy required by the dye to induce fluorescence. This type of luminescence is advantageous, as Professor Hiroshi Ueda, who leads the team of researchers, explains, "The BRET Q-body system can be used to visualize the presence or the absence of an antigen as a change in the emission color without any instrument." Their findings were recently published in the journal Analytical Chemistry.

To prepare the BRET Q-body, the researchers used a single-chain antibody fragment which binds to the antigen BGP, a protein found in the bone. The antibody fragment was then labeled with a fluorescent dye. They then tested the fluorescence intensity of the resulting BRET Q-bodies and observed that the addition of the antigen increased the intensity of the fluorescence.

After these initial results, the researchers tested the antigen dependency of the BRET Q-body. They compared the fluorescence obtained by the new BRET-based method against the conventional irradiation-based method. The fluorescence intensity of the BRET-Q body was initially measured with excitation light and later in the presence of the luminescent substrate. They found that the antigen-binding brought the Nluc enzyme and the dye closer together resulting in higher fluorescence intensity levels when the substrate was used. As luminescence from the BRET Q-body is obtained initially from the enzyme and then from the fluorescent dye upon antigen binding, a simple color change indicates the presence of an antigen.

This study paves the way forward for a new class of bioluminescent sensors that do not require an external excitation light source. The novel BRET Q-bodies are expected to make immunoassay tests much simpler and more accurate. As Prof. Ueda explains the advantages and potential applications of their findings, "The detection of the BRET signal does not need a light source, allows visual observation of the color change, and easier integration to a smartphone-based device. Therefore, we expect that BRET Q-bodies will be a promising tool for diagnosis, food safety, environmental preservation, and biological research."

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For years, food producers who make lightly preserved, ready-to-eat food have had to follow a set of guidelines to stop growth of Clostridium botulinum bacteria and production of a strong neurotoxin. The toxin can cause a serious illness called botulism.

For refrigerated products, the guidelines for controlling Clostridium botulinum indicate that the water contained in the products should have a salt content of at least 3.5%. Unfortunately, this hampers efforts to develop salt-reduced products, even though such products would benefit public health, as most consumers eat more salt than recommended.

If food producers want to launch products that contain e.g. less salt, they have had to conduct laboratory experiments to document that such a change in recipe will not compromise food safety. This is a time-consuming and costly process.

Reduced need for costly product testing

Researchers at the National Food Institute have now developed a mathematical model, which replaces costly laboratory experiments. The industry has been asking for this model for years. The new model can predict whether a particular recipe for chilled products can prevent the growth of Clostridium botulinum and production of the toxin.

The model is the most comprehensive of its kind in the world and can show how storage temperature, pH, salt and the use of five different preservatives (such as acetic and lactic acids) affect potential bacterial growth and production of the toxin. Previous models have only incorporated the effect of half of these factors.

The model was originally developed for use in fish products. However, by conducting validation studies using more than 500 different products, the researchers have established that it can be used to assess the safety of recipes for both fish and poultry.

Future work on the model will include other foods such as meat and vegetable products.

Major interest from the industry

The researchers have described their work with development of the new model in a newly published article in the International Journal of Food Microbiology. Because of this, several large food producers have already contacted the National Food Institute with a view to having the safety of their recipes tested using the model.

The next step is to include the new Clostridium botulinum model in the institute's Food Spoilage and Safety Predictor (FSSP) software in order to make it more user-friendly.

The FSSP programme already contains a number of models that can predict the growth of disease-causing microorganisms such as Listeria monocytogenes as well as some spoilage bacteria. FSSP is used by food producers all over the world to promote product development and to document food safety and shelf life.

Laboratory experiments using less dangerous bacteria

When conducting experiments using Clostridium botulinum bacteria, strict safety measures must be adhered to in the laboratory, as their toxins can cause serious illness that can lead to death.

During their work to create the new model, the researchers have used Clostridium botulinum isolates, which cannot form the dangerous toxins but are still useful for predicting the absence of growth and thereby absence of toxin formation in different recipes. The use of these bacteria has made laboratory work considerably less cumbersome.

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Read more

Read more in the article: Cardinal parameter growth and growth boundary model for non-proteolytic Clostridium botulinum - Effect of eight environmental factors.

Since the FSSP programme was introduced in 1999 more than 17,000 people from companies, institutions and authorities in more than 100 countries have used it. The programme was developed by Professor Paw Dalgaard at the National Food Institute and is freely available. Read more about the programme on the FSSP's website.

Contact

PhD student Ioulia Koukou, ioko@food.dtu.dk

Professor Paw Dalgaard, pada@food.dtu.dk, tlf. +45 45 25 25 66
Human-driven global change is challenging the scientific community to understand how marine species might adapt to predicted environmental conditions in the near-future (e.g. hypoxia, ocean warming, and ocean acidification). The effects of the uptake of anthropogenic atmospheric CO2 by oceans affects (i.e. ocean acidification) propagate across the biological hierarchy, from changes in the building blocks of life at nano-scales to organism, physiology and behaviour through ecosystem processes and their properties.

To survive in a reduced pH environment, marine organisms have to adjust their physiology which, at the molecular level, is achieved by modifying the expression of genes. The study of such changes in gene expression can aid in revealing the adaptive mechanisms of life under predicted future ocean acidification conditions.

Making use of natural laboratories

There are a few places on this planet where volcanic activity has CO2 bubbling from the seafloor creating conditions that are similar to those predicted to occur across the oceans in the near-future. Such natural laboratories can then help us to understand what will happen to marine organisms in the future under an ocean acidification scenario. Therefore, researchers from Research Division for Ecology & Biodiversity of the University of Hong Kong (HKU) and Swire Institute of Marine Science, jointly with researchers from the University of Adelaide, travelled to a remote volcanic island of New Zealand called White Island. They collected samples from CO2 seeps and nearby locations, and analysed molecular data from a fish species (the Common triplefin) with ecological evidence of being successfully adapted to acidified environments at CO2 volcanic vents. The findings were published in a peer-reviewed open access journal Evolutionary Applications.

Studying evolutionary mechanism through species mutations

The study found a higher gene expression in gonads in fish living in the CO2 vents with reduced pH than those from control environments with ambient CO2 and pH conditions. Most of those genes were functionally involved in the maintenance of pH homeostasis, increased metabolism, and regulatory functions of downstream biological processes revealing important processes a fish needs to adjust to live in a lower pH environment. Interestingly, it was mainly the male fish with this expression signature hinting at reproductive consequences as males provide parental care of the nests.

When looking at the actual sequence of these genes and their genetic variation, the authors found evidence of a long-term process of natural selection. The genetic changes, which we call mutations, providing the fish with adaptive advantages for living in an acidified, are located in DNA sequences regulating the expression of the genes. These mutations in regulatory sequences would not impact the fitness of the individuals carrying them when living in an ambient pH environment, but these might allow fine-tuned physiological regulation in a reduced pH environment. Such standing genetic variation in DNA regulatory sequences could provide for the adaptive potential to near-future ocean acidification in fishes.

Moreover, the authors propose an evolutionary mechanism by means this adaptive potential to ocean acidification could be maintained in natural populations of fishes. Fish species tend to occur across wide geographical ranges with different pH. Thus, it is likely that similar to what happens in Common triplefins, the genetic variation allowing for life in slightly reduced or variable pH environments already exist within many fish populations. Highly dispersive larvae of fishes contribute to the flow of this genetic variation among the populations of a species. Hence, it might be expected that the genetic variation in regulatory sequences of gene expression efficiently adjusting the physiological responses to reduced pH will provide the raw material for adaptive natural selection in the near-future under increasing ocean acidification.

"The findings of this study imply that one of the more relevant things in terms of the capacity of the marine species to respond to future changes in their environmental conditions is their current genetic variation. Thus, the assessment of the levels of genetic diversity of different marine species is the most important, and we are currently working on it," said Dr Natalia PETIT-MARTY, first author of the paper and Postdoctoral Fellow in the group led by Dr Celia SCHUNTER at Research Division for Ecology and Biodiversity & Swire Institute of Marine Science, HKU.

"We are very fortunate to get to visit these remote places providing us with a glimpse of how the oceans may look like in the future. To make sure our findings are applicable across different marine ecosystems, we also travelled to CO2 vents at tropical coral reefs in Papua New Guinea and rocky reefs in the Mediterranean Sea, and will continue our research on the adaptive potential of marine fishes to ocean acidification," added Dr Celia SCHUNTER, Assistant Professor at Research Division for Ecology and & Swire Institute of Marine Science, HKU.

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The complete study was first published in Evolutionary Applications on April 8th, 2021. N. Petit-Marty, I. Nagelkerken, S. D. Connell, and C. Schunter. (2021). Natural CO2 seeps reveal adaptive potential to ocean acidification in fish.

The research paper can be accessed from: https:/ / onlinelibrary. wiley. com/ doi/ 10. 1111/ eva. 13239
Although insect larvae may seem harmless to humans, they can be extremely dangerous to the plant species that many of them feed on, and some of those plant species are important as agricultural crops. Although plants cannot simply flee from danger like animals typically would, many have nonetheless evolved ingenious strategies to defend themselves from herbivores. Herbivorous insect larvae will commonly use their mouths to smear various digestive proteins onto plants that they want to eat, and when plants detect chemicals commonly found in these oral secretions, they can respond to the injury by producing defensive molecules, including proteins and specialized metabolites, of their own that inactivate the insect's digestive proteins and thus prevent the insect from obtaining nutrients from the plant.

Of course, the existence of such chemical defense mechanisms in plants is a problem, which herbivorous insects must counter. One way that insects have evolved to overcome these problems is by forming partnerships with bacteria. For example, the digestive oral secretions of the Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata) include bacteria that can suppress the defense mechanisms of the tomato plants that the beetle commonly feeds on. The beetle and the bacteria have thus achieved "symbiosis," which is a term that biologists use to describe a mutually beneficial partnership: the beetle provides the bacteria with a comfortable environment inside its mouth and other secretory organs, and the bacteria help the beetle consume nutrients from tomato plants.

To Prof. Gen-ichiro Arimura of Tokyo University of Science, this is a fascinating result: "Although it is well known that symbiotic microorganisms in animals (especially bacteria in the intestines of herbivores such as pandas and cows) affect biological activities such as digestion and reproduction, the fact that they affect the prey (i.e., the plants) is not so well known." In other words, the fact that the insect's bacterial partners work to alter biochemical processes within the living plant before it is eaten is a matter of considerable interest to scientists.

Prof. Arimura and his research team, in collaboration with Okayama University, wondered whether such partnerships with bacteria may apply in the case of the insect Spodoptera litura, the larvae of which are major pests that commonly damage crops in Asia. In an article recently published in the journal New Phytologist, Prof. Arimura's research team experimented with applying the oral secretions of S. litura larvae to mechanically damaged leaves of the thale cress plant (Arabidopsis thaliana). When the researchers sterilized the oral secretions to kill or remove any bacteria that may be present in them, they found that applying these secretions to the plant leaves stimulated the expression of defense-related genes and the production of oxylipins that play important roles in defending A. thaliana cells from digestion. However, when the researchers applied oral secretions that had not been sterilized, the bacteria present within the oral secretions acted to prevent the expression of defense-related genes and the production of oxylipins. In contrast, the bacteria stimulated the production of salicylic acid and abscisic acid, two chemicals that act to suppress the production of oxylipins.

These findings are compelling evidence that bacteria in the oral secretions of S. litura assist the larvae in overcoming plant defense mechanisms, and the researchers wanted to identify the bacteria responsible. Tests of the larvae's oral secretions revealed the presence of a bacterium called Staphylococcus epidermidis, and further experiments confirmed the S. epidermidis acted to suppress plant defense mechanisms.

These results provide important insights into how S. litura counteracts the defense mechanisms of the plants that it feeds on, and Prof. Arimura hopes that knowing more about the relationship between the larvae and the bacteria will help crop scientists develop techniques to protect important crop species from S. litura. Such techniques may help farmers reduce their use of environmentally harmful pesticides, and Prof. Arimura expresses optimism that his research will thus "contribute to the creation of a safe and secure food supply and a rich environment."

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About The Tokyo University of Science

Tokyo University of Science (TUS) is a well-known and respected university, and the largest science-specialized private research university in Japan, with four campuses in central Tokyo and its suburbs and in Hokkaido. Established in 1881, the university has continually contributed to Japan's development in science through inculcating the love for science in researchers, technicians, and educators.

With a mission of "Creating science and technology for the harmonious development of nature, human beings, and society", TUS has undertaken a wide range of research from basic to applied science. TUS has embraced a multidisciplinary approach to research and undertaken intensive study in some of today's most vital fields. TUS is a meritocracy where the best in science is recognized and nurtured. It is the only private university in Japan that has produced a Nobel Prize winner and the only private university in Asia to produce Nobel Prize winners within the natural sciences field.

Website: https:/ / www. tus. ac. jp/ en/ mediarelations/

About Professor Gen-ichiro Arimura from Tokyo University of Science

Dr Gen-ichiro Arimura is a Professor at the Department of Biological Science and Technology within the Faculty of Advanced Engineering at Tokyo University of Science (TUS), Japan. After completing his postgraduate education at the Hiroshima University Graduate School, he worked in the field of plant biology for several years before moving to TUS in 2013. A senior and well-respected researcher, he has more than 110 publications to his credit. His key research interests include plant biotechnology, ecology, and biochemistry.

Funding information

This work was funded by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science and the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.
There is heightened public awareness that the world's oceans are under duress, with over-fishing and plastic pollution as some of the more tangible problems. Now, seabirds are calling attention to another problem and have delivered a warning message.

Serving as translators of the birds' message, an international team of 40 scientists led by William Sydeman at the Farallon Institute in northern California published findings on May 28 in the journal Science that some seabirds are struggling to raise young where the globe is most rapidly warming - in the northern hemisphere.

Using over 50 years of data from 67 seabird species across the globe, the team found that the breeding success of fish-eating seabirds in the north has trended downwards through time, meaning that they are producing fewer offspring each year.

"Seabirds can handle short-term declines in breeding success, but when breeding success becomes chronically poor - that's not good," says Sydeman. He explains that because seabirds rely on food like small fish and plankton (e.g., krill), long-term declines in their breeding success indicates that food resources aren't holding up in ecosystems where the rate of ocean warming and other human impacts are highest.

Marine ecologists have often likened seabirds to "canaries in the coalmine" because of their sensitivity to environmental disturbances. This sensitivity is due to the challenge of raising young at dedicated sites on land (or on stationary ice) while their ocean-based food is constantly on the move.

Furthermore, seabirds need to consume roughly half of their body weight in this food daily, making them susceptible to reduced food availability due to climate or other factors.

Coauthor Marisol Garcia-Reyes, an oceanographer at the Farallon Institute, explains that as climate warming alters ocean habitats, the locations of temperature zones in which various seabird food thrives can shift farther away from seabird breeding sites -- and that's when the birds suffer.

Indeed, less than a decade ago there was an estimated 1 million murres (a common seabird pictured above) that starved to death in the North Pacific due to an unprecedented marine heatwave that disrupted the food web.

According to Sydeman, while marine heatwaves may produce dramatic mortality events such as the murre die-off in the Northeast Pacific, long-term degradation of our marine ecosystems is a more insidious problem.

Sydeman emphasizes that the implications of the study extend well beyond seabirds. "What's also at stake is the health of fish populations such as salmon and cod, as well as marine mammals and large invertebrates, such as squid, that are eating the same small forage fish and plankton that seabirds eat. When seabirds aren't doing well, this is a red flag that something bigger is happening below the ocean's surface which is concerning because we depend on healthy oceans for quality of life."

On a more hopeful note, Sydeman points to their study's results that seabirds in the north that forage on plankton have not suffered the same declines in breeding success as have those that feed on fish, and that breeding failures were less likely for birds that forage in deeper water. These patterns could signal resilience for some deeper-diving birds like puffins. Declining trends in seabird breeding success in the southern hemisphere have also not been so severe, but plankton-feeders show a declining trend.

Policies to alleviate climate change are obviously needed, a long-term solution brought forth in the paper. But the authors also suggest that in the north, where global warming may be worsened by additional human impacts like fishing, fisheries closures around breeding colonies during chick rearing periods will be needed to ease pressure.

In the south, where the rate of human-induced changes is picking up, creation of long-term Marine Protected Areas could prevent those birds from similar fates to their northern counterparts.

Sydeman and his team caution that there is a lot of variability in the data, and that more work is needed to understand why some species are doing better or worse than others. "We don't understand all of the mechanisms at play here, as marine ecosystems are so complex and we often can't observe key changes directly," says Sydeman.

The authors stress the critical importance of maintaining long-term seabird monitoring programs, some of which may be canceled due to changing governmental funding allocations.

To coauthor Brian Hoover, of Chapman University, California, the collaboration among scientists was perhaps the most meaningful outcome of their study. "Scientists from all over came together to contribute their efforts to the bigger picture and that enabled us to discover global ecological trends that wouldn't have been apparent from singular datasets - that's inspiring and shows what we can accomplish working together."

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About Farallon Institute, California

Farallon Institute is a non-profit scientific organization dedicated to the understanding and preservation of healthy marine ecosystems. Its research is designed to provide the scientific basis for ecosystem-based management practices and policy reforms consistent with a productive marine world.

Farallon Institute emphasizes long-term, multi-species, multi-disciplinary research into the interdependent aspects of the marine environment, including the effects of natural and human based climate change, and the broad implications and influences of ocean currents, weather patterns, fishing practices and coastal development on marine food webs and ecosystem processes.

We are committed to an inclusive and equitable work environment, and strive to create diverse research teams to foster a marine scientific community that reflects the communities reliant upon the world's oceans.
A digital tool that will make it cheaper, safer and faster to develop new medicines is being rolled out by scientists from the University of Bath in the UK.

A cutting-edge digital tool that will make it cheaper, safer and faster for pharmaceutical companies to predict protein stability - a vital step in the development of new medicines - is being rolled out by scientists from the UK's University of Bath through their spin-out company, BLOC Labs.

The tool, launched this week, will help researchers identify the most promising protein molecules for drug development. It has the potential to play an important role in the creation of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). The market for these therapeutic antibodies is worth over 70 bn.

Monoclonal antibodies are a type of protein derived from natural antibodies and then refined and mass produced in the lab. They are steadily transforming the way we treat and prevent diseases, from cancer and conditions affecting the immune system to viral infections. The coronavirus pandemic has triggered particular interest in mAbs, as a number of protein candidates are showing great promise as therapies to treat Covid-19, and are currently being trialled in humans.

STABILITY IS KEY

Only mAbs that are known to be stable (that is, they neither break down easily nor clump together to form toxic compounds) are suitable for development, and finding a stable candidate adds massively to the cost and time of finding new drugs.

Until now, the process of determining protein stability has been a big headache for drug companies, with researchers testing vast libraries of molecules in their search for proteins with medicinal properties. However, the tool developed in Bath - called Quantitative Understanding of Bio-molecular Edge-Shift (QUBES) - is able predict the stability of proteins with startling speed and accuracy.

Dr Chris Pudney from the University's Department of Biology & Biochemistry and developer of QUBES, said: "We're really excited by the potential of QUBES because it can be used immediately in the biopharmaceutical industry in quality assurance, formulation and development."

He added: "Proteins are notoriously unstable for a good reason - the body wants to recycle them constantly. But with a therapeutic product, you need stability - if a protein breaks down and aggregates, it becomes toxic. Finding stable proteins is hugely expensive for pharmaceutical companies, but using our tool to find the best molecule possible will cut down on the time and cost of development massively."

QUBES FINGERPRINTING

QUBES works by allowing researchers to accurately 'fingerprint' a protein's structure and predict stability under nearly any condition of concentration or formulation. The technique uses fluorescence to map protein structure and then applies a mathematical algorithm, based on the position and type of the protein's atoms, to calculate stability. Thanks to an online suite of software - also developed in Bath - laboratories can interpret their fluorescent data from anywhere in the world, using equipment found in most biochemistry labs without modifications.

Elaborating on the fingerprinting technique, Dr Pudney said: "Proteins contains tryptophan - an amino acid that emits fluorescent light. Every protein molecule has a unique fluorescent signature, and QUBES leverages this optical phenomenon, applying mathematical techniques to analyse and interpret the fluorescence.

"The software suite takes this academic work and makes it incredibly easy for people to use. You can run it on any machine - even on your mobile phone. It's ultra-rapid and ultra-easy, and it offers an incredibly high level of security - in fact, we have a grade of security that's normally reserved for the financial service industry."

What sets QUBES apart from its competitors is the quality of its readings and its extreme flexibility. Dr Pudney explains: "Not only is our approach faster, more accurate and more sensitive than anything else on the market, but it can also predict stability at any concentration and in any formulation - unlike other tools on the market, which require set conditions."

Dr Pudney's team have recently conducted a validation study of the QUBES technology with the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) under the government backed 'Measurement for Recovery Scheme' scheme, which provides independent validation of technology by the country's leading analytical facility.

Dr Alex Jones, who led the study at NPL, said: "We tested the QUBES approach using a range of analytical methodologies and found that it tracks subtle changes in protein structure and stability with remarkable sensitivity when compared to established methodologies. The approach is fast and simple to implement."

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The research is published in the Biochemical Journal and the QUBES software is available for commercial trial via BLOC Laboratories Ltd: http://www. bloclaboratories. com .

The research was funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Bath Crescent Fund.
The ability to make membrane-bound organelles is a defining characteristic of eukaryotic cells -- cells that constitute the bodies of all animals, plants and fungi on Earth. Membranes create enclosures that provide specialized environments for certain structures and their functions, such as the nuclei that store genetic information, or the mitochondria that produce energy for the cell.

Of the handful of such organelles in the eukaryotic cell, one in particular intrigues UC Santa Barbara biochemist Brooke Gardner. It's called the peroxisome, and it's the Swiss army knife of membrane-bound organelles.

"I like to think of it as the room in the house that could be an office, a nursery or a gym, whatever the cell needs it to be," said Gardner, an assistant professor in the Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (MCDB). Peroxisomes are relatively simple organelles with diverse functions, including metabolizing lipids and processing reactive oxygen, in environments isolated from the rest of the cell. Cells can not only adjust the size and functions of these structures, they can also create new ones as needed.

For all their essential functions, however, peroxisomes are largely a mystery.

"They have certainly been proved to have different functions, but we still don't know things like how do proteins cross the peroxisome's membrane?" Gardner said. "It's a big black box at this point." With a stronger foundational knowledge of the organelle's basic biology, we could take steps toward treating some rare genetic disorders, she added.

Now, with support from the Searle Scholars Program, Gardner is aiming to bring us to a better understanding of the versatile and vital peroxisome, and its relationship to the rest of the cell.

"I am thrilled to be named a Searle Scholar," Gardner said. "This award gives us the freedom to try some of the riskier projects that I have in mind, and I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue these ideas."

"Professor Gardner is an outstanding scientist who is highly deserving of this award," said Frederick Dahlquist, MCDB department chair. "She has joined a group of remarkable younger faculty that assure a bright future for biology at UCSB."

Using a variety of methods, including gene-based CRISPRi technology and cryo-electron microscopy, Gardner and collaborators will endeavor to solve some puzzles of basic peroxisome biology. How do gene mutations impact these organelles' functions? What mammalian factors are involved in the peroxisome assembly and maintenance? How does stress on the organelle affect the rest of the cell? She will work with graduate student Jonathan Vu and fellow MCDB assistant professor Chris Richardson to screen for novel mammalian peroxisome genes, and with research associate (and former UCSB undergrad) Connor Sheedy she'll endeavor to determine how disease-causing mutations impact peroxisome formation.

Gardner is the fifth UC Santa Barbara faculty member to receive an award from the Searle Scholars Program, which seeks to fund innovative, high-risk, high-reward research in biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, immunology, neuroscience, pharmacology and related areas in chemistry, medicine and the biological sciences. Previous recipients include Joel Rothman and Kathleen Foltz in the Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology; Irene Chen in the Department of Chemistry; and Sung Soo Kim, also in MCDB. In general, the program makes 15 new grants annually.

Gardner received her bachelor's degree in biochemistry from Middlebury College and her Ph.D. in biochemistry from UC San Francisco, followed by a Miller Research Fellowship at UC Berkeley. She joined the UC Santa Barbara faculty in 2019.

The Searle Scholars Program was founded in 1980. It is funded through the Searle Funds at the Chicago Community Trust established by the estates of Mr. and Mrs. John G. Searle. John G. Searle was the grandson of the founder of the global pharmaceutical company, G.D. Searle & Company.

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A research group at the University of Cordoba evaluated the commercial mixture formulated in a laboratory and the tank-based mixture of two herbicides to determine which method is more effective in terms of weed control and environmental impact.

In 2017 the company Nufarm Europe proposed to the Higher Technical School of Agricultural and Forestry Engineering (ETSIAM) at the UCO a study of the results of two products having a significant agronomic impact: the herbicides glyphosate and 2,4-D (synthetic auxin). After three years of research, they concluded that the commercial mix produced in the company's laboratories is more effective than manual mixes produced in tanks.

To do this, they used in vivo techniques (tests with greenhouse plants) and in vitro (biochemical tests) on two different broad-leaved plants that are difficult to control due to their natural resistance to and tolerance of glyphosate. In this regard, ConyzacanadensisandEpilobiumciliatum, gathered in Spanish and Chilean olive groves, respectively, were analyzed. "The objective was to determine the effectiveness of the formulated mixture vs the tank mixture with respect to weed control, environmental impact and application cost," explained Professor Rafael De Prado, with the UCO.

Glyphosate and 2,4-D are two herbicides widely used to combat broad-leaved weeds and unwanted grasses in fields. Glyphosate is characterized by its strong absorption into the soil, rapid biodegradation, and lower toxicity. Its predominance in the world pesticide market is mostly due to its use on crops like rapeseed, cotton, corn and soybeans, especially in the Western Hemisphere and in Mediterranean Europe, on perennial crops (olive groves, vineyards, and almond groves). Along this line, the study by the University of Cordoba found that the commercial mixture formulated in laboratories of the herbicides glyphosate and 2,4-Des is more effective and has a lower environmental impact than manual mixing performed in tanks by people, sometimes without sufficient training.

The project was carried out both in the field, with the help of the Autonomous University of Chapingo (Mexico), the Federal University of Sao Carlos (Brazil), the MAIBA-INTA, Argentina, and the ETSIAM, where the lab studies were conducted. The UCO research team, together with the three Latin American universities, concluded that environmental and economic risks could be reduced, and effectiveness controlling these difficult-to-control weeds could be boosted 10-20% using glyphosate.

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Reference
The opioid epidemic is taking a deadly toll on people in disproportionate clusters from Cape Cod to San Diego, according to a new study by the University of Cincinnati.

Fatal opiate overdoses are most prevalent among six states: Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, West Virginia, Indiana and Tennessee. But researchers identified 25 hot spots of fatal opioid overdoses nationwide using data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The study demonstrates how both widespread and localized the problem of substance use disorders can be, UC assistant professor and co-author Diego Cuadros said.

Cuadros is director of UC's Health Geography and Disease Modeling Laboratory, which applies geographical information, perspectives and methods to the study of health, disease and health care. As an epidemiologist, he studies the impacts of diseases such as malaria, HIV and COVID-19.

"Not everyone is similarly at risk," Cuadros said. "We wanted to identify characteristics that put people at higher risk of a fatal overdose."

Health interventions for opiates have focused largely on treatments such as the distribution of naloxone and other lifesaving remedies. But Cuadros said prevention could be effective if vulnerable populations can be identified. To that end, researchers found that white males ages 25 to 29 were most at risk of fatal opioid overdose followed by white males ages 30 to 34. The study also identified an increasing risk to black males ages 30 to 34.

The study also found a correlation between fatal overdoses and mental and physical distress using surveys of physically and mentally unhealthy days. Mental distress increases the relative risk of dying from a drug overdose by as much as 39%.

"We saw a strong association with mental health and substance abuse disorders, particularly opiates," Cuadros said. "What's happening now is we're more than a year into a pandemic. Mental health has deteriorated for the entire population, which means we'll see a surge in opiate overdoses."

Researchers are trying to understand why men are more likely than women to suffer a fatal overdose and what it is about the period of life between age 30 and 45 that makes people more susceptible to the epidemic.

"Maybe you have more responsibilities, financial responsibilities or stress at that time. Maybe there are physiological changes or changes in our brain that we don't know yet," Cuadros said.

"This is a complex epidemic. For HIV we have one virus or agent. Same with malaria. Same with COVID-19. It's a virus," Cuadros said. "But with opioids, we have several agents. At the beginning of the epidemic it was heroin. By 2010 it switched to prescription opiates."

Now states are seeing more overdoses from synthetic opioids such as fentanyl.

The study also tracked the migration of overdoses between 2005 and 2017 from Southwest states to the Northeast. Many of the clusters UC identified in the Southwest and Northeast had comparatively higher levels of physical and mental distress.

Co-author Neil MacKinnon, former dean of UC's James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, said the analysis could help health policymakers and clinicians by identifying individual and community-level factors associated with an increased risk of death due to substance use disorder. He is provost now at Augusta University, Georgia.

"We hope the risk factors we identified in this analysis will be used by agencies like RecoveryOhio to plan proactive strategies and allocate resources to address this epidemic," MacKinnon said.

Previously, UC researchers identified 12 regions in Ohio that had disproportionately high rates of fatal overdoses from opioids.

"We started in Ohio. We know that in this state we're suffering one of the highest burdens of the problem," Cuadros said.

Likewise, he said it would be worthwhile to study populations in the United States where opioids are not exacting a horrible toll on families to understand the problem.

"Sometimes we focus too much on where the problem is focused. It's useful to look at the areas where the problem is not as pressing," Cuadros said.

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University of Guelph researchers have discovered a key way Parkinson's disease spreads in the brain

A new discovery by University of Guelph researchers may ultimately help in devising new therapies and improving quality of life for people with Parkinson's disease.

By showing how entangled proteins in brain cells enable the neurodegenerative disease to spread, the researchers hope their findings will lead to drugs that halt its progression, said PhD candidate Morgan Stykel, first author of a paper published this month in Cell Reports.

Parkinson's disease is the world's fastest-growing neurodegenerative disease and Canada has some of the world's highest rates, according to Parkinson Canada. Its exact cause is unknown.

Current therapies only treat symptoms rather than halting the disease, said Dr. Scott Ryan, a professor in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology who led the study.

Parkinson's disease can be triggered by the misfolding of a protein called alpha-synuclein that accumulates in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra. The disease causes loss of nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine, a chemical messenger that helps control motor function.

Misfolded alpha-synuclein aggregates and eventually spreads to other parts of the brain, impairing areas responsible for other functions such as mood and cognition.

The U of G team used stem cells to model neurons with and without Parkinson's disease and look at the effects of synuclein mutations.

They discovered that in Parkinson's neurons, misfolded synuclein binds to another protein called LC3B. Normally, LC3B targets misfolded proteins to be degraded. In Parkinson's disease, the study showed, LC3 gets trapped in the protein aggregates and is inactivated.

Without degradation, the cells eject the aggregates, which then spread to nearby neurons, propagating the disease throughout the brain.

"Normally misfolded proteins are degraded. We found a pathway by which synuclein is being secreted and released from neurons instead of being degraded," said Ryan. "We hope to turn the degradation pathway back on and stop the spread of disease."

The team showed that activating LC3B restores degradation, enabling cells to clear the misfolded proteins and prevent disease spread.

"Regular protein turnover is part of a healthy cell," said Stykel. "With Parkinson's disease, that system is not working properly."

Ryan said their finding could help in devising therapies.

"We may not be able to do anything about brain regions that are already diseased, but maybe we can stop it from progressing. We might be able to turn the degradation pathway back on and stop the spread of the disease."

He cautioned that other biochemical pathways are also likely involved in the spread of the disease through the brain. Still, the finding provides a target for potential drug development.

"Most current therapies centre around increasing the release of dopamine, but that works for a brief period and has a lot of side effects," said Ryan.

This research may help improve quality of life for Parkinson's patients. Many patients are diagnosed in their 40s or 50s, meaning that they live with the progressive disease for decades.

"Reduced quality of life can be a huge burden on patients, their families and the health-care system," he said.

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Urs Peter "Upe" Flueckiger was named interim dean of the College of Architecture on Wednesday, May 27. Flueckiger is apart of the Swiss Society of Engineers and Architects.
Poor sleep impacts the risk of long-term cognitive decline in Hispanic/Latino middle aged and older adults differently than it does in non-Hispanic adults, according to research led by University of Miami Miller School of Medicine neurology faculty and the largest long-term study of U.S. Hispanic/Latinos to date.

During seven years of follow-up, Hispanics/Latinos were more likely to develop cognitive declines in processing speed, mental flexibility, and verbal memory, if they had sleep disordered breathing, such as obstructive sleep apnea, and long sleep duration of nine or more hours. The risk was especially high in middle-aged adults without metabolic syndrome and women without obesity or metabolic syndrome according to the paper recently published in Alzheimer's & Dementia, the Journal of the Alzheimer's Association.

"A surprising finding of this study of 5,500 U.S. Hispanic/Latino adults was that participants without obesity that had sleep apnea and long sleep duration had worse cognitive decline," said senior author Alberto Ramos, M.D., M.S.P.H., associate professor of neurology, and research director of the Sleep Disorders Program. "To some extent, this was like a natural experiment where we removed the effect that obesity has on cognition and saw 'the pure effect' of sleep difficulties, such as sleep apnea, and long sleep duration on cognitive health."

The work shows that the metabolic risk factors that predict neurocognitive decline in non-Hispanics are not generalizable to Hispanics, according to Sonya Kaur, Ph.D., instructor in the Division of Neuropsychology at the Miller School.

"In general, the relationship between sleep and cognition was not mediated by metabolic syndrome and obesity in Hispanics like it is in non-Hispanics," Dr. Kaur said. "For Hispanics, sleep seems to be a much stronger predictor than obesity and metabolic syndrome that are traditionally thought as predictors in terms of what causes cognitive decline in non-Hispanics."

This is important given that, compared to non-Hispanic whites, Hispanics/Latinos are at greater risk for metabolic syndrome and are at 4 times the risk of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, according to Dr. Kaur.

The findings highlight the importance of a precision medicine approach in studying and treating Hispanic/Latino patients.

"In the big picture, these findings have implications for how we can personalize treatment of sleep disorders to more effectively lessen cognitive decline, prevent neurocognitive disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and preserve brain health," Dr. Ramos said. The Miller School has long been a leader in identifying disorders and risk factors associated with dementia and Alzheimer's and Hispanic health.

"We are conducting ongoing research on the cognitive effects of migration factors and genetic risk factors in Hispanic patients, because there is evidence that genetic risk factors in non-Hispanic whites do not predict cognition decline in the same way as in Hispanics," Dr. Kaur said.

Previously, Dr. Ramos and colleagues published data showing a high prevalence of sleep disorders associated with neurocognitive dysfunction, including memory decline, in a diverse population of Hispanic/Latino participants.

"This study builds on our previous work," said Dr. Ramos, who recently was awarded a five-year $13 million grant from the National Institute on Aging (NIA) to study "Sleep in Neurocognitive Aging and Alzheimer's Research."

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The study in Alzheimer's & Dementia was done in collaboration with investigators from Wayne State University, University of California San Diego, University of Illinois at Chicago, Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, San Diego State University, Miami Veterans Association Medical Center, and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School.
The programme will provide funding and support to develop innovative technologies in the areas of surgical training, architecture, aquaculture, organ transplants, chronic pain, music learning and dermatology

Six innovative projects at UPF will receive funding and support for their development thanks to the knowledge transfer promotion programme UPF INNOValora. The UPF Business Shuttle-Innovation Unit has published the selected projects for a new edition of this programme organised to help promising technologies and knowledge generated by university research reach the production phase.

Three of the selected projects come from the Department of Experimental and Health Sciences (DCEXS), while the three remaining projects belong to the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DETIC). Each will receive 30,000 euros from the programme, co-financed by the Catalan regional government and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). In addition, a specialized external mentor will be available to the projects for consultation throughout the period of their implementation.

In this third edition of the programme, the UPF Board of Trustees will cover up to 3,000 euros of the cost of the teams' transfer, innovation and entrepreneurship training, based on their respective needs, and will also award a 5,000-euro prize to the project considered most promising in terms of its focus and expected impact on the market.

Thanks to this support, researchers can develop proofs of concept based on their innovations to accelerate their development and determine whether or not their projects have the potential to be put into practice. The implementation period of the UPF INNOValora 2021 programme will begin on 1 May and has a maximum duration of eight months.

The projects

ASTRAVAL

Minimally invasive surgery (such as brain surgery or the placement of aortic stents) is difficult to perform due to limitations regarding access, visibility and manoeuvrability. This project is for a training simulator based on techniques of medical imaging, artificial intelligence, digitization of data and mixed reality to enable surgeons to receive safe and realistic practical training for these kinds of operations.

Team: Mario Ceresa, Miguel Angel Gonzalez Ballester (head researchers) and Gemma Piella, from the BCN MedTech research unit (DETIC), in collaboration with a team led by doctor Elisenda Eixarch and the professor Eduard Gratacos, from Sant Joan de Deu Hospital.

KEYCATCH

Pathogens lead to the loss of 20% of fish populations in Spanish aquaculture facilities every year. With current infection monitoring systems, samples need to be taken from the tanks and sent to the laboratory, which is an expensive and inefficient practice. The aim of this project is to develop a system of biosensors capable of continuously monitoring pathogen levels and transmitting early warnings, without the need to take samples to the lab.

Team: Javier Macia (head researcher) and Sira Mogas, from the Synthetic Biology for Biomedical Applications research group (DCEXS).

LiverColor

It is estimated that around 30% of the livers rejected for donation in Spain could in fact be used. Today, the assessment task is performed by surgeons applying a subjective methodology, based on the visual analysis of the organs. With the aim of helping doctors be more efficient in the process of assessing livers that could be transplant candidates, this team is developing a tool based on artificial intelligence that analyses photographs of organs to help determine their suitability.

Team: Gemma Piella and Javier Vazquez (head researchers), of the SIMBIOsys and BCN MedTech research groups (DETIC), and Concepcion Gomez and Itxarone Bilbao, from the Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus.

PepCann4pain

Medicines derived from cannabis are highly effective but, today, their use is limited because of the adverse effects they cause at a cognitive level. Researchers, therefore, are developing a compound capable of blocking the harmful effects of cannabinoids while preserving their therapeutic capacity, which will enable the use of these drugs, which are so useful in dealing with problems such as chronic pain.

Team: Rafael Maldonado, (head researcher), Olga Millan, Miquel Martin, Beltran Alvarez, Pilar Ortiz and Andrea Rodriguez, from the NeuroPhar research group (DCEXS), in collaboration with David Andreu and Maria Gallo, from the Proteomics and Protein Chemistry group (DCEXS).

SkyNote

This project is developing an intelligent assistant for music learning. Using real-time audio analysis technologies, motion-tracking sensors and artificial intelligence, the project aims to provide music students a real-time evaluation on their performance while they practice their instrument, assessing aspects such as movement, intonation or rhythm, among others, thereby helping them improve their performance.

Team: Rafael Ramirez (head researcher), Sergio Giraldo and David Cabrera, from the Music Technology research group (DETIC).

Synflora

The proposal of this group is to use natural microbes from human skin and modify them genetically so they release beneficial compounds to be used in dermatological treatments. The researchers thereby hope to offer a more effective solution to dealing with certain age-related problems, as well as conditions like acne or dermatitis, for which there are currently no efficient and safe remedies.

Team: Marc Guell (head researcher), Nastassia Knodlseder, Maria Jose Fabregas, Maria Marin, Carles Taule and Lourdes Gonzalez, from the Translational Synthetic Biology research group (DCEXS).

The jury

The selection of the six projects took place on 22nd April at the end of the programme. The research groups had to defend their proposals by way of a 'pitch' to a jury comprising professionals from the areas of innovation, investment and knowledge transfer.

According to one of the jury members, innovation expert Tom Hockaday, the quality of projects presented at UPF INNOValora "is improving year after year", which is in turn a reflection of "the high research quality across all UPF's departments and the growing interest among researchers for technology and knowledge transfer".

The complete list of jury members is as follows:

Tom Hockaday, CEO of the innovation consultancy Technology Transfer Innovation.

Francisco Badia, member of the Grow Venture Partners investment fund and founding partner of the ImpulsetoGrow consultancy.

Clara Campas, managing partner and co-founder at the venture capital firm Asabys Partners.

Elena Rico, managing partner at the asset management company Impact Partners Iberica.

Luis Ruiz Avila, CEO of the companies Leukos and RUTI Immune and mentor for the innovation network EIT Health.

Luca Venza, director of technology innovation, transfer and acceleration at the IESE Business School.

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In the largest genetic analysis of depression to date, Veterans Affairs researchers identified many new gene variants that increase the risk for depression. The groundbreaking study helps researchers better understand the biological basis of depression and could lead to better drug treatments.

The study involved genetic data on more than 300,000 participants of VA's Million Veteran Program (MVP), along with more than a million subjects from other biobanks, including 23andMe. With such a large participant pool, the researchers were able to spot trends in genetic risk of depression not previously known.

Co-primary investigator Dr. Joel Gelernter, a researcher with the VA Connecticut Healthcare System and Yale University School of Medicine, explained the significance of the findings. "This study uncovered more of the genetic architecture of depression than was previously known," he said. "This implicates new regions of the genome for more targeted investigation and allows us to use this information to identify drugs that are currently approved for other indications and might be repurposed for treatment of depression."

The findings appear in the May 27, 2021, issue of the journal Nature Neuroscience.

Major depressive disorder is the most common psychiatric disorder. About 20% of the U.S. population experiences depression. Over 300 million people worldwide, 4% of the global population, have depression. For U.S. Veterans, that rate is 11%.

Previous research has shown that genetics play a large role in depression risk. To gain more insight into exactly what genes are involved, VA researchers and colleagues assembled a large dataset to perform a genome-wide association study (GWAS). A GWAS compares the genomic codes of many people to see what gene variants people with a particular condition tend to have in common. This project was the first genomic study of depression to include more than a million participants.

The researchers first analyzed the genomes of over 250,000 MVP participants of European ancestry. They then combined the findings with previous analyses from several other genetic repositories--the UK Biobank, FinnGen, and 23andMe. The other biobanks added more subjects, for a total of more than 1.2 million participants, to the primary study.

The analysis revealed 178 loci--specific parts of the genome--that are involved in a person's risk for depression. The finding includes 77 loci not detected in previous research.

The analysis also identified 223 single -nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at these 178 locations that appear to affect a person's depression risk. An SNP is a specific variation of a single DNA building block.

The researchers also examined the genomes of nearly 60,000 Veterans of African ancestry in the MVP database. They found that 125 of the SNPs identified in the European ancestry group (61%) directly affected the African ancestry participants' risk for depression.

The team validated the results by checking them against 1.3 million additional samples from 23andMe, a private genetic testing company. This check confirmed the findings of the initial analysis. By combining such large databases, the researchers were able to draw broader and more accurate conclusions. "One of the underappreciated elements of GWAS is how reproducible the findings are," explained co-lead author Dr. Daniel Levey of the VA Connecticut Healthcare System and Yale University School of Medicine. "Now that we've achieved adequate power, we are finding great consistency in findings from different groups study. We hope this consistency provides a stable foundation for new discoveries that can improve treatments."

Further analysis revealed genetic overlap between depression and several other psychiatric conditions, which has been suggested by other studies. Depression shares genetic risk factors with anxiety disorders and PTSD, as well as with risky behavior and cannabis use disorder, the study found.

The findings could be used to identify new drug therapies for treating depression, according to the researchers. By identifying what genes are involved in depression, researchers may be able to repurpose existing drugs that are known to act on these genes. For example, riluzole, a drug used to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), could be of interest for depression. It works on one of the genes identified by the MVP study.

Gelernter explained how MVP makes groundbreaking studies such as this possible. "This study, like many before it, highlights the value of the MVP sample in identifying genes for common genetic traits, especially those that are important in the veteran population. Another unique value of the MVP is that it allows us to study populations other than Europeans. We didn't find nearly as much in African-ancestry subjects as in European-ancestry, but we made a good start, and our results will be of great value in future meta-analysis efforts," he said. "This is a critical advantage of the MVP."

Together, the results greatly add to the understanding of how depression operates and who is most at risk. As the researchers explain, "This study sheds light into the genetic architecture of depression and provides new insight into the interrelatedness of complex psychiatric traits."

###

The Million Veteran Program is VA's national research program aimed at learning how genes, lifestyle, and military exposures affect health and illness. As of May 2021, nearly 840,000 Veterans have volunteered for MVP.
Woods Hole, Mass. (May 27, 2021) - With the expansion of oxygen-depleted waters in the oceans due to climate change, some species of foraminifera (forams, a type of protist or single-celled eukaryote) that thrive in those conditions could be big winners, biologically speaking.

A new paper that examines two foram species found that they demonstrated great metabolic versatility to flourish in hypoxic and anoxic sediments where there is little or no dissolved oxygen, inferring that the forams' contribution to the marine ecosystem will increase with the expansion of oxygen-depleted habitats.

In addition, the paper found that the multiple metabolic strategies that these forams exhibit to adapt to low and no oxygen conditions are changing the classical view about the evolution and diversity of eukaryotes. That classical view hypothesizes that the rise of oxygen in Earth's system led to the acquisition of oxygen-respiring mitochondria, the part of a cell that generates most of the chemical energy that powers a cell's biochemical reactions. The forams in the study represent "typical" mitochondrial-bearing eukaryotes. However, these two forams respire nitrate and produce energy in the absence of oxygen, with one colonizing an anoxic environment, often with high levels of hydrogen sulfide, a chemical compound typically toxic to eukaryotes.

"Benthic foraminifera represent truly successful microbial eukaryotes with diverse and sophisticated metabolic adaptive strategies" that scientists are just beginning to discover, the authors noted in the paper, Multiple integrated metabolic strategies allow foraminiferal protists to thrive in anoxic marine sediments appearing in Science Advances.

This is important because scientists have studied forams extensively for interpreting past oceanographic and climate conditions. Scientists largely have assumed that forams evolved after oxygen was on the planet and likely require oxygen to survive. However, finding that forams can perform the processes described "throws a whole new wrench in interpretations of past environmental conditions on Earth, driven by the foram fossil record," said co-author and project leader Joan Bernhard, senior scientist in the Geology and Geophysics Department at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI).

Bernhard said that over the past several decades she has worked to establish that forams can live where there is little or no oxygen. "We never knew exactly why forams can live where there isn't any oxygen until molecular methods got good enough that we could really start to ask some of these questions. This is our first paper that's coming out with some of these insights," she said. Bernhard added that with thousands of foram species living today, and with hundreds of thousands extinct, it is likely that this is "the tip of the iceberg" in terms of possibly discovering other metabolic strategies invoked by these forams.

Specific insights from the paper pertain to two highly successful benthic foraminiferal species that inhabit hypoxic or anoxic sediments in the Santa Barbara Basin, a sort of natural laboratory off the coast of California for studying the impact of oxygen depletion in the ocean.

Through gene expression analysis of the two species--Nonionella stella and Bolivina argentea--scientists found different successful metabolic adaptations that allowed the forams to succeed in oxygen-depleted marine sediments and identified candidate genes involved in anaerobic respiration and energy metabolism.

The N. stella is a sort of kleptomaniac, utilizing a technique to steal chloroplasts--the structure in a cell where photosynthesis occurs--from a particular diatom genus. What makes this particularly interesting is that N. stella lives well below what is considered to be the zone where photosynthesis can happen. The authors noted that there has been discussion in the literature questioning the functionality of these kleptoplasts in the Santa Barbara Basin N. stella but the new results show that these kleptoplasts are firmly functional, although exact metabolic details remain elusive.

In addition, the scientists found that the two foram species in the study use different metabolic pathways to incorporate ammonium into organic nitrogen in the form of glutamate, a metabolic strategy that was not previously known to be performed by these organisms.

"The metabolic variety suggests that at least some species of this diverse protistan group will withstand severe deoxygenation and likely play major roles in oceans affected by climate change," the authors wrote.

The study "gives the scientific community a new direction for research," said lead author Fatma Gomaa, who, at the time of the study, was a postdoctoral investigator at the Geology and Geophysics Department at WHOI. "We are now starting to learn that there are microeukaryotes living in habitats similar to those in Earth's early history that are performing very interesting biological functions. Learning about these forams is very intriguing and will shed light on how early eukaryotes evolved."

###

About Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) is a private, non-profit organization on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, dedicated to marine research, engineering, and higher education. Established in 1930, its primary mission is to understand the ocean and its interaction with the Earth as a whole, and to communicate an understanding of the ocean's role in the changing global environment. WHOI's pioneering discoveries stem from an ideal combination of science and engineering--one that has made it one of the most trusted and technically advanced leaders in basic and applied ocean research and exploration anywhere. WHOI is known for its multidisciplinary approach, superior ship operations, and unparalleled deep-sea robotics capabilities. We play a leading role in ocean observation and operate the most extensive suite of data-gathering platforms in the world. Top scientists, engineers, and students collaborate on more than 800 concurrent projects worldwide--both above and below the waves--pushing the boundaries of knowledge and possibility. For more information, please visit http://www. whoi. edu Media Contact:

Suzanne Pelisson

Associate Director, Public Relations

SPelisson@WHOI.edu

Authors: Fatma Gomaa1,2*, Daniel R. Utter2, Christopher Powers3, David J. Beaudoin1, Virginia P. Edgcomb1, Helena L. Filipsson4, Colleen M. Hansel5, Scott D. Wankel5, Ying Zhang3, and Joan M. Bernhard1*

Affiliations:

1Department of Geology and Geophysics, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA, USA

2Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA

3Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, College of the Environment and Life Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA

4Lund University, Department of Geology, Lund, Sweden.

5Department of Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA, USA

*Corresponding author
May 27, 2021 - Patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) show significant reduction in pain and other symptoms and improvement in walking gait biomechanics. However, those improvements do not lead to increased daily physical activity levels, reports a study in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery. The journal is published in the Lippincott portfolio in partnership with Wolters Kluwer.

The findings "present a worrying picture that while patients have the opportunity to be more physically active through improvements in functional capacity, their physical behaviors do not change," according to the new research, led by Jasvir S. Bahl of the University of South Australia, Adelaide, in collaboration with the University of Adelaide, Flinders University, and the Royal Adelaide Hospital. The researchers call for additional efforts to help patients get up to a healthy level of physical activity following THA.

Nearly all patients remain sedentary after THA

The prospective study included 51 patients with an average age of 66 years who underwent primary THA at a public hospital in South Australia. All procedures were performed using the same surgical technique and implant type. Prior to the procedure, data were recorded for several patient-reported domains, including hip-related symptoms, function, and quality of life.

In addition, patients underwent gait analysis and musculoskeletal modeling for in-depth analysis of biomechanics and overall walking performance. They also completed 24-hour physical activity monitoring with use of a wrist-worn activity tracker (accelerometer). In a subgroup of patients, gait analysis and activity monitoring were repeated at one and two years postoperatively.

At both follow-up times, patients reported improvements in pain and other hip-related symptoms, hip function, and everyday quality of life. Gait analysis showed improvement in almost every aspect of walking biomechanics, including walking speed and step length.

However, 24-hour activity monitoring showed little or no change in daily physical activity patterns. Both preoperatively and postoperatively, patients were sedentary or asleep for 19.5 hours of the day, on average. This finding remained significant after adjusting for age, body mass index, and occupation.

In fact, there was evidence that sedentary time increased after THA. The percentage of patients who were sedentary for more than 11 hours per day increased from 25 percent preoperatively to 31 percent at one year and 41 percent at two years postoperatively. At all assessment points, patients reported that most of their active time was spent in light physical activity.

Activity monitoring also provided information on the patient sleep time and quality. Average sleep time remained the same, at about nine hours per night. However, sleep efficiency declined year over year, from 84 percent preoperatively to 80 percent at one year and 77 percent at two years postoperatively, with less than 85 percent considered inefficient sleep.

Consistent with many previous studies, these results show that THA leads to "significant and substantial" improvements in pain, function, and quality of life. However, the present study shows that despite these improvements, few patients change their daily physical activity patterns in the two years after THA.

"Evidently, a surgical procedure alone may not enable patients to lead a more physically active lifestyle," Dr. Bahl and coauthors write. Although the study cannot draw conclusions about the reasons why physical activity did not improve, previous reports have suggested that low activity patterns may become "hard-wired" after years of physical disability. The authors also suggest that if patients have to wait several years before THA, they may become used to a more sedentary lifestyle.

Dr. Bahl and colleagues note that patients undergoing hip replacement surgery often have accompanying health conditions such as high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes that are best managed with increased physical activity and exercise. The researchers conclude: "Health-care providers must consider a multifaceted model of care, which includes patient education on the importance of reducing sedentary behaviors, and addressing a range of barriers and facilitators to increase physical activity postoperatively."

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Click here to read "Changes in 24-Hour Physical Activity Patterns and Walking Gait Biomechanics After Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty." DOI: 10.2106/JBJS.20.01679

has been the most valued source of information for orthopaedic surgeons and researchers for over 125 years and is the gold standard in peer-reviewed scientific information in the field. A core journal and essential reading for general as well as specialist orthopaedic surgeons worldwide, The Journal publishes evidence-based research to enhance the quality of care for orthopaedic patients. Standards of excellence and high quality are maintained in everything we do, from the science of the content published to the customer service we provide.is an independent, non-profit journal.

About Wolters Kluwer Wolters Kluwer (WKL) is a global leader in professional information, software solutions, and services for the clinicians, nurses, accountants, lawyers, and tax, finance, audit, risk, compliance, and regulatory sectors. We help our customers make critical decisions every day by providing expert solutions that combine deep domain knowledge with advanced technology and services.

Wolters Kluwer reported 2020 annual revenues of 4.6 billion. The group serves customers in over 180 countries, maintains operations in over 40 countries, and employs approximately 19,200 people worldwide. The company is headquartered in Alphen aan den Rijn, the Netherlands.

Wolters Kluwer provides trusted clinical technology and evidence-based solutions that engage clinicians, patients, researchers and students in effective decision-making and outcomes across healthcare. We support clinical effectiveness, learning and research, clinical surveillance and compliance, as well as data solutions. For more information about our solutions, visit https:/ / www. wolterskluwer. com/ en/ health and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter @WKHealth.
PULLMAN, Wash. -- A new fungus strain could provide a chemical-free method for eradicating mites that kill honey bees, according to a study published this month in Scientific Reports.

A team led by Washington State University entomologists bred a strain of Metarhizium, a common fungus found in soils around the world, to work as a control agent against varroa mites. Unlike other strains of Metarhizium, the one created by the WSU research team can survive in the warm environments common in honey bee hives, which typically have a temperature of around 35 Celsius (or 95 F).

"We've known that metarhizium could kill mites, but it was expensive and didn't last long because the fungi died in the hive heat," said Steve Sheppard, professor in WSU's Department of Entomology and corresponding author on the paper. "Our team used directed evolution to develop a strain that survives at the higher temperatures. Plus, Jennifer took fungal spores from dead mites, selecting for virulence against varroa."

Jennifer Han, a post-doctoral researcher at WSU, led the breeding program along with WSU assistant research professors Nicholas Naeger and Brandon Hopkins. Paul Stamets, co-owner and founder of Olympia-based business Fungi Perfecti, also contributed to the paper. Stamets is a fungi expert, well-known for using several species in applications ranging from medicine to biocontrol.

Varroa destructor mites, small parasites that live on honey bees and suck their "blood," play a large role in Colony Collapse Disorder, which causes beekeepers to lose 30-50% of their hives each year. The mites feed on bees, weakening their immune systems and making them more susceptible to viruses.

The main tools beekeepers use to fight varroa are chemicals, such as miticides, but the tiny pests are starting to develop resistance to those treatments, Naeger said.

Metarhizium is like a mold, not a mushroom. When spores land on a varroa mite, they germinate, drill into the mite, and proliferate, killing it from the inside out. Bees have high immunity against the spores, making it a safe option for beekeepers.

Stamets, who did some of the initial testing with Metarhizium that showed the fungus couldn't survive hive temperatures, was impressed by the work done by the WSU researchers.

"Science progresses through trial and error, and my technique wasn't economical because of the hive heat," he said. "But Jennifer did enormous amounts of culture work to break through that thermal barrier with this new strain. It's difficult to really appreciate the Herculean effort it took to get this."

Han and Naeger screened more than 27,000 mites for levels of infection to get the new strain.

"It was two solid years of work, plus some preliminary effort," Han said. "We did real-world testing to make sure it would work in the field, not just in a lab."

This is the second major finding to come from WSU's research partnership with Stamets involving bees and fungi. The first involved using mycelium extract that reduced virus levels in honey bees.

"It's providing a real one-two punch, using two different fungi to help bees fight varroa," Stamets said. "The extracts help bee immune systems reduce virus counts while the Metarhizium is a potentially great mite biocontrol agent."

The next step is to seek approval from the Environmental Protection Agency to use Metarhizium on hives used in agriculture. The team must also finalize delivery methods for beekeepers to apply the fungus in hives.

"We hope in 10 years that, rather than chemical miticides, Metarhizium is widely used to control Varroa mites," Sheppard said. "And that the mite problem for beekeepers has been significantly reduced."

The team thinks the methods they developed to evolve Metarhizium for varroa control could be used to improve biocontrol agents in other crop systems as well.

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The majority of the funding for this work came from private donations from individuals and foundations. Additional funding came from Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) Specialty Crop Block Grant K2531 and the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, Hatch 1007314.
New insights into the ability of DNA to overcome harmful genetic changes have been discovered by scientists at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, the University of Lausanne and their collaborators. The team found that 26 per cent of harmful mutations were suppressed by naturally occurring variants in at least one wild yeast strain. In each instance examined in detail, a single 'rescue mutation' was responsible for cancelling out another mutation that would have threatened the organism's survival.

The study, published today (27 May 2021) in Molecular Systems Biology, provides important information about how DNA variants can suppress undesirable genetic changes. If confirmed in humans, this biological phenomenon could have an important role in genetic diseases such as cancer or rare developmental disorders, and explain why certain patients suffer from more severe disease than others.

Mutations are changes to the letters of DNA that form the genetic code of multi-cellular organisms. They can be a result of errors when DNA replicates during cell division, or the influence of environmental exposures such as ultraviolet light. While most mutations will have no significant effect on how the cell functions, some can be harmful and lead to genetic diseases such as cancer. Other mutations can be beneficial and contribute to genetic diversity in a species through the natural process of evolution1.

With six billion letters of DNA in the human genome, the implications of natural genetic variation are vast. As a result, the precise effect of mutations on the function of genes and cells is not fully understood. Mutations that are harmful in one individual may have no negative effect on another. In some cases, this is because the healthy or resilient individuals carry additional mutations, called suppressors, which counteract harmful DNA changes.

In this study, researchers at the University of Toronto screened 1,106 temperature-sensitive alleles2 from 580 essential genes3 in 10 wild yeast strains to see if natural genetic variation would allow the yeast to grow when exposed to an unfavourably high temperature.

They found that 26 per cent of the 580 essential genes could be circumvented by natural variants in at least one wild yeast strain. Yeast colonies that continued to grow were then sequenced at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, in order to search for specific mutations that could be suppressing the temperature-sensitive allele.

Professor Jolanda van Leeuwen, a senior author of the paper from the University of Lausanne, said: "The proportion of harmful mutations in essential genes that could be supressed was unexpected, and because we only sampled a small fraction of wild yeast strains the percentage of mutations that can be suppressed by natural variants is likely to be much higher. The frequency of suppression suggests it could make an important contribution in other contexts as well - including, potentially, for human disease."

Researchers at the University of Lausanne examined 10 instances of suppression in detail to better understand the suppression effect and how it protected cells. To their surprise, in each case a single mutation was responsible for suppressing the temperature-sensitive allele and enabling cells to live and reproduce.

Dr Leopold Parts, a senior author of the paper from the Wellcome Sanger Institute, said: "In biology, explanations tend to be complex, so it's unusual to find a single 'smoking gun'. We might have expected a number of genes to combine to overcome a serious genetic defect like the temperature-sensitive allele, so for this to be the result of a single mutation is very surprising."

Work is already underway at the Sanger Institute to conduct a similar study in human cells to see how relevant these findings are to the human genome, using commercially available human cell lines from healthy donors. If the same biological phenomenon is at play, it could provide valuable information about how genetic diseases arise and whether 'rescue mutations' might one day help clinicians to treat these diseases.

###

Contact details:

Dr Matthew Midgley

Press Office

Wellcome Sanger Institute

Cambridge, CB10 1SA

Phone: 01223 494856

Email: press.office@sanger.ac.uk

Notes to Editors:

1 For an overview of genetic mutations, see yourgenome.org

2 An allele is a variant form of the same gene. The combination of alleles influences an individual's physical traits, such as eye colour. For more information, see yourgenome.org

3 Essential genes are those that are absolutely required for the cell to live and reproduce.

Publication:

Leopold Parts, Amandine Batte and Maykel Lopes et al. (2021). Natural variants suppress mutations in hundreds of essential genes. Molecular Systems Biology. DOI: https:/ / doi. org/ 10. 15252/ msb. 202010138

Funding:

This work was supported by Wellcome, the Swiss National Science Foundation and the Foundation for Medical Research.

Selected websites:

University of Lausanne (UNIL)

Founded in 1537, the University of Lausanne now has seven faculties and stands out as an interdisciplinary, sustainable institution that caters for more than 17,000 students and 4,500 staff. UNIL's primary focus is on the humanities and social sciences, life sciences (biology and medicine) and environmental science. Find out more at http://www. unil. ch .

The Wellcome Sanger Institute

The Wellcome Sanger Institute is a world leading genomics research centre. We undertake large-scale research that forms the foundations of knowledge in biology and medicine. We are open and collaborative; our data, results, tools and technologies are shared across the globe to advance science. Our ambition is vast - we take on projects that are not possible anywhere else. We use the power of genome sequencing to understand and harness the information in DNA. Funded by Wellcome, we have the freedom and support to push the boundaries of genomics. Our findings are used to improve health and to understand life on Earth. Find out more at http://www. sanger. ac. uk or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and on our Blog.

About Wellcome
The first ever vaccine target for trypanosomes, a family of parasites that cause devastating disease in animals and humans, has been discovered by scientists at the Wellcome Sanger Institute. By targeting a protein on the cell surface of the parasite Trypanosoma vivax, researchers were able to confer long-lasting protection against animal African trypanosomiasis (AAT) infection in mice.

The study, published today (26 May 2021) in Nature, is the first successful attempt to induce apparently sterile immunity against a trypanosome parasite. A vaccine was long thought impossible due to the sophisticated ability of the parasites to evade the host immune system. As well as a strong vaccine target for AAT, the findings raise the possibility of identifying vaccine targets for trypanosome species that cause the deadly human infections sleeping sickness and Chagas' disease.

Animal African trypanosomiasis (AAT) is a disease affecting livestock in Africa and, more recently, South America. It is caused by several species of Trypanosoma parasite, which are transmitted by tsetse flies, causing animals to suffer from fever, weakness, lethargy and anaemia. The resulting weight loss, low fertility and reduced milk yields have a huge economic impact on the people who depend on these animals. The disease has been said to lie at the heart of poverty in Africa1.

In humans, a disease called sleeping sickness is caused by infection with another trypanosome species, Trypanosoma brucei. Although control efforts have reduced the number of infections each year considerably, 65 million people remain at risk. In South America, the potentially life-threatening infection Chagas' disease is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi and affects at least 6 million people living in endemic areas2.

All trypanosome species have developed sophisticated anti-immune mechanisms that allow the parasites to thrive in their host. For example, African trypanosomes display a protein on their surface that constantly changes and prevents host antibodies from recognising the pathogen. Until now, it was thought impossible to vaccinate against trypanosome infection for this reason.

In this study, scientists at the Wellcome Sanger Institute analysed the genome of T. vivax to identify 60 cell surface proteins that could be viable vaccine targets. Each protein was produced using mammalian cell lines and then used to vaccinate mice to determine if the host immune system had been instructed to identify and destroy the T. vivax parasite.

One cell surface protein, named 'invariant flagellum antigen from T. vivax' (IFX), was observed to confer immunity against infection in almost all vaccinated mice for at least 170 days after experimental challenge with T. vivax parasites.

Dr Delphine Autheman, first author of the study from the Wellcome Sanger Institute, said: "Scientists have been searching for a way to vaccinate against animal African trypanosomiasis (AAT) since the parasite and vector were first discovered in the early 20th century. We've heard a lot about vaccines recently, but compared to a virus protozoan parasites have a huge number of proteins, making it very difficult to identify the right targets. Several of the 60 targets we tested elicited a partial immune response, but only one conferred the long-lasting protection that makes it a promising vaccine candidate."

Though drugs exist to prevent or treat AAT, many communities that require them live in remote locations that are difficult to access. Reliance on a handful of drugs, and a lack of professional expertise in their administration, are thought to be contributing to increased drug resistance in the parasites3. An effective vaccine would help to overcome some of these practical barriers.

Dr Andrew Jackson, a senior author of the study from the University of Liverpool, said: "It was considered impossible to vaccinate against trypanosome parasites because of the sophisticated immune-protective mechanisms they have evolved, so I'm delighted that we have been able to demonstrate that this can be done. Beyond the obvious benefit of a strong vaccine candidate for animal trypanosomiasis, the genome-led vaccine approach we outline in this study is one that could potentially be applied to other trypanosome species and other parasite families."

The next step will be to validate the results using a cattle model. If successful, work could begin on developing a vaccine for AAT that would be an important tool for tackling poverty in affected regions.

Dr Gavin Wright, a senior author of the study from the Wellcome Sanger Institute and the University of York, said: "This study is an important first step toward relieving the burden of animal African trypanosomiasis (AAT) on both animals and humans in Africa and South America. The protective effect of the vaccine target we identified will first need to be replicated in a cattle model, but I think we can be cautiously optimistic that in a few years' time we will have made substantial progress against this devastating disease."

Michael Pearce, AAT Programme Officer at livestock vaccine organisation GALVmed, said: "Trypanosomiasis remains a major disease challenge for livestock and farmers in Asia, Africa and South America, and is a significant human health problem in Africa and South America. Options for control and treatment of trypanosomiasis are very limited and resistance to currently available medicines is an increasing problem. These novel results from the Sanger Institute are a very important and welcome development, opening up the possibility of successful vaccine development for the prevention and control of trypanosomiasis in both humans and animals."

###

Contact details:

Dr Matthew Midgley

Press Office

Wellcome Sanger Institute

Cambridge, CB10 1SA

Phone: 01223 494856

Email: press.office@sanger.ac.uk

Notes to Editors:

1 For more details, see the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations website.

2 For more information on trypanosomiasis in humans, see the WHO website.

3 For more information on attempts to understand, control and prevent AAT, see the University of Glasgow website

Publication:

Delphine Autheman, Cecile Crosnier and Simon Clare et al. (2021). An invariant Trypanosoma vivax vaccine antigen induces protective immunity. Nature. DOI: https:/ / doi. org/ 10.1038/s41586-021-03597-x

Funding:

This work was supported by Wellcome.

Selected websites:

The Wellcome Sanger Institute

The Wellcome Sanger Institute is a world leading genomics research centre. We undertake large-scale research that forms the foundations of knowledge in biology and medicine. We are open and collaborative; our data, results, tools and technologies are shared across the globe to advance science. Our ambition is vast - we take on projects that are not possible anywhere else. We use the power of genome sequencing to understand and harness the information in DNA. Funded by Wellcome, we have the freedom and support to push the boundaries of genomics. Our findings are used to improve health and to understand life on Earth. Find out more at http://www. sanger. ac. uk or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and on our Blog.

About Wellcome
Police and federal investigators sought to determine why a Northern California transit employee opened fire on his co-workers a day earlier, killing nine people in the latest mass shooting in the United States.
Thursday, May 27, 2021

Joan Mellen, in her book A Farewell To Justice, claims that Rose Cherami was watching the Dallas motorcade on television on November 22, 1963: (page 206)

"On Friday, November 22nd, at twenty minutes before noon, Rose was watching television in the hospital recreation area. Scenes in Dallas flashed on the screen. President Kennedy was on his way.

"Somebody's got to do something!" Rose shouted. "They're going to kill the president!" No one paid any attention. The motorcade pulled into view. "Watch!" Rose cried out. "This is when it's going to happen! They're going to get him! They're going to get him at the underpass!"

"POW!" Rose yelled as the shots rang out.

Pretty creative, dialogue, no? Of course, the motorcade was not televised.

Joan Mellen got this from the following memo:

This is all so silly. Didn't Fruge already investigate? He picked up Rose Cherami from the hospital on November 27, 1963. Did no one say anything to him? Did he not ask anybody if Rose said anything after he brought her there? Did anybody in Garrison's office really believe she could have watched the motorcade on television?

Joan Mellen wasn't the only conspiracy theorist to believe this nonsense. In the July - August, 1999 issue of Probe Magazine, James DiEugenio wrote:

"At the hospital, Cheramie again predicted the assassination. On November 22nd, several nurses were watching television with Cheramie. According to these witnesses, "... during the telecast moments before Kennedy was shot Rose Cheramie stated to them, "This is when it is going to happen" and at that moment Kennedy was assassination. The nurses, in turn, told others of Cheramie's prognostication." (Memo of Frank Meloche to Louis Ivon, 5/22/67.) Although the Dallas motorcade was not broadcast live on the major networks, the nurses were likely referring to the spot reports that circulated through local channels in the vicinity of the trip."

DiEugenio actually believes this memo corroborates her supposed foreknowledge.

None of those nurses ever came forward with any information regarding Cherami. Her hospital records contain no indication she said anything about the JFK assassination.
Arlene Garcia-Marquez was awarded a $750,000 grant from the Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture on May 27. Her project, "Developing Spanish Communicative Competence among Veterinary and Animal Science Students to Improve U.S. Agriculture," responds to the challenges between veterinarians and non-English speaking animal caretakers.
Thanks to the work of TreatNOW Coalition partner Hyperbaric Services of the Palm Beaches, partner Help Our Wounded Foundation (HOW), and the Equestrian Aid Foundation, Jenn Miller (foreground) has made a full return to work thanks to HBOT, riding seven horses every morning and performing laser therapy in the afternoons.

We reprint this message with permission.

Concussion Discussion: Getting Back In the Saddle With the Help of Hyperbaric Therapy

May 25, 2021  Wellington, FL  In December of 2020, career equestrian Jenn Miller was involved in a freak accident on a Florida farm and suffered her second major traumatic brain injury. The Equestrian Aid Foundation partnered with the Help Our Wounded Foundation (HOW), a South Florida-based nonprofit that funds medical grade hyperbaric oxygen chamber treatments for people with brain injuries, to help Jenn through her recovery and back into the saddle.

Having taken the necessary time off and completed a course of medical grade hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) treatments, Jenn has regained self-sufficiency and has made a full return to work. We caught up with her and Hilary Loftus, HOWs healthcare education director, to learn more about HBOT and its possibilities for equestrians with brain injuries.



What, exactly, is HBOT?

HL: Medical grade hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves an injured individual receiving a treatment of 100 percent oxygen under pressure. This is five times the amount of oxygen in the air we breathe, and because the treatment chamber is pressurized, the oxygen molecules penetrate the cells more easily. When the head is hit, brain cells are torn and twisted and some cells just die, but around the area, others are just stunned and cannot do their jobs. HBOT can awaken these stunned cells while also combatting the chemicals produced during the injury that cause inflammation. HBOT also enhances stem cell production and promotes the growth of new vessels and capillaries.

How long does HBOT take?

JM: I went every day, so I completed 17 sessions in just under four weeks.



HL: A session itself lasts 80 minutes on average. For those with acute brain injuries, if we can get them in when the inflammation is fresh (usually within a week of their injury), three to five sessions are frequently sufficient because the chemicals that cause inflammation havent had time to run amok and create havoc in the brain circuitry. For those with chronic concussion symptoms, it takes longeron average, 20 or more sessionsto undo the damage so the brain can repair its circuitry.



Is every equestrian with a concussion a good candidate for HBOT?

JM: Ive seen the wonders a hyperbaric chamber can do on horses legs, so I was open to trying it. Even though Ive been able to move past my previous concussions, theres a lot of research out there on the negative effects of repetitive TBIs as a person gets older. If theres a chance HBOT can help my brain function for the long term, why not try it?

HL: In general, yes, but with some exceptions. For example, HBOT is not recommended for those who have a seizure disorder. Its important to realize that medical grade oxygen administered at this level of atmospheric pressure is essentially a drug. You need a prescription, and you need to treat it carefully. Thats why its so critical to be under the care of a doctor and the trained clinicians at a medically run hyperbaric facility.



Does HBOT speed up healing time?

JM: Every brain injury is just so unique, and my experiences have shown me theres no time frame for TBIs. But I can say that when I sustained my first major TBI in 2017, I was out for nine months. This time, I recovered more quickly.

HL: While theres no textbook timeline, medical grade HBOTespecially when administered within a week of a brain injuryshows incredible efficacy. Its also worth noting that HBOT has been shown to accelerate other treatment modalities athletes are using to recover, such as physical therapy.

What changes did you see as your HBOT treatments progressed?

JM: I definitely noticed a change in my ability to focus. After my fall, loud noisesany noisescould completely undo me. Also, compared to the pre-HBOT cognitive testing I did at HOW, my post-treatment testing showed improvement in almost all areas.

HL: Everyone and every brain is so different. When our brains are functioning well, they require 20 percent of our oxygen. When theres a problem, they require a lot more, which is why concussed people frequently feel so tired. As HBOT progresses and the brain heals itself, many people regain their pre-injury level of energy. One student athlete who suffered from chronic TBI symptoms told me that after he completed 15 sessions, his memory came back. Among other things, he could remember peoples names, which started after his third session.



How do I find a HBOT center in my area?



HL: I cant stress how important it is to go to a medically run center. If you need help finding one, email or call the HOW Foundation (561-450-6213) or my cell (860-227-0352).



Whats the takeaway?

JM: The brain has amazing plasticity and it can heal, given the opportunity. When it comes to concussions and TBIs, we need to treat our brains like we would treat any other injured body part: take the necessary time off and do the required therapy so your body can heal itself. Treat yourself with the same amount of care and respect you show your horses. You cant give your horses all they deserve if youre injured and not thinking straight.

HL: You only have one brain to last yourself your whole life, which is hopefully going to be a long one. So pay attention when you fall or when your head gets hit. When in doubt, if you can get to a medical grade HBOT center with a prescription from your physician or the HBOT physician, do it. When your brain is messed upand maybe subsequently your balance, emotions, and visionyou can cause more injury than youre already dealing with, both to yourself and your horse. Medical grade HBOT can help people fulfill their real potential rather than having to live with a diminished new normal.



About HOW Foundation of South Florida

The HOW Foundation of South Florida is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals, families, and communities by advocating for and providing access to medical grade hyperbaric oxygen therapy for people with brain injuries. Located in Delray Beach, their comprehensive team of distinguished medical professionals and staff have created partnerships and fostered connections to advance safe and effective access to hyperbaric therapy not only in South Florida but across the United States.

The Equestrian Aid Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

The Equestrian Aid Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides emergency financial grants to members of the equestrian community who are struggling to overcome catastrophic illness, injury, or other unforeseen crises. Since its inception in 1996, EAFs grassroots network of horsemen helping horsemen has granted over $3.2 million in direct financial aid to equestrians in crisis. Its needs-based support provides assistance with essential expenses to riders, trainers, farriers, grooms, horse farm owners and other equestrians who need a helping hand to get back on their feet and back to work. For more information, please visit EquestrianAidFoundation.org.

Our Contact Information

Equestrian Aid Foundation

11924 West Forest Hill Blvd

Suite 10A-377

Wellington, FL 33414

800-792-6068

http://EquestrianAidFoundation.org

The information provided by TreatNOW.org does not constitute a medical recommendation. It is intended for informational purposes only, and no claims, either real or implied, are being made.
The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday unanimously ruled against the city of San Antonio in its bid to get out of paying more than $2 million in legal costs to online travel booking companies.

In an opinion authored by Associate Justice Samuel Alito, the court affirmed a May 2020 decision of the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals that upheld a lower court ruling directing the city to pay the companies about $2.2 million.

We are disappointed, City Attorney Andy Segovia said in a statement, adding that San Antonio will explore all options to recoup costs.

The case stems from litigation that began in 2006 when San Antonio, on behalf of 173 Texas cities, filed a class-action lawsuit against 11 companies including Hotels.com, Expedia Inc., Orbitz and Priceline.com. The cities accused the companies of underpaying hotel occupancy taxes, costing the cities millions in revenue.

In 2009, a federal jury awarded the cities $20.5 million. A U.S. District Court judge in San Antonio subsequently entered a judgment of about $55 million.

On ExpressNews.com: U.S. Supreme Court hears San Antonios challenge to $2M court tab owed to online travel companies

The companies quickly secured nearly $69 million in bonds to stay the judgment while they appealed. The figure included the judgment amount plus 18 months of interests and costs.

The U.S. District Court approved the bonds, which were later increased to $84 million at the city of San Antonios urging to cover costs of post-trial motions.

The online travel companies prevailed on their appeal, with the 5th Circuit ruling in 2017 they had not underpaid the hotel occupancy taxes.

With victory in hand, the companies sought to have San Antonio pay almost $2.4 million in costs associated with the case. About $2 million was related to the cost of the bonds so the companies could appeal the jury verdict. The city opposed the request, arguing in a 2018 court filing that it would be grossly unfair to foist these costs on San Antonio taxpayers.

In a 2019 decision, Chief U.S. District Court Judge Orlando Garcia awarded the companies about $2.2 million, or roughly 95 percent of what they wanted.

The city then appealed Garcias decision.

A three-judge panel of the 5th Circuit ruled the lower court correctly recognized that it lacked the discretion to deny or reduce the appeal bond costs. The city asked the 5th Circuit to reconsider the ruling, but the court denied the request by a 10-6 vote.

So the city asked the Supreme Court to take up the dispute, a request granted in January.

The court last month heard arguments via telephone because of the pandemic. The question presented to the Supreme Court: whether district courts have discretion to deny or reduce appellate costs deemed payable under a federal appellate rule.

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Dallas attorney Daniel Geyser represented the city, telling the justices the rule authorizes district courts discretion in denying or reducing such costs. Other federal appeals courts have agreed, he added.

The 5th Circuits contrary position ignores the rules plain language, makes nonsense of its structure, invites a host of obvious practical problems and, if adopted here, would dramatically upset settled practices in every single jurisdiction nationwide, Geyser said, according to a transcript of the proceedings.

The nine justices ruled the federal appellate rule does not permit a district court to alter a court of appeals allocation of the costs. They described as overblown the citys concerns that appellate courts are not well-positioned to make cost allocations.

Most appellate costs are readily estimable, rarely disputed and frankly not large enough to engender contentious litigation in the great majority of cases, the courts opinion stated.

There is no reason to think that litigants and courts will be forced to operate without any sense of the magnitude of the costs at issue, it added. Indeed, San Antonio admits that it was largely aware of the costs of the bonds in this case when they were approved.

Segovia addressed the original ruling in his statement.

At the time, the court ruled in favor of the cities involved that online travel companies should use pricing to the consumer to comply with the Citys hotel occupancy taxes, he said.

Now, the city will work to reduce the cost to taxpayers for pursuing the litigation. The city filed this suit under a contingency fee agreement with outside counsel and we will explore all options to recoup costs, Segovia said.

pdanner@express-news.net
A La Quinta Inn and Suites on San Antonios Northeast Side is overtaking most downtown hotels on the road to recovery from the pandemic.

The 92-room hotel, located off Interstate 35, racked up revenue of $71.15 per room and an occupancy rate of nearly 80 percent in the first quarter, outperforming 59 of 63 downtown properties, according to Source Strategies, a San Antonio-based hotel consulting firm.

And it wasnt alone. As a group, Northeast Side hotels, including locations in Schertz, Selma and Live Oak, outshone most of their center-city counterparts in the first three months of the year.

The conventional wisdom  that San Antonios glitzier downtown hotels are the regions busiest money-makers  didnt hold up.

Paul Vaughn, senior vice president at Source Strategies, said properties off I-35 are popular with itinerant workers and families who feel safer taking road trips, thanks to the proliferation of COVID-19 vaccines.

The properties are visible from the heavily-traveled highway and conveniently located for quick trips to local destinations, such as SeaWorld or Six Flags, outlet stores in San Marcos or Austin.

The hotels are near a lot of residential and shopping areas, Vaughn said.

Newness also counts in attracting guests. Vaughn said newly-built hotels off I-35 are seeing some of the highest occupancies in the San Antonio area and are able to charge higher rates.

The high-performing La Quinta opened in May 2019. In the first quarter of 2020, as the pandemic began throttling the citys tourism industry, the properties recorded revenue of $59.42 per room and an occupancy rate of 62 percent.

Nalini Patel, the hotels co-owner and general manager, said appealing to construction workers and maintaining a continental breakfast and other services during COVID-19 helped the hotel fill rooms.

Before the COVID-19 outbreak, the hotel had attracted business travelers during the week and families on the weekends. Patel and her staff had to change their game plan when the pandemic arrived.

We adjusted our focus and are seeing more long-term guests, she said. Construction crews have been a big part of our business.

To attract longer-term guests, the hotel initially cut its rates by more than half, offering rooms as low as $52 a night in 2020. But Patel has been able raise rates to an average of $80 as occupancy has picked up over the last few months.

The hotels total revenue of $589,000 in the latest quarter was a sharp improvement over the $491,000 it recorded in the same period the year before.

Taken together, the I-35 hotels saw revenue per room increase 3.6 percent from a year ago, according to Source Strategies. Compared with the first quarter of 2019, revenue was down only 12.6 percent in the latest quarter.

Downtown hotels, on the other hand, saw a 42.3 percent drop in revenue in the first quarter from the same period the year before  and a 58.8 percent plunge from the first quarter of 2019.

Overall, San Antonio-area hotels reached a 52.2 percent occupancy rate in the first quarter, down from 55.5 percent a year ago. They brought in revenue per room of $45.92, or $14.58 less than in the first quarter of 2020.

In the first three months of 2019, occupancy rates averaged 67.2 percent and the average room rate was $79.06.

The San Antonio hotel industry hit rock bottom in the three months ending June 30, 2020, and has been slowly clawing its way back since then.

Occupancy rates averaged a harrowing 31.6 percent in the 2020 second quarter, and revenue per room fell to $23.20 on average.

Inner-city hotels are still in trouble, according to Source Strategies data. They

saw revenue of $51.85 per room in the first quarter, compared with $89.82 in the same quarter last year and $125.72 in the first quarter of 2019.

The downtown hotels have been devastated, Vaughn said. The hits to their operations over the last year have been three times worse than the fallout from the Great Recession, which ended in 2009, he added.

The hotels laid off thousands of employees in the wake of COVID-19.

Many of them are full-service hotels with restaurants and large staffs  costlier to run than most of the hotels along I-35, which dont feature in-house restaurants and employ a smaller number of workers.

Patels La Quinta operates with 12 employees. The general manager said she didnt lay off any of her workers during the pandemic.

We all pulled together, she said.

Despite the weak overall showing of hotels in and around downtown, Hotel Emma at the Pearl remained the areas top revenue-generating property in the first quarter, according to Source Strategies.

The luxury hotel pulled in $247.30 per room in the first quarter  down from $256.72 the year before  with an occupancy rate of 63.3 percent, down from 69.3 percent in the first three months of 2020. It recorded total revenue of $3.2 million in the latest quarter.

In early 2019, Hotel Emma saw revenue per room of $304.58 and an occupancy rate of 81.6 percent.

Vaughn said the hotel is in a class by itself and has been able to survive the pandemic better than most downtown-area properties.

Hotel Emma CEO Bill Petrella said the hotel has made up some of the loss of business travelers by hosting more Texas residents taking road trips to San Antonio.

We are seeing a lot more regional travel, he said.

Petrella said occupancy is creeping back up. But he doesnt expect a full recovery until 2022, when more business travelers are expected to return.

randy.diamond@express-news.net
The most common values-investing category, one that has exploded in popularity in recent years, is known as ESG, which is short for environmental, social and governance.

Because Im a grumpy old person when it comes to investing, Ive never met an ESG fund I liked. The costs are too high, or the social filter too diffuse, or the performance too weak, or I just dont believe it works either as an investment strategy or an expression of my values.

That basic grumpiness hasnt changed, but this spring Ive had some new thoughts about values-based investing.

Lets start with what should have been a bombshell in March but went barely noticed by the investing public. In USA Today, contributor Tariq Fancy wrote an opinion piece with the provocative headline Financial world greenwashing the public with deadly distraction in sustainable investing practices.

He wrote: In truth, sustainable investing boils down to little more than marketing hype, PR spin and disingenuous promises from the investment community.

Those are some fighting words. Why is he so down on ESG investing?

Oh, Im sorry. Did I forget to mention who Tariq Fancy is? Hes former chief investment officer of Sustainable Investing at BlackRock. BlackRock is the largest asset manager in the world, with $8.7 trillion in assets. Its made its name in recent years as the highest profile investment company in the push toward ESG investing.

In other words, Fancy is not some mildly informed crank popping off in a weekly business column. Ahem. He was the main guy at the biggest firm doing the thing itself on the largest scale. And hes saying its garbage. I cant really figure out why this wasnt a bigger deal.

OCI Solar Power

His message is that investment firms are engaging in marketing hype with ESG funds but not moving nearly fast enough to address climate change. He also argues that the hype is dangerous because ESG has no real-world impact. Anyway, I think this messenger and message deserve more attention. If you are convinced ESG is a great and effective thing to do, I guess I would ask how you know better than Tariq Fancy.

But there have been some other developments.

Traditional ESG investing tends to be associated with left-of-center politics. Lately, thats mostly because of a preference for renewable energy over fossil fuels, which is often interpreted as a political preference. ESG funds sometimes include pro-union policies, social goals such as fair trade or governance issues such as pay inequality, all of which tend to be embraced by the current-day left rather than the current-day right.

In reaction to that, the Trump administration last fall set out to forbid ESG funds as investment options within traditional workplace retirement plans through a Department of Labor ruling.

Specifically, the ruling requires plan fiduciaries to select investments and investment courses of action based solely on financial considerations relevant to the risk-adjusted economic value of particular investment or investment course of action.

Translation: Only financial, not social or ethical criteria, may be applied to retirement account options. Hence, no ESG. Which, taken at face value, is how I personally approach investing. But its clear, at least to me, that the Trump administration was acting on an anti-left agenda with the ruling.

On ExpressNews.com: Taylor: Trumps assault on socially responsible investing

Somewhat as expected, President Bidens Department of Labor announced in March it will not enforce the ban on ESG investing within workplace retirement accounts.

Weve also learned recently that conservative-leaning investors have new options and opportunities to express their own values and political views. The Wall Street Journal reported this month on the growth of right-of-center funds launched by allies of the Trump administration.

Andy Puzder is a businessman who was nominated as Trumps secretary of labor but withdrew after questions arose about employing an undocumented housekeeper. He serves on the advisory board of 2ndVote Advisers LLC. It recently launched right-leaning exchange traded funds, which he describes as an investment option for unwoke investors.

In April, American Conservative Values ETF dropped Delta and Coca-Cola from its approved investment list after both issued corporate statements in opposition to Georgias new voting laws.

A third fund highlighted in the Wall Street Journal specifically seeks anti-abortion themed investments and pro-Second Amendment investments.

Theres a delightfully dumb irony in Trump allies creating their own right-of-center investment funds in light of that administrations moves in November. But first, I should answer your question about whether its a better idea to invest in right-of-center funds: Candidly, they strike me as garbage-y as traditional ESG funds.

But, oh, the irony.

For conservatives like Puzder  the labor secretary nominee who would no doubt have been responsible for trying to ban ESG in the Trump administration  to pitch right-of-center social-values investing instead is just goofy.

Everyone should be welcome to express their values through their investments. It shouldnt be illegal. With the new Department of Labor guidance, it remains allowable. It also remains unwise.

Michael Taylor is a columnist for the San Antonio Express-News and author of The Financial Rules for New College Graduates.

michael@michaelthesmart

money.com | twitter.com/michael_taylor
File photo

Victims of a fraud that involved former state Sen. Carlos Uresti will receive at least $171,000 from the proceeds of the sale of a Shavano Park estate that had been owned by his co-defendant.

The restitution is part of a settlement reached in a long-running dispute over proceeds from the sale of the house at 414 Bentley Manor. The house had been owned by Gary Cain, who was convicted with Uresti by a federal jury in 2018.
Each red paper heart at a new downtown memorial honors the life of a loved one who died from COVID-19. More than 3,400 were hung as part of the Deep in Our Hearts COVID-19 memorial at East Market and South Alamo.

Faith leader Ann Helmke led the dedication, which was attended by more than 60 residents, dignitaries and family members of those who died. She said the memorial at Hemisfair is a chance to come together and begin to heal collectively.

Its also a chance, Helmke said, to remember  to actually see the amount of loss but also to encourage people that, We are not done yet.

Rows of the red hearts with handwritten messages lined a chain-link fence Thursday as motorists honked their horns in a show of support. Piles of bouquets and silk-bowed flower arrangements left by relatives and friends began to grow beneath messages left for mothers, fathers, sons and daughters.

We love & miss you so much grammy! relatives wrote to Cathy Peeler. Olga Gomez will forever be in her familys heart. Roman Gonzales Jr.s family left a heartfelt, sports-themed sentiment of We Love You! Go Cowboys!

On ExpressNews.com: Get the latest update on coronavirus and a tracking map of U.S. cases

Kin Man Hui /Staff photographer

The memorial will be open for public viewing Memorial Day weekend and through June. Family members are invited to write prayers and names, bring flowers and attach photos at the site while its on display.

JoAnne M. Ramirez was among family members who lost a loved one. She remembered the last family photo taken with her late mother.

My mom was my rock, Ramirez said. I know my mom is watching over us and with us in spirit.

Before the event, Sharon Swisher pointed out the heart she dedicated to her husband Joseph Swisher, who died at 80 from the coronavirus. She remembered her husband as a compassionate man who was also an Army veteran, minister and grandfather to a 6-year-old grandson.

Swisher said her husband was waiting for his vaccination days before he died.

I just want to be able to continue telling his story and, as they say, shout it from the mountaintop or the low valleys, she said. I will continue to be that voice for our community to say the vaccine is so important. Regardless of race, color, creed, nationality or religion, take it  it saves lives.

Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff, City Councilwoman Adriana Rocha Garcia and Mayor Ron Nirenberg thanked the audience and the community for their perseverance during the challenges of the past year.

Wolff said the virus has touched every family. He said the threat isnt gone yet, but there has been a decrease in numbers, and theres one reason for that  vaccinations.

On ExpressNews.com: Editorial: Signs of end of COVID-19 encouraging, not simple

Garcia paid homage to all the people lost during the pandemic, including several family members and two church family members. Being part of a community that feels like an extended family made the tragic events hit even closer to home for her.

We have forever lost a piece of our hearts, Garcia said. Our loved ones are and will remain deep in our hearts.

Nirenberg said the work done today will set the stage for how the next generation will cope with the next pandemic.

Our children are watching, he said. And their lives will be greatly influenced by the work we do today to protect ourselves and each other.

Nirenberg thanked the family members who attended the event and shared their stories. Resident Allee Wallaces wife, Doris, was the first recorded COVID-related death in San Antonio. The mayor said itd been a hard walk since then, but they dedicated the walk to everyone in attendance and across the city.

We have to remind ourselves that the sun also rises, Nirenberg said as sunlight streamed through the clouds. And hopefully, today marks the first step that we get to enjoy that sun.

On ExpressNews.com: To serve until I die - Retired Army pediatrician strives to help the poor, homeless and victims of COVID

The dedication closed with Vanessa Quezada beating a drum and Gerardo Omar Marin playing a flute as musical prayers to the departed. After the ceremony, Frank Trevino placed a hand on the photos of his two cousins, Richard Uribe and Rosa Marie Chapa, that he had taped to two hearts.

Trevino was driving past the memorial Wednesday afternoon as volunteers were stringing the last hearts to the fence. After learning about the reason for the site, Trevino drove home and printed photos of his cousins. When he returned to the fence line, he selected hearts, side by side, and wrote farewells beneath the faces of the cousins he loved like a brother and sister.

Miss you Cuz, he wrote to Uribe.

Miss you Sweetie, he wrote to Chapa.

vtdavis@express-news.net
Sandra Bullocks FBI agent Gracie Hart may be in need of a makeover in the hit 2000 comedy Miss Congeniality, but San Antonio is pageant-ready from the start.

The Alamo City is introduced with the kind of glamorous montage  the Alamo, the Majestic Theatre marquee, a barge on the River Walk  typically seen on TV when the city hosts sporting events like the Final Four. The Chamber of Commerce must have cheered.

The tourism value is priceless, Kathy Rhoads, then the director of the San Antonio Film Commission, told the Express-News before the film crew came to town. Especially since its set in San Antonio.

Bass Concert Hall at the University of Texas at Austin stands in for the Convention Center, but otherwise, its all S.A.

Miss Congeniality doesnt really go any deeper into the city than those tourist hot spots, but its not a deep movie. Gracie Hart is a just-one-of-the-guys agent who goes undercover as a beauty queen to stop a terrorist attack on the Miss United States Pageant. Her hair is a mess, she can throw a punch, and she clomps when she walks. But still, its Sandra Bullock, and only in a Hollywood comedy would she require the assistance of a team of highly specialized federal manicurists to pass as Miss New Jersey.

Express-News file photo

Bullock produced the movie, so clearly she was OK with eye-rolling lines like this one, delivered by a pageant consultant played by Michael Caine: Ive taken a woman without a discernible smidgen of estrogen and turned her into a lady.

In fact, she was game for a lot, including stashing Shipley doughnuts in her bikini top and cooing Gracies singsong taunt of a fellow agent (Benjamin Bratt)  You think Im gorgeous. You want to kiss me  which lives on today in GIFs across the internet. (Director Donald Petrie told E! News that Bullock improvised the lines.)

And, of course, Bullock went full The Lawrence Welk Show for the movies best-known and most baffling scene, the talent preliminaries in front of the Alamo, playing Laras Theme from Doctor Zhivago on water glasses while wearing a bright red dirndl.

The set was closed to the public when the Alamo scenes were shot on May 31, 2000, but that didnt stop fans from flocking to Alamo Plaza for a glimpse of Bullock or her famous co-stars Candice Bergen, who played the pageant director, and William Shatner, cast as the Bert Parks-like master of ceremonies.

William Shatner looked so friendly, one onlooker told the Express-News. I wanted to holler Capt. Kirk, but I didnt.

Express-News file photo

Nighttime scenes of the pageants preliminary swimsuit and interview segments were shot next at the Arneson River Theatre and showed off downtown at its best, with the San Antonio River shimmering in front of the Arneson stage and the Tower Life Building glowing in the background.

This city is gorgeous. You want to live here.

It was pageantry, and it was likely Gracies friendship with winsome Miss Rhode Island (Heather Burns) rather than the FBI-based plot that made the movie a critic-proof hit. Miss Congeniality opened at No. 5 the weekend of Dec. 22 but moved up a couple of notches in the following weeks, eventually earning about $107 million.

The movie ended a lull in Bullocks career that had followed a string of successes such as Speed, While You Were Sleeping and A Time to Kill. She didnt have a movie break $100 million for about three years after Speed 2. But after Miss Congeniality, she was transformed for a time into a romantic comedy heroine. Two Weeks Notice with Hugh Grant in 2002 and The Proposal in 2009 with Ran Reynolds were both hits.

San Antonio was on a hot streak, too. Movies such as Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls, Selena and The Newton Boys had just used the city as a location. And Spy Kids was on the way.

But none of them said, Here she is, Miss San Antonio quite like Miss Congeniality.

Where to see it: Miss Congeniality is available to buy and rent from streaming services such as iTunes and Amazon Prime.

jkiest@express-news.net | Twitter: @en_salife
Last month, I named San Antonios Top 15 Burgers, all meat and cheese and glory. Its time to take a carnivores holiday and account for the citys Top 10 Veggie Burgers.

More than just a list, the Top 10 tells the story of people turning to plant-based diets for their health and for the planet, people like Renee Talamantes and Jacob Onofre, who opened the vegan burger joint Blissful Burgers in January of last year.

For Talamantes and Onofre, a couple who met when she was his manager at McDonalds, the shift to veganism began four years ago while they were eating pizza (with meat) and watching the Netflix documentary What the Health, a controversial exploration of how government and animal-based food producers influence what we eat and how to pursue healthier eating habits.

We said, Why cant we do that?  Talamantes said. And so they did, not just going vegan themselves, but hatching a plan that led to Blissful Burgers on South Zarzamora Street near Nogalitos Street on the citys Southwest Side.

Blissful Burgers throws all the indulgence and guilty pleasure of eating at McDonalds and Whataburger into an animal-friendly menu that includes fries, patty melts, vegan bacon, even a secret sauce that screams Big Mac. Their goal is part practical, part evangelical  a bid to bring healthier options to an underserved part of the city.

Our goal isnt to hit the vegans. Its to hit the nonvegans, Talamantes said. If we can do that, we can help people make healthier choices.

Along with the nine other burger joints on this list, theyre making it happen, one burger at a time.

On ExpressNews.com: The 15 best burgers in San Antonio

Mike Sutter /Staff

10. Marks Outing: Beyond Beef Burger. Beyond Meat is an acquired taste. Just ask my Taste Team colleague Chuck Blount, who compared it to the smell of a yoga mat. But the vegan meat substitute has taken over veggie burger menus everywhere because it sears, bleeds and (with the right dose of salt, pepper and bling) even tastes like beef. Nobody does it bigger than this East Side institution, with the option of doubling up the patties and adding traditional Swiss cheese and all the classic burger fixings to rival the big beef burgers it does so well. 1624 E. Commerce St., 210-299-8110, marksouting.com

Mike Sutter /Staff

9. Go Vegan: Go Vegan Burger. As the sun sets on The Block SA food truck park near the University of Texas at San Antonio, the golden-hour light lends an appetizing glow to this perfectly seared, simple burger from a weathered orange trailer, built with Beyond Beef on a wheat bun with the option of vegan American cheese that melts as golden as the sun. 14530 Roadrunner Way ,at The Block SA food truck park, 210-729-5400, govegansatx.com

Mike Sutter /Staff

8. Bunz Handcrafted Burgers: Vegan Bunz. Like a few others on this list, Bunz also scored a place on the Top 15 Burgers list, a credit to the deft layering of flavors by chefs Thierry Burkle and Edwin Salazar. The Vegan Bunz reflects that same flavor-layering skill, starting with a Beyond Meat patty, then piling on smoky vegan bacon, melted vegan cheddar, roasted poblano peppers and avocado. 122 E. Houston St., 210-354-3555, tastybunz.com

Mike Sutter /Staff

7. Bigz Burger Joint: The Big Veggie. A giant portobello mushroom can make for a tough, chewy burger patty, so Bigz solves that problem by crosshatching it with a knife before cooking it the mushroom equivalent of medium well. Its a natural medium for absorbing the flavors of the beer-braised onions piled on top, and they finish it out with a lush green fan of sliced avocado. 10106 Texas 151, 210-543-2029; 2303 N. Loop 1604 W., 210-408-2029; bigz-burgerjoint.com

Mike Sutter /Staff

6. Green Vegetarian Cuisine: Big Nasty. They call it the Big Nasty, but its one of most cultured burgers on this list, with a moist chickpea patty made in-house, vegetarian bacon, traditional cheddar cheese, mushrooms and avocado. Its like eating a falafel wrap on a sturdy wheat bun, minus the heavy fried feeling afterward. 255 E. Basse Road, Building R940, at Alamo Quarry Market, 210-320-5865; 10003 NW Military Highway, Suite 2115, at the Alon Town Centre, 210-233-1249; eatatgreen.com

On ExpressNews.com: The 6 best meatless, plant-based veggie burgers to grill up this Memorial Day weekend

Mike Sutter /Staff

5. Burgerteca: La Veggie. Lets take a minute to salute chefs like Burgerteca owner Johnny Hernandez who make their own veggie patties from scratch. This one glows with the aura of roasted red beets, fortified with corn, poblanos, queso fresco and barley. Dressed with shredded cabbage and avocado crema, the burger skillfully channels the colorful spirit of this Mexican-focused burger joint. 403 Blue Star, Suite 105, 210-635-0016, Facebook: @Burgerteca

Mike Sutter /Staff

4. Earth Burger: Earth Burger. The boxy buildings and drive-thrus suggest fast food, and Earth Burger is certainly fast. But the comparisons stop there on the menu of this locally owned chain selling vegan burgers, vegan chicken tenders and sides like edamame and kale salad. The roasted quinoa burgers nice, but Earth Burgers signature model takes Beyond Meat to a higher place, seared juicy, fast and fresh with vegetables so pretty they look professionally styled instead of whipped out on a fast-food line. Multiple locations, earthburger.com

Mike Sutter /Staff

3. The Good Kind: Veggie Burger. Black beans, black rice, quinoa, tapioca flour and veggie puree form a colorful quilt on this burger from chef Tim McDiarmid, who specializes in making healthy things taste great. It holds together like beef, but doesnt care about acting like it, and it tastes just as good on its own terms, helped along by pickled red onions and housemade aioli. 1127 S. St. Marys St., 210-801-5892, eatgoodkind.com

Mike Sutter /Staff

2. The Cove: Vegan Texas. The Cove doesnt just pay lip service to its healthy reputation. The Vegan Texas is built with a firm, well-seasoned patty of mushroom, sunflower seeds and brown rice, then pimped out like a San Antonio bean burger with cashew queso, refried beans, tortilla chips, avocado and salsa. Another great offering from the makers of the Blue Bison Burger, which made it onto the Top 15 list. 606 W. Cypress St., 210-227-2683, thecove.us

Mike Sutter /Staff

1. Blissful Burgers: The Classic. At Blissful, The Classic does the best thing you can do with Beyond Meat: Pat it out in small, thin patties, then pile two of those patties with vegan American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, red onion and mustard. The smaller patties allow for a better sear ratio and smarter flavor harmony with the rest of the burger. I wont call it a Big Mac. Lets say inspired by  and inspirational. 3950 S. Zarzamora St., 210-239-5830, blissfulburgers.net

msutter@express-news.net | Twitter: @fedmanwalking | Instagram: @fedmanwalking
Restoring a historical home to its former glory takes care and thoughtfulness. Restoring one to make it into a modern office space while still protecting its historical integrity adds an extra layer of complexity to the process.

Thats the architectural needle Logan and Lissette Fullmer recently threaded as they converted an almost 140-year-old home in the Government Hill neighborhood into a modern workspace that retains much of its Old World charm.

A lot of times when you try to combine the modern with the old they collide, Logan said. So was important to us to maintain the integrity of the property because its part of the story of such a culture-rich city. Making it functional for modern-day use was a challenge.

The couple bought the property in 2018. Their real estate company, Asset Resolution Partners, occupies the ground floor and they lease out the second floor.

Logan describes the homes condition when they bought it as a beautiful mess. Vacant for five years, the drop ceilings had collapsed, insulation was spilling down, and a blanket of dust and dirt covered everything. And, they soon discovered, even more trouble lay beneath the surface.

Courtesy Logan Fullmer

The Victorian-Gothic Revival was built in 1884 as the lavish homestead of Col. C.C. Gibbs, a former Confederate soldier and a San Antonio business magnate who also built the Gibbs Building, the citys original high-rise, in 1909 at the corner of Houston and Alamo streets. Today, that downtown building is home to the Hotel Gibbs.

William Luther /Staff photographer

The house hit a rough patch in the 90s when it went through a succession of owners and was cut up into as many as 12 apartments. At one point it was scheduled to be demolished, but the previous owner convinced the city to spare it by promising to do a substantial renovation in 2000. That work included foundation and roof repairs, window replacement and other structural work.

The sad part is, he didnt maintain it after that, Logan said.

On ExpressNews.com: Inside a Hondo dome house thats home to humans, not Hobbits

Despite the disarray, the couple say they could see beauty beneath it all.

William Luther /Staff photographer

We walk through houses all the time that we think are pretty when everyone else is like, Uh, no thank you, Lisette said.

They also liked the home because it is close to downtown, the Pearl and highways. And at almost 5,500 square feet, it had all the space they needed.

The couple say theyre unsure how many bedrooms the house had when it was built. But with three chimneys, each supporting two fireplaces, it could have had as many as six.

Work began on what would became a $300,000 renovation in early 2019. First, the ground floor was cleaned up so their five-person office staff could move in and begin working.

When we started we didnt even have air conditioning, he said. They deserved hazard pay.

Courtesy Logan Fullmer

Once that was done, they turned their attention to repairing and restoring the wood exterior, which had suffered extensive rain damage during the time the building sat empty. Initially, the condition didnt seem so bad. But the closer they looked, the more they realized how much needed to be done. Logan compares it to catching a sweater on a nail.

William Luther /Staff photographer

As you were fixing one thing, youd find something else that needed fixing, he said. It would all just unravel, like pulling on a string.

They started with the facade, which was so rotted they had to replace about a quarter of the boards with new lumber. But replacing the water-damaged boards wasnt as simple as running down to Home Depot. The originals were not a standard style, so replacements had to be custom milled.

Then, while doing those repairs, they discovered the upstairs porch was in such bad condition, they had to replace all the joists, the floorboards and the beams. Next, they found about two-thirds of the corbels above the porch had to be taken out.

On ExpressNews.com: 150-year-old Fredericksburg ranch house transformed into a chic Airbnb

William Luther /Staff photographer

It took about six months to complete the exterior work, but the result is a striking, gray-with-white-trim house that stands out in the neighborhood of mostly modest bungalows. Although gray was not the homes original color, they were happily surprised when the citys Office of Historic Preservation OKd the look.

Truthfully, Im not really sure why they approved it, Logan said. Maybe because we presented a really good diagram and maybe they thought it would still be tasteful.

Inside, they had to balance their desire to protect the historical integrity of the house with the need to create an office space for the 21st century.

The front entryway is handsomely appointed with plenty of wood, from the oak flooring to the trim to the stairway that swoops up to the second floor. During the renovation of this area, Logan discovered that some of the handrail spindles dont quite match.

Pointing to one slightly mismatched pair, he said, One of these is original, and ones a reproduction. But we dont know which is which. But this tells you the kind of care that was taken, probably during that 2000 restoration.

William Luther /Staff photographer

They replaced the recessed ceiling light in the foyer with a modern hanging fixture, although Lisette said shed like something different.

I would have done a vintage chandelier, she said. Maybe one day.

In addition to being completely updated, all but one of the six first-floor offices retain the original, rich wood trim, tall, custom-made windows and, in some, the wood- and/or marble-faced fireplaces.

One sacrifice made to modernity  and their budget  was keeping the drop ceilings throughout much of the building. While theres another 2 feet of space above them, that was needed to run ductwork, electrical wiring and computer cables.

The drop ceiling is my least favorite thing about the whole building, Logan conceded. But once we looked at what it would cost to run everything through the walls, we decided there wasnt any other way.

William Luther /Staff photographer

Two large pocket doors, which they believe to be original, separate one of the offices from their company conference room, which combines an interesting mix of old and new. This includes a TV on the wall and a wood table at least 75 years old that they topped with a heavy piece of glass.

William Luther /Staff photographer

We like how you can see the old part of the table through the new part, he said.

The five offices upstairs are occupied by the advertising and public relations firm TradeCraft, which, with the couples approval, did all its own interior decorating.

William Luther /Staff photographer

They did the kind of design work Im not capable of, Logan said, adding with a laugh, Thats why we work with a designer.

As on the first floor, much of the historical detailing coexists nicely with modern office amenities. One fun detail is the Yes definitely affirmation spelled out in hex tile on one of the bathroom floors.

But the highlight here is the second-floor porch, a huge space that wraps around two sides of the house, overlooks the neighborhood below, and is wide enough for holiday and family parties. While restoring the house, workers discovered that the six large columns that run the length of the porch were not crafted from single pieces. Instead they were made with length of 4-by-4 or 8-by-8 lumber covered with concrete.

We had to decide: How far do we want to go in restoring them? he said. Do we replace them? In the end we just left them there.

William Luther /Staff photographer

rmarini@express-news.net | Twitter: @RichardMarini
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden is expected to announce he is nominating former senior State Department official Nicholas Burns to serve as his ambassador to China and Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti to be his ambassador to India, according to a person familiar with the matter.

With the selections, Biden is turning to a seasoned diplomat and a longtime political ally to serve in two of the countrys highest-profile diplomatic postings.

It was not clear when either nomination would be announced, according to the person familiar with the matter, who was not authorized to publicly comment on the matter and spoke on condition of anonymity. The White House declined to comment on either Burns or Garcetti and noted that no one is final until theyre announced."

The Associated Press has previously reported that Biden has settled on former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel to serve as his ambassador to Japan and former Deputy Secretary of State Tom Nides to be ambassador to Israel. Neither of those selections has been publicly announced.

Prominent Democratic fundraisers Denise Bauer, Jane Hartley and David Cohen have also emerged as leading contenders for postings in France, Italy and Canada, respectively, according to people familiar with the White House deliberations but also not authorized to publicly comment on the matter. During the Obama administration, Bauer served as ambassador to Belgium, and Hartley was ambassador to France and Monaco. Cohen is a top executive at the cable company Comcast.

Burns and Garcetti, if confirmed by the Senate, would come to their postings at high-pressure moments in the U.S. relationships with China and India.

Biden on Wednesday asked U.S. intelligence officials to redouble their efforts to investigate the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, including any possibility the trail might lead to a Chinese lab.

The president has also pressed Chinas Xi Jinping on his government crackdown of democracy activists in Hong Kong, human rights abuses against Uighur and ethnic minorities in the western Xinjiang province, and what the U.S. sees as unfair and coercive trade practices.

Burns previously served as undersecretary of state under President George W. Bush and as U.S. envoy to Greece and NATO. Burns is now the executive director of the Aspen Strategy Group and Aspen Security Forum. Hes also a professor of the practice of diplomacy and international relations at the Harvard Kennedy School.

Garcetti, if confirmed, would be dispatched to India as it has been overwhelmed by a surge in coronavirus infections and deaths. Indias death toll is the third highest reported in the world after the U.S. and Brazil, and true numbers are thought to be significantly greater.

Alex Comisar, a spokesperson in Garcettis mayoral office, declined to comment.

Garcetti, 50, who considered a 2020 White House bid and later became part of Bidens inner circle, emerged as a widely discussed possibility to join Bidens Cabinet last year. But he took himself out of the running, saying the raging coronavirus crisis made it impossible for him to step away.

The two-term mayor would leave LA with an uneven record. He has been credited with continuing a transit buildup in a city choked with traffic, establishing tougher earthquake safety standards for thousands of buildings and steering the city though the deadly pandemic as it became a hot spot for infections. Cases have fallen steeply in the city and some restrictions have been rolled back, consistent with the trajectory in the state.

But Garcetti was overmatched by a crisis of homelessness that became a national embarrassment despite the massive jump in government spending to fight it. Many streets and sidewalks remain cratered and crumbling, despite his early pledge to make fixing them a cornerstone of his administration.

A lawsuit alleges that a former top staffer sexually harassed one of the mayors police bodyguards while Garcetti ignored it or laughed it off. The mayor denies the claims. One of his former deputy mayors was also indicted on corruption charges in an ongoing federal investigation at City Hall. And as is the case in many large cities, the crime rate in LA is spiking.

In picking Garcetti, the president would be rewarding a loyalist who was one of his national campaign co-chairs, who served on the committee that vetted his pool of vice presidential contenders and who served as one of several co-chairs for Bidens inaugural committee.

The India post would allow the politically ambitious Garcetti to burnish his foreign policy credentials ahead of a possible future White House run. Thats a conspicuous gap on his resume  the Ivy League graduate and Rhodes scholar has spent two decades in city government, either as mayor or a city councilman.

Garcettis popularity has slipped in recent years, and Black Lives Matter protesters had banged drums outside his official residence earlier this year to urge Biden not to choose Garcetti for a Cabinet position.

Axios first reported that Biden was ready to nominate Garcetti as ambassador to India and that Burns was the president's likely choice for ambassador to China.

___

Associated Press writers Aamer Madhani and Kathleen Ronayne contributed to this report.
HYDERABAD: Though the authorities claim that the Covid-19 cases are decreasing fast, thanks to the ongoing lockdown, the fact seems to be the other way round.

More than 100 coronavirus positive cases have been reported daily from 11 districts each in the state for the past one week which means the number of cases is not falling despite the lockdown. Bhadradri Kothagudem, Karimnagar, Mahbubnagar, Peddapalli, Nagarkurnool, Nalgonda, Siddipet, Suryapet, Vikarabad, Warangal Rural and Warangal Urban districts are witnessing more than 100 new cases every day.

Indian Medical Association (IMA) Telangana chapter which carried out a mask drive in districts said there was a lot of crowding in markets due to the harvest season. There are also traders, daily wage workers and migrant labourers who came back home due to the lockdown in the states where they were working. Heavy influx of people from Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Odisha has been witnessed in these districts.

Dr Lav Kumar Reddy, president of IMA TS chapter says, "There were wedding ceremonies in the first week of May. Despite restrictions, more than 200 people attended these functions. The government is strict now but those who were infected earlier are coming to hospitals now. The IMA had a meeting with sarpanches to sensitise them and it was found that there is one death every day in the districts with high caseload."

Bhadradri Kothagudem reported 120 cases on May 20 and 128 new cases were reported on Wednesday. Caseloads in Karimnagar, Mahbubnagar and Siddipet have been constantly above 100. Karimnagar reported 170 new cases on Wednesday and in this week total caseload is 1,113. This district is also a shopping hub for people during the wedding season apart from the agriculture activities. Mahbubnagar reported 158 new cases on Wednesday and the total caseload in the week is 891.

In Siddipet, it was noted that there was no proper social distancing maintained in huge agriculture markets. Experts say the concept of social distancing is not understood by farmers which shows that awareness about the disease at the ground level is limited or nil.

Siddipet recorded 131 new cases on Wednesday, showing the graph above 100 for a week. Total caseload for the week has been 766.

In Warangal Urban and Rural districts, during the first and second waves caseload has been high and experts attribute it to the agriculture and economic activities in both the districts. They also say that in districts, vaccination is very less which has led to the rise in positive cases.

Warangal Urban recorded 158 new cases on Wednesday and the total caseload for the week is 860. Warangal Rural recorded 102 new cases and there was a slight dip in the cases on May 23 with 61 new cases, yet the total caseload is 652.

Experts say that cases with mild symptoms have come down and with the strict implementation of lockdown, the numbers will reduce slowly. There were 3,762 new cases in the state and the total number of cases are 5,63,903. Total deaths are 3,189 of which 20 were reported on Wednesday.

Testing in the state has increased with 91,048 samples collected. Those in home and institutional isolation are 38,632. The number of people in home and institutional isolation shows that the virus is active and can spread around.

The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation has recorded 528 new cases and the districts around the city also continue to report high numbers with Ranga Reddy 229, Medchal- Malkajgiri 213 and Sangareddy 90 new cases.
AUSTIN, Texas (AP)  Theres no road trip, no soul searching. No beard or blogging. But Beto ORourke is making a political life decision again.

Three years after becoming Democrats breakout star out of Texas, and a year removed from crashing back to Earth in a short-lived presidential run, ORourke is again weighing another campaign  this time for governor.

But now ORourke, who teased an announcement of his bid for the White House on the cover of Vanity Fair, is being quiet about it. He says he hasnt ruled out anything, but isn't saying much else. And Texas Democrats are itching for an answer.

Impatience is not the word for it," Texas Democratic Party chairman Gilberto Hinojosa said. But anxious is.

For months, O'Rourke has kept his options open. A top aide to the former Texas congressman and presidential candidate said O'Rouke, 48, has not ruled out challenging Republican Gov. Greg Abbott in 2022 but has taken no formal steps toward a campaign, like calling donors or recruiting staff. The aide spoke on condition of anonymity in order to discuss private deliberations more freely.

If O'Rourke jumped in, it would be his third straight election cycle as a candidate, following his narrow loss for U.S. Senate in 2018 and failed White House run last year. A comeback in Texas could be complicated by liberal positions he took while seeking the presidency, but likely no other Democrat would enter the governor's race with the same ability to quickly raise the massive campaign funds needed to compete in the state.

There is no timeline on a decision, according to the aide, who said O'Rourke only recently has been able to think more about running now that he's finished teaching virtual classes at two Texas universities. For one he led a seminar on the struggle for voting rights  O'Rourke's most visible cause lately, as state lawmakers are set to approve a sweeping bill that would restrict polling hours and reduce options to cast a ballot.

Texas is the last big battleground in the GOP's nationwide campaign to impose new voting restrictions, driven by former President Donald Trump's false claims that the election was stolen from him. That fight is the latest way O'Rourke has remained an out-front presence, following the coronavirus pandemic and February's catastrophic freeze and blackouts across much of Texas that killed more than 150 people. He hasn't let up on Abbott, who is expected to seek a third term.

These jokers can't even keep the lights on, or the heat on, or the the water on when the temperature drops. Now they want to take away our election?" O'Rourke told protesters this month at the Texas Capitol.

The decision facing O'Rourke comes at a dark moment for Texas Democrats, even by the standards of a hapless 25 years of getting clobbered in statewide elections and steamrolled in the Legislature. For one, they are still wobbling after their massive expectations for a 2020 breakthrough flopped spectacularly. The party had hoped to flip the Texas House and O'Rourke led a massive campaign to do just that, but failed to give Democrats a single extra seat.

The Election Day wipeout emboldened Texas Republicans, who have responded by muscling through staunchly conservative measures over guns, abortion and teaching curriculum that Democrats are all but powerless to stop.

Any Texas Democrat running for governor faces long odds against the well-funded Abbott, who could ultimately face a stiffer challenge from actor Matthew McConaughey and his musings about joining the race himself. Still, O'Rourke went from virtual unknown to nearly upsetting Republican Sen. Ted Cruz in 2018, and relishes the role of underdog.

While weighing his presidential run in early 2019, ORourke briefly grew a beard. He hit the road and wrote long, quasi-philosophical blog posts. When he did finally announce, it coincided with the Vanity Fair cover, which proved more memorable than most of his time actually campaigning.

Hinojosa said he encouraged O'Rourke to consider running for governor after last year's letdown for Democrats. He said he's itching for an answer because the current hole at the top of the ticket is keeping others in the party sidelined for 2022 until they know whether there will be a strong gubernatorial candidate who could boost their own chances downballot.

I told him that I thought that we needed a strong candidate for governor and he certainly fit that mold, and that, in my opinion, if anybody could beat Abbott, he could beat him," Hinojosa said of his conversation with O'Rourke.

Republicans who already hold massive advantages statewide are looking to extend their territory along the Texas-Mexico border, historically a Democratic stronghold, which swung heavily toward Trump in November. In Webb County, which includes Laredo, Trump cut in half his vote deficit from 2016.

Sylvia Bruni, the county's Democratic Party chairwoman, said she hopes O'Rourke runs but knows his presidential bid could hurt his chances. O'Rourke remade his campaign after a mass shooting in his hometown of El Paso in August 2019 and during one debate even made a full-throated call on national TV for confiscating assault rifles, saying Hell, yes, were going to take your AR-15.

That kind of comment isn't forgotten easily in Laredo, which Bruni describes tongue-in-cheek as an area where your guns are more important than your wife. In April, O'Rourke drove 600 miles to Laredo to knock on doors and canvass for new voters. Bruni registered another 256 new voters Thursday at a high school, and worries the election bill heading to Abbott's desk will make casting their first ballot harder.

No one else has surfaced, she said of Democrats' non-O'Rourke prospects for governor. I haven't seen anyone out there.

___

Weissert reported from Washington.
LISBON, Portugal (AP)  European Union nations sketched out plans Thursday for new sanctions against Belarus, targeting economic sectors close to its authoritarian leader, as they sought to strike back at him for the diversion of a passenger jet to arrest a dissident journalist.

Meeting in Lisbon, EU foreign ministers vowed to continue ramping up pressure on Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko  whose disdain for democratic norms and human rights has made his country a pariah in the West.

The country's isolation has only deepened since Sunday, when Belarusian flight controllers told the crew of a Ryanair jet about a bomb threat and instructed it to land in Minsk, where journalist Raman Pratasevich was pulled off the plane.

A list of EU sanctions in place against senior members of the Belarus government, including Lukashenko, isnt having the dissuasive effect we need, said Portuguese Foreign Minister Augusto Santos Silva.

Amid the testy standoff, Belarus did get some help from its ally Russia, which refused to allow two Moscow-bound jetliners to change their flight paths in order to avoid Belarus' airspace.

As the EU works to hold Lukashenko to account, Pratasevich's parents appealed at a news conference in Poland for help from the international community to free their 26-year-old son.

I want you to hear my cry, the cry of my soul. So that you understand how difficult it is for us now and how much we are experiencing this situation, said his mother, Natalia Pratasevich. "I am begging you, help me free my son.

The EU ministers said they kept the family in mind as they did their work.

Im thinking of this young blogger, this young journalist, his mother and his father," Luxembourg Foreign Minister Jean Asselborn said in the Portuguese capital. "These are bandit tricks that are being carried out here. That cant be tolerated by the European Union.

The latest plans for sanctions, which could target the country's lucrative potash industry among others, comes after the dramatic diversion of the Ryanair flight. EU leaders have denounced the move as a state-sponsored hijacking, while Lukashenko defended his actions and accused the West of trying to strangle his country with sanctions.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the bloc would not ease up on Belarus. We need to move more swiftly on sanctions, he said after the informal Lisbon gathering, which drew up guidance for EU leaders but was not meant to take concrete action.

The EU has already advised its airlines to avoid the ex-Soviet nation's airspace and barred Belarusian carriers from EU airports and airspace.

But in a sign of support for Belarus, Russian authorities refused to allow two EU-based carriers to change their routes to Moscow so they could skirt Belarusian airspace. An Austrian Airlines flight from Vienna and an Air France flight from Paris both had to be canceled, the companies said. It was unclear what would happen to Friday's schedule.

The French pilots union SNPL said in a statement it was "more than surprised at the move.

While normally the responses to this type of request for modification are accepted immediately, its been radio silence for two days from the Russian authorities, it said.

The 27-nation bloc previously slammed Belarusian authorities with sanctions over the August election, which gave Lukashenko a sixth term and that opposition groups have rejected as rigged, along with his ensuing crackdown on protests.

If the next batch of sanctions does not ease the crackdown on the opposition and democratic values, German Foreign minister Heiko Maas said the EU will continue to look at what effects this has in Belarus, whether Lukashenko relents. If that isnt the case, we have to assume that this will be just the beginning of a big and long spiral of sanctions.

Foreign ministers from the G-7 group of leading industrialized nations  which includes some EU countries  also promised to take action. They said in a statement: We will enhance our efforts, including through further sanctions as appropriate, to promote accountability for the actions of the Belarusian authorities.

The EU has tried on and off to encourage democratic reforms in Belarus  bring it closer to the bloc and distance it from Russia  but has not had much success. Some say more sanctions will do little to alleviate the situation and will only push it closer to Russia, reducing the influence of the EU and others.

Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg acknowledged it is a difficult balance.

What we don't want to do is to drive the country in the arms of Russia, he said.

Asselborn said the bloc was focused on the country's large potash industry, a major supplier for fertilizer, "and I think it would hurt Lukashenko a great deal if we accomplished something there.

The giant Belaruskali plant, which is controlled by the state as are most economic assets in the country of 9.3 million, is the main cash earner for Lukashenko's government, along with petrochemicals.

Later in the day, the International Civil Aviation Organization was planning a closed-door meeting at its headquarters in Montreal to discuss Sunday's flight diversion. Western leaders have asked the organization to investigate.

Lukashenko on Wednesday defended the move, maintaining a bomb threat was made against the flight. He also insisted Belarusian authorities had a legitimate right to arrest Pratasevich, who has become one of his top foes, saying that the journalist was trying to foment a bloody rebellion." Pratasevich's Russian girlfriend, Sofia Sapega, who also was on the flight, was arrested as well.

Pratasevich, who left Belarus in 2019, ran a popular messaging app that had a key role in helping organize huge demonstrations against Lukashenko after the August election. But he has only increased his crackdown, and more than 35,000 people have been arrested since the protests began, with thousands reported beaten.

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Casert reported from Brussels. Associated Press writers Vladimir Isachenkov in Moscow, Geir Moulson and Dave Rising in Berlin, Rob Gillies in Toronto, Monika Scislowska and Vanessa Gera in Warsaw, Poland, and Angela Charlton in Paris contributed.
CAMBRIDGE, Mass. (AP)  When Samantha Maltais steps onto Harvards campus this fall, shell become the first member of the Aquinnah Wampanoag tribe to attend its prestigious law school. Its a full-circle moment for the university and the Marthas Vineyard tribe, she says.

More than 350 years ago, Caleb Cheeshahteaumuck, an Aquinnah Wampanoag man, became the first Native American to graduate from the Cambridge, Massachusetts, university  the product of its 1650 charter calling for the education of English and Indian youth of this country.

Coming from a tribal community in its backyard, Im hyper aware of Harvards impact, said Maltais, the 24-year-old daughter of her tribes chairwoman. Its a symbol of New Englands colonial past, this tool of assimilation that pushed Native Americans into the background in their own homelands.

Maltais will arrive on campus at a time when Native American tribes, students and faculty are pushing the Ivy League institution and other colleges to do more for Indigenous communities to atone for past wrongs, much in the way states, municipalities and universities are weighing and, in some cases, already providing reparations for slavery and discrimination against Black people.

In Minnesota, 11 tribes have called on the state university system to return some of the lands taken from tribes, provide tuition waivers to Native American students and increase the number of Native American faculty, among other demands.

Tadd Johnson, the University of Minnesotas director of tribal relations and a member of the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa, said the university will establish a truth and reconciliation process to document the historical wrongs and determine ways to make amends.

Were listening, he said. Were acting on virtually everything that has been thrown at us.

Meanwhile in Colorado, state lawmakers are weighing legislation to grant in-state tuition to students from certain federally recognized tribes.

And in California, Native American students want tuition waivers and other tangible restitution, after most state schools have issued statements acknowledging their fraught history with tribal land, according to Tori McConnell, a 21-year-old member of the Yurok Tribe who graduates from the University of California, Davis in June.

Its only right that they do these things, she said. Actions speak louder than words.

Ryan King, a university spokesperson, said officials are working diligently to continue supporting Native students and tribal communities. He cited the creation of an advisory council to the university president that includes tribal leaders and scholars, among other recent efforts.

Many American universities are a product of the Morrill Act, a law signed by President Abraham Lincoln in 1862 that funded the creation of public colleges through federal land sales. But an investigation by High Country News last year suggested nearly 11 million acres designated for so-called land grant colleges were actually taken from roughly 250 tribes.

At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology near Harvard, Native American students this past semester dug into the renowned schools Native American legacy, including how it continues to benefit from its status as one of the nations original land grant colleges.

Luke Bastian, a 22-year-old Navajo student from Phoenix, says he and other students presented their class projects to MITs president earlier this month as they urge the institution to create a Native American studies program.

University officials say conversations with Native students are ongoing and Bastian is optimistic theyll make progress. Students have already successfully lobbied for a designated campus space for Native students and convinced MIT to drop Columbus Day in favor of celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day, he said.

Some universities have taken laudable steps in recent years to prioritize the needs of Native students, say Indigenous community advocates.

Colorado State University offers the in-state tuition rate to students from any federally or state recognized tribe. And South Dakota State University uses private donations to provide scholarships to local tribal members and revenue from the colleges land grant trust to enhance Native American programming, research and other efforts.

We cant change the past, but we can change the future for these young people, says Barry Dunn, the universitys president and a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe who launched the Wokini Initiative in 2017.

The call for colleges to do more comes at a critical time, as the coronavirus pandemic has exacerbated higher education challenges for Native students, who already had the lowest college graduation rates in the country, said Cheryl Crazy Bull, president of the American Indian College Fund, which awarded Maltais a full scholarship to Harvard Law.

During the pandemic, Native students experienced the sharpest college enrollment decline of any racial or ethnic group, as economic hardships, health disparities and the challenges of remote learning in isolated tribal communities forced many students to quit school, said Crazy Bull.

At Harvard, theres concern that Native students are being asked to take temporary leave from campus due to poor grades at rates higher than those of the overall student population, according to Emily Van Dyke, president of Harvards Native American alumni group.

That suggests Native students are struggling to adjust and feel left out of broader campus conversations because of structural racism and other factors, said the 39-year-old Seattle resident, who is of Siksika descent. The number of Native students enrolled in the school of more than 6,700 undergraduates has dropped in recent years, from 45 in the 2009-2010 school year to 16 in 2019-2020, according to university data.

Students and alumni are also pushing Harvard to formally acknowledge that it stands on land once inhabited by Indigenous peoples, Van Dyke said. Its a basic, initial step many colleges have taken, including MIT and the University of California, Davis.

Were nowhere near where other colleges are at, Van Dyke said.

Harvard spokespeople declined to comment on the concerns, but Joseph Gone, an anthropology professor who heads the schools Native American program, said the university is in preliminary talks with local tribes to develop a land acknowledgement statement.

A member of the Gros Ventre Tribe in Montana, Gone also argues Harvard has made strides since his days as an undergraduate in the 1990s. Hes one of three tenured Native American professors and roughly 10 Native American courses are now offered each semester.

The schools famous Peabody Museum, meanwhile, is also working to repatriate scores of artifacts to Native American tribes, Gone said, though some Native American groups have recently criticized the process.

For her part, Maltais says Harvard and other schools should ensure Native students coming from remote tribal communities acclimate to college life by investing more in student groups, mentorship programs, counseling and other support services.

The Dartmouth graduate, who recently served in the Peace Corps in Tonga, also supports the idea of free or discounted tuition for Native students, but stresses that shouldnt be the only solution.

Not everyone needs a fancy degree, she said. Sometimes the only reparation for land is land.

___

This story has been corrected to show that Emily Van Dyke is not a member of the Siksika Nation in Canada. She is of Siksika descent but not an officially enrolled tribe member. It has also been clarified to show she believes Native American students are not just struggling to adjust to campus life, but also feel left out of broader campus conversations at Harvard because of structural racism and other factors.
A Houston-area couple is suing United Airlines, saying one of their infant twins died en route to meeting her grandparents in 2019 because the airline refused to let the family buckle the babies into car seats for the 11-hour flight to Japan. The same couple has been charged in a gruesome child abuse case in New Hampshire alleging the man intentionally immersed the hand of his 3-year-old stepdaughter in boiling water.

Shogo and Sara Hanamura, who live in Harris County, are seeking $40 million in damages. They say the airline is liable for the death of their child under an international convention because it failed to heed Federal Aviation Administration regulations, failed to train its employees and failed to uphold its own policy on car seat use.

Leslie Scott, a spokesperson for the company, noted that the couple previously sued United in state court in Illinois, where United has its headquarters. That lawsuit was voluntarily dismissed by the family more than a year ago, but they can refile it.

United expresses deep sorrow for the family, but believes this matter is without merit, Scott said.

On ExpressNews.com: 'They knew there were children' - mother of slain 6-year-old girl describes West Side shooting

Three months after their babys death on the flight, the Hanamuras were indicted in Manchester, N.H., on 36 criminal charges including multiple counts each of endangering a child, assault with a deadly weapon, reckless conduct and witness tampering. The allegations were that Shogo, the stepfather of a 3-year-old girl, intentionally immersed her hand in water and the girls mother, Sara, told two other siblings not to report it to anyone. Several of the charges have been dropped by the prosecution, and the case is pending.

Before that, on May 28, 2019, the couple left on what they expected would be a joyful journey to introduce their newborn twins to their grandparents overseas. They departed from Newark with the 3-month-old infants and made a plane change in San Francisco, according to a federal lawsuit filed this week.

Their pediatrician said the kids could travel once theyd reached 10 pounds  which they had by that time. United informed the Hanamuras they could use the car seats on the flight as long as there were empty seats.

While boarding the second flight in California, United staff told them they would have to check the FAA approved car seats even though the couple could see there were plenty of empty seats, according to the suit.

A flight attendant told them they could buckle in the twins using a lap belt if they needed to put them down at any point. The husband and wife took turns sleeping.

While the babies mother was asleep in an empty row behind them, their father was bottle feeding the boy and buckled the girl beside him using the seat belt. About 15 minutes after he buckled her in, the suit says, the girl stopped moving. The husband handed the baby to his wife, who determined she was not breathing. The mother quickly sought oxygen from the flight attendants at the back of the cabin, documents say.

The child died from lack of oxygen, the lawsuit says. Approved car seats protect babies head, neck and spine by seating them facing the seat back in a reclined position with a five point harness. American Academy of Pediatrics say positional asphyxia can occur secured during travel because young infants cannot hold their heads upright. If a babys head slumps forward, it constricts the airway and oxygen intake decreases.

The fathers child abuse case is set for trial Dec. 1. The mothers lawyer withdrew from the case last June and her trial is pending.

The New Hampshire Union Leader reported in 2019 that physicians alerted Manchester police when one of the girls parents took her to a Boston hospital for treatment. The girl was not verbal, but other relatives said they saw the assault and spoke with officials, the article said. The 3-year-old girl and several siblings no longer live with their stepfather and mother.

gabrielle.banks@chron.com
JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  Two vaccines made by Chinas Sinopharm appear safe and effective against COVID-19, according to a study published in a medical journal.

Scientists had been waiting for more details about the two vaccines, even though they already are being used in many countries, and one recently won the backing of the World Health Organization for emergency use.

The report, published online in the Journal of the American Medical Association, concluded the two vaccines are about 73% and 78% effective, as Sinopharm has previously claimed.

Researchers from Sinopharm and its local partners in the Middle East say the trial involved around 40,380 participants with the company's two vaccines -- one developed by the Wuhan Institute of Biological Products and the other by the Beijing Institute of Biological Products  and a placebo. The trial was carried out in four countries  Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Jordan. However, the study provided data for just Bahrain and the UAE.

Theres nothing very surprising. Its consistent with what they have claimed previously, but it does not completely eliminate the doubts about Sinopharm, said Jin Dong-yan, a medical professor at the University of Hong Kong who was not involved with the study.

He raised doubts about how protective the vaccine was based on a recent surge of cases in the island nation of Seychelles, which had vaccinated a large majority of its population with the Sinopharm vaccine.

The study, performed mostly in younger men, had little information about the vaccines effectiveness against severe disease. Some experts also expressed concern at the shortage of female participants, with nearly 85% being male.

"Its important to make sure you have tested it in enough women to be able to start seeing any possible safety concerns," said Ashley St. John, an associate professor at Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore.

A spokesperson for the company did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The vaccines, both of which are made with inactivated viruses, have already been given to millions of people across the world.

The World Health Organization cleared the Beijing Institute of Biological Products' shot for emergency use in early May, making it the first Chinese vaccine to receive the certification.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in April that China has provided vaccines to more than 100 countries, although it has not identified them. While China has six vaccines in use, the majority of its exports come from two companies: Sinopharm and Sinovac.

___

Wu reported from Taipei, Taiwan.

___

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.
LOLA GOMEZ, MBR / TNS

Gov. Greg Abbott called the smuggling of fentanyl across the Texas-Mexico border a crisis and said Thursday that he has deployed 1,000 Texas Department of Public Safety troopers and National Guard members to combat the problem.

In the first four months of this year, Abbott said at a press conference in Fort Worth, the DPS saw a significant increase in fentanyl seizures compared with 2020. After having no fentanyl seizures in 2017, 2018 and 2019, Abbott said, DPS seized 52 grams in 2020. So far this year, troopers have already seized 137 grams, he said.
A man was hit and killed by a car that did not stop Tuesday night on the Northeast Side.

The man was walking across the south lanes in the 9400 block of Perrin Beitel Road when a red sedan struck him about 9 p.m., according to a police report.
Contributed Photo / ST

A man was found dead with a gunshot wound Tuesday night at an East Side mobile home park.

San Antonio police were alerted about 11:20 p.m. to the shooting at Saints Arc Drive and Saints Haven.
Lawyers for conspiracy theorists Robert Ussery and Jodie Mann asked a judge on Wednesday to keep evidence they deem prejudicial out of their pending federal trial on gun-related charges.

Chief U.S. District Judge Orlando Garcia said he would later consider the request of Usserys lawyer to suppress any mention at his felon-with-a-gun trial about the Nov. 5, 2017 mass shooting at First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs.

Lawyers for Mann, meanwhile, also want the judge to suppress from her trial statements she made to Wilson County Sheriff's deputies after she and Ussery confronted the pastor of First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs in March 2018, and statements Mann made following a separate incident in Caldwell County in May 2018.

Ussery, who called himself Sidethorn, ran a website that outlined a number of conspiracy theories. Mann called herself Conspiracy Granny and used to be his girlfriend.

The pair in 2018 was accused of harassing families of the victims of Sutherland Springs, in which a gunman killed 26 First Baptist worshippers and injured several others during a rampage before killing himself during a chase.

The March 2018 confrontation with Pastor Frank Pomeroy, which Ussery and Mann recorded on a GoPro camera, led to deputies finding a gun during the incident in one of the pairs vehicles. During a raid in May 2018 at Usserys home in Lockhart, law officers found a cache of firearms and charged him with being a felon in possession of a gun. Mann is charged with illegally aiding and abetting Ussery to acquire the guns.

Federal prosecutors told the judge they have no intention of introducing evidence of the mass shooting, but that they need to broach the shooting in jury selection to ferret out potential jurors who might harbor beliefs like Ussery or have a connection to the tragedy.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly Stephenson argues that McHughs motion is too broad and would hamstring prosecutors from describing the narrative of its case and prevent the government from displaying audio and video files within any rational context so the jury wont be confused.

The government wants to explain to jurors what Ussery was doing at the Sutherland Springs church on March 5, 2018, the date the first gun was found. At the time, Ussery and Mann argued with Pomeroy, who lost his 14-year-old daughter in the massacre, and demanded proof that the mass shooting occurred.

Ussery and Mann proclaimed that the massacre was a hoax carried out by crisis actors, according to video of the incident posted on Vice News.

McHugh, a former federal prosecutor, argued that the trial should be limited to whether Ussery is a convicted felon and whether he illegally possessed a gun. McHugh said mentioning the mass shooting and Usserys beliefs would contaminate the jury.

McHugh said he is doing whats best for his client, even though Ussery told the judge Wednesday that he did not agree with McHughs motion.

McHugh told the judge that the massacre is not relevant and the government does not need to mention any snippet about it.

The beliefs of my client are not relevant, McHugh said of Ussery.

It is possible, just possible, that today the U. S, Attorneys Office has put their train on the wrong track - and going in the wrong direction. Beliefs and Sutherland Springs is not the charge, McHugh said in written arguments to the judge.

After the March 2018 incident, Mann made statements to Wilson County deputies that she was on a quest for the truth and repeated similar statements in May 2018 after federal authorities got involved.

Her lawyer, George Aristotelidis, argued that statements she made were illegally obtained from her because she wasnt read her Miranda rights or she wasnt mentally stable, but prosecutor Stephenson defended the investigation.

It appears it has some merit, Garcia said of Manns motion, noting it would have to be set for its own hearing that would likely push back the trial, which is tentatively scheduled for August.

Ussery offered to plead guilty on two conditions: that any sentence he gets not include federal supervision after his release, and that charges against Mann be dropped.

That aint going to happen, the judge said.

Both Ussery and Mann have had prior outbursts in court, have gone through a series of lawyers and spent months behind bars being evaluated or treated for their mental competence. They were both found competent for trial.

Since then, Mann has been free on bond, and the judge commended her for appearing more pleasurable and spending her time doing more useful things than going to Sutherland Springs spewing nonsense.

guillermo.contreras@express-news.net | Twitter: @gmaninfedland
It stood as a monument to Texas pride during HemisFair 68, the event that brought international attention to San Antonio. And for more than 50 years, the UTSA Institute of Texan Cultures has uniquely showcased the rich cultural history of Texas.

Now its time to write the institutes next chapters  to take this treasure into the next 50 years and beyond.

Earlier this year, the University of Texas at San Antonio reaffirmed its commitment to the ITCs future. In June, it will officially launch a program  ITC Centennial 2068: Community Stakeholder Visioning  to deepen and broaden the institutes engagement as a cultural heritage institution. This community-driven process is critical to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the institute and its museum.

To advance this important work, UTSA is launching three task forces that will begin meeting in August and will hold community-engagement events in the fall. A focus on how the ITC benefits our community will drive all three working groups.

UTSAs Museum of the Future task force will define how the ITC evolves into an exemplary institution with distinctive learning experiences to encourage a better understanding of our future as Texans. It will focus on strengthening the connection among ITC, UTSA and our communities, engaging K-12 students and serving Texas educators.

The Community Engagement and Sustaining Support group will examine ways to strengthen engagement with the community, supporting the ITCs impact as the champion of Texan culture. Participants will explore partnerships, fundraising strategies and ways to build an effective case for philanthropic and other external support.

The final task force, Museum Facility and Land Stewardship, will identify strategies to ensure the ITC remains a destination to experience Texas rich cultures. This group will identify the requirements befitting a world-class museum facility and make recommendations that leverage the institutes Hemisfair location to benefit the community and contribute to downtown San Antonios ongoing vitalization.

UTSA has engaged Lopez Negrete Communications to facilitate community input throughout the process. This Hispanic-owned, Texas-based firm is recognized by the Smithsonian as a Hispanic marketing cultural steward. Its work includes Houstons Census 2020 Engagement Initiative and a COVID-19 public health awareness campaign for the Houston Health Department.

As important, Lopez Negrete has a deep understanding of the ITCs importance in San Antonios history, its cultural impact in our community, and its potential to advance important conversations about culture and heritage.

As a facilitator, Lopez Negrete will oversee community discussions and engagement among UTSA, the ITC Centennial 2068 steering committee and its task forces, individual community stakeholders, and groups including the Urban Land Institute, local community organizations and placemaking consultants.

Lopez Negrete is partnering with TouchPoint Strategies, a Houston-based urban planning and economic development firm, to lead community engagement. TouchPoint President Damon Williams will direct these efforts. San Antonio-based Opt In Experts, a public affairs consulting firm led by Mari Aguirre-Rodriguez, will manage public outreach activities.

This visioning process will gather and transform solutions into a strategic, long-term plan for the institute. All of these community engagement events will be open to the public, and all viable options will be considered.

The ITC is the only resource devoted entirely to Texas diverse cultural history. Its where visitors engage with the states many cultures. Its where they learn about the historical contributions of Mexican Americans to our state, including that so many families here in San Antonio.

This visioning process is a significant milestone for UTSA  and San Antonio. Together, we share a desire to develop the blueprint that ensures the ITCs vibrancy for the next 50 years.

Nationally recognized research universities have premier museums that tell meaningful stories. UTSA needs a premier museum  a gem we all can point to.

We have an opportunity to ensure the ITC does this for our future so children and adults can celebrate the cultures that make Texas the vibrant state it is today. A well-designed road map that guides the ITC to its 2068 centennial is critical in achieving our shared goal.

Kimberly Andrews Espy is UTSAs provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. Veronica Garcia Rodriguez is interim head curator of the Institute of Texan Cultures.
Similar scenes were witnessed earlier this month in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, where bodies were found floating in the river Ganga.  ANI

Pithoragarh: Dozens of bodies belived to be of COVID-19 victims have washed up on the banks of Sarayu river in Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh on Wednesday evoking shock, anger and concern among the locals.

Locals fear that water will be contaminated which will further lead to rapid spread of the COVID-19 disease as just 30 kilometers from where the corpses were seen floating, is the district headquarters, which gets its supply of drinking water from the river.

Many are concerned about the spread of COVID-19 as cases were at an all-time high earlier this month.

Locals also raised objections over cremating the bodies of Covid victims in the open areas as they are fearful of further spread of the infection.

Pankaj Chandola, tehsildar of the district who is supervising the cremation of the COVID patients in the Ghat area, said that the bodies flowing into the Saryu river are not from Pithoragarh .

"The area in which the corpses were floating is not from Pithoragarh . They have not yet been identified and investigation is being carried out from where the bodies came from," Chandola said.

Similar scenes were witnessed earlier this month in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, where bodies were found floating in the river Ganga.

Meanwhile, the Centre has asked Uttar Pradesh and Bihar to prevent the dumping of dead bodies in the Ganga and its tributaries, calling media reports of bodies of COVID-19 victims being dumped in the rivers "undesirable and alarming".
The world has shrunk, and a battlefield in one region becomes a battlefield in another.

We are seeing this dynamic play out in America, the hostility apparently inspired by the recent Israeli airstrikes in Gaza.

With the war approaching its second week, the death toll kept climbing  more than 220 Palestinians, 60 of them children, and 12 Israelis, including two children, according to news reports.

The conflict ended after President Joe Biden, in a telephone call to the leaders of both sides, urged a de-escalation leading to a cease-fire.

The truce, albeit fragile, has held, but the initial conflict has led to ugly attacks against Jews in the United States  people who had no more connection to the airstrikes in Gaza than their victimizers did.

Antisemitic incidents have been reported throughout the country, surging in this moment, but also reflecting a broader trend in recent years. Consider:

In Bal Harbour, Fla., police investigated an incident in which four men in an SUV allegedly hurled slurs at a Jewish family.

Two people shattered a window at a synagogue in Skokie, Ill., local police reported. The police are investigating the incident as a hate crime. Officers found a broken stick and a Freedom for Palestine sign on the ground under the window.

In Los Angeles, a group of people harassed and threatened Jewish diners at a restaurant.

With Jewish and Palestinian supporters rallying in New York City, a Jewish man was assaulted in the area, police reported.

The anti-Semitism were seeing across our country isnt in isolation and isnt just a few incidents, Mayor Bill de Blasio tweeted after meeting with Jewish community leaders.

Sadly, antisemitic attacks are neither isolated nor new, increasing since the election of President Donald Trump in 2016.

The attacks have hit multiyear highs, with 63 percent of Jews saying they have witnessed or experienced antisemitism over the past five years, according to a recent survey by the Anti-Defamation League.

More than 50 percent of Jews, the same survey found, said they felt less safe in the U.S. today than they did a decade ago.

What (this report) does is give a very broad photograph of what the American Jewish experience is like today, Jessica Reaves of the ADL told reporters.

American Jews are being blamed for the violence in Gaza, even though many have condemned the attacks. The perpetrators are responding to what they consider vile actions with more vile actions  a response that is both ugly and irrational.

Conflating the two groups  Israeli leaders and American Jews  is stupid, perverted and misplaced. Antisemitism is hatred, and hatred must always be condemned.

I condemn this hateful behavior, President Joe Biden tweeted. Its up to all of us to give hate no safe harbor.

The president is right. Hate is a powerful enemy, especially when buttressed by the senseless motives we see in these attacks, but the many must guard against the few, the rational against the irrational. Our only solace is that the irrational, in this instance, are outnumbered.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxtons felony trial on securities fraud charges should be held in Collin County where Paxton lives, not in Harris County, a Houston appeals court ruled early Thursday morning.

The ruling comes after seven months of deliberation, the latest in a series of delays that have put off the resolution of Paxtons 2015 felony securities fraud indictment for almost six years, essentially his entire time in office. He was meanwhile narrowly re-elected to second term in 2018.

The case had initially been moved from Collin County to Harris in 2017, after a judge ruled that Paxton would not get a fair trial in Collin County because of his extensive political ties there.

The appellate court, in a 2-1 decision, sided Thursday with Paxtons attorneys who had argued that the move was invalid because that judges appointment to handle the case had expired by the time he made the ruling.

We now have the Court of Appeals and two separate judges saying that the case should be returned to Collin Co. Judge Gallaghers appointment clearly expired in January of 2017, said Philip Hilder, one of Paxtons defense attorneys. It is time that the prosecutors allow Mr. Paxton to have his day in court.

Political science and legal experts have said that a trial in Collin County would be a major advantage for Paxton, a long-time McKinney resident who has broad support there after having represented the area in the state Legislature for more than a decade prior to being elected the states top law enforcement officer in 2014.

Prosecutors said they plan to ask the appellate court for a rehearing by the entire court.

We believe the disagreement between the panel members as to where this prosecution should take place warrants re-consideration of this important issue by all nine justices of the First Court of Appeals, special prosecutor Brian Wice said in a statement.

In its opinion Thursday, all-Democratic three-judge panel of the First Court of Appeals affirmed the move back to Collin. Justice Gordon Goodman dissented, though he encouraged the trial court regardless to move swifly on the long-delayed case.

Whichever district court ultimately receives these cases should move them to trial as expeditiously as possible, Goodman wrote. Further delay is anything but expedient.

RELATED: Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton says he won't resign despite bribery accusations

Paxton is accused of encouraging investors to provide financial backing to a technology startup without disclosing that he was being paid by the firm. The allegations date back to 2011 and 2012 when he served as a member of the Texas House.

He is also accused of soliciting clients for his friends investment company without registering with the state. Paxton has pleaded not guilty to all allegations, and a federal court dismissed a similar suit in 2016.

A Houston judge last June had ordered the case back to Collin County, where the case originated and where the alleged fraud occurred. A new judge later appointed to the case upheld the decision. Prosecutors appealed, staying the case for the past half-a-year.

Attorneys on both sides had disagreed over whether the judge who moved the case from Collin to Harris in the first place had jurisdiction. Prosecutors had argued the decision should stand for a number of reasons, including that Paxton took five months to raise the objection after the trial was moved.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Indicted AG Ken Paxton seeks to move his criminal case to his home turf

If it gets moved back to Collin County, that certainly is advantageous for Paxton for two reasons: One, its more likely to go to a Republican judge as opposed to a Democratic judge in Harris County, said Mark Jones, a political science professor at Rice University who has studied the case, in an interview in 2019. And any jury pool is going to be much more sympathetic to Paxton in Collin versus Harris.

The ruling comes at a tumultuous time for Paxton, who not only has the criminal indictment hanging over his head but also an FBI investigation into allegations late last year by eight of his former top aides that he took bribes and abused his office to help a friend and campaign donor. Paxton has denied any wrongdoing.

While the venue may serve Paxton well, the timing could pose a problem for him in another arena: his re-election campaign. He is likely to soon be faced with his most difficult primary yet, as Land Commissioner George P. Bush criticizes him over his legal troubles and is expected to announce a challenge on June 2.

ALSO READ: Trump says he'll endorse in 2022 Texas attorney general Republican primary

There have been some serious allegations levied against the current attorney general, Bush said in an interview with Dallas radio host Mark Davis last month. Personally I think that the top law enforcement official in Texas needs to be above reproach  I think character matters and integrity matters.

Paxtons legal troubles were also fodder for his foe in his last reelection. Democrat Justin Nelson lost by less than 4 percentage points in 2018.

There are still several issues that a trial court judge must resolve before getting to the substance of the case, however, including a dispute over special prosecutors pay that has already contributed to months of hold-up in past years.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Editor's note: This story originally published in a 2017 series honoring the 300th anniversary of San Antonio.



A man named Bill Bannister registered at the Town House motel on Loop 410 on Memorial Day 1979.

The next morning, May 29, using a high-powered rifle fitted with a scope, that man fired a shot that would be heard around the world. It killed U.S. District Judge John H. Wood Jr.  the first federal judge to be assassinated in the country.

Years later, the trial of Charles V. Harrelson revealed that Bill Bannister was a pseudonym Harrelson used to help track the judge, who was shot in the back outside his Alamo Heights townhome  less than 2 miles from the motel  as he was leaving for work.

Then-FBI Director William Webster dispatched dozens of agents to San Antonio for a massive investigation that resulted in Harrelson and four others being charged in connection with Woods assassination  a killing still etched in the citys lore.

It was the crime of the century, in San Antonio for sure, said local defense lawyer Alan Brown, who represented people who were rounded up during the investigation but never charged in the murder. It was the first time someone assassinated a sitting federal judge. It was such an iconoclastic case, because it was believed a federal judge could not be touched.

It was a big deal to a lot of people, concurred lawyer Charles Campion, who defended Harrelsons wife, Jo Ann Harrelson, the woman who bought the murder weapon.

On Express-News.com: Judge Sarah Garrahan-Moulder, who helped prosecute hit man Charles Harrelson in San Antonio, dies at 84

The sensational case resulted in a book, Dirty Dealings, by the late journalist Gary Cartwright, television crime dramas and a mention at Las Vegas Mob Museum.

In real life, it highlighted the criminal acts of those accused in Woods killing  a drug lord, an actors father and some of their relatives. But it also spotlighted allegations that federal investigators and prosecutors treaded on constitutional rights such as attorney-client and marital privilege and the secret recording of private conversations.

It also resulted in a group of lawyers and businessmen bankrolling a $100,000 reward, which became instrumental in solving the case. The reward was eventually paid out to a handful of people who included a horrible creton bankrobber who shared a jail cell with Charles Harrelson, a woman who delivered the $250,000 payout for the hit to Harrelson, and a kid who found a piece of the murder rifle in a creek bed, said Sam Millsap, who chaired the reward committee.

It was a big deal; there was a lot of interest in the case, said Millsap, who later served as Bexar County district attorney. Someone could have done a movie not only on the case, but on the people who got the reward.

Bill Thompson, HP staff / Houston Chronicle

The case

According to newspaper stories citing trial testimony, a drug trafficker and flamboyant gambler originally from El Paso, Jamiel Jimmy Chagra, paid Harrelson $250,000 to kill Wood because Chagra feared a trial and sentencing by Maximum John. Wood earned the moniker for his reputation of giving tough sentences to drug traffickers.

Chagra was a prolific marijuana smuggler and spent his ill-gotten fortune on casinos in Las Vegas, where he moved in 1978. Harrelson, a card gambling felon and accused hit man with ties to organized crime, was the father of actor Woody Harrelson and met Jimmy Chagra in Vegas in 1979 after being paroled in an unrelated murder case.

Charles Harrelson was a master at creating alibis, screens and layers between him and his crimes, according to retired federal prosecutor Ray Jahn, who with his wife, LeRoy Jahn, prosecuted Harrelson and his co-defendants.

He was very good at what he did, Ray Jahn said.

According to the Jahns, Harrelson offered to kill people suspected of killing Jimmys older brother, attorney Lee Chagra, who was murdered in his El Paso law office two days before Christmas in 1978.

Thats not the problem I have, Ray Jahn quoted Jimmy Chagra as telling Harrelson.

Chagra asked Harrelson if Wood could be bribed. Harrelson reported back that Wood could not be corrupted but had to be killed.

It was the day after (Memorial) Day, the day Chagras trial was to start, Ray Jahn said. Harrelson thought that was the day he had to kill the judge.

But unknown to Harrelson, the trial had been postponed, Ray Jahn said.

Jimmy was upset about that because he thought it put him under suspicion right away, Ray Jahn said.

Full-court press

But Chagra and Harrelson werent immediate suspects, and it took thousands of man-hours before they were identified as such. By the time the first indictments came down in April 1982, the FBI had conducted more than 30,000 interviews and collected more than 500,000 pieces of information. The investigation cost more than $11 million, at the time the most extensive investigation in the bureaus history.

The pressure (to solve the murder) was on us, Ray Jahn said. There was a lot of internal pressure.

Tips poured in. Bikers and other street toughs were dragged in on hold-over charges.

A lot of the early investigation went off on some tangents, and they rounded up some Bandidos, lawyer Campion said. They shook down everybody in South Texas.

The FBI hauled in just about anyone if agents believed that they had information, and the agency threw the book at them to make them talk.

They werent taking no for an answer, defense lawyer Brown said. They did a full-court press. They pulled out all the stops. Consequently, they got a bunch of bad stories, a bunch of bad information.

Eventually, the evidence pointed to Harrelson, in particular a taped conversation Chagra had with another brother who was a lawyer, Joe Chagra, in Leavenworth federal prison about the assassination. The government indicted Harrelson, the Chagra brothers, Jo Ann Harrelson and Jimmy Chagras wife, Elizabeth, who delivered the $250,000 payoff for Charles Harrelson.

By the time the trial came around in 1983, Jimmy Chagras case had been severed from his co-defendants and Joe Chagra had taken a plea deal in which he pleaded guilty to the conspiracy to murder Wood. He also agreed to testify against all co-defendants except his brother.

The trial for the Harrelsons and Elizabeth Chagra took place in the newly named John H. Wood Jr. courthouse  over objections from defense lawyers. Adding further to their indignation, the trial was presided over by then-federal Judge William Sessions, who was a pallbearer at Woods funeral and delivered a eulogy, Campion said.

The defense sought a change of venue, but the requests were denied. They also argued, unsuccessfully, that incriminating recorded conversations should not have been allowed because they were covered by attorney-client privilege or by spousal privilege.

The case was unique in that the courts all the way up the line blessed the decisions below, Campion said of appeals that followed.

At trial, the Jahns put on a parade of star witnesses that included Harrelsons cellmate and Joe Chagra, both of whom had been told by Harrelson that he carried out the hit.

Joe Chagra testified that the first mention of having Wood murdered came in the judges courtroom in April 1979, after Jimmy Chagra lost a motion to remove Wood from his drug case.

Jimmy told me he was never going to get a fair trial and asked if I thought he should try having Judge Wood killed, Joe Chagra testified, according to newspaper stories at the time. I told him he should.

Jimmy Chagra broached the matter again in early May 1979 as the brothers walked on the lawn of Jimmys Las Vegas home, Joe Chagra testified.

Joe Chagra also testified that Jimmy Chagra later told him he had hired Harrelson to kill the judge and that Harrelson himself told Joe Chagra that he had carried out the hit, according to the newspaper stories.

The trial for Jimmy Chagra, meanwhile, was moved to Jacksonville, Florida, and his lawyer, former Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman, dealt the government a defeat. Without Joe Chagras testimony, Jimmy Chagra was acquitted of murder and conspiracy to murder but convicted of lesser obstruction of justice and drug charges.

It was just incredible, said Millsap, the former district attorney. You cant imagine the shock when Jimmy Chagra was acquitted.

In an unsuccessful effort to try to free his wife early from her 30-year sentence, Chagra later admitted to his role in the conspiracy to murder Wood and agreed to testify against people who had tried to kill James Kerr, a federal prosecutor who had initially obtained drug-trafficking indictments against Jimmy Chagra and battled repeatedly in court with Lee Chagra.

He gave us details that only he knew, Ray Jahn said.

Jimmy Chagra was sentenced to 30 years for his original drug-trafficking charges, plus 10 years for the lesser charges he was convicted of when he was tried for the Wood murder. Harrelson was sentenced to two consecutive life terms plus five years, while Jo Ann Harrelson got a combined 25 years for obstruction of justice.

Joe Chagra ended up serving 6 years of his 10-year sentence, and he died in a car crash in El Paso in 1996 after his release.

Elizabeth Chagra died in prison of ovarian cancer in September 1997 at age 43. Harrelson, 69, died of a heart attack in March 2007 in a federal maximum-security prison in Colorado.

Jimmy Chagra was released from federal prison in 2003 and entered the witness-protection program. After marrying his third wife, he died of cancer in July 2008 while living in Mesa, Arizona, under the name James Madrid, several news outlets reported. He was 63.

Reflections

In a recent interview with the San Antonio Express-News, Joe Chagras widow, now known as Patty Chagra Russell, defended her husband, saying the prison recording showed that Jimmy Chagra was a bully toward her husband.

Not wanting to put his family through a trial, Joe pleaded guilty to something he didnt do, Chagra Russell said.

He wasnt a criminal; he was a nice person, she added. He believed in the law. He believed in the justice system, but it didnt do right by him.

Do I feel like he got robbed? Yes, Chagra Russell continued. But Im sure the Wood family feels like they were robbed, too. This is not a happy story for anybody. Everybody got hurt in this. It was a tragedy.

She couldnt speak to Jimmy Chagras crimes or conduct, saying, we werent close.

In a series of videotaped interviews after his release from prison, Chagra told Las Vegas author Jack Sheehan that his prosecution was the result of a beef Wood had against his older brother Lee.

Judge Wood hated my brother Lee so much that he wanted a Chagra any way he could get him, Chagra said, according to a clip of the interviews posted on the internet.

But in the interviews, Chagra described himself as a megalomaniac.

I mean I had so much money, so much power, Chagra said. As a matter of fact, when I got arrested, I thought I could buy Judge Wood off, and I tried through a family member by offering $5 million or $10 million. But the judge could not be corrupted.

Chagra told Sheehan that he offered to plead guilty  to having Judge Wood murdered, if theyd release my wife. They said no. They tortured her for no (reason). She died of ovarian cancer in prison because she wouldnt testify against me.

But when reminded that he nonetheless confessed to bankrolling the judges killing, Chagra replied: Well, I said I did it to get paroled, so Ill stick to that story right now.

He added: Personally, I dont know if Charlie Harrelson killed Judge Wood or not.

GContreras@express-news.net

Twitter: @gmaninfedland


Croatia Airlines has selected the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) to support its post-Covid-19 strategy, which will include competing against low cost giant Ryanair on its home turf in Zagreb. BCG will develop plans for how the carrier can tap into rapidly unfolding summer opportunities, albeit in an agile manner in light of the continued uncertainty. The strategy also focuses on preparing Croatia Airlines for the new normal. BCG will help us redefine new market opportunities for connecting European destinations with the region of Southeast Europe, maximise future revenue potential and increase aircraft productivity. It will help us define opportunities for further rationalisation and improvement of business processes, Croatia Airlines said. Croatia Airlines has selected the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) to support its post-Covid-19 strategy, which will include competing against low cost giant Ryanair on its home turf in Zagreb. BCG will develop plans for how the carrier can tap into rapidly unfolding summer opportunities, albeit in an agile manner in light of the continued uncertainty. The strategy also focuses on preparing Croatia Airlines for the new normal. BCG will help us redefine new market opportunities for connecting European destinations with the region of Southeast Europe, maximise future revenue potential and increase aircraft productivity. It will help us define opportunities for further rationalisation and improvement of business processes, Croatia Airlines said.





Boston Consulting Group is an American management consulting firm and the worlds second largest by revenue. We serve seven of the ten largest network carriers and six of the top twenty low cost carriers, in addition to airports, original equipment manufacturers, cargo carriers, and other key players in the aviation ecosystem. Our airline consulting teams combine expertise in all aspects of the airline industry, including strategy, network planning, airline operations, pricing and revenue management, sales and distribution, personalisation and airline loyalty, MRO, people and organisation, digital and travel technologies, and sustainability. By working in cross-functional teams, we view each airline holistically to ensure that every move delivers cascading benefits for the business overall, BCG said.





The company noted its work has achieved groundbreaking impact. One airline clients transformation has been described as the largest corporate turnaround in the countrys history. Another client became the most punctual airline in the world. And another achieved a three-point improvement in on-time departures, the consultancy firm said. Croatia Airlines is facing increased competition, with Ryanair to commence operations to Zagreb next week and base its first of two aircraft in the city by the end of August. Furthermore, the carrier is awaiting a ruling by the European Unions General Court on a Ryanair complaint over state aid provided to the airline by the Croatian government in order to cover losses generated by the Covid-19 pandemic last year. The court has ruled in Ryanairs favour last week in similar cases brought against the European Commission for aid granted to KLM and TAP on the grounds that regulators failed to justify the cash injections.








NEWS FLASH









Qatar Airways will not be returning to either Sarajevo or Skopje according to its preliminary 2021/2022 winter season timetable, which it has begun revising this week. Services to both capital cities have been suspended since March of last year as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. The carrier has not scheduled services for the 2022 summer season either, although it has indicated the two will be restored once demand returns. In a statement, the Qatari carrier said, Similar to other airlines around the world, the Covid-19 pandemic has created significant operational challenges for Qatar Airways. While we continue to operate as many flights as possible, many routes remain commercially unviable due to the significant drop in global demand for air travel. After careful consideration, we have taken the decision to temporarily suspend the Sarajevo and Skopje routes. We have advised all stakeholders and impacted passengers and are working closely with them to offer alternative travel options to other points in our network or full refunds in line with our Travel With Confidence flexible travel policy.




Most people are other people. Their thoughts are someone else's opinions, their lives a mimicry, their passions a quotation. Oscar Wilde

Who among us hasnt daydreamed about starting over somewhere else with a new identity? While it might be impractical to actually bust out a fake mustache and pretend to be a MI6 spy, or claim to be a completely different person while chatting someone up at a bar, the concept of sliding into a new persona can have its appeal. Our latest read takes us to Scotland where our protagonist has accidentally reinvented herself as her best friend.

The Summer Job by Lizzy Dent

Lizzy Dents debut adult novel, The Summer Job is the perfect read for anyone who has ever felt lost within their personal or professional life. Blending the foodie charm of Stephanie Danlers Sweetbitter and Emily Henrys Beach Read laughs, Dent has created a hilarious tale of a summer job gone awry.

When Birdy arrives at her new summer job in Scotland she is woefully unprepared for her task, where she is pretending to be her best friend, a top sommelier at a hotel that is working to rebrand itself as a luxury destination. The problem for Birdy is everyone thinks shes her best friend, Heather, who is actually on vacation with a scuzzy boyfriend in Italy. (Oh, and Birdy doesnt know the first thing about wine.)

And, of course, Heather doesnt know that Birdy has taken the job in her place. Juggling a fake identity, an absent chef, her newfound wine studies and a potential romance forces Birdy to take stock of her life and consider what she wants for her future.

After a lifetime of halfhearted pursuits, Birdy is finally finding herself as she studies the wine and bonds with her new coworkers, but how long can she keep up the ruse?

Readers are sure to enjoy the ups and downs of Birdys faux sommelier facade as her humor quickly endears her to the other characters despite her many wine snafus.

Whether youre sipping a red, white or perhaps a sangria, The Summer Job makes for an entrancing beachy read that you wont be able to put down until the final page.

From the book jacket

What if you could be someone else? Just for the summer

Birdy has made a mistake. Everyone imagines running away from their life at some point. But Birdy has actually done it. And the life shes run into is her best friend Heathers. The only problem is, she hasnt told Heather.

The summer job at the highland Scottish hotel that her world class wine-expert friend ditched turns out to be a lot more than Birdy bargained for. Can she survive a summer pretending to be her best friend? And can Birdy stop herself from falling for the first man shes ever actually liked, but who thinks shes someone else?

One good friends very bad decision is at the heart of this laugh-out-loud love story and unexpected tale of a woman finally finding herself in the strangest of places.

If you enjoy

Readers looking for additional laughs and a light romance to read while basking in the sun, might also enjoy The People We Meet on Vacation. Emily Henrys latest novel tells the story of two best friends in a When Harry Met Sally kind of friendship who get together every year during a summer vacation.

tinamarie.craven@hearstmediact.com
NEW ORLEANS (AP)  Louisiana State Police troopers involved in the violent arrest of a Black motorist who died in police custody in 2019 should be immediately fired and charged with crimes, leaders of the National Urban League and other civil rights groups said Thursday.

Marc Morial, the national president of the Urban League and a former mayor of New Orleans, was joined by representatives of the American Civil Liberties Union, the NAACP and other state and local groups in calling for action during an online news conference. Later in the day, protesters rallied at the state Capitol and marched to the governor's mansion to seek justice for Ronald Greene.

Their demands came just a week after The Associated Press obtained and published body camera video that appears to contradict at least one trooper's statement that Greene continued to be a threat even after he was restrained, and that his behavior was the reason troopers used force.

After seeing that video, no reasonable person could come to any other conclusion ... than a crime has been committed by Louisiana state troopers, said Morial, who during the news conference played a separate AP video report that included an interview with an expert on police use of force.

Civil rights attorney Ron Haley added, Make no mistake: Ron Greene was murdered at the hands of Louisiana State Police.

Greenes death is already under investigation by state and federal authorities. It also is the subject of a lawsuit. Morial said state police should fire and arrest the troopers involved.

Asked for a response, state police Capt. Nick Manale said in an email that the troopers involved have already received internal discipline while awaiting the results of the federal review. He said the state police force continues to cooperate in the investigation and is confident in the judicial system and fair review of this incident.

Greenes mother, Mona Hardin, appeared at the news conference with family attorney Lee Merritt. Merritt said they had met with a state legislator and have appealed to the governors office and district attorney to ask a judge to issue an arrest warrant for the troopers. Merritt said they were told to trust the process and await the results of the federal inquiry.

No one has delivered any specific action, Merritt said. We believe in equal protection under the law. And we know if a white citizen, a fellow police officer, the governors child, had met the same end that Ronald Greene met, there would be action by now.

Union Parish District Attorney John Belton did not immediately respond to a telephone message and an emailed request for comment.

Hardin thanked Morial and others attending the news conference.

We need help, she said. We need someones attention ... to move these mountains.

On Thursday afternoon, more than 100 people including activists and members of Greenes family, gathered on the steps of the state Capitol in Baton Rouge to request justice for Greene. Speakers reiterated their demands for the troopers arrest and some blasted Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards for allowing the body camera video to be held from the public for two years.

The governor is making a deliberate decision not to tell the head of state police to make an arrest, asserted Gary Chambers, an activist and unsuccessful candidate for Congress last year.

After more than an hour of speeches in withering heat, protesters moved to the governors mansion, where angry speakers took turns addressing the crowd. At one point, about a dozen people, nearly all men, armed with long guns and wearing New Black Panther Party patches on their shirts, showed up and stood at the edge of the street, their backs to the gate in front of the mansions driveway.

Police at first kept their distance, parked at intersections roughly 100 yards (91 meters) away in either direction. As the marchers moved away from the mansion, a state police car escorted them. One group of marchers briefly blocked a nearby interstate on-ramp before continuing into the city. While the rhetoric was sometimes heated, the protests remained peaceful.

The video obtained by the AP and later released by state police shows troopers stunning, beating and choking Greene, 49, following an automobile chase and crash in northeast Louisiana in May 2019.

Greenes family was initially told that he died in the car crash. State police later issued a brief statement acknowledging there was a struggle with officers and that Greene died on the way to the hospital.

The video shows troopers converging on Greenes car outside Monroe, Louisiana, after a high-speed chase that followed an unspecified traffic violation. Troopers can be seen repeatedly jolting the 49-year-old unarmed man with stun devices, putting him in a chokehold, punching him in the head and dragging him by his ankle shackles.

He also was placed facedown on the ground for more than nine minutes while restrained  a tactic use-of-force experts criticized as dangerous and likely to have restricted his breathing.

An autopsy cited the restraint and an inflicted head injury as factors in Greene's death, along with cocaine-induced delirium and other injuries that might have been the result of the car crash.

News conference participants said Greenes treatment points to the need for passage of a national police reform bill known as the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, which would ban chokeholds, include prohibitions on no-knock police raids like the one in Louisville, Kentucky, that killed Breonna Taylor, and create a national registry for officers who are disciplined for serious misconduct, among other proposals. It has been passed by the House but is stalled in a closely divided Senate.

They also called for passage of police reforms at the state level, including an end to qualified immunity  protection from lawsuits for police officers and others for actions they take in the course of their work  and a review of Louisianas police officers bill of rights, which provides legal protections for officers accused of wrongdoing.
Hartford Police / Contributed

HARTFORD  A 41-year-old city man was killed in an apparent assault inside an apartment on Sigourney Street late Wednesday afternoon, according to police.

Lt. Aaron Boisvert said around 6 p.m., patrol officers responded to St. Francis Hospital for a report of an assault victim who showed up for treatment.
CONCORD, N.H. (AP)  A bill aimed at curtailing the governors authority during future pandemics or other emergencies has cleared the state Senate.

Under current law, the governor can declare a state of emergency and renew it every 21 days as long as he or she finds it necessary to protect public safety and welfare, though the Legislature can vote to terminate it.

The bill passed Thursday would change the renewal date to 30 days and would allow the Legislature to terminate not just a state of emergency but any emergency order issued by the governor. It also would require the governor to seek legislative approval to spend any federal or private money exceeding $100,000 related to the emergency unless there is an immediate risk to the public.

This bill is an important effort to ensure balance between oversight during states of emergency and public safety during times of crisis, said Sen. Sharon Carson, R-Londonderry.

The Senate also passed legislation establishing medial freedom in immunizations. It specifies that no one may be forced to receive a COVID-19 vaccine to access any public facility, benefit or service.

Hospitals and nursing homes, however, would be allowed to require the vaccine for employees, and jails and prisons could require them for inmates. And nothing in the bill would prevent schools from requiring the vaccine if the state health commissioner adopts rules expanding the existing list of mandatory vaccines.

Sen. Tom Sherman, D-Rye, said the bill sends the wrong message during a pandemic and opens the door to undoing years of bipartisan progress on public health policy.

The only intervention that has stopped this disease in its tracks is vaccination, he said.

A third bill passed Thursday would allow churches and other religious organizations to remain open during a state of emergency under the same restrictions imposed on businesses and service providers deemed essential.

Democrats argued the bill elevates decisions by religious organizations above the publics health and safety interests, but Republicans argued that protecting religious freedom was one of the Legislatures most important duties.

It is a fundamental right to be able to go to an institution of worship. Closing it down causes more harm, said Sen. Kevin Avard, R-Nashua.

All three bills previously passed the House, which will now be asked to go along with with changes made by the Senate.

In other coronavirus-related developments:

VACCINATION SITES

All state of New Hampshire-managed COVID-19 vaccination sites will be closing at the end of June, state officials said Thursday.

The sites will be closed on Monday, Memorial Day. They will reopen on Tuesday, June 1, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and at that point, will only provide second-dose vaccinations, health officials said in a news release Thursday. Those sites will close on Wednesday, June 30.

There are more than 350 locations across the state offering first-dose appointments and many locations offer walk-in service without the need for an appointment," the news release said.

___

TAX DISPUTE

The U.S. acting solicitor general has advised the U.S. Supreme Court not to hear New Hampshires request to block Massachusetts from collecting income tax from roughly 80,000 New Hampshire residents who are employed by Massachusetts companies, but have been working from home during the coronavirus pandemic.

In January, the Supreme Court asked the federal government for its opinion on whether a hearing was needed. Elizabeth Prelogar, acting U.S. solicitor general, told the court on Tuesday, This is not one of the rare cases that warrants the exercise of this Courts original jurisdiction, in which the court can settle inter-state disputes.

Under a temporary rule enacted by the Massachusetts Department of Revenue, residents of other states who were working in Massachusetts before the pandemic had remained subject to Massachusetts 5.05% income tax while they work from home. Massachusetts officials have said the regulation is similar to those adopted by other states and have declined to comment on pending litigation.

New Hampshire officials argued it represented a permanent shift in underlying policy and amounts to an aggressive attempt to impose Massachusetts income tax beyond its borders.

Gov. Chris Sununu and members of New Hampshire's congressional delegation disagreed with Prelogars opinion.

Try as they might, overreach by Washington politicians and efforts by the Biden administration will not deter New Hampshire from fighting against Massachusetts unconstitutional attempt to tax our citizens, Sununu said in a tweet.

Sens. Maggie Hassan and Jeanne Shaheen on Thursday introduced legislation that would prevent other states from taxing New Hampshire residents who telework for companies located in another state.

Granite Staters living and working in New Hampshire shouldnt have to pay another states taxes, it is as simple as that," Hassan said in a statement. This bill makes it clear once and for all that other states cannot unconstitutionally tax New Hampshire residents.

___

MASK ORDINANCE-NASHUA

Nashua officials have approved ending the city's mask ordinance.

The Board of Aldermen opted to end the ordinance on Tuesday, and it awaited a signature from Mayor Jim Donchess, The Telegraph of Nashua reported.

Local businesses could still require workers and patrons to wear masks.

The city's Board of Health voted to recommend that the city lift its mask mandate. The city has had an ordinance in place since May 2020.

___

THE NUMBERS

More than 98,000 people have tested positive for the virus in New Hampshire, including 105 cases announced Thursday. Three additional deaths were announced, bringing the total to 1,349.

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in New Hampshire decreased over the past two weeks, going from 173 new cases per day on May 11 to 70 new cases per day on Tuesday.
NEW YORK (AP)  Americans are going back to one of their favorite pastimes: store shopping.

With more people getting vaccinated and dropping their face masks, retailers from Walmart to Macy's are seeing an eager return to their stores after more than a year of their customers migrating online during the pandemic.

Marcia Williams, who lives in a Philadelphia suburb and who stuck to online shopping only during the height of COVID-19, went back to her local mall right after she was fully vaccinated last month. That was her first time in more than a year

I am definitely getting out," said Williams, a hair and makeup artist who spent nearly $1,000 on clothing for herself and her three children during several buying trips. I do feel more comfortable. I like the experience of trying on clothes. I love grocery shopping. It's my outlet.

The return to store shopping, highlighted in many retailers' earnings reports in recent days, offers a big relief in part because fewer shoppers ask for their money back after making a purchase at the store  8% compared with 25% for online, according to Forrester Research. And store customers tend to do more impulse buying. For clothing, for instance, 25% of purchases are done on a whim versus 16% online, says market research firm NPD Group Inc.

Retailers want you in the store, said Marshal Cohen, NPD's chief industry advisor. They need you to be in the store so you generate more traffic. Crowds bring more crowds. (Shoppers) buy more product.

Still, retailers  particularly mall-based stores and other specialty stores that were struggling even before the pandemic  face plenty of challenges to keep customers coming back. They face stepped up competition online and from discounters that thrived in the last year. Experts also say that post-pandemic shoppers will be even more demanding: After being forced to stay close to home, theyre looking for better and convenient services and experiences.

Many retailers like Macy's are still recovering from the pandemic, which forced them to temporarily close early last year, driving more traffic to big box stores that were allowed to stay open. And overall store traffic, while rebounding, is still not back to where it was two years ago.

Customer counts at overall stores surged 43.2% for the week starting May 10 compared to the year-ago period, but that number was still down 5.6% for that same period in 2019, says mobile-device location data from foot-traffic analytics firm Placer.ai. In clothing, customer counts soared more than two-fold for the same timeframe, but it was down 11.2% on a two-year basis. For big-box stores like Target, customer counts were up 5.3% for the same period but down 4.9% on a two-year basis.

Analysts are carefully watching the battered department store sectors market share, which shrunk from 3% in 2019 to 2% last year and has remained at that figure for the first four months of the year, according to NPD. In comparison, discounters market share held steady at 21% last year from 2019 but ticked up to 22% for the early part of this year. Overall, market share for online retail rose to 26% last year from 23% in 2019.

The pandemic pulled forward the pace of online spending by about two years. Online shopping is expected to account for 21% of overall sales, or $794 billion, in 2020 compared to the prior year and should increase to 27%, or $1.1 trillion in 2023, Forrester says. However, online sales growth is slowing down, from 29.5% last year to a projected 15.6% this year and 10% next year.

Williams, who has a makeup line called Embellish Beauty and pivoted her consulting business to online during the height of the pandemic, says she will keep about 15% of her overall buying to online purchases like soap and other essentials.

Still, physical shopping is still not the same as it was pre-COVID-19. For example, retailers' beauty counters are not yet allowing shoppers to try on makeup. Target said it will resume product sampling in stores this year where customers can take home individually wrapped items.

Williams says she's used to being served champagne when she shopped at Tiffanys. But when she was at the upscale jeweler earlier this month, there was no champagne to be had because of COVID-19 restrictions.

Those are the experiences I missed, she said.

Still, store executives are feeling optimistic  for now.

Walmart, based in Bentonville, Arkansas, said last week that transactions in its stores were up for the first time in a year. At Target, sales at stores opened at least a year jumped 18% in the three-month period that ended May 1. That follows a 6.9% increase in the previous quarter.

That trend continued this week.

Best Buy, which had earlier said that comparable store sales might fall this year, revised their expectations Thursday, saying that those sales, a critical gauge of a retailer's health, will likely rise between 3% and 6% in 2021.

Stores are seeing the return of shoppers "across all age demographics," said CEO Corie Barry on Thursday in a conference call with industry analysts.

Many retail executives say that they are adding fresh new merchandise to welcome back shoppers. Target is planning to open Ulta Beauty shops in more than 100 Target stores by mid-2021. Kohl's is getting ready to open Sephora beauty shops in 200 locations this fall. And Macy's is leaning into such areas as toys, health and wellness, pet care, food and wine.

Clearly, our customer is ready to get on with life, Macy's CEO Jeff Gennette told analysts last week. We dont see this as a short-term pop.

______

Follow Anne DInnocenzio: http://twitter.com/ADInnocenzio
Hyderabad: Quantities of amphotericin-B vials for treating black fungus are insufficient in private hospitals and ENT doctors are urging that the state government must reflect the appropriate cases for the Centre to allot the medicine.

A senior ENT doctor, on condition of anonymity, said, "When there are 30 patients, vials that are supplied can be used for treating a maximum of 18 of them. How are we to treat them? The alternative drug posaconazole is not effective and not at all helping in the recovery process. Amphotericin B is the first line of treatment and only that will help in dealing with black fungus."

Private hospitals want the government to increase the stock of medicine and ensure that there is sufficient supply like it is in the ENT Hospital.

Presently there are 258 patients in government hospitals and they all are being administered amphotericin B. Approximately 20 surgeries are performed every day. Around 20 patients have been recently shifted from Gandhi Hospital.

Chief Secretary Somesh Kumar and health secretary Syed Ali Murtuza Rizvi visited ENT Hospital Thursday evening. They advised doctors to work in two shifts and swiftly carry out surgeries so that there are early discharges.

A senior doctor at ENT Hospital explained, "We have sufficient stock of medicines to treat our patients. Most have invasion in the eyes. There are a minimum of 20 surgeries every day and it will be scaled up soon. The patients are in the 40-65 years age-group. Around 15 patients were discharged on Thursday."

A senior health official on condition of anonymity says, "Patients, by and large, are coming to the nodal centre. If there are more cases in private hospitals we are keen to verify before supplying medicines. There is a fear that there will be black marketing of the medicines for black fungus. For this reason, limited stocks are provided to private hospitals."

Private hospitals state that patients are also coming early with sinus problems. Clearing the nose region helps to save it from further spread but without the medicine the invasion will not stop. Amphothericin is an important aspect of the treatment process and without it the results will not be as expected, he said.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The Biden administration informed Russia on Thursday that it will not rejoin a key arms control pact, even as the two sides prepare for a summit next month between their leaders, the State Department said.

U.S. officials said Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman told the Russians that the administration had decided not to reenter the Open Skies Treaty, which had allowed surveillance flights over military facilities in both countries before President Donald Trump withdrew from the pact. As a presidential candidate, Biden had criticized Trump's withdrawal as short-sighted.

Thursday's decision means only one major arms control treaty between the nuclear powers  the New START treaty  will remain in place. Trump had done nothing to extend New START, which would have expired earlier this year, but after taking office, the Biden administration moved quickly to extend it for five years and opened a review into Trump's Open Skies Treaty withdrawal.

The officials said that the review had been completed and that Sherman had informed Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov of the U.S. decision not to return to the 1992 Open Skies Treaty. The officials were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. The State Department later announced the move.

The United States regrets that the Treaty on Open Skies has been undermined by Russias violations, the department said. In concluding its review of the treaty, the United States therefore does not intend to seek to rejoin it, given Russias failure to take any actions to return to compliance. Further, Russias behavior, including its recent actions with respect to Ukraine, is not that of a partner committed to confidence-building.

The announcement comes ahead of a meeting between President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin on June 16 in Geneva, Switzerland. They will try to find common ground amid a sharp deterioration in ties that have sunk relations to their lowest point in decades. Yet, Biden, who had supported the treaty as a senator, had been highly critical of Trump's pullout.

In announcing the intent to withdraw from the Open Skies Treaty, President Trump has doubled down on his short-sighted policy of going it alone and abandoning American leadership, then-candidate Biden said in May 2020.

The Open Skies Treaty was intended to build trust between Russia and the West by allowing the accords more than three dozen signatories to conduct reconnaissance flights over each others territories to collect information about military forces and activities. More than 1,500 flights have been conducted under the treaty since it took effect in 2002, aimed at fostering transparency and allowing for the monitoring of arms control and other agreements.

The Trump administration announced the U.S. withdrawal from the treaty last year, and the lower house of Russias parliament voted last week to follow suit. But until Thursday, the two sides had said the treaty could still be salvaged. Russian officials said they were willing to reconsider their withdrawal if the U.S. did the same.

The upper house of Russias parliament, the Federation Council, was expected to approve the withdrawal bill on June 2, and once Putin signed the measure, it would take six months for the Russian exit to take effect.

Thursdays notification, however, appears to mark the end of the treaty, which was broadly supported by U.S. allies in Europe and Democrats in Congress as a trust-building measure between the former Cold War adversaries.

In pulling out of the pact, Trump argued that Russian violations made it untenable for Washington to remain a party to the agreement. Washington completed its withdrawal from the treaty in November, but the Biden administration had said it was not opposed to rejoining it.

The officials stressed the Biden administrations willingness to cooperate with Russia on issues of mutual concern and noted the extension of New START, which was initially signed in 2010 by President Barack Obama and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. The pact limits each country to no more than 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads and 700 deployed missiles and bombers, and envisages sweeping on-site inspections to verify compliance.

However, the officials said that despite appeals for Russia to abide by the Open Skies Treaty, there was no practical way for the U.S. to reverse the Trump administrations decision to withdraw. One official said that since Biden had taken office, Russia had demonstrated a complete absence of progress in taking steps to return to compliance.

The officials said Secretary of State Antony Blinken, national security adviser Jake Sullivan and other senior American officials had warned their Russian counterparts in the past week that a decision on Open Skies was imminent. Blinken met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Iceland last week, and Sullivan spoke with Putin's national security adviser, Nikolay Patrushev, on Monday.

Moscow had deplored the U.S. pullout, warning that it would erode global security by making it more difficult for governments to interpret the intentions of other nations, particularly amid heightened Russia-West tensions over myriad issues, including Ukraine, cyber malfeasance and the treatment of Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny and his supporters.

Leading congressional Democrats and members of the European Union had urged the U.S. to reconsider its exit and called on Russia to stay in the pact and lift flight restrictions, notably over its westernmost Kaliningrad region, which lies between NATO allies Lithuania and Poland.

Russia had insisted the restrictions on observation flights it imposed in the past were permissible under the treaty and noted that the U.S. imposed more sweeping restrictions on observation flights over Alaska.

As a condition for staying in the pact after the U.S. pullout, Moscow had unsuccessfully pushed for guarantees from NATO allies that they wouldnt hand over the data collected during their observation flights over Russia to the U.S.
In the months leading up to Novembers election, voting officials in major cities and counties worked with a progressive group funded by Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg and its allies to create ballots, strategically target voters and develop cure letters in situations where mail-in ballots were in danger of being tossed out.

The Center for Tech and Civic Life, or CTCL, provided millions of dollars in private funding for the elections that came from a $350 million donation from Zuckerberg and his wife, Priscilla Chan. The CTCL gave COVID-19 response grants of varying amounts to 2,500 municipalities in 49 states.

In exchange for the money, elections divisions agreed to conduct their elections according to conditions set out by the CTCL, which is led by former members of the New Organizing Institute, a training center for progressive groups and Democratic campaigns.

A CTCL partner, the Center for Civic Design, helped design absentee ballot forms and instructions, crafted voter registration letters for felons and tested automatic voter registration systems in several states, working alongside progressive activist groups in Michigan and directly with elections offices in Georgia and Utah.

Still other groups with a progressive leaning, including the Main Street Alliance, The Elections Group and the National Vote at Home Institute, provided support for some elections offices.

Facebook, with the CTCL, was also part of the effort, providing a guide and webinar for election officials on how to engage voters. Included were directions to report voter interference to Facebook authorities. The company also provided designated employees in six regions of the U.S. to handle questions. Together, the groups strategically targeted voters and waged a voter assistance campaign aimed at low-income and minority residents who typically shun election participation, helping Democratic candidates win key spots all over the U.S.

The little-explored roles of CTCL and other such groups emerged in emails and other records obtained by RealClearInvestigations and public documents secured by conservative litigants and groups, including the Foundation for Government Accountability, which has filed more than 800 public records requests with elections offices accepting the grants.

Previously, the Zuckerberg-funded effort has been described in generally positive terms, notably when NPR reported in December on "How Private Money From Facebook's CEO Saved The 2020 Election" -- in the face of the coronavirus pandemic, President Trump's doubts about the legitimacy of the process and "Congress' neglect."

Conservatives take a more critical view the effort. This private funding has never been done before, said Hayden Dublois, a researcher at the Foundation of Government Accountability . We hear about dark money and corporations buying ads, but never have we seen hundreds of millions of private dollars going into the conducting of elections. And states didnt have any laws on the books to stop it.

Numerous Trump supporters contend that the 2020 presidential election was rigged or even stolen but have produced little concrete evidence to prove it. But their suspicions arent likely to be dispelled by the efforts of the private progressive groups, however legal.

They are among other notable instances of monied interests underwriting public governance and affairs for political ends. In 2018, RCI reported that a New York University School of Law program funded by billionaire Michael Bloomberg had placed environmentally minded lawyers in the offices of Democratic state attorneys general to challenge Trump administration policies. And examples of private efforts to steer cash-strapped public education are numerous, from the Koch charities on the right to more recent race-conscious programs on the left emphasizing the legacy and centrality of white racism in society.

Zuckerberg did not respond to an emailed request from RCI for comment. In a post-election interview, he praised Facebooks security work during the election and singled out its policing of misinformation. He noted working with polling officials to watch for information that might lead to voter suppression and said Facebook had strengthened its enforcement against militias and conspiracy networks like Q-Anon. Facebook has banned Trump from its platform and has delisted individuals  many of them conservatives -- for espousing views about the election that it insists are misinformation.

'Curing Absentee Ballots'

According to court documents filed by the Thomas More Society, a conservative law firm, the Zuckerberg-funded CTCL allowed elections departments to use grant money to buy vehicles to transport voter navigators. The group filed unsuccessful lawsuits in several states before the election, contending the private funding created unconstitutional public-private partnerships. Several other suits remain active.

The election department in Green Bay, Wis., promised as part of its CTCL grant of $1 million that it would employ the vote navigators to assist voters, potentially at their front doors, to answer questions  and witnessing absentee ballot signatures, according to documents filed in legal complaints in Wisconsin by Erick Kaardal, a Minneapolis-based lawyer who has worked on the Thomas More Society lawsuits.

Caleb Jeffreys, one of at least two voter navigators in Green Bay, described his duties as including curing absentee ballots. Jeffreys, now a city employee in Green Bay according to his LinkedIn profile, did not respond to an interview request.

Tiana Epps-Johnson, founder of CTCL; Whitney May, director of government services for CTCL; and Hillary Hall, senior adviser to state and local election officials for the National Vote at Home Institute, did not respond to interview requests.

Navigators in Green Bay were also part of voter registration efforts, emails show. They worked closely with a local nonprofit group, which requested that public employees work voter registration events. At least two city employees attended with equipment to conduct voter registration and help people apply for an absentee ballot.

Agents from CTCL trained poll workers in Georgia and paid for other individuals to count and tabulate ballots in Wisconsin, which was won by President Trump in 2016 and President Biden won in November by 20,000 votes.

Emails show that Michael Spitzer-Rubenstein, a fellow with the National Vote at Home Institute, directed Green Bay city employees in gathering and counting absentee ballots on Election Day, and that he was granted access by the city to secured areas and served as an on-site contact for the department on election night.

Rubenstein, who did not respond to a call seeking an interview, also provided help in curing ballots that were turned in without the appropriate information, including a signature or address.

Dozens of states require voting clerks to inform voters if their ballot has been filled out incorrectly, giving the voter a chance to fix the ballot and have it accepted. In Wisconsin, that practice is encouraged but not mandatory, under the reasoning that it can drain manpower from other tasks.

But with the grant money provided by CTCL, additional manpower made the time-consuming task feasible, freeing up money for more voter recruitment and outreach.

In Lansing, Mich., the elections department used its $443,000 grant to buy more absentee ballot drop boxes and mail absentee ballot applications to every registered voter.

In Georgia, the grants were used to expand curbside voting and conduct the necessary voter outreach  to promote absentee voting and encourage higher percentages of our electors to vote absentee, according to a grant application.

Documents inspected by RealClearInvestigations also showed:

In Lowndes County, Ga., CTCL grant money was used to pay $15,000 in attorney fees through June. A county elections official told RCI that the money was paid to lawyers handling public records requests stemming from the elections, a process that she expects will last into the summer.

CTCL was very lenient regarding what we could spend the money on, Deb Cox, Lowndes County elections supervisor, said. They put virtually no restrictions on it as long as it relates to the election.

Mahoning County, Ohio, spent $3,500 on a student to monitor Twitter and Facebook and report any bad actors that may want to disrupt our operations, one local official stated in its grant report. Grant money was also spent to produce a training video for elections workers.

Election officials in Lorain County, Ohio, paid an $8,100 Verizon bill and spent $24,000 on a van at a local car dealership. The van was used to transport equipment between a warehouse and the elections department, an elections official told RCI.

In Boone County, Mo., the elections department used $3,000 of the COVID grant to make a rap video and buy radio spots. We did a rap video to appeal to younger, first-time voters, Brianna Lennon, Boone County clerk, said. We wanted to keep it popular in a format that would have the most appeal to young voters. 

Elections departments received millions of extra dollars in federal aid in 2020, including $400 million in CARES Act funding and $425 million in federal Help America Vote Act grants.

Despite the influx of public money, elections departments across the U.S. were hamstrung because of the pandemic, said Ben Hovland, a Trump appointee to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, which administers grants to the states.

Hovland praised the CTCL for providing the money to run elections.

This was a very unique set of circumstances, and what you heard from election officials was that this [private] money was going for the basics of trying to help people vote, keeping people safe, postage  really the basics, Hovland said.

He was unaware of the spending on rap videos, trucks, lawyers, vote navigators and phone bills with the private money.

That runs contradictory to what Ive heard from most election officials, he said. But every jurisdiction runs their election different, and each has its own way to spend money, so I cant speak to any of that. It wasnt federal funds. It wasnt taxpayer money.

As to the need for the money, not all jurisdictions that received a CTCL grant used it. The elections office in Miami-Dade County, Fla., received $2.4 million from CTCL, but did not spend it immediately, instead receiving a six-month extension to use the money. Several other municipalities did not spend the entirety of their grants and have received extensions.

Boosting Democratic Turnout

Vote margins in many of the areas receiving CTCL funding showed increased Democratic voter turnout, part of a strategy to boost the margins enough in Democrat-friendly areas to overcome Republican margins.

President Trump took the reliably Republican state of Missouri in 2020, but Joe Biden increased the Democratic presidential vote and won Boone County by 7,000 votes. Hillary Clinton had a 5,000-vote margin in 2016.

In Webb County, Texas, which received $2.8 million from CTCL, voter registrations increased by 10,000 over 2016. The new recruits in the South Texas county voted for Biden by a two to one margin.

In Fairfax County, Va., which received $1.4 million in CTCL funding, Democrats increased voter turnout by 65,458 compared with a 10,564 increase by Republicans in 2020 versus 2016. The state, which trends Democratic, went to Biden.

While seven states have passed legislation this year prohibiting or limiting elections departments from accepting private funding, far more allow it and it will certainly continue, said Kaardal, the Minneapolis-based lawyer.

Kaardal contends the plan by these operatives, working in league with some election officials, was to increase the absentee ballot turnout among demographic groups that favored their candidates and to offset the margins by Republicans, typically in areas outside cities.

It was a pay-to-play scheme, where in exchange for taking this money, the CTCL gets to tell them how to run the election, he said. And it will happen again in 2022.

In Texas, U.S. District Judge Amos Mazzant III, appointed by President Obama, ruled in favor of the private funding with a stance that was typical among the judiciary in various federal districts and states.

Ultimately, plaintiffs complain that people with different political views will lawfully exercise their fundamental right to vote, Mazzant ruled. That is not a harm. That is democracy.

Its a democracy embraced by elections officials across the U.S. who called the 2020 elections the most secure ever.

Paul Adams, elections supervisor in Ohios Lorain County, is eager to accept more private grant money after his department received $435,000 for the fall election.

If anything like this came along in the future, I would certainly apply, Adams said. Hes convinced the CTCL is a nonpartisan group trying to make voting safe and easy, and cant understand why some states are trying to halt private money in public elections.

I dont think its the grants these people are mad about, Adams said. Its more a matter of where they came from.
Montanas high court rejected two lawsuits this week challenging new laws affecting higher education in the state, including the law expanding gun carry on college campuses.

On Wednesday, the Montana Supreme Court dismissed both suits and a request for an immediate stay of a June 1 campus carry law without prejudice, saying in the orders that the plaintiffs could seek recourse through a district court. Both plaintiffs plan to refile the lawsuits.

The Board of Regents filed a lawsuit with the Supreme Court earlier this month challenging House Bill 102, which expands firearm carry in the state, including on college campuses. The regents had also asked the court to stay the June 1 implementation of the law.

After the courts decision, a spokesperson for the university system said the regents would refile the case in a district court.

A second suit filed May 20 by a coalition of higher education leaders, university representatives and students challenged four laws that were passed by the Montana Legislature this session, including HB 102. Their suit was also dismissed on Wednesday.

Jim Goetz, a Bozeman-based attorney representing members of the coalition, said the group planned to file in district court.

Goetz said the Montana Supreme Court decided to dismiss the case because they deemed it wasnt sufficiently urgent to be heard directly by the highest court in the state.

The Board of Regents was slated to vote Wednesday on a new firearm carry policy that aligns with the law. But the board decided to wait until after a decision from the Montana Supreme Court. The court made its decision hours later.

The regents meeting is scheduled to continue at 8:30 a.m. Thursday. The university system spokesperson said the board planned no further action during its Thursday meeting.

During Wednesdays meeting, Regent Brianne Rogers, chair of the academic, research and student affairs committee, recommended delaying any revisions to the current policy on security and law enforcement operations.

Rogers also acknowledged the large amount of feedback the board has received on HB 102.

To date, we have received more than 5,600 written comments and over 900 people who joined our ARSA committee listening session on May 12, including verbal public comment from over 70 people that day, Rogers said. We take the public comment process very seriously and hearing from the public has helped us inform our decisions.

Rogers said the board has not reviewed its security and law enforcement operations policy since 2012. She recommended that, given the high level of public interest, the board undertake a review of the policy in coordination with campuses in the university system.

A better understanding of how the policies have been implemented and if there are complaints will allow the board to decide if any changes are needed, she said.

Earlier this month, the Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education released a draft policy that would follow HB 102. It outlined the certification process, restrictions, campus housing roles and enforcement of firearm carry on university system campuses.
A man has been ordered to stay away from large areas of rural Lancashire after he was sentenced for hare coursing on farmland.

Daniel Ratchford, 36, was handed a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) which will last for 5 years, banning him from entering vast areas around West Lancashire and Sefton.

The order prevents him from being part of a group of two or more people who are in control of any dog anywhere in England and Wales.

Hare coursing, illegal in the UK under the Hunting Act 2004, is a blood-sport where dogs are used to chase, catch and kill hares.

An investigation into Ratchford began after police received information that he was committing poaching offences on farmland, allowing his Lurcher-cross dogs to kill wild rabbits and hares.

As a result, Lancashire Police's Rural Task Force executed a warrant at Ratchfords property in the early hours of 11 March 2021.

He is also prohibited from trespassing on any land and from acting in a manner that causes or is likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress.

Ratchford was given the CBO after previously being found guilty of four poaching offences, hunting wild animals with dogs and five breaches of a Dog Disqualification Order.

In addition, he was also handed a 32 week custodial sentence suspended for two years, a 16-week 7pm  6am tagged curfew and a 50 day Rehabilitation Order.

PC Paddy Stewart, of the Task Force, said Ratchford had shown 'absolutely no regard for animals rights to live peacefully in the wild'.

He added that Ratchford's crimes also had 'far-reaching impacts' on farming and rural communities.

The fact is that offenders like Ratchford know that animals like hares dont die instantly after one bite from a dog, they are agile are often are unsuccessfully grabbed several times, causing graphic injuries and distress.

"And thats if they survive; the vast majority die suffering and screaming in agonising pain."

He added: "I hope that this result shows those who commit these types of offences, whether that be against wildlife or farming, we have a dedicated team of officers and we will find you."

It comes as Suffolk Constabulary recently warned hare coursers that their vehicles could be seized and crushed if they were caught and convicted.
The NFU has called on HS2 Ltd to 'drastically improve' its engagement with farmers after a new report has accused the firm of poor communication with those affected by the project.

The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman said the company behind HS2 had 'failed to properly engage' with an NFU member over the sale of their family home to make way for the train line.

The investigation found HS2 was 'dishonest, misleading and inconsistent', and the organisation 'failed to follow its own processes' when negotiating compensation claims.

This meant there was a 'breakdown of trust', according to the report, which was released on Thursday (27 May).

The complainant had already suffered from HS2s delays to his communitys response to the original HS2 public consultation.

Rob Behrens, Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman, said: "HS2s repeated maladministration had a devastating impact on the complainant and their family.

"HS2 must properly engage with those affected by the new line, be open and transparent and follow the proper process to make sure this never happens again."

Compulsory land purchases have been necessary to make way for the project, which, from 2026, will link London with the West Midlands.

But farming groups have long complained that HS2 Ltd does not communicate well enough with those affected, or provide compensation quickly enough.

The NFU said the new report had again 'thrown into sharp focus' what many farming families living on the route of HS2 had to 'endure day in-day out, year after year'.

It said that HS2 Ltd must 'drastically improve' its engagement with farmers affected by the project, many of who were 'left distressed' due to uncertainty and financial pressures.

The union's deputy president Stuart Roberts said: It is completely unacceptable that the communication, engagement and lack of negotiation between HS2 and farmers remains so very poor.

"HS2 is still failing to provide relevant information to farmers meaning they are unable to negotiate and conclude their compensation claims.

HS2 should properly engage with those farmers impacted by the route, be open and transparent and follow the proper due processes."

The Country Land and Business Association (CLA), which represents 28,000 farmers and landowners, called for an independent body to handle HS2 complaints.

Chief surveyor Andrew Shirley said: "While the scale of the infrastructure scheme often grabs the headlines, too little attention is paid to those whose homes and livelihoods are threatened by the scheme - the financial impact and prolonged emotional pressure of which is unimaginable.

"One can never just hope that organisations such as HS2 will simply do the right thing - you need robust measures in place to ensure they do."
An online meat company is using an innovative funding scheme to help the revival one of Britains rarest livestock breeds, the White Park cattle.

North Yorkshire-based Farmison & Co has bought a herd of the rare breed, which were once associated with Druids and Celts.

The herd and their young calves are now grazing on a farm in Wensleydale, and under the scheme the farmer will pay for the livestock over 18 months.

When the cows are ready to calve again, a bull will be acquired to expand the herd.

Not only does it spread the financial cost for the farmer, Farmison & Co will provide an outlet for the meat, reducing the risks of rearing and managing these rare animals.

The Ripon meat company has previously piloted the scheme to build up Dexter breed cattle and now has a herd of 150.

Although they have been part of the British landscape for more than 2,000 years, White Park cattle, closely descended from wild cattle, came close to extinction as other breeds came into favour.

Numbers plunged as low as 60 in 1973, but have since recovered to 950 breeding cows, though they are still classed as at risk by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust.

The cows and calves bought by Farmison & Co are registered with the White Park Cattle Society, and they will graze on pastures in the Yorkshire Dales National Park

Farmer Stuart Raw will be the custodian of the herd and manage breeding and expansion.

Were in a position where we can help to promote one of the rarest and most ancient breeds in the country by building the breed up.

"These rare breeds are saved by eating them. The fabulous flavours of the meat speak for itself, he said.

Farmison has built up a customer base for its heritage breeds beef, including Red Poll, Aberdeen Angus, Shorthorn, Galloway, Dexter and Sussex.

Now they are being invited to support the revival of White Park cattle when the meat goes on sale, around the end of 2022.

John Pallagi, CEO Farmison & Co said: Weve shown there is a proven demand for heritage breed meat and consumers appreciate its taste and quality.

"So long as customers demand this type of beef, these breeds will have a guaranteed future.

Through our innovative scheme, we can offer farmers financial support and give them the confidence that there is a market for beef produced from this beautiful breed.
2020 was a year marked by hardships and challenges, but the Fauquier community has proven resilient. The Fauquier Times is honored to serve as your community companion. To say thank you for your continued support, wed like to offer all our subscribers -- new or returning --

4 WEEKS FREE DIGITAL AND PRINT ACCESS.

We understand the importance of working to keep our community strong and connected. As we move forward together into 2021, it will take commitment, communication, creativity, and a strong connection with those who are most affected by the stories we cover.

We are dedicated to providing the reliable, local journalism you have come to expect. We are committed to serving you with renewed energy and growing resources. Let the Fauquier Times be your community companion throughout 2021, and for many years to come.
The Fauquier Times is honored to serve as your community companion. To say thank you, we are excited to offer 4 weeks FREE Digital & Print access to all subscribers new and returning alike.

We are dedicated to continuing providing reliable, high quality journalism. This is possible with the trust and support of our subscribers in the community we are proud to serve.
Oak Hill, WV (25901)

Today

Cloudy early with isolated thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High near 80F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

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Scattered thunderstorms during the evening. Partly cloudy skies after midnight. Low 62F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
A decision will also likely be taken by the first week of June on the conduct of theory exams that were earlier postponed due to the Covid-19 spread. (Representational Photo: DC)

Hyderabad: The Telangana State Board of Intermediate Education (TSBIE) on Thursday announced the postponement of practical examinations for the second year general courses and first and second year vocational courses, in view of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The exams were earlier scheduled from May 29 to June 7, and have now been postponed until further orders. The circular released on Thursday added that a review meeting will take place in the first week of June, and the pratical examination dates will be announced at least 15 days prior to the exams.

A decision will also likely be taken by the first week of June on the conduct of theory exams that were earlier postponed due to the Covid-19 spread. As per sources, the exams will likely take place between mid-July and September.

The CBSE had proposed the timeline in a meeting with the Union education minister earlier this week. The Telangana state government is likely to go by the CBSE's decision, an official in the education department had told Deccan Chronicle.

Meanwhile, the results for the SSC examinations were released earlier this month, and the Intermediate Board has opened admissions to the first year for the new academic year 2021-22.
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TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 26, 2021 / NEXGENRX INC. (TSXV:NXG) ("NexgenRx" or the "Company") is pleased to announce its interim financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2021, which continue to build upon the Company's 2020 results, which showed record growth in both EBITDA and net profit. For Q1 2021, the Company recorded EBITDA of $693,699, representing an increase of $103,806 over same prior year period and continuing the positive trend from 2020. In spite of the COVID-19 lockdown in Ontario, the Company saw only a slight drop of $71k in revenue in Q1 2021 (as compared to Q4 2020), with net income for the quarter of $362,111, representing an increase of $77,520 over Q1 2020.

During the most recently completed quarter, the Company generated increased EBITDA and shareholder free cash flow, operated effectively and safely through the pandemic, paid down debt and further lowered costs. Management has emphasized keeping the Company's costs low, while looking for further cost-reduction opportunities. These efforts have shown their value in the Company's ability to generate additional shareholder value.

The effective cost containment measures resulted in a reduction of $301,141 or 13.15% in operating expenses compared to same prior year period, contributing to the Company's positive cash flow. These results have been achieved while ensuring that NexgenRx customers continue to receive the level of services they expect, while keeping the Company's expenses under control.

The Company continues to make significant advances with its technology. Its major .NET project re-write was completed on time and on budget. As a result, the Company's new NexSys technology platform will be implemented in Q2. These projects represent an investment of more than $2.5 million, which has been funded with internally generated cash flow. In addition, the Company has completed development and implementation of the new version of its H-Proxy EDI Transaction monitor, adding significant capacity to manage sequential transactions volumes from across the network.

The Company generated adequate cashflow to fund all of these investments and financial obligations during the first quarter. Management continues to monitor and analyze the extent of the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which could continue to be material with the new variants identified recently. While the full impact and duration of the pandemic continues to remain unknown, Management is committed to take all necessary steps to keep revenue and expenses aligned to maintain the continued financial success of the Company.

"We are pleased to report another quarter of positive financial results. These results continue to build on our record setting EBITDA and net profit growth from 2020. With the significant cost savings that we have managed and the retirement of all outstanding debt, we expect to be well positioned to continue to expand on the delivery of value to our shareholders and customers" stated Ron Loucks, President & CEO.

About NexgenRx

NexgenRx is Canada's only independent full-service Third-Party Administrator and Technology Solutions Provider, offering proprietary full front-end, eligibility, enrolment, hour bank and mobile access capabilities, together with state-of-the-art claims adjudication and full provider network coverage. These combined capabilities allow NexgenRx to provide Plan Sponsors, sophisticated administration and health benefit technology applications in a cost-effective SaaS (Software As a Service) Model.

NexgenRx is committed to building partnerships with organizations looking to exceed the expectations of their clients and plan members and deliver superior administration and claims processing solutions at a competitive cost. More information on NexgenRx can be found at www.nexgenrx.com.

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Except for statements of historical fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. We cannot guarantee future results, performance or achievements. Consequently, there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking information.

Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made, and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Some of the risks and other factors that could cause the results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information include, but are not limited to: uncertainty as to whether our strategies and business plans will yield the expected benefits; availability and cost of capital; the ability to identify and develop and achieve commercial success for existing and new products and technologies; the level of expenditures necessary to maintain and improve the quality of products and services; changes in technology and changes in laws and regulations; continued development and enhancement of the Company's proprietary software technology; cyber security risks and the other risks and uncertainties disclosed in our annual Management's Discussion and Analysis, as filed under our profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Readers are cautioned that this list of risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive.

The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. We undertake no duty to update any of the forward-looking information to conform such information to actual results or to changes in our expectations except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

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 the release.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Ronald C. Loucks

NexgenRx Inc.

President and CEO

416.695.3393 x801

Kelly Ehler CPA, CA

NexgenRx Inc.

Chief Financial Officer

416-695-3393x803

SOURCE: NexgenRx Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/649361/NexgenRx-Announces-Financial-Results-for-Q1-2021-with-Continued-EBITDA-and-Net-Profit-Growth
Celebrity Cruises leads industry with first major cruise ship approved to sail from America

MIAMI, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) has received approval to resume sailings from the United States after more than a year of suspended operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. On June 26, the cruise company will mark a long-awaited return with Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Edge departing from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale.

"Cruising from the U.S. is back!" said Richard D. Fain, Royal Caribbean Group chairman and CEO. "After months of working with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other government officials, our Healthy Sail Panel and industry partners, we can again offer cruise lovers the chance to enjoy the wonders of cruising. We are truly thankful to reach this special milestone."

The cruise company's return is heralded with a sailing on its much lauded, state-of-the-art, luxury ship Celebrity Edge. The ship was given the go-ahead by the CDC to be the first ship back in the water, meeting all new standards for delivering a safe and healthy cruise experience for guests and crew. The inaugural sailing from Fort Lauderdale sets the stage for Royal Caribbean Group to announce additional itineraries, reviving local U.S. port economies and kick-starting the rebound in cruise tourism around the world.

All sailings will depart with vaccinated crew and everyone over the age of 16 must present proof of vaccination against COVID-19; as of August 1, 2021, all guests ages 12 and older must present proof of vaccination.

About Royal Caribbean Group

Royal Caribbean Group is the operating business name for Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Royal Caribbean Group is the owner and operator of three global cruise vacation brands: Royal Caribbean International , Celebrity Cruises , and Silversea Cruises . Royal Caribbean Group is also a 50% owner of a joint venture that operates TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. Together, our brands operate 59 ships with an additional 15 on order as of March 15, 2021. Learn more at www.royalcaribbeangroup.com or www.rclinvestor.com .

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ZIONSVILLE, IN / ACCESSWIRE / May 26, 2021 / Reindeer Auto recently launched its new website. The industry leader in domestic, international, and freight of any kind relocation updated its website making it more user-friendly. The new website is also more mobile responsive for optimized function and viewing on devices of different sizes. The layout and content adapt based on the size of the screen such as a mobile phone or a laptop.

In business since 1997, Reindeer Auto has dedicated itself to providing the highest level of service to its customers. It serves the general public as well as handle corporate relocation, and exports. Their extensive network of reputable, licensed, bonded and insured carriers allow cars or freight of any kind to be relocated almost anywhere in the world.

Reindeer Auto's new website is essential to Google's Core Web Vitals which took effect in 2021. This allows a score by speed and user interaction revealing if Reindeer Auto's website is performing well for its customers. According to the latest statistics, over half of the web traffic is viewed on a mobile device. The new website addresses these issues to ensure an effective experience for its customers.

"We are always improving ways for our customers to have the best experience," says Debbie Boyce, CEO of Reindeer Auto. " From the moment they call us, or visit our website, to the moment they receive their car or freight, we strive to provide them with the highest quality of service."

Reindeer Auto headquarters is located in Zionsville, Indiana. Its extensive network is licensed, bonded, and insured. Its logistics team has the experience needed to oversee the details in planning unique moves. Relocation services are provided by air, rail, or water freight. For more information on Reindeer Auto, or to contact, go to https://reindeerauto.com/.

For more information about Reindeer Auto Relocation, contact the company here:

Reindeer Auto Relocation

Debbie Boyce

18004280589

debbie.boyce@reindeerauto.com

5100 Charles Ct

Zionsville

IN 46077

SOURCE: Reindeer Auto Relocation

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/649362/Reindeer-Autos-New-Website-is-More-Mobile-Friendly
BANGALORE, India and SINGAPORE, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- CSS Corp, a global customer experience and technology consulting services provider, today announced that its board has unanimously chosen Sunil Mittal as the organization's next Chief Executive Officer. Sunil Mittal, currently the Chief Operating Officer at CSS Corp will take up the new role effective July 1st succeeding Manish Tandon who is stepping down after engineering a successful turnaround and generating tremendous value for investors. In addition, Sunil will also join the company's Board of Directors upon assuming his new role.

"After a well thought out and executed succession plan, we are pleased to have found the best individual to assume leadership of this world-class technology and customer experience services organization," said Sanjay Chakrabarty, Chairman of CSS Corp's Board of Directors and Managing Partner of Capital Square Partners, a Singapore based private equity fund manager and majority shareholder of the company. "In his current role as the COO and in his prior role as the company's Chief Revenue Officer, Sunil has architected unprecedented revenue momentum and pipeline for the company. We are confident that he will be able to build upon this foundation and take the organization to the next level. Sunil's strong business acumen and industry knowledge deeply connects with CSS Corp's clientele and operations, and his leadership qualities make him best suited to lead CSS Corp successfully into the future."

"We are extremely thankful to Manish Tandon, CEO for his contributions to CSS Corp. Under his dynamic leadership, CSS Corp made a successful turnaround over the past four and a half years and grew at 25% in the latest financial year ending 31-Mar-2021. Manish used innovation and technology as the underpinning of the turnaround strategy and created CSS Labs which is recognized as an innovator in this space. He also built a world class management team and established strong data driven processes leading to industry leading profitability and scalability of the business.

"I'm honored and grateful to the board for the opportunity to lead this exceptional organization of passionate, customer-centric and talented professionals," said Sunil Mittal. "We are redefining traditional services through our unique intersection of industry-leading proprietary solutions, resilient operations, and innovative business engagement models. We are well-positioned to continue our growth momentum with our compelling value propositions. I'm excited about this opportunity and look forward to collaborate closely with our clients and employees."

Mittal has had an illustrious career of over 22 years in the technology services industry. He spent 18 years at Infosys across multiple geographies, managing large client accounts, incubating new business capabilities, and building C-level relationships. He joined CSS Corp over four and a half years back and managed global sales, marketing, presales, and account management. Recently, he took over as Chief Operating Officer where he assumed the responsibility of global client delivery and IT, in addition to his existing portfolio. He serves on several association boards, including the Partner Advisory Board of the Technology Services Industry Association, and is a member of the Forbes Business Council. He currently resides in Dallas, Texas.

Manish Tandon expressed his confidence in the board's choice. "Sunil is a remarkable leader who has been one of the chief architects of our success over the years at CSS Corp. I'm very happy with how the organization has turned around and is well positioned for growth under his leadership. I carry with me, the goodwill and best wishes of almost 9,000 employees and the board. It has been a very rewarding journey for me and all stakeholders with CSS Corp over the last 5 years, and I wish Sunil the very best. "

About Capital Square Partners

Capital Square Partners ("CSP") is a private equity fund manager based in Singapore, and regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). CSP advises funds investing across growth capital and buyouts supporting high performance management teams to build leading digital businesses. With deep sector expertise across technology, media and telecommunications, business services, healthcare, and consumer sectors, CSP has supported management teams to scale businesses across multiple geographies and create transformational value. Additional information on CSP can be found at http://www.capitalsquarepartners.com

About CSS Corp

CSS Corp is a global customer experience and technology services provider, disrupting the industry with a unique intersection of industry-leading proprietary solutions, resilient operations, and innovative business engagement models. The company is a digital transformation partner of choice for its clients, which include the world's top innovators across industries, from mid-market players to large enterprises. Its diverse team of over 9,000 customer-centric thinkers, collaborators, and co-creators across 18 global locations, is passionate about helping clients succeed through intelligent automation-led outcomes. The company has overcome macroeconomic headwinds to become the industry's fastest growing and most awarded company in its revenue range. To know more, please visit https://www.csscorp.com.

Follow CSS Corp on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.

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The collaboration will combine Envision Digital's world-class AIoT operating system with other PORTable innovations to achieve carbon neutral by 2050

SINGAPORE, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Envision Digital International Pte Ltd ("Envision Digital"), a global Net Zero partner and Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) technology leader, today announced a collaboration with the Port of Antwerp by its local European entities in Netherlands and France, to develop green port solutions to reduce amongst others, greenhouse gases (GHG) in ports. The collaboration named: 'Portable Innovation Open Network for Efficiency and Emissions Reduction Solutions (PIONEERS)' represents leading ports, terminal and transport operators, forwarders, knowledge institutes, technology developers, innovators, and public entities.

PIONEERS is a highly ambitious project, rethinking all aspects of port operations ranging from terminal operations, concession agreements, mobility, connectivity, fuels to models for cooperation and production, storage and use of energy. The actions include renewable energy generation and deployment of electric, hydrogen and methanol vehicles; building and heating networks retrofit for energy efficiency; implementation of circular economy approaches in infrastructure works; automation; and deployment of digital platforms to promote modal shift and ensure optimised vehicle, vessel and container movements.

Port of Antwerp will function as lighthouse port, hosting the majority of demonstrators and showcasing a real-life Green Port. The project will receive a 25 million grant from the European Horizon 2020 programme and has a timeframe of five years starting at the end of 2021. The ports of Barcelona, Constanta and the municipality of Venlo, as fellows, will play an active role in maximising the transferability of the solutions and are engaged to implement the best practices from the project.

This collaboration will leverage Envision Digital's EnOS AIoT technology to build a Port Digital Twin, modelling, simulating, optimising, and monitoring port activities, including logistics, maintenance, traffic and energy consumption. Harnessing both AI and IoT, the Digital Twin will integrate with other PORTable innovations at the Port of Antwerp, and focus on CO2 emissions, portal logistic multimodal asset flows and portal people flow.

In addition, Envision Digital will implement a complete intelligent Energy Management System (iEMS) with monitoring and optimisation for the Europort terminal in the port. The AIoT software will optimise and control smart charging of Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in connection with local grid metering and installed wind turbines, in order to optimise EV-charging, maximise green energy self-consumption and decarbonisation. Envision Digital's AI-based forecasting capabilities will also be leveraged to anticipate electricity demand and supply, as input into the overall electric system optimisation.

"Envision Digital is thrilled to support ambitious multi-dimensional optimisation of the port activities to drive better performance while reducing emissions," said Sylvie Ouziel, International President, Envision Digital. "Net Zero ports and Net Zero industry parks clearly constitute the 'next frontiers' for decarbonisation, and we are quite excited to be pioneering and partnering, in those spaces, together with prominent consortium members."

About Envision Digital:

Having set challenging individual goals for carbon neutrality, Envision Digital is committed to becoming the world's leading Net Zero technology partner for enterprises, governments and cities alike. Its world-class AIoT technology helps governments and companies across the world accelerate progress toward a Net Zero future and improve their citizens' quality of life. Having established itself as a leading solutions provider for intelligent renewable energy generation, consumption efficiency and smart and flexible storage, it has extended its capabilities beyond energy to enable and optimise applications - notably in smart cities, smart buildings and estates, smart plants, smart infrastructures and e-mobility.

EnOS, Envision Digital's proprietary AIoT operating system, connects and manages more than 100 million smart devices and 200 gigawatts of energy assets globally, while its growing ecosystem of more than 360 customers and partners spans 10 industries and includes Accenture, Amazon Web Services, GovTech Singapore, Keppel Corporation, Microsoft, Nissan, PTT, Sonnen, Solarvest and Total. The company has close to 700 employees and 12 offices across China, France, Japan, Germany, Norway, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States, with headquarters in Singapore.

For more information: https://envision-digital.com/
As regards the encroachment of assigned lands by Jamuna Hatcheries owned by Rajendar's kin, the inquiry teams issued notices to 75 farmers in Masaipet to come forward and give evidence. (Photo: Facebook@Eatala Rajendar)

Hyderabad: The probe by Vigilance & Enforcement (V&E) and Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) into the alleged encroachment of assigned and endowments lands in Masaipet and Devaryamjal by former health minister Etala Rajendar and his family members has been completed.

Officials are expected to submit their inquiry report to the state government by Saturday.

With this, all eyes are on the state government again over its next moves against Rajendar. The probe reports found several irregularities in the purchase and registration of these prohibited lands, it is learnt.

Multiple teams from the two agencies conducted inquiries in Achampet and Hakimpet villages in Masaipet mandal of Medak district and in

Devaryamjal since May first week.

As regards the encroachment of assigned lands by Jamuna Hatcheries owned by Rajendar's kin, the inquiry teams issued notices to 75 farmers in Masaipet to come forward and give evidence. Of them, 61 farmers came in and the remaining 14 farmers submitted petitions seeking a re-survey of their land.

Officials recorded the statements of farmers who complained that Rajendar forced them to sell their assigned lands and took possession of these. They complained that he took these lands for cheap rates and made only part payments.

For the Devaryamjal lands, the inquiry teams visited the Telangana Archives and Research Institute, Tarnaka, to obtain land records of Nizam's era to ascertain how the ownership of these temple lands changed over the years.

Since these records were in Urdu, officials engaged senior Urdu teachers to translate these into English.

Inquiries reportedly found that 160 illegal constructions, which include godowns and guest houses have come up on Devaryamjal temple

lands, mostly owned by Etala's family members and his alleged benamis.

It was found that seven godowns in survey no 735 were constructed in the name of Rajendar's wife Jamuna.

This apart, godowns over an extent of 1.25 lakh sq. ft spread over 12 acres in survey no 57 were constructed allegedly by his benamis.

The CM had ordered the first probe against Rajendar on April 30 after some farmers from Medak district complained that the former minister had grabbed their assigned lands for Jamuna Hatcheries owned by Rajendars close relatives.

The Medak collectors report submitted to the government stated that Rajendars family had possessed 66 acres illegally. The former ministers kin challenged this in the High Court, which however dismissed the report and directed the government not to initiate any action against Rajendar till further orders.

On May 2, the CM ordered another probe by a committee comprising four IAS officials into alleged encroachment of endowment lands in Devaryamjal. Even that inquiry was questioned by the High Court while hearing a petition which sought a halt to the inquiry.

On May 23, the CM ordered a third probe against Rajendar following a complaint from Pitla Mahesh Mudiraj, a resident of Ravalkol village in Medchal mandal that the former minister's son Nitin Reddy had grabbed his land. This inquiry is still on.


Pratteln, Switzerland, May 27, 2021 - Santhera Pharmaceuticals (SIX: SANN) announces the invitation to its Annual General Meeting (AGM), which will be held on June 22, 2021, at 10:30 hrsat the domicile of the Company.

Invitation and agenda items for the AGM

The invitation and agenda items for the Annual General Meeting can be viewed on Santhera's website at https://www.santhera.com/investors-and-media/investor-toolbox/share-bondholder-meetings.

Selected agenda items:

S hare capital increases

As previously announced, the Board of Directors (BoD) proposes various capital increases to Santhera's shareholders at the forthcoming AGM. These should give the Company sufficient flexibility to raise additional capital to fund ongoing development activities, increase pre-commercialization activities and expand the organization in view of a US market launch of vamorolone in late 2022, subject to positive results of the pivotal VISION-DMD study. Specifically, the BoD proposes:

Ordinary capital increase by CHF 11,236,489 by issuing 11,236,489 fully paid-in registered shares with a par value of CHF 1 each.

Increase of authorized capital by CHF 10,232,928 and its extension until June 21, 2023.

Increase of conditional capital for financings by CHF 649,285.

Increase of conditional capital for employee participation from CHF 2,537,052 by CHF 3,000,000 to CHF 5,537,052.



The figures above do not reflect any share issuances from authorized or conditional capital that have occurred or may occur before the AGM.

If the ordinary capital increase can be fully consummated within three months from the date of the AGM, then in a second step, both the authorized capital and the conditional capital for financing would be increased again by CHF 5,618,244 each.

Elections

The BoD proposes the re-election of Elmar Schnee, Philipp Gutzwiller, Thomas Meier and Patrick Vink as members of the BoD until the end of the ordinary AGM 2022. Elmar Schnee is proposed for re-election as Chairman of the BoD.

Martin Gertsch, member of Santhera's Board of Directors since 2006, thereof as Chairman until 2017 and Vice-Chairman for the two subsequent years, will not stand for re-election. The BoD and Executive Committee sincerely thank Martin for his great commitment and valuable contributions and wish him only the best for the future.

Additional motions submitted to the General Meeting include the following:

Approval of the annual financial statements and the consolidated financial statements 2020

Allocation of the annual result and reserves

Consultative vote on the Compensation Report 2020

Discharge of the members of the Board of Directors and the Executive Board for the 2020 financial year

Re-election of the members of the Compensation Committee

Approval of the compensation of the members of the Board of Directors

Approval of the compensation of the members of the Executive Board

Re-election of the auditors

Re-election of the independent proxy





COVID-19

Due to the extraordinary circumstances and in accordance with the applicable Covid-19 legislation, shareholders may exercise their rights at the AGM exclusively via the independent proxy. There is no possibility to attend the AGM in person.

About Santhera

Santhera Pharmaceuticals.

Raxone is a trademark of Santhera Pharmaceuticals.

For further information please contact:

public-relations@santhera.comor

Eva Kalias, Head External Communications

Phone: +41 79 875 27 80

eva.kalias@santhera.com

Disclaimer / 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.

# # #

Attachment
EMPATHY global multi-center Phase 2 - 3 study, recruiting patients with COVID-19 infection, aiming to prevent worsening symptoms and hospitalization





The study plans to enroll 2100 patients, with 400 patients to be enrolled into Phase 2, followed by 1700 patients in Phase 3





Novartis has been granted an option from Molecular Partners to in-license global rights of ensovibep and MP0423 - DARPin antiviral therapeutic candidates that are undergoing testing to target SARS-CoV-2 spike protein





antiviral therapeutic candidates that are undergoing testing to target SARS-CoV-2 spike protein DARPin therapeutics well suited for a pandemic setting due to multi-specific target binding, long half-life for sustained activity and highly scalable production, compared to monoclonal antibodies





Basel, May 27, 2021 - Novartis and Molecular Partners announced today the start of the clinical trial EMPATHY, a Phase 2 and 3 study, to explore the use of its novel DARPin therapeutic candidate ensovibep (MP0420) for the treatment of COVID-19. Novartis will conduct the clinical trial program for ensovibep, with Molecular Partners as sponsor of the studies. In March 2021, Molecular Partners reported positive initial Phase 1 results in healthy volunteers.

The EMPATHY clinical trial program is investigating the safety and efficacy of ensovibep in patients with COVID-19, who are in the early stages of infection, to prevent worsening symptoms and hospitalization. The study will enroll 400 patients in Phase 2 to identify a dose with optimal safety and activity, with initial results anticipated in August 2021. At that point Phase 3 will move ahead with an additional 1,700 patients with results anticipated in H1 2022. If the initial EMPATHY trial results are convincing, this would pave the way for Novartis to seek expedited approval via the FDA's Emergency Use Authorization (EUA).

Those eligible for the EMPATHY trial are adults, over the age of 18, with a positive SARS-CoV-2 antigen test and who are experiencing at least two pre-determined mild/moderate symptoms of COVID-19 within 7 days of their diagnosis.

"Novartis remains unwavering in our efforts to help combat COVID-19, including our support to deliver treatment options for patients around the globe," said Dr. Lutz Hegemann, Group Head, Corporate Affairs and Global Health, Novartis. "Today, with Molecular Partners, we're announcing an important next step in the development of ensovibep, which holds promise to respond to breakthrough disease and new variants in the future. We are hopeful the results of this clinical trial program will provide a reliable treatment option for patients with COVID-19."

Novartis believes a multi-solution strategy is needed to overcome COVID-19, one that utilizes a range of diagnostic and therapeutic options, depending on the needs of individual patients. Every country should have access to effective medicines to treat COVID-19 and despite availability of vaccinations, there continues to be disease transmission and there is likely to continue to be breakthrough disease.

"By virtue of its tri-specific design, ensovibep was built to resist viral mutations and indeed shows potent inhibition of all variants of concern to date, with the potential to maintain activity also for future variants. This type of broad spectrum activity is essential for any treatment of relevance for patients with COVID-19," said Patrick Amstutz, Chief Executive Officer, Molecular Partners. "Reaching this important clinical milestone is not only a key step to combat this virus, but also validating our DARPin approach to generate multispecific antiviral therapies in the fight against global pandemics."

Initial findings from the Phase 1 trial of ensovibep showed it to be safe and well tolerated with no significant adverse events. Predictable exposure was seen post-administration, confirming the expected half-life of two to three weeks. These data confirmed the systemic administration of a multi-specific DARPin? antiviral therapy to be safe and well tolerated and support plans for additional clinical work in patients diagnosed with COVID-19, as part of the EMPATHY trial. The preclinical work for MP0423 is still ongoing and is being led by Molecular Partners.

Sustained binding against new variants of Covid-19

Molecular Partners, in collaboration with academic and government partners, has conducted in vitro experiments using pseudovirion models of SARS-CoV-2 to analyze for infectivity in the presence of ensovibep. These models represent new variants first identified in UK (B1.1.7), South Africa (B.1.351), Brazil (P.1), California (B.1.429), New York (B.1.526), emerging variants R.1 and A.23.1, the individual key mutations of the variants identified in India, B.1.617 and B.1.618, and other key spike mutations identified to date. The results suggest ensovibep continues to retain full potency against the new viral variants of SARS-CoV-2, and could have the potential for sustained binding to additional COVID-19 variants, as they may appear in the future.

Ensovibep enrollment in ACTIV-3 trial

Molecular Partners and Novartis also recently announced the inclusion of ensovibep in the NIH-Sponsored ACTIV-3 Trial (National Institute of Health's (NIH) Accelerating COVID-19 Therapeutic Interventions and Vaccines (ACTIV) program) that aims to prioritize and push forward development of the most promising COVID-19 therapies. ACTIV-3 is a global Phase 3 trial that will investigate the safety and efficacy of ensovibep in adults hospitalized with COVID-19, with an aim to enroll up to 1,000 patients. The first patient dose is expected to be administered in June 2021, with an interim analysis after 300 patients with mild-to-moderate disease. These patients will receive either ensovibep or a placebo. Trial participants will also receive an existing standard of care for COVID-19, including the FDA-approved antiviral remdesivir. If the treatment has a positive risk-benefit profile, the study will enroll an additional 700 patients for further testing. Ensovibep is the first non-antibody therapy assessed in ACTIV-3, supporting a different approach for COVID-19 treatment.

The collaboration with Molecular Partners

Novartis is proud to be collaborating with Molecular Partners to develop two DARPin therapies designed for potential use against COVID-19, ensovibep and MP0423, with an option to in-license global rights from Molecular Partners and development responsibilities to both therapies. Novartis will also be responsible for manufacturing, distribution and commercialization of both therapies.

The development program will be led by Molecular Partners until Phase 1 is complete and will be handed over to Novartis to conduct the pivotal clinical trial EMPATHY, with Phase 2 and 3 trials, with Molecular Partners as sponsor of these trials. Molecular Partners will perform all remaining preclinical work for MP0423.

Novartis response to the COVID-19 pandemic

Novartis is making a number of contributions to the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and supporting the stability of global health systems. The company recently announced initial agreements to provide manufacturing capacity for a COVID-19 vaccination for BioNtech at its site in Stein, Switzerland and for CureVac in Kundl, Austria. In addition, Novartis has signed an initial agreement to reserve capacity and implement the technology transfer for the production of the active pharmaceutical ingredient for Roche's Actemra/RoActemra. Novartis is committed to donating US $40 million to help communities affected by the pandemic around the world.

In addition, Novartis is active in several key cross-industry research initiatives, the COVID-19 Therapeutics Accelerator, coordinated by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Wellcome, and Mastercard as well as a COVID-19 directed partnership supported by the Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI). Novartis has also announced this collaboration with Molecular Partners to develop two DARPin therapies designed for potential use against COVID-19. The company is separately supporting COVID-19-related clinical investigations of several Novartis medicines. In our labs, we have started a collaborative, longer-term drug discovery effort to develop the first oral medicines for COVID-19 and other coronaviruses. To sustain access, the Novartis generics and biosimilars division Sandoz became the first company to commit to keeping stable prices for a basket of essential medicines that may help in the treatment of COVID-19 and entered into a partnership with US-based Civica Rx to support stable supply of essential generic hospital medicines. We are making 15 drugs that treat key symptoms of COVID-19 available to low-and lower-middle income countries at zero profit until a vaccine or curative treatment is available. Furthermore, Novartis Gene Therapies entered into a manufacturing agreement with Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Massachusetts General Hospital to produce its novel genetic COVID-19 vaccine candidate called AAVCOVID8. More information about the Novartis response to COVID-19 is available at www.novartis.com/COVID-19 (https://www.novartis.com/COVID-19).

Disclaimer

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by words such as "potential," "can," "will," "plan," "may," "could," "would," "expect," "anticipate," "seek," "look forward," "believe," "committed," "investigational," "pipeline," "launch," or similar terms, or by express or implied discussions regarding potential marketing approvals, new indications or labeling for the investigational or approved products described in this press release, or regarding potential future revenues from such products. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on our current beliefs and expectations regarding future events, and are subject to significant known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. There can be no guarantee that the investigational or approved products described in this press release will be submitted or approved for sale or for any additional indications or labeling in any market, or at any particular time. Nor can there be any guarantee that such products will be commercially successful in the future. In particular, our expectations regarding such products could be affected by, among other things, the uncertainties inherent in research and development, including clinical trial results and additional analysis of existing clinical data; regulatory actions or delays or government regulation generally; global trends toward health care cost containment, including government, payor and general public pricing and reimbursement pressures and requirements for increased pricing transparency; our ability to obtain or maintain proprietary intellectual property protection; the particular prescribing preferences of physicians and patients; general political, economic and business conditions, including the effects of and efforts to mitigate pandemic diseases such as COVID-19; safety, quality, data integrity or manufacturing issues; potential or actual data security and data privacy breaches, or disruptions of our information technology systems, and other risks and factors referred to in Novartis AG's current Form 20-F on file with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Novartis is providing the information in this press release as of this date and does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About Novartis

Novartis is reimagining medicine to improve and extend people's lives. As a leading global medicines company, we use innovative science and digital technologies to create transformative treatments in areas of great medical need. In our quest to find new medicines, we consistently rank among the world's top companies investing in research and development. Novartis products reach nearly 800 million people globally and we are finding innovative ways to expand access to our latest treatments. About 110,000 people of more than 140 nationalities work at Novartis around the world. Find out more at https://www.novartis.com (https://www.novartis.com).

Novartis is on Twitter. Sign up to follow @Novartis at https://twitter.com/novartisnews (https://twitter.com/novartisnews)

For Novartis multimedia content, please visit https://www.novartis.com/news/media-library (https://www.novartis.com/news/media-library)

For questions about the site or required registration, please contact media.relations@novartis.com (mailto:media.relations@novartis.com)

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Novartis Media Relations

E-mail: media.relations@novartis.com (mailto:media.relations@novartis.com)

Michael Meo

US External Engagement, Novartis

+1 862 274 5414

michael.meo@novartis.com (mailto:michael.meo@novartis.com)







Julie Masow

Novartis US External Communications

+1 862 579 8456

julie.masow@novartis.com (mailto:julie.masow@novartis.com) Arzum Ustun

Communications, Novartis Corporate Affairs and Global Health

+41 79 108 5314

arzum.ustun@novartis.com (mailto:arzum.ustun@novartis.com)





Novartis Investor Relations

Central investor relations line: +41 61 324 7944

E-mail: investor.relations@novartis.com (mailto:investor.relations@novartis.com)
HAMILTON, Bermuda, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Seadrill Limited ("Seadrill" or the "Company") (OSE:SDRL, OTCPK:SDRLF), is pleased to announce the appointment of Svein Harald ygard as a new board director. Mr ygard brings significant financial and sector expertise to the Company, with decades of international experience in the government, financial and energy sectors. He worked within the Norwegian Ministry of Finance and various other governmental agencies, including as State Secretary of Finance, where he led the work on the Norwegian Tax Reform 1992, the Norwegian Government's Long-Term Program and the report on the economic effects of a possible EU membership. In 1995, he joined global consultancy McKinsey in Norway, a business he ran from 2005 to 2007. In 2009, he was Interim Governor of the Central Bank of Iceland, before returning to McKinsey. He served as Global Knowledge Leader Oil & Gas from 2010 to 2014 and led the firm's oil and gas work in South America from 2013 to 2016.

Taking his expertise freelance in 2016, Mr. ygard has since held board positions for a range of international firms operating in the oil and gas sector and from 2017 to early 2021 worked for Sparebank 1 Markets. An established author and economist, in 2019 Mr. ygard published a book entitled "In the Combat Zone of Finance", which focused on the 2008 financial crisis and its macroeconomic impact. Originally published in Norwegian and Icelandic, the book has also been translated into English and Chinese.

Glen Ole Rdland, Chairman commented: "We are delighted to welcome Svein Harald to Seadrill's board. His expertise in the oil and gas sector, alongside his directorship and board committee experience, complement a board and management dedicated to further developing Seadrill's position as the sector's leading offshore driller."

About Seadrill

Seadrill is a leading offshore drilling contractor utilizing advanced technology to unlock oil and gas resources for clients across harsh and benign locations across the globe. Seadrill's high quality, technologically advanced fleet spans all asset classes allowing its experienced crews to conduct its operations from shallow to ultra-deep-water environments. The company operates 43 rigs, which includes drillships, jack-ups and semi-submersibles.

Seadrill is listed on the Oslo Brs and OTC Pink markets. For more information, visit https://www.seadrill.com/

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release includes forward looking statements. Such statements are generally not historical in nature, and specifically include statements about the Company's plans, strategies, business prospects, changes and trends in its business, the markets in which it operates and its restructuring efforts. These statements are made based upon management's current plans, expectations, assumptions and beliefs concerning future events impacting the Company and therefore involve a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this news release. Consequently, no forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. When considering these forward-looking statements, you should keep in mind the risks described from time to time in the Company's regulatory filings and periodical reporting. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict all of these factors. Further, the Company cannot assess the impact of each such factor on its business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to be materially different from those contained in any forward-looking statement.

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

CONTACT:

seadrill@hawthornadvisors.com

020 3745 4960

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PERTH, AUSTRALIA / ACCESSWIRE / May 27, 2021 / Centamin plc (LSE:CEY)(TSX:CEE) ("Centamin" or "the Company" or "Group", including its subsidiaries) Centamin is pleased to announce the results of the Company's review of its West African exploration portfolio, following which the Board has approved the commencement of a pre-feasibility study ("PFS") at Doropo, a further exploration programme at ABC and a review of the third-party development options at Batie West.

The review, which commenced in H2 2020, was designed to evaluate the potential development prospects of the portfolio, to rank each project and to define the pathway to realising value. The review was led by the Company's Projects team, with the support of industry-leading consultants, including Lycopodium, Cube Consulting, Knight Piesold and ECG Engineering.

HIGHLIGHTS

The Doropo Project shows strong development potential with the completion of a positive preliminary economic assessment ("PEA"):

US$234 million post-tax net present value ("NPV5%") with a 21% internal rate of return ("IRR") at US$1,450/oz gold price

US$487 million NPV5% with a 33% IRR at consensus gold price per ounce of US$1,829/oz ("consensus")

Total development capital expenditure ("CAPEX") of US$275 million, including a 15% contingency

13 year life of mine ("LOM") based on the updated mineral resource estimate of 0.16 million ounces (Measured and Indicated) and 5.21 million ounces (Inferred) of gold, with potential to further increase gold resources across the permits

Average annual gold production of 207,800 ounces for the first five years, averaging 150,956 ounces over the LOM, for a total of 2.0 million ounces produced at an average AISC of US$904/oz

Board has approved US$14 million spend to advance the project to PFS stage by mid-2022.

The ABC Project continues to deliver strong priority greenfield target generation along the 60km Lolosso Gold Corridor ("LGC") and the Board has approved a further US$3 million exploration programme for the Kona and FarakoNafana permits for the period to June 2022.

The PEA for the Batie West Project also delivers positive results:

US$63 million NPV5% with an 11% IRR at US$1,450/oz gold price

US$282 million NPV5% and a 26% IRR at consensus gold price

Total development CAPEX of US$265 million, including a 15% contingency

8.5 year LOM based on the updated mineral resource estimate of 2.13 million ounces (Measured and Indicated) and 0.1 million ounces (Inferred) of gold

Average annual gold production averaging 139,994 ounces over the LOM, for a total production of 1.2 million ounces of gold at an average AISC of US$998/oz

Board has approved the assessment of third-party development options as the project does not currently meet Centamin's investment criteria.

MARTIN HORGAN, CEO commented: "Building a strong active growth pipeline is central to our strategy, while maintaining our capital allocation discipline. Today's announcement of a positive preliminary economic study at Doropo and the exploration potential at the earlier stage ABC, demonstrate the quality and potential of our portfolio.

The Batie West Project has potential to deliver a profitable mine, but not one that would currently meet our strict investment criteria. We are now initiating a review of development options for this asset.

The Doropo Project is very exciting and is our priority growth target outside of Egypt, showing excellent potential to become Centamin's second mine. Our highly experienced team has proven expertise at delivering successful gold projects in West Africa and will now commence the PFS, the results of which we look forward to announcing in mid-2022."

WEST AFRICA PROJECT PIPELINE BY RANK

DOROPO

PROJECT ABC

PROJECT BATIE WEST

PROJECT Location Cote d'Ivoire Cote d'Ivoire Burkina Faso Priority Rank 1 2 3 Stage PEA Greenfield Exploration PEA Resources Measured & Indicated 0.16Moz 0.65Moz 2.13Moz Inferred 5.21Moz 0.5Moz 0.1Moz Life of Mine ("LOM") 13 years n/a 8.5 years Production & Costs Years 1-5 (average) Production (koz) 208 n/a 148 AISC (US$/oz) 769 n/a 974 LOM (average) Production (koz) 151 n/a 140 AISC (US$/oz) 904 n/a 998 Capital expenditure (US$m) 275 n/a 265 Economics US$1,450/oz gold price Post-tax NPV5% (US$m) 234 n/a 63 IRR (%) 21 n/a 11 Consensus gold price (US$1829/oz) Post-tax NPV5% (US$m) 487 n/a 282 IRR (%) 33 n/a 26 Next Steps Complete PFS

by mid-2022 MRE update

by mid-2022 Assessing strategic opportunities



Note. The PEA(s) are preliminary in nature and include the use of Inferred mineral resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorised as mineral reserves and, as such, there is no certainty that the studies will be realised. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please visit the website www.centamin.com or contact:

Centamin plc

Alexandra Barter-Carse,

Corporate Communications

+44 (0) 7700 713 738

investors@centamin.je Buchanan

Bobby Morse / Kelsey Traynor

+ 44 (0) 20 7466 5000

centamin@buchanan.uk.com

BACKGROUND

DOROPO PROJECT (COTE D'IVOIRE)

The Doropo Project ("Doropo") consists of seven exploration permits, covering an area of approximately 2,300km2. Doropo is in the northeast of Cote d'Ivoire, between the Comoe National Park and the international border with Burkina Faso, and approximately 650km north of Abidjan.

Geologically, Doropo lies entirely within the Tonalite-Trondhjemite-Granodiorite domain, bounded on the eastern side by the Boromo-Batie greenstone belt, in Burkina Faso, and by the Tehini-Hounde greenstone belt on the west.

Currently 67% of the defined mineral resource deposits sit within a 10km radius, with the Vako and Kilosegui deposits 15km and 30km, respectively, to the southwest. Mineralisation is associated with discrete structures of intense silica-sericite alteration, focused within and along the margins of narrow (between 5-10 metres wide, expanding to 20-25 metres in areas) dextral shear zones.

During 2020 the Company's experienced exploration team has completed approximately 74,000 metres of drilling which supported year-on-year total resource growth at Doropo. The updated Mineral Resource estimate, as prepared by Cube Consulting, is 2.34 million tonnes at 2.13g/t gold containing 0.16 million ounces of gold Indicated resources and 142.9 million tonnes at 1.13g/t containing 5.21 million ounces of gold Inferred resources ("MRE") representing a 50% increase in total mineral resources. Although the revised approach has led to a reclassification of some material previously included as Measured and Indicated, 70,000 metres of drilling will be completed as part of the PFS work programme to bring the resources into the M&I categories.

Positive Preliminary Economic Assessment

Doropo shows good development potential with the positive PEA demonstrating a 13-year life of mine with the potential to produce 208koz per annum over the first five years of production for an initial development capital cost of US$275 million including a 15% of contingency. Sustaining capital costs are forecast to be US$90 million, including a closure provision of US$18 million. The project supports a post-tax NPV5% of US$234 million and IRR of 21% at a long-term gold price of US$1,450/oz.

The Doropo PEA is based on the updated MRE but work does not include Tchouahinan, Nare, Hinda and Vako deposits. The opportunity to include these deposits might be re-evaluated at later assessment phases.

The PEA assumes contractor open pit mining to access multiple pits, with oxide ore recovered by conventional free milling, carbon in leach ("CIL") processing flowsheet and an additional sulphide floatation and ultra-fine grind concentrate for the sulphide ore. A processing rate of 4.9 million tonnes per annum is anticipated for the free milling material dropping to 4.4 million tonnes per annum in the fresh material. Based on metallurgical test work, overall recoveries are forecast to average 90% in the free milling material and fresh ores over the life of mine.

A total of 2.0 million ounces are forecast to be recovered over the life of mine at an average cash cost of US$796/oz and an AISC of US$904/oz.

Power is anticipated to be generated through a 27MW liquefied natural gas ("LNG") power station which will be built and operated by an independent power provider. A lined tailings storage facility has been assumed and designed to an ANCOLD specification, with a cyanide destruction circuit for tailings management.

Next Steps

The PEA confirms that Doropo has robust economics and excellent potential to become a profitable producing mine suitable for Centamin's investment criteria and strategy. The Board has approved US$14 million of spend over the next twelve months to progress to a PFS. This includes a 70,000-metre infill drilling programme, geotechnical drilling programme, open pit optimisation, further metallurgical testing, and environmental and social screening and scoping assessments.

The Company expects to announce the PFS in mid-2022.

ABC PROJECT (COTE D'IVOIRE)

The ABC Project ("ABC") is in northwest Cote d'Ivoire, approximately 550km northwest of Abidjan and 460km west of Centamin's Doropo project.

ABC comprises two exploration permits, Kona and FarakoNafana, which cover 750km2 of prospective geology straddling the Sassandra Shear Zone along the contact zone between the Birimian terrane to the east and the Archaean craton to the west. Exploration by the Company to date has delineated a north to south trending gold-mineralised corridor - the Lolosso Gold Corridor ("LGC") - over a 30km strike length within the Kona permit. The Company has made applications for a further five exploration permits covering potential strike extensions to this mineralised belt.

ABC is at an early stage of exploration, however, exploration drilling in 2019-20 has delineated gold mineralisation over a 10km strike length at the Kona Central and Kona South prospects. In addition, geochemical anomalies indicate potential gold mineralisation at the Kona North prospect and at the FarakoNafana permit - although these areas have not yet been drill-tested.

Geology

The LGC is typically 300m to 800m wide and the underlying geology comprises a greenschist to lower amphibolite facies Birimian age volcano-sedimentary package thrusted between an earlier granitoid block of Archaean age to the west and Birimian paragneiss on the east. The eastern footwall contact is a major structural and metamorphic feature, and it controls the regional setting of the gold mineralisation along the corridor. The paragneiss is interpreted to be the stratigraphic continuity of the detrital sediments but has a higher metamorphic grade.

Surface geochemistry maps the core of the LGC along a 23km strike length, which runs north to south through the Kona permit. The two main prospects, identified by the initial mapping and rock chip sampling, were subdued silicified ledges in the topography. These anomalous ridges developed into the Kona South and Kona Central Prospects. On a regional scale, mapping and airborne magnetic and radiometric data identifies the LGC as a 60km structural feature.

Reverse Circulation ("RC") and Core drilling (50 metre drill hole spacing) at the Kona South and Kona Central prospects has delineated significant widths of mineralisation at the contact of a calc-silicate and psammite unit, with gold mineralisation confined to the latter more brittle rock type.

Next Steps

A US$3 million exploration budget for the period to June 2022 has been approved for further exploration of the ABC permits. Soil geochemical surveys are currently underway covering both permit areas, which will likely generate further drill targets within the LGC. In addition, closer spaced drilling (25 x 50 metre) will be undertaken to better define the continuity of gold mineralisation at Kona South and Kona Central prospects and exploration drilling is also planned for the Kona North prospect and at FarakoNafana. Further metallurgical work, as well as gold deportment and mineralogical studies, will also be carried out on the Kona South and Kona Central mineralisation.

BATIE WEST PROJECT (BURKINA FASO)

The Batie West Project ("Batie West") consists of one exploitation license valid until November 2021 and four exploration permits, covering an area of approximately 380km2. Batie West is in the southwest of Burkina Faso, within the Southern Noumbiel Province, bordering Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire, and is approximately 290km southwest of the Burkinabe capital of Ouagadougou.

Batie West is 10km northeast of the Doropo main mineral resource area. Geologically, Batie is hosted along the south-western margin of the Birimian Boromo greenstone belt, on the Batie West Shear Zone ("BWSZ"). The BWSZ is a major crustal scale shear zone that traverses the western margin of the greenstone belt.

Batie West has three main orebodies: Konkera Main, Konkera North and Kouglaga. The Konkera deposits are a shear zone hosted style quartz-vein gold deposit. Similar deposits are found in the late Proterozoic Birimian terranes of West Africa. Gold mineralisation is typically associated with quartz veins with minor amounts of carbonate, tourmaline, sulphides and native gold.

Aligned with our disciplined capital allocation framework, there has been no drilling at Batie West since 2018. Through reassessment of existing data sets and independent reports, the Company has built upon work done previously, to iteratively assess the viability of the project.

Positive PEA

Batie West is a viable project with an 8.5-year life of mine producing on average 140koz per annum for an initial development capital cost of US$265 million, including 15% of contingency. The project forecasts a post-tax NPV5% of US$63 million using long term gold price of US$1,450/oz gold price.

The Batie West PEA is based only on the mineral resource estimate of 56.7 million tonnes at 1.2g/t containing 2.13 million ounces of gold Measured and Indicated resources, and 2.8 million tonnes at 1.1g/t containing 0.1 million ounces of gold Inferred resources. This study does not include Konkera Main East, which is relatively small and was found to be uneconomic to process and not included in the current mine planning.

The study utilised an open pit, contractor mining operation with optimisation studies completed for Konkera Main, Konkera North and Kouglaga to accommodate a staged development for each deposit, allowing for efficient resource extraction at acceptable stripping ratios. Extensive previous test work alongside a more recent review by Lycopodium resulted in processing via conventional free milling and CIL processing and an additional sulphide floatation and ultra-fine grind concentrate grind for the fresh ore. Like Doropo, a process rate of 4.9 million tonnes per annum is anticipated for the free milling material dropping to 4.4 million tonnes per annum in the fresh material. Based on metallurgical test work, recoveries are forecast to be 81%, including the free milling material and fresh ores.

A total of 1.2 million ounces of gold are forecast to be recovered over the life of mine at average cash costs of US$859/oz and AISC of US$998/oz.

Power is anticipated to be generated through a 27MW LNG power station which will be built and operated by an independent power provider. A lined tailings storage facility has been assumed and designed to ANCOLD specification, with a cyanide destruction circuit for tailings management.

Next Steps

The study confirms that Batie West has viable economics and strong potential to become a profitable producing mine but ranked against the Company's project pipeline and internal hurdles for capital allocation, is non-core for Centamin and the Company will strategically assess third party opportunities to develop or realise the project's value.

MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATES

The mineral resource data presented in the tables included in this document comprise a summary extract for the mineral resource reports for the Group's properties in West Africa and do not include the mineral resources for the Company's flagship asset, Sukari Gold Mine. For comparative purposes, data for 2020 has been included where possible. Numbers have been rounded and therefore there may be small differences in the totals. Varying cut-off grades have been clearly stated.

2021 2020 Category Tonnage Grade Gold Content (Moz) Tonnage Grade Gold Content (Moz) (Mt) (g/t) (Mt) (g/t) DOROPO PROJECT Measured - - - 5.2 1.52 0.26 0.5g/t cut-off grade Indicated 2.34 2.13 0.16 56.1 1.21 2.18 M+I 2.34 2.13 0.16 61.3 1.22 2.44 Inferred 142.9 1.13 5.21 30.1 1.1 1.04 ABC PROSPECT Measured - - - - - - 0.5g/t cut-off grade Indicated 20 1.03 0.65 20 1.03 0.65 M+I 20 1.03 0.65 20 1.03 0.65 Inferred 16 0.9 0.5 16 0.9 0.5 BATIE WEST PROJECT Measured - - - - - - 0.5g/t cut-off grade Indicated 56.7 1.17 2.13 34 1.70 1.92 M+I 56.7 1.17 2.13 34 1.70 1.92 Inferred 2.8 1.1 0.1 25 1.7 1.3

RESOURCE NOTES

Doropo Project

The estimation method is Ordinary Kriging using dynamic anisotropy and Local Uniform Conditioning

Classifications of Indicated and Inferred has been based primarily on the estimation quality parameters, including the quality of the domain variograms, the conditional bias slope and average distance to informing data

The reported estimates are limited to blocks with a maximum depth of 250 metres below surface and within 80 metres of drill hole data

All available data was used as at 31 October 2020

A cut-off grade of 0.5 g/t gold is used for reporting as it is believed that the majority of the reported resources can be mined at that grade.

ABC Project

The estimation method is Multiple Indicator Kriging using GS3 software

Indicated resources occur in areas drilled at approximately 50 x 50 metre spacing and Inferred resources exist in areas of broader spaced drilling

The reported estimates are limited to blocks with a maximum depth of 250 metres below surface and within 100 metres of drill hole data

All available ABC data was used as of 10 December 2018

A cut-off grade of 0.5 g/t gold is used for reporting as it is believed that the majority of the reported resources can be mined at that grade.

The Doropo and ABC resource data sets include Reverse Circulation and Diamond drill data with gold estimates based on 50-gram Fire Assay analysis completed at Bureau Veritas Mineral Laboratories, Abidjan.

Batie West Project

The open pit Mineral Resources are estimates of recoverable tonnes and grade using Multiple Indicator Kriging with block support correction produced using GS3 software

Indicated resources occur in areas drilled at approximately 25 x 50 metre spacing and Inferred resources exist in areas of broader spaced drilling

The reported open pit Mineral Resource estimate is restricted to a US$1,900/oz pit shell and reported using a 0.5 g/t gold cut-off grade. The reported Mineral Resource extends over a strike length of approximately 5.2km, a width of 480 metres and extends to a depth of 310 metres

All available Reverse Circulation and Diamond drilling samples were used as at 1 January 2020. The resource data set comprised 106,738 two-metre down hole composite samples.

QUALIFIED PERSONS

Information of a scientific or technical nature in this document, including but not limited to the Mineral Reserve and Mineral Resource estimates, was prepared by and under the supervision of the Group Qualified Persons, Howard Bills, Group Exploration Manager, and Craig Barker, Group Mineral Resource Manager, and independent Qualified Person(s) as below:

Doropo Project: Richard Adams of Cube Consulting Pty Ltd

ABC Project: Rupert Osborn of H&S Consultants Pty Ltd

A "Qualified Person" is as defined by the National Instrument 43-101 of the Canadian Securities Administrators. The named Qualified Person(s) have verified the data disclosed, including sampling, analytical, and test data underlying the information or opinions contained in this announcement in accordance with standards appropriate to their qualifications. Each Qualified Person consents to the inclusion of the information in this document in the form and context in which it appears.

Investors should be aware that the figures stated are estimates and no assurances can be given that the stated quantities of metal will be produced.

Mineral Resource Estimates contained in this document are based on available data as at:

Doropo Project 31 October 2020

ABC Project 10 December 2018

Batie West Project 1 January 2020

ENDNOTES

Guidance

The Company actively monitors the developments of the COVID-19 pandemic and timelines may be impacted if the workforce (including contractors), supply chain or scheduled activities are disrupted.

Consensus gold price

Source: BMO Capital Markets. Five-year consensus gold price of US$1,829/oz, as at 31 March 2021.

Financials

Financial data points included within this report are unaudited.

The PEA(s) are preliminary in nature and include the use of Inferred mineral resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorised as mineral reserves and, as such, there is no certainty that the studies will be realised. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

Non-GAAP measures

This statement includes certain financial performance measures which are not GAAP measures as defined under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). These include Cash costs of production and AISC. Management believes these measures provide valuable additional information for users. Definitions and explanation of the measures used are detailed in the Company's 2020 Annual Report https://www.centamin.com/investors/results-reports/.

Forward-Looking Statements

This announcement (including information incorporated by reference) contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" under applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"), including statements with respect to future financial or operating performance. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "believes", "expects", "expected", "budgeted", "forecasts" and "anticipates" and include statements concerning targets for future and further grown, timing to complete the PFS, development potential, expected NPV5% and CAPEX, potential increases in resources and other future plans or expectations. Although Centamin believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, Centamin can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are prospective in nature and are not based on historical facts, but rather on current expectations and projections of the management of Centamin about future events and are therefore subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. In addition, there are a number of factors that could cause actual results, performance, achievements or developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements; the risks and uncertainties associated with the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 or other pandemic, general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; the results of exploration activities and feasibility studies; assumptions in economic evaluations which prove to be inaccurate; currency fluctuations; changes in project parameters; future prices of gold and other metals; possible variations of ore grade or recovery rates; accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry; climatic conditions; political instability; decisions and regulatory changes enacted by governmental authorities; delays in obtaining approvals or financing or completing development or construction activities; and discovery of archaeological ruins. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information or statements, particularly in light of the current economic climate and the significant volatility, uncertainty and disruption caused by the outbreak of COVID-19. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this announcement and the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

LEI: 213800PDI9G7OUKLPV84

Company No: 109180

This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

SOURCE: Centamin PLC

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/649378/Centamin-PLC-Announces-West-African-Portfolio-Confirms-Growth-Potential


Groupe Gorge, through its subsidiary Prodways Group, has been selected by the French government as one of the winners of the " Stimulus plan for the industrial sector " and has been awarded a 3.3 million grant for its 3D printing division. This support is part of the France Relance program funded by the French government.

The Futur3D project to which these funds will be dedicated, representing 13.1 million of investments by 2023, will enhance the Group's technologies by developing the next generations of products and services. This R&D program aims in particular to develop and improve the printer offer and to implement software functionalities that are increasingly relevant to industrial production.

Thanks to this support, the 3D Printing division is pursuing its ambitious growth plan and strengthening its ability to address industrial applications thanks to its expertise in 3D Printing mass production. The program will also allow the division to consolidate the recovery in profitability expected from 2021 and for the years to come. Groupe Gorge is thus comforting its position as a key player in this sector through its mastery of the entire value chain: the group is one of the few players able to offer turnkey solutions for industrial production with machines, materials, software and production control.



About Groupe Gorge

Groupe Gorge is a high-tech industrial group driven by a strong entrepreneurial culture. The Group is present in 3D printing, drones, engineering and protection systems and employs nearly 1,850 people. The Group generated revenue of 231 million in 2020.



More information on www.groupe-gorge.com

Groupe Gorge is listed on Euronext Paris Compartment B (GOE).





Upcoming events

 18/06/2021 (after market): Shareholders' meeting

 28/07/2021 (after market): Q2 2021 revenue

 16/09/2021 (after market): H1 2021 results

 28/10/2021 (after market): Q3 2021 revenue





Contact :

Investor relations

Hugo Soussan

Tel: +33 (0)1 44 77 94 86

h.soussan@groupe-gorge.com

Anne-Pauline Petureaux

Tel: +33 (0)1 53 67 36 72

apetureaux@actus.fr



Media relations

Manon Clairet

Tel: +33 (0)1 53 67 36 73

mclairet@actus.fr





Disclaimer

Groupe Gorge press releases may contain forward-looking statements regarding Groupe Gorge's targets. These forward-looking statements reflect Groupe Gorge's current expectations. Such forward-looking statements and targets depend on known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those anticipated herein. Some of these risk factors are set forth and detailed in our Universal registration document, available on our website www.groupe-gorge.com. This list of risks, uncertainties and other factors is not limitative. This press release and the information it contains do not constitute an offer to sell or to subscribe, or a solicitation to purchase or subscribe shares or securities in Groupe Gorge or in its listed subsidiaries in any country whatsoever.

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Full and original release in PDF format:https://www.actusnews.com/documents_communiques/ACTUS-0-69408-cp_groupe-gorge_subvention-futur3d_uk.pdf
AECI LIMITED

Incorporated in the Republic of South Africa

(Registration number: 1924/002590/06)

Share code: AFE ISIN: ZAE000000220

Hybrid code: AFEP ISIN: ZAE000000238

Bond company code: AECI

LEI: 3789008641F1D3D90E85

(AECI or the Company)

REPORT ON PROCEEDINGS AT THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

At the 97th annual general meeting (AGM or the meeting) of the shareholders of AECI held on 25 May 2021, all the ordinary and special resolutions proposed at the meeting were approved by the requisite majority of votes, except for the non-binding advisory resolution pertaining to the implementation of the Remuneration Policy, which received less than the required 75% of votes. In this regard, AECI confirms the voting statistics from the AGM as follows:

Votes cast disclosed as a

percentage in relation to the total

number of shares

voted at the meeting Number of

shares voted Shares voted disclosed as a percentage in relation to the total issued share capital(%)* Shares abstained disclosed as a percentage in relation to the total issued share capital (%) * Ordinary shares (Ord)

B ordinary shares (B Ord)

Resolutions For (%) Against (%) Ordinary resolution No. 1: Reappointment of independent auditor 95,19 Ord

100,00 B Ord 4,81 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 346 667 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord Ordinary resolution No. 2.1: Re-election of Non-executive Director - Ms FFT De Buck 100,00 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,00 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 346 667 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord Ordinary resolution No. 2.2: Re-election of Non-executive Director - Mr G Gomwe 97,83 Ord

100,00 B Ord 2,17 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 346 667 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord Ordinary resolution No. 2.3: Re-election of Non-executive Director - Ms PG Sibiya 99,41 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,59 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 346 667 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord Ordinary resolution No. 3: Appointment of Ms AM Roets as a Non-executive Director



Ordinary resolution No. 4: Re-election of Mr MA Dytor as an Executive Director 99,77 Ord

100,00 B Ord



99,06 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,23 Ord

0,00 B Ord



0,94 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 346 667 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord



97 346 667 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord



88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord



0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord Ordinary resolution No. 5.1: Election of Audit Committee member - Ms FFT De Buck 100,00 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,00 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 346 667 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord Ordinary resolution No. 5.2: Election of Audit Committee member - Mr G Gomwe 99,99 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 346 667 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord Ordinary resolution No. 5.3: Election of Audit Committee member - Ms AM Roets 100,00 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,00 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 346 667 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord Ordinary resolution No. 5.4: Election of Audit Committee member - Ms PG Sibiya 99,83 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,17 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 346 667 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord Ordinary resolution No. 6.1: Remuneration Policy 89,30 Ord

100,00 B Ord 10,70 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 347 167 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord Ordinary resolution No. 6.2: Implementation of Remuneration Policy 67,39 Ord

100,00 B Ord 32,61 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 347 167 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord

Special resolution No. 1.1: Directors' fees and remuneration - Board: Chairman 97,27 Ord

100,00 B Ord 2,73 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 347 167 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord Special resolution No. 1.2: Directors' fees - Board: Non-executive Directors 100,00 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,00 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 347 167 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord Special resolution No. 1.3: Directors' fees - Audit Committee: Chairman 100,00 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,00 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 347 167 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord Special resolution No. 1.4: Directors' fees - Audit Committee: members 100,00 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,00 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 347 167 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord Special resolution No. 1.5: Directors' fees - Other Board Committees: Chairman 100,00 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,00 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 347 167 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord Special resolution No. 1.6: Directors' fees - Other Board Committees: members 100,00 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,00 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 347 167 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord Special resolution No. 1.7: Directors' fees - Meeting attendance fee 100,00 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,00 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 347 167 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord Special resolution No. 2: General authority to repurchase shares

99,91 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,09 Ord

0,00% B Ord 97 210 998 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,42 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,13 Ord

0,00 B Ord Special resolution No. 3: Financial assistance to related or inter-related company 100,00 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,00 Ord

0,00 B Ord 97 347 167 Ord

10 117 951 B Ord 88,54 Ord

100,00 B Ord 0,01 Ord

0,00 B Ord

* The issued ordinary share capital is 109 944 384 listed ordinary shares, 10 117 951 unlisted redeemable convertible B ordinary shares and 3 000 000 listed cumulative preference shares.

The special resolutions will, where necessary, be lodged for registration with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission in due course.

Engagement with shareholders

Shareholders are advised that, consequent to the ordinary resolution relating to the non-binding advisory vote on implementation of the Remuneration Policy being voted against by more than 25% of shareholders present in person or represented by proxy at the AGM (dissenting shareholders), the Company invites dissenting shareholders to engage with it as follows:

a telephone conference has been arranged for Friday, 25 June 2021 from 10:00 to 11:00 (SA time)

from 10:00 to 11:00 (SA time) all dissenting shareholders are requested to confirm their participation to the Group Company Secretary by e-mail at wynand.strydom@aeciworld.com by no later than close of business on Friday, 18 June 2021. Dial-in details for the telephone conference will then be provided, and

dissenting shareholders are further invited to forward their concerns/questions on the implementation of the Remuneration Policy to the Group Company Secretary by e-mail at wynand.strydom@aeciworld.com by no later than close of business on Friday, 18 June 2021 .

Woodmead, Sandton

27 May 2021

Equity and Debt Sponsor:Rand Merchant Bank (A division of FirstRand Bank Limited)
Good morning,

Please find below the press release issued today before the opening of the Paris Stock Exchange.

Best regards,

Florence Lievre

Global PR Manager | Group Marketing & Communications

Capgemini Group | Paris

Tel.: +33 1 47 54 50 71

Email : florence.lievre@capgemini.com

_____________________

Presscontact Capgemini

Florence Lievre



Tel.: +33 1 47 54 50 71

E-mail: florence.lievre@capgemini.com Presscontact Orange

Tom Wright

Tel.: +33 6 78 91 35 11

E-mail:tom.wright@orange.com

Capgemini and Orange announce plan to create "Bleu", a company to provide a "Cloud de Confiance"in France

Unprecedented partnership willlead to a new independent cloud platform that aims to meet the French State's"Cloud de Confiance" labelfor enhanced data sovereignty.

Paris, May 27, 2021 -Today, Capgemini and Orange announced their plan to set up a new company named "Bleu" that will intend to provide a "Cloud de Confiance"1 service which willmeet sovereignty requirements of the French State, public administrationsand critical infrastructure companieswith unique privacy, security and resiliency needs as determined by the French State. Bleuwill aim to provideitscustomerswith an independent, trusted cloud platformwitha broad catalog of digital solutions and cutting-edge collaborative tools. The partnership provides a significant step forward in acceleratingFrance'sdigital transformation.

This project will combine the expertise of Capgemini and Orange - two leading French global digital companies - working with Microsoft, to create a French cloud service provider that satisfies the unique needs of a specific set of organizations. Bleu will offer its solutions to Vital Importance Operators (OIVs) and Essential Service Operators (OSEs), the French State, public agencies, hospitals and regional authorities whose sensitive data and workload require a "Cloud de Confiance" platform tailored to their needs. Bleu will offer Microsoft's secure cloud technology including the modern collaboration and productivity solutions of Microsoft 365 and the services available on the Microsoft Azure cloud platform, delivered via an independent environment, to ensure that customers benefit from the widest range of the latest technology innovations.

An unprecedentedFrench hyperscale cloud, fully under French and European jurisdictions

Bleu will be governed by key requirements regarding sensitive data to ensure that the unique needs of its French customers are met. Firstly, these include providing immunity from all extraterritorial legislation and economic independence - Capgemini and Orange will be the majority investors in Bleu. Secondly, these rely on meeting data transferrequirements and ensuring the fullcontrol of cloud-based applications from within an isolated infrastructure that uses data centers located in France. These data centers will therefore be strictly separated from Microsoft's global data center infrastructure, which guarantees operational autonomy. In addition, Bleu will be entirely operated by its own staff in France. Thus, the services that Bleu will provide should be recognized as a "Cloud de Confiance" offer by public authorities, since they meet all the requirements necessary to receive the SecNumCloud label2 by the National Agency for Information Systems Security (ANSSI), as well as legal requirements needed to confirm its status as a "Cloud de Confiance" operator. In addition, Bleu could later integrate complementary partners in the future.

Bleu will also ultimately join the Gaia-X initiative, of which Orange and Capgemini are members, in order to support the emergence of sovereign solutions on a European level and contribute to the development of this ecosystem.

Aiman Ezzat, CEO of Capgemini, said: "As a strategic partner to our clients, Capgemini is focused on building the services they need, based on leading technologies and the highest standards. The creation of a "Cloud de Confiance" for France will provide French State and critical infrastructure organizations with the many benefits of flexible cloud services on a secure platform. Now is the right moment to launch this project which benefits fromstrong political will and very advanced technologies.We are excited to be partnering with Orange on this pioneering project."

Stephane Richard, Chairman and CEO of Orange, commented: "This 'Cloud de Confiance' meets a growing need in the digital world. The French State recently highlighted this in defining their 'cloud au centre' policy and setting out the standards required regarding data protection and sovereignty. Orange, as a trusted partner for the digital transformation of businesses, operates, integrates and manages a range of trusted infrastructure services for its customers, whether they are public or private entities. We are delighted to partner with Capgemini to create a trusted-cloud solution for our existing and future BtoB customers and public organizations that will provide a wide-range of services, and in particular Microsoft 365, from within a sovereign infrastructure."

"Establishing a new 'Cloud de Confiance' service, which should be recognized by French authorities, through a company founded and led by Capgemini and Orange, will help accelerate France's digital transformation andmeet the standards defined by the French government in its national policy," said Jean-Philippe Courtois, EVP and President of Microsoft Global Sales, Marketing and Operations. "This announcement will contribute to France's economic growth, benefit the national technology and services partner ecosystem, and support the country's long-term success."

In the context of thenew cloud strategyannounced bytheFrenchgovernment, the French National Agency for Information Systems Security (ANSSI) has welcomed this project in light of security and sovereignty pre-requisites.

Commenting on this announcement, Guillaume Poupard, Director General of ANSSI, said: "In line with France's national cloud strategy outlined by the Government on May 17, cloud offers must achieve excellency in both performance and trustworthiness. Security criteria must be satisfied on every level, whether these are technical, operational or legal, and this is what ANSSI is aiming to certify through the SecNumCloud label. The overall ambition is to enable users to benefit from the best technologies that are run by trusted players from within an exclusively European legal framework and that these services provide unfailing security. With this in mind, ANSSI enthusiastically welcomes this ambitious project that meets these requirements."

Further details will be disclosed in due course following the finalization of agreements between the parties and the obtaining of the necessary authorizations from the relevant authorities of this project.

About Capgemini

Capgemini is a global leader in partnering with companies to transform and manage their business by harnessing the power of technology. The Group is guided everyday by its purpose of unleashing human energy through technology for an inclusive and sustainable future. It is a responsible and diverse organization of 270,000 team members in nearly 50 countries. With its strong 50 year heritage and deep industry expertise, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to address the entire breadth of their business needs, from strategy and design to operations, fueled by the fast evolving and innovative world of cloud, data, AI, connectivity, software, digital engineering and platforms. The Group reported in 2020 global revenues of 16 billion.

Get The Future You Want | www.capgemini.com

About Orange

Orange is one of the world's leading telecommunications operators with sales of 42.3 billion euros in 2020 and 140,000 employees worldwide at 31 March 2021, including 80,000 employees in France. The Group has a total customer base of 262 million customers worldwide at 31 March 2021, including 217 million mobile customers and 22 million fixed broadband customers. The Group is present in 26 countries. Orange is also a leading provider of global IT and telecommunication services to multinational companies, under the brand Orange Business Services. In December 2019, the Group presented its new "Engage 2025" strategic plan, which, guided by social and environmental accountability, aims to reinvent its operator model. While accelerating in growth areas and placing data and AI at the heart of its innovation model, the Group will be an attractive and responsible employer, adapted to emerging professions.

Orange is listed on Euronext Paris, www.orange-business.com or to follow us on Twitter: @orangegrouppr.

Orange and any other Orange product or service names included in this material are trademarks of Orange or Orange Brand Services Limited.

1 Cloud de Confiance is a sovereign cloud solution: a platform that complies with the French State's doctrine that requires SecNumCloud certification from the French National Cybersecurity Agency (ANSSI), as well as compliance with legal provisions.

2 The SecNumCloud label is a certification by the French National Cybersecurity Agency (ANSSI) aiming to improve protection for public authorities and Operators of Vital Importance (OVIs).

Attachment
The 3D printer maker takes the lead in technological innovation across the light curing 3D printer sector

SHENZHEN, China, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Anycubic, a leading 3D printer brand, is showcasing a rich lineup of new solutions and products at TCT Show (Booth: C40), including the Anycubic Cloud platform-based Photon Mono X Pro, the Digital Light Processing (DLP)-based Photon Ultra and the upcoming FDM 3D printer Vyper. With the release of these new offerings, Anycubic once again leads the way in the desktop light curing 3D printer market in terms of technological innovation and user experience.

"Over the past few years, Anycubic has maintained rapid growth with a continued commitment to in-house research and development of key 3D printing technologies, making it a pioneer and leader in the desktop 3D printer sector. The release of the three new disruptive products is a testament to the company's extensive industry experience and technological competence," said James Ouyang, vice president of R&D at Anycubic. "The three new printers have expanded the horizons of the 3D printing equipment market while widening the application of 3D printing technologies."

Mobile phones and 3D printers have a shared need for intelligence. The newly released Anycubic Cloud platform-based light curing solution comes with a number of key features, including model library, cloud slicing, cloud printing, file transmission, remote monitoring, equipment management and online upgrade. Based on taking a comprehensive approach to intelligence, the new solution lowers the threshold for 3D printing while simplifying the printing process. The Anycubic Cloud platform-based Photon Mono X Pro redefines the light curing 3D printing experience by virtue of a 64-bit high-performance mainboard, which delivers a much superior performance than conventional light curing 3D printers in terms of computing and graphics processing capabilities.

During the launch event, Anycubic also rolled out Photon Ultra, launched with Texas Instruments, a global semiconductor design & manufacturing company ranking among the Top10 list in its industry and the "Top 500 Companies in the world" for many years. Photon Ultra is a brand-new 3D printer that uses DLP technology. The launch of the product reflects the company's aggressive efforts in developing new desktop 3D printers. "Photon Ultra boasts a UV light utilization rate of up to 95 per cent, far higher than the LCD series' mere 1 to 5 per cent. With DLP technology, the new 3D printer increases the efficiency threefold compared with rivals that deploy the SLA printing technology. By combining DLP technology with Anycubic's uniformly distributed and stable UV light source, Photon Ultra enables high precision and fast printing," Mr. Ouyang added.

In addition, Anycubic also plans to roll out Vyper, a new FDM 3D printer with an intelligent leveling system that enables one-click leveling and printing by automatically leveling the hotbed. Vyper's printing platform utilizes a new process combining a special scratch-resistant coating with spring steel which resists deformation, even in high-temperature environments. The new user interface is easy to use and switches seamlessly between Chinese and English. Vyper offers a higher printing speed (up to 100 mm/s) than conventional 3D printers of the same quality.

Anycubic, a pioneer in the light curing 3D printing sector, has maintained strong growth while gaining recognition among customers worldwide since 2015, when the firm exported its first 3D printer. Please visit Anycubic's booth (C40) at TCT Show to experience the world's most advanced and intelligent 3D printers.

For more information, please visit https://www.anycubic.com/

Media Contact:

Carina, +86 16600287015

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1519085/TCT_1.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1519086/TCT_2.jpg

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Company's RT-PCR kits and workflow solutions will continue to safeguard capacity for NHS Test and Trace laboratory

PerkinElmer, Inc., a global leader committed to innovating for a healthier world, today announced that its contract to operate the NHS Test and Trace Newport Lighthouse laboratory has been extended through March 2022.

A collaboration between PerkinElmer and NHS Test and Trace, the COVID-19 Lighthouse laboratory in Newport, South Wales, plays a pivotal role in supporting the UK government's efforts to tackle COVID-19. Since being brought online in October 2020, the laboratory has processed over two million samples. The contract extension will see the facility's approximately 125 employees retained at the state-of-the-art facility, to maintain its capacity of delivering tens of thousands of tests daily.

As the nation transitions out of lockdown, the contract extension will ensure that PerkinElmer solutions and expertise will remain available and able to respond as needed. "Testing is essential so that individuals carrying the virus can be rapidly detected and virus levels within communities can be monitored," said Chris Hughes, managing director UK Ireland, PerkinElmer.

"The extension of the Newport Lighthouse laboratory's contract will enable our specialist team to continue utilizing our best-in-class technologies to ensure that maximum capacity will always align with NHS Test and Trace's testing strategy, while also being able to quickly respond to evolving public health needs."

Health Minister Lord Bethell said: "To help us face down this global pandemic, we have built the largest network of diagnostic testing facilities in British history, establishing the UK as a world-leader on testing. We have now conducted over 166 million tests to date more than any other European country and this would not have been possible without the work of our partners such as PerkinElmer. Regular testing is a centrepiece of our roadmap back to normal life and sites like the Newport Lighthouse Laboratory are playing a pivotal role in our cautious easing of restrictions and continued efforts to send this virus into retreat."

PerkinElmer is utilizing its chemagic 360 instruments and JANUS G3 PCR+ Workstations in UK labs to automate PerkinElmer's RNA extraction and RT-PCR tests. This total workflow solution enables rapid sample processing at higher volumes, helping to decrease turnaround time. PerkinElmer's OneSource services and PerkinElmer Genomics operations enable this turnkey approach to provide sample testing in order to meet the Government's COVID-19 testing requirements.

PerkinElmer continues to work on the frontlines of improving COVID-19 testing globally. The Company's comprehensive SARS-CoV-2 offerings span high throughput RNA extraction, RT-PCR assays, automated liquid handlers, integrated workstations, rapid antigen tests, and serology tests using ELISA, chemiluminescence, time-resolved fluorescence and lateral flow technologies.

About PerkinElmer

PerkinElmer enables scientists, researchers and clinicians to address their most critical challenges across science and healthcare. With a mission focused on innovating for a healthier world, we deliver unique solutions to serve the diagnostics, life sciences, food and applied markets. We strategically partner with customers to enable earlier and more accurate insights supported by deep market knowledge and technical expertise. Our dedicated team of about 14,000 employees worldwide is passionate about helping customers work to create healthier families, improve the quality of life, and sustain the wellbeing and longevity of people globally. The Company reported revenue of approximately $3.8 billion in 2020, serves customers in 190 countries, and is a component of the S&P 500 index. Additional information is available through 1-877-PKI-NYSE, or at www.perkinelmer.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005129/en/

Contacts:

U.S. Media Relations:

Chet Murray

(781) 663-5719

chet.murray@perkinelmer.com



UK Media Relations:

Sara Osman

+44 07836 226 882

Sara.osman@perkinelmer.com
PARIS, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Athonet, the world leader in private cellular network technology, announced today that its Professional-Grade Mobile Core Network has been selected by the digital technology operator and subsidiary of the ADP group, Hub One, to offer a range of innovative voice and data services to all employees working daily in the Paris airports. This choice comes as part of the launch of Hub One's professional 4G/5G mobile services, now available at Paris-Orly airport.

By deploying a private 4G/5G mobile network at Paris Orly, Paris Charles de Gaulle and Paris le Bourget airports, Hub One aims to provide its customers with the high-speed, reliable and secure connectivity required for digitisation, critical operations and the quality of the customer experience.

More specifically, Hub One aims to :

Ensure network full coverage of facilities and equipment, including public, airside, office and industrial areas.

Optimize access to resources: without conflict between network users, airport businesses will be able to fully utilize all available capacity.

Determine user connection policy and ensure full availability of network resources.

Control security and ensure that sensitive information does not leave the facility.

By choosing the Athonet core network to equip its private 4G/5G network, Hub One has grouped all its professional uses on a single dedicated infrastructure and reduced the complexity and lack of agility of legacy technologies.

Hub One's 4G/5G network significantly improves network performance and meets end-users' requirements for fast and secure access. Athonet brings the maturity of its solution thanks to the numerous deployments made, its ease of integration into an existing network and IT environment, enabled by the virtualisation of the various functions of the Core Network, its simplicity of management by means of APIs which integrate perfectly into an operational environment and into existing tools.

Together with Athonet's Professional-Grade Mobile Core and the access network of a leading RAN provider, Hub One's private network will enable customers at Paris-Charles De Gaulle, Paris-Orly and Paris Le-Bourget airports to take full advantage of the opportunities associated with the Smart Airport.

Airport hub customers of Hub One's professional mobile network, such as airlines and handlers, will benefit from a real lever to improve their operational efficiency in an environment made difficult by the health crisis and increasingly competitive. 4G/5G will offer extended capacity, a resilient network, geolocation, access to Big Data in real time and will enable the various users to optimise their processes and improve their exchanges (instant messages, video calls, data sharing between departments, automatic notifications, etc.).

"Athonet's 4G/5G Professional-Grade Mobile Core Network not only provides us with uncompromised reliability but also the full functionality of carrier grade networks, and does so with the agility and ease of use of a next generation, all-software solution," said Gregoire de La Crouee, Hub One's Mobile Pro Business Line Director. "It gives us all the flexibility we need to work with best-of-breed radio solutions to meet our specific performance and interconnection needs with our service platforms and scalability. Moreover, Athonet solution for Hub One has been audited and authorised by the French National Cybersecurity Agency."

"Athonet is very pleased to support Hub One in its digitalization program," said Gianluca Verin, president of Athonet. "Athonet's Professional-Grade Mobile Core Network, guaranteeing business-critical and mission-critical use, is the bridge between enterprises and private cellular networks. It combines the reliability of cellular networks with the simplicity of deployment and operation of a WIFI network for example."

About Athonet

With nearly one million SIMs deployed on its platforms, Athonet is the global leader in private cellular network technology. With Athonet's Professional-Grade LTE and 5G Network Core, an organization can easily deploy a private cellular network using any authorized available radio technology. Since the creation of the world's first private LTE network in 2011, Athonet's solution has been adopted by major governments, public safety organizations, mines, ports, airports, enterprises and mobile operators around the world. Athonet's next generation, software-only core network is designed to be used by IT professionals and organizations with minimal external dependency.

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Press Contact:

Aline Loiseau

aline.loiseau@athonet.com

+33645994039
China mulls stronger support for small businesses

Xinhua) 11:26, May 27, 2021

Workers make toys at a toy factory in Zaozhuang City, east China's Shandong Province, May 30, 2020. (Xinhua/Fan Changguo)

BEIJING, May 26 (Xinhua) -- China will increase support for small and micro enterprises and individual businesses to relieve the pressure on them, the State Council's Executive Meeting chaired by Premier Li Keqiang decided Wednesday.

The meeting also mulled measures to strengthen the weak links in rural compulsory education.

Under the complex and severe situations both at home and abroad, micro and small firms as well as individual businesses still face difficulties in their productions and operations, the meeting said, adding that more targeted measures should be taken to support their development.

The country should implement tax and fee cuts, ramp up inclusive financing, and implement measures to help those businesses deal with the impact of rising prices from the upstream industries, said the meeting.

China will crack down on hoarding and speculative behaviors that are pushing up the price of raw materials, the meeting stressed.

All market entities should be treated equally, the meeting noted, adding that discriminatory policies and regulations that hinder the entities' participation in economic activities should be abrogated.

China will enhance law enforcement in its fight against monopolies and unfair competition, and investigate and punish enterprises that are using advantageous market positions to grab market share through malicious subsidies and dumping at low prices.

In terms of strengthening the weak links in rural compulsory education, the meeting vowed to take effective measures to promote fairer education, narrowing gaps between rural areas and cities as well as in different regions.

The country will foster a stronger workforce of teachers in rural education, improve conditions in rural schools, and guarantee adequate funding.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
Jagan was at a review meeting with education, women and child welfare departments on Thursday. (Photo: Twitter @AndhraPradeshCM)

VIJAYAWADA: Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy sought special focus on 34,000 Foundational Schools in order to ensure quality education to children.

He was at a review meeting with education, women and child welfare departments on Thursday. He said that 80 per cent of children develop intellectual intelligence by the age of six years, which is why special focus should be on children between 3 to 8 years.

Jagan Mohan Reddy discussed various measures on providing strong foundational education to pre-primary and primary students during the review meeting. He said that there were 34,000 pre-primary and primary schools, which would be converted into foundational schools that can provide the best possible education.

He reiterated that it was his quest to provide quality education to poor students. YSR pre-primary schools and foundational schools have come up from those thoughts, he said. It was towards this that Mana Badi Nadu Nedu was established and schools are being revamped as a part of the programme.

The Chief Minister pointed out that the government is planning to set up a junior college in every mandal and directed officials to study the feasible options so that a decision can be taken later.

He said that foundational schools should be within a kilometre radius and high schools should be within a three-kilometre radius.

The Chief Minister directed officials to look into the impact of the new proposals and to report in the next review. If these proposals are to be implemented, Classes 3,4,5 will be elevated to upper primary or high schools. Once the work is completed, a plan should be prepared to start Nadu Nedu works in foundational schools.

He directed officials to focus on digital teaching once foundational schools are set up and go about it with a digital teaching methodology. He said that after black boards and green boards, the coming days will have digital boards.

Officials come up with Foundational schools blueprint

Officials of school education and women and child welfare departments have laid proposals for strong foundational education to pre-primary and primary students to Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy during a review meeting on Thursday.

They explained that special focus is laid on children in the three-eight years age-group for good brain development. The new proposals were laid with focus on effective utilisation of teachers and providing best education to those students and foundational schools will be set up in this regard. YSR Sampoorna Poshana will be implemented as usual in them.

The officials explained that under the proposals pre-primary-1, PP-2, preparatory, first and second class, would be turned into foundation schools. Anganwadi Centres will be merged with nearby local primary schools thus forming foundational schools. Such anganwadi centres being converted into PP-1 and PP-2 will come under the purview of Foundational Schools.

Curriculum, comprehensive teaching methods, enhancing skill levels related to PP-1 and PP-2, and to focus on multi-level learning through foundational schools.

They stated that classes 3, 4, 5 of primary schools will be transferred to nearby upper primary schools and high schools. The upper primary schools will be converted into high schools.

The officials further stated that a proposal is laid to bring anganwadi teachers into the teaching stream as foundational schools were set up. They will be given requisite training and can get to work as SGTs in primary schools through promotions.

The officials explained that health-related activities of anganwadi centres will be changed to YSR Village Clinics and urban clinics. Health, nutrition awareness, health screening, vaccines for immunizations, referral services will be changed to clinics.

Education minister Adimulapu Suresh, women and child welfare minister Thaneti Vanitha, school education principal secretary Buditi Rajashekar, woman and child welfare principal secretary AR Anuradha, panchayat raj commissioner Girija Shankar, school education commissioner Chinaveerabhadrudu, women and child welfare director Kritika Shukla, and other senior officials were present.
LONDON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In the clinical world, eyes - specifically the iris - have long been a useful instrument in helping healthcare professionals examine and determine a patient's health condition.

So in today's environment, where prevention is clearly preferable to cure - not least in eliminating further burdens on health services - a real-time screening system utilising the tremendous strides made in artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm technology would appear preferable.

This is where Ophtascan comes in. Developed by Oncotech Nordic AB, Ophtascan is a mobile in-real-time detection system of pre-cancerous and all four levels of cancer conditions and targeted oncological diseases in the human body. By simply using their own smartphone devices, users can photograph their iris, and upload the image to Oncotech's server. Oncotech's AI diagnostic and deep learning system then sends the results back to the user within just 25 seconds.

Oncotech's CEO Andre Rafnsson explains, "People will be able to self-diagnose for pre-cancerous and targeted existing cancerous conditions via a smartphone in-real time. The process is quick, on demand, cost effective - and does not overload the public health care diagnostic system unnecessarily, hence eliminating patient cancer screening waiting lists.

"Conditions currently clinically validated and screened include lung cancer, liver cancer, breast cancer, uterine cancer, and prostate cancer."

Rafnsson has over 25 years' management experience in the international pharmaceutical, medical device, specialty chemicals, and the biotech sectors. With its base of operations in both Sweden and the United Kingdom, Oncotech has been established by Rafnsson, alongside a management team consisting of CTO Marat Kalimulov, CSO Professor Shamil Gantzev and COO Rustem Amirov.

The roots of the Ophtascan proof of concept technology can be traced back to research and development undertaken by the Russian military 40 years ago. In those rudimentary times, the nascent technology wasn't sophisticated enough to realise the system's full potential. In 2014, Kalimulov and Professor Gantzev relaunched the initiative by incorporating IT and AI, giving fresh impetus to the possibilities offered by an examination of the eye.

Last year, validation of Ophtascan was completed, following tests on 800 oncology patients over a three-year period. The scanning precision success rate was over 96 per cent, with Rafnsson expecting to reach a 98-99 per cent precision scanning rate by the third quarter of 2021, as additional patients are tested and data is validated on a daily basis.

CEO Andre Rafnsson continued, "Our patent is now pending for the software and design algorithms. We have diligently started discussions with several telemedicine and remote health diagnostic business partners in Europe, North America and Asia with a view to license the Ophtascan technology. Technically advanced businesses can see the potential impact of this breakthrough in increased positive medical outcomes for patients. Cancer survival rate is determined by a number of factors, and early detection is one of the most significant determinants. Ophtascan is precise, quick, well documented and is highly cost-effective.

"The very exciting news too is that new research is underway for Ophtascan tests that will examine the early warning signs for type 2 diabetes, a condition with rates that are seen as a 'ticking time-bomb'. The diabetes clinical test-trials have been completed with a positive proof of concept confirmation, where 100 patients have been successfully tested."

https://oncotechservices.com/

Ophtascan is the registered trade mark of Oncotech Nordic AB.

About Oncotech Nordic AB

Oncotech works with internationally acclaimed oncologists and clinical researchers based Japan, Denmark and Russia (Ufa and St Petersburg).

The Therapeutic R&D and focus is on Diagnostics (mobile in-time cancer screening technology) and cancer treatment Therapies (breast, uterus, lung, prostate, pancreas, liver and neuroblastoma).

R&D partners include:

Dana Genetics A/S, Eldon Biologicals A/S, Cencor Technology LLC,

LymTreat LLC, PeritonTreat LLC and the Skolkovo Foundation.

The fully-funded business was set up in London, UK in 2020 with a Nordic operational subsidiary in 2021, headed by CEO Andre Rafnsson.

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- Launch of Southern Europe headquarters in Barcelona, Spain adds to its existing Engineering Hub in Porto, Portugal

- Checkout.com powers leading merchants including Glovo, Farfetch, Mango, Veepee, Fintonic, Blueground, XE.gr and Freshly Cosmetics

- eCommerce penetration rate in Spain expected to grow 25% by 2024[1], demonstrating growth opportunities for local and global merchants

LONDON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Checkout.com, a leading cloud payment provider, announced the launch of their Barcelona office to serve as a headquarters for operations across Southern European markets, including Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece.

Europe is the home market for Checkout.com, which already serves as the payment provider for many of the region's leading eCommerce businesses like Mango, Farfetch, Glovo and Klarna. These merchants rely on Checkout.com for a fast and agile platform that drives better performance and increased acceptance rates. This announcement represents an even stronger commitment to Europe, as the company deepens its service to the region.

The global COVID-19 crisis has accelerated the adoption of eCommerce across the region.

Pre-Pandemic Southern Europe already demonstrated a material eCommerce opportunity with eCommerce adoption rates in Spain (58%), Italy (52%) and Greece (50%). Meanwhile, expectations are that penetration in future years will outpace other regions in Europe, as the level of eCommerce adoption still lags behind the UK's 82% and Germany's 71%. eCommerce penetration statistics clearly show a growing and underserved market. Checkout.com's continued investment in the region will support local enterprises with better performing online payments and improved digital checkout experiences as more consumers turn to online purchasing.

Antoine Nougue, Head of Europe at Checkout.com, said: "'Think global, act local' is at the heart of our expansion proposition for global enterprises. Our local team across Southern Europe has deep insight and knowledge for those merchants wanting to expand and grow. We've witnessed explosive growth across the region, with more merchants investing in their eCommAerce strategies to serve an emerging online market segment."

Nougue continues: "The localisation of our proposition to the market removes payments as a barrier to scale for fast-growing online businesses, allowing them to unlock more revenue opportunities and serve customers a frictionless checkout experience."

Florian Jensen, Global Fraud and Payments Director at Glovo, said: "As one of the world's leading multi-category delivery players, with millions of users across 20 markets worldwide, a localised proposition is imperative to our success. Checkout.com's global payments routing platform has enabled us to optimise our card processing in existing markets and expand into new territories with speed and ease. Their growth mindset and agile platform make them the perfect payments partner for a global scaling company like Glovo."

Expansion opportunities

Southern European countries have seen rolling lockdowns and restrictions for more than a year. While many of these countries are seeing eased restrictions, eCommerce adoption is expected to continue accelerating, with growth projected at 17% to 153 million customers in the next three years. Spain is anticipated to have the highest growth rate, with 35 million customers turning to online services by 2024, representing a 25% increase -- on par with the highest growth markets, such as China. This growth is expected to equate to a 66% increase in eCommerce revenues hitting $28.7bn.

Jonathan G. Rambal, General Director of Southern Europe at Checkout.com, said: "The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital payments across the region of Southern Europe, with an overnight digitalisation for some enterprises and an acceleration for others. Checkout.com 's growing presence in the region serves to support enterprise merchants through this digital transformation, with a best in class payment platform and on-the-ground market experts to reach new domestic and international customers ."

Apostolos Foteinakis, Chief Financial Officer at Blueground, said: "As a global proptech startup with customers spread across 15 cities worldwide, we rely on the support of strategic technology partners like Checkout.com. Their flexible, global payments platform aligns perfectly with our business model - enabling people to flexibly live wherever they choose to across our thousands of quality, turnkey homes. Through a single integration and with a range of interfaces, we've been able to create a simple payment experience for our customers, anywhere, anytime. The expert support we have received so far, especially in complex regions such as MENA, demonstrates that Checkout.com is the right strategic partner to support growing businesses."

Checkout.com has a team of more than 1,100 people globally and 20 employees across its Porto and Barcelona offices and expects to double over the next 12 months in the Southern European region. For more information about Checkout.com's services in Southern Europe, please email sales.southeu@checkout.com.

About Checkout.com:

Checkout.com empowers businesses to adapt and innovate. The company's technology makes payments seamless. Flexible solutions, granular data, and instant insights help global enterprises launch new products in new markets and create outstanding customer experiences. Checkout.com provides the fastest, most reliable payments in more than 150 currencies, with in-country acquiring, world-class fraud filters and reporting through one API. Checkout.com can accept all major international credit and debit cards, as well as popular alternative and local payment methods. The company launched in 2012 and now has a team of over 1,100 people across 18 offices worldwide, offering local expertise where it's needed. Find out more at www.checkout.com .

1, Source: Statista Digital Market Outlook 2020
Oslo, 27 May 2021. PCI Biotech Holding ASA ("PCI Biotech" or the "Company") issue this notification on behalf of its chairman, Hans Peter Bhn.



Hans Peter Bhn is chairman of PCI Biotech and shall open the annual general meeting of the Company on 28 May 2021. Mr. Bhn holds 123,662 shares, representing 0.3 per cent of the share capital of PCI Biotech. Mr. Bhn has received powers of attorney to represent and vote for 5,887,479 additional shares. In total, Mr. Bhn will represent and vote for 16.1 per cent of the share capital. A major part of the powers of attorney are without voting instructions. The powers of attorney are only valid at the annual general meeting on 28 May 2021.

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 4 -3, cf. section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

Contact information:

PCI Biotech Holding ASA, Ullernchausseen 64, N-0379 Oslo

Ronny Skuggedal, CFO, rs@pcibiotech.no, Mobile: +47 9400 5757
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 27, 2021 / Gold Mountain Mining Corp. ("Gold Mountain" or the "Company") (TSXV:GMTN)(OTCQB:GMTNF)(FRA:5XFA) is pleased to announce an updated preliminary economic analysis of the Elk Gold Project. The update is based on the increased Mineral Resource Estimate announced on May 14, 2021, the Ore Purchase Agreement with New Gold Inc. ("New Gold") announced on January 26, 2021 (the "Ore Purchase Agreement") and the Mining Contract with Nhwelmen-Lake LP announced on January 19, 2021 (the "Mining Contract"). An updated preliminary economic assessment (the "PEA") will be filed on the Company's website and SEDAR within 45 calendar days of May 14, 2021.

Highlights:

Updated PEA with an After-tax NPV5% of C$231M

19,000oz annual production (Years 1-3) expanding to 65,000oz annual production (Years 4-11)

Increased cost certainty over September 2020 PEA through executed: Construction and Mining Contract with Nhwelmen-Lake LP Ore Purchase Agreement with New Gold Inc.

Revised mine plan eliminates construction of an onsite mill and incorporates underground mining

Elk Gold Project PEA Summary

The PEA contemplates an initial 19,000 ounce per year mine that ramps up to 65,000 ounces of annual production by Year 4. The pre and post tax NPV (5% discount) are $395M and $231M, respectively. The PEA contemplates that for the life of mine, the mineralized material from the Elk Gold Project will be mined by the Company's contract mining partner, Nwhelmen-Lake LP ("Nwhelmen-Lake") and then delivered to New Gold's New Afton Mine located approximately 130km from the Elk Gold Project (the "New Afton Mine").

The PEA is preliminary in nature and 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. There is no certainty that the PEA will be realized. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

Elk Gold Resource Update - Summary

On May 14, 2021 the Company announced the following updated resource estimate at the Elk Gold Project:

Classification Tonnes AuEq (g/t) Au Capped g/t Ag Capped g/t AuEq (Oz) Measured 196,000 9.9 9.8 9.9 63,000 Indicated 3,148,000 5.8 5.7 11.2 589,000 Measured + Indicated 3,344,000 6.1 5.9 11.1 651,000 Inferred 1,029,000 4.8 4.7 10.9 159,000

CIM definitions were followed for classification of Mineral Resources.

Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

Results are presented in-situ and undiluted.

Mineral resources are reported at a cut-off grade of 0.3 g/t Au for pit-constrained resources and 3.0 g/t for underground resources.

The number of tonnes and metal ounces are rounded to the nearest thousand.

The Resource Estimate includes both gold and silver assays. The formula used to combine the metals is:

AuEq = ((Au_Cap*55.81*0.96) + (Ag_Cap*0.76*0.86))/(55.81*0.96)

The Resource Estimate is effective as of May 1, 2021.

Elk Gold Project Preliminary Economic Assessment'

Qualification and Assumptions

The following section sets out the qualifications and assumptions behind the economic analysis supporting the PEA. The PEA envisages a conventional open pit mining operation for the life of mine with underground mining is commissioned in Year 4. The first three years of operation are planned at 70,000tpa (200tpd). Starting in Year 4 of the mine plan, the mine expands to a 324,000tpa (900tpd) operation.

The PEA is preliminary in nature and 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. There is no certainty that the PEA will be realized. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

Existing Infrastructure

The Elk Gold Project is a past-producing mine with much of the required surface infrastructure still in place that is required to re-start operations. The site is serviced by the all-season, four-lane Highway 97C connecting Kelowna and Merritt. An existing forest service road provides access to proposed open pits. Surface water management infrastructure around the proposed open pit is already in place including collection ditches and sumps. The stockpile pad where material will be placed prior to being shipped off-site for processing is in place, as well as the sample preparation plant which is required for sampling material from the mine for assay. A laydown area is already in place for mobile equipment maintenance, fuel storage and office facilities.

Pit Optimization

A pit optimization analysis was carried out using the Lerch-Grossman algorithm which is industry standard for assessing the ultimate pit limits for an open pit mine. The parameters used in the pit optimization are detailed in the table below.

Item Unit Value Au Price US$/oz 1,600 Au Recovery % 92 Au Selling Cost % 2 NSR and Mill Revenue Split % 14 Mining Cost US$/t 3.03 Highway Haulage and G&A Cost US$/t milled 19.46 Pit Slope Angles Overall degrees 45 Mining Dilution % Internal Mining Recovery % 100 Strip Ratio (est.) Waste (t): Ore (t) 20:1 Processing Rate tpd 900

The pit shell with a revenue factor of 0.64 was selected as the ultimate pit for the PEA mine plan and it contained 1.43M tonnes of mineralized material above the cut-off grade and 28.6M tonnes of mineralized material below the cut-off grade for a strip ratio of 20.0 waste (t): 1 ore (t). The average gold grade in mineralized material above cut-off was 4.68g/t.

Open Pit Mine Design and Pit Phasing

A detailed mine design was developed for the ultimate pit limits. The pit design was developed according to the pit design guidelines in the Health, Safety and Reclamation Code for Mines in BC. The ultimate pit design demonstrated that the material volumes from the ultimate pit shell were achievable when accounting for pit access ramps and slope configurations.

Interior pit phases were developed using optimized pit shells which used lower gold prices and therefore only targeted higher value areas of the deposit. Targeting higher value areas of the deposit allows for the operation to increase revenue and reduce costs early in the mine life, which can improve the discounted cash flow and net present value of the project. The open pit used a cut-off grade of 0.5g/t Au. The ultimate pit design includes 1.16M tonnes of mineralized material above cut-off grade and 22.8M tonnes of rock below cut-off.

Underground Stope Design

The underground mining is contemplated to be in operation from Years 4 to Year 11 concurrently with open pit operations. Stopes for underground mine development were established by generating grade shells from the resource block model at a diluted cut-off grade of 4.2g/t Au. Only large continuous sections of the resulting grade shells which represent practical stope development dimensions were selected for mining. The selected stopes for the underground mine plan are limited to the 1300, 2500, 2600 and 2800 veins. The mineral resource above cut-off was diluted to reflect 1.4m wide stopes which was an external dilution of 40%.

Decline access was designed along the footwall of each of the underground stope solids and that development length was scheduled to ensure access to the stopes as required by the production schedule. The mine design includes dewatering and refurbishing the existing historical decline on site. An additional 10% was added to the development distance to capture cross-cuts and pull-outs resulting in a total development of 8,360m over the life of mine.

Rock Storage Facility Design

Rock below the cut-off grade of the operation will be stockpiled in a rock storage facility which has been designed west of the open pit. The facility is designed on a gentle sloping area within an existing forestry cut-block to minimize impact on intact ecosystems. The facility is designed in 20m lifts with 37 faces. The overall slope of the facility is 26 and the total capacity is 23M tonnes assuming a loose density of 1.8t/m3.

Mine Schedule

The mine is scheduled to release 70,000tpa of plant feed for Years 1 to 3. In Year 4, the mine is planned to expand to 324,000tpa. The material movement that is proposed in the PEA is presented in the table below.

Total Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Year 6 Year 7 Year 8 Year 9 Year 10 Year 11 Calendar Days (#) 3,723 365 365 365 366 365 365 365 366 365 365 189 Mineralized material Mined dmt (000's) 2,542 70 70 70 324 324 324 325 324 324 324 63 Waste Mined dmt (000's) 22,765 2,594 2,843 2,401 2,617 2,236 2,165 2,481 2,479 2,641 308 - Au (g/t) 6.8 10.4 8.4 9.2 6.3 6.3 7.2 7.0 5.9 7.8 7.2 4.9 Ag (g/t) 11.5 9.1 9.0 8.2 10.8. 9.1 10.1 8.3 11.8 15.0 18.8 12.4 S (%) 0.81 0.81 0.08 0.10 0.50 0.50 0.9 1.2 1.3 1.0 1.1 1.8 Strip Ratio (w:o) 18.8 19.1 18.1 17.8 56.3 13.4 11.2 36.3 31.0 33.1 4.8 - Au Mined oz (000's) 570 23.3 18.8 20.8 65.6 65.2 75.3 73.5 61.7 81.0 75.4 9.8 Au Recovered oz (000's) 525 21.5 17.3 19.1 60.3 60.0 69.3 67.6 56.7 74.5 69.3 9.1 Ag Mined oz (000's) 958 20.4 20.3 18.5 112.5 95.1 105.2 87.0 122.6 156.3 195.5 25.0 Ag Recovered oz (000's) 671 14.2 14.2 13.0 78.7 66.6 73.7 60.9 85.8 109.4 136.8 17.5

Mine Development Schedule

Year 1

The first year of mining includes two months of site preparation. The current year activities include developing the new water settling pond below the Rock Storage Facility ("RSF"), and associated collection ditches. It also includes stripping organic material, topsoil, and till from the initial footprint of the RSF and open pit Phase 1 as well as mobilizing the initial fleet of mobile equipment, modular office facilities, and explosives storage.

The remainder of Year 1 will be the initial year of mining production, including 70,000 tonnes of mineralized material shipped to the New Afton Mine.

Years 2 and 3

The mine will continue to operate the initial phases of the open pit and transport 70,000 tpa of mineralized material to the New Afton Mine. The mine will also initiate an Environmental Assessment process which is required to expand mine production in subsequent years, as well as apply for a mine permit amendment for the expanded mining rate. The increase in production in Year 4 assumes all permits are in hand. In Year 3, the existing underground decline will be rehabilitated and extended in preparation for underground mining activities.

Years 4 to 10

Upon receipt of an Environmental Assessment Certificate, the mining rate will increase deliveries to the New Afton Mine to 324,000 tpa. The open pit mining rate will increase to an average rate of 150,000 tonnes of mineralized material per year. Underground mining activities will commence on the 1300 vein system to supplement the open pit plant feed, followed by the 2500, 2600 and 2800 veins later in the mine life. The combined open pit and underground plant feed will total 324,000 tonnes per year sold to the New Afton Mine.

Year 11

The final year of production mining will also include the initiation of major reclamation activities. The mine will prepare ahead of time for the ultimate reclamation and closure of the facility.

Year 12

Major mine site reclamation activities will be completed.

Mineral Processing

The PEA does not contemplate any mineral processing on site.

On January 26th 2021, the Company entered into the Ore Purchase Agreement whereby the Company will deliver mineralized material to the New Afton Mine. Under the terms of the Ore Purchase Agreement, Gold Mountain will deliver 70,000 tonnes of mineralized material per annum or approximately 200 tonnes per day. The Ore Purchase Agreement has a term of three years. On May 7, 2021 the Company and New Gold entered into a non-binding Letter of Intent whereby New Gold agreed to purchase up to 350,000 tonnes per year of mineralized material from the Elk Gold Project.

The mineralized material will be sampled and weighed at the Elk Gold Project site to determine the contained ounces of gold and silver being delivered to the New Afton Mine. The Company and New Gold are in the process of finalizing the sampling procedure. Following delivery of the mineralized material, New Gold will pay Gold Mountain at the end of each calendar month based on the value of the gold and silver in the mineralized material, net of the agreed metallurgical recovery and concentrate selling costs.

A copy of the Ore Purchase Agreement was filed on the Company's SEDAR profile on February 3, 2021 and is available to view at www.sedar.com.

Infrastructure Construction Requirements

The infrastructure required for Years 1 to 3 of the mine plan is limited to a modular office facility, surface water management facilities, fuel storage, explosive storage and a pad for vehicle maintenance which will be constructed with run-of-mine rock. Initial power supply requirements are limited to generators already owned by the Company and potable water will be delivered to site by a local supplier. Sewage from on-site facilities will be collected by a contractor for disposal. Mine emergency response will have a dedicated vehicle equipped to respond to any incidents in the operation. Upon inclusion of underground mining in Year 4, infrastructure will expand to include increased power generation, ventilation and utilities for the underground workings. No processing facility is being contemplated which significantly reduces the on-site infrastructure requirements of the project and eliminates the need for a tailings storage facility.

Environmental Studies, Permitting and Social or Community Impact

Gold Mountain has carried out numerous environmental baseline studies which were completed to support the application for a 200tpd mining permit submitted in May 2020. That permitting process is ongoing and is expected to be finalized in June 2021. Gold Mountain anticipates that it will require an Environmental Assessment Certificate and Mine Permit Amendment before the operation can expand to 900tpd. The PEA assumes that the Company holds all permits necessary to increase production and that New Gold obtains all permits necessary to process an increase in mineralized material from the Elk Gold Project.

As a part of ongoing project development, exploration activities and permitting processes, Gold Mountain has been engaged with numerous First Nation Bands and Associations. The Elk Gold Project is located in the traditional territory of the Nlaka'pamux and Syilx Nations and has entered into Memorandums of Understanding with three neighbouring communities.

Economic Analysis

Nhwelmen-Lake Mining Contract

On January 19, 2021, the Company entered into the Mining Contract with Nhwelmen-Lake for construction and contract mining services at the Elk Gold Project. Nhwelmen-Lake is a majority owned, First Nations mining contractor.

Pursuant to the terms of the Mining Contract, Nhwelmen-Lake will be paid a fixed price per tonne mined over the first three years which is determined based on the planned production rate, mined volumes, haulage distances and equipment productivity. The scope of the Mining Contract includes mining of mineralized material at a rate of 70,000 tonnes per annum (200 tonnes per day), waste mining, drilling, blasting, hauling, site supervision, supply of operating personnel, road maintenance, dust suppression as well as all the site preparation activities required prior to commencing mine operations, including topsoil stockpiling and preparing surface water management structures. Nhwelmen-Lake will also provide the haulage of plant feed material from the Elk property to the New Afton mine.

The Mining Contract is for the life of mine while the price schedule carries a three-year term. The obligations of the Company under the Mining Contract begin upon the Company delivering a notice of commencement to Nhwelmen-Lake.

A copy of the Mining Contract was filed on the Company's SEDAR profile on January 22, 2021 and is available to view at www.sedar.com.

Open Pit Mine Operating Costs

The PEA operating costs reflect the life-of-mine average costs under the terms of the Mining Contract which is $4.50/t mined. As a result of commissioning the underground mine in Year 4 to operate concurrently with the open pit mine, the strip ratio was minimized which reduced the open pit operating costs.

Underground Mine Operating Costs

Underground mining costs are based on a narrow-vein long hole mining method, mining 10m high stopes. The underground mining cost, excluding transportation to New Afton and G&A, is $92/t mined and is based on the size of the stopes and estimated productivity.

Highway Haulage Costs

Haulage costs between the Elk Gold Project and the New Afton Mine are $14.50/tonne which is captured in the Mining Contract

Mineral Process Operating Costs

Under the terms of the Ore Purchase Agreement, New Gold will purchase mineralized material from the Elk Gold Project for a percentage of the net revenue from the anticipated sales of gold and silver. As such, New Gold is not charging the Company any unit processing costs.

General and Administrative Costs

General and Administrative costs were developed on an annual basis and include costs for administrative staff, supplies and mine rescue training and equipment. The total general and administrative cost is estimated to be $950,000 per year.

Mine Capital Costs

The start-up capital costs for the Elk Gold Project is $9.0M which is defined in the Mining Contract. This capital cost quote includes establishing the required site facilities such as an office/dry facility, fuel storage, explosive magazines, topsoil and overburden stockpiling, surface water management facilities and the dewatering of the historic open pits. This total also includes $2.5M in working capital and $2.8M in capitalized stripping prior to the initial mineralized material production.

There is an additional $63.5M in sustaining capital costs which includes the development of the underground mining operation starting in year 4 as well as the mine site closure and reclamation.

The mine capital costs for initial operations (Year 1) and the sustaining capital are included in the table below.

Item Initial Capital ($ '000s) Sustaining Capital ($ '000s) Total Cost ($ '000s) Office/Dry/Fuel Storage 387 4,261 4,648 Maintenance Facility 43 473 516 Explosives Magazines 190 440 630 Surface Water Management 930 - 930 RMSF Topsoil Salvage 394 - 394 Open Pit Topsoil Salvage 657 - 657 Access Road/Gate/Site General 1,013 - 1,013 Initial Pit Dewatering 85 - 85 Capitalize Stripping 2,849 - 2,849 Underground Development - 41,800 41,800 Mine Closure/Reclamation - 10,000 10,000 Working Capital 2,500 -2,500 - Total Mine Capital 9,008 54,474 63,482

Mineral Processing Capital Costs

The PEA does not contemplate construction of a processing facility on site at any stage of the mine life given that it will be delivering all mineralized material to New Gold's New Afton Mine pursuant to the terms of the Ore Purchase Agreement.

Owner's Costs

In addition to the operating and capital costs set out above, there is a total of $16.7M in owners cost over the life-of-mine.

Item Cost ($,000) Property payment $6,0001 Reclamation Bond $5,000 Technical Studies $800 Environmental Studies $600 Corporate costs $1,800 Permitting $2,500

1. Remaining Property payments are payable in two equal annual installments of $3,000,000 in May 2022 and 2023.



The tables below further summarize the basis for the PEA and the qualifications and assumptions made by the Qualified Person who prepared the economic analysis:

Base Case: $1,600/oz long-term gold price and an exchange rate of 1.25 (US$/CAD$) Gold Price Long-term US$1,600 Exchange Rate 1.25 NPV @ 5% Pre-tax $395 million Net present value (NPV 5%) After-tax $231 million Year 1 owner's costs $3.9 million Year 1 capital costs $9.0 million Sustaining owner's costs $12.8 million Sustaining capital costs $54.5 million After tax payback period 1 Year All in sustaining costs (AISC) per ounce gold US$554 / troy ounce PEA life of mine (LOM) 11 years LOM metal production gold equivalent ounces 582,080 oz Base Case: $1,600/oz long-term gold price and an exchange rate of 1.25 (US$/CAD$) LOM metal recovered gold equivalent ounces 532,942 oz LOM average gold head grade 6.98 g/t LOM average silver head grade 11.73 g/t

IRR Note: There is no pre-production capital for the Elk Gold Project. All capital costs of approximately $9.0M, are captured in Year 1 of operations, which results in a positive cashflow of $27.2M. To calculate the IRR, the NPV is set to zero. Since there is no negative cashflow that precedes the positive cashflow, IRR is not calculable.

Additional PEA Parameters: Gold Recovery 92% Silver Recovery 70% Gold Payable 96% Silver Payable 90% Gold TC/RC $6.00/oz Silver TC/RC $0.50/oz NSR Royalty 2%

The PEA is preliminary in nature and 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. There is no certainty that the PEA will be realized. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

PEA Sensitivities

The table below sets out a sensitivity analysis showing the effect the price of gold has on the Elk Gold Project's net present value ("NPV"). The bold line shows the PEA's base case.

Gold Price Pre-tax NPV (5%) ($M) Post-tax NPV (5%) ($M) 2100 602.9 354.5 1900 519.7 305.0 1800 478.2 280.3 1600 395.4 231.0 1400 311.9 181.3 1200 228.7 131.2

Elk Gold Project Resource Estimate

The table below sets out the detailed results of the updated Mineral Resource estimate for the Elk Gold Project. The effective date of the resource estimate is May 1, 2021 (the "Resource Estimate") and was originally disclosed in a comprehensive press release dated May 14, 2021 a copy of which is available on the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.

Classification Tonnes Au Equivalent (g/t) Au Capped (g/t) Ag Capped (g/t) AuEq (Oz) Elk Gold Pit-Constrained Resources Measured 196,000 9.9 9.8 9.9 63,000 Indicated 2,835,000 5.1 5.0 9.2 468,000 Measured + Indicated 3,031,000 5.4 5.3 9.3 531,000 Inferred 835,000 3.6 3.5 6.5 96,000 Elk Gold Underground Constrained Resources Measured 0 0 0 0 0 Indicated 313,000 12.0 11.6 29.3 120,000 Measured + Indicated 313,000 12.0 11.6 29.3 120,000 Inferred 194,000 10.1 9.9 18.5 63,000 Elk Gold Total Resources Measured 196,000 9.9 9.8 9.9 63,000 Indicated 3,148,000 5.8 5.7 11.2 589,000 Measured + Indicated 3,344,000 6.1 5.9 11.1 651,000 Inferred 1,029,000 4.8 4.7 8.8 159,000

CIM definitions were followed for classification of Mineral Resources.

Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

Results are presented in-situ and undiluted.

Mineral resources are reported at a cut-off grade of 0.3 g/t Au for pit-constrained resources and 3.0 g/t for underground resources.

The number of tonnes and metal ounces are rounded to the nearest thousand.

The Resource Estimate includes both gold and silver assays. The formula used to combine the metals is:

AuEq = ((Au_Cap*55.81*0.96) + (Ag_Cap*0.76*0.86))/(55.81*0.96)

The Resource Estimate is effective as of May 1, 2021.

Several factors have contributed to the change in this resource estimate from previous estimates. The primary factors affecting that change are the addition of 41 new diamond drill holes, discovery of mineralized intercepts that were not sampled from historical drill cores, changes to the constraining pit shell parameters and changes to the vein model interpretation.

Mineral Resource Estimate Assumptions

Data Verification

The data that forms the basis for the Resource Estimate was verified by the Qualified Person using industry standard methods. Drill hole collar locations were confirmed with independent surveyors' using high precision GPS equipment. Analytical accuracy and precision are monitored using commercial standards, blanks, re-analysis of both coarse rejects and pulps. A review of all data inputs to the drilling database, both historical and recent, has allowed a sufficient level of confidence to include the drill database in the Resource Estimate.

Key Assumptions, Parameters and Methods Used to Estimate Resources

Exploration Information

The data from the 41 Phase 1 drill holes were added to the 2019 drill data for an aggregate total of 973 holes that intersected the 33 modelled mineralized zones. The assay file contained 19,375 gold and silver assays of which 4,389 were contained within the modelled zones.

Grade Capping

A cumulative frequency curve was generated for both gold and silver assay values to determine whether capping of assay values was appropriate. There is a distinct break in the gold assay cumulative frequency curve at 300g/t and that value was taken as the capping value. There were 12 gold assay values over 300g/t. The silver cumulative frequency curve has a break at 400g/t and that value was taken as the capping value. There are 13 samples in the population which were greater than 400g/t silver.

Vein Modelling

The Resource Estimate is constrained to a vein wireframe model which was developed using LeapfrogTM software by clipping the wireframes to a combination of drill hole composites and lithological units.

Metal Equivalency

The Resource Estimate includes both gold and silver assay values and the combined value is expressed as a gold equivalency. The formula by which the two metals are combined is:

AuEq = ((Au_Cap*55.81*0.96) + (Ag_Cap*0.76*0.86))/(55.81*0.96)

The table below provides the metal equivalency calculation parameters.

Parameter Unit Value Gold Grade g/t Variable Silver Grade g/t Variable Gold Price US$/oz 1,736 Gold Price US$/g 55.81 Silver Price US$/oz 23.70 Silver Price US$/g 0.76 Recovery of Gold % 0.96 Recovery of Silver % 0.86

Mineral Resource Classification

Mineral resources were classified as Measured, Indicated or Inferred according to the criteria set out in the table below.

Classification on Category Composites Major (m) Median (m) Minor (m) Min. Max. Max./Holes Measured 8 8 1 25 25 25 Indicated 4 8 1 60 60 60 Inferred 2 8 1 80 80 80

Only material in the 1300 vein was allowed to be classified as measured because that is the only zone that has been explored from underground and has provided three-dimensional exposures of the mineralization as well as close-spaced testing by underground drilling.

Reasonable Prospect of Economic Extraction

The open pit portion of the Resource Estimate was constrained by an economic pit shell using the following parameters:

Parameter Unit Value Gold US$/oz 1,736 Gold US$/g 55.81 Silver US$/oz 23.75 Silver US$/g 0.76 Exchange Rate US$:C$ 0.80 Production Rate t/d 900 Mining Cost $/t material 2.70 Processing + G&A + Trucking Costs $/t mineralized material 21.00 Recovery Au % 96 Recovery Ag % 86 NSR % 2 Selling Cost % 2 Pit Slope degrees 50

Legal, Political and Environmental risks

There are no known environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-economic, marketing, political, or other relevant factors that could materially affect the mineral resource estimate.

Qualified Persons

The foregoing technical information was approved by Grant Carlson, P.Eng., a Qualified Person, as defined under National Instrument 43-101 and the Chief Operating Officer for Gold Mountain Mining Corp.

The technical information relating to the resource estimate was prepared by Greg Mosher P. Geo (Global Mineral Resource Services) a Qualified Person as such term is defined under National Instrument 43-101 who is independent of Gold Mountain.

The technical information relating to the project economics were prepared by Antonio Loschiavo P. Eng (AKF Mining Services Inc. and also responsible for the overall preparation of the PEA), and a Qualified Person as such term is defined under National Instrument 43-101 who is independent of the Company.

About Gold Mountain Mining

Gold Mountain is a British Columbia based gold and silver exploration and development company focused on resource expansion at the Elk Gold Project, a past-producing mine located 57 KM from Merritt in SOuth Central British Columbia. Additional information is available at www.sedar.com or on the Company's new website at www.gold-mountain.ca.

For Further information, please contact

Gold Mountain Mining Corp.

Kevin Smith, Director and Chief Executive Officer

Phone: 604-309-6340

Email: ks@gold-mountain.ca

Website: www.gold-mountain.ca

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) has reviewed or accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this Release

This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward- looking statements include statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release and are not purely historical including any information or statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future and often, but not always, use words or phrases such as "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "estimates" or "intends", or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements include but are not limited to: the anticipated annual production rates at the Elk Gold Project, the ability of the Company or New Gold to obtain all of the permits necessary to increase production in Year 4 of the mine life, the costs associated with bringing the Elk Gold Project into production, the timing for the Company to receive the permits required to commence construction and all other statements that are not historical facts. These forward looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; delay or failure to receive board, shareholder or regulatory approvals; the price of gold; and the results of current exploration. 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. Gold Mountain 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. For a comprehensive overview of all risks that may impact the Company, please see the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis for the year ended January 31, 2021 a copy of which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

SOURCE: Gold Mountain Mining Corp

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/649329/Gold-Mountain-Updates-Project-Economics-at-the-Elk-Gold-Project
On the podium areGuido Alberto Marsico (22 years old, University of Suor Orsola Benincasa of Naples), Vittorio Ranieri (21 years old, Bocconi University) and Vincenzo D'Ambrosio (24 years old, LUISS University).

With the announcement of the winners, the Sustainable Investment Challenge, the online competition created by Banca Generali and Reply in collaboration with MIP Politecnico di Milano, MainStreet Partners and CFA Society Italy, has officially come to an end.

The Challenge, created to introduce students to the world of finance and dedicated to sustainable investments has achieved record breaking results this year, involving more than 14,600 participants from 91 countries worldwide. An equivalent value of 1.965 million dollars was generated through a total volume of 76,746 trading operations executed in the best ESG-rated companies, in order to achieve a positive impact for future generations.

Before entering the "live" competition, participants had the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and learn to invest in a sustainable way through the exclusive e-learning content made ad hoc by Reply, Banca Generali and MIP Politecnico di Milano: 8 sections of dedicated learning, 18 bite-sized tutorials and social content, was released during the 5 weeks leading up to the competition as part of the Test&Learn initiative.

At the end of the final round, which saw more than 2,200 transactions, each participant submitted a report providing evidence and explanations for the strategy adopted. This allowed the competition jury made up of Replyers who are experts in both ESG and investing to evaluate the performance of the 100 finalists who participated in the competition, considering the precise strategic decisions of their sustainable investments and nominate the winners

About the winners:

Guido Alberto Marsico, born in Naples in 1998, is currently enrolled in a master's degree in Economics, Management and Sustainability at the University of Suor Orsola Benincasa.

Vittorio Ranieri, born in Spoleto in 2000, is currently undertaking a bachelor's degree in International Economy and Finance at the Bocconi University.

Vincenzo D'Amborsio, born in Avellino in 1997, is currently enrolled in a master's degree in Economics and Finance at LUISS University.

Among the distinctive skills that enabled the winners to success was: the ability to read market contexts in the medium/long term and the identification of the best companies to invest in. These factors were complimented by an excellent ability to sum up and represent the strategies planned and undertaken.

"We are extremely satisfied with the great success of this new edition of the Reply Investment Challenge, not only for the numbers achieved and the strategies adopted by the participants, but also for the importance of the competition theme itself - explains Roberto Tognoni, Executive Partner of Reply, he adds the Challenges allow new generations of talents to experiment with innovative training dynamics and this year we had the opportunity to bring many young people closer to the theme of ESG investments "

"We are happy to have been alongside an educational and fun initiative such as the Investment Challenge which started with the ambitious goal of raising awareness among European students on the issue of sustainable portfolios. Objective fully achieved, given the great success and response among the thousands of subscribers comments Andrea Ragaini, Deputy General Manager of Banca Generali, who adds For us who were among the first to take the path of offering ESG investment solutions for families, by concretely measuring the results not only financially but also for the environment and social implications, seeing the determination of the young people in facing this challenge with sustainable "trade" strokes was truly gratifying. The hope is that initiatives like this will raise awareness that investments build the foundations for a new horizon. From this premise comes the commitment to financial education and the responsibility to speak differently and with new tools, including ESG investments "

Marco Giorgino, Senior Professor of Finance at MIP Politecnico di Milano: "Having participated in the Investment Challenge 21 as a partner of Banca Generali and Reply is a source of pride for MIP Politecnico di Milano. In fact, our School is aware of the strong need to educate and train financial operators who are attentive to the risk and sustainability of investments. This challenge made it possible to do it in an experiential way, thus confirming the attention that MIP places on projects based on advanced experiments like this one ".

"MainStreet Partners is very proud to have contributed to the success of this year's Reply Investment Challenge, which for the first time has combined the search for purely financial returns with aspects related to sustainability explains Rodolfo Fracassi, co-founder and Managing Director at MainStreet Partners, who adds We have made our proprietary ESG models available so that participants can get insights into ESG results before investing their capital. We are gratified to know that many students and particularly young people have taken part in this challenge, demonstrating that the new generations see sustainability as an essential factor in the choice of investments. MainStreet Partners has believed in sustainable investing since its inception in 2008 and seeing that today the entire financial industry is looking for solutions and tools to invest with ESG considerations makes us very confident about the role that our sector will have for a more sustainable future, for both society and our planet"

"For CFA Society Italy the training of young people and future talents in the world of finance is a fundamental value. Furthermore, sustainability is one of our basic principles and we are constantly focused on the ESG issues that are revolutionizing the sector. As an association we have always been at the forefront of promoting challenging initiatives like this and the edition of the Investment Challenge with the Reply Sustainable Investment Challenge 2021 has thrilled us" commented Giancarlo Sandrin, president of CFA Society Italy

The Investment Challenge is part of Reply's Challenges programme, which aims to target the most innovative trends in coding, creativity, cyber security and finance. Since 2018, more than 100,000 people have joined the Reply Challenges community, and last year more than 8,400 players took part in the first Reply Investment Challenge.

Reply

Reply [MTA, STAR: REY, ISIN: IT0005282865] specializes in the design and implementation of solutions based on new communication channels and digital media. As a network of highly specialised companies, Reply defines and develops business models enabled by the new models of big data, cloud computing, digital media and the internet of things. Reply delivers consulting, system integration and digital services to organisations across the telecom and media; industry and services; banking and insurance; and public sectors. www.reply.com

Banca Generali

Banca Generali is a leading private Italian bank. It specialises in financial planning and asset protection for clients, through its network of highly skilled private bankers. The company's strategy is based on four key elements: qualified advice from specialists in protecting family wealth and helping them plan for their future; a cutting-edge product portfolio with solutions tailored to personal needs; innovative wealth management services for looking after tangible and financial assets; and innovative tools that use technology to improve trust between advisor and client. The bank's mission highlights the importance of always having a long-term trusted advisor at the client's side, to build and take care of their life plan and projects. Listed on the Milan Stock Exchange since November 2006, and 50.1% controlled by the Assicurazioni Generali Group synonymous with over 180 years of international solidity and security the bank manages over 74.5 billion euros in assets on behalf of customers (figures as at 31 December 2020). With a widespread presence throughout Italy, it has 45 branches and 137 offices at the disposal of over 2050 financial advisors, and advanced digital contact service operations. In addition, its digital banking platform, www.bancagenerali.it, allows customers to access banking services and operations independently.

MainStreet Partners

MainStreet is the trusted ESG partner of top tier investors, providing a one stop shop for their sustainability requirements at portfolio level. Its clients are some of the most sophisticated and leading Wealth Managers, Asset Managers, Investment Banks, Insurances and Asset Owners in the financial industry. MainStreet Partners is based in London, regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and consists of two main divisions:

1- ESG Advisory offers solutions for creating ESG multi-asset and multi-manager portfolios with mutual funds, stocks and bonds. The company develops products with its partners which align to the highest standards of sustainability;

2- Portfolio Analytics provides a holistic approach to ESG data analysis such as: transparent and detailed Fund ESG Ratings, assessment of clients' portfolios to enhance their ESG profile and align them with the "green" regulation.

MIP Politecnico di Milano Graduate School of Business

MIP is the Graduate School of Business of the Politecnico di Milano, one of the best scientific and technological universities in the world, which for more than 40 years has been engaged in providing managerial training programmes for graduates, professionals, companies and institutions.

It has always stood out in the areas of innovation, digital transformation and sustainability. In 2014 it launched Italy's first Executive MBA in digital learning and today, digital training is an integral part of the entire educational portfolio. This commitment has resulted in MIP moving up in the world's leading rankings, being placed 5th in the QS Online MBA Rankings 2020 and 9th in the FT Online MBA Ranking 2020. The School pays particular attention to issues related to sustainability: it is the only European Business School among B Corp certified establishments, a recognition given to businesses which are characterised by their commitment to sustainable development and to building a more inclusive society. MIP constantly works alongside nationally and internationally renowned companies, building partnerships that make it possible to design training courses aimed at providing the tools needed to meet the challenges of today's markets. Internationalisation is another of MIP's characteristics: over 70 different nationalities are represented every day in its classrooms and offices.

The training on offer consists of more than 40 Master's degrees each year, including MBAs and Executive MBAs, a catalogue of over 200 Open programmes dedicated to executive profiles and various customised training courses for companies.

CFA Society Italy

CFA Society Italy is the reference association in Italy for professionals who have achieved the qualification of Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), the most important certification in the world of finance. The association, founded in 1999 as an affiliate of the CFA Institute, is the reference point in the area for CFA Charterholders, as well as promoting professional ethics and the value of the training and certification path in our country, providing a series of services for professionals and for those who are following the demanding course of exams. The entire activity of CFA Society Italy, like other affiliated associations in the world, is largely based on the voluntary commitment of the members. CFA Society Italy has more than 500 members.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005075/en/

Contacts:

Media contacts:

Reply

Fabio Zappelli

f.zappelli@reply.com

Tel. +39 02 535761

Aaron Miani

a.miani@reply.com

Tel. +44 (0)20 7730 6000

Banca Generali

Davide Pastore

davide.pastore@bancagenerali.it

Tel. +39 337 1115357

MainStreet Partners

Eleonora Cugini

cugini@mspartners.org

Tel. +44 (0)20 3761 9761

MIP Politecnico di Milano Graduate School of Business

Alessandro D'Angelo

adangelo@l45.it

+39 329 41392262

CFA Society Italy

Elena Giffoni

elena.giffoni@giffonipr.com

+39 347 2626681
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Datametrex AI Limited (TSXV: DM) (FSE: D4G) (OTCQB: DTMXF) (the "Company" or "Datametrex") is pleased to announce that it has received additional Purchase Orders (P.O.) for approximately $550,000 CAD from three divisions of LOTTE Group ("LOTTE"), the Incheon International Airport Corporation ("IIAC") and the Shinhan Financial Group ("Shinhan"), located in Seoul, South Korea.

Datametrex continues to grow Tech and AI businesses in South Korea working closely with LOTTE Data Communication Co. Ltd. as a preferred vendor. The agreements are with Lotte Hi Mart, Lotte Global Logis, Lotte Aluminum.

The new business with Shinhan is for JobMind in the AI-powered server automization. Jobmind is an efficient integrated management and operational solution for server batch jobs and is a single-screen processing of registering tasks, checking task results, and error handling for banking. The system prevents human error through automation and minimizes work impact by immediately checking and notifiying the result of of batch system errors and work errors.

"Datametrex continues to grow its core business. We are starting to see the reduction in cycle time for AI model optimization and adoption. With the company being flexible enough to provide our clients with whatever AI solution their needs require, we should see improved numbers from the AI division," stated Marshall Gunter, CEO of Datametrex.

About Datametrex

Datametrex AI Limited is a technology-focused company with exposure to Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Nexalogy (www.nexalogy.com). Datametrex's mission is to provide tools that support companies in fulfilling their operational goals, including Health and Safety, with predictive and preventive technologies. By working with companies to set a new standard of protocols through Artificial Intelligence and health diagnostics, Company provides progressive solutions to support the supply chain.

For additional information on Datametrex and other corporate information, please visit the Company's website at www.datametrex.com.

For further information, please contact:

Marshall Gunter - CEO

Phone: (514) 295-2300

Email: mgunter@datametrex.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor it's 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:

All statements included in this press release that address activities, events, or developments that the Company expects, believes, or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions made by the Company based on its experience, perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate in the circumstances. In addition, these statements involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections, and other forward-looking statements will prove inaccurate, certain of which are beyond the Company's control. In particular, there is no guarantee that the parties will successfully negotiate and enter into a definitive agreement on mutually acceptable terms or complete the Transaction in the manner contemplated herein, if at all, that the due diligence of any of the parties will be satisfactory, or that the parties will obtain any required board, shareholder, third-party and/or regulatory or other governmental approvals, if any. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company does not undertake to revise or update these forward-looking statements after the date hereof or revise them to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated events.

NON-IFRS FINANCIAL MEASUREMENTS

The Company has included non-IFRS performance measures throughout this press release, including (a) Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization ("EBITDA"); (b) Adjusted EBITDA which is EBITDA adjusted for the gain (loss) on change in fair value of the Company's investment properties and the gain (loss) on change in fair value of derivative instruments; and (c) Book Value per Share which is calculated as equity attributable to Datametrex AI Limited shareholders divided by total common shares outstanding at the end of the reporting period. These non-IFRS financial measurements do not have any standardized meaning as prescribed by International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Accordingly, these performance 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. Management uses EBITDA metrics to measure the profit trends of the business units and segments in the consolidated group since it eliminates the effects of financing decisions. Certain investors, analysts and others utilize these non-IFRS financial metrics in assessing the Company's financial performance. These non-IFRS financial measurements have not been presented as an alternative to net income or any other financial measure of performance prescribed by IFRS. Reconciliation of non-IFRS measures has been provided throughout the Company's MD&A, as applicable, filed under the Company's profile on www.SEDAR.COM.

###

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85426
Highly Sensitive and Accurate COVID-19 PCR Testing Kits Available to Increase Testing Availability

INCHINNAN, Scotland, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Thermo Fisher Scientific, the world leader in serving science, today announced that its TaqPath COVID-19 CE-IVD RT PCR Kit has been independently validated as meeting the performance characteristics for the Day 2 and Day 8 COVID-19 quarantine protocol testing required for international travellers arriving in the United Kingdom.

The United Kingdom has instituted quarantine rules for travellers entering the country that vary depending on the country of departure, but most people will be legally required to quarantine for ten days upon arrival. On days two and eight of their isolation, those travellers are obliged to take a PCR test to monitor for an active SARS-CoV-2 infection. Thermo Fisher's TaqPath kit is now permitted to be used by laboratories and clinics in that surveillance.

"Quarantine and surveillance programs such as the one in the United Kingdom are important for helping curb the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and its variants as countries begin to reopen," said Claire Wallace, vice president, commercial EMEA, life sciences at Thermo Fisher Scientific. "Thermo Fisher's strong supply chain of highly accurate COVID-19 PCR tests has been fundamental in the symptomatic testing for SARS-CoV-2 in the United Kingdom since the pandemic started and we are excited that independent validation for this additional use will help to increase testing availability as the international travel season begins."

The TaqPathCOVID-19 CE-IVD RT PCR Kit is a fast, highly sensitive multiplex diagnostic solution that contains both the assays and controls needed for the real-time PCR detection of RNA from the SARS-CoV-2 virus. In the independent validation study, the kit was shown to have clinical sensitivity of 100% with 95% Confidence Interval [97.9-100.0%] and a clinical specificity of 100% with 95% Confidence Interval [98.6-100.0%]. The limit of detection was determined as to be 250 copies/mL.

The TaqPathCOVID-19 CE-IVD RT PCR Kit received initial CE-IVD approval in March 2020 and is compatible with most widely used real-time PCR instruments. For more information on the platform, please visit: https://www.thermofisher.com/covid19ceivd

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.

Media Contacts

Mauricio Minotta

Director, Public Relations

Phone: +1 760-929-2456

E-mail: mauricio.minotta@thermofisher.com

Ariane Lovell

FINN Partners

Phone: +1 646-307-6317

E-mail: ariane.lovell@finnpartners.com
LONDON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- DeFinity, a decentralised finance (DeFi) marketplace for fiat foreign exchange, tokenised currencies, and central bank digital currencies (CBDC), engages with Montgomery Lake (UK) to enable a network of European family offices to implement a near real-time FX settlement ecosystem.

Montgomery's existing technology infrastructure and investment in over-achieving FinTech businesses provides for a well-suited launchpad for Europe's established family offices to take advantage of DeFinity's FX settlement ecosystem.

Manu Choudhary, Chief Executive Officer of DeFinity, says: "We are excited to have partnered with Montgomery Lake at this time. This partnership will enable a range of family offices to settle and clear their foreign exchange deals with us."

DeFinity is a layer-2 protocol and decentralised exchange solution that utilises existing blockchain frameworks, including WeOwn, Ethereum, Polkadot, Binance Smart Chain, and Cardano. With a focus on interoperability, the ambition is to create a more inclusive decentralised ecosystem that helps to bridge the old with the new.

Buy-side clients often face the issue of credit access wanting to trade on primary markets. The DeFinity solution enables clients and market makers to transact swiftly and efficiently, removing third-party intermediation fees.

I.J Piekarska, Managing Director of Montgomery Lake (UK), adds: "Our aim is to provide clients, shareholders, and stakeholders with long-term returns. We strive to connect our family office network with suitable technology solutions. DeFinity's ambitious plans for the future and their innovative approach to resolving some of the biggest issues in FX (the largest financial market) has attracted interest from our underlying investors."

The pilot project is to last twelve months during which a range of buy-side clients will participate in integrating its EMS and OMS systems with DeFinity, facilitating spot FX transactions. The collaboration aims to include NDFs and Forward contracts in the near future.

Florian Batliner-Staber, Chief Product Officer of DeFinity, concludes: "As part of our product development roadmap, we seek to engage in cross-border European regulatory conversations with central banks and authorities to create a harmonious and future-proof framework catering for transparency, financial inclusion, and market efficiencies that are currently being developed."

About DeFinity

DeFinity (definity.network) is a financial technology firm, specialised in traditional and digital FX, that is designing to operate a decentralised exchange, using smart contracts with a focus on real-time settlement. Harnessing the power of decentralisation within a strong regulatory framework, the firm is specifically geared towards the future support of central bank digital currencies and decentralised financial services for FX.

About Montgomery Lake (UK)

Montgomery Lake creates its own technology platforms to benefit the institutional market segment, including some of Europe's most established family offices. Our trading infrastructure, connectivity ecosystems, and market data distribution gateways allow for effortless access to tier one marketplaces. We acquire intellectual property through direct investments in over-performing European FinTech companies that use complementary technology to our own.

Press contact:

press@definity.network

+44 (0) 20 3290 6580
Contact:

Oak Fund Services (Guernsey) Limited

Company Administrator

Attn: Mark Woodall

Tel: +44 1481 723450

Eurocastle Announces Posting of 2021Annual General Meeting Notice

Guernsey. 27 May 2021 - Eurocastle Investment Limited (Euronext Amsterdam: ECT) ("Eurocastle" or the "Company") today announces that notice of its Annual General Meeting containing the full text of the proposed resolutions and a proxy statement has been mailed out to all holders on record as of Tuesday, 25 May 2021. In addition, the Company has posted the Annual General Meeting notice on its website under Periodic Reports and Shareholder Communications in the Investor Relations Section.

As previously announced, Eurocastle will hold its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, 16 June 2021, at the Company's registered office at 2:00 pm Guernsey time (3:00 pm CET). With effect from 23 April 2021, the States of Guernsey re-introduced country and regional classifications as part of its phased reopening of the Bailiwick's borders. Full details of the applicable rules are available here:

https://covid19.gov.gg/guidance/travel/general





ABOUT EUROCASTLE

Eurocastle Investment Limited.
LONDON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- IGNITE International Brands UK limited has signed an exclusive deal with Flawless Vape Labs (a subsidiary of Flawless U.K. Vape distribution) to manufacture a unique, custom blend of vape e- liquids, in 100 ml shortfill format. The range consists of five delicious flavours: Banana Ice, Mango, Watermelon, Blueberry ice, and Strawberry guava ice. This is IGNITE's first move into the UK's ever-growing e-liquid & vaping market.

Flawless vape labs was set up in 2017 with the view to create, bottle and label new and custom e-liquid blends for its customers. The lab is ISO9001 certified and has a state of the arts class 7 clean room with a capacity to do 40,000 bottles a day. IGNITE are also working with Flawless CBD (another subsidiary of Flawless UK Vape Distribution) who is their main UK distributor for CBD products throughout the UK and Europe.

IGNITE International Brands has a trademark and copyright license agreement with IGNITE International, a company founded by renowned Internet personality and entrepreneur Dan Bilzerian. Both companies are working together on a comprehensive marketing program that will include expertise from Bilzerian, who has a social media fan base of more than 45 million followers.

Flawless UK Vape Distribution is one of the largest UK distributors supplying vaping hardware, liquids and accessories to over 6,000 accounts across the UK and Europe.

For more information please visit www.ignite.co; www.flawlessvapelabs.com; www.flawlesscbd.co.uk; www.flawlessvapedistro.co.uk

Contact:

Callum Colley

01162344820

info@flawlessvapedistro.co.uk
An FIR had been registered by the Telangana Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) against Revanth Reddy, who was with the Telugu Desam at that time, and others. (Photo: Facebook @Revanth Reddy)

Hyderabad: Officials of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) filed a chargesheet against state Congress working president A. Revanth Reddy, the Malkajgiri MP, and others in the cash-for-vote scam of 2015 here on Thursday.

The others listed in the case were Sandra Venkata Veeraiah, MLA from Sathupally, self-proclaimed bishop Harry Sebastian, Rudra Sivakumar Uday Simha, Mathaiah Jerusalem and TD ex-MLC Vem Narendar Reddys son Vem Krishna Keerthan.

The ED has provisionally attached Rs 50 lakh in cash that had been allegedly offered by the accused to Elvis Stephenson, the Anglo-Indian nominated MLA, to vote in favour of the Telugu Desam (TD) candidate.

An FIR had been registered by the Telangana Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) against Revanth Reddy, who was with the Telugu Desam at that time, and others.

The ACB had laid a trap and recorded the payment of the bribe amount of Rs 50 lakh in cash to Stephenson. The ACB arrested the accused after they were caught in a trap and filed a chargesheet after the investigation.

The ED thereafter recorded the statements of the accused/witnesses including Revanth Reddy, Harry Sebastian and Rudra Uday Simha who were involved in the actual handing over of the bribe amount to Stephenson. They were also confronted with the available audio-visual recordings of the encounters.

Officials said the ED investigations have established that Revanth Reddy, Venkata Veeraiah and others had conspired to bribe Stephenson for securing his vote for Narender Reddy, the TD candidate in the Legislative Council election that was slated for June 1, 2015.

In pursuance of their conspiracy, the accused had contacted Stephenson and promised him a bribe of Rs 5 crore. Stephenson made a complaint to the ACB police and a 'trap' was laid. His meeting with the accused was secretly audio-video recorded.

A phone conversation between Stephenson and Telugu Desam chief N. Chandrababu Naidu was also verified by forensic experts and the voice was found to be that of Naidu.

As per the case, the accused persons met the complainant at his house on May 30, 2015, and made the bribe offer.

The next day, Revanth Reddy, Harry Sebastian and Rudra Uday Simha came to the house of Malcolm Taylor, a friend of Stephenson, to hand over the advance bribe amount of Rs 50 lakh in cash. This was when they were trapped by the ACB and taken into custody along with the seized cash, officials said.

The cash had been handed over to the accused by Krishna Keerthan, son of Narendra Reddy, to help his father win the election, officials said.

EDs investigation has established that the accused persons committed the scheduled offence as well as the offence of money laundering by dealing with the bribe money. ED thereon filed a prosecution complaint against the accused persons, with a prayer to hold trial against them for committing the offence of money laundering.
DGAP-News: AFFiRiS AG / Key word(s): Study results

AFFiRiS: Positive phase 1 results with immunotherapies targeting PCSK9 to treat hypercholesterolemia published by the European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology



27.05.2021 / 11:00

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.





AFFiRiS: Positive phase 1 results with immunotherapies targeting PCSK9 to treat hypercholesterolemia published by the European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology

Repeated immunisation with AFFITOPE (R) peptide active immunotherapy candidates AT04A and AT06A is safe, well-tolerated and induces a strong and long-lasting PCSK9-specific immune response

AT04A treatment leads to significant LDLc-lowering activity of up to 39% in highest antibody responders

Results further emphasise the value of the AFFITOPE(R) technology platform for potential first-in-class immunotherapies against a range of chronic non-communicable disease indications

Vienna, Austria, May 27, 2021 - AFFiRiS AG, a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel disease-modifying Specific Active Immunotherapies (SAITs), today announced that detailed results of a large phase 1 clinical study with two of its AFFITOPE(R) peptide vaccine candidates in the cardiovascular disease indication hypercholesterolemia were published in the peer-reviewed journal European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology (https://doi.org/10.1007/s00228-021-03149-2). The results of the phase 1 trial demonstrated that repeated immunization with AT04A or AT06A is well tolerated, safe and elicited a humoral immune response against the PCSK9 target epitope. The data also showed that immunization with AT04A resulted in a significant reduction of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc), with a reduction of up to 39% in the highest antibody responders.

One major risk factor for the development of atherosclerotic plaques, which can cause cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, is an increased level of LDLc. A pathway to reduce these risks involves targeting PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9), a protein which downregulates the LDL receptor and therefore reduces uptake of LDLc. Neutralizing PCSK9 by induction of specific antibodies, results in reduced LDLc levels via an increased density of the LDL receptor.

In the single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, 72 healthy subjects were randomized to receive three priming immunizations at weeks 0, 4, and 8, and one booster immunization at week 60 of either AT04A, AT06A, or placebo. Participants were evaluated over a period of 90 weeks to assess safety, immunogenicity, and LDLc-lowering activity of both SAIT products targeting PCSK9.

The results of this large phase 1 trial demonstrated that active immunization with both AT04A and AT06A is safe and well-tolerated with no treatment-related severe adverse events (SAEs). No subjects discontinued due to treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs). The most common related systemic TEAEs reported were fatigue, headache, and myalgia (75% in the AT06A group, 58% in the placebo group, 46% in the AT04A group) with the majority of events being mild. Injection-site reactions, which accounted for 63% of all TEAEs were transient and mostly of mild or moderate intensity. Both SAIT candidates induced a robust, long-lasting and boostable IgG antibody response towards the PCSK9 target epitope. Moreover, treatment with AT04A induced a group mean peak reduction in serum LDLc of 11.2% and 13.3% at weeks 20 and 70, respectively, when compared to placebo, with a maximal individual LDLc decrease of 39% at week 90 in the highest antibody responders.

"The safety profile and strong and sustained immune response elicited by the two peptide vaccine candidates AT04A and AT06A against the PCSK9 target epitope and in particular the LDLc-lowering activity of AT04A are encouraging results, supporting further development of the AT04 candidate," said Markus Zeitlinger, M.D., Associate Professor at the Medical University of Vienna and principal investigator of the study.

"We are particularly excited to see that treatment with AT04A leads to a significant reduction in LDLc, which is a major risk factor for the development of atherosclerotic plaques. These findings are also in line with data from our preclinical studies that showed a significant decrease in atherosclerosis development after active immunization with AT04A," commented Gunther Staffler, PhD, Chief Technology Officer of AFFiRiS AG. "These findings warrant selecting AT04 based immunotherapy for further clinical development in hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis."

"The results of the trial now demonstrate the value of our specific active immunization approach in a cardiovascular indication," added Noel Barrett, PhD, CEO of AFFiRiS AG. "This adds to the highly positive data obtained in a number of preclinical and clinical studies for chronic neurodegenerative disease indications and emphasizes the value of the AFFITOPE(R) technology platform for the immunotherapy of a variety of other chronic disease indications. Importantly, the demonstrated boostable antibody response demonstrated in this and other studies could pave the way for more patient-friendly therapeutic schedules and also circumvent high treatment costs by the stimulation of a self-produced, long-lasting immune reaction in indications with high medical need."



About AFFITOPE's(R) AT04A and AT06A:

Using its AFFITOME technology, AFFiRiS develops amino acid sequences that mimic the epitopes of self-proteins, which are modified by mutating the original amino acid sequence. These amino acid sequences, termed AFFITOPEs(R), are coupled to a carrier protein and are formulated with an adjuvant to further enhance the immune response. The AFFITOPE(R) formulation, the basis of SAIT, is administered to patients via a subcutaneous injection, which stimulates the generation of antibodies against the target proteins. AFFITOPE(R) AT04A and AT06A are AFFiRiS' novel immunotherapy candidates for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. AT04A and AT06A consist of 10 amino acid long peptide variants of the epitope PCSK9 aa 153-162, coupled to a carrier protein and adjuvanted with aluminum hydroxide (Alhydrogel(R) - 0.5 mg aluminum equivalent per dose) in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS).



About AFFiRiS AG:

AFFiRiS is a clinical-stage biotechnology company located in Vienna, Austria, with a vision of using the immune system to identify and target human proteins central to the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, based on its proprietary patented AFFITOME(R) technology. The Company's ultimate goal is to improve the lives of patients suffering from these diseases by providing disease-modifying specific immunotherapies. With its lead candidate, AFFITOPE(R) PD01, AFFiRiS is the leader in active immunotherapies for Parkinson's disease. For further information, please visit www.affiris.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.



Contact AFFiRiS AG:

Dr. Cornelia Kutzer

Communication and Business Development

E cornelia.kutzer@affiris.com

W www.affiris.com

Media contact:

MC Services

Julia Hofmann

P +49 89 210228 0

E affiris@mc-services.eu



About SAIT:

https://affiris.com/approach/overview-of-sait
SHANGHAI, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Music China, jointly organized by CMIA, Shanghai INTEX, and Messe Frankfurt, is scheduled on October 13-16, 2021 in Shanghai, China. As the world has been struggling with disruption due to the pandemic, expos have become even more important as a way to bring business back on track.

Music China, widely accepted as one of the world's largest tradeshows of musical instruments, is an effective platform for traders and dealers from over the world to gather together and look for potential business opportunities. Last year, Music China hosted more than 1,106 exhibitors from 15 countries and regions, drawing 81,761 attendees and 1.62 million viewers online. Apart from the exhibition, we organized nearly 20 online business match-making meetings and buyer's tours for over 40 buyer groups to help make the right connections between buyers and suppliers.

Embracing its 20th edition, Music China 2021 will continue to serve a critical part in the global industry, enhancing its role in the music business, education, and culture. This year, it is expected to cover an exhibiting area of 115,000 sqm, with 11 exhibition halls displaying different categories of musical instruments and products. In addition to the onsite expo, the digital exhibition will also be addressed so as to provide convenience for those who are unable to come in person due to the pandemic. It is undoubtedly a must-attend show for exhibitors to seek business opportunities, as well as for audiences to acquire an insight into the industry.

In the post-pandemic era, brands are looking at efficient ways to tackle the dilemma and maintain business growth. The show has become a proven way to break the deadlock. Global brands confirming to attend Music China 2021 include Casio, Dunhuang, Fender, Fengling, GEWA, Gibson, Hsinghai, Jinyin, JOYO, Kawai, LAVA, NUX, Parsons, Pearl River, Pioneer DJ, Samick, Steinway, Tama, and Yamaha.

As the world is still facing disruption caused by the pandemic, Music China will keep pace with all exhibitors, shouldering the responsibility to generate business opportunities for brands and traders on this functional platform, contributing to the prosperity of the global music industry.

For more information about Music China, please visit our website: www.musicchina-expo.com. We look forward to seeing you this autumn.

Contact:

Miss Sylvia Xue

+86-21-6295-3159

xueaoshuang@shanghai-intex.com
BERLIN and CAIRO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- ProBioGen and Minapharm Pharmaceuticals announce the incorporation of ProBioGen's subsidiary "MiGenTra" with headquarters in Berlin and access to a site in Cairo, which will house its principal manufacturing plant. The formation of MiGenTra accelerates ProBioGen's 2030 growth roadmap and showcases that further growth is not limited to the ongoing capacity increase but reveals one of several significant steps in the diversification of ProBioGen's business.

MiGenTra will enhance the accessibility to critical healthcare transforming medicines at affordable prices for Egypt, the Middle East and Africa (MEA) while simultaneously strengthening regional and local manufacturing capacities. The company will respond to urgent unmet medical needs, supporting efforts by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

MiGenTra combines the scientific and manufacturing expertise from both contributing companies, ProBioGen and Minapharm Pharmaceuticals. It is established for product development and commercialization in the field of Biosimilars, Cell and Gene Therapies (CGT) and vaccines, capitalizing on the strong development capabilities of ProBioGen and the excellent market position of Minapharm in the region.

"Healthcare is not a privilege but a human right", says Lutz Hilbrich, MD MBA and Chief Executive Officer of ProBioGen. He continues: "By creating MiGenTra we exemplify our commitment to overcome inequalities. ProBioGen has been for a while on a growth path. With the formation of MiGenTra we aim to further accelerate our growth while transforming the lives of millions in urgent medical need through state of the art medicines at affordable prices. I am honored to take on the CEO position for this newly built entity. We are committed to contributing to the transformational change across healthcare in the African continent."

Wafik Bardissi, PhD, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Minapharm Pharmaceuticals added: "MiGenTra marks a starting point of practice to consolidate an international platform of intelligent biopharmaceutical technologies with a longstanding regional process development and manufacturing expertise in the Middle East and Africa. Minapharm has demonstrated the feasibility of aligning economic interests and equality in access to affordable complex genetically engineered medicines. The COVID-19 pandemic has once again exposed global inequalities the world has ignored for too long. MiGenTra pledges to ensure equitable access to essential medicines, thereby contributing to the Global Health Initiative."

About MiGenTra

MiGenTra is a healthcare transforming medicines company, and a subsidiary of ProBioGen, with a focus on high quality medicines at affordable prices.

The company allows for product development in the field of Biosimilars, Cell- and Gene Therapies and vaccines especially for Egypt, the Middle East and Africa, and will therefore provide access to key healthcare transforming medicines, while strengthening regional and local manufacturing capacity in the region.

MiGenTra combines scientific and manufacturing subject matter expertise from both contributing companies, ProBioGen and Minapharm Pharmaceuticals and is headquartered in Berlin, Germany and has access to a site in Cairo, Egypt, where the main manufacturing plant is located.

About ProBioGen

ProBioGen is a specialist in the development and manufacturing of complex therapeutic proteins.

The combination of ProBioGen's CHO.RiGHT expression platform and state-of-the-art process development platforms, together with intelligent and innovative product-specific technologies yield biologics with optimized properties.

Rapid and integrated cell line and process development, comprehensive analytical development and robust GMP manufacturing is performed by a highly skilled and experienced team. All services and technologies are embedded in a total quality management system to assure compliance with international ISO and GMP standards (EMA/FDA).

ProBioGen has been operational for more than 25 years. At two locations in Berlin, more than 200 employees contribute to the creation of new therapies in medicine and groundbreaking innovations worldwide through their creative and meticulous work.



About Minapharm

Minapharm Pharmaceuticals is a leading pharmaceutical company in Egypt and the Middle East and the premier biopharmaceutical company in Africa with over 20 years of experience in cellular and bioprocess engineering. Headquartered in Cairo, Minapharm commercializes over 100 life-saving and life-enhancing products ranging from small molecules to complex genetically-engineered proteins, with an impressive immunotherapy pipeline. Together with its wholly owned Berlin-based subsidiary, ProBioGen AG, Minapharm has established an integrated business model making it to-date the only gene-to-market biopharmaceutical company in the region. Minapharm employs a collective workforce of over 1400 and is listed on the Cairo and Alexandria stock exchange (Symbol: MIPH).

Contact ProBioGen: Contact MiGenTra: Contact Minapharm: Dr. Gabriele Schneider Dr. Lutz Hilbrich Samiha Sokar Chief Business Officer Chief Executive Officer Head of Immuno-oncology Business Unit cmo@probiogen.de info@migentra.com samiha.sokar@minapharm.com +49 (0)30 3229 35 100 +49 (0)30 5771 4380 +202 241 431 70 www.probiogen.de www.migentra.com www.minapharm.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1519171/Production_Facility.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1519172/MiGenTra_Logo.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1519170/ProBioGen_Logo.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1492894/Minapharm_Pharmaceuticals_Logo.jpg
The auction is intended at providing the missing capacity resulting from the closure of the Andorra thermal power plant in Teruel.From pv magazine Spain Spain's Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (Miteco), through the Institute for the Just Transition, has approved the bidding terms of an auction that will grant grid access capacity at the node of Mudejar, which is affected by the closure of the Andorra thermal power plant in Teruel operated by Spanish energy company Endesa, a unit of Italian power utility Enel. The aim of granting the grid access capacity is ...

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.
Scantinel, a leading LiDAR startup, which develops and produces FMCW LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors for the next-generation LiDAR systems for autonomous vehicles (AV) has received growth financing through Scania Growth Capital.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005414/en/

LiDAR Technology (Graphics: Business Wire)

LiDAR is considered the key technology for safety of autonomous vehicles. Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) LiDAR a bulky abbreviation for a disruptive technology will help autonomous driving to achieve a breakthrough and, according to experts, will displace the currently used Time of Light (TOF) LiDAR systems from the market.

"The LiDAR market is further consolidating and it's becoming clearer which technologies and startups will eventually make it to mass production. Here at ZEISS, we are proud that Scantinel is among the ones that succeed in attracting new investors, "explains Gerrit Schulte, Head of ZEISS Ventures.

Scantinel offers unique FMCW LiDAR technology that delivers a new dimension of data to make cars safer and, eventually, autonomous. This new technology makes it possible to measure distances to objects in the plus-300-meter range with a high level of integration, solid state scanning and competitive pricing, which is key for autonomous vehicles.

"We see a great benefit from having Scania's Venture Capital fund as an investor and are pleased to welcome Scania Growth Capital on board to support us as we continue to progress," says Scantinel CTO Co-founder Andy Zott.

Thanks to this Series-A funding, Scantinel will be able to further develop and commercialize its leading FMCW LiDAR technology. "The investment from Scania Growth Capital enables us to commercially implement this technology in close cooperation with our customers and technology partners," says Scantinel Commercial Managing Director Dr. Michael Richter.

"The future safety of autonomous vehicles is based on FMCW LiDAR sensor technology. We see Scantinel Photonics as the technology leader in its field and we are excited to be part of the growth journey," says Christian Zeuchner, Partner at the management company Scania Growth Capital.

About Scantinel Photonics GmbH

Founded in 2019 and based in Ulm, Germany, Scantinel Photonics GmbH is a leading FMCW LiDAR company offering next-generation LiDAR technology for autonomous vehicles. Scantinel is backed by ZEISS Ventures and Scania Growth Capital. For more information, visit www.scantinel.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005414/en/

Contacts:

Scantinel Photonics GmbH

Dr. Michael Richter

Commercial Managing Director

Hirschstrae 4

89073 Ulm,Germany

Michael.Richter@scantinel.com

www.scantinel.com

Lucy Turpin Communications

Birgit Fuchs-Laine/Thomas Hahnel

Prinzregentenstr. 89

81675 Munchen

+ 49 (0) 89 41 77 61 10

scantinel@lucyturpin.com

www.lucyturpin.com
Paris, May 27, 2021 - Atos and Thales announce the creation of Athea, a joint venture that will develop a sovereign big data and artificial intelligence platform for public and private sector players in the defence, intelligence and internal state security communities. Athea will draw on the experience gained by both companies from the demonstration phase of the ARTEMIS programme, the big data platform of the French Ministry of Armed Forces. The contract to optimise and prepare the full-scale roll-out of the ARTEMIS platform was also awarded jointly to the two leaders by the French Defense Procurement Agency on April 30, 2021. The new joint venture will initially serve the French market before addressing European requirements at a later date.

With the exponential rise in the number of sources of information, and increased pressure to respond more quickly to potential issues, State agencies need to manage ever-greater volumes of heterogeneous data and accelerate the development of new AI applications where security and sovereignty are key. Athea will create a solution to securely handle sensitive data on a nationwide scale and support the implementation of that solution within government programmes. The new entity will also provide expert appraisal, consulting, training and other services.

The joint venture will pool the companies' investments, expertise and experience to respond quickly and efficiently to demand for innovation. Athea will work with an ecosystem of large companies, SMEs, start-ups and research institutes specialising in big data and artificial intelligence. In conjunction with the recently created Defense Digital Agency, the joint entity will also provide secure solutions and open and modular technological building blocks, which encourage collaboration and stimulate the industrial and sovereign ecosystem, in order to support the development of trusted applications.

"This joint venture between Thales and Atos illustrates the commitment of both our companies to supporting the digital transformation of our customers by providing a secure and innovative solution based on French technology to process huge volumes of heterogeneous data. Together, we will capitalise on our respective areas of expertise to provide best-in-class big data and artificial intelligence solutions." said Marc Darmon, Executive Vice President, Secure Communications and Information Systems, Thales.

"Sensitive data capabilities have become a sovereignty issue for State agencies. By combining the expertise of two major players in defence and digital technologies with the flexibility of a dedicated entity, Athea will generate huge potential for innovation, and stimulate the industrial and defence ecosystem, including innovative start-ups, to meet the needs of government agencies and other stakeholders in the sector. This new joint venture between Atos and Thales is an opportunity to combine a comprehensive understanding of the defence and security issues faced by European States with access to the latest innovations in big data and artificial intelligence." said Pierre Barnabe, Senior Executive Vice President, Big Data and Cybersecurity, Atos.

***

About Atos

Atos is a global leader in digital transformation with 105,000 employees and annual revenue of over  11 billion. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high performance computing, the Group provides tailored end-to-end solutions for all industries in 71 countries. A pioneer in decarbonization services and products, Atos is committed to a secure and decarbonized digital for its clients. Atos operates under the brands Atos and Atos|Syntel. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea), listed on the CAC40 Paris stock index.

The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

Atos press contact

Lucie Duchateau | lucie.duchateau@atos.net | +33 (0)7 62 85 35 10

About Thales

Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global high technology leader investing in digital and "deep tech" innovations - connectivity, big data, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and quantum technology - to build a future we can all trust, which is vital to the development of our societies. The company provides solutions, services and products that help its customers -businesses, organisations and states - in the defence, aeronautics, space, transportation and digital identity and security markets to fulfil their critical missions, by placing humans at the heart of the decision-making process.

Thales has 81,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2020, Thales generated sales of 17 billion.

Thales press contact

Constance Arnoux | constance.arnoux@thalesgroup.com | +33 (0)6 89 41 64 05

Attachment
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Oil prices fell on Thursday as investors fretted over Indian energy demand and the impact of Iranian oil on supply. Brent crude futures for Aug settlement dropped 0.8 percent to $68.15 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures for July delivery were down 0.8 percent at $65.66. Traders focused on the Iranian nuclear talks being held in Vienna aimed to revive a nuclear accord. Talks between Iran and world powers resumed on Tuesday for reviving the 2015 nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. U.S. top negotiator Rob Malley said on Tuesday that the latest round of talks was constructive and saw meaningful progress. But much work still needed to be done. The increase of supply from Iran is expected to be gradual, if sanctions on the country are lifted. The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies are set to meet on June 1 to discuss the state of the market and their production policy. Investors also remain concerned about demand in India as COVID-19 runs rampant across the country. Transport fuel demand is likely to grow at a slower than expected pace this year amid uncertainties around lockdowns and the pace of vaccinations. 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.
Earns 58 top rankings and 34 leading positions in four peer groups in The Planning Survey 21

OneStream Software, a leader in corporate performance management (CPM) solutions for the world's leading enterprises, announced it achieved exceptional results in the annual Planning Survey from the Business Application Research Center (BARC) in its four peer groups; Financial Performance Management Products, Global Vendors, Large/Enterprise-Wide Implementations and Performance Management Specialists.

OneStream earned 58 top rankings and 34 leading positions in its four peer groups. The company was measured by several different KPIs including Business Benefits, Project Success, Business Value, Price to Value, Vendor Support, Implementer Support, Product Satisfaction, Data Integration and Customer Experience.

Additionally, the company received a 100 percent recommendation score from all surveyed users up from 97 percent in 2020.

"OneStream's performance in this year's Planning Survey reflects the vendor's dedication and mission to providing 100% customer success. OneStream's unified, extensible platform and data model support a wide range of financial and operational planning use cases and do so at scale and across the enterprise. This combination of financial control and operational relevance provides organizations with the opportunity to unify planning processes within a single platform and user experience which is increasingly critical as Finance leaders adapt to rapid market-changes," said Dr. Christian Fuchs, Senior Vice-President and Head of Data Analytics Research at BARC.

Conducted from November 2020 to February 2021, The Planning Survey 21 compiled responses from 1,422 individuals analyzing 21 products or groups of products. The survey examines user feedback on planning product selection and usage across 29 criteria (KPIs) including Business Benefits, Project Success, Business Value, Recommendation, Customer Satisfaction, Customer Experience, Planning Functionality and Competitiveness.

"OneStream is honored to receive top marks again this year in The BARC Planning Survey," said Tom Shea, CEO of OneStream. "Finance leaders continue to face unprecedented business challenges, and we're committed to helping them navigate this uncertainty with our best-in-class technology. This recognition is a true testament to the market opportunity, continued demand for our solution and dedication to 100% customer success."

See the OneStream Highlights report here.

About BARC

The Business Application Research Center (BARC) is an industry analyst and consulting firm for business software with a focus on Business Intelligence/Analytics, Data Management, Enterprise Content Management (ECM), Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP).

BARC analysts have been supporting companies in strategy, organization, architecture and software evaluations for more than 20 years. For more information, visit www.barc-research.com

About The Planning Survey 21

The Planning Survey 21 is based on findings from the world's largest and most comprehensive survey of planning software users, conducted from November 2020 to February 2021. In total, 1,422 people responded to the survey with 1,151 answering a series of detailed questions about their use of a named product. Altogether, 21 products (or groups of products) are analyzed in detail.

For more information on the survey, visit The BI Survey website.

About OneStream Software

OneStream Software provides a market-leading intelligent finance platform that reduces the complexity of financial operations. OneStream unleashes the power of finance by unifying corporate performance management (CPM) processes such as planning, financial close consolidation, reporting and analytics through a single, extensible solution. We empower the enterprise with financial and operational insights to support faster and more informed decision-making. All in a cloud platform designed to continually evolve and scale with your organization.

OneStream is an independent software company backed by private equity investors KKR, D1 Capital Partners, Tiger Global and IGSB. With over 700 customers, 200 implementation partners and over 800 employees our primary mission is to deliver 100% customer success, which we've done successfully since our inception. To learn more visit www.onestreamsoftware.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005177/en/

Contacts:

OneStream Software

PAN Communications

Kristen Hyle

onestream@pancomm.com
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.
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - LEUCROTTA EXPLORATION INC. (TSXV: LXE) ("Leucrotta" or the "Company") is pleased to announce its financial and operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2021. All dollar figures are Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.

HIGHLIGHTS

Closed a bought-deal public financing issuing 45.2 million units of the Company ("Units") at a price of $0.73 per Unit for gross proceeds of $33.0 million. Each Unit is comprised of one common share of the Company and 0.5 common share purchase warrant of the Company. Each whole common share purchase warrant entitles the holder to purchase one common share at an exercise price of $1.00 per common share expiring on March 31, 2023.

Subsequent to March 31, 2021, the Company disposed of certain natural gas assets located in Doe, BC for gross proceeds of $30.0 million. The disposed assets were comprised of non-strategic lands and four wells and have been transferred to assets held for sale at March 31, 2021. The disposition closed April 1, 2021.

Increased adjusted funds flow (1) by 399% to $3.8 million in Q1 2021 from $0.8 million in Q1 2020.

March 31, 2021 adjusted working capital (2) balance of $58.0 million.

FINANCIAL RESULTS Three Months Ended March 31 ($000s, except per share amounts) 2021 2020 % Change Oil and natural gas sales 10,474 5,791 81 Cash flow from operating activities 4,919 1,405 250 Per share - basic and diluted 0.02 0.01 100 Adjusted funds flow (1) 3,790 760 399 Per share - basic and diluted 0.02 - 100 Net earnings (loss) 1,167 (89,444) (101) Per share - basic and diluted 0.01 (0.45) (102) Capital expenditures 489 12,012 (96) Adjusted working capital (deficiency) (1) 58,028 (5,223) (1,211) Common shares outstanding (000s) Weighted average - basic 201,028 200,525 - Weighted average - diluted 201,062 200,525 - End of period - basic 245,731 200,525 23 End of period - fully diluted 285,746 226,392 26

(1) See "Non-GAAP Measures" section.





OPERATING RESULTS (1) Three Months Ended March 31 2021 2020 % Change Daily production Oil and NGLs (bbls/d) 519 862 (40) Natural gas (mcf/d) 13,053 12,354 6 Oil equivalent (boe/d) 2,695 2,921 (8) Oil and natural gas sales Oil and NGLs ($/bbl) 62.85 39.02 61 Natural gas ($/mcf) 6.42 2.43 164 Oil equivalent ($/boe) 43.19 21.78 98 Royalties Oil and NGLs ($/bbl) 11.62 0.87 1,236 Natural gas ($/mcf) 0.53 0.01 5,200 Oil equivalent ($/boe) 4.81 0.31 1,452 Net operating expenses (2) Oil and NGLs ($/bbl) 9.39 9.95 (6) Natural gas ($/mcf) 0.88 0.87 1 Oil equivalent ($/boe) 6.07 6.60 (8) Transportation and marketing expenses Oil and NGLs ($/bbl) 0.68 1.46 (53) Natural gas ($/mcf) 1.35 1.78 (24) Oil equivalent ($/boe) 6.66 7.97 (16) Operating netback (2) Oil and NGLs ($/bbl) 41.16 26.74 54 Natural gas ($/mcf) 3.66 (0.23) (1,691) Oil equivalent ($/boe) 25.65 6.90 272 Depletion and depreciation ($/boe) (8.52) (8.40) 1 Asset impairment ($/boe) - (330.59) (100) General and administrative expenses ($/boe) (6.31) (3.97) 59 Share based compensation ($/boe) (1.56) (0.14) 1,014 Finance expense ($/boe) (0.70) (0.26) 169 Realized loss on risk management contracts ($/boe) (1.17) - 100 Unrealized loss on risk management contracts ($/boe) (2.58) - 100 Net earnings (loss) ($/boe) 4.81 (336.46) (101)

(1) See "Frequently Recurring Terms" section.

(2) See "Non-GAAP Measures" section.

Selected financial and operational information outlined in this news release should be read in conjunction with Leucrotta's unaudited condensed interim financial statements and related Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") for the three months ended March 31, 2021, which are available for review under the Company's profile on The System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval ("SEDAR") at www.sedar.com .

UPDATE

Operations

With the property sale and financing recently closed (noted below), Leucrotta will now be focused on executing the Mica Project.(1) Planning for the 2021 test pad and the 2022 facility expansion has been underway for some time and field operations will commence shortly. The drilling and completion of the 3-well test pad at Mica, that will utilize longer laterals and materially greater frac intensity, will commence in mid-July. Leucrotta is excited to start the initial phase of the Mica Project.

Financial

As a result of the financing and property disposition noted below, Leucrotta has $58 million of working capital and no debt.

On March 31, 2021, the Company closed a bought-deal public financing through a syndicate of underwriters. The Company issued 45.2 million Units at a price of $0.73 per Unit for gross proceeds of $33.0 million. A Unit is comprised of one common share of the Company and 0.5 common share purchase warrant of the Company. Each whole common share purchase warrant entitles the holder to purchase one common share at an exercise price of $1.00 per common share expiring on March 31, 2023. The non-brokered private placement offering of 2.0 million flow-through units at $0.75 per unit previously announced by the Company was not taken up and the Company's conditional approval with the TSX Venture Exchange will expire on May 29, 2021. The Company intends to consider the private placement at a future date.

New credit facility

Subsequent to March 31, 2021, the Company entered into a credit agreement with a new lender comprised of a $10.0 million revolving operating demand loan credit facility. The new credit agreement fully replaced the previous $6.0 million credit facility.

Property sale

On April 1, 2021, the Company disposed of natural gas assets located in Doe, BC for gross proceeds of $30.0 million as previously released. The disposed assets were comprised of 10.25 sections of non-strategic land with three wells producing approximately 375 boe/d and one shut-in well. The disposed assets have been transferred to assets held for sale at March 31, 2021.

( 1) Full details of the Mica Project are more fully described in the Company's news release dated March 15, 2021 available under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

FREQUENTLY RECURRING TERMS

The Company uses the following frequently recurring industry terms in this news release: "bbls" refers to barrels, "mcf" refers to thousand cubic feet, and "boe" refers to barrel of oil equivalent. Disclosure provided herein in respect of a boe may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A boe conversion rate of six thousand cubic feet of natural gas to one barrel of oil equivalent has been used for the calculation of boe amounts in this news release. This boe conversion rate is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead.

NON-GAAP MEASURES

This news release refers to certain financial measures that are not determined in accordance with IFRS (or "GAAP"). This news release contains the terms "adjusted funds flow", "adjusted funds flow per share", "adjusted working capital (deficiency)", "operating netback" and "net operating expenses" which do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. The Company uses these measures to help evaluate its performance.

Management uses adjusted funds flow to analyze performance and considers it a key measure as it demonstrates the Company's ability to generate the cash necessary to fund future capital investments and abandonment obligations and to repay debt, if any. Adjusted funds flow is a non-GAAP measure and has been defined by the Company as cash flow from operating activities excluding the change in non-cash working capital related to operating activities and expenditures on decommissioning obligations. The Company also presents adjusted funds flow per share whereby amounts per share are calculated using weighted average shares outstanding, consistent with the calculation of net earnings (loss) per share. Adjusted funds flow is reconciled from cash flow from operating activities under the heading "Cash Flow from Operations and Adjusted Funds Flow" in the Company's MD&A for the three months ended March 31, 2021, which is available under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com .

Management uses adjusted working capital (deficiency) as a measure to assess the Company's financial position. Adjusted working capital (deficiency) includes current assets less current liabilities excluding the effects of any current portion of risk management contracts.

Management considers operating netback an important measure as it demonstrates its profitability relative to current commodity prices. Operating netback, which is calculated as average unit sales price less royalties, net operating expenses, and transportation and marketing expenses, represents the cash margin for every barrel of oil equivalent sold. Operating netback per boe is reconciled to net earnings (loss) per boe under the heading "Operating Netback".

Net operating expenses is calculated as operating expenses less processing revenues. Management uses net operating expenses to determine the current periods' cash cost of operating expenses less processing revenue and net operating expenses per boe is used to measure operating efficiency on a comparative basis. The measure approximates the Company's operating expenses relative to its produced volumes by excluding third party operating costs.

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The use of any of the words "expect", "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "may", "will", "should", "believe", "intends", "forecast", "plans", "guidance" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements or information.

More particularly and without limitation, this news release contains forward-looking statements and information relating to the Company's risk management program, oil, NGLs, and natural gas production, capital programs, and debt. The forward-looking statements and information are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the Company, including expectations and assumptions relating to prevailing commodity prices and exchange rates, applicable royalty rates and tax laws, future well production rates, the performance of existing wells, the success of drilling new wells, the availability of capital to undertake planned activities, and the availability and cost of labour and services.

Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements and information are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements and information address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. These include, but are not limited to, the risks associated with the oil and gas industry in general such as operational risks in development, exploration and production, delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures, the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to production rates, costs, and expenses, commodity price and exchange rate fluctuations, marketing and transportation, environmental risks, competition, the ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources and changes in tax, royalty, and environmental legislation. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this document are made as of the date hereof for the purpose of providing the readers with the Company's expectations for the coming year. The forward-looking statements and information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws.

Leucrotta is an oil and natural gas company, actively engaged in the acquisition, development, exploration, and production of oil and natural gas reserves in northeastern British Columbia, Canada.

Further Information

For additional information, please contact:

Leucrotta Exploration Inc.

Suite 700, 639 - 5th Avenue SW

Calgary, Alberta T2P 0M9

Phone: (403) 705-4525

www.leucrotta.ca

Mr. Robert J. Zakresky

President and Chief Executive Officer

Mr. Nolan Chicoine

Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85395
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Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Zedcor Inc. (TSXV: ZDC) (the "Company" or "Zedcor") today announced it has entered into an agreement with a privately held company, controlled and owned by Maynbridge Capital Inc., to sell the assets of the Company's Rentals segment (the Rentals Assets") for cash proceeds of $11.3 million (the "Transaction").

Transaction Details:

In addition to the $11.3 million of cash proceeds, Zedcor will receive:

a bonus payment of 35% for each dollar of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") above an annual threshold summarized in the table below which will be calculated on the first, second, and third anniversary dates of the closing of the transaction;





a management fee in the amount of $25,000 per month for up to 36 months in exchange for the use of the Zedcor brand and assistance with management of the Rentals Assets pursuant to a management services agreement; and





an additional $25,000 per month for the first 20 months for use of certain Zedcor facilities.

Annual Bonus Payment Thresholds:

Anniversary Date Threshold First anniversary date of closing $3,003,585 Second anniversary date of closing $3,241,853 Third anniversary date of closing $3,267,691

This sale of the Rentals Assets, which is not subject to any financial conditions, will allow Zedcor to reduce the leverage on its balance sheet, deploy additional capital and focus on expanding its Security & Surveillance business which is seeing increased revenues and customer demand. "The cash proceeds from the sale will be used to reduce high interest indebtedness and put the Company's leverage ratio below two times debt to EBITDA which is in line with conventional lending requirements. It will also provide Zedcor with greater flexibility to expand our Security & Surveillance business across North America," said Todd Ziniuk, President and CEO.

The Company's Board of Directors formed a special committee of independent directors (the "Special Committee") to:

review and evaluate the terms of the Transaction;





obtain and supervise the preparation of a fairness opinion; and





to make a recommendation to the Company's Board of Directors in respect of the Transaction.

The Special Committee retained Paradigm Capital Inc. to provide an opinion as to the fairness of the consideration being offered under the Transaction from a financial point of view.

Based on the fairness opinion received, along with other work completed by the Special Committee, the Special Committee unanimously recommended to the Company's Board of Directors that the Transaction be approved. The voting members of the Company's Board of Directors (with interested director Dean Shillington abstaining), after receiving the unanimous recommendation of the Special Committee, have unanimously determined that the consideration to be received for the Rentals Assets is fair, from a financial point of view, and that it is in the best interests of Zedcor and have unanimously approved the Transaction and have resolved to recommend that the shareholders of Zedcor approve the Transaction.

The Transaction, which is expected to close on or around June 30, 2021, is subject to approval by the TSX Venture Exchange, approval of a majority of the Company's disinterested shareholders, which is anticipated to be received via written consent, and other customary closing conditions. The Company's management and Board of Directors, other than Mr. Shillington, currently hold 30.24% of outstanding common shares and have committed as shareholders to approve the Transaction.

About Zedcor Inc.

Zedcor is a Canadian public corporation and parent company to Zedcor Security Solutions Corp. ("Zedcor Security Solutions"). Zedcor Security Solutions is engaged in the providing security & surveillance services, and rental of surface equipment & accommodations in Western Canada. The Company trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "ZDC". Zedcor Security Solutions operates with two business segments: Security & Surveillance and Rentals (formerly Energy Services).

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements included or incorporated by reference in this press release constitute forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including the receipt of additional payments in connection with the Transaction, the Transaction providing the Company with greater flexibility to expand its Security & Surveillance business across North America, the receipt of written consent of the Transaction by of a majority of disinterested shareholders and the expected closing date of the Transaction. Forward-looking statements or information may contain statements with the words "anticipate", "believe", "expect", "plan", "intend", "estimate", "propose", "budget", "should", "project", "would have realized', "may have been" or similar words suggesting future outcomes or expectations. Although the Company believes that the expectations implied in such forward-looking statements or information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these forward-looking statements because the Company can give no assurance that such statements will prove to be correct. Forward-looking information involves risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including headwinds from the COVID-19 pandemic and economic turmoil, customer delays and the availability of growth prospects. Additional information regarding some of these risks, uncertainties and other factors may be found in the Company's management's discussion and analysis for the three months ended March 31, 2021, and other documents available on the Company's profile at www.sedar.com. Forward-looking statements or information are based on current expectations, estimates and projections that involve a number of assumptions about the future and uncertainties. These assumptions include the receipt of TSXV and shareholder approvals of the Transaction and the closing of the Transaction and the ability of the Company to expand its Security & Surveillance business. Although management believes these assumptions are reasonable, there can be no assurance that they will prove to be correct, and actual results will differ materially from those anticipated. For this purpose, any statements herein that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements or information contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and the Company assumes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new contrary information, future events or any other reason, unless it is required by any applicable securities laws. The forward-looking statements or information contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

Certain information set out herein may be considered as "financial outlook" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The purpose of this financial outlook is to provide readers with disclosure regarding Zedcor's reasonable expectations as to the anticipated results of its proposed business activities for the periods indicated. Readers are cautioned that the financial outlook may not be appropriate for other purposes.

This press release makes reference to certain non-GAAP measures. These measures are not recognized measures under International Financial Report Standards ("IFRS"), do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS. Investors are cautioned that EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA are not acceptable alternatives to net income, a measurement of liquidity, or comparable measures as determined in accordance with IFRS.

EBITDA refers to net income before finance costs, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as EBITDA before costs associated with severance, gains and losses on sale of equipment and stock-based compensation. These measures do not have a standardized definition prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar captioned terms presented by other issuers.

Management believes that EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are useful measures of performance as they eliminate non-recurring items and the impact of finance and tax structure variables that exist between entities. For further information regarding non-GAAP measures used by the Company, please refer to the management's discussion and analysis of the Company, copies of which are available on the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.

For further information contact:

Todd Ziniuk

Chief Executive Officer

P: (403) 930-5430

E: tziniuk@zedcor.ca

Amin Ladha

Chief Financial Officer

P: (403) 930-5430

E: aladha@zedcor.ca

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.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85421
State-of-the-art Grimbergen Abbey Brewery brings together almost 900 years of brewing tradition with the best of new-world brewing techniques

GRIMBERGEN, Belgium, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Grimbergen, known for its delicious and refreshing Belgian-style beers, opens the doors to the future of Belgian beer as it unveils its innovative new brewery inside the famous Grimbergen Abbey near Brussels, Belgium.

The state-of-the-art Grimbergen Abbey Brewery will bring brewing back to where it all started when the abbey was founded nearly 900 years ago. It's also the first time in 200 years that beers have been brewed inside the walls of the abbey, with beer-making ceasing after the building was destroyed during the French Revolution.

The Abbey Brewery will serve as an innovation hub, combining brewing traditions drawn from the ancient books of the abbey's library with new and innovative techniques to craft unique limited-edition batches of exceptional premium beers.

To celebrate, Grimbergen has released three exciting new brews - Grimbergen Magnum Opus Brut Beer, Grimbergen Ignis Quadruple and Grimbergen Astrum Pale Ale.

Speaking from the launch of the Abbey Brewery Cees 't Hart, CEO of Carlsberg Group, who are the global licensees of Grimbergen, said: "It is a treat to be here at the beginning of Grimbergen's next chapter and to experience what we believe will enrich the future of Belgian beer.

"Grimbergen is at the very heart of our growing portfolio of craft and speciality beer and it is contributing to the strong double-digit growth we're seeing in the category. The new Abbey Brewery is an important step for us in continuing to develop our speciality brews to meet growing worldwide demand. We believe this beautiful Abbey Brewery will take us, and beer drinkers around the world, on an incredible journey of flavour discovery."

The Abbey Brewery was built in a close partnership between the Grimbergen Abbey and Carlsberg Group. Father Karel Stautemas, Provisor at the Abbey, was instrumental in building the new facility and has joined the brewing team as Abbey Brewer. When Covid allows, he will complete his brewing qualifications, allowing him and his fellow fathers to continue the legacy of generations of Fathers before him.

Father Karel said: "The new microbrewery is a place to reignite past traditions, just like our symbol the Pheonix we always have the strength to rise again, but to add fresh thinking too. We want to combine our experience, nearly nine centuries of it, with innovation in pursuit of the most delicious and unique new brews. I think that the microbrewery allows us to do that, to explore and experiment with styles and ingredients in a really exciting way."

Father Karel combines his day-to-day monastic life with the running of the Abbey Brewery, supporting Master Brewer Marc-Antoine Sochon, who has also been heavily involved in bringing the new brewery to life.

Marc-Antoine, a 28-year-old brewing wunderkind from France who began brewing in his parents' garage and has since gone on to study both wine making and brewing, added: "We are now brewing beer in the abbey for the first time again in over 200 years, a great celebration for the Fathers, for the Grimbergen community and for all those who love Grimbergen beer.

"We are setting a marker for Belgian beers worldwide. The new brewery allows us to craft batches of delicious beers inspired by new and old brewing techniques to create brand-new sensory experiences. These new brews will provide fans of Grimbergen and others with the chance to journey through amazing new tastes and flavours that could only be conceived in the unique surrounds of Grimbergen Abbey."

Grimbergen Abbey Brewery also features an on-site bar and restaurant giving visitors the opportunity to savour the rich brews and pair them with dishes from the restaurant Fenikshof. Later this year, Grimbergen will also open a Brewery Experience Centre that will give visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves into the rich heritage of Grimbergen and the magic behind its innovation.

For more information about Grimbergen Abbey Brewery and Grimbergen beers, visit grimbergen.com.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1518925/Grimbergen.jpg
MZ joins London Stock Exchange's Marketplace offering innovative technology for Investor Relations

NEW YORK, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- MZ, a global leader in investor relations solutions, today announced its inclusion on London Stock Exchange's Issuer Services Marketplace, offering Investor Relations technology and services for all companies listed on London Stock Exchange, regardless of size or industry.

In addition to MZ's comprehensive investor relations and outreach service offerings, MZ will provide London Stock Exchange issuers preferential rates and exclusive technology packages. At launch, MZ is offering to design and implement a company's new IR website in 7 days, creating a new look and feel for the investor communication and the best-in-class technology. For more information on this offer, please contact sales@mzgroup.com.

"Our inclusion on London Stock Exchange's Issuer Services Marketplace will allow us to offer an engaging, professional public presence to any company looking to revamp the IR websites," said Amanda Munhoz, partner at MZ. "Having completed over 1,600 investor relations websites worldwide, we look forward to leveraging 20+ years of experience to service LSEG issuers and bring them an unrivaled level of service and adding best-of-breed market intelligence to empower investor relations strategy."

All MZ websites are built with investor engagement and regulatory compliance in mind, leveraging fully responsive, modern, and GDPR-compliant designs. Websites are hosted by Amazon AWS, with a user-friendly content management tool, and connected with market intelligence

"London Stock Exchange issuers will now have access to some of the most robust outreach, consulting, and IR technology solutions on the market," said Greg Falesnik, CEO of MZ North America. "We look forward to a long and successful partnership, while providing issuers a suite of consulting and technology services tailored to their unique needs."

About MZ

MZ is a global leader in investor relations solutions for over 20 years. Through innovative technology and exceptional customer service MZ empower investor relations strategy to over 800 clients worldwide.

MZ full suite of communications and intelligence solutions keeps IR professionals ahead of the market by providing them with all the tools and insights they need to make effective decisions and better engage with the market. MZ has offices in Chicago, New York, San Diego, Sao Paulo, and Taiwan. Visit mzgroup.com to learn more.
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 27, 2021 Aston Bay Holdings Ltd. (TSX-V:BAY; OTCQB:ATBHF) ("Aston Bay" or the "Company"), through its wholly owned subsidiary Blue Ridge Mining Inc., is pleased to announce that it has entered into a Letter Agreement with a private landowner for key parcels of land as part of the Company's exploration for base metals deposits in Campbell and Pittsylvania Counties in Central Virginia, USA. The agreement sets out the terms for an Exploration and Option to Lease Agreement, anticipated to be signed in the coming weeks.

Highlights

1,982 acres of private land located within an underexplored base metals belt.

Direct access to highway and rail transportation.

Untested EM conductor 1.4 miles in strike length.

Base metals intersected in nearby drill holes (e.g., 1.12% Zn over 4.6-meter core interval).

Drill program proposed for summer 2021, ground EM planned for other conductive anomalies.

The Mountain Base Metals Project is located on 1,982 acres (802 hectares) of private land with direct access to both highway and rail transportation. Several electromagnetic (EM) and magnetic anomalies have been delineated by historic airborne and ground geophysical surveys on the property, coincident with areas of anomalous copper and zinc in rock chip and soil analyses.

The highest priority target is an airborne EM conductor anomaly 1.4 miles (2.2 kilometres) in strike length, contained entirely within the property and confirmed by well-defined ground EM anomalies. The conductor is also coincident with anomalous surficial rock chip analyses of up to 2,556 ppm Cu and 3,695 ppm Zn. Two historic drill holes targeted the anomaly, yielding 1.12% Zn and 0.74% Pb over a 4.6 metres (m) interval in core in 2013 and 0.82% Zn over a 0.43m core interval in 1999. The conductive anomaly has not been explained by results from the drilling, however, and subsequent geophysical reinterpretations suggest neither drill hole bisected the anomaly. The conductor remains untested, presenting a compelling target for significant base metals mineralization that Aston Bay plans to drill as part of a proposed summer drill program.

"We are pleased to partner with another landowner in Virginia," stated Thomas Ullrich, CEO of Aston Bay, "and are excited by the tremendous potential of such a large untested conductor associated with significant base metal mineralization in nearby drillholes. Zinc and lead mineralization are often found on the margins of polymetallic copper-zinc-lead cores in these types of deposits. There are other attractive conductive anomalies on the property that also merit further work, including ground EM surveys with potential follow-up drilling, and we look forward to investigating other properties in this very prospective belt."

The Mountain Base Metals Project sits within a 60-mile (96 kilometre) belt with numerous historic stratabound lead, zinc, copper, barite, iron and manganese occurrences in a metamorphosed section of rift-related sedimentary, volcanic and intrusive rocks highly prospective for volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) and sedimentary exhalative (SEDEX) styles of mineralization. Negotiations to partner with landowners of prospective parcels in other portions of the belt are ongoing.

QUALIFIED PERSON

As per National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, Andrew Turner, P.Geol., a consultant to Aston Bay, is the Qualified Person for the Company and has prepared, validated and approved the technical and scientific content of this news release. The Company strictly adheres to CIM Best Practices Guidelines in conducting, documenting, and reporting its exploration activities.

About Aston Bay Holdings

Aston Bay is a publicly traded mineral exploration company exploring for gold and base metal deposits in Virginia, USA, and Nunavut, Canada. The Company is led by CEO Thomas Ullrich with exploration in Virginia directed by the Company's advisor, Don Taylor, the 2018 Thayer Lindsley Award winner for his discovery of the Taylor Pb-Zn-Ag Deposit in Arizona.

The Company has acquired the exclusive rights to an integrated dataset over certain prospective private lands and has signed agreements with timber and land companies and other private landowners which grants the company the option to lease the mineral rights to over 10,000 acres of land located in central Virginia. These lands are located within a gold-copper-lead-zinc mineralized belt prospective for mesothermal gold deposits and Virginia gold-pyrite belt deposits, as well as VMS, sedimentary exhalative (SEDEX) and Broken Hill (BHT) type base metal deposits. Don Taylor, who led the predecessor company to Blue Ridge and assembled the dataset, has joined the Company's Advisory Board and will be directing the Company's exploration activities for the Blue Ridge Project. The Company is actively exploring the Buckingham Gold Project in Virginia and is in advanced stages of negotiation on other lands in the area.

The Company is also 100% owner of the property Storm Project, which hosts the Storm Copper Project and the Seal Zinc Deposit and has been optioned to American West Metals Limited.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:

Thomas Ullrich, Chief Executive Officer

thomas.ullrich@astonbayholdings.com

(416) 456-3516

Sofia Harquail, IR and Corporate Development

sofia.harquail@astonbayholdings.com

(647) 821-1337

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements made in this news release, including those regarding the Option Agreement, grant of the Option and the expected closing date, American West's interest in the Storm Project and its other acquisitions and plans, plans for the upcoming field season, management objectives, forecasts, estimates, expectations, or predictions of the future may constitute "forward-looking statement", which can be identified by the use of conditional or future tenses or by the use of such verbs as "believe", "expect", "may", "will", "should", "estimate", "anticipate", "project", "plan", and words of similar import, including variations thereof and negative forms. This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect, as of the date of this press release, Aston Bay's expectations, estimates and projections about its operations, the mining industry and the economic environment in which it operates. Statements in this press release that are not supported by historical fact are forward-looking statements, meaning they involve risk, uncertainty and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although Aston Bay believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which apply only at the time of writing of this press release. Aston Bay disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by securities legislation.

SOURCE: Aston Bay Holdings Ltd

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/649407/Aston-Bay-Enters-into-Letter-Agreement-for-the-Drill-ready-Mountain-Base-Metals-Project-in-Central-Virginia-USA
Victory Exploration Team Investigating Manganese Oxide Deposits for Copper in the Vicinity of the Big Mike Deposit

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 27, 2021 / Victory Resources Corporation (CSE:VR)(FWB:VR61)(OTC PINK:VRCFF) ("Victory" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that its exploration team has completed a sampling program on the Company's Black Diablo property in Nevada. 72 soil samples and 22 rock samples were collected and submitted to ALS for analysis.

The primary purpose of the sampling was to investigate whether the Black Diablo manganese oxide deposits are anomalous in Cu (copper). This area is considered to be a favorable tract for Cyprus style VMS deposits by the USGS (Peters, et al, 1996), such as the Cu rich Big Mike Deposit about 10 miles to the south of the property. Cyprus VMS deposits and Mn-oxide deposits in this tract are spatially and geologically associated. The single assay included in the Black Diablo MRDS by the USGS indicated a Cu value of 10,000 ppm Cu, which indicates the sample was at least 1% Cu. Franciscan Type Mn-oxide deposits often report trace Cu, so significantly higher Cu values may indicate the area is prospective for Cyprus style VMS.

Sampling will also be looked at for indications of additional Mn-oxide mineralization in the area. While limited drilling has been done in the immediate vicinity of the Black Diablo Mine, no work has been documented on the rest of the property.

"With the proximity to the Loner property, where our drilling program was just completed, we have deployed our exploration team to Black Diablo to conduct this sampling program, prior to further exploration work in Nevada," said Mr. Mark Ireton, Victory CEO. "We have a strong exploration team on the ground, fully equipped and we are maximizing all of those resources to advance our Nevada properties, including Smokey Lithium."

Scientific and technical information contained in this press release was reviewed and approved by Mr. Helgi Sigurgeirson, Victory Geologist, and a "qualified person" under NI 43-101.

About the Black Diablo Property:

The Black Diablo Project is exploring for VMS Copper deposits in the same belt of rocks as Nevada Sunrise Gold Corp's Coronado VMS Project immediately to the south. The Big Mike Copper Mine is on the Coronado Property, about 10 miles south of the Black Diablo Property. The close proximity of the Black Diablo to the Loner Property allows for cost effective evaluation of the Black Diablo while crews are in the area. The Big Mike Copper Mine produced about 25 million pounds of copper in 100,000 tons of ore grading 10.5% copper, which was shipped directly to a smelter in West Germany. Ranchers also carried out heap leaching on the lower grade disseminated copper ore, treating about 300,000t of mineralised rock.

For further information, please contact:

Mark Ireton, President

Telephone: +1 (236) 317 2822 or TOLL FREE 1 (855) 665-GOLD (4653)

E-mail: IR@victoryresourcescorp.com

About Victory Resources Corporation

VICTORY RESOURCES CORPORATION (CSE: VR) is a publicly traded diversified investment corporation with mineral interests in North America. The company is also actively seeking other exploration opportunities.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

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. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding future financial position, business strategy, use of proceeds, corporate vision, proposed acquisitions, partnerships, joint-ventures and strategic alliances and co-operations, budgets, cost and plans and objectives of or involving the Company. Such forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "predicts", "intends", "targets", "aims", "anticipates" or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases or may be identified by statements to the effect that certain actions "may", "could", "should", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. A number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the actual results or performance to materially differ from any future results or performance expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions and dependence upon regulatory approvals. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by securities laws.

SOURCE: Victory Resources Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/649354/Victory-Completes-Sampling-Program-at-Black-Diablo-Nevada-Property
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Andean Precious Metals Corp. (TSXV: APM) ("Andean" or the "Company"), a precious metals production and exploration company, today reported its operational and financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2021. All amounts are expressed in U.S. dollars unless indicated otherwise.

Q1 2021 Highlights

Free cash flow ( 1 , 2 ) of $10.9 million, an increase of $9.8 million compared to Q1 2020;

of $10.9 million, an increase of $9.8 million compared to Q1 2020; Ending cash balance of $69.2 million, an increase of $59.6 million compared to March 31, 2020;

of $69.2 million, an increase of $59.6 million compared to March 31, 2020; Silver equivalent production ( 3 ) and sales of 1.5 million ounces at an all-in sustaining cost of $17.28 per ounce;

and sales of 1.5 million ounces at an all-in sustaining cost of $17.28 per ounce; Revenues of $38.3 million, an increase of 57% compared to Q1 2020;

of $38.3 million, an increase of 57% compared to Q1 2020; Adjusted EBITDA of $10.3 million, an increase of 58% compared to Q1 2020;

of $10.3 million, an increase of 58% compared to Q1 2020; Continued COVID-19 protocols in place to protect the health and safety of employees during the pandemic, mitigating a material impact to operations.

Luis da Silva, the Company's President and CEO, stated, "Our strong Q1 2021 results underscore the value of our San Bartolome operations in a robust silver price environment. While earnings were impacted by one-time expenditures related to the RTO and the recognition of non-cash deferred taxes, the Company generated $11 million in free cash flow in Q1 2021 and strengthened its balance sheet - better positioning Andean to carry out our active 2021 growth agenda. We continue to review Bolivian opportunities together with COMIBOL and other mining cooperatives to add flexibility to our operations, while providing a community service to our partners."

Operational and Financial Results

Financial Performance(4)

Q1 2021



Q1 2020 Revenue $ 38.3

$ 24.4

Cost of sales $ 24.6

$ 14.8

Income from mine operations $ 11.3

$ 9.6

Net income (loss) $ (1.5 ) $ 2.5

Operating cash flow $ 11.6

$ 1.5

Free cash flow(1,2) $ 10.9

$ 1.1

Adjusted EBITDA(1) $ 10.3

$ 6.9

Ending cash and cash equivalents $ 69.2

$ 9.6

Capital expenditures $ 0.2

$ 0.3 Cash operating costs ("COC")(1) $ 15.90

$ 14.83

All-in sustaining costs ("AISC")(1) $ 17.28

$ 16.65

(1) Free cash flow, Adjusted EBITDA, COC and AISC are measures of financial performance with no prescribed definition under IFRS. Please refer to the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 filed at www.sedar.com for a reconciliation of these items to the Company's financial statements.

(2) Free cash flow is defined as operating cash flow less capital expenditures.

(3) Silver equivalent ounces include gold ounces produced or sold and are converted to a silver equivalent based on a ratio of realized silver and gold prices during the periods discussed.

(4) Figures are presented in US millions, other than COC, AISC and per share figures.

Revenue for the first quarter of 2021 was $38.3 million compared to $24.4 million in the first quarter of 2020. Revenue growth was attributable to an increase in silver equivalent sales volumes of 9% to 1.5 million silver equivalent ounces and higher realized prices of $25.57 per ounce of silver in the first quarter of 2021 compared with $17.80 per ounce of silver for the first quarter of 2020. Cost of sales, including royalty expenses linked to commodity prices, rose to $24.6 million compared to $14.8 million in the first quarter of 2020, corresponding to the increase in sales. As a result, income from mine operations increased to $11.3 million from $6.4 million in the first quarter of 2020.

General and administrative costs increased to $5.7 million compared to $1.4 million in the first quarter of 2020. The increase was driven by one-time expenditures from the Company's reverse takeover transaction totaling $3.5 million, including $2.4 million of non-cash common share, option and warrant issuances to shareholders of Andean's predecessor company. Deferred income taxes of $5.7 million were recognized during the first quarter of fiscal 2021, relating to the usage of previously recognized loss carryforwards and other factors. Overall, the net loss for the quarter was $1.5 million for the first quarter of 2021.

Operational Performance

Q1 2021



Q1 2020 Mined ore(1) (k dmt)

229



295

Average ore mined grade (Ag g/t)

102



92

Purchased ore(2) (k dmt)

130



114

Average purchased ore grade (Ag g/t)

192



253

Ore milled(3) (k dmt)

420



365

Daily average throughput (k dmt)

4,941



4,802

Average head grade (Ag g/t)

118



141

Silver recovery (%)

87



90

Silver production (k ozs)

1,385



1,495

Silver equivalent production (k ozs)

1,485



1,723

Silver sales (k ozs)

1,417



1,106

Silver equivalent sales (k ozs)

1,500



1,372

(1) Mined ore includes ore from permitted mineral reserve areas, including the Pallacos areas (Santa Rita, Huacajchi and Antuco) and mine waste stockpile areas (El Asiento and Tatasi-Portugalete). Mined ore is reported as +8 mesh.

(2) Purchased ore includes ore purchased at Cachi Laguna and oxide purchases from local mining cooperatives.

(3) Ore milled includes ore processed from mined, purchased, and stockpiled ore.

Silver equivalent production by source (k ozs)

Q1 2021



Q1 2020 Pallacos

603



643

Mine waste stockpiles

215



-

Cachi Laguna

104



427

Oxide purchases

563



653

Total silver equivalent production

1,485



1,723

2021 Outlook Update and Guidance

The Company produced 1.5 million silver equivalent ounces from its operations during the first quarter of 2021 from its mineral reserves and its third-party ore sourcing business. During the remainder of 2021, the Company will move production away from the depleted Antuco area to the Santa Rita and Huacajchi Pallacos areas. At the Company's high-grade mine waste stockpile areas, mining production will continue at the El Asiento area through 2021, and at Tatasi-Portugalete, mining production is expected to begin by mid-2021. The Company is also planning a development opportunity at its Monserrat mine waste stockpile area, which is expected to contain higher-grade material than the Company's Pallacos areas.

The Company seeks to expand its mine life by completing a technical study on the economic viability of reprocessing approximately 10 million tonnes contained in its tailings facilities, estimated from Manquiri's production records to contain silver and tin grades of approximately 40 grams per tonne silver and 0.25% tin, respectively.

The Company continues to expand its third-party ore sourcing business from locations outside Cerro Rico. As the San Bartolome operation contains the only large-scale commercial oxide plant in the country, the Company is leveraging this advantage with its strong working capital position and actively reviewing additional purchasing opportunities throughout Bolivia. The Company currently purchases ore from 32 out of approximately 1,700 mining cooperatives within Bolivia.

The following table sets out Andean's first quarter 2021 results against its full-year 2021 production and cost guidance:



Q1 2021

Actual FY 2021

Guidance(1) Silver equivalent production 1.5M oz 5.8M to 6.1M oz AISC (by-product) $17.28/Ag oz $17.50 to $19.50/Ag oz

(1) Andean's assumed commodity prices supporting this estimate are $24.00/ounce silver and $1,750/ounce gold.

Growth Program

The Company commenced exploration activities on its 100% owned San Pablo and Rio Blanco properties in February 2021. At San Pablo, a 10,000m diamond drilling program is underway, with an initial campaign of 3,350m completed in May 2021. At Rio Blanco, mapping and trench sampling have begun, and deep IP and geophysical studies will commence shortly. In tandem, the Company is assessing acquisition opportunities in Bolivia, and other locations throughout South and Central America.

Qualified Person Statement

Donald J. Birak, Registered Member SME and Fellow AusIMM and independent qualified person as defined under NI 43-101, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information presented herein.

About Andean Precious Metals Corp.

Andean Precious Metals (TSXV: APM) is a Canadian, growth-focused silver producer operating in Bolivia. The Company produced 5.9M silver equivalent ounces in 2020 at an all-in sustaining cost of $14.75 USD per ounce from its own mineral claims, contracts with the state mining company of Bolivia (COMIBOL), and from a high margin third-party ore sourcing business. All processing takes place at the Company's 1.65M tonne per year San Bartolome plant which has the capacity to produce silver dore bars. Andean Precious Metals is committed to fostering safe, sustainable and responsible operations. For more information, please visit www.andeanpm.com .

Company Contact

Luis da Silva

Chief Executive Officer

ir@andeanpm.com

T: +44 7788 640696

Investor Contact N.A.

Daniel Weinerman

NATIONAL Capital Markets

dweinerman@national.ca

T: 416 848 1715

Media Contact Eur.

Oliver Lamb

Consultant

Tavistock

andean@tavistock.co.uk

T: +44 20 7920 3150

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange, Inc. 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.

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements which constitute "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"), including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs and current expectations of Andean with respect to future business activities and operating performance. Forward-looking statements are often identified by the words "may", "would", "could", "should", "will", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect" or similar expressions.

Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts but instead reflect Andean's expectations, estimates or projections concerning future results or events based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the statements are made. Although Andean believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed thereon, as unknown or unpredictable factors could have material adverse effects on future results, performance or achievements of Andean. Among the key factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements are the following: changes in general economic, business and political conditions, including changes in the financial markets; changes in applicable laws and regulations both locally and in foreign jurisdictions; compliance with extensive government regulation; the risks and uncertainties associated with foreign markets. These forward-looking statements may be affected by risks and uncertainties in the business of Andean and general market conditions, including COVID-19.

Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although Andean has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended and such changes could be material. Andean does not intend, and do not assume any obligation, to update the forward-looking statements except as otherwise required by applicable law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85423
Deveron expands United States footprint, increasing engaged acres under management by 800,000.

Stealth Ag 2020 unaudited revenue of US $0.7M and EBITDA of US $0.2M.

Acquisition includes US $400,000 in data technician capital equipment.

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Deveron Corp. (TSXV: FARM) ("Deveron" or the "Company"), a leading agriculture digital services and insights provider in North America, is pleased to announce it has entered into a definitive agreement (the "Definitive Agreement") to acquire the assets of Stealth Ag, Inc. ("Stealth Ag"), a digital agronomy company, with offices in Minnesota and Iowa (the "Acquisition"). Stealth Ag provides soil sampling services and digital management across 800,000 acres of customers on varying levels of annual engagement. Stealth Ag's unaudited 2020 revenue was US$0.7M and EBITDA of US $0.2M. This acquisition further accelerates Deveron's strategy of increasing access to leading, local agriculture service providers that influence key farm customers in the United States.

Brent Hjelmeland, CEO of Stealth Ag, commented, "I couldn't be more excited to have Stealth Ag join the Deveron team. Deveron's turn-key analytics and technology solutions can help agribusinesses focus on the customer's needs to improve yield and reduce costs. We look forward to leveraging Deveron's technology to further facilitate Stealth's current growth profile as we continue to expand our influence in Minnesota and Iowa."

"Stealth Ag is a tremendous leader in soil data services and agronomic solutions in Minnesota and Iowa," said David MacMillan, Deveron's President and CEO. "With Stealth we are acquiring local leaders, a powerful client base and a significant increase in service density capabilities for our growing, North American focused service network. We look forward to working with Brent and his team to leverage Deveron's technology stack to increase their influence across Minnesota and Iowa's combined 66 million acres of farmable land. At the same time, we also see this as an accretive opportunity for our customers looking for reliable and standardized data services increasing our capabilities of providing one-vendor solutions to our customers that have interests across multiple states in the US."

As consideration for the Acquisition, Deveron has agreed to: (i) pay Stealth Ag an initial cash payment of US$800,000 upon signing of the Definitive Agreement and an aggregate of US$150,000 on each of the first two anniversaries of the signing of the Definitive Agreement; and (ii) issue such number of common shares in the capital of the Company (the "Common Shares") equal to US$175,000 at a price of $0.86 per Common Share upon receipt of the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV") and an additional number of Common Shares equal to US$187,500 at a price of $0.86 per Common Share on each of the first two anniversaries of the signing of the Definitive Agreement. (iii) pay First Southeast Bank ("The Lender") US $106,525.81 representing the amount due by Stealth Ag to Lender upon signing of the Definitive Agreement.

Under the terms of the Acquisition if certain milestones are met, Deveron has agreed to pay an additional US$270,000 as follows:

US$40,000 in cash and issue such number of Common Shares equal to US$40,000 in the event that during the 12-month period (the first earn-out period), commencing January 1, 2021, Stealth Ag exceeds gross revenue of US$1,000,000.

US$50,000 in cash and issue such number of Common Shares equal to US$50,000 in the event that during the 12-month period following the first earn-out period (the second earn-out period), Stealth Ag exceeds gross revenue for the prior twelve month period by at least US$250,000.

Issue such number of Common Shares equal to US$90,000 in the event that Stealth Ag adds 400,000 unique acres to Farm Dog during the 24-month period following execution of the agreement.

The completion of the transaction remains subject to all regulatory and other approvals, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

About Stealth Ag: Stealth Ag is an independent agronomy company, blending precision systems and unbiased perspective allowing our customers to enjoy an optimal blend of services to increase yields. With locations in Minnesota and Iowa, Stealth Ag has spent the last ten years integrating innovative practices with practical agronomy, all to assist their clients in the growth of their soil fertility and yield management programs.

About Deveron: Deveron is an agriculture technology company that uses data and insights to help farmers and large agriculture enterprises increase yields, reduce costs and improve farm outcomes. The company employs a digital process that leverages data collected on farms across North America to drive unbiased interpretation of production decisions, ultimately recommending how to optimize input use. Our team of agronomists and data scientists build products that recommend ways to better manage fertilizer, seed, fungicide, and other farm inputs. Additionally, we have a national network of data technicians that are deployed to collect various types of farm data, from soil to drone, that build a basis of our best in class data layers. Our focus is the US and Canada where 1 billion acres of farmland are actively farmed annually.

For more information, please visit www.deveronuas.com.

David MacMillan

President & CEO Deveron Corp.

416-367-4571 ext. 221

dmacmillan@deveronuas.com

"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."

This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of that phrase under Canadian securities laws. Without limitation, statements regarding future plans and objectives of the Company are forward-looking statements that involve various degrees of risk. Forward-looking statements reflect management's current views with respect to possible future events and conditions and, by their nature, are based on management's beliefs and assumptions and subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, both general and specific to the Company. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in our forward-looking statements. The following are important factors that could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements: changes in the world-wide price of agricultural commodities, general market conditions, risks inherent in agriculture, the uncertainty of future profitability and the uncertainty of access to additional capital. Additional information regarding the material factors and assumptions that were applied in making these forward-looking statements as well as the various risks and uncertainties we face are described in greater detail in the "Risk Factors" section of our annual and interim Management's Discussion and Analysis of our financial results and other continuous disclosure documents and financial statements we file with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities which are available at www.sedar.com. The Company undertakes no obligation to update this forward-looking information except as required by applicable law. The Company relies on litigation protection for forward-looking statements.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85428
International Federation of Robotics releases "World Robotics R&D Programs"

As the economies reopen from the pandemic, Asia, Europe and America adjust their robotics research funding programs (R&D). What are the targets of the officially driven government programs today? This has been researched by the International Federations of Robotics and published in the 2021 update paper of "World Robotics R&D Programs".

"The first version of World Robotics R&D Programs was introduced in June last year. Since then, dozens of countries have updated their robotics R&D programs." says Prof. Dr. Jong-Oh Park, Vice-Chairman IFR Research Committee and member of the Executive Board. "The five most advanced robotics countries, South Korea, Japan, Germany, USA and China follow up a very different strategic focus."

Robotics R&D programs officially driven by governments

The strategic plan Made in China 2025 comes as a blueprint to upgrade the manufacturing capabilities of Chinese industries. In order to promote the rapid development of intelligent robot technology, the key special projects of "Intelligent Robots" are being deployed in accordance with the requirements of the "Innovation Chain". The statistical yearbook "World Robotics" by IFR shows that China reached a robot density of 187 units per 10,000 workers in the manufacturing industry the country ranks 15th worldwide.

The new European Framework Program Horizon Europe has been launched on research and innovation over the period of 2021 to 2027. Horizon Europe will support top researchers, innovators, and general citizens to develop the knowledge and solutions needed to ensure a green, digital, and healthy future. The robotics-related work program 2021-2022 in Cluster 4 will provide total funding of 240 million USD (198.7 million EUR).

The National Robotics Initiative (NRI) in the USA was launched for fundamental robotics R&D supported by the US Government. A key sector is "Space Robotics", where NASA launched a lunar program named "Artemis" with the purpose to return astronauts to the lunar surface by 2024 and to construct promising capabilities for Mars missions after 2024.

Please find FULL TEXT including JAPAN, KOREA and GERMANY at:

https://ifr.org/ifr-press-releases/news/investment-in-robotics-research-global-report-2021

Files for Download

Please find the information paper "World Robotics R&D Programs" by IFR

for download at: https://ifr.org/r-and-d

Video: FACTS about ROBOTS at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_kApx8C-O4

About IFR

www.ifr.org

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005099/en/

Contacts:

International Federation of Robotics

Carsten Heer

phone +49 (0) 40 822 44 284

E-Mail: press@ifr.org
SkyFive provides high-speed broadband services for the aviation industry, based on its patented Air-To-Ground (A2G) solution that leverages standard mobile network components. A2G is the only technology that can meet the ever-increasing demand for broadband connectivity in the sky. It delivers bandwidth up to 100 times cheaper than satellite systems and flexibly scales to address the future connectivity needs of airlines, business jet operators, and providers of Urban Air Mobility. SkyFive purchased Nokia's Air-to-Ground business in October of 2019.

Airlines with a strong digitization strategy are emerging from the pandemic stronger than their competitors. Broadband connectivity for the entire fleet is a crucial enabler for profound digitization to improve operational efficiency, generate ancillary revenue, and provide a safe and touchless travel experience. The SkyFive A2G solution is already in commercial operations in all of Europe, and several further deployments are underway. In August, SkyFive and Airbus signed an agreement to provide an A2G solution for China, which has become the largest aviation market.

Thorsten Robrecht, CEO of SkyFive AG said:

"We engaged Axxeltrova as a corporate finance advisor to ensure we targeted a highly relevant pool of investors in the tech and telecoms space. Their advice and guidance have helped shape this process and bring it to a great outcome for the company and investors. They have been excellent to work with throughout the transaction and highlights Axxeltrova's expertise as a technology and telecoms sell-side advisor".

Rick Phillips, Partner at Axxeltrova Limited, said:

"I am absolutely thrilled to have supported SkyFive in securing Series A Financing, which will enable the management team to embark on an exciting growth journey over the coming years. It has been a pleasure to work with Thorsten Robrecht and the team on this transaction, and I'm very confident in SkyFive's strategy and ability to bring high-speed connectivity to the aviation industry around the world, and I look forward to continuing to support them on that journey".

About Axxeltrova Limited:

Axxeltrova is an FCA regulated tech-focused specialist investment bank based in London. The firm works across the tech and telecoms value chain from digital Infrastructure, EV technology, Smart Cities, deep tech/AI to SaaS.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005111/en/

Contacts:

For more information, visit https://axxeltrova.com or contact Rick Phillips at rick.phillips@axxeltrova.com
Thunder Bay, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Benton Resources Inc. (TSXV: BEX) ("Benton" or "the Company") is pleased to announce, together with Sokoman Minerals Corp. (TSXV: SIC) (OTCQB: SICNF) ("Sokoman"), the joint acquisition of the 324 claim (8,100 hectare) Grey River Gold Project in southern Newfoundland. The Property includes 11 claim units (275 hectares) optioned from local interests under letter agreements, more details to be released in the coming weeks. The Grey River acquisition is consistent with the newly formed Benton/Sokoman Alliance, which is targeting district-scale gold opportunities in Newfoundland.

The Grey River Gold Project is centered on the community of Grey River, a deep-water, ice-free harbour on the south coast of the Island of Newfoundland, 32 km east of the town of Burgeo, and 38 km southeast of the recently acquired Golden Hope Joint Venture (see Press Release dated May 20, 2021). The SIC-BEX claims straddle a fundamental east-west trending ductile shear zone that separates a large enclave of Late Precambrian amphibolite, gabbro, metasediments, felsic metavolcanics and mafic orthogneisses from a batholith-scale, syn-kinematic suite of Siluro-Devonian granitoid rocks. The east-west trending amphibolite-grade metamorphic units are correlatives of the coeval basement block exposed on-strike, farther west in the Hermitage Flexure, near Burgeo and at Hope Brook. The east-west shear zone at Grey River, and parallel structures immediately offshore, are fundamental crustal breaks, along which several metal-rich mid- to late-Devonian granites were emplaced along the southern coast of the Island.

Rocks in this segment of the Hermitage Flexure are unusually enriched in gold (Au), molybdenum (Mo), copper (Cu), tungsten (W), fluorine (F) and bismuth (Bi). A 5-km-wide by 10-km-long area within and adjoining the property, between Grey River and Gulch Cove, is particularly metal-rich, hosting: i) multiple mesothermal and intrusion-related Au-rich (+/- Bi-Ag-Sb-Pb-Zn) quartz veins; ii) a porphyry Mo-Cu deposit (Moly Brook); iii) a vein-type wolframite-rich W deposit (Grey River #10); and iv) a unique, diffusely bounded, high-purity, locally auriferous silica deposit (Gulch Cove) of equivocal origin. Each appear to be associated with distinct features in the regional aero magnetics and are also reflected in regional Government lake-sediment geochemistry coverage of the area. The primary focus of upcoming SIC-BEX exploration is quartz-vein-hosted, structurally controlled and intrusion-related, high-grade Au (+/- Ag, Bi, Sb) in both the granitic and adjacent metamorphic terranes.

Previous exploration at Grey River identified gold in several settings: in base-metal-rich and sulfide-poor, quartz veins and veinlets in the gneisses and related metamorphic rocks, including regional-scale silica bodies; in quartz veins with coarse-grained sulfides in granite; in sulfide-poor, quartz stock-work in sericitized granite; and in stockwork-style quartz and quartz-sulfide veinlets with or without pervasive silica replacement in granite.

Gold grades reported from historic grab samples and channel samples from the property range from less than 1g/t to over 225 g/t Au, locally with 200-300 g/t Ag, with or without anomalous Bi, Sb (antimony) and W. The 225 g/t Au chip sample is from a 20-30 cm wide zone of pyritic alteration immediately adjacent to an 8-km-long, diffusely bounded quartz zone. The latter coincides with the large elongate high-purity silica body (12M tonnes >95% SiO) drilled by the Newfoundland Government in 1967 as part of an Island-wide silica assessment program. The diffusely bounded, irregularly shaped silica lies at the boundary of amphibolite gneisses and mica-schists, and within mica schists, along the flank of a prominent aeromagnetic high. Its origin is unclear and past workers have proposed differing origins (e.g., meta-quartzite; quartz vein; silica replacement zone). The style, grades, setting and Au-Ag-Bi-W-Sb geochemical signature of some of the gold mineralization led previous exploration groups to draw comparisons with the high-grade Pogo gold mine within the Tintina Gold Belt of Alaska and Yukon (gold in diffusely bounded quartz bodies within amphibolite grade gneisses). The Pogo mine, up to the end of 2019, had produced 3.9 million oz gold at 13.6 g/t gold, with reserves of over 7 million oz gold.





Grey River Map



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/3657/85454_figure1.jpg





Newfoundland Gold Properties



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/3657/85454_figure2.jpg

QP

Nathan Sims (P.Geo., PEGNL Member 09409), Senior Exploration Manager for Benton Resources Inc., the 'Qualified Person' under National Instrument 43-101, has approved the scientific and technical disclosure in this news release and prepared or supervised its preparation.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of Benton Resources Inc.,

"Stephen Stares"

Stephen Stares, President

About Benton Resources Inc.

Benton Resources is a well-funded Canadian-based project generator with a diversified property portfolio in Gold, Silver, Nickel, Copper, and Platinum group elements. Benton holds multiple high-grade projects available for option which can be viewed on the Company's website. Most projects have an up-to-date 43-101 Report available.

Parties interested in seeking more information about properties available for option can contact Mr. Stares at the number below.

For further information, please contact:

Stephen Stares, President & CEO

Phone: 807-475-7474

Email: sstares@bentonresources.ca

CHF Capital Markets

Cathy Hume, CEO

Phone: 416-868-1079 x251

Email: cathy@chfir.com

Website: www.bentonresources.ca

Twitter: @BentonResources

Facebook: @BentonResourcesBEX

THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements."

Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to gold price and other commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85454
Revenue of $9.9 million in Q1 2021, a 112% increase over Q1 2020

Gross margin of 37% in Q1 2021, compared with 33% in Q4 2020

Cash and cash equivalents of $12.4 million as of March 31, 2021

Strong brand performance, with approximately 747,927 Branded Units sold in Q1 2021 (a 44% increase over Q1 2020)1

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - SLANG Worldwide Inc. (CNSX: SLNG) (OTCQB: SLGWF) ("SLANG" or the "Company"), a leading global cannabis consumer packaged goods (CPG) company with a diversified portfolio of popular brands, today released financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2021. All figures in this press release are stated in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.

Key Financial and Operational Highlights

Financial Highlights:

Revenue for Q1 2021 was $9.9 million, compared with $4.7 million in Q1 2020 and $9.7 million in Q4 2020. The primary driver of growth was strong demand in the Company's core markets of Colorado and Oregon as well as the consolidation of wholesale revenue. Similar strength in the Company's emerging markets also contributed to growth, as did the successful launch of new products including Lunchbox Alchemy CBD.

Gross profit of $3.71 million (37% gross margin) in Q1 2021, compared with $2.85 million (61% gross margin) in Q1 2020 and $3.16 million (33% gross margin) in Q4 2020. In 2020 sales were primarily comprised of licensing and packaging revenue. This represented lower topline revenue but higher gross margin percentages, with lower gross profit dollars. With the consolidation of our operations in our core markets 2 we are now generating higher topline revenue with lower gross margin percentages and higher gross profit dollars. The increase in margin from Q4 2020 is a result of fully consolidating the economics of our Colorado manufacturing partner from December 31, 2020.

we are now generating higher topline revenue with lower gross margin percentages and higher gross profit dollars. The increase in margin from Q4 2020 is a result of fully consolidating the economics of our Colorado manufacturing partner from December 31, 2020. Adjusted EBITDA (LBITDA) of ($0.96 million) in Q1 2021, compared with ($2.7 million) in Q1 2020. The reduction of the Adjusted EBITDA loss is primarily attributable to an increase in revenue and a reduction in operating expenses. The increase in revenue in Q1 2021 of $5.23M which represents a 112% increase can be attributed to the Company's consolidation of its core market operations as described above.

$12.4 million of cash and cash equivalents at March 31, 2021, compared to $6.5 million at December 31, 2020. This includes proceeds from an oversubscribed private placement (the "Financing") for aggregate gross proceeds of $11.9 million, led by cannabis-focused private equity firm Merida Capital Holdings.

Chris Driessen, CEO of SLANG, said, "We reported improved topline results, both year over year and sequentially, primarily driven by strength in both our core markets of Colorado and Oregon which benefited from the consolidated economics from our recent acquisitions. Gross profit also improved, as expected, as we fully consolidated the economics of ACG, following the execution of a merger agreement to purchase 100% of the equity interest, which is expected to close in the coming weeks. We continued to integrate and invest in the assets that we acquired in 2020 in our core markets, including launching a new e-commerce store through which we are selling our CBD products, in order to maximize the growth opportunity.

"Looking ahead, we are well-positioned to continue our growth strategy of increasing market share in our core markets and expanding in emerging markets. SLANG will continue to benefit from its leaner, more efficient business model which is allowing us effectively manage costs. Excluding expenses associated with the companies acquired in 2020 which were LBA Global, Peoria Partners, Pleasant Valley Ranch and ACG, operating expenses declined by 20% to $8.66M (or 87% of revenue) compared with Q1 2021 operating expenses of $10.78M (or 230% of revenue). All-in, operating expenses still declined in Q1 2021 compared with Q1 2020. This improved operational efficiency, together with our brand leadership and expanding product portfolio, provides us with a strong platform to support the rapid scaling of our business throughout the remainder of the year. We expect to see stronger emerging market sales in 2021 as we drive brand value creation and expand our presence in these markets. Our partnerships with Trulieve, Natura Life + Science and Gage Cannabis will further contribute to our expanded product distribution and improve our brand performance. With a strong cash balance to fuel our expansion into new states and growth in core markets, we are poised for meaningful growth in the remainder of the year."

Operational Highlights and Growth Drivers:

Capital efficiency: As of December 31, 2020 the Company consolidated the economics of Allied Concessions Group, Inc. ("ACG"), which led to improved gross margin.

As of December 31, 2020 the Company consolidated the economics of Allied Concessions Group, Inc. ("ACG"), which led to improved gross margin. Strategic Partnerships & Emerging Market Expansion: The Company is continuing to recalibrate or strengthen relationships in emerging markets to provide for sustainable and profitable growth. Recent highlights include: California : The Company's Strategic Partnership with Natura Life + Science ("Natura") will allow the Company to re-enter the California market in a profitable way. Products, beginning with District Edibles (the previous best-selling gummy in CA), are expected to be available in Q2 2021. Massachusetts : The Company has a Strategic Partnership with Trulieve Cannabis Corp. ("Trulieve") to supply branded products to the market. This is the second market in which SLANG and Trulieve will partner, building on the success that both companies have enjoyed in the Florida market. Massachusetts will mark the first time that both companies can partner on wholesale initiatives, which is a SLANG core competency. Products are expected in summer 2021. Florida : SLANG products continue to be sold at all 81 Trulieve locations in Florida. The Company added O.pen Cured Resin to its Florida portfolio. The Company expects District Edibles gummies in sweet and sour formulations to launch in Q2 2021. Michigan : SLANG's Strategic Partnership with Gage Cannabis, signed in Q2 2020, is expected to bring branded products to the Michigan market in Q3 2021. Oklahoma : SLANG products are now available in over 90 stores in the Oklahoma market. Sales in Oklahoma were in part driven by District Edibles gummies in both sweet and sour formulations. O.Pen Cured Resin is also set to launch in Oklahoma in Q2 2021. Washington: The Company has a Strategic Partnership with Snowcrest, LLC to supply branded products to the market. The Company is expected to bring branded products to market in Q3 2021. Canada : In Q1 2021, the Company's O.pen and Firefly Mini line of products became available in Ontario. The Firefly Mini has been ranked as the #1 selling disposable vape for several weeks in Q1 2021.

The Company is continuing to recalibrate or strengthen relationships in emerging markets to provide for sustainable and profitable growth. Recent highlights include: Key Performance Indicators : Excluding California, the Company showed considerable growth. 747,927 Branded Units were sold in Q1 2021, an increase of 44% compared with 520,239 Branded Units sold in Q1 2020; and 56.5 million Branded Servings were sold in Q1 2021, an increase of 23% compared with 46 million Branded Servings sold in Q1 2020. Including California, 748,079 Branded Units were sold in Q1 2021, an increase of 18% compared with 634,751 Branded Units sold in Q1 2020; and 56.5 million Branded Servings were sold in Q1 2021, an increase of 5% compared with 53.8 million Branded Servings sold in Q1 2020. The Company saw a 169% increase in branded unit volume in Oregon and expects California sales to pick up in Q2 2021 with its strategic partnership with Natura. In markets where units are down but servings are up, this generally is a result of consumer preference shifting from .5g carts to 1g carts, which contain a higher number of servings.

: Excluding California, the Company showed considerable growth. 747,927 Branded Units were sold in Q1 2021, an increase of 44% compared with 520,239 Branded Units sold in Q1 2020; and 56.5 million Branded Servings were sold in Q1 2021, an increase of 23% compared with 46 million Branded Servings sold in Q1 2020. Including California, 748,079 Branded Units were sold in Q1 2021, an increase of 18% compared with 634,751 Branded Units sold in Q1 2020; and 56.5 million Branded Servings were sold in Q1 2021, an increase of 5% compared with 53.8 million Branded Servings sold in Q1 2020. The Company saw a 169% increase in branded unit volume in Oregon and expects California sales to pick up in Q2 2021 with its strategic partnership with Natura. In markets where units are down but servings are up, this generally is a result of consumer preference shifting from .5g carts to 1g carts, which contain a higher number of servings. Product Diversification: The Company is bringing new product SKUs to market through the launch of additional brands in new product verticals and the expansion of existing product lines. During the first quarter, the Company entered into a strategic partnership to manufacture and distribute cannabis products for Flower by Edie Parker. The SLANG-manufactured products launched in Colorado in early 2021, with the potential to expand into additional markets over time.

The Company is bringing new product SKUs to market through the launch of additional brands in new product verticals and the expansion of existing product lines. During the first quarter, the Company entered into a strategic partnership to manufacture and distribute cannabis products for Flower by Edie Parker. The SLANG-manufactured products launched in Colorado in early 2021, with the potential to expand into additional markets over time. Brand Leadership: SLANG's brands continued to earn market-leading positions in its core markets in the first quarter of 2021. Highlights include: O.pen ranked as the #1 vape cartridge in Colorado and #12 in Oregon; Firefly Mini was the #5 and O.pen was the #4 disposable vaporizer in Colorado; Bakked was the #5 dabbable distillate in Oregon and #5 in Colorado; District Edibles was the #12 gummy in Colorado and Lunchbox Alchemy was the #8 gummy in Oregon; Pressies was the #4 pill in Colorado. (Source: BDSA.)

First Quarter 2021 Corporate Development Update

SLANG continued to grow in its core markets of Colorado and Oregon.

Nationwide, Slang launched a new e-commerce platform, through which its best-selling CBD gummies, Lunchbox Alchemy CBD, are now available for purchase online. Production and fulfilment of all e-commerce orders will be handled in-house through SLANG's Oregon and Colorado infrastructure that was acquired in 2020.

In Colorado, Slang signed a strategic partnership agreement with Aver Skin to manufacture, co-package and distribute cannabis-based skincare products, with the potential to expand into additional markets over time.

First Quarter 2021 Financial Review

The consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with IFRS. The following is selected presentation of the Income Statement for the quarter end March 31, 2021:







3 months

ended

31-Mar-21 3 months

ended

31-Mar-20 (In thousands except per share data and percentages) CDN$ CDN$ Net Operating Revenue $9,923 $4,690 Cost of goods sold* 6,224 1,836 Gross profit before gain on fair value of biological assets 3,699 2,854 Realized fair value amounts included in inventory sold 26 - Unrealized gain on changes in fair value of biological assets (11) - Gross Profit 3,714 2,854 Gross Profit Margin 37% 61% Operating expenses 10,322 10,782 Operating Loss (6,608) (7,928) Other items (Impairment, FV adjustment, FX, gains/losses, taxes, etc.) 2,468 ($31,069) Total Comprehensive Income / (Loss) ($9,076) $23,141 Earnings Per Share



Basic ($0.02) $0.08 Diluted ($0.02) $0.07

Non-IFRS Measures

EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted Gross Profit Margin, Branded Unit volume and Branded Servings volume are non-IFRS financial measures that the Company uses to assess its operating performance. EBITDA is defined as net earnings (loss) before net finance costs, income tax expense (benefit) and depreciation and amortization expense. Management defines Adjusted EBITDA as EBITDA adjusted for other non-cash items such as the impact of unrealized fair values, share based compensation expense, impairments, one-time gains and losses, and one-time revenues and expenses. Management defines Adjusted Gross Profit and Adjusted Gross Margin as gross profit and gross margin adjusted for inventory fair value adjustments and fair value changes of biological assets. See the heading "Key Performance Indicators" in the Company's management's discussion and analysis for the three months ended March 31, 2021 (the "Q1 2021 MD&A") for a description of how each of Branded Unit volume and Branded Servings volume is calculated. This data is furnished to provide additional information and are non-IFRS measures and do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS. The Company uses these non-IFRS measures to provide shareholders and others with supplemental measures of its operating performance. The Company also believes that securities analysts, investors and other interested parties, frequently use these non-IFRS measures in the evaluation of companies, many of which present similar metrics when reporting their results. As other companies may calculate these non-IFRS measures differently than the Company, these metrics may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies. We caution readers that Adjusted EBITDA should not be substituted for determining net loss as an indicator of operating results, or as a substitute for cash flows from operating and investing activities.







3 months

ended

31-Mar-21 3 months

ended

31-Mar-20 (In thousands except per share data and percentages) CDN CDN Total Comprehensive Income (Loss) ($9,076) $23,141 EBITDA (4,609) (6,347) Adjusted EBITDA (959) (2,704)

See the Q1 2021 MD&A for a detailed reconciliation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to Operating Income / (Loss). SLANG's financial statements and the Q1 2021 MD&A are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, and on the Company's Investor Relations website at www.slangww.com.

Conference Call Details

Management plans to host an investor conference call today, May 27, 2021, at 10:00 am EDT to discuss the results.

Timing: Thursday, May 27, 2021 at 10:00 am EDT Dial-in: +1.833-529-0214 (U.S. toll free) or +1.236-389-2114 (international) or

+1.647-689-6824 (international) Conference

ID: 9672407 Webcast: A live webcast can be accessed from the Investors section of Company's website at www.slangww.com or at this link.



A replay of the webcast will be archived on the Company's website for one year.

Media and Investor Inquiries

Investors@SLANGww.com



KCSA Strategic Communications

Phil Carlson / Elizabeth Barker

SLANG@kcsa.com

About SLANG Worldwide Inc.

SLANG Worldwide Inc. is a global leader in the cannabis CPG sector with a diversified portfolio of popular brands distributed across the United States. The Company specializes in acquiring and developing market-proven regional brands as well as launching innovative new brands to seize global market opportunities. For more information, please visit www.slangww.com.

To be added to SLANG's email distribution list, please email SLNG@kcsa.com with "SLNG" in the subject.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements." Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements included in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements in respect of the Company's prospects and the distribution of the Company's branded products in its core and emerging markets, the proposed acquisition of ACG and ongoing consolidation of its supply chain in core markets and the impact thereof.

Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management of SLANG at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Applicable risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to regulatory risks, risks related to the COVID-19 global pandemic, changes in laws, resolutions and guidelines, market risks, concentration risks, operating history, competition, the risks associated with international and foreign operations and the other risks identified under the headings "Risk Factors" in SLANG's annual information form dated April 13, 2021and "Risks and Uncertainties" in the Q1 2021 MD&A and other disclosure document available on the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. SLANG is not under any obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law.

Third Party Information

This news release includes market and industry data that has been obtained from third party sources, including industry publications. The Company believes that the industry data is accurate and that its estimates and assumptions are reasonable, but there is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of this data. Third party sources generally state that the information contained therein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but there is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of included information. Although the data is believed to be reliable, the Company has not independently verified any of the data from third party sources referred to in this press release or ascertained the underlying economic assumptions relied upon by such sources.

1 Branded Units Sold and Branded Servings exclude sales in the California market, which the Company exited in 2020.

2 This includes acquisition or consolidation of LBA Global Corporation (now renamed Slang Oregon, Inc.), Peoria Partners, LLC (now renamed Slang Colorado Distribution, LLC), Pleasant Valley Ranch LLC (now renamed Slang Colorado Cultivation, Inc.) and Allied Concessions Group, Inc.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85469
Sun European Partners, LLP ("Sun European Partners" or "Sun European"), a leading private investment firm focused on defensible businesses in growing markets with tangible performance improvement opportunities, today announced that its affiliate has signed a definitive agreement to sell Dreams ("the Company") to Tempur Sealy International (NYSE: TPX), a global manufacturer of mattresses and bedding products.

Founded in 1985 and based in High Wycombe, Dreams is the leading bed and mattress specialist in the UK. The Company sells 11,500 mattresses, bases and headboards per week in the UK through its store network of over 200 sites and online. Dreams was acquired by an affiliate of Sun European in 2013.

Mike Logue, CEO of Dreams said, "Our partnership with the Sun European team has been a great success, and today we are extremely proud that Dreams is the UK's most recommended, specialist bed retailer. Our shared values and focus on delivering a customer-first strategy, combined with Sun European's operational knowledge and our deep retail expertise, enabled the transformation of the business. With Tempur Sealy, we expect to drive our growth further and build on our position as the UK's leading bed retailer".

During Sun European's ownership period, Dreams improved its digital capabilities, streamlined the logistics network and product offering, increased operational efficiencies and strengthened the senior leadership.

"We are extremely pleased that our strategy and the application of our deep operational capabilities have been borne out as Dreams has evolved into a major retail brand with consistent, strong growth and a market-leading position," said Marc Leder, Co-CEO of U.S.-based Sun Capital Partners, Inc., an affiliate of Sun European Partners. "We're confident that Dreams will continue to enjoy success under the ownership of Tempur Sealy."

"Our work with Dreams underscores our strength in partnering with outstanding management teams to accelerate value creation," said Paul Daccus, Managing Director, Sun European Partners, LLP. "We are very pleased that our extensive experience in enhancing operations and capitalizing on new opportunities allowed us to achieve this positive outcome for Dreams and our investors."

About Sun European Partners LLP

Sun European Partners, LLP is a leading private investment advisory firm, focused on partnering with outstanding management teams to accelerate value creation. Since 1995, affiliates of Sun European have invested in more than 420 companies worldwide with revenues in excess of 40 billion across a broad range of industries and transaction structures. The Firm has built a reputation as a trusted partner, recognised for its operational experience. Sun European focuses on defensible businesses in growing markets with tangible performance improvement opportunities in the Business Services, Consumer, Healthcare, Industrial, and Technology sectors. Sun European Partners has offices in London and affiliates with offices in Boca Raton, Los Angeles, and New York.

Further information on Sun European Partners, LLP is available at www.suneuropeanpartners.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005516/en/

Contacts:

Media

UK

Camarco

Candice Adam Julia Tilley

07771 906 073 07815 068 387

SunEuropeanPartners@Camarco.co.uk

US

Stanton

Tom Faust

646-502-3513

TFaust@Stantonprm.com
The YellowDog Platform dramatically scales across the cloud like no other

Cutting-edge Platform as a Service provider creates dynamically scaling compute clusters in hybrid and multi-cloud environments

BRISTOL, England, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- YellowDog, the leading provider of cloud native workload management software, has announced the concept of Meta Scheduling in the latest release of its Platform. Meta Scheduling provides a single workload submission system that can coordinate multiple third-party heterogeneous clusters. This is achieved by allowing users to create and manage dynamically scaling compute clusters, run by a variety of technologies and schedulers.

Meta Scheduling enables the YellowDog Workload Manager to control an overall queue of work and through templating, define the configuration and type of nodes required to execute this work. Once defined, it then orchestrates and pushes workloads to these nodes.

By applying configuration to the worker nodes at particular points in the lifecycle, YellowDog offers flexible event-driven configuration management. Templated configuration can be deployed using scripts or tools, such as Ansible, on specific nodes. The general use case involves the creation of loosely or tightly coupled compute clusters, but sidecars, such as file and DNS servers, can also be deployed for the cluster to use. When the workload has been executed, the cluster can either be dynamically scaled up or down for other tasks or be rapidly dismantled and the instances terminated.

With Meta Scheduling, businesses can benefit from a single view on cost and department consumption across applications. Users can build economically viable compute clusters at scale, in both hybrid and multi-cloud environments, and multiple clusters can be created concurrently to help customers overcome on-premise capacity constraints. Fundamentally, Meta Scheduling enables businesses to utilise a wide range of familiar technologies and processes, whilst taking advantage of the intelligent provisioning strategies provided by the YellowDog Platform.

About YellowDog

YellowDog, founded in 2015 in Bristol, UK, helps business scale across the cloud like no other. The YellowDog Platform is an intelligent, cloud native workload management and provisioning solution, which is used all over the world for multiple applications.

YellowDog works with cloud partners including Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, Google Cloud Platform and Alibaba Cloud.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 27, 2021 / Golden Lake Exploration Inc. (CSE:GLM) ("GLM" or the "Company")(OTCQB:GOLXF) is pleased to announce it has received approval from the BLM for its near-term proposed exploration and drill plan under a "Notice of Intent" ("NOI"), which is limited to five acres of surface disturbance. EM Strategies, based in Reno, Nevada, assisted with the application. The planned surface disturbance included under this Notice consists of constructed drill sites including sumps, improvements to existing roads, and overland travel routes, with planned surface disturbance of approximately 2.49 acres, in the Eureka Tunnel target area. Under the Notice the Company has proposed 35 drill sites. The Eureka Tunnel target covers the carbonate replacement deposit (CRD) bonanza mineralization intersected in hole JR-20-12DD which returned from 15.21 metres to 18.44 metres returned 3.23 metres averaging 57.16 grams per tonne (g/t) gold (Au), 452.0 g/t silver (Ag), 7.23 per cent lead (Pb) and 11.99 per cent zinc (Zn) (see Press Release, February 23rd, 2021).

Mike England, CEO, stated "Securing approval to drill on BLM land is a significant outcome for GLM as the BLM lands are very proximal to our Bonanza hole announced in February. This considerably enhances the opportunities we are pursuing at the Jewel Ridge Project. With drilling underway this immediately gives us the freedom to drill any and all targets plotted to date in the area. Samples from the first two holes have been submitted to the laboratory for analysis."

About the Jewel Ridge Property

The Jewel Ridge property is located on the south end of Nevada's prolific Battle Mountain - Eureka trend, along strike and contiguous to Barrick Gold's Archimedes/Ruby Hill gold mine to the north and Timberline Resources' advanced-stage Lookout Mountain project to the south.

About Golden Lake Exploration Inc.

Golden Lake Exploration is a junior public mining exploration company engaged in the business of mineral exploration and the acquisition of mineral property assets. Its objective is to acquire, explore and develop economic precious and base metal properties of merit and to aggressively advance its exploration program on the Jewel Ridge property.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Mike England"

Mike England, CEO & DIRECTOR

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Telephone: 1-604-683-3995

TollFree:1-888-945-4770

Neither the Canadian Stock Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS: This news release contains forward-looking statements, which relate to future events or future performance and reflect management's current expectations and assumptions. Such forward-looking statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Investors are cautioned that these forward looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ materially from those expected. These forward -looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and by those made in our filings with SEDAR in Canada (available at WWW.SEDAR.COM).

SOURCE: Golden Lake Exploration Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/649392/Golden-Lake-Receives-Approval-to-Drill-on-BLM-Lands-on-the-Jewel-Ridge-Property


WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - In the wake of the San Jose massacre, President Joe Biden has urged the Congress to take immediate action and heed the call of the American people, including the vast majority of gun owners, to help end the epidemic of gun violence in the United States.



Nine people were killed and several others were wounded when a lone gunman opened fire indiscriminately at a county rail yard in San Jose, California, Wednesday.



The gunman, identified as 57-year-old Samuel Cassidy, turned his gun on himself and has reportedly died.



Cassidy, who is said to be an employee at the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority, or VTA, opened fire during the early morning shift change at the light rail yard.



The victims included his colleagues at VTA, a public transit service that operates bus and light rail services in the Santa Clara Valley.



As a mark of respect for the victims, Biden ordered that the U.S. flag be flown at half-staff at the White House and all public buildings and grounds, all military posts and naval stations, and all naval vessels of the Federal Government until May 30.



He also directed that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all U.S. embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad.



Biden had issued similar orders following the mass shootings at spas in and around Atlanta; in a grocery store in Boulder, Colorado; at a home in Rock Hill, South Carolina; and at a FedEx facility in Indianapolis, Indiana.



'Every life that is taken by a bullet pierces the soul of our nation. We can, and we must, do more,' he said in a statement.



Speaking at the crime scene, emotionally charged California Governor Gavin Newsom said, 'What the hell is wrong with the United States of America? When will we put down our arms?'



Biden had signed a set of executive orders last month aimed at curbing gun violence in the wake of a series of mass shootings that shocked the country.



U.S. cities are going through a historic spike in homicides and violence, mainly targeting Black and brown Americans.



Wednesday's incident was the 232nd shooting in the U.S. this year, which has claimed the lives of more than 12000 people, as per the Gun Violence Archive.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

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TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 27, 2021 / EonX Technologies Inc. (CSE:EONX), ("EonX or the "Company) EonX is pleased to announce the listing of its common shares today on the CSE. EonX is a financial technology company providing white-label platforms for large enterprises looking to better engage, reward and securely transact with their members, customers and employees. These enterprise clients on-board their customers to the platform in order to facilitate Payments and generate redeemable eWallet balances, whilst earning Points and accessing exclusive Marketplace Rewards.

The current issued share capital of the Company is 29,400,000 and reported audited FY2020 revenue of $10.8 million. For further information please visit the Company's corporate website at www.eonx.com or the Company's profile at www.thecse.com.

On behalf of the board of directors of

EONX TECHNOLOGIES INC.

"Andrew Kallen"

Andrew Kallen, CEO

For more information about EonX, contact:

Andrew Kallen

Chief Executive Officer

EONX Technologies Inc.

Telephone: +18036767776

Email:investors@eonx.com

Website: www.eonx.com

The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Notice regarding Forward Looking Statements

This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements that describe the Company's future plans, objectives or goals, including words to the effect that the Company or management expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as "believes", "anticipates", "expects", "estimates", "may", "could", "would", "will", or "plan". Since forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties as described in the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulators. 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 information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law.

SOURCE: EonX Technologies Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/649412/EONX-TECHNOLOGIES-INC--Announces-Listing-on-the-CSE
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) -Quadro Resources Ltd. (TSXV: QRO) (OTCQB: QDROF) (FSE: G4O2) ("Quadro" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an exploration update on its recently announced soil sampling and prospecting survey on the Careless Cove property (the "Property"), located southwest of Glenwood in east-central Newfoundland (see Quadro press release dated April 28, 2021). Previous work on the two claim blocks, which comprise the Property, resulted in the discovery of gold mineralization up to 11.38g/t Au from the Eastern Block, and 59.413 g/t Au from the Western Block as described below.

The Property is located within the Central Newfoundland Gold Belt, eleven km southwest of New Found Gold's ("NFG") Keats Zone where drilling is defining a very high grade mineralized zone which includes recent intersections up to 261.3 g/t Au over 7.2m (see NFG press release dated April 20, 2021) and 146.2 g/t Au over 25.6m (see NFG press release dated May 21, 2021). Quadro's claim licenses are partially surrounded by NFG's Queensway Project and are immediately west of the south-southwest striking Appleton Fault Zone corridor, which hosts the Keats Zone mineralization. (Note - Mineralization hosted on the Queensway Project is not necessarily indicative or representative of the mineralization that may be hosted on the Company's property.)

Eastern Claim Block (Careless Cove) - Previous prospecting by Metals Creek Resources ("MEK") in 2020 located two areas of gold mineralization (see MEK news release dated July 30, 2020). Occurrence #1 is comprised of quartz breccia with disseminated and vein hosted pyrite/arsenopyrite with minor stibnite. Three samples taken from outcrop assays are as follows:

Sample Number g/t Au 236102 7.39 236103 0.47 236104 4.15

Follow-up prospecting located rubble (occurrence #2) approximately 50 meters away from occurrence #1. Two samples of this material had the following results.

Sample Number g/t Au 323763 7.37 323764 11.83

Western Claim Block (Yellow Fox) - Initial prospecting was carried out by Metals Creek in 2011, resulting in a concentration of highly anomalous gold values with one sample returning an assay of 59.413 g/t Au (main Yellow Fox showing) (see MEK press release dated June 22, 2011). This led to an enhanced work program which included limited soil sampling and trenching. Trenching was completed across the mineralization and initial sampling consisted of 13 selective grab samples taken throughout the trenches with assay values ranging from 214 ppb to 1877 ppb Au and up to 11.1 % Sb, 5.5% Pb, 7 % Zn and 72.9 g/t Ag. The trenches were then channel sampled along their length using a diamond bladed rock saw. The best result from the channels were from trench #1 which assayed 0.306 g/t Au over 26.82m (a composite from 29 continuous samples) and 4.57% Sb over 1.0m (see Newfoundland Geoscience Resource Atlas Geofile Number: 002D/0779). These results were very encouraging and indicated the potential for a more widespread gold system on the Yellow Fox claim group. No additional work has been carried out since 2011.

Analyses were performed by Eastern Analytical of Springdale, NL with ISO 17025 accreditation. Samples were transported in sealed bags to Eastern and all samples were assayed using industry-standard assay techniques for gold. Gold was analyzed by a standard 30 gram fire assay with an AA finish.

(Note: The surface grab samples described in this news release are selective by nature and are unlikely to represent average grades of the property).

From T. Barry Coughlan (CEO & President): "The soil sampling and prospecting survey has been initiated as a first stage to defining high priority targets for drill testing later in 2021."

Wayne Reid, P. Geo., VP Exploration for Quadro and a qualified person as defined in National Instrument 43-101, is responsible for this release and supervised the preparation of the information forming the basis for this release.

About Quadro Resources - Quadro is a publicly traded mineral exploration company. It is led by an experienced and successful management team and is focused on exploring for gold in North America. The Company's shares trade on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "QRO". Quadro owns a 100% interest in the Staghorn property and has an option to earn a 100% interest in the Long Lake property and the Careless Cove property in Newfoundland and Labrador.

On behalf of the board of directors,

Quadro Resources Ltd.

"T. Barry Coughlan"

President and CEO

Tel (604) 644-9561

info@quadroresources.com





Figure 1: Quadro's Careless Cove Property - Careless Cove and Yellow Fox claims, Central NL Gold Belt.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/5339/85367_867e530c44434a32_002full.jpg





Figure 2: Quadro's Careless Cove Property - Central NL Gold Belt.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/5339/85367_867e530c44434a32_003full.jpg

"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." The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections." For more information on the Company, interested parties should review the Company's filings that are available at www.sedar.com.





To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85367


WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - While reporting financial results for the first quarter on Thursday, Dollar General Corp. (DG) raised its earnings and sales growth guidance for the full-year 2021 to reflect the strong results in the first quarter, which exceeded its expectations.



For fiscal 2021, the company now projects earnings in a range of $9.50 to $10.20 per share on net sales change between a decline of 1 percent and 1 percent growth, with same-store sales decline in the 3 to 5 percent range.



Previously, the company expected earnings in a range of $8.80 to $9.50 per share on net sales change between a decline of 2 percent and flat, with same-store sales decline in the 4 to 6 percent range.



On average, analysts polled by Thomson Reuters expect the company to report earnings of $9.58 per share on net sales growth of 0.5 percent to $33.91 billion for the year. Analysts' estimates typically exclude special items.



On Tuesday, the company's Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.42 per share on the Company's common stock, payable on or before July 20, 2021 to shareholders of record on July 6, 2021.



The Company is also reiterating its plans to execute 2,900 real estate projects in fiscal year 2021, including 1,050 new store openings, 1,750 store remodels, and 100 store relocations.



The company said it believes its first quarter results were positively impacted by consumer behavior related to government stimulus payments that had a significant positive effect on sales in its non-consumable product categories.



For the first quarter, the company reported net income of $677.7 million or $2.82 per share, up from $650.4 million or $2.56 per share in the prior-quarter.



Net sales for the quarter edged down 0.6 percent to $8.40 billion from $8.45 billion in the same quarter last year. Same-store sales decreased 4.6 percent.



The Street was looking for earnings of $2.19 per share on net sales of $7.95 billion for the quarter.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

DOLLAR GENERAL-Aktie komplett kostenlos handeln - auf Smartbroker.de
Includes All Galaxy Products

TOCCOA, GA / ACCESSWIRE / May 27, 2021 / Galaxy Next Generation, Inc. (OTCQB:GAXY) ("Galaxy" or the "Company), a provider of interactive learning technology solutions, is pleased to announce it has been awarded a catalog discount bid by Northwest Independent School District ("Northwest ISD") of Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas.

Northwest ISD catalog bid was awarded to establish multiple annual contracts for discount from catalog for products, which are used mainly in the schools and departments on an as needed basis.

Located in the northwest area of the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex, Northwest ISD has a vision of empowering learners and leaders to positively impact the world. At 234 square miles, Northwest ISD is one of the largest school districts in the area and spans three counties (Tarrant, Denton, and Wise) and 14 municipalities. Northwest ISD operates 19 elementary schools, six middle schools, three comprehensive high schools and one accelerated high school.

With the addition of an estimated 1,200 students during summer months and continued growth, total student enrollment now exceeds 25,200. The district's growth is a result of several factors: the size of the school district; the number of active housing developments; and the attractive housing, retail, and business industries in the immediate area.

Gary LeCroy, Galaxy's Chief Executive Officer, commented, "We are thrilled to have been selected by Northwest Independent School District, as they look to upgrade their in-school learning technology products and communications platform. As is consistent throughout the country, schools have an increasing budget due to federal stimulus programs and are looking to spend a good portion of this money on improving their technology infrastructure and learning solutions."

For additional information on Northwest Independent School District, please visit: https://www.nisdtx.org

About Galaxy Next Generation, Inc.

Galaxy Next Generation (OTCQB:GAXY) is a provider of interactive learning technology solutions that allows the presenter and participant to engage in a fully collaborative instructional environment. Galaxy's products include Galaxy's own private-label interactive touch screen panel as well as numerous other national and international branded peripheral and communication devices. Galaxy's distribution channel consists of 22+ resellers across the U.S. who primarily sell the Company's products within the commercial and educational market. Galaxy does not control where resellers focus their resell efforts, although generally, the K-12 education market is the largest customer base for Galaxy products - comprising nearly 90% of Galaxy's sales.

For additional information, please visit our website at: www.galaxynext.us

Safe Harbor Statement

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. These forward-looking statements are based on the current plans and expectations of management and are subject to a number of uncertainties and risks that could significantly affect the company's current plans and expectations, as well as future results of operations and financial condition. A more extensive listing of risks and factors that may affect the company's business prospects and cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the reports and other documents filed by the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Investors Contact:

IR@GalaxyNext.us

P: 888-859-1274

SOURCE: Galaxy Next Generation, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/649366/Galaxy-Next-Generation-Awarded-Catalog-Discount-Bid-by-Northwest-Independent-School-District-of-DallasFort-Worth-Texas
BERLIN and SAN FRANCISCO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Octily, the dedicated creative studio for Cornerstone OnDemand & Saba Cloud, announced its 50th customer and 200th unique project completed at one of the UK's most esteemed multinational insurance companies. It joins other global brands, including Bosch, Deutsche Post DHL, Electrolux, and Xella, who trust Octily to customize the look & feel, add new functionality, and personalize the talent and learning experience of their 3+ million users.

"Sometimes, our clients have requirements which go beyond the standard of our solution. In those cases, Octily helps us to make the impossible possible," said Thorsten Rusch, Senior Manager Solution Consulting DACH, Nordics & Eastern Europe at Cornerstone OnDemand.

Octily Helps British Multinational to Customize Cornerstone

A British multinational company wanted to "Do More" with Cornerstone. The Digital HR team was excited about Cornerstone's new AI-based "Learner Home" that recommends learning content for each individual employee, but had some unique requirements regarding user experience, ease of navigation, and integration of existing content.

The organization needed to have a bespoke version of the holistic foundation Cornerstone offers out-of-the-box. They wanted their learning experience platform to match the organization's in-house design, being a friendly 'home base' for their employees and encouraging employee interaction.

Octily reviewed the organization's brand guidelines and existing website to determine how to merge the functionality of Cornerstone with the organization's corporate identity. Now, their cloud-based HR platform looks familiar, integrates existing SharePoint content, works better and faster, and is easily administered in-house by the Digital HR team. The native functionality within Cornerstone is untouched, but on the surface, the new entry point for learners looks completely different.

The Digital HR team shared their impressions with Robert Bucher, CEO and "Cheerleader of the team" at Octily. "Our 50th client told me they are delighted with the work of the Octily team and their tailor-made version of Cornerstone. It has made all the difference in the satisfaction of both employees and managers. Working with Octily also took the pressure off their Digital HR team during a very tight go-live schedule," Rob said. "Overall, they are now very happy their work with Cornerstone not only includes the many default configuration options, but also the chance for an own creative, easy and fun twist. The team plans to work with Octily again on future Cornerstone projects," Rob concluded.

Andrew Howes, UK Financial Services Account Manager at Cornerstone said, "After seeing examples of Octily's work, we recommended them to a large UK Financial Services client who needed to quickly develop a consumer grade Employee Experience through a set of focused academies in a very short time frame. The brief was to enable employees to easily get easy access to the right content for their roles and to engage them with further development. Octily accepted the challenge and helped our client to achieve a massively successful launch with significant increases in learner engagement in incredibly short timescales. The ability to give great advice and deliver beyond expectation within time and budget made the project a success at every level."



Octily at Deutsche Post DHL

Cornerstone's global customer, Deutsche Post DHL Group, has worked with Octily on several projects since 2017. "Our initial rollout of Cornerstone OnDemand wasn't optimal as users quickly lost interest in the unfamiliar look and navigation," said Meredith Taghi, responsible for Group Learning, Talent & HR Platform Management at DPDHL. "Working with Octily, we transformed the pages from Cornerstone into our very distinct DPDHL-brand look & feel. We were also able to tweak the navigation and functionality, adding our personality and flow to the platform. The result has been a vast difference in employee acceptance while working with Cornerstone."

Octily at Electrolux

Electrolux's goal was to create a "Custom, Electrolux-brand version of Cornerstone that provides an exceptional experience to the worldwide team, one that incorporates the familiar look & feel and provides a user interface that is inviting, easy-to-use, and fun," according to Christian Bengtsson-Rossby, Director of Digital HR at Electrolux. Working with Octily, Electrolux achieved this goal. "When we need a proven specialist in Cornerstone, we turn to the experts at Octily. They are on the leading edge of Cornerstone development and leverage a unique expertise in their work. Their proven skills are unlike any others we have found. With Octily, we have a trusted partner on our side who understands our needs, responds to our tight schedules, and cheerfully adapts to our ever-changing requirements. We look forward to continuing our work with the Octily team," Christian concluded. Download Electrolux case study: http://octi.ly/electrolux

About Cornerstone

Cornerstone is a premier people development company. Cornerstone believes people can achieve anything when they have the right development and growth opportunities. Cornerstone offers organizations the technology, content, expertise and specialized focus to help them realize the potential of their people. Featuring comprehensive recruiting, personalized learning, modern training content, development-driven performance management and holistic employee data management and insights, Cornerstone's people development solutions are used by more than 6,000 customers of all sizes, spanning more than 75 million users across over 180 countries and nearly 50 languages. Learn more at https://www.cornerstoneondemand.com

About Octily

Octily is the dedicated creative studio with 100% focus on customization and personalization of Cornerstone OnDemand & Saba Cloud. As a long-term Certified Cornerstone OnDemand Partner, Octily leverages nearly two decades of deep work in HR software development and user experience. "Octily makes the impossible - possible." With a team spanning from Berlin, Germany, to San Francisco, USA, Octily is a firm believer in remote work, a small environmental footprint, and maximum use of productivity, communication, and collaboration tools. Over the past five years, Octily has helped global HR teams from more than 50 organizations customize their Cornerstone OnDemand & Saba Cloud. Organizations including Bosch, Deutsche Post DHL, Electrolux, and Xella have trusted Octily in 200+ unique projects for their 3+ million users.

For more information, visit https://octily.com, download http://octi.ly/overview or contact us at octily@octily.com

Related Files

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The board of Joint Stock Company "Olainfarm", hereinafter - the Company, (joint registration No. 40003007246, legal address: 5, Rupnicu Street, Olaine, LV-2114) announces that on June 17, 2021, at 11:00, following additional issues are included in the agenda of the extraordinary shareholders' meeting:



"Approval of the Remuneration Policy for Council and Management boardof the Joint Stock Company "Olainfarm" in a new wording;

"Annulment of the resolution of the meeting of shareholders";

"Amendments of the Joint Stock Company "Olainfarm"Articles of Association, in Article 5";

"Amendments of the Joint Stock Company "Olainfarm"Articles of Association, in Section 6.3.".

The request includes a proposal to include additional issues as the first point of agenda of the extraordinary shareholders' meeting of Joint Stock Company "Olainfarm" June 17, 2021 at 11.00

An additional issue is included at the request of the shareholder of the Joint Stock Company "Olainfarm" Nika Saveljeva, who represents 7.79% of the share capital of the Joint Stock Company "Olainfarm", using the rights specified in the second paragraph of Section 274 of Commercial Law of the Republic of Latvia.

Olaine, May 27, 2021

Board of Joint Stock Company"Olainfarm"

Additional information:

Janis Dubrovskis

Investor Relations Advisor of JSC Olainfarm

Phone: +371 29178878

Email: janis.dubrovskis@olainfarm.com
Thunder Bay, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Metals Creek Resources Corp. (TSXV: MEK) (OTCQB: MCREF) (FSE: M1C1) (the "Company" or Metals Creek, is pleased to announce that the company has been advised by Its Option partner, Quadro Resources Ltd (TSXV: QRO) (OTCQB: QDROF) (FSE: G4O2 ) ("Quadro" ) of an update on its recently announced soil sampling and prospecting survey on the Careless Cove property (the Property) located southwest of Glenwood in east-central Newfoundland (see Quadro press release dated April 28, 2021). The soil sampling and prospecting survey has been initiated as a first stage to defining targets for drill testing later in 2021.

Previous work on the two claim blocks which comprise the Property resulted in the discovery of gold mineralization up to 11.38g/t Au from the Eastern Block and 59.413 g/t Au from the Western Block as described below.

The Property is located within the Central Newfoundland Gold Belt, eleven km southwest of New Found Gold's (NFG.V) Keats Zone where drilling is defining a very high-grade mineralized zone which includes recent intersections up to 146.2 g/t Au over 25.6 meters (see NFG press release dated May 21, 2021). Quadro's claim licenses are partially surrounded by NFG's Queensway Project and are immediately west of the south-southwest striking Appleton Fault Zone corridor, which hosts the Keats Zone mineralization. (Note - Mineralization hosted on the Queensway Project is not necessarily indicative or representative of the mineralization that may be hosted on the Company's property.)

Eastern Claim Block (Careless Cove) - Previous prospecting by Metals Creek Resources ("MEK") in 2020 located two areas of gold mineralization (see MEK news release dated July 30, 2020). Occurrence #1 is comprised of quartz breccia with disseminated and vein hosted pyrite/arsenopyrite with minor stibnite. Three samples taken from outcrop assays are as follows:

Sample Number g/t Au 236102 7.39 236103 0.47 236104 4.15

Follow-up prospecting located rubble (occurrence #2) approximately 50 meters away from occurrence #1 Two samples of this material had the following results.

Sample Number g/t Au 323763 7.37 323764 11.83

Western Claim Block (Yellow Fox) - Initial prospecting was carried out by Metals Creek in 2011, resulting in a concentration of highly anomalous gold values with one sample returning an assay of 59.413 g/t Au (main Yellow Fox showing) (see MEK press release dated June 22, 2011). This led to an enhanced work program which included limited soil sampling and trenching. Trenching was completed across the mineralization and initial sampling consisted of 13 selective grab samples taken throughout the trenches with assay values ranging from 214 ppb to 1877 ppb Au and up to 11.1 % Sb, 5.5% Pb, 7 % Zn and 72.9 g/t Ag. The trenches were then channel sampled along their length using a diamond bladed rock saw. The best result from the channels were from trench #1 which assayed 0.306 g/t Au over 26.82m (a composite from 29 continuous samples) and 4.57% Sb over 1.0m. (see Newfoundland Geoscience Resource Atlas Geofile Number: 002D/0779). These results were very encouraging and indicated the potential for a more widespread gold system on the Yellow Fox claim group. No additional work has been carried out since 2011. (Note: The surface grab samples described in this news release are selective by nature and are unlikely to represent average grades of the property).

Quadro acquired an option to earn a 100% interest in the claim licenses from Metals Creek Resources Corp. (See MEK News Release dated August 10, 2020) The terms of the acquisition are outlined as follows:

To acquire MEK's interest, QRO will issue to MEK a total $100,000 and 1,500,000 shares according to the following schedule:

a) $15,000 and 300,000 on signing; (Paid)

b) $20,000 and 300,000 shares on the first anniversary;

c) $20,000 and 400,000 shares on the second anniversary; and

d) $45,000 and 500,000 shares on the third anniversary

Once QRO is vested at 100% by meeting all the payments above, MEK will retain a 2.0% Net Smelter Return (NSR) royalty on any future mineral production. QRO will have the right to purchase 50% of the NSR from MEK for $1,000,000.

Alexander (Sandy) Stares states, "This option agreement is one of two option agreements (the other being the Clarkes Brook option with General Gold) that gives MEK and its shareholders additional exposure to the Central Newfoundland Gold Belt."

Metals Creek also reports that drilling is ongoing at Dona lake Gold Property and results will be released once they are received and compiled. In addition, exploration permits for prospecting and geochemical sampling have been approved and received for the River Road property in the Central Newfoundland Gold Belt.

Wayne Reid, P. Geo, a Director for the Company and a qualified person as defined in National Instrument 43-101, is responsible for this release, and supervised the preparation of the information forming the basis for this release.

Analyses were performed by Eastern Analytical of Springdale, NL with ISO 17025 accreditation. Samples were transported in sealed bags to Eastern and all samples were assayed using industry-standard assay techniques for gold. Gold was analyzed by a standard 30-gram fire assay with an AA finish.

(Note: The surface grab samples described in this news release are selective by nature and are unlikely to represent average grades of the property).





Figure 1: Quadro's Careless Cove Property - Careless Cove and Yellow Fox claims, Central NL Gold Belt.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/943/85515_dc1c69f9b4dd982e_002full.jpg





Figure 2: Quadro's Careless Cove Property - Central NL Gold Belt



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/943/85515_dc1c69f9b4dd982e_003full.jpg

In addition to its portfolio of projects, Metals Creek also holds a position of equities in other companies such as O3 Mining (OIII), Sokoman Minerals (SIC), Quadro Resources (QRO), Anaconda Mining (ANX), Benton Resources (BEX), White Metal Resources (WHM), Trifecta Gold (TG), Manning Ventures (MANN), Magna Terra Minerals (MTT), General Gold (GGLD) as well as others.

About Metals Creek Resources Corp.

Metals Creek Resources Corp. is a junior exploration Corporation incorporated under the laws of the Province of Ontario, is a reporting issuer in Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario, and has its common shares listed for trading on the Exchange under the symbol "MEK". Metals Creek has earned a 50% interest in the Ogden Gold Property from Newmont Corporation, including the former Naybob Gold mine, located 6 km south of Timmins, Ontario and has an 8 km strike length of the prolific Porcupine-Destor Fault (P-DF). In addition, Metals Creek has signed an agreement with Newmont Corporation, where Metals Creek can earn a 100% interest in the past producing Dona Lake Gold Project in the Pickle Lake Mining District of Ontario.

Metals Creek also has multiple quality projects available for option in Ontario and Newfoundland which can be viewed on the Corporation's website. Parties interested in seeking more information about properties available for option can contact the Corporation at the number below.

Additional information concerning the Corporation is contained in documents filed by the Corporation with securities regulators, available under its profile 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) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Alexander (Sandy) Stares, President and CEO

Metals Creek Resources Corp

telephone: (709)-256-6060

Fax: (709) -256-6061

email: astares@metalscreek.com

www.MetalsCreek.com

Twitter.com/MetalsCreekRes

Facebook.com/MetalsCreek

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85515
Dieppe, New Brunswick--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Colibri Resource Corporation (TSXV: CBI) ("Colibri" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that its option partner Tocvan Ventures Corp. ("Tocvan") has reported assay results from its Phase 2 drill program at Colibri's Pilar Gold-Silver Project.

"Once again, we are impressed by the drilling results released by Tocvan. They have done an excellent job confirming and growing the deposit to date. Colibri is well positioned to continue delivering significant growth in value on many fronts for its shareholders this year!" says Company President & CEO Ron Goguen.

Tocvan is in year two of a five-year option agreement with Colibri to earn an initial 51% ownership of the Pilar Gold-Silver Project. For full details of the agreement see Colibri's news release dated September 24th, 2019.

TOCVAN NEWS RELEASE:

Calgary, Alberta - May 27, 2021. Tocvan Ventures Corp. (CSE: TOC) ("Tocvan" or the "Corporation") is pleased to announce results for the first three holes from its Phase II drill program (the "Program") at the Pilar Gold-Silver Project in Sonora, Mexico. A Phase II drill program is currently in progress with 2,900 meters of reverse circulation (RC) drilling in seventeen (17) drill holes completed to date. Results for the first three drill holes are included in this release. Fourteen (14) drill holes are pending assay results.

Drill Result Highlights

JES-21-38 (Figure 1)

29.0 meters at 0.71 g/t Au from surface to 29.0 meters Including 3.1 meters at 2.6 g/t Au from surface to 3.1 meters Also, Including 6.1 meters at 1.9 g/t Au from 22.9 to 29.0 meters

from surface to 29.0 meters And, 24.4 meters at 0.56 g/t Au from 67.1 to 91.5 meters Including 9.2 meters at 1.3 g/t Au and 14 g/t Ag from 79.3 to 88.5 meters

from 67.1 to 91.5 meters

JES-21-37

6.1 meters at 0.48 g/t Au and 4 g/t Ag (0.52 g/t AuEq) from 59.5 to 65.6 meters

from 59.5 to 65.6 meters And, 4.6 meters at 0.50 g/t Au and 11 g/t Ag (0.62 g/t AuEq) from 71.7 to 76.3 meters Including 1.5 meters at 1.13 g/t Au and 24 g/t Ag (1.4 g/t AuEq) from 71.7 to 73.2 meters

from 71.7 to 76.3 meters

"We are extremely pleased with these early stage results", commented VP Exploration, Brodie Sutherland. "As we advance north of the Main Zone we are finding significant mineralization. We are especially excited to see the continuation of mineralization 30m on strike with our previous drill hole JES-20-36, which intersected 24.2m at 2.5 g/t Au and 73 g/t Ag. Pending assay results for the remaining drill holes will largely focus on our new target areas as we continue to unlock the potential of Pilar."

Results Discussion

JES-21-37 - The hole was planned to test a CSAMT resistivity anomaly that correlated with surface quartz veins. A 6.1m zone was intersected with 0.52 g/t AuEq (see Table 1). Followed by a second zone of 4.6m at 0.62 g/t AuEq. Consistent with surface observations and other drill holes in the area, copper values were elevated in this hole with one interval returning 1.5m at 1.1 g/t Au, 24 g/t Ag and 1.2% Cu.

JES-21-38 - The hole was planned to test the continuation of mineralization intersected in drill hole JES-20-36 and to test 25m up dip and further east of historic drill hole R-8, which intersected 40.4m at 1.4 g/t Au, including 3m at 10.9 g/t Au and 117 g/t Ag. Two zones of significant mineralization were intersected, 29m at 0.71 g/t Au and 24.4m at 0.56 g/t Au. Higher silver values were intersected in the deeper interval with a 3m zone grading 1.5 g/t Au and 34 g/t Ag.

JES21-39 - The hole was planned to test quartz veining and alteration recorded at surface to the west of the Main Zone which directly correlated with an IP anomaly. The hole was also planned to confirm the location of the regional fault bounded biotite granodiorite that lies to the west of the Main Zone. Anomalous gold values (0.18 to 0.47 g/t Au) were intersected in the andesite and granodiorite host rocks.

Figure 1. Cross-Section of Drill Hole JES-21-28.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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Figure 2. Planview Map of Phase II Drill Program Update.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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Table 1. Summary of Drill Results

Hole ID From (m) To (m) Width* (m) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) AuEq (g/t) JES-21-37 59.48 65.58 6.10 0.48 4 0.52 and 71.67 76.25 4.58 0.50 11 0.62 including 71.67 73.20 1.53 1.13 24 1.39

JES-21-38 0.00 28.98 28.98 0.71 2 0.73 including 0.00 3.05 3.05 2.59 2 2.62 also 22.88 28.98 6.10 1.87 0 1.87 and 67.10 91.50 24.40 0.56 6 0.62 including 79.30 88.45 9.15 1.27 14 1.41 including 83.88 86.92 3.04 1.51 34 1.87

JES-21-39 39.65 41.17 1.52 0.47 1 0.48





*Insufficient drilling has been undertaken to determine true widths. All widths reported are core length. Gold equivalent ("AuEq") is calculated using metal prices of $1,700/oz gold and $18/oz silver.

About the Pilar Property

The Pilar Gold-Silver property is interpreted as a structurally controlled low-sulphidation epithermal project hosted in andesite rocks. Three zones of mineralization have been identified in the north-west part of the property from historic surface work and drilling and are referred to as the Main Zone, North Hill and 4-Trench. Structural features and zones of mineralization within the structures follow an overall NW-SE trend of mineralization. Over 19,200 m of drilling have been completed to date. Significant results are highlighted below:

2020 Phase I RC Drilling Highlights include ( all lengths are drilled thicknesses ): 94.6m @ 1.6 g/t Au, including 9.2m @ 10.8 g/t Au and 38 g/t Ag; 41.2m @ 1.1 g/t Au, including 3.1m @ 6.0g/t Au and 12 g/t Ag ; 24.4m @ 2.5 g/t Au and 73 g/t Ag, including 1.5m @ 33.4 g/t Au and 1,090 g/t Ag

17,700m of Historic Core & RC drilling. Highlights include: 61.0m @ 0.8 g/t Au 16.5m @ 53.5g/t Au and 53 g/t Ag 13.0m @ 9.6 g/t Au 9.0m @ 10.2 g/t Au and 46 g/t Ag



Soil and Rock sampling results from undrilled areas indicate mineralization extends towards the southeast from the Main Zone and 4-Trench Zone. Recent Surface exploration has defined three new target areas: Triple Vein Zone, SE Vein Zone and 4 Trench Extension.

Brodie A. Sutherland, P.Geo., VP Exploration for Tocvan Ventures Corp. and a qualified person ("QP") as defined by Canadian National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this release.

Quality Assurance / Quality Control

RC chips were shipped for sample preparation to ALS Limited in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico and for analysis at the ALS laboratory in North Vancouver. The ALS Hermosillo and North Vancouver facilities are ISO 9001 and ISO/IEC 17025 certified. Gold was analyzed using 50-gram nominal weight fire assay with atomic absorption spectroscopy finish. Over limits for gold (>10 g/t), were analyzed using fire assay with a gravimetric finish. Silver and other elements were analyzed using a four-acid digestion with an ICP finish. Over limit analyses for silver (>100 g/t) were re-assayed using an ore-grade four-acid digestion with ICP-AES finish. Control samples comprising certified reference samples and blank samples were systematically inserted into the sample stream and analyzed as part of the Company's robust quality assurance / quality control protocol.

ABOUT COLIBRI RESOURCE CORPORATION:

Colibri is a Canadian-based mineral exploration company listed on the TSX-V (CBI) and is focused on acquiring and exploring prospective gold & silver properties in Mexico. The Company has six exploration projects of which five currently have exploration programs being executed or planned for 2021. The flagship Evelyn Gold Project is 100% owned and explored by Colibri. The Company has four additional projects, Pilar Gold & Silver Project (optioned to Tocvan Ventures- CSE:TOC), El Mezquite Gold & Silver Project , Jackie Gold & Silver Project, and the Diamante Gold & Silver Project (earn-in agreements with Silver Spruce Resources - TSX.V-SSE) are also currently being actively advanced.

For more information about all Company projects please visit: www.colibriresource.com.

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.

Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:

This news release contains "forward-looking statements". Statements in this press release which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Actual results could differ from those projected in any forward-looking statements due to numerous factors. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the plans, expectations and intentions contained in this press release are reasonable, there can be no assurance that they will prove to be accurate.

For further information:



Ronald J. Goguen, President, Chairperson and Director

Tel: (506) 383-4274

rongoguen@colibriresource.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85512
Hammerle will join Executive Board on July 1, 2021

Andreas Hammerle will join the Executive Board of Kapsch TrafficCom as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) with effect from July 1, 2021. He currently holds the position of Executive Vice President Finance at the company.

Commenting on the appointment, Georg Kapsch, Chief Executive Officer of Kapsch TrafficCom says: "I would like to congratulate Andreas Hammerle and welcome him as a new colleague in the Executive Board. He is an experienced executive leader who had an important role in navigating KTC through a transformation phase and who strongly contributed to achieving substantial improvements of our financial situation. I am confident that with his extensive experience and knowledge specifically in finance the company is well prepared for the future."

Andreas Hammerle: "I feel honored and excited to take up my new role as Chief Financial Officer at Kapsch TrafficCom. I am looking forward to working together with a great team and I am confident that we will successfully write the next chapter of the company's development."

Hammerle held various management and executive board positions before working for Kapsch TrafficCom. He has long-standing international experience in the branded products industry as well as the service and retail sectors. The main focus of his work has been on corporate development, change management, mergers acquisition, restructuring, compliance and controlling in change situations.

Photo and Press release download: https://www.kapsch.net/ktc/info-point/presse/ktc-20210527-pr-en

Kapsch TrafficCom is a globally renowned provider of transportation solutions for sustainable mobility. Innovative solutions in the application fields of tolling, tolling services, traffic management and demand management contribute to a healthy world without congestion.

Kapsch has brought projects to fruition in more than 50 countries around the globe. With one-stop solutions, the company covers the entire value chain of customers, from components to design and implementation to the operation of systems.

As part of the Kapsch Group and headquartered in Vienna, Kapsch TrafficCom has subsidiaries and branches in more than 25 countries. It has been listed in the Prime Market segment of the Vienna Stock Exchange since 2007 (ticker symbol: KTCG). In its 2020/21 financial year, around 4,660 employees generated revenues of about EUR 500 million.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005119/en/

Contacts:

Carolin Treichl

Executive Vice President Marketing Communications

Kapsch Aktiengesellschaft

T +43 50 811 1710

carolin.treichl@kapsch.net
FEops strengthens its position as the cloud-based digital health player in the structural heart space by introducing Artificial Intelligence into its CE marked FEops HEARTguide platform.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005431/en/

FEops HEARTguide is a one-in-its-kind procedure planning platform for structural heart interventions that provides physicians with unique insights to evaluate device sizing and positioning pre-operatively. The platform uses digital twin technology based on patient-specific virtual replicas of the heart, and is now being extended with AI-enabled anatomical analyses

"Adding AI enhances the scalability of FEops HEARTguide significantly. This will help the processing of medical images providing a full anatomical analysis on top of FEops' unique digital twin technology, said Peter Mortier PhD, co-founder and CTO.

FEops HEARTguide is currently commercially available in the European Union, UK, Canada and Australia for its TAVI and LAAo workflows and is expected to be regulatory cleared to enter the US market later this year for its LAAo workflow.

"With FEops HEARTguide, we aim to improve and expand personalized treatment for patients with structural heart diseases. It is our vision that combining digital twins with validated and AI-enabled anatomical analyses generates consistent and accurate data-driven insights that enhance procedure planning and periprocedural guidance in an unprecedented way," said Matthieu De Beule PhD, co-founder and CEO.

About FEops HEARTguide

FEops HEARTguideTM cloud-based procedure planning environment uses digital twin technology to provide clinicians and medical device manufacturers with first-ever insights into the interaction between transcatheter structural heart devices and specific patient anatomy preoperatively. Additionally, this includes now also a range of quality controlled, validated and AI-enabled anatomical analyses. The current release includes TAVI and LAAO workflows. Such insights have the power to help ultimately to improve clinical outcomes in real-world hospital settings, as well as to accelerate research and development of novel device-based solutions.

About FEops

Privately held FEops, headquartered in Gent, Belgium, is a digital health player offering cloud-based procedure planning solutions in the structural heart space combining digital twin and AI technologies. In September 2017, FEops announced that it closed a 6 million euros financing, led by Valiance, and joined by existing investors Capricorn Partners and PMV. In December 2019, FEops has been awarded a grant of Euro 3.2 million from the European Innovation Council (EIC) accelerator programme.

www.feops.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005431/en/

Contacts:

Press

Matthieu De Beule, PhD

CEO

Tel: 32 9 292 80 30

Email: matthieu.debeule@feops.com
Rodent Models Originating in China Can Be Imported Into Virtually Any Academic Vivarium Without Quarantine

RENSSELAER, N.Y., May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Taconic Biosciences, a global leader in providing drug discovery animal model solutions, announces a significant enhancement to the Taconic-Cyagen Model Generation Alliance allowing seamless importation of new genetically engineered models originating in China under the TruIMPORT umbrella.



Researchers at non-profit institutions play a critical role in drug discovery; however, outsourcing animal model generation can be cost prohibitive or a logistical challenge. Hurdles in accessing animal model resources can impede important research. Potential solutions to this problem have traditionally come with trade-offs. Depending on the country of origin, cost effective options can require a lengthy quarantine of the animals or additional breeding to ensure animals meet the required health standards for entry into the institution's animal facility. These additional steps can cost the researcher both time and money.

Originally launched in 2018, the Taconic-Cyagen Model Generation Alliancerepresents an important evolution in this service offering. It allows animal models from China to be imported into United States and European animal facilities while complying with existing vivarium requirements. Providing a set of choices, TruIMPORT allows customers to access efficient model generation with several pricing options depending on desired delivery timeline, health standard, and cohort size.

"Our main goal is to solve problems for our customers," shared Dr. John Couse, vice president of scientific services for Taconic. "While the Alliance has provided efficient model generation for years, importation concerns were a barrier for many customers. By creating multiple options under the TruIMPORT umbrella, customers can now import rodent models from China without quarantine regardless of the requirements of their vivarium."

The TruIMPORT portfolio consists of three importation options: RapidRELAY, RapidCHECK, and RapidEXPANSION. Customers can compare product specifications hereto determine which represents the right combination of timeline, health standards, and deliverables to meet their needs.

About Taconic Biosciences, Inc.

Taconic Biosciencesis a fully-licensed, global leader in genetically engineered rodent models and services. Founded in 1952, Taconic provides the best animal solutions so that customers can acquire, custom-generate, breed, precondition, test, and distribute valuable research models worldwide. Specialists in genetically engineered mouse and rat models, microbiome, immuno-oncology mouse models, and integrated model generation and colony management services, Taconic operates three service laboratories and six breeding facilities in the U.S. and Europe, maintains distributor relationships in Asia and has global shipping capabilities to provide animal models almost anywhere in the world.

About Cyagen Biosciences, Inc.

Cyagen Biosciencesis a leading provider of comprehensive genetically engineered rodent model services. Cyagen utilizes a highly efficient process, including its proprietary AI technology, to design and deliver novel genetically engineered models with precision and competitive pricing. The Cyagen Transgenic Animal Center (CTAC) in China is a state-of-the-art, specific-pathogen free (SPF) barrier facility, which is both AAALAC accredited and OLAW assured. Cyagen has additional locations in the United States, Japan, and China. Since Cyagen's founding in 2005, we have delivered over 78,400 animal models to researchers worldwide and have been cited in over 4,700 publications.

Media Contact:

Kelly Owen Grover

Director of Marketing Communications

518-478-6095

kelly.grover@taconic.com
Transaction Supports Expansion of Lessor's Growing South African Customer Base

ACIA Aero Leasing ("ACIA"), a leading provider of regional aircraft leasing and lease management services, today announced the purchase of two Embraer ERJ145 aircraft from Jetcraft Commercial ("Jetcraft"), the commercial aircraft division of a global leader in jet sales and acquisitions, Jetcraft.

The aircraft covered under the sale transaction, structured by Jetcraft and sourced from HOP! Air France, will be ferried over to Johannesburg, South Africa and Toulouse, France for pre-delivery maintenance work before entering into service with ACIA's existing airline customers.

"It's been a pleasure working with the Jetcraft and HOP! Air France teams on executing this aircraft acquisition," commented ACIA Aero Leasing Chief Executive Officer Mick Mooney, adding that the transaction is part of continued efforts to strengthen ACIA's already significant footprint in South Africa. "We look forward to future collaboration with Jetcraft as we provide the region's airlines with access to a diverse inventory of aircraft and customized financing solutions."

Raphael Haddad, President of Jetcraft Commercial, said: "Jetcraft has been successful in structuring the sale of numerous aircraft from the HOP! Air France portfolio over the last twelve months. We're seeing an increasing requirement among operators for the ERJ145 type due to its operating capabilities. We hope to work with ACIA to facilitate the lessor's further acquisitions of the aircraft type."

The ERJ145 is well suited for harsh operating environments, according to the ACIA team, who believe the aircraft type provides right-sized capacity and operating economics that meet the specific needs of African operators.

"We are currently working on additional mandates to acquire aircraft for our existing customers in Africa," disclosed Mooney, specifying that they include ATRs in cargo and passenger configurations, as well as larger Embraer and CRJ jets. "We'll be announcing these acquisitions in the very near term."

About Jetcraft Commercial

Jetcraft Commercial is the commercial aircraft division of global aviation trading firm Jetcraft, supporting airlines and operators in the fields of buying, selling, leasing, marketing and financing their aircraft. With an unmatched network and team of sales and marketing executives in every major market across the world, Jetcraft Commercial is a nimble and dedicated partner within the commercial aircraft sales and leasing community and is uniquely able to offer the value, choice and flexibility that the world's best companies demand. www.jetcraft.com/inventory/commercial

About ACIA Aero Leasing

ACIA Aero Leasing ("ACIA"), a subsidiary of ACIA Aero Capital, is a leading regional aircraft lessor with offices in Ireland, Mauritius, France, Canada, and South Africa. ACIA manages a current aircraft portfolio of over 50 regional passenger and freighter aircraft on lease to operators in more than 15 countries globally. Through our strategic partnerships, ACIA provides airlines with turn-key leasing solutions from dry leasing through to charter operations. www.aciaaeroleasing.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005525/en/

Contacts:

Media contact: Sophie McAuley, Zeevo Group

+1 334 373 4611 // +44 7921 188870 // smcauley@zeevogroup.com
New Specialized Think Tank SpaceTech Analytics Has Profiled and Analysed National Space Programmes, 150 R&D Hubs and Associations, and 130 Governmental Organizations

SpaceTech Analytics, a new spin-off of Deep Knowledge Group's flagship subsidiary, Deep Knowledge Analytics, announces the release of an open-access 40-page special analytical case study, "National Space Programmes 2021 Q2 Activity Overview," designed to provide tangible insights and trends on companies and investors.

Report: www.spacetech.global/case-studies

Dashboard: www.spacetech.global/dashboard

The release delivers information about major industry trends and sector insights on 50+ countries with space exploration programs, 150 R&D hubs and associations, and 130 governmental organizations. This is a part of an inaugural 165-page case study 'SpaceTech Industry Landscape Overview', dedicated to providing information about other segments of the space industry. It has a special analytical case study, interactive mindmaps, and associated IT-Platform, which distil the major trends and key insights of the project for easy consumption by strategic decision makers.

The report mentions countries that are currently at the forefront of the industry. The USA is leading the industry with NASA. China catches up in the "space race" and strives to cooperate with the Russian Federation. The Indian Space Research Organization has a strong SpaceTech agenda and is expected to have an even faster development rate. The information about agencies founded by the United Arab Emirates, Japan and a cooperation of European countries can also be found in a report.

Some of the analysis's takeaways include the following:

The analysis revealed a trend of cooperation between various agencies, including private companies (NASA and SpaceX; Artemis and Boeing).

The development of governmental agencies has accelerated during the last 10 years.

The number of government space agencies is increasing. There are 11 new agencies that are expected to emerge in the coming years.

About SpaceTech Analytics

SpaceTech Analytics is a strategic analytics agency focused on markets in the Space Exploration, Spaceflight, Space Medicine, and Satellite Tech industries. The range of activities includes research and analysis on major areas of high potential in the SpaceTech industry, maintaining profiling of companies and governmental agencies based on their innovation potential and business activity, and providing consulting and analytical services to advance the SpaceTech sector.

For press and media inquiries, cooperation, collaboration and strategic partnership proposals, please contact: info@spacetech.global

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005559/en/

Contacts:

Oleksii Rud

info@spacetech.global
The Company celebrated its 15th anniversary with two deals inked in one day.

XIAMEN, China, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- On May 26th, Antaisolar, a leading supplier of whole industry chain in PV mounting system, celebrated its 15th anniversary by announcing its 2GW solar racking signing agreement with One Stop Warehouse (OSW), the largest distributor in Australia, and strategic cooperation with Paramount Group (Paramount) in Bangladesh.

2GW solar racking cooperation with OSW

According to the agreement, Antaisolar will supply 2GW solar racking to OSW from 2021 to 2024.

"We're proud to achieve this milestone of 2GW cooperation agreement with OSW on our 15th anniversary. OSW has been deeply involved in Australia for many years and was awarded one of Australia's fastest-growing Top 500 private companies in 2019. We're excited to joint with OSW as it's a vital opportunity to drive greater growth and accelerate local energy transition," said Jasmine Huang, Antaisolar's president.

"Antaisolar has been our valued partner and widely recognized by its high quality products and all-around service. The strategic partnership will enhance the advantages possessed by both parties in the solar power industry, allowing complementary efforts for fueling the transition to a low carbon economy," said Anson Zhang, OSW's CEO.

Strategic partnership with Paramount Group

Antaisolar has partnered with Paramount on a 40MW utility solar project earlier this year. Bangladesh is the best option for establishing cooperation as it's becoming a hotspot for the solar industry. The agreement calls for further cooperation in solar racking portfolios for thriving utility sector. Through the collaboration, Paramount and Antaisolar will team up to promote the energy transition in Bangladesh.

Antaisolar's 15th anniversary was injected with fresh impetus by the two strategic cooperation agreements. With the vision of "Backbone for Solar World", Antaisolar will joint with global partners to achieve carbon-neutrality and heading to the next 15 years.

About Antaisolar:

Antaisolar, established in 2006, has a vast expertise in Solar Mounting & Tracking System with over 800 employees including a R&D team composed of 80 specialists. Antaisolar has been continuously optimizing the global service by globally setting up over 20 branches and offices.

Up to now, its cumulative solar racking shipments have reached 15GW and ranked No.1 of export volume to Japan for seven consecutive years and ranked top 1 in Australian and Vietnam distribution market.

Contact:

www.antaisolar.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1519891/Antaisolar_online_signing_ceremony.jpg
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / May 27, 2021 / Gabriel Resources Ltd. (TSXV:GBU) ("Gabriel" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into definitive subscription agreements with certain investors in connection with a non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement") of up to 30,444,800 common shares of the Company ("Common Share") at a price of $0.245 per Common Share ("Purchase Price") for gross proceeds of up to US$6.0 million (approximately $7.5 million), subject to stock exchange and other approvals as applicable.

The Purchase Price has been fixed at the closing price of the Common Shares on the trading day immediately preceding this announcement. The number of Common Shares to be issued pursuant to the Private Placement represents approximately 4.9% of the Common Shares currently issued and outstanding on a non-diluted basis.

Insiders of the Company have subscribed for 19,768,194 Common Shares for gross proceeds of US$3.90 million under the Private Placement. The issuance of Common Shares to insiders pursuant to the Private Placement will constitute a 'related party transaction' within the meaning of TSX Venture Exchange Policy 5.9 and Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company intends to rely on certain exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(a), 5.5(b) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 in respect of related party participation in the Private Placement, as the Company is not listed on specified markets and neither the fair market value (as determined under MI 61-101) of the subject matter of, nor the fair market value of the consideration for, the transaction, insofar as it involves the related parties, exceeds 25% of the Company's market capitalization (as determined under MI 61-101).

The closing of the Private Placement is subject to certain conditions, including, but not limited to, the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange ("Exchange") and the receipt of all other applicable approvals. Accordingly, there is no assurance that the Company will be successful in completing the Private Placement. On receipt of approvals, it is anticipated that the Private Placement will close on or about June 10, 2021 or such earlier or later date as may be determined by the Company, subject to satisfaction or waiver by the relevant party of the conditions of closing. The Common Shares to be issued on closing of the Private Placement are subject to a statutory 4-month hold period.

Subject to the receipt of all regulatory approvals, including the approval of the Exchange, the Company may pay a cash finder's fee of up to US$6,000 in connection with the Private Placement in respect of the procurement of certain arm's length subscribers.

The Company is progressing with its arbitration case against Romania before the World Bank's International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes ("ICSID Arbitration") and intends to use the proceeds of the Private Placement to finance the costs of the ongoing ICSID Arbitration and for general working capital requirements.

The Company expects to file a material change report in respect of the related party transaction less than 21 days prior to the closing of the Private Placement, which the Company deems reasonable in the circumstances so as to be able to avail itself of the proceeds of the Private Placement in an expeditious manner.

The securities described herein have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and accordingly may not be offered or sold within the United States or to "U.S. persons", as such term is defined in Regulation S promulgated under the U.S. Securities Act ("U.S. Persons"), except in compliance with the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities requirements or pursuant to exemptions therefrom. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the Company's securities to, or for the account of benefit of, persons in the United States or U.S. Persons.

Convertible Notes Maturity Notice

The Company has $90,862,000 convertible notes ("Notes") in issue, which are convertible, at the option of the holders ("Noteholders"), into Common Shares at a price of $0.3105 per share ("Conversion Price"). The outstanding principal amount of the Notes and accrued interest is repayable by the Company at maturity on June 30, 2021. Under the terms of the Note indenture ("Indenture"), the Company has the option to repay all or a proportion of the principal amount of Notes outstanding at maturity by issuing Common Shares ("Common Share Repayment Right") to the Noteholders.

Gabriel will not be in a position to repay the Notes in cash at maturity and, accordingly, Gabriel has exercised the Common Share Repayment Right by issuing the requisite notice under the Indenture to the Noteholders and the trustee, Computershare Trust Company of Canada.

In accordance with the terms of the Indenture, the number of Common Shares to be issued to each Noteholder pursuant to the Common Share Repayment Right will be calculated at a price equal to 95% of the volume weighted average trading price of a Common Share over a 20 trading day period to June 23, 2021 ("Note Repayment Price"). Gabriel cannot predict or control whether the Note Repayment Price will be higher or lower than the Conversion Price of $0.3105. If the outstanding Notes were converted prior to or at maturity by the Noteholders at the Conversion Price, an aggregate of 292.6m Common Shares would be required to be issued by the Company. If the Note Repayment Price is lower than the Conversion Price, then substantially more Common Shares may be required to be issued to the Noteholders.

For information on this press release, please contact:

Dragos Tanase

President & CEO

Phone: +40 730 399 019

dt@gabrielresources.com

Richard Brown

Chief Financial Officer

Mobile: +44 7748 760276

richard.brown@gabrielresources.com

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.

Further Information

About Gabriel

Gabriel is a Canadian resource company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange. The Company's principal focus has been the exploration and development of the Ro?ia Montana gold and silver project in Romania. The Rosia Montana Project, one of the largest undeveloped gold deposits in Europe, is situated in the South Apuseni Mountains of Transylvania, Romania, an historic and prolific mining district that since pre-Roman times has been mined intermittently for over 2,000 years. The exploitation license for the Rosia Montana Project is held by Ro?ia Montana Gold Corporation S.A., a Romanian company in which Gabriel owns an 80.69% equity interest, with the 19.31% balance held by Minvest Ro?ia Montana S.A., a Romanian state-owned mining company.

Upon obtaining the License in June 1999, the Group focused substantially all of their management and financial resources on the exploration, feasibility and subsequent development of the Rosia Montana Project. Despite the Company's fulfilment of its legal obligations and its development of the Rosia Montana Project as a high-quality, sustainable and environmentally-responsible mining project, using best available techniques, Romania has blocked and prevented implementation of the Rosia Montana Project without due process and without compensation. Accordingly, the Company's current core focus is the ICSID Arbitration. For more information please visit the Company's website at www.gabrielresources.com.

Forward-looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking information" (also referred to as "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's current expectations and plans and allowing investors and others to get a better understanding of the Company's operating environment. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements.

In this press release, forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies that may cause the Company's actual financial results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied herein. Some of the material factors or assumptions used to develop forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the uncertainties associated with: the ICSID Arbitration, actions by the Romanian Government, conditions or events impacting the Company's ability to fund its operations (including but not limited to the completion of further funding noted above) or service its debt, exploration, development and operation of mining properties and the overall impact of misjudgments made in good faith in the course of preparing forward-looking information.

Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors including those set out below, that may never materialize, prove incorrect or materialize other than as currently contemplated which could cause the Company's results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, identified by words or phrases such as "expects", "is expected", "is of the view", "anticipates", "believes", "plans", "projects", "estimates", "assumes", "intends", "strategy", "goals", "objectives", "potential", "possible" or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events, conditions or results "may", "could", "would", "should", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of fact and may be forward-looking statements.

Numerous factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements, including without limitation:

the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) may affect the Company's operations and/or the anticipated timeline for the ICSID Arbitration;

the duration, required disclosure, costs, process and outcome of the ICSID Arbitration;

the advancement of Romania's nomination of the "Rosia Montana Mining Landscape" as a UNESCO World Heritage site;

changes in the liquidity and capital resources of Gabriel, and/or the group of companies of which it is directly or indirectly parent;

access to funding to support the Group's continued ICSID Arbitration and/or operating activities in the future;

equity dilution resulting from the conversion or exercise of new or existing securities in part or in whole to Common Shares;

the ability of the Company to maintain a continued listing on the TSX Venture Exchange or any regulated public market for trading securities;

the impact on business strategy and its implementation in Romania of: any allegations of historic acts of corruption, uncertain fiscal investigations; uncertain legal enforcement both for and against the Group and political and social instability;

regulatory, political and economic risks associated with operating in a foreign jurisdiction including changes in laws, governments and legal regimes and interpretation of existing and future fiscal and other legislation;

volatility of currency exchange rates; and

the availability and continued participation in operational or other matters pertaining to the Group of certain key employees and consultants.

This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of the Company's forward-looking statements.

Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and investors should not infer that there has been no change in the Company's affairs since the date of this press release that would warrant any modification of any forward-looking statement made in this document, other documents periodically filed with or furnished to the relevant securities regulators or documents presented on the Company's website. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this notice. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements or the foregoing list of assumptions or factors, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, subject to the Company's disclosure obligations under applicable Canadian securities regulations. Investors are urged to read the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulatory agencies which can be viewed online at www.sedar.com.

ENDS

SOURCE: Gabriel Resources Ltd.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/649417/Gabriel-Resources-Ltd-Private-Placement-Convertible-Note-Maturity-Notice
Vaughan, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Spyder Cannabis Inc. (TSXV: SPDR) ("Spyder" or the "Company"), an established Canadian cannabis and vape retailer, is pleased to announce that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Spyder Cannabis Subco Inc. ("Spyder Subco"), has received Retail Store Authorization ("RSA") from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (the "AGCO") for its cannabis dispensary located at 776 Liverpool Rd., Unit 4, Pickering, Ontario, L1W 1S2.

Pending completion of a Pre-Store Opening Inspection by the AGCO, Spyder Subco will then be permitted to begin operating its second cannabis dispensary in Ontario under the SPDR Cannabis brand selling recreational cannabis products and consumption accessories.

Dan Pelchovitz, CEO of Spyder Subco, commented, "This new retail store is expected to be one of the first licensed dispensaries permitted to open in Pickering that has a growing population of approximately 100,000 residents and draws from a labour force of nearly 6 million from across the GTA. Leveraging our recent 180 Smoke acquisition, we have also begun converting two vape retail locations in Oshawa and Niagara Falls into cannabis dispensaries. We anticipate to apply for RSAs for these locations upon completion of our buildouts. We are excited to further our retail footprint across Ontario in underserved communities with our brand name and best-in-class customer service."

The Company is also pleased to announce that it has begun converting its two Spyder Vapes retail locations in Woodbridge and Scarborough under the 180 Smoke brand name, creating one of the largest specialty vape retail chains in Canada with 26 and growing retail locations across Ontario and a robust e-commerce platform with over 95,000 registered customers.

About Spyder Cannabis Inc.

Spyder is an established cannabis and vape retailer that owns and operates two licensed-dispensaries under the brand SPDR Cannabis in Ontario and Alberta and the vape retail brands 180 Smoke and Spyder Vapes. 180 Smoke is a leading omni-channel Canadian vape retailer with 26 locations across Ontario and a strong e-commerce presence with over 95,000 registered customers. 180 Smoke and Spyder Vapes retail stores sell vape and nicotine-related products, herbal vaporizers and accessories, and other smoking cessation products. Spyder's vape brands are committed to help adult smokers who seek alternatives to traditional combustible tobacco products.

Cautionary Statements

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance of the Company. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "may", "projected", "estimated" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. In particular, this release contains forward-looking information relating to the Company successfully satisfying and completing the Pre-Store Opening Inspection with the AGCO for its Pickering retail location, applying for additional RSAs with the AGCO and successfully converting Spyder Vapes retail locations to that of the 180 Smoke brand name. Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to the parties. The material factors and assumptions include that the Company's management possesses the skills and competencies necessary to increase the Company's retail footprint, regulatory and other third-party approvals and licensing. Forward-looking information necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Such risks and factors include, but are not limited to, the risk that the Company's management is unable to obtain licensing and other regulatory approvals necessary to open its Pickering retail dispensary and converting additional vape retail locations to cannabis dispensaries. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof and the parties are not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein.

For further information, please contact:

Spyder Cannabis Inc.

Cameron Wickham

Executive Vice Chair & CEO

T: (905) 330-1602

E: corporate@spydercannabis.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85406
LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / May 27, 2021 / Gabriel Resources Ltd. (TSXV:GBU) ("Gabriel" or the "Company") announces the publication of its First Quarter Financial statements and Management's Discussion and Analysis Report for the period ended March 31, 2021.

Summary

Gabriel remains focused on the progression of its arbitration case brought by the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Gabriel Resources (Jersey) Ltd., (together "Claimants") against the Romanian State ("Respondent") under the rules of the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes ("ICSID"), part of the World Bank ("ICSID Arbitration"): Following the second oral hearing on the merits of the claim held in Q4 2020 ("Second Hearing"), the presiding tribunal ("Tribunal") invited the Claimants and Respondent to make further written submissions ("Post-Hearing Briefs"). On February 18, 2021 and April 23, 2021 the Claimants and Respondent each filed simultaneous Post-Hearing Briefs in order to comment in conclusion on the evidentiary record, the final substantive submissions by the parties in the ICSID Arbitration. In the absence of any further questions from the Tribunal or other procedural interventions, it is anticipated that the Tribunal will now focus on its deliberations ahead of a final decision ("Award"), which typically could require twelve to eighteen months to finalize after the Post-Hearing Briefs submission.

The net loss for the first quarter of 2021 was $8.6 million (Q4 2020 $7.4 million).

As at March 31, 2021, the Company held $2.5 million of cash and cash equivalents (Q4 2020 $6.4 million).

On May 27, 2021, the Company announced a non-brokered private placement (the "2021 Private Placement") of up to 30,444,800 common shares of the Company ("Common Shares") at a price of $0.245 each for gross proceeds of up to US$6.0 million (approximately $7.5 million). Assuming closing of the 2021 Private Placement, the Company believes it will have sufficient funding necessary to cover its planned activities through to January 2022 and will need to raise additional financing in the medium-term.

Gabriel also announced on May 27, 2021 that it had issued notice of its intention to repay all of the $90,862,000 principal amount of the convertible notes ("Notes") outstanding at maturity on June 30, 2021 by issuing Common Shares to the noteholders.

Ms. Anna El-Erian, Mr. James Lieber and Mr. Jeffrey Couch were elected as non-executive directors of the Company with effect from January 21, 2021.

The Company has set August 3, 2021 as the date for its next annual general meeting of shareholders of ("AGM") and will file a notice of meeting and record date and its management information circular in due course

Dragos Tanase, Gabriel's President and Chief Executive Officer, stated:

"The submission of the Post-Hearing Briefs represents another important milestone in our ICSID Arbitration claim and marks the closing phase of a six-year effort by the Company's personnel, counsel and technical, legal and financial experts to present Gabriel's claim against Romania. Subject to any further requests of the Tribunal, we now look forward to receiving a final decision from the Tribunal in due course. In the meantime, the Board will continue to assess the strategic path forward for Gabriel."

Throughout the ICSID Arbitration process, we have appreciated the patience and continued support of our shareholders and the raising of additional funds will allow the Company to further advance its core strategic objectives, including optimizing the chances of success in the ICSID Arbitration."

Further information and commentary on the results in the first quarter of 2021 is given below. The Company has filed its Unaudited Condensed Interim Consolidated Financial Statements for Q1 2021 and related Management's Discussion & Analysis on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and each is available for review on the Company's website at www.gabrielresources.com.

For information on this press release, please contact:

Dragos Tanase

President & CEO

Phone: +40 730 399 019

dt@gabrielresources.com

Richard Brown

Chief Financial Officer

Mobile: +44 7748 760276

richard.brown@gabrielresources.com

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.

Further Information

Impact of Coronavirus

With respect to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), Gabriel continues to consider carefully its impact, noting the widespread disruption to normal activities and the uncertainty over the duration of this disruption. The highest priority of the Board of Directors and Management is the health, safety and welfare of the Group's employees and contractors. Gabriel recognizes that the situation is extremely fluid and is monitoring the relevant recommendations and restrictions on work practices and travel. At this time, these recommendations and restrictions do not significantly impact Gabriel's ability to continue the ICSID Arbitration process or conduct the limited operations in Romania, nor has there been a significant impact on the Group's results or operations to date.

The Group will continue to seek new investment and is also looking to sell its long lead-time equipment. The market and timing for each initiative may be adversely affected by the effects of COVID-19. As a result, Gabriel will react to circumstances as they arise and will make any necessary adjustments to the work processes required, including to maintain the ICSID Arbitration calendar. Should any material disruption from COVID-19 affect the Group for an extended duration, Gabriel will review certain planned activities in Romania and take remedial actions if it is determined to be necessary or prudent to do so.

Status of the ICSID Arbitration

The ICSID Arbitration seeks compensation for all of the loss and damage suffered by the Claimants, resulting from the Respondent's wrongful conduct and its breaches of the protections afforded by certain treaties for the promotion and protection of foreign investment to which Romania is a party, including against expropriation, unfair and inequitable treatment, discrimination and other unlawful treatment in respect of the Projects and related licenses.

The Second Hearing on the merits of the claim was held virtually from September 28 to October 4, 2020 and focused on the technical and feasibility-related aspects of the Ro?ia Montana gold and silver project, together with the gold, silver and porphyry copper deposits defined in the Bucium concession area ("Projects"), and the quantum of the damages claimed, including testimony from certain of the parties' fact and expert witnesses.

Subsequent to the Second Hearing the Tribunal invited the parties to make two further simultaneous written submissions in order to comment in conclusion on the full evidentiary record. The Post-Hearing Briefs were filed on February 18, 2021 and April 23, 2021, which mark the final substantive submissions after which the Tribunal may pose further questions, or focus on its deliberations ahead of an Award.

There is no specified timeframe in the ICSID Rules in which an Award is to be made by the Tribunal. The Company is informed that it is typical for tribunals in this type of arbitration to require twelve to eighteen months to finalize and issue a decision after Post-Hearing Briefs are submitted. However, there can be no assurances that the ICSID Arbitration will advance in a customary or predictable manner or be completed or settled within any specific or reasonable period of time.

Board Changes

On January 21, 2021 Gabriel announced the appointment to the Board of Mr. Jeffrey Couch, Ms. Anna El-Erian and Mr. James Lieber as independent non-executive directors, effective immediately. Following these appointments, the Board is composed of seven members, of which three are independent directors. Ms. El-Erian has been appointed Chair of the Board and Chair of the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee. Mr. Couch has been appointed Chair of the Audit Committee and Chair of the Compensation Committee.

UNESCO World Heritage

As previously disclosed, Gabriel understands that Romania's nomination of the 'Rosia Montana Mining Landscape' as a UNESCO World Heritage site will be considered by UNESCO at the deferred 44th session of the World Heritage Committee. This meeting is now scheduled to be held in a virtual online format from Fuzhou, China between July 16 and July 31, 2021.

The act of applying to UNESCO for such designation is wholly incompatible with development of the Project and is an undertaking by Romania to stop development of the subject area and preclude mining.

In early 2020 Gabriel provided notice to Romania of a dispute with regard to Romania's application to UNESCO and has reserved its right to commence a further arbitration if warranted accordingly (the "Notice").

In the Notice, Gabriel confirmed that it is prepared to cooperate in good faith at a senior level with the Romanian Government and other authorities in a process of consultation with regard to the UNESCO application. Gabriel is hopeful that Romania will engage constructively and that it will withdraw its application, however, Romania has yet to respond officially to the Notice.

The issuance of the Notice does not in any way interfere with Gabriel's pursuit of the ICSID Arbitration.

Financial Performance

The net loss for the first quarter of 2021 was $8.6 million, an increase of $1.9 million from a loss of $6.8 million in the corresponding period in 2020, primarily reflecting a $1.4 million foreign exchange gain in 2020 not repeated in 2021 and $0.2 million higher finance costs incurred in the first quarter of 2021 in respect of the convertible debt components of private placements completed in 2014 and 2016.

Operating loss for the first quarter was $6.0 million, some $0.2 million higher than the corresponding period in 2020, arising from $1.3 million higher costs related to the ongoing ICSID Arbitration, reflecting preparation of the Post-Hearing Briefs, offset by $0.2 million of lower costs related to payroll, and $0.9 million lower share-based payments.

Liquidity

Cash and cash equivalents at March 31, 2021 were $2.5 million.

The Company's average monthly cash usage during Q1 2021 was $ 1.3 million (Q4 2020: $2.5 million), the decrease primarily reflecting the reduction in payments related to ICSID Arbitration costs compared to the prior quarter where significant costs had accrued for payment following the Second Hearing.

At March 31, 2021, accruals for costs in respect of the ICSID Arbitration amounted to $3.0 million (Q4 2020: $1.5 million), the significant increase arising due to a focus on Post-Hearing Briefs in the period and the inception of a fee agreement in respect of the deferred payment of certain ICSID Arbitration costs until an Award is issued.

Financing

On May 27, 2021, the Company announced a non-brokered private placement (the "2021 Private Placement") of up to 30,444,800 Common Shares at a price of $0.245 each for gross proceeds of up to US$6.0 million (approximately $7.5 million). Subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange and the receipt of all other applicable approvals, the Company hopes to close the 2021 Private Placement on or about June 10, 2021.

The Company intends to use the proceeds from the 2021 Private Placement to finance the ongoing costs of the ICSID Arbitration and for general working capital requirements.

Repayment of Convertible Notes

The Notes in issue are convertible, at the option of the holders ("Noteholders"), into Common Shares at a price of $0.3105 per share ("Conversion Price"). The outstanding principal amount of the Notes and accrued interest is repayable by the Company at maturity on June 30, 2021. As noted above, the Company has announced that it has given requisite notice to the Noteholders and the trustee of its intention to repay all of the principal amount of Notes outstanding at maturity by issuing Common Shares ("Common Share Repayment Right").

The number of Common Shares to be issued to each Noteholder pursuant to the Common Share Repayment Right will be calculated at a price equal to 95% of the volume weighted average trading price of a Common Share over a 20 trading day period to June 23, 2021 ("Note Repayment Price"). Gabriel cannot predict or control whether the Note Repayment Price will be higher or lower than the Conversion Price of $0.3105. If the outstanding Notes were converted prior to or at maturity by the Noteholders at the Conversion Price, an aggregate of 292.6m Common Shares would be required to be issued by the Company. If the Note Repayment Price is lower than the Conversion Price, then substantially more Common Shares may be required to be issued to the Noteholders.

Capital Resources

On closing of the 2021 Private Placement, the Company believes that it will have sufficient sources of funding to enable the Group to maintain its primary assets, including the exploitation license for the Rosia Montana Project ("License") and associated rights and permits, and to fund general working capital requirements together with the material estimated costs associated with the Company advancing the ICSID Arbitration through to January 2022.

The Group will seek additional funding to maintain its primary assets while it awaits the Award of the Tribunal. The Company does not have sufficient cash to fund either the development of the Project or all the long-term activities related to the ICSID Arbitration, including as appropriate any costs of potential annulment proceedings and/or enforcement of any Award. Accordingly, Gabriel will need to raise additional funding for general working capital purposes and to pursue the ICSID Arbitration to its conclusion.

Notwithstanding the Company's recent and historic funding, there is a risk that sufficient additional financing may not be available to the Company on acceptable terms, or at all.

Annual General Meeting

The Company intends to hold its AGM on August 3, 2021. It is hoped that the public health measures and restrictions on gatherings enacted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic may have been relaxed by that date to enable attendance by shareholders and a decision will be taken by the Company nearer the time on the format of the meeting, in the interests of protecting the health and well-being of its shareholders, colleagues, communities and other stakeholders. In due course, the Company will file a notice of meeting and record date and its management information circular under its profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

About Gabriel

Gabriel is a Canadian resource company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange. The Company's principal business had been the exploration and development of the Ro?ia Montana gold and silver project in Romania. The Rosia Montana Project, one of the largest undeveloped gold deposits in Europe, is situated in the South Apuseni Mountains of Transylvania, Romania, an historic and prolific mining district that since pre-Roman times has been mined intermittently for over 2,000 years. The exploitation license for the Rosia Montana Project is held by Ro?ia Montana Gold Corporation S.A., a Romanian company in which Gabriel owns an 80.69% equity interest, with the 19.31% balance held by Minvest Ro?ia Montana S.A., a Romanian state-owned mining company.

Upon obtaining the License in June 1999, the Group focused substantially all of their management and financial resources on the exploration, feasibility and subsequent development of the Rosia Montana Project. Despite the Company's fulfilment of its legal obligations and its development of the Rosia Montana Project as a high-quality, sustainable and environmentally-responsible mining project, using best available techniques, Romania has unlawfully blocked and prevented implementation of the Rosia Montana Project without due process and without compensation. Accordingly, the Company's current core focus is the ICSID Arbitration. For more information please visit the Company's website at www.gabrielresources.com.

Forward-looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking information" (also referred to as "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's current expectations and plans and allowing investors and others to get a better understanding of the Company's operating environment. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements.

In this press release, forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies that may cause the Company's actual financial results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied herein.

Some of the material factors or assumptions used to develop forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the uncertainties associated with: the ICSID Arbitration, actions by the Romanian Government, conditions or events impacting the Company's ability to fund its operations (including but not limited to the completion of further funding noted above) or service its debt, exploration, development and operation of mining properties and the overall impact of misjudgments made in good faith in the course of preparing forward-looking information.

Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors including those set out below, that may never materialize, prove incorrect or materialize other than as currently contemplated which could cause the Company's results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, identified by words or phrases such as "expects", "is expected", "is of the view", "anticipates", "believes", "plans", "projects", "estimates", "assumes", "intends", "strategy", "goals", "objectives", "potential", "possible" or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events, conditions or results "may", "could", "would", "should", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of fact and may be forward-looking statements.

Numerous factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements, including without limitation:

the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) may affect the Company's operations and/or the anticipated timeline for the ICSID Arbitration;

the duration, costs, process and outcome of the ICSID Arbitration;

the advancement of Romania's nomination of the "Rosia Montana Mining Landscape" as a UNESCO World Heritage site;

changes in the liquidity and capital resources of Gabriel, and/or the group of companies of which it is directly or indirectly parent;

access to funding to support the Group's continued ICSID Arbitration and/or operating activities in the future;

equity dilution resulting from the conversion or exercise of new or existing securities in part or in whole to Common Shares;

the ability of the Company to maintain a continued listing on the TSX Venture Exchange or any regulated public market for trading securities;

the impact on business strategy and its implementation in Romania of: any allegations of historic acts of corruption, uncertain fiscal investigations; uncertain legal enforcement both for and against the Group and political and social instability;

regulatory, political and economic risks associated with operating in a foreign jurisdiction including changes in laws, governments and legal regimes and interpretation of existing and future fiscal and other legislation;

global economic and financial market conditions;

volatility of currency exchange rates; and

the availability and continued participation in operational or other matters pertaining to the Group of certain key employees and consultants.

This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of the Company's forward-looking statements.

Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and investors should not infer that there has been no change in the Company's affairs since the date of this press release that would warrant any modification of any forward-looking statement made in this document, other documents periodically filed with or furnished to the relevant securities regulators or documents presented on the Company's website. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this notice. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements or the foregoing list of assumptions or factors, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, subject to the Company's disclosure obligations under applicable Canadian securities regulations. Investors are urged to read the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulatory agencies which can be viewed online at www.sedar.com.

ENDS

SOURCE: Gabriel Resources Ltd.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/649419/Gabriel-Resources-Ltd-2021-First-Quarter-Results
FIRSTGROUP PLC

RESULT OF GENERAL MEETING

FirstGroup plc (the 'Company') announces that the resolution to approve the sale of First Student and First Transit to EQT Infrastructure (the 'Sale') was passed by the Company's shareholders on a poll today. The results of the poll are shown in the table below and will also be available on the Company's website.

Commenting on the voting results, FirstGroup Chairman David Martin said:

"We welcome the support of shareholders in approving the sale of First Student and First Transit. Through this transaction, FirstGroup will return value to shareholders, address its long-standing liabilities and make a substantial contribution to its pension schemes. The vital role of public transport in the UK has never been clearer, and FirstGroup will be in prime position to deliver on its goals with a well-capitalised balance sheet and an operating model that will support an attractive dividend for shareholders.

"I and the whole Board take very seriously our responsibility to understand the different views and perspectives of investors, and recognise that a number of shareholders did not vote in favour of today's resolution. As FirstGroup enters a new and exciting phase in its development, I look forward to continuing an open and constructive dialogue with all shareholders as we look to the future."

FOR AGAINST TOTAL WITHHELD Number of votes % of vote Number of votes % of vote Number of votes Number of votes To approve the Sale 634,485,282 61.3 400,183,387 38.7 1,034,668,669 377,312

Votes 'For' and 'Against' are expressed as a percentage of votes received. A 'Vote withheld' is not a vote in law and is not counted in the calculation of the votes 'For' and 'Against' a resolution. The Company's issued share capital as at today's date is 1,222,228,141 ordinary shares and the number of votes per share is one. The Company held 157,229 shares in Treasury, which do not carry any voting rights. The resolution was proposed as an ordinary resolution. A copy of the resolution will be submitted to the Financial Conduct Authority's National Storage Mechanism (the 'NSM') and will be available for inspection on the NSM's website at https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism.

Votes were cast for a total of 1,035,045,981 ordinary shares of 5 pence per share, representing 84.7% of the total number of votes capable of being cast at the General Meeting. In total, 51.9% of the Company's voting issued share capital voted in favour of the resolution.

The Board expects that, subject to the satisfaction and/or waiver (where applicable) of the other conditions precedent to the Sale, completion will occur in the second half of the 2021 calendar year. It is envisaged that, shortly following completion, full details of a proposed return of value to FirstGroup shareholders will be made available and, if necessary, a general meeting of the Company will be convened to seek shareholder approval to effect the proposed return of value.

Contacts at FirstGroup:

Faisal Tabbah, Head of Investor Relations

Stuart Butchers, Group Head of Communications

corporate.comms@firstgroup.com

+44 (0) 20 7725 3354

Contacts at Brunswick PR:

Andrew Porter / Simone Selzer, Tel: +44 (0) 20 7404 5959

Legal Entity Identifier (LEI): 549300DEJZCPWA4HKM93. Classification as per DTR 6 Annex 1R: 3.1.

About FirstGroup

FirstGroup plc (LSE: FGP.L) is a leading provider of transport services in the UK and North America. With 7.8bn in revenue in the year to 31 March 2020 and around 100,000 employees, we transported 2.1bn passengers. Whether for business, education, health, social or recreation - we get our customers where they want to be, when they want to be there. We create solutions that reduce complexity, making travel smoother and life easier. We provide easy and convenient mobility, improving quality of life by connecting people and communities. Visit our website atwww.firstgroupplc.comand follow us @firstgroupplc on Twitter.
Brampton, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Star Navigation Systems Group Ltd. (CSE: SNA) (CSE: SNA.CN) ("Star" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has filed its June 30, 2020 Audited Financial Statements and related Management Discussion and Analysis along with the subsequent quarterly financial statements and related Management Discussion and Analysis for each of the three months ended September 30, 2020 and six months ended December 31, 2020.

Star has also applied to the Ontario Securities Commission to have the Failure to File Cease Trade Order ("FFCTO") lifted now that it has complied with all of its continuous disclosure requirements.

Amir Bhatti, Chief Executive Officer stated, "The FY2020 Audited Financials posted on SEDAR is a key milestone that will greatly assist Star to achieve its goal of having the FFCTO lifted very soon. Star is diligently reorganizing and restructuring the key areas especially sales organization with our global and extended presence of the Company to achieve its Corporate short and long-time objectives. Star is now focusing on sales trajectory towards revenue streams."

Certain statements contained in this Release constitute forward-looking statements. When used in this document, the words "may", "would", "could", "will", "expected", "intend" and similar expressions, as they relate to Star or its management or board are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect Star's current views with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions.

The risks posed by the COVID-19 pandemic are real and substantial but cannot be defined or measured in any meaningful way at this time. Many other factors could cause Star's actual performance or achievements to vary from those described herein. Should one or more of these factors or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected.

Star does not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements, 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 the content of this release.

Please visit www.star-navigation.com or contact

Mr. Amir Bhatti, CEO at 1-416-252-2889 #230 or amir.bhatti@star-navigation.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85524
Huntsville, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Dinatrum/Alumifuel Power Corporation (OTC Pink: AFPW) ("Alumifuel" or the "Company") Mr. Pedro Villagran-Garcia, President & CEO, is pleased to announce that the company has signed an Agreement with Ingenium Technologies "Ingenium".

Ingenium Technologies provides a full range of component and system level design, analysis, development, integration, operations, software and technical writing expertise.



Ingenium Technologies has over 50 professionals with an average experience in excess of 25 years. Their careers cover commercial, military, space, undersea and land vehicles applications. Ingenium Technologies website link: https://bit.ly/3fjslOk

Ingenium was a Consultant in 2010 when Alumifuel gained control of a valuable and innovative Hydrogen Patent.

Alumifuel's CEO embarked in the task to complete an intensive search of all company Intangible Assets regarding its Hydrogen Applied Science and its R&D Investments. We promised results to our investors and shareholders.

As previously mentioned, and to be transparent and to provide in-depth information to our Shareholders, we would like to launch our new Alumifuel website https://www.alumifuelinc.com

Ingenium will assist Alumifuel in the upcoming commercial-scale production of the PBIS-1000 product. https://alumifuelinc.com/pbis-1000-prototype/

We will provide additional information on our plans since Alumifuel and Ingenium worked together on the Design and Production of this product.

For several years, the company invested in Hydrogen Technologies and Applied Sciences, therefore we consider ourselves an Industry Pioneer holding a name that directly associates with "Hydrogen" within the Alternative Fuel Investment Community.

As mentioned, we have filed a 10Q for the Third Quarter of 2016 and we are about to produce a filing for a 10K for 2016.

The company is continuing making an assessment on the companies that Control our Physical and Tangible Assets regarding Clean Energy, specifically related to Hydrogen. We recognize the importance of presenting Financial Statements and is working daily to present them to OTC Markets and to the Securities and Exchange Commission.

DINATRUM, INC./ALUMIFUEL POWER CORPORATION

Alumifuel Power Corporation commercializes unique Intellectual Property for high-demand Military and Commercial Applications, particularly focused on Hydrogen Technology. DINATRUM is a wholly owned subsidiary of Alumifuel Power Corporation and is a developer of Green Real Estate Projects in North America.

Our Social Media presence is displayed as follows:

Twitter: www.Twitter.com/afpw_ir

Facebook: www.facebook.com/dinatrum

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dinatrum13

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dinatrum1

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alumifuel

On behalf of the Board,

Pedro Villagran-Garcia,

President & CEO

Alumifuel Power Corporation

For further information, please contact the company at 1-307-212-4657 or by email at info@dinatrum.com

Forward Looking Statements

Certain information contained in this press release, including any information as to our strategy, plans or future financial or operating performance and other statements that express management's expectations or estimates of future performance, constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. The words "believe," "expect," "will," "anticipate," "contemplate," "target," "plan," "continue," "budget," "may," "intend," "estimate," "project" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, certain delays beyond the company's control with respect to its plans or operations. Our actual results may differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements due to a variety of factors, including, without limitation those set forth as "Risk Factors" in our filings with the SEC which can be found at www.sec.gov. There may be other factors not mentioned above or included in the Company's SEC filings that may cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statement. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85523
Singapore, Singapore--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - According to official sources, Halo Labs recently completed another US$10 million strategic financing from Ace Peak Capital Group. This is the second investment from the group following the first US$10 million completed on 14 May 2021, making the total investment of US$ 20 million in Halo Labs. The investment will be officially completed on May 26, 2021.

Figure 1



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7987/85522_a5c4e27894fb18a9_001full.jpg

The Halo Network mainnet was launched on April 19 to start the global linkage creation coin minting, and the coin minting is still in progress. Halo Network adopts dual-mode mobile innovative transaction management, cross-chain swap, a new HPOS consensus mechanism and native oracles.

Halo HUB consists of three objectives, namely: the improvement of the basic layer enables the halo system to have the basic conditions to access traditional financial tools and to achieve a more efficient and low-cost transaction architecture; the halo system creates an integrated, Decentralized Finance (DeFi) series at the application-level tool flow; traditional financial tools can obtain basic data and trading capabilities through related supporting tools.

Ace Peak Capital Pte Ltd, is a Singapore incorporated company, which is principally a private equity investment company, advising on strategic investments and operational activities. As a Director of Director of Ace Peak Capital Group Pte Ltd, Mr. Levin Lee believes that Halo Network is a high-quality blockchain project which will become an important part of the next stage of DEFI.

Media contact

Media contact

Company Name: Halo Network

Contact: Yuki

Website: https://halo.land

Email: mkt@halotsn.io

Company Name: Ace Peak Capital Group

Address: 6001 Beach Road #16-03 Golden Mile Tower Singapore 199589

Website: https://acepeak.com.sg/

Email: mail@acepeak.com.sg

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85522
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Microdose Psychedelic Insights ("Microdose"), your guide to the business of psychedelics, in partnership with The Conscious Fund, the most active VC fund in the psychedelic space, is pleased to present the next edition of Psychedelic Capital.

The next edition of the psychedelic investment series will be on Monday, May 31, 2021, at 1:30 PM EST. The PsyCap May edition will feature engaging presentations from Psyched Wellness (CSE: PSYC) (OTCQB: PSYCF) (FSE: 5U9) Circadian Wellness Corp., Nextage Therapeutics (TLV: NXTG)as well as panel discussions on the topic of Financial Media and Equality in the Boardroom.

Details and schedule of the May PsyCap are as follows:

1:30 PM: Intro

Featuring Henri Sant-Cassia & Richard Skaife.

1:45 PM: Psyched Wellness (CSE: PSYC) (OTCQB: PSYCF) (FSE: 5U9)

Featuring Jeffrey Stevens, Terry Booth, Rebecca Brown

Psyched Wellness is a Canadian health supplements company dedicated to protect, restore and regain a healthier body and mind through the production and distribution of artisanal, medicinal mushrooms.

2:20 PM: Financial Media

Featuring Bryan McGovern, Frank Lane, Ariadna Peretz, James Hallifax

2:55 PM: Circadian Wellness Corp.

Featuring Alex Wolfe

Circadian Wellness focuses on mushroom farming, extraction, and one-of-a-kind delivery methods with the highest bioavailability. Since inception, research breakthroughs have made our licensed proprietary Quicksome delivery system scalable commercially by delivering the highest purity and quality mushroom extracts and isolates. By extracting from the flowering body rather than mycelium, we are able to deliver the highest quality at maximum potency.

3:30 PM: Equality in Boardroom

Featuring Susan Chapelle

4:05 PM: Nextage Therapeutics (TLV: NXTG)

Featuring Abraham Dreazen

Bringing together the ingenuity of researchers and startups with the know-how of pharmaceutical organizations to create groundbreaking quality responsible products and solutions. Born out of Nextar, Israel's leading CDMO for the development and manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and medical devices.

4:05 PM: Special Guests

Date:

May 31, 2021 at 1:30pm Eastern

Registration site:

https://microdose.buzz/pr

Concept:

Presentations are 30 minutes in length, with 10 minutes always allocated to a one-on-one Q&A session with the audience. Psychedelic Capital features the top companies, latest IPOs, newest opportunities and deepest insights into the emerging psychedelic space. Live networking with all the attendees is available prior and during the event.

- ENDS -

Notes to Editors

To request media accreditation, or to arrange interviews with key personnel please contact:

Kristina Spionjak

kristina@microdose.buzz

About Microdose Psychedelic Insights

Microdose Psychedelic Insights aims to unlock the potential of psychedelics through Industry events, market intelligence, original, evidence-based content, strategy and community. We enable and empower society at large to make better, more mindful decisions about psychedelics and its intersection with healthcare, medicine and personal growth. We work with the industry's most influential stakeholders, some of the world's best-known brands and an unrivalled network of scientists, researchers, analysts, innovators, investors and advisors.

About PsyCap

This online event programming is dedicated to providing investment grade information for the nascent psychedelic sector and presents a curated group of CEOs, financial experts, thought leaders and investment luminaries from around the globe. Presentations are 30 minutes in length, with 10 minutes always allocated to a one-on-one Q&A session with the audience. Psychedelic Capital features the top companies, latest IPOs, newest opportunities and deepest insights into the emerging psychedelic space.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85356
CHICAGO (dpa-AFX) - The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced Thursday that it has reached a settlement agreement with aircraft maker Boeing Co. (BA), who will pay at least $17 million in penalties and undertake multiple corrective actions with its production. The FAA found that the Chicago-based manufacturer installed equipment on 759 Boeing 737 MAX and NG aircraft containing sensors that were not approved for that equipment. It then submitted approximately 178 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft for airworthiness certification when the aircraft potentially had nonconforming slat tracks installed and improperly marked those slat tracks. Boeing will pay the $17 million penalty within 30 days after signing the agreement. If Boeing does not complete certain corrective actions within specific timeframes, the FAA will levy up to $10.1 million in additional penalties. The FAA will continue its oversight of Boeing's engineering and production activities and is actively implementing oversight provisions from the 2020 Aircraft Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act. 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.
- QuEST will leverage Casper Ledger to support end customers in building blockchain-based solutions

ZUG, Switzerland, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- CasperLabs, a leading blockchain development company, and QuEST Global , a global product engineering and lifecycle services company, have partnered to build a series of blockchain-based solutions on the Casper Network. As per the partnership, the companies will initially focus on innovative supply chain models for customers across various industries.

With support from CasperLabs, QuEST will enable its end customers to seamlessly build Web3 applications on the Casper Network, which was purpose-built for organizations that require both enterprise-grade security and performance without compromising on decentralization. Casper's unique, proof-of-stake model introduces a more environmentally responsible model for blockchain consumption that significantly reduces the energy footprint of on-chain transactions compared to other blockchain networks.

Krish Kupathil, Head - Digital Innovation and Hi-Tech, QuEST Global, said, "We are extremely proud to partner with CasperLabs to develop blockchain-based solutions for our customers. At QuEST, we strive to develop outstanding engineering capabilities to build a scalable and sustainable organization that lasts generations. This partnership with CasperLabs will enable us to leverage Casper Network to develop innovative supply chain solutions for our customers across diverse industries. As a leading product engineering services company, we are committed to enabling our customers to Create The Frontier by offering industry-leading, next-generation, technology-based solutions. We look forward to collaborating closely with CasperLabs."

As a trusted thinking partner, QuEST has been working with the world's most recognized companies across industries for the last two decades. With its expertise in new-age technologies - like Blockchain, Deep Learning, AI, IoT, and ML - the company has been developing comprehensive engineering solutions to help OEMs, and tier-one suppliers seamlessly take the next step in their digital transformation journey and make products safer and more reliable.

"We are seeing a growing interest from large-scale organizations in both the public and private sector who recognize the unique models unlocked by Web3 technology," said Mrinal Manohar, CEO at CasperLabs. "As a worldwide organization with thousands of employees and customers, QuEST Global runs a series of comprehensive supply chain networks. We look forward to working with its team to develop new and innovative standards for the supply chain management."

About QuEST Global

For more than 20 years, QuEST Global has been a trusted global product engineering and lifecycle services partner to many of the world's most recognized companies in the Aerospace & Defense, Automotive, Energy, Hi-Tech, Medical Devices, Rail and Semiconductor industries. With a presence in 13 countries, 56 global delivery centers and 11,250+ personnel, QuEST Global is at the forefront of the convergence of the mechanical, electronics, software and digital engineering innovations to engineer solutions for a safer, cleaner and sustainable world. QuEST Global's deep domain knowledge and digital expertise help its clients accelerate product development and innovation cycles, create alternate revenue streams, enhance consumer experience and make manufacturing processes and operations more efficient.

About CasperLabs

CasperLabs, the developer of the Casper Network, provides professional services and support for organizations building on the Casper network. Guided by open source principles, CasperLabs is committed to supporting the next wave of blockchain adoption among businesses and providing developers with a reliable and secure framework to build private, public, and hybrid blockchain applications. Its team possesses deep enterprise technology experience, hailing from organizations including Google, Adobe, AWS, Dropbox, and Microsoft.
- High Prevalence of Age-related Macular Degeneration in Developed Countries Bolsters Pace of Research, Hospitals Rapidly Expanding Avenue

- Broadening Understanding of Eitologies of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) to Aid in Discovery of New, Effective Therapies

ALBANY, N.Y., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Various types of eye disorders pose a high health burden, with the progression leading to loss of vision. Since, the disease grows in burden, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has been a major cause of loss of vision, notably in developed countries. The prevalence in such countries is so high that is found to be the major cause of blindness in people with more than 60 years age. Worldwide, AMD is found to be a significant cause of all types of blindness, spurring the target populations to seek diagnosis and treatment.

According to a finding published in a recent study on the systematic review in Lancet Global Health, AMD will affect as many as 288 million people world over. The prevalence is high in Asia and Europe. A growing number of patients, incentivized by reimbursement, are preferring hospitals for the treatment, making this as a lucrative segment. Coupled with this, imaging technologies have advanced substantially, expanding canvas for drug makers in the market.

Request for Analysis of COVID-19 Impact on Macular Degeneration Treatment Market - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/covid19.php

Drug developers assign high annual cost of therapy (ACOT) for pipeline drugs, pointing to the vast revenue prospects in the macular degeneration treatment market. In this regard, anti-VEGF drugs have shown high potential. The global market is projected to clock CAGR of 6.4% from 2018 to 2026.

Key Findings of Macular Degeneration Treatment Market Study

Unmet Need for Non-invasive and Affordable Treatments Shapes Product Development Approaches: Macular degeneration affects people of all ages, including children and adolescents. There exists high potential revenues in anti-VEGF segment, which has spurred incredible opportunities in therapies for geographic atrophy, an advanced stage of dry AMD. This will pave way to novel drug candidates. However, the macular degeneration treatment market is moving relatively slow in its growth path due to lack of non-invasive treatments. Also, these usually prove to be costly to the patient population.

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High Burden of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Spurs Research: With the rise in elderly people, the AMD is expected to pose huge burden on world's population. Advances in imaging of dry ARMD are boosting the market. Considered as the cause of irreversible blindness, AMD has attracted groundswell of attention among healthcare systems. Thus, there is a high scope for advanced treatments for ARMD especially in developed world. A bulk of investments have come from late stage of dry age-related macular degeneration treatment (dAMD), and wet AMD (wAMD). Thus, drug companies are sure about a good return on investments on the clinical trials they are conducting for novel therapies for these segments.

Purchase the Macular Degeneration Treatment Market Report - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php

Macular Degeneration Treatment Market: Key Driving Factors and Avenues

Rise in incidence of retinal diseases and their impact as vision loss are driving awareness, boosting market growth

Strides made in geriatrics care are bolstering therapies for AMD

Growing awareness about early dry macular degeneration, along with advancements in medical devices used to treat macular degeneration, is a key trend

Growing number of specialty clinics in the developing world boost market

Browse More Press Release - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/press-releases.htm

Competitive Dynamics in Macular Degeneration Treatment Market

Several players have leveraged licensing agreements and other strategic collaborations to consolidate their position and grow across geographies. A growing number of players are keen on unveiling drugs that might fill the gap after the patent expiry of blockbuster drugs.

Some of the key players in the macular degeneration treatment market are Sanofi, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Bayer AG, Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc., Santen Pharmaceuticals Co. Ltd., Pfizer Inc., Novartis AG, and Allergan plc.

Explore Transparency Market Research's award-winning coverage of the global Healthcare Industry:

Targeted Therapeutics Market: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/targeted-therapeutics-market.html

Retinal Disorders Treatment Market: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/retinal-disorders-treatment-market.html

About Us

Transparency Market Research is a next-generation market intelligence provider, offering fact-based solutions to business leaders, consultants, and strategy professionals.

Our reports are single-point solutions for businesses to grow, evolve, and mature. Our real-time data collection methods along with ability to track more than one million high growth niche products are aligned with your aims. The detailed and proprietary statistical models used by our analysts offer insights for making right decision in the shortest span of time. For organizations that require specific but comprehensive information we offer customized solutions through adhoc reports. These requests are delivered with the perfect combination of right sense of fact-oriented problem solving methodologies and leveraging existing data repositories.

TMR believes that unison of solutions for clients-specific problems with right methodology of research is the key to help enterprises reach right decision."

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Parliament passes bill establishing Special Economic Zone to enhance ease of doing business

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The newly reclaimed land of 269 hectares in the heart of the Colombo Business District in Sri Lanka has been identified as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) by the Sri Lankan Parliament, paving the way for the creation of an International Business and Multi Services hub for South Asia called the Port City Colombo. The Colombo Port City Economic Commission Bill sets a stable policy environment and an efficient framework of administrative processes. The bill significantly enhances ease of doing business through a single window facilitation, streamlined arbitration mechanism and globally benchmarked incentives.

Slated as the 'Gateway to South Asia', the project is a Public Private Partnership between the Government of Sri Lanka and project company CHEC Port City Colombo. Port City Colombo is situated alongside the Port of Colombo, which is ranked as the World's 18th best connected Port, and is designed to strike a virtuous balance between commercial, residential and retail spaces.

The Colombo International Financial Centre Phase 1, which is the first vertical development, is scheduled to break ground in June 2021 and will comprise of state-of-the-art business infrastructure with a commitment to International Green Building Standards. All registered entities can enjoy 100% foreign ownership with the opportunity to benefit from relaxed exchange control regulations within the zone.

Yamuna Jayaratne, Director Sales and Marketing for Port City Colombo, said, "Port City will enjoy a cost advantage of nearly 80% compared with regional hubs such as Singapore and Dubai. The enactment of the Colombo Port City Economic Commission Bill will serve to enhance the ease of doing business and bring it to parity along with regional hubs and most importantly address investor pain points that currently dissuades FDI. Coupled with cost advantages, geographic location and the quality of life on offer in Sri Lanka, this would serve as a first step in creating a compelling value proposition for investors. Port City Colombo provides an enviable physical setting required to compete with any world class modern metropolitan city."

CHEC Colombo Port City invites investors from around the world to invest early, gaining a foothold in South Asia's city of the future. More information about the project can be found at https://www.portcitycolombo.lk/

For further information, contact:

Yamuna Jayaratne

Number: +94-112-335-141

Email ID: yamunaj@chec.lk

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1520131/Port_City_Colombo.jpg
AUSTIN, TX / ACCESSWIRE / May 13, 2021 / Best Roofer of Austin Texas, Austin Roofing and Construction, wants to help locals recognize, identify, and manage hail damage to keep their home value high after the storm.

Hail damage is a problem that has plagued homeowners for hundreds of years, and it isn't going anywhere fast. Austin Roofing and Construction knows all about hail damage and the problems that come with it, which is why they are weighing in on what homeowners need to know. As roofing experts, they are prepared to share their expert opinion on identifying and managing hail damage.

Signs of Hail Damage

Storms can appear at a moment's notice, sometimes leaving horrible damage in their wake. In Texas, hail damage is reported several times a year. The roof of a home often takes the brunt of damage anytime that it starts to hail. This kind of damage can range from mild to severe, with some instances requiring significant repairs. Before reporting damage to insurance, it can be helpful to recognize the signs of hail damage.

Visible Markings

In some cases, hail damage will be completely visible. It generally shows itself as visible chips in the shingles or material. Asphalt shingles might display damage as darkened areas where the granules have been visibly removed.

Cracks

Depending on the severity of the hail damage, cracks might occur. If there are multiple cracks on a roof, it is often an indication of physical trauma to the shingles. When this occurs, tears or cracks can be seen. In some instances, the shingles might look like they are peeling.

Missing Shingles

With severe hail, it is possible for shingles to become completely dislodged from repeated physical damage. This might result in shingles that are missing completely, or that are missing large sections. When this occurs, the damage can be a significant risk to the home below.

How to Handle Hail Damage

In the event that hail damage is present, it is incredibly important to take action sooner rather than later. Even mild hail damage can lead to more problems down the line. In extreme cases, hail damage can result in leaks, electrical problems, dangerous mold infestations, and more-all of which will be a costly expense to the owner.

Contact a Professional

Repairing hail damage is a task that requires the input of a professional. While there are DIY methods available online, only a professional will be able to properly assess and treat the damage for the long-term. Partnering with an expert can help homeowners to learn the extent of the damage and take action to repair the roof so that it is secure and visibly pleasing at the same time.

Work with an Insurance Company

In most cases, homeowner's insurance can be used to cover the cost of roof repairs after hail damage. Working directly with an insurance company will allow a homeowner to receive assistance with the cost. Roofing professionals can even handle this for their clients in some instances, making it important to communicate with professionals through the entire process to make it as painless as possible.

About Austin Roofing and Construction:

Austin Roofing and Construction are continuously rated the best roofers in Austin Texas providing their customers with a full scope of services for all their roofing, remodeling, and construction needs. Providing Tesla Solar Roofs, Shingles, Metal, TPO, PVC, and Coatings they offer all types of residential and commercial roofing.

The team at Austin Roofing and Construction is composed of three generations of Texas natives who seek to change the construction industry for the better. By relying on input from the entire team, they are able to bring together traditional and modern methods to provide exceptional service for residents in the area. They have a reputation for always completing their roofing and restoration projects on time and on budget while providing a full-service experience, superior customer interaction, and unparalleled workmanship.

Business name: Austin Roofing and Construction

Contact: Daisy Martinez

Phone: (512) 629-4949

URL: https://www.austinroofingandconstruction.com

Email: daisy@austinroofingandconstruction.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AustinRoofingAndConstruction/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austinroofingandconstruction/

Address: 1301 W Ben White Blvd #200A, Austin, TX 78704

SOURCE: Austin Roofing and Construction

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/649431/Austin-Hail-Damage-Roofing-Company-Austin-Roofing-and-Construction-Examines-how-to-Identify-and-Manage-the-Harmful-Impact-Hail-Damage-has-on-Roofs
Miami, Florida--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Amazonas Florestal, Ltd (OTC Pink: AZFL), a natural resources company dedicated to the processing of Industrial Hemp, High-CBD Hemp Products and the preservation of rainforest properties in Brazil that are eligible for REDD Plus Carbon Credits-a United Nations program-announced a recap of recent company material events. Recently the Company returned to current and compliant status with OTC Markets as a Pink Sheets Information Tier Company, having reorganized after a period of almost 3 years. Management is currently working diligently with hired accountants to complete a PCAOB audit of its records that should be completed in the month of July 2021. The completion of the PCAOB audit is the final requirement for the company to become eligible for funding facilities that would serve to fund company business plans in Latin America. Also last week the DTC (Depository Trust Company) registered and approved Amazonas Florestal Ltd. for DWAC/FAST electronic deposit and transfer of its shares.





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As previously reported, the Company has secured a Business Loan for its subsidiary Green America Laboratories to complete its facility that will become South Florida's first major Industrial Hemp processor and bulk cannabinoid extractor. The GAL facility, located in Northwest Miami-Dade County has been secured, the permit applications and proposed building plans have been submitted and are currently being reviewed by the Miami-Dade County Building and Planning Department. Management has also signed agreements with a General Contractor and expects swift approval of these permits in order to begin the buildout phase.

AZFL's international business negotiations have also had considerable advances thus far this second quarter. The Company has signed intention documents to build a second cannabinoid extraction lab with T-Sep and Delta-8 Conversion capabilities in the country of Colombia.

Management also recently hired consultants in Mexico that are completing applications and business plans that will license AZFL to import and distribute Premium CBD and Delta-8 products in that country. Mexico has a population of almost 130 million and only recently has enacted laws similar to Canada legalizing medical uses for marijuana and will soon follow course to legalize Marijuana recreationally.

Amazonas Florestal's Chairman/CEO Ricardo Cortez was in Mexico last week to sign agreements that will poise the Company to achieve a dual listing with BIVA-the Mexican Stock Exchange. The approval, expected in approximately 180 days, will allow the company to raise capital in Mexico in order to fund its business plans there and in other Latin American countries.

Ricardo Cortez stated: "AZFL management and I would like to thank all of our shareholders and supporters that have made it possible for Amazonas Florestal to return to compliancy. I am personally very pleased to report that we are gaining traction daily with all of our present projects that will take AZFL to the next level. GAL can be expected to become one of the most important hemp processors in the South this year and our vision is to participate in similar projects overseas that have gained the interest and acceptance of our supporters in several Latin American countries -- Mexico and Colombia for starters -- where amidst legalization the products manufactured by GAL become open for distribution to the public in those jurisdictions."

About Amazonas Florestal Ltd.

Amazonas Florestal Ltd. is a natural resources company dedicated to the research and development of innovative projects to process Industrial Hemp in legal cannabinoid concentrations into high CBD, T-Free and Delta-8 products. The Company also promotes the sustainable management of large tracts of land in the rainforests of state of Amazonas, in Brazil, and projects the certification and sale of carbon credits registered from the preservation of rain forest properties. In 2017, the Company shifted gears to focus on the growing, harvesting, research and development of Industrial Hemp and related products in the U.S.A. for both domestic and international markets. In 2021, the Company is building an important Hemp Derived Extraction facility in South Florida dedicated to the production of premium bulk T-Free cannabinoid extractions derived from Hemp and products that use these extractions as an active ingredient for Human and Animal Health and Wellness.

Headquartered in Miami, FL, Amazonas Florestal's goal is to become a leader in field of Cannabinoid Extractions serving labs that use these chemicals as a raw material for human and animal consumption in health and beauty products.

Disclaimer: Forward-Looking Statements

Forward-looking statements in this release regarding Amazonas Florestal Ltd. are made pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, continued acceptance of the company's products, increased levels of competition, new products and technological changes, the company's dependence upon third-party suppliers, intellectual property rights, and other risks detailed from time to time in the company's periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Contact:

Amazonas Florestal Ltd.

Email: info@azflamerica.com

Website: http://azflamerica.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85525
CHICAGO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a new market research report "eGRC Market with COVID-19 by Offering (Software and Services), Software (Usage and Type), Type (Policy Management, Compliance Management, Audit Management, and Risk Management), Business Function, End User, and Region - Global Forecast to 2026", published by MarketsandMarkets, the global eGRC Market size is projected to grow from USD 1.3 billion in 2021 to USD 2.2 billion by 2026, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10.9% during the forecast period.

The major factors contributing to the market growth include the growing need to meet stringent compliance mandates and get a holistic view of policy, risk & compliance data, and increasing data & security breaches. These factors lead to the growing need for precise eGRC solutions, which support organizations to effectively manage Governance Compliance Risk (GRC) programs for driving the growth of the eGRC industry.

Browse in-depth TOC on "eGRC Market"

457 - Tables

50 - Figures

360 - Pages

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=1310

Among deployment mode, cloud segment to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period

The use of eGRC solutions is increasing acroCloud-based eGRC solutions are becoming popular as they offer a cost-effective and efficient way to manage governance, risk, and compliance. As cloud-based solutions offer a wide range of benefits, the adoption of the same is increasing among various industries. The adoption of cloud-based eGRC solutions is increasing among SMEs as these solutions are budget-friendly and easy to deploy. Cloud-Based eGRC vendors offer GRC solutions to help organizations automate compliance, as well as control monitoring processes. Furthermore, it enhances the visibility into risk exposure. Hence, vendors are projected to deploy eGRC solutions to leverage the benefits offered by the cloud.

Healthcare vertical to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period

The use of eGRC solutions is increasing across all verticals to manage the challenges associated with risk and compliance. Verticals that are leveraging eGRC solutions include Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI), telecommunication, energy & utility, government, healthcare, manufacturing, mining & natural resources, retail & consumer goods, Information Technology (IT), transportation & logistics and others. Among these, the healthcare vertical is expected to grow at the highest growth rate, owing to the growing need to manage various standards and ensure compliance requirements for regulations. The healthcare sector is constantly focusing on enhancing the services delivered to patients. While delivering the best services to patients and staff, clinics and hospitals must assess and control various risks with regards to patient safety, federal regulations, and medical errors. In addition, risk and compliance management solutions enable healthcare service provides to consolidate the information in the form of silos to manage risk and compliance in the organization.

Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=1310

North America to hold the largest market size during the forecast period

North America is contributing maximum in terms of revenue generation in the global eGRC Market. The region is witnessing major developments in the eGRC space. Multiple vendors across the region are involved in developing innovative products and solutions. They are focusing on the integration of advanced technologies, such as Analytics, Natural Language Processing, and Machine Learning (ML). Among all the countries of North America, the US is expected to lead in terms of the adoption of eGRC solutions. The growing business complexities and changing regulatory requirements are expected to drive market growth in the region.

Major vendors in the global eGRC Market include IBM (US), Microsoft (US), Oracle (US), SAP (Germany), SAS Institute (US), ServiceNow (US), Thomson Reuters (Canada), Wolters Kluwer (Netherlands), Dell EMC (US), FIS (US), Software AG (Germany), RSA Security (US), MEGA International (France), Ideagen (UK), Mphasis (India), MetricStream (US), Protiviti (US), SAI Global (US), ProcessGene (Israel), LogicManager (US), Quantivate (US), Riskonnect (US), NAVEX Global (US), Alyne(Germany), and Lexcomply (India), StandardFusion (Canada).

Browse Related Reports:

RegTech Market by Component (Solutions and Services), Application (Risk and Compliance Management, Identity Management, Regulatory Reporting, AML and Fraud Management), Vertical, Deployment Type, Organization Size, and Region - Global Forecast to 2025

https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/regtech-market-63447434.html

Cybersecurity Market by Solution (IAM, Encryption, UTM, Antivirus/Antimalware, Firewall, IDS/IPS, Disaster Recovery, and DDOS Mitigation), Service, Security Type, Deployment Mode, Organization Size, Industry Vertical, and Region - Global Forecast to 2023

https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/cyber-security-market-505.html

Browse Adjacent Markets: Software and Services Market Research Reports & Consulting

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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.

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Montreal, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - GlobalVision today announced the official release of Verify, a redesigned web application built for fast and accurate quality inspections. Verify helps companies in regulated industries optimize inspections and accelerate the asset development process by catching deviations at every revision point.

Developed for Workflow Integration

Following the successful launch of the Beta version, Verify has been further developed to deliver powerful text, image, and spelling inspections that integrate within the file creation workflow. Our APIs allow customers to seamlessly connect Verify with their artwork management systems and other platforms, allowing them to run quality inspections directly within the asset development process. This allows for a secure transition between products to further streamline user workflows.

With Verify, users can ensure that text and graphics are accurately transcribed from reference materials to accelerate the MLR review process. Inspection results and comments can also be shared across workflows to ensure the correct changes are made at each revision stage.

"Verify is a complete rethinking of the user experience. We optimized for speed, simplicity, and workflow integration. Under the hood is a scalable web infrastructure based on AWS that delivers powerful inspection technology to our customers," says Michael Malz, Director of Product at GlobalVision.

A Streamlined User Experience

The Verify application allows users to perform intuitive quality inspections while benefiting from a faster onboarding and training process. This ensures that users can easily begin running inspections after implementing Verify. With infrastructure developed for continuous innovation, users will receive frequent updates that further add value and ensure their asset development process remains seamless and up-to-date.

"We are thrilled to officially release our new web-based application built from the ground up. Verify represents not only the latest evolution of GlobalVision's inspection technology but also unlocks the infinite possibilities of integrating directly with our customers' workflows, bringing inspections closer to where teams approve their work," says Arpad Lehoczki, Business Development Manager for Verify at GlobalVision.

To learn more about the official release of Verify from GlobalVision, visit globalvision.co/verify or contact us for more information.

Additional Information

For more on Verify, visit globalvision.co/verify

About GlobalVision

GlobalVision is the leader in document inspection software for regulated industries. Committed to helping businesses get assets developed faster without compromising quality, GlobalVision serves more than 800 customers, ranging from the world's largest pharmaceutical and consumer goods companies to quality-focused packaging companies and agencies. For more information, visit globalvision.co.

GlobalVision contact:

Christine Vannelli, PR contact - GlobalVision

cvannelli@globalvision.co

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85349
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 27, 2021 / Legend Power Systems Inc. (TSX.V:LPS) (OTCQB:LPSIF) ("Legend Power" or the "Company"), a global leader in commercial electrical system solutions, today announced it will release its Q2 2021 financial results for the six months ended March 31, 2021, on Monday, May 31, 2021. The Company has also scheduled a conference call to provide a business update and discuss its Q2 2021 financial results for Monday, May 31, 2021 at 5:00 PM ET (2:00 PM PT). The call will be hosted by Randy Buchamer, President & Chief Executive Officer and Steve Vanry, Chief Financial Officer.

CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS:

DATE: Monday, May 31, 2021 TIME: 5:00 PM ET (2:00 PM PT) DIAL-IN NUMBER: North America Toll Free Dial-in Number (877) 201-0168 International Dial-in Number - (647) 788-4901 ONLINE LISTENING https://onlinexperiences.com/Launch/QReg/ShowUUID=0306FBBC-A032-4AA4-849A-81204C49373A CONFERENCE ID: 4363382 REPLAY: Available at: www.legendpower.com

About Legend Power Systems Inc.

Legend Power Systems Inc. (www.legendpower.com) provides an intelligent energy management platform that analyzes and improves building energy challenges, significantly impacting asset management and corporate performance. Legend's proven solutions support proactive executive decision-making in a complex and volatile business and energy environment.

For further information, please contact:

Steve Vanry, CFO

+ 1 604 671 9522

svanry@legendpower.com

Sean Peasgood, Investor Relations

+ 1 647 503 1054

sean@sophiccapital.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain statements which constitute "forward-looking information", including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs and current expectations of the Company, its directors, or its officers with respect to the future business activities and operating performance of the Company. The words "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect" and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company, or its management, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future business activities or performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that the Company's future business activities may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Such risks, uncertainties and factors are described in the periodic filings with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities, including the Company's quarterly and annual Management's Discussion & Analysis, which may be viewed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results to not be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements other than as may be required by applicable law.

SOURCE: Legend Power Systems Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/649443/Legend-Power-Schedules-Q2-2021-Financial-Results-Release-and-Conference-Call
Regulatory News:

Verimatrix (Euronext Paris: VMX), reminded that the shareholders of Verimatrix are invited to a combined General Meeting on June 10, 2021 at 2 pm CET.

In accordance with the provisions of ordinance n 2020-321 of March 25, 2020, extended and modified by ordinance n 2020-1497 of December 2, 2020, and decree n 2020-418 of April 10, 2020 extended and modified by decree n 2020-1614 of December 18, 2020 and decree n 2021-255 of March 9, 2021, the general meeting of the Company of June 10, 2021, by decision of the board of directors, will be held in camera, in the presence of the members of the general meeting office only, without the shareholders and other persons entitled to attend being physically present.

The notice of meeting was published in the BALO on May 5, 2021, as well as on the company's website (https://investors.verimatrix.com).

The general meeting will be broadcast live. Shareholders wishing to log in should make a request by email to contactassemblee@verimatrix.com (accompanied by proof of ownership of shares). Connection details will be sent by return email after registration has been validated. The audio conference recording will be available on the company's website after the general meeting has been held.

Insofar as the general meeting is held without the physical presence of the shareholders, it is reminded that the shareholders will not be able to propose new resolutions during the general meeting. No vote will be possible during the meeting, so shareholders are therefore invited to vote prior to the combined general meeting by making use of the means of voting by mail or by proxy, made available to them, by filling out a ballot paper by mail or by giving a proxy voting mandate (forms being available on the company website).

Shareholders will be able to ask questions during the general meeting which will be answered during the meeting. Shareholders may also address their questions in advance to the following address contactassemblee@verimatrix.com.

All documents and information concerning this meeting are made available to shareholders under the conditions and deadlines provided for by the regulations in force and in particular, the information referred to in article R.225-73-1 of the French Commercial Code. published on the Verimatrix website (https://investors.verimatrix.com) under the heading "Shareholders", then "Annual General meeting".

About Verimatrix

Verimatrix (Euronext Paris: VMX) helps power the modern connected world with security made for people. We protect digital content, applications, and devices with intuitive, people-centered and frictionless security. Leading brands turn to Verimatrix to secure everything from premium movies and live streaming sports, to sensitive financial and healthcare data, to mission-critical mobile applications. We enable the trusted connections our customers depend on to deliver compelling content and experiences to millions of consumers around the world. Verimatrix helps partners get to market faster, scale easily, protect valuable revenue streams, and win new business. To learn more, visit: https://www.verimatrix.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005477/en/

Contacts:

Investor Relations

Richard Vacher Detourniere

General Manager Chief Financial Officer

+33 (0)4 42 905 905

finance@verimatrix.com

Verimatrix Media Contact:

Matthew Zintel

+1 281 444 1590

matthew.zintel@zintelpr.com
Berwyn, Pennsylvania--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Annovis Bio, Inc. (NYSE American: ANVS) ("Annovis" or the "Company"), a clinical-stage drug platform company addressing Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD) and other neurodegenerative diseases, today announced the closing of its underwritten public offering of 1,000,000 shares of its common stock at a public offering price of $50.00 per share, for gross proceeds of $50,000,000, before deducting underwriting discounts, commissions and offering expenses. All of the shares of common stock are being offered by the Company.

ThinkEquity, a division of Fordham Financial Management, Inc., acted as sole book-running manager for the offering and Maxim Group LLC acted as co-manager for the offering.

The Company will use the net proceeds from the offering primarily for general corporate purposes, including working capital, research and development, capital expenditures and the completion of its planned Phase 3 clinical trial for ANVS401 in AD in persons with Down Syndrome.

The securities were offered and sold pursuant to a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-252625), including a base prospectus, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") on February 1, 2021 and declared effective on February 11, 2021. The offering was made only by means of a written prospectus. A final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus describing the terms of the offering has been filed with the SEC on its website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the final prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus relating to the offering may also be obtained, from the offices of ThinkEquity, a division of Fordham Financial Management, Inc., 17 State Street, 22nd Floor, New York, New York 10004, by telephone at (877) 436-3673 or by email at prospectus@think-equity.com.

This press release shall 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 state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

About Annovis Bio Inc.

Headquartered in Berwyn, Pennsylvania, Annovis Bio, Inc. (Annovis) is a clinical-stage, drug platform company addressing neurodegeneration, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's in Down Syndrome (AD-DS). We believe that we are the only company developing a drug for AD, PD and AD-DS that inhibits more than one neurotoxic protein and, thereby, improves the information highway of the nerve cell, known as axonal transport. When this information flow is impaired, the nerve cell gets sick and dies. We expect our treatment to improve memory loss and dementia associated with AD and AD-DS, as well as body and brain function in PD. We have two ongoing Phase 2a studies: one in AD patients and one in both AD and PD patients. For more information on Annovis, please visit the company's website: www.annovisbio.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements in this press release contain "forward-looking statements" that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as "anticipate," "expect," "believe," "will," "may," "should," "estimate," "project," "outlook," "forecast" or other similar words, and include, without limitation, statements regarding the timing, effectiveness, and anticipated results of ANVS401 clinical trials. Forward-looking statements are based on Annovis Bio, Inc.'s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate, including that clinical trials may be delayed; that the data reported herein is interim data, conclusions as to which may be superseded by subsequent data we expect to receive in connection with Phase 2a trials and/or subsequent clinical trials; and that any anticipated meeting with or presentation to the FDA may be delayed. These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully in the section titled "Risk Factors" in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and Annovis Bio, Inc. undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.

Investor Relations:

Dave Gentry, CEO

RedChip Companies Inc.

407-491-4498

Dave@redchip.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85353
Regulatory News:

Clinical Enterprise, Inc., a Eurofins Scientific (Paris:ERF) company, today announced it has been awarded a U.S. Government agreement to expand national COVID-19 testing. The agreement with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, in coordination with the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD), will expand testing opportunities in K-8 schools, underserved populations and congregate settings such as homeless shelters. Eurofins has been awarded the agreement to test up to 24.6 million people in the Northeast and South regions.

The goals of the government-funded programme are to help identify and minimise asymptomatic transmission, curtail broader community transmission, prevent outbreaks in institutional and community settings, and protect vulnerable individuals and populations.

Eurofins U.S. Clinical Diagnostics companies, which operate a network of 20 CLIA-certified labs, have been at the forefront of COVID-19 testing. Eurofins launched its first RT-PCR assay for SARS-CoV-2 in the U.S. on March 13, 2020. The FDA-emergency use authorized assay, developed by Eurofins Viracor, Inc., is ranked one of the most sensitive on the market, according to the FDA's SARS-CoV-2 Reference Panel.1

Eurofins' U.S. COVID-19 programme is centered on pooled surveillance PCR tests, where any positive pools reflex immediately to individual diagnostic testing. This method helps identify positive individuals in a timely manner without the need to re-test. Eurofins' high ratio pooling (24:1) combines low cost testing with a highly sensitive test, which is ideal for early detection in community and school settings.

Eurofins will partner with Affinity Empowering, Inc., a leading provider of the most sophisticated and secure occupational, behavioral, and direct-to-consumer health services, to scale school and community outreach across both regions. Affinity has developed a fully integrated, HIPAA-compliant technology platform, Assure, which will be used as the end-to-end platform to provide up-to-the-minute scheduling, test results, and reports.

Eurofins was one of 187 vendors vying for the national COVID-19 testing agreement, which was awarded on May 25th. Outreach to schools and community- based organizations will begin immediately.

Notes to Editors:

About Eurofins the global leader in bio-analysis

Eurofins is Testing for Life. Eurofins is the global leader in food, environment, pharmaceutical and cosmetic product testing and in agroscience Contract Research Organisation services. Eurofins is one of the market leaders in certain testing and laboratory services for genomics, discovery pharmacology, forensics, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies, as well as having an emerging global presence in Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisations. The Group also has a rapidly developing presence in highly specialised and molecular clinical diagnostic testing and in-vitro diagnostic products.

With over 50,000 staff across a decentralised and entrepreneurial network of more than 800 laboratories in over 50 countries, Eurofins offers a portfolio of over 200,000 analytical methods to evaluate the safety, identity, composition, authenticity, origin, traceability and purity of a wide range of products, as well as providing innovative clinical diagnostic testing services and in-vitro diagnostic products.

The Group's objective is to provide its customers with high-quality services, innovative solutions and accurate results on time. Eurofins is ideally positioned to support its clients' increasingly stringent quality and safety standards and the increasing demands of regulatory authorities as well as the requirements of healthcare practitioners around the world.

In 2020, Eurofins reacted quickly to meet the global challenge of COVID-19, by creating the capacity to help over 20 million patients monthly who may have been impacted by the pandemic with our testing products and our services and directly supporting healthcare professionals working on the front line to fight the virus. The Group has established widespread PCR testing capabilities and has carried out over 24 million tests in its own laboratories, is supporting the development of a number of vaccines and has established its SAFER@WORK testing, monitoring and consulting programmes to help ensure safer environments during COVID-19.

Eurofins has grown very strongly since its inception and its strategy is to continue expanding its technology portfolio and its geographic reach. Through R&D and acquisitions, the Group draws on the latest developments in the field of biotechnology and analytical chemistry to offer its clients unique analytical solutions.

Shares in Eurofins Scientific are listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN FR0014000MR3, Reuters EUFI.PA, Bloomberg ERF FP).

Until it has been lawfully made public widely by Eurofins through approved distribution channels, this document contains inside information for the purpose of Regulation (EU) 596/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 April 2014 on market abuse, as amended.

Important disclaimer:

This press release contains forward-looking statements and estimates that involve risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements and estimates contained herein represent the judgment of Eurofins Scientific's management as of the date of this release. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees for future performance, and the forward-looking events discussed in this release may not occur. Eurofins Scientific disclaims any intent or obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements and estimates. All statements and estimates are made based on the information available to the Company's management as of the date of publication, but no guarantees can be made as to their completeness or validity.

1:https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/sars-cov-2-reference-panel-comparative-dataresults

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005744/en/

Contacts:

For more information, please visit www.eurofins.com or contact:

Investor Relations

Eurofins Scientific SE

Phone: +32 2 766 1620

E-mail: ir@eurofins.com
EP Global Opportunities Trust plc (the "Company")

The Company announces that on 27 May 2021 it purchased 50,000 of its own Ordinary 1p shares at a price of 2.85 per share. The shares have been placed into Treasury.

Following this transaction, the Company has 27,566,917 Ordinary shares held in Treasury and 36,942,725 Ordinary shares in circulation. Accordingly, the total voting rights in the Company are 36,942,725. The total number of shares in issue remains as 64,509,642.

The above total voting rights figure may be used by shareholders as the denominator for the calculations by which they will determine whether they are required to notify their interest in EP Global Opportunities Trust plc under the FCA's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.

27 May 2021

LEI: 2138005T5CT5ITZ7ZX58

Enquiries:

Kenneth J Greig

Edinburgh Partners AIFM Limited

Tel: 0131 270 3800

The Company's registered office address is:

27-31 Melville Street

Edinburgh

EH3 7JF
Funding set to further define and upgrade Resources at the Mont Sorcier Project

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 27, 2021 / Vanadium One Iron Corp. ("Vanadium One" or the "Company") (TSXV:VONE), is pleased to announce that it has completed its previously-announced non-brokered private placement of an aggregate of 4,705,880 flow-through units ("FT Units") at a price of $0.425 per FT Unit for gross proceeds of approximately $2,000,000 (the "Offering"). Each FT Unit is comprised of one flow-through share (the "FT Share") and one-half common share purchase warrant (the "Warrant"). Each whole Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one additional common share at an exercise price of $0.425 for a period of 2 years from the date hereof.

The securities issued pursuant to the Offering will be subject to a four (4) month plus one (1) day statutory hold period from the date of issuance, expiring on September 28, 2021, in accordance with applicable securities laws. This Offering is subject to final acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange.

The FT Shares will qualify as "flow-through shares" within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada) and, in respect of eligible Quebec resident subscribers, the Taxation Act (Quebec). The gross proceeds received by the Company from the sale of the FT Units will be used to incur eligible "Canadian exploration expenses" that qualify as "flow-through mining expenditures" (as both terms are defined under the Income Tax Act (Canada)) related to the Company's projects located in Quebec. The Company intends to use the gross proceeds of the Offering to fund expenditures to continue exploration and further definition of the Company's Mont Sorcier Iron and Vanadium Property, as the Company looks to advance the property towards a formal feasibility study. Certain subscribers purchasing FT Units may have entered into arrangements with an arm's length third party to purchase FT Units. The Company is not party to such arrangements and makes no representations in connection therewith.

A cash commission of $120,000 equating to approximately 6.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds of the Offering and 282,352 non-transferrable finder warrants (the "Finder Warrants") equating to approximately 6.0% percent of the FT Units sold pursuant to the Offering are payable to Laurentian Bank Securities, who acted as finder in connection with the Offering. Each Finder Warrant entitles the holder thereof to acquire one common share at an exercise price of $0.425 for a period of 2 years from the date of issuance.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to or for the account or benefit of a U.S. person (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

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 100% held Mont Sorcier, Vanadium-rich, Magnetite Iron Ore Project, in Chibougamau, Quebec. The Mont Sorcier Iron ore property hosts a large high quality magnetite iron resource with significant and extractable vanadium in a top tier mining jurisdiction. The project is located just 18 km outside of Chibougamau close to existing road, rail, low-cost hydro power and with access to deep water ports for export to global markets. Based upon recent and historical metallurgical test work Mont Sorcier is expected to produce a premium iron ore product (65-67% Fe) containing approximately 0.6% vanadium.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF VANADIUM ONE IRON CORP.

Cliff Hale-Sanders, President & CEO

Tel: 416-819-8558

csanders@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:https://www.accesswire.com/649463/Vanadium-One-Announces-Closing-of-20-Million-Non-Brokered-Private-Placement-Financing
Independent research firm report states that Riversand "provides best-in-class data onboarding and creation"

CHICAGO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Riversand, a Syndigo Company and leading cloud-native SaaS Master Data Management (MDM) and Product Information Management (PIM) solution provider, today announced that it has been named a Leader in "The Forrester WaveTM: Product Information Management, Q2 2021*" report.

"We are very honored that Forrester named Riversand a Leader in PIM platforms," said Upen Varanasi, CEO and co-founder of Riversand. "On top of the recognition, we have kept a singular focus on providing customers with a great onboarding, deployment, and support experience. Our customers rate us highly in multiple fronts. We believe this feedback is further validated in this Forrester report."

Riversand was recently acquired by Syndigo, a leading SaaS product information and syndication company. Together they comprise an end-to-end product content solution featuring MDM, PIM, DAM, Syndication and Analytics capabilities. The two companies are an "ideal fit," according to Varanasi. More information can be found here: https://www.syndigo.com/about-us/news/syndigo-acquires-riversand-expanding-master-data-management/

Riversand was among the select companies that Forrester invited to participate in its report, "The Forrester WaveTM: Product Information Management, Q2 2021." In this evaluation, Riversand was cited as a Leader in Product Information Management.

Riversand received the highest score amongst all 10 vendors in the "Current Offering" category.

The report stated that Riversand references credited Riversand as "a 'very elegant' solution for complex data aggregation," and that reference "customers selected Riversand as a cost-effective system to manage modern PIM and for its industry-specific expertise"

Riversand received the highest possible scores in seven specific criteria including "Product data management," "Product data creation and onboarding," "Deployment and Support," "Partner ecosystem," and "Market approach."

"We work with phenomenal clients and take great pride in delivering better data experiences to their customers and partners," said Upen Varanasi, CEO and co-founder of Riversand. "Data is the fuel that drives our customers' growth, revenue, and cost engines. We optimize that fuel and help our customers realize business value from their data."

Riversand helps some of the world's biggest brands manage their multiple domains of data, such as customer, product, and supply chain data, across all points - giving customers trustable data to the right person, at the right time, and in the right context. Riversand's customers include global leaders in retail, food and consumer-packaged goods (CPG), manufacturing, transportation and distribution, healthcare, and energy.

Download the full Forrester Wave report here (available to Forrester subscribers and for purchase) *: https://www.riversand.com/resources/forrester-wave-product-information-management-solution

*Forrester, "The Forrester WaveTM: Product Information Management, Q2 2021," Amanda LeClair, and Contributors Allen Bonde, Alessia Stewart, and Madison Bakalar, May 2021

About Riversand

Riversand provides a Master Data Experience Platform (MDxP), enabling customers to leverage their data through intelligent insights, automation, and multi-domain SaaS solutions. Riversand's MDxP platform is the engine that powers customers' digital transformation journeys through improved business agility, faster adoption and improved collaboration across the enterprise. Driving data to experiences and insights, Riversand has a vision of helping companies know their customers better, move products faster, automate processes, mitigate risk and run their businesses smarter. Visit Riversand for more information and follow us @RiversandMDM on Twitter and Riversand on LinkedIn.

About Syndigo

Syndigo enables commerce by supporting the efficient transfer of product information through its network of brands and their customers. The company provides descriptive product and nutritional information, images and other digital media, powered by deep analytics to empower engaging brand experiences online and in store.

Through Syndigo's integrated platform, Content Experience Hub, clients can publish, manage, syndicate and audit product content across the largest trading network of brands and recipients in the world.

Syndigo serves more than 12,000 manufacturers and 1,750 retailers and distributors globally in many important consumer industries including grocery, foodservice, hardlines, home improvement/DIY, pet, health and beauty, automotive, apparel, and healthcare products. For more information, please visit www.syndigo.com.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/811698/Syndigo_Logo.jpg


BRUSSELS/FRANKFURT/PARIS (dpa-AFX) - European stock closed slightly higher on Thursday amid rising optimism about global economic recovery after data showed another drop in U.S. jobless claims.



Investors also digested a slew of economic data and earnings announcements from the euro area.



The pan European Stoxx 600 advanced 0.27%. France's CAC 40 gained 0.69%, while Germany's DAX and the U.K.'s FTSE 100 slid 0.28% and 0.1%, respectively. Switzerland's SMI edged down 0.07%.



Among other markets in Europe, Austria, Czech Republic, Finland, Greece, Ireland, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Russia and Sweden ended higher.



Belgium, Denmark, Iceland, Netherlands, Spain and Turkey closed weak.



In the UK market, Antofagasta gained nearly 5%, Glencore climbed 4.6% and Ashtead Group gained 4.4%. Fresnillo, Rolls-Royce Holdings, Melrose Industries, Aviva, M&G and Lloyds Banking Group gained 3 to 4%.



Johnson Matthey, Imperial Brands, Taylor Wimpey, Intertek Group, Severn Trent, DCC, Croda International Group, Unilever, Barratt Developments, Reckitt Benckiser, Berkeley Holdings, Royal Dutch Shell and Kingfisher lost 2 to 4%.



In France, Airbus shares soared more than 9% after signaling confidence in the recovery of the aviation industry from the pandemic.



Technip, ArcelorMittal, Safran, Faurecia, BNP Paribas, Societe Generale, Valeo and Renault gained 2.5 to 5%.



Capgemini, Sanofi, Engie, Dassault Systemes, Teleperformance and Total shed 1 to 2%.



In the German market, Deutsche Post rallied more than 4%, Vonovia gained 3.2% and MTU Aero Engines climbed nearly 2.5%. Covestro, Volkswagen, BMW, Lufthansa, Continental, Deutsche Bank and HeidelbergCement also ended notably higher.



Bayer shed more about 5% after a federal judge rejected the company's $2 billion Roundup settlement, saying in an order it would not adequately address the concerns of families who may later be diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.



Shares of German sportswear firm Puma drifted lower after France's Kering said it is selling a 5.9% in the company.



In economic releases, German consumer confidence is set to improve in June, market research group GfK said earlier today.



The forward-looking consumer confidence index rose to -7.0 in June from revised -8.6 in May. Nonetheless, the reading was weaker than the economists' forecast of -5.2.



A report from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said car production in the U.K. increased sharply in April compared to the pandemic hit month in 2020 but remained below its 2019 level.



Factories manufactured 68,306 cars in April compared to just 197 a year ago when Covid restrictions effectively halted manufacturing. The performance was 3.8% below the April 2019 output. So far this year UK factories have turned out 374,864 cars, which were up by 17.3%.



Switzerland's exports increased at a softer pace in April, data from the Federal Customs Administration showed. Exports rose by a real 0.1% month-on-month in April, after a 5.1% growth in March.



Imports rose 2.2% monthly in April, after a 3.7% increase in the previous month. The trade surplus decreased to CHF 3.291 billion in April from CHF 3.873 billion in March.



According to the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry, watch exports rose 2% year-on-year in April.



In news from the U.S., data released by the Labor Department showed weekly jobless claims once again fell to a new pandemic-era low. The report said initial jobless claims slid to 406,000 in the week ended May 22nd, a decrease of 38,000 from the previous week's unrevised level of 444,000. Economists had expected jobless claims to dip to 425,000.



Jobless claims decreased for the fourth consecutive week, once again falling to their lowest level since hitting 256,000 in the week ended March 14, 2020.



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The Panel for a Global Public Health Convention (PGPHC) expressed disappointment today over indications that the World Health Assembly is planning to postpone until November 2021 the decision to start preparing a new pandemic treaty. At a time when the world needs urgent action, a delay of any length undermines the momentum toward bringing countries together to ratify a global public health treaty or convention.

The draft resolution, which is currently under consideration at the WHA, calls for the Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO) to convene a special session of the WHA in autumn. In the meantime, a working group would assess the benefits of developing a WHO convention, or another instrument on pandemic preparedness and response.

"The plan was for a resolution at the WHA to enable an intergovernmental working group, led by a Head of State, to start working on this treaty. Instead, it appears we will now have a decision to look at this again later this year. This is unacceptable," said Dame Barbara Stocking, Chair of the PGPHC, and President of Murray Edwards College, University of Cambridge. "It seems that governments have not yet understood the ongoing risk we face. We ask our leaders to recognise that the 'wait and see' approach they took in February 2020 which allowed the current pandemic to run rife, should not be taken again. We should not be 'waiting to see' whether we will have a global treaty which will in any case take months to be agreed."

Despite the delay, Member States and other relevant stakeholders should take every opportunity to move the process forward before the special session of the WHA in November. They should come together and back the working group which will begin developing the outlines of an agreement that will be debated in autumn. Additionally, the UN General Assembly in September offers an important opportunity for Member States to debate key elements of the treaty and demonstrate strong backing for it by heads of state, along with opportunities at the upcoming G7 and G20 summits.

Covid-19 has affected every single person across the globe, whether in health, in the trials and emotional loss of lockdown, to pushing many millions of people into poverty and financial uncertainty. This is a moment when global leaders should come together in solidarity, not just to get us safely out of this pandemic, but to be much more prepared for the next one.

The Panel for a Global Public Health Convention (GPHC) is an independent coalition of global leaders working to strengthen the world's ability to prevent, prepare, and respond to infectious disease outbreaks before they become widespread pandemics. The Panel was founded in 2020 in response to the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic with the aim of bridging critical gaps in the global public health architecture and policy frameworks by promulgating a new global public health treaty or convention in an effort to ensure another pandemic of such magnitude does not happen again. To learn more, visit www.gphcpanel.org, and follow us on Twitter @GPHC_Panel.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005808/en/

Contacts:

US MEDIA CONTACT:

Denys Nazarov

GPHCCommunications Advisor

+1 202 503 4743

denys.nazarov@ahf.org
Regulatory News:

Total Gabon's (Paris:EC) ordinary Annual Shareholders' Meeting was held today in Libreville, chaired by Mr. Nicolas TERRAZ.

Shareholders approved all resolutions recommended by the Board of Directors, including:

Approval of the 2020 financial statements, including a net loss of $87 million under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and a net loss of $43 million under OHADA standards.

Approval of the payment of a net dividend of $4.50 per share related to the financial year 2020 for a total amount of $20.25 million.

Renewal of the directors mandates of MM. Nicolas TERRAZ, Etienne MBOUMBA, Yann DUCHESNE, Dimitri LOBADOWSKY and Aristide OBIANG MEBALE for a two-year term expiring at the end of the Annual Shareholders' Meeting called to approve the 2022 financial statements.

Determination of the global compensation ceiling of the statutory auditors for preparing their reports on the 2020 financial statements.

A detailed breakdown of the vote tallies will be posted on the Company's website www.total.ga in the coming days.

The Board of Directors in its meeting today approved the modalities of the dividend payment. The $4.50 per share dividend will be paid as from June 10, 2021 in an equivalent amount of 3.69 per share, based on the European Central Bank's rate of $1.2198 per on May 27, 2021.

Total Gabon is owned 58.28% by the Total group, 25% by the Gabonese Republic and 16.72% by private sector investors.

Societe anonyme incorporated in Gabon with a Board of Directors and share capital of $76,500,000

Headquarters: Boulevard Hourcq, Port-Gentil, BP 525, Gabonese Republic

www.total.ga

Registered in Port-Gentil: 2000 B 00011

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005812/en/

Contacts:

Media Contact: actionnariat-totalgabon@total.com
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Hemptown Organics Corp. (the "Company" or "Hemptown"), a privately held British Columbia company is providing an update further to its news releases of September 9, 2020, October 2, 2020, October 13, 2020 and March 23, 2021 on the proposed acquisition of Hemptown by Spectre Capital Corp. (TSXV: SOO.P) ("Spectre"), a capital pool company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") (the "Transaction"). The Transaction, once complete, is expected to result in the reverse takeover of Spectre (thereafter, referred to as the "Resulting Issuer") and will constitute Spectre's Qualifying Transaction under Policy 2.4 - Capital Pool Companies of the Exchange (the "CPC Policy").

Concurrent Financing

In connection with the Transaction, Hemptown and Spectre have entered into an engagement letter dated May 27, 2021 (the "Engagement Letter") with Canaccord Genuity Corp. (the "Agent") to complete an equity financing (the "Concurrent Financing") by way of a private placement of up to 8,823,530 subscription receipts (each, a "Subscription Receipt") at $0.85 per Subscription Receipt for aggregate gross proceeds of up to $7,500,000, with such proceeds to be deposited in escrow (the "Escrowed Funds") pursuant to the terms of an escrow agreement to be entered into among the Company, Spectre and an escrow agent (the "Escrow Agent") acceptable to the Agent.

Pursuant to the Engagement Letter, the Company also agreed to grant the Agent an option (the "Over-Allotment Option") to place up to an additional 1,323,530 Subscription Receipts, or 15% of the maximum number of Subscription Receipts issuable under the Concurrent Financing, for additional gross proceeds of up to $1.125 million.

Immediately prior to the closing of the Transaction (the "Closing") and upon satisfaction of all conditions precedent to the Transaction (the "Escrow Release Condition"), each Subscription Receipt will be automatically converted into a unit comprised of one common share in the capital of Hemptown ("Hemptown Shares" and each such Hemptown Share, a "Hemptown Financing Share") and one-half of one common share purchase warrant of Hemptown (each whole warrant, a "Hemptown Financing Warrant"), and the Escrowed Funds, less the Agent's Cash Commission (as defined below) and the reasonable expenses of the Agent, will be released to Hemptown. Each Hemptown Financing Warrant will be exercisable into one additional Hemptown Share for two years from the date of satisfaction of the Escrow Release Condition (the "Escrow Release Date") at an exercise price of $1.15 per share.

The Escrow Release Condition must be satisfied on or before the later of: (a) 5:00 p.m. (Vancouver time) 120 days after the closing of the Concurrent Financing, and (b) such later date as Hemptown, Spectre and the Agent may agree in writing (in each case, the "Outside Date"). In the event that the Escrow Release Conditions are not satisfied by the Outside Date, the Escrowed Funds together with accrued interest earned thereon will be returned to the holders of the Subscription Receipts.

Pursuant to the Engagement Letter, the Agent will be paid a cash commission equal to 9% of the gross proceeds of the Concurrent Financing (the "Agent's Cash Commission"), provided that a commission of 4.5% will be paid in respect of sales to identified investors set out on a president's list provided by the Company to the Agent (the "President's List Purchasers"). On the closing of the Concurrent Financing, Hemptown has also agreed to pay to the Agent a corporate finance fee of $200,000, with 50% payable in cash and 50% payable by the issue of Hemptown Shares. The Agent will also receive broker warrants (the "Broker Warrants") exercisable into that number of Hemptown Shares as is equal to 9% of the total number of Subscription Receipts issued pursuant to the Concurrent Financing (4.5% in respect of Subscription Receipts issued to the President's List Purchasers). Each Broker Warrant will be exercisable at $0.85 per Hemptown Share for up to 24 months following the Escrow Release Date. Hemptown has also agreed to pay for the Agent's reasonable expenses incurred in connection with the Concurrent Financing.

It is expected that, pursuant to the Transaction the Hemptown Financing Shares, Hemptown Financing Warrants and Broker Warrants will be exchanged for, or become a right to purchase, as applicable, substantially similar securities of the Resulting Issuer.

Pursuant to the Engagement Letter, on completion of the Concurrent Financing, Hemptown and Spectre shall grant the Agent a right of first refusal to act as fiscal advisor or agent for financings and/or strategic transactions the Resulting Issuer proposes to undertake within a period of six months from the Escrow Release Date.

The closing of the Concurrent Financing is expected to occur on July 15, 2021, or such other date as may be agreed to by Hemptown, Spectre and the Agent.

Other Matters

The Company and Spectre are continuing to negotiate the terms of the definitive agreement with respect to the Transaction, and the parties expect the Transaction to be consummated by way of a plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia).

A filing statement respecting the Resulting Issuer and the Transaction will be prepared and filed in accordance with the policies of the Exchange.

Trading in Spectre's common shares has been halted in compliance with the policies of the Exchange, and will remain halted pending the review of the Transaction by the Exchange and satisfaction of the conditions of the Exchange for resumption of trading. It is likely that trading in Spectre's common shares will not resume prior to the closing of the Transaction.

Spectre has supplied all information contained in this news release with respect to Spectre and the Company and its directors and officers have relied on Spectre for any such information.

The securities described in this press release, and the securities into which they may be converted or exchanged, have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended) absent registration or an exemption from registration. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction where such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful.

Completion of the Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, Exchange acceptance and if applicable pursuant to Exchange Requirements, majority of the minority shareholder approval. Where applicable, the Transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the transaction will be completed as proposed or at all.

Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular or filing statement to be prepared in connection with the Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of a capital pool company should be considered highly speculative.

The TSX Venture Exchange Inc. has in no way passed upon the merits of the proposed Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

About Spectre

Spectre is a capital pool company governed by the policies of the Exchange. Spectre's principal business is the identification and evaluation of assets or businesses with a view to completing a Transaction.

About Hemptown

Hemptown is a diversified cannabinoid company delivering a wide product offering across the value chain, and in multiple sales channels, to meet the growing global demand for cannabinoid-based products. State-of-the-art cultivation in Oregon's Rogue Valley, FDA-licensed and cGMP certified product manufacturing, and a strong leadership team with Fortune 500 experience are the pillars for Hemptown's growth model as it pushes into the consumer-packaged goods sectors with top quality white label and branded product lines for the consumer market. For more information, visit www.hemptownusa.com.

For further information, please contact:

Hemptown Investor Relations

John Martin

jmartin@hemptownusa.com

1-833-436-7896

Hemptown Sales and General Inquiries

info@hemptownusa.com

1-888-224-6691

This news release contains statements that are "forward-looking information" as defined under Canadian securities laws ("forward-looking statements"). These forward looking statements are often identified by words such as "intends", "anticipates", "expects", "believes", "plans", "likely", or similar words. Specifically, this news release includes forward looking statements regarding the potential Transaction, the completion of, and the terms and conditions of, the Concurrent Financing, the negotiation of a definitive agreement for the Transaction, the closing of the Transaction and the timing for those events. The forward looking statements reflect the Company and Spectre's respective management's expectations, estimates, or projections concerning future results or events, based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates considered reasonable by management at the date the statements are made. Although the Company and Spectre believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements, as unknown or unpredictable factors could cause actual results to be materially different from those reflected in the forward looking statements. Among the key factors that could cause actual results to differ materially: whether the parties are successful in negotiating and entering a definitive agreement for the Transaction, whether they are able to obtain all necessary regulatory approvals for the Transaction and whether they are able to satisfy the listing conditions for the listing of the common shares of the Resulting Issuer on the Exchange; whether they are able to complete any necessary financing; and whether they are able to obtain all shareholder and third party consents necessary to complete the Transaction. The forward looking statements may be affected by risks and uncertainties in the business of the Company and Spectre, including those described in Spectre's amended and restated final prospectus dated February 12, 2020, filed with the British Columbia Securities Commission, the Alberta Securities Commission and the Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority of Saskatchewan and available on www.sedar.com.

Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85550
Greenville, South Carolina--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Apollo Assets, LLC is pleased to announce that it has signed agreements to represent Caduceus Software Systems, Corp. (OTC Pink: CSOC) and Majic Wheels, Corp. (OTC Pink: MJWL) as point of contact for Investor Relations. As part of this agreement, both CSOC and MJWL will have direct access to Apollo Assets' company discord where company executives will partake in live investor Q&As and company updates.

"The strategic value of Apollo's communication acumen is a boon to our ability to engage with shareholders and prospective investors. We are excited to be working with Taylor through this channel and feel it will help us reach and engage with a broader community of investors," said Alex Chen, CEO and Director of Caduceus.

To join future investor Q&As on the company platform, open a free account with Discord using this link: www.Discord.com.

Use this link to join and access the Apollo Assets Discord channel as well as the chat rooms for each company: https://discord.com/invite/apolloassets.

About Apollo Assets, LLC

Apollo Assets LLC is an internet and media company that owns and curates online social media platforms for the express purpose of investor outreach. Apollo Intends to position itself as the premier Investor Relations firm for both public and private companies. Apollo Assets LLC uses social media and investing platforms to assist clients with brand growth through organic means.

About Majic Wheels, Corp.

Majic Wheels, Corp., a Delaware corporation, intends to position itself as a player in the disruptive industries of Fintech and software development by means of an acquisition and merger. Majic Wheels Corp. is listed and traded on the Over-the-Counter Market under "MJWL".

About Caduceus Software Systems, Corp.

Caduceus Software Systems, Corp. is a Wyoming-based holding company focusing on the acquisition & merger of commercialized businesses. We are dedicated to supplying quality, healthy and innovative products and solutions. The Company is traded on the OTC Market under the trading symbol "CSOC".

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain matters discussed in this announcement contain statements, estimates and projections about the growth of Apollo Assets business, corporate growth, and related business strategy. Such statements may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Factors or events that could cause actual results to differ may emerge from time-to-time. Apollo Assets undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The recipient of this information is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Contacts

Taylor Glass

https://www.apollo-assets.com

taylor@apollo-assets.com

Apollo Assets LLC

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85553
CALGARY, AB / ACCESSWIRE / May 27, 2021 / Canadian Overseas Petroleum Limited (the "Company") (CSE:XOP)(LSE:COPL), is pleased to announced that further to its press release dated May 12, 2021, its application to its principal regulator, the Alberta Securities Commission (the "ASC"), for a management cease trade order (the "MCTO") under National Policy 12-203 - Management Cease Trade Orders ("NP 12-203") has been granted as of May 18, 2021. As previously announced, the application for the MCTO was made by the Company in order to secure additional time for the Company to prepare its unaudited interim financial statements and the applicable CEO and CFO certifications in respect of such filings for the period ended March 31, 2021 (collectively the "Interim Filings"). Under the terms of the MCTO, the Company's Interim Filings and any other periodic disclosure required to be filed pursuant to section 146 of the Securities Act (Alberta) while the MCTO is in effect (the "Other Disclosure") must be filed on or before June 30, 2021.

The MCTO restricts all trading in securities of the Company by the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of the Company until two full business days following the date the Company files the Interim Filings and Other Disclosure. The MCTO does not affect the ability of shareholders to trade their securities. However, the applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities could determine, in their discretion, that it would be appropriate to issue a general cease trade order against the Company affecting all of the securities of the Company. As previously announced, until filing of the Interim Filings and Other Disclosure, the Company confirms that it will satisfy the provisions of the alternative information guidelines under NP 12- 203 and will file on SEDAR every two weeks a default status report containing the information described in section 10 of NP 12-203.

Bi-weekly Status Report

The Company confirms that since the date of its submission for the MCTO on May 12, 2021 (the "MCTO Notice"): (i) there has been no material change to the information set out in the MCTO Notice that has not been generally disclosed; (ii) there has been no failure by the Company in fulfilling its stated intentions with respect to satisfying the provisions of the alternative information guidelines set out in NP 12-203; (iii) there has not been any other specified default by the Company under NP 12-203; and (iv) there is no other material information concerning the affairs of the Company that has not been generally disclosed.

The Company confirms that its directors, officers and insiders cannot trade the Company's securities until the Interim Filings have been made. The Company is working diligently to complete the Interim Filings. The MCTO stipulated that the Interim Filings were to be filed by no later than June 30, 2021 and the Company will be in a position to file the Interim Filings on or before that date. Until filing of the Interim Filings, the Company intends to satisfy the provisions of the alternative information guidelines as required by NP 12-203.

About the Company

COPL is an international oil and gas exploration, development and production company actively pursuing opportunities in the United States through the acquisition of Atomic Oil and Gas LLC with operations in Converse County Wyoming, and in sub-Saharan Africa through its ShoreCan joint venture company in Nigeria, and independently in other countries.

For further information, please contact:

Mr. Arthur Millholland, President & CEO

Canadian Overseas Petroleum Limited

Tel: + 1 (403) 262 5441

Cathy Hume

CHF Investor Relations

Tel: +1 (416) 868 1079 ext. 251

Email: cathy@chfir.com

Charles Goodwin

Yellow Jersey PR Limited

Tel: +44 (0) 77 4778 8221

Email: copl@yellowjerseypr.com

Forward-looking statements

This press release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking information" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that discusses predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, without limitation, statements relating to the timing for completion of the Interim Filings and other statements that are not historical facts. In making the forward-looking statements contained in this press release, the Company has made certain assumptions. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that the expectations of any forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward-looking statements or otherwise. The securities of the company have not been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This release is issued for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of any securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

The Canadian Securities Exchange (operated by CNSX Markets Inc.) has neither approved nor disapproved of the contents of this press release.

SOURCE: Canadian Overseas Petroleum Limited

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/649497/Canadian-Overseas-Petroleum-Limited-Announces-Approval-of-Application-of-Management-Cease-Trade-Order-and-Provides-First-Bi-Weekly-Status-Report
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - CopAur Minerals Inc. (TSXV: CPAU) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that further to the Company's news release May 14, 2021 the Company closed the non-brokered private placement consisting of 5,383,000 units ("Unit") at a price of $0.75 per Unit to raise gross proceeds of $4,037,250.25. The lead orders came from Crescat Portfolio Management LLC and Phoenix Gold Fund Limited.

The Unit will consist of 5,383,000 Units of the Company at a price of $0.75 and one-half of one common share purchase warrant ("Warrant"). Each full Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one common share of the Company for a two-year exercise period at a price of $1.25 per share. All securities issued in conjunction with this private placement are subject to a hold period expiring four months plus a day after the date of issuance. Insiders participated in the private placement of the offering taking 1,423,334 Units. A portion of the Private Placement constitutes a "related party transaction" within the meaning of TSXV Policy 5.9 and Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101") adopted in the Policy. The Company intends to rely on exemptions from the formal valuation and minority approval requirements in sections 5.5(b) and 5.7(e) of MI 61-101 on the basis that the Company is not listed on any specified senior stock exchanges and that the Company is facing financial hardship and the transactions are designed to improve the Company's financial position.

The proceeds received from this private placement will be used to advance the Williams gold and porphyry property in the Toodoggone trench area of northern BC and for general working capital.

The Company also announces that the board has approved the grant of 800,000 stock options to directors, officers, employees and consultants at an exercise price of $0.91 per share for a term of five years from the date of the grant. The stock options were granted in accordance with the Company's Stock Option Plan.

About CopAur Minerals Inc.

CPAU is an exploration company focused on advancing orogenic gold and copper porphyry targets on the William gold copper project, located within the prolific Golden Horseshoe of northern British Columbia, Canada. CopAur Minerals is ideally situated within the emerging Toodoggone District along the eastern Cordilleran gold belt, composed of the Sheep Creek, Cariboo, and Cassiar orogenic gold districts Backed by a dynamic and experienced team of resource sector professionals, including members of Benchmark Metals Inc. on its Advisory Board. The Williams project represents exceptional shareholder value with significant gold and copper potential.

On Behalf Of The Board Of Directors,

Jeremy Yaseniuk, CEO

For further information, please contact:

Jeremy Yaseniuk

CopAur Minerals Inc.

Telephone: 604-773-1467

Email: jeremyy@copaur.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 contains forward-looking statements. These statements relate to future events or Company's future performance. All such statements involve substantial known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results to vary from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, they should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results and they will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether or not such results will be achieved. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions on the date of this news release, the Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revised any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities regulations.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85569
LONDON, MUNICH, and PARIS, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Three of the world's premiere conferences focused on technology & entrepreneurship have announced agreements to work together to promote a Europe-wide network for startups, scaleups, investment and innovation globally.

Munich-based DLD, UK-based Founders Forum & Paris-based Viva Technology will cooperate on content, promotion and marketing, while retaining the unique character and communities that have made all three among the most important such gatherings in the world.

The partnership's formal launch will take place next month, when both Founders Forum and VivaTech hold their flagship annual events (16th - 17th June for FF and 16th - 19th June for VivaTech), among the first major in-person meetings since the start of the global pandemic.

Steffi Czerny, Founder & Managing Director of DLD, declared: "We live in an age where collaboration is more important than competition - especially in an innovation hotbed like Europe. DLD has long promoted unique European innovation ecosystems which need more mutual connection and international awareness.

Joining forces with VivaTech and Founders Forum, two strong players with the same strategic outlook, for me, is a great step towards building new and stronger bridges across our continent."

Brent Hoberman, Co-Founder & Executive Chairman of Founders Forum, declared: "We're always excited when Europe works together to drive our tech ecosystem's growth - we want to send a strong signal globally that this is the week for entrepreneurs to be in Europe, both this year and going forward."

Maurice Levy Co-Founder of VivaTech declared: "VivaTech since its inception plays a role of catalyst on Tech and startups generating lot of initiatives in Europe. There is still so much to do to make Europe home of startups, scale-ups and innovation that partnering with DLD and Founders Forum is almost a must. Working with Steffi and Brent will be a signal that yes, we cooperate in Europe and will make it home for innovators, scale-ups and tech entrepreneurs.

The combination will make Europe the place to be for speakers, investors, startups, exhibitors and visitors."

About Viva Technology - In only 4 years, VivaTech has become Europe's biggest startup and tech event and is recognized worldwide as a powerful catalyst for business transformation, startup growth and innovation for the common good. VivaTech brings together in Paris every year business leaders, startuppers, investors, researchers and thinkers from around the world for a unique experience combining inspiration, networking and innovation discovery. Starting 2021, VivaTech will be enriched with a digital platform that will bring together an even larger community of innovators. In 2019, VivaTech had already reached 231 million people worldwide, bringing together 124,000 visitors including more than 13,000 start-ups, 3,000 venture capital firms and 2,500 journalists from 124 countries. The 5th edition of VivaTech will be held on June 16-19, 2021.



For more information

https://vivatechnology.com/media/ and @VivaTech

Media contacts

Romain Sulpice

rsulpice@vivatechnology.com

Lea Roos

vivatech@publicisconsultants.com

About Founders Forum - Founders Forum is an event-powered, global community of founders, corporate and global leaders, rising star talent and senior investors, from across the technology landscape, where ideas are shared, supported and brought to life. Since 2005, Founders Forum have hosted their Flagship London Forum and invite-only Forums in cities across the world including, New York, Tel-Aviv, Singapore, Helsinki, Hong-Kong and Beijing. In 2021, the 15th Anniversary of Founders Forum London will be hosted June 16-17.



For more information

https://ff.co/ and @Founders_Forum

Media contact

Ellie Cunningham

theteam@ff.co

About DLD- DLD (Digital, Life, Design) is a conference platform for the multi-faceted and critical debate around the global opportunities and challenges of our technology-driven age. As an interdisciplinary, internationally connected community, DLD hosts conferences and events in destinations such as Munich, Tel Aviv, New York, Palo Alto Singapore, and Brussels which connect visionaries, business leaders, political decision-makers, opinion-formers, scientists and artists for crossover conversation and inspiration.



DLD was co-founded in 2005 by Steffi Czerny, Managing Director of DLD, and is part of German-based, internationally operating media and technology company Hubert Burda Media. DLD owes its international success and reputation in particular to its three chairmen, publisher Hubert Burda, high-tech investor Yossi Vardi and Hubert Burda Media CEO Paul-Bernhard Kallen.



For more information

www.dld.co

Media contact

Heiko Schlott

heiko.schlott@dld-conference.com

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Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1520347/dld_logo.jpg

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WEX (NYSE: WEX), a leading financial technology service provider, today released its inaugural Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report to communicate how the company is addressing the ESG impacts that are most important to its investors, employees, and communities.

This report advances WEX's ESG efforts with increased focus and improved public disclosure related to its environmental commitment, diversity and inclusion initiatives, social responsibility, talent management and development, and governance. This first ESG report acts as a foundation for greater transparency in these five areas as part of WEX's ESG strategy and execution in 2021 and beyond.

"While our business has always been aligned with corporate and social responsibility, our ESG report reflects WEX's commitment to continuous improvement as we strive to become an even more sustainable and resilient business," said Melissa Smith, chair and chief executive officer of WEX. "We have great efforts and initiatives underway, and we have a lot of important work ahead of us. As with everything we do at WEX, our core values of integrity, execution, innovation, relationships and community will guide us."

In 2019, WEX began expansion beyond CSR and formalized its focus around ESG with a goal of greater transparency and strengthened competencies. Highlights and progress addressed in the report include:

Diversity and inclusion:

WEX has expanded its recruiting outreach from 12 campuses in 2015 to reaching more than 500 colleges and universities in 2019, with recruiting efforts focusing on historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

WEX has sponsored several employee resource groups (ERGs), grassroots affinity groups created by employees and based on a common experience or identity. Current ERGs include early career professionals; parents; women in tech, the LGBTQIA+ community; women; employees of color; employees with differing abilities; and multicultural employee interests.

Environmental:

WEX is currently in the process of reducing data centers from 28 to seven locations by the end of 2022. For the seven remaining data centers to be closed, WEX has achieved over 90% reduction of power and cooling consumption.

The company offers employees in certain areas incentives to participate in low-impact commuting.

Governance:

WEX has a stated commitment to gender diversity on the board.

WEX has a comprehensive business continuity and resilience framework within which our organization operates. That framework focuses on response and recovery, and on proactive risk management.

WEX has adopted the ISO 27001/27002 framework for protecting information assets, has maintained PCI and HIPAA compliance, and has HITRUST certification for our health division.

The company conducts cyber-security awareness training programs to educate employees about emerging threats, security trends and their role in helping to protect against them.

Social responsibility:

WEX has a global philanthropy and community program with several components including charitable giving; enterprise fundraising campaigns; a matching gift program; a volunteerism and civic engagement component; nonprofit board service; and the WEX Compassion Fund, which offers relief for employees with critical financial needs caused by a qualified disaster or other hardship.

It also has an annual "Month of Caring" in May, when employees are encouraged to engage with a local nonprofit and give back to their local communities by participating in hands-on volunteer activities.

Talent:

WEX strategically recruits diverse, qualified candidates to cultivate its culture of innovation and fostering creativity.

In addition to comprehensive benefits and training, WEX designed and launched a career development center (Thrive in My Career) as a virtual learning resource. As the COVID-19 pandemic hit, this robust program allowed WEX to quickly pivot to provide an online platform and remote resources to its employees

"We are excited to continue developing and articulating our ESG program, and we are proud of WEX's heritage and culture that has brought us to where we are today," said Hilary Rapkin, chief legal officer of WEX. "This report highlights our dedication to greater transparency and disclosure, and we encourage your input, collaboration, and support as we move forward on our ESG journey."

WEX's inaugural ESG report leverages the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) framework to understand and communicate what is of most relevance to its investors. WEX also referred to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and industry best practices to identify areas of interest to a broader group of stakeholders, including its employees, customers, partners, and the communities in which it operates. Lastly, WEX has compared its activities to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and aligned its activities with these five global goals: good health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, decent work and economic growth, and responsible consumption and production.

About WEX

Powered by the belief that complex payment systems can be made simple, WEX (NYSE: WEX) is a leading financial technology service provider across a wide spectrum of sectors, including fleet, corporate payments, travel and health. WEX has offices in more than 10 countries and employs more than 5,200 associates around the world. WEX fleet cards offer approximately 16 million vehicles exceptional payment security and control; purchase volume in travel and corporate solutions was $20.9 billion in 2020 and was processed in over 20 currencies; our health division provides consumer-directed healthcare technology and services, and reached an estimated 34.3 million U.S. consumers as of March 31, 2021. For more information, visit www.wexinc.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005884/en/

Contacts:

WEX Media Contact

Robert Gould

Robert.Gould@wexinc.com

(207) 523-7429
Record revenues of $2.8 million in Q1 2021, a 49% increase from the prior year and 13% increase from Q4 2020

in Q1 2021, a 49% increase from the prior year and 13% increase from Q4 2020 Record gross profits (before fair market value adjustments) of $1.1 million , a 171% improvement over Q4 2020 and record consolidated gross margin of 38%

, a 171% improvement over Q4 2020 and record consolidated gross margin of 38% Medical cannabis sales reach 20% of revenues, contributing over 45% of gross profits

More than 7,500 prescriptions filled in Q1 2021 and over 19,000 to date

First sales in Germany achieved in Q1 2021, with international sales representing approximately 10% of total Medical Cannabis Product revenues

achieved in Q1 2021, with international sales representing approximately 10% of total Medical Cannabis Product revenues Khiron real-world evidence is improving physician engagement, patient outcomes and strategic decision-making; initial results show significant benefits to quality of life as well as significant cost benefit to key insurance clients

$12.5 million in cash as of March 31, 2021 with working capital of $22.5 million

TORONTO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Khiron Life Sciences Corp. ("Khiron" or the "Company") (TSXV: KHRN) (OTCQX: KHRNF)(Frankfurt: A2JMZC), a vertically integrated cannabis leader with core operations in Latin America and Europe, announced today its financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2021. These filings are available for review on the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. All financial information in this press release is reported in Canadian dollars, unless otherwise indicated.

Summary of Key Financial Results



3 Months 3 Months 3 Months

ended Mar ended Mar ended Dec Canadian dollars 31 2021 31 2020 31 2020

$ $ $ Revenues ('000s) 2,837 1,901 2,518 Medical Cannabis 563 1 234 Gross profit before fair value adjustments ('000s) 1,090 437 402 General and administrative costs ('000s) 5,592 5,847 5,157 Net loss ('000s) (5,494) (9,237) (2,374) Adjusted EBITDA (1) ('000s) (4,019) (5,865) (4,335) Net loss per share (basic and diluted) (0.04) (0.08) (0.01) Weighted average shares outstanding ('000s) 150,718 116,607 130,292

(1) Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization or in this case loss) is a non-International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") measure calculated as net loss before tax as reported under IFRS and adding back share-based compensation expense, transaction fees, unrealized gain on changes in fair value of biological assets, depreciation and non-recurring items. Refer to the "Non-IFRS Measures" note below for further information and the Company's MD&A for a reconciliation.

Q1 2021 operating highlights and subsequent events

Insurance coverage in Colombia continues to be a catalyst for growth, with more than 7,500 prescriptions filled in Q1 2021 and over 19,000 prescriptions filled to date. With continued month-over-month growth, Q2 2021 continues to build on the achievements of Q1 2021.

continues to be a catalyst for growth, with more than 7,500 prescriptions filled in Q1 2021 and over 19,000 prescriptions filled to date. With continued month-over-month growth, Q2 2021 continues to build on the achievements of Q1 2021. Insurance coverage continues to improve patient access to medical cannabis, with the percentage of prescriptions issued and covered by insurance increasing from over 40% in Q4 2020 to over 60% in Q1 2021.

Returning medical cannabis patients in Colombia reached nearly 50% in Q1 2021, as compared to approximately 20% in Q3 2020, providing a more stable Medical Cannabis revenue base.

reached nearly 50% in Q1 2021, as compared to approximately 20% in Q3 2020, providing a more stable Medical Cannabis revenue base. Khiron real-world evidence is improving physician engagement, patient outcomes and strategic decision-making.

Initial analysis of Khiron medical cannabis patient data for various neuropathic conditions shows a significant reduction in the intake of other medications (including opioids), improved quality of life, and material annual savings. Khiron's patient data continues to mount and will provide real-world evidence for pharmacoeconomic studies intended to support the Company's goal of reaching more patients.

Following the initial success of its Medellin satellite clinic, the Company opened five additional satellite clinics in Colombia in 2021, for a total of nine clinics including the three health centres in Bogota and six satellite clinics across the country.

satellite clinic, the Company opened five additional satellite clinics in in 2021, for a total of nine clinics including the three health centres in and six satellite clinics across the country. Khiron recently partnered with the Colombia Cancer League to deliver an additional 3,000 medical cannabis patient consultations during the month of June, in collaboration with 21 leading medical institutions in 11 cities throughout Colombia .

. Q1 2021 medical cannabis sales in Peru increased by over 175% compared to sales in 2020 (which began late in Q3 2020). Given the positive reception to Khiron products in Peru , the Company expects to open its first international Zerenia satellite clinic in Peru in the coming weeks.

increased by over 175% compared to sales in 2020 (which began late in Q3 2020). Given the positive reception to Khiron products in , the Company expects to open its first international Zerenia satellite clinic in in the coming weeks. The Company plans to deploy its Zerenia medical cannabis clinic and telehealth strategy in Mexico and Brazil , building on the success of its vertical integration strategy in Colombia .

and , building on the success of its vertical integration strategy in . In March 2021 , the Company successfully exported its Colombian-registered cannabis strains, in the form of live clones, from Colombia to Europe .

, the Company successfully exported its Colombian-registered cannabis strains, in the form of live clones, from to . In March 2021 , Khiron commenced sales in Germany with the successful delivery of EU-GMP medical cannabis products. Khiron 1/14 (High CBD flower) has been used to treat indications such as anxiety, substance-use disorder and migraines.

, Khiron commenced sales in with the successful delivery of EU-GMP medical cannabis products. Khiron 1/14 (High CBD flower) has been used to treat indications such as anxiety, substance-use disorder and migraines. The Company continues to advance its operations in the UK. In April 2021 , the Company introduced Khiron 1/14 (High CBD flower) in addition to 5-gram jars of flower products. In addition, the Company's medical cannabis e-learning certification, Khiron Academy, recently received accreditation for Continuing Professional Development credits in the UK.

Discussion of Operations for the Three Months Ending March 31, 2021

During the first quarter of 2021, the Company reported record revenues of $2.8 million, a 49% increase as compared to Q1 2020 due to normalized clinic operations and the growth of medical cannabis sales. Relative to Q4 2020, first quarter revenues increased 13% due to a 141% increase in Medical Cannabis Product sales, which reached $563,000 in the quarter, as the Company benefited from medical cannabis insurance coverage in its core market of Colombia.

At $1.1 million, or 38% of revenues, the Company achieved record gross profits due to increasing Medical Cannabis Product sales and margin improvements within the Health Services segment. Notably, Medical Cannabis margins remained high at 90% of revenues, while Health Service margins increased to 26% of revenues in Q1 2021, from 7% in Q4 2020.

In Q1 2021, the Company incurred lower general and administrative costs as compared to Q1 2020 due cost cutting measures implemented in the second quarter of 2020 and the devaluation of the Colombian peso. Overall, the Company recorded a net loss of $5.5 million in Q1 2021, which compares to a net loss of $9.2 million in Q1 2020 and $2.4 million in Q4 2020. Adjusted EBITDA losses of $4.0 million compared to losses of $5.9 million in Q1 2020 due to ongoing cost management initiatives and improved sales and margins.

Management Commentary

"Q1 was a record quarter for the company, in terms of both revenues and gross profits, driven by strong results in our Medical Cannabis segment, which achieved another quarter of more than 100% growth. Insurance coverage for medical cannabis in Colombia continues to have a positive impact, providing greater revenue stability as returning patients reached 50% of medical cannabis patient volumes in Q1. I am also happy to report that our gross profits were well above Q4 2020, driven by strong clinic performance and growth from our vertical integrated medical cannabis strategy. As of April, prescriptions in Colombia were already equal to 44% of those filled in Q1, positioning us for another record quarter in Q2," comments Alvaro Torres, Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Company.

"In Europe, our world-class team continues to execute, recently delivering first sales in Germany and a strategic partnership with Cellen Therapeutics, a leader in digital healthcare in the UK and fellow founding member of Project Twenty21. We also received UK CPD accreditation for our global medical cannabis education platform, Khiron Academy, and imported the first ever live cannabis clones from Colombia to Europe. Collectively, these achievements will help us deliver on our mission of improving patients' lives by increasing access to medical cannabis products both at home and abroad," continued Alvaro Torres.

Webcast Details

Khiron invites individual and institutional investors, as well as advisors and analysts, to attend a webcast and Q&A to discuss the Company's Q1 2021 financial statements and further activities.

DATE: May 28, 2021

TIME: 10:00am ET/7:00am PT

PRESENTERS: Alvaro Torres, Khiron Chief Executive Officer and Director, Joel Friedman, Khiron Chief Financial Officer, and Chris Naprawa, Chairman of Khiron's Board of Directors

FORMAT: Live 30 minutes presentation & Q&A session

REGISTER LINK:

https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/3196006/0652A31C731C234FE0C2F998FCEBFFEB

About Khiron Life Sciences Corp.

Khiron is a vertically integrated medical and CPG cannabis company with core operations in Latin America, and operational activity in Europe and North America. Khiron is the leading medical cannabis provider in Colombia and the first company licensed in Colombia for the cultivation, production, domestic distribution and sales, and international export of both low and high THC medical cannabis products. The Company has filled medical cannabis prescriptions in Colombia, Peru, Germany and the United Kingdom, and is positioned to commence sales in Mexico and Brazil in 2021.

Leveraging wholly-owned medical clinics and proprietary telemedicine platforms, Khiron combines a patient-oriented approach, physician education programs, scientific expertise, product innovation, and agricultural infrastructure to drive prescriptions and brand loyalty. Its Wellbeing unit launched the first branded CBD skincare brand in Colombia, with KuidaTM now marketed in multiple jurisdictions in Latin America, the US and United Kingdom. The Company is led by Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Alvaro Torres, together with an experienced and diverse executive team and Board of Directors.

Visit Khiron online at investors.khiron.ca and on Instagram @khironlife.

Cautionary Notes

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All information contained herein that is not historical in nature may constitute forward-looking information. Khiron undertakes no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third-parties in respect of Khiron, its securities, or financial or operating results (as applicable). Although Khiron believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements in this press release are reasonable, such forward-looking statement has been based on expectations, factors and assumptions concerning future events which may prove to be inaccurate and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond Khiron's control, including the risk factors discussed in Khiron's Annual Information Form which is available on Khiron's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement and is made as of the date hereof. Khiron disclaims any intention and has no obligation or responsibility, except as required by law, to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

Investor Contact:

Paola Ricardo

E: investors@khiron.ca

T: +1 (647) 556-5750

Media Contact:

Elsa Navarro

Vice President, Communications

E: enavarro@khiron.ca

Khiron Europe:

Tejinder Virk

Europe President

E: tvirk@khiron.ca

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1520391/Khiron_Life_Sciences_Corp__Khiron_Life_Sciences_Reports_First_Qu.jpg
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Chesapeake Gold Corp. (TSXV: CKG) (OTCQX: CHPGF) ("Chesapeake" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Erick Underwood as Chief Financial Officer ("CFO") to its senior management team.

Mr. Underwood brings over 25 years of international experience in accounting, financial management and corporate development in the mining industry including 14 years while being based in Chile and Peru. Most recently, Erick was the Finance Director at Cia. Minera Zafranal SA owner of the Zafranal copper project ("Zafanal") in southern Peru (Teck Resources Ltd. and Mitsubishi Materials Corporation joint venture). Previously, he was the Chief Financial Officer of AQM Copper Inc., a TSX-V listed company where he contributed to the development of the Zafranal project and subsequent sale of AQM Copper Inc. to Teck Resources Ltd.

Mr. Underwood has also worked as an independent Business Planning consultant to several major mining companies including Newmont-Barrick (Norte Abierto), Marcobre (Mina Justa) and Teck Resources Ltd. (Highland Valley Copper). His prior experience also includes senior management positions with Cia. Minera Antamina and BHP Billiton Base Metals. Erick played key roles in securing approval for investment projects such as Highland Valley Copper ($475 million mine extension and mill modernization), Antamina ($1.3 billion 130,000 tpd expansion) and Spence ($950 million greenfield project).

Mr. Alan Pangbourne, Chief Executive Officer, states, "We are very pleased to welcome Erick to the executive team. Erick's expertise and leadership with major project developments, operational analysis and finance will be an enormous asset as we advance the development of our Metates project. The Company also wishes to thank and recognize the efforts of Sam Wong, who has led the Company's finance function as CFO over the last nine years. We wish Sam continued success in his future endeavours."

About Chesapeake

Chesapeake Gold Corp. is focused on the discovery, acquisition and development of major gold-silver deposits in North and South America. Chesapeake's flagship asset is the Metates project ("Metates") located in Durango State, Mexico. Metates hosts one of the largest undeveloped gold-silver-zinc deposits in the Americas with over 18 million ounces of gold and over 500 million ounces of silver.

Chesapeake also has developed an organic pipeline of satellite exploration properties strategically located near Metates. In addition, the Company owns 74% of Gunpoint Exploration Ltd. ("Gunpoint") which owns the Talapoosa gold project in Nevada.

For Further Information:

For more information on Chesapeake and its Metates Project, please visit our website at www.chesapeakegold.com or contact Randy Reifel or Alan Pangbourne at 604-731-1094 or at invest@chesapeakegold.com.

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 news release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85540
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 27, 2021 / Lincoln Gold Mining Inc. ("Lincoln" or the "Company") (TSXV:LMG) is pleased to announce that, further to its press release dated May 5, 2021, its previously announced private placement will be oversubscribed. The Company now proposes to issue up to 2,770,000 units of the Company (the "Units") at a price of $0.15 per Unit to raise gross proceeds of up to $415,500. Net proceeds from the Private Placement will be primarily used towards the mine operations permitting process for the Pine Grove Gold Project in Nevada, a pre-feasibility study and for general working capital purposes.

Each Unit will consist of one common share in the capital of the Company (a "Common Share") and one Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder, on exercise thereof, to purchase one additional Common Share at a price of $0.25 for a period of 24 months from the closing of the Private Placement.

Closing of the Private Placement is subject to all necessary regulatory approvals including acceptance from the TSX Venture Exchange. All securities issued in connection with the Private Placement will be subject to a four-month hold period from the closing date under applicable Canadian securities laws, in addition to such other restrictions as may apply under applicable securities laws of jurisdictions outside Canada. Certain insiders of the Company may acquire Units under the Private Placement. Finders' fees may be payable in connection with the Offering and those qualified persons involved as finders will receive a cash fee of up to 7% of the proceeds raised and such number of warrants (having the same terms as the warrants forming part of the Units) equal to up to 7% of the total number of Units sold.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws, unless an exemption from such registration is available.

About Lincoln

Lincoln Gold Mining Inc. is an advanced-stage gold mine exploration and development company holding a 100% interest in the Pine Grove Gold Project, in the Walker Lane structural zone of western Nevada. The Company has prepared a preliminary economic assessment of the Pine Grove Gold Project pursuant to National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Lincoln is working with the USFS to secure the permits necessary to develop the Pine Grove Gold Project into a low-cost heap leach operation with a high-grade gravity circuit.

Lincoln also owns an interest in a joint venture in respect of the Oro Cruz Gold Property in California. Lincoln's joint venture partner is advancing the Oro Cruz Gold Property towards further exploration, development and production.

Lincoln is developing exploration plans for the newly acquired Shawinigan Quebec property to evaluate the copper, nickel, and cobalt opportunities at the site. Per the option agreement, Lincoln will expend a minimum of $250,000 over the next 12 months.

Lincoln holds its interests in the US projects through its wholly owned subsidiaries, Lincoln Resource Group Corp. and Lincoln Gold US Corporation, both Nevada corporations

For more information, please contact Paul Saxton, President and CEO of the Company.

On behalf of Lincoln Gold Mining Inc.

Paul Saxton

President and CEO, Lincoln Gold Mining Inc.

Tel: (604) 688-7377

Email: saxton @ lincolnmining.com

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information:

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.

All statements, trend analysis and other information contained in this press release relative to markets about anticipated future events or results constitute forward-looking statements.. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, including, without limitation, statements relating to the private placement, permitting process, future production of Pine Grove Gold Project, budget and timing estimates, the Company's working capital and financing opportunities and statements regarding the exploration and mineralization potential of the Company's properties, are forward-looking statements. Forward- looking statements are subject to business and economic risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results of operations to differ materially from those contained in the forward- looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Lincoln's expectations include fluctuations in commodity prices and currency exchange rates; uncertainties relating to interpretation of drill results and the geology, continuity and grade of mineral deposits; the need for cooperation of government agencies and native groups in the exploration and development of properties and the issuance of required permits; the need to obtain additional financing to develop properties and uncertainty as to the availability and terms of future financing; the possibility of delay in exploration or development programs and uncertainty of meeting anticipated program milestones; and uncertainty as to timely availability of permits and other governmental approvals. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and opinions of management at the date the statements are made. Lincoln does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward- looking statements.

SOURCE: Lincoln Gold Mining Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/649511/Lincoln-Gold-Announces-Oversubscription-of-Private-Placement
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Harvest One Cannabis Inc. (TSXV: HVT) (OTCQB: HRVOF) ("Harvest One" or the "Company"), a uniquely positioned cannabis-infused CPG leader, with brands LivRelief TM and Dream Water TM products, is pleased to announce its fiscal Q3 financial and operating results for the three and nine months ended March 31, 2021.

Management Commentary

"Our third quarter financial results reinforce the continued improvement of the Company's operating performance and financial position," said Gord Davey, President and Chief Executive officer of Harvest One. "Management's continued focus on targeted sales, marketing, operational improvements and cost reductions, is reflected in considerably improved profit margins and bottom line results on a quarterly year-to-date basis. We will build on this positive momentum and continue to execute on the Company's commercial strategy and growth initiatives."

Mr. Davey continued, "During the third quarter, the Company executed on key strategic projects including the divestiture of its Satipharm and Phytotech subsidiaries, as well as a bought deal financing with Research Capital Corporation and ATB Capital Markets Inc. These projects further strengthened the Company's liquidity position to support the growth of its global CPG business and build on the ongoing success of its LivRelief TM cannabis-infused topicals. We are encouraged with this ongoing progress and remain committed to the growth of our brands in North American and global markets through focused sales, marketing and expanded distribution channels, while maintaining rigorous cost control and fiscal responsibility."

Financial and Operating Highlights for the Quarter:

Reported $2.02 million revenue from continuing operations during the current quarter compared to $1.88 million during the same period in 2020. Product mix continues to transition from cultivation to CPG products.

37% gross profit from continuing operations during the current quarter compared to 24% during the same period in 2020. This increase is driven by continuous operational improvements and cost control initiatives over the last nine months.

Adjusted EBITDA(1) loss of $0.98 million during the quarter compared to a loss of approximately $1.6 million for the same period in 2020, representing an improvement of approximately 38%, primarily due to higher gross profits and quarter over quarter reduction in selling, general and administrative expenses ("SG&A").

The Company had current assets of $15.87 million (June 30, 2020 - $28.4 million) and current liabilities of $8.66 million (June 30, 2020 - $19.19 million) as at March 31, 2021. Further reductions of current liabilities remains an area of focus in the short to medium term.

On March 17, 2021, the Company closed an oversubscribed $5,750 bought-deal public offering with Research Capital Corporation, as sole bookrunner, and ATB Capital Markets Inc., as the co-lead underwriters, pursuant to which the Company issued 37,096,700 units of the Company (the "Units") at a price of $0.155 per Unit for gross proceeds to the Company of approximately $5.75 million (the "Offering"), including the full exercise of an over-allotment option.

On March 29, 2021, the Company announced the conclusion of its Strategic Review. Key achievements of the Strategic Review include: Asset light and streamlined business model - repositioned the Company from cultivation and processing to a lean, non-capital-intensive cannabis-infused and non-infused CPG operation focusing on innovation, sales, marketing and distribution channels. Management is keenly focused on its core competencies, as well as market trends and consumer needs, while utilizing strategic manufacturing partners to advance the Company's CPG business model. Improved financial position and liquidity - completed the strategic divestiture of five non-core assets, materially improving the Company's balance sheet and liquidity with non-dilutive capital reducing both short and long-term liabilities. The recent closing of the Offering significantly improved the working capital position of the Company and its ability to invest in branding and marketing activities. Corporate Structure - significant changes with the Company's management team and leadership model, thereby creating a flatter corporate structure with a strong CPG-focused management team. This corporate structure was stress tested over the last 12 months resulting in the ability of the Company to navigate the capital markets and close the Offering.



Subsequent to Quarter End:

On April 8, 2021, the Company granted an aggregate of 5,995,000 incentive stock options under the Company's stock option plan to certain directors, officers and employees of the Company. The options are exercisable at a price of $0.12 per share and will have a term of five years from the date of issuance.

On May 13, 2021, the Company announced the launch of its new LivRelief product SKU, Extra Strength Transdermal CBD Cream, which will launch on the Medical Cannabis by Shoppers platform in June 2021 as part of its strategic growth and brand expansion initiatives. The new LivRelief Extra Strength Transdermal CBD Cream contains 750mgs of CBD and will offer consumers three times the amount of cannabinoids found in the LivRelief CBD Cream.

Summary of Key Financial Results

For the three months ended For the nine months ended March 31 March 31 2021 2020 2021 2020 Select Financial Information $ $ $ $ Net revenue 2,027 1,880 5,785 5,519 Gross profit 745 451 2,193 1,126 Expenses 1,928 4,215 7,772 13,665 Asset impairment and write-downs (485) 27,465 8,700 35,365 Loss from operations (698) (31,229) (14,279) (47,904) Net loss attributable to common shareholders (1,716) (36,364) (19,765) (56,616) Net loss per share - basic and diluted (0.01) (0.16) (0.09) (0.26) Weighted average number of Common Shares 221,148,418 214,753,073 217,072,931 214,497,526 Adjusted EBITDA(1) (985) (1,601) (3,653) (6,879)

March 31 June 30 2021 2020 Select Statements of Financial Position Information $ $ Cash 5,276 1,406 Current assets 15,877 28,413 Non-current assets 13,304 29,431 Current liabilities 8,668 19,194 Non-current liabilities 2,064 2,080 Equity 18,449 36,570

Strategic Review & Impact on Operations

The execution of the Strategic Review announced in February 2020 continues to have its impact on Q3 financial results and reflect consistent improvements over the same period last year. The strategy of focusing operations on CPG and infused cannabis, divesting non-core assets, reducing overheads resulted in restructuring initiatives and cost control measures leading to a material impact on the Company's overall financial performance throughout fiscal 2021.

Overall revenue for the Company's Consumer segment has remained consistent despite the continued impact of COVID and associated travel restrictions across North America and the globe. Adjusted EBITDA(1) loss improved significantly, with a $3.2 million favorable increase year over year representing a 50% improvement over the same period in the prior year, primarily due to slightly higher revenue, significantly higher gross profit, and a sizable reduction in SG&A.

Cash used in operating activities correlates with the above improvements and was $8.3 million for the nine months ended March 31, 2021, compared to $18.3 million for the same period in the prior year, resulting in a decrease of $10.0 million.

Outlook

Management anticipates sales volumes, net revenues, and adjusted EBITDA(1) to improve throughout the next fiscal year due to a full year of infused topical sales, expanded distribution coverage, launch initiatives, branding initiatives, improvements in gross profit, and a continued focus on reducing overhead costs.

About Harvest One

Harvest One is a global cannabis infused CPG leader that develops and distributes premium health, wellness and self-care products, including LivRelief TM and Dream Water TM products, with a market focus on sleep and pain. Harvest One is a uniquely positioned company in the cannabis space with a focus on cannabis-infused and non-infused consumer packaged goods. For more information, please visit www.harvestone.com.

Non-IFRS Measures, Reconciliation and Discussion

This press release contains references to "Adjusted EBITDA" which is a non-IFRS financial measure. Adjusted EBITDA is a measure of the Company's loss from operations before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization and adjusted for share-based compensation, common shares issued for services, fair value effects of accounting for biological assets and inventories, asset impairment and write-downs, and other non-cash items, and is a non-IFRS measure.

This measure can be used to analyze and compare profitability among companies and industries, as it eliminates the effects of financing and capital expenditures. It is often used in valuation ratios and can be compared to enterprise value and revenue. This measure does not have any standardized meaning according to IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies.

There are no comparable IFRS financial measures presented in Harvest One's financial statements. Reconciliations of the supplemental non-IFRS measure are presented in the Company's management's discussion and analysis for March 31, 2021. This non-IFRS financial measure is presented because management has evaluated the financial results both including and excluding the adjusted items and believes that the non-IFRS financial measure presented provide additional perspective and insights when analyzing the core operating performance of the business. The Company believes that the supplemental measure provides information which is useful to shareholders and investors in understanding our performance and may assist in the evaluation of the Company's business relative to that of its peers.

The non-IFRS financial measure should not be considered superior to, as a substitute for, or as an alternative to, and should be considered in conjunction with, the IFRS financial measures presented in the Company's financial statements. For more information, please see "Adjusted EBITDA (non-IFRS measure)" and "Non-IFRS Measures" in the Company's management's discussion and analysis for March 31, 2021, which is available under the Company's profile on www.sedar.com.

Notes:

This is a non-IFRS reporting measure. For a reconciliation of this to the nearest IFRS measure, see "Adjusted EBITDA (non-IFRS measure)" and "Non-IFRS Measures" in the Company's management discussion and analysis for March 31, 2021.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates, and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. In this news release, forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements with respect to future expansion plans, initiatives and strategies of the Company, and the Company's performance, growth initiatives, profitability, production capacity and gain in market share.

These forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of the Company at the time such statements were made. Actual future results may differ materially as forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to materially differ from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors, among other things, include: implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Company's operations; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; expectations regarding the size of the cannabis markets where the Company operates; changing consumer habits; the ability of the Company to successfully achieve its business objectives; plans for expansion; political and social uncertainties; inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; employee relations and the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on cultivation, production, distribution, and sale of cannabis and cannabis-related products in the markets where the Company operates. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. The Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law.

Additional information regarding this and other risks and uncertainties relating to the Company's business are contained under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's AIF, and under the heading "Risks and Uncertainties" in the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis dated October 28, 2020, for the year ended June 30, 2020, filed under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Neither TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Investor Relations:

Jack Tasse

Investor Relations

IR@harvestone.com

1-877-915-7934

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85571
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Raise Production Inc. (TSXV: RPC) ("Raise" or the "Company") has released its financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2021. Selected financial and operational information is outlined below and should be read in conjunction with Raise's financial statements and management's discussion and analysis for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.



HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE QUARTER

The Company negotiated an exclusive license agreement with Q2 Artificial Lift Services ("Q2 ALS") for the manufacturing, sales and service of the Company's HARP TM and REAL TM products.

and REAL products. The Company continued to implement actions to preserve its cash position while maintaining its ability to effectively service and supply its customers.

The net loss for quarter ended March 31, 2021 decreased 75% compared to the quarter ended March 31, 2020 and 62% compared to the quarter ended December 31, 2020 primarily as a result of the Company's cost cutting actions.

Revenue from contracts with customers for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 increased 129% compared to the quarter ended March 31, 2020 and decreased 15% compared to the quarter ended December 31, 2020 primarily as a result of the Company's inventory sales to Q2 ALS beginning in November 2020 and accounting for 77% of all sales over the last two quarters.

PRESIDENT'S UPDATE

The Company is providing an update to its shareholders on its financial results and recent activities related to its operations.

The Company has three systems that can be used independently or in combination in horizontal wellbores:

the High Angle Reciprocating Pump ("HARPTM"); the Raise Efficient Artificial Lift ("REALTM") Horizontal Separator the Horizontal Artificial Recovery Technology ("HARTTM").

As stated in the Company's last press release dated April 28, 2021, it has entered into an exclusive rights agreement with Q2 ALS for the manufacturing, sales and service of the Company's HARPTM and REALTM products in exchange for a ten-year royalty payment on all Raise products sold as complete components or parts.

Q2 ALS is one of the largest innovators and suppliers of artificial lift equipment in the world with its head office and manufacturing facility in Red Deer, Alberta and 34 service locations throughout North America as well as an international footprint. Q2 ALS will be responsible for all IP legal fees associated with the technology for the term of the royalty agreement. To ensure the transition and continuity of the Raise product lines, certain key employees have been transferred to Q2 ALS including a senior design engineer and senior technical sales and service support engineer.

As stated in previous press releases, the Company has taken significant steps to reduce its overhead and this has included moving premises, shutting down the Company's internal manufacturing operations, terminating eight employees, selling machinery, terminating machinery and vehicle leases, and reducing working hours for the remaining staff resulting in up to 60% salary reductions. The Company has also recently initiated an auction sale of surplus shop equipment which ends on June 2, 2021. All remaining HARPTM and REALTM inventory has now been transferred to Q2 ALS on a pay as used basis.

Raise will continue pursuing alternate corporate strategies including a partner to develop the HARTTM horizontal pumping system while realizing payments from royalties and maintaining a minimum cost structure and will provide additional updates as it proceeds and evaluates potential alternative scenarios.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Statements of Loss and Comprehensive Loss Three Months ended March 31 2021 2020 Revenue from contracts with customers $ 271,983 $ 118,877 Cost of sales 157,347 62,183 Gross margin 114,636 56,694 Other income - 1,869 Expenses: General and administration 149,811 437,272 Finance costs 62,651 65,826 Depreciation and amortization 21,959 59,103 Inventory impairment 16,753 - Research expenses 12,006 36,982 Stock-based compensation 5,688 65,428 268,868 664,611 Net loss $ (154,232 ) $ (606,048 ) Net loss per share - basic and diluted $ 0.00 $ (0.01 )



About Raise Production Inc.

The Company is an innovative oilfield service company that focuses its efforts on the production service sector, utilizing its proprietary products to enhance and increase ultimate production in both conventional and unconventional oil and gas wells.

For further information please contact:

Tom Kehoe, Investor Relations

E-mail: tkehoe@raiseproduction.com

Eric Laing, President and Chief Executive Officer

E-mail: elaing@raiseproduction.com

Susan Scullion, Chief Financial Officer

E-mail: sscullion@raiseproduction.com

Raise Production Inc.

6708 - 30th Street S.E.

Calgary, Alberta T2C 1N9

Tel: (403) 699-7675

Web site at: www.raiseproduction.com

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 news release.

Certain information included in this press release constitutes forward-looking statements under applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements or information typically contain or can be identified by statements that include words such as "anticipate", "assume", "based", "believe", "can", "continue", "depend", "estimate", "expect", "forecast", "if", "intend", "may", "plan", "project", "propose", "result", "upon", "will", "within" or similar words suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook. Forward-looking statements or information in this document include but are not limited to: the Company's business strategy, short and long term objectives, strength and focus; strategic alternatives, including with respect to the HARTTM technology; the use of the company's patented products to enhance and increase production in conventional and unconventional horizontal oil and natural gas wells; the license agreement with Q2 ALS and the impact thereof, including the marketing, sale, distribution, production, manufacturing, assembly, installation, servicing and inventory management of HARPTM and REALTM systems; royalty income resulting from the license agreement with Q2 ALS; sales and marketing activities, including the expansion of such activities to target locations in the USA and Canada; increased visibility in the market; estimates and source of funds of future product development and capital and operating expenditures; estimates in respect of potential maintenance warranty claims related to the commercialization of HARP; capital raising; the availability of credit; the Company's credit risk; continued usage of service providers and contractors, including Q2 ALS; estimates regarding current cash resources and cash flow, project revenue, and its ability to meet strategic objectives into 2021; anticipated sales; profitability expectations; commercialization plans and the timing thereof; the results and timing of product testing; operating and other costs and the effects thereof; the effect of oil and natural gas market conditions on the Company; financial results and the impacts of International Financial Reporting Standards on these statements.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any of the included forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable Canadian securities law. Forward-looking statements are based upon the current opinions, estimates, projections, assumptions and expectations of management of the Company as at the effective date of such statements and, in some cases, information supplied by third parties. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions and that information received from third parties is reliable, it can give no assurance that those expectations will prove to have been correct. By its nature, forward-looking information involves numerous assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statement will not occur. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to: deployment and commercialization of the Company's products, competition in the market, regulatory changes, reliance on third party distributors including Q2 ALS, the risk that the low commodity price environment will be sustained for an indefinite period, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting effects on economic conditions, restrictions imposed by public health authorities or governments, fiscal and monetary responses by governments and financial institutions and disruptions to global supply chains and other general industry, economic, market and business conditions, delays or changes in plans with respect to developing, manufacturing, marketing and distributing and installing the Company's products. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of risks, uncertainties and assumptions are not exhaustive. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance upon the forward-looking statements contained in this news release and such forward-looking statements should not be interpreted or regarded as guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For more information on the Company, investors should review the Company's continuous disclosure filings that are available at www.sedar.com.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85572
SpotOn, a San Francisco, CA-based software and payments company with comprehensive solutions for restaurants and retail businesses, raised $125m in Series D funding, increasing its valuation to $1.875 billion.

The round was led by Andreessen Horowitz with participation from current investors, including DST Global, 01 Advisors, Dragoneer Investment Group, and Franklin Templeton, as well as new investor Mubadala Investment Company.

The company intends to use the capital to further accelerate product development and expand its market presence.

Led by Zach Hyman, Co-CEO and Co-Founder, SpotOn provides SMBs with a cloud-based technology platform to run and grow. A leader in fully-integrated restaurant management systems and small business technology, the company offers solutions which include marketing, website development, reservations, online ordering, digital loyalty, review management, and both retail and restaurant point-of-sale (POS) solutions. SpotOn has 1,200 employees and maintains offices around the world, including San Francisco, Chicago, Mexico City, Detroit, Denver and Krakow.

Nearly 8,000 businesses have already used the platform.

FinSMEs

26/05/2021
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Mei Ting has received a grant of 35,000 to investigate the impact of various aerosols on the climate of exoplanets.

University of Exeter student awarded grant to study exoplanet climates

University of Exeter astrophysics student Mei Ting Mak has been awarded one of this years prestigious grants from the Bell Burnell Graduate Scholarship Fund.

PhD student Mei Ting has received a grant of 35,000 to investigate the impact of various aerosols on the climate of exoplanets.

Exoplanets are now known to be ubiquitous. Amongst the thousands already detected, many candidates with potentially Earth-like or habitable conditions have been identified.

However, planetary climates can be drastically altered by the presence of non-gas phase species or aerosols in the atmosphere, such as condensate clouds, photochemically produced hazes or mineral dust.  which can play major role in controlling the planetary climate.

For the project, Mei Ting will build on modelling already carried out by the Exeter Exoplanet Theory Group using the Met Offices Unified Model (UM), to perform a detailed investigation of the impact of various aerosols on the climate, and simulated spectra of terrestrial exoplanet targets.

Mei Ting said: Ive always liked to imagine what the weather is like on other planets and modelling their climate makes me feel like I am staring straight into their atmosphere. Learning that aerosols play such an important role in climate modelling, I would like to study them in detail and hopefully provide a more quantitative model to interpret the existing and future data.

The innovative Bell Burnell Graduate Scholarship Fund was set up by Professor Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell and the Institute of Physics (IOP), the UK and Irelands professional body for physicists.

Dame Jocelyn, a former president of the IOP, was awarded the 2019 Special Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics for her role in the discovery of pulsars, and for her continued scientific leadership and engagement with the scientific and wider communities.

The Bell Burnell Graduate Scholarship Fund that resulted is an innovative doctoral scholarships fund that aims to encourage diversity in physics by assisting students from groups under-represented in the physics research community to undertake physics PhD programmes.

Students encouraged to apply include women, people with refugee status, and ethnic minority, disabled, financially disadvantaged and other students who would otherwise struggle to complete a course of postgraduate study due to their circumstances.

Rachel Youngman, Deputy Chief Executive of the Institute of Physics, said: To be able to hear what it means to the lives and futures of those who have and are now receiving scholarships is heartening for all of us who are committed to improving diversity in physics.

We know that diversity means better research, and together with our continued commitment to support the physics community in being an inclusive environment within which everyone can thrive, we will see significant changes. Dame Jocelyns generosity has made this possible and we remain incredibly proud that we are able to run this scheme and be part of seeing greater diversity of those able to go on to study for their PhDs.
iQOO introduced its mid-range Z3 5G smartphone in China back in March. Now a new report says that the phone will be launched in India in third week of June, within June 15th priced around Rs. 25,000. According to earlier rumours, the phone will be exclusively launched on Amazon.in, after the iQOO 7 series. Even the company has started posting teaser.

Something POWERFUL is coming.

Can you guess?

Tell us in comments. Hint: Increase your phones brightness for a glimpse!#iQOO #ComingSoon #StayTuned pic.twitter.com/uA8miG0PcJ  iQOO India (@IqooInd) May 27, 2021

Even though we have started seeing a lot of phones with mid-range MediaTek Dimensity 5G SoC, Snapdragon-powered mid-range 5G smartphones are less. The iQOO Z3 will be the first phone to be powered by Snapdragon 768G SoC in India.

It is not clear if the company plans to launch all the versions of the phone in India that includes 6GB + 128GB, 8GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256GB. It starts at 1699 yuan (US$ 265 / Rs. 19,350 approx.) in China.

iQOO Z3 5G specifications

6.58-inch (2408  1080 pixels) Full HD+ LCD 20:9 aspect ratio screen with HDR10+, 96% NTSC Colour Gamut, 120Hz refresh rate

Octa Core (1 x 2.8GHz + 1 x 2.2GHz + 6 x 1.8GHz Kryo 475 CPUs) Snapdragon 768G 7nm EUV Mobile Platform with Adreno 620 GPU

6GB / 8GB LPDDR4x RAM with 128GB (UFS 2.2) storage / 8GB LPDDR4x RAM with 256GB (UFS 2.2) storage

Android 11 with iQOO UI 1.0

Dual SIM (nano + nano)

64MP primary camera with LED flash, Samsung ISOCELL GW3 sensor, f/1.79 aperture, EIS, 8MP ultra-wide camera with f/2.2 aperture, and 2MP macro camera with f/2.4 aperture

16MP front-facing camera with f/2.0 aperture

Side-mounted fingerprint sensor

3.5mm audio jack

Dimensions:163.9575.308.50mm; Weight:185.5g

5G SA/NSA, Dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 ac (2.4GHz + 5GHz), Bluetooth 5.1, GPS/GLONASS, USB Type-C

4400mAh (Typical) battery with 55W fast charging

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MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) -- Lumber prices continue to soar and supply shortages have resulted in an unprecedented price surge for not just homebuyers -- but builders too. So much so -- the Home Builders Association of Alabama is stepping in and making some noise to get policymakers to examine the lumber supply chain.

To get the attention of the people at the top, they've met with all members of Alabama's Congressional delegation during the last week. They say everyone understands the cost of doing business during the pandemic is up -- but the current prices are unsustainable.

"We've got price increases, supply chain issues all across the board," explained Russell Davis, Home Builders Association of Alabama Executive Vice President.

First the pandemic -- then the shut down of lumber mills across the country as remodeling and home building did not slow down. The imbalance -- triggering not only a supply shortage but prices to dramatically begin to surge last summer.

Davis says the inflated prices -- specifically lumber and particleboard -- continue to skyrocket.

"I talked with the Alabama Home Builders Association this morning -- particleboard, which is one of the main ingredients of building a house or construction is up 700% this year. What's happening -- people are saying I'm not building. I'm not building because prices are too high," said Sen. Tommy Tuberville, (R) Alabama.

To put that into perspective -- Davis compares prices to build the same home in January 2020 -- that took 270 particleboards to construct.

"The price on that in January 2020 was $2,133. This past Monday -- those same 270 boards went from $2,000 to $16,000... That's mind-boggling and that's not acceptable," said Davis.

Talk about sticker shock.

"So the Biden administration is getting ready to get what they asked for... And we are telling them right now - you better make some decisions and it's not throwing money at the problem," said Sen. Tuberville.

While he's got the attention of Alabama's Congressional delegation -- Davis hopes prices will come down -- but says builders are also pushing forward.

"We are not just going to sit back and let it happen. We are going to try and get this under control," said Davis. "And builders are resourceful... And they adapt. And we are trying to do just that now to see how we can build a fine house with alternative techniques and maybe even material."

Davis says they also testified before the Commerce Secretary two weeks ago and will continue to bring attention to the issue.
(Meredith)  Kevin Clark, who played the drummer named Freddy Jones in the hit 2003 movie School of Rock, was hit and killed by a car while he was riding his bike in Chicago, according to TMZ.

Clark was riding his bicycle on the northwest side of Chicago early Wednesday morning when he was struck by a car, police said. He was taken to the hospital but pronounced dead at 2:04 a.m. local time.

Clark was 32 years old.

The driver of the car was a 20-year-old woman, who was not arrested but has been issued citations.

Clark was a professional drummer. School of Rock was his only movie credit, and he once told TMZ he landed the role because he could actually play the drums.

Jack Black, the star of "School of Rock," paid tribute to Clark in an Instagram post Wednesday afternoon.

"Devastating news. Kevin is gone. Way too soon. Beautiful soul. So many great memories. Heartbroken. Sending love to his family and the whole School of Rock community," Black wrote.
Lubbock police to get new headquarters after decades in old building
Mongolia receives China-donated supplies to fight COVID-19

Xinhua) 11:28, May 27, 2021

ULAN BATOR, May 26 (Xinhua) -- Mongolia on Wednesday received supplies donated by the Chinese government to fight the COVID-19 pandemic at an online handover ceremony.

Officials from the two sides attended the online handover ceremony.

The mutual support and assistance of the two peoples in their joint fight against COVID-19 is a reflection of China-Mongolia friendly relations, said Mongolian Health Minister Sereejav Enkhbold, who attended the ceremony.

The Chinese government's assistance to Mongolia, including vaccines, has played an important role in Mongolia's fight against COVID-19, he noted.

Chinese Ambassador to Mongolia Chai Wenrui said that the two peoples' joint fight against the virus serves as a model for international anti-epidemic cooperation.

China will continue to uphold the concept of building a community with a shared future for humanity and strengthen anti-epidemic cooperation with countries including Mongolia, the ambassador added.

As of Wednesday, Mongolia has recorded a total of 54,414 COVID-19 cases, with 270 deaths. Most of the confirmed cases were locally transmitted.

Mongolia launched a national vaccination campaign in late February, aiming to cover at least 60 percent of its 3.3-million population.

So far, more than 1,841,100 Mongolians have received their first vaccine dose, and over 888,800 have been fully vaccinated.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
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Acai in Legend, Nature, Food and Perfumery

Raw Materials

The Brazilian flora is extremely rich, with such diversity that millions of botanical specimens have not yet been cataloged, not due to lack of commitment or scientific resources, but due to the difficulty of accessing and mapping the tropical immensity of the Amazon rainforest all the way to its deepest corners.

I wonder how many fruits, how many roots, woods, and flowers are yet to be discovered, their pharmacological properties, aromas, and flavors still a mystery.

The impulse to dive into a microscopic part of some of our fruits and describe their history, flavor, aroma, and use in perfumery led me to create this series of articles addressing some fruits common to the tropical and subtropical biomes of Brazil.

Many readers probably have heard of and tried out the fruit of the Acai palm. Acai is a palm tree with the scientific name Euterpe oleracea. Its fruit consists of small spherical berries of a dark purple tone that's almost black. It sprouts endemically in the Amazon region, and besides Brazil, we can also find the trees in Venezuela, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, and the dual-island nation Trinidad and Tobago.

The origin of acai is commonly associated with an indigenous legend that talks about an ancient indigenous tribe that came into a situation of food scarcity due to a population boom. To prevent the people of this tribe from starving, the chieftain (a figure of tribal leadership in Brazilian indigenous culture) named Itaki decreed a measure that he thought was the solution for the population growth in his tribe.

Itaki would sacrifice any child born after the date of his decree, with the intention of ending the famine his tribe was stricken with. Many children were sacrificed until Itaki's daughter Iaca gave birth to a girl. Having no other option than to enforce the law, Itaki had no mercy and sacrificed his granddaughter.

Iaca, his daughter, cried for days and nights, asking the god of the sky Tupa to end the famine so that Itaki would not sacrifice any more children. One night, Iaca fell asleep while crying and saw a vision of her daughter in front of a leafy palm tree calling her over. Iaca tried to reach her, but the girl disappeared, and Iaca, inconsolable, cried herself to death at the foot of that palm tree. The next morning, Itaki finds his daughter dead with her eyes open and a happy face; her eyes were directed to the top of the leafy palm tree, and from there, dark and shiny fruits had sprouted.

Itaki ordered all the fruits to be harvested and pressed, pouring a thick reddish-purple juice from them that fed the entire tribe and ended the hunger and the sacrifice of children. Itaki named the palm Acai, using the name of his daughter Iaca backward, meaning "fruit that cries."

To this day, acai is a fundamental food throughout Brazil, especially in the north of the country, where it is consumed in savory preparations, with manioc (cassava) flour, to accompany proteins such as fish and poultry, or with tapioca flour as a porridge. In the south, southeast, and midwest regions, acai is preferred to be eaten in sweet dishes, like ice cream and juices. Acai has a dense texture, slightly granular, and an earthy fruity flavor, which explodes in an unmistakable flavor on our palate, be it in a sweet or salty dish.

It's considered a functional food due to its large amount of good fats that help decrease bad cholesterol in our blood, in addition to being a significant energy source. Its free radicals are said to prevent infarction, control obesity, and keep premature aging at bay.

When it comes to the world of cosmetics, acai oil is not only used in the perfumery industry but also in hair products, facial creams, and lipsticks, many of them praising the fruit's beneficial properties due to its high amount of free radicals and resveratrol.

With its growing popularity, acai has become of great importance in Brazilian culture as well as in our economy. Its use is not restricted to food and pharmacology, as acai berries are also extracted for their fragrant oil. At first, this oil does not have a pleasant smell; it is very dense and resembles the smell of a dirty stable, but through filtering and aging, the acai oil takes on more delicate and comfortable fragrant nuances, which vary from juicy-fruity (reminiscent of ripe purple grapes) to intensely sweet, with some earthy and woody touches. It's almost as if besides the fruit, acai's olfactory blend also contains wood, roots, and soil.

In perfumery, it is appreciated precisely for this exotic and complex blend, which gives fragrances with acai notes a fruity, peculiar depth. With only a single ingredient, we get juicy, woody, and earthy facets, in a delicate and comfortable harmony.

In Zoologist Sloth, the note of acai can be perceived as that sweet and dense fruity aspect of the berries, here complemented with an earthy touch. This note perfectly completes the composition because acai is one of the favorite foods of the sloth, so acai does not play only with the olfactory abstraction but also with the animal's own food.

In Maitresse Eau Provocateur, acai takes on a woodier guise, less fruity, combining harmoniously with this fragrance's floral evolution and becoming the ideal transition to the ambery musky base.

In Le Gant de Byredo, acai is used as the base note of the composition because the aspect of the note explored in this perfume is not its fruity side but its earthy-woody element. Used alone as a base note, the effect is quite delicate, however, combined with leather, musk, and amber, the acai in Le Gant takes on the role of deep, dark wood.

Certainly, there are infinite possibilities of combinations for the acai note in fragrances; it can highlight several facets of the note itself or several facets of the fragrance in question.
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June 5, 2021, will mark 40 years since Los Angeles physician Dr. Michael Gottlieb and colleagues published the first medical account of what would eventually become known as AIDS. It was a short summary in the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions printed weekly newsletter of five cases of pneumonia in gay men, all of whom eventually died. The global story that has unfolded since is an unspeakable tragedy. HIV/AIDS has claimed more than 32.7 million lives, dwarfing the toll of the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Yet it is also a story of hope and heroes, of activism and ingenuity that spurred one of the most extraordinary scientific achievements of the 20th century. The development of antiviral drug combinations turned what had been a death sentence into a manageable chronic disease for millions and launched efforts to make these expensive medications available at low cost to the developing world. Today more than 26 million people are accessing antiretroviral therapy. AIDS-related deaths have fallen 60% since their peak in 2004. Still, this triumph is far from complete. Each year, more than 1.7 million people around the globe are infected. Stigma, racism, underfunding and health care inequalities have left HIV/AIDS increasingly rooted in disadvantaged and marginalized communities. Effective treatments in the U.S. can cost $39,000 a year. There is still no vaccine. There are treatments, but there is no cure. Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, with a scientific staff grounded in virology and immunology, has been a global leader in the scientific efforts to stop this pandemic. Over the years, the Hutch has told scores of stories about the people and the science involved in this work  a vast collaboration of researchers, activists, government policymakers and industry pursuing a common goal. To mark 40 years since the emergence of this disease, we offer here a selection of 40 stories of hope and heroes, written by Fred Hutch writers about the work that has been done and the unfinished business ahead. Also, you can watch a video of the AIDS@40: Remembering & Renewal virtual event, hosted by Fred Hutch President & Director Dr. Tom Lynch.

Timothy Ray Brown  known as the Berlin patient  was the first person to be cured of HIV as a result of a blood stem cell transplant to treat his leukemia. Photo by Robert Hood / Fred Hutch News Service

The people

Dr. Larry Corey, former president and director of Fred Hutch, is an acclaimed virologist and principal investigator of the Hutch-based HIV Vaccine Trials Network, or HVTN. After helping pave the way to HIV treatments in the darkest early days of AIDS, Corey wants a vaccine  and a cure. We talked to him about his decades in HIV/AIDS research. A virus researchers 35 years in the AIDS trenches (June 2016)

Dr. Julie McElrath saw her first patient with AIDS in the early 1980s, around the time HIV was identified. Today, she is senior vice president and director of the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division at Fred Hutch, holder of the Joel D. Meyers Endowed Chair and director of HVTNs laboratory division. She plays a key role in the largest international program for testing HIV and COVID-19 vaccines. Advancing toward an HIV vaccine (2020)

Dr. Jim Kublin, the HVTNs executive director, brings epic life lessons to the quest to develop an HIV vaccine. Kublin talked with us about his years of working on malaria and HIV, and dogsledding, and what hes learned along the way Renaissance man (May 2014)

Timothy Ray Brown  known as the Berlin patient  was the first person to be cured of HIV as a result of a blood stem cell transplant to treat his leukemia. He found purpose and community in being involved in HIV cure research, both as a participant and as an advocate. Brown died of his leukemia in 2020.



Timothy Ray Brown: The accidental AIDS icon (Feb. 2015)

Bill Hall was diagnosed with HIV in June 1986 and assumed he had been sentenced to death. Twenty years later, still very much alive, he received another frightening diagnosis, non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The experience is increasingly common among people living with HIV. First HIV, then cancer (Oct. 2015)

Dr. Julie Overbaugh, who holds the Endowed Chair for Graduate Education at the Hutch, for much of her research career has focused on people particularly vulnerable to HIV and its effects: commercial sex workers and HIV-positive mothers and their infants in Kenya. Basic research to prevent HIV (Feb. 2017)

Wakefield, as he is known to all his former colleagues at Fred Hutch, began his career as 8-year-old member of the Rev. Jesse Jacksons Operation Breadbasket. He became a prominent AIDS activist and eventually retired last year from HVTN after 20 years of bridge-building between vaccine researchers and underserved communities in Seattle and around the globe. The pride of Fred Hutch: (June 2018)

Dr. Glenda Gray, president and CEO of the South African Medical Research Council, is co-principal investigator of the HVTN and directs its programs in Africa. Her fearless drive to stop HIV was forged in the fight against apartheid. She helped organize strikes, treated people injured in anti-government protests and documented brutalities against those detained in jail. Glenda Gray: The HIV warrior (Nov. 2014)

Sister Glo joined the Seattle branch of the San Francisco-based Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence nearly two decades ago. The Sisters may be the oldest organization in the country dedicated to grassroots HIV prevention efforts, without losing, in Sister Glos words, our activist, anarchist heart. HIV educator battles stigma, spreads joy via 'street-level Sister work (April 2016)

Dr. Gregory Wilson is co-principal investigator for the Vanderbilt HIV Vaccine Trials Program in Nashville, Tennessee, a unit of the Fred Hutch-based HVTN. The pediatrician shares his story of his early experiences in treating children with HIV at a time when todays effective antivirals were not yet available. An AIDS researcher's first encounter with HIV as a young pediatrician (Dec. 2017)

Gail Broder said she got into HIV work because she got tired of burying her friends. Trained as a music therapist helping patients with Alzheimers disease, she began to see parallels among patients with AIDS-related dementias. She shifted her focus and training to HIV prevention work, and in 2003 she joined HVTN, where she is now senior community engagement project manager. A former music therapist now orchestrates community engagement in HIV vaccine research (April 2018)

Tranisha Arzah learned at the age of 7 that her mother and brother had died of complications of AIDS. Thats also when she found out that she, like her brother Tradell, had been born with HIV. As a young woman, she found her voice as an advocate for woman with HIV and a Community Advisory Board member for defeatHIV, a collaboration of scientists, clinicians and community dedicated to finding an HIV cure. A voice for HIV cure (Nov. 2017)

Dr. Gero Hutter was the Berlin oncologist who proved that curing HIV was possible when he came up with the radical idea that, in treating Timothy Ray Browns leukemia with a stem cell transplant, he might use cells from a donor whose genes conferred rare natural resistance to HIV. It worked. Doctor who cured Berlin patient of HIV: We knew we were doing something very special (Feb. 2015)

Getty Images illustration

The science

When COVID-19 began spreading in the Seattle area in February 2020, there was immediate concern that it could be particularly dangerous for people living with HIV, a virus that can damage the immune system. Research so far suggests it is not the case among those who control HIV with antiretroviral drugs. When COVID-19 crosses paths with HIV (May 2020)

Hutch researcher Dr. Justin Taylor and colleagues are pioneering an entirely new field of microbiology: B-cell engineering. The idea is to genetically modify antibody-producing B cells to produce immune proteins customized to stop hard-to-treat viral infections. Engineering vaccine-like protection without a vaccine (May 2019)

A Hutch-led study has shown that patients with HIV and one of a variety of potentially deadly cancers could be safely treated with the immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab. The study findings strengthen the case for opening the door to cancer clinical trials for people with HIV, where exclusion in cancer treatment trials has been a longstanding problem. Breaking down HIV exclusions in cancer clinical trials (June 2019)

At a scientific meeting for researchers in Seattle, top scientists including Dr. Carl Dieffenbach, who oversees global HIV/AIDS research at the National Institutes of Health, discussed an ambitious plan to bring new HIV infection in the U.S. to zero by 2030 through expanded outreach, testing and treatment, and use of pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP drugs. Scientists strategize to stop HIV infections, work toward cures (March 2019)



Hutch researchers in collaboration with doctors in Africa have identified from vaginal swab samples seven bacterial species whose presence in high concentrations may significantly increase the risk of HIV infection in women. These clues from the microbiome are particularly important in sub-Saharan Africa, where women account for 56% of new HIV infections. Microbiome research refines HIV risk for women (Jan. 2018)

Fred Hutch virologist Dr. Julie Overbaugh and her collaborators in Kenya and the U.S. celebrated the 25th anniversary of a collaboration with a unique group of HIV research participants  high-risk women in Mombasa, Kenya  who helped change the landscape of HIV transmission research. 25 powerful years of HIV research (Feb. 2018)

We now know that the gut microbiome can profoundly affect our immune response. Hutch vaccine researcher Dr. Jim Kublin and his team are studying how certain bacteria in the gut might have dampened the effectiveness of vaccines.



Enlisting the microbiome in the quest for an AIDS vaccine (Nov. 2017)

The AIDS Vaccine Early-Stage Investigator Programme was established by the Hutch-based HVTN in South Africa to help train a new generation of homegrown HIV physician-scientists in that nation, which has far fewer physicians overall and a far greater number of people with HIV than the U.S.



Training tomorrow's HIV researchers (June 2017)

Using a laboratory technique known as deep mutational scanning, Fred Hutch evolutionary biologist Dr. Jesse Bloom and his team created a library of possible mutant HIV surface proteins to simulate how they might respond to different antibodies. New library of HIV mutants could inform vaccine design (June 2017)

Hutch researcher Dr. Jennifer Adairs Gene Therapy in a Box aims to bring down the cost of eventually using gene therapy to treat diseases like HIV by automating multiple steps in the process of modifying a persons own immune cells with genes that confer resistance to HIV. Gene therapy goes global: Portable device could make future cancer, HIV cures affordable (Oct. 2016)

Women scientists and activists are playing critical roles in the effort to stop the HIV/AIDS pandemic. In 2015, Fred Hutch hosted a seminar featuring prominent women in the field at home and abroad. Women in the front lines of the HIV/AIDS Pandemic (March 2015)

Dr. Michael Emerman, a Fred Hutch virologist who studies the evolution of viruses, traces the emergence of SIVcp, a retrovirus in chimpanzees thought to have jumped to humans, leading to HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.



HIVs unusual family tree (Sept. 2015)



In a significant breakthrough in HIV prevention, the CDC in 2015 recommended that Americans at high risk of contracting HIV take a daily pill that was shown to prevent infection. Since that endorsement of the pill, Truvada, new and more lasting forms of pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP, have been developed. CDC recommends daily pill for those at high risk of HIV (May 2014)

Dr. Larry Corey, former president and director of Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, was protocol chair of the Antibody Mediated Prevention trials and reported first results prior to the online HIV Research for Prevention scientific conference, which opened on Jan. 27. Photo by Robert Hood / Fred Hutch News Service

Vaccine and antibody research

Results of the Antibody Mediated Prevention, or AMP trials, released in January, were a proof of principle that infusions of a broadly neutralizing antibody could prevent infection in people at risk for HIV  if those antibodies matched certain viral strains at defined levels of potency. Antibody trial results offer proof of concept (Jan. 2021)

Now that daily PrEP pills and long-term injections have been shown to protect people from infection with HIV, will volunteers still sign up for a vaccine trial where they might receive a placebo? Vaccine researchers say that the need for a vaccine is as great as ever, and they can still find willing participants.



HIV vaccine trials are complicated by the availability of PrEP (Nov. 2020)

Just as the COVID-19 pandemic began to spread, hopes for good news on HIV vaccines were dashed by the surprising failure of HVTNs Uhambo trial, a large multinational study of a vaccine meant to improve upon the promising results of a 2009 vaccine trial in Thailand, which reduced infections by 32%. Promising HIV vaccine fails to show efficacy (Feb. 2020)

A new large HIV vaccine trial, Mosaico  like its companion study, Imbokodo  is testing a new vaccine inspired by the concept of a mosaic. It is built using parts, like mosaic tiles, from many different HIV strains found around the world. The idea is to overcome HIVs ability to rapidly escape, through mutation, the protection offered by a vaccine containing a single strain. New HIV vaccine trial to launch in the U.S., Latin America and Europe (July 2019)

Hutch researchers are exploring a new way of training the immune system to build broadly neutralizing antibodies against HIV through a series of steps that generate precursors of these potent immune proteins  a kind of directed evolution of antibodies. Baiting for B cells: clever new way to make an AIDS vaccine (Oct. 2019)

Blood samples from a study of mother-to-child transmission of HIV conducted in Kenya decades are yielding clues that babies develop neutralizing antibodies to HIV. Dr. Julie Overbaugh and her team are studying whether these antibodies in children might inform development of a vaccine. How babies may help researchers build a better HIV vaccine (April 2015)

Dr. Leo Stamatatos and colleagues at Fred Hutch are probing the bodys ability to generate broadly neutralizing antibodies, which can overcome shape-shifting HIVs ability to elude the kind of antibodies that vaccine elicit to stop other viral diseases like polio and measles. Closing in on the holy grail of HIV vaccine (Dec. 2014)

Dr. Hans-Peter Kiem, director of Cell & Gene Therapy at Fred Hutch, discusses gene therapy for HIV at TEDx Seattle last November. Video courtesy of TEDx Seattle

Cure research

Dr. Hans-Peter Kiem, who directs the Cell & Gene Therapy Program at Fred Hutch and holds the Stephanus Family Endowed Chair for Cell and Gene Therapy, is an advocate for using gene-therapy in a syringe to cure HIV. In a TEDxSeattle talk, he explains why the idea is not pie in the sky.



Dr. Hans-Peter Kiem speaks about HIV and making gene therapy more accessible(Jan. 2020)

Hopes for an HIV cure were boosted by the news that a second patient, a man in London later identified as Adam Castillejo, had been cured of HIV  like Timothy Ray Brown  through a stem cell transplant of cells containing HIV resistance genes. London transplant doctors report a second patient likely cured of HIV (March 2019)

Proliferation or replication? A Hutch study suggests HIV persists despite antiviral therapy through the proliferation, or an increase in the number of infected cells, rather than by replication of viruses hiding in caches throughout the body. It means HIV might be best cleared by therapies that reduce cell proliferation, a standard strategy for blocking cancers. Persistent HIV infection works a lot like cancer, study shows (Nov. 2018)

Dr. Carl June was an oncology fellow trained at Fred Hutch in bone marrow transplantation before he became a leading developer of CAR T-cell therapies for cancer at the University of Pennsylvania. He called his Seattle years a transformative time in his career, and while researching HIV at a Navy-funded lab he cemented his T-cell expertise. In a career spanning the worlds of HIV and cancer research, he sits on the board of defeatHIV and was keynote speaker at a Hutchs HIV cure conference. Dr. Carl June weaves together HIV and cancer research to advance cures for both (Aug. 2017)

Advisers to defeatHIV Community Advisory Boards held 10 focus groups around the country to ask how people with HIV felt about participating in HIV cure research. Then they shared their findings with the participants. Why volunteer for an HIV cure study? (June 2017)

Super survivors: Fewer than 5% of people living with HIV are long-term nonprogressors, who maintain low viral loads and stable levels of immune cells without medication. A smaller number of them are elite controllers, who have undetectable viral loads and normal immune cell counts. In this story we profile five of these super survivors, who are the focus of intense interest by researchers at Fred Hutch and throughout the country.



Super survivors: What those with HIV who dont get sick can teach us (Dec. 2015)

Dr. Francoise Barre-Sinoussi shared a Nobel Prize in medicine for the 1983 discovery of HIV, the retrovirus that causes AIDS. At Fred Hutch in 2014, she addressed the Conference on Cell & Gene Therapy for HIV Cure, making the case that scientists must still work toward a cure. Having discovered HIV, Dr. Francoise Barre-Sinoussi wants a cure (Aug. 2014)
Dr. Consuelo Rodriguez de Negrete, top, and Dr. Yaw Nyame, bottom, were both recognized for their trailblazing health equity work at the 2021 Pathways to Equity Symposium, held Friday at Fred Hutch.

Dr. Consuelo Rodriguez de Negrete, left, and Dr. Yaw Nyame, right, were both recognized for their trailblazing health equity work at the 2021 Pathways to Equity Symposium, held Friday at Fred Hutch.

The yearly symposium was presented virtually on Friday by the Consortiums Office of Community Outreach and Engagement , housed at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. It brought together investigators, advocates, health care providers and more to hash out the harsh truths, share progress and ideas and hail the dedicated heroes in the trenches, who this year helped communities across the Puget Sound and beyond navigate cancer and an equally cruel pandemic.

The first step is acknowledging the issue, which is an ugly one. Not everybody has equal access to, or is able to achieve equal benefit from, current disease prevention and treatment, particularly when it comes to cancer. As a result, many people suffer and die needlessly, particularly patients of color and other underserved groups.

Racial disparities in health care exist in the U.S. and we must thus formulate and understand root causes, said keynote speaker Dr. Edith Mitchell, an oncologist and clinical professor of medicine and medical oncology at Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia.

The path to health equity is an arduous one, but the public health scientists, community health educators and cancer experts at Fred Hutch/University of Washington Cancer Consortium mapped out their route at the annual Pathways to Equity Symposium.

What causes health disparities?

Mitchell spoke on the root causes of health disparities, which are multifactorial.

They stem from the longstanding food and medical deserts created by neighborhood racial redlining which squelched Black home and/or business ownership; the shortened consultation times clinicians spend with Black patients; the incomprehensible cancer prevention pamphlets routinely handed to non-English speakers and the dearth of cancer doctors of color. And they can extend to the way a persons genes are expressed, or turned on or off, which can be impacted by poverty, social injustice, racism and other adverse circumstances, in a health disparity double-whammy.

All of these factors and more, she said, pave the way to higher cancer mortality rates within BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) and other marginalized communities. All of them eat away at health equity, and all need to be addressed.

How can we do that?

By engaging with the community, Mitchell said. By knowing what diseases occur in our communities, not just cancer but also comorbid conditions. By modifying clinical trials to allow for wider participation. By making sure we have community navigators to help us understand and reach the community.

The retired U.S. Air Force brigadier general also made a strong call for a diverse workforce to better serve a diverse population.

The percentage of Latino or Hispanic or African American physicians has not changed significantly over the last few years, she said. We must direct attention to this area, to enhance and increase workforce diversity so we have more people who understand disparate communities and who dedicate their lifetime clinician work in those communities.

Expansion on the horizon?

OCOE Director Dr. Jay Mendoza shared data on cancer cases in the catchment area, the 13 counties around Puget Sound that the Hutch and its consortium partners currently serve. Population-wise, its around 5 million people, about a third of whom identify as a racial/ethnic minority. Within the last year, there were over 31,000 new cases of cancer reported in the catchment area, and OCOEs research showed Black patients had the highest rate overall for cancer mortality. They also had the highest prostate cancer rates.

Most people died of cancers in these five sites: lung, breast, prostate, hematologic (blood) and colorectal. But liver cancer was one of the top-five cancer mortality sites among Asian and Pacific Islanders while Hispanic people had liver and pancreas cancers among their top five. Also, mortality rates for breast and hematologic cancers were higher in American Indian and Alaska Native patients in the Hutchs catchment area compared to national rates.

Four counties in the catchment area  Grays Harbor, Thurston, Pierce and Skagit  had high cancer mortality rates, significantly higher than King County, home to Seattle, Mendoza said.

The OCOE director went on to highlight some of the OCOEs prevention efforts including an ambitious push toward higher HPV vaccination rate. Our goal is an 80% completion rate, he said. Statewide, we are only at 29%, and that was prior to the pandemic. County by county, it varies from as low as 9% all the way up to 43%.

Mendoza also announced OCOEs plans to expand the Consortiums catchment area to the entire state.

Were the only NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center in Washington or in the WWAMI (Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, Idaho) region, he said, referring to the Consortiums elite status conferred by the National Cancer Institute. Expanding statewide, he said, would mean folding in over 35,000 Indigenous people and over 430,000 Hispanic people into the catchment area.

Its a tremendous opportunity, he said, sharing next steps which include a population health assessment and statewide survey on cancer control. And really, when have the aspirations of the Consortium and its partner institutions  Fred Hutch, the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Seattle Childrens and UW  when have our aspirations ever been limited to 13 counties? We have 13 very important counties in Washington but it leaves the rest of the state out.




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Get ready for a musical summerPokemon GO Fest 2021 is coming soon!





[This unedited press release is made available courtesy of Gamasutra and its partnership with notable game PR-related resource Games Press.]

With this year being both the twenty-fifth anniversary of Pokemon and the fifth anniversary of Pokemon GO, were simply jazzed to share more details of whats in store for Pokemon GO Fest 2021, happening on July 17 and 18! Its been five whole years of Pokemon GO, and we couldnt have done it without all of you. To celebrate, ticket prices will be reduced from USD $14.99 to $5!*

Were very excited to welcome Google Play as the official event sponsor! Learn more here.

Pokemon GO Fest 2021 will take place over two days, with each day providing a unique experience. Youll be able to participate in both days of the event with one ticket.

Pokemon GO Fest 2021 Day 1: Catch!

On Saturday, July 17, 2021, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. local time, all Trainers will enjoy the following features, regardless of whether they have an event ticket.

Hourly habitats are back This year will feature four themed habitat hoursJungle, Desert Mountain, Ocean Beach, and Caverotating throughout the event. During each habitat hour, certain Pokemon will be appearing more frequently in the wild. The Jungle habitat will feature Pokemon such as Scyther, Aipom, Froakie, and more. The Desert Mountain habitat will feature Pokemon such as Skarmory, Shieldon, Hippopotas, and more. The Ocean Beach habitat will feature Pokemon such as Dratini, Swablu, Alomomola, and more. The Cave habitat will feature Pokemon such as Roggenrola, Galarian Stunfisk, Deino, and more.

Raids on Saturday will feature Pokemon such as Hitmontop, Cranidos, and Deinoplus, Galarian Ponyta and Galarian Zigzagoon wearing special costumes will be appearing in raids!

Pokemon related to musicsuch as Chimecho, Kricketot, Audino, and a special costumed Pikachuwill be appearing in the wild throughout the day.

Get ready for Pokemon GO Fest with a free event shirt avatar item.

Shiny Whismur, Chimecho, Audino, and Tympole will be making their Pokemon GO debut during the event. If youre lucky, you may encounter one!

On Saturday, July 17, 2021, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. local time, Pokemon GO Fest 2021 ticket holders will be able to enjoy the following features!

Pokemon GO Fest 2021 is a music festival, and youre the show director! Help Professor Willow and the team leaders put on an incredible concert celebration by choosing between certain Pokemon to join the festivities. Complete this Special Research for special rewards, including an encounter with a Mythical Pokemon, a shirt avatar item, and an exclusive avatar pose! After you complete the Special Research, take a snapshot for a surprise! Pikachu Rock Star or Pikachu Pop Staryour choice will determine the in-game music that will play for you during the event. The Pokemon music producer Junichi Masuda has produced brand-new tracks just for Pokemon GO Fest 2021, including a rock-and-rolling track for Pikachu Rock Star fans, a high-energy electro-pop song for Pikachu Pop Star stans, and more! Youll also get to fill out the rest of your musical group! Will you pick Galarian Ponyta or Galarian Zigzagoon? Gardevoir or Flygon? All these Pokemon will be dressed to impress in special event costumes!

The Global Challenge Arena is back this year. On Saturday, ticket holders will work together to complete a collaborative challenge each hour. If they complete the challenge in time, theyll earn a bonus for the remainder of the hour. You can check the Today View to keep track of global progress!

Youll be able to complete four Collection Challenges , each themed after a habitat hour.

During each habitat hour, certain Pokemon will be attracted to Incense. Jungle : Unown F, Unown G, Ludicolo, Chatot, Leafeon, and Serperior. Desert Mountain : Flareon, Unown F, Unown G, Tyranitar, Flygon, and Throh. Ocean Beach : Gyarados, Vaporeon, Azumarill, Unown F, Unown G, and Sawk. Cave : Umbreon, Unown F, Unown G, Gardevoir, Absol, and Galvantula.

During event hours, Pokemon appearing in the wild and attracted to Incense will have an increased chance of being Shiny! It will be easier to discover Shiny Pokemon (in the wild and those attracted by Incense) on Saturday than on Sunday.

Shiny Unown F, Shiny Throh, and Shiny Sawk will be making their Pokemon GO debut during the event!



Pokemon GO Fest 2021 Day 2: Raid!



On Sunday, July 18, 2021, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. local time, all Trainers will enjoy the following.

Sundays gameplay will be focused on raids, and some of your favorites will be returning for this epic celebration! Stay tuned for more info.

Miss any Pokemon on the first day of the event? Dont worry! All Pokemon appearing more frequently in the wild on Saturday will be appearing again on Sunday during event hours. On Sunday, July 18, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. local time, ticket holders will be able to enjoy the following. Earn an extra 10,000 XP in raid rewards when you complete a Raid Battle!

Spin Gym Photo Discs to earn up to 10 Raid Passes. These can be used for in-person raids.

Complete Timed Research to earn up to eight Remote Raid Passes. These can be used to join a raid from anywhere.

Pick up a free event bundle containing three Remote Raid Passes! This will be available in the shop on Sunday, July 18, 2021, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. local time.

All Pokemon attracted to Incense from Saturday will be attracted to Incense during event hours on Sunday.



Both days And thats all for whats exclusive to each day! All Trainers can expect both event days to feature the following. Trainer photos will be featured in the Today View Share your photos with #PokemonGOFest2021 for a chance to see them featured during the event.

All Lure Modules activated during event hours will last for three hours

Special music created by Pokemon music producer Junichi Masuda will be playing in the app throughout the event.

1/2 Hatch Distance when Eggs are placed in an Incubator during event hours.

Pokemon hatching from 7 km eggs include Igglybuff, Chingling, Audino, and more.

Event-exclusive Field Research tasks, special on-map visual effects, and more! Ticket holders can expect both days of the event to feature the following. Open Gifts or spin PokeStops to get special event stickers.

Take snapshots on both event days for a surprise!

Unown F and Unown G will be attracted to Incense throughout the event. If youre lucky, you may encounter a Shiny one!



And thats not all!

With Google Play as the official event sponsor of Pokemon GO Fest 2021 , Trainers can expect fun surprises and exclusive perks.

Google Play Points multiplier! From now until May 30, Google Play members will get 4 Google Play Points on all purchases made in Pokemon GO, including tickets. There will also be a special earn rate from July 12th to July 18th. From now until May 30, Google Play members will get 4 Google Play Points on all purchases made in Pokemon GO, including tickets. There will also be a special earn rate from July 12th to July 18th. Join now if you havent already!

Plus, Trainers using Android devices on Saturday, July 17th, will be eligible for an exclusive Sponsored Gift to help power their Pokemon GO Fest experience. Stay tuned for more details.

The print-at-home kit is returning this year for Trainers around the world!

Trainers in the United States and Canada will be able to purchase a new Pokemon GO Fest T-shirt from PokemonCenter.com ! More details to come.



Also be sure to check out the Niantic Shop to equip yourself with new limited-edition items for a day of adventure and exploration. Available for shipping to US addresses only. Weve outlined differences between the free and paid Pokemon GO Fest experience here.

How to purchase a ticket Tickets are now available in the in-app shop! Last year, Pokemon GO Fest tickets cost US$14.99, but in celebration of Pokemon GOs fifth anniversary, this years tickets are only US$4.99. In the shop, tap the Pokemon GO Fest 2021 image. Tap the Buy button. Youll then see a pop-up indicating that youve received a ticket for Pokemon GO Fest 2021. After you tap OK, you can find the ticket in your Item Bag. A few days before the event, youll receive a medal. When you open the app during event hours on Saturday or Sunday, youll receive access to the Pokemon GO Fest 2021 experience, including the Special Research story! After youve obtained the Special Research story line, you can complete it at any time. We cant wait for you all to experience the musical adventure we have in store. While weve yet to meet again in the same park and under the same sky, we hope this years experience can make playing from your favorite places feel extra special. Please be aware of your surroundings and follow guidelines from local health authorities when playing Pokemon GO. Upcoming events are subject to change. Be sure to follow us on social media, opt in to receiving push notifications, and subscribe to our emails to stay updated. For the latest on in-game events and feature updates, be sure to check this help center article. The Pokemon GO team * Tickets will be available for purchase in the in-app shop for USD $4.99 (or the equivalent pricing tier in your local currency, plus any applicable taxes and fees). Tickets cannot be purchased with PokeCoins. Tickets to this event are nonrefundable (subject to applicable law and the exceptions set forth in the Terms of Service).  Google Play Points are available only in select countries.
In all, 704 children staying at the temporary shelter have been reunified since the facility opened. That's an increase of 29 children since June 4 -- a 68% decline from the 91 minors reunited with family or sponsors during the...
The conversation started on a long Uber ride. The driver, originally from Colombia, said he knows a lot of Colombians living in the U.S. "without papers." He argued that they are good people paying taxes and should be left alone. I responded that I believe they are good people paying taxes but our immigration laws should be respected.

He then said, to my surprise, "I kind of like Donald Trump." Why, I asked. He went on heatedly about the riots that followed the killing of George Floyd. He thought Trump was more serious about restoring order.

The public really dislikes civic chaos. Democrats, you need to address this more forthrightly.

It matters not that only 6% of the racial justice rallies from May through October of last year saw violence. Nor is the intention to downplay troubling cases of police brutality. And let's not forget that the most outrageous incident of savage lawlessness, the Jan. 6 rampage on the Capitol, was staged by the Republican right wing.

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It's just that the right talks a big game on maintaining law and order while some on the left leave the impression that Democrats don't care so much. The liberal media tend to give these radical voices outsized attention, which the right-wing media happily scoops up.
I wish that it would be hyperbolic to say that American Democracy is in danger, but I don't believe it is.

The 2020 Presidential election was not stolen. There was no wide spread voter fraud. It is an accusation backed not by proof, but only by Trump's lies. His lawyers could win only one of over 60 lawsuits and it was overturned by the state supreme court. Republican officials who I'm sure wanted badly to certify the votes for Trump, refused to destroy our electoral process. Trump begged the Georgia Secretary of State to "find" just enough votes for him to win Georgia.

Trump does not care about democracy, he cares only about Trump. Now, any Republican politician who does not support Trump's lie must be purged from the party. Life long conservative Republicans are driven from office for supporting the truth and the country above their own power or jobs.

The official stance of the party is to overturn an election they do not win (over 140 congressmen voted to do so this year) Trump and Republican's willing to do anything for Trump's approval have undermined our elections and our democracy. A recent poll shows over 60% of Republicans feel Biden is illegitimate. What of 2022 or 2024? What if Trump's choice does not win? Does anyone think Trump will peacefully accept that?
Leon Reed is a retired US Senate aide (back when the Senate was a functioning legislative body) and history teacher. He is the chair of Gettysburg Democracy for America.
Reserve Soldiers with the MDOC from the 2-381st TSB, 120th Inf. Bde., Div. West, assist with lifting the roof framing on a new house construction during a Habitat for Humanity housing project in Waco May 15.
Col. Ryan M. Hanson, outgoing commander, 1st BCT Ironhorse, passes the brigade colors to Brig. Gen. Brett Sylvia, acting commanding general, 1st Cav. Div. during the assumption of command ceremony in Zagan, Poland, May 14.
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Members of the Emergency Department at Beverly and Addison Gilbert hospitals delivered a basket of treats to the Gloucester Police Department in honor of Police Week, May 9 to 15, and to thank the officers for their work with the Gloucester community.
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The drivers are settling down again after the Monaco Grand Prix, and are preparing for the race in Azerbaijan in a week's time. GPblog's F1 Social Stint finds out what the drivers and teams are doing between these Grands Prix.

Detective Vettel investigated again in Monaco

Sebastian Vettel has been known to take a look at other teams from time to time. In Monaco, this was again the case. The German was spotted checking out some cars in the Parce Ferme. Detective Seb struck again.
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West Michigan

Why construction prices are skyrocketing

Tribune photos / Matt DeYoung A construction crew works on a new house being built off 144th Avenue in Grand Haven Township. mdeyoung / Tribune photo / Matt DeYoung The unprecedented rise in building supply prices have put many construction projects on hold.

As the local housing market continues to sizzle, a ripple effect has carried over to the construction side, making it very expensive to build and improve homes in West Michigan.

The Rycenga Building Center in Grand Haven has been involved in building community infrastructure for more than 80 years, but family second-generation owner John Rycenga says the present surge is one of the more memorable ones for his business.

Weve been selling everything, he said. A lot of in-home products and construction, but most things are selling pretty well.

The COVID-19 pandemic has played a significant factor in the recent spike in home improvement projects, as the demand for housing continues to boom throughout the country. According to the National Association of Home Builders, the spike in lumber costs caused the selling price of an average new single-family home to increase by more than $24,000 in the past year.

A profusion of new homes and remodeling projects, including additions to houses, has created extraordinary demand and a drought in supply, Rycenga says.

Thats why prices have skyrocketed, he said. Our lumber products are up 280 percent and other building products have gone up anywhere from 10 to 30 percent.

For a company that has nearly 24 years in the building industry, Pushaw Builders of Grand Haven has been overwhelmed by the amount of new, larger-size projects including full main-level remodels, additions, kitchens and garages. Project manager Matt Moran says the uptick in projects has been so staggering that he hasnt felt any level of competition from other builders.

Weve always been busy in the Grand Haven area in my three years working here, but theres enough work now for twice as many of us, he said. Its overwhelming, but its also been fun and interesting at the same time.

Moran says the most noticeable issue they are dealing with right now is the unprecedented pricing of materials.

When a large-scale project that used to cost $10,000 now is closer to $45,000, it makes it really challenging, he said.

The availability of products has been the biggest behemoth to tackle. Before the pandemic, Pushaw says he could easily pluck a door off a shelf. Now, order times are 4-6 weeks out, and thats a best-case scenario. Delays in projects have occurred because of the lack of materials, he says.

Even if youre promised something, its like theres a built-in excuse for them not being able to produce it, Moran said.

Its led to a lot of days when Moran has had to pick the paper off the top of the pile and start from there. While managing subcontractors that do anything from plumbing to electrical, the questions and problems still arise from stalled jobs.

Moran says Mondays used to be their busiest day  but now, every day is like a Monday.

Were not able to visit every site that we normally would anymore, he said. I was exposed to COVID four months ago, and when I came back, just the amount of things I missed in one day was overwhelming.

Rycenga says that it doesnt take all that much to cause an imbalance in the market, which prompts prices to climb. Lumber mills have been caught off-guard by the desperate desire for home improvements, combined with the pandemic, which caused production to come to a screeching halt.

With prices continuing to climb, Moran says its been about a 50/50 split between customers declining work or proceeding through. Sometimes homeowners will take a month or two to mull over their decision, he says, but when they come back, the price has jumped even higher.

When they come back to the table, theres another $20,000 added because thats just what it costs us, Moran said.

The biggest concern has been the lack of sawmills that are producing lumber, Moran says. Because the pandemic shut down several mills, the ones that are still open have no incentive to drop their prices.

They have to be making a killing right now, Moran said. Were fearful long term that things will become desensitized and the ridiculousness will only become the norm. If youre used to it, then who cares?

The housing market has caused several other materials to jump in demand, including copper, drywall, steel and land.

Rycenga believes prices will slowly come back to somewhat normalcy, but it will never be where it was prior to the pandemic.

It was very low then and there wasnt as much demand as there is now, he said. Prices are going to be higher for a while.

Moran, on the other hand, doesnt have as much faith that things will come back anytime soon. Every two months, he receives warnings from lumber companies about potential price increases.

Im really hoping that at some point it will level off so we have some consistency, Moran said.
Grand Haven, MI (49417)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 79F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 61F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.
Forthcoming races at Paul Ricard and the Red Bull Ring look set to be attended by some Formula 1 spectators.

So far in 2021, the phenomenon of 'ghost races' has begun to diminish, with limited crowds often now permitted in the grandstands by local jurisdictions.

However, there will be no spectators at Baku next weekend.

"The 2021 race weekend has arrived too quickly for us to safely host the event with fans present," organisers confirm.

But the French GP at Paul Ricard comes after that, and according to Ouest-France the introduction of a 'health pass' means 15,000 spectators look to get the green light.

The newspaper said patrons will have to present either a negative PCR or antigen test, a 'certificate of recovery' from covid-19, or proof of vaccination.

As for the double-header at Red Bull's Austrian GP venue in Styria, Kleine Zeitung newspaper claims government-level talks are currently taking place with a decision due "on Friday".

Tickets are already on sale, but the report said it is not clear how many spectators will be allowed above the current 3000-person limit on outdoor sporting events.

(GMM)
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Interview: Huawei eyes nurturing aspiring young Ethiopian tech talent

Xinhua) 13:25, May 27, 2021

ADDIS ABABA, May 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese tech giant Huawei is eyeing nurturing aspiring young Ethiopian technology talent, said Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Ji Hui at Huawei Northern Africa region, Wednesday.

Speaking exclusively to Xinhua, Ji said Huawei is nurturing Ethiopian tech talent that can add value to the east African country's economy through innovative technology solutions.

Ji was speaking on the sidelines of the sixth Global Huawei ICT competition Ethiopia edition, which annually brings the brightest brains and most innovative ideas from across Ethiopia and the wider globe.

The winners among 170,000 student participants from more than 40 countries around the world will have the opportunity to represent their country in the 2022 Huawei ICT competition global finals.

The Huawei ICT young talent program is part of the Chinese tech giant's global Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities.

"This is the third round of competition for Ethiopia. This is the first year we introduced the innovation track, previously we cared more about the knowledge competition, but this year we added more elements of innovation, basically what you can do to add value to the economy and to the ICT industry," Ji told Xinhua. "We've previously sent more than 30 students from Ethiopia to China for two-week training programs, to help turn their technological ideas into realities."

Ji praised the increasing presence of young Ethiopian women aspirants in Huawei's annual ICT competition.

The CFO for Huawei Northern Africa region also disclosed the Chinese tech giant is committed to deepening its involvement in Ethiopia's ICT sector, now that Ethiopia has started to liberalize its telecom sector.

"The Ethiopian government can help the economy to have more growth momentum besides traditional ways of boosting growth," Ji said. "The Ethiopia Ministry of Finance recent granting of a new license to telecom operators will boost the number of private ICT firms in the east African country which has a large young population and is also a huge marketplace."

On Saturday, Ethiopia awarded the country's first telecom license to a Vodacom Group Consortium which had offered 850 million U.S. dollars license fee.

Ethiopia's telecom industry is considered as a huge untapped market, as the east African country has the second highest number of population in Africa, only surpassed by Nigeria.

Ethiopia is also undertaking extensive telecom modernization services with the help of Chinese firms as part of the east African country's aim of realizing digital inclusion and boosting the size of its digital economy, with the provision of reliable, high band-width and high-speed telecom services.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
Hartford City, IN (47348)

Today

Sunny early then increasing clouds with some scattered thunderstorms this afternoon. High 92F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Isolated thunderstorms this evening. Skies will become partly cloudy after midnight. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%.
During Ford Capital Markets Day, Hau Thai-Tang, Chief Product Platform and Operations Officer, said that Ford anticipates 40% of Fords global vehicle volume will be fully electric by 2030a massive shift from the low single digits today.

Our goal is to win with BEVS and achieve equal to higher market share in the same high-volume segments and markets that we compete in today with ICE vehicles. Our ultimate goal is to deliver a holistic ecosystem including services that should allow us to achieve higher profitability over time with BEVs than we do today with ICE vehicles. Plus, a digital ecosystem and resulting network effect will create a first mover advantage and stickiness for Ford for years to come. This is why we have been so passionate about growing our investment in BEVS and battery technologynow $30 billion by 2025. Hau Thai-Tang

Thai-Tang and his colleagues outlined where and how the company is headed with fully electric vehicles, commercial solutions and connected services. The company is accelerating investments and increasing planned total spending on electrificationincluding battery developmentto more than $30 billion by 2025, while deriving efficiencies from Fords flexible EV architecture and modular technologies.

Batteries. IonBoost+ plus is Fords next-generation battery technology featuring the highest energy density of any cell of its type. IonBoost+ features a unique pouch cell format that is ideal for large vehicles and performance products, Thai-Tang said. The technology scales across product lines.

Ford is also developing a different battery cell optimized for commercial vehicles. IonBoostPro uses a lithium iron phosphate chemistry that costs less, and is better suited for duty cycles that require less range, and where batteries are fully drained every use cycle. Both of those are key requirements for commercial customers, Thai-Tang said.\.

Fords investment in solid-state battery company SolidPower (earlier post) underscores that Ford believes production-feasible solid-state batteries are within reach this decade.

Lisa Drake, Fords Chief Operating Officer, North America, said that Ford is absolutely committed to designing, engineering and manufacturing its own batteries. Fords plans call for 240 GWh of battery cell capacity by the end of the decade; 140 GWh will be required in North America, with the balance in Europe and China.

Noting the partnership with SK (earlier post), Drake said that the cost ambition of the partnership was to deliver a 40% reduction in battery cost by mid-decade vs. 2021. Drake said Ford is on track to under $100/kWh by 2025; the goal is to achieve an $80/kWh target before the end of the decade.

Vehicle architectures. Ford has five flexible architectures in use in its portfolio today: battery-electric vehicle; commercial van unibody; rear-wheel drive unibody; front-wheel drive unibody; and body on frame.

Moving to BEVs allows reimagining architectures, Thai-Tang said. With BEVs sharing common items, Ford can optimize the lineup for scale, efficiency and more profitability. Ford plans to share cells, BMS, motors, gearboxes, motor controller units, and more. When coupled with catalog of cross vehicle technologies, Ford can share up to 80% of vehicle value across the portfolio.

Ford is introducing two BEV architectures: a RWD/AWD flexible architecture that will handle models up through mid-size trucks and 2- and 3-row midsize SUVs; and a scalable, dedicated BEV architecture for next-generation full-size pickups and utilities.





RWD/AWD flexible architecture platform (left) and full-size pickup and utility platform (right).

Ford expects one-third of all full-size pickups in the US to be all-electric by 2030about 800,000 vehicles annually. It expects 70% of full-size bus and vans to be electric by 2030about 300,000 vehicles annually.





RWD/AWD BEV architecture.

Thai-Tang noted that it is more efficient for Ford to partner with VW and its MEB in Europe for small and mid-size BEVs there. As for Fords relationship with Rivian, Thai-Tang said that Ford was learning from their perspective as an agile startup. Both [VW and Rivian] are adding value.

Next-gen tech stack: Blue Oval Intelligence. Fords next-gen tech stack, called Blue Oval Intelligence, encompasses software architecture; cloud and edge networks; the vehicle electric architecture; power distribution; and onboard computers, memory and sensing hardware.





The new vehicle electric architecture is moving the computing and data workload from standalone modules to a centralized processing center with considerably more compute power and memory. This will allow physical sensors on the vehicle to be separate from the logic and data they consume and produce. This allows OTA updates without changing the hardware.
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Western Wyoming Community College President Kimberly Dale talks to Gov. Mark Gordon about the college as they tour the Rock Springs campus last week.

A visit and tour of Western Wyoming Community College led to Gov. Mark Gordon and leaders from WWCC and the University of Wyoming to promote a partnership between the state's community colleges and the university,

WIN, the Wyoming Innovation Network, aims to refocus the state's higher education network by creating more collaboration between UW and the community colleges and focus on economic opportunities important to the state's different regions. For Sweetwater and its surrounding counties, that means industry.

Kimberly Dale, Western's President, said the collaboration will help create economic development opportunities throughout Wyoming. She said the college has a strong industrial technology program its leaders are seeking to expand. She said the college hopes to provide training for what she describes as "H3 jobs," jobs that are in high demand, require a highly-skilled employee and offer a high wage. Dale also said the college is "dusting off" its outdoor recreation program, saying the college understands the need to sell recreational opportunities to prospective employees. She said one of the challenges employers face is retaining employees.

"We understand the quality-of-life issue," she said.

Gordon said demographics in the state's higher education system are changing rapidly as nontraditional students, which are students who don't immediately start a higher education program after high school, are the majority of students seen at the community colleges. According to statistics provided by Western, the average age of a full-time student is 21, while the average age of a part-time student is 26.

"Things are changing so dramatically," he said.

Gordon said Wyoming is in a better position to pivot to those changes, describing the state's colleges as being small and nimble while providing a world-class education.

Ed Seidel, President of UW, said he was "blown away" by what he had seen at Western, describing the school as a magnificent facility and marveling at the number of corporate partnerships it has built. He views the colleges as being important to the communities they serve and being a place area students can earn advanced certificates provided by those colleges, offerings WIN seeks to expand upon.

Seidel also said the partnership is important for the state, saying neither the university or any of the community colleges have the critical mass needed to handle a project on their own.

One of the fruits of this new collaboration with UW is a maker space WWCC is working to install. Dale said it would be open to anyone, not just students, and allow them to work on personal projects that could become the start of a new business.
CASPER  Wyoming Sen. Anthony Bouchard says he is staying in the U.S. House race following the disclosure that he impregnated a 14-year-old when he was 18, striking a defiant tone at the possibility that he could face repercussions in the Wyoming Legislature.

Theyre gonna censure me for (what I did) 37 years ago? Thatd be great, he said. Do it. Bring it on.

Bouchard has faced a wave of criticism after he acknowledged late Thursday that he had impregnated the girl, whom he married a year later.

But speaking to the Star-Tribune after a Monday legislative meeting in Gillette, Bouchard scoffed at the idea that he might drop out.

Im standing strong. Im not going anywhere, Bouchard told supporters in a Saturday Facebook live video.

Bouchard disclosed the pregnancy after learning he was going to be the subject of an investigative story, which the U.Ks Daily Mail then published Friday. He offered details about the age of the girl at time, as well as his own age, in a subsequent interview with the Star-Tribune.

Floridas current age of consent is 18, but its unclear what that law was at the time of the pregnancy.

On Monday, Bouchard declined to answer follow up questions about whether he was still in high school at the time the two met.

Im not talking anymore about that, about this story, he said.

Its unclear whether Bouchard will face repercussions in the Wyoming Legislature, but one member of legislative leadership left open the possibility.

At this point were looking into it, Dan Dockstader, president of the Wyoming Senate, said in an email Monday. The Afton Republican declined to provide further details.

As his campaign pushes on, Bouchard and his campaign coordinator, April Poley, said that the rate of campaign donations has increased since the news about the pregnancy broke.

Because campaign donations do not have to be publicly reported as they are received, the Star-Tribune was unable to independently verify the campaigns claims.

Bouchard has served as a Wyoming state senator since 2017 and is a longtime gun rights advocate. But he gained newfound prominence in January after he became the first Republican in Wyoming to challenge Rep. Liz Cheney for her House seat following her vote to impeach then-President Donald Trump.

On Thursday, Bouchard disclosed the relationship and pregnancy in a Facebook Live video. He told supporters that he went public with the information to get ahead of a story on his past. He insisted that the revelations wouldnt derail his campaign.

Hours later, Bouchard told the Star-Tribune that he impregnated the girl when she was 14 and he was 18.

So, bottom line, its a story from when I was young, two teenagers, girl gets pregnant, he said in the Facebook Live video. Youve heard those stories before. She was a little younger than me, so its like the Romeo and Juliet story.

Bouchard told the Star-Tribune he legally married the girl when she was 15 and he was 19. He said he was never charged with a crime in connection with the relationship.

The Star-Tribune reached out to the Florida State Bar, Florida State University College of Law, the Florida attorney general, public defenders, current and former prosecutors, and multiple law firms, and none of them was able to offer substantial answers on Floridas laws concerning age of consent at the time.

On Friday, the U.K.s Daily Mail published the story that apparently prompted Bouchard to make the Facebook Live video. It cited an unnamed Republican operative who is in the Donald Trump faction of the party.

We want this to be known about him because we need to clean the field, the operative is quoted as saying. Five other candidates in the primary are going to split the vote in a small place like Wyoming, and Cheney is going to waltz in again.

Eight candidates have already announced they would challenge Cheney in the 2022 GOP primary.

Most pundits suspect a large field benefits Cheney because the challengers could split the vote.

The Daily Mail story featured an interview with state Sen. Ogden Driskill, R-Devils Tower. Bouchard used a significant part of his latest Facebook Live to criticize his colleague in the Senate.

Hes one of the guys that supports the deep state, Bouchard said in the video. He doesnt really work for you. Yeah, Ogden, Im talking about you, buddy. Yeah, I dont care if youre gonna push at me. If you push at me, Im going to fight back.

Driskill did not hesitate to respond.

If youre an honest candidate, you deal with the facts in an honest fashion. And his entire video (Saturday night), the one he did to try to reply to the news source that found out what actually went on, was actually not owning up to what happened. Theyre all excuses, Driskill told the Star-Tribune.

This isnt a Romeo and Juliet story, he continued. This is an absolute true tragedy.
GREENWICH  Slave labor was employed for generations in Greenwich, but there has never been a memorial to the hundreds of enslaved men and women who toiled on farms, built roads and created a prosperous community without any compensation  and little historical recognition.

That changed Thursday, with the placement of Witness Stones at the grounds of the Greenwich Historical Society, where some 15 enslaved men and women once worked and lived. A group of students and educators have been researching the lives of four of those enslaved laborers for the past two years, to bring them out of the historical shadows. In a ceremony, four stones with their names on them were laid next to the building where they were believed to have lived and slept.

Debra Mecky, the historical societys executive director, said the initiative by students at Greenwich Academy and Sacred Heart Greenwich, with assistance by the staff at the historical society, had succeeded in an effort to bear witness and shine a light on our past.

The Greenwich research and memorial initiative was tied in with the Witness Stones Project, which has been commemorating the lives of enslaved people in the Northeast with memorial markers beginning in 2017.

The Rev. Thomas Nins, pastor of the First Baptist Church, said community residents he speaks with about the slavery-education project often react with shock, dismay, ambivalence and denial, and said many people are unaware that the institution of slavery has a long history in northern states. Slavery was not fully abolished in Connecticut until 1848.

Some truths are hard to accept, some realities we would rather forget, said Nins. This truth, that there were slaves in the town of Greenwich, is not something everyone embraces, and some people would rather not deal with.

The students researchers and educators performed a valuable service, he said.

I want to commend those who were part of this project for being courageous, Nins said. For taking the necessary step, to say, There is another truth, there is another reality that has existed, and were going to share it.

It is important to give a voice to the voiceless, and providing names to the nameless, and research into a dark chapter of the towns past will be a benefit, he said. We have learned from it, hopefully, and we will be better for it going into the future, the reverend said.

According to research by the historical society, there were about 300 enslaved people in Greenwich in 18th and 19th centuries. The local students researched the lives of Cull Bush Sr. and his domestic partner, Patience, as well as Candice Bush, and her daughter Hester Mead, poring through old wills, census forms and death certificates.

Students gave brief presentations about the four people they had researched  describing how young Candice was put to work in the kitchen of the Bush family homestead at the age of 10, and how Patience raised six children, all leading hard lives.

Clare Junius, a Sacred Heart seventh-grader, said her research opened up my eyes to the personal tragedy of slavery. She said she was struck by how little documentation exists on the enslaved laborers, how they had been erased from history, even as the lives of the white families for whom they toiled were recorded in copious detail.

Lily Broughton, another Sacred Heart student, said the poor living conditions that the enslaved families endured struck her. They slept in the attic and didnt have much food, she said.

Many of the millions of enslaved people who were forced to work for their owners werent even recognized as humans, but property or objects, said Sacred Heart student Lillie Foster. She noted that Cull Bush did not have a gravestone erected after his death sometime around 1845. The Witness Stone placed in his memory is a way to restore his humanity, and others like him, she said.

They deserved to be recognized as humans. ... We can now make sure that almost every enslaved person is remembered, as we are doing today, she said.

Hazel Carrion of Sacred Heart, who researched the life of Candice Bush, said she was impressed by her determination, creating a life for herself after she was given freedom. Her story is an example of how difficult a life it was for African-Americans for centuries, Carrion said.

Ana Gonzalez, a Greenwich Academy high school student, described the life of Hester Mead at the ceremony. She said she was thankful that the staff at the historical society had preserved records and encouraged the research, or it is very likely that Hesters story and many others like her would have been forgotten. She said a greater awareness of Hester Mead and her family gave a better understanding of our nations history.

First Selectman Fred Camillo said he said he hoped that the recognition of the enslaved people in Greenwich would gain greater recognition. Its something that should stay on our minds whenever we talk about the history of Greenwich, that this is a part of it, Camillo said.

The four small stones, cast from concrete, hold a bronze plaque that provides the names of the four people and a brief description of their lives. Students will continue the research project on the 11 other slave laborers who lived at the Bush-Holley homestead, which became the campus of the historical society.

rmarchant@greenwichtime.com
GREENWICH  The number of trees cut down in town recently has been truly shocking, one resident said during a virtual hearing before the tree warden about Eversources plan to take down another 29 trees in four locations in Greenwich.

Eversource announced it plans to remove 21 trees at Oval Avenue at the Riverside train station, five trees at Cos Cob Park, one tree on Arch Street at Summit Road and two trees at Sound Beach Avenue on the south side of the Old Greenwich train station in the parking lot.

Our neighborhood has been punished pretty severely with the tree removal that happened along the Metro-North tracks a little bit to the east of the station, Elizabeth Peldunas, a board member of the Riverside Association, said during the virtual hearing Wednesday to appeal the plan. People are highly sensitive to this point of any more trees coming down.

The Greenwich Tree Conservancy also objected, with Executive Director JoAnn Messina saying, We dont see a reason for this.

These are not trees for the most part that are going to in any way affect the wires, she said. Safety comes first, and we want to be proactive and we dont want to lose power in town because of trees and wires. But we dont see this as an issue right now.

But Eversource said the trees are in its right of way, which the utility company monitors for vegetation in order to maintain reliability of the transmission grid and to allow for access during emergency situations.

This is an access issue as well as a safety and reliability issue, Kathy Ferrier, supervisor of transmission and vegetation management for Eversource, said at the hearing. We have to keep the trees away from the wires. Vegetation and contact coming from close proximity with our transmission lines has the ability to cause interruptions to thousands of customers.

The proactive approach to tree removal has improved Eversources performance during severe weather, Ferrier said. The proposed tree removal is part of a four-year cycle of maintenance. The plan is to remove incompatible species of tall trees and shrubs that mature at heights more than 15 feet and clear 25 feet around the right of way, she said.

Eversource is amenable to replanting in some areas with low-growing compatible trees that we wouldnt need to do maintenance on, she said. When asked by the public during the hearing, Ferrier said Eversource generally does not do one-for-one tree replacements but said the utility would bring in a landscape designer.

Town Tree Warden Gregory Kramer will issue a written opinion on the appeal within three business days of the hearing. It will be posted on the town website under agendas and minutes with a heading for Parks and Recreation public tree hearings.

In December, residents protested outside Riverside School, which is located alongside the Metro-North tracks, because the railroad was cutting down trees, saying it was damaging the aesthetics and environment in the area.

Many of those concerns were expressed again at Wednesdays appeal.

This is an inordinate number of trees that are going to be removed, said Gillian Levy, who lives adjacent to the train station. I find the trees really beautify the area. They help decrease the dust thats produced by the train station, the large parking lot and the trains going by. I feel like they help clear the air and are good for the local environment.

Town resident Lucy Krasnor said the plan is ludicrous because the targeted trees are not as close to the wires as Eversource said.

What has happened to our town has been truly shocking with trees being cut down right down the line, Krasnor said.

Tree removal has been a hot topic in town in recent months, with debates over the removal of a tree from Greenwich Avenue as part of an improvement project and at Greenwich High School over the Cardinal Stadium construction. But Wednesdays appeal was more about the ongoing back and forth between tree advocates and Eversource.

Town resident Jeff Ramer said he disagreed with Eversource about the current problem, saying the tree branches are far from the wires and decades away from reaching those heights. It would be far better to prune the trees than to cut them down, he said.

Ramer urged the good discretion of Dr. Kramer to determine which trees currently pose a threat, even if it meant Eversource would have to return in the future to do more pruning. Peldunas also suggested a hybrid approach with pruning instead of removing all the trees.

The community is already dismayed with the experience it had with the trees that were cut down along the right of way by the railroad and also alongside (Interstate 95) between Exits 3 and 4 for some sewer lines that went in, Ramer said. Were fearful that well be looking at the same kind of clear-cutting here.

kborsuk@greenwichtime.com
For Stephanie Davis, who grew up with little, the military was a path to the American dream, a realm where everyone would receive equal treatment. She joined the service in 1988 after finishing high school in Thomasville, Georgia, a small town said to be named for a soldier who fought in the War of 1812.

Over the course of decades, she steadily advanced, becoming a flight surgeon, commander of flight medicine at Fairchild Air Force Base and, eventually, a lieutenant colonel.

But many of her service colleagues, Davis says, saw her only as a Black woman. Or for the white resident colleagues who gave her the call sign of ABW  it was a joke, they insisted  an angry black woman, a classic racist trope.

White subordinates often refused to salute her or seemed uncomfortable taking orders from her, she says. Some patients refused to call her by her proper rank or even acknowledge her. She was attacked with racial slurs. And during her residency, she was the sole Black resident in a program with no Black faculty, staff or ancillary personnel.

For Blacks and minorities, when we initially experience racism or discrimination in the military, we feel blindsided, Davis said. Were taught to believe that its the one place where everybody has a level playing field and that we can make it to the top with work thats based on merit.

In interviews with The Associated Press, current and former enlistees and officers in nearly every branch of the armed services described a deep-rooted culture of racism and discrimination that stubbornly festers, despite repeated efforts to eradicate it.

The AP found that the militarys judicial system has no explicit category for hate crimes, making it difficult to quantify crimes motivated by prejudice.

The Defense Department also has no way to track the number of troops ousted for extremist views, despite its repeated pledges to root them out. More than 20 people linked to the Jan. 6 siege of the U.S. Capitol were found to have military ties.

The AP also found that the Uniform Code of Military Justice does not adequately address discriminatory incidents and that rank-and-file people of color commonly face courts-martial panels made up of all-white service members, which some experts argue can lead to harsher outcomes.

The military said it processed more than 750 complaints of discrimination by race or ethnicity from service members in the fiscal year 2020 alone. But discrimination doesnt exist just within the military rank-and-file. That same fiscal year, civilians working in the financial, technical and support sectors of the Army, Air Force and Navy also filed 900 complaints of racial discrimination and over 350 complaints of discrimination by skin color, data from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission shows.

In February, Lloyd J. Austin III  a former Army general who now is secretary of defense, the first Black man to serve in the post  ordered commanders and supervisors to take an operational pause for one day to discuss extremism in the ranks with their service members.

Austin gave commanders the latitude to address the matter as they saw fit, but emphasized that discussions should include the meaning of their oath, acceptable behaviors both in and out of uniform, and how service members can report actual or suspected extremist behavior through their chains of command.

A recent poll from The Military Times showed the stand-down was received with mixed reviews. Some service members said their units went above and beyond, but others reported their trainers made disparaging comments that undercut the discussions and that the sessions were short and non-interactive.

The Southern Poverty Law Center sent Austin a letter shortly after his order, applauding him for his decisive action but underscoring that systemic change on all military levels is urgent.

Those who are indoctrinated into white supremacist ideology present a significant threat to national security and the safety of our communities, SPLC President Margaret Huang wrote.

In a statement to the AP, the Defense Department said extremism is not widespread in the armed forces, but acknowledged that efforts to stamp out extremist views from the rank-and-file have historically been reactive versus proactive until recently. Pentagon spokesman Maj. Cesar Santiago pointed to Austins stand-down order in February that stressed the oath of office taken by military personnel, including a commitment to protecting our nation from enemies foreign and domestic.

Santiago added that we know that far too many service members indicate they experience discrimination. He noted that the Defense Department had launched multiple efforts in the past year, including updating its anti-harassment policy, assessing its training on implicit bias, and developing data-driven strategies to guide efforts to attract and retain diverse members and also identify unhealthy work environments.

When Davis was medically retired by the Air Force in 2019 after more than two decades of service, she felt ground down by overt racism and retaliated against for accusing a superior of sexually assaulting her.

She noted how insidious racism can be to members of the ranks  service members entrust their lives to their fellow troops, and a lack of cohesion in a unit can be deadly.

It creates a harmful and dangerous work environment, Davis said. And a lot of us suffer in silence because we feel like theres nothing that can be done.

In the midst of last years summer of unrest sparked by police killings of Black Americans across the nation, Army Gen. Mark A. Milley, who is also the Department of Defenses Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told congressional leaders the military cannot afford racism or discrimination.

We who wear the cloth of our nation understand that cohesion is a force multiplier, Milley said. Divisiveness leads to defeat. As one of our famous presidents said, A house divided does not stand.

Austin pledged to rid the ranks of racists and extremists during his confirmation hearing before Congress, which came on the heels of the Capitol insurrection.

The job of the Department of Defense is to keep America safe from our enemies, he said. But we cant do that if some of those enemies lie within our own ranks.

___

Its standard custom for enlisted personnel to show their respect to higher-ranking colleagues by offering salutes that are held until the gesture is returned.

When Marine Maj. Tyrone Collier was a newly minted second lieutenant and judge advocate, he had a profound experience with that practice. Collier, a Black man, was at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Virginia when he was saluted by a Black enlisted Marine. But even after Collier acknowledged the gesture, the salute continued. Puzzled, Collier asked why the Marine held it for so long.

He said, Sir, I just have to come clean with something. ... We never see Black officers. We never see people like you and it makes me extraordinarily proud, Collier recalled.

You can imagine what its like for a Black enlisted Marine who, for example, might want to consider becoming a warrant officer or a commissioned officer or who served under commander after commander and received so few opportunities to see people that look like them in higher ranks, Collier said. Representation really does matter.

Though that prolonged salute took place in 2010, the racial picture has not improved much since.

At the end of 2020, the Defense Departments Diversity and Inclusion Board released a report aimed at identifying ways to improve racial and ethnic diversity in the U.S. military.

Among the reports findings: The enlisted ranks of the active and reserve military were slightly more racially and ethnically diverse than its U.S. civilian counterparts. But not the officer corps. Furthermore, it found that the civilian population eligible to become commissioned officers was less racially and ethnically diverse than the civilian population eligible for enlisted service.

The breakdown of all active commissioned officers: 73% white; 8% each Black and Hispanic; 6% Asian; 4% multiracial; and less than 1% Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, American Indian or Alaska Native. And the diversity gap widened the higher individuals moved up in the ranks.

The report emphasized the increasing importance of the representation of minorities reflecting the nations morphing demographics, saying the Defense Department must ensure that all service members have access to opportunities to succeed and advance into leadership positions.

Several Black officers interviewed by the AP said the culture must give way if they are ever to flourish.

While serving in Afghanistan, one Marine officer recalled being questioned by a white colleague about why he was conversing with fellow Black officers. My response to him was I dont ask you why youre always hanging out with white officers, said the Marine, who asked not to be named because he remains on active duty. Why cant they just be officers? Why the qualifier?

Thomas Hobbs, an infantry colonel who retired after 27 years of service in the Marine Corps in 2018, was among the officers interviewed who spoke of the pressures of trying to blend into an overwhelmingly white male culture, while also feeling the need to outperform white officers to negate racial stereotypes.

Hobbs said the Marines have done better than other branches of the service in recruiting Black candidates into the officer corps, but noted that many of them dont stay in the military past their 10th year.

At the moment, we have more captains than we ever had before, he said, but our field grade levels are actually going down. Why dont they stay in? Because theyre exhausted from having to act a certain way all the time and they can never be themselves.

The Marine who remains on active duty also called it exhausting, adding not only do you have to deal with your own things but whenever a Black enlisted Marine gets in trouble, they will come to you and say, Oh man, whats wrong with these guys? Coming to you like youre the expert on everything Black.

Collier said he felt pressure to act differently from the first moments he was recruited, recalling an encounter at a formal dinner with a Marine major trying to bring him into the service.

I was one of two Black men who were applying  and he and I were chatting, and the selection officer kind of mentioned to us, Hey, you guys might not want to isolate yourselves in this way because it might not look good,' Collier said. I mean, this is one of my first experiences involving the Marine Corps and I have a Marine major telling me I cant talk to another Black person without worrying about how people will look at us if were purposely isolating ourselves from the group.

Other service members of color detailed incidents in which they said they were discouraged by superiors from openly embracing their cultures. Some said they were told to avoid speaking languages other than English to not offend their mostly white colleagues.

Former Air Force Master Sgt. Ricardo Lemos, who was medically discharged in 2019, said a superior once discouraged him from speaking to his mother in Spanish on the phone in the office because people cant understand you.

And some Black women detailed the challenges they faced navigating a culture that often labels them as aggressive or difficult and their natural hair as unkempt or unprofessional.

DeMarcus Gilliard, a 34-year-old former Marine captain, told the AP that he felt an unspoken pressure to prove himself better than his peers when he entered the Basic School, where new officers learn the ropes, feeling like a symbol of Black Americans.

But he said he never experienced overt racism there and credits the Marine Corps for making strides toward diversifying its top ranks.

Its a great idea, I dont see color, but it actually is pretty dismissive. And I think not talking about issues of race actually exacerbates the problem and we need to be able to talk about these things, said Gilliard. I think the Marine Corps would be a great place to do it.

The Basic School told the AP that sessions on diversity and inclusion are a core part of the training it offers, including discussions about the negative impact bias has on leadership, decision-making and cohesiveness.

Last year, Gen. David Berger , who became the top general of the Marine Corps in 2019, used the occasion of the Marine Corps Associations annual Modern Day Marine expo to drive home the message that diversifying the service will save lives.

I am absolutely convinced: Too much similarity, too much that we look all the same, think the same, got the same background  were going to get killed because were going to end up with solutions that were all familiar with, but theyre easy to counter, Berger said.

___

Racism in the ranks is not merely a modern stain. More than a half-century ago in 1971, Frank W. Render, a Black man who was assistant secretary of defense, resigned over what he viewed as unequal treatment of people of color.

That same year, the Defense Department created what is now known as the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute  the Pentagons premier agency for education and training programs covering diversity and inclusion within the U.S. military.

One of its tools is an anonymous, voluntary organizational climate survey that offers a snapshot of a units institutional effectiveness and provides commanders with insight into diversity and inclusion issues within their ranks and how they are addressed.

Racist, sexual and bigoted jokes are a daily occurrence in my work place, a Marine at Californias Camp Pendleton wrote in one December 2017 survey. Very little has really ever been done to prevent it. Another Marine said slurs were commonly uttered by officers and enlisted colleagues with no repercussions.

But not everyone is comfortable filling out the surveys or with being honest. Women assigned to Navy SEAL units, for example, fear they can be identified since the surveys break down demographics by gender, rank and race and not many women are assigned to special operation units.

Congress and the Defense Department have mandated that the surveys be conducted annually or whenever a unit changes commanders, but response rates vary widely across units, the surveys do not fall under the Federal Records Act and they are destroyed after three years.

Using multiple Freedom of Information Act requests, the AP managed to collect surveys for the past four years, concentrating on the eleven aircraft carriers in the U.S. Navy fleet due to their large population size, which can mimic a small floating city with more than 5,000 personnel.

In surveys collected from 2017, 265 sailors from the USS Abraham Lincoln, the USS George Washington, the USS John C. Stennis, the USS Nimitz and the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower said they personally experienced racial discrimination. But in the fall of that year, the discrimination question softened, moving from pointed inquiries to broadly asking whether discrimination does not occur.

Since that change, in 2019, the latest complete year obtained by AP, more than 1,600 sailors  or 1 in 5  disagreed, saying racial discrimination did take place on their ships, with nearly a third reporting racial jokes, comments or slurs. Nearly 1 in 4 sailors said they could not use their chain of command to report incidents without fear of retaliation or reprisal, and 4 out of every 10 said discipline is unfairly administered.

Out of the 11 aircraft carriers, the George Washington, John C. Stennis and Abraham Lincoln performed worst when sailors were asked about racial discrimination and whether they could safely report harassment. In 2019 on the George Washington, for instance, 30% of sailors said unequal treatment occurred based on race, color or national origin.

The APs request to interview a representative of the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute was referred to the Pentagon, which did not provide anyone with knowledge of the workings of the command climate surveys.

In a statement, the Navy called diversity a key component to maintaining our highest state of readiness, adding that certainly our military is better served when it reflects the nation it serves and all of its members are treated with dignity and respect.

___

As a young airman, Nick Shands didnt initially think much of it when he received a request to report to the medical treatment facility on Mountain Home Air Force Base. But when he arrived, he thought it was strange that he saw only a handful of superiors and a large dumpster. His task: Climb in and sift through the garbage for documents containing personally identifiable information.

Shands, one of the few Black airmen on the Idaho base, was stunned by the order but clambered over the side for what turned out to be a nearly all-day task, as his superiors watched him search fruitlessly.

He said it was just one incident among several on the nearly all-white base where he felt singled out, including being told repeatedly that he wasnt built for the military.

If it was for the purpose of to embarrass and to mentally break you, I guess thats what they tried to do, he said.

Shands said targeted racism and discrimination continued after he left Idaho and served on different bases, leading him to depart the military in 2018. He believes a tough road lies ahead for the Defense Department and Congress, which provides oversight, to address structural racism in the military and prevent other service members from suffering as he did.

But a round of sweeping changes to the National Defense Authorization Act  which primarily funds and lays out policies governing the Defense Department and military services  could present a unique opportunity to begin to turn the tide toward systemic change.

A bill that was passed earlier this year ordered the Secretary of Defense to devise a plan to remove all names, symbols, displays and monuments that honor the Confederacy, including the renaming of military bases such as Fort Benning and Fort Hood that honor Confederate leaders.

Several years ago, they uncovered a cell of white supremacists down at Fort Bragg, U.S. House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn recalled in an interview with the AP. Were they there because of the attitudes they brought with them or were they celebrating the fact that Fort Bragg is named after a segregationist?

Thats one reason those of us here in Congress feel that we need to get rid of all of the institutionalization and the celebration of these racist attitudes, Clyburn said.

Buried deep within the more than 1,400-page bill are mechanisms aimed at transforming the way the military addresses racism and extremism from within. It lays out tracking and reporting requirements for supremacist, extremist and criminal gang activity, and creates an inspector general to oversee diversity and inclusion efforts.

And it says the military must add questions to its climate surveys that explicitly ask about racism, antisemitism and supremacism.

In addition, Shands believes the military  like the nation it is sworn to protect  also needs to do some deep soul-searching.

Though he has moved on with his life, he carries humiliation and pain that he cannot erase.

Still, he will always cherish aspects of his military career. As a public health instructor with the USAF School of Aerospace Medicine, he had a direct impact on students eager to make a change in the world. He also met his wife in the military.

After the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis sparked protests that swept the globe, Shands finally confronted one of his former superiors  a white woman involved with the dumpster task more than a decade ago.

After the woman posted in a private military Facebook group that Black Lives Matter, Shands reached out to remind her of the incident, telling her he hoped it didnt take the murders of Black humans to awaken her to the discrimination and racism that exists in both America and the Air Force  including the discrimination she exerted upon him.

The woman acknowledged she did not treat Shands well and had been incredibly ignorant to acknowledging and/or recognizing many things, including systemic racism and the presence of it in the Air Force, according to the screenshots reviewed by the AP.

For Shands, the conversation was cathartic, as others chimed in to offer support. But it also brought home the dualities facing Black Americans and other people of color, inside and out of the military, who are trying to navigate a nation riddled by racism.

Youre not going to escape racism anywhere in this country, he said. The best interpretation Ive ever heard of being in the military, especially a minority or a person of color in the military, is that the military is a microcosm of regular society.

___

EDITOR'S NOTE: As a Marine lance corporal, James LaPorta once served under the command of Col. Thomas Hobbs, but did not work for him directly.

___

Contact APs global investigative team at Investigative@ap.org or https://www.ap.org/tips/
SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP)  A gunman who killed nine people at a California rail yard where he worked appeared to target some of the victims, a sheriff told The Associated Press on Thursday, while a Biden administration official said the shooter spoke of hating his workplace when customs officers detained him after a 2016 trip to the Philippines.

Samuel Cassidy, 57, arrived at the light rail facility for the Valley Transportation Authority in San Jose around 6 a.m. Wednesday with a duffel bag filled with semi-automatic handguns and high-capacity magazines, Santa Clara County Sheriff Laurie Smith said.

It appears to us at this point that he said to one of the people there: Im not going to shoot you, Smith said. And then he shot other people. So I imagine there was some kind of thought on who he wanted to shoot.

While there are no cameras inside the rail yard's two buildings, Smith said footage captured him moving from one location to the next. It took deputies six minutes from the first 911 calls to find Cassidy on the third floor of one of the buildings, Smith said.

Cassidy, who fired a total of 39 bullets, killed himself as deputies closed in on the facility serving the county of more than 1 million people in the heart of Silicon Valley. More than 100 people were there at the time, and authorities found five victims in one building and two in another, Smith said.

Kirk Bertolet, 64, was just starting his shift when shots rang out. He said Thursday that Cassidy worked regularly with the victims. He called them a good bunch of blue-collar people" but said Cassidy stuck out as a loner and outsider.

I know some of those guys, theyll keep joking with you and theyll keep hammering you about stuff. And if youre thin-skinned and you cant take it ... I see that is the main cause of whats going on, Bertolet said.

Sheriffs officials described Cassidy as a highly disgruntled VTA employee for many years," saying that may have contributed to him targeting the workers. Documents show he had worked at the transit authority since at least 2012.

Bertolet, a signal maintenance worker who worked in a separate unit from Cassidy, said he is convinced Cassidy targeted his victims because he didn't hurt people he encountered on the way to the second building, where more shots were fired.

Sam made sure he killed all who he wanted. He made sure they were dead, Bertolet said. I watched some of my coworkers breathe their last breaths, and they were all gone. Seven of them were just gone."

After being detained by customs officers in 2016, Cassidy spoke of hating his workplace and he was found to have a memo book with notes on how he hated the Valley Transportation Authority, according to a Biden administration official who described a Department of Homeland Security memo laying out Cassidy's statements. The official saw the memo and detailed its contents to the AP but was not authorized to speak publicly about the ongoing investigation.

The Wall Street Journal first reported the memo.

It doesn't say why he was stopped by customs officers. It said he had books about terrorism and fear and manifestos" but when he was asked whether he had issues with people at work, he said no. The memo notes that Cassidy had a minor criminal history, citing a 1983 arrest in San Jose and charges of misdemeanor obstruction/resisting a peace officer.

Cassidy's ex-wife said he had talked about killing people at work more than a decade ago.

I never believed him, and it never happened. Until now," a tearful Cecilia Nelms told the AP on Wednesday.

She said he used to come home from work resentful and angry over what he perceived as unfair assignments.

He could dwell on things, she said. The two were married for about 10 years until a 2005 divorce filing, and she had not been in touch with Cassidy for about 13 years, Nelms said.

An ex-girlfriend described Cassidy as volatile and violent in court documents filed in 2009, with major mood swings because of bipolar disorder that became worse when he drank heavily. Several times while he was drunk, Cassidy forced himself on her sexually despite her refusals, pinning her arms with his body, the woman said in a sworn statement filed after Cassidy sought a restraining order against her. The documents were obtained by the San Francisco Chronicle.

Sheriffs officials said the three 9 mm handguns Cassidy brought to the rail yard appear to be legal. Authorities do not yet know how he obtained them.

He also had 32 high-capacity magazines, some with 12 rounds. In California, it is illegal to buy magazines that hold more than 10 rounds. However, if Cassidy obtained them before Jan. 1, 2000, he would have been allowed to have them unless he was otherwise prohibited from possessing firearms.

The sheriff said authorities found explosives at the gunmans home, where investigators believe he had set a timer or slow-burn device so that a fire would occur at the same time as the shooting. Flames were reported minutes after the first 911 calls came in from the rail facility.

The attack was the 15th mass killing in the U.S. this year, all shootings that claimed at least four lives each for a total of 87 deaths, according to a database compiled by The Associated Press, USA Today and Northeastern University.

President Joe Biden urged Congress to act on legislation to curb gun violence, saying, Every life that is taken by a bullet pierces the soul of our nation. We can, and we must, do more.

Several long-time employees were killed, many of whom worked together.

Whatever happened yesterday, it shows the character of these guys, how they tried to save others while going through that chaotic situation, light rail superintendent Naunihal Singh said.

The victims were Alex Ward Fritch, 49; Paul Delacruz Megia, 42; Taptejdeep Singh, 36; Adrian Balleza, 29; Jose Dejesus Hernandez, 35; Timothy Michael Romo, 49; Michael Joseph Rudometkin, 40; Abdolvahab Alaghmandan, 63; and Lars Kepler Lane, 63.

Family and friends remembered Taptejdeep Singh as a hero. He called another transit employee to warn him about Cassidy, saying he needed to get out or hide.

He told me he was with Paul, another victim, at the time, co-worker Sukhvir Singh, who is not related to Taptejdeep Singh, said in a statement. From what Ive heard, he spent the last moments of his life making sure that others  in the building and elsewhere  would be able to stay safe.

Karman Singh said Thursday that his older brother had a lions heart.

At an evening vigil that drew 1,000 people to City Hall, Singh said his brother died fighting for others, and trying to save his community, his VTA community."

Annette Romo, wife of Timothy Romo, told the crowd: I only have a few words to say: Never leave home without giving your loved one a kiss goodbye. Because that was the last I got.

___

Har reported from San Francisco, Dazio from Los Angeles and Long from Washington. Associated Press journalists Jocelyn Gecker and Daisy Nguyen in San Francisco, Martha Mendoza in Santa Cruz and John Antczak in Los Angeles contributed to this report.
DECATUR, Ill. (AP)  Law enforcement officers from around Illinois gathered at Maranatha Assembly of God in Decatur on Wednesday for the funeral of Champaign Police Officer Chris Oberheim, who was shot to death May 19 while responding to a domestic disturbance call.

Rows of police officers stood silently at parade rest outside the church as family and friends mourned the slain police officers inside. Parked in front of the church was a Champaign police car, draped in black ribbon.
GREENWICH  The Greenwich Public Schools will receive slightly less funding than originally anticipated from the American Rescue Plan, but it still will see $9.8 million in federal COVID-19 relief coming its way in the next several years.

And the school district and the Board of Education will soon be seeking public input as to how that money should be spent.

Superintendent of Schools Toni Jones, members of her Cabinet and the Board of Educations Budget Committee met Wednesday to discuss the possible uses of the ARP funds.

Whereas the Greenwich school district anticipated just over $10.2 million earlier this spring, the entire state received less money than expected and the total allocation was revised, according to Budget Committee Chair Kathleen Stowe.

But the district is still eligible to receive $9,858,423, which, in combination with two rounds of allocations from the federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER) and the Coronavirus Relief Fund, comes to more than $16 million total in COVID-related aid.

Weve got a couple of years to spend it, Jones said. We dont want to rush out and spend it all in September. ... So this is going to be multiyear. And were trying to be very thoughtful.

Applications for ARP funds recently opened, but towns and school districts have already been told the amount of money for which theyre eligible. In total, the town of Greenwich is due to receive $32.8 million. According to Jones, the town will likely create a committee to discuss the best uses for the money.

The school money, however, comes with specific stipulations: 20 percent of all funds must be dedicated to initiatives to combat learning loss. And before any of the money is spent, each district is required to solicit feedback from the community.

Dates are not set, but Jones said the district will host public forums, where residents can weigh-in on how they think the money should be spent. The district will also disseminate surveys to staff, students and parents to help shape district priorities for the funding.

In a presentation given Wednesday, Jones, Deputy Superintendent E. Ann Carabillo and Chief Operating Officer Sean OKeefe offered suggestions on how to spend the money, including family and community connections; social, emotional and mental health of students and the school community,; wraparound social, emotional and mental health supports; strategic use of technology; building safe, healthy spaces and buildings; extended school days; and enrichment.

Of the more than $16 million due to Greenwich Schools in COVID relief, the district has spent just under $6 million.

According to Jones, Greenwich was also rewarded for returning students to classrooms for in-person learning at the beginning of the school year last fall, which was incentivized by the federal government in the allocation of ARP funds. As a result, the district received more money than many of its neighbors.

Its nice to be rewarded for doing the right thing, Stowe said.

justin.papp@scni.com; @justinjpapp1; 203-842-2586
Captain Sam Merrett Photo: Victor Llorente

In this golden age of online grocery shopping, you can get bee pollen shipped overnight and have monthly boxes of pineapple linzer cookies dropped at your door. But now, New Yorkers have another way to relish in raw honey, probiotic hot sauce, and other coveted groceries: via the schooner Apollonia, a 64-foot sailboat, built in 1946, with a steel hull, billowing white sails, and a lovable boat dog named Hoku.

The retro sailboat arrived from Hudson, New York, to stops at the South Street Seaport and the industrial Red Hook waterfront last weekend after a six-day sail downriver, making deliveries all down the state. Forsaking engine power to journey by sails alone, the four-person crew zigzagged across the narrow river to catch the wind while dodging mud flats, commercial barges, and fishing boats searching for striped bass.

The Apollonias main purpose is to deliver 12,000 pounds of grain from Hudson Valley Malt and Stone House Grain to five brewers and distillers along the river, creating a carbon-minimal supply chain. But the ships hold is also piled high with goods from upstate food businesses like Poor Devil Pepper Company and Atina Foods to bring down to Beacon, Kingston, Ossining, Brooklyn, and Manhattan; meanwhile, Stone Street Coffee and drink selections from Honeys are making the return trip upstate. Its a bet to lure New Yorkers to the waterfront to spark modern interest in a very old form of carbon-neutral transportation: sail freight.

Were trying to build a highly visible green supply chain, and as far as I can tell, theres not a much better way to start the dialogue than to show up in a schooner at a waterfront with a bunch of cargo aboard and tell the story of where it came from, says captain Sam Merrett.

Photo: Victor Llorente

Merrett grew up in the Hudson Valley. In addition to running a company that modifies diesel engines to run on used vegetable oil, hes a longtime member of the Hudson Sloop Club, a public co-op that promotes sailing and educational programming along the mighty river. His enthusiasm for river revitalization  even on four hours of sleep after a night of uncooperative wind  is contagious.

Merrett and Ben Ezinga, the Apollonias business manager, bought the stout schooner off Craigslist in 2014. Built in 1946, the boat was little more than a hull and engine, but the bones were there, and it seemed indestructible. Merrett and Ezinga suspected it had the potential to successfully navigate the Hudsons often unpredictable waters.

Tianna Kennedy, farmer-owner at Star Route Farm in Charlotteville, New York, and proprietor of the collaborative 607 CSA, joined to handle fundraising and logistics. She ran logistics for the Vermont Sail Freight Projects launch in 2013, a formative exemplar of a growing global freight-sail movement. Earlier this month, Grain de Sail delivered 15,000 bottles of organic French wine and chocolate bars to the marina in Brooklyn Bridge Park after a 27-day journey across the Atlantic. It plans to return twice a year.

Photos: Victor Llorente. Photos: Victor Llorente.

Retrofitting existing transportation systems for sustainability starts with a lot of planning. An inboard engine is required to tie up at docks, but the use is minimal. (At the end of last years season, the Apollonias 35-gallon-capacity tank still contained diesel.) To close the metaphorical last mile between the dock and breweries, the crew uses a Tern e-bike and Carla Cargo trailer from Revolution Rickshaws. Combined, it can haul up to 400 pounds at a time, a feat that came in handy when the ship was unable to find docking space in Beacon. Undaunted, they stopped across the river in Newburgh and biked 2,500 pounds of grain across the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge and down Main Street to Hudson Valley Brewing in trips.

And then there is the issue of maintaining a schedule without running an engine. One windless night, the crew was forced to drop anchor and wait for the tides to change and carry the schooner downriver. Ultimately, they still made it into New York City 18 hours early.

Unsurprisingly, the service comes at a small premium. Participating breweries and distilleries pay about $200 to $300 extra per delivery compared to using trucks  but its an opportunity to stand out to socially conscious consumers in a market where the words locally grown and sustainable frequently appear on booze labels.

Thats the missing link in sustainably produced foods and beverages: No matter how sustainably its grown, if it had to get shipped to you by a diesel-powered truck, theres a big part of the story that could be improved, says Ezinga.

The freight-shipping dream is well timed for New Yorks moment of increased waterfront revitalization. The heavily subsidized NYC Ferry System, which operates five routes plus a seasonal weekend service to Governors Island, is scheduled to launch two new routes this year: St. George and Coney Island. And waterfront newcomer Little Island park now juts out into the Hudson atop concrete tulip pilings.

So it goes that the Apollonias unloading at Reti Center dock was met with a small dose of pomp and circumstance. An acoustic jam session huddled in front of the mini dock store. Families arrived on bikes to check out the boat, then stayed to help lug the 50-pound grain bags up the gangway. And then there were Bailey and Striker, two Belgian horses from Connecticuts Triple T Family Farms pulling a grain-laden cart through the streets of Gowanus while the cargo bike led the way.

Photos: Victor Llorente. Photos: Victor Llorente.

The Apollonia plans to repeat the route every four to six weeks from April through October, potentially longer if the weather cooperates. Its team is working on getting a liquor license to be able to pour drinks made from ingredients transported aboard, and they dream of being able to host larger waterfront markets like those in Thailand and Venice.

Historically, it was a huge moment when a ship came in and everyone came down to the river to see whats on board, says Ezinga. Wed love to get back to that, and every community up and down the Hudson is reinvesting in their waterfront right now. I think people are realizing that when you make a riverfront into a functioning space, its beautiful and people want to hang out there. For now, its all preorders, which will open for the next run soon.

For me, its important to model the small-scale regional idea as a pilot, says Kennedy. Hopefully we can show there are successful alternatives to the current system. Things dont necessarily have to be dropped at your door with a drone.
Honor is expected to unveil its next flagship smartphone series next month, and rumor has it we'll be looking at three smartphones in the family: Honor 50, Honor 50 Pro, and Honor 50 Pro+. One or two of these will get 100W fast wired charging, as already revealed through a past certification, and today the 100W charging brick has leaked in all its glory in the hands-on image you can see below.

It's likely that only the Honor 50 Pro+ will use this specific charger, with the other two models limited to 66W. The 50 and 50 Pro are also said to sport the same chipset, namely the recently unveiled Snapdragon 778G, while the 50 Pro+ will go with Qualcomm's top dog for 2021, the Snapdragon 888. We're hoping that, since Honor is an independent company now, it will also be able to use Google services again, after the split from Huawei (which is still banned by the US government).

A well known and usually reliable leakster out of China claims that this 100W charger will be in the box, and not an optional accessory. So it looks like Honor isn't ready to be 'inspired' by Apple and Samsung removing chargers from retail packages just yet.

Source (in Chinese) | Via
Wharton, TX (77488)

Today

Isolated thunderstorms this morning, then partly cloudy during the afternoon hours. High 92F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Mostly clear. Low 71F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.
The upcoming Sony WF-1000XM4 TWS headset will have active noise cancellation (ANC), not surprising considering that the current XM3 model has it too. The interesting part here is that this feature will be enabled by a custom chip called Sony V1, which will deliver an even more effective ANC, according to WinFuture.

This wont be Sonys first custom chip, of course, but compared to the QN1e found inside the current XM3 buds, this one will add support for high-quality wireless audio transmitted using LDAC. The buds will also be Hi-Res Audio certified.



Sony WF-1000XM4

The battery life will be much improved on the WF-1000XM4 too. The buds alone will be able to last up to 8 hours of music playback with ANC on, up from 6 hours on the previous model. The carrying case and recharge the buds twice, giving a total of 24 hours of playback. If you switch ANC off, you will get 12 hours out of the buds and a total of 36 hours with the case.

The carrying case will be easier to charge too, with Qi wireless charging in addition to the USB-C port. This means you can top up the case with reverse wireless charging, assuming your phone supports it (and the Xperia 1 III does, by the way).



Sony WF-1000XM4

Anyway, the new buds will also have an IPX4 certification, which will make them rain-proof (whereas the XM3 are not). Also, the Precise Voice Pickup feature that significantly improved the in-call audio quality on the over-ear WH-1000XM4 will be present in the TWS headset too.

Sony should be unveiling the WF-1000XM4 soon and it will reportedly stick a 280 price tag on them in Europe (give or take a few euro, depending on where you buy them). This is a bit more than the XM3 model cost at launch, 250.

Source (in German)
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE 5G is official (for real this time) and joining it is the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite, which arrives in Wi-Fi and LTE flavors. The FE model gets 5G connectivity instead.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE 5G

This one falls somewhere between the between the Tab S7+ (12.4 sAMOLED, 120 Hz) and the Tab S7 (11.0 LCD, 120 Hz). It has a 12.4 LCD with 2,560 x 1,600 px (16:10), though it runs at only 60 Hz. At least it comes with Android 11 with One UI 3.1 out of the box.

Speaking of the box, inside youll find an included S Pen, which you can use for note taking and drawing. One UI also supports DeX mode, so you can get a desktop-like experience  the Book Cover Keyboard may come in handy for this, but any Bluetooth keyboard and mouse will do too.



12.4" LCD (60 Hz) with S Pen support (the stylus is included in the box)

Anyway, the S7 FE is powered by the mid-range Snapdragon 750G instead of the S865 chipset of the other two slates. The base configuration is 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB storage, theres also a 6/128 GB model. Either way, you can expand the storage with up to 1 TB extra using the microSD slot.



The optional Book Cover Keyboard is great for DeX  Snapdragon 750G chipset

The tablet has a 10,090 mAh battery, matching the S7+, and supports fast charging up to 45W. But youll need to supply your own charger, you only get a 15W adapter in the box. If you do get a 45W charger, 0-100% will take 90 minutes. Anyway, the battery can endure 12 hours of web browsing over Wi-Fi or 4G (5G is presumably more power hungry).



10,090 mAh battery with 45W charging support (note: 15W charger in the box)  5G connectivity

The tablet has 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0 and GPS (no NFC). The USB-C port is wired for 3.2 Gen 1 speeds. Theres no 3.5 mm headphone jack, but you can use the tablets AKG stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support.

The tablet has an 8 MP camera on the back with autofocus and 4K/30 fps video recording. Theres no ultra wide cam on the back of this model. On the front is a 5 MP cam (fixed focus) that can track your face during a video call to make sure youre always in the center.



A 5 MP front-facing camera that can follow you around  stereo AKG speakers with Dolby Atmos

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE 5G will be available in Europe from Samsung.com, below are the prices. Note that the version in Russia has only LTE connectivity enabled (but otherwise appears to be the same tablet).

Finally, here's an interesting infographic about the Galaxy Tab S7 FE tablet:



Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE infographic

Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite will be available in Wi-Fi only and 4G flavors. In both cases youre looking at a tablet that is both smaller and cheaper than the Galaxy Tab A7 10.4 (2020).

The Lite has an 8.7 LCD with 1,340 x 800 px resolution (15:9). The back cover is made out of metal, but the slate is still fairly light at 366g and measures 8.0 mm thick (note that the LTE version is a few grams heavier).

This model is powered by a Helio P22T chipset (MT8768T), which has eight Cortex-A53 cores and a PowerVR GE8320 GPU. The base configuration has 3 GB of RAM and 32 GB storage, but you can get a 4/64 GB unit if that feels too cramped. In both cases the slate supports microSD cards up to 1 TB.



8.7" LCD on the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite

The tablet has a 5,100 mAh battery. It can be charged over USB-C at 15W, though you dont get one included in the box. Also, note that the USB-C port is wired only for 2.0 speeds, so you wont get display out (so no DeX mode).

Both the Wi-Fi and the 4G versions of the Tab A7 Lite have Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0 and GPS (again, no NFC). While they are not AKG-branded, the slate also has stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support. And this one does have a 3.5 mm headphone jack. The 8 MP camera on the back has autofocus, but the chipset cant keep up with 4K so it tops out at 1080p/30 fps. The front-facing camera has 2 MP resolution (fixed focus), should still be good enough for video calls, though.



8 MP rear cam (AF, 1080p/30) and 2 MP front (FF)  Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite will be available in Europe from Samsung.com starting in mid-June. Note that not all countries are getting the LTE version, prices below:

Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite Wi-Fi LTE Available from Samsung UK 150 180 June 18 Samsung Germany 170 200 June 18 Samsung Spain 170 - May 28 Samsung France June 16 Samsung Netherlands 160 June 18 Samsung Russia RUB 13,000 RUB 17,000 June 10

Source
As the latest phone in Redmis lineup in China, the Note 10 Pro underwent a rough patch of stress tests to prove its durability. Wang Thomas who serves as product head under the Redmi brand shared the short video in which the Note 10 Pro takes a long sequence of abuse and manages to stay intact.

The first obstacle in the Note 10 Pros way is a short drop test on a hard surface. Its followed up by a spin in a centrifuge machine accompanied by some small plastic materials. The phone is then subjected to a series of shots with walnuts, machine drilling followed by a round in a washing machine with some rocks for company.

Cornings Gorilla Glass Victus covers the Redmi Note 10 Pros display and ensures nothing gets in the way. We are also shown how durable and bend-resistant the new aluminosilicate glass is.

Source (in Chinese)




Haiti - Agriculture : Diversion of the Massacre River, in search of a solution with the DR





This Thursday, May 27, Chancellor Claude Joseph and his Dominican counterpart Robeno Alvarez will open a meeting between the two Technical Secretariats of the Haitian-Dominican Joint Commission.



This meeting will make it possible to exchange information on the uses of the waters of the Massacre River and the projects currently underway in its watershed located in the northern zone of the Haitian-Dominican land border. It aims for a way out of the impasse and a happy outcome to the misunderstandings built around the project of construction, by the Haitian Government, of an irrigation canal fed by the Massacre River.



The Haitian Chancellery is very concerned about some bad interpretations of this file in the Dominican media and attempts to violate Haitian territory, in particular by Dominican nationals who are hostile to the project. It also recognizes the right of the two States to assert and defend their respective interests, particularly with regard to the reasonable and equitable use of shared resources.



The interests of the two nations must prevail, without either of the two being affected in their objectives and find a solution which must meet the standards of mutual respect, international law and the agreements signed between the two countries.



Claude Joseph continues to favor existing binational dialogue mechanisms working for the preservation of achievements and the implementation of policies and actions favorable to the harmonization of Haitian-Dominican relations.



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-33596-haiti-flash-conflict-with-the-dr-over-a-canal-diverting-the-massacre-river-to-haiti.html



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Canada : Excellence Scholarships for the Haitian Community of Outaouais





The University of Ottawa offers an Excellence scholarship program for the Haitian community of the Outaouais. This is the "Firmin-Monestine" scholarship which aims to encourage excellence among Canadian citizens of the Haitian Community of Outaouais and among graduates of secondary schools in Mattawa (Ontario).



The objective is to provide financial assistance to Canadian students enrolled at the University of Ottawa and coming from the Haitian community of the Outaouais, or having obtained their high school diploma in Mattawa.



For more information on the "Firmin-Monestine" scholarship visit the University of Ottawa website : https://bourses.uottawa.ca/p/a/18039/



Sholarship details :



Eligibility criteria :





Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident;



Be registered full time at the University of Ottawa;



Demonstrate academic excellence;



Be a member of the Haitian Community of Outaouais

or

having obtained their high school diploma from Elisabeth Bruyere Catholic High School or F.J. McElligott Secondary School, in Mattawa, Ontario;



or having obtained their high school diploma from Elisabeth Bruyere Catholic High School or F.J. McElligott Secondary School, in Mattawa, Ontario; Demonstrate active or future participation in Haitian cultural or socio-community life.



Amount of the scholarship : Variable, depending on the income generated by the fund and at the discretion of the Steering Committee

Number of scholarships : Variable, depending on the income generated by the fund and at the discretion of the Steering Committee

Frequency of the scholarship : Annual

Scholarship level : Undergraduate and graduate



Deadline : October 31, 2021



Application :

The scholarship application must be submitted through Online Scholarships, accessible once logged in at: https://bourses.uottawa.ca and must include :



A copy of the candidate's high school transcript;



An essay (250 to 500 words) demonstrating the candidate's active or future participation in Haitian cultural or socio-community life.



For more information regarding their participation in the community, candidates can if they wish, contact the Haitian Students Club of the University of Ottawa (CEHUO) at the email address : cehuo1804@gmail.com



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - News : Zapping...





Joseph Lambert wants to prevent the referendum

Senator Joseph Lambert denounces the project of the President of the Republic, Jovenel Moise, who wants to endow the country with a new constitution through, according to him, an illegal referendum. The president of the third Senate is asking the people of the Southeast Department to arm themselves with courage in order to prevent the referendum from being held in this department. He promises to thwart this project in every corner of the Southeast department.



PM met Mr. Miroslav Jenca

Arrival Wednesday in Port-au-Prince of Miroslav Jenca, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and the Americas. He is in Haiti to see the progress of the work of the UN in Haiti and to discuss with the authorities and the Haitian people the challenges ahead. Prime Minister a.i spoke that same day with Mr. Miroslav Jenca and reaffirmed the will of the Haitian Government to organize the constitutional referendum of June 27, 2021 and the elections at the end of the year.



OAS : Soon a Mission in Haiti

Permanent Council of the OAS will send a Mission to Haiti to "facilitate a dialogue that would lead to free and fair elections." Delegation will be made up of representatives of Canada, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and the United States.



Meeting between the Consul General of Haiti in Montreal and the Minister Delegate for Health

Thursday, May 20, 2021, the Consul General of Haiti in Montreal, Fritz Dorvilier met by videoconference with the Minister Delegate for Health and Social Services of Quebec, Dr. Lionel Carmant, an eminent son of Haiti and a model of success for the Haitian community of Quebec. The discussion focused on the state of the pandemic situation in Haiti, including the vaccination strategy, the issue of international adoption, as well as the problem of maternal and infant mortality in Haiti.



Sea travel, warning

Do not venture out to sea. US policy has not changed all Haitians, or any other migrant nationality, found at sea by the U.S. Coast Guard should expect to be returned to their country of origin. The seas are dangerous and conditions change rapidly. Too many lives are lost attempting this kind of trip.



Education : everything is ready for the 9AF and NS4 exams

The Ministry of National Education and Vocational Training announces that the official exams will be kept on schedule. They will be held from July 12 to 30. More than 75,000 candidacies have already been validated for the 9th year exams against 14,000 for the NS4, informs the departmental director of western education, Louis Fritz Dorminvil, ensuring that everything is ready for the smooth running of these exams .



Minister Nader Joiseus in Tikita

A delegation of the MTPTC led by Minister Nader Joiseus, visited early, this Wednesday, May 26, the state of progress of the rehabilitation works of the road section linking the communes of the Vallee de Jacmel and Bainet, locality "Tikita", 2nd municipal section Ternier. Minister Joiseus is pleased with the work already carried out at "Tikita", calling on technicians to turn on the turbo as the hurricane season approaches, and on users to be cautious. He took the opportunity to reiterate the MTPTC's commitment to support pop music from the South East.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















By William Schwartz | Published on 2021/05/26

Actor Kim Young-dae was recently confirmed for the upcoming "School 2021" and has also been stated to have a starring role in the television drama. The long-running genre series on KBS has been a stepping stone which was used by many famous celebrities today to improve their profile. Kim Young-dae already has decent name recognition however, thanks to his role in "The Penthouse" where he also plays a student, but not in the leading role.

In "School 2021" Kim Young-dae will play Jung Young Joo, a transfer student who has history with the character played by Kim Yoban, who is to date the only other confirmed cast member. In a statement, Kim Young-dae expressed gratitude for the strange occurence of being allowed this opportunity. Kim Young-dae also promised to do his best to showcase his character's rage and pain, as well as expand himself as an actor.

The twenty-four year old actor got his start in web-dramas, first appearing in such projects as "Just Too Bored" and "OK to Be Sensitive" back in 2018. Ironically, Kim Young-dae got his start playing college-age characters, so the move toward playing a high schooler in the supporting cast of "Extraordinary You" in 2019 was a step backward, despite the role being his big break into mainstream dramas. "School 2021" is expected to be broadcast on television in November this year.

Written by William Schwartz
School district: Actions will have consequences

Havre Public Schools issued a statement this afternoon about a group of Havre seniors vandalizing the high school in a "senior prank."

Havre police this morning said a group of 30 or so seniors gained entry to Havre High School late Monday evening and vandalized the school, with damage at that time estimated at $1,000 to $2,000, although the damage estimate was not yet complete.

The district issued a statement to the community this afternoon, signed by the district administration and staff.

"While it is understood that senior pranks can be fun a way for the graduating class to finish their time in the public school system, what happened that night went way past the boundary of being a harmless prank," the statement said.

"What could have ultimately been a fairly harmless prank (toilet paper and streamers in the hallways), took a horrible turn. These students put many people in potential danger and caused additional work for hardworking individuals at our school," it continued.

The statement said Havre High School administration will be issuing consequences to all involved, potentially including community service and working with the Havre Police Department on potential charges.

"We are saddened that students who make up all facets of Havre High: Honor Society members, Student Council elected officials, athletes and many others chose to represent themselves as they did that night," the statement added.

Watch for more in Thursday's edition of Havre Daily News.
Facebook comments raging on issue

Havre Public Schools issued a statement Wednesday afternoon on an issue - apparently a senior prank gone overboard - that has created a firestorm of Facebook comments on the Havre Daily News Facebook page.

Havre Police Department reported Wednesday that a group of 30 or more Havre High School seniors had entered the school and while they were there a significant amount of vandalism occurred, with the estimated damage Wednesday morning at $1,000 to $2,000.

Havre Public Schools said in its statement that the damage was not a harmless prank and the people involved would face consequences....
Experts recommend a mix of infrastructure upgrades, non-lethal damage mitigation and trapping

A beaver swims in Beaver Creek in 2020. Experts told the Hill County Park Board Rules and Regulation Committee during a meeting Wednesday that trapping is one part of beaver population control, but it should only be one component of a comprehensive management plan and not the sole way to control beaver population and impacts at Beaver Creek Park.

The Hill County Park Board's Rules and Regulations Committee met Wednesday night to discuss beaver management in Beaver Creek Park, a long controversial subject, and local wildlife experts invited to the meeting advocated for a more comprehensive approach to beaver management, not just lethal trapping.

This is the third in a series of meetings meant to evaluate what the Hill County Park Board should do to manage beaver in the park.

The speakers at the meeting were Amy Chadwick, an ecologist working at Great West Engineering, Nathan Korb of The Nature Conservancy and Elissa Chott of the N...
Note: This was provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency has published the first notice of funding availability  NOFA  announcing loan payments for eligible borrowers with qualifying direct farm loans under the American Rescue Plan Act Section 1005.

The official NOFA was published in the Federal Register today, available online at http://federalregister.gov/d/2021-11155, and USDA expects payments to begin in early June and continue on a rolling basis. A subsequent notice, addressing guaranteed loan balances and direct l...
When I moved to Mexico, one of the first things I learned was to check inside my shoes before inserting feet. Evidently that is a popular hiding place, nesting site, attack barricade for scorpions.

Next, I was told, never go barefoot. Not outside. Not inside. Thus, my night sandals live at bedside.

One thing I can tell you for sure, if youve never in your life seen a scorpion, when you first see one, you will know exactly what it is, no doubts. Same as when you first hear a rattlesnake. It must be knowledge imprinted in our genes.

When I bounced out of bed this morning, I slipped m...
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The Greenville Flags project has added hundreds of United States flags and crosses along the median of the Audie Murphy Overpass in downtown Greenville. Each cross carries the name of a Hunt County resident killed during World War I, World II, the Korean War or the Vietnam War.
The Greenville City Council on Tuesday night reversed a decision by the planning and zoning commission that would have denied a zoning change to allow transitional housing project for young men who are too old for the foster-care system.
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St. Joseph, MI (49085)

Today

Cloudy early with peeks of sunshine expected late. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 84F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 61F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.
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(JTA)  Faye Schulman, a Holocaust survivor who lost most of her family to the Nazis but joined a group of partisan fighters and documented their work in photographs, died April 24, The Washington Post reported Saturday. She was 101 years old.

Schulmans photographs often depicted the smiling faces of young partisan fighters, with Schulman at times at the center in a stylish leopard print coat. Michael Berkowitz, a professor of Jewish history at University College London, told the Post that her photos were extremely important in documenting the history of the resistance.

Schulman...
In commemoration of the 76th anniversary of the liberation of the Dachau Concentration Camp by American soldiers, the Simon Wiesenthal Center Archives is highlighting the amazing story of two Native American soldiers who were twin brothers and how one brother helped liberate hundreds of prisoners.

The Freeny brothers entered the U.S. Army in 1940 as combat medics with the 45th Infantry Division. Organized in 1923 as the National Guard for Oklahoma, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico, the Division was activated for federal service in September of 1940. By 1943, when they set sail for the Euro...
(JNS)  With tens of thousands of Israeli families under attack by rocket fire from Hamas in Gaza and required to stay near the safety of the protected rooms within their homes, Colel Chabad, Israels oldest continuously operating charitable organization, has increased home deliveries to support the elderly in need.

While seniors usually get meals at one of 22 soup kitchens around the country, the constant threat of attacks has forced Colel Chabad to temporarily shut these facilities and deliver to homes in some of the hardest-hit areas, including Ashdod, Lod, Dimona, Tzfat and Jerusale...
(JTA) - Charles Grodin, the deadpan Jewish comic actor who starred in such blockbuster films as "The Heartbreak Kid" and the children's movie "Beethoven," died Tuesday at his home in Wilton, Connecticut.

He was 86, and the cause was bone marrow cancer, according to reports.

Grodin was raised in an Orthodox Jewish household in Pittsburgh but became less observant in his adult years, although he and his second wife - in his words, "a nice Jewish girl from Kansas City" - observed holidays at home.

"In Hebrew school," he told J. the Jewish News of Northern California in 2004, "we'd recite the H...
Since the current round of fighting broke out on May 10, Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad had fired nearly 3,500 rockets at Israel, the Israeli military said on May 18. Of those, some 500 have fallen inside Gaza, according to the IDF. Israels Iron Dome defense system intercepted approximately 90 percent of projectiles heading for populated areas in Israel.The barrage continued until a ceasefire came into effect on 21 May.

The following is a compilation of articles from JNS and JTA that covered the 11 days of combat:

 Israel says that it has killed dozens of fighters for Hamas, Isla...
AMSTERDAM (JTA)  Many thousands of people protested against Israel in major European cities over the weekend as the latest Israel-Gaza conflict reached new heights. Several events featuring antisemitic rhetoric and rioting.

In Brussels, London and Vienna dozens of men were filmed at rallies on Saturday shouting in Arabic: Jews, remember Khaybar, the army of Muhammad is returning.

The chant relates to an event in the seventh century when Muslims massacred and expelled Jews from the town of Khaybar, located in modern-day Saudi Arabia. It is widely understood as a battle cry when att...
(JTA)  As the worlds attention has turned to the crisis engulfing Israel and the Palestinian territories, a leading media outlet posted a brand-new job opening.

The New York Times announced Wednesday that it is looking to hire a reporter who will focus on covering Palestinian affairs.

The posting went online just as countless people around the world are wanting to know more about places like the Al-Aqsa Mosque and Sheikh Jarrah, the site of protests and violence over the weekend, and the Gaza Strip, the home of the militant group Hamas, which is currently shooting rockets into Israel...
(JNS)  The Black Lives Matter movement has expressed solidarity with the Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and terrorist groups based in the Gaza Strip.

Black Lives Matter stands in solidarity with Palestinians, the group tweeted. We are a movement committed to ending settler colonialism in all forms and will continue to advocate for Palestinian liberation (always have. And always will be). #freepalestine.

The tweet was endorsed by the BDS movement on Twitter, which tweeted a thank you in response.

Thank you for your solidarity, it said. Fro...
(JTA)  Dozens of American rabbinical students have issued a public letter accusing Israel of apartheid and calling on American Jewish communities to hold Israel accountable for the violent suppression of human rights.

The letter comes as Israel is engaged in an intense exchange of fire with Hamas, the militant group that controls the Gaza Strip, in which nine Israelis and more than 100 Palestinians have died. Israel is facing fierce criticism from progressive politicians and activists for its airstrikes on Gaza in response to Hamas rockets. Alongside the bombing, Israel has been sh...
(JNS)  During his first public speech since the start of the latest escalation of rocket attacks from Gaza and Israeli retaliation, Hamas political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh on Tuesday declared victory over the Jewish state.

The Hamas head said that Israels cancelation of its traditional Jerusalem Day flag march, and the delay of a court ruling over home ownership in eastern Jerusalems Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood, were expressions of this victory, according to Israels Channel 12.

Jerusalem is the central axis of struggle, and we will never abandon it, he sai...
A senior Hamas leader who helped found the Iran-backed terror group in Gaza came out of hiding, saying that while he thinks the recent ceasefire will hold, his organization remains totally committed to replacing Israel with a Palestinian state, Sky News reported Monday.

I think nobody on both sides is looking for escalation, Mahmoud al-Zahar told Sky News Mark Stone, who interviewed the Hamas co-founder in Gaza after top leaders of the terrorist group emerged from hiding following their rocket attack on Jerusalem May 10 that sparked 11 days of fighting, ending with a ceasefi...
A scene from "Everglow" / Courtesy of Myung Films



By Kwak Yeon-soo



Veteran actress Go Doo-shim, nicknamed "the nation's mother" because of her role in the drama series, "Fields of Home," (1980-2002) is returning to the big screen after two years to play the role of a "haenyeo," one of the UNESCO-recognized female divers of Jeju Island.



In the upcoming film, "Everglow," Go will be playing the hot-tempered haenyeo, Jin-ok, who makes a living by harvesting sea life from the ocean. One day, a documentary filmmaker, Kyung-hoon (Ji Hyun-woo), visits her and asks to document her life. Jin-ok, who stubbornly refuses to appear in a documentary, begins to open her mind to him.



On taking the lead role, Go said it felt like fate, because it's a film about haenyeo, who are a key cultural icon of her home of Jeju Island. "I enjoyed a bright moment in my life while shooting this film," she said.



Director So Joon-moon said that he was motivated to make a film about haenyeo after meeting some of the brave diving women on Jeju Island.



"What really inspired me was their courage and delicate strength. They were quite different from the image I had of strong women fighting the rough waves. In fact, they possess sophisticated feminine charms. I hope audiences find out about their authentic and humane sides through our film," he said.



"Everglow" will hit local theaters in June.


Heritage Florida Jewish News is accepting nominations for the 2021 Heritage Human Service Award, which will be presented at the annual meeting of the Jewish Federation of Greater Orlando this summer.

For more than 30 years, individuals who have made major, voluntary contributions of their talent, time, energy and effort to the Central Florida community have been honored with the selection and presentation of this award, said Jeff Gaeser, editor and publisher of the Heritage. Last years recipient was Hank Katzen. Former recipients have included Sarah Stern (2017), Howard Lefkowitz (...
Masked members from the Ezzedine al-Qassam carry a model of a rocket during a rally to commemorate the 27th anniversary of the Islamist movement creation Hamas, at the Nuseirat refugee camp in the Central Gaza Strip on Dec. 12, 2014.

(JNS) - As the truce in Gaza takes hold, Israel and the international community must employ multiple approaches to prevent Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad from once again using a quiet period to rearm themselves, a former Israeli defense official has said.

Col. (res.) Shaul Shay, who served as the deputy head of the National Security Council and is today a senior research fellow at the International Institute for Counter-Terrorism, told JNS on Monday that setting this goal would be a good example of translating military success during the latest escalation.

Until now, the formula in pla...
(JNS)  Israeli Ambassador to the United States Gilad Erdan called out Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.) on Monday after she tweeted a defamatory post against the Jewish state.

On Twitter, she wrote: Al-Aqsa is the 3rd holiest site in Islam, & people praying during the holiest days of the holy month of Ramadan have been beaten, gassed, shot, & killed by Israeli forces. They are denied medics & forced to use prayer mats as stretchers. A place of peace desecrated by violence.

She added that American taxpayer money is being used to commit human-rights violations. Congress must condition...
Staff at Sheba Medical Center in Tel Hashomer show their unity in the face of Israel's troubles.

(ISRAEL21c) - Medical staff at hospitals up and down the country have come together in solidarity to call for peaceful coexistence and cooperation between Jewish and Arab medical personnel during trying times.

Staff at Sheba Medical Center in Tel Hashomer, Rambam Medical Center in Haifa, Galilee Medical Center in Nahariya, and Emek Medical Center in Afula, have all taken part in initiatives to try to promote unity.

At Sheba, the staff which consists of both Jewish and Arab doctors and nurses, came together for a special assembly to stress the importance of solidarity and cooperation in t...
It was a rally of solidarity and unity between Christians and Jews who gathered at Lake Eola Park on Sunday afternoon to show support for Israel. Organizers of the Stand with Israel Rally, Idit Lotringer, director of the Israeli-American Council Orlando and Laurie Cardoza-Moore, president of Proclaiming Justice to the Nations, were thrilled with such short notice about the turnout of more than 200 people who peacefully and enthusiastically showed their support for Israel after a crushing 11 days of war with Hamas and now in a ceasefire agreement. Security was provided by approximately 50 Or...
(JNS) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized to foreign diplomats that the Israel Defense Forces go to great lengths to target its enemies with great precision and to avoid collateral damage.

Speaking to more than 70 diplomatic representatives from several countries, including the United States, the European Union, Russia, China, India, Germany, Austria, Australia, Japan, Brazil, Canada and Italy, the Israeli leader said that Hamas indiscriminately targets everyone.

They murder everyoneany civilian they can get their hands on. They use civilians. They target ci...
Laurie Cardoza-Moore, president of Proclaiming Justice to the Nations, is asking Florida citizens who want Holocaust education in public schools to support the importance of teaching about the Holocaust and the ramifications of antisemitism.

The Florida Department of Education invited PJTN to draft K-12 Holocaust Standards for consideration for adoption. Cardoza-Moores team of Holocaust experts worked diligently for four months to draft Holocaust Standards that address the rising threat of antisemitism. (See Heritage article Laurie Cardoza-Moore: Get Holocaust education into school...
NEW YORK (JTA)  One person was burned when two fireworks were thrown from a car amid an altercation with anti-Zionist protesters in a heavily Jewish New York City business district, according to police.

The fight on Thursday evening came on what appeared to be the final day of the conflict between Hamas and Israel prior to a ceasefire that took effect overnight. Additional videos circulating on social media appeared to show other physical altercations between pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian demonstrators in New York City earlier in the day.

According to the Anti-Defamation League, there h...
(JNS)  The Anti-Defamation League is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of men who assaulted patrons at a Los Angeles restaurant on Tuesday night in what is being looked at as a hate crime.

We are outraged over reports of this anti-Semitic assault and thank the Los Angeles Police Department for investigating the incident as a potential hate crime, said ADL Los Angeles regional director Jeffrey I. Abrams. These acts of hate have no place in our community, and we hope this reward will bring about information that will lead to an arrest or arrests and th...
(Israel Hayom via JNS) - Thousands gathered on Sunday for a pro-Israel rally in New York in response to a series of antisemitic attacks on Israeli and Jewish American communities in the United States in the wake of Israel's "Operation Guardian of the Walls" in the Gaza Strip.

The demonstration, "United Against Antisemitism. United Against Terror. United for Us," took place at Ground Zero and in 14 other cities across the United States, among them Miami, Los Angeles, Orlando, Austin, Denver, Houston and more. It was organized by the Israeli-American Council together with 100 other Jewish com...




By Lee Min-hyung







Kyobo Life Insurance is gaining an edge in its months-long legal fight against alleged accounting fraud  which the insurer has argued was a result of "manipulation" of reports by the firm's financial investors  after the prosecution indicted an accountant from Nexia Samduk Accounting, Tuesday, for writing a "fake valuation report" on the insurer.







In November 2018, Affirma Capital, one of Kyobo's investors, signed a contract with Samduk while exercising its put option against Kyobo Life Insurance Chairman Shin Chang-jae after the insurer failed to go public on an agreed timeline with its investors.







Samduk is suspected of writing fake valuation reports at the request of the client. The prosecution is also known to have investigated whether the report by Samduk was based on a similar one written by Deloitte Anjin.







Prosecutors have already looked into some Deloitte Anjin accountants amid suspicions that they manipulated Kyobo's corporate value following a request from the client, Hong Kong-based Affinity Equity Partners.







Kyobo and Affinity have recently escalated their legal dispute over the issue after prosecutors indicted three Deloitte accountants for alleged collusion with Affinity to distort Kyobo's pre-initial public offering stock price.







The prosecution will face off with the Affinity and Anjin officials in court, June 2.







Beginning this year, Kyobo has stepped up criticism of the questionable ties between Affinity and Anjin, reaffirming its determination to spearhead efforts to end the practice of a client and an accounting firm manipulating a company's valuation.







"The Affinity-led consortium and Affirma Capital exercised the put option against Kyobo's largest shareholder by using fake reports written illegally," an official from the Seoul-based insurer said.







"The credibility of the reports from the accounting firms is seriously tarnished after the prosecution indicted accountants involved in writing them," the official said.






2 dead, over 210 injured in synagogue bleacher collapse In West Bank settlement

By Andrew Lapin

(JTA)  Israeli paramedics said that at least two worshipers had been killed and at least 213 were injured in a bleacher collapse incident at a synagogue in the Judean Israeli settlement of Givat Zeev on Sunday.

The prayer gathering was held to mark the beginning of the Shavuot holiday. Hundreds of haredi Orthodox Jews were congregated at the synagogue in the Israeli settlement northwest of Jerusalem, which was still under construction, a Magen David Adom spokesperson told Israeli media....
(JNS)  Everything about the murder of Israeli teenager Yehuda Guetta shatters the myths and lies that are used by groups like J Street to promote the Palestinian cause. In a fair world, the killing and its aftermath would be an utter public-relations disaster for the Jewish left. But in the real world, things likely will turn out rather differently.

Lets start with the ironic timing. Last week, J Street announced its support for legislation by Rep. Betty McCollum (D-Minn.) to penalize Israel for arresting teenage Palestinian terrorists. But just a few days later, its three Israel...
Smoke rising from the Al-Jalaa tower in Gaza after an Israeli airstrike on the building, which housed Hamas operatives and several media outlets, including the "Associated Press" and "Al Jazeera," May 15, 2021.

(JNS) - Journalists are expressing their outrage that the 12-story Al-Jalaa building housing the Gaza headquarters of Associated Press and Al Jazeera was targeted during retaliatory Israeli airstrikes on Saturday.

Al Jazeera Jerusalem bureau chief Walid al-Omari said that by striking the building, Israel was acting "not only to sow destruction and killing, but also to silence those who broadcast it."

Not exactly an objective assessment.

AP CEO Gary Pruitt released a statement expressing that the world's largest news syndication service was "shocked and horrified" by the strike.

Meanw...
As Hamas creates a war crime with every rocket it fires into Israel solely for the purpose of killing civilians, a biased media, along with supposedly creditable human rights organizations, BDS backers, Students for Justice in Palestine and naive progressives including many progressive Jews, are accusing Israel of provoking the current breakout of hostilities by another false accusation of Israeli apartheid of Arabs

This latest provocation, according to these purveyors of false accusations against Israel is the alleged attempt to arbitrarily evict four Arab families from a small neighborho...
(JNS)  So tell me, what should Israel do? You, who march through the streets of Italy, the U.K. or Germany with Palestinian flags and shout slogans accusing Israel of crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing, as well as being an apartheid state.

You, who defend Hamas in Paris, Berlin, London and Rome, hurling countless accusations against Israel on social media, including demented conspiracy theories that suggest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the diabolical Prince of Evil, started the current war  in agreement with Hamas  in order to stay in power.

You, who  as...
For the first few days after Hamas started raining thousands of rockets on Israel  all of them aimed at civilians  Biden kept silent. Finally, on Wednesday, Biden said my expectation and hope is that this will be closing down sooner than later but Israel has a right to defend itself when you have thousands of rockets flying into your territory. Saying this ought to have been a no-brainer, but it was obviously an effort on Bidens part.

Biden instantly caught flak from the Squad. Even though, thanks to the influx of Ethiopian Jews, there are more Blacks in Israel than there are...
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Xi sees huge potential in ties with EU

(China Daily) 13:27, May 27, 2021

A China-Europe freight train carrying medical supplies bound for Madrid of Spain departs from the city of Yiwu, East China's Zhejiang province, on June 5, 2020. [Photo/Xinhua]

President has telephone talks with leaders of Spain, Montenegro, Nepal

President Xi Jinping has underlined the importance of adhering to the general direction of relations between China and the European Union from a strategic perspective and appropriately managing their differences, as opportunities as well as challenges are envisaged for their ties in the future.

Xi told Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez during a phone conversation on Wednesday that he hoped the Spanish government would continue to play its constructive role in promoting the steady and lasting development of China-EU relations.

Despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, huge potential has been revealed from pragmatic cooperation between China and the EU, Xi said, noting that the basic idea of China-EU ties that feature cooperation based on win-win results should be maintained.

China stands ready to expand two-way trade exchanges with Spain, promote cooperative projects in areas such as port logistics and smart cities, strengthen third-party market cooperation in Latin America and Africa, and deepen bilateral people-to-people exchanges, he said.

Xi also stressed strengthening political party exchanges and the sharing of governance experience between the two countries, which would further improve global governance.

Sanchez said that it is more necessary than ever for all countries to unite and cooperate and safeguard multilateralism in the face of severe challenges brought by the pandemic.

Spain welcomes investment from Chinese companies and will continue to play a positive role in pushing forward the development of the EU-China strategic partnership, Sanchez said.

Also on Wednesday, Xi had a phone conversation with Milo Djukanovic, the president of Montenegro, saying that China will work with the country to implement the consensus and outcome of a summit held via video link in February between China and Central and Eastern European Countries.

As this year was designated as the China-CEEC Year of Green Development and Environmental Protection, China supports Montenegro playing a positive role in leading this mechanism, he said.

Xi said that, faced with changes unseen in a century and the pandemic, China is willing to work with Montenegro to consolidate political mutual trust, deepen pragmatic cooperation in all areas including infrastructure, and promote the continuous development of bilateral ties, benefiting the people of both countries.

Djukanovic said that the joint building of the Belt and Road Initiative and the CEEC-China cooperation mechanism have brought important opportunities and tangible benefits to countries in the region including Montenegro.

His country will continue to actively participate in and firmly promote the in-depth development of CEEC-China cooperation and steadfastly uphold multilateralism, he said.

In a phone call on Wednesday with Nepalese President Bidhya Devi Bhandari, Xi said that China will continue to provide as much support as possible for Nepal's fight against the pandemic as the South Asian region faces a devastating second wave of COVID-19.

On Tuesday, Nepal reported 8,387 new cases of coronavirus infection and 169 deaths across the country.

Xi said that the Chinese central government, local authorities and nongovernmental organizations have quickly acted and provided medical supplies, equipment and vaccines that are urgently needed by Nepal and shared prevention and treatment experience with the country.

Xi said that he believed the Nepalese people will surely defeat the pandemic at an early date.

As this year marks the 50th anniversary of the restoration of China's legitimate rights at the United Nations, Xi said that China would not forget the precious support from Nepal and will, as always, support Nepal in maintaining its national sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity.

Bhandari hailed the great achievements that China has made in economic and social development under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, especially in poverty eradication and space exploration.

Her country is committed to the one-China policy and will never allow any forces to conduct anti-China activities on Nepalese soil, she said.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
Hanon Systems factory in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi Province / Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul



LG still seen as most probable buyer of auto parts supplier



By Park Jae-hyuk



SK Group, which has been mentioned as a potential bidder for Hanon Systems, is in focus as observers wonder if the conglomerate will gain the upper hand over another probable bidder, LG Group. SK has close ties to the auto parts supplier's key stakeholders  Hanon's owner Hahn & Company and Ford, a major customer.



Hahn & Co., a private equity firm (PEF) that holds a 50.5 percent stake in Hanon, recently had the underwriters of the deal  Morgan Stanley and Evercore  send an sales memorandum to potential buyers here and overseas for the preliminary bid to take place in June. Given that Hanon's market capitalization exceeds 8 trillion won ($7 billion), a source familiar with the issue said the memorandum was sent only to the "big players," including foreign automotive component manufacturers.



While LG, SK and Halla Group, which established Hanon's predecessor Halla Climate Control (HCC), are said to have received the memorandum, Hankook Tire & Technology, which owns a 19.49 percent stake in Hanon as its second-largest shareholder, will stay out of the bid as the tiremaker plans to unload its holdings next month by using its tag-along right.



At this moment, LG is considered as the most probable buyer, because of the conglomerate's continuous efforts to reinforce its automotive businesses as the group is rapidly reshaping its revenue streams focusing on vehicle batteries and automotive components. Hanon had acquired Magna's Fluid Pressure & Controls business in 2019. Considering LG's decision to create a joint venture with Magna, the partnership can be seen as a favorable factor for it to win the bid.



SK, however, may turn the tables as it's been maintaining a solid relationship with Hahn & Co. through multiple sizable deals. The conglomerate and the PEF had signed a 205 billion won contract in 2017 for the latter's acquisition of a 50.1 percent stake in SK Encar, a used car retailer rebranded as K Car. A year later, Hahn & Co. acquired a combined 27.5 percent stake in SK D&D, a real estate developer, for 230 billion won from SK Discovery Vice Chairman Chey Chang-won and SK Gas. It also spent 1.5 trillion won on the acquisition of SK Shipping a month later.



Last year, Hahn & Co. signed an agreement to take over SK Chemicals' bioenergy business for 382.5 billion won. The bioenergy firm, which produces and sells biodiesel and bio-heavy fuel oil, was rebranded as SK Eco Prime.



After witnessing the close relationship between the conglomerate and the PEF, market observers expect their cooperation to continue when there is any large-scale deals involving one of them. The observers said Hahn & Co. helped SK avoid antitrust regulations and SK helped Hahn & Co. pursue "bolt-on" acquisitions, which refer to acquisitions of smaller companies in the same line of business.



Also, the announcement of a joint venture being created by Ford and SK Innovation, called "BlueOvalSK," is cited as another significant factor. Ford, the second-largest customer of Hanon after Hyundai Motor Group (HMG), had jointly established Hanon's predecessor, HCC, in 1986 with Mando Machinery, which was a Halla affiliate at that time.



After Halla sold its entire stake to Ford's subsidiary, Visteon, during the 1998 Asian financial crisis, the U.S. carmaker integrated its thermal system businesses into Halla Visteon Climate Control (HVCC) and sold it to a consortium of Hahn & Co. and Hankook Tire in 2015. Hanon CEO Sung Min-suk also built his automotive industry career at Ford, Visteon and HVCC.



But there are some possibilities that a foreign company could acquire Hanon as some believe the company is "attractive enough" to Volkswagen and General Motors, both of which lack superior thermal management system companies in their countries. They mentioned global carmakers, battery makers and big companies in China and India as candidates, but a Chinese company's acquisition may cause a backlash from HMG, the largest buyer of Hanon's products.



Industry sources said German auto parts maker Continental and several foreign PEFs, including KKR, TPG, Bain Capital and the Carlyle Group, are also interested in the deal.




British Prime Minister Boris Johnson wanted to get injected with COVID-19 on live television to prove that there was "nothing to be frightened of" mere weeks before it nearly killed him, according to his controversial former chief adviser's testimony on Wednesday. Dominic Cummings stated that in February 2020, the Prime Minister regarded this as just a scare story.

Cummings was a key force behind Brexit and Johnson's 2019 election victory. He conceded the government's decision to postpone lockdown at the beginning of the pandemic had resulted in "carnage." He appeared before a parliamentary inquiry into UK's response to the crisis and remarked that senior ministers and staff had fallen remarkably short.

Cummings Files Charges Against Johnson, Other Officials

The former aide has leveled charges of chaos, confusion, delay, and deceit against officials, ministers, and his former boss over their overseeing of the novel coronavirus pandemic in 2020. In a fierce attack amid a seven-hour parliamentary committee appearance on Wednesday, he questioned Johnson's capabilities as a leader and branded him "unfit for the job," media-obsessed, and hinders "serious planning," reported Financial Review.

The PM became infected with COVID-19 relatively early in the pandemic. He tested positive in late March last year and was admitted to intensive care, reported Insider.

Read Also: 18 Cases of Heart Inflammation After COVID-19 Vaccination, Typically Begins 4 Days After the 2nd Dose of the Pfizer, Moderna Vaccines

Curmmings remarked the PM thought the infection was like "swine flu." He suggested that Johnson had considered being injected with COVID-19 by chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty. He said, "The view of various officials inside No 10 was - if we have the Prime Minister chairing Cobra meetings and he just tells everyone 'it's swine flu, don't worry about it, I'm going to get Chris Whitty to inject me live on TV with coronavirus so everyone realises it's nothing to be frightened of' - that would not help actually serious planning," reported The National.

The former No 10 aide is expected to focus his attention on the reason behind the prime minister dragging his feet on a second lockdown which could have saved numerous lives. Cummings will reportedly claim Johnson insisted he would not repeat what he saw as his mistake amid the initial lockdown when he was pressured over the probable collapse of the National Health Service.

Cummings also claimed that Johnson referred to COVID-19 as "Kung-Flu." He also accused the PM of postponing a second lockdown when the second wave of COVID-19 hit Britain in the winter.

He referred to Cabinet Office Briefing Room meetings wherein he claimed Johnson downplayed COVID-19. The meetings are convened to tackle national emergency matters.

Cummings also caught the virus early in the pandemic. It ignited calls for his resignation following his getting caught driving 250 miles across the UK while infected, despite a nationwide quarantine order.

By May 25, 127,739 people in Britain had died. These were within 28 days of testing positive for COVID-19.

Related Article: H5N8 Bird Flu Strain Poses Possibility of Another Pandemic, But Researchers Say There Is Still Opportunity to Prevent Them

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President Joe Biden on Wednesday stated he had directed the United States intelligence community to exert more efforts in probing into the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. He expects them to report back to him in 90 days. The declaration comes after a US intelligence report discovered numerous researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China falling ill in November 2019. They had to be hospitalized. It serves as a new detail that fueled further debate regarding the origins of the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Biden revealed that previously this 2021, he ordered the intelligence community to prepare a report on their most recent evaluation of the origins of COVID-19. The president's statement mirrors the unique way that the intelligence community conveys its findings to sitting presidents, reported CNBC.

US Intelligence Community Puts Forward Two Like Scenarios

Questions grow whether the novel coronavirus resulted from an accident in a Chinese laboratory or was transmitted through other means. The intelligence community has been divided over the issue. According to Biden's statement, they have "coalesced around two likely scenarios."

Two elements of the community lean toward the possibility that the coronavirus surfaced from human contact with an infected animal and the possibility of a laboratory accident. Their evaluations are executed with moderate or low confidence.

The President stated, "As of today, the US intelligence community has 'coalesced around two likely scenarios' but has not reached a definitive conclusion on this question." White House principal deputy press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre would not publicly disclose the findings of a future report, reported NBC News.

Read Also: 18 Cases of Heart Inflammation After COVID-19 Vaccination, Typically Begins 4 Days After the 2nd Dose of the Pfizer, Moderna Vaccines

The White House has been pressured to conduct its own probe after China told the World Health Organization (WHO) that it regarded Beijing's part of the investigation complete. It called for efforts to detect the virus's origins to shift into other nations. According to Biden in a statement, "While two elements in the IC lean toward the former scenario and one leans more toward the latter-each with low or moderate confidence-the majority of elements do not believe there is sufficient information to assess one to be more likely than the other," reported The Wall Street Journal.

In late 2019, COVID-19 reportedly first emerged in Wuhan, China. It has become prevalent across the globe. According to Johns Hopkins, nearly 3.5 million fatalities have been recorded, and confirmed cases amount to almost 168 million. Much remains to be known regarding its origins. China has been sensitive regarding any suggestion it could have exerted more efforts in the early stages of the outbreak to stop it.

According to White House deputy press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, it will require much effort from the government, national labs, and other agencies to probe into COVID-19 origins. US officials underscored for months that a lack of contribution from the government in Beijing hinders outside efforts to probe into the origins of COVID-19.

Related Article: H5N8 Bird Flu Strain Poses Possibility of Another Pandemic, But Researchers Say There Is Still Opportunity to Prevent Them

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A Louisiana alligator that got washed up on the Malaquite Beach on the Padre Island National Seashore in Corpus Christi last Monday puzzled park rangers on how it got to Texas.

According to the park rangers who found the unusual visitor, the alligator must have floated from the Mexican Gulf. The alligator has a foot tag, and its tail is notched, said the officials about the displaced reptile.

Usually, the patrol would encounter turtles on the Padre Island National Seashore, noted the National Park Service (NPS).

Kelly Taylor, Padre Island National Seashore Public Information Officer, spoke to CNN last Wednesday, "We're presuming it was swept out in one of Louisiana's flooding storms." She added, "It had a much of algae found on its back, that makes us think it had been drifting in the Gulf for a while."

She explained that alligators spend more time basking in the sun, which usually keeps the algae away, hinting how this reptile was in the water for quite some time.

No one knows what caused the alligator to have been found far out to sea. Louisiana has experienced several episodes of heavy rain in the last two months that have led to hazardous flash flooding in the area.

The National Weather Service said that Lake Charles experienced more than 12 inches of rain a week ago, the third most for a single day in the city's history and much more rain than during either of the hurricanes in 2020. Several days of severe weather struck the state in April, particularly New Orleans experienced near-record rainfall.

The park administration released a picture of the reptile last Tuesday, saying the alligator's length indicates that it's not too mature. The Louisiana alligator that got washed up is relatively young because of its size.

Read also: Brood X Cicada Migration Season Can Make Some Individual Very Anxious

American alligators are one of the largest reptiles in North America, reaching 13 feet in length when matured, said the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

The National Wildlife Federation indicated this species is usually seen in the coastal swamps of the US Southeast, much further north as North Carolina, even as far west as eastern Texas.

One description of this reptile by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration website is that alligators are not accustomed to saltwater but can stay in salty environments for a few hours or days. Most live in freshwater habitats like swampy areas, rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds

Since it is usually in freshwater, Taylor added the animal would be dehydrated after exposure to seawater. It was given fluids as a precaution.

The NPS remarked that the Padre Island National Seashore, located in South Texas, is the world's longest stretch of a pristine barrier island. It links the Gulf of Mexico with Laguna Madre, one of the world's few hypersaline lagoons.

Taylor mentioned that the alligator is in good condition although not in its element. Treatment is given and will be evaluated in a local rehabilitation center.

Sea turtles are the reptiles that the park deals with mainly. Hundreds of individuals visit these places each year to watch the hatchlings make their way out to the Gulf of Mexico. So, the Louisiana alligator that got washed up was an unusual surprise.

Related article: Chicago Sets Loose 1,000 Feral Cats to Control Increasing Rat Infestation

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Following the latest mass shooting in a Northern California rail yard on Wednesday, President Joe Biden urged Congress to implement tighter gun control legislation. Authorities say a public transportation employee opened fire on coworkers at the downtown San Jose rail yard on Wednesday, killing eight people before killing himself.

The shooting comes after a year of rising gun violence and record gun sales throughout the country. According to law enforcement authorities, the shooter was identified as Samuel Cassidy, a Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority employee.

In his first joint address to lawmakers in April, Biden called on Congress to take action on gun control, including banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines and addressing background check loopholes. At the time, Biden stated, "This shouldn't be a red or blue issue," NBC News reported.

Legislators, on the other hand, appear to be at odds about enacting meaningful reforms. He reiterated that appeal in his statement on Wednesday.

In a statement, Biden said, "I have the solemn obligation of ordering the flag to be lowered at half-staff once again. Just weeks after doing so following the mass killings at spas in and around Atlanta; a grocery store in Boulder, Colorado; a residence in Rock Hill, South Carolina; and a FedEx plant in Indianapolis, Indiana."

Per The Hill, Joe Biden expressed his desire for Congress to "take prompt action and heed the cry of the American people, including the vast majority of gun owners, to help end this epidemic of gun violence in America" in a subsequent statement.

Vice President Kamala Harris described the incident as "extremely sad" while addressing reporters at an event on broadband infrastructure. Harris, who was born in Oakland, California, lives in San Jose with her family.

Authorities say eight people were killed in a shooting at a rail yard in the city on Wednesday morning. According to Deputy Russell Davis of the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office, employees of the Valley Transportation Authority, where the incident occurred, were among the victims.

Around 6:30 a.m. PDT, a shooting occurred at a light rail station near the sheriff's department and the local airport. The building serves as a transit control center, as well as a train storage and maintenance yard.

The incident in San Jose is the most recent mass shooting in recent months. Multiple people have been killed in shootings near Atlanta, Boulder, Colorado, and Indianapolis. Biden has called for Congress to implement tighter gun laws in the wake of the shootings, but there has been little movement on legislation.

Read Also: Joe Biden Faces Pressure Over Border Expulsions as Measure Endangers Public Health; UN Urges to End Title 42 Restrictions

Biden's ATF nominee faces GOP scrutiny on gun control support

Senate Republicans grilled President Joe Biden's nomination to lead the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms (ATF) and Explosives on Wednesday about previous statements he made while working for significant gun control groups. Before retiring from the ATF in 2012, David Chipman spoke before the Senate Judiciary Committee, along with three other Biden Justice Department nominees, in an effort by the Democratic-controlled committee to speed up the confirmation process.

Chipman's nomination has sparked strong Republican opposition, but GOP senators are unlikely to be able to stop him from being confirmed. Chipman is "hostile to our rights and way of life," according to 20 Republican state attorneys general who wrote to the committee, urging Congress to reject his nomination, The Washington Examiner reported.

The session took place just after news of a tragic mass shooting in San Jose surfaced. Senators questioned Chipman on his support for the 1994 "assault weapons" ban, disarming school resource officers, and the ability of private citizens to own a handgun, among other topics.

The nominee emphasized that his political views on firearms would not prevent him from enforcing existing laws. But Republican lawmakers were not convinced.

Senator Mike Lee of Utah, a Republican, questioned Chipman about earlier statements on whether law enforcement officers should scrutinize those who have previously failed background checks as possible violent offenders. Chipman claimed that a comment he made on Reddit in 2019 was taken out of context. He was only referring to persons who don't disclose their criminal status on federal gun forms after committing a felony.

Republican lawmakers jumped on Chipman's remarks to question him about the president's son, Hunter Biden. Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton and Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley demanded that Chipman commits to looking into Hunter Biden's recent admission that he was using hard drugs while purchasing a firearm from a dealer. According to sources, when asked if he was an unlawful user of or addicted to any substance, he answered "no" on the federal guns background check form.

Related Article: Much Reduced Biden Infrastructure Bill Meets Rejection as Democrats and Republicans Continue To Disagree

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According to Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, the Prime Minister of Qatar, the Gulf state will contribute $500 million for the restoration of the damage incurred during the recent hostilities between Israel and Hamas.

Engagement between the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) and Palestinian Hamas started on May 10. The Hamas fired rockets at Askelon, and this prompted retaliation from Israel as it defended itself from the unprovoked attack, reported Al Jazeera.

For now, the ceasefire will allow infrastructure to be rebuilt until the next conflict in this never-ending cycle of hostilities in the coastal territory.

#GAZA #Qatar to provide $500m to help rebuild Gaza, the foreign minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani said on Wednesday, following a ceasefire that ended the worst fighting in years between #Israel & #Palestinian militants. pic.twitter.com/kp0cuESUIc  Children of Peace (@ChildrenofPeace) May 26, 2021

Sheik Abdulrahman Al Thani Tweeted the Gulf State's commitment, "Qatar commits to $500 million in assistance for Gaza reconstruction."

The sheik added, "We will aim to support our Palestinian brothers in establishing a state in order to accomplish a just and lasting solution."

Qatar frequently serves as a go-between for Israel and Hamas, or the Palestinian militant organization that has controlled Gaza since 2007.

Before this, Qatar has been actively giving funds in millions of dollars for humanitarian and development aid in between ceasefires to support the Gaza inhabitants.

Read also: SSN-21 Sea Wolf-class: American-Made Soviet Typhoon ICBM Hunters

The QNA news agency cited that the funds are for Gaza residents, who are most affected by these periodic conflicts. They are also the ones who are affected by Israeli retaliation that comes after hostile actions by Islamic militants. Part of the money is for the reconstruction of service facilities in Gaza and homes destroyed in the conflicts, cited Gulf News.

How the recent conflict started

This is the worst retaliatory action that Israel and armed Palestinian groups in the enclave started when Israeli forces sought to quell the protestors in Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, one of the holiest sites in the Islamic world and equally important for the Jews as the Temple Mount.

The fighting lasted about 11 days. The IDF launched aerial strikes and heavy artillery fire on the Gaza strip that resulted in 254 Palestinian casualties, including 66 children, and wounded more than 1,900 people, said the health ministry in Gaza.

The Hamas caused the deaths of 12 people and two children as they aimed rockets fired from civilian areas in Gaza, said the medics. As many as 357 Israelis were not lucky as they became intentional targets of Islamic militants.

There is a diplomatic effort to help a fragile Egypt-brokered truce to keep the hostilities from flaring up again on the sidelines. Plans to rebuild the Gaza strip after heavy fighting left the whole area in shambles with debris everywhere. All infrastructure was affected, with buildings being leveled by the heightened conflict before the ceasefire.

A week ago, Cairo sent word also of $500 million funds to help the affected Palestinians living with the Israeli blockade for more than 13 years.

Qatar said it would pledge $500 million as the Egyptian brokered ceasefire must hold to allow the rebuilding of the Strip.

Related article: Iron Dome Stops Hamas Rockets and Shields Israel from Repeated Barrages



Fatima Shbair/Getty Images

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A testing lab company called Valisure is sounding the alarm over a carcinogen detected in common sun care products. This week, the lab sent off a petition to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warning that it has found potentially unsafe levels of a chemical called benzene in dozens of sunscreens and after-sun care lotions it tested.

It is now calling for the FDA to recall these products and investigate the possible contamination. The Connecticut-based lab is an independent testing facility that focuses on ensuring the safety of the products it tests, including those sold through its pharmacy.

It informed the FDA in 2018 that it had detected a probable cancer-causing compound known as NDMA in medications containing the active ingredient ranitidine, such as Zantac, an over-the-counter heartburn medication. Their statements were eventually proven correct, and the FDA and other regulatory organizations across the world have now mandated ranitidine drug recalls.

Valisure contacted the FDA again in March after discovering benzene levels in hand sanitizers, which resulted in a voluntary recall of several products. The lab is now saying the same for various sunscreens and after-sun care products, such as sunburn lotions.

The test discovered benzene in 78 of nearly 300 brands supplied by 69 companies, sometimes in considerably higher doses than the FDA allows conditionally. "The presence of this known human carcinogen in sunscreen products widely recommended for the prevention of skin cancer and regularly used in large quantities by adults and children makes this finding very troubling," the company stated in a May 24 citizen petition to the FDA. The petition also contains the list of potentially contaminated products.

Read Also: Thyroid Medicine Gets Third Major Recall Over Lack of Potency, Severely Affects 43 People

What is benzene found in sunscreen?

At room temperature, benzene is a colorless or slightly yellowish flammable liquid that occurs naturally in the environment and is also used as a solvent in plastics and other products. However, it is acutely hazardous in high amounts. It is generally known that long-term exposure can increase a person's risk of cancer, especially when it is present in cigarette smoke.

Benzene may potentially increase the risk of blood cancers such as leukemia. The FDA does not allow the purposeful addition of benzene to pharmaceuticals or consumer products it regulates. Still, it does set a safety threshold of 2 parts per million for its presence if it is unavoidable.

On the other hand, Sunscreens are not currently recognized by the FDA as a potential source of benzene. Valisure claimed to have found benzene at levels higher than two ppm in some samples.

"In sunscreen products, there is no such thing as a safe quantity of benzene," said Christopher Bunick, MD, Ph.D., associate professor of dermatology at Yale University in New Haven, as per Med Page Today.

Because most sunscreens the firm tested did not contain benzene, the company claimed that the health agency should not allow any amount of benzene. In a statement made by Valisure, Christopher Bunick, an associate professor of dermatology at Yale University, said, "There is no safe level of benzene that can occur in sunscreen lotions. Benzene at 0.1 ppm in a sunscreen could expose people to dangerously high nanogram levels of benzene," Gizmodo reported.

The findings are alarming in light of recent data from the FDA that sunscreen ingredients can be rapidly absorbed through the skin, maybe in higher quantities than expected. Scientists have yet to assess whether this poses a risk to anyone, but it is still more reason why the FDA should act quickly, said the business.

Valisure's petition requests that the FDA recall the benzene-contaminated items and conduct an inquiry. The lab also wants the FDA to rethink how it regulates these products, which is a timely request given that the agency is currently working on the next iteration of its sunscreen regulations. For those who use sunscreen daily, Valisure has offered a list of sunscreen products that don't appear to contain benzene, as well as recommendations on how to dispose of goods that may contain benzene, which is a risk to marine life.

Related Article: Ivermectin To Undergo COVID-19 Drug Trial in the University of Minnesota as Online Interest Surges

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In the last two weeks, about 2 million more stimulus payments have been sent out by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), part of the American Rescue Plan COVID relief bill signed last March. Last Wednesday, the IRS informed that the disbursement would include almost 1 million "plus-up" payments, reported KHOU.

The American Rescue Plan provides a maximum of $1,400 stimulus checks to individuals who earned up to $75,000 in 2020. Couples filing jointly and earning up to $150,000 will receive $2,800.

But, all individuals with a total income of up to $80,000 and pairs earning up to $160,000 are entitled to nothing. Every dependent in the household gets a $1,400 benefit.

President Joe Biden signed the legislation last March 11, and the 1.8 million payouts sent to beneficiaries on Wednesday are the most recent batches of checks to be released. The IRS stated that the batch included approximately 900,000 payments for individuals who did not get anything from the agency as it did not have sufficient data to send the funds.

According to the IRS, more than 900,000 "plus-up" payments totaling over $1.6 billion were sent out in this batch. Because they made more money on their 2019 tax returns, some individuals might not be eligible for the payments.

Read also: Joe Biden's $3 Trillion Package to Come Next After Stimulus Bill

But, many who lost jobs and income during 2020 will be entitled to federal support. Once these people are done filling their 2020 returns, including a notification that they lost significant earnings and have dependents, they can get the payments.

Approximately 900,000 payments were sent via direct deposits that went into their bank accounts. Those with no direct deposit accounts will be getting a paper check being mailed to them.

According to the IRS, 167 million payments worth $391 billion had already been. Many more anticipate receiving theirs in the coming weeks because the tax filing deadline of May 17 has expired.

The IRS is reminding those who have not yet gotten a stimulus payment but do not usually file taxes that they can file a 2020 tax return to receive their check or any tax credits they may be qualified for.

Essential details about getting your stimulus checks

One requirement stressed for you to get stimulus money is to file tax returns, cited CNBC. Many of those who have not filed their tax returns are the homeless and rural poor.

Social Security Administration recently issued an announcement urging recipients who skipped out after the first $1,200 or second $600 payments to apply for the recovery rebate credit.

The process of filing a tax return does assist the administration in evaluating whether you are eligible for additional stimulus money. Still, it could also help in deciding whether anyone is qualified for other tax credits like the earned income tax credit or the child tax credit.

Check the IRS website on how to claim the next round of $1,400 stimulus checks if no tax return has been filed.

Related article: House Democrats Want Fourth Stimulus Checks and More Until Economy Recovers

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In a surprising development, the Biden administration supported a proposed ConocoPhillips oil development in Alaska last Wednesday. Alaskan Sen. Lisa Murkowski also gave her thumbs up to the project, reported the Politico.

Considering Interior Secretary Deb Haaland's objection to the project the year before when she was a member of Congress, the Interior Department has chose to protect the Trump administration's October 2020 ruling in court and permitted the Willow project at the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska to continue, noted the BLM government.

The NPR-A region along Alaska's North slope, separate from the Alaska National Wildlife Refuge, has already been producing oil for years. On his first day in office, President Joe Biden issued a moratorium on drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, effectively stopping the Trump administration's intentions to approve oil exploration.

Willow project, which is comprised of five wells with a total capacity of 160,000 barrels of crude per day, will be one of Alaska's first large new oil projects in years. The Alaska oil drilling project that Bidens supported would be the first new gravel mine, airfield, over 570 miles of ice roads, and nearly 320 miles of pipeline.

Read Also: South Dakota Governor Scours Biden's Termination of Keystone Pipeline; Dangerous to US Energy Policy

In a court filing in conjunction with the United States District Court of the District of Alaska, the Justice Department justified the Trump-era proposal to support the development versus environmental advocacy groups' allegations that the Interior failed to adequately evaluate the development's effects on the environment.

Meeting with Biden in the Oval Office last Monday, Alaska Republican Senators Dan Sullivan and Lisa Murkowski addressed the project. Sullivan said he left behind project details, and Biden agreed to reach him soon.

This Wednesday, Sullivan informed POLITICO of the development. According to the New York Times, "I openly talked with the president about the Willow project." "I informed him, 'This wasn't controversial until you guys put an end to it."

Murkowski said that her meeting with Biden administration officials has been very productive" ever since the meeting, a term she repeated three times for emphasis.

The Alaskan senator said she informed Biden about the plan and also that the Alaska lawmakers had briefed "almost everyone in your Cabinet and any senior adviser who is willing listen." Reuters confirmed this.

In a court filing on Wednesday, the administration said that some of those contesting the authorization were "cherry-picking the documents" of federal agencies involved in the decision-making process and that their "claim should be dismissed."

Government lawyers said that agencies evaluated Willow Project's impacts that included alternative proposed water crossings and other problems like infrastructure to deal with. Counsel for the government added that all the information was complete.

The administration's legal efforts are especially noteworthy. After all, Haaland co-signed a letter in May 2020 with four House Democratic colleagues demanding the Trump administration to "stop any further action" on the project because it might be bad for the environment.

Related article: Sen. Kennedy on Biden's Energy Policy: Anti- American, Destroys U.S. Energy Independence

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In text messages sent to people in two states, a New Mexico man threatened to kill President Joe Biden and others. John Benjamin Thornton is accused of sending a threat to harm another person using interstate commerce communications.

In a criminal complaint, incoherent texts reportedly from Thornton included claims that he was taking command of a revolutionary army called the [sic] 3%ers, an apparent reference to the anti-government Three Percenters group. According to the lawsuit, Thornton texted: "5 stars after I execute Joe Biden for Treason," referring to himself as a revolutionary war general.

In the complaint document, FBI investigators did not specify who received the text messages or whether they had any prior connection to Thornton. Doa Ana County Jail records indicate the New Mexico man is being held without bond and has not been given an attorney as of Wednesday afternoon.

The messages reportedly suggest that a Canadian computer corporation was employing a device to "Tunnel into the Brainwaves of All Methamphetamine Users Brainwaves, globally," said the criminal complaint. Thornton allegedly threatened to "shotgun execute every single one of them" at the company in text conversations, as well as saying, "My former wife is a traitor and my new government is likely to be executed her," CBS58 reported.

The messages were sent from a phone, which Thornton held that included a photo of him, the FBI claimed. Since November 11, 2020, multiple people have filed complaints against Thornton, alleging they have received unpleasant or threatening texts.

"I'm killing them for superconductive quantum tunneling into the brainwaves of methamphetamine users," the rant continued, as per KOB4. Thornton would "start the revolution," according to another message.

He'll appear in a Las Cruces courthouse for a detention hearing on Friday.

Other posts discuss assassinating President Biden and conspiracy theories surrounding the computer company he threatened. However, the criminal complaint makes no mention of the Facebook posts, according to the court documents.

The FBI arrested Thornton on May 24. He is being held without bond in the Doa Ana County Jail. Thornton's arrest follows a series of security threats directed at the president, including one in which a guy threatened to kidnap both Vice President Kamala Harris and Biden.

Read Also: Joe Biden Pushes Congress to Move in the Wake of San Jose Mass Shooting; Calls for End of 'Epidemic Gun Violence'

Joe Biden receives death threats in recent months

In recent months, numerous other threats have been made against President Joe Biden. David Kyle Reeves, a North Carolina man, made similar threats in February 2021. "Reeves contacted the White House switchboard many times via telephone and made threats against President Biden and others," as per a criminal complaint against him.

MEAWW reported in March 2021 that a Michigan man named Joshua Docter had threatened to shoot Biden and Nancy Pelosi. Docter was accused of threatening to kill the officials and be the catalyst for a new American revolution by shooting and killing them. Later, Docter was charged with terrorism. When they were the Democratic nominees, a Maryland man was charged with threatening Joe Biden and his running mate, now-Vice President Kamala Harris, in October.

Related Article: George Floyd's Death Anniversary: Family Meets With Joe Biden, Kamala Harris as Congress Considers Police Bill

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LG headquarters on Yeouido in Seoul / Yonhap



By Anna J. Park



On the trading day that LX holdings made its debut on the main benchmark KOSPI after spinning off from LG Corp., shares of both firms dropped sharply to the dismay of their shareholders.



LG Corp., the holding company of LG Group, saw its share price plunge by 9.21 percent to finish at 108,500 won ($97) at the closing of Thursday's session, while LX Holdings also fell by 5.14 percent, closing at 12,000 won.



Since the start-off, LX Holdings once rose as high as 14,300 won at 9:44 a.m. (KST), yet it continued to fall, despite fluctuations, until the price ended at 12,000 won. LG Corp.'s stock plunge was much more severe than LX's, as the price began to fall sharply just within a few minutes since the start of the trading, hitting as low as 107,500 won at around 10:56 a.m., and hovered at around similar prices during the rest of the trading session.



As of the closing price, LG's market cap stood at 17.6 trillion won, while LX Holdings hit 915 billion won, lower than the respective forecasts of 19.9 trillion won and 1.9 trillion won expected by market experts prior to the listings. Thus, Thursday's price actions were taken as somewhat of a surprise, as some market analysts expected the two stocks wouldn't face much negative volatility from the spinoff, given the shares' solid valuation calculated in consideration of the split effect.



However, market watchers remain positive that both stocks have room for upward moves, with expectations for their future strategic directions on cash dividends and efficient investment. An LX company official also stressed that the company's synergy-creating strategic business strategies will maximize the holdings company's market value in the medium and long term.



"While we put communication with the market as the foremost priority, the company will work on creating synergy effects among the five units' new growth engines and business innovations," an official from LX Holdings told The Korea Times.



"As opposed to LG maintaining a focus on the global electronics and energy sector, LX has a wide spectrum of business portfolios, ranging from chemical manufacturing, construction materials, semiconductor technology to logistics, all which enjoy a global presence and competitiveness," she explained, adding that the different set of global business models will create synergized strength in their cooperation in business strategies for creating new growth models.



In hopes of efficiently focusing on main business areas, such as electronics, chemistry and secondary batteries, LG decided to separate some of its affiliates last November. LX Holdings was officially launched in May, with five units of LG International, LG Hausys, LG MMA, Silicon Works and Pantos Logistics.



Despite previous opposition to the spinoff by U.S.-based hedge fund Whitebox, which holds about 1 percent of LG Corporation shares, about 76 percent of shareholders of the holdings company voted in favor of the firm's spinoff plan to create LX Holdings during the annual shareholders' meeting held in March.


Theres something about Mary and Marjorie that worries me




By Jun Ji-hye







Six Hyatt hotels in Korea have recently launched the "Hybrid and Wellness Meeting" package to help elevate the online and offline meeting experiences of guests amid the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic.







The Hyatt hotels focus on hosting meetings that are different from traditional ones as they emphasize four key concepts: professional care and safety; communication through seamless and streamlined technology platforms; creative and excellent food and beverage service; and a well-being program.







Hyatt International introduced the GBAC (Global Biorisk Advisory Council) STAR accreditation in 2020, which is supported in practice by the Global Care & Cleanliness Commitment to sanitation during the pandemic.







GBAC STAR is a performance-based accreditation program that helps facilities demonstrate that they have the work practices, procedures and protocols to prepare, respond and recover from outbreaks and pandemics.







Hyatt hotels in Korea  all GBAC STAR-certified  are well-equipped with cleanliness and safety protocols as well as professional hygiene experts.







They provide various meeting venues of different sizes that can accommodate from 15 to more than 50 people.







With a variety of venues, planners can easily accommodate a meeting of any size in accordance with the government's social distancing guidelines, as well as host online and offline hybrid meetings with seamless and streamlined technology platforms.







With a strong reputation for food and beverage service, Hyatt hotels are evolving their culinary offerings to amplify an already exceptional experience by focusing on food customization using local, seasonal and organic ingredients.







The hotels also offer take-away boxes for guests who cannot have meals on-site, featuring a variety of options such as Korean, Japanese, Western and finger foods. They also host coffee breaks carefully by serving individually packed snacks.







The six Korea-based Hyatt hotels also offer wellness programs for their attendees. There are two options: one focusing on stretching and easing the mind and body, and the other offering mind relaxation techniques that can enhance concentration, by guiding people through meditation with breathing techniques and music.


Copyright  2021 at Sun Newspapers. Digital dissemination of this content without prior written consent is a violation of federal law and may be subject to legal action.
President Moon Jae-in and U.S. President Joe Biden hold a press conference at the White House in Washington, D.C., Friday (local time), after their summit. Yonhap



By Kang Seung-woo



North Korea has kept quiet on the results of last week's summit between South Korea and the United States, despite Washington's publicized commitment to diplomatic engagement with Pyongyang.



Diplomatic observers said, Thursday, the Kim Jong-un regime will decide on whether to accept a U.S. dialogue call in accordance with how China responds to the summit. Also, they suggested keeping close tabs on the South Korean spy agency chief's trip to the U.S.



On May 21 (local time), President Moon Jae-in and his U.S. counterpart Joe Biden held their first in-person summit at the White House and agreed to engage diplomatically with the North to work toward denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. They also reaffirmed their commitment to previous inter-Korean and U.S.-North Korea agreements  the Panmunjeom Declaration and Singapore Joint Statement, both signed in 2018.



In addition, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated earlier this week the Biden administration's commitment to diplomacy to achieve the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, saying, "The ball's in their court."



"The outcomes of the summit are not a deciding factor for North Korea's future plans with regard to nuclear negotiations. Rather, it is waiting for China's reaction to the summit," said Park Won-gon, a professor of North Korean studies at Ewha Womans University.






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Reopening

27 May 2021

Jumeirah Group, the global luxury hospitality company, will welcome guests for a much-needed change of scenery from May 27th until October 17th 2021 to its exquisite Italian hotel, Capri Palace Jumeirah.

Having enjoyed a successful summer last year for the first time as a Jumeirah hotel, guests are invited once again to this idyllic coastal sanctuary where contemporary art and design are surrounded by nature on the glamorous island of Capri, which was recently declared 'COVID-free'.

Ideally placed in the bustling town of Anacapri - one of the most exclusive and unspoiled parts of the island - the hotel stands high up on a hill overlooking the Gulf of Naples. A perfect embodiment of the Italian Dolce Vita, Capri Palace Jumeirah is designed in the style of an eighteenth-century Neapolitan palazzo. The elegantly appointed 68 hotel rooms feature white, blue and neutral tones, while ceramic tiles and bespoke furniture evoke the sense of an Italian family home, exuding a sense of familiarity with the surrounding locale.

In line with Jumeirah's commitment to offering exceptional culinary experiences, Capri Palace Jumeirah is home to renowned restaurants including two of the island's Michelin stars, guided by Executive Chef Andrea Migliaccio. The hotel's signature restaurant L'Olivo, awarded with two Michelin stars, serves up exceptional Mediterranean gourmet dishes with an extensive beverage list. Meanwhile, Il Riccio Restaurant & Beach Club offers some of the best local seafood on the island and is set against sweeping views of the rocky coastline. Named after the sea urchins that the restaurant is renowned for, the coveted venue will be open for lunch and dinner, led by returning Resident Chef Salvatore Elefante.
Pipeline

27 May 2021

Driftwood Capital, a vertically integrated commercial real estate investment, development and lending platform specializing in hospitality, announces that it has begun construction on the $31 million conversion of an 11-story office building into a brand new Staybridge Suites hotel in downtown Wilmington, Delaware. The property, which will consist of 134 suite-style rooms with a contemporary look and feel, is expected to open to the public in the second quarter of 2022.

The project team includes Whiting-Turner Contractor Co. and Dever Architects. Driftwood Hospitality Management (DHM), a national hotel operator with over 20 years of expertise, will manage the property. The Delaware State Housing Authority will contribute up to $1,020,000 towards the project through its Downtown Development Districts ("DDD") Rebate Program.

First International Bank & Trust provided a construction and permanent loan for the project of up to $14,950,000. This is the second construction and permanent loan the bank has placed with Driftwood Capital; the bank also provided financing for Driftwood to develop the Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown, in Tempe, Ariz., which opened in 2020.

Driftwood Capital acquired the property at 1220 N. Market Street in March of 2019. Its location in a designated Opportunity Zone, combined with Wilmington's long-term economic outlook, contributed to the firm's decision to develop a hotel on the property. Driftwood Capital continues to raise capital through a QOF associated with this development.

Investment in a property or business through a Qualified Opportunity Fund (QOF) allows investors to defer paying capital gains rolled into the fund for up to nine years, with tax on capital gains eliminated altogether if the investment is held for at least 10 years.

In addition to the 134 all-suites rooms, the new hotel will include a lobby lounge, fitness center, sundries shop and a business center with meeting space.
Now Open

27 May 2021

Cambria Hotels, an upscale brand franchised by Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH), made its official debut in Ocean City, Maryland yesterday afternoon with the grand opening of the Cambria Hotel Ocean City - Bayfront. The celebration was marked with the unveiling of the city's newest boardwalk, a taste of the cuisine from the hotel's restaurant and bar, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Ocean City Mayor Richard W. Meehan, members of the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, and executives from Choice Hotels and development companies, PiNNacle Hospitality Group and The Wankawala Organization. A $1,000 donation to Ocean City Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation, a grassroots non-profit environmental organization that works to protect and preserve the world's oceans, waves and beaches, was also presented at the event as a token of the brand's support and appreciation to the local community.

Located at 13 Saint Louis Ave., in Ocean City, the hotel is just steps from the boardwalk and the Inlet, which are home to a variety of summer concerts and special events. Guests can also walk to two classic beachside amusement parks and many shopping options along the shore, and can easily drive to other attractions like the Outlets Ocean City shopping center, Splash Mountain Water Park and Northside Park. The hotel's central location also provides easy access to Ocean City Town Skatepark, as well as some of the area's most popular restaurants.

The hotel features upscale amenities and approachable indulgences that appeal to modern travelers, including:

Multi-purpose indoor and outdoor spaces for productive work or relaxation, including a rooftop bar with panoramic bay views, indoor heated pool and hot tub, seasonal outdoor pool, and outdoor recreational area with fire pits and yard games.

Locally inspired design decor, reflecting the unique personality of the surrounding community.

Contemporary and sophisticated guestrooms, complete with design forward fixtures, abundant lighting, plush bedding and private balconies, all of which overlook the Isle of Wight Bay and its sunset views.

Immersive, spa-style bathrooms with Bluetooth mirrors.

Onsite dining at The View at Croppers Landing with freshly made food, local craft beer, wine and specialty cocktails, now also including to-go options. In addition, the hotel will feature Spain, a rooftop Spanish wine bar and tapas restaurant, opening in June.

More than 2,400 square feet of multi-function meeting and event space.

State-of-the-art fitness center with waterfront views.

All Choice-branded hotels are participating in Commitment to Clean, an initiative that builds upon the strong foundation of franchisees' long-standing dedication to cleanliness with enhanced training and best practices for deep cleaning, disinfecting and social distancing. Additionally, Cambria guests can limit their interactions with hotel staff by using the Cambria Contactless Concierge Service, a text messaging service for housekeeping requests, to-go food orders, meeting room requests and more.

The eight-story, 137-room Cambria Hotel Ocean City - Bayfront is the brand's fourth property in Maryland, including Cambria hotels in Arundel Mills, College Park and Rockville. The property was developed by Tauhid Islam of PiNNacle Hospitality Group and Mihir Wankawala of The Wankawala Organization.
A medical worker takes test samples for COVID-19 at a makeshift testing center near Seoul Station, May 27. Yonhap



South Korea's new daily coronavirus cases fell back below 700 again Thursday, but the country is grappling with sporadic cluster infections amid the rising number of travelers enjoying warm weather.



The country reported 629 more COVID-19 cases, including 620 local infections, raising the total caseload to 138,311, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) said.



Daily cases reached a two-week high of 707 the previous day, rising from 516 tallied Tuesday.



There were three additional virus deaths, raising the total to 1,943. The fatality rate came to 1.4 percent.



Daily caseloads have been stuck in a tight range since late March with no significant signs of a letup, going through some ups and downs between the 400s and 700s.



Currently, the greater Seoul area, home to more than half of the country's 52 million people, is under Level 2 social distancing, the third highest in the five-tier scheme, while the rest of the country is mostly subject to Level 1.5 distancing.



With South Korea seeking to flatten the curve through mass vaccinations, the country will offer a set of benefits to those who have been inoculated.



Among others, those who have received their first jabs will be allowed to take their masks off outdoors starting in July. Those who are fully vaccinated will not be subject to the restrictions on their use of gyms, other facilities and religious gatherings.



The country's vaccination rollout has been sluggish compared to global peers.



The country has completed the inoculation of 2.01 million people, or 3.9 percent of the country's 52-million population.



A total of 4.03 million people, or 7.8 percent, have received their first shots, up 87,165 from the previous day.



AstraZeneca's vaccine has been given to 2.07 million people, while 1.96 million have received that of Pfizer.



Under the country's vaccination blueprint, the country aims to inoculate 13 million people by the end of June and achieve herd immunity by November.



Of the locally transmitted cases, 216 came from Seoul and 168 from the surrounding Gyeonggi Province.



Incheon, 40 kilometers west of Seoul, reported 30 more patients, and the southern resort island of Jeju added 26 more.



Imported cases came to nine, raising the total to 8,975.



It marked the first time for the figure to fall below 10 in seven months.



The number of patients in serious or critical condition came to 154, up three from the previous day.



The total number of people released from quarantine after making full recoveries was 128,180, up 606 from a day earlier. Around 92.7 percent of the COVID-19 patients reported here have been cured.



South Korea has carried out 9,665,693 COVID-19 tests so far, including 36,235 from the previous day. (Yonhap)


Now Open

27 May 2021

Pendry Hotels & Resorts today announced the opening of Pendry Chicago. Located in the heart of the Loop neighborhood, Pendry Chicago is a reimagination of the iconic 1920s-era Carbide & Carbon Building, a true American Art Deco landmark. Pendry Chicago delivers 364 newly redesigned guestrooms and suites; completely renovated and reinvigorated public spaces including the hotel's signature modern French brasserie and cafe, Venteux; the intimate Bar Pendry; The Billiard Gallery, and a summer rooftop bar, set 24 stories above Michigan Avenue to debut June 25 as Chateau Carbide, a day-to-night experience delivering the lifestyle of the Cote d'Azur with a very Chicago spin. The hotel offers 13,000 square feet of diverse meetings and event space, a state-of- the-art fitness center, and a curated art collection featuring works from both world-renowned and local Chicago artists.

Located near a dynamic collection of cultural attractions, corporate headquarters, and alongside Chicago's famed River Walk and the Magnificent Mile, Pendry Chicago is the ideal home base to explore the city. The Burnham Brothers- designed Carbide & Carbon Building, famed for its unique Champagne bottle design is composed of luxurious polished black granite, green and gold Terracotta with bronze trim, topped off with an ornate cap of 24-karat gold leaf.

Steeped in history and anchored in style, the complete reimagination of the building's public spaces was led by Alessandro Munge and the award-winning design collective, Studio Munge. In a bold signature statement, a dynamic black-and-white striped floor leads arriving guests to the luminescent reception parlor, adorned with works by Amsterdam based artist, Arnout Meijer. The artwork features an ongoing exploration of perception and light, elegantly and playfully contrasting the classic details of the lobby that pays homage to both the past and present.
Event

The Asia Pacific is far more than just China; from Australia to Korea, Bangladesh to New Zealand, the highest-end suppliers, buyers and media in the new world of APAC luxury travel gather to create exciting new itineraries, do business and build lifelong bonds.

Four days of high-quality pre-scheduled appointments, educational sessions, networking, parties and invaluable exposure sum up the ILTM experience in Singapore. This is a calendar appointment not to be missed. Live deliberately. Live diversely.

ILTM Asia Pacific is organized by Reed
Press Release

27 May 2021

UNWTO is recognizing villages across the world that are committed to the promotion and preservation of their cultural heritage and sustainable development through tourism

New initiative announced at the opening of UNWTO Middle East regional office in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

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The search is on for the best examples of rural villages harnessing the power of tourism to provide opportunity and safeguard their communities, local traditions and heritage. The initiative of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) will identify villages taking innovative and transformative approaches to tourism in rural areas in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

With the vision of making tourism a positive force for transformation, rural development and community wellbeing, Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO aims to maximise the contribution of the sector to reducing regional inequalities and fighting against rural depopulation. It also seeks to advance the role of tourism in valuing and safeguarding rural villages along with their associated landscapes, knowledge systems, biological and cultural diversity, local values and activities, including gastronomy.

The launch of the Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO initiative takes place on the occasion of the opening of UNWTOs first Regional Office in the Middle East (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia), underscoring the focus of the Office on, among other issues, the role of tourism in rural development.

Celebrating tourism as a driver of rural development and wellbeing

Tourism can be a driver of positive change for rural communities all around the world, said UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili. We want to recognize the uniqueness of each village and showcase the best initiatives to make tourism a means for a better future in rural areas. As we restart tourism, we work to ensure that we leave no one - and no village- behind.

At the opening of the UNWTO Regional office in Riyadh, His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Saudi Arabias Minister for Tourism, said: We are proud to be a partner of UNWTO as they launch this important initiative. For our rural communities, tourism is an opportunity to share their vibrant culture, amazing food and famous Saudi hospitality, while benefitting from the socio-economic opportunities provided by the sector.

The initiative includes three pillars:

1. The Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO Label: The Label will recognize a village which is an outstanding example of a rural tourism destination with recognized cultural and natural assets, that preserves and promotes rural and community-based values, products and lifestyle and has a clear commitment to innovation and sustainability in all its aspects  economic, social and environmental.

2. The Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO Upgrade Programme: The Upgrade programme will benefit a number of villages that do not fully meet the Label criteria. These villages will receive support from UNWTO and its Partners in improving elements of the areas identified as gaps in the evaluation process.

3. The Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO Network: The Network will provide a space for exchanging experiences and good practices, learnings, and opportunities. It will include representatives of the villages awarded the Best Tourism Village by UNWTO Label, the villages participating in the Upgrade Programme, as well as experts, public and private sector partners engaged in the promotion of tourism for rural development.

UNWTO Members States can present up to three villages to be assessed by the Initiative. Applications will close on 31 July 2021. The selected villages will be announced in October 2021, on the occasion of the 24 session of the UNWTO General Assembly (Marrakesh, Morocco, 12-15 October 2021).
Press Release

27 May 2021

Destination: Unexpected

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Sure, the bright lights and buzz of New York, Berlin, and Mexico City burn bright in our hearts and imaginations. But if theres anything these times have taught us, its to look in new places for hidden treasuresto broaden our horizons, and in some cases even look closer to homeand to explore some lesser tread trails. Just dont call them second cities; they are first rate in our books.

www.designhotels.com/destination-unexpected

Photo: Design Hotels

Photo: Design Hotels

A tour of the unexpected begins with a stop in the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius. Set in the heart of the Old Town, Hotel Pacai is the culmination of a passion project by a team of local architects and designersand a veritable display of this countrys roots. Next, to Lower Saxony where, in a charming town renowned for academia, Freigeist Hotel Gottingen creates a heaven for cultural vibrancy. The new-build property is well placed for this years opening of the Forum Wissen, the future knowledge museum at the University of Gottingen. Should southern Italy beckon, Palazzo Daniele is ready to welcome as only the Italians do. The knockout nine-room restored palazzo is a utopia of fresh handmade pastas, exceptional wines, and fully integrated functional art installations.

Photo: Design Hotels

Photo: Design Hotels

Jumping across the Atlantic takes us to the hip hangout of Austin Proper Hotel. Towering over the Seaholm District, Kelly Wearstlers signature layering of textures aptly embraces Austins eclecticism. Staying in the sun, The Tuxons poolside summer vibes are undeniable. Located at the base of Sentinel Peak, and a stones throw from the excitement of Downtown Tucson, this Desert Modernist gem is a springboard to adventure. A last stop in La Paz, Mexico, means entering the warm sophistication Grupo Habita has mastered with their 13th project, Baja Club. This beautifully reborn 1910 mission-style hacienda is balanced by a new five-story extension, a chic pool area with a spa, and a rooftop bar.

Photo: Design Hotels
Press Release

27 May 2021

Centara Hotels & Resorts, Thailands leading hotel operator, confirms all eligible Centara staff working in its Phuket hotels and resorts have been fully vaccinated in preparation of the arrival of international travellers in July 2021.

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Under Thailands Tourism Sandbox scheme, the kingdom is gearing up to welcome fully vaccinated travellers from around the world without requiring quarantine on arrival. Thailands island province of Phuket is spearheading the programme, reopening safely to international tourists on 1st July 2021, when at least 70 percent of the host provinces population has been inoculated.

The vaccination drive also highlights Centaras commitment to employee welfare and belief that by looking after staff like family members, they in turn will take care of guests like one of their own. In addition to training and development programmes, the group also provided COVID-19 insurance to all staff members last year.

The safety of our staff and our guests remains a top priority for us, and for Thailands tourism recovery. By ensuring all eligible staff working in our Phuket properties are inoculated, and bolstered by the comprehensive Centara Complete Care programme that remains strictly in place across our hotels and resorts, we can confidently and safely welcome international travellers to Phuket, and to Centara, the Place to Be, said Thirayuth Chirathivat, CEO of Centara Hotels & Resorts.

The certified health and hygiene procedures covered under Centara Complete Care include daily temperature checking of all staff before they start work every day, social distancing measures, increased sanitation, and appropriate protective masks and face shields for all service staff.

In anticipation of the quarantine-free travel, Centara Hotels & Resorts is inviting travellers to experience Thailands quintessential island getaway with a choice of short- and long-stay stay offers at its resorts, which range from all-pool-villa beachfront hideaways to family-friendly beachfront retreats with waterpark.

For more information, please contact the Centara reservation centre at [email protected], at +66(0) 2101 1234 or via live chat, or visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com.
Press Release

27 May 2021

The worst crisis to have hit the tourism industry and in the history of the RIU hotel chain has not put the brakes on the companys social commitment to its allies from the third sector. From 2020 to the present day, RIU Hotels has dedicated 1,593,017 euros to social investment as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility strategy, a department led by the CEO, Carmen Riu, whose work is focused on supporting health and development programmes in the local communities near the companys hotels.

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At the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020, the hotel chain was forced to close all of its hotels, a situation that, at first, completely paralysed the companys activity and put the goals RIU had set for 2020 on hold. Nonetheless, the companys social work did not stop. As a first step, hotels in RIU destinations took the initiative to distribute over 500 tonnes of medical supplies and food in their local area. Thanks to their ability to respond, agility and coordination, donations were made in countries such as Aruba, Jamaica, Mexico, the Bahamas, Costa Rica, Panama, the United States, Cape Verde, Ireland, Sri Lanka, the Maldives and, of course, Spain.

In terms of CSR, it pledged to not leave its allies behind and maintained projects that could not be stopped. This is the case of the childrens chemotherapy unit at the Cancun hospital managed by the Aitana Foundation, where RIU pays for all the medication, or the biodiversity project with the NGO Oceanus, which aims to plant 1,000 nurseries in the Mexican Caribbean. It has also upheld its commitment to Spanish associations that it has worked with for many years, such as Pequeno Valiente in the Canary Islands formed by the families of children affected by cancer, or the hospital clowns from Sonrisa Medica in Mallorca.

With the unconditional support of its partners in the third sector and based on its social innovation methodology  the RIU Method the social impact of COVID-19 was analysed in the destinations where the company operates its hotels. The information obtained confirmed the importance of its projects related to health and wellbeing, such as the programme at the Artola clinic in Costa Rica, which is funded by RIU and has provided healthcare to more than 964 children aged between 0 and 14, with a satisfaction rate of 90%.

Nonetheless, the pandemic has also created new social needs, especially in terms of nutrition and education. In this respect, RIU has placed its bets on care projects that have had a positive impact on the local communities where the companys hotels are located. This is the case of the project led by the local foundation Des-Bem and the Spanish NGO Africa Avanza that, with the support of the hotel chain, has coordinated the donation of more than 23,000 meals for 2,319 vulnerable people in Cape Verde.

In Spain, with the increase of the social divide caused by the economic consequences of COVID-19, RIU CSR has focused on families at risk of social exclusion. Alongside Save the Children, Red Cross and Ayuda en Accion, technology resources have been provided to favour social e-inclusion and financial transfers have been made to purchase food and basic items for the most disadvantaged groups.

Currently, with 65 of its 100 hotels open throughout the world and the recovery of the sector on the horizon, RIU CSR hopes to resume the pace it lost due to the pandemic in the short term. This will not be easy, but the hotel chain will do so based on how quickly it achieves profitable results that allow it to expand the scope of its social investment. Until this occurs, RIUs efforts will focus on project continuity and, above all, on assessing their impact to define the social return on investment and contribute towards social change.
Press Release

27 May 2021

Phoenix, Arizona  WorldHotels Collection premiers refreshed branding including new logos and updated vision and mission statements. The brand refresh comes at an exciting time in the companys history as the soft brand celebrates its 50th anniversary this year under the theme A WORLD Reimagined.

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Our 50th anniversary is a significant milestone, providing us with the ideal opportunity to lean into the resources at BWH Hotel Group and reimagine luxury hotel experiences, comments David Kong, Global President and Chief Executive Officer. WorldHotels has always been at the forefront of innovation, and this year we recognized a need to adapt our branding to align with the evolving digital and media landscape. I am thrilled to celebrate our 50th anniversary with the premier of our refreshed branding, which will play a critical role in helping the brand and our hoteliers maintain a competitive edge, especially as we emerge from the pandemic.

The brand invested in extensive research to gain a greater understanding of the luxury and lifestyle traveler and what motivates them now. WorldHotels interviewed key stakeholders, conducted a global member survey, and identified the best way to evolve the brand. The refresh is designed to enhance WorldHotels brand storytelling and ensure each WorldHotels collection has its own identity and personality. This is achieved with the following changes:

Refreshed Masterbrand logo : WorldHotels focused the refresh on reinforce the well-known logo and enhancing it to deliver a modern twist. This is achieved through a bolder font for WorldHotels.

: WorldHotels focused the refresh on reinforce the well-known logo and enhancing it to deliver a modern twist. This is achieved through a bolder font for WorldHotels. New Collection logos : These logos are where WorldHotels truly wanted to change and give each collection its own identity and personality. WorldHotels now offers four wonderful collections to suit the needs of todays traveler  Luxury, Elite, Distinctive and Crafted. WorldHotels is committed to building a stronger soft brand that appeals to luxury and lifestyle travelers while attracting the very best hotels for its global collections. As such, the brand logo refresh is giving each collection brand its own identity through distinctive color palettes, fonts and signature collection border patterns. This will help clarify each collection while also enabling travelers to quickly identify the style of the hotel.

: These logos are where WorldHotels truly wanted to change and give each collection its own identity and personality. WorldHotels now offers four wonderful collections to suit the needs of todays traveler  Luxury, Elite, Distinctive and Crafted. WorldHotels is committed to building a stronger soft brand that appeals to luxury and lifestyle travelers while attracting the very best hotels for its global collections. As such, the brand logo refresh is giving each collection brand its own identity through distinctive color palettes, fonts and signature collection border patterns. This will help clarify each collection while also enabling travelers to quickly identify the style of the hotel. Updated Vision and Mission Statements that reflect the evolving culture and DNA of WorldHotels:

that reflect the evolving culture and DNA of WorldHotels: Vision Statement: To be the most trusted and intuitive partner with access to essential and extensive resources for a discerning global family of the finest curated independent hotels and resorts.

Mission Statement: To be stronger together by empowering our community of hoteliers, travel partners and guests with expertise, passion and collective goals to inspire unique, life enriching experiences that connect people and places.

The refresh is not just about launching logos, but it is about evolving the brands identity with enhanced messaging, colors, layouts, and more, added Gregory Habeeb, President, North America. With these changes, we will gain new visibility and attention and modernize the companys soft brand, all while playing in the ever-changing digital and media world. It is the perfect way to honor our 50+ years of excellence as we celebrate our A WORLD Reimagined 50th anniversary this year.

Under the new branding, WorldHotels will leverage its 50+ years of industry leadership and expertise, coupled with the unparalleled support and backing of BWH Hotel Group, to achieve even greater success in the years to come. WorldHotels will continue its focus on driving superior revenue to its hoteliers, expanding its portfolio of offerings in premier global destinations and providing exceptional travel experiences to its guests.

Learn more about WorldHotels:www.worldhotels.com.
Press Release

27 May 2021

Tanya Venegas, MBA, MHM, CHIA and Sanjay Nadkarni, Ph.D. have been selected as the 2021 Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) Paragon Award recipients for their excellent direction of the HFTP Research Centers and their impactful tutelage over hospitality students and HFTP student members. Venegas is Global Head of Customer Success for HotStats, Inc., but had previously served as director/executive director of the HFTP Americas Research Center at the University of Houston from 2002  2018. Nadkarni is Director of Innovation and Research at The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management and oversees the HFTP Middle East Research Center, established in 2016. Venegas and Nadkarni will be honored on October 20, 2021 during HFTPs Annual Business Meeting, held virtually.

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It is truly an honor to be nominated by my HFTP family and colleagues in the industry and chosen as the recipient of the 2021 HFTP Paragon Award, said Venegas.

Venegas started as a teaching assistant working for the University of Houston in 2002. She was assigned to the HFTP Research Center which was founded as part of HFTPs initiative to provide the hospitality industry with the highest quality resources and research. Upon graduating with a Masters degree, she was the obvious choice for the new executive director position and worked there for more than 15 years. In her time at the HFTP Americas Research Center, Tanya helped individual HFTP members by answering hundreds of questions. In addition, she has overseen multiple research projects commissioned by HFTP leadership. From the beginning she led the biennial HFTP Compensation and Benefits Survey, tracking salary and benefit trends with each report. Tanya helped build and maintain the Global Hospitality Accounting Common Practices (GHACP), a searchable database of detailed operating financial reporting practices. And finally, she was a primary contributor to HFTP publications, writing in-depth articles, blog posts and research reports on hot topics and trends.

Tanya is also a volunteer and has been a mentor, and a role model for the University of Houston HFTP Student Cougar Chapter. Her mentoring has helped the Cougs win the HFTP Student Chapter of the Year Award many times. In addition, she has been an integral part of the Greater Houston Chapter having served both on the board and as a president of the chapter.

In 2021, she took on the position of Director of Customer Success, for the hotel financial analytics firm HotStats, which was establishing a presence in the United States. She has recently been promoted to the position of Global Head of Customer Success, HotStats.

I am privileged to have been chosen for the Paragon Award. If there is one key takeaway from these difficult times, it is the significance of being digitally versatile, says Nadkarni. I am delighted to have had the opportunity to contribute in bringing the benefits of digital agility and transformation to hospitality. The award is a testimony that academics, too, can add value to this incredible industry, and I am grateful to HFTP for being part of this story.

Nadkarni has been essential to HFTPs growing presence in the Middle East, including an active Research Center based at the Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management. He also has worked tirelessly to help develop programming for HITEC Dubai and HFTPs E20X technology start-up competition.

Nadkarnis domain interests are in the convergence space of analytics, digital and sustainability in the services sector. His portfolio comprises of academic and applied research, advisory and consultancy assignments for corporate, government and multilateral agencies, in addition to his pedagogic practice which includes visiting professorships at premier academic institutions in Asia and Europe. He is also a verified Dubai Futures Research Contributor. Nadkarni's focus is on developing and co-creating applied research and capacity building practices that have a tangible impact on the industry. He is passionate about leveraging Industry 4.0 and democratizing data science to benefit small and micro-businesses and enjoys mentoring in social entrepreneurship.

Established in 1999, the prestigious HFTP Paragon Award recognizes individuals each year who have made a significant and lasting contribution to both HFTP and the hospitality industry. Paragon Award nominees can be HFTP members; representatives of industry-related associations, societies or trade publications; leaders from hospitality businesses, educational institutions and other related disciplines. A panel of industry experts selects the award recipients who are traditionally recognized at HFTP's Annual Convention each October.

Previous Paragon Award winners include: Alice Banks, CHAE (1999); Henry "Buddy" Weeks, CHAE (1999); Frank Santos, CHAE, CHA (2000); Katherine Cavanagh, CHAE (2001); Raymond Schmidgall, PH.D., CPA, CHAE (2002); Frank Wolfe, CAE (2002); Len Bartello, CPA, CHAE, CHTP (2003); John J. Cahill, CHA, CHTP (2004); Wendy Zurstadt, CPA, CHAE, CHTP (2005); Richard Braa, CHAE (2006); Robert Patasnick, CPA (2007); George Glazer (2008); Agnes DeFranco, Ed.D., CHAE (2009); Stephen LeBruto, CPA, CHAE, Ed.D. (2009); and Steve Doherty, CHAE, CHTP (2010); Frank Agnello Jr., CMA, CHAE (2011); Howard Field, FBHA, FCA (2012); Joseph McInerney, CHA (2013); Evelyn Adams (2014); Ralph R. Miller, CPA, CA, CBV, CHA, CHAE (2015); Raman (R. P.) Rama B. Com, CHA Emeritus, CHTP, CHAE (2016); Kris S. Shoemaker, CMA, CGFO, CHAE, CHTP, CPFIM (2016); Mary Gerdts (2017); Anna McFarland, CPA, CFE, CHAE, CHTP (2018); Thomas Smith, CHAE (2019); and Ian Millar, CHTP (2020).

The HFTP Annual Business Meeting will take place virtually on Wednesday, October 20; access details to be announced closer to the event. For the latest news, follow HFTP/HITEC on HITEC Bytes, PineappleSearch, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter (@HFTP), Instagram (HFTP_HITEC), Flickr and YouTube. For more information about HFTP events, contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at [email protected], +1 (512) 249-5333. For more information on the Paragon Award, contact the HFTP Communications Department at [email protected] or +1 (512) 249-5333.
Opinion Article

27 May 2021

Remember this grim tale.

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The lodging industry is estimated to report a 50 percent, nearly $125 billion-dollar loss in 2020 making this year the worst year in history for the hotel industry, just the hotels and not travel overall. Oxford also reported that this will equate to a total loss of $910 billion in travel related economic output in 2020. This is seven times the impact of 9/11. Will your hotel or favorite destination close? Odds are it will.

The back page of the Hotel Business September 15th2020 edition magazine reported that travel supports 15.8 million American jobs in total, employing 1 out of 10 Americans. 2019 travel generated $2.6 trillion for the U.S economy. The local impact is 70 percent to local communities (in traveler related spending) in transportation, food and beverage (retail). The failure of our (Nations) hotels can (and will) have a massive ripple effect on our countrys economy. This is our new reality and needs to make headlines not the back page. Please share and encourage Congress to support the industry, before its too late.

In reviewthere is no doubt that March and April of 2020 presented some of the toughest times for the hospitality industry- EVER- affecting hotels, restaurants, OTAs, travel consortia, airlines and cruise lines. Hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, the industry has been knocked down, but not out. Todays outlook is still grim as winter approaches despite travel peaks in many markets in the summer. The worst is still to come, unfortunately.

Fast Forward to today April 30th, 2021

The Hospitality Asset Managers Association (HAMA) today released the results of its bi-annual survey of asset managers thoughts, experiences and forecasts for the upcoming year as the hotel industry continues to deal with the on-going pandemic. There were more than 100 participants involved in the survey. Based on our findings, while there is obvious optimism about a much quicker than expected recovery, a meaningful percentage of hoteliers still are working towards solutions. We are confident that better times are not too far ahead. Whether or not individual owners and properties will continue to survive and hopefully thrive remains to be seen. Said the HAMA President.

HAMA Survey findings show that:

Nearly 30 percent of respondents are contemplating brand or management changes as part of their recovery strategy, approximately five percent believed they would change brands, ten percent foresaw changing management companies and roughly 15 percent believe they would change both.

Approximately 15 percent of participants expected to either hand back keys to the lender or enter into a forced sale situation. Nearly 10 percent already had.

Most HAMA members (50 percent) believe RevPAR will return to 2019 levels by 2023. Not quite ten percent believe it will occur as early as 2022, while approximately 37 percent believed it would happen in 2024. Predictions for 2025 and 2026 came in at three and one percent, respectively.

The three factors most concerning to participants right now include labor availability (75 percent), demand (60 percent) and labor costs (55 percent).

On average, in urban markets for full-service and luxury properties, nearly 45 percent of those surveyed anticipated acquisition price discounts of 11 to 20 percent. While one respondent believed discounts could reach 41 percent or more off pre-pandemic pricing, approximately 15 percent felt discounts would be as low as zero to eleven percent.



HAMA members are involved in asset management, acquisition, financing and disposition of hotels and resorts and are directly responsible for making decisions concerning capital investments, renovations, asset repositioning, operational policies and management selection. Its U.S. members represent more than 3,500 hotels and resorts across every major brand, accounting for 775,000 hotel rooms, 250,000 employees, $40 billion in annual revenue and $3 billion in capital expenditures. The organization boasts an additional 245 international affiliate members, as well.

Grey Hospitality believes troubled assets will become readily available throughout this year with the lack of travel in the corporate and group segments. Leisure travel this summer will not sustain the total U.S inventory of supply and that coupled with no global tourism impact- the industry will continue to suffer.

Global Impact to the Travel Industry

The following quick review of Global Tourism:

The World Travel and Tourism Council (WT&TC) has warned the COVID-19 pandemic will impact nearly 50 million jobs worldwide in the travel and tourism industry. (with Asia impacted the worst at 30 million lost jobs) and more than 20 million in the US.

Over 40 airlines around the world temporarily grounding their entire fleets, and many major carriers canceling more than 90 percent of scheduled flights

The TSA reported 95 percent reduction in US Travel in early April and still today fluctuate almost weekly as virus cases are reported.

Once the outbreak is over, it could take up to 12 months for the industry to recover (changing weekly by STR)

In late March, the International Air Transport Association estimated lost revenue from the coronavirus will exceed $250 billion in 2020 and urged governments to offer immediate financial support to the industry

The tourism industry currently accounts for 10% of global GDP

The coronavirus epidemic is expected to affect up to 50 million jobs in the global travel and tourism sector COVID-19 considerations from early in 2020, staggering numbers of temporary hotel closures followed in the wake of COVID-19s spread. Some closures were government mandated, while others were voluntary and a result of drastically reduced demand or safety considerations.

Airlines

The transport association said todays crisis is far worse and more widespread than after 9/11, when U.S. airlines lost approximately $19.6 billion in revenue in 2001-2002. After the terrorist attacks, the U.S. government provided $15 billion to airlines in compensation and loan guarantees.

Hotels

No travel, no occupancy, no meals- is where we started in March/April. Today this is no longer the absolute truth and is more market and segment driven. The hospitality industry is changing almost weekly, now for the better, in both expectations of travelers and the offerings available at facilities. According to the American Hotel & Lodging Industry State of the Hotel Industry Analysis dated August 31st 2020 nearly 5 out of 10 employees are still not working and the industry sector is down 4.3 million jobs; 65 percent of remain at or below 55 percent occupancy; only 33 percent of Americans say they have traveled overnight for leisure or vacation since March of 2020 and only 38 percent say they are likely to travel by the end of the year. Labor to reopen larger hotels and the amenities will be the struggle for many properties do to the unemployment challenges facing the U.S. work force.

City center major U.S urban markets are hit the hardest based on occupancy levels mostly in the 30 percent range due to lack of group and meetings travel, extremely weak corporate segment, government travel restrictions, civil unrest, and general anxiety due to social and pandemic publicity and media.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and, more directly, the global ban on travel and rapidly expanding social distancing requirements, travel limitations and the governmental National and State stay-home orders brought travel to a halt at a time when spring break was upon the U.S in early 2020. Spring break for 2021 showed pent up demand and the resurgence of travel in many southern and popular destination markets with Tampa Florida leading the charge at or near 77 percent occupancy.

As an attempt to offer a level of normality at a time of crisis, most full-service restaurants are continuing to operate at small fractions of capacity including increased delivery and curb side pickup of food, beverage and alcoholic concoctions.

Economy and Midscale hotels continue to support the industry. Grey Hospitality has been participating with STR and tracking the weekly effect of the global pandemic and its impact on the industry and is reported in detail later in this report.

According to Oxford Economics, a leader in global forecasting and quantitative analysis, the lodging industry is estimated to report a 50 percent, nearly $125 billion-dollar loss in 2020 making this year the worst year in history for the hotel industry, just the hotels and not travel overall. Oxford also reported that this will equate to a total loss of $910 billion in travel related economic output in 2020. This is seven times the impact of 9/11. https://www.hotelbusiness.com/

Monthly Trend in U.S Performance

As for the state of the industry many hoteliers and consultants turn to STR for monthly performance trends and signs of national recovery. The following information has been released by STR and documents the industry recovery monthly over the pandemic. https://str.com/data-insights/news/press-releases

Before reporting on market occupancies, more not so great news. Currently STR is measuring occupancy in two formats- the traditional way being tracing realized demand against market supply and excludes temporarily closed rom that could not be booked. STR reported This metric does not measure the total potential occupancy of a market, that is, the number of rooms demanded as a percentage of the total number of rooms existing in a market. For this metric, STR introduced Total-Room-Inventory methodology. This methodology takes realized demand and divides it by the total number of rooms in a market regardless of operational status (a.k.a. total room inventory). Until all temporarily closed properties in a market have reopened, TRI occupancy will be less than occupancy, because its base (supply) is bigger. The size of the delta between these two occupancy measures can indicate the amount of hotel closures in a market as well as help assess market recovery.

In many markets, especially in major U.S. markets the TRI can be a discount of up to 20+ percentage points or more. STR reported occupancy in New York for example over the first 3 weeks of the month to be at 53.1,52.2 and 55.2 percent while the realized actual occupancy based on close inventory or TRI was 34.0, 33.6, 35.1 percent respectively. This demand impact is devastating for many markets in the country.

Monthly Trend in Market Supply Occupancy

March 2021:

Occupancy: 54.6 percent

ADR: $106.08

RevPAR: $57.87

Occupancy and RevPAR were the highest for any month since February 2020, while ADR was the highest since March 2020. While year-over-year percentage changes show significant increases because of comparison with a pandemic-affected period in 2020, the countrys performance levels remained well below the pre-pandemic comparable of March 2019: occupancy (-20.0 percent), ADR (-19.7 percent) and RevPAR (-35.8 percent). To track recovery, STR has launched a Market Recovery Monitor to index performance against the 2019 benchmark.

While we are overjoyed to see U.S. demand and occupancy growing and reaching new pandemic-era highs, we must keep in mind that there are 580 hotels with 154,000 rooms still temporarily closed .

Among the Top 25 Markets, Tampa experienced the highest occupancy level (77.1 percent), which was 12.2 percent below the markets benchmark from 2019. The next highest occupancy level was in Miami (72.7 percent), which recorded the highest ADR ($248.26) and RevPAR ($180.36) levels. Miamis ADR level was just 1.9 percent lower than the pre-pandemic comparable.

Markets with the lowest occupancy for the month included Boston 35.7 percent and Minneapolis 36.1 percent. Overall, the Top 25 Markets showed lower occupancy but higher ADR than all other markets.

February 2021 (percentage change from February 2020):

Occupancy: 45.3 percent (-26.6 percent)

ADR: $98.31 (-24.8 percent)

RevPAR: $44.57 (-44.8 percent)

Occupancy and RevPAR were the highest for any month since October 2020, while ADR was the highest since September 2020.

Among the Top 25 Markets, Oahu Island reported the lowest February occupancy level (29.3 percent), which represented a 65.9 percent decrease in year-over-year comparisons.

January 2021 (percentage change from January 2020):

Occupancy: 39.3 percent (-28.3 percent)

ADR: $90.79 (-27.8 percent)

RevPAR: $35.72 (-48.2 percent)

Occupancy and RevPAR were up from December but remained closer to the earlier months of the pandemic. ADR was down slightly from the previous month.

Among the Top 25 Markets, Oahu Island, Hawaii, reported the lowest January occupancy level (23.6 percent), which represented a 72.9 percent decrease in year-over-year comparisons.

Miami, Florida, reported the highest occupancy level (54.5 percent), which was down 32.3 percent year over year. The market also showed the highest ADR (US$195.08), which represented a 25.5 percent decline year over year. The next highest occupancy levels were seen in Tampa, Florida (54.2 percent), and Phoenix, Arizona (49.3 percent). In addition to Miami, six other markets posted ADR above US$100.

December 2020 (percentage change from December 2019):

Occupancy: 36.7 percent (-32.3 percent)

ADR: $91.96 (-27.6 percent)

RevPAR: US$33.76 (-51.0 percent)

Occupancy and RevPAR were the lowest since May, while ADR was up slightly from the previous month.

Among the Top 25 Markets, Oahu Island, Hawaii, reported the lowest December occupancy level (23.6 percent), which represented a 71.6 percent decrease in year-over-year comparisons.

Miami/Hialeah, Florida, reported the highest occupancy level (48.8 percent), which was down 37.6 percent year over year. The market also showed the highest ADR ($187.01), which represented a 26.1 percent decline year over year. The next highest occupancy levels were seen in Tampa/St. Petersburg, Florida (48.4 percent), and Atlanta, Georgia (45.3 percent).

November 2020 (percentage change from November 2019):

Occupancy: 40.3 percent (-34.5 percent)

ADR: $90.92 (-27.7 percent)

RevPAR: $36.67 (-52.6 percent)

Each of the three key performance metrics declined from the previous month.

Among the Top 25 Markets, Oahu Island, Hawaii, reported the lowest November occupancy level (22.6 percent), which represented a 72.4 percent decline in year-over-year comparisons. The market showed the highest ADR ($167.49), however, which was down 26.7 percent.

October 2020 (percentage change from October 2019):

Occupancy: 48.3 percent (-30.1 percent)

ADR: $97.61 (-26.8 percent)

RevPAR: $47.13 (-48.8 percent)

Occupancy remained flat from the previous month, while the ADR and RevPAR levels came in lower than September. More recently, November weekly data showed that occupancy reached its lowest level since the week of June 14-20.

September 2020 and Q3- Actual Results STR

The U.S. hotel & lodging industry reported its lowest third-quarter occupancy level on record, according to Q3 2020 data from STR. Occupancy for the quarter was 48 percent, down 32.2 percent from the same quarter in 2019. Average daily rate was $101.25 (down 24.1 percent) and revenue per available room was $48.58 (down 48.5 percent).

September 2020 reported (percentage change from September 2019):

Occupancy: 48.3 percent (-28.2 percent)

ADR: $99.12 (-24.9 percent)

RevPAR: $47.87 (-46.1 percent)

Each of the three key performance indicators came in lower than August. The absolute levels recorded in August were the highest for any month since April. More recently, October weekly data showed that occupancy reached 50 percent for just the second time since the industrys low point.

Summer Review STR

Summer 2020 was already off to a good start in June, when occupancy reached 42.2 percent, up from 33.1 percent the month prior. Occupancy stayed well above the 40 percent level throughout the summer months, with August producing the highest occupancy since the start of the pandemic at 48.6%. That rate held through September at 48.3 percent.

ADR and RevPAR followed suit, with both metrics reaching the highest absolute levels in August, at $102.64 and $49.91, respectively. Each month between April and July, the year-over-year RevPAR percent change improved by 10 percentage points, however between July and September,

While the above data is for open hotels only, it is important to note that Total-Room-Inventory occupancy (which excludes temporary closures due to the pandemic) did not differ by much from the standard occupancy during September. Standard occupancy stood at 48.3 percent, while occupancy was 46.4 percent  a difference of 4.0 percent.

August 2020- Actual Results STR

The U.S. hotel industrys metrics improved slightly in August from the previous month, according to the latest data from STR. Compared to August 2019, occupancy was down 31.7 percent to 48.6 percent, average daily rate was down 22.8 percent to $102.46 and revenue per available room was down 47.3 percent to $49.83.

The absolute occupancy level was the lowest for any August on record in the U.S., but all three key performance metrics were up from July levels. Recent September weekly data shows occupancy just below 50 percent due to a slight decrease in demand. Among the top 25 markets, Oahu Island in

Hawaii experienced the steepest drop in occupancy, down 69.9 percent to 26.8 percent, and the largest decrease in RevPARdown 81.4 percent to $42.13. San Francisco/San Mateo in California posted the steepest decline in ADR, down 50.1 percent to $123.23.

July 2020- Actual Results STR

In a year-over-year comparison with July 2019, the industry reported GOPPAR was down 93.3 percent to $5.74; total revenue per available room was down 74.1 percent to $60.04; earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization were down 115.1 percent to -$9.24; and labor costs were down 64.8 percent to $28.46.

As the industry inched closer to 50 percent occupancy, we saw continued incremental improvement in the subsequent profitability metrics, said Raquel Ortiz, STRs assistant director of financial performance. We are, of course, nowhere near pre-pandemic levels, but there were additional encouraging signs in positive GOPPAR for full-service hotels and six major markets.

June 2020- Actual Results STR

Due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. hotel industry showed slightly higher performance in June 2020, according to data from STR. This is likely to diminish in July with the resurgence of cases nationally and in key travel markets.

In a year-over-year comparison with June 2019, the industry recorded the following:

Occupancy: decreased by -42.5 percent to 42.2 percent overall

Average daily rate (ADR): decreased by -31.5 percent to US $92.15

Revenue per available room (RevPAR): decreased by -60.6 percent to US $38.88

The occupancy and RevPAR levels reported in June of 2020 were the lowest reported results of any June on record according to STR.

May 2020- Actual Results STR

Due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. hotel industry showed continued lower performance during May 2020, according to data from STR.

In a year-over-year comparison with May 2019, the industry recorded the following:

Occupancy: decreased by -51.7 percent to 33.1 percent overall

ADR: decreased by -39.9 percent to $79.57

RevPAR: decreased by -71.0 percent to $26.35

The absolute occupancy and RevPAR levels were the lowest for any May on record in the U.S ., but all three key performance metrics were up from April levels. Recent weekly data shows occupancy above 40 percent due to a slow and steady rise in demand.

April 2020- Actual Results STR

U.S. hotel gross operating profit per available room fell 116.9% during April 2020, according to the latest monthly P&L data release from STR.

In a year-over-year comparison with April 2019, the industry reported the following:

GOP Per Available Room: -116.9 percent to -$17.98

Total RevPAR: -92.9 percent to $17.39

EBIDTA PAR: -140.2 percent to -$32.30

LPAR (Labor Costs): -72.8 percent to $20.80

Whereas only the later portion of March was affected, April was the countrys first full month in the COVID-19 world, and the impact on U.S. hotel profitability was historic, said Joseph Rael, STRs senior director of financial performance. occupancy levels hit the floor near the middle of the month, leaving many properties positioned to lose money by keeping their doors open. That led to more than 5,100 temporary closures around the country.

Among top markets, Houston reported the steepest year-over-year GOPPAR decline (-135.3 percent), followed by Chicago (-134.6 percent) and San Francisco/San Mateo (-133.6 percent).

March 2020- Actual Results STR

In a year-over-year comparison with March 2019, the industry posted the following:

Occupancy: -42.3 percent to 39.4 percent

ADR: -16.5 percent to $110.66

RevPAR: -51.9% to $43.54

Among the Top 25 Markets, San Francisco/San Mateo, California, experienced the steepest drop in occupancy (-62.2 percent to 30.2 percent), which resulted in the largest decrease in RevPAR (-72.3 percent to $55.42). The market also posted one of the largest declines in ADR (-26.6 percent to $183.68).

New Orleans, Louisiana, matched for the other steepest decrease in ADR (-26.6 percent to $134.98).

Past Demand Crisis Impact  Overview:

STR has tracked data for the last 30 years and reports the impact of recent economic disruptions and the effect to the lodging industry.

2001- 2002 Recession from 9/11 there was a noted decline in RevPAR by an alarming 10 percent

2008 -The period of 2008-09 reported RevPAR down by 16.8 percent.

2002  The 2002 SARS outbreak reported occupancy rate decline by a 26 percent in a comparison between the April-June quarter in 2002 and 2003.

The recession periods resulted in a slump in the consumer spending and leisure travels took the hardest hit. In addition, with increased number of furloughs, nearly no unnecessary business travel was realized.

Outlook for Lodging

STR Current National Forecast:

Hotel occupancy for 2021 is forecast at roughly 75.9 percent of 2019 levels; ADR is expected to reach 82.1 percent and RevPAR 60.7 percent of 2019 levels; given the pandemic impact and window of recovery. STR Hotel performance in 2021 is expected to be defined by two halves. Current conditions and then some acceleration in demand around the middle of the year if vaccine distribution progresses as planned and demand having pent up levels of frustration driven be leisure demand.

Photo: Cayuga Hospitality Consultants

As a benchmark in 2019 the U.S. hotels ran 66.1 percent occupancy, ADR $131, RevPAR $87.00. The industry reported in 2020 is occupancy at 44.0 percent, a drop of -33.4 percent, ADR $103, down -21.3 percent and $45.48 RevPAR, down -47.6 percent. Currently 2021 is forecasted at 55 percent occupancy (not taking into consideration property closures), ADR $110 and $57.00 RevPAR, a -30 percent change from 2019. Hotel occupancy for the 2020 year is forecast at roughly 75.9% of 2019 levels; ADR is expected to reach 82.1% and RevPAR 60.7% of 2019 levels.(Source: Hotel News Now & STR January 26th, 2021)

Key Points

Zero Base Travel Demand (new benchmark): STR defines this as when hotels and the industry have absolutely no demand in the U.S (business, leisure, or group); the lodging industry is still selling 1 million rooms a day and equates to approximately 21.6 percent occupancy . This has never been measured before the Covid-19 Pandemic. (Source: STR week ending April 9 th , 2020)

. This has never been measured before the Covid-19 Pandemic. (Source: STR week ending April 9 , 2020) In this time of social distancing and safer at home STR reported in early April of 2020 21.6 percent of hotel were still occupied.

Market Class: those classifications of hotel performing the best or less bad (STR Quoted) were the Economy and Midscale segments at 20 to 30 percent, respectively.

In March and April of 2020, the U.S. has experienced zero group demand across the country

Early April 2020 STR reported that 12 percent of U.S. hotels (overall supply) were reported closed. This number is likely incorrect due to the fact owners and operators are not notifying STR of property closures and are encouraged to do so.

Currently 2021 is forecasted at 55 percent occupancy, ADR $110 and $57.00 RevPAR, a -30 percent change from 2019. Hotel occupancy for the 2020 year is forecast at roughly 75.9% of 2019 levels; ADR is expected to reach 82.1% and RevPAR 60.7% of 2019 levels.

2022 is estimated at 61 percent and rates closer to $120.00.

Conclusion

Travel will again return but when and where is yet to be determined. Grey Hospitality and STR agree that first, and soon, the leisure traveler will return slowly. As summer results agree in many unique markets. This fall and the continued effects of social distancing and peak cold season, people will again begin to delay their exploration needs and likely pass on travel until summer of 2021. As travelers begin to travel it is likely they will stay local and in lesser populated destinations. We can agree that once popular destinations like New York City, Chicago, and San Francisco, historically top tourist destinations, will be very slow to recover given the Covid pandemic and social unrest. It is believed instead travelers will seek national parks, state parks, family resort homes or rental properties where family units are distanced from large groups as they did in the summer of 2020.

Some individuals believe that over the return to stabilization in the lodging industry we may see some consolidation amongst the hotel franchisees, especially amongst the branded products and the resilient unique properties will remain those unique and boutique hotels. We agree. If one desires to travel it will be for a reason and a memorable one.

Hotels will close, inevitably, and businesses and owners will be forced to take a hard look at any new or future investment they make; and they will be looking at ways to optimize cost, short cuts in hospitality will be a result and we hope its not a long-term strategy, discounted hospitality.

Overall, it is predicted that the world economy, despite taking a severe blow, will be back in a positive direction in a years time and will take around 3 years to completely overcome the losses the lodging industry, restaurant industry and the individual traveler accrued during this pandemic of 2020.
Opinion Article

27 May 2021

As ambassadors of Peter Michael Winery, we have asked ourselves about the reasons of the success of the company during such a global crisis. How has the company been so successful during this tough period?

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According to the Prowein Business Report 2020 issued by the Geisenheim University, 77% of the wine sector's interviewed professionals consider the Coronavirus crisis as the most significant threat encountered. Moreover, numerous challenges currently impact the wine industry, such as climate change or the evolution of alcohol and its trade laws. It is hard to judge the precise impact of COVID-19 on the wine business as we don't have a point of comparison.

Jean-Marie Cardebat, Philippe Masset, and Jean-Philippe Weisskopf are researchers for the European Association of Wine Economists. They recently provided a framework for comparing COVID-19 and previous crises. Looking at the sales channels in 2020, the Prowein report underlines an evolution within the F&B industry. We saw massive and lightning-fast developments of new tools, with emerging actors such as new retailers, restaurants, and online platforms exploiting this sanitary crisis as an opportunity.

Sir Peter Michael started Peter Michael Winery in 1983 in California and implanted the winery in Knights Valley. It now produces sixteen different premium wines in a Burgundy and Bordeaux style. Their motto being "100% family-owned for 100 years", the winery is based on strong family values linked to a profound respect to the land and the environment. Patience is at the heart of PMWs philosophy, celebrating the relationship between the terroir and people. The human factor is very important in the wine industry. Excellent wines are usually considered as the result of a symbiotic relationship between the winemaker, the vines and a unique 'savoir-faire'.

Using Peter Michael Winery as a basis, we conducted several interviews with outside experts to understand how a sustainable operation cycle and a strong human touch help wineries survive a global crisis.

I think of our children, its in their blood now. They have known and walked the land all their lives. Theyve seen the progression; theyve been part of it and the land is a part of them. I dont believe theres any question of us not reaching one hundred years here with our family.

- Emily Michael

How do well-known wine brands compare to small brands?

In 2020, the duration of the crisis caused the unfortunate closure of restaurants, bars and other businesses in this sector. Wineries such as Peter Michael continued to support friends, colleagues and accounts in the field as best possible. However, Peter Michael Winery is also fortunate that the wine is sold directly to their consumers. Following the same logic, the Lafitte-Rothschild group built on a strong customer network with a very strong brand awareness, adopted the same behavior. They placed human values and solidarity at the heart of their operation cycle during the crisis. The CEO of the group, Jean-Guillaume Prats explains that they were not impacted as much as they expected, and therefore, used this sanitary crisis as a learning situation to train their teams and support their business partners.

On the other hand, small producers suffered differently from the crisis. We, as ambassadors, had the chance to catch up with Nicolas Cadoux, winemaker and owner of the Domaine des Graves in Avusy near Geneva in Switzerland. Nicolas saw its activity stop faster than he could have ever expected. His business relied a lot on selling directly from the estate and the pandemic made it impossible for anyone to come to him. Yearly celebrations like the Escalade or the yearly village festival represented a loss in money. A direct reaction was needed. He created a small market with local products in four days, adding value to his products to generate attraction. It was impressive to see how resilient Nicolas has been. Adaptation is key and so is innovation.

Challenges for sommeliers and restaurants during this crisis

A question remained: how did sommeliers and restaurant professionals react to this crisis? The restaurant perspective is a bit gloomier. Nina Jensen, a sommelier in Denmark at Restaurant Lyst, described this crisis as a big life lesson. The whole restaurant team learned a lot about precision and how to face such a challenging situation, both personally and professionally. It has also been an excellent opportunity to take some time to relax, a luxury that hospitality workers usually dont have. Nonetheless, Nina underlines how interesting it has been to go through this as a team. Thankfully, the link between the wine industry and the restaurant trade is healthy and should last.

From a sommeliers point of view, Thomas Fefin is Lecturer of Practical Arts at the Ecole hoteliere of Lausanne; he joined EHL in October 2020 after leaving his position as Director of the 2 Michelin star restaurant Le Gabriel in Paris. He found himself having to suddenly close the restaurant without a reopening date. As such a restaurant is costly to operate, he hadnt the opportunity to reconfigure a working system that suited him. The market became more and more inelastic as the pandemic progressed. Tourists represented a big part of the restaurants clientele in Paris. The closure of borders made it hard for the restaurant to be competitive. Even when lowering the price, the clientele was just not there. However, the crisis created an opportunity for Thomas Fefin to shift attention to a new challenge: becoming a lecturer at Ecole Hoteliere de Lausanne at the 1 Michelin star training restaurant Le Berceau des Sens.

What made the difference for the wine industry?

The wine industry, as stated before, relies a lot on the human factor; Peter Michael Winery credits this as an essential aspect to making good wine. Jean-Guillaume Prats and Thomas Fefin define wine dinners as a celebration of life, and Nicolas Cadoux emphasizes the convivial side of wine. Theoretically speaking, wine is a matter bound to nature and people. Cutting off the interconnectivity between social beings makes it difficult to conduct any business. However, here are the 3 steps we have observed as being essential to survive, and how they have been applied.

1. The importance of brand awareness and the marketing message:

Since 1983, Peter Michael Winery has built their brand image on family and sustainable principles. They have been able to accumulate extreme customer loyalty by providing excellence with every single vintage released. Gaining customer trust is essential. COVID-19 has been stressful, therefore the marketing implemented by each brand has had to become less aggressive. The main goal is to communicate what matters the most: a sense of peacefulness and how wine is a vibrant, natural product, free of stress. Jean-Guillaume Prats also emphasized how important it was to him to communicate this message of serenity and control. Exclusivity and luxury have become secondary to him.

2. Technology and innovation as a daily tool:

Social media and new technology have become part of our daily lives way faster than expected. The wine industry has had to find a new way to remain in touch with consumers when losing the most privileged interface and ambassador they had: the sommeliers.Digital transformation accelerated massively, which Peter Michael Winery harnessed through Instagram and their newsletter. They have been able to keep up and maintain their link with their clientele. Online tastings and live streams to present new vintages have become the new normal. Furthermore, these new technologies are easily accessible for pretty much everyone to use and put in place a new strategy.

3. The sustainable operation cycle:

More than ever, the wine industry is linked to the same passion. It is one big family where each member is essential. The hospitality industry will restart, and so will restaurants and bars, along with life celebrations. However, the pandemic should not overshadow other critical challenges such as sustainability and global warming. This crisis has been a powerful taser shot, showing us how urgent it was to react and prepare for the new world, where travelling for business will no longer take place as often as it used to. Companies should be socially and environmentally responsible.

In addition to charitable giving, Peter Michael Winery has fish-friendly certification for all three estates. Since April 1, PMW has been accredited with the California Sustainable Winery and Vineyard certification. Supporting humanity and not neglecting the fight against global warming is vital to ensure the longevity of our resources and through this, businesses.

Final thought from PMW: the wine industry survived a global crisis and is more resilient than ever

The wine industry appeared more united than ever through the interviews and investigations that we conducted. The horizon is surely brighter than the year 2020 has been. Innovation and resilience have been the powerful weapons used by the wine sector to counter the crisis's effects and support their long-lasting business partners. Most winemakers have conveyed the message that their customers needed to hear by placing the human element and wines implicit message of serenity at the center of their operations.

For now, lets enjoy our wine responsibly at home. The sommeliers and their teams will be back very soon.
A citizen searches for leftover COVID-19 vaccines available from appointment no-shows via web portal Naver, Thursday. Yonhap



South Korea on Thursday launched an innovative pilot program to help non-priority people receive AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines made available from canceled appointments, but the so-called leftover vaccines can hardly be found in reality, many citizens said.



The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) began the test operation of the search and reservation system for AstraZeneca vaccines available from appointment no-shows through the country's largest web portal Naver and top mobile messenger KakaoTalk at 1 p.m.



The test operation was launched as authorities started to offer AstraZeneca shots to South Korean citizens aged 65 to 74, one of the priority groups, on the same day. The online search system is aimed at minimizing the waste of remaining doses from missed appointments amid weak public trust in AstraZenaca vaccines. One AstraZeneca vaccine bottle contains 10 doses; if they are not used within six hours after opening, the remaining doses must be discarded.



Anybody older than 30 who is not yet officially eligible to receive vaccine shots due to limited national supplies can search for leftover doses via Naver or KakaoTalk and sign up to receive them during the day. The KDCA offers real-time information on vaccination reservations and no-shows to the two companies.



Contrary to expectations, however, many citizens across the country complained about the difficulties of finding any leftover vaccines even several hours after the launch of the pilot program.



Furthermore, the KakaoTalk search and reservation service was interrupted for a few hours due to a system failure on its launch day.



Seoul citizens searched for vaccines available from missed appointments on late Thursday afternoon, but were only told that all hospitals and vaccination centers in the capital and surrounding Gyeonggi Province had not a single dose left over.



The situation was similar in other regions.



"I thought it would be easy to find leftover vaccines due to many people's fears of vaccination side effects, but there was not a single leftover dose available today," said a 39-year-old citizen in the southeastern city of Pohang.



Some people reported sighting leftover vaccines, though briefly.



A 34-year-old resident in Daegu, southeast South Korea, said he happened to find a hospital declaring 10 leftover doses available for reservation, but they had all disappeared one hour later while he was still pondering whether to get the vaccine.



In comments on online news stories and social media sites, too, almost all people said they want to get vaccinated but can hardly find any leftover vaccines.



The pilot program will run for two weeks and will officially kick off on June 9.



Medical officials offered various explanations for the shortage of leftover vaccines.



"Those who made reservations for the first day of vaccination seem to have a strong determination to get inoculated and posted a very low no-show rate," said an official at a Busan hospital, adding his hospital recorded not a single no-show appointment Thursday.



Some officials attributed the scarcity of leftover vaccines to overbooking of appointments. (Yonhap)


LOS ANGELES (AP)  The red-hot U.S. housing market is widening the gap between what a home is objectively worth and what eager buyers are willing to pay for it.

Fierce competition amid an ultra-low inventory of homes on the market is fueling bidding wars, prompting a growing share of would-be buyers to sweeten offers well above what sellers are asking. Home prices have rocketed to new highs and many homes are selling for more than their appraised value.

This might be the most competitive housing market weve ever seen in the United States, at least in modern times, said Jeff Tucker, a senior economist at Zillow.

The share of U.S. homes purchased above their list price has been steadily rising since early last year after the housing market began to bounce back from a brief slowdown in the early weeks of the pandemic. An average of 20.3% of homes sold last year went for more than their list price, up from an average of 14.2% in 2019, according to data from Zillow.

Homebuyers appear no less eager to sweeten offers this year. An average of about 28% of homes sold above their list price in January and February.

The trend is apparent in the nation's most expensive housing markets. Some 54.4% of homes in sold in San Francisco in February went for more than advertised, while 51.6% did in Seattle. Some 42.1% of homes sold above their list price in the sprawling metropolitan area spanning Los Angeles, Long Beach and Anaheim, California.

Still, even in less pricey housing markets, bidding wars are pushing up prices. Some 41.2% of homes sold in in February in Wichita, Kansas, went above the list price, and 60.5% did in Boise, Idaho, Zillow said.

While sales of previously occupied U.S. homes slowed in April for the third straight month, the dearth of properties on the market has kept prices climbing to new highs. Last month, the U.S. median home price surged 19.1% from a year earlier to a record $341,600, according to the National Association of Realtors.

Homes are being snapped up within days. Nearly 90% of homes sold in April were on the market for less than a month, according to the NAR.

Meanwhile, buyers' increasing willingness to outbid rivals is distorting the objective measure of home values.

Last month, 19% of homes had their appraised value come in below the contract price, according to data from CoreLogic. In the same month the two previous years it was 8%.

The frequency of buyers being willing to pay more than the market data supports is increasing, said Shawn Telford, chief appraiser at CoreLogic.

When a home purchase is being financed by a bank, the lender typically requires an appraisal to make sure the estimated value of the home matches the agreed-upon price. Appraisers determine the value of a property by looking at recent sales of comparable homes.

In cases when the appraised value comes in below the contract price, the buyer has to make up the difference between the sale price and the amount above what the bank is willing to lend.

Regardless of whether appraisals fall short of what buyers are willing to pay, the bidding war-fueled prices at which homes are currently selling will help set the benchmark for setting home values in coming years.

The sale prices recorded now will certainly help anchor people's ideas of, OK, thats just how much a home on this block costs, that's how much it sold for last year,' Tucker said. I suspect sellers will begin to expect to receive that much if they go out and decide to sell their home next year.
WASHINGTON - Pipeline companies are now required to report cyber attacks to national security officials under a new directive from the Department of Homeland Security, following a cyber attack that resulted in the shut down of the Colonial pipeline earlier this month.

Officials said companies should report "confirmed and potential cybersecurity incidents" to DHS's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency - known as CISA - and assign a cybersecurity coordinator to be, "available 24 hours a day, seven days a week."

"The cybersecurity landscape is constantly evolving and we must adapt to address new and emerging threats, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a statement. The recent ransomware attack on a major petroleum pipeline demonstrates that the cybersecurity of pipeline systems is critical to our homeland security."

Up until now companies were not required to report cyberattacks, leaving national security officials blind to the security of much of the nation's energy infrastructure, which is largely run by private companies.

But cyber attacks are increasing, both from criminal organizations and hacking groups affiliated with governments including Russia and China. In a hearing before Congress earlier this month, Chris Krebs, the former director of CISA, described a coming "digital pandemic, driven by greed, a vulnerable digital ecosystem and an ever-widening criminal enterprise."

The move by DHS Thursday comes amidst increasing criticism that the U.S. government is not moving aggressively enough to protect its infrastructure against cyberattack.

Last week Federal Energy Regulatory Commissioner Mark Christie described the attack on Colonial, which is responsible for roughly 45 percent of the East Coast's fuel supply, as "an act or war or an act of terrorism."

This, "is going to require a much more aggressive response by our government than regulatory changes," he said. "This is going to continue and the next attack is going to be on our electrical grid."

So far, the Biden administration appears to be mostly focused on getting the private sector to better protect their infrastructure.

In addition to the reporting requirement, companies are also required to review their cyber security protocols for "gaps" and report their findings to CISA within 30 days. DHS also said it was looking at, "follow-on mandatory measures that will further support the pipeline industry in enhancing its cybersecurity."
Mexcor International, a Houston-based importer and distributor of spirits and beverages from around the world, has relocated its headquarters to northwest Houston to accommodate growth and be closer to it employees.

The facility, at 11177 Compaq Center Drive, provides 250,000 square feet of climate-controlled office and warehouse space. The building, which was long ago used for assembly operations on the former Compaq Computer campus, sits on 28 acres near the Lone Star College-University Park campus.

"Because it was designed for technology, that's right up our sleeve," said Mexcor CEO Eduardo Morales.

The move created an opportunity to be in a modernized building outfitted with technology to track and fulfill orders for more than 4,900 brands of liquor, wine and beer from more than 100 suppliers. Renovations included building out new offices, kitchens and common areas and installing rack storage. The building is adjacent to 35 miles of trails.

RELATED: Real estate transactions: Manufacturers set up shop in new north Houston project

"You can see the whole operation from your offices," Morales said. "It's really unique."

Mexcor bought the building last fall from an affiliate of SG Interests, a Houston company with interests in oil and gas and real estate. The distributor kept its warehouse at 950 Railwood Drive in northeast Houston and has others in San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, Florida, California and Louisiana.

Founded in 1989, the family owned company started out distributing tequilas produced by Morales' family in Mexico. Revenues are projected to reach $300 million this year, up from $255 million in 2020.

Mexcor is riding a wave of Latin American flavors such as rum, mescal and tequila and American products such as Giant Texas Bourbon Whiskey made by Gulf Coast Distillers in Houston's East End, Morales said. The company handles brands such as Agavales Tequila, Don Ramon Tequila and Jarana Tequila.

Mexcor employs more than 250 people, including nearly 120 in Houston and is in hiring mode. The company aims to recruit students from the adjacent Lone Star College campus, Morales said.
Ariana Grande is a married woman.

The Grammy Award-winning singer wed real estate Dalton Gomez at her home in Montecito, Calif. on May 15, according to belated Instagram posts noting the date. Fans of the pop star will recognize that lyrics from Grande's hit song "thank u, next" foretold that "One day I'll walk down the aisle, holding hands with my mama." That prediction reportedly came true -- with a twist. According to Vogue magazine, Grande's mother Joan Grande, gave her daughter away alongside Ed Butera, the bride's father, with fewer than 20 guests present.

The groom wore a suit by Tom Ford. Grande said "I do" in a wedding dress by Vera Wang Haute.

As the story goes, Grande and Vera Wang -- famed fashion designer and Vogue alum -- decided that Wang would design Grande's future wedding day look some years ago at the Met Gala. After Gomez proposed in December 2020, Wang made good on her promise. Grande's "custom lily-white silk charmeuse empire waist column gown accented with a sculpted neckline, an exposed bra strap closure, and a plunging back" has the fashion world talking. And brides clamoring to copy the look.

The bridal ensemble styled by Mimi Cuttrell reminds some of the outfit worn by Audrey Hepburn as Jo Stockton in the 1957 film "Funny Face." It's an easy comparison to draw -- Grande accessorized her signature high-ponytail hairstyle with a pleated, shoulder-length veil complete with a satin bow that's reminiscent of Hepburn onscreen.

MORE FROM AMBER ELLIOTT: From Miss Texas USA to Mrs. Tafelski, Logan Lester ties the knot at Tiny Boxwoods

Molly Moorkamp, a direct-to-consumer womenswear brand focused on festive occasion pieces, sells a similar veil for $525.

Grande's wedding outfit reminded other fashion authorities of yet another iconic bride.

"The first person who comes to mind is the infamous picture of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy," said Luvi Wheelock, owner of Casa de Novia Bridal Couture. "I don't think it's a trend. I think it's the most classic look that dates back to several decades."

When Bessette-Kennedy married John F. Kennedy Jr. in 1996, her wedding dress designer and former Calvin Klein colleague Narcisco Rodriguez became an overnight sensation. And so did her understated, silk charmeuse gown. The silhouette marked a departure from voluminous, ballgown styles that were popular at the time -- as does Grande's pared-down look, which feels appropriate for an intimate, at-home wedding as the world recovers from the coronavirus pandemic.

"It was perfect then, it's perfect now and will forever be perfect," Wheelock said of the now-timeless silhouette. She also has a theory as to why Grande teamed up with Wang. "Vera Wang has always dressed celebrities because she is the one who revolutionized the bridal industry. I think celebrities look to her to create the best look suited for the body."

Brides aiming to emulate Grande's look for their own big day can shop Vera Wang Bridal collections at Wheelock's store, Casa de Novia. For lower-priced similar styles, try Azazie for options around $200.
Even after wrapping up an accelerated final year of high school where he crammed junior- and senior-level coursework into one term, PACE Center graduate Corey Grant has no plans to slow down.

In fact, once he completes one year of studying virtually as a student of Southern New Hampshire University, Grant is set to head abroad to complete college studies in the Netherlands. His dream school is the University of Groningen, but he is also looking at the University of Amsterdam.

Grants counselor, Mary Beth Kirksey, said shes not surprised at what Grant, 17, has planned for his future.

(When he came to PACE) I saw that this young man had grit, so much tenacity, she said. He knew what he wanted to do and he did what he had to do to get it done.

Grant, who aims to follow in his educator parents footsteps and study to become a high school social studies teacher, said he decided to leave Pearland High School and enroll at PACE because there he could follow an accelerated program and complete high school in three years rather than the typical four.

I have always wanted to accelerate my education and go above and beyond, that was always my goal, he said. Getting into college sooner (than expected) just seemed like the right path for me.

Grant said he also benefited from the environment at the PACE Center, which offers smaller class sizes and more time with teachers. He said those benefits outweighed the downsides of studying virtually, which he has done since the pandemic hit.

It was tough going from a large high school to a small one, but being able to interact more with teachers and counselors I could really tell they care about my education and well-being, he said. It was tough sometimes being remote and not really seeing what was going on in class, but the teachers made it amazing and like I was really on campus.

Grant said adaptation to remote learning and teacher support were a crucial part of his final year in high school. He said learning as much as he can has always been a motivating factor that he said will drive his decisions even after he graduates college.

Although he will spend one more year in Texas completing his first-year college courses at home, Grant has foreign schools in mind. From there, he plans to travel the globe  think Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Germany and Japan  to teach before returning to Texas.

Teaching is a calling for me, and Ive always traveled and been on the go so my whole career plan has been to teach around the world, Grant said. I love learning about other cultures, religions and other people. Thats always been a great interest to me.

Though he admitted this past year has been challenging, he said any kid looking to fast-track their high school career shouldnt be deterred.

To those that feel like they have a drive and cant sit around, accelerating is much easier than you think it is, Grant said. Yes there are challenges, but if you have the motivation, then just ignore those challenges and push yourself through.
Courtesy of Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office

What started as a family gathering mourning the loss of a loved one turned into violent crime with one person in jail and another in serious condition in the hospital, according to a Fort Bend County Sheriffs Office report.

Darnell Williams, 44, of Arlington was arrested at the scene and is facing charges of aggravated assault. He is currently at the Fort Bend County Jail.
PHOENIX (AP)  Arizona has revised the standards for allocating scarce medical resources during crises, such as the coronavirus pandemic, to resolve a months-old federal complaint that claimed the previous standards discriminated against older residents, people of color and people with disabilities.

The revised crisis care standards now reflect legal requirements and best practices to address the needs of people with disabilities and older adults, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Civil Rights said in a statement on Tuesday, according to The Arizona Republic.

Several advocacy groups, including the Arizona Center for Disability Law and The Arc of Arizona, filed the complaint in July 2020. They argued the previous protocols were putting some residents at risk by raising the potential for some people with disabilities to be perceived as having a shorter life expectancy, which meant less medical care.

The new standards are a significant step forward for vulnerable residents, said Jon Meyers, executive director of The Arc of Arizona, which advocates for the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Were very glad that we have standards that would now ensure that all patients, including those with disabilities, would receive equitable treatment, Maya Abela, an attorney with the Arizona Center for Disability Law. Even though we are kind of past the initial surge (of COVID-19) and fingers crossed that never happens again, we thought it was really important to ensure that these changes nevertheless get incorporated.

Arizona Department of Health Services Director Dr. Cara Christ said the department is pleased with the new language.

The standards guide how resources are rationed to patients based on factors such as patients' likelihood for survival. The revisions now prohibit the use of patients' long-term life expectancy as a factor in allocating scarce medical resources.

Long-standing discrimination against people with disabilities and people of color by the U.S. health care system had led to a higher rate of underlying health conditions and lower life expectancy among those groups, the complaint said. For that reason, the complaint said, triaging people based on life expectancy is inherently unjust.

In addition to disability and civil rights groups, the complaint was filed by two Arizona residents, who have disabilities. Both had outlived life expectancy estimates from medical providers and were worried that if they were ever to be hospitalized with COVID-19, their life expectancy would be similarly misjudged.

The HHS Office of Civil Rights has over the past year helped resolve complaints about crisis standards of care in other states, including Utah, Tennessee, Pennsylvania and Alabama.

Robinsue Frohboese, acting director of the health departments Office of Civil Rights, said the new standards help ensure non-discriminatory access to medical resources during this public health emergency for older adults and persons with disabilities.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Brian Sicknick's family wants to uncover every detail about the Jan. 6 insurrection by pro-Trump rioters, when the Capitol Police officer collapsed and later died. They can't understand why lawmakers do not.

Sicknick was one of the on-duty officers badly outnumbered by the mob who stormed the building, smashing windows and breaking through barriers. He was sprayed with a chemical, collapsed and later had a stroke and died. Two other officers took their own lives in the days afterward, and dozens more were hurt  including one officer who had a heart attack and others who suffered traumatic brain injuries and permanent disabilities. Some may never return to the job.

He was just there for our country, his mother Gladys said. He just was doing his job and he got caught up. Its very sad."

She and his partner Sandra Garza made an extraordinary push Thursday with Republican lawmakers who are likely to vote down the creation of an independent commission to investigate the deadly siege by President Donald Trumps supporters, meeting with several senators though the effort is likely doomed.

I'm usually staying in the background, Gladys Sicknick said. I couldnt stay quiet anymore.

The Capitol Police are caught in the middle of a political firestorm involving the lawmakers they are sworn to protect. Congressional leaders are fighting over security, money, leadership and staffing at the police force following the failure of the Capitol Police and other law enforcement agencies to prepare for and hold back the massive mob in the most violent domestic attack on Congress in history.

The House last week narrowly approved $1.9 billion to bolster security at the Capitol, with Democrats pushing past Republican opposition to harden the complex with retractable fencing and a quick-response force. And the House approved the commission to investigate the deadly siege.

But Senate Republicans on Thursday were ready to deploy the filibuster to block the commission, shattering chances for a bipartisan probe of the deadly assault. Most Republicans oppose the bill that would establish a commission to investigate the attack by Trump supporters in a failed attempt to overturn Democrat Joe Bidens election, part of a growing trend in the GOP to diminish the violence and horror of the day.

Garza and Gladys Sicknick were joined at the Capitol on Thursday by a Capitol police officer and a Metropolitan police officer, both of whom have spoken out publicly about the day, and former Republican Rep. Barbara Comstock of Virginia. They made the rounds to Utah Sen. Mitt Romney and Maine Sen. Susan Collins, who are supportive of the commission, and Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson and others who were not.

I am fighting so hard for the creation of this commission so we can better understand the attack on our democracy and the heroic actions that were taken that day to save our lives, Collins told reporters after their meeting.

There have been several oversight hearings, largely focusing on law enforcement failures. The top watchdog for the department testified recently that the police force needed a cultural change," pointing to inadequate training and outdated weaponry as among several urgent problems facing the force. A nationwide search is underway for a permanent police chief. The departments acting chief, Yogananda Pittman, was in charge of intelligence when the riot occurred and has faced a vote of no confidence from her own officers.

For Sicknick's girlfriend, Garza, it's been an excruciating time. It's very obvious that this was not a peaceful day, she said. Police officers were being attacked."

Garza also spoke of how some celebrated the medical examiner's ruling in her boyfriend's death that found he suffered a stroke and died from natural causes. Two men have been charged with assaulting Sicknick and another officer, and the U.S. Capitol Police said that the agency accepted the medical examiners findings but that the ruling didnt change the fact that Sicknick had died in the line of duty.

It was very hard to deal with the ambiguity of not knowing what happened to Brian, Garza said. It was also very hard to know that his last moments on earth were dealing with what he had to deal with.

Unlike a traditional municipal law enforcement agency that polices the community at large, Capitol Police officers are solely responsible for protecting Congress and the hallowed building, which makes the infighting in Congress about their future even more strained.

Its also prompted a handful of officers to speak out publicly and directly lobby lawmakers, highly unusual moves that have involved going around their leadership. One officer has spoken out on television. Others have quietly talked to the media.

Last week, a letter released by a House Democrat was signed by proud members of the United States Capitol Police and lashed out at some lawmakers downplaying or lying about the dangers they faced during the insurrection. About 50 people signed onto the letter before it was released, a fraction of the departments 2,000 officers.

The missive, on Capitol Police letterhead, was delivered to the office of Rep. Jamie Raskin, a Maryland Democrat, and was circulated to top staffers in the House by his office. Raskin said in an interview last week that the officers approached his office, and that they and their families have been traumatized about what happened on the 6th. Raskin said they cant believe there is dissension in the Congress about the simple facts of the insurrection.

It is inconceivable that some of the Members we protect would downplay the events of January 6th, the letter reads. It is a privileged assumption for Members to have the point of view that it wasnt that bad. That privilege exists because the brave men and women of the USCP protected you, the Members.

The letter was quickly disavowed by Capitol Police leaders, who said the agency doesnt take any position on legislative matters. They said in a statement that the letter was not an official statement from the department and that it had no way of confirming it was even authored by USCP personnel.

Federal prosecutors have charged more than 400 people in the wake of the riot, the largest undertaking in the Justice Departments history. Trump was impeached again for his role in the insurrection but was acquitted of inciting the mob to violence.

___

Associated Press writers Mary Clare Jalonick, Nomaan Merchant, Michael Balsamo and Padmananda Rama contributed to this report.
CAIRO (AP)  The Egyptian president held talks on Thursday with his counterpart in Djibouti as part of Egyptian diplomatic attempts to build more African alliances amid an ongoing water dispute with Ethiopia.

Abdel Fattah el-Sissi's visit to the Horn of Africa nation is the first by an Egyptian president since Djibouti declared independence in 1977.

El-Sissi and Djiboutis President Ismail Omar Guelleh agreed that the Ethiopian dam should be filled and operated according to a fair and binding legal agreement that could maintain regional stability and preserve the interests of all parties, el-Sissis office said in a statement.

I stressed Egypt's opposition to any attempt to impose a reality on the ground through unilateral decisions that do not consider the interests and the rights of the river's two downstream countries, said el-Sissi in reference to Egypt and Sudan in a joint news conference from Djibouti.

The visit comes amid mounting tension between Egypt and Sudan on one hand and Ethiopia on the other, over Ethiopias $4.6 billion Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on the Blue Nile, a main tributary of the Nile River.

Egypt and Sudan fear that the Ethiopian reservoir would affect their water shares, especially in times of drought.

El-Sissi also hailed his talks with Guelleh as constructive and fruitful, explaining that both leaders had discussed ways to improve political, economic and military cooperation.

Both leaders also stressed their strategic partnership on fighting terror in the Horn of Africa and underscored their cooperation over security issues in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, said the statement issued by the Egyptian Presidents office.

Amani el-Taweel, an expert on Africa at Egypts Al-Ahram Center for Political and Strategic Studies, said that a rapprochement between Egypt and Djibouti is crucial" in order to prevent Djibouti from taking Ethiopias side.

Lately, Egypt has been seeking to build good relations with all Nile Basin countries and countries overlooking the Red Sea," she said. Such two regions have to do with Egypt's two most important national security issues, including the Nile River and the Suez Canal.

Nile dispute talks with Ethiopia stalled in April; international and regional efforts have since tried to revive the negotiations without success.

In March, el-Sissi warned Egypt's share of the Nile was untouchable and that there would be instability that no one can imagine if Ethiopia fills the reservoir without an international agreement.

Egypt and Sudan argue that Ethiopias plan to add 13.5 billion cubic meters of water in 2021 to the dams reservoir is a threat to them. Egypt has been seeking a legally binding agreement that would spell out how the dam is operated and filled, based on international law and norms governing cross-border rivers.

On Monday, President Joe Biden acknowledged Egypts concerns about access to Nile water and stressed his administrations interest in reaching a diplomatic resolution.

Egypt relies on the Nile for more than 90% of its water supplies. Ethiopia says the $5 billion dam is essential, and that the vast majority of its population lacks electricity. Sudan wants Ethiopia to coordinate on the dams operation to protect its own power-generating dams on the Blue Nile.

The Blue Nile meets the White Nile in Khartoum, before winding northward through Egypt into the Mediterranean Sea.
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden on Thursday warned naysayers in Congress not to get in the way of his big infrastructure plans as the White House panned a counteroffer from Republican senators to tap unused COVID-19 relief for a more modest investment in roads, highways and other traditional public works projects.

After touring a manufacturing technology center at a community college in Cleveland, Biden held up a card with the names of Republicans lawmakers who had rejected his coronavirus aid bill in Washington but later promoted its assistance when they were back home in front of voters. He warned them not to play similar games as he pushes this next legislative priority in Congress.

Im not going to embarrass anyone, but I have here a list," he said. If youre going to take credit for what weve done, he continued, dont get in the way of what we need to do.

The political arguments over Biden's ambitious proposals are quickly distilling into a debate over the size and scope of what all sides agree are sorely needed upgrades to the nation's aging and outmoded infrastructure.

Now Playing: President Joe Biden is warning Republicans not to "get in the way" of his infrastructure plans. In Cleveland Thursday, Biden held up a card with the names of GOP lawmakers who rejected his COVID aid bill but later promoted its help back home. (May 27) Video: Associated Press

As the president reaches for a soaring legislative achievement with his $1.7 trillion American Jobs Plan and a separate $1.8 trillion American Families Plan, he is assessing whether he can cut a bipartisan deal with Republicans or will have to push through his proposals with only Democratic votes.

Republican senators outlined a $928 billion infrastructure proposal Thursday as a counteroffer to Biden, drawing a fresh red line against his plans raise the corporate tax, from 21% to 28%, to pay for new spending. Instead, the Republicans want to shift unspent COVID-19 relief dollars to help cover the costs, a nonstarter for many Democrats.

The Republican senators said their offer, raised from an initial $568 billion, delivers on core infrastructure investments that Biden has focused on as areas of potential agreement. With about $250 billion in new spending, the GOP plan remains far from the presidents approach. Biden reduced his $2.3 trillion opening bid to $1.7 trillion in earlier negotiations.

Its a serious effort to try to reach a bipartisan agreement, said Sen. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia, the lead Republican negotiator.

As Biden left for Ohio, he said he called Capito to thank her for the proposal, but told her, We have to finish this really soon.

Biden toured Cuyahoga Community College, the same school where he was to hold a campaign rally in March 2020 only to have it be the first one canceled due to the pandemic. He cast his return as a symbol of how far the nation has come back, and he tried to make the case that passing his jobs and families plans would further the economy's recovery and prepare it for the decades ahead.

Now Playing: Touting his efforts to get a pandemic and struggling economy back on track, President Joe Biden said Thursday his policies are working. But he insisted more needs to be done and urged support for his economic plan to help "win the 21st century." (May 27) Video: Associated Press

The president said he was not looking to punish anyone with his tax plans. But said it was time for Americas wealthy and corporations to help invest in the nations future.

Do you want to give the wealthiest people in America another tax cut? I dont begrudge them the money they make. Just start paying your fair share just a little bit, Biden said.

Talks are at a crossroads before a Memorial Day deadline to make progress toward a bipartisan deal. With slim majorities in the House and Senate, the Democratic president faces other hurdles if he decides to abandon talks with Republicans and tries to unite fractious Democrats.

The Republican offer would increase spending by $91 billion on roads and bridges, $48 billion on water resources and $25 billion on airports, according to a one-page summary released by the GOP negotiators. It would provide for one-time increases in broadband investments, at $65 billion, and $22 billion on rail.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said on CNBC that it was time for the administration to sober up and realize they dont have a massive mandate in Congress to do all of the things theyre trying to do.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Biden and Capito are expected to meet next week, while Congress is on a break.

The White House is also continuing to explore other proposals that we hope will emerge she said. A bipartisan group of lawmakers that includes Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, is also preparing an alternative plan.

Psaki made clear the administrations concern over tapping pandemic funds. We are worried that major cuts in COVID relief funds could imperil pending aid to small businesses, restaurants and rural hospitals using this money to get back on their feet after the crush of the pandemic, Psaki said in a statement.

Core differences remain between the White House and GOP negotiators over the definition of infrastructure: Republicans stick to traditional investments in roads, bridges, ports and water drinking systems, while Biden takes a more expansive view.

Under Biden's initial proposal, there is more than $300 billion for substantial upgrades to public schools, Veterans Administration hospitals and affordable housing, along with $25 billion for new and renovated child care centers.

Bidens proposal would spend heavily on efforts to confront climate change, with $174 billion to spur the electric vehicle market, in part by developing charging stations, and $50 billion so communities can better deal with floods, hurricanes, wildfires and other natural disasters.

One area of agreement is on boosting broadband, but the sides are apart on details. Republicans raised their initial offer to $65 billion in an earlier exchange; Biden is seeking $100 billion.

Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo., said the Republicans' overall proposal reflects what what people at home in Wyoming think of is infrastructure, roads with potholes.

The White House, still expressing public hopes for bipartisanship, welcomed the offer. At $928 billion over eight years, it features $257 billion in new money, more than the $225 billion the White House had said was in the initial Republican proposal. But still far less than the White House had hoped.

Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., said there is $700 billion in unspent COVID-19 aid from the American Rescue Plan, which was the administration's $1.9 trillion response to the coronavirus crisis earlier this year.

Toomey said some of that money could fill the gap between the amount of revenue normally collected from transportation taxes and fees, and the new spending the GOP senators are proposing.

But he said the Republican negotiators have made it very, very clear on every single time weve had a discussion is that were not raising taxes.




South Korea has signed a U.S.-led international program to send humans to the moon again and further explore Earth's only satellite, the science ministry said Thursday.







Science Minister Lim Hye-sook signed the Artemis Accords as a follow-up on an agreement reached at a recent bilateral summit in Washington, becoming the 10th signatory to the pact, the ministry said.







The Artemis Accords is an international agreement among governments participating in the Artemis Program, a U.S.-led effort to return humans to the moon by 2024, and to ultimately expand and deepen space exploration.







The U.S, Japan, Britain, Italy and four other countries signed the agreement in October 2010. Ukraine joined the program later.







"It is important to explore space in a transparent and responsible way through international cooperation," Lim said. "South Korea's signing is expected to help expand cooperation among the signatories in space exploration."







The science ministry said South Korea will further expand its cooperation with America and participate in a range of areas in the Artemis Accords and other space exploration programs.







In particular, South Korea has been joining hands with the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to develop a lunar orbiter set to blast off in August 2022.







South Korea, a relative latecomer to the global space race, has been working on a lunar orbiter program since 2016. (Yonhap)


Brittany Bowens  the mother of slain 4-year-old Maleah Davis  took her time to say how Derion Vence was at the root of her grief.



She looked at him, clad in an orange Harris County Jail jumpsuit, and cried in silence Thursday as a bailiff in the 180th District Court fetched her a box of tissues. And then, for the first time in public since her daughters heart-wrenching 2019 disappearance, she spoke. Destroyed were future memories of prom nights, dates and weddings, Bowens said.



I will never forgive you, were the words that Bowens aimed at her former fiance. You have taken away the purest love I have ever known.

Bowens begged of him one thing: To know the truth of what happened to her child.



I deserve to know, she continued.



Vence said nothing.

Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer

The mother read her victim impact statement after Vence pleaded guilty to two charges  injury to a child and tampering with evidence  in lieu of a trial. The plea agreement brought an end to a two-year saga that started with a fabricated tale of abduction and led weeks later to the grim reality that Vence ferried her remains to Arkansas, dumped alongside a highway in a trash bag.



The plea deal sentenced Vence, a former mail carrier, to 40 years. The 28-year-old will be eligible for parole in 18 years, having already spent two years jailed and unable to make bond. A life sentence was a possibility had the case gone to trial in July  as scheduled  and a jury found him guilty.

Vences defense lawyer, Dorian Cotlar, said the plea deal was to avoid rehashing the traumatic case in trial.



Mr. Vence did not want to put Maleahs family through this, through a trial, Cotlar said. He wanted to accept responsibility for his actions.



Gregory Arceneaux, Maleahs great uncle, said he harbored no hate for Vence. In hindsight, perhaps he and others had been too trusting.



We trust people too much, he said during the same hearing.



And even if Vence came out right then with the truth  how would they know, he wondered.



I wouldnt believe you because youve told so many lies, Arceneaux said.
ONSCENE TV

A bullet grazed the head of a woman after two men who held her elderly mother at gunpoint fired in her direction early Thursday morning in southeast Houston, according to police.

The womans family left a graduation party in south Houston around 2 a.m. due to a disturbance, said Houston Police Department Lt. R. Wilkins. When they returned to their apartment in the 5100 block of Silver Creek Drive, a 2012 Chevy Tahoe pulled up and two men inside held the elderly woman at gunpoint, Wilkins said.
Each week, Chronicle reporters field questions about COVID-19, safety precautions and other pandemic-related queries. In this weeks COVID Help Desk, we tackle questions about hand sanitizer, vaccines in the workplace and provide an update on Texas vaccination efforts.

What is my employer allowed to ask about my vaccination status?

Pretty much anything, provided they treat your response as they would any other confidential medical information, said Susan Bickley, a labor and employment attorney at Houstons Blank Rome.

There is at least one bill proposed in the Texas Legislature that would bar the segregation or separate treatment in any matter of a person based on vaccination status.

And some groups, including employees at Houston Methodist, have challenged employers rights to require vaccines on the grounds that vaccines have only been approved for emergency use by federal regulators.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Want a COVID-19 vaccine delivered to you? Just find four friends.

But generally speaking, Bickley said, employers in Texas and nationally have the right to ask about or require vaccines. Employees are also allowed to ask one another about vaccines, she said.

Still, she advised businesses to be sensitive to their employees feelings and potential health concerns.

If youre going to ask, it would be a good idea to take into account the feelings of your workforce, she said.

She noted many national companies have opted not to require vaccines because doing so would require navigating different state laws or upsetting employees.

Do I still need to use hand sanitizer? What about spraying down my groceries?

Generally speaking, its probably fine to stop worrying about contamination via surfaces, said Dr. Charles Lerner, an internal medicine specialist and member of the Texas Medical Associations COVID-19 task force.

Early in the pandemic  when much was still unknown about how the virus is transmitted  public health experts advised hand sanitizer and disinfectant.

On HoustonChronicle.com: For Houston's undocumented and unvaccinated, fear and skepticism still loom large

A year later, Lerner says it is increasingly clear that the risk of exposure through physical surfaces is trivial compared to activities in which people can be exposed to airborne particles, such as flying or eating at an indoor restaurant.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention still recommends hand-washing after preparing food, being in a public space or blowing your nose.

There are good reasons to keep up with hand-washing: This year has seen some of the lowest rates of influenza in Houston, with the number of cases at Memorial Hermann dropping from 983 last year to just 3 in 2020.

Memorial Hermann physicians have credited that drop to widespread mask-wearing and hand sanitizing, among other precautions.

What do we know about a potential vaccine booster? When would they likely be needed?

Its still unclear if  or when  a potential booster shot would be needed. And it will likely be a few more months until major vaccine developers have enough data from the first batch of inoculations to determine the length of protection they provide.

Pfizer announced earlier this week that it has begun testing a booster shot on adults. And Moderna reports its booster shot is effective against the more-contagious and deadly B.1.351 and P.1. variants. The company is also testing a third dose similar to its original two-dose inoculation, as well as a booster that mixes its original dose with that from its booster shot.

Johnson & Johnson, which provides a one-shot vaccine, is also researching the question.

Dr. David Lakey, chief medical officer of the University of Texas System, said more will need to be known about the current vaccines before it can be determined whether vaccine boosters will be needed.

He said hes been encouraged by the length of protection that the three major vaccines have shown to provide so far. But Lakey is not ruling out the need for boosters, particularly until more is known about the various mutations of the coronavirus.

The science is showing that immunity is lasting in individuals, Lakey said. But for right now its too early to tell whether boosters will be necessary.

Where do Texas vaccination efforts stand?

As of this week, roughly 52 percent of all Texans have received at least one dose of the vaccine, and about 42 percent are fully vaccinated, according to the Texas Department of Health State Services.

Texas has routinely ranked among the worst of all states for vaccinations per capita, and there are significant disparities in vaccination rates between different parts of the state.

In Harris County, for example, about 53 percent of residents eligible for the vaccine  those ages 12 and older  have received at least one dose and 42 percent have been fully inoculated.

Local officials expect those numbers to continue trending upward now that children are eligible for vaccines.

But vaccination rates still lag in many parts of Texas, namely in more rural counties. For example: Only about 36 percent of eligible Montgomery County residents have been fully inoculated, according to DSHS.

Theres still much debate among health experts about the threshold at which we will reach herd immunity, though the CDC estimates it to be around 70 percent.

robert.downen@chron.com
The Department of Housing and Urban Development has agreed to look into a private company that makes millions in federal housing contracts after a tenant protest in Kansas City, Mo.

Tenants from a property called Gabriel Tower staged an action during HUD Secretary Marica Fudges visit to talk about the American Jobs Plan. Gabriel Tower is subsidized by HUD and owned by a company out of Ohio called The Millennia Companies, which was the subject of a Houston Chronicle investigation that found habitability complaints such as sewage, fire hazards and mold in the companys 250-plus properties nationwide.
Another $157 million in federal rent relief grants is heading to the city and countys coffers, even as government and nonprofits still are working to distribute about half of an earlier $159 million allotment.

The city and Harris County launched the joint $159 million rent relief fund in February, marking the largest local investment in aid since the pandemic sparked a housing crisis for renters who saw their incomes plunge when businesses shuttered. That money came from the federal Emergency Rental Assistance program, passed by Congress late last year.

In the three months since its launch, officials have been able to give out a little more than half of that relief money: $82 million. Another $60 million remains available, with $7 million devoted to other services and the remaining $10 million going to administrative expenses, mostly to Catholic Charities and BakerRipley, the nonprofit organizations operating the program.

More than 22,500 families have benefited from the program, said Joy Partain, a spokesperson for the nonprofits. A total of 54,000 renters have applied, and 43,000 are in the processing pipeline, Partain said.

Now, another $157 million will be added to the cause, stemming from the $2 trillion American Rescue Plan Act passed by Congress in March.

The city said it is not yet sure what do with the new rental relief funds. It is not clear whether some of the money will be used in the existing program under Catholic Charities and BakerRipley.

The citys share ultimately will include $86 million in emergency rental funds from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, and the county will receive $71 million. The city also will get $37 million, and the county $16 million, from the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Those funds can be used for broader purposes, such as affordable housing, supportive services and developing shelter units.

City Council voted Wednesday to accept $55 million of the rent relief funds, while Commissioners Court accepted an initial disbursement of $28 million Tuesday.

Housing officials are awaiting more guidance from federal officials on how they can spend the money, but city officials said they are working on a plan targeting four groups: the homeless, those at risk of becoming homeless, people fleeing domestic or family violence, and veterans and their families.

Advocates say the delay in getting the earlier money out the door is not on the governments and their nonprofit partners, but a factor of federal guidelines and landlords who do not want to participate.

Under rules from the Treasury Department, landlords are required to apply for the relief first, and then their tenants. The money was to be distributed directly to landlords, though it did leave open the option of providing direct relief to tenants whose landlords refused to cooperate.

Need rent relief? Go to HoustonHarrisHelp.org for more information on who is eligible for relief and how to apply. See More Collapse

Dana Karni, an attorney with Lone Star Legal Aid who has been representing tenants facing evictions, said she sees landlords every day in court who refuse to engage with the program and a similar one from the state.

Were finding that rental assistance is not flowing as quickly or maybe as comprehensively as it could or should, Karni said. We still see that, without any doubt, landlords refuse to participate. Ive heard landlords say they dont want to participate, they dont want to complete the forms.

She said the Houston-Harris County program usually has been able to process applications in less than a month.

Theyre rolling out funds much more efficiently than the state, she said.

Zoe Middleton, southeast Texas co-director for the housing nonprofit Texas Housers, agreed. She also said justices of the peace, who oversee eviction proceedings, generally have lacked understanding of the available pots of money and how landlords can use them.

Landlords managing 18,837 properties in Harris County have applied to the local program. Of the 25,000 people to receive $82.5 million in relief so far, only 100 were applicants without participating landlords, and they received $500,000, according to Partain.

The process to apply without landlords is more cumbersome, she said, because the renters must try to get the property owner to participate and sit through a waiting period for them to do so, which recently was trimmed from 21 to 14 days. The applicants then must submit more documentation to substantiate their missed payments, per the Treasury guidelines.

Middleton said the two primary focus points for the new money should be direct aid and legal services. The former would put money into the pockets of tenants facing eviction, and the latter would help attorneys represents tenants facing eviction in court.

In the last two months, only 3.8 percent of defendants had legal representation in 4,465 eviction cases filed in Harris County, according to figures from data analysis firm January Advisors.

The city can fund a right-to-counsel program that should help people remain housed and enjoy their right to due process, Middleton said.

Karni identified another unmet need. When a judge grants an eviction judgment against tenants, they have an automatic right to appeal the decision to a county court judge. They must pay a months rent into the court registry to do so, however, and many lack the resources to pay that amount on time. Devoting a share of rental aid to that purpose would help, she said. That in turn could help overturn evictions, keeping people in their homes.

The fact that theres no rental assistance thats earmarked for people to pay that is really problematic, Karni said.

dylan.mcguinness@chron.com
Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush said Wednesday he would ask the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to directly send Harris County $750 million in flood mitigation aid related to Hurricane Harvey, days after his agency declined to award the county any money for their proposed projects.

The snub sparked an intense and immediate backlash from Houston-area Democrats and Republicans, who demanded that Bush revise the General Land Offices metrics for doling out $2.1 billion in federal relief for flood projects. The officials noted that Houston bore the brunt of the historic hurricane, yet had failed to secure one cent from the initial $1 billion round of funding.

In a statement, Bush blamed the situation on federal red tape requirements and complex regulations that he described as a hallmark of the Biden administration. He said the Land Office, which administers Texas federal disaster relief, had been delayed in distributing the Harvey funds by the U.S. Housing Department, which did not publish rules regulating the use of the money until two years after Harvey. That happened under the administration of former president Donald Trump.

Bush said he had directed GLO officials to work around the federal governments regulations by seeking the direct allocation, though he did not say which regulations had prevented the agency from awarding the money to Harris County itself.

A GLO spokeswoman said the $750 million, if approved by HUD, would go directly to Harris County. The county could then decide to send some of the money to the city for its own mitigation projects.

Mayor Sylvester Turner said Bushs plan would still leave the city with only a fraction of the $4.3 billion approved by Congress in 2018 to help Texas prevent future flooding. Turner and other local officials have long insisted Houston and Harris County should receive roughly half of that amount, which they say would align with their initial share of Texas housing recovery aid and the proportion of damage taken on by the Houston area during Hurricane Harvey.

Harris County should receive $1 billion and the City of Houston should receive $1 billion, Turner said. All Commissioner Bush has to do is amend his state plan to provide that direct allocation to the city of Houston and to Harris County.

The announcement came one week before Bush is expected to launch a primary challenge to Attorney General Ken Paxton. Bush has yet to confirm his election plans, though he said on a Dallas radio show last month he is seriously considering a bid for AG. One of Bushs top aides recently criticized Paxtons performance in the 2018 election and described the incumbent as a political dead-man walking.

Bush has scheduled a campaign launch event June 2 in Austin but has not said which office he will seek.

On Friday, after Turner and County Judge Lina Hidalgo said their funding applications had been sunk by criteria that disadvantaged urban areas, a GLO spokeswoman said the agency was required to use that criteria under guidance from federal officials.

The metrics in question considered a mitigation projects cost per person helped, and the share of the residents within the entire city or county that could benefit from the project. Under the GLOs scoring system, nearly half of all points that the city and county's projects failed to secure came from a category that weighed those two metrics.

Houston officials previously asked the GLO to instead consider the raw number of people who would benefit from a project, warning that the GLOs preferred criteria would effectively penalize urban areas for their large populations.

A spokesman for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development disputed the Land Offices account, saying state officials have full responsibility and jurisdiction over who gets the money. While HUD must sign off on the GLOs plan for distributing the funds, there did not appear to be any HUD guidance that required the state to use the criteria opposed by the city and county.

Not enough

The GLO last week distributed $1 billion from Texas $2.1 billion pot of money for Harvey-affected areas, along with smaller amounts stemming from 2015 and 2016 floods. The aid will cover a range of drainage improvement projects, such as channel widenings and new detention basins, along with buyouts of repeatedly flooded areas and other projects intended to mitigate future floods.

The city and county, who unsuccessfully sought a direct allocation of mitigation funds more than a year ago, collectively applied for $1.34 billion to cover 14 flood projects: five from the city, nine from the county. Bushs proposed $750 million figure amounts to a bit more than half that amount.

Hidalgo it was not enough.

Im encouraged state officials have recognized the flaws in their process and Harris Countys desperate need for certainty in receiving Harvey mitigation funds, Hidalgo said. I support and continue to call for certainty in funding, but $750 million for Harris County is still a mere fraction of the $4.3 billion that the state received for flood mitigation after Hurricane Harvey and not enough to meet our needs.

The GLO spokeswoman did not respond to an inquiry about whether the $750 million would be Harris Countys total award from the $4.3 billion, or whether it would come only from the $2.1 billion pot of Harvey aid, leaving the county eligible for additional funding.

The federal government already has sent Houston nearly $62 million out of the $4.3 billion in response to 2015 floods.

jasper.scherer@chron.com
Houston Police Department

A woman was killed Wednesday in a shooting that injured two other people in northwest Houston, police said.

The suspected shooter surrendered when officers arrived on the scene in the 5600 block of De Soto, according to HPD Assistant Chief Ban Tien. The man has not been identified.
Mark Geyer took leadership of NASAs Johnson Space Center, the home of human spaceflight, at a critical time  when the U.S. was not launching its own astronauts into space.

The agency was turning to private companies for the design, construction and operation of crewed spacecraft. And this was causing some stress.

That was a cultural shift, said Geyer, who became director of the Johnson Space Center on May 25, 2018. Not everybody was on the same page as to how that was going and whether we were going to be OK.

That first launch: NASA, SpaceX pull off first astronaut liftoff from U.S. soil since 2011

Three years later, SpaceX has launched 10 people into microgravity. Geyer has also celebrated the 20-year anniversary of people living on the International Space Station, and hes helped mission control continue its around-the-clock operations despite a global pandemic.

He stepped down from this position on May 3 after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The 62-year-old said he didnt feel he could do the job justice while undergoing treatment.

This job is not something you can do part time, he said.

Geyer began his NASA career in Houston in 1990 on a project that was three decades ahead of its time: bringing home rocks from the surface of Mars. This mission has received support more recently, but it didnt get funding in the 90s.

So Geyer moved to the International Space Station program and ultimately became lead negotiator with Russia regarding technical aspects of the space stations design.

It was a transition similar to what hed encountered when NASA began its new relationship with commercial companies. With Russia helping to build the space station, NASA had to get comfortable with the engineering techniques of another country  a former adversary  and determine that it was safe for American crews. The Russians became a trusted partner and even carried U.S. astronauts to the space station after the shuttle was retired.

With commercial companies ferrying astronauts to the space station, the agency had to trust in the industrys overall talent and determine how much NASA needed to know, and be in charge of, to feel comfortable putting its astronauts in these capsules.

Sometimes the team just needs to know that the bosses have been told (about technical concerns), he said. That the bosses understand and that it is their job to accept the risk. Because the team feels this connection to the crew. Its really, really powerful. Its important.

As the first launch got closer, Geyer voted on behalf of the crew and the Johnson Space Center that they were ready for flight. He was at the Kennedy Space Center on May 30, 2020, watching the countdown clock as SpaceX prepared to launch NASA astronauts Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley.

You realize, Wow, we are actually going to go today, he recalled. Its really an intense feeling.

Perhaps equally intense was surviving a canceled program. Geyer became program manager for the Orion capsule in 2007. At that time, it was part of the Constellation program seeking to return astronauts to the moon.

Former President Barack Obama canceled Constellation in 2010, putting the capsules future in question. But it survived and then proceeded to take its first uncrewed test flight in 2014.

That rollercoaster of How do we survive? How do we turn this thing around? Geyer said. And then we flew. That was pretty intense. Id say that was the most exciting.

Bob Mitchell, president of the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership, praised Geyers leadership. As director of the Johnson Space Center, Geyer articulated a forward-looking vision: Dare, Unite, Explore. This encouraged his team to dare to expand frontiers, unite with partners to complete bold missions and to explore space for the benefit of humanity.

It really inspired the employees, and they all rallied around his vision, Mitchell said.

NASA administrator Bill Nelson praised Geyer for his years of service.

More on Nelson: Former Sen. Nelson, Biden's NASA nominee, gets a warm reception in Senate. Hes later confirmed as the 14th NASA administrator.

Mark has had an exceptional impact on this agency, leading the nations key human spaceflight programs for decades, Nelson said in a statement.

Vanessa Wyche has been named acting director of the Johnson Space Center. She previously served as the centers deputy director. Geyer is in a new position where he helps NASA Associate Administrator Bob Cabana with the agencys strategic planning.

Geyer would have liked to spend two more years as the centers director. He felt five years was the right amount of time to learn the job, make an impact and then leave so someone else could bring in fresh ideas.

I was really blessed to be given this job, and it was cooler than I expected, Geyer said. Your job is to really do the things that get the center ready for the next 20 years. You really get a chance to create a vision, and no one is going to tell you how to do it. You have to figure it out. That was really cool. I enjoyed that part a lot.

andrea.leinfelder@chron.com

twitter.com/a_leinfelder
Texas largest corporate tax incentive program is at risk of expiring after state lawmakers missed a critical deadline and failed to advance a bill that would have extended the $10 billion program for another two years.

The Legislature must renew the states Chapter 313 program before the session ends on Monday or it will expire in December 2022.

Named for its place in the Texas Tax Code, Chapter 313 lets manufacturing and energy companies  including some of the worlds largest oil and gas firms  save millions in property taxes by slashing the value of their properties on the tax rolls of school districts for 10 years. Supporters say its a crucial economic incentive to attract new business to Texas.

But the primary piece of legislation that sought to renew Chapter 313  House Bill 4242  never came up for a vote in the Senate. Some lawmakers questioned the cost and effectiveness of the program, and a coalition of critics from across the political spectrum lobbied against the bill and similar legislation.

A Houston Chronicle investigation published this month also revealed how Chapter 313 is giving companies billions in tax breaks to lure them to Texas  despite firms announcing dozens of projects or even starting construction before applying for the incentives.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Just how easy is it to save millions on taxes? Exploit the Texas tax code like a billionaire

Last week, state Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham, described Chapter 313 as a program that was run amok and said it was time to start over with a clean slate.

The lack of support for Chapter 313 was unprecedented. In each of the three prior sessions when the Legislature weighed whether to renew the program  which was first passed in 2001  the bills sailed through the business-friendly corridors of the Capitol.

Chapter 313 was most certainly not an ideal program, but it was better than nothing  and now weve got nothing, said Dale Craymer, president of Texas Taxpayers and Research Association, which has long been among the programs top boosters.

Wednesday was the final day for House bills to pass the Senate. Messages left with state Rep. Morgan Meyer, the author of HB 4242, werent returned. State Sen. Brian Birdwell, the sponsor of the bill, also didnt return a message.

Among those lobbying lawmakers against the bill were not only the conservative Texas Public Policy Foundation and the progressive nonprofit Every Texan, but grassroots groups such as the Industrial Areas Foundation, a nonprofit network of interfaith congregations, unions and others.

Doug Greco, the lead organizer for the coalitions Austin affiliate, said the group for years has pushed Texas cities and counties to pay higher wages to their workers and the workers of companies receiving local tax breaks. It was natural, he said, to turn attention to bills that sought to extend Chapter 313 and its meager job and wage requirements.

The defeat of these bills sends a strong statement that Texas will not underwrite the bottom lines of corporations on the backs of Texas schoolchildren and taxpayers, said the Rev. Miles Brandon, a leader with Austin Interfaith, an affiliate of the foundation. He said advocates would remain vigilant to ensure Chapter 313 does not survive as an amendment to any other bill.

The Chronicles investigation, in addition to revealing that the program was subsidizing companies that had already announced plans to build in Texas, found that lawmakers repeatedly undercut the programs job and wage goals. Officials waived job-creation requirements for nearly two-thirds of active projects. One out of five projects paid workers less than the local prevailing wage but still kept the tax breaks.

The programs gatekeepers  the Texas Comptrollers Office and local school boards  rarely deny applications, and only one company has ever had to repay a tax break for failing to meet its job-creation target, though dozens have fallen short of those targets.

Even if lawmakers fail to extend the program by the end of the current session on Monday, the more than 500 active projects with incentive deals will continue, and likely scores more will be approved before the program dies.

NEWS GAME: Just how easy is it to save millions on taxes? Exploit the Texas tax code like a billionaire

The Legislature also could reinstate Chapter 313 during its next regular session in 2023.

Still, the Senates snub was an abrupt reversal for a program that has grown exponentially in recent years, and which had never before faced a close vote.

Former Gov. Rick Perry, a board member of Energy Transfer, a frequent recipient of tax breaks under the program, took to Twitter and unsuccessfully urged senators to support the legislation that would renew Chapter 313.

HB 4242 will keep TX #1 for jobs and investment, wrote Perry, who as governor did not support Chapter 313 when the program was created in 2001 but later changed his mind. To my friends in the Texas Senate: Lets keep Texas open for business! Yes on HB 4242.

Tony Bennett, president and CEO of the Texas Association of Manufacturers, said the death of Chapter 313 would harm the states economy.

If Chapter 313 is allowed to expire, Texas will lose multibillion dollar projects in automotive, petrochemical, aerospace and high-tech manufacturing and the thousands of high-paying jobs these projects create, Bennett said in a statement.

Critics are skeptical of such dire warnings.

Carine Martinez, director of research and publications for the Texas Public Policy Foundation, which has urged lawmakers to abolish the program for years, noted that Texas had ranked no lower than eighth in the country in attracting manufacturing jobs in 2001  when lawmakers created Chapter 313  and the four preceding years.

But the programs supporters relied on a typo in an industry magazine to incorrectly claim that Texas that year ranked 37th nationally in luring manufacturers, according to a 2016 state Senate committee report that found numerous faults with the Chapter 313 program.

That falsehood has been repeated dozens of times over the years by the programs supporters and the media, the report found.

Martinez said the end of Chapter 313 will give Texas a chance to see how much a difference the incentives actually make in attracting new businesses. And if a company opts to avoid Texas because it couldnt receive a tax break, she said its worth asking whether taxpayers should be on the hook to subsidize such an enterprise.

If theyre not profitable, should the taxpayer take the risk? she asked.

Longtime supporters of the program, however, anticipate a push to reinstate the program.

Wed like to have an economic development program that works rationally, thats fair, and thats competitive with other states. I dont think Chapter 313 checks all those boxes, said Craymer, of the tax research group. Well be prepared for the next regular session to come up with some suggestions for a program that would work better.
Father Daniel Brendan O'Keeffe, right, formation programme director r of the Missionary Society of Saint Columban in Korea, bumps fists with Justice Minister Park Beom-gye after receiving a presidential citation for "Immigrant of the Year" at an awarding ceremony held in Government Complex Gwacheon, Gyeonggi Province, May 20. Yonhap



By Lee Hyo-jin



Father Daniel Brendan O'Keeffe, formation programme director of the Missionary Society of Saint Columban in Korea, was honored as the "Immigrant of the Year," recognized for his over 40 years of dedication to supporting marginalized people in the Korean society.



The 70-year-old Catholic priest from Ireland was awarded with a presidential citation at an award ceremony organized by the Ministry of Justice, May 20.



"I was very surprised to hear that I was selected as the awardee, out of many other immigrants that have shown greater deeds than me. I appreciate the Missionary Society of Saint Columban for having sent me here, giving me an opportunity to carry out my ministry with the Korean people," O'keeffe said during an interview with The Korea Times.



The priest said he had known very little about the country before coming here in 1976. "I knew only three things: very cold winter, political turbulence under the dictatorship, and the fact that it was becoming export-oriented country."



He spent the first four years adapting to local Church culture, learning Korean language and interacting with local residents, while serving as an assistant priest in the southwestern island of Heuksan, and then in Mokpo, South Jeolla Province.



In 1980, Father O'Keeffe settled in Bucheon, Gyeonggi Province, having been appointed to work with factory laborers. "Many workers in small factories were teenagers from rural areas. As they could not receive proper school education, they felt a sense of inferiority and insecurity."



Along with religious sisters, he established an "open house" where young workers were invited for educational programs and gatherings.



"We made an environment where they could freely express themselves and share any stories about their lives," he recalled. "In addition, through studies on labor law and educational programs on critical thinking and self-development, many of the workers became key people in the formation of labor unions in the late 1980."



In the 1990s, Father O'Keeffe moved to a shanty town in Bongcheon, Gwanak District in Seoul, and lived with the tenants who had nowhere to go amid vast redevelopment projects. He worked with Urban Poor outreach of Seoul Catholic Archdiocese.



"We helped them form a tenants' association and ran educational programs with students from various universities, in order to help them demand bigger compensation and claim their rights in the reconstruction process."



After he was appointed as the director of the Missionary Society of Saint Columban in Korea in 1998, he engaged in various environmental activities, as he believed that the religious sector should be more active on the issue.



"Climate change is a challenge to everyone in the world. In Korea, roughly 50 percent of its population are religious, whether it be Buddism, Christianity, or other religions. If leaders of each religion raise their voice on these issues and spread the message to its members, it will move half of the 52 million people," he said.


Given all the effort lawmakers in Texas and other red states are pouring into making abortion illegal, youd never know that the procedure, legal in this country for nearly 50 years, is becoming increasingly rare.

In Texas, two recently passed bills exemplify the extreme efforts. After 14 years of trying, the Legislature finally passed a so-called trigger law, which outlaws abortion immediately if the U.S. Supreme Court ever reverses itself and rules that the Constitution doesnt guarantee women the right to abortion after all. Interestingly, a similar bill failed in 2007 after a fiscal note was added asserting that outlawing abortion could cost the state and federal governments $1 billion for all the new Medicaid births that would result over five years. Texas apparently got new accountants since then. This years fiscal note declares: No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

The other bill would keep abortion technically legal, but is aimed at preventing abortions after a fetal heartbeat can be detected, usually at around six weeks  before many women know theyre pregnant.

Courts have blocked similar heartbeat bills in other states, but supporters hope Texas version might avoid a similar fate due to a novel twist: the law empowers anyone to bring a suit against a provider or anyone else who enables someone to get an abortion, a threat the laws supporters hope will act as a deterrent. Although the law seems to ignore a basic concept of jurisprudence  that a person cant sue unless he or she has suffered some direct harm  it poses a formidable obstacle even if judges dismiss every lawsuit. The mere threat of litigation creates a chilling effect and the law itself may be hard for womens rights groups to overturn because its not clear who theyd sue since the state of Texas isnt actually carrying out the law.

The other encouraging development for abortion opponents lies outside Texas: Theyre hoping that the Supreme Courts decision to consider a case over Mississippis restrictive abortion law indicates a willingness of the courts new conservative super-majority to upset the constitutional underpinnings of Roe v. Wade. The landmark 1973 case has been tweaked through the years but never substantially changed. Mississippis law, already declared flatly unconstitutional in federal court, would bar almost all abortions after 15 weeks.

Again, these assaults on abortion rights come even as fewer and fewer abortions are performed each year. In 2018, for instance, there were 55,000 abortions recorded in Texas, compared with a high of 110,000 in 1981. Nationwide, the share of all pregnancies that end in abortion fell from about 21 percent in 2011 to about 18 percent in 2017, and have continued to fall.

There are competing theories as to why. Some argue that increased restrictions on abortion providers in places such as Texas, where the number of clinics has fallen significantly, have helped drive that number down, but others note that pregnancies themselves have dropped nearly as much as abortions, and that basic attitudes about abortion have remained remarkably steady across the years.

Wed add a further fact: Texas abortions have plummeted, despite the states willful refusal to adopt a truly pro-life policy, one that would help low-income women avoid unintended pregnancies in the first place with consistent access to health care, and one that would support the born children so they arent routinely kicked off Medicaid or forced to face abuse and neglect in foster care.

Texas continues to tolerate the highest rate of uninsured children and adults in America. Lawmakers also seem to accept that more teenage girls become pregnant in Texas than any other state by far.

Those two dismal statistics should prompt outrage and compassion, respectively, but instead conservative leaders in Texas have sought time and again to erect new limits on the fundamental rights of women to make decisions about their bodies and childbearing, while leaving the babies who are born to endure a porous and unforgiving safety net.

Of course, even dwindling numbers of abortions are too many for activists who demand zero  an impossible outcome made even more impossible by an outright abortion ban that would only drive women back to the back alley.

Anti-abortion efforts in Texas and elsewhere have been largely blunted by federal courts, which have ruled repeatedly at all levels  in red states and blue  that women retain the legal right to decide for themselves, particularly up to the point of viability, whether to carry an embryo to term.

Under Roe, and its legal progeny, courts have sought to balance the rights of women with the states obligations to protect the unborn. Thats why, following the enduring framework established in Roe, current law allows few restrictions to abortions performed in the first trimester  roughly the first 12 weeks, when around 92 percent of abortions happen in Texas  and very strict rules for abortions performed later. .

In 2016, the court struck down two restrictions Texas lawmakers had passed under the pretext of concern for mothers health. Balancing lawmakers stated aims against the burdens those changes would impose, the court again sided with womens right to choose.

That should have put Texas and other red states on notice about the futility of unreasonable restrictions on abortion. But the opposite has happened. Of the five justices who ruled against Texas in 2016, two have been replaced by arch-conservatives and a third has been added to replace Antonin Scalia, who had died before the court issued its opinion.

The changing personnel has fueled a frenzy of cases seeking to overturn Roe outright or eviscerate it.

Its impossible to know how the new court will rule in the Mississippi case. But one thing is sure: it will resolve nothing. The political battles will continue and so will those borne of religion and philosophy. Thats why the best outcome we can hope for from this current court is what we already have. Roe and its related cases  imperfect as they are  have allowed America to compromise on an issue that at first glance seems to brook none. That makes it worth preserving and worth fighting for.
Regarding No-permit handgun bill nearly state law, (A1, May 25): Some of the Texas ideas about freedoms are very poorly thought out. Whats next, Gov. Greg Abbott? Apart from the reduction of your salary to the good paying jobs of $11.50 your office recommended for others last week and presumably will be adopting for yourself? Handguns for toddlers?

Tracy Pace, Spring

Whats next for Texasmust carry?

Bruce Bryant, Houston

Will voters remember?

Regarding Can Texas fix its broken power grid?, (A1, May 25): The Houston Chronicles series Failure of Power has Pulitzer written all over it. And although perhaps unintended, it sets up two groups of individuals in Texas. In the first group we find Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and the Republican Legislature to whom philosopher George Santayana was speaking when he uttered his famous adjuration, Those who refuse to learn from history are condemned to repeat it. In the second group are those who learn from history and take steps to avoid historic catastrophes in the future. The question here is, when the Texas voters enter the voting booth in 2022 and 2024, will they place themselves in the first or second group?

Lawrence James Madigan, Houston

George Floyd

Regarding One year later, Houstonians reflect on how the killing of George Floyd changed their lives, (A1. May 25): As the rain fell again on Tuesday morning, I was saddened to read the reflections on how the killing of George Floyd has changed the goodhearted people of Houston. While many nice things were said, very few concrete examples of change were given. Perhaps change takes too long in this country. U.S. Sen. John Cornyn stated that the place to start to change racial inequality and its systematic problems is with police reform. I would like to see a world where change to problems was dealt with through education to teach the true history of this nation and provide children with the background necessary to live equitably. Lets put our money into early childhood education and juvenile detention reform. Lets raise a nation of friendly citizens. If criminal behavior arises, lets put an end to it before these individuals end up as lifers in the criminal justice system. Lets pay our teachers more and welcome the police officers back to the classrooms for Officer Friendly day. This was a program in the 70s, where children learned that police officers are our friends, dedicating their lives to help us grow into law-abiding citizens and protecting us from crime, not causing it. Education is always the answer.

Carol Rechtien, Houston

Resign, Ted Cruz

Regarding Thumbs up, down, (A13, May 22): Sen. Ted Cruz, I am a fourth generation Texan, born in Houston, currently living in northeast Texas. My father served in the U.S. Army in Korea and turned down a purple heart because he felt his injury was too minor. My brother served in Iraq as a U.S. Marine. My husband served in the U.S. Air Force during Desert Storm and Desert Shield, and is also a third generation Texan. Our son is a fifth generation Texan. Your casually promoting anti-U.S. Russian propaganda and shaming our military is a disgusting, traitorous disgrace. You do not represent me or my family, nor any truly patriotic American. You have appeared on Russian state propaganda media at least twice recently to prop up their military at the expense of our own. Your presence in Texas is a stain on the state. Your presence in our federal government is a victory for our enemies. Resign.

Shannon Key, Palestine

Again I find the need to call out one of our elected public servants, Sen. Ted Cruz. As hard as it is to focus on any of his many embarrassing gaffes, this rises to the occasion. His blatant politically motivated bone-headed comments on our military readiness actually reads like part of the ongoing Russian disinformation campaign attacking our country. Is that possible? Oh, wait  hes done it before  in numerous subservient defenses of the former president. He has demonstrated no respect for the military, police (see his view on the Jan. 6 Commission), or the people he serves (see you in Cancun). Hopefully, his habit of shooting himself in the foot will cause straight-shooting Texans to run him out of office next time.

Les Finalle, The Woodlands
NEW YORK (AP)  The white woman who was widely condemned and fired after a videotaped dispute with a Black birdwatcher in Central Park filed a lawsuit against her former employer, accusing the company of not doing an investigation before her termination because of her race and gender.

In her federal lawsuit, Amy Cooper said the company, Franklin Templeton, nurtured" the idea of the confrontation last May as a racial flashpoint, characterized as a privileged white female Karen' caught on video verbally abusing an African American male with no possible reason other than the color of his skin."

She said in the lawsuit it wasn't racism that led her to call police but fear, because she was alone and being aggressively" confronted, and that the company would have known that with an investigation.

OPINION: Got something racist to say? Hope you're a county party chair

Cooper, who had been working as a portfolio manager at the investment firm until she was fired in the backlash to the call, accused the company of discrimination, saying an investigation would have been done if she were not a white woman.

We believe the circumstances of the situation speak for themselves and that the company responded appropriately. We will defend against these baseless claims," Franklin Templeton said in a statement.

OPINION: I am both a white 'Karen' and the mother of a Black male

NEWSLETTERS Join the conversation with HouWeAre We want to foster conversation and highlight the intersection of race, identity and culture in one of America's most diverse cities. Sign up for the HouWeAre newsletter here.

The confrontation between Cooper and the man, Christian Cooper, who is not related to her, began over her dog being unleashed in a section of the park where that was prohibited.

Christian Cooper posted video on social media at the time telling her to go to another section of the park. The encounter escalated, with Amy Cooper warning him that she would call police and tell them there was an African American man threatening her life.

SHIELDED AT HOME: Some Black parents say remote learning has helped protect kids from racism

She then did call, saying she was being threatened.

She was also charged with filing a false police report, which was dismissed in February after she completed a diversionary counseling program. Prosecutors said the program included education about racial equality and five therapy sessions.

In the lawsuit, she said Christian Cooper had a history of confrontations with dog owners over their animals being off-leash, and that it was his practice and intent to cause dog owners to be fearful for their safety and the safety of their dogs."

Christian Cooper had no comment.
Houston, MO (65483)

Today

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High around 90F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 69F. Winds light and variable.
Houston, MO (65483)

Today

Sunshine and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High around 90F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Clear to partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 69F. Winds light and variable.
Chicago, IL (60637)

Today

Partly cloudy with afternoon showers or thunderstorms. High 78F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. Low near 65F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
Hwaseong Mayor Seo Cheol-mo, fifth from left, and Rep. Song Ok-joo of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea, seventh from left, pose with representatives of the foreign national community and city officials, during the opening ceremony of a cultural center, named Seoro (Korean for "each other"), for foreign national residents and those from multicultural families, Sunday. Courtesy of Hwaseong City



By Jun Ji-hye



Amidst an increase in the population of residents with foreign nationalities across rural areas and small towns of Korea, some local governments are providing various support programs for foreign national residents in a bid to prevent them from being excluded from Korean society, as well as to enable the government to be more closely in touch with their lives and whereabouts.



Yeongam County in South Jeolla Province has decided to support all expenses for undocumented foreign nationals when they are required to be isolated in temporary quarantine facilities for two weeks after coming in close contact with COVID-19 patients.



The measure, the first of its kind among local governments across the country, came as it has been difficult for undocumented residents of foreign nationality either to be self-isolated at home or to pay for quarantine facilities designated by the government.



Jeon Dong-pyeong, the head of Yeongam County, said, "The measure is aimed at encouraging undocumented foreign national residents to go voluntarily through virus testing and to help those who came in close contact with virus patients by eliminating their concerns over expenses."



Gangneung City in Gangwon Province will set up a center dedicated to support immigrant workers systematically. The center, which is scheduled to open by the end of next month, will be tasked with mediating conflicts between employers and workers, offering Korean language education, and acting as a "control tower," allowing the government to be more closely in touch with the lives of foreign national residents than before.



Gangneung City has also provided immigrant workers, who came to get virus testing, with bread, face masks and hand sanitizers free of charge. Two pieces of bread, five masks and one hand sanitizer are offered per worker.



The city government introduced these measures as the number of immigrant workers in the city has rapidly increased from 600 in early 2020, to 3,000 now. Gangneung, with a population of 210,000, is one of the most popular tourist cities in Korea, and there has been a growing demand for lodging and agricultural workers. The city government has faced criticism for not systematically managing and supporting this recent foreign national population influx.



Infections of foreign national residents currently account for about 25 percent of the total number of infections in the city. Reasons for the increased rate of infection among foreign national residents vary and include poor living and working conditions, as well as religious gatherings.



For its part, Hwaseong City in Gyeonggi Province opened a cultural center, named Seoro, for foreign national residents and those from multicultural families, Sunday. Seoro is the Korean word meaning "each other."



The center was set up at the building of the Hwaseong branch of the Korean Federation of Community Credit Cooperatives, offering a variety of meeting and educational opportunities, as well as a shared kitchen.



"Anyone can use Seoro from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., except for Mondays," an official from Hwaseong City said. "We hope the center will become a venue in which foreign residents can interact freely with each other."



Meanwhile, Yongin Immigrant Support Center in Gyeonggi Province has prepared various programs to help improve the human rights of immigrant workers and resolve conflicts with Korean employers.



One of the programs involves special lectures to be offered by a professional labor attorney, who will give advice on how to prevent and respond to workplace bullying, as well as essential information on labor laws here.



A total of six lectures will be offered via Zoom from June 12 to Aug. 28.


Columbia-Greene Media has recently teamed up with the US Postal Service to provide same-day delivery of your local newspaper with your mail. Our expanded daily delivery of your local news reaches into the following areas:
The Retired Investor: Carbon Market Comes of Age

At the beginning of this year, the global price of carbon was $24.05 per ton of CO2. In order to achieve the emissions reduction goals of members of the Paris Agreement, prices need to reach a range of $50-$100 per ton of CO2. That makes buying carbon an attractive investment.

The ongoing concerns about climate change have spawned several emission trading schemes over the last decade. The reasoning is simple: if left unchecked, carbon emissions (among other factors) will have a material impact on our environment and will do severe damage to the global economy.

The ratification of the Kyoto Protocol of 2007, by world governments, effectively addressed the challenge, establishing rules of carbon emissions. And in the process created an entirely new asset class.

Today, whatever system a government chooses has at its core, a cap-and-trade system. Emitters of carbon must by law either limit carbon emissions to the level allocated by their government, purchase additional carbon emissions permits in the marketplace, or pay a fine for exceeding their emission limits. This has created a new commodity: carbon emission permits.

The European Union Emission Trading Scheme (EU ETS) is by far the largest such scheme in the world. It has also become the model for most of the world's governments. Carbon emissions, according to the Financial Times, was the top performing commodity in recent years, growing fivefold in the last four years. By the end of 2020, the three largest global carbon futures exchanges had a market size of $260 billion.

In April 2021, on Earth Day, President Joe Biden hosted a "Leaders' Summit on Climate," and promised to reduce emissions by 50-52 percent below 2005 levels by 2030. The U.S. was just one country, among many. The EU, the U.K., and China promised similar, if not larger, reductions. Carbon emission pricing was the central theme of the summit and is the key, fundamental component for achieving the summit's reduction goals.

Prices have risen by 70 percent this year in response to the aggressive goals set by the EU, which is targeting a 55 percent reduction in greenhouse gases by 2030 and net-zero by 2050. The hope is that as the price of carbon credits continue to rise, polluting companies will at some point decide to invest in reducing emissions rather than purchasing increasingly expensive credits.

The re-opening of the world's economies is also a bullish development for carbon pricing as industrial companies and utilities increase output and carbon emissions, which is sparking even more demand for carbon credits. And adding to that trend, new carbon markets seem to be popping up every month. Cap-and-trade carbon pricing exists in 24 national and sub-national markets currently. Another 19 more markets are in the development or consolidation phase.

Some American institutional investors and pension funds are gaining access to this market either directly, or through Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs). The retail crowd is still relatively absent from this asset class.

In addition, as far as I can tell, the carbon market is uncorrelated with other risk assets. The underlying asset, the EU ETS, is a liquid instrument with a well-understood prospective risk premium. Its risk-adjusted returns have outperformed traditional asset classes such as equities, bonds, and other commodities. In my opinion, it appears to be a case of making some real money over the long-term, and, at the same time, contributing to the greater good by helping to address climate change and a much-improved global environment.
McCann Names Valedictorian, Salutatorian for Class of 2021

NORTH ADAMS, Mass.  McCann Technical School has named Stephen Perreault and Ciarra Kruzel as the class of 2021's valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively.

Perreault, son of Linda and Michael Perreault, is a senior in the Automated Manufacturing Technology Program. He is the recipient of the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendent's Award for Academic Excellence, the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute medal, and the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship. He ranks first in his class with a 4.35 grade point average. He is a member of SkillsUSA, National Honor Society and volunteers at the St. John Paul II Parish Food Pantry.

Perreault will be attending Rensselaer (N.Y.) Polytechnic Institute to major in engineering.

Kruzel, daughter of Jhody Nimmons and Mark Kruzel, is a senior in the Computer Assisted Design Program. She is a recipient of the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship and ranks second in her class with a 4.32 GPA. She is a member of SkillsUSA, National Honor Society and the Anime Club. In addition to her academic achievements, she earned a gold medal at the 2021 SkillsUSA State Competition in 3D Visualization & Animation.

Perreault will be attending Full Sail University in Winter Park, Fla., in the fall, majoring in animation.

Both students will graduate from McCann Technical School with high honors on Wednesday, June 2.
State Police Apprehend Maine Fugitive at Goose Pond



State and local police and K9 Emma travel on Goose Pond. BECKET, Mass.  State and local police apprehended a fugitive from Maine on Tuesday who had fled to a cabin on Goose Pond after wrecking his vehicle.

Diego Martinez, 30, of Sabattus, Maine, was arrested on extraditable warrants for his failure to appear in court on illegal drug and firearm possession offenses, as well as for criminal motor vehicle offenses.

At approximately 7 a.m. Tuesday, troopers from the Lee and Westfield barracks responded to numerous calls reporting a single-vehicle crash on Route 90 eastbound in Becket.

Witnesses reported that a man exited the vehicle after crashing and fled the scene on foot. Martinez was identified as the likely operator of the crashed vehicle.

Troopers immediately enlisted the assistance of the State Police K9 Unit and Air Wing, state Environmental Police, Becket Police and a K9, and Lee Police in order to search the area.

Law enforcement teams scouted the woods for several miles on Tuesday.

At approximately 12:30 p.m., troopers received information that Martinez may have been in the area of Goose Pond, at which point numerous troopers and officers converged on the area.

Becket Police Chief Kristopher McDonough transported troopers and MSP K9 Emma on a boat to the area while numerous other troopers and officers walked along trails in order to approach from multiple angles.

At approximately 8:30 p.m., they converged on a cabin at Goose Pond. Members of the search team observed the suspect on the front porch of the cabin. K9 Trooper Norman Stanikmas, Emma's handler, issued warnings that Emma would be deployed to apprehend the suspect if he did not surrender, while he and other troopers and local police officers advanced toward the porch

Martinez surrendered without incident and was placed into custody. He was transported by boat to a state police cruiser and transported to the Lee barracks for booking. He was ordered to be held without bail pending his appearance at Southern Berkshire District Court in North Adams. He is expected to be extradited to Maine. where he will be brought before a judge for the aforementioned warrants.

Multiagency cooperation was instrumental in placing Martinez under arrest.
Prudential Committee member John Notsley, left, presents a plaque to Ed McGowan, whose service on the committee came to an end with Tuesday's annual district meeting.

Against Backdrop of Major Fires, Williamstown District Holds Annual Meeting



Williamstown Fire Chief Craig Pedercini reports to the annual fire district meeting. WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass.  It was a relatively uneventful meeting to cap a year that was anything but uneventful.

The Williamstown Fire District held its annual meeting on Tuesday, and the dozen or so voters in attendance passed all items on the nine-article warrant unanimously and without discussion.

The discussion was reserved for everything that happened in the Fire Department since the 2020 meeting.

The department successfully navigated the COVID-19 pandemic without any of its members contracting the disease, acquired the department's first tanker truck, learned that one of its longest serving members is retiring from active service, helped put out a racetrack fire in neighboring Pownal, Vt., that garnered headlines around the region, battled three house fires in as many days around Christmas and took giant steps toward the goal of building a new fire station on Main Street.

And then the real action began.

"We've been busy the last week or so," Chief Craig Pedercini told the meeting and the audience looking in on the town's community access television station, Willinet.

Just 11 days before the meeting, the department received a call about a brush fire on East Mountain. After four days of active fighting involving personnel from 23 departments around the region, that fire, which burned 947 acres, was brought to within 95 percent control. Pedercini told the meeting on Tuesday that the Department of Conservation and Recreation still was monitoring the last remnants of the blaze that spread into North Adams and Clarksburg, but it may have been officially declared extinguished by the time Tuesday's gathering at Williamstown Elementary School got under way.

Pedercini did not have much time to check in with DCR officials on Tuesday. At 10:30, the Williamstown Fire Department was called out to provide mutual aid to the city of North Adams to the blaze at the George Apkin & Sons scrap yard.

"I got back to town about an hour ago," a clearly fatigued chief told the meeting.

Fortunately for him, there was no need to field questions from the voters who approved the district's fiscal year 2022 spending plan. The bulk of the warrant concerned the district's operating budget of $480,849, a decrease of 3 percent from FY21's $495,865 caused largely by the elimination of street lighting, an expense that shifts over to the Town of Williamstown starting July 1.

Overall, the district, a separate taxing authority apart from town government, will spend 10.6 percent more in the year ahead than it did in FY21 because of a couple of big ticket items: $80,000 toward the "design fund" that will help move the fire station building project forward and an additional $10,000 ($60,000 total) for the district's stabilization fund, which is used to pay for apparatuses like the recently acquired tanker truck.

The 10.6 percent increase in total spending will result in an estimated 6 cents per $1,000 valuation on local property tax bills. A homeowner with a $200,000 home would pay an additional $12 in property tax if that estimate holds up.

Another accomplishment of the last 12 months was the creation of the district's Building Committee, and its chair, Elaine Neely, was on hand Tuesday to give a report on the progress it has made, most notably finding an owner's project manager to help guide the district in its effort to replace the cramped, aging Water Street facility.

Neely said Colliers International, the firm chosen to provide OPM services to the district, is developing a building budget, drafting a request for qualifications for a building architect and working with a grant writer to help the district find potential funding streams for the new station.

The chair of the five-person Prudential Committee, the district's equivalent of the town's Select Board, told the meeting that the district has earned about $50,000 in grants in FY20 and is pursuing up to $690,000 in grants to fund a new truck. Richard Reynolds also said that the WFD is looking into state and federal grants to support the building project.

Reynolds and Pedercini called out the town for supporting its firefighters during four days of fighting the East Mountain fire.

"We have seen a wealth of support  institutions, small businesses, individuals, our partner communities," Reynolds said.

"It's nice to have that resource," Pedercini said. "People pouring in with food and drink. It made my job easier. Instead of figuring out how to feed 100 people, I just had to figure how to get them up the mountain."

Pedercini said that over the course of four days, an average of 78 firefighters per day were involved with the East Mountain fire  representing 3,300 hours of labor.

He thanked all the departments from surrounding communities as well as the DCR, the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services, the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, the State Police and the Massachusetts National Guard.

"They gave us the resources we need to make the event short  four days is not so bad," Pedercini said. "We thought it would go on longer."

Prior to the annual meeting on Tuesday, the district held its annual election, where David Moresi was re-elected to serve on the Prudential Committee, and Lindsay Neathawk was elected to fill the seat being vacated by Ed McGowan.

Fellow longtime Prudential Committee member John Notsley presented McGowan with a plaque in recognition of his service to the district  as a firefighter and chief for 50 years followed by 18 years on the committee.

"It's been an honor to see Ed's dedication to the fire service," Notsley said. "And I hope others follow in his footsteps."

District Moderator Paul Harsch picked up on that theme.

"One thing that has impressed me is the humility with which the men and women in the fire department serve," Harsch said toward the close of the 50-minute meeting. "They're not in there for the glory. They're in there to serve and to do their part for the community."

Harsch then closed by encouraging anyone else interested in providing that kind of service to reach out to Pedercini.
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By Jun Ji-hye



Sungkonghoe University in Seoul is planning to build a gender-neutral restroom that can be used by people of any gender expression or gender identity.



According to student representatives of the university, Thursday, members of the university's student council passed a motion unanimously the previous day to open such a restroom on campus by the end of the year.



"There have been some representatives who raised concerns during a meeting, but more people agreed with the need to build an all-gender restroom," said Lee Hoon, one of the student representatives. "The university has also expressed a positive view regarding the construction, thus the restroom is expected to be built within a year without problems."



Gender-neutral restrooms are facilities that can be used not only by sexual and gender minorities, but also by people with disabilities who might need a person of a different gender to accompany them as well as parents who need to accompany a child of a different gender.



In 2017, the student government at the time pushed for the plan, but it was thwarted due to opposition from many students.



Opposition to the plan still exists among students who are raising concerns that such a restroom could be exploited for crimes involving hidden cameras.



But Lee said, "Hidden cameras are issues that are related to toilets themselves, and not related to gender expression or gender identity. We will mobilize every possible means, including using surveillance devices such as radio waves and camera lens detectors to find any hidden cameras, in order to make the restroom safer."



He added that about 50 million won ($44,750) is expected to be budgeted for the construction of the restroom.



Unisex restrooms have become more common in countries such as the United States and some European nations, although those countries have also confronted opposition.



In 2015, the Obama administration established a gender-neutral restroom in Room 180 of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building at the White House, while California, beginning from March 1, 2017, required businesses that have single-user restrooms to designate such restrooms as unisex and post appropriate accessible signage, under a new law known as the Equal Restroom Access Act.



It is also hard to find gender-segregated restrooms in Nordic countries, especially in Denmark and Sweden.



For its part, Japan has been reportedly considering installing universal-use toilets for all genders at Olympic and Paralympic venues.



In Taiwan, some high schools and universities, such as Minsheng Junior High School, Shih Hsin University and National Cheng Kung University, have introduced gender-neutral restrooms.


Sri Lanka city evacuated amid oil spill scare after fire on ship with chemicals, Cyclone Yaas brews trouble

May 27,2021 | Source: AFP

Sri Lankan authorities battled Wednesday to put out a fire raging for a week on a stricken container ship loaded with chemicals to avoid a potential marine environmental disaster. The Singapore-registered vessel, within sight of the shore, is carrying 25 tonnes of nitric acid as well as other unspecified chemicals and cosmetics, the navy said.



Eight of its nearly 1,500 containers fell overboard on Tuesday, one of which washed ashore at the Negombo tourist beach 40 kilometres (25 miles) north of Colombo. Strong winds associated with a cyclone hitting eastern India hampered efforts to put out the blaze as a huge cloud of black smoke rose from the MV X-Press Pearl.



Sri Lankas airforce used helicopters to drop about 425 kilograms (935 pounds) of fire retardant chemicals on the ship Wednesday. Dharshani Lahandapura from the Marine Environment Protection Authority said containment measures were being prepared in case chemicals or fuel oil are spilled from the ships engine and fuel tanks.



Computer modelling showed any spill from the ship will reach the Negombo beach and we are ready to tackle it," Lahandapura told reporters in Colombo. Given the monsoon wind pattern, we are concentrating on this area and we are moving equipment to deal with a spill," she said.



Navy spokesman Captain Indika de Silva said the 25-member crew had been evacuated safely but one had been hospitalised with minor injuries. The container ship was on its way to Colombo from Gujarat in India when the fire broke out on deck on May 20 around 14 kilometres (7.5 nautical miles) offshore.



Residents in Negombo were seen scavenging plastic raw materials that washed ashore on Wednesday morning. Tugs and naval ships were leading the efforts to douse the blaze and three Indian coastguard vessels were expected to join the effort later Wednesday.



India already sent another ship and an aircraft on Tuesday to assess the damage and coordinate fire-fighting efforts, the Sri Lanka navy said. In September, a crude oil tanker caught fire off Sri Lankas eastern coast after an engine room explosion that killed a crewman. That fire was put out after more than a week with the help of Indias coastguard.

 2020 Cable News Network LP, LLLP. A Time Warner Company. All rights reserved

Theme(s): Others.
Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism elects new chairman

May 27,2021 | Source: MENAFN

The newly elected chair of the Ministerial Council of the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) Saboto S. Caesar, minister of agriculture, rural transformation, forestry and fisheries of St Vincent and the Grenadines, has urged fellow ministers responsible for fisheries across the Caribbean to prioritize the Blue Economy as the region seeks to strengthen COVID-19 recovery efforts.



The ''Blue Economy'' is an emerging concept which encourages better use and conservation of the ocean or ''blue'' resources to boost economic growth and to tackle unemployment, food security and poverty.



The Ministerial Council has been forced to meet virtually since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, but that has not stopped them from making monumental progress in steering the fisheries and aquaculture sector forward, with carefully designed policies and plans, despite very challenging times.



Minister Caesar, who was elected as chair of the CRFM Ministerial Council on Friday, May 21, 2021, to succeed minister Ezechiel Joseph of Saint Lucia, has assumed leadership with a resolute commitment, even as his home country is striving to overcome double tragedy, with the recent eruption of La Soufriere volcano amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Minister Caesar has held the position of minister of fisheries in St Vincent and the Grenadines for over a decade and is a lawyer by profession.



Prior to the pandemic and the explosive volcanic eruptions of 2021, St Vincent and the Grenadines stood out among the countries that were registering significant improvements in the export trade of its fisheries commodities. Although some CRFM Member States have been seeing declining exports coupled with a growing import bill to meet domestic demand for fish and fishery products, St Vincent and the Grenadines continued to register growth in trade for 2019 and 2020.



During the recent CRFM Ministerial Council meeting, the ministers received the latest updates on status and trends in fisheries and aquaculture, as documented in the ''CRFM Statistics and Information Report 2019/2020,'' which the ministers have endorsed for publication. The evidence provided in the report demonstrated that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on activities in the fisheries sector, including production, as well as exports and imports of fish and fishery products.



These impacts were documented in even more detail through regional assessments which the CRFM Secretariat conducted during 2020 and 2021, aimed at providing insights to support the reorientation of the fisheries and aquaculture sector. Member States will convene follow-up meetings to advance post-COVID-19 response and recovery, in line with the CARICOM COVID-19 Agri-Food Action Plan and Risk Management Framework.



The CRFM is involved in several initiatives to help Member States address the myriad challenges that confront them, and these initiatives have integrated elements to address and mitigate COVID-19 impacts, as well as a prior mandate of the Ministerial Council to address gender, youth, and decent in all CRFM policies, protocols, programmes, and plans. At their meeting last week, the ministers also approved the Gender Analysis, Strategy and Action Plan on Gender Mainstreaming in Fisheries for the CRFM countries, which the CRFM developed through a recently concluded project funded by Global Affairs Canada in collaboration with UNDP/ GEF supported Flyingfish Sub-project of the CLME+ Project.



The ministers also welcomed and expressed their support for the Copenhagen Declaration on Transnational Organized Crime in the Global Fishing Industry and the Blue Justice Initiative established with Norwegian support to help countries (particularly developing countries) to work together and build their capacity to prevent, deter and eradicate IUU fishing and transnational organized crime in the global fishing industry.



Other initiatives considered by the meeting include the ''Sargassum Products for Climate Resilience in the Caribbean'' 3-year initiative, funded by New Zealand, which will explore the potential opportunities for countries to generate revenue from high-end products to be made from Sargassum; the proposed GEF/Development Bank of Latin American/ FAO ''Caribbean Blue Economy Project entitled, Promoting National Blue Economy Priorities Through Marine Spatial Planning in the Caribbean Large Marine Ecosystem Plus (BE-CLME+ Project); the Japan-funded COASTFISH project, which will advance co-management of coastal fisheries; as well as the recently launched EU-funded sanitary and phytosanitary systems project aimed at addressing quality control and safety of fish exports and imports, and which is expected to help drive an important engine for economic growth through increased international trade opportunities.



The meeting further agreed on approaches to ensure that CARICOM States are prepared to meet the requirements of the USA Marine Mammals Act which will take effect in 2022 and avoid interruption in flow of fish and fishery products to the US market. Finally, the meeting discussed and provided guidance on the ongoing World Trade Organization initiative to conclude a legally binding agreement to prohibit harmful subsidies that contribute to IUU fishing and overfishing, as well as the Intergovernmental Conference, under the auspices of the United Nations, to elaborate the text of an international legally binding instrument under the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction.



The executive director of the CRFM, Milton Haughton, said:



"The 15 meeting of the Ministerial Council of the CRFM was a very productive and successful meeting with extremely useful and informed contributions from policy makers and senior officials from across the region. The level of engagement and enthusiasm of policymakers confirmed that there is a bright future for fisheries and aquaculture in the post-covid-19 economic recovery and food security of the Caribbean region."



The Regional Fisheries Ministers are due to meet again in October 2021 for their 11th Special Meeting, when they are expected to, among other things, consider a Resource Mobilization Strategy, a Remote Work Policy and the Third CRFM Strategic Plan, to chart the way forward for the next 8 years (2022-2030). The CRFM has committed to involving stakeholders from all 17 Member States and international development partners in crafting a plan that will give life to the collective vision and aspiration of the people across the region.

 2000 MENAFN. All rights reserved.

Theme(s): Fisheries Development and Aquaculture.
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2nd Qingdao Multinationals Summit slated for July

Xinhua) 13:58, May 27, 2021

Photo taken on May 24, 2018 shows the scenery of Qingdao City, east China's Shandong Province. (Xinhua/Guo Xulei)

BEIJING, May 26 (Xinhua) -- The second Qingdao Multinationals Summit scheduled from July 15 to 16 in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, will seek to promote high-quality opening-up and boost the development of multinational corporations in the country.

The summit will discuss the role of multinational companies in reshaping the global industrial chain, Vice Commerce Minister Qian Keming told a press conference on Wednesday.

He added that a report to elaborate the role of multinationals in China's new development paradigm of "dual circulation" and new opportunities for their development under this paradigm will also be published.

So far, 330 representatives of 310 multinational companies from 26 countries and regions have signed up for offline events, together with 182 representatives from 169 multinational companies based in China, said Ji Binchang, vice governor of the province.

Co-hosted by China's Ministry of Commerce and the Shandong provincial government, the summit will witness a slew of activities including closed-door meetings, themed salons, parallel panels and roadshows, according to the vice governor.

The first Qingdao Multinationals Summit was held in October 2019 in Qingdao, with a total of 115 Fortune 500 companies and 284 industry leaders attending the event.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)




Prof. Ko Young-cho / Courtesy of LG Foundation
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By Yoon Ja-young



Illicit drugs, including methamphetamine, were detected in wastewater nationwide, implying that they may be in wider use than previously thought. The estimated per capita consumption, however, is still far lower than the figures in Australia or the EU, which have been monitoring their wastewater since a few years ago.



According to the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, various drugs, including methamphetamine, phendimetrazene, phentermine and methylphenidate, were detected in all 57 sewage treatment plants nationwide that it monitored from April 2020 to this April.



Propofol, ecstasy and amphetamine were detected in at least 20 of the sewage treatment plants, and a few of them included cocaine, ketamine and LSD.



The ministry has been analyzing the wastewater from the sewage treatment plants in order to measure and interpret drug use within the population, which will also allow officials to estimate per capita drug use. It is the first time for the country to try making this estimation with wastewater. The ministry plans to provide the investigators with the data on wastewater analysis and strengthen monitoring of sewage treatment plants that had a high proportion of illicit drugs detected there.



Use of these substances has been making headlines, including dozens of teenagers caught receiving narcotic painkillers from clinics. A Porsche driver, who caused a multiple-vehicle collision in Busan's tourist district of Haeundae while under the influence of drugs last year, was recently sentenced to five years in February.



It is estimated that 18 milligrams of methamphetamine was used per 1,000 people in Korea, which is 1.5 percent of Australia's estimate of 1,500 milligrams and around half of the EU's 35 milligrams.



The estimated cocaine use in Korea was 0.38 milligrams per 1,000 people, compared to Australia's 600 milligrams and the EU's 532 milligrams.



There are, however, restrictions in these estimates, as there could be drugs dumped directly into wastewater without entering human body, the ministry noted. It added that precipitation at the time when the wastewater was collected could have affected the per capita calculation.


Name: Ryan Davis

Organisation: NS1

Job title: CISO

Date started current role: January 2020

Location: Massachusetts

Ryan Davis is the CISO at NS1, the leader in modern application and access networking. Davis joined NS1 this March with more than 15 years of experience in information technology and security. He previously served as CISO and CIO at software security firm Veracode, where he led global IT operations, security and threat management, and risk and compliance. Prior to Veracode, he supported Department of Defense customers while holding several information assurance roles at MITs Lincoln Laboratory. Daviss appointment as CISO helps to unify corporate security strategy while introducing a more cohesive narrative around security as a company differentiator.

What was your first job? My first job was working as a camp counselor at a YMCA day camp. Managing 10 screaming 7 year-olds and keeping them entertained for 8 hours was no easy task, but its probably where my passion for working with people started. And I got paid to be outside, which is something I love.

How did you get involved in cybersecurity? My mother ran a secretarial service business out of our home, so we had multiple computers in the house. I started tinkering with computers when I was very young and quickly mastered a number of MS-DOS games. As I got older, I took a typical path for a young wannabe hacker, starting with message boards on the internet and computer groups in high school. For me it was never about any type of gain, merely proving that I could skirt the system or take advantage of weaknesses in the system. Today that mentality still helps me think about what are the types of things we need to safeguard against; with a far more skilled set of adversaries.

What was your education? Do you hold any certifications? What are they? In high school, I had the privilege to take some basic computer science classes through a collaborative program at Bowdoin College. This is where I got my first real formal education with anything IT related. (It is also where I learned that I had no desire to become a programmer!)

I went on to pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Networking at Champlain College. During my tenure there, I enrolled in a secondary newly created Bachelors program called in Information Security. Going to school year-round I was able to graduate with a degree in Computer Networking and another in Information Security.

Over the years I have obtained a handful of certifications including the Security+, CCSK, and am a Certified Scrum Master.

Explain your career path. Did you take any detours? If so, discuss. Like most entering the tech field, I started at the bottom of the totem pole as an intern, working closely with the IT Manager to expand existing Windows 2003 domain and implement new hardware and software throughout the company. I then held a number of help desk positions and worked my way up to network engineering and sysadmin positions. I then got involved in security after undergrad when I landed my first real position as a security analyst in the audit department at MIT Lincoln Laboratory. These positions werent as much of a detour as they were helping me build my skills toward a CISO role.

When I started at Veracode, I initially took a technical program management position and worked my way up to security program architect, information security manager and then as CISO, which is the post I hold at NS1. My time at Veracode gave me the opportunity to sit across the table from executives at Fortune 100 companies; it was a great way to understand how the largest enterprises build security programs.

Was there anyone who has inspired or mentored you in your career? I have had many mentors and mentees along my career path, but my first mentor was one with whom I did an internship in college. To him, I was the underdog for the position, but he saw qualities in me that he felt were more valuable than grades or extracurricular activities. And I proved him right. One (of many) pieces of advice I have taken throughout my career - go outside of your comfort zone and take risks.

What do you feel is the most important aspect of your job? The single most important aspect of my job as a CISO is being the voice and face of security for the company. When we are interacting with customers and prospects, It is important to instill trust that were proceeding in a secure way. Internally, I need to do the same plus ask the hard questions and ensure security is a priority for every member of our team.

Despite being a front-page news topic many days, Security is something that still very much needs to be advocated for. Above all else, I am an advocate for making security a part of our business and a key to our success.

What metrics or KPIs do you use to measure security effectiveness? The most important KPI in security is the ability to identify and remediate issues in a timely fashion. The business relies on the security team to identify weaknesses in our own defense and in turn figure out how to quickly respond to mitigate any potential threat that weakness poses.

As a metric that often takes the form of a number of vulnerabilities, flaws, weaknesses, compared to the time to resolution of those items. In business terms, this translates to risk identification and risk reduction.

Is the security skills shortage affecting your organisation? What roles or skills are you finding the most difficult to fill? The dramatic shift to the cloud in the last 5 - 10 years has left a skills gap in security. Everyone is looking for cloud security architects, but there are only a handful of them out there. The challenge is finding people with enough of a cloud background to offer additional knowledge beyond the skills of a traditional security practitioner.

Cybersecurity is constantly changing  how do you keep learning? Cybersecurity challenges and solutions change dynamically, and I like to keep up with technical and security news, as well as general business trends. I listen to podcasts with security leaders and practitioners. I am also a member of a security working group consisting of more than 200 CISOs worldwide and with whom I can learn and share ideas. At one time I actually attended security conferences in person.

What conferences are on your must-attend list? RSA and Black Hat / DEF CON are must-attend conferences on my list. They are the biggest and a great networking opportunity. DEF CON take me back to my roots!

What is the best current trend in cybersecurity? The worst? Supply chain security is probably the best trend. No matter the market you are in, all companies rely on third parties to conduct business. As an industry, we need to hold the businesses we rely on to the same high bar we expect our own companies to achieve. This past year has only continued to highlight that importance.

Buzzwords are the worst. Every year, there seem to be new marketing terms for the same security problems. If there were truly silver bullet solutions we would have all implemented them a long time ago. While I whole-heartedly believe in security innovation, the sheer amount of marketing fluff only complicates the problem.

What's the best career advice you ever received? I have two pieces of career advice to share. The first is dont stop thinking about whats next. Although its nearly impossible for any tech leader to predict the future, we should always be aware of trends and be mindful of what our company and customers will need, and do our best to anticipate those needs. The second best piece of career advice I received is make sure youre building your brand. As a security leader, its important to have my own goals and expertise to share within my company and with my customers and peers. You dont have to be an expert on everything but be an expert on at least one thing, this way you will have something to contribute to your peers.

What advice would you give to aspiring security leaders? I advise aspiring security leaders to continually invest in their education. Dont stop learning. If you rest on your laurels, it will pass you by. Think about what you learn now that will be helpful in your next role. And always seek out mentors to gain as much knowledge and experience because, one day, youll be that mentor.

What has been your greatest career achievement? My career-long goal was to become a CISO and here I am! Being a people person, I get personal satisfaction helping others succeed. I have built some great teams and had some amazing employees but seeing them go on and do great things is a huge reward for me.

Looking back with 20:20 hindsight, what would you have done differently? I am a strong subscriber to the ethos that with every mistake we can learn from even in some small way. Have I made my share of mistakes? Absolutely. But I have done my best to learn from them. I dont think there is any major thing I would go back to change for that reason.
This is a contributed article by Pip White MD for Google Cloud, UK&I.

The last year has seen rapid change for most global organisations. With much of the world experiencing some sort of lockdown throughout the year, businesses of all sizes found themselves quickly transitioning to a remote workforce and adopting new ways to collaborate. At the same time, the UK was working towards completing its exit from the European Union.

For many UK enterprises this meant balancing the immediate pressures of these two events with long-term digital transformation and innovation strategies. A recent study by IDG found that UK organisations have faced tension between responding to events that have required reactive measures and their more long-term innovation goals.

Heading into 2021, its become clear that IT leaders must ensure that the urgency to adapt to the practical challenges posed in the last year does not threaten future IT priorities and business objectives. For many the answer lies in the cloud and supporting technologies, which will play a key role in supporting key initiatives. But first its important to understand how the pandemic has impacted digital transformation in the UK and the steps that IT and business leaders can take to overcome existing barriers to innovation.

Immediate impact on the industry

IDG asked IT leaders across Europe how the pandemic has impacted the way they work and what initiatives businesses introduced to support remote working.

For context, the study found that 51% of organisations ranked as digitally forward, suggesting that they were either completely digitally transformed or on the way to being transformed. This was significantly lower than 67% in France and 62% in Germany, suggesting that the UK is perhaps lagging behind in this regard. Interestingly though, less than a third of UK business leaders said that the COVID-19 pandemic heavily impacted their organisations, whereas in the rest of Europe it was slightly higher in French (33%) and German (34%) organisations.

When looking deeper at UK IT leaders approach to their organisations priorities, this is where the growing disconnect between short-term reactive decisions and long-term objectives started to become more apparent. When the pandemic was spreading across the world, unsurprisingly over half (58%) of UK organisations started to introduce initiatives to improve remote working and support employee communication and collaboration.

However, with the industry also preparing for Brexit, there were signs of belt-tightening and a focus on maximising returns from existing IT infrastructure - over a third (36%) of organisations launched or hastened the optimisation of existing products or services. Further results found that the UK was more cautious in accelerating some technologies over others. For example, perhaps more innovation-centric technologies such as automation and analytics were lower on the list of priorities - likely down to a number of factors including cost, regulation and skillset.

On the other hand, nearly 40% of businesses accelerated or launched initiatives around digital customer experience and cloud-native software development. The findings show that IT leaders opted to pursue some digital initiatives at the same time as slowing or canceling efforts in similar areas.

Shifting priorities across all industries

Maximising existing products and services in the wake of the pandemic appeared to be an industry-agnostic exercise. In the retail sector, organisations prioritised customers by focusing on customer service and support, with acquisitions and retention next in line. Moreover, product lifecycle management and store and facilities operations also became a top priority for the retail industry in 2021 - pointing to growing concerns around dealing with the ongoing uncertainties around demand.

In other verticals, forward-looking priorities such as product and service development, which originally topped the list for organisations in 2020, went down to sixth place for 2021. This trend was particularly evident for the financial services and healthcare sectors, where it fell by 16%, indicating a nervousness around what the impacts of a post-pandemic environment could potentially have on their business. At the same time, it also nods to potential uncertainty over the future of the free flow of data within the EU.

Sales and marketing was on the opposite trajectory however, rising from fifth place in the list of 2020 priorities to first place this year. This was particularly evident in the manufacturing, industrial, transportation and logistics sector where sales and marketing increased by 20% from last year. As businesses try to recoup lost sales and revenue from months of closures or disruption, its perhaps unsurprising that they are putting renewed efforts into their sales and marketing functions.

Cloud as the solution

So, what can businesses do to ensure they can respond to reactive events such as the pandemic but also ensure the longer-term alignment of IT priorities? This challenging time has introduced an opportunity for IT leaders to embrace emerging technologies such as the cloud.

Cloud computing has played an important and distinguishable role within the IT ecosystem and enabled millions of people around the world to continue to operate and work from home over the last year. Its no surprise then that 67% of UK business leaders have leaned on cloud providers for support to help them shape their business objectives and digital approach to better respond to the headwinds of 2021.

The effects of the pandemic disrupted the working landscape last year which had meant that UK IT leaders had to rethink their working strategies. Across the board, the survey findings have revealed that there are no doubt tensions between the short-term business needs brought about by the challenges the UK faced in the last year, and the need for digital transformation in the long term. Over the course of 2021, well likely see IT leaders continue to battle this conundrum.

Whilst the long-term impacts of the last year are somewhat uncertain, whats clear is that many businesses are turning to the cloud as a solution to this disconnect and a business-critical tool for a digital-led future.
'No one is above the law': Colville Tribes wins fuel tax lawsuit
Israeli-Palestinian journalists have been attacked and harassed while covering demonstrations and clashes in Israel, according to a new report by the Ilam- Arab Center for Media Freedom . The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) calls on the Israeli authorities to investigate every incident to make sure all journalists can carry out their duties without being targeted or harassed.

Israeli security forces and Palestinian Muslim worshippers clash in Jerusalem's al-Aqsa mosque compound, the third holiest site of Islam, on May 21, 2021. AHMAD GHARABLI / AFP

The Ilam - Arab Center for Media Freedom, Development and Research is supported by Palestinian intellectuals and journalists active in the fields of civil society, media and research. According to its latest report, released on 26 May, Israeli security forces are responsible for most of the attacks against journalists and media workers who were covering civilian demonstrations in the last few weeks in Arab Israeli cities as well as Jerusalem, despite them being clearly identified as media workers.

The report documents 13 incidents where journalists were attacked, harassed or injured. 11 of these cases were committed by Israeli security forces, one by an Israeli Jewish mob and one case involved a journalist injured by shrapnel from a rocket launched by Hamas while covering the news near the southern city of Ashkelon.

Hassan Shaalan working for Yenet was attacked by security forces on 8 May while he was covering protests in Jerusalem.

Saher Ghazzawi from online media Mawteni News was attacked by security forces as he was covering protests in Al-Aqsa and was hit by a rubber bullet and injured.

rubber bullet Ramah Maufid from Musawa Channel was hit by a rubber bullet as she was reporting live on 10 May

rubber bullet Majed Daniel from Musawa Channel was attacked by police officers as he was covering the arrest of a young man in Haifa with his team and was banned from reporting.

Mohamed Khatib from Musawa Channel was attacked by settlers who destroyed his car on 11 May

Racha Oumri working for Al Madina Newspaper was arrested at his home by security forces on 14 May for allegedly inciting violence

Freelance journalist Ahmed Azaiza was arrested by security forces at his home on 11 May for allegdely inciting violence

Anes Moussa from online media Oum Al-Fahem was hit by a rubber bullet as he was conducting a live interview on 11 May

rubber bullet Yanl Jabarine working for Haaretz newspaper and Mahmoud Jabarine from online media Oum Al-Fahem were attacked by security forces on 16 May while they were covering protests in Umm al- Fahm

Wadih Awouda from Al Quds Alarabi newspaper was threatened by security forces on 15 may

Ilyas Karam from Al Jazzera was injured by schrapnel from a rocket launched on Gaza on 19 May

Sabrine Dyabe from Al Binaa newspaper Lebanon was arrested by security forces on 23 may. Her equipment was seized and she was prevented from communicating with her team.

According to the testimonies collected, the Israeli security forces' attempts to eradicate journalists and prevent the media from reporting on the events aim to provide the official Israeli narrative with legitimacy and credibility in front of the world," the Center said. Eradicating journalists is not only violating national and international laws, it also undermines the peoples right to know the facts, which it appears Israel is trying to hide.

Ilam expressed its frustrations over the lack of response from several security agencies towards the protection of journalists.

IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger said: All these incidents must be thoroughly investigated and those responsible must be punished. Israeli authorities must also listen to the concerns of Israeli Palestinian journalists to enable them to operate in a safe working enviornment and prevent future attacks.




Updated 31 May. The head of the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate (PJS) has called on the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) to condemn attacks on media and to send a commission to investigate the crimes against journalists in Palestine. The call came during a special session of the HRC on the situation on situation in the occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem held on 27 May 2021.

Update: On 27 May the HRC adopted a resolution establishing a commission of inquiry to investigate Human rights violations and abuses in the occupied palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem, and in Israel, up to and since 13 April 2021.

The International Federation of Journalists welcomed the call and demanded an end to impunity for attacks carried out against journalists and media in Palestine.

In recent weeks Israeli forces have bombed and destroyed three buildings housing 33 media companies, dozens of journalists have been arrested, beaten and more than 500 cases of internet blocks and violations of digital rights were recorded in Palestine between 6 and 29 May.

Naser Abubaker, President of the PJS said: In clear violation of International law, the Fourth Geneva Convention and United Nations resolutions to protect journalists in times of war, the Israeli occupation forces committed a crime against humanity by bombing buildings holding press and media offices, which led to the destruction of international media institutions offices such as Al-Jazeera and the Associated Press. 33 media institutions were completely destroyed and 4 institutions were partially destroyed, in addition dozens of journalists' homes were bombarded and destroyed, which led to the killing of Al-Aqsa radio broadcaster Yusef Abu Hussein and the wounding of dozens of journalists."

In 2020 the PJS documented 608 attacks on journalists and media, including 490 violations by the Israeli army and security forces.

In December last year the IFJ submitted formal complaints to the UN about the systematic targeting of journalists by Israel and called for action to end the impunity with which those attacks are carried out.

hrcmeetings.ohchr.org/HRCSessions/SpecialSessions/30session/Documents/A_HRC_RES_S-30_1_AdvanceEditedVersion.docx
Last March, Morgan DeBaun prepared for the worst. Her company Blavity, a media platform that covers stories for and about Black Millennials, braced for a drop in advertising and overall cash flow. The 31-year-old founder and CEO sent her 70 full-time employees home, took a 30 percent pay cut, and started selling the furniture in her now-empty Los Angeles office. DeBaun says she wanted to keep as many people on payroll as possible, but furloughs, layoffs, and salary cuts followed.

And then the challenges compounded. When the murder of George Floyd sparked protests, DeBaun asked her leaner team to shift into overdrive, reporting on how the news was affecting the Black community. "We were kind of going into hibernation with Covid," she says, "then George Floyd got murdered. And so at the exact time that we were ramping down, it was our responsibility to ramp up." Blavity.com saw an increase in traffic, says DeBaun, but advertising came to a full stop. "Companies were worried about their brands being positioned next to riots and protests," she says.

After a tough year of tough decisions, DeBaun says Blavity has come out on the other side in a stronger position. And, just as important, the experience has shaken up how she wants to operate the company, which she founded in 2014 and has since raised more than $12 million in funding.

While Blavity declined to reveal revenue figures, it noted that the third quarter of 2020 was its best quarter ever for revenue--and more than 15,000 people attended its virtual weeklong AfroTech conference in November, up from 10,000 in-person attendees in 2019. By December, DeBaun had paid back all the wages that had been cut in the early stages of the pandemic to the full-time employees who stayed. Advertising revenue has returned to pre-pandemic levels.

DeBaun says asking her team to do more work during an emotionally trying period was an especially difficult decision, and it wasn't without fallout. Five of her employees got burned out and left Black media entirely. "It's a huge burden to be a Black journalist," she says, "Constantly covering Black death is exhausting." She says she tried to offset the pressure by holding regular town halls, holding daily meditation sessions, awarding employees cash for self-care expenses, and offering extra vacation days as protests and the pandemic continued.

As she thinks about what employees will need post-pandemic and what makes the most sense for the business, DeBaun says she doesn't plan to bring her full team back to L.A. In fact, she's ditching Blavity's office for good.

Keeping the office remote makes jobs more accessible to people with families, those who need to take care of their parents, and employees who need to work around their children's schedules, she says. She fears a hybrid team could create cliques of in-office workers versus out-of-office workers. "The overhead of an office is significant, so you either go all in or you don't," says DeBaun.

There's a practical aspect to the calculation too. Many of DeBaun's employees, of which more than half are women, moved away to places such as Cleveland, New York, and Costa Rica during the pandemic, and DeBaun says she'd likely lose talent if she required them to return to L.A. Plus, she has hired 40 more people, including executives with management experience to help grow the platform, who are spread out across the U.S. To keep the team connected, she plans to hold more company retreats and smaller gatherings in different places around the country, and she'll also be traveling frequently by herself to meet people in person.

Of course, many businesses have made similar moves--including tech companies like Twitter and Facebook. But Blavity is a media company founded on the concept of community. The term Blavity stands for "Black gravity," which DeBaun says describes the feeling of comfort in gathering with other Black people. Arguably, Blavity has a lot more to potentially lose in ditching the office--the team's communal gathering place--particularly because Blavity hasn't always created the most cohesive space for its employees. But DeBaun says most of her team is happy with her decision, and she's planning to announce additional resources for those who might want to have a co-working space. "I'm never going to please all the people all the time," she says.

As a young and first-time CEO, that's a truth she's learned the hard way. Several years ago, DeBaun realized her employees were leaving her less-than-flattering reviews on the employer-review website Glassdoor. She went to her co-founders and to her board to discuss her blind spots and held a companywide listening session. Her employees expressed frustration with her leadership style and said she didn't trust them to make independent decisions. "I had some people say, 'Hey, you're holding on too much--like we are in danger, and we're not in danger anymore,' " DeBaun says.

DeBaun says she began to spend more of her time setting the company's vision and communicating her goals--leaving the way to get there up to her team. "I thought I had to project this perfect image of always knowing the right answer," she says. "Over time I've realized, you know, there's actually a lot of power in getting advice, seeking counsel from other people, and then making a decision."

For DeBaun and her team, the majority of which is Black, the challenge and stress of last summer wasn't anything new. "I've always been Black and they've always been Black, so adversity and challenges and death are a part of our lives," she says. DeBaun launched Blavity in part out of frustration with how mainstream media was covering (or failing to cover) the shooting of 18-year-old Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, in 2014. Last summer was more challenging because of the pandemic, but DeBaun says it made her realize the importance of having everyone on the same page in terms of the company's mission and decision-making principles.
After many delays, the Friends reunion is finally airing.

HBO Max originally announced the programme in February 2020, but it had to be postponed several times due to the coronavirus pandemic, which made an in-person reunion impossible.

The special marks the first time Matthew Perry, David Schwimmer, Matt LeBlanc, Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, and Lisa Kudrow have reunited in front of TV cameras since Friends ended in 2004.

Here is everything you need to know about Friends: The Reunion:

When is the special airing?

In the US, the reunion special is available to stream as of Thursday (27 May) on HBO Max. A TV broadcast isnt currently scheduled in the US.

In the UK, viewers are able to stream the special on NOQW. It will also air tonight (27 May) on Sky One at 8pm BST.

When was the special filmed?

On 11 April, the official, verified account for Friends shared an image of a screen  presumably from the set  bearing the words: Friends  the reunion.

The accompanying caption reads: Thats a wrap! Could we BE anymore excited!? Friends: The Reunion is coming to @hbomax.

Prior to that, another clue came when, according to Deadline, Perry shared a photo of himself in a make-up chair before reuniting with my Friends. The post has since been taken down, but screenshots have been circulating.

Schwimmer had also announced earlier in April that he was flying to Los Angeles to film the reunion special.

What does the special look like?

Friends: The Reunion is unscripted, meaning the actors arent be in character. Instead, they sat together and discussed the show and their memories of it as themselves.

The special was filmed on the sitcoms original soundstage on the Warner Bros Studio lot in Burbank, California.

The programme also features a host of guest stars, some of whom appeared on the show during its original run. Lady Gaga, David Beckham, James Corden, and many more are set to join the reunion. For a full list of guest stars on the special, click here.

Matt LeBlanc, Courteney Cox, Matthew Perry, Lisa Kudrow, Jennifer Aniston, and David Schwimmer (Getty Images)

Why is there so much excitement about the reunion special?

Two reasons: one, the HBO Max special marks the first reunion featuring all six main cast members. There was a reunion in 2016 without Perry, and the reviews were mixed. Expectations are higher than ever this time around.

Two, the Friends reunion special was one of the biggest TV programmes delayed by the pandemic  think No Time to Die, but for the television world. Producers chose not to film it via Zoom and held out for the real thing instead. Needless to say, fans are more than ready to dive in.
Its almost time for the much-anticipated Friends Reunion special.

Airing on 27 May, the unscripted episode will reunite the shows stars for an emotional celebration of the hit sitcom.

Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Jennifer Aniston, Matt LeBlanc, David Schwimmer, and Matthew Perry are all going to be seen in the special episode returning to the sitcoms original set in Burbank, California.

Not just that, the shows producers have added a string of surprise guest stars, including Lady Gaga, James Corden, and Reese Witherspoon.

David Beckham, Justin Bieber, and BTS will also be featured, alongside Cindy Crawford, Cara Delevingne, Kit Harington, Mindy Kaling, and Malala Yousafzai.

It feels like talk of this epic reunion has been around forever, so youre presumably pondering when youll be able to watch it.

The main broadcast will run on HBO Max on Wednesday at 3 AM ET in the US, and below is the rundown of channels, timings and streaming services where people in Asia can view the episode.

India

Indian fans can watch the special reunion episode along with the rest of the world on 27 May at 12:32 pm local time. Streaming platform Zee5 has confirmed that it will stream the episode simultaneously as it premieres on HBO Max in the US.

Chief Business Officer at ZEE5 India, Manish Kalra, said in a statement: We expect high demand from users and would urge them to avail FRIENDS: THE REUNION Special unlimited viewing offer at least 12 hours in advance before the launch for a seamless experience. We are all geared up to make this a resounding success in India along with the rest of the world.

The yearly plan is the only available subscription to access the Zee5 streaming service costing Rs 499.

Malaysia

Malaysian fans will be able to catch the reunion special on HBO GO at 3.01 pm local time on 27 May with a same-day broadcast on HBO (Astro Ch 411 HD) at 9 pm.

Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam

Indonesia Thailand, and Vietnam fans can watch the reunion special on HBO GO at 2 pm on 27 May.

Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong

Philippines, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Singapore fans can watch the reunion special on HBO GO at 3.01 pm on 27 May.

The show will likewise broadcast on HBO later on the same day at 9pm in the Philippines.

UAE, Saudi Arabia

UAE and Saudi Arabia fans can exclusively watch the series on the OSN streaming service at 11.01 am GST on 27 May. It can be accessed via websites and all mobile iOS and Android devices.

The streaming service costs $9.50 (Dhs35) per month and includes a free seven-day trial.

Australia

Australian Friends fans will get to watch the reunion via Foxtel and streaming service BINGE at 5.02pm AEST on Thursday.

The streaming services executive director Alison Hurbert-Burns said: The reunion will continue to be available on BINGE after Thursday, allowing people to watch on-demand when best suits them or re-watch over and over again.
After years of not-so patiently waiting, its finally time. Friends: The Reunion will bring together the six beloved sitcom stars for an hour-long special on May 27, more than 17 years after the final episode aired.

In the words of Janice Litman-Goralnik: Oh. My. God.

Friends fever has swept the globe, and its got us feeling very nostalgic for the Nineties (and Noughties), and in particular the wardrobe of the shows undisputed style icon, played by Jennifer Aniston

As we indulge in the long-awaited reunion, these are the Rachel Green outfits were still lusting after today.

1. The cheerleader outfit

She may have put it on as a joke, but this red and white cheerleader outfit is classic Rachel. From the pom-poms to the pop socks, its cute and a little bit sexy.

2. The apron

Rachels signature look during her Central Perk waitressing years involved tight tops, mini skirts and a seemingly endless supply of adorable little aprons, like this floral number from season two.

3. The jeans and T-shirt

David Schwimmer and Jennifer Aniston in the Warner Bros. TV series'Friends'

Now that mom jeans are back in fashion, this simple but stylish white tee and faded denim combination is so on-trend.

4. The pyjamas

Lisa Kudrow, Jennifer Aniston, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, Courteney Cox and David Schwimmer in the Warner Bros TV series Friends

Even Rachels pyjamas were cool in a typically Nineties way. She wore this lumberjack shirt and shorts while playing Twister in season one.

5. The alternate reality outfit

OK, so together, the cow print jacket, fluffy purple top and pink leopard print trousers are a bit much, but youd find any of those items in the shops today. As seen in The One That Could Have Been, alternate reality Rachels style is a lot more colourful than regular Rachels.

6. The black dress

Lisa Kudrow, Jennifer Aniston, Matthew Perry, Courteney Cox and David Schwimmer in the Warner Bros TV series Friends

Of course she opted out of fancy dress for the Halloween party in season eight, instead donning a chic strapless black dress  LBDs were a Rachel staple in later seasons.

7. The shirtdress

David Schwimmer and Jennifer Aniston in the Warner Bros. TV series Friends

Rachels workwear during her Ralph Lauren years consisted of lots of sharp tailoring, like this elegant grey shirtdress.

8. The floral dress

David Schwimmer, Jennifer Aniston and Lisa Kudrow in the Warner Bros. TV series Friends

Theres something a bit Carrie Bradshaw about this Fifties style frock from season seven, which Rachel accessorised with a neat ponytail and matching white scrunchy.

9. The grey coat

Still from The One with the Blind Dates featuring Jon Lovitz and Jennifer Aniston

In later seasons, as her career progressed, Rachel really upped her fashion game. This embroidered grey wool coat with black leather gloves and a very Noughties handbag from season nine is a perfect example.

10. The halter dress

Jennifer Aniston and Matt LeBlanc in the Warner Bros. TV series Friends

A standout look from season 10, Rachel wore this halterneck floral dress when the Friends decamped to Barbados to attend Rosss palaeontology conference.

11. The plane outfit

Before she famously got off the plane in the final episode, Rachel was looking very stylish in a monochrome tank top, T-shirt, mini skirt and boots ensemble, no doubt intended to impress when she landed in Paris.
The first time I visited Prawn on the Lawn was at the Padstow outpost  a tiny hole-in-the-wall establishment hidden in the back streets of the seaside town. When I walked up to its unassuming door, I truly thought Id found my idea of heaven. In the depths of lockdown, when I was about as far away from the ocean as you can get and truly missing the incandescent beauty of real life and the splendour of a dinner out, it was often my first meal at Prawn on the Lawn that I dreamt of. Perhaps influenced by that slightly giddy holiday feeling and the fact that we were a stones throw from the port where the fish we were eating was brought in, it was one of the best meals I could remember in recent history.

I have returned a few times since, both to the expanded Prawn on the Farm  the summertime pop-up just outside of Padstow developed off the back of Covid-19 and pandemic restrictions  and to the London iteration. Arriving at the latter, I was nervous. How could you recreate the magic of eating seafood literal steps from the sea? Instead, we were smack bang in the middle of Islington, soundtracked by the never-ending thrum of cars careening down St Pauls Road. I had simultaneously high and low expectations  on the one hand hoping the food was as good as I remembered, and on the other believing it surely couldnt be. And yet, it was. Of course, it was. Even on my most recent visit, one week back to indoor dining, it proved that not even the knock-on effect of the lockdown can break its stride.

Starting its life as a fishmonger in that very same north London location, Prawn on the Lawn originally only had a compact eight-cover seafood bar, serving up cured and cold bites with zero cooking involved thanks to a lack of anything resembling a kitchen. The understandably exponential rise in popularity led to a cooker being fitted, a larger dining space being sought and the introduction of a constantly rotating selection of small plates  but the bones of the operation still remained the same. The Padstow restaurant came later, in part thanks to owners Rick and Katie Toogoods constant trips down to Cornwall to source their ingredients. It would take a whopper of a spot to rival the place often nicknamed Padstein thanks to Rick Steins seafood-laden influence on the town, and yet, Prawn on the Lawn managed to carve out a space for itself that complimented the existing establishments, rather than trying to emulate them.

You can find Prawn on the Lawns London iteration down St Pauls Road, where it first started as a fishmonger (Supplied)

There are two options for ordering when you visit Prawn on the Lawn. You can either opt for the fish or shellfish fresh off the boat that day, cooked whole with little intervention  simply served with your choice of sauce, or you can go for the small plates. While the former is a grand option, celebrating the restaurants central fishmonger-style ethos, I have never been able to look past the selection of tapas-style plates. Managing to be at once inventive, without overwhelming the delicacy of the seafood, the menu is ever-changing based on what the fishermen catch that day  so much so that items may even be wiped off the blackboard as you eat.

The restaurant has a strong relationship with its suppliers, one of which being Trevibban Mill, a low-intervention vineyard found just outside Padstow. I have made it a habit to start any meal at Prawn on the Lawn with a glass of the winerys Black Ewe pink sparkling, and it has always managed to bring a tiny hint of that holiday feeling I first felt in Padstow. Accompanied with half a dozen of whatever oysters they have on the board that day, and you have a cracking kick-off to any meal.

While the menu is never the same, a few items have cropped up regularly on my visits. The eponymous Prawn on the Lawn dish is deceptively simple. Essentially smashed avocado on toast topped with a zingy, citrus-dressed prawn, it is a perfectly balanced dish that sums up the restaurants approach to food. The seared tuna is always perfectly cooked, featherlight slices doused in a soy and mirin dressing that complements the meaty fish wonderfully.

The eponymous Prawn on the Lawn dish: deceptively simple, perfectly balanced (Molly Codyre)

Then comes the Szechuan prawns. Grilled til crisp, they are coated in a spice mix thats heavily spiked with numbing Szechuan pepper. Eating these is an almost out of body experience: spicy, salty, crunchy the coating so good you could mop it up with bread (which of course we did). Take this as your warning not to wear anything white or delicate  this is a plate that requires your hands, and leaves you covered top to toe in the stuff, but boy is it worth it. The tempura fish is another favourite  delicately battered and fried until crunchy, the accompanying nam jim sauce is lightly sweet and salty, mingling perfectly with the shatteringly crisp fish.

Whatever is on the menu when you visit, however, you can be sure itll be good. This weeks visit featured a salmon ceviche, topped with ras el hanout and hazelnuts, a blissful combination of lightly cured salmon, earthen spice and crunch. Previous trips have seen dishes like scallops and nduja, and crispy-skin fillets of fish accompanied by Mediterranean chickpeas, topped with dukkha.

Then there are the potatoes. Oh, the potatoes. The first time we ate them, my partner ordered a second round almost immediately, and I was certain that if the potatoes were a human, he would have begun a sordid love affair in an instant. Luckily for me (and for everyone, really) they sell the spice mix by the pouch  although Ive never quite been able to achieve the same lustful level of crunch.

I must admit, Prawn on the Lawn holds a special place in my heart. But it takes a magical spot to be so consistently good, its joy transcending the salty shores of Padstow and brightening the gloomy streets of London. Rick and Katie have done something particularly lovely here, and diners both in the capital and out are all better off for it.
In this May 6, 2020, file photo, trees are felled at the top of a mountain behind Indong Community Office in Gumi, North Gyeongsang Province. The trees were cut down even before the district office launched an official business plan as to what to do with the land, according to a report by the Hankook Ilbo, sister paper of The Korea Times. Korea Times file





By Ko Dong-hwan







A major plan by Korea's state forest watchdog to harvest old trees in order to meet the country's goal of completely eradicating local carbon emissions by 2050 has drawn criticism from environmental activists, who say the plan is near-sighted and puts the country's long-conserved forests at risk.







The Korea Forest Service (KFS) announced on Jan. 20 that it will cut down 300 million "old" trees and plant 3 billion new trees to increase the overall carbon absorption capability of the country's forests. With the plan, the forest service estimated that the amount of local carbon emissions to be drawn in by trees will increase from 14 million to 26.8 million tons per year.







The plan will also allow new trees to absorb up to 2 million tons of carbon emissions from the air, and save an additional 5.2 million tons by allowing the country to replace fossil fuels, one of the country's top carbon emission sources, with lumber biomass  part of which will come from the 300 million cut-down trees  according to the agency.







The plan will thus eliminate 34 million tons of carbon emission annually starting by 2050, the KFS concluded.







But the activists' objection to the plan has been fierce.







Green Korea, a major NGO based in Seoul's Seongbuk District, accused the National Institute of Forest Service, a state research agency under the KFS, of masterminding the controversial plan, and condemned the state agency for its disregard for trees aged 30 years or older.







"We don't need a forestry service that is so near-sighted; it can only see the trees but not the forest," the group said in a public statement on April 19, adding that the government's tree harvest plan targets about 70 percent of the country's entire forests. The group highlighted that those trees are part of the country's rich forests that were planted in barren lands and mountains following the 1950-53 Korean War and have been conserved through decades of national forestation efforts that were launched in the 1960s.







"If the plan proceeds, all the trees 30 years or older in the country's national parks, protected forest areas and forest reserves along Baekdu Mountain Range will have to be fell," the group said.







Green Korea was most disturbed by the government considering local forests merely as a national tool for carbon absorption. The activist group believed that forests offer much more diverse "ecological services" to humans than that: providing food and natural chemical substances; balancing biological diversity, organic matter and energy; preventing natural disasters and fostering clean air; and sustaining spiritual, cultural and recreational necessities.







Conservation of biodiversity, in particular, was agreed upon in the 2010 U.N. Convention on Biological Diversity at COP 10 in Nagoya, Japan, the group mentioned, adding that member countries were to increase their local wildlife reserves on land and in oceans by at least 17 percent and 10 percent, respectively, by 2020.







"It was mankind's mission to preserve biodiversity," said the group, citing cases in which humans failed to do so, including breakouts of zoonotic diseases that caused extensive casualties worldwide like COVID-19, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), all of which were caused by humans' violations of the boundaries surrounding wildlife habitats.







"We cannot tolerate the government cutting down trees just to expand the country's resources to absorb carbon emissions" the group said. "We must take into account the overall benefits of our forests as we head to the national goal of carbon neutralization by 2050. The path and direction to meeting the goal must be sustainable and, at the same time, justifiable."







In this Dec. 20, 2018, file photo, swaths of deforested land is seen on Mount Yukbaek in Dogye District of Samcheok, Gangwon Province, after tree harvesting was approved by the Korea Forest Service to build a wind turbine farm there. Courtesy of Energy Transition Korea





Korea Federation for Environmental Movements (KFEM), another major activist group in Korea, also criticized the government's plan, saying it wrongfully targeted "old trees" that are actually young and actively growing trees aged between 31 and 40 just because their carbon absorption capability slowed down.







The group said, "The government didn't mention a significant fact that there are signs of ecological succession among Korean forests throughout the past 50 years since the national forestation project began, and that a variety of trees now exist because of that," the group said in a public statement released on May 12. "Old forests not only sustain biodiversity but also contain and isolate absorbed carbon emissions and mitigate climate change impacts. A large-scale tree harvesting will reduce forests' carbon-storing capability and raise the risks of wildfires and landslides."







The group said Korea shouldn't repeat the blunder by the United States' former Donald Trump administration that approved tree harvesting in the country's forest-protected areas after publicly announcing that it would commit to the One Trillion Tree initiative launched in the 2020 World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, to restore the global ecosystem.







"Planting trees is a good thing," Jung Myeong-hee from KFEM's ecological conservation department said. "But what has aroused public ire is that the government didn't mention in its plan it was going to bulldoze trees from 40 percent of the country's commercial forests  that's 900,000 hectares out of the country's entire commercial forests  to plant new trees."







In addition to 1.67 million hectares of local forests designated as protected national forests, the KFS designated one third of the country's overall 6.33 million hectares of large forests as commercial forests allowing tree harvest and other forestry activities. Jeong said that a thorough survey must be made even across the commercial forests to check whether there are trees created by ecological succession and thus in need of protection.







Korea Forest Service President Choi Byeong-am speaks during a special briefing at the government complex in Daejeon, May 17, as he explains the agency's controversial tree harvesting plan. Korea Times file





Following the series of condemnations, the KFS on May 17 held a special briefing at its headquarters at the government complex in Daejeon to explain the harvest plan.







The agency said the plan is still under consideration and the government is open to feedback from experts of various fields until September when it will decide on the plan as part of the country's carbon neutralization by 2050.







But the agency added that tree harvesting in the country has been carried out at insignificant levels compared to other OECD member nations. It said only 0.5 percent of the country's total forests are harvested each year on average, which ranks the country 27th among member nations in terms of local tree harvesting.







"Our country's self-sufficiency level of local lumber is only 16 percent," the state agency said. "We rely on New Zealand and other countries with advanced forestry to import trees to meet 84 percent of our country's demand for lumber materials."







The government added that 67 percent of the country's forests are privately owned. "We ask you to understand that trees in those sectors are private property," the government said. "For those in forestry, the ultimate objective in growing trees is to cut them down."







Following the controversy, the Ministry of Environment on May 20 requested the KFS to create a joint group of private experts and government officials that will examine the effectiveness of the controversial plan, according to local reports. Munwha Ilbo, a Korean daily, said the ministry "virtually deferred the forest watchdog's plan because it lacked proof and will likely destroy the environment beyond a reasonable degree."







"The environment ministry demanded the forest service to come up with a new plan that shows how the figures of reduced carbon emission by local forests are calculated, what types of trees will be planted in which regions, and how the plan will affect the country's ecological conservation," the paper said.


El Salvador's president sent 34,000 doses of coronavirus vaccine to seven towns in Honduras on Thursday, responding to video pleas from their mayors posted to social media.

The small-scale diplomacy by President Nayib Bukele raised eyebrows in El Salvador and Honduras, but most people agreed that ultimately it would benefit a population in desperate need of vaccine. El Salvador has been more successful than neighboring Honduras and Guatemala in obtaining vaccine, though all lag in vaccinating their people.

The highly public move also provided a distraction at a time of growing concern among some Salvadorans and international observers over the consolidation of power in El Salvadors three branches of government by the party led by Bukele, who is highly popular domestically.

On Tuesday, the same day Bukele met with White House Special Envoy Ricardo Zuniga, who expressed the U.S. government's reservations about developments in El Salvador, the president received the seven Honduran mayors and told them his government would help.

When I saw your videos, what I saw was a little desperation, Bukele told them. I said to the minister and the vaccine people in El Salvador: How can we help?

Early Thursday, seven refrigerated trucks left for Honduras carrying the doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine.

In one video, Amable de Jesus Hernandez, mayor of San Jose Colinas, said, Our people are dying of COVID, our government doesnt respond, thats why we come to you.

Carlos Galeano, the mayor of Santa Maria del Real, who also traveled to El Salvador for the vaccines, said Thursday he decided to make his plea because he wanted to help his community and the Honduran government was moving too slowly.

We didnt do it to confront the government, nor the political party that is in power, Galeano said, responding to critics who suggested the mayors were trying to embarrass Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez. We arent causing any damage to the country. Rather, we want to save lives.

The towns were to divide the doses according to their respective populations. Galeano said his town was getting 4,000 doses that would be given to senior citizens and teachers.

El Salvador has given at least a single dose to nearly 1 million people, less than a quarter of its target population, but it is far ahead of its two Northern Triangle neighbors in obtaining vaccine. It already received 1.9 million doses and expects more shipments in the coming days.

Honduras, by contrast, had gotten only about 59,000 vaccine doses before Thursdays donation. In March, Mexican customs agents seized 5,700 doses of purported Sputnik V vaccine from a private plane in the Gulf coast state of Campeche. The Russian Direct Investment Fund identified the doses as fake and a Honduran businessman later said he had been trying to obtain vaccine for his employees and their families.

Ida Berenice Molina, the Honduran official in charge of the countrys vaccination program, told local media that the government had not received any official information about the vaccine donation, including the type and expiration date.

El Salvadors health secretary, Francisco Alabi, supervised the vaccines departure. We hope that in the coming hours our Central American brothers can begin applying this immunization model we are sharing, he said.

To a certain point it is a humanitarian act, said Mario Gamero, head of the El Salvador Infectology Association. In the medical field we are more human than political and so we see it from a more human point of view. He added though that the government cant ignore our patients who urgently deserve the vaccine.

Amilcar Santillana, a cab driver in San Salvador, had a similar view

You have to help your neighbor, but first you have to vaccinate all Salvadorans, said Santillana, a 55-year-old awaiting his second dose.

In Honduras, Fernando Anduray, leader of the governing National Party, suggested Bukele's motivation was political, though he wouldnt complain about more vaccine coming to Honduras.

Bukele is in his political game there. Hes pressuring for other things and hes probably using this as a small distraction, Anduray said on Frente a Frente, a Honduran news show. Hes scoring a political point for his purposes in El Salvador and in front of international political opinion.

Bukele has offered help to neighbors before. Recently, Costa Ricas government asked the Central American Integration System, the regions economic and political organization, for loans of medicine. El Salvador donated 10,000 doses of the powerful painkiller fentanyl, which is used in COVID-19 patients who require intubation.

You dont loan help, you give it without conditions, Bukele said at the time via Twitter. They would have done the same for us.

Bukele said Thursdays vaccine donation would not hinder El Salvadors vaccination campaign. He said that the government is vaccinating people as quickly as possible and that scheduled vaccine shipments would give the country a margin for some donations.

El Salvador has so far tallied more than 70,000 confirmed coronavirus infections and more than 2,100 deaths from COVID-19.

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Associated Press writer Marlon Gonzalez in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, contributed to this report.
A group of Australian child environmentalists have lost their court bid to force the federal government to ban a coal mine expansion.

The eight children, aged 13 to 17, had argued in the Federal Court that Environment Minister Sussan Ley had a duty of care to protect younger people against climate change.

Ley is considering whether to approve the Vickery mine expansion in New South Wales state. The Whitehaven Coal-owned mine expansion is estimated to release 100 million metric tons (110 million U.S. tons) of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

The children sought an injunction to prevent its expansion but Justice Mordy Bromberg rejected their application.

The judge found Ley did owe the children a duty of care under the law of negligence. However, he pointed out there was no reasonable understanding to establish Ley would breach her duty of care to the children.

Bromberg found there was a "real" risk that the extension of the mine near the town of Gunnedah would likely cause a "tiny but measurable increase to global average surface temperatures."

"Perhaps the most startling of the potential harms demonstrated by the evidence before the court is that 1 million of today's Australian children are expected to suffer at least one heat stress episode serious enough to require acute care in a hospital," Bromberg said.

He added that many thousands will suffer premature death from heat stress or bushfire smoke. Substantial economic loss and property damage will be experienced and the Great Barrier Reef and most of Australia's eastern eucalypt forests will cease to exist.

The children's lawyer David Barnden called the judgment a victory.

"The court has found the minister owes a duty of care to younger children, vulnerable people, and that duty says the minister must not act in a way that causes future harm of climate change to younger people," Barnden told reporters.

Ley's office said she would consider the judgment before making any public statement.

The children who filed the case are led by 17-year-old Anjali Sharma with the aid of a so-called litigation guardian, Catholic nun Sister Brigid Arthur, 86.

One of the children, 17-year-old Ava Princi, said the judgment was a relief and called on Ley to ensure the mine extension doesnt happen.

"This is the first time a court of law anywhere in the world has recognized that a government minister has a duty of care to protect young people from the catastrophic harms of climate change," Princi told reporters.

The judge called for lawyers for the children and the minister to make further submissions by June 3 on what orders he should make in light of his reasons for judgment.

Includes reporting from AP
The growing prevalence of the Indian coronavirus variant means the UK is now a risk to the rest of Europe and beyond, scientists have warned.

France has already tightened its restrictions on British tourists due to the spread of the variant, announcing that anyone arriving from the UK must quarantine for seven days.

A similar policy has been adopted in Germany, where, since 23 May, travellers from Britain have been banned from entering the country after the UK was designated a virus variant area of concern by the German public health institute.

Known as B.1.617.2, the variant is thought to be spreading rapidly among unvaccinated pockets of the population in a number of cities and towns in England, including Bolton, Bedford, Blackburn and parts of London.

Up to 15 May, it had been detected in 151 local authorities, an 18 per cent increase on the week before, according to figures from the Wellcome Sanger Institute, while the government said on Thursday that the variant now accounts for up to 75 per cent of all new cases in England.

Ravi Gupta, a professor of clinical microbiology at Cambridge University and scientific adviser to the government, said the UK could start to export cases of B.1.617.2, along with any other variants that later emerge from it, if transmission is not brought under control.

As B.1.617.2 starts to increase, we may also be at risk of exporting a more worrisome form of the virus to other countries, he told The Independent. On balance, that's what I think is the major risk at the moment, to other countries from us, rather the other way around.

He highlighted that Britain already has experience in spreading one troublesome variant  B.1.1.7 - beyond its borders. The Kent variant, which emerged late last year, has been detected in most countries across the world, and is now dominant in a number of nations too.

However, experts believe that the Indian variant, so far identified in 53 countries, could replace B.1.1.7 as Europes dominant variant.

Cristina Pagel, a professor of operational research at University College London, said the government should not be encouraging travel in the summer due to the threat posed by the Indian variant.

From a more altruistic perspective, we should not be going on holiday and spreading B.1.617.2 to other places, she told The Independent.

We very efficiently exported the Kent variant at Christmas and it caused havoc in Europe, in the States, in India. It spread globally and caused problems everywhere it went.

We have a responsibility not to export the variant. The speed at which its taken off  incidentally under step two, not step three, of the roadmap  is hugely concerning.

Dr Marc Baguelin, an epidemiologist and modeller for the British Scientific Council, said that the risk of having a third coronavirus wave during the summer in the UK was high because of the Indian variant.

World news in pictures Show all 51 1 /51 World news in pictures World news in pictures 8 June 2021 AFP via Getty Images World news in pictures 7 June 2021 Gondoliers help tourists to get on the gondolas, as the region of Veneto becomes a white zone, following a relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions with only masks and social distancing required, in Venice, Italy Reuters World news in pictures 6 June 2021 A military brass band plays during the international ceremony on the 77th anniversary of D-Day, at Omaha Beach in Vierville-sur-Mer, northwestern France AFP/Getty World news in pictures 5 June 2021 An explosives expert from Hamas lays out unexploded projectiles from the aftermath of the May 2021 conflict with Israel, at a local police precinct in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip AFP/Getty World news in pictures 4 June 2021 A couple take photos of each other on a rainbow flag-themed path during pride month at Samyan MRT station in Bangkok, Thailand Reuters World news in pictures 3 June 2021 Sebastien Ogier steers his Toyota Yaris WRC with co-driver Julien Ingrassia during the shakedown at the Rally of Sardegna and fifth round of the FIA World Rally Championship AFP/Getty World news in pictures 2 June 2021 Smoke rises from a fire onboard the MV X-Press Pearl vessel as it sinks while being towed into deep sea off the Colombo Harbour, in Sri Lanka June 2, 2021 Sri Lanka Airforce via Reuters World news in pictures 1 June 2021 A girl runs through a fountain outside a shopping mall on International Children's Day in Beijing on June 1, 2021, a day after China announced it would allow couples to have three children. AFP/Getty World news in pictures 31 May 2021 In this handout image courtesy of the US Coast Guard the Coast Guard Cutter Resolute small boat crew rescues 8 people from the water approximately 18 miles southwest of Key West, Florida AFP/Getty World news in pictures 30 May 2021 A fishing boat sails in the sea-snot covered Marmara sea near Istanbul, Turkey EPA World news in pictures 29 May 2021 Smoke billowing from the Singapore-registered container ship MV X-Press Pearl, which has been burning for the tenth consecutive day in the sea off Sri Lanka's Colombo Harbour, in Colombo Sri Lanka Air Force/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 May 2021 Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis accompanied by his dog Peanut welcomes European Council President Charles Michel at the Maximos Mansion in Athens, Greece Reuters World news in pictures 27 May 2021 A man waits to receive a dose of the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine, in the rooms of the Claudia Comte exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art Castello di Rivoli near Turin AFP/Getty World news in pictures 26 May 2021 A girl, with her face painted with the colours of the opposition flag, looks on during a demonstration against Syria's President Bashar al-Assad and presidential elections, in the opposition-held Idlib, Syria Reuters World news in pictures 25 May 2021 A Buddhist monk climbs atop a giant statue of Buddha, to wash and decorate on the eve of Buddha Purnima, a holiday traditionally celebrated for Buddha's birthday also known as Vesak celebrations, in Bhopal AFP/Getty World news in pictures 24 May 2021 Lava from the eruption of Mount Nyiragongo cuts through Buhene north of Goma, Congo AP World news in pictures 23 May 2021 Cyclists at the start of the 15th stage of the Giro dItalia, a 147km race between Grado and Gorizia AFP/Getty World news in pictures 22 May 2021 Swiss Guards take their position prior to the arrival of the European Commission President at San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican for a private audience with the Pope AFP/Getty World news in pictures 21 May 2021 A dog that has been trained to sniff out the coronavirus disease, screens a sweat sample at Chulalongkorn University, in Bangkok, Thailand Reuters World news in pictures 20 May 2021 Ferrari's Carlos Sainz Jr in action during a F1 practice session at the Circuit de Monaco in Monte Carlo Reuters World news in pictures 18 May 2021 Horse-drawn carriages drive through the mudflats near Cuxhaven, northern Germany dpa via AP World news in pictures 17 May 2021 Kanoya Onishi in action during the Cycling BMX Free Style of Tokyo 2020 Olympics test event at Ariake Urban Sports Park in Japan EPA World news in pictures 16 May 2021 Rescuers carry Suzy Eshkuntana, 6, as they pull her from the rubble of a building at the site of Israeli air strikes, in Gaza City Reuters World news in pictures 15 May 2021 A ball of fire erupts from the Jala Tower as it is destroyed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza city AFP/Getty World news in pictures 14 May 2021 Muslims offer Eid al-Fitr prayers inside the Baitul Mukarram Mosque in Dhaka, Bangladesh AP World news in pictures 13 May 2021 Muslim girls ride on a mini train after attending the Eid Al-Fitr prayer that marks the end of the Holy month of Ramadan at Uhuru Park in Nairobi, Kenya AFP/Getty World news in pictures 12 May 2021 Israeli artillery fire as the escalation continues between Israeli army and Hamas at the Gaza Border EPA World news in pictures 11 May 2021 Maya Nakanishi competes in the womens long jump - T64 category during a para-athletics test event for the 2020 Olympics at the National Stadium in Tokyo AFP/Getty World news in pictures 10 May 2021 A Palestinian man helps a wounded fellow protester amid clashes with Israeli security forces at Jerusalems Al-Aqsa mosque compound, ahead of a planned march to commemorate Israels takeover of Jerusalem in the 1967 Six-Day War AFP/Getty World news in pictures 9 May 2021 Falconer Giovanna Piccolo performs with her Eurasian eagle-owl at 'Roma World' theme park, during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, in Rome Reuters World news in pictures 8 May 2021 Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury (29) is introduced as a starter against the St. Louis Blues at T-Mobile Arena. 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Tonnes of fish have washed up dead on the shoreline of the highly polluted artificial reservoir in eastern Lebanon in recent days AFP/Getty World news in pictures 28 April 2021 Health workers wearing PPE attends to coronavirus patients inside a banquet hall temporarily converted into a covid care centre in New Delhi AFP/Getty World news in pictures 27 April 2021 The full moon, known as the Super Pink Moon rises behind the Statue of Liberty in New York City, Reuters World news in pictures 26 April 2021 Balinese people lay wreaths with names of the crew on board the sunk Indonesian Navy submarine KRI Nanggala during a prayer at the sea near Labuhan Lalang, Bali, Indonesia EPA World news in pictures 25 April 2021 An Ethiopian Orthodox Christian worshipper walks around the Edicule, the place believed to be where Jesus Christ was buried, during Palm Sunday celebrations at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem AFP/Getty World news in pictures 24 April 2021 Fans of Wuhan Three Towns FC cheer for their team during the 1st round match Wuhan Three Towns FC and Beijing Institute of Technology FC during Chinese Football League One in Wuhan, China Getty World news in pictures 23 April 2021 A girl prays in front of the Dome of the Rock, in the compound known to Muslims as Noble Sanctuary and to Jews as Temple Mount, in Jerusalems Old City, on the second Friday of the holy month of Ramadan, as coronavirus restrictions ease around the country, in Jerusalem Reuters World news in pictures 22 April 2021 People walk through the art work 'THE SPIRITS OF THE PUMPKINS DESCENDED INTO THE HEAVENS' by Yayoi Kusama, during the press preview of a retrospective exhibition of the Japanese artist at the Martin Gropius Bau museum in Berlin, Germany AP World news in pictures 21 April 2021 Hungary's Sara Peter competes in the Women's floor qualifications during European Artistic Gymnastics Championships at the St Jakobshalle, in Basel AFP/Getty World news in pictures 20 April 2021 South Korea university students gets their heads shaved during a protest against Japan's decision to release contaminated water from its Fukushima nuclear plant into the sea, in front of the Japanese embassy, in Seoul Reuters World news in pictures 19 April 2021 A spectator wearing a football jersey of Argentina's forward Lionel Messi attends the ATP Barcelona Open tennis tournament singles match between Japan's Kei Nishikori and Argentina's Guido Pella at the Real Club de Tenis in Barcelona AFP/Getty World news in pictures 18 April 2021 People raise their fist during a demonstration near the George Floyd Memorial in Minneapolis, Minnesota AFP/Getty World news in pictures 17 April 2021 Security personnel stand guard outside a polling station during the 5th phase of West Bengal's state legislative assembly elections in Kolkata AFP/Getty

Although the Covid vaccines remain effective against the variant after two doses, scientists are concerned that the highly transmissible variant will still spread among unvaccinated or not fully protected individuals as restrictions are lifted, culminating in some hospitalisations and deaths.

France's European affairs minister, Clement Beaune, has meanwhile said that Britons will need a compelling reason to be in the country from Monday, when the new quarantine measures come into force.

Holidays are also out of the question and should be scrapped, according to a spokesman for Frances tourism ministry.
Matt Hancock has denied allegations that he repeatedly lied to colleagues and the public during the course of the governments response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Former Downing Street chief of staff Dominic Cummings had told MPs on Wednesday that the health secretary had nearly been sacked by the prime minister for his conduct.

Answering an urgent question from Labour on the issue in the House of Commons on Thursday, Mr Hancock said he rejected the allegations around honesty  though he did not specifically address others.

These allegations that were put yesterday ... are serious allegations and I welcome the opportunity to come to the House to put formally on the record that these unsubstantiated allegations around honesty are not true, he said.

"I've been straight with people in public and in private throughout."

Boris Johnson meanwhile made little comment when quizzed on Mr Cummings claims during a visit to a hospital later on Thursday.

Youve got to recognise - and I think people do understand this - that when you go into a lockdown, its a very, very painful and traumatic thing for peoples mental health, their lives and their livelihoods.

Of course youve got to set that against the horrors of the pandemic and of Covid. At every stage, weve been governed by a determination to protect life, to save life, to ensure that our NHS is not over run. And we followed to the best we can the data and the guidance.

And what we are doing now is still following the data, still looking very carefully at where were going, and looking at whats happening with the new variant.

During parliamentary exchanges on Thursday morning MPs repeatedly asked the Home Secretary about specific claims made by Mr Cummings  including whether Mr Hancock had known that people who had not been tested for Covid were being discharged into care homes.

The challenge is we had to build testing capacity, and at that time of course I was focused on protecting people in care homes and in building that testing capacity so that we had the daily tests to be able to ensure that availability was more widespread, he said.

Meanwhile Conservative MPs came to his aid  using time allocated for questions to the minister to attack Mr Cummings and the opposition.

Wellingborough Tory MP Peter Bone described Mr Cummings as an unelected Spad who broke Covid regulations, admitted he had leaked stuff to the BBC and, by his own admission, wasnt fit to be in Number 10 Downing Street.

Mr Bone added: The only mistake the Prime Minister made in this pandemic is he didnt fire Dominic Cummings early enough.

Meanwhile another Tory, Cherilyn Mackrory, said: "Given the gravity of the situation the Government faced at the beginning of the pandemic and considering we now know there was a hugely disruptive force in the form of Dominic Cummings, I'd like to congratulate ministers."

She added: "Can [Mr Hancock] assure me that he will ignore unsubstantiated Westminster gossip and stay focused on delivering the vaccine rollout and our manifesto promises?"

UK news in pictures Show all 51 1 /51 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 8 June 2021 REUTERS UK news in pictures 7 June 2021 A pedestrian wearing a face covering walks over Westminster Bridge near the Houses of Parliament in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 6 June 2021 Isobel Salamon, founder of the Edinburgh Cinema Club, poses alongside the Leith Trainspotting murals in Quality Yard, Leith, Edinburgh, for the programme launch of the Cinescapes Festival which starts on July 4 with a Trainspotting 1 and 2 double bill PA UK news in pictures 5 June 2021 A long exposure photograph captures the rotation of the earth as the stars blur into circles over Knowlton church ruins in Dorset Nick Lucas/SWNS UK news in pictures 4 June 2021 Balloonists take flight during the opening of the Midlands Air Festival in Alcester, Warwickshire PA UK news in pictures 3 June 2021 Members of the Household Cavalry during the Major General's annual inspection of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment in Hyde Park, London PA UK news in pictures 2 June 2021 Hannah Vitos of the Blenheim Art Foundation, poses for a photograph next to artist Ai Weiwei's Gilded Cage (2017) sculpture in the grounds of Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, Britain Reuters UK news in pictures 1 June 2021 People swim in the Sky Pool, a transparent swimming pool bridge across two exclusive residential blocks standing next to the US Embassy in Nine Elms, in London, Tuesday, June 1, 2021 AP UK news in pictures 31 May 2021 People enjoy the hot weather at Brighton beach Reuters UK news in pictures 30 May 2021 People venture into the sea as they enjoy themselves during a hot day on Brighton Beach AP UK news in pictures 29 May 2021 Swimmers at the Stonehaven Open Air Pool in Aberdeenshire, which reopens after lockdown restrictions were eased PA UK news in pictures 28 May 2021 Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson gestures as he meets Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban at Downing Street in London REUTERS UK news in pictures 27 May 2021 White Pelicans in the sunshine in St James's Park, London PA UK news in pictures 26 May 2021 Boats are seen at Southsea Moorings in Portsmouth Reuters UK news in pictures 25 May 2021 York Glaziers Trust employees Kieran Muir (left) and Emily Price (right) remove a stained glass window panel at the start of a new five year, 5m project to conserve York Minsters South East Transept and its medieval St Cuthbert Window PA UK news in pictures 24 May 2021 Dark rain clouds above an oast house at Bewl Water reservoir near Lamberhurst in Kent during one of the rainiest Mays on record, with the UK seeing 131 per cent of the usual months rainfall already PA UK news in pictures 23 May 2021 The Premier League trophy with the Manchester City club colour ribbons on, at Etihad Stadium, prior to the last Premier League match of the season. 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Mr Hancock replied: "I think that's what the public expects us to do."

But Labour's shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth said: "Isn't the truth that his failures on testing and PPE contributed to covid spreading like wildfire in care homes?

It is clear to the country and the families who lost loved ones that we have been let down by this Government, this Prime Minister, and this Health Secretary.

The truth matters. The least these families and the country now deserve is clear answers from the Health Secretary and Prime Minister today.

Asked why Mr Johnson had delayed calling a lockdown in the face of scientific advice that it was needed, the prime ministers official spokesperson said: We are guided by the latest scientific advice throughout. Its the prime ministers job and that of the cabinet to take that advice and put it alongside wider implications of measures such as lockdown and consider the longer-term impact of those measures. Thats what the prime minister did. He balanced that judgement and took action whenever necessary during this pandemic.

On Mr Hancocks comment that it was too early to say whether the final step of relaxing lockdown would go ahead on 21 June, the PMs spokesperson said: The secretary of state was reflecting the fact that we as yet dont have crucial pieces of information about this variant that will enable us to make the final decision with regard to step four.

We always built in weeks in the roadmap to gather this data. Albeit we didnt know about this new variant, we build in the time gap between steps so we can review the data.
Amy Cooper, who went viral and became known as Central Park Karen last year after she called New York police and falsely reported a Black birdwatcher was threatening her life, is suing her former employer, arguing they fired her without properly investigating the incident.

Ms Cooper lodged her complaint in a federal court in New York on Tuesday, arguing the public backlash against her interaction with Christian Cooper (unrelated), and her firing the next day from investment firm Franklin Templeton, caused her such severe emotional distress that she was suicidal.

Even a perfunctory investigation would have shown that Plaintiff did not shout at Christian Cooper or call the police from Central Park on May 25, 2020 because she was a racistshe did these things because she was alone in the park and frightened to death after being selected as the next target of Christian Cooper, an overzealous birdwatcher engaged in Central Parks ongoing feud between birdwatchers and dog owners, the lawsuit alleges.

The firm defended its handling of the firing.

We believe the circumstances of the situation speak for themselves and that the Company responded appropriately, it told The Independent in a statement. We will defend against these baseless claims.

In the video, which soon went viral and has been viewed roughly 45 million times, she can be seen standing at a distance from Mr Cooper. The man, a prominent birder and LGBTQ activist, said he asked her to put a leash on her dog in an area of New Yorks Central Park known as the Ramble, which requires dogs to be restrained.

After she refused, Mr Cooper said he planned to offer the dog a treat. When the video begins, Ms Cooper can be heard saying, Im going to tell them theres an African-American man threatening my life, as she grows closer and asks Mr Cooper to stop recording, continuing to emphasize the mans race as she speaks with a 911 dispatcher.

Police arrived at the scene and no arrests were made. She was charged last July with filing a false police report, but the charges were dropped after she got therapy, including instruction on avoiding racist bias.

The incident, which occurred on the same day a Minneapolis police officer murdered George Floyd, an unarmed Black man, struck a chord with many Americans, who viewed Ms Coopers actions as part of a long history of racist paranoia from white people about Black men putting them in danger with the police.

I am one of the few male African-Americans who birds the Ramble regularly, Mr Cooper told The New York Times at the time. And I have always been aware that if I am crawling around behind a shrub trying to catch a glimpse of that rare bird, holding a metal object in my hands, I will be perceived differently than a white man if police come across that scene.

He said he was uncomfortable with the mass outrage directed at Ms Cooper, adding to the Times, If our goal is to change the underlying factors, I am not sure that this young woman having her life completely torn apart serves that goal.

In addition to being fired, Ms Coopers action caused the rescue society where she adopted her dog to reclaim it, after the pet can be seen thrashing uncomfortable on the leash as a frantic Ms Cooper drags it across a lawn while she calls with police.

Following the incident, Ms Cooper apologized, though then as now, she downplayed the racist dynamics at play in the incident.

I am well aware of the pain that misassumptions and insensitive statements about race cause and would never have imagined that I would be involved in the type of incident that occurred with Chris, she said in a statement at the time. I hope that a few mortifying seconds in a lifetime of forty years will not define me in his eyes and that he will accept my sincere apology.

Mr Cooper, in addition to being on the board of the New York Audubon Society, a birding group, is a prominent LGBTQ activist known for his work with GLAAD and helping Marvel write its first comic book with an out character.
Lori Vallow, the Idaho woman accused of killing her two children, has been ruled unfit for trial by a psychologist and a stay has been ordered in the case against her.

Prosecutors have contested a judges ruling that she is not competent to proceed and a hearing will be held to resolve the dispute.

Ms Vallow and new husband Chad Daybell are accused of murdering her two children, Joshua JJ Vallow, 7, and Tylee Ryan, 17, in September 2019, and justifying the killing with their religious beliefs.

The couple fled to Hawaii in December 2019 as police announced the children were missing and potentially in danger.

Ms Vallow was arrested in February 2020 in Hawaii and brought back to Idaho.

The bodies of the two children, who were last seen alive in September 2019 after Lori moved from Arizona to Idaho to live with Chad, were found on his property in early June 2020.

Prosecutors earlier this week charged her with first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder among other felonies, but her appearance in court on those was delayed.

She was previously charged with felony counts of concealment of evidence and conspiracy to conceal evidence.

Chad Daybell also is charged with first-degree murder over the death of his former wife, Tammy Daybell.

In his order Fremont County Judge Steven Boyce wrote that her case had been stayed, or temporarily suspended, since 8 March when the court ordered her to undergo evaluation.

Police in Arizona have also now submitted a new charge against Ms Vallow of conspiracy to commit murder in the death of Charles Vallow.

Mr Vallow is Loris ex-husband and he was shot and killed by her brother in 2019.

Court documents state that Ms Vallow told a friend during 2019 that her children had become dark spirits or zombies.

The friend told investigators that the couple believed that the only way to rid a person of the dark spirit was to kill them so they could rest in the afterlife.

They had reportedly been connected to the Preparing a People group, which her family has described as a doomsday cult.

If convicted, the couple faces life in prison or the death penalty.

Mr Daybell is next scheduled to appear on 9 June to enter a plea on the murder charges but his wifes next court date has not yet been scheduled.
Police in Mississippi have sparked anger after four white officers with dogs posed for a photo with a captured Black suspect.

The officers from Prentiss Police Department took the picture after arresting Eric Boykin for an alleged bank robbery.

Investigators say they captured Mr Boykin in a wooded area near the Hancock Bank, which he is accused of robbing with a handgun.

The manhunt included officers from the ATF, FBI, Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, the Mississippi Department of Corrections, the Louisiana State Prison System K9 team, the Rankin County Sheriffs Department, and Columbia Police Department.

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency also used a drone to aid in the hunt.

Social media users were quick to draw attention to the optics of the police departments photo.

So either 1) none of the people involved, from the officers to the news station to the staffer who posted this, realized what a bad look this is or 2) they do know how it looks, and thats why they posted it. Those are the only two possibilities! and they are both very very bad, tweeted Josie Duffy Rice, a criminal justice system reporter and president of The Appeal.

The suspect was charged with armed robbery and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

This isnt evidence, its not proof of anyones injuries (or lack thereof). Its a trophy, tweeted @ariel_gordon.

And @Tfort9 added:I am sitting here in utter disbelief. NO WORDS.
A man has been cleared of murder and freed from jail in the US after spending more than three decades behind bars.

Authorities found 56-year-old Gilbert Poole Jr had been wrongly convicted based on faulty evidence, which included a bite mark on the victim.

He had been sentenced to jail while in his 20s and was freed on Wednesday after spending 32 years in prison.

Images showed Mr Poole, with a long beard and wearing a cap, leaving prison with his hands in the air after being cleared of the crime.

We are thrilled that the truth has finally been established, his lawyer, Marla Mitchell-Cichon, said.

In 1989, Mr Poole was convicted of the murder of Robert Mejia, who was stabbed to death and found near a running path in Pontiac, a city in Michigan, the year before.

Mr Pooles girlfriend told police that he had confessed to her that he met Mejia in a bar and later killed him during a violent robbery attempt and a dentist linked him to a bite mark on the victim.

He repeatedly denied any role in the murder and had spent years challenging his conviction with the support of the Innocence Project at Western Michigan University Cooley Law School (WMU-Cooley Innocence Project).

In 2015, the Michigan Court of Appeals ordered DNA testing of biological material gathered by police in 1988.

There was evidence of type A blood at the scene, which didnt match Mejias or Mr Pooles blood, with an expert saying there was evidence of an unknown contributor who is not the defendant or the victim.

The WMU-Cooley Innocence Project filed an application to the Michigan Attorney Generals Conviction Integrity Unit for the case to be reinvestigated.

On Wednesday, an Oakland County judge overturned the conviction, more than three decades after it was handed down.

Mr Pooles conviction was based on unreliable evidence, including a bite mark comparison, which is not based on science, his lawyer, Ms Mitchell-Cichon, said.

Mr Poole said: I spent decades learning, reading, studying law, but none of that was working for me. It wasnt until I surrendered to a higher power and God stepped in and sent me a band of angels to look past the rules and regulations and looked to see who was standing in the furnace.

He added: I was standing in the furnace. I didnt belong here. I have to thank each and every one of you, without you this wasnt possible.

Additional reporting by Associated Press
U.S. Sen. Mitt Romney faulted those on both extremes of the nations political divide Wednesday as he accepted the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award.

Romney was presented with the award in recognition of his decision to become the only Republican to split with his party and vote to convict former President Donald Trump during his first impeachment trial.

Many of us have been disappointed of late by the actions of some people whove chosen the easy way, playing to the crowd, itching the ears of the resentful with conspiracies and accusations, the Utah Republican said Wednesday. I take heart in the fact that such displays are still newsworthy and are generally met with disdain."

The domestic political squabbles are having a real impact, Romney said, by diverting the nations attention away from three great challenges facing the country: the rise of China, global climate change and the degradation of the national balance sheet.

Romney said theres plenty of blame to go around.

Some of us on the right infect the nation with claims of election fraud, tech and media outrages, even vaccine fantasies. From the left come hyperwoke accusations and antipathy toward free enterprise, the very means of our prosperity, the Utah Republican added.

Romney was given the award by Caroline Kennedy, the daughter of President Kennedy and the honorary president of the foundation, during a virtual ceremony.

Trumps first impeachment trial in 2020 focused on his relationship with Ukraine.

Romney became the first senator in U.S. history to vote to convict a president who belonged to their party. The former Massachusetts governor came under intense criticism and even received threats from some supporters of the former president.

After the Jan. 6 insurrection by Trumps supporters at the U.S. Capitol, Romney called on fellow Republican senators to acknowledge that Trump had lost the election.

At Trumps second impeachment trial, Romney was one of seven Republican senators who voted to convict the former president of inciting the attack.

Romney, 74, has a long history with the Kennedy family.

In 1994, Romney challenged U.S. Sen. Edward Kennedy for his seat and lost. Later, as governor, he worked with Kennedy to pass a landmark bill in Massachusetts that expanded access to health care.

President Kennedys book, Profiles in Courage, recounts the stories of eight U.S. senators who risked their careers by taking principled stands for unpopular positions. The award was created by the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation in 1989.

Previous winners have included Presidents Barack Obama, Gerald Ford and George H.W. Bush.
Bolivia s former interior minister has has been arrested in the U.S. for allegedly taking part of $602,000 in kickbacks from Florida-based businessmen accused of selling tear gas at inflated prices to the conservative government of former interim President Jeanine Anez.

Arturo Murillo was charged with a single count of conspiring to commit money laundering, according to a Department of Justice statement on Wednesday.

The Associated Press previously reported that Murillo's former chief of staff had been arrested as part of the investigation along with the owner of a Florida-based supplier of police and military equipment and his father, who press accounts indicate was charged two decades ago in Bolivia with weapons smuggling.

Murillo, 57, was one of the most outspoken voices in the Anez government that took power in November 2019 after President Evo Morales stepped down amid violent protests disputing his reelection to a fourth straight term.

He has a long history of far-right provocation. As a congressman, he supported a ban on abortion by once telling women that they should commit suicide by jumping from a five-story building if they wanted to terminate a pregnancy.

As interior minister, he referred to opponents as narco-terrorists, brought charges against Morales for sedition and led the deadly police response against protesters that drew rebuke from international human rights groups. He also bragged about meeting with the CIA when he traveled to Washington to meet with senior officials in the Trump administration who initially viewed Anez's ascent as an opportunity to improve bilateral relations that turned hostile under Morales.

But the crackdown on Bolivias left backfired, and almost a year later, Morales ally, Luis Arce, was elected and proceeded to lock up Anez and other officials tied to her short-lived rule.

On Wednesday, his successor as Interior Minister, Eduardo del Castillo, said the Arce government would ask the U.S. to extradite Murillo and Sergio Mendez, his former chief of staff, so they could face justice at home. Bolivian authorities also arrested a relative of Murillo as he was withdrawing money and valuable from a security deposit box at a bank in the city of Cochabamba held in Murillo's name, according to press reports.

Murillo became the key force behind the de facto govts repression, said Kathryn Ledebur, director of the Bolivia-based Andean Information Network. His arrest is an important message that rampant corruption and abuse cannot be tolerated by the international community.

According to investigators, Murillo, Mendez and another unnamed co-conspirator in the Defense Ministry helped a Florida-based company obtain a $5.6 million contract to supply tear gas and non-lethal equipment to the Anez government.

The company was allegedly owned by Bryan Berkman, a dual Bolivian-American national who purchased the tear gas in Brazil for a much-smaller sum of $3.3 million, according to an affidavit from a Department of Homeland Security agent that accompanies the complaint. Part of the profits allegedly were used to coordinate the bribe payments, some of which were to be paid from a delivery of $700,000 in cash to Bolivia.

While the American company is not named in the complaint, Berkman is the chief executive of Taramac-based Bravo Tactical Solutions, according to Floridas corporate registry. His father, Luis Berkman, who was also arrested and charged, runs a separate Tamarac-based company called International Defense Group.

Bolivian press reports indicate that the older Berkman was arrested on weapons trafficking charges in 2001, accused of heading a criminal ring that tried to smuggle military assault weapons to Paraguay. He was declared a fugitive in 2013 without having been found guilty, according to a Bolivian judicial filing.

According to the complaint, evidence compiled from text messages, emails and bank records show that Mendez was asked by a co-conspirator to write a letter to the Brazilian tear gas manufacturer insisting that Bolivias government would only purchase its products via the Berkman-owned company.

On Jan. 13, 2020, Bolivia's Central Bank attempted to wire transfer $5.6 million to a U.S. account belonging to the Berkman-owned company. On the same day, Murillo met Bryan Berkman in Miami and opened a bank account with a $10,000 deposit.

However, the wire transfer from Bolivia's government was rejected, prompting Mendez to send an email from his government account to the U.S. bank to try and clear the transaction.

Once blocked, the alleged co-conspirators tried a few weeks later with a different U.S. bank.

Help me with the payment please, the elder Berkman wrote in a text message to Murillo, who responded We're all going to meet at the Ministry of Economy at 7:30 tomorrow and the go-ahead will be given.

An attorney for Murillo did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

__

AP Writer Paola Flores contributed to this report from La Paz, Bolivia.

Follow Goodman on Twitter: @APJoshGoodman
By Yun Byung-se





The first summit between President Joe Biden and President Moon Jae-in held in Washington, D.C. last week formalized the outcome of the new U.S. administration's North Korea policy review.



According to the leaders' joint statement, the review "will take a calibrated and practical approach that is open to and will explore diplomacy with North Korea." Though it is scant on details due to the U.S. negotiation strategy, it resembles a "Goldilocks principle" that seeks a middle ground, avoiding both extremes  not too hot (Trump's grand bargain), not too cold (Obama's strategic patience). In that sense, the Biden team chose a rather safe or less risky option for now.



There are several possible explanations for this choice. First, it reflects an unpleasant recognition of the reality that North Korea will not give up its nuclear weapons in the foreseeable future. Secondly, as Evans Revere at the Brookings Institution analyzed, "it is to maintain freedom of action and maintain the ability to go in a number of different directions to basically keep the administration's options as wide open as possible."



Thirdly, due to other multiple urgent challenges, the Biden administration does not want an escalation of tensions at least in the early stage of the presidency, nor can it afford to assign top priority to Pyongyang.



Members of the Biden national security team are old hands at North Korea. They know well that the window of opportunity for a negotiated settlement is very narrow and any deal with North Korea is a high risk and low return game. This is why President Biden said that the U.S. is under "no illusion" about the difficulties of denuclearizing North Korea and Secretary of State Tony Blinken said that the ball is now in North Korea's court.



It will take a while for North Korea to respond either positively or negatively. The sugar coating in the joint statement  that diplomacy and dialogue will be based on the Singapore Joint Statement  could be a positive factor, while a reference to North Korea's human rights and silence regarding a non-hostile policy or easing of sanctions will be a negative one.



Nevertheless, in light of the lessons below from past experiences, will we see a different ball game or the same old one if Pyongyang returns to the negotiation table?



Lesson No.1: North Korea tended to be more responsive to dialogue when the ROK-U.S. alliance dealt with it from a position of strength and with resolve. Talks about U.N. economic sanctions and the mobilization of force against Pyongyang during the first nuclear crisis in 1994 and U.S. military pressure and tough rhetoric in 2017 scared North Korea to enter serious negotiations, respectively (Geneva talks and Singapore summit).



Lesson No. 2: North Korea is a habitual deal breaker once a deal is made. The Agreed Framework of 1994 between the U.S. and North Korea came to an end when Pyongyang's covert uranium enrichment program was revealed in 2002. Pyongyang drove a nail in the coffin of the Six-party Joint Statement of Sept. 19, 2005 by refusing to agree to follow-up verification measures in 2008.



Lesson No.3: Semantics is a big weapon of North Korea. It interprets international agreements at its convenience. The Leap Day deal with the U.S. of February 29, 2012 including a moratorium on long-range missile tests, was broken only one month after the deal, when North Korea blatantly launched a long-range missile, claiming it was a "satellite." North Korea interprets the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula in the Singapore joint statement of June 12, 2018 as including the withdrawal of the U.S. nuclear umbrella and forces from South Korea.



Lesson No. 4: North Korea is a master of four negotiation tools  brinkmanship, salami tactics, back-loading of its major concessions and frontloading of its priority interests. For instance, the Geneva Agreed Framework of 1994 put carrots (light water reactors) first before nuclear compliance. The Singapore joint statement of June 12, 2018 repeats the same pattern.



Two North Korean priorities (new U.S.-North Korea relations, a lasting peace regime on the Korean Peninsula) precede two U.S. priorities (complete denuclearization, and prisoner of war (POW)/ missing in action (MIA) remains). North Korea already demanded U.S. actions first, based on this sequence.



Lesson No. 5: North Korea's big words  their favorite menu  such as a non-hostile policy, regime security, and peace treaty, are black holes that deplete all our energy and time. Its intention is multi-pronged: to deflect the focus on denuclearization; to seek the withdrawal of the U.S. Forces Korea; and to terminate the ROK-U.S. alliance.



Lesson No. 6: North Korea consistently insists on principles such as "simultaneous action," "step-by-step process/ phased approach," "words for words," "commitment for commitment," and "action for action." Recent additions are "force for force" and "goodwill for goodwill." Each action, step or phase can turn into a vortex of merry-go-round "talkathons," making implementation a long drawn out process.



Now, Kim Jong-un must be weighing the pros and cons of possible talks with the Biden administration. The good old days of summitry with Donald Trump are gone. But an emboldened North Korean leader may believe he prevailed over both Trump's "fire and fury" and Obama's pressure campaign, and now, as a nuclear-armed state, has nothing to fear.



He may turn to his patron, China, again for political and economic assistance as he did in 2018. He must have thoroughly studied the Biden team's favorite Iranian model and various arms control and disarmament agreements to retain as many nuclear warheads as possible.



Last, but not least, he may think of familiar attention-grabbing provocations to start any future negotiations from the position of strength. Once he comes around to talks, with or without theatrics, we may see a very familiar pattern of North Korean strategy and tactics in its determined pursuit to join the nuclear club. The moment of truth will come sooner rather than later.





Yun Byung-se is former foreign minister of South Korea. He is now a board member of Korea Peace Foundation and is a member of several ex-global leaders' forums and task forces, including the Astana Forum and its Consultative Council as well as the Task Force on U.S. Allies and Nuclear Weapons Proliferation sponsored by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs.


When countries were scrambling for personal protective equipment at the beginning of the pandemic, Donald Trump was using a trick from his real estate days to undermine them, a former aide to Boris Johnson told a British parliamentary committee.

At this point we had Trump sending the CIA round trying to gazump everybody on PPE, Dominic Cummings , a former chief adviser to the prime minister, told members of Parliament in an explosive evidence session on Wednesday.

Gazump is a British real estate term, meaning to outbid a buyer after the seller has already agreed to a price. In the spring of 2020, many countries were desperately buying up hospital masks and gowns from suppliers like China, but Mr Cummings said the US government frequently tried to sabotage those purchases.

Meanwhile, Mr Cummings said, Britains own efforts to obtain those supplies were completely hopeless.

There wasnt any system set up to deal with proper emergency procurement, he told MPs. When I was having PPE meetings around the cabinet room table, we were told, Oh, well, the PPE obviously isnt going to arrive for months because it takes that long to ship.

Mr Cummings eventually left Mr Johnsons government in November 2020 after falling out with the prime minister. On Wednesday, he aired an extraordinary number of grievances about that government as he spoke to a committee reviewing the countrys early pandemic response.

Mr Trump came up more than once. In another undermining incident, Mr Cummings said the American president distracted an urgent Covid strategy meeting by suddenly demanding Britains support for an airstrike in Iraq .

The former Johnson adviser said the call came on 12 March, just as British officials were deciding whether to impose a lockdown.

Suddenly, the national security people came in and said, Trump wants us to join a bombing campaign in the Middle East tonight, and we need to start having meetings about that through the day with Cobra [Cabinet Office Briefing Rooms] as well, Mr Cummings said.

So everything to do with Cobra that day on Covid was completely disrupted because you had these two parallel sets of meetings. You had the national security people running in and out talking about, Are we going to bomb the Middle East?

The US government eventually carried out the bombing itself, without Britains involvement.

The Trump Organization has not yet responded to The Independents request for comment.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer s reelection campaign  not a nonprofit fund  will pay for her flights to and from Florida where she visited her ailing father in March.

The disclosure Thursday came in a letter to a Republican lawmaker who had asked questions about the pandemic trip. A lawyer for the governor's campaign and the fund said he learned from Detroit-based PVS Chemicals, which supplied the private jet, that it could not accept the $27,521 payment except from a candidate committee because it is not authorized to operate charter flights.

In a letter to House Oversight Committee Chairman Steve Johnson Christopher Trebilcock said PVS and the fund, Michigan Transition 2019, learned of a miscommunication between themselves over the source of payment due to media reports.

He said Whitmer flew private, instead of commercial, for security reasons  citing death threats and noting an alleged plot to kidnap her over her COVID-19 restrictions. Her state security detail accompanied her. Their expenses will be covered by the campaign, lessening the burden on taxpayers, he said.

But for her elected office, the governor would not have incurred the security expenses for travel to see her ailing father on short notice, Trebilcock said.

He also disclosed that Whitmer's two daughters were on the return flight after helping manage their grandfather's health issues for several weeks while attending college and high school remotely. The governor will reimburse her committee for the cost of a first-class commercial airline ticket for herself and her daughters. Her office had previously said she would pay $855 for her flight.

The business jet is registered to Air Eagle, whose agent is John Nicholson, executive vice president of PVS, according to state records. An aide to Whitmer contacted PVS on or around March 8 to ask if it had a plane to fly her to Florida, according to the letter. She left March 12 and returned March 15.

The campaign also paid $22,670 for the governor's Jan. 19-21 trip to and from Washington, D.C., for President Joe Biden s inauguration, Trebilcock said. The private plate was operated by New Hudson-based Solomon Plumbing Co.

We did this to set the record straight and provide answers to Rep. Johnsons questions, campaign spokesman Mark Fisk said.

___

Follow David Egger at https://twitter.com/DavidEggert00
A family has been given a brand new house after theirs was burnt to the ground when a mischief of mice chewed through electrical wires in the roof and caused a fire.

The blaze engulfed the property in Gwabegar, New South Wales, and left Rebekah Ward and her young family without anywhere to live, as reported by MailOnline.

Ms Ward said the mouse infestation, that has plagued eastern Australia in recent months, has been so bad that her sons John, 12, Charlie, nine, and Oliver, seven, have all been bitten by rodents.

She told The Today Show: They crawl over the kids at night. They wake up, they are in our shoes, they are on our benches, they are everywhere,' she said.

They eat the food. We've had to put the food into a toolbox. They come through the lounge. They will bite you on the back.

The community have rallied round and supported the mother-of-three and her young family by giving them food and also providing them with a new home.

Ms Ward added: We can start again and get back on our feet and not stress for three months and work out what we're gonna do.

It's a roof over the boys. We can get back to normality and get the boys back into school.

New South Wales and other hotspots in eastern Australia are currently in the grip of a mouse plague causing chaos for the regions farmers as the rodents eat crops and break their way into grain silos.

There are multiple reports of people being bitten in hospitals and of farmers keeping the legs of their beds in buckets of water to prevent mice biting them while they sleep.

Videos posted on social media have highlighted the sheer magnitude of the problem with thousands of mice seen scurrying around farms, swarming roofs and invading storage where grain is kept.

Xavier Martin, a grain farmer from the Liverpool Plains of New South Wales, discussed the situation on BBCs Radio 4s Today Programme on Wednesday.

He said: As they run out of food and cannibalise each other they do decline but in other places they are just absolutely exploding and its not thousands its billions.

In my family farm we put out two billion baits mainly by aircraft, and we are only moderate sized farmers and they are all gone, the baits have all been all taken.

The government has lodged an emergency permit to grant the use of a poison called bromadiolone to help deal with the issue.

However environmentalists have warned that the poison could also harm other animals, such as eagles, that eat mice.
Belaruss beleaguered opposition has called on the European Union to recognise its role in allowing Alexander Lukashenko to build a dictatorship on its borders  by imposing stringent sanctions that strike at the heart of his regime.

Speaking with The Independent, a senior spokesman for Belaruss president-in-exile Svetlana Tikhonovskaya said European policymakers had long underestimated the risk posed by Mr Lukashenko.

We warned European leaders about the people being disappeared, the media being destroyed, but they kept visiting and making Lukashenko feel untouchable, Franak Viacorka, a former journalist, said.

Europe didnt take responsibility then, but it needs to wise up now if it wants to avoid North Korea appearing on its doorstep.

Expressing a commonly held view among the Belarusian opposition that European sanctions have been too loose, loopholed and narrowly focused, Mr Viacorka said the response to Sundays interception of the Ryanair jet and arrest of dissident Roman Protasevich needed to impose a clearer cost on Mr Lukashenko.

That meant new sanctions on his close circle; on oil; and on the potash industry, Belaruss only abundant resource and main export.

Pavlo Latushko, Mr Lukashenkos former culture minister who heads the Belarusian government-in-exile, told The Independent the opposition was also pushing for the Belarusian leader to be declared an international terrorist.

That, he said, would make Belarusian credit untouchable around the world. Mr Latushko insisted the idea was plausible, and was already being explored by European courts.

On Wednesday, Bloomberg suggested European leaders were indeed poised to introduce restrictions on potash. But so far, the only confirmed new sanctions on Belarus cover its aviation industry.

The moves to bar Belavia from European skies certainly create a major annoyance for Mr Lukashenko and his regime. The state carrier is now reportedly on the brink of bankruptcy. But the impact is greatest on ordinary Belarusians, who already face severe restrictions leaving via land borders, supposedly introduced in response to Covid-19.

Getting out of the country quickly for, say, a dissident, isnt going to be easy  and will likely require a trip to Russia.

On public presentation, Mr Lukashenko does not appear fazed by the prospect of economic isolation. In defiant comments on Wednesday, his first since the Sunday incident, he claimed Belarus could replace European markets by moving closer to Russia and Asia. Well substitute Europe, growing mercilessly old, for the rapidly developing Asia, he said.

The EU is currently Belaruss second most important trade partner, after Russia, with the landlocked state uniquely dependent on transit. That means sanctions could carry a serious punch. But Nigel Gould-Davies, a former UK ambassador to Minsk, cautioned against the expectation Western sanctions could provide a quick fix.

It took us ten years of much more severe sanctions on Iran to persuade them to enter the nuclear deal, he said.

The former ambassador said it was difficult to see a way back for Lukashenko in Europe, and sanctions would instead be targeted on persuading those around him.

On reflection, his political and psychological outlook was, is, rooted firmly in the Soviet past, and that meant he was always more comfortable in a complicated, dysfunctional embrace with Vladimir Putins Russia.

Since the end of August, when Mr Putin put an end to Belarusian mass street protests with an offer of security guarantees, Moscow has thrown its lot behind its volatile neighbour. Long-term strategic calculations  not least the optics of ceding power to the street  mean that is not likely to change. But Sundays astonishing incident has certainly created doubts in some quarters.

Natalia and Dmitry Protasevich, the parents of Belarusian journalist Roman Protasevich (AFP via Getty Images)

Belarusian opposition politicians say they have not given up hope that Russia could even facilitate Mr Lukashenkos departure.

Friendship with a dictator is becoming more and more toxic for them, Mr Latushko said. Sooner rather than later they will understand that money spent on him is wasted money

The wobbles on the Russian side contrast with momentum and growing clarity from traditionally trusting Europeans, he added.

They have finally understood who Mr Lukashenko is. The time for illusions has passed.
Russia has refused to let two European commercial aircraft land in Moscow in what appears to be retaliation for a European ban on its own aeroplanes entering Belarusian airspace.

An Austrian Airlines plane from Vienna and an Air France flight from Paris were cancelled on Thursday because the Russian authorities did not grant them permission to fly around Belarus en route.

A Paris-Moscow Air France flight could not take off on Wednesday for the same reason.

The flights needed to avoid Belarusian airspace to comply with an EU order, which came in response to the hijacking of a passenger plane by the countrys autocratic leader Alexander Lukashenko on Sunday.

The Ryanair jet, which was flying from Athens to Vilnius, was forced to land in Minsk after it received reports of a bomb threat, which turned out to be false.

The Lukashenko regime had ordered a MiG-29 fighter plane to escort the passenger plane to ground, as it wanted to arrest two people on board.

Roman Pratasevich, who co-founded Nexta, a platform used by the opposition during last years protests, and his Russian girlfriend Sofia Sapega, were subsequently detained.

As well as denouncing the incident and calling for their release, the EU banned Belarusian carriers from landing in European airports and advised European carriers to not fly over the country.

Russia, it seems, started banning European flights in a show of solidarity with the former Soviet Union state.

Austrias foreign ministry said the Russian reaction is absolutely incomprehensible to us, adding that it was a disproportionate response to the actions taken against Sundays brutal act of air piracy.

This comes as EU leaders met in Lisbon on Thursday to discuss bringing tougher punishments against Belarus. These are thought to include measures targeting its lucrative potash industry.

Speaking about Sundays hijacking, Luxembourgs foreign minister Jean Asselborn said: These are bandit tricks that are being carried out here. That cant be tolerated by the European Union.

The EU however does not want to push Belarus further into Vladimir Putins arms, something harsh penalties could inadvertently do.

Additional reporting from agencies
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Mam | Marketing

"Need of the hour"- industry hails ASCI's new guidelines Is the party over for influencer marketing in India? Or does it get bigger hereon? These are some of the questions playing in the minds of industry players and consumers as the Advertising regulatory body (ASCI) unveiled its long-overdue guidelines for influencer advertising, here on Thursday. Read More...

iWorld | Social Media

ASCI unveils final guidelines for influencer advertising on digital media Advertisers now have a clear set of guidelines on which they can base their influencer driven ads/commercials. Industry watchdog - the Advertising Standards Council of India (Asci) - unveiled the final guidelines for influencer advertising on digital media today. Read More...

Mam | Marketing

Ikea launches new mobile shopping app to boost online presence Ikea, the Swedish-founded, Dutch multinational conglomerate Thursday launched its mobile shopping app in India to boost its customer base. The company made the decision to launch the shopping app in India owing to the rise in popularity of online shopping in the nation. Read More...

Mam | Media And Advertising

Mediacom bags media mandate for Bayer Consumer Health MediaCom India, a GroupM media agency, today announced that it has been awarded the media mandate of Bayer's new Consumer Health division in India. The company envisions making self-care for a better life a reality for billions of people around the world through everyday healthcare. Read More...

Mam | Marketing

BL Agro's ambitious Rs 150 crore expansion plan BL Agro Industries Limited, one of the fastest growing edible oils and food products companies in India, with a turnover of Rs 2500 crore is on an aggressive expansion mode with extensive brand endorsements to reach out to target audiences. Read More...
A federal judge will allow the Cheyenne River Sioux to join legal arguments opposing South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noems efforts to put on a July Fourth firework display at Mount Rushmore.

The Republican governor has sued the Department of the Inter...
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh informed that 10,000 sachets of anti-COVID drug 2-DG will be available in the market from Thursday.

The anti-COVID drug has been developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Hyderabad-based Dr Reddy's Lab.

BCCL

"It is yielding positive results. I have been receiving information from many states that they want 2-DG. I am delighted to say that 10,000 sachets are coming to market today," he added.

The first batch of the anti-COVID drug was released by Defence Minister Singh and Union Health Minister Sr Harsh Vardhan on May 17.

DRDO Chairperson Dr G Satheesh Reddy had informed that the first batch of 2-DG would only be available only to AIIMS, Armed Forces Hospitals, DRDO hospitals, and other places in need. It will be made available to other hospitals in June.

Rajnath Singh/ Twitter

'Should work against various COVID strains'

Reddy had also informed that the new anti-COVID drug 2-DG should work against various strains of the COVID-19 virus.

Last week, the Union Health Ministry had said that 2-DG, reduces a patient's average recovery time by two and a half days and oxygen demand by upto 40 per cent.

"The drug has the potential to become a game-changer in our response against the COVID pandemic as it reduces dependence on oxygen and has the potential to get absorbed differentially," the health minister said.

"In the COVID infected cells, it inhibits virus synthesis and energy production for the process," he added.

NITI Aayog member (health) Dr VK Paul said Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) had granted permission for the emergency of 2-DG and the government will consider including it in the national COVID-19 treatment protocol after examining the data of the medicine.

Rajnath Singh/ Twitter

DRDO also developed antibody test kit

Other than the drug, DRDO has also developed an antibody test kit for the early screening of COVID.

DIPCOVAN, the DIPAS-VDx COVID 19 IgG Antibody Microwell ELISA for sero-surveillance has been developed by the Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences (DIPAS) in association with Delhi-based firm Vanguard Diagnostics Pvt Ltd.

According to DRDO, the kit can detect spike as well as nucleocapsid (S and N) proteins of SARS-CoV-2 virus with a high sensitivity of 97 per cent and specificity of 99 per cent. It was developed indigenously by scientists, followed by extensive validation on over 1000 patient samples at various COVID hospitals in Delhi.

BCCL

DRDO said three batches of the product were validated for the last one year. The antibody detection kit is approved by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in April 2021.

In May 2021, the product received regulatory approval from the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) and Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to manufacture for sale and distribution.

DRDO

According to DRDO, DIPCOVAN is intended for the qualitative detection of IgG antibodies in human serum or plasma, targeting SARS-CoV-2 related antigens. It offers a significantly faster turn-around time as it requires only 75 minutes to conduct the test without any cross-reactivity with other diseases. The kit has a shelf life of 18 months.

Vanguard Diagnostics Pvt. Ltd is expected to launch the product commercially by the first week of June 2021. Readily available stock at the time of launch will be 100 kits (approximately 10,000 tests) with a production capacity of 500 kits/month after the launch. It is expected to be available at about Rs 75 per test.
SK hynix's chip-making plant in Icheon, Gyeonggi Province / Courtesy of SK hynix



By Baek Byung-yeul



Korea approved SK hynix's planned acquisition of Intel's NAND flash business, deciding the acquisition won't hurt fair trade competition and isn't against antitrust issues.



The Fair Trade Commission (FTC) said Thursday its final approval of the planned acquisition is because it is unlikely to limit competition, as the combined market share of the two companies' NAND business is still lower than the No. 1 company Samsung Electronics.



"With the acquisition, SK hynix will be able to strengthen its competitiveness in the memory semiconductor market by beefing up NAND flash, which has poor performance compared to its flagship DRAM business, and Intel will be able to clean up its non-mainstream business, which accounts for less than 10 percent of its total sales," the FTC said.



Last October, SK hynix reached an agreement to acquire Intel's NAND flash memory chip business for $9 billion. After the agreement, SK submitted applications for approval to antitrust regulators in other countries including Korea.



According to market tracker TrendForce, SK hynix was the fourth-largest NAND flash maker with a 12.3 percent share in the January-March period of this year, while Intel was the No. 6 company with a market share of 7.5 percent. Samsung had the largest share of 33.5 percent, followed by Kioxia with 18.7 percent and Western Digital with 14.7 percent.



Because of the deal, SK Group's semiconductor affiliate will be positioned to become the world's No. 2 NAND flash memory chip manufacturer with a combined share of around 20 percent. Unlike DRAM chips, which can only write and store data, NAND chips are used to store data even when a digital device is powered down. The usage of NAND chips is increasingly expanding into server computing systems.



SK already received two approvals from the U.S. last year and the European Union on May 21, and the company is waiting for the review results in other countries including China, the U.K., Taiwan, Brazil and Singapore.



SK hynix welcomed the FTC's approval. "We welcome the Fair Trade Commission's decision to approve the acquisition. We will work closely with the authorities to achieve positive results in other countries as well," an SK hynix official said.



The FTC also granted approval to AMD over the U.S. chip giant's acquisition of adaptive computing platforms company Xilinx, saying it judged that there are no concerns about competition restrictions because the two companies' main businesses are different. AMD signed the acquisition deal last year for $35 billion.


ANI

According to ANI, dozens of bodies, believed to be COVID-19 victims have washed up on the banks of Sarayu river in Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh. Locals fear that water will be contaminated which will further lead to rapid spread of the COVID-19 disease as just 30 kilometers from where the corpses were seen floating, is the district headquarters, which gets its supply of drinking water from the river. Read more



Here a some more top news that came in through the day.

Safe For 12+, 'Highly Effective' Against New Variants: Why Pfizer Is Seeking Fast-Track Nod

AFP

Pfizer has told Indian authorities that its jab has shown "high effectiveness" against the SARS-CoV-2 variant prevalent in India, while it is suitable for everyone aged 12 years or above and can be stored for a month at 2-8 degrees, sources said. The 2-8 degrees storage is a gamechanger as previously the vaccine was said to only be storable at a much lower temperature that's colder than most standard refrigerators and cold storage can provide. Read more



As #ArrestRamdev Trends, He Fires Fresh Shots At IMA, Says 'Nobody Can Arrest Him

BCCL

A day after the Uttarakhand chapter of the IMA sent a Rs 1,000 crores defamation notice to the yoga guru for his recent statements on allopathy doctors and medicine Ramdev has once again hit back at IMA. In a new video that surfaced online, he can be heard saying: Khair, arrest toh unka baap bhi nahi kar sakta Swami Ramdev ko (Anyway, even their father cant arrest Swami Ramdev). Read more



Mehul Choksi Who Fled Antigua Detained In Dominica, Could Be Deported To India Soon

BCCL

Mehul Choksi, one of the key accused in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam case who was reported missing from his hideout in Antigua a couple of days ago has been detained in Dominica. The fugitive diamantaire who is wanted by the CBI and the ED in connection with the Rs 13,500 crore fraud case was reported missing on Sunday from Antigua and Barbuda, where he had taken citizenship, sparking a manhunt for the fugitive businessman. Read more



Former Radio Jockey Turns 'Ration Jockey' To Help Those Struggling Through The Pandemic

ANI

Ashish, a former radio jockey from Vadodara, who is providing ration to people affected by the pandemic. He has been running a campaign called 'ration jockey' for the past 18 days now. He says he delivers ration kits that have food relief that could last for 10-15 days. He added, "One over, they call me if they need more kits. 310-320 kits distributed so far." Read more
Mehul Choksi, one of the key accused in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam case who was reported missing from his hideout in Antigua a couple of days ago has been detained in Dominica.

The fugitive diamantaire who is wanted by the CBI and the ED in connection with the Rs 13,500 crore fraud case was reported missing on Sunday from Antigua and Barbuda, where he had taken citizenship, sparking a manhunt for the fugitive businessman.

File Image

On Sunday, the Commissioner of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, Atlee Rodney, had said the force is currently following up on the whereabouts of Choksi, who is reportedly missing.

Interpol's yellow notice issued

Police in Dominica captured Choksi on Tuesday night (local time) after an Interpol Yellow Notice was issued by Antigua and Barbuda.

The Yellow Notice is issued by Interpol to track missing persons.

BCCL

Choksi, who was last seen going for dinner in his car in Antigua and Barbuda on Sunday reportedly fled to the neighboring island on a boat.

He was reported as missing by his employees when he did not return.

Choksi took Antigua and Barbuda citizenship in 2017

Choksi had taken citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda in 2017 using the Citizenship by Investment programme before escaping India in the first week of January 2018.

Following his escape and capture Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne has asked Dominica to hand the diamantaire over to India directly, local media reported.

BCCL

"We asked them not to repatriate him to Antigua. He needs to return to India where he can face the criminal charges levelled against him," Antigua News Room, a media outlet, quoted Browne's interaction with journalists.

Browne later confirmed to ANI that Dominica has agreed Choksi's repatriation and Antigua will not accept him back.

Browne said he has requested PM Skerrit and law enforcement in Dominica to not return Choksi to Antigua where he has legal and constitutional protections as a citizen.

"We've requested that he be detained and to make arrangements with Dominican govt to have him returned to India," he said.

62-year-old Choksi has been evading Indian agencies and had repeatedly refused to come to the country for interrogation.

Choksi along with his nephew Nirav Modi who had defrauded the PNB using fraudulent LoUs had fled India in January 2018 before the scam surfaced.

The Telegraph

While Choksi fled to the Caribbean, Modi has been hiding in London where he has arrested in March 2019.

He too is facing extradition to India in connection with the case.
As India continues to ramp up indigenous production of anti-coronavirus jabs, vaccine giant Pfizer recently offered their COVID-19 vaccine to India.

Now, Pfizer has told Indian authorities that its jab has shown "high effectiveness" against the SARS-CoV-2 variant prevalent in India and on people of Indian ethnicity or nationality, while it is suitable for everyone aged 12 years or above and can be stored for a month at 2-8 degrees, sources said.

AFP

2-8 degrees storage a gamechanger

The 2-8 degrees storage is a gamechanger as previously the vaccine was said to only be storable at a much lower temperature that's colder than most standard refrigerators and cold storage can provide.

Pfizer, which is ready to offer 5 crore doses to India between July and October this year and has sought certain relaxations including indemnification, has held a series of interactions with the Indian government authorities recently including one this week, during which it shared the most recent data points regarding efficacy trials and approvals for its vaccine in various countries and by the World Health Organisation (WHO).



AFP

"The current situation in India, and across the world, is not business as usual' and we must not respond to it with processes as usual too," news agency PTI quoted sources as saying.



Pfizer, govt to jointly work on 3 key issues

PTI sources further said that Pfizer and the government have agreed to jointly work on three key issues -- procurement through a central government pathway, indemnity and liability and the regulatory requirement for post-approval bridging studies -- to accelerate approval for the company's COVID-19 vaccine in India.

"The timely alignment and execution of the draft Heads of Terms will enable Pfizer to reserve the allocation of doses and pave the pathway for executing the Distribution and Supply Agreement," Pfizer told the government during the meeting.

Reuters

Pfizer has said India should "rely on the 44 authorizations, including WHO approval, facilitate a EUA (Emergency Use Authorisation)/Restricted Use pathway for the Pfizer vaccine in India, and not seek a local PSA (Post Approval Commitment) study."

The company is, however, open to considering safety surveillance of the first 100 subjects after understanding the process to be followed. It has also stated that the Pfizer vaccine has undergone significant development over the last six months which includes improvement in storage conditions at 208 degrees for over one month (31 days) at the site of vaccination.

"High vaccine effectiveness" against variants

"Recent data points confirm the high effectiveness of BNT612b2 2-dose regimen against SARS-CoV-2 variants, and among individuals of Indian ethnicity," Pfizer has said. Providing data, it said UK's Public Health England (PHE) has reported high vaccine effectiveness (87.9 per cent) against the B.1.617.2 variant, most reported in India, in an observational study (concluded on May 22, 2021).

Reuters

It further said 26 per cent of study participants overall were of "Indian or British Indian" ethnicity, and also included Bangladeshi (1.4 per cent), Pakistani (5.9 per cent) and any other Asian background (5.7 per cent), indicating that the observed vaccine effectiveness applies to these groups as well.
Today morning, most of us were surprised to learn that WhatsApp had filed a suit against the Indian government on the grounds that the new intermediary rules laid out by MeitY would end user privacy on its platform.

Reuters

Also Read: WhatsApp Sues Indian Govt, Claims New Intermediary Rules Would End User Privacy

In response, MeitY has now stated that it doesnt intend to do so, Government of India respects the Right of Privacy and has no intention to violate it when WhatsApp is required to disclose the origin of a particular message.



Government of India respects the Right of Privacy and has no intention to violate it when WhatsApp is required to disclose the origin of a particular message: Ministry of Electronics and IT pic.twitter.com/9CW8IFr7j3  ANI (@ANI) May 26, 2021

MeitY highlights that these requirements only would come in place when the message in question would concern prevention, investigation or punishment of serious offences such as sexually explicit content.

MeitY taking a jab at WhatsApps user-privacy claims

In these statements, MeitY also took a jab at WhatsApp and its new privacy policy on how one one end they use user data and send it to its parent company and on the other make suck claims, At one end, WhatsApp seeks to mandate a privacy policy wherein it will share data of all its user with its parent company, Facebook.

Any operations being run in India are subject to the law of the land. WhatsApps refusal to comply with the guidelines is a clear act of defiance of a measure whose intent can certainly not be doubted: MeitY  ANI (@ANI) May 26, 2021

On other hand, WhatsApp makes every effort to refuse enactment of Intermediary Guidelines necessary to uphold law & order & curb fake news. Any operations being run in India are subject to the law of the land. WhatsApps refusal to comply with the guidelines is a clear act of defiance of a measure whose intent can certainly not be doubted.

Also Read: India Could Block Facebook, Twitter, Instagram From May 26: Here's Why

MeitY further added, As a significant social media intermediary, WhatsApp seeks safe harbour protection as per provisions of the IT Act. However, in a befuddling act, they seek to avoid responsibility and refuse to enact the very steps which permit them a safe harbour provision.

When did all this begin?

In case you were wondering how the hell did the nation flip to such an extent that went on to endanger the existence of social media platforms in just a day, youd be surprised to know that this all started three months ago in February.

On February 25, MeitY laid out a set of new guidelines for OTT and social media platforms to ensure control of what was being shared on these digital platforms.

Reuters

The rules make it compulsory for platforms to allow traceability of the originator of messages, along with a provision for voluntary verification as a means to establish user identity.



The guidelines asked for the setup of an oversight mechanism that would include a committee with representatives from ministries of defence, External Affairs, Home, Information and Broadcasting, Law, IT and Women & Child Development.

Also Read: Twitter Tags Sambit Patras Tweet As Manipulated Media, MeitY Wants Tag Removed



These new guidelines also included appointing compliance officers, a resident grievance officer, a chief compliance officer and a nodal contact person who would overlook the complaints regarding the content on these platforms, monitor and even remove the content, should it deem objectionable.

Platforms that fell under the purview of these new guidelines are those with fixed 5 million users registered users, giving them the status of social media intermediaries. Platforms had to comply with the new guidelines within a three-month period, which ended yesterday. Failure to compliance would strip the platform of their intermediary status and subject them to legal action.

Also Read: Indian Govt Sets New Rules For Online Video Services And Social Media



AP

What about the privacy of users?

MeitY stated that even though privacy of the users is of importance and it is one of our fundamental rights, its not an absolute one, WhatsApps attempt to portray Intermediary Guidelines of India as contrary to Right to privacy is misguided. Contrarily in India, privacy is a fundamental right subject to reasonable restrictions."

"Rule 4(2) (to trace first originator) is an example of such a restriction.



WhatsApps attempt to portray Intermediary Guidelines of India as contrary to Right to privacy is misguided. Contrarily in India, privacy is a fundamental right subject to reasonable restrictions. Rule 4(2) (to trace first originator) is example of such a restriction: MeitY  ANI (@ANI) May 26, 2021
The first man in the world to receive a clinically approved COVID-19 vaccine has died of an unrelated illness.

William Shakespeare, 81, had made history back in December when he became the first man and second person to get a Pfizer jab after Britain approved the experimental shots. The first person was the 90-year-old British grandmother Margaret Keenan.

Reuters

Coventry councillor Jayne Innes, a friend of Shakespeare, said he had died on Thursday (May 20) and added the "best tribute to Bill is to have the jab".



According to a report in BBC, Shakespeare died of a stroke.

Bill, as he was fondly known, passed away after a period of illness at the same hospital where he famously received his vaccine, CoventryLive reported.



The Coventry resident had reportedly worked at Rolls-Royce and served as a parish councillor for many years in the citys Allesley community.

BBC/Family Handout

He made international headlines after getting inoculated at University Hospital Coventry, a major milestone in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic. His name helped draw even more attention to that special moment.



West Midlands Labour group said on Twitter: "Bill made global headlines as [the first] man to have Covid vaccine.

"His decades of service to the party were recently recognised by Labour Party leader Keir Starmer. Our thoughts are with Joy and Bill's family and friends."

Also read: Booked COVID Vaccine Slot? Here Are Things You Must Keep In Mind Before Visiting Centre

We're sorry to hear of the death of Coventry Labour stalwart Bill Shakespeare. Bill made global headlines as 1st first man to have Covid vaccine. His decades of service to the party were recently recognised by @Keir_Starmer. Our thoughts are with Joy and Bill's family & friends. pic.twitter.com/ANCTeGFYEs  West Midlands Labour (@WMLabour) May 24, 2021

Bill will be remembered for many things, including a taste for mischief, said Coventry council member Jayne Innes, who described Shakespeare as an international sensation.



He is survived by his wife, Joy, their two sons and several grandchildren, the BBC reported.



Also read: 90-Year-Old Woman Walks Through 6 Miles Of Snow To Get A COVID-19 Vaccine Jab


By Kim Hyun-bin



Volvo Construction Equipment (CE) is taking action to go emissions-free by 2040. Melker Jernberg, president of Volvo CE, is set to present how Volvo CE's procedures to eliminate emissions and discuss how collaboration between industry, academia and governments is needed to realize a carbon-neutral society, at the Green Technology special session of the 2021 Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030 (P4G) Seoul Summit.



Jernberg has been invited as a keynote speaker of the Green Technology session for the 2021 P4G Seoul Summit. The special session will be held virtually at 8 p.m. on May 28, two days prior to the P4G Seoul Summit.





Volvo CE President Melker Jernberg / Courtesy of Volvo Group Korea
Vice President Kamala Harris kicked off the launch of the AAPI Victory Alliance May 19, noting that the U.S. has a unique opportunity to reshape itself post-pandemic. The work of the AAPI Victory Alliance is so important. It is the work of mobilizing our AAPI community, strengthening the community, and strengthening our democracy, said the Indian American vice president. (Zoom screen grab)
As the national partner of Hope Squad, Holy Kombucha will raise awareness with Hope Squad through Theresas Message: A Mothers Help, speaking to parents, schools, and administrators on the importance of this successful program to spread hope and love to at-risk kids.
Real-time social media posts from local businesses and organizations across Northern Virginia, powered by Friends2Follow. To add your business to the stream, email cfields@insidenova.com or click on the green button below.




Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction, the nuclear plant arm of Doosan Group, was a part Korea's first overseas nuclear plant project, Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant in the United Arab Emirates. Korea Times file



By Yi Whan-woo



Doosan Group is expected to benefit from the agreement reached between the leaders of Korea and the United States on nuclear plants last week, after undergoing massive restructuring due to the Moon Jae-in administration's nuclear phase-out policy.



During their summit, Moon and U.S. President Joe Biden agreed to cooperate in tapping into overseas nuclear markets, including joint participation in nuclear power plant projects.





Company logo of Doosan Group / Korea Times file
With voters shifting major new responsibilities to them, Pennsylvanias state lawmakers are now tasked with deciding whether hundreds of state government regulations waived during the COVID-19 pandemic should be reinstated.

This massive review is fueled by Tuesdays referendum in which voters became the first in the nation to curb their governors emergency powers, approving constitutional amendments that will give lawmakers much more power over disaster declarations.

A key component of a disaster declaration is a governors authority to waive a regulation, and one waived regulation that Republicans want restored is the work-search requirements for people claiming unemployment benefits.

On Thursday, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf renewed the disaster declaration, his fifth straight in response to the coronavirus.

If the provisions of the constitutional amendments approved Tuesday apply to it, Wolfs new disaster declaration will expire in three weeks. Before Tuesday, an emergency declaration by a governor could last for up to 90 days and be extended without limit.

That could leave lawmakers in charge of deciding whether to extend the whole declaration past its expiration on June 9, including the work-search requirement.

The decision that we face now is, do we extend and renew the disaster declaration in whole, in part or not at all, said Jason Gottesman, a spokesperson for House Majority Leader Kerry Benninghoff, R-Centre.

Wolf on Wednesday spoke with the Legislatures top Republicans and Democrats on how to chart a way forward with the Legislatures new powers over disaster declarations.

Even though Wolf opposed the constitutional amendment, he pledged to work together with lawmakers. Lawmakers were still getting information Thursday from state agencies about which regulations were waived and why.

In recent months, the Wolf administration has secured bipartisan support for aspects of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout and measures to stem the spread of the virus through working with a task force that has appointees from each party in each legislative chamber.

A task force would have its work cut out.

The suspended regulations cover a wide swath of government requirements, everything from training and inspections to the rights and living standards of people in group homes and children in foster care.

At the Department of Labor and Industry, regulations were suspended related to boiler inspections, asbestos removal and the safety of stuffed animal toys.

The Health Department granted medical marijuana dispensaries the ability to fulfill orders with curbside delivery while the Department of State gave funeral directors more time to process corpses in case of a COVID-19-related surge.

Wolf has said that orders aimed at stemming the spread of the virus are unaffected by the constitutional amendments, although Republicans have urged Wolf to speed up the expiration of his last remaining measures.

Wolf has largely lifted those orders, with the remaining limitations on crowd capacity lifting after May 30, Memorial Day. Republicans have asked for those last remaining limitations to expire before the Memorial Day weekend.

Also still in force is a mask-wearing mandate for the unvaccinated that tracks federal guidance, until 70% of adults are vaccinated.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics COVID-19 Legislation Pennsylvania
The lawsuit surrounding the death of a woman who was accidentally buried alive on a Maryland beach by a tractor has been dismissed from federal court.

The Daily Times reports that attorneys representing Ocean City and the victims mother filed a joint motion Tuesday stipulating the dismissal of the claims with prejudice. It doesnt say whether there was a settlement, but documents filed earlier this year stated both parties had made substantial progress toward resolution and were hopeful the matter could be resolved soon.

In the lawsuit filed in 2019, Gayla Lutyk and her attorney say town workers negligence caused her daughter, 30-year-old Ashley OConnor, to be trapped in the sand in 2017. The lawsuit alleged that workers didnt investigate whether anyone was on the beach before twice driving a tractor over the Plano, Texas, woman as it covered holes. The suit sought $1 million in damages.

Ocean City officials had stated that a medical examiner ruled OConnors death accidental, caused by asphyxia due to suffocation.

Edward Brown, attorney for Lutyk, declined to discuss the case when contacted Tuesday. Bruce Bright, who represented Ocean City, couldnt be reached for a comment.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits Maryland
An insurer could have to pay for a Pennsylvania taverns business interruption losses after it shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic because of a two-letter word in its policy.

The Pennsylvania Court of Common Pleas for Allegheny County has ruled in favor of MacMiles LLC, doing business as Grant Street Tavern, in its business interruption lawsuit brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. The court granted insurance coverage for the taverns loss of business income during the pandemic, partly because of the word or in its insurance policy.

Grant Street Tavern is a restaurant and bar located in the downtown neighborhood of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Its insurer, Erie Insurance Exchange, is a reciprocal insurance exchange based in Erie, Pennsylvania.

Erie initially issued Grant Street Tavern an ultra plus commercial general liability policy for a one-year period beginning September 12, 2019. The insurance contract was an all-risk policy providing coverage for any direct physical loss or direct physical damage unless specifically excluded or limited by the contract.

In March and April of 2020, to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf issued a series of mandates restricting operations for certain businesses throughout the state. As a result of the orders, Grant Street Tavern suspended its business operations and submitted a claim for coverage under its insurance contract, which Erie denied.

On September 29, 2020, Grant Street Tavern filed a complaint in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County for declaratory judgment and breach of contract regarding the business income protection, civil authority and extra expense provisions of its insurance contract. In December 2020, Grant Street Tavern filed a motion for partial summary judgment, and in March 2021, Erie filed a cross motion for judgment on the pleadings.

Business Income Protection

In order to make a claim for coverage under the income protection provision of its insurance contract, Grant Street Tavern would need to show that it suffered direct physical loss of or damage to its property, according to the court opinion.

Erie contended that direct physical loss of or damage to property requires a physical altercation of or harm to the property. However, Grant Street Tavern claimed that this provision is not limited to physical damage but also includes the loss of use of property.

The court found that while some courts have interpreted direct physical loss of or damage to property to require some form of physical harm to property in order for the insured to be entitled to coverage, it said these interpretations conflate direct physical loss of with direct physical . . . damage to and ignore that these two phrases are separated by the word or.

Because of the word or in the policy, the court found that direct physical loss of means something different than direct physicaldamage to.

The court also determined that based on the ordinary, dictionary definitions of the terms direct and physical, Grant Street Tavern could suffer direct and physical loss of use of its property without any tangible harm to property.

Erie further claimed in the lawsuit that the amount of insurance provision in the insurance contract necessitates tangible damage because it references a time frame for rebuilding, repairing or replacing property.

However, the court pointed to the word or in the policy once again in this case. It found that the amount of insurance provision imposes a time limit on available coverage that ends when any rebuilding, repairs or replacements are completed to damaged property, or 12 months after the initial date of loss.

To put this another way, the amount of insurance provision provides that coverage ends when plaintiffs business is once again operating at normal capacity after damaged or destroyed property is fixed or replaced, or within twelve months from the initial date of loss in circumstances where it is not necessary to fix or replace damaged or destroyed property, or it is not feasible to do so within a twelve month time frame, the court found.

As a result, the court moved in favor of Grant Street Taverns motion for partial summary judgment regarding the income protection provision of its insurance contract.

Civil Authority Coverage

Another issue that arose in this case is whether Grant Street Tavern is entitled to coverage under the civil authority provision of its insurance contract.

To be entitled to this coverage, Grant Street Tavern would have to prove that COVID-19 was actually present on property within a mile of its own and that the actions of civil authority  in this case, the governors shutdown orders  were taken in response to dangerous physical conditions causing damage to the property or impeding access to the damaged property.

The court found no substantial proof of whether COVID-19 caused damage to property, whether it was present at any particular property and the extent to which the governors orders were issued in response to property damaged by COVID-19.

As a result, the court denied Grant Street Taverns motion for partial summary judgment regarding the civil authority provision of its insurance contract.

Our legal team is very pleased with the opinion and hope that Erie will accept the judges decision and finally pay the coverage that our clients, and others, paid for and need, Schmidt Kramer PCs Scott Cooper, an attorney for Grant Street Tavern in the case, told Insurance Journal in an email. Erie did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Grant Street Taverns motion for partial summary Judgment regarding its claim for declaratory judgment on the income protection coverage was granted, while its motion for partial summary judgment regarding its claim for declaratory judgment on the civil authority coverage was denied. Eries cross motion for judgement on the pleadings was also denied.

The case is Macmiles v. Erie Insurance Exchange.

Topics COVID-19 Profit Loss Restaurant Business Interruption
The Ardonagh Group, a leading UK insurance broker, announced it has agreed to acquire the insurance operations of BGC Partners Inc. for $500 million in cash.

The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2021, subject to regulatory approvals.

Ardonagh will acquire 100% of Ed Broking Group and Besso Insurance, which were recently grouped together under the brand of Corant Global. Corant comprises global wholesale and specialty re/insurance broker Ed, Lloyds broker Besso, aviation specialist Piiq Risk Partners, German marine broker Junge, UK-based MGA Globe Underwriting, Australian MGA Epsilon Underwriting and European MGA Cooper Gay.

Approximately 900 people currently work across each of these insurance brands, which contributed approximately $191 million in revenue during the 12-month period ending March 31, 2021.

Ardonagh intends to house the former BGC entities within its Ardonagh Specialty segment, which currently comprises Price Forbes, Bishopsgate and Compass London Markets.

Ardonagh said it will fund the purchase via a combination of equity and debt. In 2020, the company announced it had secured a $2 billion loan for acquisitions.

Since then, the company has been busy fulfilling its M&A strategy. In March 2021, an Ardonagh subsidiary, Towergate, announced it had agreed to purchase the corporate retail book of business of AFL Insurance Brokers. In April, the company launched Ardonagh Global Partners (AGP), a unit focused on international mergers and acquisitions. At the same time, it announced it had acquired Chicago-based AccuRisk Solutions, which specializes in medical stop loss, occupational accident and supplemental health products for small and mid-sized businesses. Other strategic purchases this year have been made in the UK and Australia.

Commenting on the BGC acquisition, Ardonagh CEO David Ross, said: This is a compelling shakeup of the global wholesale landscape, bringing two of the last remaining independent outfits of scale together to create the largest privately owned specialty broker in London, safeguarding choice for both clients and employees.

This is a hugely complementary acquisition, aligning and accelerating our ambitions in the global specialty arena, said CEO of Ardonagh Specialty, James Masterton. The specialist broking and underwriting teams within the BGC operations are highly respected in their fields and their market leading progress in digitization matches our own. We know that clients are looking for more innovation, for both product and capacity delivery, and our joined-up efforts in this space will ensure we remain competitive.

Ardonagh is an excellent partner to continue our insurance brokerage business. The combined platform will add to their strength, capability, and create the worlds leading independent specialty insurance broker, affirmed Howard W. Lutnick, chairman and chief executive officer of BGC, headquartered in New York and London.

While our insurance brokerage business provided less than 10% of BGCs total revenue over the trailing 12-months, the $500 million of cash that we expect to receive represents over 17% of BGCs fully diluted market capitalization, he said in a statement.

BGC said the sale proceeds will provide additional capital to invest in its Fenics business, which operates electronic trading platforms.

While the growth of our insurance brokerage business was industry-leading, we believe the scale and scope of the Fenics opportunity is far greater, with potential to drive shareholder value materially higher, Lutnick added.

Formed in 2017, Ardonaghs brands include Autonet, Arachas, Bishopsgate, Broker Network, Carole Nash, Compass Networks, Ethos Broking, Geo Underwriting, Price Forbes, Swinton, Towergate and URIS. With a UK headquarters in London, Ardonaghs registered address is in St. Helier, Jersey, one of the Channel Islands off the coast of the UK.

Ardonagh describes itself as the UKs largest independent insurance distribution platform and a top 20 broker globally.
CAIRO  The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) said on Tuesday it was still open to negotiating with the owners of a giant container ship which blocked traffic in the waterway for six days in March despite an ongoing litigation process in an Egyptian court.

The Ever Given, one of the worlds largest container ships, became jammed across the canal in high winds on March 23, halting traffic in both directions and disrupting global trade.

On Sunday the court rejected a claim by Shoei Kisen, the Japanese owners of the vessel, to have the vessel released from detention.

The SCA is seeking compensation of $916 million for the disruption suffered but said on Tuesday it would be willing to accept a reduced sum of $550 million, including a $200 million deposit paid to secure the ships release and the remaining amount payable through letters of credit.

The authority has continued dealing with the situation with complete flexibility during the negotiation procedures with the ships owner to maintain the long relationship with it as one of our most important customers, the SCA said in a statement.

This flexibility also explains the continuation of negotiations despite the ongoing litigation procedures to reach an agreement that suits all parties, it added.

The statement echoed comments by SCA chairman Osama Rabie who also told Egyptian state television on Monday that the Shoei Kisen had only offered $150 million in compensation.

Rabie said investigations into how the ship became stranded in the first place had placed responsibility on the ships captain alone, rebutting arguments from the owners legal team that blamed the SCA for allowing the ship to sail in bad weather.

Twelve ships sailed through the southern section of the Suez Canal on that day despite the weather, the statement said.

(Reporting by Yusri Mohamed; writing by Nadine Awadalla; editing by Mahmoud Mourad and Gareth Jones)

Photograph: This satellite image from Maxar Technologies shows the cargo ship MV Ever Given stuck in the Suez Canal near Suez, Egypt, on Saturday, March 27, 2021. Photo credit: Maxar Technologies via AP.

Topics Lawsuits
BMS, the London-based independent specialist insurance and reinsurance broker, announced it has launched operations in Turkey.

Called BMS Sigorta ve Reasurans Brokerligi, or BMS Turkey, the business is headquartered in Istanbul.

Servet Gurkan, chairman, will lead the new operation along with Tamer Saka and Kerim Gurkan, reporting to Peregrine Towneley, chairman of International Operations, in London.

The new company will focus on specialty lines where the team has identified opportunities, together with facultative and treaty reinsurance services, supported by the groups hubs in London and elsewhere.

BMS Turkeys Executive Team

Gurkan has held leadership roles in underwriting and broking businesses in Turkey for almost four decades including as CEO of Aon Re Turkey and most recently as chairman and CEO of JLT Turkey. Beyond his career in the broking industry, he has also established numerous insurance companies in Turkey and in Cyprus.

With extensive experience in insurance, Saka is a former managing director of Willis for Turkey and the Eurasian region and of managing general agent ProRisk. He has also served in a number of senior roles in Turkish industrial conglomerates, most recently at Sabanci Holdings since 2018, as president of its cement operation, and between 2014 and 2018 at Kibar Holding, where he was CEO.

After starting his career with Ferrari, Gurkan worked as a management consultant at Bain & Co., Italy, and was a managing director and a key producer for JLT Turkey. He recently held a senior leadership role in Flixbus, Europes top mobility provider.

Establishing BMS in Turkey is a key milestone and represents our initial expansion into the Near and Middle East, as well as a bridge to the Commonwealth of Independent States and neighbouring countries, commented Nick Cook, CEO of BMS. It is our intention to build a truly regional business and to provide our existing and future customers with a specialty and reinsurance service of proven professionalism and resilience.

Source: BMS Group

Photograph: Aerial view of Istanbuls business district.
ROME (AP)  Police arrested three people Wednesday in the cable car disaster that killed 14 people in northern Italy, saying workers placed a clamp on the emergency brake to deactivate it as a patchwork repair  one that prevented the brake from engaging when the lead cable snapped.

The revelations, obtained during an overnight police interrogation of the suspects, turned the horror of Sundays disaster into outrage, given the tragedy appeared to have been entirely preventable.

Prosecutor Olimpia Bossi hypothesized that the operators of the sightseeing funicular, which had reopened after a wintertime COVID-19 closure, used the jerry-rigged clamp to avoid having to shut the attraction down for the more extensive, radical repairs that were necessary.

We arrested three people who it turns out were directly involved in a concrete fact: The emergency brake mechanism of the cabin that fell onto the Mottarone slope was manipulated, Bossi told reporters in Verbania, adding that the severity of the disaster warranted their detention.

Bossi said it still wasnt clear why the lead cable snapped or whether it was related to the brake problem. But she said that the intentional deactivation of the brake, done several times over recent weeks for a persistent problem, prevented the brake from doing its job.

After the lead cable broke Sunday, the cabin reeled back down the line until it hit the pylon and pulled off entirely. It crashed to the ground and rolled over down the mountainside until it came to rest against some trees. Fourteen people were killed; the lone survivor, a 5-year-old boy, remains hospitalized.

Carabinieri Lt. Col. Alberto Cicognani said at least one of the three people questioned overnight admitted to what happened. He said the fork-shaped clamp had been placed on the emergency brake to deactivate it because the brake was engaging spontaneously and preventing the funicular from working.

The cable car line reopened from lockdown April 26 and was bringing sightseers to the top of the Mottarone peak overlooking Lake Maggiore on the first sunny Sunday since then. The jerry-rigged clamp was still in place on the brake Sunday morning, Cicognani said, citing information gleaned from the suspects themselves.

Because of a malfunction, the brake was continuing to engage even when it wasnt supposed to, Cicognani told Sky TG24. To prevent the cabin from halting while transporting passengers, they chose to not remove the dispositive that blocked the emergency brake.

In this way, the brake couldnt function, and this brought about the fact that when the cable broke, the cabin fell backwards, he said.

Sky and the LaPresse news agency identified the three people arrested as the owner of the cable car service, the director of the lift and the service chief.

Bossi, the Verbania prosecutor heading the investigation, said the deactivation of the brake was clearly designed as a stop-gap measure to allow the funicular to continue operating. She told reporters that investigators think it was done with the full knowledge of the cable car companys owners.

The development, while the town of Stresa at the foot of Mottarone was still recovering from the trauma of Sundays disaster, is another blow, news reports quoted Stresa Mayor Marcella Severino as saying.

The investigation was continuing, but the mayor of the hometown of one of the victims, Serena Cosentino, announced that the city would pursue legal action against those responsible. The mayor said the city of Diamonte, in southern Calabria, would present itself as an injured party in the civil portion of any possible prosecution.

The news, unfortunately, is showing a broad picture of responsibility and omissive guilt, Mayor Ernesto Magorno said in a statement.

The developments in the investigation came as doctors at Turins Regina Margherita pediatric hospital reported that the lone survivor of the disaster, 5-year-old Eitan Biran, had begun to open his eyes after they gradually brought him out of sedation.

Biran suffered several broken bones in the crash, which killed his parents, younger brother and great-grandparents. An aunt who was not in the cable car was with him at the hospital.

The Israeli family had been living in Italy and on Wednesday, members of the areas Jewish community attended a prayer ceremony for the victims before their remains were transported back to Israel for burial.

Photograph: Rescuers work by the wreckage of a cable car after it collapsed near the summit of the Stresa-Mottarone line in the Piedmont region, northern Italy, on Sunday, May 23, 2021. Photo credit: Soccorso Alpino e Speleologico Piemontese via AP.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Law Enforcement
From left, EDGC's Chief Technology Officer Lee Sung-hoon, CEO Lee Min-seob, Chief Medical Officer Kim Geong-cheol and healthcare business department director Cho Sung-min during the company's ONCOCATCH brand launch webinar on May 23 / Courtesy of EDGC





By Ko Dong-hwan







The Korean genetic sequencing firm Eone Diagnomics Genome Center (EDGC) has launched an official brand for its advanced early cancer detection technology, paving the way for exports of the service to enter markets in and outside the country.







The company based in Incheon's Songdo held a webinar on May 23 to launch ONCOCATCH, a liquid biopsy-based technology. The brand's name comes from oncology.







EDGC Co-CEO Lee Min-seob said during the online seminar that ONCOCATCH can parse one's genetic data to scan the person's unique health blueprint and detect signs of cancer without performing a biopsy, which has been the traditional method.







Lee started off the seminar with a presentation about "precision medical cancer treatment through genetic revolution." Chief Technology Officer Lee Sung-hoon, Chief Medical Officer Kim Geong-cheol, and healthcare business team leader Cho Sung-min also delivered lectures.







The in-vitro cancer-diagnostic service ONCOCATCH comes with ONCOCATCH-S for lung cancer screening, ONCOCATCH-E for colon, breast and stomach cancer, ONCOCATCH-CDx for all types of solid cancer, and ONCOCATCH-M for monitoring relapsed cancers and the effects of anti-cancer treatments.







The technology was approved by the country's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in March for good manufacturing practice (GMP) of its clinical trials.







With the technology, EDGC has been working on completing the predictive diagnosis of cancer by detecting signs of a circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA)  a precursor to developing cancer. If there is any ctDNA, it exists in an extremely small amount among circulating free DNA (cfDNA) in blood.







EDGC says its super-precision medical technology in ONCOCATCH can benefit people by enabling them to preemptively discover whether they will have cancer, find out if a cancer they had treated will relapse, and see the effectiveness of anti-cancer treatments for them.







The company aims to introduce the early cancer detection health service to Korea as early as late 2022 following the ministry's approval for commercialization. The service is already in use at Hong Kong's Union Medical Healthcare and Pb Medicom-In in Dnipro, Ukraine.


Nearly 100 more people died in traffic crashes in Michigan last year than in 2019, according to preliminary data released by the state police.

The state police Criminal Justice Information Center said on May 26 that 1,083 people were killed in 2020, compared to 985 in 2019. The deaths last year are the most since 1,084 people were killed in crashes in 2007.

Crashes and the number of people injured were down in 2020.

Data shows 60,986 injuries in 2020 and 74,963 in 2019. There were 314,377 crashes in 2019 and 245,432 last year.

Traffic deaths involving alcohol increased from 295 in 2019 to 326 last year.

Even though there was a dramatic drop in traffic crashes and injuries during 2020, there was an unfortunate surge in fatalities, said Michael L. Prince, Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning director.

Prince said his office will be coordinating high-visibility enforcement campaigns this summer focusing on impaired driving and seat belt use to reverse the trends we are seeing.

Fatalities involving bicycles, motorcycles and pedestrians all increased last year over 2019.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Trends Law Enforcement Michigan
Two Michigan companies face nearly $200,000 in combined proposed penalties after two workers were killed in the collapse at an Ohio power plant.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration said that Killen Power Generation Stations building collapsed unexpectedly on Dec. 9, 2020, its steel beams fell on and killed two workers employed to demolish the facility  a laborer cutting steel and a truck driver preparing to move the scrap metal off-site.

OSHA investigated the multi-employer project and cited two Michigan companies  general contractor Adamo of Detroit and SCM Engineering Demolition Inc. of East China.

OSHA cited both for multiple safety violations on the demolition project, including violations of the general duty clause and failing to inspect the site regularly to detect potential hazards resulting from the demolition process, such as weakened or deteriorated floors, walls and loosened material.

OSHA also determined that the companies allowed employees to continue working under hazardous conditions without adding shoring, bracing, or other means to steady the structure, and failed to train them on identifying potential hazards.

OSHA has proposed penalties of $181,724 to Adamo for one willful, repeat, serious and other-than-serious safety violations. SCM Engineering faces penalties of $12,288 for three serious violations.

Both companies have 15 business days from receipt of its citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHAs area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

Topics Michigan Ohio
A U.S. judge rejected Bayers $2 billion class action proposal aimed at resolving future lawsuits alleging its Roundup weedkiller causes cancer, saying in a Wednesday order that parts of the plan were clearly unreasonable.

U.S. District Court Judge Vince Chhabria in San Francisco said the proposal would accomplish a lot for Monsanto, which Bayer acquired for $63 billion in 2018, and would accomplish far less for the Roundup users who are currently healthy.

The agreement would have paused litigation linking Roundup to non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) for four years and would have barred Roundup users from seeking punitive damages once the pause on litigation expired.

Bayer Unveils New Roundup Risk Management Plan After Judge Rejects $2B Proposal

In return, users could be eligible for free medical exams and compensation if they were diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

The proposed class action settlement was aimed at claims by people who have been exposed to the weedkiller and who become sick in the future.

Separately, Bayer has committed up to $9.6 billion to resolve ongoing claims of people who blame glyphosate  the main active ingredient in Roundup  for an existing illness. The companys chief executive told analysts this month that 90,000 existing claims have been resolved and 30,000 are still being negotiated.

The company has said that decades of studies have shown that Roundup and glyphosate are safe for human use. Bayer did not respond to requests for comment on the judges decision.

Order Denying The Motion For Preliminary Approval, In Re: Roundup Products Liability Litigation

Elizabeth Cabraser, the attorney who represented the proposed class, said in a statement she was disappointed in the ruling and continued to believe the plan offered class members tremendous financial, health and safety benefits.

NO CLOSURE

Bayer has been criticized by consumer advocates for fighting efforts to add a warning label to Roundup or pull it from the herbicide market, which it dominates along with other glyphosate products.

Bayer has said that the Environmental Protection Agency has approved its label and the company could be accused of misbranding if it added a warning. The EPA has determined glyphosate to be safe.

Chhabria had suggested a warning label might provide a way to prevent future lawsuits, which are based on the theory that Bayer failed to warn consumers of Roundups link to cancer.

Bayer has called the class action settlement proposal one of the building blocks to provide closure on the Roundup litigation.

Leslie Brueckner, an attorney with Public Justice, which objected to the proposal, called the ruling important for public health and said the risk of substantial punitive damages might force Bayer to change.

Chhabrias ruling meant the company faced continued lawsuits, she said.

So as long as Roundup stays on the market, Bayer will continue to be sued by Roundup victims who get NHL, said Brueckner. That means no closure.

The four-year plan would have grouped potentially millions of residential users and farm laborers in a class and provided them the medical exams and up to $200,000 if they were diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Chhabrias six-page order cast doubt on the value of the medical exam offer, given the 10-year to 15-year lag time between exposure and potential onset of cancer symptoms.

He also said most claimants could expect $60,000 or less in compensation and that compensation might not be available after the plan expired.

Attorneys for the class said at last weeks hearing that Bayer could extend the agreement and provide additional compensation.

The judge also questioned how healthy users of Roundup could be adequately notified of a settlement that bound them in the future if they develop NHL.

Mere tweaks cannot salvage the agreement, Chhabria said.

(Reporting by Tom Hals in Wilmington, Delaware; Editing by Noeleen Walder and Bill Berkrot)

Topics Lawsuits Legislation
A Waxahachie, Texas, nurse practitioner has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison and ordered to repay more than $52 million in restitution for his role in a healthcare and insurance fraud scheme, according to Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Prerak Shah.

Trivikram Reddy, 39, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in October 2020. He had been accused of engaging in a scheme to defrauded Medicare and private insurance providers.

According to court documents, Reddy, a licensed nurse practitioner, devised a scheme to defraud Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Humana and Cigna.

According to the U.S. Attorney Office, Reddy and co-conspirators created false patient bills using the provider numbers of six doctors as the treating physicians on the claims. All the claims were false and at no time did the six doctors provide billable services to any of Reddys medical clinics.

On June 3, 2019, federal agents served a civil investigative demand at one of Reddys medical clinics. When law enforcement arrived at the site, agents found Reddys staff manufacturing medical records. Following the encounter, on June 8, Reddy closed the clinic and terminated his business entity with the Texas Secretary of State, the justice department said.

On June 13, 2019, Reddy made the first of multiple wire transfers which, in sum, totaled more than $55 million. A forensic financial analysis directly tied the money to fraudulent health care claims submitted by Reddy.

Federal agents requested medical records to justify millions of dollars of paid Medicare claims paid between January 2014 and June 2019. Reddy and his staff spent the next four months manufacturing fake medical records to turn over to authorities.

This case was investigated by the FBI Dallas Field office and Health and Human Services-Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG). Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna Strittmatter Max and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Smid prosecuted the case.

Source: U.S. Attorneys Office for the Northern District of Texas

Topics Texas Fraud
Oklahoma business owners may soon have a bit more protection against the growing threat of cybercrime as the revised House Bill 1759 passed the House and moves to the Gov. Kevin Stitt for his signature.

HB1759, authored by Rep. Trish Ranson, D-Stillwater, and Sen. Zack Taylor, R-Seminole, updates language in the Oklahoma Computer Crimes Act to better address computer security threats that continue to evolve.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has seen a spike in ransomware cases over the past few years. Just this month, the City of Tulsa was the target of a ransomware attack.

This is a growing problem and like so many areas of government, we have to adapt to a changing world, Ranson said. I hope this legislation is the first step in creating innovative cybercrime legislation in the future.

HB1759 passed the House a second time on May 26. The update to the Computer Crimes Act was recalled from the Governors desk when one of his team members discovered an error in wording. The Senate corrected and sent it back to the House for approval.

Beyond the tangible benefits of this legislation, I am appreciative of the bipartisan work to ensure this needed change happens now, Ranson said. This was a team effort to protect the Oklahoma economy.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Fraud Oklahoma
People protested Tuesday near the Mississippi Capitol and the state Supreme Court building to demand that Gov. Tate Reeves call legislators into special session to restore a medical marijuana initiative that voters approved in November and that justices recently overturned.

In the 6-3 ruling May 14, the state Supreme Court also invalidated Mississippis entire initiative process that allows citizens to petition to bring issues to a statewide vote. Justices said the process is outdated, so the medical marijuana proposal was not properly on the ballot.

About 1.3 million people voted in Mississippi in November, and more than 766,000 of them voted in favor of the medical marijuana proposal, Initiative 65. Thats about 10,000 more residents than voted in November for then-President Donald Trump, who easily won in Mississippi despite losing his race for a second term.

One handwritten sign Tuesday said: New Math: 6 (is greater than) 766K.

Brandon Allen, 35, a military veteran from Pearl, sat holding sign with the slogan: Special Session Now Tater Tot. Allen said he knows veterans who have post traumatic stress syndrome, and marijuana could help them.

I dont think the government should tell people how they should and shouldnt live, Allen said in an interview moments before a band at the event started playing the Willie Nelson song, Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die.

Mississippi is in the minority of states without a medical marijuana program. Legislators annual session ended in early April. Only the governor can call them back to the Capitol, and he decides what topics they may consider. Republican Reeves has given no indication that hell call them back to consider enacting a medical marijuana law.

Madison Mayor Mary Hawkins Butler opposed Initiative 65 because it limited cities ability to regulate the location of marijuana businesses. She and the city of Madison sued the state shortly before the November election, arguing that Mississippis initiative process is flawed and that the medical marijuana proposal should not be on the ballot.

A majority of justices agreed with her arguments. At the heart of their ruling is the fact that Mississippis initiative process, written in the 1990s, requires people to gather one-fifth of signatures from each congressional district. Mississippi had five districts when that was written, but stagnant population meant that the state dropped to four districts after the 2000 Census. Language dealing with the initiative process was never updated, and Butlers attorneys argued that the one-fifth requirement from four districts is mathematically impossible.

When a speaker mentioned Butler during Tuesdays protest, many people booed.

DeAndrea Delaney runs businesses that sell hemp products in Mississippi, and she said on stage at the protest that the vote for the medical marijuana initiative united people across lines that traditionally divide them.

Cannabis  theres no gender gap. Theres no racial gap, Delaney said. Theres no red. Theres no blue. Its just about the green today.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Cannabis Mississippi
Island Insurance Co. has promoted Scott Kuioka to senior vice president and chief operating officer.

Kuioka will continue to serve as chief investment officer and chief risk officer, and oversee the commercial lines-large accounts division, and the personal lines, reinsurance, marketing and facilities departments.

He joined Island Insurance in 2012 and previously held the position of vice president of investments for island insurance and chief investment officer for Tradewind Capital Group. His experience also includes senior vice president of investment management services at Bank of Hawaii and portfolio manager at Mellon Financial in San Francisco, Calif.

Island Insurance is a locally owned insurance carrier, offering a range of property/casualty protection solutions.

The Liberty Company Insurance Brokers has named Lenny Newman a vice president in the San Francisco Bay Area office.

Newman has more than seven years of experience, with stops at Heffernan, Arthur J. Gallagher, and most recently as a producer at McDermottCosta.

Newman specializes in trucking and lawyers professional liability.

The Liberty Company Insurance Brokers is a privately held brokerage firm in Woodland Hills, Calif., with offices throughout the country.

Topics California Agencies
For Vanessa Gregson, the four-lane highway that borders the beach along San Franciscos Pacific Ocean is now an automobile-free sanctuary where she can blissfully ride her bicycle and enjoy the quiet.

You hear the beach. You hear the waves, said Gregson. You feel like youre in nature, and youre in San Francisco.

Like cities from Paris to New York that shut roads to motorists when the coronavirus hit, environmentally friendly San Francisco closed miles of streets to automobiles so people could exercise and socialize safely.

Now, pedestrian advocates want to keep some of San Franciscos most prominent streets off-limits, like the main road into Golden Gate Park. Others are pushing back, saying they need to drive to work, drop off kids and get around.

The debate has been marked by dueling rallies and strident arguments over safety and climate change in the densely packed city. On social media, customers threatened to boycott a bakery whose owner expressed support for reopening the main oceanside thoroughfare known as the Great Highway to cars; others came to her defense.

Shamann Walton, president of San Franciscos Board of Supervisors, was mocked for likening the closure of John F. Kennedy Drive in Golden Gate Park to the Jim Crow South, including by fellow African Americans who call his accusations of segregation silly. Walton says he worries that closing the street and its free parking will affect low-income families that cant easily bike or take transit to the park.

For Tim Boyle, who lives near the four-lane beachside highway, life has been anything but peaceful. Unable to use the main road, massive delivery trucks, gangs of motor bikes and impatient drivers now hurtle through his once-sleepy neighborhood.

Boyle, whose son has cerebral palsy, says taking out their wheelchair-equipped van has become a nightmare. Essentially Im stopping traffic on any given day, four to 10 cars backed up on each side just so I can pull my own car into my driveway, he said.

San Francisco officials started turning streets into pedestrian-friendly promenades in April 2020 after the mayor declared an emergency. Officials closed more than 45 miles of neighborhood corridors and are studying which ones could be permanent.

They also sealed off a 1.5-mile portion of JFK Drive, the main thoroughfare through Golden Gate Park, which sees more than 24 million visitors a year, and a 2-mile stretch of the Great Highway  now renamed by some as the Great Walkway  that carried more than 18,000 vehicles a day before the pandemic.

San Franciscos streets are scheduled to reopen 120 days after Mayor London Breed lifts the COVID-19 emergency declaration, which could come next month. Various agencies are navigating the public debate before deciding whether to fully reopen the Great Highway and JFK Drive, open them in part or keep them closed to vehicles. The Board of Supervisors will have the final say, said Tamara Aparton, a city parks spokeswoman.

Seattle and New York are also among U.S. cities looking to make temporary auto-free streets permanent. In Europe, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo announced plans to ban most vehicular through-traffic in the citys center, with exceptions for public transit, delivery trucks and residents.

Pedestrian advocates say there are options to ensure that people who cant easily bike or walk can still visit Golden Gate Park, including designated drop-off sites and programs for low-income families. They also want more so-called street calming measures to slow traffic and improve safety on affected neighborhood roads.

San Francisco is no stranger to shedding auto infrastructure for green spaces. Leaders chose not to replace the Embarcadero freeway after it was damaged in the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, replacing it with a boulevard that now doubles as a popular tourist destination.

Despite the testy debate, most people are probably in the silent middle, wanting both open space and clear transportation routes, said Connie Chan, a supervisor whose district is affected by the closures along the beach and in Golden Gate Park. They just want to be able to go where they need to go, and not be stuck in traffic, she said.

Katharine Lusk, co-director of the Boston University Initiative on Cities, said more than 90% of 130 U.S. mayors in 38 states surveyed last summer reported they created more space for outdoor dining by using parking spots or closing streets. Nearly half closed some streets to through-traffic; a smaller portion shut streets entirely to autos. While only 6% said they plan to make those changes permanent, Lusk wonders if that might change with rising demand.

On a recent sunny weekday, a few dozen people organized by Walk San Francisco toasted the one-year anniversary of the street closure in Golden Gate Park. Charles Oppenheimer said his daughter Olivia, 11, once feared riding through the third most-visited city park in the United States.

Theres cars double-parked and rage drivers through the park, honking at kids, and now that its shut down, its so much better, he said.

Near the west end of Golden Gate Park, more than 100 people gathered before blockades on the highway earlier this month, waving signs calling to reopen the road. Passing drivers honked in support as a musician blew tunes on a bright pink sousaphone.

The highway runs two lanes each way, with sandy beach and the Pacific Ocean on one side and a protected pedestrian path edged by succulents on the other. A parallel two-lane street has homes on one side, many with placards pleading to Open the Great Highway.

Since the neighboring streets began absorbing displaced traffic, Judi Gorski has documented numerous crashes. The car fumes, speeding, noise and near-wrecks make her feel trapped in her home of four decades, where she says the traffic goes on all night long.

For photographer Steve Rhodes, who walked one recent day along the nearly empty Great Highway after visiting the de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park, it is liberating to have the space to move around.

The intersections with the cars are just a nightmare, he said. There should be more streets closed and its going to have to happen, because people are going to have to rely less on cars.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Auto




Iran has banned the energy-intensive mining of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin for nearly 4 months, President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday, as the country faces major power blackouts in many cities.







"The ban on the mining of cryptocurrencies is effective immediately until September 22 ... Some 85 percent of the current mining in Iran is unlicensed," Rouhani said in a televised speech at a cabinet meeting.







Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are created through a process known as mining, where powerful computers compete with each other to solve complex mathematical problems. The process is highly energy intensive, often relying on electricity generated by fossil fuels, which Iran is rich in.







As next month's presidential election approaches, the blackouts have been widely criticized by Iranians. The government has blamed the power cuts on cryptocurrency mining, drought and surging electricity demand in summer.







According to blockchain analytics firm Elliptic, around 4.5 percent of all Bitcoin mining takes place in Iran, allowing it to earn hundreds of millions of dollars from cryptocurrencies that can be used to lessen the impact of U.S. sanctions.







Iran's economy has been hit hard since 2018, when former President Donald Trump exited Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with six powers and re-imposed sanctions.







U.S. President Joe Biden's administration and other global powers have been in talks with Iran to revive the deal.







Iran has accepted crypto mining in recent years, offering cheap power and requiring miners to sell their bitcoins to the central bank. Tehran allows cryptocurrencies mined in Iran to be used to pay for imports of authorized goods.







The prospect of cheap power has attracted miners, particularly from China, to Iran. Generating the electricity they use requires the equivalent of around 10 million barrels of crude oil a year, or 4 percent of total Iranian oil exports in 2020, according to Elliptic. (Reuters)


Burma Myanmar Daily Post-Coup Update: May 26

An anti-regime rally is held at the Manau Ground in Myitkyina.

To keep you updated on what happened in Myanmar in the last 24 hours, here are the main events of the day more than three months after the putsch.

In Yangon, a man in his 20s was shot dead by junta forces as he fled in fear when junta troops inspected people sitting at a tea shop in Shwepyithar Township, where the military regime has imposed martial law.

Two people were injured in a bomb explosion outside No. 39 Basic Education Primary School in North Okkalapa Township.

In Hlaing Tharyar, two bombs were thrown into the house of a military collaborator. There were no casualties as residents managed to run out of the house in time.

Young people in South Okkalapa Township took to the streets against military rule.

In the US, Myanmar expats staged a demonstration in New York against energy giant Chevron for supporting the Myanmar military regime, and called for sanctions against Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE). There have been calls for oil and gas companies operating in Myanmar to suspend payments to state-owned MOGE as the military regime is funding itself with those payments.

In Shan States Taunggyi, people burned a Chinese national flag in protest at Beijings support for the military regime.

Simultaneous explosions occurred at three different locations in Muse on the Myanmar-China border.

Junta troops arrested five people, four women and a man, who were soliciting donations for war-displaced people at No. 1 Market in Muse. They also took the donated cash.

Local residents in Kyaukme, northern Shan State, took to the streets to protest against the military regime.

The Karenni Peoples Defense Force seized a police outpost in Htee Se Kha Village in Loilem on the border of Shan and Kayah states.

As both the military regime and the National Unity Government have proposed sending delegations to the 74th Health Assembly of the World Health Organization, the organization decided Myanmar would not attend the assembly this year, not knowing which government to recognize.

In Chin State, bombs exploded at two basic education schools in Falam.

Junta troops have been looting shops and houses in Mindat abandoned by fleeing residents, according to local news agencies and residents. Some 90 percent of the 25,000 population have fled their homes since junta forces occupied the town on May 15.

Anti-regime protesters held a Taung Zalat (Rhododendron) flower rally on Kennedy Peak in Tedim.

In Mon State, an explosion was reported near a basic education primary school in Kyaikmaraw Township.

In Myaing Township, Magwe Region, locals, educators and teachers urged people to boycott education under military rule.

In Tanintharyi Regions Dawei, junta forces arrested the owner of a teashop that hosted an anti-regime protest on May 25.

Junta troops beat and arrested four people from a teashop-cum-grocery store in Phaung Taw Village in Yebyu Township, Dawei District, and also stole liquor bottles and some other items from the store.

In Yebyu Township, people called for the immediate release of State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, President U Win Myint and other political prisoners.

In Bago Region, a mail train derailed in Kanyutkwin town after running over a mine. Youths in Bago called for unity in fighting the military dictatorship.

In Sagaing Regions Katha, a police station in Moe Tar Village came under arson attack and was reduced to ashes.

A fire broke out at an oil refinery in the east of Monywa and was put out around an hour later by township firefighters.

A shootout broke out between junta forces and resistance fighters in the village of Chaungzin in Myaung Township, forcing villagers to flee.

Street protests continued in Monywa, Taze and Kale. Villagers rallied against military rule in Salingyi Township.

Buddhist monks from Europe and the US participated in an online campaign to show solidarity with Myanmar people as they demand democracy and fight the military regime.

In Mandalay Region, Buddhist monks held a prayer for the safety of Myanmar civilians. A night protest was held in Pyigyitagun Township.

Street protests continued in different parts of Mandalay with health workers banging on pots and pans to show their opposition to the military regime, and students in Aungmyaythazan protested education under military rule.

In Kachin State, students and locals rallied against the military regime at the Manau Ground in the state capital, Myitkyina.

In Hpakant, anti-regime protesters called on parents not to enroll their children in schools as a gesture of sympathy for young people who have fallen in the countrys fight for democracy.



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Burma Myanmar Junta Auctions Illegal Timber for Hard Currency: EIA

Teak logs at a timber yard in Myanmar in 2015. / EIA

An international environmental investigation agency says Myanmars military regime is seeking hard currency by auctioning large quantities of illegal timber.

The auction is due to be held by the Myanma Timber Enterprise (MTE), the state-run entity which controls Myanmars timber sales.

Todays (Thursday) open tender by the enterprises Export Marketing and Milling Department was announced in state-run newspapers last week.

The Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) said the National League for Democracy government seized about 200,000 tons of illegal timber, which created the stockpile due to be auctioned.

The MTE said 390 tons of teak and 4,030 tons of other hardwood will be auctioned on Thursday in Yangon.

The organization and other groups and individuals involved in Myanmars timber trade have been sanctioned by the US. The EIA warned that any trader paying US dollars to buy wood at the auction is knowingly breaking US sanctions to obtain illegal timber.

Faith Doherty, the EIAs forests campaigns leader, questioned why the state enterprise would hold the auction other than to obtain desperately needed hard currency to continue the juntas brutal persecution of civilians.

Since the February coup, the regime has killed more than 800 civilians and detained thousands of citizens, including journalists.

This is additional confirmation of the EIA allegations that the military regime is using timber to support itself and its reign of terror, Doherty said.

Due to international sanctions and domestic boycotts of military-linked products, the regime has been suffering from a shortage of hard currency.

The MTEs auction allows traders to place a deposit of US$10,000 (16.5 million kyats) before bidding for a final price. All transactions are finalized in US dollars and the process is opaque, without any transparency or traceability until the deposit is paid, according to the EIA.

Last week, the US Treasury placed U Khin Maung Yi, the military-appointed minister of natural resources, environment and conservation, on its special designated national list to block his assets and prohibit US citizens from dealing with him.

It also gives the US Treasurys Office of Foreign Assets Control the power to investigate his activities and connections, including any companies engaged in business with him and the MTE.

The EIA has been monitoring timber seizures in Myanmar for several years and has long been warning timber traders seeking to import Burmese teak and other precious hardwoods that without clear, verified information on its origin, all timber imported from the country is illegal.



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Myanmar Daily Post-Coup Update: May 26
Burma Myanmar Junta Official Killed as Explosions Rock Yangon Township

The ward administrator of Thaketas Man Pyay No. 3 Ward was found dead after an explosion at his house.

At least five explosions occurred in Yangons Thaketa Township on Thursday morning, including one at the home of the administrator of Man Pyay No. 3 Ward. The ward administrator was found dead.

Bomb blasts were also reported near the No. 1 Police Station on Myin Taw Thar Road and at the No. 2 Police Station at the corner of Ayeyarwun and Nawarat streets.

There were around five explosions between 8am and 9am. I heard that the ward administrator who lives near No. 3 Thaketa Market died, a resident of Man Pyay told The Irrawaddy.

The ward administrator was reportedly shot dead. But The Irrawaddy was unable to independently confirm that.

A large number of police and military personnel have deployed on Myin Taw Thar Road and Man Pyay No. 20 Street where the ward administrator lived.

The explosions in Thaketa are the latest in a series of bomb and arson attacks targeting basic education schools and ward administrator offices that have taken place across Myanmar since school enrollment week began on May 24.

The military regime is pushing to open basic education schools on June 1, but anti-coup protesters are calling for an education boycott as part of the nationwide civil disobedience movement.

On May 3, the military-appointed administrator of No.7 ward (west) in Thaketa Township was stabbed to death by three men.



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Burma Myanmar Junta Slaps Chinese Factory Arsonists With Heavy Prison Terms

Coup leader Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing visits a destroyed Chinese-backed factory in Yangon's Hlaing Tharyar Industrial Zone in April. / Commander-in-Chiefs Office

A total of 28 people have each been sentenced to 20 years in prison with hard labor after the military regime found them guilty of arson attacks on Chinese-backed factories in Yangons Hlaing Tharyar Industrial Zone.

The regime imposed martial law in Hlaing Tharyar Township following the factory fires, after Beijing demanded that the junta take immediate action against the perpetrators and move to protect Chinese citizens and interests.

Military-controlled newspapers claimed that two factories  Myanmar Rong Wei New Material Company Limited and Yuan Hong Garment Company limited  were set on fire in March by the 28 people.

Rong Wei New Material is a joint venture between a Chinese citizen and a Myanmar citizen, while Yuan Hong is jointly owned by two investors from Taiwan and Hong Kong, according to the government investment agency the Directorate of Investment and Company Administration.

Chinese government mouthpiece the Global Times claimed that 32 factories built with Chinese investment had been vandalized, looted and burned, causing around US$37 million in damage. The Chinese Embassy in Yangon said that two Chinese employees were injured in the attacks.

But as the regime launched a deadly crackdown on anti-coup protesters in Hlaing Tharyar, pro-democracy protesters across Myanmar condemned Beijings demands and denied the allegations, saying that the arson attacks were a plot by the military to justify harsher crackdowns.

Last month, coup leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing visited the damaged Chinese-backed factories in Hlaing Tharyar. He handed out sacks of rice to be distributed to workers and attempted to demonstrate that the factory zone has returned to normal, even though thousands of workers have fled the area since the juntas lethal crackdowns on protesters.

During an interview with Hong Kong-based Phoenix Television earlier this week, Snr- Gen Min Aung Hlaing said that he had urged the Yangon regional authority to exercise its responsibility for protecting Chinese-funded projects in the Yangon area.

Of the 28 people found guilty by the military court, 18 are still at large, according to military media.



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U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet, onscreen, speaks during a special session of the U.N. Human Rights Council at the European headquarters of the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, Thursday. AP-Yonhap



Israel's recent deadly air strikes on Gaza may constitute war crimes, the U.N. rights chief said Thursday, as countries discussed launching a broad, international investigation.



Addressing a special session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, Michelle Bachelet voiced deep concern about the "high level of civilian fatalities and injuries" from the attacks on Gaza.



"If found to be indiscriminate and disproportionate in their impact on civilians and civilian objects, such attacks may constitute war crimes," she warned.



She also said her office had "not seen evidence" that the buildings targeted in Gaza, including residential homes, medical facilities and media offices, were "hosting armed groups or being used for military purposes" as claimed by Israel.



Bachelet also stressed that rockets fired by Hamas were "indiscriminate and fail to distinguish between military and civilian objects," and were thereby "a clear violation of international humanitarian law."



The U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights made her statement at the start of a special one-day council session focused on the recent flare-up of violence.



Before a truce took hold last Friday, Israeli air strikes and artillery fire on Gaza killed 254 Palestinians, including 66 children, and wounded more than 1,900 people in 11 days of conflict, the health ministry in Gaza says.



Rocket and other fire from Gaza claimed 12 lives in Israel, including one child and an Arab-Israeli teenager, medics say. Some 357 people in Israel were wounded.



'Root causes'



At the rights council, countries were debating a proposal to set up a broad, international investigation into violations surrounding the latest violence, but also into "systematic" abuses in the Palestinian territories and inside Israel.



The proposal calls for an unprecedented level of scrutiny on abuses and their "root causes" in the decades-long Middle East conflict.



The draft resolution presented by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation calls for the council to "urgently establish an ongoing independent, international commission of inquiry... in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem and in Israel."



The investigators, the text said, should probe "all alleged violations and abuses" of international law linked to the tensions that sparked the latest violence, but also "underlying root causes of recurrent tensions and instability, including systematic discrimination and repression based on group identity."



The investigation should focus on establishing facts and gather evidence that could be used in legal proceedings, and should try to identify perpetrators to ensure they are held accountable, it said.



'Purposely raised tensions'



Meirav Eilon Shahar, Israel's ambassador to the U.N. in Geneva, slammed the session and the draft text, insisting they were yet another example of the council's bias against Israel.



"Hamas initiated this conflict," she said, insisting the "terrorist organization that glorifies death" had "purposely raised tensions in Jerusalem to justify its attack."



Pointing to the 4,400 rockets launched on Israeli cities, she urged the council not to "embolden and reward Hamas" for such behavior, and stressed that "Israel has the right to defend itself."



Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki hit back at that claim, telling the council "we refuse to equate between the colonizer and the colonized."



Accusing Israel of instituting "an apartheid system based on the forced displacement of our people," he insisted that "the right to self-defense and the right to resist occupation is a right we have as the Palestinian people."



Open-ended investigation



If the resolution passes, it would create the council's first ever open-ended commission of inquiry (COI)  the highest-level investigation that can be ordered by the council.



Other COIs, like the one on Syria, need their mandates renewed every year.



And while the council has previously ordered eight investigations into rights violations committed in the Palestinian territories, this would be the first one with a mandate to examine "root causes" in the drawn-out conflict, and also to probe systematic abuses committed within Israel.



It remains unclear if there will be enough support in the council to pass the resolution.



Twenty council members were among the 66 countries that backed holding the special session.



Thursday's session marks the 30th extraordinary meeting since the Human Rights Council's creation 15 years ago.



It will be the ninth focused on Israel, which has long complained it faces bias in the council. (AFP)


Burma Myanmar Military-Backed Party Official Assassinated

USDP Bilin Township chair U Myint Swe. / USDP Mon State / Facebook

A local official of the Myanmar military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) was shot dead in Mon State in southern Myanmar on Thursday morning.

Two unidentified motorcyclists opened fire on U Myint Swe and his wife while they were on their way to their farm in Arrlulay village, Bilin Township around 8:15am, according to the USDPs Mon State branch.

He was shot in the head and died on the spot and his wife was injured in the jaw, a local said. His wife was transported to a military hospital. The funeral will be held right away, the local added. The USDPs Mon State branch also confirmed U Myint Swes death.

Junta forces blocked the area after the attack and conducted searches of people and property.

U Myint Swe was the chairperson of the USDP in Bilin Township. He stood for an Upper House seat in Bilin Township in the 2015 and 2020 general elections, losing to the National League for Democracy (NLD) candidate on both occasions.

Former dictator Senior General Than Shwe founded the USDP in the early 1990s as a social organization. It was transformed into a political party in 2010 to win the rigged general election of the same year. The party leadership is still dominated by former generals.

The USDP was heavily defeated in the 2015 and 2020 general elections by the NLD. Refusing to accept the losses, the USDP and its allied losing parties said the elections were marred by voter fraud. The 2020 election results were annulled by the regime after its February coup.



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Burma Myanmar Motorbike Mechanic Dead Less Than 24 Hours After Arrest by Junta

Motorbike mechanic Ko Min Min sustained bruises on his back and scratches on his arms. / Supplied

A motorcycle mechanic in Sagaings Kale was arrested by junta forces on Monday.

The next day his family was told to come and collect his body.

Ko Min Min, 39, who ran a motorbike workshop in Myotha ward in Kale, had not taken part in any anti-regime protest or armed resistance movement, said family members.

After a bomb exploded at No. 6 Basic Education High School in Kale on Sunday, soldiers and police came to his motorbike workshop on Monday.

They said they would take him for interrogation for a while and release him later. But they didnt take him to the police station. [Instead they took him] to Kale Regional Operations Command, said a relative of Ko Min Min.

The father of the two was taken away about noon and was still able to telephone his wife about 8 p.m. that day. He said he was OK and being interrogated on suspicion of being connected to the bomb explosion at the school.

He said [junta forces] told him that they received reports that he threw the bombs at the school as school enrollment week began. I asked him if he was tortured, and he said he was not. He said they also gave him meal, but he dared not eat and did not eat it, said a relative.

The following day, his wife went to the regional operations command and left some clothes and food for him.

A soldier on sentry accepted it. His wife was not allowed to meet him. She left clothes, tea and some snacks. Then, she received a phone call around 10 a.m. and was told that her husband had died, said the relative.

She was told to collect her husbands body at the 100-bed military hospital by the regional operations command. The military hospital told that he died as a result of lung problems and had died suddenly while changing clothes.

The military gave a compensation of 500,000 kyats. The body had to be collected at the mortuary of the 100-bed military hospital, said the relative.

After they took the body back home, family members saw it was covered with bruises from the head along the shoulder, and his head and arms had also been scratched with a knife.

He died during 24 hours after detention. It is worth noting that he was the first to be tortured to death in Kale. Even the resistance fighters and those who were arrested for possession of arms did not end like that. They were imprisoned, but not fatally tortured, said a colleague of Ko Min Min.

Though he had not participated in anti-regime protests or the armed resistance movement, Ko Min Min was a supporter of the National League for Democracy. His relatives and friends believe that he was framed by a military collaborator who lives next to his motorbike workshop.

He was a reserved man. The household next to his motorbike workshop has long been known as a military collaborator in the town. That collaborator had sent an enveloped letter of warning to him, complaining that it was too noisy when Ko Min Mins house banged pots and pans [in defiance of the military regime]. That collaborator warned that he would file a complaint if they continued banging pots, said a friend of Ko Min Min.

After receiving the warning letter some two months ago, Ko Min Min and his family fled to another location for about 20 days. He reopened his motorbike workshop later due to financial hardship.

He has reopened his workshop for only a month. He was arrested around 12 p.m. on Monday, and had already died around 10 a.m. the following day, less than 24 hours. We believe he was tortured to death, said a colleague.

Ko Min Min is survived by a five-year-old son, a two-year-old daughter, and his 29-year-old widow.

He must have been tortured in interrogation after he phoned his family around 8 p.m. He must have been forced to confess he was responsible for the bomb explosion at the school. It appeared he was tortured more as he denied, said a relative.

88-Generation student leader and former political prisoner U Tun Kyi said he himself was subjected to seven months of interrogation after 1988 pro-democracy uprising. Detainees who were subjected to torture for lengths of time may suffer fractures but rarely lost their lives, he said.

The torture (now) is quite terrible, violent and brutal compared to the past. They are treating people as an enemy in interrogation. They are violating human rights in a most brutal and terrible way. They even beat the people to death, and this is worse than our experiences in 1988, he said.

Veteran pro-democracy activist Ko Soe Moe Hlaing, also known as Ko Mae Gyi, was arrested Saturday in Zaung Tu village in Bago Region and died in military custody two days later.

People were shocked to learn that the 53-year-old was the younger brother of the Myanmar regimes Home Affairs Ministry deputy minister and chief of police Lieutenant-General Than Hlaing.

In similar incidents, Naypyitaws Zabuthiri Township NLDs executive U Kyaw Kyaw, ward-level NLD chairman U Khin Maung Latt and manager U Zaw Myat Lin of NLD-funded vocational training school in Shwepyithar Township died in military custody in March.

According to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, a total of 827 civilians were killed, 5,421 people were detained and 1,861 people were forced into hiding between Feb. 1 and May 25.



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Burma Nearly 20,000 Displaced in Upper Myanmar Amid Junta Forces Raids

Junta troops arrived on vehicles in Myaung Township on Wednesday. / CJ

The number of internally displaced persons in Sagaing Region has reached about 20,000, after more than 1,500 residents from a village in Myaung Township fled their homes due to a raid by the juntas soldiers on Wednesday.

On Wednesday morning, following the murder of a police informant, about 50 of the juntas soldiers raided and scoured houses of Chaung Zing village, located on the bank of Ayeyarwaddy River in Sagaing Regions Myaung.

Later, a large number of civilian resistance fighters of the Myaung People Defense Force launched an attack on the juntas troops deploying at the school and monastery of the village.

During hours of prolonged firefight, there were four military casualties while a civilian resistance fighter was wounded in the arm, a member of People Defense Force said Thursday.

Junta soldiers used a heavy explosive while the civilian resistance fighters were armed with old-fashioned, homemade rifles and homemade gas guns.

Due to the shootout and deployment of the juntas soldiers, more than 1,500 villagers have fled their homes since Wednesday.

Currently, children and women have taken refuge in the homes of relatives in neighboring villages. Meanwhile, male villagers are hiding in the nearby forests, according to the residents.

A resident said that now the fleeing villagers are concerned about the safety of their livestock because their pigs and cows were left behind, tied to hitching posts.

We have already planned for the worst situations. So, we will fight them (military regime) until we win, a member of Myaung People Defense Force told The Irrawaddy.

Also, nearly 20,000 residents from about 50 villages in Kani and Mingin townships of Sagaing Region have been hiding in the nearby forests since last week due to the deployments and shootouts with the Kanis People Defense Forces.

Currently, homeless residents are facing hardships in the forests due to a lack of food and water, according to the residents.

Now, old people and children are suffering from cholera due to a lack of clean water in the forests, villagers told The Irrawaddy.

The juntas troops have been raiding and looting the villages in Kani since in April after the shootouts with the civilian resistance fighters of the township began on April 2.



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Burma Total, Chevron Suspend Some Payments to Myanmar Junta-Linked Energy Firm

Staff from Total are seen at an offshore oil and gas project in Myanmar. / Total

In response to repeated calls for them to cut ties with the military regime in Myanmar, energy giants Total of France and Chevron of the US on Wednesday announced they have suspended some payments to their joint venture with a state-owned company controlled by the coup leaders.

Since the coup on Feb. 1, international and local democracy advocates have repeatedly pressured oil and gas companies to suspend ties with the military regime, warning that it will use the proceeds of energy sales to commit more human rights violations in the country.

They have also urged that oil and gas payments be put in a trust or protected account and either held until such time as Myanmar has a legitimate and democratically elected government, or used for humanitarian purposes.

The oil-and-gas sector is Myanmars largest source of foreign exchange, earning at least US$1.5 billion annually.

Total said that in light of the unstable context in Myanmar, following a joint proposal by Total and Chevron at a shareholders meeting of Moattama Gas Transportation Company Limited (MGTC) on May 12, distribution of cash to the shareholders of the company has been suspended.

The decision is retroactively effective April 1. All cash distributions by MGTC to its shareholdersTotal (31.24%), Chevron (28.26%), PTTEP (25.5%) and Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE) (15%)are suspended, according to Total.

Total said it condemned the violence and human rights abuses occurring in Myanmar and reaffirmed that it will comply with any decision that may be taken by the relevant international and national authorities, including applicable sanctions issued by the EU or the US.

MGTCs gas transportation system carries gas produced at the Yadana field operated by Total Exploration & Production Myanmar to the Myanmar-Thailand border over a distance of 400 km.

Total said it will continue to act as a responsible operator of the Yadana field, maintaining the production of gas in accordance with applicable laws, so as not to disrupt the electricity supply that is vital to the local populations of Myanmar and Thailand.

In a statement, Chevron said, The humanitarian crisis in Myanmar requires a collective response to improve the welfare of the people of Myanmar.

Any actions should be carefully considered to ensure the people of Myanmar are not further disadvantaged by unintended and unpredictable consequences of well-intentioned decisions, Chevron said.

While cautiously welcoming Total and Chevrons decision to suspend dividend payments, rights group Justice for Myanmar (JFM) pointed out that income from MGTC accounts for only a small fraction of total payments from the Yadana project to the Myanmar military. MOGE owns just 15 percent of the pipeline company.

JFM said the latest decision leaves intact the vast majority of payments to the junta facilitated by Total, which include the states share of gas revenue, royalties and cost recovery from the Yadana gas field operation and corporate income tax from MGTC.

The rights group reiterated its calls for the immediate sanctioning of MOGE.

An investigation by Frances Le Monde newspaper revealed last month that Totals gas operation in Myanmar has been propping up the military junta by diverting funds from gas sales to offshore accounts instead of the government.

According to documents accessed by the French newspaper and released after the military coup, the Yadana gasfield, which supplies gas to local markets in Myanmar and Thailand, is diverting revenue to the MOGE, which is managed by army officers and retired officers.

Chevron also has a longstanding partnership with MOGE. The two companies are joint investors in the Yadana offshore gas project, located off the southwest coast of Myanmar, which accounts for 42 percent of all oil and gas production from Myanmars offshore projects.

A New York Times report revealed that Chevron has intensively lobbied the US State Department and key congressional offices against sanctions, warning that they could disrupt its joint ventures in Myanmar.



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Burma Two Civilians Killed As Fighting Intensifies in Myanmar's Kayah State

Two villagers from Ngu Palot in Demoso Township killed by junta forces on May 27. / CJ

Junta forces killed two civilians and fired on a church as

fighting with the Karenni Peoples Defense Force (KPDF) continued in Demoso Township, Kayah State, on Thursday.

Shootouts between civilian fighters and junta forces resumed when regime troops entered the Dawt Ngan Khar quarter of Demoso on Thursday afternoon, according to a KPDF member.

During the fighting, a civilian fighter was killed and another three were injured by artillery, according to residents.

A KPDF member said: We are fighting around 200 troops coming from Ngu Palot who entered the towns Dawt Ngan Khar quarter. They are firing artillery.

Most Demoso residents have left their homes and are sheltering in the hills. More than 50,000 residents have fled their homes in Loikaw and Demoso townships and more than 20,000 in Pekon Township and Moebyel town in Shan State. Civilians are sheltering in the hills and some are hiding with relatives since the fighting began on May 21. Some returned to their homes to gather food for families.

Two villagers  Alfred Ludu and Patrick Boe Reh  gathering food and water were allegedly shot dead by snipers near Ngu Palot village.

This morning two villagers riding motorbikes returned to their homes to find food. They were shot by a sniper and died on the spot, said a resident.

Their funerals were reportedly held on Thursday.

St Joseph Catholic Church in Demoso was damaged by junta artillery on Wednesday night.

The Sacred Heart Church in Kayanthayar Parish near the Kayah capital Loikaw was hit on Sunday, leaving four dead and eight wounded. Civilians were sheltering at the church amid fighting between the regimes troops and resistance groups. The building was seriously damaged.

On Monday, artillery hit a Buddhist monastery in Demoso where civilians were sheltering.

Cardinal Charles Bo, the archbishop of Yangon, on Tuesday called for places of worship not to be attacked. He called the situation a great humanitarian tragedy saying that many children and older people have been displaced and are starving and lack any medical aid.

This needs to stop. We plead with you all, related organizations, kindly do not escalate the war, the cardinal said.

Following the statement, the junta said insurgents used the Sacred Heart Church to attack the security forces, claiming empty bullet casings were found on the church grounds.



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Commentary For Myanmars Junta Forces, a New Sense of Vulnerability

The regimes troops at the Armed Forces Day parade in March 2021.

For Myanmars security forces, insecurity is in the air now.

Until recently, they were the town bullies. They rampaged in the streets and robbed people. They raided neighborhoods, challenging people, Come out, you who dare to die! while firing automatic rifles in pursuit of anti-regime protesters.

It seems those days are numbered, however.

Here is a bitter truth they have just begun to realize in recent days: They are no longer safe, wherever they are, even in big cities like Yangon.

What is the evidence for this?

Any skeptical soul would do well to take a tour around the city. Make sure to pay special attention when you pass by a police station or the regimes General Administration Department (GAD) office in your neighborhood.

The difference can be sensed in the absence of the menacing soldiers and assault rifle-wielding police who once manned the gates outside these buildings.

At the entrances now, in contrast, there are newly erected outposts fortified with piles of sandbags. Soldiers and police armed to the teeth crouch behind them with jittery expressions.

Down the street, dont be confused if the facade of your townships GAD office is now covered with a high fence with wire mesh, resembling a cage in a zoo. The only thing missing is the Dont tease the animals sign.

This newfound sense of vulnerability appeared almost overnight after deadly assaults on security forces last week by unknown attackers. In Yangons Sanchaung Township, at least two security forces were killed when explosives were thrown into the township GAD office. It happened in broad daylight. According to unconfirmed reports, a soldier on sentry duty there was shot dead at close range, too.

Next day, a member of the regimes security forces was shot dead on the spot by an unknown attacker at a high school that had been turned into a security base in Yangons Thingangyun Township. Residents said a volley of shots rang out during a Hollywood-style exchange of gunfire between soldiers and unknown assailants from a vehicle. Following the shootout, a blast occurred in the township.

Until the deadly attacks last week, Yangon was relatively safe for the boys in uniform. Despite a few blasts here and there, they operated largely unharmed. The throwing of bombs from the road into a government office in broad daylight was unheard of. As was the spraying of bullets at soldiers manning gates. But these things have become a reality, and no one knows when and where the next attack will occur. When it does, rest assured that the victims will be the regimes soldiers and police, as they have been the targets in previous attacks. Seeing the writing on the wall, it is unsurprising that they are now ducking behind sandbags to protect themselves from being hit by out-of-nowhere bullets or stationing themselves several feet behind cage-like fences to avoid any incoming explosives.

The beefed-up security measures are not limited to troop positions and government offices, but extend to regime-owned property as well.

The best example is the regimes newly opened MoeKaung Treasure Maternal and Child Hospital in the compound of the Military Documentation Office in Yangons Yankin Township.

Opened early this month by coup leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the more than three-week-old hospital scarcely resembles a medical facility. Two days after its opening, two bombs went off near the entrance. Now, the gate is sealed off. The roofs of the security booths at the entrances are piled high with sandbags, with soldiers bearing arms stationed behind them. Roadblocks zigzag the main road outside the hospital. In short, the area has more the air of a warzone than a place for treating the ill.

For the regime troops sheltering behind the sandbags, the situation they face is a depressing one. When they meet the eyes of passersby, they see hatred in some. For the majority of Myanmars people today, following the regimes slaughter of more than 800 civilians since the coup, soldiers and police are objects of disgust. For a soldier, few things can be more demoralizing than the knowledge that the people hold you in contempt. At the same time, the news outside Yangon is even less encouraging.

In the countrys southeastern Kayah State, a number of police stations have been burned to ashes by anti-regime civilian forces. Over the weekend, resistance fighters killed more than 40 regime troops in guerrilla attacks. The death toll was so significant for the junta it didnt mention a number when announcing the attack, saying only that some security forces were killed and some disappeared. In other parts of the country such as Chin State and Sagaing Region, local resistance groups have taken up arms against regime troops, with both sides sustaining casualties.

Unlike in Kayah, Chin and Sagaing, however, no one has claimed responsibility for the deadly attacks in Yangon. The effect is to make the security forces here feel more nervous and unsafe; they are forced to assume that everyone is a potential attacker.

Meanwhile, the sight of fully equipped soldiers and police hiding behind sandbags and cage-like wire fences is a cause of bemusement to locals. When pictures of soldiers crouching behind sandbags went viral on Facebook, people mocked them and called them cowards. Until March, it was young anti-regime protesters who used sandbags, mostly for fear of the security forces crackdowns on them. Now, it is the men in uniform who are tasting fear, and the barricades seem essential to them. Under a picture of one of the heavily fortified outposts, one user simply dropped the comment: Come out, you who dare to die!



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With the month of May almost over, 37.8 percent of Florida residents have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, slightly lower than the national average of 39.5 percent, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

That means residents have gotten both shots  Pfizer or Moderna  and the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

But Florida still lags behind many northern states when it comes to fully vaccinating its residents. Those include Vermont at 53.1 percent, Maine, (52.9), Connecticut (51.8), Massachusetts (50.8) and Rhode Island (50).

States with the lowest percent of residents fully vaccinated are southern states, including Mississippi (26.8 percent), Alabama (28.9), Arkansas (30.3), Louisiana (30.6) and Georgia (30.7).

The CDC also tracks vaccinations in states where residents have gotten just one of the shots. In that scenario, Florida is at 48 percent, slightly below the average of 49.5 percent.

The states with the highest percent of residents with one shot are Vermont, at 69.9 percent, Hawaii (65.3), Massachusetts (65), New Hampshire (64.5) and Maine (62.2).

This report first appeared on the website of the Florida Phoenix, a nonprofit news organization dedicated to coverage of state government and politics from Tallahassee.
One of the biggest and "most significant update" of Windows over the past decade is coming. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said as much and is excited about it

In his keynote speech for Microsoft Build 2021, Nadella shared only enough to get the people talking about the next generation Windows OS, its features, specs and possible release date.

Next Generation Windows OS

The Verge noted how Microsoft didn't talk about its big Windows plans at Build 2021. It looks like the company is waiting to unveil their next big thing on some other date. Instead, Nadella highlighted Microsoft's plethora of platforms and how it's a platform for developers.

In his keynote, Nadella focused on creation and collaboration. He noted how very soon, tech won't be an independent industry, rather, all industries will be integrating tech.

Nadella emphasized the importance of tech in our daily lives, most especially when the world locked down in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Developers are at the forefront of all of this as, traditionally, "non-tech" industries are hiring engineers and developers to keep up with the times.

He enumerated the various platforms offered by Microsoft and how its partners and developers have created and produced systems and programs that have improved and streamlined workflow and creation. He said Microsoft will be at the forefront to offer a platform for creators and developers.

He ended his keynote with what's in store for Windows. This significant update to windows will "unlock greater economic opportunity for developers and creators." He revealed he has been self-hosting the next generation of Windows and is "incredibly excited."

"Our promise to you is this: we will create more opportunity for every Windows developer today and welcome every creator who is looking for the most innovative, new, open platform to build and distribute and monetize applications. We look forward to sharing more very soon," Nadella said, per The Verge.

Nadella's talk seems to be giving substance to recent reports of Microsoft working on the new changes to be made on their Microsoft Store.

He promised a better economy for creators and developers in his keynote, will that make more credible the talks of offering developers more flexibility when it comes to distributing their software as Engadget says?

The company reportedly plans on allowing companies to use their own payments system to collect fees for in-app purchases, enabling developers to avoid sharing revenue. This could encourage more developers to use Microsoft as their platform of choice.

No More Windows 10X

This announcement from the CEO comes just a week after Microsoft confirmed the end of their development of Windows 10X, their OS built for dual-screen devices. What software developers are now doing instead is bringing the best bits of Windows 10X to the main Window 10 version, The Verge added.

Windows 10, which was first introduced back in 2015, will have a reinvigorated and modernized look. Some of the interface changes piloted with Windows 10X will be migrating to the main version so significant UI changes should be expected under the Sun Valley update later this year, Engadget explained.

The Microsoft Build 2021 conference will be running from May 25 to 27. It is completely online due to the global pandemic and can be streamed on YouTube. Tech giant Apple will also be hosting its Worldwide Developers Conference completely online on June 7.

Related Article: Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 Specs Get Early Positive Reviews; 'Smart Improvements,' Top-Notch Security Praised
Google's much-anticipated newest operating system called "Fuchsia" has been unveiled, albeit quite low-key on its initial consumer device, the Nest Hub, 9to5Google.com revealed.

G oogle 'Fuchsia' Release Date: Rollout Starts on Nest Hub

While "Fuchsia" has began rolling out on the Nest Hub, which was originally called the Google Home Hub, on Tuesday, the entire release process will need several months to complete. After the Preview Program, the OS will become more widely available.

The Nest Hub is a seven-inch smart display that would respond to Google Assistant commands. It was renamed as such in 2019 after its inception a year earlier as the Google Home Hub. 9to5Google said only the first-generation device of the Nest Hub will carry Fuchsia.

Nest Hub is set to replace its present Cast OS with Fuchsia and will have an almost identical user experience, so similar that users may not even notice the change.

Google 'Fucshia' Written Using Proprietary Kernel, Zircon, Not Linux

This open-source "Fuchsia" OS--which was written using the microkernel Zircon that Google developed in-house and not on Linux--has left users wondering how Google intends to use their new operating system. While "Fuchsia" has the capability to power PCs and smartphones, it is not seen to replace the current Android or Chrome OS standards in the platforms.

Google developed this operating system from scratch and brought it to a production-grade release in six years. Its primary app development language is called Flutter, a Google UI toolkit that runs on Android, iOS and the Web. As such, developing Flutter apps for current platforms would mean writing Fuchsia apps for the future.

"Fuchsia," as Google defined it, lets developers build "long-lasting products and experiences across a broad range of devices."

Read Also: Google's New Smart Home Speaker 'Prince' Is Coming Soon: Price, Specs, and All the Details You Need to Know

Integrating into Nest Hub was a breeze, considering that this smart display's interface has also been written in Flutter. Google developer can weed out traces of the Cast OS but use the same interface code for "Fuchsia," Ars Technica said in a report. As a result, it would appear nothing's changed on the Nest Hub, a perfect example of seamless integration.

Google 'Fuchsia' to Run Devices Beyond the Smart Home

This release would mark Google's first major step in bringing "Fuchsia" to wide consumer use. As Google tests "Fuchsia" on more devices, the tech giant will prove that the OS they built from scratch can be deployed in the smart home to replace Cast OS. Google, however, has not indicated any timeline or other plans in migrating current devices using the Cast OS to Fuchsia.

Being the OS positioned to manage smart home devices, "Fuchsia" is certainly set to be ported in more gadgets, per The Verge. It may start with "Made by Google" devices, as Google software engineer Hiroshi Lockheimer indicated in 2019, there is a "lot of room for multiple operating systems with different strengths and specializations" that power a host of devices in the growing world Internet of Things, not just PCs or smartphones, and "Fuchsia is one of those."

Related Article: Google Home Tips And Tricks: How To Get Started With The Smart Assistant
Jeff Bezos, the illustrious billionaire entrepreneur who took e-commerce to previously unperceived heights, is set to leave the $386-billion tech behemoth he founded from scratch and made him the world's richest.

Jeff Bezos Out, Andy Jessy In

Bezos announced during Amazon's annual stockholder's meeting that he is set to step down from his role as Chief Executive Officer on July 5. He also named Amazon Web Services (AWS) chief Andy Jessy as his replacement. Bezos described Jessy as an "outstanding leader," rising from the ranks to run Amazon's most profitable division.

Jessy was among the founding team members of Amazon's cloud computing services in 2009. He was appointed AWS chief executive in 2016 and made it an immense juggernaut in the IT industry. AWS had since earned $13.5 billion. According to Engadget, AWS earnings comprise 12 percent of Amazon's total revenue.

Bezos will not completely bow out of Amazon, as he will still take the position of executive chair.

Bezos' choice of July 5 as his exit date is due to "sentimental" reasons, per a CNN report. After all, it was the date he founded Amazon 27 years ago at his garage in Bellevue, Washington as a simple online marketplace for books. His initial success led him to expand to offering more items on his booming e-commerce platform, such as electronics, jewelry, video games, apparel, software, jewelry, toys, and more to become the flourishing, market leading retailer.

Jeff Bezos Net Worth 2021: $189.2 billion

Bezos holds the distinction of being the richest man in the world, according to Forbes, amassing a real-time net worth of $189.2 billion. He had since been a media mogul, who now has a controlling stake in The Washington Post while expanding Amazon to kickstart the Amazon Prime streaming service, and just recently acquiring the classic Hollywood studio MGM.

Bezos also owns the aerospace company Blue Origin, which builds rockets for commercial use.

Read Also: Jeff Bezos Could Become the World's First Trillionaire by 2026 Earning over $2,500 Per Second, Thanks to Coronavirus

Bezos' success in business is due to his inherent style as a transformational leader, constantly pushing changes from within the organization he manages and finding ways to make them innovative. He is known for his out-of-this world ideas in the board room, yet gets validated in the end.

Jeff Bezos to Focus on Initiatives Outside of Amazon

Per the CNN report, Bezos indicated since early this year that he was seeking to spend more time on his other ventures outside of Amazon, such as Blue Origin and his environmental initiative, Bezos Earth Fund.

As he steps down from Amazon, many stockholders showed concern about the future of the company, given the transition. Bezos was even asked the future of innovation in his now diversified corporate titan.

Bezos said that Amazon is in good hands under Jessy, since the Amazon cloud services chief "has the energy needed to keep alive in us what has made us special," a CNBC report stated.

Jeff Bezos: 'Amazon is About Taking Risks'

But he acknowledged that Jessy would face challenges in pushing Amazon's newest offerings, initiatives that Bezos described as having "no guarantee that it would work." Yet Bezos said such are "all risks" the company should take.

"The only way to get above-average returns is to take risks and many won't pay off," Bezos said. He added that the company had taken many risks and many have failed. But, Bezos said, per CNBC. "We'll continue to take big risks."

Related Article: Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos Kickoffs His Earth Fund with First Batch of Grantees' Announcement
Mainland civilian entities offer to donate vaccines to Taiwan: spokesperson

Xinhua) 14:03, May 27, 2021

BEIJING, May 26 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday said that two mainland entities had expressed their willingness to donate COVID-19 vaccines to Taiwan to help the island cope with a spike in local infections.

"We support such efforts and will provide active assistance in this regard," said Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, when responding to a media query on the progress of mainland vaccine assistance for the island.

The two entities are a Shanghai-based foundation for medicine and health development and a non-profit social organization in Jiangsu Province that promotes cross-Strait cultural exchange, according to the spokesperson.

She urged Taiwan authorities to remove obstacles to vaccine deliveries as soon as possible.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
In this May 17 file photo, U.S. President Joe Biden delivers remarks on the COVID-19 response and the vaccination program in the East Room of the White House in Washington. Biden on May 26 ordered U.S. intelligence agencies to report to him in the next three months on whether the virus first emerged in China from an animal source or from a laboratory accident. AFP-Yonhap



President Joe Biden on Wednesday ordered U.S. intelligence officials to ''redouble'' their efforts to investigate the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, including any possibility the trail might lead to a Chinese laboratory.



After months of minimizing that possibility as a fringe theory, the Biden administration is joining worldwide pressure for China to be more open about the outbreak, aiming to head off GOP complaints the president has not been tough enough as well as to use the opportunity to press China on alleged obstruction.



Biden asked U.S. intelligence agencies to report back within 90 days. He directed U.S. national laboratories to assist with the investigation and the intelligence community to prepare a list of specific queries for the Chinese government. He called on China to cooperate with international probes into the origins of the pandemic.



Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, have promoted the theory that the virus emerged from a laboratory accident rather than naturally through human contact with an infected animal in Wuhan, China.



Biden in a statement said the majority of the intelligence community had ''coalesced'' around those two scenarios but ''do not believe there is sufficient information to assess one to be more likely than the other.'' He revealed that two agencies lean toward the animal link and ''one leans more toward'' the lab theory, ''each with low or moderate confidence.''



''The United States will also keep working with like-minded partners around the world to press China to participate in a full, transparent, evidence-based international investigation and to provide access to all relevant data and evidence,'' said Biden.



His statement came after weeks of the administration endeavoring to avoid public discussion of the lab leak theory and privately suggesting it was farfetched.



In another sign of shifting attitudes, the Senate approved two Wuhan lab-related amendments without opposition, attaching them to a largely unrelated bill to increase U.S. investments in innovation.



One of the amendments, from Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., would block U.S. funding of Chinese ''gain of function'' research on enhancing the severity or transmissibility of a virus. Paul has been critical of Dr. Anthony Fauci, the government's top infectious-disease expert, and aggressively questioned him at a recent Senate hearing over the work in China. The other amendment was from GOP Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa and it would prevent any funding to the Wuhan Institute of Virology.



Both were approved without roll call votes as part of the broader bill that is still under debate in the Senate.



As for the origin of pandemic, Fauci, a White House coronavirus adviser, said Wednesday that he and most others in the scientific community ''believe that the most likely scenario is that this was a natural occurrence, but no one knows that 100 percent for sure.''



''And since there's a lot of concern, a lot of speculation and since no one absolutely knows that, I believe we do need the kind of investigation where there's open transparency and all the information that's available, to be made available, to scrutinize,'' Fauci said at a Senate hearing.



White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Tuesday that the White House supports a new World Health Organization investigation in China, but she added that an effective probe ''would require China finally stepping up and allowing access needed to determine the origins.''



Biden still held out the possibility that a firm conclusion may never be reached, given the Chinese government's refusal to fully cooperate with international investigations.



''The failure to get our inspectors on the ground in those early months will always hamper any investigation into the origin of COVID-19,'' he said.



Administration officials continue to harbor strong doubts about the lab leak theory. Rather, they view China's refusal to cooperate in the investigation  particularly on something of such magnitude  as emblematic of other irresponsible actions on the world stage.



Privately, administration officials say the end result, if ever known, won't change anything, but note China's stonewalling is now on display for the world to see.



The State Department, which ended one Trump-era probe into the Chinese lab theory this spring, said it was continuing to cooperate with other government agencies and pressed China to cooperate with the world.



''China's position that their part in this investigation is complete is disappointing and at odds with the rest of the international community that is working collaboratively across the board to bring an end to this pandemic and improve global health security,'' said spokesman Ned Price.



Research into the origins of the virus is critically important, said Arinjay Banerjee, a virologist at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization in Saskatchewan, Canada, because: ''If you don't know where it came from, how are you going to stop it from spreading it again?''



''The great probability is still that this virus came from a wildlife reservoir,'' he said, pointing to the fact that spillover events - when viruses jump from animals to humans - are common in nature, and that scientists already know of two similar beta coronaviruses that evolved in bats and caused epidemics when humans were infected, SARS1 and MERS. ''The evidence we so far have suggests that this virus came from wildlife,'' he said.



However, the case is not completely closed. ''There are probabilities, and there are possibilities,'' said Banerjee. ''Because nobody has identified a virus that's 100% identical to SARS-CoV-2 in any animal, there is still room for researchers to ask about other possibilities.''



Andy Slavitt, Biden's senior adviser for the coronavirus, said Tuesday that the world needs to ''get to the bottom ... whatever the answer may be.''



''We need a completely transparent process from China; we need the WHO to assist in that matter,'''' Slavitt said. ''We don't feel like we have that now.'' (AP)


It's time! With "Friends: The Reunion" premiering on Thursday, every fan should get their popcorns and tissues ready for an epic viewing.

The One Where They Get Back Together

So no one told us it was going to be this way. Fans of the show know that the six-cast members are still in contact after the show and rumors of a reunion have circulated more than once over the years.

The TV sitcom that premiered in 1994 has garnered fans young and old, been there since the beginning or just recently through streaming services. The fan base has been consistently strong, and anyone could tell that by the interactions they get on their Instagram page or the sheer amount of people who clap along after hearing the first line of their opening theme.

This will be the first time all six of the primary cast will be seen together in the same space, on screen, since the show's final episode in 2004.

Back in February of last year, the cast took to Instagram on their personal accounts to announce "it's happening" as they posted old promo photos from the show. It was initially scheduled to air the following month. However, filming dates had to be pushed back due to the lockdowns caused by the global pandemic.

In the trailer for the show, Jennifer Anniston, Lisa Kudrow, Courteney Cox, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer strolled back down memory lane as they stepped inside the set of Monica and Rachel's apartment. The reclining chairs look just as comfortable in Joey and Chandler's apartment, and they congregated back into the character's favorite cafe, Central Perk.

James Corden of the "Late Late Show" will be hosting the cast as they talk about their time on the show and life after as they sit on the iconic couch in front of the famous fountain scene on the opening credits of the show. They will also take time as just friends, as they make their way around the set, play games, table read, and just talk with each other again.

Read Also: Marvel Logo Evolution: MCU Subtly Drops Logo Changes in Various Shows--Including 'Eternals'

Could We Be Any More Emotional?

The trailer posted last week showed the cast getting emotional at various points throughout the special.

"I knew it was gonna be a seriously emotional experience," Perry said in Good Morning America.

"I don't think... any of us had any idea how emotional we would be when we walked onto the set," Cox added.

In the official trailer, Matt LeBlank asked: "Does Courtney still have her lines written on the table?" as he checked the dining table inside Monica and Rachel's apartment.

This reunion special is not a new episode of Friends, as "the cast will be appearing as themselves, not as their beloved character," HBO Max explained in a statement, per Harper's Bazaar.

Fans will also get to see familiar guests like Maggie Wheeler who played Janice, and Reese Witherspoon, who played Rachel's younger sister Jill.

Other guest stars include David Beckham, Justin Bieber, Cindy Crawford, Cara Delevingne, Lady Gaga, Elliott Gould, Kit Harington, Larry Hankin, Mindy Kalin, Thomas Lennon, Christina Pickles, Tom Selleck, James Michael Tyler, and Malala Yousafzai, shared Cnet.

The global Kpop sensation BTS will also be making a guest appearance in "Friends: The Reunion," but it would be very brief. They're said to just pop in for a minute to talk about why they're fans of the show.

Where to Watch 'Friends: The Reunion'

Fans can stream the reunion special on HBO Max starting Thursday, May 27.

Currently, a subscription to HBO Max is $15. You may unknowingly already have access to HBO Max through your cable service provider. Otherwise, you can upgrade your HBO subscription to watch the show. Hopefully you won't need to enlist the help of a transponster to figure it out.

Related Article: HBO Max is Surprisingly Awesome but Is it Really for Everyone?
New headlines are teasing a fourth stimulus check heading to your address. However, make no mistake: the President's Administration and Congress have not approved a fourth round of stimulus check payments. Fortunately, eligible Americans could still expect a different wave of relief payment.

The fourth stimulus check has been a hot topic for debate on both the government and the internet. Reports warn you against reading fourth stimulus check trackers and fake news that could be misleading. The fact is that three prominent proposals for the fourth stimulus check are being submitted.

A total of 21 Senators wrote a letter addressed to the White House for "recurring direct payments and automatic unemployment insurance extensions."

An online petition aiming for 3 million signatures proposing for "$2,000 per month recurring payment for the American people that should last for the duration of the crisis."

Ways and Means petitions that "A fourth stimulus check would surely help families pay their food, houses and current debt."

Note that as of time of writing, none of these proposals have been approved.

Possible $2000 Payment, Timeline, and More Details

Even without the fourth stimulus check, eligible American families are expected to receive a lot of money within these next few months, extending up to next year, if you know where to look. The payments should come through recovery rebate credit, tax exemption policies, double tax refunds and plus-up payments. Submit your eligibility requirements properly, and you could receive several benefits.

To receive the money, you should immediately file your 2020 tax returns and prepare for the 2021 tax filing. Online tools from the IRS should help make your filing easier and faster, so you could immediately notify the government to send out your money.

As for the timeline of the fourth stimulus check, our previous report noted that if a bill would be approved, it might take another two weeks to process the payments before IRS could send them out. However, since the IRS is still sending tax refunds this summer, don't expect the new payment to move forward--if there is any at all.

Read Also: Fourth Stimulus Check Tracker: Possible $2000 Payment, Timeline and More Details

Double Tax Refunds and Plus-Up

Many Americans received their stimulus check (first, second and third wave) money based on their 2019 tax return. That is approximately two years' worth of outdated information! If you recently lost your job, gained a new dependent, or other similar circumstances, then you are entitled to receive more money than you expected.

The government reported that over $1.3 billion unclaimed tax returns for 2017 alone. More money is expected to go out for the "Plus-up" payments from the stimulus checks. In a quick overview, this is how much money you should receive if you are an eligible American tax filer:

How to Get the Stimulus Money

As mentioned, you need to complete filing your Tax Returns so the IRS could check if you are eligible to receive the money listed above. You might be required to submit Forms 1040, 1040-SR, 1040ES, 1040V, amended returns 1040-X, and extensions 4868. Lastly, be sure to keep the Notice 1444-C you might have received from the previous stimulus check payments.



Related Article: Child Tax Credit Tracker: How to Get the $3600 Per Child in One Lump Sum Payment
On Friday, officials with the Walker County Hospital District board announced that they have finalized a $7.8 million purchase of Huntsville Memorial Hospital. Do you feel like this is a good use of tax dollars, and is this the right direction for the struggling health care facility?

You voted:
Officials start looking into what recreational cannabis retail could look like in downtown Ithaca, and what it will bring in tax revenue.
Police release rules for protesters, officers | Board of Ed. clears up vax misinformation | IC professor, author talks about new book | BVC catches the latest at Regal | Enjoy your summer in the Finger Lakes Read Digital Edition
Instagram and Facebook users have now the option to hide the like counts on their posts. While this may be beneficial for some, others have found it inconvenient.

Instagram has been testing hiding like counts on its platform for a while in a handful of countries, including Australia. Today, Instagram announces that users on its platform and on Facebook will now have the option to hide their public like counts so they can decide what works for them.

Instagram tested hiding like counts to observe if it will lessen pressure among users. The app received mixed feedback: for some people, it was beneficial not to see likes, and for others, it felt annoying as like counts are gauge on what is trending or what is popular.

To give people more control over their social media presence, Instagram announces new tools to allow people to filter offensive content from their direct messages (DMs) and gives them control on what they see and share on their Facebook newsfeed through Feed Filter Bar, Favourites Feed, and Choose Who Can Comment.

New options to hide public like counts

Instagram gives users the option to hide like counts on all posts in their feed. They have the option to hide like counts on their posts. This option allows focus on the photos and videos being sharedthe content itselfinstead of the likes it gets.

Users can hide like counts on others posts by vising the Posts section in settings. This control applies to all posts in their feed.

They can also choose to hide like counts before sharing a post. They can turn this setting on or off, even after it goes live. According to Instagram, people want more flexibility, and thought of giving people more options. In the next few weeks, users will see both of these controls come to Facebook.

Mia Garlick, Facebook ANZ, head of policy, says: After testing in a handful of countries, including Australia, today we are launching new options to hide like counts across our global community.

She notes: This is a step forward in giving people more control over their experience on Instagram and Facebook. We learned that hiding like counts is beneficial for some, but others enjoy seeing like counts to understand whats popular or trending. It is important that people feel good about the time they spend on our apps, and these new controls allow them to create a more personalised and positive experience.

Collaborating with experts and creators

Social media experience differs from one user to another. Instagram has been working closely with third-party experts to better understand how to empower people, build self-awareness, and shape a more positive experience.

As part of these efforts, Instagram collaborated with The Jed Foundation and content creators Bunny Michael (@bunnymichael) and Schuyler Bailar (@pinkmantaray) on a new Instagram guide, which offers advice on how to manage pressure online.

Instagram is funding more external research about user experiences and how it can improve policies and products to support the community. Instagram is requesting research proposals from global academics and non-profits. Interested applicants can submit here.
Qlik says the growth of its academic program indicates that students are becoming more aware on the significance of data literacy and how digital skills are now a must, regardless of their program or specialisation.

Qlik reveals the growth of its academic program in Australia. According to the company, since 2019, its university partnerships locally have grown by 73% and an additional 1,500 students have signed up for the program to help them prepare for the modern workforce. These numbers put Australia in the top four countries for the Qlik academic program, behind only India, the US and the UK.

The growth shows Australian tertiary students are increasingly aware of the importance of data literacy and the need for digital skills for the future, regardless of their major or area of specialisation. It also affirms Qliks commitment to arm students with data literacy skills required to succeed in the workplace.

This comes at a time when just 21% of the global workforce are confident in their data literacy skills, according to research by Accenture and Qlik. Studies show that data-literate organisations have benefitted from increased corporate performance, resulting in a higher total enterprise value of 3-5%.

Qliks program partners include Deakin University, Macquarie University, Swinburne University, University of Tasmania, and University of Technology Sydney, among others. It provides students, educators and researchers with free Qlik software and resources to prepare students for the data-driven workplace.

The program also aims to provide students with real-life experience in using data analytics tools, which is achieved through incorporating data analytics into coursework and the delivery of workshops at partnering universities.

One recent workshop saw Qlik experts conduct a session on data analytics for students completing their Bachelor of Business Analytics degree at Deakin University. The session began with an overview of the various platforms and tools available for professionals in the workplace.

Qlik experts taught students how to easily kickstart these platforms, including loading data as well as creating dashboards and apps. Ultimately, it provided students with practical hands-on experience on how professionals today are using and engaging with data in their various roles.

Paul Leahy, Qlik ANZ country manager, notes gone are the days when only data specialists or data analysts were required to be data literate. He says in the modern workforce, its important all employees are data literate, as data-informed decisions are being made across departments and at every level.

As a leader in data analytics and data integrationand the founder of the Data Literacy Projectit is essential we help cultivate a data literate nation, and world, by educating tomorrows leaders on data analytics. As part of this program, we empower students to not only learn data skills from a theoretical standpoint, but a practical one too, he explains.

Dominic Canestrari-Soh, lecturer at Macquarie University says that by allowing students to work with technology, which is being increasingly deployed in all types of organisations internationally, they develop skills that are in demand while getting a real understanding of what theyll need to succeed.

Having direct contact with industry experts through various Qlik workshops has been an invaluable experience for students. It takes their learning and engagement to a significantly higher level than would otherwise be achieved via more traditional classroom delivery approaches, he says.

Paola Framit, accountant and former accounting student at Macquarie University, says the Qlik academic program has helped her develop practical data analytics skills, which are now essential in the workforce.

She adds: More and more organisations require employees to report, reflect, and make timely decisions based on data. Tools like Qlik are powerful in enabling workers to analyse and draw conclusions from many different data sources. No matter your career path, data-backed critical thinking is crucial, not just to your education, but also adds immense value to the company you will go on to work for.

Dr Van-Hau Trieu, lecturer, faculty of business and law at Deakin University, concludes: By enabling students to work with technology thats being deployed in large organisations across the globe, they get a real understanding of the skills required to succeed.

The academic programs success comes after as Qlik announced its first-ever Professor Ambassador Class of 2021. The ambassador program aims to recognise and celebrate professors who have made significant progress in developing students data literacy skills and in turn, prepare them for a successful career.

For more information on Qlik's academic program, watch the video here:
Company News: Adobe today announced it completed its assessment with the Australian Information Security Registered Assessors Program (IRAP) for Adobe Sign , the market-leading e-signature solution in Adobe Document Cloud . With cyber and information security being a top national priority, IRAP was established by the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) initiative with an aim to provide high-quality information and communications technology (ICT) security assessment services to government and industries.

The IRAP assessment demonstrates Adobes commitment to creating better and safer citizen experiences when working with digital governments around the world.

Globally, Adobe is working with government and regulatory bodies to help accelerate digital government experiences by keeping security top of mind. In the US, Adobe is FedRAMP-authorised and recently announced it partnered with government agencies across all 50 states to power digital modernisation through Adobe Document Cloud. Adobe also supports the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and in Singapore Adobe recently announced support for Sign with Singpass, a government National Digital Identity project that will enable digital document signing on a number of platforms, including Adobe.

Adobe Sign joins IRAP certified Adobe Experience Manager, as a managed service, as the second Adobe platform with assessment from IRAP, allowing customers to interact smoothly and with enhanced security with government agencies.

As a platform, our aim is to meet the highest level of security for our customers both locally and globally, said Chandra Sinnathamby, Head of Adobe Document Cloud, Asia Pacific. Weve seen an exponential growth of the use of digital documents across the region, with many people using e-sign for the first time last year. Our assessment highlights our dedication to providing a safe platform to further enhance citizen experiences.

As a Platinum Partner, Data#3 has become Adobes largest Australian Solution Partner by helping customers to transform the way they do business leveraging Adobes innovative solutions. Our customers listed cybersecurity as their number one technology priority in a recent survey, so its fantastic to see Adobe completing the IRAP assessment for its Adobe Sign platform. We look forward to continuing to work with Adobe to provide market-leading solutions to our customers, said George Rodgers, National Vendor Manager at Data#3.

The imperative for equitable, secure and personalised digital citizen experiences was also revealed in the recent Adobe and Deloitte Blueprint for Enhanced Citizen Experiences report - a survey of 1,000 Australians that examines Australians experiences, values, preferences and expectations from digital government services.

The research revealed that data security and privacy is a top priority, with 20 per cent of people stating that the safe and ethical storage of their data is one of the most important factors when choosing where to access public information.



Data security remains top of mind for Adobe and Australians, and we are committed to meeting their security needs. The IRAP Assessment of our Adobe Sign platform means we can help governments and businesses deliver better digital experiences with trust and security built at the core, said Suzanne Steele, Vice President at Adobe Australia and New Zealand.

For more information on the IRAP program, please visit the Australian Cyber Security Centre. For more information on Adobes global compliance certifications, standards and regulations, please visit the Adobe Trust Centre.

About Adobe Document Cloud

At the heart of Adobe Document Cloud is Acrobat DC, the worlds best PDF solution; Adobe Sign, the leading solution that makes it easy to automate every task in a document workflow; and companion mobile apps like Adobe Scan and Adobe Acrobat Reader DC that help people get work done from anywhere. Acrobat, together with Acrobat Reader, is one of the most widely distributed pieces of software, used on over a billion desktops and mobile devices, and more than six billion digital and electronic signature transactions are processed through Document Cloud each year. With data centres in the U.S., UK, Germany, Japan and Australia, organisations around the world rely on Document Cloud and Adobe Sign for fast, secure and mobile e-signatures from anywhere.



About Adobe

Adobe is changing the world through digital experiences. For more information, visit www.adobe.com/au.
Franklin County Domestic Relations

Has an opening for:

Intake Clerk

Full Time

Starting rate: $12.88

Requirements include: High school diploma or equivalency, plus some clerical, bookkeeping and computer training required. 2 years clerical working experience, including general office skills, computer and record keeping and file maintenance.

Applications may be obtained at: FRANKLIN COUNTY HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT, 272 North Second Street, Chambersburg, PA 17201, or online at www.franklincountypa.gov. Applications must be returned to the Human Resources Department by 4:30 p.m. on 06/07/2021. EOE

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Apple bucked the trend in global smartwatch shipments in the first quarter of 2021, increasing its shipments by 50% year-on-year, compared to a growth rate of 35% for the overall market, the technology analyst firm Counterpoint Research says.

Counterpoint's Global Smartwatch Model Tracker showed that Apple's newest Series 6 models were responsible for this performance, with the company seeing its market share climb by three points as a result.

Samsung's shipments increased by 27% year-on-year due to the popularity of the Galaxy Watch 3 and the Galaxy Watch Active series. However, this growth was below the overall market level and meant a small dip in its market share.

The other well-known brand to lose market share was Huawei, compared to a strong first quarter in 2020.

Counterpoint senior analyst Sujeong Lim commented: "Apple was able to further solidify its leadership position in the market by widening the portfolio from Watch SE to Series 6 at the right time. This may drive Samsung to launch a mid-price-tier model to boost growth.

Huawei continued to face headwinds because of the declining smartwatch sales and how well Huawei watches are optimised for its smartphones. [It] will be interesting to see when Huawei launches its first watch based on Harmony OS, as it hinted at the Huawei Analyst Summit last month. This should kickstart a new ecosystem for developers to build experiences for the wrist.

"But it will warrant a Harmony OS phone as well for the complete experience. Honor, spun off from Huawei, should open up new opportunities for players such as Google and Qualcomm.

Looking at platforms, Counterpoint said Apple's WatchOS had taken over more than a third of the market. Google's Wear OS had not even come close, having at most 4% of the overall market, because most of the major brands had their own proprietary operating systems like Fitbit OS, Tizen and Garmin OS.

However, Google is expected to gain more traction following its partnership with Samsung announced at last week's Google I/O. Under this deal, Tizen OS will be integrated with Google Wear OS and go after the Android user base of 3.5 billion.

Lim said: Hopefully, Googles new Wear platform will be shipping in the next generation of the Galaxy Watch series in late fall. It will be good for the companies involved.

"The focus would be to not only improve performance, such as battery life, but also improve on the AI, newer apps and services, and integration with Android smartphones.

"Samsung will also be able to better target the broader Android smartphone user base. With the completion of the acquisition of Fitbit, Google should be able to enhance the Wear platform with fitness capabilities and services integration, moving forward.

Regarding the Google-Samsung announcement, Counterpoint's vice-president of Research, Neil Shah, said, This is a great move by Google to accelerate its ambitions for the wearables space.

"It can build a robust portfolio of Wear devices integrating the best of all the three worlds  Tizen OS, Wear OS and Fitbit OS. The consolidation brings more power to Googles Wear platform and will attract more developers to build newer experiences for the wrist.

he said wearable devices and services would become important for companies such as Apple, Google, Facebook and Amazon as they expanded their reach in healthcare, pharmaceutical and insurance verticals directly or indirectly.

"This can include selling services such as Apple Fitness+, predictively cross-selling medicines and healthcare solutions, or attracting marketers to their ad platforms based on the health profiles built with the enormous amount of data generated via the number of sensors on these wearable devices," Shah added.

"Further, addition of advanced voice AI and ML capabilities on these devices will make wrist as one of the key segments technology companies will go after this decade before adding eyes/brain-based advanced wearable devices to the mix.
Communication and collaboration specialist Dialpad has made three appointments to its Australian team.

"I am delighted to welcome Niall [Madden], Roger [Rivera] and Cheyne [Egelton] to the Dialpad team," said Dialpad Australia country manager Gerard D'Onofrio.

"Together, Niall and Roger have the perfect combination of cloud and telephony experience to uplevel the Dialpad channel program like never before. Given the massive potential of the SMB market, having Cheyne on board to focus on those businesses exclusively is a great opportunity and I'm excited to see what we will accomplish."

Roger Rivera is now Dialpad's Sydney-based regional channel manager.

He joins the company from Arrow ECS, where he most recently worked in business development. He previously worked for Avnet.

Rivera holds a business and commerce degree from the University of Western Sydney, as well as multiple industry certifications.

Niall Madden, Dialpad's new Melbourne-based regional channel manager, joins the company from Vodafone where he most recently worked as ICT national partner manager,

He previously worked for Diversified Communications Australia, Vodafone Ireland, and TGM Publishing.

Cheyne Egelton (pictured, top) joins the company as business development representative and will focus on small businesses and mid-market companies.

He previously worked for HCF Australia and Mood Media, and owned and operated event management business That Guy Presents.
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Government Reporter



The Evansville Courier & Press, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK, seeks a reporter to cover city and county government. The reporter will be responsible for coverage that holds public officials accountable and helps readers make informed decisions about their community, from the spending of their tax dollars to the safety of their neighborhood. The watchdog reporter must consistently gain/build trust with sources and demonstrate a keen eye for important details found in local government agendas, budgets and other public records. The reporter instinctively seeks documentation and data yet understands the best stories are about people. The reporter also must recognize compelling, socially shareable stories and be quick to jump on them.

This beat requires a reporter who can juggle multiple assignments and work on breaking news as well as short- and long-term enterprise. You must understand analytics and how to use that information to your advantage.

Here are some other requirements:

Minimum one year of professional experience in a newsroom

Understanding of city/county government

Familiarity with digital storytelling tools and techniques

Outstanding core journalism skills, including writing, spelling, grammar and AP style

Must thrive in a competitive news market while possessing a collaborative spirit

Deep understanding of journalism ethics

Experience with social media, online metrics, third party tools and content management systems





Application Instructions:

When applying, please include a single document with as much of the following as possible: a brief cover letter explaining your interest and fit for the position, your updated resume, and portfolio/clips/links to a few samples of your work. Its important that these items be assembled into a single document, preferably in PDF format. The application will only allow one document upload. Completing these steps will ensure that you receive the highest consideration.

We offer a competitive base salary and career growth opportunities. We also offer you a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, Paid Time Off, Company Paid Holidays, employee discount programs and domestic partner benefits.

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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.
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Long-term leaseholders in Johannesburg have been requested to update the General Valuation Roll by providing accurate property information to the municipality.











The requested information will assist the Property Branch to understand how many residential or business properties have long term leases within its cadastral.

The Property Branch has issued the call in line with Section 42 of the Municipal Property Rates Act (MPRA), which aims to reinforce and build relationships with the Citys property clientele.The requested information will assist the Property Branch to understand how many residential or business properties have long term leases within its cadastral.

The General Valuation Roll assigns a value to all properties in a municipality, in a bid to generate rates on an equitable basis.

The municipality should ensure that persons liable for payment receive regular and accurate accounts that indicate the basis for calculating the amounts due, says Cllr Thapelo Ahmad, the MMC for Development Planning.

Cllr Ahmad adds that the collection of property information will ensure long-term leaseholders pay rates according to the market value of their properties.

This will enable the City to generate revenue for services that benefit the community as a whole as opposed to individual households, he explains.

As required in section 44 of the MPRA, the City commits that all information provided and received will be treated as confidential.

The MMC says no leaseholder will be treated unfairly during this process.

Objections will be considered by the Municipal Assessor and a Valuation

Appeal Board, should a property owner wish to appeal, he adds.

Property owners in a registered long-term lease are expected to provide the City with a copy of the contract against the Freehold property and a copy of any Right in Land registered against the Freehold property owned or vested in the City.

For submissions, residents may telephone 011 407 6405 or email valuationenqueries@Joburg.org.za.





Residents can also visit the Joburg Website on www.Joburg.org.za. Drop-offs will be considered on the 1st floor, East Wing of 66 Jorissen Street, in Braamfontein, says Amad.











Written by Gontse Gee Hlophe



27/05/2021


A group calling for the removal of a statue of "Pitchfork" Ben Tillman, the governor and U.S. senator who led violent racist mobs to stop Blacks from voting, demonstrates Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2021, in Columbia, S.C., at the opening day of the Legislature.
Christine Flowers is an attorney and a columnist for the Delaware County Daily Times, and can be reached at cflowers1961@gmail.com.
Jonesboro, AR (72401)

Today

Some sun this morning with increasing clouds this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High near 95F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 73F. Winds light and variable.
Della A. (Kinkade) McGuire, 85, passed away at 12:15 a.m. on Thursday, June 10th, 2021 at the Presbyterian Manor in Parsons, KS, where she had lived for almost three years. On July 28, 1953, Della married Max E. McGuire. He preceded her in death on January 21, 1999. Della is survived by her 
In a Zoom meeting Wednesday afternoon, Berkeley- Morgan Health Department director Bill Kearns said caution is still necessary as citizens slowly transition back into normalcy with the recent announcement of mask mandates being rescinded and other restrictions being eliminated.
With the holiday weekend approaching, Berkeley County Sheriff Nathan Harmon not only warned against drunk driving and distracted driving but urged citizens to be careful and mindful of their own bodies' health by staying hydrated throughout the weekend.
BANK OF BOZEMAN IN BOZEMAN, MT.

Join Our Marketing Team!

Be a part of a fast paced, fun, and challenging environment working for Bozemans local bank. We are currently accepting applications for a full time Marketing Coordinator in our headquarters at 875 Harmon Stream Blvd in Bozeman. Duties include creating all marketing materials, managing social media, coordinating all internal and external marketing efforts, planning and attending functions on the bank's behalf, building and maintaining

relationships with all department heads, and ensuring clients are provided superior service in line with the banks mission.

Bank of Bozeman offers an attractive compensation package including health insurance, PTO, 401K and

a comfortable work environment. To be considered for this position, please submit your resume to hello@bankofbozeman.com

Bank of Bozeman provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Bank of Bozeman complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

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West Virginia Treasurer Riley Moore led a coalition of treasurers against White House plans for what they said was to pressure banks to drop investments in coal, oil and natural gas companies.
Living Reporter and Theatre Critic

Tim covers leisure and arts, and he is also a theater critic. He interned for the JI in 2015, and was hired in 2016. Tim graduated from UConn, Central College of McPherson, Kansas, and American Musical & Dramatic Academy. His favorite movie is "Jaws."
MEDICAL SECRETARY (Independent Contractor)

Duties and Responsibilities:

1.) Schedules, coordinates, prepares agenda, takes minutes, insurance verification/pre-authorization, provides follow up on all unresolved insurance, patient issues. Scans documents and directs billing issues and/or patient inquiries to billing department.

2.) Keeps current and concise documentation of patient vital records, phone contacts with patient. Backs up records daily. Filing charts, patient records appropriately.

3.) Coordinates receipt of credentialing and privileging applications. Performs review and analysis, identification and follow up of "red flag" items; prepares files for review and recommendation by the doctor and/or Administrator.

4.) Interprets federal, state, local, and government/insurance agency regulations and guidelines, policies, and procedures; advises provider/administrator on compliance issues as appropriate.

5.) Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

6.) This is an independent contractor position. No taxes will be taken out of your wages. It is the independent contractor's responsibility to file a tax return yearly, to report income earned and pay taxes from wages to the state of Michigan and Federal Government of the United States of America

Minimum Job Requirements:

1.) (Preferred but not required) Experience working in a medical office or professional office.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required

1.) General office equipment skills. Information research skills.

2.) Basic knowledge of office procedures, computer skills, organization, a pleasant telephone voice, as well as knowledge of telephone courtesy.

3.) Common sense. Patience. Courteous. Timely. Responsible. Excellent work ethic. Trust-worthy. Brings a positive attitude to work.

4.) Ability to use independent judgment and to manage/impart confidential information. Knowledge of HIPPA Privacy Policy.

5.) Database management skills including query and report generation.

6.) Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing with all levels of the organization.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

1.) Work is normally performed in an office located at the visiting provider's home to keep overhead low, since patients are treated at their place of residence.

2.) In some cases, the provider may request you to run an errand outside of the office.

To apply Call (586) 219-3330

or Fax your resume (586) 412-9645

Or email our resume by clicking APPLY NOW!

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In a statement to the Bolsa Mexicana de Valores (BMV), it said a group of shareholders were planning to pay as much as 20% more than recent prices for the remaining 25% of its outstanding shares owned by public investors.

Grupo Lala said this offering will be subject to obtaining the appropriate corporate, regulatory, and third-party authorisations that apply, including the approval of the Comision Nacional Bancaria y de Valores (CNBV).

If the necessary number of shares are acquired, the buyers intend to request cancellation of the shares on the Registro Nacional de Valores (RNV) and a delisting from the BMV.

In 2013, when Lala listed, its shares were MXN29.25. On Friday, when the shareholders plan was announced, the companys share price stood at MXN14.62.

The company raised around US$940m when it went public. Since then it has had three CEOs and in December Lala announced it was exiting Costa Rica to focus on core markets.



Lala operates 29 production plants and 173 distribution centres in Mexico, Brazil, the US and Central America. It has more than 40,000 employees. Among the milk, yogurt and butter producers brands are Lala, Nutri and Vigor.
Melbourne, Australia -Yang Hengjun, a Chinese and Australian citizen, is expected to stand trial in China on Thursday, accused of espionage and accused of acting as a spy for the Australian government.

In a letter written in March and released on the eve of the trial, Yang was stoic.

He wrote in a letter to the Australian media: Nothing is liberated than to realize what I worry about the most. I have no fear now. I will never compromise.

The values ??and beliefs we share with our readers are greater than my own.

The 56-year-old writer, blogger and pro-democracy activist is He was arrested when he arrived at Guangzhou Airport in January 2019 With his wife, if convicted of endangering national security and causing particularly serious harm to the country and the people, he will be sentenced to death. The minimum sentence is three years.

The Australian government has long denied allegations of acting as an Australian spy, and Prime Minister Scott Morrison described this statement in 2019 as absolutely untrue. Canberra calls Yangs detention unacceptable.

According to information from Amnesty International, Yang may have faced as many as 300 interrogations so far in prison.

Feng Chongyi, a friend and colleague, said that the purpose of these interrogations was to confess a confession and to bring a lawsuit against him.

Mr. Feng is a resident of Sydney, Australia and self-styled as a Chinese liberal. He was detained by the Chinese government for a week in 2017 after receiving an academic visit.

Feng told Al Jazeera: My detention is similar to Yangs detention-trying to establish a spy case. But I am lucky that I got rid of Yangs fate.

Yang Hengjun is expected to be prosecuted for espionage in Beijing No. 2 Intermediate Peoples Court [Carlos Garcia Rawlins/Reuters]

Feng said that the goals of other liberals such as him and Yang Zhiyuan are to promote the rule of law, human rights and democratization.

Of course, in doing so, we will criticize the current one-party dictatorship and analyze Chinese society, especially the relationship between the country and society.

National security officials to activists, novelists

Since 2005, Feng called himself Yang a friend and colleague and called him an ideal and ambitious person.

Feng confirmed that Yang Zhiyuan had worked for Chinas Ministry of National Security (MSS) for 14 years, which he said was provincial level.

But according to Feng, Yang was frustrated with his work on MSS and started writing spy novels to get rid of a profession he no longer believed in. [in] Or have any enthusiasm.

These novels were written based on Yangs ministry experience. Although they were not published in the form of books in China, they were published on the Internet under a pseudonym.

Yang and Feng first contacted online. The former moved to Australia in 2000 and started studying at Mr. Fengs University of Technology Sydney 5 years later.

Feng said that Yang will specifically study the possible impact of the Internet on the rule of the Chinese Communist Party. Therefore, he turned himself into a liberal.

After Yang Gang graduated, the two collaborated on many joint publications, editing books, and conferences on Chinese liberalism and democracy.

Yang (right) saw it during a discussion in Vancouver in 2015. Feng sat next to him. The other guest was Xin Lijian, a businessman and educator from the Liberal Party. He had helped Yang before being sentenced to more than two years in prison. [Courtesy of Feng Chongyi]

Feng said that Yangs father (teacher and teacher) was prosecuted by the regime. [and] There has never been a good relationship or opinion on the dictatorship of the Communist Party. 

Therefore, he believes that it is this kind of influence, coupled with Fengs instruction, that has turned Yang from a provincial government agent into an outspoken democracy activist.

Yangs status as an Australian citizen has turned his detention and upcoming trial into an issue of international diplomacy.

Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne said in a recent media statement: Despite repeated requests from Australian officials, the Chinese authorities have not provided any explanation or evidence for the allegations faced by Dr. Yang.

Since his detention, Dr. Yang has been unable to meet with his family and has delayed contact with his legal representative.

The statement also raised concerns that the trial will be a secret activity without the presence of Australian officials.

When Canadians shut out diplomats Michael Kovrig with Michael SpavorThey were detained one month before Yang in March and allowed only limited consular contact. They were therefore charged with espionage. Both are awaiting verdict. Chinese courts convicted 99% of the defendants.

Payne said: We have clearly conveyed to the Chinese authorities our concerns about Dr. Yangs treatment and the lack of procedural fairness in how to handle his case.

As a basic judicial standard, the opportunity for observers to be tried should be the minimum requirement to comply with international transparency standards.

Australian Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said that Yangs trial will be conducted in accordance with Chinese law.

When asked about the case, Zhao told Al Jazeera: The Chinese judiciary handles the case in accordance with the law and fully protects the legitimate rights and interests of the relevant personnel. As for the specific situation you mentioned, I dont have any information to provide at this time. Here you are.

Frayed diplomatic relations

Australia has a close trade relationship with China, but it has become frayed by Australias request for an on-site investigation of the origin of COVID-19 in Wuhan. The countrys first case appeared at the end of 2019.

Human rights violations against the Uyghur people have also attracted increasing attention, including the detention of Uyghur family members who are Australian citizens.

In August last year, Cheng Lei, an Australian citizen and TV anchor who worked for the national television station CGTN, disappeared.She also faces charges of espionage [File: Australia Global Alumni  Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade via Reuters]

China recently accused Uyghur Australians of terrorism crimes. Last month, Chinese Ambassador to Canberra Cheng Jingye described allegations of human rights violations against Uyghurs as fake news at a press conference.

Yang is not the only Australian detained in China. Cheng LeiIn August last year, the well-known commercial anchor of the state-owned television station CGTN disappeared. The following month, she was accused of endangering national security.

The detention has attracted the attention of global human rights organizations.

Joshua Rosenzweig, head of Amnesty Internationals China team, said this week: The allegations against Yang appear to be politically motivated to prosecute articles he wrote critical of the Chinese government. This is against the Chinese government. Cruel attacks on his right to freedom of speech.

Rosenzweig added: The case of Yang Zhiyuan further proves that isolated detentions, forced interrogations, secret hearings, and blatant denial of fair trial guarantees against vague allegations are Chinese authorities routines against government critics and human rights activists. Part of the show.

Unless China can provide concrete, credible and acceptable evidence that Yang committed an internationally recognized crime, it must be released immediately and all charges dropped.

However, his colleagues and friends had little hope. Feng believes that the trial will not end, allowing the authorities to detain him indefinitely.

He told Al Jazeera: The current environment and the partys determination to punish Yang means that they will impose severe penalties on him.

This is a serious violation of human rights. I must also call on the international community and the Australian government to save Yang and also defend the core values ??of human rights.

Yang is a very close friend of mine. I have an obligation to rescue him and bring him back to Australia. 
US President Joe Biden called for a ceasefire and an end to mass human rights violations in the war-torn Tigri region of Ethiopia Visa restrictions Ethiopian and Eritrean officials are accused of exacerbating the ongoing conflict.

in a statement Biden said Wednesday that he is deeply concerned about the escalation of violence in Tigray and the intensification of regional and ethnic division in several parts of the country.

Tigray has experienced large-scale human rights violations, including extensive Sexual violence, This is unacceptable and must end. He says.

Biden also called on Eritrean and Amharic forces to withdraw from Tigri and asked the authorities to grant immediate and unhindered humanitarian access to the area to prevent Widespread famine.

The militants in the Tigri area should declare and insist on a ceasefire, and the Eritrean and Amhara forces should withdraw.

Since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed sent troops to arrest and disarm the leader of the regional ruling party, the Tigray Peoples Liberation Front (TPLF) in November last year, thousands of people have been killed and hundreds of thousands have been killed. People are forced to leave their homes. FFive million people also need assistance.

Biden made the above comments after the U.S. State Department announced on Monday that it would impose economic and security restrictions on Ethiopia, as well as visa restrictions on current or former Ethiopian and Eritrean government officials and members of the countrys security forces.

Visa restrictions also apply to other personnel, including the Amhara region and irregular forces and members of the TPLF, which are considered responsible or complicit in undermining the resolution of the Tigri crisis. Say.

U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Brinken said that these measures are intended to urge a resolution of the conflict, but the Ethiopian government defendant The Biden administration interfered in its internal affairs.

The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Monday that if the United States continues to impose restrictions, Addis Ababa will be forced to reassess its relationship with the United States, which may affect our bilateral relations outside the impact.

The U.S. government tried to intervene [Ethiopias] Internal affairs are not only inappropriate, they are also totally unacceptable, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs statement said.

The Ethiopian government is facing increasing international pressure to investigate Tigris alleged violations of rights, including rape And other forms of sexual violence, extrajudicial executions and forced displacement.Wink Say In March, ethnic cleansing took place in the area.

Ethiopia has denied widespread atrocities, Say On May 21, the court convicted four soldiers of killing civilians or raping them, and tried 53 others for the same crimes, although court records have not yet been made public.

Displaced unsafe

Earlier Wednesday, the United Nations stated that it was shocked by reports that soldiers were rounding up hundreds of displaced civilians from camps in Tigray.

According to Amnesty International and witnesses, these soldiers detained at least 200 civilians from various informal camps in the Shire, beat them and snatched their mobile phones, and then forced them into trucks.

Elisabeth Haslund, a spokesperson for the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), told AFP: We understand that this situation is not only for the relatives of missing young people, but also for the entire displaced community in Shire. It is painful and disturbing,

We have observed that thousands of (displaced) people fled the scene because they felt unsafe and they thought these spaces were no longer safe.

Senior UN officials also caveat Urgent measures must be taken to avoid widespread famine in Tigray.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs stated in its latest news earlier this month that the Ethiopian government promised unrestricted humanitarian access in December last year, but due to active hostilities, most of the region, especially Rural areas are still largely cut off. (OCHA).

OCHA said that since the beginning of March, all parties to the conflict have sealed off parts of the central, southern and southeastern Tigray, warning that food insecurity in the area remains enormous and terrifying.
The police once again arrested a Calgary mayor candidate who threatened to arm himself and go to the home of a health worker. He has been charged for violating public health restrictions related to COVID-19 and is therefore already facing a restraining order.

In the early hours of Wednesday morning, Edmonton police arrested Kevin J. Johnston. He faces other charges in Alberta, as well as charges of assault and hate crimes in British Columbia and Ontario.

Calgary police said he was wanted for causing harassment and violating the Queens Court Order.

The second offence is to participate in illegal public gatherings.

Calgary police said in a statement that the latest allegations are related to an incident that occurred at the CORE shopping center in downtown Calgary on Saturday.

Police said that after the conflict with Johnston that day, several store employees reported that they were worried about their safety.

Allegedly, Johnston entered the mall store without wearing a mask. The police said in a statement that when he was asked to wear a helmet, he verbally abused the employees.

Police said Johnston will leave the store, bring back more people, and continue to verbally invite employees while the incident is broadcast live.

The police said that many of the shop employees involved are young people who work either alone or with other people and worry about their safety due to group confrontations.

The police continue to investigate the conduct of people who were with Johnston during the alleged verbal abuse.

past

Johnston has a history of belligerent and racist behavior, and he said he was prepared to arm himself and go to the homes of health officials to arrest people who had taken law enforcement actions.

Currently, he is subject to a restraining order sought by Alberta Health Services, which prohibits him from obstructing or interfering with Alberta Health Services employees.

Johnston was promoted and attended three large gatherings, which violated the pandemic-related health restrictions. He was arrested by Calgary police on May 8.

He has been accused of repeatedly refusing to comply with public health restrictions and organizing activities that encourage others to also violate the rules. His hearing is scheduled for June 16.
The beloved childrens author and illustrator Eric Carle, his classics Hungry caterpillar Other works brought the earliest and most cherished literary memory to millions of children at the age of 91.

Carls family said he died on Sunday at his summer studio in Northampton, Massachusetts, and his family stayed with him. The family announcement was made by the Penguin Youth Leader.

By like Brown bear, brown bear, what do you see?, Do you want to be my friend? with From head to toe, Carl introduced general themes with simple text and bright colors.

He once observed: The unknown often brings fear. In my book, I try to use a positive message to eliminate this fear. I believe that children are naturally creative and eager to learn. I want to learn from them. Show that learning is really fun and fun.

Hungry caterpillarPublished in 1969, its story tells the metamorphosis of green and red caterpillars. The colors of blue and brown become proud multi-colored butterflies, which are welcomed by parents and happy children.

In September 1973, people read The Hungry Caterpillar in a bookstore in the UK. (Night Standard/Hughton Archives/Getty Images)

Originally thought to be a book about bookworms, called Spend a week with Willy the Worm -The hero who eats through 26 different foods was changed to a caterpillar at the suggestion of his editor. It has sold about 40 million copies, has been translated into 60 languages, produced stuffed animal caterpillars, and has become a stage play.

Carl told the New York Times in 1994: I remember when I was a child, I always felt that I would never grow up, to be smart, intelligent, and intelligent.caterpillar It is a book full of hope: you can also grow up and grow wings. 

As we all know, politicians like George W. Bush and Hillary Clinton read this book to children in the campaign. The American Academy of Pediatrics sent a special edition of the book to more than 17,000 pediatricians, with growth charts and parent handouts on healthy eating. Veteran author and illustrator Ted Dewan called the book one of the pillars of childrens culture.

He said: Its almost talking about how great the Beetle is. This is beyond reproach.

Unique illustration style

Carle wrote and/or exemplified 75 books, sometimes in collaboration with Bill Martin Jr. or other authors, but most of them worked with Carle.One of his latest books is 2015 Bullshit show, Centered on flying fish, cat-raising mice and circus parades.

Carl and his family were born to German immigrant parents in Syracuse, New York, and he returned to Germany at the age of six, which was then Nazi Germany. Under Nazi rule, modern, expressionist and abstract art were banned, and only realist and naturalist art were allowed.

Carl read from Little Bear and Little Bear, what do you see? Established in New York City in October 2007. (Mary Altaf/Associated Press)

When Carle was 12 or 13, a high school art teacher would invite him to his home to change his life, where he secretly displayed his expressionist art, including Franz Marc s work. Blue horse.

Carle told NPR in 2011: I am used to painting beautiful pictures on the mountains in the background. Although I am shocked, I always miss that day. As an illustrator, he said that he chose to paint in unconventional colors. Animals showed his young readers that there are no wrong colors in art.He thanked Marc for An artist who draws a blue horse.

His iconic illustration technique is mainly done by piecing pictures together using thin paper he painted in various colors and textures. He told the Associated Press in 2003: It sounds old-fashioned, but I think I have a connection with my child, and I think other people are the same.
On October 5 last year, Masud Ahmed passed through Mathura, a small town in Uttar Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, when a group of policemen waved to him.

The officers who were manning the checkpoint asked him and the three co-passengers questions, including their names, affiliation, and purpose of travel.

The 26-year-old student activist, wearing a gray button-down shirt and a blue hat with a short beard, told the officers that they were heading to a small town in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, which is a short distance from Mathura. ) 43 kilometers (26 miles) away from the capital New Delhi, about 200 kilometers (124 miles).

These four people are going to know the family of a 19-year-old Dalit boy who was Gang rape Three weeks before the start of the journey, it was composed of four Hindu upper class members.

The Dalits, formerly known as untouchables, are at the lowest level in Indias complex Indian caste hierarchy. They have been oppressed by Indians for centuries, and they have been oppressed by the privileged class.

The woman was dragged out of the field and raped and was seriously injured. As a result of the attack, her tongue was severed and her spinal cord was broken.

Last September 29th, she Last breath In a hospital in New Delhi.

That night, the Uttar Pradesh police secretly cremated her body without her familys consent. The latter stated that they were Locked in their house During cremation.

Protesters protesting the gang rape and killing of Dalit women in Haslas boycotted each other as the police tried to detain them in New Delhi on September 30, 2020 [Altaf Qadri/AP Photo]

The rape of Dalit women and their subsequent burning by the police caused widespread anger, and demonstrations were held in different parts of the country against the right-wing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the state.

Ahmed and three others, including journalists Siddique Kappan, Decided to go to Hatteras to meet the families of the victims.

However, the four men were stopped by the police and asked to leave the car. They were then taken to the local police station and charged with breaching public peace, which is a bailable crime.

My son became a victim because the arrest of Muslims was the headline news. Chand Bibi, Ahmeds mother

But this is only the beginning of their suffering.

What he did to that girl shocked him. All he did was visit her family in unity and share their pain as a student activist, Ahmeds brother Morris, 32, Monis Ahmed Khan told Al Jazeera.

Ahmed (Ahmed) is a resident of Bahraich in northeastern Uttar Pradesh and is the head of students at the Campus Frontier (CFI) in India.

CFI is a student faction of the Peoples Front of India (PFI), a Muslim organization with a pan-Indian presence. It is often accused by Indian authorities of extremist links. The organization denies this accusation.

The other persons arrested along with Ahmed are 27-year-old Atiq-ur Rehman and 30-year-old Mohd Alam from Uttar Pradesh, and 41-year-old Kappan from the southern state of Kerala.

It took Khan two days to obtain a bail permit to release his brother, but the police have other plans.

On October 7, the four men were charged with conspiracy to cause caste violence in the state and charged with sedition and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), which is a strict anti-terrorism law. Allow up to 180 days of detention free of charge.

This news shocked all of us. He is not a criminal or a terrorist, but a student activist fighting for injustice.

Masud Ahmed shouted slogans during a campus demonstration in New Delhi [Courtesy: Monis Ahmed Khan]

Ahmeds family, friends, and student activists recalled that he was a fierce young student leader, and he hoped to serve his people by joining the federal bureaucracy that the Indian dream wanted.

They now worry that it may be too late to realize his dream before the countrys painful and slow judicial process and before letting him realize his innocence.

Journalism and campus activities

Eight years ago, Ahmed moved to Delhi to pursue a masters degree in journalism at Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), a well-known university established by Muslims in India. Established in the freedom movement against British rule.

Soon, he found himself involved in student political activities on campus.

Safoora Zargar, a student leader and research scholar from JMI, said that in addition to studying, Ahmed spends most of his time communicating student dissatisfaction to the university administration.

Zagar told Al Jazeera: He is a leader fighting for the rights of students. He always stands on the right and fair position without worrying about the consequences.

Zargar was also charged with UAPA last year for participating in a protest against a controversial citizenship law passed by the government of UAPA Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He was sentenced to prison last year. Weeks.

Ahmed will visit a slum near his university to encourage children to go to school and help them fill out scholarship application forms to continue their studies.

After completing the journalism course, he interned for the news website BeyondHeadlines in New Delhi, which mainly reports on political and social issues related to Indian minorities (mainly Muslims).

Ahmed (Ahmed), left, an assignment during his internship at BeyondHeadlines in 2015 [Courtesy: Masud Ahmeds Facebook]

In August 2016, he rejoined JMI and took another Master of Public Administration program.

In the same year, the Modi government announced a plan to abolish the minority status of JMI, which allowed the university to reserve 50% of the seats for students in the Muslim community, which has a relatively low proportion of the education system in India.

When people were angry at this move, college students launched a protest movement with Ahmed as one of its leaders.

In 2017, he participated in another round of protests demanding the resumption of the JMI Student Union, which was banned by the university administration in 2006.

Aman Qurashi, a 23-year-old student activist at JMI, told Al Jazeera: He strongly recommends that students be provided with a democratic space on campus to express their dissatisfaction and will always lead from the front.

After completing the second masters program in 2018, Ahmed broke away from campus politics and began to prepare for the acclaimed Indian Administrative Service Exam.

He even rejected applications for MBA admissions and scholarships from Cardiff Metropolitan University in the United Kingdom.

He wants to serve the poor and marginalized, Ahmeds JMI classmate Harmeet Kaur, now a student in Cardiff, told Al Jazeera.

Ahmed sat in front of the graffiti on the JMI wall, trying to restore the student union [Courtesy: Masud Ahmeds Facebook]

Muslim arrests make headlines

Ahmeds 51-year-old mother, Chand Bibi, has been glued to a prayer blanket since October, seeking Gods intervention. When the prison authorities allowed a one-minute call to speak with her son, she desperately waited for Monday.

According to Bibi, Ahmed and three others were used as scapegoats to divert attention from the Uttar Pradesh governments controversial handling of the rape and murder of Dalit women.

My son became a victim because the arrest of Muslims was the headline news. Everything has been done and the focus has been shifted from the Haslas case. Bibi told Al Jazeera.

Saifan Shaikh, Ahmeds lawyer, stated that most of the cases against him were based on his activism against BJP and its ideological mentor Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), including his Critical Facebook and Twitter posts.

Sheikh told Al Jazeera: His student enthusiasm and opposition to the government are also the main reasons for his imprisonment.

He wants to serve the poor and marginalized. Ahmeds companion Harmeet Kaur

The lawyer also accused the police of torturing Ahmed in custody.

The Superintendent and Deputy Superintendent-level police officers kicked, slapped and tortured him. Sheikh was told that Muslims should be imprisoned.

On April 2, the Special Task Force (STF) of the Uttar Pradesh Police submitted a 5,000-page indictment to the Mathura Court against Ahmed, Kappan, Rahman, Alam and four others who were later added to the case. .

The defendants lawyer has not received a copy of the allegation, only a 22-page summary. In the summary seen by Al Jazeera, 44 of the 55 people referred to as prosecution witnesses were police officers.

Allegedly, bank transfers of 2500 rupees (35 U.S. dollars) in 2018 were seen as evidence of Ahmeds direct connection with PFI. He is proficient in Malayalam, a language spoken in Kerala, which is believed to be the reason why he is regarded as a reliable figure in the Muslim community.

Sheikh said: The intention of the police is to fabricate a story and ensure that he suffers from long-term jail.

Fear of prison security

Ahmeds family worried about his safety in prison. In a call in March, he told them that he was concerned about physical attacks by prisoners transferred to his prison unit.

Because of his Muslim status and the accusations against him, he is considered anti-national and there are attempts to attack him. He is afraid they will put something in his food to kill him, Ahmeds brother Khan said.

He wrote several letters to state officials, including police chief Hitesh Awasthy, to ensure the safety of his brother, but received no response.

Sheikh also accused the prison authorities of continuous mental abuse and treated him as a slave. He said that prison staff refused to read Ahmed or eat on time, which forced him to work hard and sometimes left him in a state of isolation.

They violated all his human rights, Sheikh told Al Jazeera.

Separation from her son has caused damage to Bibis physical and mental health, but she said it will not weaken her determination to prove her sons innocence.

He stood up against injustice, she burst into tears. Now I will not allow anyone to do unjust things to him.
The Real Housewives fans in New Jersey criticized Teresa Giudice as ignorant and irresponsible because he insisted that Jackie Goldschneider rib Jackie Goldschneider was sexually harassed by his superiors as a choice.

In the second part of the dramatic Bravo season finale, there was a heated discussion with host Andy Cohen about sexual harassment in the workplace.

? Follow all our latest news and stories Real housewife.

1 piece Credit: Bravo

Andy, 52, brought up this topic and asked Jackie, 44, if he had encountered any wrongdoing while working as a lawyer.

She nodded and said, Yes, the boss will massage my shoulder.

Immediately, Teresa, 49, rolled her eyes, laughed, and shot backwards, Did you let them come?

Yes, because I dont want to be fired, Jackie replied-Terezas dismissive attitude annoyed him.

The mother of four laughed loudly and said, Oh, my goodness.

After watching the live broadcast, the host asked: Theresa, have you ever experienced sexual harassment?

No. No one wants to put their hands on me unless I want to. She said firmly.

Andy looked shocked and was forced to explain to Mother Teresa, This is not a weak sign of being sexually harassed.

Teresa reiterated: I just said that no one will touch me unless I want them to touch.

The brave boss, Jackie and her Margaret Josephs (Margaret Josephs) agreed that the conversation has begun to turn into victim humiliation.

When you work hard and dont want to be fired, its not let them do it, Jackie retorted with an annoyed facial expression.

Then Margaret asked Mother Teresa if she believed that all victims who came forward would let it happen.

Im talking about me. Some women are intimidated by the boss. I just told me that it wont happen.

Fill in The Friends Rich List and how the creators and stars of the show made their fortunes Let him do it! After Cummings testified, Piers Morgan hinted that he would return to GMB tomorrow Spoiler Violent harassment Kat Slater of EastEnders shaken when he was robbed in the square showdown The evil Sharon Bentley held Corries Rita Tanner and Jenny Connor at gunpoint Back to more Dock and Susanna return to GMB-for special reasons beautiful Former EastEnders star Hetti Bywater stunningly showcases the beauty of nature
The gunman was accused of killing eight people at the San Jose Railroad, then shooting himself, allegedly raping his ex-girlfriend and easily aroused anger after drinking.

57-year-old Samuel Cassidy (Samuel Cassidy) has been identified as the gunman by law enforcement officers. He was at around 6:30 on Wednesday morning. Blasted into the maintenance yard of the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) at a union meeting in San Jose, killing eight colleagues and wounding several others.

11 The shooter was appointed as the 57-year-old Valley Transportation Authority mechanic Samuel Cassidy (Samuel Cassidy) Credit: VTA

11 According to reports, a bomb squad consisting of the San Jose Police Department and the FBI arrived at the scene and entered the guard room, where explosives were reportedly placed Credit: Getty

11 Armed men at the scene Credit: AP

Allegedly, before Cassidys deceased house (approximately 10 miles away) caught fire, he was said to have caught fire before the rampage.

The man was described by two women as being completely dark during his life.

According to 2009, after a domestic violence incident, the ex-girlfriend imposed a restraining order on the 57-year-old man. San Francisco Chronicle.

The publication cited court documents related to the family relationship of a 45-year-old woman, implying that the man suffered from biphasic displacement and absorbed a large amount of alcohol.

11 Cassidy, suspected of mass shooting, killed 8 people and severely wounded several others in the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) before committing suicide. He allegedly burned his house Credit: AFP

11 Cassidy once worked at VTA and complained to his ex-wife that his job is more difficult than his colleagues Credit: AP

11 After Wednesdays bloodshed, technicians from the San Jose Bomb Squad prepared bomb robots to enter the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authoritys site Credit: Reuters

According to the Chronicle, the 5-foot-4 woman weighing 120 pounds claimed in a sworn statement that she had resisted aggressive behavior several times against the 6-foot-1, 200-pound Cassidy.

The woman claimed that the physical and mental abuse she suffered in court documents cited by The Chronicle portrayed a sadistic character.

According to court documents cited in the article, she said: He also played some thinking games that he seemed to like very much, she said.

According to the newspaper, the woman claimed in September 2008 that Cassidy forced herself after throwing her on the bed.

11 As of 6.34 am local time on Saturday, the San Jose police responded to the scene Credit: AP

11 Police cars driving around the VTA Credit: EPA

11 According to reports, the company has 2,100 employees, but it is not clear how many people were on the scene at the time. Credit: AP

The woman wrote in a sworn statement: In this relationship, on several occasions he became intoxicated, angry and forced himself to sexually assault me.

When she rejected him, he holds my arm and presses his weight on me, thus restraining me.

Another incident occurred afterwards in which Cassidy allegedly tried to force the woman to have anal sex.

The man appeared to express remorse after the attack and vowed to abandon this request.

11 VTA is a crime scene, after the fatal shooting on Wednesday, bomb sniffer dogs searched for houses Credit: EPA

11 Workers were evacuated from the railway yard Credit: AP

According to the Chronicle, he was obviously so obsessed with this kind of sex that he threatened that if she did not acquiesce, she would break up with her on Valentines Day.

In February 2009, the woman said that Cassidy shared her residence with another woman.

Allegedly, Cassidy loses his temper whenever he asks about new women or their relationship status.

The publication also reported that the womans court documents showed that Cassidy admitted that he had stolen tools and equipment from his current and past employers.

Cecilia Nelms, Cassidys ex-wife, recalled the man who had been married to her for ten years. He was very moody.

He has two aspects, 64-year-old Nelms said to Canon City Daily Record. When he is in a good mood, he is a good person. When he is angry, he is angry.

The newspaper stated that the couple divorced in 2005 and she had not had any contact with him for ten years.

Two years before his marriage, Cassidy had been working as a mechanic for a San Jose car dealer before working at VTA.

The document found that Cassidy obtained a permit to conduct smoke inspections in 2003 and had worked at a San Jose Mazda dealer.

Cassidy showed signs of anxiety when working at the VTA early in his work at the train station.

The ex-wife told the Daily Record: He just thought that some people would be easy-going at work, and he would get harder work.

According to the public database, as of 2019, Cassidy is the maintainer and mechanic of the substation Transparent California.

Sergeant of Santa Clara County. Russell Davis (Russell Davis) confirmed on Wednesday that all nine people killed in the violent riots are considered VTA employees.

According to reports, the company has 2,100 employees, but it is not clear how many people were on the scene at the time.

One of the victims died while being taken to the hospital.

The other victim is still in the hospital in a critical condition.

Cassidy and the responders did not exchange fire.

The officials claimed that when he realized that the representative was in the building, the man shot himself.

Officials said all eight victims were shot dead in two different buildings in the train yard.

It is believed that the fatal incident occurred when the workers held a union meeting, Korean TV report.

The bomb team also used sniffer dogs to search the building from room to room because it was suspected that Cassidy had installed various explosive devices at the VTA station.

Horror discovery Neighbors shed tears after discovering the body of the boy kidnapped and killed, 4 The death of the drummer Rock star school was hit and killed by a car while riding a bike Laboratory leaks? Biden urges spies to investigate shut up Covid leak theory after detection Why is he attending the COP? Drunk driving complains after crash and murder Newest Working RAMPAGE After the explosives were discovered, the railway worker shot and killed 8 people and himself in a union meeting They are real The pilot who saw the UFO said the crew remained silent for fear of being called weird

The authorities told KPIX5 that bomb-making materials were found in the home of a VTA employee.

According to law enforcement sources interviewed by the Los Angeles Times, Cassidys residence was allegedly set on fire by Cassidy himself, and contained several weapons and hundreds of bullets.

A spokesperson for the San Jose Fire Department confirmed that the shooting involved multiple scenarios, but declined to elaborate further.

Local media reported that Cassidys name was on the house under investigation by the authorities.
Lyndonville CSD has Teaching Vacancies we are looking to fill for next school year:

Elementary

Special Education

Literacy Specialist

Chemistry/General Science

Spanish 7-12

Instrumental Music K-12



Effective Date will be September 1, 2021.



Starting Salary will be determined according to District procedure and LTA Agreement

Deadline to apply will be June 11, 2021.



We are EOE.

Lyndonville CSD has Teaching Vacancies we are looking to fill for next school year:

Elementary

Special Education

Literacy Specialist

Chemistry/General Science

Spanish 7-12

Instrumental Music K-12



Effective Date will be September 1, 2021.



Starting Salary will be determined according to District procedure and LTA Agreement

Deadline to apply will be June 11, 2021.



We are EOE.

Lyndonville CSD has Teaching Vacancies we are looking to fill for next school year:

Elementary

Special Education

Literacy Specialist

Chemistry/General Science

Spanish 7-12

Instrumental Music K-12



Effective Date will be September 1, 2021.



Starting Salary will be determined according to District procedure and LTA Agreement

Deadline to apply will be June 11, 2021.



We are EOE.

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The United States accuses Arturo Murillo, Bolivias former Minister of the Interior of accepting bribes from American companies and individuals.

The United States has arrested former Bolivian President Jeanine Anez (Jeanine Anez) cabinet minister of the interim government for bribery and money laundering.

in a statement On Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Justice accused the former Secretary of the Interior Arturo Murillo and his former staff Sergio Mendez of accepting bribes from U.S. companies and individuals to ensure that the Bolivian government Contracts.

The department accused the couple of then using the US financial system to launder money.

The three U.S. citizens were also charged with a bribery plan between November 2019 and April 2020.

The Justice Department said the Americans were accused of paying $602,000 to Bolivian officials to secure a $5.6 million contract to provide tear gas and other non-lethal equipment to the Bolivian Ministry of Defense.

Five men were charged with one count of conspiracy to launder money. If convicted, they will face up to 20 years in prison.

Murillo was also wanted for sedition for his role in the Anez Provisional Government.

After the resignation of Bolivias first indigenous president, Evo Morales, in November 2019, Anez resigned due to pressure from some members of the public, armed forces and opposition leaders.

Morale Back to Exiled to Argentina from his Socialist Movement (MAS) party candidate in November last year won The long-awaited presidential election.

Anez and other former officials are Arrested He was accused of a coup in March.She used to be Order She was detained for four months shortly after her arrest.

But Murillo left Bolivia before the arrest warrant.

He played a central role in hunting down Morales and his main supporters on charges of sedition and terrorism, and was criticized for his harsh response to the military and police protest, Dozens of them were killed.

Human rights groups and international observers criticized the Bolivian government for arresting Anez and his minister, and emphasized the importance of due process.
Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble signed an agreement with the regional president to allow indirect voting.

Somali Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble (Mohamed Hussein Roble) signed an agreement with the regional president to allow indirect elections and promised to conduct free and fair polls.

After months of delays triggered a crisis, the development began on Thursday.

The tribal elders originally planned to elect members of Parliament in December, and then members of Parliament will elect a new president on February 8.

In a dispute involving the formation of an election committee to monitor voting, neither procedure took place.

Disagreements have raised concerns that clans may open up to each other, and Al-Shabaab armed groups linked to al-Qaeda may use the security vacuum.

My government and I are committed to implementing free and fair indirect elections. We are all responsible for ensuring that women receive a 30% quota (positions). I urge all state presidents to promote and implement this goal. After signing the agreement, Rob Said at the ceremony.

The agreement was read out at the ceremony and stated that Robler and the five regional states will elect members of the election committee by Sunday.

Vote within 60 days

The agreement says that elections will be held within the next 60 days, and each district will vote in two locations.

My dear brothers, politicians, whatever you need, put it in front of me. Dont search elsewhere. Let us all forgive each other, and I ask you to forgive me, Roble said.

Somalias original goal was to hold the first direct elections since the outbreak of the civil war in 1991, but the delay in Al-Shabaabs preparations and continuous attacks forced Somalia to vote indirectly.

President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed (the second president) seeks re-election. The opposition accused him of forming regional and national election commissions with allies.

In April, the House of Commons voted to extend the presidents four-year term for another two years.

The Senate refused to postpone, and troops opposed to this move seized positions in the capital. After that, they returned to the barracks.
The Chinese Embassy in Washington, DC claimed that after President Biden ordered an intelligence review of the origin of the virus, people became suspicious of political manipulation.

Politicizing the source of COVID-19 will hinder further investigations and undermine global efforts to contain the pandemic. After President Biden ordered a review of US intelligence on how and where the virus first appeared Said.

The Washington, D.C. embassy said in a statement on its website on Wednesday night: Some political forces have focused their attention on political manipulation and (non-)accusation games.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is preparing to start the second phase of research on the origin of COVID-19, and China is under pressure to provide investigators with more access, because some people accuse SARS-CoV-2 from the laboratorys research. The laboratory leaked. Wuhan City, the first COVID-19 case appeared at the end of 2019.

China has repeatedly denied that the laboratory is responsible, accusing the United States and other countries of trying to divert attention from its failure to control the virus.

Biden said on Wednesday that U.S. intelligence agencies had disagreements over whether COVID-19 derived from human contact with infected animals or laboratory accidents.

Earlier this week, news showed that U.S. agencies were reviewing reports on: Three researchers in the Wuhan laboratory became ill in November 2019, so much so that they sought hospital care.

Dr. Amesh Adalja, an expert on biosafety and emerging infectious diseases, told Al Jazeera: We are starting to see a large flow of evidence that the Chinese government has not yet been transparent. We heard that it is in Wuhan. People who work in the Virus Research Institute are sick. We know that this situation has been spreading since November 2019. We have seen that the Chinese government is very reluctant to let the press investigate its origin. This virus, so I think it triggered the relevant The question of adapting the Chinese government to what might happen in the early stages of the pandemic.

Huang Yanzhong, a senior researcher for global health at the Foreign Relations Committee in Washington, DC, said that Chinas lack of openness is a key factor in Chinas re-emergence. Laboratory leak theory.

There is nothing new to prove this hypothesis, he said. When investigating the origin of the pandemic, it is really important to maintain transparency to build trust in the results of the investigation.

The World Health Organization (WHO) team is responsible for investigating the origin of the coronavirus disease. At the beginning of this year, under strict security protection, they visited Wuhan and Wuhan and its surrounding areas, including research laboratories and the seafood market where the first case occurred. [File: Thomas Peter/Reuters]

Comprehensive Research

After the successful suppression of the virus in the central Chinese city of Wuhan, China has stepped up its efforts to control the influenza pandemic. Wuhan is a city in central China. At the end of 2019, a mysterious new type of viral pneumonia was discovered for the first time.

Informers, reporters and families of the victims are here Under pressure. Dr. Li Wenliang, an ophthalmologist, was one of the first to warn the public about the virus and was detained by the police for spreading rumors.. In December last year, former reporter Zhang Zhan, a citizen journalist, was accused of provoking and causing trouble and sentenced to four years in prison for his work in the early stages of the outbreak. Others will also face trial on similar charges.

The Chinese Embassy stated that it supports a comprehensive study of all early COVID-19 cases discovered around the world, and a thorough investigation of some secret bases and biological laboratories around the world.

The Global Times tabloid of the ruling Communist Party Peoples Daily newspaper group stated on Wednesday night that if it wants to further study the laboratory leak theory, the United States should also allow investigators to enter its own facilities, including the Ford Forts laboratory. Trik

Jamie Metzl, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council think tank, said: It is clear that they are trying to get their way out of trouble, and he has been fighting for a new independent investigation.

A joint study published in March by China and the World Health Organization stated that this is The possibility of SARS-CoV-2 leaking from the laboratory is extremely smallAnd added that it is very likely to spread from bats to humans through an unidentified intermediate species.

China also continues to point out that COVID-19 may have originated elsewhere and entered the country through frozen food or infection from the wildlife trade network in southeastern China.

In February last year, COVID-19 received intensive care in a hospital in Wuhan [File: China Daily via Reuters]

The epidemic started in China, Metzl said. Lets start with a full investigation there and expand as needed. In short, this [statement from the embassy] It is a cruel insult to everyone and their families who have lost their lives in this terrible tragedy. 

CFRs Huang said that further investigations into the origin of COVID-19 are at a stalemate.

Huang said: Ideally, you want China to be more cooperative and more transparent. But now this issue has become so politicized, and the risk of investigation is so high.
The changes made by the opposition in institutions without opposition have reduced the number of directly elected seats and will freeze the seats of most Chinese critics.

Since British rule, Hong Kongs opposition legislature has approved the largest reform of its political system. This is a decisive step in maintaining Beijings authority over the autonomous city.

The measure received 40 votes in favor and 2 votes against it on Thursday. Since last year, the pro-Beijing government has not encountered opposition in the legislature. At that time, China disqualified some pro-democracy politicians, while others resigned in protest.

These changes will reduce the proportion of directly elected legislative seats from half to less than a quarter. A new agency will be authorized to review candidates and ban candidates who are deemed unpatriotic to China.

Pro-Beijing legislator Peter Shiu said: There are only a few words in the 600 pages of legislation: Patriots rule Hong Kong.

Most of the changes were announced by China in March, but the Hong Kong authorities later provided more details, such as redrawing electoral boundaries and criminalizing ballot blanks.

The Chinese authorities stated that the purpose of the electoral reform is to eliminate the loopholes and deficiencies that threatened national security during the anti-government turmoil in 2019, and to ensure that only patriots manage the city.

The number of seats in the legislature will increase from 70 to 90. The number of directly elected seats will be reduced from 35 to 20. The Election Committee will fill 40 seats, and the Election Committee will also be responsible for electing the CEO.

The new review committee, which has the power to disqualify candidates, will work with national security agencies to ensure that these people are loyal to Beijing.

The election of the Election Committee is scheduled to be held on September 19, and the election of the legislature is scheduled to be held three months later. The committee will elect the CEO on March 27, 2022.

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam is not sure if she will seek re-election. Since the handover from British rule in 1997, she has faced the largest and most violent wave of anti-government protests after proposing a bill allowing extradition to mainland China.

Beijing has promised that in its mini-constitution, the Basic Law, universal suffrage is the ultimate goal of Hong Kong. The Basic Law also states that Hong Kong has extensive autonomy by the Chinese government.

Pro-democracy people and Western countries say that political reforms have caused the city to develop in the opposite direction, giving the democratic opposition the most limited space it has since the handover.

Since China promulgated a national security law in 2020, criminalizing what it considers to be subversion, separatism, terrorism, or collusion with foreign powers, most democracy activists and politicians have found themselves trapped or trapped by it. Arrested for other reasons.

In addition, on Thursday, the Hong Kong police banned vigilance activities for the next month, marking the deadly Tiananmen Square crackdown in Beijing. This is the second consecutive year that the authorities have refused permission.

The Hong Kong Alliance, which has hosted its annual vigil for more than 30 years, said the police cited the coronavirus pandemic that refused to proceed.

The alliance said: We will continue to fight for the right to legal mourning, June 4, adding that it plans to appeal.
Advanced economies are enjoying a greater recovery than we expected a few months ago. The silver lining comes from improving health prospects, the power of government insurance (protecting income during lock-in periods), and the central banks facilitating cheap government borrowing. But this is still only recovery. Even the United States has not increased its activities to pre-pandemic levels, let alone achieved the expected output before the virus infection.

Until the economy continues to exceed the pre-Covid-19 GDP forecast levels, no one can use the phrase better reconstruction as a goal achieved. To succeed, advanced economies must increase the productivity of their labor. Only with a more efficient economy can we raise wages, improve living standards, and pay off coronavirus debt without adding additional pressure.

But productivity has been the Achilles heel of all major economies in this century. In the UK, the growth rate after 2005 dropped by 1.76 percentage points, from an average of 2.21% in the previous ten years to only 0.45%. The decline in the United States is almost the same, while Japan maintains the dubious honor of best performance, and the annual decline is still 0.8%.

In order to explain this poor performance, there is almost no solution, and many articles have been written. At one time, a handful of people blamed the 2008-09 global financial crisis, and few attempts have been made to identify common causes.

A kind New research The University of Oxford at Oxford Martin College strives to solve many of these problems by carefully using international evidence and accepting that there will never be a completely clean answer. It managed to rule out some possible causes, including a decline in the skill level of employees (which seems to be important only in Germany) or incorrect measurement of data (which cannot fully explain part of the crisis).

Instead, the authors determined that the reasons are broad and common to all countries. These are the lower growth of investment in all forms of capital (digital, machinery, transportation equipment, and intangible assets) and the deterioration of the way capitalism works. The problem of investment growth is roughly divided into two parts between the cyclical factors caused by insufficient demand after the financial crisis and the shift to intangible investment and other structural forces. In this intangible investment, the slowdown in growth has caused more extensive economic progress. Great damage. Elsewhere, deeper system failures reduce competitive pressures, allowing companies to increase profit margins without increasing efficiency.

This work is very helpful because it provides us with a framework to judge whether countries have developed Covid-19 recovery policies. Only by pulling demand to achieve a high-pressure economy, and hope that the subsequent productivity growth will not succeed.This article estimates that this element accounts for Up to 0.4% Therefore, more demand and expenditure must be accompanied by attempts to improve the operation of the economy, make the companys life less comfortable, intensify competition and re-commit to globalization.

They show that countries can take certain clear steps to improve the lives of their citizens without having to hope that new technologies will generate a wave of productivity that they can manage. For example, the Biden government will receive high marks for improving demand and seeking to increase investment, but it still fails to meet its commitment to expanding international competition through its Buy America ??trade policy.

There are often differences in economics circles between countries that promote strong demand and those that hope to restore the vitality of the past few decades through supply-side policies. The fact is that both are necessary, and even then, they still cannot guarantee success.

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If dozens of MPs lose their seats in the early elections, they may lose the opportunity to participate in the generous MPs pension plan because they will not be able to secure the six-year term required.

Ottawa officials speculate that the exact date of the next general election is coming. For 142 members of Congress, any method can take a few weeks to decide whether they will retire with a pension of tens of thousands of dollars.

Conservative MPs elected in 2015 said that no one wants to talk about it, but everyone is considering it.

According to the MPs Pension Bill, MPs must contribute to the plan for at least six years before they can receive pensions.

For the 142 members of Congress who were elected for the first time on October 19, 2015, if they fail in the elections to be held before October 19, 2021, they will not be able to receive the pensions of members of Congress.

From the age of 65, they may lose at least $32,000 in their retirement pension each year. This amount has been indexed and has become more generous based on increased service years.

Currently, the basic annual salary of members of Congress is US$185,800. Ministers and parliament secretaries will receive more salaries and allowances.

According to a statistics from Radio Canada, in the early elections, more than half of the Liberal Partys core figures (92 members of Congress, including 23 ministers) may not be able to receive pensions. Cabinet ministers Diane Lebouthillier and Jean-Yves Duclos may face fierce competition. They are competing with 31 Conservative MPs and nine EU MPs. Seven New Democrats and three independent parties belong to the same category.

National Income Minister Diane Lebouthillier (Diane Lebouthillier) is one of the members of Congress. If she is defeated in the October election, she may not be able to get a pension plan. (Tang Jun/Canada Press)

Bloc MP Gabriel Ste-Marie was elected in October 2015 and has been in service for almost six years. He told Radio Canada that pensions were the last thing he worried about, and officials elected only to make money entered politics for the wrong reasons.

New Democratic Party Democrat Daniel Blaikie agreed with this statement, saying that he did not run for Congress to obtain a generous pension.

Taboo topics

However, at least one member of Congress said in an interview with Radio Canada that the imminent pension deadline may encourage some of his colleagues to postpone their retirement.

Another federal congressman, who asked not to be named, said that for older congressmen, this may affect whether they choose to run again.

Genevieve Tellier, a professor of political science at the University of Ottawa, said the whole topic of politicians salaries and pensions is a bit taboo-elected officials dont like to talk about it because the public thinks their salaries are high.

Members who have not reached six years of service before leaving office will receive a lump-sum pension to repay their interest.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus majority of seats will be affected by the pension period. Will this affect the calculation of the prime minister before and after the next general election?

Blackie said that the financial situation of members of Congress should never be considered in the election.

Tyrell told Radio Canada that strategists in the Prime Ministers Office will focus more on the partys needs and its chances of winning a majority in the House of Commons, rather than on the financial difficulties of individual MPs.

Trudeaus team also realizes that it cant wait to dissolve the parliament. If it wants to avoid overlapping with the municipal elections in Quebec on November 7, its not okay.

On Tuesday, members of the Federal Parliament almost unanimously passed a non-binding bill calling on all parties to avoid elections during the pandemic.

However, it may be difficult for the PMO to determine when the exact health crisis will end.

Behind the scenes, liberal strategists hinted that the early window of the election campaign might open in mid-August, with voting in late September.

Sources from the Liberal Party told Radio Canada that if efforts to end the pandemic are done well and the opposition parties prevent Parliament from functioning properly, this situation may become a reality.

If the window does not open in the fall, Trudeau may be inclined to wait until the next federal budget in 2022 before it falls sharply.

In this case, the 142 members of Congress will have guaranteed pensions.
A Muslim-American, Sam Rasoul, was asked whether he represented voters without distinction between beliefs and beliefs.

After being asked a question in a television debate among a Muslim political candidate for a deputy governor of Virginia in the United States, critics described him as Islamophobia, which gave him widespread support.

Sam Rasoul Is a Muslim American politician, Democratic Leading Candidate In the race for the lieutenant governor of the state.

In the only live televised political debate of the campaign on Tuesday night, one of the presenters of the WJLA TV station, Dave Lucas (Dave Lucas) asked Rasul a question, which triggered a conflict. Islamophobia is widely condemned and widely condemned on social media.

Washington post Reported Lucas said in a debate held at George Mason University: in Fairfax.

Talking about your fundraising work, can you assure Virginians that if elected, regardless of their beliefs and beliefs, you will represent all of them?

Rasul, 39, is the son of Palestinian immigrants and one of the six candidates in the campaign. He replied: He is proud of this sport. This sport is 100% funded by individuals, most of which come from Virginia.

Sam Rasoul, 39, is the son of Palestinian immigrants and is running for the deputy governor of Virginia on a progressive platform [File: Steve Helber/AP Photo]

Public record Show that since last year, Rasoul has raised more than 1.2 million US dollars in funds.His biggest donor is Manal FakhouryHe is a pharmacist living in Florida and a board member of the American Council on Islamic Relations (CAIR), a Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization. She is listed as donating more than $74,000 to Rasouls campaign.

After the debate, Rasul posted a picture of Virginias religious freedom laws on Twitter, which the state adopted In 1786, The document isolates the church from the state and ensures that religious freedom is not discriminated against.

We serve everyone. All beliefs. We welcome you and love you, Rasoul tweeted.

Joshua Cole, who is running for reelection in the Virginia House of Representatives, said that no one had ever asked him how much money he received from Christian donors.

He said in a tweet: I only want a Virginia state that can be measured by Sam Rasol based on his job performance rather than his belief stereotypes.

In all the years of my campaign, no one has ever asked me how many Christian donors I have.I just want virginia @Sam_Rasoul It can be measured by the merits of his work rather than the stereotypes of beliefs. ?? pic.twitter.com/JPRLcYKfow -On behalf of Joshua Cole (@JoshuaCole) May 26, 2021

Lieutenant Governor candidate Sean Perryman also condemned the issue.

He wrote on Twitter: No other candidate is required to serve all Virginians because of their beliefs.

The chairman of the Virginia Democratic Party, Susan Swecker, said the hosts problem was a major failure and the faith-based problem was discriminatory and inexcusable.

? Correct. We do not ask Christian donors, Jewish donors, etc. Okay, look at donor funding, but it is discriminatory and unforgivable to base it on faith. The hosts major failure, and he personally relayed it to the host tonight after the debate. https://t.co/kDJ1HS3T9y Susan Swecker (@DPVAChair) May 26, 2021

CAIR said on Wednesday that Bill Fanshawe, senior vice president of WJLA, apologized In the email, Call this problem improper and disrespectful.

Nihad Awad, National Executive Director of CAIR, said in a statement: We welcome this apology and thank WJLA for strengthening and taking appropriate action against this incident of Islamic negligence. All Americans should be able to participate in our country. Without worrying about being singled out for their beliefs.

Rasul is currently one of two Muslim members of the Virginia State Assembly and is running for progressive lieutenant governor. platform These include raising the states minimum wage, expanding parenting programs, and making health care more affordable.

The Democratic primary election in Virginia was held on June 8, and the general election was held on November 2.
Prosecutors said that the former payroll manager of a Montgomery County non-profit organization provided reentry services to recently imprisoned individuals and was accused of stealing more than $154,000 from the organization.

Anglea Nadeau, 42, of Royersford, is accused of stealing funds from the Kintock Group upstream of Dublin over a three-year period from 2017 to 2020. She allegedly issued an unauthorized check to a former employee and changed the direct deposit information to send the check to a bank account in her name for personal use.

The Kintec Group has residential and non-residential locations in Philadelphia, Newark, Patterson and Bridgetown. Its services include helping people who are suffering from drug abuse and other people looking for job opportunities after serving their sentences in prison.

According to investigators, Nardo was employed in the office of a non-profit company in Fort Washington under the name of Angela Claussen. The organization discovered a suspected theft in December, involving a sum of US$12,000, and notified the police. The management found that a former employee was still receiving salary after applying for unemployment benefits, and the money was deposited in the same account that Nadeau used for his direct deposit.

Source/Montgomery County DA Office Angela Nadeau

When faced with the alleged theft, investigators said that Nardo apologized to the companys management, blamed his actions on personal issues, and was terminated by the Kintock Group.

Further investigation revealed that Nardo used the former employees files and converted their records to send funds to her, thereby issuing 88 unauthorized checks to her bank account. Allegedly, the total amount of the theft was US$154,535.68, and the relevant authorities found 1,626 debit cards in the account through card transactions or cash withdrawals.

Nadeau was charged with 185 felony counts, including theft, forgery, identity theft and related crimes. The hearing was originally scheduled to be held on June 4.
A new report on the effectiveness of Canadian border restrictions stated that the federal government should terminate its mandatory three-day quarantine policy for air passengers returning to Canada in order to allow passengers to propose their own quarantine plan.

The Federal Governments COVID-19 testing and screening expert advisory group included this and other recommendations in its fourth report, and the group has been studying land-air border measures to screen for COVID-19.

The report said that the mandatory three-day quarantine rules were flawed for many reasons, including the fact that Canadians chose to pay a fine of up to 3,000 Canadian dollars instead of going to the designated quarantine facility. This may not be a fact of following the quarantine precautions. .

The report said that the hotel quarantine program is expensive for the government and travelers. It also said that because the regulations requiring quarantine in government-approved facilities only apply to air passengers, some Canadians choose to fly to a US airport near the Canadian border crossing and complete the return journey by land.

The report also warned that the three-day quarantine stay is inconsistent with the incubation period of COVID-19.

On February 22, the federal government implemented new quarantine measures at the airport, requiring all air travelers returning home from non-essential travel to wait for the polymerase chain reaction test results (commonly referred to as PCR tests-applicable to COVID-19.

People arriving at the land border must be tested for COVID-19 when they enter the country, and then again after 14 days of isolation from their homes.

Measures will not prevent variants: report

When Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was asked today whether there is a need to eliminate quarantine hotels, he advised Canadians to look forward to them for a while.

At some point we will be able to say [quarantine hotels should be eliminated]. When this point is reached, it will be based on the best advice of scientists, doctors and epidemiologists. 

When the time comes, we are all looking forward to it, but now is not the time for unnecessary travel.

The Premier of Ontario, Doug Ford, has been asking the federal government to extend the three-day quarantine rules to Canadas land borders to prevent the import of the variants of concern.

The report did point out that the previous border measures were not enough to prevent imports variants, but he warned that tightening measures that target specific countries of interest may not work.

The report states: It is important to note that when a variant is determined to beconcerning, it is likely to appear in many countries in the world.

Therefore, an excessive or targeted focus on travelers from a single country may provide a false sense of assurance and will not materially affect the existence of a country. [variant of concern] in Canada. 

More to come
The bankruptcy of Laurentian University occurred nearly four months ago. How did this school in Sudbury, Ontario get into financial trouble?

But now finally speaking publicly, President Robert Hache blamed some of the blame on those before him.

He told students in a Zoom call last week: In the past 10 or 15 years, many things have contributed to the development of the university.

Laurentian President Robert Hache asked students questions during a Zoom conference call last week. (Screenshot of zoom meeting)

Lawrences reorganization under bankruptcy proceedings Allows it to keep running while dealing with financial conditions, but it has cut dozens of programs and personnel.

Laurentian served as president from 2009 to 2017 and Dominic Giroux, now dean of the Northern School of Health Sciences at Sudbury Hospital, did not say much about the universitys financial status.

But he transferred some blame back to Hache.

Giroud said: I think Laurentian University and higher education institutions have undergone a lot of changes in the past four years.

There is no doubt that this is a sad situation. But I think this is the extent to which I can comment at the moment.

Dominic Giroux, who Laurentian served as the principal from 2009 to 2017, called the schools current financial difficulties sad, but did not comment too much on this. (Roger Corriveau/CBC)

Giroux also wrote to the provincial government and three former Laurentian board chairmen. He said that Saudi Arabias international student loss in 2018, the provinces tuition freeze in 2019, and the 2020 pandemic It was the sinking of the schools finances.

Judith Woodsworth, who Laurentian served as principal from 2002 to 2008, said she was shocked when she heard that the university was dismembered.

But she knows how the budget of a higher education institution becomes a trivial balance. She said the board instructed her to increase her enrollment and income in Laurentian when she was first hired.

Woodsworth said: I am not surprised.

Judith Woodsworth, who Laurentian served as the principal from 2002 to 2008, said she was shocked by the news that the school was dismembered. (Laurentian University)

I want to think that I never lose money, I will never lose money, and I will not take on a lot of debt to build a house, but I will not blame the people who follow. I am either.

Going further, former university president Jean Watters remembered Laurentians zero-base budget during his tenure as president from 1998 to 2001, and how the board of directors squeezed expenses.

Sometimes you have to make difficult decisions. What surprises me is that it has been allowed for so long.

Jean Watters remembers that when he was president of Laurentian from 1998 to 2001, the board of directors was tight. (Radio Canada)

Ken Coates, Professor of Public Policy at the University of Saskatchewan, Campus secrets: 100 shocking things you dont know about Canadian universities, He said that many small universities in Canada are facing similar financial difficulties.

This happened at a certain university. Its not surprising, but what surprised us is that its happening now in Lawrence, just because we dont understand the background and you dont know how the funding changes between different budgets actually are. Its going on, he said.

Coates is not surprised that Laurentian is snobbish about the exact cause of the $90 million debt.

In a sense, if I were the president of Laurentian, I would spend a whole day desperately to keep the university running stably, to move it in the right direction, and to re-establish the right direction. I am not surprised by the confidence of the agency. It is difficult to do this during the autopsy, he said.

As far as the situation is concerned, this is bad enough. If you are not careful, the situation may get worse. It should take time for the university to move on. Dont blame it. There will be time.






Position Objective: Contributes to the provision of high-quality, cost-effective health care through the direct care of patients and in collaboration with other members of the health care team. Understands self motivation in performing basic nursing care. Participates in the team nursing concept, completing tasks as delegated by the assigned nurse. Essential Job Duties: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions Provides direct care to patients with special attention to personal hygiene in daily morning and bedtime care and comfort. Initiates and maintains all types of safety measures and comfort care to patients. Provides support to patients, families and visitors in polite and ethically appropriate manner. Remains knowledgeable in oxygen administration, monitor lead application and point of care testing. Assists with admission of patients by greeting and performing initial weight measurement, vital signs, disrobing as necessary and orientation of patient to room and equipment. Prioritizes discharge of patients by assisting with dressing, gathering belongings and transport if necessary to lobby; removes equipment and supplies from room for environmental staff cleaning. Performs vein puncture and IV therapy, performs routine dressing changes and skin care, obtains blood, wound and throat cultures, inserts foley catheters and documents all procedures and treatments according to departmental policy and procedures. Participates in patient care, vital signs, intake and output and other data collection and records according to policy and procedure.; obtains specimens as requested using approved procedure. Assists patients with mobilization and/or positioning as ordered by physician or unit protocol. Recognizes and reports pain, patient complaint or obvious change in patient condition to assigned nurse. Educational/Experience Requirements: . High School Diploma or GED. RequiredLicense/Certifications: Adherence to the credentialing requirements of AAMC as stated in the Nursing By-laws.

Certified Nursing Assistant

American Heart Association HealthCare Provider BLS Working Conditions, Equipment, Physical Demands: There is a reasonable expectation that employees in this position will be exposed to blood-borne pathogens. Physical Demands - Heavy work . Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 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.


The agreement withdrew by former President Trump allowed surveillance flights on the military installations of the two countries.

America tells Russia It will not rejoin on Thursday Open sky According to reports, a U.S. official stated that the arms control agreement allows unarmed surveillance flights in member states.

The Associated Press quoted an unnamed U.S. official as saying that Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman told the Russians that the Biden administration had decided not to rejoin the treaty, which allowed President Donald Trump to withdraw. The former conducted surveillance flights on the military installations of the two countries. treaty.

Thursdays decision means that there is only one major arms control treaty between the nuclear powers-the new Disarmament Treaty will continue to exist. Trump did not take any measures to extend the new START, the agreement will expire earlier this year, but after Biden came to power, the Biden administration quickly took action to extend it for five years, and gave Trump a complaint. The revocation of the Open Skies Treaty was reviewed.

The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in January that the withdrawal of the United States from the Open Skies Treaty has greatly undermined the balance of interests of the signatories, adding that Washingtons allies coldly support Moscows proposal to maintain the treaty. [File: Susan Walsh/AP Photo]

Officials said the review has been completed and Sherman has notified Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov (Sergei Ryabkov) that the United States has decided not to return to the open skies on Thursday. These officials have no right to discuss the matter publicly and speak anonymously.

The move took place before President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Geneva, Switzerland on June 16. When the relationship has deteriorated sharply, and the relationship has fallen to its lowest point in decades, they will try to find common ground.

The Open Skies Treaty aims to build trust between Russia and the West by allowing more than 30 signatories to the agreement to conduct reconnaissance flights on each others territories to collect information about the military and activities.

Since the treaty entered into force in 2002, the treaty has conducted more than 1,500 flights to increase transparency and allow monitoring of arms control and other agreements.

The Lower House of the Russian Parliament voted to withdraw from the treaty on May 19. [File: The Federal Assembly of The Russian Federation via AP]

Trump administration announced U.S. withdrawal Starting from last years treaty, the Russian House of Commons voted last week. But until Thursday, both parties said that the treaty could still be saved. Russian officials said that if the United States does this, they are willing to reconsider withdrawing troops.

The Federal Committee of the Upper House of the Russian Parliament is expected to approve the withdrawal bill on June 2. After Putin signs the measure, it will take six months for Russia to withdraw from the bill to take effect.

However, Thursdays notice appears to mark the end of the treaty, which has received broad support from US allies in Europe and Congressional Democrats as a measure of confidence-building between former Cold War opponents.
US lawmakers called for action in Ethiopia, reports of gang rapes, ethnic cleansing and war crimes committed by Eritrean troops.

A senior U.S. official said that if civilians in the Tigri area continue to be attacked, the Biden administration is prepared to impose additional sanctions on Ethiopia and Eritrea and is reviewing whether they have committed war crimes.

Tigers violence is shocking. It shocked the conscience, US Assistant Secretary of State Robert Godec said on Thursday.

The United States calls on all parties to end the conflict, allow humanitarian access and stop human rights violations. Goldk said: If we do not see immediate progress in these areas, we will take further sanctions.

By the seventh month, the conflict in Tigri State had killed thousands and as many as 5 million people were at risk of famine. Brutality Crimes committed by the armed forces in the area.

In Tigri, Godec condemned cruel killings, sexual violence including gang rape, forced evictions, and wanton destruction of civilian property.

Goldek said that the Ethiopian and Eritrean forces have launched an uninterrupted violence and sabotage, which constitutes collective punishment for the people of Tigray.

Godec said at the U.S. Senate hearing that the Amhara regional government forces are using ethnic cleansing operations to drive Tigrayans out of their homes.

Gordonk said that the Biden administration has suspended US economic and security assistance to Ethiopia, which was previously an ally in the region and is considering new sanctions against the governments and military officials of Ethiopia and Eritrea.

Democrats and Republicans in the US Congress were shocked and condemned by what is happening in Tigley. Legislators called for an international arms embargo on participants in the conflict, with economic sanctions as the target.

The chairman of the Senate committee, Bob Menendez, said: Many of us actually believe this is a war crime and a crime against humanity.

Menendez said: When this happens in the world, we cant blindly walk away. Menendez, along with other American lawmakers, called on the Biden government to take stronger action to force the Ethiopian government to end the conflict.

The U.S. government has pledged to provide Tigray with $305 million in new humanitarian aid, and Biden has appointed the Horn of Africa special envoy Jeffrey Feltman (Jeffrey Feltman).

On May 26, President Biden (Joe Biden) Request to quit Representatives of the Eritrean and Amhara forces in Ethiopias Tigri region said that humanitarian assistance must be provided immediately to avoid widespread famine in conflict-stricken areas.

Biden said in a statement on May 26: The militants in the Tigray area should declare and insist on a ceasefire, and the Eritrean and Amhara forces should withdraw.

He said: All parties, especially Ethiopian and Eritrean forces, must allow immediate and unhindered humanitarian access to the area to prevent widespread famine.

Thousands of Ethiopians who fled the battle in Tigray are now facing famine without humanitarian assistance [File: El Tayeb Siddig/Reuters]

The UN Office of Humanitarian Affairs warned earlier this week that Ethiopia is in danger of famine Because of conflict.

According to Agence France-Presse, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Mark Lowcock said at a Security Council briefing: If the scale of aid is expanded in the next two months, there will be serious problems. Risk of famine..

Sarah Charles, assistant administrator of the United States Agency for International Development, told the Senate committee that 5 million people on the border between Tigray and Sudan need humanitarian assistance.

Charles said: The scale of demand is shocking. Armed groups have caused widespread gender-based violence. The violence is so cruel that women suffer organ damage.

US officials say the situation in Ethiopia reflects the famine in the 1980s, which killed more than 1.2 million people and displaced millions.

Goldk said: If Ethiopia continues to move forward, it will likely cause a large-scale humanitarian crisis and refugee crisis, and pose a threat to the entire region.

Goldk said: We have made it very clear that if we do not see immediate progress Ethiopia and Eritrea can look forward to further action.
The son said, Dont you want to chop it down?

An 18-year-old son who had lost a loved one apologized to Dominic Cummings, saying that the governments response to the pandemic was to no avail.

The prime ministers former adviser said that countless people have lost their lives due to the governments failure with the coronavirus.

Cummings apologized in his speech to members of Congress on Wednesday, saying that ministers, officials and advisers were far from reaching the standards they should expect in a crisis.

Family members who lost their loved ones, including their wives, sons and daughters, said hearing Cummings testimony was shocking.

18-year-old Mert Dogus told the Palestinian Authority News: I believe Cummings apologizes, but the apology will not decrease. They need to do better.
The African regional director of the United Nations health agency said that the suspension of vaccination campaigns on the African continent would lead to loss of life and loss of hope.

The World Health Organization said on Thursday that if Africans were to get the first shot in time, Africa would need at least 20 million doses of AstraZeneca in six weeks.

Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, the World Health Organizations Regional Director for Africa, said in a statement: Africa now needs vaccines.

Any pause in our vaccination campaign will result in loss of life and loss of hope.

The WHO statement emphasizes that the recommended interval of 8 to 12 weeks between dosing must be observed to ensure that recipients have an 81% prolonged protection rate.

The statement added: In addition to this urgent need, another 200 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine listed on the World Health Organizations emergency use list need to be added so that the African continent can provide 10% of its population by September 2021. Vaccine.

#Africa demand #Coronavirus disease Get vaccinated now. Any pause in our vaccination campaign will result in loss of life and loss of hope. -Doctor @MoetiTshidi WHO Africa Region (@WHOAFRO) May 27, 2021

As of May 26, Africa has registered 4.7 million cases of the coronavirus, of which nearly 130,000 have died from the virus.

In addition, the head of the African Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (African Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) called on the international community to provide Africa with the required number of vaccine doses, considering this to be a collective safety issue.

We have not won the vaccine war in Africa, said John Enkengasson, director of the African Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at a weekly news conference held in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, on Thursday.

Forty-three million doses of vaccine have been obtained, [of which] He said that 23 million doses have been taken.

Africas vaccination campaign to fight COVID-19 Also facing delays As India imposed an export ban on India, the main supplier of AstraZeneca vaccines, this is a UN-supported plan aimed at providing 2 billion doses of vaccine to the worlds 92 poorest countries this year. India has halted vaccine exports in response to the severe recovery of the disease.

Interest of all countries-Prime Minister of France

In addition, French President Emmanuel Macron stated that shipping the COVID-19 vaccine to Africa is not only a moral obligation, but also beneficial to Europe and the world to prevent new virus mutations.

Macron said in a trip to Rwanda that France is expected to provide 30 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine to Africa by the end of the year, Germany will also provide 30 million doses, and the EU will provide more than 100 doses of vaccine. 1 million doses were injected into Africa this year.

Macron said during a visit to the French Vaccination Center: Helping Africa to vaccinateFirst of all, it is the responsibility of unity. It is also very simpleIt is in the interests of all European countries and all countries in the world. Kigali was on a state visit. period.

French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech in Kigali, Rwanda [Ludovic Marin/AFP]

He said that if all countries are not vaccinated, the virus will continue to spread and develop new variants.
(KADN) - The University of Louisiana at Lafayette and SLCC have signed their most recent transfer agreement.

This signing will allow SLCC graduates to apply course credits earned toward a bachelor's degree at UL Lafayette's College of Engineering.

The agreement takes effect this coming fall semester.
Chancellor: 'The University of Kansas is rescinding its mask policy and will now make masks optional'
A Shawnee man is in the hospital following a boating accident that killed two of his children and their mother.






Position Objective: Under the direct supervision of a Maryland-licensed pharmacist and in coordination with other technicians, the Pharmacy Technician performs various support activities and duties within the Pharmacy Department by assisting in the timely preparation, packaging, distribution and delivery of medications. Delegated tasks are performed in accordance with standard written procedures, guidelines and State and Federal Regulations. Essential Job Duties: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Accurately and efficiently, and with minimal supervision, performs drug distribution, medication preparation, compounding, dose calculation, and quality assurance/improvement tasks in accordance with established Departmental procedures. Incorporates practice modifications required by patient age group. Maintains knowledge and understanding of the AAMC Department of Pharmacy standard work, policies, and procedures as established during training and validated via ongoing competency assessments. This includes, but is not limited to, timely preparation of medications for pharmacist check, workflow SOPS executed within established time constraints, use of appropriate medical terms and abbreviations, patient confidentiality, and punctuality and attendance policy compliance. Delivers medications to appropriate locations manually, via pneumatic tube, or by refilling automated dispensing cabinets. Monitors medication storage environments outside the pharmacy for appropriate conditions and regulatory compliance. Assists with unit inspections when designated. Complies with Federal, State and Department policies for controlled substance distribution and management. Follows all procedures for utilizing Secure-Send function of the pneumatic tube system, completes controlled substance self-audit reports with follow-up, and correctly maintains all controlled substance counts and paperwork. Answers phone calls and responds to med messages courteously, follows up appropriately, and maintains a professional demeanor and appearance at all times when interacting with patients, coworkers, or other members of the healthcare team. Complies with USP797 and 800 guidelines for cleanroom environmental maintenance, education, testing, record-keeping and compounding of sterile products. Demonstrates ability to perform required mathematical calculations and conversions. Understands and effectively supports the inventory management and drug distribution technology employed by the Pharmacy. Generates and accurately interprets reports from the primary hospital information system and other computer-based technology. Demonstrates unit dose repackaging capability, in compliance with department guidelines. Minimizes drug waste. Identifies cost-saving opportunities. Communicates medication needs or observed changes in utilization patterns to those in authority. Participates in all aspects of the emergency drug supply system and specialty tray maintenance. Demonstrates ability to repackage drugs appropriately. Participates in the orientation and training of new pharmacy staff, as necessary. Provides clear and accurate instructions, demonstrates the required scope of activities, and reviews the new employee's/or trainee's work for accuracy, following all department guidelines. Acts as a resource and source of support for co-workers. Identifies and/or is involved with opportunities for improvement of key Hospital/Departmental initiatives (e.g. ideas, projects, task or project lead), and contributes innovative ideas for workplace improvement. Educational/Experience Requirements: The minimum level of education and experience for this position includes: High School Diploma or equivalent.

Pharmacy experience in hospital or retail setting preferred. Required License/Certifications: National Pharmacy Technician Board Certification (PTCB) preferred

Current registration as a Pharmacy Technician or Pharmacy Intern from the Maryland Board of Pharmacy; in good standing. 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 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. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. 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.


The newest gumiho in Kdramaland finally meets the audience. tvN's fantasy-romance series "My Roommate is a Gumiho" made a good start with its pilot episode.

Lee Dam Meets Shin Woo Yeo the Nine-Tailed Fox

Shin Woo Yeo (Jang Ki Yong) is a gumiho (or nine-tailed-fox) who has been living for more than 999 years. In order to fulfill his desire to become a human, he needs to collect human energy in a bead.

But one night, he accidentally met Lee Dam (Hyeri), a university student who was struggling to calm her drunk friend, Do Jae Jin (Kim Do Wan) who was heartbroken from his ex-girlfriend. He unintentionally puked in front of Shin Woo Yeo's expensive car due to too much alcohol.

Lee Dam was dumbfounded seeing her friend wasted. She apologized to Shin Woo Yeo and promised to reimburse the damages in his car. But he refused to accept the payment after knowing that she is still a student.

She was grateful for Shin Woo Yeo's kindness and even said that he is a true angel. When she was about to pick her friend, Lee Dam accidentally tripped. Fortunately, Shin Woo Yeo was quick to catch her and everything went in slow motion.

Lee Dam accidentally pushed Shin Woo Yeo's stomach which made him release the bead in his body and passed it through Lee Dam.

The two were startled by the unexpected twist of fate. The next thing she knew, Lee Dam was already inside Shin Woo Yeo's house. He confessed what had happened last night and introduced himself as a gumiho and he needed to protect the bead in Lee Dam's body. He suggests that they should live together to monitor the bead and to take good care of Lee Dam, since there are high possibilities that she is prone to danger since she acquired the marble of the gumiho.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: So Ji Sub to Possibly Make His Drama Comeback with 'Doctor Lawyer'

Shin Woo Yeo and Lee Dam Started Living Together

After their short but intense introduction of each other, Lee Dam considered what Shin Woo Yeo had said to her. The day after they met, Lee Dam started to feel sick because of the side effects of the marble that's on her body.

She decided to look for the gumiho and told everything that had happened to her.

Shin Woo Yeo held her and said that only his touch can cure her sickness or everytime she is in pain - he only has the power to save her.

Lee Dam was convinced and packed all her things to live with the male gumiho. She even bought pepper spray for self defense. As compensation for living with him, Shin Woo Yeo offered to pay for Lee Dam's tuition fee and even bought her lots of food.

The other day, Shin Woo Yeo needs to attend a book event in Singapore for his upcoming humanities book. This means that Lee Dam will be alone for a moment, and on the same night, together with her friends, they decide to go to a club.

There she met a man born in the year of the Tiger. Earlier, it was mentioned to her by the male gumiho that once a man who was born in that year touches her, she will be miserable.

Shin Woo Yeo who was at the book event that time felt that Lee Dam was in danger and immediately teleported to save Lee Dam.

Shin Woo Yeo' felt the warmth of Lee Dam's presence, which made him startled. The two started to get to know each other more.

Have you watched "My Roommate is a Gumiho" pilot episode? What can you say about it? Don't forget to share your thoughts with us in the comments!

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news and updates, keep your tabs open here at Kdramastars.

Kdramastars owns this article.

Written by Shai Collins
Following a series of incidents aboard aircraft, including an assault that left a flight attendant with facial injuries and two missing teeth, the union representing Southwest Airlines' flight attendants is urging the company to take stronger steps to protect its members from an "epidemic of aggression and assault."

"We are asking our carrier, the government and the flying public's help in ending this epidemic of aggression and assault. Flight attendants are first responders in the sky who are focused on safety. As people return to the skies, we are asking for everyone's help in complying with flight attendant requests to help ensure a safe and fun atmosphere for all," TWU Local 556 President Lyn Montgomery said in a statement to CNN.

Montgomery said that there were 477 passenger misconduct incidents on Southwest Airlines aircraft between April 8 and May 15, in an open letter to Chief Executive Officer and Chairman Gary Kelly that was sent to union members and posted on its Facebook page.

"This unprecedented number of incidents has reached an intolerable level, with passenger non-compliance events also becoming more aggressive in nature," she wrote.

Southwest Airlines spokesman Chris Mainz said the carrier does not "condone or tolerate verbal or physical abuse of our flight crews."

On Sunday, a Southwest passenger was arrested on suspicion of felony battery causing serious injury after she allegedly struck a flight attendant during a flight from Sacramento to San Diego, according to a statement from the Port of San Diego Harbor Police Department.

"The passenger repeatedly ignored standard inflight instructions (tray table in upright position, seat belt, etc.) and became verbally and physically abusive upon landing," Mainz told CNN.

Paramedics took the flight attendant to a San Diego hospital for treatment, police said.

CNN was unable to reach the passenger for comment and it is not known if she has an attorney.

Montgomery cited Sunday's altercation in her letter and said the flight attendant had injuries to her face and lost two teeth.

Montgomery called on Southwest Airlines to make sure the flying public is aware that disruptive or violent behavior is punishable through local and federal laws and could result in a ban on flying with the airline.

"Passengers who do not comply with regulations and federal mask mandates cause disruptions to our operations and to our customers' travel plans, resulting in gate returns, flight diversions and delays," Montgomery said. "Consistency is key to this, as well: No passenger should be removed from one flight only to be permitted to board the very next Southwest Airlines flight after a non-compliance incident."

The letter also calls on Southwest Airlines leadership to call on the US government to increase the number of federal air marshals aboard aircraft.

"We understand and share the Union's concerns regarding passenger non-compliance and disruptive behavior," Mainz said. "We are partnering with the (Federal Aviation Administration) to investigate incidents so they may take appropriate actions. We will continue to work with both the FAA and the Union to preserve and protect the safety and well-being of our Flight Crews and Customers."

The Federal Aviation Administration says it has a zero-tolerance policy for unruly passenger behavior and has proposed civil fines ranging from $9,000 to $52,500 against at least 15 passengers in May.

The FAA said in a news release issued on Monday that it had received approximately 2,500 reports of unruly behavior by passengers since the beginning of the year, including about 1,900 reports of passengers refusing to comply with the federal face mask mandate.

This comes as more people are flying, as the summer holidays approach and much of the United States is easing restrictions imposed during the Covid-19 pandemic.
BIG SPRINGS, Calif.  Following recent ordinances from Siskiyou County Board of Supervisors that prohibit the transfer of water along certain county roads without a permit, ripple effects have been seen throughout the community. The emergency ordinances were passed in an effort to crack down on illegal marijuana grow operations.

We essentially have about 6,000 people that live in one particular area, Shasta Vista, said Siskiyou County Sheriff Jeremiah LaRue, What's primarily occurring there is illegal commercial cannabis.

Some of the roads included in the ordinance surround the Shasta Vista subdivision.

I think he's trying to, run everybody off, said Russell Mathis, a land owner in the Shasta Vista subdivision, kind of like they did in the early 1800s when they didn't like settlers  dam up the creek, run them out. That's basically what I think he's doing here by drying up the water. Nobody can survive.

Shortly after the ordinances were passed, the Sheriffs Office posted on Facebook, calling on businesses to stop providing supplies and services to illegal grow sites, stating that delivering supplies and providing services to illegal commercial cannabis sites in Siskiyou county is prohibited.

Some businesses in Siskiyou County, specifically ones surrounding Big Springs near the Shasta Vista subdivision, tell NewsWatch 12 that the Facebook post has fanned the flames of racism, saying they are seeing community members racially profile Asian Americans in the community because the Shasta Vista subdivision is known to have a large Asian American population.

I feel we . . . we feel pressure, but I just don't want to judge people because they come in and they're of Asian descent, said Michael Parker, an employee at a local hardware store.

Following the initial post on Facebook, the Sheriffs Office added an update, stating that the request for support from businesses pertains to stopping the delivery of supplies and providing services on-site, where it is reasonably linked to the illegal commercial cannabis activity, saying in no way does this request attempt to prevent in-person purchases at stores. The Sheriffs Office also posted a clarification with a similar statement in the comments.

Its very specific. It's not delivering pizza and it's not turning away people at the door. If they're Asian . . . that's just crazy talk, said Sheriff LaRue. That sounds racist to me that someone would even suggest that.

PART I: Siskiyou County water ordinances send ripple effect through community; legal action in process

Parker says regardless of the updated clarification on the original Facebook post, they are seeing racial profiling of the Asian American community continue.

They're scared to come in. If they go leave the parking lot, they get pulled over. If they have anything that has to do with their business, even locals that don't grow are being pulled over, said Parker.

Traffic stops are a specific concern from some community members, with some reporting that Asian Americans are being pulled over at disproportional rates.

I think they're profiling. We've seen some people get pulled over for no apparent reason that we're Asian descent, you know, it seems like it is, said Parker.

"We're not making traffic stops based upon age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation. We don't know any of that stuff. We just go off speed for example, and make traffic stops," said Sheriff LaRue, "In the Shasta Vista area we have a presence out there to monitor the water use, make sure there's no illegal water trucks that are taking groundwater from some of these farmer farmers and taking them into the grows, if you will, so we have a presence out there and we've been making quite a bit of traffic stops but that's not uncommon. Traffic stops are just a normal thing. They're always based upon some type of violation. We don't just pull people over."

NewsWatch 12 spoke with Peter Thao who is a community activist who lives in Siskiyou county but doesnt farm, or live in the Shasta Vista subdivision. He says he still feels eyes on him in the community because he is Asian.

Mentally, emotionally, psychologically, because I am part of them and they are a part of me. As an Asian, we are very family-oriented so we stick together and we help each other. Regardless of the situation, said Thao.

It's just, if you're Asian, you're connected to the community, you're connected. You're guilty. End of the story, said Russell Mathis, a land owner in the Shasta Vista subdivision.

Some comments on the Sheriffs office Facebook page have been targeted at Asian Americans in the community, with one man writing: We dont need your kind in Siskiyou county. Go back to your country.

The same man wrote more comments, saying She looks like she is from Asia. We dont need their kind in Siskiyou. The comments have since been deleted.

Sheriff LaRue says that their message is being twisted, and that comments on the Facebook post are being spun in a direction thats not true.

NewsWatch 12 asked the Sheriff about any plans to respond to reports of racism or racial profiling within the community.

Is there any plan to take action against that to either a) make sure it doesnt continue or b) prevent it from happening in the first place? asked Alicia Rubin, reporter with NewsWatch 12.

Yeah, no, that's a good question, said Sheriff LaRue, From the Sheriff's Department, we do not condone racism. Racism is horrible."

LaRue tells NewsWatch 12 that there are efforts to bring in additional community resources, including translators to help with the language barrier.

Thao says the Asian American community is open for a conversation.

We have an open-door policy to talk to the Sheriff, the Board of Supervisors, we are more than ready to talk to them, said Thao.

Right now, Thao believes the local Asian community is looking into legal action but hes not aware of any lawsuit thats been filed. NewsWatch 12 reached out to the Siskiyou County District Attorneys office to learn if there have been any discrimination-based lawsuits filed. At this time, we are still waiting for a response.

A lawyer that NewsWatch 12 spoke with, who is currently representing a Siskiyou County farmer in a battle surrounding water usage on cannabis, says the situation isnt as simple as it may appear.

I've talked with several representatives of the Hmong community, and they tell me that historically, the Hmongs, as families and groups, would just retreat into the jungle. Thats their tactic for dealing with strong central powers, is evasion, said Paul Minasian, an agricultural and water rights attorney out of California, We brought them to this country, but I wonder if they ever really accepted that as a citizen or a non-resident you were invited to the country, you get rights.

NewsWatch 12 reached out to the Siskiyou County District Attorneys office to learn if there have been any discrimination-based lawsuits filed. At this time, we are still waiting for a response.
GRANTS PASS, Ore.  A Selma man was sentenced to more than six years in prison on Tuesday after pleading guilty to charges arising from a deadly crash on Redwood Highway in August of 2019.

David Leon Remsh pleaded guilty to Manslaughter in the Second Degree, Assault in the Third Degree - DUII, and Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants. Remsh was sentenced to 75 months concurrently by judge Brandon Thueson at the Josephine County Circuit Court.

Remsh was driving on U.S. 199 in Josephine County on August 4, 2019, when he crossed the lane divider into oncoming traffic, killing 54-year-old Guy Fetty of Gold Hill, and injuring Fettys wife Anna. According to court records, Remsh was under the influence of methamphetamine when he was driving.

Remsh was airlifted to the hospital. Two passengers in his car, 31-year-old Amber Gaylord of Glendale, and 29-year-old Kali Ramsh of Grants Pass, were taken by ground ambulance.

"Your actions took away our rock. You took away Guy's chance to watch his family grow. You took away the best part of our lives, our time, and you almost killed me as well. I saw it . . . it's a miracle I survived," said Anna Fetty during the sentencing hearing.

Guy Fetty left behind his wife, eight children and 10 grandchildren.
MEDFORD, Ore.  A former Klamath Falls Police Department detective arrested in December now faces charges in federal court on allegations that he stole drugs from the agency's evidence room.

The investigation into 27-year-old detective Thomas Reif began after he crashed his unmarked police car while on duty in downtown Klamath Falls during November of 2020. Witnesses said that Reif had been driving recklessly prior to the crash, and he was discovered unresponsive in the vehicle when paramedics arrived.

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Oregon, Reif went into the KFPD temporary evidence room at the end of November and used an unauthorized key to take out methamphetamine and fentanyl. Reif allegedly left the evidence room, then brought back the items to the evidence locker before leaving the station.

"Shortly thereafter, Reif overdosed while operating his police car," the U.S. Attorney's Office said. "The car jumped a median, travelled into oncoming traffic, and caused a multiple-vehicle accident. Reif was rushed to the hospital and successfully revived by medical personnel. Toxicology reports showed that Reif was under the influence of substances including methamphetamine and fentanyl."

Investigators later searched Reif's locker at the police station, federal prosecutors said, finding a concealed evidence bag containing meth.

This week, prosecutors unsealed an indictment against Reif, charging him with two counts of possessing a controlled substance by misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, deception, or subterfuge.

Reif made his first appearance in federal court before a U.S. Magistrate Judge on Wednesday. He was arraigned and entered a plea of not guilty. He was released pending a jury trial set to begin on August 3.

"If convicted, Reif faces a maximum sentence of four years in federal prison, one year of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000," the U.S. Attorney's Office said.

This case was investigated by the FBI and Oregon State Police, with cooperation from the Klamath Falls Police Department.

In early 2019, Reif and two other KFPD officers received commendations for saving the life of a woman attempting to jump from on overpass.
GRANTS PASS, Ore.  Oregon State Police plans to step up patrols along Redwood Highway over Memorial Day weekend and throughout the summer, according to the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Crashes along Highway 199 have already claimed three lives so far this year, and state officials are trying to crack down on speeding and other unsafe driving habits along the corridor. During 2020, eight people were killed on the highway, ODOT said.

According to ODOT, police made 3,525 traffic stops between Grants Pass and the California border in the month of May 2020 through April of this year. In the seven-mile safety corridor between Cave Junction and Selma, troopers made 300 stops. More than 100 speeding tickets were issued, with fines doubled. Driving while suspended or without insurance accounted for 146 citations.

This is just a slice of what we see every day on Redwood Highway, said OSP Lt. Stephanie Bigman. Were asking that you please drive responsibly: wear your seatbelt, drive the speed limit, and dont drive drunk, drugged or distracted. Experience shows you cant afford to make a mistake on this highway.

OSP plans to again boost patrols along the highway throughout this summer, beginning with Memorial Day weekend.

The goal of the safety corridor is to encourage that people drive carefully while raising awareness of the safety risks that arise from driving too fast for the conditions, following too close and making improper lane changes, or failing to decrease speed for slow-moving vehicles.

"This holiday weekend we urge drivers to be focused and aware," said ODOT interim district manager Jeremiah Griffin. "Our families live here, so we urge others to drive like their families live here too."

ODOT said that the Illinois Valley community, including the U.S. 199 Safety Corridor Stakeholder group, requested the safety corridor. The group includes members of law enforcement, emergency medical staff, state and county road officials, and community members.

In the near future, ODOT plans to add more safety features in the area; constructing a pedestrian and bicycle bridge over Holton Creek in Kerby in 2022, and beginning a "clear zone" project in 2023 to remove obstacles along the highway shoulder.

"Many of the corridor crashes involved drivers running off the road and striking a fixed object such as a tree. The project will remove trees and either add or lengthen existing guardrail sections to provide an additional margin of safety," ODOT said.
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In a traditional line-of-duty death ceremony at Kenosha Fire Station No. 1, Kenosha firefighters said goodbye Wednesday to their colleague Samuel Wenger, who died April 28.

Wenger was 14-year veteran of the department, a firefighter and EMT working at the end of his career as an an apparatus operator  or driver  for the Med 1 ambulance based at Fire Station No. 1, 2210 52nd St.

At the ceremony, Wenger was remembered for his dedication to the job, his broad smile, his humor and his calm presence on medical calls.

Sam was a solid guy, Battalion Chief Jeff Johnson said. As an EMT, he was one of the guys who could make a paramedic look good.

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Ricardo Lebron, president of the Kenosha International Association of Firefighters Local 414, said he worked directly with Wenger for years and they had become close friends outside of work.

Sam was a self-proclaimed introvert, but thats not the Sam the citizens of Kenosha saw on calls, Lebron said. Sam was a giver. Sam cared about people. I know thats a cliche for firefighters to say, I just want to help people, but Sam did.
Hopkinsville, KY (42240)

Today

Sun and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 92F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies this evening will become partly cloudy after midnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 72F. Winds light and variable.
Xi calls on China Daily to promote exchange between China and world

Xinhua) 14:12, May 27, 2021

Photo taken on Sept. 24, 2020 shows a "flower basket" at Tian'anmen Square in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao)

BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping has called on China Daily to present a true, multi-dimensional and panoramic view of China and make new contributions to the exchange and communication between China and the world.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in a congratulatory letter on the 40th anniversary of the newspaper's launch.

In his letter, Xi extended warm and cordial greetings to all staff members, foreign experts and friends at the newspaper.

Over the past 40 years, China Daily has used its advantages to present China's reform and development, playing an important role in telling China's stories well and making China's voice heard, said Xi.

He called on China Daily to take the 40th anniversary as a new starting point, innovate its approach to better communicate with international readers, establish an all-media communication framework and build a high-caliber team, so as to expand its global influence and better introduce China's development philosophy, path and achievements.

China Daily, established on June 1, 1981, is the first national English-language daily newspaper in the People's Republic of China, serving a global audience. After 40 years, it has developed into a global, multi-language, multi-media information platform, with its newspaper circulation reaching 700,000 and the number of its multi-media product users exceeding 350 million.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Liang Jun)
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Health care systems in the United States are beginning to emerge from the devastation of the pandemic. Since the existential threat of COVID-19 first hit in March of 2020 and the waves kept rolling across the country, doctors, nurses, and other clinicians put themselves and their families at risk to save others.

Clinicians were thrown into situations for which neither they nor their institutions were prepared. Like combat, the pandemic created a VUCA environment in health care.

VUCA is an acronym from the military that describes the situation in combat. It stands for:

Volatility  the situation is changing rapidly, often more rapidly than one can absorb

Uncertainty  there is a lack of clarity about the risks, which are great

Complexity  there are a multiplicity of variables

Ambiguity  there is no right answer to any problem that develops

This unprecedented situation drove innovation in care delivery at a pace no one had previously thought possible.

Some organizations and their leaders rose to the occasion to collaborate with and protect their clinicians as much as possible. Others struggled. These challenges continue to this day.

Now, as we are beginning to recover, health care leaders are contemplating what to do next. While the immediate threats to health and safety of individuals are diminishing, the threat to health care organizations is growing.

Doctors and nurses have been through hell  and many are ready to quit.

As reported recently in the Washington Post, 3 in 10 health care workers are considering leaving the profession. Some face PTSD after dealing with the personal toll of exposure to the human tragedy of previously healthy patients suddenly struggling to breathe, their loved ones unable to be by their side while they suffer, and eventually succumb to the virus.

Other clinicians are questioning whether their sacrifice is worth it. They watch too many members of the public refuse to wear masks or get vaccinated, claiming the right of personal freedom, ultimately forcing the clinicians who are their neighbors to continue unnecessarily risking their lives while the pandemic lingers and new waves wash through our communities. Clinicians see these people as selfish while they themselves have performed so selflessly day after day.

And still, others question whether they are willing to work for the hospital or health system that did not seem to care about them. Some health system leaders rose to the occasion right along with their clinicians, giving their all. Others did not.

Too many leaders failed to respond appropriately to the needs of the moment. They failed to protect their caregivers with adequate PPE and with creative solutions to help their clinicians deal with the overwhelm:

The physical overwhelm of too much work, no time for rest or nourishment or caring for basic physical needs

The emotional overwhelm of the toll of human suffering they experienced daily with no end in sight

The personal overwhelm of fearing for the health of their families, of bringing the virus home to their spouses or children

The overwhelm of loneliness, not being able to commiserate with their colleagues after hours

Some leaders even took action against their clinicians, punishing some who complained about the lack of support they felt they needed to deal with the chaos. Many clinicians who were not practicing in hospitals were furloughed or lost their jobs altogether as health care institutions struggled with financial upheavals.

Whats next?

How should health care institutions respond to their clinicians needs and concerns? What changes will it take to stem the tide of clinicians looking to leave your hospital or medical group or to leave clinical care altogether?

This is not just an issue for the physicians caring for patients, for medical directors, chiefs of staff or chief medical officers.

This is a serious issue for those in the top leadership roles in all health care organizations  for members of boards of directors, for CEOs and for all the CEOs direct reports.

While the personal health threat of the virus is diminishing, the existential threat to health care organizations of losing their clinical workforce is growing.

Just as clinicians responded by rapidly changing and innovating how they cared for patients, health care leaders must now respond by rapidly changing and innovating how they care for their caregivers.

If you are a health care leader, what should you do?

In the heat of the pandemic, clinicians dedicated themselves to saving their patients, going above and beyond expectations, and when things were not working, innovating on the fly to meet their patients needs in extreme circumstances.

As a health care leader, you have the opportunity to be dedicated to saving your workforce, going above and beyond expectations, and innovating on the fly to meet your clinicians needs.

How do you do this? Keys to effective innovation include personally experiencing the challenges of shadowing clinicians in patient care settings, involving all stakeholders in developing solutions, maintaining rapid cycles of implementing ideas and adjusting as you learn from the outcomes, and visibly and actively leading the effort.

Here are some specific actions you can take to lead your group, whether you lead an entire health system, hospital, service line, medical group, department, or your local office:

Make your commitment to your caregivers clear  communicate this in multiple ways multiple times

Learn from your caregivers  Spend time directly with them in patient care settings, survey them so you can reach everyone and pay attention to the answers in the surveys, especially those that express anger and frustration

Make it clear to those who report to you that this is your priority, and thus it should be theirs as well  set explicit expectations that they too should be spending time directly among the clinicians, especially if they have a non-clinical role. Their work impacts clinicians in one way or another.

Invest in learning new ways to care for your caregivers  Whether that be process redesign to reduce work overload, management system redesign that clarifies caregivers needs are being addressed and change happening or both.

Move quickly  When the existential threat of the pandemic hit, health care delivery changed overnight, converting med-surgery wards into ICUs and moving 90 percent of in-office visits to telehealth in a week. Caregivers are looking for leaders who can quickly address the existential threat of burnout and PTSD.

These are extraordinary times. Leaders have the opportunity to seize the day, to lean into this turning point in health care delivery, to drive organizational transformation, and to emerge from the devastation of the pandemic with an organization in which patients and clinicians thrive.

You simply have to ask yourself, are you willing to change? Are you willing to dive into the fray and adapt to save your clinicians with the same commitment that your clinicians have demonstrated throughout the pandemic?

If you are, your organization will succeed beyond what you think is possible.

Paul DeChant is a family physician and health care consultant.

Image credit: Shutterstock.com
DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore.  The two brothers behind the proposed equestrian venue in Douglas County are trying to address concerns with the project.

At a recent county planning commission meeting, several community members raised questions about how the project will impact jobs and quality of life in the county. However, the commission gave Drew and Quinn Millegan unanimous preliminary approval for the project.

The Millegans said they hope to be transparent with the community as they move forward with plans to bring the massive competition venue to an empty property off the Metz Hill exit on Interstate 5. It would include a resort, spa, cross-country course and polo fields.

But the family's efforts to build a large equestrian facility has not been a smooth ride. This is their third attempt to bring the project to fruition over the past decade.

RELATED: RESIDENTS NEAR PROPOSED EQUESTRIAN COMPLEX RAISE CONCERNS

Looking at the fact that weve been public in a couple other sites is actually a benefit because it means we have done our homework, said Quinn.

In 2012, their father, JW Millegan, tried bringing the project to a property just west of Salem. The brothers said that failed due to a lack of investors. In 2019, the brothers said they fully took over the project while they attempted to bring it to a property in California. They said that failed because of COVID-19.

Quinn said its completely understandable why some people would be concerned about their background.

Thats a valid concern to be wondering about those other projects, he said. We were searching up and down I-5 because we needed to find the right site to go forward.

MORE: BROTHERS HOPE TO OPEN EQUESTRIAN RESORT IN DOUGLAS COUNTY

However, Drew said they are confident they will get it right this time around.

The process in Douglas County is very straightforward, he said. Were able to have all the interactions and public comment up front.

The brothers claim the project will cost $120 million, which will be paid out in five years through private investors including themselves.

Significant portions of the overall project are going to be funded by Drew and I and our own money from our own business, said Quinn.

In 2019, their father JW was hit with a 13-count indictment in federal court for tax evasion and investment fraud. However, the brothers said JW has no financial control or ownership of Pegasus Equestrian and the project is wholly theirs.

Kimberli Holmquist, who does community outreach for Community Rights Douglas County is one of the residents that strongly opposes the project.

Not only is she concerned about the agricultural impact of the project, but she said shes concerned the Millegans are not going to live up to their promises.

Its a scam, said Holmquist. Theyre hedge fund operators and they want to get as much money invested as possible.

Holmquist said shes concerned people will get hurt if they dont follow through.

Theyre getting the public excited about it going to happen, she said. But its pie in the sky stuff.

Unless someone appeals the project, the brothers will close on the property by October and start construction by next year.
COOS BAY, Ore.  Two stranded hikers were rescued from a cliff near Coos Bay by a Coast Guard helicopter on Wednesday afternoon.

The Coast Guard responded after getting a call from a woman whose daughter and husband were stranded on a cliff near Cape Arago State Park. The man had injured his ankle and needed help.

A rescue helicopter crew out of North Bend was conducting training nearby when the call came in at 2:10 p.m., and it responded to the hikers.

The two hikers were hoisted off of the cliff at about 2:30 p.m. and taken to the Bay Area Hospital, where medical staff was awaiting their arrival.

The Coast Guard reminds hikers and mariners to always carry a reliable means of communication to call for help in case of an emergency.

Here is a link to some video of the rescue.
PORTLAND, Ore.  There is a new call for Oregon's governor to end the state's mandate requiring proof of vaccination for people to enter a business without a mask on.

The Oregon Health Authority announced the mandate May 18 after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention loosened mask requirements for people who are fully vaccinated.

A conservative group called Freedom Foundation, which supports limited government, sent a letter to Gov. Kate Brown demanding that she lift the vaccine status check requirement. The letter also came with the threat of a lawsuit.

The message is very clear, she needs to rescind the order immediately, said Jason Dudash, director of the Freedom Foundation in Oregon.

He argues that requiring vaccine verification of people entering businesses and other venues, including churches, without a mask is unconstitutional and unnecessary.

Why not say this is a mistake, we apologize and we do trust that Oregonians who have all made immense sacrifices over the past year to get us to this point are not going to stop until we get over the finish line. And there is no need for this regressive policymaking, suggested Dudash.

Oregon's House Republicans are also calling on Brown to change course.

"My constituents really want the governor to allow the honor system," said Rep. Christine Drazen (R-Canby), who is House Republican Leader.

She signed the letter her side sent the governor on Tuesday, taking issue with requiring proof of vaccination.

And that is counter to White House recommendations, counter to what ACLU is recommending, counter to the CDC. It's not in line with Washington or California. We're really going our own way on this one and we really shouldn't, said Drazan.

KGW has found many businesses aren't following Oregon's rules anyway. That includes some heavy hitters like Costco and Walmart.

KGW talked to Brown about this on Monday, asking if there were penalties for not following the mandate.

"Well certainly Oregon OSHA has the ability to enforce the law but right now I think we should be focused on getting our vaccination rates, said Brown.

Oregon OSHA told KGW on Wednesday that they've not issued any citations or fines yet.

But it doesn't sound like Brown is backing down on the mandate itself.

The governors deputy press secretary Charles Boyle issued a statement Wednesday which said in part, Oregon's guidance was meant to give businesses options in reacting to the CDC's announcement, and to give them a choice between implementing new verification procedures, or keeping their current health and safety measures in place. The majority of businesses are choosing to continue requiring masks."

Brown has talked about refining the state's approach. Those who oppose the policy want something more to be done, and that includes Dudash.

We're going to hopefully give her a week," he said. "I think that it's very likely that she will rescind this mandate. She's entirely alone.
EUGENE, Ore.  Motivated by loosened restrictions and a year of pandemic lockdowns, this Memorial Day weekend is expected to be a busy one for travelers.

Oregons Office of Emergency Management is urging travelers to plan ahead, add travel time and expect delays as people fly, ride or drive to various destinations.

According to AAA, traffic rates are almost back to normal. An estimated 485,000 Oregonians are planning a trip to kick off summer, the vast of majority of which plan to drive to their destination.

Various construction projects could make for some travel headaches, although the Oregon Department of Transportation said its pausing roadwork from Friday through Tuesday morning to help ease traffic and avoid crashes. Debris cleanup from fires is also underway, but this will also be paused.

We know that traffic delays can be frustrating and difficult to navigate. To help ease congestion this holiday weekend, hazard tree and debris removal operations will pause work on ODOTs highways from noon on Friday, May 28 until Wednesday, June 2, said Mac Lynde, ODOTs Delivery and Operations deputy division ddministrator and lead for the Debris Management Task Force.

You can also check road conditions statewide on tripcheck.com or view a map of current ODOT projects here.
By Benjamin Jumbe

Uganda Airlines is set to make its maiden flight to South Africas capital Johannesburg.

This has been revealed by the deputy CEO of the Uganda Tourism Board Bradford Ochieng during a media briefing in Kampala the national carrier is rocked with reports of corruption.

He says the flight to be launched on Monday will also enhance connectivity to and from the airlines current network which includes Nairobi , Dares salaam , Kinshasa Juba, Mogadishu Bujumbura , Zanzibar , Mombasa and Kilimanjaro.

Ochieng also says as UTB, they are equally interested in ensuring proper management of the national carrier and welcome ongoing investigations into the alleged corruption at the company.

According to Uganda airlines, the national carrier will star t with four weekly flights to Johannesburg with days and times carefully selected to match travelers convenience and connectivity.
I-90 Division St. 49* North Division St. at I-90 3rd & Washington 3rd & Maple I-90 at Jefferson St. I-90 Arthur St. I-90 Hamilton St. I-90 Freya St. I-90 Havana St. I-90 Fancher Rd. I-90 Sprague Ave. I-90 Broadway Ave. I-90 Park Rd. I-90 Argonne Rd. I-90 Pines Rd. I-90 Evergreen Rd. I-90 Sullivan Rd. SR290 (Trent)& Hamilton 18th Ave. & Ray St. T.J. Meenach Bridge I-90 & US 2 Interchange US2 Fairchild looking east US2 Fairchild looking west Little Spokane River on SR 395 US2 at Farwell I-90 at Liberty Lake Snoqualmie Pass at Hyak looking west Stevens Pass at summit Lookout Pass US-195 at Spangle US-195 at Colfax US-195 at Uniontown US395 Colville-Birch US395 Colville-Canning US395 at Little Spokane River US-2 in Wenatchee WA: Richland Wye ST 240 WA: Ritzville WA: Tri-Cities Blue Bridge WA: Tri-Cities I-82 at I-182 WA: Vantage I-90 WA:Walla Walla OR: Arlington I-84 OR: Cascade Locks I-84 OR: The Dalles, I-84 OR: Deadman's Pass I-84 OR: Pendleton I-84
As we approach the first anniversary of Chinas suspension of Irish beef imports, Kilkenny ICMSA has requested a renewed effort towards a full reopening of that market.



Denis Drennan, Chair of Kilkenny ICMSA, said that farmers and processors alike wanted to know how much progress had been made towards the full reopening that he said is categorically required.



Next week marks a full year since the Chinese Government suspended beef imports from Ireland due to an atypical BSE case in a 14-year old animal, said Mr Drennan, whose farm is at Dunbell.

At the time, and on several occasions since, we have been assured that the matter is progressing towards resolution and the re-opening that Irelands beef sector requires.



ICMSA does not think anyone can accuse farmers of being impatient on this question, but, at this stage, we think that an update is required and farmers need to hear from the Departments and Agencies concerned where the negotiations are at, and when we can expect the Chinese market to be reopened to Irish beef?



The Kilkenny ICMSA spokesperson stressed that local farmers understood that, where talks are ongoing, it is difficult to be exact in terms of a reopening.



But Mr Drennan was confident that it should be possible to supply some picture of how matters were proceeding and when, approximately, the Irish sector could expect matters to be brought to a successful conclusion.

Wed like to know because we need to know. We see this market reopening as a matter of priority, he concluded.
Around 30% of people who are currently remote working are interested in developing their own business, according to a new study of 904 remote workers in this region carried out by the South-East local authorities and their Local Enterprise Offices, in partnership with Enterprise Ireland and the Ireland South East Development Office.

In Kilkenny, responders were highly educated with over 40% indicating degree qualification, and a further 36% at Master or post graduate level. Kilkenny offers a vibrant city life and equally offers the options of rural living, with little commuting time into the city hubs. This can be particularly attractive for remote workers returning from urban cities abroad.

A strong start-up economy is absolutely vital to the future of Irelands regions and we look forward to working with the Local Enterprise Offices to support these individuals in realising their business vision," says Enterprise Ireland regional director Martin Corkery.

The South-East has become a prime nurturing environment for start-up activity with many examples of indigenous entrepreneurs inspiring others from across the country that they too can start and scale successfully in the South-East.

The study reveals almost three in four remote workers surveyed in the South East are saving at least an hour a day, and 24% are saving at least three hours a day, by remote working.

The South-East provides many unique options for remote workers depending on their needs and tops the poll when it comes to offering work / life balance," said Kathleen Holohan, Chief Executive of Carlow County Council.

"The South East region offers lower housing and childcare costs, rural/coastal lifestyles with great transport infrastructure."

"Most businesses, individuals and households have been affected significantly by a change of working conditions since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic. As we look with hope towards the re-opening of our country and economy this study has given clear insights into the opportunity for remote workers in the South East through the development of a hub network supported by Enterprise Ireland , the South East Local Enterprise Office network and the South East Development Office. It also demonstrated the opportunity to provide start-up supports and training to these individuals that will foster a thriving start-up culture in the region."

The key findings of the survey include:

The South East has an opportunity to be a hub for new innovative start-up supports for the new remote worker community as over 30% of respondents are interested in starting or developing their own business.

The South East has an opportunity to work with the current hubs in the various strategic locations and develop new solutions for remote working and enterprise development.

The development of hybrid working models will accelerate the achievement of the green agenda for the South East with the potential for significantly less people commuting than in the pre-Covid Era.

"The South-East region has numerous advantages to offer when it comes to remote working and this study provides a solid foundation to guide future policy development and implementation to the benefit of all remote workers in the South East," says Alan Quirke, Director, Ireland South East Development Office.

This includes, for example, the benefit remote working provides for the green economy through the reduction of commuting time which can also attract more remote workers by providing an improved work / life balance which in turn would bring a renewed vitality to the region.

Remote working offers employers a wider choice in facilitating the right person to work for their organisation from a location of their choice. This trend presents an opportunity for the South Easts Towns and Villages to market themselves as an attractive place to live.
Aoife Banks has been appointed as the third curator of the Emerging Curator in Residence Programme.

This programme will enable Aoife to gain direct experience in the field of curating exhibitions with Kilkenny County Council Arts Office. Three exhibitions or projects in total will be organised, providing Aoife with the platform to further develop her career, expand her artistic and creative networks and to avail of a mentoring programme.

Aoife is delighted to have been selected and is looking forward to engaging with the diverse communities and rich culture of Kilkenny and curating a series of exhibitions that speak to our current sociocultural climate

This programme will also enhance the cultural vibrancy of Kilkenny by showcasing the works of Kilkenny artists and that of artists from across Ireland. An outreach programme will coincide with each exhibition, seeking to involve communities in Kilkenny.

Aoife is an independent curator and arts manager. Her curatorial practice explores contemporary visual cultures through a queer and decolonial praxis. She was a recipient of Pallas Projects Artist Initiated Award in 2018. She has curated multiple exhibitions and managed public engagement programmes for cultural institutions in Dublin. Aoife received her joint BA in Fine Art and Visual Culture in 2018 and MFA in Visual Culture, Art in the Contemporary World, in 2020 at the National College of Art and Design.

We are looking forward to working with Aoife for the three exhibitions and associated activities that will materialise over the coming months and to working with new artists, said Arts Officer, Mary Butler.

We also look forward to embracing new audiences and participants throughout the programme and encourage everyone to keep an eye out for the exciting exhibitions that will take place this year.

For more see the Arts Office Facebook page and Instagram
Sadaka, Trocaire, Christian Aid Ireland and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) have welcomed the passing of a motion in Dail Eireann yesterday declaring that Israels settlement activity in the West Bank represents the unlawful de facto annexation of Palestinian land.

The motion also noted that annexation of territory by force is a violation of a fundamental principle of international law. The groups said the passing of the motion is a meaningful and decisive statement from Irelands parliament demonstrating its commitment to international law.

"It sends a strong signal to the international community that Ireland is no longer willing to accept the status quo and that the root causes of violence and injustice must be tackled," they said in a statement.

"We have worked tirelessly, over several months, and with the invaluable support of Senator Frances Black, as well as government and opposition parties, to forge a legislative response in Ireland to the injustices faced by the Palestinian people. We have focused on Israels grave breaches of international law through its constant settlement-building, evictions and home demolitions."

"This motion, which condemns the annexation by Israel of East Jerusalem and its settlement activity there and in the West Bank, is very significant as it calls out Israels actions as de facto annexation. We would hope and expect other parliaments to follow Irelands lead in this condemnation and in calling Israel to account."

It is essential that strong measures are taken against Israel to enable the Palestinian people to fulfil their right to self-determination and freedom. We are also grateful to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney, and to the proposer of the original motion, John Brady TD, for their assistance and to those of all parties who spoke in favour, and supported it, in the Dail this week.

Speaking on the passing of the motion, Senator Frances Black said:

I am so grateful and proud that Ireland is now the first EU state to recognise Israeli settlements in Palestinian territory as de facto annexation. I commend the Irish government and opposition parties for coming together to support this very significant motion. My hope is that the international community will adopt the same position as Ireland. I also believe the next step is to fulfil our duties under international law and to enact the Occupied Territories Bill.

Caoimhe de Barra, CEO, Trocaire said: This motion is historic, as Ireland is the first EU country to call out Israels settlement activity for what it is - the annexation of Palestinian land. Given the EU remains divided in its willingness to censure Israels human rights violations, unilateral action like this is essential. We urge Ireland now to go further and become the first EU country to ban trade with those settlements by enacting the Occupied Territories Bill.
The likelihood that the earth's average temperature will at least temporarily breach a crucial tipping point is rising, according to the world's leading weather and climate organization.

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said Thursday there is now about a 40% chance that the annual average global temperature will temporarily reach 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels in at least one of the next five years.

It added that the chances of the threshold being breached are increasing with time.

The 1.5-degree marker has been identified by the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) as a key tipping point beyond which the risk of extreme drought, wildfires, floods and food shortages will increase dramatically.

"These are more than just statistics," Petteri Taalas, WMO's secretary-general, said in a statement. "Increasing temperatures mean more melting ice, higher sea levels, more heatwaves and other extreme weather, and greater impacts on food security, health, the environment and sustainable development."

By signing the Paris Climate deal, countries around the world agreed to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees above pre-industrial temperatures. Even better, the deal said, would be to keep the global temperature increase below 1.5 degrees.

But the world is now already two-thirds of the way to breaching the tipping point. The WMO said the annual average temperature is likely to be at least 1 degree warmer than pre-industrial levels in each of the coming five years, and very likely to be within the range of 0.9 to 1.8 degrees.

It added that 2020 was one of the three warmest years on record and that the global average temperature was 1.2 degrees above the pre-industrial baseline.

The organization said that there was a 90% chance that at least one year between 2021 and 2025 will become the warmest on record, surpassing 2016 in the top ranking, according to the Global Annual to Decadal Climate Update, produced by the UK's Met Office, the WMO lead center for such predictions.

It's all the more reason to take urgent action on climate change, according to Taalas.

"We are getting measurably and inexorably closer to the lower target of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change," he said. "The world needs to fast-track commitments to slash greenhouse gas emissions and achieve carbon neutrality."

The IPCC reported that to reach the Paris goal, global greenhouse gas emissions must reach net zero by 2050. Many countries have pledged to become carbon neutral by the middle of the century and several of the world's biggest economies, including the US, the EU, the UK and Canada, have recently upgraded their short-term emission cutting targets.

However, the UN has warned the details on how they are planning to get there remain vague.
MASON CITY, Iowa - One person was injured Wednesday night in a shooting on 6th St. NW.

Mason City police said a 19-year-old male arrived at the hospital by private vehicle with a gunshot wound to his arm.

He was shot in the zero block of 6th St. NW just before 10 p.m.

Police said the suspect fired the gun from a vehicle when the victim and another man were in the 600 block of N. Enterprise alley.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police.




The Installation Technician will perform basic and moderately advanced installations, disconnects and service changes for residential and business customers for ImOn Communications. Perform basic troubleshooting and repair for services from tap to consumer's electronic devices (TV, VCR, Modem, phone, etc.). Essential Job Responsibilities Perform installations, troubleshoot and repair ImOn Communications services including set top box return from the tap to the connection of the customers equipment for single and multi-family dwellings including, as appropriate, all necessary wiring (interior and exterior) and hardware; install, troubleshoot and repair drops from tap to cable modem

Educate customer on proper use of services

Determine acceptability of service by using diagnostic software, performance testing tools or other appropriate methods of testing service; identify and repair leakage from the tap to the customers equipment.

Perform connects (new connects and reconnects), disconnects (requested and non-pays), upgrades, downgrades, and relocates; install additional outlets, and install or remove ImOn equipment; connect various options available with customers equipment per Company policy(s).

Assure proper signal levels and picture quality on all television sets, and clean the premises of all debris and materials after the installation is complete

Monitor and record system, drop and in house leakage; maintain records including daily longs, gas sheets, etc. as required; properly record all required information on work orders, surveys, referrals, etc.

Promote cable, Internet, and other Company services; educate the customer on channel lineups, proper equipment usage, and other services that are available; represent Company as needed to collect payments and secure appropriate customer signatures; relay customer feedback

Comply with all safety policies, practices and procedures.

Participate in proactive team efforts to achieve departmental and company goals.

Provide leadership to others though example and sharing of knowledge/skills.

Routine and other maintenance on company provided truck

Keep company provided truck clean

Report any damages to company provided truck.

Company provided tools are issued to employee and if lost damage or stolen need to be reported immediately for replacement.

Perform additional duties as assigned. Requirements Core Competencies Attention to Detail

Customer Focus:

Relationship Management:

Conflict Management: Planning, Prioritizing, and Goal Setting:

Collaboration Skills,

Communication Proficiency

Decision Making

Learning Orientation

Personal Effectiveness/ Credibility

Problem Solving/ Analysis

Teamwork Orientation

Technical Capacity Required Experience, Training, and Special Qualifications High School Diploma or equivalent.

NCTI or SCTE certification preferred.

Valid Iowa Drivers License with a driving record that allows for you to be insured by ImOns insurance carrier. Essential Physical Abilities Requires the following with or without reasonable accommodation: Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing which permits the employee to communicate effectively.

Sufficient vision which permits the employee to operate equipment and tools.

Sufficient manual dexterity and personal mobility which permits employee to operate equipment.

Capable to carry, climb and operate extension ladder, (approx. 28 ft high and 75+ pounds).

Must accommodate various working conditions such as: Poorly ventilated areas such as attics during extreme heat, dust, dirt, noise, insects, cleaning solution; work outdoors in all kinds of weather and at all times of the day or night; work near power lines and electricity.

Capable to climb poles using gaffs, hooks and climbing belt as needed

Vision ability: close vision, peripheral vision, and ability to adjust focus.

Ability to make cable connections in tight spaces by bending, reaching, twisting.

Ability to walk over all types of terrain in all kinds of weather while carrying 75+ pounds including tools and equipment, gaffs, ladders, and fully loaded tool belts.

Ability to work while standing 50 - 70% of the time.

Employees must be able to use required personal protective equipment to adhere to safety requirements.

Employees in this position must weigh within the safety weight requirements (250lbs without tools) to safely operate company ladders and bucket trucks which are essential to this position.

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MASON CITY, Iowa - A Mason City man is being held on $40,000 bond after he was arrested on multiple drug charges.

George Higgins, 24, was arrested Wednesday in connection to a search warrant that was served July 23 in the 1600 block of 6th Pl. SE.

Authorities said Higgings was in possession of LSD (more than 10 dosage units), ecstasy, marijuana and an unloaded handgun.

He's facing charges of controlled substance violations, failure to affix a tax stamp and possession of drug paraphernalia.
ALBERT LEA, Minn.  A Missouri man allegedly caught with cocaine, marijuana, and Ecstasy in southern Minnesota is pleading not guilty.

Anthony Terrell Sanders, 19 of Kansas City, MO, was arrested on April 18, 2021, in Freeborn County. Albert Lea police say Sanders was pulled over for speeding a little before midnight and an officer noticed the smell of marijuana coming from Sanders vehicle.

Court documents say after a check found Sanders drivers license suspended in Missouri, a search of his vehicle found 38.87 grams of marijuana, 31.45 grams of cocaine, 117 Ecstasy tablets, and $2,675 in cash, mostly in hundred dollar bills.

Sanders has pleaded not guilty to two counts of second-degree drug possession, misdemeanor marijuana possession, and not having a Minnesota drivers license. His trial is scheduled to begin on February 1, 2022.
ROCHESTER, Minn.- Protecting pedestrians is the focus of a new plan MnDOT unveiled on Monday. The agency issued a news release summarizing its new statewide pedestrian system.

"It's a great opportunity and it comes out of a persistent challenge," said MnDOT Prinicipal Planner Jake Rueter. "We have a responsibility to make sure folks trying to get from one place to another can do so safely."

The plan is aimed at making walking safer and easier for people crossing highways. It also follows an increasing pattern of pedestrian fatalities since 2015. But there are more benefits to it.

"We know that people are healthier when we can get them out walking for trips. We know that kids perform better in school when they can walk to school," explained Rueter. "There's a lot of things we can do for our communities by making walking safer all throughout the state."

MnDOT so far has installed three pedestrian safety demonstration projects across Minnesota this year. They are in Beaver Bay, Blooming Praire, and Moorhead.
CLEAR LAKE, Iowa - Stretch your legs and get limber!

After being pushed back to September last year due to the pandemic, the TRI Clear Lake triathlon returns this Saturday morning. The event kicks off at 7:30 with the Olympic race, followed by the Sprint race. Athletes start with a swim from Clear Lake city beach, followed by a 1 or 2 loop bike course along South Shore Drive, and a 3 or 6 mile run along North Shore Drive.

Since the start of the TRI in 2017, the event has been growing in participants; this year's registration was capped at 550 people in order to grow the race naturally, with a possibility to expand the registration to more participants next year. Because of this growth, Clear Lake Chamber President and CEO Stacy Doughan, who is participating in this year's event, has seen the TRI become one of the premier events of its kind in the Midwest.

"Over 65% of our athletes travel over 90 miles to come and race this race. They're coming from Kansas City, Omaha, Chicago, Minneapolis and Des Moines, and exploring all what Clear Lake has to offer when maybe they would've otherwise never have come here."

In addition, the triathlon has pumped some extra money into the local economy.

"Every triathlete, on average, brings two spectators with them. They stay at our hotels, they eat at our restaurants, they shop our stores. It's a great tourist and economic impact, beyond just being a really fun activity to watch."

As part of the bike portion of the triathlon, South Shore Drive from Main Avenue to 27th Avenue South will be closed from 7:30-10:30 a.m. on Saturday. Doughan advises drivers to be aware and slow down for racers along both North and South Shore.
PRIMGHAR, Iowa (AP)  An Iowa woman accused of helping the parents of a slain infant invent a story to cover up the baby's injuries has pleaded not guilty to being an accessory.

The Sioux City Journal reports that 49-year-old Stacie Hurlburt, of Sheldon, pleaded not guilty Wednesday to two counts of accessory after the fact.

Police say Hurlburt collaborated with 20-year-old Lawrence Ruotolo Jr. and 21-year-old Brittanee Baker to tell authorities that the 5-month-old girl had been hurt last July by a lamp knocked over by cats in their home.

Prosecutors say what really happened was that Ruotolo injured the baby on July 26 when she wouldn't stop crying.

The baby died several days later. Ruotolo and Baker have each pleaded not guilty to two counts of child endangerment.


Description Center for Science and Democracy Union of Concerned Scientists Washington D.C, Cambridge, MA, Oakland, CA The Position The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is an independent national nonprofit that uses science to protect our health, safety, and environment. We are scientists, engineers, economists, activists and everyday people who develop and advocate for innovative, practical solutions to some of our planet's most pressing problems-from combating global warming and developing sustainable ways to feed, power, and transport ourselves, to fighting misinformation, advancing racial equity, and reducing the threat of nuclear war. The Center for Science and Democracy (CSD) at UCS advocates for the role of independent science and civic participation in public policy. We work on a wide range of issues including scientific integrity, environmental justice, chemical safety, democracy reform and regulatory policy. We also strive to build a movement of scientist activists to advocate for science-based public policies that are just, equitable and protective of public health, safety, and the environment for all people. We do this through the UCS Science Network, which is home to thousands of scientists, engineers, economists, public health specialists, and other experts throughout the country who want to put their knowledge to work in protecting our health, safety, and environment. Responsibilities Design, implement, and evaluate campaign engagement strategies that advance policy change on issues of environmental justice, democracy reform, and equitable public health and safety protections.

Develop online and offline grassroots and grasstops organizing strategies and tactics to cultivate activists, scientists, and partners towards our change-making goals. This includes leadership development and dynamic action opportunities that cultivate advocates who share our equity values and supporting their ability to take ownership of local engagement on CSD campaigns, tailored to their state or region.

Foster and manage collaborations to work closely with both national coalition and local partners in targeted locations that harnesses our unique strengths to build collective power for campaign goals and take the lead from those on the frontlines. Lead efforts to build partnerships with Latinx advocacy groups with shared issue interests, and develop bilingual products, tools, and engagement opportunities directly responsive to partners' needs.

Lead our evolving approach to cultivation, training, and leadership development that fosters scientists as advocates, partners, and local leaders to help grow the movement for equity-grounded scientist activism.

Create engagement and political education materials that inspire and guide action on our campaigns and in support of our partners, including action alert emails, fact sheets, talking points, social media content, and action guides.

Work closely with a team of research, policy, and communications efforts that harnesses the collective strength of the diversity of perspectives and expertise towards our campaign impact.

Help sustain the CSD Organizing Team's culture of collaboration, creativity, and collective growth by actively participating in opportunities for learning and critical reflection on our work and impact, integration of our values in our practices, and support of one another's development as organizers.



Requirements Qualifications and Experience Position requires five to seven years of relevant and comparable experience in an outreach, organizing, campaign, or advocacy position. Ability to conceive, plan, and implement effective campaigns and initiatives to develop advocate leaders is a must. Advocacy experience and experience building and maintaining relationships with key constituencies such as scientists, policymakers, and grassroots activists, with an emphasis on racial/social justice organizations is strongly preferred. Strong written and oral communication skills, and personnel/team management skills, are also required, including a commitment to transparency and inclusivity. The ability to work independently, balance a multitude of tasks, and collaborate as a member of a multidisciplinary team is essential. Fluency in the Spanish language essential. Little or no exertion required. May spend extended periods at computer. Some travel required. UCS is an equal opportunity employer actively seeking to diversify its staff. In particular, we're dedicated to broadening opportunities for individuals from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences and in environmental advocacy. We're also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive. We believe the inclusion of culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities.



Benefits Details: This is a full-time position based in UCS's Washington, DC or Cambridge, MA offices. For those who meet all position requirements, the salary is around $61,950. UCS offers excellent benefits and a rewarding work environment. Information about the organization is available at http://www.ucsusa.org. Comparable training and/or experience can be substituted for degrees when appropriate. More about the team: Our team is made up of a dedicated group of researchers, scientists, communicators, campaigners, and advocates from wide-ranging backgrounds and experiences. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and a collaborative and supportive work environment where all staff can thrive. We continually strive to create an environment which is a welcoming place for the LGBTQ+ community, people of color, parents, empty-nesters, and people with a wide variety of interests and backgrounds. A note on the pandemic: During the coronavirus pandemic our staff are working from home. We will resume working from our offices, travel, and in-person meetings when it is safe to do so. To Apply: We know there are great candidates who won't check all of these boxes, and we also know you might bring important skills that we haven't considered. If that's you, don't hesitate to apply and tell us about yourself. Please upload a cover letter and resume. In the cover letter, please confirm that the listed salary meets your expectations. Upload materials in Word or PDF format only. No phone calls, please. Deadline: June 18 or until filled.


GRANDVIEW, Mo. (AP)  A 17-year-old who was fatally shot by police in Missouri after confronting officers was holding a BB gun, authorities said.

Michael Mansur, a spokesman for the Jackson County prosecutors office, said Friday that the teen had a Glock 19 BB pistol equipped with a slide that reportedly looked like a firearm, the Kansas City Star reported.

Lantz Stephenson Jr., of Grandview, was shot May 16 at a park in the Kansas City suburb of Grandview, and died later that day at a hospital, the Missouri State Highway Patrol said.

The highway patrol had said shortly after the shooting said investigators recovered a type of handgun from the scene. On Friday, patrol spokesman Sgt. Andy Bell, told the newspaper that We stand by our original statement, the Patrol investigators recovered a type of handgun at the scene.

Stephenson told dispatchers that he was armed with a gun and wanted to confront police officers, Bell said. The BB gun he carried uses air pressure to fire small metal balls.

Three officers responded to the call. The teen then aggressively approached officers with a gun, the highway patrol reported. Two of the officers fired shots at him.

The investigation is ongoing.
Tyler Terry & Adrienne Simpson were identified as the two suspects believed to have fatally shot Barbara Goodkin and Sergie Zacharev.
(KOVR)  Three bystanders took down a suspect after he tackled a Modesto, California police officer to the ground.
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Kokomo, IN (46901)

Today

Mixed clouds and sun this morning. Scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 92F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

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Partly to mostly cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms during the evening. Low 67F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.


Occidental Chemical Corporation (OxyChem) is a leading North American manufacturer of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resins, chlorine and caustic soda  key building blocks for a variety of indispensable products such as plastics, pharmaceuticals and water treatment chemicals. Other OxyChem products include caustic potash, chlorinated organics, sodium silicates, chlo rinated isocyanurates and calcium chloride. OxyChems market position is among the top three producers in the United States in 2017 for the principal products it manufactures and markets. Based in Dallas, Texas, the company has manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Canada and Latin America. We are looking for an experienced and self-motivated individual to fill the position of Mainte nance Supervisor at our facility located in Wichita Kansas. Maintenance Supervisor (Req. # 00024433) Qualifications High School Diploma or GED.

Five plus years practical maintenance or production experience in manufacturing environment which includes a good working knowledge of equipment, materials, techniques, and safeguards in respective discipline for maintenance and construction.

manufacturing environment which includes a good working knowledge of equipment, materials, techniques, and safeguards in respective discipline for maintenance and construction. High proficiency in Microsoft applications (such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook) and good working knowledge of SAP.

Outlook) and good working knowledge of SAP. Must be able to respond to off hour emergencies.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Ability to read, write and speak in English

Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to work as part of a team.

Ability to work weekends, holidays and respond to callouts on a non-routine basis. Please apply on-line at www.oxy.com/careers. Click on Available Positions and apply to the appropriate position. Occidental is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, political preference, sexual orientation, gender identity, national ori gin, protected veteran status, or disability status.

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Hong Nam-ki Kevin Sneader

The Korea Times will host the Global ESG Forum "ESG, Strategy for Survival" at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) building in Seoul, June 10.

The event, designed to highlight the importance of ESG (environmental, social and corporate governance) and help Korean companies fulfill their ESG pledges, has been jointly planned with global consulting firm McKinsey & Company in cooperation with the Ministry of Economy and Finance.

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki will give an opening speech on the Korean government's ESG strategies for sustainable growth, followed by McKinsey Global Managing Partner Kevin Sneader, who will speak on ESG's value and its emergence as a trend in the post-COVID-19 era.

Two panel discussions will be conducted via a hybrid online-offline format, moderated by Institute for Global Economics Chairman Jun Kwang-woo and American Chamber of Commerce in Korea Chairman James Kim.

The panelists will include chief executives from ESG powerhouses  KB Financial Group Chairman Yoon Jong-kyoo, National Pension Service Chairman Kim Yong-jin and KCCI Executive Vice Chairman Woo Tae-hee  and global experts. These will include BlackRock Investment Stewardship Team Director Won Shin-bo, MSCI APAC ESG Client Coverage Head Chitra Hepburn, Carlyle Global Head of Impact Megan Starr and BNP Paribas Asset Management APAC CEO Steven Billiet.

To abide by government quarantine rules, a minimum number of speakers and guests will participate in person and foreign speakers will join the forum virtually.
From left, Industry and Trade Minister Moon Sung-wook, Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong and Health Minister Kwon Deok-cheol enter a briefing room of the foreign ministry in Seoul, Tuesday, for an online joint briefing on the results of last week's summit between President Moon Jae-in and U.S. President Joe Biden. Yonhap



By Kang Seung-woo



The government has stepped up efforts to prevent any fallout from President Moon Jae-in's summit with U.S. President Joe Biden adversely affecting South Korea's ties with China, with the foreign minister saying their post-summit statement touching on Taiwan was "theoretical and principled."



President Moon and his U.S. counterpart held their first in-person meeting at the White House last week and their joint statement referred to the importance of preserving peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. It also referred to freedom of navigation and overflights in the South China Sea and beyond.



Despite not directly mentioning China, it was seen as a sign that South Korea agreed with the U.S.'s anti-China campaign, and this drew a strong response from Beijing.



"The joint statement mentioned issues related to Taiwan and the South China Sea. The Taiwan question is China's internal affair. It bears on China's sovereignty and territorial integrity and allows no interference by external forces. We urge the relevant countries to speak and act prudentially on the Taiwan question and refrain from playing with fire," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said during a briefing, Monday.



"With regard to the South China Sea issue, all countries enjoy the freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea in accordance with international law, and there is no problem with it. Relevant countries know this very clearly."



In response, Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong said the South Korean government fully recognized the special characteristics of the China-Taiwan relations.



"The government's position on the issue remains unchanged," Chung said during a joint ministerial briefing on the Moon-Biden summit at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tuesday.



"But the reference to the Taiwan Strait was on a theoretical and principled level. I am once again telling you that peace and stability are a common wish for regional partners."



The joint statement also brought up the human rights situation in North Korea, but failed to mention that of China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.



"Although China's human rights issue has been discussed by the international community, the South Korean government has refrained from taking issue with it, considering our special ties with Beijing," the foreign minister said.



In the wake of China's strong response to the joint statement, there is growing speculation that the Chinese government may again inflict economic retaliation against South Korea as it did when Seoul permitted the deployment of a U.S. Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery on the Korean Peninsula. Beijing claims that the anti-missile shield is aimed at spying on its military maneuvers and hurting its security interests.





Chinese Ambassador Xing Haiming delivers a congratulatory speech at a seminar on 100 years of China's Communist Party and China's development in Seoul, Monday. Courtesy of Chinese Embassy to Korea




Joint military drills are a key measure to ensure the readiness of South Korean and U.S. forces, a Pentagon spokesman said Wednesday, even as the pandemic has thrown the timetable out the window.







The spokesman noted the scope and timing of future exercises will be determined through close consultation between the two allies.







"Military readiness is a top priority of the Secretary of Defense. Our combined military training events are a principal method of ensuring our combined Alliance readiness," Lt. Col. Martin Meiners told Yonhap News Agency in an email.







South Korean President Moon Jae-in on Wednesday (Seoul time) noted a field exercise may be unlikely for the combined forces of South Korea and the United States in the near future due to the COVID-19 pandemic.







"I believe it may be difficult for a large number of troops to undergo a field exercise like in the past due to current conditions," Moon said while meeting with the heads of five largest political parties in South Korea on the outcome of his meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden in Washington last week.







Seoul and Washington last held a joint military exercise in March, but it was largely virtual due to the pandemic. Their regular joint military drills have largely remained computer-simulated desktop exercises since the start of the pandemic last year.







North Korea, however, continues to strongly denounce the joint military exercises as war rehearsals.



The allies have another regular joint military drill scheduled to start in August.







"These training events are non-provocative, defensive in nature, and are intended to maintain alliance readiness to ensure we are ready to 'fight tonight,' the Defense Department spokesman said, using the slogan for U.S forces in Korea. "Any decision on the scope, scale, and timing of exercises will be made bilaterally with these factors in mind."







The United States has some 28,500 troops stationed in South Korea. (Yonhap)


Rep. Lee Kwang-jae, a three-term lawmaker of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea who was a close aide to former President Roh Moo-hyun, speaks during a ceremony to declare his presidential bid at the Korea Federation of SMEs on Yeouido, Seoul, Thursday. Yonhap



By Jung Da-min



Rep. Lee Kwang-jae, a three-term lawmaker of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), has officially declared his bid for the March 2022 presidential election.



In a ceremony announcing his presidential bid at the Korea Federation of SMEs on Seoul's Yeouido, Thursday, the 56-year-old politician, who is well-known for his close ties to former President Roh Moo-hyun, said he was the right person to lead the generational shift in the country's politics as the next president.



"We need a political revolution in which a shift in the times, generation and players takes place," Lee said during the ceremony. "We must learn from the history of innovation: former President Kim Dae-jung pioneered the era of venture capital and the IT economy; former President Roh Moo-hyun opened an era of balanced regional development and set up the vision of Korea becoming an open trade state; President Moon Jae-in is opening the era of the Korean New Deal."



Lee vowed to boost the country's economy by focusing on creating jobs and improving welfare. He said the market should lead the way to solving the jobs problem, with the government supporting the market, which is the opposite of the DPK's stance of emphasizing the role of the big government.



"With the protagonists of industrialization and democratization, I will send the signal of a generational shift so that people in their 20s and 30s and the digital generation will appear at the forefront of the country's history," Lee said.



Lee served as Roh's aide when the former president was a lawmaker, and took a senior secretary post when Roh became president. Lee then served two terms as a lawmaker of the 17th and 18th National Assemblies.



He became the governor of Gangwon Province in 2010, but was jailed for receiving illegal political funds, and was stripped of his governorship. His political career then went through a long hiatus, during which he served as head of Yeosijae Future Consensus Institute, a Seoul-based think tank focusing on peace in Northeast Asia, before joining the 21st National Assembly last year.



With about nine months left until the next presidential election, three members of the ruling party have officially declared their presidential bids so far. The others are two-term lawmaker Park Yong-jin and South Chungcheong Province Governor Yang Seung-jo.



Other heavyweights, such as Gyeonggi Province Governor Lee Jae-myung, former Prime Minster Chung Sye-kyun and former DPK leader Rep. Lee Nak-yon, are also expected to declare their bids soon, as they have been mentioned as popular prospective candidates of the ruling bloc.


Italian Rocco Morabito, wanted for drug trafficking and mafia activities, arrives in Brasilia, escorted by federal police and Interpol agents after being arrested in Joao Pessoa, northeastern Brazil, May 25. AFP-Yonhap



Italian prosecutors and police on Tuesday cheered the capture in Brazil of a leading mafia boss who has skirted justice in Italy for nearly 30 years.



Rocco Morabito, number two on the Italian interior ministry's most dangerous fugitives list, was arrested Monday in northeast Brazil.



His capture came almost two years after his audacious escape from a prison in Uruguay, where he was awaiting extradition to Italy.



Morabito  considered a "capo" or captain of the 'Ndrangheta organized crime group  was found in the city of Joao Pessoa along with another Italian fugitive, following a global operation involving Italy, Uruguay and the United States.



Dubbed "the king of cocaine", he has been wanted since 1994 by Italian authorities, who for decades have been trying to slowly chip away at the 'Ndrangheta, the country's most powerful mob syndicate whose tentacles reach far beyond its historical base of the Calabria region.



Morabito is "one of the most important brokers in narco-trafficking", said Giovanni Bombardieri, chief prosecutor in the southern Italian city of Reggio Calabria, during an online press conference.



Investigations begun immediately after his prison escape in 2019 indicated that Morabito was in Brazil, said Pasquale Angelosanto, commander of Italy's carabinieri special operations unit, which deals with organized crime.



Uruguayan prosecutors said Tuesday that Morabito would be extradited directly from Brazil to Italy, where he "has committed the most serious crimes" and could face a 30-year prison sentence.





Rocco Morabito is escorted by federal police, in the hangar of the federal police in Joao Pessoa, Brazil, May 25. Reuters-Yonhap
The state-sponsored hijacking Sunday of an Irish airplane  an outrageous crime directed by the dictator of Belarus to abduct a journalist who opposes the brutal buddy of Russia  demands more than mere expressions of outrage.



Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has no shame, so no amount of spoken condemnation is enough. Short of the journalist's immediate release, a worldwide coalition should be formed to plan for consequences, and President Joe Biden should sign on and help to sign up others.



Lukashenko sent a fighter jet to intercept a Ryanair plane that was traveling through the Belarus airspace Sunday. The plane was ordered to land in the Belarus capital of Minsk. There, a prominent journalist who was a passenger was taken into custody. It is clear that the brazen hijacking of the plane and kidnapping of a passenger has the implicit, if not the explicit, support of Russian President Vladimir Putin.



The outrageous maneuver from Lukashenko, a man who has been called Europe's last dictator, is the latest in an effort to tamp down dissent in his country. The journalist, 26-year-old Roman Protasevich, is a founder and a former editor of the NEXTA Telegram channel, one of the few platforms for uncensored communication in a country where many media organizations shut down after protests over a disputed presidential election in 2020.



In recent years, Protasevich, a native of the Eastern European country of Belarus, has been living in Lithuania. In Belarus, he has been accused of inciting hatred and disorder and is on a terrorist list for his role in Telegram's supposed coordination of protests.



The Ryanair flight from Athens to Vilnius, Lithuania, had about 170 passengers aboard, including Protasevich. As the plane was flying over Belarus, the pilots were ordered to divert to Minsk due to "a potential security threat on board." The plane was escorted by a Belarusian fighter jet to Minsk. After several hours on the ground there, the plane was allowed to depart. Protasevich was not aboard when it arrived in Lithuania. He had been arrested. Passengers reported that the journalist expressed fear for his life.



The United Nations' International Civil Aviation Organization said it was "strongly concerned" by the "apparent forced landing" of the flight, a move which the organization said may constitute a violation of the Chicago Convention of 1944, which set the principles of international aviation. The Lithuanian government was more definitive: "It is an unprecedented attack against the international community: A civilian plane and its passengers have been hijacked by military force."



Ursula von der Leyen, president of the executive committee of the European Union, said the incident was "utterly unacceptable." The Greek Foreign Ministry called it a "state hijacking." Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki of Poland called it an "act of state terrorism." Germany's foreign minister, Heiko Maas, said, "Such an act cannot remain without clear consequences." His French counterpart, Jean-Yves Le Drian, called for a "firm and unified response" by the EU. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken condemned the action and said America "demands [the journalist's] immediate release."





This editorial appeared in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and was distributed by Tribune Content Agency.


By Troy Stangarone





Being separated from the ones you love takes a toll on life. Over time we may adapt to life without them, but as the Korean Peninsula only knows too well a piece of us is left behind.



After the World War II, my grandmother, Mary, left Italy and her family for a new life in the United States. Growing up, I would occasionally hear her talk of the experience of war and her family, but they were a distant presence rather than one she had seen in person since the end of the war.



When I decided during college to go to Italy to meet my relatives before heading to Germany for a summer of study abroad, I asked my grandmother to join me on the trip. Convincing her to go wasn't easy.



But once we arrived in her hometown of Villareggia, it was hard to miss the joy and happiness in everyone's eyes as nearly five decades of separation came to an end. She couldn't wait to introduce me to family I had never met and show me how her home had changed.



No one was preventing my grandmother from returning to Italy. But in seeing how much she missed her family and was missed by all those left behind, you can understand the anguish that comes with not being able to see loved ones and the joy that comes from finally being able to see them again.



That's a joy that has largely been missing from the Korean Peninsula since the end of the Korean War. The division of the peninsula left parents divided from their children, brothers divided from their sisters. The passage of seven decades means that for many the hope of one day seeing their families again has faded. Those born after the Korean War have never been able to meet their relatives on the other side of the border.



While my grandmother and I were free to visit our relatives in the summer of 1998, Korean families have had to hope to be chosen for one of the brief family reunions that have taken place since 1985. While some 20,000 South Koreans have taken part in the reunions, there are still some 48,000 South Koreans that have not been as fortunate.



It may have taken nearly 50 years for my grandmother to return to Italy, but she remained in contact with them over the intervening years. Holidays and birthdays would mean letters or phone calls. An ocean may have divided my grandmother from her family, but the ties remained. The families of a divided Germany sought to maintain those ties as well. During the Cold War, East and West Germans were able to exchange letters and call each other. However, the Stasi monitored those interactions.



Despite the Berlin Wall taking on a more mythic character than the DMZ, the border between East and West Germany was also softer than the inter-Korean border. Germans were able to move across the border to see relatives. From 1964 to 1981, around a million East Germans would travel to West Germany each year. Dispensations were made for emergencies and some 50,000 East Germans would annually travel to West Germany for urgent family reasons.



At last week's summit between Presidents Joe Biden and Moon Jae-in, the United States and South Korea agreed to work to facilitate the reunion of separated families. This should be a priority for the two governments and they should work toward a more permanent ability for the families of the two Koreas to remain in touch.



Prior to the summit, the United States said that it would build its North Korea policy off of prior agreements with Pyongyang. In the Singapore statement the United States and North Korea agreed "to establish new US-DPRK relations in accordance with the desire of the peoples of the two countries for peace and prosperity."



People-to-people ties should be the bedrock of that new relationship. In the United States there are Korean American families who have also been cut off from the relatives. The United States should make clear that any new relationship should include the reunion of families  be they Korean American or Korean  and that it must be on more normalized terms than the controlled settings that have dominated prior family reunions.



However, we should be realistic in the progress that can be made with North Korea over the next year on this issue. Dealing with the pandemic and vaccinating North Korea's population may be all that the system can bear, any calls and letters between South and North Koreans are likely to be monitored. Regularizing travel may take even longer to establish. However, if the United States and South Korea are to build a new relationship with North Korea, they must have a place for families to heal their wounds. There needs to be a way to bring more tears of joy to both sides of the DMZ.





Troy Stangarone (ts@keia.org) is senior director and fellow at the Korea Economic Institute of America.


Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen / Reuters-Yonhap



Taiwan on Wednesday accused China of hindering its efforts to obtain Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines from Germany as it struggles with a sudden spike in coronavirus cases and a slow inoculation campaign.



For much of the coronavirus pandemic Taiwan has had one of the world's best responses.



But a sudden outbreak and trouble securing enough vaccines has taken the shine off that fight.



On Wednesday President Tsai Ing-wen explicitly accused China of being a stumbling block to getting Pfizer shots.



"We had almost completed the contract-signing with the German manufacturer at one point but it has been delayed till now because China has interfered," Tsai said in a post on her Facebook page.



Back in February Taiwanese officials previously hinted China was causing difficulties, but officials steered clear of explicitly naming Beijing.



Authoritarian China regards democratic and self-ruled Taiwan as its own territory and works to keep the island diplomatically isolated.



Taiwan is currently locked out of the World Health Organization and its annual health summit which is meeting this week.



Tsai's administration has not detailed why it believes China has been a stumbling block and Beijing has previously denied putting up roadblocks.



Pfizer-BioNTech's distributor for the Greater China region  which includes Taiwan  is Fosun Pharma based in Shanghai.



Taipei has insisted it only wants to deal with the German firm, something which Beijing would likely balk at.



"Only by purchasing (the vaccines) from the original manufacturer can we obtain direct guarantee in quality and safety to avoid legal and political double risks," Tsai said.



Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian on Wednesday said "Taiwan's access to vaccines from the mainland is smooth," without elaborating further.



He also included a swipe at Tsai.



"We don't recognize this so-called President, she is only the leader of a region of China," he added.



BioNTech's German office has previously said it still intends to provide Taiwan with vaccine doses and that discussions were ongoing.



Fosun has also said it is willing to supply doses.



But still no jabs have materialized.



Taiwan  population 23.5 million  has so far only received some 726,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine via the Covax global sharing scheme and from the manufacturer itself.



It has pre-order deals with AstraZeneca, Moderna, the Covax scheme and local vaccine makers to get some 30 million doses, which are expected to arrive in several batches over the next few months.



But Taiwan is now battling its own major outbreak after keeping infections down to little more than 1,200 cases and 12 deaths before the latest cluster.



In the space of a little over a fortnight cases have now surged to 6,000, while deaths have tripled to 46 after an outbreak among airline pilots spread.



The government has since brought in strict social distancing restrictions, including closing public venues and schools, until June 14. (AFP)


Kendallville, IN (46755)

Today

Scattered clouds with the possibility of an isolated thunderstorm developing this afternoon. High 87F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Clear to partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 66F. Winds light and variable.
Angola, IN (46703)

Today

Some clouds and possibly an isolated thunderstorm this afternoon. High 87F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Partly to mostly cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms during the evening. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
Sen. Bodi White (left), R-Central, chair of the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget, speaks with Senate financial adviser Sherry Phillips-Hymel ahead of the governor's budget presentation on Friday, Feb. 7, 2020, in Baton Rouge, La.
Magnolia, AR (71754)

Today

Clouds and some sun this morning with more clouds for this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 92F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 74F. Winds light and variable.
The pandemic's essential workers are again the victims of a mass shooting -- this time in San Jose
HELENA, Mont. - Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen shared the 2021 graduation message, congratulating Montanas 2021 class of high school seniors.

You are Montanas future  we need you, and we are all collectively looking forward to the great things you will achieve, Superintendent Arntzen said in her message. Never forget how special Montana is, how it has helped shape you, and how you can help shape our great state for those coming after you.

You can watch Superintendent Arntzens full address on the Office of Public Instructions YouTube here or view the full transcript here.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 27, 2021--

Apollo Insurance Solutions Ltd. (APOLLO Insurance) (TSXV: APLO Reserved), Canadas leading online insurance provider, has partnered with the Graphic Designers of Canada (GDC), to offer immediate digital insurance products, specifically tailored to their membership of over 850 graphic designers across Canada.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005207/en/

APOLLO Insurance has partnered with the Graphic Designers of Canada (GDC) to provide their membership with access to digital insurance products. (Graphic: Business Wire)

Launched in April 2019, APOLLO now offers the largest selection of online insurance in Canada through brokers and embedded partnerships like the one with the GDC. In January 2021, APOLLO announced the close of a CAD $13.5 million Series A financing round.

APOLLO is always looking for forward-thinking organizations like the GDC to partner with, said APOLLO Director of Business Development Jill Carberry. The 2020s promise a renaissance of entrepreneurship, and APOLLO will be there to support graphic designers with access to digital insurance products.

GDC is Canadas national certification body for graphic and communication design and, since 1956, has established standards for design professionals, educators, and leaders.

GDC  is very pleased to partner with APOLLO to ensure members have access to fulsome Errors and Omissions insurance at competitive rates, said GDC Executive Director Melanie MacDonald. As an association with 65 years of community trust, GDC takes great care in ensuring the partnerships we enter into are with like-minded, reputable organizations.

APOLLOs proprietary technology platform, the APOLLO Exchange, transacts insurance business in real time, and leverages extensive data and sophisticated algorithms to quote, collect payment, create and deliver policies. Thousands of types of small businesses and individuals are able to buy online without human intervention.

About APOLLO Insurance

APOLLO is Canada's leading online insurance provider. Our proprietary platform, the APOLLO Exchange, allows insurance agents and their customers to purchase their policy immediately, from anywhere, on any device, 24/7.

Unlike traditional paper-based processes, APOLLO leverages extensive data and sophisticated algorithms to quote, collect payment, and issue policies for thousands of types of small business and individuals without human intervention.

Through traditional agents and embedded finance partnerships APOLLO is redefining the distribution of insurance.For more information, visit: https://apollocover.com/

About GDC

GDC  is Canadas national certification body for graphic and communication design and, since 1956, has established standards for design professionals, educators, and leaders. Through our certification program, GDC licenses the unique CGD certification mark to members whose services meet rigorous, standardized criteria. The CGD certification mark is recognized across Canada as the mark of professional services and ethical business conduct.

GDC is a member-based organization of design professionals, educators, administrators, students and affiliates in communications, marketing, media and design-related fields. Our members come together via nine chapters across Canada to advocate for the advancement of the design profession. For more information, visit: https://www.gdc.net/

View source version on businesswire.com:https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005207/en/

CONTACT: David Dyck, VP Marketing & PR

APOLLO Insurance

(778) 917-9667

david@apollocover.com

KEYWORD: NORTH AMERICA CANADA

INDUSTRY KEYWORD: PROFESSIONAL SERVICES MARKETING ADVERTISING COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY PHOTOGRAPHY INSURANCE

SOURCE: Apollo Insurance Solutions Ltd.

Copyright Business Wire 2021.

PUB: 05/27/2021 06:00 AM/DISC: 05/27/2021 06:02 AM

http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005207/en
HARDIN, Mont. - The remains of a young girls body found on the Crow Indian Reservation in Big Horn County by criminal investigators during the evening hours on Feb. 17, 2021 was recently identified.

The remains were confirmed by forensic analysis to be those of 6-year-old Mildred Millie Old Crow.

Mildred was reported as a Missing and Endangered Person on Nov. 24, 2020 by the Montana Department of Justice. A postmortem examination was conducted on Feb. 18- 19, 2021 in Billings by the State Medical Examiners Office.

On April 12, 2021, the Crow Tribal Court found Roseen Old Crow and Veronica Dust guilty following trial for the offenses of Custodial Interference and Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

Both remain in custody and are suspects in the ongoing investigation being conducted by the Big Horn County Sheriffs Office, FBI and BIA Office of Justice Services.

The County Attorneys Office will work with Crow tribal authorities to help ensure their availability in future State court proceedings.

The press release states:

This public release coincides with the funeral of Millie Old Crow in order to help ensure public awareness  and confidence  that the State will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law any persons with criminal culpability in this tragedy.
BOZEMAN, Mont.  The Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport will welcome Southwest Airlines to the tarmac Thursday and look forward to a record 30 summer markets in 2021.

Airport Director Brian Sprenger said they have been working with Southwest Airlines for over a decade letting them know all about what the Gallatin Valley has to offer from tourist destinations to recreational opportunities.

Southwests reputation for low fares and great service will bring a new level of convenience and competition for all our travelers, Airport Director Brian Sprenger said.

In its 50th year of service, Southwest Airlines will now connect customers throughout the nation with Big Sky country, bringing faster access to Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky Ski Resort, Custer Gallatin National Forest, Montana State University and all of southwest Montana.
HELENA, Mont. - All flags flown in the state of Montana have been ordered to be flown at half-staff in honor and remembrance of the victims of the tragedy in San Jose, California.

Flags have been ordered to be flown at half-staff until sunset on Sunday, May 30.
BILLINGS, Mont. - A man is traveling through Montana as part of a 15,000-mile journey to spread awareness about a rare form of cancer, cholangiocarcinoma.

Dave Fleischer was joined by his wife Linda for the first leg of the trip. They passed through Billings on March 26.

Dave and Linda's Fleischer's daughter Sarah passed away from cholangiocarcinoma in 2018. The trip is a way to honor her and, Dave said, to bring hope to those who need it the most.

"I would say the day we found out it was cholangiocarcinoma, it was like a bomb went off," Dave Fleischer said. "That's how I would describe it. And, I think that's the reaction from most people when they're diagnosed with cancer."

"It was crushing," Linda Fleischer said.

Linda is making the first leg of the trip with Dave. They are visiting survivors and caregivers of those affected by this disease. One of those people is Melinda Bachini, an 11-year survivor of Stage 4 cholangiocarcinoma.

"It was crazy," Bachini said of fighting the cancer. "It was scary. And, there's a lot of fear. I have strong faith, so I wasn't so worried or scared about dying, but I was scared to death to leave my kids without a mother."

The Fleischers also visited Kris Volland who cared for her husband who passed away from cholangiocarcinoma in 2015. One of the things she learned was the importance of not waiting to do those things you want to do.

"I also learned that one of the things was, we said, 'We should go do this, we should see my sister or we should go see your sister in Texas or go to Alaska,' and we never did that," Volland said. "Afterwards, I was standing there looking at everything and going, 'We didn't do any of it together.' So, one of the things I've tried to do since then is a lot of those 'We should have done.' I tried to do a lot of those. I went and saw my sister. I spent some time in Alaska."

Fleischer was on day 7 of his trip when he arrived in Billings. In addition to visiting patients and caregivers, Fleischer is also visiting at least 15 towns in the United States named Hope. This year is the 15th anniversary of The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation.
Xi's remarks on promoting global cooperation against COVID-19 pandemic

Xinhua) 14:29, May 27, 2021

Workers transport anti-epidemic material supplies donated by the Chinese government at Wattay International Airport in Vientiane, Laos, May 10, 2021. (Xinhua/Zhang Jianhua)

BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has been calling for strengthened cooperation in the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic as well as concerted efforts to build a global community of health for all.

The following are some highlights of his recent remarks in this regard.

May 26, 2021

During a phone conversation with Montenegrin President Milo Djukanovic, Xi said that since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the two countries have been supporting each other, and carrying out sound cooperation in such fields as pandemic prevention and control as well as production resumption.

Montenegrin Health Minister Jelena Borovinic Bojovic and Chinese Ambassador to Montenegro Liu Jin attend the handover ceremony of China's Sinopharm vaccines in Podgorica, Montenegro, March 3, 2021. (Government of Montenegro/Handout via Xinhua)

China is willing to continue to provide as much assistance as its capacity allows for Montenegro's fight against the pandemic, and promote the building of a global community of health for all, Xi said.

In a telephone conversation with Nepali President Bidhya Devi Bhandari, Xi said that China will continue providing as much support as possible for Nepal's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, adding that he believes the Nepali people will surely win the final victory over the virus.

May 24, 2021

In a telephone conversation with Vietnamese President Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Xi said the two sides should carry on the good tradition of unity and mutual support, join hands to effectively handle and control the COVID-19 pandemic, and substantively protect the people's lives and health.

Photo taken on Sept. 5, 2020 shows students at the school opening ceremony in a school in the Vietnamese capital city of Hanoi. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua)

China, he said, stands ready to continue to provide as much assistance as its capacity allows for Vietnam's fight against the pandemic.

In a telephone conversation with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Xi noted that China and Iran, sticking together and helping each other, have joined hands to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and achieve positive results in bilateral practical cooperation.

China will continue to firmly support Iran in safeguarding national sovereignty and dignity, and is willing to provide as much assistance as possible for Iran's fight against the pandemic and help the Iranian people prevail over the virus, he said.

May 21, 2021

Xi delivered a speech at the Global Health Summit via video in Beijing.

"We must stick together and promote solidarity and cooperation. The pandemic is yet another reminder that we humanity rise and fall together with a shared future," Xi said.

"Confronted by a pandemic like COVID-19, we must champion the vision of building a global community of health for all, tide over this trying time through solidarity and cooperation, and firmly reject any attempt to politicize, label or stigmatize the virus," Xi added.

"Let us join hands and stand shoulder to shoulder with each other to firmly advance international cooperation against COVID-19, build a global community of health for all, and work for a healthier and brighter future for humanity," said the Chinese president.

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
BOLOGNA, MAY 27 - An 18-year-old Pakistani girl, Saman Habbas, has been missing in Italy for almost a month after refusing an arranged marriage and her case has now turned into a murder probe against her parents who have fled back to Pakistan. Saman had been placed in a shelter for girls after reporting her parents to social services while she was under age, at 17. The parents, aged 43 and 46, had been cited in January for trying to force someone to marry against their will. The wedding, with her Pakistani cousin, had been set for December 22 and airline tickets had been bought for December 17. Habbas reportedly disappeared after going for a brief trip to northern Europe, police said. (ANSA).
ROME, MAY 27 - Italian ballet great Carla Fracci has died, Milan's La Scala theatre said on Thursday. The queen of Italian dance would have turned 85 in August. "With her elegance and her artistic efforts, the fruit of intense work, Carla Fracci honoured our country," said President Sergio Mattarella. "I express my most deep-felt condolences to her family and to the world of dance, which has lost a precious and unforgettable figure today. "Her extraordinary artistic and human qualities made her one of the greatest ballet dancers of our time at the international level". Fracci was born in Milan in 1936 and started out at the La Scala Theatre Ballet School at the age of 10, having Russian dancer Vera Volkova among her teachers. She graduated in 1954, becoming soloist in 1956 and principal in 1958. She also worked with the Royal Ballet and the American Ballet Theatre, among many other companies, and her dance partners included Rudolf Nureyev. She went on to direct the ballet company of Naples' Teatro San Carlo, the Verona Arena Ballet Company and the Teatro Dell'Opera di Roma Ballet Company. "Maria Taglioni Carla Fracci was the most important figure in the history of dance at La Scala," said the theatre's superintendent, Dominique Meyer "She grew up at the academy and tethered her name intimately to the history of this theatre. "We will always think of her with affection and gratitude". (ANSA).
ROME, MAY 27 - The European Court of Human Rights on Thursday condemned Italy for what it called "language and arguments that vehicle the prejudices on women's roles that exist in Italian society" over the 2015 appeals court acquittal of seven men for an alleged rape in Florence in 2008. (ANSA).
ROME, MAY 27 - The European Court of Human Rights on Thursday condemned Italy for what it called "language and arguments that vehicle the prejudices on women's roles that exist in Italian society" over the 2015 appeal court acquittal of seven men for an alleged gang rape in Florence in 2008. In the case of J.L. v. Italy, the court also found a violation of the right to respect for private life. The case concerned criminal proceedings against the seven men who had been accused of gang rape by the applicant. Before the European Court the applicant complained that the Italian authorities had failed to protect her right to respect for her private life and her physical integrity in the framework of the criminal proceedings conducted further to her complaint. The Court pointed out that the judicial authorities should avoid reproducing sexist stereotypes in their judicial decisions, minimising gender violence and exposing women to secondary victimisation by making guilt-inducing and moralising comments liable to damage victims' confidence in the judicial system. (ANSA).
ELKHORN  Racing, biker games and live music are just some of the aspects of the first ever Rustic Road Rally.

The three-day event is set for Friday through Sunday, June 4 to 6, at the Walworth County Fairgrounds, 411 E. Court St., Elkhorn.

The rally was created by the Rustic Road Riders, which started in 2008.

Joshua Macaras son, Aiden, was born with a life-threatening health condition. Now 13 years old, Aiden is still alive, thanks to the hard work of doctors, nurses and staff at the Childrens Hospital of Wisconsin in Milwaukee. But Joshua knew couldnt give financially to support the team at the hospital.

Bringing together his love of Harley-Davidson motorcycles and a few thousand friends, Joshua created the Rustic Road Run in 2015.

To date, the run has given $70,000 to the hospital.

Rustic Road Riders, a 501(3) non-profit, has volunteered at Ronald McDonald House and at the Elkhorn food pantry.

The group has also run winter coat drives, built a handicap ramp for a child, donated and installed a furnace for a veteran, served a holiday meal and participated in local Christmas parades.

Rally schedule
The prosecution of a man charged in the Somers House shooting is being delayed as a search continues for an attorney to represent him.

Rakayo Vinson, 24, is charged with three counts of first-degree intentional homicide and three counts of attempted first-degree intentional homicide for the April 18 shooting at the tavern, 1548 Sheridan Road, that left three men dead and three others injured.

Vinson is alleged to have killed Cedric Gaston, 24, Atkeem Stevenson, 26 and Kevin Donaldson, 22, all of Kenosha, shooting the men after a physical fight broke out at the bar. Three other men, a 26-year-old from Kenosha and 22 and 23-year-old men from Wonder Lake, Ill., were shot and survived.

At a hearing Thursday, Kenosha County Court Commissioner Larry Keating said he had received a notice that while Vinson is eligible for representation by the Wisconsin Public Defender, they have not yet found an attorney to represent him.
The Northern New York Agricultural Development Program is investigating the influence of soil compaction on corn crop yield and yield stability. Severely compacted soils limit plant root development and can reduce soil function, particularly in wet seasons.

A new research project aims to address the question of whether wide variation in soil compaction severity across a field is directly proportional to variable crop yield within that field.

This soil compaction research project, led by Kitty ONeil, a soils and crops specialist with Cornell University Cooperative Extensions North Country Regional Ag Team, has begun collecting data on two farms in northern New York.

Soil health influences crop yield, farm economics, and ecological functions on farms, ONeil said. Quantifiable data on the role of soil compaction in soil health and crop performance is missing. This project is designed to fill that knowledge gap.

Cornell University Nutrient Management Spear Program Director Quirine M. Ketterings will provide data analysis. Ketterings earlier research has informed the design of this new project.

In a 2019 study of nine conventionally-tilled dairy farm corn fields in northern New York, compaction was found at the surface and at depths of six to 18 inches in all nine fields with consistent and highly variable levels of compaction within each field and among the fields.
Kolkata, May 26 (PTI) Overcast skies due to Cyclone Yaas prevented enthusiasts from briefly watching a lunar eclipse in Kolkata and several other parts of West Bengal on Wednesday.

The partial eclipse of the moon started at around 3:15 pm and ended at 6:22 pm.

It would have been visible in Kolkata from 6:15 pm, the time of moonrise, to 6:22 pm, but the overcast sky played spoilsport, a senior astrophysicist told PTI.

For several parts of India, the moon was below the eastern horizon during the eclipse.

"For cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai, the eclipse could not be seen as during the eclipse phase, the moon was below the horizon at these places," he said. The total lunar eclipse was visible mostly from Eastern Asia, the Pacific Ocean, most parts of North and South America and Australia.

The next total lunar eclipse will occur on May 16, 2022, but, it will not be visible from the Indian subcontinent.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Manila [Philippines], May 27 (ANI): Owing to repeated delays, disorganisation and erratic supplies, many citizens of the Philippines are rejecting COVID-19 vaccines from China.

South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported that vaccination centres offering shots made by the Chinese company Sinovac have reported few takers and people not showing up for appointment, resulting in a surplus of vaccines at the end of each day.

On the other hand, a vaccination centre in Paranaque City, Metro Manila, was swamped by the public on May 17 when word got around it was administering jabs from Pfizer.

"I think it's the track record of [American drug companies] for producing quality medicines proven for efficacy and safety. Their product is a result of excellent research and development," said Dr Anthony Leachon, a former senior adviser to the country's COVID-19 task force.

Officials have previously estimated the country, with a population of 110 million, needs to vaccinate at least 70 million to achieve herd immunity. However, as of May 24, only 986,929 Filipinos had been inoculated, according to media reports.

Reacting to what happened in Paranaque, President Rodrigo Duterte said last week that people could no longer be given a choice of vaccines. "Whether you are a millionaire or a pauper, you get what is given to you. You can't choose," he said.

Before Duterte's intervention, applicants could pick the vaccines they wanted by skipping days when the brand they wanted was not available.

However, now people will not be told what brand of vaccine is being used until they are at the centre, at which point they could still refuse but would need to rebook, SCMP reported.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on May 24 supported Duterte's decision. Rabindra Abeyasinghe, the WHO representative to the Philippines, called it "a step in the right direction because this will help us to manage these kinds of superspreader events from happening and will also encourage people to accept the vaccines that are being rolled out".

The problem with vaccines from China has largely emerged as thousands of Filipinos who returned from working overseas because of the pandemic might not be able to go back because their host countries will require vaccination passports and Chinese vaccines might not be accepted, SCMP reports.

Though China has made big promises over its vaccine diplomacy, concerns over the efficacy of its vaccine and repeated delays of shipments to other nations are denting their fight against COVID-19.

China's export of millions of vaccine doses has come amid doubts over the efficacy of its vaccines and concerns by industry analysts about whether its production capacity will be able to keep up with an ever-expanding list of overseas customers.

Beijing's efforts have also been hampered by the refusal of its pharmaceutical companies to release data on the efficacy of their vaccines. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
At least nine people, including the gunman, were killed in the recent San Jose mass shooting, which took place in a light rail facility, morning of Wednesday, May 26. Wall Street Journal reported that the shooting took place in a control hub where the Valley Transportation Authority operates and stores trains. The area was a block away from the Santa Clara Sheriff's headquarters and near the city's airport.

The mass shooting in San Jose, California occurred a day after Ohi lost five lives in a shooting in an apartment complex in West Jefferson village.

READ NEXT: Missing Las Vegas Toddler Found Dead; Mom's Boyfriend Charged With Homicide

San Jose Mass Shooting in Light Rail Facility

The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office confirmed with NBC Chicago seven people died at the scene of the mass shooting, while an individual was pronounced dead at the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center situated in San Jose. Meanwhile, a hospital official confirmed that another individual was rushed to the hospital and is in critical condition.

The gunman behind the deaths was identified by the authorities as Samuel Cassidy, 57. Wall Street Journal mentioned a public employment record revealing that Cassidy worked for VTA for at least nine years.

Cassidy was among those pronounced dead at the scene. He died of an apparent suicide, as officials confirmed there was no exchange of gunfire with the suspect.

"I know for sure that when the suspect knew that law enforcement was there, he took his own life," said Sheriff Laurie Smith at a press conference, adding that police officers responded to the 911 calls around 6:34 or 6:35 in the morning.

Meanwhile, details regarding the victims were not furthered by the officials. However, the authorities noted that some of the victims in the recent mass shooting were employees of VTA who are responsible for running the facility.

"This is a horrific day for our city, and it's a tragic day for the VTA family," said San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo.

San Jose City Councilman Raul Peralez confirmed with the Wall Street Journal that the shooting began in a union meeting. Meanwhile, San Jose Police Chief Anthony Mata underscored that there were at least 40 people present inside the facility when the mass shooting occurred.

Officials from the FBI and Department of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms were also present at the VTA facility with the Sheriff's Bomb Squad Personnel. A motive for the mass shooting is yet to be identified by the officials.

Fire Occurred in the House of the Gunman the Same Day

On the same day of the shooting in the San Jose light rail facility, a fire occurred at the residence of the gunman. Investigators believed that Cassidy was behind the fire of his own house. Wall Street Journal noted that the investigators believed that Cassidy set the fire before heading to the VTA facility.

Spokeswoman Erica Ray from San Jose Fire Department confirmed that there were no injuries in the incident. However, the fire made the home uninhabitable. SJPD's bomb squad also responded to Cassidy's home.

President Joe Biden on Gun Violence

President Joe Biden urged Congress to pass a measure that is stricter when it comes to gun control. The President also announced to lower the American flags at half-staff after the series of mass shootings that occurred around the country.

"I urge Congress to take immediate action and heed the call of the American people, including the vast majority of gun owners," said President Biden with aims to curb the gun violence in the country.

President Joe Biden's call to the Congress comes after the latest mass shooting in San Jose light trail facility that also killed the gunman himself.

READ MORE: Pres. Biden to Unveil Actions to Curb Gun Violence, Including New ATF Head

WATCH: 8 people killed in San Jose, California VTA rail yard shooting - from ABC7 News Bay Area
Oscar-winning actor Brad Pitt won over Angelina Jolie in court. Ajudge awarded the former couple a 50/50 joint custody over their five minor children. Wonderwall reported that the former couple shared six children.

The ruling of the judge is tentative. However, Wonderwall noted that it is expected that the decision will become concrete. US Magazine noted that the tentative custody order was issued on May 13.

READ NEXT: John Cena Apologizes on Weibo: Fast and Furious 9 Star Called Taiwan a Country

Brad Pitt Wins Joint Custody Over Their Children

The custody battle revolved around five of their minor children including Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, and twins Vivienne and Knox. Maddox is not included in the custody since he is already a legal adult. The custody will allow the former couple to split time with their children.

An anonymous source told Page Six that the trial lasted for several months and involved a long list of witnesses, including experts, therapists, and "other people who have been with the kids and around them."

The ruling that was made by the private judge hired by the former couple was a blow for the actress since Jolie is seeking sole custody over their children. Wonderwall pointed out that Jolie wanted Brad Pitt to have only supervised visits with kids arguing that the Oscar-winning actor was not a suitable parent for their children.

The court document obtained by US Magazine revealed that Angelina Jolie's testimony "lacked credibility in many important areas." Because of this, the judge overseeing the case decided to modify the custody order between the parties as per the request of Brad Pitt "in the best interest of the children."

Angelina Jolie Sought to Disqualify Judge in Custody Battle Against Brad Pitt

Just a day before the ruling of joint custody was served, Angelina Jolie criticized the judge overseeing their case for not letting their children testify.

Associated Press noted that the actress also argued that the judge has failed to "adequately consider" a section in the California courts code elaborating that it is harmful to the children to have child custody awarded to someone who has a history of domestic violence. Brad Pitt was accused by Angelina Jolie's side of being abusive towards Maddox during a flight from France to the United States. No charges were brought against the actor.

"Judge Ouderkirk denied Ms. Jolie a fair trial, improperly excluding her evidence," said a court filing adding that the evidence was vital to the children's safety, health, and welfare. The filing did not further on the said "evidence" which is deemed to be important in Jolie's case.

Meanwhile, Bradd Pitt's legal defense retaliated arguing that Judge Ouderkirk "conducted an extensive proceeding," that is in a thorough, and fair manner over the past six months.

Peter Harvey, Angelina Jolie's lawyer who is close to the case but not directly involved argued that the actress supports the joint custody between her and Brad Pitt. Jolie and Pitt were known as Hollywood's most prominent couples for at least 12 years.

READ MORE: Marilyn Manson Wanted on 'Active Arrest Warrant' in New Hampshire for Alleged Assault at 2019 Concert

WATCH: The Real Reason Angelina And Brad Divorced - from Nicki Swift
A Guatemala man has been captured after he tried to cross the U.S.-Mexico border for the fifth time.

The immigrant was identified as Orlando Yaxi, who was detained on Tuesday, May 25, by Border Patrol Agents around the McAllen-Hidalgo Reynosa International Bridge in Texas, according to a Fox News report.

Yaxi is a construction worker and a father to two children. He said that it was just always the same struggle. He noted that they had nothing as they could not afford to buy anything due to the pandemic and hurricanes.

The Guatemala man and his two friends from his village had spent three months traveling north. He said that they paid a coyote a total of $10,000 to help them cross the Rio Grande, according to a Border Report news.

Yaxi said that each time he is caught, he is taken back to the bridge and told to walk over it to Mexico.

Yaxi said that they would probably be sent back when asked what would happen to him. He added that he knows God is watching.

READ MORE: Up to 40 Bodies Found Buried at Home of Ex-El Salvador Cop Who Confessed to Killing 2 Women

Migrant Crisis At The U.S.-Mexico Border

In March, around 19,000 migrant children traveling alone were stopped at the Mexican border. This sets a new record high during periods of an influx of child migration in 2014 and 2019, according to an Associated Press report.

Total migrant encounters were more than 172,000 in March, which is an increase of around 100,000 from the previous month. It was also identified as the highest number of encounters since March 2001.

Biden administration officials said that about 28 percent of people expelled in March had been ousted before.

When U.S. President Joe Biden was seated as president, families and children traveling alone have more legal protections and require greater care.

It has also become a bigger part of the mix during his administration, with more than 40 percent of all encounters in March, which is a 13 percent increase from three months earlier.

U.S. officials said they were holding more than 22,500 unaccompanied children as of early May, according to a BBC News report.

Department of Homeland Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said that the CBP cams are no place for children.

Biden officials had also announced this month that a task force was established to reunite families separated under the Trump administration.

The effort was one of the first steps taken by the Biden administration since the Family Reunification Task Force was created in January.

The task force noted that there are now around 1,000 families that are still separated.

Meanwhile, travel restrictions remain in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with asylum-seekers being sent back to Mexico except for families traveling with very young children and unaccompanied migrant youth.

Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard said that they are holding discussions with the DHS and CBP. Both have decided to extend restrictions due to the border cities not being fully immunized, according to another Border Report news.

Ebrard added that Mexico would like to see the economy of border cities in both countries back to normal.

READ NEXT: Pres. Joe Biden Plans to Demote the Second Top U.S. Customs and Border Protection Official: Report

WATCH: First 100 Days: Biden's Challenge At The U.S.- Mexico Border - from NBC Nightly News






Facebook reversed their policy removing posts that say COVID-19 is man-made or manufactured. The Facebook ban lifting was confirmed by a spokesperson of the social media giant with Politico, which acknowledged the rekindled debate about the origin of coronavirus.

New York Post reported that the move of the social media giant also echoed President Biden's order on the U.S. Intelligence in investigating the said Chinese laboratory which is possible where the notorious virus came from.

READ NEXT: Facebook Shuts Down Pro-Israel Page After Being a Target of Hate Speech

Facebook Backpedals on Banning Posts Saying COVID-19 is Man-Made

The social media platform spokesperson, who was not named, said that their decision to reverse the Facebook ban is also aligned with the ongoing investigation of COVID-19's origin as well as the consultation with public health experts.

"We're continuing to work with health experts to keep pace with the evolving nature of the pandemic," said the social media giant's spokesperson underscoring they will continue "to update" their platform's policies when new facts and trends become available.

Earlier in the year, Facebook has banned posts claiming that COVID-19 is manmade or manufactured, as well as other misleading health claims on their platform. Politico noted that the social media giant has been working and consulting global health officials as they updated their policies against false and misleading information pertaining to COVID-19.

"Facebook is supporting the global public health community's work to keep people safe and informed during the coronavirus public health crisis," said the social media giant in their statement in December. The tech giant also noted that they will continue to "prohibit" contents that utilize the pandemic for commercial gains. Facebook also noted that their company invested around $100 million in the news industry as well as supporting fact-checkers.

The Federal government has placed pressure on the social media companies for controlling the misinformation that is revolving in their platforms. Politico noted that the founders and developers of Facebook, Google, and Twitter were summoned in a hearing in March tackling the issue.

Despite other social media saying that misleading claims violate the roots of their policy, the reversal of Facebook ban on posts saying COVID-19 is manmade marks the first prominent social media platform that revisited their policies and rules in the light of the Wuhan lab leak theory that may explain how COVID-19 promulgated globally.

Wuhan Lab and COVID-19 Origins Resurfaced

The Facebook ban reversal on "manmade COVID-19" posts comes as a report from the U.S. intelligence revealed that some Wuhan Lab researchers had fallen ill with symptoms that are consistent with COVID-19 and common seasonal illnesses. It was reported to be at least three researchers from the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

The U.S. intelligence agencies shared a theory explaining that the virus causing COVID-19 leaked because of a lab accident. Another possibility was also furthered, saying that the virus might have been promulgated to humans through an animal host.

READ MORE: New Florida Law to Fine Social Media Companies Like Facebook That Ban Politicians

WATCH: Atlantic Council fellow: Likely Covid-19 came from Wuhan lab - from CNBC Television
Another mayoral candidate was assassinated before the June 6 elections in Mexico that will fill the position of local seats and around half of the country's governors.

The recent kill had brought the total number of candidates assassinated to 34 around the country, according to an Aljazeera report.

The mayoral candidate was identified as Alma Barragan, who was shot on Tuesday while campaigning for the mayorship of the city of Moroleon, which is in the state of Guanajuato known for violence.

During the shooting, two other people were reportedly injured.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador addressed the killing on Wednesday, saying that it was no doubt the doing of organized criminal gangs who were killing candidates to scare voters away from the polls.

Lopez added that the mafias dominate the elections when there is a lot of abstentionisms.

The Etellekt consulting said that the majority of the 34 slain candidates were eyeing nominations or running for local posts, according to an ABC News Go report.

READ MORE: Up to 40 Bodies Found Buried at Home of Ex-El Salvador Cop Who Confessed to Killing 2 Women

Criminal Gangs

Experts noted that criminal gangs wanted to place sympathetic candidates in town halls and city governments. In this way, they could continue their operations without interference from police and extort money from local businesses and government budgets.

Barragan was running on the ticket of the Citizen's Movement Party. The party had released a statement, saying that it is unthinkable that participating in political life means putting one's life at risk.

The party added that this is the most violent election in the history of Mexico. They also noted that they are not willing to act as if that is normal, according to a KTLA News report.

Gladys McCormick, a history professor at Syracuse University, said that there has always been violence with elections and electoral cycles, particularly at the mayoral level.

The security expert added that this time, however, feels like it is more than ordinary.

McCormick said that the organized criminal gangs have infiltrated municipalities and law enforcement. She added that they are now working their way up.

The Etellekt consulting firm said that a total of 88 crimes have been assassinated since the start of the election last year.

More than 60 mayoral candidates have withdrawn from the campaign across the country amid the violence and insecurity, according to The Wallstreet Journal report.

One candidate, who was a former Olympic athlete, was kidnapped by a local gang in Valle de Bravo.

The gang members had warned that they would kill her if she did not quit the race. The candidate has not campaigned ever since the incident.

Meanwhile, some 150 candidates have received protection from the government after they received death threats.

Mexican officials said that the threats mostly came from organized crime groups.

In the state of Guerrero, the whole slate of candidates of one opposition party had quit their candidacy after being threatened by a criminal group.

Drug cartels have widened their horizon in criminal activities. These criminal groups have also entered smuggling migrants, selling black-market gasoline, and extortion, aside from the usual drug trafficking.

READ NEXT: Mexican Drug Cartels Use TikTok to Smuggle Migrants, Recruit Them for Crimes, Abbott Says

WATCH: Violence surges ahead of Mexico's mid term election - from CGTN America






Max Holloway-Yair Rodriguez's featherweight matchup for UFC was reported to be in the works for July. UFC President Dana White confirmed the match between the MMA fighters with ESPN and expected it to be in the headline of UFC Fight Night.

Both parties have not yet signed the contract for the fight. However, it was also confirmed with ESPN that UFC is close to finalizing the 145-pound featherweight matchup between the mixed martial artists.

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Holloway-Rodriguez Featherweight Matchup

Once the contract for the bout between Max Holloway and Yair Rodriguez was finalized, the match is expected to take place on July 17. However, details regarding the venue and the timeslot have not been furthered by the UFC or Dana White.

Once the fight is official, Bleacher Report noted that the featherweight matchup will be the first fight Rodriguez will partake into since he won against Jeremy Stephens in October 2019 via unanimous decision. Rodriguez was supposed to compete against Zabit Magomedsharipov in 2020, but his ankle injury made him drop out in the match.

Furthermore, Rodriguez was also suspended until March of this year for violating the UFC's "anti-doping policy" as he failed to file the location of his testing three times in the course of 12 months.

Rodriguez (13-2-0) will go against Holloway (22-6-0), a former UFC featherweight champion. Holloway ranked second in the UFC Featherweight Rankings and has won against Calvin Kattar in December. Holloway also landed a UFC record of 445 total strikes in a five-round decision win against Kattar at the beginning of the year on Fight island. Furthermore, the 29-year-old MMA fighter defended his title three times before he lost to Alexander Voilkanovski in 2019 and lost for a rematch in 2020.

Moreover, Bleacher Report noted that Holloway ranked number one in the UFC Featherweight contender list and number 9 on the pound-for-pound rankings. Holloway is already considered in line for the 145-pound title shot but the division is currently on hold because current champion Volkanovski is expected to fight against Brian Ortega sometime in 2021.

UFC Upcoming Fights

Apart from the most awaited Max Holloway vs Yair Rodriguez expected to take place on July 17, other events were also scheduled by UFC to take place in June.

On the Heavyweight bout, Jairzinho Rozenstruik and Augusto Sakai will battle in Las Vegas, Nevada on June 6. On June 13, Israel Adesanya and Marvin Vettori will battle for the middle weight title on Gila River Arena in Glendale Arizona. Also in a Heavyweight bout, Ciryl Gane and Alexander Volkov will compete on June 27, also in Las Vegas Nevada.

Just like the Max Holloway-Yair Rodriguez featherweight matchup, Chan Sung Jung and Dan Ige are scheduled for a featherweight on June 20, also in UFC Apex, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

READ MORE: WWE Wrestlemania 2021 Backlash: Roman Reigns, Bobby Lashley, and Bianca Belair Retain Title

WATCH: Max Holloway vs Yair Rodriguez OFFICIAL on July 17 - from TheWeasle
After leaving his baby for just a few moments, a father found his 10-month-old baby being mauled by their two Rottweilers, which resulted in the child's death.

The father left the baby to do a quick chore before the incident happened.

No Longer Man's Bestfriend

The horrifying incident happened at around 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 26, in Willow Spring, North Carolina, which is around 15 miles south of Raleigh.

According to ABC News, Johnston County Sheriff's Office Capt. Danny Johnson told WTVD at the scene of the incident that the child's father left the baby to move a sprinkler in the yard and a neighbor pulled up to talk to him for a while.

Moreover, Johnson stated that the father left the 10-month-old child inside the residence with no one attending only for a couple of minutes. He then heard a commotion in the house. When he went back inside, the father found the baby unresponsive after being mauled by the two rottweilers.

In addition, authorities say that the father then quickly called for help to save his child from the vicious attack. But when the deputies arrived at the scene and started to perform CPR on the baby, they were not successful in reviving the child.

ALSO READ: Idaho Couple Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell Face Murder Charges in Deaths of Her 2 Children

The Johnston County Sheriff also mentioned that the emergency medical services arrived afterward and attempted other attempts of CPR procedures on the child but they did not get a response. The baby was pronounced deceased at their own house, which is also the scene of the attack, WTVD reported.

Meanwhile, it was not confirmed, whether the family has any issues with the dogs before the attack happened. The two dogs were also immediately seized by animal control but it has not yet been determined what will happen to them.

Johnson stated that it is a bad scene.

"Anytime that a young child like that passes -- or any child -- it is very hard on us all because we all have children. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family," he said.

Furthermore, JCSO Criminal Investigations Capt. Jeff Caldwell identified the child as Malia Scott Winberry. He called the incident a "tragic accident in her statement," WECT reported.

Also, Caldwell sent his prayers to Scott Winberry and Bianca Patel for the tragic loss of their 10-month-old daughter. Caldwell also said that the dogs, which were two Rottweilers, were taken by animal control officials after the incident.

Chad Massengill, director of the Johnston County Animal Control confirmed on Wednesday that the dogs have been considered as dangerous by the county, People reported.

On the other hand, also this month, a family in Texas mourned after the loss of a 4-year-old girl, who was mauled by a dog which also resulted on her death. The girl, identified as Elayah Brown, was attacked by their family dog based on the police report.

Brown was found badly injured at the scene and was later brought to Cook's Children Medical Center. However, the 4-year-old girl died because of the injuries she acquired.

RELATED ARTICLE: TikTok Trend Almost Kills 11-Year-Old Boy After Swallowing 'Magneto Beads'

WATCH: 10-month-old infant killed in dog attack by two Rottweilers FROM-WYFF News 4
Portland, TN (37148)

Today

Sunny to partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 91F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

A few clouds. Low around 70F. Winds light and variable.
Portland, TN (37148)

Today

Sunny to partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 91F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. Low near 70F. Winds light and variable.
A letter from a man chronicling his experiences with cannabis was hailed by Judge Catherine Staines as a perfect example of what happens to young people who become addicted to the drug.

Paddy Waldron, 23, of 74 St. Josephs Terrace, Portarlington was before the court on charges of possession of cannabis and possession for sale or supply at his address on February 22, 2020.

A report was before the court. Defence solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick also handed in a letter to the court from Mr Waldron.

Judge Staines asked him for permission to read it out in open court as an example of what happens to young people who get into cannabis and become addicted.

In his letter Mr Waldron said he was so relieved and that he had been in a lonely place.

The Probation Service gave him the help he needed as did the Athy Alternative Programme. He does not smoke cannabis anymore and has a good job.

He had made bad choices and there was no excuse for it. It should never have happened.

He was pressured by people and his life had been threatened. He had been helped by his family and he was forever grateful.

Judge Staines said the letter described perfectly what happens in these cases, and that those advocating for cannabis as a harmless drug should take note of it as a typical example of what takes place.

You become addicted and to pay for it you are asked to sell it, she said. His life and his family had been threatened. He had not been able to work.

Thanks to the Athy Alternative Programme this mans life had been turned around, she said.

She applied Section 1(1) of the Probation Act on these charges.

Mr Waldron was also before the court on an assault charge at Portarlington Train Station on April 17, 2020.

Judge Staines said she would need to see a Victim Impact Report and put the matter back to July 1.
A solicitor took the stand in his own speeding case at Portlaoise District Court on Thursday last week.

Aonghus McCarthy, 35, of 21 Daneswell Place, Glasnevin, Dublin 9 was charged with speeding at the M7 Cappakeel on October 15, 2020.

Garda Alan Dunford told the court that Mr McCarthy was doing 149 in a 120 kph zone on the date in question.

An on the spot fine was issued but had gone unpaid.

Garda Dunford noted that the address on Mr McCarthys licence was different to that of his present address.

Mr McCarthy took the stand and in evidence said that he would have paid the initial fine if he had received it.

It would have avoided the ignominy of this, he said.

He said the address on his licence was that of his previous apartment before he and his partner had bought a new property in Glasnevin.

He said he was denied the opportunity to pay the appropriate amount.

Judge Staines asked him about the second opportunity afforded him when he could have avoided more penalty points.

Mr McCarthy admitted that he did receive the summons and admitted this was served personally on him by an Garda Siochana.

He said the reason he didnt pay the fine when he got the second notice was he didnt want to pay the higher fine.

Sgt JJ Kirby noted the different address on the licence, compared to his present address.

Sgt JJ Kirby put it to Mr McCarthy that he was one of the top solicitors in the country. He should have no problems with the fine print on the summons.

Mr McCarthy said that he would not comment on that.

He said he was denied the opportunity of the second fine. He did not get the fixed charge penalty notice.

The estate he was living in had been built last year.

There was a problem with his post. Daneswell Road was down the road from where he lived at Daneswell Place and there was confusion.

Much of his post had been diverted to the post depot at Collins Avenue.

I did not get it , he told the court.

Judge Catherine Staines said she did not accept his evidence.

Upon leaving the stand she asked him did he want to plead anything in mitigation.

I did not lie to the court, said Mr McCarthy.

I have to deal with you like anyone else. There is no favouritism, Judge Staines told him

Mr McCarthy replied that he did not seek any favouritism..

You have made a decision on my credibility which may lead to difficulties with my clients, he said to the Judge.

Judge Staines said he had the opportunity to pay the second notice before May 13. He had not.

Mr McCarthy said he had been relying on the decision in Nevin Byrne, regarding the initial fine.

Judge Staines fined him 200. A recognisance of 100 was fixed in the event of an appeal.
An interview with a 106 year old Laois woman features in a new campaign encourage Irelands senior citizens to share their life stories.

Vanishing Ireland with Turtle Bunbury is a of interviews with Irelands over 70s, celebrating their life stories, challenges, courage, kindness and humour.

The series seeks to document the very often, extraordinary lives of our older population in a way that celebrates the past while informing younger generations in shaping the future. This new series aims to highlight the wealth of humour, resilience and wisdom from Irelands elders.

Rathdowneys very own Anastatia Statia Kealy (who passed away in 2011), had her interview included in Vanishing Ireland, Further Chronicles of a Disappearing World: Volume 2 published in 2009. Living to a remarkable age of 108, Statias long and fruitful life is recalled beautifully in this interview, highlighting her career as a seamstress and the path she took to become one.

She was 106 at the time when she told her story. READ HER STORY HERE.

Supported by SuperValu, former RTE newsreader Anne Doyle, other people around Ireland are being asked to propose family members or friends over the age of 70, who would like to share their stories.

Speaking about the Vanishing Ireland Series, Bunbury says: Twenty years ago, I teamed up with the renowned photographer James Fennell to create what became the first Vanishing Ireland book. We knew how important it was to chronicle the experience of our older generations, so many of whose fascinating lives were literally vanishing, unrecorded. Introducing the voices of Vanishing Ireland to the podcast generation is an entirely new departure for our elders but is deeply exciting and very much in keeping with our aims. It is my great hope that listening to these interviews - the wisdom, the humour, the memories - will enhance the way we live our own lives."

Taking part in the launch former broadcaster Anne Doyle added, this is such a special series documenting the stories of the past so that they are captured in history forever. I am delighted to work alongside SuperValu and Turtle Bunbury to ensure these stories are available for many generations to come.

"I encourage you to enter family members to be part of this wonderful series. Its high time we hear from our older generation and revisit our past with its rich history. We can all learn something from the experience.

Ray Kelly, Marketing Director, SuperValu said: The Vanishing Ireland project has a robust track record in championing local heroes and strengthening the bond between the generations".

A statement said the mission of Vanishing Ireland has always been to preserve the stories of the older generations, bringing to life the world that our grandparents knew in a manner that appeals to a 21st century audience.

The hope is for Vanishing Ireland to inspire children and grandchildren to listen to the stories of their own parents and grandparents, as well as older friends and neighbours, creating a record of memories for future generations.

Those who would like to put forward friends or family over 70s, are asked to email podcast@ vanishingireland.com or visit www.vanishingireland.com

The closing date for entries is Friday, 4th June 2021.
An outdated sewage treatment plant in a Laois village which was below environmental standards and had polluted a nearby river, has been approved for funding from Irish Water for a full upgrade.

The summertime drought in 2018 forced Ballyroan village's plant to be temporarily shut down after fungal growth was found in the River Gloreen from poorly treated sewage. The river flows into the environmentally protected River Nore. The waste had to be sent in tankers to Portlaoise for several weeks until water levels rose again.

Some work to bring the station up to scratch had already been done since then and paid for by Laois County Council, while waiting for a scheme by Irish Water. This also allowed the council to start building 10 new council houses at Gleann na Glaise.

Now the village is among the first of 13 nationwide to benefit from a new grant scheme by Irish Water, the Small Towns and Villages Growth programme.

Cllr Mary Sweeney has welcomed the investment in her village.

Thank you for listening to my calls to upgrade the plant. There were health and safety concerns. This is all for the sustainable development of the village which is growing rapidly, she said.

Cllr John Joe Fennelly said that is great news for Ballyroan.

Cllr Sweeney has been pushing this for three or four years. Hopefully it wont be long before a proper system is in place, he said.

Cllr Sweeney had tabled a motion to the May meeting of Portlaoise Municipal district asking for an update.

The Director of Services in charge of environment is Simon Walton.

There has been significant work already done funded by Laois County Council to give additional capacity for new residential developments. Irish Water said on May 5 that the small village programme will give funding to Ballyroan. Work will be extended to ensure that treated wastewater will reach required standards. It is very positive for Ballyroan, he said.

Last April the council confirmed that the plant was now compliant with legal licence requirements, although further investment was needed.

Process testing results show compliance with the licencing requirements. We will be encouraging Irish Water to proceed with storm tank and waste sludge storage tank as soon as possible, their water section reported to the April council meeting.

Small Towns & Villages consultants will now be appointed to design the works.

The purpose of the Small Towns and Villages Growth Programme is to support growth in smaller towns and villages. The areas were selected following detailed consultation with Local Authorities to identify and prioritise areas for investment. Irish Water says.
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Gardai seized cash to the value of 3,805 at a house in Ballymore Eustace, it was stated at Naas District Court on May 19.

Kieran Bolger, 32, and Rekha Bolger, 58, whose address was given as 3683 Liffey Heights, Balllymore, were prosecuted for possession of drugs.

Garda James Ryan told of going to the address on September 9, 2017. There were three people present, including the two defendants.

Read more County Kildare news

He said drugs were found in the house along with the cash and suspected deal bags.

He also said some drugs were found in a car.

Judge Desond Zaidan was also told that neither had any previous convictions.

Kieran Bolger was fined a total of 1,300 for possession of cannabis, cannabis resin and cocaine.

A 250 fine was imposed on Rekha Bolger.

Judge Desmond Zaidan ordered that the drugs be forfeited and destroyed and that the money be forfeited.
A new Bill will see people found lying in court facing fines of up to 100,000 or up to 10 years imprisonment.

Roscommon Deputy Denis Naughten has welcomed confirmation that the Criminal Justice (Perjury and Related Offences) Bill 2018 is to be enacted.

Until now perjury has been extremely difficult to prosecute in Ireland but this new law will penalise those who lie under oath for personal gain, stated Mr Naughten, a member of the Regional Group of TDs which has supported the Bill in the Dail since its reinstatement last July.

There is a need to crack down on those who deliberately lie in court and commissions of investigation. Insurance claims place a burden of hundreds of millions of euros annually on charities, sporting bodies, motorists, homeowners, and business owners through excessive insurance cost. However, this Bill is not just about insurance claims it will address those lying about the extent of their injuries, lies under oath by directors of big corporations and swearing facts on affidavits under oath that either include deliberate, or reckless untruths.

When enacted, the new Bill will provide a clear definition of perjury and enable the offence to be more easily prosecuted and will provide clear direction in respect of the penalties to be applied.

This Bill sends as a clear message to anyone engaged in legal proceedings that they must tell the truth and any deliberate departure from that may have serious consequences, added Deputy Naughten.

Also read: New Superintendent welcomed to Leitrim District
St Brigids National School in Drumcong is celebrating today after one of its students was named the FBD Farm Safe Schools regional champion for Connacht.

Kian McNabola, a 2nd class pupil in St Brigids, was chosen after his name was put forward for the award.

St Brigids is currently taking part in the Farm Safe Schools pilot programme which aims to kickstart farm safety conversations in classrooms nationwide.

Each month one dedicated Champion is selected from each region and awarded a certificate of achievement and a family pass to Dublin Zoo, kindly sponsored by FBD. These Champions are those children who are demonstrating excellence, innovation and commitment to improving farm safety awareness as part of the pilot programme.

The Regional Champions have gone above and beyond what is expected of them within the programme. They are passionate, not just about farming, but about making sure the message of farm safety is included and very much part of the conversation in their classrooms, at home and in their community.

Farm Safe Schools coordinator, Alma Jordan explained what made Kian stand out from the crowd.

We received a huge volume of entries for this FBD Regional Awards and it proves the ability and capability of our children to change the culture around farm safety. Kian is very much active on the farm at home and his teacher explained how he has taken a huge interest in all aspects of each module. He has personally gone out to his own farm and taken photos during the busy lambing season and spoke to his Dad and brothers. Kian has also reported all his findings to the class - through notes, orally and diagrams. His willingness to share on the topic of farm safety is tremendous, this is exactly what Farm Safe Schools is all about.

The Farm Safe Schools pilot is a joint collaboration between Agri Aware, AgriKids, the IFA and is supported by the FBD Trust.
WILLIE ODea, TD, has hit back at criticism of his chairmanship of a firm involved in social housing, saying hes financially worse off as a result.

Questions have been raised over the former Defence Ministers role as non-executive chairman of Formation Homes which is part of a project to bring 110 social houses to Clonmacken on the city's northside.

There was criticism from Sinn Fein councillor Sharon Benson at last weeks metropolitan meeting, after it emerged the Fianna Fail man objected to a council housing development on the opposite side of the Condell Road, much of which will also be social units.

He insisted there is no conflict as he does not have any hand, act or part in what government approves.

He added: There are politicians at Leinster House who are still practicing in the Bar, they are practicing solicitors, business people, landlords. I saw on the paper the other day that Danny Healy-Raes plant hire business turned over a profit of 450,000 last year. Michael Healy-Rae has houses. There are other people I could mention. Yet I cannot even have a part-time job even though Im not a minister.

Mr ODea  who said his average pay for Formation is 3,000 a year  said if he was at Cabinet level, and had decision making power, he would resign this role.

The Clonmacken project was initially designed to have been a private estate, with only the legally required social housing.

However, it has since been converted into an all-social housing project, with an approved housing body set to take the reigns.

Asked when this change came about, the veteran TD said he believes it was around 2018/2019.

I was told when they came to Ireland, they were just here to build private housing, not public housing. That obviously changed when they did a couple of deals with housing associations, he added.

Osprey Construction, which is the company ultimately seeking planning permission from Limerick Council in Clonmacken, is registered in the British Virgin Islands and shared cross-over directorships with the Formation Group and Formation Ireland. Mr ODea said last week that Formation was invited onto the project as a minority shareholder in the venture.

He said Formation do not own the site and are not the builders.

According to the National Building Control and Market Surveillance Office the owner of the Clonmacken site is Ian Wheeler.

He has an address at Oakwood House in Hackney Road, East London, as does Formation. According to LinkedIn, Mr Wheeler is the design manager at the Formation Group.

Mr ODea says he does not believe Mr Wheeler is the owner of the site.

To the best of my knowledge, that information is not correct, he said, I dont know what the situation is [with him]. Ive never met Ian Wheeler. If he walked into the room, I wouldnt know the man. He is not the owner.

In terms of government involvement, the TD added: Ive had no contact with the Minister for the Environment or any of his officials concerning any aspect of Formation whatsoever. 

Mr ODea said he bought shares in Formation, but they are valueless now.

I bought the shares on the stock market when they were at their most expensive. Now the company has been delisted, so my shares are pretty valueless. I wouldnt like to tell you what I paid for them, but theyd be valueless now, he added.

The City TD argued: If you took the 3,000 a year from the time I got it, and if you offset the loss I made from the shares, Im much worse off financially from having been involved at all.
THE recent Farm Report from ifac, Irelands farming, food and agribusiness professional services firm, found that 56% of Irish farmers have a positive outlook for their sector.

However, 71% havent identified a successor with 1 in 3 citing their farm is not viable enough. With future viability a worry for many farmers, diversification can be a good way to create new opportunities and generate additional revenue.

Tim Ryan, partner at ifac in Limerick said: While many Irish farms rely on off-farm income to remain viable, working for others is not the only way to generate additional revenue. Farm assets can sometimes be used to diversify into new activities that complement your existing business, improve your work/life balance and benefit the bottom line.

How to diversify

The activities that you may be able to diversify into will depend on factors such as your existing business and resources, your ability to raise finance if needed, and where your business is located. Examples of typical activities that can generate additional income on farms include:

Farm shops: Farmers markets, mobile shops and selling farm produce online.

Tourism: Starting a B&B, providing self-catering accommodation, or converting fields for use as a campsite.

Leisure activities: Offering facilities for leisure activities such as horse riding, livery stables, private fishing.

Conservation: Grants are available under the Green Low-Carbon Agri-Environment Scheme (GLAS) for the conservation of traditional farm buildings and structures.

Leasing: Farmers who want to expand often find it difficult to purchase land so if you have land to lease, this can be a good way to boost your income. Subject to satisfying certain conditions, you may be able to claim income tax relief on the income you generate.

Renewables: In regions with suitable wind patterns, farmers can achieve a good long-term return on investment from wind energy, while revenue streams in the region of 7001,300 per acre are being discussed between farmers and solar development companies.

Forestry: Research carried out for ifac last year found that around four in ten farmers would consider planting more trees on their land. Tax incentives are available for forestry investments operated on a commercial basis to realize a profit.

Farmers are usually eager to embrace opportunities to improve processes, increase productivity and enhance quality. Advances in technology and consumer trends such as demand for gluten-free and vegan products have accelerated innovation in recent times. Where farmers engage in innovative activities or carry out research and development, support may be available through incentives like R&D tax credits.

Assessing the business case

Tim continued, Before deciding to diversify, it is important to assess the business case. This is because some activities that you might diversify into could involve a substantial outlay before any returns are realised, and certain activities could impact your eligibility for important tax incentives when transferring your business to the next generation.

Switching farm assets from agriculture to tourism, for example, could affect your ability to claim agricultural relief. So, its a good idea to get advice from professionals with expertise in the farming sector who understand the pitfalls and help you make the right decisions.

Other tips include

Conduct thorough market research  you need to get a firm handle on demand so that you can have confidence when investing in your new venture. Seek assistance from your contacts and take advantage of relevant incentives. For example, the Teagasc Options Programme is designed to help farm families examine ways to generate additional income and stimulate new ways of thinking.

Work with your business advisor and accountant to develop a credible business plan with realistic financial projections, a clear roadmap for growth and strategies to address potential risks on the path ahead.

Branding is one of the components that should not be overlooked. Creating a brand that resonates with the consumer can be difficult and is often the difference between successful and unsuccessful projects. Good communication and effective use of social media will help you develop a community around your brand.

Keep in mind that there are plenty of supports for start-up businesses including the LEADER programme which provides grant aid for projects that help develop local areas. Local Enterprise Offices and Enterprise Ireland also provide support for eligible businesses. Grants are available for market research, product development, financial planning, capital investment and much more.

By improving income on rural Irish farms, diversification supports viability, resilience and can help overcome succession difficulties. However, as is always the case, it is important to examine the business case before making any decisions. For more information and/or advice, contact your local ifac office.
A LIMERICK family who completed a virtual walk to Perth to raise funds for the Intensive Care Unit at University Hospital Limerick, have been named the Limerick Persons of the Month.

The family of the late John Fitzgerald of Crecora accepted the award in honour of the popular Limerick man who passed away peacefully in the wonderful care of all the staff at University Hospital Limerick.

The 67-year-old contracted Covid-19 over Christmas and took his last breath on January 27 with his devoted family at his bedside.

In the midst of their grief, the extended Fitzgerald family decided to organise a virtual journey from the front door of Johns home in Crecora to the front door of his son Marks home in Perth, to raise money for those who cared for John in his final days.

A Journey for John raised in the region of 30,000 for staff and patients in the ICU. Around 100 family and friends in Limerick and as far away as America and Australia took part in the 15,051kms walk over 24 days.

The staff at the ICU were encouraged to put together a wishlist to include materials which would be of benefit to them in their important roles.

And thanks to the huge generosity of the public those items - including iPads for patients and care packs for the staff - are now being used in the ICU. Many local businesses kindly donated various items.

The late John Fitzgerald was married to Eileen and they have three children - Simon, Mark and Kelly. Originally from Mungret, John moved to Crecora but he was loved wherever he went.

He really believed he was going to jump out of the bed and come home - thats the type of person he was. He had a great outlook, he really did, said Eileen at the Person of the Month presentation at the Clayton Hotel.

John was in the hospital for a total of 27 days. He was in the ICU for 23 days and spent nine days on a ventilator. Weve seen the intensive care unit first-hand and they were amazing, said Eileen.

They looked after John no end but us as well. Dr Motherway was amazing. Every evening they would ring to let me know how John was doing and then ask me how I was doing. I couldnt get over this, said Eileen. They had their hands full with patients but to ask me how I was doing and how my children were doing made such a difference.

They were under serious pressure then, Johns son Simon pointed out. We cant say enough about them, the medical staff.

It was Simons cousins, the Quinns - Ellen, Denise, Julie and Stephanie - who came up with the idea of the virtual walk to Perth.

My dad had never got a chance to go over and see Jackson, his youngest grandson. He had been over to Australia a few times but never had the chance to see Jackson, Simon explained.

Kellys son Kai, 3, who was the apple of Johns eye ran through a ribbon in Mungret Park which marked the end of the walk in Ireland while Mark with his son Jackson, nine months, did likewise in Australia.

An award-winning bookbinder in his early working years, John worked for a time with the Limerick Leader. He was a retired crane driver and was very involved in Crecora-Manister GAA club. He designed the first Crecora crest. He loved history, genealogy and travelling.

While John had been diagnosed with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) it never presented as an issue in his day-to-day life. John was conscious up to the point he went on the ventilator and was put in an induced coma.

It just wasnt happening for him, said Eileen. They tried every machine known to man.

While all his immediate family were at his bedside in UHL when he passed away, sadly, Mark couldn't get home from Australia. Unfortunately, Mark had to witness dad dying on video, said Kelly, her voice breaking in grief.

That was really tough, said Eileen, but having said that we were with him and a lot of families didnt have that.

The Fitzgerald family wish to sincerely thank all those who either supported or participated in the walk and also wish to thank the many businesses who donated iPads and the contents of the 200 care packs.

Sinead OBrien was amazing to get sponsors on board, and our extended family have been so good. We want to thank anybody who donated. We cant thank everyone enough, said Eileen.

It gave us a focus, said Simon of the endeavour. We had some fun times and it gave us something to smile about and think of Dad.

The Limerick Person of the Month awards are sponsored by the Limerick Leader, media agency Southern, and the Clayton Hotel.
LIMERICK City and County Council has sent a warning letter to Roadstone Provinces Ltd regarding its quarry in Ballyneety.

It follows Claire Keating, on behalf of Limerick Against Pollution (LAP), making a formal complaint to the council in April.

However, Roadstone told the Leader this week that independently conducted environmental testing and monitoring at Ballyneety quarry has identified no issues of environmental concern.

In its complaint, LAP called for a comprehensive environmental risk assessment to be carried out on this site as a matter of urgency while highlighting a number of concerns.

The councils Planning and Environmental Services responded to Ms Keating, of LAP, this month.

In a letter, they informed her that this matter has been investigated by the planning authority.

It went on to say that a warning letter under Section 152(1) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 as amended has been sent to Roadstone Provinces Ltd, Saggart, Co Dublin for non compliance with condition no 1 attached to Quarry Registration and conditions nos 2 and 18 attached to planning permission reference at Luddenbeg, Ballyneety, Co Limerick.

Following this, LAP issued a statement: The confirmation from the Planning and Environmental Services department of Limerick City and County Council that they have issued Roadstone Provinces Ltd with a warning letter for non compliance of a number of conditions relating to the abandoned quarry in Ballyneety is welcome news for Limerick Against Pollution. We would strongly encourage the council to expedite their investigation as a matter of urgency in the public interest.

The Leader also asked Roadstone for comment.

A spokesperson said Roadstone has received correspondence from Limerick City and County Council in relation to Ballyneety Quarry.

The company welcomes the opportunity to engage with the council and notes that no determination has yet been made in respect of the matter. While production activity at Ballyneety was suspended in 2010 following a decline in construction activity, it remains a long-term source of essential materials for future construction and infrastructure projects in Limerick city and county.

Roadstone has continued to actively manage the quarry since 2010 and 24-hour monitored CCTV and other safety and security measures remain in place. Furthermore, Roadstone notes that independently conducted environmental testing and monitoring at Ballyneety quarry has identified no issues of environmental concern, said the spokesperson.

The non compliance with conditions that the council refers to in its warning letter are:

1. The area subject to registration is outlined in red on the attached map. Any development outside this area will require the benefit of planning permission. All relevant conditions from permission 06 3689 to apply.

The reason for this is in the interests of clarity.

2. The permission is for a period of six years from the date of this order. No further extraction shall be permitted without a prior grant of planning permission and the restoration of the site shall be completed to the satisfaction of the planning authority within one year of the cessation of extraction works.

The reason is in the interest of clarity having regard to the nature of the proposed development and to ensure satisfactory reinstatement of the site having regard to visual amenity.

18. Before development commences a monitoring programme regarding noise, dust and water quality shall be agreed in writing with the planning authority for the duration of the extraction period. Independent environmental auditors approved by the planning authority shall carry out this programme, which shall be at the developers expense and made available to the public for inspection at all reasonable hours at a location to be agreed with the planning authority.

The reason for this is in the interest of residential amenity.
COUNCIL has said the 8m redevelopment of the Limerick Greenway remains on target for completion by July 1.

The massive re-development of the route, which follows the old Limerick-Tralee railway line from Rathkeale to Abbeyfeale and on to the Kerry border, is nearing completion.

However, the local authority has also expressed serious concern about misinformation on its measures to attract a new bike hire and shuttle bus service to meet the anticipated demand for visitors.

At this weeks full council meeting, a majority of members agreed to provide a working capital loan of 300,000 to the EI Travel Group for this service.

But a number of Independent councillors  including notably the former Fine Gael man Jerome Scanlan opposed the plan.

Now, the council has moved to clear up what it it says is incorrect information published on social media around this award.

A spokesperson for the authority said: Currently the Limerick Greenway has a very limited bike hire service and no shuttle bus service. Without a comprehensive bike hire and shuttle bus service, the Limerick Greenway cannot attract tourists and day trippers without bike to experience the greenway and businesses along the route will not fully harness the economic benefits arising from the investment to date.

It said in order to ensure the greenway reaches its potential, an operator of scale is needed.

The council initiated an open and publicly advertised Expression of Interest (EOI) process for interested parties. As part of the terms and conditions of the EOI process, applicants were afforded the opportunity to request from the council a working capital loan to assist in the set up and provision of this service. Having regard to the impact of Covid-19 on tourism and hospitality businesses it was considered prudent to provide this option as part of the process to attract an operator of scale to establish on the Limerick Greenway, a spokesperson added.

Dublin firm EI owns and operates a number of other tourism brands and products such as Irish Day Tours, City Sightseeing Dublin (open-top bus tours) and the Irish Whiskey Museum.

Speaking at Mondays meeting, Cllr Scanlon said: Im against this. What is proposed would stymie competition. I believe that giving this loan to the provider, we would raise a barrier for entry to others at local level. Agreeing to give Lazy Bikes use of our three depots, we give an unfair competitive advantage to them on the trail. Thats to the detriment of local businesses. We should have confidence at local level.

He urged council to allow local market forces provide bikes on trails, as is the case in other parts of the country.

Despite his opposition, a majority of councillors agreed giving the loan.

A council spokesperson said: The conclusion of this process does not mean other operators, either incumbent or potential, cannot continue or enter to offer their service on the Limerick Greenway. All existing and new bike hire operators can be advertised on Council-owned websites LimerickGreenway.ie and Limerick.ie free of charge and are encouraged to do so.

The council also said people with social media accounts have a responsibility and a platform to promote Limerick and the local authority believes they should do so in a fair and responsible manner.
SIGNIFICANT concerns are continuing to be expressed in relation to a Covid-19 surge in Limerick.

Provisional data shows that the latest daily figure for Limerick - up to midnight on Wednesday - is 61 new cases of the virus.

This is the highest daily figure for cases since the latest surge began.

There has now been 420 cases in Limerick between May 16 and May 26.

A total of 436 new cases of Covid-19 across the country were confirmed this Thursday evening.

Asked this Thursday evening at the weekly HSE media briefing about the recent spike in cases in the Limerick area, HSE CEO Paul Reid said: "What we are seeing every week is that it changes in different areas. I know last week it was the Mid West, Letterkenny, some parts of Dublin and some parts of Offaly so we see a change on a weekly basis but, in particular, there were issues in the Mid West around gatherings and social gatherings that they have - I think it has improved slightly."

Chief Operations Officer Anne O'Connor added: "They are still reporting it as being very very busy. They are still saying that they have very significant concerns as of this morning in the Mid West in terms of both testing and what they are seeing".

The HSE Mid West Community Healthcare said this Thursday afternoon that Limerick is experiencing a high level of demand for Covid-19 testing.

There is capacity each day in our Ennis test centre until 18:30 and Nenagh test centre until 19:45. We would encourage people to attend these alternative centres if you have means to travel, they tweeted.

There have been eight further Covid-related deaths in Ireland reported to the Department of Health up to yesterday.

Due to the cyber attack on the Health Service Executive, this is the only information about how many people have died with coronavirus since 14 May when the HSE IT systems were attacked.

HSE Chief Clinical Officer Dr Colm Henry told the press briefing today that, as of yesterday, 97 cases of the variant that originated in India had been found in Ireland.
A LIMERICK woman is part of a unique political moment in the borough of Islington in the British capital of London.

Mary Roberts, 74, has been named as the official consort to the newly elected Mayor of Islington, Cllr Troy Gallagher.

In taking the chain, the Donegal man becomes the first Irishman ever to hold the office.

By his side for the upcoming year will be Mary, who was born in Ashford and raised on a farm outside Broadford, where she grew up as Mary Delaney.

Speaking to the Limerick Leader from London, where she has lived for more than 60 years, Mary said its a proud occasion for her.

Troy had asked me to be his consort. Ive been friends with him for some years. When it became clear he was going to become mayor, he asked me. Its an honour and a pleasure for me, she said.

Her role involves accompanying him to major events, with Mary predicting he will have around 500 of these to go to during his year in office.

It was an emotional occasion at Islington Town Hall in north-west London as an Irish one-two was confirmed at the top of the Labour-controlled council.

Once he got his robes on, they flew the Irish flag. I was one proud Irish, and Limerick woman, smiled Mary who is taking the role on a voluntary basis.

Before the Covid-19 pandemic struck, Mary was a regulator visitor back home to West Limerick, with her parents buried in the cemetery at Kileedy.

All my family in Limerick are McAuliffes, and my Dads lot, the Delaneys, they are all from Kenmare. Ive always been a very proud Irish woman, Ive never forgotten my roots, she said.

Asked for her memories of growing up in Limerick, she added: Going to the well to get the water, being on the farm, feeding the animals, and taking the cows to milk. You had to do your job and muck in! Im still a country girl at heart and love farm life. At times, I fed the lambs which I loved!

Indeed, Mary wants her final resting place to be back in her home parish in rural county Limerick, adding: There is a little river in Ashford where we used to get the water for our well. I want my ashes spread over that.
It also includes furniture solutions, interiors from flooring to ceiling, energy efficiency solutions and thermal insulation, among others.

REHAU India aims to take its exclusive product range to tier-II & III cities and upcountry markets through their multiple touch points. The new product line will bring in the world class quality with Germen expertise which shall target a very niche set of customers in Modular furniture segment.

The company has witnessed tremendous growth from 2011 to 2019. Growing at a CAGR of more than 23%, REHAU India is very positive to acquire exponential growth from 2021 onwards. In these challenging times of COVID where market is taking its twists and turns, the leadership team at REHAU is very positive and have confirmed that their dealer connect has got stronger in these tough times.

With over three decades of experience in building materials and industrial products, an industry veteran Mr. Arora has brought a lot of innovation to products catering to the need of Indian customers. Under his leadership, REHAU India has achieved commendable success by multiplying its turnover.

Mr. Manish Arora, is a visionary who is driving the business with a profitable growth from past sixteen years for REHAU India. In all these years, the company has grown its extrusion lines and it has been continuously reinvesting.

Shares Mr. Manish Arora, We have a strong dealer partner connect, which is the key to enhancing our footprints pan India. We also have plans to introduce new products lines by H2 in 2021. We have conceptualized some new products that caters to Modular Furniture and will also help in Forward Integration. Quality and Service is one of the biggest USPs of Brand REHAU which resonates with high quality products. Our valued customers in India are willing to pay even higher price for quality products."

Apart from catering to the domestic market, REHAU India is also exporting its exclusive range of products to the entire Indian subcontinent region including the markets across Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and GCC countries in the Middle East. It has direct customers, partners as well as dealers in all these countries.

REHAU India has also undertaken a major restructuring drive in the last couple of years in addition to strong penetration in Furniture Business. Its ceaselessly strengthening its industrial solution and third rail business as well. Already its doing a third rail project for the Kolkata Metro.

REHAU entered India in 1997 and since then, it has witnessed commendable growth and deeper market penetration. With more than 300 dealers and over 1100 points of sales, REHAU India is already present in all major cities, and its looking to appoint franchisees across the country to give shape to its broader expansion plans. Currently the brand has two experience centres in Bangalore and Delhi, while they plan to open more such centres in the country.

REHAU has three plants and multiple warehouses in the country. It has two plants in Pune, one of which is the mother plant, where it produces edgebands as well as various other profiles for the furniture segment. It has one plant in Vadodara too.

Disclaimer: This is a company press release. No HT journalist is involved in the creation of this content.

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For the first time on Wednesday (local time), Taiwan directly accused China of blocking a deal with German firm BioNTech for Covid-19 vaccines.

"Taiwan was close to sealing the deal with the German plant, but because of China's intervention, we still can't sign the contract," the island's President Tsai Ing-wen said in a meeting of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party.

Taipei had previously "smoothly" ordered shots from AstraZeneca in Britain and Moderna in the United States, Ing-wen said.

According to South China Morning Post, this is the first time Taiwan has directly accused Beijing of blocking a deal with BioNTech.

Beijing claims full sovereignty over Taiwan, a democracy of almost 24 million people located off the southeastern coast of mainland China, despite the fact that the two sides have been governed separately for more than seven decades.

When asked to comment on the matter, the German firm said, "We generally do not comment on potential or ongoing discussions to provide vaccine doses."

Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Group signed a deal with BioNTech last year to supply its mRNA vaccines to mainland China, and in March offered to supply some of those doses to Taiwan. Under the deal, Fosun was given the exclusive rights to develop and commercialise the vaccines in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, SCMP reported.

Taiwan is witnessing a new surge in the Covid-19 crisis. It has reported 635 new coronavirus cases and 11 deaths on Wednesday.

Taiwan, which is home to about 23 million people, has so far received 700,000 AstraZeneca shots via the Covax Facility, and less than 1 per cent of its population has been vaccinated. It has yet to receive any of the shots it ordered from Moderna.

At a press briefing on Wednesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian did not comment on Tsai's claim but said the channels for Taiwan to obtain vaccines from the mainland were "unimpeded", SCMP reported.

Meanwhile, Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office spokeswoman Zhu Fenglian said two non-governmental bodies in Shanghai and Jiangsu had agreed to donate a batch of vaccines to Taiwan. "We support and will assist the donation," she said, without specifying the manufacturer or how many doses would be supplied. "We hope that relevant parties in Taiwan will clear obstacles for the delivery to take place as soon as possible." Zhu also criticised Taiwan for not accepting aid from Beijing.

This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text.

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Last weeks 99,000 crore-plus transfer by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) of its surplus to the government, its owner, had piqued curiosity over how it had managed such a large payout in a pandemic-hit year. After all, an expanded balance sheet the previous year had forced RBI to replenish its contingency fund, leaving it with a low surplus. The release of its annual report on Thursday showed the math.

In contrast with asset growth of around 30% during the year ended 30 June 2020, RBIs balance sheet grew only about 7%, to just over 57 trillion, in the nine months to 31 March 2021. This meant that RBI had to put just 20,710 crore into its safety vault to maintain its level at 5.5% of assets, as recommended by the Bimal Jalan panel in 2019. But a smaller buffer top-up isnt enough to explain its dividend. The central banks earnings were quite robust in 2020-21. For this, it reportedly has gains on foreign exchange and other market operations to thank. Well done. Attention will now turn to its monetary policy review on Friday. But what we should really be waiting for is a shift in Indias fiscal stance. The budget was made before covid roared back. Its for New Delhi now to get into rescue mode.

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Zanzibar red colobuses (Piliocolobus kirkii) are one of the most endagered species of African primates.

Endangered primates that are frequently killed by cars while trying to cross the road in a national park in Zanzibar have been given a lifeline after speed bumps were put in to slow down traffic.

Zanzibar red colobuses (Piliocolobus kirkii) are small primates with a white coat, red back and black face. They are currently listed as an endangered species, with fewer than 6,000 mature individuals left in the wild, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of endangered species . The species is endemic to Unguja  the largest island in the Zanzibar archipelago in the Indian Ocean  and most individuals now live within Jozani-Chwaka Bay National Park.

However, despite being a protected species within a safeguarded area, these small primates are still under threat from humans, scientists report in a new study. Red colobuses are frequently hit by cars as they try to cross the main road through the park. In response, local authorities added four speed bumps to the roads in the 1990s after pressure from the WildlifeConservation Society (WCS).

Related: 8 human-like behaviors of primates

"After the road at Jozani was surfaced but before the speedbumps were installed, a colobus was reported to have been killed every two to three weeks, resulting in perhaps about 12% to 17% annual mortality," lead author Harry Olgun, a doctoral student at Bangor University in the U.K., said in a statement .

A Zanzibar red colobus shows off its iconic red back. (Image credit: Tim R. B. Davenport)

Since the speed bumps were installed, the rate of collisions between cars and red colobuses has halved, according to the researchers. "The recent data show that speed bumps have made a huge difference for the safety of the colobus," Olgun said in the statement.

However, collisions with cars still remain a big risk.

"Cars are not selective in the animals they kill," co-author Alexander Georgiev, a primatologist at Bangor University and director of the Zanzibar Red Colobus Project, said in the statement. In the wild, predators target the youngest and oldest individuals in the population, but cars are "equally likely to kill reproductively active young adults," which could stop the population from rebounding, Georgiev said.

However, the researchers still believe there is hope for these adorable primates.

"As tourism grows in Zanzibar and habitat continues to shrink, using science to quantify and solve conservation problems has never been so important," co-author Tim Davenport, director of species conservation and science in Africa at the Wildlife Conservation Society, said in the statement. "Understanding the impact of vehicles on wildlife within a park, and implementing practical solutions is exactly what we as conservationists should be doing.

The study was published online March 16 in the journal Oryx .

Editors note: This article was updated to indicate that the speed bumps have been in place since the 1990s, and not recently placed as had been stated earlier.

Originally published on Live Science.
By Jennifer Weiner

Atria. 432 pp. $28.

- - -

Jennifer Weiner's latest novel, "That Summer," is a #MeToo story; but, in a broader sense, every one of the 15 novels Weiner has written could be described as "me, too" stories. Her heroines are almost always smart, self-deprecating underdogs who haven't been "seen" by the world. Some feel alienated from the normative roles of wife and mother. ("Me, too," think many of Weiner's readers.) Others feel bad about being "plus size" in a world where a woman, still, can never be too thin. ("Me, too.") Still others feel cosmically lonely, or invisible, or ashamed that they have to reach for a pill or another glass of wine to get through the day. ("Me, too," "Me, too," Me, too.")

Weiner has made a major literary career out of writing engrossing popular novels that take women seriously. At their most basic, all of her stories are about women trying to hold on to themselves in a world intent on diminishing them. "That Summer" is more explicitly a political novel than most in that its plot is informed by the rise of the #MeToo movement and the seismic shift in attitudes toward men who claim their actions should be excused because of their youth or because their victims were drunk or dressed provocatively or ... just because. The intertwined story lines of "That Summer" concern two women, both named Diana, who have been harmed in different ways by a man. And that's only the beginning of what these "two Dianas" have in common.

"That Summer" opens with a prologue that is one long held breath. Weiner writes it in present tense, as if the memory it evokes keeps replaying on a loop:

"She is fifteen years old that summer, a thoughtful, book-struck girl with long-lashed hazel eyes and a long-legged body that still doesn't completely feel like her own. She lives in a rowhouse in South Boston with her parents and two sisters, and attends a private school in Cambridge on a scholarship, where she gets mostly B's, except for A's in English and art. She dreams about falling in love."

This is Diana Starling, who takes a job as a mother's helper on Cape Cod during that long-ago summer and meets a crowd of prep-school boys on the beach and is encouraged to believe that one of them - a sensitive, handsome guy named "Poe" - really, really likes her. He invites her to a big bonfire party on the last night of summer and, as Diana sits close to him, drinking something he's handed her in a red Solo cup, she thinks, "This is the best night of my life."

It's not. For years afterward, a traumatized Diana struggles and fails and struggles again to heal from the violence inflicted on her that night.

Daisy Shoemaker, our other "Diana," is a 30-something wife and mother who lives on the tony Main Line outside Philadelphia. Though her given name is Diana, she was renamed "Daisy" by her husband, Hal, during their dating days. Daisy thinks of herself as "short and dumpy," in contrast to Hal, an older corporate lawyer who keeps himself in fighting trim. Daisy is a marvelous cook and had once dreamed of becoming a food writer, but her father's early death and her own early marriage at 20 derailed those ambitions. Now Daisy feels lost and isolated, patronized by her husband and dismissed by her artsy, rebellious teenage daughter, Beatrice. When Daisy begins getting emails meant for the other Diana (their email addresses are almost identical) the two begin an online correspondence that quickly develops into an in-person friendship. But those misdirected emails turn out not to be as random as they first appeared.

Weiner's braided plot not only alternates between the lives of two Dianas, but shifts around in time. The longest, compelling section takes place on Cape Cod, where the adult Diana Starling returns to live, working as a waitress and breathing in the silvery magic of a place she loved before it became a nightmare.

One of Weiner's signature strengths as a writer is her ability to realistically depict how people change in body and soul. In her 2009 novel, "Best Friends Forever," for instance, Weiner powerfully described how her heroine, Addie Downs, gradually inched out of her cocoon of loneliness and superfluous weight. Here, Diana's never-to-be-finished healing spans decades on the Cape. When the adult Diana first arrives back at the Cape in offseason (courtesy of a loan of a cottage), the restaurant manager who hires her instantly sizes her up as a potential "washashore," meaning "the misfits ... the folks who wash up here and decide to stay." Diana's first solitary year - filled with exhausting restaurant work, weekly trips to the library to stock up on novels, morning ocean swims and the loving company of a rescue dog - eventually coheres into a full life. Weiner writes incisively, yet with restraint, about Diana's incremental process of reclaiming some measure of peace.

"That Summer" is a compelling, nuanced novel about the long, terrible aftermath of sexual assault and the things that can be stolen from women that can never be fully restored. But, because it's a Jennifer Weiner novel, it's no polemic. It's empowering in its own way. Weiner seems to steadfastly believe in the saving grace of humor, the ability of time to open up possibilities and the strength of female friendship. Me, too.

- - -

Maureen Corrigan, who is the book critic for the NPR program "Fresh Air," teaches literature at Georgetown University.
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Eric Carle, revered by generations reared on his childrens books including The Very Hungry Caterpillar, has died. He was 91. He died on Sunday at his summer studio in Northampton, Massachusetts from kidney failure, as The New York Times reports.

Carle wrote and illustrated more than 70 childrens books over the course of his career. His best-known work, 1969s The Very Hungry Caterpillar, has sold more than 55 million copies worldwide. In the classic picture book, his iconic green titular character with a vibrant red head eats its way through the colorful illustrated food in the book, leaving behind physical holes in the pages.

Eric Carle Jr. was born on June 25th, 1929 in Syracuse, New York to German immigrants. They moved to Germany when he was 6. He studied typography and graphic art at the State Academy of Fine Arts in Stuttgart. In 1952, he returned to the U.S., moving to New York City with only $40 to his name, according to his website. He worked as a graphic designer and later served as an art director of an advertising agency.

Educator and author Bill Martin Jr. came across one of Carles illustrations, an advertisement of a red lobster, and he approached Carle to illustrate a book he had written. In 1967, their collaboration Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? was released and with it Carles childrens book career was launched.

Among Carles numerous accolades, he received the prestigious Laura Ingalls Wilder Award, now known as the Childrens Literature Legacy Award, in 2003. He earned numerous honorary degrees and in addition to his many other awards, he was the recipient of the Original Art Lifetime Achievement Award from the Society of Illustrators in New York in 2010.

In 2019, in honor of the 50th anniversary of The Very Hungry Caterpillar, exhibitions of Carles work were featured in several museums. To mark the occasion, Carle reflected on the books resonance in a video.

It is a book of hope. Children need hope, he said. You  little insignificant caterpillar  can grow up into a beautiful butterfly and fly into the world with your talent. Will I ever be able to do that? Yes, you will.

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Outdoor accessories brand Igloo has dropped a new Star Wars collection, so you can bring the space-faring fun (and some cold drinks) wherever you go this summer.

After a whole galaxy of recent collaborations, from Beatles Yellow Submarine, to their Grateful Dead-inspired portable coolers, the Star Wars x Igloo collection showcases iconic characters and original artwork, as well as throwbacks to the beloved Skywalker saga.

The line includes the Star Wars Classic Storyboard 14-quart cooler, a retro take on the Playmate design. The cooler features iconic X-wing starfighters, and the Rebel Alliance logo on the side of the tent-top lid. This special edition cooler, as well as other hydration items are in stock at IglooCoolers.com.

IGLOO

Buy: Star Wars Classic Storyboard Cooler at $49.99

The tent-top cooler measures 14.5 x 10.51 x 13.61 inches, and can fit 26 cans with room for snacks. Its lightweight enough to take to your next comic convention or summer road trip, weighing less than four pounds. But while youre traveling from Tatooine to Endor, if you need to fill up on extra drinks, the collection also includes 16 oz. stainless steel tumblers and 36 oz. growlers with designs inspired by the old Star Wars comic book series and movie promotional posters.

IGLOO

Buy: Star Wars Rebels Limited-Edition Cooler at $39.99

Speaking of con seasonthe collection also includes a Star Wars Rebels cooler, which is inspired by the the Rebel Alliance from The Empire Strikes Back. The 7-quart cooler is a limited-edition Comic Con Exclusive, and features vintage-inspired graphics depicting the sagas loyal allies (C-3PO, R2-D2, Chewbacca) and heroes (Leia, Lando, Han Solo).

In addition to coolers and reusable bottles, the Igloo Star Wars collection also includes a Daypack backpack, with an insulated cooler compartment to keep your drinks and snacks chilled throughout every galactic mission. The interior can fit 28 cans (enough for your entire crew), with a liner thats leakproof and easy to clean up. Loaded with zippered pockets and compartments, its a great day bag for the beach too, with enough room for your utensils, smartphone, wallet, water bottle, and more.

IGLOO

Buy: Star Wars Cosmic Comic Daypack Backpack at $59.99

The cooler backpack is available in Cosmic Comic print featuring fan-favorite Star Wars comic strips (pictured above) or in an R2D2 design (if you want to align with the light side, $59.99). Youll also be able to find a smaller, insulated lunch pail in the same Cosmic Comic print (with enough room for 16 cans, available for $29.99), as well as several Mandalorian graphic coolers, enough to join the already massive legion of The Child (aka Baby Yoda) merch.

Whether you fight with the Rebel Alliance, or stand with the Empire, you can gear up for your next galactic adventure with this officially-licensed collaboration between Star Wars and Igloo. The limited-edition line is selling out fast, so you might have to use the Force to secure these coolers, bags, and bottles. See the full collection here.
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A new state-of the-art movie theatre called Cinema Troisi is set to open in a Fascist-era building in central Rome on September 30, an event rife with symbolic significance.

The projector is latest generation 4K; the sound Dolby 7.1 surround; the bar/bistro will serve gourmet food; and the venues plush 300 seats are the same shade of maroon as T-shirts worn by members of the collective of activists and film buffs known as the Cinema America kids who are running it. In 2019 they were attacked by neo-fascists, prompting an outpour of support from, among others, Francis Ford Coppola, Alfonso Cuaron, Keanu Reeves, Guillermo del Toro, and Spike Lee.

In 2012 the kids occupied the Cinema America movie theater in Romes trendy Trastevere hood that developers wanted to demolish and turn into a parking lot and an apartment block. They were evicted by police in 2014 and subsequently started running outdoor summer arenas in Trasteveres Piazza San Cosimato and two other spots, screening vintage or second and third-run movies for free  on which they pay a rental fee  to usually packed crowds.

Now the Cinema America kids have grown up. Theyve spent 1.5 million ($1.8 million) to meticulously restore and refurbish Cinema Troisi  named after late great Italian multi-hyphenate Massimo Troisi (Il Postino)  obtaining the money from a combination of national and local government grants and sponsors, and also putting up property owned by family members as collateral for a loan. They got a ten-year lease on the city-owned building by winning a public tender.

It will be a first-run cinema with a multi-programming schedule showing four different films a day, including thematic retros, presentations, and childrens laboratories says Valerio Carocci, the collectives president. Cinema Troisi will play everything from Star Wars to Agnes Varda, he adds. Carocci and his team attended the pre-COVID era Europa Cinemas Network Conference of exhibitors and distributors in Lisbon and are now in contact with movie theater operators all over Europe.

Another aspect of Cinema Troisi that makes Carocci particularly proud is a study room with free wi-fi that will be open 24/24 seven days a week. The study space is in a former boiler room adjacent to the buildings rooftop that has also been fixed up and turned into a terrace for outdoor events.

Recent visitors to the Cinema Troisi, prior to its September launch, include Italys Culture Minister Dario Franceschini and Rome Mayor Virginia Raggi, another indication of the fact the kids have grown up and become major operators. Which angered a neo fascist group who had attacked them and last week tried to hang a large protest banner in front of the cinema claiming that the kids are on these politicians payroll.

Meanwhile, international support continues to pour in. Carocci is almost fetishistic about a letter he got recently from Jim Jarmusch (see below) saluting the upcoming Cinema Troisi re-opening.

One auteur who, ironically, may not be too pleased about Cinema Troisi re-opening is Italys venerable Nanni Moretti, whose latest film Three Floors will play in Cannes and who runs the almost adjacent Nuovo Sacher movie theatre, a longtime temple for quality films in the Italian capital.

Weve reached out to Nanni, who has been [our guest] at Cinema America and Piazza San Cosimato, says Carocci who says he wrote Moretti to talk to him about common programming strategies. So far Moretti hasnt responded.

Which raises the crucial question of the challenge that opening a new movie theater reps these days, no matter how nice it is.

Carocci is confident that once Italians are vaccinated there will be a return to cinemagoing and that the classy venue with a rooftop terrace and perennially open study room will help reconfigure the relationship people have with cinemagoing.

We think the work weve done in the past six years with our open-air screenings has re-educated the public, he says, adding that he is counting on the fact that the more than 420,000 people whove come to our Cinema in Piazza screenings represent an audience base that is ready to come to Cinema Troisi. This is our strength, he adds. This is what gives us hope that we will be able to sell tickets here.

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Who will Greg Gutfeld yell at now?

Juan Williams, the resident liberal member of the popular Fox News panel show The Five is leaving the program for which he has worked since 2015.

He expressed a desire on air Wednesday to stay near his family in Washington D.C. Williams commuted to New York before the pandemic to take part in the show.

COVID taught me a lot of lessons. As the show goes back to the New York studio, Ill be staying in DC. I will be working for Fox out of Washington. My work as a Fox News political analyst will continue. You know its been going on seven years since I have been a daily host of this show, Williams said Wednesday afternoon. The shows popularity has grown every single year so thank you. Thank you so much, to you, the viewers. Thank you.

Like Alan B. Colmes did before him for years on a show alongside Sean Hannity, Williams has offered up commentary with a left-leaning perspective on Fox News for years, often drawing the wrath of his conservative colleagues. Some of the most viral clips from The Five depict co-host Greg Gutfeld berating Williams over a disagreement on an issue of the day. Fox News intends to use a rotating group of liberal commentators as substitutes for Williams and expects to replace him, eventually, with a panelist who holds a similar viewpoint.

The Five is one of the Fox Corp. outlets most durable programs, luring sizable crowds at its usual late-afternoon hour, and even filling in as part of the Fox News primetime schedule for a period of time after the departures of Bill OReilly and Megyn Kelly. No matter where it went, it was the best decision I ever made as a programming executive, Suzanne Scott, Fox News Medias CEO, told Variety in 2019. In April, the show was the third most-watched cable-news program among people between 25 and 54, the audience coveted most by advertisers in news programming. Only Fox News Hannity and Tucker Carlson Tonight drew more.

As we started planning The Fives return to its New York City studio at our headquarters a few months ago, Juan decided to stay in Washington, DC permanently. We accommodated his request, understanding and appreciating his desire to remain closer to his family and recognizing that a remote co-hosting role on a roundtable in-studio program was not a long-term option, said Megan Albano, the Fox News executive who oversees the show, in a statement. While we will miss his insightful contributions each night and look forward to welcoming him on set whenever hes in New York, we are pleased to have him continue his longtime role as a senior political analyst with Fox News Media. She said that Fox News was  incredibly grateful for his commitment to the show and its success over the last several years.

Originally conceived of as a vehicle to give more air time to Fox News contributors without their own programs, The Five has lent momentum to panelists like Gutfeld, who now hosts a program at 11 p.m.; Perino, who has a daytime vehicle; and Watters, who first gained popularity contributing to the primetime OReilly Factor.

Williams enjoyed a long career before he started contributing to Fox News. He worked for more than two decades at The Washington Post and then joined NPR in 2000 as the host of Talk of the Nation. Some of his commentary on Fox News drew scrutiny from NPR executives, and the broadcaster terminated his employment there in 2010 after he made some remarks on OReillys show, He has been a Fox News contributor since 1997.

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Paul Rudnicks Playing The Palace has been years in the making. The novel follows a New York City event planner named Carter Ogden who unexpectedly sparks a love affair with Edgar, the openly gay Crown Prince of England.

After working on the first draft for almost a year, Rudnick revealed that he spent many months revising the romantic comedy with editor Cindy Wong during the pandemic. The novel seems to have been released at the right time as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are currently making the royal family more accessible than ever before. The author joked that the Duke of Sussex himself would be a perfect casting to play Edgar.

I am convinced that this just happened in reality, Rudnick cracked Tuesday during a Strand Book Store virtual conversation with Varietys senior culture and event editor Marc Malkin. I think that is certainly Harrys next step and I would welcome it. I would say, Youre gonna get paid scale because its your first job, but why not, hes certainly adorable.

Rudnick said he would be open to a followup novel about Carter and Edgar.

Id be delighted to follow them, Rudnick said. I very much want this book to be about that moment when you fall in love, where theres the potential for it to fall apart and blow up in your faceTheres a whole life left to be lived beyond that, so well find out.

Rudnick is also writing the book for the staged musical adaptation of The Devil Wears Prada which is set to make its world premiere on July 19, 2022, at the James L. Nederlander Theatre in Chicago. Featuring music by Elton John, the musical will star Beth Leavel as Miranda Priestly and Taylor Iman Jones as Andy Saks. The team is trying very much to pay tribute to this beloved movie that people cant stop watching and the terrific novel by Lauren Weisberger, but also to reflect the huge changes in the fashion world in particular, in terms of a long-overdue sense of inclusion, Rudnick said.

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HBOs The Last of Us is bringing back a cast member from the video game to reprise her role in the TV series.

Merle Dandridge, who played Marlene in The Last of Us game, will return to portray her in HBOs adaptation of the beloved title. Marlene is the head of the Fireflies, a resistance movement struggling for freedom against an oppressive military regime.

Dandridge joins a star-studded cast that includes Pedro Pascal as Joel, Bella Ramsey as Ellie and Gabriel Luna as Tommy. Chernobyl creator Craig Mazin is set to write and executive produce the series alongside Neil Druckmann, a writer and creative director behind Naughty Dogs The Last of Us game.

The Last of Us takes place 20 years after modern civilization has been destroyed. Joel, a hardened survivor, is hired to smuggle Ellie, a 14-year-old girl, out of a quarantine zone. What starts as a small job soon becomes a brutal, heartbreaking journey, as they both must traverse the U.S. and depend on each other for survival.

In addition to her voice work on the video game, Dandridge was also recently seen alongside Kaley Cuoco in HBO Maxs The Flight Attendant as FBI agent Kim Hammond. Shell next appear in Apple TV Plus Truth Be Told alongside Kate Hudson and Octavia Spencer. Her other past TV credits include FXs Sons of Anarchy, The CWs Starcrossed and NBCs The Night Shift.

Dandridge has a number of stage credits as well, starring as Pharaoh in the Manhattan Concert Productions presentation of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and was nominated for a Grammy for her work on the Broadway revival of Once on This Island. In gaming, in addition to reprising Marlene in last summers The Last of Us Part II, shes also done voice work on Uncharted 4: A Thiefs End, Dota 2, Half-Life 2 and Everyones Gone to Rapture, for which she won a 2016 BAFTA.

Dandridge is represented by SDB Partners, Cornerstone Talent Agency, Schreck Rose Dapello Adams Berlin & Dunham and Kazarian/Measures/Ruskin & Associates (KMR Talent). The Hollywood Reporter first broke the news about Dandridge.

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The Laredo police officer involved in a hit-and-run crash stated he fled the scene of the crash because his wife was scared and would not stop crying, according to an arrest affidavit.

READ MORE: Laredo BP Agent suspended after allegedly allowing migrants through checkpoint'

Furthermore, Alberto Aleman initially stated that Kristina Vera was the driver at the crime of the crash. He then allegedly confessed to his supervisor that he was the driver when the crash occurred.

Aleman, 25, and Vera, 26, were charged on Friday with making false statements to police. Aleman was additionally charged with accident involving damage to a vehicle.

Both are out on bond, according to custody records. Aleman remains on administrative reassignment pending the outcome of the judicial and internal disciplinary review processes.

The Gonzalez Druker Law Firm is representing Aleman and Vera.

We are still investigating the circumstances of the arrests. As such, we are limited in what information we can share right now. We are glad to hear that no one was reportedly injured in the accident. We do intend to issue a statement once the investigation is complete, said attorney Marc Gonzalez.

Laredo police officers responded to a hit-and-run crash reported at about 10:42 p.m. on May 16 in the 4400 block of Texas 359. While en route to the hit-and-run report, responding officers received information via radio about a black Chevrolet Silverado involved in the crash. A witness provided the license plate of the Silverado.

The Silverado, which was last seen traveling north in the 2600 block of Bob Bullock Loop, had crashed with a maroon Chevrolet Malibu, according to court documents. A look out was placed for the Silverado. First officers at the crash site observed the Malibu with the rear bumper and trunk crushed due to the crash, states the affidavit.

The driver of the Malibu stated his vehicle was rear-ended by a black Silverado while he was parked at a red light. After the crash, the Silverado went on top of the median and began traveling north on Loop 20, according to court documents.

The driver of the Malibu did not need medical attention. While at the scene, officers were informed about a hit-and-run crash being reported at about 10:56 p.m. from the 5400 block of Ensenada Drive. The complainant, Aleman, stated he was crashed into and that he drives a black Silverado, according to court documents.

Police arrived at the location on Ensenada and identified the residents as Aleman and Vera. Asked about the incident, Vera stated that she failed to control speed and crashed with another vehicle. She added that she panicked and drove away from the crash site, states the affidavit.

Vera and Aleman stated they were both in the vehicle coming from a gathering with friends. The officer asked both if they had been drinking. Aleman stated that he was the only one drinking. Aleman added that he called in the accident as soon as he arrived home, according to the affidavit.

Police contacted the driver of the Malibu to inform him that the driver of the Silverado had been located. The driver of the Malibu then stated that he would not press charges as long as Aleman and Vera had insurance and would pay for the damages.

A sergeant asked Aleman if police could view his video cameras to verify who was driving the Silverado. Aleman agreed but stated that the camera facing his driveway was not working. Further investigation revealed that the initial call and what Aleman had said to the officer regarding the crash did not coincide, according to police.

READ MORE: Fire causes closure of Texas 359

Aleman initially stated that his wife was the driver but then admitted to his LPD supervisor that he was the driver, states the affidavit. Alemans supervisor stated that Aleman told him that he left the scene of the crash because Vera was scared and would not stop crying. Aleman then allegedly admitted to being the driver of the Silverado at the time of the hit-and-run, states the affidavit.

(Alemans supervisor) stated that as soon as he heard his confession, he explained to Aleman that he should have not left the scene of the accident nor provided  a false report, states the affidavit.
While tubing season starts as soon as the temperatures warm up, the upcoming Memorial Day Weekend is often marked on calendars across Texas as the official kick off of the summer-long tradition.

The rivers across Central Texas are a unifying pastime for the state's thrill and adventure seekers. We've all lost an item in the water or had to save a rogue cooler tube or braved the Comal River chute. But not everyone has become an internet sensation for their tubing tomfoolery like the river revelers we've discovered in recent years.
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden is giving serious consideration to nominating Caroline Kennedy, the daughter of President John F. Kennedy who served as ambassador to Japan during the Obama administration, to serve in a high-profile ambassadorial role, according to a person familiar with the deliberations.

Biden is considering nominating her for another posting in Asia but details of where she might be asked to serve are still in flux, according to the individual who has knowledge about the ambassadorial selection process who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Kennedy served as former President Barack Obamas chief envoy to Tokyo for much of his second term in the White House

The White House declined to comment.

Kennedy, a scion of one of America's most high-profile political families, threw her support behind Biden relatively early in the crowded 2020 Democratic primary process. In a Boston Globe editorial to announce her endorsement, she praised Biden for his long career as a public servant and fondly recalled Biden visiting Tokyo as vice president while she was ambassador.

(Biden) stepped off Air Force Two wearing his aviator glasses and a big smile, she wrote in the Globe ahead of the New Hampshire primary last year. He radiated American optimism and generosity of spirit. He made clear that America would always stand by our allies, and that we were committed to keeping the region peaceful and prosperous. He delivered tough messages as well, but he did it in private, with skill and respect."

Kennedy, along with her uncle Sen. Ted Kennedy, also offered a critical early endorsement to Obama in his 2008 run for the White House.

Biden is expected to soon announce his first major tranche of political ambassadorial nominations, according to White House officials.

The Associated Press has previously reported that he is expected to nominate former senior State Department official Nicholas Burns to serve in China, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti in India, former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel in Japan, and former deputy secretary of state Tom Nides to Israel.

Ken Salazar, a former colleague of Bidens in the Senate and Obama-era Interior Department secretary, is a top candidate for the Mexico ambassadorship. Cindy McCain, the widow of Republican Sen. John McCain and a longtime friend of the president and first lady Jill Biden, is under consideration for an ambassadorial position, including leading the U.N. World Food Program.

Prominent Democratic fundraisers Denise Bauer, Jane Hartley and David Cohen have also emerged as leading contenders for postings in France, Italy and Canada, respectively, according to people familiar with the White House deliberations but also not authorized to publicly comment on the matter. During the Obama administration, Bauer served as ambassador to Belgium, and Hartley was ambassador to France and Monaco. Cohen is a top executive at the cable company Comcast.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  Four environmental organizations on Wednesday asked the Tennessee Valley Authority's internal watchdog to investigate whether the nation's largest public utility misused ratepayer money for lobbying and litigation that fought federal environmental regulations.

The request to the TVA's Office of Inspector General comes after the Energy and Policy Institute, an activist group, released more than 500 pages of records it obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request. The documents prove TVA's dues to the now-disbanded Utility Air Regulatory Group were used for unauthorized activities, the group said. They point to expense reports showing most of UARG's money went to a law firm. In lawsuits, the UARG frequently argued against tighter air pollution and climate regulations.

TVA CEO Jeff Lyash told Congress in a 2019 letter that the utility had contributed $7.3 million to the Utility Air Regulatory Group since 2001. Lyash said the funds were not used to lobby or sue on behalf of TVA, which would require explicit board approval. Instead, TVA used its membership in the regulatory group "to help understand, plan for, and comply with highly technical and complex regulations developed" under the Clean Air Act, Lyash wrote.

The environmental groups seeking a review of the relationship point to documents from the UARGs Nonattainment Committee, which was co-chaired by Don Houston, a TVA senior manager. In that role, he approved billing hours and invoices from Hunton Andrews Kurth, a Washington, D.C., law firm that worked for the group, documents show.

Expense reports for the years 2015 through July 2018 show the committee spent nearly $3.5 million on legal fees and expenses and only about $48,000 on technical expenses. While TVA may not have put its name on lobbying efforts and lawsuits, it was paying for them, the environmental groups allege.

TVA did not directly respond to the new allegations but said in a written statement that contacting the OIG or any other TVA oversight groups is an appropriate avenue for any member of the public to raise potential concerns.

The statement added: Although TVA supported the decision to disband the Utility Air Regulatory Group (UARG) in May 2019, our customers have directly benefited from the research and technical expertise gained from UARG participation, including significantly reduced air emissions and cleaner energy.

A spokesperson for the inspector general's office, Terri Beatty, declined to comment on the letter, which also calls for a review of any TVA involvement in other trade groups, including the Utility Solid Waste Activities Group, the Utility Water Act Group, the Clean Air Act Monitoring Service and the Climate Legal Group.

TVA should not be suing the federal government over existing laws and regulations, especially when they are part of the federal government, said Daniel Tait, chief operating officer of Energy Alabama, one of the nonprofits requesting the review. Even if they were a private utility, these are bedrock environmental regulations that protect public health.

The environmental groups  which also include the Center for Biological Diversity, Appalachian Voices and Southern Alliance for Clean Energy  sent a similar request to the inspector general's office in 2019. Tait said they do not know whether the watchdog agency has acted on their previous request, but with the new request they have more evidence of problems they merely suspected two years ago.

The Tennessee Valley Authority provides power to nearly 10 million people in parts of seven Southern states and is the countrys third largest electricity generator.
The San Antonio-based Lewis Energy Group recently reached out to graduates from the Lyndon B. Johnson High School Oil and Gas program.

After considering a number of students, the company offered paid high school internships to Juan Pablo Duran, Dominik Ledesma, and Leonardo Loredo. All three candidates have their diplomas and their invaluable OSHA certifications.

Lewis Energy H.R. Business Partner Kaitlynn Stevens confirmed the offers earlier this month and added that each individual received an official letter and consent form for standard background and drug screenings.

"Once the results were verified, we reached out with further details and welcomed them to Lewis Energy, Stevens said. Our managers were very impressed with how prepared the students were this year, and for the fact that all of the students were already OSHA 5810 certified  no doubt a result of the campus' involvement in the Oil and Gas Program."

LBJHS Oil and Gas instructor Gildardo Benavides said that he is proud of all of his students and congratulates Juan, Dominik and Leonardo.

"Our CTE courses are focused on training and fully preparing students for the workforce, he said.

Leonardo Loredo stated that his instructor prepared him well for the opportunities ahead.

"Mr. Benavides always had high expectations of us in the classroom and also told us to exceed those expectations when we're out in the workforce," Loredo said.

Students who enroll in CTE courses like Oil and Gas are always advised to take the extra step of earning industry recognized OSHA certifications because it demonstrates a mastery of knowledge and skills that is valuable to prospective employers like Lewis Energy," Benavides said.

UISD's Oil and Gas Program was established in 2013 with the objective of informing students about the industry by providing them with knowledge and skills to decide whether to continue in a related college degree or joining the workforce.

The curriculum encompasses multiple courses (pathways) that were developed by the UISD Career and Technology Department in conjunction with the Texas Education Agency.
BAMAKO, Mali (AP)  Malis transitional president and prime minister will be released from detention gradually after resigning in the presence of international arbitrators who are in the West African nation to mediate the political crisis, the adviser to the military authority who detained the two leaders said late Wednesday.

The resignation by the leader of an 18-month civilian transitional government risks plunging the troubled nation into further instability.

The U.N. Security Council indicated Wednesday after a closed meeting that the resignations were forced and demanded an immediate resumption of the civilian-led transition and return of the military to their barracks.

The world body, along with the African Union and other international bodies, as well as the U.S., have urged Malis military to release the transitional leaders.

The leader of Malis 2020 coup, Col. Assimi Goita, who has been serving as the transitional vice president since September, regained control of the West African country by deposing the president and prime minister in an unprecedented move. President Bah NDaw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane were arrested Monday, along with other government leaders, hours after naming a new Cabinet that did not include two major former junta leaders.

While in detention, NDaw dismissed the prime minister before handing in his own resignation letter, according to a military official and a West African diplomat involved in mediations. Both spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not permitted to speak to the press on the subject.

Maj. Baba Cisse, the special adviser to Goita, who led the arrests Monday that have sparked international condemnation, said the resignations by both the prime minister and president were done in the presence of arbitrators and offered assurances the leaders would eventually be released.

After the resignation of the transitional president and his prime minister, the detainees will recover their freedoms. This will be done gradually for the obvious security reasons, he said at a news conference.

Cisse recited a list of reasons for the arrests of Malis heads of government, including accusations that the prime minister blocked the vice president on certain defense and security issues and violated the transitional charter by not consulting Goita about the formation of a new government.

The U.N. Security Council met Wednesday over Mali and in a statement condemned the arrests and called for the immediate and unconditional release of all the officials detained.

The statement, which was approved by all 15 council members after closed consultations, said that imposing a change of transitional leadership by force, including through forced resignations, is unacceptable.

The Security Council said it noted with concern the risk of negative impact of these developments on ongoing efforts to counter terrorism, implement the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, and stabilize the center of Mali.

The Security Council reiterated its strong support for mediation efforts by the African Union and West African regional group, known as ECOWAS, led by former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan.

French President Emmanuel Macron described the weeks events as a coup and warned of repercussions, including targeted sanctions.

French government spokesman Gabriel Attal said Wednesday, We were very clear with the junta: The transition must include civilians. It must be peaceful, it must be inclusive and it must be limited in time. What has happened ... constitutes for us a rupture of confidence.

The European Union has also warned that it is ready to consider targeted measures against political and military leaders who obstruct the Malian transition.

The United States strongly condemned the detention of the civilian leaders, with the State Department saying it would be suspending security assistance to the Malian forces.

The United States will also consider targeted measures against political and military leaders who impede Malis civilian-led transition to democratic governance, State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement.

He said the U.S. was working closely with the local transition monitoring committee and other international actors to achieve the immediate and unconditional release of the government leaders held.

A democratic, civilian-led government presents the best opportunity to achieve security and prosperity in Mali and the wider Sahel region, the statement said.

Jonathan, who arrived Tuesday night with the West African delegation, said they came to Mali to listen to different parties, including the military, civil society groups and others.

Jonathan earlier acted as mediator in the political crisis last year after the junta detained former president Ibrahim Boubacar Keita on Aug. 18, forcing him to resign. ECOWAS previously threatened the junta with sanctions if it did not install a civilian president and prime minister, and shorten the transitional period to 18 months.

When Goita released a statement Tuesday, he pledged to move forward with new elections in 2022 as previously promised. But his display of force raises fears that there could be further significant interference by the junta that overthrew the last democratically elected president.

The new political unrest could further destabilize efforts to control Malis long-running Islamic insurgency. The U.N. now spends some $1.2 billion annually on a peacekeeping mission in Mali and Frances military has spent eight years trying to stabilize its former colony amid the ongoing threat.

___

Associated Press writer Baba Ahmed reported this story in Bamako and AP writer Carley Petesch reported from Dakar, Senegal. AP writer Elaine Ganley in Paris contributed to this report.
Late Sunday night, the Texas Legislature ended dramatically after Democrats walked out of the House to break a quorum and block the passage of the elections bill, Senate Bill 7, before a midnight deadline. The GOP priority voting bill would tighten the state's election law.

Gov. Greg Abbott quickly seized attention with a threat on Monday, telling his Twitter followers that he would defund the Texas Legislature. He also said he would call a special session to get the bill passed, though he has not specified a timeline.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP)  General Motors is teaming up with Lockheed Martin to produce the ultimate off-road, self-driving, electric vehicles  for the moon.

The project announced Wednesday is still in the early stages and has yet to score any NASA money. But the goal is to design light yet rugged vehicles that will travel farther and faster than the lunar rovers that carried NASAs Apollo astronauts in the early 1970s, the companies said.

Mobility is really going to open up the moon for us, said Kirk Shireman, a former NASA manager who is now Lockheed Martin's vice president for lunar exploration.

The rovers used by the Apollo 15, 16 and 17 moonwalkers ventured no more than 4 1/2 miles (7.6 kilometers) from their landers. GM also helped design those vehicles.

READ MORE: US CUTS MEXICO'S AVIATION SAFETY RATING, CURBING NEW FLIGHTS

NASA last year put out a call for industry ideas on lunar rovers. The space agency aims to return astronauts to the moon by 2024, a deadline set by the previous White House.

Their initial rovers will be designed to carry two astronauts at a time, according to company officials. A brief company video showed a large, open rover speeding over lunar slopes, with more headlights in the distance.

This is "just a glimpse of how we see the opportunity playing out, said Jeff Ryder, a vice president for GM Defense.

By operating autonomously when needed, Shireman noted, the rovers can keep astronauts safely away from dangerous spots like the permanently shadowed craters at the moons South Pole. Frozen water gathered from these dark corners could be used for drinking, growing plants and creating rocket fuel.

Autonomy could also improve efficiency, with astronauts focused on collecting rocks as a rover follows behind like a puppy, he said.

In a separate venture begun two years ago, Toyota partnered with the Japanese Space Agency to build a pressurized electric-powered lunar rover for astronauts. They're calling it the Lunar Cruiser.

GM and Lockheed Martin's vehicle will be unpressurized, meaning that riders will need to wear spacesuits at all times. There's room for both models, according to Shireman.

___

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.
A man charged with burglary and robbery has been sentenced to 15 months in prison following last weeks sitting of Longford District Court.

Charles Reilly, 37 McKeon Park, Longford, pleaded guilty to all charges, telling the court he just wanted to do his time and then leave Longford so he can get on with his life.

Mr Reilly was one of two co-accused who entered a house in the early hours of May 7, 2021, and stole a quantity of cash and a number of phones.

His co-accused, a teen who does not turn 18 until August, was remanded in custody to Oberstown Detention Centre following a special court sitting on May 8.

Last Tuesday, Judge Seamus Hughes heard evidence from Sgt Enda Daly, who explained that Gda Buckley and Gda Leonard had responded to reports of a burglary.

The accused and another man entered the house at 3am. The occupant was asleep on the couch, said Sgt Daly.

They came in through the unlocked back door and one of them kicked the sleeping occupant in the face.

They made off with 220 in cash and a black Samsung phone. They fled through the back door. Five phones were taken during the burglary.

Gardai obtained a search warrant and two of the phones were seized.

Mr Reilly was also charged with robbery, with Sgt Daly giving evidence that the incident occurred following a court sitting.

On March 16, 2021 at 12.35pm outside the courthouse on Main Street Longford, the security guard was on the courtroom door, said Sgt Daly.

There was a young Romanian national who had been in court that morning. The accused spoke to him and he went walking down the road with him. The security guard tried to tell him not to go with him.

He had 100 cash stolen from him and he came back and told the security guard.

The accused was also charged with a section 3 assault on his mothers partner in the early hours of March 4, 2021.

His mother, who appeared in court last week explained that her son has caused no problem since.

I wouldnt like to see him go to prison. My partner doesnt want him to go to jail - we just dont want him to come near the house, she said, confirming that Mr Reilly had been complying with a barring order that was put in place by the court after that incident.

Mr Reilly was further charged with driving with no insurance and driving without a licence.

The court heard that the accused has a large number of previous convictions - a total of 78.

Hes well known to the court, admitted solicitor John Quinn.

Hes had substance abuse problems in the past. Heroin was a big problem through the years but he signed up for a treatment plan in custody. Hes hoping he can get rid of all matters, do his time and come out clean.

When I get out, Im leaving this town. I want to rear my kids and get on with my life, said Mr Reilly.

Judge Hughes, upon hearing the evidence and learning that Mr Reilly was pleading guilty to all charges, told the accused that he would not be backdating his sentence to the date he went into custody but would be handing down each sentence starting from last Tuesday.

For walking out of this courthouse and robbing a man of 100, which very well may have been his life savings and was an audacious crime to commit in the curtilage of the court house - six months in prison, he said, adding that Mr Reilly is a criminal in the truest sense of the word.

Noting the remarks of Mr Reillys mother, Judge Hughes said that the section three assault charge would be taken into consideration but that he will be in serious trouble if he breaches the barring order.

Turning to the burglary and assault of the sleeping occupant of the house, Judge Hughes accepted information from Sgt Daly that Mr Reillys co-accused was the person who committed the assault.

I dont care who committed the assault. By the time they left out the back door, that person was injured and robbed, said Judge Hughes.

Hes not charged with aggravated burglary but he could have been. In any event, he was on bail when he committed that charge.

For entering a home and robbing the occupant, having pleaded and elected, Im sentencing him to nine months consecutive.

For driving with no insurance, Mr Reilly was disqualified for six years and given a three month sentence to be served concurrently to his existing sentences.

The section 38 driving without a licence charge was taken into consideration.
A memorial forest paying tribute to all those who have lost their lives to Covid-19 has been proposed for Longford. At the May meeting of Longford County Council, Cllr Paraic Brady proposed the idea as a greener energy and greener aspect for the county.

I spoke to a person in Fingal and theyre looking for a site for a national forest to represent all those people that have died of Covid-19, Cllr Brady explained.

Youd be talking about planting roughly in the region of 5,000 trees - one tree for every person that has died. Its sort of a memorial forest, somewhere central in the middle of Ireland to represent all those people who have died.

Maybe we could do sculptures and a park and a website set up where people could tell a story if they have a person that has died. It has a green aspect to it. It has a tourism aspect to it because people, naturally enough, would come to go walking in the forest.

It has been proposed in Fingal County Council, he continued, and theyve notified Bord na Mona in regard to it. I do think it would be something that certainly would show Longford on a map, as were in the centre of Ireland.

People might like to come and pay respects to those that have lost their lives during Covid-19. I do think its an area I would like to look into as a project for our county and to be seen to be doing the right thing for all those people who have lost their lives because of Covid-19 and maybe we could just be out front on this.

The proposal was promptly seconded by Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Paul Ross, who said it was a good proposal.

The proposed forest would require approximately five acres with a thousand trees planted per acre.

Director of Services John Brannigan agreed to talk to Cllr Brady separately on the topic but agreed that it is certainly something worth exploring.

The topic was brought up after Mr Brannigan informed councillors that Longford town has been propsosed as a decarbonisation zone as part of the Climate Action Ireland plan, which aims to decrease carbon emissions significantly by 2030.
On street parking could be about to be dramatically reduced from the main streets of Longford town in a bid to kickstart the county's economic revival in a new post Covid-19 era.

Council bosses are "exploring" the possibility of removing parking from the centre of Longford town by encouraging motorists to utilise off street car parks.

Senior figures are likewise expected to make a decision over the coming days to potentially introduce a month's free parking in the main off street areas of town during June and into the first week of July.

The measures are being examined to try and support the county's beleagured retail industry following several months of enforced closure.

Cathaoirleach of Longford Municipal District Cllr Peggy Nolan flagged the idea at yesterday evening's meeting of the local authority by calling on council officials to open talks with local traders and chamber of commerce representatives.

The Fine Gael local politician said there was an onus on the council to underpin a sector of the local economy which has been left "on its knees" in the wake of Ireland's ongoing public health emergency.

"There is never a wrong time to do the right thing," she said.

"Businesses need a shot in the arm and they can't wait any longer. We can't wait another couple of months to see some of these businesses locked up.

"It's time to give the streets back to the traders because they are the lifeblood of what we are trying to do."

Fianna Fail Cllr Uruemu Adejinmi and Independent opposite number Cllr Gerry Warnock supported those sentiments, but warned any moves to alter Longford's traffic management had to be done with the full agreement of local retailers.

"This is about changing habits," said Cllr Warnock.

"It has to be done slowly."

Cllr Martin Monaghan expressed caution at the proposal however, saying any possible talk of pedestrianising the main thoroughfare of the county town could have far reaching consequences for Longford's retail sector.

"I think the traders will put up a fight," he said.

"It (pedestrianising) could end up destroying the main streets of Longford. You will definitely have your pubs and restaurants, but you will have nothing else."

Cllr Warnock replied by insisting there was no likelihood of making the centre of town a no go area for motorists, claiming the proposal was aimed at allowing local businesses adapt to enhancing outdoor spaces.

"This is about minimising the amount of on street traffic and utilising off street car parks," he said.

Cllr Seamus Butler asked for a free parking waiver to be afforded to shoppers in utilising car parks away from the main access routes of town from May 31 to July 5.

"The message needs to go out that Longford is back in business and for us to say to people that you can park for four and a bit weeks for nothing," he told the meeting.

Director of Services John Brannigan said he was cognisant to the views expressed by elected members and vowed to relay the council's decision to councillors over the coming days.
Longford companies are being encouraged to start planning for a green future as part of a government fund and action plan.

Recently launched by the Tanaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar, and the Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications and Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan, the Climate Enterprise Action Fund includes three supports that companies supported by Enterprise Ireland can access to assist on their sustainability journey.

These are:

- Climate Action Voucher  a 1,800 grant to engage consultants to develop plans in areas such as resource efficiency and renewable energy.

- GreenStart  up to 5,000 to measure carbon footprint and identify actions to reduce emissions and operate more sustainably.

- GreenPlus  grant funding of up to 50% to develop a multi-annual climate change plan aligned to international standards and frameworks.

Michael Brougham, Regional Director for the Midlands and Mid-East at Enterprise Ireland said, Ireland has an ambitious target to reduce emissions by more than 51% by the end of the decade. The enterprise sector accounts for 13% of Irelands emissions so it has an important role to play in this national strategy.

Reducing emissions and adopting more sustainable production practices is a smart business strategy. Increasingly consumers are placing a premium on environmentally sustainable products and services. Responding positively to this growing demand is important for consumer-facing businesses.

Likewise, businesses that provide products or services to larger companies are now being required to show transparent environmental credentials and alignment with international standards. Inclusion in this supply chain will increasingly rely on a commitment to our emerging low-carbon, sustainable economy.

Applications to the Climate Enterprise Action Fund will close on 31 August 2021 so I would strongly encourage companies to visit www.globalambition.ie/climateaction for more information.

Enterprise Ireland is also holding a series of webinars to outline the benefits of making sustainability central to business strategy and how to avail of Enterprise Ireland green supports.

The first webinar, which will focus on the food and beverage sector, will take place on Tuesday, 1 June at 10am.

Speakers include Rosaleen Hyde of Ballymaloe Foods, Louise Brennan of OBrien Fine Foods, Padraig Mallon of Kerry Group, Owen Keogh of Lidl Ireland and Deirdre Ryan, Director of Origin Green at Bord Bia.

The webinar will highlight the progress that leading food companies have achieved in reducing emissions and adopting more sustainable processes. It will also focus on how transparent environmental credentials are increasingly important in supply chains.

Other webinars taking place during the month of June will focus on the manufacturing and construction sectors, and digital technologies, fintech, BPO and consumer services.

To register for the webinar on the food and beverage sector, go to www.globalambition.ie/webinar-climate-enterprise-action-fund-food/.
Gardai have arrested three people in relation to an aggravated burglary that occurred in Longford town on Wednesday, May 26.

At approximately 8.45pm yesterday evening, Gardai received report of a burglary at a business premises on Great Water Street in Longford. Three persons had entered the premises and assaulted a male, aged in his 30s. The three suspected offenders then fled the scene taking a number of personal items from the man.

The man sustained injuries during the incident and Emergency Services attended the scene. He was taken to Midland Regional Hospital, Mullingar for treatment.

Following further inquiries, Gardai identified the vehicle which they believed the suspected offenders were travelling in. Gardai intercepted the vehicle in Longford town shortly after 10pm yesterday evening.

Two males (aged in their 20s and 40s) and one female (aged in her 20s) were arrested and taken to Longford Garda Station where they are currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984.

The stolen property was recovered from the vehicle.

Investigations are ongoing.
Gardai have been granted more time to question three people over an alleged aggravated raid in Longford town last night which has left a man in hospital.

Detectives were given the go ahead to continue quizzing two men and a female in connection to an incident in the Great Water Street area of Longford town shortly after 8pm.

ALSO READ: BREAKING: Three held after alleged aggravated burglary in Longford town

The two males, aged in their 20s and 40s, and a female aged in her 20s, were arrested after gardai stopped a car two hours after a man was allegedly attacked at a business premises.

The Leader understands he sustained a number of facial injuries and a suspected fractured jaw in the incident.

This newspaper can also reveal detectives believe the 38-year-old victim, who is from the county town, was threatened with a knife during the course of the incident.

He is still being cared for at Mullingar's Midland Regional Hospital.

All three were arrested and brought to Longford and Granard garda stations under Scetion 4 of the Criminal Justice Act.

A decision by garda bosses to extend their periods of detention was made this morning, meaning gardai have until around 4pm today to either charge or release all three in connection to the alleged incident.
A Longford project has been shortlisted in the .IE Digital Town Awards 2021.

Edgeworthstowns co:worx digital hub project has been shortlisted for a new national award designed to celebrate the digital achievements of local towns and communities across Ireland.

Shortlisted projects span 14 award categories, all of which are in with the chance of winning a share of the total prize fund of 100,000.

The winners will be announced at a virtual awards event on June 10.

'co:worx' will house up to 40 high tech entrepreneurs and businesspeople by offering co-working and hot desking facilities as well as cutting edge training opportunities.

The .IE Digital Town Awards, established by .IE, the company that manages and maintains Irelands country domain name, were launched earlier this year to honour local town projects and people that have demonstrated how digital projects have contributed to enhancements or digital improvements in areas such as health, tourism, education, public services, employment opportunities, citizen empowerment, and social entrepreneurship.

Eleven of the awards will be given directly to individual town projects, with a further three special awards recognising a Digital Changemaker, Digital Rising Star, and a Digital Hero.

Following a competitive selection process by an independent judging panel, the wide-ranging list of shortlisted towns includes projects in sustainability, automation, cultural diversity, social inclusion, and promoting local business.

Oonagh McCutcheon, Corporate Communications Manager at .IE said: We are proud to announce our shortlist of projects for this years inaugural .IE Digital Town Awards.

The .IE Digital Town Awards want to recognise the good work and achievements of towns across Ireland who have utilised digital technologies to create new ways of doing things, promote innovation and to breathe new life into local communities.

What is evident from the projects that were submitted for this years awards is that towns up and down the country have an extraordinary sense of resourcefulness and spirit. Those shortlisted in todays announcement have demonstrated impressive digital improvements and enhancements in their local town, and the .IE Digital Town awards aims to shine a light on these efforts.

We look forward to celebrating these town and community achievements with all our finalists at the special virtual awards event next month.
Ensure you get a print copy of the Loudoun Times-Mirror delivered weekly to your home or business!

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(Alliance News) - Ferrexpo PLC at its annual general meeting on Thursday laid out its corporate governance priorities, with an emphasis on reducing emissions, increasing employee engagement, and enhancing board independence.

The commodities trader and mining company, based in Baar, Switzerland, operates iron mines in Ukraine producing iron pellets sold to the global steel industry.

In 2020, Ferrexpo completed a full review of its remuneration policy designed to enhance its environmental, social, and corporate governance goals by linking them to executive incentives.

Environmental priorities included reducing the company's carbon footprint. Ferrexpo said that during 2020 it reported a 16% decrease in carbon use per tonne of iron exported and expected to continue along this trajectory in 2021.

Ferrexpo signalled its committent to employee health and well-being into 2021 by issuing a third survey of employee engagement and appointing Vitalii Lisovenko as non-executive director with a focus on workforce engagement. With many employees working from home, Ferrexpo noted plans to improve its cyber security standards in the coming year.

Changes to Ferrexpo's corporate governance in 2020 included the addition of several new appointments to the board including Fiona MacAulay and Ann-Christin Andersen as independent non-executive directors. This brings the company's total number of independent directors up to four, with plans to add another. The company said it is committed to a diverse and independent board and a workforce free of discrimination.

Ferrexpo shares were trading up 3.3% at 457.40 pence each in London on Thursday.

By Scarlett Butler; scarlettbutler@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2021 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
(Alliance News) - A groundbreaking union recognition deal has been announced by ride-hailing giant Uber Technologies Inc, with predictions that it is the first step to a "fairer working life" for millions of people.

Under the collective bargaining agreement, the GMB will represent drivers across the UK, saying they will have the right to choose if, when and where they drive.

The agreement follows changes made earlier this year guaranteeing drivers at least the national living wage, holiday pay and a pension plan.

Earlier this year the Supreme Court dismissed Uber's appeal against a landmark employment tribunal ruling that its drivers should be classed as workers with access to the minimum wage and paid holidays.

Under the agreement, the GMB said it will work with Uber on a number of issues, including pay, pensions, discretionary benefits, and safety.

GMB National Officer Mick Rix said: "This groundbreaking deal between GMB and Uber could be the first step to a fairer working life for millions of people.

"History has been made.

"This agreement shows gig economy companies don't have to be a wild west on the untamed frontier of employment rights.

"When tech private hire companies and unions work together like this, everyone benefits, bringing dignified, secure employment back to the world of work.

"We now call on all other operators to follow suit."

Jamie Heywood, Uber's regional general manager for Northern and Eastern Europe, said: "Whilst Uber and GMB may not seem like obvious allies, we've always agreed that drivers must come first, and today we have struck this important deal to improve workers' protections.

"Uber is the only major player in the industry to provide drivers with a national living wage guarantee, holiday pay and a pension, and this historic agreement means that Uber will be the first in the industry to ensure that its drivers also have full union representation."

Andy McDonald, shadow employment rights and protections secretary, said: "This recognition deal is testament to the dedicated work of the GMB union in fighting for better terms and conditions for workers, and Uber has set an example that companies across the gig economy should follow.

"This deal is good news for Uber drivers and shows the importance of trade unions in improving living standards, but there are still millions of workers in the gig economy who are without basic rights and protections, with no voice in the workplace who must not be abandoned by the Government.

"Following the Supreme Court ruling, the Government must change the law to ensure that all gig economy workers receive full employment rights."

The GMB said it will now be able to represent up to 70,000 Uber drivers across the UK.

source: PA

Copyright 2021 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
(Alliance News) -A Aviva PLC on Thursday reported "very good progress" in the first quarter of 2021 as it continued to dangle the prospect of "substantial" shareholder returns once its series of divestments completes.

Net flows in Savings & Retirement were up 31% year-on-year to GBP2.98 billion. Sales grew 23% to GBP6.17 billion.

Elsewhere in Aviva's Life unit, the insurer reported core present value of new business premiums of GBP8.3 billion, steady on a year ago. There were lower volumes of Annuities & Equity Release in a subdued market compared to a "strong start" in 2020, with sales down 52% at GBP1.05 billion.

Core General Insurance gross written premiums rose 4% annually to GBP2.0 billion in the first quarter of 2021.

Aviva has made progress in its debt reduction plans, Chief Executive Amanda Blanc highlighted.

"We made very good progress in the first quarter. We concluded the refocus of our portfolio, selling eight non-core businesses which will generate total cash proceeds of GBP7.5 billion once completed. We have made excellent headway in reducing leverage with debt reduction of GBP1.9 billion in the first half of 2021, and we expect the leverage ratio to be around 26% at the half year," Blanc explained.

Aviva said it expects the proceeds from the eight sold-off businesses by the end of 2021.

Aviva reiterated its promise of a "substantial return of capital" to shareholders following completion of the transactions. It will provide a further update on this later in the year as it progresses completion of the divestments.

Most recently, it earlier in May completed the sale of its entire 40% stake in the Turkish life insurance and pensions joint venture, AvivaSA Emeklilik ve Hayat AS, to Ageas Insurance International NV for GBP122 million.

Richard Hunter, head of markets at interactive investor, commented: "Previous market estimates of a return of GBP3 billion could yet prove to be a touch conservative."

Shares in Aviva rose 2.7% to 410.20 pence in London on Thursday.

By Lucy Heming;A lucyheming@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2021 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
Gibson Guitars is set to open its new Gibson Garage in Nashville, offering six-string aficionados and music historians citywide a chance to try everything under the ageless and increasingly hot brands proverbial sun.

On June 9, when it opens officially in celebration of Les Pauls birthday, the 209 10th Ave. S. location will become the first and only branded Gibson store in the world, and one of very few places where patrons can find each and every model, and every signature from Adam Jones to Slash, available from the company.

The space also features a rotating exhibit of historic guitars, which includes a very special 1938 Gibson Jumbo, the first acoustic guitar to be played on TV, among other legendary instruments from the early 1900s.

Additionally, theres a step-by-step custom guitar creation center, specially designed spaces to comfortably try out both acoustic and electric guitars, a performance stage, and sectioned brand bays for Gibson properties, like the equally historic Epiphone, the 80s-inspired Kramer, and the recently acquired amplifier brand, Mesa Boogie.

Gibson-endorsed blues-rock guitarist Jared James Nichols was one of the first on hand to check out the new digs, which was seen later in the day by Gibson artists such as Joe Bonamassa.

I love the sound, the feel of a Gibson in my hand. I love the way a Les Paul rings. To me it always sounds like my favorite records. That, to me, is the most important thing, Im inspired to play music when I pick up a Gibson, Nichols said. Today Im like a kid in a candy store man. When I walk in here, I get inspired.  This is a wonderland for a guitar player or a music lover.

That was the goal company officials were shooting for when Director of Brand Experience Mark Agnesi launched the project, as President and CEO James Curleigh attested to.

Its important for us, in this sort of new Gibson era, we want people to have a place to come in and experience Gibson, not just hear about it, read about it and listen to it, but we want them to be able to feel it. Thats what the Gibson Garage is for, said Curleigh, as a rotating cast of guitars made the rounds along the spaces walls overhead.

In many ways, Gibson is married to Nashville, as it has been for more than 30 years. The garage adds to a Music City portfolio that already included a factory, service center, corporate headquarters and its custom shop.

Any time you mention Nashville to someone, they smile. Its the first place they want to go post COVID if they havent been here. If theyve been here they want to come back, Curleigh said. Nashville being Music City, its centered around that, but also theres this energy and future focus based on the legacy of music here in Nashville that we can take advantage of, but also contribute to.

Curleigh hopes the new location will serve not only as a store, but also a hub for performance events, artist launches, music instruction and hypothetical collaborations with entities such as the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and Nashvilles School of Rock.

And the stores opening comes at a unique time for the nearly 120-year-old company, a time that may end up featured at the store in its own exhibit some day.

While Gibson was just as adversely affected as any company out there in the early days of the pandemic, things changed as time wore on.

One year ago our factories were shut, 90% of dealers were shut and we had way more questions than answers. As a team we decided were going to be in two modes. One, is plan for significant impact and two is prepare for opportunity  not just stand still, but think about the future of what were going to do, Curleigh said.

It was a good thing, as the guitar business boomed when feelings of isolation and boredom set in.

According to Rolling Stone, iconic guitar store Sweetwater, one of the largest in the U.S., surpassed $1 billion in yearly revenue for the first time in 2020, in the process serving 1.5 million customers, up from 1 million in 2019. On Black Friday 2020, its order numbers peaked at 30,000 a day.

It was an effect felt throughout the industry.

A few months (into the pandemic) there was this COVID creativity that started happening. People said I have a lot of time. Do I want to learn to cook? Do I want to arrange my 100,000 photos on my iPhone or do I want to learn an instrument? Curleigh said. A lot of people said I have a passion for music, I want to learn, or I want to get better or guitar players said Im going to build my dream guitar. We saw the widest spectrum from beginner through to expert aficionado.

All that ended with, we cant make enough guitars today, but were doubling down our crafteries where our craftspeople make guitars and were going to be good shape for the future.

In March 2021, Curleigh and company announced plans to expand its floor and office space at its Bozeman, Montana, factory in order to keep up with capacity, adding more than 100 jobs.
European colonists devastate indigenous civilizations, says journalist

Xinhua) 15:47, May 27, 2021

A participant is seen at the annual Gathering of Nations Powwow and Miss Indian World Pageant in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the United States, on April 27, 2019. (Xinhua/Richard Lakin)

"Everywhere in the world that European powers went from the 16th to the 20th centuries they destroyed local cultures, wrecked previously functioning civilizations, plundered resources, set indigenous people against each other and imposed their own supposedly superior morality and system of government."

WELLINGTON, May 27 (Xinhua) -- European countries' colonial history has been marked by brutality and atrocities, and the failings of the colonial past should be remedied, a New Zealand journalist and consultant has said.

"The evils of colonialism and colonization have never been in doubt as far as I am concerned," wrote John Bishop in an opinion piece published in April on New Zealand's popular news website Stuff.

Maori people dressed in traditional costumes perform Powhiri in Maori, a Maori welcoming ceremony, to mark the beginning of the host year of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) for New Zealand in Wellington, New Zealand, Dec. 1, 2020. (APEC NEW ZEALAND/Handout via Xinhua)

"Everywhere in the world that European powers went from the 16th to the 20th centuries they destroyed local cultures, wrecked previously functioning civilizations, plundered resources, set indigenous people against each other and imposed their own supposedly superior morality and system of government," he wrote.

"To see the indigenous people as inferior (so slavery was common); their lands and assets as being there for the taking, and using force to suppress rebellion and dissent," Bishop observed, were "common features of colonialism" practised by all European powers, notably by the Spanish, Portuguese, Belgian, Dutch, French, and British colonists.

He called for "the failings of the past" to be remedied, adding "sensible discussion must prevail."

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
Jefferson, GA (30549)

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Partly cloudy with afternoon showers or thunderstorms. High 88F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

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Brian Plakke,age 59 passed away May 23rd, 2021 at Hillcrest after a long battle with cancer. Brian was born to Donald and Marlene Plakke.( Howard True stepfather.) He graduated from Mankato West and journied to Alaska with friends,where he enjoyed fishing and traveling throughout the state. 
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The Famous Grouse is one of the worlds most popular blends and the best-selling Scotch whisky in Scotland. But how did this creation from a Perth-based grocer end up becoming a household name? We find out.

When you interview the founder of a brand you always expect to hear the same story of origin: we had a chat one night over a drink and decided to give it a go. So many distilleries, bottlers, and more began this way, with an idea and some Dutch courage. The 19th-century equivalent would appear to be the humble grocer, who began importing wine and spirits at some point and eventually created their own brand which soon took over the world.

The Famous Grouse is one of the most notable examples. Its one of the worlds most popular blends and the best-selling Scotch whisky in Scotland. Youll find it in pretty much anywhere that sells booze, from supermarkets to corner shops and even award-winning online establishments (yes I mean us) and there are very few whisky drinkers who havent at least tried it.

Which makes it one of those household names we take for granted. But consistent, versatile, and affordable blends that set a lot of us on a path to whisky appreciation and support the bulk of the industry didnt just appear out of nowhere. In this new series, were interested in the story behind the Scotch (hence the name), so weve spoken to Lewis Bright, global brand manager at The Famous Grouse, and current master blender Calum Fraser to find out how this creation of a Perth-based grocer ended up becoming so, errr famous.

A famous history

The story begins in 1807 when a grocer called John Brown moved his business to Atholl Street in Perth. His daughter, Margaret married Matthew Gloag, a name you might know as the one often given as the creator of Famous Grouse. But the tale is a little more complicated than that.

It was Margaret who took over the family business in 1824 and she was the one who acquired a license to sell wine and spirits (and snuff) in 1831. A little over a decade later Gloag took control and made use of his experience managing the cellar of the sheriff clerk (rather like a magistrate) of Perthshire for more than 30 years. Gloag did good business bringing in the wines from France, Spain, and Portugal to the streets of Perth. So good in fact that when Queen Victoria visited Perth in 1842, Gloag was invited to supply the wines for the royal banquet.

Then came the moment that changed the course of whisky forever, as around 1875 phylloxera began its destructive journey around the vineyards of France. As wine and brandy became scarce, there was a huge demand for Scotch and Irish products and this prompted the company to look at expanding its blended whisky business. William Brown Gloag, who inherited the business after his fathers death in 1860, was critical in improving its presence in this market, becoming one of the original shareholders of the North British distillery in Edinburgh in 1887 in order to secure a supply of grain whisky.

But it wasnt this Gloag who registered the companys first blended Scotch brand, but Matthew Gloag III, who took charge in 1896. That year Brig oPerth was released and shortly after the Grouse Brand followed. Then, in 1905, the limited company of Matthew Gloag & Son was formed and the family came up with a new name for its whisky: The Famous Grouse. Which is much better than just Grouse, isnt it? Now its famous. Cant argue with that. Matthews daughter Philippa actually sketched the first-ever red grouse which became the brands iconic label and is fondly known at the company now as the woman behind the wings.

A famous name

The Famous Grouse was a family-owned blend all the way up until 1970 when chairman, Matthew Frederick Gloag, died and a prohibitive estate duty forced the family to sell. Highland Distillers, which is now part of Edrington, picked it up for a bargain 1.25m, although Matthew Irving Gloag remained as a director.

This presumably wasnt just sentiment, as the Gloag family clearly had a mind for the whisky business. Highland Distillery had purchased a company with the marketing and distributive power to export 33 million proof gallons to America in 1968. By 1980 Famous Grouse was the highest-selling Scotch in Scotland as well as being the second highest-selling in the United Kingdom and by 1984 it was awarded another Royal Warrant.

That success doesnt show any sign of dissipating. Bright says that in December 2019, The Famous Grouse was the top-selling whisky in the UK off-trade, which demonstrates that demand for our famous whisky remains strong 124 years after it first went to market. So how do they do it? Well, the branding is obviously incredibly strong. The grouse is a surprisingly adept brand ambassador and many of the companys advertisements are memorable.

Edrington also didnt sit still with what it inherited, creating new products like the peated Black Grouse in 2006, the grain whisky Snow Grouse in 2008, and a premium offering called the Naked Grouse in 2010, which has just been rebranded to the Naked Malt. It also ramped up the marketing, founding The Famous Grouse Experience at the Glenturret distillery and striking up numerous partnerships, particularly in rugby, where the company has deals in place with Premiership Rugby, The British & Irish Lions, SA Rugby, and Glasgow Warriors.

A famous blend

Most importantly, however, is the brands ability to maintain a consistent and enjoyable blend. Notable blenders like Gordon Motion, Kirsteen Campbell, and now Fraser have overseen a process that leads to in excess of 40 million bottles being filled per year. The latter says the secret to success is an extremely meticulous approach. Quality control demands reviewing whisky samples at all points of the supply chain.

This includes the nosing of each batch of new make distillate from the several malt and grain distilleries filled for future blends, the nosing of each cask profile (ex-bourbon barrels or sherry-seasoned hogsheads, for example) prior to filling, and the assessment of mature whisky from each and every cask selected for a batch of The Famous Grouse, totaling over 80,000 checks per year. We leave no stone unturned to ensure the perfect dram, Fraser says.

Given that The Famous Grouse is over 125 years old, naturally, some of the malt and grain distilleries that would have been used in the first recipe created by Matthew Gloag are no longer in production. There have also been huge changes in the type of casks available for blending.

The Grouse today

Today, the Famous Grouse is made up of whiskies from the Lowlands, Highlands, Speyside, and Island regions of Scotland, which are all individually matured in oak casks for several years prior to blending. The malt and grain distilleries arent officially revealed by the brand, but its believed that The Macallan and Highland Park are used (both Edrington brands, so it seems likely) with around 65% of the spirit content thought to be made up of grain whisky. For maturation, American and European oak is shaped into casks and sherry-seasoned in Spain prior to being sent to Scotland for filling.

Fraser says the whiskys signature smoothness comes from the aged grain whiskies, which are delicate and sweet in character, acting as the perfect complement to the numerous characters of the malt whiskies within the blend. The role the malt whisky element plays is to create body and weight. The malt whiskies, prior to blending with the grain whiskies, are brought together and reduced to a marrying strength of 45.5% ABV before being left to evolve for at least 21 days. Fraser says this allows further integration, refinement and increases the smoothness of the whiskies ahead of creating The Famous Grouse blend.

Its a profile that has made The Famous Grouse a staple of back bars and drinks cabinets. Its not the most complex spirit and can be a touch raw for strict single malt drinkers, but check our user reviews on the products page and youll see the same kind of words popping up time and time again. Underrated. Reliable. Grouse. Jokes aside, The Famous Grouse is the kind of product that often serves as peoples introduction to whisky, and its a worthy first dram. We all start somewhere and this balanced, tasty, malty blend with plenty of mellow sweetness and a refined mouthfeel makes for a pleasant sipper. Where it really shines for me, however, is in cocktails, specifically Highballs. According to Bright, the best way to enjoy The Famous Grouse whisky is the simple but effective Grouse & Ginger, the recipe for which is below.

How to make Grouse & Ginger

50ml The Famous Grouse

150ml ginger ale

Lime wedge

Method:

Fill the glass with ice, then pour in The Famous Grouse followed by the ginger ale. Garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy!
Viola Caudill, 85, a resident of the Gowen Community passed away Thursday June 10, 2021 at home. A Graveside service will be held a 11:00 AM Monday June 14, 2021 in the Pavilion at Bache-Red Oak Cemetery. There will be a family and friends visitation on Sunday June 13, 2021 from 5:00pm to 7:
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As you are aware, the Ministry of Health and Wellness in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity is proceeding with the vaccination campaign against Covid-19 for the Senior Citizens as from 20 May 2021 to 26 May 2021.



The programme is being extended from 27 May to 01 June 2021.

Persons attending the respective vaccination site are kindly requested to bring their National Identity Card.

Please Note: Persons who are travelling abroad should contact the International Vaccination Centre, Mutual Aid Building, Port Louis for appointment for the Covid-19 Vaccination (Tel. Number 210 8583).

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Part of what is disappearing with The Century Fund is the relationships it had with all of the nonprofits it funded, Kushner said. We saw that with the Hurd Foundation, that their leadership in the last few years, they were so helpful to the nonprofits they supported. That support of the nonprofits, they have to rebuild that from the start and thats where they run into the problem of the warehouse owned by an investor in Buenos Aires, or some place that aint here.
Thats a strong indicator that we are on track to get at least [70%] getting both doses by the end of June, she said. The Department of Health will continue to make getting a vaccine as convenient as possible by making it widely available and supporting equitable and effective efforts to reach every Pennsylvanian who wants it.
Our menu is all a la carte, and we did that intentionally, DeGruccio said. So, rather than read through a bunch of sides and descriptions for your meal, you can just pick what you want and order it. If you want the fried chicken, get the fried chicken. If you want the cheesecake as an appetizer, go for it because its entirely up to you. You build your experience and meal here.
The high schools never gave up, said Shelley Brown, executive producer of the awards program, in a news release. Its a testament to arts programs in the Lehigh Valley and Warren County, NJ. These students and directors find a way. They know how valuable it can be to them and to their community.
Voters in the West Ends affluent 17th and 18th Wards make up less than 10% of the citys total registered Democrats but consistently account for 20% of those who actually cast ballots in municipal primaries. This year, the West End was responsible for just 17% of in-person voters, but a staggering 28% of voters by mail. When all the votes had been tallied, it once again accounted for more than a fifth of all ballots cast.
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"In recent weeks, there have been rare reports of myocarditis and pericarditis occurring after COVID-19 vaccination in the United States and Europe," the CDC had said in a statement."Reported cases appear to be mild and often go away without requiring treatment."Myocarditis and pericarditis are conditions that involve inflammation in and around the heart.Cases have been reported more often in males than in females, according to the CDC."The onset occurs more often following the second dose, typically within four days of receiving that shot"."Most cases go away on their own without patients knowing they ever had the condition," said Dr Steven Nissen, chief academic officer of the Heart, Vascular and Thoracic Institute at the Cleveland Clinic."Keep in mind that COVID itself can cause myocarditis. What we have is a disease that kills people, including young people, and a theoretical incidence of myocarditis," Nissen was quoted as saying in the report on Tuesday.A number of viruses can also cause myocarditis, including enteroviruses.Manesh Patel, chief of the division of cardiology at Duke University School of Medicine, said he's only seen one possible case, which he reported to the CDC.This kind of myocarditis "is usually sort of self-limiting, or improves as the heart gets better, even when it's inflamed", Patel was quoted as saying.Source: IANS
The project calls for a five-story building in front of the garage to be constructed by Peron Development and J.G. Petrucci Co. that would include 32 luxury apartments on the top floors and a store on the first floor, though that portion of the project is separate from the garage.
In 1943, Abraham Maslow, an American psychologist created a very famous pyramidal structure known as the Maslow Hierarchy of Needs which shed light on what exactly motivated people.

 iStock

Under the structure for humans, first came physiological needs (food and clothing), then safety needs (safety and security), love and belonging needs (relationships), esteem needs (feeling of accomplishment), and lastly self-actualization needs (achieving one's potential).



Now while the 78-year-old pyramid structure was applicable for the entire humanity, it looks like the super-rich in the world are going down the pyramid to cater to their safety needs again.

 iStock

According to new reports, amid the devastating Covid-19 pandemic, the super-rich people from China, Indonesia, Malaysia, India, and other countries are looking for safer havens and they have found Singapore as the place that will provide it.



The island city-state has long been an attractive destination for the super-rich who often come on short trips for shopping, medical check-ups, and playing at casinos.

 Casino

However, with the pandemic affecting countries across the world, many wealthy tycoons have been prompted into looking at Singapore as a destination for permanent residency.



"(For rich people) who can decide where they want to live and settle down, Singapore is a place of choice now," said Stephan Repkow, founder of Wealth Management Alliance.

He says that two of his foreign clients have already become Singapore residents, with many more planning to join them. According to data collected by the Johns Hopkins University, on a per capita basis, the mortality rates in Malaysia and Indonesia are more than 10 and 30 times higher than in Singapore, encouraging the super-wealthy to move to safer pastures.

 Business Times

Apart from this, under Singapore's vaccination program, it has given enough jabs for 30% of the population, which is also twice that of China and even more than that of Malaysia and Indonesia.



This, along with the luxury lifestyle of Singapore are said to be the key reasons why the world's super-rich consider the country their perfect residence, with Harish Bahl, founder of Smile Group, stating that he has never met so many super-rich in the city before.

 iStock

"Since the pandemic, billionaires from all over the world have been staying on longer in Singapore, including those from China, Indonesia, India, and the U.S.," said Bahl.


In a great display of grit and dedication, Firoz Aalam, Delhis newly Appointed ACP, has shown that although not always, hard work, and sheer determination, do pay off.



 BCCL

Back in 2011, Firoz Aalam had joined the Delhi Police as a constable with a PCR unit. After failing to clear the coveted exam 5 times, Firoz decided to take his final shot at the UPSC exam, and was finally able to pass.



 Drishti IAS

If you consider the fact that he was still appointed as a constable, and that he secured a very impressive rank of 645, it would seem that he passed on his last attempt with flying colours.



 ANI

Aalam, who had cleared the examination back in 2020, will be rejoining the Delhi Police soon, as an Assistant Commissioner Of Police in a few days, and will start his training.



IPS Officer & Deputy Commissioner Of Police, Harendra K Singh put this tweet out, congratulating ACP Aalam, and stating that Dreams never get old,desire to fulfill has to be young.

He joined @DelhiPolice as Constable in 2011 but the dream to make it big led to qualify #CivilServices.Firoz Aalam joining now as ACP in Delhi Police and begins his training tomorrow. Dreams never get old,desire to fulfill has to be young. @CPDelhi pic.twitter.com/1muOrCGIyf  HARENDRA K SINGH, IPS (@HarendraKS_IPS) May 25, 2021

Firoz Aalam sort of became an internet sensation last year when a video of his mock interview with a reputed training institute, went viral among UPSC aspirants.

In the video, Firoz comes across as earnest, knowledgeable in his core subjects, and honest.

Surely, members of the Delhi Police are joyous at the achievement of their colleague.

People, especially those who are involved with policing and maintaining law & order are also very excited as Aalams experience as a constable will allow him to bridge any existing gap between the ranks.

Coincidentally, Firozs story resembles the character arch of Imran Ansari from Paatal Lok, as portrayed by Ishwak Singh.

 Prime Video, ANI

Indian Twitter, too, was very proud of Firozs achievements. DCP Singhs Tweets, was inundated with comments wishing Firoz all the best for his assignment.



You are an example for youngsters . Proud of your achievement snd can understand what madness you had put to achieve this  prashant prakash (@prashan63032169) May 26, 2021

Good to see him rise, shine n fulfill his dreams. Mehnat Rang laayi. Will be an inspiration to many (from all religions). He will make many realise that Hardwork with Determination works. Happiness and Good Health Always.

Example of Secular India... Jaihind pic.twitter.com/fc9dupWa9Z  Sachin Sharma (@desifuntoosh) May 27, 2021

I saw his mock interview in 2020. Must admit that he has great knowledge and command over Hindi literature. Moreover I feel he has a better understanding of the system at the ground level. Hope he would be successful in bringing some changes in the system!  Chandan Bhat (@iamchandanbhat7) May 26, 2021

Yup, they have very similar stories.

Is this the one whose story was in Patal Lok  mubashsharhussain (@mubashshar1) May 27, 2021

I saw him in mock interview....he has tremendously balanced his views & knowledge and deserved to be an IPS. Inspiration, Charismatic personality indeed  RAQUIB IMRAN   (@raquibimran07) May 26, 2021

He already has strong practical training at base level...He knows all the problems difficulties best things happening with constables and other subordinate staff. May god give him best deeds to serve this nation more elegantly. Inspirational person..much respect  Naveen Naidu (@naveennaidu_luv) May 26, 2021

Proud moment for every aspirant who has big dreams. Keep trying even in your toughest days one day your dreams will come true.  yogesh kumar (@yogeshkumar53) May 26, 2021

If you ask us, this is the ultimate 10-year challenge. Try and beat that.
Meridian, MS (39302)

Today

Partly cloudy with afternoon showers or thunderstorms. High near 90F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 70F. Winds light and variable.
Meridian, MS (39302)

Today

Partly to mostly cloudy with a chance of thunderstorms. High 89F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Widely scattered showers or a thunderstorm this evening. Then partly cloudy. Low near 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%.
A year ago, U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey was probably the odds-on favorite to land the Republican nomination. At the time, the fiscal conservative was the only Republican holding statewide office. But in October, he surprised many by declaring he would seek neither the governors residence nor a third term in the Senate. Since then, Toomey has earned the ire of Trump supporters across the state by voting to impeach Trump for his role in the Jan. 6 insurrection. The vote cemented Toomeys upcoming departure from national politics as even Republicans in his home county voted to censure him.
This could bring massive changes to the operational landscape of the copper mining sector in Peru, the world's second copper producer. The proposed royalties would be similar to a proposal lately approved by the lower congress of Chile , the biggest global copper producer.

Rates could rise to 75% when copper prices exceed $4 per lb under the Chilean proposal, which could put half of Chilean copper mines at risk of shutting down if finalized, according to the head...
MSHDA awards $1.8 million in Neighborhood Enhancement Program grants

MSHDA awards $1.8 million in Neighborhood Enhancement Program grants

Media Contacts:

Katie Bach, BachK@michigan.gov

Anna Vicari, VicariA@michigan.gov

May 27, 2021

LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) awarded more than $1.8 million in Neighborhood Enhancement Program (NEP) grants to 43 local governments and nonprofit groups across Michigan to launch projects directly tied to improving and stabilizing communities. Projects will focus mainly on housing repairs and upgrades while some also will include neighborhood public amenity enhancements.

"As MSHDA works to support the improvement and stabilization of Michigan's neighborhoods, we are pleased to award this latest round of grants to local groups across the state as they help their communities through the completion of high-impact projects aimed at improving the quality of life for residents," said Tonya Young, Neighborhood Enhancement Team manager.

During this sixth round of issuing NEP grants, MSHDA allocated funds to 21 nonprofit agencies and 22 local units of government serving rural communities and urban neighborhoods. To become a grantee, organizations had to show a level of need and demonstrate that the proposed project will make a noticeable difference in the community and/or serve as a catalyst to promote neighborhood stability.

Residents should start noticing activity related to the grants in their communities this summer or fall and the projects should be complete by December 31, 2021.

The goal of this funding is to help-and eventually showcase-model Michigan neighborhoods where residents are taking the lead in facilitating change.

The grant awardees (with corresponding counties) are:

Allen Neighborhood Center (Ingham)

Grant Amount: $50,000 Bethany/Community EnCompass (Muskegon)

Grant Amount: $37,135 Alpena County (Alpena)

Grant Amount: $37,125 City of Beaverton (Gladwin)

Grant Amount: $39,600 City of Coldwater (Branch)

Grant Amount: $40,000 City of Dowagiac (Cass)

Grant Amount: $75,000 City of Eaton Rapids (Eaton)

Grant Amount: $40,000 City of Grand Haven (Ottawa)

Grant Amount: $29,000 City of Hancock (Houghton)

Grant Amount: $16,500 City of Highland Park (Wayne)

Grant Amount: $75,000 City of Ironwood (Gogebic)

Grant Amount: $30,000 City of Lapeer (Lapeer)

Grant Amount: $54,998 City of Madison Heights (Oakland)

Grant Amount: $25,000 City of Montrose (Genesee)

Grant Amount: $30,000 City of Mt. Pleasant (Isabella)

Grant Amount: $30,000 City of Owosso (Shiawassee)

Grant Amount: $41,250 City of Vassar (Tuscola)

Grant Amount: $30,000 Crawford County (Crawford)

Grant Amount: $75,000 Village of Cassopolis (Cass)

Grant Amount: $45,000 Village of Colon (St. Joseph County)

Grant Amount: $20,000 Village of Mancelona (Antrim)

Grant Amount: $30,000 Village of Paw Paw (Van Buren)

Grant Amount: $75,000 Bridging Communities (Wayne)

Grant Amount: $50,000 Capital Area Housing Partnership, Ingham

Grant Amount: $75,000 Gogebic-Ontonagon CAA (Gogebic)

Grant Amount: $30,000 Heritage Works (Wayne)

Grant Amount: $41,250 HOPE Village Revitalization (Wayne)

Grant Amount: $50,000 Jefferson East, Inc. (Wayne)

Grant Amount: $50,000 Joy Southfield CDC (Wayne)

Grant Amount: $16,500 KNHS (Kalamazoo)

Grant Amount: $74,989 LifeBUILDERS (Wayne)

Grant Amount: $50,000 Midtown Detroit, Inc. (Wayne)

Grant Amount: $50,000 NCCS Center for Nonprofit Housing (Newaygo)

Grant Amount: $25,000 New Development Corporation (Kent)

Grant Amount: $50,000 Ogemaw County (Ogemaw)

Grant Amount: $75,000 Rebuilding Together SE Michigan (Wayne)

Grant Amount: $30,000 Sinai-Grace Guild CDC (Wayne)

Grant Amount: $25,000 Southwest Housing Solutions (Wayne)

Grant Amount: $25,000 Southwestern Michigan Urban League (Calhoun)

Grant Amount: $50,000 Venture Inc. (Oakland)

Grant Amount: $45,500 Wayne County Land Bank / Highland Park (Wayne)

Grant Amount: $40,000 Wayne Metro CAA / Highland Park (Wayne)

Grant Amount: $50,000 Woodbridge NDC, (Wayne)

Grant Amount: $50,000

MSHDA Mission

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), established in 1966, serves the people of Michigan by partnering to provide quality housing that is affordable, a cornerstone of diverse, thriving communities.

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EGLE Success Story: Ludington splash pad's chlorinated wastewater stays out of the lake, kids will enjoy fun in the sun all summer

EGLE Success Story: Ludington splash pad's chlorinated wastewater stays out of the lake, kids will enjoy fun in the sun all summer

As the weather warms up after a long, cold winter, thoughts of frolicking at a nearby beach begins to warm the hearts of many Michiganders. For youngsters, that often means spending time not just in the sand and surf, but also at a nearby splash pad.

Splash pads can be found in communities or parks around the state as an amenity for water lovers looking for a way to cool off on hot Michigan summer days. Before the refreshing water can flow, though, planners need to make sure they are properly handling the wastewater that drains from the play area.

Depending on how the play area is designed, the chlorinated water that splashes and sprays to users' delight could require a discharge permit. The facility doesn't need a permit if the drainage is routed to the municipal wastewater treatment plant. A permit may be necessary if the splash pad's water is discharged to the ground.

In a third scenario, a permit is most likely necessary if the splash pad drains directly into a nearby water body. That's because the chlorine in the wastewater could have detrimental effects on the aquatic life and health of the surface water into which it is being discharged. That is the situation Jake Riley of EGLE's Cadillac District Office came across in Ludington, where the city's splash pad was draining into nearby Pere Marquette Lake.

Riley had received a complaint about the splash pad the city was installing and determined that a detailed investigation was necessary. Riley inspected the site and consulted with city's planners and contractor about how to handle the wastewater discharge. Based on his experience and research, Riley concluded that the city would need a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit if it intended to continue sending the splash pad drainage into the lake.

After offering potential options that would protect Pere Marquette Lake, Riley, the city and the contractor worked out a solution that is satisfactory for everyone. Ludington decided to make system improvements that will send the splashpad wastewater to the city's wastewater treatment plant when the splashpad is in use and send storm water to the lake when the splashpad is not in operation.

"This ended up being a great solution for the city and the environment, as Pere Marquette Lake will not see a discharge of chlorinated splash pad water and the wastewater plant will not be overwhelmed with clean stormwater," Riley said. "Overall, the City of Ludington was very responsive and it was great to work with them to find a solution that worked for them and the environment."

Riley's diligence in helping to solve the issue highlights the dedication EGLE employees have to protecting the environment and Michigan's water resources. And Ludington's outdoor enthusiasts will not miss a day at the beach as a result.

Communities that have a splash pad or are considering installing one should consult with their local EGLE District Office on the need for potential discharge permits.

Photo caption: Children enjoy the Ludington Splash Pad on a warm, summer day in 2020.

Like this content? Follow us on Twitter at @MichiganEGLE or on Youtube.com/MichiganEGLE

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Former U.P. Priest Sentenced to Prison Following Abuse Plea

Former U.P. Priest Sentenced to Prison Following Abuse Plea

Lynsey Mukomel 517-599-2746 Attorney General

May 27, 2021

LANSING - An Ontonagon County judge handed down the harshest prison sentence yet in the Michigan Attorney General's clergy abuse investigation.

Last month, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced a plea agreement with Gary Jacobs, a former priest in the Upper Peninsula who faced cases in both Ontonagon and Dickinson Counties. The plea hearing in Dickinson County happened earlier this month.

The Ontonagon sentencing, which happened before Circuit Court Judge Michael Pope earlier this week, involves guilty pleas on three counts of criminal sexual conduct 1st degree and one count of criminal sexual conduct 2nd degree.

As reached in the plea agreement, Jacobs was sentenced between eight and 15 years on each count, which will run concurrently.

Additionally, Jacobs will be required to complete:

lifetime sex offender registration related to the CSC 1st degree counts;

tier II registration on the CSC 2nd degree charge;

sex offender counseling; and

lifetime electronic monitoring when released.

"A lengthy prison sentence will never erase the pain Mr. Jacobs inflicted on those who trusted him, but it serves as an example of our pursuit of justice related to clergy abuse and, hopefully, can provide some sense of relief," Nessel said. "We are indebted to those who came forward to make him accountable for his actions. Their courage to speak up is what drove these proceedings, so that while justice was delayed, it was certainly not denied."

It was also important to the Attorney General's clergy abuse team that survivors of Jacobs' abuse be heard if they so chose. Nine people submitted or read victim impact statements during the sentencing.

"I believe child sexual abuse is worse than murder. Once you are dead you are finished. When you are abused, you endure the mental anguish for the rest of your life. The sexual abuse that [Gary Jacobs] inflicted on me has interfered and destroyed my life. The ripple effects of this man's crime against me as a boy are still present and he must be held accountable by serving his maximum sentence," one survivor said.

Two of the survivors were willing to share their full statements while staying anonymous.

You can read the statements by clicking the links to each below:

A sentencing date in Dickinson County is set for Friday, July 2nd at 12 p.m. EST. That guilty plea involves one count of criminal sexual conduct 2nd degree.

This project was supported in part by Grant No. WE AX 0030 awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women.
Following a one-year break due to the pandemic, the Ladys Slipper Festival returns to Huron County Nature Center May 30, marking the kickoff for the summer season at the center.

This year, 2021, will be the 20th anniversary of the Ladys Slipper Festival, and the 80th anniversary of the protection of the land itself, said Kathy Kent, president of the Huron County Nature Center board of directors. The land was set aside by the county in 1941, and the Huron County Womens Clubs oversaw the park until 1991, when the Huron County Nature Center was founded.

Due to ongoing concerns regarding the pandemic, the festival will see some changes this year.

Were calling this a slimmed down festival, Kent said. We will have vendors, music  Finnegans Cross will play at the nature centers outdoor amphitheater  but the only food for sale will be fruit, packaged snacks, and we will probably have fruit juice and water. We are also planning a kids craft table, and will have tree cookie necklaces.

There will also be a special event in conjunction with this years festival; new hiking and biking trails will open to the public. Consisting of five attached loops, only the first three will open during the festival.

We are opening Loops 1, 2, and 3  Loops 4 and 5 still need to be cleared, Kent said. Opening the trail was a long-term effort for the board, and for some very dedicated volunteers who have been involved in every stage, from planning to clearing trails.

A new trail sign will be unveiled during the festival, along with a sign dedicated to the volunteers who helped clear the trail and the groups and individuals who helped finance the boardwalks.

It is the boards intention to finish work on Loops 4 and 5 in the fall. Volunteers are invited to contact the nature center, if theyre interested in helping complete the trails.

Right now the full trail will be shared by hikers and bikers, Kent said. It is our hope that both groups will make room for each other, and all will enjoy it safely.

Signs have been installed to direct the flow of traffic.

While the original trail system is 1.82 miles, the new trails boast a total of 3.7 miles.

I encourage folks to visit the Michigan Trail Maps website, www.michigantrailmaps.com, to see the great map they created of the new trail, Kent said.

The new trails, as well as the original trail system, will be open from dawn to dusk throughout the year.

In addition to the Ladys Slipper Festival returning, the board of directors of the nature center is also excited to announce that a full schedule of programs are planned; there were no events last year, due to the pandemic.

The schedule is on our website, www.huronnaturecenter.org, Kent said. Our board of directors will be monitoring public health and safety recommendations throughout the summer, making decisions about our program schedule with those recommendations in mind. Naturally, were all hoping for a safe summer, since we had to cancel all of our festivals and programs in 2020.

In addition to the programs and events, there have been noteworthy improvements at the nature center over the last year.

We have added a welcome desk area right next to our front door in the nature center building, where a volunteer will be seated, ready to answer questions, Kent said. There is also a wildlife viewing window and seating area with a speaker system that will allow viewers to not only see visiting birds  we have installed feeders outside the window  but to hear them as well. A grant from the Bad Axe Rotary Club funded the whole project.

There is also a new nature-based library and reading area. The childrens play area was moved within the building to the former location of the gift shop.

Local artist, Jean Sommers, has painted a lovely woodland mural in the new childrens play area, Kent said. There are also two new exhibits; 'Avian Forest' will highlight native birds and their habitats, and the 'Vernal Pool.' That exhibit is a cross-section of a vernal pool, and displays the plants, animals, and insects that live there. They are both fantastic exhibits, but the 'Vernal Pool' is amazing.

Both exhibits were designed by nature center naturalist and board member Caitlin Stone-Webber, and constructed by board member Jim Warchall. Murals were added by Jean Sommers.

There will also be interactive iPad kiosks for both exhibits, with lots of information about the plants and animals in each, Kent said.

The improvements dont end there.

Just outside the building, in the amphitheater area, is our new Caterpillar House, Kent said. This octagon-shaped kiosk will house caterpillars through their full life-cycle, from egg to caterpillar to moth or butterfly, and will be highlighted in one of our summer programs. It was built by Jim Warchall, with funding from a Greater Huron County United Way grant.

In the past, the nature center building housed a full gift shop. It has been downsized.

The gift shop is transitioning from a full store to more of a smaller display of items for sale that will include our beautiful new logo, Kent said. The display of items for sale will be part of our new welcome desk, so it will be available during our weekend hours, which are Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This schedule will essentially be every weekend from May 30 to Aug. 21.

The board of directors has worked hard to ensure the nature center runs smoothly, despite the setback of a worldwide pandemic. Its objective is to provide an enlightening and interesting venue for the public.

We are working on a new five-year plan that will develop and refine our mission, Kent said. The plan includes the expansion of our visitor center building, improvements and repair of our existing walking trail boardwalks, additions to our educational programs, and attaining the secure financial position that will allow us to eventually hire several full-time staff members to run the nature center.

These are ambitious plans that will require a great deal of involvement and support from our community; we want to make the nature center not only a prime visitor attraction in Huron County, but also a resource for our schools to teach students about the amazing ecosystems in their own backyard. There is great potential here for the nature center to be not only a recreational destination, but a year-round source of educational programming, as well.

In order to enable this plan to come to fruition, financial support is necessary, as are people to maintain and improve the nature center.

We are starting outreach to the community for volunteers  for work at the welcome desk, working on trail maintenance, help with media promotions, help with upkeep of our walking trail boardwalks, and pretty much every aspect of running the nature center, Kent said. Donations are the largest source of funding for our operations and summer programs, and they are always welcome.

Our website has a PayPal donate button, but anyone can contact us at hello@huronnaturecenter.org, or call 989-551-8400, if they are interested in donating or have questions.

The Huron County Nature Center, located at 3336 Loosemore Road, near Oak Beach, will be the site of the 2021 Ladys Slipper Festival. The event, which was canceled last year due to the pandemic, will take place on Sunday, May 30, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
MIDDLETOWN  One artists canvas this week is the middle of Main Street, as he carefully strokes paint onto the brick crosswalk downtown, rejuvenating the colorful, mirror-image Quasar Pride flag in time for its dedication.

Half the road has been blocked off in front of Main Street Market since Tuesday so Kendall Soliwoda can work on the project safely amid bustling traffic, while passersby stop to watch, or even remark about the piece.

I have a strong emotional response to color, and I feel like thats a really unifying theme, said the city native, 30, who runs KRS Studios. Even though people may have a preference for certain colors over others, the love of the way they come together is a universal thing.

Soliwodas grandmother, who used to draw caricatures and other designs with him when he was a child, engendered his love of art, according to the Middletown High School graduate.

I try to use color to convey emotion. [His work is] more expressionist, something that connects with you in a different way, he said.

Kendall is an active member of and employee at the New Britain Museum of Art, according to his website.

The crosswalk, which first appeared last November in Middletown, has become a sort of a gateway to the city, and advertisement for the annual Pride event, which this year will take place June 5 and 6, with related activities throughout the month.

It says we are an inclusive city, and we want to wear that on our sleeve, Mayor Ben Florsheim told said last November.

The original artist, Brian Colbath, gave Soliwoda the renderings he used to design the crosswalk, which is similar to the Pride mural Colbath created in West Hartford center.

I had a lot of homework over the past two weeks, Soliwoda said with a laugh.

Soliwoda was connected with Middletown Arts Coordinator Kisha Michael through his friend and fellow artist Pierre Sylvain, whose art is among the citys collection.

Soliwoda, who graduated from Central Connecticut State University in New Britain with a degree in marketing and fine arts, said he is mostly self-taught.

Its a humbling feeling to have been chosen to complete such a visual and signature endeavor for Middletown, Soliwoda said. Im really excited to see more projects like this happen downtown. This is a great catalyst for development in so many different ways.

It allows people to have a sense of ownership in the community, too, and thats really important, Soliwoda said.

He has enjoyed many signs of support from people going about their day. It helps to bring business to the restaurants. With COVID, having things that bring about more tourism, instead of shopping online ... that stuff is important, too.

The crosswalk is very eye-catching, the artist pointed out. A lot of people are drawn to it, he said.

A couple passersby have commented his efforts are a waste, referring to the impermanence of street art, Soliwoda said.

In fact, this particular one is not. The original design, which was done in exterior latex paint, faded quickly, due to weather and snow removal, the artist said. It was challenging to find paint that could withstand such high use.

This time, we used traffic paint, so it should be a bit more resilient, Soliwoda said.

Everyone involved in the crosswalks design has been concerned about its longevity, especially considering road salt used during inclement weather and wear and tear, Soliwoda said. However, since traffic paint can last as long as two years, that worry has dissipated.

Any time your art can be in a public place, and people can experience it in their everyday life, thats the ultimate goal, Soliwoda said.

A dedication, featuring local officials and Middletown Pride 2021 grand marshals, will be held at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday.
Marking the last of his regular COVID press briefings on Thursday, Gov. Ned Lamont touted the states accomplishments over the past 14 months of the pandemic, but stopped short of declaring total victory over the virus that has been linked to more than 8,200 deaths in the state.

A high percentage of people are vaccinated, while new infections and hospitalizations  metrics that defined the decision making during the pandemic  have slowed, according to officials. But with variants circulating and more people to get vaccinated, it appeared to state leaders that the work wasnt quite finished.

[President] George W. Bush got on the aircraft carrier in what turned out to be the third ending in the war in Iraq and he had a big mission accomplished sign behind him, Lamont said.

Are we being a little premature here? he asked his COVID briefings three guests  former FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, Yale epidemiologist Dr. Albert Ko and former PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi.

Gottlieb said the state has reached an interim victory.

I think that the next round of COVID and how we grapple with it is going to look different, said Gottlieb, offering optimism when he said residents could look forward to a summer with lower risks.

The governors remarks came as the state recorded a daily positivity rate of just over 1 percent on Thursday, with 157 new COVID cases found out of 14,823 tests. Hospitalizations rose by one patient, bringing the statewide number to 123. Three more deaths brought the official death toll to 8,230.

Im most proud of the team we put together, Lamont said, when asked to reflect on his successes and failures during the pandemic. I think that got us off on a good start.

But the governor also said he wished the state had been able to put testing infrastructure in place sooner, and had responded to the virus faster at the states nursing homes, where the majority of Connecticuts COVID-related deaths occurred.

Despite the state allowing people who are fully vaccinated to go without a mask in most indoor settings as of last week, officials admitted it may be some time before people feel comfortable doing so.

Gottlieb said he still wears a mask to the pharmacy or grocery store as a matter of etiquette to those around him.

As of Thursday, a little more than 52 percent of Connecticuts roughly 3.6 million residents were considered fully vaccinated, while about 63 percent of the total population have received at least one dose of vaccine, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

But the governor also acknowledged there are still pockets of the population where vaccinations are lagging, particular in young adults and communities of color.

The answer is were gonna keep going and were not going to let up, until those who are hesitant have their questions answered and concerns allayed, said Deidre Gifford, acting commissioner of the state Department of Public Health. She said the biggest focus is on distributing the vaccines to those who have not yet received them.

Josh Geballe, the states chief operating officer, said Connecticut has had less success with door-to-door canvassers attempting to get people vaccinated. Now those workers will shift toward meeting people at large events and areas where people gather. Were starting to see some early results from that, he said.

The discussion around vaccines marked a sign of how far the state had come from a year ago. Ko, the Yale epidemiologist who also co-chaired the governors reopening committee, recalled that he was in a morgue examining slides from a young victim of COVID-19 when he got the governors call last year.

If theres anything that we learned, Ko said, it was that governance made a big difference in outcomes in this pandemic.

Nooyi recalled very dark days when she and Ko first began working on the states reopening plan. The two were able to teach each other on their respective expertise, she said.

Despite the upbeat tone of his final regular COVID-19 briefing, the governor said the state is not taking our foot off the accelerator on vaccinations. He also acknowledged the threat posed by new variants of the virus that could potentially escape the bodys immune response from the vaccines.

Look, Im the guy that said no mission accomplished banners. Weve gotta be very vigilant going forward, Lamont said, stressing the state does not plan to stop watching the COVID-19 metrics.

The reason youre outside, the reason were having fun, the reason youre able to go to a restaurant is cause people have gotten vaccinated and it works, he said.
LACEY'S SPRING, Ala. (AP)  The search for a north Alabama man and 16-year-old girl who was reportedly abducted ended hours later with the man in custody and the juvenile safe.

Police issued an alert for Adam Dexter Wilson, 36, after a girl he knew was taken by a man at gunpoint from a home near Lacey's Spring around lunchtime on Wednesday. Authorities said they considered the teen to be in extreme danger.
The grand jury found enough evidence to determine that Green was responsible for providing the drugs that caused the Feb. 28, 2020, death of Tanner Bibeau, 34. Authorities say Bibeau was found dead at his home in the 2300 block of Hannahs Lane in Bethlehem Township.
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP)  Marijuana arrests in Missouri state parks dropped nearly 60% last year after changes in enforcement policies prompted by the legalization of medical marijuana.

The Department of Natural Resources said 51 people were arrested in 2020 for possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana/synthetics in state parks, a decline from 120 similar arrests in 2019.
BILOXI, Miss. (AP)  A Mississippi police department says that because its investigation continues, it will not now disclose who fired the bullet that killed a baby earlier this month as multiple law enforcement officers shot at the child's father.

The Sun Herald filed a public records request with the Biloxi Police Department, which is investigating the May 3 shooting that included officers from multiple other Mississippi agencies.

Mississippi Highway Patrol troopers, Gulfport police and Harrison County deputies pursued a car driven by Eric Derell Smith on Interstate 10 after the car crossed over from Louisiana to Mississippi. Smith, 30, was suspected of killing the baby's mother and one other person in Baker, Louisiana, and then taking 3-month-old La'Mello Parker.

The newspaper reported Thursday that investigators have received results of a forensic test on the bullet that killed La'Mello.

You know, I cant discuss that, Biloxi Police Chief John Miller told the Sun Herald, citing the agency's continuing investigation.

In response to the public records request, an attorney for Biloxi police provided three pages of an incident report, but excluded two other pages cited as being exempt from public disclosure because they are investigative reports.

The redacted report shows Mississippi authorities got involved after they received a May 3 complaint from the East Baton Rouge Sheriffs Office. The incident report contains only one sentence: known subject (Smith) was a wanted fugitive from justice and discovered to be in possession of a kidnapped child.

The victim is listed as a missing person, with the name redacted. Louisiana police identified the baby as kidnapped and missing that morning.

The Biloxi NAACP and Black Lives Matter Mississippi have both demanded that law enforcement officers give the public access to videos and other materials related to the fatal shootings of Smith and the baby, who were both Black.

Authorities wanted to arrest and charge Smith in the killing of his ex-girlfriend, Christin Parker, and her nephew, Brandon Parker, 26.

Videos from drivers on the interstate show officers fired over 20 rounds into the car. Miller has said the officers started shooting after Smith shot at them. Smith died at the scene, and La'Mello died the next day in an Alabama hospital. An autopsy determined the baby died of a single gunshot wound.

Investigators have not said whether any officers were wearing body cameras at the time. Biloxi police are investigating because none of that departments officers were involved. Biloxi Police Major Chris DeBack said results of the investigation would be given to the district attorney's office.
We can only pray, raise our words, and donate to help the back-breaking plight of innocent souls lost, orphaned, displaced, imprisoned or worse to war crimes, tyrannical conflicts over land, dividing sectarianism, debilitating boycotts, and shameful injustices in apartheid Palestine, Yemen, Kashmir, Rohingya, Xinjiang, Pakistan and Syria to name a few. Its no secret that the oppressive weapons used in these torn countries are largely from the United States of America.

Is there then a compassionate, unifying leadership whose scope has no borders and whose principles rest on honesty, justice, reconciliation, bridging social disparities and peace rather than worldly gains at humanitys cost? This is what Palestinian Muslims are chanting for from their rubbled streets seeking restoration. This is what the larger Muslim Ummah or people have been begging for since the departure of the rightly guided Rashideen Khalifahs after Prophet Muhammad, expanding the spiritual and secular dynasty, the building of empires, interfaith and interdisciplinary harmony, knowledge, enlightenment, cooperation, growth and economic development.

As an Ahmadi Muslim I point you towards the glad tiding of that selfless leadership you seek. Its actually been here for 113 years and has been advising and warning the world and world leaders on how to govern with the Quranic ideals of justice, kindness and kinship or be responsible for the crippling natural and manmade responses that would erupt. This healing leadership is called Khilafat or Vicegerence as is promised in the Holy Quran: Allah has promised to those among you who believe and do good works that He will surely make them Successors (Caliphs) in the earth, as He made Successors from among those who were before them ... and that He will surely give them in exchange security and peace after their fear ... Then whoever is ungrateful after that, they will be rebellious (24:56).

So where is the true Caliph today? Firstly, theres two types of Caliphate. One is that of Gods in the person of Prophets and Messengers from father Adam to King David to Jesus Christ to Prophet Muhammad and more recently Messiah Ahmad. Prophet Muhammad instructs Muslims to take the oath of allegiance at the hand of the Imam Mahdi when he comes in the later days even if you have to crawl over icy mountains to reach him as he would be the Khalifah of Allah. God chooses and appoints them directly from the unseen.

Two is the Successorship of Prophets and Messengers like Joshua was to Moses, James to Jesus, Hazrat Abu Bakr to Prophet Muhammad. This office is usually based on election by the people, and indirect Divine appointment.

In his book Al Wasiyyat the Will, Messiah Ahmad prophesied a second and longer lasting Divine Manifestation of Allahs power that would remain until Judgment Day. This would fulfill the same Caliphate Prophet Muhammad foretold 14 centuries prior in the famous Hadith; Prophethood shall remain among you as long as Allah wills. He will bring about its end and follow it with Khilafat on the precepts of prophethood for as long as He wills and then bring about its end. A tyrannical monarchy will then follow and will remain as long as Allah wills and then come to an end. Thereafter will follow monarchial despotism to last as long as Allah wills and come to an end upon His decree. There will then re-emerge Khilafat on the precepts of Prophethood.

It is in this light that millions of Ahmadi Muslims like me who believe the Messiah and Mahdi has come in Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad will celebrate 113 years of blessed Khilafat on May 27. After Messiah Ahmads peaceful passing at the age of 73 witnessing his distant progeny and amassing over 400,000 followers, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Communitys electoral college chose Hazrat Maulvi Nooruddin, with whom Allah is pleased, as the the Messiahs First Caliph. Since then the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has gained strength under four more Caliphs on the precepts of prophethood despite the cruelest state-sanctioned persecution in our apartheid mother country Pakistan. Our present Khalifah, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, hailed as the champion of peace by anyone that knows his services, himself patiently, prayerfully braved time in a Pakistani prison only because of his Ahmadi identity.

In an age of unprecedented division and unspeakable horrors faced by Muslims and our neighbors in the Middle East, Asia and even Western countries, its time our siblings recognize the peace-loving leadership destined to stay and give up the false expectation of a bloodthirsty Messiah and Caliphate that would reign violently with the sword. I invite you to study and pray with an open heart before you miss what the ungrateful ones of the old missed in the lifetime of the Prophets, Messengers, and Messiahs of the old. We know what was the end of those who exceeded the limits before us, lets not force that destiny on those wholl inherit the earth after us.

With God's peace and blessings.

Zahir Muhammad Mannan of Middletown is chaplain of the Connecticut State Police and Meriden Police Department and director of outreach at the Aman Mosque in Meriden.
A co-founder of Black Lives Matter announced Thursday that she is stepping down as executive director of the movements foundation. She decried what she called a smear campaign from a far-right group, but said neither that nor recent criticism from other Black organizers influenced her departure.

Patrisse Cullors, who has been at the helm of the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation for nearly six years, said she is leaving to focus on other projects, including the upcoming release of her second book and a multi-year TV development deal with Warner Bros. Her last day with the foundation is Friday.

Ive created the infrastructure and the support, and the necessary bones and foundation, so that I can leave, Cullors told The Associated Press. It feels like the time is right.

Cullors departure follows a massive surge in support and political influence in the U.S. and around the world for the BLM movement, which was established nearly eight years ago in response to injustice against Black Americans. The resignation also comes on the heels of controversy over the foundations finances and over Cullors personal wealth.

The 37-year-old activist said her resignation has been in the works for more than a year and has nothing to do with the personal attacks she has faced from far-right groups or any dissension within the movement.

Those were right-wing attacks that tried to discredit my character, and I dont operate off of what the right thinks about me, Cullors said.

As she departs, the foundation is bringing aboard two new interim senior executives to help steer it in the immediate future: Monifa Bandele, a longtime BLM organizer and founder of the Malcolm X Grassroots Movement in New York City, and Makani Themba, an early backer of the BLM movement and chief strategist at Higher Ground Change Strategies in Jackson, Mississippi.

I think both of them come with not only a wealth of movement experience, but also a wealth of executive experience, Cullors said.

The BLM foundation revealed to the AP in February that it took in just over $90 million last year, following the May 2020 murder of George Floyd, a Black man whose last breaths under the knee of a white Minneapolis police officer inspired protests globally. The foundation said it ended 2020 with a balance of more than $60 million, after spending nearly a quarter of its assets on operating expenses, grants to Black-led organizations and other charitable giving.

Critics of the foundation contend more of that money should have gone to the families of Black victims of police brutality who have been unable to access the resources needed to deal with their trauma and loss.

That is the most tragic aspect, said the Rev. T. Sheri Dickerson, president of an Oklahoma City BLM chapter and a representative of the #BLM10, a national group of organizers that has publicly criticized the foundation over funding and transparency.

I know some of (the families) are feeling exploited, their pain exploited, and that's not something that I ever want to be affiliated with," Dickerson said.

Cullors and the foundation have said they do support families without making public announcements or disclosing dollar amounts.

In 2020, the BLM foundation spun off its network of chapters as a sister collective called BLM Grassroots, so that it could build out its capacity as a philanthropic organization. Although many groups use Black Lives Matter or BLM in their names, less than a dozen are considered affiliates of the chapter network.

Last month, Cullors was targeted by several conservative-leaning publications that falsely alleged she took a large annual salary from the foundation, affording her recent purchase of a southern California home.

In April, the foundation stated Cullors was a volunteer executive director who, prior to 2019, had received a total of $120,000 since the organizations inception in 2013, for duties such as serving as spokesperson and engaging in political education work.

As a registered 501c3 non-profit organization, (the foundation) cannot and did not commit any organizational resources toward the purchase of personal property by any employee or volunteer, the foundation said in a statement. Any insinuation or assertion to the contrary is categorically false.

In 2018, Cullors released, When They Call You a Terrorist: A Black Lives Matter Memoir, which became a New York Times bestseller. She has also consulted on a number of racial justice projects outside of BLM, taking compensation for that work in her personal capacity.

She and the BLM movement have come a long way since its inception as a social media hashtag, following the 2013 acquittal of George Zimmerman, the neighborhood watch volunteer who killed 17-year-old Trayvon Martin in Florida.

Cullors, along with BLM co-founders Alicia Garza and Opal Tometi, pledged then to build a decentralized movement governed by consensus of a members collective. In 2015, a network of chapters was formed, while donations and support poured in. Garza and Tometi soon stepped away from day-to-day involvement in the network to focus on their own projects.

Cullors, who has arguably been the most publicly visible of the co-founders, became the foundations full-time executive director last year purely out of necessity, she said.

We needed her, said Melina Abdullah, who leads BLM Grassroots and co-founded, with Cullors, BLMs first-ever official chapter in Los Angeles.

George Floyd was killed and the whole world rose up, Abdullah told the AP. I would like her to be there forever, but I also know that thats not feasible. The real test of any organization is can it survive the departure of its founders. And I have no question that Black Lives Matter will survive and grow and evolve, even with the departure of our final co-founder in a formal role.

On Oct. 5, St. Martin's Press will release Cullors latest book, titled An Abolitionists Handbook, which she says is her guide for activists on how to care for each other and resolve internal conflict while fighting to end systemic racism. Cullors is also developing and producing original cable and streaming TV content that centers on Black stories, under a multi-year deal with Warner Bros.

The first of her TV projects will debut in July, she said.

I think I will probably be less visible, because I wont be at the helm of one of the largest, most controversial organizations right now in the history of our movement, Cullors said.

Im aware that Im a leader, and I dont shy away from that. But no movement is one leader.

____

Morrison is a member of APs Race and Ethnicity team. Follow him on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/aaronlmorrison.
SALEM, Ore. (AP)  Wearing soot-smudged, fire-resistant clothing and helmets, several wildland firefighters armed with hoes moved through a stand of ponderosa pines as flames tore through the underbrush.

The firefighters werent there to extinguish the fire. They had started it.

The prescribed burn, ignited this month near the scenic mountain town of Bend, is part of a massive effort in wildlands across the U.S. West to prepare for a fire season thats expected to be even worse than last years record-shattering one.

The U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management have thinned by hand, machines and prescribed burns about 1.8 million acres (728,000 hectares) of forest and brushland since last season, officials from the agencies told The Associated Press. They typically treat some 3 million (1.2 million hectares) acres every year.

All that activity, though, has barely scratched the surface. The federal government owns roughly 640 million acres (260 million hectares) in the U.S. All but 4% of it lies in the West, including Alaska, with some of it unsuitable for prescribed burning.

All these steps are in the right direction, but the challenge is big and complex, said John Bailey, professor of silviculture and fire management at Oregon State University. And more needs to be done to even turn the corner.

The efforts face a convergence of bleak forces.

Severe drought has turned forests and grasslands into dry fuels, ready to ignite from a careless camper or a lightning strike. More people are building in areas bordering wildlands, expanding the so-called wildland-urban interface, an area where wildfires impact people the most. Invasive, highly flammable vegetation is spreading uncontrolled across the West.

Im seeing probably the worst combination of conditions in my lifetime, said Derrick DeGroot, a county commissioner in southern Oregons Klamath County. We have an enormous fuel load in the forests, and we are looking at a drought unlike weve seen probably in the last 115 years.

Asked how worried he is about the 2021 fire season, DeGroot said: On a scale of 1 to 10, Im a 12. Nothing looks good.

In other prevention measures in the West, utility companies are removing vegetation around power lines and are ready to impose blackouts when those lines threaten to spark a fire.

Armies of firefighters are being beefed up. And communities are offering incentives for residents to make their own properties fire-resistant.

Still, much work remains to change the region's trajectory with fire, particularly in two key areas, said Scott Stephens, professor of wildland fire science at the University of California, Berkeley.

One is getting people better prepared for the inevitability of fire in areas like the wildland-urban interface. That includes new construction, he said. "And the second is getting our ecosystems better prepared for climate change and fire impacts.

On the local level, individuals and communities need to create defensible spaces and evacuation plans, he said. On the government level, more resources need to go toward managing forests.

I think weve got one to two decades," Stephens said. "If we dont do this in earnest, were frankly just going to be watching the forest change right in front of our eyes from fire, climate change, drought, insects, things of that nature.

Part of the issue is that increasing wildfire resilience often requires trade-offs, said Erica Fleishman, professor at Oregon State Universitys College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences.

Cities or states could require defensible spaces around homes. Building codes could call for fire-resistant materials. That would drive up construction costs but also mean homes would be less likely to burn and need rebuilding, she said.

The insurance industry and the building industry and communities and lawmakers are all going to need to have the will to create these changes, she said.

Fleishman also believes more prescribed fires could be conducted in the wildland-urban interface, but said society is risk averse.

Right now, theres not, in many cases, a whole lot of will to do it, she said.

Prescribed burns target vegetation that carries flames into forest canopies, where they can explode into massive wildfires.

Planning and preparing for them can take two to five years. And carrying them out is a never-ending task, said Jessica Gardetto, spokeswoman for the National Interagency Fire Center, in Boise, Idaho.

While targeting one forest, other forests continue to grow, creating this vast buildup across the landscape, she said.

Besides overgrown forests, the West faces a newer threat: cheatgrass, which grows prolifically after a wildfire and becomes incredibly flammable.

Gardetto said trying to get rid of the invasive grass is like the endless toil of Sisyphus, the Greek mythological figure who was forced to roll a boulder up a hill, only for it to roll down as it neared the top, over and over again.

After a fire is put out, the first thing to come back is cheatgrass.

It starts this horrible cycle that is really difficult to combat, she said.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom and U.S. Forest Service Chief Vicki Christiansen signed an agreement last August committing the state and the federal agency to scale up treatment of forest and wildlands to 1 million acres (405,000 hectares) annually by 2025.

They have a long way to reach that goal. Cal Fire, a state agency responsible for protecting over 31 million acres (12.5 million hectares) of Californias privately owned wildlands, treated some 20,000 acres (8,100 hectares) with prescribed fire and thinning from last summer through March.

Meanwhile, California increased the number of seasonal firefighters by almost 50%, according to Lynne Tolmachoff, spokeswoman for Cal Fire.

With the fire season getting longer each year, Colorado lawmakers last spring allocated about $3 million to increase staffing at the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control, said Mike Morgan, its director.

Historically, wildland firefighters were college students. Theyd get out of school on Memorial Day, theyd go fight fire, and theyd go back to school on Labor Day, Morgan said. Well, now were having fires every month of the year, and so we need firefighters year-round.

The Bureau of Land Management is transforming its seasonal firefighting force to fulltime with a $13 million budget increase, Gardetto said.

Despite all these efforts, warnings are going out telling people to be ready for the worst.

The Oregon Office of Emergency Management advised residents on Monday to have a bag packed and have an evacuation plan.

Abnormally dry conditions and pre-season fires on the landscape are causing concern for the 2021 wildfire season, the agency said. Now is the time for Oregonians to prepare themselves, their families and their homes for wildfire.

___

Associated Press writers Don Thompson in Sacramento, California; Thomas Peipert in Denver; and Daisy Nguyen in San Francisco contributed to this report.

___

Follow Selsky on Twitter at https://twitter.com/andrewselsky
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)  One of South Carolina's top Democratic lawmakers wants the state to use some of its COVID-19 relief money to offer $1 million prizes to people who get vaccinated for the disease, similar to a program in Ohio.

That type of program might get South Carolina, where just 36% of residents are fully vaccinated, out of the bottom 10 in the percentage of residents who have completed their COVID-19 immunizations, House Minority Leader Todd Rutherford said.

I think the message of the State of South Carolina should be clear. Get vaccinated: protect yourself, protect those around you, and you just might win a million dollars," the Columbia Democrat said in a statement.

Ohio is giving away five $1 million prizes to adults who have been vaccinated and a college scholarship to five children ages 12 to 17 who get their shots. Ohio saw an increase in vaccinations after announcing the prizes.

More than 2.7 million adults signed up for the $1 million prize and more than 104,000 children entered the drawing for the college scholarship, which includes tuition, room and board, and books.

South Carolina senators considered more modest incentives during last month's budget debate, including a $250 scholarship to college students who get vaccinated or $100 for the first 500,000 people to get the COVID-19 shot.

Senate Minority Leader Brad Hutto compared it to how crazy people get when prizes worth only several dollars are offered at sporting events.

When they drop the things at the ball games, people jump all over themselves to get a Chick-fil-A sandwich gift card, said Hutto, a Democrat from Orangeburg.

Both proposals failed with minimal support from the Republican majority.

The House is considering changes to the state budget next month and Rutherford is on the House Ways and Means Committee, which will discuss the spending plan next week.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The radios crackled with a frantic call for backup at a federal prison in California: An inmate was found hanging in his cell. Help was needed immediately.

But the prison, like many run by the U.S. government, is so chronically understaffed that other prison workers who would normally rush to the scene weren't able to leave posts where they were being forced to fill-in as correctional officers, two people familiar with the matter told The Associated Press.

Monday's death was reminiscent of one of the worst crises in the history of the federal Bureau of Prisons  when Jeffrey Epstein took his own life while in custody at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in New York  and exemplifies the dangers of the agencys severe staffing crisis, nearly three years after Epsteins suicide cast a bright spotlight on an agency that has been besieged by serious misconduct in recent years.

The Associated Press reported last week that nearly one-third of federal correctional officer jobs in the United States are vacant, forcing prisons to use cooks, teachers, nurses and other workers to guard inmates. The expanded use of that practice, known as augmentation, has been raising questions about whether the agency can carry out its required duties to ensure the safety of prisoners and staff members while also putting in place programs and classes required under the law.

The 47-year-old inmate who died Monday at FCI Mendota, a medium-security prison just west of Fresno, was serving a more than four-year sentence for illegally reentering the United States after being deported. Juan Ramon Rodriguez-Barbosa was being held in the prisons segregated housing unit and was found hanging by officers who were making their required checks of inmates in the unit every 30 minutes, the people familiar with the matter said. They could not discuss the details of the incident publicly and spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.

The Bureau of Prisons said responding staff members immediately initiated life-saving measures and called for emergency medical crews, but Rodriguez-Barbosa was pronounced dead at the scene.

The agency insists that there was an immediate response to the medical call and an appropriate number of staff members responded. But there were others who normally wouldve responded to such a call and couldnt.

At the time of the incident, about half of the prison's correctional officer posts were filled by workers whose regular duties do not include guarding inmates. The Bureau of Prisons says all prison workers are trained as correctional workers, regardless of position or job title. Fully staffed, there would have been more first responders rushing to the emergency call.

Just hours before Rodriguez-Barbosas death, the prisons warden, Douglas White, wrote to the entire staff to complain about media coverage that he said painted a negative image of the prison. He told them it is time to stop talking and printing negative information about the staff there.

Federal regulations require all Justice Department employees  including those in the Bureau of Prisons  to report allegations of illegal activity or serious administrative misconduct to the Justice Departments inspector general or internal affairs.

The wardens email appeared to have been sparked by an AP story highlighting understaffing at Mendota and the protest by union officials. White had also sent other Bureau of Prisons employees with video cameras to record their fellow prison workers who were protesting and members of the media covering it.

The Warden sent staff to determine what was happening. When they found out no threat existed, they returned to the institution, a Bureau of Prisons spokesperson told the AP. The agency has refused to provide a copy of the video.

The Bureau of Prisons has been working to try to bring on more staff members  launching what it called a hiring frenzy  in February. The bureau says it hired nearly 4,000 new staff members in 2020  more than in prior years  and that more than 500 additional hires are on the way.

And the bureau says it has been holding hiring events at several prisons across the country.

They included two on Wednesday: one at Mendota this week and another to attract staff to work at federal jails in New York City  facilities that a federal judge recently said were run by morons and left inmates in inhuman conditions.

But when The Associated Press visited the public park in downtown Manhattan where the event was supposed to be held, it was nonexistent. The Bureau of Prisons said the hiring fair was canceled for safety and security because of a rumor that a protest was going to happen in the same place.

The AP did not witness any large-scale protest in the nearly empty park; two people who were sitting at a table in the park said they were protesting police misconduct after being approached by an AP photographer.

The Bureau of Prisons said officials dont like to cancel hiring events and were hoping to reschedule. An agency spokesperson said the bureau held about 20 hiring events, both virtually and in-person this year, to try to attract new employees to work at New York Citys federal jails.

We absolutely would like to see as many hiring initiatives in the works as possible, the agency said in a statement. Hiring events are only one component of our recruitment efforts, and while we want them to proceed as planned, due to institutional needs, they may be postponed.

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Associated Press photojournalist Mark Lennihan in New York contributed to this report.

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On Twitter, follow Michael Balsamo at twitter.com/mikebalsamo1 and Michael Sisak at twitter.com/mikesisak and send confidential tips by visiting https://www.ap.org/tips/
BOISE, Idaho (AP)  With the governor out of the state, Idahos lieutenant governor issued an executive order Thursday banning mask mandates in schools and public buildings, saying the face-covering directives threatened peoples freedom.

Republican Lt. Gov. Janice McGeachin is acting governor while Gov. Brad Little is at the Republican Governors Association conference in Nashville, Tennessee. He was expected to return Thursday evening.

Last week, McGeachin announced her run for governor, challenging the first-term incumbent Little. McGeachin is on the far right of the political spectrum in the conservative state, and her order could bolster her support as a candidate for governor.

Littles office said McGeachin did not make him aware that she planned to issue the executive order. The office didnt say what Little would do when he returned, but it did say residents value local control.

Throughout the pandemic, Governor Little has been committed to protecting the health and safety of the people of Idaho and has emphasized the importance of Idahoans choosing to protect our neighbors and loved ones and keeping our economy and schools open, Littles spokeswoman, Marissa Morrison, said.

Little has never issued a statewide mask mandate, but some counties, cities and schools have done so. Many have been lifting the mandates as more residents are vaccinated against COVID-19.

The executive order was signed by Republican Secretary or State Lawerence Denney and went into effect at 11 a.m. Denney's office said it confirmed Little was out of state before determining the order was valid under the Idaho Constitution.

The order applies to city and county governments, public universities, colleges and schools, and public libraries. The ban does not apply to federal buildings, hospitals or healthcare facilities.

Courts are not specifically mentioned in the two-page order, and it's not clear how the executive order would effect that branch of government.

Ive been listening to people all across the state with the concern about, especially, why are little kids being forced to wear masks in school, McGeachin said during an interview by The Associated Press. My oath to the Constitution is to protect those rights and freedoms of the individual, and Ive never supported any type of a mandate on the individual, especially when it comes to health care choices.

She said she hoped Little would let the order stand when he returned.

About 590,000 of Idahos 1.8 million residents have been vaccinated. State officials have reported that the virus has killed more than 2,000 people in the state and sickened some 190,000.

McGeachin said she hasn't been vaccinated and didn't plan to do so. She believes she had COVID-19 last year and has a natural immunity now. She said the experience for her was similar to the flu.

I have concerns about the long-term, prolonged wearing of the mask, what it may do to our lungs, she said, noting it was her personal belief. If it's something that the individual feels like they need to do to protect themselves than I support that.

McGeachin noted that the Republican-dominated state House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed a mask-mandate ban earlier this year, but the bill died in the Senate when a powerful committee chairman, Republican Sen. Fred Martin, declined to give it a hearing. ____

This story has been corrected to say the order bans mask mandates, not masks.
South Africa: Citizens urged to register for pilot census

This story has been published on: 2021-05-27. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.

The Western Cape Community Safety MEC, Albert Fritz, has expressed shock and anger at the continuing gun violence in Cape Town. According to the department, three more people died in Delft on Tuesday, while one of the two who were seriously injured is a 13-year-old girl. The department said the report comes on the back of reports of yo... See more
Military vehicles pull out of RO-RO ferry vessel

China Military Online) 15:50, May 27, 2021

A 4x4 off-road military vehicle attached to a brigade of the PLA 73rd Group Army pulls out of a military RO-RO ferry vessel during a loading-unloading training exercise from May 18 to 21, 2021. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Lin Jiayu)

(Web editor: Guo Wenrui, Bianji)
Additionally, the U.S. Geological Surveys seven-day stream flows have fallen below the 24th percentile in our region  ranges from the 25th to 75th percentile are within the norm  with a couple of stations falling below the 10th percentile. That includes Jordan Creek, which is in the 9th percentile in Allentown, and the Lehigh River, which measured in the 4th percentile in Glendon.
As the United States and its allies continue their withdrawal from Afghanistan, the U.S. military is drawing up plans to evacuate thousands of Afghan interpreters and others who worked with American troops and are in danger of reprisal from the Taliban.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Mark Milley told reporters Wednesday that the military is considering several options for how to help Afghans whose lives, and the lives of their families, might be in danger after the withdrawal is complete. He said the State Department is taking the lead, and the military will support it.

"There are plans being developed very, very rapidly here, for not just the interpreters but a lot of other people that have worked with the United States," Milley said on the flight back from the U.S. Air Force Academy's graduation ceremony in Colorado Springs, Colorado, according to Defense One. "So there's a prioritization of categories of these folks."

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Milley said the Special Immigrant Visa program will be part of the government's effort to safeguard the Afghans, but it is not the only option. The SIV program is highly troubled and understaffed, and its byzantine process often leaves Afghans waiting years to be approved to move to the United States.

The clock is ticking for tens of thousands of interpreters and other Afghan partners and their families. The United States and coalition allies have until Sept. 11 to pull the few thousand remaining troops and contractors from Afghanistan, though the withdrawal process is likely to be finished earlier this summer.

Advocates for Afghan partners are increasingly sounding the alarm that a bloodbath will occur if the United States does not act quickly to assist those it promised to help.

"The whole point of all this is trying to prevent a genocide from occurring," Matt Zeller, co-founder of the group No One Left Behind, a nonprofit group that assists Afghans with the SIV program, said Wednesday in an interview with Military.com. "This is a 'never again' moment that is eminently preventable. It only gets harder if we do nothing. But we can get it done if we [do] something now."

Zeller, a captain in the Army Reserve, said he owes his life to an Afghan interpreter.

"I'm only alive talking to you today because my interpreter from the war shot and killed two people who were about to kill me in a battle," he said. "And he'd be the first person to tell you that if he believed that Americans weren't honorable people who keep their word, he wouldn't have partnered with us.

"What if that becomes the prevailing narrative going forward?" he continued. "What if the prevailing narrative is, 'American partnership is a death sentence for you and your families?' Does anyone sign up to work with us in future conflicts? I don't think so."

An April study from Brown University, outlining problems with the SIV program, said there are about 18,800 Afghan applicants stuck in a backlog. Many of them have spouses, children or other immediate family members who are also in danger, Zeller said. That means tens of thousands of Afghans could require rapid evacuation.

Advocates such as Zeller support a plan to fly Afghans who have worked with the United States, and their families, to Guam, a U.S. territory where an Air Force base is located. This would allow the Afghans to stay in safety while the bureaucratic process plays out.

Defense One reported that Milley would not say whether using Guam as a way station is one of the options being considered.

"I'm not going to say the specifics of what's on the table or off the table," he said, according to Defense One. "Here's what I would tell you though: We have a moral commitment to those who helped us."

Milley's comments represent the strongest indication that the military is making contingency plans to ensure the safety of Afghan allies. Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby also hinted that something was in the works on Wednesday, though he said the military hasn't been given any orders yet to fly Afghans to Guam or take other actions.

"This is a planning organization, and we want to be ready for all manner of contingencies," Kirby said at a press briefing. "But there's been no tasking to do anything of that sort or to provide any transportation at this time."

The logistics of such an evacuation would be vast. Even if the military decides to fly Afghan allies and their family members to Guam in large aircraft such as C-17 Globemasters, it could require hundreds of flights.

Zeller said the U.S. must act immediately or face a moral catastrophe.

"We just don't have time," he said. "It's either put them on planes, get them to Guam, and then process their visas in safety, or stand back and watch the Taliban murder these people. There are no other options."

If the U.S. doesn't honor its commitments to those who helped it, Zeller said, the results will be very public -- and nobody will stick their necks out for the United States again.

"And this time, unlike Vietnam, [the world will] watch [reprisal killings] happen on TV," he added. "There is going to be a visual narrative that we'll be haunted [by] for the rest of our lives if we don't do this now."

-- Stephen Losey can be reached at stephen.losey@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @StephenLosey.

Related: Troubled Visa Program for Afghan Interpreters May Do 'More Harm Than Good,' Study Finds
The Marine Corps' top general will soon make his recommendations to the acting Navy secretary about whether more senior leaders should be punished for a horrific 2020 training accident off the coast of California that killed nine troops -- deaths the commandant said were preventable.

The Marine Corps has completed its follow-on review into how a unit assembled ahead of a fatal July 2020 waterborne accident, Commandant Gen. David Berger told reporters at the Pentagon on Wednesday. The sinking of a decades-old amphibious assault vehicle that resulted in the deaths of eight Marines and a sailor led to the firing of a colonel and a lieutenant colonel, but left more senior officers unscathed.

Berger said when he read the findings of the first probe, "it was pretty clear to me we needed to do a follow-on investigation." That new investigation, which was announced in April, examined how the California-based 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, to which the fallen Marines and sailors were assigned, formed ahead of its fall deployment.

"I have a very clear picture right now all the way up the chain [of command]," Berger said. "I don't need any more to have a discussion with the secretary. I have what I need right now."

Berger declined to say how many general officers or other senior leaders could face reprimands, but said the spectrum of options -- from no punishments to administrative reprimands all the way up to courts-martial -- are possible.

"They are on the table always -- for all of us," Berger said of military leaders. "Not just this case, but they're all on the table."

Maj. Gen. Robert Castellvi remains suspended from his position as inspector general of the Marine Corps, Berger said, pending the outcome of the recommendations he'll make to acting Navy Secretary Tom Harker. Castellvi was serving as commanding general of 1st Marine Division when the AAV accident occurred. He was found to bear some responsibility for the incident, but was still assigned to serve in a high-profile position at the Pentagon.

The other two officers who've already been fired include Lt. Col. Michael J. Regner, who led Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, and Col. Christopher Bronzi, the 15th MEU's commanding officer. Regner was removed from his job in October. Bronzi was relieved in March while leading the 15th MEU in the Middle East.

This is the second time in two years the Marine Corps has had to review the findings of a fatal training accident. A review into a fatal 2018 midair collision off Japan's coast that killed six Marines later left a two-star general and colonel facing administrative actions.

Marine families and members of Congress have called on the Corps to hold more leaders accountable for the flurry of failures that led the AAV to sink.

Cpls. Wesley Rodd and Cesar Villanueva; Lance Cpls. Marco Barranco, Guillermo Perez and Lance Cpl. Chase Sweetwood; Pfcs. Bryan Baltierra, Evan Bath and Jack Ryan Ostrovsky; and Navy Hospitalman Christopher Gnem were killed in the accident. They were all assigned to Bravo Company, Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines. Their unit was operating with the 15th MEU.

"I don't think that I have ever seen something so horrible in my life in terms of how many things went wrong," Sweetwood's mother, Christiana, told Military.com after her family was briefed on the findings. "I 100% believe that a lot of the people that were involved -- people that should have been leaders, people that should have advocated for them to have better -- failed them. They failed them."

The investigation found most of the AAVs assigned to the MEU were not in good working condition. Leaders also failed to properly train the troops to exit the vehicle in the event of an emergency, and there were no safety boats in the water to assist the doomed AAV once it started taking on water.

Berger said there are no excuses for failing to ensure Marines received their necessary training ahead of such a dangerous training exercise. The investigation found most of the troops in the AAV had only been trained to get out of the vehicle in shallow water. The AAV sank in water more than 300 feet deep on its way back to a Navy ship after a mock raid exercise ashore.

"There are no excuses for that at all," Berger said. "None."

The Marine Corps has a lot to do to address its safety culture, particularly during training exercises, he added. While he doesn't want to create a force of leaders that become averse to taking risks in combat, Berger said the AAV disaster highlighted problems that could put other personnel in unnecessarily dangerous situations.

"I am concerned ... in our aggressiveness, in our can-do attitude -- that we can work through any friction [or] obstacles," he said. "... This is the ultimate test of leadership, right? Balancing your priorities and understanding where you're taking risk."

Marines must feel empowered in any training scenario -- from shooting on the rifle range to being in an AAV -- to speak up if they see something unsafe, the commandant added. And more importantly, he said, leaders need to stop and listen to their Marines if they raise concerns.

"We have to temper 10 or 15 years of leadership to stop and go, 'Maybe they saw some that the rest of us didn't see,'" Berger said. "We have to discipline leadership as well."

Aside from the new probe on how the 15th MEU formed, Berger said a Navy investigation into the accident remains ongoing. It's unclear whether that could lead to reprimands in the Navy after personnel were found to have failed to provide updates on water conditions. Miscommunication also left the AAVs operating in deep water without any safety boats.

The Marine Corps is also assembling a "blue-star panel," led by retired Gen. Thomas D. Waldhauser, that will spend months assessing the Navy and Marine Corps' abilities to safely carry out amphibious operations. Waldhauser wrapped up his 43-year career with a tour as head of U.S. Africa Command, but has extensive amphibious warfare experience.

The panel will include other retired Navy and Marine personnel as well as safety experts, Berger said. They will travel around the world to assess Marine and Navy units conducting amphibious operations.

"That will take several months," he said. "... Where are we now in the Navy and Marine Corps? And then based on how we think we're going to need to operate in the future, what is it going to take to get us there?"

Ultimately, Berger said, the responsibility for last summer's deadly accident lies with him, and he owns the need to prevent similar ones from happening.He stopped short of promising another one would ever occur again though, citing the dangerous nature of Marines' work.

"I can promise ... we will turn over every stone and try to limit that to as close as possible," he said.

-- Gina Harkins can be reached at gina.harkins@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @ginaaharkins.

Related: Commandant Suspends Marine 2-Star Who Went Unpunished After AAV Disaster
In a bizarre turn of events, the Senate revoked Christine Wormuth's confirmation as Army secretary Wednesday after she seemed to be confirmed by unanimous consent.

Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., announced the rollback on the Senate's decision about two hours after the chamber approved her to take on the role in the Army's top civilian post. Wormuth would be the first woman to take the job.

"As in executive session, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate vitiate the previous action on Executive Calendar 135," Schumer said referring to Wormuth.

Read Next: Despite Transparency Pledge, Pentagon Still Won't Get Specific on Combat Troop Numbers

Schumer did not elaborate on what happened and his office did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Military.com. Wormuth has not been seen as a controversial pick for Army secretary and breezed through her confirmation hearing without much pushback from Republicans. The rapid reversal could be the result of a procedural problem, though the specifics of the issue haven't been made clear.

About an hour before Schumer's reversal, Wormuth tweeted that she was "honored" to be confirmed by the Senate.

"I am so honored to be confirmed as Secretary of the Army," she tweeted at 10:30 p.m. Wednesday. "Serving in this role is a tremendous privilege and responsibility."

Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Grinston also congratulated Wormuth on Twitter, saying he was "Proud to be part of YOUR squad, Ma'am." He later took down the tweet when the confirmation was reversed.

Wormuth would come to the job at a critical time for the Army. The force faces potential budget cuts amid military-wide resource constraints. She told lawmakers at her confirmation hearing earlier this month she didn't "think anyone would be well-served by looking at the Army as just a bill-payer."

She would also take the helm as the Army reinvents how it evaluates physical fitness for soldiers. Leaders have struggled to develop the new Army Combat Fitness Test to create a stronger force without damaging recruiting and retention for jobs that aren't physically demanding. Wormuth said the new test is concerning for how it seemingly puts women at a significant disadvantage.

She also told lawmakers it's time to reevaluate the high demands placed on the National Guard, after a year in which the part-time force has juggled multiple domestic missions and overseas operations. Her concerns echo those of top Army brass, who are concerned the Guard has been stretched too thin.

-- Steve Beynon can be reached at Steve.Beynon@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @StevenBeynon.

Related: Army Secretary Nominee Worries the ACFT Will Push Too Many Women Out
U.S. special operators could help Taiwan bolster its defenses against a potential Chinese invasion, the nominee to oversee special operations told lawmakers Thursday.

Christopher Maier, the nominee to be assistant secretary of defense for special operations and low-intensity conflict, told the Senate Armed Services Committee that the U.S. "should be considering strongly" an effort to help Taiwan strengthen its ability to conduct irregular warfare.

"I do think that is something that we should be considering strongly as we think about competition across the span of different capabilities we can apply, [special operations forces] being a key contributor to that," Maier said.

Read Next: The Air Force's New PT Test Is Coming This July. Here's What We Know

During the hearing, Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., floated the idea of special operations forces assisting Taiwan, in a manner similar to how American special forces help Baltic nations strengthen their ability to resist Russian aggression.

Maier said that special operators could help Taiwanese troops hone their skills, and mentioned resistance networks and counteracting potential enemy amphibious landings as examples.

Information operations is a key area where special operators can help conventional forces deter Chinese aggression, he said. Improving how U.S. special forces conduct information operations will be one of his top priorities, he added.

If the Afghanistan government in Kabul falls, Maier said, the U.S.'s ability to gather intelligence and conduct "over-the-horizon" counterterrorism operations would become "immensely more challenging."

The military is looking at options for basing locations outside of Afghanistan, he added, but said a collapse of Afghan security forces would make that much harder.

Maier said he thinks the military will be able to work with regional and local stakeholders to get the job done, "but it's really a spectrum."

"It'll be better if we're closer, and we have more capability that we can apply against the problem," he explained.

When asked whether special operations forces should help maintain relationships with local leaders -- similar to how special forces worked with the Northern Alliance in the early days of the war -- if Kabul were to fall, Maier said he would consider that.

"I think it's fair to say that SOF was first into Afghanistan, and maybe last out, and this is definitely an option that I would look at if confirmed," he said.

Maier added that increasing the diversity in special operations, and ensuring female troops have equipment that fits them, would be some of his top priorities if confirmed.

Opening all jobs in the military to women was the first step, he said, and the military has seen an evolution since then, such as when the Air Force moved to ensure women have body armor and flight suits that fit them.

"This is indicative of the ongoing effort to build both the ability for women to operate on equal footing and having the acceptance and, in many cases, the equipment that's required," Maier said. "We know as we compete globally, we're going to need both genders in the fight. And we're going to need people with other expertise that we might not have had as much of in the force."

-- Stephen Losey can be reached at stephen.losey@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @StephenLosey.

Related: After War Zone Scandals, Special Operators Are Curbing Deployments and Investing in Ethics Training
On November 11, Americans celebrate veterans and honor those who served, but the date holds special meaning beyond our borders and around the world. In fact, the 11th of November is a solemn day to many of our nations allies.

To them it is Remembrance Day or Armistice Day, commemorating the end of World War I hostilities at the eleventh hour, of the eleventh day, of the eleventh month in 1918. The red poppy became synonymous with the fallen troops during the First World War  and has remained a symbol of their sacrifice ever since. But the poppies adopted this meaning because of the war poem In Flanders Field written by the Canadian Physician, Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae.

The poem and red poppies are used to sell Canadian victory bonds. (Wikipedia)

It was at the second battle of Ypres, Belgium in April to May 1915 where McCrae saw the devastation firsthand. The Germans had just begun using chlorine gas against their enemies. Within the first ten minutes of the battle, there were already six thousand French casualties. After only the first seventeen days, half of McCraes brigade had died in battle.

McCraes close friend, Alexis Helmer, was killed in action on May 2nd. He chose to perform the burial service himself. As he laid his friend to rest, he saw beauty in the hellscape around him.

Red poppies are a hardy flower. Where the land had been destroyed by mortar fire, chlorine gas, and countless other environmental concerns, the poppies grew around the graves  not even the high sodium or increased levels of lime could deter the red blooms.

Nearly every grave was decorated, as if it were a symbol from above.

The next day, in the back of an ambulance overlooking the battlefield, McCrae wrote what would arguably become Canadas most well-known literary work.

"The Second Battle of Ypres" by Richard Jack (Painting via Canadian War Museum)

In Flanders fields the poppies grow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

British 1st Btn Cameronian Highlanders wear gas masks and fix bayonets in anticipation of German gas attack 2nd Battle of Ypres on 20th May 1915. (Photo via Forces War Record)

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved and were loved, and now we lie

In Flanders fields.

Poppies growing on the graves of British and Australian soldiers in a cemetery near Daours, France in June 1918. (Photo via Australian War Memorial)

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders fields.

"In Flanders Field" by John McCrae

McCrae would be promoted to the consulting physician of the First British Army just four days before succumbing to pneumonia on Jan. 28, 1918. He would never know the end of the war or see the true impact of his poem. Canadians, Brits, Aussies, and New Zealanders wear a red poppy to remember the fallen of all wars. Americans borrow from this tradition for Memorial Day.

Memorial Day in America falls on the last Monday of May  and its no coincidence that it occurs during the time of year when flowers, including the red poppy, are most in bloom.

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Sgt. Milton Oviedo relates to potential recruits through personal experience.

A recruiter for the Arkansas Army National Guard, Oviedo was born in Los Angeles. His family moved to Rogers, Arkansas -- tucked in the northwest corner of the state near the Oklahoma and Missouri borders -- when he was young. They returned to Mexico in 2010 after Oviedo's parents, who were undocumented, were deported.

The family struggled. Basic necessities, such as food, were scarce. Oviedo slept on a mattress without a frame.

"We basically had to start from zero,'' he said.

Enticed by the prospect of a free education, Oviedo, 23, enlisted on Nov. 22, 2016. He has been a recruiter for 1 years.

When recruiters open up to potential enlistees, they humanize themselves, put an applicant at ease and increase the likelihood that a bond will be formed.

"We refer to our recruiters as 'life changers,' and we encourage them to share their unique Army story -- why they joined, why they continue to serve and how the Army has changed their own life,'' Lt. Col. Whitney Jensen, commander of the New York City Recruiting Battalion, said via email. "It is only through authentic conversation that potential applicants can learn what it truly means to become part of the Army team.''

Related: Want to Join the Military? Learn About the ASVAB

Originally from the Philippines, Staff Sgt. Archie Arboleda, a recruiter in the NYC Recruiting Battalion, 1st Brigade, U.S. Army Recruiting Command, immigrated to Los Angeles when he was 25 years old. Despite working as a caregiver, he was barely surviving and did not have enough money to buy a car. Lacking education, Arboleda turned to the military.

He enlisted in 2010.

"I realized that the Army is offering free education and a lot of benefits, to include my citizenship,'' said Arboleda, 38. "So that was the main goal -- to get an education and citizenship.''

Service members can apply for citizenship if they have been in the military for at least one year, pass a civics test and can read, write and speak English, among other qualifications.

Arboleda, who became a U.S. citizen in 2011, studied to become an automotive technician.

Both he and Oviedo, who is pursuing a civil engineering degree and will attend the University of Arkansas this fall, said the military changed them -- and can change others.

"A lot of Hispanic kids would relate because maybe some family members, maybe they are going through the same scenario that I went through,'' Oviedo said. "My story would encourage them. They would feel like, 'It's not just me. Someone else has been through the same thing, and they're a success.'''

Arboleda appreciates the pivotal role that recruiters can play in an applicant's future. He recalled meeting a doctor from Nepal who couldn't practice medicine in America because she was not a citizen. Arboleda guided her through the enlistment process. She obtained her citizenship and is studying at Liberty University in Virginia, he said.

Oviedo shared a story similar to his own. He recounted teaching a recruit, whose parents were undocumented workers, how to file taxes.

"I have recruited in my own image with every single individual that I've put in the Guard,'' Oviedo said. "That way, I inspire them to grow.''

Arboleda became a recruiter eight years into his military career. When he assumed that role, he didn't forget the person who recruited him.

He emailed Sgt. Frank Hernandez IIl.

"[It] said, 'I'm so thankful that you've given me this opportunity, and thanks a lot for your help,''' Arboleda said. "He changed my life a lot.''

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The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Buffer Stock, Abdul Wahab Aludiba Hannan has donated six ambulances to Muslim communities in four districts in the Northeastern part of the Upper East Region.

The ambulances will help avoid the needless lose of lives due to the lack of ambulance to transport referred cases especially pregnant women, children and the aged to hospitals.

The beneficiary districts include Garu District (one), Bawku Municipal (one), Bawku West (one) and Pusiga District (three). The three ambulances for Pusiga are for Kulungungu, Widana and Pusiga town.

Addressing chiefs and people in the Muslim community at Pusiga, Abdul Wahab Aludiba Hannan noted that the donation is in response to a passionate appeal made by the Muslim communities during the 2020 general elections.

Abdul Hannan noted that the kind gesture is out of the little he has to support people in the Muslim community whose welfare is critical to core believes and for others to emulate same.

Mr Abdul-Wahab told the gatherings that beyond the politics, he is enjoined by the Islamic religion to alleviate the plight of humans in need and that the gesture was part of many dreams he has for the people in the beneficiary communities.

He calls for all hands on deck to support the developmental agenda of the area for the benefit of all.

George Atuase, Secretary to the Pusiga Chief expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Aludiba foundation for their continued kind gesture.

Timothy Mahama, the Pusiga District Health Director, thanked the philanthropist for his sole commitment to ensuring that the people of area get the needed health care support.

Whilst giving an assurance to put the ambulance to good use, Mr Mahama appealed to the people of the district to make good use of the ambulance in other to avoid unnecessary breakdowns.

At Bawku central Mosque, the Muslims were very grateful to the CEO for his support always. The Muslims in the Garu District were equally grateful for his kind gesture.

The Ambulances were donated by The Aludiba Foundation, a charity NGO through the instrumentality of its Founder and Chairman, Mr Hanan Abdul-Wahab.

For many of the inhabitants, it was a dream-come-true and lauded Mr Hanan Abdul-Wahab for the kind gesture.

The elated Muslim leaders praised him for fulfilling his promise, saying it was a quality of a trustworthy person to be taken seriously by his or her own words.
Former Central Regional Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Bernard Allotey Jacobs has bemoaned how the party has deviated from the principles on which it was originally founded, making it unattractive to the Ghanaian electorate.

Allotey Jacobs blamed the NDCs defeat in the 2020 presidential election to the neglect of the grassroots.

Participation, as we thought from the beginning of the revolution, was that, it should be inclusive; that the mass of our people from whom power is derived must not only be policy takers but must be involved in policy evolution from the grassroots.

It is unfortunate that even though we are the originators of that idea (formation of Unit Committees) our party today is not firmly rooted at the unit or branch level, Bernard Allotey Jacobs exclusively told Reynold Agyemang on Pae Mu Ka on Accra-based Kingdom FM 107.7

Allotey Jacobs urged the NDC to return to its founding ideologies of probity, accountability, and participatory democracy if the party should be taken seriously and given power again.

---KingdomfmOnline
Morocco has vaccinated nearly 4,000 inmates as part of a campaign launched in March to inoculate the incarcerated population against coronavirus, the kingdom's prison authority said Wednesday.

Morocco has vaccinated nearly 4,000 inmates since March, the prison authority said. By FADEL SENNA (AFP)

The aim of the campaign, started several weeks after the national vaccination drive, is to work toward "a collective immunity for 80 percent of prisoners", said Taoufiq Abtal, the head of health for the prison authority DGAPR.

"This is a pioneering operation," he said during a press tour of the El Arjat prison, near the capital Rabat, stressing "good progress" had been made.

Morocco's 78 prisons hold nearly 85,000 inmates, 45 percent of whom are in pre-trial detention, with the North African kingdom's prison system suffering a "chronic problem" of overcrowding, according to the DGAPR.

Morocco's 78 prisons hold nearly 85,000 inmates, 45 percent of whom are in pre-trial detention. By FADEL SENNA (AFP)

The court of auditors says inmates live in an average surface area of 1.8 square metres (19 square feet), and the non-governmental Moroccan Observatory of Prisons says some jails have an occupancy rate of more than 250 percent.

Since late January, around eight million Moroccans have received one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine and nearly five million have had two doses, according to the latest official figures.

The vaccination campaign in prisons is currently targeting inmates aged over 45, and those with chronic illnesses.

Prisoners at the El Arjat jail in northern Morocco were registered before receiving a dose of the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine. By FADEL SENNA (AFP)

Morocco recently eased restrictions imposed to control the spread of the coronavirus, shortening a night-time curfew, but a long-standing state of emergency over the health crisis has been extended until June 10.

Morocco's borders will remain closed to 54 countries until at least June 10, according to the civil aviation authority.

The kingdom has recorded over 517,000 cases of Covid-19 since the pandemic began, including 9,131 deaths.
Its so crucial that the caregiving jobs of the future be good union jobs where caregivers have the right to organize and give voice to our concerns. Thats why I am so grateful for Sen. Bob Caseys support of the American Jobs Plan, a plan that will finally recognize home care workers for what we are, an integral part of our economic infrastructure and an essential part of keeping our communities safe and thriving.
Mali's interim president and prime minister resigned on Wednesday, a top junta aide said, two days after they were detained and stripped of their powers in what appeared to amount to the country's second coup in nine months.

In New York, the UN Security Council "strongly condemned" the ouster and arrest of President Bah Ndaw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane, and called for a return to civilian government -- but did not discuss punitive measures.

The interim leaders, who had been tasked with steering the return to civilian rule after a coup last August, resigned in the presence of mediators visiting the military base where they were being held, said Baba Cisse, special advisor to junta boss Assimi Goita.

Map of Mali locating the capital Bamako where soldiers detained the president and prime minister on Monday.. By (AFP)

However a member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), African Union and UN mission MINUSMA mediation mission told reporters that the leaders had in fact resigned before they arrived.

The delegation then went to speak to Goita -- who holds the rank of vice president in the transitional government -- again after seeing him late Tuesday.

Cisse said the president, prime minister and other transition leaders arrested on Monday would be released but this would happen "gradually for obvious security reasons". He gave no timeline.

He said earlier that there were moves toward forming a new government in the poor Sahel state.

Their detentions triggered widespread international condemnation and the threat of sanctions.

The Security Council, which held an emergency meeting at the request of former colonial power France and others, called for "the safe, immediate and unconditional release of all the officials detained and urged the defense and security forces elements to return to their barracks without delay".

The council urged a restoration of the civilian-led transition, which envisages a return to elections and constitutional order on an 18-month timeline.

But it did not discuss imposing sanctions and refrained from calling the detentions a coup.

The ECOWAS delegation is headed by former Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan, shown arriving in Bamako. By Michele Cattani (AFP)

The ECOWAS mediators met with Ndaw and Ouane at the Kati military camp around 15 kilometres (nine miles) from the capital Bamako.

A member of the delegation headed by former Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan had warned that ECOWAS "could quickly announce sanctions" if the crisis is not resolved.

France was also prepared to impose "targeted sanctions", French President Emmanuel Macron said after a European Union summit.

And Washington said it would "consider targeted measures against political and military leaders who impede Mali's civilian-led transition to democratic governance".

It said the United States had suspended assistance for Mali's security forces.

'Unacceptable coup'

Macron, whose country has committed more than 5,000 troops to Mali's fight against jihadism in the Sahel, condemned the arrest of Ndaw and Ouane as a "coup d'etat in an unacceptable coup d'etat".

On Monday, the United Nations, African Union, ECOWAS, the EU and United States issued a rare joint statement, attacking the detention and demanding the pair be released.

That demand was echoed on Tuesday by Britain and Germany.

Coup leader Assimi Goita is currently serving as interim vice president. By MICHELE CATTANI (AFP/File)

A member of Goita's team said that during the talks with the ECOWAS mediators, they had "explained their reasons" for pushing Ndaw and Ouane out, and insisted that elections would still be held next year.

Young military officers ousted president Ibrahim Boubacar Keita last August after weeks of demonstrations over perceived government corruption and his handling of the jihadist insurgency.

ECOWAS, a 15-nation regional bloc, threatened sanctions, prompting the junta to hand power to a caretaker government that pledged to reform the constitution.

Recently there had been signs of public discontent, with the opposition M5 movement demanding a "more legitimate" body.

On May 14, the government said it would appoint a new "broad-based" cabinet.

The reshuffle saw the military keep the strategic portfolios it controlled during the previous administration.

But two other coup leaders -- ex-defence minister Sadio Camara and ex-security minister Colonel Modibo Kone -- were replaced, prompting officers to detain the president and prime minister.

'Intent to sabotage transition'

Goita accused Ndaw and Ouane of failing to consult him on the reshuffle and decried what he called a "demonstrable intent to sabotage the transition".

The transitional charter, a document largely drawn up by the colonels, sets down principles for underpinning Mali's return to civilian rule.

"The scheduled elections will be held in 2022," Goita added.

But many have doubted whether the military-dominated government had the will -- or the ability -- to stage reforms on a short timescale.
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The Centre for Nation Culture with support from National Commission on Culture and CARE Ghana has held a drama in Xavi in Akatsi South Municipality of the Volta Region on Tuesday May 25.

The programme was to deepen the awareness of the coronavirus pandemic in some selected communities in the region.

Miss Rosemond Amuzu the Volta Regional Director for the Centre for National Culture in her speech during the occasion stated that the programme has been scheduled in phases to cover seven communities in the region.

She added that there will be live screening programmes.

She said the report from the programme will be useful in subsequent phases of the campaign dubbed "Gye Wo De" in Akan or "Xor Tor" in Ewe to wit 'Take Yours.'

Reverend Christopher Vigbedor, the Akatsi South Municipal Director for Centre for National Culture,in an exclusive interview with ModernGhana News stated that the aim of the programme is to help prevent sickness and diseases using artistic and drama works.

He added those throwing conspiracy theories about the covid-19 pandemic should desist from such behaviour since the virus is real.

Dr George Nyako, the Akatsi South Municipal Health Director during the programme also lamented how people are refusing to adhere to the safety protocols to help mitigate the virus.

He said the drama performance provides an innovative and best way every individual can protect themselves against the virus using artistic work.

Mr Leo Nelson Adzidoga, the Akatsi South Municipal Chief Executive in his remarks congratulated the drama groups for their wonderful performances.

He continued that, no one knows when the deadly covid-19 pandemic will be totally eradicated in the country, therefore one must learn how to live with the virus by observing all the safety protocols.

"We are not in normal times so let learn to live our new ways of life," he added.

Togbui Ani V, Dufia of Xavi told the media that the drama performance will help change the mentality of many especially those who still do not believe the virus exists.

Mr Shine Foster Agorsor, the Assemblymember for Xavi Electoral Area applauded the drama group for their performances.

He thanked the organizers for the privilege given to his area to take part in the initiative.

Other dignitaries present at the ceremony include Togbe Klu-Agbonu lll, Dufia of Katabokope, Assemblymembers, heads of institutions and others.
World Bank County Manager, Ghana, Agata Pawlowski, speaking at the World Bank Pandemic Emergency Financing Facility Project Closeout Meeting in Accra, has reaffirmed their readiness to address vaccine supply issues in Ghana and other developing countries.

According to her, the World Bank, Global Fund, and other partners are providing additional resources towards supporting Ghana's COV-19 response including vaccine purchase.

"The World Bank is delighted to be a significant part of the tremendous efforts of the government and partners to combat the pandemic as well as to advance the progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The gains made from working with the government and development partners will no doubt contribute to enhancing the country's response," she said.

The World Bank has so far supported Ghana with a contribution of $235.8 million towards addressing the pandemic to date. These have benefited the entire country, reaching the poor and assisting in reopening the economy.

The funds have used to trace and treat cases, equip health facilities, refurbish treatment centres enhance laboratory capacities and at the same time helped advanced the development of health systems".

Agata Pawlowski emphasized that the $3.3 million provided under the world Bank Pandemic Emergency Financing Facility implemented by UN agencies(WHO, UNICEF, UNFPA, WFP, FAO, and IFRC) with the consent of the government, was in the spirit of expanding government capacity to do more, which results have been achieved so far.

She commended the government's strategic leadership and constant commitment to protect Ghanaians including efforts being made for covid-19 vaccination.

The World Bank is acknowledged the strong collaboration with development partners towards building and strengthening the resilience of Ghana's health system has undoubtedly helped to better respond to Public Health Emergencies.

She therefore on the government of Ghana to avoid any slippages but continue with the prudent policies and activities towards addressing the pandemic while addressing emerging issues of transparency, value for money, and accountability to the people of Ghana.
The Cocoa Mass Spraying Gang in Nkonya Operational Area in the Hohoe-Kpeve District has today received comprehensive training ahead of the upcoming 2020/2021 Mass Spraying Season which will commence in 1st June 2021.

Addressing the Spraying Gang, the Technical Officer in Charge of Extension in the Area, Francis M. Eshun welcomed all the team of sprayers for attending the training. He stated that the training is very important for COCOBOD as well as the safety of the Spraying Gang members themselves.

It has been the target of COCOBOD to achieve the 1 million tonne target. Many factors contribute to low cocoa productivity, of which the incidence of Black Pod Disease and Capsids (Akate) are no exception, Mr. Eshun stated. He added that, for the Ghana Cocoa industry to remain competitive and even take its past glories as Worlds leading producer requires concerted efforts, hence the criticality of Mass Spraying Gang.

This year, COCOBOD has provided Six STIHL SR 420 Motorized Mist blowers to you, which is the highest in the history of the operational area. The CODAPEC Unit has also ensured enough chemicals (Insecticides &Fungicides) are provided in time. These interventions show how COCOBOD values your contribution to the industry he added.

On precautions, he stated during spraying do not EAT, DRINK, SMOKE. Always wear COCOBOD provided PPES when spraying make sure to wash your uniform each day after spraying. You are in charge of your safety. The Technical Officer took time to go through the Instructional Manual of the STIHL SR 420 Motorized Mist blowers, especially on areas of safe use and care of the blowers. To reduce the risk of accidents, take a break at a good time to avoid tiredness or exhaustion. Work calmly and carefully-in daylight conditions and only when visibility is good.

The Spraying Gang Supervisor for the area, Mr. Daniel Ansah thanked the Technical Officer for the Training. He also praised COCOBOB for the investments they are putting into Cocoa Mass Spraying, noting that, these investments will help our farms to produce more. He also appealed to COCOBOD to consider raising the allowance of the Spraying Gang to further boost their morale.

The other Spraying Gang Members included Mr. Manfred Okyere, Mr. Adade Forson, Mr. Emmanuel Koranteng, Mr. Yao Kumah, Mr. Ediffor Forson, Mr. Eric Nyame Agyemang, Mr. Addae William, Mr. Asamoah Jonathan, and Mr. Fred Adjora. The team promised to work hard for the confidence reposed in them.
Washington, D.C., May 26, 2021  Pakistan authorities must launch a credible investigation into the assault of journalist Asad Ali Toor and bring the perpetrators to justice, the Committee to Protect Journalists said today.

Yesterday evening, three unidentified men beat, bound, and gagged Toor inside his apartment in Islamabad, according to news reports and the journalist, who spoke to CPJ in a phone interview.

CCTV footage following the attack shows Toor struggling to walk in his apartment buildings lobby as passersby helped remove the bindings. The journalist told CPJ that his arms were bloodied and bruised in the attack, and he required stitches on his elbow.

Toor works as a producer for the privately owned broadcaster Aaj TV, and also hosts a YouTube current affairs channel that has about 25,000 subscribers.

Pakistan authorities must immediately find out who is behind the assault on journalist Asad Ali Toor and bring them to justice, said Steven Butler, CPJs Asia program coordinator. Pakistan must put an end to its long and sorry record of failing to prosecute crimes against journalists.

Toor told CPJ that a man rang his doorbell and, when he answered, identified himself as an agent with Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency. That man then forced his way into the journalists apartment along with two others, who accused Toor of earning money from foreigners, he said.

The men told Toor that he should not be covering the ISI; when he responded that he had a right to do so, they threw him to the ground, bound and gagged him, and hit him repeatedly on his elbows with their pistols, he told CPJ. The men forced Toor to shout patriotic slogans supporting the army and the ISI, which he said he tried to do through the gag.

Toor said that one of the assailants answered a phone call, and he managed to slip the gag off his mouth and began shouting, after which the assailants threatened to shoot him if he did not shop shouting, and then fled the scene.

Toor said the men also seized electronic devices from his home, including his phone.

CPJ messaged the ISI public relations service at its official website but did not immediately receive any reply.

Federal Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry told CPJ via a messaging app that he had asked police to investigate the incident and predicted that the perpetrators would soon be arrested.

Last September, the Cybercrime Wing of the Pakistans Federal Investigation Agency registered a case against Toor for defaming the army; a court later dismissed the case, according to news reports .

In April, journalist Absar Alam was shot and wounded while walking near his home in Islamabad, as CPJ documented at the time. In 2020, Pakistan ranked ninth on CPJs annual Global Impunity Index , with at least 15 unsolved journalist murders since 2010.
A former Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GES), Professor Agyemang Badu Akosa, has hit hard at members of the Komfo Anokye Chapter of the Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (GAMLS) who are protesting the posting of the two haematologists to the Laboratory Service Department of the hospital.

Members of the Chapter have declared an indefinite strike starting Thursday, 27th May, 2021, over the move, after they started with a one-week sit-down strike.

They have vowed to call off the strike only if the two are withdrawn from the hospitals laboratory unit.

But Prof. Akosa on Citi TV's Point of View said the strike is unfounded, given that hematologists are equally qualified to work in laboratories.

The problem we have in this country sadly is that our medical laboratory scientists do not appreciate their limitation. Two hematologists- where should they go and practice? Hematologists are doctors who have trained in blood diseases. So far as the laboratory space has different professionals, the headship can be based on competence, so we cannot sit here and say that the laboratory should be for laboratory scientists alone.

People are being transferred to the laboratory space and you [laboratory scientists] are driving them away and because of that, there is a national strike. Why are we just splitting heads because medical laboratory scientists believe the laboratory space is for them. It is not for them, Mr. Akosa insisted.

The pathologist believes it is problematic for the Allied Health Professional Council to dictate or regulate the functions of physicians and where they should operate from as it was seeking to do with the two hematologists.

The Allied Health Professional Council regulates Allied Health Professionals, and the list is clearly stated in the schedule of Act 857 and it lists those who are allied health professionals  you must be a lab technician, you must be a medical laboratory technologist or a medical laboratory scientist. These are allied health professionals. As a medical doctor, I am not an allied health professional so under no circumstance can that regulatory agency regulate my practice. This is the mistake that unfortunately, the allied health professionals are making.

---citinewsroom
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The Bono Regional Chapter of the Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists, have declared an indefinite strike to support their colleagues at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in the Ashanti Region.

The entire Association in the Ashanti Region has begun an indefinite strike over the stalemate at KATH.

The Bono Regional Chairman of the Medical Laboratory Scientists, Moses Kofi Woli, said its members have laid down their tools and will put all labs in the region under lock and key until the demands of their colleagues at KATH are met.

He said all authorities have been notified about the decision.

We are joining the strike. We have served all the authorities notice. Weve sent a letter to the Regional Health Director copying all the necessary stakeholders we are joining them. We are not going to work. It is not going to be a sit-down strike, we are not going there. We are locking the labs, he said.

The regional leadership of the association in an earlier statement on Monday, May 24, 2021, directed all of its members to wear red bands as a way of supporting their colleagues in Kumasi.

The Regional Executive Committee (REC) of the Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (GAMLS)  Bono East Region, wishes to inform all Medical Laboratory professionals that, we are all required to wear red bands, starting Tuesday, 25th May, 2021, the earlier statement said.

Members of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital Chapter of the Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (GAMLS-KATH), declared a one-week sit-down strike on Thursday, 20th May, 2021.

The strike, according to the leadership of the Association, is to protest the decision of the hospital's management to keep two medical specialists in key positions at the Laboratory Services Directorate.

The Chairman of the Komfo Anokoye Teaching Hospital Chapter of the Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists, Ernest Badu Boateng, who spoke to Citi News after an emergency meeting with their members at the hospital, said the Ministry of Health and the management of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) have the one-week window to reassign the medical specialists.

He said if the authorities fail to change their stance, all medical laboratory scientists in the country will meet to take further action.

The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has warned that it will be forced to react if either the government or the management of KATH heeds the demands of the lab scientists.

The Ministry of Health has appealed to the lab scientists to call off the strike.

---citinewsroom
The Mankranso District Police Command has commenced investigations into last Monday, May 24 fatal accident at Onyinanumfo in the Ahafo-Ano South-West District of the Ashanti Region.

Three people, including a two-year-old boy, perished in the accident, while five others, who sustained injuries, were sent to the hospital for treatment.

The accident occurred when a speeding fuel tanker, reportedly carrying diesel from Kumasi, caught fire after hitting a parked commercial bus on reaching a sharp curve at Onyinanumfo.

Superintendent Richard Boahen, the Mankranso District Police Commander, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) at Mankranso, said the hospitalization of the injured persons initially affected investigations.

He cited the difficulty in identifying the charred bodies of the driver and his mate, who were in charge of the burnt fuel tanker.

For now, we are ready to commence full-scale investigations after gathering all the necessary facts needed for our work, Police Superintendent Boahen confirmed.

He said information reaching his outfit indicated that the commercial bus driver was discharged from the hospital on Tuesday, May 25 and that the police had formally invited him to take his statement.

Preliminary investigations, according to the District Commander, had established that wrongful parking by the bus at the said community was one of the factors that led to the disaster.

Even though the fuel tanker could also not escape blame for speeding, we think the situation could have been different if the commercial bus had parked at the right place instead of doing so on a sharp curve, Police Superintendent Boahen told the GNA.

Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) is mobilizing resources to resettle some 104 displaced persons at Onyinanumfo, whose houses got burnt when the fuel tanker caught fire.

The affected residents, currently putting up in makeshift abodes in the community, had so far been provided with roofing sheets, mattresses, second-hand clothes and clothing, mosquito nets and insecticide, as well as bags of rice and cooking oil.

---GNA
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The Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response was never likely to hand down a rosy report with gobbets of praise. Organised by the World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus last May, the panels gloomy assessment was grim: the COVID-19 pandemic could have been avoided.

Almost nothing in the main report could be seen as remarkable in these jaded times. It reads like a sharp vision of looking backwards, a history of folly and stumbles. The protagonist, SARS-CoV-2, proved wily, moving more rapidly than surveillance could detect it, ducking the monitors and seducing the examiners. The rest of the actors in the show proved, to varying degrees, to be inept, indifferent and even callous.

Such attitudes were shared in a climate of prior warning. Humanity has already faced events of mass viral mortality. That there would eventually be a pandemic of this scale was being discussed well ahead of the novel coronavirus march. But governments, planners and policy makers seemed unmoved. When action took place, it was tardy. Although public health officials, infectious disease experts, and previous international commissions and reviews had warned of potential pandemics and urged robust preparations since the first outbreak of SARS, COVID-19 still took large parts of the world by surprise.

The WHO itself is not spared a few chastising blows by the panel members. The organisations Emergency Committee should have, they argued, declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern a week earlier than it did: on January 22, at its first meeting, rather than January 30, by which time there were already 98 cases in 18 countries outside China. Not doing so also caused critical delays in mustering a global response. The meeting of the WHO IHR Emergency Committee called to discuss the outbreak on 22-23 January was split on whether to recommend that the outbreak be declared a PHEIC.

A central theme emerges: communication. And it is rather unsatisfactory. It is glaringly obvious that February 2020 was a lost month, the report states. Various Asian countries speedily responded, introducing intense testing and tracking regimes. But the WHO remained tentative. Evidence was weighed, balanced, and considered. Standard and sober as this was, the WHO did not consider convincing material that would prove to be beneficial. One was the importance of wearing masks.

The result: a pandemic that busily infected 150 million people, killed over three million people, and exposed deep inequalities. (Pandemics remain, historically, the great unmaskers.) Division and inequality between and within countries have been exacerbated, and the impact has been severe on people who are already marginalized and disadvantaged.

The report, and its authors, are stern in mood. If travel restrictions, former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark and panel co-chair combatively insists, had been imposed more quickly, more widely, again that would have been a serious inhibition on the rapid transmission of the disease that remains the same today. Clark, for all the merit of that assertion, ignores the logistical nightmares, hub routes, transit points and freedom of movement principles of such blocs as the European Union.

Not all actors in the COVID-19 disaster show receive a lashing. The conduct of clinicians within the last two weeks of December 2019 and January 2020 receives a nod of approval. They showed diligence in noticing clusters of unusual pneumonia. They sent samples for screening and escalated their concerns about this cluster of unexplained disease to local health authorities.

The panel also makes an assortment of recommendations. They call for an all-out-effort to reach the worlds population with vaccines within a year and set in place the infrastructure needed for at least 5 billion booster doses annually. They urge the application of non-pharmaceutical public health measures systematically and rigorously in every country at the scale the epidemiological situation requires. High income countries should commit at least one billion vaccine doses no later than 1 September 2021 and more than two billion doses by mid-2022 through the GAVI COVAX Advance Market Commitment.

The conventional model behind the making of vaccines is also challenged, with the panel insisting on establishing a truly global end-to-end platform for vaccines, diagnostics, therapeutics, and essential supplies. Rather than leaving innovation to the market, vaccines and related products should be seen as public goods. Unequal access to such products could be overcome through technology transfer, voluntary licensing and financing of regional manufacturing capacity.

Other suggestions point to a broader, health surveillance system that will not be hostage to national interests and clunky sovereignty. The emergence of COVID-19, the report notes, was characterized by a mix of some early and rapid action, but also by delay, hesitation, and denial. From this, an epidemic grew; from that, a pandemic. To that end, it was suggested that surveillance and alert systems at national, regional and global levels must be redesigned, all should be able to function at near-instantaneous speed. The WHO should be given greater powers and a higher budget. Its officials should be permitted access with minimal notice. Many governments are unlikely to agree.

Of some interest is the suggested Global Health Threats Council. Stacked with former presidents and prime ministers of various high-, middle- and low-income countries, it would perform the role of moralising guardian, taking governments to task for not preparing for, or responding to, the public health emergencies as designated by health specialists. Such a body, however, risks becoming a toothless entity with a megaphone.

The panels report has a title that sounds much like previous inquiries drawn from despair and destined to be lost: COVID-19: Make it the Last Pandemic. It will be filed in the vault of aspirations along with those noble wars that went wrong with criminal stupidity, the victory by Christmas that never took place, and efforts of failed solidarity in sharing scientific discoveries. They are trying to grab a moment that everyone knows will pass pretty fast, suggested Stephen Morrison of the Centre for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, DC. Global public health responses, sporadic, erratic and politically divided, will do everything to impair any such realisation. Nationalism continues to throb and disrupt. However well contained the novel coronavirus is, another threat to public health will be lurking.

Dr. Binoy Kampmark was a Commonwealth Scholar at Selwyn College, Cambridge. He lectures at RMIT University, Melbourne. Email: [email protected]
As a last resort, in a desperate attempt to overturn the will of the people, Trump invited his supporters to come to Washington on the day Congress was confirming the states votes, in hopes they would disrupt the peaceful transfer of power to his successor.
As part of the activities marking Africa Day, (historically celebrated May 25), the Russian Association for International Cooperation (RAMS), the Russkiy Mir Foundation and the Association for Economic Cooperation with African States (AECAS) held a snapshot videoconference under the theme, "Russia - Africa in the Mirror of the Media" at the offices of TASS News Agency.

The roundtable discussion was devoted to mapping out strategies on how to inform effectively the African public about Russia and the Russian public about Africa. Nearly all the participants acknowledged the important role media can play in strengthening economic and cultural cooperation between Russia and Africa.

With Russia speedily entering a new phase in consolidating multifaceted relations with Africa, the participants noted that Russian state media needs to make more efforts in getting information to the African public and Russian authorities also have to support African media broadly interested in Russian affairs.

For a successful return of Russia to Africa, it is necessary to expand information cooperation in order, among other things, to destroy negative myths on both sides, and to understand the prospects of information interaction between the media in the coverage of Russia on the African continent and Africa in Russia. The media can, and indeed must, be a decisive factor in building effective ties.

Over the years, many experts and academics have said, during different meetings, conferences and forums, that in African countries as a whole, in the local media market, there is an acute shortage of information about Russia. As a result, the task now could be facilitated by the creation of an Association of Russian-speaking journalists and bloggers in Africa.

But this media cooperation, in practical terms and during the past years, has not been prioritized by authorities. European and Western media brands, such as British Broadcasting Corporation, Cable News Network, Associated Press, Reuters, Agence France Press, Quartz, Al-Jazeera, Bloomberg, Xinhua News Agency et cetera, are active with their African partners, while the Russian media are largely invisible.

Besides the roundtable fixed in the building of TASS News Agency, other participants spoke, via video communication, about culture and education-related topics, on how to tackle existing challenges as well as the continent's media landscape from Morocco, Egypt, Mauritania, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Cameroon and Nigeria.

Over the years, many experts and researchers have offered their observations and made several recommendations. Russia has all the institutional tools, such as Russia Today, Sputnik, Voice of Russia, Interfax Information Service and TASS News Agency and many others, to create its own positive image in Africa. Instead, Russia has been critical on western media in Africa, often speak about anti-Russia propaganda and information war.

In addition, the Department of Information and Press of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs holds the responsibility for accreditation of foreign media. It has granted accreditation to only two African media from Morocco and Egypt. Both are from the Maghreb region. Within the foreign policy in Africa, without doubt, North Africa is highly considered a strategic region for Russia.

That however, the prospects for collaboration in the information sphere in Africa, in November 2018, the State Duma, lower house of parliamentarians, during a special session on Africa unreservedly called for an increased Russian media presence in sub-Saharan Africa.

Vyacheslav Volodin, the Chairman of the State Duma, told Ambassadors of African countries in the Russian Federation, "it is necessary to take certain steps together for the Russian media to work on the African continent. You know that the Russian media provide broadcasting in various languages, they work in many countries, although it is certainly impossible to compare this presence with the presence of the media of the United States, United Kingdom and Germany."

In an email conversation a decade ago, Fyodor Lukyanov, Editor-in-Chief of the Journal 'Russia in Global Affairs ' and Chairman of the Presidium of the Council on Foreign and Defense Policy, wrote "Soft power has never been a strong side of Russian policy in the post-Soviet era. Russian media write very little about Africa, economic and political dynamics in different parts of the continent."

"Russian media write very little about Africa, what is going on there, what are the social and political dynamics in different parts of the continent. Media and NGOs should make big efforts to increase the level of mutual knowledge, which can stimulate interest for each other and lead to increased economic interaction as well," according to him.

As far back as 2014, Olga Kulkova, Research Fellow at the Centre for Studies of Russian-African Relations, noted "in the global struggle for Africa, Russia is sadly far from outpacing its competitors. In terms of stringency of strategic outlook and activity, Russia is seriously lagging behind key global players in Africa."

Kulkova further proposed: "Africa needs broader coverage in Russian media. Leading Russian media agencies should release more topical news items and quality analytical articles about the continent, and on-the-spot TV reports in order to adequately collaborate with African partners and attract Russian business to Africa."

Professor Vladimir Shubin, from the Institute for African Studies , explained in an interview with me ten years ago, that political relations between Russia and Africa as well as the economic cooperation would attract more and more academic discussions, and such scholarly contributions, in essence, would help deepen understanding of the problems that impede building solid relationship or partnership with Russia.

In order to maintain the relationship, both Russia and Africa have to pay high attention to and take significant steps in promoting their achievements and highlighting the most development needs in a comprehensive way for mutual benefits using the media, according to the academic professor.

"African leaders do their best in developing bilateral relations," he added. "Truly and passionately, they come to Russia more often than ten years ago, but a lot still has to be done; both Russian and African media, in this case, have a huge role to play."

Quite recently, the question on the media was, again raised and discussed, at length, at the second Russia-Africa Public Forum. It is necessary to maximize the potential of public, cultural and business diplomacy using the basic instrument of the media, according to the Chairman of the Board of the Valdai International Discussion Club's Development and Support Foundation, Andrei Bystritsky, speaking at the plenary meeting of the Second Russia-Africa Public Forum held in November 2020.

"On the one hand, the Russian public knows little about Africa. And I guess people in Africa know little about Russia," he noted, and further explained that Russia and Africa need to communicate more. Creating necessary conditions for conversation is important, as communication is the foundation of development, and will help strengthen the mutually beneficial ties between Russia and Africa.

While highlighting the key obstacles facing the development of Russia-African ties during a session at Urals-Africa economic forum in Yekaterinburg, the Special Representative of the President of the Russian Federation for the Middle East and Africa, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Russia, Mikhail Bogdanov, assertively remarked: "One must admit that the practical span of Russian companies' business operations in Africa falls far below export capabilities, on one hand, and the huge natural resources of the continent, on the other."

According to him, one major obstacle has been insufficient knowledge of the economic potential, on the part of Russian entrepreneurs, needs and opportunities of the African region. "Poor knowledge of the African markets' structure and the characteristics of African customers by the Russian business community remains an undeniable fact. The Africans in their turn are insufficiently informed on the capabilities of potential Russian partners," Bogdanov stressed.

The past few years are marked by a noticeable re-activation of the whole complex of relations between Russia and Africa, Professor Irina Abramova, Director of the Institute for African Studies under the Russian Academy of Sciences, explicitly noted in an exclusive interview with me in May 2016.

The media should more actively inform Russians about the prospects for the development of the African continent, its history and culture. Unfortunately, the Russian man, in the street, does not know much about Africa. There has to be an active work in the information sphere with the African Diaspora in the Russian Federation.

For Africans, so far, Russia is associated with the Soviet Union, although majority of Africans still have very warm feelings towards Russia. But that aside, the Russian Federation in Africa, and Africa in the Russian Federation are very poorly represented in the media, according to Abramova.

"It is a direct challenge  to move from declarations to deeds by bringing together government, diplomatic, scientific, economic and financial resources in order to promote Russian business on the continent. I think and will strongly suggest that Russia should take the lead in preserving the balance of interests on the African continent as it seeks cooperation on the full range of African issues," she added.

On the other hand, Professor Abramova explained that Africans are poorly informed about the possibilities of Russian partnership. Interest in quality enhancing economic ties, including the line of private enterprises, with a tendency of growth. To do this, first of all, it is absolutely necessary to establish an effective exchange of information about the investment potential of the business, to focus efforts on expanding various partnerships.

A number of Moscow- based African ambassadors and senior diplomats have also acknowledged in separate interviews with me that the weak media connectivity between the two regions is one of the deep cracks or potholes in the post-Soviet diplomacy, most especially now when Russia is making efforts at strengthening its relations with the continent. Admittedly, Russians always refer to Africa as a priority region.

In their objective observations, despite prospects for strengthening relations, even as outlined during the first Russia-Africa summit held in 2019, African media and their representatives are hardly supported, and encouraged to work in the Russian Federation. The second Russia-Africa summit is planned for 2022 in Addis Ababa, capital of Ethiopia.

*Kester Kenn Klomegah is a versatile researcher and a passionate contributor, most of his well-resourced articles are reprinted elsewhere in a number of reputable foreign media.
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The President of the Small Scale miners Association of Ghana Michael Peprah has expressed disappointment in President Akufo-Addos endorsement of the burning of excavators seized from illegal miners.

The anti-galamsey taskforce 'Operation Halt' were deployed to river bodies and forest reserves to stop, seize and burn all mining equipment used for illegal mining popularly known as galamsey.

Speaking on the Morning Starr today, Michael Peprah says the comments by President Akufo-Addo shocks them.

When we had a stakeholder meeting with them, they didnt mention anything about the burning of excavators. I dont think the President is a lawyer because if he were, he wouldnt have spoken the way he did. And how dare we make the military appear as judges?.

We shouldnt embolden the military to go about burning excavators. Thats not how rule of law works in a countrywe were not expecting our president to speak like this, honestly.

The President on Wednesday challenged those who think otherwise to go to the court of law.

I say with all the emphasis at my command, that no rights can accrue to or flow from the criminal venture of galamsey. The equipment which is being used for an illegal or criminal purpose cannot confirm on the owner or any other person any rights whatsoever.

I know there are some who believe that the ongoing exercise of ridding our water bodies and forest zones of harmful equipment and machinery is unlawful and in some cases harsh. I strongly disagree and I will advise those who take a contrary view to go to court to vindicate their position if they so wish. That is what the rule of law is all about.

"Apart from the criminal violations in Act 703 (The Minerals Act), the activities of such persons (Illegal Miners) desecrates our environment, pollutes our water bodies and endanger the lives of present and future generations of Ghanaians," he emphasised.
Johannesburg, 27 May 2021: Devastation. That is what we have experienced in Nairobi and other parts of the country in the last few weeks. All because of floods.

And floods have a devastating effect on us all.

The ongoing heavy rains have led to loss of human life, damage to property, destruction of crops and loss of livestock. Images of families forced to move out of their houses in parts of the city, their effects washed away have swarmed the mainstream and social media.

Floods are causing a negative impact on the countrys economy. Communication links and infrastructure such as power plants ,roads and bridges are damaged, disrupting normal life and putting some economic activities to a standstill as people are forced to move. The collapse of buildings due to the heavy pressure brought about by the flood waters has stagnated businesses from being able to operate..

Most drainage systems within the city are not well maintained resulting in a lot of sewage spills over the rainy seasons. This is a serious health hazard. Bacteria and viruses cause disease, trigger allergic reactions and remain hazardous long after the flood waters have subsided.

Similarly, disruption to industry can lead to loss of livelihoods. These are the people that make the economy tick. The normal folk like you and I that help grow the economy of Kenya.

Damage to infrastructure is also causing long-term impacts, such as disruptions to the supply of clean water, wastewater treatment, electricity, transport, communication, education and health care. Loss of livelihoods, reduction in purchasing power and loss of land value in the floodplains is leaving individuals and communities more economically vulnerable.

For instance, this May alone, Kenya Red Cross Secretary General Dr. Asha Mohammed, said on 15 May 2021 that 6,800 families have been left homeless after their homes were submerged over recent days. Dr. Mohammed said the flooding has completely destroyed over 400 homes and damaged many more. Vehicles were submerged, streets swamped and communities were marooned. Four people died in the flooding in Kibera on the evening of 13 May.

The long-term psychological impact of this is traumatising for victims and their families. The thought of children becoming orphaned with no parents to look after them is especially distressing.

With a growing concern for the impact of flood damage, we need to strongly consider how this destruction can be avoided. And, there are sustainable solutions available in country that could prevent such devastation.

Of course, we have to protect wetlands and restore rivers to their natural courses but preventing floods also involves careful urban planning and home-building practices.

We must accept that the sewer systems within the Nairobi metropolis are compromised, either due to poor workmanship or wrong material choices.

One major cause of flooding in urban areas like Nairobi is the clogging of sewer systems. These sewer systems are prone to clogging up with waste, debris, sediment, tree roots and leaves. When we look at the more traditional sewer pipes, we know that they have a tendency to corrode and break, which only serves to compound the problem. Its time we look at a more sustainable alternative like thermoplastic sewer pipes and systems that can add value and reduce whole life costs such as maintenance and cleaning.

Further, to improve water management and protect the sewer system from damage, cities are beginning to revamp their underground drainage systems  by separating rainwater from the sewer system. This separation enables the wastewater treatment plant to function properly, without it being overburdened by large quantities of stormwater. With heavy rainfalls in Kenya this solution can be a gamechanger in cities like Nairobi too.

Its important that the central government, the county government and the Nairobi Metropolitan Services work closely with the private sector to help mitigate any future threats that may be caused by flooding and formulate a long-term solution.

By Simon Thomas, international consultant and board member at Megapipes Solutions Limited
A former Lands and Natural Resources Minister Alhaji Inusah Fuseini has said President Akufo-Addo is perpetrating illegality because there is no law in Ghana that warrants, mandates or authorises the burning of excavators in the small-scale mining sector.

Speaking on news analysis programme 505 on Class91.3FM on Wednesday, Mr Fuseini said he is disappointed in the President who swore to uphold the laws of the country to protect lives and property.

He added that the President who is also a lawyer of many years and in good standing at the Bar would justify such illegality.

Im so disappointed because this is a president who swore on the Bible to uphold the laws of the country including the constitution of the country and to protect lives and property. This is the president who swore that oath.

Now theres no law in Ghana that warrants, mandates, authorises the burning of excavators in the small scale mining sector and specifically, the laws that deal with mining in Ghana is the Minerals and Mining Act and in the amendment to the act, we have detailed as a country about seven steps that can be taken to deal with illegal small-scale mining.

I believe that if those steps are followed clearly, it will serve as enough disincentive for people who are bent on carrying on that illegal activity. But be as it may, I dont think the president can use his executive authority under Article 58 of the Constitution to justify illegality.

Alhaji Fuseini indicated that President Akufo-Addo would have been impeached in some advanced democracies regarding his endorsement of the burning of excavators.

In fact, elsewhere, the president would have been summoned before parliament in the British system to answer why hes flouting the laws of the country and in some jurisdictions, clearly, the statement that the president has made would have exposed him to impeachment proceedings because you cant swear to uphold the laws of the country and also be acting with impunity, you cant do that and thats why Im disappointed.

The president is not only the president of this country, hes a lawyer of many years experience and in good standing at the Bar and he should be seen to be upholding the laws of the country and encouraging people to uphold the laws of the country."

President Akufo-Addo on Wednesday challenged those who think otherwise to go to the court of law.

I say with all the emphasis at my command, that no rights can accrue to or flow from the criminal venture of galamsey. The equipment which is being used for an illegal or criminal purpose cannot confirm on the owner or any other person any rights whatsoever.

I know there are some who believe that the ongoing exercise of ridding our water bodies and forest zones of harmful equipment and machinery is unlawful and in some cases harsh. I strongly disagree and I will advise those who take a contrary view to go to court to vindicate their position if they so wish. That is what the rule of law is all about.

"Apart from the criminal violations in Act 703 (The Minerals Act), the activities of such persons (Illegal Miners) desecrates our environment, pollutes our water bodies and endanger the lives of present and future generations of Ghanaians," he emphasised.
Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central in the Northern Region, Mr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, has condemned President Nana Akufo-Addos justification of the burning of excavators and other mining equipment by members of the government's 'Operation Halt' team.

Mr. Murtala insists the President Akufo-Addos comments are reckless and scandalous.

President Akufo-Addo on Wednesday, May 26, 2021, asked persons who are dissatisfied with the governments approach in dealing with the galamsey menace, particularly the burning of excavators and other equipment to go to court to vindicate their position.

The President said he remains strongly opposed to the activity of illegal mining and the destruction of the country's land, water, and forest resources, and will ensure that everything possible is done to stop such activities.

I know there are some who believe that the ongoing exercise of ridding our water bodies and forest zones of harmful equipment and machinery is unlawful and in some cases harsh.

I strongly disagree, and I will advise those who take a contrary view to go to court to vindicate their position if they so wish. That is what the rule of law is all about, Akufo-Addo said.

But speaking on Citi TVs Breakfast Daily programme on Thursday, May 27, 2021, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed said the burning of the excavators is illegal per the Minerals and Mining Act, Act 995.

He said President Akufo-Addo being the first gentleman of the land should be the last person to attempt flouting the laws of the land.

This country is a country that is ruled by laws and perhaps the President was presumably ignorant of the Act (Minerals and Mining Act), but I dont think that he was. I just think he was just being reckless in his statement, and I say so because he is a lawyer of good standing, and he has been in practice for a long time. I believe that at the time, the Minerals and Mining Act of this country was passed, he was an MP, and he ought to have known that there are laws governing the conduct of those who engage in that business (galamsey), and it is scandalous more so when you have a country that is ruled by laws and the conduct of every single individual in this country is determined by rules and regulations including the conduct of the President.

For him, regardless of these palpable laws as stated and known to him and having said what he said, clearly, it is reckless on his part.

The Tamale Central lawmaker also chastised President Akufo-Addo for not sanctioning some members of his government for their alleged involvement in the menace.

This he says makes him (President Akufo-Addo), an accomplice of their acts.

Where we are now, it is as a result of the inept and the consciousness to protect those who are engaged in galamsey. There is no sincere desire to fight this menace because he, the President is an accomplice of the galamsey menace. People who were caught on tape taking money in the name of galamsey are still at post.

---citinewsroom
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O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie above thy deep and dreamless sleep the stars go by, yet in the dark streets shineth, the everlasting light. The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight  For Christ is born of Mary, and gathered all above.

IT WAS supposed to be a simple activity of inaugurating (some say commissioning) a community centre in a town about 12 kilometers from Kumasi. The Community Centre is named after Nana Akosua Tutuwaa, and is a 'memorial' centre, because Nana Osei Bosompem III, the Adako Jachie-hene was only four years when his mother departed from this earth.

Fred Frimpong (a lawyer of no mean repute) was the Chairman for the occasion, and the high table for the invited guests was bedecked by the colourful kente cloths worn by the Municipal Chief Executive, indefatigable Beatrice Serwaa Derchie, the M. P. for Ejisu constituency, handsome-looking John Kumah, (and other very important guests).

The host Nana Osei-Bosompem was gay in his kente cloth made of variegated colours with a top to match. So were all the chiefs under him: Nana Adwoa Sarfowaa Tufuwaa the Jachie-hemaa, Nana Mensah the Abontendom hene, Nana Kwaku Dua, Gyasehene, the Adontehene Nana Kankam, Nana Amoako Secretary.

For the Chairman, it was a home-coming, he being a brother to the Jachie-hene because they both trace their ancestry to Nsuta. History has it that the Abakomahene Nana Kwadwo Bosompem left Nsuta during the Kokompe War around 1888, and was advised by the Ashanti King at the time to stop his wanderings and settle down. Nana Kwadwo Bosompem was advised to see Oheneyere Kyerewaa Amponsem at Okyerekrom for the land beyond River Saman (where Adako Jachie is now located). The Adako  Jachie was to serve Nana Buabasa  which they still do. This was the time when Kwaw was growing rice at a place now called Kwamo; and the Asante King had ordered that his vassals should take as their booty the wealth of Nsensanso from the chief, Asua, leading to Nsensanso being called Fomasua.

And earlier on that same Sunday, the bridge over River Saman which had collapsed since 1968 and had been built with the active support and assistance of the Member of Parliament for Ejisu was also inaugurated. That was happy news for the local people of Okyerekrom, Kokobra, Tikrom, Ekyem, many of whose children acquired their Primary and Middle School education at Fomasua Anglican. In those days, 'Fomasua was the education hub and the town attracted students from Adako  Jachie, Ekyem, Tikrom, Baworo, Kwamo, Bebre, Anwomaso as well as the children of the staff of KNUST. The teachers: Mr. Hagan, Mr. Vulo, Mr. Antwi, Mrs. Essilfie really loved their work and polished the students. River Saman attracted the lorry drivers who would wash their lorries there. The boys would not need any payment: their joy was in going for a ride in the lorries. Now, the river serves another purpose  fish farming. The site where there was a fetish Obonkabin has been offered by the Adako-Jachie hene to the MP to develop four fish ponds for the youth  NPP Youth in Aqua  culture. This will surely engage the youth and earn them some income.

For accountability sake, the Town Devlopment Committee has been charged to run the Community Centre: they are to render proper account to the town. Social activities like funerals, weddings.. can be held there for a fee  thus relieving the school park of the burden that used to be brought on it.

The hard  working Ejisu Municiapl Chief Executive Ms Serwaa Derchie had very nice words for the Chief and elders of Adako  Jachie. Any time she visited the town, it was to inaugurate one project or another: the Chief's Palace, the Queen's Palace, the Adako-Jachie Stool house at Nsuta, the Basic School and J H. S. School Blocks, Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem I. C. T. Centre, the CHPS compound and a well-built public toilet. Of course, the Ejisu Municipal Assembly had supported the building of the Community Centre with 100 bags of cement, with the MP assisting substantially with the roofing.

At the ceremony, several personalities displayed their love for the town by offering various amounts: the Chairman and the Adako-Kyereme family offered nearly GH20,000, Sekyere Abankwa, GH1,000; DBS GH5,000; Kojo Ampong of ECOBANK GH5,000. Other donees included Prefoss GH10,000; Donyma GH8,000, Agyeiwaa Memorial Centre GH5,000; Osei Kufour GH5,000. (At the time of going to the press more donations were being received).

Veteran educationist I. K. Gyasi, was there in person and opined: This is worth reporting This is what delights Otumfuo Osei Tutu II about his chiefs  you know, Otumfuo is development  oriented. And we thought so, too, that when the history of Adako  Jachie comes to be written, the man at the centre now cannot be ignored, Nana Osei Bosompem III has helped to uplift the image of the town. From a small village of only about two hundred inhabitants, it has grown into a sprawling town of nearly 10,000. It is growing  owing to the foresight and vision of the chief. We should thank God for small mercies. Do we need to remind our cousins and friends (Lawyer Osei Kwame, Nkwantabisa, Nantwi) that now that the bridge over River Saman has been restored the tradition goes on. Our fathers used to visit one another at Adako-Jachie and Kokobra on foot using River Saman; we can do it by car and do not forget the heavy fufu meal at Nantwi's house last Easter!

[email protected]

From Africanus Owusu-Ansah


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Denyigba Lorlor Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in collaboration with Keta based Jubilee radio, have planned to engage residents of Keta Municipality in the Volta region to plan trees to boost the vegetation in the area.

The programme, dubbed 'The Big Plant Out', will help in planting 10,000 trees along fifty kilometre (50km) road from Anyanui to Anlo Afiadenyigba junction.

Mr Safo Mawuko Kutorwu, the Founder of the group, stated that some of the seedlings to be planted included mango, coconut, guava, apple, cashew and others.

He said, as part of the specialization process in tree planting, the move would will help achieve "Keep Ghana Green Project" for better living.

Mr Mawuko also disclosed to ModernGhana News that the organization has also engaged in many projects of tree planting exercise in many parts of the country and hoping to achieve more in Keta and its neighbouring districts.

He added that people from the Municipality will be employed to take care of the trees after the plantation and urged communities to help take care of them for their own benefit.

Madam G'zel Alli, a Jamaican based in Ghana who doubled as the Administrator and the Fundraiser for the organization, disclosed that the club attained most of its funds from social media especially YouTube.

She said, planting trees will help regulate good air for good health because trees play a vital role in human lives.

"When all trees die, the last man also dies," she said.

Mr G'zel appealed to the general public to desist from cutting and destroying trees and rather plant more for cutting one.

Mr Promise Yao Obobby, a member of the organization explained to ModernGhana News they used to buy and nurse most of the trees from people for the plantation.

He said the planting is divided into three phases with the first phase scheduled to commence from June 1.

Mr Obobby added that the second and third phases of the plantation in the Municipality will take place on 5th and 6th June respectively.

Mr Gameli Innocent Adika, the General Manager for Jubilee Radio told the media that, management from his outfit deemed it necessary to help in promoting such programmes since it will benefit every individual in the municipality.

He urges all to get involved in the programme since it will help in producing fruit crops for human consumption as well.
The Ranking Member of the Local Government Committee of Parliament, Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye, says the time is right for the election of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) considering the high number of persons applying for those positions.

According to him, conducting an election is the surest way of getting competent individuals to serve in those roles.

Nii Lante Vanderpuyes comment follows the fact that more than 1,300 persons have expressed interest in being MMDCEs in less than 300 local assemblies.

He noted that while the election of MMDCEs is important, he does not agree with plans to make the election partisan.

I totally support the idea for the election of MMDCEs, just that I am against the politicization of that position. I believe that we should open up for qualified Ghanaians irrespective of political affiliation. If we want to get competent people to be able to man the MMDAs, we should open up so that people apply, and when they apply the right person is selected.

In 2019, a national referendum was scheduled to take place to amend Article 55 (3) of the Constitution, which currently bars political parties from participating in district-level elections.

The referendum was eventually canceled because there was no bipartisan consensus.

No significant commitment has since been made to ensure the election of MMDCEs, even though it was a major campaign promise of the New Patriotic Party prior to the 2016 election.

MMDCEs are currently appointed by the President, however, amending Article 243 (1) of the 1992 Constitution would enable the public to vote for these local government officials.

In January 2021, the National Association of Local Authorities of Ghana (NALAG), urged Parliament to restart the conversation on the election of MMDCEs, indicating that Ghana has fallen behind some of its peers in Africa in that regard.

---citinewsroom
Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram Samuel Nartey George says he backs the things social media commentator Twene Jonas has been speaking about.

He said the 'Glass Nkoaa activist is speaking the bitter truth nobody wants to hear regarding the fight against galamsey.

Twene Jonas recently incurred curses from individuals and chiefs who found displeasure in his recent live video which insinuated that most chiefs are behind galamseyers in destroying the community.

I think he is speaking the hard truth, Sam George told Giovani Caleb on the 3FM Drive on Wednesday.

Ghanaians know the truth but we hate to be told the truth and we like to be lied to and so when you see someone who is blunt with the truth and do tell how it is and says it to you how it ought to be said, we end up taking issues with them. Honestly, speaking, the thing Twene Jonas has been saying which part of it do we not agree with? What part of the facts that the system is broken in Ghana that he points out can we disagree with? the legislator quizzed.

Sam George said the blame should be placed at the doorstep of the chiefs who are the custodians of the land with the responsibility to protect people, land and water bodies that have been left destroyed by the activities of illegal miners popularly known as galamsey.

"We cannot expect him to say it any better when politicians and chiefs are the ones involved in the illegal activities of galamsey.

When politicians are the ones behind those who do galamsey how then do you expect him to be nice to us politicians because we are the problem? When chiefs are the ones supporting galamsey and are destroying our water bodies and I am not saying he should go and insult, but he has every right to call out a chief.

---3news.com
The National Labour Commission (NLC) has ordered the Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in the Ashanti Region to call off its strike with immediate effect and appear before it for negotiations on their demands.

According to NLC, the striking parties should appear before it on Wednesday, June 2, 2021.

Members of the Chapter have declared an indefinite strike starting Thursday, 27th May 2021, after they started with a one-week sit-down strike to protest the posting of the two haematologists to the Laboratory Service Department of the hospital by the facilitys management.

They have vowed to call off the strike only if the two are withdrawn from the hospital's laboratory unit.

Also, the Ashanti Regional Branch of Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (GAMLS) and others, have declared an indefinite strike in solidarity with their colleagues at KATH.

They also insist that until those appointments are reversed, they will not return to work.

The National Labour Commission hereby directs that with this intervention and in pursuance of section 161 of the Labour Act 2003 (Act 651), the Union should call off the ongoing strike and/or any further intended action immediately for the parties to appear before the Commission as scheduled.

The NLC also said, In view of the COVID-19 protocols, the representation by each side is restricted to a maximum of two (2) and this must also be noted.

The Commission made this known in a statement issued to the striking party on Thursday, May 27, 2021.

---citinewroom
Laboratory scientists in the Savannah Region are the latest to also join other regions in solidarity with their colleagues at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), who have laid down their tools over the posting of two clinical haematologists to the laboratory unit at the health facility.

The Ashanti Regional Chapter of the Association on Thursday 27th May, 2021, declared an indefinite strike involving all of its members over the stalemate.

The lab scientists at KATH had been on a one-week sit-down strike before the declaration of the indefinite strike on Thursday.

They have vowed to call off the strike only if the two are withdrawn from the hospital's laboratory unit.

But already, members of the Association in some other regions including Bono, Bono East, and Ashanti, have all backed their colleagues at KATH.

The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has warned that it will be forced to react if either the government or the management of KATH heeds the demands of the lab scientists.

The Ministry of Health has appealed to the lab scientists to call off the strike.

---citinewsroom
Nairobi, May 27, 2021, African Women in Agricultural Research and Development, AWARD, has released a report highlighting how gender-responsive agricultural research and development coupled with intentional focus on addressing inequalities in access to innovations between men and women, can propel agricultural-driven development.

Dubbed Agspirations:Inspiring stories of African agriculture, volume 1, the report forms part of a growing body of knowledge that has demonstrated the gains of embracing gender-responsive research and increasing the number of female agricultural scientists in leadership positions.

The world needs urgent and concerted efforts toward enabling agricultural-dependent communities to thrive in the face of a changing climate. The key to finding solutions is an enhanced focus on the systemic causes of the gender divide in various sectors, including science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), states the AgSpirationsreport.

The report further notes that smallholder farmers across Africa are looking to science to boost farm productivity and to tackle emerging threats, partiuclarly with regards to climate change and pandemics as demonstrated by COVID-19. Gender and diversity in agricultural research are crucial to create and implement effective solutions to these critical issues and contribute to broader development goals.

Less than a quarter of agricultural researchers in Sub-Saharan Africa are women and only 14 per cent of those in leadership positions in agricultural research are women, according to 2017 research commissioned by AWARD. Furthermore, women account for less than 16 percent of the research labour force in agricultural sciences in francophone African countries.

To inspire more women into research, and invest in African women scientists working to improve the livelihoods of rural populations, AWARD has partnered with academic institutions, development agencies and governments to implement various initiatives and programmes.

The flagship AWARD Fellowship has, for the last 13 years, been working with women agricultural research scientists who undertake a career-development programme that builds their leadership, mentoring, and scientific research skills. To date, the Fellowship has been offered to 534 of the continents top women scientists, referred to as AWARD Fellows, and has benefitted more than 1,000 individuals who participated in the programme as mentors and Fellows mentees. The AWARD Fellows continue to record remarkable growth in their careers, with most taking up senior leadership positions, including as vice-chancellors, centre directors and policymakers.

Cognizant of the need to invest in both male and female researchers to build resilient agricultural systems, AWARD is also implementing the One Planet Fellowship. This US$19.2 million initiative, co-managed with the AgropolisFondation, is building a robust pipeline of scientists working on solutions to help Africas smallholder farmers adapt to a changing climate and forging intercontinental collaborations with European scientists for climate change research.

The 2019 and 2020 cohorts of One Planet Fellowship participants include 89 laureate candidates and 89 mentors, selected from 2,426 applicants across 14 sub-Saharan African countries. The researchers have carried out groundbreaking work ranging from promoting the adoption of climate-smart technologies to improving African seed systems in the context of climate change.

Through the One Planet Fellowship, we fostered a robust global network of capable and influential researchers and research leaders able to deploy a gender lens to analyze their researchs potential to bridge the gender gap in African agriculture and help smallholders adapt to a changing climate. While this is a harsh reminder of the reality of the imbalance between demand and supply of capacity development on the continent, it is also an opportunity for increased partnerships to build local talent to address climate change in Africa, noted outgoing AWARD Director Dr. Wanjiru Kamau-Rutenberg.

AWARD has also partnered with eight national agricultural research institutions in six African countries, including the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), Nigerias the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta(FUNAAB), and Tanzanias Nelson MandelaAfrican Institute of Science and Technology to customize and deploy interventions that promote gender responsiveness. These include institutional fellowship and mentoring programmes and offering support to partner institutions to develop their gender strategies and leadership programmes.

Gender balance is not only an issue of equity and equality, but also of efficiency. Indeed, integrating gender is key to greater effectiveness. Women all over the world are, whether recognized or not, critical players in decision-making processes, emphasized Dr Marie-Christine Cormier-Salem, Director of Agropolis Fondation, a key AWARD partner.

2009 AWARD Fellow, Florence Olubayo from the University of Nairobi Kenya

2014 AWARD Fellow Binta Iliyasu from Nigeria

Jane Nabawanuka, Research Officer Kwanda Agricultural Research Institute, Kampala, Uganda
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Accra, Ghana, May 26, 2021. The two-day meeting of the ECOWAS Council of the Wise ended on 25th May 2021 in Accra with the orientation of nominees to the Council and the appointment of its leadership.

Former President of Nigeria, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan was appointed as Chair while Madam Hadja Saran Daraba, former Executive Secretary of the Mano River Union of Guinea will serve as Vice Chair in the newly reconstituted Council.

The ECOWAS Council of the Wise was established by the 1999 Protocol Relating to the Mechanism for Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping, and Security, making it a key pillar in ECOWAS Peace and Security Architecture as a supporting organ to the regions Mediation and Security Council.

Created specifically for preventive diplomacy and mediation interventions in Member States, the Councils functionality diminished over time. However, the rising insecurity and recently generated socio-political tensions as well as their impact on structural and proximate peace and security have reinforced the need to urgently have a new Council of the Wise composed to assist ECOWAS in delivering on its peace and stability mandate as a necessary condition for continuous development and regional integration efforts, according to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration of Ghana, Ms Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, in her opening remarks at the meeting in Accra.

The two-day orientation workshop is seen as pertinent, as it is intended to update Your Excellencies through presentations of horizontal scanning of the current peace and security situation in the region, the relevant ECOWAS legal and normative instruments, policy documents, including ECOWAS Mediation Guidelines, and the Statute, which outlines the mandate, composition, functions, and mode of operations of the Council of the Wise, she told the nominees to the Council.

She stated that the nominees to the Council of the Wise were availing their experiences and expertise in conflict prevention and resolution for the good of the entire ECOWAS Community.

Expressing similar optimism in his opening speech, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Mr. Jean-Claude Kassi Brou, stated that with the array of the nominated eminent personalities, the reconstituted Council of the Wise is now ready to discharge spelt out duties as mediators, conciliators and facilitators in the management and resolution of disputes and conflicts in the region.

The President of the Commission who was represented by the institutions Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Gen. Francis Behanzin, further expressed the conviction that the wealth of experience of the nominees would positively contribute to mitigating and resolving the growing regional peace and security challenges in West Africa.

The appointments of nominees to the Council of the Wise by Member States reflect a gender parity and inclusivity that is necessary for participatory political process and sustainable peace in the region, in accordance with the United Nations Ssecurity Council Resolution 1325, which promotes the inclusion of women in peace and security matters.

The ECOWAS Council of the Wise is expected to be affiliated to the Pan-African Network of the Wise (PANWISE) to serve as its regional structure in line with the principle of subsidiarity.

The Pan-African Network of the Wise (PANWISE) was established in 2013 to foster coherence, collaboration, and complementarity in the field of preventive diplomacy and mediation between the Regional Economic Communities and the African Union Commission.
Abuja, Nigeria, May 26, 2021. The government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria represented by the Minister of Police Affairs Mr. Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi has inaugurated the West African Police Information System (WAPIS) Data Centre in Abuja on the 26th of May 2021 at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters.

Opening the Inauguration ceremony, the Inspector General of the Nigeria Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba expressed that the operation of the WAPIS Programme at this critical period of our National/regional security challenges will graciously enrich the Nigeria Police Force in her efforts to combat organized and transnational crimes. The Programme which intends to boast information sharing among the West African States will in no small measure stimulate breakthrough and further provide a platform for coordinated approach to crime detection, prevention, persecution, rehabilitation as well as projection.

The Vice President of the ECOWAS Commission, Madam Finda Koroma, expressed the low level of information and Data exchange within the region to effectively fight against organized crime and terrorism, and she recalled the importance of the WAPIS program which has been fully integrated into the ECOWAS action plan against terrorism 2020-2024. Madam Koroma also pleaded for the extension of the program for two additional years in order to allow Nigeria and other ECOWAS member states to benefit from this important program.

Recognizing the political and operational involvement of the Nigerian government, the Executive Director of INTERPOL Mr. Carl Alexandre reminded that without effective police information exchange within the region, as well as between the region and the rest of the world, no enforcement strategy can effectively tackle the threats of terrorism and organized crime.

The Deputy Head of Mission of the EU delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Alexandre Borges Gomes stressed that the WAPIS programme is a clear illustration of the wish of like-minded partners like Nigeria, the EU, ECOWAS and INTERPOL to work closely together to address transnational crime.

Concluding the remarks, the Minister of Police Affairs Mr. Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi stated: thus Permit me to at this point express my sincere gratitude to all the key players in this project  INTERPOL, ECOWAS and indeed the European Union, whose funding has made it possible for Member countries to benefit from this remarkable programme aimed at combating crime.

The WAPIS Centre is a Data Collection and Registration Centre that will be responsible for the operationalization of the WAPIS System in Nigeria. This Centre will serve as a catalyst for security integration and interagency collaboration in the country, by bringing together all the security apparatus into the process of collection, storage and sharing of criminal data at national, regional and global level through INTERPOL I-24/7 channel. The WAPIS Centre will promote the sharing of criminal data in real time, enhancing, inter-alia the regional fight against organized crime and terrorism. Thereby supporting the investigation of major crimes and the frontline officers in dealing with the movement of persons and goods at the border crossing points.

Funded by the European Union under the aegis of the ECOWAS Commission, the WAPIS Programme works toward the creation of national police data systems in each ECOWAS Member States, Mauritania and Chad together with the development of a regional platform for stronger police data exchange.
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On the occasion of Menstrual Hygiene Day, the Bongo Youth Alliance (BOYA) wish to call on government to waive taxes in sanitary pads to address period poverty in Ghana. Menstrual Hygiene Day is an annual awareness day which is observed on 28th May every year to highlight the importance of good menstrual hygiene management at a global level.

It is not more a widespread notion and perception that many girls in Africa and rural Ghana miss school or drop out of school during menstruation, but a reality. Menstruation forms part of the basic natural fundamental component of the life of girls and women. The extent to which girls can attain their full potentials depends on their welfare and wellbeing.

Access to education is the surest path to progress and prosperity. Therefore, anything that has the potential to impede the girls education should not be encouraged. It is in line with this that the government took the bull by the horn to introduce free senior high schools to address the inequalities in accessing secondary education in Ghana. But it appears there are equally other important factors that could prevent girls from attending school full time.

One such factor is the lack of sanitary pads for school girls. All over sub-Saharan Africa, it has emerged that millions of girls missed school during menstruation. According to the UNICEF water and sanitation in schools monitoring report, 11.5 million women in Ghana lack hygiene/sanitation management facilities.

Pads are important to the development of young girls. Many rural girls are absent from school during their period. The provision of sanitary pads not only helps keep girls in school but they are also considered a human right for promoting the dignity and safety of women and girls (Nancy Miller, PATH 2018). In northern Ghana, about 95% of girls do not attend school during the menstrual period; this is according to research conducted by the Catholic Relief Services (CRS) and the University for Development Studies (UDS) WASH Center, and the Desert Research Institute (DRI).

In all these, it has emerged that girls do not have access to sanitary pads because the product appears to be expensive for their parents to afford. So they absent themselves from school during their period. Those who are bold to go to school during their period but dont have sanitary pads tend to use rags, cloths, old newspaper, leaves, etc. improvised as sanitary pads. Some girls have resorted to transactional sex that is sex in exchange for a pad in many rural homes in Ghana. This has resulted in teenage pregnancy, child marriage, among others.

Currently, 20% luxury tax and 12.5% VAT applies to each sanitary pad that is imported into the country has made the commodity very expensive and inaccessible to many vulnerable girls in Ghana. I wonder what is luxurious about sanitary pads. Many NGOs, civil society, and faith-based organizations have called on successive governments to waive taxes on the importation of sanitary pads and other sanitary wares in order to make them less expensive and accessible.

During the 2020 campaign, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) promised in their manifesto that they will abolish all taxes on sanitary pads. But when the 2021 budget and fiscal planning of the government was presented to parliament in March this year, it failed to capture the tax relief component of sanitary pads contrary to their manifesto promise.

As Ghana joins the rest of the world to mark the World Menstrual Hygiene today the 28th of May 2021, I wish to renew calls on this government to honor her campaign promise to abolish taxes on sanitary pads in order to make it more affordable and accessible. Indeed, countries like Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, Rwanda, and India among others have abolished taxes on sanitary pads so Ghana can also do it.

In fact, whiles I call on the government to waive taxes on sanitary pads as interim or ad hoc measures, I further wish to urge the government to prioritize and facilitate the production of sanitary pads locally through the one district one factory initiative. This will in the long run create jobs and also make the commodity cheap, affordable, and accessible to the vulnerable in society.

ABOUT BONGO YOUTH ALLIANCE (BOYA)

BOYA is a youth focused and youth oriented organization in the Bongo district that seeks to propel the development of the district through effective youth participation in the decision making process.The overall goals of the Bongo Youth Alliance (BOYA) is to see an accerelated mindset of the youth in Bongo through education,capacity building and dialogue.This will be the broader spectrum within which the activities of BOYA resolves

Thank you.

Azure Imoro Abdulai

The writer is the convener of the Bongo Youth Alliance Accra (BOYA).

Tel: 0209250685/0541694093-Whatsapp
Head of Research and Training Unit the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC), Benjamin Nsiah says there is no way government's proposed 88 hospitals can be built and completed in 2021.

Last year, President Akufo-Addo announced plans to construct hospitals in some 88 districts across the country.

There are 88 districts in our country without district hospitals; we have six (6) new regions without regional hospitals; we do not have five infectious disease control centres dotted across the country; and we do not have enough testing and isolation centres for diseases like COVD-19. We must do something urgently about this.

That is why government has decided to undertake a major investment in our healthcare infrastructure, the largest in our history. We will, this year, begin constructing 88 hospitals in the districts without hospitals, the President said in his eighth Covid-19 address to the Nation last year.

With the hospitals yet to see the light of day and just Ghc45.5million allocated for Health Infrastructure in the 2021 budget, Benjamin Nsiah of COPEC Ghana is doubtful.

In a statement from the researcher, he indicated that the funds cannot even construct two hospitals.

If the government wants to reduce poverty, then we need good infrastructure to support our growth. These infrastructures improve service delivery as well as its quality. One key area in improving human development is health service delivery and infrastructure because it improves life expectancy of a country. However, allocations to health infrastructure are woefully inadequate in our 2021 Budget.

The money allocated for Health Infrastructure is Ghc45.5million. This money can't build two state-of-the-art hospitals in this country this year not to talk of 88 or 111 hospitals, part of the statement from Benjamin Nsiah reads.

With so much infrastructure deficit in various sectors of the country, the head of the Research and Training Unit at COPEC wants Ghana to amend the constitution, and consider terminal budgets just like the term of office of the president because less than 20% of the budget targets for infrastructure are achieved.

He believes once that is done, it will ensure more than 80% of the countrys infrastructure targets are achieved.

Read the statement from Benjamin Nsiah below:

If the government wants to reduce poverty, then we need good infrastructure to support our growth. These infrastructures improve service delivery as well as its quality. One key area in improving human development is health service delivery and infrastructure because it improves life expectancy of a country. However, allocations to health infrastructure are woefully inadequate in our 2021 Budget.

The money allocated for Health Infrastructure is Ghc45.5million. This money can't build two state-of-the-art hospitals in this country this year not to talk of 88 or 111 hospitals.

I think the 88 or 111 hospitals are projects earmarked for four the year, 2nd term of the president and not this year 2021. I doubt if one of the 88 hospitals will be completed this year.

In the education sector, only Ghc87.4million is allocated for capital expenditure amidst all the infrastructure deficits negatively affecting the implementation of the FSHS? How do we achieve quality education if there is inadequate infrastructure to support increasing enrollment figures.

Human development depends on education, health and per capita which looks at standard of living. Per capita does not actually measure the standard of living because of the issue of inequality. Therefore, investing in health and education hold the key to human development.

To achieve more than 80% of our infrastructure targets, I think Ghana Should amend the constitution, and consider Terminal budgets just like the term of office of the president because less than 20% of our budget targets for infrastructure are achieved.

We must always remember that the budget is not a campaign promise and for that matter, the need to employ SMART measures in formulating our budget statements

Do you still believe 88 or 111 health facilities will be completed in 2021?

We wait to see....

God bless our homeland Ghana

Benjamin Nsiah

Head of Research and Training Unit

COPEC Ghana
Ken Mwathe is the Policy and communications coordinator at BirdLife International Africa

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On 18th May 2021, President Emmanuel Macron of France hosted the Sustainable Financing for Africa Summit in Paris. The meeting, coming in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic which has had devastating socio-economic impacts on Africa economies, brought together more than 30 African and European leaders to rally for financial support to aid Africas post-pandemic economic recovery.

According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the impact of the pandemic has had a severe impact on economies, with Africa facing a budget shortfall of up to $ 290 billion up to 2023. This situation could derail Africas development agenda. A key outcome of the summit was a call to ramp up of vaccination on the continent and provide access to sustainable financing to help African countries recover from the impact of COVID-19.

In December 2020, African countries meeting at the 8th special session of the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN) rolled out the Africa Green Stimulus Programme to support post Covid recovery. This comprehensive plan is aimed at helping boost economies and social systems to help Africa build back better from the Covid 19 pandemic. Crucially, the Ministers called for the protection and restoration of biodiversity, noting the need for programmes to link, biodiversity conservation, climate action, pollution reduction, and socio-economic equity for an effective COVID-19 recovery.

It is not enough for Africa to recover from the pandemic. Building back better should proceed in a manner that does not harm nature and biodiversity or exacerbate the impacts of climate change. Recovery projects in key sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture and energy should be meticulously planned to avoid or mitigate any negative impacts and restore areas that are crucial for fauna and flora in the continent. These areas are also critical sources of water and provide fresh air and other ecosystem services such as absorption of carbon. The current trend where oil pipelines, agricultural development, superhighways and mega dams take over parts of national parks, wetlands and key biodiversity areas will not promote the green agenda but will lead to loss of biodiversity, increased poverty and community susceptibility to climate change.

One of the ways through which Africa can recover is by incorporating green recovery aspects at the core of Africas economic strategies. There are a number of sectors which can be the building blocks of such a recovery including infrastructure, agriculture and energy. While Africa is endowed with significant renewable energy resources, more than 500 million people do not have access to power, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). In spite of this demand, green investments into the sector are still meagre, with Africas energy transition presenting a $100 billion annual investment opportunity yet to be exploited, according to the African Development Bank (AfDB). Taking the cue, a number of African countries are hinging their green recovery on energy transition. An example is Nigeria , where the government is implementing the countys largest investment in solar energy as part of the COVID-19 recovery strategy. The programme known as Solar Power Naija will focus on installing 5 million solar home systems, enabling up to 25 million people access electricity, while reducing emissions.

Multilateral Finance Institutions (MFIs) and indeed all development partners have a key role to play in ensuring that post Covid financing supports true green recovery. First, funders should develop funding criteria against which proposed recovery programmes will be checked. For example, energy and other infrastructure should not lead to killing of birds or wildlife or damage to key habitats. Secondly, recovery programmes must be informed by strategic environmental assessments and other crucial studies. Thirdly, transparent monitoring mechanisms should be put in place to enable tracking and reporting of finances and investments. Finally, funders should insist on effective public participation, including local communities and civil society in the development and implementation of covid recovery projects.

While Covid 19 has been a big challenge to Africa and its economies, it offers governments an opportunity to build back better by spurring green recovery and growth, protecting biodiversity and ecosystems while helping people to be climate change and pandemic resilient.

Mr Mwathe is the Policy and communications coordinator at BirdLife International Africa.

Email: [email protected]
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The European Commission has selected global news agency AFP following a public bid to participate in three European hubs aimed at fighting disinformation in France, Eastern Europe and the Benelux countries of Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.

The hubs  CEDMO in France; DE FACTO in Eastern Europe; and EDMO BELUX in the Benelux  will for the first time bring together fact-checking media, university analysts and specialists in media education to combat the spread of disinformation.

They will offer real-time fact checks on the biggest false stories and research into disinformation by leading universities as well as providing tools and tutorials to let people expose disinformation themselves.

AFP is proud to take part in this innovative initiative to bring together the major actors against disinformation, map out the networks that spread false news on the internet, and decrypt their strategies and the impact of this phenomenon on our societies. It is a major issue, said AFP chairman and chief executive Fabrice Fries.

In France, AFP will work with the media research arm of the Paris Institute of Political Studies, the French centre for media and information literacy CLEMI and leading fact checkers in the French media.

In Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, AFP will mainly work with the Charles University in Prague and the Kempelen Institute of Intelligent Technologies in Bratislava, which will work on improving algorithms to detect disinformation.

Finally, for the Benelux, the consortium will include notably Vrije Universiteit Brussel and the RTL news group in Luxembourg.

The anti-disinformation hubs will be linked to the European Digital Media Observatory , launched by the European Union last year and based in Florence, Italy.

The European Commissions choice is a great recognition of AFPs work against disinformation since 2017, a field in which our agency is a world leader, said AFP global news director Phil Chetwynd.

AFP has more than 100 fact checkers covering 85 countries, who work closely with their colleagues in the agency. They work in more than 20 languages from Malay to Polish, Burmese, Dutch, and Greek. AFP is a member of the International Fact-Checking Network, which has established principles for fact-checking. It is also part of the Facebook programme to expose misinformation on the social network.
Johannesburg, 27 May 2021  The latest data from AfroCentric, SAs most diversified majority black-owned health group listed on the JSE, has revealed that in the Afrocentric managed care population the cumulative Covid-19 positive hospital admissions have now reached 68,814, which is an increase of 893 admissions between 11 and 18 May this year. Additionally, the number of in-hospital deaths attributed to Covid-19 has climbed by 103 patients during the same week, putting the death toll at 10,213 for the AfroCentric managed care population.

This is according to Dr Lungi Nyathi, Managing Executive for Clinical Risk and Advisory at Medscheme, a subsidiary of AfroCentric Group. Our latest statistics provide evidence of a surge in Covid-19 admissions in the Northern Cape, North West, Free State and Gauteng, explains Dr Nyathi. So far, these seem to be hotspots for new infections, with little evidence of a resurgence in Eastern Cape, KZN, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and the Western Cape, so far.

The data cited has been compiled by AfroCentric Groups Health Intelligence Unit, which updates its information each week. The data is derived from Medschemes Hospital Benefit Management Programme, which captures detailed information related to hospital admissions for the medical schemes Medscheme manages.

Dr Nyathi says that, while the Northern Cape, North West, Free State and Gauteng are currently of particular concern, every province in the country seems to have at least one Covid-19 hotspot at present.

Although some of these districts may have relatively low case incidences, the significant rise in percentage changes should be taken as a serious warning. Nationally, the latest surge in admissions is still low when compared to the massive spikes that the country saw around July and December of 2020 and January 2021, but we believe that it should not be taken any less seriously.

AfroCentric vaccination sites  targeting 7,000 per day

Dr Nyathi adds that even though this may be the start of the expected third Covid-19 wave, there is a reason to be optimistic. South Africas vaccine rollout is steadily underway. It is critical that we ramp up quickly and have more registrations in order to vaccinate those at highest risk ahead of the third wave.

Our country has made significant sacrifices in our efforts to contain the virus, and we need to ensure that hasnt been in vain. With reasonable precautions in place and the continued rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine, I believe South Africa can continue to weather  and come through  this storm.

AfroCentric Group has been vaccinating eligible South Africans since the beginning of the Phase 2 of the national roll-out, and will be managing sites in Roodepoort, Centurion, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, and Durban. The Roodepoort and Centurion sites are already live and are actively vaccinating.

60% of our vaccinations are for those over 60, and the rest for various healthcare workers, says Dr Nyathi, We anticipate that we will do over 7,000 vaccines per day when all sites have been rolled out.

Beyond vaccination, AfroCentric Group has been actively doing its part to help South Africa manage the spread of the pandemic in other ways. Earlier in the year, the Group began rolling out Covid-19 rapid testing stations, in partnership with Navomix Health, a passenger medical services provider to the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), at two major South African airports. In addition, AfroCentric has also made its network of 3,000 experienced and registered nurses available to travel anywhere in the country to assist vaccination administering, starting with vaccinations in old age homes.
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The Accra Circuit Court 2 has denied bail to five police officers who were arrested after a complaint of alleged extortion was filed against them.

The five are; General Constable Wishwell Odoo, General Constable Lawal Agyapong, General Constable Evans Arawassi, General Constable Sena Kuvordo and Lance Corporal Redeemer Agama.

They are facing three counts of criminal charges namely conspiracy to commit robbery, robbery, and attempted bribery.

According to the facts of the case as presented by ASP Evans Akesse, the policemen stopped the complainant on the UPSA road and eventually coerced him into transferring GHS 20,000 to a mobile money account.

ASP Kesse also said the five serving policemen went on to give a GHS 2,000 bribe offer to the investigator on the case in an attempt to get him to drop the case against them.

Though the legal team for the policemen made a case for bail for the servicemen, with vehement opposition from the Prosecution, the Court in exercising its discretion remanded the 5 into police custody to reappear on June 9.

About the alleged extortion

The police in a statement on May 21, 2021, said a report was received at the Kaneshie Police Station to the effect that around 2:00 am, the complainant was onboard an Uber from Madina to Airport, when about five police officers who were armed and onboard an Operation Calm Life Police Vehicle, intercepted the Uber Vehicle at UPSA road.

The officers accused him of being a fraudster and arrested him, asking the Uber vehicle to go. He reported that the Police Officers forced him to transfer an amount of GHS 20,000 into a Mobile money account and abandoned him to his fate.

The Police Command further indicated that a similar report was made at the Achimota police station by a complainant who said at 11:23 PM on the same day, he was driving an unregistered Mercedez Benz when he was stopped by three policemen at Hatso, off the Atomic-Madina road.

According to the complainant, the policemen searched his car, after which he was arrested on grounds of being a cyber fraudster. He was then escorted to Silver Star towers at Airport and forced to withdraw a sum of GHS 20,000 from his ATM for them.

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In launching its second apparent coup within a year, Mali's military risks weakening the already-fragile Sahel state in the face of a brutal jihadist insurgency, experts say.

In a move that provoked diplomatic uproar, the army this week detained Mali's interim president and prime minister and stripped them of their powers, before releasing them Thursday.

It is the second apparent military coup in nine months, underscoring deep political dysfunction in the war-torn nation.

Military officers led by Colonel Assimi Goita had already launched a putsch in August, deposing elected president Ibrahim Boubacar Keita.

His overthrow came after weeks-long protests against the then-president over perceived corruption and his failure to end the bloody insurgency.

Threatened by international sanctions, the army handed power to a nominally civilian caretaker government headed by President Bah Ndaw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane.

But the army deposed the pair after a government reshuffle that would have replaced two putschists serving as the defence and security ministers.

Mali. By AFP (AFP)

Goita is now in charge, according to diplomats and military officers.

Boubacar Ba, a researcher in Mali's capital Bamako, said the army would struggle to struggle to manage the country's fractious politics while "fighting on the ground at the same time".

A brutal jihadist conflict that first emerged in 2012, and has since spread to Burkina Faso and Niger, has left swathes of the vast nation of 19 million people outside government control.

Chronic instability

Despite the army's pledges to boost security, jihadist attacks continued unabated after the August coup.

Its latest power play also comes at a time when insurgents have increasingly exerted their influence in regions they control.

In early May, for example, militants in northern Mali assembled three thieves in a public square and chopped off their right hands and left feet. Such a show of force had not been seen in Mali for years.

Mali's Association for Human Rights said that the military's "second coup" would contribute even more to the "weakening of the country".

For Yvan Guichaoua, a Sahel specialist at the University of Kent, the political chaos in Bamako will only benefit jihadists.

He explained that the Sahel's main jihadist alliance -- the al-Qaeda-aligned Group to Support Islam and Muslims -- is not simply an armed group, for example, but a political force that could become more attractive.

Pointing to Mali's chronic instability, he added that notions of a civil revival and a return to normal governance in the country are a "pipe dream."

'Coup within a coup'

The Malian military's actions also pose a dilemma for France, the former colonial power, which has more than 5,000 troops in the Sahel as part of its anti-jihadist operation, Barkhane.

French President Emmanuel Macron called the arrests of the president and prime minister a "coup d'etat in an unacceptable coup d'etat" and threatened sanctions.

Experts argue that sanctions are unlikely, however.

Protesters burn a tricolore flag in Bamako on Thursday during a demonstration against French influence in Mali. By Michele Cattani (AFP)

"If Goita and Mali are placed under sanctions, Barkhane will be unable to stay (in Mali) for long or to stay without problems," said Nicolas Normand, a former French ambassador to Mali.

"The jihadists could take power in a situation of chaos."

Turmoil in the country will complicate France's ongoing attempt to pare down its costly deployment in the Sahel.

"It's a whole process that is destabilised," said Antoine Glaser, a French analyst specialist on Africa.
Three Sunyani East Constituency executives of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Sunyani were on Wednesday arraigned at Fiapre in the Sunyani West Municipality for allegedly assaulting the Party's constituency communication Director.

The Circuit Court presided over by Miss Rita Amoanywaa Adusa adjourned the case, for the accused persons to re-appear before it on Wednesday, June 23 this year.

They are Messrs. Evans Kyere, a Deputy Organizer, Mohammed Ibn Ahmed, Youth Organizer and Christian Gyabaah, a Research and Electoral Officer were all charged with assault.

According to the prosecution, Inspector Emmanuel Sampson, the complainant, Mr. Maxwell Mahama who is also the Sunyani Municipal Manager of the National Health Insurance Scheme was assaulted on Saturday, March 6 this year at a meeting held at the Constituency's Office.

He said the meeting was hosting a team of researchers from Accra who were on a regional fact finding mission to ascertain what caused the NNP to lose votes in the Bono Region during the Election 2020 and other matters relating to the Party's progress in the constituency.

Inspector Sampson said in the course of the meeting Kyere and Gyabaah raised concerns that Mahama had been suspended by the Bono Regional Secretariat of the Party and therefore could not be part of the meeting.

He said Mahama requested to clarify the issues regarding his suspension, saying immediately Mahama had finished addressing the meeting, the three accused persons allegedly became offended and assaulted him.

Inspector Sampson said the complainant reported the matter to the Police where he was issued with medical report form, which he had since returned to the Police, fully endorsed by Dr. Justice Owusu-Achiaw, a Medical Officer at the Sunyani Municipal Hospital.

The accused persons were consequently arrested and arraigned.

GNA
Private Medical Laboratories situated around public health facilities in the Ashanti Region are recording high patronage following a strike by members of the Ghana Medical Laboratory Scientists at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH).

Patients are being turned away at public health labs as a result of the strike that has courted the support of other lab technicians in the Region and beyond.

At the Manhyia Government Hospital, for instance, patients were left stranded in the early hours of Thursday as personnel at the laboratory were not available to attend to them.

Some of them had no option other than to join long queues at the private medical laboratory facilities.

Peter Boakye, one of the staff members at one of the private medical laboratories told Citi News how their facility is cashing in following the industrial action.

The strike has benefitted the private labs. We are getting more cases now, so we are benefitting from the strike more than the public labs. When the public labs are working, the number of cases we get is often limited. But due to the strike, our cases are going up despite the pressure, he said.

Some stranded patients who spoke to Citi News appealed to the government to work towards resolving the concerns of the laboratory scientists.

I was asked to seek the services of the lab scientists, but they are not working. I am worried because I am very sick.

The public labs are on strike, so we are being directed to the private labs. We used to pay less for malaria tests, but the private labs are charging more. The government must address the concerns of the striking workers, another said.

The lab scientists at KATH had been on a one-week sit-down strike before the declaration of the indefinite strike on Thursday over the posting of two clinical haematologists to the laboratory unit at the health facility.

They have vowed to call off the strike only if the two are withdrawn from the hospital's laboratory unit.

The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has warned that it will be forced to react if either the government or the management of KATH heeds the demands of the lab scientists.

The Ministry of Health has appealed to the lab scientists to call off the strike.

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The Health Committee of Parliament has asked aggrieved medical laboratory scientists to call off their strike and petition it to look into their issues.

According to the Chairman of the Committee, Dr. Ayew Afriyie, human lives must not be sacrificed on the altar of outstanding issues that can be addressed.

Laboratory scientists at KATH have been on a sit-down strike in the last week, kicking against a decision by the Hospitals management to reassign two haematologists to the lab unit.

Addressing the media in Parliament on Thursday, Dr. Ayew Afriyie said the health committee is ready to look into the grievances of the striking workers.

Dr. Ayew said the committee has worked with the group on other issues in the past, and is ready to work on their current demands.

He, however, expressed the disappointment of the committee members that the lab scientists did not seek an audience with them before embarking on the strike.

We have not been petitioned on the matter, but as an issue of public concern, we would want to speak on it. We represent our constituents, and the harsh effects of the decision of the total strike by the laboratory scientists eventually will be borne by our constituents. It is in this regard that we see the need to hold a common position to speak on this issue at the moment.

We have worked very much with various stakeholders in line with our standing orders before, and we are able to take petitions and work to satisfy the public interest. We have worked with the laboratory scientists just last year before the new Teaching Hospitals Amendment Act was passed. When they felt their views were not taken, and they petitioned us, we listened to them and felt the need for them to be represented onboard.

He further added the issue is important to them, and for that matter asked the lab scientists to return to work and petition them to probe the issues.

 So we are disappointed that on a major issue of this nature, they failed to inform us about it to discuss it, and then they went ahead to proceed on a strike without involving us, we are worried. It is because of this that we are asking them jointly that we will need them to come and meet with the select committee on health, we've been there for them before, and we can be there for them again. We are ready to listen to them and provide them with hope on the matter.

This strike is about an issue that is not on their conditions of service, and that is normally the main reason for strikes. This is an issue we consider important, however, it should not affect the lives of our constituents, and we can have a common ground on it. We are ready to engage them and bring all the various stakeholders. So we are by this note asking for their petition to sit on it with all the stakeholders to come to a middle point, and we want to say that they would have to go back to work.

The members of the Ashanti Regional chapter of the Medical Laboratory Scientists Association, have declared an indefinite strike starting Thursday, 27th May 2021, in support of their colleagues at KATH, who have also started a full-blown strike after an initial one-week sit-down strike.

They have vowed to call off the strike only if the two are withdrawn from the hospital's laboratory unit.

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Okyehene Osagyefo Amotia Ofori Payin has urged Government to suspend mining activities across for a period of one year.

According to him, the suspension will pave way for a review of the legal regime governing the mining sector.

He made the call on Thursday, May 27, 2021, when the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor called on him at his palace in Kyebi. The courtesy call formed part of the Minister's two-day visit to the Eastern Region.

The Okyehene further called for the decoupling of the Minerals Commission from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources for the Commission to have the free hand to operate.

He said it was important for government to adequately resource the Minerals Commission in order to effectively carry out its mandate.

Touching on remuneration for mine workers, he said the disparity between the Ghanaian miner worker and others in other jurisdictions is too wide and must be looked at.

On his part, the Minister, Mr Jinapor noted that all the issues and concerns raised by the Okyehene will be tabled for further deliberations.
The Chairman of the Northern Development Forum (NDF), Major (Rtd) Albert Don Chebe, has said the Pwalugu multi-purpose dam project will drive positive change in northern Ghana.

He said the importance of the project cannot be over-emphasised, therefore, the government must leave no stone unturned in completing the project.

Major Don Chebe was speaking during a courtesy call on the Northern Regional Minister, Mr. Alhassan Shani Shaibu, at the Northern Regional Coordinating Council in Tamale.

The NDF Chairman is on a one-week working visit to the regional capitals of the five Northern regions.

He urged the government to source external funding to ensure the early completion of the project.

He added that the NDF will support the Akufo-Addo-led government in its developmental plans for the north, to ensure that the people living in the area get their fair share of national development.

The NDF Chairman also bemoaned the performance of schools in recent times, indicating that the [pass rate] in our schools is appalling and the trend must change. We must produce a high pass rate in our schools in our quest to catch up with the rest of the country.

He abhorred the arbitrary increases in the prices of building materials in the North, especially cement and iron rods.

We have to look at the prices of building materials carefully. How can we pay GHS50 and GHS53 for cement in certain parts of the north? It makes infrastructure development difficult. This debate has to come to the front burner, he said.

Major Don Chebe congratulated Mr. Shani Alhassan Shaibu on his appointment, urging him to work for the improvement of the living standarda of the people.

He described the Regional Minister as a gentleman who is passionate about the development of the Northern Region.

Mr. Shani Alhassan Shaibu, the Northern Regional Minister, commended the NDF for its strong advocacy role over the past years.

He assured the Forum of the governments commitment to equal distribution of development projects to all parts of the country.

Mr. Shaibu described President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as a listening father and a President who will not ignore the concerns of the NDF, if tabled well.

He also thanked the NDF for their congratulatory message and the confidence reposed in him, assuring that he will support the President to push the Northern Development Agenda to its desired level.

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Education Minister, Dr. Yaw Adutwum, says he is on a mission to make engineers out of about one hundred youth in his constituency, Bosomtwe, in the next few years.

Speaking at the launch of Amplified, a social marketing platform aimed at promoting ingenuity in the country in Accra, Dr. Yaw Adutwum stated that he wants to be able to raise 100 engineers from his constituency in the next five to six years.

I have an agenda to actually produce 100 engineers within the next five to six years in Bosomtwe. There are already 30 beneficiaries, and its exciting when they come to visit me, but I am going to do more. This year I am doing 30 engineers and looking at 20 medical science students I can find in my constituency.

The Education Minister debunked assertions that politicians are only interested in their selfish gains, to the detriment of the ordinary Ghanaian, stating that the success of the people in a constituency is what proves the worth of a Member of Parliament.

He assured that the NPP government is particularly committed to seeing the youth advance and reach their full potential, and will continue to invest in their development as the future of the country.

I want to transform Bosomtwe, I dont want it to be as if we dont care. Those of us in politics care about the views, we want to make sure you realize your full potential. In fact, that is the mark of our success. What is the mark of a Member of Parliament if the people in his constituency are not succeeding? This government has the youth at heart, we want to see the transformation of this country through the development of the human capital of the youth.

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Member of Parliament for Fanteakwa South, Hon. Kofi Okyere-Agyekum says social media activist, Twene Jonas has a mental problem for his incessant insults and attacks on Ghanaian leaders.

According to him, such actions does not augur well for the image of the countrys budding democracy.

I dont think that Twene Jonas' is normal, I think he is suffering from a mental problem so he should go for a checkup, Hon. Kofi Okyere-Agyekum exclusively told Kwaku Dawuroon Anopa Nkomo on Accra-based Kingdom FM 107.7

He continued, We need to turn the face of our politics into developmental issues. We need to turn it away from insults, filthy language, and unproductive and unhelpful things. We need to redefine politics in the country. Things must change and the time is now.

Fast forward, Twene Jonas jabbed Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II after a speech where he exposed government officials who asked him to stick to the script during a Regional Consultative Dialogue on Small-Scale Mining in the Ashanti Region.

Otumfuo, in his speech, asked chiefs who are into galamsey to refrain from the menace.

According to the 'Glass Nkoaa' activist, Otumfuo has failed Ghanaians because he failed to mention those involved in galamsey in his region.

Tweneboah Jonas, popularly known as Twene Jonas, after getting the opportunity to travel to the United States, started social media recording videos of himself about daily life compared to his homeland, Ghana.

He has since talked about topical issues where he lambasts leaders in Ghana for failing the youth because the system is working where he is compared to Ghana.
Laboratory and Medical Scientist in government health facilities across the country have begun a nationwide strike to press home their demand for the dismissal of two medical doctors appointed to the Laboratory Unit of the OKomfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi.

Mr Abu Abudu Rahaman, President of the Ghana Association of Medical and Laboratory Scientist (GAMLS) , said the action is to support the industrial action by its members at the KATH which begun yesterday.

He said the Ministry of Health and the Management at the KATH had not taken any step to address their concerns since they began their threats to embark on an industrial action.

We are not going back to work until the issue is sorted out, the president told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview.

He said the MOH had requested them to submit a memorandum detailing their concerns and grievances which would be submitted by close of today.

Mr Rahaman said the Association would not relent saying, Medical Doctors have their interest, they decided to read medicine to save mankind and we also decided to read laboratory science to save mankind, they should be in their line.

He said speculations that Laboratory Scientists did not want other health professionals to work in the laboratory was not true.

We allow other health professionals in the lab depending on what they are coming to the lab to do, just like we all go to the ward but we don't take up the role of the nurse, and all we are saying is that they can come to the lab, but they cannot come and take up our roles, he said.

Mr Rahaman said any doctor who was interested in being a laboratory scientist should resign as a medical doctor and come on board officially as a laboratory scientist.

He apologized to the public for any inconvenience caused and appealed to Ghanaians for support.

The Association in an ealier Facebook post alleged that in the working environment, most members of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) exhibited gross disrespect towards them and they had expressed concern it but no action had been taken.

GAMLS said members of GMA sometimes ignored their professional advice even at the expense of patients' care just because "their ego comes first in all things."

They engage private labs even when same tests can be done in-house due to their commission based relations with former, GLAMS alleged.

In the early hours of Thursday May 27 Checks by the Ghana News Agency indicated that Laboratory Scientists at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Ashaiman Polyclinic, CLOSSAC Clinic have laid down their tools.

Efforts by the Ghana News Agency to get the GMA to respond to the allegations have however proved futile.

Laboratory scientists are health professionals in charge of diagnostics and are equipped with the requisite skill to investigate health issues.

---GNA
Woodworkers at the Sokoban Wood Village have been warned to desist from the haphazard dumping of waste products from the lumber used in their work.

Mr. Isaac Bassanyin, Kumasi Metropolitan Environmental Health and Sanitation Director, advised that by-products such as sawdust should not be thrown into the drainage system and other unauthorized places.

The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) would deal ruthlessly with any woodworker caught throwing sawdust into the drains, because such unhealthy practices posed serious environmental challenges, he cautioned.

Mr. Bassanyin, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), on the sidelines of a clean-up exercise at the wood enclave at Sokoban, said the woodworkers were expected to adhere to the environmental-sanitation bye-laws pertaining to their work.

The exercise, organized under the supervision of the KMA, was to ensure that workers at the enclave operated in a clean and sound environment to keep the place in good condition at all times.

The Environmental Health and Sanitation Director observed that the woodworkers and allied workers at the Village, such as food sellers, should not engage in practices that had the tendency to cause flooding and communicable diseases.

He advised the workers to always wear their protective gears while working, because the continuous inhaling of the sawdust could have adverse effects on their health.

Mr. James Prempeh, Convener for the Environmental-Sanitation sub-Committee, KMA, assured that the Assembly was committed to ensuring proper maintenance of the Village.

He warned the workers that the Assembly would not hesitate to apply the law in dealing with those who used the road as storage grounds for their lumbers since that practice tends to create confusion at the Village.

Those engaged in that practice have been given up to June 1, 2021, to clear the nuisance, he stated.

Mr Abubakar Halifa, Coordinator at the Sokoban Wood Village, appealed to the government to fix the main road leading to the enclave to enhance their activities.

He also appealed to the KMA to beef up the security system at the Village for the safety of the woodworkers.

---GNA
Members of the Amansie-West Small-Scale Miners Association, have appealed to Government to strive to protect miners operating legally in the country.

Mr. Daniel Kwaku Mensah, President of the Association, said the attack on licensed small-scale miners by the military deployed to halt illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) was disturbing.

We are ready to help the Government fight this noble cause.

But, it is also important that innocent people, especially those doing legal business are not harassed unnecessarily, he told a press conference in Kumasi.

Mr Mensah described unfortunate instances where licensed small-scale miners have had their equipment being seized and burnt by the military despite providing ample proof of the legality of their operations.

There is evidence to show that some members of the Association have not crossed the red line, including mining in forest reserves and on water bodies, yet they are being targeted, he lamented.

This development, according to him, was a breach of the measures agreed on during the recent national dialogue on mining.

The Association President estimated that more than 20 excavators and several pieces of mining equipment belonging to some of their members had been burnt at their concessional sites within the Amansie-West District of the Ashanti Region.

We are hoping that the Government would look critically at these worrying developments and expedite action to stem further damages to those licensed to do legal business, Mr. Mensah appealed.

The Government, the Association said, should come clear on the mining red zones, and compel the military personnel deployed to work strictly within their terms of reference.

According to the Association, the Government needed to liaise with the Minerals Commission to publish the names of licensed small-scale miners across the country and share them with the deployed military personnel to prevent the latter from harassing miners operating legally.

Mr Mensah said the Association would have no choice but to seek legal redress if the abuses continued.

---GNA
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The Minister of Energy Hon Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has been honoured with a Doctorate Degree for spearheading the successful implementation of the Free Senior High School (FSHS) social intervention programme.

The University of Education, Winneba, conferred the enviable award on Napo, as he is affectionately called, for the leadership that he exhibited as Education Minister, leading to the successful introduction of the policy.

In a citation that preceded the presentation of the award which was held at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), on Wednesday, May 26, 2021, Napo was described by the university as a bold, outstanding, intelligent and a visionary leader, who worked to positively change the education sector.

According to the university, the Free SHS policy had not been practiced in the country before, but Napo through hard work and commitment to duty, in 2017 successfully implemented the laudable policy in the country.

Napo was also praised for bringing total reforms in the area of Curriculum Review, Teacher Education, Licensure Programme, Capitation Grant, Teacher Pathways and GALOP, during his tenure as Education Minister.

The citation also highlighted other reforms Napo brought to the sector such as Teacher Promotion, Teacher Selection, Retention and Incentives and Technical, Vocational, Education and Training (TVET).

President Akufo-Addo in a speech read on his behalf by the Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Osei Opare, described Napo as an illustrious son of mother Ghana, who has over the years played significant roles to help bring the country to its present enviable status.

I have known and worked with an outstanding son of our country for some time now and deserve the award, he added.

According to the President, Napo has played pivotal roles, which by far ensured the success story of his government.

Rev. Fr. Prof. Anthony Afful-Broni, Vice Chancellor of the university, said Napo has diligently served the country so the honorary doctorate degree was to let him know the country appreciates his splendid works.

Chairman of the University Council, Prof. Obeng Mireku, lauded Napo for his exemplary leadership, professionalism, patience and commitment to duty, which has led to the Free SHS programme to boost education.

Napo in his acceptance speech said he was humbled for being honoured by such a top university and said the honour should rather go to President Akufo-Addo, for giving him the chance to serve in his government.

Top chiefs from Asanteman including Oheneba Owusu Afriyie VI, Otumfuos Apagyahene, Baffuor Agyei Fosu Twitwiakwa II and Nana Agyekum Kusi II, Oyokohene of Kumasi, were there to support Napo, who is their son.

Also present at the ceremony to support the Energy Minister to help make the programme memorable included the Anantahene, Barimma Sei Kwadwo II, Mamensinhene and Baffuor Yaw Boateng, Dominasehene and Ing. Nana Poku Agyeman, Kumasi Roads Director.
A former Member of Parliament (MP) for Manhyia North Constituency of the Ashanti Region Collins Owusu Amankwah has indicated that if he were given the chance as the political head of the Kumasi metropolis, his aim was to ensure massive development.

According to him, if he is given the nod to be Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) CEO, he will serve in the interest of Ghanaians.

Im ready to serve in the interest and cater for the well-being of the over 2.5 million residents, period,' he said, ' I will listen to concerns of constituents, including chiefs, queen mothers, assembly members and other opinion leaders and stakeholders of the Kumasi Sub-Metro, Collins Owusu Amankwah exclusively told Reynold Agyemang on Pae Mu Ka on Accra-based Kingdom FM 107.7

He noted that Kumasi was lagging behind in terms of development, when compared to Accra where development is noticed on daily basis, and stressed the need to pool resources and make strenuous efforts and sacrifices to reverse the situation.

Collins Owusu Amankwah noted that most buildings in the city had no building permits and indicated the resolve of the Assembly to collect all outstanding property rates under a vigorous revenue mobilization exercise, with penalties for the intended rapid development of Kumasi.

Six people have filed for the position of KMA Chief Executive. The candidates include the incumbent mayor, Director of Urban roads Nana Atta Poku Agyemang, Samuel Pyne, Ashanti regional Secretary of NPP, Kennedy Kankam former Nhyeaso MP, Randy Collins Owusu Amankwa, former MP Manhyia North, Kwabena Mensah and outspoken for Kusi Boafo, former director of public sector reforms.

Others also believe the son of Nana Okumkom Akwasi Agyemang will do a better job.
Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa says the cost of private jet rental that President Akufo-Addo used for his recent working visit to France and Johannesburg is estimated at 345,000 equivalent to GHS2,828,432.80.

According to him, per information gathered from aviation experts, it would have cost Ghana less than 15% of this 2.8million Ghana Cedis had President Akufo-Addo opted for Ghanas available presidential jet which is in pristine condition.

In a Facebook post on 27th May, 2021, the ranking member on the Foreign Affairs Committee of Parliament noted that the country owns a presidential aircraft in perfect working condition which was ordered by President Kufuor.

He added that President Mills and President Mahama used it and yet "President Akufo-Addo chooses to charter a top-of-the-range luxury aircraft offered by Acropolis Aviation.

The lawmaker indicated that The Airbus ACJ320neo owned by Acropolis Aviation based in Farnborough, UK and registered as G-KELT is the most luxurious and the most expensive in the Acropolis fleet. The manufacturers describe it as the most outstanding ambassador for Airbus Corporate Jets.

The aircraft in issue is less than two years old and had only returned from Switzerland where it received the highest luxurious spruce up ever known in the aviation world just before President Akufo-Addo chose that particular luxurious monster. It costs the Ghanaian taxpayer approximately 15,000 an hour when President Akufo-Addo rents it.

Lets further analyse President Akufo-Addos latest trip to Europe: per Flightradar24, the G-KELT aircraft left Accra with the President to Paris on the 16th of May  a 6 and half hour duration. Airlifted the President from Paris to Johannesburg for 11 hours on the 23rd of May. Then Johannesburg to Accra on the 25th of May was a five and half hour flight. This gives us an accumulated flight travel of 23 hours; so at 15,000 an hour, it thus cost us a colossal 345,000. At the current exchange, that is a staggering GHS2,828,432.80.

I have therefore filed an urgent question in Parliament to compel the Akufo-Addo administration to be accountable to the Ghanaian people on this matter and ultimately to prick their conscience to end this obscene profligacy at this time of considerable economic hardships, he added.

Read the full Facebook post below:

President Akufo-Addo has been a leading voice for debt forgiveness in the international arena and back home has been imposing additional regressive taxes with the justification that the economy isnt in a good place.

Sadly, he consistently fails to lead by example in a period of austerity where his government is appealing to struggling public sector workers to lower wage increase expectations.

It is an outrage and a blatant betrayal for Ghana to own a presidential aircraft in perfect working condition which was ordered by President Kufuor, used by President Mills and President Mahama; and yet President Akufo-Addo chooses to charter a top-of-the-range luxury aircraft offered by Acropolis Aviation.

The Airbus ACJ320neo owned by Acropolis Aviation based in Farnborough, UK and registered as G-KELT is the most luxurious and the most expensive in the Acropolis fleet. The manufacturers describe it as the most outstanding ambassador for Airbus Corporate Jets. It costs the Ghanaian taxpayer approximately 15,000 an hour when President Akufo-Addo rents it.

The aircraft in issue is less than two years old and had only returned from Switzerland where it received the highest luxurious spruce up ever known in the aviation world just before President Akufo-Addo chose that particular luxurious monster. The jet can take up to 150 people in ordinary circumstances, however, it has been configured to accommodate only 17 royal passengers. The spectacularly opulent aircraft comes equipped with a lavish master bedroom, an imposing en-suite bathroom, monarchial dining facilities and round the clock IT connectivity.

President Akufo-Addo undoubtedly has the greatest taste any Ghanaian President has ever had but the question is, should that insatiable appetite for his creature comforts be at the expense of the suffering masses?

Lets further analyse President Akufo-Addos latest trip to Europe: per Flightradar24, the G-KELT aircraft left Accra with the President to Paris on the 16th of May  a 6 and half hour duration. Airlifted the President from Paris to Johannesburg for 11 hours on the 23rd of May. Then Johannesburg to Accra on the 25th of May was a five and half hour flight. This gives us an accumulated flight travel of 23 hours; so at 15,000 an hour, it thus cost us a colossal 345,000. At current exchange, that is a staggering GHS2,828,432.80.

Aviation experts inform me it would have cost Ghana less than 15% of this 2.8million Ghana Cedis had President Akufo-Addo opted for Ghanas available presidential jet which is in pristine condition. Alternatively, far more affordable travel arrangements are available which could have aligned with the Presidents rhetoric for sympathy from the west for African nations.

The irony is that President Akufo-Addo engaged in this fantastic extravagance on his way to France to go beg President Emmanuel Macron for debt cancellation. Needless to add that President Macron does not travel in such splendour.

Let us imagine what GHS2.8million could do for our country, particularly considering the mess in multiple sectors which has led to legitimate #FixTheCountryNow agitations by the youth.

I have therefore filed an urgent question in Parliament to compel the Akufo-Addo administration to be accountable to the Ghanaian people on this matter and ultimately to prick their conscience to end this obscene profligacy at this time of considerable economic hardships.

The African people deserve better from their leaders.
Two persons accused of stealing some pints of blood at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra have been put before the Adjabeng District Court.

Kwabena Adu Twum and Wilfred Tortsie, charged with conspiracy and stealing, pleaded not guilty.

The Court presided over by Nana Adwoa Serwa Adonteng admitted the accused persons bail in the sum of GH 20,000 with two sureties each after their lawyer had argued out for bail.

The Court further ordered the accused persons to report every Wednesday to the Police.

The matter has been adjourned to July 12.

Meanwhile, the Police have informed the court that efforts were underway to pursue additional leads on the matter.

On May 22, this year, two persons were arrested by security officials at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital for stealing blood.

The suspects were picked at the surgical ward while they attempted to steal several pints of blood.

A statement issued by the Public Relations Unit of the hospital, said on Saturday, May 22, this year.

The activities of the group came to the attention of the security on a tip-off. They then mounted surveillance that eventually led to the arrest of the suspects this morning around 2 am, the statement explained.

The hospital said the arrest was done through a special operation.

It urged staff of the facility to be vigilant about their environment while on duty.

---GNA
A Jasikan Circuit Court has sentenced Aglidza Obed @Eli, aged 31, to 12 years imprisonment in hard labour.

The convict was arrested on May 13, 2021 by the New Ayoma Police for attacking and robbing a mobile money vendor at Likpe Kukurantumi.

Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) John Nchor, Acting Oti Regional Public Affairs Officer, Ghana Police Service, in a news release copied to the Ghana News Agency, said the evidence presented to the Court included a handbag recovered from the convict which contained a specified amount of money.

He said a Techno smart phone which belonged to the complainant was also seized from the convict.

ASP Nchor urged the public, especially Mobile Money Vendors to be security conscious and support the Police with valuable information about suspicious characters in their communities.

"The Command assures informants of absolute confidentiality."

---GNA
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) on Thursday, May 27, 2021, launched a new project in Accra aimed at strengthening Ghanas border security as well as the regional stability in the Gulf of Guinea.

In years gone by, border management agencies (BMAS) in West Africa, including those in Benin, Cote d'Ivoire, Ghana, and Togo, have faced and continue to face different challenges relating to border management, including the lack of adequate infrastructure and equipment at existing border posts, the porosity of borders, and the activities of trafficking and smuggling networks.

These, coupled with the emergent threat of violent extremism spreading from the Sahel and ongoing, public health emergencies of international concern, have raised concerns about the long-term border security and regional stability in the Gulf of Guinea.

It is in line with this that the IOM after several discussions with various stakeholders has come up with the latest project.

The project title "Strengthening Border Security and Border Community Resilience in the Gulf of Guinea" will be executed fully by the IOM for a period of one year with funding support from the German Federal Foreign Office.

The project will support the governments of Ghana, Benin, Cote d'Ivoire, and Togo to improve regional border stability in the Gulf of Guinea by strengthening border management capacities and community resilience at selected border posts in the north of the target countries.

Speaking at the launch of the project at the Tang Palace today, IOM Chief of Mission in Ghana, Abibatou Wane stressed that her Organisation is looking at using the project to tackle the preventive aspect of future challenges that can disrupt security in the Gulf of Guinea.

This initiative that we have launched this morning is indeed timely if I may say because of what is happening in the Sahel Region with regard to the regional context and dynamics with the deterioration of the security situation in the countries in the Sahel Region and this also is putting at risk the stability in the countries like Ghana and the other countries in the Gulf of Guinea, she told journalists.

IOM Chief of Mission in Ghana, Abibatou Wane

Abibatou Wane continued, That is why IOM who has been supporting the governments in strengthening border security is now using this regional approach to look at mostly the preventive aspect.

The IOM Chief of Mission in emphasizing the importance of the project called for the full support and involvements of governments that have been selected.

Representing the German Embassy, Dirk Kattlun who is the Police Liaison Officer from the German Federal Police noted that the German Foreign Policy is full of enthusiasm to be involved in the project because it meets their target of promoting peace and security in the world.

According to him, there is no doubt the project in the hands of the IOM will be a success.

I am absolutely convinced that the IOM has got the expertise, the necessary experts, and the network in the concerned region to achieve the best results while conducting this challenging project, said Dirk Kattlun.

Dirk Kattlun from the German Embassy speaking at the launch

With the project set for a period of one year, the Police Liaison Officer from the German Federal Police wants it to go beyond that timeline to ensure continuous border security not only in Ghana but in the Gulf of Guinea.

Dirk Kattlun insists that strengthening border security and community resilience in the Gulf of Guinea is hopefully the next step to concentrate on international support with the capabilities of the border security agencies in Ghana, Ivory Coast, Togo, and Benin

Tasked with launching the important project today, Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), Mr. Kwame Asuah Takyi remarked that now more than ever there is the need for cooperation among countries to enhance border security.

Assuring that his outfit will open up to share information with Benin, Cote d'Ivoire, and Togo in the IOM project, he called for all hands on deck for a collective approach to tackle security challenges at the borders.

We now live in one global village. Knowing the trend in transnational crime and international crime, one country cannot manage that type of difficulty or security challenges alone. So its better we come together to assist other countries, Mr. Kwame Asuah Takyi said.

Comptroller-General of the GIS Mr. Kwame Asuah Takyi speaking at the launch

Meanwhile, the Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service has assured citizens that they continue to stay focused and will not let their guard down as far as safeguarding the security of the countrys borders is concerned.

He said that since the closure of Ghanas borders in March 2020, over 31,000 people that made efforts to illegally enter the country were intercepted and stopped.

Response/Intervention for the IOM project:

The interventions will include the renovation/ construction of five border posts (two in Ghana and one each in Benin, Cote d'Ivoire, and Togo), including the installation of renewable energy sources, the provision of patrol equipment, and the construction of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities.

The Migration Information and Data Analysis System (MIDAS), an IOM-developed border management information system (BMIS), will be installed in Benin, Ghana, and Togo to support the digital processing of traveler information, including to analyses traveler data, to verify traveler identity, and to be able to cross-reference suspected travelers against watch lists.

The intervention will also work on deepening the engagement between BMAS and border communities in all countries through conducting security perception surveys in border communities in order to develop a shared understanding between BMAS, community authorities, and community members on security and development challenges in the border communities and supporting them to jointly recommend solutions to surmount these challenges.

Another priority intervention will be the reinforcement of the capacities of BMAS on standard operating procedures (SOPS) for responding to public health emergencies of international concern.
In a major victory for citizens, the legal department of the central information commission (CIC) has referred to an official circular dating back to 2016, to communicate that the CIC in appeals arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic, should accord precedence, for hearing.

Quoting its own circular dated 22 July 2016, the CIC in its 6 May 2021 circular states, The circular takes care of exigencies arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic. The earlier 22 July 2016 circular specifies that The commission in a particular matter may decide to accord precedence depending on the facts and circumstance of the cases.

This applies to all state information commissions (SICs) too.

Another important aspect of the CIC circular of 6th May is that, Appellants or complainants desirous of early hearings can approach the concerned registry of this Commission in this regard.

So, RTI applicants, who have filed their second appeals related to COVID-19, can jump the queue and directly approach the registrar of the CIC for an early hearing.

Journalist and transparency activist, Saurav Das, whose petition in the Madras High Court (HC), to prioritise second appeals related to COVID-19 triggered this citizen-friendly motion, tweeted, In a major victory for transparency, the Central Information Commission has started hearing pandemic-related RTI cases on priority. This, after Madras HC's recommendation, on my petition. Lots of crucial info on COVID was being denied by the Centre. Not anymore!

#BREAKING



In a major victory for transparency, the CIC has started hearing pandemic-related RTI cases on priority. This, after Madras HC's recommendation, on my petition.



Lots of crucial info on COVID being denied by Centre. Not anymore!



ProcedureY



1/3 pic.twitter.com/vMHcTwNqOb  Saurav Das (@OfficialSauravD) May 24, 2021

Read: Madras HC Wants Special COVID-19 Bench at CIC That Would Work for 3 to 4 Hours Daily ) It may be recalled that Moneylife had published on 5th May a story regarding the order by the he Madras HC on petition filed by Mr Das. (

The Madras HC ordered the CIC to set up a special bench for hearing COVID-19-related matters, to work daily for at least three to four days on them and dispose them as per the timeline, particularly for RTI applications seeking information under Section 7 (1) of the RTI Act. The timeline given for this is within 48 hours.

It also ordered the CIC as well as all state information commissions (SICs) to explore "taking up matters on the virtual mode upon indicating an e-filing system.

The order was given on 28 April 2021.

In fact, Mr Das had filed RTI applications related to COVID-19 under Section 7 (1) of the RTI Act pointing out that information regarding the pandemic must be time bound. However, the CIC was not only failing to prioritise such applications but at the first appellate authority (FAA) level too, the first appeals had been languishing for 45 days.

Mr Das had rightly argued in the court that, Time is of the essence under the RTI Act, and even more so during the current COVID-19 pandemic, as any delay in procuring the information sought could have a detrimental impact on public health and the lives of people. It is reiterated that such cases related to the COVID-19 pandemic fall under the right to life and liberty and it is imperative that they are dealt with expeditiously.

This circular is of utmost importance as an applicant may seek information on the availability of beds, testing parameters, health facilities, availability of emergency medical services, the demarcation of containment zones, vaccination distribution or even clarifications relating to lock-down guidelines all such information concerns life or liberty (which comes under Section 7 (1) of the RTI Act and mandates providing information within 48 hours.

Read: Information on COVID-19 Is by Far the Largest Public Interest Issue but Govt Routinely Stonewalls RTI Queries ) Moneylife had also earlier highlighted how various RTI activists and users across the country had filed RTI applications related to COVID-19 but their requisitions were mechanically stonewalled by the CPIO of the health ministry under the cover of Section 8 (1)(a) of the RTI Act. (

The CPIO has been giving the same reply stating, the information sought is exempted under Section 8(1)(a) of RTI Act, 2005 as this may prejudicially affect the strategic, scientific and economic interest of the State. As such, no information can be provided.

Says Mr Das, The CIC is indeed taking the circular very seriously and I know of cases which have been prioritised.

More power to activists like him and, hopefully, it would lead to some amount of transparency regarding this pandemic which has shown the government in poor light.
Compared to financial crises, a health crisis can be more pervasive, persistent and debilitating in its impact on the real economy, as per the RBI (Reserve Bank of India) annual report for 2020-21.

"Letting down the guard is perilous; it is best to prepare for future waves," the report said.

It added that private investment is the missing piece in the story of the Indian economy in 2020-21; reviving it awaits an environment in which 'animal spirits' are rekindled and entrepreneurial energies are released so that backward and forward linkages and multipliers prepare the ground for a durable investment-driven recovery.

The report said 2020-21 will go down in history as the year of the COVID-19 pandemic break in the life and ethos of humanity.

"It altered economic activity, finance and, more generally, life and livelihoods in a drastic and deep way that may take several years to heal. The pandemic also exposed the fragility of health care infrastructure and the inadequacy of health spending over the years. The year 2020 will also be notable for unprecedented policy responses which, although not coordinated, turned out to be synchronised globally," the report said.

The report said the extent of misery and the loss of human lives has left indelible fissures and several lessons for the future: eternal vigilance in terms of pandemic preparednessit is not going away for some time; priority for upscaling health spending and health infrastructure; faster rollout of vaccines and vaccination while building up stocks; investing in research and development as vaccine developers/producers are challenged by new variants of the virus; prudent and preemptive pandemic protocols, including local lockdowns, restrictions on mobility and other COVID-appropriate behaviour.

Besides the toll on life and living, the year 2020 was ravaged by output and employment losses unprecedented in history, globally and in India. The pandemic also turned out to be highly inequitableit is estimated that around 95 million additional people around the world have been forced into extreme poverty during the year, with 80 million more undernourished, mostly in low-income countries.

The report said just a year ago when the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic and India imposed a strict lock-down in March, a deep despondency and risk psychosis became pervasive.

Since then, lives have been lost, surviving life has been disrupted and lifestyles have been fundamentally altered. In India, some areas of activity, especially contact intensive ones, have been deeply scarred while others such as agriculture and allied activities, information technology, highway infrastructure, tractor sales, railway freight, electricity demand and domestic trade have shown a rare resilience, it added.

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
Five months before DarkSide attacked the Colonial pipeline, two researchers discovered a way to rescue its ransomware victims. Then an antivirus companys announcement alerted the hackers.

On 11 January 2021, antivirus company Bitdefender said it was happy to announce a startling breakthrough. It had found a flaw in the ransomware that a gang known as DarkSide was using to freeze computer networks of dozens of businesses in the U.S. and Europe. Companies facing demands from DarkSide could download a free tool from Bitdefender and avoid paying millions of dollars in ransom to the hackers.

But Bitdefender wasnt the first to identify this flaw. Two other researchers, Fabian Wosar and Michael Gillespie , had noticed it the month before and had begun discreetly looking for victims to help. By publicizing its tool, Bitdefender alerted DarkSide to the lapse, which involved reusing the same digital keys to lock and unlock multiple victims. The next day, DarkSide declared that it had repaired the problem, and that new companies have nothing to hope for.

Special thanks to BitDefender for helping fix our issues, DarkSide said. This will make us even better.

DarkSide soon proved it wasnt bluffing, unleashing a string of attacks. This month, it paralyzed the Colonial Pipeline Co., prompting a shutdown of the 5,500 mile pipeline that carries 45% of the fuel used on the East Coast, quickly followed by a rise in gasoline prices, panic buying of gas across the Southeast and closures of thousands of gas stations. Absent Bitdefenders announcement, its possible that the crisis might have been contained, and that Colonial might have quietly restored its system with Wosar and Gillespies decryption tool.

Instead, Colonial paid DarkSide $4.4 million in Bitcoin for a key to unlock its files. I will admit that I wasnt comfortable seeing money go out the door to people like this, CEO Joseph Blount told The Wall Street Journal.

The missed opportunity was part of a broader pattern of botched or half-hearted responses to the growing menace of ransomware, which during the pandemic has disabled businesses, schools, hospitals and government agencies across the country. The incident also shows how antivirus companies eager to make a name for themselves sometimes violate one of the cardinal rules of the cat-and-mouse game of cyber-warfare: Dont let your opponents know what youve figured out.

During World War II, when the British secret service learned from decrypted communications that the Gestapo was planning to abduct and murder a valuable double agent, Johnny Jebsen, his handler wasnt allowed to warn him for fear of cluing in the enemy that its cipher had been cracked.

Today, ransomware hunters like Wosar and Gillespie try to prolong the attackers ignorance, even at the cost of contacting fewer victims. Sooner or later, as payments drop off, the cybercriminals realize that something has gone wrong.

Whether to tout a decryption tool is a calculated decision, said Rob McLeod, senior director of the threat response unit for cybersecurity firm eSentire. From the marketing perspective, You are singing that song from the rooftops about how you have come up with a security solution that will decrypt a victims data. And then the security researcher angle says, Dont disclose any information here. Keep the ransomware bugs that weve found that allow us to decode the data secret, so as not to notify the threat actors.

Wosar said that publicly releasing tools, as Bitdefender did, has become riskier as ransoms have soared and the gangs have grown wealthier and more technically adept. In the early days of ransomware, when hackers froze home computers for a few hundred dollars, they often couldnt determine how their code was broken unless the flaw was specifically pointed out to them.

Continue Reading  Today, the creators of ransomware have access to reverse engineers and penetration testers who are very very capable, he said. Thats how they gain entrance to these oftentimes highly secured networks in the first place. They download the decryptor, they disassemble it, they reverse engineer it and they figure out exactly why we were able to decrypt their files. And 24 hours later, the whole thing is fixed. Bitdefender should have known better.

This story was co-published with MIT Technology Review.
Women chief executives (CEOs) emphasised empathy, adaptability, accountability, and diversity more frequently than their male peers in public communications during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, shows a new analysis from S&P Global conducted in collaboration with researchers from the University of Paris.

On average, women CEOs scored higher for positive sentiment and used words related to trust more frequently than men. The study also confirms that women CEOs continue to be significantly outnumbered globally by CEOs who are men. As of 25 January 2021, only 5% of a sample of more than 8,000 CEOs from the S&P Global Broad Market Index (BMI) were women.

Women CEOs exhibited a different leadership style than men during the COVID-19 crisis, leaning toward empathy, adaptability, accountability, and diversity, based on sentiment analysis of earnings call transcripts of the leaders of nearly 5,000 companies in the S&P Global BMI from 9 March 2020 to 31 December 2020.

"Our research identified clear gender affinities for key concepts and words during the peak pandemic period across nearly 8,500 companies in 61 countries that we examined," said Daniela Brandazza, senior director and analytical manager at S&P Global Ratings and a lead author of the report.

"We concluded that women CEOs favoured a leadership and communication style that emphasised flexibility and adaptability during a crisis period, enabling their connection with employees and other stakeholders. As our research shows, women CEOs may be leading the way in this regard even if their relative numbers remain small, she added.

Gabriel Morin, associate professor of leadership development for LARGEPA, said the research focus on women as leaders and communicators and provides invaluable insights into a corporate terrain that is increasingly concerned with becoming more diverse, equitable, and sustainable.

"Quota policy is a way forward that we believe is more of a transitional means to achieve deeper change. The impact of women CEOs as role models seems to be far more inspiring," she said.

CEOs who were women exhibited a more positive communication style at the peak of the pandemic, with higher average scores for words expressing trust and anticipation. CEOs of both genders expressed negative sentiment at comparable frequency. It was observed that men CEOs have higher scores for language in the categories of surprise, anger, and sadness.

Some of the most frequent words used to describe negativity, sadness, and fear were, unsurprisingly, pandemic, crisis, and disease, obvious references to the COVID-19 pandemic. Women and men CEOs used terms expressing anger, including loss, and challenge, at about the same frequency. On the other hand, in the positive category for both genders, the study team saw terms for growth and opportunity rose. What is more, high-ranking terms for joy reflect a mood among both men and women that the situation will improve alongside progress and hope.

The study also found that women CEOs are still significantly under-represented. Women at companies in the S&P Global BMI accounted for 5% of CEOs on 25 January 2021, compared with 4.9% on 8 February 2020. Countries with a higher share of women CEOs also tend to have more gender-balanced labour force participation.

Women CEOs demonstrate a leadership style that values empathy, adaptability, accountability, and diversity

The study found that women CEOs expressed language in the categories of empathy, adaptability, accountability, and diversity, for example. Men CEOs were more focused on transaction-related words.

Women CEOs spoke more about clients, while men CEOs talked more about metrics such as earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization ( EBITDA) and profit.

Also, companies led by CEOs with more experience in their current job performed better during the crisis. Yet, younger CEOs also performed better, perhaps because they led companies with a higher degree of digitalization, which performed well during the crisis.

The report concluded that very little progress has been made on gender equity at the CEO level. Men outnumbered their women counterparts by a ratio of 19:1, though the report noted higher numbers of women CEOs in Norway (14%) and Singapore (12%). In contrast, Japan (0.8%) and Brazil (0%) had the lowest number of women in executive leadership roles. The real estate and health care sectors exhibited unusually high numbers of women at the helm, with women CEOs four times more likely to lead firms in those industries than in the energy sector.

This shows that there is still a wide gender gap in the highest corporate ranked position, in addition to the already known gender gap in corporate boards. In those countries where more gender parity is observed on corporate boards, there were deliberate policies implemented throughout the years.

The survey points out that women around the world continue facing increasing challenges, and companies will play a critical role in retaining and developing their talent and their capacity to assume leadership positions.

During the initial months of COVID-19 pandemic, the global press hailed the performance of women leaders. New Zealand, South Korea, and Germany were often mentioned as examples of nations, led by women, weathering the pandemic better than countries led by men, whose political style was perceived as fitting the stereotype of masculine leadership. Women in power, said the press stories, seemed to be more responsible, caring, and prudent, while men were more willing to improvise, minimize the perils, and make risky decisions. This is what gave rise to the idea of conducting this study,
HELENA, Mont. - According to a recent study, 18.5 percent of Montana Veterans binge drink and many are likely to feel the impacts of social isolation for years to come due to the pandemic.

But the Peer Support Program at the Montana Department of Veteran Affairs is giving our veterans struggling with substance abuse or other mental health challenges a place to seek hope.

"It's veterans who have a lived experience of recovery that have decided to come help other veterans enter recovery and maintain their recovery," Bob McCabe, the local recovery coordinator for MTVAHCS, said.

In Montana, you have to be in recovery for at least two years working on whatever challenges you face to become a certified peer support specialist.

"The peer support has a unique skill set that you just can't get out of a book," McCabe said.

Robert Zarndt is a certified peer support specialist who has been going through 40 years of recovery from substance abuse and PTSD.

"I spent many years feeling alone. I came back from Vietnam and I spent many years thinking that I was crazy and alone because no one related to me," said Zarndt.

He says he's gotten support from many different people and the VA has helped him when he didn't even know he was struggling.

Zarndt says this program can help with a feeling of comradery and belonging; going on to say those who have served have a connection.

"It's a trusting safe zone where you can share whatever is on your mind," Zarndt said.

"You don't have to tell me where you've been or what you've done, I get it. We all have that common bond. And that's the beauty of peer support, veterans serving veterans," Janie Hall, a certified peer support specialist with MTVAHCS, said.

"We're able to relate on a level where they may not be to with a clinician so to speak," Jason Bridger, a certified peer support specialist with MTVAHCS, said.

On a daily basis, Bridger is working with veterans to help them find resources, talking through things with them, and just relating to them on a level they may not feel comfortable talking to someone else with.

"If we can just reach one, to me anyway, then I've achieved what I set out to do," Bridger said.

"I'm not a mental health provider, I'm not a therapist, but I am therapeutic," Hall said.

Bridger says giving back is how he maintains his mental health after struggling with alcohol addiction.

"It was very prevalent in the military, that's just, that was the culture and it translated outside. So, you know I needed some help and it was offered. It was probably the best thing that's ever happened to me minus being able to give back to the veterans," Bridger said.

Montana is a tough state and with the hardcore mentality many in the military have, Hall says that mindset isn't effective and it actually takes more courage to ask for help.

"I get that it is frightening to step out and say 'yup, I can't do it alone.'... But I know for myself in the military, we did nothing alone. It was a team effort in everything that we did. From a to b, from basic to combat. We never did anything alone. Why would you be able to cure yourself by yourself? This is a full effort, we need a team effort in our mental health and in our physical health and it's okay to ask for help," Hall said.

"Asking for help is definitely a difficult thing to do. Because there is a lot of pride and you have to overcome that pride factor, ask for help, and I've found that by doing so it made me a lot stronger," Zarndt said.

"Recovering from a mental health issue doesn't mean you're weak, it means you're out seeking help and that makes you stronger because you're wanting to change where you're at," Bridger said.

On May 27 at 5:30 p.m., the VA is holding a mental health panel on Facebook live, you can watch the live stream by clicking here.

They encourage all veterans and family members to join and ask questions.

If you don't have access to Facebook, you can also call 1-872-701-0185 and enter 611 906 822#.

McCabe says if you don't get your question answered, you can reach out to him at his office in Ft. Harrison at 406-447-7059.
MARIETTA, Ga. (AP)  Atlanta philanthropist and businessman A.D. Pete Correll, known for leading one of Georgias biggest companies and helping to save Atlantas public hospital, has died. He was 80.

The Rev. Tony Sundermeier of First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta confirmed the death to The Associated Press. Correll died Tuesday at his home in Atlanta after a brief illness, Sundermeier said. Correll, a lifelong Presbyterian, was one of the churchs elders.

Pete Corrells impact on our state will be felt for generations to come," Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said Thursday.

Correll was one of the most visionary and influential philanthropists in the city and was instrumental in revitalizing Grady Memorial Hospital during a time when there were fears it could close because of financial woes, the church said in announcing the death.

He served on numerous non-profit boards, and he lived his faith in ways that made us all better, the church announcement said.

Correll was a Brunswick, Georgia, native who later moved to Atlanta and worked in paper mills before joining paper and materials manufacturer Georgia-Pacific in 1988, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

I had always had a very simple premise in my life that I might not be smarter than anybody else, but I can outwork anybody, he said in a 2014 talk at Kennesaw State University in Atlantas northwest suburbs.

He rose to chairman and CEO of Georgia-Pacific in 1993. He later negotiated a $21 billion sale of the company to Kansas-based Koch Industries.

Pete was a transformational leader in Georgia-Pacifics 93-year history and his impact on the company is immeasurable and still with us today," the company's current president and CEO, Christian Fischer, said in a statement.

As a civic leader and philanthropist, Correll left a lasting imprint on many Atlanta institutions. He was co-chair of a commission in 2003 that led to the renaming of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to honor the citys first Black mayor, Maynard Jackson.

Petes impact on Atlanta, Brunswick and the entire state of Georgia was monumental," Fischer said. His service to many of the state's institutions such as Grady, the University of Georgia and Emory University will benefit Georgians for many years to come, he said.

Correll is survived by his wife, Ada Lee; their daughter Elizabeth Richards and son Alston.

A celebration of life is planned for June 2 at First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta.
CAMBRIDGE, N.Y. (AP)  A New York high school is recalling copies of its yearbook because a graduating senior listed Adolf Hitler's autobiography as his favorite book within its pages.

Cambridge Junior-Senior High School stopped distributing the yearbook two days after it had started when it came to their attention that a student had cited Mein Kampf as his favorite book, the Times Union reported Wednesday.

The newspaper is not naming the student, but sent a message on Facebook to the likely profile of the student to ask if he or his parents would comment.

The book published in 1925 outlines the tenets of Nazism. Less than 10 years later, Hitler's National Socialist party won enough votes for him to be sworn in as German chancellor. Some 6 million Jewish people died under systematic persecution by the Nazis along with political opponents, queer people and people from other marginalized groups.

Cambridge Superintendent Douglas Silvernell said he was horrified and extremely disappointed.

He did not provide information about how the student's selection had not been caught as the yearbook was edited, but promised that the editing process would be improved going forward.

An Albany rabbi told the newspaper it was important to find out why the student chose to highlight the antisemitic work.

It is very disheartening, especially given the heightened sensitivity weve been experiencing with racism and antisemitism and violence during the past year, Rabbi Scott L. Shpeen said. It certainly indicates we have a lot more work to do.

Asked if the student had been disciplined, Silvernell said the school was consulting with its legal counsel.

The school is asking students to return the about 40 copies of the yearbook already distributed. In all, it cost more than $10,000 to print 145 copies. Silvernell said the school has asked the yearbook company to work with them to find a remedy.

Cambridge is located northeast of Albany, near the state's border with Vermont.
Lansdale, PA (19446)

Today

Generally cloudy. High 74F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy with some showers after midnight. Low 59F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
May 27, 2021 By The Book - What Really Happened With The Ryanair Flight In Belarus We yesterday looked at the record of Roman Protasevich, the western financed neo-nazi arrested on Sunday in Belarus. Another still open issue is how the incident developed. Protasevich was arrested after a plane he was flying on from Greece to Lithuania was diverted to Minsk due to a bomb threat. There had been an open warrant of arrest against Protasevich which was enforced as he entered the country. NEXTA, the regime change organization in Poland where Protasevich had previously worked to organize a coup in Belarus, had doxxed policemen in Belarus and thereby endangered their families. The Aviation Department of the Belorussian Ministry for Transport and Communication has published its official report of the incident. It is written in Russian and English language (scroll down for the English version). The report includes what seems to be the full transcript of the radio traffic between the plane and the air traffic control. The report and the transcript debunk a number of false claims made in the 'western' reporting on the issue. The main facts: Department of Aviation in accordance with the requirements of Standards 5.2.5 and 5.3.1 of Annex 17 to the Convention on the International Civil Aviation, the Department of Aviation informs about the fact of an act of unlawful interference in the activities of civil aviation on the territory of the Republic of Belarus. On May 23, 2021, a written message with the following content in English was sent to the e-mail of the National Airport Minsk from the e-mail address protonmail.com: We, Hamas soldiers, demand that Israel cease fire in the Gaza Strip. We demand that the European Union abandon its support for Israel in this war. We know that the participants of Delphi Economic Forum are returning home on May 23 via flight FR4978. A bomb has been planted onto this aircraft. If you dont meet our demands the bomb will explode on May 23 over Vilnius. Allahu Akbar. Taking into account the seriousness of the threat received, the information from the National Airport Minsk was forwarded to the relevant air traffic control services of Belaeronavigatsia State-Owned-Enterprise. In accordance with the requirements of the Annex 17 to the Chicago Convention and the National Program for the Protection of Civil Aviation from Acts of Unlawful Interference in the Republic of Belarus, a response actions mechanism was put into effect in connection with acts of unlawful interference in the civil aviation activity. The flight FR4978 en route Athens (Greece) - Vilnius (Lithuania), operated on a Boeing 737-800 by Ryanair. The aircraft departed from Athens airport at 07.10 UTC (10.10 Belarusian time), entered into the Republic of Belarus airspace under the control of the Minsk ACC at 09.30 UTC (12.30 Belarusian time). The entry point into the airspace of the Minsk FIR was SOMAT. Some comments on this: The report is 'by the book' as it should be. Protonmail, from where the email was received, is a encrypted web-email service hosted in Switzerland which allows more or less anonymous traffic. An alleged screenshot of the email currently gets peddled around by the Editor-in-Chief of NEXTA: Tadeusz Giczan @TadeuszGiczan - 11:59 PM  May 26, 2021 Not that anyone had any doubts but Hamas email was sent to Minsk airport 24 minutes after Belarusian air controllers warned Ryanair pilots theres a bomb onboard.

bigger Giczan is right in that the time shown in the screenshot is inconsistent with the timing of the Ryanair flight in the Belorussian airspace. That however proves nothing. Time stamps in emails are notoriously unreliable as they depend on various computer timezone settings and several other variables. Clocks, computers and phones in Switzerland are currently set to UTC(GMT)+2 hours. Clocks, computers and phones in Belarus to UTC+3. A email sent at 10:57 Geneva time would likely show up as sent at 11:57 in Minsk time. However, if the timezone of the computer/phone that is used to look at the email is set to UTC+4 the email time would be shown as 12:57. Nice trick Mr. Nexta but that screenshot is unconvincing. The content of the email is not convincing as a threat. The demand for a ceasefire in Gaza is nonsense as one was already in place since May 21. The mentioning of the Delphi Economic Forum in Greece is of interest. Roman Protasevich had taken part in it and was on his way back to Vilnius. Why was that explicitly mentioned? If Belarus used the email as a trick to catch Protasevich why mention the Delphi Forum in the threat email? The last sentence of the email is of high interest because it decided where the plan would land: "If you dont meet our demands the bomb will explode on May 23 over Vilnius." In previous incidents of bombs on civil aircraft these were either set off by a timer or by a barometer (pressure = height over ground). That the extortionist would name a specific location for the bomb explosion can only mean that the bomb would be set off by a GPS device. This explains why the pilots decided to diverted to Minsk instead of finishing the much shorter leg to Vilnius.

bigger The pilots decided to go to Minsk because the risk of a potential bomb going off over Vilnius, as announced in the email, was high. The transcript of the radio traffic shows that the pilots, not the authorities in Belarus, made that decision. Pilot: OK, I give you (unreadable) can you say again IATA code of the airport that authorities have recommended us to divert to?

ATC: RYR 1TZ Standby.

Pilot: Standby, Roger.

ATC :09:41:00: RYR 1TZ .

Pilot: Go ahead.

ATC: IATA code is MSQ.

Pilot: can you say again please?

ATC:IATA code MSQ.

Pilot: MSQ, thanks.

Pilot: 09:41:58: RYR 1TZ Again, this recommendation to divert to Minsk where did it come from? Where did it come from? Company? Did it come from departure airport authorities or arrival airport authorities?

ATC: RYR 1TZ this is our recommendations.

...

Pilot:09:47:12: RYR 1TZ we are declaring an emergency MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY RYR 1TZ. our intentions would be to divert to Minsk airport

ATC: RYR 1TZ MAYDAY, Roger. Standby for vectors.

Pilot: Standby RYR 1TZ.

Pilot: 09:48:10 RYR 1TZ request descent to 10000 feet.

ATC: RYR 1TZ , descend FL100.

Pilot: descend (unreadable) RYR 1TZ. I am convinced that the radio transcript as presented by the Belorussian air authority is complete and that nothing in it is fake. Air control radio traffic is not encrypted and lots of amateurs constantly record it. The Cockpit Voice Recorder of the Ryanair machine will also have a full copy of the talk. Reportedly the Belorussian airforce sent up fighter jet to watch over the Ryanair flight. The Ryanair pilots were not made aware of that. There is no mention of it in the radio traffic transcript. Sending up fighter jets to watch over planes under bomb or hijacking threat is however a standard operation procedure. On July 14 2020 a bomb threat was made against a Ryanair flight from Krakow to Dublin. The plane made an emergency landing in Stansted: The security scare on a Ryanair flight which sparked the RAF to scramble two fighter jets was due to a note claiming there was bomb on board the plane, airline bosses revealed last night. Just three days later another Ryanair flight came under threat: A 51-year-old British man has been arrested after a Ryanair flight from London to Oslo received a bomb threat. Danish F-16 military aircraft were scrambled to escort the plane to Gardermoen Airport - the main international airport in Norway. In a statement, police said the situation is now under control and the aircraft will now be examined by the emergency squad and bomb group. It seems to me that the Belorussian authorities did everything by the book. Like in Norway the aircraft, its cargo and the passengers were examined by an emergency bomb squad. Here is how that looked in Minsk.

bigger After the plane was declared clear by the bomb squad the authorities let the passengers board and leave to their original destination. Roman Protasevich and his Russian girlfriend, who had had a role in his regime-change efforts, were taken under arrest. At least one other passenger, who had originally planned to fly from Greece to Minsk with only a stopover in Vilnius, also went from board. Earlier speculations of KGB agents leaving the plane in Minsk have not been confirmed. The aviation department report closes with this: The Department of Aviation also wants to assure that the Belarusian aviation authorities, aviation organizations and the relevant law enforcement agencies of the state have taken and will continue to take the necessary measures and actions provided for by international and national legislation aimed at ensuring reliable protection of civil aviation from acts of unlawful interference. For further consideration of the circumstances the Department of Aviation has invited representatives of ICAO, IATA, EASA, and EU and USA Civil Aviation Authorities. Those international organizations should accept the invitation and take a deeper look at the issue. They should talk to the pilots and listen to the radio traffic as recorded by the cockpit voice recorder. I am convinced that they will find that everything happened exactly as the Belorussian authorities said. They received a bomb threat against the plane, informed the pilot and recommended to land in Minsk. The pilot weighted the circumstances and decided correctly to follow the advise. There is only one big question for which we have yet to find an answer. Who send the email that led to all this and for which purpose? One can easily construe motives for both sides. A. Belarus secret services wanted to capture Roman Protasevich no matter what and sent the email. They were willing to accept the predictable sanctions that would follow such a move. B. The regime change gang that met in Greece wanted new attention and fresh sanctions on Belarus. Someone in the team sent the email. The group was willing to accept a few years of jail time for Protasevich who might or might not have been in on this. I have no further evidence to decide if A or B is right. There is however a lot of historic evidence that 'western' supported regime-changers are extremely ruthless and willing to play with the lives and well being of other people. My gut feeling therefore tends to B. In light of the above it is quite curious (but not astonishing) that 'western' governments are now pressing their airlines to avoid Belorussian airspace. Russia, Belarus' big ally, is currently responding to that measure by prohibiting flights that avoid Belarussian from entering Russian airspace. A lot of flight schedules will have to change if this nonsense continues. Posted by b on May 27, 2021 at 15:19 UTC | Permalink Comments
May 27, 2021

The 'Lab-Leak' Theory Is Not Of Equal Value - Promoting It Furthers The China Hawks

It is a sad experience to see that several writers I like and often agree with are now propping up a Russiagate like conspiracy theory about the origin of the novel coronavirus.

Let's start with Kit Klarenberg who, in a lengthy cherry picking 'lab escape theory' essay, quotes approvingly from a Technology Review piece:

[Computer modeling] generated a startling result: the spike proteins studding SARS-CoV-2 bound more tightly to their human cell receptor, a protein called ACE2, than target receptors on any other species evaluated. In other words, SARS-CoV-2 was surprisingly well adapted to its human prey, which is unusual for a newly emerging pathogen.

Huh?

BREAKING: Virus which predominantly infects humans is well adapted to predominantly infect humans!

Which proves exactly what?

On May 7 Michael Tracey pushed similar nonsense:

As New Evidence Emerges For COVID "Lab-Leak" Theory, Journalists Who Screamed Conspiracy Humiliate Themselves

Over and over again early last year, as the COVID pandemic was ramping up but hadnt yet reached the US in earnest, journalists working at prominent national publications claimed to have conclusive knowledge about the origins of the virus. It was trafficking in a conspiracy theory that had been roundly debunked  they collectively declared  to suggest that the virus may have originated in a laboratory that specializes in experimenting on human infectious diseases in Wuhan, China.

...

These declarations look dopier than ever after a new article was published this week by the journalist Nicholas Wade, who for many years was a science correspondent for the New York Times. At the very least, Wade demonstrates that the lab-leak theory ought not to be discounted. But he also goes much further, showing that the theory is in fact highly plausible.

Is the 'lab-leak' theory as 'highly plausible' as Wade's earlier theory that racial differences in economic success come from genetic differences amplified by culture?

The fact that 140+ well established genetic scientists signed a public letter which rejected the earlier Wade theory as "guesswork" might tell us something?

Two days ago Glenn Greenwald jumped in:

Glenn Greenwald @ggreenwald - 0:09 utc  May 25, 2021 It's stunning how quickly, in mainstream sectors, this traveled from "insane unhinged conspiracy theory that must be censored from the internet as harmful disinformation" to "serious and plausible possibility for which rational evidence exists."

Let's learn lessons from this. The Hill @thehill  May 25

Former FDA chief: Growing circumstantial evidence that COVID "could have come out of a lab" http://hill.cm/cYH8yN8

Then, under a similar mantle of 'media critique', Matt Taibbi furthered the 'lab escape' theory

When the Wall Street Journal came out with a story that a previously undisclosed U.S. intelligence report detailed how three Wuhan researchers became sick enough to be hospitalized in November of 2019, the toothpaste was fully out of the tube: there was no longer any way to say the lab origin hypothesis was too silly to be reported upon. Thats not to say the lab origin theory is correct, at all. However, thats irrelevant to issue at hand.

No, that is not irrelevant at all.

A few hours ago Jimmy Dore and Matt Taibbi again promoted that shit citing the dubious paper published on January 15 which was not, as claimed, an 'intelligence report' but stove piped speculation by a small group in Mike Pompeo's State Department and recently warmed up again by Michael R. Gordon(!) and others in the Wall Street Journal.

The Narrator has picked that shoddy performance apart:

TheNarrator @TheNarrator000 - 23:52 utc  May 26, 2021 Im amazed to watch Matt Taibbi correctly note this issue is highly technical and requires arduous expert consideration, only to pivot to saying a fringe theory was suppressed in a form of manufacturing consent. Wow.

...

Since the virus emerged I have quite diligently followed the scientific discussions about the origin of SARS-CoV-2. I can authoritatively say that the Nicolas Wade theory is not 'plausible' and certainly not 'highly plausible' at all. Wade and other assert that two theses - 'the virus emerged naturally' and 'the virus was created in and/or escaped a Chinese lab' - have equal weight.

We know that trick. Back in 2002 the two claims - 'Saddam Hussein will soon have nuclear weapons' - and - 'Saddam Hussein does not have the means to develop nuclear weapons' - were promoted as equally likely even as they were not. Both of those theses were theoretically possible. But the first was obvious nonsense while the second was well founded in objective facts. The 'lab leak' theory is similar to the first WMD claim - evidence-free speculation long promoted by a neoconservative leaning administration that was extremely hostile to the 'guilty' country in question.

As a reminder here is what the very same Michael R. Gordon and Judith Miller reported on September 8 2002:

More than a decade after Saddam Hussein agreed to give up weapons of mass destruction, Iraq has stepped up its quest for nuclear weapons and has embarked on a worldwide hunt for materials to make an atomic bomb, Bush administration officials said today."

The same day Condoleezza Rice went live to further that nonsense:

On CNN on Sept. 8, 2002, then-National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice infamously warned  incorrectly  that Saddam Hussein may be close to producing a nuclear weapon. When asked how close Saddam was to developing a nuclear capacity, Rice replied: RICE: The problem here is that there will always be some uncertainty about how quickly he can acquire nuclear weapons. But we dont want the smoking gun to be a mushroom cloud. As a push for action against Iraq, she added, How long are we going to wait to deal with what is clearly a gathering threat against the United States, against our allies and against his own region?

To see that writers like Tracey, Greenwald, Taibbi and Dore, usually considered to be adversarial to MSM nonsense, now cite such dimwits like Nicolas Wade and propagandists like Michael Gordon - who again quotes anonymous 'administration officials' - is beyond disappointing.

They encourage others like this BBC nitwit to follow Rice's path:

John Sudworth @TheJohnSudworth - 16:10 utc  May 25, 2021 There is no proof the virus leaked from a lab. But, of course, thats the point. Without transparency we cant rule it out either. Im proud to have been part of one of the first MSM news teams to ask these crucial questions.

"There is no proof that Saddam will soon have nuclear weapons. But, of course, thats the point. Without transparency we cant rule it out either. Im proud to have been part of one of the first MSM news teams to ask these crucial questions."

Yes, the sinophobe John Sudworth is again asking those crucial questions ...:

Hurry Up! Let's invade Iraq China!



Well then, how about these lab incidents:

From Jan. 1, 2015, through June 1, 2020, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill reported 28 lab incidents involving genetically engineered organisms to safety officials at the National Institutes of Health, according to documents UNC released to ProPublica under a public records request. The NIH oversees research involving genetically modified organisms. Six of the incidents involved various types of lab-created coronaviruses. Many were engineered to allow the study of the virus in mice. UNC declined to answer questions about the incidents and to disclose key details about them to the public, including the names of viruses involved, the nature of the modifications made to them and what risks were posed to the public, contrary to NIH guidelines.

When and where has John Sudworth, or any of the other writers mentioned above, asked the "crucial questions" about the University of North Carolina research with lab-modified coronaviruses?

That he would never dare to do so tells you everything you need to know about the issue. This isn't just about an implausible, evidence free tale of a SARS-CoV-2 lab escape. It is a campaign launched to depict China as an enemy of humankind.

Said differently:

If the question is are both hypotheses possible? the answer is yes. Both are possible. If the question is are they equally likely? the answer is absolutely not. One hypothesis requires a colossal cover-up and the silent, unswerving, leak-proof compliance of a vast network of scientists, civilians, and government officials for over a year. The other requires only for biology to behave as it always has, for a family of viruses that have done this before to do it again. The zoonotic spillover hypothesis is simple and explains everything. Its scientific malpractice to pretend that one idea is equally as meritorious as the other. The lab-leak hypothesis is a scientific deus ex machina, a narrative shortcut that points a finger at a specific set of bad actors. I would be embarrassed to stand up in front of a room of scientists, lay out both hypotheses, and then pretend that one isnt clearly, obviously better than the other. Besides the hazy science, there is an undeniable political aspect to this argument. When violence against Asian people in the US is spiking, its naive at best and violent gaslighting at worst to pretend that supporting an evidence-free hypothesis that clearly adds fuel to the idea that China inflicted COVID-19 upon the world, that they did this to us, is noble scientific dispassion. Theres a choice being made here between two ideas  one that falls neatly within the world of biology, and the other that knots together conspiracy theory, political intrigue, and xenophobia.

To further baseless speculations about a 'lab escape' of SARS-CoV-2 has serious political consequences:

President Joe Biden said Wednesday he is ordering U.S. intelligence agencies to "redouble their efforts" to investigate the origins of COVID-19, including "specific questions for China." Biden said an initial report he asked for earlier this month on whether the virus came from human contact with an infected animal or from a lab incident in China was inconclusive, so he's asking for a second report in 90 days to "bring us closer to a definitive conclusion." "As of today, the U.S. Intelligence Community has 'coalesced around two likely scenarios' but has not reached a definitive conclusion on this question," Biden said in a statement. "Here is their current position: 'while two elements in the IC leans toward the former scenario and one leans more toward the latter  each with low or moderate confidence  the majority of elements do not believe there is sufficient information to assess one to be more likely than the other."

That cave in to the hawks of course only encouraged them to pile on:

"I think we should send a clear signal to China," [Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C.,]said, "which seems to be the source of a lot of pandemics, that if this did occur in the lab, expect something to happen 'cause if we don't, we're just going to reinforce this in the future."

...

"President Biden sides with China, WHO and the liberal media on Wuhan virusjoining the 'nothing to see here crowd' by shutting down State Dept. pandemic origin investigation I commenced," [former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo] tweeted. "This isn't political. America must lead on this."

...

With the lab-leak theory getting new attention, [former President Donald Trump] released a statement this week, saying, "Now everybody is agreeing that I was right when I very early on called Wuhan as the source of COVID-19, sometimes referred to as the China Virus."

The claim that SARS-CoV-2 is men-created and/or escaped from a laboratory is a theory without any supporting evidence. On the other side there are in total hundreds of adenoviruses, rhinoviruses and coronaviruses of various types that have naturally evolved and eventually managed to infect humans. To see Tracey, Greenwald, Taibbi and Dore blaming mainstream media for giving more weight to the well known natural process than to the evidence free 'lab escape' theory is not only hilarious, it is sad.

This especially as they know that all their speculation does is to further warmongering China hawks.

Posted by b on May 27, 2021 at 7:33 UTC | Permalink

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Cleveland Metroparks has announced the launch of "Find Your Path," a new campaign to encourage exploration and inclusivity across the park districts more than 24,000 acres through a new mobile app.
The city of Avon Lake announced plans June 9 to permanently close the 100-year-old Avon Lake Generating Station in the fall that will cost mor
You know with all the craziness with COVID one of the few things that we took out of this is that we've learned some fun things and maybe some new traditions so we're carrying it on from last year."

Superintendent Michael Cook

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Traders have been upbeat about crude prices this year, sending them from a negative $38 a barrel last April to $66 this week. But an investment banker believes the outlook for oil prices is even more bullish than current futures prices suggest.

Addressing an energy outlook breakfast presented by Van Pearcy Wealth Service Team, Marshall Adkins, head of Raymond James Energy Investment Banking, told his audience oil prices over the next 18 months should rise to between $75 and $80 a barrel.

But they never stop at the right prices, going up or down, he said. They may overshoot.

In fact, Adkins said, global oil supplies are expected to be so tight by mid-2022 that every member of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, including troubled nations Iran and Libya, must be producing at maximum capacity with no outages. (But) There will be outages and thats when prices could hit triple digits, again, he said.

There are a number of reasons for his bullishness as he detailed for those attending his presentation at the Petroleum Club. One is the damage done to the nations oil and gas industry, not only by the pandemic but over the past several years, as investors have stayed away from the industry because of low returns or because of environmental concerns.

Oil is the new tobacco, he declared, noting how tobacco was shunned after the landmark multi-billion-dollar judgement against it in the 1990s. But after the settlement, he noted that tobacco stocks rose 20 times more than the overall market over the next 15 years.

They were starved for capital and started giving cash back to shareholders, Adkins continued. Oil companies are doing the same, returning cash flow to shareholders in the form of dividends or stock buybacks rather than growing production. As oil companies start generating returns of 10 to 15 percent, he predicted money managers will again invest. At the end of the day, they are in business to make money, he said.

Much of the investment dollars will find their way into the Permian Basin, he said, because it is the most important producing basin both nationally and internationally, he said.

The Permian Basin has been the single most significant support of the economy, he said. Look at the balance of payments and the impact on the economy of low energy costs. Lower energy costs is a huge deal.

Another reason for his optimism is the recovery in demand and the fact excess supplies have been taken off the market, leading to an undersupplied market and falling inventories. Adkins predicted a demand surge will accelerate over the next six months.

Finally, he said production capacity for members of OPEC and their allied nations like Russia will be maxed out in the next six to 12 months.

This puts Saudi Arabia in the drivers seat by the end of the year. Everyone but the Saudis will be at maximum capacity and it will be up to the Saudis to decide how much they want to produce to keep prices in check, he said.

It will take oil prices at $70 or above for US production to begin to grow again, he said. The nations output can return to where it was in January 2020 before the pandemic but only if oil is $75 or $80. Even then, Im not sure we can get back to 13 million barrels a day, not for the next three years.
MyPillow founder Mike Lindell was thrown out of the Republican Governors Association's spring conference this week after he showed up to the event in Nashville and vowed to confront GOP governors about his false claims surrounding the 2020 presidential election.

Lindell is a prominent ally of Donald Trump who has championed the former president's claims of election fraud. Lindell told Politico, and confirmed to The Washington Post, that a conference coordinator told him that despite being credentialed, he was prohibited from attending any of the official RGA events during the three-day session. In an interview with The Post, Lindell said he was denied transportation to a Tuesday evening dinner at the official residence of Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, R.

"These events are for RGA members, and Mike Lindell is not currently an RGA member," an RGA official told Politico.

The move to ban Lindell from the conference came after the pro-Trump pillow magnate promised to challenge Republican Govs. Brian Kemp of Georgia and Doug Ducey of Arizona, the chair of the organization, about the election results in their states - both won by President Joe Biden.

"I don't know how you sleep well at night, Doug, on something like that, and Kemp's even worse," Lindell said of the governors to Stephen Bannon, an ex-adviser to Trump, on his radio show Tuesday. "I don't understand people who are like that, so I just want to understand where they're coming from. I just want to know why."

Lindell told The Post on Wednesday that he was informed by an RGA official that he was prohibited from attending the dinner shortly before his shuttle was scheduled to leave.

"He said: 'I got bad news. I just got a call and you're uninvited,' " Lindell recalled. "I said, 'Why?' He said, 'It has something to do with Brian Kemp and Doug Ducey.' "

Representatives with the Republican Governors Association did not immediately respond to a request for comment early Wednesday.

Lindell has seen his national profile rise since publicly aligning himself with Trump last year and later pushing some of the wildest election-related accusations without evidence. He was sued in February for $1.3 billion by the election technology company Dominion Voting Systems over "false and conspiratorial" claims that the firm somehow rigged the 2020 election against Trump.

The lawsuits filed against Trump's lawyers and several right-wing media outlets have brought about awkward broadcast moments involving Lindell as he's continued to support baseless election claims. Newsmax attempted to stop Lindell from making claims about Dominion during an interview, and a host even read a legal disclaimer while talking over the pillow executive. When Lindell refused to stop spouting election misinformation, the anchor later walked off the set in frustration.

Moments before One America News aired a documentary from Lindell that he claimed offered "absolute proof" of election fraud, the cable news network ran a disclaimer detailing how the claims made in the film "are not intended to be taken or interpreted by the viewer as established facts."

He's recently focused his attention on Maricopa County, Ariz., where the Republican-led state Senate took custody of all the nearly 2.1 million ballots in the state's most populous county for an audit that's been denounced by local GOP leaders as a "sham" and a "con." Lindell described Arizona as "ground zero" at the Conservative Political Action Conference this year.

He repeated those baseless claims Tuesday to Bannon, the conservative provocateur who had his fraud case formally dismissed by a federal judge this week after months of haggling over how the court system should handle his pardon from Trump.

Lindell had reportedly attended RGA's winter meeting in 2020 as a guest of former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell. Some of those in attendance at that event had even encouraged Lindell to run for office, he told The Post, which came as Trump was nudging one of his most vocal allies to do the same.

"They all did. Everybody encouraged me," he said to Politico at the time. "There was a lot of encouragement."
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  Israel's top diplomat to the United Arab Emirates attended a ceremony in Dubai on the grounds of the Arabian Peninsula's first permanent exhibition to commemorate the Holocaust. Hours earlier, he'd attended an event establishing a joint venture between an Israeli and Emirati company.

The receptions on Wednesday were the clearest indication since a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip came into effect last week that the devastating 11-day war between Hamas and Israel and the violence that gripped Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque in the days preceding it have had no visible impact on the UAE's commitment to establishing deep ties with the state of Israel.

What we see here is the exact opposite of what we see in Gaza... What we see here in the whole normalization process is a departure from the past, Israeli Ambassador Eitan Naeh said.

At least 254 Palestinians were killed, including 66 children, in the Gaza Strip during the war. Another 1,948 people were wounded, according to Gazas health ministry, which does not differentiate between fighters and civilians. Twelve people were killed in Israel, including an Israeli soldier and two children. The bombardment of the blockaded Gaza Strip destroyed about 1,000 homes and badly damaged hundreds more. Hospitals, clinics and main sewage and water lines were also damaged or destroyed.

The violence, which erupted in the final days of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, angered citizens across Gulf Arab states, some of whom expressed support for Palestinians and opposition to Israel on social media or in limited street protests.

The UAE government and its top officials publicly expressed concern over the violence in east Jerusalem and condemned the storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque compound by Israeli security forces, as well as Jewish settler efforts to evict Palestinian families from their homes in the city's Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood.

It signaled a rare rebuke of Israel by the UAE since the two countries agreed to normalize relations last year. Some questioned whether the UAE would pause or halt the momentum of its strategic relationship with Israel, which included launching direct flights, cooperating on intelligence sharing, welcoming tens of thousands of Israeli tourists, investing in the Israeli gas sector and announcing a $10 billion investment fund for a range of Israeli sectors.

After the violence in Jerusalem escalated into a war between Israel and Hamas on May 10 with Gazas ruling militant Hamas group firing rockets on Israel, the UAE muted its direct criticism of Israel and instead issued a statement calling on all parties to cease fighting. Hamas is an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood movement, which the UAE views as a threat.

When asked about the nature of conversations with Emirati officials during the entirety of the recent conflict, Ambassador Naeh  who is posted in Abu Dhabi  said the people he'd spoken with showed a lot of understanding and curiosity."

There was no tension in the conversations, he said. To our ears, the UAE has called for the cessation of killing on both sides. They were mourning the death on both sides.

Na'eh spoke to The Associated Press from an open-air courtyard of the Crossroads of Civilization," a privately-funded museum in Dubai that was hosting an event showcasing its Holocaust exhibition. The museum's founder is Ahmed Almansoori, a prominent Emirati figure who said the museum grounds were bestowed by Dubai ruler and UAE Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The event, attended by Jews, Israelis, the German ambassador to the UAE and others, included a solemn hymn of a Jewish prayer in Arabic for those departed. Young Jewish children took part in a candle lighting.

The event focused on remembrance of the horrors of the Holocaust, the lessons to be learned from it and the importance of recognizing attempts at ethnic cleansing can happen and have happened since.

As guests exited, joint Israeli-Emirati flag lapel pins were being sold for 20 dirhams (around $5). A large piece of artwork in the courtyard depicted an Emirati man in traditional garb with his arm on the shoulder of an Israeli as they laughed and shared coffee under the word cousins" written in Arabic and Hebrew.

___

Follow Aya Batrawy on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ayaelb
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  A permanent resident of the United States wanted by China was freed by Dubai on Thursday, taking off on a flight to Turkey after spending weeks in detention.

Beijing had sought Wang Jingyu over his online comments about a deadly confrontation between Chinese and Indian forces last year.

Activists and his supporters say plainclothes police officers arrested the 19-year-old student as he came off an Emirates flight in April at Dubai International Airport, trying to connect on to New York. The State Department acknowledged his arrest, described the case as a human rights" concern and warned that he could have faced extradition to China.

He was freed just hours after The Associated Press began asking questions about his case.

Wang's case comes as the United Arab Emirates, long a U.S. defense partner in the Mideast, has drawn closer to China in recent years in trade and in efforts to combat the coronavirus pandemic. That already has sparked concerns among American officials amid what experts refer to as a looming great powers conflict the U.S. faces with China and Russia.

We remain alarmed by human rights violations and abuses in China and call on (Chinese) authorities to respect the fundamental freedoms to which their citizens are entitled consistent with Chinas international obligations and commitments, the State Department told the AP.

Chinese diplomats in the Emirates did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The Chinese Foreign Ministry also has not responded to requests about Wang.

Wang spoke via a video call from an Emirates flight, showing his ticket back to Istanbul.

The police here are very bad, Wang said. Today, they suddenly brought me on the plane. They didnt even give me back my clothes or shoes, and they gave me these flip flops to wear. They didnt give me anything, just a passport and a phone. Theyre really too awful. Too awful.

Wang came to authorities' attention last year after brutal hand-to-hand combat between Chinese and Indian forces in a valley in the Karakoram mountains, a region disputed following a 1962 war between the two countries. In June, soldiers armed with clubs, stones and fists battled each other for hours in violence that killed 20 Indian soldiers.

Months later, in February, China acknowledged the fighting killed four of its own soldiers. Wang then publicly questioned on social media why the Chinese government waited six months to release the information, sparking a harassment campaign that saw him flee to Istanbul, activists say.

Police in Wang's hometown of Chongqing reportedly have cited him for violating a 2018 law against demeaning heroes and martyrs and called his parents in for questioning. While en route from Istanbul to New York, activists say authorities arrested him on April 6 at Dubai International Airport, holding him first at an immigration jail and later at another at a police station.

While in custody, Wang has been questioned by Dubai police for endangering national security, and has, according to his statements, been visited by both Chinese Embassy (Abu Dhabi) and Consulate (Dubai) staff repeatedly, the rights group Safeguard Defenders said in a letter Wednesday to the UAE's ambassador to the U.S.

They pressured him to sign a document allowing him to be deported back to China, where he is wanted for what can only be described as freedom of speech crimes, the letter added.

A Dubai Public Prosecution charge sheet obtained by the AP describes Wang as facing an investigation over allegedly insulting one of the monotheistic religions, a charge typically referring to insulting Islam. However, the government's Dubai Media Office initially told the AP that Wang instead had been arrested for non-payment of hotel bills" and denied he faced any charge for insulting Islam.

Shown the charge sheet, the Dubai Media Office then said Wang had faced the insult charge later, but hotel payments were settled and charges were dropped and he was let free.

Chinese authorities have not inquired about Mr. Wang, nor did they request his deportation to China, nor has there been any contract between UAE and Chinese authorities with regards to Mr. Wang, the Dubai Media Office said.

The State Department said it had been actively seeking information on Wang's case as he could have been deported to China.

We actively discourage foreign governments from embracing the tactic of menacing journalists and dissidents overseas and will continue to make clear to partners and adversaries alike that this increasingly prevalent practice must end, the State Department said. Freedom of expression should never be criminalized.

The UAE, a federation of seven sheikhdoms on the Arabian Peninsula, maintains close economic ties with China. Over 4,000 Chinese companies operate in the UAE across its economic free zones, with roadwork projects noticeably involving Chinese state construction firms. The UAE imported $40 billion in goods from China and exported $9.3 billion to it in 2019 alone, according to United Nations trade data. Dubai's Jebel Ali port remains an important transshipment point for Chinese goods to the world.

The U.S. also maintains close defense ties to the UAE. Some 3,500 American troops operate in the country, including at Abu Dhabis Al-Dhafra Air Base. Jebel Ali is the U.S. Navys busiest port of call outside of America. The U.S. also plans a $23 billion arms sale to the UAE, including advanced F-35 stealth jet fighters, after Abu Dhabi recognized Israel.

Chinas influence in the UAE, however, has increasingly come under American scrutiny.

Since the coronavirus pandemic, the UAE relied heavily on Chinese vaccines for its initial inoculations amid questions about its efficacy. U.S. diplomats and security officials privately warned the state of Nevada not to use Chinese-made coronavirus test kits donated by the United Arab Emirates over concerns about patient privacy, test accuracy and Chinese government involvement.

The Wall Street Journal this week, citing anonymous U.S. officials, reported that American spy agencies recently saw two planes belonging to Chinas Peoples Liberation Army land at an Emirati airport and unload crates of undetermined materiel. Those officials warned a growing Chinese military presence in the Emirates could affect the UAE's efforts to obtain the F-35.

___

Associated Press writers Malak Harb in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Huizhong Wu in Taipei, Taiwan, contributed to this report.

___

Follow Jon Gambrell on Twitter at www.twitter.com/jongambrellAP.
Mercedes Cordero/Midland Reporter-Telegram

Thursday morning, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) released a statement upon learning that Midland Memorial Hospital has provided over $200,000 in medical care to migrant children housed at the Midland HHS site and has not been reimbursed:

I have just been made aware that at least 40 illegal immigrant minors from the Midland HHS facility have been treated at Midland Memorial Hospital for a barrage of issues including COVID, pregnancy, suicide attempts, and moreracking up charges in excess of $200,000. To date, President Bidens Department of Health and Human Services has not processed a single claim to pay back Midland Memorial.
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China's service sector emerges as major foreign capital magnet

People's Daily Online) 16:03, May 27, 2021

China's fast-growing service sector, which covers fields ranging from modern finance and intelligent logistics to digital economy, medical treatment and old-age care, has become a major magnet for overseas investors looking for opportunities in the world's biggest emerging market.

Travellers visit Yangchenghu Expressway Service Area along the Shanghai-Nanjing Expressway in Suzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province, Oct. 8, 2020. (Xinhua/Li Bo)

In the first four months of this year, a total of 14,533 new foreign-invested enterprises were established nationwide, an increase of 50.2 percent year on year and 11.5 percent over the same period in 2019, according to data from the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM).

Meanwhile, China's actual use of foreign direct investment (FDI) (excluding banking, securities and insurance) surged by 38.6 percent on a yearly basis to 397.07 billion yuan ($61.55 billion) during the same period.

Of particular note, the actual use of FDI in China's service sector jumped by 46.8 percent year on year to 312.94 billion yuan, accounting for 78.8 percent of the total FDI in the country.

In fact, thanks to a series of measures taken to expand opening up, China's service industry has been the main engine driving the FDI growth for some time now.

During the past five years, the annual growth rate of FDI in China's service industry averaged 4.4 percent, with the proportion of FDI in the industry rising from 69.8 percent in 2015 to 78.5 percent in 2020, making China the biggest recipient of FDI in the world in 2020, showed statistics.

"Practice has shown that the increase of FDI in the service sector can help optimize and upgrade China's industrial structure, better meet the needs of the people for consumption upgrading, and make vital contributions to stabilizing foreign investment," explained Zong Changqing, director of the department of foreign investment administration of MOFCOM.

What is the driving force behind this rapid growth of FDI in China's service sector?

This trend can be attributed to China's huge demand in the service industry, particularly in the field of high-tech services and modern services, said Li Jun, director of the Institute of International Trade in Services at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, a think tank under MOFCOM.

Li added that this can also be attributed to the optimism held by service-oriented multinational corporations in the development potential of China's service sector.

As the first step taken to penetrate Chinas senior care industry, last year, the Lendlease Group, a global real estate and investment giant, unveiled its maiden senior living community in Shanghai.

"Since China has a huge market for old-age care, Lendlease would like to tap the market potential. In the next 5-10 years, we believe the market will be bigger along with improved concepts on offering services for the elderly," said an executive with Lendlease.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
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If you ever happen to visit Springfield National Cemetery in southwest Missouri, you will notice something highly unusual inscribed on one stone.

It says: Orion P. Howe, Medal of Honor.

A Medal of Honor recipient in an obscure Ozarks cemetery? It is the resting place of the Drummer Boy Hero.

Drummer boys were iconic figures in the 19th-century military. Most regiments had one. Technically, they were supposed to be at least age 18. But enlistment officers often found loopholes or turned a blind eye to those who were much younger.

Theirs was a hard life. Drummer boys had to endure the same long marches that exhausted grown men. During battle, they removed the wounded from the field and later buried the dead. There were also several who, when a special duty called, rose to the occasion.

Which brings us to Orion Perseus Howe.

More Information Holy Cow! History is written by novelist, former television journalist and diehard history buff J. Mark Powell. Have a historic mystery that needs solving? A forgotten moment worth remembering? Send it to HolyCow@insidesources.com. See More Collapse

Only 12 years old when the war began, he marched off with the 55th Illinois Infantry where his older brother was also a drummer and their father (who had been a drummer himself in the Mexican American War) was the regiments bandleader.

The boy accompanied the 55th as it advanced into Dixie. By spring 1863 he was among the tens of thousands of soldiers Union Gen. Ulysses S. Grant had amassed outside heavily fortified Vicksburg, Mississippi, whose powerful guns commanded the Mississippi River.

On May 19, Grant ordered an assault on Vicksburgs defenses. As the 55th departed camp, Orion promised his father he would stay behind. But as soon as his dad was out of sight, Orion rushed after his regiment. He was 14 now and wanted to be where the action was.

At the height of the attack and with the 55ths ammunition running low, Orion volunteered to make the dangerous run to the rear under withering enemy fire to send word for more. One witness said, He ran through what seemed a hailstorm of canister and musket-balls, each throwing up its little puff of dust when it struck the dry hillside. Suddenly he dropped and hearts sank, but he had only tripped. Often he stumbled, sometimes he fell prostrate but was quickly up again and he finally disappeared from us, limping over the summit

Then he realized there had been a terrible mistake. The colonel had requested .54 caliber ammunition. Orion knew the regiments guns were .58 caliber. Fresh .54 cartridges would be useless.

Just then, a Confederate bullet ripped open his thigh. Orion fell bleeding under the pitiless Mississippi sun. He had seen other messengers go down (all were killed); as the only one left, he knew his comrades lives depended on him. When stretcher-bearers eventually reached him, he refused to be taken to a hospital until he delivered his vital message to General William Sherman, who was so impressed with Orions heroism he mentioned it in his official report to Washington.

Orion rejoined the 55th that December. He fought in 14 more battles before mustering out in December 1864 as a combat veteran  at age 15!

By then word of his valor had reached President Abraham Lincoln, who appointed him to the U. S. Naval Academy (he was too young to attend West Point). Something happened during his time at Annapolis and, although the exact reason is murky, he didnt graduate.

He attended dental school instead, going into practice first in Nebraska and then in Springfield, Missouri. On April 23, 1896, the good doctor was awarded the Medal of Honor.

Orion died quietly in 1930. He had just turned 81.

He rests today just as he did 150 years earlier, among his fellow Union veterans in a sleepy corner of the cemetery. His tombstone is like theirs, except for three simple words: Medal of Honor.

Although its our nations highest distinction, those words dont do justice to the extraordinary bravery displayed by someone who was still too young to shave.
Two Jacksonville High School graduates are representing Illinois in the national ArcGIS StoryMaps competition after their project showcasing the popular fried chicken restaurant KFC took first in the state competition.

Jake Hembrough and Reid R.J. Grojean, both 2021 JHS graduates, designed story maps highlighting KFC and several ways it connects with communities in the state.

The whole time we couldnt come up with an idea, Hembrough said. One night, we were like, What if we do it about KFC? We were just sitting and eating KFC at my house.

The idea cooked from there.

It started as a joke and as we worked on it, it developed and became a lot more in-depth than we expected, Grojean said.

This years theme for the state competition was Hometown, Illinois. The 11-map series developed by Grojean and Hembrough explores various topics, including location, driving distance, population density, obesity and number of KFC restaurants within a certain radius.

Though they knew theyd gathered a lot of good information, Grojean was surprised the state judges liked their topic, he said.

I didnt know if the judges would have the same sense of humor, so we were really happy when we heard wed won, Grojean said. It was a great moment for our senior year.

Though it was submitted just three minutes prior to the competition deadline, the pair said they were working on it down to the wire, tweaking the maps and making sure everything was ready.

Geography teacher Jim Chelsvig said he was proud of his students. This is the second time a project from Jacksonville has won the state competition.

Most people dont realize the work that goes into these types of projects and Chelsvig is proud of the work his students did, he said.

Its pretty awesome, he said. I knew these two had all the qualities to produce something special. Im happy something that started as adolescent hijinks had a sizable amount of research and though put into it  everything they did was very deliberate.

Hembrough was surprised by the amount of information they were able to gather about the chain, he said.

The most surprising part was the amount of information we were able to pull together and the connections we made with the demographics, Hembrough said.

Grojean also was surprised by how many KFCs were in the state and some of the average drive times, he said.

We found out that 36% of Illinois is within a 20-minute drive of a KFC; that was pretty surprising, Grojean said.

Now, the graduates are awaiting to hear how they placed in the national competition.

The story maps projects already are being judged at the national level and results are expected to be announced in early June.
A move in Springfield to add more classroom time to address learning loss from the COVID-19 pandemic advanced out of committee.

A Senate education committee has passed a resolution that urges districts to add time to the school day or days to the school calendar.

The legislation was introduced by state Sen. Kimberly Lightford, D-Maywood, who said it is designed to address the challenges that COVID-19 has created with a lot of learning disruptions.

Some have had in-person, some have been hybrid, some days in and out, but what this would do is just give them and urge them to add those additional school days starting in August once they recognize the need that their children have, said Lightford.

Schools were closed in March 2020 when the pandemic hit and many did not welcome students back on a full-time basis until this spring.

It may take years to determine the effects the lack of in-person instruction will have on school children. Surveys have shown parents were concerned about their childrens learning loss from virtual instruction.

Research conducted by national consulting firm McKinsey and Co. estimated that students who did not receive full-time, in-person instruction until this past spring lost an average of seven months of learning in 2020.

Macomb District 185 Superintendent Patrick Twomey said remote learning loss is on the minds of school administrators and will be addressed.

It is going to be about, when kids are back in school full time, taking good assessments about where the kids are right now, identifying where those gaps are at, and then addressing those gaps on an individual student basis, said Twomey.

Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, said the decision regarding details of the legislation should be made by each individual school district.

It needs to be locally determined and I really think it is important that educators, administrators and parents weigh in on this so that it doesnt grow into a mandate but actually is a collaborative process, Rezin said.

The resolution calls for school districts to begin adding classroom time this fall and continue for three years.

Adding hours to the school calendar would not come without cost. Lightford said the federal dollars coming from the American Families plan would cover it.

This would definitely be a great fit to use those resources and catching those kids up, Lightford said.
For Carol Piper and Gloria Biggs, co-chairs of The Salvation Army Womens Auxiliary Flea-Esta sale, its as if Christmas came early as they set up for this weekends sale with a record amount of donated items to put out.

Last years event was canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic and people were stuck at home with time to rummage through their homes and garages for items to donate.

Great, great, Piper said of how plans for the sale are going and the many volunteers who are helping. To be able to do this is amazing.

The most pallets of items donated in past years was 28, but this year they have 49 pallets to unload, along with several car loads of items that were being dropped off during set-up Wednesday and today.

The womens auxiliary is in charge of two big sales each year, the Flea-Esta sale and HOPS  the Holiday on Parade Sale, which is Christmas-themed and held in September.

All money raised from both sales goes toward childrens programs at The Salvation Army in Jacksonville.

All the money stays local, Biggs said.

Despite not having events last year, the womens group made sure children didnt go without as Christmas approached and the need for gifts and holiday spirit remained.

That was still done last year even though we werent making money, Biggs said.

Both of the sales started in 1993; they used to be held at the former Walmart building on Morton Avenue, but that site now houses Goodwill. Theyve been held at the Morgan County Fairgrounds, 110 N. Westgate Ave., since 2017.

Although mask restrictions have been lifted, I have asked our own ladies to wear masks for the safety of all of us, Piper said.

From books to linens to flower arrangments, and just about everything in between, rows of table are filled with items.

Anything for the kitchen, we have it, Biggs said.

The Flea-Esta sale will be from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday in the fairgrounds F-H building and a second building that will have furniture only.

Charles and Katie Pinkston, majors with The Salvation Army in Jacksonville, are helping the womens auxiliary set up. But the efforts bittersweet, because it will be their last time.

These ladies have become close friends, almost comrades in arms, Katie Pinkston said.

After seven years leading The Salvation Army in Jacksonville, the Pinkstons and their two sons will leave June 28 for a new assignment in La Porte, Indiana.

Were called up to wherever The Salvation Army moves us, Katie Pinkston said. Were going to what I call home, she said, adding that she will be closer to her family.

Working alongside her husband, Katie Pinkston enjoys working with The Salvation Army and its mission, she said.

Were one of those odd couples that loves to share an office, she said. I honestly wouldnt have it any other way.

Although shes excited to continue their work in another city, the two have grown fond of the Jacksonville community.

My sons grew up here, Katie Pinkston said. There hasnt been a day when I havent seen a little miracle here.

But the mission and helping is in the blood of Katie Pinkstons family. Pinkstons brother, Nathan Holt, and sister, Colleen Corliss, both are captains with The Salvation Army, she said, adding that Holt is in New Zealand and Corliss is in Belleville.

All three of us decided we wanted to be part of The Salvation Army, she said.

A farewell open house for the Pinkstons will be from 3 to 5 p.m. June 17 at The Salvation Army, 331 W. Douglas Ave.

Replacing the Pinkstons, Chris and April Clarke will take the helm June 29.

My husband and I are leaving a legacy behind, Katie Pinkston said. We know the next officers will do the same.
Joy Harris

Storm clouds roll into west-central Illinois on Thursday. A severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect for the region through 7 p.m., meaning conditions are favorable for sudden intense and potentially severe storms throughout the day. Some hail and flash flooding has been reported in rural areas.
Hillsboro students will honor prisoners of war and those missing in action for 24 hours starting at 6 a.m. Friday.
State

Border issue: Vikuto village accuse Assam Police of destroying properties

DIMAPUR, MAY 27 (NPN) | Publish Date: 5/27/2021 1:00:37 PM IST

Vikuto villagers of Mokokchung district have accused Assam Police personnel of destroying their properties.

In a letter to Lirmen Tsurangkong border magistrate, Vikuto village head GB Inato Awomi and Vikuto Village Council chairman Vikheshe Awomi alleged that around 25 armed and uniformed Assam Police personal along with some man in civil dress came to the field where the villagers were working around 12.30 pm on May 24 and told them that it was a disputed land and destroyed their farmhouse, besides cutting down around 500 areca plants

They said the high handedness of Assam Police was unimaginable, causing sufferings to the peace loving villagers and loss of properties. They claimed that Vikuto village was a recognised village under Mokokchung district without any dispute. They further requested the border magistrate to take necessary action to stop this kind of atrocities meted to our people in particular and the area in general.

Firing in border area: Meanwhile, Assam-based media reports claimed that some miscreants from Nagaland side had fired upon Mariani MLA, Rupjyoti Kurmi and his entourage while on the way to Disoi valley along the border area to take stock of encroachment on Assam side.

Kurmi told the media that his entourage was fired upon by miscreants and thanked his PSOs and Assam police constables for their prompt response and saving their lives. The Assam Police and Kurmis PSOs fired several rounds in retaliation, The Sentinel report stated.

Correspondent adds: When contacted Mokokchung police said that the MLA from Assam had visited the disputed are near Vikuto village under Mokokchung district. On learning about the presence of the MLA and his entourage, the villagers gathered at the site and shouted at them for allegedly destroying the plantation and some few huts. It was then that the security personnel of the MLA reportedly fired some blank shots before leaving the area.

In retaliation, the villagers reportedly fired two blank rounds of muzzle loading gun. Though the situation was under control, police said that investigation was on to ascertain the matter.
Thousands evacuate Congos Goma amid renewed volcano threat View Photo

GOMA, Congo (AP)  Tens of thousands of people are fleeing the city of Goma in eastern Congo fearing another volcanic eruption by Mount Nyiragongo, which spewed lava near the city last week. Traffic was jammed and pedestrians streamed through the streets, desperate to escape the impending danger.

A new eruption could occur at any moment, the military governor of Congos North Kivu province, Lt. Gen. Constant Ndima Kongba, announced Thursday. He ordered the evacuation of 10 of the 18 neighborhoods in the city of nearly 2 million residents.

Full of fear, residents from many of the unlisted neighborhoods also fled after no warnings of Saturdays eruption left so many in harms way.

The center of Goma, which was spared when the volcano erupted last week, is now under threat, with activity being reported near the urban area and Lake Kivu, Kongba said.

Based on these scientific observations, we cannot currently rule out an eruption on land or under the lake. And this could happen with very little, or no, warning, he said. An eruption under Lake Kivu could also have harmful consequences by leading to an explosion of gas in the lake, which could destroy parts of Goma and Gisenyi in neighboring Rwanda.

Residents were advised to carry very little and told not to return to their homes until advised by authorities. Authorities provided vehicles for the evacuations.

Many people were seen heading northwest toward the town of Sake and east toward Rwanda. International organizations such as the U.N. mission in Congo had on Wednesday already begun evacuating their staff.

Maguy Balume told The Associated Press by phone that she left her home with her two children and is heading for Sake.

I am with my two children heading toward Sake, after leaving my home. My husband is on a mission in Kinshasa and I dont know how Im going to meet him, she said. I dont think about my house because my familys safety and health come first. I can build another house if I want to. I know that my God will save Goma.

Mount Nyiragongo, one of the worlds most active volcanos, turned the dark sky fiery red Saturday night and then spewed torrents of lava into villages on the outskirts of Goma destroying more than 500 homes and resulting in the deaths of more than 32 people.

Scientists at the volcano observatory werent able to adequately warn the public of the eruption because of a funding cut, according to the scientific director of the Volcanic Observatory of Goma, Celestin Kasereka Mahinda.

A partnership between the government and the World Bank that had supported the observatory was cut in October 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic, leaving the observatory without even internet, he said. The observatory had just started to resume operations last month thanks to new funding from the U.S. Geological Surveys Volcano Disaster Assistance Program, which means the observatory can at least gather data after the eruption.

Data wasnt needed for many who felt hundreds of aftershocks this past week that have left gigantic cracks in the ground and destroyed buildings. The volcano sits about 6 miles from Goma.

I am fleeing the volcano, I am going to Rutshuru because I have no choice, said Alliance Simba who was leaving with her son.

Aminata Kavira, another woman evacuating, said had no idea where she would go, but grabbed her belongings and left her home.

We knew that the situation was becoming precarious, Kizito Alexis, a resident of Goma told AP, adding they have been told lava will likely hit their homes. The situation is serious and all the people are leaving and I am leaving for Bukavu, a city about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Goma.

Suzana Komayombi said the need to flee was all too familiar, as she also evacuated in 2002 before an eruption took everything she owned.

The first time there was an eruption we lost everything, today we still take the same road as in 2002, she said.

Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya said the situation was complex and Goma faced a number of risks: increased earthquakes, another volcanic eruption, a gas explosion under the lake, and ambient environmental toxicity caused by volcanic ash.

Mount Nyiragongos last eruption was in 2002, leaving hundreds dead. The lava coated the airport runways and also left more than 100,000 homeless in the aftermath. The volcano also erupted in 1977, killing more than 600 people.

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Kudra reported from Kasindi, Congo. AP writer Jean-Yves Kamale in Kinshasa, Congo and Carley Petesch in Dakar, Senegal, contributed.

By JUSTIN KABUMBA KATUMWA and AL-HADJI KUDRA MALIRO

Associated Press
Taiwan struggles with testing backlog amid largest outbreak View Photo

TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP)  Facing Taiwans largest outbreak of the pandemic and looking for rapid virus test kits, the mayor of the islands capital did what anyone might do: He Googled it.

If you dont know, and you try to know something, please check Google, Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je quipped.

Praised for its success at keeping the virus away for more than a year, Taiwan had until May recorded just 1,128 cases and 12 deaths. But the number of locally transmitted cases started growing this month and it soon became clear that the central government was ill prepared not only to contain the virus, but to even detect it on a large scale due to a lack of investment in rapid testing.

That left officials like Ko scrambling to catch up as the number of new infections climbed to some 300 a day. Kos search put him in contact with six local companies who make rapid tests and his government was soon able to set up four rapid testing sites in a district that had emerged as a virus hotspot.

Rapid tests, experts say, are a critical tool in catching the virus in its early days. The alternative that Taiwan has been relying on  tests that have to be sent out to a lab for processing  has led to backlogs that may be obscuring the true extent of the outbreak.

You want to identify those infected cases as soon as possible, to contain the spread, said Ruby Huang, a professor in the medical college at National Taiwan University. And then youre basically running against time.

With so few cases, Taiwan had been a bubble of normalcy for most of the pandemic. Schools stayed open, people went to bars and restaurants, and the islands economy was among the few globally that saw positive growth.

Its success was built largely on strict border controls that primarily allowed in only citizens and long-term residents, who then faced mandatory two-week quarantines.

From time to time it found small clusters of infections and stamped them out through contact tracing and quarantines. Last month authorities found a cluster involving pilots from the state-owned China Airlines.

Stopping the virus this time would prove difficult, in part because under government policy pilots were only required to quarantine for three-days and did not need a negative test to get out of quarantine. Soon employees at a quarantine hotel where China Airlines flight crew stayed started getting sick  and so did their family members.

The virus had escaped quarantine and was spreading locally, mostly in Taipei and surrounding areas.

The government in Taiwan  where only about 1% of the population have been vaccinated  responded by ordering a lockdown, closing schools and switching offices to remote work or rotating shifts. Contact tracers identified 600,000 people that needed to quarantine themselves.

The biggest roadblock has been testing.

Government policy throughout the pandemic has been to rely on polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, tests, which are seen as the gold standard for diagnosis but must be processed using special machines in a lab. The government has not encouraged rapid tests, which are quicker and cheaper but potentially less accurate.

In and around Taipei, labs have been working overtime in recent weeks but are still struggling to process all the samples.

Tim Tsai said on just a single day last week his lab in New Taipei city received 400 samples from hospitals to test. He said his lab was only able to process about 120 samples a day.

Our medical technicians, they were leaving work at midnight, he said.

The governments Central Epidemic Command Center said in a statement that all 141 government designated labs have the capacity to process 30,000 PCR tests a day. However, it declined to provide the actual number of tests being processed.

It said it was continuing to work with relevant labs to research ways to accelerate and expand our capacity, without impacting accuracy.

Throughout the pandemic the government has maintained there are few benefits to mass testing, with the health minister saying last year that public funds and medical resources could better be used elsewhere.

The government instead has emphasized a strategy of contact tracing and isolation and only testing those with symptoms and direct contact with someone infected.

This is more efficient, effective and accurate, said Chen Chien-jen, the islands former vice president, who led the pandemic response last year before retiring.

Experts say such a strategy may have been appropriate when case numbers were low, but needed to change as infections spread.

You should have a two-pronged approach. You do the quarantine, but you should do massive widespread testing, said K. Arnold Chan, an expert on drug and medical products regulation at National Taiwan University. For whatever reason the government is completely unprepared.

Taiwanese companies developed rapid tests for COVID-19 early last year, but the majority of their sales have been overseas.

Back then the CDC didnt support rapid tests, and there was no epidemic, said Edward Ting, a spokesperson for Panion and BF Biotech, which has had its own test since March 2020. We tried to sell, but it wasnt possible.

The central government finally appears to be coming around, with the health minister last week asking local governments to set up rapid testing sites. Ting said his company has since had calls from governments across the island asking about its tests.

The central government also is now offering subsidies for labs to buy new machines to process PCR tests.

Aaron Chen, whose company developed a machine that can process up to 2,000 PCR test samples every four hours, said he has diverted two machines bound for export to be used locally instead.

Ko, the mayor of Taipei, said his city has purchased 250,000 rapid test kits. Though the city is still relying on PCR tests to confirm actual cases, Ko said the rapid tests better allow him to monitor the situation on the ground.

Ko, a former surgeon, said it was important to be open to change.

Theres a phrase in Chinese: One thrives in times of calamity and perishes in soft times. Because when youre very successful you are not forced to improve. Only when you fail, then are you forced to improve, said Ko. We were too successful in the past year.

By HUIZHONG WU

Associated Press
Study: Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccines appear safe, effective View Photo

JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  Two vaccines made by Chinas Sinopharm appear safe and effective against COVID-19, according to a study published in a medical journal.

Scientists had been waiting for more details about the two vaccines, even though they already are being used in many countries, and one recently won the backing of the World Health Organization for emergency use.

The report, published online in the Journal of the American Medical Association, concluded the two vaccines are about 73% and 78% effective, as Sinopharm has previously claimed.

Researchers from Sinopharm and its local partners in the Middle East say the trial involved around 40,380 participants with the companys two vaccines  one developed by the Wuhan Institute of Biological Products and the other by the Beijing Institute of Biological Products  and a placebo. The trial was carried out in four countries  Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Jordan. However, the study provided data for just Bahrain and the UAE.

Theres nothing very surprising. Its consistent with what they have claimed previously, but it does not completely eliminate the doubts about Sinopharm, said Jin Dong-yan, a medical professor at the University of Hong Kong who was not involved with the study.

He raised doubts about how protective the vaccine was based on a recent surge of cases in the island nation of Seychelles, which had vaccinated a large majority of its population with the Sinopharm vaccine.

The study, performed mostly in younger men, had little information about the vaccines effectiveness against severe disease. Some experts also expressed concern at the shortage of female participants, with nearly 85% being male.

Its important to make sure you have tested it in enough women to be able to start seeing any possible safety concerns, said Ashley St. John, an associate professor at Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore.

A spokesperson for the company did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The vaccines, both of which are made with inactivated viruses, have already been given to millions of people across the world.

The World Health Organization cleared the Beijing Institute of Biological Products shot for emergency use in early May, making it the first Chinese vaccine to receive the certification.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in April that China has provided vaccines to more than 100 countries, although it has not identified them. While China has six vaccines in use, the majority of its exports come from two companies: Sinopharm and Sinovac.

___

Wu reported from Taipei, Taiwan.

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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.

By VICTORIA MILKO and HUIZHONG WU

Associated Press
Tuolumne County  Tuolumne County Public Health reports no new cases today. A total of eight cases are isolating including one who is hospitalized. Tuolumne County has a total of 4,179 cases split between 2,762 community cases and 1,417 Sierra Conservation Center (SCC) inmate cases, the California Department of Corrections reports no active cases. Total community cases released from isolation is 2,685 and the total number of tests administered is 99,737. The county reports 20,073 fully vaccinated residents and 3,589 individuals partially vaccinated.

Tuolumne public health shares that masking guidance for members of the general public has been updated by the state to align with CDC guidelines and will be effective June 15, 2021. The updated guidance can be viewed at: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/guidance-for-face-coverings.aspx.

Highlights:

Masks are not required for fully vaccinated individuals except in the following settings where masks are required for everyone regardless of vaccination status: on public transit, transportation hubs, indoors in K-12 schools, childcare, and other youth settings, healthcare settings including long-term care facilities, homeless shelters, and cooling centers.

Masks are required for unvaccinated individuals in indoor public settings and businesses. When people who are not fully vaccinated wear a mask correctly, they protect others as well as themselves. Consistent and correct mask use by people who are not fully vaccinated is especially important indoors.

In settings where masks are required for unvaccinated individuals, businesses, venues, operators, or hosts may choose to provide information to all patrons regarding vaccination requirements and allow vaccinated individuals to self-attest that they are in compliance prior to entry, implement vaccine verification, or require all patrons to wear a mask.

No person can be prevented from wearing a mask as a condition of participation in an activity or entry into a business.

Workplace masking rules are being discussed as detailed here.

Calaveras County  The Calaveras public health reports three new cases since yesterday with the countys total COVID cases at 2,198. Active cases increased two to seven total and recoveries increased one to 2,135 total. No Calaveras residents are hospitalized with Covid. The total number of people over 65 years old identified with Covid increased two to 455 since the pandemic began. Calaveras reports 35,525 vaccinations given and 44,167 Covid tests conducted.

Vaccines  Upcoming Covid clinics in Tuolumne are June 10, 2021  Johnson & Johnson at the Tuolumne County Public Health, June 14, 2021  Moderna at the Tuolumne County Memorial Hall, June 16, 2021  Pfizer at the Tuolumne County Memorial Hall, June 18, 2021  Johnson & Johnson at the Groveland Evangelical Free Church. In Tuolumne, Calaveras, and Mariposa schedule an appointment for a Covid vaccine by going to myturn.ca.gov. You can also call 833-422-4255 if you dont have an email (Mon to Fri 8 AM to 8 PM, Sat and Sun 8 AM-5 PM) for assistance. Vaccine eligibility is open to everyone 12+ (Pfizer) and 18+ (Moderna and Johnson & Johnson) More information about the vaccines is here. Public health encourages everyone to get vaccinated to help keep you and those around you protected from Covid-19, as well as reduce the spread of disease in the community, and help get the county to a less restrictive tier. Employers and event organizers may ask if a person is vaccinated, individuals may decline to answer.

Testing  Sonoras COVID testing is now at the Tuolumne Memorial Hall. The hours are Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 7 AM to 7 PM. The Groveland testing site remains open at the Youth Center, 18950 Hwy 120 on Thursdays from 7 AM to 7 PM. Due to low utilization and reopening of the youth center, this location will likely be relocated soon. Individuals can select the site location when making their appointment at www.lhi.care/covidtesting or by calling 888-634-1123. More details, including Calaveras testing information, are in our events calendar here.

Vaccines  Tuolumne is holding COVID-19 Johnson & Johnson vaccination clinic on May 19 in the Groveland area. For more details and to register for an appointment, visit myturn.ca.gov. Individuals in Calaveras and Mariposa may also register at myturn.ca.gov to schedule appointments. You can also call 833-422-4255 if you dont have an email (Mon to Fri 8AM to 8PM, Sat and Sun 8AM-5PM) for assistance. Due to technical issues, those who live in the 95223 area (Arnold) should enter 95222 as their zip code when searching for a location.

Vaccine eligibility is open to everyone 12+ (Pfizer) and 18+ (Moderna and Johnson & Johnson) with photo ID, not currently sick with COVID-19 or had a flu shot within the last 14 days. More information about the local pharmacies and other places offering the vaccine are here.

Tier Levels  Calaveras and Tuolumne remain in the Orange Tier of the States Blueprint for a safer economy but Stanislaus is finally able to move from the Red Tier to the less restrictive Orange Tier. The State released this weeks Blueprint update today with data for the week ending May 29th. Tuolumne Countys Case Rate decreased to 2.2, and the Test Positivity Rate is at 1.4 percent. Calaveras Case Rate increased to 6.5 with a Test Positivity Rate of 4.3 percent. The tier level system will go away June 15, reopening the economy with restrictions only on mega-events over 5,000 people indoors or 10,000 outdoors.

County/Date

Tier Color Active

Cases New Cases

Total Cases COVID

Deaths Amador 6/8 12 3 1,809 38 Calaveras 6/9 7 3 2,198 56 Mariposa 6/9 2 0 461 7 Mono 6/9 1 0 1,034 4 Stanislaus 6/9 141 20 56,437 1,068 Tuolumne 6/9 8 0 4,179 69 For other county-level statistics view our page here.
Governor Gavin Newsom View Photo

California Gov. Gavin Newsom visited San Jose yesterday, after a mass shooting at a light rail yard that left eight people dead.

Newsome was Thurdays KVML Newsmaker of the Day. Here are his words spoken at a brief press conference.

I thank the Sheriff, the Mayor and all the men and women in uniform. Youre going to learn over the course of the next number of days and weeks about the heroism of the San Jose police saving lives and the deputy sheriffs that ran quite literally, ran moments after, seconds after hearing about this incident without any consideration of their own lives and did an extraordinary job to save other peoples lives.

That said, uh, you know, theres a numbness I imagine some of us are feeling about this, because theres a sameness to this. You know, anywhere U. S. A. It just feels like this happens over and over and over again. Rinse and repeat, rinse and repeat.

It wasnt that long ago I was standing out here talking about the tragic loss of two children, one in a mothers arms at the Gilroy Festival, just here in this community down in Southern California and San Bernardino. Remember, a few years prior in Santa Barbara, you know, pick a state and here we are in the United States of America. Were experiencing something just is not experienced anywhere else in the world. Theres a sameness to this and that numbness.

I think its something were all feeling, all of us gathered here today. Looking at this scene, the (leaders) speaking similar tone in terms expression of condolences, all the right emotions and perhaps the right words, but it begs the damn question, what the hell is going on in the United States of America? The hell is wrong with us? And what are we going to come to grips with this? What are we going to put down our arms, literally and figuratively? Our politics, our stale rhetoric, finger pointing, all the hand wringing, consternation that produces nothing except more fury and frustration. More scenes like this repeated over and over and over again.

I say that not as a Governor. I say that as a father of four, I say that as a member of this community who cares deeply about it. So well have time to work through all of that. But one thing I just wanted to briefly speak to is the pain in those victims. I just spent, we just had the privilege spending the last few hours with the victims that are waiting to just learn if their loved one is still alive. Theyre dialing the phones, they cant find it. Theyre trying to go on, find a phone of a loved one, waiting here from the coroner, waiting to hear from any of us. Just desperate to find out if their brother, their son, their dad, their mom is still alive. Just imagine being in their foot.

I know everybody wants all the answers to all these questions, but theres no more important question and no more important answers that we owe than the victims of this senseless and tragic shooting. And so, Im not just going to express my condolences. Im not just going to express the usual platitudes, but let me just thank the heroism of those victims, the fact that I cant even stand up and support one another, is remarkable. What a human act.

And so I just want to we just want folks to know that were gonna be there for the victims. I want folks to know Im here for you Mr, Mayor and the County, the State. And I know we have elected officials of all political stripes who want to be here for this nation, but its time to deal with the endemic before this pandemic of gun violence, the pre-existing condition, that somehow was sort of pushed aside last year, but now has raised its ugly head again this year and wake up to this reality and take a little damn responsibility, all of us to do a little bit more and a little bit better this time and move beyond the platitudes and the usual rhetoric that tends to mark not just these moments, but the aftermath of these moments. As all of you go away and this fades out of view and then we rinse and repeat someplace else in this country.

So again, to the victims, to those who lost their lives and the families lost their loved ones. Yes, our hearts go out, but we are resolved to not make this meaningless, but to bring meaning that this tragic moment in our state and our nations history. Again, thank you to all the men and women behind me in their courageousness and the incredible, incredible bravery that was demonstrable of the men and women of our San Jose Police Department and Sheriffs office.

The Newsmaker of the Day is heard every weekday morning at 6:45, 7:45 and 8:45 on AM 1450 and FM 102.7 KVML.
Idaho lieutenant governor bans mask mandates View Photo

BOISE, Idaho (AP)  With the governor out of the state, Idahos lieutenant governor issued an executive order Thursday banning mask mandates in schools and public buildings, saying the face-covering directives threatened peoples freedom.

Republican Lt. Gov. Janice McGeachin is acting governor while Gov. Brad Little is at the Republican Governors Association conference in Nashville, Tennessee. He was expected to return Thursday evening.

Last week, McGeachin announced her run for governor, challenging the first-term incumbent Little. McGeachin is on the far right of the political spectrum in the conservative state, and her order could bolster her support as a candidate for governor.

Littles office said McGeachin did not make him aware that she planned to issue the executive order. The office didnt say what Little would do when he returned, but it did say residents value local control.

Throughout the pandemic, Governor Little has been committed to protecting the health and safety of the people of Idaho and has emphasized the importance of Idahoans choosing to protect our neighbors and loved ones and keeping our economy and schools open, Littles spokeswoman, Marissa Morrison, said.

Little has never issued a statewide mask mandate, but some counties, cities and schools have done so. Many have been lifting the mandates as more residents are vaccinated against COVID-19.

The executive order was signed by Republican Secretary or State Lawerence Denney and went into effect at 11 a.m. Denneys office said it confirmed Little was out of state before determining the order was valid under the Idaho Constitution.

The order applies to city and county governments, public universities, colleges and schools, and public libraries. The ban does not apply to federal buildings, hospitals or healthcare facilities.

Courts are not specifically mentioned in the two-page order, and its not clear how the executive order would effect that branch of government.

Ive been listening to people all across the state with the concern about, especially, why are little kids being forced to wear masks in school, McGeachin said during an interview by The Associated Press. My oath to the Constitution is to protect those rights and freedoms of the individual, and Ive never supported any type of a mandate on the individual, especially when it comes to health care choices.

She said she hoped Little would let the order stand when he returned.

About 590,000 of Idahos 1.8 million residents have been vaccinated. State officials have reported that the virus has killed more than 2,000 people in the state and sickened some 190,000.

McGeachin said she hasnt been vaccinated and didnt plan to do so. She believes she had COVID-19 last year and has a natural immunity now. She said the experience for her was similar to the flu.

I have concerns about the long-term, prolonged wearing of the mask, what it may do to our lungs, she said, noting it was her personal belief. If its something that the individual feels like they need to do to protect themselves than I support that.

McGeachin noted that the Republican-dominated state House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed a mask-mandate ban earlier this year, but the bill died in the Senate when a powerful committee chairman, Republican Sen. Fred Martin, declined to give it a hearing. ____

This story has been corrected to say the order bans mask mandates, not masks.

By KEITH RIDLER

Associated Press
Execution date set for inmate suing SC over firing squad law View Photo

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)  The South Carolina Supreme Court on Thursday set an execution date for one of two death row prisoners suing the state over a new law forcing inmates to choose between dying by firing squad or electric chair.

Brad Sigmons execution is scheduled for June 18, according to court documents.

Sigmon and another man on death row, Freddie Owens, both sued the state earlier this month, arguing that they cant be electrocuted or shot since they were sentenced under a prior law that made lethal injection the default execution method.

Their attorneys are seeking to block upcoming executions as the lawsuit works its way through the courts.

The state Corrections Department has said the electric chair is ready to use, but no firing squad has yet been established, with officials researching how other states carry out executions with firing squads.

South Carolina is one of only nine states to still use the electric chair and the fourth to allow a firing squad. The other three states that allow a firing squad are Mississippi, Oklahoma and Utah, according to the Death Penalty Information Center.

The execution notice comes less than two weeks after Gov. Henry McMaster signed into law a bill aimed at restarting executions after an involuntary 10-year pause, when the state ran out of lethal injection drugs. That law would require inmates to pick either death by gunshot or electrocution if lethal injection is not an available option.

The court last scheduled Sigmon to die on Feb. 12. He declined to choose between lethal injection and electrocution at the time, and the execution was later stayed due to the lack of lethal injection drugs.

Sigmon, 63, was convicted in 2002 for the double murder of his ex-girlfriends parents in Greenville County. He is among 37 inmates, all men, currently on South Carolinas death row.

South Carolinas last execution took place in May 2011, and its batch of lethal injection drugs expired in 2013.

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Liu is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.

By MICHELLE LIU

Associated Press/Report for America
Disgruntled worker who killed 9 appeared to target victims View Photo

SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP)  A gunman who killed nine people at a California rail yard where he worked appeared to target some of the victims, a sheriff told The Associated Press on Thursday, while a Biden administration official said the shooter spoke of hating his workplace when customs officers detained him after a 2016 trip to the Philippines.

Samuel Cassidy, 57, arrived at the light rail facility for the Valley Transportation Authority in San Jose around 6 a.m. Wednesday with a duffel bag filled with semi-automatic handguns and high-capacity magazines, Santa Clara County Sheriff Laurie Smith said.

It appears to us at this point that he said to one of the people there: Im not going to shoot you, Smith said. And then he shot other people. So I imagine there was some kind of thought on who he wanted to shoot.

While there are no cameras inside the rail yards two buildings, Smith said footage captured him moving from one location to the next. It took deputies six minutes from the first 911 calls to find Cassidy on the third floor of one of the buildings, Smith said.

Cassidy, who fired a total of 39 bullets, killed himself as deputies closed in on the facility serving the county of more than 1 million people in the heart of Silicon Valley. More than 100 people were there at the time, and authorities found five victims in one building and two in another, Smith said.

Kirk Bertolet, 64, was just starting his shift when shots rang out. He said Thursday that Cassidy worked regularly with the victims. He called them a good bunch of blue-collar people but said Cassidy stuck out as a loner and outsider.

I know some of those guys, theyll keep joking with you and theyll keep hammering you about stuff. And if youre thin-skinned and you cant take it  I see that is the main cause of whats going on, Bertolet said.

Sheriffs officials described Cassidy as a highly disgruntled VTA employee for many years, saying that may have contributed to him targeting the workers. Documents show he had worked at the transit authority since at least 2012.

Bertolet, a signal maintenance worker who worked in a separate unit from Cassidy, said he is convinced Cassidy targeted his victims because he didnt hurt people he encountered on the way to the second building, where more shots were fired.

Sam made sure he killed all who he wanted. He made sure they were dead, Bertolet said. I watched some of my coworkers breathe their last breaths, and they were all gone. Seven of them were just gone.

After being detained by customs officers in 2016, Cassidy spoke of hating his workplace and he was found to have a memo book with notes on how he hated the Valley Transportation Authority, according to a Biden administration official who described a Department of Homeland Security memo laying out Cassidys statements. The official saw the memo and detailed its contents to the AP but was not authorized to speak publicly about the ongoing investigation.

The Wall Street Journal first reported the memo.

It doesnt say why he was stopped by customs officers. It said he had books about terrorism and fear and manifestos but when he was asked whether he had issues with people at work, he said no. The memo notes that Cassidy had a minor criminal history, citing a 1983 arrest in San Jose and charges of misdemeanor obstruction/resisting a peace officer.

Cassidys ex-wife said he had talked about killing people at work more than a decade ago.

I never believed him, and it never happened. Until now, a tearful Cecilia Nelms told the AP on Wednesday.

She said he used to come home from work resentful and angry over what he perceived as unfair assignments.

He could dwell on things, she said. The two were married for about 10 years until a 2005 divorce filing, and she had not been in touch with Cassidy for about 13 years, Nelms said.

An ex-girlfriend described Cassidy as volatile and violent in court documents filed in 2009, with major mood swings because of bipolar disorder that became worse when he drank heavily. Several times while he was drunk, Cassidy forced himself on her sexually despite her refusals, pinning her arms with his body, the woman said in a sworn statement filed after Cassidy sought a restraining order against her. The documents were obtained by the San Francisco Chronicle.

Sheriffs officials said the three 9 mm handguns Cassidy brought to the rail yard appear to be legal. Authorities do not yet know how he obtained them.

He also had 32 high-capacity magazines, some with 12 rounds. In California, it is illegal to buy magazines that hold more than 10 rounds. However, if Cassidy obtained them before Jan. 1, 2000, he would have been allowed to have them unless he was otherwise prohibited from possessing firearms.

The sheriff said authorities found explosives at the gunmans home, where investigators believe he had set a timer or slow-burn device so that a fire would occur at the same time as the shooting. Flames were reported minutes after the first 911 calls came in from the rail facility.

The attack was the 15th mass killing in the U.S. this year, all shootings that claimed at least four lives each for a total of 87 deaths, according to a database compiled by The Associated Press, USA Today and Northeastern University.

President Joe Biden urged Congress to act on legislation to curb gun violence, saying, Every life that is taken by a bullet pierces the soul of our nation. We can, and we must, do more.

Several long-time employees were killed, many of whom worked together.

Whatever happened yesterday, it shows the character of these guys, how they tried to save others while going through that chaotic situation, light rail superintendent Naunihal Singh said.

The victims were Alex Ward Fritch, 49; Paul Delacruz Megia, 42; Taptejdeep Singh, 36; Adrian Balleza, 29; Jose Dejesus Hernandez, 35; Timothy Michael Romo, 49; Michael Joseph Rudometkin, 40; Abdolvahab Alaghmandan, 63; and Lars Kepler Lane, 63.

Family and friends remembered Taptejdeep Singh as a hero. He called another transit employee to warn him about Cassidy, saying he needed to get out or hide.

He told me he was with Paul, another victim, at the time, co-worker Sukhvir Singh, who is not related to Taptejdeep Singh, said in a statement. From what Ive heard, he spent the last moments of his life making sure that others  in the building and elsewhere  would be able to stay safe.

Karman Singh said Thursday that his older brother had a lions heart.

At an evening vigil that drew 1,000 people to City Hall, Singh said his brother died fighting for others, and trying to save his community, his VTA community.

Annette Romo, wife of Timothy Romo, told the crowd: I only have a few words to say: Never leave home without giving your loved one a kiss goodbye. Because that was the last I got.

___

Har reported from San Francisco, Dazio from Los Angeles and Long from Washington. Associated Press journalists Jocelyn Gecker and Daisy Nguyen in San Francisco, Martha Mendoza in Santa Cruz and John Antczak in Los Angeles contributed to this report.

By TERENCE CHEA, JANIE HAR, STEFANIE DAZIO and COLLEEN LONG

Associated Press
FLOWER MOUND, Texas (AP)  Three police officers escaped major injury after they were fired upon by a man during a standoff at a home in a Dallas suburb, police said Thursday.

Officers were responding to a call of a suicidal person when the 60-year-old man opened fire on them late Wednesday, Flower Mound police said. All three officers wore protective gear that prevented major injury, Police Chief Andy Kancel said.

With patience and professionalism we averted a great tragedy, he said.

In statements posted online, police earlier said that the three officers were shot and wounded. Kancel specified Thursday that one was struck by fragments, one was injured by glass after a bullet struck a ballistic shield and one was shot in the chest, but armor prevented major injury.

Police had returned fire but the man was not struck, Kancel said.

The man, whose name hasn't been released, surrendered shortly after 5:30 a.m. after a SWAT team used tear gas in the home, Kancel said. The man was taken to a hospital because of the tear gas exposure but was expected to be arrested after he is released from the hospital, Kancel said.

The police chief said the man's name will be released when he is booked in jail.

One officer was treated at the scene and the two other officers have been treated and released from the hospital, Kancel said.
Businesses could be spared billions of dollars of higher taxes in coming years  potentially freeing up money to spend on employees or invest in their operations  as a result of federal coronavirus aid flowing to the states.

Governors and lawmakers in more than half the states are planning to use at least part of their federal pandemic relief money to bail out unemployment insurance trust funds that were drained by a surge in jobless claims caused by business closures and restrictions, according to an Associated Press review.

By tapping into the federal aid, states could avoid automatic tax hikes that otherwise would be imposed on businesses to repay federal loans that have kept state unemployment systems afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic. That means state jobless funds could recover much faster than they did after the Great Recession, when it took some states five to 10 years to replenish their funds.

For the first time in decades, states will be able to come out of an economic contraction with well-funded unemployment compensation trust funds and be able to save for the next downturn, rather than focusing on paying off the debt from the last one, said Jared Walczak, vice president of state projects at the Tax Foundation, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit.

Some worker advocates would prefer that states spend their pandemic funds on direct aid to those who have suffered economically during the coronavirus outbreak.

Using the money to just replenish an account is not serving workers, said Jenna Gerry, a senior staff attorney at the National Employment Law Project, a New York-based group that advocates for low-wage workers and the unemployed.

But business groups contend that employees ultimately will benefit if their bosses don't have to bear the tax burden of restocking state jobless funds.

It impacts all aspects of that employers ability to employ people, to grow, to pay wages and benefits," said Dan Mehan, president and CEO of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The federal government has provided several rounds of aid to states since the coronavirus pandemic began last year, culminating with $195 billion of flexible funds included in the American Rescue Plan signed by President Joe Biden. U.S. Treasury Department guidance allows the money to be used to replenish unemployment trust funds to their pre-pandemic levels.

At least 29 states already have transferred or proposed to use a total of more than $12 billion of federal coronavirus aid for their unemployment trust funds, according to an AP analysis. That ranges from a $25 million transfer in Wyoming to commitments of as much as $1.5 billion in Georgia in Ohio.

Maryland's Republican Gov. Larry Hogan and California's Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom each announced budget plans this spring that would use $1.1 billion in federal COVID-19 funds to bolster their depleted unemployment compensation accounts.

Hogan said the move would allow the state to continue helping those who need it most while also providing tax relief for struggling businesses.

State unemployment benefits are funded by special federal and state taxes on employers. Each state sets its own tax rate and benefit payment amounts. When trust funds run low, states can get federal loans to keep paying unemployment benefits. Loans taken out in 2020 and still on the books next January must be repaid by November 2022, or else the federal government will raise taxes on businesses to recoup the money.

A decade ago, the Great Recession led to the insolvency of unemployment trust funds in 35 states that collectively racked up more than $40 billion of debt to pay unemployed workers. It took years for states to repay that.

A U.S. Labor Department report warned shortly before the onset of the pandemic that 21 states still didnt have sufficient reserves in their unemployment funds to weather a potential recession. Most of those states had to borrow from the federal government as pandemic-related layoffs provided a major hit to state unemployment funds.

In the year since March 2020, the total money in states' trust funds plummeted by two-thirds while the median state fund balance declined even more  from $1.1 billion to $250 million, according to an AP analysis.

But due partly to federal relief, fewer states have borrowed to pay unemployment benefits than during the last recession. As of Tuesday, 18 states owed the federal government $52 billion for unemployment loans. California topped the list, with almost $21 billion of unemployment debt, followed by more than $9 billion for New York and nearly $7 billion for Texas.

Missouri took five years to repay over $1 billion of federal unemployment loans after the recession that ended in 2009. But its unemployment fund has avoided insolvency during the pandemic because Republican Gov. Mike Parson shored it up with $300 million of aid provided under a law signed by former President Donald Trump.

Parson's office was lobbied to do so by the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Had we not done something like that, those employers out there -- small, medium and large that are trying to come back, and come back strong -- would have had to pay the price in increased charges to their unemployment insurance, said Mehan, the chamber CEO.

Pennsylvania just made its final payment in January 2020 on $2.8 billion of bonds issued to repay the federal government for unemployment compensation loans stemming from the Great Recession. A few months later, it had to start borrowing again because of the pandemic. The state now owes the federal government nearly $1.6 billion for unemployment loans.

Business representatives are encouraging Democratic Gov. Tom Wolfs administration and the Republican-led Legislature to use federal coronavirus relief money to restore the state's unemployment fund. House Speaker Bryan Cutler said he supports putting the relief money toward existing expenses before funding new programs.

Lawmakers talk frequently about supporting their businesses and their small businesses. This is a good opportunity to put some action behind that, said Alex Halper, government affairs director at the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry.

Worker advocacy groups have raised concerns that some states are putting coronavirus relief money into their unemployment funds while also ending an extra $300 weekly federal unemployment benefit.

Among the states doing so is West Virginia, which has borrowed $185 million from the federal government to keep paying regular unemployment benefits. Republican Gov. Jim Justice has set aside around $600 million of federal pandemic relief money for the state's unemployment system.

That money could have been used to help people buy food, pay rent, find a job or expand high-speed internet access, said Sean OLeary, senior policy analyst at the nonprofit West Virginia Center on Budget and Policy.

Theres a lot we could have done with that money over the past year, and theres still a lot we could be doing with it -- $600 million is a lot of money to just be sitting on right now," he said.

____

David A. Lieb reported from Jefferson City, Missouri. Associated Press writer Marc Levy contributed from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
Weather allowing, northeast Kansans should be able to see a shiny, full moon slowly disappearing from the sky as part of a total eclipse on Wednesday morning, according to Mike Ford.

But, according to Ford, the director of Banner Creek Science Center and Observatory near Holton, anyone in this region will likely see the moon set in the west before the start of the nearly 14-minute, 30-second cycle when the moon will be in total eclipse starting at 6:11 a.m.

Free Use of the Observatory

The public should be able to view the celestial show for free from the Banner Creek observatory at 22275 N Road, which is set to open at 3:30 a.m. Wednesday, according to Ford.

Viewing the Lunar Eclipse

Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe to see with your eyes.

Even then, if clouds obscure the view, the observatory will not open, according to Ford.

He said it was unclear Monday evening if the sky over northeast Kansas will be cloudy during the eclipse.

According to Space.com, Wednesday's total lunar eclipse will be the first of four eclipses in 2021, and it will be the first total lunar eclipse since January 2019.

Related Article: A Super Blood Moon Will Occur On May 26 And Here's What You Need To Know



Lunar Eclipse

Eclipses happen simultaneously for everyone on Earth, but how much of the eclipse each person can see depends on their location and time zone.

People will be able to see more of the eclipse the farther west they are from Topeka, according to Washburn University astronomy lecturer Mark Smith.

From around 6:11 a.m. to 6:25 a.m., the "absolute" eclipse will be visible.

"If you look closely on Wednesday morning about 4 a.m., you'll see the penumbra (the first component of the Earth's shadow and the lightest) begin to cross the sky," Smith said. "The umbra (the deepest portion of the Earth's shadow) would reach the moon by 4:45 a.m. Before the eclipse reaches totality, the moon sets in the western skies at 5:45 a.m. Sunrise is at 6:25 a.m., which is a little later than normal."

A lunar eclipse will only happen when the moon is full.

Super Flower Blood Moon

The moon will be a "super flower blood moon" on Tuesday night because:

According to The Old Farmer's Almanac, full moons in May are known as "flower" moons because the month is normally characterized by an explosion of blooming flowers in North America.

According to NASA, the full moon will be at the nearest point in orbit to Earth and is known as a "supermoon" because of its bigger and lighter presence.

During a lunar eclipse, the moon moves into Earth's shadow, giving it a reddish tint and earning it the moniker "blood moon."

According to NASA, the red color is produced by "a ring of light generated by all the sunrises and sunsets that happen across our planet" as sunlight passes through Earth's atmosphere.

During most lunar eclipses, according to Smith, the moon takes on a coppery hue rather than a crimson hue.

"During a lunar eclipse, the moon looks coppery rather than dark, and some of the sun's light, which is usually obscured by the eclipse, also gets to the moon because the earth's atmosphere bends the light that passes through it," he said. "The sky is blue when blue light is distorted further. This indicates that the light that passes through the Earth's atmosphere and still reaches the moon has the blue light lost, making it look reddish."

The next lunar eclipse will occur on November 19th.

Also Read: More Astrological Events to Look Forward to in the 2nd Quarter of 2021

For more Space news, don't forget to follow Nature World News!
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP)  The U.S. Department of Agriculture has declined a request by the pork industry to increase the speed at which pigs can be processed into meat, delivering a victory to slaughterhouse workers who had raised safety concerns about the plan.

The USDA announced Wednesday evening it would enforce a Minnesota judge's order issued in March. The judge struck down plans begun years ago but finalized by the USDA under former President Donald Trump's administration that would have lifted maximum line speeds at pork slaughterhouses, allowing dozens of plants to speed up production.

The United Food and Commercial Workers Union International, which represents 33,000 workers in the pork processing industry, welcomed the decision.

President Biden made a commitment to strengthen safety protections for Americas meatpacking workers on the frontlines of this pandemic. With todays USDA statement, the Biden administration is reaffirming its commitment to worker safety, union president Marc Perrone said Wednesday.

The USDA's decision followed a March 31 ruling by U.S. District Judge Joan Ericksen, who had considered a lawsuit filed by the union and found the USDA acted arbitrarily and capriciously when it refused to consider the impact of faster line speeds on worker safety. Ericksen ordered the rule to be vacated but delayed the effective date for 90 days to give the USDA and the industry time to prepare for any operational change.

The National Pork Producers Council, a group representing pig farmers, this week asked the USDA to appeal the ruling, seek a stay while the appeal is considered and request the agency pursue a fast-tracked rule that would allow higher line speeds.

In a statement posted Wednesday on its website, the USDA said pork processing plants should prepare to revert to previous maximum line speeds as of June 30.

The agency is committed to worker safety and ensuring a safe, reliable food supply. We will work with the establishments to comply with the courts ruling and minimize disruptions to the supply chain, the USDA said.

Pork processing plants in Hatfield, Pennsylvania; Coldwater, Michigan; Fremont, Nebraska; and Austin, Minnesota, have been working with the faster line speeds under a pilot project for years, and a plant in Guymon, Oklahoma, began faster speeds in 2019. Several others were expected to adopt faster speeds but plans were delayed by the pandemic.

The pork producers group had said the judges ruling would force plants already operating at faster speeds to return to the previous maximum line speed of 1,106 hogs per hour, significantly less than the 1,450 hogs per hour some plants were processing.

In a statement, NPPC spokesman Jim Monroe said the organization is disappointed with the USDA decision to support a flawed federal district court decision," adding that irreparable harm will be exacted on small U.S. hog farmers when this court order goes into effect at the end of June 2021.

The group earlier said the judges ruling will cut U.S. pork packing plant capacity by 2.5% and result in more than $80 million in reduced income for small hog farmers, according to an analysis conducted for the group by Iowa State University agricultural economist Dermot Hayes.

The group said it will pursue all avenues to reverse the court decision.

The Washington-based North American Meat Institute, a trade group for the meat processing industry, said the judges ruling could have significant unintended consequences, including that workers who will now have increased workloads as companies attempt to make up for lost production.

Hayes, in his analysis said some plant managers have told him they may add longer shifts or weekend work to keep up the production pace at slower rates.

The impact on consumer prices for ham, pork chops and bacon isn't immediately clear and will depend on how the industry responds. If the slower speeds cause processors to supply less pork to the market, grocers and restaurants are left competing against each other for a small amount of pork, which would drive up wholesale and retail pork prices, said Jayson Lusk, head of the department of agricultural economics at Purdue University.
Click here to read the full article.

Kevin Clark, who played kid drummer Freddy Jones in School of Rock, died on Wednesday, the Chicago Sun-Times and several other local outlets reported. He was 32.

Clark was riding his bicycle early Wednesday morning through the Avondale neighborhood of Chicago when a driver of a Hyundai Sonata struck him around 1:20 a.m., according to local police. Paramedics took him to Illinois Masonic Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 2:04 a.m., the Cook County medical examiners office and the Chicago Fire Department told the Sun-Times.

The 20-year-old woman who hit Clark with her car has not been arrested, but was issued citations, the police said.

The musicians only acting credit was in the Jack Black-starring School of Rock. Growing up in Highland Park, Ill., Clark he learned to play the drums at a young age, which helped him secure the role of mouthy Freddy Spazzy McGee Jones at 12 years old. Freddy cemented the percussion section of substitute teacher Dewey Finns band in the Richard Linklater-directed film. Black took to Instagram to remember Clark.

Devastating news, he wrote on Instagram. Kevin is gone. Way too soon. Beautiful soul. So many great memories. Heartbroken. Sending love to his family and the whole school of rock community.

Back in November 2018, Black and Clark reunited at a Tenacious D show in Chicago, where Clark gifted Black a Dreadwolf shirt custom apparel from Clarks own band. Though Clark did not continue with acting, music remained part of the rest of his life. Aside from working as a shift leader at a local Starbucks, Clark had also played in bands Funk It Lets Jam and, more recently, Robbie Gold.

Clark is survived by his mom and sister. A memorial is planned for Wednesday night at the Wooden Nickel in Highwood, Ill.

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When a San Antonio native creates a podcast, of course, she's going to feature an episode all about the Texas queen, Selena Quintanilla.

Pop singer Ally Brooke received some help for her Selena episode that released on Wednesday, bringing on her sister Suzette Quintanilla to talk about the love for San Antonio, "Selena: The Series" on Netflix, Latina representation in Hollywood and Selena's makeup secrets.

"My fans know how much I love Selena," Brooke said in the podcast. "I've done so many tributes to Selena since I was a little girl ... she was the reason that I believed in myself. She always made me feel like I could fly, I could chase my own dreams because she did it."

Quintanilla and Brooke started the conversation on how they share the same love and pride for San Antonio  a place where both used to perform many times at Market Square.

"We would do Fiesta almost every year... and then afterward we'd go eat at Mi Tierra," Quintanilla reminisced in the podcast. "My family and I have always felt that San Antonio is like our second home. I love other cities but San Antonio is very special to me. There's a lot of history there and, of course, the culture is everywhere, but to me, I consider that the hub of Tejano music."

RELATED: 'It's so exciting': San Antonio native Ally Brooke chats about new podcast show

The two also chatted about why the Quintanilla family decided to work on the Selena series, which premiered last December on Netflix. Quintanilla said her family loved "Selena" the movie, but added it didn't show how things evolved and how each family member played a role in the business. She noted she's grateful for Netflix for giving her family the platform to tell their story. However, Quintanilla did say producers sprinkled in some "Hollywood glitter."

"It's very challenging to be able to tell your life story to writers. They weren't there when all this happened. They took our family's stories, and they made a series out of it and it's sprinkled with Hollywood glitter  the Selena movie too. I mean Chris (Perez, Selena's husband) didn't walk around with a Tabasco holster. Little things like that throughout the movie  that's Hollywood. That's just the way it is. That was probably the most challenging part for me to be able to tell a story and then to tell a writer 'no, you have it all wrong.'"

Overall, Quintanilla said she's happy with the series and proud a Mexican-American family from Texas that's doing Tejano music was showcased on a platform as big as Netflix. She said she hopes it inspires Hollywood to feature Latinx people in their films, shows, and more.

"That is unheard of," she said. "As a Mexican American, as a Latina, our platform for everything across the board  TV, radio, everything that we do  it's opening up a lot more than what it used to be, but it's not like it's always there. That door, very rarely it's opened, and hopefully, with this series having such amazing success, it will shine a light on everyone in this world in regards to Hollywood that we are powerful. We are a huge, huge audience."

Throughout the podcast, Brooke and Quintanilla continue the conversation on family values and how Selena proudly represented the Mexican-American culture. The two also chat about Selena's makeup secrets, as she "had no glam squad" and "did her own makeup and hair."

Check out the full podcast and YouTube video below:
The San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA) announced yesterday that theyll be painting three new murals across the city this summer. The effort is backed by a $20,000 Art Bridges Grant and is in collaboration with San Anto Cultural Arts and the San Antonio African American Community Archive & Museum.

The cultural project is set to be completed this August, and will be developed by local artists Sandra Gonzalez, Victor Zarazua and Suzy Gonzalez. The participating muralists will lay paint at East Side staple Tony Gs Soulfood, the West Sides Wichos Deli and the San Antonio Museum of Art respectively. Notably, the final strokes of each mural desire a crucial co-sign from the represented communities.

Residents of those areas and SAMA patrons can now complete an online survey, which asks them to detail the ideas, themes, people and histories they want to see at their community's mural site. Drawing from this feedback, the artists will then create three different potential designs, which you can vote on this July.

READ MORE: Karbach Brewing Co. rolls out vintage-inspired 'rat rod' tap truck for summer

Each artist will complete multiple designs for the proposed murals, and we really want the community to vote because it's also about having the communitys perspective represented in the overall process, Bella Merriam, Head of Education at the San Antonio Museum of Art, told MySA.

One of the featured artists is Victor Zarazua, a West Side-raised artist who has worked as Mural Coordinator at San Anto Cultural Arts for the past five years. After painting for over 30, Zarazua was able to use his public art veteran-status to lend his expertise toward the collaborative mural project  SAMAs first.

That the museum is taking this initiative I think is a big step into expanding their idea of what the public wants to see in art and not what the museum thinks the public should see, Zarazua told MySA.

Initially inspired by Bronzeville at Night, a painting by Archibald Motley Jr.,that depicts a neighborhood in the South Side of Chicago, SAMA laid the project's foundations.

We thought, wouldnt it be great if we did a set of three murals that allowed the artists to capture the essence and the flavor of three different neighborhoods in San Antonio? And we thought the best way to do that was to partner with some organizations that we had already been developing relationships with, said Merriam.

READ MORE: Texas man goes viral on TikTok for perfect Britney Spears routine

The overall grant from Art Bridges amounts to $20,000 dollars, but the mural project is one of three community projects that it has helped fund (the rest is supplemented by SAMA). In addition to online surveys, there will be several community listening sessions on site during the mural process to gather public feedback, as well as a panel discussion with the artists and community partners to give all parties a chance to discuss the role murals play in San Antonio.

The other two participating artists are similarly based in the city. Sandra Gonzalez is an art educator at Roosevelt High School, with a background in murals both here and with the city of Philadelphia. Suzy Gonzalez, member of the collective Dos Mestizx, co-organizer of the San Anto Zine Fest and co-publisher of the zine Yes, Maam zine, similarly has a breadth of experience with public art here in San Antonio.

"Our hope for the project is that people will understand the intersection of art and history," Deborah Jarmon, CEO Director of the San Antonio African American Community Archive & Museum told MySA.

"History is, the way I like to say it, verbal storytelling, written storytelling  and when you think of art, its visual storytelling. So that's our intent, for it to be a visual story of history that happened in a place.

Bella Merriam, on behalf of SAMA, expressed hope for more projects like this to follow in the future.

Camille Sauers is a freelance writer based in San Antonio. Follow her on twitter @camillesaccount. Send her emails to camillefrancissauers@gmail.com.
3 1 of 3 Madalyn Mendoza for MySA Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Courtesy, Giles Design Bureau Show More Show Less 3 of 3





House of Ma, the new Vietnamese comfort food restaurant on the San Antonio River Walk, is temporarily closed due to a disagreement that arose during the first month of business.

A notice posted on the front door Friday said the restaurant owned by Chris Hill was temporarily closed weeks after the April 30 opening. The website also reflects the pause.
EL PASO, Texas (AP)  The El Paso Zoo plans to press charges against a woman who was caught on video trying to feed spider monkeys after climbing into their enclosure.

The exhibit is enclosed by a low fence, allowing for great visibility for visitors, and has a moat as an added barrier because spider monkeys cant swim and are afraid of the water, according to the El Paso Times.

Unfortunately, this may change all that because of this one ladys unfortunate actions, said Zoo director Joe Montisano.

MORE WILDLIFE NEWS: HIGHLY-ANTICIPATED TEXAS AQUARIUM IS FINALLY OPEN

Zoo staff found out about the trespass through a social media video that shows the woman attempting to feed two monkeys underneath a waterfall over the weekend. The zoo did not name the woman or detail the charges they plan to bring against her.

Shes very fortunate that it didnt have a worse outcome for her or the animals, Montisano said. These are primates. They are strong; they have canine teeth. They can scratch. We dont interact with them on the daily. And we dont interact with them without a barrier in between us.

Rob Lovett, of Lovett Law Firm, said Monday that the woman had been an employee of the law firm, but that she was terminated immediately.

The firm has always been a strong supporter of animals and advocacy. We absolutely do not condone this irresponsible and reckless behavior. We support the El Paso Zoo and our thoughts go out to the spider monkeys, Libby and Sunday, and we hope they recover from this traumatic experience, said Lovett.

Montisano said they will talk to the District Attorney about pressing charges.

This young lady decided to hop a fence, climb through some bushes, drop down into a four-feet deep moat, walk across the moat and then try to feed the spider monkeys, Montisano said.

We cant let this behavior go unpunished, he said.
Mike Sutter /San Antonio Express-News

If you've ever dreamt of eating a food truck clean of its taquito inventory (we know you have), your taco tenacity may soon be rewarded at a Bexar County-hosed event.

On June 26, Precinct 2 will pit local foodies against each other at an inaugural taco-eating contest at Rodriguez County Park. The Fiesta-themed celebration is not an official event for the 10-day celebration, but will have the usual fun, such as tunes and tacos, of course. There's also a pet costume contest.
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden ordered U.S. intelligence officials to redouble their efforts to investigate the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, including any possibility the trail might lead to a Chinese laboratory.

After months of minimizing that possibility as a fringe theory, the Biden administration is joining worldwide pressure for China to be more open about the outbreak, aiming to head off GOP complaints the president has not been tough enough as well as to use the opportunity to press China on alleged obstruction.

Biden asked U.S. intelligence agencies to report back within 90 days, and he told reporters on Thursday that he aimed to release their results publicly. The Democrat directed U.S. national laboratories to assist with the investigation and the intelligence community to prepare a list of specific queries for the Chinese government. He called on China to cooperate with international probes into the origins of the pandemic.

Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, have promoted the theory that the virus emerged from a laboratory accident rather than naturally through human contact with an infected animal in Wuhan, China.

Biden ordered an initial intelligence review in March and upon being presented with its conclusions as part of his regular presidential daily briefing determined more digging was required. He also ordered that excerpts of the assessment be declassified to demonstrate the U.S. government's commitment to investigating the origins of the pandemic and to increase pressure on China to cooperate, said White House press secretary Jen Psaki on Thursday.

He felt that it was important given a lot of confusion out there to make public, not only what the (Intelligence Community) had done, but also to expand the investigation for 90 days, add more components of the federal government, including our national labs and our health and medical expertise, she said. So thats exactly what we did."

Biden in a statement said the majority of the intelligence community had coalesced around those two scenarios but do not believe there is sufficient information to assess one to be more likely than the other. He revealed that two agencies lean toward the animal link and one leans more toward the lab theory, "each with low or moderate confidence."

The United States will also keep working with like-minded partners around the world to press China to participate in a full, transparent, evidence-based international investigation and to provide access to all relevant data and evidence," said Biden.

His statement came after weeks of the administration endeavoring to avoid public discussion of the lab leak theory and privately suggesting it was farfetched.

China on Thursday accused Biden's administration of now playing politics and shirking its responsibility in calling for a renewed investigation into the origins of the coronavirus pandemic, which was first detected in China in late 2019. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said Bidens order showed the U.S. does not care about facts and truth, nor is it interested in serious scientific origin tracing.

In another sign of shifting attitudes on the origins of the virus, the Senate on Wednesday approved two Wuhan lab-related amendments without opposition, attaching them to a largely unrelated bill to increase U.S. investments in innovation.

One of the amendments, from Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., would block U.S. funding of Chinese gain of function research on enhancing the severity or transmissibility of a virus. Paul has been critical of Dr. Anthony Fauci, the government's top infectious-disease expert, and aggressively questioned him at a recent Senate hearing over the work in China. The other amendment was from GOP Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa and it would prevent any funding to the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

As for the origin of pandemic, Fauci, a White House coronavirus adviser, said Wednesday that he and most others in the scientific community believe that the most likely scenario is that this was a natural occurrence, but no one knows that 100% for sure.

And since theres a lot of concern, a lot of speculation and since no one absolutely knows that, I believe we do need the kind of investigation where theres open transparency and all the information thats available, to be made available, to scrutinize, Fauci said at a Senate hearing.

Psaki said the White House supports a new World Health Organization investigation in China, but that an effective probe would require China finally stepping up and allowing access needed to determine the origins.

Biden still held out the possibility that a firm conclusion may never be reached, given the Chinese government's refusal to fully cooperate with international investigations.

The failure to get our inspectors on the ground in those early months will always hamper any investigation into the origin of COVID-19, he said.

The Chinese Embassy in Washington, without mentioning the Biden order, accused unnamed political forces of being fixated on a blame game while ignoring the urgent need to combat the pandemic.

Smear campaign and blame shifting are making a comeback, and the conspiracy theory of lab leak is resurfacing, the embassy said in a statement posted Wednesday on its website.

Administration officials continue to harbor strong doubts about the lab leak theory. Rather, they view Chinas refusal to cooperate in the investigation  particularly on something of such magnitude  as emblematic of other irresponsible actions on the world stage.

The State Department, which ended one Trump-era probe into the Chinese lab theory this spring, said it was continuing to cooperate with other government agencies and pressed China to cooperate with the world.

Chinas position that their part in this investigation is complete is disappointing and at odds with the rest of the international community that is working collaboratively across the board to bring an end to this pandemic and improve global health security," said spokesman Ned Price.

The White House also hopes Biden's commitment to the investigation will stand in contrast to the last administration, which in the earliest days of the pandemic refused to press China to reveal more about the origins and course of the deadly disease because it was fearful of disrupting trade talks in an election year.

___

Associated Press writers Christina Larson, Matthew Lee, Lisa Mascaro and Ken Moritsugu contributed to this report.
Emmy award-winnng true crime show "48 Hours" gave the case of a missing teen a signal boost on Tuesday.

Alani Mccaslin, 14, was last seen on May 15 in the 9000 block of Cordes Junction on the Northwest Side, according to the San Antonio Police Department. The CBS network show shared an article by local TV station KENS 5, an affiliate, Tuesday evening on Twitter with nearly 140,000 users.

RELATED: Viral video captures Central Texas police officers pulling man from burning truck

Mccaslin is diagnosed with a medical condition. She has curly, ear-length hair and was last seen wearing a grey sweatshirt and jeans.

Anyone with information on Mccaslin's whereabouts are asked to contact SAPD by calling 210-207-7660.

This is not the first time the show, which has been around since the late 1980s, has shared local stories. '48 Hours' often uses KENS 5 reporting to put a national spotlight on tragedies ranging from the death of baby King Jay Davila to the fatal shooting of SAPD Detective Benjamin Marconi.
Bill Neely, SACRD.org

Though San Antonio leaders have been dedicated to making sure residents who want to get vaccinated can do so, they have not forgotten those who succumbed to COVID-19 since the disease first emerged.

On Thursday, May 27, City of San Antonio leaders will be joined by community organizations to honor the more than 3,400 lives lost to the virus. Leaders will come together to create a memorial and encourage others to get vaccinated in an effort to care for the community. Mayor Ron Nirenberg, Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff, Assistant City Manager Colleen Bridger, District 4 Councilwoman Adriana Rocha Garcia and Head Starts JoAnne M. Ramirez will be part of the event to take place at 10 a.m.
LAKE MEAD, NRA, NV - JULY 17: A common side-blotched lizard walks between rocks in an area that was once filled with water in Boulder Harbor on July 17, 2014 in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Nevada. Last week, North America's largest man-made reservoir dropped below 1,082 feet above sea level, the lowest it's been since the Hoover Dam was built in the 1930s. A 14-year drought in the Southwestern United States and a dwindling supply of water from the Colorado River, in part due to cuts in the reservoir's annual allocation of water from Lake Powell, has left a white "bathtub ring" of mineral deposits left by higher water levels on the rocks around the lake as high as 130 feet. The National Park Service has been forced to close or extend boat launch ramps, and move entire marinas to try to keep up with the receding water levels. (Photo : Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

In an ecosystem where predation maintains balance and biodiversity in nature, organisms seem to develop evolving mechanisms to survive. One of them are the air-breathing anoles. Biologists from Queen's University discovered a unique way of how some terrestrial animals develop an underwater respiration system to escape from predators.

Dactyloidae or commonly known as anoles are a family of lizards domesticated in warmer parts of the Americas. Evolutionary biologists found in a study that this Costan Rican lizard can breathe underwater long enough to escape from predators that hunts it from the surface, long enough that will bore predators and leave them alone.

Although these survival mechanisms are not new at all, what puzzled biologists were how they could remain underwater for as long as 18 minutes.

Lizard's 'Scuba Tanks' Enables Them to Stay longer Underwater

Behavioral ecologist Lindsey Swierk from Binghamton University observed these lizards with an underwater camera and explained that water anoles can respire underwater by "rebreathing" exhaled air through 'scuba tanks' or bubbles. Evolutionary biologist Chris Boccia and his team explained that their discovery was unexpected and was not part of their original research plan. Biologically, vertebrates have much higher and larger metabolic rates, with smaller surface area to body ratio which requires them more oxygen to be able to rebreathe underwater. However, a water-repelling scale seems to hold air bubble over their relatively tiny nostrils.

The team's assumption to how the lizards were able to hold their breath for several days was that anoles redirect oxygen-filled air from a 'dead space' in their bodies like nose and mouth cavities to their lungs. The bubble helps them release carbon dioxide or helps distribute oxygen from the water to their body, which sustains their rebreathing capabilities.

Swierk discovered that lizards not only go underwater to hide from predators, but also search for food as well. Whichever reason they have for being remarkable divers, this technique is surely an evolutionary advantage on their end.

Also read: Miniature Chameleon, Believed to be World's Smallest Reptile, Discovered in Madagascar!

Organisms Overcome Challenges from their Environments

Evidence shown by water anoles led an understanding for researchers that organisms meet the challenges posed by their environments. "Discoveries like this can also be valuable to humans as we seek solutions to our own challenging problems, "said Luke Mahler, an assistant professor in Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology and Boccia's thesis supervisor.

Boccia stated that it is a little early to tell if these lizards' rebreathing ability can lead to any specific human innovations but replication of such rebreathing practice may be an interesting point for other fields such as innovation of scuba-diving rebreathing technology.

Generally, this trait was found in five groups of anoles not directly related to each other, but are semi-aquatic species. Their behavior suggests that these tiny lizards' mechanisms to stick around water sources provides strong survival advantage. However, non-aquatic anoles seem to only have limited underwater breathing skill than these adorable lizards.

Researchers of the study admits much more factors are to be considered when it comes to learning about this unique reptile. Future investigation might reveal that the rebreathing behavior is adaptive and can continue to evolve through time.

Also read: Mosasaur: Giant Dinosaur Water Lizard That Had Teeth Like Shark
Editor's note: In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to miss the major headlines, let alone San Antonio's must-read stories. In these regular roundups, MySA staff highlights the stories you need to know.

A former San Antonio police officer is behind bars after being sentenced to eight years in federal prison.

Sebastian Torres, a 27-year-old former cop, pled guilty in February 2020 to one count of distribution of obscene visual representations of the sexual abuse of children. According to a release from the Department of Justice, the San Antonio resident "admitted he sent numerous obscene depictions of young children being sexually assaulted to another individual."

After he has served his sentence, Torres will spend 15 years under supervised release.

News from the coast

Dramatic headlines have been pouring out of the Gulf Coast this week, beginning with yesterday's news that the body of an 18-year-old man has been found off shore.

According to the Corpus Christi Fire Department, Andrew Bass was swimming with his 16-year-old brother on Sunday, May 23, when he went missing. On Tuesday afternoon, beachgoers spotted his body not far from the shore line, and it was recovered by the CCFD.

Meanwhile just up the beach in Matagorda County, officials are warning people not to touch the bundles of cocaine that are washing up on shore. AP is reporting that more than 110 pounds of the drug have washed up in recent days, though authorities who would not disclose exactly where for, well, obvious reasons.

Local bookkeeper pockets $1.7 million

A San Antonio financial manager has been charged with pocketing $1.7 million from employer. The Express-News is reporting that Irene M. Scott spent nearly 10 years and a financial manager for Shelton & Valadez, and during that time she made more than 200 withdrawals from the company for her own personal use.

How did she get away with pilfering from the company for so long? She marked her withdrawals with as simply "vendor."
(Natural News) As increasingly more Americans ask why an antibody test cannot be used in lieu of vaccination to prove immunity against the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is now claiming that naturally immunity does not exist and has to come from a pharmaceutical injection.

Aligning its position with that of the World Health Organization (WHO), which back in December changed the definition of herd immunity to only include people who have been vaccinated, the FDA has declared that only Chinese Virus injections can bring about immunity, hence the need for a vaccine passport to prove that one is safe to rejoin society.

While the FDA says it is still studying whether or not natural antibodies exist, the agency insists that only a chemical injection of either mRNA (messenger RNA) or viral vector chemicals is safe and effective at preventing infection and spread of the Wuhan Flu.

Antibody tests, the FDA admits, can play an important role in identifying individuals who may have been exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus and may have developed an adaptive immune response.

However, antibody tests should not be used at this time to determine immunity or protection against COVID-19 at any time, and especially after a person has received a COVID-19 vaccination.

FDA says Big Pharma is superior to God when it comes to protecting the human body against disease

Even though the human body has been fully equipped by God with an immune system capable of warding off disease  yes, even disease that was manufactured by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) with cash provided by Anthony Fauci  the FDA says that Big Pharma chemicals are superior when it comes to building immunity.

This contradicts statements made by Yale University epidemiologist Dr. Harvey Risch, who says that an Israeli study found that people who contract the Chinese Virus naturally develop long-lasting immunity that does not require any type of vaccination.

People become immune by surviving infection, Risch says.

Serum antibodies and T-cell antibodies, the latter being white blood cells that attack infections, both have an extensive history of creating permanent immunity to the diseases they encounter.

These natural antibodies are proof of past infection, Risch contends. Past infection is extremely strong evidence of immunity.

Further, Risch says that injecting children with chemicals for Chinese Germs is a dangerous fools game that is extremely irrational. Children have a near-zero chance of contracting and spreading the Chinese Virus, so why should they be experimented on with life-altering chemicals that can never be removed from their bodies?

Meanwhile, young children who are getting injected are ending up in the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) with horrific side effects, including death.

Children have no reason to die from vaccination that isnt going to help them or the society, either, Risch maintains.

Dr. Peter McCullough, a professor of medicine at Baylor University, agrees. He warns that none of the so-called vaccines currently being administered were ever tested on people who had already tested positive for the Chinese Virus, so there is no safety data to back their use is this population.

Theres no evidence of benefit and only evidence of harm, he warns.

Then we have Nobel Prize winner Luc Montagnier, who flat-out stated in a recent interview that everyone who is getting injected for the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) will die within the next two years.

You see it in each country, its the same, he is quoted as saying. In every country, death follows vaccination.

More related news about Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) tyranny can be found at Pandemic.news.

Sources for this article include:

WND.com

NaturalNews.com
STORY AT-A-GLANCE

Isobel Cockerell, a reporter with Coda Story, requested comments on our coverage of COVID-19, and specifically on my decision to remove COVID-related content, for an article she was writing

In the interest of transparency, Ive posted the email exchange so you can read our response to her questions firsthand; unsurprisingly  none of it made it into the article

Cockerells false article claims that pressure from lawmakers and antidiscrimination groups prompted me to remove COVID-19 content from Mercola.com, in order to avoid social media ban

We provided the real reasons why COVID-19 content was removed from our site directly to Cockerell in the email exchange

She chose to ignore it and included nothing about the personal threats or counteroffensive assault by global terrorist and cyberwarfare experts against Mercola.com

(Natural News) (Article by Dr. Joseph Mercola republished from NoQReport.com)

Media organizations occasionally contact Mercola.com, sometimes to challenge us on the researched, fact-checked articles we post for our readers. This was the case when Isobel Cockerell, a reporter with Coda Story, requested comments on our coverage of COVID-19, and specifically on my decision to remove COVID-related content, for an article she was writing.

Her request was made on the same day the article was published. In the interest of transparency, below Ill post the email exchange so you can read our response to her questions firsthand, as  unsurprisingly  none of it made it into the article.

May 7, 2021, Coda Story published Cockerells false article, claiming that pressure from lawmakers and antidiscrimination groups prompted me to remove COVID-19 content from Mercola.com, in order to avoid social media ban.1

Not only is this wrong, but we provided the real reasons why COVID-19 content was removed from our site directly to Cockerell in the email exchange. She chose to ignore it and included nothing about the personal threats or counteroffensive assault by global terrorist and cyberwarfare experts against Mercola.com, instead stating:2

Coda Story Published Outright Lies

In the current climate, if you are not compliant about blindly promoting mandatory vaccinations and their safety, you will be silenced. Digital dictatorship is escalating, and people are increasingly being conditioned to think its not only necessary for misinformation to be removed but that its the obligation of these essential information carriers to do so. Twice in a one-week period, Mercola.com was hit by cyberwarfare, taking the site down.

Still, the threat of a social media ban had nothing to do with my reasoning for permanently removing select content from Mercola.com, as Cockerell implied. Further, the article, which is really nothing more than a propaganda piece for the Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH), makes a number of additional, blatantly false, statements.

Among them, Mercola, who has over a million followers on Facebook, has promoted a number of unproven treatments or cures for COVID-19, including the inhalation of bleach, Cockerell wrote.3 Not only have I not advocated inhaling bleach, but Ive warned against its use even in cleaning products due to its link to lung damage. The source Cockerell uses as evidence of this statement is a nonworking link to the CCDH Anti-Vaxx Playbook.

In its Anti-Vaxx Playbook,4 CCDH identified six leading online anti-vaxxers, which include yours truly along with Barbara Loe Fisher, Del Bigtree, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Dr. Sherri Tenpenny and Dr. Andrew Wakefield. In the playbook, the CCDH details the messages shared by me and others during the Fifth International Public Conference on Vaccination, held online October 16 through 18, 2020, such as:

Deaths being falsely attributed to COVID-19, thereby artificially inflating mortality statistics

The fact that COVID-19 has a 99+% survival rate unless youre very old and have underlying comorbidities

The fact that there are now several effective therapeutics for COVID-19, making a vaccine less relevant

The CCDH report presents these messages without any counterarguments. It does not negate or even debate the accuracy of any of them. It just brushes them aside as misinformation and lies without providing any proof whatsoever, and in doing so, it actually ends up strengthening our messaging. In fact, the report summarizes our concerns so well that Id encourage everyone to read it.

Self-Censoring? Anti-Science Movement? More Lies

In a petty move, Cockerell did not identify me as a doctor or osteopathic physician, which is just one more attempt to diminish credibility in a smear campaign. Some of the other outrageous claims made in Cockerells Coda Story article is a quote from Imran Ahmed, CCDHs CEO, which states, Joseph Mercola is a superspreader of antivaccine and COVID disinformation. The fact that he has said he will self-censor shows the impact of penalizing antivaccine propagandists.5

The idea that I am self-censoring due to some form of unnamed penalty is quite a stretch, and makes it clear that Ahmed did not read the article I published explaining my reasoning for removing select content. Cockerell also implies that Im part of an anti-science movement  another lie thats easily fact-checked, considering one of the driving forces behind Mercola.com is to share science-backed health information  including the science that not everyone wants you to hear.

NewsGuard Also Reached Out for Comment

In its ongoing scrutiny and grading of the Mercola.com website, NewsGuard, the self-ascribed arbiter of the trustworthiness of internet websites, asked for information on our COVID-19 articles so NewsGuard can update its rating of Mercola.coms coverage of the pandemic. The email from John Gregory, NewsGuards deputy editor on health, follows:

My name is John Gregory, deputy editor on health at NewsGuard. You spoke last year with a colleague of mine for our rating on Mercola.com.

We are updating our rating to reflect Mercolas coverage of the novel coronavirus strain, known as COVID-19. In an article titled Novel Coronavirus  The Latest Pandemic Scare, the site promotes two unfounded conspiracy theories about the virus origins:

The article stated: In January 2018, Chinas first maximum security virology laboratory (biosecurity level 4) designed for the study of the worlds most dangerous pathogens opened its doors  in Wuhan. Is it pure coincidence that Wuhan City is now the epicenter of this novel coronavirus infection?

There is no evidence that the Wuhan Institute of Virology was the source of the outbreak, and genomic evidence has found that the virus is 96% percent identical at the whole-genome level to a bat coronavirus.

The article also stated that the hysteria being drummed up follows a now well-worn pattern where the population is kept in a perpetual state of anxiety and fear about microbes so that drug companies (aided by federal health officials) can come to the rescue with yet another expensive (and potentially mandatory) drug or vaccine.

It later suggested the outbreak was timed to coincide with the presidential budget request in order to benefit the Pharma and public health lobby. No evidence is provided to back this conspiracy, nor does any appear to exist. Why did Mercola.com publish these claims, despite the lack of evidence backing them up?

NewsGuard previously classified Mercola.com as fake news because we reported the SARS-CoV-2 virus as potentially having been leaked from the biosafety level 4 (BSL4) laboratory in Wuhan, China, the epicenter of the COVID-19 outbreak.

According to NewsGuard, There is no evidence that the Wuhan Institute of Virology was the source of the outbreak, and genomic evidence has found that the virus is 96% identical at the whole-genome level to a bat coronavirus.6 But NewsGuards position is in direct conflict with evidence suggesting this virus was created in a lab and not zoonotically transmitted.

For those who arent aware, NewsGuard is another threat to the free sharing of information. It claims to rate information as reliable or fake news, supplying you with a color-coded rating system next to Google and Bing searches, as well as on articles displayed on social media.

If you rely on NewsGuards ratings, you may decide to entirely skip by those with a low red rating in favor of the more trustworthy green-rated articles  but NewsGuard is in itself fraught with conflicts of interest, as its largely funded by Publicis, a global communications giant thats partnered with Big Pharma, such that it may be viewed more as a censorship tool than an internet watchdog.

Full, Transparent Coda Story Email Exchange

Since Cockerells article on behalf of Coda Story gives no inkling of our email response, its published in its entirety below. Youll see that important details were omitted from the article, like calls for cyberwarfare experts to be enlisted against vaccine safety advocates, without which its virtually impossible to gain an understanding of whats really going on.

FROM: Isobel Cockerell

Dear Joseph and the press team at Mercola,

Im writing an article about your decision to remove Covid-related content from your website. I have a few questions and would be grateful for a response  were publishing the piece today and it would be so helpful to have a quote from you as soon as possible.

Anti-hate groups such as the CCDH are viewing this as a huge victory for science. Whats your response to that?

Is self-censorship the only way to maintain your platform on social media?

How do you respond to claims that the content youre sharing is dangerous misinformation and that its distribution should be reduced in order to maintain vaccine rates?

Many thanks for your help.

FROM: Mercola PR

Hi Isobel,

Since CCDHs associate Peter Hotez publicly demanded attacks should be launched against us by terrorism and cyberwarfare experts, our website has been taken down by these attacks twice in the last week.

www.nature.com

Dr. Mercola has encountered several serious threats to himself and his business, the damages have been really significant and we hope the digital hate group, Nature, and the Gates-funded Hotez will please call a stop for these attacks.

Dr. Mercola first reported the virus was likely leaked from the Wuhan laboratory in February 2020. Fact-checking groups had called this a conspiracy from the beginning (please see note from John Gregory). It is really difficult for the mainstream scientists and media who have been wrong about this to admit it now.

MTracey.substack.com

The digital hate group even utilizes this reason in their most recent report to deplatform us.

Disinformation Dozen: The Sequel

But it turns out everything we stated well over a year ago is now being validated.

NicholasWade.medium.com

The truth is really frightening for some people and industries; they will do anything to perpetuate propaganda that protects the most powerful pharmaceutical industry. It turns out that Publicis owns fact checkers like Newsguard, and they are a public relations company now being sued for illegally marketing opioids that killed thousands of people.

Massachusetts Sues Ad Agency Publicis, Alleging Deceptive Marketing Schemes Fueled Opioid Crisis (forbes.com)

Brill and Crovitz Announce Launch of NewsGuard to Fight Fake News  NewsGuard (newsguardtech.com)

Its really difficult to be in a position that in order to remain on these monopoly platforms, you have to lie and not make statements that upset the global pharmaceutical operations or their fact checking front groups.

Coda Story Response: We Consider the Matter Closed

Coda Story claims that it tells you stories you never heard before, shows you connections you never knew existed, and investigates the nuance and complexity of the world.7 Surely, then, its reporters would be eager to dive into the counterpoints provided in our email, in order to explore, investigate and share these connections with the world.

In reality, they revealed their true colors, both with the blatant lies they published and their refusal to explore the truth further, even after it was clearly presented. In the final email response from Coda Story, Burhan Wazir, managing editor, wrote:

Thank you for contacting Coda Story about Isobel Cockerells brief. As you will be aware, Isobel reached out to the Mercola team for comment and we updated our story with the company representatives position. We thank you for your cooperation and consider the matter closed. Regards,

The Purge by Big Tech targets conservatives, including us

Just when we thought the Covid-19 lockdowns were ending and our ability to stay afloat was improving, censorship reared its ugly head.

For the last few months, NOQ Report, Conservative Playbook, and the American Conservative Movement have appealed to our readers for assistance in staying afloat through Covid-19 lockdowns. The downturn in the economy has limited our ability to generate proper ad revenue just as our traffic was skyrocketing. We had our first sustained stretch of three months with over a million visitors in November, December, and January, but February saw a dip.

It wasnt just the shortened month. We expected that. We also expected the continuation of dropping traffic from woke Big Tech companies like Google, Facebook, and Twitter, but it has actually been much worse than anticipated. Our Twitter account was banned. Both of our YouTube accounts were banned. Facebook fact-checks everything we post. Spotify canceled us. Medium canceled us. Apple canceled us. Why? Because we believe in the truth prevailing, and that means we will continue to discuss taboo topics.

The 2020 presidential election was stolen. You cant say that on Big Tech platforms without risking cancellation, but wed rather get cancelled for telling the truth rather than staying around to repeat mainstream medias lies. They have been covering it up since before the election and theyve convinced the vast majority of conservative news outlets that they will be harmed if they continue to discuss voter fraud. We refuse to back down. The truth is the truth.

The lies associated with Covid-19 are only slightly more prevalent than the suppression of valid scientific information that runs counter to the prescribed narrative. We should be allowed to ask questions about the vaccines, for example, as there is ample evidence for concern. One does not have to be an anti-vaxxer in order to want answers about vaccines that are still considered experimental and that have a track record in a short period of time of having side-effects, including death. One of our stories about the Johnson & Johnson vaccine causing blood clots was fact-checked and removed one day before the government hit the brakes on it. These questions and news items are not allowed on Big Tech which is just another reason we are getting canceled.

There are more topics that they refuse to allow. In turn, we refuse to stop discussing them. This is why we desperately need your help. The best way NOQ, CP, and ACM readers can help is to donate. Our Giving Fuel page makes it easy to donate one-time or monthly. Alternatively, you can donate through PayPal as well. We are pacing to be short by about $3700 per month in order to maintain operations.

The second way to help is to become a partner. Weve strongly considered seeking angel investors in the past but because we were paying the bills, it didnt seem necessary. Now, were struggling to pay the bills. We had 5,657,724 sessions on our website from November, 2020, through February, 2021. Our intention is to elevate that to higher levels this year by focusing on a strategy that relies on free speech rather than being beholden to progressive Big Tech companies.

During that four-month stretch, Twitter and Facebook accounted for about 20% of our traffic. We are actively working on operating as if that traffic is zero, replacing it with platforms that operate more freely such as Gab, Parler, and others. While we were never as dependent on Big Tech as most conservative sites, wed like to be completely free from them. That doesnt mean we will block them, but we refuse to be beholden to companies that absolutely despise us simply because of our political ideology.

Were heading in the right direction and we believe were ready talk to patriotic investors who want to not only get in on the action but more importantly who want to help America hear the truth. Interested investors should contact me directly with the contact button above.

As the world spirals towards radical progressivism, the need for truthful journalism has never been greater. But in these times, we need as many conservative media voices as possible.

Read more at: NoQReport.com and NewsFakes.com.
(Natural News) The government of the United Kingdom has admitted that the University of Oxford, where AstraZenecas deadly Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) injection was developed, illegally and secretly harvested cell phone data from the public as part of its vaccine trials.

A report from the Independent Scientific Pandemic Insights Group on Behaviours (SPI-B) found that Oxford researchers discreetly collected data from peoples mobile phones, without their knowledge, and used it to study how getting vaccinated affects peoples lifestyles.

SPI-B, by the way, advises the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), which in turn advises the U.K. government. The illegal cell phone research was conducted by Oxford on SPI-Bs behalf, reports indicate.

According to the data, scientists from Oxford dug through the cell phone mobility data for 10 per cent of the British population back in February, singling out 4,254 people who had been vaccinated. These individuals were then monitored based on their movements for weeks at a time post-injection.

The researchers reportedly conducted various robustness checks, sorted by age, as well as measured the distance from home to vaccination point. They then compared this movement data to that of vaccinated people belonging to a different group in another area.

It was determined through this research that average pre-vaccination mobility increased by 218 meters [sic].

Governments are going full-on rogue using the Chinese Virus as cover

The privacy watchdog group Big Brother Watch says the findings of how this research was conducted are deeply chilling and extremely damaging to public trust in medical confidentiality.

Between looming Covid passports and vaccine phone surveillance, this Government is turning Britain into a Big Brother state under the cover of Covid, the group added.

The British government is attempting to defend itself by claiming that the data illegally collected was taken at cell tower rather than individual level, which supposedly makes it okay. Researchers at Oxford, the government added, were also granted ethical approval for their research.

Another government source told British news that the data collected was extensively anonymised by the company before it was used for research. Only a small group of pre-approved researchers had access to it, this same source claimed.

Individual surveillance was not possible, the source further added, because data was supposedly only collected at the cell phone tower level. There is no way to prove this, however.

It is not GPS tracing data which is commonly used by some large commercial companies for targeted advertising, the source further stated, attempting to make the research sound acceptable.

The use of contact tracing and other associated forms of surveillance during the peak of the Chinese Virus crisis has received plenty of attention and criticism from privacy campaigners who warn that a dangerous new precedent has been set for nearly unlimited surveillance of population groups.

Last year, the U.K.-based privacy watchdog group Information Commissioners Office (ICO) actually capitulated to the lowering of privacy standards based on the excuse that it was necessary to fight the Wuhan Flu.

Public bodies may require additional collection and sharing of personal data to protect against serious threats to public health, an ICO spokesperson announced at the time.

Just as many have been saying all along, the Chinese Virus is being used as a cover for all new government abuses of privacy and human rights that have emerged ever since the plandemic was first announced back in early 2020. Ever since, governments and corporations have been pushing the limits of freedom and liberty every chance they get.

More related news about expanding government tyranny in the age of the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) can be found at Pandemic.news.

Sources for this article include:

RT.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) says that he wont get vaccinated against COVID-19, explaining that he already contracted the virus last year and has natural immunity.

(Article by Jack Phillips republished from TheEpochTimes.com)

Paul, who is an ophthalmologist, said that he hasnt seen evidence proving the vaccine is more effective than having survived the CCP virus, so he wont get the shot.

Until they show me evidence that people who have already had the infection are dying in large numbers, or being hospitalized or getting very sick, I just made my own personal decision that Im not getting vaccinated because Ive already had the disease, and I have natural immunity, Paul, who appears to be the first senator to announce he wont get vaccinated, told WABC 770 AM on May 23, according to news reports.

Paul has made similar remarks in the past when interviewed about vaccines. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), who also recovered from COVID-19, suggested he wouldnt get the vaccine earlier this year.

Paul tested positive for COVID-19 in March 2020, becoming the first senator to contract the virus. At the time, Paul said he didnt develop any notable symptoms and wasnt hospitalized.

The senator also noted that the pressure from various institutions to get vaccinated flies in the face of individual liberty.

In a free country, you would think people would honor the idea that each individual would get to make the medical decision, that it wouldnt be a big brother coming to tell me what I have to do, Paul said in the interview, suggesting that the pressure campaign around vaccines could be an attempt to manufacture consent for other power grabs.

Are they also going to tell me I cant have a cheeseburger for lunch? Are they going to tell me that I have to eat carrots only and cut my calories? he added. All that would probably be good for me, but I dont think big brother ought to tell me to do it.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended that people who have recovered from the CCP virus should get vaccinated, arguing that health officials dont know how long natural immunity lasts.

Even if you have already recovered from COVID-19, it is possiblealthough rarethat you could be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 again, the CDC says on its website.

Pauls comments come as some states and municipalities have attempted to place pressure on businesses trying to reopen by ascertaining whether their employees have been vaccinated.

Last week, Oregon became the first state to require that individuals in workplaces, businesses, and houses of worship show proof of vaccination before entering facilities without wearing masks. And in Santa Clara County, California, health officials issued an order that stipulated businesses are now required to determine the vaccination status of employees.

Read more at: TheEpochTimes.com and HealthFreedom.news.
(Natural News) That smartphone apps that people use daily can be used to change personalities and perform mind control, according to experts.

In a report by the Daily Star, therapists have warned that harmless looking apps can be used to subtly shape peoples world views. As such, these pose a bigger threat than fake news on social media.

Talking to the publication, Brighton and Hove Psychotherapy co-founder Mark Vehrymeyer warned that the risk of apps shaping the way people think is huge. This is due to the fact that people are becoming more increasingly dependent on their phones, which many already see as an extension of themselves.

Getting better sleep or more exercise may seem harmless if that is what an app is doing for us, he said. But it may be that we increasingly hand over control of what we do and what we actually want to apps, making us feel more disconnected from ourselves and more and more dependent on this robotic parent.

Vehrymeyer warned that, unlike a real parent, these apps and the companies behind them do not intrinsically have our best interests at heart.

This is where the risk of conflicting interests comes into the picture and possibly the risk of some degree of mind control, he adds.

Smartphone apps can change personality traits

Vehrymeyers comments come after a three-month study on 1,523 adults found that smartphones can change peoples personality traits. To explain the results of the study, he used the example of a hypothetical app designed to help users develop better sleeping habits.

He stated that such an app could suggest that they not watch the news before going to bed. In addition, it could also track what a user watched on their phones and use the data to suggest newsworthy items for them at certain times.

So, with all this in mind, it does not seem to me to be a great leap to imagine a situation where a large corporation would use an app to create dependency on the part of the app users  sleep habits, exercise routine, behavior traits  and then to exploit this for further financial gains, he said.

He then continued to explain that this is how many marketing models work. Should an app have the backing of certain political movements or even foreign governments, these can have enormous power to subtly influence the behavior of the apps users. If the user-base is large enough, he stated that this can have a detrimental effect on society.

Suddenly, our world view is being shaped and also fed by said app, he explained. If you think this is unlikely you simply need to consider how some of the mainstream social media platforms operate by reinforcing what they see us consume in content and providing us with more and more of the same.

Another expert, Kirstan Murphy Adams of Psychotherapy Richmond, agreed, stating: Apps which are used to control other peoples minds are on the rise and they do manage to change a persons perception on something or change a characteristic in their personality especially if this is done on a daily basis.

Apps more dangerous than social media

Vehrymeyer pointed out that these apps are more dangerous than social media platforms. This is because these apps can become intrinsically embedded in peoples lives.

In recent times, social media and the companies behind them have come under scrutiny for censoring certain viewpoints and even spreading fake news. This has resulted in a large number of adults losing their trust in these services. (Related: Republican senators co-sponsor bill against social media censorship.)

In the U.S. alone, a Pew Research Center survey has found out that 59 percent of adults do not trust the news they read on social media.

Other smartphone apps, on the other hand, are not subject to the same scrutiny. At the same time, many of these apps, which tell people things such as how many steps they need to take, how many hours they should sleep and even when they should avoid the news, can become much more intrinsically embedded in peoples lives, according to Vehrymeyer.

Apps and the way we are increasingly using them are more dangerous as they can often be intrinsically embedded in our lives and thus become an extension of ourselves  a sort of executive function outsourced, he stated. And if that outsourcing is done to a malignant force then the risks could be huge.

Learn more about how smartphone apps and social media are being used to control peoples behavior at MindControl.news.

Sources include:

DailyStar.co.uk

Journalism.org
(Natural News) Scientists and officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), along with White House health officials, said that they could find out whether the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines are safe and effective for pregnant women and children under the age of 12 by the end of the year.

According to Dr. Anne Schuchat, principal deputy director at the CDC, the agency is expecting data from several trials testing the COVID-19 vaccines on pregnant women by summer. The data regarding vaccine testing on children as young as six months old can be released by the end of the year. With the complete data, the CDC will be able to make vaccination recommendations for expectant mothers and kids at least as young as nine.

Schuchat added that the CDC had already received preliminary trial data on women who had received the coronavirus vaccine in their third trimester. She described the data as reassuring.

The principal deputy director made these statements during a hearing with the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Wednesday, May 19 regarding the CDCs annual budget.

CDC wants pregnant women to get vaccinated immediately

During the hearing, Schuchat emphasized how important it was for pregnant women to get vaccinated against COVID-19 immediately. She claimed that women who are pregnant and get COVID-19 experience a worse version of the infection than non-pregnant women.

More time in the intensive care unit, more risk of severe outcomes including those rare deaths, said Schuchat. COVID also complicates pregnancy by increasing the risk of prematurity and leading to other types of complications.

Schuchat added that, while the CDC was still procuring its own data, it has found other research claiming that vaccinated mothers can transfer the coronavirus antibodies the vaccines supposedly generate to their babies while they are breastfeeding.

This claim was repeated by Dr. Anthony Fauci, chief medical advisor to President Joe Biden and director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. During the hearing, Fauci said that the baby would be able to get the coronavirus antibodies through the placenta during its last few months in the mothers womb. He added that this would supposedly improve the immunity of babies.

The CDCs current stance on whether pregnant women should get the coronavirus vaccine is that they can get it if they want it. The agency has so far stopped short of officially recommending the vaccines because the CDC requires supposedly solid research regarding the vaccines long-term effects before it can make a recommendation. But the CDC has also not done anything to discourage pregnant women from getting vaccinated.

The only available data that the CDC has regarding the safety of the COVID-19 vaccines for pregnant women are studies on animals who have received either the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccines. The CDC reportedly found no safety concerns for pregnant animals or their babies. (Related: VAX ATTACKS: The new mRNA coronavirus vaccines will likely cause immune cells to attack placenta cells, causing female infertility, miscarriage or birth defects.)

Coronavirus vaccines already being administered to kids aged 12 and up

The goal of officials like Schuchat and Fauci is to expand vaccine eligibility to as many Americans as possible and to get everybody in the country vaccinated quickly. This is why COVID-19 vaccine eligibility has been expanded to children between 12- and 15-years-old.

On May 10, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the Pfizer vaccine for children ages 12 to 15. This approval was followed by the CDC, who voted on Wednesday to recommend the Pfizer vaccine for this age group.

Both the FDA and the CDC were spurred on to allow vaccinations for 12- to 15-year-olds after they were allegedly presented with evidence from Pfizer that showed the coronavirus vaccine was 100 percent effective for that age group.

As of Tuesday, May 18, just one week after the FDA and the CDC officially allowed the COVID-19 vaccine to be administered to kids, the latter agency announced that as many as 600,000 kids ages 12 to 15 had already received their first doses of the Pfizer vaccine.

Last week the FDA authorized and the CDC recommended use of the Pfizer vaccine for adolescents, said Dr. Rochelle Walensky, director of the CDC, in a statement. In less than one week, we have vaccinated more than 600,000 12- to 15-year-olds, and in total, more than 4.1 million adolescents aged 12 to 17 have been vaccinated so far. My own son was one of them.

Walensky told senators during the hearing with Fauci and Schuchat that the agency is currently overseeing clinical trials that are meant to determine the supposed safety of the COVID-19 vaccines for even younger age groups.

But without even seeing the data, Walensky said that she expects children under 12 to be eligible for coronavirus vaccinations by the end of 2021 or the first quarter of 2022, at the latest. In her statement to the senators in the hearing, she said:

Vaccines are coming for youth. Theyre doing dose de-escalation studies now down to nine years old, soon thereafter down to six, then down to three, then down to six months  hoping to have more [data] by late fall and end of the year.

Fauci himself predicted that nearly all children in the U.S. will be eligible for the COVID-19 vaccines by the first quarter of next year.

Walensky said that the country hit a landmark in its mass vaccination efforts when on Monday, May 17, more than 60 percent of the adult population had received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. She said the country needed to continue its effort to force people to get vaccinated to ensure that vaccine coverage in the country is widespread and uniform.

The CDC director added that, by her agencys estimates, more than 274 million coronavirus vaccine doses had already been administered in the U.S.

The White Houses goal is to get 70 percent of all adult Americans vaccinated by July 4, and around 70 to 85 percent of the total population vaccinated. This is the goal supposed health experts said is necessary for the U.S. to achieve herd immunity.

If you havent yet been vaccinated, perhaps you will consider being our reason to celebrate one more, said Walensky.

Learn more about how dangerous the coronavirus vaccines are to children and pregnant women by reading the latest articles at DangerousMedicine.com.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

CNBC.com 1

CDC.gov

ABCNews.go.com

CNBC.com 2
(Natural News) The horrifying crimes against humanity once pursued by the Third Reich are now being repeated in America, but this time under the label of covid vaccines.

UPDATE: This article is being misconstrued. It does not call for violence. It calls for Nuremberg style trials against those researchers who are using children for medical experiments.

This article is being removed until further notice.

Healthy human children are being injected with deadly biological weapons  spike proteins that even the Jonas Salk Institute conclusively identifies as the culprit behind vascular disease and blood clots. These children are being recruited into mRNA medical experiments that transform their own bodies into bioweapons factories, churning out spike protein particles that may kill them, all while researchers watch and document the horrifying consequences.

This is all openly admitted by the FDA, which endorses the use of human children for potentially deadly covid vaccine medical experiments. The FDA has published horrifying reports of adverse reactions experienced by children in a Pfizer covid vaccine fact sheet labeled 144413. See the original FDA document here (PDF).

In case the FDA removes this sheet, we have archived it at Natural News servers here (PDF).

Hear my full Situation Update podcast (at the end of this article) for the complete discussion of what all this means.

FDA admits mRNA vaccines cause adverse reactions in 86% of children, but calls it safe anyway

This Pfizer page at the FDA provides links to all the fact sheets and press releases where the FDA celebrates expanding its emergency use authorization to children aged 12 to 15.

That fact sheet contains the following table that details the shocking rate of side effects and damage experienced by 12  15 year olds (i.e. children) who were given the mRNA injections:

Table 5: Study 2  Frequency and Percentages of Adolescents With Solicited Local Reactions, by Maximum Severity, Within 7 Days After Each Dose  Adolescents 12 Through 15 Years of Age

As you can see from the table, 1127 children were given the first dose of the vaccine, and 1097 children received the second dose. What happened to the 30 children who didnt show up for the second dose? Did they die?

Among those children injected with the mRNA vaccine medical experiment:

A shocking 86% experienced side effects.

Nearly 44% suffered moderate side effects defined as interfering with activity.

66% of the children experienced fever.

65% suffered headaches.

Other side effects experienced by these children as part of these medical experiments include chills, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, muscle pain and even joint pain.

Even after 86% of children experienced such side effects after being injected with the first dose, researchers continued to harm the children with a second dose. This is a plain violation of US law, international law and the Nuremberg Code.

The FDA claims this is all about protecting children while pushing more vaccine sales to generate billions of dollars in profits for Pfizer

Amazingly, the FDA claims in its celebratory press release that expanding Pfizers experimental vaccine to 12 to 15-year-olds is a kind of breakthrough, not a crime against children:

The FDAs expansion of the emergency use authorization for the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine to include adolescents 12 through 15 years of age is a significant step in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, said Acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock, M.D. Todays action allows for a younger population to be protected from COVID-19, bringing us closer to returning to a sense of normalcy and to ending the pandemic. Parents and guardians can rest assured that the agency undertook a rigorous and thorough review of all available data, as we have with all of our COVID-19 vaccine emergency use authorizations.

In other words, the FDA is admitting they are fully aware of the 86% side effect rate when it comes to injecting children with experimental mRNA vaccines.

They know this harms kids. Thats the whole point.

That makes the FDA complicit in carrying out heinous crimes against humanity by subjecting children to these mad science medical experiments that smack of Josef Mengele and the Nazi Holocaust.

Never forget that Pfizer has previously run deadly medical experiments on children in Nigeria. The government of Nigeria even issued arrest warrants for Pfizer executives over the deaths of 11 Nigerian children during medical experiments. From the story, Nigeria Issues Arrest Warrants for Top Pfizer Officials After Drug Experiments Conducted on Children:

Judge Shehu Atiku, sitting in the city of Kano, said that Nigerian Pfizer head Ngozi Edozien and senior company officials Lare Baale and Segun Donguro failed to appear in court in compliance with a Nov. 6 court order.

The state of Kano is seeking $2.6 billion from Pfizer, charging that the company illegally tested an experimental antibiotic, Trovan, on children in Kano during a meningitis outbreak in 1996. According to the government, the drug trials were carried out without the informed consent of the childrens parents or the Nigerian government, and led to the deaths of 11 children. Dozens of other children were allegedly harmed by the drug.

Whether in Nigeria or America, Pfizer is harming children in the name of Big Pharma profits

When it comes to mRNA vaccine trials in the USA, when serious reactions such as facial paralysis are identified in the vaccinated group, the FDA (and presumably, the researchers) dismiss it as coincidence. From the FDAs own document:

Bells palsy (facial paralysis) was reported by four participants in the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine group. Onset of facial paralysis was Day 37 after Dose 1 (participant did not receive Dose 2) and Days 3, 9, and 48 after Dose 2. No cases of Bells palsy were reported in the placebo group. Currently available information is insufficient to determine a causal relationship with the vaccine.

Thus, no matter what horrific side effects are caused by the vaccine experiment, they are dismissed and ignored. After all, there are billions of dollars to be earned from authorizing more medical experiments on children, and they cant let side effects get in the way of their agenda.

This FDA document even admits the vaccine is not approved and may cause serious injury or even death:

FDA has authorized the emergency use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, which is not an FDA-approved vaccine.

Adverse Reactions in Clinical Trials

Adverse reactions following the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine that have been reported in clinical trials include injection site pain, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, chills, joint pain, fever, injection site swelling, injection site redness, nausea, malaise, and lymphadenopathy (see Full EUA Prescribing Information).

Adverse Reactions in Post Authorization Experience

Severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, and other hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., rash, pruritus, urticaria, angioedema), diarrhea, vomiting, and pain in extremity (arm) have been reported following administration of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine outside of clinical trials. Additional adverse reactions, some of which may be serious, may become apparent with more widespread use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine.

The FDA even admits that life-threatening anaphylactic shock may occur following the vaccine, or that vaccine recipients may lose consciousness:

Appropriate medical treatment used to manage immediate allergic reactions must be immediately available in the event an acute anaphylactic reaction occurs following administration of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine.

Syncope (fainting) may occur in association with administration of injectable vaccines, in particular in adolescents. Procedures should be in place to avoid injury from fainting.
Across South Australia, a health alert has been issued with powerful, warm winds producing more hazardous dust storms.

The Dangerous Surf Conditions

People suffering from asthma and breathing issues are being encouraged to remain indoors where possible and get medical advice if their condition becomes critical after the dust set in yesterday. Warning has been given to drivers that the dust storm will possibly impact the morning commute.

The strong winds are entering from either side of a cold front which is spreading out into the lower end of South Australia and the Northern Territory on the tail of a low that has got in from the Bight overnight. Meteorologists are also warning of dangerous surf conditions which are predicted to smash the southeast coastline of Queensland.

Felim Hanniffy, Bureau of Meteorology senior forecaster said: "It's because of quite a great low-pressure system that progressed and stays slow moving off the north island of New Zealand." He added that it seems the most powerful part of the swell will occur on Tuesday but still sort of a strong swell on Wednesday.

Also Read: More Than Meets the Eye: New Study Reveals Benefits of Dust Storms on Marine Life

The Swell

The swell is expected to get to three meters in height and warnings have been given for the Sunshine Coast Gold Coast, and Fraser Coast, with likely closures of beach. Mr. Hanniffy said there is also a possibility for Queensland's surf to reach dangerous levels again later this week.

"The swell does calm back a touch but it will still stay increased through the mid-week period and there's a possibility for that swell to rise back up to dangerous levels later in the week as you approach Friday and the weekend," he said. The low coming in over the Bight will also bring a trough in which will bring about some showers and storms for southern region of the Northern Territory and less hot temperatures across Western Australia and Victoria.

A high is boosting showers across coastal regions of Queensland which will follow the hazardous surf - leaving a large portion of the state wet in the next 48 hours. Tasmania and the capital will also experience wet weather with temperatures not rising beyond 20C for either.

Dust Storms

They are usually defined as catastrophic weather events where great amounts of dust particles are raised and conveyed by powerful winds, it is characterized by suddenness, weak horizontal visibility (< 1 km), not too long duration, and serious destruction.

The occurrence of dust storms is generally a role of natural climatic factors (precipitation, surface wind speed, and temperature) and human activity, while it is still uncertain which one is the main factor controlling the magnitude, frequency, and extent of the dust storm. The instrumental records that is available are not long but too short to clear up these questions.

Related Article: Dust Storm Caused by Northwest Winds Hits Beijing Earlier than Expected

For more news, updates about dust storms and similar topics don't forget to follow Nature World News!
(Natural News) There has been a sudden shift in the mainstream medias coverage about the origin of the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19).

Instead of doubling down on the claim that it originated in tainted bat soup, the corporate media talking-heads are now in agreement that the Chinese Virus may have escaped from a laboratory in Wuhan, China.

The Wall Street Journal reported on a new United States intelligence report citing three researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Virology who became so ill in November 2019 that they had to be hospitalized.

This is right around the time when the Wuhan Flu first emerged in China, and yet the World Health Organization (WHO) continued to claim for at least two months following that there was zero human-to-human transmission of the novel virus.

Anthony Fauci of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) would later admit to fact-checkers that the Chinese Virus may have emerged from some source other than bats.

I am not convinced about that, Fauci told Katie Sanders of Politifact when asked if he believed the Wuhan Flu developed naturally. I think we should continue to investigate what went on in China until we continue to find out to the best of our ability what happened.

Certainly, the people who investigated it say it likely was the emergence from an animal reservoir that then infected individuals, but it could have been something else, and we need to find that out. So, you know, thats the reason why I said Im perfectly in favor of any investigation that looks into the origin of the virus.

Remember when Politifact debunked the Wuhan lab theory?

Now, both the current and former heads of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say they are open to the idea that the Chinese Virus came from a Chinese lab. More than likely, its creation was funded with U.S. taxpayer dollars via Fauci.

Hilariously, Politifact recently had to remove a fact check it conducted last year claiming that the lab leak origin theory of the Wuhan Flu had been debunked. Suddenly, that debunked theory is back on the table as a strong possibility.

So much new evidence has emerged in recent months that it would be a conspiracy theory to reject the Wuhan lab leak theory. While the full extent of those responsible for its creation has yet to be determined, it seems obvious at this point that the virus is unnatural and its associated pandemic a deep state creation designed to plunge the world into tyranny.

Early on, former President Donald Trump made the suggestion that the Chinese Virus may have originated in China. This prompted the usual accusations of racism, followed by mass censorship across social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter.

Perhaps its a bad idea to appoint tech officials the arbiters of what constitutes a conspiracy theory or disinformation, and demand that they execute social media purges on that basis, remarked roving journalist Michael Tracey.

Toby Young also pointed out that a mere year ago, the lab leak theory was dismissed by Facebooks independent fact-checkers as misinformation.

Now, even Dr. [sic] Fauci is saying it should be investigated, Young added. Good example of why Big Tech companies should not try to censor misinformation.'

Conservative commentator Steven Crowder also chimed in that had the mainstream media given some credence to the lab leak theory, perhaps the outcome of the 2020 election would have been a bit different with a less trashy outcome.

More of the latest news about the governments Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) flip-flopping can be found at Pandemic.news.

Sources for this article include:

Summit.news

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) I am sure almost anyone reading this remembers the long list of examples, via video compilations, of dozens+ local news personalities all repeating the exact same lines, and how pundits all used specifically scripted words, as shown during the Trump admin about bombshells, and turning points and the beginning of the end, all showing that when seen together, news stations are all bought and paid for to pump propaganda.

(Article by Susan Duclos republished from AllNewsPipeline.com)

We start with that because it has just been documented, using Democrat politicians own social media posts, how members of the Democrat party all robotically repeat the same key words, or virtual signaling words.

For those new that have not seen those MSM clips , here is just one of many examples to show the point.

This has been the media/Democrats playbook for years, repeat the same thing over and over and over .and overagain in an attempt to program the audience into believing something that simply isnt true.

Well, they are still at it, but this time Democrat politicians and puppets are using social media to repeat the same lie over and over, in order to convince Americans of fake news.

As many already know, there have been a long, growing list of attacks in New York and California, among other places, against Jewish people, with mobs attacking anyone they even perceive as being Jewish.

Videos posted to social media showed extremists yelling f***ing Zionist and other similar profanities while holding a Palestinian flag, according to reports. A group of pro-Palestinian extremists, described by one man as actual terrorists on the streets of New York City, mobbed a restaurant and spit on patrons because they were Jewish, according to the same man. These are not Palestinian terror supporters, he wrote on Twitter. These are actual terrorists on the streets of New York City. Attacking diners for one reason. Theyre Jewish.

Over the last week, there are so many different videos of separate attacks, mobs spitting patrons of a restaurant, as the staff valiantly stood in front of those patrons, arms spread, blocking the attacks from those being attacked.

A car with multiple people in it and a Palestinian flag hanging out the top , chasing down a lone Orthodox Jewish man who can be seen running for his life.

Those are just two videos out of the dozens found in just the last week when searching YouTube

While we are seeing pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian protests on the streets of America, video proof shows that the actual physical attacks are against the Jews, I have checked multiple video platforms, and in one both groups clashed after the pro-Palestinians attacked, but in all the others there are mobs attacks against any perceived to be Jewish, by pro-Palestinian groups, liberals and other anti-Semites.

What we arent finding are video proof of any attacks going the other way around. Jewish persons, and even protesters, are not attacking Muslim in Islamophobic hate crime attacks.

No matter how you cut it, Jews in America, while always leaning leftward for some odd reason, have absolutely nothing to do with what is happening in the Middle East.

No one should be physically attacking any whole group of people for nothing more than being who they are.

Which brings us to the DNC scripted key words that Democrats have started repeating ad nauseum about a rise in Antisemitism and Islamophobia, attacks, despite there being no reports of a rise in Islamophobia, nor an increase in any hate-related attacks against Muslims,

The examples below were collected by Noah Blum, shown in a long Twitter thread:



Had we found examples of a rise in Islamophobia, we would have simply thought they were covering their bases, but we still would have highlighted the wording, making it obvious that the Democrat leadership sent out their memo instructing the puppets of their party to use the exact phrases they preferred in order to convince people there is also been a rise of Islamophobia occurring right now.

There hasnt been, it is all one big lie.

As I see people say snarkily on social media, shows us the video or it never happened.

This is just another example that gives more credence to the assertion that the media, and Democrats (Same!) use the same exact playbook, and collude to convince Americans of fake news, and that what they are actually seeing in front of them, isnt true.



BOTTOM LINE

We and others have said, and Independent Media readers know, that the Media and the Democrat party are actually one and the same. The MSM is simply the propaganda arm of the Democrat party.

What we are seeing with increasing frequency is the both groups using the exact same playbook, where before when they did it, they tried for some type of subtlety, now they just do it blatantly.

Either that, or the existence of social media is just making it easier to see and prove with screenshots, just as video clips offer proof the media does it.

Read more at: AllNewsPipeline.com and Deception.news
(Natural News) Natural News was one of the first publications in the world to report on the lab origins of SARS-CoV-2, even when the mainstream media conspired to downplay the possibility. For over a year, the agenda-driven mainstream media suppressed the lab leak theory and labeled it conspiracy theory. Now CNN, MSNBC, the New York Times and the rest of the mainstream liars are admitting to the lab origins of covid-19 and asking questions about gain-of-function coronavirus research.

Overnight, an insane, unhinged conspiracy theory that was censored from the internet and labeled harmful disinformation suddenly became a serious and plausible possibility for which rational evidence exists. Disgraced fact-checking organizations such as PolitiFact are now removing all evidence of their phony fact checks on the subject matter. After smearing and censoring independent journalists, the fact checkers are suddenly agreeing with Natural News and other real, investigative journalists. So where are the apologies?

The Washington Post claimed the lab theory was misinformation for over a year, but now says covid accidentally escaped a Chinese lab. Even the Huffington Post called the lab theory a toxic conspiracy theory a year ago  dismissing any investigative reporting on the issue. Was this coordinated suppression of information just denialism or were these disgraced media outlets covering for their criminal friends in government? An investigation should be conducted into the reasons why these media outlets suppressed information about coronavirus engineering, which took place for many years with the intent of designing new vaccines and surveillance testing for the viruses they were engineering.

Mainstream media is a tool to cover for the criminals who funded, approved and subverted moratoriums on gain-of-function research

From the start of the covid-19 scandal, the mainstream media was used as a tool of propaganda to cover for Dr. Anthony Fauci and lie about the governments participation in unethical coronavirus gain-of-function engineering at the University of North Carolina, New Yorks EcoHealth Alliance and the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China.

Natural News, Info Wars, War Room: Pandemic and other independent media sources continued to publish investigative news reports on this serious subject matter, despite being censored, fact-checked and flagged for covid-19 misinformation. Facebook and Twitter removed any information on the lab leak and blocked the Chinese scientist who testified that COVID-19 was engineered in a lab. The mainstream media mocked the lab leak theory, even though the Trump Administration had obtained evidence of Wuhan virologists falling severely ill just before the Wuhan outbreak began. The Associated Press, NPR, and CNN were quick to mock President Trump when he revealed on May 1, 2020 that the administration had a high degree of confidence the virus escaped from a lab. Today these same mainstream media propagandists are trying to appear like they were out in front of the issue all along.

Now these disgraced entities of thought control want to maintain dominion over the lab leak narrative and be the final arbiter on what is true and false. The American majority are seeing through their games of manipulation and obfuscation. The most watched news anchor on mainstream media, Fox News Tucker Carlson, is one of the only ones who demanded an investigation into the lab origins of SARS-CoV-2.

Big Tech, mainstream media complicit in criminal conspiracy to coverup SARS-CoV-2 origins

Big Tech blocked Tucker Carlson for this, right along with the independent journalists and scientists who were pointing out the obvious. Big Tech blocked evidence showing the man-made manipulations to the RNA sequence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, manipulations that could have only been created in a laboratory. Big Tech blocked any mention of gain-of-function coronavirus research, even as some of the more clandestine, unethical virus engineering technologies became known. For example, the serial passage technique opens up the possibility that SARS-CoV-2 could have been designed in a clandestine way, as virologists experimented with gene splicing techniques that could NOT be traced because natural selection concealed each viral gene transfer.

Dr. Fauci has played dumb about coronavirus engineering, even though he funded over thirty studies on the subject matter and was personally thanked by Wuhan virologists. Fauci played dumb all along even though the NIH developed a loophole to subvert the moratorium on gain-of-function research in the US. Fauci even had to undergo a multidisciplinary, department-level pre-funding review process to subvert the moratorium on gain-of-function research. HHS documents reveal the framework by which funders gained approval to create, transfer, or use potential pandemic pathogens.

If anyone should be sounding the alarm bells of a potential lab leak of a highly infectious and lethal coronavirus strain, it should be Fauci. His dismissal of the lab origins of covid-19 is highly suspicious and reeks of a criminal coverup. After perjuring himself in a Senate hearing, Dr. Fauci is suddenly changing his tune and now believes it is possible that covid-19 came from a lab.

This authoritarian figure, who has harmed countless lives through lockdowns and forced medical experiments, was repeatedly praised by the mainstream media over the past year and half. Now that Fauci is thoroughly exposed as the godfather of the plandemic, a serious investigation should be launched into the various mainstream media organizations to find out who is covering for the criminals in the U.S. government, who is covering up for unethical vaccine development and experimentation, and who is covering for Chinas biological warfare programs.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

NaturalNews.com

NaturalNews.com

NaturalNews.com

NaturalNews.com

NaturalNews.com

NaturalNews.com

NaturalNews.com

NaturalNews.com

NaturalNews.com

NaturalNews.com

NaturalNews.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) An Oregon school board updated a policy to mandate that each classroom in the school district display a Black Lives Matter and progressive pride flag or poster.

(Article by Chrissy Clark republished from DailyWire.com)

On May 6, the Gresham-Barlow School Board in Gresham, Oregon, updated the districts Flag Displays and Salutes policy to reflect the progressive values of the board. The proposal would require the school board to provide an American flag, pride flag, and BLM flag for each classroom.

The district shall obtain and display a U.S. flag, a progressive pride flag or poster and a Black Lives Matter flag or poster of an appropriate size for each classroom, the policy reads.

Robyn Stowers, one of the more progressive school board members, insisted the board require all three flags to be the same size.

Stowers also demanded that any tribal government also be allowed to put a flag in each classroom upon request. The school board agreed that flying a flag at a local Oregon school district was not at the top of most tribes to-do lists but insisted on adding the provision anyway.

Upon request from a sovereign tribal government, a flag representing the sovereign tribal government must be displayed on, near, or within a school building during school hours, the policy reads. The location of the flag will be determined by the district in consultation with the requesting sovereign tribal government.

The board received a report from the Oregon School Board Association (OSBA) stating that there may be resistance and upset parents if the board forces teachers to fly the flags in each classroom. Another board member, Kris Howatt, cited the report and questioned whether it was worth it to force the flags on all teachers. She was told by a colleague that she was pushing white supremacy.

Watch:

Howatt: How is putting this in the classroom with teachers that are not ready with students that want to ask questions or maybe dont, how is this going to change if we say you have to do this? Anything thats done where its mandatory feels like I dont have a choice to learn and find out about it. Stower: Learning is always your choice, Kris. Weve already had these discussions and I refuse to re-educate you over and over and over again. You need to do your work.  School Board Member Amanda Orozco-Beach: This is stalling. Its pushing white supremacy. Its getting in the way of progress  We are trying to make sure that everyone is seen and heard. This policy wouldnt even be such a big deal if it wasnt for board members trying to push this and get the public involved. This is just pushing unnecessary trauma and its really inappropriate.

During the same committee meeting, the school board also reviewed the policy on the Pledge of Allegiance. The updated policy asks students to recite the Pledge of Allegiance at least once each week during and school year, recite a land acknowledgment each week, and recite the Black national anthem.

Stowers proposed that students recite the land acknowledgment immediately following the Pledge of Allegiance.

It makes things easy; it makes things consistent, and it makes things equitable, Stowers said.

The board also updated the position purpose statement of the districts superintendent. Orozco-Beach proposed that the statement rely more heavily on the boards commitment to equity.

I wanted to include that we need to have a leader that understands that public schools are inherently racist institutions and they need to be committed to collaborate and work with the board to eliminate white supremacy culture in Gresham-Barlow schools, Orozco-Beach said. Our commitment to eliminating institutional racism and I think its important that if we hire our next superintendent that they would follow those values.

Read more at: DailyWire.com and Propaganda.news
(Natural News) The state government of Queensland in Australia announced that it will not offer Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) injections using the AstraZeneca vaccine. Its decision came after health authorities in the country uncovered six more cases of blood clots linked to the vaccine candidate. Instead, the state will wait for the arrival of more vaccine doses from other manufacturers before resuming.

The vaccine made by the British drug manufacturer is still administered in the state by doctors to people above 50 years old. However, the states government said that it will not use the AstraZeneca vaccine in mass vaccination centers for inoculating Australians. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said such a mass vaccination hub similar to those in New South Wales and Victoria is being planned toward the end of 2021.

Queensland is a big state, [and] it is so decentralized. [So] much planning is happening at the moment for that final quarter of the year. [When] we have more supply [of] Pfizer [and] Moderna, [vaccination] is going to ramp up  and I know that Queenslanders are going to go out there in droves when we have all that supply ready, Palaszczuk said.

The Queensland premiers remarks followed Australian authorities discovering six new cases of blood clots connected to the AstraZeneca vaccine. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), which regulates vaccines in the Land Down Under, said on May 20 that four cases were confirmed while the other two were deemed probable. With the six new cases, Australia now has a total of 24 cases of blood clots out of the 2.1 million AstraZeneca doses administered there.

TGA continued: Overall, 21 of these [24 total] cases are considered confirmed and three are considered probable. Three of the four cases reported as probable in last weeks report have since been confirmed as [blood clots and low platelet count.] The other case remains under investigation.

The new blood clot cases were recorded from all over Australia

A 57-year old woman and a 79-year old man were the cases recorded from Victoria state. Queensland state reported an 18-year-old woman reportedly suffered from the clots. Meanwhile, authorities still sought more information about two women aged 71 and 87 who reported the adverse effects.

A 53-year-old man from South Australia  the sixth recent case  is currently in intensive care in Adelaide. The man is believed to be the states first confirmed patient who suffered blood clots and low platelet count after vaccination. South Australia Chief Public Health Officer Nicola Spurrier said the man received his first dose on May 4. He was admitted two weeks later due to severe abdominal pain.

Spurrier added that the mans case fell within the expected range of adverse reactions  about one in 100,000  given that about 150,000 AstraZeneca vaccine doses had been administered in the state. It is a rare occurrence, but because of the number of vaccines that were giving across our whole community  it was not unexpected for this to occur.

Meanwhile, Federal Deputy Chief Medical Officer Michael Kidd acknowledged the blood clots and low platelet count linked to the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. But he stresses that the chances of it happening are very small. He said: Cerebral venous thrombosis is a very rare disorder that has previously not been known to be associated with vaccination. (Related: Australian man dies of a massive BLOOD CLOT following coronavirus vaccination.)

Nevertheless, he warned of possible headaches as a side effect of the COVID-19 vaccine. People should be particularly alert to severe persistent headaches occurring four to 20 days after vaccination, Kidd said. The federal health official added that these headaches are different [from] the usual pattern of headaches and advised against using over-the-counter painkillers for them.

Australian government officials still insist on the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccines effectivity

Prime Minister Scott Morrison defended the AstraZeneca vaccine on May 20 and exhorted Australians over 50 years old to get inoculated with it. He said that most people he knew  including his wife, mother and mother-in-law  had been vaccinated with it alongside many others.

A day before Morrison made his comments, Health and Aged Care Minister Greg Hunt suggested that people could wait for the Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines to arrive in case they did not want the AstraZeneca vaccine. Hunt himself received the AstraZeneca vaccine in early March alongside former Prime Minister Julia Gillard. (Related: Aussie Health Minister Greg Hunt hospitalized after getting the AstraZeneca coronavirus jab.)

Back in January, Australias Federal Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly stood by the British companys vaccine. The AstraZeneca vaccine is effective, safe, and  high-quality. It will be available as soon as the TGA gives its tick, he said. The Australian regulator granted provisional approval to the vaccine in February 2021.

Australian Labor Party Deputy Leader Richard Marles ultimately insisted the government should not be encouraging people to wait. Its really important that people over the age of 50 get vaccinated with [the] AstraZeneca [vaccine] right now, he said.

Visit VaccineDamage.news to read more reports about the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine and blood clots linked to it.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

Twitter.com

FT.com
(Natural News) The question of who is to blame when a fully autonomous vehicle crashes is holding up legislation that the auto industry says it needs to advance.

In a normal crash involving only human-operated vehicles, its much more straightforward who is to blame. The vehicle or vehicles involved have human drivers after all.

If another driver hits you, its clear who the driver is, Sarah Rooney, senior director of federal and regulatory affairs for the American Association for Justice, said. Its the human being.

But when an autonomous, self-driving car is involved, who to blame is much less clear cut. Instead of the driver, the fault may instead lie with the manufacturer and the software. But it may also like with the vehicles owner if they havent properly updated its software. In addition, should the manufacturer be at fault, a victim may seek to sue under product liability standards, as with a normal car.

Legislation clarifying liability issues stuck in Congress

Fully autonomous, self-driving vehicles are currently still in the beta stage. But issues have held up legislation that would allow automakers to test and sell tens of thousands of them  something the industry says it needs to develop and eventually market the technology to consumers.

One bill to do that did sail through the House several years ago, but it was bogged down in the Senate over questions of liability.

Earlier this month, a move to merge the bill with must-pass legislation faltered over an initiative by some automakers to include language meant to prevent consumers from suing or forming class-action cases. Instead, consumers would have to submit disputes to binding arbitration. While this isnt usually the case with automobiles, it is more common with technology products.

But the move was pulled on the even of a committee vote after facing stiff resistance from safety groups and trial lawyers, both influential among Senate Democrats. Supports have said that theyre working to address the liability issues in the hopes of moving the legislation forward this year.

Crashes raise importance of liability legislation

These liability issues arent just theoretical. Theyve been highlighted over the years thanks to a number of high-profile incidents and crashes involved self-driving vehicles.

In 2018, a self-driving SUV being tested by Uber was involved in a crash in Tempe, Arizona that killed a woman who was jaywalking. During the investigation into the crash, there were attempts to shift the blame away from the vehicle and its operator  Ubers test vehicles ran with a human supervisor onboard  to the victim, claiming that they had jumped out suddenly into the vehicles path. But videos released by the police later showed that the woman was more than halfway across the road and walking slowly along with her bicycle.

A National Transportation and Safety Board (NTSB) investigation later ruled that the system design for the vehicle  a modified Volvo SUV that Uber was using to test the technology  didnt include a consideration for jaywalking pedestrians.

The fatal crash amplified calls for regulations on the testing of self-driving vehicles.

We need smart, strong safety rules in place for self-driving cars to reach their life-saving potential, Ethan Douglas, senior policy analyst for Consumer Reports, stated to The Associated Press.

Meanwhile, Tesla has seen a handful of crashes of its vehicles equipped with its Autopilot  a system that provides a level of automation, but still far below the capabilities needed for full self-driving.

In these cases, Tesla has pointed to the fact that its Autopilot isnt a fully autonomous system and that it still requires drivers to pay attention at all times, keeping their hands on the steering wheel.

But many have pointed out that the way Tesla promotes its technology, calling them Autopilot and Full Self-driving could mislead consumers, with fatal results. The most recent of these was a crash on May 5 of a Tesla Model 3 driver in Fontana, California. Video from the drivers apparent Tiktok shows him praising the automakers full self-driving features and driving with his hands off the wheel. (Related: Video proves that Tesla autopilot can get you killed.)

Tesla faces lawsuits, lawyers lament lack of legislation

Tesla has since faced a number of lawsuits, both in the U.S. and abroad, in regards to crashes involved its Autopilot. Last year, a German court ruled that the company misled consumers on the capabilities of its automated driving systems. As a result, Teslas German business unit was banned from including the phrases full potential for autonomous driving and autopilot inclusive in its marketing materials.

While celebrating the victory, a lawyer for the Center for Protection Against Unfair Competition  the non-profit that filed the lawsuit  lamented the lack of legislation for autonomous driving.

A legal framework for autonomous inner-city driving doesnt even exist yet in Germany, said Andreas Ottofuelling, one of the lawyers representing the group, in a press statement. And other functions arent working yet as advertised.

Follow RoboCars.news for more on the issues plaguing self-driving vehicles.

Sources include:

Bloomberg.com

NPR.org

Driving.ca

CNBC.com
(Natural News) A previously undisclosed government document claims that three researchers from the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) who worked on the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) became seriously ill in November 2019, right when the pandemic first started.

According to new mainstream media reports, these three individuals got so sick that they had to be rushed to the hospital for treatment. This, some say, suggests that the Chinese Virus escaped from the petri dish, so to speak, and infected those who were tampering with it to create a bioweapon.

These fresh details go beyond a State Department report that was released under former President Donald Trump that indicated Chinese lab workers fell ill in autumn 2019 with symptoms consisted with both Covid-19 and common seasonal illness.

It has now been revealed that three researchers fell ill specifically in November, and these details came forward right before a meeting of the World Health Organization (WHO) at which it was discussed what the next phase of the investigation into the origin of the virus will be.

Both current and former officials familiar with intelligence about the lab situation still have conflicting viewpoints as to the strength of this new assessment. One of them indicated that it is potentially significant, but that further investigation is needed to verify it.

Another feels as though the evidence is strong and of exquisite quality.

It was very precise, this person indicated. What it didnt tell you was exactly why they got sick.

Communist China says Wuhan Flu originated at Fort Detrick military base in Maryland

The significance of the new report primarily centers around the date of when the three researchers got sick. November 2019 is considered by many epidemiologists and virologists to be when the plandemic was first launched and began to circulate around the central Chinese city of Wuhan.

The first reported case of the Wuhan Flu originated in Beijing where Chinese Communist Party (CCP) officials say a man got sick on Dec. 8, 2019. Just a few months later, the corporate media here in the West began warning about Chinese Virus cases coming to the United States via cruise ships.

Because the WIV was working with bat coronaviruses at the time, some have speculated that perhaps a genetically modified (GMO) variant escaped the level-four biosafety lab and ended up circulating in public. There is still no definitive proof of this, though, as the virus has still never even been fully isolated.

Communist China, meanwhile, is scoffing at the idea that the Chinese Virus originated in a Chinese laboratory. CCP officials claim that the U.S. continues to hype the lab leak theory without evidence.

Is it actually concerned about tracing the source or trying to divert attention? Chinas foreign ministry stated about the U.S.

The Biden regime has thus far refused to comment on the new intelligence, though it has claimed that all technically credible theories about the origin of the virus should be investigated by the WHO and other international experts.

We continue to have serious questions about the earliest days of the Covid-19 pandemic, including its origins within the Peoples Republic of China, a spokesman for the National Security Council is quoted as saying.

Were not going to make pronouncements that prejudge an ongoing WHO study into the source of SARS-CoV-2. As a matter of policy we never comment on intelligence issues.

Communist China is also suggesting that the Chinese Virus actually originated at the Fort Detrick military base in Maryland, the state where Fauci lives. The regime is calling on the WHO to launch a full investigation into this theory as well.

More related news about the latest revelations concerning the Chinese Virus can be found at Pandemic.news.

Sources for this article include:

MSN.com

NaturalNews.com
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Turkish fisherman in the Sea of Marmara have had a problem for months: they can't catch fish.

This is because a thick, sticky material known as "sea snot" is floating on the top of the water, blocking their nets and raising concerns about the safety of fish caught in the inland sea.

According to scientists, foul-smelling mucus is not a new phenomenon, but rising water temperatures may exacerbate it due to global warming. Pollution is also to blame, including agricultural and raw sewage overflow.

Sea Snot

High levels of nitrogen and phosphorus in the Sea of Marmara are causing an increase of phytoplankton communities that exude "sea snot," according to the Guardian and other Turkish news sites. Though mucus is not inherently hazardous, it can provide a breeding ground for dangerous germs and bacteria such as E. coli. When it develops a layer on top of the water's surface, it can start a chain reaction that prevents fish from breathing, resulting in huge die-offs, which in turn causes oxygen levels to drop, choking other types of marine life.

According to Turkish daily Cumhuriyet, marine researchers spotted the mucus blanketing corals on the sea bottom approximately 100 feet below the water's surface in April.

Related Article: Over 27,000 Barrels that Possibly Contains Harmful DDT Found in California Ocean



Worsening Situation

The situation has grown more difficult to ignore in recent weeks as Istanbul's shoreline has begun to resemble a beige carpet. Still, fishermen who rely on the water for a living have been warning for months. One man told Cumhuriyet that he hasn't been able to work since January because mucus has rendered his nets worthless.

A diver who makes a profession hunting sea snails told Turkey's state-run Anadolu Agency that he had lost most of his earnings underwater due to low visibility. That crabs and sea horses were dying as a result of the sticky mucus blocking their gills.

Sea snot was first discovered in Turkey in 2007. However, it appears to have been a recurring problem in the Mediterranean Sea since the 18th century, according to zgur Bayt, a hydrobiology lecturer at Ondokuz Mays University. The frequency with which it currently appears along Turkey's coast is "not normal," he added.

Affected by Climate Change

Scientists believe climate change is a factor since phytoplankton thrives in warmer seas. Untreated garbage and agricultural runoff, however, flow straight into the Sea of Marmara, and cutting down on those sources of pollution would help to cut nitrogen and phosphorus levels, according to experts.

Actions Taken

Istanbul officials said earlier this month that they were working with the Turkish government and Bandrma Onyedi Eylul University to find a solution to the situation, which might include bringing in boats to dredge the seabed.

Concerns

There are several concerns that the unattractive mucus would deter tourists, and some have demanded that the government do more.

Humans have "betrayed this world's most beautiful sea," according to Ismet Cigit, a columnist for the newspaper Ses Kocaeli, by permitting chemical storage facilities, petrol tanks, factories, and other industrial structures to be developed along the shoreline.

He said, "Clearly, there are no deterrent repercussions for those who contaminate the sea," adding, "Marmara is dying."

Also Read: Carbon Absorption is the Key to Surviving Drastic Climate Changes, Study Shows

For more environmental news, don't forget to follow Nature World News!
NEW CANAAN  Police say a vehicle was snatched and others were entered in town this week.

A Whitney Avenue resident called police Wednesday morning to report that a Land Rover had been stolen from a driveway, New Canaan Police said in a release.

The owner stated the vehicle was left unlocked but didnt think the keys were left inside, police said. However, the owners wallet, bag, credit cards, license, and laptop were in the car when it was stolen.

The vehicles owner used an app to figure out the whereabouts of the vehicle, police said. It was recovered in Bridgeport, according to police.

Upon recovering the vehicle, the owner noticed the following items were missing from the vehicle: Wallet, bag and laptop with a combined value of $700, according to police.

Police headed to Waveny Park that same day, getting dispatched around 5:22 p.m. to investigate a report of a vandalized vehicle, according to police. The owner saw a smashed rear passenger side window when they came back to their vehicle but no items had been taken, police said.

Not long after, police were sent to New Canaan High School around 5:37 p.m. to investigate a larceny from a motor vehicle, police said.

When the owner came back to their vehicle after being at a field in the area, the vehicle had a shattered window on the passenger side and a bag was missing, according to police.

Police said people should make sure to have their vehicles locked, their keys with them and their valuables secured.
Editor, Advertiser:

The weekend before Memorial Day finds many war veterans distributing poppies in order to honor the ultimate sacrifice of our nations veterans. In New Canaan, members of our local Veterans of Foreign War (VFW) Post 653 will distribute poppies in front of ACME Market, Walter Stewarts Market and Dunkin Donuts. The significance of the poppy in honoring our nations war dead is traced to World War I.

From the battlefields of World War I, weary soldiers brought home the memory of a barren landscape transformed by wild poppies, red as the blood that had soaked the soil. By that miracle poppy became a symbol of the sacrifice of lives in war and represented the hope that none had died in vain. The poppy has continued to bloom for the casualties wars, its petals of paper bound together for veterans by veterans, reminding America each year that the men and women who have served and died for their country deserve to be remembered.

Although poppies have a long history of being used to honor the dead in both Greek and Roman mythology, the poppy, as a memorial flower to the war dead, can be traced to a single individual, Moina Michael. She was so moved by Lt. Col. McCrae's poem, "In Flanders Fields," that she wrote a response:

. . . the blood of heroes never dies

But lends a luster to the red

Of the flower that blooms above the dead

In Flanders' Fields.

On impulse, she bought a bouquet of poppies - all that New York City's Wanamaker's Department Store had - and handed them to businessmen meeting at the New York YMCA where she worked. She asked them to wear the poppy as a tribute to the fallen. That was November 1918. World War I was over, but America's sons would rest forever "in Flanders' Fields." Later she would spearhead a campaign that would result in the adoption of the poppy as the national symbol of sacrifice.

This Memorial Day, honor our war dead by wearing a poppy proudly and remember the grave sacrifice many have made while fighting for the freedom we all revere.

Respectfully,

Leon Krolikowski,

Member, Post 653, New Canaan VFW
On May 31, Memorial Day, we honor those veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice by giving their lives for our great county. Memorial Day honors their service and sacrifice. Nearly 850 Veterans are buried in Lakeview Cemetery.

As Memorial Day approaches, it's a good time to remind the patriotic citizens of New Canaan to be aware of phony organizations who "solicit" on behalf of Veterans. Several years ago, the late Colonel Peter Langenus, U.S. Army (ret.), the then Commander of New Canaan's Veterans of Foreign War Post 653 received a telephone call from a shopper who had been approached for a monetary donation in front of a store in New Canaan.

The shopper thought that the solicitor's military uniform seemed to be a mismatch of different uniforms and different branches of the service. She asked Colonel Langenus to confirm the status of the organization soliciting funds. Colonel Langenus went to the store and confirmed the shoppers suspicions. The solicitor was wearing a hodge-podge of outdated uniforms and was relying on the goodness of New Canaan residents to donate monies to him. The organization on behalf of whom the solicitor was working is an organization over 100 miles from New Canaan. Many of these solicitors are not Veterans, and are not volunteers, but are a paid a percentage of what they collect from the New Canaan Community.

As Memorial Day approaches, we expect more bogus organizations and individuals to contact unsuspecting Town residents who assume that they are donating to a legitimate charity. The New Canaan Post 653 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) solicits for funds just twice a year, before Memorial Day and before Christmas.

On the weekend before Memorial Day, you may see New Canaan VFW members soliciting donations in front of Dunkin Donuts, in front of Walter Stewarts Market and in front of Acme Market. These men will wear hats that identify them as New Canaan VFW members. The funds collected all stay in New Canaan and are used only for legitimate purposes such as flags placed on Veterans gravesites just before Memorial Day and Christmas Wreaths placed on Veterans gravesites each December. Know that you can trust the members of our local VFW.

Memorial Day is prime time for bogus charities to claim they are benefiting our nations veterans. Scammers often invent authentic organizations to solicit funds. Before donating, check the charitys name and reputation at www.charitynavigator.org. If you are unsure of whether an organization is a legitimate charity, please contact our department at 203-594-3500 or contact me directly at 203-594-3512, before you donate and we will help you make an informed decision.

This Memorial Day lets honor those whom made the ultimate sacrifice, and not line the pockets of scammers. Contributing to legitimate charities like our local VFW helps our Veterans-especially the hundreds of Veterans that live in New Canaan. Lets celebrate the lives and legacies of those Veterans we have lost, lost but never forgotten and always revered.

This years parade is the only parade in recent memory during which Colonel Langenus did not lead our towns tribute. Lets honor his legacy, service and sacrifice by ensuring this years parade is a solemn tribute to our nations fallen heroes.
New Castle, PA (16103)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 84F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

A few clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 62F. Winds light and variable.


YMCA opens cafe and soft play in Norwich YMCA opens cafe and soft play in Norwich

A brand-new cafe and soft play area is set to open in Norwich on May 28 run by YMCA Norfolk in its new community hub on Aylsham Road near the city centre. Harriet King from YMCA Norfolk describes whats on offer.

Just a five-minute drive from the city centre, Williams Kitchen Cafe and Explorers Soft Play also has a nursery on site  so that the little ones can learn and play while you enjoy a bite to eat with a friend.



Featuring a modern, spacious indoor cafe, we also offer outdoor seating so that you can enjoy the fresh air with your coffee.



Youll find something for everyone on our tasty yet affordable menu  which not only includes breakfast, lunch and a childrens menu, but also a range of delicious gluten-free and vegan options. If its just a coffee and cake you fancy, we have a superb range of fresh traybakes and top-quality coffee available throughout the day.

Our Story

Our cafe is named after the amazing George Williams; founder of YMCA, which is the oldest and largest youth charity in the world. Today, YMCA has grown to serve more than 65 million people in 120 countries  we are extremely proud to be a part of our amazing heritage. In its honour we wanted to create a cafe that not only served the local Norwich community with tasty food and delicious hot drinks, but also wanted to create a space where both adults and children could have a fantastic day out.

Whats on offer

Sessions at our soft play start every two hours from 10am, 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm. Tickets are available to purchase at Williams Kitchen counter; entry is 4 for over 4s, 3 for under 4s and 1 for under 1s (or free with an older paying sibling).



We also offer kids party packages which includes a two-hour party, use of the soft play, party bags, cold finger buffet, and unlimited water and squash. All for just 9 per child (or 7 week days and term time) - we just ask that you bring a minimum of 10 people and a maximum of 15.



Our party times are 12pm, 2pm and 4pm during weekends and school holidays.



Our cold finger buffet includes a selection of sandwiches, salad sticks, fruit, crisps, sausages/ sausage rolls and ice cream. Meanwhile, for just an extra 2.75 per child, you can upgrade to a hot buffet which includes fish fingers, chicken goujons, veg nuggets, pizza slices, chips, salad sticks, sausages/sausage roll and ice cream  so that your little ones are guaranteed to go home with a full belly!



Meanwhile parents can chill out next door in Williams Kitchen  where they can watch their kids explore and play while they enjoy a meal from our great selection of hot and cold food  from cafe classics such as fish and chips, mac and cheese and veggie chilli, to smaller bites such as jacket potatoes and ciabatta paninis.



We also have a Costa Coffee on site  which is half price before 10.30am, so if you need a pick-me-up while dropping the children at nursery, you can grab a take-away cappuccino using Costas signature coffee blend, or meet a friend for a catch-up in our brand new cafe booths or sofa snug corners (or enjoy the fresh air and sunshine on our picnic benches).

When are we open?

Monday  Friday 8am  6pm

Saturday 10am  6pm

Sunday 10am  4pm



We take the safety of our customers and staff extremely seriously, and with social distancing, PPE, hand sanitiser stations and daily cleaning, you can guarantee feeling safe at both the cafe and soft play.

Find out more
Newburyport, MA (01950)

Today

Cloudy with light rain this morning...then becoming partly cloudy. High 71F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

A few clouds. Low 57F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.
Ecuador has confirmed that a huge tortoise discovered in the Galapagos Islands in 2019 belongs to a species that was thought to be extinct a century ago.

In an effort to rescue the giant tortoises, the Galapagos national park is planning an expedition to find more of them.

Expedition

During a joint expedition between the Galapagos National Park and the Galapagos Conservancy two years ago, the turtle was discovered on Fernandina Island, one of the archipelago's youngest and most pristine islands.

Yale University scientists later recognized it as the Chelonoidis phantasticus species, which had been thought to be extinct for more than a century.

"The results of genetic research and the respective DNA comparison that was done with a specimen collected in 1906 were released by Yale University," the Galapagos Park stated in a statement.

Related Article: Why is the Galapagos Archipelago Extremely Ecologically Rich?



Tortoises

Many kinds of tortoises reside with flamingos, boobies, albatrosses, and cormorants, a family of aquatic birds, on the Galapagos Islands, which served as the inspiration for British scientist Charles Darwin's theory of species evolution in the 19th century.

It also protects a huge number of endangered species of flora and animals.

"It was thought to be extinct more than a century ago! On his Twitter account, the environment minister, Gustavo Manrique, stated, "We have reconfirmed its presence."

According to statistics from the Galapagos national park, the current number of giant tortoises of diverse kinds is believed to be 60,000.

Lonesome George

One famous tortoise was known as "Lonesome George," a male Pinta Island tortoise who died in 2012 without leaving any progeny and was the least known species.

Discovering the Female

During a 2019 excursion to Fernandina Island, the lone female was discovered.

Scientists compared samples from the female to the bones of a male from the Chelonoidis phantasticus species to confirm the relationship.

The last time the species has been seen was in 1906.

Related Article: "Extinct" Deadly Sea Snake Allegedly Found in the Ocean's "Twilight Zone"



Studying the Species

Scientists from the California Academy of Sciences discovered the discovery while sailing to the Galapagos Islands to comprehensively assess the islands' flora and fauna.

They transferred the male specimen to the academy's herpetology department, and geneticists from Yale University used samples to confirm, 115 years later, that the female discovered in 2019 is definitely a Chelonoidis phantasticus known as Fernandina gigantic tortoise.

The female Fernandina giant tortoise, thought to be over 100 years old, is housed at a Santa Cruz Island breeding center.

On Fernandina Island, scientists discovered prints and feces that they believe suggest that the species still exists in the wild.

Danny Rueda, the Director of the Galapagos National Park, has announced that an expedition to Fernandina Island would be conducted in the hopes of finding further members of the same species.

Also Read: Darwin's Arch, a Rock formation Named After the British Scientist, Collapsed

For the most recent updates from the animal kingdom, don't forget to follow Nature World News!
Bismah Malik By

Express News Service

BENGALURU: A day after the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology sought the status of compliance by social media companies with the 2021 IT rules, Twitter said it's planning to advocate for changes in these regulations.

The micro-blogging site said it is concerned by recent events regarding its employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people it serves.

It had marked several tweets by ruling BJP leaders on alleged strategy document of opposition to target the government over COVID as containing 'manipulated media', which prompted the police to visit its offices late on Monday.

Opposition Congress has disputed the document, calling it fake.

The company said it will "strive" to comply with applicable law in India to keep its service available in the country but will "advocate for changes to elements of these regulations that inhibit free, open public conversation.

"We, alongside many in civil society in India and around the world, have concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police in response to enforcement of our global Terms of Service, as well as with core elements of the new IT Rules. We plan to advocate for changes to elements of these regulations that inhibit free, open public conversation. We will continue our constructive dialogue with the Indian government and believe it is critical to adopt a collaborative approach, Twitter said in a statement.

ALSO READ: Twitter's allegation of 'intimidation tactics' by police totally baseless, says government

The social network reiterated its commitment to India as a vital market, but criticised new IT rules and regulations that it said "inhibit free, open public conversation."

"In the new digital rules, social media companies like Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter have been asked to identify within 36 hours the origin of a flagged message as well as conduct additional due diligence, including the appointment of a chief compliance officer, nodal contact person and resident grievance officer."

"With respect to one of the clauses of Information Technology (Intermediaries guidelines) Rules, 2021 which seek the appointment of compliance/ nodal officers by the tech firms, Twitter said it's concerned about the government's requirement to make its compliance officer criminally liable for tweets, monitor the platform proactively, and the government's blanket authority to seek information about Twitter customers."

ALSO READ: No likely ban for Facebook, Twitter and Instagram in India, may lose social intermediary status

"It is the collective responsibility of elected officials, industry, and civil society to safeguard the interests of the public, the tech firm said. It added that the company was served another non-compliance notice from the government for not restricting certain tweets in India that the government had asked it to restrict in February 2021.

The company said it is deeply committed to India, and that its service has proven vital for public conversation and is a source of support during the pandemic.

The US based firm said that it has already communicated to the Indian government that the content which was flagged by the state authorities constituted free speech under Indian and international laws.

However, under Section 69A of the IT laws, the company is being forced to comply and not doing the same poses risks to its employees in India, it added.

On Wednesday, Facebook-owned messaging service Whatsapp filed a plea before the Delhi High Court alleging the Centre would be invading the privacy of users through the tracker of originator clause under the fresh IT guidelines.

The IT ministry responded by saying it has no intention of violating user privacy and the clause is applicable for content that threatens the countrys sovereignty and security as well as incites serious offences.

According to Twitter, the company is particularly concerned about the requirement to make an individual (the compliance officer) criminally liable for content on the platform, the requirements for proactive monitoring, and the blanket authority to seek information about its users.

This, it said, represents dangerous overreach that is inconsistent with open, democratic principles.

The microblogging platform said it was recently served with a non-compliance notice and has withheld a portion of the content identified in the blocking order under its 'Country Withheld Content policy'.

The content identified was originally reported to Twitter in the blocking orders issued since February 2021.

Twitter maintained that the content reported in the original order constitutes protected, legitimate free speech, under Indian and international law, and that it has formally communicated this to the government.

ALSO READ | New rules designed to prevent misuse of social media; WhatsApp users have nothing to fear: IT minister Prasad

It added that the platform has not taken any action on verified accounts that consist of news media entities, journalists, activists and politicians, in line with its principles of defending protected speech and freedom of expression.

Twitter argued that the escalated content constituted legitimate free speech and yet, the platform was compelled to withhold in response to a non-compliance notice as not doing so poses penal consequences with many risks for Twitter employees.

The platform said it has been in regular dialogue with the IT Ministry to explain the nature of the content and why it should continue to be available on the service.

The company has urged the Ministry of Electronics and IT to publish these standard operating protocols on procedural aspects of compliance for public consultation and has sought a minimum of three months extension in order to implement the rules.

Twitter said it continues to accept grievances from users and law enforcement via its existing grievance redressal channel.

(With PTI Inputs)
Sunitha Natti By

Express News Service

The RBI, which froze printing of Rs 2,000 notes in the past two years, seems to be consciously pulling out pink notes from circulation.

In FY21, Rs 57,757 crore worth Rs 2,000 notes have gone out of circulation, going by the latest annual report released Thursday.

If in FY20, the value of the pink notes stood at Rs 5,47,952 crore, it fell to Rs 4,90,195 crore in FY21.

In other words, the highest-denomination notes worth Rs 57,757 crore were pulled out of the system in the past one year, though it's unclear whether it was due to counterfeits or other reasons. In fact, such purging has becoming an annual routine since FY19, when the central bank pulled out notes worth Rs 14,400 crore.

As of March 2021, the highest-denomination notes accounted for 17.3% of overall banknotes in circulation in FY21, down from 22.6% in FY20. In value terms, of the total Rs 28.26 lakh crore currency in circulation, Rs 2,000 notes comprised Rs 4.9 lakh crore as against Rs 5.47 lakh crore in FY20.

Similarly, the volume of notes too fell from 2,739 million pieces in FY20 to 2,451 million pieces in FY21, translating to a de-growth of 10%. In contast, the Rs 1,000 note, which was until 2016 the highest denomination, never recorded even flat growth either in volume or value since 2001, when it was re-introduced.

On the other hand, the central bank ramped up printing of Rs 500 notes to keep up with the demand for cash all through last fiscal. It now accounts for 68.4% of total banknotes in circulation, up from 60.8% just a year before.

Together, the share of Rs 500 and Rs 2,000 notes in value terms accounted for 85.7% as of March 2021 compared to 83.4% over the previous year.

According to the report, FY21 witnessed a higher than average increase in banknotes in circulation primarily due to precautionary holding of cash by the public due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its prolonged continuance. The value of total banknotes in circulation increased by 16.8% and 7.2% respectively in FY21 as against an increase of 14.7% and 6.6% respectively in FY20. In all, the RBI spent Rs 4,012 crore printing notes and coins as against Rs 4,378 crore a year before.

The Rs 2,000 note had an important purpose to ease the shortage of money supply following demonetisation. Now, that supply may have reached a level that the central bank is uncomfortable with, as high-value notes are easier to hoard. Hence, it is purging higher denominations and printing more lower denominations including Rs 500 and Rs 200.
S Lalitha By

Express News Service

BENGALURU: Thanks to the handsome compensation paid, Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation has managed to acquire most of the land it needs for the upcoming Airport line. But one parcel of government land, running into 20,235 square metres (five acres) is stuck, as a woman claims it to be her family property. BMRCL requires this land for the Shettygere depot, which will come up near the trumpet flyover of the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA). The 38.44-km Phase 2B line from KR Puram to KIA will have 17 stations which was approved by the Centre last month. Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa has fixed September 2025 as the deadline.

A senior BMRCL official told TNIE, We have already acquired 18 acres of land for the depot. But the woman, Madhumati Shantaram, claims that five acres of the government property was given to her family and she must be compensated for it. But there are no records in the tahsildar office to substantiate her claim, and BMRCL wants to consider it as government land. She claims that the land was given to her husband by the government in 1970, If it is proved to be her property, BMRCL has to pay Rs 90 crore, as it pays Rs 18 crore per acre as per the higher compensation mandated by the Karnataka Land Acquisition Act 2013. The matter is now pending with the Special Deputy Commissioner.

The official said that the line requires 3,13,357 sqm of land, of which 2,91,470 sqm has been acquired and handed over to the engineering department for works. A total of 21,887 sqm is yet to be acquired. Along with this piece of land in dispute, the rest amounts to over two acres from a few individuals who are ready to give their land but are not able to collect their compensation due to the lockdown, the official said. The estimated daily ridership on the Airport line will be 4.33 lakh in 2025.
By Express News Service

BENGALURU: In the ongoing probe into the alleged irregularities in allotting beds to COVID patients, the Central Crime Branch (CCB) police have arrested two more persons including a youth working as a Helpline staffer in the Covid War Room of BBMP South Zone.

Varun S (20) and his friend Yashwanth Kumar M (21), a resident of Banashankari III Stage, have been arrested.

Police said that Varun was working as a Helpline staffer to facilitate beds for COVID-19 patients. It was found that he collected the contact details of patients and their family members and passed them on to his friend Yashwanth Kumar.

ALSO READ: Bengaluru private hospital booked for denying admission to Covid patient

"Yashwanth contacted the patients and their family members and told them he will arrange a bed and demanded money. The duo was arrested on Wednesday and are being questioned to ascertain from how many people they have received money for arranging beds," Joint Commissioner of Police (Crime) Sandeep Patil said.

The accused were nabbed while trying to convince a patient that they will arrange a bed in return for money, the police added. With this, the number of people arrested in the case has gone up to 11. The police had earlier arrested doctors, staff of private hospitals and middlemen including a woman. The police, on Tuesday, had arrested Babu, a close associate of a BJP MLA from Bengaluru. Further investigations are on.
By Express News Service

CHENNAI: Chief Minister MK Stalin on Wednesday ordered an increase in solatium given to kin of journalists to Rs 10 lakh and incentive given to working journalists to Rs 5,000. According to a government release, to honour dedicated services of journalists, including those working for print and visual media, the Chief Minister has ordered to raise the solatium given to the kin of journalists who lost their lives to Covid-19 to Rs 10 lakh from the existing Rs 5 lakh.

Similarly, the incentive for working journalists has been increased from Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,000. Accredited journalists those who are given identity cards and bus passes from district administration can avail of the benefits. Besides, the Chief Minister has urged the journalists to discharge their duties with utmost care and safety.

CPC thanks Stalin

Chennai Press Club Joint Secretary Bharathy Tamizhan thanked Chief Minister MK Stalin for enhancing the incentive for journalists from Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000 and financial assistance to families of accredited journalists who lose their lives to Covid-19 to Rs 10 lakh.

In a statement on Wednesday, Bharathy Tamizhan requested to include all working journalists in availing the benefits announced by the Tamil Nadu government. While appreciating the decision to issue Rs 10 lakh as financial compensation, he sought that it be revised to Rs 25 lakh considering the meagre livelihoods of many journalists.

Rs 10 lakh

Solatium given to the kin of journalists who lose their lives to Covid-19 increased to Rs 10 lakh from existing Rs 5 lakh
By PTI

MUMBAI: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Thursday told the Bombay High Court that till May 9, around 12,000 children have got infected with COVID-19 in the city.

BMC's advocate, senior counsel Anil Sakhre told a bench of Justices Amjad Sayyad and G S Kulkarni that 17 children have died due to the virus in the city so far.

The high court sought to know from the civic body what was being done to ensure that children are provided timely and adequate treatment.

Sakhre told the high court that the BMC has upgraded the health infrastructure in the city to prepare for the imminent third wave of the pandemic.

He said that the state had made special arrangements to treat children affected by COVID-19.

Only two children in the city were currently undergoing hospital treatment for the infection, he added.

"We have kept separate beds, gave adequate facilities to treat children," Sakhre told the high court.

The bench, which was hearing a bunch of public interest litigations seeking proper management of issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic, asked if the BMC had also made arrangements for the safety of the caregivers or parents accompanying such children.

"Yes, we make safety arrangements for the parents or caregivers to stay in the hospital with the children whenever required. They (parents/caregivers) will also need to be vaccinated," Sakhre said.

He said that 12 per cent of the BMC's annual budget was spent on improving the health infrastructure in the city.

The bench said, "Last time, during the May 12 hearing, 11,000 children in the city had been affected. Now that number has increased significantly. What is being done to ensure children are provided timely and adequate treatment?" The high court reiterated that all municipal bodies across the state must replicate the BMC's model on tackling the pandemic.

The court also asked the Maharashtra government why BMC chief Iqbal Singh Chahal hadn't conducted a video conference with commissioners of other municipal bodies and shared the "Mumbai Model.

"Our only anxiety is the successful Mumbai Model should reach to all corporations in Maharashtra," the high court said.

It will continue hearing the PILs on June 2.
By Express News Service

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The health department has included the service of more speciality doctors for its tele-medicine facility called E-Sanjeevani. The doctors treating respiratory problems, skin problems, palliative care, problems with ear-nose-throat and dental problems would be available everyday from 9 am to 1 pm.

OP for eye and blood disorders would be available from Monday to Saturday 9 am to 1 pm. The OP for bone issues would be on Sunday and Friday, from 9 am to 1 pm. The OP for heart problems would be on Friday from 9 am to 1 pm while the OP for muscles and joints problem (Polymyalgia rheumatica) would be on Tuesday and Thursday from 4 pm to 6 pm. An OP for diseases affecting children by Kozhikode Medical College would be held from Monday to Saturday between 9 am to 1 pm. People who approach hospital for follow-up treatment can also utilise the facility, said Health Minister Veena George.

According to the health department, as many as 2,000 people were found to be using the service in a day. So far 1.5 lakh people have utilised the tele-medicine facility. Public can access the website https://esanjeevaniopd.in or download the mobile application from Google Play Store to consult doctors via video conferencing. The prescription can be downloaded after consultation, said a statement. The DISHA helplines are: 1056, 0471 2552056.
Shilajit Mitra By

Express News Service

A curious casting decision animates the release of Maharani. In the new show, which drops tomorrow on SonyLIV, Huma Qureshi plays an illiterate homemaker whos made the Chief Minister of Bihar. Largely fictionalized by creator Subhash Kapoor and his team of writers, the series is inspired by the story of Rabri Devi, the three-time former Chief Minister of the state. This makes Sohum Shah, who plays Humas onscreen husband, the unlikely stand-in for Lalu Prasad Yadav.

Granted, Sohum has played characters from diverse regions before, from a Maharashtrian in Tumbbad to a Gujarati in Simran and The Big Bull. Still, its a little hard to reconcile the lanky and soft-voiced actor with the portly grandee of Northern politics. Theres no direct reference for my character, Sohum clarifies when we mention the mismatch. I watched videos of Lalu Prasad Yadav but also other politicians like Nitish Kumar. Its a mixture of different figures. Its a big, layered part actually.

Though set in Bihar, Maharani was shot between Bhopal and Mumbai. Sohum, who is from Ganganagar in Rajasthan, says he wanted to visit Bihar but couldnt. Im from a small town in the north so I understand the basic diction of the place. Moreover, our writers and director Karan Sharma helped me figure out the character and the world.

Maharani is Sohums first collaboration with Huma. The two used to visit the same gym as newcomers in Mumbai. Back then, we had a slightly different perception of each other. I knew her as the actress from Gangs of Wasseypur. We got to interact closely on Maharani. Shes a fine actor and a lot of fun to work with. At home since the new lockdown, Sohum is thrilled for his second release of the year (after The Big Bull). Previously, he had appeared in a smaller role in the Netflix series Bard of Blood (2019).

I think the reach of OTT content is uncontested, the actor says. Im of the mind that if The Big Bull had been released in theatres it would not have been seen so widely. People who never watched movies, people who are in their 40s and 50s even they have started streaming web shows. Its a great time for actors because we have a lot more opportunities now. As a producer, Sohum is assembling an anthology of ten horror movies. Hes also a part of Reema Kagtis upcoming Amazon series Fallen. Im playing a cop in that show so that was a joy, Sohum says. We hope to release it by the end of this year or early next year.
According to Dominic Cummings, the government's plan for dealing with solar flares is "completely hopeless." If a significant solar flare occurs, we will be in a worse position than we are with COVID-19.

According to Boris Johnson's former principal advisor, the government's strategy to cope with solar flares is "absolutely hopeless." With the Sun's power capable of knocking out satellite technology, a massive solar flare is a matter of when not if.

Dangers of Solar Flares

The National Grid is also at risk from extreme solar flares.

Conducting rocks can conduct the energy into the Earth, overloading the National Grid and causing power outages across the United Kingdom.

Mr. Cummings criticized the government's lack of preparedness today, alleging that it lacks a culture of consulting outside experts.

Despite the fact that solar flares were included in the National Risk Assessment in 2011, Mr. Cummings told the Science and Technology and Health and Social Care Committees today that nothing is being done to prepare.

"There isn't a culture of consulting outside experts," he remarked. I'll give you an example: I was chatting to some folks recently, and one of them said, "Did you ever read the plan on solar flares?"

Related Article: Space Watch: Solar and Geomagnetic Storms, What Are They?



Hopeless Precautions

"I answered no, and they argued that if you seek some professional advice on it, you'll realize that the current government strategy is hopeless," I said.

"There isn't a culture of consulting outside experts," he remarked. I'll give you an example: I was chatting to some folks recently, and one of them said, "Did you ever read the plan on solar flares?"

"I answered no, and they argued that if you seek some professional advice on it, you'll realize that the current government strategy is hopeless, I said."

Support for Cummings

Mr. Cummings' viewpoint was echoed by experts.

"Dominic Cummings is totally accurate in highlighting that the UK's preparation for catastrophic space weather isn't good enough," Henry Dodds, CEO of risk consultancy company Drayton Tyler, told Express.co.uk.

"I sincerely hope that the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy's five-year space weather strategy, which will be released later this year, is more than simply a plan for a plan, but is also proactive and robust, with clear government duties.

"Severe space weather is a 'when, not if' occurrence, with warning durations measured in days rather than weeks, and it's not something you can avoid.

"If it occurs, Cummings said, we'll all be in a worse condition than Covid, and I believe he's correct."

Solar Flares

According to previous research, the Sun produces an intense solar flare every 25 years on average, with the last one impacting the Earth in 1989.

Because conducting rocks on Earth may transport extra energy from the magnetic shield and plow it into the national grid, there were power disruptions in Quebec, Canada, during this storm.

Furthermore, a severe solar storm can bring down satellite systems by expanding Earth's magnetosphere, making it more difficult for satellite signals to penetrate.

Also Read: [UPDATE] Solar Storms: Are They Dangerous?

For more cosmic news, don't forget to follow Nature World News!
By PTI

MUMBAI: Actor-producer Alia Bhatt on Wednesday announced a five-part series as an attempt to disseminate authentic information about COVID-19 vaccines amid "myths and rumours that are exchanged on social media".

Titled "The Intersection: Vaccinate India", the series is a collaboration between Bhatt's production house Eternal Sunshine Productions and podcast network Audiomatic. "Even though the vaccines are here, some of us are still hesitant.A great deal of this hesitancy is due to misinformation, myths and rumours that are exchanged on social media and other messaging platforms," the 28-year-old actor says in the video shared on her official Twitter page.

Shared knowledge is our greatest ally in this fight against Covid-19.

Together, @audiomaticIN and @EternalSunProd are bringing to you a 5 part series that can help us understand the Covid-19 vaccines a little better. pic.twitter.com/VxoKg4GsF0  Alia Bhatt (@aliaa08) May 26, 2021

She said that the series is an effort to learn more about the vaccines through "reliable sources and make the most informed choice about getting vaccinated". "The Intersection", which debuts Thursday, will see renowned doctors and global health activists sharing data and facts around COVID-19 vaccines.

"I hope this series will help address some of your concerns around the vaccines," Bhatt, who will next be seen in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Gangubai Kathiawadi", further says in the video. The first episode of the series will be available in a podcast and video format.

India on Wednesday reported 2,08,921 COVID-19 infections, pushing the overall tally of cases to 2,71,57,795, as the country conducted 22,17,320 coronavirus tests, its highest-ever in a day, according to Union Health Ministry data.
A Sharadhaa By

Express News Service

The outbreak of the second wave of Covid-19 and the subsequent lockdown has pushed shooting schedules of several films. However, young talent Vainidhi Jagdish is among the few for whom social media has been a great avenue for short reel content-- dances, acting, beauty tips, or anything that mirrors her current lifestyle.

The Yaana actor, who has two projects in the pipeline, tells us that she has been on different social media platforms to stay connected. I have always been in the habit of taking pictures with friends and family. So its no surprise that I love experimenting with features on social media.This lockdown I have dabbled in content creation. This has led to my collaborating with brands, with friends, and coming up with ideas to entertain people. This is done regularly because you have time on hand.

Having said that, whatever I put up on social media is from my daily life which is why I have named it #LifeofVai, says Vainidhi. She adds, I am finding happiness in doing this. However, I am not completely dependent on social media. Ask Vainidhi, who comes from a film background, whether her presence on social media is an advantage in fetching the right kind of projects. Not really. My offers are because of my first film Yaana, says Vainidhi, adding, There are instances when people have heard about me and then gone to check my page.I got the short film Oh Fish through Instagram, however, all the other offers are only because of my debut.

Next in line for the actor is Bangalore Days, a college-based love story directed by Raj Surya. She is also a part of Rathnan Prapancha, a debut venture by KRG Studios, in which she is paired opposite Pramod in Rohit Padakis directorial that also features Dhananjay and Reba Monica John. I am left with the shooting of one song for both the films, says Vanidhi, who mentions that it was a different experience playing the role of a North Karnataka girl in Rathnan Prapancha. I had to do a lot of workshops and had to learn the Hubbali-Kannada accent before shooting. It was a 10-day schedule. My role in this film is in contrast to that in Yaana, she says.

Vainidhi is here to stay and is serious about making her mark in cinema. All of my life Ive wanted to be in front of the camera. If not the big camera, at least a phone camera. I am someone who has been watching films since childhood. Whatever happens I want to make a mark, and I am taking it very seriously and waiting for the right opportunities. Im taking time to make good choices, she says. Films, entrepreneurship, social service, and many other activities...Vainidhi enjoys multitasking.

What I have understood is that you need to hustle and keep working hard. Dont always depend on one stage to showcase your talent, says the youngster. For the actor, who is a part of the millennial world, cinema is not just limited to the big screen. Vainidhi is also open to showcasing her skills on different platforms. Today the theatre screen is not the only spacewhere you get recognised. Everyone is getting an opportunity and competition is getting intense. Only the best work speaks. I am happy to be in this era where opportunities are abundant, she signs off.
Avinash Ramachandran By

Express News Service

The minutes before an interview can begin are rather awkward generally. How do you segue from general pleasantries into interview questions? If its a video interview, what do you say while both of you are being hooked on to the mics and sound is being checked? These days, the easiest icebreaker is to ask if they are feeling okay.

Actor MS Bhaskars immediate response was to ask if I was vaccinated. Having just returned from my first dose, I told him as much, and he replied, "My son too had his first dose just now. The date for your next dose is August 17. Note it down."

This assertiveness and general care for anothers wellbeing, reminded me of his role in director Radha Mohans Mozhi, which won him his first State Award for Best Supporting Actor. In this week's release, Malaysia to Amnesia, Bhaskar is collaborating with Radha Mohan for the seventh time.

"While working with him for the first time in Azhagiya Theeye, I was astounded by his knowledge and humility. He also enjoyed my acting abilities a lot.," says the multifaceted actor, who credits Radha Mohans style of narration for bringing out the best in him.

"Our friendship started there, and over the years, we have developed a wonderful working relationship too. He is a calm person who has mastered the art of extracting work from his actors without resorting to anger or force. The way he narrates does not just connect with my heart, but makes sure that the nuances seep into every cell of my body," he adds.

Bhaskar asserts that Mannargudi Narayanan, his character in Malaysia to Amnesia, is a role that has many layers and surprise factors. "That is why I cant divulge more details about the role. It was a jolly unit with a lot of fun, respect, and camaraderie all around. Vani Bhojan called me appa, the kid on the set called me thatha, and I had similarly warm experiences with Vaibhav and Karunakaran as well. People across age groups can enjoy every facet of this film. I have always wanted to play such a role in my career. In fact, I am getting a lot of such opportunities now, but the lockdown has put everything on hold," says Bhaskar, adding that the film offered him a role he has always yearned for.

In some ways, the lockdown also served to facilitate Bhaskars return to the small screen, albeit in a different format. The actor, who became a household name with his role as Pattabhi in the hit comedy serial, Chinna Papa Periya Papa, recently made his debut in the digital space with Amazon Prime Video's Putham Pudhu Kaalai.

And now, he is already gearing up for his next OTT release, to be streamed on ZEE5. While, on one hand, there is criticism that OTT content is not exactly family-friendly, on the other hand, we have someone like Bhaskar participating in it - an actor, who is strict about staying away from double entendres and abusive language.

"Kannadasan wrote 'Oruvarin thudipinile vilaivadhu kavidhaiya da, iruvarin thudippinile vilaivadhu mazhalaiya da'. This is also sex... but look how beautifully he says it. Right from the time of Chinna Paapa Periya Paapa, I was forthright about not telling double-meaning jokes. Over the years, filmmakers have known not to approach me with such roles. For me, regardless of the medium, the job of an actor is ultimately about understanding a character and delivering your best."

Another facet of Bhaskar's stellar career has been his grasp of the language and the various dialects he delivers dialogues in. He shows discernible enthusiasm when I ask about his voice modulation in the recent GV Prakash film, Vanakkam Da Mappilei. "I am a keen observer of human behaviour. Right from voice and body language to mannerisms, I try to make mental notes. It is important for an actor to seek inspiration from everywhere," he says.

"One of the best places to grasp such lessons is a wine shop. I have seen people cry without tears, laugh without reason...As an actor, it is important to mingle with people, and understand how they behave," he adds.

Now that he is a popular face, does he still partake in such exercises? "Absolutely. Sivaji (Ganesan) appa did it until he breathed his last. Kalaignar (Former CM Karunanidhi) appa sought knowledge always. Even now, if I have doubts in Tamil, I talk to Solomon Papaiya, professor Gnanasambandham, Nellai Suha, etc When in doubt, it is important to reach out to those who know better. An actor, or rather, a person should not prioritise ego when having to reach out and learn new things."

A stand-out aspect of his interviews is his love for the Tamil language and a never-ending thirst for knowledge. "It isn't enough to read the right things; we must also use it at the right time. As an actor, I try to use my knowledge to enhance my role and the directors vision. It is the least I can do to an artform that has given me everything," says Bhaskar, who remains cautious about not getting carried away by fame and adulation.

"Some might like Mozhi, some might like Engal Anna, and some others might like 8 Thottakkal. I am just thankful to all those filmmakers for devising such varied roles and giving me the opportunity to play them. Ellaa pugazhum iyakkunarukke" he says and turns this interview suddenly into a different trajectory.

"We can't really leave the earth a moment earlier or later than we are destined to. But what we can do is to be safe as long as we are here. Also, dont forget the date of your second dose..." he signs off, leaving me flashing a wide, grateful smile.
Subhash Chandra N S By

Express News Service

KARWAR: A gram panchayat in remote Yellapur taluk, Mavina Mane, has shown how to tackle the ongoing Covid crisis by ensuring social distancing and adherence to lockdown norms. The panchayat that had over a 100 cases is now free from Covid.

Impressed over this, district in-charge minister Shivaram Hebbar on Wednesday personally visited the panchayat and congratulated the authorities.

A tiny panchayat with just seven villages, Mavina Mane is a classic example of finding its own way forward without waiting for any assistance. The remote village nestled n the Western Ghats has shown how adherence to social distancing and helping each other can keep the pandemic at bay.

If I go to Bengaluru from Uttarakhand Kannada, not a single toll booth or Checkpost will stop me, but in this gram panchayat, I was asked to stop six times. This is how they strictly follow the lockdown rules, Hebbar told The New Indian Express, further adding that if all the villages strictly adhere to the Covid 19 norms and help themselves, there will be very less burden on the Government.

Though the panchayat hardly has 500 houses, the pandemic here was severe with 108 cases. Even as the second wave hit, there were 15 residents who tested positive for covid. The villagers were shocked as they had managed to keep the pandemic away during the first wave. After a wedding in Malavalli village, 15 guests developed symptoms on April 19. The numbers soon swelled to 108, informed Gopal Krishna Hedge, a member of the task force here.

Without wasting any time, the panchayat swing into action and formed a task force with its own people to ensure that the disease did not spread.

The task force fixed several check posts so that people will not be able to take out their vehicles and outsiders will not enter their village unless there is an emergency. The Mavina Mane Sahakara Sea Sangha, a cooperative society and a few donors came together to ensure that groceries and other essential commodities are supplied to every household in the villages so the no one needs to step out. The PDOs, health department staff and others were reigned in to ensure medical aid, testing and regular monitoring of the patients, informed Panchayat President.

Asha workers, Anganwadi workers and some health department staff regularly visited houses almost everyday to check oxygen levels, temperatures and if anyone has any covid-related symptoms.

With a hundred patients already cured, the last eight persons are already on the path of recovery and have been declared completely recovered. The Panchayat has now been declared as Covid-free for now.
Sudhir Suryawanshi By

Express News Service

MUMBAI: All is not well with the Maha Vikas Aghadi in Maharashtra. The Congress party, a key alliance partner in this government, continues to take an anti-government stand and has even threatened to walk out of the government if their demands are not met.

The standoff began after the Maharashtra Congress chief took the stand of supporting the oil refinery at Nanar in Konkan, at a time when the Shiv Sena has decided to oppose it.

Maharashtra Congress party president Nana Patole said that the oil refinery at Nanar will bring huge investments and provide employment to the local people. "The state government should address the issue pertaining to Nanar oil Refinery. The project should happen at Nanar only," Patole insisted, even as his party's own sarpanch Prabhudesai from Nanar opposed the project saying it will threaten the ecosystem and beauty of the Konkan region.

Shiv Sena president and Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray emphasised that they are with the people of the Nanar. If they do not want the project, then it will be relocated to another location, he promised.

This has been the Sena's stand for the last few years -- even when they were with the BJP and the Devendra Fadnavis government was at the helm in Maharashtra. Konkan region, it must be noted, is the Shiv Sena's biggest vote bastion.

ALSO READ | Congress party leaders mourn the loss of a rising star, Rajeev Satav

Another disagreement surfaced when Congress minister Nitin Raut opposed the government's decision to cancel reservations in promotions. Raut demanded that reservations in promotions should be continued so that officers from the deprived classes get an opportunity. However, deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar was not in favour of the suggestion.

An aggrieved Raut met Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole and expressed his displeasure with the Uddhav Thackeray government over this move. Nana Patole took up the issue and demanded that the state government should immediately implement reservations in promotions. He threatened that the Congress party will not hesitate to walk out of the government if the common minimum program of all three parties is not followed by the Uddhav Thackeray government.

Earlier, the Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi had also written a letter to Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and reminded him of the coalition dharma and asked him to implement the common minimum program of all three parties in letter and spirit.

"It is not the sole responsibility of the Congress to run the government in the state successfully. We as a party will continue to fight for our ideology and commitment towards the backward and minority," a senior Congress leader said while requesting anonymity.

Senior Congress minister Balasaheb Thorat said there are issues in government but they will be resolved when the three leaders of the coalition parties sit together.

ALSO SEE:
Kanu Sarda By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Facebook-owned WhatsApp on Tuesday moved the Delhi High Court against the new rules for digital media companies issued by the Centre, saying these laws infringe upon the right to privacy and free speech of its users and that the company will have to break end-to-end encryption to comply, The new rules require messaging platforms such as WhatsApp to enable identification of the first originator of information that undermines sovereignty of India, security of the state, or public order.

In its 234-page plea, the social media giant cautioned that traceability can be spoofed or modified, leading to new ways for people to be framed for things they did not say or do. Citizens will not speak freely for fear that their private communications will be traced and used against them. We are not aware of any country that requires intermediaries to do this, the plea stated.

WhatsApp has challenged Section 4 of Part II of the rules that were notified on February 25. The Section says that a significant social media intermediary (social media companies with more than 50 lakh registered users) primarily providing messaging services must enable the identification of the first originator of the information.

Supreme Court has emphasised the importance of judicial review before the invasion of privacy occurs to guarantee against arbitrary action by the State (Puttaswamy judgment). The new IT Rules allow message tracing without any judicial review, the petition stated. The petition also flagged the risk journalists and activists will face.

Journalists could be at risk of retaliation for investigating issues that may be unpopular. Activists could be at risk for discussing certain rights and criticising politicians or policies. Clients and lawyers could become reluctant to share confidential information related to their case, the petition said. The plea was moved a day after the deadline for social media companies to put in place new mechanisms to comply with the rules.

Legal points

WhatApp says Rule 4(2) of the Intermediary Rules is unconstitutional

It also says traceability provision is unconstitutional and against the fundamental right to privacy

It will force WhatsApp to break end-to-end encryption and put the privacy of journalists and activists at

great risk

Centre says right to privacy comes with certain reasonable restrictions

Non-compliance of the new IT rules will result in social media firms losing their intermediary status, which offers protection from liabilities for any third-party information hosted by them
By Express News Service

BHOPAL: Its not only the opposition parties governments in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, which are contesting the BJP ruled centers charge of maximum wastage of COVID vaccine doses, but the saffron party ruled Madhya Pradesh too is not agreeing with the union ministry of health and family welfare ministrys vaccine doses wastage figures.

As per the union ministrys latest data, Jharkhand has 37.3% vaccine wastage, while Chhattisgarh has 30.2% wastage of vaccine doses, followed by Tamil Nadu (15.5%) Jammu and Kashmir (10.8%), and Madhya Pradesh (10.7%) compared to the national average of 6.3% wastage.

The wastage in these states had come to the fore at review meeting conducted on Wednesday by the union health secretary Rajesh Bhushan.

Day after it, the MP minister for medical education Vishwas Sarang, expressed disagreement with the vaccine wastage figures issued by the center about MP.

As per our knowledge, the vaccine wastage doses in MP are 1.3%, so the central governments figures of MP are quite high. Its possible that the actual figures from our end couldnt be communicated properly to the centre. Ive asked our officials to get in touch with the officials at the union ministry of health and family welfare and get the figures corrected, Sarang said in Bhopal on Thursday.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Johnson and Johnson's COVID-19 vaccine to be manufactured in India by Biological E cannot be directly channelled to the domestic market and will have to be handed over entirely to the US pharma giant as agreed by the firms but the government is looking at the possibility of securing a part of this production, sources said.

Hyderabad-based Biological E has, however, proposed to manufacture about 30 crore doses of its indigenous vaccine exclusively for the Indian market by December and has sought "funding support" from the government.

Its vaccine candidate is currently in phase 1/2 clinical trial phase.

According to the sources, there are limited prospects of J&J exporting its vaccine from the US to other countries in the near future and the "entire production" at the BE facilities in India, beginning July/August, will be handed over to the pharma giant under a contract between the companies.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), along with the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), has been asked to work on securing a part of the J&J vaccine to be manufactured by BE for the Indian market, the sources said.

The government is exploring all avenues to boost vaccine supply urgently to inoculate the billion-plus population amid a devastating second wave of COVID-19, and the Cabinet Secretary chaired two rounds of high-level meetings last week on the availability of the shots in the global as well as domestic markets.

The heads of the Quad member-countries -- the US, India, Japan and Australia -- had decided at a virtual summit in March to launch a mega vaccine initiative.

Under the agreement, coronavirus vaccines will be produced in India for the Indo-Pacific region with financial assistance from the US and Japan, while Australia will contribute in logistical aspects.

Biological E is likely to start "fill and finish" of the J&J vaccine in July-August and manufacturing of the vaccine in the last quarter of the year.

The Development Finance Corporation of the United States is supporting BE for setting up three additional fill and finish lines, exclusively for J&J vaccine, and they plan to manufacture about 1 billion doses by the end of 2022, the sources said.

The sources privy to the discussions said another US pharma company, Moderna, does not have surplus jabs to share in 2021, and is expected to launch a single-dose COVID-19 vaccine in India next year.

Pfizer is ready to offer five crore shots in 2021 itself but it wants significant regulatory relaxations, including indemnification and waiving the requirement of testing its vaccines in Central Drugs Laboratory, sources said earlier.

Many states have flagged shortage of vaccines and the gap between supply and requirement is widening amid the deadly second wave.

India has administered over 20 crore doses since the launch of the vaccination drive in mid-January.

India is currently using two 'made-in India' jabs - Covishield manufactured by the Serum Institute and Covaxin of Bharat Biotech - and Russian-made Sputnik V to inoculate its population.

A few more indigenous vaccines, including the ones made by Biological E, Zydus Cadila and Gennova, are in the pipeline.

For its indigenously developed vaccine, Biological E has sought funding support from the government for at-risk manufacturing, essentially for the import of adjuvant which is in "high demand" in the international market.

ALSO READ | Government, Pfizer working together for earliest possible import of vaccine: VK Paul

A sub-committee has examined the funding proposal of Biological E and given its recommendation to the health ministry, the sources said.

The health ministry has been asked to take immediate decision on the funding proposal of Biological E, they added.

In the high-level meetings chaired by the Cabinet secretary, officials from the MEA, NITI Aayog, Department of Biotechnology, and law health ministries were present.

Meanwhile, More than 1.84 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with states and UTs and they will receive over 11 lakh doses within the next three days, the Union Health Ministry said on Thursday.

The Centre has so far provided, both through the free of cost category and through direct state procurement category, more than 22 crore vaccine doses (22,16,11,940) to states and UTs.

Of this, the total consumption, including wastages is 20,17,59,768 doses, the ministry said.

ALSO READ | Why is India, largest COVID vaccine manufacturer, facing shortage? Priyanka Gandhi Vadra asks Centre

As part of the nationwide vaccination drive, the Centre has been supporting the states and UTs by providing them COVID-19 vaccines free of cost.

The Centre has also been facilitating direct procurement of vaccines by states and UTs.

Implementation of the Liberalized and Accelerated Phase-3 Strategy of COVID-19 Vaccination has started from May 1.

Under the strategy, every month 50 per cent of the total Central Drugs Laboratory (CDL) cleared vaccine doses of any manufacturer would be procured by the Centre.

It would continue to make these doses available to state governments free of cost as was being done earlier, the ministry said.

"More than 1.84 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses (1,84,90,522) are still available with states and UTs to be administered."

ALSO READ | Sanofi and GSK launch final testing phase of new Covid-19 vaccine

"Furthermore, 11,42,630 vaccine doses are in the pipeline and will be received by states and UTs within the next three days," the ministry added.

The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country has exceeded 20.25 crore, the Union health ministry said on Wednesday.

It said 8,31,500 beneficiaries in the 18-44 age group received the first dose of Covid vaccine on Wednesday and cumulatively 1,38,62,428 people across 37 states and union territories have received it since the start of Phase-3 of the vaccination drive on May 1.

Bihar, Gujarat, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh have administered the first dose of Covid vaccine to more than 10 lakh beneficiaries in the 18-44 age group, the ministry said.

According to provisional data, the total number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered across the country so far stands at 20,25,29,884, it said.

The beneficiaries include 98,08,901 healthcare workers (HCWs) who have taken the first dose and 67,37,679 HCWs who have taken the second dose; 1,52,42,964 frontline workers (FLWs) who have received the first dose and 84,00,950 FLWs who have taken the second dose; and 1,38,62,428 individuals in the 18-44 age group who have taken the first dose.

Besides, 6,26,09,143 and 1,01,11,128 beneficiaries in the 45-60 age group have been administered the first and second dose respectively while 5,73,45,128 and 1,84,11,563 beneficiaries aged above 60 have taken the first and second dose.

As many as 17,19,931 vaccine doses were administered on Wednesday, the 131st day of the vaccination drive.

According to provisional data, 15,76,982 beneficiaries were administered the first dose and 1,42,949 received the second dose, the ministry said, adding that final reports for the day would be completed by late night.

The vaccination exercise, as a tool to protect the most vulnerable population groups in the country against COVID-19, continues to be regularly reviewed and monitored at the highest level, it said.
By PTI

JORHAT: Miscreants and alleged land encroachers from Nagaland fired at Congress MLA Rupjyoti Kurmi, his security team and a group of journalists from Assam when they went to visit a village in Dessoi Valley forest in Jorhat district on Thursday, but no one was hurt.

Expressing deep concern over the incident, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma ordered Special DGP (Law and Order) Gyanendra Pratap Singh to rush to the spot and carry out a detailed investigation into the matter.

The opposition Congress blamed inaction of Assam government for the development and doubted that "suspected Nagaland Police personnel" were behind the incident of firing.

The disputed area falls between Bongaon and Sonapur villages in Dessoi Valley Reserve Forest under Mariani police station of Jorhat district and Changki village under Mangkolemba circle of Mokokchung district of Nagaland, official sources said.

According to officials, the local MLA, his security team, a few additional personnel from an Assam police battalion and a group of local journalists visited a village inside the dessoi valley reserve forest following media reports that people from Nagaland have encroached Assam land.

"When Kurmi and the team were approaching, the miscreants fired at air to prevent them from approaching the site. As they did not stop, then the people from Nagaland fired several rounds aiming at Kurmi and others. Luckily, the bullets did not hit them," they said.

Seeing their aggressive nature and not taking any risk, the entire team retreated and ran for safety, an official said.

The videos of the journalists capturing the entire episode, including the shooting incident and fleeing the place for safety, are being telecast by local TV channels and have gone viral.

When contacted, Kurmi told PTI, "The media reported about three days ago that Naga people encroached forest land, cut trees, built houses and installed solar panels. Local Assamese villagers said the SP Jorhat visited, but did nothing."

The MLA said he came to see the development himself and brought along the media as the land belonged to Assam.

"As soon as they saw us, they started firing. I would have become a martyr today had my luck not favoured me! The government must protect Assam land," Kurmi said.

The MLA from Mariani constituency gave an ultimatum of 40 hours to the Assam government to free the land from the encroachers of the neighbouring state, otherwise he will start an indefinite hunger strike at the site.

Kurmi also said that DGP Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta and Political Secretary to Chief Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah spoke to him, and they were informed about the panic situation prevailing in the area.

The chief minister expressed concern over the firing incident at the New Sonowal Border Outpost (BOP) at Assam- Nagaland inter-state border.

He termed the incident as unfortunate, which can jeopardise the relation between the two neighbouring states, and directed the Special DGP to travel to the site of the incident and conduct an inquiry.

Condemning the incident, Leader of the Congress Legislature Party Debabrata Saikia said the firing incident was carried out by "suspected Nagaland police personnel".

"People from Nagaland have been encroaching Assam land for a long time. I also visited many such sites and submitted a report to the government, which did nothing.

"Due to their inaction, today's incident took place. I urge the Assam government to free our land strictly," he added.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The government on Thursday slammed as "baseless and false" a statement by Twitter that had alleged intimidation by police over the 'manipulated media' tags issue and threat to freedom of expression, with IT Ministry terming the company's stance as an attempt to dictate terms to the world's largest democracy.

The ministry asserted that representatives of social media companies, including Twitter, "are and will always remain safe in India", and that there is "no threat to their personal safety and security".

In a hard-hitting statement, the ministry said India has a glorious tradition of free speech and democratic practices dating back centuries.

"Protecting free speech in India is not the prerogative of only a private, for-profit, foreign entity like Twitter, but it is the commitment of the world's largest democracy and its robust institutions," it said.

Twitter's statement is an attempt to "dictate its terms" to the world's largest democracy, the ministry said, adding that through its actions and deliberate defiance, the company is seeking to undermine India's legal system.

Twitter refuses to comply with the very regulations in the Intermediary Guidelines on the basis of which it is claiming a safe harbour protection from any criminal liability in India, the ministry contended.

It questioned Twitter on why it did not set up a robust mechanism of its own in India, and said the company's officials in India routinely claimed that they have no authority and that "they and the people of India need to escalate everything to Twitter headquarter in USA".

The purported commitment of Twitter to its Indian user base thus not only sounds hollow but completely self serving, the ministry said.

ALSO READ: No likely ban for Facebook, Twitter and Instagram in India, may lose social intermediary status

Despite having a large user base in India and earning significant revenue from its operations here, Twitter is "most reluctant" to appoint India-based grievance redressal officer and mechanism, chief compliance officer and nodal officer to whom its own users can complain when they are subjected to offesive tweets, the ministry argued.

The government said it respects the right of people to ask questions and also criticise on these social media platforms, including Twitter.

The government equally respects the right of privacy, it said.

"The only instance of scuttling free speech on Twitter is Twitter itself and its opaque policies, as a result of which people's accounts are suspended and tweets deleted arbitrarily without recourse," the ministry pointed out.

It asked Twitter to "stop beating around the bush" and comply with laws of the land.

"Law making and policy formulations is the sole prerogative of the sovereign and Twitter is just a social media platform and it has no locus in dictating what India's legal policy framework should be," the ministry said.

The government said although Twitter claimed that it is committed to people of India, that commitment has been "most invisible in recent times".

Flagging some instances, it said Twitter chose to show the geo-locations of certain locations in Union Territory of Ladakh as part of China, and took several days to rectify "this blatant disrespect to India's sensitivity and territorial integrity".

The ministry also called out Twitter for delay in taking action on its order to block provocative content that could impact public law and order, even though the company had been quick to act on similar instance during violence at US Capitol Hill.

The ministry said that Twitter's "lack of responsibility" had led to rampant proliferation of fake and harmful content against India and Indians.

ALSO READ: Concerned over intimidation tactics by police, potential threat to freedom of expression - Twitter

"Twitter Inc., a USA based private company, in its communique says that it seeks 'constructive dialogue', 'collaborative approach' from the Government of a sovereign democratic republic to 'safeguard interests of the public'.

It is time that Twitter disabuses itself of this grandiosity and comply with laws of India," it said.

Earlier on Thursday, Twitter had called the recent visit by Delhi Police to its offices a form of "intimidation" and said it was concerned about its employees and the potential threat to freedom of expression.

Twitter had marked tweets by ruling BJP leaders on the alleged strategy document of Opposition to target the government over COVID as containing 'manipulated media', which prompted the police to visit its offices late on Monday.

Opposition Congress has disputed the document, calling it fake.

In its first official statement after the Delhi Police visited the company's offices in Delhi and in Gurugram to serve notice to its country managing director as part of its investigation into the 'manipulated media' tag, Twitter said it will continue to be strictly guided by principles of transparency and protecting freedom of expression.

"Right now, we are concerned by recent events regarding our employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people we serve," Twitter said in the statement.

"We, alongside many in civil society in India and around the world, have concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police in response to enforcement of our global Terms of Service, as well as with core elements of the new IT rules," Twitter had said.
By PTI

KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday extended the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions till June 15, saying that the curbs have helped ease the pandemic situation a little.

The West Bengal government had announced the existing restrictions for 15 days from May 16 following a huge surge in the number of coronavirus cases.

The announcement for extension of the curbs came three days before they were scheduled to come to an end.

"The Covid-19 restrictions in the state will continue till June 15. This is not a lockdown or a curfew. We will strictly follow the restrictions."

"It's a relief to see that the ongoing restrictions have helped in easing the situation a little," Banerjee told reporters at the state secretariat 'Nabanna'.

She allowed the jute industry to work with 40 per cent workforce in place of the existing 30 per cent.

"We will see that the state's economy is not disturbed," Banerjee said.

Essential services will continue operating following protocols, the chief minister said.

The state will also hold the Class 12 board examinations in the last week of July, while the tests for Class 10 will take place in mid-August, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said on Thursday.

The dates will be announced later by the respective boards, she said.

"We have decided to hold the secondary (Madhyamik) and higher secondary (Uccho Madhyamik) examinations. Adhering to all COVID-19 safety protocols," Banerjee told reporters at the state secretariat.

Both the board examinations will be held at home centres and only for compulsory subjects, she added.
By PTI

HYDERABAD: Bharat Biotech which faced a red flag from Brazil's health regulator for supply of COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin to that country over the issues of Good Manufacturing Practices in its plant, has filed a new request to the Brazilian authorities for certification.

According to the National Health Surveillance Agency of Brazil Anvisa, Bharat Biotech made the request on May 25 and a day before the Ministry of Health of the South American country filed a new application for authorisation to import 20 million doses of the Covaxin.

Earlier, Anvisa denied permission to import Covaxin after its authorities found that the plant in which the jab is being made did not meet the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) requirements.

"Regarding the fulfillment of Good Manufacturing Practices by the manufacturer Bharat Biotech, one of the main aspects that motivated the previous decision, the company filed a new certification request at Anvisa, referring to the production line of the finished product.

Complementing the previous information, a new request for certification of Good Manufacturing Practices for the biological input produced by Bharat Biotech was filed on Tuesday," Anvisa said in a roughly translated Portuguese.

Bharat Biotech International Limited on February 26 said it has signed an agreement with theBraziliangovernment for supply of 20 million doses of Covaxin during the second and third quarters of the current year.

However, the Brazilian health regulator refused to import the vaccine into the country citing GMP issues.

The vaccine maker had earlier told P T I that the requirements pointed out during inspection will be fulfilled, the timelines for fulfillment "is under discussion with theBrazilNRA and will be resolved soon."

GMP certification of all stages of vaccine production is a prerequisite for the registration of the immunizer in Brazil.

For the exceptional import order, only the minimum data of Good Production Practices are analyzed, but without the need for the certificate in question, Anvisa further said.

Anvisa recently authorised the conduct of clinical trials of Covaxin in Brazil.

Approval for tests on the immuniser developed in India will serve to assess the efficacy, safety and consistency between vaccine batches, it said.

The study which was requested by Precis Farmacutica, representative in Brazil for Bharat Biotech involves the application of two doses, 28 days apart, in 4,500 volunteers, in the states of So Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Bahia and Mato Grosso in Brazil.
By PTI

LUDHIANA: A team of Punjab's health department on Thursday was allegedly attacked in Rachhin village here when it went there to sensitise villagers about COVID-19 testing, officials said.

A member of the team, identified as Suraaj Mohammed, a multipurpose health worker, sustained injuries on his forehead in the attack, they said, adding he was rushed to Community Health Centre in Pakhowal.

"I was attacked with a brick by one villager named Jaspreet Singh when I was sensitising villagers to come forward for COVID-19 testing," Mohammed told police.

Ludhiana Deputy Commissioner Varinder Kumar Sharma said such incidents were unwarranted.

Strict action would be taken against those trying to derail the efforts of the government to contain the virus spread, he said.

A case has been registered against the accused, Deputy Superintendent of Police G S Bains said.
By PTI

RANCHI: Hitting out at the Centre for "launching vaccination drive without preparedness", Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Thursday said the state is facing an acute shortage of vaccines with jabs for 18-44 age group almost over and hardly two to three days vaccines left for the people above the age of 45 years.

Accusing the centre of "no transparency in vaccine allocation", Soren said under the circumstance he was left with no other option than to appeal to the companies operating in the state to come forward for vaccination of communities in their areas.

"We are facing acute shortages of vaccines. The vaccine stock for the 18-44 age group is almost over and there is hardly two to three days stock for people above 45 years.

"We have raised the demand for vaccines but there is no clarity...There is no transparency in vaccine allocation," Soren told PTI.

Alleging that the inoculation drive was launched "without preparedness", the CM said things have become complicated.

Soren urged corporates functioning in the state to bear the cost of vaccination of the 18-44 age group communities in their vicinity under CSR (corporate social responsibility).

The mineral-rich Jharkhand has a number of corporate houses both the public and private sectors including Tata Steel, Tata Motors, Steel Authority of India Ltds' Bokaro Steel Plant, RDCIS and Coal India arms like Central Coalfields Ltd to name a few.

"It's need of the hour that the government and the corporate sector come together in the interest of public health. Therefore, I appeal to all the companies operational in Jharkhand to ensure awareness and bear the cost of vaccination of the communities, especially within the age-group of 18-44 years, residing within their CSR operational area.

"This will ensure that all the eligible clients are vaccinated at the earliest," he said.

The state will provide all support to the companies in terms of logistics, he said, adding: "Together we will fight, together we will win."

He said the whole world has been afflicted with COVID-19 pandemic for more than a year now and all states including Jharkhand were being ravaged by the deadly second wave.

Jharkhand is left with barely one lakh vaccines for 18-44 age group while for the people above 45 years, doses will suffice barely for two to three days, a senior official said.

There are 700-800 vaccination centres across the state, he said adding vaccination drive has been halted at many centres in the wake of severe cyclonic storm 'Yaas'.

"We have 3.5 crore people in the agegroup of 18-44 years but against our initial requirement of 50 lakh doses, we could get only 5 lakh for May. Another consignment of 5 lakh doses is due for June," Nodal Officer for vaccination drive A Dodde told PTI.

There are about 85 lakh people above the age of 45 in the state.

"The government of Jharkhand is dedicated and devoted to fight this battle against COVID-19 with all its might, we all know that vaccination is the most important tool we have at our disposal to help stop this pandemic.

"The state government believes that everyone is entitled to 'Right to Life' and hence is committed to provide vaccines to all its citizens free of cost irrespective of their caste, creed or religion.

"It is the need of the hour that the government and the corporate sector come together in the interest of public health," Soren said in his appeal to corporates.

Last week the chief minister had said that Jharkhand got barely 40 lakh doses of vaccines against a requirement of 4 crore doses, leading to the shortage.

However, the state government would make serious efforts to procure vaccines, including through imports, he had said.

Earlier, blaming organisations authorised by the centre for not making available vaccines, Jharkhand had put off the 18 plus anti-COVID jab from May 1 and launched the same on May 14.

Jharkhand is also badly hit by the second wave of the deadly virus.

The state has so far recorded 4,910 COVID related fatalities.

On Wednesday, the state had slammed the centre over vaccine wastage, saying it is wrong to project that the vaccine wastage proportion is as high as 37.3 per cent in the state whereas the fact remains that it is much below the national average and currently stands at 4.65 per cent.

The Jharkhand government retort came a day after the centre said despite urging states repeatedly to keep vaccine wastage below 1 per cent, many states such as Jharkhand (37.3 pc) were reporting much higher wastage than the national average (6.3 pc).
By PTI

CHANDIGARH: The Punjab government on Thursday extended the coronavirus restrictions till June 10 but removed the limit on the number of passengers in personal vehicles and allowed the resumption of elective surgeries and OPD operations in hospitals.

The state government had imposed extensive curbs, in addition to measures like a weekend lockdown and a night curfew to check the spread of the infection.

The decision to extend the curbs was taken at a review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Amarinder Singh here, according to a government statement.

Earlier, the state government had extended the Covid curbs till May 31.

The CM directed the resumption of elective surgeries in both government and private hospitals besides the restoration of outpatient department (OPD) operations in view of the improvement in the coronavirus situation, the statement said.

The state government had stopped elective surgeries on April 12 to ensure adequate availability of beds and medicine oxygen for serious infection cases.

The CM has now allowed these to be resumed, subject to the condition that there shall, for the present, be no reduction in beds for Level-3 coronavirus patients in hospitals.

The CM also said while the limit on the number of passengers in personal vehicles is being removed, the limit on commercial passenger vehicles and taxis will continue to be in place.

Earlier, the government had announced that not more than two persons could travel in a car.

Pillion riders on a two-wheeler were also not allowed, except for those belonging to the same family and living in the same house.

The deputy commissioners may make any adjustment for the opening of shops dealing in non-essential items as are merited by local conditions, the CM said.

According to the statement, given the comfortable oxygen situation currently, the CM directed that it now be allowed to be used for essential non-medical purposes, with a three-day buffer stock of it, however, to be maintained at all times.

He said oxygen concentrator banks have been created in every district for post-covid care patients who have a doctor's prescription.

The control room had ensured that there was no shortage of oxygen in any hospital, he said, adding that the demand in the state had come down from 304 metric tonnes to 236 MT in the past 10 days.

The CM directed the Health and Medical Education Departments to continue strengthening the Covid care infrastructure to deal with a possible third wave of the pandemic.

He asked them to invest in augmenting paediatric care and to seek 500 ventilators for it from the Centre.

It was told at the meeting that all 809 ventilators received earlier under the PM Cares Fund have been distributed and 136 of them were not working.

The CM also ordered the creation of more technical and specialist posts to meet the demand of the possible third wave.

All mid-level IAS/PCS transfers in all departments should be put on hold till the Covid crisis continues, directed the CM.

The CM also warned that profiteering and fleecing of patients by private hospitals amid such a crisis will not be allowed at any cost.
By PTI

MUMBAI: The Bombay High Court on Thursday asked the Breach Candy Hospital here not to discharge Delhi University associate professor Hany Babu, an accused in the Elgar Parishad-Maoist links case, till June 1 and sought a medical report on his condition and treatment given to him.

A vacation bench of Justices S S Shinde and N R Borkar said if the private hospital was to discharge Babu before June 1, then it shall first inform the court and take permission.

Babu tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this month and was initially brought from the Taloja prison in neighbouring Navi Mumbai to the government-run J J Hospital here.

He was later shifted to the GT Hospital in Mumbai.

His wife Jenny Rowena subsequently filed a petition in the HC seeking interim bail and medical aid for him.

Their counsel Yug Chaudhry had argued that Babu developed a severe eye infection and ran the risk of losing vision in his left eye.

On May 19, the HC permitted Babu to be shifted to the Breach Candy Hospital in south Mumbai for medical treatment at his own cost.

On Thursday, Chaudhry sought an urgent hearing of the petition, saying Babu should not be discharged from the hospital and sent back to jail.

"From May 3 to May 12, the prison authorities systematically ignored his (Babu) complaint of eye infection. Currently, he is being treated at the Breach Candy Hospital. Our only request is he should not be discharged and sent back to jail on the ground that he does not require critical care anymore," Chaudhry said.

When the bench asked if Babu's eye ailment was the new black fungus infection, also known as mucormycosis, Chaudhry said the hospital had checked, but they (Babus family or lawyer) do not know whether it is a fungal infection or a bacterial infection.

The bench then said the hospital should submit to the court an interim report on Babu's condition and the treatment provided to him.

"This mucormycosis is a serious infection that affects the life of a person. This is very dangerous. We need to find out if he is getting proper treatment," Justice Shinde said.

The bench also noted that injections for this new post-COVID-19 ailment (mucormycosis) were available only at the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and state-run hospitals.

"Today, we read somewhere that the BMC was now supplying the injections for black fungus to private hospitals too. We need to know if the Breach Candy Hospital has those injections," Justice Shinde said.

The court also said the state government and the National Investigation Agency (NIA), which is conducting a probe into the Elgar Parishad-Maoist links case, should not take this petition in an adversarial manner.

"The hospital shall submit an interim report on the medical treatment been given to Hany Babu by June 1. Till then, the hospital is requested not to discharge him. If they do then, this court should be informed and permission should be taken," the HC said.

The bench will hear the matter next on June 1.

Babu was arrested by the NIA in July 2020.

The Elgar Parishad case relates to alleged inflammatory speeches made at a conclave held in Pune on December 31, 2017, which the police claimed triggered violence the next day near the Koregaon-Bhima war memorial in the district.

The Pune police claimed the conclave was backed by Maoists.

The case was later taken over by the NIA.

Several other activists, including Sudha Bharadwaj and Varavara Rao, had been arrested in the case.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: In a novel initiative, an activist is compiling a list of women willing to donate their breast milk for infants who have lost their mothers to coronavirus.

The move comes after many such requests for breast milk were received on social media.

Activist Anvy Shrivastava with the help of the Delhi government's health department is compiling such a list of breast milk donors.

"We got few requests of breast milk for infants who lost their mothers to the infection. Milk banks usually provide 30 ml of breast milk for Rs 300, but it cannot be afforded by underprivileged families.

"We are getting donors and we specifically ask them if they have stored colostrum. We are maintaining a database of such donors. Most of these donors are from privileged backgrounds. They store the milk as per their doctors' advice," Shrivastava told PTI.

She said her team gets breast milk requests from attendants of infants admitted in neonatal ICUs.

Some of these infants are breastfed by women who had recently given birth at the same hospital, she said.

"The Delhi government's health department is backing us. At present, we have around 20 donors. We have asked them to store the breast milk datewise. We collect the milk from them and send it to a milk bank where it is screened. The criteria for a donor is that she should not be suffering from any ailment or be COVID-19 positive," the activist said.

The initiative caught everyone's attention after various mother community groups talked about it on Telegram along with being noticed on Instagram and Twitter.

"We require colostrum which is produced by a mother in the initial days after she gives birth. Some mothers produce colostrum even before the birth of the child. We have few donors for colostrum," Srivastava said.

Freshly expressed or pumped milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days and in the freezer for about six months.

"We are preparing for the days ahead. Anticipating that underprivileged families might need it (breast milk) and there can be a similar crisis in the future, we are preparing a database of donors," she said.

The Delhi Commission For Protection of Child Rights also said that it received many requests for breast milk amid the pandemic.

Raghuram Mallaiah, director, Neonatology Fortis La Femme and Founder, Amaara human milk bank, Delhi and Bengaluru said, "During the pandemic, we got requests from two to three hospitals where babies were born premature and their COVID-19 positive mothers were on ventilator. We also provided breast milk to such babies at our hospital."

However, he said there has been a dip in the number of donors amid the pandemic outbreak.

"During pre-Covid times, we had 40-45 litres and even 50 litres of breast milk in our bank, but due to the fear of COVID-19, donor mothers now do not want to step out and also do not want anyone to come and visit them. Till February-March, we were doing fine, but after that we have had few donations and hardly get 15-20 litres a month. We even had to say no to a couple of hospitals with such requests," he said.

The hospital used to donate 40 bottles of breast milk to Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC), but the Covid situation has led us to discontinue it, he added.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The government is hopeful of a speedy launch of single-dose COVID-19 vaccine Sputnik Light in India and all stakeholders, including the Russian manufacturer and its Indian partners, have been directed to fast-track the application and regulatory approval procedures for the jab to boost the country's vaccination drive, sources said on Thursday.

An application seeking regulatory approval for Sputnik Light is expected to be filed in the next couple of weeks and it could become the first single-dose vaccine to be launched in India, sources said citing high-level discussions held among top government officials in the recent days to boost domestic availability of COVID-19 vaccines.

At a meeting chaired by the Cabinet Secretary last week, it was suggested to immediately convene a meeting with all concerned stakeholders including the Department of Biotechnology Secretary, Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI), the Ministry of External Affairs representatives, the Union Health Ministry officials, RDIF (Russian Direct Investment Fund) and domestic manufacturers to expedite the regulatory approvals for Sputnik Light.

Also, with the rollout of Sputnik's one-dose jab, the issue of the criticality of recombinant Adenovirus Type-5 (rAd-5) component, which is used in the second dose of the presently-approved double-dose Sputnik V vaccine and for production of which manufacturers are not very comfortable, will also become redundant, sources privy to the discussions said.

ALSO READ: Karnataka's global tender for vaccines get response from two firms to supply Sputnik

On Sputnik Light, it was discussed in the meeting that Russia has already approved this vaccine and trials are ongoing in other countries.

Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) informed other participants that the application for regulatory approval of Sputnik Light is expected to be filed in the next 2-3 weeks.

It was also highlighted during the meeting that six Lakh imported double-dose of Sputnik-V will be available in May 2021, one crore imported doses in June 2021 and 2.8 crore doses (2.4 Crore imported and 40 Lakh manufactured in India) in July 2021, sources said.

August 2021 onwards, locally manufactured Sputnik V vaccine will be available in the domestic market and technology-transfer arrangement for manufacturing of Sputnik-V vaccine has been firmed up with six Indian manufacturers, sources added.

The Department of Biotechnology and the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) are in touch with all these manufacturers to provide the necessary support to them in setting up their manufacturing facilities.

ALSO READ: Vaccine tourism - Travel agency now offers 24-day Russia trip with two Sputnik-V shots

It was also flagged during one recent meeting that the domestic manufacturers are not very comfortable with the production of recombinant Adenovirus Type-5 (rAd-5) component, which is used in the second dose of vaccine, due to its low yield and their inability to fully absorb its production process.

Another round of meeting with the manufacturers and RDIF is likely to be held soon to resolve this issue.

At the same time, it was noted that the availability of single-dose Sputnik Light in the domestic market can significantly boost the country's vaccination drive.

"Besides, the issue of the criticality of rAd-5 component will also become redundant with its launch. It was, therefore, suggested that NITI Aayog may immediately convene a meeting inviting all relevant stakeholders including the DBT Secretary, DCGI, representative of MEA, representative of Health Ministry, RDIF and domestic manufacturers to expedite the regulatory approvals for Sputnik Light," another source said.

The two-dose Sputnik V had received the Indian drug regulator's permission for restricted emergency use with certain conditions on April 12.

Dr Reddy's Laboratories is importing the vaccine for use in India.

Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd had applied for the grant of permission to import and market Gam-COVID-Vac combined vector vaccine, popularly called Sputnik-V, developed by Gamaleya Institute, Russia for Emergency Use Authorization.

The Gam-COVID-Vac combined vector vaccine (Component I and Component II) has been developed by the National Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation and is approved in 30 countries across the world.

DRL has collaborated with the Russian developer for obtaining regulatory approval for import for marketing in India.

The interim results of safety immunogenicity and efficacy from the Russian phase-3 clinical trial have been published in the Lancet journal.

With many states reporting shortage of vaccines, the government is trying to secure imported jabs, including of Russia's Sputnik vaccines, while talks are also underway for COVID-19 vaccines developed by US majors Pfizer and Moderna.

Besides, the government is also looking to ramp up domestic manufacturing of vaccines, including those made by Serum Institute and Bharat Biotech, among other Indian manufacturers currently in various stages of their vaccine production.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: As many as 117 cyclones hit India in 50 years from 1970-2019 claiming over 40,000 lives, according to a study on extreme weather events, which also states the mortality rate due to tropical cyclones has come down significantly over the past 10 years.

A total of 7,063 extreme weather events killed 1,41,308 people during the period in the country, which included 40,358 (or 28 per cent) due to cyclones and 65,130 (a little over 46 per cent) due to floods, the study says.

The research paper published earlier this year has been authored by M Rajeevan, Secretary of Ministry of Earth Sciences, along with scientists Kamaljit Ray, S S Ray, R K Giri and A P Dimri.

Kamaljit Ray is the lead author of the paper.

Earlier this month, the western coast witnessed the fury of Cyclone Tauktae which hit the Gujarat coast as an extremely severe cyclonic storm, leaving a trail of destruction in several states killing nearly 50 people.

Currently, the eastern part of the country in facing 'very severe cyclonic storm' Yaas which battered the Odisha and West Bengal coasts on Wednesday before moving deeper into the country.

The study states that the number of deaths due to cyclones has come down significantly in the last two decades, whose latter years have witnessed much improvement in the IMD's weather forecast abilities.

In 1971, the study said, four tropical cyclones developed in the Bay of Bengal within a period of about six weeks --- from the end of September to the first week of November.

ALSO READ | Cyclone Yaas: Houses, shops damaged at West Bengal's Digha, small shop owners lose only source of income

Of these, the most destructive one struck the Odisha coast on the early morning of October 30, 1971 and caused very severe damage to life and property, according to the study.

About 10,000 people were reported to have lost their lives, and more than one million rendered homeless, it said.

In 1977, two tropical cyclones developed over the Bay of Bengal during November 9-20, out of which the second one (Chirala cyclone) which was a very severe tropical cyclone with a wind speed of the order of 200 kilometres per hour along with tidal waves 5 metres high, hit coastal Andhra Pradesh, the study says.

The estimated mortalities were around 10,000 and total damage to infrastructure and crops was more than USD 25 million.

The decade from 1970-1980 alone recorded over 20,000 mortalities due to cyclones.

"Overall, the analysis showed that the mortality rate associated with tropical cyclones decreased by almost 88 per cent in the last decade (2010-2019) in comparison to the earlier decade (2000-2009) despite the significant increasing trend of severe tropical cyclones during the post-monsoon season over Bay of Bengal," the paper states.

India Meteorological Department Director General Mrutunjay Mohapatra said the reasons for fatalities during cyclones have changed over the years with improvement in IMD's forecast abilities.

ALSO READ | Balasore worst-hit: One killed, lakhs affected by cyclone Yaas

Earlier, storm surge was the major reason behind fatalities, but now deaths are caused mostly by the collapse of a tree or a house now, he said.

The storms produce strong winds that push the water into the shores, which can lead to flooding.

This makes storm surges very dangerous for coastal regions.

But over a period, the forecast as well as the response to these events have changed considerably, he said, adding people are now evacuated from low-lying areas with prior warnings.

Cyclones also bring in thunderstorms, lightning and heavy rains which also prove fatal, he said.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: India is in touch with the governments of Dominica, and Antigua and Barbuda to bring back fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi from the Caribbean region, sources said on Thursday.

Choksi, who had recently fled from Antigua and Barbuda, was captured in neighbouring Dominica after an Interpol Yellow Notice was issued against him, Antiguan media reported on Wednesday.

The sources said India was in touch with Antigua and Barbuda on the matter and now contact has been established with the government of Dominica.

"We are in touch with them. Our interest in getting fugitives like Choksi and others remains strong," said a source, adding the focus has been to bring them back to the country at the earliest.

It is learnt that probe agencies are pursuing the matter of bringing back Choksi to India.

Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne said he has asked Dominica to hand the diamantaire over to India directly.

ALSO READ | Mehul Choksi can be deported only to Antigua, not to India, says his lawyer

After news of Choksi's arrest in Dominica came on Tuesday night (local time), Browne told media that he has given "clear instructions" to the Dominican authorities to repatriate Choksi to India.

"We asked them not to repatriate him to Antigua. He needs to return to India where he can face the criminal charges levelled against him," Antigua News Room, a media outlet, quoted Browne's interaction with journalists in Antigua and Barbuda.

Choksi is wanted in a Rs 13,500-crore loan fraud in the Punjab National Bank.

He was last seen going for dinner in his car in Antigua and Barbuda on Sunday.

His staff had reported him missing.

Choksi and his nephew Nirav Modi allegedly siphoned off Rs 13,500 crore of public money from the state-run Punjab National Bank (PNB) using fraudulent letters of undertaking.

Nirav Modi, lodged in a London jail, is contesting his extradition to India after repeated denial of his bail by courts.
Sumi Sukanya Dutta By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: The Union government on Thursday said that India is now seeing a stabilisation of the second wave of Covid pandemic as the active Covid cases and test positivity rate have maintained a declining trend after peaking in early May.

The active coronavirus cases, which had reached over 40 lakh-mark in the first week of this month, have seen a steep decline of 13 lakh over the last 17 days while the 7-day moving average TPR has now come down under 10% after crossing 21%.

It is reassuring that we are on the downswing of the second wave, and it will be sustained if restrictions open up systematically as the time comes, said VK Paul, member (health), Niti Aayog who also heads the national Covid task force.

The figures presented by the Union health ministry in a press briefing on Thursday showed that there is a steady decline in daily Covid cases since May 7, when India saw 414,188 people testing positive for the viral disease- the highest single day spike since the beginning of the pandemic last year.

In the last 24 hours, the country recorded 2,11,298 new Covid cases of which Tamil Nadu was the top contributor with 33,764 cases, while Kerala reported 28,798 fresh cases.

ALSO READ | Centre waives 'bridging trials' to allow foreign vaccines for emergency use

Active cases decline to 24.19 lakh marking a reduction of over 75,000 on Wednesday. However, the country also recorded 3,847 deaths due to the infectious disease of which 1,013 deaths were reported from Maharashtra alone while Karnataka saw 530 deaths and Tamil Nadu 475. The official Covid death tally in India has now crossed 3.15 lakh mark.

The recovery rate in India on May 3 was at 81.8% which went up to 85.6% on May 18 and at present, this rate is at 90%.

This is a positive indication, said Lav Agarwal, joint secretary in the health ministry while urging that infected patients under home isolation and admitted in hospitals should be continuously monitored.

In another good sign, after a continued slump in daily Covid vaccinations, vaccination figures too have improved and till 7 pm on Thursday, a total of 26,58,218 vaccine doses were administered of which 24,81,196 beneficiaries were vaccinated for 1st dose and 1,77,022 beneficiaries received 2nd dose of vaccine as per the provisional reports.

The cumulative vaccination coverage in India is now more than 20.54 crore, even though less than 4.5 % of the adult population in the country has completed two dose regimens of the vaccine yet.

Since the Covid vaccination drive was opened for the 18-44 year age group, 1,51,52,040 across 37 states in this category have received vaccines.
By Express News Service

The residents of Lakshadweep and political parties have launched a #SaveLakshadweep campaign demanding the recall of administrator Praful Khoda Patel. The islanders allege that the reforms introduced by Patel, after he took over in December 2020, are detrimental to the traditional social, cultural and economic character of the Union territory. Opposition parties including the Congress allege that the unilateral decisions of the administrator will destroy the cultural heritage of Lakshadweep and affect peoples livelihoods. A look

WHO IS PRAFUL K PATEL?

Praful Khoda Patel, who is the administrator of the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, was given the additional charge of Lakshadweep in December following the death of then administrator Dineshwar Sharma. Praful is a BJP leader from Gujarat and had served as the Minister of State for Home in the Narendra Modi-led state government in Gujarat for two years

1. Prohibition of slaughter without certificate from competent authority

Praful Patel has proposed the Lakshadweep Animal Preservation Regulation, 2021, which bans slaughter of the cow, calf, bull and bullocks. Animals should be slaughtered only at places specified for the purpose. The sale and purchase of beef and beef products are banned under the proposed law. Persons who slaughter animals without a certificate are liable to be punished with imprisonment extending to one year and a fine of up to Rs 10,000. Besides, in February, mutton and chicken were removed from schools midday meal menus. Children had been provided nonvegetarian meals at Anganwadis till then

2. Land regulations

The draft Lakshadweep Development Authority Regulation proposes changes in the existing land ownership and usage by giving sweeping, arbitrary and unchecked powers to the government to directly interfere with the islanders right to possess and retain their property. It empowers the government to pick any land for development activities Activities including building, engineering, mining, quarrying and other operations have been listed under development activities

3. Prevention of Anti-Social Activities Act, 2021

The proposed law gives powers to detain a person without any public disclosure for a period of up to one year. Locals fear that bill will pave the way for detention without a trial and say that such a harsh law is not required. The island has a negligible crime rate, all the more reason why the law is suspect

4. Bar on election contest

The draft Lakshadweep Panchayat Regulation, 2021 says if a resident has more than two children, he/she cannot contest a panchayat election. No person who has more than two children shall be a member of a gram panchayat or continue as such... the draft text of the regulation says

5. Plan to allow sale of liquor

The administrator allowed sale of liquor at hotels and resorts in three islands in the name of tourism promotion. The Muslim majority island territory has remained a nonalcoholic zone for decades. Liquor

sale was allowed only in Bangaram islands till now. Liquor was not allowed in other islands and travellers were not allowed to carry liquor

6. Winding up of dairy farms

Dairy farms operated by the Animal Husbandry department have been shut down. On May 21, dairy farms of the local government were also ordered shut; all animals are to be auctioned by May 31

7. Coastal regulation

The island administration has demolished huts erected by fishermen along the coastline alleging violation of Coastal Regulation Zone and Coast Guard Act. These sheds were built by fisherfolk to keep their nets and fishing gear. The sheds were constructed under an exemption provided to the fisherfolk

8.Cargo diverted to Mangaluru

The administration has diverted freight transit to Mangaluru, ending the trade ties between the islands and Kerala. The islanders depend on ports of Beypore and Kochi for logistics and medical facilities

9. Termination of services of employees

Services of hundreds of contract labourers working under various departments of the Union territory have been terminated. Casual and contractual workers of various government offices have been dismissed. The recruitment rules will be reviewed where the educational qualifications do not match the latest developments

10.Change in SOP for emergency evacuation

The administration has changed the standard operating procedure for emergency evacuation of patients. As per the order, all uncomplicated orthopaedic cases including hip fracture should be sent by ship. Medical officer should ensure that no cases other than emergency one are referred to for transfer by special sortie helicopter

11. Covid spread

Lakshadweep had remained a Covid-19 green zone during the first wave of the pandemic, with the first case being reported only on January 18, 2021. Protesters allege that the changes in quarantine and

travel rules effected by the thennew administrator led to rapid spread of the coronavirus disease.

The islands have so far reported 7,111 cases, of which 2,320 are active. As many as 26 people have

died due to the disease

WHATS HAPPENING NOW

The Lakshadweep administration has called an all-party meeting on May 27 to discuss the issues raised by residents. Representatives of the Congress, NCP and BJP will attend the meeting, which will be held online

The Congress has written to President Ram Nath Kovind seeking his intervention in recalling Patel

People of Lakshdweep have approached United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres, as well

as the United Nations Permanent Forum for Indigenous Issues, against the actions of the new administrator

#SaveLakshadweep campaign has been trending on social media since May 23. Many prominent personalities and celebrities have come forward in extending their support to the campaign
By PTI

BARASAT: A huge fire broke out in a building that housed a few godowns in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district in the early hours of Thursday and fire officials were battling the blaze even after 18 hours.

Though the spread of flames was contained, pockets of smouldering fire continued to flare up inside the building which housed a vest manufacturing unit, Fire Services minister Sujit Bose told PTI.

Bose said he was informed that "two to four people may be inside when the fire broke out.

"I have been told by family members of one worker and others present at site that two to four persons are inside the building, but fire services personnel have not been able to confirm it yet," he said.

Fire services personnel said the fire broke out at around 2 am in the building, located in Bilkanda area, around 15 km from Kolkata.

At least 11 fire tenders were sent to fight the blaze, Fire Department officials said.

"There are inflammable materials inside which helped spread the fire fast," Bose said.
By PTI

INDORE: Police have not found any evidence of spying for Pakistan against two women who were questioned over the last one week for their alleged involvement in suspicious activities in an Army area at Mhow in Madhya Pradesh, an official said.

It has come to light during the probe into the matter that the two women were possibly getting phone calls from some people from Pakistan, Indore Crime Branch's Additional Superintendent of Police Guruprasad Parashar told reporters on Wednesday evening.

"However, we have not found any evidence that the women were spying for Pakistan in Mhow's Army cantonment area," he said.

The two women, aged between 25 and 30, and a man were extensively questioned by police and intelligence agencies over the last one week, but they were not arrested, he said.

According to the official, the women, both residents of Lakshmi Vihar colony at Gawli Palasiya village in Mhow, located about 37 km from here, got acquainted with some people suspected to be Pakistanis through a matrimonial website.

From their social media chats, it appears to be a case of love affair which could have resulted in marriage, he said.

"It seems a big gang involved in spying for Pakistan was trying to trap the women.

But, the police through swift action saved them from it," the official said.

He also said that all technical evidences pertaining to the women were probed thoroughly and an inquiry was also conducted into their bank accounts.

Based on the result of the investigation into the matter, no criminal case has been registered against the women, he added.

PTI HWP LAL GK GK 05271237 NNNN
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Despite Covid-19 vaccinations being thrown open to all above the age of 18 on May 1, there has been a 40% decline in the average daily number of vaccinations administered this month compared to the previous month.

An analysis of the government data by this newspaper showed that a total of 8,91,01,433 vaccine doses were administered in April to people from various age groups across the country, at an average rate of 29,70,047 doses per day. In comparison, between May 1 and 25, only 4,40,24,631 jabs were administeredan average rate of 17,60,985 shots per day. In other words, this is 40.7% lower than the average daily vaccination rate recorded in April.

The figures by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare meanwhile underlined that India has vaccinated 20 crore people as of Wednesday morning130 days after India began vaccinating its people against Covid-19. More than 34% of the population above the age of 45 has received at least one dose of a vaccine to date. Indias adult population is about 94 crore while the vaccine production capacity is about eight crore doses per month.

As of now, India has approved three vaccinesCovaxin, Covishield, and Russias Sputnik Vagainst Covid-19. Efforts to procure other vaccines from abroad are yet to yield any concrete results. It is unclear why only 4.4 crore vaccine doses were administered so far this month despite the production capacity far exceeding this number.

Meanwhile, experts stress a quick expansion of the vaccination drive is important to reduce the number of deaths caused by Covid-19. The more people in the vulnerable groups or people with risk factors being unvaccinated would have an impact on the mortality, said Oommen John, a public health researcher. Evidence from elsewhere indicates that vaccination coverage has an impact on transmission, John said.
Rajesh Kumar Thakur By

Express News Service

PATNA: Girls and boys, living in more than five dozen state government-run institutions, including specialised adoption agencies (SAA), are being encouraged through a first-of-its-kind initiative to develop their reading habit, in addition, to become economically self-reliant.

After arranging vocational training for a number of girls living in Bihar's different "girls homes" (GHs) in hotel management and other vocational skills, now the social welfare department in Bihar has started setting up a library in each child care institution.

Sharing detail, the director of the social welfare department of the govt of Bihar, Raj Kumar said: "We have 70 child care institutions including girls home, the boys home, observation home and SAA. And out of them, 35 have already established good libraries".

A couple of days ago, one such library was inaugurated at the girls' home in the Kishanganj district by the DM and the SP together.

There are 11 girls' homes in Bihar now of which 350 girls are living and getting educationally empowered.

"There is a plan to set up a well-equipped library with a rich collection of books ranging from classrooms to competitive levels. The newspapers, magazines, and other journals are being made available to the inmates of girls and boys homes", Kumar said.

Prior to this initiative, aimed at exploring reading and comprehension intelligence by inculcating a good reading habit, a good number of inmates of the state's various homes were sent for vocational training in Bangalore and Kolkata.

"Many of them have exhibited their brilliant culinary talents besides arts and other vocational skills. Financial support would be arranged for them through the bank at the government's initiative to make them economically empowered, the director said.

Besides all this, the Bihar government has started providing normal gym facilities to boys and girls, nutritious foods including chayavanprash and others in their daily food menu. The interior decorations in almost all homes are being given aesthetical touches in order to enhance the creative ambiance inside the homes.

"The inmates of both boys and girls homes are exhibiting their brilliance in drawing paintings, wall paintings and other creative pursuits", said the director.
By PTI

CHANDIGARH: Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh Sidhu on Thursday mocked SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal for criticising the state government on vaccine procurement issue, claiming that the former deputy chief minister got a "vaccine worth Rs 62,000" administered after he tested positive for COVID-19.

Sidhu's remarks were in response to Badal's criticism of the Punjab government.

The minister did not elaborate but appeared to be referring to the recently-introduced Roche's antibodies cocktail drug priced at Rs 59,750 per dose launched this week in India.

It is for restricted emergency use to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 in adults and paediatric patients (12 years or weighing more than at least 40 kg).

However, the drug was not available in the country when Badal had tested positive for COVID-19 in March.

The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on Tuesday said when the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) was able to procure Covaxin doses within one week of placing the order then why the Amarinder Singh-led dispensation could not do so.

He had alleged that the Congress-led government lacked the intention to procure vaccines for people of the state.

"Do not compare Sukhbir Singh Badal with the state government. He says too much and he had earlier spoken a lot as well and even now. Sukhbir Badal had himself got a vaccine worth Rs 62,000 administered. Has he got Rs 62,000 worth a jab administered to the people of Punjab," he asked while talking to reporters here.

Sidhu was replying to a question when asked that Badal had said if the SGPC could procure vaccine doses then why the state government could not do so.

"He (Sidhu) is completely wrong in saying this," Sidhu, adding that the state government has also been procuring vaccines every day.

The health minister, however, welcomed the SGPC for coming forward to assist in the fight against COVID-19.

The SGPC, which is to start a vaccination drive next week, has also set up some Covid care centres in the state.

On the issue of black fungus or mucormycosis, Sidhu said that the state government could get only 1,000 injections against the demand for 15,000 doses raised with the Centre, which were insufficient.

"We are putting pressure on the central government to give us more injections," he said.

To a question on vaccines, the minister said that Punjab was facing a shortage of the vaccine.

"We are not getting that much supply of vaccine doses which match our requirements which is a matter of concern. Every day we go hand to mouth," said Sidhu.

Around 47 lakh people have been vaccinated so far, he said.

To another question on wastage of vaccines, Sidhu said, "There can be-one-and-a-half per cent wastage. They (Centre) themselves say 10 per cent. But we are not going to allow any wastage, which is like expiry date or anything else. If there is a breakage in any injection then it is a separate issue. Otherwise, we do not allow any wastage."
Rajesh Asnani By

Express News Service

JAIPUR: The Rajasthan government has ordered an audit of Covid fatalities in the state in a bid to reveal the truth about Covid and non-Covid deaths. Sources said the government decision came following media reports that the number of Covid deaths is much higher than the official figure. State Health Minister Raghu Sharma said there was no question of hiding data.

According to the Rajasthan Health Department, since March 2020, there have been 7,911 Covid deaths in the state. This year April and May recorded the highest number of 5,093 deaths. A total of 2,818 deaths occurred in the preceding 13 months. These include a total of 1,632 deaths in the four months of August, September, October, November 2020 and 1,186 deaths in nine months.

But a mismatch persists between government figures and others recorded or reported by other bodies. The difference is sought to be explained on the basis of Corona patients who died while undergoing treatment at home and in rural areas where government records are either not kept or the detailing is sketchy. In Rajasthan, the UK strain of Covid which spreads rapidly is proving devastating in rural areas.

Health officials confirm that nearly 40% of new cases and 40% of deaths in the state are now being recorded in villages. In Nagaur district, rural areas have seen a large number of casualties over the past fortnight. In particular, three villages with population ranging between five and 12 thousand have seen a string of deaths.

Badu village saw 19 deaths, Janjeela 17 while Harnawa saw 13 fatalities in a span of a fortnight. Of the total deaths, 18 were confirmed as Covid fatalities while the rest are seen as caused by breathing troubles.

The government says a survey is necessary for the social security scheme as well. The state has announced a Social Security Policy on the death of an earning member of a family from Covid-19.

Full transparency: CM

CM Ashok Gehlot said his government is fighting the Covid battle with full transparency. The survey will be conducted at a large scale as the second wave has claimed more lives in villages.
By PTI

JAIPUR: Rajasthan Health Minister Raghu Sharma on Thursday said the state government may move the Supreme Court like other states if the Centre does not invite global tender for procuring coronavirus vaccine.

"The state is getting Indian vaccines at cheaper cost that are being made available by the Centre whereas it's costing high through global tender. To avoid such dispute Centre should invite global tender. If it does not do so then state government may move Supreme Court like other states," he said.

He said that to increase the supply of vaccines, global tenders were issued by the state government in which nine companies participated including vendors of an Indian vaccine manufacturer.

Sharma said that the vaccination process has slowed down in the state as vaccine supply from manufacturers is short.

He said the Centre had allocated 12.66 lakh dose quota to the state for the month of June whereas the state requires 7 crore doses for vaccination of 18 to 44 year age group.

State government has given an order of Rs 59 crore for vaccine supply but it is very limited from manufacturing companies, the minister said.

He said that on an average 80,000 tests are being done daily by the state government and it intends to increase the number in the coming days.

The health minister said that in view of the possible third wave of coronavirus, the medical department has started preparations.

He said that on the instructions of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, the number of ICU beds is being increased in all paediatric hospitals and other units of the state.

In addition, the work on oxygen generation plant and centralised oxygen system is underway, the minister added.
Rajesh Asnani By

Express News Service

JAIPUR: The Rajasthan High Court has asked the Central Government to furnish a factual report on the availability of vaccines to the state government for Pakistani Migrants settled in Rajasthan who do not have prescribed identity cards. The Court has also asked the State and the District administration to chalk out a plan for vaccinating the Pakistani Hindu Migrants settled in Rajasthan, further ordering the Gehlot government to provide food on a priority basis to them during the lockdown.

While the Indian citizens over 18 are being vaccinated against coronavirus, the Pakistani Hindu migrants living in Rajasthan are being turned away from vaccine centers as they do not have Aadhaar cards. Activists had claimed that 10 Pakistani Hindu migrants have succumbed to Covid due to lack of medical facilities.

In all, 50 people had been found positive while 1,500 people have an influenza-like illness. But none of them received any medical attention.

A bench of Justice Vijay Vishnoi and Justice Rameshwar Vyaas on Thursday heard the case. On behalf of Pakistani migrants, it was submitted that in the absence of an Aadhaar card, the eligible Pakistani migrants were deprived of vaccination. Seemant Loksanghthan, an NGO working for the rights of Pakistani migrants, had requested to vaccinate all the eligible migrants but the same has not been taken into consideration.

ALSO READ | Pakistani Hindu migrants in Rajasthan appeal to PM Modi for vaccination based on travel documents

Further, Mukesh Rajpurohit, ASG, and Vipul Singhvi, ASG, had submitted that the Centre had already issued an SOP on Covid vaccination of persons without identity cards thorough CO-WIN.

Court directed AAG KS Rajpurohit to apprise it about the steps taken by the district administration in pursuance of the SOP dated May 6 issued by the central government regarding vaccination of those who do not have any prescribed ID cards.

Rajasthan's Jodhpur district is the biggest hub for Pakistani migrants in the country. More than 30,000 Pakistani Hindu migrants are living in Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Jaisalmer waiting for their citizenship.

The court observed that it is a serious issue and no person residing in the state can be allowed to starve due to non-availability of food. It directed the State Government to furnish a report regarding the availability of ration to the Pakistani migrants residing in Jodhpur by May 28.
The name Westime is known in its native Los Angeles as the place where celebrities and star athletes get their wristwear (especially when showing a discreet interest in timepieces beyond their current ambassadorship deals). The four Westime boutiques (Rodeo Drive, Sunset Boulevard, La Jolla and Miami in the US) are emporia of fine watchmaking, with brands ranging from Grand Seiko to MB&F.

Within the industry, Westime is known as the retail operations of the Simonian family. John Simonian, founder of Westime, was born in Lebanon and moved to Switzerland before finally settling in the US in 1986, where a year later he established what would become the most prestigious watch retail business on the West Coast. Since he founded Westime 33 years ago, Simonian has drawn respect and admiration (and not a little jealousy) from industry peers who recognise his keen business acumen and, above all, his uncanny sixth sense of which new up-and-coming brands will be tomorrows household names.

John & Greg Simonian  Westime

To that end, he expanded the family business into distribution, introducing the North American market to brands such as Richard Mille, Greubel Forsey and Urwerk. As the distributor of Richard Mille in the US and Canada, with controlling rights to brand distribution in the Western Hemisphere, Simonian is rightly seen as one of the international watch markets key strategic personalities and the gatekeeper of modern horologys most alluring brands, fully deserving of a spot on the GPHG Jury in 2011.

His son, Greg Simonian, was officially named President of Westime in 2010, having grown up immersed in the family business, and selling his first watch at the age of 12. Representing the fourth generation of his family in the watch industry, Greg has been the primary driver of Westimes move into local and national charitable initiatives, transforming the company into a pillar of the community on top of already being an essential player in commerce. As the man responsible for all of Westimes monobrand boutiques across the US (representing Richard Mille, Audemars Piguet and Breitling), Greg exerts significant influence in shaping the consumer market in what is still one of Swiss watchmakings most important regions  North America.

*On the occasion of GMT Magazine and WorldTempus' 20th anniversary, we have embarked on the ambitious project of summarising the last 20 years in watchmaking in The Millennium Watch Book, a big, beautifully laid out coffee table book. This article is an extract. The Millennium Watch Book is available on www.the-watch-book.com, in French and English, with a 10% discount if you use the following code: WT2021.

Order now
By PTI

MUMBAI: NCP president Sharad Pawar met Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and discussed the political situation in the state and the Maha Vikas Aghadi government's handling of the COVID-19 situation.

The meeting took place late Wednesday evening at the chief minister's official residence 'Varsha' in Mumbai, sources said on Thursday.

This was the first meeting between the two leaders after Pawar (80) recovered from his gall bladder surgery.

ALSO READ | Congress threatens to pull down Uddhav Thackeray government if demands are not met

The Shiv Sena, led by Thackeray, shares power with the NCP and Congress in Maharashtra.

The deliberationswere centred around political developments in the state, NCP sources said.

The two leaders discussed the MVA government's management of COVID-19, they said.

Pawar expressed satisfaction over the government's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and implementation of the lockdown-like restrictions to contain the second wave of the viral infection, the sources said.

Issues like the easing of restrictions and reservation in promotions in government jobs are likely to figure in the cabinet meeting scheduled later on Thursday, they said.

The Maharashtra government earlier this month extended the lockdown-like restrictions in the state till June 1 to break the chain of COVID-19.

Pawar underwent the gall bladder surgery at a private hospital in Mumbai last month.

Earlier, the NCP president had undergone an emergency endoscopy for the removal of a stone from his bile duct on March 30.
By Express News Service

LUCKNOW: While backing Yoga Guru Ramdev over his controversial remarks against allopathic medicine and doctors, a ruling BJP MLA from East Uttar Pradeshs Ballia district has accused some allopathic doctors of turning rakshas (demons) by even earning money by showing dead patients as alive.

The BJP MLA, Surendra Singh, defended Ramdevs recent statements.

I support Ramdev Babas arguments. He is furthering not his medical system, but instead promoting the ancient Ayurvedic medical system, so his arguments need to be supported.

ALSO READ | IMA files police complaint against Ramdev, seeks FIR over his 'wrongful' representation on allopathy

Relying on the Ayurvedic medical system will turn our country into Swasthya Bharat Samarth Bharat (healthy India-capable India). After retiring from politics, the lone mission of my life will be to promote Yoga and Ayurveda to make India healthy and capable, Singh said, while supporting the Yoga Gurus statements.

The first-time BJP legislator added, I dont say that allopathic medicine is bad or good work hasnt been done in it. But in allopathic medicine, many doctors have turned rakshas (demons) by showing dead patients as alive in Intensive Care Units (ICU) just to earn money.

While I welcome and appreciate the services of allopathic doctors working honestly and sincerely for patient care, I also condemn greedy and corrupt allopathic doctors, Singh said.

ALSO READ | Ramdev's aide Acharya Balkrishna accuses IMA president of conspiring to convert India to christianity

Importantly, just a few weeks back, the same BJP politician had appealed to people to drink gau mutra (cow urine) to defeat COVID-19 and even put up a video showing him drinking cow urine, to demonstrate to people how to drink cow urine.

In October last year, the same legislator had reportedly defended a local party leader Dhirendra Pratap Singh, who had allegedly shot dead a 46-year-old man in Ballia district following a quarrel over the public allotment of ration shops. He had defended the local BJP leader by saying that it was an act of self-defense.

Only a month prior to it, Singh had also reportedly made a controversial remark on the Hathras gang rape case, saying that incident like that could be stopped with help of good values. All parents should teach their daughters good values, Singh had said.
By ANI

NEW DELHI: Why is India, one of the largest manufacturers of vaccines in the world, facing a scarcity today?, asked Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday, hitting out at the Centre for its management of the COVID-19 vaccination process.

In a video captioned 'The Government of India owes the people of India answers,' she asked why the government had placed its first vaccine order only in January this year.

"Why is India, one of the largest manufacturers of vaccines in the world facing a scarcity today? Why was the first order or vaccines by the government of India placed in January 2021 when other countries began placing their orders in the summer of 2020?"

She further asked, "Why did our government export six crore vaccines between January and March 2021 while vaccinating only 3.5 crore Indians during the same period of time. The government of India owes the people of India answers. We have to ask them questions and they have to answer us."

ALSO READ | Pfizer vaccine should be procured as soon as possible to vaccinate children: Kejriwal

The Congress leader had criticised the Centre earlier as well for the country's dearth of COVID-19 vaccines.

Earlier in April, she had tweeted, "Shocking that while COVID ravages India, from being a vaccine exporter, it has been compelled to become a vaccine importer undoing 70 years of govt effort. @narendramodi: the pilot who had his photo plastered on boarding passes only to press the eject button during an emergency."

India has so far administered 20,26,95,874 doses of the COVID-19 vaccines, the Union Health Ministry informed.

Vaccination centres across the countries have been forced to shut down over the last few days due to a country-wide shortage. Several states, including Punjab, Kerala, Maharashtra, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand and Karnataka, among others, have floated global tenders for COVID-19 vaccines.

ALSO READ | Only PM's photo on vaccination certificate, responsibility on states: Priyanka's scathing attack on Modi

Vaccine manufacturer Moderna has allegedly refused to send vaccines directly to the Punjab government, Chief Minister Amarinder Singh informed last week. Delhi too has received the same response from Pfizer and Moderna.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal informed on Wednesday that Sputnik V makers have agreed to supply vaccines in Delhi.

Chief Ministers of several states have urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to float tenders at the Central level.
By PTI

KOLKATA: Hundreds of people complained that they had to go without food and sleep in the aftermath of cyclone, which has wreaked havoc in Bengal, as their homes lay inundated amid heavy showers that continued to pummel several parts of the state on Thursday.

Cyclone 'Yaas', which made its landfall near Dhamra port in Odisha, barrelled through the neighbouring state and Bengal on Wednesday, causing widespread destruction as it hollered on its path to Jharkhand.

Officials said that the administration was trying its best to reach out to people in need, but the inclement weather is impeding relief work in certain pockets.

At Kadupara village in Sunderbans area of South 24 Parganas, water has risen to waist level, forcing people to step out of their homes with children in tow.

"No one from the administration has visited us yet...I am starving, these children are starving," Lakshmi Majhi, a resident of Kadupara said, as she stood on the flooded courtyard outside her house with her three children.

Majhi further said, "We were asked by the administration to rush to nearby school camp. But how can we go? It will take me 30 minutes to reach the camp. How will I wade through the flooded roads with my children, leaving my home and belongings behind?" Bapan Laskar, a migrant worker of the same village, said he was finding it difficult to make ends meet in the midst of the lockdown, and the cyclone has added to his woes.

"I work as a mason in Kolkata, but the COVID-induced lockdown robbed me of my livelihood. This cyclone, on top of that, has partially damaged my home. I do not know what to do," Laskar, who lives with his ailing parents, said.

In cyclone-ravaged Kultali, villagers were seen lining up on the elevated pavements, most of them without masks, even as water levels kept rising due to the incessant rainfall.

"Saline water from the sea gushed in, breaching the embankments, and destroyed crops that we had taken pains to grow. Almost every villager in the area depends on fishing and farming. With ponds and farmlands flooded with saline water, residents here are now staring at an uncertain future," one of the villagers lamented.

Kultali MLA Ganesh Chandra Mondal, however, said that disaster management personnel have fanned out to the affected areas in South 24 Parganas to shift all marooned villagers to relief camps, set up in school buildings.

Similar tales of misery were shared by people in Purba Medinipur district, which, too, bore the brunt of the storm.

In the tourist town of Digha, one of the worst-affected areas in the state, shops selling knick-knacks close to the beach lay ravaged, with shells, junk jewelleries and other decorative items seen floating in the flood water.

Several hotels in Mandarmoni, another resort town, also suffered extensive damage.

In Shankarpur, roads in certain areas were reduced to patches of boulders with telltale signs of destruction around.

A Digha Development Authority official said work to repair damaged structures would begin in a day or two.

Mamoni Das of Ramnagar in Purba Medinipur broke down when reporters approached her.

Das, a middle-aged widow with no children, said she was rescued by Army personnel after the squall on Wednesday morning flattened her home in a trice.

"I am thriving on puffed rice that I managed to get from a nearby relief camp. With everything lost, I do not know how to rebuild my life," she added.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Gloves were off on Thursday as the spat between Twitter and the Union Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) turned ugly, with the former calling out the Centre's new regulatory regime and the latter saying the platform has no locus in dictating India's legal policy framework. Both claimed their goal was to protect the users privacy and the freedom of speech and expression.

With Twitter claiming it was being intimidated by the Delhi Police for flagging BJP leader Sambit Patra's tweet on an alleged Congress toolkit as 'manipulated media', the latter piled on it, calling the statement mendacious and "designed to seek dubious sympathy and impede a lawful enquiry".

"Twitter Inc. has taken upon itself, in the garb of terms of service, to adjudicate the truth or otherwise of documents in public space. Twitter is purporting to be both an investigating authority as well as an adjudicating judicial authority. It has no legal sanction to be either. The only legal entity... to investigate is the police and to adjudicate is the courts," said Delhi Police spokesperson Chenmoy Biswal.

ALSO READ | BJPs souring social media affinity

The ministry said the company is refusing to comply with those very regulations in the intermediary guidelines on the basis of which it is claiming a safe harbour from any criminal liability in India. The Centre said that Twitter's statement is an attempt to dictate its terms to the world's largest democracy.

The ministry charged Twitter with being complacent in taking action against those who incited violence during the Red Fort violence, promoting vaccine hesitancy through its platform as well as showing Ladakh a part of China during the border disputes between two countries. It asked Twitter to stop beating around the bush and comply with the laws of land. "Twitter is just a social media platform and it has no locus in dictating what Indias legal policy framework should be," the ministry said.

Earlier in the day, Twitter said it is planning to advocate changes in the core elements of the recently-framed social intermediary guidelines. "To keep our service available, we will strive to comply with applicable law in India. But, just as we do around the world, we will continue to be strictly guided by principles of transparency, a commitment to empowering every voice on the service, and protecting freedom of expression and privacy under the rule of law," the company said in a statement.



Anatomy of the confrontation in three statements - the Delhi Police's, Centre's and Twitter's

Delhi Police's Full Statement:

We have come across press reports that quote Twitter Inc. statements pertaining to the ongoing inquiry by Delhi Police.

Prima facie, these statements are not only mendacious but designed to impede a lawful inquiry by a private enterprise. Twitter Inc. has taken upon itself, in the garb of terms of service, to adjudicate the truth or otherwise of documents in public space.

Twitter Inc. is purporting to be both an investigating authority as well as an adjudicating judicial authority. It has no legal sanction to be either. The only legal entity, so empowered by the duly laid down law, to investigate is the Police and to adjudicate is the Courts.

However, since Twitter Inc. claims to have material information basis which it not only investigated but arrived at a conclusion, it must share that information with the Police. There should not be any confusion about this logical course.

The entire conduct by Twitter Inc, including its Indian entity, in the last few days has been obfuscatory, diversionary and tendentious. There is one simple thing to do which Twitter refuses to do. That is, cooperate with the law enforcement and reveal to the legal authority the information it has.

Twitter, being a public platform, must lead by example in demonstrating transparency in its functioning which has a bearing on public discourse and should proactively bring clarity into what are subject matters of public domain.

Since the matter has been put in public domain, it is important to set the record straight on the tendentious statements made.

First, Delhi police has registered a preliminary inquiry at the instance of a complaint filed by the representative of the Indian National Congress. Hence, the efforts by Twitter Inc. that portray that this as an FIR filed at the behest of the Government of India is wholly and completely incorrect.

Second, Delhi Police is conducting a preliminary inquiry on the same and the matter is under investigation. Twitter Inc., while placing the cart before the horse, went ahead and declared that the toolkit was Manipulated Media. This clearly demonstrates that Twitter Inc. was acquainted with the facts of the case and it had material information which was germane to the inquiry by a duly recognized law enforcement agency. Therefore, Twitter was asked, by way of multiple communications, to join the inquiry to provide the information it possesses.



Third, the purpose of Twitter being served a notice to participate in the inquiry was to allow the investigation to process to proceed and bring all relevant matters on record. Twitter Indias subsidiary, TCIPLs Managing Director, chose to adopt a path of evasiveness instead of cooperation.

Initially, TCIPLs Managing Director stated in his response that he was merely a sales head, had no role whatsoever in any operations relating to content and thereby refused to join the inquiry. It is to be noted that TCIPLs stance that its Managing Director is a mere sales head runs contrary to his very own previous press interviews wherein he elaborately discussed Twitters plan to devise methods to identify abusive/ manipulative content. The above interview makes it clear, that Twitter Indias convoluted stance is similar to a deer caught in the headlights.

Fourth and last, the contrived fear-mongering by Twitter Inc. unfounded and misplaced. The Managing Director of TCIPL was merely served a notice, not as an accused but to participate in the inquiry as Twitter claims to have been acquainted with certain facts.

Twitter's Incs latest statements are devised to seek dubious sympathy when they themselves not only refuse to comply with the law of the land but also claim to be possession of material evidence but refuse to share it with legal authority duly recognized.

Government of India's statement:

The Government strongly controverts the claims made by Twitter today in its press release. India has a glorious tradition of free speech and democratic practices dating back centuries. Protecting free speech in India is not the prerogative of only a private, for-profit, foreign entity like Twitter, but it is the commitment of the worlds largest democracy and its robust institutions.

Twitters statement is an attempt to dictate its terms to the worlds largest democracy. Through its actions and deliberate defiance, Twitter seeks to undermine Indias legal system. Furthermore, Twitter refuses to comply with those very regulations in the Intermediary Guidelines on the basis of which it is claiming a safe harbour protection from any criminal liability in India.

The larger question is if Twitter is so committed then why it did not set up such a mechanism in India on its own? Twitter representatives in India routinely claim that they have no authority and that they and the people of India need to escalate everything to the Twitter Headquarter in USA. The purported commitment of Twitter, to its Indian user base, thus not only sounds hollow but completely self-serving.

Twitter has a large user base in India, it earns significant revenue from its Indian operations but is also the most reluctant to appoint an India-based grievance redressal officer and mechanism, chief compliance officer and nodal officer to whom its own users can complain when they are subjected to offensive Tweets.

The Rules empower the ordinary users who become victims of defamation, morphed images, sexual abuse and the whole range of other abusive content in blatant violation of law, to seek redress.

These Rules were finalized after widest possible consultations including with representatives of social media platforms. Ministry of Electronics and IT put the draft Rules in public domain and invited public comments. The Ministry received large number of comments from individuals, civil society, industry associations and organizations. A significant number of counter comments to these comments were also received. There are also various judicial orders by various courts including the Supreme Court of India directing the Government to take appropriate steps. There are also several Parliamentary debates and recommendations to take appropriate measures.

Freedom of Speech and Expression is a Fundamental Right under the Indian Constitution. The Government of India respects the right of people to ask questions and also criticize on these social media platforms including on Twitter. The Government equally respects the right of privacy. However, the only instance of scuttling free speech on Twitter is Twitter itself and its opaque policies, as a result of which peoples accounts are suspended and tweets deleted arbitrarily without recourse.

Twitter needs to stop beating around the bush and comply with the laws of the land. Law making and policy formulations is the sole prerogative of the sovereign and Twitter is just a social media platform and it has no locus in dictating what should Indias legal policy framework should be.

Twitter has claimed that it is committed to the people of India. Ironically, this commitment of Twitter has been most invisible in recent times. It is pertinent to share some recent examples:

Twitter chose to show the geo-location of certain locations in Union Territory of Ladakh as part of Peoples Republic of China at a time when India and China were engaged in peaceful resolution of border-related issues through bilateral dialogue. Twitter took several days, that too only after repeated reminders, to rectify this blatant disrespect to Indias sensitivity and territorial integrity.

Twitter chose to take suo-moto action against those users who it considered as perpetrators of violence at the Capitol Hill in the USA. But, just a few days after the unlawful incidents on Red Fort in Delhi, Twitter refused to take prompt action on the lawful request made by the Government of India to block contents that sought to incite violence on the pretext of a fake genocide plan. Later, it chose to comply, that too partially, .when the damage had been done.

Twitters lack of responsibility has led to rampant proliferation of fake and harmful content against India and Indians. Promoting vaccine hesitancy has been rampantly done through the use of Twitter platform and yet Twitter has taken no action. Is this commitment to the people of India?

Discriminatory behavior has been practiced against Indians and people of Indian origin because of malicious tagging of B.1.617 mutant as Indian variant name despite strict WHO guidelines against it. Again, Twitter has taken no action against such fake narratives and Tweets while grandiosely claiming to serve the people of India.

Twitter Inc., a USA-based private company, in its communique says that it seeks "constructive dialogue", "collaborative approach" from the government of a sovereign democratic republic to "safeguard interests of the public". It is time that Twitter disabuses itself of this grandiosity and comply with the laws of India.

The Government also wishes to emphatically assure that representatives of social media companies including Twitter are and will always remain safe in India and there is no threat to their personal safety and security.

Government condemns the unfortunate statement issued by Twitter as totally baseless, false and an attempt to defame India to hide their own follies.

The Delhi Police has also issued a detailed press release, pertaining to an ongoing investigation, which answer the completely baseless allegations raised by Twitter.

Twitter's statement:

Twitter is deeply committed to the people of India. Our service has proven vital for public conversation and a source of support for people during the pandemic. Right now, we are concerned by recent events regarding our employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people we serve.

We, alongside many in civil society in India and around the world, have concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police in response to enforcement of our global Terms of Service, as well as with core elements of the new IT Rules. We plan to advocate for changes to elements of these regulations that inhibit free, open public conversation. We will continue our constructive dialogue with the Indian Government and believe it is critical to adopt a collaborative approach. It is the collective responsibility of elected officials, industry, and civil society to safeguard the interests of the public.
By PTI

PUNE: Pimpri Chinchwad Police in Pune district has arrested the son of NCP MLA Anna Bansode in a case of attempt to murder and kidnapping, an official said on Thursday.

The case was registered on a complaint by Tanaji Pawar, manager at a solid waste management firm who himself was arrested for allegedly opening fire on the premises of the Pimpri MLA's office on May 12.

Pawar claimed that two of Bansode's men kidnapped him from his office in the Akurdi area on the morning of May 12 and took him to a place in Chinchwad where Sidharth Bansode (21), the MLA's son, and 10 to 15 others thrashed him using iron rods, leather belts and sticks.

Pawar was accused of firing two shots on the premises of Bansode's office on the same afternoon and arrested.

"We have arrested Siddharth Bansode and three others from Ratnagiri. A total of 13 persons have been arrested now," said deputy commissioner of police Manchak Ipper.

The MLA claimed that his personal assistant had called Pawar to ask the firm's owner to provide two persons jobs.

Pawar came to his office with two others and following an argument over the issue inside his (MLA's) cabin, Pawar came out and opened fire, Bansode claimed.
S Gurumurthy By

Even now, what the world knows about the mysterious virus 18 months after it broke out in Wuhan city in China, is that it is mysterious. Though officially called Covid-19 after its name was changed many times within three months of its detection, its name is more deceptive than indicative. Turning into a pandemic, its destructive mission continues even after almost a year-and-a-half with no end to the misery in sight. Whether the evil virus was caused by natural evolution or human effort in Wuhan was the dispute from day one of its outbreak. Finding the cause of a virus is not just curiosity. It is a must to find a cure for it and to prevent its recurrence. A WHO commission, tasked to find out its cause and source last year, ended its mission saying it could find neither. And yet the WHO gave a benign name and narrative to it, implying it was a natural evolution, which made any search for its cause irrelevant. Even now the world has not woken up to the fact that the name Covid-19 is itself deceptive. What is in a name? That is where the huge public mischief originated.

Covid-19  a deceptive name

Chinese authorities first linked the Wuhan virus to the wet market  a place selling living wild animals for meat  in Wuhan where like vegetables in India, live animals are sold. This instantly recalled the SARS [Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome] epidemic of 2002 caused by bats infecting civets sold in the wet market and from them to humans. In the case of SARS 2002, the animal link was established by decoding the virus genome from bats to humans. But for the new virus, there is no such proof available even after a year-and-half. And yet the Chinese and WHO linked the new virus to the old SARS.

Initially the new virus was variously called Wuhan pneumonia and Wuhan virus. WHO quickly intervened, renamed it thrice in two months, January and February, each time linking it to SARS 2002 and the wet market with no proof, calling the new virus as SARS-2  a new avatar of SARS-1. Later, adding the word coronavirus that implied its animal nexus, WHO improved its name as novel coronavirus  2019-nCoV. Next, as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2  SARS-CoV-2 to relate it firmly again to animals. And, as Covid-19 that is CO for corona, VI for virus and D for disease and 19 for the year it appeared, once and for all to fix the blame on poor animals. Shockingly within months, unable to prove it, the Chinese themselves disowned the wet market link to the Wuhan virus. A year later, in March this year the WHO fact-finding commission itself admitted that the role of animal markets is still not clear. Yet, even now animals bear the cross for the deadly pandemic!

Why does a virus, the cause of which is not known still, have a name that blames animals? Here is the answer. The WHO has a noble policy of not naming the geographic origin of a natural virus as that may blame the race of the humans living there. So let animals bear the blame. The noble WHO rule is for a naturally evolved virus. In the case of the Wuhan virus, there is dispute about whether it was natural evolution or man-made. The deceptive narrative of the pandemic, which implies it was natural evolution itself misdirected the search for the cause and the source of the virus away from truth. With the stunning and suppressed facts about the virus obfuscated by geopolitics involving China and the US slowly emerging, the truth seems to be overcoming US-China politics.

Bats did not fly 1,500 kms to Wuhan

The devastated world longing to know the truth about the cause of the virus for over a year should thank Nicholas Wade, for uncovering the truth with amazing and indisputable logic. Wade is no ordinary journalist. He is a science writer, editor, and author who has worked on the staff of Nature, Science, and, for many years, the New York Times. In a devastating, yet balanced, article [titled The origin of COVID: Did people or nature open Pandoras box at Wuhan? on May 5, 2021 in Bulletin of Atomic Scientists founded by the Manhattan project scientists led by Albert Einstein] what Wade has written shatters to smithereens all fake narratives to blame the Chinese bats for causing the virus.

Wade asks a simple question: How could the bats which live 1,500 kms away in Yunnan transmit the virus to humans in Wuhan? Particularly when they cant fly for more than 50 kms. Also how did the Yunnan bats manage to infect only the animals sold in Wuhan wet market, overlooking the entire 1,500 km terrain in between? Within four months of SARS 2002, the link between bats and the wet market animals infected by it was found out by scientists. But now after a year-and-a-half, no such connection has been seen, says Wade. Even the Chinese have given up the wet market claim, points out Wade. Poor Yunnan bats did not infect the people in Wuhan but they are blamed. How did the bat virus get to Wuhan then? This is at the heart of the gripping story of the virus that was scripted when the Americans were madly in love with the Chinese who pretended to reciprocate.

Bat Lady brings 100 bat viruses to Wuhan

Wades narration of the story of the new virus is chilling. The villain  or the heroine  in the Wuhan virus story is Shi Zhengli, Chinas leading expert on bat viruses, better known as the Bat Lady. Leading the researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), Wade says, Shi mounted frequent expeditions to the bat-infested caves of Yunnan in southern China and collected a hundred-plus different bat coronaviruses in November 2015. Shi teamed up with Ralph S Baric, an eminent coronavirus researcher at the university of North Carolina. They focused on enhancing the ability of the bat viruses to attack humans. In November 2015 they created a novel coronavirus. How? It is a little technical. They did it by taking the backbone of SARS-1 virus and replacing its spike protein with one from bat virus, which was able to infect the human cell airway. Wade quotes a virology expert who says if that man-made virus escaped, nobody could predict the trajectory -- meaning their huge potential for infection. Why would virologists create such Frankenstein? The justification has the noble aim of preparing for mitigating the risks of future outbreaks  in the present case for preventing the re-emergence of SARS-1. This is called Gain of Function (GOF) research in virology. The norm for GOF research is that the potential to mitigate future outbreaks must be weighed against the risk of creating more dangerous viruses. Baric and Shi admitted the risks in their work but justified it on the GOF.

Baric, says Wade, had taught Shi a general method for engineering bat coronaviruses to attack other species like humanised mice  a cheap and ethical stand-in for human subjects. Shi returned to her lab at the WIV and resumed the work she had started on genetically engineering coronaviruses to attack human cells. How could one be sure that she did? Wade cites the public records of American connection to WIV which proves it.

Bat Ladys virus, not bats

Wade cites two irrefutable pieces of evidence which clearly point to what the Bat Lady did or was well on the way to accomplish her mission. One, the grant proposal to fund Shis work from the US National Institutes of Health (NIH), a public record. [According to Fox News (12.5.2021), the Obama-led US, one-sided in its love of China, started funding WIV from 2005 that went on till 2019.] This proposal said exactly what she wanted to do with the money. The NIH assigned the grants to Peter Daszak, a big name in the guild of virologists, as the contractor, and he subcontracted them to Shi. Explaining the content of the proposals, Wade says, What that means in non-technical language is that Shi had set out to create coronaviruses with the highest possible infectivity for human cells. It cannot be said she did or did not generate SARS-2 in her labs because, Wade says, Chinese have sealed her labs. But, Wade cites an interview given by Daszak on December 9, 2019 just before the Wuhan outbreak, which proved Shi had accomplished her mission. Daszak talked in glowing terms about the researchers at the WIV and said we  meaning Daszak and Shi  have now found after 6 or 7 years, over 100 new SARS-related coronaviruses, very close to SARS. Daszak, points out Wade, says around minute 28 of the interview, Some of them get into human cells in the lab, some of them can cause SARS disease in humanised mice models and are untreatable with therapeutic monoclonals and you cant vaccinate against them with a vaccine. So, these are a clear and present danger Note the words uttered with inhuman pride, untreatable and cant vaccinate against. Have any doubt now that the devastation that is happening to millions and millions of humans was the work of WIV  orchestrated by the Bat Lady and Daszak? What is the conclusion? Poor bats did not infect any animals with the virus, which in turn transmitted it to people in Wuhan. Bats were brought to WIV to create a new coronavirus  now devastating the world.

But, who subcontracted the coronavirus grant to Shi Zhengli? Peter Daszak. Who praised her for developing more than 100 bat viruses that could not be vaccinated against? Peter Daszak. When the virus broke out, who got the scientists to sign letters saying that it could not be a lab leak? Peter Daszak. Who was a member of the WHO commission to find out whether it was a lab escape? Peter Daszak. If Shi is the villain who created the evil, Daszak turns out to be the villain who suppressed its creation.

Well, it is just half the story. There is more. The WIV at Wuhan was not just a civilian science academy. It partners, the Peoples Liberation Army, which had plans from 2015 to prepare bio-weapons for the next world war. The issue is not just peoples health but global security.

Tomorrow: Will U.S. politics bury or expose the truth?

S Gurumurthy is Editor, Thuglak, and a commentator on economic and political affairs

ALSO WATCH | Kerala's Covid-19 fight: A tale of two waves | TNIE Documentary
Even before the political controversy over the CBIs arrest of four TMC leaders, including two ministers, in the Narada scam could die down, another one has cropped up over the Delhi Polices visit to Twitters offices in New Delhi and Gurugram. The fact that the police landed up in large numbers clearly pointed towards intimidating the social media companys leadership and employees. The police action smacked of one-sidedness. It followed a complaint lodged by the Congress party that a fake toolkit had been created by the BJP to target it. The toolkit was tweeted by BJP spokesman Sambit Patra, prompting Twitter to tag it as manipulated media. While some parts of the toolkit are genuine, and this has been acknowledged by the Congress itself, it claims that the more damaging portions have been created by the BJP in order to defame the party. While the police is yet to send a notice to Patra or the BJP, it has been prompt in asking two Congress leaders to join the investigation.

The CBIs arrest of the TMC leaders earlier while sparing the BJP ones who are also accused in the case was clearly dictated by politics. The selectiveness of the CBI was commented upon by the Supreme Court on Tuesday when it turned down the investigating agencys petition seeking judicial custody of the arrested leaders. The CBIs action was preceded by unnecessary visits by West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar to families of BJP workers killed allegedly by TMC cadres, kicking up a round of accusations between him and the Trinamool leadership. The Governors actions were driven by political motives. All these controversies are wholly unnecessary, although not surprising. They are the outcome of the us and them phenomenon that has characterised not only politics in recent times, but personal relationships as well. Everything is seen through the prism of politics, ideologies, religious beliefs and caste. The divisiveness is such that it splits people even in death. This was seen when TV journalist Rohit Sardana died of Covid-19. There were some who clearly did not regret his death, all because of his political leaning towards the right. This highly toxic atmosphere is bound to take the country backwards.
By Express News Service

VIJAYAWADA: A meeting of the Joint Collectors and 26 NGOs from 13 districts and executive director, AP State Disaster Management Authority was held under the leadership of chairperson of Covid Command and Control Centre Dr KS Jawahar Reddy to discuss the collaboration between the government and NGOs to fight the Covid-19 pandemic in an effective manner.

The meeting was organised in the wake of the communication sent by the National Disaster Management Authority and Niti Ayog to the state governments.

Coordination panels
By Express News Service

HYDERABAD: The CBI court on Wednesday adjourned the hearing on a petition, filed by rebel YSRP MP K Raghurama Krishnam Raju, seeking the cancellation of the bail granted to Andhra Pradesh CM YS Jaganmohan Reddy, to June 1.

The court adjourned the hearing after lawyers of both Jagan and the CBI failed to file counter affidavits. Raju, in his petition, has alleged that the Andhra Pradesh CM, released on bail in a disproportionate assets case of 2012, had been violating the bail conditions.

On Wednesday, Jagans advocates cited the ongoing lockdown in State as the reason for the delay in filing the counter affidavit. CBIs advocates told the court that they did not get a specific direction from the bureau on the affidavit that they have been asked to file.

RAJU DISCHARGED FROM HOSPITAL

Rebel YSRC MP K Raghu Rama Krishnam Raju was discharged from Army Hospital at Secunderabad in Telangana State on Wednesday. He left for New Delhi where he got admitted at the AIIMS for further treatment. Raju was arrested by the APCID on sedition charges.
By Express News Service

BENGALURU: Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa on Wednesday held video conference with panchayat presidents and Panchayat development officers of select panchayats from Belagavi, Ballari, Mysuru and Shivamogga.Surging Covid cases in rural areas was the primary concern expressed in the meeting.

Following requests by officials of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department, Yediyurappa announced that all staff of RDPR will be considered as corona warriors and all benefits announced to revenue department staff will be extended to them. To address issues of resources and awareness, he pushed for help desks and helplines to be set up at panchayats.
By Express News Service

KOCHI: As protests grow against the sweeping new rules on Lakshadweep, CPM has launched a move to bring all opposition parties under a common forum to submit a joint petition to President Ram Nath Kovind against administrator Praful Khoda Patel.

An all-party meeting has been convened on Thursday to discuss and chalk out the future course of action against the proposed new regulations such as the ban on cow slaughter, ending serving of meat in mid-day meals and allowing liquor consumption on the island.

We are planning to bring all opposition parties together and submit a joint petition to the President against the proposed new rules, which are against the interest of the people of Lakshadweep, said Elamaram Kareem, Rajya Sabha member and senior CPM leader.

In the all-party meeting, which will be held online, CPM and NCP leaders will participate. Local BJP leaders are also expected to attend the meeting, sources said. The government functionaries based in Lakshadweep, including the collector and the advisor to the administrator, have not responded to the protests so far. On Thursday, Rahul Gandhi, Congress leader and Wayanad MP, joined the chorus of protestors to condemn the actions of administrator Patel. Lakshadweep is Indias jewel in the ocean. The ignorant bigots in power are destroying it. I stand with the people of Lakshadweep, Rahul tweeted.

Muslim students federation writes to UN gen secy

On Wednesday, Congress MPs from Kerala Hibi Eden and T N Prathapan led the protests outside the office of Lakshadweep Administration in Kochi. The Lakshadweep administrator is implementing the Sangh Parivar agenda on the island by painting everyone living there as terrorists. We demand the immediate recall of Praful Khoda Patel, said Hibi.

Both Hibi and Prathapan also met administrative officer Ankit Agarwal and expressed their strong protest against the sweeping new rules on Lakshadweep. Filmmaker M A Nishad said the Lakshadweep administrator was trying to bring a casino culture on the beautiful islands of Lakshadweep. He (Praful Patel) is trying to serve the interests of big corporate houses, and implement a casino culture, Nishad said, adding that the attempt is to instil fear among the peace-loving people of the Lakshadweep islands.

Samastha Kerala Sunni Students Federation (SKSSF) Lakshadweep committee has written to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the United Nations Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues against the actions of the new administrator of the islands.

Sathar Panthaloor and Nasih K K, SKSSF Kerala general secretary and the organisations Lakshadweep unit general secretary, respectively, said the actions of Administrator Patel are a violation of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples 2007. In the letter, they said the Lakshadweep Development Authority Regulation Act is a clear violation of the rights of Scheduled Tribes enshrined in the Constitution and Article 7 and 8 of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, to which India is a signatory.

(The people of the island) are on the verge of ethnic cleansing and there is a fear of internet shutdown. As (the country is) a signatory to the Declaration, the UN must ensure that India is (held) accountable for violating the rights of indigenous people, the letter said.The SKSSF, in a separate statement, urged the Kerala government to pass a resolution against the anti-human actions of the administrator. The meeting also decided to file a writ petition in the Kerala High Court on the issue.

PRESSURE ON

CPM launches move to bring all opposition parties under a common forum

All-party meet, to be held online, to chalk out future course of action against the proposed new regulations

BJP leaders are also expected to attend the meeting
M P Prashanth By

Express News Service

KOZHIKODE: Sunni Yuvajana Sangham (SYS) state secretary Musthafa Mundupara has shot off a letter to former chief minister and AICC general secretary Oommen Chandy requesting him to mediate between Muslims and Christians in the state to sort out the issues between the two communities.

The letter was written against the backdrop of a school principal in Kollam district posting a highly provocative video against Muslims in the school WhatsApp group. The video warns Christians against the machinations of Muslims to Islamise Kerala.

Mundupara, who is also the CEO of Suprabhatham daily, alerted Chandy about the deliberate attempts from certain quarters to destroy the communal amity prevailing in Kerala. Prominent among them is the move from certain Christian groups against Muslims. These centres are propagating completely baseless allegations, the latter said. He said an impression has been deliberately created that Muslims are robbing Christians of their benefits and that efforts are on to drive Christians out of Kerala. Things have come to such a sad stage that communal venom is injected even in the minds of little kids, he said.

Musthafa Mundupara

A copy of the video posted in the school group has also been attached with the letter. Mundupara reminded the Congress leader that Kerala has a glorious past of peaceful co-existence by the two communities and expressed concern that it will become a sad memory if urgent steps are not taken to stop the polarisation.

The issues can be resolved if responsible persons from two sides sit across the table and I believe that you (Chandy) is the apt person to initiate the dialogue, the letter said. The video mentioned in the letter has been circulated widely on social media for the past few weeks. It is in the form of advice from an imaginary character named Josettan, who is presented as the spokesperson of Christians.

The video exhorts Christians to shed the lethargic attitude and wake up to the threat posed by the Muslim agenda of Islamisation of Kerala. It said there is a false sense of security among Christians in Kerala that they will not be forced to flee the state as had happened in other parts of the world. The video said the experiences of former Christian countries such as Turkey, Yemen and Egypt prove that the threat of Islamisation is not imaginary.

The relationship between Muslims and Christians in Kerala touched an all-time low after allegations of Love Jihad were raised against the former. Muslims are also accused of drawing a major portion of the benefits provided to the minorities under various welfare programmes.

A newspaper article by Panakkad Syed Sadiq Ali after Hagia Sofia in Turkey was converted into a mosque also strained the relationship. All attempts to set things right have come to nought amid reports that at least a section of Christians are cozying up to the Sangh Parivar.
CYNTHIA CHANDRAN By

Express News Service

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In line with the change of guard in the Congress legislature party, the party central leadership has decided to revamp all 14 district committees. On Wednesday, Palakkad DCC president V K Sreekandan, MP, resigned from the post owning up the moral responsibility for the failure of the majority of UDF candidates in the recent assembly elections in the district. Alappuzha DCC president M Liju had quit soon after the poll results were announced.

The resignation of Sreekandan followed the online hearing by the Ashok Chavan panel appointed by AICC to study the partys poll debacle in Kerala, Assam and West Bengal. On Wednesday, former Opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala appeared before the five-member panel online. He pointed out that the organisational weakness and lapses of booth-level committees contributed greatly to the failure.

It is learnt Chennithala alleged that several booth committees hadnt even distributed voters slips properly. The fact-finding committee, including Salman Khurshid, Manish Tewari, Vincent H Pala and Jothi Mani, has already recorded the findings of the three national secretaries in charge of the state  P Vishwanath, Ivan DSouza and P V Mohan  who had been overseeing the election campaigning. All 21 Congress MLAs have also apprised the panel of their views on the poll failure.

Chennithala was the first top leader to appear before the committee and he highlighted the organisational lapses and Covid-19 playing spoilsport in the partys prospects. The corruption allegations which I had raised against the previous LDF government did not reach the people due to the pandemic. Despite the media giving adequate coverage, the allegations levelled against the ruling front did not reach the lower level due to the organisational lapses. The Muslim votes were polled en masse for the LDF candidates, Chennithala told the panel.

In fact, revamping of all district Congress committees was suggested by Congress state president Mullappally Ramachandran soon after the drubbing in the local body polls in 2020. However, both A and I groups opposed the proposal and senior leaders travelled to New Delhi to convince the high command that a change in the organisational structure ahead of the assembly elections would be suicidal.

Mullappally has already submitted a report to Congress president Sonia Gandhi about the assembly poll defeat. Copies of the report have also been submitted to Rahul Gandhi, CWC leaders A K Antony and K C Venugopal. In my report, I have highlighted the mass migration of Christian and Muslim votes to the LDF camp, Mullappally told TNIE.

UDF MEETING TOMORROW

TPuram: The UDF coordination committee meeting will be held in Indira Bhavan at 11am on Friday. Though the high-power 21-member Political Affairs Committee meeting of the Congress was held, the UDF meeting did not take place. The meeting is expected to be stormy as UDF allies are upset about organisational lapses in the Congress.
By Express News Service

BHUBANESWAR: Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik will conduct an aerial survey to assess the damage caused by Cyclone Yaas in districts of Balasore, Bhadrak and other areas on Thursday afternoon.

Official sources said that the CM will review the damage and restoration measures in the affected districts after making the aerial survey. Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) PK Jena had earlier asked the collectors of the affected districts to send their damage assessment reports to the government.

The very severe cyclonic storm which made a landfall near Bahanaga, 20 kilomters south of Balasore, had left a trail of destruction in Balasore and Bhadrak districts. The storm claimed two lives in Keonjhar and Balasore districts. Besides flattening a hundreds of kutcha houses, uprooting trees along its path, the cyclonic storm marooned 128 villages where the government had declared seven days relief.

Meanwhile, heavy rainfall in Mayurbhanj district under the impact of the cyclone created a flood like situation. Heavy rainfall has been recorded in the Similipal during the last 24 hours following which the water level in Budhabalang, Kantakhairi, Deo and Bhdandan rivers are flowing close to the danger level. The district administration has shifted persons from river side villages to safer places.
By Express News Service

CHENNAI: The Indian Coast Guard, along with Sri Lankan authorities, is still trying to quell the fire that ignited on board MV X-Press Pearl, a container vessel anchored about nine nautical miles from Colombo port. The ship was holding about 325 metric tons of fuel in its tanks, which is likely to pose the threat of an oil spill.

Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ships Vaibhav and Vajra are fighting the intense fire on board MV X-Press Pearl using an external fire fighting system and braving the odds of rough weather, according to a release.

ICG ship Samudra Prahari, a specialised Pollution Response (PR) vessel, has also been despatched in pollution response configuration to augment the firefighting efforts and respond to an oil spill, if it occurs. It is learnt that four tugs have also been pressed in by Sri Lankan authorities to douse the fire.

A Coast Guard Dornier aircraft has undertaken air reconnaissance of the area for assessment and support. No oil spill has been reported, the release stated.
Sushmitha Ramakrishnan By

Express News Service

CHENNAI: All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has allowed colleges to offer engineering degree in eight regional Indian languages, including Tamil, from the new academic year (2020-21).

The other languages in which it would be available are Hindi, Bengali, Telugu, Marathi, Gujarati, Kannada, and Malayalam.

Engineering Colleges in Tamil Nadu can now choose to offer their accredited courses in Tamil, using the translated resources created by the AICTE, the chairman of the council Anil Sahasrabuddhe said on Thursday.

"The AICTE has translated the first year engineering course material into eight regional languages including Tamil," he said. A college that is approved by the AICTE can select a programme for which it has already received NAAC accreditation for and opt to offer that programme in Tamil.

Conceived as part of the National Education Policy (NEP), the council set up a committee to translate the materials. The initiative was seeded in a bid to provide quality technical education to students who did not receive sufficient English training at the school level. The initiative is aimed to benefit rural and tribal students.

ALSO READ | Stalin govt boycotts meeting with Union education minister over NEP, other key issues

A total of 14 colleges from across India, including two from Tamil Nadu had requested materials in regional languages, the chairman said. In the academic year 2021-22, Erode Sengunthar Engineering College and Rathinam Technical Campus, Coimbatore will be offering the first year programme in Tamil on a pilot basis.

"It is not compulsory for any college to offer courses in regional languages. However, if any college wishes to do so, they can use these resources," he said, adding that about three-quarters of engineering faculty in India, use regional languages while teaching. "Therefore no additional facilities will be required on part of the college," he said.

Even as the course will be available in Tamil, technical words used in course materials will continue to be in English so that students may not feel left out, Sahasrabuddhe said. However students who learn in Tamil will have to take a compulsory English course at the college level.

While the academic curriculum is not uniform across universities, there will be at least a 70-80 per cent overlap, Sahasrabuddhe pointed out, adding that work is underway to create regional language subtitles to MOOC courses on NPTEL and Swayam platforms.

Currently the first year engineering course material is available in 8 languages and it may be expanded to 22 languages in the next couple of years, he said. Further, second year and higher courses too will subsequently be made available.
By Express News Service

PUDUCHERRY: A new programme called Covid-Free Villages would be launched in Puducherry and Karaikal on Friday with the aim to achieve 100% vaccination in villages, said Puducherry Lt. Governor Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan.

Shortly after receiving CSR contributions to tackle Covid at Raj Nivas on Thursday, Dr Tamilisai said that coronavirus cases are witnessing a declining trend. Efforts are being made to reduce the death rate as well, she added.

The number of oxygen-supported beds have been increased in Puducherry with the addition of 2,000 oxygen beds. Besides, 400 additional beds have been created at the Indira Gandhi Government General Hospital and Post-Graduate Institute.

With the legislators have sworn in, people hope that they will now be involved in taking care of their respective Assembly constituencies by creating awareness to check the spread of Covid. They are also expected to set up Covid care facilities and help speed up the process of vaccination.

The Lt. Governor thanked the business institutions for extending support for Uyir Katru, the Covid fund raising programme of the Department of Health. She said the business groups in Puducherry has risen to the challenge by pledging CSR contributions in cash and kind.

Under the aegis of CII, Metal Scope India Pvt Ltd donated Rs 3 lakh towards Uyir Katru on Thursday. Besides, Chemfab Alkalis Ltd, Shri Shwetamber Murtipujak Jain Trust, Puducherry, and Divine Bharat Chamber of Commerce, Chennai, made liberal contributions of medical equipment for Covid care and Treatment, she said.

Dr Tamilisai received cash and materiel donations in the presence of Dr T Arun, Secretary (Health), Abhijit Vijay Chaudhari, Secretary to Lt. Governor, Dr G. Sriramalu, Director, State Health Mission and senior officers, and representatives of CII and Business Institutions.

ALSO READ | Puducherry CM announces lockdown relief of Rs 3000 for all families in UT

A new programme called 'Oxygen Sisters' have been introduced in Puducherry under which patients undergoing treatment in hospitals would be monitored every hour with the help of oximeters to assess their oxygen levels, the Lt. Governor said, adding that this would infuse confidence among the patients receiving treatment.

Karaikal district administration is also making available free of cost pulse oxymetres to the home-quarantined Covid patients. After using the pulse oxymetres, the patients should return the gadgets to the administration, Dr Tamilisai said.

To provide psychological service to patients in home quarantine, a new programme called 'Pahirvoma' has also been launched. A panel of experts from the Department of Psychiatry under the National Psychiatric Program (NMHP) can be consulted for easy access to mental health care and assistance.

The programme, which is being conducted in consultation with the Directorate of Health and Family Welfare Services and the Department of Social Work, University of Pondicherry, envisages tele-medicine facility for patients to provide psychological support during their stay at home.

For psychiatric counselling, the phone number -- 04132262547 -- could be availed from 10 am to 8 pm, Health Secretary Dr T Arun said.



Dr.Tamilisai also held discussions with Chief Minister N Rangasamy for a scheme to provide support to the families of government staff and journalists falling victim to the pandemic. "Very soon, the scheme would be rolled out in the Union Territory," she added.




By Express News Service

CHENNAI: Leaving no stone unturned to increase the availability of COVID-19 vaccines for Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister MK Stalin on Thursday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hand over the Integrated Vaccine Complex of the Centre located at Thirukazhukundram in Chengalpattu district to the state government on lease so that vaccine production can be started here at the earliest.

The Chief Minister, in his letter to the Prime Minister, said the assets of this vaccine complex could be handed over to the state government on lease, without any past liabilities and with full operational freedom. "The state government will identify a suitable private partner immediately and will make all efforts to commence vaccine production at the earliest. A suitable financial arrangement for the central government to recover a part of its investment can be subsequently worked out after the commencement of operations," Stalin added.

ALSO READ: 'No complete satisfaction yet': Stalin hints at extending Tamil Nadu lockdown

Pointing out that mass vaccination is the most potent weapon available now to fight COVID-19, the Chief Minister said commencing vaccine production at this complex would substantially enhance the nation's capacity and cater to the requirements of the country as a whole and Tamil Nadu in particular. "Hence it is absolutely necessary that we must ramp up the domestic vaccine manufacturing capacity in accordance with the Prime Minister's vision of self-sufficient India, he added.

The Chief Minister further said the high capacity vaccine manufacturing facility at Chengalpattu under the Union Ministry of Health is lying unutilised. The Centre has already invested around Rs 700 crore in this manufacturing facility which is almost complete but has not been used for want of additional funds. The recent attempt to find a private partner to run this vaccine complex has also not borne fruit as there were no bidders for it, he recalled.

A few days ago, the Chief Minister inspected the vaccine complex in Chengalpattu district and held detailed discussions with officials there. Meanwhile, Industries Minister Thangam Thennarasu is meeting Union Minister Piyush Goyal in New Delhi seeking that the vaccine complex be handed over to the Tamil Nadu government.
The South African woman who last week made the headlines after being found in possession of close to one kg of cocaine worth $7 million told the trial magistrate that the drugs she was found in possession of was for her own use and she was in transit to her home in South Africa.

The suspect Shila Khumalo, 50, pleaded not guilty to dealing in illegal drugs when she appeared before Chief Magistrate Munamato Mutevedzi and told the court in her defence that she was already in the green zone when she was arrested and was in transit to South Africa.

She denied ever dealing in drugs and told the court that she never met or interacted with anyone in Zimbabwe other than the arresting details, denied having connections in Zimbabwe and that there is no third party or second person that she got into contact with in Zimbabwe.

She further added that the drugs she was found in possession of were for her own use and she never sold any drugs here in Zimbabwe as she is not in the business of selling and buying drugs, denied importing drugs into Zimbabwe as an import is only complete upon reaching the port of destination.

The State is alleging that on May 10, Khumalo who resides at Number 48 Drukenburg, Johannesburg South Africa arrived in Zimbabwe with a contraband of cocaine aboard on Ethiopian Airways Flight.

The police had received a tip off the previous day and a team of detectives from CID Drugs and Narcotics, CIO and ZIMRA and was waiting for her to arrive and when she got to arrivals, she was intercepted and a search was conducted. H Metro
By Express News Service

CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu government on Thursday informed the Madras High Court that it is considering providing Rs 4000 in financial aid to transgenders even if they do not possess a ration card.

The state's advocate general R Shumughasundaram informed the court that it will sympathetically consider the matter pertaining to transgenders and the need to possess ration cards may not stand in the way of their receiving the relief.

According to the petitioner's counsel Jayna Kothari, the transgender community has been left out of the financial aid even as they are facing a dire crisis. Also, not many of them possess ration cards to avail the scheme.

The petitioner, Grace Banu, a transgender activist of Thoothukudi in her plea stated that over 50,000 transgenders in the state have lost their livelihood due to the lockdown imposed by the state to control the spread of COVID-19.

The first bench of Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee and Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy recorded the submissions and adjourned the plea to June 7 for the state government to file a detailed report.
By Express News Service

HYDERABAD: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a prosecution complaint before the Special Court for PMLA cases at Hyderabad against the state Congress working president and Malkajgiri MP Anumula Revanth Reddy, TDP MLA from Sathupally Sandra Venkata Veeraiah and several other accused in connection with the cash for vote scam that shook the two Telugu states in 2015.

The investigation has established that Revanth Reddy, Sandra Venkata Veeraiah and the other accused had conspired to bribe nominated MLA Elvis Stephenson for securing his vote in favour of Vem Narender Reddy, a candidate proposed by the Telugu Desam Party in the MLC election that was scheduled in June 2015, the ED said in a release on Thursday.

Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu's name also cropped up in the case after the ACB found an audio clip purportedly of him speaking to Stephenson and assuring that he would honour the commitment, indicating that Revanth was acting on his instructions. However, Chandrababu Naidu was not charged with the offence, it was found.

The ED initiated the investigation in 2019 on the basis of a case registered by the Telangana ACB in 2015. The prosecution also named the other accused in the case -- Bishop Harry Sebastian, Revanth's associates Rudra Sivakumar and Uday Simha and TDP leader Vem Narender Reddy's son Vem Krishna Keerthan and Mathaiah Jerusalem -- in the complaint.

The ED had also recorded the statements of A Revanth Reddy and other accused persons Harry Sebastian and Rudra Udaysimha who were involved in the actual handing over of the bribe amount of Rs 50 lakh to the MLA Elvis Stephenson. They were also confronted with the available audio-visual recordings of the encounters. As part of the conspiracy, they contacted Elvis Stephenson and offered him a bribe of Rs 5 crore. Elvis Stephenson made a complaint to the ACB and a 'trap' was laid and his encounters with the accused were secretly audio-video recorded.

The accused met Stephenson at his house on May 30, 2015 and made the bribe offer. Later on May 31, A Revanth Reddy, R Harry Sebastian and Rudra Udaysimha came to Elvis Stephenson's friend Malcolm Taylor's house to hand over the advance bribe amount of Rs 50 lakh in cash and were trapped by the ACB. The bribe amount was seized and they were taken into custody. The said the cash was handed over to the accused by Vem Krishna Keerthan, son of Vem Narender Reddy, to help his father in the election.

The ED has provisionally attached the seized amount under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. Investigations further established that the accused committed the offence as well as the offence of money laundering by dealing with the bribe money which is nothing but proceeds of crime as per PMLA. Following this, ED filed a prosecution complaint against Revanth Reddy and five other accused to hold trial for the offence of money laundering.
By Express News Service

HYDERABAD/ KARIMNAGAR: Former Health Minister Eatala Rajender is likely to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) soon, in the presence of the partys top functionaries in Delhi. Unconfirmed reports suggested that Rajender is likely to join the saffron fold in the first week of June. The State BJP leaders are understood to have sought the time of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and party chief JP Nadda.

The speculations started running rife after Eatala Rajender held a series of meetings with BJP State president Bandi Sanjay Kumar, MP Dharmapuri Arvind, and former MPs AP Jithender Reddy and G Vivek Venkataswamy.

It is widely speculated that many pink party rebels, including former MLA Enugu Ravinder Reddy, former Karimnagar ZP chairperson Tula Uma and former MP Ramesh Rathod, are also likely to jump ships along with Rajender.

However, the BJP leaders are still tight-lipped over the sacked minister joining their brigade.

It may be recalled that Sanjay Kumar too has been refusing to answer questions concerning Rajender's arrival. Stating that he is focused on the junior doctors strike, the BJP chief has been evading all questions related to the current political situation in the State.

Huzurabad politicos gear up for possible byelection

After rumours that former minister Eatala Rajender might resign as an MLA started surfacing, Huzurabad Assembly constituency has begun witnessing more political drama. With Rajender out of the picture, local political leaders are now gearing up for the possible byelection.

Meanwhile, the rampant infighting in the pink party has also started coming to the light.On Wednesday, former BC commission member Vakulabaranam Krishna Mohan held a press conference. Ahead of this, TRS State secretary Banda Srinivas and party town president Kolipaka Srinivas entered in a heated argument. Srinivas expressed his anger over not being invited for the press conference.

When Srinivas tried to storm out from the press conference venue, Krishana Mohan stopped and pacified them. Banda Srinivas also expressed his dissatisfaction over his close associate not being offered a chair during the press conference.

Meanwhile, rumours are that former erstwhile Karimnagar ZP chairman Tula Uma is also likely to join the BJP. When contacted, she told Express that she met Rajender once after the latter's dismissal from the Cabinet. When asked about the rumours, she did not refute the claims.

MANY TO FOLLOW EATALA

It is widely speculated that many TRS rebels, including former MLA Enugu Ravinder Reddy, former ZP chairperson Tula Uma and former MP Ramesh Rathod, are also likely to jump ships along with Eatala Rajender
By Express News Service

HYDERABAD:Chairman of the State-Level Task Force Committee on COVID-19 and Industries Minister KT Rama Rao urged the Central government to allow more vaccine manufacturing companies into the country. He said vaccine doses were lying idle because of lack of demand or non-consumption in several countries like Canada and US.

Rama Rao inaugurated a 100-bed COVID-19 facility of Project Ashray at HiTec City on Wednesday. The facility has been set up by United Way Hyderabad and others. Rama Rao said the State had a capacity to administer one million vaccine doses per day and could complete the vaccination for entire population in 45 days.

"But the demand and supply situation is very bad. The Central government should step up and allow more vaccine manufacturing companies into the country, who can give us as much supply as possible in the shortest possible time," he said and suggested Pfizer, Moderna and other vaccines.

Rama Rao said they were yet to check the response for the global tenders for the vaccines floated by the State government. "But the States cannot have their own strategies. They cannot work in isolation. This is the time to show the Team India spirit. The Centre and States should work together," he said.

'MAY EXIT SOCIAL MEDIA ON TWITTER BAN'

IT and Industries Minister KT Rama Rao, who is very active on Twitter platform, on Wednesday said that he would exit the social media, if the Twitter is banned. A netizen asked Rama Rao on Twitter: "Sir If @Twitter gets banned, which social platform will you choose? #JustAsking." Rama Rao replied: "I may just exit social media if that happens."
By Agencies

CALIFORNIA: A Sikh man was among eight people killed during the shooting at a rail yard in San Jose, California.

Santa Clara County officials have released the names of the shooting victims that includes 36-year-old Taptejdeep Singh.

Singh had worked as a light-rail train driver for eight or nine years and had a wife, two small children, and many family members, said his cousin, Bagga Singh.

We heard that he chose the people to shoot, but I dont know why they choose him because he has nothing to do with him," he said. He said he was told that the gunman targeted certain people and let others go.

Apart from Taptejdeep Singh, other victims included -- Paul Delacruz Megia (42), Adrian Balleza (29), Jose Dejesus Hernandez Ill (35), Timothy Michael Romo (49), Michael Joseph Rudometkin (40), Abdolvahab Alaghmandan (63) and Lars Kepler Lane(63).

San Jose City Councilman Raul Peralez said Rudometkin, one of the victims, was a close friend. There are no words to describe the heartache we are feeling right now, especially for his family, he wrote on Facebook. Eight families are feeling this same sense of loss tonight and our entire community is mourning as well.

Police said that the shooter also died in the incident. The attacker was identified as 57-year-old Sam Cassidy, according to two law enforcement officials. Investigators offered no immediate word on a possible motive.

His ex-wife, Cecilia Nelms, told The Associated Press that Cassidy had a bad temper and would tell her that he wanted to kill people at work, but I never believed him, and it never happened. Until now.

Nelms, teary-eyed and shaken by the news, said her ex-husband would come home wound up and angry about things that happened at work. As he talked about it, he would get more mad, she said. He could dwell on things.

When Cassidy lost his temper, Nelms said there were times she was scared. He was someone who could physically hurt others, she said.

Nelms said they were married for 10 years  Cassidy filed for divorce in 2005  and had not been in contact for 13 years. She said he had been treated for depression.

Deputy Russell Davis, Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office spokesperson announced that the investigation is "ongoing" and cautioned that "the numbers can change."

He said employees at the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA), the facility where the shooting took place, are among the victims.

Davis also revealed that authorities received information that there are explosive devices located in the building. He said a bomb squad has been activated and is currently on the scene "trying to clear out every room and every crevice of that building."

The VTA control center is a hub that stores a number of trains along with a maintenance yard, and has an indoor and outdoor area, said the Deputy.

Glenn Hendricks, the chairperson of the VTA Board of Directors, noted at an earlier press conference that the shooting occurred on the VTA light rail yard, and not in the facilities operations control center.

According to the Deputy, multiple reports of shots fired came in at around 6:34 am (local time). The San Jose Police Department and Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office tweeted just after 7 am (local time) that officers were on the scene of an active shooting. Authorities requested people stay away from the area, near Younger Avenue and San Pedro Street.

About an hour later, Mayor Sam Liccardo said on Twitter that the shooter was "no longer a threat," adding that several people were being treated for injuries.

His comments came around the same time the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office tweeted "Shooter is down," The Hill reported.

(With inputs from AP and ANI)
By PTI

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan for the first time will host the 'World Environment Day' on June 5 and showcase the steps it has taken to deal with the issue of climate change, Prime Minister Imran Khan announced on Thursday.

Addressing a ceremony in Haripur near here in connection with the Ten Billion Tree Tsunami Programme, launched in 2013 by his provincial government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Khan said hosting the World Environment Day 2021 in partnership with the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) is a great honour and acknowledgement of efforts of Pakistan to reduce the impact of climate change and global warming.

Official sources said that Prime Minister Khan would make important announcements related to climate change initiative, including the Ten Billion Trees Tsunami Programme, Clean Green Pakistan, the Electric Vehicle Policy, National Parks, and Green jobs.

Khan will also participate in the World Environment Conference on the night of June 4, which will also be attended by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Pope Francis and German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Khan said his government was taking steps to address the challenges of climate change to ensure a better and secure future for the coming generations.

He said Pakistan is among the top ten countries most vulnerable to climate change because glaciers were melting and it would impact rivers and agriculture.

"We remain dedicated to the cause and are trying to improve the environment in different ways We are not doing this for show. We are doing this so that we can leave behind a better country for our future generations. The biggest impact of climate change is that it will affect our future generation," he said.
By Associated Press

KIGALI: In a key speech on his visit to Rwanda, French President Emmanuel Macron said he recognises that France bears a heavy responsibility in the 1994 genocide in the central African country.

Macron solemnly detailed how France had failed the 800,000 victims of the genocide but he stopped short of an apology.

France "was not an accomplice" in the genocide but ended up siding with Rwanda's "genocidal regime" and bore an "overwhelming responsibility" in the slide toward the massacres, the French leader said, speaking Thursday at the genocide memorial in the capital, Kigali.

"France has a role, a history and a political responsibility in Rwanda. It has a duty: That of looking history in the face and recognising the suffering that it inflicted on the Rwandan people by favoring silence over the examination of truth for too long," Macron said.

When the genocide started, "the international community took close to three months, three interminable months, before reacting and we, all of us, abandoned hundreds of thousands of victims."

France's failures contributed to 27 years of bitter distance between the two countries, he said.

"I have to come to recognize our responsibilities," Macron said.

Macron arrived in Kigali early Thursday and met President Paul Kagame at the presidential residence.

Macron then toured the memorial to the frenzied 1994 slaughter in which Hutu extremists killed mainly minority Tutsis and moderate Hutus who tried to protect them.

Macron's trip builds on a series of French efforts since his election in 2017 to repair ties between the two countries.

Two reports completed in March and in April that examined France's role in the genocide helped clear a path for Macron's visit, the first by a French president in 11 years.

The previous visit, by Nicolas Sarkozy in 2010, was the first by a French leader after the 1994 massacre sent relations into a tailspin.

Rwanda's government and genocide survivor organizations often accused France of training and arming militias and former government troops who led the genocide.

Kagame, who has been Rwanda's de facto leader since 1994 and its president since 2000, has won praise abroad for restoring order and making advances in economic development and health care.

But rights watchdogs, dissidents, and others accuse Kagame of harsh rule.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne has asked neighbouring Dominica, where fugitive businessman Mehul Choksi was caught, to hand the diamantaire over to India directly, local media reported.

After news of Choksi's arrest in Dominica came on Tuesday night (local time), Browne told local media that he has given "clear instructions" to the Dominican authorities to repatriate Choksi to India.

"We asked them not to repatriate him to Antigua.

He needs to return to India where he can face the criminal charges levelled against him," Antigua News Room, a media outlet, quoted Browne's interaction with journalists in Antigua and Barbuda.

Choksi will not have the same rights in Dominica as he has in Antigua and Barbuda, where he had been staying since 2018 after taking citizenship in 2017 under the Citizenship by Investment programme, Browne indicated.

The prime minister believes for this reason, it would be easy for Dominica to repatriate him directly to India, the report said.

Choksi, who had recently fled from Antigua and Barbuda, was captured after an Interpol Yellow Notice was issued against him.

A Yellow Notice is issued by the Interpol to track missing persons.

Choksi, who is wanted in a Rs 13,500-crore loan fraud in the Punjab National Bank, was last seen going for dinner in his car in Antigua and Barbuda on Sunday.

His staff had reported him missing after his car was found.

The businessman's lawyer, Vijay Aggarwal, had confirmed that Choksi had been missing since Sunday.

The reports of Choksi gone missing created a flutter in the Caribbeans island country after the opposition raised the issue in the Antigua and Barbuda Parliament.

Responding to the opposition, Prime Minister Browne had said his dispensation was "collaborating" with the Indian government, neighbouring countries and international police organisations to try and locate him.

Choksi and his nephew Nirav Modi allegedly siphoned off Rs 13,500 crore of public money from the state-run Punjab National Bank (PNB) using fraudulent letters of undertaking.

Nirav Modi, lodged in a London jail, is contesting his extradition to India after repeated denial of his bail by courts.

Choksi had taken citizenship in Antigua and Barbuda in 2017 and fled India in the first week of January 2018.

The scam came to light subsequently.

Both are facing a CBI probe.
By PTI

KATHMANDU: Nepal's Supreme Court on Thursday began preliminary hearing on petitions against the dissolution of the House of Representatives and rejection of Opposition leader Sher Bahadur Deuba's claim by the President for the post of prime minister.

As many as 30 petitions, including the one by the Opposition alliance, have been filed at the Supreme Court, challenging Friday's House dissolution, the Kathmandu Post reported.

President Bidya Devi Bhandari dissolved the 275-member House of Representatives on Saturday for the second time in five months and announced snap elections on November 12 and November 19 on the advice of Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli, heading a minority government.

She rejected the bids of both embattled Prime Minister Oli and the Opposition alliance's claims to form a government.

Oli and Nepali Congress President Deuba had staked separate claims to the premiership, saying the "claims were insufficient."

Nepal's Opposition alliance on Monday filed a writ petition in the Supreme Court demanding restoration of the House of Representatives and appointment of Deuba as the Prime Minister.

Others had also filed petitions against the dissolution of the House of Representatives.

A single bench of Chief Justice Cholendra Sumsher Rana is conducting the preliminary hearing on 19 petitions demanding an interim order against the dissolution of the House.

The hearing on the remaining 11 petitions that were filed at the Constitutional Bench will begin on Friday.

"Today's preliminary hearing will decide whether to send the 19 petitions to the Constitutional Bench," Kishor Poudel, a communication expert at the Supreme Court, told the Post.

"If it does so, the Constitutional Bench will hear all the petitions."

The Constitution envisions a five-member Constitutional Bench which is led by Chief Justice Rana.

The members of the bench are selected by Rana.

Earlier on December 20, the President had dissolved the Parliament and called snap polls on April 30 and May 10.

However, two months later, the Rana-led Constitutional Bench on February 23 overturned the decision and reinstated the House.

Constitutional experts have criticised Oli and Bhandari for their complicity in trampling upon the Constitution.

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'.

In February, the apex court reinstated the dissolved House, in a setback to Oli who was preparing for snap polls.
By PTI

KARACHI: A top commander of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, who was believed to be involved in the deadly attack on the Civil Hospital in Quetta in 2016, has been killed, along with three members of the banned militant outfit in Balochistan province, police said on Thursday.

Based on a tip-off, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) launched an operation in Agbara area of the restive Balochistan province on Tuesday and killed Riaz Thekedar.

"Four of the terrorists were killed in heavy firing, while two of them managed to escape," police said.

A large cache of guns, ammunition and weapons was seized from the spot.

A CTD spokesman said top Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan leader Thekedar, was killed in the encounter.

"Thekadar was involved in several attacks on security forces and the attack on the Civil Hospital in Quetta in 2016," he said.

At least 80 people were killed and nearly 150 people were injured during the suicide bombing and gun fire by militants at the Civil Hospital in Quetta in 2016, when members of the provincial Bar Association were staging a protesting there against the suspicious death of a fellow advocate.

"Thekedar was also involved in target killings, motorcycle bomb attacks in Pishin, bank robberies and kidnapping of the son of Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party leader Sardar Mustafa Tareen," the spokesperson said.

The other three terrorists killed in the operation were Fazal-ur-Rehman, Syed Ramzan and Syed Matiullah.

The TTP was blacklisted by the UN on July 29, 2011 for its association with al-Qaida.

The latest police operation follows last Friday's bomb blast in the province during a pro-Palestine rally in which seven people were killed and 13 others injured.

No outfit had taken responsibility for the attack.

However, Baloch nationalists and Taliban insurgents are active in the area and often carry out such attacks.

Last month, a bomb exploded in the parking lot of the Serena Hotel in Quetta, killing at least five people and wounding 12 others.

The Chinese ambassador to Pakistan was staying at the hotel at the time of the attack, but was away on a visit.


GOLD panners are costing the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) millions of dollars annually through vandalism of railway infrastructure by mining along railway lines across the country.

Illegal gold mining has contributed to train accidents that have led to the death of three people in the last 18 months.

The NRZ said Esigodini and Beitbridge in Matabeleland South, Shurugwi, Kwekwe in the Midlands and Bindura in Mashonaland Central are some of the areas that have been hard hit by the gold panning activities.

Government recently took a position to deploy security agents in Beitbridge to ward off gold panners operating along the railway line.

NRZ is now running a campaign aimed at identifying and arresting those damaging the railway infrastructure across the country.

In an interview yesterday, NRZ public relations manager Mr Nyasha Maravanyika said while Government deployed security agents to Beitbridge the problem is widespread in most areas with gold.

Its very massive especially in most parts of the country. The Minister (of Transport and Infrastructure Development Felix Mhona) mentioned Beitbridge but this is happening in many places. Other areas are Bindura, Kwekwe in the Great Dyke and Shurugwi, Esigodini and Beitbridge. These are the main areas that are hit by the illegal gold miners. Most of the time they conduct mining operations under the railway line, said Mr Maravanyika.

You will find that the railway line rests on big holes and this affects the railway line as there will be no balance and at the end of day, we lose millions in terms of money and lives are lost as well. The NRZ has taken a proactive role in terms of alerting the Government about the illegal gold panning.

Lets also take note that in terms of the Railways Act, no human activities should be done at least 45 metres from either side of the railway line. These illegal gold panners are right along the railway line, sometimes they even take away some of our rail infrastructure.

He said the parastatal has lost about $3,6 million through gold panning related vandalism of infrastructure and theft of copper cables in the past four years.

Mr Maravanyika said the vandalism of infrastructure has also led to death and called on courts to impose stiffer penalties on NRZ infrastructure vandals.

We have also been let down by the judiciary giving perpetrators between three to six months sentences. As NRZ we are lobbying for deterrent sentences. The railway line is part of important national infrastructure and needs to be protected. By imposing heavy custodial sentences, we will protect not just the economy but lives. In the past 18 months we have lost three people through accidents which could have been avoided, said Mr Maravanyika.

Last week, Government was informed that gold panners operating at Matopos Research Institute Farm are threatening international research work aimed at improving agriculture in Southern Africa and beyond, through land degradation that has affected studies on crops and caused the death of pedigree breeding livestock.

The panners are also affecting pastures with farmers complaining that they are losing livestock as a result of haphazard gold panning activities in farms and communal areas.

Minister of State in the Office of the President and Cabinet in charge of monitoring and implementation of special agriculture-related programmes, David Marapira last week directed Ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution to work closely with the security agents and decisively deal with the illegal gold panners as their operations were threatening economic subsectors.- Chronicle
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Lawyers of fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi, who was detained in Dominica, have filed a habeas corpus petition in a court of the Carribean island country after they were allegedly not given access to him, his legal counsel Vijay Aggarwal said.

"The legal team has filed a habeas corpus petition in Dominica for Mehul Choksi and have also highlighted deprivation of access to Mehul Choksi and deprivation of constitutional rights to legal assistance," he told PTI.

Earlier in the day, Aggarwal had raised doubts about the way Choksi had gone missing from Antigua and Barbuda only to be detained in Dominica, about 100 nautical miles away, for illegal entry.

His lawyer in Dominica, Wayne Marsh, had told a radio show that in a brief interaction with Choksi, allowed by authorities after lot of efforts, the diamantaire had claimed that he was picked up at Jolly Harbour in Antigua and Barbuda by men looking like Indian and Antiguan policemen and was put in a vessel.

Marsh had said he saw marks on the body of Choksi who had swollen eyes and feared for his life.

He said Choksi is a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda and not India hence he should be sent back.

Aggarwal called the entire episode of his mysterious disappearance and detention in Dominica "fishy".

"Lawyers for Choksi in Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica have been trying to have a legal interview with him as per his constitutional rights but they were denied access to him. After great effort they were able to speak to Choksi for two minutes during which he narrated a horrifying experience which is an eye-opener and vindicates my stand that he would not have gone from Antigua voluntarily," Aggarwal said.

He said that after being taken from Antigua, Choksi was kept somewhere and then on Monday he was taken to a police station.

Since then he has been there and this news to the world was broken only on Wednesday, and there were marks on his body, Aggarwal said.

"There is something fishy and I guess it was a strategy to take him to another country so that there are chances of sending him back to India. So I don't know what forces are operating. Only the time will tell," he said.

Choksi, who is wanted in a Rs 13,500-crore loan fraud in the Punjab National Bank, was last seen going for dinner in his car in Antigua and Barbuda on Sunday.

His staff had reported him missing after his car was found.

On Thursday (Indian Time), the Dominica government confirmed his presence on its soil saying he has been "detained" for illegal entry.
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Dear Abby: I am a 33-year-old woman with two young children (11 and 9). Andrew and I have been dating for almost a year, still learning about each other and building a foundation for our relationship. My family recently told some other family members that I am too pretty to be dating Andrew and I can do much better. My younger sister even said Andrew isnt good-looking enough, and I need to find someone who matches my beauty as well as my heart. Shocked, I told her Andrew has been wonderful to me and my kids, and his looks dont bother me. My last boyfriend was very good-looking but turned out to be a horrible person. He assaulted me, dumped me on the side of a highway and stole my car. Fortunately, a passerby stopped and helped me. After getting a restraining order and going to court, I decided my next boyfriend would be a good-hearted man with character regardless of his looks. Should I confront my family about their comments?

Genuinely Happy

Dear Genuinely Happy: Mark Twain once said, It takes your enemy and your friend, working together, to hurt you to the heart: the one to slander you and the other to get the news to you. I think it applies here. Do not confront your family. Just tell them you feel that their comments are shallow and hurtful, and reflect more on them than on your boyfriend.

Dear Abby: Im a 13-year-old girl. My friend Bailey and I both like the same boy but didnt want him to come between us. We made a pact that we wouldnt ask him out. Bailey can be selfish, and I know shed say yes if he asked her. When I told her my friendship with her meant more to me than the boy, she laughed and said that meant shed get him. Im not sure what to do. I have liked him longer than she has, and I think he likes me back. He knows me much better at least. If he asks me, should I say yes and risk my friend getting hurt, even though I know shed say yes in my place?

A Reader in Missouri

Dear Reader: When you told Bailey your friendship with her meant more than the boy, her response showed that your friendship is less important to her than he is, and the pact means nothing to her. If the boy likes you, he will probably ask you out to do something. If he does  and your parents agree  you should accept. I say this because I dont think Bailey is a true friend at all.

Dear Abby: If someone organizes a trip for a nonprofit organization and charges a fee, and later finds out that, due to certain circumstances, the trip didnt cost as much, should the money be refunded to the people who took the trip or be given to the organization?

Just Asking in New Jersey

Dear Just: Because the trip was under the auspices of the organization, return the money to the organization and let them decide whether it should be refunded to the individuals.
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Im not going to embarrass any one of them, but I have here a list of how back in their districts theyre bragging about the rescue plan, Biden said at an event in Ohio, holding up the list for audience members to see. I mean, some people have no shame, but Im happy they know that it benefitted their constituents.
Pikeville, KY (41501)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 84F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

A few clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 67F. Winds light and variable.
Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

Partial cloudiness early, with scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 93F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Clear to partly cloudy. Low 69F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
Carle Health is starting new support groups to help bereaved heal after COVID-19 losses.

Their daily walk at Urbanas Meadowbrook Park was the setting for Shinta and Nursalim Hadi's selfie  the 1,000th submitted for our nine-month pandemic project showing masked Illini present and past .

MORNING UPDATE

 Another round of encouraging news for Champaign County: Active cases dropped by 20 (to 220) and active close contacts in quarantine were down by 67 (to 238).

 Pesotum became the 13th Champaign County town without any known active cases, joining Broadlands, Dewey, Foosland, Homer, Ivesdale, Longview, Ludlow, Penfield, Philo, Sadorus, Seymour and Thomasboro.

 Women in their 60s and 90s became the 136th and 137th Vermilion County residents to lose their lives to COVID-19, local health officials announced Tuesday. Of the countys 159 active cases, 13 involve hospitalizations.

 Percentage of all residents whove received at least one dose:

Champaign County: 46.5%

Piatt County: 40.6%

Ford County: 39.4%

Douglas County: 31.8%

Vermilion County: 26.9%

 Total doses administered by county: Champaign, 184,692 (+676); DeWitt, 10,153 (+24); Douglas, 11,861 (+48); Ford, 9,678 (+17); Piatt, 12,604 (+7) and Vermilion, 38,119 (+40).

JEFF DALESSIO
Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

Mixed clouds and sun this morning. Scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 93F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Some passing clouds. Low 69F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
In light of ongoing investigations into the origin of COVID-19 and in consultation with public health experts, we will no longer remove the claim that COVID-19 is man-made from our apps, Guy Rosen, Facebooks vice president of integrity, said in a statement Wednesday. Were continuing to work with health experts to keep pace with the evolving nature of the pandemic and regularly update our policies as new facts and trends emerge.
Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Michael C. O'Malley announced the arrests of 31 northeast Ohio residents on May 26 as part of "Operation Deja Vu."
Rough night of sleep? Relying on caffeine to get you through the day isn't always the answer, says a new study from Michigan State University.

Researchers from MSU's Sleep and Learning Lab, led by psychology associate professor Kimberly Fenn, assessed how effective caffeine was in counteracting the negative effects of sleep deprivation on cognition. As it turns out, caffeine can only get you so far.

The study -- published in the most recent edition of Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory, & Cognition -- assessed the impact of caffeine after a night of sleep deprivation. More than 275 participants were asked to complete a simple attention task as well as a more challenging "placekeeping" task that required completion of tasks in a specific order without skipping or repeating steps.

Fenn's study is the first to investigate the effect of caffeine on placekeeping after a period of sleep deprivation.

We found that sleep deprivation impaired performance on both types of tasks and that having caffeine helped people successfully achieve the easier task. However, it had little effect on performance on the placekeeping task for most participants." Kimberly Fenn, Psychology Associate Professor, Michigan State University

She added: "Caffeine may improve the ability to stay awake and attend to a task, but it doesn't do much to prevent the sort of procedural errors that can cause things like medical mistakes and car accidents."

Insufficient sleep is pervasive in the United States, a problem that has intensified during the pandemic, Fenn said. Consistently lacking adequate sleep not only affects cognition and alters mood, but can eventually take a toll on immunity.

"Caffeine increases energy, reduces sleepiness and can even improve mood, but it absolutely does not replace a full night of sleep, Fenn said. "Although people may feel as if they can combat sleep deprivation with caffeine, their performance on higher-level tasks will likely still be impaired. This is one of the reasons why sleep deprivation can be so dangerous."

Fenn said that the study has the potential to inform both theory and practice.

"If we had found that caffeine significantly reduced procedural errors under conditions of sleep deprivation, this would have broad implications for individuals who must perform high stakes procedures with insufficient sleep, like surgeons, pilots and police officers," Fenn said. "Instead, our findings underscore the importance of prioritizing sleep."
PLASTICHEAL project will develop new methodologies and will provide reliable scientific evidence for regulators to set the knowledge basis for adequate risk assessment. The results will draw a variety of experimental human models and measuring potential health effects under short and long-term conditions.

Humans are exposed to incidental micro and nanoplastics (MNPLs) due to their ubiquitous presence in the environment, but there is only very limited information on the potential impact of this exposure on human health. Therefore, the current regulatory framework cannot ensure that incidental MNPLs present in the air, and in food and beverage products are at safe levels for the population.

In this context, the European project PLASTICHEAL, coordinated by the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB), aims at providing new methodologies and evidence to regulators by combining the use of breakthrough research and reliable test methods to set the knowledge basis for adequate risk assessment of MNPLs.

Innovative approach

The project will first generate human exposure estimates after identification, measurement, and characterization of MNPLs present in the environmental air, water and food sources, as well as in human biological samples of population groups with potential high MNPLs exposure levels.

Then a variety of complementary experimental models and methodologies will be applied to screen for several potential MNPLs-induced effects. In vitro, in vivo and in silico models will be applied to develop a MNPLs predictive toxicology: the combined advanced analytical and computational methods will allow not only to decipher cellular responses or identify critical pathways relevant to key traits or conditions, but also to retrieve a highly informative set of features to predict toxicity.

We want to study the long-term impact on the general population and also on the most vulnerable groups, not only among the people most exposed to MNPLs, but also among those with health conditions that could make them more vulnerable to potential adverse effects." Ricard Marcos, Professor at Department of Genetics and Microbiology and Project Coordinator, Autonomous University of Barcelona

The data generated will be processed by integrative analysis methods to obtain MNPLs mechanistic insight, and to identify key events with potential to be consolidated as novel biomarkers of MNPLs long-term effects.

Social impact

The ultimate purpose of PLASTICHEAL is to inform regulators in order to provide better protection from plastics exposure to workers, consumers and the environment. The generated risk characterization will contribute to the determination of MNPLs "acceptable" levels for human health. It will also help identifying the main sources of MNPLs human exposure.

A continuous feedback will be established with regulators, NGOs, consumers, general population, and industry involved in the plastic life cycle in order to identify key questions and to ensure societal and regulatory relevance.

The knowledge gained and the methodology developed in PLASTICHEAL will permit the identification and management of safety issues related to human exposure to incidental MNPLs.
In A Writer Prepares, Block looks back to his childhood in Buffalo, New York, when he was his own biggest skeptic. In 11th grade English, he was assigned a paper on what his future profession might be. His theme was uncertainty, he recalled. He confided that he would never fulfill his fathers dream for him to become a doctor, and that an early wish to be a garbage man ended when his mother told him the work would chap his hands.
There is growing evidence that house design can decrease the force of malaria infection.

The world's most deadly assassin is Africa's malaria mosquito: Anopheles gambiae. In 2019, the World Health Organisation estimated that malaria killed 386,000 people in sub-Saharan Africa, mainly children.

Whilst we think of the home as a sanctuary, in Africa, around 80% of the malaria bites occur indoors at night. Preventing mosquitoes from getting indoors is a simple way of protecting people from this often lethal disease.

As most mosquitoes fly low to the ground, a team of researchers led by Durham University wondered whether if, by raising a house, malaria mosquitoes would struggle to find the occupants.

The findings are published in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface.

Using four experimental houses, the researchers found that the number of female An. gambiae mosquitoes collected in the huts declined with increasing height, decreasing progressively as the hut's floor moved further from the ground.

Huts with floors 3 metres above the ground had 84 % fewer mosquitoes than those on the ground. Interestingly, if this reduction correlates to a similar reduction in malaria transmission, it would be comparable to that of an insecticide-treated net that can reduce malaria transmission by 40-90 %.

Research lead author Professor Steve Lindsay, from the Durham University Department of Biosciences, said: "Working with a team of architects and builders from the Royal Danish Academy - Architecture, Design and Conservation, we constructed four experimental houses in The Gambia, each of which could be raised or lowered. Each week, one hut was on the ground, whilst the bottoms of the other huts were at 1m, 2m and 3m.

"Each night two men slept under separate mosquito nets in each hut and mosquitoes were collected indoors using a light trap. We changed the height of each house weekly so that, at the end of the 40 night experiment, each hut had been at each of the four heights for 10 nights.

"After analysing the results, we found that increasing the height of a hut progressively reduced the number of mosquitoes entering the hut and we think there are two reasons for this.

"First, malaria mosquitoes have evolved to find humans on the ground. Second, at higher heights, the carbon dioxide odour plumes coming out of the huts are rapidly dispersed by the wind, so mosquitoes find it more difficult to find a person to bite.

Study lead, Durham University PhD Student Ms Majo Carrasco-Tenezaca said:

These findings have real-world implications for the growing population of sub-Saharan Africa where An. gambiae s.l. is the major vector of malaria and places where high temperatures reduce the use of bed nets. Raising houses off the ground, like any intervention, is not evolutionary proof, and over time, mosquitoes may adapt and feed higher off the ground than before. Nonetheless, we recommend elevating houses off the ground since they are likely to reduce mosquito biting and keep the occupants cooler at night, and therefore more likely to sleep under an insecticide-treated net at night."

The United Nations has projected that the population of sub-Saharan Africa will more than double between 2019 and 2050, and the region will become the world's most populated by 2062.

Coincident with the increasing growth rate, there has been an unprecedented improvement in the housing stock in sub-Saharan Africa. With an additional 1.05 billion people by 2050, there has never been a better time to make houses healthier for people.
In a recent Science Advances paper, researchers from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine describe an aerosolized nanobody formulation that was found to effectively block the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in Syrian hamsters.

Animals who received inhaled nanobodies have fewer coronavirus particles in their bronchioles (right panel, orange) and are less inflamed (magenta). Image Credit: Nambulli et al., Science Advances

An overview of COVID-19 treatments

As of May 25, 2021, over 168 million people have been infected by the novel SARS-CoV-2, which is the virus responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), worldwide. Of these 168 million people, almost 3.5 million people have died as a result of COVID-19.

When SARS-CoV-2 first emerged, many healthcare professionals around the world turned to the use of high-titer convalescent plasma (CP) to reduce the risk of the severe effects of COVID-19 in senior patients. Since every plasma unit that has been obtained from previously infected COVID-19 patients will contain varying amounts of neutralizing antibodies, several institutions began isolating these neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for recombinant productions.

Limitations of mAbs in treating COVID-19

The in vivo evaluations of these mAbs in murine, hamster, and nonhuman primate (NHP) models have provided information on the efficacy of this therapeutic approach, as well as the mechanisms by which mAbs may alter the course of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Despite these findings, mAbs must often be administered in exceedingly high doses through intravenous injections.

There are several possible explanations as to why such high doses of mAbs are required to effectively neutralize SARS-CoV-2. These include the virulence and pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2, as well as the low efficiency of delivering large biomolecules through the intravenous route to treat pulmonary infections.

To overcome these challenges, a group of researchers from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine studied how inhalable nanobodies (Nbs) could be used to treat SARS-CoV-2 in Syrian hamsters.

What is the difference between mAbs and Nbs?

In a previous study, the University of Pittsburgh researchers discuss their development of camelid single-domain antibody fragments or Nbs that primarily target the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) surface protein.

Although both Nbs and mAbs similarly neutralize SARS-CoV-2, Nbs are much smaller than mAbs. Nbs are also much more stable than mAbs and offer a high level of solubility. Both of these characteristics allow for the storage and transportation of these agents to be much easier, which is particularly important during a pandemic. Furthermore, Nbs are substantially cheaper to produce as compared to mAbs.

Targeting inhaled nanobodies against SARS-CoV-2

In their most recent Science Advances study, the researchers evaluated the efficacy of the Pittsburgh inhalable Nanobody 21 (PiN-21) for both the prophylaxis and treatment of SARS-CoV-2-infected Syrian hamsters. Shortly after getting infected with SARS-CoV-2, PiN-21 was delivered intranasally to the hamsters at an average dose of 0.6 milligrams (mg)/kilogram (kg).

The hamsters that received PiN-21 did not experience any significant weight loss as compared to the hamsters that did not receive PiN-21. Moreover, the control hamsters instead experienced a rapid loss of up to 16% of their body weight. In addition to assessing the weight loss in the hamsters, the researchers also found that the intranasal delivery of PiN-21 reduced viral titer levels within the lungs of the hamsters.

When PiN-21 was aerosolized using a nebulizer (PiN-21 Alb ), the researchers found that about half of the dose of PiN-21 was needed to achieve the same anti-viral effects against SARS-CoV-2 when using PiN-21 Alb .

The researchers believe that the aerosolization of the Nbs significantly improved their delivery deep into the lungs. In fact, the researchers confirmed that the Nb treatment successfully penetrated deep into the terminal alveoli, which are lined with alveolar cells that are rich in the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor.

Since SARS-CoV-2 primarily uses the ACE2 receptor to gain entry into the host cell, the ability of PiN-21 and PiN-21 Alb to exert their antiviral effects at this level of the pulmonary system is a remarkable finding. Furthermore, the fact that PiN-21 Alb can maintain this efficacy at reduced doses has the potential to minimize any potential adverse effects that this drug might have on the host.

Taken together, the aerosolized Nbs evaluated in this study have the potential to be a convenient and cost-effective solution in reducing the severity and transmission of COVID-19.
One out of ten E. coli samples contained variants that are resistant to several kinds of antibiotics, a new analysis on Norwegian blood samples revealed. The proportion of multi-resistant E. coli bacteria doubled from 2002-2009 to 2010-2017.

Researchers at the University of Oslo have analyzed 3200 blood samples from patients in Norway with E. coli (an abbreviation for Escherichia coli). They examined whether the bacteria were multi-resistant, meaning that several types of antibiotics do not work against them.

From 2002 and over the following 8 years, every twentieth sample was shown to be resistant to antibiotics. When they analysed the samples from the next 8 years - up until 2018 - they found multi-resistant bacteria in every tenth sample. In other words, the proportion of multi-resistant bacteria had doubled.

Their research has recently been published in The Lancet Microbe.

Treating E. coli can become difficult

It is important to understand how and why antibiotic resistance is increasing and making infections more difficult to treat. As in the case of many types of infections, the youngest and eldest run the greatest risk of falling seriously ill and we must have antibiotics that can treat these bacteria. That is why it is so important to monitor the development of antibiotic resistance. This set of data provides us with a deeper understanding of the current situation, says Rebecca Gladstone.

She is a postdoctoral fellow at the Department of Basic Medical Sciences and has conducted the research on the Norwegian samples together with professor Jukka Corander.

In the study, the researchers looked at samples of E. coli that had entered the blood from the intestines, where antibiotics play an important role. E. coli is for example a common cause of urinary tract infections.

E. coli also finds its way into the stomach of many people via food that has not been appropriately cooked. E. coli is present in the intestines of both humans and animals and does not normally cause any harm. However, some groups of E. coli can cause serious infections, especially in people suffering from underlying diseases or a weak immune system.

Last year, a child died following complications caused by E. coli bacteria. There was a major outbreak of E. coli infections in Norway in 2006, when 18 people fell seriously ill after eating a type of cured, pork sausage. One child died.

Norway has a lower prevalence of multi-resistant E. coli

The level of multi-resistant E. coli bacteria in Norway is not a cause for alarm just now, explains Gladstone, who emphasises that Norway is doing better on this score than a number of other countries in Europe.

- Nevertheless, we must continue to monitor developments carefully so that we are prepared if the situation worsens. We expect that antibiotic resistance will increase as time goes on.

Faster spread of multi-resistant E. coli in Great Britain

The researchers in Oslo collaborated with scientists in Great Britain in order to compare the development of antibiotic resistance in the two countries. In Great Britain, there is a faster spread of E. coli bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics.

- This may be due to the fact that the population is larger in Great Britain, but also to differences in the type and the use of antibiotics. In Norway, the use of antibiotics has been more strictly controlled than in a number of other countries. In addition, we found differences between Norway and Great Britain as regards the variants of E. coli causing infections in the blood. In the initial phase, Norway had one variant in particular that dominated and outcompeted the other more multi-resistant variants, says the postdoctoral researcher.


Among the many efforts to contain the spread of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and thus bring an end to the devastating coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, vaccines have been hailed as the most efficacious method. However, fears about possible adverse reactions have undermined public acceptance of vaccines across many groups and in many countries worldwide.

A recent study by researchers in Singapore shows the absence of evidence for adverse effects on fertility or the presence of the vaccine mRNA (messenger ribonucleic acid) in breast milk, following the administration of the Pfizer BNT162B2 COVID-19 vaccine. This supports efforts to prevent the spread of false information about the effects of the vaccine.

A preprint version of the study is available on the medRxiv* server, while the article undergoes peer review.

Background

Vaccine hesitancy is a growing threat to health authorities who want to extend the global reach of COVID-19 vaccines. The first two vaccines to be approved for emergency use in this pandemic were the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. Both are lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated mRNA vaccines encoding the viral spike antigen for expression within the host cells following vaccination.

Many social media have spread fears that these vaccines will reduce fertility, and that they pass into breast milk, thus making breastfeeding impossible. In fact, 13% of unvaccinated Americans believe this fertility myth.

Syncytin-1 antibodies?

A pseudo-scientific and unsubstantiated explanation for this alleged effect on fertility claims that antibodies to mRNA-encoded spike antigen are cross-reactive to a human placental antigen called human syncytin-1, and that this is responsible for miscarriage and infertility.

Syncytin is encoded by endogenous human retroviruses, and are proteins required for gamete fusion, or fertilization, and for placental development. Some degree of similarity between this protein and the SARS-CoV-2 spike S2 domain has given rise to this theory.

Vaccine in breast milk

Secondly, many people think that the vaccine mRNA persists in breast milk, allowing it to be transmitted to the newborn. Women who believe this may postpone vaccination, or alternatively, stop breastfeeding for a while, despite the withdrawal of any contraindication to vaccination before, during or after pregnancy.

Since pregnancy is a high-risk state for COVID-19 infection, such disinformation may further increase vaccine hesitancy among women in the reproductive years. The current study was meant to add weight to the assurances of scientists that these vaccines do not generate anti-syncytin-1 antibodies and do not impact fertility.

Study findings

The study population included 15 women working as frontline health workers and two early-pregnancy vaccine recipients. The former received two doses of the Pfizer vaccine. The latter received only one dose, which was given before they knew that they were pregnant, and the second dose was withheld.

In all cases, the vaccine mRNA was detected in plasma within four days of vaccination, with a cycle threshold (Ct) <30. No mRNA related to the vaccine was found in breastmilk.

Plasma from the two early-pregnancy vaccine recipients was collected only at 4 weeks from the first dose, as they did not receive the second. These samples did not show amplification of Pfizer mRNA.

Neutralizing antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 were first found in plasma from vaccine recipients after four days from vaccination. They became strongly positive within 4-7 weeks post-vaccination, indicating the expected immune response to the vaccine. Seroconversion was also observed within the two pregnant vaccine recipients following a single dose, with almost 90% inhibition of the virus.

However, anti-syncytin-1 antibody binding activity was very low, both at 4 days and at 4-7 weeks, below the positive cut-off value.

Detection of BNT162B2 mRNA and Multiple sequence alignment of plasma RNA. vaccine assembly, Pfizer sequence and MT380725 vaccine assembly, Pfizer sequence and MT380725 spike protein sequence. (A) Amplification at Ct<30 was observed in all plasma samples between 1 and 4 days post-vaccination, but not in 4-week plasma collected from subjects 101 and 102 (undiagnosed pregnancies at the time of the first dose). Negative control (pre-vaccination plasma) and water blanks did not amplify, demonstrating the specificity of the TaqMan primers/probe. (B) Five paired breast milk and plasma samples were analysed for BNT162B2 mRNA, which amplified (Ct<30) in day 1-4 plasma but not in day 0-7 breast milk. Negative control (pre-vaccination plasma) and water blanks did not amplify, demonstrating the specificity of the TaqMan primers/probe. (C) An 87bp region of the spike protein-encoding region of the BNT162B2 mRNA was amplified from RNA extracted from plasma. Whole transcriptome sequencing was performed on extracted RNA. A draft scaffold of 4196 bases with an average coverage of 162X, of comparable size to the vaccine RNA, was obtained only from non-human sequenced reads of post-vaccination samples. No scaffolds >2kb were obtained from pre-vaccination plasma. We observed perfect alignment from bases 120 to 4077 when we compared our assembled sequence to the public Pfizer sequence, and a high degree of agreement at the nucleotide level (other than at the start and end of the sequences) when multiple sequence alignment was performed with GenBank sequence MT380725 of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.

What are the implications?

These findings show that vaccine mRNA was not transmitted to breast milk. Conversely, breast milk may contain protective neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, which are beneficial to the infant.

These data are, however, limited to the first week after vaccination, as the duration over which vaccine mRNA persists in plasma was not examined in this study. This limitation must be communicated to vaccinated women who seek to know if it is safe to breastfeed afterward.

Anti-syncytin-1 antibodies were also not detected even with high titers of neutralizing antibodies, indicating that cross-reactive antibodies to these proteins on developing placental tissue in early pregnancy are probably not being formed. However, the early data from the US Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) shows that spontaneous miscarriage is the most common outcome of pregnancy following vaccination with an mRNA vaccine.

Earlier computational alignment of nucleotide and protein sequences from the viral spike protein and human syncytin-1 have shown only two-residue or three residue stretches of similarity between the two. It has been long established that cross-reactivity requires at least 80 stretches of amino acid sequences that are homologous over 35% or more of their extent.

While the findings of this study indicate that BNT162B2-vaccinated women did not transmit vaccine mRNA to breast milk, and did not produce a concurrent humoral response to syncytin-1, a definitive answer as to the effect of the vaccine on fertility will come only when larger numbers of women who have been vaccinated soon before they conceived or during early gestation are monitored.

*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.
To help patients manage their mental wellness between appointments, researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a smart device-based electronic platform that can continuously monitor the state of hyperarousal, one of the signs of psychiatric distress. They said this advanced technology could read facial cues, analyze voice patterns and integrate readings from built-in vital signs sensors on smartwatches to determine if a patient is under stress.

Furthermore, the researchers noted that the technology could provide feedback and alert care teams if there is an abrupt deterioration in the patient's mental health.

Mental health can change very rapidly, and a lot of these changes remain hidden from providers or counselors. Our technology will give providers and counselors continuous access to patient variables and patient status, and I think it's going to have a lifesaving implication because they can reach out to patients when they need it. Plus, it will empower patients to manage their mental health better." Dr. Farzan Sasangohar, Assistant Professor in Wm Michael Barnes '64 Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering

The researchers' integrated electronic monitoring and feedback platform is described in the Journal of Psychiatric Practice.

Unlike some physical illnesses that can usually be treated with a few doctor visits, people with mental health needs can require an extended period of care. Between visits to a health care provider, information on a patient's mental health status has been lacking. Hence, unforeseen deterioration in mental health has a limited chance of being addressed. For example, a patient with anxiety disorder may experience a stressful life event, triggering extreme irritability and restlessness, which may need immediate medical attention. But this patient may be between appointments. On the other hand, health care professionals have no way to know about their patients' ongoing struggle with mental health, which can prevent them from providing the appropriate care.

Hence, patient-reported outcomes between visits are critical for designing effective health care interventions for mental health so that there is continued improvement in the patient's wellbeing. To fill in this gap, Sasangohar and his team worked with clinicians and researchers in the Department of Psychiatry at Houston Methodist Hospital to develop a smart electronic platform to help assess a patient's mental wellbeing.

"The hospital has the largest inpatient psychiatry clinic in the Houston area," said Sasangohar. "With this collaboration, we could include thousands of patients that had given consent for psychiatric monitoring."

Sasangohar's collaborators at Houston Methodist Hospital were already using an off-the-shelf patient navigation tool called CareSense. This software can be used to send reminders and monitoring questions to patients to better assess their wellbeing. For instance, individuals at risk for self-harm can be prompted to take questionnaires for major depressive disorder periodically.

Rather than solely relying on the patients' subjective assessment of their mental health, Sasangohar and his team also developed a whole suite of software for automatized hyperarousal analysis that can be easily installed on smartphones and smartwatches. These programs gather input from face and voice recognition applications and sensors already built in smartwatches, such as heart rate sensors and pedometers. The data from all of these sources then train machine-learning algorithms to recognize patterns that are aligned with the normal state of arousal. Once trained, the algorithms can continuously look at readings coming from the sensors and recognition applications to determine if the individual is in an elevated arousal state.

"The key here is triangulation," said Sasangohar. "Each of these methods on their own, say facial sentiment analysis, show promise to detect the mental state, albeit with limitations. But when you combine that information with the voice sentiment analysis, as well as physiological indicators of distress, the diagnosis and inference become much more powerful and clearer."

Sasangohar noted that both the subjective evaluation of mental state and the objective evaluation from the machine-learning algorithms are integrated to make a final assessment of the state of arousal for a given individual.

While their technology's prototype is ready, the researchers said they still need to improve the battery life of smartphones carrying their software since the algorithms guzzle a lot of power. Further, they noted that they have to address usability issues, that is, any issues that prohibit patients from using their technology, such as difficulty in navigating their application.

"Because of the stigmatization that surrounds mental illness, we wanted to build a mental health monitoring device that was very discreet," said Sasangohar. "So, we chose off-the-shelf products, like smartphones, and then build sophisticated applications that operate within these devices to make monitoring mental health discreet."
Several vaccines against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) with various distinct antigen delivery systems (non-replicating viral vector, protein subunit, inactivated virus, and mRNA) have been developed since the advent of the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic.

The CoronaVac (Sinovac Life Sciences, Beijing, China) is an inactivated virus. As of April 2021, it is the most administered vaccine in Brazil.

Researchers from the Federal University of Parana, Brazil, looked into the seroconversion rate after vaccination with the CoronaVac. Using immunoassays, they measured the immunoglobulins (IgG) for anti-nucleocapsid protein (anti-N) antibodies and anti-spike-1 (anti-S1) protein antibodies.

A pre-print version of the research paper is available on the medRxiv* server while the article undergoes peer review.

As the vaccine was administered across the complete range of ethnicities, comorbidities, and ages, phase I/II trial results may not perfectly reflect vaccine response times and seroconversion rates, said the researchers.

They found that the CoronaVac has a high seroconversion rate, evaluated in the healthcare workers (HCW) population.

In the study, the researchers also accounted for the comorbidities of the healthcare workers. Individuals with medical conditions such as cancer, chronic kidney/lung disease, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), asthma, etc., are more likely to get severe COVID-19. The HCWs with comorbidities showed similar responses to the vaccine.

The study cohort included 133 participants recruited at the Complexo Hospital de Clinicas, UFPR, Clinical Laboratory, Curitiba, Brazil, during the vaccination of healthcare workers in this city. The serum samples were collected on days 0 (first dose application), +10, +20 (second dose application), and +40.

While the researchers used the Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay (CMIA) Architect-I System for anti-nucleocapsid protein (anti-N) IgG (Abbott, Sligo, Ireland), they used the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (EIA) for IgG anti-S1 spike-protein receptor-binding domain (RBD) (Euroimmun, Lubeck, Germany).

In the study, they observed robust antibody production only after day 40 of CoronaVac vaccination.

Although the seroconversion to S1 protein on day 0 differed (reactive (n=16) and non-reactive (n=117), on day +40, it averaged the same.

While two immunosuppressed HCW did not show seroconversion (probably due to rituximab), two HCWs who were not immunosuppressed also did not present seroconversion.

Of the two cases which reported no seroconversion at day +40, one of them presented a delayed response on day +60. The researchers called for further studies to explain the lack of seroconversion to understand what interfered with the immune response.

This study also confirms previous reports of research post-vaccination with mRNA vaccine in individuals with and without previous COVID-19: no difference in individual antibody response regardless of previous infection.

Both natural infection and vaccination act on the immune system in complex ways, stimulating the production of non-neutralizing antibodies (with their own specific actions) as well as TCD4+ and TCD8+ T cells, which also act to protect against COVID-19.

SARS-CoV-2 has now infected over 168 million individuals and caused over 3.5 million deaths the world over. Despite the vaccine administration across the globe, many challenges are presented in overcoming this pandemic. One of the crucial paths to develop an effective solution towards this is to understand the immunological responses generated in the body upon infection and vaccination.

SARS-CoV-2 stimulates a rapid antibody response in the infected individuals. While the RBD (receptor binding domain) region of the S1 protein is the prominent antigenic target, it is also highly mutating. Several mutations in this region have produced new virus variants, as previously described: P.1, P.2, B.1.351, B.1.1.7, and B.1.325.

Comparatively, the N-protein is observed to have lower mutation levels. Therefore, seroconversion of N-protein antibodies may be an alternative for the vaccine industry to produce efficient vaccines for circulating strains, including those that may arise in the future, reasoned the researchers in this study.

This study demonstrated high seroconversion in healthcare workers from Brazil, 40 days post-vaccination with CoronaVac. The researchers discussed the limitations of the study and further possible courses in the paper.

The study provides important data on the seroconversion rate; for CoronaVac it is 97% for the anti-S1 IgG in HCWs, which is similar or lower to the seroconversion rates observed in phase III studies of other vaccine candidates for SARS-CoV-2.
Funeral services for Thomas Armond "Tommy" Ritch, 72, will be Friday, June 11 at 11 a.m. from the Chapel of Kilgroe Funeral Home. Interment to followe at Bethlehem Primitive Baptist Cemetery in Gallant. The family will receive friends on Friday from 10 a.m. until service time at funeral home
Donna M. Seifried, 78, passed away on Friday, June 11, 2021, at her home surrounded by family. She was a receptionist at Price Waterhouse Coopers, a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, and a native of Salina, KS. She is survived by her husband William "Bill" Seifried of Jeffersonville, I
But one of the companies  Curb  was not allowed to participate in the contract after the MTA earlier this month barred it from doing business with the agency for five years after a transit honcho told officials at the business they were the high bidder.
(Newser)  "It's a little easier now, but I'm not who I used to be," said Darnella Frazier, the bystander who filmed George Floyd's killing last year on her cellphone. "A part of my childhood was taken from me." Frazier, 18, posted the statement on her Facebook page on Tuesday, USA Today reports, the anniversary of Floyd's death. Last Memorial Day, Frazier had gone to a Minneapolis convenience store with her 9-year-old cousin when she saw police officers pinning Floyd to the ground. Her video captured Floyd's death, as well as his insistence that he couldn't breathe and the pleading of the gathering for officers to get off him. Frazier's recording and testimony helped bring about Derek Chauvin's convictions for second- and third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. She mourned Floyd in her post, saying: "May your soul rest in peace. May you rest in the most beautiful roses."

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Frazier said she still lives with the trauma. Over the past year, she's had panic and anxiety attacks. Her family stayed in hotels because, she said, her home "was no longer safe." A mistrust of police has lingered. "It made me realize how dangerous it is to be Black in America," she said, adding, "we are looked at as thugs, animals, and criminals, all because of the color of our skin." She'd shake at night and have to be rocked to sleep by her mother, per NPR. Frazier was widely praised for her actions and has received awards but doesn't consider herself a hero. Despite the attention, and "behind this smile," Frazier said, she's "a girl trying to heal from something I am reminded of every day." She is proud of herself, though. "If it weren't for my video," Frazier wrote, "the world wouldnt have known the truth." (Read more George Floyd stories.)
(Newser)  Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter abruptly announced his resignation Wednesday, saying, "Certain personal matters that are becoming public will become a distraction for this office." He said his resignation will be effective June 1, KOCO reports. According to the Oklahoman, the "personal matters" include an alleged affair with a state employee. The 64-year-old Republican filed for divorce Friday from Cheryl, his wife of 39 years, citing "irreconcilable incompatibility." Gov. Kevin Stitt said a replacement would be appointed to serve the remainder of Hunter's term. "I know he is going through a difficult time and I wish him, his family, and the employees of his office well," Stitt said (Read more Oklahoma stories.)
(Newser)  A Michigan man was exonerated Wednesday after 32 years in prison when authorities agreed that he was wrongly convicted of a fatal stabbing in suburban Detroit based on faulty evidence, including a bite mark on the victim. For years, Gilbert Poole Jr. had challenged his first-degree murder conviction with expertise from the Innocence Project at WMU-Cooley Law School. An Oakland County judge dismissed the conviction at the request of the Michigan attorney general's office, clearing the way a few hours later for Poole's release from a prison in Jackson, the AP reports. Poole, 56, was convicted in the fatal stabbing of Robert Mejia, whose body was found in a Pontiac field in 1988. He could now be eligible for up to $1.6 million under Michigan's wrongful conviction compensation program.

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Pooles girlfriend told police that he had confessed to her that he met Mejia in a bar and later killed him during a violent robbery attempt. A dentist linked Poole to a bite mark on the victim. Poole repeatedly denied any role. In 2015, the Michigan Court of Appeals ordered DNA testing of biological material gathered by police in 1988. There was evidence of type A blood at the scene, which didnt match Mejias or Pooles blood. "Someone else fought with Robert Mejia in the woods that early morning and someone else killed him, Assistant Attorney General Robyn Frankel told the judge. Attorney General Dana Nesse had no objection to vacating Pooles conviction. Bite mark evidence "has been widely debunked. It's not reliable anymore," Nessel said. "Then you have here not just that but the advent of very reliable types of testing such as DNA."

(Read more Michigan stories.)
(Newser)  The Valley Transportation Authority employee who killed eight people at a San Jose rail yard before taking his own life Wednesday morning has been identified by multiple sources as 57-year-old Sam Cassidy. Sources tell NBC that Cassidy was a substation maintainer. Records show he made more than $114,000 in 2019. The motive for the massacre, one of the Bay Area's worst-ever mass shootings, remains unknown, reports the San Jose Mercury News. Santa Clara County Sheriff Laurie Smith says shots were still being fired as deputies entered the building but the gunman killed himself when he saw a deputy. " He knew at that time that his time for firing shots was over," Smith said, per the AP.

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The bomb squad was also at Cassidy's home, which he apparently set on fire before leaving for the VTA building. The victims are believed to include numerous VTA employees, the New York Times reports. VTA spokeswoman Brandi Childress says the rail yard would have been busy at 6:45am, when she first received reports of an active shooter situation. "It is where we have dispatchers and maintenance," she says. "They get up early and they are there." Gov. Gavin Newsom visited the scene Wednesday afternoon. "Theres a sameness to this, and a numbness I think is something were all feeling," he said. "It begs the damn question, 'what the hell is going on in the United States of America?'" In a tweet, President Biden said, "Every life taken by a bullet pierces the soul of our nation. We must do more." (Read more mass shootings stories.)
(Newser)  Amy Cooper, who was fired by the investment management company she worked for after she called 911 on a Black birdwatcher in Central Park last year, is now suing that company. She claims the firm, Franklin Templeton, terminated her employment based on race and gender, NBC News reports. Her lawsuit also claims the company did not truly investigate the Central Park situation, nor did it consider her own fear for her safety, before firing her. While the company said it was launching a probe, Cooper claims she was never contacted about one, the New York Daily News reports. "We believe the circumstances of the situation speak for themselves and that the Company responded appropriately," the firm says in a statement calling Cooper's lawsuit "baseless."

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The suit also takes a shot at Christian Cooper (no relation to Amy), the birdwatcher in question, calling him "an overzealous birdwatcher engaged in Central Parks ongoing feud between birdwatchers and dog owners" and saying that if her former employer had probed the incident, it would have discovered Amy Cooper was not acting on racist instincts but was rather "alone in the park and frightened to death." Christian Cooper has not commented publicly on the lawsuit, but he has said in the past that he often asks dog owners to leash their dogs while in the area of the park known as the Ramble, so the area's environment and wildlife can be preserved. Leashes are required there, and Amy Cooper's dog was unleashed, CNN reports. "Franklin Templeton perpetuated and legitimized the story of Karen vs. an innocent African American to its perceived advantage, with reckless disregard for the destruction of Plaintiffs life in the process," the suit claims. (Read more lawsuit stories.)
(Newser)  An "ongoing issue" with Casey Anthony brought police down to a Florida bar over the weekend, though no one's in any apparent trouble after the incident. WESH reports the cops were called Sunday to O'Shea's Irish Pub in West Palm Beach, where the 35-year-old who was acquitted of killing her young daughter nearly 10 years ago registered a complaint about Thelma Moya. Per a police report, Anthony says she'd gotten into a heated verbal argument with Moya over a man they'd both once dated simultaneously, and that Moya spilled water on Anthony's left leg. Anthony told police she didn't want to get a restraining order, "although it has been an ongoing issue for years," the report notes, per KUTV, adding that Anthony complained "she keeps getting drinks thrown in her face."

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Anthony's PR manager tells TMZ that Moya is a former friend and there are no plans to press charges against her. Meanwhile, one of the jurors who handed Anthony her acquittal recently spoke to People as the 10th anniversary of the decision approaches, noting that Anthony's defense team had instilled enough "reasonable doubt" to prevent a convictionbut that today, "as time has gone by and I've learned more, I think maybe I would have come up with a different verdict." And if he saw Anthony strolling down the street? "I wouldn't say a word. I'd cross over to the other side of the street. I've got nothing to say to her." (Read more Casey Anthony stories.)
(Newser)  In Tennessee, the Blount County Health Department has set up a drive-thru COVID vaccination site at the Foothills Mall, and people who don't want to be vaccinated are free not to attend. They are not, however, free to drive through the Maryville site recklessly shouting "No vaccine!" as a woman allegedly did Monday morning. Virginia Christine Lewis Brown, 36, has been charged with seven counts of reckless endangerment, the Daily Times reports. Witnesses said she narrowly missed National Guard and health department personnel as she sped through a closed cone course and a tent in the mall parking lot where at least 15 people were working, reports WATE.

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Brown, who was driving a blue Chrysler SUV, was arrested by Deputy Kevin Snider, KHOU reports. He followed Brown's vehicle after witnessing the incident. "I had several victims tell me she almost hit them as she fled through the tent at high speeds," he wrote in the incident report. "I was advised that they were within inches and feet of the vehicle as it came through the tent. Several victims stated that they thought the driver was going to kill them." Snider said Brown made several anti-vaccine statements as he transported her to the Blount County Detention Facility, where she is being held on $21,000 bond pending a June 7 court hearing. (Read more coronavirus vaccine stories.)
(Newser)  A New Mexico man is accused of sending text messages threatening to overthrow the government and execute President Biden, among numerous others, including his ex-wife. The FBI says Las Cruces resident John Thornton, 39, sent threatening messages to people in Florida and Texas, the Las Cruces Sun News reports. "Tell my concern their father is The revolutionary war general," one message reads. "5 stars now. 5 stars after I execute Joe Biden for Treason." The FBI says Thornton also threatened to execute "every single" staff member at Canadian computing company D-Wave Systems Inc.

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In dozens of Facebook posts, Thornton claimed the Canadian company was linked to the Cold War research project MK Ultra and accused it of plotting with the US government to drug people with methamphetamine, the Sun News reports. The FBI says Thornton also threated to execute the people he sent messages to. He faces a federal charge of transmitting in interstate commerce communication containing any threat to injure the person of another, reports KFOX. (Read more New Mexico stories.)
According to court documents, Pena served as the lookout inside a Bronx apartment where the drug ring stored its product before sending it across the Hudson River. His crooked colleagues prepared and packaged the drugs in the residence for shipment to their out-of-state customers, authorities said.
(Newser)  Hong Kongs legislature on Thursday passed a bill amending electoral laws that drastically reduces the publics ability to vote and increases the number of pro-Beijing lawmakers making decisions for the city. The new law empowers the citys national security department to check the backgrounds of potential candidates for public office and sets up a new committee to ensure candidates are "patriotic." The number of seats in Hong Kongs legislature will be expanded to 90, with 40 of them elected by a largely pro-Beijing election committee, the AP reports. The number of legislators elected directly by Hong Kong voters will be cut to 20, from the previous 35.

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The bill, passed by a 40-2 vote, was met with little opposition, as most of the remaining legislators are largely pro-Beijing. Their pro-democracy colleagues resigned en masse last year in protest over the ousting of four lawmakers deemed to be insufficiently loyal to Beijing. The changes to Hong Kongs elections come as Beijing further tightens control over the semi-autonomous city that saw months of anti-government protest and political strife in 2019. Authorities have arrested and charged most of the citys outspoken pro-democracy advocates, such as Joshua Wong, who was a student leader of 2014 protests, as well as media tycoon Jimmy Lai, who founded the Apple Daily newspaper

(Read more Hong Kong stories.)
(Newser)  A woman campaigning to be mayor of a city in Mexico's Guanajuato state invited voters to meet with her Tuesday, only to be murdered. Alma Barragan, a candidate for the Citizen's Movement party who hoped to lead the city of Moroleon, had posted a Facebook Live video from the campaign trail, naming the street she was on. "Here I'm waiting for you to talk about my proposals," she said, per Sky News. She was later shot deadbecoming the 34th candidate across the country to be murdered ahead of the June 6 electionswhile two others were injured, per Al Jazeera. President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Wednesday that her murder was "without doubt" the work of organized crime gangs aiming to scare voters. "When there is a lot of abstentionism, the mafias dominate the elections," he said.

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Experts say the gangs hope to usher in candidates who will allow them to operate unabated, and look the other way while they extort money from their budgets. The Citizen's Movement party said "it is unthinkable that participating in political life means putting one's life at risk," per the Independent. "This is the most violent election in Mexican history, and in Citizen's Movement we are not willing to act as if that is normal," it added. Other elections have triggered more killings. Still, according to the Etellekt consulting firm, 88 politicians have been killed since election campaigns took off last year, including 34 candidates or aspiring candidates for elected positions. Another local candidate who touted a tough stance on crime was murdered while handing out flyers, per CNN. The election will select hundreds of mayors across Mexico. (Read more murder stories.)
(Newser)  It was a phone call Laurence des Cars had long waited forand when it finally came this week, it was a "joyful and emotional moment." "I will never forget that call," the 54-year-old art historian tells France Inter, via the Guardian, of the correspondence that informed her she's to become the first female president of the Louvre in the Paris museum's 228-year-history. French President Emmanuel Macron made the appointment Wednesday, pulling des Cars away from the Orsay and L'Orangerie museums, which she'd helmed since 2017, to this coveted post. Des Carsa specialist in 19th- and 20th-century paintings who's known for supporting restitution for art stolen by the Naziswill be taking over the job in September from Jean-Luc Martinez, who's been in the position for eight years and had competed against des Cars and others to remain there.

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Among Des Cars' goals for the museum: Bring in more contemporary exhibits, team up on projects with other museums, and make the Louvre more appealing to younger people, tweaking the museum's hours so it can be more accessible. Des Cars tells the New York Times she realizes she's taking over during a challenging time. "This very long lockdown and closure of museums has been very painful," she says. "What I fear most is that ... people will be so insecure they will be afraid of the outside. I want to open the windows and open the doors and make connections so that people will see there is a whole wild world to discover." One thing that won't change under her direction: The museum's hold on its most famous painting, the Mona Lisa. It's "one of the joys of the world's great museums to go and see certain works knowing they will not have been moved." (Read more The Louvre stories.)
(Newser)  The Associated Press hired a young journalist out of Stanford at the beginning of this month, then fired her about two weeks later. But this was no ordinary personnel issue, and the dismissal of 22-year-old Emily Wilder is forcing a heated discussion in the industry about how news organizations handle social media issues. What's more, senior AP execs have acknowledged mistakes in how they handled the firing, reports the Washington Post. Coverage:

Wilder began covering news in Arizona for the AP on May 3, per Poynter. But the Stanford College Republicans soon called public attention to her pro-Palestinian activism while in college. The group denounced her as "anti-Israel," and right-leaning websites and critics, including GOP Sen. Tom Cotton, picked up the theme. Perhaps the most damning accusation was that Wilder's hiring called the AP's objectivity into question on Israel.

One of Wilder's tweets in college criticized news organizations for language they used in coverage of the Israeli conflict, notes media writer Margaret Sullivan in the Washington Post. "Using 'israel' but never 'palestine,' or 'war' but not 'siege and occupation' are political choices, yet media make those exact choices all the time without being flagged as biased," Wilder wrote. That criticism, however, is "not exactly a radical idea," writes Sullivan.

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The AP fired Wilder (and announced it publicly) for violating its social media policy after the campaign against her picked up steam, per Mediaite. Generally, that policy prohibits reporters from tweeting their opinions on controversial issues. A backlash soon began, with 100 AP journalists signing an open letter to their bosses demanding a clearer explanation about the disciplinary process. "We need to know that the AP would stand behind and provide resources to journalists who are the subject of smear campaigns and online harassment," it reads. The AP then announced it would review its social media policies.

The news agency hasn't said much publicly beyond that statement, but the Post reports that senior managers admitted mistakes in a town hall with employees. "We failed to initially see this as more than an HR issue," it quotes Julie Pace, an assistant managing editor, as saying. "What we failed to see is how this impacted our staff broadly in so many ways. ... We saw it primarily as an issue of social media standards. We failed to see that it is much deeper than that." Another exec, managing editor Brian Carovillano, cited "mistakes of process" but said the decision to fire Wilder was correct.

Wilder herself has responded to all this with a statement about her firing, calling it "heartbreaking as a young journalist." She adds that "it's terrifying as a young woman who was hung out to dry when I needed support from my institution most. And it's enraging as a Jewish personwho grew up in a Jewish community, attended Orthodox schooling and devoted my college years to studying Palestine and Israelthat I could be defamed as antisemitic and thrown under the bus in the process." Wilder adds that she was upfront about her college activism with the AP, and that she abided by the organization's policies once hired.

At Poynter, Tom Jones warns that "we are going to continue to see more controversies like these if news outlets don't revisit and then clearly define what their social media policies are, as well as be consistent with how they enforce those policies."

In her piece, Sullivan writes that news organizations have much work to do in figuring out how to respond to "bad-faith attacks on journalists." This wasn't about social media, she writes. "Wilder, who is Jewish, was fired because she had a history of outspoken college activism on a particularly touchy subject," she writes. "And because a right-wing mob came for her at a particularly touchy moment."

(Read more Associated Press stories.)
(Newser)  Russia has expressed its support for Belarus by refusing to let at least two European airlines' flights land in Moscow. Austrian Airlines and Air France announced the cancellations, saying permission from Russia was denied, per CNN; Russia had no comment. Both airlines wanted to change the routes to avoid crossing over Belarus, which used a fighter jet Sunday to force a Ryanair flight to land in Minsk. Belarus then took a dissident on board into custody. The European Union, which considers the action a hijacking, had asked airlines to avoid Belarus airspace; there's been little traffic over the country since Sunday, per CBS. In addition, airlines registered in Belarus have been barred from European airports. Belarus, in turn, canceled a series of flights. Putin and President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus are allies.

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The parents of the detainee, Roman Pratasevich, asked President Biden on Thursday to intervene more forcefully against Belarus. Pratasevich's supporters said he appeared in a video released Monday to have been tortured. His mother, Natalia, called on other nations to pressure Lukashenko to "stop torturing the wonderful young bright youths and stop the evil things he's doing." EU leaders are meeting about sanctions in Portugal, where Luxembourg has suggested moving against Belarus' potash exports. Germany advocates a much broader action. ''It is clear that we will not be satisfied with small sanctions steps, but that we aim to target the economic structure and financial transactions in Belarus significantly with sanctions," Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said. (Read more Belarus stories.)
New Zealand comedian Urzila Carlson had to abandon her time on The Project on Thursday because she had been in Melbourne during the past week.

The comedian recently performed to a crowd of 9000 people in Australia and had returned home to New Zealand in the last week.

She was one of 5000 people in New Zealand who had returned from Melbourne since May 20 who were asked by the Ministry of Health to head home and self-isolate because of the latest COVID-19 outbreak.

Carlson received a message on her phone from the Ministry of Health stating she needed to return home and get tested immediately while on the show.

However, Jeremy Corbett wasn't alarmed as he felt she was far away from the audience on the stage.

"She's on a pedestal over there, Australia's gonna claim Urzila Carlson soon, they really will."

Co-presenter Kanoa Lloyd added: "They may not have her.
During the sentencing, which took place at the High Court at Auckland on Thursday morning, Justice Geoffrey Venning said the businessmans offending was controlled and brazen.

"You were prepared to pay significant amounts of money."

During the businessmans four week trial, which began in February, the court heard from each of the three male complainants.

One of the men said he was indecently assaulted when he went to the prominent New Zealanders house to discuss a potential business opportunity.

He told the court the businessman told him to stay for dinner and afterwards gave him a tour of his house, which ended in his bedroom.

The complainant described the businessmans behaviour as utterly creepy.

It was one of those moments you experience in life where every cell in your body is saying its time to go, he said.

As the man walked out of the room, he said the businessman grabbed his backside and kissed his neck.

Another man, who also visited the businessmans house to discuss work, told the court that when he had tried to leave, the wealthy New Zealander had thrust one hand down the front of his pants, grabbing his genitals.

The third complainant was staying at the businessmans house in 2016 when he became violently ill with food poisoning and went to bed. The man told the court the businessman came into his room completely naked, and later got into the bed with him, touching his genitals and body.

The businessmans business manager, as well as New Zealand entertainer Mika X, have already both been sentenced to home detention for their part in a plot to convince the man to drop his complaint.
Waikato District Health Board has confirmed patient and staff data has been seized in the ransomware attack that's crippled its systems since last Tuesday.

The Health Minister says once the systems are back online, the Government will launch a review into how they all crashed in the first place.

Eleven days in and there's still no end in sight for the embattled DHB.

"The longer this goes on for, the longer that recovery period will be," Waikato DHB CEO Kevin Snee told a press conference on Thursday.

Its systems have been down since the ransomware attack on May 18.

The Health Minister wants to know exactly how all of them - from car parks to cancer care - were so connected.

"Once the systems are recovered at Waikato, there has to be a review. There will be a review and the question about how the whole system, the whole shebang was brought down, that'll be the question," Andrew Little told The AM Show.

Media, including Newshub, were contacted on the night of May 24 by a group claiming responsibility, and sent what was claimed to be patient and staff data seized in the attack.

Today, the DHB confirmed its fears.

"It does appear to be genuine," says Snee.

"We're now examining those files to identify the information on them, and the individuals affected, and assess the level of risk associated with that."
So where are Taiwan and New Zealand at with their vaccine rollouts?

Taiwan has ordered more than 20 million COVID-19 vaccines from AstraZeneca and Moderna but so far only just more than 700,000 of the AstraZeneca jab have arrived.

New Zealand has secured 10 million doses of the Pfizer vaccine. COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins told RNZ's Checkpoint this week there were about 300,000 doses on hand - in addition to the 562,149 jabs already administered.

But Dr Gorman says New Zealand has a long way to go on COVID-19 vaccinations. He's "100 percent" confident the Government's goal of vaccinating as many people as possible by the end of 2021 won't be achieved.

He points to a recent report by Auditor-General John Ryan which found a "significant" scale-up of the vaccination effort is required to achieve the Government's goals. Ryan recommended the Ministry of Health be transparent around supply risks and the possible impact on the rollout schedule.

But it was revealed on Wednesday New Zealanders would have to wait an extra few weeks for their COVID-19 vaccine, as supply issues pushed the rollout back until the end of July. The Ministry of Health quietly updated its website last week to reflect the shift in the time frame.

"The Auditor-General, what did he ask for? He asked for transparency," Dr Gorman says. "What are we getting instead? Opaqueness."

But the Government insists there's no delay.

"We've got very firm undertakings from Pfizer that they'll get us all our vaccines by the end of September," Hipkins told Magic Talk's Ryan Bridge on Wednesday.

"It's just a question of when we start getting those big deliveries in.

"Pfizer was pretty upfront with us; we could have the extra vaccines so that we could do the whole population. But we'll have to wait until July onwards - that July through to September period - for the big deliveries to be coming in."
A New Zealander interviewed for a controversial story about New Zealand's relationship with China says he felt the Australian journalist behind it was trying to push an agenda.

60 Minutes Australia has released a trailer for the story which examines New Zealand's ties to China.

The promo has been ridiculed online for being overly dramatic, but Newshub understands the timing of it is no accident.

It looks and sounds like a Hollywood blockbuster, but the dramatic trailer is promoting a new current affairs story that alleges New Zealand has ditched Australia for our largest trade partner, China.

It even gave Aotearoa a new name - 'New Xi-Land' - a play on Chinese President Xi Jinping's name.

The New Zealand Government has faced some criticism recently over its stance on China.

Channel 9 says the story is about New Zealand not joining its Five Eyes spy partners - including Australia - in condemning China's human rights violations.

But Jacinda Ardern isn't impressed.

"Obviously, I would completely disagree with the way that they're framing New Zealand and our relationship with Australia."
The 49-year-old hardhat was breaking apart a section of roof on the Flatbush Bank building about 8:30 a.m. when the piece of concrete he was standing on gave way and he plummeted about 50 feet to the ground, officials said.
The commercial, which features a deep voiceover and melodramatic background music, asks "just what are the Kiwis up to now" and if New Zealand is turning into "New Xi-Land", a play on Chinese President Xi Jinping's name.

"We thought they were our best friends, but it looks like they've ditched us for a fast Chinese buck," the advert's voiceover says.

It comes amid debate internationally about whether New Zealand is doing enough to express concern about human rights abuses in China, our largest trading partner.

While New Zealand has condemned China independently and in joint statements with Australia, Aotearoa's been accused of cosying up to the Asian superpower by not being party to some Five Eyes statements.

That's led some commentators to suggest New Zealand is "backstabbing" our trans-Tasman partner, who has been hit hard by trade tariffs imposed by Beijing in retaliation for it speaking up against human rights breaches and calling for an investigation into the origins of COVID-19.

Labour minister David Parker, who was the Trade Minister last term, told The AM Show on Friday Australia remained a significant partner for New Zealand.

"There is a serious underlying issue about the tensions that are there in the world at the moment. Our most important partnership in the world is Australia and we do a lot to try and keep that alive through successive governments," he said.

"There are, for both of us, sensitive relationships with China. We are both trying to manage that as best we can."

He expects that will be discussed between Jacinda Ardern and Scott Morrison when the Australian Prime Minister comes to New Zealand. He's expected to arrive on Sunday, but the recent COVID-19 outbreak in Melbourne has thrown that visit into question.
Asked on Thursday afternoon whether she had seen the trailer, Ardern said she hadn't, but she understood it was "causing some amusement online".

"While I haven't seen the trailer, I do understand it is causing a little bit of amusement online. Obviously, I would completely disagree with the way that they are framing New Zealand and our relationship with Australia," the Prime Minister said.

"I think the response online is probably an indication of how New Zealanders are receiving it."

Ardern was also asked if she believed Hosking, a radio host for NewstalkZB, was a reputable NZ-China relations commentator.

"A whole host of journalists, commentators and opinion writers will take different views. I am very clear on where we are in our relationship and also where we are on our very close relationship with Australia," she replied.

The 60 Minutes episode - due to air on Sunday while Australia's Scott Morrison is in New Zealand - follows intense debate over recent months about whether Aotearoa is doing enough to raise concerns about human rights breaches in China or if it is keeping quiet to protect its $33 billion two-way trade partnership.

Australia has been hit hard by trade tariffs imposed by Beijing in retaliation for speaking up about abuses in the Asian powerhouse and for calling for an investigation into COVID-19's origins.

In January, Trade Minister Damien O'Connor came under criticism for telling Australia to practise more diplomacy with China, while right-wing Australian television host Andrew Bolt in April said New Zealand was backstabbing our trans-Tasman partner by not signing up to a statement expressing concerns about a study into COVID-19.

However, many overseas editorials accusing New Zealand of sucking up to China and abandoning Australia ignore the fact both Ardern and Foreign Affairs Nanaia Mahuta have repeatedly expressed concern about the likes of activities in Xinjiang and Beijing's interference in Hong Kong.

In April, Mahuta did so in a joint statement with her Australian counterpart, while in December, New Zealand expressed concerns with China about a senior Chinese official posting an inflammatory image online of an Australian soldier.

Other issues have also emerged this year that have led some to question if the New Zealand-Australia relationship is deteriorating.

In March, then-Australian Home Minister Peter Dutton labelled deportees to Aotearoa under their 501 immigration policy "trash". That policy has long been a cause of friction between the two countries, and Mahuta hit out, saying Dutton's comments "only serve to trash his own reputation".

Despite that and other issues, Ardern said at the time that the countries' relationship remained solid.

"There is no breakdown in our relationship at all. We have an excellent relationship with our counterparts in Australia and indeed myself, with PM Morrison, we speak frequently and we work together often. It just so happens on this issue we strongly disagree."

Asked directly on Newshub Nation last month whether New Zealand was prioritising cash and trade over humanity and ethics, Mahuta said we have to be respectful of China.

"New Zealand's relationship with China is significant in terms of exporting, and there are areas that we can't agree on, but we want to be respectful, consistent, and predictable in the way that we treat China," she said.

Earlier in May, the New Zealand Parliament declared that "severe human rights abuses" are underway in Xinjiang, a move which angered the Chinese side.

The declaration was, however, weaker than originally intended. It was initially worded to declare a genocide as occuring, but that was watered down after deliberations with the ruling Labour Party.

Mahuta, a Labour MP, said a designation of genocide is tied to international law and should come only after a "rigourous assessment" of evidence. She called on China to provide United Nations experts unfettered access to Xinjiang to assess the situation.
"This has been a debate that's been around for some time and whilst it is not on our policy agenda I know a lot of businesses have looked to trial this for their own purposes and for them, I'd be really interested to hear the outcomes. But again, it's not on our current agenda."

National leader Judith Collins acknowledged that many companies have embraced more flexible working arrangements, like four-day work weeks, in the wake of COVID-19. But she said businesses should do what's best for them.

"We don't believe governments should tell businesses how to do their business and impose any one-size-fits-all requirements. Businesses and their employers know what will work best for them."

Collins also doesn't support the idea of a Universal Basic Income.

"We don't support a Universal Basic Income. The only way to set a Universal Basic Income at a rate that is high enough for those who need it is by increasing taxes massively to pay for it. We support a more targeted approach to support those who need it."

A 2018 World Economic Forum report predicted that half of all work tasks would be handed by machines by 2025, and that it would worsen inequality. McKinsey estimates between 400 million and 800 million could be displaced by automation by 2030.

New Zealand's poor productivity

It comes as new data from the Productivity Commission shows New Zealand's productivity record is poor. Kiwis work 34.2 hours per week with $68 of output per hour compared to 31.9 hours per week with $85 output per hour in other OECD countries.

Andrew Barnes, founder of service provider Perpetual Guardian, made headlines across the globe in 2018 for introducing a four-day week. He told The AM Show last year productivity and profits went up, and staff stress levels dropped.

He's renewing calls for wider adoption of four-day work weeks in the wake of the Productivity Commission's latest findings.

"If a consequence of embracing AI is a six-hour work day or a four-day week, we will inevitably be working smarter, not harder," he said on Thursday.

"Part of this would depend on the Government encouraging and supporting innovation to a greater extent; people don't want to work low-value, low-paid jobs, so we need to make those low-productivity sectors more attractive and do them differently using AI and other technologies."
Robert Patman, a politics and international relations professor at the University of Otago, says while he believes Australia would like New Zealand to speak out publicly and in unison with Five Eyes against human rights breaches in China, we do have an independent foreign policy.

"Having an independent foreign policy is part and parcel of not putting New Zealand's eggs all in one basket, and I think that's sensible," he tells The Project.

"We're not prepared to accept a master-servant relationship with China for economic reasons. That will not go down well in this country."

The 60 Minutes episode - due to air on Sunday while Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison is in New Zealand - follows an intense debate over recent months about whether Aotearoa is doing enough to raise concerns about human rights breaches in China or if it is keeping quiet to protect its $33 billion two-way trade partnership.

Australia has been hit hard by trade tariffs imposed by Beijing in retaliation for speaking up about abuses in China and for calling for an investigation into COVID-19's origins.

Despite New Zealand not wanting to join forces with other Five Eyes partners to protest against China, Patman says we do in fact have a similar view with our trans-Tasman partner.

"While I think we actually share the concerns Australia has, we often like to deliver the message in a more nuanced way," he says.

But he doesn't think Australia is a poor friend for New Zealand to have - instead, they may see us as a subordinate.

"I think they want us to be a good junior partner, and I'm not sure we're prepared to play that role."
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's flight from Auckland to Nelson was diverted after a passenger suffered a medical emergency.

The Prime Minister's office confirmed to Newshub on Thursday that Ardern was on the flight, which had to be diverted to New Plymouth Airport for about 50 minutes.

An Air New Zealand spokesperson told Newshub flight NZ5065 from Auckland to Nelson was "diverted to New Plymouth after a medical incident on board".

"Customers were given the choice to disembark, stretch their legs and breathe in the fresh Taranaki air before boarding again."

The flight safely landed in Nelson at 11:22am.

Ardern is understood to be in Nelson for an engagement with the business community.
What do a 14-year-old high school student, a crown prosecutor, an amateur photographer and a 90-year-old former Qantas flight attendant have in common?

They were all among 180 passengers on board QF1250, the Qantas supermoon scenic charter flight which took to the skies above Sydney on Wednesday night to view a rare double phenomenon of a supermoon and full lunar eclipse.

The Boeing 787-9 Qantas Dreamliner departed from Sydney Airport at 7:30pm local time and climbed to a cruising altitude of more than 40,000 feet over the Pacific Ocean, away from city lights for the three hour tour.

As the aircraft began its specially designed flight path in preparation for the celestial show, passengers enjoyed "supermoon cakes" and cosmic cocktails, while astronomer Dr Vanessa Moss provided expert insights into the science behind supermoons and lunar eclipses.
Acting Victoria Premier James Merlino urged Victorians to stop panic-buying.

"Everything we need in terms of our goods and services on the supermarket shelves is there," he says.

"There is absolutely no reason to panic buy. Please don't do it."

This latest outbreak has been linked back to a Melbourne man who tested positive for COVID-19 on May 11 after contracting the virus during his quarantine at Adelaide's Playford Hotel.

More than 150 exposure sites have been identified, including several bars, Marvel Stadium, and the MCG.

There are only a few reasons people will be able to leave the house during the lockdown. They are: shopping for essential items, exercising with one other person, caregiving, going to work where it isn't possible to work from home, and getting vaccinated.
Two 'likely cases' announced, four people later test positive on Monday

On Monday morning, the Victoria Department of Health announced that two people "likely" had the virus, also known as probable cases. Authorities said the two were linked and would undergo urgent retesting.

Later that day, it was confirmed both individuals - male relatives in their 30s and 70s - had tested positive for COVID-19, as well as two others. The two additional cases - a woman and a preschool-aged child - were also relatives, but from separate households.

Five people test positive on Tuesday

On Tuesday, it was reported that a fifth person, a man in his 60s, had contracted the virus. He was reported to the department in the early hours of Tuesday and was formally entered into the system after midnight. He had been identified as a contact of the first case, the man in his 30s, and was urgently tested, which returned the positive result.

Later, it was confirmed that four of the man's household contacts had also tested positive, bringing the cluster to nine.

Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton said just 80 of a potential 300 primary contacts had received their results back, with the rest to be returned on Wednesday.

Authorities now believe the fifth man, who was symptomatic and out in the community for days before being tested, could have infected many of the others in the cluster. He is considered the origin case in the outbreak, as he reported becoming symptomatic earlier than the first case who tested positive on Monday.

The good news came when genomic sequencing was able to link the new infections to patient zero, the Adelaide quarantine case - however, early investigations found the cases had no connection to the associated exposure sites.

It was established that there was a missing link between the Wollert man and the latest bout of infections.

That afternoon, New Zealand's COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins confirmed quarantine-free travel between Victoria and New Zealand would be paused from 7:59pm (NZT) for 72 hours.

Six people test positive on Wednesday

Health officials confirmed on Wednesday that six additional people had tested positive for COVID-19, each with strong links to other cases within the cluster.

The outbreak then stood at 15, all of whom were traced back to the man from Wollert who contracted the virus in an Adelaide quarantine hotel.

Cases 10, 11, 12, 14 and 15 are workplace contacts of case nine, a family member and household contact of the fifth case. Case 13 is a close contact of case one, the man in his 30s who tested positive on Monday and was first reported as a "likely" case.

Eleven people test positive on Thursday

On Thursday morning, Victoria Department of Health confirmed there were 12 new cases of the virus - 11 of which were new, with one from the previous day added to the official figures.

The 11 cases are all connected to the existing outbreak, health officials confirmed.

However, there are in excess of 10,000 primary and secondary contacts who will need to either go into quarantine or test and isolate - and that number will continue to grow, Acting Premier James Merlino said during Thursday's press conference.

"In the last day, we've seen more evidence we're dealing with a highly infectious strain of the virus, a variant of concern, which is running faster than we have ever recorded," he said.

Merlino said contact tracers have locked down three rings of contacts within 24 hours - "the fastest our contact tracers have ever moved within a 24-hour period".

"Despite working as fast as this, and my thanks to all of our contact tracers, this variant is moving faster still," he continued.

"The time between catching the virus and passing it on is tighter than ever. For some of those cases, how long it takes between the onset of symptoms in the first and secondary case is averaging just over a day.

"Now, to put that in some perspective, the usual transmission is about five to six days."

He subsequently announced that the state of Victoria would enter a seven-day "circuit-breaker" lockdown at 11:59pm on Thursday (local time). During this time, residents are only able to leave their homes for five reasons: to shop for food and essential items; for caregiving, compassionate, or medical reasons; for exercise, with one other person, for a maximum of two hours within a 5km radius of the home; to attend authorised work or permitted education; and to get vaccinated.

Masks are now mandatory in all indoor and outdoor settings - other than the home - for those aged 12 and over.

And as Victorians prepare for a week of lockdown restrictions, the missing link has yet to be solved, with health officials still unsure how the transmission occurred.
Samoa's Attorney General, Savalenoa Mareva Betham-Annandale, lodged an application with the Supreme Court on Thursday morning. She's seeking to appeal a decision that overturned the addition of an extra female Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP) member to Parliament.

The Supreme Court called the addition of the extra seat "unconstitutional", giving FAST a 26-25 majority.

The crux of Savalenoa's claim is three judges, including Chief Justice Satiu Simativa Perese, are biased, with her office saying: "If we look at the previous trends, all decisions favour FAST!"

Savalenoa, appointed by HRPP, says her office has:

"substantive evidence" questioning the impartiality and integrity of the judges

it claims "potential favouritism" and wants them "disqualified"

the office proposes bringing in overseas replacements, potentially from New Zealand or Australia.

Law lecturer Fuimaono Dylan Asafo says in his opinion, the claim is a desperate attempt to stop FAST from coming into power.

"It's deeply troubling that the Office of the Attorney General, who is meant to be the leader of the bar and is trusted to uphold the rule of law, is now selectively using the constitution and weaponising the constitution to fulfill the wishes of the former caretaker Prime Minister," he says.

"Their central claim that judges should be accused because they have previously ruled against them is frivolous and silly."

Fuimaono says it's "deeply ironic" the caretaker government is now seeking foreign judges when legislation was passed last year with the purpose of "severely limiting" the influence of them.

One of the judges the Attorney General is accusing of favouritism is Chief Justice Satiu Simativa Perese. He's a graduate of Victoria University in Wellington and Columbia University, New York, and was a barrister in Auckland between 1993 and May 2020. He started as Chief Justice in Samoa in mid-June 2020.

The Attorney General said the Chief Justice "did not declare" he is a second cousin of Fiame Naomi Mata'afa, the leader of FAST.

Retired Law Professor Bill Hodge says it's hard not to have a connection to someone in a small country.

"It's an insult to the bench, it's an insult to the Judiciary, and hopefully going forward it won't reduce the confidence and respect that Samoans have for the judiciary as they should have and they do," he says.

The Attorney General also claims the Chief Justice trying to open the locked doors of Parliament on Monday may be in "contempt of Parliament" as the caretaker Speaker had stated Parliament would not resume.

A spokesperson for the FAST Party labelled the actions of the Attorney General as a "delaying tactic", telling Newshub the caretaker government is desperate to create another 26-26 deadlock so it can call for fresh elections.

The Attorney General's case will be heard on Monday, meaning Samoa's political standoff is far from over.
Fairbanks, AK (99707)

Today

Intervals of clouds and sunshine. High 74F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low 53F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
President has telephone talks with leaders of Spain, Montenegro, Nepal President Xi Jinping has underlined the importance of adhering to the general direction of relations between China and the European Union from a strategic perspective and appropriately managing their differences, as opportunities as well as challenges are envisaged for their ties in the future. Xi told Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez during a phone conversation on Wednesday that he hoped the Spanish government would continue to play its constructive role in promoting the steady and lasting development of China-EU relations. Despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, huge potential has been revealed from pragmatic cooperation between China and the EU, Xi said, noting that the basic idea of China-EU ties that feature cooperation based on win-win results should be maintained. China stands ready to expand two-way trade exchanges with Spain, promote cooperative projects in areas such as port logistics and smart cities, strengthen third-party market cooperation in Latin America and Africa, and deepen bilateral people-to-people exchanges, he said. Xi also stressed strengthening political party exchanges and the sharing of governance experience between the two countries, which would further improve global governance. Sanchez said that it is more necessary than ever for all countries to unite and cooperate and safeguard multilateralism in the face of severe challenges brought by the pandemic. Spain welcomes investment from Chinese companies and will continue to play a positive role in pushing forward the development of the EU-China strategic partnership, Sanchez said. Also on Wednesday, Xi had a phone conversation with Milo Djukanovic, the president of Montenegro, saying that China will work with the country to implement the consensus and outcome of a summit held via video link in February between China and Central and Eastern European Countries. As this year was designated as the China-CEEC Year of Green Development and Environmental Protection, China supports Montenegro playing a positive role in leading this mechanism, he said. Xi said that, faced with changes unseen in a century and the pandemic, China is willing to work with Montenegro to consolidate political mutual trust, deepen pragmatic cooperation in all areas including infrastructure, and promote the continuous development of bilateral ties, benefiting the people of both countries. Djukanovic said that the joint building of the Belt and Road Initiative and the CEEC-China cooperation mechanism have brought important opportunities and tangible benefits to countries in the region including Montenegro. His country will continue to actively participate in and firmly promote the in-depth development of CEEC-China cooperation and steadfastly uphold multilateralism, he said. In a phone call on Wednesday with Nepalese President Bidhya Devi Bhandari, Xi said that China will continue to provide as much support as possible for Nepal's fight against the pandemic as the South Asian region faces a devastating second wave of COVID-19. On Tuesday, Nepal reported 8,387 new cases of coronavirus infection and 169 deaths across the country. Xi said that the Chinese central government, local authorities and nongovernmental organizations have quickly acted and provided medical supplies, equipment and vaccines that are urgently needed by Nepal and shared prevention and treatment experience with the country. Xi said that he believed the Nepalese people will surely defeat the pandemic at an early date. As this year marks the 50th anniversary of the restoration of China's legitimate rights at the United Nations, Xi said that China would not forget the precious support from Nepal and will, as always, support Nepal in maintaining its national sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. Bhandari hailed the great achievements that China has made in economic and social development under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, especially in poverty eradication and space exploration. Her country is committed to the one-China policy and will never allow any forces to conduct anti-China activities on Nepalese soil, she said.


Last night, @NYPDSpecialops Aviation was over Manhattan  protecting NYers from above  when they were hit with a green laser from a Brooklyn rooftop, temporarily blinding the pilot.@NYPD76Pct cops were able to locate & arrest the offender, who is now charged with the felony. pic.twitter.com/oiSFXHfO0I
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TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, reiterated His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifas confidence in Team Bahrains efforts to combat the coronavirus (COVID-19).

HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister pledged to HM the King that the Kingdom is determined to fulfill his objective of overcoming the challenges presented by COVID-19 and ensure the health of the Kingdoms citizens and residents.

HRH Prince Salman highlighted the efforts of the people of Bahrain, from those involved directly in maintaining public health to those whose dynamism continues to sustain the economy despite the challenges being faced.

HRH affirmed the importance of uniting together to combat COVID-19, in line with HM the Kings directives, expressing confidence that Team Bahrains efforts will ensure the Kingdom and its people overcome these challenges.

HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister expressed his condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives and wished those who have COVID-19 full and speedy recovery.
Two beauty parlours shut down in Bahrain

Two beauty parlours shut down in Bahrain

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain

Bahrain's Health Ministry shut down two of eight inspected beauty parlours due to the presence of COVID-19 cases among the employees.

The Public Health Directorate referred the beauty parlours to competent legal authorities for violating the mandatory precautionary measures for combating the pandemic.

The outlets were disinfected and preventive measures were taken.

The health inspectors also shut down a massage centre for men due to the presence of a positive case among the employees.

The Food Control Section at the Public Health Directorate conducted 80 inspection visits and took action against 14 restaurants that were found in breach of the mandatory precautionary measures for combating COVID-19.

The clampdown was carried out in coordination with the Ministry of Interior and the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA).
North Central Missouri College is one step away from taking over local community college services in St. Joseph, though exact programming hasnt been determined.

The NCMCs board of trustees voted Tuesday night to accept a memorandum of understanding with Metropolitan Community College, which currently offers adult education classes at Hillyard Technical Center. However, North Centrals board requested a minor change. If thats agreed to by Metropolitans board, Buchanan County will be absorbed into NCMCs coverage area and MCC will move out.

I think maybe theyre getting a better deal, Dr. Lenny Klaver, NCMCs president, said. And thats no offense to Metro at all. But Metro has a large population in Kansas City, and Buchanan County was a bit peripheral.

The change initially was prompted by legislation in Jefferson City, though the two schools ultimately inked an independent deal.

Detractors of the swap worry NCMC will put much of its resources into a satellite campus based in Savannah rather than Buchanan County.

But Klaver told News-Press NOW that his college would like to utilize Hillyard Technical Center like MCC currently does, though NCMC would need to negotiate a separate agreement with the St. Joseph School District as the center is owned by the district.

Theres no reason we cant serve Buchanan County in a slightly different manner, Klaver said. Weve had great relationships with Missouri Western State University, and we will do our absolute best to provide full-service education to the entire region, including our new venture.

NCMC currently operates a small satellite campus in St. Joseph. Much of its Savannah campus will focus on NCMCs nursing program, which routinely reaches capacity, Klaver said.

Klaver couldnt comment on the specific programming NCMC would provide in Buchanan County. The community college will evaluate the availability of certain courses  and where theyll be held  this winter and into the spring of 2022.

Industrial courses will be a large focus, Klaver said, after school officials spoke with business leaders in the St. Joseph area.

MCC will continue all of its current courses until the end of the 2021-2022 school year. NCMCs takeover would likely occur in the fall of 2022.

The MCC board is expected to sign the amended agreement at their meeting on June 24.
A bill passed during Missouris recent legislative session will make it harder for health departments to call for emergency orders like ones enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The decision was made after lawmakers decided health departments had too much authority when shutting down businesses or setting capacity ordinances during the pandemic.

The new bill limits such ordinances to 30 days at a time, and the departments governing body, whether it be a city council or county commission, will have the ability to approve or halt the measure.

State Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer, R-Parkville, said he originally was behind an even stricter bill and believes health department officials held too much power during the pandemic. He said elected officials should be able to provide checks and balances.

What we saw around the state was a small group of individuals making really consequential decisions for our local economies, and so its no secret we had businesses all across the state that went out of business because of some of these health ordinances that shut them down, Luetkemeyer said.

St. Joseph Health Director Debra Bradley said restrictions and ordinances enacted during the pandemic in St. Joseph were joint efforts involving her department, Mayor Bill McMurray and the City Council. She has some concern about state lawmakers feeling the need to limit the power and ability of health professionals to make decisions involving their local communities.

Its sad that our legislative body is restricting local public health authority because we dont make these kind of orders lightly, Bradley said. I know here in St. Joseph it was the mayor and the City Council who did all the orders, they did it with my input and recommendation, and some of the times they went their own direction, which is completely their prerogative.

McMurray said this bill will not impact any process St. Joseph has moving forward in the event another emergency arises.

As time went on, I asked the council to give me a resolution of support on the extension of orders, so all of that fits in very nicely with what the state is now set, and Im happy to do that ... many hands make light work, McMurray said.

McMurray said he felt city officials did a good job of making orders but not going too far.

I think we didnt get carried away here and I think very probably we saved some lives with orders we did here, McMurray said.

Luetkemeyer said he did not feel St. Joseph and Buchanan County had egregious overstep by the health department but did believe in some other counties health departments overstepped their boundaries. He said he did not support most shutdowns and mandates as a whole.
After not holding any gathering for Memorial Day last year due to the pandemic, the Veterans of Foreign Wars post in St. Joseph is hosting an observance ceremony this year.

The ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. on Memorial Day at the Civic Center Park.

Ill read a proclamation expressing the citys thankfulness that weve had people who are willing to put on the uniform of their country and risked their lives to save our freedom, Bill McMurray, mayor of St. Joseph, said.

John Minton, commander of VFW Post 6760, said there is a backup location in case the weather doesnt cooperate.

If we do have inclement weather, were going to go across the street to the Joyce Raye Patterson (50+ Activity Center) and still have our event, Minton said. Regardless, we dont care, rain or shine, were going to have our event.

Both McMurray and Minton hope to see a big turnout from the community this year.

I really want families to be there and children, young people to listen and know what veterans do to make this a free country, Minton said.

The American Legion Post 287 in Savannah, Missouri, has been honoring those who served in the military by displaying banners of veterans along Main Street and the towns square around the Andrew County Courthouse.

Mark Hummer, commander of the American Legion Post 287, said there are around 68 of 100 banners so far.

Theyre either veterans from Savannah and Andrew County or the family is from Andrew County or Savannah, Hummer said. And its really interesting because if you even go and look at them, and Ive tried to keep them as categorized as I can, theres brothers grouped together, their banners are up there. Theres one set thats a grandpa, a son and then a cousin. Thats up there together.

Hummer said the banners will stay up throughout the summer and will come down on Veterans Day.

A Savannah home decor shop, Ivy Cottage, provided memorial flower baskets to be displayed with the banners.

The legion is hosting a Memorial Day parade in Savannah that will feature the American Legion Riders and the American Legion Auxiliary. The parade will start at 9:30 a.m. in Savannahs town square and end at the citys cemetery, where there will be a memorial service at Flanders Field.
I come out and I see the fire, recounted Mdatiqur Rahman, 43, a building resident for 13 years. The fire came out, and the (firefighters) came with the water and took them out ... One by one they were bringing them out and taking them to the hospital.
ATLANTA (AP)  With a dozen states rejecting an offer of extra federal money if they expend Medicaid, Georgia's two Democratic U.S. senators are now pushing for a federal workaround.

Sens. Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock on Wednesday wrote a letter saying they want the federal government to find a way to provide health insurance coverage to people in Georgia and 11 other states that haven't agreed to expand the Medicaid program.

The federal government, which already funded coverage for these individuals through the Affordable Care Act, has a responsibility to step in and help these citizens who have been left behind by their state leadership, Ossoff and Warnock wrote. We cannot continue to allow Americans with low incomes to suffer any longer just because they live in a state that has been overcome by political obstruction.

Democrats had tried to motivate the 12 remaining holdouts by offering extra money to states that adopt Medicaid expansion through coronavirus relief. The federal government offered to boost its share of costs in the regular Medicaid program for two years if the states would expand Medicaid to cover more of the poorest Americans. Many able-bodied adults with low incomes are not currently covered, although those making more than 138% of the federal poverty level are eligible for federal health insurance subsidies paid to private insurers through an online marketplace.

In the letter to Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, Georgias senators said they were working on legislation to create a federal workaround or pursue other strategies to provide coverage in holdout states. The two said they want the legislation attached either to President Joe Biden's infrastructure proposal or his proposal to provide additional education and family support benefits.

They said any alternative should not require insurance premiums and should require people who are insured to cover a low share of costs, like the traditional Medicaid program. Warnock and Ossoff didnt outline how they would make up for the state share of the costs over the long term, though.

Judy Solomon, a senior fellow on health policy at the liberal-leaning Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, said one approach could be to use the federal marketplace and subsidize private insurers, creating plans with no premiums and smaller copayments. Another approach would be for the federal government to set up Medicaid-only plans in states that didn't expand the program.

Solomon said there are a lot of details to work out, but that people who were supposed to get coverage in 2014 shouldn't have to wait any longer.

Medicaid expansion is the keystone of Democratic policy demands in most states that have kept narrower eligibility. A federal workaround would give Warnock a major achievement as he seeks election to a full six-year term in 2022.

An analysis by the Kaiser Family Foundation found the additional federal money offered under the coronavirus relief incentives would send Georgia about $1.4 billion over two years, and the states share of expanding coverage would be about $640 million. Georgia would end up $700 million ahead. More than 450,000 people in the state could become eligible for coverage.

But Republican leaders in Georgia and other states have ignored the enticement. Instead, Gov. Brian Kemp has been pursuing a more limited expansion that would impose work or education requirement to receive the benefits. The plan seeks to add an estimated 50,000 poor and uninsured Georgia residents to the Medicaid rolls in its first two years, with Republicans saying it's a more narrowly tailored, fiscally responsible alternative to a full expansion.

President Joe Bidens administration froze former President Donald Trumps approval of Kemp's plan, although Georgia lawmakers provided money for it anyway in the budget beginning July 1.

One-size-fits-all, government-run health care has failed to deliver results for Georgians in need, Kemp spokesperson Cody Hall said, indicating that's why Kemp has pursued his own plan.

The Georgia House voted 98-68 in March to reject full expansion, with majority Republicans rejecting the Democratic gambit.

Other states have been equally resistant. Republican lawmakers in Wisconsin on Tuesday opened and then closed within moments a special session that had been called by the Democratic governor seeking Medicaid expansion.



Follow Jeff Amy on Twitter at http://twitter.com/jeffamy.
JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  Mississippi's capital city is honoring the civil rights activism of the late Rev. C.T. Vivian 60 years after he and other Freedom Riders were arrested upon arrival in Jackson as they challenged segregation in interstate buses and bus terminals across the American South.

After several days in a local jail, the young activists were transferred to Mississippi's notorious Parchman prison, where guards beat Vivian and others  one of many times that Vivian faced violence as he worked to dismantle systemic racism and injustice.

Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba proclaimed Wednesday as C.T. Vivian Day. The mayor's wife, Ebony Lumumba, presented the proclamation to one of Vivian's daughters, Denise Morse, at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum.

Rev. Vivian remains a source of inspiration for leaders and advocates for justice at every age, because life teaches us that, among other things, we are never too young, never too old, never inexperienced to be on the front lines of this battle for justice, said Ebony Lumumba, a professor of literature.

Cordy Tindell Vivian began challenging segregation in Illinois in the 1940s, became more involved with civil rights activism when he attended seminary in Nashville, Tennessee, in the 1950s and later became an adviser to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

Vivian was 95 when he died July 17 in Atlanta  the same day that his friend and fellow civil rights activist U.S. Rep. John Lewis died of cancer at age 80.

In May 1961, Vivian was 37 and almost a generation older than Lewis, Diane Nash and other college-age Freedom Riders who set out from Nashville on buses into the Deep South. A violent white mob attacked Lewis and others in Montgomery, Alabama.

Vivian joined the other Freedom Riders days later in boarding another bus from Montgomery to Jackson. Mississippi's segregationist governor, Ross Barnett, had cut a secret deal with U.S. Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy: Buses carrying Freedom Riders would be guaranteed safe passage once they crossed into the state, but the activists would be arrested in Jackson.

Black-and-white jail mugshots of Vivian and other Freedom Riders fill a gallery in the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum that opened in late 2017.

Morse lives in Fayetteville, Georgia, and visited Jackson for the first time this week. In the civil rights museum Wednesday, she looked proudly at her father's mugshot and another photo that showed him, Nash, Bernard Lafayette and other activists in Nashville.

Morse said her father never bragged about his activism.

He talked about concepts and values, Morse said. But he rarely talked about who he knew or where he'd been. He was more concerned about nonviolence and justice. That's what he talked about."

During his final years, Vivian worked on a book about his life with author Steve Fiffer. Its in the Action: Memories of a Nonviolent Warrior" was published in March.

Dozens of people gathered at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum on Wednesday to hear about Vivian from Morse and Fiffer, with the author appearing by webcast from his home in Evanston, Illinois.

The presentation started with February 1965 TV news footage that grabbed international attention. It showed Vivian trying to help Black residents register to vote in Selma, Alabama. Face-to-face with a recalcitrant white official, Vivian said: You can't keep anyone in the United States from voting. The sheriff soon punched Vivian in the face, knocking him to the ground.

Three weeks later, thousands of people later marched across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma. Months after that, Congress enacted the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Vivian received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013 from then-President Barack Obama, a man who was born months after Vivian and other Freedom Riders were arrested in Mississippi.



Follow Emily Wagster Pettus on Twitter at http://twitter.com/EWagsterPettus.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  A permanent resident of the United States wanted by China was freed by Dubai on Thursday, taking off on a flight to Turkey after spending weeks in detention.

Beijing had sought Wang Jingyu over his online comments about a deadly confrontation between Chinese and Indian forces last year.

Activists and his supporters say plainclothes police officers arrested the 19-year-old student as he came off an Emirates flight in April at Dubai International Airport, trying to connect on to New York. The State Department acknowledged his arrest, described the case as a human rights" concern and warned that he could have faced extradition to China.

He was freed just hours after The Associated Press began asking questions about his case.

Wang's case comes as the United Arab Emirates, long a U.S. defense partner in the Mideast, has drawn closer to China in recent years in trade and in efforts to combat the coronavirus pandemic. That already has sparked concerns among American officials amid what experts refer to as a looming great powers conflict the U.S. faces with China and Russia.

We remain alarmed by human rights violations and abuses in China and call on (Chinese) authorities to respect the fundamental freedoms to which their citizens are entitled consistent with Chinas international obligations and commitments, the State Department told the AP.

Chinese diplomats in the Emirates did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The Chinese Foreign Ministry also has not responded to requests about Wang.

Wang spoke via a video call from an Emirates flight, showing his ticket back to Istanbul.

The police here are very bad, Wang said. Today, they suddenly brought me on the plane. They didnt even give me back my clothes or shoes, and they gave me these flip flops to wear. They didnt give me anything, just a passport and a phone. Theyre really too awful. Too awful.

Wang came to authorities' attention last year after brutal hand-to-hand combat between Chinese and Indian forces in a valley in the Karakoram mountains, a region disputed following a 1962 war between the two countries. In June, soldiers armed with clubs, stones and fists battled each other for hours in violence that killed 20 Indian soldiers.

Months later, in February, China acknowledged the fighting killed four of its own soldiers. Wang then publicly questioned on social media why the Chinese government waited six months to release the information, sparking a harassment campaign that saw him flee to Istanbul, activists say.

Police in Wang's hometown of Chongqing reportedly have cited him for violating a 2018 law against demeaning heroes and martyrs and called his parents in for questioning. While en route from Istanbul to New York, activists say authorities arrested him on April 6 at Dubai International Airport, holding him first at an immigration jail and later at another at a police station.

While in custody, Wang has been questioned by Dubai police for endangering national security, and has, according to his statements, been visited by both Chinese Embassy (Abu Dhabi) and Consulate (Dubai) staff repeatedly, the rights group Safeguard Defenders said in a letter Wednesday to the UAE's ambassador to the U.S.

They pressured him to sign a document allowing him to be deported back to China, where he is wanted for what can only be described as freedom of speech crimes, the letter added.

A Dubai Public Prosecution charge sheet obtained by the AP describes Wang as facing an investigation over allegedly insulting one of the monotheistic religions, a charge typically referring to insulting Islam. However, the government's Dubai Media Office initially told the AP that Wang instead had been arrested for non-payment of hotel bills" and denied he faced any charge for insulting Islam.

Shown the charge sheet, the Dubai Media Office then said Wang had faced the insult charge later, but hotel payments were settled and charges were dropped and he was let free.

Chinese authorities have not inquired about Mr. Wang, nor did they request his deportation to China, nor has there been any contract between UAE and Chinese authorities with regards to Mr. Wang, the Dubai Media Office said.

The State Department said it had been actively seeking information on Wang's case as he could have been deported to China.

We actively discourage foreign governments from embracing the tactic of menacing journalists and dissidents overseas and will continue to make clear to partners and adversaries alike that this increasingly prevalent practice must end, the State Department said. Freedom of expression should never be criminalized.

The UAE, a federation of seven sheikhdoms on the Arabian Peninsula, maintains close economic ties with China. Over 4,000 Chinese companies operate in the UAE across its economic free zones, with roadwork projects noticeably involving Chinese state construction firms. The UAE imported $40 billion in goods from China and exported $9.3 billion to it in 2019 alone, according to United Nations trade data. Dubai's Jebel Ali port remains an important transshipment point for Chinese goods to the world.

The U.S. also maintains close defense ties to the UAE. Some 3,500 American troops operate in the country, including at Abu Dhabis Al-Dhafra Air Base. Jebel Ali is the U.S. Navys busiest port of call outside of America. The U.S. also plans a $23 billion arms sale to the UAE, including advanced F-35 stealth jet fighters, after Abu Dhabi recognized Israel.

Chinas influence in the UAE, however, has increasingly come under American scrutiny.

Since the coronavirus pandemic, the UAE relied heavily on Chinese vaccines for its initial inoculations amid questions about its efficacy. U.S. diplomats and security officials privately warned the state of Nevada not to use Chinese-made coronavirus test kits donated by the United Arab Emirates over concerns about patient privacy, test accuracy and Chinese government involvement.

The Wall Street Journal this week, citing anonymous U.S. officials, reported that American spy agencies recently saw two planes belonging to Chinas Peoples Liberation Army land at an Emirati airport and unload crates of undetermined materiel. Those officials warned a growing Chinese military presence in the Emirates could affect the UAE's efforts to obtain the F-35.



Associated Press writers Malak Harb in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Huizhong Wu in Taipei, Taiwan, contributed to this report.



Follow Jon Gambrell on Twitter at www.twitter.com/jongambrellAP.
A new Downtown St. Joseph board wants to improve St. Joseph. But first, it would like to know what updates the public wants to see.

Facilitated by state leaders from Missouri Main Street Connection, the Main Street Saint Joseph town hall aims to make Downtown St. Joseph a better place to shop, live and visit.

This town hall meeting will bring the community up to speed, let them know what were about, what we can do for the community and then get their insight, Trevor Tutt, community development planner for the Mo-Kan Regional Office, said.

The meeting will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 27, at Restoration Natatorium, 117 Francis St. All are welcome and its free to attend.

Main Street Saint Joseph wants to pick up where other groups have failed. Tutt said that teaming with the Missouri Main Street Connection, an economic development program that has proven results in assisting Missouri cities to revitalize their downtowns, they will walk the talk.

We have a two-year grant with them. Theyre going to walk us through the process of establishing our organization, he said. Were going to hopefully bring some economic development to Downtown St. Joseph, try to save some of these older buildings and use that to our benefit.

The initiative is an offshoot of a pilot program first launched in 1977 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation to breathe new life into downtowns in America. Since then, its four-point approach (organization, economic vitality, design and promotion) has been used in 43 states and the District of Columbia.

A lot of the towns here in Missouri (like) Cape Girardeau, Lees Summit and Excelsior Springs, have their own Main Street organizations and really benefit from that organization being there, revitalizing the downtown, playing off the historic uniqueness of those properties, to really bring people into the community to shop and tour and vacation, Tutt said.

Before that can happen, the organization wants to know the concerns, opinions and thoughts people have about Downtown.

A lot of feedback were looking for is what the people want to see Downtown. What do they think will survive? What do they think we can help with? What are the problems Downtown? Tutt said.

Taking in all the feedback, Tutt said the organization will be able to make a realistic list of achievable projects with tangible results.

Well be able to whittle that down into an action plan of what is feasible within a certain timeframe so that we can prioritize what to focus on first, Tutt said.

In speaking about the future of the organization, Tutt said hes excited by the idea of business incubators, filling vacant buildings and improving alleys Downtown. But first, he wants to hear other ideas people in the area have.

We have a very unique opportunity here to really make the Downtown a destination, and Main Street is the organization for that, Tutt said.
RIDGEFIELD  Some affordable housing units that remained vacant for several months in Ridgefield might soon become home to new residents as the housing authority recuperates from employment challenges.

Ridgefield has four affordable housing entities that the housing authority oversees: an independent living residence for seniors at Ballard Green, a congregate senior facility at Prospect Ridge, Meadow Ridge family units at Prospect Ridge and general affordable housing spread between both locations.

Earlier this month, the authority reported having 15 unoccupied apartments across all four that remained empty for at least six months despite a waitlist totaling over 600 people.

People can be on waitlists for years at a time so the thought of there being available units, particularly in a town like Ridgefield where generally there arent that many units available at a time, thats significant for people that live in the community or people trying to move closer to the community, Karen McLean, the social work department chair at Western Connecticut State University said.

I think its important and imperative that the town and whoever the residential company is work out a system so they can get the families places as quickly as possible, understanding that with these programs individuals have to be vetted out, she added, noting the availability of these units are critical to those looking and in need.

First Selectman Rudy Marconi said the high number of vacancies is of concern, but that the authority has never approached the town for help and policy-wise, there isnt anything his office can do.

Thats a high number of vacancies, however, I do know personnel replacements were going at that point, he said.

Im not making any excuses, but there should never be that many apartments available at any given time and theres a long list of people waiting for a place to live, so I think they could fill them rapidly.

State officials at the Department of Housing and Connecticut Housing Finance Authority said they are aware of the vacancy issues at these various properties, as well as the property management issues.

Both DOH and CHFA continue to provide technical assistance to address the individual vacancy issues at these properties, as the eligibility criteria does vary between them, DOH spokesman Aaron Turner said. We are confident that the Konover group, along with the current leadership at the Housing Authority, will make the necessary procedural and staffing changes to put make these units available to low and moderate income families in a more reasonable time frame.

State Rep. Aimee Berger-Girvalo said the issue was brought to her attention by a constituent and she has discussed how to tackle it with other local leaders, but the authority falls under federal purview and jurisdiction.

The number of available units has since grown by one, but Frank Coyle, the authoritys chairman, said the agency is currently working on the problem, which is two-fold.

One being the COVID, that affected people. Two being the fact that we were understaffed and had staff turnover, he said.

In a previous interview, Coyle told the News-Times the lag to move people in stemmed from staff turnover. The office has hired three sets of managers since February 2020, which made it difficult to fill the vacancies.

McLean said that affordable apartments often become occupied in no time and go very quickly.

Typically as soon as the signs go up... it can be a matter of a couple of weeks to 30 days when theres more demand for the available units, she said.

Of the 16 vacancies, nine are at the congregate facility, four at Ballard Green and three within the general affordable apartments. The authority said people are in the process of moving into the three general affordable apartments.

And another eight move-ins are expected for June 1 at the congregate facility with an additional two at Ballard Green by July 1, leaving just three apartments to fill.

Progress is being made under the new staff and there are a bunch [of apartments] that are about to be filled, but even as the agency works its way down the list and begins filling apartments, the waitlist is basically unchanged, according to Coyle.

People are moving in, he said.

They have the full staff on board and theyre working it, so I think it will get down below 10 [vacancies] in about a week or two and then drop further after that.
The Biden administration has decided it will not renew a waiver that allowed a politically connected U.S. oil company to operate in northeast Syria under President Donald Trump's pledge to keep the oil produced in the region, according to a U.S. official familiar with the decision.

Treasury Department rules prohibit most U.S. companies from doing business in Syria. The waiver for Delta Crescent Energy was issued in April 2020, months after Trump announced that he wanted to keep some U.S. troops in the oil-rich region to maintain control of the oil profits.

Trump's keep the oil message was no longer U.S. foreign policy under the Biden administration, and using the U.S. military to facilitate Syrian oil production was deemed inappropriate, according to the official, who was not authorized to publicly discuss the decision and spoke on condition of anonymity.

The company was founded in 2019 by James Cain, U.S. ambassador to Denmark under President George W. Bush; James Reese, a retired Army Delta Force officer; and John Dorrier Jr., a former executive with United Kingdom-based Gulfsands Petroleum. Cain, a onetime executive with the NHLs Carolina Hurricanes, has donated more than $30,000 to the Republican Party and GOP candidates over the years.

Northeastern Syria is the center for what remains of Syrias oil industry. It is in shambles but remains one of the main sources of revenues for the Kurdish-led autonomous administration there.

Trump repeatedly spoke of keeping some U.S. troops in Syria to help keep the oil" and secure the oil," but his aides sought to dispel the idea the United States was trying to profit from the region's oil reserves. After DCE's license, from the Office of Foreign Assets Control, to operate became public last August, the State Department issued a statement in which it underscored that the United States government does not own, control, or manage the oil resources in Syria."

Trump's comments about Syria's oil frustrated critics, and some allies, who said the loose talk fed into the narrative that American policy in the Middle East was driven by U.S. energy concerns and they argued it undercut U.S. diplomatic efforts to press for peace and stability in the region.

Dorrier, DCE's CEO, said the company had some $2 billion in contracts to sell oil into the international market that will benefit American allies in northeast Syria that have helped in the fight against the Islamic State group. He said Trumps comments did not lead to the company winning the oil licensing agreement and that presidential orders issued during the Obama administration had invited U.S. companies to apply for licenses in agriculture, telecommunications and oil and gas in Syria.

If the Biden Administration chooses not to renew the OFAC license, it will be a substantial change in policy that does not support Coalition Allies who fought and died to eliminate ISIS, Dorrier said in a statement. Depriving our Allies of the opportunity for sanctions relief on critical infrastructure as laid out by the Obama administration would, in effect, turn the North and East of Syria over to Russian, Regime and Iranian forces.

Dorrier also said Trumps keep the oil message was hyperbole, not policy.

The White House press office declined to comment about the decision, stating that as a general matter it does not comment on specific licenses, including to confirm whether one exists.

Biden administration officials, during a visit this month to northeast Syria, stressed to Kurdish administrators overseeing the area that the U.S. military presence was exclusively focused on preventing an IS resurgence, according to a State Department official who was not authorized the discuss the matter publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.

The news site Al-Monitor was first to report of the administration's decision to end the waiver.

DCE said it has not received word from the Treasury Department that the license, which was set to expire at the end of April, will not be renewed. The department typically gives companies additional time to wind down operations, according to the U.S. official.

A former U.S. official familiar with the discussions said the administration has been communicating that it does not intend to renew the waiver but had not taken final action yet. This person was not authorized to publicly discuss the matter and spoke on condition of anonymity.

The Treasury Department did not respond to a request for comment.

The U.S. decision to allow an American company to refine and market oil was denounced by Syrian leader Bashar al-Assads government and ally Russia after it became public last August, not long after then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo acknowledged during the a congressional hearing that the Kurdish-led administration in northeast Syria had come to an agreement with an American oil company.

Trump became focused on northeastern Syrias oil in October 2019 after he abruptly announced his intention to draw down U.S. troops deployed against IS in the area.

At the time, Turkeys president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, had been pressing Trump to withdraw troops from the region. With his decision, Trump cleared the way for a Turkish military assault and effectively abandoned Kurdish fighters who fought alongside American forces in the yearslong battle to defeat IS militants in the region.

But when advisers floated the idea of keeping some troops in northeastern Syria to guard oil fields, it resonated with Trump. It also presented U.S. military commanders -- wary of entirely leaving the area -- with a way to keep some troops in place.

The area controlled by the Kurdish-led autonomous administration shrunk after Turkey's military offensive in northeast Syria in October 2019.

Then-Defense Secretary Mark Esper said at the time that the main goal of the American troop presence was to make sure the IS was contained and unable to gain control of the oil fields and the revenue they generated. The administration also saw some benefit to Kurds being in control of the oil.

Still, Trump repeatedly said in remarks to reporters and on his Twitter account that U.S. troops were staying in Syria to keep and protect northeast Syrias deep oil reserves.

We stayed back and kept the oil, Trump told reporters in November 2019. Other people can patrol the border of Syria ... and Turkey. Let them. Theyve been fighting for a thousand years. Let them do the border. We dont want to do that. We want to bring our soldiers home. But we did leave soldiers because were keeping the oil. I like oil. Were keeping the oil.

__

Associated Press writer Eric Tucker in Washington contributed to this report.
DANBURY - The city has given the green light for a $36 million rehabilitation hospital on a 13-acre site within the sprawling residential development known as The Reserve.

The rehabilitation hospital, the first in the Danbury area, would be built near the front gate of the 1.2 million-square-foot office park known as The Summit on the citys booming west side.

The state of Connecticut is one of the most under-bedded for inpatient rehab hospitals in the country, and were looking to change that, said Patrick Tuer, president of the northeast region at Encompass Health, an Alabama-based company with 139 rehabilitation hospitals across the country. We provide an intermediate level of care between what Danbury Hospital provides and what skilled nursing homes provide.

The 100,000-square-foot proposal near the New York border was approved Tuesday night by Danburys Zoning Commission and is awaiting a determination by the state Department of Health, known as a certificate of need.

City of Danbury

It was not immediately clear on Wednesday when the state would schedule a public hearing on the Encompass proposal. An attorney representing the healthcare organization said a hearing could come as soon as the summer, with a ruling expected in the fall.

Hospitals across the country have really been hit hard - and one of the ways we help them is to control their length of stay, Tuer told members Zoning Commission during a public hearing Tuesday night. We have not only rehab and physical medicine but internal medicine, nephrology, cardiology, infectious disease, pulmonary and critical care. It is a significantly higher level of care than a nursing home.

Encompass will submit blueprints to Danburys Planning Department for review. Within the first year, the rehab hospital is expected to create 70 full-time jobs that pay an average of $75,000 annually.

The rehabilitation hospital is the latest development for the 550-acre residential subdivision known as The Reserve. Of 2,160 condominiums and apartments that have been approved, 1,980 housing units have been built or are under construction. Of 380,000-square-feet of commercial space thats been approved, 143,000-square feet have been built or are under construction. Among the commercial space thats been developed is Hotel Zero.

Next door to The Reserve is The Summit residential and corporate park, the former Union Carbide world headquarters, where city leaders have struck a deal with the owners to create an upper grade academy for 1,400 students - a first for the state.

The rehabilitation hospital would replace plans for a 100,000-square-foot office building that were already approved. The medical use would attract less traffic to the neighborhood, company representatives told the Zoning Commission.

Under the plan, Encompass Health would buy the 13 acres on Reserve Road and build into the hillside with two retaining walls.

The facility would serve people who have suffered strokes, heart attacks, and neurological ailments by providing physical rehabilitation, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.

Its important to note what this facility isnt - the facility does not offer drug, alcohol or mental rehabilitation, Encompass attorney Ward Mazzucco said at Tuesday nights public hearing. Patients are transfered from an acute hospital such as Danbury Hospital on a non-emergency, basis so there are no sirens.

rryser@newstimes.com 203-731-3342
State Rep. Kimberly Fiorello is facing criticism for comments made Tuesday on the House floor, suggesting sexual assault could be prevented by eliminating drinking and the use of drugs among college students.

I want to say if you care about your friends, and you see the potential for this kind of violence and harm that can come to your friends, and drinking and doing drugs is related to that, then dont drink. Dont do the drugs, said Fiorello, a Greenwich Republican. That might sound so simplistic but if we want to prevent the harm thats done, that is the solution.

The comments occurred during the debate on the bill, which unanimously passed the House. Fiorello took issue with a provision that would provide amnesty to underage students who were under the influence of drugs and alcohol, allowing them to report a sexual assault without fear of punishment.

Initially, Fiorello indicated she understood the logic behind the proposal. About 50% of sexual assault cases on college campuses involve alcohol, research shows.

The violence that was done was more important so dont be afraid of the smaller offenses, come forward and report the greater offense and that makes a lot of sense, Fiorello said. I can see the logic in that.

But then, she offered a different viewpoint, one she said came from her perspective as the mother of four children.

The solution to make sure that our campuses are safe, that our students are healthy and learning and engaging their minds is to send a message of dont drink, she said. Dont imbibe all the alcohol that completely discombobulates you. Dont smoke all that pot. Dont do all those chemicals that change your brain. Go to college, learn and brighten your future, thats the message we want to send.

Her comments were met with swift criticism from her Democratic colleagues and student activists who support and helped craft the legislation, who said they were a prime example of victim blaming. A video of her comments has been circulating on Twitter.

Asked about her statements Wednesday, Fiorello said she was unaware of the condemnation against her. She stood by her comments

If our goal is to make it so less people are getting hurt and traumatized and drug abuse and alcohol abuse is linked to what were trying to solve, the next logical direction is to address the drinking and drugs, she said.

Ali Hagani, state director of Every Voice Coalition CT, a student coalition dedicated to addressing campus sexual violence in Connecticut, a major proponent of the bill, spent the previous few days drumming up support among legislators and was watching Tuesdays debate on her phone while seated in her car in a nearby parking lot when she heard Fiorellos comments.

While not a huge shock, listening to Fiorello perpetuate these misconceptions regarding victim blaming and how the victim is at fault for their own violence was incredibly difficult to hear, she said.

Alcohol and drugs are used as a tool to victimize but not the sole reason behind the violence, said Hagani, a 21-year-old student at Brandeis University.

The bill would also mandate colleges and universities to biannually conduct a student survey on the issue, through which students could offer their comments anonymously. We cant solve a problem if we dont have the data and insights to holistically understand it, Hagani said, adding that most colleges and universities rely on very limited punitive data.

Mike Cerulli, a 20-year-old student at the University of Connecticut who submitted written testimony in support of the bill, posted a video of Fiorellos comments on his Twitter page, saying Rep. Fiorello is just wrong.

Students who organized to pass these vital protections for survivors wont forget these words come 2022, he posted.

Reached by phone later Wednesday, Cerulli, former president of the Connecticut Federation of College Democrats, said he was glad Fiorello ended up voting in favor of the bill.

I hope her comments dont take away from the fact that the bill has strong bipartisan support but nonetheless the comments were disappointing, Cerulli said.

Fiorellos comments reflect a fairly common narrative, he said, that blames victims  if they hadnt been drinking, if they hadnt dressed a certain way. That mentality is dangerous for two reasons, Cerulli said, many cases of sexual violence take place without drugs or alcohol present and every student has the right to have a normal college experience without threat of sexual violence.

State Sen. Will Haskell, D-Westport, who serves on the General Assemblys Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee and worked with the students, was among those speaking out about her comments on Twitter, saying victim blaming has no place in the General Assembly.

At the Capitol Wednesday, Haskell said, In 2021, surely we all recognize that survivors are not responsible for sexual assault and violence. Its the people who chose to commit the violence who are responsible.

julia.bergman@hearstmediact.com
The Mesa Police Department said the adult victim, who has not yet been identified publicly, was found at an apartment complex across the street from Mesa Community College in west Mesa, The Arizona Republic reports.
5 1 of 5 H John Voorhees III / Hearst Connecticut Media Show More Show Less 2 of 5 H John Voorhees III / Hearst Connecticut Media Show More Show Less 3 of 5 4 of 5 H John Voorhees III / Hearst Connecticut Media Show More Show Less 5 of 5









Members of the Ridgefield police department gathered Thursday to honor the lives of past officers who have died, an annual tradition they had to skip last year due to COVID-19 restrictions.

These are the men and women who served before us. We pay tribute to them and remember the good times, Chief Jeffery Kreitz said, noting these officers spent a significant portion of their lives serving and protecting our community, and officers today are an extension of the values and lessons from them.
Norman Hower, Vice President and General Manager of 7-Eleven Canada says: "As Canadians head outside to enjoy their summer, we are excited to kick-start the celebrations with a host of skateboarding activities in local communities - instore and online. We know our customers enjoy skateboarding and our hope is to make the summer even better for our fans by teaming up with Canada Skateboard, and bringing them awesome skateboard themed events online."

7-Eleven Canada's Sev's 360 Summer - Roll With Us campaign celebrates the skateboarding community and it is just one of the many chances to get involved in this summer's activities. 7-Eleven Canada will be giving away one Slurpee Skateboard deck a day, every day all summer long. Customers can enter to win by scanning the 7Rewards app. Slurpee is also introducing new and exclusive summer flavours, which include refreshing Pink Grapefruit Lemonade, Fanta Dragon Fruit, MTN Dew Blue Shock , and Slurpuccino. You can fill them in the exclusive Slurpee Canada Skateboard Collectible Cups, featuring Canada Skateboard's 2021 National Team and a Hide and Seek game to play. The 7Rewards AR game Sticker Slap is another way to have fun this summer.

Ben Stoddard, Chairman and President of Canada Skateboard says: "Canada Skateboard is beyond thrilled to be a part of 7-Eleven's 360 Summer campaign. When we think of what an epic Canadian summer feels like, skateboards and Slurpee are the first things that come to mind. It's truly the perfect pairing."

7-Eleven Canada will also work with two community skateboard parks to host pop-up murals this summer, featuring work by local artists. The first location will be featured in Cloverdale, Surrey for the month of May. Tara Cleave, Manager of Support Services and Accessibility at the City of Surrey says: "We are excited to host such a fun and active initiative here in Cloverdale, Surrey and we want to thank 7-Eleven Canada for giving back to the community with the gift of art."

For those looking to expand and perfect their tricks, Slurpee will also have their own Slurpee Trick Library over on the 7-Eleven Canada website, perfect for both beginners and seasoned skateboarders.

To learn more about all the events and contests with Sev's 360 Summer - Roll With Us campaign, visit 7-Eleven.ca. Customers who are not yet a 7Rewards member can download the 7Rewards app by texting APP to 711247 or sign up at 7-eleven.ca/7rewards/. Fans are also encouraged to check out 7-Eleven Canada's new 7Now Delivery App, where Canadians can get 24/7 pick-up and delivery within 30 minutes on groceries, necessities, meals, snacks, drinks and treats  like Slurpee drinks. Every order through 7Now is one automatic entry in the 360 Summer  Roll With Us contest and with over 900 items to choose from, members will earn 7Rewards points with every order.

7-Eleven, Inc.

7-Eleven, Inc. is the premier name and largest chain in the convenience retailing industry. Based in Irving, Texas, 7-Eleven operates, franchises and/or licenses more than 73,000 stores in 16 countries, including 12,000 in North America. 7-Eleven, Inc. is the premier name and largest chain in the convenience retailing industry. Find out more about 7-Eleven Canada online at www.7-Eleven.ca or on social media @7ElevenCanada on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

SOURCE 7-Eleven Canada

For further information: Lucy Slater, [email protected]
TORONTO, May 27, 2021 /CNW/ - Unifor National President Jerry Dias told a media conference in Mexico City today that immediate and strong action is needed to ensure free and transparent union votes for Mexican workers.

"Destroying ballots is denying them a voice. It's stealing from them their dignity. It's criminal. It's the worst form of exploitation. And it must be punished," Dias told the media conference by Zoom.

Unifor is urging the federal government to send Canadian observers to oversee a union vote at the General Motors plant in Silao, Mexico in June, after a previous contract legitimization vote was marred by corruption and alleged criminal interference by their current union.

Reports out of Mexico include allegations of illegal vote tampering, ballot destruction and worker intimidation by the CTM union, halting a long-awaited ratification vote for roughly 6,000 workers at GM's truck plant in Central Mexico.

The plant makes truck models previously assembled in Oshawa by Unifor members until 2009. Dias said Unifor became involved with the renegotiation of NAFTA to address the issue of jobs moving to low-wage jurisdictions and unequal rights for workers.

"If Mexican workers are suffering. That means Canadian workers are suffering. That means all workers are suffering," Dias said.

"When Mexican autoworkers are given artificially low wages  that puts pressure on Canadian autoworkers to accept low wages. It's a vicious cycle and it has to stop."

Also speaking at the media conference were representatives of Mexican and international labour organizations, including Jesus Abundez Rodriguez of the Auto Federation (FESIIAAAN) and Georg Leutert from the IndustriALL Global Union.

Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector and represents 315,000 workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better future.

SOURCE Unifor

For further information: To arrange for interviews, in-person or via Skype or FaceTime, please contact Unifor Communications Representative Stuart Laidlaw at [email protected] or 647-385-4054 (cell).

Related Links

http://www.unifor.org


SLAVE LAKE, AB, May 26, 2021 /CNW/ - Expander Energy Inc. is moving forward with plans to build the Slave Lake 22 million liter/year Biomass/Gas to Liquids plant (BGTL), the first of its kind in North America, which will produce NET ZERO carbon intensity diesel fuel, jet fuel, and blue hydrogen. This $35 million facility is the first in a series of plants planned for the Slave Lake area which could ultimately reach over 200 million liters/year with an estimated total project cost of $800 million.

The Government of Canada is implementing a Clean Fuel Standard that mandates that all diesel fuels must meet a life cycle Carbon Intensity ("CI") of 86.9 by 2025, a CI of 81.0 by 2030, and be net carbon neutral (CI=0) by 2050.

Expander has completed feasibility engineering and a detailed Carbon Intensity study for the implementation of Carbon Utilization and Sequestration (CCUS) at the facility. A third-party life cycle CI study by Radicle Group Inc. estimates the Synthetic Paraffinic Diesel (SPD) is expected to have a Carbon Intensity of as low as -15 gCO2e/MJ. This exceptionally low carbon intensity fuel should be available for commercial markets by 2024.

In addition to low carbon intensity SynDiesel, the plant will also co-produce Blue Hydrogen with a life cycle CI of as low as -2 kg CO2e/kg.

With a CI of less than zero, Expander's SynDiesel, SynJet and Hydrogen will not only meet Canada's net-zero carbon fuel goal by 2050 but meet it 25 years ahead of schedule.

Expander's diesel fuel, SynDiesel is a drop-in fuel, able to directly replace conventional diesel fuels without the need for modifications to either engine or infrastructure. It is non-toxic, odourless and readily biodegradable. It reduces emissions of pollutants such as Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), Carbon Monoxide (CO), unburnt hydrocarbons (HC) and Particulate matter (PM), the latter being very important to areas with air shed issues such as cities and mountain valleys.

Expander is evaluating market interest in providing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to the Canadian airline industry. Future facility expansions could include production of net-zero CI Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosene (FT-SPK)

Expander Energy CEO Steve Price stated; "The government mandate is for Net Zero CI fuel is 2050. Expander can advance this timeline by decades with our Slave Lake project using our patented BGTL technology. This technology coupled with CCUS allows us to produce world class fuel within 18 months of commencing the project. That's great news for Alberta and Canada".

Partners in the project are Vanderwell Contractors as the provider of biomass feedstock and plant site, AirTechnic as provider of the proven biomass gasification technology, and Startec Compression and Process as module design and fabricator.

The Metis Nation of Alberta (MNA) are also proud supporters of this project, Audrey Poitras, President of the Metis Nation of Alberta stated: "There is an imperative need to take climate change action, and the MNA recognizes that initiatives like this provide an opportunity for the MNA to implement its Economic Strategy by participating in this sustainable resource development. We believe that this opportunity resonates with traditional Metis values for using our resources effectively and wisely".

About Expander Energy

Expander Energy is a privately held technology company with their head office located in Calgary Alberta. Expander is founded and owned by Albertans that have developed and patented technologies to answer the challenges of creating low carbon, high-performing fuels and hydrogen for Alberta, Canada, and world markets. We believe that low carbon intensity fuels and profitability are not mutually exclusive.

Our mission is to revolutionize the fuels of today to provide a bridge to the fuels of tomorrow.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information generally refers to information about an issuer's business, capital, or operations that is prospective in nature, and includes future-oriented financial information about the issuer's prospective financial performance or financial position.

The forward-looking information in this news release relate to Expander's plans to build and operate Canada's first commercial BGTL plant.

Expander made certain material assumptions to develop the forward-looking information in this news release, including assumptions about the availability of financing to build the GTL plant and the demand for paraffinic synthetic diesel and naphtha.

Actual results may vary from the forward-looking information in this news release due to certain material risk factors. For example, Expander can give no assurance that financing will be available, or available on terms acceptable to Expander. Furthermore, there can be no assurance that there will be sufficient demand for paraffinic synthetic diesel and naphtha to make the plant economical even if financing is available on terms acceptable to Expander.

Expander assumes no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking information in this news release unless it is required to do so under Canadian securities legislation.

SOURCE Expander Energy Inc.

For further information: Steve Price, CEO, Expander Energy Inc., [email protected], www.expanderenergy.com

Related Links

www.expanderenergy.com/


TORONTO, May 26, 2021 /CNW/ -- EY Canada and Easly (www.fundeasly.com) are working together to provide innovative Canadian companies with a comprehensive solution to optimize applications for the Federal government's Scientific Research & Experimental Development (SR&ED) and other investment tax credit (ITC) and grant programs. Companies that look to EY Canada to accurately and efficiently claim SR&ED and other ITCs and grants will now have on-demand access to non-dilutive financing from Easly, which allows swift and strategic investment in their growth.

Easly makes it possible for companies to access the benefits of programs like SR&ED throughout the year, providing them with opportunistic working capital, improving their cash flow and diversifying their capital mix. The funding Easly provides directly ties to the total ITC and grant amount a company can expect to receive. "Collaborating with EY's tax consulting experts to provide customers with an end-to-end solution for both consulting and financing will create great value for innovative Canadian companies," says Minal Shankar, CEO of Easly. "EY's focus on building strong client relationships aligns with our Capital-as-a-Service approach to financing. Our shared values and complementary skills will create real benefits for businesses large and small, allowing them the freedom to focus on their research, development and growth."

This collaboration supports EY's global ambition to help companies in Canada and around the world drive their digital agendas. A streamlined process with reliable access to Easly's capital will enable EY's clients to flourish in the digital age and embrace transformation as the new normal. Accurate record-keeping and tax filing are an integral part of Easly's funding process, and the expertise EY has in that domain will further streamline Easly's ability to deliver funding to the hands of innovative Canadians faster. Companies will benefit from the synergy of this collaboration through maximized returns, improved cash flow, and simplified access to capital, culminating in a best-in-class customer experience.

"We're excited to work with Easly to further support Canadian entrepreneurs, innovators and startups as they look to accelerate their growth journeys," Susan Bishop, National Leader SR&ED and Business Tax Incentives. The process to prepare and apply for SR&ED and grant programs can often be complex and daunting. By working with Easly, we can help companies navigate the uncertain, accelerate the process and get funds sooner. Addressing the roadblocks to provide the necessary resources and funding to innovators in a timely manner will be key to helping Canada retain intellectual property and grow its innovation economy."

The Federal Government's 2021 Budget included a focus on building an innovation economy for the future of the country, and funding available to Canadian companies saw an enormous increase. This includes an additional $7.2 billion for the Strategic Innovation Fund, which is accessible to companies operating across many different sectors.

About Easly:

Easly Solutions Corp. is a market leader in investment tax credit and grant financing. Through its Capital-as-a-Service financing platform, Easly provides Canadian companies of all sizes with non-dilutive capital that's accessible throughout the year by leveraging a company's accruing tax credits and grants. Bringing the receipt of these funds forward enables companies to strategically invest in their growth without having to trade equity.

Fundeasly.com | LinkedIn

Media Contact:

Mark Tucker

EVP Marketing

[email protected]

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mktucker/

SOURCE Easly
TORONTO, May 27, 2021 /CNW/ - FEI Canada is proud to announce the creation and launch of FEI Canada Private Company Committee, a national initiative to support our private company financial leaders who make up over 50% of FEI Canada's 1,500 members.

With four dynamic thought leadership groups focused on Private Company M&A, Finance, Multi-Generation Family Businesses, and Entrepreneur Successions and driven by an engaged volunteer committee of over 25 private company financial executives from across Canada, FEI Canada's Private Company CFO Initiative is now Canada's premier support and networking resource for financial executive members in the private sector.

FEI Canada's Private Company CFO Initiative represents a unique Canadian resource in the private company sector Tweet this

"CFO's working in the private sector face a singular challenge  they have neither the resources nor the support that their public company peers enjoy and have nowhere to turn for guidance. FEI Canada's Private Company CFO Initiative represents a unique Canadian resource in the private company sector  an opportunity to have peer to peer conversations with fellow private company members who also work in an entrepreneurial environment and face similar challenges", said Georgina Blanas, Executive Director of FEI Canada.

FEI Canada Board Chair Jeff Shickele is pleased to announce The Targeted Strategies Group as a Founding Sponsor of FEI Canada's Private Company CFO Initiative.

"The Targeted Strategies Group (TTSG) is proud to be a Founding Sponsor of FEI Private Company, an initiative aimed at private company CFOs who are key drivers of an organization's success and ultimate value", says Susan Kichuk, CEO of the Targeted Strategies Group. "We work with entrepreneurs and families to protect, preserve and optimize their net worth and we look forward to collaborating with FEI Canada members who share the same goals."

FEI Canada's Private Company Committee: helping private company CFOs to become better CFOs and better leaders.

Become a member of FEI Canada today. Learn more at www.feicanada.org.

For more information, please visit our website www.feicanadaprivatecompanies.ca or call Ross Campbell, Chair, FEI Canada Private Company Committee at 647 271 0956 or email [email protected].

About Financial Executives International Canada (FEI Canada)

Financial Executives International Canada (FEI Canada) is the leading voice and informed choice for senior financial executives across the country. With 12 chapters and 1,500 members, FEI Canada provides professional development, networking opportunities, thought leadership and advocacy services to its members. The association membership consists of senior-level financial executives spanning various industries, functions, and disciplines, representing a significant number of Canada's leading and most influential corporations. For more information, please visit www.feicanada.org or follow us on LinkedIn https://ca.linkedin.com/company/fei-canada and Twitter @FEICanada.

About The Targeted Strategies Group

For more than 20 years, The Targeted Strategies Group (TTSG) of companies has helped successful entrepreneurs and families protect, preserve, and optimize net worth by using proprietary life insurance solutions. Our team of more than 100 professionals collaborates with our clients and their advisors to provide ideas, strategies, and solutions to complex problems. Learn more about our services at www.targetedstrategies.com.

SOURCE Financial Executives International Canada

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OTTAWA, ON, May 27, 2021 /CNW/ - Lobster fishing has been tightly woven into the cultural and economic fabric of Indigenous and coastal communities in Atlantic Canada and Quebec for generations. To help these same communities thrive for generations to come, we all need lobster stocks to remain healthy. To achieve this shared goal, we need to continue to build and expand our understanding of the species.

Today, the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, the Honourable Bernadette Jordan, announced the launch of the Lobster Science Partnership Roundtable. On June 15th, Fisheries and Oceans Canada scientists, Indigenous partners, commercial fishing representatives, and other key researchers will come together to discuss their most important research questions and priorities, with the shared goal of increasing our knowledge around lobster stocks.

Recognizing that more can be achieved together than in silos, the Lobster Science Partnership Roundtable will draw on the knowledge and expertise of multiple partners. Overall, the partnership aims to develop a common picture of the most important lobster science research questions, identify new areas of work, and discuss how we can work together.

This forum will offer the opportunity to discuss key topics including the impacts of climate change on lobster, how changes in habitat might affect lobster populations in the future, how lobster move throughout the year, and the direct impact fishing is having on populations. The more information we have in these areas, the better decisions we make, and the better we can manage the lobster fishery in the future.

Quotes

"All harvesters depend on a strong, sustainable lobster fishery. Where there is a common goal, there is a benefit to working in partnership. By coming together to share data and research, we will not just improve our fisheries management, but also strengthen ties between Indigenous and commercial fishers. The lobster fishery is absolutely fundamental to Atlantic Canada, and managed well, it will continue to employ and feed thousands of Canadians for generations to come."

The Honourable Bernadette Jordan, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard

Quick Facts

Lobster is Canada's most valuable seafood export and an iconic Canadian species exported around the world. Canadian lobster landings remain at one of the highest levels recorded in 100 years, with an upward trend over recent decades.

most valuable seafood export and an iconic Canadian species exported around the world. Canadian lobster landings remain at one of the highest levels recorded in 100 years, with an upward trend over recent decades. The majority (66%) of Canadian lobster exports are destined for the United States . Other key markets include Asia ( China and South Korea ) and the European Union ( Belgium , Spain ). Lobster is also exported to an additional 52 countries.

. Other key markets include ( and ) and the European Union ( , ). Lobster is also exported to an additional 52 countries. Lobster landings averaged nearly 100,000 tonnes per year between 2017 and 2019, with average landed value of $1.5 billion . Lobster exports from 2017 to 2019 averaged over $2.3 billion per year.

. Lobster exports from 2017 to 2019 averaged over per year. As a major source of economic activity for Atlantic Canada , a well managed lobster fishery is an important contributor to Canada's blue economy.

, a well managed lobster fishery is an important contributor to blue economy. A Blue Economy Strategy will protect and revitalize ocean health while growing the ocean economy with special consideration for Indigenous peoples, women and other underrepresented groups.

Science and technological innovations, and the invaluable knowledge of Indigenous communities, play a key role in growing a blue economy and protecting ocean health.

Until June 15, 2021 , Canadians can participate in online engagement which will collect the diverse perspectives from coast to coast to coast, helping us shape a Canadian Blue Economy Strategy.

Associated Link

Stay Connected

Follow Fisheries and Oceans Canada on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

Follow the Canadian Coast Guard on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

Subscribe to receive our news releases and more via RSS feeds. For more information or to subscribe, visit http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/media/rss-eng.htm

SOURCE Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) Canada

For further information: Jane Deeks, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, 343-550-9594, [email protected]; Media Relations, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 613-990-7537, [email protected]

Related Links

http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca


 Also, updates announced for a special meeting

of investors and a repositioned fund 

TORONTO, May 27, 2021 /CNW/ - Franklin Templeton Canada today announced updated risk ratings for certain funds.



The new risk ratings indicate how a mutual fund fits within the current spectrum of risk rating classifications defined by the Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA). These changes are a result of the firm's annual review process and are not the result of any alterations to the investment objectives, strategies or portfolio management of the funds.

The risk rating changes detailed in the table below will be reflected in the funds' annual prospectus renewal, which is expected to be filed on or around May 31, 2021.

Fund Name Current Risk Rating New Risk Rating Franklin Bissett Monthly Income and Growth Fund Low Low to Medium Franklin Core ETF Portfolio Low Low to Medium Franklin U.S. Rising Dividends Fund Low to Medium Medium

Special meeting of investors now virtual



Due to current government restrictions related to the pandemic, the special meeting of investors related to the proposed merger of Templeton Global Bond Fund (Hedged) into Templeton Global Bond Fund will now be held in a virtual-only format. The special meeting will be held on June 11, 2021 at 9 a.m. EDT.

As previously announced, investors are strongly encouraged to vote in advance of the proxy voting deadline via any of the methods described in the notice and access document that they were provided. Investors who would like to attend the virtual meeting can access it at franklintempleton.ca/tgbfhmeeting.

Revised plan for fund repositioning



The effective date of the repositioning of Franklin Strategic Income Fund as Franklin Brandywine Global Income Optimiser Fund has been updated to occur on June 4, 2021. As previously announced, the fee reductions and series consolidations for this fund will occur today, May 27, 2021.

Investors are encouraged to speak to their financial advisor about these changes. Franklin Templeton's client service team is also available between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. EDT at 1-800-387-0830 or [email protected].



About Franklin Templeton

Franklin Templeton Investments Corp. (also known as Franklin Templeton Canada) is a subsidiary of Franklin Resources, Inc. [NYSE:BEN], a global investment management organization with subsidiaries operating as Franklin Templeton and serving clients in over 165 countries. Franklin Templeton's mission is to help clients achieve better outcomes through investment management expertise, wealth management and technology solutions. Through its specialist investment managers, the company brings extensive capabilities in equity, fixed income, multi-asset solutions and alternatives. With offices in more than 30 countries and approximately 1,300 investment professionals, the California-based company has over 70 years of investment experience and approximately US$1.5 trillion (approximately CAN$1.9 trillion) in assets under management as of April 30, 2021. For more information, please visit franklintempleton.ca and connect with Franklin Templeton on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn, and read the Beyond Bulls & Bears blog.

Risk Classification Methodology

The methodology used to determine the risk rating of each fund is based on the CSA's Risk Classification methodology. A summary of this methodology and the investment objectives and strategies of each mutual fund can be found in the fund's prospectus, which will be available on or around May 31, 2021. The methodology is also available by calling Franklin Templeton Canada's client service team at 1-800-387-0830 or sending an email to [email protected]. In accordance with the standardized Risk Classification Methodology mandated by the CSA, Franklin Templeton Canada reviews risk ratings annually, at a minimum, as well as when a fund undergoes a material change.

Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the prospectus or fund facts document before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.

Copyright  2021. Franklin Templeton. All rights reserved.

SOURCE Franklin Templeton Investments Corp.

For further information: Media Contact: Sarah Kingdon, Corporate Communications, Franklin Templeton, 416.957.6191, [email protected]

Related Links

http://www.franklintempleton.ca


The six Romanian citizens operated out of Orlando and traveled around the country in search of targets, sometimes stealing from as many as 85 churches a day. They then used different pseudonyms to deposit the stolen checks into multiple bank accounts and withdraw the money before banks could flag the charges, according to a release.
Ontarians in rural communities to benefit from increased connectivity

OTTAWA, ON, May 27, 2021 /CNW/ - Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted how much we rely on our connections. Now more than ever, Canadians across the country need access to reliable high-speed Internet as many of us are working, learning, and staying in touch with friends and family from home. Right now, too many Canadians living in rural and remote communities lack access to high-speed Internet. Through the Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) Rapid Response Stream, the Government of Canada is taking immediate action to get Canadians connected to the high-speed Internet they need.

Today, Neil Ellis, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Member of Parliament for Bay of Quinte, on behalf of the Honourable Maryam Monsef, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Rural Economic Development, announced just over $700,000 in federal funding to bring high-speed Internet to 1,111 underserved households in the communities of Bancroft, Carrying Place and Mountain View, Ontario. Cogeco Connexion is investing $324,000 and Bell Canada is investing nearly $1.7 million.

The Universal Broadband Fund was launched in November 2020. The projects being announced today were approved within six months of the formal launch of the now $2.75-billion program. Projects funded under the UBF, as well as through other public and private investments, will help connect 98% of Canadians to high-speed Internet by 2026 and achieve the national target of 100% connectivity by 2030.

Today's announcement builds on the progress the Government of Canada has already made to improve critical infrastructure in Ontario. Since 2015, the federal government has invested more than $2.85 billion in over 4,060 infrastructure projects in Ontario communities with a population of fewer than 100,000 people. These investments mean 452 km of new or upgraded roads that are making our communities safer; more than 938 projects to provide residents with cleaner, more sustainable sources of drinking water; and more than 5,427 additional housing units built in rural communities, helping ensure all Ontarians have a safe place to call home.

Quotes

"Accessible high-speed Internet is essential in our digital age, whether it be for supporting Canadians' access to job opportunities, online health care and educational services or for holding video calls with loved ones. This infrastructure plays a big role in providing communities across the country with equal access to our connected world. Today's announcement of successful Rapid Response Stream projects in our area is the news that our communities have been waiting for. I look forward to continued cooperation as these projects progress, bringing high-speed Internet to all Canadians."

 Neil Ellis, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Member of Parliament for Bay of Quinte

"Access to high-speed broadband networks will be a driver of Canada's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and of future social and economic prosperity, and Bell has committed to further accelerating our industry-leading capital investment plan over the next two years to connect even more communities across the country. We're proud to invest $1,689,000 and to partner with the Government of Canada in providing residents of Bancroft with access to the fastest fibre home Internet speeds available."

 Bruce Furlong, Senior Vice-President, Access Engineering and Deployment, Bell Canada

"Cogeco is thrilled to move ahead with these broadband infrastructure projects. As part of these investments, we will deploy our fibre-to-the-home solution that is capable of delivering speeds of up to 1 Gbps and allows for services comparable to those available in major urban centres. This will surely contribute to reducing the digital divide between urban and rural areas in Ontario, which is crucial for the communities we serve, while also driving economic recovery."

 Matt Wickham, Vice-President and General Manager, Ontario Region, Cogeco Connexion



Quick facts

Canada's Connectivity Strategy aims to provide all Canadians with access to Internet speeds of at least 50 megabits per second (Mbps) download / 10 Mbps upload.

The Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) is a $2.75-billion investment designed to help connect all Canadians to high-speed Internet. Applications to the UBF were accepted until March 15, 2021 , and are now being evaluated.

investment designed to help connect all Canadians to high-speed Internet. Applications to the UBF were accepted until , and are now being evaluated. The UBF is part of a suite of federal investments to improve high-speed Internet. The suite includes the Connect to Innovate program, which is expected to connect nearly 400,000 households by 2023, and the recently announced $2-billion broadband initiative from the Canada Infrastructure Bank.

Associated links

Stay connected

Follow Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada on Twitter: @ISED_CA

SOURCE Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

For further information: Marie-Pier Baril, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Rural Economic Development, [email protected], 613-295-8123; Media Relations, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, 343-291-1777, [email protected]

Related Links

http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/icgc.nsf/eng/home


One measure of support is the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF), delivered in the West by Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD). RRRF supports eligible tourism businesses and other small- and medium-sized enterprises and organizations that have not been able to access other federal relief measures. RRRF also aids organizations that support a broad range of tourism sector activities, such as industry associations and groups like destination marketing organizations.

Support for the tourism business ecosystem in the Prairies

Today, Terry Duguid, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages (Western Economic Diversification Canada) and to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change (Canada Water Agency), on behalf of the Honourable Melanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for Western Economic Diversification Canada, announced over $8.4 million for 20 tourism business support organizations across the Prairies. Federal support has allowed these organizations to continue to help clients cope with the pandemic, comply with health measures, and be ready to welcome back visitors when it is safe to do so.

This funding is part of more than $108.5 million provided to nearly 990 western Canadian tourism businesses and organizations struggling with pandemic-related challenges. Nearly two-thirds of those businesses are in rural communities that are ill-equipped to absorb the loss of tourism business.

On February 5, WD announced an additional $250 million in RRRF funding for Western Canada. WD is still accepting applications from small businesses until June 30, 2021, to offset COVID-related losses during the first 12 months of the pandemic. In smaller and rural communities, Community Futures organizations have already approved more than 4,000 applications across the West and are ready to accept more, especially from tourism-focused businesses and organizations.

These investments complement measures in Canada's Economic Response Plan, such as CEBA , CEWS, and HASCAP to which tourism businesses and organizations have access to face the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Quotes

"Tourism businesses are important economic drivers and that is why our Government is providing businesses vital support to get through the COVID-19 crisis and prepare for when it is safe again to travel. Our Government is committed to the economic recovery of this important industry, and our message to tourism business owners and workers is clear: we will be there to support you for as long as it takes, with whatever it takes, and we will get through this together."

The Honourable Melanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for Western Economic Diversification Canada

"Tourism is a valued and key sector in the Prairies. These businesses have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and required assistance to continue to weather this storm. Funding support such as RRRF will enable tourism businesses to sustain their operations, keep Westerners employed, and safely welcome visitors back to the Prairies when possible."

- Terry Duguid, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages (Western Economic Diversification Canada) and to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change (Canada Water Agency)

Quick facts

The Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) is a $2 billion backstop to mitigate financial pressure experienced by businesses due to the COVID-19 pandemic and help them to continue their operations and keep paying their employees.

backstop to mitigate financial pressure experienced by businesses due to the COVID-19 pandemic and help them to continue their operations and keep paying their employees. Nationwide, 25 per cent of RRRF funding is being earmarked for the tourism sector.

In the West, over $800 million in RRRF support is flowing through Western Economic Diversification Canada.

in RRRF support is flowing through Western Economic Diversification Canada. So far, RRRF has protected over 38,700 jobs in Western Canada by providing nearly $600 million to support over 8,900 businesses and organizations, of which over 45 per cent are located in rural areas and nearly 30 per cent are owned by women.

Related products

Associated links

Backgrounder

Today, the Honourable Melanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD), announced more than $8.4 million through the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF), for 20 tourism business support organizations across the Prairies.

Project funding enabled the following tourism industry associations and destination marketing organizations in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba to provide important services to local tourism companies such as mentoring, networking, skills training, market intelligence, as well as support to transition to a digital marketplace.

Alberta

Banff & Lake Louise Hospitality Association - $124,450

Banff & Lake Louise Tourism - $500,000

Explore Edmonton - $300,000

- Indigenous Tourism Alberta - $50,000

Tourism Calgary - $300,000

- Tourism Canmore Kananaskis - $100,000

Tourism Industry Association of Alberta (TIAA) - $100,000

(TIAA) - Tourism Jasper - $250,000

Travel Alberta - $2,500,000

Saskatchewan

City of Regina - $45,000

Economic Development Regina Inc. (Tourism Regina) - $625,000

Saskatchewan Commission of Professional Outfitters Incorporated - $100,000

Commission of Professional Outfitters Incorporated - Saskatoon Downtown Business Improvement District - $65,000

Saskatoon Prairieland Park Corporation - $175,000

Regina Exhibition Association Limited - $140,000

The Saskatoon Visitor & Convention Bureau Inc. (Tourism Saskatoon) - $675,000

Tourism Saskatchewan - $750,000

Manitoba

Economic Development Winnipeg - $812,450

Entreprises Riel - $71,700

Travel Manitoba - $800,000

Stay Connected

Follow the department on Twitter: @WD_Canada

WD Homepage

WD Toll-Free Number: 1-888-338-WEST (9378)

TTY (telecommunications device for the hearing impaired): 1-877-303-3388

SOURCE Western Economic Diversification Canada

For further information: Catherine Mounier-Desrochers, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, [email protected]; Western Economic Diversification Canada, Media Relations, [email protected]

Related Links

http://www.wd.gc.ca/


OTTAWA, ON, May 27, 2021 /CNW/ - Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of Canada has introduced historic measures to support Canadians, including the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB). The CERB helped more than 8 million Canadians pay for things like food and rent when we first asked people to stay home and flatten the curve.

The CERB's eligibility criteria were made as broad and inclusive as possible so that workers who needed support could get it; especially for the self-employed whose income takes different forms.

As announced in February, self-employed workers who applied for the CERB and would have qualified based on their gross income are not required to repay the benefit, provided they also met all other eligibility criteria. Today, the Government of Canada announced further details on how this approach will be applied.

Self-employed workers whose net self-employment income was less than $5,000 and who applied for the CERB will not be required to repay the CERB, as long as:

They have filed their 2019 and 2020 income tax returns by December 31, 2022 ;

; Their gross self-employment income was $5,000 or more in 2019 or in the 12 months prior to their initial application; and

or more in 2019 or in the 12 months prior to their initial application; and They met all other CERB eligibility criteria.

The CRA will review the 2019 and 2020 income tax returns of workers in this situation to verify that these conditions are met.

Starting on May 27, 2021, self-employed workers who meet the remission order criteria and who had voluntarily repaid all or part of the CERB to the CRA or Service Canada can request a reimbursement of their payments only from the CRA. These workers can do so by completing the CRA's CERB Reimbursement Application for Self-Employed Individuals form and submitting it to the CRA electronically or by mail.

The CRA will begin processing applications after June 15, 2021. Eligible Canadians who repaid the CERB can expect reimbursements within approximately 90 days of submitting their applications to the CRA.

Quotes

"The Government of Canada remains committed to supporting Canadians as we continue to tackle one of our biggest historical challenges. Starting today, self employed workers who applied for the CERB in good faith can apply to have the Government reimburse their CERB repayments. This will help to ensure that self-employed individuals continue to receive financial support throughout the pandemic."

- The Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of National Revenue

"From day one, we said we would be there to help Canadians get through this difficult time and that's what we did. Emergency supports like the CERB have helped millions of Canadians get through the most difficult and uncertain times of this pandemic. Today's announcement demonstrates our continued support to Canadians and their families. By taking these steps, we are giving certainty to self-employed workers who applied in good faith for the CERB."

 The Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion

Quick Facts

The Canada Emergency Response Benefit and Employment Insurance Emergency Response Benefit Remission Order grants relief of the collection of certain overpayments and certain payments of the CERB for self-employed individuals who applied for the CERB and would have qualified based on their gross income. The remission order was approved by the Administrator in Council on the recommendation of the Minister of Employment and Social Development Canada and Treasury Board on April 30, 2021 .

grants relief of the collection of certain overpayments and certain payments of the CERB for self-employed individuals who applied for the CERB and would have qualified based on their gross income. The remission order was approved by the Administrator in Council on the recommendation of the Minister of Employment and Social Development Canada and Treasury Board on . The remission order for self-employed individuals is published in the Canada Gazette.

Individuals who have not made a repayment to the CRA or Service Canada and meet the eligibility criteria for the remission order do not need to contact the CRA or Service Canada to confirm that they will not have to repay the CERB.

The CRA may reassess 2020 income tax returns for individuals who are reimbursed CERB repayments, to reflect the CERB as appropriate. If necessary, the T4A slip or RL-1 slip will be amended to include the full CERB amount received in 2020 and the income tax return adjusted accordingly. Workers who received the CERB from Service Canada will receive an amended T4E slip, if necessary.

The application period for the CERB closed on December 2, 2020 . Individuals can only be reimbursed for periods that they repaid. Individuals cannot apply for the CERB retroactively.

Stay connected



Follow the CRA on Facebook

Follow the CRA on Twitter  @CanRevAgency

Follow the CRA on LinkedIn

Subscribe to a CRA electronic mailing list

Add our RSS feeds to your feed reader

You can also watch our tax-related videos on YouTube

SOURCE Canada Revenue Agency

For further information: Jeremy Bellefeuille, Director of Communications, Office of the Minister of National Revenue, 613-995-2960; Marielle Hossack, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, [email protected]; Media Relations, Canada Revenue Agency, 613-948-8366, [email protected]; Media Relations Office, Employment and Social Development Canada, 819-994-5559, [email protected]

Related Links

http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/


PLATEAU ENERGY METALS INC., ALEXANDER FRANCIS CUTHBERT HOLMES and PHILIP NEVILLE GIBBS, File No. 2021-16

TORONTO, May 27, 2021 /CNW/ - The Commission issued an Order in the above named matter.

A copy of the Order dated May 27, 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


President Joe Biden ordered to scrutinise the Covid-19 origins report within 90 days. China declares I t should be done by WHO experts. The US demanded China to cooperate with an international probe for the search.

China highlighted the dark history of the US intelligence community, as President Joe Biden ordered to scrutinise the Covid-19 origins on Wednesday as the lab-leak theory repeats. President Biden demanded US intelligence agencies to report to him within 90 days with results on whether the virus came from China through an animal source or from a laboratory mishap which will bring us to a definite conclusion.

China denies the theory of the possibility of the virus emerging from a virology lab in Wuhan and has blamed the US for selling conspiracies and politicizing the pandemic and believes it as an attempt to distract from the high death rates in the US.

Also read: Amid showdown over WhatsApp Data Policy, double standard over privacy policy exposed

China Foreign Ministry, Zhao Lijian declared that if full and transparent investigation on the Coronavirus origins is what US is seeking for, then it should be done by WHO experts and also clear the unexplained respiration illness of July, 2019. The Foreign Ministry speculated USs own motives and purposes behind such probe.

After Biden ordered intelligence agencies who have split into over the two possible sources for the virus which shook the whole world has escalated controversy over how the virus first emerged, whether through animals at a market in Wuhan, or through an accident from a research laboratory in the same city. Chinese embassy urged that the order to investigate China regarding Coronavirus origin was irresponsible behaviour on the United States part.

The US will keep working with partners cordially around the world to force China to allow a full, transparent, evidence-based international investigation and to provide access to all relevant data and evidence, said Biden, as he calls out China to cooperate with an international probe for the search.
Fugitive Indian diamantaire Mehul Choksi, who went missing from residence in Antigua and Barbuda, has been taken into custody by Dominica Police. Mehul Choksi, wanted in the Rs 13,000 crore Punjab National Bank scam case, was speculated to have fled Antigua.

Fugitive Indian diamantaire Mehul Choksi, who went missing from residence in Antigua and Barbuda, has been taken into custody by Dominica Police. Fugitive diamond trader Mehul Choksi, wanted in the Rs 13,000 crore Punjab National Bank scam case, was speculated to have fled Antigua. The Antigua police has filed a missing persons report on the diamond trader, who is wanted in the multi-crore PNB scam case.

Mehul Choksi had taken the citizenship of the Caribbean island nation of Antigua and Barbuda. He was last seen at 5.15 pm on Sunday (May 23) evening while leaving his residence in a car. The Johnson Point Police Station in Antigua had earlier filed a case on Mehul Choksi going missing from Antigua. According to Prime Minister of Antigua, Gaston Browne, the government authorities are trying to trace Choksi and citizens have been asked to inform police if they have any information. The bigger question now remains will India finally get him back to the country.

Legally, as per Section 17 and 23 of the Immigration and Passport Act, Mehul Choksi can only be deported to Antigua, the fugitive diamantaires counsel said on Thursday. Advocate Vijay Aggarwal, Counsel for Choksi, while responding to media said that Choksis deportation directly to India cannot be done. In a statement, Advocate Aggarwal stressed that Mehul Choksi had acquired the citizenship of Antigua and hence he ceased to be a Citizen of India. Hence, legally, as per Immigration and Passport Act Section 17 and 23, he can be deported only to Antigua.

Also Read: Congress Toolkit Row: Delhi Police summons Sambit Patra, Congress leaders as part of its probe

Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne said fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi, who has been found in Dominica, will be repatriated to India, and Indian authorities are in touch with those in Dominica.
If convicted in juvenile court, Larizza said, the teen would possibly get out in just about seven years  when he turns 21. But even if Fucci is convicted in adult court and sentenced to life, he would still be eligible for a sentence review after 25 years because he was still a minor when the crime took place, Larizza said.
During his three days stay in Washington DC, Jaishankar will meet his American counterpart, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, along with other key members of the Biden administration.

During his three days stay in Washington DC, Jaishankar will meet his American counterpart, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, along with other key members of the Biden administration. Covid-19 has provided the clear subtext to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankars interactions with his US counterpart Anthony J. Blinken for the moment and it will the top of the agenda for their meeting in the US today. It is the first visit by a high-level Indian Minister since Democratic President Joe Biden entered office in January this year along with his Indian-origin Vice-President Kamala Harris.

US Congressman Brad Sherman is looking forward to meeting External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar to discuss various issues, including global vaccine production, and security issues in the Indo-Pacific. While recent developments in the sphere of international power games and regional politics mean that the US and India find their interests are more aligned than ever, it is the pandemic and Indias urgent need for vaccines that commentators widely agree is the most immediate issue on which New Delhi needs the US to pitch in.

Jaishankar is currently on a five-day visit to United States. Jaishankar arrived in the US on May 24, and is slated to visit many senior officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during his stay till May 28. Jaishankar is also scheduled to meet US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin at the Pentagon on Friday.

Also Read: #USEagleEyeOnXi: US introduces Eagle Act to counter China; end of Xi nearing?

India is engaged in talks with various US entities involved in Covid vaccines production and is looking forward to procuring and subsequently producing these vaccines. The issue of vaccine procurement is expected to be a key agenda item during Jaishankars interaction with US leadership and other stakeholders.
SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  For Vanessa Gregson, the four-lane highway that borders the beach along San Francisco's Pacific Ocean is now an automobile-free sanctuary where she can blissfully ride her bicycle and enjoy the quiet.

You hear the beach. You hear the waves, said Gregson. You feel like youre in nature, and youre in San Francisco.

Like cities from Paris to New York that shut roads to motorists when the coronavirus hit, environmentally friendly San Francisco closed miles of streets to automobiles so people could exercise and socialize safely.

Now, pedestrian advocates want to keep some of San Francisco's most prominent streets off-limits, like the main road into Golden Gate Park. Others are pushing back, saying they need to drive to work, drop off kids and get around.

The debate has been marked by dueling rallies and strident arguments over safety and climate change in the densely packed city. On social media, customers threatened to boycott a bakery whose owner expressed support for reopening the main oceanside thoroughfare known as the Great Highway to cars; others came to her defense.

Shamann Walton, president of San Francisco's Board of Supervisors, was mocked for likening the closure of John F. Kennedy Drive in Golden Gate Park to the Jim Crow South, including by fellow African Americans who call his accusations of segregation silly. Walton says he worries that closing the street and its free parking will affect low-income families that cant easily bike or take transit to the park.

For Tim Boyle, who lives near the four-lane beachside highway, life has been anything but peaceful. Unable to use the main road, massive delivery trucks, gangs of motor bikes and impatient drivers now hurtle through his once-sleepy neighborhood.

Boyle, whose son has cerebral palsy, says taking out their wheelchair-equipped van has become a nightmare. Essentially Im stopping traffic on any given day, four to 10 cars backed up on each side just so I can pull my own car into my driveway," he said.

San Francisco officials started turning streets into pedestrian-friendly promenades in April 2020 after the mayor declared an emergency. Officials closed more than 45 miles (72 kilometers) of neighborhood corridors and are studying which ones could be permanent.

They also sealed off a 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) portion of JFK Drive, the main thoroughfare through Golden Gate Park, which sees more than 24 million visitors a year, and a 2-mile (3.2-kilometer) stretch of the Great Highway  now renamed by some as the Great Walkway  that carried more than 18,000 vehicles a day before the pandemic.

San Franciscos streets are scheduled to reopen 120 days after Mayor London Breed lifts the COVID-19 emergency declaration, which could come next month. Various agencies are navigating the public debate before deciding whether to fully reopen the Great Highway and JFK Drive, open them in part or keep them closed to vehicles. The Board of Supervisors will have the final say, said Tamara Aparton, a city parks spokeswoman.

Seattle and New York are also among U.S. cities looking to make temporary auto-free streets permanent. In Europe, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo announced plans to ban most vehicular through-traffic in the city's center, with exceptions for public transit, delivery trucks and residents.

Pedestrian advocates say there are options to ensure that people who can't easily bike or walk can still visit Golden Gate Park, including designated drop-off sites and programs for low-income families. They also want more so-called street calming measures to slow traffic and improve safety on affected neighborhood roads.

San Francisco is no stranger to shedding auto infrastructure for green spaces. Leaders chose not to replace the Embarcadero freeway after it was damaged in the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, replacing it with a boulevard that now doubles as a popular tourist destination.

Despite the testy debate, most people are probably in the silent middle, wanting both open space and clear transportation routes, said Connie Chan, a supervisor whose district is affected by the closures along the beach and in Golden Gate Park. They just want to be able to go where they need to go, and not be stuck in traffic," she said.

Katharine Lusk, co-director of the Boston University Initiative on Cities, said more than 90% of 130 U.S. mayors in 38 states surveyed last summer reported they created more space for outdoor dining by using parking spots or closing streets. Nearly half closed some streets to through-traffic; a smaller portion shut streets entirely to autos. While only 6% said they plan to make those changes permanent, Lusk wonders if that might change with rising demand.

On a recent sunny weekday, a few dozen people organized by Walk San Francisco toasted the one-year anniversary of the street closure in Golden Gate Park. Charles Oppenheimer said his daughter Olivia, 11, once feared riding through the third most-visited city park in the United States.

There's cars double-parked and rage drivers through the park, honking at kids, and now that it's shut down, it's so much better, he said.

Near the west end of Golden Gate Park, more than 100 people gathered before blockades on the highway earlier this month, waving signs calling to reopen the road. Passing drivers honked in support as a musician blew tunes on a bright pink sousaphone.

The highway runs two lanes each way, with sandy beach and the Pacific Ocean on one side and a protected pedestrian path edged by succulents on the other. A parallel two-lane street has homes on one side, many with placards pleading to Open the Great Highway.

Since the neighboring streets began absorbing displaced traffic, Judi Gorski has documented numerous crashes. The car fumes, speeding, noise and near-wrecks make her feel trapped in her home of four decades, where she says the traffic goes on all night long.

For photographer Steve Rhodes, who walked one recent day along the nearly empty Great Highway after visiting the de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park, it is liberating to have the space to move around.

"The intersections with the cars are just a nightmare," he said. There should be more streets closed and it's going to have to happen, because people are going to have to rely less on cars.
OMAHA, Neb. (AP)  Canadian National railroad plans to address competitive concerns related to its $33.6 billion acquisition of Kansas City Southern by selling off a short section of rail line.

Canadian National CEO JJ Ruest said he believes selling 70 of the 27,000 miles of track the two railroads own will help it get regulatory approval for the deal. The railroads resubmitted their application for initial approval of the deal on Wednesday and tried to address questions the Surface Transportation Board raised last week.

On Friday, Canadian National won the bidding war for Kansas City Southern over a competing $25 billion bid from Canadian Pacific railroad, but CP said it plans to continue pursuing regulatory approval for its combination with Kansas City Southern so it will be prepared if the CN deal fails to get approval.

Canadian National said the rail line that would be sold connecting Baton Rouge and New Orleans in Louisiana is the only area where the two companies directly overlap. Yet Canadian Pacific maintains that competition will be hurt across much of central United States because Canadian National and Kansas City Southern both operate parallel rail lines that connect the Midwest to the Gulf Coast. Canadian Pacific said its proposed combined rail network would also divert more traffic around Chicago while CN's plan would send more railcars through that already congested area.

Canadian National plans to set up a voting trust that would acquire Kansas City Southern and hold the railroad during the Surface Transportation Board's lengthy review of the overall deal. Last week, regulators rejected CN's initial plan for that voting trust because at that point the railroads hadn't submitted a detailed copy of their merger agreement, but the STB said it would take a cautious approach to approving the plan. The board also questioned whether the level of debt Canadian National plans to take on to buy Kansas City Southern would undermine the financial stability of the railroad.

We believe our early commitment to eliminating the minimal rail overlap and to laying out the case for a CN-KCS combination should allow the STB to approve our voting trust, Ruest said.

CN tried to address regulators' concerns in its latest application. Ruest said he believes CN will be able to meet the board's standard and demonstrate that its acquisition serves the public interest. He also said CN would remain in a strong financial position because it has suspended stock repurchases and plans to pay down debt quickly if it's allowed to acquire Kansas City Southern.

Ruest said Canadian National would be able to address any other concerns about the deal later in the review process after the voting trust is approved.

CN's bid for Kansas City Southern includes $200 cash and 1.129 shares of its stock for every KCS share. The deal also includes about $3.8 billion in Kansas City Southerns debt.

The Surface Transportation Board hasnt approved any major railroad mergers since the 1990s, so its current merger rules havent been tested. It has generally said that any deal involving one of the nations six largest railroads needs to enhance competition and serve the public interest to get approved. The board has also said it would consider whether any deal would destabilize the industry and prompt additional mergers.

Canadian Pacific already received approval for its plan to use a voting trust to acquire Kansas City Southern before KCS decided to accept Canadian National's offer. CP CEO Keith Creel reiterated Wednesday that he still believes his offer for Kansas City Southern is the better one, even though it is lower, because it has a better chance of getting regulatory approval. CP has refused to increase its bid.

Canadian National said it would be unfair for the Surface Transportation Board to reject its proposed voting trust plan at this point because regulators would essentially be taking sides in the bidding war and CN's plan is nearly identical to the one Canadian Pacific proposed

Canadian National said in its application for approval that CP's continued pursuit of the deal is a blatant attempt to have the board force KCS into an undesired merger.
NEW YORK (AP)  British banking giant HSBC says it is closing its U.S. retail banking business in order to refocus its efforts on wealth management.

The bank will sell 80 East Coast branches to Citizens Bank and another 10 on the West Coast to Cathay Bank. All deposits and bank accounts will be transferred to those two banks, HSBC said. Another 20 to 25 branches will be converted into wealth management centers, and any remaining branches will be closed.
MILAN (AP)  Carla Fracci, an Italian cultural icon and former La Scala prima ballerina renowned for romantic roles alongside such greats as Rudolf Nureyev and Mikhail Baryshnikov, died Thursday at her home in Milan. She was 84.

Milans Teatro alla Scala announced her death without giving a cause. Italian news reports said she had been fighting cancer.

The Milan theater recalled the fairytale rise of the daughter of a tram driver who through talent, obstinance and work became the most famous ballerina in the world" and inspired generations of young people.

Carla Fracci was a cardinal figure in the history of dance and that of La Scala, but also a point of reference for the city of Milan and Italian culture," the theater said in a statement.

She leaves us in amazement, on tiptoe like Giselle, a spirit that remains with us, filling the ballrooms, the stage and our hearts, said La Scalas ballet director, Manuel Legris. We feel a great void that, at the same time, makes us feel full and rich in all her history  which is the history of ballet  and privileged to have shared her art.

Fracci was born in Milan on Aug. 20, 1936, and spent World War II with relatives in the countryside to escape the frequent bombardment of the industrialized Lombardy capital. In a recent interview with Sky TG24, Fracci described her younger self as a farmer, who knew nothing of the theater or the world of dance much less those little shoes.

But after the war, an observer remarked on her grace and musicality, recommending she try out for La Scalas academy.

She was accepted at age 10, riding her father's tram each day to the academy, and graduated in 1954, at age 18. Her first stage appearance was in 1955 with other graduating ballet students at the close of a staging of Bellinis La sonnambula conducted by Leonard Bernstein, directed by Luchino Visconti and starting Maria Callas.

She got her first break substituting for French dancer Violette Verdy in Cinderella the same year, and by 1958 had risen to the role of prima ballerina.

Her global fame soon spread, with invitations to the Royal Festival Hall, followed by doors opening in the United States, even while remaining a central figure at La Scala. She was most identified with the role of Giselle," which she danced with Nureyev and Baryshnikov as well as Danish star Erik Bruhn.

Later partners included La Scala's own Roberto Bolle, who remembered Fracci for her human generosity."

In 1969, Fracci received the Dance Magazine Award, considered one of the greatest prizes for a dancer.

Performing for camera as well as live audiences, Fracci also played lead roles in the teleplay Verdi" and the film Nijinsky" by Herbert Ross. A bona fide Italian celebrity, she frequently appeared on Italian television and was equally the darling of popular magazines.

Italy's premier, Mario Draghi, called her a great Italian, and President Sergio Mattarella, said she had honored her country with her elegance and her artistic efforts, the fruit of intense work.

Fracci last danced at La Scala in 2000, in the role of Luce in Excelsior. She was invited back in January of this year to teach a masterclass on Giselle, which was broadcast on La Scalas social media channels and is part of a documentary series by RAI state television.

It was very moving to be back at La Scala, after more than 20 years," she told Sky TG24.

La Scala's general manager, Dominique Meyer, recalled her return to the theater as an unforgettable moment for everyone.

"We will always think of her with affection and gratitude, remembering the smile of the last days we spent together, when she felt she had come home again,'' he said.

Fracci is survived by her husband of 57 years, theater director Beppe Menegatti, and their son, Francesco Menegatti, who as a child often traveled with his mother on tour.
AUGUSTA, Maine (AP)  A legislative committee on Thursday voted 9-1 against a proposal to remove police officers protection from lawsuits.

Supporters said it was time to hold police accountable by making it easier to sue individual police officers for their actions. The bill was opposed by law enforcement agencies and others.

The bills sponsor, independent Rep. Jeffrey Evangelos, contended the legal concept of qualified immunity protects bad police officers from being held accountable for misconduct, and he insisted that good police officers have nothing to fear from lifting the legal protection.

New York City and four states recently passed laws ending qualified immunity, making it easier for those who feel they were wronged by police officers to sue them for damages.

The judiciary committee's vote all but kills the proposal. It will proceed with an ought not to pass recommendation.
GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP)  A Glendale man has been arrested for allegedly taking a 15-year-old girl out of state without her parents knowledge, police said Thursday,.

Police said 21-year-old Kadin Alexander Daniel is accused of buying plane tickets to Iowa for himself and the girl.
The result of a months-long push for zoning reform in Connecticut gave both sides reason to declare victory. The reality is the anti-reformers won.

They wanted nothing of substance to change, and thats where we are. Anything that would have started to make a dent in residential segregation in Connecticut was removed or watered down in the final bill, and the result is a maintenance of the status quo.

Proponents could say (and many have) that the housing bill passed by the state House of Representatives is a major step in a state that has long lagged behind its progressive reputation. And its true more people in Connecticut are aware the state is racially segregated and that zoning is a big reason why. It is noteworthy to have the Legislature pass a bill aimed at solving it.

The bill itself, though, which was passed by the Senate and now goes to the governor, is something else altogether. Its not hard to imagine it will do more harm than good to the cause of zoning reform.

This result wasnt inevitable. But nothing was ever going to be easy in a state where suburbs reign supreme.

Throughout the session, there were two major pushes on zoning reform. One, by the Open Communities Alliance, would have taken on an enormous problem with an equally robust solution, calling upon individual towns to play a verifiable role in solving the state housing crisis and face consequences if not. As the organization puts it, Fair Share Zoning  leaves the development of planning and zoning up to towns, as long as their efforts are working to generate housing that contributes to meeting the regional need for affordable housing.

In other words, towns would no longer be able to get away with shrugging their shoulders and blaming market forces for their overwhelmingly rich, white populations. Given the scope of the proposal, its notable that it successfully passed out of one committee before dying prior to a House vote. If theres something to build on, its here.

The other zoning effort was pushed by the nascent Desegregate CT, and even though it was far less sweeping, it attracted vastly more attention, from proponents and detractors.

Proposals included allowing multifamily housing in proximity to main streets, which is already permitted in a number of towns, and near train stations, which absolutely should be allowed. There was also a focus on accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, which are a separate living space on an existing property, and wouldnt make much of a dent in our housing crisis, even though opponents railed against them.

There was a lot of good accomplished by Desegregate CT this year, not limited to raising awareness. Studies publicized how tilted the field in Connecticut is in favor of single-family homes, making clear the procedural hoops that any other kind of development has to jump through, with no appreciable benefit to anyone.

But its also true that Desegregate CTs proposal, as introduced, was already a compromise. It featured small-bore fixes. Then, in the inevitable back-and-forth of the legislative process, the proposal was watered down even further. The parts about main streets and train stations came out. Even the ADUs were softened: towns would be required to allow them, but could also opt out of that clause. Given that any town already had the power to opt in at any time, this effectively changes nothing. There are a few other provisions, all of which are welcome but none that have much real-world impact.

The result was that the consequential proposal died a quiet death, while the better-known plan is likely to pass in a form thats close to meaningless. As Open Communities said in a statement after the House vote, This bill actually may set us back because there is a good chance it will be taken as the legislatures answer to exclusionary zoning for years to come. Its not an answer, its an abdication.

This hasnt stopped opponents from demagoguing about the issue. Home rule is hanging by a thread, Senate Republicans fumed as the bill advanced into their chamber. It isnt, but so what if it was?

But that was always going to happen. Theres nothing more powerful in Connecticut than the suburb, which holds sway over both parties.

That doesnt mean you stop trying. The solution next time around is not to go small. No more preliminary compromises. Stake out a real solution. Plant a flag where it matters and make the case. Do not let 2021 be the last word on zoning reform.

Hugh Bailey is editorial page editor of the New Haven Register and Connecticut Post. He can be reached at hbailey@hearstmediact.com.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP)  A defense lawyer for a New Mexico man accused of threatening to kill President Joe Biden says texts the man sent were taken out of context and were simply political expression."

According to court records, 39-year-old John Benjamin Thornton of Las Cruces was arrested Monday and a criminal complaint alleged he violated federal law by threatening in communications in interstate commerce to injure another person.
The pair had been in custody since last year on charges related to the kids disappearance, but it took many months for prosecutors to untangle the bizarre case before formally charging them with murder. Lori Vallows two long-missing children were found buried on Daybells Idaho property last summer following a multi-state search for their bodies. Their cause of death remains unclear.
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP)  Gov. Tim Walz hopes giveaways including Minnesota State Fair tickets, fishing licenses and state park passes will help pick up the pace of coronavirus vaccinations in Minnesota, which has slowed.

The Democratic governor on Thursday announced that 100,000 people who are vaccinated between Memorial Day weekend and the end of June will be eligible to choose between nine vaccine reward options. The incentives include college baseball tickets, amusement parks passes and a $25 Visa card, among other options.

Walz called the incentive program a wonderful opportunity to vaccinate more Minnesota residents while virus case numbers remain low and more people head outdoors this summer.

All of those things are the perfect timing to get the last bunch of folks to get in and get vaccinated, Walz said during a news conference Thursday. Take advantage of the incentives that we're offering and get out and explore Minnesota. You, your family and your community will be safe and you'll get to see the great things that we have.

COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations have declined in recent weeks after a bump in cases last month driven by virus variants. State health officials reported zero deaths earlier this week for the third time this month, and daily deaths havent totaled more than 22 in months.

Walz said the states vaccination efforts helped blunt the surge in case growth while minimizing hospitalizations and deaths due to the virus.

Vaccinations in Minnesota continue to climb, but at a much slower pace than in the early months of the states vaccine campaign. More than 2.5 million Minnesota residents 16 and older have been fully inoculated.

The goal is for 70% of Minnesota residents age 16 and older to have received at least one dose by July 1, a target President Joe Biden has set for the country. The state sits at 64%  nearly 2.9 million residents  with at least one dose of vaccine as of Tuesday, just shy of Biden's goal but higher than the national average of nearly 50% with one dose, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Minnesota Republican Party Chairwoman Jennifer Carnahan on Wednesday criticized Walz for offering the incentives to get vaccinated while continuing to offer unemployment benefits, which she called excessive and an incentive to not return to the workforce.

Other states are using lotteries as an incentive to get more people vaccinated, including Ohio, Colorado, Maryland, New York state and Oregon.

A southwestern Ohio woman won the states first $1 million Vax-a-Million vaccination prize, while a Dayton-area teen was awarded the first full-ride college scholarship offered by the incentive program, the state announced Wednesday night. More than 2.7 million adults signed up for the $1 million prize in Ohio and more than 104,000 children ages 12 to 17 entered the drawing for the college scholarship.

Walz said state officials chose these incentives to encourage people to go outdoors and ensure more people got a reward instead of a lottery system where a handful received the prize. The governor left the door open for larger prizes in the future should the vaccination rate continue to slow down further.

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Mohamed Ibrahim is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP)  The Vermont Health Department is working with community groups around the state to help Vermonters experiencing homelessness get vaccinated against COVID-19.

A team from Community Health Centers of Burlington is helping to distribute the vaccine in Chittenden County, Vermont Public Radio reported.

On a recent day, the team arrived at the Committee On Temporary Shelter or COTS daystation around noon in an outreach van to give nine people their second Pfizer doses. They had a supply of Johnson & Johnson vaccines for walk-ins. They also go to motels housing people who are homeless during the pandemic.

CHCB runs the state's only homeless health program, giving medical services at no cost, VPR reported. Having relationships with the homeless community helps to get more people vaccinated, said Anna Lisa Reynolds, a CHCB nurse.

Whenever youre working with a community that has been disenfranchised or taken advantage of, passed to the side, that trust is paramount if you want people to have good health goals, she said.

So far, they've vaccinated nearly 200 people, Reynolds said.

In other pandemic-related news:

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BURLINGTON VACCINATIONS

The mayor of Vermont's largest city announced Thursday some upcoming walk-in opportunities to get the COVID-19 vaccine as he said Chittenden County becomes the first county in Vermont to reach the governor's goal of 80% of the eligible population vaccinated.

As of Tuesday, 79.9% of eligible people 12 years and older in Chittenden County and 77.2% of those eligible in Vermont had received at least one dose, he said.

In order to bring this pandemic to an end, we need to keep pushing to reach young people, close racial disparities, and educate and persuade our neighbors and friends on the fence about vaccination," Burlington Mayor Miro Weinberger said in a written statement. Of the residents who have not yet been vaccinated, many are ready and willing  we will keep working hard to make it easy for them to attend a clinic."

Gov. Scott announced last Friday that if the state reaches 80% of the eligible population getting at least one dose, he will lift the remaining virus-related restrictions.

A pop-up clinic will be held Saturday at Burlington Farmers Market on Pine Street, and June 4 and 5 and June 11 and 12 in City Hall Park during Burlingtons Discover Jazz Festival. Another clinic will take place on June 19 near City Hall Park during the Burlington Juneteenth Celebration. The clinics will provide the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine, Weinberger said.

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THE NUMBERS Vermont reported 22 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday for a statewide total since the pandemic began of over 24,180 cases.

Ten people were currently hospitalized with three in intensive care, according to the Health Department.

The Associated Press is using data collected by Johns Hopkins University Center for Systems Science and Engineering to measure outbreak caseloads and deaths across the United States.

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Vermont did not increase over the past two weeks, going from 57.71 new cases per day on May 11 to 24.86 new cases per day on Tuesday.
RENO, Nev. (AP)  For nearly three decades, he was known only as Sand Canyon Joe Doe, the apparent victim of a homicide found in northern Nevadas high desert.

Now, because of clues developed with DNA technology, genetic genealogy tracing and old-fashioned detective work, the native Californian who also lived in western Nevada has a real name, and state and county investigators are trying to jump-start their search for his killer.

Born in Sacramento, Vincent Marion Trapp served in the U.S. Army in the late 1960s and was 43 years old when investigators believe he was killed in the spring or summer of 1991.

His skeletal remains were discovered in March 1992 after an anonymous tip led sheriffs deputies to Sand Canyon, roughly 100 miles (161 kilometers) southeast of Reno and 40 miles (64 km) south of Yerington.

Lyon Countys sheriff publicized his photograph this week and issued a new plea for tips.

We have reached the point we need some more help, said Lt. Jerry Pattison, who works in the agency's major crimes division.

Pattison said in an interview Wednesday he was listening to a crime podcast about advances in technology combining DNA science with genealogy data a couple of years ago, and decided it was worth pursuing approval to contract with a lab that specializes in the work.

Last year, detectives began working with Parabon NanoLabs Snapshot of Virginia to narrow the list of potential family members of the victim using genetic matches from a database called GEDmatch.

Its the same database the Washoe County sheriffs office used two years ago to finally identify a woman whose body was found in 1982 on a trail at Lake Tahoe, and eventually the man they believe killed her.

They closed that cold case, determining Mary Silvani was killed by James Richard Curry. He served prison time for robbery in California before he confessed to a 1982 murder in Santa Clara and two killings in the San Jose area in 1983. Curry killed himself in jail before he went to trial.

Lyon County detectives said Wednesday the new information in the Trapp case prompted them to travel to two states to interview persons of interest. They were able to establish a rudimentary timeline of Trapp's general whereabouts leading up to his death.

Pattison noted he couldnt disclose any names or locations, but said they started talking to relatives and collected DNA from a brother.

Thats how we were able to confirm he was the victim, he said. Its really fascinating.

Detectives in 2015 did isotope testing of the victims hair, which can indicate where someone lived based on the minerals found in a particular region, Pattison said. But in this case, the long list of possibilities ranged from California to the Pacific Northwest, the western Dakotas, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah and Nevada.

It was like everywhere west of the Mississippi. So, the isotopes didnt really help us, Pattison said.

Detectives still dont know the exact date Trapp moved to Nevada. But they did establish he lived at Topaz Ranch Estates in Douglas County from late 1989 through fall 1990, and in Yerington in spring 1991, Pattison said.

Other clues disclosed previously included a dog photographed during the suspected time window of the killing in the area where Trapps body was found. A broken dog collar was found nearby.

We are hoping someone will call with some new information, he said.

Pattison said to call him (775-577-5206), Nevada Division of Investigation agent Matthew Wehn (775-684-7412) or Secret Witness (775-322-4900).
NEW HAVEN  It has been a violent year so far in the city, as it has been elsewhere in the country.

Another person was shot and killed Wednesday night, police said, the citys 13th homicide so far in 2021.

But additional help is on the way, city officials said, as they continue to work to curb the ongoing death and pain.

Mayor Justin Elicker, Acting Chief Renee Dominguez and Community Services Administrator Mehul Dalal discussed the citys plans to combat gun violence and crime at Thursdays Compstat meeting, where police gather with the community to share news and intelligence.

Elicker prefaced the presentation by noting gun violence rose in many American communities in 2020, which saw nearly 19,500 people killed, up from 15,447 the year before, according to the nonprofit Gun Violence Archive.

He attributed the increase to the coronavirus pandemic, which harmed the mental health and economic well-being of many Americans and interrupted social programs and the court system.

Were seeing a significant uptick in violence across the nation, said Elicker. It is very clearly related to COVID.

Dominguez said that as of Thursday morning there had been 45 shootings and 13 homicides this year in New Haven  up from 31 and four at the same point in 2020.

During the year, there have been 59 shootings and 13 homicides in Hartford and 42 shootings and six homicides in Bridgeport, she said.

The citys approach to mitigating the violence is multifaceted, Dominguez said.

The department will conduct targeted crime suppression efforts, she said, shifting officers and resources on a daily and weekly basis to try to tamp down on troubled areas in the city. Bicycle beats, re-instituted for the summer, began Wednesday. The departments shooting task force has widened its reach, as the department partners with police agencies in other communities.

Project Longevity, which meets with gang and group members at risk of becoming involved in violence, and Project Safe Neighborhoods, which deals with at-risk individuals, both have held call-ins this year and have more scheduled in the coming months.

Police officials also have conducted 90 custom notifications in 2021, meeting with individuals believed to be at risk of violence, Dominguez said. Thats about how many, historically, theyve done in an entire year, she said.

We realized this year is a different year and we needed to do more, said Dominguez.

Dalal said the city planned to use summer reset funds, provided by the federal government through the American Rescue Plan, to hire an additional four to five street outreach workers, which would at least double the amount in New Haven.

The Connecticut Violence Intervention Program, headed by Leonard Jahad, reaches out to people in the wake of violence, seeking to provide aid to hurting families and dissuade retaliatory violence.

Dalal said the city also is hoping to hire four additional workers for the Youth Connect program, which works with at-risk young people in New Haven, and devote a social worker to help the highest-risk cases at the new Project MORE re-entry center, which offers services to people returning to the city from prison.

Elicker praised the efforts of police and staffers to date. He said he went to the scene of Wednesday nights homicide, where a West Haven man was fatally shot on Sherman Parkway.

Officers, he said, had showed tremendous compassion in dealing with the mans loved ones. Jahad and Stacy Spell, project manager of Project Longevity in New Haven, have shown great care in trying to help people and dissuade violence, Elicker said.

Although the future is uncertain, the city has successfully drawn down the level of violence at hand in the past, he said.

In 2020, the city saw 20 homicides , the most since 2013, and 121 non-fatal shootings, up from 11 homicides and 78 shootings in 2019. There were 274 incidents of shots being fired, up from 151 in 2019.

But, as officials have previously noted, crime has fallen since 2011, when 34 people were killed and 133 wounded, and since the heights of the 1990s.

I think we have a strategy that is doing more ... (and) that has been proven to work in the past, said Elicker. But I think we can expect a challenging summer.

The Rev. Boise Kimber, senior pastor of First Calvary Baptist Church and leader of the Greater New Haven Clergy Association, held a press conference in the wake of recent violence Thursday and blamed Elicker for not doing enough to address the increased crime in New Haven.

If we do not get control over the violence in this community, people are going to begin to take things in their own hands because they feel as though there is no one that is watching, no one that cares and that no crimes are being solved, Kimber said.

Kimber said the situation is getting more desperate.

I need to share with you. It is a 911. People are afraid in this city, because you never know where a bullet is going to come from. And Im saying to families, members of my church, community people, we must bear some blame to get our houses in order, to get our kids in order, and stop being surprised when people are being shot at and killed in this city, said Kimber. We have a responsibility to be our neighbors keeper, and we need to step up to the charge and we need to do what is right and responsible for our own community.

Elicker said the city was open to suggestions on how to bolster its violence intervention strategy, reiterating that it had proven successful in the past.

He said it was unfortunate that Kimber continued to hold press conferences to criticize the citys efforts instead of coming together with officials in a constructive manner.

As a member of the departments clergy academy, Kimber is invited to help canvass neighborhoods and speak with residents in the wake of shootings, Elicker noted.

We need to come together as a community instead of holding press conferences and criticizing, said Elicker.

william.lambert@hearstmediact.com
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP)  A former contractor with the U.S. Postal Service admitted in court Thursday that he stole cash and gift cards from mail in the Kansas City metro area and gave them to his girlfriend.

Tyrone V. Read Jr., 27, of Warrensburg, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to possess stolen mail matter.
The new guidelines, slated to begin as an interim plan in June with final rules set to take affect in September, will only allow for foot pursuits when there is probable cause for an arrest or it is believed an individual has committed, is committing or is about to commit a crime.
(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.)

Julio Angel Alicea, University of California, Los Angeles

(THE CONVERSATION) The Research Brief is a short take about interesting academic work.

The big idea

One way to examine a teachers personal connection to their students community is to ask them to create a hand-drawn map, based on memory, of the neighborhood where they teach. My study found that teachers whose maps represented personal ties to the community, including local businesses or cultural spaces, were observed to be more skilled at making connections to the everyday experiences of their students.

This supports previous research that shows the more connected teachers are to their students neighborhoods, the more authentically they can incorporate local resources, history and concerns into their classroom teaching. For example, they might incorporate interviews with students families into an English unit on immigration stories, or have geometry students design a ramp for elders with wheelchairs.

As a Ph.D. candidate studying how racism and inequality impact schools, I examined how a teachers connection to their schools neighborhood influences their teaching. My research at a public high school in South Central Los Angeles combined classroom observations and interviews with teachers with the aforementioned maps.

All teachers in the study were dedicated to their craft and integrated best practices of a teaching approach known as culturally relevant education, which emphasizes social justice values and respect for student cultures. For example, culturally relevant education might involve encouraging students to discuss the changing community immigration patterns in class or having students conduct their own research on why particular groups were drawn to live in their community.

Still, I observed that teachers who were in the know made stronger links to students communities in their lessons.

For example, a teacher Ill call Nicole created a detailed map with purple hearts representing places she felt at home  such as her elementary school and the home of extended family  and red drops where shootings had occurred.

I often observed Nicoles intimate understanding of the community seep into her English lessons. For example, while teaching The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, a novel by Sherman Alexie, Nicole pushed her students to personally connect with the text. Many [Indigenous folks] dont leave their reservation, the community, she said. For us that would be South LA.

Nicoles impact on her students was evident in the quality of classroom discussions and student writing that I observed.

Meanwhile, another teacher I observed, whose map revealed much less familiarity and engagement with the community, was unaware of the controversy around attempts to rebrand South Central as SOLA, short for South Los Angeles  a move deemed by local residents as furthering the areas gentrification. Therefore her lessons on racism in urban communities failed to make this local connection.

Why it matters

Due to teacher shortages and systemic underfunding of classroom and school-wide resources, urban schools often struggle to provide the quality of culturally relevant education present in Nicoles classroom.

Culturally relevant education has been linked to many positive academic outcomes, including gains in literacy, math and English language test scores. The same research has also shown that when youth feel engaged in classroom lessons, they score higher on tests and other assignments.

What still isnt known

Given that culturally relevant education seeks to empower students to think critically about the assets and challenges present in their communities, its effectiveness is not easily captured on standardized tests. More research is needed to examine its long-term impacts. Without this evidence, schools and districts may not fully invest in implementing it.

More research is also needed on teacher preparation programs that cultivate community connectedness in future teachers. Ball State Universitys Schools Within the Context of Community program, for example, matches prospective teachers with community mentors as part of their training. At the Aquetza Academic Summer Program at the University of Colorado Boulder, teachers in training regularly reflect on their practice while working to serve their mostly Latino students.

Whats next

I will return to Nicoles school in the fall of 2021 to continue to document the relationship between community connectedness and teaching. With schools reopening for in-person instruction, I will also gather the perspectives and experiences of families, staff and returning students.

[Youre smart and curious about the world. So are The Conversations authors and editors. You can get our highlights each weekend.]

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/teachers-in-south-central-la-who-had-personal-ties-to-the-neighborhood-made-better-connections-with-students-157658.
WEST HAVEN  For years, Frank Corso sat on the sidelines.

As a veteran of the Army Air Forces during World War II, Corso has attended the citys Memorial Day parade annually, but never felt compelled to march.

So when Corso, 99, was invited to serve as one of two grand marshals of West Havens Memorial Day parade on May 31, he said he was surprised to be considered.

He said he recognizes Memorial Day as a chance to celebrate veterans who have passed, but he never had considered it might be him leading it.

This is what I call big time. I cant wait! he said. Id see soldiers going by every year. I dont think I missed any. Little did I know Id be in it.

Peter Hvizdak / Hearst Connecticut Media file

Corso, who did radio service for fighter pilots, was stationed in Iwo Jima for about two years, but completed his service shortly before the famed Battle of Iwo Jima. The memories of his service that he willingly shares, however, have little to do with battle.

My bunk sunk right into the ground and it was hot, he said.

I also didnt know Id get along with as many men as I did, but we all got along fine, he recalled. If you got a package from home, we opened it up and we all ate.

Ned Gerard / Hearst Connecticut Media

One of his clearest memories is the trip home from Iwo Jima  he said on the six-day boat ride home he had nothing to eat. He said when he finally reached land, even his captain noticed him going up for several servings.

Although Corso has lived in a senior home in Milford for about two years, he lived in West Haven for his whole life up to then. He said he waited to marry his sweetheart until he returned from the war, buying a house in the city. The pair were then married for 75 years.

I think Ive been fortunate I had a beautiful wife who only passed away last year and that Ive lived in West Haven. Ive been very fortunate, he said.

Corso will turn 100 in July.

Corso will be joined as grand marshal by Mike Pimer, an 83-year-old Navy veteran. Like Corso, Pimer is humble about his service.

I did my thing like every other guy in the world. Its a celebration, and thats about it, Pimer said. You did your service, you did your time, you did everything. Some of us got away without a scratch and some of us didnt.

Peter Hvizdak / Hearst Connecticut Media file

Pimer said his primary interest in serving as grand marshal is to support his friend Corso.

Im just coming along to be with him. I want to give company to Frank, he said.

Pimer served stateside in 1955-61 and again from 1962-68, according to the city.

Pimer said he views his time in the Navy, which includes two six-year domestic tours, as a voluntary act of service, but something he has since put behind him. Now, he focuses on serving his city.

I think West Havens great. Ive been here my whole life, Ill die here, I hope. Its a good little town, he said.

Pimer, who was joint New Haven-West Haven harbor master for 16 years, remains engaged with making the harbor accessible to all residents.

Myself and a group of men built the docks for the sailing venue and put it at Savin Rock, he said.

Pimer owned and operated Professional Sea Service Inc., a West Haven watercraft company that took Coast Guard and immigration personnel and cargo to and from ships outside of New Haven Harbor, as well as Underwater Swimmers Inc., a dive shop, according to the city

Dave Ricci, president of the West Haven Veterans Council, said he chose Corso and Pimer based on their experience and seniority. He said he is excited that the parade will be held, after it was canceled last year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Peter Hvizdak / Hearst Connecticut Media file

We all missed it, the parade last year. It was unfortunate with this virus running around, but all the people were disappointed and I cant blame them for being disappointed, he said.

We may get a decent crowd out there, Ricci said. I think everybody is excited to have it this year. Its like tradition in West Haven and its going to be fun.

The 1.5-mile parade course travels from Campbell Avenue from Captain Thomas Boulevard to Center Street. It steps off at 10:30 a.m. May 31.

West Haven is very lucky to share Memorial Day with Frank Corso, Mayor Nancy R. Rossi said. We also welcome an opportunity to celebrate Mike Pimer, his military service and his many volunteer hours in service to our city.

The parade is scheduled to include a flyover by a C-130 Hercules, a four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft operated by the Connecticut Air National Guard, according to the city.

brian.zahn@hearstmediact.com
GOMA, Congo (AP)  Tens of thousands of people are fleeing the city of Goma in eastern Congo fearing another volcanic eruption by Mount Nyiragongo, which spewed lava near the city last week. Traffic was jammed and pedestrians streamed through the streets, desperate to escape the impending danger.

A new eruption could occur at any moment, the military governor of Congos North Kivu province, Lt. Gen. Constant Ndima Kongba, announced Thursday. He ordered the evacuation of 10 of the 18 neighborhoods in the city of nearly 2 million residents.

Full of fear, residents from many of the unlisted neighborhoods also fled after no warnings of Saturdays eruption left so many in harms way.

The center of Goma, which was spared when the volcano erupted last week, is now under threat, with activity being reported near the urban area and Lake Kivu, Kongba said.

Based on these scientific observations, we cannot currently rule out an eruption on land or under the lake. And this could happen with very little, or no, warning, he said. An eruption under Lake Kivu could also have harmful consequences by leading to an explosion of gas in the lake, which could destroy parts of Goma and Gisenyi in neighboring Rwanda.

Residents were advised to carry very little and told not to return to their homes until advised by authorities. Authorities provided vehicles for the evacuations.

Many people were seen heading northwest toward the town of Sake and east toward Rwanda. International organizations such as the U.N. mission in Congo had on Wednesday already begun evacuating their staff.

Maguy Balume told The Associated Press by phone that she left her home with her two children and is heading for Sake.

I am with my two children heading toward Sake, after leaving my home. My husband is on a mission in Kinshasa and I dont know how Im going to meet him, she said. I dont think about my house because my familys safety and health come first. I can build another house if I want to. I know that my God will save Goma.

Mount Nyiragongo, one of the worlds most active volcanos, turned the dark sky fiery red Saturday night and then spewed torrents of lava into villages on the outskirts of Goma destroying more than 500 homes and resulting in the deaths of more than 32 people.

Scientists at the volcano observatory werent able to adequately warn the public of the eruption because of a funding cut, according to the scientific director of the Volcanic Observatory of Goma, Celestin Kasereka Mahinda.

A partnership between the government and the World Bank that had supported the observatory was cut in October 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic, leaving the observatory without even internet, he said. The observatory had just started to resume operations last month thanks to new funding from the U.S. Geological Surveys Volcano Disaster Assistance Program, which means the observatory can at least gather data after the eruption.

Data wasnt needed for many who felt hundreds of aftershocks this past week that have left gigantic cracks in the ground and destroyed buildings. The volcano sits about 6 miles from Goma.

I am fleeing the volcano, I am going to Rutshuru because I have no choice, said Alliance Simba who was leaving with her son.

Aminata Kavira, another woman evacuating, said had no idea where she would go, but grabbed her belongings and left her home.

We knew that the situation was becoming precarious, Kizito Alexis, a resident of Goma told AP, adding they have been told lava will likely hit their homes. The situation is serious and all the people are leaving and I am leaving for Bukavu, a city about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Goma.

Suzana Komayombi said the need to flee was all too familiar, as she also evacuated in 2002 before an eruption took everything she owned.

The first time there was an eruption we lost everything, today we still take the same road as in 2002, she said.

Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya said the situation was complex and Goma faced a number of risks: increased earthquakes, another volcanic eruption, a gas explosion under the lake, and ambient environmental toxicity caused by volcanic ash.

Mount Nyiragongos last eruption was in 2002, leaving hundreds dead. The lava coated the airport runways and also left more than 100,000 homeless in the aftermath. The volcano also erupted in 1977, killing more than 600 people.

___

Kudra reported from Kasindi, Congo. AP writer Jean-Yves Kamale in Kinshasa, Congo and Carley Petesch in Dakar, Senegal, contributed.
PHOENIX (AP)  Republican Sen. Michelle Ugenti-Rita is running for Arizona secretary of state, looking to propel her advocacy for more stringent voting laws into the state's top elections office.

The Scottsdale lawmaker announced her campaign plans on Wednesday night.

Ugenti-Rita sponsored a controversial bill that will purge people from the permanent early voting list if they skip two election cycles. The measure, which was signed this month by Gov. Doug Ducey, was passed over fierce opposition from voting rights groups and some business executives who said it would make it harder for infrequent voters to cast a ballot. Ugenti-Rita said the measure would prevent ballots from going to people who don't appear to be interested in voting by mail.

Ugenti-Rita is chairwoman of the Senate Government Committee, a position she's used to push for more restrictive voting laws even before President Donald Trump and some of his supporters used unsupported theories of fraud in the 2020 election to press for sweeping changes to election law.

In the GOP primary, Ugenti-Rita faces state Rep. Mark Finchem, a Tucson Republican who worked with Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani to sow doubt about Trump's narrow loss in Arizona and was at the Jan. 6 rally that became an insurrection. Finchem's campaign website includes false allegations of election fraud.

Democrat Katie Hobbs is widely expected to run for governor rather than seek a second term as secretary of state.

Ugenti-Rita in 2018 became a face of the #MeToo movement in Arizona when she publicly accused a fellow lawmaker, Republican Rep. Don Shooter, of repeated sexual harassment. Her claims eventually contributed to Shooters expulsion from the Legislature.

Later, in a deposition for lawsuits filed as a result of Shooter's expulsion, a lobbyist said she felt sexually harassed when she received unwanted explicit photos of Ugenti-Rita from her now-husband. Ugenti-Rita said in her own deposition that she didn't know her partner would send the photos to the lobbyist.

Arizona has no lieutenant governor, and the secretary of state is first in line to take over if the governor leaves before the end of his term. That's happened three times since 1988.

In addition to oversight of elections, the secretary of state maintains campaign finance and lobbying records, runs the state library and archives, registers trademarks and licenses notaries.
Im the new opinion editor at the Hearst Connecticut Media Group, and I need a favor: Tell me how you feel about this state, please? In 25 words or less?

Tell us how you feel about Connecticut, in 25 words or less. Send to opinion@hearstmediact.com

Like this line from longtime Simpsons writer Mike Reiss, who grew up in Bristol. He told the New London Day:

Connecticut is a very, very nice and wonderful place, with nothing interesting about it whatsoever ... No noticeable landmark comes to mind.

Or this lovely line by Amanda M. Salzano, who recently moved here from New York City:

Since our move, my dog asks to go out for walks instead of hiding whenever I bring out his leash.

For a while, it was fashionable to hate on Connecticut. But now were enjoying a lovefest as New Yorkers like Amanda rediscover were magical.

Do you love CT, or would you rather leave it? Tell us why you love or hate or tolerate Connecticut, in 25 words or less. Let us know at opinion@hearstmediact.com. See More Collapse

You dont have to fall into the love or hate camp. I fall in the Connecticut drives me crazy but makes me proud category. I gripe about it to my husband and brag about it to my sister in California.

My all-time favorite line about this state, by the way, comes from Becca Cummings, who lives in West Hartford. This was responding to a Reddit question asking, If each of the 50 states were a person at a bar, what are they doing and what are they drinking?:

Connecticut is a rich white woman sipping a martini and silently judging all the other states. Or a woman of color.

Exactly what are we looking for?

We want to know what you say when an out-of-state friend asks, So, how do you like Connecticut?

Your words dont have to be brilliant or witty or profound. We are looking for tiny observations about this Land of Steady Habits, how it rocks, stinks, bores you or makes you happy.

Like this other observation from a speech that Mike Reiss gave:

This is a weird state. And the proof of that is we have more Simpsons writers from Connecticut than anywhere else.

Its OK to scold those who hate Connecticut. Theres room for you in this party. Take a look at this from-the-heart comment from our columnist Jim Cameron in a piece he wrote a few years ago:

To those who hate living in Connecticut so much, I extend an invitation: Please leave. Enjoy your low-tax destination. And dont forget to pay those highway tolls as you drive down I-95.

Yes, that was more than 25 words, but he would have shortened it if wed asked.

If you just moved in, we want to hear what surprises you about your new home. Whats nice and whats not?

Or if you just left Connecticut, how come?

When you send your witticisms, profundities or just thoughts to opinion@hearstmediact.com, please remember to include your full name, hometown and a phone number in case we have questions. I promise not to share your contact info or use it for marketing purposes.

What would be my tiny ode to our fair state? What would be my bumper sticker?

Connecticut: Because it makes everybody else jealous.

Carolyn Lumsden is opinion editor for Hearst Connecticut Media.

CLARIFICATION: This column was updated Wednesday morning to clarify that a quote by Becca Cummings originally came from Reddit and was responding to the question, If each of the 50 states were a person at a bar, what are they doing and what are they drinking?
ESSEX  Once an abandoned and dilapidated structure, the former Methodist church on Prospect Street recently sold for more than $1 million.

Janet Clarke said her late husband, Frederick Fred G.E. Clarke, purchased the church in 1985 and spent more than a decade renovating and converting the structure into a home that sold last month for $1.05 million.

We had a house on West Avenue in 1980 and (the church) was right at the end of the street, she said. It was a derelict building. It wasnt for sale. It was all boarded up.

Clarke said the church was built in 1849 by parishioners who were also ships carpenters, noting the solid chestnut beams spanning the interior are original. She said the building was used as a church for 100 years, until the Methodist Episcopal Society disbanded and the building was given to the Essex Fire Engine Company and then reverted to town ownership.

Other than a stint as a warehouse in the mid-20th century, Clarke said it was well out of use and in need of a complete renovation when she and her husband looked at the place from their house down the street.

My husband always thought the view from the top would be spectacular, she said. Its the highest privately owned real estate in the town of Essex.

Clarke said her husband grew up in the shoreline area and along the Connecticut River. She said he always loved the area and was excited to be able to purchase the property.

Clarke said her husband felt like he needed to rescue the property, and so the couple bought the church. She noted it was the first time the property was on the market in its history.

It was a dozen years of renovation, she said. The journey required him to buy the house next door...It was a hobby, but it became a passion.

Clarke said Keith Nolin, a local contractor, was integral to the renovation. She said the project was huge and her husband spared no expense.

The marble on the floor comes from Italy, she said. He had custom windows made. He had the facade redone to the original.

The renovation, which created a porch and made the steeple a glassed-in lookout, made the views from the church amazing, Clarke said.

Clarke said her husband died in late 2019, noting he could never part with the property.

He loved it so much and treasured the things that were in there, she said. He rescued it.

Clarke said the building looked like a church on the outside, but was a home on the inside. When her husband died and she decided it was time to sell, Clarke said she wanted to find a buyer who appreciated the legacy of the property.

I think that theyll steward it very well, she said.
Niagara Falls, NY (14301)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. High 81F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 60F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.
The police have announced the arrest of 10 suspects allegedly involved in the failed attack on the Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom. ...

The police have announced the arrest of 10 suspects allegedly involved in the failed attack on the Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom.

The Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Usman Alkali, announced the arrest on Thursday at a special briefing of State House correspondents at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Those who organised and those who pulled the trigger have all been arrested and investigation is ongoing, he said.

He said investigations so far show that the outcome is contrary to the claims made by the governor.

Recall that Gov. Ortom, in March, stated that gunmen suspected to be herders attacked him on his farm near Tyo-mu, along Makurdi-Gboko Highway of Benue State.

The police chief said the suspects are still being detained by the police without prosecution because judiciary staff are on strike.

We have had them for over a month but the courts have been closes for over three months, where do I take them to? he said.
Nelms, who got divorced from Cassidy in 2005, told the AP he threatened to kill his co-workers at the VTA, but I never believed him, and it never happened. Until now. Cassidy started working at the VTA in 2001.
Investigators have not publicly speculated on Cassidys motive for the shooting. Cassidy had worked for the VTA since 2001. His ex-wife told the Associated Press that he routinely complained about work prior to their 2005 divorce.
The day marked a major milestone for Sanai Butler.

The 17-year-old had just graduated with honors from Warren Easton Charter School, and her mother told her she could choose any restaurant she wanted for a big celebration.

Sanai picked Lula Restaurant Distillery on St. Charles Avenue, and a group of 28 relatives and friends, all Black, gathered to honor her and hear some big news: she would be heading to Talladega College in Alabama.

But what was supposed to be a joy-filled meal ended with the restaurant calling the police because a woman  identifying herself as the owners wife  didnt like the bikini top that Sanai was wearing, according to the family.

Officers ultimately didnt arrest anyone. But Sanais mother, La Shawn Butler, said the restaurants decision to involve the New Orleans Police Department was excessive and hurtful. "I feel it was racially motivated," she said.

The group had not been told of a dress code, and there didnt seem to be one posted in the restaurant, Butler said.

She also said the woman, who was White, approached Sanai in a bathroom, but should have approached adults at the table. Sanai and her mother, after viewing pictures online Wednesday, said the woman was Erin Bourgeois, wife of owner Jess Bourgeois. Lula's declined to comment on the Butlers' identification.

This is a child at the end of the day  if you had something to say about her outfit, you couldve approached me as her mother, Butler said.

A year ago, a Minneapolis store clerk called police on George Floyd because he suspected Floyd had given him a counterfeit $20 bill, setting the stage for what would become Floyds tragic killing at the hands of an officer who has since been convicted of murder. That is what made the event so scary, said Butler.

That couldve gone so many different ways, she said.

While the NOPD confirmed that it went to Lulas Tuesday to respond to a disturbance about a females attire, the restaurant issued a statement saying the call was made during a verbal altercation to ensure the safety of all patrons.

The police were called after three disruptive, adult patrons engaged with another table of patrons, and one of the female owners of Lula, the statement said.

The restaurant apologized to the diners who were present, including any person who feels that Lula discriminated against them based on their attire or race.

We are working with our team, including management and ownership, to determine what should have been done differently and to ensure an enjoyable restaurant and dining environment for everyone, the statement said.

After racial profiling incident at Metairie cinema, AMC Theatres fires employees, donates tickets After a group of New Orleans women said they were humiliated during a Metairie showing of the movie Harriet earlier this month, they demande

La Shawn Butler on Wednesday provided a detailed account of the encounter, which she said occurred two hours after the group had arrived for their reservation.

When Sanai entered the restaurant, no one on the staff said anything about her outfit: a bikini top, matching leggings, a customized graduation stole and a mortarboard, Butler recounted. Her daughter put a jacket on inside at one point because she was cold, but she took it off for pictures and had not put it back on when she went to the restroom with her cousins.

According to Butler, it was in the restroom that a woman who said she was the wife of the owner told Sanai that she needed to put on another shirt because the top she was wearing was very inappropriate.

Sanai was visibly upset when she returned to the table and told her mother what happened, Butler said. The group was incensed.

After racial profiling incident at Metairie cinema, AMC Theatres fires employees, donates tickets After a group of New Orleans women said they were humiliated during a Metairie showing of the movie Harriet earlier this month, they demande

At one point, Butler said, the woman came up to the party and argued that she could say whatever she wanted because she was in her own restaurant. She eventually went off to the side, and two NOPD patrol cruisers pulled up. They left without taking action.

Butler said she felt the restaurant wouldve handled the matter differently if her group  which spent $2,000  wasnt entirely made up of Black people.

A newly hired Lula employee who asked to remain anonymous said she was so disgusted she quit Wednesday. She vouched for the Butlers' version of events, saying it seemed the cops were annoyed at the reason they'd been called out to the restaurant.

"It didn't have to get to that point," the employee said.

Sanai declined to be interviewed Wednesday but issued a statement saying her dinner at Lula was a horrible and sad experience.
From his stand inside the Circle Food Market, Johnnys Jamaican Grill co-owner Adam Haughton packs takeout cartons with tawny jerk chicken drizzled with a heady brown sauce.

At the stand next to him, dubbed New Orleans Connection, Charlotte Hayward explains to new customers how the familiar plate lunch staples have a lighter, fresher edge, like the stuffed peppers filled with shrimp and yellow rice or the yakamein made with bone broth instead of bouillon mix.

Back in the kitchen, Catherine Allen is sometimes joined by her 11-year-old son Ian Chaisson as they bake focaccia loaves embedded with herbs and fill custom cake orders for Next to Eat Fresh Bakery.

All around them, the usual doings of grocery shopping and neighborhood life continue at a landmark New Orleans business that could never be described as ordinary. Circle Food Market is a place steeped in history thats now trying to make a comeback after almost disappearing.

One facet of that approach is a new concept called the Wholistic Culinary Market. Its a place for quick plate lunches, grab-and-go dishes, healthy meals and, perhaps, a glimpse of the next wave of New Orleans culinary talent on the way up.

There are people in this city with great ability and potential who have just never gotten the chance to step up. We want this to be that step up, said Gary Netter, the chef leading the Wholistic Culinary Market.

Diverse by design

The Wholistic Culinary Market occupies what was once the Circle Food deli, just past the wine racks and frozen food cases.

With six distinct stands clustered together for different flavors, it in some ways resembles the modern food halls that have come back into vogue in recent years.

Here though, two entwined purposes are built into the framework  better community access to healthier foods and greater inclusion and equity for people underrepresented in the citys culinary sector.

Netter is a chef who cooked at big-name local restaurants like Commanders Palace and Emerils and went on to cut his own path as a culinary entrepreneur with his brand Next to Eat.

The name Next to Eat aligns with his guiding mission. Its not so much about what youll eat next, Netter explained, but who youre bringing to the table.

Its whos up next, whos coming up, where can they go, he said.

In 2018, Mayor LaToya Cantrell named Netter the official culinary ambassador for the city of New Orleans. He interprets the role not just as representing the city to others, but being an ambassador of inclusion within the city, representing new possibilities for New Orleans people.

Whenever I get an opportunity, I want to bring people with me," he said.

Wholistic Culinary Market puts that approach on direct display.

For instance, at the Froot Orleans stand, Mannie King peels fresh mangoes and slices eye-catching dragon fruit for verdant bowls dressed to spec with honey or cashew sauce.

King started the business as a street vendor, making fresh fruit bowls outside churches, barber shops and barrooms late at night.

People would come outside and see me, and its like an oasis of fresh flavor. They werent expecting it, but suddenly they needed it, he said.

Now he has a home base at the market where people can find him whenever they get the craving. He makes signature bowls teeming with berries and melons and tropical fruits, like an artist taking colors from a palette, and he whips up smoothies and juices too.

People want to eat healthy. You just have to make it available, King said.

A market with history

The new multi-vendor hall fits the evolving history of the Circle Food Market, which was long known as the Circle Food Store.

It started out in 1854 as the St. Bernard Market, part of a network of public food markets that once dotted the city (the French Market is the most famous example of that network). Butchers, produce vendors and other merchants had their own stands within it.

By 1938, the market was modernized and consolidated as a single grocery store, dubbed Circle Food Store.

The store, at North Claiborne and St. Bernard avenues, took its name from the circular turnaround point for streetcars just outside its doors. That stretch of Claiborne Avenue between Treme and the Seventh Ward was a hub for Black-owned businesses in those days, though the area was radically changed when Interstate 10 was built above the avenue in the 1960s.

+4 Dooky Chase's uses historic restaurant grant to invest in future, fight street flooding The legacy of Dooky Chase's Restaurant has a place at the intersection of New Orleans food, culture and social history. The restaurant itself,

Over the years, Circle Food Store evolved into a one-stop shop for a wide range of products and services. It stocked school uniforms and also had other amenities, including a pharmacy, a doctor and a dentist for check-ups, and a chiropractor.

Inundated by flooding after levees failed in Hurricane Katrina in 2005  pictures of the building sitting in floodwaters became familiar nationwide  the store finally reopened in 2014. Its return was hailed as an important post-Katrina comeback for the community it had long served.

By 2018, however, Circle Food was closed again, mired in debt and lawsuits between members of the family that had operated it since the 1990s. The following year, the property was bought at foreclosure auction by celebrity businessman Sidney Torres IV and grocer Rick El-Jaouhari, who runs the local Magnolia Discount stores.

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They reopened the historic business under a slightly changed name, Circle Food Market, early in 2020. Then the pandemic hit.

Building back

The Wholistic Culinary Market is one way Circle Food Market is trying to reestablish its role in the neighborhood. Netter partnered with the grocery's owners for the project, building a market within a market.

This is not the same Circle Food, said Netter. We're trying to revitalize it. We're trying to improve it. Everything we're doing here is intentional  how the dishes are made, what we're offering, what we're providing to the community.

For Netter, the opportunity here is helping new food entrepreneurs get to the next level.

It's about propelling each other, he said.

To start Next to Eat Fresh Bakery, Allen partnered with Netter after working as a baker for years, with tenures at Laurel Street Bakery and Red Fish Grill on Bourbon Street.

I know how to bake, I can do the work, what were getting here is help with the business end, she said. Were learning from Gary and from each other, all of us here. Hes providing such an amazing opportunity.

Eventually Netter wants to bring vendors outside to enliven the covered, arched colonnade that fronts the market. This used to be a common scene here, and he thinks it would help draw more people back to the store.

For now, the Wholistic Culinary Market is building its base inside the grocery with a diverse range of flavors and concepts under one umbrella.

Next to Eat Specialty Gourmet Pizza serves its namesake dish, along with gluten free pizza.

At the Next to Eat Superbowls stand, the menu starts with noodle and rice bowls and brings a build-your-own style array of toppings selected for high nutritional value and purported superfood health benefits.

At the Bissap Breeze stand theres a line of bottled juices, fresh juices and also healthy huckabucks, the frozen cups made here with blackberries or hibiscus juice and ginger.

Haughton, a native of Jamaica, runs the food truck Johnnys Jamaican Grill with his brother Johnny. The market gives them a second location, one thats not as weather dependent. He serves staples like brown stew chicken and curry chicken, and on weekends often cooks up curried goat as a special.

The New Orleans Connection has the most familiar local fare, though with healthier recipes. This concept, which is a partnership between Netter and longtime local chef Otis Wafer, also serves as the catering arm of Wholistic Culinary Market.

Here, red beans are vegan or made with beef sausage; there's seafood gumbo and vegetarian gumbo; you can get wings with fried rice, or roasted cauliflower "wings" with cauliflower fried rice.

Hayward was working the stand on recent day, finishing plates of lasagna with fresh green beans and candied yams. She loves converting people to dishes they didnt initially think theyd like.

I tell people just try it the way I do it, and then they come back for it again, Hayward said. I take a lot of pride in that.

Wholistic Culinary Market

at Circle Food Market

1522 St. Bernard Ave., 504-399-8007

Daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (initial hours)

The Wholistic Culinary Market is inside Circle Food Market. Heres what youll find:

New Orleans Connection  plate lunches, gumbo, yakamein and other local dishes with a lighter twist

Johnnys Jamaican Grill  traditional Jamaican dishes like jerk chicken, jerk fish and brown stew

Froot Orleans  fresh fruit bowls, smoothies and juice

Bissap Breeze  hibiscus teas and fresh juice huckabucks

Next to Eat Superbowls  build-your-own noodle and rice bowls with super food toppings, soups and salads

Next to Eat Fresh Bakery  fresh breads, pastries and cakes, including custom orders and

Next to Eat Gourmet Specialty Pizza  pizzas (regular and gluten-free crusts), chicken wings

+3 Ian McNulty: As New Orleans revives, dont pretend restaurants and bars are back to normal When youre fully vaccinated, when you know the people you spend time with are fully vaccinated, things can start to feel kind of, sort of, al
If you like the pandemic trend of sit-down, limited-capacity shows, enjoy it while you can, because a return to standing-room-only shows may not be far off. Meanwhile, here are highlights of the live music options in New Orleans from May 27 to June 2, 2021.

THURSDAY

Saxophonist Brad Walker is a North Carolina native who earned a classical saxophone undergraduate degree and a jazz masters degree from LSU. He has spent the past decade in New Orleans backing a range of artists and releasing his own music; he also logged 18 months leading Americana star Sturgill Simpsons horn section. Extended is a five-year-old New Orleans-based avant-jazz trio consisting of pianist Oscar Rossignoli, bassist Matt Booth and drummer Brad Webb. In January, Walker and Extended recorded a collaborative, documentary-style concert film at Esplanade Studio, showcasing music written throughout the months of isolation during the pandemic. Outside at the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint on Thursday, Walker and Extended will perform a short set, then premiere the documentary film. The event starts at 7 p.m.; tickets are $15.

Drummer Stanton Moore is joined by keyboardist David Torkanowsky, bassist James Singleton and special guest Jason Marsalis on vibraphone at Tipitinas.

The outdoor Broadside on North Broad Street presents a rescheduled edition of harmonica player Johnny Sansones Blue Monday series with special guests Johnny Rawls and the Roadmaster Horns.

Chubby Carrier & the Bayou Swamp Band propel the dancers at Rock n Bowl for Zydeco Night.

FRIDAY

Alfred Banks, a prominent presence on New Orleans underground hip-hop scene for more than a decade, celebrates the release of his new album, One Guy Standing By Himself, with a show at Gasa Gasa.

Lettuce trumpeter Eric Benny Bloom, a New Orleans resident since 2014, leads Benny & the Late Bloomers for shows at 7 and 9:30 p.m. at Tipitinas; tickets start at $20.

Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers hit the Zony Mash Beer Project on Thalia Street. Tickets are $20.

The Rebirth Brass Band is back at the Howlin Wolf for two shows.

Rock n Bowl has the cover band Rewind.

Classic rock cover band Supercharger pulls into Southport Hall.

SATURDAY

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation, the nonprofit that owns Jazz Fest, kicks off a six-week concert series, Chanteuse: Celebrating New Orleans Women in Music, at the George & Joyce Wein Jazz and Heritage Center on North Rampart St. This weeks featured act is Meschiya Lake & the Little Big Horns. Admission is free, but attendees are asked to RSVP via a link at jazzandheritage.org. Performances start at 7 p.m. and will be held in an outdoor area at the Jazz and Heritage Center. Check the website for current COVID protocols.

The New Orleans Guitar Masters  Jimmy Robinson, Cranston Clements and John Rankin  gather for a matinee, 4 p.m. performance at the Broadside.

Formed in 1977, the Dirty Dozen Brass Band would blossom into the most influential brass band of the past 50 years. If Duke Ellington were distilled as a brass band, the result might sound like the Dirty Dozen, given the bands sophisticated arrangements and precise musicianship. The Dirty Dozen begat many of the younger brass bands that followed but are still going strong themselves. The Dozen will spend most of the fall on an arena tour with the Doobie Brothers, opening the shows and also joining the Doobies onstage. On Saturday, the Dozen will play under the stars at the Broadside, starting at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20.

Powerhouse R&B and more vocalist Erica Falls, who was Galactics featured vocalist before leaving to focus on her own project, fronts her band for two shows at Tipitinas, at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.; tickets start at $20.

The Howlin Wolf hosts The Slide Summit, with guitarist Marc Stones band backing featured guests John Mooney, Alvin Youngblood Hart, Papa Mali, Jimmy Robinson, Brint Anderson and Bruce Sunpie Barnes. Show time is 8 p.m.; tickets are $30.

Long-running cover/party band the Topcats is at Rock n Bowl.

SUNDAY

The Stanton Moore Organ Trio, featuring Moore on drums, Joe Ashlar on organ and Danny Abel on guitar, fires up for a Scatterjazz Brunch show at 1 p.m. at the Broadside. Tickets are $25.

Little Freddie King plugs in a d.b.a. at Palace Market, the new outdoor venue across Frenchmen Street from the original d.b.a., for a 7 p.m., seated show. Tickets are available online.

MONDAY

The finale of harmonica player Johnny Sansones Blue Monday series at the Broadside boasts Jason Ricci, Bruce Sunpie Barnes, Ghalia Volt and Tiffany Pollack.
In Louisiana, 34,969 more doses of COVID vaccines have been administered, according to a noon update from the Louisiana Department of Health.

There are 1,447,591 people who are fully vaccinated and 1,632,376 people who have received at least one dose of a vaccine.

The total number of administered doses is now 2,973,879. Most of those shots are part of the two-dose regimen recommended for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, which is why the total number of people who have received at least one dose is lower than the total number of doses.

+2 Why Louisiana COVID vaccine efforts have slowed, even as the U.S. reaches a milestone The U.S. hit a milestone in its vaccination push Tuesday with over 50% of adults now fully vaccinated, according to the White House. But as th

Out of Louisiana's entire estimated population, 35.11% of people have received at least one dose and 31.14% of people are fully vaccinated.

These are another few key statewide statistics as of Monday:

Total confirmed cases: 397,885

Total "probable" cases: 72,446

Total confirmed deaths: 9,592

Hospitalized: 273

On ventilators: 27

Vaccine series initiated: 1,632,376 (updated twice weekly)

Vaccine series completed: 1,447,591

Vaccine news in your inbox Once a week we'll update you on the progress of COVID-19 vaccinations. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up

Note: The Advocate and The Times-Picayune staff calculates daily case count and confirmed death increases based on the difference between today's total and yesterday's total of confirmed coronavirus cases and deaths. The Louisiana Department of Health releases a daily case count on its dashboard that includes probable cases as indicated by a positive antigen test. That case count can be different than the one listed here.

Can't see chart below? Click here.

Can't see chart below? Click here.

Louisiana began reopening for Phase 1 on May 15-16 then moved to Phase 2 on June 5. Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards extended Louisiana's Phase 2 restrictions twice in August before moving the state to Phase 3 on Sept. 11. The governor then moved the state back to a modified Phase 2 near the end of November before putting Louisiana back in a modified Phase 3 on March 2, 2021.

This is a developing story. More details and analysis to come.
Second line parades and 24/7 alcohol sales are coming back to New Orleans this weekend under eased COVID-19 rules.

The city of New Orleans announced the loosened restrictions on Wednesday evening.

The latest guidance also impacts capacity limits at gyms and some indoor and outdoor events.

+3 No more 1 a.m. last call as New Orleans relaxes more COVID rules; see changes Last call will once again be a thing of the past in New Orleans starting Friday under the latest loosening of coronavirus restrictions announc

City officials attributed the loosened rules to increasing vaccination rates and low cases and hospitalizations.

The new rules take effect at 6 a.m. on Friday.

Vaccine news in your inbox Once a week we'll update you on the progress of COVID-19 vaccinations. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up

The City of New Orleans today issued revisions to the restrictions and guidelines in place to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, as vaccine rates continue to increase and case incidences and hospitalizations remain low. Eased guidelines will take effect at 6 a.m. Friday, May 28. https://t.co/vHhIF0FtJX  Mayor LaToya Cantrell (@mayorcantrell) May 26, 2021

Here's a full rundown of the new regulations:

Large indoor events can have... 50% capacity without masks or social distancing, or 100% capacity with masks required, or 100% capacity without masks if everyone provides proof of vaccinations or a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours



Large outdoor events can have... 75% capacity without masks or social distancing, or 100% capacity with masks required, or 100% capacity without masks if everyone provides proof of vaccinations or a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours

The ban on second lines and parades will be removed. The standard event permitting process through the Department of Safety and Permits will continue.

Gyms can have 100% capacity

Alcohol sales will no longer have a time limit

Restaurants and bars can eliminate restrictions of the number of tables and can remove 6-foot table spacing.

Read the full list of restrictions in place by clicking here
Last call will once again be a thing of the past in New Orleans starting Friday under the latest loosening of coronavirus restrictions announced by Mayor LaToya Cantrell's administration.

City Hall on Wednesday said that New Orleans' ban on selling alcohol after 1 a.m. would end this weekend along with a host of other coronavirus restrictions, including the ban on second lines and most capacity restrictions on events.

Restaurants will also be able to put their tables back in their pre-pandemic places, ending the socially-distanced dining that limited the number of patrons and made it hard for many smaller restaurants to make money.

New Orleans has been on a steady march towards normalcy in recent months. Falling coronavirus cases and rising vaccinations have led Cantrell and her public-health advisors to first ease gathering limits, then end mask mandates and bans on dancing.

But the latest changes, particularly the return of second lines and the end to last call in a city known for some bars that famously never close, seemed a key milestone.

I hate to use the word normal, because we know nothing is really normal now, said Kathy Anderson, proprietor of the Parkview Tavern in Mid-City. But whatever this is feels a whole lot better than what it was.

The new rules will go into effect on Friday at 6 a.m.

Bar owners and others in the hospitality industry have been clamoring for the end of the ban on early morning alcohol sales  which applied to restaurants and retailers as well as bars  with many arguing they bore little connection to the spread of the coronavirus. The continuation of those restrictions even after others have eased also raised concerns that last call would become a permanent fixture in the post-pandemic world.

As other pieces of the city's hospitality economy have come back, and restaurants have grown evermore busy, the last call mandate was having a greater effect on bars that cater to other service industry workers.

Benji Lee, who runs the Saint, a late-night dive off Magazine Street, said the end of last call would have an immediate impact on his business and the livelihoods of his staff.

He said the Saint would typically do 75% of its business after 1 a.m. in the days before the coronavirus restrictions.

Vaccine news in your inbox Once a week we'll update you on the progress of COVID-19 vaccinations. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up

The closing time was brutal, because youd only start to get busy at 12:15 a.m. and then youd have to turn on the lights 45 minutes later and send people home , he said. It was soul crushing for the bartenders who were waiting all night for that business to have to shut it down.

Bars had been among the businesses most impacted by the city's rules, which have been more stringent than those throughout the rest of Louisiana for most of the pandemic.

Recent weeks have seen restrictions loosened at relatively rapid pace, however. Cantrell and other city officials have said the end to face coverings and other rules were a reward for a community that worked together to slow the spread of COVID-19. And with vaccines widely available, health department director Dr. Jennifer Avegno has said that it's now up to unvaccinated people to either get the shot or leave themselves at risk.

Roughly 46.5% of New Orleans' population has received at least their first dose of the vaccine, a number that trails the national rate but puts it as the second most-vaccinated parish in Louisiana. And the city recorded fewer than 18 new cases per day over the past week, among the lowest increase since the start of the pandemic.

The new rules will also bring back second lines, though they will still need to get permits from the city. Those permits were required before the pandemic.

In general, gatherings will still be capped at 250 people indoors or 500 outdoors. But if masks are required or all individuals are required to provide proof of vaccination or a negative coronavirus test from the prior 72 hours, organizers will be allowed to return to 100% of their venue's capacity limit.

If those requirements are not met, indoor events will be capped at 50% of a venue's occupancy and outdoor events can only go up to 75% of a venue's occupancy.

Nearly all COVID rules have been loosened in Louisiana; see what John Bel Edwards relaxed Gov. John Bel Edwards announced Tuesday he's ditching nearly every remaining coronavirus restriction in Louisiana and lifting a statewide mand

The end of social distancing measures between tables means more flexibility for seating and capacity at restaurants and bars.

The six-foot requirement set the true limit of how many tables could be seated at once, said chef John Harris, owner of the Uptown bistro Lilette and its more casual offshoot Bouligny Tavern.

No ones tables were six feet apart pre-pandemic, so you can do the math, Harris said. This means theres one less thing to manage, dont have to worry about placement as much.
It wasnt immediately clear why Cassidy was detained, but he was found to have a book with notes on how he hated the Valley Transportation Authority, the official told the AP, citing a Department of Homeland Security memo.
LCMC Health plans to close its mass vaccination site at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center later this week, ending nearly three months of vaccine administration at the site as demand for the shots wanes.

The last day of operations will be Saturday, May 29. As of earlier this month, the site was only offering second doses of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, according to LCMC.

Fewer and fewer Louisiana residents have been seeking out vaccinations in recent weeks, which means that operating a facility capable of administering hundreds of shots a day has become unnecessary.

Over the past week, the state has initiated 40,106 vaccine series, down from a peak of 138,283 weekly doses in mid-March.

Vaccine news in your inbox Once a week we'll update you on the progress of COVID-19 vaccinations. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up

On Wednesday, Convention Center head of operations Adam Straight said that the site had provided around 51,000 doses since it opened in early March.

He said that the closure of the vaccination site would end 449 days of the Convention Center's COVID response, stretching back to early in the pandemic when the massive building was filled with temporary rooms for coronavirus patients amid fears that area hospitals would be overrun.

In recent weeks, hospitals and public-health officials have been switching their tactics when it comes to getting doses in arms.

Instead of hosting large sites and expecting people will come, they've staged smaller events at bars and other spots with incentives for people who are hesitant about the shot or just in need of more prodding to finally get it.
A male was shot and killed Wednesday evening at a Bridge City apartment complex, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office said.

Deputies said the victim was pronounced dead in the 1400 block of Utah Beach Drive, the location of Audubon Village Apartments. They were sent there after two callers reported gunfire in the parking lot at 5:20 p.m.

The Sheriff's Office did not immediately release more details. Anyone with information on the killing was asked to call the homicide division at (504) 364-5500.
Walter F. Huebner, age 93, renowned astrophysicist and lifelong traveler, passed away peacefully at his home in Norman, Oklahoma, on June 1, 2021, surrounded by family. No services at this time. View full obituary and share condolences online at www.havenbrookfuneralhome.com.
Williamsport, Pa. - The nations longest-running major sporting event  the Kentucky Derby  ran for the 147th time on May 1, and 24 Pennsylvania College of Technology students were on hand in the kitchens of historic Churchill Downs to lend their culinary skills.

While Penn College hospitality students work at the Kentucky Derby has been a tradition for more than 25 years, the students were unable to attend the 146th running of the Derby in 2020, when, due to the pandemic, it ran without guests in the stands in September instead of its traditional time slot on the first Saturday in May.

The students were grateful to return in 2021.

Going to the Kentucky Derby has been one of the best experiences Ive ever been a part of, and I look forward to going again someday, said Sarah Wolf, a baking and pastry arts student from White Haven.

It was obviously an exceptional year, and no surprise, the students did exceptionally well, said Chef Charles R. Niedermyer, Penn College instructor of baking and pastry arts/culinary arts, who accompanied the group.

I feel like they really rose to the challenge. They did it without complaining; they really embraced the opportunity. We havent been able to travel or have visiting chefs, so to be able to go and have this experience in our field, they were really ecstatic to be there, and there was no room, no energy for anything else. That made my job super easy.

Although attendance at the iconic event  a bucket-list experience for many  was limited to about half of a typical year, students were just as busy, due to a smaller food and beverage staff and extra steps in preparing the food.

The extra steps  like individually packaging desserts and salads that in a typical year might be placed on a platter for a buffet  were among many devised by Levy Restaurants to make the event as safe as possible for guests and employees. Levy Restaurants interviews Penn College students for weeklong paid Derby Week internships and handles food service at Churchill Downs.

Despite a smaller guest list, with a full racing schedule the hours were just as long, and any extra time was devoted to making the food even more special for spectators.

The food was as good as anything you would find anywhere else, even though we were serving thousands and thousands of guests, Niedermyer said. It was awesome for the students to experience that.

Shannon A. Getz, of Millersburg, was stationed in the facilitys Main Kitchen, where prep work is done for many of the other kitchens.

It was a lot of teamwork, said Getz, who is pursuing degrees in culinary arts technology and applied management.

I am very proud of the group in all, she added. Everyone came together and did what was needed of them to help pull it together, to help the chefs in charge of the kitchens.

Staff in the Main Kitchen were also moved to other kitchens as needed, which provided her additional opportunities, including joining another student to run a cart with an anti-griddle in the Jockey Club Suites. Like a traditional griddle, an anti-griddle has a flat plate, but instead of heating food, it flash freezes it. On Oaks Day, the duo made macaron ice cream sandwiches, and they prepared Derby Pie a la mode on Derby Day.

I really liked being able to jump in different places and help where needed, Getz said. I enjoyed that I got to see the flow of production from being in the Main Kitchen to another kitchen, and seeing where all the work we did in the Main Kitchen went.

Wolf worked in the Turf Club, a members-only private dining room that overlooks the racetrack and prepares most of its own fresh menu each day. Since the students were unable to participate in 2020, she was among the majority of the group in attending the Kentucky Derby for the first time this year.

Going to Derby, I was very nervous about what type of work I would be doing, where I would be, and who I would be working with, she said. As everything started to fall into place when we got to Churchill Downs, my trepidation began to fade away.

Usually, close to half the team is returnees who have that leadership and experience walking in the door, Niedermyer explained. That was definitely a dynamic and all the more impressive considering how few had been there prior.

I think one of the hardest challenges for me was keeping up with the high level of production and multitasking, Wolf said, but she found her stride. I am proud of being assigned to run part of my own station for dinner dessert service for a couple of days.

Six members of the student contingent were selected to work in the brand new, state-of-the-art kitchen for the sixth-floor Matt Winns Steakhouse.

The group also had opportunities to interact with chefs from around the nation who pitched in for the event, two of them Penn College alumni: Magdalen C. Bennett, a 2018 culinary arts and systems grad, served as a support chef in Aristides Lounge, and Rebecca L. Rizzo, a 2015 baking and pastry arts and 2018 applied management alumna, managed a dining room.

When we would get some time, mostly during prep, you could ask the chefs questions, and everyone there is so kind and willing to help you learn and grow so that you can get as much as you can from this experience, Getz said.

Even those who didnt attend are benefiting, as Niedermyer brings the experience back to the classroom. He already had conversations with students in his facilities planning course about this years innovations.

Getz is grateful that she experienced it firsthand.

I am very thankful the school was able to make plans so that we could go on this trip, she said. Even with it being one of the hardest weeks of my life, from being exhausted to being so sore all I could do was fall asleep, I would do this over and over again because it was also the best time I've had.

Students completing Kentucky Derby internships, listed by major:

Applied management

Kayla M. Wilson, of Williamsport.

Applied management and baking and pastry arts

Corrina C. Blose, of Coplay; Gloria F. Boronow, of Denver; Dane S. Druckenmiller, of Hellertown; Abby E. George, of Harrisburg; Rebecca E. High, of Willow Street; Patrick E. Hufnagle, of Antes Fort; Alana L. Lapenta, of Camp Hill; Danielle R. Wesneski, of Williamsport; and Alexis N. Youse, of Pottstown.

Applied management and culinary arts technology

Madison Y. Cooper, of Harrisburg; Shannon A. Getz, of Millersburg; CC N. Hawkins, of Williamsport; Tiana M. Rawls-White, of Northumberland; and Aaron Timmons, of Greencastle.

Baking and pastry arts

Josephina R. Hanzel, of Wellsville; and Sarah Wolf, of White Haven.

Culinary arts and systems

Noah E. Siegle, of Milesburg.

Culinary arts technology

Bryan Aguilar, of Reading; Alexis J. Muthler-Harris, of Williamsport; Kyle A. Palmer, of Linden; and Brad K. Sinsabaugh, of Picture Rocks.

Individual studies

AJ Wiles, of Glenville.

Professional baking

Mercedes M. LeBlanc, of Williamsport.
Harrisburg, Pa. - Lt. Gov. John Fetterman praised a decision made by Gov. Tom Wolf for signing a pardon to formally forgive a former Delaware County ophthalmologist who grew marijuana plants as medical treatment for his dying wife.

Heres a doctor of 30 years who had not so much as a speeding ticket, and then his whole life is ruined for giving his wife medicine thats now legal in Pennsylvania, Fetterman said.

This is a prime example of the destructive power of reefer madness," he continued.

Paul Ezell, 65, was turned in to police because some plant clippings were discovered while he was trashing the grow operation, after his wife died. He said he was using the plant to reduce his wifes use of her prescribed opioids.

In 2014 he was sent to jail and served six months before being released for good behavior. He pleaded guilty to a felony, which means he cant practice medicine. The pardon is the first step to getting his record cleared, allowing him to return to his profession as an eye doctor.

He lost his wife, his career, everything, Fetterman, who is a candidate for the 2022 US Senate election to replace outgoing US Sen. Pat Toomey, said.

Today, Dr. Ezell can start to rebuild his life. Cases like his illustrate why we must end marijuana prohibition before it destroys one more life."

Fetterman chairs the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons and developed an expedited process to clear marijuana charges until full recreational legalization passes in Pennsylvania. The Board of Pardons in its March meeting voted to send Ezells case to the governor, who solely carries the power to pardon.

Ezells case was among others the governor signed Wednesday. The case of Ezells daughter, a nurse who also lost her license because of the charges, will be heard before the Board of Pardons in June.
Harrisburg, Pa. - State Rep. Frank Burns introduced a package of bills to expand Liquor Control Board membership; reduce the governor's influence on LCB appointments; and decrease LCB members' pay by 40 percent.

The House Democratic Committee described the package as the "first salvo" of reform proposals, suggesting that more will follow.

Rep. Burns' bills would expand LCB membership from three to five, with the governor, House Democrats, House Republicans, Senate Democrats, and Senate Republicans receiving one appointment each. Currently, the governor appoints all three board members.

The 40 percent pay cut is based on splitting the current budget between five board members; normal members' salaries would drop from $78,751 to $47,500 and the chairman's salary would drop from $81,890 to $49,500.

I believe lawmakers of both parties, in both chambers, should have a voice in who oversees alcohol sales and licensing in Pennsylvania, Rep. Burns said. An agency of this magnitude would benefit from a broader spectrum of board members providing oversight and guidance.

Burns continued: The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board is a vast, powerful agency tasked with operating hundreds of retail wine and spirits stores, licensing thousands of venues, and conducting alcohol education and training. Given its immense reach and say-so, I believe its decision-makers should come from different paths than a three-person board nominated by the governor and confirmed by the state Senate.

Burns bills - HB 1149 and HB 1150 - would work by amending the states Liquor Code and its Public Official Compensation Law.
Tillamook, OR (97141)

Today

Cloudy with rain developing this afternoon. High 69F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Periods of rain. Low 58F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a half an inch.
Railways in the Yangtze River Delta region are predicted to handle over 12.8 million passenger trips during the upcoming Dragon Boat Festival, more than that in the same period in 2019, according to China Railway Shanghai Group.

The travel rush will last from June 11 to 15. The passenger flow is expected to peak on June 12, the first day of the three-day holiday, with about 3 million trips.

122 extra trains will operate in the region during the period to cope with the surging demand, the group said.

Both the passenger flow and the number of additional trains are expected to hit a record high.

13 additional trains will run from the region to destinations including Beijing, Wuhan, Nanchang, Hankou, Pingxiang and Ganzhou. Meanwhile, 109 extra trains will operate within the region.




Police said Hutchinson traveled from Tampa to the childs home in the Panhandle, picked her up, took her to his Tampa apartment and then traveled with her to several cities within Florida, including Orlando. The suspect is accused of molesting her multiple times during the trip.
Local

Rome committee backs traffic shift plan for Fifth Avenue Bridge

Contributed Vehicles heading toward downtown (left) on the Fifth Avenue Bridge would get a designated right turn lane into the county courthouse parking lot under the proposed traffic redesign backed by the Rome Redevelopment Committee. Doug Walker Rome City Commissioner Wendy Davis (from left), City Manager Sammy Rich, Commissioner Randy Quick and Commissioner Jamie Doss review a drawing of proposed traffic flow changes for the Fifth Avenue Bridge on Wednesday.

Plans for traffic flow changes on the Fifth Avenue Bridge to facilitate a streetscape project in the citys River District were approved Wednesday by the Rome Redevelopment Committee.

Floyd County owns the bridge and the drawings will be presented at a Joint Services Committee meeting on Tuesday. Members of that committee are the city and county managers, the mayor and county commission chair and the vice chairs of each board.

The design for traffic on the bridge was developed by City Commissioner Mark Cochran, who is an architect by trade.

The Cochran plan reduces thru traffic to two lanes with a planted median. It does allow for a designated right turn lane into the courthouse parking lot for traffic coming toward Broad Street.

Cochrans plan does not include parking on the bridge, which had been proposed by GMC consultants who provided the city a starting point for the streetscape design along North Fifth Avenue and West Third Street.

Some community leaders have suggested the Fifth Avenue corridor will see a lot more traffic when either of those projects start.

However, City Commissioner Wendy Davis  who chairs the Redevelopment Committee  explained that the streetscape design for Fifth Avenue north of the bridge only envisions two lanes of traffic, regardless of how many lanes are on the bridge.

Davis has been seeking ways to get construction of the River District streetscape project started sooner rather than later.

She said she does not want to wait until after the Georgia Department of Transportation completes two major projects in the area because construction has not yet been scheduled. GDOT is working on the widening of Second Avenue and the Turner McCall Bridge over the Etowah River.

Also on Wednesday, City Manager Sammy Rich told the committee he has had no contact with Jigar Patel since last month. Patel has requested a Tax Allocation District financial package for his proposed fast food/convenience store/adult beverage shop on Braves Boulevard.

The committee deferred action until Floyd County commissioners have had a chance to look at that project since the county is also being asked to participate in the TAD as well.
Rome, GA (30161)

Today

Partly cloudy with a slight chance of thunderstorms. High near 90F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 68F. Winds light and variable.
Some people have said that a large company taking an idea from a rejected application is unlikely, but those folks who are current in design roles immediately came to my side to show me support, Monge said. People in the industry know how real my situation is and how often it happens to people who are too afraid to speak up ...M y story isnt the first of its kind in the industry, and it wont be the last.
When I was a small child, as far back as I can remember, he would take me by the hand and we would go out in nature, Carle said in a 1994 interview. And he would show me worms and bugs and bees and ants and explain their lives to me. It was a very loving relationship.
I didnt need to see the PBAs endorsement of Donald Trump to know that It was not an organization that Id want to be associated with, Wiley said. So why did it take Eric Adams so long to get it right? Id never be proud to take their endorsement and as mayor, Ill stand up to their fear-mongering tactics.
A new report concerning the successor to the Nintendo Switch has offered up some details in regard to potential release schedule and pricing. The upgraded console, which has been called the Switch Pro and Super Switch in the press, might be coming sooner than expected but unlikely at the same US$299 introductory price of the current model.

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An article from Bloomberg has shared some information about the new Nintendo Switch that many believe will be delighting fans at some point in 2021. The report agrees that an upgraded console should make an appearance this year, arguably earlier than many thought. Its possible the next-gen Switch could be announced before E3 (June 12-15) with parts being shipped for assembly in July. Bloomberg opines that this could lead to a release for the upgraded Nintendo Switch at some point in September, when it would be sold alongside the Nintendo Switch Lite.

There is speculation about price too for the next-gen Nintendo Switch, with the writers of the report reckoning it will be higher than the US$299 that was initially asked for the 2017 Switch console. Back in January, an alleged leak claimed the Switch successor, which was listed as the Nintendo Switch Pro, would cost US$399 at release time. Splitting the difference to US$349 could be more reasonable for Nintendo fans used to shelling out less than their PlayStation and Xbox-loving counterparts, but it would also depend on what tech improvements the 2021 Nintendo Switch brought with it.

Once again, an OLED screen is mentioned for the upcoming Switch, as is more-powerful Nvidia silicon. There is a rumor that the next-gen console could be powered with a GPU utilizing Nvidias Lovelace architecture, and DLSS technology has frequently been mentioned in news about the Switch Pro, Super Switch, Nintendo Aula, and the other names the next console has seemingly acquired. A 2021 release for the new Switch will certainly excite Nintendo fans, as long as the Japanese company can handle the supply issues that have plagued Sony and Microsoft since their next-gen console releases.

Buy the Nintendo Switch on Amazon
Gesick Embeds With Defense Innovation Unit To Expand NRELs Support To Department of Defense

Interagency Personnel Act Supports Leveraging of NREL Expertise by Partners

May 27, 2021

NREL collaborates with the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) in developing systems-level energy strategies and leading-edge technologies necessary to accomplish operational and installation energy objectives. Photo courtesy of DOD

Among the national laboratories, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) leads the way in commercial partnerships and commercialization of technologies. Integral to NRELs success is its understanding of partner needs, and embedding personnel in the day-to-day of partner organizations has proven increasingly useful to that end.

Josh Gesick, NREL researcher of more than 10 years, has involved himself in the business side of renewable energy development and integration his entire career. Since March 2021, he has been adjusting to new surroundings at the Department of Defenses (DODs) Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) Advanced Energy and Materials (AE&M) team. He is on loan to DIU through the Interagency Personnel Act (IPA) program through at least spring of 2022.

With DIUAE&M, Gesick works to understand the energy problems the Department of Defense is trying to solve, then explores commercial ventures, works with venture capitalists, digs deep into startup technologies, and recommends a path forward to connect DOD with these commercial organizations. In short, he supports his DIUAE&M team in accelerating DODs adoption of commercial technologies.

Its a brand-new portfolio. Were in the process of identifying problems and trying to pair them with commercial solutions, Gesick said. Were strategically located in some of these innovation ecosystems. We try to help those companies, that otherwise might not consider it, work with DOD.

Gesick applies years of expertise in this area to DODs mission, and in return, when his loan term is complete, he will bring back what he has learnedwhat is not excluded through the nondisclosure agreement or conflict of interest restrictionswhile at DIU to NREL. For all intents and purposes, he is a DIU employee until he returns to NREL. That provides him with a bit more control while supporting DIU, but the restrictions are a bit stronger than other arrangements. Previously, Gesick had been embedded through a different type of agreement with the Armys Office of Energy Initiatives, which does similar work specific to the Army, but Gesick described that work and work done by other NREL employees in similar situations as reach-back work to help leverage NRELs unique and powerful capabilities for DOD applications.

DIU is self-described as a fast-moving Department of Defense organization that contracts with commercial companies to solve national security problems. DIUs offices are strategically located in known innovation hubs: Silicon Valley, Boston, Austin, and Washington, D.C. It is the only DOD organization focused exclusively on fielding and scaling commercial technology across the U.S. military at commercial speeds. DIUs website says it aims to move from problem identification to prototype contract award in 6090 days, whereas the traditional DOD contracting process often takes more than 18 months. Prototype projects typically run 1224 months and are administered according to Other Transaction (OT) authority. DIUs current areas of focus are Advanced Energy and Materials, Artificial Intelligence, Autonomy, Cyber, Human Systems, and Space.

While NREL will not be Gesicks priority while at DIU, NREL, as a leader in renewable energy innovation and applications, still plays an important role in satisfying DIUs energy initiatives.

NREL has done a great job of establishing a formal relationship with DIU and has a formal contract with them, Gesick said. NREL has helped with advanced battery technologies. NREL has also done a lot of work screening for applications of renewable and clean technologies. Were at this tipping point. Theres the incentive and these new administration goals to transform the future of materials, and NREL has that background and will be an important piece of that going forward.

For decades, NREL has lived on the cutting edge of renewable energy innovation. The capabilities established over the 40-year-plus history of NREL are providing critical support to DOD.

The Department of Energy has invested billions of dollars into R&D at NREL, including world-class facilities and staff to help DOD solve serious energy challenges to support its evolving global mission, said Jerry Davis, NRELs lead for DOD partnership development. NRELs ability to provide access to its facilities and staff (literally as part of their team, in Joshs case), is evidence of increasing collaboration within the federal R&D complex.

Gesicks IPA term with DIU can last as many as five years and is currently in place for just one, but he said a one-year extension is already being arranged. While an IPA agreement is a powerful tool, it takes a bit more effort to put in place. Gesick confirmed his was a multiple-month process to get cleared for the assignment. After the evaluation, a long list of approvals needed to take place on both sides. He said they started discussing his agreement back in October/November of 2020.

Gesicks background is in chemical engineering. Prior to coming to NREL, he worked in several startup and R&D organizations. He said he built the first public hydrogen fueling station in India and that propelled him to a position at NREL in the hydrogen space.

I had a strong interest on the business side of technology development, he said. You need both the business side and the technology side. Technologies alone arent going to get from good idea to a commercial solution without the business piece.

Though Gesicks bachelors degree from Colorado State University is in chemical engineering, he has ramped up his focus on the business side of technology commercialization and is pursuing his MBA from the University of Denver. He should complete his advanced degree at the end of 2021.

Its really that business piece that takes that technology to a business solution, he said. Ive had a lack of understanding of that business world, but it seems extremely important, so I wanted to formalize that learning and training.

After arriving at NREL, Gesick went to work in the Program Integration Office in the hydrogen program. His next move was to the Bioenergy Technology Office (BETO), helping with validation and metrics and the establishment of key performance indicators on BETO solicitation submissions. He then went to work with the Office of Energy Initiatives (OEI) for the last three years and, not long after returning from OEI, he began looking at the transition to DIU.

Gesick said he appreciates the flexibility NREL has afforded him through the years. Even on detail with DIU, he has been able to remain physically in Golden, Colorado. Upon completion of his detail with DIU, he said, he would like to find a place at NREL that makes sense for him, where he can open up doors and explore new ventures for NREL. He works a fair bit with venture capitalists and said he finds that work exciting.

Learn more about how NREL partners with the Department of Defense.
Roseburg, OR (97470)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun early, then becoming cloudy later in the day. High 82F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph..

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Cloudy with a few showers. Low 62F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
The goal is to make this summer a summer that well actually enjoy, and not a summer where ... were plagued with these headlines that are just growing more and more commonplace about something terrible happening in the city of New York, he said at a Thursday press conference in the Bronx.
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Alle transfers en geruchten

Hoewel de zomerse transfermarkt nog niet geopend is, wemelt het al van de geruchten en nieuwtjes over contractverlengingen. In dit transferblog houden we je van alles op de hoogte.
A stacker reclaimer, a massive bulk material handling machine that piles raw materials like iron ore and limestone into huge stockpiles, collapsed May 17. The incident took place at the #4 Blast Furnace at the former LTV Steel Mill on the west side of the sprawling Indiana Harbor steelmaking complex.

"The IH4 blast furnace stacker reclaimer collapsed while employees were conducting a maintenance activity. Two employees who were working on the equipment sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were treated at a local hospital and released," Cleveland-Cliffs spokesperson Patricia Persico said. "An investigation has been initiated by Cleveland-Cliffs and it includes representatives from the United Steelworkers. No additional details are available at this time."

United Steelworkers District 7 Director Mike Millsap posted on social media that it was fortunate no one was killed.
It draws a very sympathetic portrait of the person in that situation and or really makes us try to understand how somebody gets that, said Watson. Were all one step away from doing something desperate.

The series was a critical hit in Britain, with The Independent saying You wont see more blatant awards fodder this year, but that doesnt mean Too Close wont win them, or that theyll be undeserved." The Guardian called it a fantastically compelling, brilliantly scripted whydunnit.

Watson is quick to credit Gough  whose stage work includes People, Places and Things and Angels in America  as an intense talent able to capture damage and explosiveness. It was amazing to go onto the dance floor with somebody like that, Watson said.

She and Salaman have known each other since nursery school and through their teens as both pursued acting careers. They both starred as 13-year-olds in a production of As You Like It, with Salaman as Rosalind and Watson as Celia.

Salaman, who appeared on The Bill from 1999 to 2001 before turning to writing, handed over the manuscript of Too Close to Watson even before it was published, telling her friend it might make a good TV piece.
Former Lake County Recorder Michael B. Brown pleaded not guilty to a felony drug dealing charge Wednesday in a northern Wisconsin courtroom.

The plea came moments after Forest County Judge Leon Stenz found Wisconsin Assistant District Attorney Alexander Seifert established probable cause to believe Brown committed possession of marijuana with intent to deliver.

Stenz did not immediately set a trial date on the charge, which carries a possible sentence of up to 3 1/2 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

The brief preliminary hearing, held via videoconferencing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, largely featured Sgt. Adam Boney of the Forest County Sheriff's Department speaking about the drugs and drug paraphernalia he allegedly found in Brown's car after pulling Brown over at 12:20 a.m. March 15 in the town of Wabeno, Wisconsin, for driving with only one headlight.

Specifically, Boney claimed to have discovered a glass Ball jar with 10.6 grams of marijuana, two digital scales with green plant residue, an opened box of 100 plastic sandwich bags, a package of organic hemp rolling papers, and $2,800 cash.

Under questioning by Brown's attorney, Robert A. Kennedy, Boney admitted the amount of marijuana in Brown's car was consistent with what one person might have for personal use.
CROWN POINT  A Michigan man was sentenced Wednesday to nine years in prison for causing his 1-month-old son's life-threatening injuries last year at a Merrillville motel.

Albert E. Monroy Jr., 22, of Battle Creek, Michigan, pleaded guilty in April to neglect of a dependent resulting in serious bodily injury, a level 3 felony.

He could have faced up to 12 years under his plea agreement.

Lake Criminal Court Judge Natalie Bokota sentenced Monroy to 10 years, with nine years to be served in prison and one year suspended in favor of probation.

Monroy, who was represented by attorney Michael Woods, admitted the child suffered life-threatening injuries after the child's mother left the baby in his care while she went to work Oct. 23.

After about an hour, Monroy called the mother and said there was something wrong with the child, records state.

Monroy came out of his room at the Fair Bridge Inn in Merrillville and handed the child to another man staying at the hotel, who told police the child appeared to be lifeless and had bruises, according to court documents.
MERRILLVILLE  Despite roadblocks from the pandemic, a local organization is working on several homes for Region families in need at locations in Lake Station, Merrillville, Lowell and Gary.

By year's end, Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana plans to have seven homes completed, said Wende Burbridge, director of development for the organization.

Most recently, Suncrest Christian Church partnered with Habitat for Humanity to build walls for a new home being built for a family in Merrillville.

A group of 50 volunteers from the church built all 32 interior and exterior walls and provided donations for materials. The group recently gathered to build the walls in the Suncrest Church parking lot in St. John, which will eventually be shipped to the site.

Jared Mehrle, missions pastor for Suncrest Christian Church said partnering with Habitat for Humanity has given the church an opportunity to "transform lives in ways we could not on our own."

We are so grateful for our partnership with Suncrest Christian Church to stabilize yet another family in the Region," said Dawn Michaels, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana. "Decent, affordable housing is critical to the welfare of each and every family.
MERRILLVILLE  Authorities said the investigation continues after a missing woman was pulled from Deep River.

The body of 32-year-old Steffani Sanders was found around 2 p.m. Tuesday in the river near the 9300 block of Colorado Street, according to the Lake County coroner's office.

A property owner doing yard work in the area called police after he saw the body in the water, said Indiana Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officer Alex Neel.

After Merrillville police investigated and found the remains, Merrillville firefighters, the Lake County coroner's staff, the Lake County Crime Lab and the Indiana DNR were called to the scene. Neel said the deceased woman was stuck by some logs in the river and Merrillville Fire Department divers retrieved her body.

Merrillville police said Sanders' family has continued to cooperate with investigators. The Merrillville Police Department did not release whether foul play was suspected in Sanders' death.

Her manner and cause of death were listed as pending by the coroner's office, according to the report.

Authorities began searching for Sanders in mid-March after a police pursuit.
Biden, who lowered his infrastructure price-tag to $1.7 trillion from $2.3 trillion earlier this month in hopes of reaching a bipartisan compromise, wants to pay for the plan through a series of tax increases, the most significant of which would bump the corporate rate from 21% to 28%. Under calculations provided by Biden advisers, the tax raises would net enough money to pay for the $1.7 trillion package in full over a decade.
CROWN POINT  A Portage man was charged Tuesday with raping an intellectually disabled woman he met at work several times this year.

Danny L. Allen Sr., 58, is accused of befriending the 19-year-old woman after she began working with him at a Hobart restaurant last summer.

A Lake Criminal Court magistrate entered not guilty pleas on Allen's behalf Wednesday to two felony counts of rape and one count of sexual battery. A public defender was appointed.

The girl's mother told police she received a call last fall about her daughter, who has the mental capacity of a 12-year-old, kissing a man in a parking lot at a Merrillville church, court records state.

The mother said she learned the man was Allen and called him to tell him to stay away from her daughter, records state.

Earlier this year, the woman began asking to be dropped off an hour early at work to wipe down menus, records state.

The woman recently told police Allen told her to come to work early so he could drive her to a nearby location and have sex with her, court documents allege.

She alleged Allen did not ask her for permission before having sex with her on seven occasions between January and late February.
CROWN POINT  A Merrillville man could avoid prison time in connection with a 2019 shooting that occurred after he and his friends were kicked out of a Munster festival for fighting, court records show.

Alonzo Kirk Jr., 24, pleaded guilty last week to a reduced charge of criminal recklessness, a level 5 felony.

Kirk admitted in a plea agreement he was driving in the 2000 block of Ridge Road in Highland on June 22, 2019, when he handed his gun to one of his co-defendants and a co-defendant used it to fire multiple shots at a car occupied by three people.

Kirk and co-defendants, Le'Montrell J. Johnson and Damajae M. McKenzie, both 23 and of Merrillville, thought the other car was occupied by people they had fought with earlier that night at the St. Thomas More Festival in Munster, court records state.

An infant, two children and two women also were riding in the tan 2002 GMC Yukon driven by Kirk during the shooting, according to court records.

Witnesses told police Kirk cut off an ambulance and a passenger in his SUV fired about 30 shots at the other vehicle, court records state.

The three people in the other vehicle ducked, avoiding injury, records state.
HAMMOND  A man was wounded in a drive-by shooting and later died from his injuries after taking refuge inside a McDonald's on the Indiana-Illinois state line, police said.

Asael Rivera, also known as Asael Wilson, 26, had been shot in his lower back sometime before he entered the restaurant at 4047 E. 106th St., according to police and the Cook County medical examiner's office.

The man had addresses in both Chicago and East Chicago, authorities said.

Chicago police responded to the restaurant about 7:47 p.m. Tuesday.

There, a wounded Rivera had entered and sat down inside. Employees noticed something was wrong and called 911, Chicago police said.

Rivera was transported to the University of Chicago, where he was pronounced dead about 8:36 p.m.

Hammond police, who are leading an investigation, were notified of the man's death about 12:15 a.m. Wednesday, said Lt. Steve Kellogg.

Investigators believe Rivera was shot as he was riding his bike along State Line Avenue near the intersection of East 106th Street and Indianapolis Boulevard.

There, a vehicle pulled up near him and fired several shots, striking him once, Kellogg said.
VALPARAISO  Sentencing has been delayed by a month for one of three Gary men who pleaded guilty to the 2019 robbery and shooting death of 27-year-old Portage resident Adriana Saucedo.

Jonathan Brown, 19, was scheduled to be sentenced Tuesday, but conflicts with his attorney and the court required that the hearing be pushed back until June 30, according to the court.

Brown pleaded guilty in February before Porter Circuit Court Judge Mary DeBoer to a felony count of robbery resulting in serious bodily injury.

The gunman in the case, Shaun Thompson, 18, had pleaded guilty to the charge of murder in the perpetration of a robbery and was sentenced last week to 50 years behind bars with the requirement of serving 75% of the term.

Roderick Silas, 17, pleaded guilty in December to robbery resulting in serious bodily injury in return for prosecutors dropping counts of aiding, inducing or causing a murder, and murder in perpetration of a robbery.

Silas is awaiting sentencing.
"They made sure we were successful," Banach said.

Dania Corral, a U.S. Army veteran who served two years in Iraq, three years on active duty and six years in the National Guard, was facing a charge of operating while intoxicated.

She works for the Occupational Health and Safety Administration and would not have been able to move into a new position there with a conviction on her record, she said.

"I'm glad I did it," she said. "I got therapy that I needed as a veteran."

Corral now hopes to become a mentor to other Veterans Treatment Court participants, she said.

Larry Spear Sr. said his son, Larry Spear Jr., was in a terrible accident before entering the program. Spear was by his son's side the entire time, he said.

"I want to thank everyone for helping my son get to where he needed to be," he said.

Participants in the Veterans Treatment Court submit to regular drug testing and check-ins with Cantrell. Over time, their visits become less frequent.

The program helps connect participants with services, including alcohol and drug treatment and therapy.
"Although it is not necessarily contrary to (House Enrolled Act 1405) to require the COVID-19 vaccine for students and employees, requiring them to provide proof of it is in clear violation of the statute," Rokita said.

In that vein, Rokita said Purdue University's proposed plan to exempt COVID-19 vaccine recipients from regular COVID-19 testing likely passes muster because it does not condition university enrollment or employment on providing proof of COVID-19 vaccination status.

"(Purdue's policy) permits even vaccinated students to not provide the university with their immunization status if they are willing to be tested for COVID-19," Rokita said.

IU officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the attorney general's opinion, which has no force of law but typically will be taken into consideration by an Indiana court if there is a pending lawsuit relating to the issue.

The university previously said universal vaccination will ensure the school safely can lift most masking and social distancing requirements, and confidently return to in-person learning this fall, including at the Indiana University Northwest campus in Gary.

The attorney general's opinion was requested by state Sen. Andy Zay, R-Huntington, and state Rep. Peggy Mayfield, R-Martinsville.
"We know, especially in Indiana, not everybody has a car, not everybody has a great transit link for where they need to be," Buttigieg said. "So that's where Uber and Lyft stepping up can make a big difference, and we're doing everything we can to get the word out about that."

Buttigieg also noted free Uber and Lyft rides can be arranged to any of the 1,075 vaccine sites in the Hoosier State, including most hospitals, health clinics, retail pharmacies, and public health departments located throughout Northwest Indiana.

He said individuals interested in being protected against COVID-19 can find a vaccine site through the federal vaccines.gov website, or by texting their ZIP code to 438829 to receive a list of nearby locations. Information about the vaccines also is available on the website.

"It is natural to have a lot of questions and those questions can get answered," he said. "Vaccines.gov is a great resource."

More details about each of the vaccine sites in Indiana also are available online at ourshot.in.gov. Appointments are not required to be vaccinated at any site in the Hoosier State.
VALPARAISO  Three Porter County Emergency Management Agency volunteers and an aide were honored for going above and beyond in their response to the pandemic.

Section leaders Richard Bohan, Matthew Melton and Angelina Valente gave countless hours of service to the pandemic response. Administrative Assistant Ellen Reed also worked long beyond what her shift required, without extra pay, to get work done.

The Porter County Emergency Operations Center was activated March 13, the same day children were sent home from school because of Gov. Eric Holcombs stay-at-home order, Melton said.

Rather than staying home, these individuals made the decision to come to our agency in order to assist the emergency responders and citizens of Porter County, EMA Director Lance Bella said. They began arriving each morning, working 10 to 12 hours per day, a minimum of five days each week. They continued this practice for nearly three months, knowing full well they would receive no compensation for their efforts.

During that time, EMA faced many challenges, including calls of desperation from emergency services agencies, Bella said.
VALPARAISO  Kids 18 and under will be able to get free meals this summer through the Summer Food Service Program at various locations throughout Northwest Indiana.

Valparaiso Community Schools will have free meals on weekdays available for curbside pickup between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. at Thomas Jefferson Middle School, 1600 Roosevelt Rd. in Valparaiso, according to a news release from the district. Parents can pre-order a free daily kit with breakfast and lunch.

Summer school students will have access to free breakfast and lunch in the cafeteria and won't need to pre-order, the release said.

Meals will be available Monday through Friday starting June 3-25 and again from July 5-23, the release said. All kids 18 and under are eligible to receive meals. For a menu and instructions for pre-ordering, people can call the School Nutrition office at 219-531-3050.

Free meals will also be available this summer at the Portage Township YMCA, according to a news release. Meals will be available to all children 18 and younger and to people over 18 who are enrolled in a state-approved educational program for the mentally or physically disabled, the release said.
Alma Barragan was shot to death Tuesday while campaigning for office in Moroleon, a city in the north-central state of Guanajuato, which is the site of an increasingly violent turf battle between organized crime gangs. She was the third member of the Citizens Movement party killed in the past two weeks, according to local media.
PORTAGE  The Indiana Department of Environmental Management has scheduled a virtual public hearing for 6 p.m. today regarding its plan to renew a five-year wastewater permit for the U.S. Steel Midwest plant.

The Portage facility has been operating under a proposed consent decree reached with state and federal officials after it released nearly 300 pounds of hexavalent chromium  or 584 times the daily maximum limit allowed under state permitting laws  into the Burns Waterway in April 2017.

The discharge sent hexavalent chromium, the toxic chemical featured in the movie "Erin Brockovich," into Lake Michigan and resulted in the closure of several beaches and a shutdown at Indiana American Water's Ogden Dunes intake facility.

The release also spurred lawsuits against U.S. Steel filed on behalf of the Surfrider Foundation and Chicago. The parties later were granted permission to intervene in the government's case against the steelmaker.

The government's case includes a proposed consent decree that calls for U.S. Steel to pay a $601,242 civil penalty and more than $625,000 in response costs and damages to government agencies for its April 2017 spill of hexavalent chromium.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The Biden administration informed Russia on Thursday that it will not rejoin a key arms control pact, even as the two sides prepare for a summit next month between their leaders, the State Department said.

U.S. officials said Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman told the Russians that the administration had decided not to reenter the Open Skies Treaty, which had allowed surveillance flights over military facilities in both countries before President Donald Trump withdrew from the pact. As a presidential candidate, Biden had criticized Trump's withdrawal as short-sighted.

Thursday's decision means only one major arms control treaty between the nuclear powers  the New START treaty  will remain in place. Trump had done nothing to extend New START, which would have expired earlier this year, but after taking office, the Biden administration moved quickly to extend it for five years and opened a review into Trump's Open Skies Treaty withdrawal.

The officials said that the review had been completed and that Sherman had informed Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov of the U.S. decision not to return to the 1992 Open Skies Treaty. The officials were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. The State Department later announced the move.
Much has been written about how rare it is for a police officer to be charged for an on-duty killing. Philip Stinson, a Bowling Green University criminal justice professor who tracks police prosecutions, has found that since 2005, just 142 non-federal police officers have been charged with murder or manslaughter for on-duty shootings.

Chauvin is part of an even smaller roster of officers who have actually been convicted in on-duty killings: According to Stinson's count, Chauvin is just the eighth officer convicted of murder for an on-duty killing.

The officers convicted of murder for on-duty shootings were sentenced to an average of 16.4 years in prison, Stinson found. In comparison, the average sentence for a murder conviction in the United States was, just over 48.8 years as of 2018, according to a report released this year by the U.S. Department of Justices Bureau of Justice Statistics.

The average time they spend behind bars can be considerably less than that. Depending on the state, convicted felons can have as much as half their sentence lopped off if they behave themselves in prison. In Minnesota, the presumption is that defendants with good behavior will serve two-thirds of their sentences before they are released on parole.
When a fictional caterpillar chomps through one apple, two pears, three plums, four strawberries, five oranges, one piece of chocolate cake, one ice cream cone, one pickle, one slice of Swiss cheese, one slice of salami, one lollipop, one piece of cherry pie, one sausage, one cupcake and one slice of watermelon, it might get a stomach ache.

But it might also become the star of one of the best-selling childrens books of all time.

Eric Carle, the artist and author who created that creature in his book The Very Hungry Caterpillar, a tale that has charmed generations of children and parents alike, died on Sunday at his summer studio in Northampton, Mass. He was 91.

His death, which was announced on Wednesday, was caused by kidney failure, his son, Rolf, said.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Mr. Carles best-known book, has sold more than 55 million copies around the world since it was first published in 1969, its mere 224 words translated into more than 70 languages. It is one of more than 70 books that Mr. Carle published over his career, selling more than 170 million copies, according to his publisher, Penguin Random House.

In 2003, he received the prestigious Laura Ingalls Wilder Award (now called the Childrens Literature Legacy Award) from the American Library Association, which recognizes authors and illustrators whose books have created a lasting contribution to childrens literature.
Biden calls for a new inquiry into the coronavirus

President Biden has ordered U.S. intelligence agencies to investigate the origins of the coronavirus, calling for a broad government report on whether the virus was accidentally leaked from a lab in Wuhan, China. He has given them 90 days to report back.

The request came as the W.H.O. faced criticism over a March report dismissing the possibility of a lab accident. The theory was largely drowned out last year by scientists accounts of the viruss more likely path from an animal host to humans in a natural setting.

Quotable: Testifying to Senate lawmakers, Dr. Francis Collins, the National Institutes of Health director, said the virus most likely arose naturally. But we cannot exclude the possibility of some kind of a lab accident, he added.
The Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday authorized a monoclonal antibody drug developed by GlaxoSmithKline and Vir as the third treatment of its kind cleared to help keep high-risk Covid patients out of the hospital.

In laboratory tests the newly authorized drug, known as sotrovimab, has been able to neutralize the virus variants first identified in Britain, South Africa, Brazil, California, New York and India. The U.S. federal government, which has so far purchased the other antibody treatments given to Covid patients in the country, has not announced any plans to purchase the new drug.

GSK has been in conversations with the U.S. government and is working through existing commercial channels to make sotrovimab available to patients and health systems in need, Kathleen Quinn, a company spokeswoman, said.

The company said in a news release that it expected the drug to become available in the U.S. in the coming weeks.
The Fox News host Juan Williams said on Wednesday that he was leaving his longtime perch on The Five, the weekday afternoon chat show where he had served as the liberal outlier of an otherwise reliably conservative quintet of hosts.

Mr. Williams abruptly announced his exit at the end of Wednesdays broadcast, citing in part his bout with the coronavirus, which he contracted at the end of last year.

Covid taught me a lot of lessons, Mr. Williams told viewers in brief remarks, adding that he would remain at Fox News as a senior political analyst based in Washington, where he lives. Its been going on seven years since I have been a daily host of this show. The shows popularity has grown every single year. So thank you. Thank you so much, to you, the viewers.

Fox News said it would fill Mr. Williamss role with another liberal-leaning commentator, to retain the ideological makeup of the show. Until then, a rotating group of substitute hosts will appear on The Five. Geraldo Rivera, a Fox News correspondent, and former Representative Harold Ford Jr. have made guest appearances in the shows liberal slot.
Over the past 60 years, Alaska has warmed more than twice as fast as the rest of the United States. Arctic ecosystems are in disarray, sea ice is disappearing, sea levels are rising and the ground is thawing.

A federal court halted construction in February while the case is pending. The court could ultimately still decide against the project, its critics said. But oil and gas industry officials and members of Alaskas congressional delegation, some of whom personally appealed to President Biden this week, said they believed the administrations support would help it proceed.

Senator Dan Sullivan, Republican of Alaska, called the project a big, big deal for Alaska, a big deal in my view for America when speaking with reporters earlier this week. He said he raised the Willow project directly with President Biden when he and other members of the Alaska delegation went to the White House on Monday for the signing of a tourism bill allowing cruise ships to visit Alaska.

He said hed look into it and get back to us, Mr. Sullivan told reporters after that White House meeting.

The decision comes just days after the International Energy Agency, the worlds top energy body, warned that governments must stop investing in new fossil fuel projects if they want to keep the increase in average global temperatures below 2 degrees Celsius, compared to preindustrial levels. Thats the threshold beyond which scientists say the Earth will experience irreversible damage.

It also stands in stark contrast to Mr. Bidens pledge to cut United States emissions about in half by 2030, replace fossil fuels with solar, wind and other renewable energy and enhance protections for public lands and waters.

This is especially disappointing coming from a president who promised to do better, said Siqiniq Maupin, executive director of Sovereign Inupiat for a Living Arctic in Alaska.
Amy Cooper, a white woman who last year became an international symbol of the routine racism that Black people face in their daily lives, is suing her former employer for firing her, arguing that she is a victim of racial discrimination.

Ms. Cooper makes the claim in a lawsuit filed this week against the investment firm Franklin Templeton, which terminated her employment a year ago after she was captured on a widely shared video in a tense encounter with a Black bird-watcher.

The lawsuit is the latest fallout from the May 2020 episode in Central Park, which touched off intense discussions about the history of white people making false, and sometimes life-threatening, accusations against Black people to the police.

The encounter, in the section of the park known as the Ramble, began with the bird-watcher, Christian Cooper, asking Ms. Cooper to leash her dog as park rules required. She refused, and Mr. Cooper said he would give the dog treats to draw the animal away from her. (Mr. Cooper and Ms. Cooper are not related.)
According to The Guardian, a letter that circulated on social media Wednesday claimed responsibility and appeared to include details not released publicly. The name of the group claiming responsibility was not released.
And the violence isnt just shootings. The incivility trickles down.

Many of the people we considered essential workers, the ones who kept our society functioning, are the same people on the receiving end of much of the violence. There has been a surge in unruly passengers on airplanes. A Southwest Airlines flight attendant had two teeth knocked out over the weekend when she was attacked by a passenger.

New York City bus drivers have seen a surge in violence, and the medical field, already suffering from a pre-Covid surge, has seen even more violence.

This is all happening at the same time that we see an extraordinary surge in gun background checks and purchases during the pandemic.

As The Washington Post reported in February:

More than 2 million firearms were bought last month, according to The Washington Posts analysis of federal gun background-check data. That is an 80 percent year-over-year spike and the third-highest one-month total on record. Many of the gun buyers are first-time gun buyers.

Gun violence and gun sales are part of a self-perpetuating and mutually reinforcing phenomenon, and are only amplified by talk of gun control. As CNN put it in March: The pattern of rising gun sales following mass shootings has held true regardless of which political party is in power: Fears of future restrictions prompt gun owners to stock up.

Indeed, one of the ironies of the Biden administration is that although the president has urged more gun control and taken some executive actions on the issue, both The Washington Examiner and Forbes have reported that stimulus checks issued while he was in office helped fuel the gun buying surge.

As we begin to get back to normal, as some states plan to lift restrictions this summer, schools plan to reopen in the fall and in-office desk jobs begin to beckon stay-at-home workers, we must remember that there is a segment of society that will not so easily shake off the effects of this pandemic.
Attorney General Mike Hunter of Oklahoma announced his resignation on Wednesday, a day after a local newspaper said it had questioned him about an extramarital affair.

Regrettably, certain personal matters that are becoming public will become a distraction for this office, Mr. Hunter said in a statement on Wednesday. I cannot allow a personal issue to overshadow the vital work the attorneys, agents and support staff do on behalf of Oklahomans.

He said he would officially step down on Tuesday.

His abrupt announcement came after The Oklahoman said it had sent him questions on Tuesday night about an extramarital affair that it said it had confirmed through people familiar with the situation.

Mr. Hunter, a Republican, filed for divorce on Friday from Cheryl Hunter, his wife of 39 years, the newspaper reported. The Oklahoman reported that, according to the people it had spoken with, the affair had been with an employee of the state Insurance Department who had filed for divorce in April from her husband of 25 years.
Biden called for U.S. intelligence agencies to redouble investigative efforts into the origins of the coronavirus.

Prime Minister Boris Johnsons former top aide painted a damning picture of the U.K. governments pandemic response.

Good news on immunity

Scientists have feared that immunity to the coronavirus, whether through infection or vaccination, may be short-lived. But a pair of novel studies suggest that immunity lasts for at least a year  and maybe even decades for some people.

For people who have had Covid and have been vaccinated, this is excellent news because it means that they will probably never need a booster again  it seems like theyre pretty much set for life, said my colleague Apoorva Mandavilli, who covers science for The Times. For people who havent had Covid but are vaccinated, those people will probably need boosters, and within a year or so.

Both of the studies looked at a type of immune cell that can remember the virus and lives in the bone marrow until it is needed to produce antibodies.

Getting bone marrow is an involved procedure, its not just like drawing blood, Apoorva said. So the fact that they were able to get bone marrow from people, and not just once but multiple times, is a big deal.
Senator Chris Coons, Democrat of Delaware, was hurrying to a vote through the Capitols cavernous underground tunnel system on a recent Thursday when his phone rang. It was Pete Buttigieg, the secretary of transportation, calling for a quick briefing before an infrastructure meeting he had scheduled with a group of Republican senators.

Mr. Coons brushed off the reporters trailing him, propped his computer tablet against a railing next to the Senate subway track, and began typing away, taking notes, as he lowered his voice to share the skinny on the Republicans.

These are Republican senators he doesnt know, Mr. Coons said of Mr. Buttigieg after the two hung up. So its just sort of tactical advice about specific members. What are their interests? Whats the background? Do you think theres room for progress?

Before the end of the day, Mr. Coonss phone would ring several more times, with various White House officials on the other end  seeking counsel, scuttlebutt and insight that President Biden needed to navigate his agenda through the Senate.
At the rail yard, workers said, panic erupted as word spread of gunfire in two buildings. While bomb squads searched for explosives there, firefighters were responding to a blaze at Mr. Cassidys empty home, about eight miles away.

Survivors of the shooting were led to a separate building in the municipal complex where some were reunited with family members, a scene that James Kostmayer, a local government employee, called heartbreaking.

You could hear the screams and cries of the families from the elevator, he said, adding that he heard a mother screaming, My son, my son.

Christina Gonzalez choked back tears as she waited for news outside the American Red Cross center in San Jose, where survivors and their families were later sent for counseling. She said that her cousin Michael Rudometkin had been at a union meeting that morning and that his family had been unable to reach him.

She described Mr. Rudometkin as a very good person who had loved his job and just always stood up for everyones rights.
Former Aide to Boris Johnson Describes Chaos and Incompetence in Britains Covid Response Dominic Cummings tells lawmakers that the prime minister suggested that a doctor inject him with the coronavirus on live television. The F.D.A. approves a third antibody treatment for people with high-risk Covid.

Boris Johnsons former top aide paints a damning picture of the U.K. governments pandemic response. Dominic Cummings testifying about the British governments response to the pandemic at a Parliamentary hearing in London on Wednesday. Credit... UK Parliament, via Agence France-Presse  Getty Images LONDON  Dominic Cummings, the former top aide to Prime Minister Boris Johnson of Britain, on Wednesday painted a picture of chaos, incompetence and confusion at the heart of the government in a ferociously critical account of its early handling of the Covid-19 pandemic. Testifying before lawmakers, Mr. Cummings said that Mr. Johnson had initially regarded Covid-19 as a scare story and at one point had suggested that a doctor inject him with the coronavirus on live television to play down the dangers to a worried public. The prime minister was being advised by a health secretary, Matt Hancock, whom Mr. Cummings accused in his testimony of lying repeatedly, being unworthy of the health care workers he directed and presiding over the deadly transfer of elderly patients from hospitals to nursing homes, many of them carrying the virus. And as the pandemic closed in on Britain, Mr. Johnson was distracted, his former aide said, by an unflattering story about his fiancee and her dog. When the public needed us most, the government failed, said Mr. Cummings, the political strategist who masterminded Britains campaign to leave the European Union and engineered Mr. Johnsons rise to power before falling out bitterly with his boss and emerging as a self-styled whistle-blower. Mr. Cummings testified for more than seven hours, in a scene with few precedents in British politics: an unelected aide who had been arguably the nations second-most powerful man, offering an unfiltered look at the inner workings of the British government as it confronted the greatest national emergency since World War II. The problem in this crisis was very much lions led by donkeys, over and over again, Mr. Cummings said. Mr. Johnson, who was hospitalized with a severe case of Covid-19 in April 2020, flatly rejected several of the assertions of his former aide in his own appearance on Wednesday in Parliament, where lawmakers are trying to determine how the early days of the pandemic were botched so badly. Mr. Cummings, 49, did not absolve himself of all blame. He admitted he had not been open about the reasons for a much-criticized road trip he made with his family that breached lockdown rules. And he acknowledged his mistake in not pushing the prime minister to lock down the country earlier than he did, in March of last year. Yes, it was a huge failing of mine, Mr. Cummings told a joint meeting of Parliaments Science and Technology Committee and Health and Social Care Committees. I bitterly regret that I did not hit the emergency panic button earlier than I did. Stephen Castle and

The F.D.A. authorizes another antibody treatment for high-risk Covid patients. A Covid patient receiving an infusion of a monoclonal antibody treatment in Albano, Italy, last month. Credit... Yara Nardi/Reuters The Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday authorized a monoclonal antibody drug developed by GlaxoSmithKline and Vir as the third treatment of its kind cleared to help keep high-risk Covid patients out of the hospital. In laboratory tests the newly authorized drug, known as sotrovimab, has been able to neutralize the virus variants first identified in Britain, South Africa, Brazil, California, New York and India. The U.S. federal government, which has so far purchased the other antibody treatments given to Covid patients in the country, has not announced any plans to purchase the new drug. GSK has been in conversations with the U.S. government and is working through existing commercial channels to make sotrovimab available to patients and health systems in need, Kathleen Quinn, a company spokeswoman, said. The company said in a news release that it expected the drug to become available in the U.S. in the coming weeks. The new treatment may offer an advantage as concerns rise about new virus variants that may evade some antibody drugs. The federal government has paused shipments of one antibody treatment on the market, a cocktail of two drugs from Eli Lilly, to eight states because of the high prevalence there of the variants first seen in South Africa and Brazil. Lab experiments suggest that those variants can resist Lillys treatment. (The other available antibody treatment, a cocktail of two drugs from Regeneron, appears to neutralize the array of variants, based on lab tests.) GSK and Virs treatment is a single drug, designed to mimic the antibodies generated naturally when the immune system fights off the coronavirus, like those detectable after someone infected with it recovers. Its authorization was based on a study of 583 volunteers who had started experiencing symptoms within the previous five days. The study found that those who got the GSK-Vir treatment showed an 85 percent reduction in their risk of hospitalization or death, compared with those who got a placebo. Even as vaccination numbers rise and infection rates fall in the United States, the antibody treatments are likely to remain an important tool for preventing bad outcomes in high-risk patients, doctors say. Thousands of people in the United States are still testing positive, and hundreds dying, each day. Last week the F.D.A. broadened the criteria that doctors can use to determine eligibility for the treatment, opening the door for more young people with certain medical conditions like hypertension and members of racial or ethnic groups considered to be at higher risk than others for bad medical outcomes. Ultimately, it gives prescribers a lot of latitude in what they can give this for, said Dr. Walid F. Gellad, who directs the Center for Pharmaceutical Policy and Prescribing at the University of Pittsburgh. But the drugs from Lilly and Regeneron have not been used as widely as expected for a range of reasons, according to public health experts. The antibody drugs are all cumbersome to administer. Patients often dont know to ask for them or where to find them. And many doctors were skeptical of the evidence supporting the treatments when they first became available last November, though that has changed as more clinical trials have reported impressive results. Theres still a role for these, Dr. Gellad said. The problem is just people arent getting them who could benefit from them, and having another one on the market doesnt necessarily solve that. GSK and Virs treatment, like the other antibody drugs, must be administered via intravenous infusion by a health care provider, which will make it harder to access. The drug makers are testing a formulation injected intramuscularly, like a vaccine, but that is not expected to be available soon.

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The coronavirus is raging in Manitoba, hitting Indigenous people especially hard. Paramedics in Winnipeg, the capital of Manitoba, Canada, last year. The province, in the prairies in the center of the country, has seen a surge in coronavirus cases recently despite being sparsely populated. Credit... Shannon VanRaes/Reuters The coronavirus is now spreading faster in Manitoba than in any other province or state in Canada, the United States or Mexico, with Indigenous people and people of color hit disproportionately hard. Figures released on Wednesday show that over the last two weeks, the prairie province in the middle of Canada reported an average of 35 new cases a day per 100,000 population. Canada as a whole is averaging about 10 a day per 100,000; the United States, 7 per 100,000; and Mexico, 2 per 100,000. The next highest states or provinces are Alberta at 16 and Colorado at 15. Dr. Marcia Anderson, the public health lead of the Manitoba First Nation Pandemic Response Coordination Team, told reporters on Wednesday that from the beginning of the month until May 19, Indigenous people and other nonwhite people accounted for 61 percent of cases in Manitoba, even though they make up 37 percent of the provinces population. People of Southeast Asian descent are the most disproportionately affected, with a rate of 146 per 1,000 people, 13 times the rate among white people. The surge in Covid-19 cases has overwhelmed intensive care units in Manitobas hospitals, forcing some patients to be evacuated by air to other provinces. Eighteen patients have been flown to neighboring Ontario, including some to Ottawa, about 1,000 miles away. Saskatchewan, the province to the west, was expected to receive an evacuated patient from Manitoba on Wednesday. On Tuesday, a group of doctors called on the province to follow the lead of Ontario and others by introducing a stay-at-home order and closing nonessential businesses. Those steps have allowed other provinces to rein in their most recent waves of infections. Stores in Manitoba have been limited to 10 percent of capacity, and gyms and hair salons have been closed for several weeks. On Tuesday, the provinces premier, Brian Pallister, extended limits on outdoor gatherings that were put in place for last weekend; they now last until the end of this week. Mr. Pallister suggested on Tuesday that the worsening situation in the province was being caused not by too few restrictions but rather by people failing to comply with restrictions already in place. I dont have a lot of sympathy left for people who disobey public health orders knowingly and willingly, he said.

President Biden calls for U.S. intelligence agencies to investigate the origins of the virus. Video transcript Back bars 0:00 / 1:27 - 0:00 transcript U.S. to Redouble Efforts Into Coronavirus Origin Investigation The Biden administration announced that it has called on intelligence agencies to redouble their efforts to investigate the origins of the coronavirus pandemic in China as a way to prevent future pandemics. Today, the president asked the intelligence community to redouble their efforts to collect and analyze information that could bring us closer to a definitive conclusion, and to report back to him in 90 days. Back in early 2020, the president called for the C.D.C. to get access to China to learn about the virus so we could fight it more effectively. Getting to the bottom of the origin of this pandemic will help us understand how to prepare for the next pandemic, and the next one. As we have done throughout our Covid response, we have been committed to a whole of government effort to ensure were doing everything to both understand and end this pandemic, and to prevent future pandemics. This is why the president is asking the U.S. intelligence community, in cooperation with other elements of our government, to redouble efforts to collect and analyze information that could bring the world closer to a definitive conclusion on the origin of the virus and deliver a report to him again in 90 days. And we will continue to press China to participate in a full, transparent, evidence-based international investigation with the needed access to get to the bottom of a virus thats taken more than three million lives across the globe. The Biden administration announced that it has called on intelligence agencies to redouble their efforts to investigate the origins of the coronavirus pandemic in China as a way to prevent future pandemics. Credit Credit... Ng Han Guan/Associated Press President Biden ordered U.S. intelligence agencies on Wednesday to investigate the origins of the coronavirus, indicating that his administration takes seriously the possibility that the deadly virus was accidentally leaked from a lab, in addition to the prevailing theory that it was transmitted by an animal to humans outside a lab. In a statement, Mr. Biden made it clear that the C.I.A. and other intelligence agencies had not yet reached a consensus on how the virus, which prompted a pandemic and has killed almost 600,000 Americans, originated in China. He directed them to report back to him in 90 days. I have now asked the intelligence community to redouble their efforts to collect and analyze information that could bring us closer to a definitive conclusion, the president said. Mr. Bidens statement, his most public and expansive yet on the question of how the virus spread to humans, came as top health officials renewed their appeals this week for a more rigorous inquiry. And it followed mounting criticism of a report from an international team of experts convened by the World Health Organization that largely dismissed the possibility that the virus had accidentally escaped from a Chinese laboratory called the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Deep uncertainty remains about the origins of a virus that spread to every part of the globe over 17 months. The assessments of scientists are largely unchanged: Many believe that a so-called natural spillover from animal to human remains the most plausible explanation. While U.S. intelligence agencies have collected some new evidence, the additional information is not enough to allow them to draw definitive conclusions about long-simmering theories regarding the lab in the city of Wuhan, the center of the outbreak. But the presidents carefully worded directive underscored a new surge in interest about the lab, which President Donald J. Trump and some of his top aides repeatedly blamed for the pandemic. Some scientists attributed the renewed focus on the lab to Mr. Trumps departure from the White House  and being less identified with the theory  while others said it reflected the deep frustrations with the recent W.H.O. report that was co-written by Chinese scientists. Michael D. Shear, Julian E. Barnes, Carl Zimmer and

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Immunity to the coronavirus may persist for years, scientists find. Receiving a vaccine dose in Seattle last week. Credit... Ruth Fremson/The New York Times Immunity to the coronavirus lasts at least a year, possibly a lifetime, improving over time especially after vaccination, according to two new studies. The findings may help put to rest lingering fears that protection against the virus will be short-lived. Together, the studies suggest that most people who have recovered from Covid-19 and who were later immunized will not need boosters. Vaccinated people who were never infected most likely will need the shots, however, as will a minority who were infected but did not produce a robust immune response. Both reports looked at people who had been exposed to the coronavirus about a year earlier. Cells that retain a memory of the virus persist in the bone marrow and may churn out antibodies whenever needed, according to one of the studies, published on Monday in the journal Nature. The other study, which is also under review for publication in Nature, found that these so-called memory B cells continue to mature and strengthen for at least 12 months after the initial infection.

Ohio picks the first winner of a $1 million prize for those who get vaccinated. Regan Raeth after her vaccination in Kent, Ohio, last month. Ohioans with at least one dose are eligible for the states million-dollar lotteries. Credit... Phil Long/Associated Press After the state of Ohio announced with great fanfare that residents who got at least one shot of a coronavirus vaccine would be eligible to win a hefty $1 million, Jack Pepper saw something remarkable happen at his sleepy rural vaccination clinic. For the first time in a while, there was a line at the door. Officials, who had been strategizing about how they might give away extra doses, were suddenly operating at full capacity. I think we did close to 400 people in four hours, said Mr. Pepper, the administrator for the health department in Athens County, home to about 65,000 people in southeastern Ohio. Anywhere I go, people are joking with me, Hey, when am I going to win my million dollars? Anticipation approached a peak as the Ohio lottery campaign  deemed Vax-a-Million (including a cheeky bandage on the X)  announced its first winner on television on Wednesday night. Abbigail Bugenske of Silverton, Ohio, near Cincinnati, won the initial $1 million prize. It was among the first of several chances for Americans to win big money  if they have been vaccinated. Colorado announced its own $1 million vaccine lottery this week, and Oregon is offering a $1 million jackpot, in addition to $10,000 prizes. Elsewhere, state and local officials are getting creative with simple approaches (free beer in Erie County, N.Y.) and fancy ones (dinner with the governor of New Jersey, anyone?).

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Will the Tokyo Olympics happen? Public health experts say its time to rethink. A set of Olympic rings illuminated a park in Tokyo last month. Credit... Hiroko Masuike/The New York Times It is a question that people around the world are asking, the one for which millions have an opinion but no one has an answer: Will the Tokyo Olympics happen this summer? The organizers of the Tokyo Olympics said last week that they had entered what they called operational delivery mode for the Summer Games, another clear signal that they will plow ahead toward the opening ceremony, scheduled for July 23, regardless of the state of the pandemic. Yet widely documented polling in Japan shows that most of the countrys population wants the Olympics to be either postponed again or canceled outright. The United States Department of State this week issued a Level 4 travel advisory for Japan  Do not travel. And members of the global health community, prominent business leaders and at least one key Olympic partner continue to voice concerns about the dangers posed by proceeding with the Games. One of the latest warnings came Tuesday in an article published by the New England Journal of Medicine, in which public health specialists criticized the International Olympic Committees so-called playbooks. The packets, created in consultation with the World Health Organization, detail measures designed to keep athletes, other Olympic visitors and the broader Japanese population safe from the virus.

The E.U. may seek billions in penalties if AstraZenecas vaccine deliveries fall short. Preparing doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine in Bratislava, Slovakia, last month. Credit... Akos Stiller for The New York Times Lawyers representing the European Union said on Wednesday that they would seek penalties from AstraZeneca that could run into the billions of euros if the pharmaceutical company fails to deliver tens of millions of doses of Covid-19 vaccine that it is contractually required to supply. In the first hearing in a lawsuit that the E.U. has brought against AstraZeneca, lawyers representing the bloc told the judges in a Brussels courtroom that they would seek 10 (about $12) a dose for each day that delivery is delayed, along with 10 million a day for each of four alleged breaches of contract. The bloc is demanding 90 million doses from the company by the end of June, and another 180 million by the end of September. The proposed penalties, if accepted by the judge, would begin on July 1 and could quickly balloon into billions of euros. The proposed penalty is much higher than the purchase price of the vaccine. The European Union has paid a little over 2 a dose, which AstraZeneca sold at cost when it was first introduced. A European Commission spokesman on health issues, Stefan De Keersmaecker, said that the lawsuits prime goal was to get AstraZeneca to deliver the doses, not to extract money from the company. If the doses are delivered, he said, the demand for penalties would be dropped. Rafael Jafferali, a lawyer representing the bloc, said AstraZeneca diverted millions of doses from plants that were supposed to produce vaccines for the bloc and shipped the doses to other countries instead, including Britain  actions that Mr. Jafferali called a flagrant breach of contract. He accused the company, which is based in Britain and Sweden, of misleading the European Commission for months with calm and reassuring messages that it would be able to fulfill its delivery promises. Fanny Laune, another lawyer representing the European Commission, said that because of delays in AstraZenecas deliveries, millions of people in Europe would be deprived of vaccine protection. We need to vaccinate a lot, and we need to vaccinate quickly, to bring the mortality down, Ms. Laune said. AstraZenecas lawyers hit back at the Commission in court, calling the accusations shocking. Our fundamental principle is equitable global access to vaccines, said Hakim Boularbah of Loyens & Loeff, a firm representing AstraZeneca. The urgency is to vaccinate the whole global population. Developing and mass-producing a new vaccine in so short a time had never been done before, so the supply plan in the contract was an estimate, and was not binding, AstraZenecas lawyers argued. They said the company had no obligation to use all its production facilities to supply the European Union in preference over other countries. AstraZeneca, they said, was fully transparent with the European Commission in late 2020, keeping the commission informed of expected delays because of production problems. The lawyers said the commission was now trying to unilaterally rewrite its contract with AstraZeneca by imposing new delivery deadlines. The litigation between the pharmaceutical company and one of its biggest customers has damaged the reputations of both sides. AstraZeneca has drawn much of the blame for the European Unions slow vaccination start, with shortages of doses delaying the rollout in many member countries. The company has said production problems were to blame. The blocs vaccination efforts have gained pace in recent weeks, and now appear to be on track to get at least one dose to 70 percent of its adult population by the end of June. The Brussels court is expected to issue an emergency ruling on part of the lawsuit within a month. Under Belgian law, a separate lawsuit over damages would be tried in September. Monika Pronczuk and

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Here are some things to know about traveling to Europe this summer. Visitors at the entrance of the Louvre in Paris last week. Credit... Andrea Mantovani for The New York Times After the European Unions announcement on May 19 that vaccinated travelers coming from the United States can soon visit the blocs member nations, the Louvre and Sicilys beaches once again feel within reach. Here are some things to keep in mind. Because the United States remains closed off to international leisure travelers, aviation industry experts say there wont be enough planes flying to cause a huge surge in Europe-bound flights from the United States. Flight schedules are almost certain to change as summer rolls on. But John Grant, a senior aviation analyst at OAG, a travel data and insight provider, suggests that prospective passengers look first at travel to those cities with a high frequency of service, perhaps at least twice daily, since those destinations with just one daily flight or less than daily services are likely to be the more vulnerable services for short notice cancellations. When booking a hotel, one thing to watch for is the credits-versus-refunds flash point: Although vaccines and the eagerness to travel may make the idea of a credit less odious than it seemed last spring, always ask about policy specifics. And realize that any trip to Europe this summer will come down to managing expectations. Save the must check all the boxes trip to Europe for a bit later, once all new protocol kinks have smoothed out, said Louisa Gehring, the owner of Gehring Travel.

With pandemic tensions rising, the Indian police visit Twitters New Delhi offices. Police personnel outside the gate of Twitters office in New Delhi. Credit... Prakash Singh/Agence France-Presse  Getty Images When police officers from Indias elite antiterrorism unit descended on the New Delhi offices of Twitter on Monday night, the visit sent a clear message: Indias powerful governing party is becoming increasingly upset with the social media giant because of the perception that it has sided with critics of the government. With anger growing across the country over Indias stumbling response to the pandemic, people are turning to Twitter to broadcast their complaints, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party have struggled to control the narrative of how the crisis is being handled. As a result, top Indian political leaders have applied increasing pressure on Twitter, as well as on Facebook and other social media platforms. This month, the government ordered social media platforms including Twitter to take down dozens of posts critical of the governments handling of the pandemic. The action on Monday was mostly symbolic: Twitters offices were closed because of Indias devastating coronavirus outbreak. The police acknowledged that they were there not to make arrests, but merely to deliver a notice disputing a warning label that Twitter had placed on some tweets by senior members of the ruling party. Regardless of the clumsy manner in which it was conducted, this raid is an escalation in the stifling of domestic criticism in India, said Gilles Verniers, a professor of political science at Ashoka University near New Delhi. Sameer Yasir and

Singapore gives initial approval to a breathalyzer test that researchers say can detect Covid-19. The breathalyzer test will be used to screen arriving travelers at a border checkpoints. Credit... Chen Lin/Reuters Singapore has provisionally approved a breathalyzer test that its makers say can detect Covid-19 within 60 seconds, and which the government hopes will speed the rate at which diagnoses can be made. The breathalyzer was developed by Breathonix, a company with ties to the National University of Singapore. It will be used to screen arriving travelers at a border checkpoint in the Southeast Asian nation, the company said in a statement on Monday. Breathalyzer tests are commonly used to test the blood alcohol content in drivers suspected of driving while drunk, and are increasingly being developed to detect diseases. The Breathonix test analyzes the volatile organic compounds in a persons breath. People who test positive will be required to take a polymerase chain reaction, or P.C.R., test as confirmation. Breathonix said it had conducted clinical trials between June 2020 and April 2021 in Singapore at the National Center for Infectious Diseases and Changi Airport and in Dubai at the Dubai Health Authority and the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences. The company said in a statement in October that the technology had achieved 90 percent accuracy in a trial. Correction : May 28, 2021 An earlier version of this briefing item misstated the name of the manufacturer of a breathalyzer test for Covid-19. The company is Breathonix, not Breathatonix.

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When the leader of the United Nations more than a year ago implored armed combatants to pause their fighting so the world could focus on battling the coronavirus, he warned that the worst has yet to come in the diseases rampage, especially through conflict zones.

That forecast in April of 2020 by Secretary General Antonio Guterres proved not only correct  it may also have been an understatement.

In many countries, conflict has made it more difficult to control the spread of the virus and care for infected people, Mark Lowcock, the top U.N. relief official, told the Security Council on Tuesday as it met to discuss the protection of civilians in armed conflicts.

Not only did the antagonists in the chronic conflicts of Afghanistan, South Sudan, Syria, eastern Ukraine and Yemen ignore the plea to put down their weapons, but new or renewed fights erupted  between Azerbaijan and Armenia last September, within Ethiopia in November, within Myanmar in February, and most recently between the Israeli military and Hamas in Gaza.
Black magic, zombies, dolls pricked by pins: These might be what most outsiders associate with the Haitian spiritual practice of vodou, especially when its misspelled voodoo. But DanceAfrica, the Brooklyn Academy of Musics festival of African dance, wants to show a different side.

The movies always make vodou out to be some kind of demonic devil worship, said Abdel R. Salaam, the festivals artistic director. But every exposure Ive had has been one of light and empowerment through rhythm. Its an acknowledgment of the divine forces of nature.

Vodou developed among Afro-Haitians as a blending of religions from West Africa with an overlay of Catholicism. Often suppressed, it was (and is) nevertheless ubiquitous on the island and spread to Haitian communities in the United States. Its rituals have been mischaracterized and misunderstood, but one way to think of them is as danced communication and communion with ancestors and spirits.
The writer was 28 in 1930, living in a cottage in Pacific Grove, near Monterey, Calif., hoping for his big break. The year before, he had published his first book, Cup of Gold, a swashbuckling pirate adventure set in the Caribbean in the 1600s. Though it received better than expected reviews, it was already out of print, Mr. Souder said.

Steinbeck had written more serious books but had not had any luck selling them. He told a friend that all he needed was another 10 or so rejections to become convinced that he should give up on writing.

He was also broke, so he decided, Ill just write something terrible for public consumption and try to make a few bucks off it, Mr. Souder said.

Steinbecks writing process typically involved scrawling pages by hand in what Mr. Souder called his microscopic handwriting. His wife, Carol Henning Steinbeck, a superb editor, would then type it up, sometimes making tweaks as she went. It took her a couple of weeks to type Murder at Full Moon, Mr. Souder said.

Mr. Jones, who is one of the few people to have ever read the book, described the plot (spoilers ahead): The book focuses on a cub reporter who takes a job in the fictional town of Cone City near a spooky dismal marsh. He is soon drawn into the orbit of a local hunting club. When one members dog is killed on a moonlit night, the reporter and an eccentric candidate for sheriff decide to investigate. Other, more gruesome killings of people follow, always under a full moon. The illustrations by Steinbeck include a murder scene.

In order to find the killer  who they start to suspect might be a superhuman monster that has arisen from the marsh  the investigators apply a theory of crime detection built on reading bad murder mysteries. This element gives the novel a postmodern, ironic feel, Mr. Jones said.

It is a lost piece of California noir, he said. I think he was inventing something here.

Steinbeck, who dropped out of Stanford, might be surprised that a Stanford professor would one day praise the book. His use of a pen name might seem odd to a modern audience that has grown accustomed to authors of literary fiction dabbling in horror and other genres. But when Steinbeck sent the manuscript to a college friend, he told the friend, I dont want anyone to know I had anything to do with it, Mr. Souder said.
Sunlit bushels of spices, olives, grapes, pomegranates spilling over at markets; streetscapes in Istanbul and Athens; small towns set against the dramatic blue Mediterranean.

Pulling back to explore their three cuisines, all of them gorgeously heavy on grilled meats, herbs, fresh cheese, olives and Cezanne-worthy fruits and vegetables, she writes, You can begin to see similarities where political borders insist upon division and difference. Khan, who first fell in love with the region on a family trip as a kid, is a travel writer at heart, and every recipe is rooted in a real sense of place. A sheet pan pomegranate and sumac chicken comes from a Syrian doctor who runs a restaurant on the Greek island of Lesvos. A halloumi and produce-packed salad takes advantage of Cypruss magnificent bounty in the late summer. Fish kebabs find her crossing borders and using Turkish fish marinade alongside a garlicky Greek potato sauce. And in a year without travel, its hard not to pore over the photography that breaks up the standard recipe shots: sunlit bushels of spices, olives, grapes, pomegranates spilling over at markets; streetscapes in Istanbul and Athens; small towns set against the dramatic blue Mediterranean.



Rice marched across the South in the hands of the enslaved and enslavers.

On the subject of recipes that connect  in the introduction to RICE (University of North Carolina, 120 pp., $20), Michael W. Twitty, a culinary historian, recalls a favorite childhood dish: his Alabama-born grandmothers red rice, a spicy tomato-based pilau, which also serves as a tidy metaphor for the whole book. If you followed that one dish back through all of the mamas and grandmas that came before her, he writes, you would go overland from Alabama to South Carolina and then across the Atlantic, eventually landing in Sierra Leone, where jollof rice, an antecedent of red rice, is still a staple of West African cuisine.

Twittys slim, jampacked volume is part of Savor the South, a series dedicated to recognizing the history of the regions rich food landscape (see also: Okra, Ham, Pecans and Peaches), and here, he highlights the various ways rice marched across the South in the hands of the enslaved and enslavers. He has a gift for presenting the historical in a manner that is both accessible and personal. A recipe for Limpin Susan, the okra-and-rice staple from the shores of West Africa to the shores of the American South, reads like just the thing to eat for a Tuesday night family dinner; a recipe for the Afro-Creole dish jambalaya is presented by a fellow chef, Wanda Blake, in three short paragraphs; and Twitty himself shares his recipe for groundnut (peanut) stew, made all the more tantalizing by the way it recalls his first trip to West Africa.



Youll need to shop for things like 62 cinder blocks and seven lengths of rebar.

Fast-forward to the modern-day American South, where fans who line up for the pulled pork on white bread at Rodney Scotts Whole Hog BBQ, a Charleston restaurant that became iconic practically on the day it opened its doors, will be delighted to know about this latest launch: RODNEY SCOTTS WORLD OF BBQ: Every Day Is a Good Day (Clarkson Potter, 224 pp., $29.99), written with Lolis Eric Elie. But whether youve eaten at one of Scotts restaurants or not (there are now three locations), the book will deliver.

There are, of course, the old-school no-frills classics  with surprisingly short ingredient lists  like potato salad with Dukes mayo and boiled eggs, fried chicken, wings, smoked turkey breast, hush puppies and cornbread with honey butter. What makes this book not the one-note, just-in-time-for-Fathers-Day grilling primer is the memoir section in the front where Scott, a James Beard Award-winning chef and pitmaster, describes growing up in Hemingway, S.C. Cooking his first whole hog when he was just 11, Scott learned from the hard-driving tutelage of his parents, whose m.o. was, When youre old enough to walk, youre old enough to work.

You cant boil those years down into a quick conversation, he writes, and what follows is a drill-down on every part of the process of barbecue, from building the pit (a different kind of recipe; youll need to shop for things like 62 cinder blocks and seven lengths of rebar) to constructing burn barrels and choosing the right wood. Only after that will you learn how to cook the whole hog. For a certain kind of reader, this is at the very far end of the aspirational spectrum, but even so, theres value in knowing you wont look at that pulled pork sandwich order the same way ever again.



Francois is really just a hippie at heart who wants to spread the love through cake.

For people who think nothing of pulling out a blowtorch as they bake, there is no better Mothers Day or Fathers Day gift than ZOE BAKES CAKES: Everything You Need to Know to Make Your Favorite Layers, Bundts, Loaves, and More (Ten Speed Press, 272 pp., $30), by Zoe Francois, the Minneapolis-based pastry chef and teacher whose hypnotically photographed confections have gained her an enormous following on Instagram. Even the most novice bake-o-phobe will be unable to resist flagging every page with a note that says This one! This one for my birthday! before handing it off to someone else in the house to tackle. Fans will be happy to get a little how-to on all the Zoe signatures: those distinctly graphic, cross-sectioned loaves and cupcakes with cloudlike piles of frostings and whipped cream; her spiky blowtorched (natch) meringues; cakes topped with fresh flowers or rimmed in fences made of candied carrots.
The good news is that most worst predictions didnt happen. After initially expecting a $54 billion COVID-caused revenue shortfall last winter, California now anticipates a $15 billion surplus. New York, which sounded alarm bells for months about a $15 billion revenue shortfall, ended up with a tax revenue shortfall of roughly $513 million, much smaller than anticipated. By February 2021, it had become clear that at least 29 states were on course to take in as much tax revenue if not more in the year since the pandemic began as they had in the year before it started.
Twitter vs. the Modi government

Twitter said on Thursday that it had received a notice of noncompliance with Indias restrictive tech laws, after officials asked the site to remove content critical of the governments handling of the pandemic.

Under Indian law, Twitters India executives could face up to seven years in prison. The company pushed back against Indias efforts to censor speech, criticizing what it called intimidation tactics by the police.

It came days after antiterrorism police officers paid an evening visit to the companys New Delhi offices. They brought a notice criticizing disinformation labels that had been placed on a series of posts by senior officials with the B.J.P., Modis political party.

Quotable: Right now, we are concerned by recent events regarding our employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people we serve, the statement read.
Suddenly, talk of the Wuhan lab-leak theory seems to be everywhere.

President Biden yesterday called on U.S. intelligence officials to redouble their efforts to determine the origin of Covid-19 and figure out whether the virus that causes it accidentally leaked from a Chinese laboratory. Major publications and social media have recently been filled with discussion of the subject.

Today, we offer an explainer.

What are the basics?

The origin of the virus remains unclear. Many scientists have long believed that the most likely explanation is that it jumped from an animal to a person, possibly at a food market in Wuhan, China, in late 2019. Animal-to human transmission  known as zoonotic spillover  is a common origin story for viruses, including Ebola and some bird flus.

But some scientists have pointed to another possibility: that it escaped from the Wuhan Institute of Virology. As in other laboratories, researchers there sometimes modify viruses, to understand and treat them.

It is most likely that this is a virus that arose naturally, but we cannot exclude the possibility of some kind of a lab accident, Dr. Francis Collins, the director of the National Institutes of Health, told senators yesterday.
Sarah Cavey, a real estate agent in Denver, was thrilled last fall when Colorado introduced an app to warn people of possible coronavirus exposures.

Based on software from Apple and Google, the states smartphone app uses Bluetooth signals to detect users who come into close contact. If a user later tests positive, the person can anonymously notify other app users whom the person may have crossed paths with in restaurants, on trains or elsewhere.

Ms. Cavey immediately downloaded the app. But after testing positive for the virus in February, she was unable to get the special verification code she needed from the state to warn others, she said, even after calling Colorados health department three times.

They advertise this app to make people feel good, Ms. Cavey said, adding that she had since deleted the app, called CO Exposure Notifications, in frustration. But its not really doing anything.
The little Engine 

Exxon Mobil suffered a stunning loss at its annual shareholder meeting yesterday, as a small new activist investor focused on climate change, Engine No. 1, won at least two seats on its 12-member board. To corporate America, the upset was a clear sign that company boards and leaders need to pay attention to environmental, social and governance issues (known as E.S.G.)  or suffer rebukes.

A big splash for a tiny fund. Exxon was the first activist campaign for Engine No. 1, which was founded last year by the energy and tech investor Chris James. Its head of active engagement is Charlie Penner, a veteran hedge fund executive who helped lead campaigns against companies like Apple while at Jana Partners.

It was a victory long in the making. Engine No. 1 began agitating against the oil giant in December, calling on the company to diversify away from fossil fuels and reduce its carbon emissions. But it began work on the campaign last March, courting large investors like public pension funds that held far larger stakes in Exxon, and thus had more sway. Thats how it parlayed a stake of just 0.02 percent into seats on the oil giants board  a truly remarkable feat. Exxons shares rose 1.2 percent yesterday.

Sources with knowledge of the matter told DealBook that the fund was betting on a confluence of events, including longstanding investor dissatisfaction with Exxons corporate governance and a growing appreciation on Wall Street for E.S.G.

In a note explaining why it backed three of Engine No. 1s board candidates, BlackRock  which owns nearly 7 percent of Exxon  said the companys directors need to further assess the companys strategy and board expertise against the possibility that demand for fossil fuels may decline rapidly in the coming decades.

Exxon largely played down Engine No. 1s concerns, and pressured the firm to drop its challenge after a much bigger hedge fund, D.E. Shaw, called off a campaign. But Engine No. 1 persisted, and also benefited from timing: It began its campaign while oil prices were still depressed by the pandemic. Had oil not rebounded in recent months, Engine No. 1 executives believe, all four of its directors might have been elected.

Big Oil is facing a reckoning. A Dutch court ruled yesterday that Royal Dutch Shell must speed up its efforts to cut its carbon emissions. And Chevron shareholders backed a proposal to compel the company to help customers reduce their own emissions.
Gap has long been among the biggest operators of mall stores in the country. But after the pandemic, it will have a much smaller presence in traditional indoor malls as it closes Gap and Banana Republic locations and bets on the expansion of its Old Navy and Athleta brands.

What we have accelerated now is the digital dominance of the business  our e-commerce business is about half of sales for the Gap brand, maybe even more in certain markets  and the restructuring away from real estate that has been obsoleted, Sonia Syngal, chief executive of Gap Inc., said in an interview on Thursday.

She added that only about 17 percent of the companys overall sales came from indoor malls in the first quarter.

Gap said on Thursday that its first-quarter sales rebounded 89 percent to $4 billion from a year earlier and rose 8 percent from the same period in 2019. It posted a net profit of $166 million, compared with a loss of nearly $1 billion a year earlier. The results were driven by surges at Old Navy and Athleta. Gap also raised its outlook for the year, calling for a sales increase in the low-to-mid 20 percent range, from an increase in the mid-to-high teens.
Even before the coronavirus hit, Mr. Modis government and the B.J.P. had taken increasingly strong steps to curb dissent in the country of 1.4 billion.

In February, Twitter blocked over 500 accounts and removed an unspecified number of others in India after the government accused those accounts of making inflammatory remarks about Mr. Modi in connection with protests by angry farmers. The farmers have been camping outside New Delhi for at least six months to protest agriculture laws.

Twitter had said earlier that it wouldnt take any action against accounts that belonged to media organizations, journalists, activists or politicians, and that it did not believe the orders to block those accounts were consistent with Indian law.

But on Thursday, the company acknowledged it withheld some unverified accounts in those categories from view in India, even though it believed the content to be legitimate free speech under Indian and international law. The company said last week that it was reopening its verification process to allow government officials, media organizations, journalists and activists to apply for a blue check mark, a marker of credibility online, a process that has been on hold since 2017.

In April, Mr. Modis government ordered Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to take down dozens of social media posts that were critical of its handling of the pandemic. The order was aimed at roughly 100 posts from opposition politicians and included calls for Mr. Modi to resign.

The new internet rules in India apply to a wide variety of media, including digital news outlets, streaming services like Netflix and Amazon, and social media platforms, giving the government sweeping powers to quickly take down articles, posts or any other material. It specifically requires social media companies to appoint Indian-based executives who could be held criminally liable for any violations, as well as create systems to trace and identify the first originator of posts or messages that the government deems offensive.

Under the regulations, announced in February, the social media companies were given a deadline, which was Tuesday, to name the executives who could be held liable.
In recent decades, the area in and around Pennsylvanias Lehigh Valley has evolved from its agricultural and manufacturing roots to also become a health care and higher education hub.

Now theres a new shift, The New York Timess Michael Corkery reports.

Huge warehouses are sprouting up like mushrooms along local highways, on country roads and in farm fields. The boom is being driven, in large part, by the astonishing growth of Amazon and other e-commerce retailers and the areas proximity to New York, the nations largest concentration of online shoppers, roughly 80 miles away.

But the warehouses are being built at such a dizzying pace that many residents worry the areas landscape, quality of life and long-term economic well-being are at risk.

E-commerce is fueling job growth, but the work is physically taxing, does not pay as well as manufacturing and could eventually be phased out by automation. Yet the warehouses are leaving a permanent mark. There are proposals to widen local roads to accommodate the thousands of additional trucks ferrying goods from the hulking structures.
WASHINGTON  The Biden administration on Thursday said it planned to revise a Trump-era rule that limited the ability of states and tribes to veto pipelines and other energy projects that could pollute their local waterways.

The Trump administration finalized the rule last June, saying that curbs on state authority were necessary because too many states had been using clean water laws to block pipelines, coal terminals and other fossil-fuel projects from going forward. Since then, 20 states and several tribes have challenged the rule in court, contending that the constraints could hamper their ability to safeguard their rivers and drinking water.

But under the Biden administration, the Environmental Protection Agency is now saying that it will move to bolster state authority. We have serious water challenges to address as a nation and, as E.P.A. administrator, I will not hesitate to correct decisions that weakened the authority of states and tribes to protect their waters, Michael S. Regan, who took over as head of the agency in March, said on Thursday.

Oil and gas industry groups, which had praised the earlier Trump-era rule, said they were wary of major changes.
To understand the path of wine in the 21st century, consider a bottle of Txakolina.

Twenty years ago, Txakolina was virtually unknown outside Spanish Basque Country, where it was the go-to wine with just about anything consumed at a table. Even in the rest of Spain, it was hard to find.

Now, people all over the world have a passing familiarity with this often mildly effervescent wine, even if they dont know how to pronounce it (chock-oh-LEE-nah).

Here at Wine School, where we have been exploring Txakolina over the last month, readers in Japan, Britain, Brazil, Italy, Switzerland and all over the United States weighed in with fond memories of a fizzy wine they once tasted in Basque Country and were delighted to be able to find closer to their homes.

This wine evolution, from local to global, has been repeated endlessly in the first part of this century. Whether gruner veltliner, assyrtiko, Jura or Etna, just to name a few examples beyond Txakolina, these wines have traveled a similar route to worldwide popularity.
As scientists find more animal coronaviruses, they can recognize more and more pieces of SARS-CoV-2 spread out among them. Researchers have also been able to reconstruct some of the evolutionary steps by which SARS-CoV-2 evolved into a potential human pathogen while it was still infecting animals.

This pattern is probably one thats been followed by many viruses that are now major burdens on human health. H.I.V., for example, most likely had its origin in the early 1900s, when hunters in West Africa got infected with viruses that infected chimpanzees and other primates.

But some scientists thought it was too soon to conclude something similar happened in the case of SARS-CoV-2. After all, the coronavirus first came to light in the city of Wuhan, home to the Wuhan Institute of Virology, where researchers study dozens of strains of coronaviruses collected in caves in southern China.

Still, that a top lab studying this family of viruses happens to be located in the same city where the epidemic emerged could very well be a coincidence. Wuhan is an urban center larger than New York City, with a steady flow of visitors from other parts of China. It also has many large markets dealing in wildlife brought from across China and beyond. When wild animals are kept in close quarters, viruses have an opportunity to jump from species to species, sometimes resulting in dangerous recombinations that can lead to new diseases.

That labs research began after another coronavirus led to the SARS epidemic in 2002. Researchers soon found relatives of that virus, called SARS-CoV, in bats, as well as civet cats, which are sold in Chinese markets. The discovery opened the eyes of scientists to all the animal coronaviruses with the potential of spilling over the species line and starting a new pandemic.

Virologists can take many measures to reduce the risk of getting infected with the viruses they study. But over the years, some accidents have happened. Researchers have gotten sick, and theyve infected others with their experimental viruses.

In 2004, for example, a researcher at the National Institute of Virology in Beijing got infected with the coronavirus that causes SARS. She passed it on to others, including her mother, who died from the infection.
I beat the ever-living f--- out of him, Master Trooper Chris Hollingsworth, one of the torturers, said in a later phone conversation obtained by the AP. Choked him and everything else trying to get him under control. We finally got him in handcuffs when a third man got there, and the son of a b---- was still fighting him, was still wrestling with him trying to hold him down. He was spitting blood everywhere and all of a sudden he just went limp.
3. What is meant by the sentence The destruction of property is only one piece of the financial devastation that the massacre wrought? Choose one statistic or quotation from the introduction that illustrates that point in a meaningful way.

II. The Marquee Block

4. Navigate down the 100 block in Greenwood, also known as the marquee block. What do you notice about the businesses and stores, as well as the professionals and entrepreneurs who lived and worked there? What stands out? How do you think residents or visitors might have felt walking down those streets?

III. A City Within a City

5. This section is titled A City Within a City. In what ways was Greenwood in 1921 a city within a larger city? How does the interactive illustrate the effects of the economic detour described by Hannibal B. Johnson, an author and the education chair for the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre Centennial Commission?

IV. The Massacre That Ended It All

6. According to the article, what was the event that mobilized the white mob? Then consider the larger context of racism at the time. Why might white Tulsans have targeted the community of Greenwood, where Black success embodied the American dream, with such brutality and violence?

7. How did you feel as you read this section that describes the massacre in detail? Did certain images or statistics stand out to you? Choose one number, phrase or quotation from this section that you found powerful.

V. What Was Lost

8. What happened to the survivors of the massacre? What was the impact on them emotionally and financially through property loss and racist policies? What support, if any, were they given?

9. What do the authors mean in writing, The final insult of the massacre came in the silence? In what ways is the silence an insult? Use examples from the article to support your answer. Why do you think this history is not more widely discussed? What are the repercussions of not sharing this history?
Thats part of the reason its interesting to be an actor, to look at characters who are putting that on and then ask yourself, OK, what is it that makes me do this? Its not that it takes the place of therapy  I would rather go to therapy than play a part  but over the last five years, Ive been asking myself a lot of questions about that charm offensive or ingenue idea in my own life. How do I try to smooth things over when I dont necessarily need to? And that has been helpful. Did that answer your question at all?

It did.

Look, thats me trying to people-please again.

How do you make Cruella a character you root for while also preserving whats sort of wicked about her?

Shes not sort of wicked, shes the most wicked! We dont quite get to a place where this woman is skinning puppies, but there is an exploration of what it means to be bad and what the difference is between that and being rebellious and thinking differently than everyone around you.

One of the ways she exults in that difference is through fashion.

Fashion is written off in some ways as frothy or frilly or not very important, but I think for a lot of people, it really is an act of self-expression that can make you feel more like yourself. Theres a real importance to getting dressed  and I dont mean highfalutin couture fashion, I mean getting dressed every day.

As a character, I think Estella has felt that from the very beginning: Thats her mode of self-expression when she didnt feel she was in control of her life. She changes who she is every time she gets dressed, and once I was stepping into that hair and that makeup and those clothes, that was the only way I could really feel like Cruella, because it feels pretty silly at your house to be working over and over on that Tallulah Bankhead laugh and voice without being fully Cruella.

When she faces off with the Baroness, Cruella chooses her look almost like shes donning a suit of armor. When you get dressed up for the real-life gauntlet that is the red carpet, is there a similar sense of preparing for battle?
Mildred Gillars was an American woman who propagandized for the Nazis on German state radio for much of World War II. While not as well known as her Pacific counterpart Tokyo Rose, she acquired enough of a cachet to be nicknamed Axis Sally by contemporary troops who werent buying what she was selling.

Directed by Michael Polish from a script by Polish, Vance Owen and Darryl Hicks, American Traitor: The Trial of Axis Sally, a fictionalized version of her story, was executive produced by Meadow Williams, who plays Gillars. The movie begins with her arrest in Germany after the war. Gillars is extradited to Washington and indicted on many counts of treason and conspiracy. Her case is dumped in the lap of the gruff lawyer James Laughlin, played, well, gruffly by Al Pacino.
On top of shelling out for rent and security deposits in New York Citys highly expensive rental market, many prospective tenants looking for an apartment must deal with another major cost: a broker fee.

That hefty fee, a one-time payment that is typically between 10 to 15 percent of the annual lease amount, is paid by the renter to the broker on the listing regardless of whether the broker helped the tenant find the unit and sign the lease. For a $2,500 per month apartment, for instance, the fee could be as high as $4,500.

Before renters receive keys to a new apartment, they will likely have to pay that fee on top of the first months rent and a security deposit, which is usually equal to one months rent. It all adds up to many thousands of dollars.

This week, New York State made clear in new guidance to the real estate industry that broker fees were legal, ensuring that in the digital era of virtual tours, a vestige of pre-internet listings would endure.
I feel like Im in the drivers seat when negotiating with landlords, said Ms. Resler, a co-founder of Sharks Pool Club, an online service and app where customers can book private rooms with pool tables. And how long can a market that favors the tenant last?

Many successful deals involve smaller storefronts and shorter time frames. Now it is not unusual for leases to offer spaces anywhere from six months to five years, considerably shorter than the 10 or 15 years offered before the pandemic.

In Ms. Reslers case, some landlords accepted smaller deposits, sums for just one or two months as opposed to the norm of four to six months, while another lease included a Covid pause clause, which would not penalize her if she couldnt pay rent in the case of another surge and shutdown.

Ms. Resler and her partners have been touring up to 15 spaces a week all over Manhattan. Her goal is to open about two or three spaces a month, and possibly to turn some of them into screening or card rooms for New Yorkers who are sick of their small apartments but want to socialize in a group. She is considering only move-in-ready spaces. If a landlord wont agree to fix things up before a lease signing, I move on.

As she said, shes in the drivers seat. For now.

So is Chirag Kulkarni, a co-founder and chief marketing officer of the Brooklyn-based Medly Pharmacy, which offers same-day prescription deliveries. He said that securing an affordable space in East Harlem felt like he was getting a buy one, get one free deal.

The pandemic almost doubled Medlys revenue, as people stayed indoors and the need for deliveries soared. Months after Mr. Kulkarni opened his headquarters in Bushwick, Medlys vice president of retail development found the space in East Harlem, which made expanding into Manhattan and points north a no-brainer, he said.

Larger retail spaces are sitting longer, according to Mr. Puopolo. Some fashion brands saw their ground-floor stores get looted and vandalized last summer and have inquired about second- or third-floor availabilities, Mr. Puopulo continued, surmising that some businesses are trying exclusivity as a new marketing tool.
For nearly a decade, New York City has struggled to help homeless people find apartments of their own, as rents hovered in the stratosphere and the number of people stuck in shelters surged past 60,000.

So on Thursday, the City Council took its most dramatic step in years to address the citys affordable housing crisis, voting overwhelmingly to expand a subsidy program in ways that could make apartments affordable to tens of thousands of people who are homeless or threatened with eviction.

It is my hope that this will give people an opportunity to have a solid roof over their heads for them and their families, City Councilman Stephen Levin, the bills main sponsor, said during the vote, adding that it would be an important bill in the lives of many New Yorkers.

The measure, in the nations largest and one of its most expensive cities, comes as a homelessness crisis is being pushed to the forefront around the country, with a growing encampment in Washington, D.C., blocks from the Federal Reserve and a spike in the homeless population predicted in Los Angeles. Homelessness nationwide was rising even before the pandemic, according to federal officials.
Federal prosecutors in Brooklyn have been investigating whether several Ukrainian officials helped orchestrate a wide-ranging plan to meddle in the 2020 presidential campaign, including using Rudolph W. Giuliani to spread their misleading claims about President Biden and tilt the election in Donald J. Trumps favor, according to people with knowledge of the matter.

The criminal investigation, which began during the final months of the Trump administration and has not been previously reported, underscores the federal governments increasingly aggressive approach toward rooting out foreign interference in American electoral politics. Much of that effort is focused on Russian intelligence, which has suspected ties to at least one of the Ukrainians now under investigation.

The investigation is unfolding separately from a long-running federal inquiry in Manhattan that is aimed at Mr. Giuliani. While the two investigations have a similar cast of characters and overlap in some ways, Mr. Giuliani is not a subject of the Brooklyn investigation, the people said.

Instead, the Brooklyn prosecutors, along with the F.B.I., are focused on current and former Ukrainian officials suspected of trying to influence the election by spreading unsubstantiated claims of corruption about Mr. Biden through a number of channels, including Mr. Giuliani, Mr. Trumps personal lawyer at the time. It is unclear whether the Brooklyn prosecutors will ultimately charge any of the Ukrainians.
Thats just one episode; no wonder the inquiry holds the attention of many Brazilians. So far, we have been treated to testimony from three former health ministers  one of them had major issues with his mask, inspiring countless memes  as well as the head of Brazils federal health regulator, the former foreign minister, the former communications director and the regional manager of the pharmaceutical company Pfizer.

The upshot of their accounts is obvious, yet still totally outrageous: President Jair Bolsonaro apparently intended to lead the country to herd immunity by natural infection, whatever the consequences. That means  assuming a fatality rate of around 1 percent and taking 70 percent infection as a tentative threshold for herd immunity  that Mr. Bolsonaro effectively planned for at least 1.4 million deaths in Brazil. From his perspective, the 450,000 Brazilians already killed by Covid-19 must look like a job not even half-done.

Spelled out this way, the effort looks shocking. But to Brazilians living under Mr. Bolsonaros rule its hardly surprising. After all, the president seemed to do everything he could to facilitate the spread of the virus. He has spent the last year speaking and acting against all scientifically proven measures to curb the spread of the virus. Social distancing, he said, was for idiots. Masks were fiction. And vaccines can turn you into a crocodile.

Then there was the antimalarial drug hydroxychloroquine, which Mr. Bolsonaro promoted as an early treatment and miracle cure for Covid-19  despite all scientific evidence to the contrary and the express advice of two former health ministers. During the inquiry, two different witnesses somberly confirmed that they had seen the draft of a presidential decree stipulating that the drugs leaflet should be changed to include its use against Covid-19.

It gets worse. According to both Mr. Wajngarten and Carlos Murillo, the regional manager of Pfizer, the pharmaceutical company repeatedly offered to sell its Covid-19 vaccine to Brazils government between August and November last year  but got no answer at all. (Perhaps the health ministry had more important things to do, like learning how to properly use masks.) Considering that Brazil was one of the first countries to be approached by the company, a quick response would have secured Brazilians as many as 1.5 million doses at the end of 2020, with 17 million more in the first half of 2021.
Unlike other religious leaders, members of the Catholic clergy, as an all-male, celibate group, do not have wives or daughters to give them a sense of womens experience. Yet their pervasive theology shapes policies that cause women untold suffering. Its the basis for the hierarchys demand that a woman be forced to carry a pregnancy to term, even one that resulted from rape or one that threatens her life. Its also the specter that makes women forgo hysterectomies because, we are told, its better to endure suffering than lose the possibility of giving birth. Women, in other words, are reduced to vessels, one in which the potential, theoretical life that might be is privileged over the living, breathing person at risk.

But Catholics should ask themselves whether the churchs anti-abortion fight is less about babies and more about controlling womens fertility and, with that, womens freedom. Bishops have notably little to say about methods to control male sexuality. They never turn vasectomies into a culture war issue. Though Catholic health care plans take pains to excise contraceptives from their coverage, treatments for male impotence are not prohibited, even though there is no certainty that men will use those drugs with their wives in order to procreate  the only kind of sex that the church condones.

Understanding the motivations behind these doctrines is important, even for the unchurched, because giving pregnant people the legal right to have control and agency over their bodies translates to other aspects of their lives, namely the capacity to claim political, economic and social autonomy.

Virulent anti-abortion rhetoric from on high has kept the majority of pro-choice Catholics silent  including the president of the United States. Now that the Supreme Court, with its six Catholic justices (five of whom espouse extremely conservative religious views), has decided to take up a case that is a direct challenge to Roe v. Wade, there has never been a more urgent moment to speak out boldly as people of faith who support the right to access abortion.

We must reject the silencing and stigma that church leaders use to seal off any questioning, dialogue or education around this issue. Catholics, in particular, must push through our conditioned discomfort. Members of a privileged, patriarchal caste of religious leaders are the only ones who benefit when we are afraid to say the word abortion in our affirmation of reproductive rights.

When my pathology report came back after my surgery, I discovered that my perfectly healthy uterus was in fact riddled with endometriosis and cysts. The initial tests the doctor conducted were unable to detect what I knew instinctively: A hysterectomy was a necessary and potentially lifesaving operation. My prayers were answered through medical intervention.

Im grateful the pangs of religious guilt did not keep me from a procedure that has transformed my health and my quality of life. But I realized that if someone like me, who has made a career out of boldly proclaiming my dissent from church doctrines on sexuality and reproduction, can still be susceptible to its manipulations, who among us isnt?

Jamie L. Manson is the president of Catholics for Choice and has a masters in divinity.
BEIJIGN, May 27 -- "We express strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition to the recent provocative actions on Taiwan-related issues by Australia," said a Chinese defense spokesperson at a regular press conference on Thursday.

Senior Colonel Tan Kefei, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense (MND), made the remarks when asked to comment on the speeches speculating about war over Taiwan by some Australian politicians.

There is only one China in the world, and Taiwan is an integral part of China. Adherence to the one-China principle is the common consensus of the international community. Recently, the Australian side has taken a series of provocative actions, and some people have even incited confrontation and exaggerated the threat of war on Taiwan-related issues. Such actions are incredibly irresponsible, Tan said.

Currently, China-Australia relations are faced with serious difficulties, and the responsibility lies squarely with the Australian side. We hope the Australian side will not go further down the wrong path and can do more things conducive to the development of relations between the two countries and the two militaries, Tan added.
The comedian isnt eligible for release until Sept. 25 at the earliest, but the board starts interviewing candidates three to five months in advance and spoke to Cosby by video conference on May 7, board spokeswoman Laura Treaster told the Daily News on Thursday.
Hamas is a radical Islamic terror organization that is fighting not to establish a Palestinian state but against the existence of Jewish infidels living in Israel.

In 2006 the so-called Quartet  the United States, the United Nations, the European Union and Russia  set forward parameters for Hamas that included acceptance of previous peace agreements between Israel and the Palestinians, commitment to nonviolence and recognition of Israel. Hamas refused.

These parameters were published after Israel withdrew from the Gaza Strip, uprooted the settlements and pulled out its military forces, and Hamas won the Palestinian elections. Had Hamas adopted these principles, the lives of the residents of the Gaza Strip might today look different, and Gaza could flourish. But for Hamas, ending the conflict is something to which it will never agree.

Without accepting these conditions, theres no hope for peace with Hamas, therefore we cannot, and should not, give it legitimacy.

When one looks at any conflict from afar, it is only natural to identify with the weaker side. But there is no doubt, as President Biden rightfully expressed, that a country has the right to defend itself. In this case, we must defend ourselves against terror by a group that does not accept our very existence. Criticizing any government policy is legitimate (I myself was a political opponent of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu), but denying the right of a country to defend its citizens is not.

We must cooperate and support everything that strengthens pragmatism and weakens extremists. This seems so obvious as to appear basic. And yet the U.S.-Israeli policy in the past few years was completely the opposite. The Trump administration supported efforts of the Israeli government to move toward annexation of land. Had all those efforts come to pass, we would have reached the point of no return. The land would no longer be divisible, and the political future of two states would have been closed to us forever. Further, this policy weakened and delegitimized the Palestinian Authority and included cutting off financial support.

Indeed, the check on rampant expansion came from what would once have been a fantastical source: The Gulf states condition for normalization with Israel, through the Abraham Accords, was that Israel take annexation off the table. With Mr. Bidens inauguration in January, the vision of a two-state solution supported by the United States has made a comeback. The statements of Mr. Biden and his secretary of state, Antony Blinken, send a message of hope to the pragmatic forces in the region.
To the Editor:

Re The Wrong Way to Distribute Vaccines, by Ezekiel J. Emanuel and Govind Persad (Opinion guest essay, May 25):

The suggestion that it is unethical to allocate vaccines equitably across all nations when some countries are faring worse against the ravages of Covid-19 than others misses one crucial fact: Vaccines are at their most effective when preventing surges of the virus, not combating them once they have taken hold.

When outbreaks occur, the critical tools available to governments are of the nonpharmaceutical variety, such as lockdowns, distancing and mask wearing. Vaccines are also a part of the solution, but with up to three months needed for a two-dose Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccination, followed by a two-week wait in order to achieve full protection, they are not an acute intervention even if there are enough to go around.

We dont know where the next surge will hit or when the next variant will emerge, which is why Covaxs goal to protect the most vulnerable everywhere is, at this stage of the pandemic, the right thing to do. This not only means maximizing the chances of survival for the health workers, elderly and vulnerable whose lives are most at risk, but also minimizing the chances that new, more dangerous variants will come along.

The real issue with vaccines today is not how to divvy up a small slice of the pie for less wealthy nations but how to make their slice bigger, which is why governments and manufacturers of vaccines must do everything in their power to get as many doses as possible to Covax now.

Seth Berkley

Soumya Swaminathan

Richard Hatchett

Dr. Berkley is chief executive of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. Dr. Swaminathan is chief scientist of the World Health Organization. Dr. Hatchett is chief executive of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations. Their organizations co-lead Covax.
Now, members of the LISA Study Team, after a grueling smackdown of several hundred possibilities, have compiled a list of their own 10 favorites (in no particular order): cacophony, graveyard, horde, perforation, swarm, colloquium, disaster, sieve, brood and doom.

There were strong feelings about the results, said Dr. Holley-Bockelmann, who lamented that a few of her own favorites  convergence, choir and void  hadnt made the cut.

It all means nothing and everything.

Anybody who has ever been tormented in a schoolyard or a locker room knows that names, and nicknames, matter. I have never outgrown or outrun Dennis the Menace, and in college the similarity of my last name to the word ovary provoked much mirth around the fraternity house. Part of Donald Trumps success on the campaign trail owed to his inimitable way of branding his opponents: Crooked Hillary, Lyin Ted, Low-Energy Jeb.

Names matter in science, too. Twenty years ago the astronomical community tore itself apart over the definition of the word planet, at least as it refers to bodies in our solar system. In the end, by an argument few understand, Pluto was demoted to the status of a dwarf planet.

But the name black hole is one of the great branding successes of modern science. Black holes are objects or realms in space-time where gravity is so great that not even light can escape. Their existence was effectively predicted in 1916, when the German physicist and astronomer Karl Schwarzschild solved Albert Einsteins equations of the general theory of relativity for a single point mass, a star.
The disruptive power of history became clear to me last summer, when my book Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation was published. The book traces how a militant ideal of white Christian manhood came to pervade evangelical popular culture in America. For the last 75 years, heroic ideals inspired by mythical warriors, soldiers and cowboys  many of them portrayed onscreen by men like John Wayne, and Mel Gibson in the movie Braveheart  transformed the faith itself, replacing core biblical teachings such as loving ones neighbors and ones enemies with a militant battle cry.

Within days after my book was released, I began receiving letters and messages from readers. Nearly a year later, they still flood my inbox, several a day, most written by evangelicals. I had been warned to brace myself for vicious trolling, but this wasnt hate mail. Almost every message contained some version of the same realization: This is the story of my life. Thank you for helping me to see.

To prove their point, readers narrated their life stories in vivid detail: They had been indoctrinated into family-values evangelicalism by listening to James Dobsons Focus on the Family radio broadcast every day. They had shopped at Christian bookstores and attended Promise Keepers rallies as part of the evangelical mens movement. They had embraced the teachings of purity culture and structured their own marriages around male authority and female submission. They had proudly voted for Ronald Reagan and attended weekend warrior boot camps sponsored by their churches.

Yet despite their intimate acquaintance with the events I charted, most readers also expressed astonishment upon seeing for the first time the contours of the world they had inhabited much of their lives. As one man explained, I bumped into so many of these trees, but I never saw the forest. The emotional intensity of their responses and the frequency with which writers expressed bewilderment gave me pause.

While evangelicals are not alone in preferring flattering accounts of their own past, they have clung to these narratives for distinctly evangelical reasons. Not long ago, I gave an interview about my book to a Christian radio station. Both hosts were respectful and engaging, but one was clearly more skeptical than the other. Only after we had gone off the air did he ask the question that had been troubling him. Knowing that I was a Christian, he pressed me on how I thought anyone would want to become a Christian after reading my book.

The question didnt surprise me. Id weighed a similar concern when Id first embarked on the project. But history isnt a marketing campaign to win converts. More important, my own research into the history of evangelicalism made clear to me the perils of covering up harsh truths in the interest of protecting the brand  or, in the words of evangelicals themselves, the witness of the church.
Carrington Moore never liked the idea of online dating. In the summer of 2014, though, joining Match all of a sudden became a professional obligation.

Mr. Moore, 34, of Cambridge, Mass., was starting a business, Go Break Bread, with a pair of friends that year. Liftoff of the project, meant to be like Meetup except for building religious communities online, depended on them getting a grip on how algorithms work. We had figured out that dating apps were the best place to research algorithms, but one of my friends was in a relationship, and the other one was like, Im married, he said. Mr. Moore, being single, was singled out. They were like, Carrington, youve got to do it.

But his mission to research, and research only, was thwarted instantly when Schnelle Shelbys picture popped up. Schnelle came up wearing this zebra print dress, he said. She seemed really interesting and really pretty. I stalked her for like 30 minutes.
In early 2020, Eric Huang, who had formerly worked as a sous chef at Eleven Madison Park in Manhattan, began using the deep fryers at his uncles restaurant, Peking House in Queens, which closed during the shutdown, to make spicy chile fried chicken that he initially sold through his Instagram account. The venture, which he called Pecking House, proved wildly popular and enabled Huang to help his uncle with rent. (Orders, for either delivery or takeout, are now placed through a website.) In August 2020, the chef Anthony Strong closed his San Francisco restaurant Prairie and began cooking multicourse dinners in his Volkswagen camper van turned kitchen, which he named Stella, offering personalized dining experiences that can be booked through his website and enjoyed at San Franciscos Ferry Building or in the diners own driveway. And in Detroit, the chefs Chi Walker and Nik Renee Cole, who previously hosted pop-up dinners around the city as Fried Chicken and Caviar, converted their business into a takeout operation, allowing guests to place orders on their website for a menu that focuses, as the companys name suggests, on crispy fried chicken and briny caviar, with the option to add a split of champagne.

These foods are all designed to be eaten privately, and safely, at home. But in some ways, the technology used to order them creates a more direct link between creator and consumer than typically exists in a physical restaurant setting, highlighting the parties interdependence, as well as the hospitality industrys ability to meet the most basic of universal needs  to be nourished, to survive.

While using technology in this way might be new, the underlying model is, in fact, older than it might seem: it echoes the informal economies that communities of color, in particular, have long relied on to generate funds for local causes or supplement household incomes. Consider the curry cue, a time-honored West Indian tradition in which plates of home-cooked curry are sold via orders placed by phone, and the proceeds are used by dance groups to buy carnival costumes. Or the bags of golden brown, crusty churros handed over to commuters in exchange for a couple of dollars on subway platforms. Or fish fries, barbecues and spaghetti or pancake dinners hosted by local cooks in support of churches, schools or scout troops. As Kim says, these models have existed outside of the government and typically been used by Black, brown and immigrant communities, and we have to be careful about glamorizing that. Its about survival.

For many chefs, realigning their menu to meet the requirements of their local community has permanently changed the way they think about their work. Before the pandemic, the Michelin-starred Harbor House Inn, in the picturesque community of Elk on Californias northern coast, typically welcomed vacationers, but when travel ground to a halt last year, it forced the chef, Matt Kammerer, to reconsider the role of the business. Our town only has 250 people in it, so we had to shift our mind-set of hospitality and think about how to nourish people, he says. His team began offering dinners, ordered via the restaurants website or over the phone, for around $18 each  far less than the $220, excluding tax and gratuity, that patrons used to pay for the tasting menu  that were available for takeout or for free delivery to anywhere within a 45-minute drive. The community was really grateful for the support, Kammerer says. Its one of the good things that grew out of the last year.
No one is going to mythologize my life, the playwright and filmmaker Kathleen Collins said in 1984 to a group of film students at Howard University. No one is going to refuse me the right to explore my experiences of life as normal experiences.

Collinss insistence on portraying the ordinariness of African American womens lives rather than reproducing the Hollywood narratives that pathologized or mythologized them is resonating with a new generation of Black women artists who have recently discovered Collins and her work. Part of what makes Collinss writing so appealing is her attention to the complex internal struggles and external journeys, of what Elizabeth Alexander calls those Bohemian Black women who often work as artists and academics, and have a robust intellectual life. Because she renders them with such care and imbues them with such vulnerability, her characters have heightened insights and are aware that they are both liberated and alienated by their knowledge of how others see and stereotype them.

Such rich psychological portraits of Black women are what originally drew Afrofemononomy, a group of Black femme theater artists, to Collinss plays. In addition to adapting that Howard University speech into a monologue, they are also performing Begin the Beguine, a quartet of Collinss one-acts that have never been produced before.
President Biden said Thursday he expected to release the results of an intelligence report on the origins of the coronavirus pandemic, even as administration officials said the inquiry was likely to extend beyond the initial 90-day deadline.

Mr. Biden on Wednesday announced that he had ordered the intelligence community to undertake a renewed examination of where the coronavirus came from and said that some intelligence agencies believe it was most likely created naturally, while at least one other favored the theory that it leaked accidentally from a lab in China.

Just before boarding Air Force One for a trip to Ohio, Mr. Biden was asked whether he planned to release the intelligence report on the origins of the coronavirus. Yes, Mr. Biden told reporters, unless theres something Im unaware of.

In a statement on Thursday, Amanda J. Schoch, the spokeswoman for the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, said the intelligence agencies had come together around the two likely scenarios, but there are so far no high-confidence assessments of the virus origins.
The Hong Kong police, citing the pandemic, blocked events honoring the anniversary of the Tiananmen protests.

Cases at U.S. colleges have plummeted as vaccines roll out and semesters end.

The F.D.A. authorized another antibody treatment for high-risk Covid patients.

Get the latest updates here, as well as maps and a vaccine tracker.

The lab leak theory

In the still-early process of investigating the origins of the novel coronavirus, the two most vocal poles of the argument are natural spillover vs. laboratory leak. Virologists still largely lean toward spillover, but the lab leak theory is now getting a lot of attention.

The natural spillover theory hypothesizes that an infected animal, like a bat, spread the virus to humans outside of a lab. Viruses, including coronaviruses, follow this path on a regular basis.

The lab leak theory speculates that Chinese researchers working at a laboratory in Wuhan isolated the virus, which then infected a worker. Such accidents have happened. The theory has been in the news recently because scientists who were once skeptical of the idea have expressed more openness to it.

While the debate over the lab leak theory is shifting, my colleague Carl Zimmer told me that the scientific evidence hasnt changed.
A group of archaeologists discovered this 3,300 year old claw of the now-extinct bird, Moa, with flesh and muscles still attached to it, tweeted Artifacts Hubs Museum Archive feed, along with a photo of a furry claw on Monday.
Howard University will name its newly re-established College of Fine Arts in honor of the actor and alumnus Chadwick Boseman, university officials said on Wednesday.

Before his death last year, Mr. Boseman had expressed his support for re-establishing the College of Fine Arts, Wayne A.I. Frederick, the president of Howard University, said in a news release.

Chadwicks love for Howard University was sincere, and although he did not live to see those plans through to fruition, it is my honor to ensure his legacy lives on through the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts with the support of his wife and the Chadwick Boseman Foundation, Mr. Frederick said.

He added that Robert A. Iger, the Walt Disney Companys executive chairman, would lead fund-raising efforts for a new facility. Mr. Frederick said Mr. Iger had volunteered to lead the fund-raising effort to build a state-of-the-art facility and endowment for the college.
Kay Tobin Lahusen, a prominent gay rights activist whose photographs documented the movements earliest days and depicted lesbians who were out when they were virtually absent from popular culture, died on Wednesday in West Chester, Pa. She was 91.

Her death in a hospital was confirmed by Malcolm Lazin, a longtime friend and the executive director of the Equality Forum, an L.G.B.T.Q. civil rights group.

Ms. Lahusen and her longtime partner, Barbara Gittings, were at the forefront of the lesbian rights movement, determined to make whom they loved a source of pride rather than shame.

They were early members of the Daughters of Bilitis, the first national lesbian organization, and soon spoke out about their sexuality and their demands for equality at a time when gay rights groups were less vocal. In the 1960s, they helped organize protests at a National Council of Churches meeting, the Pentagon and the White House well before the Stonewall uprising in Greenwich Village in 1969, a pivotal event for the gay rights movement.
On a January night in 1982, Alan Lee Phillips was found shivering in his pickup, stuck in a snowdrift on a treacherous mountain pass in central Colorado.

A rescue worker tracked him down after Mr. Phillips, then 30, used his headlights to blink the Morse code signal for SOS and caught the attention of a passenger on a plane flying overhead. Asked what he had been thinking, taking such a dangerous road in subzero temperatures, Mr. Phillips, looking dazed, said he was coming back from a bar, according to the police.

You find out how lonely it is really quick, Mr. Phillips later said, according to a newspaper article from the time. I thought about walking to a ski area nearby, and went about 200 yards and thought, No way. It was too cold.

Nearly 40 years later, the police now say they know where Mr. Phillips was really coming from that night, and what might have caused him to take the perilous route. The authorities say he had just shot two young women and left them to die near the mountain town of Breckenridge.
State legislatures have introduced more than 500 restrictions on abortion over the past four months, a huge increase from previous years. The Supreme Court plans to take up a case that could weaken or even overturn the constitutional right to abortion enshrined nearly a half-century ago in Roe v. Wade.

And as reproductive rights advocates sound alarms about what they see as an existential threat to abortion rights, many worry that the leader they helped elect is not meeting the moment.

Despite the urgency felt by much of his party, President Biden has said little about abortion publicly while in office. In fact, he hasnt said the word itself  an avoidance so noticeable that one advocacy group has created a website tracking his reluctance, DidBidenSayAbortionYet.org.

Many activists fear that Mr. Bidens personal discomfort with the issue is keeping him from leading the Democratic Party into a more offensive position on abortion rights, both through more aggressive policymaking and leveraging the agenda-setting power of the presidency.
One of the biggest fights of his career came in 1985, when Mr. Biden, then the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee, led a bipartisan effort to stop the nomination of William Bradford Reynolds, then the chief of the Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department under President Ronald Reagan, to become associate attorney general.

In televised hearings, Mr. Biden targeted Mr. Reynoldss oversight of a redistricting effort in Louisiana that split a majority Black district around New Orleans in two, a move that kept Black voters in the minority. During one hearing, Mr. Biden pointed out that Mr. Reynolds had been aware that an official involved in the redistricting effort had repeatedly used a racial slur.

In a rebuke of the Reagan administrations track record on civil rights, two Republicans from the Judiciary Committee voted with Democrats to oppose Mr. Reynoldss nomination.

A year later, Mr. Biden opposed the nomination of Jeff Sessions for a federal judgeship in Alabama. Mr. Bidens objections stemmed, in large part, from comments that were widely criticized as racist, but also from Mr. Sessionss past prosecution of three Black people who were later acquitted of voting fraud charges. Faced with a split committee vote, the White House later pulled Mr. Sessionss nomination.

By 1987, Mr. Biden had sharpened his reputation as a moderate who could win over Republicans on the grounds of what one former Senate aide called an ability to appeal to their better angels on civil rights matters.

That year, Mr. Biden  then in the midst of his first presidential campaign  led yet another effort to defeat a Reagan-era nominee: Robert H. Bork, whom the president had chosen for the Supreme Court. Alarmed by Mr. Borks past criticism of rulings on the rights of African Americans and women, Mr. Biden by that time had a well-honed playbook: He approached moderate Republicans, including Senator John W. Warner of Virginia, who could also help widen the margins on the final vote.

We already had Bork beat, Mark Gitenstein, a close friend of Mr. Bidens and a former Senate aide, told The New York Times in 2019. But Biden really wanted to get Warner because he had such stature.
It is not clear whether Mr. Biden and other Democrats in Congress will embrace the push, given that Democratic leaders have been focused on a competing effort to make permanent a temporary expansion of health subsidies under the Affordable Care Act that was included in the stimulus law. That proposal has widespread support, including from hospitals, which want to be paid the higher private insurance rates, and insurers, which want more people buy their products. Any effort to expand Medicare is likely to be met with resistance from those same groups.

But Ms. Jayapal argued that the two health care proposals were compatible. She said that negotiating lower drug prices could generate enough money to pay for the changes to the Affordable Care Act as well. If not, there are lots of revenue raisers that are possible and necessary, she said.

The Medicare proposals have proved popular among the so-called frontline Democrats  those who represent conservative-leaning districts  with more than a dozen signed on to the effort, underscoring its cross-party appeal.

After meeting with White House officials on the issue, Mr. Neguse argued that Democrats could go even further and lower the Medicare eligibility age to 55 to cover more than 40 million additional people.

Many of our nations seniors are unable to receive care for their ailments because Medicare benefits are not as a broad as they should be, he said.

The Democrats say at least 75 percent of Medicare beneficiaries who need a hearing aid do not have one and much of the country has low rates of visiting the dentist or getting eye exams.

Mr. Golden said that when he talked to voters, he repeatedly heard that the change would help residents in his district.
The former speaker tempered his criticism by avoiding any mention of Mr. Trump by name  except to say that the former presidents brand of populism, when tethered to conservative principles, had led to economic growth, and to credit him with bringing new voters to the party.

Mr. Trump responded on Friday morning with a lengthy statement calling Mr. Ryan a curse to the Republican Party, adding that he has no clue as to what needs to be done for our Country, was a weak and ineffective leader, and spends all of his time fighting Republicans as opposed to Democrats who are destroying our Country.

Mr. Ryan, the 2012 Republican vice-presidential nominee, left behind his 20-year career in Congress in 2019. In his role as speaker, he kowtowed to Mr. Trump at first, and later edged away from him, publicly breaking with the former president only after leaving office.

Since then, he has taken on roles as a visiting professor at the University of Notre Dame; a fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, the conservative think tank; and a board member of the Fox Corporation.

Mr. Ryans political re-emergence, and his relatively gentle warning of the dangers of a party crafted in Mr. Trumps image, came as the former president has said he plans to return to the campaign trail this summer with rallies for Republican House and Senate candidates supportive of his agenda and his election falsehoods. Mr. Trump is also still hinting at a potential presidential run in 2024.
As hopes fade for a bipartisan inquiry into the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, its increasingly clear that the Republican base remains in thrall to the web of untruths spun by Donald J. Trump  and perhaps even more outlandish lies, beyond those of the former presidents making.

A federal judge warned in an opinion yesterday that Mr. Trumps insistence on the big lie  that the November election was stolen from him  still posed a serious threat. Presiding over the case of a man accused of storming Congress on Jan. 6, Judge Amy Berman Jackson of the United States District Court in Washington wrote: The steady drumbeat that inspired defendant to take up arms has not faded away. Six months later, the canard that the election was stolen is being repeated daily on major news outlets and from the corridors of power in state and federal government, not to mention in the near-daily fulminations of the former president.

But its not just the notion that the election was stolen that has caught on with the former presidents supporters. QAnon, an outlandish and ever-evolving conspiracy theory spread by some of Mr. Trumps most ardent followers, has significant traction with a segment of the public  particularly Republicans and Americans who consume news from far-right sources.

Those are the findings of a poll released today by the Public Religion Research Institute and the Interfaith Youth Core, which found that 15 percent of Americans say they think that the levers of power are controlled by a cabal of Satan-worshiping pedophiles, a core belief of QAnon supporters. The same share said it was true that American patriots may have to resort to violence to depose the pedophiles and restore the countrys rightful order.
WASHINGTON  Senate Republicans countered President Bidens latest $1.7 trillion infrastructure plan on Thursday with a blueprint to provide roughly $257 billion in new funding for roads, bridges and other public works projects, offering a small fraction of what Mr. Biden is seeking as negotiations on the package reach a critical stage.

The Republican plan would total $928 billion over eight years, but most of that money would come from maintaining existing programs, with the amount of new spending amounting to less than one-seventh of the sum that Mr. Biden has requested for an expansive infrastructure initiative.

The $1.4 trillion gulf in new spending between the Republican proposal and the presidents reflected deeply held differences between the two sides over the package, and the long odds standing in the way of any bipartisan compromise. Republicans want to limit any infrastructure deal to traditional public works projects like roads, bridges and public transportation, while Mr. Biden has pitched a far more ambitious plan to include expansions of the social safety net. And they remain divided over how to finance the package.

Still, with the president determined to keep his pledge to pursue a bipartisan deal, the White House left the door open for the talks to continue into early June, when Congress returns from a weeklong Memorial Day break. Mr. Biden, who flew to Ohio on Thursday to deliver remarks about the economy, spoke briefly with Senator Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia, the lead Republican negotiator, and agreed to give the discussions more time.
The measure also became weighed down by parochial projects inserted in a bid to win broader support, including a new round of funding for NASA with terms that are likely to benefit Jeff Bezoss space venture, a prohibition on the sale of shark fins and a mandate for labeling the country of origin for king crab. At about 11 p.m. on Wednesday night, with almost no debate, the Senate added a section that would double the budget of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, a Pentagon research agency.

Hours before the legislation was slated to pass, senators were still drafting major components, such as a major trade measure that would reauthorize a lapsed provision that allows for the temporary suspension of tariffs on specific products imported into the United States. It would also direct the United States trade representative to negotiate agreements on forced labor and critical minerals.

Mr. Young, who at a recent hearing made no secret of his disappointment with some of the changes to the measure, said in an interview on Thursday that the legislation still amounted to a significant increase in funding that we will see for applied research.

We will be able to serve as a force multiplier in our efforts to counter Chinas malign influence and activities, he said.

Still, the legislation was buffeted by partisan squabbling at the last minute after Republicans, fearful that they would not have another opportunity to pass China-related bills and miffed by what they characterized as an overly speedy drafting process, demanded that Democrats incorporate more of their proposals.

In a closed-door luncheon on Wednesday, Republicans tried to persuade their colleagues to delay passage of the bill. Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana argued that the process should be slowed and took a jab at Mr. Schumer: The majority leader was moving so swiftly it was as if he was running around like a 5-year-old in a Batman costume on Halloween, Mr. Kennedy said, according to two people familiar with his remarks.

Democrats had allowed votes on more than a dozen Republican amendments, but the threat of a filibuster to block the legislation resulted in a last-ditch round of haggling behind closed doors, as leaders stretched out a 15-minute procedural vote by four hours.
Wednesdays movie night was held to honor National Health Service workers for their bravery and dedication during the COVID pandemic. Middleton started the evening with a speech in which she said she was absolutely delighted to be joined by front line workers.
That makes Mr. Bidens upcoming summit meeting on June 16 in Geneva with President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia all the more tense. Mr. Bidens aides have said strategic stability will be the highest item on the agenda.

In a statement on Thursday evening, the United States blamed Russia for the Open Skies Treatys demise.

The United States regrets that the Treaty on Open Skies has been undermined by Russias violations, the State Department said in the statement. In concluding its review of the treaty, the United States therefore does not intend to seek to rejoin it, given Russias failure to take any actions to return to compliance.

The statement also noted that Russias actions toward Ukraine, which include amassing troops near the border in a show of force, did not support renewing a treaty aimed at heading off military surprises.

Russias behavior, including its recent actions with respect to Ukraine, is not that of a partner committed to confidence building, the statement said.

Mr. Biden, who proposed the meeting with Mr. Putin, has argued that there needs to be a more stable relationship between Russia and the United States even as his administration objects to actions by Mr. Putin, including the poisoning of a dissident, the buildup near Ukraine and the interference in the 2016 and 2020 elections.

As part of that search for stability, Mr. Bidens diplomatic team negotiated with Russia an extension of the New Start treaty, which limits the United States and Russia to 1,550 deployed nuclear missiles each. After the withdrawal from the Open Skies Treaty, New Start will be the only major nuclear treaty left between the two nations.
Investigators do not yet know whether the victims of Wednesdays shooting at a rail yard in San Jose were specifically targeted, and they have not identified a motive for the gunman, Laurie Smith, the sheriff of Santa Clara County, said in an interview Thursday morning on NBCs Today.

What in the world could possibly prompt someone to take this kind of action? she said. We dont know at this point.

Officers confronted Samuel James Cassidy, whom California law enforcement officials identified as the gunman, within a few minutes, Sheriff Smith said, suggesting the carnage could have been worse if they had not arrived quickly. The sheriffs office headquarters is next door to the rail yard.

Mr. Cassidy carried two semiautomatic handguns and had 11 loaded magazines, she said, adding that police dogs at the scene found materials for bombs in what investigators believe to be his locker.
We guaranteed they would not be killed, he said. There was nothing written, just our word.

A few miles away, Commander Zindani refused to surrender his forlorn outpost near the front line. He said officers who had negotiated surrenders at three nearby outposts had betrayed their country.

One of his men, Muhammad Agha Bambard, said he would fight to avenge the deaths of two brothers he said were killed by the Taliban. He would never surrender, he said.

Commander Zindanis nine men were down to a machine gun, a rocket-propelled grenade launcher and one AK-47 rifle each inside a ramshackle outpost with bloodstained walls. But he said he intended to fight on  as he told the Taliban commander who regularly phoned to demand his surrender.

I told him, Im a soldier of my country, the commander said. I am not here to surrender.

Four days later, on Sunday, the outpost was overrun during a firefight with the Taliban, a member of the provincial council said. One police officer was shot dead and Commander Zindani and his outgunned men were taken prisoner.

A few hours later, the Taliban released a video showing Mr. Bambard being questioned by a Taliban commander as he lay on a mattress, his face and neck bandaged. In a mocking tone, the commander asked why Mr. Bambard had posted on his Facebook page that he would not let the enemy capture his outpost while he was alive.

The wounded officer responded, This is Afghanistan.


The fiery Islamic cleric Rizieq Shihab, who returned to Indonesia last year from self-imposed exile pledging to lead a moral revolution, was sentenced to eight months in prison on Thursday for attracting people to attend mass gatherings in violation of coronavirus protocols.

A three-judge panel in Jakarta, the Indonesian capital, found Mr. Rizieq guilty of drawing thousands of followers to two large events after he returned in November from Saudi Arabia, where he had fled in 2017 to avoid a pornography charge. That charge was later dropped but could be reinstated.

On his arrival in Indonesia, Mr. Rizieq, 55, was welcomed as a returning hero by his followers. Many thousands of people thronged Jakartas international airport to receive him. Soon after, he attracted thousands more to his daughters wedding and an event straight after where he preached about his vision of Islamic law for Indonesia.

Mr. Rizieq, the leader of the Islamic Defenders Front, a prominent Islamic group known for its extremism, has been branded a thug by his critics. But his ability to attract crowds and his radical message could pose a political threat to Indonesias president, Joko Widodo.
MELBOURNE, Australia  Pink, hairless, deaf and blind, the roughly month-old joeys were but the size of a shelled peanut.

Yet they were a momentous discovery for the conservationists who had set off across a dense eucalyptus forest in the dawn mist in hopes of finding them. About 3,000 years after Tasmanian devils were wiped out on the Australian mainland, seven babies were born earlier month on the continent in their natural terrain.

It was very moving, said Tim Faulkner, the president of Aussie Ark, the conservation group that has been leading attempts to re-establish populations of the devils, long after they were eliminated on the mainland, most likely by wild Australian dogs, known as dingoes.

Like the devils themselves, Mr. Faulkner said, the project is still in its infancy. It remains unclear how the animals would fare outside the fenced 1,000-acre wildlife preserve where they were born. But, he added, the first step was for the devils to breed and survive, and they did.
The surge in Covid-19 cases has overwhelmed intensive care units in Manitobas hospitals, forcing some patients to be evacuated by air to other provinces. Twenty-six patients had been flown to neighboring Ontario by midday Thursday, including some to Ottawa, about 1,000 miles away. Saskatchewan was expected to accept its first I.C.U. patients from Manitoba later in the day.

On Tuesday, a group of doctors called on the province to follow the lead of Ontario and other provinces by introducing a stay-at-home order and closing nonessential businesses, particularly stores. Those steps have allowed other provinces to rein in their most recent waves of infections.

The only thing that hasnt happened really is shutting down areas where people congregate for work, said Dr. Eric Jacobsohn, a professor of medicine at the University of Manitoba who is part of the group. We saw last year when we had to have a complete shutdown, we got control of the situation.

On Wednesday, Mr. Pallister extended for another two weeks rules that ban indoor and outdoor gatherings of people who are not from the same household. Health officials were given the power to close businesses with outbreaks, but the government did not elaborate.

Stores, including those selling nonessential goods, will be allowed to remain open, while limited to 10 percent of their capacity, a cap imposed several weeks ago. Ontario and other provinces have taken stricter steps.

We need Manitobans to stay home as much as possible over the next two weeks, Mr. Pallister said.

Mr. Pallister has repeatedly suggested that the worsening situation was caused, not by too few restrictions, but rather by people failing to comply with restrictions already in place.

No restrictions work unless people work at them, Mr. Pallister said on Thursday after being asked why he was not shutting nonessential stores.
MOSCOW  The airspace over Eastern Europe turned into a geopolitical checkerboard on Thursday, as Russia rejected some European flights that were avoiding Belarus, the latest salvo in the furor over the forced landing of a passenger jet with a Belarusian dissident onboard.

New information emerged on Thursday that further undermined the Belarusian governments claim that it brought down the flight on Sunday because of a bomb threat, and not for the purpose of seizing the dissident, Roman Protasevich. A Swiss email provider said that the email Belarusian authorities have cited as the bomb threat was in fact sent after the plane had already been diverted.

In the skies, the swift developments showed how the diversion of the flight from Greece to Lithuania and the arrest of Mr. Protasevich were having widening repercussions for travel and commerce, and for relations between Russia and most of Europe. They indicated that Moscow could be prepared to double down on its support of Aleksandr G. Lukashenko, Belaruss strongman leader; the Kremlin said he would meet with President Vladimir V. Putin in Sochi, Russia, on Friday.

Russian aviation authorities on Thursday declined to approve new flight plans for an Air France flight and an Austrian Airlines flight to Moscow that would have looped around Belarusian airspace. With Lithuania now barring arriving flights that have crossed over Belarus, the Russian state-owned airline Aeroflot canceled a flight from Moscow to Vilnius, Lithuania, that ordinarily would have passed through Belarusian airspace.
WALBRZYCH, Poland  The mayor, a heart surgeon, had just finished overnight hospital duty when he received alarming news: a mob of protesters, some dressed in military camouflage, had gathered outside his home, screaming abuse through bullhorns and waving banners comparing him to Josef Mengele, the Nazi death camp physician.

The small but menacing rally this month followed a decision a few days earlier by the elected council in Walbrzych, a former mining town in southwestern Poland, to declare that vaccination against the coronavirus was mandatory for all adult residents.

That decision, the mayor, Dr. Roman Szelemej, said in an interview, reflected the simple medical fact that vaccination is the only thing that can prevent this disease. But instead of calming nerves, he lamented, it made this small point on the map of Poland a place for all the skeptics of science and reality to focus on.

Wariness of coronavirus vaccines runs deep in Poland, particularly among younger people, with a survey by the University of Warsaw indicating that around 40 percent of the population is averse to getting inoculated. This is a lower level of skepticism than in France but still enough to make vaccines a rallying cause for a diverse and, Dr. Szelemej fears, growing minority who live in a different reality based on distrust of all scientific, moral and political authority.
Dario Tedesco, a volcanologist at the Luigi Vanvitelli University of Campania, in Sicily, was on that mission and he told Science magazine that he and his colleagues found the lava lake there filling at an alarming rate.

This is the most dangerous volcano in the world, he said shortly after that trip.

Located on the tectonic divide known as the East African Rift, on the eastern edge of the Democratic Republic of Congo near the border with Rwanda, it is less than eight miles from the center of Goma, which sits on the shore of Lake Kivu.

While it is not clear if the latest eruption and seismic activity will trigger a more deadly disaster, officials in the central African country decided that the risk was too great not to take action.

The situation can change quickly, the military governor of the province, Lt. Gen. Constant Ndima, told the public. In anticipation of this possible disaster and in agreement with scientists and volcanologists, we have taken the decision to relocate the population from 10 of the citys 18 districts.

As many as one million people reside in those districts, but it was hard to know how many heeded the government warning.

Adolph Byamungu, a taxi driver who lives in Goma, said there were not many people left in his part of town.
This is about taking care of both our current team members and those who will be joining our team, Universal spokesman Tom Schroder said in a statement. In addition, we are actively recruiting new team members and we are working hard to be the best employer in the marketplace when it comes to wages, benefits and work environment.
BAGHDAD  Iraqs leader has been under intense pressure to rein in the dozens of paramilitary groups that are nominally under the command of the Iraqi government but have proved seemingly impossible for him to control.

That was made abundantly clear this week, when Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi ordered a move against one militia leader and quickly paid a price.

After government forces arrested a paramilitary commander on Wednesday, Iraqi militias backed by Iran mounted a show of force in and around the heavily guarded Green Zone in Baghdad, in a confrontation that goes to the heart of who controls security in Iraq.

Curbing the Iranian-backed militias that emerged in 2014 to fight the Islamic State  and have now become an entrenched part of Iraqs security  was one of Mr. Kadhimis key promises when he took power last May. Bringing to justice those who kidnap and kill government protesters was another pledge.
GENEVA  Spurred by the latest fighting in Gaza, the United Nations top human rights body voted Thursday to appoint a commission of inquiry with unusually broad latitude to investigate possible war crimes and other abuses committed in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories. Israel denounced the decision as a one-sided sham.

It was the third time in seven years that the Human Rights Council in Geneva had decided to name such a panel, but this one differed in two important respects:

It is ongoing, meaning the panel can pursue the inquiry indefinitely. That gives it a degree of permanence akin to investigative bodies documenting atrocities in Syria and Myanmar.

And the commission is not limited to looking just at hostilities in Gaza and the West Bank, but instead has been charged with examining all underlying root causes of recurrent tensions, instability and protraction of conflict, including systematic discrimination and repression based on national, ethnic, racial or religious identity.

Although the commission could theoretically investigate human rights violations by all parties, the resolution creating it does not mention Hamas or other Palestinian militant groups. Critics who opposed the resolution said it lacked balance.
But reconnecting neighborhoods is more complicated than breaking them apart.

Now, some cities are looking to take them out.

These aerial photos show American cities before the highway boom of the 1950s and 60s.

ROCHESTER, N.Y.  Built in the 1950s to speed suburban commuters to and from downtown, Rochesters Inner Loop destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses, replacing them with a broad, concrete trench that separated downtown from the rest of the city.

Now, the city is looking to repair the damage. It started by filling in a nearly-mile-long section of the sunken road, slowly stitching a neighborhood back together. Today, visitors of the Inner Loops eastern segment would hardly know a highway once ran beneath their feet.

As midcentury highways reach the end of their life spans, cities across the country are having to choose whether to rebuild or reconsider them. And a growing number, like Rochester, are choosing to take them down.

In order to accommodate cars and commuters, many cities basically destroyed themselves, said Norman Garrick, a professor at the University of Connecticut who studies how transportation projects have reshaped American cities.

Rochester has shown what can be done in terms of reconnecting the city and restoring a sense of place, he said. Thats really the underlying goal of highway removal.

The projects successes and stumbling blocks provide lessons for other cities looking to retire some of their own aging highways. Nearly 30 cities nationwide are currently discussing some form of removal.

Some, like Syracuse and Detroit, have committed to replacing stretches of interstate with more connected, walkable neighborhoods. Others, like New Orleans and Dallas, are facing pressure from local residents and activists to address the pollution, noise and safety hazards brought by the mega-roads.

The eastern section of Rochesters Inner Loop highway, before it was removed. City of Rochester

Shawn Dunwoody, a local artist and community organizer, walking along the new Union Street corridor, which replaced the Inner Loop. Mustafa Hussain for The New York Times

The growing movement has been energized by support from the Biden administration, which has made addressing racial justice and climate change, major themes in the debate over highway removal, central to its agenda.

In a wide-reaching infrastructure plan released at the end of March, President Biden proposed spending $20 billion to help reconnect neighborhoods divided by highways. Congressional Democrats have translated the proposal into legislation that would provide funding over the next five years. And the Department of Transportation opened up separate grants that could help some cities get started.

Pete Buttigieg, who heads the department, has expressed support for removing barriers that divided Black and minority communities, saying that there is racism physically built into some of our highways. Midcentury highway projects often targeted Black neighborhoods, destroying cultural and economic centers and bringing decades of environmental harm.

Congress is still haggling over Mr. Bidens infrastructure plan, but experts say the proposed funding for highway removal represents a shift in the way the government approaches transportation projects.

As recently as a decade ago, said Peter D. Norton, a transportation historian at the University of Virginia, every transportation problem was a problem to be solved with new roads. Now, the impacts of those roads are beginning to enter the equation.

Turning a Highway Back Into a Neighborhood

Federal and state funds have historically gone to building highways, not removing them. But in 2013, the city of Rochester, in upstate New York, won a nearly $18 million grant from the Obama administration that allowed it to take out an eastern segment of its sunken Inner Loop freeway, known locally as the moat.

Photos from a birds-eye view show the roads transformation:

Overpass Bike lanes IRS building Now, apartments Reclaimed land Highway Rubble Dump truck New road Church Garage Access road





The original highway spanned six lanes, with access roads alongside. Dump trucks hauled thousands of tons of dirt to fill it in. A narrower boulevard replaced the highway, and the rest of the land was opened up for development. Today, apartments and bike lanes line the street, with many projects still under construction.

People have already moved into townhouse-style apartments where the highway once stood. Scooters and bicycles share space with cars along the new Union Street corridor, a once unlikely sight. Several cross-streets cut off by the highway have been reconnected, encouraging more walking in the area.

And the big fear of removing a highway  terrible traffic  hasnt materialized.

Lovely Warren, who has served as Rochesters mayor since 2014, said the project is proof the city can undo some of its mistakes.

In the past, we created a way for people to get on a highway and go directly out of our community, she said, adding that highways also created barriers that were really detrimental to the communities left behind.

Now, Rochester is trying a different approach: Instead of moving people in and out of downtown as quickly as possible, the city is trying to make downtown a more livable place.

The highway removal and other deconstruction projects are part of a long-term plan for a city still struggling to come back from years of economic and population decline. The big bet: Rebuilding more walkable, bikeable and connected neighborhoods will attract new investment and new residents. And city officials hope it might even reduce car-dependence in the long run.

A new apartment building under construction, next to a florist and interior design shop that sat atop the highway for decades. Mustafa Hussain for The New York Times

But rebuilding a neighborhood from scratch isnt easy, or quick.

Four years after the sunken freeway was filled, many buildings along the corridor are still under construction and new businesses have not yet moved into the space, including a planned pharmacy and grocery store.

Local residents and business owners said they were glad to see the highway go, but many of them had mixed feelings about what followed.

The success was: It got filled. You now have people living somewhere that was just road before, said Shawn Dunwoody, an artist and community organizer who lives in Marketview Heights, a neighborhood near the removal site.

We dont have the moat that was there, he said, walking along the new corridor. But now, when you look down, there's just a whole series of walls, he added, pointing to the large, new apartment buildings that repeat down Union Street.

Others echoed the concern that the redevelopment project brought in too many higher-end apartments (though a portion are reserved for lower-income tenants and other vulnerable groups) without opening up any space for the public: No parks, no plazas.

Erik Frisch, a transportation specialist for the city who worked on the Inner Loop East removal, said the project has so far fulfilled its main goals: bringing in new investment and enlivening the citys East End. But the new neighborhood is still a work in progress.

Rebuilding a neighborhood is not just an Add water, mix and stir type situation, said Emily Morry, who works at the Rochester Public Library and has written about the neighborhoods razed by the Inner Loops construction. You can set up all the infrastructure you like, but theres the human factor, which takes all these different buildings and turns them into actual, viable communities.

Rochester is now looking to take down more of the Inner Loop highway, starting with a northern arm. Officials hope the experience from the first removal will help expedite the process.

Rochesters Inner Loop South Marketview Heights New removal study area Grove Place Downtown Former Inner Loop East Quarter mile South Marketview Heights New removal study area Grove Place Downtown Former Inner Loop East 1/4 mile South Marketview Heights New removal study area Grove Place Downtown Former Inner Loop East Quarter mile By The New York Times  Source: City of Rochester, Nearmap

It took more than two decades of planning to break ground on the Inner Loop East removal, even though the project faced fewer obstacles than most.

The eastern highway segment never carried the traffic it was built to serve, so its removal faced scant opposition from daily commuters and business groups. The aging road was due for major upgrades, which would have cost much more than the entire removal process. And there werent a lot of people already living along the corridor.

Funding and expertise were the biggest barriers to removal.

A few highways had been taken down in the past, but there was no real template. San Franciscos Embarcadero Freeway was irreparably damaged by an earthquake in 1989 and removed two years later. Other, more recent removals targeted waterfront highways and short spurs rather than segments of a working highway.

We are a bit of a proof of concept, said Mr. Frisch, the citys transportation specialist.

Removing the northern arm of the Inner Loop presents a new challenge. That section of highway carries much more traffic and its removal would reconnect two long-divided neighborhoods: Marketview Heights, a majority Black and Hispanic lower-income community north of the Inner Loop, and Grove Place, a whiter, wealthier enclave to the south.

For current residents of Marketview Heights, the crucial question is: What will reconnection bring? More opportunity and less pollution? Or another round of displacement?

Dozens of Projects Across the Nation

In recent years, more cities have started to seriously rethink some of their highways. The Congress for the New Urbanism, a group that tracks highway removals, counted 33 proposed projects in 28 American cities. And the idea is being discussed in many others.

Committed to removing highway or section Detroit Interstate 375 New Haven, Conn. Oak Street Connector Somerville, Mass. McGrath Highway Syracuse, N.Y. Interstate 81 Removal under official study Arlington, Va. Route 1 Austin,Texas Interstate 35 Boston Allston Viaduct Buffalo Kensington Expressway Buffalo Scajaquada Expressway Buffalo Skyway Dallas Interstate 345 Kansas City, Mo. Interstate 35 North Loop Rochester, N.Y. Inner Loop North Seattle Interstate 5 Removal plan proposed Atlanta Interstate 75/85 Denver, Colo. Colfax Cloverleaf Duluth, Minn. Interstate 35 Erie, Pa. Bayfront Parkway Flint, Mich. Interstate 475 Hartford, Conn. Interstate 91/84 Indianapolis, Ind. Interstate 65/70 Long Beach, Calif. Shoreline Drive Long Beach, Calif. Terminal Island Freeway New Orleans, La. Claiborne Expressway New York City Brooklyn-Queens Expressway Oakland, Calif. Interstate 980 Pasadena, Calif. State Route 710 Portland, Ore. Interstate 5 San Francisco Interstate 280 San Francisco The Great Highway Seattle State Route 99 St. Paul, Minn. Interstate 94 Tampa, Fla. Interstate 275

If rebuilding cities is done right, highway removal projects could make life better for local residents as well as the planet, said Dr. Garrick of the University of Connecticut, because denser, less car-centric neighborhoods are crucially important to reducing greenhouse gases that are causing climate change.

The proposed replacements, and their benefits, vary. Some follow Rochesters model, turning former highways into smaller, walkable boulevards. Others are covering highways with parks, or merely replacing them with highway-like streets. Nationwide, many cities also continue to expand highways.

A growing number of removal projects are grappling with the questions of environmental justice central to Mr. Bidens proposal. Historically, vulnerable communities have had little say in infrastructure decisions.

When the National Interstate Highway System was built in the 1950s and '60s, it connected the country like never before. But it plowed through cities with little concern for local effects. State highways and connector roads compounded the damage.

Highways, freeways, expressways were always hostile to cities, said Dr. Norton of the University of Virginia. But they were particularly hostile to Black communities.

In cities like Detroit, New Orleans, Richmond, Va., and many more, federal interstates and other highways were often built through thriving Black neighborhoods in the name of slum clearance.

Detroits Black Bottom neighborhood, the center of the citys Black community, was demolished to make way for Interstate 375 and other urban renewal projects. Now, the highway is slated for removal. Burton Historical Collection, Detroit Public Library; Cydni Elledge for The New York Times

Most highway projects fit into a broader program of urban renewal that reshaped American cities in the mid-20th century, displacing more than a million people across the country, most of them Black. Cities replaced dense, mixed-use neighborhoods with mega-projects like convention centers, malls, and highways. When public housing was built, it usually replaced many fewer units than were destroyed.

Clearing blighted neighborhoods, which was usually a reference to low-income and Black areas , was the intentional goal of many urban highway projects, said Lynn Richards, president of the Congress for the New Urbanism, which advocates for more sustainable cities. But, you know, where one person sees urban blight, another person sees a relatively stable neighborhood.

Highways didnt just destroy communities, they also often reinforced racial divides within cities.

White Americans increasingly fled cities altogether, following newly built roads to the growing suburbs. But Black residents were largely barred from doing the same. Government policies denied them access to federally backed mortgages and private discrimination narrowed the options further.

In effect, that left many Black residents living along the highways paths.

New Orleans' Claiborne Avenue, once a tree-lined boulevard, now sits in the shadow of the Claiborne Expressway. Local groups are pushing to remove the mega-road. The Historic New Orleans Collection; Abdul Aziz for The New York Times

In March, Mr. Biden named New Orleans Claiborne Expressway as a vivid example of how highway construction divided communities and led to environmental injustice.

The highway looms over Claiborne Avenue, once an oak-lined boulevard that served as the economic heart and soul of the Black community of New Orleans, said Amy Stelly, a local resident and urban planner, who has been pushing for the Expressways removal for most of the last decade. A part of the Treme neighborhood, the Claiborne Avenue corridor was a central meeting space for local residents and the site of Black Mardi Gras celebrations at a time when the festival was still segregated.

In the mid-1960s, the oak trees were ripped out to make way for the highway, cleaving the neighborhood in two. Over the following decades, the once middle-class area fell into decline. Today, the Expressway corridor is polluted: Local residents suffer higher than average rates of asthma and the soil is contaminated with lead, the result of years of leaded gasoline use in cars traveling into and out of downtown.

The idea of removing the highway, however, is raising some of the same concerns heard in Rochester.

Not Repeating Mistakes of the Past

Older residents of Rochesters Marketview Heights neighborhood still remember the displacement caused by the construction of the Inner Loop. Many people now fear a second wave if it is removed.

A common argument, said Mr. Dunwoody, the artist and community organizer, is that if the highway is removed folks are now going to be looking at our neighborhood, and bringing in yoga studios and coffee shops to move us out.

People dont want to get gentrified, get pushed out, get priced out, he said.

To make sure that city officials listen to these concerns, Mr. Dunwoody started a local advocacy group three years ago with Suzanne Mayer, who lives on the other side of the highway, in the Grove Place neighborhood. The group, called Hinge Neighbors, aims to bring local residents into the planning process.

Shawn Dunwoody and Suzanne Mayer stand on a bridge overlooking the Inner Loops remaining northern arm. Mustafa Hussain for The New York Times

At a community meeting in Marketview Heights in early May, the biggest question on peoples minds wasnt whether the highway should come down, but what will replace it.

Miquel Powell, a local resident and business owner working on a prison re-entry program, worried that more large-scale apartments, like those built in the East End, would come to the neighborhood. That would totally change the whole dynamic, he said. Marketview Heights is mostly free-standing, single-family homes; some are subdivided and most are rented.

Nancy Maciuska, who is in her 60s, said she wants to see more family-centric development in the area if the highway is removed, and some parks to replace those torn down by the construction of the freeway. So people can raise their families and enjoy Mother Nature, she said.

Hinge Neighbors helped Mrs. Maciuska, Mr. Powell and other local residents put some of their concerns about the Inner Loop North project into a presentation for city consultants and the mayor.

The project is still in early stages and Marketview Heights is only one corner of the area under study for removal. But Ms. Warren said her administration is exploring options that would help keep longtime residents in the neighborhood, including potential rent-to-own housing arrangements.

City officials are scheduled to present a series of options for the project to the community this summer.

Miquel Powell and Nancy Maciuska, both residents of the Marketview Heights neighborhood, presented their concerns about post-highway removal redevelopment to the mayor and other city officials. Mustafa Hussain for The New York Times

The big challenge, according to Dr. Garrick, is that new investments in American cities today tend to lead to gentrification. We need to figure out how to change without displacing people, he said.

Some of the positive effects of highway removals, like decreasing pollution and increasing property values, can lead to the displacement. A recent study looked at the effects of replacing the Cypress Freeway in Oakland, Calif., with a street-level boulevard and found that the project decreased pollution but increased resident turnover.

Such environmental gentrification can also happen when parks and other greenery are introduced to historically disadvantaged neighborhoods.

The proposed Democratic legislation hopes to avoid that paradox. The bill would fund community outreach and engagement by local groups. And it prioritizes capital construction grants for projects that include measures like land trusts that would ensure the availability of affordable housing for local residents.

Its no longer good enough for us to remove a highway and make a replacement road beautiful, said Ms. Richards of the Congress for the New Urbanism. We have to reconnect the neighborhoods and invest in the legacy residents.
For years, Erica Monnin and Derrick Carman didnt have to worry about finding a place to live. Ms. Monnin works in the field of student residential life, so housing typically came with her job.

We lived on campus for a few different schools for about 10 years, she said. But it comes with strings: You are on call for emergencies and live with college students.

Most recently, the couple and their poodle, Archer, lived in a one-bedroom in a residence hall on the Upper East Side. When the coronavirus arrived, most of the students had to evacuate the dorm  and so did Ms. Monnin and Mr. Carman.

The couple, now both 33, are high-school sweethearts from Ohio, who went to Denison University together and then to Syracuse, where she studied higher-education administration and he attended law school. They married nine years ago.

All the while, they had been saving for a home of their own, although their vague down-payment fund came with no actual timeline for when we might buy a house, or where, Ms. Monnin said.

[Did you recently buy or rent a home in the New York metro area? We want to hear from you. Email: thehunt@nytimes.com]

But suddenly the time was ripe to buy, so they hustled to find a place. They were looking for a two-bedroom with a nice kitchen (or one with potential to be redone) in a walkable neighborhood that was an easy commute to their Midtown offices, for no more than $625,000.

Covid has taught us its nice to have a little more space at home than you think you need, Ms. Monnin said. They also wanted room for guests.

To find it, they ventured across the Hudson River to New Jersey, where they knew people, and where they could afford a two-bedroom condominium with a reasonable commute (although both are currently working from home).

Last summer, they were referred to Shaye Lastra, an agent with Coldwell Banker, in Hoboken. They liked that smaller-building, Old-World-charm feel, Ms. Lastra said.

At that point, there was plenty of inventory. Typically, weve got a three- to five-year turnover in a market like Hoboken and Jersey City, she said.

While Mr. Carman wanted a place that was updated and move-in ready, Ms. Monnin was hoping for something that needed work. Erica loves a project, he said.

Among their options:
Today

Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. Slight chance of a rain shower. High around 70F. Winds NE at 10 to 20 mph.

Tonight

Mostly clear. Low 62F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.

Tomorrow

A few passing clouds, otherwise generally sunny. High around 70F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph.
Kristie Kuhl

"The cell therapy space today is at the leading edge of medicine, so it is similar to where the biotech industry was 25-30 years ago.

When Kerry Beth Daly, head of communications, Atara Biotherapeutics, made that comparison while on a panel I moderated at the Fierce Pharma and PR Communications Summit, it inspired ideas about how Health PR pros can navigate the issues of communicating complex science.

New Science Met with a Mix of Awe and Fear

Biotechnology in the early aughts was booming, and the public viewed it with a mix of excitement and anxiety as they wondered about the long-term impacts. Payers went from being concerned with paying for things used by broad populations to concerns about the totality of spending on specialty drugs. Today, we see the same questions about how to pay for cell and gene therapy and how these innovations will impact people who take them into the future. We also see the same ethical questions about how to harness new scientific powers that could lead to eugenic decisions. Communicators need to spend time listening to concerns and helping their companies/clients develop policies and messages about the concerns raised.

Importance of Partnership

Cell and gene therapy are team sports, and the relationships between academic medical institutions and companies are vital. Roughly 25 years ago, biotech and academic medical institutions were working together, litigating about royalty rates and posturing about independence. Today, we see cell and gene therapy companies working in close partnership with academic medical institutions from early research through development. Communicators on both sides of the partnership can work together to elevate the importance of the data messages while seeking inclusivity of those who participate, from the institutions and companies to the patients in the trials, caregivers, advocates and the broader patient community. Working together eliminates blind spots in messaging.

Value versus Price

Communicating the value of any medication starts well before price is established. Pipeline and data communications impact the perceived value of all medications. The chief medical officer of a small pharmaceutical company once told me, A trial is a success if the prescribing community wants it to be. Even if a clinical trial meets endpoints, if the prescribing community doesnt have faith in the science or the company, providers are likely to take a wait-and-see attitude before prescribing in the real world. Conversely, if a trial fails to meet its endpoints, but the clinical community had faith in the concept, they will look at subpopulations or different data cuts to confirm their belief.

This confirmation bias is true in pricing. No one likes paying for medicationsbut communicating the life-changing (and often, lifesaving) nature of cell and gene therapies throughout the development process will convey their value. Bringing the human impact, incorporating personal stories, can translate scientific data into powerful stories of daily life with diseaseand its emotional and financial toll.

Twenty-five years ago, some companies decided not to do business in countries that didnt meet the prices they set for their biotechnology therapies. Today, when Bluebird Bio pulled its gene therapy Zyntelgo, for beta-thalassemia, out of Germany when that country offered roughly half of the Bluebird Bio price, analysts described the withdrawal as a smart move in protecting the therapys long-term value, noting that very few people in Germany have beta-thalassemia.

However, for the German families of infants with this fatal disease, company valuation doesnt matter. They wont care that there arent many patients in Germany. They want the solution that Bluebird Bio developed, and communicators must engage in honest, empathetic discussions with companies and clients about people impacted by business decisions.

Communicators do more than share stories with the external worldwe also help companies quantify the value and benefit that their scientific innovations provide to patient communities in need and communicate that value to them and the wider health ecosystem, which includes regulators, providers, lawmakers and the wider business community. To do that effectively, we have to learn from the past, reminding our clients and companies about the need to balance their long-term R&D investment goals with patients and payers concerns. We must also remind them to take into account the harsh reality that their operational decisions have the potential to leave patients out in the cold when treatments are not accessible.

Cell and gene therapies have the potential to change lives. As communicators, we are on the front lines of the effort to ensure that the benefits and positive impacts of all this scientific innovation are understood and that they drive decision-making on behalf of patients first. If we do that, we can help others learn from the past as we build the future.

***

Kristie Kuhl is managing partner at Finn Partners.
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So far, nearly half of Floridians have received at least one dose of vaccine, and in Orange County, 44% of all people have, and 54% of those 16 and older have. The White House announced this week that half of eligible Americans have received at least one shot as well.
MENAFN.com 02 Jun 2021

(MENAFN - Gulf Times) Airline companies said flights between Germany and Russia had resumed last evening, after each country..
Thank you for supporting our journalism. This article is available exclusively for our subscribers, who help fund our work at the Orlando Sentinel.
Kevin Clark was an American actor and musician. He was best known for playing Freddy Jones in the musical comedy film School of Rock (2003). He also had a band based in Northbrook, Illinois, called Third Estate, which broke up in late November 2004. He was a professional percussionist in Chicago.
Manitoba is a province of Canada at the longitudinal centre of the country. It is Canada's fifth-most populous province, with a population of 1,278,365 as of 2016. The easternmost of the three prairie provinces, Manitoba covers 649,950 square kilometres (250,900 sq mi) of widely varied landscape, from arctic tundra and the Hudson Bay coastline in the north to dense boreal forest, large freshwater lakes, and prairie grasslands in the central and southern regions.
China has accused the US of playing politics in calling for a renewed probe into the origins of the coronavirus that was first detected in China in late 2019.
Air France flight 342 flew with a 16 per cent mix of sustainable aviation fuel in its fuel tanks, produced in France by Total from used cooking oil.
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The trial of an Australian academic detained for more than two years in China on espionage charges began behind closed doors on..

Digital Journal 27 May 2021
Uber Technologies Inc (NYSE:UBER) has agreed on a historic deal with GMB trade union, which will now be able to represent up to 70,000 drivers across the UK. Its the first time a gig economy outfit formally recognises a workers union, allowing for collective bargaining. READ: Uber says reclassification of UK drivers cost US$600mln Drivers will retain the freedom to choose if, when and where they drive while also having the choice to be represented by GMB. Uber and GMB will work together on key topics such as national earnings, pension, benefits, safety measures and account deactivations. Grassroots group App Drivers & Couriers Union (ADCU) said this is a welcome development but it remains cautious. The independent union said it wont enter a similar agreement with Uber because the latter continues to violate basic employment law such as the right to minimum wage for all working time and holiday pay. It added that Uber applied for declaratory relief from the High Court to confirm that its business model was not in violation of transport regulations, despite commentary suggesting the opposite by Lord Leggatt in the recent Supreme Court ruling in favour of drivers. We are disturbed by Ubers divisive and anti-union behaviour in the US, most recently in California and New York State, where Uber has used the appearance of blunt collective bargaining agreements to actually weaken the power of workers rather than the opposite, ADCU said. We have concerns about Ubers motivations on this side of the Atlantic not only in the UK but throughout Europe also. We are also concerned about Ubers suggestion of preferential treatment of driver dismissal appeals. We believe that any such arrangement would be unlawful. GMB said the agreement builds on changes made earlier this year which guarantee all workers at least the National Living Wage, holiday pay and a pension plan. Uber is the only major private hire operator to offer these protections, and no other operator has followed this move, GMB added. Shares rose 1% to US$51.39 in after hours trading.
Eurasia Review 24 May 2021

One could not accuse US Representative Liz Cheney of Wyoming of having a sense of irony. For some time, she has felt her party to..
Ready, reset, go: US President Joe Biden has little time to spare tackling an array of pressing issues at home and abroad. One of his most urgent tasks has been to rebuild trust in the trans-Atlantic relationship.
The fund represents the country's biggest-ever support package for culture. The government said it hoped the measure would "bring the diverse cultural landscape in Germany back to life."
The idea was to not pigeonhole ourselves into one little thing, widen the funnel as much as we can, Johnson said, noting that earlier on, the menu was even larger. Its a scratch kitchen, and it will continue to evolve based on guest feedback. Weve tried to add in some healthier dishes and value-driven items. We want to be a destination, he says.
Germany says EU foreign ministers won't be satisifed with "small steps" as they put together plans for economic and sector-specific sanctions.
Marilyn Manson's dodging authorities in New Hampshire ... at least according to cops who have a warrant to arrest him for an..

TMZ.com 26 May 2021
Current and former members of the UN Security Council said the incident showed "flagrant disregard for international law."
Five people have been arrested after a Black Lives Matter activist was shot at a house party in London at the weekend.
Oneindia 31 May 2021

Amidst lockdown in the capital region in the wake of spike in covid cases, incessant rain in the last few days has left a trail of..
Digital Journal 31 May 2021

An Australian academic on trial in China for espionage has told supporters he has been tortured in detention and still does not..
Most states and territories have introduced travel restrictions on people arriving from Victoria, after a COVID-19 outbreak in the state grew to 26 cases on Thursday.
Thursday: In San Joses Evergreen neighborhood, residents reeled as they learned the gunman in the mass shooting at a nearby rail yard was their neighbor.
Salvatore Vistarchi of Montreal spent 33 months in an internment camp in Petawawa, Ont., during the Second World War without..

CBC.ca 27 May 2021
Its really important that if anybody has any information or felt that they were inappropriately touched by this man at one time, you need to come forward so we can have some closure and make sure that all these victims are getting the justice they deserve, he said.
Flights departing from the UK and France account for more than a third of all private jet emissions in Europe.
Children in Germany will soon be able to get vaccinated against the coronavirus, but only if the EU's EMA approves the BioNTech-Pfizer shot for 12 to 15-year-olds.
European privacy groups accuse the facial scan company of stockpiling biometric data on billions of people without their permission. The firm's database contains images "scraped" from websites, including social media.
Israel says it will not cooperate with the probe, as twenty-four of the forum's 47 member states voted in favor of the resolution

Haaretz 27 May 2021
The United States on Thursday said that it deeply regretted a decision by the United Nations Human Rights Council to launch an international investigation into crimes that may have been committed in the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians. The UNHRC decided to create an open-ended international investigation into violations surrounding the latest Gaza violence.
(MENAFN - Gulf Times) An employee shot dead at least eight people at a rail yard in California yesterday, police said, in the latest mass shooting to hit the US. The male suspect also died and several others suffered major injuries in the incident at the public transit maintenance yard in San Jose, just south of San Francisco. Bomb squads were deployed after reports of explosive devices within the compound, and were trying to ''clear out every room and every crevice of the building, Russell Davis, a Santa Clara County Sheriffs deputy, told journalists. ''There are eight victims that are pronounced deceased at this point and there is one suspect thats pronounced deceased, said Davis, adding those numbers could rise. ''The suspect is a VTA employee, he added, referring to the local Valley Transportation Authority. Police had rushed to investigate multiple early morning 911 calls reporting gunshots. No immediate details were provided on whether the shooter was killed by police or took his own life, or about the type of weapon he used. ''Our hearts go out to the victims and their families, White House deputy press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters. ''Whats clear, as the president has said, is that we are suffering from an epidemic of gun violence in this country, she added, renewing calls for Congress to pass long-awaited gun control reforms. Dozens of patrol cars and fire engines as well as FBI officials lined the streets near the rail yard in San Jose, a Silicon Valley tech hub of almost a million people. Local officials said the shooting  which was initially reported before 7am local time (1400GMT)  had taken place at a union meeting, with at least 80 staff on site at the time. Several people were receiving medical treatment, said San Jose mayor Sam Liccardo. ''Our hearts are pained for the families of those we have lost in this horrific shooting, he tweeted. The incident took place in a VTA yard that is used to store and maintain trains. ''Our thoughts and love go out to the VTA family, the organisation and what they have had to go through, VTA board of directors chairman Glenn Hendricks told reporters. ''I could not be more proud of the VTA organisation. This is a horrible tragedy that occurred. The VTA tweeted that its employees had been evacuated. The US has a long and painful history of deadly gun violence, in the form of a steady daily toll of shootings as well as high-profile mass killings that have targeted schools, work places and shopping centres. Homicides, mostly gun-driven, have surged in the US over the past year. Mass shootings have occurred in recent months at a FedEx facility in Indianapolis, an office building in California, a grocery store in Colorado and at several spas in Atlanta. In August 2019, another mass shooting in the Bay Area left two children and a 25-year-old man dead at a garlic festival in Gilroy, almost 50kms south of San Jose. President Joe Biden last month branded US gun violence an ''epidemic and an ''international embarrassment. There were more than 43,000 gun-related deaths in the US last year, including suicides, according to the Gun Violence Archive.MENAFN26052021000067011011ID1102145120
FOX 4 Now Florida 28 May 2021

New reports have given more credence to the theory that COVID-19 may have been made in a lab, but the Biden administration says..
Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, stepped up his criticism of President Bidens decision to lift sanctions on the Nord Stream 2 pipeline on Wednesday, arguing the move was the cost of admission for the White Houses upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladmir Putin.
Bleacher Report AOL 26 May 2021

Former Sen. John Warner, who represented Virginia in the US Senate for three decades, has died a, former staff member told CNN. He..
Detectives also learned that Swenson was living with his wife under the name Kevin Crowley, the sheriffs statement said. They used various databases to discover that he had recently used the name Kevin Crowley to obtain a fishing license. The two vehicles, a camper, and a boat at his home in Spring Hill were all registered to Crowleys wife, the statement said.
A Texas hospital that has been treating migrant children for a range of concerns after their trek across the Southern border has not gotten any reimbursement from the Biden administration for their more than $200,000 in health care costs, the hospital told Fox News Thursday.
President Bidens pick as chief legal counsel for the U.S. intelligence community refused to renounce the possibility of future work with the Chinese government or the tech giant Huawei.
Afghanistans capital has become an unlikely pandemic transit route for Pakistanis desperate to reach the riches of Saudi Arabia despite deteriorating security and the threat of bomb blasts. With most Gulf flights from Pakistan cancelled as the country is added to a growing number of coronavirus travel blacklists, thousands of workers are hoping to reach []
Indias government Thursday accused Twitter of working to undermine its legal system, escalating a battle between authorities and social media giants over new IT rules. The US company accused police of intimidation after they visited its offices in the capital New Delhi to serve a notice over an inquiry into a manipulated media label it []
For the first time in more than 3,000 years, Tasmanian devils have been born in the wild of the Australian mainland.
The Duke of Cambridge has delivered a highly personal farewell speech at the end of his Scottish tour, describing how the nation has shaped him and praising its people and values.
Scotlands Constitution and External Affairs Secretary is calling for an urgent meeting with Priti Patel on developing a more humane approach to immigration.
Kevin Clark, who played the excitable preteen drummer Freddy Jones (aka Spazzy McGee) in the 2003 film School of Rock, has died at age 32.



The professional drummer was killed early Wednesday when he was struck by a vehicle while riding his bike in Chicagos North Side neighborhood, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. Clarks sister told the paprer he was on his way home at the time of the accident. Police say a 20-year-old woman was driving the car that killed Clark. She was not arrested, but has been issued citations.



Clark was just 12 years old when he was cast in the 2003 comedy hit alongside Jack Black. He had no previous acting experience but had been drumming since the age of 3. The films director, Richard Linklater, had launched a nationwide search for talented elementary school-aged musicians that could actually play the music featured in the movie and its soundtrack themselves.



The film, starring Black as a failed rocker who becomes a substitute teacher at a private elementary school who turns his class into a nascent rock band, grossed an impressive $81.3 million domestically. It also spawned a 2015 Broadway musical with a score by Andrew Lloyd Webber that ran for three years and earned four Tony nominations.



Hes just a raw talent. Hes got a heart of gold, Clarks mother, Allison, told the Sun-Times. He just kind of shined. He took it on right away, but he never really acted afterward.



In 2015, Clark participated in a live reunion show with the entire cast, including Black. He also caught up with the actor backstage at a 2018 Tenacious D concert, where he presented Black with a custom shirt for his own band, Dreadwolf.



Prior to his death, Clark had played in several bands in the Chicago area, including his most recent project, Jess Bess and the Intentions, which had its first live show on Saturday, according to his mother. They were unbelievably fantastic and they wouldve gone somewhere. she told the Sun-Times.



Check out one of Clarks scenes from School of Rock below.
Juan Williams announced Wednesday evening that he will leave The Five but remain on Fox News as a political analyst.



This is my last day hosting The Five, Williams said during the show May 26. Covid taught me a lot of lessons. As the show goes back to the New York studio, I will be staying in D.C. I will be working for Fox out of Washington. My work as a Fox News political analyst will continue.



Check out the full clip of Williams departure announcement and a highlight reel of his time at The Five at the top of the page.



Williams has been a Fox News contributor since 1997. He joined The Five in 2011 as one of its liberal voices alongside co-hosts Greg Gutfeld, Dana Perino and Jesse Watters.



More to come







Juan Williams announces hes leaving The Five. Hes staying in DC as the show returns to New York. pic.twitter.com/kYfPUUcewX



 Geoff Pilkington (@geoffpilkington) May 26, 2021
US President Joe Biden has this week ordered American intelligence officials to "redouble" their efforts to investigate the origins of the Covid-19 pandemic, including any possibility the trail might lead to a Chinese laboratory....
Its important for you to know that I heard you, Mina wrote in a letter to Hughes, which she later posted on the NAACP chapters Facebook page. In light of the national landscape, where law enforcement is concerned, I understand how my social media posts  which admittedly lacked proper context  could be triggering and seen as insensitive to some in our community. For that, as I said in our face-to-face meeting, I am truly sorry.
OPINION: As the man who enjoys the reputation of being Europe's last dictator, Alexander Lukashenko, the president of Belarus, is used to getting his own way.Last year, when opposition politicians claimed victory in the country's...
President Joe Biden on Wednesday urged Congress to "take immediate action" on gun legislation in the wake of a shooting in San Jose,...
Eurasia Review 29 May 2021

By Michael Eisenstadt*



Since the creation of the Islamic Republic in 1979, Iran has distinguished itself (along with..
NPR's Ailsa Chang talks with The Wall Street Journal's Michael Gordon on President Biden's order to investigate the origins of COVID-19 and how U.S. intelligence doesn't prioritize pandemic detection.
A positive development occurred between South Korea and the US last week with the signing of agreements to boost important parts of their relationship. The Seoul-Washington relationship is moving forward quickly, with South Korean President Moon Jae-in visiting US President Joe Biden in the White House on Friday. This summit...
Dallas, TX  As COVID-19 numbers decrease and state appears to open up again, many adults in Texas are finding that their anxiety and stress levels remain high, even as the risk of catching COVID-19 after vaccination remains low. Dr. Surin Sehdev, a psychiatrist in Dallas and owner of Aware Behavioral Health, recommends people that continue to struggle with anxiety, depression or insomnia consider a professional evaluation. What we lived through 
The disparities of the coronavirus pandemic were already stark in India, where access to health care is as stratified and unequal as other parts of its society
AGENCY [mdash]MaryAnn Wanner, 75, of Agency, died at 4:45 a.m. June 9, 2021 at Ridgewood Specialty Care. She was born February 18, 1946 in Lake City, IA to Lubbert and Erma DeVries. She married Martin Joseph Wanner and he preceded her in death on March 18, 2021. MaryAnn had worked as a beaut
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BEIJING, May 27 -- The 18th ASEAN Regional Forum Security Policy Conference (ASPC) was held via a video link on the morning of May 27, according to Senior Colonel Tan Kefei, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of National Defense (MND) at a regular press conference today.

During the meeting, the participants exchanged views on international and regional issues, threats and challenges of emerging technologies to defense security, the buildup of mutual trust and development cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region, etc.

The leader of the Office for International Military Cooperation under the Central Military Commission (CMC) of the Peoples Republic of China attended the event and clarified Chinas views on current international and regional landscapes. He stressed that in dealing with unprecedented challenges, all countries are supposed to get united to the utmost, stand on the right side of history and adhere to the true multilateralism.

In addition, he commended the important role of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) in safeguarding regional peace and stability, expounded Chinas position and propositions on the militarization of emerging technologies, and put forward suggestions on developing defense and security cooperation in the context of spreading global pandemic.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of China-ASEAN dialogue relations. "The Chinese military will continue to actively participate in relevant ASEAN-led defense security cooperation mechanisms, and make more contributions to the development of the China-ASEAN strategic partnership and the maintenance of regional peace, stability, development and prosperity," Tan said.
The President and Congress must do much more this year to expand coverage and affordability. Bidens current proposal, the American Families Plan, would make improved ACA affordability provisions in ARPA permanent  but it doesnt include any plan to close the coverage gap for the millions who cant get access to Medicaid because of political gridlock that has blocked Medicaid expansion in our state. It also doesnt include any plan to lower the price of prescription drugs, even though the president has acknowledged that action is needed on this issue  which also impacts me.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The CEOs of the six biggest U.S. banks went before Congress Wednesday, eager to lay out their support for struggling consumers and small businesses hard hit by the pandemic.

But lawmakers focused more keenly in a Senate hearing on the contentious social and political issues dividing the country.

Climate change, voting rights and racial inequity animated the debate and questioning of the executives in a hearing by the Senate Banking Committee. Democrats demanded the Wall Street powerhouses do more to help struggling minority communities. Republicans warned against promoting social activism through banking practices.

Profits have gone up, stock prices have soared, your own compensation is stratospheric  but workers get a smaller and smaller share of the wealth they create and theyre working harder than ever, Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown of Ohio, the committee chairman, told the CEOs. We have a racial wealth and income gap that has barely budged since we passed the Civil Rights Act. Prove to us that you are going to use your positions to ... make our economy work for everyone  not just CEOs and the wealthy.

Sen. Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania, the panels senior Republican, said the banking industry showed remarkable resilience during the pandemic recession as he mounted a robust defense of capitalism. Toomey echoed an idea with growing cultural currency among conservatives, voicing concern about increased pressure on banks to embrace wokeism and promote social activism through their policies.

The chief executives of JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, Wells Fargo, Bank of America, Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs appeared via video for the hearing by the Senate panel, which will be followed by a House committee session on Thursday.

The CEOs appeared as the U.S. economy is recovering from the recession. Big banks profits surged in the first three months of the year as the recovery took hold. They were able to release billions of dollars from their loan-loss reserves originally set aside in the early days of the pandemic last year.

The industry, which was blamed for the Great Recession more than a decade ago, has spent most of 2020 and this year trying to appear helpful and willing to work with borrowers and businesses. Banks across the country waived fees and put millions of mortgages into forbearance to shore up Americans distressed finances in the pandemic.

Citi quickly took action through a comprehensive approach to provide immediate, on-the-ground relief, Jane Fraser, the new Citigroup CEO, testified.

Most of the banks relief measures were meant to be temporary and are now going away. Senators pushed the CEOs to promise they would not force anyone into foreclosure or bankruptcy resulting from pandemic hardship after the measures expired. Democratic senators also pushed hard on what banks are doing to increase diversity in their ranks, and to address wealth inequality between Black and Latino households and white households.

Youve heard from everyone on this panel that were trying to do more, said JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon, in response to questions on how well banks were doing in lending to minorities and the poor.

Brown criticized the banks for reducing lending to small businesses gutted by the pandemic while buying back their own stock. Bank of America, he said, reduced small business lending by 14% while buying back tens of billions of dollars worth of its stock. CEO Brian Moynihan parried the attack, saying, The good news is that we can do both.

Challenged by Brown on the wide gulf between bank CEOs compensation and average employees pay, Dimon responded, Were very proud of the opportunities we give to all of our people.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., a longtime critic of the big banks, pushed hard on why they collected overdraft fees on checking accounts during the pandemic.

In a tense exchange, she called Dimon the king of the overdraft fee, maintaining that JPMorgan collects more than seven times in fees per account than its competitors.

Dimon disputed the accuracy of Warren's figures. The bank says that last year it waived fees on over 1 million deposit accounts, including overdraft fees, with no questions asked. JPMorgan Chase has an account called Secure Banking with no overdraft fee and says it makes other accommodations to customers in specific situations.

Warren said the past year has shown that corporate profits are more important to your bank than helping struggling people.

Republicans, now in the minority in Congress after the latest national elections, renewed their warnings against seeking new regulations for the banking industry as a solution to problems. They praised programs created by Congress last year and renewed in early 2021 such as the Paycheck Protection Program that has funneled hundreds of billions in forgivable loans to small businesses. U.S. banks helped distribute more than $700 billion in loans under the program through late May.

Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., challenged some of the CEOs on their public opposition to Georgias new Republican election law. Critics say the sweeping rewrite of Georgias election rules will restrict voting access, especially for voters of color, and it has become a flashpoint in the polarized political battle cleaving the country.
LONDON (AP)  Privacy campaign groups filed legal complaints Thursday with European regulators against Clearview AI, alleging the facial recognition technology it provides to law enforcement agencies and businesses breaches stringent European Union privacy rules.

Four groups complained to data protection authorities in France, Austria, Greece, Italy and the U.K. about Clearview's practices. They say the company stockpiled biometric data on more than 3 billion people without their knowledge or permission by scraping" their images from websites.

The complaints say Clearview didn't have any legal basis to collect and process this data under the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation, which covers facial image data. Britain adopted its own version of the EU privacy rules after it left the bloc.

Clearview AI has never had any contracts with any EU customer and is not currently available to EU customers," CEO Hoan Ton-That said in a statement.

News of Clearview's stockpile, first reported by The New York Times, raised concerns that the type of surveillance seen in China could happen in Western democracies.

Privacy International said European data protection laws clearly outline the purposes for which companies can use personal data.

Extracting our unique facial features or even sharing them with the police and other companies goes far beyond what we could ever expect as online users," said Ioannis Kouvakas, London-based Privacy International's legal officer.

Italy's Hermes Center for Transparency and Digital Human Rights, Greece's Homo Digitalis and Austria's noyb were also part of the challenge. The complaints are partly based on requests individuals can file to see what data a company holds on them. Ton-That said Clearview voluntarily processed" the requests, which "only contain publicly available information, just like thousands of others we have processed."

Clearview is already facing global scrutiny.

American civil liberties activists filed a similar legal challenge in March that sought to bar Clearview from collecting biometric information in California and force it to delete data on Californians collected from sites including Facebook, Twitter, Google and Venmo.

Meanwhile, privacy watchdogs in Britain, Australia and Canada have opened investigations into the company.

___

For all of APs tech coverage, visit https://apnews.com/apf-technology

___

Follow Kelvin Chan at https://www.twitter.com/chanman
DETROIT (AP)  The city of Detroit has received a $30 million federal grant that will help implement a plan to bring more affordable housing to one of its older neighborhoods.

The funding through the Department of Housing and Urban Development was announced Wednesday by Mayor Mike Duggan.

Detroit is one of five cities selected for the Choice Neighborhoods grant program. The $30 million will be supported by more than $1 billion in commitments from grant partners, according to the city.

The Greater Corktown neighborhood is just outside downtown. It now is in line to see more than $200 million invested in 840 new units of housing expected to be completed over the next six years. Just over 500 units will be set aside as affordable housing.

This is the city we are trying to build, where longtime Detroiters know they wont be pushed out by development and where residents of all income levels can live side by side in quality housing in any neighborhood in the city, Duggan said.

The redevelopment plan includes razing 87 townhome-style units built in 1985 on one site and rebuilding them in phases. Current residents would have the option to remain in the newly built units or given priority to move into another property in Corktown. Their current rents would be continued based on their income, the city said.
LANSING, Mich. (AP)  Michigan Republicans on Wednesday revised a contentious bill that would have required voters to attach a copy of their photo ID when mailing an absentee ballot application, saying they could include their driver's license number or the last four digits of their Social Security number instead.

It was the second time in weeks that the GOP-led Senate Elections Committee relaxed a key proposal in legislation that would tighten voting rules. Democrats said the measure remains flawed, would make it harder to vote and looks to solve nonexistent problems.

Voters currently seeking an absentee ballot must sign the application. The signature is matched to the signature in the voter file.

Meghan Reckling, chief of staff for Sen. Lana Theis, a Brighton Republican and sponsor of the bill, said not requiring proof of identity to request a ballot by mail is a glaring loophole. It was not immediately clear why the measure was amended, though opponents had noted that not all voters can print a copy of their ID at home.

Another bill would toughen an existing photo ID requirement at polling places. Voters without one  estimated to be less than 1%  could no longer sign an affidavit and cast a ballot that is counted on Election Day. Instead, they and absentee voters without an ID would vote a provisional ballot and have to verify their identity with the local clerk within six days for it to be tabulated.

There is no doubt that requiring identification verification is critical to ensuring the integrity of our election process moving forward, Reckling said.

But Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, a Democrat, said current voter ID laws work and that the legislation would do nothing more than disenfranchise voters. State Attorney General Dana Nessel, also a Democrat, said sending personally identifiable information through the mail absolutely" increases people's chances of being victimized by identity theft.

The panel did not vote on any bills. It has held a weekly hearing on the 39-bill package for six weeks.

Several measures would be vetoed by Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. But the state Republican Party has said it plans a maneuver that would enable the Legislature to pass them into law if enough signatures were gathered.

Also Wednesday, the GOP-led House voted largely along party lines to make it a felony to knowingly submit an absentee ballot application with false information or try to apply for multiple ballots. The measures went to the Senate for consideration. The governor vetoed identical legislation in October, saying voter fraud already is a crime and that the legislation likely would have confused voters.

___

Follow David Eggert at https://twitter.com/DavidEggert00
LANSING, Mich. (AP)  The Michigan House on Wednesday passed another bill that would allow people to expunge first-time drunken driving convictions from their records after five years, hoping the governor won't veto the measure a second time.

The Legislature passed a larger, bipartisan package of so-called clean slate bills last year, but Gov. Gretchen Whitmer pocket vetoed a separate bill that included the initial drunken driving conviction expungement option by letting it expire without signing it.
Midland County officials on Thursday announced plans for some local Memorial Day observances on Monday.

However, for the second year, there will be no Memorial Day Parade in Midland.

There will be a ceremony at the Veteran section of the Midland Municipal Cemetery at 8 a.m. Monday. Immediately following, a Naval Ceremony for deceased Naval personnel will take place at the walking bridge that crosses Stoney Creek at Emerson Park.

At 9 a.m., American Legion Post 165 is hosting a presentation of wreaths at the Midland County Veterans Memorial located at the front of the Midland County Courthouse.

Operation Iraqi Freedom Army widow, Melissa Alex is the keynote speaker. Alex is the Michigan Survivor Outreach Services support coordinator for the region. She works with veterans, spouses and their children as an advocate.

Guest speakers for the Memorial Day Ceremony include U.S. Rep. John Moolenaar, State Sen. Jim Stamas and Michigan Rep. Annette Glenn.

The Midland American Legion plans on holding a Memorial Day Parade to honor fallen veterans next year.
HELENA, Mont. (AP)  Montanas top prosecutor issued an opinion Thursday labeling critical race theory and some antiracism programs taught in schools as discriminatory and said they violate federal and state law.

Republican Attorney General Austin Knudsens decision bans the activities  which are also used for employee training  in the state. It came after Republican Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen requested earlier this month for Knudsen to weigh in on the issue.

Montana with the decision became the latest of several Republican - controlled states to decry critical race theory as an attempt to pit racial groups against each other and teach that certain groups are responsible for injustices of the past. Supporters of the theory say it is a way to look at how race and racism have shaped the nation.

Knudsen's decision was slammed by the American Civil Liberties Union of Montana and the Montana Federation of Public Employees, which represents many government workers in the state, including school teachers and faculty at public universities.

The union's president, Amanda Curtis, accused Knudsen and Arntzen of working together to politicize school curriculum."

ACLU of Montana executive director Caitlin Borgmann accused them of trying to impose an alternate version of American history  one that erases the legacy of discrimination and lived experiences of Black and Brown people.

Our country needs to acknowledge its history of systemic racism and reckon with the present-day impacts of racial discrimination  this includes being able to teach and talk about these concepts in our schools, Borgmann said in a statement.

Knudsen's binding opinion states that certain activities that fall under the umbrella of critical race theory teaching violate the U.S. and state constitutions.

They include grading students differently based on race; forcing people to admit privilege or reflect on their racial identities; assigning fault, blame or bias to a race; and offering training or assignments that force students or employees to support concepts such as racial privilege.

Schools and government and public workplaces could lose state funding and could be liable for damages from lawsuits if they offer critical race theory training or activities, Knudsen's office said in a statement.

Committing racial discrimination in the name of ending racial discrimination is both illogical and illegal, Knudsen said in a statement. Montana law does not tolerate schools, other government entities, or employers implementing CRT and antiracist programming in a way that treats individuals differently on the basis of race or that creates a racially hostile environment.

The attorney generals office encouraged students and parents who believe they experience illegal discrimination under critical race theory programming to sue their schools directly or file complains with the U.S. Department of Education.

Arntzen welcomed the decision, saying it will stop outside philosophies from affecting public education in the state.

I am completely supportive of students learning multiple viewpoints of our history to encourage critical thinking, she said in a statement. But she said critical race theory distorts our shared history and too often is used to demean and belittle students based on the color of their skin through segregation, stereotyping, and scapegoating."

Travis McAdams, a program director with the Montana Human Rights Network, said the opinion creates unnecessary confusion around racism and how it impacts people in Montana.

Knudsen and Arntzen are implying that discussions about real-life examples of discrimination, bias, and privilege are somehow racist, and that is completely false, McAdams said.

___

Samuels is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
"Happy Birthday to me, Happy Birthday to me" might be the common tune going through ones head when washing their hands; a song the CDC suggests to sing through twice in order to effectively handwash long enough to kill germs and stop the spread of viruses.

In a new pop-up exhibit that just opened at Midland Center for the Arts, the microscopic world of viruses, bacteria and other microbes are under review as patrons can discover what makes us sick and how we can combat these with various healthy living choices.

At the intersection of science and art we are able to develop and create unique and interactive exhibits that can educate our community, giving families a fun experience for the day, said Terri Trotter, Midland Center for the Arts president and CEO. While our Museum of Science & Art remains closed and without power due to the flood, we are reimagining our Brick Lobby as a pop-up Museum experience for this exhibit and for visual art displays.

From the Inside Out was designed to lighten the conversation on germs and their role in the world through limited contact activities like the Germ Shooting Range and a giant Operation Game, as well as the New York Hall of Sciences traveling exhibits that delve into the facts about transmission and prevention.

We are thrilled to feature this experience as part of this exhibit which uses the novel coronavirus as a teaching moment on what a virus is, how it spreads, whats special about COVID-19 and why its important for scientists in different countries to share information globally, mentioned Director of Museums Julie Johnson.

Both of the New York Hall of Sciences exhibit, Science Behind the News: Viruses and Science Behind the News: Vaccines will be available in English and Spanish to understand this ongoing conversation to inform communities around the globe to empower them to feel confident in understanding the facts.

After our world was shaken this past year, understanding how we can combat the spread of germs, protect ourselves, our families, and stay informed on the science behind the spread of deadly viruses like COVID-19, DuPont is proud to support this exhibit in offering free admission for the community to learn about the science, mentioned Kayley Lyons, DuPonts community relations leader. From the Inside Out is a great exploration for the entire family and for people of all ages.

This exhibit is now open weekly through Sept. 4 in the Brick Lobby at Midland Center for the Arts. Visitors can explore From the Inside Out from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursdays, and noon to 4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Learn more about this exhibit along with other pop-up exhibits around the community by visiting midlandcenter.org. Free admission to this exhibit has been made possible through the support of DuPont.
CAIRO (AP)  Egypts president met Tuesday with Qatars chief diplomat amid improved relations since Egypt and three Gulf nations ended their dispute with the energy-rich country in January.

President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi and Qatars Foreign Minister Mohammad bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, meeting in Cairo, agreed on "intensifying joint consultation and coordination to boost bilateral ties between the two nations, el-Sissis office said in a statement.

El-Sissi also received an invitation from Qatars emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to visit Doha. It would be the first for the Egyptian leader to the Gulf state since he led the militarys overthrow of an elected Islamist president in 2013 amid mass protests against his divisive one-year rule. El-Sissi was defense minister at the time.

The Qatari chief diplomat also held talks with Egypts Foreign Minister Sameh Shukry that discussed the positive development in ties between the two countries, according to a statement by Egypts Foreign Ministry.

A January declaration put an end to a diplomatic crisis that began in 2017 with a rift between Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain on one side and Qatar on the other.

The four countries had jointly boycotted Qatar and hoped an embargo and media blitz would pressure it to end its close relations with Turkey and Iran. Egypt and the UAE view the support by Qatar and Turkey of Islamist groups like the Muslim Brotherhood as a security threat. Saudi Arabia and Bahrain were primarily concerned about Qatars ties with Iran.

The countries accused Qatar of cozying up to Iran and financing extremist groups in the region, though Doha denied the charges. Qatar-based Al-Jazeera was at the center of the dispute. The four nations demanded its closure among other measures, which Qatar rejected.

Egypt's Foreign Ministry said the ministers discussed taking further measures to promote the positive atmosphere in their bilateral ties. It did not elaborate on details.

Shukry said in televised comments Friday that the implementation of the January agreement between the five nations would further accelerate restoring ties between Cairo and Doha.

Tuesday's statement by the Foreign Ministry said joint committees concluded a new round of talks and would continue discussing lingering issues to fully implement that agreement. It did not elaborate.

The two countries formally began rapprochement earlier this year, but it was not clear how far or how quickly, that would go, in real terms, said H.A. Hellyer, scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and Cambridge University.

This latest visit confirms that there is indeed more than a simply signing of letters, as it was. The Egyptians and the Qataris want to move to another stage, which certainly impacts the existing geopolitical arrangements of the region, he said.

The two diplomats also discussed other regional topics, including a decade-long dispute between Egypt, Sudan and Ethiopia over a massive dam Ethiopia is building on the main tributary of the Nile River, the statement added. Egypt and Sudan deem the Ethiopian dam a major threat to their water security.

The Qatari foreign minister then left to Doha. He had arrived in Cairo late Monday from a trip to Khartoum where he met with Sudanese officials, his first visit to Sudan after an uprising led to the militarys ouster of Omar al-Bashir in April 2019. Al-Bashir, an Islamist, was an ally to Qatar.

The Qatari foreign minister also traveled to Libya earlier this week. He met with the newly appointed transitional government in Tripoli that has been struggling to unite the divided North African country before an election scheduled in December. Egypt and Qatar have been backing opposing sides in war-torn Libya.
Perhaps most glaringly, weve seen how complex social issues such as equitable access to quality education and health care have overwhelmed many of our communities; while these issues have become increasingly apparent during the pandemic, lets make no mistake: they have existed for too long. Sadly, many of the existing inequities even have been recognized as norms. But it is not the norm, and these deep-seated systemic problems affect all of us, including our children.
The following list includes recent reports from the Midland County Sheriffs Office and the Midland Police Department. Compiled by reporter Andrew Mullin.

May 26, 2021:

10:25 p.m.  A deputy stopped a 38-year-old female. During the contact, it was discovered the female did not have a valid driver's license or insurance on the vehicle. She also had a misdemeanor warrant out of Saginaw. The female was cited for driving with a suspended license and no insurance. She was arrested and transported to Saginaw for her warrant. A report is being sent to the prosecuting attorneys office.

10:01 p.m.  Officers responded to a driver operating with a suspended license.

9:15 p.m.  Deputies were dispatched to a Jerome Township residence regarding a 52-year-old male reporting that someone is using his deceased father's Social Security Number. Deputies were unable to locate any evidence that a fraud has taken place.

8:36 p.m.  Deputies were dispatched to a Jasper Township residence for a verbal domestic situation. Upon arrival, deputies contacted a 70-year-old Jasper Township female and a 75-year-old Jasper Township male. Both parties advised they had a verbal argument. The parties remained separated for the night.

8:01 p.m.  A deputy responded to an Edenville Township residence, where a 49-year-old Edenville Township male reported his Xbox was stolen. The male believed his 42-year-old female roommate took the Xbox to another unknown location. The male did not want to pursue charges but wanted his Xbox back. The deputy spoke with the female about the incident and she denied stealing the Xbox.

3:33 p.m.  Deputies responded to Warren Township for a report of a metal object in the roadway. Deputies searched the area but did not locate any metal.

3:10 p.m.  The Midland County Sherriffs Office Detective Bureau received a referral from the Department of Health & Human Services alleging that a 13-year-old boy was acting out sexually and told people at school that he had sex with his babysitter. A parent was contacted and indicated that her child was acting out because of his autism and that he never had a babysitter and that allegations of sexual contact were false.

3:10 p.m.  Officers responded to a case of fraud on Hidden Pines Court.

12:55 p.m.  An Animal Control Deputy received a call from a Midland resident. Caller advised that her indoor cat had gotten out of her house a couple of days ago and gone into a backyard shed. She has been unable to get it out of the shed and inquired about utilizing a live trap to lure it out of the shed so she can get it back into the house. Caller was provided with a live trap.

11:34 a.m.  An Animal Control Deputy received a call from a Warren Township resident about a neighbors dogs running loose and coming onto the caller's property. Contact was made with the dog owner and he was advised that he must keep his dogs on his property, on a leash, or in an enclosure. Verbal warning was issued at this time.

10:15 a.m.  An Animal Control Deputy received several calls of an apparently ill raccoon in a subdivision in the city of Midland. Raccoon did appear to be acting abnormally and was removed from the area.

9:48 a.m.  Deputies responded to a Mills Township residence about a larceny complaint. A 71-year-old Mills Township male reported that someone stole approximately $250 worth of vehicle parts that were on his property. There are no suspects currently.

8:33 a.m.  Officers responded to a case of larceny on West Wackerly Road.

4:58 a.m.  Deputies conducted a traffic stop on a 40-year-old female for speeding and erratic driving. Upon contacting the female, deputies discovered that she was having a medical emergency and could not breathe. Deputies performed CPR on the female until EMS arrived on scene. Deputies completed an OC-88 form.

4:05 a.m.  A 64-year-old male reported seeing flashlights in his yard. The area was checked, and nothing was found.

3:25 a.m.  A deputy blocked a lane of traffic due to a downed tree until the fire department could remove the tree from the roadway.

3:06 a.m.  A deputy assisted a 70-year-old Mount Haley Township woman with a bat in her house. The bat was removed.

1:25 a.m.  A deputy stopped a 25-year-old male for having a brake light out. During the contact it was discovered the male did not have a driver's license. The male was cited for DWLS and was given a verbal warning for the brake light. A report is being sent to the prosecuting attorneys office.
You just know that you are giving them such a much better life and a much better experience than they would have had, Tracey Griffis said.
DECATUR  Rows of police officers stood at parade rest waiting for the casket containing the earthly remains of Officer Chris Oberheim on Wednesday, patient and so silent that you could hear birds chirping in the trees surrounding Maranatha Assembly of God.

But when the shouted order came from the doors of the church, every spine snapped straight and every officer came to attention. A second shouted order, and every one of them saluted, while the pipe and drum corps played and the flag-draped casket was carried to the waiting hearse.

Parked in front of the church was a Champaign police car, draped in black ribbon. Members of the Patriot Guard stood ready with flags and a motorcycle escort for the hearse, waiting in the still, muggy air.

As the police vehicles lined up for the procession to the cemetery in Monticello, seemingly every agency in Illinois was represented: Orland Park; Streamwood; Deerfield; East Peoria; O'Fallon, Ogle County, Libertyville, Kendall County; and many more. The Decatur and Champaign police departments were represented by several vehicles each. Officers from other states, including Indiana and Texas, also joined the procession.

Oberheim was killed early May 19 during a shootout at an apartment complex. Officers had gone there in response to a report about a domestic disturbance and encountered the armed suspect. A second officer was wounded. The suspect, 24-year-old Darion Marquise Lafayette of Champaign, was killed in the shootout.

Champaign County court records show Lafayette had previous arrests for domestic violence and drug possession.

A 1994 graduate of Stephen Decatur High School, Oberheim began his law enforcement career as a Decatur police officer. He served the department for seven years before he joined the Champaign Police Department in 2008. His younger brother, Joe, still is with the Decatur department.

A procession carrying Oberheim's body left the church before 1:30 p.m., traveling along the west side of Decatur to Interstate 72 en route to Monticello for burial in Monticello Township Cemetery.

The crowds lining the procession route became silent, many with their hands over their hearts, as the hearse and a line of police vehicles passed by.

Liz Bartimus taught Oberheim and his siblings at Mound School in Decatur and attended his funeral. Oberheims brother, Greg, is married to her adopted niece, Michelle.

Teachers never know how students will make their mark on the world but I always knew Chris and his siblings would do well wherever they landed because they were raised with lots of love and a strong work ethic, she said Listening to Chris' service, his commitment to his family, community and job left a large impact on many people. The ripple effect of his death will be felt for a long time. I never really understood the support and family created when becoming a first responder until today. It was palpable and visibly evident all around me...many glistening eyes among the men and women in blue.

Oberheim lived in Monticello with his wife and four daughters and was very active in the community.

Although many were unable to attend the funeral services, the Monticello community wanted to show their appreciation, support and love for the Oberheim family. Hours before the procession was scheduled to arrive, the route to the Monticello cemetery was lined with flags, blue bows, lawn chairs and people ready to honor the fallen officer.

Ashlee Burton, owner of an apartment building on State Street, was tying blue bows around pillars in front of the building. They are for the officers that go out and fight for our community, she said. We just want them to know that we support them.

The blue bows, purchased as a fundraiser from the Monticello Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club, were displayed on various buildings, vehicles and signs since the announcement of the funeral procession route. I have four here and more that Im putting up at home, Burton said.

Burton said she is close with extended Oberheim family members. But Im trying to give them space, she said.

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Further down State Street were retired couple Ted and Kathy Bachman, who also spent Wednesday morning attaching blue bows to the columns of their home. They just came in last night, Ted Bachman said.

The funds are going to go to a charity of Ambers choice, Kathy Bachman said, referring to Oberheims wife.

The couple recently returned to Monticello after living and working in Chicago, but did not know the Oberheim family. However, they still wanted to honor the fallen officer.

Especially during this time where police are disparagingly having funding taken away, Ted Bachman said. And here this guy gives his life.

The towns reaction to Oberheims death and his family made an impression on the Bachmans.

Something like this affects everybody, Ted Bachman said.

Cari Loudenburg brought two of her children, Asher, 11, and Ellasyn, 14, to a spot along Market Street in Monticello. They stood waiting for the funeral procession holding a blue and black striped Thin Blue Line flag. My husband is a police officer in Bloomington, Cari Loudenburg said as she fought back tears. This is a good experience to see.

The family understands the worries of sending their father and husband to work as a patrol officer. We felt heartbreak for the family, Loudenburg said. This is a really bad time for officers in general.

The funeral procession was the first for the Loudenburg children. However, they have attended police rallies with the Thin Blue Line Flag in the past. To show our support for the police, Asher said.

As the time grew closer for the police officers arrival, the bystanders discussed the impact on Monticello, schools and families.

Louanna Miller and her husband David Miller waited with neighbors and community members along State Street. Its been very somber this week, Louanna Miller said about the atmosphere. The last few days when they started putting up flags to line the procession route, that made it even more somber.

The couple have witnessed the community come together for the Oberheim family as well as for one another. In a small town like this, thats what people do, David Miller said.

The couple placed a wreath, decorated with red, white and blue flowers and draped with blue and black ribbon, near the edge of the road. The plan was to use the patriotic door decoration for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend. But Im going to leave it that way, Louanna Miller said. Its a difficult time for family, friends, for our community, for the country.

As the Piatt County School Mental Health Clinician, Louanna Miller spent much of the past week in the schools providing support and counselling for students and teachers. The conversations revolved around tragic loss and unexpected death, according to Louanna Miller. I talked to a lot of staff and teachers too, she said.

Along with classmates and teachers, the therapist spoke with children of other police officers. Just because of the suddenness and the reality of this, she said. And now its been brought home to our small town of Monticello with an officer that lives here.

With the Oberheim death so recent, advice is not needed, according to Louanna Miller. At this point, its really listening, she said. Everybody is in a state of shock at that time.

Contact Donnette Beckett at (217) 421-6983. Follow her on Twitter: @donnettebHR

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SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP)  An employee opened fire Wednesday at a California rail yard, killing eight people before taking his own life as law enforcement rushed in, authorities said, marking the latest attack in a year that has seen a sharp increase in mass killings as the nation emerges from coronavirus restrictions.

The shooting took place around 6:30 a.m. in two buildings at a light rail facility for the Valley Transportation Authority, which provides bus, light rail and other transit services throughout Santa Clara County, the most populated county in the San Francisco Bay Area.

When our deputies went through the door, initially he was still firing rounds. When our deputy saw him, he took his life, Santa Clara County Sheriff Laurie Smith told reporters. Deputies were going through hallways saying, Sheriffs office! He knew at that time that his time for firing shots was over.

The victims, many of them longtime employees of the transit agency, were identified by the Santa Clara County coroner's office Wednesday night as Paul Delacruz Megia, 42; Taptejdeep Singh, 36; Adrian Balleza, 29; Jose Dejesus Hernandez, 35; Timothy Michael Romo, 49; Michael Joseph Rudometkin, 40; Abdolvahab Alaghmandan, 63, and Lars Kepler Lane, 63.

Their jobs included bus and light rail operators, mechanics, linemen and assistant superintendent. One had worked for the transit authority since 1999.

Singh had worked as a light rail train driver for eight or nine years and had a wife, two small children and many family members, said his cousin, Bagga Singh.

We heard that he chose the people to shoot, but I dont know why they choose him because he has nothing to do with him," he said. He said he was told that the gunman targeted certain people and let others go.

San Jose City Councilman Raul Peralez said Rudometkin was a close friend. There are no words to describe the heartache we are feeling right now, especially for his family, he wrote on Facebook. Eight families are feeling this same sense of loss tonight and our entire community is mourning as well.

The attacker was identified as 57-year-old Sam Cassidy, according to two law enforcement officials. Investigators offered no immediate word on a possible motive.

His ex-wife, Cecilia Nelms, told The Associated Press that Cassidy had a bad temper and would tell her that he wanted to kill people at work, but I never believed him, and it never happened. Until now.

Nelms, teary-eyed and shaken by the news, said her ex-husband would come home wound up and angry about things that happened at work. As he talked about it, he would get more mad, she said. He could dwell on things.

When Cassidy lost his temper, Nelms said there were times she was scared. He was someone who could physically hurt others, she said.

Nelms said they were married for 10 years  Cassidy filed for divorce in 2005  and had not been in contact for 13 years. She said he had been treated for depression.

Members of a union representing Valley Transportation Authority workers were meeting when the shooting began, San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo said, but its not clear the meeting was related to the attack.

When she heard shots, transit authority mechanic Rochelle Hawkins said she dropped her phone.

I was running so fast. I just ran for my life, she said. I would hope everyone would just pray for the VTA family. Just pray for us.

Other friends and family members awaited news after being unable to reach their loved ones through calls or text messages. Some had tracked the missing persons cellphone to the rail yard but had no information from authorities.

Sheriffs spokesman Deputy Russell Davis said he did not know the type of weapon used in the attack.

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As bomb squads searched the rail complex, officials were also investigating a house fire that broke out shortly before the shooting, Davis said. Public records show Cassidy owned the two-story home where firefighters responded after being notified by a passer-by. Law enforcement officers cordoned off the area near the home and went in and out Wednesday.

Doug Suh, who lives across the street, told The Mercury News in San Jose that Cassidy seemed strange" and that he never saw anyone visit.

Id say hello, and hed just look at me without saying anything, Suh said. Once, Cassidy yelled at him to stay away as he was backing up his car. After that, I never talked to him again.

Cassidy had worked for Valley Transportation Authority since at least 2012, according to the public payroll and pension database Transparent California, first as a mechanic from 2012 to 2014, then as someone who maintained substations.

Gov. Gavin Newsom, speaking emotionally in front of a county office where flags flew at half-staff, said victims' relatives were "waiting to hear from the coroner, waiting to hear from any of us, just desperate to find out if their brother, their son, their dad, their mom is still alive.

It begs the damn question, What the hell is going on in the United States of America?

Another man wounded in the attack was in critical condition at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, spokesperson Joy Alexiou said.

The bloodshed comes amid a rise in mass killings after the pandemic had closed many public places and kept people confined to their homes last year.

A database compiled by The Associated Press, USA Today and Northeastern University that tracks every mass killing over the last 15 years shows that the San Jose attack is the 15th mass killing so far in 2021, all of them shootings.

Eighty-six people have died in the shootings, compared with 106 for all of 2020. The database defines mass killings as four or more people dead, not including the shooter, meaning the overall toll of gun violence is much higher when adding in smaller incidents.

At the White House, President Joe Biden ordered flags to be flown at half-staff and urged Congress to act on legislation to curb gun violence.

Every life that is taken by a bullet pierces the soul of our nation. We can, and we must, do more, Biden said in a statement.

San Jose, the 10th-largest city in the U.S. with more than a million people, is about 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of San Francisco in the heart of Silicon Valley.

Trains were already out on morning runs when the shooting occurred. Light rail service was suspended and replaced with bus bridges.

Wednesday's attack was Santa Clara County's second mass shooting in less than two years. A gunman killed three people and then himself at a popular garlic festival in Gilroy in July 2019.

The Gilroy attack was on Mayor Liccardo's mind Wednesday as text messages flooded in, reporting the shooting and fire.

Not again," he thought as he jumped in his car and raced to City Hall. Transit authority workers told him they knew Cassidy.

You try to understand what would possess someone to do that much harm," Liccardo said by phone. Its unfathomable.



Associated Press writers Janie Har in San Francisco, John Antczak and Stefanie Dazio in Los Angeles, and Michael Balsamo and Colleen Long in Washington contributed to this report.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP)  A former NASA space shuttle commander indicted on reckless murder charges in the traffic deaths of two girls pleaded guilty to reduced charges Thursday nearly five years after the crash.

James Halsell Jr., 64, of Huntsville, pleaded guilty to two manslaughter and two assault charges during a hearing in which relatives of the victims wore shirts emblazoned with images of 11-year-old Niomi Deona James and 13-year-old Jayla Latrick Parler, killed when a car driven by Halsell slammed into one driven by their father in rural Tuscaloosa County.

While Halsell could have received 20 years for each manslaughter charge and 10 years for each assault charge, a judge agreed to probation and ordered him to spend four years in prison without early release followed by 10 years on supervised release. Halsell could be sent back to prison for 16 years if he violates probation after his release, said District Attorney Hays Webb, who opposed the lighter treatment.

The former astronaut, who went to work in the aerospace industry after leaving NASA in 2006, apologized in court and was taken into custody immediately the hearing. Outside court, the girls' mother, Latrice Parler, said relatives weren't pleased with the outcome.

It wasn't justice, said Parler, who told the judge about the last time she saw the children and recounted the anguish of losing them.

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My daughters were amazing, beautiful, smart, strong little girls that could have been anything in this world if they had the opportunity to grow up, but that was taken from me and all of everyone else in this world, Parler said. Halsell's apology didn't seem sincere, she said.

Webb said there were no winners in the case.

It serves as a reminder that theres a very fine line. You have someone who has been to space five times and, because of a bad decision on his part, wound up killing two girls, Webb told The Associated Press in an interview afterward.

Authorities alleged Halsell was under the influence of drugs or alcohol in June 2016, when he drove a rental car into the rear end of one carrying the girls on a remote highway. Halsell had been driving to Louisiana to pick up his son and wound up on a road he mistook for Interstate 20/59, authorities said.

The girls' father, Pernell James, and a woman were injured but recovered. James said Halsell should have received the maximum punishment but was instead given time to get his family and affairs in order before pleading guilty.

We didnt get that, James said.

The case was delayed for reasons including the complexity of the evidence, the death of a defense lawyer's father, a possible plea that fell through in 2019 and the pandemic, said Webb, but Halsell's status as a former astronaut had zero influence in any fashion on the outcome.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden is giving serious consideration to nominating Caroline Kennedy, the daughter of President John F. Kennedy who served as ambassador to Japan during the Obama administration, to serve in a high-profile ambassadorial role, according to a person familiar with the deliberations.

Biden is considering nominating her for another posting in Asia but details of where she might be asked to serve are still in flux, according to the individual who has knowledge about the ambassadorial selection process who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Kennedy served as former President Barack Obamas chief envoy to Tokyo for much of his second term in the White House

The White House declined to comment.

Kennedy, a scion of one of America's most high-profile political families, threw her support behind Biden relatively early in the crowded 2020 Democratic primary process. In a Boston Globe editorial to announce her endorsement, she praised Biden for his long career as a public servant and fondly recalled Biden visiting Tokyo as vice president while she was ambassador.

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(Biden) stepped off Air Force Two wearing his aviator glasses and a big smile, she wrote in the Globe ahead of the New Hampshire primary last year. He radiated American optimism and generosity of spirit. He made clear that America would always stand by our allies, and that we were committed to keeping the region peaceful and prosperous. He delivered tough messages as well, but he did it in private, with skill and respect."

Kennedy, along with her uncle Sen. Ted Kennedy, also offered a critical early endorsement to Obama in his 2008 run for the White House.

Biden is expected to soon announce his first major tranche of political ambassadorial nominations, according to White House officials.

The Associated Press has previously reported that he is expected to nominate former senior State Department official Nicholas Burns to serve in China, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti in India, former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel in Japan, and former deputy secretary of state Tom Nides to Israel.

Ken Salazar, a former colleague of Bidens in the Senate and Obama-era Interior Department secretary, is a top candidate for the Mexico ambassadorship. Cindy McCain, the widow of Republican Sen. John McCain and a longtime friend of the president and first lady Jill Biden, is under consideration for an ambassadorial position, including leading the U.N. World Food Program.

Prominent Democratic fundraisers Denise Bauer, Jane Hartley and David Cohen have also emerged as leading contenders for postings in France, Italy and Canada, respectively, according to people familiar with the White House deliberations but also not authorized to publicly comment on the matter. During the Obama administration, Bauer served as ambassador to Belgium, and Hartley was ambassador to France and Monaco. Cohen is a top executive at the cable company Comcast.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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WASHINGTON (AP)  Karine Jean-Pierre on Wednesday became the first openly gay woman to deliver the White House press briefing and only the second Black woman in history to take on the role.

Jean-Pierre, the White House principal deputy press secretary, had briefed reporters aboard Air Force One, but Wednesday marked her first time before the lectern for a televised briefing.

"It's a real honor to be standing here today," Jean-Pierre told reporters, when asked about her historic turn. "Clearly the president believes that representation matters, and I appreciate him giving me this opportunity."

Judy Smith, who served as deputy press secretary to President George H.W. Bush in 1991, was the first Black woman to take on the role.

Jean-Pierre is seen as a potential successor to current White House press secretary Jen Psaki, who has publicly said she only intends to serve in the role for about a year, and Wednesday's appearance was seen as an audition of sorts for the job. Jean-Pierre fields press requests and makes frequent appearances for the Biden administration on cable news.

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On Wednesday, like Psaki and generations of White House spokespeople before her, Jean-Pierre leaned heavily on a binder full of prepared notes and statements, as she fielded questions on topics including the Tokyo Olympics and the origins of the coronavirus pandemic.

Jean-Pierre, who was born in Martinique to Haitian emigrants and grew up in New York City, has spoken publicly about how her own experiences as an immigrant have informed her lengthy career in politics.

"I am everything that Donald Trump hates," she said in a video for progressive organization MoveOn in 2018. "I'm a Black woman, I'm gay, I am a mom. Both my parents were born in Haiti."

During the 2020 campaign, Jean-Pierre was now-Vice President Kamala Harris' chief of staff. She previously worked on both of Barack Obama's presidential campaigns, ultimately serving as national deputy battleground states director for the 2012 campaign. In between, Jean-Pierre worked in the Obama administration, serving as the White House liaison to the Labor Department and later as regional director in the White House Office of Political Affairs.

Jean-Pierre is one of a handful of potential Psaki successors, a list that includes Symone Sanders, Harris' chief spokesperson, who has tamped down speculation over her interest in the role. Sanders showed support for Jean-Pierre on Wednesday with a tweet offering her congratulations.

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SALEM, Ore. (AP)  Wearing soot-smudged, fire-resistant clothing and helmets, several wildland firefighters armed with hoes moved through a stand of ponderosa pines as flames tore through the underbrush.

The firefighters werent there to extinguish the fire. They had started it.

The prescribed burn, ignited this month near the scenic mountain town of Bend, is part of a massive effort in wildlands across the U.S. West to prepare for a fire season thats expected to be even worse than last years record-shattering one.

The U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management have thinned by hand, machines and prescribed burns about 1.8 million acres (728,000 hectares) of forest and brushland since last season, officials from the agencies told The Associated Press. They typically treat some 3 million (1.2 million hectares) acres every year.

All that activity, though, has barely scratched the surface. The federal government owns roughly 640 million acres (260 million hectares) in the U.S. All but 4% of it lies in the West, including Alaska, with some of it unsuitable for prescribed burning.

All these steps are in the right direction, but the challenge is big and complex, said John Bailey, professor of silviculture and fire management at Oregon State University. And more needs to be done to even turn the corner.

The efforts face a convergence of bleak forces.

Severe drought has turned forests and grasslands into dry fuels, ready to ignite from a careless camper or a lightning strike. More people are building in areas bordering wildlands, expanding the so-called wildland-urban interface, an area where wildfires impact people the most. Invasive, highly flammable vegetation is spreading uncontrolled across the West.

Im seeing probably the worst combination of conditions in my lifetime, said Derrick DeGroot, a county commissioner in southern Oregons Klamath County. We have an enormous fuel load in the forests, and we are looking at a drought unlike weve seen probably in the last 115 years.

Asked how worried he is about the 2021 fire season, DeGroot said: On a scale of 1 to 10, Im a 12. Nothing looks good.

In other prevention measures in the West, utility companies are removing vegetation around power lines and are ready to impose blackouts when those lines threaten to spark a fire.

Armies of firefighters are being beefed up. And communities are offering incentives for residents to make their own properties fire-resistant.

Still, much work remains to change the region's trajectory with fire, particularly in two key areas, said Scott Stephens, professor of wildland fire science at the University of California, Berkeley.

One is getting people better prepared for the inevitability of fire in areas like the wildland-urban interface. That includes new construction, he said. "And the second is getting our ecosystems better prepared for climate change and fire impacts.

On the local level, individuals and communities need to create defensible spaces and evacuation plans, he said. On the government level, more resources need to go toward managing forests.

I think weve got one to two decades," Stephens said. "If we dont do this in earnest, were frankly just going to be watching the forest change right in front of our eyes from fire, climate change, drought, insects, things of that nature.

Part of the issue is that increasing wildfire resilience often requires trade-offs, said Erica Fleishman, professor at Oregon State Universitys College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences.

Cities or states could require defensible spaces around homes. Building codes could call for fire-resistant materials. That would drive up construction costs but also mean homes would be less likely to burn and need rebuilding, she said.

The insurance industry and the building industry and communities and lawmakers are all going to need to have the will to create these changes, she said.

Fleishman also believes more prescribed fires could be conducted in the wildland-urban interface, but said society is risk averse.

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Right now, theres not, in many cases, a whole lot of will to do it, she said.

Prescribed burns target vegetation that carries flames into forest canopies, where they can explode into massive wildfires.

Planning and preparing for them can take two to five years. And carrying them out is a never-ending task, said Jessica Gardetto, spokeswoman for the National Interagency Fire Center, in Boise, Idaho.

While targeting one forest, other forests continue to grow, creating this vast buildup across the landscape, she said.

Besides overgrown forests, the West faces a newer threat: cheatgrass, which grows prolifically after a wildfire and becomes incredibly flammable.

Gardetto said trying to get rid of the invasive grass is like the endless toil of Sisyphus, the Greek mythological figure who was forced to roll a boulder up a hill, only for it to roll down as it neared the top, over and over again.

After a fire is put out, the first thing to come back is cheatgrass.

It starts this horrible cycle that is really difficult to combat, she said.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom and U.S. Forest Service Chief Vicki Christiansen signed an agreement last August committing the state and the federal agency to scale up treatment of forest and wildlands to 1 million acres (405,000 hectares) annually by 2025.

They have a long way to reach that goal. Cal Fire, a state agency responsible for protecting over 31 million acres (12.5 million hectares) of Californias privately owned wildlands, treated some 20,000 acres (8,100 hectares) with prescribed fire and thinning from last summer through March.

Meanwhile, California increased the number of seasonal firefighters by almost 50%, according to Lynne Tolmachoff, spokeswoman for Cal Fire.

With the fire season getting longer each year, Colorado lawmakers last spring allocated about $3 million to increase staffing at the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control, said Mike Morgan, its director.

Historically, wildland firefighters were college students. Theyd get out of school on Memorial Day, theyd go fight fire, and theyd go back to school on Labor Day, Morgan said. Well, now were having fires every month of the year, and so we need firefighters year-round.

The Bureau of Land Management is transforming its seasonal firefighting force to fulltime with a $13 million budget increase, Gardetto said.

Despite all these efforts, warnings are going out telling people to be ready for the worst.

The Oregon Office of Emergency Management advised residents on Monday to have a bag packed and have an evacuation plan.

Abnormally dry conditions and pre-season fires on the landscape are causing concern for the 2021 wildfire season, the agency said. Now is the time for Oregonians to prepare themselves, their families and their homes for wildfire.



Associated Press writers Don Thompson in Sacramento, California; Thomas Peipert in Denver; and Daisy Nguyen in San Francisco contributed to this report.



Follow Selsky on Twitter at https://twitter.com/andrewselsky

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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CHICAGO  The Chicago Police Department on Wednesday announced a policy on foot pursuits following the fatal shootings in late March of Adam Toledo and Anthony Alvarez, both of whom were shot and killed by officers who ran after them.

A temporary version of the policy will go into effect June 11, but residents and community leaders will have an opportunity to offer feedback before it becomes permanent in September, police Superintendent David Brown said at a Wednesday press conference.

Some of the highlights of the new temporary policy include: prohibiting foot pursuits for minor traffic violations; not allowing officers to separate from their partners if they cant see the person theyre chasing; stopping the chase if officers believe they wouldnt be able to control that person; and making attempts to contain a suspect to a particular area by notifying outside police units as an alternative to chasing them.

The policy also called for officers to use a so-called balancing test to determine whether a foot chase is appropriate, assessing the seriousness of the crime against whether a pursuit could put the suspect, officer or any bystanders at risk of getting hurt. It also says that officers can only pursue people on foot if they have probable cause that the person committed the crime or believe that theyre about to commit one.

On Wednesday at police headquarters, Brown said officers had already been using these strategies during foot chases, but now theyre codified for the first time in a written policy.

Officers could now be subject to disciplinary action if they violate it, he said.

Just putting it in a policy and codifying it, I think, is a best practice, Brown said. We want you (officers) to be safe in doing your job. We want everyone to be safe based on how we pursue...We want better outcomes for our officers and for the people of Chicago.

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The week after the fatal shootings of Toledo and Alvarez, Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced to reporters how the department would implement a foot pursuit policy by summer.

Her news conference that day, flanked by Brown, was held at a church in Little Village, the same neighborhood where Toledo, 13, was gunned down after a chase in an alley in late March.

The press briefing was part of an event aimed at calming the city ahead of the eventual release of video showing the teens killing.

Toledo was fatally shot by Officer Eric Stillman in the early morning hours of March 29 in a Little Village alley after a foot pursuit, touching off protests and demonstrations in the neighborhood. Various camera angles viewed at slower speeds appeared to show the teen tossed a gun and was turning with his hands raised when the officer fired a single shot into his chest.

Alvarez was shot and killed by Officer Evan Solano on March 31 in the Northwest Sides Portage Park neighborhood. On the police body-camera footage released by the Civilian Office of Police Accountability, officers can be seen running down an alley at first, then bearing down on Alvarez as they turn a corner onto a small lawn. Third-party camera footage that seems to be from a security camera from the home Alvarez was shot in front of shows him release a gun as he falls to the ground, and police have said a gun was found on the scene.

Lightfoots call for a foot-chase policy came four years after the U.S. Justice Department recommended in a report about CPDs practices that it adopt such a policy.

A Chicago Tribune investigation in 2016 found that foot chases played a role in more than a third of the 235 police shooting cases in the city from 2010 through 2015 that ended with someone wounded or killed. In 2017, the Justice Departments investigation into Chicagos police practices noted that foot pursuits are inherently dangerous and present substantial risks to officers and the public.

During Browns tenure as the Dallas police chief from 2010 to 2016, that department developed a foot pursuit policy for officers following a controversial officer-involved shooting in 2012. At the time, that policy prohibited Dallas police officers from engaging suspects alone during foot chases, though it was relaxed a few years later.

But the Dallas foot-chase policy, which indicates on that police departments website that it was revised in November 2018, says its to be used as a training tool for officers, and no discipline will be associated with violations.

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After filing to run in Florida Senate District 9 last June, Iannotti did no campaigning and little fundraising, according to state campaign finance records. She also spent several weeks in Sweden before the election, when other campaigns were in full swing, her social media accounts show. She repeatedly declined interviews from the press and sent a statement in September asking for privacy.
Tim Mapes, the longtime chief of staff for former House Speaker Michael Madigan, used to have a sign on the wall of his statehouse office that said everything about his status as Madigans gatekeeper.

Nobody gets in to see the wizard. Not nobody, not no how, the sign read, borrowing a line from the Wizard of Oz.

On Wednesday, Mapes became the latest member of Madigans inner circle to be criminally charged as part of an ongoing federal bribery investigation that ended Madigans record-breaking run as speaker and rocked the Illinois political establishment.

Mapes, 66, who was ousted by Madigan three years ago amid a sexual harassment scandal, was indicted on charges of lying to a federal grand jury investigating allegations that Commonwealth Edison paid bribes in exchange for Madigans assistance pushing though legislation in Springfield.

Mapes lied to the panel even though hed been granted immunity from prosecution by the U.S. attorneys office and was told by the chief federal judge in Chicago that he must testify truthfully or possibly face criminal charges for perjury, according to the indictment.

Mapes alleged evasiveness during his grand jury appearance  even after being granted immunity  seemed to suggest the longtime Madigan loyalist may have decided to fall on his sword and avoid providing any damaging information on his former boss.

The indictment charged Mapes with one count each of perjury and obstruction of justice. The obstruction charge calls for up to 20 years in federal prison, while lying to a grand jury carries a five-year maximum prison sentence.

An arraignment date had not yet been set.

Mapes could not be reached Wednesday. His attorneys, Andrew Porter and Katie Hill, issued an emailed statement after the charges were made public saying Mapes had testified truthfully in the grand jury.

His honest recollections  in response to vague and imprecise questions about events that allegedly took place many years ago  simply do not constitute perjury, the statement read. This case, of course, is not about him  but about the governments continued pursuit of his former boss. Tim Mapes has in no way engaged in obstruction of justice, and looks forward to prevailing at trial when all of the facts are aired.

The 11-page indictment alleged Mapes repeatedly lied during a March 31 appearance before the grand jury when asked about Madigans relationship with his longtime confidant Michael McClain, who was charged in November with orchestrating the ComEd bribery scheme.

He also lied when he said he had no knowledge that McClain had communicated with two unnamed state representatives in 2018 on behalf of Madigan, the indictment alleged.

A source with knowledge of the probe said the two lawmakers are Rep. Bob Rita of Blue Island, a longtime Madigan supporter, and former Rep. Lou Lang of Skokie, who had served as deputy majority leader under Madigan before resigning in 2019.

Lang could not be reached for comment. A spokesman for Rita said we have no idea who or what theyre talking about in this.

McClain is referred to in the charges only as Individual B and Madigan as Public Official A, though details in the document make clear who each person is.

The charges against Mapes marked the deepest blow yet into Madigans once-vaunted political operation in a still-active investigation that threatens to ensnare Madigan himself.

Madigan has not been charged with wrongdoing. He was the nations longest-serving state House leader before stepping down in January as pressure from the investigation was mounting, and weeks later gave up his seat in the House and position as head of the Illinois Democratic Party.

In addition to McClain and Mapes, the grand jury has also indicted former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore, former ComEd executive Fidel Marquez, former ComEd lobbyist John Hooker and Jay Doherty, a consultant and former head of the City Club of Chicago.

Marquez pleaded guilty and is cooperating with prosecutors. McClain, Pramaggiore, Hooker and Doherty have all pleaded not guilty.

ComEd admitted to its role in the scheme as part of a deferred prosecution agreement with U.S. Attorney John Lauschs office that was made public last July. The company agreed to pay a record $200 million fine and cooperate in the probe in exchange for bribery charges being dropped in three years.

Mapes, meanwhile, was long considered Madigans gatekeeper and hatchet man, serving as Madigans chief of staff, executive director of the Madigan-run Democratic Party of Illinois and for eight years as the chief clerk of the House.

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While Mapes didnt win popularity contests among staff and lawmakers, he was viewed as the guy who took care of the speakers interests and made sure legislation was on track.

Madigan ousted Mapes in the summer of 2018 when a minute clerk working for Mapes accused him of sexual harassment along with a lack of concern about abusive behavior. A legislative inspector general recommended that he be banned from serving in state government.

According to the criminal charges unveiled Wednesday, the federal grand jury investigating the ComEd bribery scheme was looking for information on whether Madigan ever directed McClain to interact with House members or perform sensitive tasks or exercise (Madigans) power and authority.

Specifically, the panel wanted to know whether Madigan  who was famously reclusive and rarely used email or cellphones  used McClain as a means of communicating messages to others between 2017 and 2019, when the bribery scheme was allegedly unfolding, according to the charges.

McClain had in fact exchanged numerous phone calls and emails with Mapes about Madigan during that time period, routinely discussing the details of meetings and Madigan assignments the speaker had doled out to McClain, according to the charges.

Mapes was served on Feb. 12 with a grand jury subpoena to testify, according to the indictment. The week before his March 31 appearance, he was granted immunity from prosecution.

On the morning of his testimony, Mapes was told by U.S. District Chief Judge Rebecca Pallmeyer that his truthful testimony was required under the immunity order and that his failure to comply could result in perjury charges, according to the indictment. He was then brought up to the grand jury.

During his testimony, Mapes was asked whether McClain had ever given him insight into his interactions with Madigan that he wouldnt otherwise have been privy to, the indictment stated.

No, that wouldnt  that wouldnt happen, Mapes allegedly answered.

Mapes also denied knowing whether McClain had continued to work on Madigans behalf after his retirement as a lobbyist in 2016.

Are you aware of any facts that would help us understand whether or not, in fact, (McClain) acted as an agent or performed work for (Madigan) or took direction from (Madigan) in that timeframe? a prosecutor asked at one point, according to the charges.

Mapes allegedly answered, I dont know who you would go to other than (Madigan) and (McClain). Madigan, if he had people do things for him like I did things for him, was  didnt distribute information freely.

Mapes also falsely testified when asked if he was aware of any impressions that Madigan had of Joseph Dominguez, who was appointed as ComEd CEO in 2018 when Pramaggiore left for its parent company, Exelon, the indictment stated.

Mapes ouster from Madigans staff came nearly a year before the ComEd probe came to light as the speaker was dealing with a series of sexual harassment scandals sparked by the #MeToo movement.

During a June 2018 news conference in downtown Chicago, Sherri Garrett, who worked with and for Mapes in Springfield, accused Mapes of sexism, harassment and bullying that creates an extremely difficult working environment.

Garrett told reporters she had personally witnessed bullying and repeated harassment that was often sexual and sexist in nature. She alleged Mapes talked about her undergarments as well as other comments that left her stunned and uncomfortable.

The Mapes allegations came the same year that Alaina Hampton, a former campaign worker in Madigans operation, accused Madigan lieutenant Kevin Quinn of sexual harassment. Madigan promptly ousted Quinn, the brother of Ald. Marty Quinn, 13th.

Only a week before Mapes was booted, Lang stepped down from his position as one of Madigans deputy majority leaders when Maryann Loncar, a medical marijuana advocate, accused him of inappropriate behavior and years of harassment.

Lang immediately called the allegations absurd. The legislative inspector general would later say that evidence does not support the abuse complaints against Lang. Loncar declined to participate in the IG investigation. Lang won reelection, but resigned in 2019 and became a lobbyist.

In an outside investigation Madigan ordered to review how he handled sexual harassment complaints, the workplace culture and other issues, Mapes received some of the harshest criticism.

The probe, led by former federal prosecutor Maggie Hickey, found sufficient evidence to conclude that Mapes did not discharge his duties as chief of staff and House clerk in a courteous and efficient manner when he made inappropriate comments to or around Garrett.

The Hickey report said state workers she interviewed believed that Mr. Mapes attempted to motivate workers through fear and that a few other supervisors throughout the years emulated this practice.

Some people also raised the additional concern that, given Mr. Mapess political ties, he could make or break their careers outside of the speakers office as well, the report stated.

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It wasnt long after her fathers death at the hands of police that 6-year-old Gianna Floyd exclaimed, Daddy changed the world.

At the time, the country was in the middle of a wave of peaceful protests and  in some instances  unrest, rioting and looting as George Floyds death sparked a long-overdue reckoning on policing and race relations in America.

Tuesday was the one-year anniversary of Floyds death. Whether or not Floyd changed the world is still an open question. What isnt, however, is the impact hes had on policy in Illinois.

George Floyd was a father. He was a brother. He was a son, said Illinois Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, on the floor of the House Tuesday. And that's why here in Illinois, the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus demanded meaningful systemic change.

In the weeks following Floyds death, the ILBC went to work, holding a series of hearings in an effort to craft a legislative response to long-simmering issues that were given new relevance.

The caucus established legislation on four pillars, which included the landmark criminal justice reform legislation signed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker earlier this year.

Illinois became the first state in the country to ban cash bail and mandated all police officers wear body cameras by 2025. There will be various changes made to use-of-force policy, among other sweeping changes.

Other pillars centered around economic access, equity and opportunity; education and workforce development; and health and human services.

But lawmakers say there's still more to be done.

One item originally in the criminal justice legislation but ultimately taken out was the elimination of qualified immunity for police officers. Another push came up short this spring, but proponents say they will continue to push for this and other reforms.

These are historic first steps to reforming a system designed to promote inequities, but we are far from done, Buckner said. This, and every May 25, we remember George Floyd and all of our brothers and sisters who have been taken from us. And we keep working day by day until we can look up and see that the world has indeed changed. But we know that we have not done enough yet.

Cannabis cleanup moves

The Illinois House voted 70-33 Tuesday to approve legislation meant to address shortcomings in the 2019 law authorizing recreational marijuana sales and consumption.

The legislation, brought forward by Illinois Rep. LaShawn Ford, D-Chicago, aims to fix the botched rollout of the programs social equity component, which has delayed the awarding of additional dispensary and cultivation licenses.

The awarding of 75 additional dispensary licenses was delayed indefinitely last September after just 21 applicants with perfect scores won the lottery.

Under Fords plan, 110 additional dispensary licenses will be awarded across two new lotteries to existing social equity applicants that were excluded in the first lottery.

The lottery would only be open to applicants who scored more than 85% of available points on the application.

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The proposal is now in the Senate. Once approved there, it heads to Gov. Pritzkers desk. He has indicated he will sign the legislation.

By authorizing additional lotteries that are focused on social equity applicants, were ensuring that communities that have been left out and left behind have new opportunities to access the cannabis industry, Pritzker said. This legislation further ensures those least likely to have already had a foot in this industry will see a bigger piece of the pie.

Supreme Court remap

Just hours before their first redistricting hearing since dropping legislative map proposals late last week, Democrats Tuesday dropped another bomb: a remap for the state supreme court.

The proposed lines would make the four judicial districts outside Cook County substantially equalized in population. Currently, the Second District, which covers most of the collar counties and northern Illinois, has more than 2.5 times the population of two other downstate districts.

The lines havent successfully been redrawn since 1963. Republicans approved a remap during the final days they held unified control of Illinois government in 1997, but it was tossed out by the courts.

Illinois is a very different state than it was 60 years ago, and the voters of Illinois deserve to elect members to our states highest court that reflect their values, said Sen. Omar Aquino, D-Chicago, chair of the Senate Redistricting Committee.

So why now?

Illinois Supreme Court justices are elected  three from Cook County and one from each of the four other districts. Democrats currently hold a 4-3 majority.

However, Democratic Justice Thomas Kilbride lost his retention election in 2020, falling a few points short of the 60% he needed. And his sprawling Third District, which stretches across north-central Illinois from Will County to the Quad Cities, has been trending Republican.

If the map stays the same, theres a good chance a Republican would win Kilbrides seat in 2022. But with adjusted boundaries that make downstate districts larger and suburban-based districts more condensed, Democrats have better odds of keeping a majority on the court.

Retirements

Bill Houlihan, the longtime state director for Sen. Dick Durbin, will retire from that position at the end of the week.

Houlihan, who also serves on the Democratic State Central Committee and was recently elected to a second stint as chairman of the Sangamon County Democratic Party, has long been a fixture in the states politics. He often filled in for Durbin at events the senator could not attend.

More recently, Houlihan played a crucial behind-the-scenes role in Robin Kellys election as chairwoman of the Democratic Party of Illinois.

Durbin honored his top aide Monday on the floor of the U.S. Senate, tearing up as he told Houlihan he couldnt have done it without you.

It hurts to lose a man who has given me the best years of his life, Durbin said. It is going to take a big toll on my office, my politics and my life. But I can guarantee you that I will be calling Bill just as often as I always have. He may not be on the payroll, but I know hell take my call.

Also this week, House Speaker Chris Welchs office held an event in Springfield honoring Steve Brown, the longtime spokesman for former House Speaker Michael Madigan.

Brown, who stuck around after Madigans departure to help with the transition, will retire when his contract is up in June.

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When former President Barack Obama reacted to the deaths of Trayvon Martin and Michael Brown, killings that ignited racial justice protests during his tenure, he had to choose his words carefully, the former Chicagoan and nations first Black president said Wednesday in a virtual roundtable.

Speaking with the Black Lives Matter organizations co-founder Alicia Garza and others to mark the anniversary of George Floyds murder, the 44th president said he was limited in what he could do from the walls of the Oval Office during similar high-profile deaths.

There were some frustrations for me in my institutional role, Obama said. I went as far as I could just commenting on cases like Trayvon Martin or what was happening in Ferguson because, as we discovered, not every president follows this  at least my successor didnt  but I followed the basic notion that the Justice Department was independent. I could not steer them.

Obama said he did not want to endanger the operations of then-U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, who had opened federal civil rights investigations into Martin, a 17-year-old Black teen who was fatally shot by George Zimmerman in 2012 in Sanford, Florida. Zimmerman was acquitted of murder charges, and Holders investigation later closed with insufficient evidence.

Holder also investigated the police killing of Brown, an 18-year-old Black man whose fatal shooting by a Ferguson, Missouri, officer in 2014 led to a resurgence of Black Lives Matter protests that had begun with Martins death. Again, the criminal trial led to an acquittal, and the Justice Department later also declined to pursue charges.

Obama on Wednesday did not allude to either conclusion, but he offered a peek into the deliberations he grappled with as Americans took to the streets and cried out for justice.

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I could not come down, or appear to come down decisively, in terms of guilt or innocence in terms of what happened, so (I) had institutional constraints, Obama said.

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The former president also said he regretted that the 2012 election, through which he won a second term, did not lead to Democrats reclaiming the U.S. House or control of certain statehouses and governorships, where he said many crucial criminal justice laws are hashed out.

All the reform initiatives that we were coming up with and the ideas that had been generated, we werent able to translate into as bold a set of initiatives as I would have wanted because we just couldnt get it through, Obama said.

President Joe Biden also used that refrain during an October 2020 campaign debate against former President Donald Trump, saying, We had a Republican Congress. Thats the answer, after the incumbent pressed him on why he didnt accomplish his campaign goals when he was Obamas vice president.

During Wednesdays roundtable, Obama also praised organizers such as Garcia for building a nationwide grassroots movement that began during his term but swelled following Floyds murder a year ago in Minneapolis. He shouted out to the accomplishments of activists pushing for criminal justice reform-minded states attorneys and district attorneys as well as for pressuring local governments to question how do we analyze budgets and make very clear decisions about how money is spent.

The latter point was a nod toward  but not an explicit endorsement of  the thousands of protesters who last year began calling for U.S. police department budgets to be reallocated to other social services. That position, earlier nicknamed the defund police movement, has been criticized by Republicans and some Democrats, including Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, as unrealistic and dangerous for public safety. Obama, too, has said the defund slogan was counterproductive.

Benny Estrada, street outreach coordinator at the Chicago-based New Life Centers, told Obama he would like to see more community investment to propel his works mission. He also called on the city to fund its Office of Violence Prevention more.

Investing in our communities, I think, is key, when we talk about things like mental health services in our neighborhood and how scarce they are, and the years of trauma that our families have gone through, Estrada said.

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SPRINGFIELD  When Democratic county party chairs in the 48th Senate District met earlier this year to choose a replacement for state Sen. Andy Manar, D-Bunker Hill, the upcoming redistricting process loomed over their decision.

The district, which includes the urban cores of Springfield and Decatur as well as rural swaths of Christian, Macoupin, Madison and Montgomery counties, had changed significantly since the last remap, flipping from supporting President Barack Obama by nearly 3-point margin in 2012 to giving President Donald Trump an 18-point margin.

Needless to say, when the vote came up, the chairs chose Doris Turner, a Springfield Democrat, over finalist Chase Wilhelm, who was from the rural southern part of the district.

The decision foretold the coming Democratic redistricting strategy for downstate seats: consolidate as many urban areas as possible to shore up seats the party currently holds and, where possible, create opportunities to gain seats in a region of the state they are increasingly uncompetitive in.

That appeared to be the case in the map dropped by Democrats late last week.

In Turner's case, this means dropping much of the Macoupin, Madison and Montgomery counties, ancestrally-Democratic counties that have shifted significantly towards Republicans in recent years, and adding much of Springfield's west side and suburban areas, which have become more friendly towards Democrats in recent years.

Turner, who would have been a heavy underdog to win in her current district, would be remapped into would likely be a tossup.

"You used to get Democratic reps out of the areas that are south of Springfield, and they were in areas that had coal mining, and more of what used to be 'downstate Democrats,' which is kind of going the way of the woolly mammoth," said Kent Redfield, a retired professor of political science at the University of Illinois Springfield.

"There's always an incumbent protection dimension," he added. "They're not going to protect incumbent if it creates a situation where they're in a weaker position in terms of maintaining a seat."

The picture is quite different from the last remap 10 years ago.

Democrats, often relying on the brands of family names such as the Phelps' and Costello's, retained rural, downstate seats far past the days the party carried the region in national elections.

But through election losses and resignations, the party has lost that foothold in many rural, conservative downstate regions.

Those who are left downstate represent the urban centers that dot central Illinois and parts of the Metro East region near St. Louis.

"Downstate has been voting Republican nationally and then Republican statewide and, now, Republican in terms of the legislature," Redfield said. "I mean that's just been a natural progression of the changes in the Democratic Party going left and Republican Party becoming more socially conservative."

Redfield said the new map is "a reflection of how (Democrats) are scrambling to try and put together some configurations that will allow them to continue to hold on to the seats that they've got."

This was perhaps no more apparent than the drawing of the 46th legislative district, which connects most of Peoria with the urban core of Bloomington-Normal.

SENATE DISTRICTS

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HOUSE DISTRICTS

Previously, the district, represented by Peoria Democrat Dave Koehler, stretched west into Fulton County, an ancestrally Democratic region that has trended significantly towards Republicans in recent years.

Koehler's district voted for President Barack Obama by a 15-point margin in 2012, but that shrink to just over 1 point in 2016. And in 2020, the district broke for Trump by a few votes. Koehler won reelection that year by about 7 points.

Bloomington-Normal, anchored by Illinois State University and white collar employers like State Farm and Country Financial, has trended Democratic in recent years.

Not to mention, two House districts must be coupled together into the same Senate district, so in addition to maintaining a Peoria-based House district, there is a new Bloomington-Normal district that Democrats expect to contest.

Peoria Mayor Rita Ali, testifying before a joint House-Senate Redistricting Committee hearing, said she favored the proposed district, pointing to the the common interests between her city and Bloomington-Normal  and urban areas in general.

"These are two urban areas that work well together," Ali said. "I think grouping them together within one district will be good for us in terms of addressing the needs and attracting resources to both areas."

The consolidation trend was also apparent throughout downstate Illinois.

State Sen. Omar Aquino, D-Chicago, the chairman of the Senate Redistricting Committee, said many of these decisions were made after gathering community input.

"For instance, for the first time Chicago's Chinatown community will be kept whole contained in one Senate and one House district," he said. "Danville would be contained in one Senate and one House District, as will Carbondale, Galesburg and the majority of Bloomington-Normal. The city Evanston will be in one Senate district and the Metro East will be more consolidated."

The Quad Cities-based 36th Senate District, a GOP-held seat that currently stretches into rural areas north and west, would stretch south to pick up Democratic-leaning Galesburg and Macomb. It's seen as a potential pickup for Democrats.

The swingy LaSalle County-based 76th House District, represented by Democrat Lance Yednock, would swing northward to pickup DeKalb, home to Northern Illinois University.

And Carbondale, currently divided between two House and Senate districts, would be consolidated into one district, potentially putting it back in play for Democrats.

In Metro East, the party has consolidated seats, appearing to shore up the 56th Senate District, held by state Sen. Rachelle Aud Crowe, D-Alton, by eliminating some rural precincts in the north and west portions of the district.

The Illinois General Assembly has until June 30 to pass and for Gov. J.B. Pritzker to sign a new map into law. If not, it will go to a bipartisan commission. If they can't agree, a random name, either a Democrat or a Republican, is drawn out of a hat to cast the deciding vote.

Redfield said the party would likely try to maintain the amount of downstate seats it has now. The party has been buoyed by gains in the Chicago suburbs the past few cycles, offering some wiggle room.

"If you've got 73 House seats and 41 Senate seats, you're not in bad shape," Redfield said. "But you definitely have a downstate problem, obviously."

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CHICAGO  Kevin Clark, who played drummer Freddy Spazzy McGee Jones in the 2003 move School of Rock with Jack Black was killed when he was struck by a car while riding his bicycle along a Chicago street early Wednesday.

Police said Clark, 32, was struck after running a red light in the citys Avondale neighborhood. Clark was riding east on Logan Boulevard when he was struck by a vehicle heading south on Western Avenue, a witness and the driver both told responding officers, according to a Chicago Police Department crash report.

Authorities say emergency responders found Clark partially under the car. Clark was taken in critical condition to Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead a short time later. Authorities say the 20-year-old woman driving the car was issued several citations, but didnt give additional information.

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After starring in School of Rock with Black, Clark continued pursuing drumming. Most recently, he played in the band Jess Bess and the Intentions, which made its debut performance Saturday at Legendary Wooden Nickel in the Chicago suburb of Highwood.

In a tweet, Black called Clarks death devastating and that he was heartbroken that it came too soon.

"Sending love to his family and the whole School of Rock community, Black wrote.

In interviews, Clark said he landed his only movie role by responding to an ad in a local newspaper looking for adolescents who can play drums, keyboards and guitar.

Rivkah Reyes, who played Katie in the movie, called Clark a "big-hearted, warm human. She said Clark frequently attended her stand-up and sketch comedy shows at Second City.

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On a night in mid-December 1773, a group of about 60 men who had disguised themselves as Native Americans boarded three merchant ships at a Boston wharf and dumped dozens of chests of imported tea into the cold dark waters  an act of civil disobedience that damaged private property in protest against government tax policies.

Conservatives these days hail that moment; in fact, a faction on the right a few years ago co-opted the name tea party as its own. Yet conservative state legislators across the country have been behaving less like the revolutionary rebels for whom they express admiration and more like British colonial overlords by introducing, and in some states passing, dozens of laws aimed at curtailing the fundamental right to public protest.

How counter-revolutionary.

The murder of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer a year ago prompted waves of protests across the country, including here in Los Angeles. But Floyd's killing was hardly the first such outrageous act by government officials, and the Floyd protests were not the first outpouring of anger and opposition to such acts. In fact, the Black Lives Matter movement so feared and reviled by the right began with a hashtag campaign after George Zimmerman's 2013 acquittal in the death of Trayvon Martin.

It is in our national DNA to respond to the objectionable through public protest. Street actions in the late 1950s and the 1960s spurred watershed changes in civil rights protections and helped bring an end to U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. Three decades of protests also helped change public awareness and national policy on nuclear energy and weapons. And don't forget the 1999 anti-World Trade Organization protests, or the Occupy Wall Street movement a decade ago.

But some conservative politicians don't like such protests. Since Donald J. Trump's election as president  which spurred massive protests by women around the world  45 states have considered a total of 226 bills addressing free assembly and free speech rights, many of which would restrict public protests or reduce protections for protesters, according to the International Center for Not-for-Profit Law, which focuses on supporting civil societies. Of those, 18 states  primarily Republican-led ones in the South and Midwest  have enacted 34 bills; 64 measures are still pending.

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Montana, North Dakota, Texas and several other states increased penalties for people protesting near oil or gas installations, fallout from the protests against the Keystone XL pipeline; the measures seem to be part of a national campaign by the conservative pro-industry American Legislative Exchange Council, which drafted model language for the bills. North Dakota also made it a crime to wear a mask during a protest. Utah criminalized protests that disrupt public meetings. Florida made it so all protesters in groups of more than three can be held criminally liable if any of them damages property.

Anti-protest bills are of a piece with voter suppression efforts. They are attempts to shut off the political participation first of Black Americans, but also of anyone else moved to stand with them, or anyone who would stand against other actions that the government supports.

This is dangerous ground, no matter where on the political spectrum you may stand. Democracy is predicated on the free exchange of ideas and the ability of people to openly express support, opposition or even ambivalence regarding government actions.

Of course, the right to protest is not the right to rampage or block a highway or halt a pipeline or derail a public hearing. Yet we already have laws attending to those issues, and people engaged in civil disobedience anticipate that they will face arrests for their actions. It's a step they are willing to take.

Tellingly, the same Republicans who rail about violent protests last summer seem to have no problem at all with the protesters who stormed the U.S. Capitol and assaulted police officers in hopes of overturning the results of a presidential election. For the record, had Trump's supporters on Jan. 6 marched from his rally on the Ellipse to the police lines at the Capitol steps to decry the certification of Joe Biden's victory, we would have defended their right to do so (while also blasting the lies they were espousing). But they didn't do that; an assault on the seat of government to usurp democracy is not protest but insurrection.

All the same, the indefensible acts of property destruction and violence by the few cannot be used as a mechanism to muzzle the many  regardless of the content of the message. That includes voices that express hatred, racism and intolerance.

Democracy can be contentious, loud and messy. That's the way ours began and the way it must continue. Elected officials in state capitals should not be allowed to undermine it.

Los Angeles Times

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Archaeological, Prophetic, and Manuscript Evidences

The Bible has been abused, criticized and scorned more than any other book in history. Many attack it in order to undermine and destroy the basis of Christianity, the perpetuation of which is so annoying to them. The notion of an ancient collection at writings concerning God and morality exercising influence over enlightened 21st century man is absolutely repugnant to many people today, especially intellectuals.

Very well then; emotionalism aside, lets examine some of the reasons why intelligent, educated persons continue to accept the Bible on its own terms today. Is there a rational, logical basis for such a belief? The answer is most assuredly and unashamedly, yes, and there exists very strong indications that the Bible is nothing less than the Word of God.

Once the many evidences are examined, the skeptical view of Scripture: that it is mythological, filled with contradictions, inaccuracies, and unacceptable, primitive ideas, that God had no hand in it, etc., are left devoid of any foundation. Arguably, there are a few contradictions and problem passages to be found, but these are very minor and insubstantial next to the overwhelming indications of divine authorship, and can be largely (if not totally) attributed to early copying errors.

Before continuing, I wish to appeal to intellectual fairness and open-mindedness. If what I present is truly reasonable proof, it is hoped that the reader would accept it as any other evidence. Many reject such arguments because of the moral implications inherent in the acceptance of the Bible. This moral element puts the discussion on different ground, which is why people tend to be either vehemently for or against the Bible.

The claim to divine inspiration pervades the Bible throughout. This, of course, does not prove anything in and of itself but it is a logical starting-point for our analysis. 2 Timothy 3:16 says: All scripture is God-breathed. 2 Peter 1:20-21: For no prophecy recorded in scripture was ever thought up by the prophet himself. It vas the Holy Spirit within these godly men who gave them true messages from God. Jesus states in Matthew 5:18: As long as heaven and earth last, the least point or the smallest detail of the Law will not be done away with. Isaiah: 40:8 declares: The Word of our God endures forever. There are many other such statements. At least 3800 times in the Old Testament, The Lord says or a similar expression occurs.

Clearly, then, the Bible presents itself as Gods Word, or Revelation, given to us for our benefit. Jesus quoted from many Old Testament books as if they were completely authoritative, including Genesis. He said in John 10:35 that Scripture cannot be untrue, and appealed to fulfilled prophecy repeatedly to substantiate His claims to deity. Now, obviously if one believes that Jesus was God, then one must agree with His view of the Bible. But this is a relatively weak argument for the skeptic.

The total unity and internal consistency of the teachings of the Bible is a strong argument for an ultimate divine authorship, when it is considered that over forty people wrote the Bible over a period of about 1500 years. They were from different cultures and eras, spoke different languages and had widely divergent personalities, backgrounds, occupations, and writing styles.

This argument may appear simplistic but if one asked forty people of similar characteristics to write a one-page essay on a simple subject, I submit that the result would be a chaotic mishmash. One must then explain how the Bible can be so consistent. The more one reads the Bible, the more evident this is.

Someone might sincerely ask, But how can we know that the Bible hasnt been distorted or changed in all those centuries? This legitimate concern can be shown to be groundless. In quality, age, and quantity of manuscripts, the Bible far exceeds all other ancient writings and even many of comparatively recent origin, such as Shakespeare. Sir Frederic G. Kenyon, who was the director of the British Museum and perhaps the foremost authority on manuscripts in his day, said this about the Bible:

The last foundation for any doubt that the scriptures have come down to us substantially as they were written has now been removed. The authenticity of the books of the New Testament may be regarded as finally established. (The Bible and Archaeology, New York: Harper and Row, 1940, 288) No fundamental doctrine of the Christian faith rests on a disputed reading. It cannot be too strongly asserted that in substance the text of the Bible is certain; especially this is the case with the New Testament. Scholars are satisfied that they possess substantially the true text of the principal Greek and Roman writers whose works have come down to us, yet our knowledge of their writings depends on a mere handful of manuscripts, whereas those of the New Testament are counted by the thousands. (Our Bible and the Ancient Manuscripts, New York: Harper Bros., 1941, 23)

To illustrate, lets compare the manuscript evidence:

Author Date Written Earliest copy Number of Copies

Caesar 100-44 B.C. 900 A.D. 10

Tacitus (Annals) 100 A.D. 1100 A.D. 20

Pliny the Younger

(History) 61-113 A.D. 850 A.D. 7

Suetonius

(Life of Caesar) 75-160 A.D. 950 A.D. 8

Thucydides

(History) 460-400 B.C. 900 A.D. 8

Aristotle 384-322 B.C. 1100 A.D 49 of any one

Homer (Iliad) 900 B.C. 400 B.C. 643

(next highest manuscript total)

New Testament 40-100 A.D. 125 A.D. over 24,000

The discovery or the Dead Sea Scrolls in 1947 greatly solidified the certainty or our present Old Testament text. For example, a complete scroll of Isaiah was found and dated at 125 B.C. The previous oldest extant manuscript was from 916 A.D. In comparing the two it was found that they were word-for-word identical in more than 95% of the text. The variations consisted chiefly of slips of the pen and different spellings. The Hebrews meticulously copied their sacred writings with great care, believing that God would punish them if they changed the writings in the least. The ancient Hebrews had scribes whose sole occupation was to check and recheck the Holy Scriptures for accuracy.

Now lets consider the findings of historical research and archaeology  fields of study which overwhelmingly support the Bible. Concerning the Table of Nations in Genesis 10, William F. Albright, the great biblical archaeologist states:

It stands absolutely alone in ancient literature without a remote parallel even among the Greeks and remains an astonishingly accurate document. It shows such remarkably modern understanding of the ethnic and linguistic situation in the modern world, in spite of all its complexity, that scholars never fail to be impressed with the authors knowledge of the subject. (Recent Discoveries in Bible Lands, New York: Funk & Wagnalls, 1955, 70 ff.)

Sir William Ramsay, regarded as one of the greatest archaeologists who ever lived, used to be a skeptic of the Bible until he studied Lukes writings (Luke and Acts). He was forced to revise his views. What did he conclude after thirty years of study?:

Luke is an historian of the first rank; not merely are his statements of fact trustworthy, but this author should be placed along with the very greatest of historians. (The Bearing of Recent Discovery on the Trustworthiness of the New Testament, Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book House, 1953, 222)

Countless instances of Bible accuracy could be cited. Many modern philologists attest to the likelihood of a common origin of all languages (Tower of Babel story, Genesis 11). The excavations at Jericho amazingly supported the biblical account. The walls fell outward, an exceedingly rare occurrence.

But even these startling results of research, which may point to, but dont prove divine authorship, are nothing compared to the extraordinary confirmation of fulfilled prophecy. It has been proven again and again that the Bible accurately foretold future events hundreds, and sometimes thousands at years before they took place, often in fairly minute detail. One might logically

conclude that only a Being Who somehow knew the future could have done such a thing. No human has ever remotely approached the marvelous predictive record at the biblical prophets. Astrology is an utter farce in comparison.

One of the most incredible predictions was of the destruction and subsequent history of Babylon. They were written by Isaiah (8th cent. B.C.) and Jeremiah (626-586 B.C.) and are recorded in Isaiah 13:19-22 and 14:23, and in Jeremiah 51:26,43. Babylon was probably the greatest city in the world at its height: the 7th and 6th centuries B.C. It was 196 square miles in area, with walls that were 311 feet high and 87 feet wide, with 100 solid brass gates and 250 watchtowers, which were 400 feet high. Some of the details mentioned in the prophecies were that wild animals would live there, the stones would not be removed, and that swamps would cover the site.

All of this happened, of course. The fulfillment began in 539 B.C. when the Persians, under Cyrus, conquered Babylon without a fight by diverting the Euphrates river, which ran through the city, and marching under the walls during an annual feast. It rapidly decayed after that and no one ever lived there again.

Hundreds of fulfillments equally notable have taken pace. One need only read the Bible and then compare it to subsequent history. The dating of the prophecies before the events is beyond all dispute, even by the latest, most liberal calculations. Some other prophecies concern Tyre (an especially noteworthy one  Ezekiel 26:3-21), Samaria (Hosea 13:16 and Micah 1:6), Petra and Edom (Isaiah 34:6-15, Jeremiah 49:17-18, Ezekiel 25:13-14 and 35:5-7), Nineveh (Nahum 1:8-10 2:6, 3:10, 13, 19), Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum (Matthew 11:20-24).

And then there are the scores of prophecies which were fulfilled in the life of Jesus, many of which He could not possibly have faked. The apostles, in the New Testament, often appeal to messianic promises and fulfilled prophecies as evidence of the Messiahship and Divinity of Jesus Christ (e.g., Mt 2:4-6, Rom 1:2-4, Acts 3:18, 10:43, 13:29, 17:2-3, 1 Cor 15:3-4, 1 Pet 2:5-6):

1) Born of a Virgin: Is 7:14 w/ Mt 1:18, 24-25, Lk 1:26-35.

2) From the Tribe of Judah: Gen 49:10, Mic 5:2 w/ Mt 1:2, Lk 3:23, 33.

3) From the Family Line of Jesse: Is 11:1,10 w/ Mt 1:6, Lk 3:23, 32.

4) From the House of David: Ps 132:11, Jer 23:5 w/ Mt 1:1, Lk 3:23, 31.

5) Born in Bethlehem: Mic 5:2 w/ Mt 2:1,4-8, Lk 2:4-7.

6) Called Son of God: Ps 2:7 w/ Mt 3:17.

7) Called Lord: Ps 110:1, Jer 23:6 w/ Mt 22:43-45, Lk 2:11.

8) Called Immanuel (God With Us): Is 7:14 w/ Mt 1:23.

9) A Prophet: Deut 18:18 w/ Mt 21:11, Lk 7:16, Jn 7:40.

10) Judge: Is 33:22 w/ Jn 5:30.

11) King: Ps 2:6 w/ Mt 21:5, Jn 18:36-37.

12) Special Anointing of the Spirit: Is 11:2 w/ Mt 3:16-17.

13) Preceded by a Messenger: Is 40:3, Mal 3:1 w/ Mt 3:1-3, 11:10, Lk 1:17, Jn 1:23.

14) Galilee Ministry: Is 9:1 w/ Mt 4:12-13, 17.

15) Ministry of Miracles: Is 32:3-4, 35:5-6 w/ Mt 9:32-35.

16) Teacher of Parables: Ps 78:2 w/ Mt 13:34.

17) Triumphal Entry Into Jerusalem: Zech 9:9 w/ Mt 21:5-10,15-16.

18) Messiah to Come Before Jerusalems Destruction (70 A.D.): Gen 49:10 w/ Mt 24:1-2.

19) Messiah Will Come to the Temple (Had to be Before 70): Ps 118:26, Dan 9:26, Hag 2:7-9, Zech 11:13, Mal 3:1 w/ Mt 21:12, Jn 2:13-17.

20) Entered Jerusalem on a Donkey: Zech 9:9 w/ Lk 19:35-37.

21) Stone of Stumbling: Ps 118:22, Is 8:13-14, 28:16 w/ Acts 4:10-11, Rom 9:32-33, 1 Pet 2:7-8.

22) Rejected by His Own People: Is 53:3 w/ Jn 1:11, 7:5,48.

23) Hated Without a Cause: Ps 69:4, Is 49:7 w/ Jn 15:25.

24) Resurrection: Ps 16:10, 30:3, 41:10, 118:17, Hos 6:2 w/ Acts 2:31, 13:33, Mt 28:6, Mk 16:6, Lk 24:46.

25) Ascension: Ps 68:18 w/ Acts 1:9.

26) Right Hand of God: Ps 110:1 w/ Heb 1:3, Acts 2:34-35.

The following 24 prophecies were literally fulfilled by Jesus in one 24-hour period of time:

27) Betrayed by a Friend: Ps 41:9, 55:12-14 w/ Mt 10:4.

28) Betrayed For 30 Pieces of Silver: Zec 11:12 w/ Mt 26:15.

29) Silver Thrown in Gods House: Zech 11:13 w/ Mt 27:5.

30) The Potters Field: Zech 11:13 w/ Mt 27:7.

31) Forsaken by Disciples: Zech 13:7 w/ Mt 26:31, Mk 14:50.

32) Silent Before Accusers: Is 53:7 w/ Mt 27:12.

33) Wounded and Bruised: Is 53:5, Zech 13:6 w/ Mt 27:26.

34) Beaten: Is 50:6, Mic 5:1 w/ Mt 26:67, Lk 22:63.

35) Spit Upon: Is 50:6 w/ Mt 26:67.

36) Mocked: Ps 22:7-8 w/ Mt 27:31.

37) Hands and Feet Pierced: Ps 22:16, Zec 12:10 w/ Lk 23:33.

38) Messiah Was to Die: Is 53:8, Dan 9:26 w/ Lk 23:46, 24:7, Jn 19:30.

39) Executed With Criminals: Is 53:12 w/ Mt 27:38.

40) Prayed For His Persecutors: Is 53:12 w/ Lk 23:34.

41) People Wagging Their Heads: Ps 22:7 w/ Mt 27:39.

42) Stared Upon: Ps 22:17 w/ Lk 23:35.

43) Garments Parted: Ps 22:18 w/ Jn 19:23.

44) Garments Gambled For: Ps 22:18 w/ Jn 19:24.

45) Offered Vinegar and Gall: Ps 69:21 w/ Mt 27:34,Jn 19:29.

46) Forsaken Cry: Ps 22:1 w/ Mt 27:46.

47) Bones Not Broken: Ps 34:20 w/ Jn 19:33.

48) Side Pierced: Zech 12:10 w/ Jn 19:34.

49) Darkness at Noon: Amos 8:9 w/ Mt 27:45.

50) Buried in Rich Mans Tomb: Is 53:9 w/ Mt 27:57-60.

God proclaimed: Long ago I predicted what would take place, then suddenly I made it happen (Isaiah 48:3). Skeptics must explain all of the above evidence in a way that entirely excludes God.

William F. Albright is generally considered the greatest biblical archaeologist. Here is a scholar who authored more than 800 publications and received thirty honorary degrees, including From Harvard, Yale, St. Andrews, and Hebrew University (Jerusalem). He was a Professor of Semitic Languages at Johns Hopkins University from 1929-1958 and staff-member and director of the American School of Oriental Research in Jerusalem. Albright had this to say about the Old Testament:

Thanks to modern research we now recognize its substantial historicity. The narratives of the patriarchs, of Moses and the exodus, of the conquest of Canaan, of the judges, the monarchy exile and restoration, have all been confirmed and illustrated to an extent that I should have thought impossible forty years ago. (Christian Century, 19 November 1958, 1329)

Lets proceed now to examine individual examples of this accuracy:

The Table of Nations  Genesis 10

The following names from this astonishing geographical record of ancient peoples have been found on archaeological monuments:

Tubal (Gen 10:2) Meshech (10:2) Ashkenaz (10:3) Togarmah (10:3) Elishah (10:4) Tarshish (10:4) Cush (10:6) Put (10:6) Dedan (10:7) Accad (10:10) Shinar (11:2)

Abrahams Times

Practically all the cities and towns mentioned in connection with Abraham, such as Shechem (12:6), Ai, and Bethel (12:8), have been discovered, excavated, and dated to his time (c. 2000-1850 B.C.). Excavations at Mari on the Middle Euphrates river since 1933 have unearthed thousands of cuneiform tablets dating mostly from about 1700 B.C. which throw direct light on the background of Patriarchal traditions in Genesis. The cities of Nahor (24:10) and Harran (11:31,28:10) turn up frequently in the documents, as well as Arioch, a prince in Gen. 14:1, and the tribal name of Benjamin (35:24, 49:27-28) (see Albright, The Bible After 20 Years of Archaeology, Religion in Life, vol. 21, 1952, 537-550; 538-542).

At Nuzi (or Nuzu), located southeast of Nineveh in Iraq, a whole archive of legal and social texts were discovered from 1925-1931, which parallel Genesis accounts. The Nuzians were the biblical Horites (14:6, 36:21) and they flourished in the 16th-15th c. B.C. In Genesis we find accounts of barren wives who ask their husbands to produce a child by their maid servants. Sarah, Abrahams wife, and Rachel and Leah, Jacobs two wives, did this (16:2, 30:1-3, 9-10). This custom only appears in the patriarchal age and is found in the Nuzi tablets. (see C. H. Gordon, The Patriarchal Age, Journal of Bible and Religion, vol. 21, 4, Oct. 1955, 241).

Abrahams Travels

Abrahams migration from Ur of the Chaldees to Canaan (11:31) has been disputed on the grounds that extensive travel was unknown in his time. At Mari, however a tablet was found which indicates much travel between these lands. It was a wagon contract stipulating that the wagon was not to be driven to Kittim (by the Mediterranean Sea). (see Fred H. Wight, Highlights of Archaeology in Bible Lands, Chicago: Moody Press, 1955, 61-62).

Abrahams journey to Egypt was also doubted (see Gen. 12:14) based on writings of 1st century A.D. historians Strabo and Diodorus, who said that Egypt prohibited foreigners at that time. But a tomb painting at Beni Hassan, dated c. 2000 B.C. showed Asiatic Semites in Egypt. (see Joseph P. Free, Archaeology and Bible History, Wheaton, Illinois Scripture Press, 1969, 54-55)

Abrahams Military Expedition (Genesis 14)

This narrative was long criticized as fictitious. Julius Wellhausen, king of the 19th century higher critics of the Bible, thought it was historically unreliable and indeed impossible. The crucial evidence is described by respected scholar Millar Burrows, Chairman of the Dept. of Near Eastern Languages and Literature at Yale:

According to the 14th chapter of Genesis, eastern Palestine was invaded by a coalition of kings in the time of Abraham. The route taken by the invading armies led from the region of Damascus southward along the edge of Gilead and Moab. The explorations of Albright and Glueck have shown that there was a line of important cities along this route before 2000 B.C. and for a century or two thereafter, but not in later periods. (Millar Burrows, What Mean These Stones?, New York: Meridian Books, 1957, 71)

Isaacs Oral Blessing (Genesis 2)

It seems most unusual to us that Isaac didnt revoke his oral blessing to Jacob after he discovered the latters deception. But tablets at Nuzi, which was a contemporaneous and similar culture, tell us that such oral decrees were perfectly legal and binding and irrevocable. In other words, spoken proclamations in these ancient cultures carried at least as much weight as our written documents. (see Cyrus H. Gordon, Biblical Customs and the Nuzu Tablets, The Biblical Archaeologist, vol. 3, no. 1, Feb. 1940, 1-12. p. 8).

Josephs Tomb

Joseph told his relatives to take his bones to Shechem in Canaan (Gen 50:25, Joshua 24:32). In the 1950s, the tomb reverenced as Josephs was opened and was found to contain a body mummified according to Egyptian custom, with a sword of the kind worn by Egyptian officials (see Gen 41:38-44). (see John Elder, Prophets, Idols, and Diggers, New York: Bobbs-Merrill Co., 1960, 54).

The Hittites

This nation, apparently the ancestors of present-day Armenians, are often mentioned in the Bible (e.g., Gen 23:10, 26:34, 50:13, Joshua 11:3, 1 Kings 15:5). No other records of the Hittites were known until recently, so, as always, their existence was doubted, since, in fashionable post-Enlightenment parlance, all intelligent people knew that the Bible was filled with myths and legends, and couldnt be trusted for such things.

This state of affairs also applied to Babylon and Nineveh, the seats of two great ancient empires, until archaeology uncovered them as well. After the distinguished Oxford Assyriologist A.H. Sayce identified them from archaeological finds in 1892, and excavations at Boghaz-Koi in central Turkey (the Hittite capital) were undertaken in 1906, all doubt was removed  the Bible was correct again. (see Albright, Recent Discoveries in Bible Lands, New York: Funk & Wagnall, 1955, 53; Wight, ibid., 94-95; Elder, ibid., 75). In light of the discoveries above, and others like them, W.A. Irwin observed in 1953 that:

An extreme skepticism in regard to the patriarchal stories has given place to the recognition that they preserve valid reminiscences of historic movements and social conditions. (The Modern Approach to the Old Testament, Journal of Bible and Religion, vol. 21, 1953, 14)

Moses and Writing

It used to be casually and self-confidently asserted that writing wasnt developed enough among the Hebrews in Moses time (15th-13th cents. B.C.) for him to have written the Pentateuch (first five books of the Bible). This is now known to be untrue. Writing dates from about 3000 B.C. among the Sumerians, 2900 B.C. among the Egyptians, etc. As for the Semites, Albright observed that:

Writing was well known in Palestine and Syria throughout the Patriarchal Age. No fewer than five scripts are known to have been in use. (Archaeology Confronts Biblical Criticism, American Scholar, vol. 7, Spring 1938, 186)

Proto-Semitic alphabetic writing was found in Canaanite inscriptions at (of all places) Mt. Sinai in 1907 by the famous British archaeologist Sir Flinders Petrie. These were dated to before 1500 B.C. and thus precede Moses. (see Albright, The Archaeology of Palestine, Baltimore: Penguin Books, revised, 1960, 187; Sigfried H. Horn, Recent Illumination of the Old Testament, Christianity Today, vol. 12, no. 19, June 21, 1968, 14)

The Laws of Moses

True to form, the higher critics also held that the laws of Moses were too advanced for his time, until the famous Code of Hammurabi (18th cent. B.C.) was discovered in 1901. This Babylonian monument contains 282 laws, some of which were similar to biblical laws.

Hittite Suzerainty Treaties of the 14th-13th Centuries B.C.

A suzerain is an emperor, not a king among equals, but a sovereign ruler, over all. These treaties, an early form of international law, were established between victorious Near Eastern kings and their vanquished subjects. They show remarkable similarities to forms of the Mosaic Covenant, most particularly with the book of Deuteronomy. The Hebrew God was also perceived as a King of kings and Lord of lords.

Thus the cultural context of the Israelite Covenant  formerly thought to be that of isolated, backward, nomadic desert tribal society , is seen to be sophisticated international law. Jews and Christians have no difficulty believing that God reveals himself in accordance with prevailing culture (e.g., the many biblical references to sheep and shepherds, etc.). The texts of these Hittite treaties almost invariably follow a particular pattern:

Preamble; Historical prologue; Stipulations; Deposition of copy and public reading; Witnesses; Curses and blessings.

This form holds only for the above historical period, and not before or after. The book of Deuteronomy, which is even today routinely dated at 621 B.C. (in denial of Mosaic authorship, of course), interestingly follows the same pattern as Middle Bronze Age treaties:

Chapter 1:1-5; 1:6-3:29; Chapters 4-11 (basic), 12-26 (detailed); 31:9,24-26 / 31:10-12; 31:16-30, 32:1-47; 28:1-14 (blessings), 28: 5-68 (curses).

This is strong evidence of the Mosaic authorship of Deuteronomy, and by implication, the whole Pentateuch, provided one is free from philosophical presuppositional biases. If Deuteronomy and other covenant passages like it only took fixed literary forms from the 9th-6th centuries B.C. or later, according to the prevailing Documentary Theory of the Bible, then we must ask why the writers could so closely follow legal forms which had fallen out of use hundreds of years earlier, rather than those of their alleged much later date.

Image Worship and Idolatry

The Second Commandment prohibits image worship (Exodus 20:4, 34:17). The antiquity of this law (13th cent. B.C.) is authenticated by excavations in Israel. Not a single figure of Yahweh/Jehovah has been found yet. At Megiddo, for example, five town levels have been excavated and there is no trace of such images. (see Elder, ibid., 116-118)

The Exodus

Bible scholar Merrill Unger describes opinions on the Exodus:

Israels exit from Egypt as outlined in the Biblical narrative formerly excited a great deal of skepticism and debate among scholars. Many contended that the route described in the Book of Exodus was impossible, and that the Exodus itself was, accordingly, legendary or at least historically unreliable . . . the ranks of the skeptics have been seriously depleted by the recantation of their most distinguished representative, the celebrated Egyptologist, Alan Gardner. (Archaeology and the Old Testament, Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan, 1954, 136)

Albright maintained that the Bibles account of the Exodus was substantially historical. (see The Archaeology of Palestine, Baltimore: Penguin Books, revised, 1960, 237)

The Tabernacle (Exodus 25-27)

The accounts of the building and use of this portable sanctuary have been dated in the post-exilic Jewish period (after 586 B.C.), rather than from Moses time, due to the alleged impossibility of the appropriate level of craftsmanship in the 13th century B.C. But archaeology has discovered several remarkable Egyptian portable structures just as elaborate as the Tabernacle, such as the bed canopy of Queen Hetepheres I, mother of Cheops, who built the Great Pyramid (c. 2600 B.C.). (see Kenneth A. Kitchen, Some Egyptian Background to the Old Testament, The Tyndale House Bulletin, nos. 5 & 6, 1960, 9-13; G. A. Reisner and W. S. Smith, A History of the Giza Necropolis, vol. 2, Harvard Univ. Press, 1955, 13-17)

The Conquest of Canaan (Joshua 6-12)

This military campaign, led by Joshua, Moses successor, has been doubted by many higher critics of the Bible, who thought that the Hebrews assimilated slowly and fairly peacefully into Canaanite culture. Archaeology teaches otherwise (the pattern is becoming very familiar by now). Excavation at Jericho, Lachish, Debir, Ai and Hazor reveals that they were destroyed at about the same time (see Joshua 6:24; 8:18-19; 10:32,38-39; 11:11-13), whereas excavation at Bethshan, Taanach and Megiddo shows that these cities were not destroyed with the others (see Joshua 17:11). Also, it is now confirmed that only Jericho, Ai and Hazor were burned, as the Bible states.

Archaeologists disagree on the exact dates, based on different interpretations of dating techniques, but they are agreed on the simultaneity of destruction, and that there was indeed a conquest. (see Albright, From the Stone Age to Christianity, Baltimore: Johns Hopkins Press, 1940., 212; Paul W. Lapp, Biblical Archaeology and History, New York: World Pub., 1969., 107-111; Joseph P. Free, Archaeology and Bible History, Wheaton, Illinois: Scripture Press, 1969, 136, 237).

The Lachish Letters

Letters found in the Palestinian city of Lachish in 1935-38 substantiate the accuracy of the book of Jeremiah. The artifacts were written in classical Hebrew, and were dated at 588 B.C. They cast light on Jeremiah 34:6-7, which states that Lachish and Azekah were the last two remaining fortified cities in Judah after Nebuchadnezzars invasion. One was written by an officer at a military outpost; he says: We are watching for the signals of Lachish . . . we cannot see Azekah.

The atmosphere of the letters reflects the worry and disorder of a besieged country. We know from other sources of history that Jerusalem was, in fact, under attack at this time, and fell in 587-86 B.C. The letters also mention the name Jeremiah and refer to the prophet. Several other names show up which appear in the Old Testament only in the time of Jeremiah (who predicted the destruction of Judah far in advance, hence his title, the weeping prophet). (see Millar Burrows, What Mean These Stones?, New York: Meridian Books, 1957, 107; Elder, ibid., 108-109; Free, Archaeology and Bible History, Wheaton, Illinois: Scripture Press, 1969, 222-223).

King Jehoiachin in Babylon

This king of Judah was taken captive to Babylonia (c. 597 B.C.) for 37 years, according to 2 Kings 24:10-16 and 25:27-30. Cuneiform tablets discovered in Babylon and dated 595-570, contained a ration list including Jehoiachin King of Judah and five Jewish royal princes. Also, a Babylonian jar handle found near Jerusalem mentioned Jaazaniah, servant of the King (see 2 Kings 25:23 and Jer 40:8). Another bears the inscription, To Gedaliah who is over the house (see 2 Kings 25:22-26 and Jer 40:5). These are dated at about 598-587.

All of these archaeological discoveries increase the credibility of Bible narratives; in this case the reliability of the unknown author of 2 Kings and the prophet Jeremiah. (see Albright, The Biblical Period from Abraham to Ezra, New York: Harper and Row, 1963, 85; Jack Finegan, Light From the Ancient Past, London: Oxford Press, 1946, 188)

Cyrus the Great of Persia

Cyrus, King of the Persian Empire, which succeeded the Babylonian Empire after the capture of Babylon in 539 B.C., allowed the captured Jews to return to Israel (538 B.C.), according to 2 Chronicles 36:22-23 and Ezra 1:1-4. This had been disputed (is there anything that hasnt been?) by biblical critics. But physical evidence once again triumphed over the myopic hypotheses of hypercriticism. A cylinder was found with a decree by the tolerant King Cyrus stating: All of their peoples I assembled and restored to their own dwelling-places. The Bible was vindicated once again from the ever-present scalpel of the higher critics. (see Finegan, ibid., 191; Free, ibid., 237)

Conclusion

Many more examples could be produced in order to further substantiate the above conclusion. It is hoped, however, that the reader has attained a level of respect for the Bible commensurate with the massive amount of authentication it has received from the spade of archaeology, thus rendering additional proofs unnecessary and superfluous. Millar Burrows of Yale has penned a concise summary of the historical accuracy of this remarkable collection of books revered by Christians and Jews as the Word of God:

The Bible is supported by archaeological evidence again and again. On the whole, there can be no question that the results of excavation have increased the respect of scholars for the Bible as a collection of historical documents The fact that the record can be so often explained or illustrated by archaeological data shows that it fits into the framework of history as only a genuine product of ancient life could do We find the record verified repeatedly at specific points. Names of places and persons turn up at the right places and in the right periods. (How Archaeology Helps the Student of the Bible, Workers with Youth, April 1948, 6)

William F. Albright fully concurs, and I will close with three of his striking proclamations:

Archaeological and inscriptional data have established the historicity of innumerable passages and statements of the Old Testament. (Archaeology Confronts Biblical Criticism, American Scholar, vol. 7, Spring 1938, 181) We may rest assured that the consonantal text of the Hebrew Bible, though not infallible, has been preserved with an accuracy perhaps unparalleled in any other Near-Eastern literature. (The Old Testament and the Archaeology of Palestine, in Harold H. Rowley, editor, Old Testament and Modern Study, Oxford Univ. Press, 1951, 25) We must treat the consonantal text of the Hebrew Bible with the utmost respect . . . the free emending of difficult passages in which modern critical scholars have indulged cannot be tolerated any longer. (Recent Discoveries in Bible Lands, New York: Funk & Wagnall, 1955, 128)

***

Photo credit: charlotte_202003 (12-1-17) [Pixabay / Pixabay License]

***

Summary: Are there reasons why intelligent, educated persons continue to adhere to biblical inspiration? Is there a rational basis for such a belief? I provide many such (and varied) reasons.

***
Patna: Flights at Patna Airport were suspended on Thursday evening due to inclement weather, officials at the Jai Prakash Narain Airport said.

Talking to the media, airport director Bhupesh Negi said both incoming and outgoing flights were suspended until weather condition became safe for planes to take off or land.

We will monitor the weather till 10:00 pm today after which a decision would be made whether condition was safe enough to restore flights at the airport, Negi said.

Earlier, one plane coming from Delhi was directed to return to its station of origination due to unsafe weather condition at Patna Airport where visibility was near zero at 6:45 pm.
Patna: A 57-year-old man suffering from Coronavirus allegedly died by suicide after he jumped from the window of a bathroom on the 5th floor of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Patna on Wednesday afternoon.

According to the police report, Ramchandra Shah, a resident of Begusarai, was brought to the Patna hospital on May 18 when he was admitted in the COVID-19 ward. Employed at a rice mill in Bangalore, Shah returned to Bihar during the first nationwide lockdown last year. Since then, he had been at his house in Begusarai. He, however, became sick on May 12 with symptoms akin to coronavirus. When his condition continued to worsen despite initial home-made treatments, his family brought him to Patna where he managed to find a bed at the AIIMS.

Frustrated by his worsening condition, Shah went to the toilet on the 5th floor and jumped from there ending his life, family members said.

Talking to the reporters, Shahs son said that his father was not happy with his condition at the hospital and wanted him to take him back to his home where he thought he could recover quickly.

This is the fifth suicide directly related to COVID-19 at the AIIMS, hospital officials said.
The race to replace Hastings is a special election set for Jan. 11, and Thurston will have to resign to run for an office that would overlap with his current position. The same goes for Powell if he jumps in, which would diminish the Democrats numbers in the Senate further just as the redistricting session gets underway in January.
Patna: Dozens of supporters of former MP Pappu Yadav organized a protest rally at the partys office in Patna on Thursday demanding his release from the jail stating the one man who was actively helping poor fight coronavirus was arrested and imprisoned by leaders who were hiding in their homes when people were dying in the lack of oxygen and other medical care.

Nearly naked and their heads shaven, Yadavs supporters demanded immediate release of the Jan Adhikar Party (JAP) and better living condition for their leader during his entire incarceration time at Patnas Beur Jail.

Pappu Yadav was the only leader who, ignoring his own safety, was out there day in and day out helping poor people get oxygen tanks and find ambulances and hospital beds for people affected by COVID-19 virus. Risking his own life, he was responsible for saving many people but instead of acknowledging his work and personal sacrifices, this government arrested him and threw him in jail where he continues to languish under the worst imaginable condition, said Shobhit Sinha, a member of the youth wing of the JAP.

The protestors accused Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for indulging in the politics of personal vendetta saying Pappu Yadav had exposed an MP from Bihar as an Ambulance Chor after the MP was found with dozens of improperly seized ambulances in his backyard.

The entire case against Pappu Yadav, the messiah of the poor, is based on fabrications and lies and we demand immediate release of him. If something happens to him in the prison, we will hold Nitish Kumar personally responsible for it, they said.
National Communication Officer of Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners, Abdul Razak Alhassan says President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addos approach in fighting illegal miners is not the best.



He has also criticized the President for involving the military in "Operation Halt" to burn excavators.



President Nana Addo on Wednesday, May 26, 2021, noted that the state agencies are justified in destroying confiscated excavators from individuals and companies involved in Galamsey.



I know there are some who believe that the ongoing exercise of ridding our water bodies and forest zones of harmful equipment and machinery are unlawful and, in some cases, harsh."



I strongly disagree and I would advise those who take a contrary view to go to court to vindicate their position if they so wish. That is what the rule of the law is all about, he said.



But Abdul Razak Alhassan thinks the Presidents comment is rather unforgiving.



Its unfortunate and very sad. This shouldnt be the way to solve the problem. We are not in support of illegal miners but the approach to solve the issue is not the best, he told NEAT FMs morning show, 'Ghana Montie'.

Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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After burning seven excavators and two bulldozers belonging to Xtra-Gold Mining Company by Operation Halt at Atewa West in the Eastern region, the narrative has been that the company was engaged in galamsey.



Galamsey operations considered as illegal have been causing destruction to the nations treasured forests and water bodies.



The massive cyanide spillage and mining in rivers and water bodies in tropical rain forest communities is condemnable.



However, Spokesperson for the company says Xtra-Gold is doing genuine work and always ensure that, they do not go against the laws governing mining in the country.



It is in the light of this that Xtra-Gold mining has removed the dark clouds covering it in an attempt to put it into a bad light.



Spokesperson for the company, Nana Asante, has made startling disclosure about Xtra-Gold Mining Company, which is unknown to the public.



Nana Asante explains to newsmen that, Xtra-Gold is a Canadian mining firm, and has been operating since 2006, and holds five concessions in Ghana, and its mother company, Xtra-Gold Resources Corporation is enlisted on the New York Stock Exchange.



It has immensely been a reliable source of governments revenue generation for development by paying its taxes religiously to the state.



The company has given jobs to over 700 people directly and indirectly, especially from its catchment communities.



Xtra-Gold Mining has been paying royalties and has fulfilled all of its obligation as a mining company prescribed by the mining act.



Its Corporate Social Responsibilities to communities where it operates are outstanding. The company have built modern toilet facilities, boreholes and gives out a percentage of the gold mined to communities within its five concessions every quarter. Whats more, Xtra-Gold have built a clinic at Akyem Pameng and a palace.



The reputable company has never, and will not attempt to engage in galamsey as, it is wrongfully rumoured, Nana Asante, spokesperson for Xtra-Gold has stated.



Ownership of Xtra-Gold



According to Nana Asante, Xtra-Gold Mining is a registered limited liability company owned by a group of investors and not the bona fide property of the ruling New Patriotic Partys (NPPs) National Womens Organizer, Madam Kate Gyamfua as it is being speculated.



The companys mining site is not close to a river body and the Atewa Forest as it is being alleged.



It rather has four dugout wells for its operations, and reclaim lands hurriedly after its operations.



Wrongful Invasion



The invasion to the concession sites by the Military on three different occasions to set 20 excavators and other equipment on suspicion of illegal mining on May16, 2021 is wrong, unruly and utterly and out of place, said Nana Asante.



No changfang machine was spotted at the sites. Video footages on television and social media channels clearly show destruction of rivers and water bodies by the use of changfang machines mining in them. But when the taskforce went to Xtra-Gold mining concessions, they never showed video footages of destruction of rivers and water bodies in Atewa. Residents in the concession communities have never complained of any problem against the company destroying their farms.



The instigators misled inconsiderate military guys who were interested in carrying out the operation in a manner to satisfy their quest to show power against officials of the company who are diligently doing their work legally.













Source: Akwesi Agyeman









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The National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA), has engaged stakeholders in the pension sector in the Northern Region to share and learn best practices that would help to widen the pension net to reach more people, especially individuals in the informal sector.



The meeting, dubbed; Regional Pensions Learning Alliance Platform, was on the theme; Driving pensions penetration in Northern Ghana through learning and information sharing; the role of pension sector actors, and held in Tamale.



Mr Alhassan Yakubu Fuseini, Head of the NPRA Northern Zone, said individuals in the informal sector's contribution to the pension scheme was low, saying they lacked the necessary information on the importance of being contributors.



He said, It is estimated that about 85 percent of the countrys workforce is found in the informal sector, out of which only one per cent contributes to one form of a pension scheme or the other, which the NPRA considers as paltry.



The Regulator desires to enhance the penetration of pensions by widening the pension net, especially among the informal sector, and this can be achieved by getting pension sector actors, including workers and employers to understand how Ghanas pension sector works and how it can be scaled-up to reach more people, he added.



Mr Fuseini encouraged members of the workforce in the country to take advantage of the new 3-Tier Pension Scheme and contribute to enhance their pension benefits and also increase their retirement income security.



Madam Janet Ameseya, Northern Regional Chairperson of the Public Sector Workers Union (PSWU), commended the NPRA for the meeting and said the engagement had enlightened her members on how they could plan towards their retirement.



Other participants also said they would impart the knowledge they had gained from the meeting to other members of the public, especially the informal sector workers so that they could actively contribute to pension schemes to help achieve the NRPAs aim of a broadened pension net.



The Platform shared experiences that stimulated peer lessons among pension sector actors, which is expected to help inform improved pension practices in the Northern Region.

Source: GNA









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Mali's former junta leader Col Assimi Goita has declared himself the country's transitional president.



He made the announcement after stripping interim President Bah Ndaw and PM Moctar Ouane of their powers.



The two ousted leaders were freed from military detention, where they had been held since Monday in what was seen as Mali's second coup in nine months.



The seizure of power came after a cabinet reshuffle which Col Goita complained he was not consulted about.



Two army officers involved in the previous coup lost their jobs in the reshuffle.



The situation in Mali today is said to be tense but calm.



Read Full Story .... Dailymail.co.uk >>> :









Source: BBC









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Caladesi is reached by pedestrian ferryboat, private boats or a long walk north from Clearwater Beach  the inlet is closed, so Caladesi is no longer a true island, but still a great getaway, Leatherman said. The white beach is composed of crystalline quartz sand, which is soft and cushy at the waters edge, inviting one to take a dip in the sparkling clear waters. There are boardwalk trails, but my favorite is the kayak and canoe trails through the mangroves to see the large blue herons and other birds that frequent this wonderful natural area.
Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.
Angola's President Joao Lourenco has apologised to victims and families of those killed in the May 1977 massacre and asked for forgiveness on the government's behalf.



Thousands, including many of the country's young intellectuals and party activists, were imprisoned, tortured and killed following a split in the governing People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) party.



Amnesty International says 30,000 died in the purge. Some say as many as 90,000 were killed.



In his address to the nation, President Lourenco termed the killings by government forces as a "great evil".



He termed the government's response as "disproportionate and extreme".



But it was "no longer time to point fingers at each other", he said.



The government would begin a search for the remains of some of the historical figures who were killed to return them to their families, Mr Lourenco said.



"This public apology and forgiveness is not limited to simple words, it reflects our sincere regret and willingness to put an end to the anguish that throughout these years the families carry with them for lack of information about the fate given to their loved one," he said.

Source: BBC









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The Ashanti regional security coordinator with the support of some six armed police personnel has stopped a press conference held by a group calling itself the Pro- NPP group Movement for Bawumia.



The press conference which was to be held at 12 noon Wednesday was to address the burning of excavators as part of efforts to halt illegal mining activities in the country and provide alternative means of addressing the menace.



But Starr News Ashanti regional correspondent Isaac Bediako who was at the event said at about 10:00 am, the armed men in police branded Toyota Tundra stormed the venue indicating that there was intel the press conference would be attacked by some unknown persons.



The armed men together with organizers of the presser went into a meeting for over an hour and subsequently headed to the regional police command.



Starr News understands that the group was going to suggest proper ways of halting the illegal mining rather than burning of excavators.



Briefing the media on the suspension of the presser, Ashanti regional coordinator for the group Duncan Poku Boateng said the police claim some people are planning to attack them therefore they should stop the press conference for their personal security.



He explained our intention for this press conference was to speak on some national issues and also thank Dr. Kwaku Oteng for suspending Captain Smart. His attacks on the NPP government and our respected leaders were unfortunate. I dont really know why the police and the national security will come in to stop us. I have been told to report to the regional deputy commander which I will do after speaking to you, he said.



Few minutes after speaking to Starr News, Boateng and his colleagues went to the regional police command for their meeting.





Source: starrfm









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Five policemen have been arrested for allegedly extorting money from drivers, the Accra Regional Police Command has confirmed. They have since been detained. They are said to have extorted GHC20,000 and GHC18,000 respectively from two drivers.



The said policemen were on patrol duties in some parts of Accra when they allegedly stopped and extorted the money from the drivers. The police men who were armed reportedly threatened the complainant drivers and in one case even reportedly handcuffed their victim.



Their names were given as Wishwell Odoo, Evans Arawassi, Lawal Agyapong and Senate Kuvordo, who are all constables. The fifth person is Lance Corporal Redeemer Agama.



They are attached to the operations unit at the headquarters of the Ghana Police Service and are said to have been using official police vehicles for their illegal operations.



Victims report

Confirming the arrest, the Accra Regional Police Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Afful Boakye Yiadom said the command was preparing an official report to be forwarded to the Police Administration with recommendations for the interdiction of the five policemen.



The command will not shield any police personnel who use the uniform to perpetrate crime against members of society, he said.



The command, he said, received reports of the alleged extortion against the policemen from two victims and immediately launched a hunt for them since their identities were not known.



Boakye Yiadom said on 21 May 2021 the Kaneshie Police received a report that the five police personnel who were armed intercepted an Uber vehicle on the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) road and accused the Uber driver of being a fraudster.



They arrested the Uber driver and allegedly forced the driver to transfer an amount of GHC20,000 into a mobile money account of one of the policemen.



After taking the money, the policemen abandoned the Uber driver.



On the same day, the Achimota Police Station also received a complaint that three police personnel in an official police vehicle stopped an unregistered Mercedes Benz driver on the Atomic road.



The police personnel allegedly accused the driver of being a cyber fraudster and searched the vehicle.



When nothing incriminating was found they handcuffed the driver and took him to the Silver Star Tower where they forced him to withdraw an amount of GHC18,000 from an ATM.



Boakye Yiadom said the command has resolved to thoroughly investigate the allegations and take punitive actions against the perpetrators.

Source: GNA









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An Accra High Court has thrown out a motion praying it to move a seven-member jury to the crime scene of murdered J.B Dankwah Adu, former Member of Parliament for Abuakwa North.



Defence Counsel Yaw Danquah, lawyer for the two persons allegedly involved in the murder, wanted the jury to inspect the crime scene and see physical features of the scene so it could deliberate and appreciate arguments of the State and the defence.



The accused persons: Daniel Asiedu, aka, Sexy Dondon, and Vincent Bossu, aka, Junior Agogo are being held for various roles in the murder of the former Legislature.



The Trial Judge, Justice Mrs Lydia Osei Marfo, refused the application saying that the applicant had not demonstrated any material issues, which could be resolved by the inspection of the crime scene.



The Court said Article 19 (2) (c) of the 1992 Constitution deemed the accused persons as innocent of the offence charge until otherwise established by the Court.



It said even so the Evidence Act mandated the prosecution to establish the guilt of the accused beyond reasonable doubt.



The Accused person has no onus to establish his innocence whatsoever. This case can be resolved without having to visit the crime scene, the Court said.



Earlier, arguing the motion to move the jury to the crime scene, Mr Danquah said giving the lapse of time of when the purported crime took place and the time of the trial, it had been nearly six years.



Counsel said it had become evident in the course of the trial that witnesses were relying on the relapse of time to give vivid account of what they thought happened.



The Counsel said the jury needed to observe things for themselves rather than rely on photographs and videos taken from a particular angle, which did not give a holistic view of the place.



Mr Danquah held that the crime scene was a material issue in the trial and so it was important for the jury (judges of fact) to factually and physically see for themselves what the scene looked like.



According to him justice must be afforded to Aseidu because the charges against him, when found guilty, could be a death sentence at the extreme or life imprisonment.



Accused should be afforded this visit to help all parties involved to establish their case.



The State, led by Mrs Sefakor Batsa, Principal State Attorney, opposed the application, saying the decision to move to the locus could only be taken by the Court upon satisfaction that the visit would result in a material issue, which could be resolved by inspection.



She said the application did not provide any compelling reasons to satisfy the Court to move to locus considering the charges levelled against the applicant.



The Principal State Attorney held that the charges preferred against applicants could be resolved based on evidence adduced in the court room and there would be no need to visit the crime scene.



So far evidence adduced in this court room has not resulted in any conflict, which can only be resolved by visuals of the crime scene and evidences adduced by the prosecution witnesses were straight forward, Mrs Batsa said.



She, therefore, prayed the Court to dismiss the application.



Mr Stephen Apraku, a former security man of the MP, was to continue to answer questions under cross examination on Wednesday but due to the application, the matter has been adjourned to Thursday, May 27.



Asiedu and Bossu are standing trial for the death of the former Legislator at his residence at Shaishie, near East Legon in Accra on February 9, 2016.



Asiedu is being held on the charges of murder and robbery and additionally been charged together with Bossu for conspiracy to commit crime, to wit robbery.



They have denied the charges before a seven-member jury and remanded into custody by the Court.

Source: GNA









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Manufactures of one of Ghanas finest locally produced breads, Royal Loaf Bakery has donated 100 pieces of Akoma Bread to the Osu Childrens Home in Accra .



CEO of Royal Loaf Bakery, Alhassan Saad stated during the presentation that, This is part of our support mechanism to the Home to offset some of their expenses in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic.



Officials of the Home Reindorf Dartey, Grace Colmen and other members stated that the donation in this challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic is highly appreciated and expressed their sincerest gratitude to Royal Loaf Bakery for the amazing gesture.



The CEO thanked the management of the Home for the opportunity and assured them of their continued support to orphanages in the country and beyond.



He added, we are grateful to have been given the opportunity which makes us very positive about the future of our support for the less privileged.









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The National Democratic Congress (NDC) MP for North Tongu in the Volta Region, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called on all political parties to publicly declare a zero-tolerance policy for party financing from galamsey overlords at all levels.



This ought to be strictly enforced with appropriate sanctions, he said.



Speaking in an interview with the Daily Graphic, he pointed out that looking at the approach to fighting the menace, the success of the current fight against the menace was uncertain.



I am just thinking aloud on how the latest round of galamsey fight wouldnt end up as a farce like all the others.



Only fearless truth and unquestionable integrity can be our saving grace. God help the Republic, he added.



Financiers

Ablakwa also called on the government to take the fight against illegal mining to so-called big men and women fuelling the menace.



He said considering the extent to which the environment was being destroyed with impunity, it was important to look beyond persons who were directly mining illegally on the field and focus more on the financiers if the fight is to be won.



It strikes me as really strange that in this entire galamsey fight we have not had one galamsey overlord, one real architect, an actual financier arrested and prosecuted. Isnt that where the fight should have started from? he asked.



We all know from the kind of sophisticated equipment at play that only a few moneybags can initiate a galamsey operation, he added.



Reward system

The legislator further said the time had come to put out a handsome amount of money as reward for anyone with information leading to the arrest of the big men/women behind the galamsey menace.



He said those cloaked with authority over intelligence gathering must go all out to expose persons who were the real henchmen in galamsey.



Ablakwa said persons caught in galamsey sites could be used to track down the financiers.



On the burning of excavators, he said: Instead of hurriedly burning excavators, shouldnt we pay attention to their unique chassis numbers and readily make available technology to track the real McCoys who imported or purchased them? Its definitely not difficult to follow the ownership trail.



Institutions must act

He added that the mandated state institutions must start gathering intelligence on the flow of money in the galamsay chain so as to get to the real actors.



He stressed that it was long overdue for EOCO to begin following the proceeds of this organised crime by lawfully freezing bank accounts and identifying assets of suspected bigwigs linked to galamsey as we take sincere steps to smoke out the shadowy perpetrators-in-chief.









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Former Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Prof Frimpong Boateng, has won a defamation suit against broadcaster, Blessed Nana Godsbrain Smart, aka Captain Smart.



The plaintiff, Frimpong Boateng sought legal redress against Captain Smart and Solomon K. A. Owusu, a Ghanaian based in the United States of America (USA) after they made allegations of corruption against him.



Subsequently, a ruling delivered by an Accra High Court awarded Prof Boateng GHC1million in damages against captain smart.



"You are hereby commanded that within eight days after service of this writ on you inclusive of the day of service you do cause an appearance to be entered for you . . . and take notice that in default of your so ding, judgment may be given in your absence without further notice to you," the ruling read.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has disclosed it was not within his power to accept North Tongu Member of Parliament (MP), Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwas resignation from the Appointments Committee.



According to him, he received the letter a few hours before the House went to recess on Tuesday, March 30, 2021. He explained what he did was to receive the resignation letter on behalf of the Committee as the Chairman.



I received a purported letter of resignation from the MP of North Tongu, Hon Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa just a few hours before Parliament recessed.



By the rules of the House, my acceptance of his resignation would have been ultra vires for my position and powers as Speaker of Parliament, he explained.



In his welcome address to the House upon resumption from recess on Tuesday, May 25, Mr Bagbin explained the letter has been forwarded to the Committee for consideration.



He added the Committee would soon present its report to the House for consideration. The former Deputy Education Minister on Tuesday, March 30, 2021, resigned from the Appointments Committee.



In a letter to the Speaker, the MP stated that his decision was taken after days of careful reflection and thoughtful considerations.







Source: adomonline.com









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Former Central Regional Minister, Kwamena Duncan, has scolded the Member of Parliament(MP) for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa for casting doubts over the government's efforts to end galamsey.



A joint military team of the Ghana Armed Forces, Ghana Air Force and Ghana Navy has been deployed to remove illegal miners.



To stop the miners, the task force has embarked on an operation dubbed "Operation Halt" where equipment used in galamsey are burned.



The operation is aimed at restoring the country's water bodies and forest reserves which have been destroyed by the activities of the illegal miners.



Hundreds of changfang machines and excavators have been destroyed by the task force.



Speaking to the government's approach, Hon. Ablakwa disclosed, in an interview with broadcaster Kwami Sefa Kayi, that there are some big people behind illegal mining, hence the government's efforts to fight galamsey will come to naught unless the big people are identified and arrested.



''How come not even one architect behind this galamsey operation has been arrested? To start a galamsey operation, you need millions of Ghana cedis and so the real perpetrators are not those small boys or the youth who are risking their lives.



"Instead of arresting these guys, we should make them an offer for them to lead us to the real kingpins; if we follow the chain, it will lead us to the barons. Unless we get the real perpetrators, we will always come back to square one," he said.



The MP also described the Presidents fight as a fiasco.



I dont recall anywhere in history where there has been a fiasco after all the goodwill, after all the resources a Presidential declaration, something that you put your Presidency on the line.



After 4 years, you are now calling for a conversation? I was really disappointed listening to the President in his last State of the Nation Address, he added.



Dissecting Hon. Okudzeto Ablakwa's statements during Peace FM's ''Kokrokoo'', Kwamena Duncan held that the MP is only seeking to score political points with the galamsey issue.



Kwamena Duncan expounded that the MP didn't make his remarks in the interest of the nation but rather like other political opponents of the government, his aim is to enjoy a political ride.



He likened Hon. Ablakwa's comments to a ''trojan horse''.



''This is a politician. This man is a politician who has been doing politics, in the last if you may, 16/20 years of his adult life. This is what he has been doing. Are you saying what he wrote is a religion?''



He stressed, "I mean in an NPP administration, Okudzeto Ablakwa's suggestion or idea will be always be a trojan horse."







Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Abidjan, Cote dIvoire (PANA) - African countries strengthened their ability to recover funds held offshore, directly boosting national tax revenues, according to the latest Tax Transparency in Africa report released Wednesday
Social commentator, Bernard Allotey Jacobs has ridiculed the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa for suggesting that the government should go after those, he termed, as kingpins behind the galamsey.



Hon. Okudzeto Ablakwa is of a firm belief that the galamsey fight will not be successful until the government arrests the kingpins or overlords who are the real actors in the galamsey business.



He stated, in an interview on Peace FM's flagship programme ''Kokrokoo'' that the burning of excavators to deter illegal miners will yield no results unless "one galamsey overlord, one real architect, an actual financier is arrested and prosecuted".



"How come not even one architect behind this galamsey operation has been arrested? To start a galamsey operation, you need millions of Ghana cedis and so the real perpetrators are not those small boys or the youth who are risking their lives.



"Instead of arresting these guys, we should make them an offer for them to lead us to the real kingpins; if we follow the chain, it will lead us to the barons. Unless we get the real perpetrators, we will always come back to square one," he added.



But to Allotey Jacobs, Hon. Ablakwa is just running his mouth because he failed to expose the kingpins.



''It doesn't need EOCO or CID and so forth, since he knows them, he should mention their names.''



''Who are the big men?'' he asked the MP.



Allotey further requested that Hon. Ablakwa should be given a ''Police uniform to wear and go arrest big galamsey people because everything he is saying is vague''.



He strongly opined that Okudzeto Ablakwa and his likes are only taking advantage of the galamsey menace to advance their political agenda.



''I've seen a lot of Kwaku Ananses in the political front. When I say 'Kwaku Ananse', I mean because the National Women's Organizer of NPP is being alleged that her excavators have been burned, the Kwaku Ananses are coming out to sympathize but, in reality, they're laughing behind the scene'', he said, cautioning them to ''stop this kind of propaganda''.



To Allotey, the President and his government are doing exactly what it takes to stop the galamsey.



''We're at a crossroad and it will take a good leader to perform that wonders making sure galamsey is stopped'', he spoke on Peace FM's morning show ''Kokrokoo'' on Wednesday, May 26.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Kwamena Duncan, former Central Regional Minister, has fired shots at the former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu over his recent article regarding President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.



Mr. Martin Amidu resigned as Special Prosecutor (SP) last year after accusing President Nana Akufo-Addo of interfering in his work and also acting unconstitutionally.



Following his long silence and break from public view, Mr. Amidu has bounced back with article seeking to vindicate himself over claims that the incumbent Attorney General (AG),Godfred Dame, has leveled some allegations against him.



Mr. Amidu, in an article headlined ''THE MPs DOUBLE SALARY CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION DOCKET WAS HANDLED BY THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL AND NEVER BY MARTIN AMIDU AS SPECIAL PROSECUTOR: BY MARTIN A. B. K. AMIDU'', made references to AG's allegations and clarified issues to the public in an attempt to clear his name and reputation.



Article



Mr. Amidu writes; ''On 17th May 2021, a friend called my attention to the fact that he had heard a radio discussion on Oman FM in which I was being blamed for the Governments inability to prosecute the Members of Parliaments double salary case which the Office of the Attorney General had allegedly transferred to my office for prosecution, and I had failed or refused to prosecute same before my resignation. This was certainly a deliberate and knowing concoction of fake news from the newly minted Office of the Attorney General to assassinate my integrity and character.



The politically inspired propaganda against my integrity which sought to link my resignation to the failure or refusal of this irredeemably corrupt Government for four whole years to deal with the simple offence of double salary or stealing (as the Criminal Investigations Department of the Police Service put it), are false, infantile and barefaced lies intentionally concocted and put out by the Office of the Attorney-General to the unsuspecting public under the sub-heading Godfred Yeboah-Dame. The effigy of the Attorney-General published alongside the concocted falsehoods of me resigning without prosecuting a case which was never handled by my office during my tenure as the Special Prosecutor demonstrates how shamefully low the hitherto respected ethical Office of the Attorney-General which I had the privilege of serving in for over fourteen years of my career has descended into since 7th January 2021.



Throughout my tenure as the Special Prosecutor, the respected former Attorney General, Ms. Gloria Akuffo, never referred this case to me for further investigation or prosecution. Any experienced and ethical person who has ever occupied the office of Deputy Minister of Justice under the Constitution knows that the Attorney General never sends a docket to another independent investigatory or prosecutorial agency without a covering letter forwarding the docket with requisite instructions or requests.



Mr. Godfred Yeboah Dame, the young and inexperienced Attorney General should know now that he is the Attorney General that there are no records in his office or the Director of Public Prosecutions office showing that the Attorney-General, Ms. Gloria Akuffo, old enough to be Mr. Dames mother, sent any docket on this case to me as Special Prosecutor to prosecute. No such letter was ever received by me when I was the Special Prosecutor, and no records exists in the Office of the Special Prosecutor of receipt of such a letter or docket from Ms. Gloria Akuffo.''



Mr. Amidu also accused the President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of blackmailing the Members of Parliament.



President's Alleged Blackmail Of MPs



Under the sub-heading Akufo-Addo blackmailing NDC double salary MPs to do his bidding  Joy, he wrote:



''In researching this rejoinder article I came across a news report by mynewsgh.com on Ghana Web dated 31st March 2021 with the heading: Akufo-Addo blackmailing  NDC double salary MPs to do his bidding  Joy which underpins the diversionary political propaganda being undertaken by the Office of the Attorney General and the Daily Guide Network. Mr. Jacob Osei Yeboah is reported to have asked a rhetorical question about what is happening in Parliament and answered as follows:



Whats Happening in the 8th Hung Parliament? Nana Addo is holding the balls of key double salary NDCs MPs in the 8th Hung Parliament. You all know that when a mans balls are being squeezed, his mind and actions are incoherently bizarre. So NDC rank and file be calm and understand Gen. Mosquito and Elders. .. NDC is now on Political Dialysis in the 8th Hung Parliament whilst Nana Addo keeps on squeezing the balls of all double salary NDCs MPs and corrupt high ranking members intermittently. Can NDC survive till 2024?



My resignation as the first Special Prosecutor was the result of the endemic attitude of President, Nana Akufo Addos penchant to usurp the constitutional authority of investigators and prosecutors in criminal justice administration as he tried to do in the Agyapa Royalties Transaction Anti-Corruption Risk Assessment Report implicating him.



My old school ethics and integrity as a lawyer of more than four decades standing guided me to resist the Presidents unconstitutional interference and resigned my office instead of being his poodle. It had nothing to do with the Members of Parliament double salaries which I never saw nor handled during my tenure. The Presidents responses to the media on 13th December 2018 is evidence, if evidence be needed, that this President determines who may be prosecuted for crime and not the Attorney General or Special Prosecutor as his pronouncements on the Members of Parliament double salaries amply demonstrates. God save Ghana from Corruption under this regime. Ghana First!''



Kwamena Duncan's Reaction



After perusing Mr. Amidu's article, Kwamena Duncan has come to the conclusion that he (Martin Amidu) is ''bordering on diminished capacity''.





''You input wrongdoings to a President and your basis is that my information within Parliamentary NDC and the Executive. This is your basis for inputing wrongdoing that, now, the President has assumed that unconstitutional posture and usurped the authority of the Attorney General...Amazing! You've been a Deputy Minister or for maybe Deputy Secretary at the time, later Deputy Minister and then substantive Minister, occupy this high office specially couched in the constitution," he further blasted Mr. Amidu.



He warned Mr. Amidu that he can neither destroy President Nana Addo's reputation nor cause him to become unpopular.



''I thought that those who are lawyers, when they speak to you, that before they proceed; they must have something on which to put some thing that you cannot put something on nothing. How do you speak this way? A person of your stature that, to the extent, this entire country even had some trust in you; the President had trust to appoint to this special office. I see it that this is all a way just to cover his gargantuan failure and he was indeed a failure. When he came into office, all that he did was to write epistles and engaging people. The people of Corinth and Philip had their shares. It's just amazing''



"Nobody can break that aura around Akufo-Addo. Akufo-Addo in his private life, in his public life; as a Foreign Minister didn't collect per diem. He used his own cars throughout. He lived in his own house all throughout. You cannot destroy who God has blessed...we will not treat this with even the very low glory."



He delivered these comments on Peace FM's 'Kokrokoo' programme.

Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Kwamena Duncan, Former Central Regional Minister, has blasted critics over the reappointment of Lieutenant Colonel Frank Agyeman as Commanding Officer of the 64 Infantry Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces.



The military officer was assigned the new role after he was relieved of his post at the National Security Ministry over allegations of him and some Police officers physically assaulting Citi FM journalist, Caleb Kudah.



Background



On May 11, 2021, National Security officers detained Caleb Kudah for filming with his smartphone on the premises of the National Security Ministry in Accra.



The operatives also stormed the premises of radio station Citi FM to arrest his colleague, Zoe Abu-Baidoo for receiving the footage of some abandoned vehicles at the National Security Ministry from Mr. Kudah.



They were both taken to the Ministry where they were interrogated and released.



Mr Kudah, in an interview on Citi TV on May 12, after his release accused the National Security operatives of physically abusing him.



He alleged they slapped and kicked him during his detention at the Ministry.



The Managing Director of the station also confirmed the incident accusing Lt. Col. Agyeman of kicking the jounalist in his groin.



Sanctions



In a statement signed by the Chief Director of the Ministry, Lt. Col. Ababio Serebour (retd.), the Ministry said it had initiated investigations into the alleged assault.



The Ministry therefore sanctioned the officers after finding them guilty of the act.



It indicated that it had reversed the secondment of Lt. Colonel Agyeman.



Three Police officers involved were also withdrawn and asked to report to the Ghana Police Service for disciplinary action.



"The following actions have thus been taken by the Ministry: The secondment of Lieutenant Colonel Frank Agyeman (Director of Operations) at the Ministry has been reversed. The officer is to report to the Chief of Defence Staff for further investigation and appropriate action.



"The three (3) Police officers involved have been withdrawn and are to report to the Ghana Police Service for investigation and disciplinary action", the Ministry said in a statement signed by the Minister for National Security, Albert Kan-Dapaah.



A report of the committee that investigated the matter established that the conduct of Lieutenant Colonel Frank Agyeman and the officers was inappropriate and contravened the Ministrys standard operating procedures.



As part of his sanction, Lt. Col. Agyeman has been transferred to the Armed Forces to head the 64 Infantile Regiment.



Controvesies



Some security analysts and civil society groups have kicked agaisnt the decision.



A Security Analyst named Dr Ismael Norman, in an interview with Joy FM, was alarmed by Lt. Col. Agyeman's reappointment.



''...I believe it is a bit of an uncomfortable situation right now, but I can also understand why they want to exhaust the due processes under military law and ensure that they come to the same conclusion with National Security, then he will be appropriately punished'', he said.



According to CDD-Ghana, Lt. Col. Frank Agyemans reassignment is not an appropriate action.



A Director at CDD-Ghana, Dr. Kojo Asante said; One will say that intuitively, everybody will expect that at the minimum, some enquiry or investigation would happen first. I mean there was no rush, it is not like the 64 Battalion is going into whatever that needs to be done in 24 hours that you would even put somebody who is under the cloud to be commanding such a position. So, the whole thing is a bit strange.



Ghanaians Like Talking Too Much



Speaking on Peace FM's ''Kokrokoo'', Kwamena Duncan justified Lt. Col Agyeman's reassignment saying the fact that he has been removed from the National Security Ministry doesn't mean he should cease to be a soldier.



He pointed out that the Lieutenant Colonel is simply back to lead the 64 Infantry Regiment, a unit he headed prior to the secondment, adding that the military officer has not been promoted either in rank or position.



''Lt. Colonel Agyemang, he is no more seconded to National Security Ministry, it does not mean that he has ceased being a soldier and that, in his mother institution (Armed Forces), he cannot head,'' Kwamena Duncan stated.



He blasted Ghanaians for expressing their voices on the issue.



''We have become experts in everything...We talk too much. We like talking too much. Every thing we want to profess on them even when we have no knowledge.''





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Bernard Allotey Jacobs, former Central Regional Chairman of the largest opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), has scolded former Special Prosecutor, Martin Amidu over his recent accusations targeted at President Nana Akufo-Addo.



In an article authored by Martin Amidu, he accused the President of blackmailing some NDC Members of Parliament to do his bidding.



Article



He wrote; "In researching this rejoinder article I came across a news report by mynewsgh.com on Ghana Web dated 31st March 2021 with the heading: Akufo-Addo blackmailing  NDC double salary MPs to do his bidding  Joy which underpins the diversionary political propaganda being undertaken by the Office of the Attorney General and the Daily Guide Network. Mr. Jacob Osei Yeboah is reported to have asked a rhetorical question about what is happening in Parliament and answered as follows:



Whats Happening in the 8th Hung Parliament? Nana Addo is holding the balls of key double salary NDCs MPs in the 8th Hung Parliament. You all know that when a mans balls are being squeezed, his mind and actions are incoherently bizarre. So NDC rank and file be calm and understand Gen. Mosquito and Elders. .. NDC is now on Political Dialysis in the 8th Hung Parliament whilst Nana Addo keeps on squeezing the balls of all double salary NDCs MPs and corrupt high ranking members intermittently. Can NDC survive till 2024?



My resignation as the first Special Prosecutor was the result of the endemic attitude of President, Nana Akufo Addos penchant to usurp the constitutional authority of investigators and prosecutors in criminal justice administration as he tried to do in the Agyapa Royalties Transaction Anti-Corruption Risk Assessment Report implicating him.



My old school ethics and integrity as a lawyer of more than four decades standing guided me to resist the Presidents unconstitutional interference and resigned my office instead of being his poodle. It had nothing to do with the Members of Parliament double salaries which I never saw nor handled during my tenure. The Presidents responses to the media on 13th December 2018 is evidence, if evidence be needed, that this President determines who may be prosecuted for crime and not the Attorney General or Special Prosecutor as his pronouncements on the Members of Parliament double salaries amply demonstrates. God save Ghana from Corruption under this regime. Ghana First!''



Martin Amidu Is Going Too Far



"Martin Alamisi Amidu has gone too far," Allotey Jacobs told host Kwami Sefa Kayi on Peace FM's 'Kokrokoo' programme.



According to him, Mr. Amidu has "disgraced his own MPs. Assuming that it is true, you keep to yourself . . . His statement is a conspiratorial statement. He is doing something to feed into the public domain and the target is the Presidency . . . it undermines the intelligence of our own MPs in Parliament".



Like the biblical quote, "no weapon fashioned against you shall prosper'', Allotey stressed; ''For those who have been with Nana Akufo-Addo and I will repeat and I'll always repeat it, you will tag him and it will never fly . . . If you tag him with corruption, it won't fly."



''Better get something better against the man and not these frivolous statements. It will end nowhere and he's still in charge," he rebuked Martin Amidu.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Editor-in-Chief of the New Crusading Guide newspaper, Kweku Baako, has charged the Members of Parliament to clear themselves following accusations by former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu.



In an article authored by Martin Amidu, he accused the President of blackmailing some NDC Members of Parliament to do his bidding.



He wrote; ''In researching this rejoinder article I came across a news report by mynewsgh.com on Ghana Web dated 31st March 2021 with the heading: Akufo-Addo blackmailing  NDC double salary MPs to do his bidding  Joy which underpins the diversionary political propaganda being undertaken by the Office of the Attorney General and the Daily Guide Network. Mr. Jacob Osei Yeboah is reported to have asked a rhetorical question about what is happening in Parliament and answered as follows:



Whats Happening in the 8th Hung Parliament? Nana Addo is holding the balls of key double salary NDCs MPs in the 8th Hung Parliament. You all know that when a mans balls are being squeezed, his mind and actions are incoherently bizarre. So NDC rank and file be calm and understand Gen. Mosquito and Elders. .. NDC is now on Political Dialysis in the 8th Hung Parliament whilst Nana Addo keeps on squeezing the balls of all double salary NDCs MPs and corrupt high ranking members intermittently. Can NDC survive till 2024?



My resignation as the first Special Prosecutor was the result of the endemic attitude of President, Nana Akufo Addos penchant to usurp the constitutional authority of investigators and prosecutors in criminal justice administration as he tried to do in the Agyapa Royalties Transaction Anti-Corruption Risk Assessment Report implicating him.



My old school ethics and integrity as a lawyer of more than four decades standing guided me to resist the Presidents unconstitutional interference and resigned my office instead of being his poodle. It had nothing to do with the Members of Parliament double salaries which I never saw nor handled during my tenure. The Presidents responses to the media on 13th December 2018 is evidence, if evidence be needed, that this President determines who may be prosecuted for crime and not the Attorney General or Special Prosecutor as his pronouncements on the Members of Parliament double salaries amply demonstrates. God save Ghana from Corruption under this regime. Ghana First!''



Responding to the article, Kweku Baako stated that the allegations by Martin Amidu are serious and should not be swept under the carpet.



He asked the NDC MPs cited by Mr. Amidu to purge themselves of the accusations saying, "I don't believe it but, you see, this is a serious allegation that has some effect on those members. And I believe they know how to purge themselves of this allegation".



''Parliament as Parliament and they, Members of Parliament in the course of their work, if you're accused of certain things; you know what to do. Apart from the fact that there is a civil option - you can sue - in actual fact, within the Parliamentary business, standing orders and so forth, they know what to do . . . I'm stopping short of telling them what to do, exactement (exactly), but if your integrity is on the line in the course of discharging your business or Parliamentary responsibility, arguing on radio, rebutting it on radio or in the newspapers is not sufficient," he accentuated.





He, however, asked the President of the Republic, Nana Akufo-Addo, not to respond to Mr. Amidu's allegations."President doesn't have to respond to this thing. There are analysts who can answer some of those things, the question of Presidential interference."

Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Political Parties outside parliament have described the NDCs attitude and mindset towards the IPAC proposed electoral reforms as unfortunate and unwise.



At a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, 26th May 2021, the political parties also condemned the NDCs continuous condemnation of smaller political parties stake in decision making at the IPAC meeting towards electoral reforms that seek to strengthen our democracy.



Political Parties outside parliament will therefore appeal to the NDC to place their wisdom gourd on their back so we can all together reach the zenith of our democracy for the peace and development of our people, Alhaji Muhammed Frempong of NDP said in a statement read on behalf of the parties.





BELOW IS THE STATEMENT BY THE PARTIES



i. Supposed Temporary boycott of IPAC: Among many reasons the NDC assigned to its boycott of IPAC as pronounced by NDC Director of Elections is the inequitable voting rights at IPAC debates and denigrating other parties outside parliament. This contradicts the tendency and attitude of the NDC in the recent past when it rallied support of other parties to advance many objectives of the NDC.



This is legion but suffice it to recount a few. The NDC enlisted the support of a Coalition called (IPRAN, Inter-Party Resistance Against New Voter Register of Ghana) featuring prominently Gyatabas UFP, Odikes UPP, Bernard Mornas PNC, Ayarigas APC, etc; and it is an open secret to all political actors who were involved and participated in several demonstrations throughout Ghana.



By extension we could in future have the absurdity of the same equitable voice by segregation of number of votes of a parliamentary seat.



Today the NDC would call other Parties worthless but it forgets that it has pulled its own archival political parties as part of its voice, namely EGLE and Reform Party. Not long ago the venerable Ghana Freedom Party Presidential Candidate, Madam Akua Donkor, acted as the NDC Policy oracle and was prominent in the NDC Presidential entourage to Senchi forum as well as on foreign trips which included same allied Political Party Leadrs, namely, Gyataba, Akwasi Addai Odike, Bernard Morna, etc. What has changed now for this new position of seeking equity in voting at IPAC demanded by the NDC?



In keeping with a sound pluralistic atmosphere the participation by other political parties outside parliament has been and continues to be beneficial in nurturing our multiparty participatory Democracy.



Indeed any obnoxious impediments to widening the frontiers of participation of the citizenry and other political parties must not be accepted in the era of information technology and demand for national accountability.



Even though other political parties outside Parliament may be facing dire resource challenges we have the wealth of ideas, commitment and sincerity that match or even surpasses that of the duopoly in Parliament. Indeed it is also a known fact that we nurture and fertilize opinions of our citizenry in alternatives from which the duopoly pick a leaf or two.



The NDC should not forget that the CPP and to some extent the PNC derived from the PNP had once formed government and been in Parliament. Their present situation does not diminish their intelligence and policy relevance.



ii. NDC Alternate Reforms



The arguments the NDC advanced in its supposed alternate reforms could have been better stated and shared at IPAC and not outside. To consider its boycott of IPAC as temporary and to rejoin at any future date will just be a ploy to attract undeserved public attention, a disappointment and a dereliction of duty to its supporters.



A SORE LOSER:



The persistent condemnation by NDC of political parties that expressed support for the compilation of the 2020 new voters register at a joint IPAC and Eminent Advisory Committee meeting exposed NDC as a Sore Loser.

At a 2-day workshop in 2015 at Alisa Hotel political parties purportedly supported the NDC rejection of new voter register under Madam Charlotte Osei.



How fia-fia were the political parties then?



It is common knowledge that in a democracy obsession with desire for power does not translate into an entitlement when all parties must subject themselves to rules and process.



iii. Political Grandstanding



The saying that if wishes were horses beggars will ride aptly applies to the NDC in their unrelenting posture of seeing every act in our democratic process as going against them as the largest opposition.



It is a dictatorial and seditious attitude to think that the NDC should always have its way.



Indeed the NDC itself has Superintended over many of the issues it complains of today. The tradition has thus been inherited from the NDC.



We have seen the NPP in a minority which also pursued its demands but never boycotted IPAC, not that we may recall. The premises of the EC equally if not more has been militarized in the tenure of Madam Charlotte Osei when the NPP was a minority.



Again there must be a decent closure to every dispute pursued appropriately by a democratic process or adjudicated at competent court of jurisdiction. Political grandstanding in casting aspersions and innuendoes at democratically mandated state institutions smacks of deliberate sedition that the state has obligation to nip in the bud.

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Mali's interim president, Bah Ndaw and Prime Minister, Moctar Ouane resigned on Wednesday May 26, two days after they were arrested by the military.



"The president and his prime minister have resigned. Negotiations are ongoing for their liberation and the formation of a new government," said Baba Cisse, an aide to Vice President Assimi Goita , in comments sent by the military to Reuters.



According to the report, the resignation was presented to Assimi Goita, the transitional vice president, during an emergency meeting with former Nigerian president Jonathan Goodluck and his delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).



At the meeting, they raised the possibility of sanctions against the officers responsible for the takeover, according to a military official who was present.



Vice president Goita is now expected to become transitional president after Bah NDaws resignation. The colonel, who also orchestrated last year's coup has promised that elections planned for next year will go ahead.



President Bah Ndaw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane were taken to a military base outside the capital on Monday, in what is the second coup in the Sahel nation in the past year, after a cabinet reshuffle in which two officers lost their posts.













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President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is perpetrating illegality because there is no law in Ghana that warrants, mandates or authorises the burning of excavators in the small-scale mining sector, former Lands and Natural Resources Minister Alhaji Inusah Fuseini has said.



According to Mr Fuseini, it is disappointing that the President, who is also a lawyer of many years experience and in good standing at the Bar, would justify such illegality instead of upholding the laws of the country.



Speaking at a sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of the Law Village Project in Accra on Wednesday, 26 April 2021, President Akufo-Addo asked Ghanaians who disagree with his approach of burning excavators and equipment in his fight against galamsey to proceed to court for redress.



The President said: I know there are some who believe that the ongoing exercise of ridding our water bodies and forest zones of harmful equipment and machinery is unlawful and, in some cases, harsh.



I strongly disagree, and I would advise those who take a contrary view to go to court to vindicate their position if they so wish. That is what the rule of law is all about.



The Ghana Law Reports of modern times are littered with cases in which my clients thought it necessary to challenge government action. On the majority of occasions, the courts upheld my contentions, in a few others, they did not.



The rule of law, he said does not recognise social status, religious persuasion, political affiliation, ethnic origins or regional adherence but merely the law and precedent, the ancient common law doctrine of stare decisis.



Reacting to this on news on Class FM Wednesday, 26 May 2021, Mr Fuseini said Nana Akufo-Addo would have been summoned before parliament in some jurisdictions because his approach is illegal.



The former Member of Parliament for Tamale Central said: Im so disappointed because this is a president who swore on the Bible to uphold the laws of the country including the constitution of the country and to protect lives and property. This is the president who swore that oath.



Now theres no law in Ghana that warrants, mandates, authorises the burning of excavators in the small scale mining sector and specifically, the laws that deal with mining in Ghana is the Minerals and Mining Act and in the amendment to the act, we have detailed as a country about seven steps that can be taken to deal with illegal small-scale mining.



I believe that if those steps are followed clearly, it will serve as enough disincentive for people who are bent on carrying on that illegal activity. But be as it may, I dont think the president can use his executive authority under Article 58 of the Constitution to justify illegality.



Alhaji Fuseini noted that the presidents statement would have warranted an impeachment in advanced democracies.



In fact, elsewhere, the president would have been summoned before parliament in the British system to answer why hes flouting the laws of the country and in some jurisdictions, clearly, the statement that the president has made would have exposed him to impeachment proceedings because you cant swear to uphold the laws of the country and also be acting with impunity, you cant do that and thats why Im disappointed.



The president is not only the president of this country, hes a lawyer of many years experience and in good standing at the Bar and he should be seen to be upholding the laws of the country and encouraging people to uphold the laws of the country, the former lawmaker said.





Source: classfmonline.com









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Dr Vladimir Antwi-Danso, the Dean of the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC), says the Electoral Commission needs protection from political parties and the citizenry.



EC is the main prop of democracy and if we derail it, we will be in a bad state. Political parties that have issues regarding their work must find a better and diplomatic way to communicate to the Commission and help it to improve on its work, he said.



Dr Antwi-Danso, addressing the media in Accra, said it was natural for political parties to engage in contestation but in doing so care must be taken not compromise the EC.



He scored the Commission high marks in the 2020 presidential and parliamentary elections and called for support from the populace for the Commission.



Within 38 days amid COVID-19 they successfully compiled voters register, bought new devices, employed effective technology in the process and voting was smooth, he noted.



Dr Antwi-Danso said all the innovations were the improvement over the 2016 elections, which was saddled with many problems.



Yes, there are infractions in every election even that of the United States of America so was that of Ghana in 2020. We need to talk about it and share ideas on how to make our EC perfect. But to contradict the Commission at every turn is unacceptable, he said.



Dr Antwi-Danso said it was wrong to blame the EC for the death of the seven persons during the elections explaining that the Commissions mandate was to conduct elections while the security services were mandated to provide security.



The security officials have their mandate to help the EC if it so happened that the security agencies did not follow their standard procedure then EC cannot be blamed, he said.



We need to understand constitutionalism and institutionalism and their mandates. Do we understand the Electoral Commission? If we do, then we will know when to help cause a change and when we are making a mockery of them. Beyond that we are sowing the seed for chaos, he stated.



Dr Antwi-Danso asked members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to bury their differences and go back to the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC).



The EC held an IPAC meeting to review its performance in the 2020 general election, however, the NDC did not show up at the meeting.

Source: GNA









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Washington DC, US (PANA) - US President Joe Biden has expressed deep concern at the escalating violence and the hardening of regional and ethnic divisions in multiple parts of Ethiopia and called for a ceasefire
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PokerNews Podcast: Getting Candid w/ "Poker Sasha" Liu

May 27, 2021 Chad Holloway

On the latest special episode of the PokerNews Podcast, Sarah Herring, Jeff Platt, and Chad Holloway talk about some poker players who are expecting babies, Simon Mattsson winning the WPT Online Series High Roller, and recap winners from MISCOOP, NJSCOOP, WSOPC Caesars Atlantic City Online Series.

They also break down the Chad Power burglary saga and remember poker legend Tommy Hufnagle, who recently passed away.

As for this week's guest, Sarah sits down with Sasha Liu, AKA "Poker Sasha," who talks about her start in poker, working in the casino industry, becoming a pot-limit Omaha player, signing on as a GGPoker Ambassador, and what her life is like now living in Germany.

Big thanks to the special sponsor this week in Elite Chip Care, which you can learn more about here.

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Tell us who you want to hear from. Let us know what you think of the show  tweet about the podcast using #PNPod, and be sure to follow Sarah Herring, Jeff Platt and Chad Holloway on Twitter.

Subscribe to the PokerNews Podcast on Apple Podcasts here!

Check Out Past Episodes of the PN Podcast Here!
Itemizer-Observer

DALLAS -- After a skipping a year due to the pandemic, the Memorial Day Avenue of Flags are returning this week.

Dallas Cemetery Board Chair Michael Bollman said last year the local American Legion Post #20 and the Dallas Cemetery District #4 made the difficult decision together not to have the Avenue of Flags, an American Legion tradition for over 25 years, due to the pandemic and COVID restrictions.

Bollman said the Cemetery Board and the American Legion for the last several months have been monitoring the weekly COVID restrictions. Theyve decided the time is right to bring back the tradition. American Legion members will be assembling and putting up the Avenue of Flags Thursday at 9 a.m.

This year, the Dallas Fire Department and some of the retirees will be assisting the American Legion Post.

I know the community was disappointed not having the flag display and Memorial Day Program, Bollman said. We were all saddened by this. We are hoping that at least by having the Avenue of Flags in place is a positive step for the community.

Bollman added the American Legion hopes to bring the Memorial Day Program back next year.
Itemizer-Observer

MONMOUTH  When Executive Director Kathleen Mason wanted to update the Monmouth-Independence Chamber of Commerces logo, she reached out to the creative minds at Western Oregon University.

So pleased was she with the results, Mason again reached out them for a larger project to transform the blank walls within the chamber office into a tribute to the community.

The labor of that project came to fruition when the student artwork was hung last Friday, with 13 original pieces of tourism poster art.

Jen Bracy, WOU Professor of Art and Design, and students from her Advanced Topics in Graphic Design were excited to take on Masons challenge.

Its hard for me as a graphic design professor to justify a painted mural project in more traditional sense, Bracy said. I thought what if we did something more graphic design-y? Tourism posters are a great way to promote the area. Theyre a good design challenge.

She and Mason first collaborated on redesigning the chambers logo last winter. Mason said the old chamber logo with its quill representing WOU and half a wheel standing for pioneers, was too old looking when she came into the position two years ago.

I immediately hated it. I know it had historical significance, but I had worked with other history places. We needed to make it relevant, Mason said. Jen got her students involved in real world experience. The new logo is vibrant, colorful, forward looking. It reminds people of lot of different elements of Polk County, Monmouth and Independence.

When Bracy asked what else could her students do, Mason quickly had her next project in mind.

I told her what we needed, we moved into this suite, with all blank walls. I used to own an art gallery and I hate blank walls, Mason said. I stepped back a little bit and thought, wow, theyre going to create something thats unique and marvelous.

Bracy said she always tries to give her graphics di students real world problems and opportunities to meet with community partners whenever possible in a number of collaborations. Thats when they decided tourism posters were the perfect outlet for an organization that encourages visitors to the region.

First, they established themes - outdoors, history/heritage, landmarks and commerce/agriculture. Next the students collaborated with one another so there would be no duplications, yet would still match as a whole, creating a harmony as they were hung together.

The easiest way is through color. Theyre pretty ecletic and are still not totally matching, Bracy said.

She explained that tourism posters allow people to think beyond a certain image. Bracy then took the project an extra step between design and art by putting the posters on canvas and arranging them in a coherent and eye-catching layout.

Senior Kaity Paul, who is pursuing an art and design degree and helped redesign the chamber logo, was given the theme education.

I liked how some tourism posters are maps of a certain place, so I did a map of Westerns campus and highlighted some buildings that were important, Paul said. Her poster became the focal point for the layout. I thought it was fun. I think it was hard to match colors and match other peoples themes. But it was a fun challenge. Doing your own thing, yet not doing your own thing.

Junior Jenaya Stevenson, an art design major with dance minor, was excited to take on the theme landmarks. She featured the giant sequoia, which stood out when she first toured the WOU campus. She was happy to be given a project that went beyond a personal keepsake.

I feel a lot of the work Ive been doing hasnt been tangible, or seen by a lot of people, actually giving something to the community thats going to last, Stevenson said. Its a representation of my schoolwork and my ethic, and just working with classmates is just a really awesome opportunity to do.

Mason said drawing from their own extensive art backgrounds, chamber board members Adry Clark and Roxanne Beltz also contributed constructive, professional comments and suggestions during Bracys class.

Beltz, who is also on the Monmouth City Council and has a background in graphic design, said when she found out about the collaboration between Mason and Bracy, she had to be a part of it.

The process Ive gone through, attended zoom classes with them, students asked all kinds of questions about Monmouth, Independence, what we wanted to see, colors and theme, style, Beltz said. I can see a lot of them went with green and blue from the logo. They picked that up with this, which is good to do as a designer to see what are people using? What is the theme? They did a great job.

In addition to Paul and Stevenson, the installation was completed by fellow students Jessica Bailey, Carla Oberst, Josephine Lin and Marita Nash. The mini art gallery is on display at the Monmouth-Independence Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center at 355 Pacific Ave. N., Suite B, in Monmouth. Office hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
New York, US (PAA) - The UN Security Council met behind closed doors on Wednesday to discuss the derailing of Malis transitional government following the apparent forced departure of both the President and Prime Minister on Tuesday, by the leader of last Augusts military coup
Itemizer-Observer

DALLAS  Senator Brian Boquist, of District 12-Dallas, intends to file a complaint with the offices of the Oregon State Police and Polk County District Attorney Aaron Felton over an incident involving his son and arresting deputies from the Polk County Sheriffs Office.

Boquists complaint follows the arrest of his son William Boquist early Sunday morning for driving under the influence of an intoxicant. In a public records request to the PCSO, Boquist is seeking the body cam footage from the incident. In it, Boquist also disputes the events as detailed in the official report, including identifying himself as a state senator and being unhappy with the incident.

I look forward to getting the audio and video cams as my political position was never mentioned in any manner what-so-ever, Boquist said in a statement to The Itemizer-Observer. I look forward to the unhappy and state senator proof as does not exist.

Boquist served two terms as State Representative in House District 23 and is now in his fourth term as State Senator in rural District 12, which is comprised of House Districts 23 and 24.

According to PCSO reports, their dispatch received a driving complaint at 11:52 p.m. Saturday, regarding a white Ford Mustang that was unable to maintain its lane repeatedly. The witness followed the vehicle as it returned to the 17000 block of Butler Hill Road. The witness observed the driver turn off onto Butler Hill Road, according to the report.

A PCSO deputy arrived minutes later, according to the report, locating the suspects vehicle at the registered owners residence, and observed William Boquist exit the driver seat.

According to the responding deputy, William Boquist exhibited indicators of impairment and consented to a field sobriety test, which he performed poorly on. He was arrested at 1:08 a.m. Sunday and recorded a 0.13% blood alcohol content at the Polk County Jail.

He was cited and released outside to the care of his father, Sen. Brian Boquist.

According to the report, Senator Boquist said he was unhappy with the officer and deputy and advised he would be reporting them to the State Police and District Attorney Felton.

Boquist said in his statement to the I-O that the newspapers inquiry into the incident and Sheriff Mark Gartons handling of it were politically motivated.

The Sheriff and you apparently have made something political out of something that regards an adult son, Boquist wrote. Just like the media has tried to make the death of another son political, which is disgusting.

In his public records request, Brian Boquist said he was not aware of anyone identifying me as State Senator in any manner what-so-ever when your Deputies came through two gates on to my private property. My first knowledge of their presence is of a person walking around outside our little house with a flashlight on our security camera. None of your vehicles had police lights on nor did your deputies bother to knock on our door to announce themselves, regardless of their intent as one wandering around our property. You and your deputies are fully aware of the prowler and property theft reports on our property.

Brian Boquist further explained his brief interaction with deputies was short, polite and courteous.

I was in the doorway of our home when your deputies were getting ready to leave the property. It is one of your deputies who posed questions he said out of curiosity. So, lets have your agencys cam and audio tapes as well. Lets have the quotes below.

Garton confirmed receiving Boquists public records request and his intent to contact OSP and Felton, but Boquist didnt specifically say why. Garton added he didnt think he would be able to comply with the request as its related to a criminal investigation.

I think his idea of politically motivated is for us calling him Senator Boquist, Garton told the Itemizer-Observer. I looked at the video footage and I didnt hear him ever identify himself, but the deputies know who he is and its likely a respect thing to call him by his title.
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On the third Thursday in May, Ukrainians at home and abroad celebrate Vyshyvanka Day. The vyshyvanka is a traditional, Ukrainian-embroidered shirt, typically made of linen but now available in various materials. Celebrants usually partake in flashmobs dressed in their vyshyvankas, and non-Ukrainian friends and family members often also take part.

Since Ukraines Revolution of Dignity in 2014, there has been a greater push for Ukrainian language and culture in a country that long languished under Moscows grip and continues to be heavily influenced by its Soviet past.

This year, the informal holiday took place on May 20, but a scandal erupted online when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskys office posted an official photo for the event.

Standing next to his wife, Zelensky appeared to be wearing a traditional Russian shirt known as a kosovorotka. The photo was hit by a crush of criticism inside Ukraine, where Zelenskys political opponents have long portrayed him as too conciliatory toward Russia, seven years after it has invaded and occupied part of Ukraine.

But Russian officials also mocked the photo. Russias RIA Novosti state news agency quoted the countrys Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova, who wrote about the flap on Facebook:

Everything is mixed up in the house of Zelensky, she wrote. Volodymyr Oleksandrovych [Zelensky] celebrating Vyshyvanka Day in a kosovorotka is priceless.

That is false. In fact, Zelensky was not wearing a shirt with a Russian design.

To be sure, the shirt resembles a Russian style and looks very different from the traditional Ukrainian vyshyvanka, whose most recognizable feature is the rectangular embroidered panel extending down from the collar. But, according to an article published by the fashion magazine Vogue in Ukraine, the style has roots in Ukraine.

The shirts Zelensky and his wife Olena were wearing in the photo were custom-designed by the Ukrainian fashion design brand ARTEMKLIMCHUK. According to Vogue Ukraine, the designers found the embroidery pattern in a museum in Ukraines Dnipropetrovsk region, and the design as a whole hails from that part of the country.

When creating the embroidered shirt for Volodymyr, we took the national costume of the Dnipro region as a basis, the designer Artem Klimchuk told Vogue Ukraine.

For the east of Ukraine, the side hem on the shirt was a fairly typical element, very popular in the 19th century.

That explanation failed to satisfy everyone. The independent Ukrainian news agency Hromadske reported that according to ethnographers, this outfit is neither a Russian shirt nor a traditional Ukrainian one, but a rather mediocre modern design.

Ukraine was still part of the Russian Empire in the 19th century, so the Dnipro-region design could well have been influenced by Russian fashions. The kosovorotka's most notable feature is an off-center opening below the collar, hence some of the resemblance to Zelensky's shirt. Some examples can be seen in Pinterest.
An Aiken County man was sentenced Wednesday to 10 years in prison for several charges involving sexual exploitation of and sexual conduct with a minor.

Grant Reeder, of Jackson, pleaded guilty Wednesday to one count of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, one count of second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor and one count of criminal solicitation of a minor, according to the S.C. Attorney General's Office.

Judge Clifton Newman sentenced Reeder to seven years in prison on the sexual exploitation of a minor charge, to be followed by three years in prison on the criminal sexual conduct with a minor and the criminal solicitation of a minor charges, for a total of 10 years.

Reeder received 651 days credit for the time he has already spent under house arrest with electronic monitoring. When he is released, he will have to register as a sex offender.

On June 21, 2019, the Aiken County Sheriffs Office responded to a call about a potential sexual assault in Aiken County. The woman who called said she had recently found a couple of letters that indicated Reeder, who was over 18 at the time, had sex with her minor daughter. Further investigation by the Sheriffs Office revealed that Reeder had initially reached out to the girl over social media.

A search of the minor victims phone found that Reeder had sent her multiple written messages that were sexual in nature between November 2018 and June 2019. The investigation also revealed that Reeder had requested nude images from her and that he had sent the minor images and videos of himself.
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Aiken County Sheriffs Office deputies on Tuesday shot an armed man in Ridge Spring, authorities said, an incident now under investigation by the S.C. Law Enforcement Division.

Aiken County Sheriff Michael Hunt requested the SLED review, according to information provided by Capt. Eric Abdullah.

Deputies on Tuesday night responded to 4002 Columbia Highway North for a disturbance and a report of a person armed with a gun, according to a Wednesday morning statement from the Sheriffs Office.

When police arrived, they were confronted by a Black male, armed with a handgun, the Sheriffs Office said. While deputies gave verbal commands to drop the weapon, the suspect pointed his weapon towards deputies, who responded by firing their weapons at the suspect.

The man was shot once in the torso. He was brought to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, according to SLED. No one else was hurt.

Neither the Sheriffs Office nor state police disclosed the name or age of the man shot. The ongoing investigation means no other information about the case will be disclosed by SLED at this time, the agency said in a statement.

Tuesdays incident was the 17th shooting involving police in South Carolina in 2021.

Check back with the Aiken Standard for the latest information.
President Joe Bidens pick to lead the National Nuclear Security Administration on Thursday suggested a plan to craft nuclear weapon cores at the Savannah River Site had slipped in terms of schedule, potentially imperiling South Carolinas expanded role in the modernization of the nations nuclear weapons.

While the production of 30 plutonium pits per year at New Mexicos Los Alamos National Laboratory remains on track for 2026, nominee Jill Hruby told U.S. senators, 50 pits per year at Savannah River, originally planned for 2030, is likely to, now, be somewhere between 2030 and 2035.

Analysts, environmentalists and National Nuclear Security Administration critics were quick to pile on; Hrubys Thursday remarks, made before the Senate Armed Services Committee, were to some confirmation of long-running suspicions.

I think she was only affirming the reality of the situation and what weve been expecting, said Tom Clements, the director of Savannah River Site Watch, a Columbia-based monitor. Los Alamos Study Groups Greg Mello offered a similar assessment: Im not shocked. The Institute for Defense Analyses said as much in 2019.

An independent review two years ago ruled that no available plutonium pit production method would likely satisfy the demand for the cores in a timely manner, among other damning findings. The Department of Defense, the study stated, should consider how to best respond to the shortfall.

Nearly everyone who has assessed the NNSAs plan to produce at least 80 pits per year by 2030 has determined that the goal is not achievable, said Kingston Reif, the director of disarmament and threat reduction policy at the Arms Control Association. It remains to be seen, he continued, whether the administration and Congress will change course as reality demands, or continue to waste taxpayers dollars chasing a fantasy.

A National Nuclear Security Administration spokesperson on Thursday said early designs submitted for the Savannah River Site were peer reviewed by subject-matter experts from Los Alamos and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories and both assessed that the 50-pits-per-year minimum can be achieved. The provided schedule range, the spokesperson noted, was 2031-2035.

Hruby, who would lead the National Nuclear Security Administration following Senate confirmation, on Thursday described the jumpstart and expansion of pit production as the agencys biggest contemporary hurdle. Other officials  past and present  have said the same. U.S. Strategic Command boss Adm. Charles Richard, for example, has portrayed the multibillion-dollar endeavor as the biggest stockpile modernization issue.

This is an example where if we dont recapitalize the infrastructure, Richard said in April, we will lose a key piece of what it means, what you have to have to be a nuclear weapons state.

The U.S. for years has lacked the means to make plutonium pits  key warhead components  at a significant capacity.

In May 2018, the National Nuclear Security Administration and the Defense Department recommended producing the cores in two places: South Carolina and New Mexico. By 2030, they jointly counseled, 50 pits per year would be produced south of Aiken, utilizing the Mixed Oxide Fuel Fabrication Facility footprint, and 30 pits per year would be produced near Santa Fe, New Mexico, using an upgraded plutonium facility known as PF-4.

Both Hruby and Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm support the tandem approach. (U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson, a South Carolina Republican on the House Armed Services Committee, does too.)

I believe that the two-site solution is a good solution for a couple of reasons, said Hruby, who retired as the director of Sandia National Laboratories in 2017. One is that  as expressed by NNSA and, again, I agree  its more resilient than a one-site solution, should anything go wrong, should there be an accident. It allows the other site to continue to make pits.

Relying solely on Los Alamos, Hruby said, would demand much more infrastructure investment. Leveraging the Savannah River Site and MOX, the failed nuclear fuel facility, allows us to have a cost-effective program, use the talents across the NNSA complex.

Establishing the production of 30 pits per year at Los Alamos could cost between $2.7 billion and $3.9 billion, according to an early estimate published by the National Nuclear Security Administration. A more solid cost and schedule baseline is expected in 2023.

A consequential decision concerning plutonium pit production at the Savannah River Site is expected sometime next month. The project milestone, known formally as Critical Decision-1, should arrive in mid- to late-June, according to people familiar with the matter.

This summer, efforts will focus on advancing the Savannah River Plutonium Processing Facility through the Critical Decision process, acting National Nuclear Security Administration chief Charles Verdon said in written testimony earlier this month.

The successful execution of the Savannah River Site pit project, the spokesperson said, is vital to restore the nations ability to produce plutonium pits to ensure the long-term effectiveness of the U.S. nuclear stockpile.
Iranian President Says Cryptocurrency Mining 'Must Stop' Until September

05/27/21

Source: RFE/RL

Iranian President Hassan Rohani has announced a four-month ban on all cryptocurrency mining in response to unplanned power cuts that have hit major Iranian cities. In televised remarks on May 26, Rohani said "cryptocurrency activities and mining cryptocurrencies must stop" across Iran until September 22.

Iranian officials have repeatedly blamed unlicensed cryptocurrency miners for using vast amounts of electricity -- draining the power grid and raising air pollution levels in many cities.

The operations are an enormous energy drain because they use banks of high-powered computers to try to unlock complex numerical puzzles related to international financial transactions.

When successful, cryptocurrency miners create units of so-called digital coins that can be traded globally without the scrutiny and restrictions of traditional financial markets.

Facing tough U.S. economic sanctions, Iran in August 2019 eased restrictions on cryptocurrencies to circumvent the traditional financial markets it is blocked from using. As a result, cryptocurrencies like bitcoin that are "legally" mined in Iran can now be used to finance imports from other countries.

Meanwhile, Iran's subsidized energy has made power-sucking mining operations cheaper there than in other countries.

Iranian authorities admit that this has caused thousands of "illegal" cryptocurrency farms to sprout up.

Rohani said on May 26 that "illegal" cryptocurrency miners who have access to subsidized power are now consuming up to seven times more power than those with permits for legal cryptocurrency operations. Iran introduced rolling blackouts on May 23 to reduce pressure on the national power grid.

National electricity company spokesman Mostafa Rajabi Mashhadi said on May 22 that licensed cryptocurrency miners have already voluntarily shut down their operations to ease the burden.

On May 25, Energy Minister Reza Ardakanian issued an apology to Iranians for "shortcomings and pressures" that have resulted in unexpected blackouts.

Ardakanian said Iran's power grid was overburdened because a drought has reduced hydropower generation while unexpectedly warm weather has raised demand for air conditioning.

With reporting by AFP
Charleston International helped usher in a new era in the commercial aviation industry with the May 27 launch of Breeze Airways.

The new low-fare carriers first-ever flight arrived in the Lowcountry from Tampa, Fla., around midday and was turned around for an afternoon departure to Hartford, Conn.

By late July, Breeze plans to offer nonstop service from the Charleston region's main airport to 11 mostly mid-tier cities, with one-way fares starting at $39. Luggage and seat assignment fees are extra.

The Salt Lake City-based airline is one of two that are cranking up operations as pandemic-weary Americans start to travel again. The other, Avelo, is focusing on smaller, underserved West Coast destinations but is planning to expand to the East Coast later this year.

They're the first new major U.S. carriers to take off since 2007, when Virgin America began flying.

And both are looking to fill gaps in the nation's air travel system that larger, established rivals have largely ignored.

Breeze is the brainchild of JetBlue founder and aviation entrepreneur David Neeleman, who provided $17 million of the $83 million that the privately held company raised from investors. Until now, he said, nonstop air service wasn't available on 95 percent of the cities his startup is aiming to connect.

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In a report that aired on NBC's "Today" show May 27, Neeleman estimated that Breeze could potentially pair together "hundreds" of underserved markets "that really don't make sense for some of the other guys."

"There could be 50 cities we could serve out of here," he told The Post and Courier last week.

The chief executive of Southwest Airlines, which also serves Charleston and is beefing up its local schedule, acknowledged the newcomers at the Dallas-based company's annual meeting earlier this month.

I think all the competition is significant for us, CEO Gary Kelly told shareholders. And a lot of it will depend with what routes new airlines choose. For the most part, I dont think ... that were seeing any direct overlap ... plus at this stage of their corporate lives, theyre relatively small.

Charleston International was picked as one of four main route bases for Utah-based Breeze. The others are in Tampa, New Orleans and Norfolk, Va.

The airline's initial route map from the Lowcountry is concentrated east of the Mississippi River, with trips averaging less than two hours on a small fleet of 108- and 118-seat Embraer jets. Flights are mostly being offered on Thursday, Friday, Sunday and Monday.

Neeleman said Charleston matches up nicely with Breeze's strategy of catering mostly to budget-conscious leisure travelers with flexible schedules. During his first visit to the region last week, he called it "a place where people want to go."
Many enslaved Africans  about one in five  arrived at North American ports as Muslims.

But their story remains little known.

Historian Sylviane Diouf wrote the first edition of her book Servants of Allah: African Muslims Enslaved in the Americas in 1998. She revised it 15 years later to re-explore the question: Why had so little attention been paid to Muslims brought from Africa and enslaved here?

For all their contributions and accomplishments, the Muslims have largely been ignored, Diouf wrote.

Estimates of their numbers range widely, from about 10 to 30 percent of enslaved Africans in North America, or pushing 120,000 people.

+26 A quest for the true identity of Omar ibn Said, a Muslim man enslaved in the Carolinas Omar ibn Said was captured in Senegal at 37 and enslaved in Charleston. A devout Muslim, he later converted to the Christian faith of his enslavers. Or did he?

That means many African Americans have Muslim ancestors.

Diouf is a descendant of the 17th-century founder of the Islamic university of Pir in Senegal. As she read hundreds of books about slavery over the years, she noticed a shocking absence of scholarship about enslaved African Muslims. Even recently, as academics examine myriad aspects of slavery in America, little has appeared about this key group.

Why did they disappear as Muslims? Diouf asked.

Notable exceptions include Muslims enslaved just south of Charleston on Georgia's Sea Islands who retained their faith and are well-remembered in history.

Bilali Muhammad was enslaved on Sapelo Island where he worked as a head driver on a large plantation. He also penned a 13-page Arabic text that is the earliest known Islamic document written in the United States.

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On the island to his immediate south, his friend Salih Bilali was enslaved on St. Simons. Bilali also became head driver, supervising more than 400 people. He, too, retained his Muslim faith throughout his life, reading the Quran daily and reportedly praising Allah and Mohammad in his final words.

But these men aren't the norm in recorded history.

Perhaps that is because White historians didnt know  or care  much about Islam. They also might have focused on enslaved people who adhered to animist religions because they fit the narrative of the uncivilized African more easily than Islam, a fellow Abrahamic faith.

In fact, Islam arrived in North America in the 1500s when Spanish and Portuguese explorers brought enslaved Muslims with them, said Ayla Amon, curatorial assistant at the Smithsonians National Museum of African American History and Culture. She is writing a book translating Omar ibn Said's surviving texts.

The thousands of Muslims who followed brought traditions still evident today, especially among Gullah communities. Many Gullah words derive from Arabic, and Amon sees convincing arguments that the "ring shout," a kind of religious dance, is related to the ritual circling of the Kaaba in Mecca.

These are still very much living traditions," Amon said, "so we are seeing the legacies of these first African Muslims.

Yet when scholars examine religion during slavery and Jim Crow, they often focus on the Black church, even though few Africans arrived here as Christians. Most converted to the faith of their enslavers  by choice, necessity or force.

For generations, the Black Church had been seen as the historical religious foundation of African Americans, Diouf wrote, but Islam complicated the narrative.
GEORGETOWN  Time and again, Marilyn Hemingway said Georgetown's Gullah Geechee community has not had the opportunity to honor its enslaved ancestors.

The reinterring and recognition of their commingled, previously mishandled remains is a good place to start, she said.

"This isn't healing everything, at all, but I do believe this gives us an opportunity to create a process on how we honor and respect our ancestors," said Hemingway, president of the Gullah Geechee Chamber of Commerce.

Holy Cross Faith Memorial Church in Litchfield's Rev. Will Keith and lead forensic analyst of the remains Bill Stevens attended a reintering ceremony May 23 to pray over and speak on the history of the enslaved.

The names of these individuals and the full stories of their lives are unknown. But they are not forgotten, said Georgetown County Administrator Angela Christian. Its time to lay them to rest again with all the dignity and respect they deserve.

The remains were originally unearthed and commingled during residential construction on Hagley Plantation in 2006, according to a press release about the event. The developer alerted the county of its findings and according to the county, that is when Stevens, Richland County deputy coroner and forensic anthropologist, was brought in to analyze the remains further.

Through Stevens' years of research alongside Georgetown County's coroner at the time, Kenny Johnson, he and Johnson found that the remains were originally buried at what was St. Mary's Chapel on the plantation. The chapel is believed to have been built in 1859 by an enslaved master carpenter named Renty Tucker.

Stevens said Tucker's enslavers, the Weston family, sent him to England to learn how to build intricate and beautiful chapels such as St. Mary's. The Westons, like many other slave-owning families, were of Episcopal faith.

The Westons were known to be less cruel than other slave families, Stevens said, which is why they likely wanted him to learn master carpentry. Stevens emphasized, though, that this does not excuse the fact they still enslaved people such as Tucker.

Hemingway said owners such as the Westons are believed to have instilled their faiths onto their slaves, though, as a form of oppression, complicating the idea that the Westons wanting Tucker to know carpentry is a positive one.

"These slaves more than likely were Islamic, not Christian," Hemingway said, emphasizing the importance of understanding slave culture and heritage.

Tucker's chapel was burned in 1931, though the head stones and grave markers of the cemetery remained. Stevens found that while the remains were unearthed in 2006, the grave markers were bulldozed in the late 1970s by the funeral home that was contracted to move them by the residential developer.

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Unfortunately, Stevens said, that moving of the remains never happened.

"(The developer) hired the services of a funeral home to ... relocate the cemetery to another location, but we don't believe that that happened," Stevens said.

Hemingway said that in the past, Holy Cross Faith Memorial Church was a predominantly Black church, and Keith explained that the church came to be after the Emancipation Proclamation when former slaves gathered to educate their children.

It was from those school houses the church was born, Keith said. While the church's makeup is quite different now, it is an important mission for Keith to continue to honor his church's heritage and be inspired by it rather than halted by it.

Keith also said he understands the Episcopal faith was sometimes oppressively instilled onto slaves. Because of this, while he looks forward to honoring the remains of the enslaved, he hopes to not be the spotlight of the ceremony.

"I don't know if it's my place to be front and center, and luckily in our worship tradition the leader of the service certainly doesn't have to be in the spotlight," Keith said. "The mechanics of (the service) are my responsibility, but as far as the issues related to race, I think others will speak better on it."

Hemingway is grateful those who found the remains in 2006 gave them to the county, and that the county wants to honor her Gullah Geechee ancestors. She hoped that this reinterring would be the beginning of a conversation on how to form an official process for honoring slave remains that are found during development.

With the high volume of development in Georgetown County, specifically in the Waccamaw Neck, this won't be the last time remains are found, she said.

"I think if we develop a process for who should be involved when bones are discovered  from the cultural point of view, the heritage point of view  then moving forward we can continue to have these events that will lead to closure on a certain part of our history," Hemingway said.

While the remains were laid to rest, Stevens said DNA had been collected from them and will continue to be tested. Stevens said he hopes to register the DNA in public databases so they can be found on sites such as 23andMe and Ancestry.com.

Maybe, Stevens said, folks can research their lineage easier this way, and better understand and appreciate their ancestors and heritage.
GREER  The sewers under Greer's industrial area southeast of town are getting a $4.2 million boost, which economic developers say will encourage hundreds of millions of dollars in investment in years to come.

Greer's Commission of Public Works (CPW) announced May 24 that it had secured the final piece of funding needed to replace and enlarge a 25-year-old wastewater pump station at the BMW Manufacturing plant just outside Greer on the city's Spartanburg County side. Greer CPW provides power, water, sewer and natural gas services to 83,000 customers in Greer, but its largest customer  BMW  is just outside city limits.

The new pump station will secure service to a manufacturing and distribution cluster that includes BMW, as well as areas northeast of the SUV plant and areas along state Highway 101 south of Interstate 85, according to a statement from Greer CPW.

Reliable service and 50 percent more capacity could support up to $600 million in future investment and 600 jobs in Greer, the statement said.

"It really gives us a great opportunity to compete for new projects," Reno Deaton, executive director of the Greer Development Corporation, told The Post and Courier.

Construction could be finished by the summer of 2022, said Alison Rauch, a spokeswoman for Greer CPW.

As much as possible, wastewater operators lay sewer lines on an incline to take advantage of gravity to move wastewater toward treatment plants. Pump stations are necessary where an area's topography doesn't allow gravity flow. Greer CPW's pump station at BMW lifts wastewater to a gravity line just north of Highway 101 across from the BMW plant, according to the operator's statement.

The $4.2 million project will redirect some of that flow and free up capacity for future growth north of BMW, the Greer CPW statement said.

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"We are really fortunate that there are lots of eyes in the development and end-user community on that corridor," Deaton said of Highway 101.

The greater Greer area, which straddles the Greenville-Spartanburg county line, has a "good balance" of industry, he said, with advanced materials and aerospace well represented in addition to automotive suppliers in the area that serve BMW.

BMW is Greer's top employer by far with 11,000 workers on site, according to the Greer Development Corp. Other major employers include Benore Logistics with 800 employees, Mitsubishi Polyester Film with 600, Honeywell with 320 and Yorker Packaging/Jarden Plastic Solutions with 300.

Deaton gave full credit to Greer leaders decades ago who had the foresight to establish hearty sewer and road infrastructure along the highway.

Mark Harvey, Greer CPW's engineering and planning manager, said in a statement that the pump station needed to be repaired "to ensure reliable and top-quality sewer utilities for BMW and the surrounding communities."

Greer CPW had already secured $2.2 million for the sewer project, $500,000 of that from a South Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority grant awarded a year ago.

The final $2 million announced this week came from the federal Economic Development Administration (EDA), which announced last week that Greer would receive the money. The mission of the EDA, which has awarded about 30 similar public works grants across the country so far this year, is to assist local governments with infrastructure projects that promote economic development.
GREENVILLE  South Carolina's latest employment numbers came out May 21 and, though mixed, could explain all the "help wanted" signs in the Greenville area.

In a monthly survey of households, the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce found that the number of South Carolinians working is now 2,263,256. This is 4,186 fewer than the previous month's survey but significantly better than the number a year ago at the beginning of the pandemic. In April 2020, working South Carolinians numbered just 2,086,262. The percentage of workers who are seeking but cannot find jobs fell to 5.0 percent in April, down from 5.1 percent in March.

Looked at by region, seasonally adjusted employment showed the biggest declines in the Greenville-Anderson-Mauldin metropolitan statistical area. The greater Greenville area lost 3,200 workers between March and April. The Myrtle Beach area lost 1,000 workers. Every other region in the state of South Carolina gained workers.

Still, the unemployment rate in the greater Greenville MSA was lowest in the state at 3.9 percent. It was 4.3 in March.

Bottom line: Fewer people are working but fewer people are looking for work, too.

Eatery opens at Hartness

Village Kitchen, a new restaurant at the Hartness community along Highway 14, will open to the public on May 27.

The fast-casual eatery is the first food option located within the 444-acre planned urban village. The development is still under significant construction, including additional homes and a luxury hotel.

The dining area is open and bright. Indoor and outdoor seating is available. All food is ordered at the counter and is available to go and brought to the table. The menu centers around flatbreads cooked in the central stone hearth, as well as familiar options with a kick  the chicken and house-made cornmeal waffles with hot honey drizzle, for example. The bar menu includes beer, wine, canned cocktails and juices.

Ultimately the restaurant will source some of its ingredients from planned farm plots at Hartness and many are already locally-sourced. The kitchen is led by executive chef Tanner Marino.

Village Kitchen will be open Tuesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. There is a breakfast menu served until 11 a.m. in addition to an all-day menu.

On the move

The agency charged with promoting tourism in Greenville County, VisitGreenvilleSC, announced the selection of its new president. Reporter Eric Connor wrote for The Post and Courier that Sheryl Lang will start her new job on June 2.

She replaces Chris Stone, the longtime tourism chief who stepped down at the end of December.

Quick hits

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Lake Homes Realty, a multistate brokerage firm, has released its latest lake real-estate market report, which includes data from 33 homes (including South Carolina). The report found lake real estate increased $6 billion since the firm's spring report. The market is hot right now, the report's authors wrote, but the three- to seven-year outlook is less certain. Long story short: now is a good time to sell but only buy if you plan to stay put for at least five to 10 years. The pandemic created three new types of home buyers, the report found: those not wanting to wait to buy their dream home; those looking for a remote second-home location from which to live and work; and those selling their urban/suburban homes for good to live and work in a remote location. Finally, South Carolina's $1.4 billion lake real-estate market is led by Lake Wylie (valued at $572 million) up near Charlotte, but Keowee ($236 million) and Hartwell ($177 million) are right behind. Keowee also takes the crown for most expensive home listings at an average of $1.1 million.

Online travel site "Big 7 Travel" has released a list of the top 25 rooftop bars in the United States, and a Greenville staple made the list. Coming in at No. 18 was UP on the Roof at 250 Riverplace in Greenville, earning the spot for its panoramic views of the Reedy River, the Blue Ridge Mountains and the downtown Greenville skyline. The bar has special events planned on June 19-20 for Father's Day and on Tuesday nights in June to mark Pride Month.

The rundown

Here are some of the bigger Post and Courier business headlines from across the state over the past week.

Started in SC, Duke Energys empire comes under siege. Business Editor John McDermott brought us this analysis of the possible deal to break up Duke Energy.

Carolina Panthers training camp will return to Spartanburg's Wofford College after a pause in 2020 due to COVID-19.

A former Westinghouse official is pleading guilty in the multi-year criminal investigation of South Carolinas $9 billion nuclear fiasco.

Straight from the release

An Atlanta-based national boutique recruiting service called ExecuSource has moved into offices at the Endeavor coworking space in the ONE tower on Main Street in downtown Greenville, according to a release from Endeavor on May 25.

ExecuSource, founded in Atlanta in 1998, specializes in recruiting talent in finance, accounting, IT, HR, sales, marketing and manufacturing operations for corporate clients on a permanent, temporary or temp-to-hire basis. Its Greenville office is one of the companys six locations, in addition to Denver, Dallas, Miami and two locations in Atlanta, where the firm is headquartered.

The ExecuSource team includes vice president and search consultant Mike Wofford; recruiting and talent consultants Kevin Jenko, Lakyn Stratton, Dane Barrick and Justin Durham; and director of business development Ashley Brown.

7-figure home sales

Sales of luxury homes in the Upstate were brisk this past week with 10 surpassing the $1 million mark. This list covers all home sales since May 18 in Anderson, Oconee, Pickens, Spartanburg and Greenville counties. They include a seven-bedroom property near downtown Greenville and a horse farm in Travelers Rest, and six of the 10 were on Lake Keowee in Oconee and Pickens counties.

Back for more next week. Email your tips, releases and newsy bits to rgilchrest@postandcourier.com and amitchell@postandcourier.com.
This story was supported by the Pulitzer Center.

BAROBE  In 2000, North Carolina historian Thomas Parramore published the rare scholarly reference naming Omar's home village.

Omar was from a place called Barobe in Senegal, Parramore wrote in Muslim Slave Aristocrats in North Carolina, published in The North Carolina Historical Review.

Elders in the village claimed they knew of an Omar who was expelled from Futa Toro on more than one occasion, several generations before. The cause, they told an interviewer, was said to be his difficulties with the countrys rulers. From his last exile into Gambia, he was said not to have returned, Parramore wrote.

+26 A quest for the true identity of Omar ibn Said, a Muslim man enslaved in the Carolinas Omar ibn Said was captured in Senegal at 37 and enslaved in Charleston. A devout Muslim, he later converted to the Christian faith of his enslavers. Or did he?

A Senegalese official, acting on Parramore's behalf, sent an investigator to Barobe in the 1970s. The official later played Parramore the investigator's recording of men there talking about an Omar. Its unclear why they chose Barobe or who connected an Omar who once lived there with Omar ibn Said who had died enslaved in North Carolina.

The name Omar ibn Said means Omar, the son of Said, a common first name. The term also can be used merely a respectful title, particularly for a religious man. Omar gave no last name.

The reference to Barobe sat out there for decades, long after Parramores death in 2004.

So, when two Post and Courier journalists traveled to Futa Toro, they stopped in Barobe. There, they met with the imam and several other men from the village. It soon became clear that the men had not read Omar's own account of his life.

Mamadou Kebe sat beside the imam. He recalled his grandfather, once head of the village, telling him about visitors who came to Barobe long ago at the behest of Senegalese officials.

They said the person who disappeared from this village was the Omar that the Americans were interested in and looking for, Kebe recalled.

People in Barobe knew the story of a local man named Omar  Omar Said Kebe  who had vanished from the area long ago.

Kebe, who said he is a descendant of Omars half-brother, rattled off the lineage his parents shared with him: Kebe's father is Abu. Abus father was Moctar. Moctars father was Samba. And Sambas brother was Omar.

+4 How we did the Omar ibn Said project For two weeks, countless Senegalese opened their homes and villages, offering insight to two Post and Courier journalists and their team who showed up asking about a long-ago man most had never heard of.

The names matched Parramores notes about the recording he'd hear. But the lineage spans only four generations to cover 250 years since Omar ibn Saids birth.

The men also said that Omars mother was named Umahani, the same first name Omar ibn Said wrote in prayers for his mother. But it is a common name, and the men in Barobe gave a different last name from the one Omar wrote for his mother.

Kebe also shared two stories told about Omar.

As Kebes grandfather relayed one of the stories to him, Omar was a savant, the most knowledgeable man in town, when floodwaters threatened to destroy Barobe.

Omar told them, I can do something.

But if he stopped the water, he would vanish forever. Which he did, a sacrifice for Barobes survival.

This is the most popular version of the story in this town, Kebe said.

+3 Enslaved African Muslims often overlooked by history Upward of one in five enslaved Africans arrived in America as a Muslim. But that story has gone little told.

The other story says that Omars mother lived in a city important to Abdul Kader Kane, then the leader of Futa. Omar was in the city when Kane, planning to attack another kingdom, sent two spies ahead of him. One was Omar.

When the spies returned, they weren't honest about what they had seen. Kane attacked the kingdom and wound up captured himself. Upon his release, the spies were rounded up and sold by the governor of Saint-Louis, Kebe said.

Indeed, Kane was captured when he attacked a kingdom called Cayor. But Kebe said it happened in 1815, which would be too late. Kane was dead by then.

In fact, Kane was captured in Cayor around 1796 and released. He then was killed elsewhere in 1807, according to various historians of West Africa.

And why hadnt this story of Omar rubbing shoulders with Futas renowned leader come to light over two centuries of shared oral history?

That knowledge, I got it recently, Kebe said. He described doing research among the towns elders and online.

Neither story sounded anything like what Omar wrote about his own life.

When the journalists handed the men Omar's own texts, the men asked to keep them so they could deepen their knowledge.

When it is not written, it can get lost," the imam said.
This story was supported by the Pulitzer Center.

Its hard to quantify how much time Post and Courier reporter Jennifer Berry Hawes and photographer Gavin McIntyre spent working on this journey to find Omar ibn Said.

+26 A quest for the true identity of Omar ibn Said, a Muslim man enslaved in the Carolinas Omar ibn Said was captured in Senegal at 37 and enslaved in Charleston. A devout Muslim, he later converted to the Christian faith of his enslavers. Or did he?

On March 11, 2020, they had just gotten off a flight from Charleston to Atlanta, prepared to board their overnight connection to Paris and then Senegal, when then-President Donald Trump announced a ban on travelers entering the U.S. from Europe.

A pandemic gripped the world.

With chaos erupting, the journalists abandoned the trip. Spoleto Festival USA postponed its "Omar" opera, which had been set to debut in Charleston last summer. The newspapers project sat on hold.

Then, in February, McIntyre and Hawes again boarded an airplane amid coronavirus fears, this time with people wearing face masks.

During their reporting in Senegal, supported by a generous grant from Pulitzer Center, they convened an invaluable crew: linguistics professor Mamarame Seck, Arabic teacher and translator Abdoulaye Gueye, drivers Youssou Badji and Serigne Ndiaye, and French graduate student Amandine Situ Bocco.

For two weeks, countless Senegalese opened their homes and villages, offering insight to these strangers who showed up asking about a long-ago man most had never heard of.

Back home, the journalists spent months scouring archives, libraries and museums across South Carolina and North Carolina searching for clues about Omar and the times he lived in. They did the same in Senegals capital city of Dakar, its port city of Saint-Louis and Podor in Futa Toro.

For translations of Omar's writings, they relied on Gueye, Ayla Amon, Ala Alryyes, John Hunwick and imams and historians around the region.

The journalists interviewed dozens of experts in the U.S., Europe and Africa.

Chief among them was Amon, curatorial assistant at the Smithsonians National Museum of African American History and Culture. Her forthcoming book will bring Omars 15 known surviving texts into one place and translate them all into English.

The journalists also relied on Mbaye Lo, a Duke University professor with roots in Futa who also is writing a book about Omars words. With Professor Carl Ernst, he is exploring religious and poetic texts that Omar drew from when he wrote.

Two published books with important context about Omar's life and writings proved invaluable: Alryyes' book "A Muslim American Slave: The Life of Omar Ibn Said" and Sylviane Diouf's "Servants of Allah: African Muslims Enslaved in the Americas."

A box of the late North Carolina historian Thomas Parramore's research also was helpful.

Meanwhile, as the journalists traveled around Futa, they left copies of Omar's writings with people they met. Imams and historians there now are deciphering his words and meaning.

Stay tuned for more about what they discover.
Summerville, SC (29483)

Today

Partly cloudy this morning with thunderstorms becoming likely this afternoon. High 88F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low 71F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
Kingstree, SC (29556)

Today

Cloudy early, then thunderstorms developing 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 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
Omar ibn Said blasted his Charleston enslaver as a "puny, weak, wicked little man," one so abusive that Omar risked his life to flee.

He identified the man only as "Johnson." No first name, no plantation name, no other clues except a reference to hard labor.

Based on the timeline of events Omar wrote in his autobiography, he likely fled Johnson in 1810 or 1811.

So when The Post and Courier began researching Omar, Malcolm Hale, a librarian in the Charleston County Main Library's South Carolina History Room, browsed the 1810 Federal Census. He searched for enslavers named Johnson who lived in the Lowcountry then.

+26 A quest for the true identity of Omar ibn Said, a Muslim man enslaved in the Carolinas Omar ibn Said was captured in Senegal at 37 and enslaved in Charleston. A devout Muslim, he later converted to the Christian faith of his enslavers. Or did he?

He found a handful of them living along the coast who enslaved more than 20 people at the time, indicating they likely ran plantations  perhaps the hard labor Omar mentioned. The region was notorious for its rice operations, where enslaved people toiled in mosquito-infested swamps without relief from the brutal heat and sun.

But none of those enslavers placed runaway notices in surviving local newspapers that fit Omar's description around the time he escaped.

What if Omar misspelled the name a bit? Because a runaway notice placed in February 1810 yields an intriguing possibility: Archibald S. Johnston, a large slaveowner  and an especially awful one.

Johnston owned 45 slaves in Colleton County, Charleston's neighbor, according to the census.

He also kept a journal on his Roslin plantation that shows many people he enslaved there died young and that he sent some to jail for bad behavior. That likely meant the Workhouse in downtown Charleston where enslavers forced obedience with whips, paddles, cat-o'-nine tails.

Multiple people risked death and torture to escape Johnston.

One was a man named Andrew, about 34 years of age, 5 feet 7 or 8 inches high, who fled in February 1810. Was this Omar?

Steve Tuttle, director of archives management at the S.C. Department of Archives and History, discovers that Archibald Johnston and his wife had a prenuptial contract that listed Andrew among property she had inherited.

It was written in 1807.

That meant Andrew likely was in Charleston being transferred as part of the large estate when Omar was in Senegal getting kidnapped.

Old newspapers yield another possibility.

In June 1810, a runaway notice sought Ben and his wife, Lizzy. Ben was 5 feet 7 or 8 inches, a well made, smart, active fellow, limps a little in his walk, but carries himself very erect, has lost part of his fore finger off the left hand.

The notice says that Ben had been previously enslaved by Dr. Joseph Johnson, a prominent physician who healed on the one hand and served as chairman of the Workhouse on the other.

But at 32, Ben was almost a decade younger than Omar. And Omar never mentioned a wife. He also indicated that he ran away from Johnson, not a subsequent owner.

Ayla Amon is a curatorial assistant at the Smithsonians National Museum of African American History and Culture. While researching her upcoming book about Omar's writings, she spotted a clue in former North Carolina Gov. John Owen's family papers.

The Owens had purchased an enslaved person in September 1810, three months after Ben escaped. Given Omar wrote that he was on the run for a month before getting recaptured, the timing could fit, although not perfectly.

A search of surviving historical newspapers shows no enslavers named Johnson or Johnston placing runaway notices in 1811 for a person matching Omar's description.

The mystery of Johnson continues.
BEIJING, May 27 -- Some recent actions taken by Japan, in total disregard of the basic norms governing international relations, has grossly interfered in Chinas internal affairs, deliberately hyped up the so-called Chinas military threat, and groundlessly accused Chinas legitimate maritime activities. China firmly opposes that and has lodged stern representation with the Japanese side, said Senior Colonel Tan Kefei, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of National Defense, at a regular press conference in Beijing on May 27.

It is reported that the draft Japanese Defense White Paper 2021 will include for the first time the content that a stable Taiwan situation is of great importance to Japans security and the stability of the international community, claiming that Chinas military movements have raised great concerns. The Japanese white paper also accused China Coast Guards vessels activities around the Diaoyu Islands of "violating international law".

In response, Tan said, Taiwan question is purely Chinas internal affair that allows no foreign interference. On this issue, what the Japanese side should do most is to bear in mind the dire miseries brought by its war of aggression against China to the Chinese people, including Taiwan compatriots, and to correctly review and deeply reflect on the history of aggression by Japanese militarism.

Tan said that China urges the Japanese side to learn from history, look into the future, be cautious in words and deeds and know where it stands on issues concerning Chinas national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and work with China to push bilateral relations forward in the right direction.

Tan also point out that the Diaoyu Island and its affiliated islands are inherent territory of China. This is a fact solidly backed by historical records and legal documents. The Diaoyu Islands were illegally occupied by the Japanese imperialist in 1895 during the Sino-Japanese War of 1894-1895. After the end of WWII in 1945, sovereignty over the Diaoyu Islands was returned to China in accordance with the international legal documents, including the Cairo Declaration in 1943 and the Potsdam Proclamation in 1945. Therefore, the China Coast Guards vessels have full right to carry out patrol and law enforcement in waters off the Diaoyu Islands as a legitimate way of exercising national sovereignty.

International law is a just instrument that serves the whole world. It will not be tilted or distorted by any single countrys reckless and irresponsible talks for self-interests. Japans false accusation of Chinas activities as violating the international law exactly reveals its blatant contempt for the law. Those who hold this view should take another close look at the Cairo Declaration and Potsdam Proclamation. China will continue to resolutely safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and firmly defend the outcome of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War and the international order based on international law, Tan added.
( ) said a soil survey will start next week on the Dotted Lake property in Ontario, Canada.

Panther has contracted Fladgate Exploration Consulting Corp to conduct a soil geochemistry sampling programme over a 1.60km by 0.85km target area coinciding with the Dotted Lake exploration permit area.

The survey has been designed to build out and in-fill the westerly strike extensions of high-grade gold mineralisation intersected by historical trenching undertaken by a previous licence holder in 2010.

The soil survey which is due to start next week will seek to delineate strike extensions to the high-grade gold mineralisation intersected by historical trenching and will provide surface coverage to prospective structures delineated by Panther's airborne geophysics survey conducted late last year, said chief executive Darren Hazelwood.
CHARLESTON  Holiday weekends come with holiday traffic. That means police will be increasing their enforcement efforts across South Carolina to minimize traffic deaths during Memorial Day weekend.

State troopers will be focusing on interstate highways, which will be heavily trafficked, Lt. William Rhyne, a highway patrol spokesperson, said.

Troopers will also be stationed near the coast because people are traveling to the beach for Memorial Day, he said.

Every trooper in South Carolina will be working at some point throughout the holiday weekend, Rhyne said.

There have been 364 fatal car crashes in 2021 in South Carolina that have led to 394 deaths. That's 63 more deaths than at this point last year, according to the Department of Public Safety.

Rhyne said it would be important for drivers to plan for traffic while traveling and to be alert to safety precautions.

We have had a lot of drivers out there that have lost their lives this year because they did not wear their seatbelt, Rhyne said.

Within this years fatal car crashes, 129 of the 274 people who had access to seatbelts were not wearing them, according to DPS.

During the weekend of May 21-23, there was one fatal car crash in South Carolina, said Rachel Urconis, a spokeswoman for DPS. There were nine fatal crashes on the weekend of May 14-16, Urconis wrote.

On May 26, there was a fatal crash in Dorchester County on Wescott Boulevard, according to the highway patrol.
Administrative challenges to the sprawling Long Savannah development have been dropped, and the builders and three environmental groups who opposed them seem to be headed toward a resolution.

Long Savannah is a yearslong effort to place a mix of homes, businesses and conserved land at the edge of the city of Charleston in West Ashley. It comprises 3,000 acres with rights to construct 4,500 homes, and was originally held up as a "green" development, in part because roughly half the acreage is parkland.

Last year, state regulators at the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control approved a permit that would have let developers destroy 200 acres of wetlands in the process. That was the permit that three groups, represented by two environmental law firms, had challenged.

The groups said then that developers needed to make more of an effort to avoid these sensitive areas, which provide valuable wildlife habitat and help soak up floodwaters. Opponents also pointed out the flooding problems that already exist in the area, which is drained by narrow Church Creek.

But now, challenges to the permits in the state's Administrative Law Court, which reviews the decisions of state agencies, have been withdrawn, and a settlement is under discussion, said Mary Shahid, an attorney for the developers.

Early details were not available.

"Were working with everybody on a settlement, but its not finalized yet, and we want to present it as a group, not individually," Shahid said.

Lorraine Chow, a spokeswoman for the South Carolina Environmental Law Project, said in an email, "the parties are continuing to work towards a resolution." SCELP is representing two of the challengers, Sierra Club and the South Carolina Wildlife Federation.

Catherine Wannamaker, an attorney with the Southern Environmental Law Center, said it's likely the settlement would end not only challenges to state-approved permits, but also to a still-pending permit application to the Army Corps of Engineers. The Corps manages a federal wetland protection program. SELC is representing Charleston Waterkeeper, the last group challenging the development.

It's unclear exactly when a final agreement will be struck, but the case had been scheduled for trial in the ALC next week, before it was withdrawn.
A South Carolina prison inmate at the heart of a scheme to extort members of the military by impersonating underage girls on dating websites has been sentenced to 5 years in federal prison for money laundering.

While serving a 12-year state prison sentence for attempted armed robbery, Wendell Wilkins used a smuggled smartphone to join internet dating sites.

The 32-year-old Spartanburg man posed as a young women and targeted military members by sending nude photographs of women he found online to the servicemen while requesting nude photographs and other personal information in return.

When they complied, Wilkins or other inmates would pose as the father of the young woman and claim the military members were communicating with someone who was underage. Wilkins and others threatened to have the military members arrested or dishonorably discharged unless they paid money.

Wilkins collected at least $74,000 in extorted funds traced to a minimum of 25 military victims between February 2016 and January 2018, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Wilkins was one of five inmates and 10 other people implicated in what authorities described as a sextortion ring.

In 2019, Jimmy Dunbar Jr. was sentenced to over 3 years in federal prison for his role in the fraud. His federal sentence will be served after finishing a 30-year sentence for murder, kidnapping, armed robbery and arson at Lee Correctional Facility.

Antwine Lamar Matthews was sentenced in September to almost six years in federal prison. Rakeem Spivey and David Paul Dempsey each were sentenced to one year and three months in federal prison, according to court records.

Wilkins was the ringleader of the group, according to authorities.

The U.S. Department of Defense has warned military members they are common targets for sextortion scams because of their steady income and the expectation they will be held to a higher standard of conduct.

More than 300 military members throughout the country have been similarly extorted, losing over $350,000. Several military members have committed suicide after falling victim to the scheme.

South Carolina officials blame smartphones in prison for contributing to the widespread fraud.

Acting U.S. Attorney M. Rhett DeHart said inmates use the devices to continue committing crimes behind bars.

We hope this prosecution helps state officials eliminate and disable contraband phones in prison, DeHart said.

Bryan Stirling, director of the S.C. Department of Corrections, said states needed the ability to jam cell phone signals inside prisons, referring to micro-jamming devices, which allow correctional officials to jam specific areas in a prison, such as an inmate housing unit.

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration and Federal Bureau of Prisons did a pilot test of micro-jamming technology at a state prison in Columbia in 2019. The test was promising, with Bureau of Prison officials reporting that signals inside a housing unit were blocked, while legitimate calls could be made one foot outside the housing unit perimeter.

However, only authorized federal law enforcement officials can signal jam, or interfere with cellular communications, according to the Federal Communications Commission.

In 2019, U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas and U.S. Rep. David Kustoff of Tennessee introduced companion bills in both chambers that would give state prison officials the power to jam cellphone signals. Neither bill passed.

Stirling said he believed Cotton would reintroduce the bill soon.

Stirling, chairman of the Contraband Cellphone Committee for the Correctional Leaders Association, said all types of crimes are being committed in state and federal prisons using cell phones. Inmates order hits and sell drugs while behind bars.

Chrysti Shain, director of communications for South Carolina's Department of Corrections, said a contraband cell phone currently sells for $3,000 in prison, nearly double the price it sold for before the pandemic.

"It is a significant amount of money," Stirling said. "But they are making significant amounts of money by doing this  dealing drugs and extorting money."

Wilkins will serve his federal prison sentence after completing his 12-year state prison sentence. The federal sentence will be followed by three years of supervised release.
'I Am Omar' A quest for the true identity of Omar ibn Said, a Muslim man enslaved in the Carolinas

This story was supported by the Pulitzer Center.

DAKAR  Dust rolling in from the Sahara Desert cloaks the horizon, shrouding the clay structures ahead and disorienting the band of strangers as they approach. Yet they come to this ancient village in search of clarity.

Imam Amadou Baidy Sy, among the most learned men in the area, welcomes the unexpected guests into his home. Gathering around him on colorful mats and tapestries, they clutch two Arabic texts, each laden with a trans-Atlantic mystery.

The documents contain words written two centuries ago by a man captured somewhere out here in the sand-swept expanse of northern Senegal. The visitors, who include two Post and Courier journalists, explain the importance of the author.

Draped in folds of royal purple, Sy leans over to grasp the packet.

He has never heard of this Omar ibn Said.

Thats not surprising. Omar wrote his most historically important text, a brief autobiography, 190 years ago, and it spent much of the last century forgotten in an old trunk in Virginia.

When he wrote it, Omar was 61 and more than two decades into a long enslavement in America, first in Charleston and then North Carolina. He lacked the freedom for candor, though hed become a minor celebrity for his exotic script and born-again zeal for Jesus.

Or so they said.

Despite memorizing the Quran during his youth here in this region called Futa Toro, Omar apologized when he wrote. He had forgotten much of his peoples script and hoped they wouldnt laugh at him should they somehow, miraculously, ever read it.

Now, the imam holds those words in his hands.

Perched on a high-back wooden chair, Sy flips quickly through the pages, scanning them. At the last one, he pauses. From a 171-year-old photograph, Omar stares out wearing a headwrap and a gaze of wisdom.

Sy smiles back.

Then he returns to the start of Omars story. The room falls silent as he reads, save the sounds of tea pouring and children giggling and songbirds chattering as they fly in and out of his home.

Sy is among the first people living in Futa Toro to read Omars autobiography in full. He can understand Omars meaning in a way only someone who lives here can.

Omar wrote that he was 37 years old when infidels attacked his village. They slaughtered many people and dragged him away to a slave ship that hauled him across the Atlantic Ocean. The ship landed in Charleston, the nations busiest slave port.

During the 56 years of captivity that followed, Omar wrote at least 15 surviving texts in Arabic, although nobody around him could read them. They include letters, Muslim and Christian verses, and the only known surviving autobiography written in Arabic by someone still enslaved in America.

Given that perhaps one in five African captives brought to the U.S. was Muslim, the rarity of such texts speaks to a great loss of faith and learning.

+3 Enslaved African Muslims often overlooked by history Upward of one in five enslaved Africans arrived in America as a Muslim. But that story has gone little told.

Even today, despite its historical significance, relatively few Americans have read Omars autobiography. The Library of Congress bought it in 2017, digitized its pages and shared it with the world.

Omars story sprang from obscurity.

Spoleto Festival USA, an international arts event held each year in Charleston, then commissioned Grammy Award-winning music star Rhiannon Giddens to write an opera about his life. With a nearly all-Black cast, it will premiere at the 2022 festival amid the countrys reckoning with race and the vestiges of slavery. Several scholarly books about Omar also are in the works. And Charleston artist Jonathan Green created a coloring book about him.

They all seek to answer the most basic question: Who was Omar, really? For two centuries, his story has morphed based on who was telling it. And why.

That question drove the group of guests sitting with Sy, in his village called Dimat Walo, to embark on this quest. If few Americans have read Omars words, even fewer Senegalese have  and fewer here in Futa Toro.

Seated around the imam are the two journalists from South Carolina, a professor of linguistics from the Senegalese capital, his French graduate assistant, two Senegalese drivers, and an Arabic teacher who hails from Futa and descends from one of its great intellectuals.

Given Omar was enslaved when he wrote, he wasnt free to reveal his deepest self, his true faith or wishes. This team embarked on a quest to better understand him  and to bring his writings home.

But where exactly that home was remains a great part of Omars mystery.

He mostly wrote religious passages, not personal details, although twice he wrote what looks like a specific place name. Knowing where the place is could reveal much about him: his home, his family, his people, where he was captured and from which Senegalese port a slave ship took him.

Omar likely spoke Pulaar, which Sy also speaks. But he wrote in Arabic, an alphabet lacking letters for some sounds in Pulaar. Writers like him improvised, such as using the b to represent a p sound. Omar also sometimes wasnt clear about vowels.

He wrote the place name in an 1819 letter imploring, I wish to be seen in our land called Africa, in a place on the river called 

Scholars have surmised the next word might be read as Kaba or Kabya, perhaps even Gambia, as in the Gambia River, none of which are places in Futa Toro.

Sy has no trouble reading it.

Fi makan al bahri yusumma Coppe.

He shows it to his nephew sitting nearby.

Coppe, his nephew agrees.

Abdoulaye Gueye, the Arabic teacher, looks surprised. This is a revelation, eh?

Mamarame Seck, the professor, agrees. That is a big, new revelation!

Sy reads what appears to be the same place name in Omars autobiography. They took me to Coppe by the river, and they sold me to the White people.

Coppe is in Futa Toro, he adds, right on the Senegal River.

Its not far. He will help us get there.



The closing door

Its hard to grasp why slave traders would buy a smallish man pushing 40, already older than the average life expectancy at the time, and think hed draw a decent price at an American auction.

Unless you understand their desperation.

By 1807, South Carolina planters had pushed their luck. Due to their gluttony for slaves, Congress had passed a law that would ban the importing of new African captives. At years end, the door would slam shut.

That launched a frenzied race to fill the final slave voyages. Ships lined up along West Africas coast. Among the key ports was Saint-Louis at the mouth of the Senegal River, a liquid highway for commerce, including gold and slaves. That put villages like Omars at particular risk. Futa Toro hugs the Senegal River for 250 miles, and raiders often plundered its banks.

Omar was born there at a time of upheaval.

Islamic revolutions spread across the region, led by religious men determined to stop the instability and violence that the slave trade was sowing. Given that Islams laws forbid one Muslim from enslaving another, it held strong appeal.

Around 1776, Futas new leader banned the practice.

Omar and his 10 siblings lost their father then, likely killed in the fighting. About 6 years old, Omar was just starting his Quranic education with other little boys in Futa. The regions hot air filled with their chanting until the entire book rooted deeply into their memories  should they ever find themselves without a copy.

Omar proved a skilled student. As he grew up, he traveled to religious schools in Futa, then left on a quest for the mystical secrets of Sufi Islam. A master had to receive and initiate him, said Gueye, the Arabic teacher, whose grandfather embarked on a similar journey.

The learner must be not only intellectually mature but also of impeccable moral integrity, Gueye said. In time, Omar received the Ilm al-Asrar, or knowledge of secrets, learning to construct amulets and talismans that could seek from Allah blessings of health, good fortune and protection from others.

At 31, Omar returned to his village. For six years, he lived with his fellow Muslim faithful, heeding the call to prayer five times a day and giving alms of sheep, rice and gold.

Then, three key events took place.

On March 2, 1807, President Thomas Jefferson signed the law banning slave importation.

The next month, Futas leader was murdered.

And that year, infidels attacked Omars village.

The din of Babel

The fabric of Charleston, of any place really, gets conveyed on the coarse wood pulp of the days newspaper pages.

In 1807, the citys news filled, as usual, with ads touting Prime Negroes for sale in batches large and small. Runaway slave notices ran alongside ads for Black wet nurses, the latest theater shows, fine silver, horse saddles, and merchants hocking brandy and rum.

A feature called Ship News announced the day's vessels. And their cargo.

Those ships docked in a city teeming with White merchants and the enslaved laborers who comprised its majority. Carriage horses plodded along narrow lanes past fine antebellum homes and shops. Church steeples sprouted all around the thin peninsula, which was laced with wharves.

Omar didnt write details about the Middle Passage he endured. But others described their journeys.

A man named Olaudah Equiano, captured in Nigeria as a boy, later recounted his first moments aboard a slave vessel.

When I looked round the ship too and saw a large furnace of copper boiling, and a multitude of black people of every description chained together, every one of their countenances expressing dejection and sorrow, I no longer doubted of my fate and quite overpowered with horror and anguish, I fell motionless on the deck and fainted.

Crewmen branded and shackled the captives, then stuffed them into the hull. As days and weeks at sea passed, people lay in each others waste. Disease flourished. Nothing deterred sexual predators among the crew.

The shrieks of the women, and the groans of the dying, rendered the whole a scene of horror almost inconceivable, Equiano wrote.

A surgeon who worked aboard slave ships described similar conditions. The average mortality he witnessed reached 15 to 20 percent. In Charleston, so many bodies washed ashore that the city passed a rule against dumping them in the water.

Into this world, a ship carrying Omar lumbered up the glittering currents of the Cooper River. It steered toward Gadsdens Wharf, already crowded with slave vessels.

Around that time, with the new years arrival, the Charleston Courier published a notice: The importation of Slaves from Africa, ceases this day, according to act of Congress.

It listed the total captives sold in town by year.

In 1804, the number was 5,386.

By 1807, it soared to 15,676.

In all, arrivals averaged about 10,000 a year, or roughly half of the entire population of Charleston at the time, itself one of Americas largest cities.

Others put the number much higher.

Omar didnt write the ships name that carried him or precisely when it arrived. But he did provide two critical clues that help pinpoint a few possibilities. Given he was in Futa Toro, he likely was taken from the Senegal River. And he wrote that he spent a month and a half at sea, or about 45 days.

Slave traders kept almost no records of captives names or family ties. But international researchers have been piecing together the scant clues that survive to build a database called Slave Voyages.

A search of it shows three possibilities in 1807. The last one to arrive, the Carolina, slipped in just nine days before the deadline. It had spent 42 days at sea, then landed with 130 captives on board  two dozen fewer than it took from the Senegal River.

The ship docked at Gadsdens Wharf a few days before Christmas, then began advertising sales of its cargo starting Jan. 11. That day, nine ships advertised loads of enslaved Africans for sale at the wharf, crammed with thousands of captives.

A British visitor described the scene: The din raised by slaves, sailors, sellers, and buyers was akin to the Old Testament Babel.

Omar stood before the probing eyes of potential buyers.

In a Christian language, he wrote, they sold me.

Flight for freedom

As he stepped off the ship, inhaling the humid air of this new world, Omar surely was naked and chained. He carried only the Quran stored in his minds eye.

"Then a puny, weak, wicked little man named Johnson bought me. He was a big disbeliever and did not fear Allah at all," Omar wrote, as Gueye translated it.

Omar didnt include Johnsons first name or describe the plantation he owned. But coastal South Carolina was notorious for its rice operations, where enslaved laborers often died young.

About four years after disembarking in Charleston, Omar fled. Given the risks, most people who attempted escape were men in their 20s. But fear drove him.

I was afraid to stay with such a wicked little man who committed a lot of sins, he wrote. "So, I escaped."

If he fled on foot from the Lowcountry, Omar traversed hundreds of miles of forest and plantation country  not to mention several major rivers  across the states vast Pee Dee region. Or he slipped up the coast, navigating bays, rivers, swamps and the White mans maritime traffic.

He crossed about 220 miles, then approached Fayetteville, N.C. He spotted some structures.

I went in there to pray, he wrote.

Did he enter a vacant house? A church?

Or was it a safe house along a precursor to the Underground Railroad? Quakers lived and worked in the area. And when Omar wrote about this moment later, he didnt describe himself alone, the way he did when he escaped Johnson. Instead, he referred to us.

Whatever the building was he entered, someone kept an eye on it. A young person riding horseback spotted Omar.

More men came with a pack of dogs.

Omars flight for freedom ended. The slave patrol walked him for 12 miles to Fayetteville.

"They put me in a big house," Omar wrote. "I couldn't get out. So I stayed in the big house, called jail in the language of Christians, for 16 days and one night."

What happened in that jail would launch the myth-making of Omars life.



No more hiding

In the Deep South, captured runaways got thrown into the local jail, then waited for their enslavers to arrive and dole out whatever punishment they chose.

It might take time for Johnson to come.

But there was no more hiding.

News of runaways and captures seeped into every pocket of the White mans world. It filled newspaper pages. Broadsheets hung at ports. Steamboat captains carried word up and down the waterways.

And Fayetteville was a major stop on the Cape Fear River, busy with commerce and travel.

There, in the Cumberland County jail, Omar waited.

He sat in a cell, its floor blanketed in soot and slivers of charcoal from a fire. Grasping a chunk, he plied the prayers woven into his memory. Across the cell walls, Omar wrote them, wrapping himself in pleas for Allahs protection.

Or so the story went. Nobody there could read Arabic.

Omar was more educated than most White people around him. Although they used a narrative of the uncivilized African to justify slavery, barely a third of Whites in North Carolina were literate at the time.

As White writers later told the story, Omars exotic script captured the towns attention. Up and down the river, people heard about this Black man at the jail who could write a litany of foreign symbols, explicable to no one.

But attention also meant word traveling to Charleston. For 16 days, Omar agonized.

Then the jail door opened.

He wrote, "I saw several men who were all Christians."

Becoming Moro

Johnson wasnt among the crowd standing there. But the local sheriff was, and he had mentioned this intriguing runaway to his new son-in-law, one of the areas wealthiest men.

James Owen was a 27-year-old state legislator and planter, the elder brother of a future governor. The siblings had inherited substantial property, in land and people, when their father died a few years earlier.

They now lived on plantations  Milton and Owen Hill  that straddled the Cape Fear River about 30 miles south in rural Bladen County. To the White world, they were places of antebellum glory.

Owen Hill sat on a bluff overlooking the river. The mens father, Thomas Owen, had cultivated an orchard along an avenue of magnolias that led to the plantation house. Visitors described pear, plum and peach trees blooming in fragrant clouds. Breeze from the river carried the sweet scents to the homes wide veranda.

Out in the plantations fields, however, enslaved people toiled in obscurity. The Owens were among the countys largest slaveholders. In 1810, James Owen alone reported owning 43 people.

After retrieving Omar from the sheriff, Owen took him home to Milton.

Its unclear exactly when the man from Charleston showed up. But a man did come.

When Omar heard the news, he begged: No, no, no, no, no, no, no.

The man who stood before them wasnt Johnson. His name was Mitchell.

And Mitchell claimed he had bought Omar for cheap from his prior owner after Omar fled. An Owen descendant later recalled that the man produced a bill of sale, then played like he didnt want to sell Omar, who was in clear distress.

Apparently, so was James Owen. He saw value in the strange literacy and regal bearing of this man they dubbed Moro.

He offered to trade two white carriage horses.

Mitchell agreed. Then, as he prepared to leave, he feigned uncertainty. A sum of cash would cement his decision.

James considered it extortion. But he threw $1,000 into the deal, according to one of his descendants. The sum normally bought a young, healthy male.

To Omars relief, Mitchell left.

Becoming Uncle Moro

As his life settled into a new rhythm, Omar clung to his Muslim faith.

Praying five times a day and strictly observing Ramadan gave structure and holiness to his life. He preserved a modest Muslim appearance, covering his head and body. And he wrote prayers in Arabic, then tacked them to trees on the plantations, a common practice back home.

Nobody around could read them. White people figured he had written thanks to the Owens and prayers for his refuge at Milton.

In this world, Omar prayed alone.

If any other Muslims worshipped among the enslaved people on the plantations, neither Omar nor the White people around him mentioned them.

He had no imam to offer guidance. Muslim calls to prayer were replaced with hymns and church bells. And instead of people chanting the Quran, James Owen or his wife and daughter read Omar the Bible every day.

As Omar learned to speak broken English, the Owens' family stories describe children slipping onto his knee, eager for tales about Africa and wisdoms about life.

Those children also grew up watching him cover his head each morning. He would attach one end of a cloth to a tree or post, then wrap the other end around his head and turn until his head was covered.

He wasnt just Moro.

He became Uncle Moro.

And Uncle Moro lived in his own little private cabin near the big house, not the slave cabins  an in-between world.

Later, people would describe Omar as everything from a butler to an overseer. One Owen family descendant said he served as majordomo, or head of a household staff. Another wrote that he was waited on by a little colored boy and his food carried to him from the Owen kitchen.

Omar clearly recognized his unique lot.

I continue in the hands of Jim Owen who does not beat me, nor calls me bad names, nor subjects me to hunger, nakedness, or hard work.

The hidden plea

Five years after Omar arrived at Milton, a group of prominent White men who foresaw slaverys eventual end formed the American Colonization Society.

Early members ranged from abolitionists who outright opposed slavery to enslavers fearful of the growing numbers of free Black people. Supporters included slave-owning presidents Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe and James Madison.

Despite different motives, they saw a common solution: relocate emancipated and freeborn Black residents to a new colony in Africa.

Its circuit of prominent adherents would alter Omars life.

Evangelical Christians in the group, including the Owens, saw a potential side benefit to the relocation idea: Black Christian converts could help spread the gospel to Africas unsaved pagans and Mohammedans.

The Owens looked at Uncle Moro. They could start at home.

James Owen had become a leader at Fayettevilles First Presbyterian Church. Clergy from around the country came to visit. And evangelize.

In 1819, with pressure mounting to convert, Omar sat down to write a letter.

In Arabic, he addressed it to James brother, then-state Sen. John Owen, and his church community in Raleigh. Men there were forming a new chapter of the Colonization Society.

Perhaps Omar hoped that John would send the letter through the Societys channels to get it translated. Maybe someone would be sympathetic to his plea.

When he began to write, Omar quoted passages of Muslim texts. Then he drew a large Sufi talisman, a geometrical shape with six interlocking arabesques on each side.

In the middle of the design, he wrote Jim Owen, the name of his enslaver.

He also wrote another name that has confounded translators. Setting peoples names in the center of this type of talisman can aim to bring them together. Or pull them apart.

Omar continued on then, quoting more Muslim passages onto the second page. Halfway down, he drew a small pentacle, a five-point star, used in Sufism to seek protection, said Gueye, the Arabic teacher.

Then, he wrote his plea: I wish to be seen in our land called Africa, in a place on the river 

And then the word Kaba or Kabya.

Or, maybe, Coppe.

It was a bold move. If the Owens learned that he had asked to leave them, he could lose what privileges he enjoyed. Or worse.

He then quoted Surah Al-Mulk, a chapter in the Quran that describes Gods sovereignty over creation. Omar ended the page with its phrase: Speak secretly or openly; God knows what is in your hearts.

Breaking the code

Nobody around Omar could read his letter.

But they wanted to.

Upon receiving it, John Owen promptly gave it to John Louis Taylor, a friend from Fayetteville and chief justice of the state Supreme Court.

Taylor, who was active in the Colonization Society, in turn forwarded it to a far more influential member: Francis Scott Key, lawyer and poet who had written the words of The Star-Spangled Banner.

Taylor explained his purpose, using a new take on Moro's name. The man, whose adopted name is Moreau, is believed to have been powerfully connected in his own country, and to have received a very uncommon education.

Moreau, he added, didnt want to go back to Africa. He so appreciated his enslavers great unbounded confidence and indulgence that he couldnt leave them. Despite the plea Omar tucked in the letter, Taylor declared: He is unwilling to return to his native country.

If they could read the mans script, they would know more.

Many persons were desirous of procuring a translation of the inclosed (sic) letter, which I hope to obtain by your assistance.

Taylor also asked for another favor.

They needed to get an Arabic Bible for Moreau. With it, they could prove to him the Christian Scriptures clear authenticity and divine origin.

Yes, books were expensive. Finding this one would be difficult. But if Moreau could read the Bible for himself, hed have no excuse for clinging to his Muslim faith.

Allah in the Bible

One day, a leather-bound Bible arrived at the plantation. It was 11 inches tall, the size of the old timey Bible which used to be on every familys center table, an Owen descendant recalled.

Omar held the heavy book, which topped 400 pages. When he opened its cover, he set eyes upon the first Arabic words, besides his own, that he had seen in 13 years.

In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth ...

It wasnt the Quran. But the essence of worshipping an omnipotent God felt familiar, the message not unlike the opening of Islams holy book. Was it comforting to read the Psalms, the Lords Prayer, the stories of Abraham and Moses and Noah and Jesus, all prophets who appear in the Quran?

Joining the Christian church would give Omar a spiritual home  a place to pray and sing and study with other people again.

It also would please the Owens.

Omar made a soft leather bag for the Bible and hung it on a chair when he wasnt reading it.

Later that year, a few weeks before Christmas in 1820, he traveled upriver into town with the Owens to attend the worship service at First Presbyterian Church. He stood before the congregation  Black people in the balcony, White people in the sanctuary pews  as the minister baptized him.

The churchs membership rolls officially recorded him, under People of Colour, as Moroe-Property of Geo. Owen.

Though deemed property, he never considered himself a negro and never mingled with the negro slaves on the two plantations, nor would he sit with the slaves in the church balcony, an Owen descendant later wrote. He had his own chair, which he placed in the aisle.

Omar became a fixture at the church. And a symbol of successful evangelism.

The following year, the Colonization Society secured a patch of land in Africa, the seed of what would become Liberia. Soon, the first free Black people from America landed there.

Becoming 'Prince Moro'

Five years after Omars baptism, in the summer of 1825, a Philadelphia-based publication called the Christian Advocate published an article written by an anonymous Fayetteville doctor.

It was titled Prince Moro.

The editors promised a faithful statement of facts that would give pleasure to our Christian readers."

Those readers learned about an enslaved man whod escaped from a South Carolina rice planter, been captured and then thrown into jail. There, he displayed writing in a masterly hand.

It would seem that he was a prince in his own country, which must have been far in the interior of Africa  perhaps Timbuctoo or its neighbourhood.

Never mind that Timbuktu, a city in present-day Mali, is about 700 miles away from Futa Toro.

The same lore of royalty grew within the Owen family. When they offered Omar the privilege of choosing a wife from among the house slaves, he declined, a descendant wrote. A Fulah Prince could not condescend to marry less than royalty.

Perhaps what Omar really said, or thought, was that he could only marry a Muslim woman, and there were none around him. Although he often penned short prayers for his mother, Omar never wrote about a wife or children back home.

He also never wrote that he was royalty.

But that didnt matter to the White world crafting its own identity for Omar. To them he was now Prince Moro, faithful Christian.

Tale of resistance

In 1831, the Owens gave Omar a blank tablet of paper. They had new ideas for him.

John Owen had become governor of North Carolina at a time when fears of slave insurrections flared across the South.

A Black man named David Walker, who hailed from the state, had written a scathing essay urging enslaved people to revolt. He appealed to Christians in particular, insisting that God Almighty is the sole proprietor or master of the WHOLE human family.

Copies appeared across the South, including in Charleston and Wilmington, N.C.

Gov. Owen sent one to North Carolina lawmakers, warning of insurrections and urging crackdowns. Fears raged.

Not a year later, shortly after Owen left office, Nat Turner led a rebellion 165 miles away in Virginia. Enslaved people killed at least 55, almost all of them White.

Arguments between slave owners and abolitionists intensified. Rumors of planned revolts spread. Amid the increasingly divided politics, Colonization Society members struggled to find traction for their idea of relocating free Blacks to Liberia.

But they did have a new marketing plan.

Members began gathering stories from enslaved people. They wanted to demonstrate that at least some werent savages, that there is something exceptional about this person that makes him worth saving, said Hussein Rashid, a lecturer in religion at Columbia University who studies Muslims in America.

The Owens handed Omar the tablet of paper.

Its unclear if his 1819 letter, with the plea to return to Africa, had been translated yet. But in the 12 years since, Omar had stuck to quoting religious verses.

Now 61 years old, he looked at the tablet of quarto paper, its cream-colored pages blank, and faced expectations to write about his life. Given the broader tensions over slavery, he could not let the Owens get any whiff that he might be open to even the faintest seditious thought.

He must appear as they wanted.

Grateful servant.

Trusted worker.

Faithful Christian.

Yet he began writing what Sylviane Diouf, a prominent historian of enslaved Muslims, would later call a document of resistance.

Dipping a pen into iron gall ink, Omar filled the first page by quoting the familiar lines of Surah Al-Mulk.

In the name of God, the merciful, the compassionate. May God bless our Lord Muhammad:

Blessed be He in whose hand is the mulk (sovereignty) and who has power over all things.

Omar included the surahs promise of a fiery hell for those who tried to usurp Allahs command over all things. The argument sounded a lot like what Walker had written a year earlier in his Appeal  that Christian slave "owners" were acting as if they were lords of men.

Unlike Walker, Omar didnt specifically mention enslavers or insurrection.

But he would be clear about one thing:

He was not Uncle Moro.

Or Prince Moro.

Or Moreau.

I am Omar," he wrote.

And he loved to read the Great Quran.

Yet Omar added that he had tried to open his heart to the Bible because the law was to Moses given, but grace and truth were with Jesus Christ," Gueye translated.

Omar praised Muhammad but also said the Lords Prayer.

Then, he added the basic personal details that give us what little we know about him in his own words. After filling 15 pages, Omar concluded with praise.

"I stayed in the hands of Jim Owen who did not beat me, insult me, deprive me of food or clothing, or force me to do hard labor. I cannot do heavy labor. I am a sick little man. Over the past 20 years, I have never had a problem with Jim Owen."

'The leaning tree'

Omar knew of a fellow enslaved Muslim who performed a similar tightwire act. Lamine Kebe had been a Quranic teacher in modern-day Guinea when he was kidnapped while buying paper for his school.

Now, he was feigning conversion to Christianity and cooperating with the Colonization Society so they would transport him to Liberia. A few years after Omar wrote his autobiography, someone sent it to Kebe in New York. The man was about to board a ship.

What if Kebe had taken the text to Africa, to anywhere even close to Futa Toro?

Instead, he gave it to Theodore Dwight, a White abolitionist and scholar with an interest in West Africa and Islam. Dwight didnt, or couldnt, get it translated until 17 years after Omar wrote it.

A White New Yorker finally wrote a rudimentary translation. Even then, Dwight didnt publish it until the year after Omars death.

Mbaye Lo, a Duke University professor with roots in Senegal, studies Islam in Africa and is co-authoring a book about Omars writings. Given the Owens connections, he feels certain they saw the translation while Omar was alive.

But the family was busy.

A few years after Omar wrote his autobiography, James Owen sold Milton and moved his family downriver to the bustling port city of Wilmington. Fireplaces, chandeliers and gifts from around the world adorned the rooms of their new three-story house on leafy Front Street.

The family often entertained there, with Omar as a centerpiece.

One guest, a prominent doctor and planter, described Omar as a fine looking man, copper colored, though an African in a black coat that reached below his knees. When summoned, Omar announced he would read the 23rd Psalm.

The visitor also asked him to write the verse in Arabic, which he did.

The Owens' new minister, the Rev. Matthew Grier, also recalled seeing Omar recite the 23rd Psalm and how he would never forget the earnestness and fervor which shone in the old mans countenance as he read the going down into the dark valley.

Me no fear, masters with me there, he recalled Omar saying.

The Owens church, First Presbyterian, listed family members who joined after their move, including Morrow, the servant to James Owen, an Indian Prince.

Meanwhile, Gov. Owen continued his political rise. He had just declined an offer to run as the Whig Partys vice presidential candidate when he died of a liver disease.

By then, Omar was 71.

One of the Owens daughters wrote to her little sister at boarding school: As Uncle Moro says, it is not the leaning tree which always falls first.

Twilight of life

Even as Omar aged into his late 80s, he continued his veiled resistance. In 1857, he penned his last known writing.

James Owen gave it to a ministers daughter in Virginia. A note in English attached to it says that Uncle Moreau, a devoted Christian, had written the Lords Prayer in Arabic.

That isnt what Omar wrote.

In fact, he wrote Surah An-Nasr, the last chapter revealed before the prophet Muhammad died. It translates to The Victory and speaks of a great triumph for Islam.

When Gods help and victory come, and you see people embrace Gods faith in multitudes, give glory to your Lord and seek His pardon. He is ever disposed to mercy.

He signed it, My name is Omar."

But he also read his Bible often. Over the years, he fashioned six cloth covers for it, wrapping each new one around the old fabric, worn from use. Ayla Amon, who is writing a book translating all of Omar's writings, noticed that at both the beginning and end of the Bible, he wrote: Praise be to Allah, a common phrase in Muslim discourse.

The Whites around him continued to identify him how they chose.

The 1860 census recorded Omar as a 91-year-old African Prince called Monroe." Not long after, the Civil War exploded when a 10-inch mortar round blasted across Charleston Harbor.

In declining health, and war upon him, James Owen moved back inland to Owen Hill. He brought Omar with him, two old men in the twilight of life.

Omar died there in summer 1863, before the wars end would have freed him. He was 93 years old.

Owen buried him in the family graveyard, then died himself two years later.

Seasons passed. Years passed. The war ended. Reconstruction ended. The plantation house burned down one Sunday morning in 1876.

Today, almost 160 years after Omars death, nothing at Owen Hill speaks to his legacy, or anyone elses. No marker points to the spot.

At the end of a rural side street lined with houses and mobile homes, in a field of thorny vines and trash, only a brick wall remains. It rises about 3 feet from the ground and forms a rectangle roughly 10 feet by 12 feet.

Inside, a spindly tree grows through the heart of patriarch Thomas Owen's grave. An empty Smuckers jelly jar lies in repose. His wife and three young grandchildren are buried here with them, their tombstones somewhere in the jumble of broken parts.

Nothing marks where Omar is buried, though a gravestone once did. Legends blame vandals and thieves for its disappearance.

A few years ago, a handful of men from a Fayetteville mosque named for Omar came to the spot seeking to honor him. They too had become fascinated by the man. They too stood in the brambles, shocked at the neglect.

The Quran had taught them what to do, as it taught Omar. They prayed.

In the name of God, the infinitely compassionate and merciful.

Praise be to God, Lord of all the worlds.

It dawned on the imam, Adam Beyah, as they spoke those words. This surely was the first time that a Muslim verse had seeped through the air and settled on the earth of this place since Omar's final prayer.

Omar as criminal

Like many Black Muslims in America, Beyah came to his faith through the Nation of Islam. He converted as a young man in 1972, back when he knew a lot more about civil rights than the enslaved Africans who brought Islam here.

Beyah, an accountant, moved to Fayetteville and joined the mosque named for Omar. He felt an instant connection to the man and led an effort to place a state historical marker for him  but not one that claimed Omar was Christian, as some wanted.

Through his work, he met another man with a keen interest in Omar: Thomas Parramore, a prominent North Carolina historian.

Parramore had devoted immense effort to learning about Omar and clarifying the myriad rumors that framed him, namely the title of African prince.

He was a White man working in the mid-1970s. The first African American student had just graduated from Meredith College, where he worked. U.S. Sen. Jesse Helms had been elected after mocking civil rights protestors and admonishing negro hoodlums.

In this milieu, Parramore considered Omars reluctance to divulge personal stories, combined with his supposed aversion to returning to Africa, as evidence:

Omar was hiding something.

Parramore wrote that Omar occasionally exhibited what some may have perceived as a strong sense of guilt, suggesting that he may, indeed, have committed such a wrong.

At the time, Parramore was the premier researcher of Omar in North Carolina. Yet, in the 1980s, when he co-authored a state history textbook, he wrote for school children to read: Apparently, Omar was sold into slavery by his own people as punishment for a crime he had committed.

Parramore amplified the idea, but he didnt invent it.

The notion had emerged in 1856 with the Rev. John Leighton Wilson, a South Carolina native and missionary in Africa. In a book about his travels, he wrote that the Fulani people had not participated in the slave trade except a few times to rid themselves of criminals.

There is another still living in Wilmington, North Carolina, by the name of Moro, now eighty-five years of age, he wrote. He has had the opportunity to return to his country, but has always been averse to returning. He was expelled from his own country for crime, but found the Saviour here, and loves the country where he has found so inestimable a treasure.

Wilson gave no reason why he connected a long-enslaved man in North Carolina with someone in Africa booted for committing a crime.

As with so many things written about Omar, its hard to separate truth from fiction. But we dont have to rely on the words of other people to explore his true identity.

Omar left us his own clues.



The authentic story

An ocean away from the Carolinas, Africa is reclaiming its story in the gleaming halls of a new $30 million museum in Senegals capital city.

The Museum of Black Civilizations opened in downtown Dakar in late 2018 after a long and fitful effort begun by the countrys first president after French colonization ended. He wanted the continent to reclaim its narrative.

Spanning 150,000 square feet across four stories, it is among the largest museums of its kind in Africa.

Yet even the concept of a museum is a Western one, museum Director Hamady Bocoum explains. In the past, Europeans told the African story in their museums as one of ethnography, the study of other cultures.

Africans werent interested, Bocoum says.

Mamarame Seck, the linguistics professor guiding our journey to find Omar in Senegal, knows Bocoum well. He works at nearby IFAN Cheikh Anta Diop University and is curator of a museum exhibit that explores Abrahamic faiths in African societies. He translates for the two Post and Courier journalists, given Bocoum speaks French, as do most people in Dakar.

We want to show Africa as we understand it, Bocoum says. There has been a consistent need to tell the African story from the African view.

The vast majority of Africas cultural heritage is held in museums outside of the continent. One museum in Paris alone has 70,000 objects from Africa. Now, this museum has space to reclaim many of them.

But its not just about regaining artifacts.

Descendants of enslaved people in America, confronting racism and other scars of slavery, have long sought to find their lost ancestors and cultural origins on the continent.

But here in Africa, the aftermath feels different. Children learn songs that talk of slavery and its horrors, but not of what happened to people after their capture. The mass vanishing of 12 million loved ones left a huge void, after which lives of those who remained continued on.

The diaspora did a lot to understand Africa," Bocoum says. "But Africa did not do enough to understand the diaspora. We want to fill that gap."

We tell him that we also want to fill the gap. That is why we have come  to bring the writings of one man from the diaspora home.

But first we must find that home.

The 'wrong' places

The two-lane road to Futa Toro slices through the hot Sahel, a buffer between the Sahara Desert to the north and the savannah below. Except for dottings of scrappy shrubs and trees, little interrupts the vast terrain of apricot-colored sand.

As we drive inland, modern buildings with WiFi give way to simple structures built of clay. Fertile land here used to feed its people, but today the desert encroaches. Many of the gaunt cows and goats that roam wont survive to the rainy season, still a few months away.

Before we left Charleston, Duke University professor Mbaye Lo, who has family ties here, offered some advice.

We say in Wolof that change is groomed in wrong places,  he emailed. I think you may benefit more from visiting those wrong places.

Indeed, its hard to know where to begin.

Given Omar wrote that he was born in Futa Toro, we cruise toward it. In the front seat, as Gueye reads Omar's autobiography, he notices something.

Gueye teaches Arabic at a prestigious Islamic institute in Dakar but hails from Futa. And he thinks Omar wrote that a large army captured him and took him to a specific place. And that place name looks very similar to the one Omar wrote in his 1819 letter, where he pleaded to return to Africa.

Urgency propels us into Futa.

Because what if we can find that place?

Omar's writing isn't clear. The name looks like Kaba, or Kabya, maybe. But we dont see any obvious matches on maps, ancient or modern.

We turn to Omars clues.

He wrote, My birthplace is Futa Toro, between the two rivers. But Futa hugs the Senegal River for 250 miles. From it sprout myriad branches and tributaries.

Omar also set his capture in 1807. That is the year Futas revolutionary leader was murdered, his close supporters killed or captured, not far from the river.

Gueye calls his grandfather, who lives near the area. Does the place name Omar wrote look anything like a village there, specifically one between two rivers?

He suggests one such place. The next morning, we head there.

Two centuries after the Islamic revolution swept through Futa, it remains steeped in Quranic teaching. Along our travels, five times a day, speakers mounted atop mosques of all sizes launch the song of the muezzin. These men intone the distinctive call to prayer, which guides the rhythms of everyday life.

When we reach the tiny village off a dirt road, its imam greets us warmly and invites us to join him on colorful mats spread over the sand. He cautions the name Omar ibn Said is very common. In fact, it was his own fathers name.

And here is not between two rivers, he adds. When you hear between the two rivers, that is coming from Podor heading to Salde.

In other words, the Isle of Morfil. It is a 100-mile-long tongue of land within Futa framed by the Senegal and Doue rivers.

We thank him, then head to a village where a roadside vendor sells colorful plastic brooms alongside Coca-Cola and Fanta. Then to a larger town where the Muslims in our group pray at a pastel-painted mosque. Then to a small city where an imam greets us in a house with French TV blaring.

Everywhere we stop, people point us to other places whose name just might be the word Omar wrote.

When we reach a small rice-growing village on the Isle of Morfil, a very old man shakes his head.

The place between two rivers cannot be this area, he says.

It is around Halwar, near Coppe  on another end of the island.

Over the past two days alone, we have driven almost 300 miles across paved roads and fields of sand in search of Omar. Our clothes are grimy, our rented Toyota Fortuner smothered in dust. The idea of driving across the island in search of a remote village feels daunting.

From the front seat, Gueye bursts into laughter.

Omar is making me crazy, he says.

Our driver agrees. But also, its thrilling. Like a movie that never ends!

'A true Muslim'

Our quest doesn't seek only to find Omars home. Were also searching for his essence, that part of him and his faith and loved ones that he wasnt free to reveal.

Which brings us to Dimat Walo, home of Imam Amadou Baidy Sy, one of the areas most learned men.

Outside several simple clay structures, a dozen boys sit on a mat covering a patch of sand. As Omar did, they write Quranic passages on wood tablets and chant the words to memorize them. The gentle sound mingles with the bleating of goats and crowing of roosters. A woman hangs laundry from a pink bucket onto a long line near Sys home.

Inside, he sits in the wooden chair beside his black-and-gold Quran.

Sy and two other men pore over Omars letter and autobiography. They agree he was very educated. But did he convert to Christianity?

The men confer, then announce their findings.

He is a true Muslim, Sy says. We dont have a doubt.

Across an ocean, across cultures, leaders at the Fayetteville mosque saw the same thing when we visited.

This brother is still a Muslim, Adam Beyah, now the imam emeritus, told us.

He saw a devoted man trying to survive enslaved in a Christian world. Just look how often Omar wrote Surah Al-Mulk after his conversion.

Hes inviting them to look at Allahs creation, Beyah said.

Sy emphasizes the same principles.

Before we arrived, he was reading a Quranic verse in which the prophet Muhammad praises Mary and Jesus. There is unity among Abrahamic faiths. Jesus, a great prophet in Islam, would have been familiar to Omar when he arrived in Charleston.

Sy holds up his Quran.

We are all one community.

Thats when we ask him to look at Omars letter where he pleaded, I wish to be seen in our land called Africa  fi makan al bahri yusumma Coppe.

Close encounter

Heading onto the Isle of Morfil, the air cools and dust hangs thick in the air. The drive feels like vaulting through dense fog into some secret, ancient place.

Donkeys pull wooden carts across the island, about 7 miles wide here. The paved road was built just in the past year. Women, who carry goods in baskets atop their heads, still grind millet by hand.

We cross the Doue and head toward the Senegal River, the countrys northern border.

A sign ahead reads: Coppe Mangay.

When we park, the only cars around, much of the village sits waiting beneath a roof of woven branches attached to a structure. An elder named Samba Doucourel Ba settles into the center where Seck and Gueye join him.

Salaam alaikum, Seck begins, or, Peace be upon you.

A chorus returns, Alaikum salaam.

He explains our quest and pulls out one of Omars photographs. Ba takes it and leans over onto his side to study the image for several long seconds. Something in his countenance resembles Omar.

Soon, copies of all three surviving pictures of Omar weave through the gathering of people: Old men in caps and long robes called boubous. Young men in jeans and shorts. Women in colorful headwraps and flowing dresses. Are these descendants of Omars family and friends?

Gueye hands Omars 1819 letter to Ba, who begins reading it. When he reaches Omars plea to return to a place in Africa, he glances up.

"Kopia?"

He suggests summoning the imam. When the man arrives, Seck hands him Omars letter and points to his appeal.

"Kaba," the imam says.

He looks at the autobiography and repeats, "Kaba."

Seck asks: Could it read Coppe?

The imam stops and peers at him. His mood turns tense: Why exactly are these Americans here?

What would it mean if Omar  important enough for two journalists, one Black and one White, to travel across the ocean  was from this village? The weight of so much that Europeans and Americans have taken from Africa hangs in the air like the thick dust around us.

Seck explains that Sy, the imam in Dimat Walo, read the word as Coppe and suggested we come here for answers.

The imam respects Sy and wants to talk to him. From the crowd, someone produces a cellphone, and he disappears inside the structure beside us.

When he emerges a few minutes later, he says that he trusts Sys interpretation. He can see where the word might be Coppe. To him, it looks more like Kaba, but they dont know of anywhere called Kaba in Futa Toro.

Later, when we show Omars writing to other imams and historians in the region, most agree that the word could be read as Coppe, especially how Omar wrote it in his autobiography. But it isnt clear.

The call to prayer beckons in the distance, as it has for centuries, and no debate over Omar will interfere with it. The women and children vanish. Some men head away; others remain to pray beneath the thatched roof.

Seck translates the buzz around us: They consider Omar as someone from the Futa, and theyre praying for him because they believe he is one of them. If Omar was one of them, they cant tell for sure. But it is possible. They cannot be 100 percent sure because there were many Africans, many Fuutankoobe, who were taken away.

After prayer, and after lunch, the villages leader and a dozen other men stroll with us to the Senegal River, not 100 feet away. Omars pastor in Wilmington, who wrote one of the more accurate accounts of his life, noted that Uncle Moreau was born upon the banks of the Senegal River.

At the waters edge, several men build a fishing boat, and their hammering bounces over the water. Behind a veil of dust, Mauritania sits on the other side.

Coppe used to be a trading post. For 400 years, as other villages succumbed to raids and war and time, this one never moved. Ancient maps, which spell it Kope, attest to that endurance.

It helped that the village sits higher than the surrounding areas. The river also flows wide here, a source of life and transport that stretches several hundred feet across, even now in the dry season.

+4 How we did the Omar ibn Said project For two weeks, countless Senegalese opened their homes and villages, offering insight to two Post and Courier journalists and their team who showed up asking about a long-ago man most had never heard of.

That proximity also brought risk. The men describe two types of armies that attacked Coppe: Europeans who raided from boats on the river and Moors from Mauritania who slipped across it.

For a moment, we all stand silent at the waters edge. In this ancient village between two rivers, Omar feels close. He feels closer than anywhere we have traveled on this quest.

This is it, Seck says softly. I feel it.

But we cannot know for sure. Omar didnt tell us enough, a choice he made to protect himself and his most personal memories.

Before we leave, one of the men of Coppe asks our group if they can keep the packet of Omars texts. They want to study it and allow imams around the region to discuss his meaning more deeply among themselves.

Yes, we tell them. It is theirs, and his, not ours.
Editorials represent the institutional view of the newspaper. They are written and edited by the editorial staff, which operates separately from the news department. Editorial writers are not involved in newsroom operations.
Tanker trucks are parked near the entrance of Colonial Pipeline Company on May 12 in Charlotte. The operator of the nations largest fuel pipeline confirmed it paid $4.4 million to a gang of hackers who broke into its computer systems, according to a report from The Wall Street Journal. Colonial Pipelines CEO Joseph Blount told the Journal that he authorized the payment after the ransomware attack because the company didnt know the extent of the damage.
I thank the writer who penned the May 22 letter about sisters reminiscing about the impact their mother had on their education.

They credit their mother with making sure they had options and could break the cycle of poverty.

Momma would absolutely not let Daddy pull us girls out of school to be just farm labor, said one of the women was quoted as saying.

The impact of mothers on their childrens education cannot be overstated. The National Institutes of Health determined that a mothers reading skill is the greatest determinant of her childrens future academic success, outweighing other factors, such as neighborhood and family income.

Research further confirms that when women increase their skills, they increase their income. When they increase their income, they use their new earnings to improve their education, health and nutrition and that of their families.

They become better able to read to their young children and help them with their schoolwork. They teach their children that education is important.

Trident Literacy witnesses this transformation every day. Fifty-six percent of our students are women trying to make a better life for themselves and their children. They juggle work, school and child care, and work hard to overcome every barrier that might get in their way. They are determined to succeed and break the cycle of poverty.

To volunteer or donate, visit www.tridentlit.org.

EILEEN CHEPENIK

Executive Director

Trident Literacy Association

Rivers Avenue

North Charleston

Omit tuition time limit

All too often, we hear stories of veterans and their families being treated as second-class citizens by the government that promised to take care of them after they took the oath to defend our nation.

We are fortunate in the Lowcountry to have the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, which, for more than a decade, has been rated in the top 10% of all hospitals for quality of care and customer service.

There is, however, more we must do to support our vets.

Congresswoman Nancy Mace assured us she would do everything within her power to advance legislation that promotes the needs and rights promised veterans. Im heartened to see that she is carrying through on her promises as a member of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs.

Mace introduced legislation extending the college tuition assistance benefits for families of vets killed or permanently disabled in action. Currently, these families have just 10 years to take advantage of this benefit, which means college tuition assistance would expire for veterans preschool-age children before they graduate from high school.

This is one of the only benefit programs with such a time limit. Eliminating the imposed 10-year time limit is vitally needed.

Maces bill became part of a larger veterans bill, which is now on the way to the Senate. I urge all Americans to ask their congressional leaders to support extending college tuition assistance benefit for the families of veterans killed or permanently disabled in action.

Sign up for our opinion newsletter Get a weekly recap of South Carolina opinion and analysis from The Post and Courier in your inbox on Monday evenings. Email

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DAVID SHIMP

Ben Sawyer Boulevard

Mount Pleasant

Climate emergency

Our Lowcountry way of life is in grave danger.

With one exception, South Carolinas U.S. senators and representatives place their allegiance to the Republican Party over their duty to protect the interests of their constituents.

I recently asked Rep. Nancy Mace if she would affirm that she would not support a climate change denier for president in 2024. She declined to address the question.

Sen. Lindsay Graham stated his position on Fox News in February: Its impossible for this party to move forward without Donald Trump as its leader.

To support or vote for a climate change denier such as Trump or one of his followers now, in 2022 or 2024 is incompatible with the future survival of Charleston and the Lowcountry.

DAVID STONEY

Venning Street

McClellanville

Support Azerbaijan day

Please consider adopting a proclamation, citation or resolution to celebrate May 28 as the Azerbaijan National Day.

May 28 marks the 102nd anniversary of the establishment of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic.

As the worlds first predominantly Muslim secular parliamentary democracy, Azerbaijan stretches from the Caucasus mountains in the north to the Araxes river in the south, from the Caspian Sea in the east to the Nakhchivan region in the western end, totaling some 44,000 square miles.

All ethnic and religious groups, including Christians, Jews and Muslims, have sizable representation in its parliament. The country was recognized by other democratic nations, including the U.S., since restoration of its independence in October 1991.

Marking May 28 as the Azerbaijan National Day is very important in our turbulent times, as that date symbolizes not only the 102nd anniversary of the founding of the country but also its long-lasting commitment of the nation.

GUNEL MASTALIYEVA

Mathis Ferry Road

Mount Pleasant
Goose Creek, SC (29445)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this morning. Thunderstorms likely during the afternoon. High 88F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low 71F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
The Republic of Singapore Air Force has deployed airmen, F-16s, F-15SG fighters and a G550 Airborne Early Warning aircraft to Andersen Air Force Base for joint training. The Singaporeans arrived May 24.

Brig. Gen. Jeremy Sloane, 36th Wing commander on Andersen, said "the U.S.-Singapore bond is grounded in a history of common interests and shared perspectives."

This deployment continues the long-running practice of training on Guam, having conducted bilateral exercises with the U.S. Marine Corps as early as the 1990s, according to Andersen. Most recently in 2019, the Republic of Singapore Air Force deployed to Andersen to conduct training.

In December 2019, then-U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper and Singapore Minister for Defence Ng Eng Hen signed a memorandum of understanding establishing a Republic of Singapore Air Force permanent fighter training detachment on Guam. The training presence, which will begin around 2029, will consist of approximately a squadron of aircraft and associated personnel, and include the construction of hangars, aprons and support facilities for the detachment footprint.

The RSAF also operates at U.S. Air Force bases in Arizona and Idaho.
Insights

What counts as culture? Is it simply the original culture, as we understand it, or should it include the cultural features introduced over time? Read more
Iconic Labs CEO Brad Taylor joins Proactive London's Katie Pilbeam to discuss his vision to build a portfolio of companies along three divisions

The first division is to leverage off the companys history in media and publishing. The second division will focus on security, data, and information companies and the final divisions will be to acquire dynamic technology and artificial intelligence companies.

Taylor believes this vision builds on their existing experience and expertise, but it also offers an ambitious path for growth and value creation going forward.

He also explains why it is crucial to shareholders to attend the general meeting of the company on Tuesday 15 June.
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Evan Brandt has been a staff reporter for The Mercury for more than 20 years. He covers municipal, school district, political, state government, federal government and environmental news.
Joe Biden is a classic corrupt politician. He has used his decades in public office to enrich himself and his family in a manner that we usually associate with graft-seeking politicians of the 19th Century. The Burisma story, from which the Democratic Party press studiously averted its eyes, is a perfect example.

Joes son Hunter was given a place on Burismas board of directors and paid a salary of $1 million per year, making him by far the highest-paid person associated with Burisma. No Burisma employee, and no one else on Burismas board, made anywhere near that much money. This despite the fact that Hunter did not speak Ukrainian, knew nothing about the natural gas industry, and was a drug-addled, barely employable neer-do-well. The money obviously was intended as a bribe for the benefit of then-Vice President Joe Biden, who was in charge of Ukraine policy for the Obama administration. No one is dumb enough to write a check to a politician so as to document a bribe. Rather, the check is written to a bag man. That was the role that Hunter played here.

All of this is a well-known story, to those who pay attention if not to readers who rely on the New York Times. Now an additional fact has come to light: Burisma cut Hunters income in half when Joes term as Vice President ended.

The Ukrainian energy company that was paying President Bidens son Hunter $1 million a year cut his monthly compensation in half two months after his father ceased to be vice president. From May 2014, Burisma Holdings Ltd. was paying Hunter $83,333 a month to sit on its board, invoices on his abandoned laptop show. But in an email on March 19, 2017, Burisma executive Vadym Pozharskyi asked Hunter to sign a new directors agreement and informed him the only thing that was amended is the compensation rate.

***

After the email, the amount listed on Hunters monthly Burisma invoices was reduced to $41,500, effective from May 2017.

Burisma helpfully pointed out that the remuneration is still the highest in the company. Here is the March 19 email:

Note that in addition to Hunter Biden, the email was addressed to Robert Biden. Hunters real first name is Robert, and I assume this is just another email address for him. In addition, the email went to Eric Schwerin and Joan Peugh. Schwerin is Hunters partner in the lobbying firm Oldaker, Biden & Belair. And Joan Peugh is a Senior Adviser in Rosemont Seneca Partners, a shady investment firm that was co-founded by Hunter. Devon Archer was a founder of Rosemont along with Hunter Biden. He, like Biden, served on Burismas board, but at a much lower salary. In 2018 Archer was convicted on securities fraud and conspiracy charges.

It is blindingly obvious that Hunters association with Burismawhich is to say, Joe Bidens associationwas all about influence peddling, not natural gas. And we know for a fact that when the time came for Burisma to seek influence at a high level of the U.S. State Department, its lobbyists at Blue Star Strategies specifically invoked the fact that two high profile U.S. citizens are associated with the company (including Hunter Biden as a board member). The millions paid to the Biden family evidently paid off, as the State Department scheduled a meeting that took place within a week of the Biden name being invoked. Joe was Vice President at the time.

If Joe Biden were a Republican, this would be the most famous scandal since Teapot Dome. And, in fact, it is vastly worse than Teapot Dome. Moreover, Burisma is just one instance of Joe Biden selling his political influence, or perceived political influence, for cash. A few others are known only because they were documented on the laptop that Hunter apparently forgot in a drug-induced haze, or in emails from Hunter that have otherwise come to light. No one knows how many other instances of Biden corruption may have occurred.

And no one ever will know, if the Democratic Party press has anything to say about it.
Turnover for the year will be at least 9mln (FY 2020: 2.1mln)

( ) said revenues in the year to April just ended more than quadrupled as a contract for its MagnifEye AI technology with Excalibur started to come through.

MagnifEye is an AI diagnostic lateral flow test reader that was granted emergency UK approval in May and where Sensyne has a minimum revenue, 4.8mln contract with Excaliber.

Turnover for the year will be at least 9mln (FY 2020: 2.1mln) said the AIM-listed group with cash and equivalents at the year-end of 23.6mln.

Sensyne added that it was also seeing strong growth in its patient database and now had 18.2mln unique de-identified and anonymised records from the UK and the US.

In the UK, the company said it now has access to 8.5mln patient records, a three-fold increase during the financial year following the signing of six new strategic research agreements (SRAs) with NHS Trusts.

These deals provide coverage of 13% of the UK population and a significant step towards the target of 20%.

In May 2021, the company also signed its first two US SRAs with leading healthcare providers St Luke's University Health Network, serving Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and Colorado Center for Personalised Medicine, providing access to 9.8mln patient records in the US.

Sensyne is targeting a dataset of 100mln patient records by the end of 2024, which would be representative of the patient populations in the key markets of interest to the life sciences industry.

Revenue growth this year will continue to be driven by life sciences in the near term, though it will take a flexible approach to the overall mix and expects to perform in line with its expectations for the overall total.

Strategic opportunities and acquisitions are also being considered, it said.

Lord Drayson, chief executive, added:: "COVID-19 has accelerated the demand for deeply curated real-world patient data and AI analytical tools to inform effective decision making in the delivery of patient care and the efficient development of new medicines.

"Sensyne Health's partnership model for the ethical use of patient data, in partnership with the NHS and US healthcare providers, has enabled it to build a leadership position in clinical AI that is reflected in our robust growth in data and revenues.

"The company is now well placed to capitalise on this growth to become the global leader in the ethical application of clinical AI to patient data."
Further to my item the other day on Yale to Alumni: Drop Dead, I learn of another petition candidate who has been organizing to run next year: Gail Lavielle, Yale MA 1981. Scan through her bio: shes quite impressive, with a distinguished career both in the private sector and in public service, both here in the U.S. and overseas. She seems an ideal candidate for the board of any organization.

Lavielle notes in an email the irregularity and contempt of Yales decision to eliminate petition alumni board candidacies, and wonders whether the step was taken in accord with Yales own rules:

The statement in the Senior Trustees letter about respect for petitioning candidates is disingenuous in the extreme. Both the letter and the longer statement on the Boards web site argue that any petitioning candidate with organized support would bring an agenda to the Board and would therefore be unable to address the issues facing Yale with independent judgment. This suggestion is disrespectful and deeply offensive not only to petitioning candidates, but also to those who sign their petitions and to those who ultimately choose to vote for them. Not only would it be highly inappropriate to serve in such a manner, but it would also be folly to expect that a single new member could impose an outside agenda on a board of trustees.

The timing of the announcement raises concerns. The vote to drop the petition option was taken at a meeting on May 18, almost a full week before the email went to alumni. The announcement was not made until May 24 in the afternoon, almost 15 hours after the end of both the 2021 Alumni Fellow election and the start of the 2022 petitioning period. Meanwhile, petitioning candidates had been required to declare their intention to petition on March 15. They had all been working for more than two months and were standing ready for their petitions to become available for signatures at midnight on May 24. During this time, I released a statement about why I decided to run, my background, and how I would approach the role of Alumni Fellow, which I invite you to read here.

Announcing the Boards decision before March 15 would have made more sense than postponing the Boards vote until May 18 and its announcement until May 24, when the declarations of petitioning candidates had already been accepted by Yale officials months earlier. The timing gives the impression that Board members may have found the potential outcome of the 2021 election in progress inconvenient. The impression may be inaccurate, but it is still difficult to disregard.

I have questions about the decision-making process itself. Yales by-laws can be amended by a 2/3 majority of the Board only if the agenda item and related materials are distributed to members either at the immediately previous Board meeting or at least 30 days before the vote is to be taken. Records show that the Boards two ex officio members  Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont and Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz  had received no information on this subject during the relevant time periods. This raises the question of whether the vote was properly noticed and, by extension, whether it was properly taken. It also begs the question of why these two key individuals in Yales home state (both of whom hold Yale degrees) were not informed that an issue of such importance to alumni was to be raised by the Board.

There is an important question to be answered. If the Yale Corporation did notice the May 18 vote properly to all of its members, it should be able to produce documentary evidence. I call on the Yale Corporation to do so. If it cannot, might the decision to discontinue the petitioning process be invalid? If so, the petitioning period will still be open.

Unless and until Yale produces such evidence, I will continue to move forward with collecting alumni signatures for my petition to appear on the 2022 ballot using the petition form provided by Yale on May 21. Id encourage you to sign my petition if youre up for it. Some of you will be receiving it by mail this week, as a mailing went out on Monday morning, before the announcement. A form that you can download is also available here. Please mail it directly to me at 109 Hickory Hill Road, Wilton, CT 06897.

Even if the Board can prove that it gave proper notice of the May 18 vote, a groundswell of petition signatures from alumni who disagree with the decision will certainly send a message to the Yale Corporation and the Yale Alumni Association that this dramatic change in election policies is not going to go down without a fight.
Glenn Kessler, the Washington Posts fact checker, has written an article called Timeline: How the Wuhan lab-leak theory suddenly became credible. The title itself needs to be fact checked against the content of Kesslers piece. Kesslers timeline shows that the leak theory was always credible. Whats changed is that the theory now can be deemed very likely true.

Our friend Sen. Tom Cotton takes center stage in the introduction to Kesslers piece. The fact checker writes:

Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) from the start pointed to the labs location in Wuhan, pressing China for answers, so the history books will reward him if he turns out to be right.

But Cotton indisputably was right about the labs location in Wuhan and right to press China for answers. Thats clear from the timeline. He already has turned out to be right.

Kesslers incoherent sentence manifests the grudging nature of his respect for Cottons contribution. It is consistent with, though less egregious than, the Posts unjust disparagement of Cotton on the subject.

Kesslers timeline acknowledges that disparagement, but understates it. The Post article he links to proclaimed: Tom Cotton keeps repeating a coronavirus conspiracy theory that was already debunked. Keep this in mind the next time you read in the Post that something a conservative says has been debunked.

Donald Trump also makes an appearance in the preface to Kesslers timeline:

The Trump administration also sought to highlight the lab scenario but generally could only point to vague intelligence. The Trump administrations messaging was often accompanied by anti-Chinese rhetoric that made it easier for skeptics to ignore its claims.

Why should the Post and others of its ideological bent have ignored Trumps claim because he used anti-China rhetoric? Is China a sacred cow for the left?

The Post didnt ignore claims that Trump colluded with Russia even though those claims were often accompanied by anti-Russia rhetoric and always by anti-Trump rhetoric.

Kessler seems to be excusing those who dismissed an always-plausible theory of the origin of the Wuhan coronavirus. Trumps claims were ignored because they came from Trump, not because of anti-China rhetoric. But Kessler doesnt seem to entertain this possibility.

Kessler characterizes his timeline this way:

In some instances, important information was available from the start but was generally ignored. But in other cases, some experts fought against the conventional wisdom and began to build a credible case, rooted in science, that started to change peoples minds. This has led to renewed calls for a real investigation into the labs activities before the coronavirus emerged.

(Emphasis added)

Again, the case for believing that the virus came from a Chinese lab was always credible. Kesslers first sentence basically acknowledges as much.

That first sentence is for me the most important story that emerges from Kesslers timeline. Consider:

Feb. 19: A statement is published in Lancet by a group of 27 scientists: We stand together to strongly condemn conspiracy theories suggesting that covid-19 does not have a natural origin, the statement says. Scientists overwhelmingly conclude that this coronavirus originated in wildlife. The statement was drafted and organized by Peter Daszak, president of EcoHealth Alliance, which funded research at WIV with U.S. government grants. (Three of the signers have since said a laboratory accident is plausible enough to merit consideration.) March 17: An analysis published in Nature Medicine by an influential group of scientists states: Although the evidence shows that SARSCoV-2 is not a purposefully manipulated virus, it is currently impossible to prove or disprove the other theories of its origin described here. However, since we observed all notable SARS-CoV-2 features, including the optimized RBD [receptor- binding domain] and polybasic cleavage site, in related coronaviruses in nature, we do not believe that any type of laboratory-based scenario is plausible. Feb. 9 [of this year]: A joint report by the World Health Organization and China declares: The findings suggest that the laboratory incident hypothesis is extremely unlikely to explain introduction of the virus into the human population.

(Emphasis added)

Keep these damning excerpts in mind the next time someone tries to settle an argument by insisting that we follow the science. Or by citing the World Health Organization.
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The City of Swift Current's active transportation expansion project will include extending the Chinook Parkway along the northern bank of the Swift Current Creek behind the Regier Honda dealership up to Highway No. 4. The Elmwood golf course is located on the opposite side.
Amidst a profound surge in the negative impacts of land degradation due to human activities across the continent of Africa, sustainable environmental practices advocates have called for the intensification of proactive and conservative measures to reduce the pace of land ruin.

The environmentalists made this call during the third session of a dryland fellowship thematic training organised by Climate Tracker which was held virtually, Thursday.

The fellowship workshop, which had about 50 journalists across 23 African countries, is a prerequisite training aimed at equipping and empowering reporters to deepen coverage of the forthcoming Global Landscape Forum (GLF) conference, with a major focus on dryland restoration challenges as it affects their respective countries.

During his presentation, Peter Minang, a principal scientist with the World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF), explained that Africa is among the most vulnerable and most affected continents by land degradation, and that about 500 millions of hectares have already been impacted so far.

Desertification affects around 45 % of Africas land area; 55% of these areas are at high or very high risk of further degradation, while Africa loses at least 56 billion Euros annually, he said.

He said land degradation is majorly triggered by the intensification of land use, and that in drylands, land degradation, if unabated, mostly leads to desertification.

Other major drivers of land degradation in the continent, he said, include: Agricultural activities; Demographic factors; Infrastructure extension; Economic factors ; Policy and institutional factors; Wood extraction and related activities; Technological factors; as well as Cultural factors among others.

However, he noted that factors such as growing population, poverty and poor governance stand out as significant indirect drivers of land degradation.

At one of the breakout sessions, when asked what Nigeria could do to prevent incessant felling of trees for wood-energy (Charcoal) production, and pastoralists, Mr Minang said there is a need to put in place policies that will drive sustainable use of alternative green energy at affordable rates.

Efficient cooking stoves put in place would reduce the demand for wood extraction from the forests. Develop a wood programme and help people get out of poverty, he said.

To curb farmer-herder clashes, the ICRAF official said there is a need to improve grazing land and tree fodder in order to boost livestock nutrition all year round.

Adopt improved farming methods and install water harvesting technologies that can be managed on a small scale. This will improve land ability to hold water for plant growth, he said.

Dryland degradation impacts

According to a report shared with journalists during the training, approximately 340 million hectares of woody vegetation in Africas dryland zones have become degraded through overgrazing, agricultural expansion and overexploitation for fuelwood and timber.

The report titled; Wood Solution: The key to driving large-scale forest restoration, noted further that ..Despite substantial evidence of its economic potential, restoration in these areas is often considered a cost-intensive intervention that conflicts with unsustainable, but perceivably more lucrative livelihoods and industries.

Speaking on the impacts of land degradation on the surrounding environment, Salima Mahamoudou, a research associate at World Resources Institute (WRI), stated that some under-reported environmental impact of land degradation is the disappearance of the practice of fallow.

Also, she said the growing development of agricultural fields on pastoral lands and protected areas as well as flooding in surrounding cities among others are the major under-reported impacts.

Jonathan Davies, who doubles as the Global Agriculture Programme Lead at the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and coordinator of the Global Drylands Initiative, explained that dryland expansion affects about one-third of the worlds planet.

He said there is a need for dryland restoration because it has caused the decline in biological and economic productivity of land soil biodiversity.

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In a similar manner, Birguy Diallo, a senior project officer with the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), stated that the aftermath of food losses is one of the greatest drivers of land degradation in Africa.

She urged all journalists present to use their prolific story telling prowess to amplify further, the impacts of land degradation on livelihoods as well as the need to consistently promote dryland restoration campaigns their respective countries of residence.

Climate Tracker (CT) is an international non-profit organization, aiming to support, train and incentivise better climate journalism globally.
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French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday arrived in Rwanda in a bid to normalise relations between the two countries.

The relationship that had been clouded for years over Frances actions in the 1994 genocide in the East African nation that left 800,000 people dead.

Its Mr Macrons first visit to the country since taking office.

He expressed hope before departing for a new beginning in the relations.

After meeting with President Paul Kagame, he will visit a memorial for victims of the genocide, which saw representatives of the Hutu majority kill members of the Tutsi minority and moderate Hutus.

A commission of historians recently concluded that France bore a heavy responsibility for the genocide; one of the conclusions was that Paris had remained blind to preparations for the killings.

However, there was no evidence of Frances complicity in the deaths.

Mr Macron is scheduled to continue on to South Africa on Friday.

(NAN)
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Authorities ordered a partial evacuation of Goma, a large city in eastern Congo, early Thursday out of concerns about a further eruption of a nearby volcano.

The military governor of the North Kivu region, Kongba Constant, announced on the official TV broadcaster RTNC that 10 districts would be evacuated.

Authorities would organise transport, he said, and residents should take along only the bare necessities.

Residents had fled their homes in panic, some even to neighbouring Rwanda, after the Nyiragongo volcano erupted over the weekend.

Some of the lava had flowed toward Goma, but stopped 300m from the airport.

Forty people were still missing, according to UN figures, while some 20,000 people have been left homeless.

Humanitarian relief efforts have been hampered by airport closures in Goma and the neighbouring city of Bukavu.

Three villages and a Goma suburb were destroyed by lava from the volcano in Virunga National Park, about 20km north of the city, near the Rwanda border.

Nyiragongo last erupted in 2002, with lava destroying large parts of Goma at the time, leaving 250 people dead and displacing 120,000.

(NAN)
Without accountability and political intervention, ending child marriage and gender-based-violence in West Africa will continue to be a mirage, further posing a severe developmental threat to the region.

This was the hallmark of discussions by experts at a dialogue held Tuesday to assess the level of implementation of the Economic Community of West Africa (ECOWAS) Child Policy and Roadmap to Ending Child Marriage at regional level.

The event which was held virtually was organised by the West African Civil Society Forum (WACSOF), under the Pan Africa State Accountability Project (PASAP).

Statistics

In West Africa, one in 10 girls will marry before their 15th birthday, according to UNICEF estimates.

More than a third of girls in Nigeria, Africas most populous nation, end up in child marriages, and with 22 million married before the age of 18. The nation has among the highest number of child brides in Africa, according to a 2018 UNICEF report.

ECOWAS policy

In January 2019, authorities in member states of the ECOWAS made a political declaration and took a common position against child marriage by adopting the ECOWAS Child Policy and its Strategic Action Plan (2019-2023).

The declaration, which was made in Abuja, Nigerias capital city, adopted the retention and implementation of all children in formal and/or alternative quality education systems up to the age of 18 in a compulsory and progressively free manner.

A major focus of the action plan was reducing child marriage to the bare minimum by 2023.

Implementation status

While efforts by WACSOF, UNICEF, and several civil organisations helped in fast-tracking the adoption of the ECOWAS policy, implementation has been stagnant at the country-level, advocates say.

This informed WACSOFs decision to organise Tuesdays webinar to provide CSOs, institutions and other individuals working in child rights and gender issues a platform to engage with the ECOWAS on reviewing efforts and the progress made in implementing the Child Right Policy and The Road Map to ending Child Marriage.

The regional gender adviser at the West and Central Africa Regional Office of UNICEF, Deguene Fall, who spoke at the forum, noted that positive results were achievable when policies and advocacy are driven by political will and accountability.

She stated that child marriage was a key area of concern for the ECOWAS policy, and theres an alarming data on social norms and gender-based violence in the region.

She believes full implementation of the ECOWAS policy would require strengthening the capacity of CSOs that can reach rural communities and serve as a check on governments interventions.

Ms Deguene urged regional authorities to leverage and harmonise the instrument of the law, community efforts and the good standing of leaders of sociocultural institutions.

This has to do with getting rid of endemic and some dysfunctional aspects of the various cultural traditions which harbor and encourage gender-discriminatory norms, she said.

In his remarks, the general secretary of WACSOF, Komlan Messie, said there was a need to allow for freedom of the civil societies to contribute to the change needed in the area of Child Rights and Gender issues.

Similarly, the supervisor, Pan African States Accountability Programme (PASAP), Aida Seydi, stressed the importance of youth involvement in implementing the policy.

Bertin SOME, the director of Parliamentary Affairs and Research, ECOWAS Parliament, gave an overview on what the ECOWAS has done in implementing the tools of Child Rights.

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The good thing about this declaration is that it presents advocates at the country-level, an advocacy tool to hold their governments accountable, he said.

Participants at the dialogue were enlightened on how they can support the implementation of the ECOWAS Child Policy.
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The Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, has said that the 4.2 million pounds Ibori loot has not been returned to Delta State, contrary to his earlier claim.

Mr Idris had on Tuesday told federal lawmakers in Abuja that the money, returned to the Nigerian government by the UK government, had been returned to Delta State from where it was stolen by James Ibori, former Delta governor.

However, the Delta State Government said on Wednesday that it has yet to receive the money.

In a late Wednesday statement, the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) clarified its position, saying,

The issue of the 4.2m Ibori Loot has not been properly resolved.

The OAGFs director of Information, Press and Public Relations, Henshaw Ogubike, in the statement, said the money is still being awaited, after which the issues around it will be resolved before further action is taken.

For now, no money has been returned to Delta State, he said.

This explanation, he said, is without prejudice to the proceedings at the House of Representatives during which Mr Idris was only making general comments about recoveries relating to State Governments.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how Mr Idris said Tuesday that the money had been returned to the Delta State Government. He also said such recovered monies, stolen from states, are returned to the appropriate states.

The 4.2 million pounds was stolen by former Delta governor James Ibori and lodged in UK accounts. Mr Ibori was convicted in the UK for money laundering and has served his term. He is back in Nigeria where he is actively involved in the politics of the Delta State as a godfather.

The stolen money was recently returned to the Nigerian government by the UK government which seized it from the former governor.
A look at some of today's headlines from the Proactive newswire

( ) said a new target has been defined at its majority-owned Merolia gold project in Western Australia. The first auger drilling programme over the project discovered a significant gold anomaly that extended over 5km x 2.5 km in the central part of licence E38/3384.

( ) said trading in the first four months of 2021 was materially ahead of managements expectations.

( ) said it is planning to issue convertible loan notes worth up to US$2mln to fund potential future investment opportunities.

( ) said following the completion of requisite regulatory checks, Dr Christoph Manthe will be immediately appointed to the board as a non-executive director.

Limited ( ) said Patrick Moloney, chief executive, Mary Gangemi, chief financial officer and Nick Rowles-Davies, executive vice-chairman, will provide a live investor presentation on June 9 at 10am that is open to all existing and potential shareholders.

( ) said its growth strategy remains on track after a first half that saw steady improvements in mined and processed tonnes and a strong recovery in platinum group metal prices.

AEX Gold Inc ( ) ( ) said critical contracts to advance the 2021 exploration and limited infrastructure early works programme at its Nalunaq gold mine in South Greenland have been signed and work is expected to start in early June.

( ) said it has made a solid start to 2021 and expects to continue profitable revenue growth in the medium-term while reducing costs to rebuild margins.

( ) has appointed James Cole as an independent non-executive director to replace David Swan, who is stepping down from the role after nine years, the maximum term recommended under the UK corporate governance code. Most recently Cole was finance director for the Goal Group and was formerly chief financial officer for Cominco Resources (UK).
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The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) says it fears 160 people died in the boat mishap that happened in Kebbi State on Wednesday as a most of them are yet to be found.

The agency said only four dead bodies had been recovered but 156 out of the 180 passengers onboard the boat were still missing and are feared dead.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how the boat capsized in Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

The Area Manager of the NIWA in Yauri, Yusuf Birma, told reporters that the mishap happened due to overloading, adding that four corpses were found.

The official said 20 persons were rescued and the 156 people missing are feared dead.

The boat was also carrying 30 Bajaj motorcycles, Mr Birma said.

The victims from Kebbi were going to a market in neighboring Borgu Local Government Area in Niger State. The boat reportedly broke into two pieces, the official added.

The official lamented that the boat involved is a wooden boat which is old and very weak but this people will not listen when we sensitised them to reduce the number of passengers they are carrying with the boat.
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After about five months in office, the director-general of the anti-trafficking agency, NAPTIP, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has been removed and transferred to another agency.

Mrs Sulaiman-Ibrahims initial appointment as the boss of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) violated the law of the agency.

President Muhammadu Buhari had in December 2020 appointed Mrs Sulaiman-Ibrahim as the director-general of NAPTIP, in clear violation of the law establishing the agency

Section 8 (1) of the NAPTIP Act 2015 stipulates that the director-general of the agency must be appointed from the directorate cadre in the civil service or from an equivalent cadre in any of the nations law enforcement agencies.

There shall be for the agency a Director-General who shall be from the Directorate cadre in the public service of the Federation or its equivalent in any law enforcement service and shall be appointed by the President on the recommendation of the Minister, the legislation stipulates.

However, the credentials of Mrs Sulaiman-Ibrahim do not match this requirement.

Before her appointment, Mrs Sulaiman-Ibrahim was a politician and businesswoman. She was a political appointee whose tenure ended with her former principal.

She was appointed as the substantive head of NAPTIP after her predecessor, Julie Okah-Donli, was axed months before the end of her four-year tenure. The latter too, this medium found, was not qualified as she was not in public service prior to her appointment.

When his attention was called to the illegality in Mrs Sulaiman-Ibrahims appointment, the president would not budge.

It, however, appears the president has finally come to terms with his violation of the law as presidential aide, Garba Shehu, announced on Thursday that Mrs Sulaiman-Ibrahim has been transferred.

She is now to head the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), another agency under the ministry of humanitarian affairs, replacing Basheer Mohammed.

Mr Mohammad has now swapped position with Mrs Sulaiman-Ibrahim to head NAPTIP, the presidents office said in a statement on Thursday.

This is in order to realize and sustain (the) governments abiding desire for effective and efficient service delivery in the two organisations, Mr Shehus statement read.

Mr Mohammad, 54, a former Kano central senator from 2011 to 2015, was appointed the federal commissioner of NCFRMI in 2019, an office which by rank is senior to a director but is not in the core public service.

Established in July 2003 under the Olusegun Obasanjo administration, NAPTIP was the brainchild of a private member bill sponsored by the Women Trafficking and Child Labour Eradication Foundation (WOTCLEF), a not-for-profit organisation founded by Titi Atiku, the wife of a former vice president, Atiku Abubakar.

It was established as the federal governments response to tackle human trafficking in the country.
The House of Representatives committee investigating the status of recovered loot, on Thursday, questioned the Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed, and the Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, on the transfer of N19 billion to the African Development Bank (AfDB) without due process.

The committee questioned the two officers when they appeared before it in Abuja.

Oluwole Oke (PDP, Osun), a member of the committee, flagged the transfer of the money, saying it violated the nations financial regulation and the constitution.

Citing Section 213 of the financial regulation and sections 80,81,82,83 of the 1999 constitution, he said the transfer was done without any evidence of budgetary approval.

From the EFCC Account, you took N19 billion. You took a whole N19 billion from the EFCC account and paid an international organisation, N19 whole billion is not remitted here. I am sure the accountant-general is familiar with this money. On what basis did you withdraw or transfer the money?

Agreed, I am just saying that since it is not from the Consolidated Revenue Fund; the name is very clear. It is an EFCC recovery account and we are not even sure if it is a final or interim forfeiture account. But you took N19 billion out of that account. So I expect you to back that withdrawal with the law, with the act of parliament.

Because I have the EFCC approved budgets with me. I have the 2017, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2020 Appropriation Acts with me. I cannot trace that item of expenditure from the account. Ordinarily, I wouldnt have even bothered but my worry was that that money was not appropriated for and was not taken from the consolidated revenue fund and the parliament is not even aware.

Yes you made recoveries, the fund should have been swept into the Consolidated Revenue Fund and disbursed in line with the appropriation act.

There are a series of payments made out of this recovery account and we cross-checked the appropriation act, we cant see where we made provisions for those withdrawals and that is our worry.

Edged in

Mr Idris was unable to provide satisfactory answers to the questions.

On Tuesday, he had claimed that the consolidated account and the recovery accounts were the same.

The minister of finance later intervened that the government could not have withdrawn money from the recovery account, but rather from the consolidated revenue.

On the issues raised, if you look at MTEF of 2019 and 2020, we have made provisions for asset recoveries as a budget item. We do have provisions in the budget that allows us to make use of funds from the recovered funds. But the right procedure would be to move the funds from the final assets recovery accounts to the consolidated revenue.

On his part, the Chairman of the committee, Adejoro Adeogun (APC, Ondo) said the accountant general violated the constitution and the financial regulation law.

What the accountant general has done is a clear violation of the financial regulation. If we keep having infractions like this, which our constitution makes provisions for, clearly, someone should be held for it, he said.

More borrowing from recovery accounts

Meanwhile, Sada Soli (APC, Katsina), a member of the committee flagged a borrowing from the recovery accounts to the Ministry of Defence in 2020.

N20 billion was borrowed from the federal government asset recovery account and it was released to the ministry of defence and one year later, 14th May 2018, the same N20 billion was transferred to the Capital Development Fund as a refund for the same purpose.

Mrs Ahmed admitted that the government has been borrowing money from the account, and has not been able to repay the loans.

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So far, because of the very unusually tight liquidity situation we found ourselves in, we have not been able to start paying back any of the loans.

This exercise has helped us to put together this information so that we will be able to put it against the budget, so that we will know the excess over the budget that needs to be paid back, and how to pay back by making provisions in the 2022 budget, so that we are able to start paying back.

Resolution to summon CBN governor

The Committee also resolved to invite the Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele, to brief the lawmakers of the total number of recovery accounts operated by the federal government.
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The late Chief of Army Staff, Ibrahim Attahiru, assumed office upon his appointment in January with a determination to end Nigerias insecurity challenges, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said.

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the party stated this during a condolence visit to the family of Mr Attahiru in Abuja on Wednesday.

Mr Attahiru, alongside 10 other senior officers of the army, died in a military plane crash that occurred last Friday in Kaduna while on official assignment.

The PDP, in its earlier statement after the incident, called for an extensive investigation into the crash.

However, the party in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Kola Ologbondiyan, after Uche Secondus-led NWCs visit to the family of the COAS on Wednesday, described him as an officer who came prepared to end the countrys insecurity challenges.

With Gen. Attahirus life and record of performance in serving our fatherland, it was clear that he had come with the commitment and zeal to confront and vanquish the security challenges facing our nation. His life was an eloquent testimony of his excellent service to our nation.

On behalf of the leadership of PDP, we are here to condole with you. We assure you of our prayers at this moment of grief and we believe that God will grant you and your family the fortitude to carry this pain, the PDP said.

The leaders of the opposition party offered prayers for the families of the other officers who died in the crash.

The late COAS was appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari in January 2021 following the exit of Tukur Buratai amidst the clamour by Nigerians for more results in the fight against insurgents and bandits across the country.
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The Court of Appeal in Benin on Wednesday upheld the victory of Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo at the 2020 governorship election.

The judgement was delivered barely two months after the Elections Petitions Tribunal struck out the petition by the Action Democratic Party (ADP) and its governorship candidate, Iboi Lucky.

The party had challenged the outcome of the September 19, 2020, governorship election, which returned Mr Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as governor of Edo.

The Appeal Court, delivering the judgement in the case marked CA/B/EPT/GOV/01 & 1A/2021 Action Democratic Party & Anor v. INEC & 2Ors, held that Mr Obaseki did not forge his certificates with which he contested the 2020 governorship election.

The court, therefore, dismissed the appeal filed by the ADP and its candidate.

In another case, marked /B/EPT/GOV/02/2021 Action Peoples Party (APP) Vs Godwin N. Obaseki & 2Ors., the court unanimously upheld the judgment of the tribunal and dismissed the appeal with costs assessed at N600,000 each on two different counts.

The governor won all the eight issues for determination in the appeal.

Delivering the judgement in favour of the governor, the presiding judge, M. A. Owoade, dismissed the main appeal, the preliminary objection and the cross appeal.

The judge noted that the inclusion of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, Osagie Ize-Iyamu, as respondents in the petition, was a ploy by Mr Ize-Iyamu to fight his case through another petitioner.

He described it as a case of squeezing the rock for water.

(NAN)
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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said it planed to create 2,673 registration centres and deploy 5,346 officials for the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) scheduled to resume June 28.

INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this at the commissions emergency meeting with security agencies under the auspices of the Inter-agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES).

Mr Yakubu said INEC was preparing for the resumption of the nationwide CVR to enable Nigerians who have attained the age 18 years and those who did not register previously to do so.

Similarly, registered voters who wish to change their voting locations and those who wish to correct their names and other details on their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) can do so.

We plan to create 2,673 registration centres and deploy 5,346 officials for the exercise along with expensive voter enrollment machines.

 All these activities require security, thereby adding to the urgency and importance of this meeting, Mr Yakubu said.

He said that since the conclusion of the 2019 general elections, INEC, working with the security agencies, had so far conducted four end-of-tenure governorship elections and 28 out of 32 bye-elections.

Mr Yakubu said that in the next nine months, two major elections would be conducted.

The Anambra State Governorship election is scheduled to hold on 6th November 2021 to be followed by the end-of-tenure elections for 68 Area Council constituencies in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) holding on Feb. 12, 2022.

These major elections will be followed by the Ekiti and Osun State Governorship elections ahead of the 2023 General Election which is just 632 days away, he said.

He, however, extended INEC condolences to the inspector-general of police and other security agencies for the loss of their personnel on electoral duty, the most recent of which occurred during the Ekiti East State constituency bye-election on March 2, 2021.

May God comfort their families as well as the families of voters who lost their lives during that election. The Commission has already indefinitely suspended the bye-election, Mr Yakubu said.

The ICCES meeting was attended by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Babagana Monguno, who was also Co-Chair of ICCES, and the acting Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba.

Others in attendance include heads and representatives of all Armed Forces, paramilitary and anti-graft agencies in Nigeria as well as INEC national commissioners and directors.

(NAN)
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Alliance for Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond, a non-governmental organisation, on Thursday, called for the adoption and enforcement of the Child Rights Act 2003 across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory(FCT)

Segun Falana, a representative of the group, made the demand during the Senate zonal public hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution in Lagos.

Oluremi Tinubu, senator representing Lagos Central Senatorial District and wife of the states former governor, Bola Tinubu, chairs the Constitution review committee for the public hearing in Nigerias South-west region.

Demand

Speaking at the event, Mr Falana lamented that 11 states across the country were yet to adopt the Child Rights Law, adding that those that did are also yet to effect its implementation.

He said: The Child Right Act enacted by the National Assembly in 2003 should be made applicable throughout Nigeria. We have to work it out. As of today, only 25 states have adopted that law, though they are not implementing it.

Some of the states that have refused to adopt the law include Zamfara, Borno, Kastina and all these states are where banditry has been institutionalised.

He said this has contributed to the rising insecurity in the concerned states.

They dont send their children to school, we have 14 million children of the poor, who are roaming the streets today, and this is where bandits, kidnappers, and terrorists recruit their members on a daily basis, he added.

He urged the government at all levels to enforce the Nigerian childs rights as captured in the law, and Chapter 2 of the nations Constitution.

He listed the rights to include: right to education, health, among others.

He said if Chapter 2 of Nigerias constitution is not made justiciable, there can be no political stability in our country.

He, however, accused those he described as members of Nigerias ruling class of conspiring to make the law non-enforceable.

The ongoing public hearing on Constitution review, which kicked off across the country on Wednesday, is aimed at seeking the public input in the review exercise.
President Muhammadu Buhari has said that addressing Nigerias security challenges requires the joint efforts of all Nigerians.

Mr Buhari said this on Wednesday at the opening of a four-day special summit on national security organised by the House of Representatives in Abuja.

The president commended the House for creating the forum to allow stakeholders brainstorm on issues affecting the country and the way forward.

Mr Buhari, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, said security had become a major concern at global, regional and national levels.

Nigeria shares land borders with Benin, Cameroon, Chad and Niger; and maritime boundaries with Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Sao Tome and Principe.

The challenges these borders pose to our national security and interest are enormous; the instability and conflict in the Chad basin alone deserves close attention.

Our nation has to grabble with various forms of internal security issues over the past decade in all geo- political zones.

Addressing them effectively to restore peace and security remains the responsibility of all Nigerians in and out of public office and our democratic institutions, he said.

Mr Buhari said the summit was timely, as the country was mourning the Chief of Army Staff, Ibrahim Attahiru, and other gallant officers who died in plane crash last Friday.

He said their deaths were a painful loss to the nation, the military and the efforts towards combating security challenges in the country.

In his remark, the President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, said Nigeria was at a crossroads adding that the very essence of the existence of the country was under threat.

He said what began as a small insurgency in Yobe had snowballed into a full blown terrorism with banditry in the North-west, herders/farmers clashes in North-central and attack on government facilities in South-east.

Mr Lawan said the summit was essentially to enhance the work of security agencies as criminals were becoming too comfortable, adding that the nationhood was being tested.

He said that the legislature and the executive must come together to salvage the situation appealing to the executive to implement the outcome of the summit.

The senate president, who pledged the support of the parliament for security agencies, stressed the need to review the procurement process in the military.

Mr Lawan said the parliament would work with the executive towards reviewing the security architecture of the country.

He said that the security of life and property was the responsibility of government at all levels calling for amendment of the Constitution to give more responsibilities to traditional rulers.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, said concrete efforts must be made to tackle current security challenges facing the country.

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We are a nation under attack, our victory in this present battle depends greatly on our ability in spite of our differences to mobilise in one accord against an impending catastrophe that threatens all of us regardless of language, religion, politics or status.

It may well be that it is in this battle for survival that we become a nation fully formed, therefore, we must rise to the moment with passion and perspective, he said.

(NAN)
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, has denied the allegation that he frustrated the recovery of $60 billion stolen from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and stashed away in Texas, United States.

The media aide to the AGF, Umar Gwandu, who spoke with PREMIUM TIMES on phone on Wednesday, denied the allegation and asked the accuser to provide evidence to back up the claims.

The allegation

The special prosecutor to the defunct Special Presidential Investigation Panel for Recovery of Public Property, Tosin Ojaomo, made the allegation on Wednesday at the investigative hearing into the status of the recovered loots.

There was an intelligence given to the panel that the sum of $60 billion belonging to the Nigerian government is currently being domiciled at Texas in the United States of America, which the panel has started working on, sir. All this has been taken over by the attorney-general of the federation, Mr Ojaomo stated.

He did not provide any evidence to back up his claims.

However, Adejoro Adeogun (APC, Ondo), the chairman of the House ad-hoc committee investigating the matter, asked him to provide evidence to support his allegation.

Mr Ojaomo also made other allegations against Mr Malami, and promised to avail the committee of all relevant documents to back up his allegations.

Mr Malamis reacts

We challenge anybody, who says the attorney general received any amount, we challenge such person to bring evidence forward.

The AGF has a record of facilitating the repatriation of funds from the United States of America, the U.K., Island of Jersey and other territories across the globe. He has never had any history of standing as an encumbrance or preventing the recovery of any looted Nigerian asset.

It is because of the track record that the attorney general has, that has earned Nigeria reputation, which is why many recoveries are being made or are on the verge of completion. Because of the reputation the attorney general has, he has never had any record of frustrating any Nigerian government recovery.

You remember the $9.1billion P & ID case, where he stood firmly in order to ensure that Nigeria does not lose a single penny, someone with such a record will never frustrate recovery. This is just an effort to frustrate the efforts of the AGF, Mr Gwandu said.

He added that the allegation was an attempt to smear the reputation of Mr Malami.

Mr Malami has faced criticism over the handling of the recovered loots. He was queried on Tuesday by the committee over a transfer from the recovered loot account to fund the budget of his office.

The situation was clarified by the Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, who said all accounts of the government are not sub-set to Tertiary Single Account.

Links between Mr Malami and his accuser

The two gentlemen have a long history together. Mr Malami had a turbulent relationship with other Anti-graft, including the Special Presidential Investigation Panel for Recovery of Public Property, EFCC and ICPC.

Mr Magu, the former boss of the EFCC, has been removed and replaced with Abdulrasheed Bawa, who is from Kebbi State, the same state as Mr Malami.

Special Presidential Investigation Panel for Recovery of Public Property was disbanded in 2019 by President Muhamadu Buhari, and its former chairman, Okoi Obono-Obla is facing prosecution over corruption.

Aside from being a member of the Special Presidential Investigation Panel for Recovery of Public Property, Mr Ojaomo also served as lawyer to Mr Magu during Ayo Salami-led panel that investigated the ex-EFCC boss.

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In 2020, Mr Malami reportedly revived the panel and appointed Dennis Aghanya as the lead consultant for the panel.

Mr Aghanyas Anti-Corruption and Research-Based Data Initiative was the CSO that wrote the petition against former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen.

During the hearing on Wednesday, Mr Ojaomo tried to speak on behalf of his disbanded panel but Mr Adeogun said he could only speak as an individual.

Mr Adeogun also disclosed that the committee will consider inviting Mr Malami again.
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Malis ousted interim president and the prime minister have been released, a military official said, three days after both men were arrested and made to resign in the nations second second coup in nine months.

They were freed at around 1 a.m. local time on Thursday, the BBC reported.

We were true to our word, a military official was quoted as saying by AFP news agency.

Interim President Bah Ndaw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane were taken to a military base in Kati outside the capital, Bamako, on Monday after a cabinet shakeup in which two officers were replaced.

Before their arrests, the duo were overseeing a transitional government tasked to hold elections by February next year.

Miffed by the reshuffle, Vice President Assimi Goita, a colonel, who led the coup on Monday, said he should have been contacted before the announcement was made.

He accused them of sabotage and said the election billed for 2022 will go on as planned.

Mr Goita also led the coup that ousted former President Keita in August.

While being held, Messrs Ndaw and Ouane were stripped of their positions after which they resigned on Wednesday.

Foreign leaders including Nigeria, ECOWAS, the AU and the UN have condemned the putsch. Others like France have vowed to sanction the coup promoters.

A team of negotiators delegated by the international organisations arrived the West African country on Wednesday to broker the release of the detained leaders.
Sure Valley Ventures' Barry Downes, Managing Partner at Sure Valley Ventures, the technology partner and advisor to Media Tech SPAC joins Proactive London's Katie Pilbeam.

Downes explains the collaboration between the two firms as well as his deep experience in the technology world.

He explains how he has known the MTS team for quite some time and is 'delighted' to support the firm ahead of their summer London listing.
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The police have announced the arrest of 10 suspects allegedly involved in the failed attack on the Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom.

The Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Usman Alkali, announced the arrest on Thursday at a special briefing of State House correspondents at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Those who organised and those who pulled the trigger have all been arrested and investigation is ongoing, he said.

He said investigations so far show that the outcome is contrary to the claims made by the governor.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how Mr Ortom, in March, stated that gunmen suspected to be herders attacked him on his farm near Tyo-mu, along Makurdi-Gboko Highway of Benue State.

The police chief said the suspects are still being detained by the police without prosecution because judiciary staff are on strike.

We have had them for over a month but the courts have been closed for over three months, where do I take them to? he said.
President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the swapping of positions by heads of two agencies under the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.

The agencies are National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons(NCRMI) and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).

In a statement by presidential spokesperson, Garba Shehu, on Thursday, Imaan Suleiman, the NAPTIP DG takes over as the National Commissioner in charge of NCRMI.

Consequently, the statement further stated that Bashir Mohammed, the NCRMI National Commissioner takes over as NAPTIP DG.

The statement further said the reshuffle was in order to realise and sustain governments abiding desire for effective and efficient service delivery in the two organisations.

The new NCRMI federal commissioner was appointed as the head of NAPTIP after her predecessor, Julie Okah-Donli, was axed. She assumed office in December.

A politician and businesswoman, Mrs Suleiman-Ibrahims had served as a special adviser on strategic communication to the minister of state for education before her appointment last year.

On his own part, Mr Bashir represented Kano Central Senatorial District in the 7th Nssembly Assembly.

He assumed as head of NCRMI in August 2019 after he was persuaded to step down for current senator representing the district, Ibrahim Shekarau.

READ ALSO: Buhari becomes first president to breach NAPTIP law in appointing agency head

Read full statement:

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT BUHARI SWAPS HEADS OF AGENCIES UNDER HUMANITARIAN AFFAIRS MINISTRY

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the swapping of positions by two heads of agencies under the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.

This is in order to realize and sustain governments abiding desire for effective and efficient service delivery in the two organisations.

Consequently, Mrs. Imaan Suleiman Ibrahim the current Director General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) takes over from Sen. Basheer Garba Mohammed as the Honourable Federal Commissioner for the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), while Senator Mohammed becomes the new Director General of NAPTIP.

The President further directs that the changes should be effected after comprehensive handover notes to successors.

Garba Shehu

Senior Special Assistant to the President

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(Media & Publicity)

May 27, 2021
Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State has said President Muhammadu Buhari was overreaching himself on the Executive Order 10 that gave directive on the implementation of judicial and legislative autonomies for states.

Mr Tambuwal, who is the Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum, said in Ado-Ekiti, Wednesday, that the President failed to consult widely before issuing the order.

The governor spoke during the Attorney Generals Colloquium organised by the Ekiti State Ministry of Justice Academy, in honour of the retiring Chief Judge of the State, Ayodeji Daramola.

According to him, Mr Buharis unilateral issuance of the order amounted to illegality.

Mr Tambuwal, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives and member of the Peoples Democratic Party, denied that the 36 governors were vehemently opposed to judicial and legislative autonomy.

Speaking on the topic, The Judicial Autonomy: Perspective of the Nigerian Governors Forum, Mr Tambuwal said the President was allegedly Ill-advised in issuing the order that craved judicial autonomy for states, adding that such illegal voyage undermined the powers of the governors.

Executive order 10

The president on May 20, 2020, issued the order to give breath to Section 121(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to ensure its implementation.

The order partly reads: Whereas a Presidential Implementation Committee was constituted to fashion out strategies and modalities for the implementation of financial autonomy for the State Legislature and State Judiciary in compliance with section 121(3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as Amended); taking into considerations all other applicable laws, instruments, conventions and regulations, which provides for financial autonomy at the State tier of Government;

Whereas implementation of financial autonomy of the State Legislature and State Judiciary will strengthen the institutions at the State tier of Government and make them more independent and accountable in line with the tenets of democracy as enshrined by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as Amended); and

By the power vested in me as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria under Section 5 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as Amended), which extends to the execution and maintenance of the Constitution, laws made by the National Assembly (including but not limited to Section 121(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as Amended), which guarantee financial autonomy of the State Legislature and State Judiciary.

Now, therefore, I, Muhammad Buhari, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in exercise of the power conferred on me, do hereby orders as follows-

1. Appropriation, Authorisation, Orders, Etc.(a) Without prejudice to any other applicable laws, legislations and conventions at the State tier of Government, which also provides for financial autonomy of State Legislature and State Judiciary, allocation of appropriated funds to the State Legislature and State Judiciary in the State appropriation laws in the annual budget of the State, shall be a charge upon the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State, as a First Line Charge.

(b)The Accountant-General of the Federation shall by this Order and such any other Orders, Regulations or Guidelines as may be issued by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, authorise the deduction from source in the course of Federation Accounts Allocation from the money allocated to any State of the Federation that fails to release allocation meant for the State Legislature and State Judiciary in line with the financial autonomy guaranteed by Section 121(3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as Amended).

Section 121(3) of the 1999 Constitution(as amended) provides that: Any amount standing to the credit of the  (a)House of Assembly of the State; and (b) Judiciary In the Consolidated revenue Fund of the State shall be paid directly to the said bodies respectively; in the case of the judiciary, such amount shall be paid directly to the heads of the courts concerned.

Consensus reached

Mr Tambuwal, however, noted that the governors of the 36 States on the platform of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), were unequivocally committed to the autonomy of the judiciary and the legislature.

The recent misunderstanding on the financial autonomy of the Judiciary is predicated on the need to establish an implementation framework to the 4th Alteration of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Section 121(3), said Mr Tambuwal.

What we have questioned, and we have made this known at every opportunity, is the process of implementing this provision of the Constitution.

As Governors, we will be failing in our responsibility if we refuse to draw the attention of the President, stakeholders and the country to grave concerns about the constitutionality of Executive Order 10 of 2020.

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That was the basis of the position that we took on the Executive Order 10.

The Executive Order 10 ostensibly intended to support the implementation of judicial financial autonomy, was completely unnecessary and ill advised.

 Let me at this juncture state clearly that we never questioned the right of Mr. President to issue Executive Orders. We only stated that S.121(3) did not require Presidential Executive Fiat to become implementable.

Mr Tambuwal expressed delight that consensus had finally been reached on the autonomy conundrum and opined that the strike was expected to be suspended anytime soon.

The agreement allows a period of 45 days for implementation structures to be put in place across States including the enactment of a Fund Management Law which will grant the Judiciary the power to manage its capital and recurrent expenditures in accordance with the provisions of constitution, the governor said.

Budgetary releases to the judiciary will be pro-rated based on the actual revenues recorded each month by the State government. Monthly revenue reconciliation and allocation will be presided over by a State Account Allocation Committee (SAAC) to be set up under the Fund Management Law  a similar practice to what we have at the federal level.

We hope that this will put an end to the long weeks of strike action that have seen our judicial and criminal justice system grounded to a halt. We have lost so much in the past weeks. The big takeaway is the centrality of communication, sincerity, trust and dialogue.

We have requested that the President disbands the Presidential Implementation Committee on the Autonomy of State Legislature and Judiciary, to avert future rancor between the various arms of government, arising from misconceived guidance from a committee lacking the requisite understanding of constitutional matters.

Also speaking on the subject, the Governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, stated that the issue of judicial and legislative autonomies were advantageous, saying the governors also had limitations based on constitutional provisions .

Who is to take capital spending for the judiciary and legislature has always been the controversy. The governors will continue to hold our judiciary with reverence, because I know that this democracy will not endure, if we subject our judiciary to the jackboots of the executive, Mr Fayemi said.

There is no questioning the fact that we can do a lot more for our judiciary to make it truly independent.

On the meritorious service of the retiring judge, Mr Fayemi said: We extracted Ekiti laws from the old Ondo State Laws under him.

The review of our rules of court, the Civil procedure rule and the Administration of Criminal Justice were all undertaken under his watch . He has been a blessing to Ekiti judiciary.

In his contributions, Mr Daramola said judicial autonomy was as old as the 1999 constitution, saying the section 121 (3) was simple and should be respected by state governors.

If our monies are paid directly, we will utilise it judiciously more than it were being spent for us by the executive. The governors must allow the judiciary and legislature to be run like the National Assembly, the outgoing chief judge said

Nigerian judges are the most hardworking in the world . How can our salaries be there for 15 years without upward review? This is the highest point of injustice ever.

In his submission, the Attorney General and the Commissioner for Justice, Wale Fapohunda, said the programme was targeted at rescuing the justice system from all its sicknesses.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said it had recorded 41 deliberate attacks on its facilities across the country within the last two years.

INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this at the commissions emergency meeting with security agencies under the auspices of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES).

Mr Yakubu said the attacks on the commissions facilities should now be treated as a national security emergency.

No doubt, the last few weeks have been very challenging to the commission. The spate of arson and vandalisation targeting the commissions facilities and property has become a major threat to our scheduled activities and the entire electoral process.

In the last two years, the commission has recorded a total of 41 incidents involving deliberate attacks on the commissions facilities. Nine of these incidents happened in 2019 and 21 cases in 2020.

In the last four weeks, 11 offices of the commission were either set ablaze or vandalised. Two of these incidents were caused by Boko Haram and Bandit attacks, while 10 resulted from thuggery during election and post-election violence.

However, the majority of the attacks (29 out of 41) were unrelated to election or electoral activities.

In fact, 18 of them occurred during the #EndSARS protests in October last year while 11 attacks were organised by unknown gunmen and hoodlums.

Mr Yakubu said although the commission was assessing loss of materials during recent attacks, its preliminary assessment so far indicated that it lost 1,105 ballot boxes, 694 voting cubicles, 429 electric generating sets and 13 utility vehicles (Toyota Hilux).

He said by working together with the security agencies, INEC could stop these attacks and the wanton destruction of critical electoral assets.

These attacks, which initially appeared as isolated and occasional actions, have now become more frequent and systematic, targeted at demobilising and dismantling critical electoral infrastructure in the country.

This will not only undermine the commissions capacity to organise elections and other electoral activities but will also damage the nations electoral process and democracy.

Indeed, these attacks on the commissions facilities should now be treated as a national security emergency, Mr Yakubu said.

The INEC chairman stressed the need to ramp up ICCES activities to curtail unjustifiable acts of aggression.

This will entail not only drawing on our separate and collective resources within ICCES, but also increased collaboration with citizens, communities and all stakeholders.

Mr Yakubu also stressed the need for the committee to tap into INEC facilities host communities goodwill in finding solutions to the present situation.

He said as a commission, INEC had been undertaking its own internal review of the situation and seeking answers.

He recalled that INEC met with the Resident Electoral Commissioners (REC) last week and received briefings about the rising threats.

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We are presently compiling the useful suggestions from the meeting and other internal review, which we hope to share with this body in due course.

I understand that the security agencies are doing their own individual assessments.

Beyond Election Day security, we look forward to creating a framework for an all-year round, end-to-end protection of electoral facilities under the auspices of ICCES.

Mr Yakubu expressed hope that the ICCES meeting would constitute a first step to finding a lasting solution to the current challenges, adding that to disrupt the electoral process was to undermine our democracy and destabilise the country.

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Babagana Monguno, who is also Co-Chair of ICCES, said his office was working with other agencies to collaborate with INEC to sustain Nigeria democracy and the will of the people.

As Nigerians, obviously we see a lot of activities and had lots of unwanted experiences which have affected the electoral process, activities, actions that have been carried out by non-state actors who are determined to scuttle this process which is supposed to be clean, transparent and allow the people self-determination.

Of course, we are gathered here to look at means and ways of quickly stopping the rising spate of criminality, violence and destruction as a national effort.

Of course, the Office of the NSA has always remained steadfast, resolute and unrelenting in supporting all activities of the INEC, as well as all agents of government who are compelled, not only by statutory means, to deal with anything that will disrupt what was started in 1999.

We are at hand to make sure that the peoples will be sustained, regardless of whatever happened, regardless of any individual inclinations without cause hampered by a lot of non-state actors who are determined to dislodge this effort.

I am hopeful that the outcome of this meeting will be very productive.

We should be able to make some strides toward extinguishing whatever pleased our electoral and socio-political landscape, Mr Monguno said.

The NSA encouraged all leaders of security agencies in the intelligence community to enhance efforts of operational elements that had been supporting their efforts.

The acting Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba, pledged the commitment of the police to lead in policing elections and working with other security agencies.

He also pledged that the police at the state commands would also work with INEC RECs to replicate the collaboration at state levels for peaceful elections.

Mr Baba said whatever preparation INEC had put in place for an election, if there was not adequate security before, during and after the poll, it would not be successful.
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The Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike has reportedly pledged N600 million to the Akwa Ibom State Government in support of the building of a hospital in the state.

The hospital project  Akwa Ibom State University Teaching Hospital  is located in Awa, Onna Local Government Area of the state.

Punch newspaper quoted Mr Wikes media aide, Kelvin Ebiri, as saying that the governor made the pledge on Wednesday while performing a groundbreaking ceremony for the hospital project.

The hospital project is a partnership between the Akwa Ibom Government and Bua Group which announced an initial support of N2.5 billion for the project, the Akwa Ibom State Government said in a statement.

The oil-rich Rivers State shares a boundary with Akwa Ibom, another state that is also rich in petroleum oil. Both states are ruled by the Peoples Democratic Party.

Mr Wike in January made a similar pledge of N500 million towards the rebuilding of a market destroyed by fire in Sokoto State, Nigerias North-west region.

The pledge had sparked controversy because of a lingering dispute over the non-payment of pensions and gratuity to thousands of retired civil servants in Rivers State.

The Chairperson of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners in the state, Collins Nwankwo, last December, threatened to lead his members into the street for a protest against the state government over the unpaid pensions, according to a report by Punch newspaper.

Mr Nwankwo said the pensioners had made several pleas to Mr Wike, and that the governor was just insensitive to their plight.

It is very pathetic that the usual payment of gratuities, pension arrears and death benefits which hitherto was a thing of joy, has become a source of punishment to our living pensioners and the survivors of the deceased ones.

Since the inception of the present administration in 2015, no dime has been paid in this direction and all efforts towards getting our government to consider the need to address them are never admitted. At a point, when all these efforts fail, we will embark on the protest. We will have to talk to those who will be able to walk, Mr Nwankwo said.

Governor Wikes media aide, Mr Ebiri did not respond to calls and a text message seeking comment from him.

Akwa Ibom, Niger Delta safe for investors

Mr Wike, while in Akwa Ibom, also performed a groundbreaking ceremony for Sterling Petro-Chemicals and Fertiliser Production plant in Eastern Obolo.

The governor said Akwa Ibom and Niger Delta are safe for investors.

If Akwa Ibom State is not safe, will investors come here? Investors are here because the governor has provided an enabling environment and that gives confidence to the investors. If a place is not secure for people to invest their money, we wont be here.

Dont mind the enemies of the people who will always say that Niger Delta is not safe. If it is not safe, can anyone come and invest money here? Mr Wike said.
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We want to be served. We want to be loved. We want to be in control. We want to associate with successful people, events, and stories. We want to know we are not being taken for granted. We want to know we are in the picture. That is what customers think about when they engage with your products and services. That is what they see when they walk into your banking hall, your store, click your button or use your app. Well, what do you see as the owner of the business?

The former group Chief Executive Officer of Polaris Bank did see a different vision. He foresaw the future of a bank that in the next three to five years would be one of the first five banks in Nigeria. He foresaw a full-fledged retail bank with strong digital backing. He saw a commercial bank with an underpinning for digital transformation. He had a vision of a major transformation of the bank. Five years later, that transformation occurred with the launch of Vulte, a mobile digital bank.

In July 2016, Tokunbo Abiru, the former helmsman of the bank while addressing the shareholders and 61 graduate trainees of Polaris Business School in Ibadan said that within the next five years, the newly-announced bank has the potential of becoming one of top five banks in Nigeria. He reassured that the bank can boast of a strong market share going by several transformative business initiatives. One of these initiatives is Vulte.

Actually, the trajectory of Vulte started two years ago. Now, the soup is ready. The table is set. Polaris Bank has opened its Vulte to its customers. It has given them total control. As such, the customers are now at liberty to determine how they want to be served, the way they want to be served. With the release of Vulte, Polaris has joined the league of champions. It has moved to the next rung of the ladder. It can compete as never before. With Vulte, the bank has affirmed to serve the customers better. It has admitted to making their banking experience pleasurable.

While the customers are basking in the euphoria of gaining access into the Vulte, they have the opportunity to, among other activities, open accounts, set transaction limits, verify identity documents, register biometrics, ask questions and apply for instant loans! On the loan side, this is a new vista. But the bank said the customers can determine how delightful your banking experience will be. The acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the bank, Innocent Ike corroborated this fact. He said Vulte is returning all powers to the customer as king. He emphasised that the customers are now at liberty to enjoy unhindered, contactless and refreshing banking experience at their finger-tips.

The chairman of the bank, Muhammad Ahmad said at the launch of Vulte that the goal of Polaris is to offer customers and non-customers a 24-hour seamless service. This is what led to the pursuit and actualization of Vulte. And more arrays of banking products that would cater to the varying needs of its diverse customers are coming.

Ahmad said that the opening of the Vulte was a milestone in the banks pursuit of a strong and digitally-led retail brand. Almost three years ago, he opined, the banks management was clear on the type of bank to build and the direction to go. This clarity was informed by the fast pace of change in the financial service and the apparent technology-defined outlook of banking across the world.

Meanwhile, globally, banks are working hard to make their services convenient, efficient and reliable to all customers using technology tools. Technology has placed Bank of America among the best banks for convenience. Bank of America has gone a step further in its customer service strategy by offering customers in-person education about its mobile banking tools. It has more than 3,000 digital ambassadors stationed at various branches to educate customers on how to take advantage of the banks online and mobile banking services.

Hopefully, Polaris Bank will match this customer education aspiration. But in the meantime, its customers are happy. They have the steering wheel. They are in control of their banking needs. Writing on the Appstore page, the customers paid glowing tributes to Vulte mobile banking platform. Engineer Peter Michael wrote that digital banking is not about the goodness and smoothness of transactions. Instead, we are talking about security, interface communication, navigation and alignment of options.

The other users Paul Muraina shared his experience about on boarding, which he said was seamless without a need to visit the brick and mortar branch to complete the process, and Suleman Usman simply wrote deep, rich contents. No failed transactions. User-friendly. Matthew Onje wrote that Vulte is simply digital banking on the go. Bravo to the developers. Praizeville Blast, one of the users, explained that Vulte banking platform was awesome. This is one of a kind and the best from Polaris to its customers, he wrote.

The Chief Digital Officer of Polaris Bank, Bamidele Adeyinka said Vulte will transform everything that happens in the brick and mortar space to clicks and buttons. The Vulte comes in mobile (Android and iOS) and web applications. It allows customers to access banking services at the click of the button. On-boarded customers can access PayDay loans on the mobile and web digital platform where eligibility will be displayed to the customer within the Vulte application.

To walk into the Vulte and be served like a king, take two steps. Provide your BVN. Take a selfie. Your face will be compared automatically with the picture you have on your BVN profile. This is possible through a facial recognition tool. It is an advanced cognitive and artificial intelligence facial recognition technology. It is one of the ways Polaris Bank opens its Vulte and gives power to the customers. It is the Polaris Banks edge. Isnt it attractive? Isnt that what you want? To be served like a king?

Rarzack Olaegbe wrote from Lagos.
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A segment of the Ijaw ethnic group in Ondo State has condemned the state governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, over the adoption of the Oodua anthem across secondary schools in the state.

The Arogbo Ijaw Patriots, a body of the Ijaw minority in Ondo State, in a statement to PREMIUM TIMES on Wednesday, also alleged the governor of imposing Yoruba anthem for the conduct of a promotion examination for senior civil servants with little or no consideration for the diversity of the people in the state.

The groups complaint is coming exactly 20 days after Mr Akeredolu, in a memo signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ondo State Teaching Service Commission, Tolu Adeyemi, made the anthem compulsory to be sung in all secondary schools in Ondo State.

It was absurd and rather disturbing that the Governor would make it compulsory for Oodua or Ondo anthem (in Yoruba) to be sung in all secondary schools in the Ondo State where there are indigenous Ijaws, the groups Coordinator and Secretary, Fidelis Soriwei and Bibisa Kekemeke, said in the statement.

In their argument, the duo admitted Ijaw minority status in the state but opined that they do not deserve inclusion in such a step since they speak their own language in consonance with their distinct ethnicity as an Ijaw minority and would like to keep that identity.

The group added that while it is not opposed to agitations of whatever form, it will, however, resist any compulsion attempts to make them an assimilated Yoruba race.

The leadership of the Ondo State Civil Service took further steps in the abuse of the law to ask people including Arogbo Ijaws to sing the anthem in a promotion interview at the Governors Office Civil Service Matters, the group further alleged as it enjoined Mr Akeredolu to ensure fairness and respect the right of the minority ethnic group in the race.

The aboriginal status of the Ijaws in Nigeria extends through Bayelsa, Delta, Rivers, Edo, Akwa Ibom and Ondo States.

However, Arogbo Ijaw in Ondo State, until 2018, was without a king for 11 years due to the kingship crisis which was eventually resolved by Mr Akeredolu, a man now accused of infringement.

The Ondo State governors spokesperson, Olabode Olatunde, in a phone interview with PREMIUM TIMES on Wednesday afternoon, said the anthem in question is not an Oodua Anthem as presented by the group to the public.

This issue in question was first raised in February and we have addressed it, he said, also raising suspicion that the group in question were sponsored by some quarters to discredit and distract Mr Akeredolu.

Mr Olatunde dismissed any wrongdoing by his boss and denied the allegation of unfair treatment levelled against him by the Arogbo Ijaw minority group in the statement.

The intention of adopting the Ondo State Anthem is to promote the tradition and culture of the Yoruba race.

This clarification is necessary in order to avoid misinterpretation, misconception and outright misunderstanding of the aim of the state government, Mr Olatunde said in another dated March 5, in response to the issue.
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Two All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship aspirants in Ikorodu Local Government, Lagos State, have agreed on a joint ticket ahead of the partys council election primaries on Saturday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that one of the APC chairmanship aspirants, Jimoh Azeez, on Monday announced that he was stepping down for Folashade Olabanji-Oba ahead of the partys primaries on Saturday.

NAN reports that Mrs Olabanji-Oba is the incumbent vice-chairman of Ikorodu Local Government.

Addressing journalists after a closed-door meeting with Mrs Olabanji-Oba and other APC leaders in Ikorodu, Mr Azeez said he had been offered the position of vice-chairman, if elected.

According to him, he agreed to put aside his personal ambitions in order to work together for the development of the community.

There are times in life when we must put our personal interest aside and work together for the development of our community.

Today is one of those days; now we have made up our minds to come together and work for the common good of Ikorodu Local Government.

Together we shall look at every challenge faced by our people and look for solutions by bringing capable hands to the table.

We will campaign collectively and render solutions to every loopholes in Ikorodu Local Government, Mr Azeez said.

Mr Azeez, popularly called Oloshugbo, described Mrs Olabanji-Oba as a strong voice for women in and out of Ikorodu over the years.

Also speaking after the meeting held at Eroz Place Hotel, Ikorodu, Mrs Olabanji-Oba said that the alliance of both brilliant minds was necessary for the development of Ikorodu community.

Our merger was borne out of our already planned individual agenda which exhibit similar traits.

It is time for us in Ikorodu to look beyond our political ambitions and see similar reasons to advance this great community of ours.

We know the strength in working together and that is why we have decided to join forces for the interest of a greater good of Ikorodu Local Government, Mrs Olabanji-Oba said.

Both Messrs Olabanji-Oba and Azeez then urged their supporters to work together for the joint ticket during Saturdays APC primaries so as to emerge victorious.

(NAN)
The Ekiti State Government has directed the authorities of Moba Local Government to stop the monthly salaries of the Obasaoye of Isaoye Ekiti, Gabriel Olajide, for abandoning his royal duties and refusal to appear or live in the town for over three years.

The Deputy Governor, Bisi Egbeyemi, gave the directive on Thursday in Ado Ekiti, during a meeting he held with traditional rulers and other stakeholders from the community.

Members of Isaoye Ekiti community had written a petition to the state government, where they had accused Mr Olajide of abdicating his throne, as well as other acts of misconduct.

The state government was said to have received a security report from the State Security Services(SSS), stating that there was the likelihood of violence over conflict between the monarch and his chiefs who accused him of highhandedness and disrespect for the towns tradition.

The report, it was gathered, informed the meeting where the aggrieved chiefs brought their grievances.

Speaking on behalf of the chiefs, the Obaisa of Isaoye, Joseph Ogidi, said that Mr Olajide, who ascended the throne in 2017, had abandoned the community and had failed to yield to governments directive issued at a meeting presided over by the Deputy Governor on November 17, 2018 that he should resume his official duties.

The community in its petition to the state government demanded the dethronement of Mr Olajide for allegedly sponsoring attacks on his subjects, abandonment of his throne, violation of the towns cultural heritage, destruction of the shrines and artefacts, using the police to harass his subjects, refusal to participate in cultural and traditional practices which he claimed are against his faith and refusal to appear in the town for over three years.

The petition also accused Mr Olajide of using his connection as a police officer to cause the arrest and detention of his subjects by the men of the Nigerian Police.

Mr Ogidi had earlier told the Deputy Governor that Mr Olajides latest refusal to allow Abiola Adeyeye, the Eyebasa of Isaoye, to hold a feast in honour of the chiefs had threatened the peace of the community and could snowball into crisis if there was no prompt government intervention.

He explained that every appeal to the monarch to heed the governments directive last issued in November 2018 to return home and perform his royal duties and provide day-to-day leadership to the community had fallen on deaf ears.

Mr Ogidi disclosed that the Moba Traditional Council presided over by the immediate past Oore of Otun Ekiti, Adedapo Popoola, failed to convince Mr Olajide to back down from his hard line stance against his subjects which compelled them to officially request for his dethronement by the state government.

Responding to the allegations, Mr Olajide admitted that he had abandoned his domain for the fear of the unknown and maintained that he would would not change his position.

He claimed that the people of the town had denied him access to the palace.

The Deputy Governor, Mr Egbeyemi, wondered why Mr Olajide refused to perform his official duties as a traditional ruler for over three years despite governments intervention in the conflict with his subjects.

He said the monarch lacked the moral justification to be collecting salaries for duties not rendered.

Mr Egbeyemi subsequently directed Moba Local Government to stop the monthly salaries of the Obasaoye with immediate effect.

He also directed that Mrs Adeyeye should go ahead with her Iwuye ceremony as the Eyebasa having been appointed since 2010 and in line with the wishes of the community.

The Deputy Governor, however, declined the communitys request for Mr Olajides dethronement, saying the application to that effect is already before the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers which is expected to make appropriate recommendations to the state government.

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You were enthroned as the king of your town and you have not stayed in that town for the past three years and you are using the police to arrest the people you are supposed to be leading as an Oba  Mr Egbeyemi noted.

You know I told you since 2018 that if you prefer your police duty to the throne, the choice is yours and you can leave it and face your police duty but your functions as an Oba must not suffer because your community needs you.

You said you cant perform sacrifices and participate in rituals. If you cant do it, you will have problems with your people. This government does want your town to dethrone you. How can you be made an Oba and you run away from the throne?

You stay outside and you unleash the police on your people. The person that wants to hold a feast for the chiefs (Eyebasa) to mark her chieftaincy you stopped her from doing so.

Chiefs, let the woman hold her Iwuye ceremony because the government has spoken. But I dont want your Oba to be dethroned, but his salary must be stopped because he should not collect money for the work he has not done.
Honourable Madam President,

Honourable Prime Minister,

Honourable Speaker of the Parliament,

Honourable Ministers, Members of the Government,

Honourable Members of Parliament,

Distinguished Guests,

Excellencies, Members of the Diplomatic Corps,

Dear Georgian Friends,

Ladies and Gentlemen!

It is my great honour to address you today, at Freedom Square in Tbilisi. This day is such an important holiday as it commemorates the Declaration of Independence of 1918. At the time, the Georgian nation made a fundamental choice - it opted for self-determination, for freedom, and for democracy.

See also: President tells Georgians Poland will back their EU, NATO bid Even though Bolshevik Russia, with its aggression, thwarted the dreams of a modern and independent Georgian state just a few years later, the memory of those momentous events has been permanently engraved in the collective memory of the nation. Therefore, at the point of the collapse of the Soviet Union, several decades later, Georgians knew exactly that they wanted independence, that they wanted their own state. And this is why, in 2021, we are also able to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Georgia's independence.

Commemorating these events makes me realise how very close, indeed fraternal, are the relations between the Georgian people and the Poles. Although Warsaw and Tbilisi are more than 2 000 kilometres apart, there are few countries and nations as close to each other as ours. We share the same values. The most important of them being love of freedom and love of sovereignty. These values have been deeply etched into our souls for centuries.

After 1921, Georgian emigres, members of the Georgian elite of the time, contributed enormously to the life of Poland as it was reborn in 1918. We all remember perfectly well the name of Saint Grigol Peradze - an eminent scholar and theologian, a lecturer at the University of Warsaw, chaplain of Georgian diaspora in Poland, who perished in the Auschwitz concentration camp at the hands of the German Nazis. To this day Grigol Peradze continues to be the only saint among the lecturers of the University of Warsaw. Georgian officers, who joined the ranks of the Polish Army wrote a splendid chapter in our common history. It is now 100 years since the first cadets and officers from Georgia availed themselves of the opportunity to serve under contract in the Polish Army. Georgians soon established a reputation for their military prowess and heroism, and their devotion and loyalty to Poland was amply demonstrated during the dramatic years of World War 2.

I pay homage to the Georgian heroes who were fighting and falling in defence of our Home Country in September 1939, and who battled and died in the Warsaw Uprising, as well as to the Georgian victims of the Soviet massacre of Katyn, murdered alongside Polish officers.

In 2007, the Presidents of our two countries unveiled a memorial to Georgian officers in the Polish army located at Freedom Park of the Warsaw Uprising Museum. We shall always hold them in grateful memory.

Dear Friends,

We, the Poles and the Georgians, mutually recognise and invariably respect this great and deep love of freedom. Time and again we fought together 'for your freedom and ours'. We should remember, however, that the freedom we have achieved is not given once and for all.

As my great compatriot, Saint John Paul II, proclaimed, freedom is given to man, but it is also 'assigned' to him, and we must, therefore, cherish and protect it with the utmost sense of responsibility. I believe that this is equally true for states and nations. Unfortunately, there are also countries which behave and think in entirely different terms, and which define their freedom by dominating others and depriving them by force of their freedom.

The late President of the Republic of Poland, Lech Kaczynski, was well aware of this. During his heroic mission, on August 12, 2008, he made a speech just a few hundred metres from here - in front of the Parliament building - shortly after the invasion of Georgia by Russian troops had begun.

On that day, he said: "This is the first time since long that our neighbours to the north, and for us also to the north and east, have shown a face that we have known for hundreds of years. These neighbours believe that the nations around them should be under their control. We say no! This country is Russia. This country believes that the old days of the empire that collapsed less than 20 years ago are returning, and that domination will once again be the hallmark of this region. Well, it will not. Those days are over once and for all.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Dear Georgian Friends,

Thirteen years have passed since that day, a long 13 years for us, though only 13 years for history. And still we cannot allow for any country in the 21st century to continue its imperial and aggressive policy with no respect for international law. In order to counteract this, we must safeguard the strength of international institutions and insist on solidarity between states. Our unity and solidarity must stand in the way of any imperial march!

This is why I am here with you today and I would like to reiterate, loud and clear, that there is enough room in the United Europe and in the NATO to accommodate our friends from the eastern part of Europe, to accommodate: Georgia, Ukraine or Moldova.

In particular, given the current situation, European Union's 'open door policy' and NATO 'open door policy' must be upheld.

I would like to emphasise that you always have a dependable ally in Poland and in the Polish people, an ally who will use all their abilities to stand up for Georgia and to promote Georgia's integration into Euro-Atlantic structures.

We know from experience how much effort is required for reforms and that the path towards the European Union and the NATO is a difficult one, and that it often seems to stretch on endlessly. Several days ago, we celebrated the 17th anniversary of our country's accession to the EU, and in retrospect I can say that the final stretch often turned out to be just another bend, after which we had to summon up more strength to eventually reach the desired finish line.

With the benefit of hindsight, however, I can assure you that every step, even though it required profound reforms, was worth it. That is why I appeal, as your friend, to persevere on the path of reform and to uphold European standards.

We must remember, and everyone should do so, above all in the West, right there in the countries of the EU, particularly the so-called old Union, that European culture has been part and parcel of local civilisation for millennia. This is where ancient culture flourished, and this is your Georgian legacy.

This European culture today is about respect for fundamental values such as democracy, human rights, freedom of speech and the right of assembly. When we speak of a common Europe, we must also have regard for these values, and we must do our utmost to ensure that they are respected both by law and by the authorities.

Dear Georgian Friends, Ladies and Gentlemen, Distinguished Guests,

Freedom, independence, democracy, respect and solidarity underpin our cooperation.

Georgians, we look forward to seeing you in the united Europe, for you have been part of its heritage for centuries.

Georgians, we are awaiting you in NATO, because you are a proud and brave nation which deserves to be secure and to be able to build its prosperity in peace.

Let me reiterate that in Poland you have a friend who will continue to support you on this path. And as the great Shota Rustaveli once put it, centuries ago, 'there is nothing more precious in the world than a faithful friend'.
Climate activists have landed three big wins and gained influence over some of the world's largest oil companies.

Sophisticated environmental activism has celebrated big wins in the past 24 hours with Exxon forced to give board seats, whilst Shell and Chevron are having their transition plans intensely scrutinised and potentially rewritten.

An activist fund, called Engine No.1, won the board seats at Exxons annual shareholder meeting on Wednesday. It owns only 0.02% of Exxons shares but won over sufficient number other shareholders in the vote.

Engine No.1 wants Exxon, Americas largest oil company, to move away from fossil fuels.

In all, the activist fund put forward four board nominations and it had the backing of a number of large pension funds, including Blackrock which owns a 6.6% Exxon stake.

The US oiler needs directors with experience in successful and profitable energy industry transformations, according to Engine No.1.

Elsewhere, Chevron shareholders voted in favour of a proposal for the company to target reduction in the emissions created by its customers (rather than just those resulting from its own operations).

Some 61% of shareholder votes came in favour of the proposal despite the executive management recommending shareholders vote against.

At the same time, requests for reports on the impact that a significant cut in fossil-fuel demand and political lobbying were both denied by narrow votes.

Earlier in the day, PLC ( ) lost a landmark case brought forward by seven activist groups, including Greenpeace and Friends of the Earth Netherlands, to challenge its climate strategy.

The Dutch Court of The Hague ordered the FTSE 100 group to reduce CO2 emissions by 45% by the end of 2030 compared to 2019 levels. The 45% reduction also includes 'scope 3' emissions, meaning those from burning Shell's gas and oil.

Before being taken to court by the activists, the company had previously pledged to cut the emissions of the products it sells by 20% over the same time period, as well as setting a net-zero goal by 2050.

The case was filed in 2019 on behalf of more than 17,000 Dutch citizens on the basis that the oiler is threatening human rights by investing in fossil fuels.

As campaigners move from picket lines and social media into boardrooms evidently the landscape is shifting, what precisely it will mean operationally for these supermajor hydrocarbon companies remains to be seen.

Lucy Coutts, investment director at JM Finn, said the day's events were undoubtedly a step change for the oil majors. It is unprecedented that courts can now dictate the corporate strategy of a major emitter of greenhouse gasses, with the court labelling Shell as 'partly responsible' for climate change. These are incredibly strong words.

ExxonMobil was an even bigger story, Coutts said.

Once the worlds most valuable company, it now has been forced to give up two board seats to a small activist hedge fund investor with the potential for a third once all votes are counted. Engine No. 1, has made its intention clear; to push the company to look beyond oil and gas development, claiming that it is an existential risk.

She added: It was notable that Darren Woods, the CEO of ExxonMobil, last week told shareholders not to vote for the activist investor for fear that it would derail the companys progress, and dividend. Given that the company is laden with debt to pay dividends, he should probably listen to his shareholders a little bit more.

To echo Larry Fink, climate risk is definitely investment risk, and yesterday was a very, very big day for this.
Sterling Heights, MI (48312)

Today

Some sun this morning with increasing clouds this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 86F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies this evening will give way to occasional showers overnight. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
Now that COVID-19 cases are declining and the majority of Minnesotans have received vaccinations, what activities are you most looking forward to resuming this summer?

You voted:
PLATTSBURGH [mdash] Anthony Tarricone, 94, of Plattsburgh, passed away Monday in his home with his loving wife by his side and under the care of hospice. He was born in Yonkers on Aug. 13, 1926, the son of George and Nancy Tarricone. He graduated Horton High School in Yonkers. He also gradua
According to the agreement, Antaisolar will supply 2GW solar racking to OSW from 2021 to 2024.

"We're proud to achieve this milestone of 2GW cooperation agreement with OSW on our 15th anniversary. OSW has been deeply involved in Australia for many years and was awarded one of Australia's fastest-growing Top 500 private companies in 2019. We're excited to joint with OSW as it's a vital opportunity to drive greater growth and accelerate local energy transition," said Jasmine Huang, Antaisolar's president.

"Antaisolar has been our valued partner and widely recognized by its high quality products and all-around service. The strategic partnership will enhance the advantages possessed by both parties in the solar power industry, allowing complementary efforts for fueling the transition to a low carbon economy," said Anson Zhang, OSW's CEO.

Strategic partnership with Paramount Group

Antaisolar has partnered with Paramount on a 40MW utility solar project earlier this year. Bangladesh is the best option for establishing cooperation as it's becoming a hotspot for the solar industry. The agreement calls for further cooperation in solar racking portfolios for thriving utility sector. Through the collaboration, Paramount and Antaisolar will team up to promote the energy transition in Bangladesh.

Antaisolar's 15th anniversary was injected with fresh impetus by the two strategic cooperation agreements. With the vision of "Backbone for Solar World", Antaisolar will joint with global partners to achieve carbon-neutrality and heading to the next 15 years.

About Antaisolar:

Antaisolar, established in 2006, has a vast expertise in Solar Mounting & Tracking System with over 800 employees including a R&D team composed of 80 specialists. Antaisolar has been continuously optimizing the global service by globally setting up over 20 branches and offices.

Up to now, its cumulative solar racking shipments have reached 15GW and ranked No.1 of export volume to Japan for seven consecutive years and ranked top 1 in Australian and Vietnam distribution market.

Contact:

www.antaisolar.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1519891/Antaisolar_online_signing_ceremony.jpg

SOURCE Antaisolar
- Launch of Southern Europe headquarters in Barcelona, Spain adds to its existing Engineering Hub in Porto, Portugal

- Checkout.com powers leading merchants including Glovo, Farfetch, Mango, Veepee, Fintonic, Blueground, XE.gr and Freshly Cosmetics

- eCommerce penetration rate in Spain expected to grow 25% by 2024[1], demonstrating growth opportunities for local and global merchants

LONDON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Checkout.com, a leading cloud payment provider, announced the launch of their Barcelona office to serve as a headquarters for operations across Southern European markets, including Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece.

Europe is the home market for Checkout.com, which already serves as the payment provider for many of the region's leading eCommerce businesses like Mango, Farfetch, Glovo and Klarna. These merchants rely on Checkout.com for a fast and agile platform that drives better performance and increased acceptance rates. This announcement represents an even stronger commitment to Europe, as the company deepens its service to the region.

The global COVID-19 crisis has accelerated the adoption of eCommerce across the region.

Pre-Pandemic Southern Europe already demonstrated a material eCommerce opportunity with eCommerce adoption rates in Spain (58%), Italy (52%) and Greece (50%). Meanwhile, expectations are that penetration in future years will outpace other regions in Europe, as the level of eCommerce adoption still lags behind the UK's 82% and Germany's 71%. eCommerce penetration statistics clearly show a growing and underserved market. Checkout.com's continued investment in the region will support local enterprises with better performing online payments and improved digital checkout experiences as more consumers turn to online purchasing.

Antoine Nougue, Head of Europe at Checkout.com, said: "'Think global, act local' is at the heart of our expansion proposition for global enterprises. Our local team across Southern Europe has deep insight and knowledge for those merchants wanting to expand and grow. We've witnessed explosive growth across the region, with more merchants investing in their eCommAerce strategies to serve an emerging online market segment."

Nougue continues: "The localisation of our proposition to the market removes payments as a barrier to scale for fast-growing online businesses, allowing them to unlock more revenue opportunities and serve customers a frictionless checkout experience."

Florian Jensen, Global Fraud and Payments Director at Glovo, said: "As one of the world's leading multi-category delivery players, with millions of users across 20 markets worldwide, a localised proposition is imperative to our success. Checkout.com's global payments routing platform has enabled us to optimise our card processing in existing markets and expand into new territories with speed and ease. Their growth mindset and agile platform make them the perfect payments partner for a global scaling company like Glovo."

Expansion opportunities

Southern European countries have seen rolling lockdowns and restrictions for more than a year. While many of these countries are seeing eased restrictions, eCommerce adoption is expected to continue accelerating, with growth projected at 17% to 153 million customers in the next three years. Spain is anticipated to have the highest growth rate, with 35 million customers turning to online services by 2024, representing a 25% increase -- on par with the highest growth markets, such as China. This growth is expected to equate to a 66% increase in eCommerce revenues hitting $28.7bn.

Jonathan G. Rambal, General Director of Southern Europe at Checkout.com, said: "The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital payments across the region of Southern Europe, with an overnight digitalisation for some enterprises and an acceleration for others. Checkout.com 's growing presence in the region serves to support enterprise merchants through this digital transformation, with a best in class payment platform and on-the-ground market experts to reach new domestic and international customers ."

Apostolos Foteinakis, Chief Financial Officer at Blueground, said: "As a global proptech startup with customers spread across 15 cities worldwide, we rely on the support of strategic technology partners like Checkout.com. Their flexible, global payments platform aligns perfectly with our business model  enabling people to flexibly live wherever they choose to across our thousands of quality, turnkey homes. Through a single integration and with a range of interfaces, we've been able to create a simple payment experience for our customers, anywhere, anytime. The expert support we have received so far, especially in complex regions such as MENA, demonstrates that Checkout.com is the right strategic partner to support growing businesses."

Checkout.com has a team of more than 1,100 people globally and 20 employees across its Porto and Barcelona offices and expects to double over the next 12 months in the Southern European region. For more information about Checkout.com's services in Southern Europe, please email [email protected].

About Checkout.com:

Checkout.com empowers businesses to adapt and innovate. The company's technology makes payments seamless. Flexible solutions, granular data, and instant insights help global enterprises launch new products in new markets and create outstanding customer experiences. Checkout.com provides the fastest, most reliable payments in more than 150 currencies, with in-country acquiring, world-class fraud filters and reporting through one API. Checkout.com can accept all major international credit and debit cards, as well as popular alternative and local payment methods. The company launched in 2012 and now has a team of over 1,100 people across 18 offices worldwide, offering local expertise where it's needed. Find out more at www.checkout.com .

1, Source: Statista Digital Market Outlook 2020

Enlaces relacionados

https://www.checkout.com



SOURCE Checkout.com
- The new entity will primarily support the aerospace & defense industry in the United States

CINCINNATI, May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- QuEST Global, a global product engineering and lifecycle services company, announced the launch of its subsidiary, QuEST Defense Systems & Solutions (QDSS). Based out of Cincinnati, Ohio, QDSS will primarily focus on supporting the aerospace & defense industry in the United States and will operate independently in accordance with the US industrial security rules and a Special Security Agreement (SSA) with the US Government. The company will partner with several strategic players in the defense industry, helping them solve industry challenges by accelerating product design & development, supporting efficient production and supply chains, and providing product lifecycle solutions.

To support its customers in aerospace and defense, QDSS is planning to hire more than 1000 engineers in the next five years. The new entity's core competencies cuts across the product life cycle and include design, high-fidelity engineering analysis in the areas of computational fluid dynamics, heat transfer analysis, and structural finite element analysis, software/firmware development and verification, supply chain, operations, and manufacturing engineering, Engineering Process Services (EPS), and aftermarket and sustainment engineering. In addition, the QDSS team brings a strong presence in digital technologies, including software application development, data analytics, cybersecurity, and implementation of the digital thread into the engineering process.

Built upon the legacy of more than two decades of expertise in providing product engineering services, QuEST Defense aims at becoming the trusted thinking partner for its customers by evaluating and delivering results that exceed customer expectations. Through long-lasting strategic partnerships and higher value solutions, QuEST is committed to supporting its customers and helping them maximize value for their contract spending.

"QDSS will bring to the defense industry the same focus on engineering excellence and efficiency that QuEST Global's commercial customers enjoy. Our customers will benefit from reduced costs and on-time performance that would translate into improved cost, schedule, and performance in the systems delivered to our ultimate consumers - America's fighting forces," said Page Hoeper, Board Chairman  QuEST Defense Services and Solution.

Steve Gerber, President, and CEO of QuEST Defense, said, "With the launch of our US-based defense enterprise, we aim to continue providing our product engineering expertise to organizations in the aerospace and defense sector. Through our deep domain knowledge in the aerospace and defense industry, as well as our speed and flexibility in addressing difficult technical problems, QDSS is uniquely positioned to support our customers in the US Defense sector."

Ajit Prabhu, Chairman & CEO, QuEST Global, said, "Over the past two decades, we have been at the forefront of the convergence of Mechanical, Electronics, Software, and Digital Engineering Innovations. As a trusted thinking partner to our customers, we have been enabling them to get more done with their available engineering budget and help them focus on executing core processes to develop next-generation products. With the launch of QuEST Defense Systems and Solutions, our US-based subsidiary, we will be able to partner with the US government contractors in the Defense sector and apply our proven track record and strong expertise to help them solve their engineering problems."

About QuEST Global

For more than 20 years, QuEST Global has been a trusted global product engineering and lifecycle services partner to many of the world's most recognized companies in the Aerospace & Defense, Automotive, Energy, Hi-Tech, Medical Devices, Rail, and Semiconductor industries. With a presence in 13 countries, 56 global delivery centers, and 11,250+ personnel, QuEST Global is at the forefront of the convergence of the mechanical, electronics, software, and digital engineering innovations to engineer solutions for a safer, cleaner, and sustainable world. QuEST Global's deep domain knowledge and digital expertise help its clients accelerate product development and innovation cycles, create alternate revenue streams, enhance consumer experience and make manufacturing processes and operations more efficient.

SOURCE QuEST Global
ROCKVILLE, Md., May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) Certification Academy under Inteleos announced a pilot project with MedGlobal and the Global Ultrasound Institute as the selection of their MissionPOCUS project for 2021. As the fourth MissionPOCUS project since the initiative's inception in 2018, Inteleos' MissionPOCUS will award these organizations a joint grant that will establish an innovative education program to assess the feasibility of training healthcare providers in POCUS remotely. The program will employ POCUS to address respiratory pathologies in rural clinics of Bangladesh, ultimately enhancing clinical decision making, improving resource utilization, and optimizing patient health outcomes.

The site of the training program is the difficult to access Rohingya Refugee Camp in the district of Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh. There, the refugee population stands at roughly 1 million and is at high risk from communicable disease and early death. "This is one of the most vulnerable communities of people on the planet, and respiratory illness is among the most dangerous for children and elderly in this population. The opportunity to have a clinician make confident, rapid, and accurate diagnoses in the Camp will completely change the quality of care. With POCUS, providers can treat onsite instead of transferring or referring out- which saves lives," said Kevin Bergman, Founder, Global Ultrasound Institute.

The 2021 MissionPOCUS project emulates the commitment of the POCUS Certification Academy to lay the foundation for greater integration and utilization of POCUS in rural regions and developing countries. For more information about MissionPOCUS or this pilot program, visit pocus.org/MissionPOCUS.

About Inteleos

Inteleos is a non-profit certification organization that delivers rigorous assessments and cultivates a global community of professionals dedicated to the highest standards in healthcare and patient safety, representing over 117,000 certified medical professionals throughout the world. The POCUS Certification Academy, under Inteleos, offers rigorous clinical certification, POCUS education and training packages, and community building opportunities for clinicians in over 100 countries. The POCUS Certification Academy allows healthcare providers to demonstrate their ultrasound skills and abilities, assess their proficiency, and promote best practices in POCUS.

MedGlobal is a humanitarian and health non-governmental organization (NGO) working to serve vulnerable communities around the world by providing innovative, free, and sustainable healthcare. Our health services support refugees, displaced persons, and other marginalized communities in conflict-affected and low-resource settings around the world.

Global Ultrasound Institute (GUSI) is community of expert POCUS educators and practitioners who are passionate about sharing their craft globally. As leaders in POCUS education, GUSI has trained over 1,000 residents and attending physicians from 15 countries to date. They are joined by 30+ POCUS instructors representing specialties as diverse as internal medicine, family medicine, emergency medicine, pediatrics, cardiology, critical care, pre-hospital/EMS, global health, and more.

SOURCE Inteleos
PHILADELPHIA, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Aberdeen Standard Global Infrastructure Income Fund (the "Fund") (NYSE: ASGI) held its Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the "Meeting") on May 27, 2021. At the Meeting, shareholders of the Fund voted to re-elect one Class I Trustee to the Board of Directors.

As of the record date, April 12, 2021, the Fund had outstanding 8,855,000 shares of common stock. 79.98% of outstanding common stock were voted representing a quorum.

The description of the proposal and number of shares voted at the Meeting are as follows:

To elect one Class I Trustee to the Board of Directors:



Votes For Votes Withheld John Sievwright 7,049,907 32,710

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 (NAV) of the fund's portfolio. There is no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective.

If you wish to receive this information electronically, please contact [email protected]

aberdeenasgi.com

SOURCE Aberdeen Standard Global Infrastructure Income Fund
NEW YORK, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Advanced Welding School (AWS) today announced the close of $25 million in growth financing to drive the expansion of their Income Share Agreement program. The Louisiana-based company trains students from a diverse set of backgrounds to become world-class welding professionals in one of leading welding markets in the US. AWS plans to increase access to their elite program through the use of Income Share Agreements. These incentive-aligned financing products demonstrate Advanced Welding School's dedication to exceptional student outcomes.

To power their Income Share Agreement offering, AWS has made the switch from Meratas to Leif, the Tuition Finance Management Platform. Leif works with industry leading education providers who deliver exceptional outcomes and create upward career mobility for students across a variety of fields. Leif's outcomes-aligned tuition financing solutions help education providers maximize their program's growth and impact potential by removing barriers to entry.

Richard Hope, founder and CEO at Advanced Welding School, commented: "Incentive-aligned financing embodies our mission to transform students of all backgrounds into dynamic and highly skilled welders. We decided to switch to Leif because they are the market's only full service Program Manager, enabling us to secure captive and scalable ISA financing, while also delivering the best school and student experience. Leif's expertise made structuring, launching and financing our ISA program a smooth experience for AWS and our students. We are thrilled to finally offer this product to our students."

"Leif is committed to partnering with the best education providers across a diverse set of in-demand job readiness verticals to maximize their impact by leveraging outcomes-aligned tuition financing in all its forms," remarked Jeffrey Groeber, Founder & CEO of Leif. "Advanced Welding School shares this vision and has an extensive track record of delivering truly impressive student outcomes. For this reason, we were thrilled by the opportunity to partner with AWS and increase access to vocational and skilled trades training."

About Advanced Welding School:

Advanced Welding School was founded in 2017 by Richard Hope, a professional welder with over 40 years of experience in the field. After teaching welding at a Louisiana community college, he realized the need for improvement in the current welding educational system. AWS was born to create a more comprehensive and effective curriculum, allowing students to get certified and enter the workforce immediately after completing their training. Advanced Welding School is constantly striving to provide any individual who wants to change their lives through a welding education an opportunity to do so.

About Leif:

Leif is a technology company dedicated to increasing access to quality and affordable education. The company has developed an end-to-end platform that enables the design, origination, and program management of Income Share Agreement programs. As the infrastructure layer that powers the incentive-aligned tuition finance ecosystem, Leif partners with schools to provide students with an outcomes-oriented form of education finance.

SOURCE Leif

Related Links

http://leif.org


Business travel is a major earner for the flag carriers such as IAGs British Airways and Iberia

British Airways owner IAG ( ) said is hopeful that a corridor between the UK and US will be open by the end of June.

Luis Gallego, IAGs chief executive, said the US should be on the UKs green list of countries due to its high rate of vaccinations.

Even then, Gallego does not expect business travel to recover quickly to pre-pandemic levels, with sees passenger numbers 15% below levels before the virus in 2023/24 when airlines expect other parts of air travel to be back at 2019 levels.

Business travel is a major earner for the flag carriers such as IAGs British Airways and Iberia, with the transatlantic routes especially lucrative.

Speaking to an online travel webinar, Gallego added that the squeeze on international travel is likely to lead to more consolidation within the sector with between two and three dominant carriers on each continent.

IAG would play a part in this, he added, as some of the weaker airlines will not survive given the huge amount of debt the industry has taken on to get through the pandemic.

Some won't survive: there will be opportunities for consolidation we'll participate in," Gallego told the webinar.

IAGs rivals meanwhile again called for an overhaul of the UK governments traffic light system, saying that cant go through another ruined summer.

Bosses from easyJet, Jet2, Tui, Loganair and Manchester Airports Group (MAG) wrote to the prime minister yesterday to repeat their view that the government is being too cautious with its flight resumption programme.

Johan Lundgren, EasyJets CEO, said: All the data supports the fact that much of Europe could be opened up to safe travel.

It is counterintuitive, given the success of the vaccination programme, that the UK has the most-restrictive system.
"Airspace Link acts like the Google Maps (Waze) for drones, but the roads, rules and regulations are not in place yet" Tweet this

Also completing the series A raise alongside Altos Ventures is Thales, leading provider of air traffic management systems which manage 40% of the world's airspace, and a global technology leader with operations in more than 68 countries. Thales generated 18.5 billion (EUR) in revenues in 2020 and is the eighth largest defense contractor in the world.

"As Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) usage continues to grow, for safe, low altitude operations around communities, airspace management must combine both air and ground insights," said Todd Donovan, Thales Vice President, Airspace Mobility Solutions Americas. "Our deep knowledge of airspace management and Airspace Link's expertise in geospatial intelligence are the perfect combination to address this complex challenge."

Before this 2021 raise, Airspace Link secured investments from previous Investors, Indicator Ventures, 2048 Ventures, Ludlow Ventures, Matchstick Ventures, Techstars and Dan Gilbert's Detroit Venture Partners (DVP).

"Airspace Link acts like the Google Maps (Waze) for drones, but the roads, rules and regulations are not in place yet," CEO Michael Healander said. Airspace Link's FAA-approved Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability platform is a transportation planning tool for integrating drones into the national airspace and our communities. The platform is being used by state and local government transportation groups to prepare, plan, build, manage and engage the drone community.

Earlier this month, Airspace Link took part in the first multi-modal transport demonstration in Ohio using ground and air autonomous vehicles. The mission which was led by VyrtX, a logistics software provider, and JobsOhio, entailed the delivery of blood tubes, vessels and tissues using a small Unmanned Aircraft System meeting up with a larger autonomous helicopter at KOSU airport, which transported the first 3-D printed kidney on a perfusion device to KMRT airport in Marysville, Ohio. Airspace Link's AirHub solution offered the digital infrastructure to ensure safety of the operation by facilitating the authorization for the on-airport portion of the UAS operation and to compute the safest route for the longer leg of the transport to KMRT. Airspace Link's digital infrastructure solutions are being incorporated into other advanced UAS systems across the U.S., designed to enable the UAS industry to safely scale.

In North Dakota, the Northern Plains UAS Test Site has teamed up with Airspace Link, North Dakota DOT, VantisUAS, FAA BEYOND program and Thales to implement critical drone infrastructure to support safe and scalable advanced drone operations across the entire state. This blueprint will show just how America can implement a standardized, accessible, and repeatable system for state-wide drone deployments. This will lower the barrier for advanced drone operations into a single network that multiple users can take advantage of to meet their needs to fly beyond visual line of sight and package delivery. https://www.commercialuavnews.com/infrastructure/north-dakota-s-vantisuas-system-is-building-the-blueprint-on-how-to-safely-integrate-bvlos-operations-at-scale?utm_source=Commercial%20UAV%20News&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=5_minute

The company is led by Michael Healander along with founding members Ana Healander and Daniel Bradshaw, who grew the Detroit-based team to 20 full-time staff in the last year and has developed partnerships with over forty government agencies and municipalities in the United States to implement Airspace Link's AirHub platform for drone infrastructure.

"Our core purpose is to safely integrate drones into the national airspace and our communities at scale," said Healander. "We thank Altos Ventures and Thales for joining our vision of paving the way for the drone economy with shared, neutral and affordable UAS infrastructure."

About Airspace Link, Inc:

Airspace Link, Inc. is an FAA Approved UAS Service Supplier (USS) of the Low Altitude Authorization & Notification Capability (LAANC). A cloud-based platform founded by Detroit, Michigan based founder Michael Healander. Airspace Link low altitude drone infrastructure is deployed to local communities and airports to support the safe use of recreational and commercial drone use in the region. These capabilities provide a new type of Smart City mobility infrastructure supporting the growth of drone operations, drone service providers, drone manufacturers, package delivery and air taxi in the future. Airspace Link's world headquarters is located at 1250 Library Street, Suite 61, Detroit, MI 48226.

Visit https://airspacelink.com/.

Media Contacts:

Airspace Link, Inc.:

Jake Serwer / (248) 894-9684 / [email protected]

Lisa Peterson / [email protected]

SOURCE Airspace Link

Related Links

https://airspacelink.com


(All amounts in CDN$ unless otherwise indicated)

VANCOUVER, BC, May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Alexco Resource Corp. (NYSE American: AXU) (TSX: AXU) ("Alexco" or the "Company") today announces the filing of an updated technical report (the "Technical Report") for its Keno Hill operations in Yukon, Canada ("Keno Hill"), expanding the Mineral Reserve by 22% to 1.44 million tonnes, grading an average 804 grams per tonne ("g/t") silver ("Ag"), 3.84% zinc ("Zn"), 2.64% lead ("Pb"), and 0.31 g/t gold ("Au"), or approximately 1,035 g/t silver equivalent ("AgEq"). The updated reserve mine plan is projected to produce over 35.5 million ounces of Ag over the next 8 years.

HIGHLIGHTS

Updated life of mine plan. Average annual production from Keno Hill of 4.4 million ounces of Ag at an average all-in sustaining cost (" AISC "), including corporate costs and working capital, of US$11.59 /ounce (" oz ").





Average annual production from Keno Hill of 4.4 million ounces of Ag at an average all-in sustaining cost (" "), including corporate costs and working capital, of /ounce (" "). Robust economics at consensus silver prices with significant leverage. Life of mine after-tax free cash flows of approximately $189.7 million using analyst consensus metal prices, which equates to approximately $277.3 million at current Ag prices 1 .





Life of mine after-tax free cash flows of approximately using analyst consensus metal prices, which equates to approximately at current Ag prices . High grade Reserve growth of 22% for contained Ag. Mineral Reserves increased to 1.44 million tonnes, versus the previous estimate of 1.17 million tonnes, while maintaining Keno Hill's unique high-grade Ag grades of over 800 g/t (on average).





Mineral Reserves increased to 1.44 million tonnes, versus the previous estimate of 1.17 million tonnes, while maintaining Keno Hill's unique high-grade Ag grades of over 800 g/t (on average). Organic growth inherent in Keno Hill. After ramping up operations through 2021, the Technical Report contemplates a mill expansion in year three of operations from approximately 400 tonnes per day (" tpd ") to approximately 550 tpd, helping to grow payable Ag production to over 5.0 million oz in 2024.





After ramping up operations through 2021, the Technical Report contemplates a mill expansion in year three of operations from approximately 400 tonnes per day (" ") to approximately 550 tpd, helping to grow payable Ag production to over 5.0 million oz in 2024. Further growth ahead for Keno Hill. The Technical Report and updated Mineral Reserve estimate are based upon all drilling completed at Keno Hill prior to 2019. Alexco plans to update the property-wide mineral resource estimate by year end 2021 and will incorporate the results from the ongoing 25,000 meter drill program focused on the infill and extension of the Bermingham Northeast Deep zone as well as the results of the successful drilling campaigns of 2019 and 2020.

Clynt Nauman, Alexco's Chairman and CEO said, "Today's updated Technical Report further demonstrates that Keno Hill is a district capable of generating significant financial returns from very high-grade Reserves over a growing mine life in a tier-one jurisdiction. Our 2021 exploration drilling program continues to advance and will form the basis for an updated mineral resource by the end of the year. We anticipate that this work will confirm our long-held thesis that production from Keno Hill should continue for many years to come, and that its best days are ahead."

1. Based upon the +20% Ag price sensitivity scenario, which approximates the current Ag price

MINERAL RESERVE ESTIMATE

The Mineral Reserves (shown below) show the total Mineral Reserves for Keno Hill; all Mineral Reserves are Probable Mineral Reserves. External dilution and mineable recovery have been applied to the Mineral Reserves. Please note that rounding of tonnes, average grades, and contained metal may result in apparent discrepancies with rounded totals.

Mineral Reserves

Deposit Category Tonnes Ag

(g/t) Pb

(%) Zn

(%) Au

(g/t) Contained

Metal

(000 oz Ag) Contained

Metal

(000 oz Au) Contained

Metal

(M Ibs Pb) Contained

Metal

(M Ibs Zn) Bellekeno Proven - - - - - - - - - Probable 12,809 936 13.00 7.30 0.00 385 0 4 2 Bellekeno

Surface

Stockpile Proven - - - - - - - - - Probable 3,397 1150 21.70 4.50 0.00 126 0 2 0 Lucky Queen Proven - - - - - - - - - Probable 70,648 1269 2.71 1.56 0.13 2883 0 4 2 Flame and Moth Proven - - - - - - - - - Probable 721,322 672 2.69 6.21 0.49 15,590 11 43 99 Bermingham Proven - - - - - - - - -

Probable 630,173 899 2.26 1.30 0.13 18,209 3 31 18 Total Proven - - - - - - - - -

Probable 1,438,349 804 2.64 3.84 0.31 37,193 14 84 122

Notes:

1. Mineral Reserves are reported herein based on an NSR cutoff value using estimated metallurgical recoveries, assumed metal prices and smelter terms, which include payable factors, treatment charges, penalties, and refining charges. 2. Tonnage and grade measurements are in metric units. Contained gold and silver ounces are reported as troy ounces. 3. The Bellekeno, Lucky Queen, Flame & Moth and Bermingham deposits are incorporated into the current mine plan supported by disclosure in the news release dated May 26, 2021 entitled "Alexco Announces 22% Increase to Silver Reserves; Updated Technical Report Demonstrates Robust Economics at Keno Hill". 4. Rounding as required by reporting guidelines may result in apparent summation differences between tonnes, grade and contained metal content.

LIFE OF MINE PLAN



TOTAL 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 MILL TONNES 1,438,349 62,057 137,120 166,380 199,980 199,980 199,980 199,980 199,980 72,892 Calculated Average Grade Ag (g/t) 804 947 1077 909 863 721 777 678 730 623 Au (g/t) 0.31 0.16 0.29 0.27 0.34 0.33 0.32 0.31 0.33 0.28 Pb (%) 2.64% 5.93% 2.93% 2.92% 3.41% 2.55% 2.23% 2.08% 1.93% 1.41% Zn (%) 3.84% 4.85% 4.63% 3.24% 2.85% 3.52% 3.35% 3.46% 5.02% 5.52% Payable Metal Production Ag (Oz) 33,510,354 1,686,763 4,308,807 4,398,913 5,018,716 4,168,804 4,501,660 3,914,647 4,209,621 1,302,423 Au (Oz) 5,082 81 419 450 691 779 787 758 844 273 Pb (lbs) 69.8 6.8 7.4 9.0 12.8 9.4 8.1 7.5 7.0 1.8 Zn (lbs) 75.8 4.2 8.9 7.2 7.6 9.6 9.1 9.4 14.2 5.7

NATIONAL INSTRUMENT 43-101

The Technical Report, titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report on Updated Mineral Resource and Reserve Estimate of the Keno Hill Silver District" with an effective date of April 1, 2021 and dated May 26, 2021 has been filed on SEDAR.

Readers are cautioned that the conclusions, projections, and estimates set out in this news release are subject to important qualifications, assumptions, and exclusions, all of which are detailed in the Technical Report. To fully understand the summary information set out above, the Technical Report filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com should be read in its entirety.

Qualified Persons

The Technical Report was compiled by Mining Plus with contributions from a team of Qualified Persons as defined by National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") as follows:

Zach Allwright , P.Eng. of Mining Plus

, P.Eng. of Mining Plus Gilles Arseneau , Ph.D., P.Geo. of SRK Canada Inc.

, Ph.D., P.Geo. of SRK Canada Inc. Hassan Ghaffari , P.Eng of Tetra Tech

, P.Eng of Tetra Tech Paul Hughes , Ph.D., P.Eng. of Mining Plus

, Ph.D., P.Eng. of Mining Plus Cliff Revering , P.Eng., of SRK Canada Inc.

, P.Eng., of SRK Canada Inc. Kourosh Tarighi , M.Sc, P.Eng. of Mining Plus

All Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves are classified following the CIM Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves (May 2014), in accordance with the CIM Estimation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves Best Practice Guidelines and NI 43-101.

See "Cautionary Note to Investors regarding Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Estimates" below.

The technical information in this news release regarding the Technical Report and the contents thereof was reviewed by Zach Allwright, P.Eng., Paul Hughes Ph.D., P.Eng. and Kourosh Tarighi, M.Sc., P.Eng. each of Mining Plus, Gilles Arseneau, Ph.D., P.Geo. and Cliff Revering, P.Eng, both of SRK Canada Inc. and Hassan Ghaffari, P.Eng. of Tetra Tech, each of whom is a Qualified Person and has approved the disclosure herein.

About Alexco

Alexco is a Canadian primary silver company that owns and operates the majority of the historic Keno Hill Silver District, in Canada's Yukon Territory, one of the highest-grade silver deposits in the world. Alexco is currently advancing Keno Hill to production and started concentrate production and shipments in Q1 2021. Keno Hill is expected to produce an average of approximately 4.4 million ounces of silver per year contained in high quality lead/silver and zinc concentrates. Keno Hill retains significant potential to grow and Alexco has a long history of expanding the operation's mineral resources through successful exploration.

Please visit the Alexco website at www.alexcoresource.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Some statements ("forward-looking statements") in this news release contain forward-looking information concerning the results of the Technical Report, anticipated results and developments in Alexco's operations in future periods, planned exploration and development of its properties, plans related to Alexco's business and other matters that may occur in the future, made as of the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to results of the Technical Report; future mineral exploration including the estimation of Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources and the realization of Mineral Reserve and Mineral Resource estimates and anticipated timing regarding results from the ongoing drill program and updated mineral resource estimate; future mine construction and development activities; future mine operation and production; the timing of activities and reports; the amount of estimated development and operational expenses; projected operational and economic metrics; the success of exploration and development activities; the potential upside and growth in respect of certain deposits comprising the Keno Hill Project; anticipated permitting time lines; requirements for additional permits (or amendments to existing permits); anticipated installation of certain infrastructure; projected equipment and production capacity; plans regarding the Company's 2021 drilling program; and potential capital, revenue and sources and uses of funds. Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which could cause actual events or results to differ from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, risks related to risks and uncertainties relating to the COVID-19 pandemic including but not limited to business closures, travel restrictions, quarantines and a general reduction in consumer activity; actual results and timing of exploration and development, mining, environmental services and remediation and reclamation activities; future prices of silver, gold, lead, zinc and other commodities; possible variations in mineral resources, grade or recovery rates; failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry; First Nation rights and title; continued capitalization and commercial viability; global economic conditions; competition; and delays in obtaining governmental approvals or financing or in the completion of development activities. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions that management believes are reasonable at the time they are made. In making the forward-looking statements included in this news release, Alexco has applied several material assumptions, including, but not limited to the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, although evolving, will stabilize or at least not worsen; that the extent to which COVID-19 may impact the Company, including without limitation disruptions to the mobility of Company personnel, costs associated with implementation of health and safety protocols, increased labour and transportation costs, and other related impacts, will not change in a materially adverse manner; Alexco will be able to raise additional capital as necessary, that the assumptions, projections, and estimates in the Technical Report will proceed as planned, and that market fundamentals will result in sustained silver, gold, lead and zinc demand and prices. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Alexco expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation.

Cautionary Note to Investors regarding Mineral Resource and Reserve Estimates

This press release has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of Canadian provincial securities laws, which differ from the requirements of U.S. securities laws. Unless otherwise indicated, all mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates included have been prepared in accordance with Canadian National Instrument 43101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43101") and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (the "CIM")  CIM Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, adopted by the CIM Council, as amended. NI 43101 is an instrument developed by the Canadian securities administrators that establishes standards for all public disclosure an issuer makes of scientific and technical information concerning mineral projects. These definitions differ from the definitions in requirements under United States securities laws adopted by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC").

Under Canadian rules, estimates of Inferred Mineral Resources (as defined therein) may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies, except in rare cases. Investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of an inferred mineral resource exists or is economically or legally mineable. An "Inferred Mineral Resource" is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality are estimated on the basis of limited geological evidence and sampling. Geological evidence is sufficient to imply but not verify geological and grade or quality continuity. An Inferred Mineral Resource has a lower level of confidence than that applying to an Indicated Mineral Resource (as defined herein) and must not be converted to a mineral reserve. It is reasonably expected that the majority of Inferred Mineral Resources could be upgraded to Indicated Mineral Resources with continued exploration.

Investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources determined in accordance with NI 43-101 and CIM standards will qualify as, or be identical to, mineral reserves and mineral resources estimated under the standards of the SEC applicable to U.S. companies. The SEC has adopted amendments to its disclosure rules to modernize the mineral property disclosure requirements for issuers whose securities are registered with the SEC. As a foreign private issuer that files its annual report on Form 40-F with the SEC pursuant to the multi-jurisdictional disclosure system, the Corporation is not required to provide disclosure on its mineral properties under the SEC's new rules and will continue to provide disclosure under NI 43-101 and the CIM standards. If the Corporation ceases to be a foreign private issuer or lose its eligibility to file its annual report on Form 40-F pursuant to the multi-jurisdictional disclosure system, then the Corporation will be subject to the SEC's new rules, which differ from the requirements of NI 43-101 and the CIM standards.

Accordingly, information contained in this press release that contain descriptions of the Corporation's mineral deposits 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.

Alternative Performance Measures

Alternative performance measures are furnished to provide additional information. These non-GAAP performance measures are included in this news release because these statistics are key performance measures that management uses to monitor performance, to assess how the Company is performing, and to plan and assess the overall effectiveness and efficiency of mining operations. These performance measures do not have a standard meaning within IFRS and, therefore, amounts presented may not be comparable to similar data presented by other mining companies. These performance measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measure of performance in accordance with IFRS. The Company has included certain alternative performance measures including "All-in Sustaining Cost" (AISC) per ounce of silver in this press release. All-in sustaining cost per silver ounce is calculated with reference to World Gold Council guidance, and is based upon contained silver ounces produced, excludes impacts of the streaming agreement with Wheaton Precious Metals, and included general and administrative, exploration, other expenses and sustaining capital expenditures.

SOURCE Alexco Resource Corp.

Related Links

www.alexcoresource.com


MINNEAPOLIS, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Global humanitarian organization, Alight , in collaboration with partner organization, Eastern Congo Initiative (ECI) , is responding to the devastating volcanic eruption that recently took place in the Goma region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as thousands of displaced people enter Rwanda seeking safety. The partner organizations have teams already established in the DRC and Rwanda, making them uniquely positioned to support emergency response efforts on both sides of the border. While Alight's efforts in Rwanda have been focused on creating child friendly spaces, providing protective and WASH services, and also securing mobile latrines, ECI's work in the DRC is centered around supporting local Congolese organizations responding, as well as direct support to one partner establishing and equipping pop-up health clinics to serve all those who've fled Goma for neighboring towns and villages.

Mount Nyiragongo erupted in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo in the town of Goma on Saturday, May 22, 2021, however volcanic activity is likely to continue through mid-June. There have been ongoing earthquakes and tremors, along with persistent ash plumes. Related earthquakes have caused infrastructure damage in Goma and surrounding areas, including in Gisenyi, Rwanda. There is also widespread power and water outages in several districts in and around Goma, all of which contributes to a significant disruption to daily life.

"The eruption and all the continued tremors have impacted communities throughout the region, and our efforts to respond are evolving quickly," said Bernad Ojwang, Alight's Rwanda Country Director. "Yesterday, there were about 700 Congolese refugees in Rwanda who'd fled the disaster. Today, there are 6,000 and counting. Our team is responding in Rwanda's Rubavu district, working hand in hand with Rwanda authorities specifically focusing on water and sanitation, protection, and ensuring people, especially children and mothers, have proper shelter and clothing through this cold and rainy season. We're also preparing for the possibility that this emergency will go on for several weeks as the seismic activity continues."

Authorities have confirmed at least 32 deaths and 40 people missing. At least 8,000 residents have crossed the border to Rubavu, Rwanda, since Saturday and another 6,000 people have crossed into Rwanda as of today. Around 4,500 households have been left homeless.

"In a situation like this, kids and families need strategies and opportunities to cope with the stress of the events they're experiencing," said Alight Protection Officer, Esther Kirabo. "We're gathering toys and creating environments where kids can play and give their minds a rest. Our protection teams are a guide in uncertain times, making sure adults can access the support and counsel they need and be referred to further services."

Alight and ECI are seeking donations to support the crucial work that is taking place in the DRC and Rwanda. To learn more about the team's efforts and to donate, please visit either Alight or ECI.

ABOUT ALIGHT

Established in 1978 by founder Neal Ball, Alight , formerly known as American Refugee Committee, provides health care, clean water, shelter, protection and economic opportunities to more than 3.5 million people in 19 countries each year. Alight believes in the incredible creativity, potential and ingenuity of the displaced and works to shine a light on their humanity, the tremendous amount of good that's already happening and the possibilities to do more. In 2020, Alight received the prestigious 4-Star Rating from Charity Navigator for the tenth consecutive year, celebrating a decade of impactful work. The organization exists to see and help every person make meaningful change in the world  from displaced and marginalized communities in Africa, Asia and the Americas to...anyone, anywhere. To learn more about Alight's program at the U.S./Mexico border and ways to support the migrant population, visit www.wearealight.org .

ABOUT EASTERN CONGO INITIATIVE

Eastern Congo Initiative (ECI), a subsidiary of Alight, is the first U.S.-based nonprofit dedicated to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The organization works shoulder to shoulder with Congolese communities as they build health, freedom and prosperity for life. Founded by Ben Affleck and Whitney Williams in 2010, ECI has invested more than $10 million to support visionary Congolese community leaders who are solving the country's most urgent problems. With ECI's support, those organizations have made life better for tens of thousands of people60 percent of them girls and women. With partners like Starbucks, Theo Chocolate and Nespresso, ECI has introduced the excellence of Congolese coffee and cocoa to customers worldwide. ECI's transformative business model Asili provides clean water and world-class primary healthcare to 120,000 customers in Congo every single day. Thanks to the brilliance of the Congolese people, ECI is transforming the whole idea of humanitarian aid. Learn more at easterncongo.org.

SOURCE Alight

Related Links

http://www.wearealight.org


WASHINGTON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Alion Science and Technology has been awarded a $64 million task order with a 60-month period of performance for C-5M Super Galaxy Reliability, Integrity, Maintainability, and Engineering for the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC)/WLS. Alion was awarded this contract under the Department of Defense Information Analysis Center's (DoD IAC) multiple-award contract (MAC) vehicle. These DoD IAC MAC task orders are awarded by the U.S. Air Force's 774th Enterprise Sourcing Squadron.

"Alion's team of leading C-5 Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) will continue to provide innovative solutions to platform and sustainment engineering challenges," said Terri Walker-Spoonhour, Alion's Senior Vice President of Operations and Acting General Manager of the Cyber and Electronic Warfare Group. "We have years of experience across the C-5 platform, including support of Aircraft Wiring and Avionics Integrity Program (AVIP), Landing Gear Integrity Program (LGIP) parts obsolescence, DMSMS resolution and high maintenance driver investigations ultimately identifying proposed solutions and risk mitigation strategies which improve aircraft availability."

C-5M Super Galaxy Division (WLS) of the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), a sub-unit of the Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC), is located at Robins Air Force Base (AFB), GA and has worldwide management and engineering responsibility for the C-5M Super Galaxy (C-5M) fleet. WLS is responsible for scheduled maintenance requirements management, fleet management, Configuration Management (CM), and technical and logistical support of the C-5M fleet of 52 aircraft. While the primary focus of this TO is to identify, address, and resolve field service revealed deficiencies of the C-5M aircraft systems, subsystems, and component parts, similar work may be performed for other weapon systems, especially where common technical issues occur, so that innovative solutions can be shared across multiple weapon systems.

ABOUT DOD IAC PROGRAM

The DoD IAC program operates as a part of Defense Technical Information Center and provides technical data management and research support for DoD and federal government users. Established in the 1940s, the IAC program serves the DoD Science & Technology (S&T) and acquisition communities driving innovation and technological developments by enhancing collaboration through integrated scientific and technical information development and dissemination for the DoD and broader S&T community.

ABOUT ALION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION

Solving some of our nation's most complex national security challenges, Alion works side-by-side with our Defense and Intelligence communities as we design and deliver advanced engineering solutions to meet current and future demands. We go beyond the superficial and dive deep into the root of the engineering complexities and bring innovation to reality. With global industry expertise in Big Data, Analytics, and Cyber Security; Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning; Live, Virtual, and Constructive Solutions; Electronic Warfare and C5ISR; and Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing, Alion delivers mission success where and when it matters most. To learn more, visit www.alionscience.com.

Disclaimer. "This material is based upon work supported by the DoD Information Analysis Center Program Management Office (DoD IAC PMO), sponsored by the Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC)under Contract No. FA807518D0002."

Approved for Public Release, Distribution Unlimited. "Any opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the 774th Enterprise Sourcing Squadron (774 ESS)."

SOURCE Alion Science and Technology Corporation

Related Links

http://www.alionscience.com


BRIDGEPORT, Conn., May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Anago Cleaning Systems, an industry-leading commercial cleaning franchise with over 1,700 Regional and Unit Franchises throughout the U.S. and Canada, announced its newest franchise owners in Southwest Connecticut, including New Haven and Fairfield counties. Ted Bonanno, Regional Director of Anago of Southwest Connecticut, will lead this new territory for the popular commercial cleaning franchise, adding more entrepreneurial opportunities in this area of the Northeast United States.

"This is an opportunity I have been seeking for quite some time," said Bonanno. "I was attracted to Anago's ability to demonstrate its profitability and viability during strained economic times. Its recession-resistant model along with its reputation, stability, and performance within a booming industry is something I feel very confident investing my time and expertise in within the Southwestern Connecticut market."

Southwest Connecticut is poised for growth. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Southwestern Connecticut was projecting a 25-year growth period and was tapped to become the economic engine of the state. With this type of expected growth, Anago of Southwest Connecticut is positioned to benefit from both existing and new businesses opening in the area. Commercial cleaning was listed as a frontline, essential operation during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and is expected to remain a key business operational necessity to keep brick and mortar businesses, along with many offices building, clean and sanitized.

"We are excited for Ted and the new Master Franchise operation in Southwest Connecticut," said Adam Povlitz, CEO & President of Anago Cleaning Systems. "His energy and unique business experience define success and is exemplary of what we expect from our Master Franchise owners. We look forward to Ted's success in Southwest Connecticut."

When discussing what Anago offered versus other commercial cleaning franchise companies, Bonanno said, "Anago's Master Franchise model excited me and fit my previous professional experiences in the financial sales and hospitality industry perfectly. It took me a year of research and diving into several other commercial cleaning franchise brands. Anago was the clear winner."

Bonanno earned his MBA from Fordham University's Gabelli School of Business in New York City and enjoyed a successful consultancy career and has invested in many different business ventures.

"This is an opportunity I have been seeking for quite some time," said Bonanno. "I was attracted to Anago's ability to demonstrate its profitability and viability during strained economic times. Its recession-resistant model along with its reputation, stability, and performance within a booming industry is something I feel very confident investing my time and expertise in within the Southwestern Connecticut market."

Anago Cleaning Systems is a pioneer of the franchise system for both master and unit franchises, which allows successful mid-career professionals to operate their own exclusive regional franchises, while allowing small businesses to invest in their success. Both levels simply focus on running their business while Anago Cleaning Systems provides assistance, guidance, and critical tools to grow.

The Anago of Southwest Connecticut office is located at 211 State St., Suite 402, Bridgeport, CT 06604 and can be reached by calling 203-993-6779. To explore Regional franchise opportunities with Anago, contact Judy Walker, Senior Vice President of Marketing, at 800-213-5857 or [email protected] or visit http://www.AnagoMasters.com.

About Anago Cleaning Systems

Anago Cleaning Systems is an international commercial cleaning franchise brand. Utilizing the Master Franchise System, Anago supports over 45 Master Franchisees and over 1,700 Unit Franchisees. Founded in 1989, Anago has set the worldwide standard in business support and structure for local and regional companies to provide unparalleled cleaning services to businesses of all kinds. Anago was ranked #33 overall by Entrepreneur magazine in its latest Franchise 500 ranking. Anago is proud to be recognized as a top franchise for Veterans and offers a discount to our service members. Anago is accredited by the IFA's Vet Fran initiative and offers a discount to any honorably discharged Veteran. Anago Cleaning Systems welcomes all Veterans looking to open a Master or Unit Franchise. For further information, visit its website at AnagoMasters.com.

Press Contact: Perry Athanason/TopFireMedia/[email protected]/917-319-2126.



SOURCE Anago Cleaning Systems

Related Links

http://www.AnagoMasters.com


According to the agreement, Antaisolar will supply 2GW solar racking to OSW from 2021 to 2024.

"We're proud to achieve this milestone of 2GW cooperation agreement with OSW on our 15th anniversary. OSW has been deeply involved in Australia for many years and was awarded one of Australia's fastest-growing Top 500 private companies in 2019. We're excited to joint with OSW as it's a vital opportunity to drive greater growth and accelerate local energy transition," said Jasmine Huang, Antaisolar's president.

"Antaisolar has been our valued partner and widely recognized by its high quality products and all-around service. The strategic partnership will enhance the advantages possessed by both parties in the solar power industry, allowing complementary efforts for fueling the transition to a low carbon economy," said Anson Zhang, OSW's CEO.

Strategic partnership with Paramount Group

Antaisolar has partnered with Paramount on a 40MW utility solar project earlier this year. Bangladesh is the best option for establishing cooperation as it's becoming a hotspot for the solar industry. The agreement calls for further cooperation in solar racking portfolios for thriving utility sector. Through the collaboration, Paramount and Antaisolar will team up to promote the energy transition in Bangladesh.

Antaisolar's 15th anniversary was injected with fresh impetus by the two strategic cooperation agreements. With the vision of "Backbone for Solar World", Antaisolar will joint with global partners to achieve carbon-neutrality and heading to the next 15 years.

About Antaisolar:

Antaisolar, established in 2006, has a vast expertise in Solar Mounting & Tracking System with over 800 employees including a R&D team composed of 80 specialists. Antaisolar has been continuously optimizing the global service by globally setting up over 20 branches and offices.

Up to now, its cumulative solar racking shipments have reached 15GW and ranked No.1 of export volume to Japan for seven consecutive years and ranked top 1 in Australian and Vietnam distribution market.

Contact:

www.antaisolar.com

SOURCE Antaisolar
NEW YORK, May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Atento S.A. (NYSE: ATTO), one of the five largest providers of customer relationship and business process outsourcing (CRM/BPO) services worldwide based on revenues, and leader in Latin America, announces the launch of its Virtual Hub, the first command center aimed at optimizing operations in telecommuting models. During the first stage and employing state-of-the-art technology, the hub will allow for the management of more than eighty thousand working-at-home agents (WAHA) supporting companies across several industries.

The Virtual Hub was designed to respond to new customer demands as an add-on solution for the [email protected] solution. This remote working model allowed Atento to switch over half of its workforce to telecommute during the pandemic, guaranteeing the continuity of operations in a flexible and agile way. As a result, the remote model has boosted productivity to 75.3%, up by 1.3 percentage points compared to January 2020, raising at the same time the employees' satisfaction levels.

"Atento Virtual Hub is another step we are taking into transforming CX. Our clients will now have a single centralized point where they will be able to manage all remote operations of the team as a whole, from agent recruiting and training to campaign development, everything under strict security protocols managed on an agile way with a global approach", said Carlos Lopez-Abadia, Atento's CEO.

The solution, which is based on cloud technology, offers high flexibility, is not limited to a specific location and can be adapted to the client's operational needs in minimal time. In addition, any company, regardless of the sector, can have a hub directly connected with offices worldwide, thus achieving global operational management.

Agent recruitment and hiring processes, for example, will be fully coordinated online from the virtual hub location through advanced technology and real-time operational management that includes supervision, monitoring, and reporting for the various campaigns.

Prioritizing safety

Cybersecurity has become a high priority for businesses, and even more critical with the remote work model, as data breaches from cyberattacks can cause significant damages to businesses. This aspect is one of the biggest concerns for security managers at companies, who see external attacks, malware and accidental email information leaks as the principal vulnerabilities to be reinforced in any organization.

With this in mind, Atento's Virtual Hub will have biometric recognition, two-factor authentication, secure connection via VPN, information security controls, among other protocols, to guarantee data protection. In addition to virtual security, the hub will feature high levels and physical security protocols such as facial recognition for entrance and operational alarm screens.

Atento's Virtual Hub was launched during a face-to-face and virtual corporate event, which included managers and customers from several countries. In the event, the Company revealed that Mexico was chosen as the first country to offer this new management model.

About Atento

Atento is one of the world's top five providers of customer relationship management and business process outsourcing (CRM/BPO) services and a leader in Latin America. Atento is also a leading provider of NEARshoring CRM/BPO services for companies operating in the United States. Since 1999, the company has developed its business model in 13 countries and has a presence in Spain and a workforce of 150,000 employees. Atento has more than 400 customers to which it provides a wide range of CRM/BPO services through multiple channels. Its clients are leading multinational companies in sectors such as technology, new digital enterprises, telecommunications, finance, healthcare, consumer consumption and public administration, among others. Atento shares are traded under the symbol ATTO on the New York Stock Exchange. In 2019, Atento was recognized by Great Place to Work as one of the 25 Best Multinationals to Work in the World and as one of the 25 Best Multinationals to work in Latin America. For more information www.atento.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "may," "should," "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "predicts," "intends," "continue" or similar terminology. These statements reflect only Atento's current expectations and are not guarantees of future performance or results. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In particular, the COVID-19 pandemic, and governments' extraordinary measures to limit the spread of the virus, are disrupting the global economy and Atento's industry, and consequently adversely affecting the Company's business, results of operation and cash flows and, as conditions are recent, uncertain and changing rapidly, it is difficult to predict the full extent of the impact that the pandemic will have. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, competition in Atento's highly competitive industries; increases in the cost of voice and data services or significant interruptions in these services; Atento's ability to keep pace with its clients' needs for rapid technological change and systems availability; the continued deployment and adoption of emerging technologies; the loss, financial difficulties or bankruptcy of any key clients; the effects of global economic trends on the businesses of Atento's clients; the non-exclusive nature of Atento's client contracts and the absence of revenue commitments; security and privacy breaches of the systems Atento uses to protect personal data; the cost of pending and future litigation; the cost of defending Atento against intellectual property infringement claims; extensive regulation affecting many of Atento's businesses; Atento's ability to protect its proprietary information or technology; service interruptions to Atento's data and operation centers; Atento's ability to retain key personnel and attract a sufficient number of qualified employees; increases in labor costs and turnover rates; the political, economic and other conditions in the countries where Atento operates; changes in foreign exchange rates; Atento's ability to complete future acquisitions and integrate or achieve the objectives of its recent and future acquisitions; future impairments of our substantial goodwill, intangible assets, or other long-lived assets; and Atento's ability to recover consumer receivables on behalf of its clients. In addition, Atento is subject to risks related to its level of indebtedness. Such risks include Atento's ability to generate sufficient cash to service its indebtedness and fund its other liquidity needs; Atento's ability to comply with covenants contained in its debt instruments; the ability to obtain additional financing; the incurrence of significant additional indebtedness by Atento and its subsidiaries; and the ability of Atento's lenders to fulfill their lending commitments. Atento is also subject to other risk factors described in documents filed by the comp any with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which the statements were made. Atento undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

SOURCE Atento S.A.

Related Links

http://www.atento.com


VANCOUVER, BC, May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - B2Gold Corp. (TSX: BTO) (NYSE AMERICAN: BTG) (NSX: B2G) ("B2Gold" or the "Company") announces that the Company is monitoring the evolving political situation in Mali. B2Gold's mining operations at its Fekola Mine have not been affected in any way and the Company has continued normal mining and milling operations. The Company does not expect that any operational days will be lost due to the political situation in the country and has confirmed that all B2Gold's personnel are safe. The Fekola Mine is projected to produce 530,000 to 560,000 ounces of gold in 2021.

In addition, the Company has been made aware that L'Union Nationale des Travailleurs du Mali (the National Union of Malian Workers) has ended the national strike action in the country as of May 25, 2021, which to date had not had any significant impact on B2Gold's operations in Mali.

B2Gold will continue to monitor the evolving situation and work to ensure the safety of its personnel and that the Fekola mining operations continue normally, providing economic benefits and job creation both to the communities around the mine and to regional and national governments. Foreign investment and political stability in Mali are critical for the country.

B2Gold is committed to working with the governing authorities in Mali in order to build on the strong relationship it has enjoyed to date. The Company will continue to work in a transparent manner to ensure the continuation of the positive and mutually beneficial partnership between B2Gold and the Malian government for the benefit of the Malian people and all stakeholders. This will include a continuation of the ongoing discussions with respect to renewal of the Menankoto exploration permit, which the Company believes it is entitled to receive under proper application of Malian law.

B2Gold is one of the largest Canadian investors in Mali and the Fekola Mine, in which the State of Mali has a 20% ownership interest, and is a flagship investment in the country's mining sector. In 2020, B2Gold produced 622,518 ounces of gold, an estimated 27% of Mali's industrial gold production, from the Fekola Mine, generating approximately US$300 million in revenues for Mali, comprised of taxes and dividends. Since the Fekola Mine commenced production in 2017, it has generated approximately US$580 million in revenues for Mali.

The Company's total investment in Mali to date is more than US$1 billion and B2Gold is a significant employer with more than 2,200 employees, of which more than 93% are Malian nationals. The Company paid approximately US$64 million in employee salaries and benefits in 2020. Through its investment, B2Gold has provided major economic benefits including job creation, training, capacity building and community investments, including a recently announced US$10 million Signature Agricultural Business Community Project to benefit local communities and provide sustainable livelihoods going forward.

Since the Company commenced its investment in Mali, B2Gold has always enjoyed a positive and mutually beneficial relationship with the Government of Mali. Most recently, B2Gold partnered with the Government of Mali to assist the people of Mali facing challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as its impact on the mining sector. B2Gold continues to explore additional ways in which it might help the government deal with the impact of the pandemic.

About B2Gold Corp.

B2Gold is a low-cost international senior gold producer headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. Founded in 2007, today, B2Gold has operating gold mines in Mali, Namibia and the Philippines and numerous exploration and development projects in various countries including Mali, Colombia, Burkina Faso, Finland and Uzbekistan B2Gold forecasts total consolidated gold production of between 970,000 and 1,030,000 ounces in 2021.

On Behalf of B2GOLD CORP.

"Clive T. Johnson"

President & Chief Executive Officer

For more information on B2Gold, please visit the Company website at www.b2gold.com or contact:

Ian MacLean

Vice President, Investor Relations

+1 604-681-8371

[email protected] Katie Bromley

Manager, Investor Relations & Public Relations

+1 604-681-8371

[email protected]

The Toronto Stock Exchange and NYSE American LLC neither approve nor disapprove the information contained in this news release.

Production results and production guidance presented in this news release reflect total production at the mines B2Gold operates on a 100% project basis. Please see our Annual Information Form dated March 30, 2021 for a discussion of our ownership interest in the mines B2Gold operates.

This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation, including: projections; outlook; guidance; forecasts; estimates; and other statements regarding future or estimated financial and operational performance, gold production and sales, revenues and cash flows, and capital costs (sustaining and non-sustaining) and operating costs, including projected cash operating costs and AISC, and budgets

on a consolidated and mine by mine basis; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on B2Gold's operations, including any restrictions or suspensions with respect to our operations and the effect of any such restrictions or suspensions on our financial and operational results; the ability of the Company to successfully maintain our operations if they are temporarily suspended, and to restart or ramp-up these operations efficiently and economically, the impact of COVID-19 on the Company's workforce, suppliers and other essential resources and what effect those impacts, if they occur, would have on our business, our planned capital and exploration expenditures; future or estimated mine life, metal price assumptions, ore grades or sources, gold recovery rates, stripping ratios, throughput, ore processing; statements regarding anticipated exploration, drilling, development, construction, permitting and other activities or achievements of B2Gold; and including, without limitation: total consolidated gold production of between 970,000 and 1,030,000 ounces in 2021; and gold production from the Fekola Mine of between 530,000 and 560,000 ounces in 2021. 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 generally, although not always, 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. All such forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made.

Forward-looking statements necessarily involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond B2Gold's control, including risks associated with or related to: the duration and extent of the COVID-19 pandemic, the effectiveness of preventative measures and contingency plans put in place by the Company to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, including, but not limited to, social distancing, a non-essential travel ban, business continuity plans, and efforts to mitigate supply chain disruptions; escalation of travel restrictions on people or products and reductions in the ability of the Company to transport and refine dore; the volatility of metal prices and B2Gold's common shares; changes in tax laws; the dangers inherent in exploration, development and mining activities; the uncertainty of reserve and resource estimates; not achieving production, cost or other estimates; actual production, development plans and costs differing materially from the estimates in B2Gold's feasibility and other studies; the ability to obtain and maintain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for mining activities; environmental regulations or hazards and compliance with complex regulations associated with mining activities; climate change and climate change regulations; the ability to replace mineral reserves and identify acquisition opportunities; the unknown liabilities of companies acquired by B2Gold; the ability to successfully integrate new acquisitions; fluctuations in exchange rates; the availability of financing; financing and debt activities, including potential restrictions imposed on B2Gold's operations as a result thereof and the ability to generate sufficient cash flows; operations in foreign and developing countries and the compliance with foreign laws, including those associated with operations in Mali, Namibia, the Philippines, Colombia and Burkina Faso and including risks related to changes in foreign laws and changing policies related to mining and local ownership requirements or resource nationalization generally, including in response to the COVID-19 outbreak; remote operations and the availability of adequate infrastructure; fluctuations in price and availability of energy and other inputs necessary for mining operations; shortages or cost increases in necessary equipment, supplies and labour; regulatory, political and country risks, including local instability or acts of terrorism and the effects thereof; the reliance upon contractors, third parties and joint venture partners; the lack of sole decision-making authority related to Filminera Resources Corporation, which owns the Masbate Project; challenges to title or surface rights; the dependence on key personnel and the ability to attract and retain skilled personnel; the risk of an uninsurable or uninsured loss; adverse climate and weather conditions; litigation risk; competition with other mining companies; community support for B2Gold's operations, including risks related to strikes and the halting of such operations from time to time; conflicts with small scale miners; failures of information systems or information security threats; the ability to maintain adequate internal controls over financial reporting as required by law, including Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act; compliance with anti-corruption laws, and sanctions or other similar measures; social media and B2Gold's reputation; risks affecting Calibre having an impact on the value of the Company's investment in Calibre, and potential dilution of our equity interest in Calibre; as well as other factors identified and as described in more detail under the heading "Risk Factors" in B2Gold's most recent Annual Information Form, B2Gold's current Form 40-F Annual Report and B2Gold's other filings with Canadian securities regulators and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), which may be viewed at www.sedar.com and www.sec.gov, respectively (the "Websites"). The list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect B2Gold's forward-looking statements

B2Gold'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. These assumptions and factors include, but are not limited to, assumptions and factors related to B2Gold's ability to carry on current and future operations, including: the duration and effects of COVID-19 on our operations and workforce; development and exploration activities; the timing, extent, duration and economic viability of such operations, including any mineral resources or reserves identified thereby; the accuracy and reliability of estimates, projections, forecasts, studies and assessments; B2Gold's ability to meet or achieve estimates, projections and forecasts; the availability and cost of inputs; the price and market for outputs, including gold; foreign exchange rates; taxation levels; the timely receipt of necessary approvals or permits; the ability to meet current and future obligations; the ability to obtain timely financing on reasonable terms when required; the current and future social, economic and political conditions; and other assumptions and factors generally associated with the mining industry.

B2Gold's forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management and reflect their current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof. B2Gold 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 law. 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, no assurance can be given that any events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what benefits or liabilities B2Gold will derive therefrom. For the reasons set forth above, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.

SOURCE B2Gold Corp.
CINCINNATI, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Belcan, LLC ("Belcan"), a global supplier of engineering, supply chain, technical recruiting, and information technology (IT) services to the Aerospace, Defense, Automotive, Industrial, and Government services markets, announced today that it has acquired VICTOR42 (or the "Company"), a leading provider of special operations support, intelligence solutions and training, and IT services for the Federal Government. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

This acquisition marks the 17th acquisition by Belcan under its ownership by AE Industrial Partners, LP ("AEI"), a private equity firm specializing in Aerospace, Defense & Government Services, Space, Power Generation, and Specialty Industrial markets.

VICTOR42 is among a few select companies in the U.S. with more than a decade of experience providing special operations support and IT solutions. From analytical support to intelligence and operations software subject matter expertise (SME), VICTOR42's services and analysis are combined with advanced intelligence training to provide comprehensive support to special operations forces (SOF) around the world. Its subject matter experts have decades of real-world expertise which allows them to rapidly deliver flexible solutions crafted to meet a client's specific requirements. The Company's clients in the Federal Government include U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, as well as leading private companies in aerospace & defense and technology, including IBM, Palantir Technologies, CACI, and Jacobs Engineering. Based in Washington D.C., VICTOR42 performs work on six continents.

"We are excited to add a premier specialist company like VICTOR42 to our growing organization, and we look forward to working with their experienced team as we further expand our comprehensive offerings to government and defense clients," said Lance Kwasniewski, CEO of Belcan.

"Having the backing of Belcan will be transformative as VICTOR42 looks to expand its global footprint and develop new relationships," said Bobby Boucher, VP of Operations and Business Development at VICTOR42. "Our team is excited to embark on this next chapter of growth, and we are eager to collaborate with other Belcan professionals to deliver best-in-class solutions."

"Belcan is the right partner for VICTOR42 going forward, and I know that our clients and employees will benefit greatly as part of this stellar organization," said Mark Hunker, CEO of VICTOR42.

"We're excited to support the ongoing growth of Belcan, as it continues to build its strategic presence in the government IT and defense market," said Tyler Letarte, Vice President at AE Industrial Partners. "VICTOR42 brings a range of highly-skilled talent and capabilities to the organization, allowing Belcan to better serve its global customer base."

Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal advisor and PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP was the financial advisor to Belcan. Impresa Legal Group served as legal advisor to VICTOR42.

About Belcan

Belcan is a global supplier of engineering, supply chain, technical recruiting, and IT services to customers in the aerospace, defense, automotive, industrial, and government sectors. Belcan engineers better outcomes for customers  from jet engines, airframe, and avionics to heavy vehicles, automobiles, and cybersecurity. Belcan takes a partnering approach to provide solutions that are adaptable, integrated, and value-added, and has been earning the trust of its customers for over 60 years. For more information, please visit www.belcan.com.

About VICTOR42

VICTOR42 a special operations forces (SOF) intelligence and technology company that supports federal and corporate clients with analytical, operational, and technical support requirements worldwide. A Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), VICTOR42 has more than a decade of critical, specialized, and classified experience organized into five service offerings: Special Operations Support, IT Services, Cyber Security Consulting, Management and Strategic Consulting, and Intelligence Solutions and Training. For more information, please visit www.victor42.com/

About AE Industrial Partners

AE Industrial Partners is a private equity firm specializing in Aerospace, Defense & Government Services, Space, Power Generation, and Specialty Industrial markets. AE Industrial Partners invests in market-leading companies that can benefit from its deep industry knowledge, operating experience, and relationships throughout its target markets. AE Industrial Partners is a signatory to the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment. Learn more at www.aeroequity.com.

Contacts:

Lambert & Co.

Jennifer Hurson

845-507-0571

[email protected]

or

Caroline Luz

203-656-2829

[email protected]

SOURCE Belcan, LLC

Related Links

http://www.belcan.com


BOSTON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- binx health, a healthcare technology and diagnostics company that makes routine testing convenient by enabling access to care where people live, work, study and shop, today announced the closing of a Series E financing of $104 million. The financing was led by OrbiMed, and included other new investors Arrowmark Partners, Hildred Capital Management, Alta Life Sciences and Parian Global, along with existing investors LSP and Johnson and Johnson Development Corporation, among others. In connection with the financing, Andrew Goldman, Co-founder and Managing Partner of Hildred Capital Management, will join the Company's Board of Directors.

"We believe binx is positioned to transform how people think about access to routine testing. With their 'everywhere care' strategy, and remarkable molecular platform, we are thrilled to have led this round with a blue-chip syndicate, all as partners in the journey ahead," said Matthew Rizzo, OrbiMed Partner.

"We're especially excited by our investment in binx, given its commitment to scientific rigor and its leadership position in sexual health in CLIA-waived settings," said Tuan Huyn of ArrowMark.

"With key catalysts in place to accelerate effective point-of-care testing, we're excited to be working with the binx team in its mission to provide better and faster diagnostic capabilities to healthcare providers and consumers," said Andrew Goldman of Hildred Capital Management.

"binx is a unique company that sits at the intersection of high-quality testing, consumer convenience, and a shift to decentralized settings. We are thrilled to have joined the story at its commercial inflection," said Scott Moonly of Alta Life Sciences.

"We are witnessing a transition in healthcare from centralized to decentralized models, supported by proprietary solutions at point-of-care and at-home that have the potential to broaden access to care for millions. We are gratified that our new investor syndicate shares our vision around consumer convenience, healthcare equity and 'everywhere' access to high-quality testing," said Jeff Luber, Chief Executive Officer of binx health. "The proceeds from this financing will help us reach even more people with the care they need where they live, work and shop, while we ramp manufacturing and scaling of our proprietary binx io testing instrument and cartridges, expand our sales efforts in the U.S. and abroad, and further build out our proprietary software platform and data infrastructure."

The Company's 'Everywhere Care' business model is premised on the view that testing solutions for many diseases and disorders are needed in both traditional healthcare delivery locations and through remote and at-home access, to truly provide better access in support of total population health. For in-clinic/at-retail locations, the binx io rapid molecular point of care platform offers onsite convenience in a CLIAwaived solution for chlamydia and gonorrhea that can provide testing, diagnosis and treatment in the same visit. For those unable to access in-person testing, binx at-home offers convenience and high-quality access to care through remote sample collection. Through our omnichannel platform, we enable our enterprise customers to service their patient populations, no matter their preference or location.

Torreya Capital served as binx's financial advisor and placement agent for the financing. binx health was represented by its UK counsel, Taylor Vinters, and its US counsel, Foley Hoag LLP in connection with the financing, OrbiMed was represented by Morrison & Foerster LLP.

About OrbiMed

OrbiMed is a leading healthcare investment firm, with approximately $18 billion in assets under management. OrbiMed invests globally across the healthcare industry through a range of private equity funds, public equity funds, and royalty/credit funds. OrbiMed's team of over 100 professionals is based in New York City, San Francisco, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Mumbai, Herzliya and other key global markets.

About ArrowMark Partners

ArrowMark Partners is an employee-owned asset management firm founded in 2007. Today, ArrowMark manages $23.2 billion in assets on behalf of a broad array of institutional clients and professional asset allocators across alternative credit and capacity-constrained equity strategies, as well as through the management of broadly syndicated and middle-market CLO Funds. Our unique approach, based on the team's collective experience navigating market cycles, provides extensive insights across the capital structure and a skilled understanding of how to manage complex risk/reward tradeoffs through fundamental research.

About Hildred Capital Management

Hildred Capital Management, LLC is a New York-based private equity investment firm that pursues growth equity investments in lower middle market healthcare companies with leading products, technologies and services. Hildred focuses on opportunities to create value from earnings growth, operational improvements and multiple expansion in companies with revenues of $0 to $100 million. Areas with attractive fundamentals where Hildred may invest include the following healthcare subsectors: healthcare services, consumer products, information technology, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals; including the related industries that surround these healthcare subsectors. www.hildredcapital.com

About Alta Life Sciences

Alta Life Sciences Spain I FCR (ALSS I FCR) is a venture capital fund that invests in companies in all their stages of development: from financing through seed capital to business growth, and in all spheres of life sciences including biotechnology, medical devices, diagnosis, genomics and digital health. Altamar Private Equity SGIIC, a leading independent firm in the management of international private assets with approximately 8.5b of historically committed capital and assets under distribution is the managing company of ALSS I FCR and Alta Life Sciences, S.L., formed by leading professionals in the life sciences business, act as exclusive investment advisor. www.altals.com

About Parian Global

Parian Global is a fundamentally oriented investment manager focused on technology-enabled businesses in the healthcare and financial sectors. The firm seeks out opportunities created by innovation, strategic evolution, and structural change within these industries through investments in public and late-stage private companies.

About binx health

binx health is a healthcare technology and diagnostics company that makes routine testing convenient by enabling access to care where people live, work, study and shop. The Company works with large corporate partners and institutions who have access large patient populations and have a significant interest in delivering or facilitating better healthcare to provide access to and enable more streamlined delivery of diagnostic testing and care. Its omnichannel platform includes the point-of-care io platform which puts central-lab quality testing solutions in the hands of clinicians everywhere and the Company's suite of physician-mediated and medically guideline-driven, at-home sample collection offerings which bring high quality testing, population health tools and seamless digital integration capability to those unable or unwilling to visit a clinic location.

binx's FDA-cleared, CLIA-waived io platform is the first ever point-of-care tool for the detection of chlamydia and gonorrhea that provides central lab performance results in about thirty minutes. Its platform is highly flexible, easy-to-use, and rapid, offering molecular point-of-care answers at central-lab quality performance and for the first time enabling single-visit test and treatment. The Company is currently expanding its platform into COVID-19 testing by combining our proprietary electrochemical detection with CRISPR methods.

binx health Investor and Media Contacts:

Investors

Brendan Payne

Stern Investor Relations, Inc.

212-362-1200

[email protected]

Media

Paul Kidwell

Stern Investor Relations, Inc.

617-680-1088

[email protected]

SOURCE binx health, inc

Related Links

www.thinkinsideout.com


Rolls-Royce customer Airbus is ramping up production in expectation that the aerospace industry will get back to pre-pandemic levels sometime between 2023 and 2025.

( ), the aerospace engineer, has opened the doors on a new jet engine test-bed in Derby that cost 90mln to develop.

Rolls-Royce claims that the test-bed, which took three years to build, is the largest and most technologically advanced test-bed in the world.

The test-bed will be used to put current engines such as the Trent XWB and Trent 1000 through their paces but will also test the next generation of gas-turbine engines; these engines are based on Rolls-Royces UltraFan demonstrator technology and will use sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs)  the aerospace industrys to (at least partially) clean up its environmental act.

UltraFan is a scalable jet engine design is expected to generate fuel-efficiency improvements of 25% compared to the Rolls-Royce Trent engines. The UltraFan project is being backed by aeroplane manufacturing giant Airbus.

"As the new global hub of our testing capability, it will support the next stage of our UltraFan programme as we begin ground testing the first demonstrator in 2022, Rolls-Royce chief executive Warren East told reporters.

"This incredible piece of infrastructure is a very visible sign of our commitment to this site and secures the future of Derby as the home of large engine development, continuing a history that began in the late 1960s with the RB211, East said.

In other aerospace news, European aeroplane maker Airbus has announced it plans to crank up production in expectation of a recovery in air traffic levels to pre-pandemic levels by 2025.

Airbus said it intends to bump up the output of its A320neo by 12.5% to 45 units a month by the end of this year. Airbus hopes to increase output to 64 aeroplanes a month by the second quarter of 2023.

Airbus is budgeting for the commercial aircraft market to recover to pre-pandemic levels, perhaps as early as 2023 but hopefully no later than 2025.

If Airbus is correct then that would give a lift to Rolls-Royce, which provides engines to Airbus.

Shares in Rolls-Royce were trading 5.4% higher at 108.58p in afternoon trading.

European giant plane manufacturers, Airbus has outlined its expectation of production increase as the aviation industry recovers from the coronavirus pandemic which saw it falling into a halt globally.https://t.co/A7jZYA225Q  The Aviator Africa (@TheAviatorAfric) May 27, 2021

Rolls-Royce
WASHINGTON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the HBCU Green Fund's BIPOC (Black Indigenous People of Color) Climate Scholars Project working in collaboration with the Land Peace Foundation and ACE National Framework Initiative released a report, Justice40 Policy Brief, outlining recommendations for advancing the Biden/Harris Administration's Justice40 commitments.

Aligned with Biden Executive Order 14008 requiring a Justice40 report to be conveyed to OMB and CEQ May 27, the Justice40 Policy Brief was created from conversations captured during the recent BIPOC Climate Justice Dialogue that brought climate scholars and experts together with government officials in advance of President Biden's Climate Conference this past April.

The report points out that addressing climate change demands a different kind of governance and suggests that the Justice40 commitment can be transformative by incorporating BIPOC leadership and investing in disadvantaged communities. It also states that BIPOC climate experts center justice and equity as primary goals or optimal drivers for just climate solutions.

Suggestions for the U.S. Federal Government to achieve Justice40 goals include:

Allocate at least 40% of investments, not benefits, in all climate action directly to BIPOC-led projects and communities. Establish effective interagency coordination and government processes that incorporate the guidance and participation of BIPOC leadership. Collaboratively create a system of transparency and accountability for requesting, awarding, and reporting of financial flows and resources under the Justice40 Initiative. Meaningfully engage Environmental Justice (EJ) communities in the design of performance metrics for the Environmental Justice Scorecard and the Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool.

While the recommendations that came out of the Dialogue convey a sense of optimism about the potential for Justice40 to be transformative, participants in the BIPOC Climate Justice Dialogue expressed concern over current governmental inadequacies demonstrated in serving disadvantaged communities.

"This report summarized thoughts and ideas from scholars and experts from communities of color that have been instrumental in centering justice and equity as essential to effective climate policy. The HBCU Green Fund and other climate justice advocates hope to see recommendations from this Brief addressed," said Felicia Davis, founder of HBCU Green Fund.

Climate leaders that participated in the BIPOC Climate Justice Dialogue about national climate goals and priorities include: Mustafa S. Ali, Elizabeth Yeampierre, Richard S. Gragg, Denise Fairchild and Sherri Mitchell. Government officials included: Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry, White House National Climate Advisor Gina McCarthy, Senator Edward Markey, Congresswoman Alma Adams, and Deputy Director for Energy Justice Shalanda Baker.

The report can be downloaded at http://bipocscholars.org.

ABOUT HBCU GREEN FUND

The HBCU Green Fund promotes investment in sustainable campus solutions, interdisciplinary sustainability curriculum development, student and faculty engagement and just climate policy with a focus on historically black colleges and universities.

ABOUT LAND PEACE FOUNDATION

The Land Peace Foundation (LPF) is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the Indigenous way of Life, which includes: the protection and preservation of Indigenous land, water, religious and/or spiritual rights; proliferation of cultural and traditional practices; strengthening of kinship roles, and; preservation of ceremonial ways of being.

ABOUT BIPOC CLIMATE SCHOLARS PROJECT

The BIPOC Climate Scholars Project is established as a resource hub activating a national network of Black, Indigenous, Latinx and Asian/Pacific climate scientist and policy experts eager to advise, conduct and support research and implementation of public and private action to address climate change.

ABOUT U.S. ACTION FOR CLIMATE EMPOWERMENT COORDINATING TEAM

The ACE team promotes the alignment of climate education, workforce development, and civic engagement nationally to accelerate a just transition to a low carbon economy and coordinates multi-level participation in the development of an Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) Framework to advance the US national strategy as articulated in UNFCCC and Article 12 of the Paris Agreement.

Contact: Edrea Davis

Phone: 770.961.6200/818.613.9521 (cell)

SOURCE HBCU Green Fund
Schweizer was elected in a process in which every one of the nearly 1,500 managing director & partners had an equal vote in the firm's CEO election, reflecting BCG's unique model of governance and partnership.

"I'm incredibly grateful to our partners for the trust they've placed in me to lead this world-class organization as we enter a new chapter of unprecedented change, challenge, and opportunity for our clients and for the world," said CEO-elect Schweizer. "It's an honor to build on Rich's incredible legacy of growth and expansion of capabilities, and in leading BCG with such integrity. As a firm, we will continue to support clients and global leaders in their moments of truth and in solving their most important and complex problems, to attract and champion diverse talent, and to tackle the world's toughest challenges, such as climate change."

Schweizer served as head of BCG's global practice areas from 2014 to 2017 and as global head of the firm's Health Care practice from 2011 to 2014. Since joining BCG in 1997, Schweizer has developed a proven track record of growing and transforming major international businesses, particularly across the health care industry and with private equity firms. Today, he is responsible for 23 countries that make up 30% of firm revenues, including 39 offices and several specialty businesses, such as BCG Platinion and INVERTO, and has successfully led and expanded BCG's reach and impact in the region. He has served as a member of the firm's Executive Committee and Operating Committee since 2014. He holds an MBA from the University of Texas at Austin and a BA from WHU  Otto Beisheim School of Management in Koblenz. Schweizer lives in Munich with his wife and three children.

Lesser to Become Global Chair

Schweizer, who will be BCG's seventh CEO in its 58-year history, will succeed Rich Lesser, who will become global chair after completing three terms and nearly nine years as CEO.

"As our next CEO, Christoph brings integrity, vision, and bold leadership to help our clients successfully navigate out of the global crisis and thrive in the new reality. I've had the pleasure of working closely with Christoph as he has successfully built strong, diverse teams and robust, resilient businesses in a wide range of countries around the world, as well as cutting-edge capabilities in our practices," said Lesser. "It's been an honor to lead BCG, and I look forward to continuing to serve our clients, our people, and our purpose as global chair."

Lesser has led a major expansion of BCG, tripling the firm's business and more than doubling its workforce to over 22,000 employees during his tenure. The firm has expanded its footprint from 42 to 51 countries, with a major emphasis on diversity and inclusion in all its markets. Today, women represent 44% of BCG's global staff and 35% of its Executive Committee; the number of female managing director & partners has grown at almost three times the rate of male managing director & partners.

Central to BCG's success has been a rapid expansion in capabilities. BCG is now a clear leader in helping companies capture value from digital and analytics. The firm launched and scaled BCG Digital Ventures to collaborate with clients to build and accelerate the growth of digital business, and BCG GAMMA to deliver cutting-edge advanced analytics, machine-learning, and AI capabilities. BCG Platinion brings industry-leading technology know-how to support digital transformations in partnership with BCG's sector and function teams. Today, client activities embedding technology, digital, and analytics now represent nearly 40% of BCG's revenues, up from less than 10% a decade ago.

Lesser has championed BCG's pioneering leadership on climate change, including its industry-first commitment to reach net-zero impact by 2030, the launch of the BCG Center for Climate & Sustainability, and serving as the consultancy partner for COP26. Lesser serves as the chief advisor to the World Economic Forum's Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders.

Lesser also oversaw the creation of BCG TURN, a rapid performance acceleration unit; the launch of BCG's now nearly $2 billion Principal Investor and Private Equity practice; the acquisition of BrightHouse, a pioneer in business purpose consulting; the launch of the BCG Henderson Institute think tank; and the launch of the Center for Public Impact, the not-for-profit foundation. He has accelerated BCG's strong investments in social impact through its long-standing global partnerships, like the World Food Programme, Save the Children, and the World Wildlife Fund, along with collaborations with hundreds of NGOs and other organizations across the world. For more on Rich Lesser, please visit: https://www.bcg.com/en-us/about/people/experts/rich-lesser.

BCG's current chairman, Hans-Paul Burkner, will assume the role of managing director and global chair emeritus.

For further information, please contact Eric Gregoire at +1 617 850 3783 or [email protected].

About Boston Consulting Group

Boston Consulting Group partners with leaders in business and society to tackle their most important challenges and capture their greatest opportunities. BCG was the pioneer in business strategy when it was founded in 1963. Today, we work closely with clients to embrace a transformational approach aimed at benefiting all stakeholdersempowering organizations to grow, build sustainable competitive advantage, and drive positive societal impact.

Our diverse, global teams bring deep industry and functional expertise and a range of perspectives that question the status quo and spark change. BCG delivers solutions through leading-edge management consulting, technology and design, and corporate and digital ventures. We work in a uniquely collaborative model across the firm and throughout all levels of the client organization, fueled by the goal of helping our clients thrive and enabling them to make the world a better place.

SOURCE Boston Consulting Group (BCG)

Related Links

www.bcg.com


The state-of-the-art Grimbergen Abbey Brewery will bring brewing back to where it all started when the abbey was founded nearly 900 years ago. It's also the first time in 200 years that beers have been brewed inside the walls of the abbey, with beer-making ceasing after the building was destroyed during the French Revolution.

The Abbey Brewery will serve as an innovation hub, combining brewing traditions drawn from the ancient books of the abbey's library with new and innovative techniques to craft unique limited-edition batches of exceptional premium beers.

To celebrate, Grimbergen has released three exciting new brews  Grimbergen Magnum Opus Brut Beer, Grimbergen Ignis Quadruple and Grimbergen Astrum Pale Ale.

Speaking from the launch of the Abbey Brewery Cees 't Hart, CEO of Carlsberg Group, who are the global licensees of Grimbergen, said: "It is a treat to be here at the beginning of Grimbergen's next chapter and to experience what we believe will enrich the future of Belgian beer.

"Grimbergen is at the very heart of our growing portfolio of craft and speciality beer and it is contributing to the strong double-digit growth we're seeing in the category. The new Abbey Brewery is an important step for us in continuing to develop our speciality brews to meet growing worldwide demand. We believe this beautiful Abbey Brewery will take us, and beer drinkers around the world, on an incredible journey of flavour discovery."

The Abbey Brewery was built in a close partnership between the Grimbergen Abbey and Carlsberg Group. Father Karel Stautemas, Provisor at the Abbey, was instrumental in building the new facility and has joined the brewing team as Abbey Brewer. When Covid allows, he will complete his brewing qualifications, allowing him and his fellow fathers to continue the legacy of generations of Fathers before him.

Father Karel said: "The new microbrewery is a place to reignite past traditions, just like our symbol the Pheonix we always have the strength to rise again, but to add fresh thinking too. We want to combine our experience, nearly nine centuries of it, with innovation in pursuit of the most delicious and unique new brews. I think that the microbrewery allows us to do that, to explore and experiment with styles and ingredients in a really exciting way."

Father Karel combines his day-to-day monastic life with the running of the Abbey Brewery, supporting Master Brewer Marc-Antoine Sochon, who has also been heavily involved in bringing the new brewery to life.

Marc-Antoine, a 28-year-old brewing wunderkind from France who began brewing in his parents' garage and has since gone on to study both wine making and brewing, added: "We are now brewing beer in the abbey for the first time again in over 200 years, a great celebration for the Fathers, for the Grimbergen community and for all those who love Grimbergen beer.

"We are setting a marker for Belgian beers worldwide. The new brewery allows us to craft batches of delicious beers inspired by new and old brewing techniques to create brand-new sensory experiences. These new brews will provide fans of Grimbergen and others with the chance to journey through amazing new tastes and flavours that could only be conceived in the unique surrounds of Grimbergen Abbey."

Grimbergen Abbey Brewery also features an on-site bar and restaurant giving visitors the opportunity to savour the rich brews and pair them with dishes from the restaurant Fenikshof. Later this year, Grimbergen will also open a Brewery Experience Centre that will give visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves into the rich heritage of Grimbergen and the magic behind its innovation.

For more information about Grimbergen Abbey Brewery and Grimbergen beers, visit grimbergen.com.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1518925/Grimbergen.jpg

SOURCE Grimbergen
The expansion will focus on the addition of 68,000 square feet of manufacturing space to accommodate new equipment that will increase plant capacity. This investment also includes increasing the workforce at the Williamsburg plant by 250 employees.

FSIP is a leading global supplier of air suspensions for the EV industry. Firestone air suspensions not only help improve ride comfort and handling, but also can increase electric vehicle range and help protect batteries from road impact and overheating. This new chapter in EV automotive was born from a decades' long history of designing and supplying parts to the majority of commercial vehicle manufacturers in North America. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the company has supplied product to keep these essential services providers moving.

"With the increase in vehicle electrification, Firestone air suspension systems are in high demand among the most innovative and forward-thinking original equipment manufacturers globally," said Emily Poladian, president, Firestone Industrial Products. "Firestone air suspensions are optimally designed with electric vehicles in mind. Compared to traditional coil spring suspensions, our air suspensions are designed to help improve the handling and comfort of heavier electric vehicles and can even help improve EV range by lowering the vehicle to help improve aerodynamics. Advanced air suspensions are increasingly a 'must-have' technology on premium electric vehicles, and Firestone is committed to maintaining its leadership in this exciting and important market."

Parts for the commercial transportation vehicle market (truck, trailer and bus) and automotive vehicle markets are produced at the Williamsburg Plant which is the only full U.S. manufacturer of this product category. The company's other U.S. plant is located in Dyersburg, Tennessee, where air springs are assembled. FSIP designs, tests, and manufactures air suspensions at its location in Williamsburg, Kentucky, as well as in Brazil, China, Costa Rica and its newly expanded facility in Poland. FSIP's North America Advanced Technical Design Center in Fishers, Indiana, enables the company to remain agile and focus on speed to market which is a key requirement of start-up EV companies.

"As we continue to work toward a brighter future for all Kentuckians, I want to thank Firestone Industrial Products for its commitment to Whitley County, the Eastern Kentucky region and the commonwealth as a whole," Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said. "This company has been an important corporate partner in our state for decades, and this investment by Firestone in support of the emerging electric vehicle market ensures that will continue to be the case for years to come. Thank you to the company's leadership for furthering their commitment to Kentucky."

FSIP purchased the building and land located in Williamsburg in 1988. The Williamsburg Plant is currently 375,000 square feet. It is one of the largest employers in the area with more than 500 employees. Williamsburg Plant employees embody the company's global corporate social responsibility commitment, Our Way to Serve, with initiatives in community support, education and environmental conservation and preservation.

FSIP also manufactures Ride-Rite, Airide, Airide Pro, Airogear and Marsh Mellow air springs.

For more company news, visit www.BridgestoneAmericas.com.

About Bridgestone Americas, Inc.:

Nashville, Tennessee-based Bridgestone Americas, Inc. is a subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, a global leader providing sustainable mobility and advanced solutions. Bridgestone Americas develops, manufactures and markets a diverse portfolio of original equipment and replacement tires, tire-centric solutions, mobility solutions, and other rubber-associated and diversified products that deliver social value and customer value. Guided by its global corporate social responsibility commitment, Our Way to Serve, Bridgestone is dedicated to shaping a sustainable future of mobility and improving the way people move, live, work and play.

SOURCE Bridgestone Americas, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.bridgestoneamericas.com


WINCHESTER, Va., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- After more than a year of adhering to strict safety measures to help tamp down the spread of the virus, Bridging the Gaps (BTG) is finally able to ease some of its protocols and restart services that were temporarily restricted or delivered virtually. BTG has a reputation throughout the Winchester, Virginia, area for putting the health and safety of clients first. The drug and alcohol rehab center is excited to be in the process of lifting restrictions and allowing clients to, once again, make the face-to-face connections that can so effectively enhance their recovery journey.

Bridging the Gaps

BTG quickly instated safety measures at the onset of the pandemic to reduce the risk of virus contraction among clients and staff. The addiction treatment center reports that not a single client contracted the virus. While BTG remained open, it adopted a hybrid in-person and telehealth treatment model in order to deliver its addiction treatment services to clients. The shift to virtual treatment posed challenges for staff and clients, but the BTG community adapted quickly.

In fact, BTG's implementation of telehealth care was so successful that the rehab will continue to offer this service going forward to clients who do not live locally but prefer BTGs' treatment model. The restrictions impacted many clients who preferred the in-person treatment modalities, so the move to remove these limiting factors is sure to meet with excitement among clients who are anxious to return to some semblance of normalcy in a post-pandemic Virginia.

While BTG will continue to offer telehealth services as it lifts pandemic restrictions, it is in the process of restoring its IOP and OP services for in-person clients. BTG Executive Director Pam Reiman understands that for many clients, "that person-to-person connection is imperative for successful recovery."

She adds that the addiction treatment center will continue to put the health and safety of clients first. Staff will also assist clients who wish to receive vaccines in order to reduce the risks to the community. She believes that by remaining fluid and flexible, "BTG will be able to respond successfully to future health and safety concerns."

BTG features various programs designed to help clients manage their addiction to drugs or alcohol. It offers both residential and outpatient treatment programs in order to meet the diverse needs of its clientele in and near Winchester, VA. More than 24 million Americans are struggling with a substance abuse disorder. With high-quality treatment, clients can develop the strategies they need to manage their addiction and prevent relapse.

BTG would like to thank its clients and care team for supporting its safety protocols and navigating the pandemic together with positivity and a hopeful outlook. Ms. Reiman is proud of the community's flexibility and is eager to move into "post-pandemic opportunities that can enhance clients' recovery experiences and promote sustained quality of life."

If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to alcohol or drugs near Winchester, VA, contact BTG for help. It features multiple treatment programs to suit each client's recovery needs.

Contact:

Trevor Gage

5403065416

[email protected]

SOURCE Bridging the Gaps
CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Carolinas AGC Foundation Scholarship program was put into place to assist individuals studying for careers in the construction industry as well as those wishing to advance their skills and knowledge to further their construction careers. The Scholarship committee distributed $12,000 to eight very deserving students who will no doubt be great assets to our industry!

Mackenzie Donnelley: $6,000 Winner

Mackenzie will be a student at Midlands Technical College this Fall where she will continue her education in Applied Science in Welding Technologies. Mackenzie is a graduate of River Bluff High School where she was the collision repair student of the year in 2019 and the welding student of the month in December 2020. She is looking forward to giving back to her community and speaking to young kids, especially girls, about a career in this trade.

Jacob Fournier: $2,000 Winner

Jacob is a student at Clemson University and is expected to graduate Spring 2022 with a degree in Construction Science Management. Before transferring to Clemson, he was a student at Tri County Tech. Jacob has interned at Mashburn Construction (summer of 2019) & Hitt Contracting (summer of 2020). Jacob hopes in the future to help turn around the misconception of our industry by helping with construction programs in high schools.

Zebulon Sweet: $1,500 Winner

Zeb is a former scholarship award winner (2019) that has moved from Blue Ridge Community College to the Construction Management program at Western Carolina University. Zeb has gone from intern to part-time worker at R.E. Burns & Sons where he has been a laborer since 2017. By the time he graduates he hopes to be a supervisor at R.E. Burns. He was introduced to the construction industry by his dad who also has his degree in construction management.

$500 Scholarship Winners:

Austin Shook- Construction Management Program at Appalachian State University

Alaina Pruette  Construction Science & Management Program at Clemson University

Courtney Baker  Construction Management Program at East Carolina University

Kyle Smith  Construction Management Program at East Carolina University

Matthew Diamantis  Business/Finance Program at UNC-Wilmington

Congratulation to these winners, and all the candidates for choosing a career in such an exciting and rewarding industry!

For more information regarding the winners (including photos) and the CAGC Foundation Scholarship program, please visit www.cagc.org or call Chelsea Andujar at 704/372-1450 ext. 5229. To learn about CAGC's Build Your Career initiative, visit www.buildyourcareer.us.

SOURCE CAGC Foundation

Related Links

http://www.cagc.org


NEW YORK, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- One of the world's oldest university libraries and home to one of the world's great collections of cultural treasures and research materials, Cambridge University Library today announced its acquisition of Stephen Hawking's archive of scientific and personal papers.

The acquisition results from a partnership with the University, Britain's Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Arts Council England, the London-based Science Museum Group, and the Hawking Estate.

One of the most renowned scientists of the last century and beloved by millions across the world for his contributions to science and to popularizing science, Hawking leaves a legacy that transcends scientific and popular culture. His achievements are even more impressive given his decades-long battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), diagnosed while he was a Cambridge University PhD student. He was later appointed Lucasian Professor of Mathematics at Cambridge, a position he held for three decades.

Professor Hawking's papers now join those of his idol Sir Isaac Newton and of Charles Darwin at the Cambridge University Library, bringing together three of the most critical scientific archives in history under one roof, freely accessible to scholars and scientists of today and tomorrow.

The Hawking archive contains letters dating from the 1940s, a first draft of A Brief History of Time, scripts from his appearances in The Simpsons, and autographed scientific manuscripts from the early phase of his brilliant career. Also included is a major collection of photographs, papers and his correspondence with popes, U.S. presidents, and such Nobel Prize winning scientists as Kip Thorne and Roger Penrose.

Cambridge University Librarian Dr Jessica Gardner said: "The archive allows us to step inside Stephen's mind and to travel with him round the cosmos to, as he said, 'better understand our place in the universe.' This vast archive gives extraordinary insight into the evolution of Stephen's scientific life, from childhood to research student, from disability activist to ground-breaking, world-renowned scientist. I am so grateful that the Hawking family and the AIL scheme have entrusted us with this precious archive."

Artifacts such as Hawking's wheelchairs, speech synthesisers, and personal memorabilia from his former Cambridge office will be housed at the Science Museum with the intention to display some objects in 2022.

For more information about the acquisitions, please find the full announcement here.

Photos and video are available upon request by contacting [email protected].

About Cambridge University Library

Cambridge University Library (the UL) is one of the world's oldest university libraries  and home to one of the world's great collections of cultural treasures and research materials.

Since its first recorded beginnings in 1416 as a small chest of manuscripts for Cambridge scholars, the Library is now home to a physical collection of nearly ten million books, maps, manuscripts, photographs, and priceless objects, spanning thousands of years of human thought and discovery, in more than 2,000 languages from a 4,200-year-old Sumerian clay tablet to 19th and 20th century posters demanding equal rights for women. Alongside the works of Newton, Darwin, and Shakespeare  and some of the world's earliest fragments of the Quran  is one of the most comprehensive collections of British books anywhere in the world.

www.lib.cam.ac.uk



Follow us on Twitter , Facebook , Instagram and Google Arts and Culture.

SOURCE Cambridge in America

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DALLAS, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- High-stakes trial lawyer Mark Werbner is honored in the Chambers USA 2021 legal guide for his work involving commercial litigation in Texas. It's a recognition he has earned since 2013.

Published by London-based Chambers and Partners, the Chambers USA guide is considered the gold standard for business law firms. Selections are based on a rigorous search process that includes interviews with clients and lawyers. Criteria include technical legal ability, client service, professional conduct and other qualities valued by clients.

"Mark Werbner is a seasoned litigator with notable experience handling disputes in the banking and finance sector. 'A great trial lawyer with numerous jury cases under his belt. He's a great lawyer,'" said one of the sources interviewed by Chambers researchers. To learn more about Mr. Werbner, visit https://werbnerlaw.com/lawyer/mark-werbner/

Known for his role in a high-profile trial where he secured a historic jury verdict against a Middle Eastern bank for providing material financial support to terrorists, Mr. Werbner has handled approximately 150 jury trials in his more than 30-year career and has secured some of the largest jury verdicts in the country.

More recently, he was part of a legal team that won a False Claims Act case against Texas Heart Hospital of the Southwest. Mr. Werbner also represented a Forest Park Medical Center founding physician accused in a high-profile fraud and kickback scheme.

Often recognized by his legal peers as one of the most accomplished trial attorneys in the nation, Mr. Werbner has a long list of accolades. For years, he's been recognized by The Best Lawyers in America, Benchmark Litigation and Texas Super Lawyers.

A co-founder of Dallas' successful Sayles Werbner law firm, he launched Werbner Law on March 1 after a two-year stop at Winston & Strawn to focus on business, commercial and personal injury litigation as well as white-collar criminal defense.

About Werbner Law

Mark Werbner has an international reputation as a "go-to" trial attorney in multifaceted business litigation, white-collar criminal defense, health care fraud, securities fraud and other areas of the law. To learn more, visit https://werbnerlaw.com.

Media Contact:

Sophia Reza

800-559-4534

[email protected]

SOURCE Werbner Law

Related Links

https://werbnerlaw.com


NEW YORK, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Chubb announced today that its innovative Chubb Rule of Law Fund, supported by 15 law firms and the Chubb Charitable Foundation, has awarded four new grants, totaling $1.1 million, to projects that promote equity and advance racial justice.

Since it was established in 2008, the Chubb Rule of Law Fund has made 66 grants to support projects around the world that promote the preservation and advancement of the rule of law. The projects range from supporting the development of rules-based legal systems, independent and knowledgeable judiciaries and anti-corruption measures to improving administrative procedures and access to legal services.

With this group of newly funded projects, the Chubb Rule of Law Fund has strengthened its focus on combating racism in America's justice system, with support going to initiatives that are working to improve police and community relations, and to understand and reduce racial inequities throughout the criminal justice process.

"Events unfolding across our nation in the last year have further focused our attention on what more Chubb can do to fight racial injustice. Funding Chubb Rule of Law Fund projects that combat racial injustice in our legal system is part of this effort. The organizations and programs we are supporting are doing important work to improve police and community relations and promote a more just criminal justice system," said Joseph Wayland, Executive Vice President, Chubb Group and General Counsel. "As Chubb strives to create a culture of anti-racism, we recognize that we, as a company and as individuals, cannot be bystanders. Our support for philanthropy and citizenship, including this new round of Chubb Rule of Law Fund projects, is one way we are advancing this goal."

The new project commitments are:

Equal Justice USA was awarded a $250,000 grant to expand its Newark, N.J.-based police-training program, Trauma to Trust, to Baton Rouge, La. Trauma to Trust is an innovative program that increases empathy, understanding, trust and accountability between community residents and police officers. Over multiple sessions, police and community members work with a trained facilitator to learn how historical and personal trauma affects their interactions and perceptions of one another, building trust and fairness in community policing. This is the fund's second grant to Equal Justice USA for the Trauma to Trust program.

The Policing Project at NYU Law School was awarded $350,000 for two projects to reform policing practices. In Chicago, the grant will support expansion of successful community policing practices that enhance accountability, problem solving and increased positive contact between police officers and neighborhood residents, seeking to transform the dynamic between the Chicago Police Department and the communities it serves. The grant will help to develop the program as a model for other cities. The grant will also support the organization's First Response project, which is in the process of developing state-of-the-art protocols for responding to emergency 911 calls to reduce the likelihood of inadvertent, unnecessary, or disproportionate use of force.

The Vera Institute of Justice was awarded $250,000 to support Motion for Justice, a program that works with prosecutors to reduce racial inequities throughout the criminal justice process. The Institute is working with prosecutors in counties in seven states, and funding from Chubb will be used to expand the program to reach an additional 10 prosecutors across the country.

The Southern Center for Human Rights was awarded $250,000 to develop a data model and database to provide an empirical basis to assess the impact of race in the administration of criminal justice in Georgia and Alabama. Chubb's grant will cover the full cost of creating this database.

These recently funded projects build upon the fund's ongoing support for racial justice initiatives. Last year, the Chubb Rule of Law Fund awarded additional grants to two organizations working to combat bias in the judicial system. The Pennsylvania Innocence Project was awarded a grant to help it fulfill its mission to address racial disparities in the criminal justice system by seeking to amend state law to provide for greater transparency of police misconduct and access to records of police investigations. And Community Legal Services of Philadelphia was awarded a grant for a program focused on reforming occupational licensing laws, which often prevent people with criminal records from obtaining professional licenses, which disproportionately affect poor minority communities.

The 15 law firms that support the fund, sharing Chubb's vision of collaboration between in-house and outside counsel to advance the rule of law globally, are: Clyde & Co; Cozen O'Connor; Debevoise & Plimpton; DLA Piper; Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani; Jackson Lewis P.C.; Kennedys; Lewis Brisbois; London Fischer; Norton Rose Fulbright; O'Melveny & Myers; Paul, Weiss; Sullivan & Cromwell; White and Williams; and Wilson Elser.

About Chubb

Chubb is the world's largest publicly traded property and casualty insurance company. With operations in 54 countries and territories, Chubb provides commercial and personal property and casualty insurance, personal accident and supplemental health insurance, reinsurance and life insurance to a diverse group of clients. As an underwriting company, we assess, assume and manage risk with insight and discipline. We service and pay our claims fairly and promptly. The company is also defined by its extensive product and service offerings, broad distribution capabilities, exceptional financial strength and local operations globally. Parent company Chubb Limited is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: CB) and is a component of the S&P 500 index. Chubb maintains executive offices in Zurich, New York, London, Paris and other locations, and employs approximately 31,000 people worldwide. Additional information can be found at: www.chubb.com.

About the Chubb Charitable Foundation

The Chubb Charitable Foundation supports U.S.-based non-profit organizations through grant-making and projects aligned with defined focus areas including education, the environment, and poverty and health. The Foundation believes that meaningful contributions that support our communities globally provide lasting benefits to society, to Chubb and to Chubb employees. Through philanthropy, global partnerships and company sponsored-volunteer activities focused on giving the gift of time and donations, the Chubb Charitable Foundation supports clearly defined projects that solve problems with measurable and sustainable outcomes, helping people in the countries where we live and work build productive and healthy lives.

SOURCE Chubb

Related Links

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CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Signature Wealth Group (an independent organization aligned with Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC) is pleased to announce that Chuck Foresyth, CFP, (Wealth Advisor, RJFS), has joined the practice in the Charlotte, NC branch office.

"With the addition of Chuck to our Charlotte practice, we continue to build our team and expand our bandwidth to deliver wealth management services and our unique suite of financial solutions to more investors and businesses in the community," said John Chidwick, Executive Vice President, National Sales, SWG and Senior Wealth Advisor, RJFS.

A 20-year financial services industry veteran and Certified Financial Planner, Chuck Foresyth brings his extensive experience in estate planning, mutual funds, annuities, education planning, and portfolio construction to Signature Wealth Strategies. Before entering the financial services industry, Chuck served in the U.S. Army as a paratrooper and multilingual interrogator serving in Bosnia and Russia. Chuck previously held key industry leadership roles at Putnam Investments, Lincoln Financial Distributors, and Ivy Investments throughout the Southeast. Today, his focus is on working with corporations, families, and non-profit organizations in wealth accumulation, wealth preservation, and wealth distribution.

"I'm thrilled to join the Signature Wealth team," Chuck said, "I'll continue to deliver financial solutions to individuals and businesses in the growing and thriving Charlotte community." He added, "My years of customer-focused leadership and service are a perfect match with the values and continued growth of Signature Wealth Strategies."

Formed in 2017 with one goal in mind  to build an advisor-led company that allowed advisors to focus on clients rather than back-office operations, Signature Wealth Group manages more than $1.9 billion in assets and operates 12 branches across 3 states in the Southeast. To learn more about Signature Wealth Group, visit signaturewealth.com .

521 East Morehead Street, Suite 150, Charlotte, NC 28202 | (704) 333-6441. Signature Wealth Group is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory Services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc.

Media Contact: Bobbie Adkins, Chief Marketing Officer, Signature Wealth Group, [email protected]

SOURCE Signature Wealth Group
The bank issued the warning to its mobile banking customers after reporting that it had received record numbers of complaints about crypto scams in the first three months of 2021

Banking giant PLC ( ) has warned its customers to watch out for scams involving Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies amid a surging number of complaints.

The bank is reportedly warning its mobile banking customers to make sure they have control of their own cryptocurrency wallets as well as to be wary of individuals promising large profits in the crypto markets.

The warning follows NatWest saying it had received a record number of complaints regarding crypto scams between January and March, according to the BBC, around the same time that Bitcoin exploded in value and brought it to mainstream attention.

The alert on the banks mobile banking app also warned that customers could lose all of their money if they fall victim to a crypto scam, echoing similar statements from financial regulators including governor Andrew Bailey.

Bitcoin resurgence, as well as the recent price crash in crypto markets last week, has reignited regulatory scrutiny of digital currencies as watchdogs across the world scramble to regain control of the mostly unregulated market.

Earlier this week, the UKs Advertising Standards Authority banned an ad campaign from crypto exchange Luno telling the public that it is time to buy Bitcoin, saying the adverts gave the impression that Bitcoin investment was straightforward and accessible and did not sufficiently indicate that digital currency was complex, volatile, and could expose investors to losses.

In late afternoon trading in London on Thursday, Bitcoin was up 2.8% in the last 24 hours at US$40,263, giving it a market cap of US$753.7bn.
With unemployment benefits poised to end soon, leading security services company posts thousands of part-time, full-time job openings

ST. LOUIS, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - GardaWorld, a global leader in integrated security services is hiring to fill thousands of jobs across the United States as public and community spaces continue to reopen and many businesses begin to bring employees back to work.

As one the largest privately owned security companies in the world, GardaWorld offers extensive opportunities to individuals looking to gain experience and develop professionally in a fast-growing and essential industry.

The company is seeking applicants for part-time and full-time armed and unarmed security guards. Responsibilities range and may include delivering high customer service, problem-solving and providing situational awareness assessments.

"As more states lift restrictions, community spaces reopen, and companies return to work, there's a huge need to get security personnel on the ground to guard access points, increase situational awareness, resolve disputes, and protect people, properties, and other valuable assets," said Mark Porterfield, Chief Security Officer, Security Servicesat GardaWorld. "The pandemic really brought public health and safety to the forefront and this is the time for companies to be evaluating and rethinking their security strategies."

"Over the course of the pandemic, we saw a lot of people changing jobs and exploring new career opportunities," added Demarcus Dotson. "At GardaWorld, we offer a strong sense of purpose in your work, a multitude of career pathways, and strategic opportunities for growth. It's a great place to start your new career because we provide on-the-job training and ongoing skills development to help take you where you want to go."

GardaWorld offers flexible schedules, training and career growth opportunities, and diverse work assignments spanning multiple industries. The company employs its own training program designed by security experts to help employees develop the skills necessary to advance their careers.

Job opportunities are available across the country, including in Georgia, Missouri, Florida, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, Indiana, Arizona and Oklahoma.

To learn more about GardaWorld and its available positions, visit https://securityjobsus.garda.com. GardaWorld is an equal opportunity employer.

About GardaWorld

GardaWorld is one of the largest privately owned integrated security, cash solutions and risk management companies in the world. Guided by its values of integrity, vigilance, trust and respect, GardaWorld has over 122,000 dedicated professionals serving over 35,000 clients in 45 countries around the world. GardaWorld and its subsidiaries are uniquely positioned and resourced to support the security needs of its clients, whether locally or globally. The company offers its services through brands such as GardaWorld Security Services, GardaWorld Cash Services, BEST Crowd Management, ECAMSECURE, TalentWorld and Crisis24. For more information, visit https://www.garda.com/

SOURCE GardaWorld Security Corporation

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TSX.V: DME

U.S. OTC: DMEHF

Frankfurt: QM01

VANCOUVER, BC, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - DESERT MOUNTAIN ENERGY CORP. (the "Company") (TSXV: DME) (OTC-QX: DMEHF) (FRA: QM01) From the President of the Company.

Desert Mountain Energy Corp is pleased to announce the following corporate update including final numbers from the completed forced conversion of 2 series of 2 year, $2 warrants attached to the Company's October 2020, $1.60 unit financing.

$2.00 warrants exercised totaled 7,953,062 realizing $15,906,124

Shares currently outstanding 70,110,909

Warrants outstanding 4,082,266

Options outstanding 5,267,500

Fully diluted shares, warrants and options 79,460675

Total Cash currently in the treasury $28,970,078.80

The Company would like to thank all investors involved in the October 2020 financing for their support.

Desert Mountain Energy Corp. is planning on building a vertically integrated helium producer located in the Holbrook Basin, AZ. Currently, the Company is drilling well #4.

ABOUT DESERT MOUNTAIN ENERGY

Desert Mountain Energy Corp. is a publicly traded exploration and resource company focused on the discovery and development of rare earth gas fields in the U.S. The Company is primarily looking for elements deemed critical to the renewable energy and high technology industries.

We seek safe harbor

"Robert Rohlfing"

Robert Rohlfing

Chairman & CEO

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in polices of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The statements made in this press release may contain certain forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual events or results may differ from the Company's expectations.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forwardlooking statements and information herein include but are not limited to statements regarding the Company's anticipated performance in the future the planned exploration activities, receipt of positive results from drilling, the completion of further drilling and exploration work, and the timing and results of various activities.

Forward-looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company and its operations to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements. Such factors include, among others, changes in national and local governments, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in Canada and the United States; financial risks due to helium prices, operating or technical difficulties in exploration and development activities; risks and hazards and the speculative nature of resource exploration and related development; risks in obtaining necessary licenses and permits, and challenges to the Company's title to properties.

Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including but not limited to the continued operation of the Company's exploration operations, no material adverse change in the market price of commodities, and such other assumptions and factors as set out herein. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or information, there may be other factors that cause results to be materially different from those anticipated, described, estimated, assessed or intended. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Company does not intend to, and does not assume any obligation to update such forward-looking statements or information, other than as required by applicable law.

SOURCE Desert Mountain Energy Corp.

Related Links

https://desertmountainenergy.com/


During graduation season in May, Desert Financial Credit Union hosted the 17th Annual Community Service and 3rd Annual Adult Learners Scholarship awards in intimate virtual ceremonies with friends and family. The Community Service Scholarship program is open annually to all members of the credit union and their related family members attending community colleges and universities in Arizona.

"Supporting education and lifelong learning is central to our mission of sharing success," said Jeff Meshey, President and CEO at Desert Financial. "We know investing in education builds strong communities and as an institution founded by educators, we're more than happy to do our part," he added.

During the ceremony for the Community Service Scholarship, 20 students received scholarships, which ranged from $2,500 to $10,000. Each student had completed at least 50 hours of community service, for a total of 2,641 hours. In addition, they enjoyed surprise gifts and announcements. Their scholarships would be eligible for renewal in their sophomore year with continued community service, and each student also received an iPad and other supplies to assist with college coursework.

"I've been a Girl Scout for many years and helped at homeless shelters and the Boys & Girls Clubs," said Amaya Jones, who just graduated from Deer Valley High School and plans to attend Northern Arizona University to study veterinary science. "Community service has helped to humble me and shape me into who I am today. The scholarship from Desert Financial will help take some of the weight off my parents' shoulders," she said.

Students interested in learning more about the application for the 2022 Community Service Scholarship program can visit the website for more details. The application will be open beginning in January 2022. Application requirements include:

Completing 50+ hours of community service in 2021

A 3.0+ cumulative GPA

Plan to attend an in-state college or university in the fall

Desert Financial member (or related to a member)

Show a demonstrated financial need based on Expected Family Contribution (EFC) from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Support for Adult Learners

Adult Learners Scholarship recipients included longtime Desert Financial Credit Union member and devoted family man, Dominic Turner, of Glendale. He received a $2,000 Adult Learners Scholarship, plus an extra $3,000 awarded in a random drawing before the ceremony for a total of $5,000 in scholarship funds.

Turner plans to pursue a doctoral degree in clinical psychology and hopes to serve the needs of those in his community, especially Black men.

"I mention my race only because mental health and counseling are undervalued in my community," he says. "My theory is because there are not enough individuals like myself in the field to represent the underrepresented. I want to serve the underserved and provide a face that is not normally seen in the mental health field," he said.

For a list of Adult Learners Scholarship recipents and their plans, click here. Contact Diane Meehl at 480-651-4654 to be connected to scholarship recipients for media stories about these ambitious adult learners.

About Desert Financial Credit Union

Celebrating more than 80 years in Arizona, Desert Financial is the state's most trusted local credit union with $7 billion in assets, 350,000+ members and 47 branches. Membership eligibility is open across Arizona with contactless solutions via eBranch, making it easy to call, click or come in. As a not-for-profit cooperative, Desert Financial takes pride in sharing success. In 2020, Desert Financial gave more than $5 million in COVID-19 relief and safety measures, donations, scholarships and Random Acts of Kindness to our members, community and team. In 2021, Desert Financial awarded $14 million to its members through the Member Giveback Bonus. Learn more about the credit union difference at desertfinancial.com or connect with us @desertfinancial.

SOURCE Desert Financial Credit Union

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CAMBRIDGE, Mass., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Disc Medicine, Inc. announced today that it has entered into an exclusive worldwide licensing agreement with F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd for the development and commercialization of bitopertin, an orally administered GlyT1 inhibitor with demonstrated effects on the heme biosynthesis pathway. Disc Medicine intends to develop bitopertin as a treatment for hematologic diseases, initially for erythropoietic porphyrias (EP), a family of rare, debilitating and potentially life-threatening disorders caused by dysregulated heme biosynthesis in developing red blood cells.

"This collaboration is a major milestone in establishing Disc Medicine as a leader in hematology and enables us to target heme synthesis, a fundamental biological pathway of red blood cells that is highly complementary to our existing programs in iron homeostasis," said John Quisel, J.D., Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of Disc Medicine. "Importantly, the well-established clinical safety profile of bitopertin will allow us to move rapidly into patient studies of several serious, hematologic diseases."

Under the terms of the agreement, Disc Medicine will obtain exclusive, global rights to and be responsible for all development, manufacturing, and commercialization of bitopertin and related back up compounds. Roche will receive an upfront payment from Disc Medicine and potential development, regulatory, and commercial milestones totaling in excess of $200 million. Roche is also eligible to receive tiered royalties based on net revenues, at a rate ranging from the high single digits to high teens, and a proportion of proceeds from future transactions related to bitopertin. Disc will engage with regulatory authorities to initiate patient studies in 2022.

About Erythropoietic Porphyrias

Erythropoietic porphyrias (EPs) are a family of ultra-rare, debilitating and potentially life-threatening diseases caused by mutations that affect the heme synthesis pathway. This results in the toxic accumulation of porphyrins that are activated when patients are exposed to sunlight and cause oxidative damage to surrounding tissues. EPs are characterized by severe cutaneous sensitivity that manifests as attacks of intense, burning pain, associated with blistering, edema and disfigurement that often persist. Patients also develop gastrointestinal complications from accumulation of porphyrins, including gallstones and liver failure in 5-20% of patients. There is no approved disease-modifying therapy and the only cure is hematopoietic stem cell transplant. The current approach to patient care involves taking extreme measures to avoid daylight, such as restricting outdoor activities to nighttime or using protective clothing and opaque shields, and management of pain. The first signs typically manifest in early childhood and are lifelong, having a major impact on the well-being, psychosocial development and daily lives of patients and their caregivers. Erythropoietic porphyrias comprise three subtypes: Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), X-linked protoporphyria (XLPP), and Congenital Erythropoietic Porphyria (CEP).

About Bitopertin



Bitopertin is a clinical-stage, orally administered small molecule inhibitor of glycine transporter 1 (GlyT1). Glycine is an essential precursor for heme biosynthesis and GlyT1 is required to maintain adequate levels of intracellular glycine in developing erythrocytes. As a modulator of heme synthesis, bitopertin has the potential to provide benefit for a range of disorders caused by imbalances in the production of heme and its pathway intermediates. Bitopertin has been evaluated in over 4,000 healthy volunteers and patients in over 30 clinical trials across multiple indications, including several Phase 2 and 3 trials in psychiatric disorders and in a rare blood cell disorder and has a well-defined safety profile. Although CNS efficacy was not established in these studies, bitopertin demonstrated marked effects on heme synthesis. Moreover, in preclinical studies conducted by Disc Medicine, inhibition of GlyT1 by bitopertin was shown to decrease levels of the metabolites that are the underlying cause of EP. Bitopertin is an experimental agent and is not approved for use as a therapy in any jurisdiction worldwide.

About Disc Medicine

Disc Medicine is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to transforming the lives of patients with hematologic disorders. We are building a unique portfolio of innovative, first-in-class therapeutic candidates that affect fundamental pathways of red blood cell biology. We are committed to developing treatments that empower and bring hope to the many patients who suffer from hematologic diseases. For more information, please visit www.discmedicine.com.

SOURCE Disc Medicine

Related Links

http://www.discmedicine.com


Dodge and The LEGO Group have announced a second LEGO Speed Champions collaboration pairing the two iconic brands. The new LEGO Speed Champions Mopar Dodge//SRT Top Fuel Dragster and 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A building set, featuring the first purple vehicle and first Top Fuel Dragster in the Speed Champion series, is being released on June 1, 2021, on LEGO.com.

"Owning, or aspiring to own, a Dodge muscle car is as much about the lifestyle of joining the Brotherhood of Muscle as it is about the vehicle purchase," said Tim Kuniskis, Dodge Brand Chief Executive Officer  Stellantis. "As a result, our brand enthusiasts are passionate about all things Dodge, including the latest cool collectibles. So, following the success of the Dodge 2018 LEGO Speed Champion building set, fans will now be able to build and show off not only the first ever 8-inch-wide (8W) muscle car, but also the first ever Plum Crazy 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A, along with an incredibly detailed 13-long Top Fuel Dragster."

"In 2021, we are extremely excited to reteam with Dodge and expand the Speed Champions 8W Vehicle Collection even further by including new vehicle types and building experiences, for the first time, that appeal to vehicle fans of all ages," said Christopher Stamp, LEGO Design Lead.

With 627 pieces, the Dodge set featuring the 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A and the Mopar Dodge//SRT Top Fuel Dragster includes box art of their real-life counterparts to compare the LEGO creations with the real-life machines.

Packed with realistic details, the LEGO Speed Champions Mopar Dodge//SRT Top Fuel Dragster and 1970 Dodge Challenger replica models deliver a rewarding building experience for fans of all ages, great for display and awesome to race. The collectible toy vehicles in the building set come with a wide chassis, which allows for more detailing with decorative stickers, including the two miniature figures donning Dodge apparel and race helmets.



Highlights:

1970 Dodge Challenger T/A is the first purple vehicle in LEGO Speed Champions series (named official Dodge color Plum Crazy)

One female Top Fuel Dragster driver in Dodge race suit

One male Challenger driver in Dodge-branded casual clothing

Mopar Dodge//SRT is over 4 inches (10 cm) high, 13.5 inches (35 cm) long and 2.5 inches (7 cm) wide

Dodge Challenger T/A is over 2 inches (5 cm) high, 5 inches (16 cm) long and 2.5 inches (7 cm) wide

This new building set pairing the two brands follows the LEGO Speed Champions building set that features the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon and the 1970 Dodge Charger R/T, which launched in January 2019.

The LEGO Group

The LEGO Group's mission is to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow through the power of play. The LEGO System in Play, with its foundation in LEGO bricks, allows children and fans to build and rebuild anything they can imagine.



The LEGO Group was founded in Billund, Denmark in 1932 by Ole Kirk Kristiansen, its name derived from the two Danish words LEg GOdt, which mean "Play Well". Today, the LEGO Group remains a family-owned company headquartered in Billund. However, its products are now sold in more than 130 countries worldwide. For more information: www.LEGO.com

Dodge//SRT

For more than 100 years, the Dodge brand has carried on the spirit of brothers John and Horace Dodge. Their influence continues today as Dodge shifts into high gear with muscle cars and SUVs that deliver unrivaled performance in each of the segments where they compete.

2021 marks the year that Dodge is distilled into a pure performance brand, offering Hellcat-powered, 700-plus-horsepower SRT versions of every model across the lineup. For the 2021 model year, Dodge delivers the drag-strip dominating 807-horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT Super Stock, the new 797-horsepower Dodge Charger SRT Redeye, the most powerful and fastest mass-produced sedan in the world, and the new 710-horsepower Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat, the most powerful SUV ever. Combined, these three muscle cars make Dodge the industry's most powerful brand, offering more horsepower than any other American brand across its entire lineup.

In 2020, Dodge was named the "#1 Brand in Initial Quality," making it the first domestic brand ever to rank No. 1 in the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Dodge brand also ranked No. 1 in the J.D. Power APEAL Study (mass market). These results are historic because it marks the first time a domestic brand has earned top spots in both J.D. Power studies in the same year.

Dodge is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellantis. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit www.stellantis.com.

Follow Dodge and company news and video on:

Company blog: http://blog.stellantisnorthamerica.com

Media website: http://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com

Dodge brand: www.dodge.com

DodgeGarage: www.dodgegarage.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/dodge

Instagram: www.instagram.com/dodgeofficial

Twitter: www.twitter.com/dodge and @StellantisNA

YouTube: www.youtube.com/dodge, https://www.youtube.com/StellantisNA

SOURCE Stellantis
JACKSON, Miss., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- EastGroup Properties (NYSE: EGP) announced today that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.79 per share payable on July 15, 2021 to shareholders of record of Common Stock on June 30, 2021. This dividend is the 166th consecutive quarterly distribution to EastGroup's shareholders and represents an annualized dividend rate of $3.16 per share. EastGroup has increased or maintained its dividend for 28 consecutive years. The Company has increased it 25 years over that period, including increases in each of the last nine years.

EastGroup Properties, Inc. (NYSE: EGP), an S&P MidCap 400 company, is a self-administered equity real estate investment trust focused on the development, acquisition and operation of industrial properties in major Sunbelt markets throughout the United States with an emphasis in the states of Florida, Texas, Arizona, California and North Carolina. The Company's goal is to maximize shareholder value by being a leading provider in its markets of functional, flexible and quality business distribution space for location sensitive customers (primarily in the 15,000 to 70,000 square foot range). The Company's strategy for growth is based on ownership of premier distribution facilities generally clustered near major transportation features in supply-constrained submarkets. EastGroup's portfolio, including development projects and value-add acquisitions in lease-up and under construction, currently includes approximately 48 million square feet.

EastGroup Properties, Inc. press releases are available at www.eastgroup.net.

SOURCE EastGroup Properties

Related Links

http://www.eastgroup.net


SINGAPORE, May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Envision Digital International Pte Ltd ("Envision Digital"), a global Net Zero partner and Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) technology leader, today announced a collaboration with the Port of Antwerp by its local European entities in Netherlands and France, to develop green port solutions to reduce amongst others, greenhouse gases (GHG) in ports. The collaboration named: 'Portable Innovation Open Network for Efficiency and Emissions Reduction Solutions (PIONEERS)' represents leading ports, terminal and transport operators, forwarders, knowledge institutes, technology developers, innovators, and public entities.

PIONEERS is a highly ambitious project, rethinking all aspects of port operations ranging from terminal operations, concession agreements, mobility, connectivity, fuels to models for cooperation and production, storage and use of energy. The actions include renewable energy generation and deployment of electric, hydrogen and methanol vehicles; building and heating networks retrofit for energy efficiency; implementation of circular economy approaches in infrastructure works; automation; and deployment of digital platforms to promote modal shift and ensure optimised vehicle, vessel and container movements.

Port of Antwerp will function as lighthouse port, hosting the majority of demonstrators and showcasing a real-life Green Port. The project will receive a 25 million grant from the European Horizon 2020 programme and has a timeframe of five years starting at the end of 2021. The ports of Barcelona, Constanta and the municipality of Venlo, as fellows, will play an active role in maximising the transferability of the solutions and are engaged to implement the best practices from the project.

This collaboration will leverage Envision Digital's EnOS AIoT technology to build a Port Digital Twin, modelling, simulating, optimising, and monitoring port activities, including logistics, maintenance, traffic and energy consumption. Harnessing both AI and IoT, the Digital Twin will integrate with other PORTable innovations at the Port of Antwerp, and focus on CO2 emissions, portal logistic multimodal asset flows and portal people flow.

In addition, Envision Digital will implement a complete intelligent Energy Management System (iEMS) with monitoring and optimisation for the Europort terminal in the port. The AIoT software will optimise and control smart charging of Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in connection with local grid metering and installed wind turbines, in order to optimise EV-charging, maximise green energy self-consumption and decarbonisation. Envision Digital's AI-based forecasting capabilities will also be leveraged to anticipate electricity demand and supply, as input into the overall electric system optimisation.

"Envision Digital is thrilled to support ambitious multi-dimensional optimisation of the port activities to drive better performance while reducing emissions," said Sylvie Ouziel, International President, Envision Digital. "Net Zero ports and Net Zero industry parks clearly constitute the 'next frontiers' for decarbonisation, and we are quite excited to be pioneering and partnering, in those spaces, together with prominent consortium members."

About Envision Digital:

Having set challenging individual goals for carbon neutrality, Envision Digital is committed to becoming the world's leading Net Zero technology partner for enterprises, governments and cities alike. Its world-class AIoT technology helps governments and companies across the world accelerate progress toward a Net Zero future and improve their citizens' quality of life. Having established itself as a leading solutions provider for intelligent renewable energy generation, consumption efficiency and smart and flexible storage, it has extended its capabilities beyond energy to enable and optimise applications  notably in smart cities, smart buildings and estates, smart plants, smart infrastructures and e-mobility.

EnOS, Envision Digital's proprietary AIoT operating system, connects and manages more than 100 million smart devices and 200 gigawatts of energy assets globally, while its growing ecosystem of more than 360 customers and partners spans 10 industries and includes Accenture, Amazon Web Services, GovTech Singapore, Keppel Corporation, Microsoft, Nissan, PTT, Sonnen, Solarvest and Total. The company has close to 700 employees and 12 offices across China, France, Japan, Germany, Norway, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States, with headquarters in Singapore.

For more information: https://envision-digital.com/

SOURCE Envision Digital International Pte Ltd
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Contact

BizVibe

Jesse Maida

Email: [email protected]

+1 855-897-5880

Website: https://www.bizvibe.com/

SOURCE BizVibe

Related Links

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In speaking about being captured on March 23, 2003, Lynch says, "My unit actually ended up becoming lost in the desert, so we separated half of us. We saw these lights and what we assumed was the rest of the convoy so instantly we perked up. At one point, we reached a hard top road and we had the decision to turn right, turn left, and unfortunately, some mistakes were made. We instantly knew that something was wrong. You just got that gloomy kind of dreading, dreadful feeling that came across every single one of us."

Lynch went on to describe the terrifying ambush by Iraqi forces. "Everywhere we looked our vehicles were being blown up in front of us, it was just a nightmare. At this point, I'm in the Humvee with my best friend [Lori] driving, my first sergeant in the passenger seat and two other soldiers we picked up sitting beside me. I remember the chaos the mostthe first sergeant trying to communicate with the commander, the first sergeant trying to tell [the driver] exactly where to go or what to do. She just drove and it didn't seem to bother her that there were bullets flying at us from every direction. I remember going as fast as we could and Lori swerving and then I remember nothing. I was knocked unconscious."

"Since I was the only survivor, it would have been nice to be able to tell other families exactly what had happened, but unfortunately, I just don't have that recollection. But I know afterwards through army investigation that we were pulled out of the vehicle, because Lori actually ended up hitting her head off of the steering wheel causing head trauma; even though she was basically brain dead, she was still moving her body. The three men  my first sergeant and the two men sitting beside me  were sadly shot and killed."

She goes on to explain, "Iraqis came around to determine who was KIA or who was still alive; they noticed that Lori and I were both still alive, so they took our basically lifeless bodies to one of Saddam's palaces. They stripped us of all our military gear and at that point is actually when they snapped my right humerus and broke that bone and then they took metal objects and broke my tibia. The femur we are not sure what really happened to, other than that it was broken. They ended up taking me from the palace and transporting me to the Saddam general hospital."

When asked how she survived in captivity, alone in the hospital with broken bones, unable to feel anything from the waist down and only able to move her left hand, Lynch recalls, "I knew that I wanted to keep going, but at the same time as the days kept clicking by it got harder and harder physically but also mentally to hang on to any kind of hope. But I think, for me it was just thinking about my family back home and what they were doing, or did they even know I was missing, little things like that I held onto; anything to make me smile or take my mind off of what I was going through."

Recalling the courageous rescue mission that captured the attention of the whole world, Jessica Lynch says, "I remember hearing the helicopters, the Humvees and the heavy artillery. I had been hopeful and was praying for the best so when that door opensit was just such a joyful feeling. One of the best moments was when one of the soldiers ripped off the American flag from his uniform and placed it inside of my left hand and he said, 'We're Americans and we're here to take you home.' And I will never forget his words. I have that American flag patch still."

When asked what she hopes other people learn from her experience, Jessica Lynch reflects, "Perseverance and being able to overcome any kind of obstacle that you are facing. I'm not the only one that has been through these obstacles or struggleswe all face trials and tribulations. It's just being able to find that strength within you. For me it was that perseverance, that never give up attitude, that I wanted to be able to hold on for one more day, that I wanted to be able to keep going. No matter what you are facing in life you're able to overcome it."

More than 18 years later, Lynch is still going to physical therapy twice a week due to her 2003 injuries. She is a substitute teacher in West Virginia, and has a 14 year old daughter who aspires to be a physical therapist.

A video of the webinar with the full interview is here in this link: https://youtu.be/rLYYS6LrmyU



Quotes and use of footage must be credited to: Long Island University's Global Service Institute.

About the Global Service Institute at Long Island University

The Global Service Institute's mission is to become the preeminent service initiative in education. The nonpartisan institute will foster important dialogue of complex global issues, while preparing and inspiring students and others to improve and change our world with new models of collaboration, innovation and social entrepreneurship. The long-term goals of the Institute are to touch the lives of 250 million people globally with service initiatives, perform 100 million hours of community service, support and highlight impactful research addressing global needs and develop 100,000 future leaders. Visit globalserviceinstitute.org for more information.

SOURCE Long Island University

Related Links

www.liu.edu


QUITO, Ecuador, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, four farmer producer organizations launched La Cosecha del Dia, Ecuador's first farmer-owned marketplace for agroecological food products. The online marketplace will help local farmers that are part of Heifer Ecuador's Future of Food program to increase the supply of fresh, safe, healthy food, to families across the country. La Cosecha del Dia sells goods produced by 400 mainly women small-scale producers from The Agroecological Solidarity Economy Network of the Kayambi Territory (RESAK) in Pichincha; The Association Pamar Chacrin of the Sigsig canton in Azuay province; The Network of Producers of Guayabillas of the Parish of Pacto in the northwest of Pichincha province; and The Association of Agroecological Producers (APA) in Azuay province.

The online marketplace offers 200 products, including vegetables, fruits, seafood, grains, flours, natural herbs, snacks and baked goods. Customers can see the full history and traceability of the products they purchase, increasing awareness of where their food comes from, while promoting local farmers who are producing high-quality, sustainable food.

"The pandemic revealed the environmental and equity issues with our food system. As an online store built and owned by farmers, La Cosecha del Dia guarantees farmers a fair price for their agroecological crops, while providing consumers with fresh, safe food," said Rosa Rodriguez, country director of Heifer Ecuador. "The marketplace will contribute to building a sustainable local food system that benefits farmers and consumers beyond the pandemic."

La Cosecha del Dia currently delivers to the cities of Quito and Cuenca, with plans to expand delivery to more cities across the country. Customers are able to schedule deliveries, with the food harvested on the day of delivery.

The online store emerged as a response to marketing demands during the COVID-19 pandemic when both farmers and consumers were affected by market disruptions. It was built by farmer producer organizations following standards that support sustainable food systems:

Quality : Food sold on the marketplace is produced on farms practicing agroecology, balancing soil cycles and free from chemicals. Consumers receive fresh fruits and vegetables that are harvested the day orders are received.

: Food sold on the marketplace is produced on farms practicing agroecology, balancing soil cycles and free from chemicals. Consumers receive fresh fruits and vegetables that are harvested the day orders are received. Environmental : The distribution and consumption of local food reduces emissions from transportation.

: The distribution and consumption of local food reduces emissions from transportation. Social Justice : Farmers are paid a fair price for their products that is affordable for consumers, supporting local farming families to improve their incomes.

: Farmers are paid a fair price for their products that is affordable for consumers, supporting local farming families to improve their incomes. Data Security: The marketplace is a secure way to shop for food online with a credit card.

At the beginning of the pandemic, the Heifer Ecuador Future of Food program expanded its network, following a request from the Government of Quito, setting up a food delivery service from local farms to urban areas. The program ensured sustainable incomes for farmers, who continued to sell their products while open-air marketplaces were closed, and food security for quarantined families. Designed and run by farmers and their organizations, the program brings harvested crops from local farms to collection centers, delivering fair prices for farmers by providing consumers with the ability to order affordable baskets of fresh, healthy food delivered safely to their doorsteps.

The Future of Food program is established in the Azuay, Pichincha, and Galapagos provinces. In the first two participating cities, 5,500 agroecological baskets have been delivered to-date.

Run by youth of the farmer producer organizations, La Cosecha del Dia will strengthen the commercial and technological capacities of the organizations involved in the platform, further supporting small-scale producers to grow their farm businesses.

For more information, visit http://www.lacosechadeldia.net/ or contact Kimberly Barbano at [email protected].

https://www.heifer.org/about-us/news/press/press-releases/farmer-owned-online-marketplace-ecuador.html

ABOUT HEIFER INTERNATIONAL

For 76 years, Heifer International has worked with more than 36 million people around the world to end hunger and poverty in a sustainable way. Working with rural communities in 21 countries in Africa, Asia, and the Americas, including the United States, Heifer International supports farmers and local food producers to strengthen local economies and build secure livelihoods that provide a living income. For information, visit https://www.heifer.org/.

SOURCE Heifer International

Related Links

http://www.www.heifer.org


Ltd ( ) (FRA:43M) is set to start diamond drilling and reverse circulation (RC) drilling at Aurora Tank Gold discovery in the highly prospective and underexplored Gawler Craton, near the Challenger Gold Mine in South Australia's Woomera Prohibited Defence Area.

The South Australian mining exploration company recently completed the upgrade of camp infrastructure at Aurora Tank, doubling its water storage capacity which is necessary for the diamond drilling program.

Accelerated Discovery Initiative

Marmota has also completed phase 2 of the new Accelerated Discovery Initiative (ADI), including high priority infill sampling of two new strong gold-in-calcrete anomalies that Marmota has just discovered.

Both new strong gold anomalies are in the tenements adjoining Marmotas Aurora Tank gold discovery and adjacent to the same shear zone as the discovery.

Phase 2 was considerably expanded from the around 500 auger drill holes originally planned to 846 auger drill holes after phase 1 biogeochemical assay results yielded multiple additional anomalous targets.

Some of the biogeochemical gold anomalies appear to be coincident with the gold-in-calcrete anomalies.

Strong gold-in-calcrete anomalies

In March 2021, Marmota completed phase 1 sampling of 1,768 individual new sample locations, covering about 300 square kilometres of ground, extending outwards from the gold discovery at Aurora Tank to the surrounding tenements.

At each sample location, both a calcrete sample (geochemical) and tree leaf sample (biogeochemical) were taken.

The new anomalies are in the Woorong Downs (west) tenement, roughly midway between the Challenger Gold Mine (to the west) and Marmotas Aurora Tank gold discovery.

Both Challenger and Aurora Tank were found by testing near-surface calcrete for anomalous gold, an indicator of gold below surface.

The new gold anomalies are adjacent to the same NE shear zone as the Aurora Tank discovery where Marmota has yielded multiple 1-metre intersections over 100 g/t gold, all close to surface, including most recently, its best-ever result of 165 g/t gold over 1-metre (about 57 metres from surface).

New assay results for the Woorong Downs ADI calcrete sampling yielded two new strong gold-in-calcrete anomalies, namely 40 ppb gold and 27 ppb gold (on a 400 metres grid).

The highest ever gold-in-calcrete result recorded at the Aurora Tank (Goshawk) discovery was 38 ppb gold, including all detailed infill sampling down to a 50-metre grid size.

These anomalous gold samples also feature elevated levels of copper, bismuth, molybdenum and uranium, which are likely to assist target identification once the infill sampling results are available.

Phase 2 assay results

The extent of such overlay will be vastly more apparent when the phase 2 assay results are received with the significantly increased density of data arriving.

All phase 2 samples (calcrete and biogeochemical) have been dispatched to the respective laboratories.

The company looks forward to receiving assays as a priority, albeit noting that the labs are extremely busy at the moment.

New board appointments

Marmota announced some board changes in May 2021, following the departure of Dr Kevin Wills as executive director (exploration) and Shane Barker as executive director (production).

Dr Wills will, however, continue to advise the company on its exploration program in his new role as consulting geologist, including at the Aurora Tank discovery and the new Jumbuck project.

The new appointments include Neville Bergin as non-executive director (production) and Aaron Brown as executive director (exploration).

Bergin is a mining engineer with more than four decades of experience in the mining industry, primarily in operations in the gold sector, with both open pit and underground operational experience.

Brown is an exploration geologist with more than 17 years of experience, exploring for gold, uranium, copper and nickel across a range of terrains in South Australia, particularly in the Gawler Craton, the Northern Territory and WA.

He joined Marmota in 2017 as senior geologist and has been working together with Dr Wills in driving the development of the Aurora Tank discovery.

Jumbuck Gold Project

On November 30, 2020, the company entered into a binding agreement with ( ) to acquire all of the rights, title and interest of Tyranna in the Jumbuck Gold Project, adjacent to Marmotas ground.

Subject to any remaining conditions precedent being satisfied, Marmota expects the transaction to complete in this quarter.

Marmota chairman Dr Colin Rose said: The Jumbuck Gold Project is our immediate neighbour in the Gawler Craton.

"It is our backyard. It is where we do our gold exploration. Our exploration team know the ground.

"We believe that if anyone can make it work, Marmota can."

Champion Copper Prospect

Its 2017 drilling program at 100%-owned Champion Copper Prospect returned multiple copper intersections greater than 0.3% copper, extending copper mineralisation over 1 kilometre along strike and up to 300 metres wide.

Champion Copper (EL 5832) is on the Yorke Peninsula in South Australia, about 50 kilometres north of Rex Minerals Ltds ( ) (OTCMKTS:RXRLF) Hillside Copper-Gold Deposit.

With the completion of drilling, the focus for Marmota has now shifted back to its gold program.

Junction Dam Uranium Project

The Junction Dam project, 10 kilometres east of s Honeymoon uranium mine (a 1.2 million tonnes indicated resource) and 50 kilometres west of Broken Hill, adjoins Marmotas Mulyungarie project (EL5124).

In 2009, the company entered into a joint venture agreement with s subsidiary, Teck Australia Pty Ltd, and Variscan Mines and Eaglehawk Geological Consulting Pty Ltd for the exploration of uranium on the project.

Marmota has:

 JORC Inferred Resource of 5.4 million pounds U 3 O 8 with average grade of 557ppm U 3 O 8 ;

 Overall exploration target of 2233 million pounds U 3 O 8 at about 400 to 700 ppm U 3 O 8 ; and

 Assay grades of up to 8,143 ppm U 3 O 8 at the Saffron deposit.

The MEU board recently commenced a strategic review of its uranium assets to add value to shareholders.

Marmota is particularly well-placed for an upturn in the uranium sector, with an existing uranium JORC resource that the company spent millions of dollars to develop in prior years, and which is located adjacent to one of only four permitted mines in Australia.
NASHVILLE, Tenn., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ --

First Quarter Fiscal 2022 Financial Summary

Net sales increased 93% from last year to $539 million

Net sales increased 9% over the first quarter two years ago with stores open about 90% of days

GAAP operating income increased 71% over first quarter two years ago

Non-GAAP operating income increased 125% over first quarter two years ago

Comparable direct sales increased 43%

Inventory down 23%

GAAP EPS from continuing operations was $0.60 vs. ($9.54) last year and $0.36 two years ago

vs. last year and two years ago Non-GAAP EPS from continuing operations was $0.79 1 vs. ($3.65) last year and $0.33 two years ago

Genesco Inc. (NYSE: GCO) today reported GAAP earnings from continuing operations per diluted share of $0.60 for the three months ended May 1, 2021, compared to a loss from continuing operations per diluted share of ($9.54) in the first quarter last year and earnings from continuing operations of $0.36 per diluted share two years ago. Adjusted for the Excluded Items in all periods, the Company reported first quarter earnings from continuing operations per diluted share of $0.79, compared to a loss from continuing operations per diluted share of ($3.65) last year and earnings from continuing operations of $0.33 per diluted share two years ago.

Mimi E. Vaughn, Genesco board chair, president and chief executive officer, said, "Fiscal 2022 is off to a very strong start with a first quarter that meaningfully exceeded our expectations. Our momentum has been building each quarter following the disruption from COVID-19 last year and trends accelerated as the first quarter progressed. Our outperformance was driven by better than anticipated results at every division, led by record first quarter revenue and profitability at Journeys. The momentum from the first quarter has continued into May. Even as the pandemic continued to impact our business to varying degrees, our exceptional performance reflects the strong competitive positions of our retail and branded concepts and the traction we are experiencing with the footwear focused strategy we embarked on a couple of years ago, combined with a boost from U.S. government stimulus and pent-up demand as the economy reopened."

_____________________ 1Excludes fees related to the shareholder activist, retail store asset impairments and expenses related to the new headquarters building, net of tax effect in the first quarter of Fiscal 2022 ("Excluded Items"). A reconciliation of earnings/loss and earnings/loss per share from continuing operations in accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ("GAAP") with the adjusted earnings/loss and earnings/loss per share numbers is set forth on Schedule B to this press release. The Company believes that disclosure of earnings/loss and earnings/loss per share from continuing operations adjusted for the items not reflected in the previously announced expectations will be meaningful to investors, especially in light of the impact of such items on the results.

"Our multi-year performance leading up to the outbreak of COVID-19, which featured 11 consecutive quarters of positive comparable sales growth for our footwear businesses, and our results during the pandemic, put us in a position of strength. Our organization has done an outstanding job capitalizing on the recent opportunities to positively transform our business at a faster pace, including developing a more advanced, more profitable digital channel, reshaping the cost structure of our store fleet, and strengthening our consumer connections. With a strong balance sheet, we are well positioned to further invest in growth, and create even greater value for our shareholders."

Thomas A. George, Genesco interim chief financial officer, commented, "We were very pleased that the first quarter continued the sequential improvement of our operating results since the onset of the pandemic, as our top and bottom lines far outpaced last year's levels and exceeded first quarter fiscal 2020 two years ago. Record first quarter digital revenue combined with improving store results fueled significant expense leverage, leading to higher operating income and first quarter adjusted EPS of $0.79 compared to $0.33 in fiscal 2020."

Store Re-Opening Update

As of May 27, 2021, the Company is operating in 96% of its locations, including approximately 1,100 Journeys, 160 Johnston & Murphy and 123 Schuh locations.

First Quarter Review

Net sales for the first quarter of Fiscal 2022 increased 93% to $539 million from $279 million in the first quarter of Fiscal 2021. This sales increase was driven by increased store sales resulting from store closures in the back half of the first quarter last year due to the COVID -19 pandemic, digital comp growth of 43% and increased wholesale sales. Stores were open about 90% of possible days in the first quarter this year as compared to 50% in the first quarter last year. As a result of store closures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company has not included first quarter comparable sales for this year or last year, except for comparable direct sales, as it feels that overall sales is a more meaningful metric for these periods. Comparable direct sales for the first quarter of Fiscal 2022 were 43% as compared to 64% for the first quarter of Fiscal 2021.

Overall sales were up 123% at Journeys, up 46% at Schuh, up 26% at Johnston & Murphy and up 84% at Licensed Brands. Overall sales were up 9% compared to the first quarter two years ago, with Journeys sales up 16% and Licensed Brands sales up 122%, partially offset by an 11% decrease in Schuh sales and a 35% decrease in Johnston & Murphy sales.

First quarter gross margin this year was 47.8%, up 480 basis points, compared with 43.0% last year and down 160 basis points compared with 49.4% in Fiscal 2020. The decrease as a percentage of sales as compared to Fiscal 2020 is due primarily to higher shipping and warehouse expense in our retail businesses as well as the mix of our businesses partially offset by decreased markdowns at Journeys. The higher shipping and warehouse expense in our retail businesses is driven by the increase in penetration of e-commerce as compared to Fiscal 2020.

Adjusted selling and administrative expense for the first quarter this year decreased 2,360 basis points as a percentage of sales compared with last year and decreased 340 basis points compared with Fiscal 2020. Such decrease is due primarily to reduced occupancy expense as well as reduced selling salaries partially offset by increased performance based compensation expense. The reduction in occupancy expense is driven by rent abatement agreements with landlords and government relief programs.

Genesco's GAAP operating income for the first quarter was $15.5 million, or 2.9% of sales this year, compared with an operating loss of $(156.0) million, or (55.9)% of sales last year, and an operating income of $9.1 million, or 1.8% of sales in the first quarter of Fiscal 2020. Adjusted for the Excluded Items in all periods, operating income for the first quarter was $18.8 million this year compared to an operating loss of $(69.5) million last year and an operating income of $8.4 million in the first quarter of Fiscal 2020. Adjusted operating margin was 3.5% of sales in the first quarter of Fiscal 2022, (24.9)% last year and 1.7% in the first quarter of Fiscal 2020.

The effective tax rate for the quarter was 40.1% in Fiscal 2022 compared to 14.1% last year and 30.7% in the first quarter of Fiscal 2020. The adjusted tax rate, reflecting Excluded Items, was 35.7% in Fiscal 2022 compared to 26.8% last year and 31.3% in the first quarter of Fiscal 2020. The higher adjusted tax rate for this year as compared to last year reflects the inability to recognize a tax benefit for certain foreign losses and a higher mix of earnings in jurisdictions where the Company generates taxable income.

GAAP earnings from continuing operations were $8.9 million in the first quarter of Fiscal 2022, compared to a loss from continuing operations of $(134.6) million in the first quarter last year and earnings from continuing operations of $6.5 million in the first quarter of Fiscal 2020. Adjusted for the Excluded Items in all periods, first quarter earnings from continuing operations were $11.6 million, or $0.79 per share, in Fiscal 2022, compared to a loss from continuing operations of $(51.4) million, or ($3.65) loss per share, last year and earnings from continuing operations of $5.9 million, or $0.33 per share, in the first quarter of Fiscal 2020.

Cash, Borrowings and Inventory

Cash and cash equivalents at May 1, 2021, were $258.0 million, compared with $238.6 million at May 2, 2020. Total debt at the end of the first quarter of Fiscal 2022 was $44.2 million compared with $222.7 million at the end of last year's first quarter reflecting increased borrowings in the first quarter last year as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Inventories decreased 23% in the first quarter of Fiscal 2022 on a year-over-year basis and decreased 18% versus the first quarter of Fiscal 2020.

Capital Expenditures and Store Activity

For the first quarter, capital expenditures were $12 million, related primarily to digital and omnichannel initiatives. Depreciation and amortization was $11 million. During the quarter, the Company opened one store and closed 17 stores. The Company ended the quarter with 1,444 stores compared with 1,479 stores at the end of the first quarter last year, or a decrease of 2%. Square footage was down 2% on a year-over-year basis.

Share Repurchases

The Company did not repurchase any shares during the first quarter of Fiscal 2022. The Company currently has $90 million remaining on the $100 million board authorization from September 2019.

Fiscal 2022 Outlook

Due to the continued uncertainty in the overall economy driven by COVID-19, the Company is not providing guidance at this time.

Conference Call, Management Commentary and Investor Presentation

The Company has posted detailed financial commentary and a supplemental financial presentation of first quarter results on its website, www.genesco.com, in the investor relations section. The Company's live conference call on May 27, 2021, at 7:30 a.m. (Central time), may be accessed through the Company's website, www.genesco.com. To listen live, please go to the website at least 15 minutes early to register, download and install any necessary software.

Safe Harbor Statement

This release contains forward-looking statements, including those regarding the performance outlook for the Company and all other statements not addressing solely historical facts or present conditions. Forward- looking statements are usually identified by or are associated with such words as "intend," "expect," "believe," "anticipate," "should," "optimistic" and similar terminology. Actual results could vary materially from the expectations reflected in these statements. A number of factors could cause differences. These include adjustments to projections reflected in forward-looking statements, including those resulting from the effects of COVID-19 on the Company's business, including COVID-19 case spikes in locations in which the Company operates, additional store closures due to COVID-19 and expected timing for store reopenings, weakness in store and shopping mall traffic, timing of in person back-to-work and back-to-school and sales with respect thereto, expectations regarding the COVID-19 vaccine rollout and acceptance, restrictions on operations imposed by government entities and/or landlords, changes in public safety and health requirements, and limitations on the Company's ability to adequately staff and operate stores. Differences from expectations could also result from store closures and effects on the business as a result of civil disturbances; the level and timing of promotional activity necessary to maintain inventories at appropriate levels; the imposition of tariffs on product imported by the Company or its vendors as well as the ability and costs to move production of products in response to tariffs; the Company's ability to obtain from suppliers products that are in-demand on a timely basis and effectively manage disruptions in product supply or distribution, including disruptions as a result of COVID-19; unfavorable trends in fuel costs, foreign exchange rates, foreign labor and material costs, and other factors affecting the cost of products; the effects of the British decision to exit the European Union and other sources of market weakness in the U.K. and Republic of Ireland; the effectiveness of the Company's omnichannel initiatives; costs associated with changes in minimum wage and overtime requirements; wage pressure in the U.S. and the U.K.; weakness in the consumer economy and retail industry; competition and fashion trends in the Company's markets; risks related to the potential for terrorist events; risks related to public health and safety events; changes in buying patterns by significant wholesale customers; retained liabilities associated with divestitures of businesses including potential liabilities under leases as the prior tenant or as a guarantor; and changes in the timing of holidays or in the onset of seasonal weather affecting period-to-period sales comparisons. Additional factors that could cause differences from expectations include the ability to renew leases in existing stores and control or lower occupancy costs, and to conduct required remodeling or refurbishment on schedule and at expected expense levels; the Company's ability to realize anticipated cost savings, including rent savings; the Company's ability to achieve expected digital gains and gain market share; deterioration in the performance of individual businesses or of the Company's market value relative to its book value, resulting in impairments of fixed assets, operating lease right of use assets or intangible assets or other adverse financial consequences and the timing and amount of such impairments or other consequences; unexpected changes to the market for the Company's shares or for the retail sector in general; costs and reputational harm as a result of disruptions in the Company's business or information technology systems either by security breaches and incidents or by potential problems associated with the implementation of new or upgraded systems; the Company's ability to realize any anticipated tax benefits; and the cost and outcome of litigation, investigations and environmental matters involving the Company. Additional factors are cited in the "Risk Factors," "Legal Proceedings" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" sections of, and elsewhere in, the Company's SEC filings, copies of which may be obtained from the SEC website, www.sec.gov, or by contacting the investor relations department of Genesco via the Company's website, www.genesco.com. Many of the factors that will determine the outcome of the subject matter of this release are beyond Genesco's ability to control or predict. Genesco undertakes no obligation to release publicly the results of any revisions to these forward-looking statements that may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Forward-looking statements reflect the expectations of the Company at the time they are made. The Company disclaims any obligation to update such statements.

About Genesco Inc.

Genesco Inc., a Nashville-based specialty retailer and branded company, sells footwear and accessories in more than 1,440 retail stores throughout the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland, principally under the names Journeys, Journeys Kidz, Little Burgundy, Schuh, Schuh Kids, Johnston & Murphy, and on internet websites www.journeys.com, www.journeyskidz.com, www.journeys.ca, www.littleburgundyshoes.com, www.schuh.co.uk, www.johnstonmurphy.com, www.johnstonmurphy.ca, www.nashvilleshoewarehouse.com, and www.dockersshoes.com. In addition, Genesco sells footwear at wholesale under its Johnston & Murphy brand, the licensed Levi's brand, the licensed Dockers brand, the licensed Bass brand, and other brands. For more information on Genesco and its operating divisions, please visit www.genesco.com.

-30-

GENESCO INC.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(in thousands, except per share data)

(Unaudited)





























Quarter 1

Quarter 1









May 1, % of

May 2, % of









2021 Net Sales

2020 Net Sales



Net sales



$ 538,695 100.0%

$ 279,232 100.0%



Cost of sales

281,033 52.2%

159,088 57.0%



Gross margin

257,662 47.8%

120,144 43.0%



Selling and administrative expenses 239,465 44.5%

189,042 67.7%



Goodwill impairment

- 0.0%

79,259 28.4%



Asset impairments and other, net 2,670 0.5%

7,861 2.8%



Operating income (loss) 15,527 2.9%

(156,018) -55.9%



Other components of net periodic benefit income (39) 0.0%

(124) 0.0%



Interest expense, net

729 0.1%

856 0.3%



Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before













income taxes

14,837 2.8%

(156,750) -56.1%



Income tax expense (benefit) 5,943 1.1%

(22,126) -7.9%



Earnings (loss) from continuing operations 8,894 1.7%

(134,624) -48.2%



Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax (16) 0.0%

(153) -0.1%



Net Earnings (Loss)

$ 8,878 1.6%

$(134,777) -48.3%























Basic earnings (loss) per share:













Before discontinued operations $ 0.62



$ (9.54)





Net earnings (loss)

$ 0.62



$ (9.55)

























Diluted earnings (loss) per share:













Before discontinued operations $ 0.60



$ (9.54)





Net earnings (loss)

$ 0.60



$ (9.55)

























Weighted-average shares outstanding:













Basic



14,287



14,110





Diluted



14,702



14,110

























GENESCO INC.

Sales/Earnings Summary by Segment

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)





















Quarter 1

Quarter 1





May 1, % of

May 2, % of





2021 Net Sales

2020 Net Sales



Sales:













Journeys Group $ 376,548 69.9%

$ 168,925 60.5%



Schuh Group 68,711 12.8%

47,165 16.9%



Johnston & Murphy Group 48,762 9.1%

38,849 13.9%



Licensed Brands 44,674 8.3%

24,293 8.7%



Net Sales $ 538,695 100.0%

$ 279,232 100.0%



Operating income (loss):













Journeys Group $ 33,124 8.8%

$ (37,083) -22.0%



Schuh Group (3,847) -5.6%

(15,086) -32.0%



Johnston & Murphy Group (3,180) -6.5%

(9,584) -24.7%



Licensed Brands 2,561 5.7%

(2,501) -10.3%



Corporate and Other(1) (13,131) -2.4%

(12,505) -4.5%



Goodwill Impairment - 0.0%

(79,259) -28.4%



Operating income (loss) 15,527 2.9%

(156,018) -55.9%



Other components of net periodic benefit income (39) 0.0%

(124) 0.0%



Interest, net 729 0.1%

856 0.3%



















Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before













income taxes 14,837 2.8%

(156,750) -56.1%



Income tax expense (benefit) 5,943 1.1%

(22,126) -7.9%



Earnings (loss) from continuing operations 8,894 1.7%

(134,624) -48.2%



Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax (16) 0.0%

(153) -0.1%



Net Earnings (Loss) $ 8,878 1.6%

$(134,777) -48.3%



















(1)Includes a $2.7 million charge in the first quarter of Fiscal 2022 which includes $2.3 million for legal fees related to the shareholder activist and $0.4 million for retail store asset impairments. Includes a $7.9 million charge in the first quarter of Fiscal 2021 which includes a $5.3 million charge for trademark impairment and a $3.0 million charge for retail store asset impairments, partially offset by a $(0.4) million gain for the release of an earnout related to the Togast acquisition.











GENESCO INC.



Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets



(in thousands)



(Unaudited)









































May 1, 2021

May 2, 2020



Assets













Cash and cash equivalents



$ 258,044

$ 238,574



Accounts receivable



61,124

55,259



Inventories



301,017

391,803



Other current assets (1)



117,467

49,372



Total current assets



737,652

735,008



Property and equipment



208,759

227,058



Operating lease right of use assets

639,575

692,489



Goodwill and other intangibles



70,056

66,579



Other non-current assets



21,558

33,934



Total Assets



$ 1,677,600

$ 1,755,068



















Liabilities and Equity













Accounts payable



$ 164,975

$ 175,232



Current portion long-term debt



-

23,741



Current portion operating lease liabilities

173,528

164,723



Other current liabilities



112,648

66,328



Total current liabilities



451,151

430,024



Long-term debt



44,169

198,939



Long-term operating lease liabilities

555,204

615,400



Other long-term liabilities



48,068

34,883



Equity



579,008

475,822



Total Liabilities and Equity



$ 1,677,600

$ 1,755,068



















(1)Includes prepaid income taxes of $92.1 million at May 1, 2021.



















GENESCO INC. Store Count Activity













































Balance





Balance







Balance

02/01/20 Open Close

01/30/21

Open Close

05/01/21 Journeys Group 1,171 8 20

1,159

0 16

1,143 Schuh Group 129 1 7

123

0 0

123 Johnston & Murphy Group 180 4 6

178

1 1

178 Total Retail Units 1,480 13 33

1,460

1 17

1,444













































GENESCO INC. Comparable Sales





































Quarter 1















May 1,

May 2,















2021(1)

2020(1) Journeys Group













NA

NA Schuh Group













NA

NA Johnston & Murphy Group













NA

NA Total Comparable Sales













NA

NA





















Same Store Sales













NA

NA Comparable Direct Sales













43%

64%





















(1)As a result of store closures in response to COVID-19 during the first quarter of Fiscal 2021, the Company has not included comparable sales for both the first quarter this year and last year, except for comparable direct sales, as it felt that overall sales was a more meaningful metric during these periods.













GENESCO INC.



COVID-19 Related Items



Decrease (Increase) to Pretax Earnings



(in thousands)



(Unaudited)























Quarter 1 Quarter 1









May 1, 2021 May 2, 2020

















Goodwill impairment



$ - $ 79,259



Incremental retail store asset impairment(1)

- 2,734



Trademark impairment(1)



- 5,260



Release of Togast earnout(1)



- (441)



Excess inventory(2)



- 1,808



Non-productive compensation(3) and (4)

717 3,245



UK property tax relief(3)



(4,675) (1,555)



Other governmental relief (3) and (5)

(3,224) -



Rent abatements and temporary rent concessions(3) and (6) (6,148) -



Incremental bad debt reserve(3)



- 2,422



Other(3)



- (198)

















Total COVID-19 Related Items



$ (13,330) $ 92,534

















(1)Included in asset impairments and other, net on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.





(2)Included in cost of sales on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.





(3)Included in selling and administrative expenses on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.





(4)Certain compensation paid to furloughed workers and commission based associates, net of the CARES Act, and UK and Canadian government relief.



(5) Includes UK and ROI Relief Grants.











(6)Estimated impact of abatements as well as temporary rent savings agreements that are being recognized when executed.















Schedule B

Genesco Inc. Adjustments to Reported Earnings (Loss) from Continuing Operations Three Months Ended May 1, 2021, May 2, 2020 and May 4, 2019



























The Company believes that disclosure of earnings (loss) and earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations and operating income (loss) adjusted for the items not reflected in the previously announced expectations will be meaningful to investors, especially in light of the impact of such items on the results.





































































May 1, 2021

May 2, 2020

May 4, 2019







Net of Per Share



Net of Per Share



Net of Per Share

In Thousands (except per share amounts)

Pretax Tax Amounts

Pretax Tax Amounts

Pretax Tax Amounts

Earnings (loss) from continuing operations, as reported



$ 8,894 $0.60



$ (134,624) ($9.54)



$ 6,470 $0.36





























Asset impairments and other adjustments:

























Retail store asset impairment charges

$ 414 326 0.02

$ 3,042 2,228 0.16

$ 307 212 0.01

Fees related to shareholder activist

2,256 1,600 0.11

- - 0.00

- - 0.00

Expenses related to new HQ building

597 424 0.03

- - 0.00

- - 0.00

Trademark impairment

- - 0.00

5,260 5,153 0.36

- - 0.00

Goodwill impairment

- - 0.00

79,259 79,259 5.62

- - 0.00

Release Togast earnout

- - 0.00

(441) (323) (0.02)

- - 0.00

Change in vacation policy

- - 0.00

(616) (451) (0.03)

- - 0.00

Gain on lease termination

- - 0.00

- - 0.00

(1,000) (689) (0.04)

Gain on Hurricane Maria

- - 0.00

- - 0.00

(38) (26) 0.00

Total asset impairments and other adjustments

$ 3,267 2,350 0.16

$ 86,504 85,866 6.09

$ (731) (503) (0.03)





























Income tax expense adjustments:

























Other tax items



400 0.03



(2,690) (0.20)



(58) 0.00

Total income tax expense adjustments



400 0.03



(2,690) (0.20)



(58) 0.00





























Adjusted earnings (loss) from continuing operations(1)and(2)

$ 11,644 $0.79



$ (51,448) ($3.65)



$ 5,909 $0.33

























































(1)The adjusted tax rate for the first quarter of Fiscal 2022, 2021 and 2020 is 35.7%, 26.8% and 31.3%, respectively.





























(2)EPS reflects 14.7 million, 14.1 million and 17.9 million share count for the first quarter of Fiscal 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively, which includes common stock equivalents in the first quarter of Fiscal 2022 and Fiscal 2020 and excludes common stock equivalents in the first quarter of Fiscal 2021 due to the loss from continuing operations.



Schedule B

Genesco Inc. Adjustments to Reported Operating Income (Loss) and Selling and Administrative Expenses Three Months Ended May 1, 2021, May 2, 2020 and May 4, 2019













May 1, 2021



Operating Asset Impair Adj Operating In Thousands

Income (Loss) & Other Adj Income (Loss) Journeys Group

$ 33,124 $ - $ 33,124 Schuh Group

(3,847) - (3,847) Johnston & Murphy Group

(3,180) - (3,180) Licensed Brands

2,561 - 2,561 Corporate and Other

(13,131) 3,267 (9,864) Total Operating Income

$ 15,527 $ 3,267 $ 18,794 % of sales

2.9%

3.5%













May 2, 2020



Operating Asset Impair Adj Operating In Thousands

Income (Loss) & Other Adj Income (Loss) Journeys Group

$ (37,083) $ (263) $ (37,346) Schuh Group

(15,086) - (15,086) Johnston & Murphy Group

(9,584) (96) (9,680) Licensed Brands

(2,501) (39) (2,540) Goodwill Impairment

(79,259) 79,259 - Corporate and Other

(12,505) 7,643 (4,862) Total Operating Loss

$ (156,018) $ 86,504 $ (69,514) % of sales

-55.9%

-24.9%













May 4, 2019



Operating Asset Impair Adj Operating In Thousands

Income (Loss) & Other Adj Income (Loss) Journeys Group

$ 18,976 $ - $ 18,976 Schuh Group

(5,428) - (5,428) Johnston & Murphy Group

5,106 - 5,106 Licensed Brands

429 - 429 Corporate and Other

(9,999) (731) (10,730) Total Operating Income

$ 9,084 $ (731) $ 8,353 % of sales

1.8%

1.7%



















In Thousands

May 1, 2021 May 2, 2020 May 4, 2019 Selling and administrative expenses, as reported

$ 239,465 $ 189,042 $ 236,555









Expenses related to new HQ building

(597) - - Change in vacation policy

- 616 - Total adjustments

(597) 616 - Adjusted selling and administrative expenses

$ 238,868 $ 189,658 $ 236,555 % of sales

44.3% 67.9% 47.7%

SOURCE Genesco Inc.

Related Links

http://www.genesco.com


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MATTIO Communications

[email protected]

631.338.5343

About Kiva

Kiva was founded in 2010 with a clear mission - change how the world views and uses cannabis for the better. Frustrated by the inconsistent, low-quality edibles available at the time, a young couple began making chocolate bars out of their Bay Area home kitchen. Today, their award-winning chocolates, mints, and gummies are the most trusted, recommended, and sought after available. For this, Kiva has become the most recognized edible brand in cannabis with a loyal customer base throughout hundreds of dispensaries in CA, AZ, NV, MI, IL, OH and HI.

SOURCE High Life Farms
Study measured airborne particulates of simulated talking, sneezing and coughing in the common area of a hotel property. Tweet this

The model simulated airborne transmission inside a common area of a select-service hotel, conditioned by a traditional HVAC system, to see how far aerosols travel and how long they remain suspended in the air. Using computer models, the study measured airborne particulates of simulated talking, sneezing and coughing in a common area of a hotel property, such as the dining area, and the HVAC system's filtration efficiency to capture contaminants throughout the space.

The simulation observed the flow of large and small particles,1 taking into account factors such as the location of the HVAC supply and return air vents, air flow physics, and the social distancing of guests. In the model, some of the guests were wearing face coverings and some were not (i.e., to simulate eating in the dining area). The study specifically examined the impact of adding mobile air purifiers to help pull contaminated air away from guests.

Key Study Findings: Air Flow and Impact of Air Purifiers

In the study, 97% of small particles were captured by air purifiers, which made a significant impact on the improvement of air quality.

Talking created smaller and fewer droplets than a sneeze; yet, when the droplet attaches itself to a particle as an aerosol, dissemination continued as long as a person talked and traveled approximately 60 feet in the simulation due to HVAC air flow.

The closer a source of contaminants is to the air purifier, the higher the purifier's effectiveness; mobile HEPA air purifiers captured particles as small as 0.3 microns (and smaller).

Key Study Findings: Effective Placement of Air Purifiers

Return air vents are often at the edges of a space and, as a result, can allow aerosols and other particles to travel farther. Typically, HVAC systems in hotels and other commercial buildings are not placed to control contaminants; they are designed for comfort and energy efficiency by controlling temperature and humidity.

Mobile HEPA air purifiers placed in strategic locations in a hotel lobby can be effective in managing the spread of contaminants, large and small.

Air purifiers that are less obstructed and set at tabletop level were more effective.

"People are paying attention to indoor air quality, especially as they return to public places, and they want to know that their favorite destinations are taking precautions," said Manish Sharma, vice president, chief technology and chief product officer for Honeywell Building Technologies. "While this computer simulation looked at how hotels can improve the air quality in places where people congregate  like lobbies or dining areas  the learnings can be applied to other environments like schools, dorms and office conference rooms. Modeling suggests that placing portable air purifiers in the exact places that people are can effectively and quickly filter the air in a space before particles and aerosols disseminate. This study also demonstrates that improving air quality doesn't have to be costly or complicated -- a good filtration technology and intentional placement of it can help remove contaminants from traveling through the air."

Background on Air Purifiers

Standalone, mobile HEPA air purifiers are known to capture particles as small as 0.3 microns and can help reduce the spread of pathogens, viruses and contaminated air.2 NASA research suggests portable air purifiers can be effective at removing submicron and nonparticulate size matter as well.3 Air purifiers work by pulling stale air into the unit where a carbon filter captures larger particles, VOCs and odors. The air then passes through the HEPA filter, made of tightly woven glass or synthetic fibers to capture smaller particles including smoke, dust, pollen, mold spores, viruses and bacteria. Honeywell HEPA air purifiers offer building owners a cost-effective, plug-and-play solution that does not require infrastructural changes.

Honeywell's Healthy Buildings solutions are part of a comprehensive effort to innovate solutions that help critical sectors of the global economy recover, like hospitality, without the need to replace existing infrastructure. Honeywell's Healthy Buildings solutions provide a holistic view of a building's health based on key factors such as indoor air quality, occupant flow, PPE analytics, thermal screening, temperature monitoring, social distancing and sanitation efficacy.

About Honeywell Building Technologies

Honeywell Building Technologies (HBT) is transforming the way every building operates to help improve the quality of life. We are a leading building controls company with operations in more than 75 countries supported by a global channel partner network. Commercial building owners and operators use our hardware, software and analytics to help create safe, efficient and productive facilities. Our solutions and services are used in more than 10 million buildings worldwide.

Honeywell (www.honeywell.com) is a Fortune 100 technology company that delivers industry specific solutions that include aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings and industry; and performance materials globally. Our technologies help aircraft, buildings, manufacturing plants, supply chains, and workers become more connected to make our world smarter, safer, and more sustainable. For more news and information on Honeywell, please visit www.honeywell.com/newsroom.

1 Simulation particle size distribution studied small particles (10 microns or smaller), medium particles (10  100 microns) and large particles (100+ microns).

2 Based on 3rd party independent CADR testing for the smoke CADR value when operated at the highest level. Air circulation depends on many factors, such as room size and configuration. There is no guarantee that all of the air in a room will pass through the filter.

3 NASA, Submicron and Nanoparticulate Matter Removal by HEPA-Rated Media Filters and Packed Beds of Granular Materials, J.L. Perry, J.H. Agui, R. Vijayakumar, May 2016

Megan McGovern Meagan Meldrim Honeywell Finn Partners (404) 216-6186 (616) 970-2177 [email protected] [email protected]

SOURCE Honeywell

Related Links

http://buildingsolutions.honeywell.com


Pamela Wolf, J.D. senior employment legal analyst at Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S. , can speak more on this topic and discuss what government and corporate oversight exists to try to combat these troubling trends.

Please find more information below.

WHAT: In a global analysis of the number of deaths and health related issues associated with working long hours, WHO and ILO estimate that in 2016, 398,000 people died from stroke and 347,000 from heart disease as a result of having worked at least 55 hours a week. Between 2000 and 2016, the number of deaths from heart disease due to working long hours increased by 42 percent, and from stroke by 19 percent.

WHY: In the U.S., the Fair Labor Standards Act requires covered employers to pay overtime wages for non-exempt employees who work over 40 hours in a workweek; some states, notably California, have additional employee protections. But for the large numbers of employees who are exempt under federal or state law, and who are not covered by a union or employment contract that contains additional protections, their employers may require them to work any number of hours. Most private sector employers operate under employment-at-willwhere employers are able to fire workers for any reason or no reason at allincluding refusal to work mandated hours.

WHO: Pam Wolf, J.D., senior employment law analyst at Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S. is available to offer analysis on:

- State lawmakers enacting new restrictions on maximum work hours;

- Maximum work restrictions in new employment contracts;

- Factors that impact employers immediately, such as employee dissatisfaction, public relations implications, and unionization vulnerabilities;

- What we can expect to see from large companies in regard to this report, and more.

"I believe the WHO/ILO study is going to be eye-opening to many employers on the amount of hours their employees should be working and the dangerous tolls on any employee's health, safety, and productivity overall," says Pam Wolf, senior employment legal analyst at Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S. "This study points out many things that employers should keep in mind when considering reviewing and modifying current company policies, and may push regulators to reexamine federal and state labor legislation originally written decades ago when the workplace was very different."

Media Contact: For members of the press who wish to arrange an interview with Pam Wolf about the impact of long working hours or related topics, please contact us at [email protected].

About Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S.

Wolters Kluwer (WKL) is a global leader in professional information, software solutions, and services for the healthcare; tax and accounting; governance, risk and compliance; and legal and regulatory sectors. We help our customers make critical decisions every day by providing expert solutions that combine deep domain knowledge with technology and services.

Wolters Kluwer reported 2020 annual revenues of 4.6 billion. The group serves customers in over 180 countries, maintains operations in over 40 countries, and employs approximately 19,200 people worldwide. The company is headquartered in Alphen aan den Rijn, the Netherlands.

Wolters Kluwer shares are listed on Euronext Amsterdam (WKL) and are included in the AEX and Euronext 100 indices. Wolters Kluwer has a sponsored Level 1 American Depositary Receipt (ADR) program. The ADRs are traded on the over-the-counter market in the U.S. (WTKWY).

For more information about Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S., visit www.WoltersKluwerLR.com, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

SOURCE Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S.

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Intelligent Innovations Group supporting $12.6 billion DIA SITE III IDIQ contract delivering IT services. Tweet this

"Modernizing IT enterprise systems for the government is a major priority right now and we are thrilled to continue actively supporting DIA in their endeavors to streamline their IT approach," said Demetrios Bursenos, Argus Managing Partner. "We are also eager to expand our services to the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency as an IT solutions provider supporting the critical missions and projects that impact our warfighters and our country."

"We are excited to work with Argus through this joint venture as Intelligent Innovations Group," says Aveshka President and CEO, Girish Jindia. "Together, our expertise and capability offerings are a force multiplier that effectively spans over the broad range of IT work DIA requires. We both have had successful track records leading IT engagements and serving DIA and various entities within the government sector."

As IIG, Argus and Aveshka have combined their core competencies all of which are sought under SITE III which includes but is not limited to: IT planning and project management, application development, cybersecurity, enterprise network defense, compliance, information assurance, enterprise computing, cloud computing and network services.

ABOUT ARGUS SECURE TECHNOLOGY LLC

Argus Secure Technology is an IT services provider specializing in Defensive Cyber Operations (DCO), Security Engineering and Information Assurance. Argus serves the Department of Defense (DoD), Intelligence Community (IC), Federal Government, and commercial clients employing proactive next generation (NextGen) cyber defense methodologies. Argus' innovative approach leverages threat intelligence driven operations, whereby incorporating Attack Sensing and Warning (AS&W) and Warning Intelligence (WI) throughout all aspects of the Protect, Detect, and Respond mission spaces. For more information, visit www.ArgusSecureTech.com.

ABOUT AVESHKA, INC.

Aveshka is a thought leader that integrates strategy, technology and innovation to deliver cutting edge, breakthrough solutions that strengthen the nation against security threats. Aveshka accelerates the advantage for its customers' missions, rendering them protected today and prepared for a safer and smarter tomorrow. For more information, visit www.aveshka.com.

SOURCE Aveshka, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.aveshka.com


BOSTON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- For the fifth year in a row, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts has been named the top health plan in Massachusetts for member satisfaction by J.D. Power, a global expert in customer insights. Blue Cross is the only plan in Massachusetts to be ranked No. 1 by J.D. Power for five consecutive years.

"Our dedicated associates bring a spirit of empathy and dedication to our members every day, and that has been more true than ever amid the COVID-19 pandemic," said Blue Cross President and CEO Andrew Dreyfus. "We are grateful for this extraordinary recognition, which marks five years of exceptional customer satisfaction."

The J.D. Power 2021 U.S. Commercial Member Health Plan StudySM measures member satisfaction in 22 regions throughout the United States. Blue Cross earned the highest score in coverage and benefits, cost, information and communication, customer service and billing and payment in the Massachusetts region.

The J.D. Power results for the region are based on responses from 997 commercial health plan members from five health plans across Massachusetts. The survey was fielded in January-March 2021.

About Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (http://www.bluecrossma.org) is a community-focused, tax-paying, not-for-profit health plan headquartered in Boston. We are committed to the relentless pursuit of quality, affordable and equitable health care with an unparalleled consumer experience. Consistent with our promise to always put our members first, we are rated among the nation's best health plans for member satisfaction and quality. Connect with us on Facebook , Twitter , YouTube , and LinkedIn .

About J.D. Power

J.D. Power is a global leader in consumer insights, advisory services and data and analytics. A pioneer in the use of big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithmic modeling capabilities to understand consumer behavior, J.D. Power has been delivering incisive industry intelligence on customer interactions with brands and products for more than 50 years. The world's leading businesses across major industries rely on J.D. Power to guide their customer-facing strategies.

J.D. Power is headquartered in Troy, Mich., and has offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more about the company's business offerings, visit JDPower.com/business. The J.D. Power auto shopping tool can be found at JDPower.com.

SOURCE Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts

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MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Kodiak Robotics, Inc. , a leading self-driving trucking company, and SK Inc. , a holding company of SK Group , South Korea's third-largest conglomerate with more than 120 operating companies, today announced a partnership to bring the Kodiak Driver, the company's self-driving technology, to the Asia-Pacific (APAC) markets. As part of the relationship, SK will work with Kodiak to seek new business opportunities that utilize Kodiak's self-driving technology. In addition, the companies will work together to provide fleet management services for customers in Asia.

SK's network of companies has deep roots in numerous industries critical to the future of logistics, from trucking telematics to shipping to semiconductors.

Kodiak will look to leverage SK's products, components and technology for its autonomous system, including artificial intelligence microprocessors and advanced emergency braking systems.

"Our partnership with Kodiak will help accelerate the commercialization of self-driving trucks in Asia," said Jungho Shin, executive vice president of SK Inc. "Kodiak's industry-leading technology and SK's unrivaled reach in Korea and across Asia make this a natural partnership. We look forward to working with Kodiak to make autonomous trucking a reality around the globe."

The partnership marks a significant milestone for the company as it works towards international expansion. Asia represents a $1.5 trillion freight market, making this a key opportunity for Kodiak's international operations.

"SK has an impressive list of companies that enables and fastracks our Asian expansion," said Don Burnette, Kodiak's Co-founder & CEO. "Our technology paired with SK's deep relationships with Asia's leading logistics and technology partners offers Kodiak a unique opportunity to expand our global footprint and commercialize the Kodiak Driver across the Asia-Pacific region."

Kodiak is headquartered in Mountain View, California, with a testing and operations hub located in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. In just three years, Kodiak is already earning revenue while it validates its system by hauling daily customer freight between Dallas, Texas, and Houston, Texas. The company aims to build the world's most efficient, reliable and respected end-to-end delivery solution. This partnership with SK Inc. comes on the heels of an announcement with the U.S. Air Force for a contract to bring autonomous transportation to the U.S. Department of Defense's Dover Air Force base in Delaware.

About Kodiak Robotics, Inc.

Kodiak Robotics, Inc. was founded in 2018 to develop autonomous technology that carries freight forwardso people, partners, and the planet thrive. Kodiak is building and operating self-driving trucks designed to operate on highway routes, making the freight industry safer and more efficient. Kodiak has developed the industry's most advanced technology stack purpose-built specifically for long-haul trucks. Kodiak delivers freight daily for its customers between Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston, operating autonomously on the highway portion of the route. In January 2021, Kodiak became the first company in the autonomous trucking industry to announce disengage-free customer deliveries, and released footage of over 1000 miles of disengage-free driving. Learn more about Kodiak on the web at kodiak.ai , and on Medium , LinkedIn and Twitter . You can find the company press kit HERE .

About SK Inc.:

Based in Seoul, South Korea, SK Inc. enhances its portfolio values by developing long-term strategies with globally competitive affiliates in energy and chemicals, ICT, semiconductor and materials, logistics and services, and bio and pharmaceuticals. As an investment-oriented holding company of SK Group, the company is focused on maximizing corporate value and building the foundation for sustainable growth by identifying and nurturing promising new businesses. For more information on SK Inc., please visit http://www.sk-inc.com/en/

SOURCE Kodiak Robotics

Related Links

https://kodiak.ai/


JERSEY CITY, N.J., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- BlockFi, a financial services company dedicated to building a bridge between cryptocurrencies and traditional financial and wealth management products, today announced that Laura Cooper has joined the company as Chief People Officer. Ms. Cooper will oversee all aspects of BlockFi's dynamic global human resources function to accelerate the growth of the business in a thriving high-performance culture.

Ms. Cooper brings more than 20 years of global HR mastery to BlockFi. She has tremendous expertise in leading worldwide organizations with rigorous discipline as well as agile dynamic venture capital-backed tech startups. Previously, she served as Chief People Officer at OwnBackup and prior to that was the SVP of People for the leading marketing retail company, Bluecore.

As a global people leader, Ms. Cooper is laser-focused on developing and executing ambitious visions for People organizations in rapidly scaling tech companies. Her strengths lie in building strategies as well as executing multi-disciplined initiatives in extremely time-sensitive environments. She is committed to ensuring a symbiotic balance between the successful achievement of organizational goals with a high-performance employee-focused culture. Alignment with this ethos requires a comprehensive approach to impactful engagement, recruiting, workforce planning, business performance, advanced leadership acumen, and destination workplace branding.

"We're thrilled to have Laura join BlockFi during a momentous period in which we continue to grow rapidly and seek out the best talent to help meet our clients' financial needs. She is the right leader to help us continue to build an engaged, inclusive, and high-performing culture," said Flori Marquez, Co-Founder and Senior Vice President for Operations at BlockFi. "I'm confident in Laura's ability to develop, implement, and align global HR programs while also serving as a strategic partner of the senior management team. Laura is a data-focused strategist, team builder, and culture creator who will work to implement BlockFi's values and continue to maximize each employee's potential."

"I'm delighted to be joining BlockFi at a time when culture, talent, and high performance are top priorities for the organization," said Ms. Cooper. "The highly engaged global culture at BlockFi is very unique, and I look forward to helping them take these strengths to new levels of performance and success."

Ms. Cooper is based in the Northeast and holds a B.S. in Philosophy with a focus on Ancient Value Theory and Creative Writing from the State University of New York. She also received her JD from Pace University School of Law and is a licensed attorney.

Media Contact for BlockFi:

Ryan Dicovitsky/Ellie Johnson

Dukas Linden Public Relations

[email protected]

About BlockFi

BlockFi is a new breed of financial services company. Founded in 2017 by Zac Prince and Flori Marquez, BlockFi is building a bridge between cryptocurrencies and traditional financial and wealth management products to advance the overall digital asset ecosystem for individual and institutional investors. BlockFi's platform manages more than $15 billion in assets and has generated over $200 million in interest for clients. The company, headquartered in New Jersey with offices around the globe, continues to expand its presence in the United States and internationally.

Nothing contained in this announcement should be construed as a solicitation of an offer to buy or offer, or recommendation, to acquire or dispose of any security, commodity, investment or to engage in any other transaction. The information provided in this announcement is not intended for distribution to, or use by, any person or entity in any jurisdiction or country where such distribution or use would be contrary to law or regulation. This announcement is not directed to any person in any jurisdiction where the publication or availability of the announcement is prohibited, by reason of that person's nationality, residence or otherwise.

Neither BlockFi nor any of its affiliates or representatives provide legal, tax or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions.

Digital currency is not legal tender, is not backed by the government, and crypto interest accounts are not subject to FDIC or SIPC protections. Learn more at BlockFi.com.

BlockFi Lending LLC NMLS ID#1737520 | BlockFi Trading LLC NMLS ID#1873137

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SOURCE BlockFi

Related Links

https://blockfi.com/


VANCOUVER, BC, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Lithium South Development Corporation (the "Company") (TSX-V: LIS) (OTCQB: LISMF) (Frankfurt OGPQ) is pleased to announce the appointment of Marcela Casini as Senior Consulting Geologist, and Qualified Person. Ms. Casini has a distinguished career in the lithium exploration and development industry in Argentina.

Upon graduating from Cordoba University in Argentina, she worked for Rio Tino as a field geologist exploring salars in the Puna region of Northwest Argentina. From 2009 to present Ms. Casini has worked for the Cauchari Olaroz lithium brine project, a joint venture with Lithium Americas Corp. and Ganfeng Lithium Co, where she is responsible for the well field of a projected 40,000 tonne per year lithium operation. In addition to that, since 2016 she has consulted to PepinNini Minerals regarding the exploration and development of lithium resources at the Rincon and Pular salars.

Adrian F.C. Hobkirk, CEO and President of Lithium South, said: "We are very fortunate to have Ms. Casini assist and guide us in the further development of the HMN Lithium Project, including the potential expansion of the current resource. Over the past five years, she has been acting as an independent consultant for several companies, advising for new exploration targets and helping them to estimate the Lithium potential and resource /reserve estimation in salt lakes and surrounding areas. We look forward to her future contributions and the start of our drill program."

About Lithium South

Lithium South is focused on developing the Hombre Muerto North Lithium Project (HMN Li Project), located on the Hombre Muerto Salar, a major lithium-producing salar in Argentina. The property is adjacent to land under development by the Korean multinational corporation POSCO, which acquired the ground from Galaxy Resources Ltd. for US $280 million. The Company completed a Preliminary Economic Assessment of the HMN Li Project in 2019, utilizing conventional evaporation extraction. The Company is focused on evaluating alternative extraction methods for the HMN Li Project and plans to become a leader in the application of Direct Lithium Extraction technology at the project level.

The technical and scientific information contained in this news release was reviewed by Mr. William Feyerabend, a Consulting Geologist and Qualified Person under NI 43-101. Mr. Feyerabend participated in the production of this news release.

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. The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed the content of this news release and therefore does not accept responsibility or liability for the adequacy or accuracy of the contents of this news release.

This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the United States Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Except for statements of historical fact relating to the Company, certain information contained herein constitutes forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based upon opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward- looking statements. There can be no guarantee that the transaction being contemplated, the sale of the HMN Lithium Project, will complete as announced or at all. We seek safe harbor.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

Adrian F. C. Hobkirk

President and Chief Executive Officer

Investors / Shareholders call 855-415-8100 / website: www.lithiumsouth.com

SOURCE Lithium South Development Corporation
NEW ORLEANS, May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Two former Louisiana agricultural workers suffering from Parkinson's disease have filed historic lawsuits against the manufacturers of the herbicide paraquat. The plaintiffs, including a former LSU AgCenter extension agent, worked in the state's ag industry, and were exposed to the toxic chemical for years.

In 2020, a peer-reviewed study by three LSU researchers found a clear correlation between Parkinson's disease and the use of paraquat in rural areas of Louisiana.

The lawsuits, filed May 25th by the New Orleans firms of Herman, Herman & Katz, LLC and the Sangisetty Law Firm and the Los Angeles firm of Arias, Sanguinetti, Wang, Torrijos, allege that Chevron USA, Inc. and Syngeta AG failed to warn of the risk of contracting Parkinson's disease from chronic, low-dose exposure to its herbicide. Punitive damages are also sought for alleged deceptive and unlawful marketing practices.

The Paraquat Link to Parkinson's

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder of the brain that primarily affects the body's motor system. There is currently no cure or treatment to stop or reverse its progression.

Paraquat was introduced into the U.S. in the 1960s and marketed as a safe and effective method of controlling vegetation. It has regained popularity as vegetation has become resistant to other herbicides.

Agricultural workers may be exposed by inhalation through the nose or mouth or absorption through the skin. It may take years for the effects of exposure to show up.



In 2019, legislation was proposed to ban paraquat in the U.S., but the bill died in Congress.

Will Nationwide Cases Be Consolidated?

The recently filed lawsuits may soon be consolidated as multidistrict litigation (MDL) with other paraquat cases nationwide. A judicial panel will meet in Washington May 27 to hear arguments about whether the cases should be transferred to a single judge for pre-trial proceedings.

Stephen J. Herman, co-lead counsel for the plaintiffs in the MDL following the BP Oil Spill, sees the consolidation of paraquat cases as a leveling tool for victims of the herbicide. "An MDL allows--indeed requires--the best lawyers from around the country to pool their knowledge, experience and financial resources, so that the farmer in Ruston can go toe-to-toe with a company like Chevron," Herman said. "With our track record in these cases and decades-long relationships with the nations' leading firms, Herman, Herman & Katz is uniquely positioned to fight for our ag workers."

For more information, attorney interviews contact:

Joseph E. "Jed" Cain

Herman, Herman & Katz, L.L.C.

504-581-4892 (telephone)

SOURCE Herman, Herman, Katz & Cotlar, L.L.P.
BEIJING, May 27 -- "We firmly oppose any country selling weapons to Taiwan or having military interactions in any form with Taiwan", said Senior Colonel Tan Kefei, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of National Defense, when responding to a journalist's question on the US plan of arms sale to Taiwan and the recent military actions of Taiwan air force at a regular press conference in Beijing on May 27.

It is reported that the Defense Security Cooperation Agency of the US Department of Defense plans to announce the sale of the M109A6 self-propelled howitzer and other offensive weapons to Taiwan. Meanwhile, Taiwan air force recently test-fired the AIM-120 medium-range air-to-air missile purchased from US in the airspace of southeast Taiwan.

As for the issue of arms sales to Taiwan, Tan stressed that the Taiwan question is China's internal affairs, and the US arms sales to Taiwan seriously violate the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques, sending wrong signals to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces.

China urges the US side to abide by the basic principle of non-interference in other countries' internal affairs, keep its solemn commitments to China on the Taiwan question, handle Taiwan-related issues carefully and properly, cease official exchanges and military contacts in any form with the island and stop arms sales to Taiwan, added Tan.

In addition, Tan sternly warned Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities that any attempt or act of borrowing the strength of foreign influence for separatist purpose is doomed to be futile and bound to fail.

In response to the actions of DPP authorities, such as its collusion with external forces, the betrayal of Chinese national interests and even the attempt to "seek independence by force", Tan pointed out that their actions will only lead Taiwan compatriots into the abyss of disaster. The Chinese military will take all necessary measures to resolutely thwart any separatist attempts for "Taiwan independence" and safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The encouraging geochemistry intersected provides new geological understanding to underpin future drilling programs and further discoveries.

The company has an extensive landholding within the Yalgoo greenstone belt of Western Australia.

s ( ) first drilling campaign at the Messenger Project in Western Australias Yalgoo region has delivered broad gold mineralisation.

A maiden reconnaissance drill campaign has encountered grades of up to 0.7 g/t gold within thicker zones of mineralisation of up to 17 metres.

The company is highly encouraged by the results that confirm the presence of gold within the target zones as well as an opportunity for further discoveries.

Tempest previously completed 2,100 metres of drilling at the Dally and Wally targets in which compelling geology was intersected.

Broad mineralisation

This has now been confirmed with gold assayed in many holes, adding to the endowment of the region.

Highlights include:

9 metres at 223ppb from 64 metres, including 2 metres at 502ppb (0.5 g/t);

11 metres at 163 ppb from 65 metres, including 1-metre at 712ppb (0.7 g/t); and

17 metres at 120 ppb from 99 metres, including 1-metre at 550ppb (0.5 g/t).

Although gold was discovered in this initial program, results indicate that the primary source of much of the mineralisation is yet to be revealed and may yield additional substantial results in the future.

The encouraging geochemistry provides new geological understanding to underpin future drilling programs and further discoveries.

Euro drilling

Tempest is preparing for drilling at the Euro Project which has substantial historic drilling, including 15 metres at 2.3 g/t from 20 metres.

Euro is southwest of Messenger and within 5 kilometres of the 1-million-ounce Rothsay Gold Mine.

The Messenger Project is part of the companys extensive landholding within the Yalgoo greenstone belt 450 kilometres north of Perth.

The project is 8 kilometres north of the prolific Golden Grove Copper/Zinc/Gold Mine and adjacent to the historic Messengers Patch.

It is a well-known historic mining area that had numerous high-grade mines (up to 10 ounces of gold per ton) and a state battery (government built gold processing facility) in the early 1900s.

The area is undergoing an explosion in activity including multiple high profile exploration successes which are all proximal to the exploration being conducted by Tempest in the Yalgoo region.

Next steps
GRAHAM, Texas, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Echo Production, Inc., an integrated energy company, announced the appointment of Matthew B. Myers to the Board of Directors. He will be a member of the Audit Committee and Chairman of the ESG Committee.

"Dr. Myers brings a wealth of knowledge capital to the company and provides heightened governance capability for its accelerated growth strategy called Horizon," said Anne Street, CEO and Co-Owner of Echo.

Matthew B. Myers, is the Dean and Tolleson Chair of Business Leadership at the Cox School of Business, Southern Methodist University. Dr. Myers is a globally recognized academician and has served as visiting faculty at ESSEC-Paris, the University of St. Andrews, and the Vienna University of Economics. Before coming to academia, he worked at both Merrill-Lynch and IBM-Argentina and has consulted with organizations in the engineering, global distribution, chemical, insurance, financial services, customer engagement, and pharmaceutical industries. He is a member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, and serves on the board of the Maguire Energy Institute, the Southwest Graduate School of Banking, the Mission Foods Texas-Mexico Center in the John G. Tower Center for Political Studies, Goodwill Industries-Dallas, the Baylor Health Foundation, and is an advisory council member for the George W. Bush Institute for Economic Growth. Dr. Myers served in the U.S. Army Airborne from 1979 to 1982, primarily with A Co. (Airborne) 3d BN 5t INF, 193d Infantry Brigade in Panama.

Going forward, companies in the energy sector must adapt to new paradigms, market challenges and regulatory imperatives. "As a valued member of the Board, Dr. Myers will lead Echo's ESG Committee, a member of the Audit Committee and a key resource for the company's M&A initiatives," said Tompie Hall, Chief Financial Officer.

Echo Production is a 70 year old independent oil & gas company based in Graham, Texas. The company's value chain includes both production and exploration The company's areas of operation includes North Texas and eastern Permian Basin regions. Recently, Echo launched a major ESG project called "CleanOnGreen" (CoG). CoG is a joint-venture between Echo Production and Pureline Treatment Systems. The JV objective is to clean oilfield produced water for non-edible agriculture crop production.

For more information please visit the company's website at www.echoproduction.com

SOURCE Echo Production

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CHICAGO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- International law firm McDermott Will & Emery added six partners to the Transactions Practice Group in cities across the United States: Brian Gordon in Atlanta, Marcus Helt in Dallas, Parker Lee in New York, Mal Serure in Los Angeles, David Solander in Washington, DC and David Wolff in Chicago. This added, diversified talent across the transactions arena will guide clientsincluding some of the most important businesses in worldin their critical investments throughout a volatile market to achieve the best possible outcomes.

"Providing top legal talent for corporate clients in an increasingly active, technical and regulated post-pandemic market is our number one priority," Harris Siskind, global head of the Firm's transactions practice, said. "With our continued growth across our transactions practice platform, we are able to deliver creative and efficient legal solutions that match the diverse needs of our clients."

"The transactions landscape has evolved greatly over the last year, and it's vital we continue to build out our Firm's in-demand transactions practice and bring on new teams to meet our clients' growing needs," added Michael Poulos, McDermott's Head of Strategy. "These hires underscore our commitment in key markets like Atlanta, where our office has already doubled in size since opening in March 2020, and similarly in Texas, where new energy and restructuring talent have accelerated projected growth over the last year."

McDermott Chairman Ira Coleman noted, "In the spirit of delivering ever-greater value to our clients, people and communities, we are thrilled to add these incredible deal lawyers to the McDermott family. Our industry-leading growth over the past three years is a testament to our indispensability to our clients, and it is supported by stellar partner talent acquisition."

The six new partners are:

Brian Gordon ( Atlanta ) represents VC-backed technology companies in acquisitions, financing transactions, negotiation of credit facilities, corporate governance, employment and equity compensation matters. On the private equity side, he represents funds in their acquisitions, roll-ups and sales of portfolio companies, with a subspecialty in restaurants and retail. Brian joins from DLA Piper.

represents VC-backed technology companies in acquisitions, financing transactions, negotiation of credit facilities, corporate governance, employment and equity compensation matters. On the private equity side, he represents funds in their acquisitions, roll-ups and sales of portfolio companies, with a subspecialty in restaurants and retail. Brian joins from DLA Piper. Marcus Helt ( Dallas ) focuses his practice on restructuring and insolvency matters, emphasizing bankruptcy, corporate restructuring, workouts, creditors' rights and commercial litigation. Marcus represents borrower clients, buyers and other interested parties in all industries, especially healthcare, retail, food and beverage, energy, manufacturing, distribution and franchise. Marcus joins from Foley & Lardner.

focuses his practice on restructuring and insolvency matters, emphasizing bankruptcy, corporate restructuring, workouts, creditors' rights and commercial litigation. Marcus represents borrower clients, buyers and other interested parties in all industries, especially healthcare, retail, food and beverage, energy, manufacturing, distribution and franchise. Marcus joins from Foley & Lardner. Parker Lee ( New York ) counsels some of the world's largest energy companies. He advises corporations and investors in evaluating and executing transactions and commercial contracts in the energy and infrastructure industries. He represents clients in various domestic and international oil & gas, power, water, petrochemical and infrastructure M&A, project development and joint venture transactions. Parker joins from Hunton Andrews Kurth .

counsels some of the world's largest energy companies. He advises corporations and investors in evaluating and executing transactions and commercial contracts in the energy and infrastructure industries. He represents clients in various domestic and international oil & gas, power, water, petrochemical and infrastructure M&A, project development and joint venture transactions. Parker joins from . Mal E. Serure ( Los Angeles ) is a commercial real estate lawyer with more than two decades of experience representing private equity funds, banks, real estate companies and real estate investment trusts in a wide range of transactions. He regularly advises lenders and borrowers in mortgage and mezzanine loan financing, and preferred equity transactions, as well as owners and investors in purchase and sale and joint venture transactions. Mal also advises clients on the purchase, workout and restructuring of troubled loans, including negotiations with co-lenders, participants, servicers and special servicers. Mal joins from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner .

is a commercial real estate lawyer with more than two decades of experience representing private equity funds, banks, real estate companies and real estate investment trusts in a wide range of transactions. He regularly advises lenders and borrowers in mortgage and mezzanine loan financing, and preferred equity transactions, as well as owners and investors in purchase and sale and joint venture transactions. Mal also advises clients on the purchase, workout and restructuring of troubled loans, including negotiations with co-lenders, participants, servicers and special servicers. Mal joins from . David Solander ( Washington, DC ) works with financial services firms on the many regulatory and compliance issues related to the asset management industry. In addition to traditional financial institutionsincluding managers to hedge funds, PE, real estate, VC and other private fund clientsDavid advises companies utilizing blockchain technology on regulatory matters and fund formation related to trading and investing in cryptocurrency and digital assets. David joins from Goodwin Procter .

works with financial services firms on the many regulatory and compliance issues related to the asset management industry. In addition to traditional financial institutionsincluding managers to hedge funds, PE, real estate, VC and other private fund clientsDavid advises companies utilizing blockchain technology on regulatory matters and fund formation related to trading and investing in cryptocurrency and digital assets. David joins from . David Wolff ( Chicago ) is a leading real estate transactions lawyer dedicated to closing high-impact deals for numerous private equity sponsors, real estate investment trusts, developers, capital providers and other institutional and non-institutional investors in commercial real estate transactions and related joint venture and finance transactions. David will lead the Firm's Chicago real estate practice. David joins from Kirkland & Ellis.

These partners join on the heels of steady, strong growth as McDermott jumped from #30 in 2019 to #24 in 2020 on The American Lawyer's Am Law100 ranking.

Prior to this group joining, McDermott added several partners to the Firm's Transactions Practice Group, including Houston-based Jack Langlois and Jibin Luke, a well-known duo in the Texas energy and legal circles. Anne Cox-Johnson also joined in Atlanta.

About McDermott

McDermott Will & Emery partners with leaders around the world to fuel missions, knock down barriers and shape markets. Our team works seamlessly across practices and industries to deliver highly effectiveand often unexpectedsolutions that propel success. More than 1,200 lawyers strong, we bring our personal passion and legal prowess to bear in every matter for our clients and the people they serve.

SOURCE McDermott Will & Emery

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Narrative delivers access to 10 trillion data points; on-track to provide an additional 10 Trillion data points in 2021 Tweet this

"Since launching Narrative in 2016, our mission has been to help data scientists and businesses tap into a wealth of data - either for data acquisition or to offer a place where they can monetize their data," said Nick Jordan, founder and CEO of Narrative. "The demand for quality data continues to grow significantly every day, and we are constantly adding new datasets to the platform. Addressing this demand with a direct platform for transparent data exchange has been our goal since our establishment."

Narrative's Data Streaming Platform allows those looking to acquire data to discover new data sources, merge datasets, contract, price, pay for and fulfill data transactions with complete control and transparency. With Narrative's platform, data users can source, evaluate, buy, process, and activate new datasets in a matter of hours, eliminating opaque data broker deals while saving money and reducing risk in the exchange of data.

Data originators and those looking to monetize data use Narrative's Data Streaming Platform to unlock the value of their information, setting up and scaling viable data businesses to generate a steady stream of revenue and better control one of their most strategic assets.

To learn more about Narrative, its solutions, and the broad range of datasets available on the platform, please visit: https://www.narrative.io/

About Narrative

Narrative is the Data Streaming Platform that makes it easy to buy, sell, and win. Narrative simplifies the buying and selling of information by eliminating the inefficiencies in data transactions that hold businesses back from maximizing the success of their most important data-driven initiatives. Innovative brands and direct-to-consumer companies leverage Narrative's technology to fuel powerful data strategies, build data monetization businesses, power growth marketing, and inform product development. Founded in 2016, Narrative is a private company headquartered in New York City.

SOURCE Narrative I/O, Inc.

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https://narrative.io


NMG is participating in the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index (CEI) for the first time this year. Tweet this

Throughout June, NMG and its two iconic luxury brands  Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus  are coordinating several initiatives and moments to celebrate the community:

Enhancing Corporate Policies and Benefits to be More Inclusive and Equitable

NMG is participating in the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index (CEI) for the first time this year. CEI is the national benchmarking tool on corporate policies, practices, and benefits pertinent to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer employees. Completing the CEI highlighted several areas where NMG could take action to improve; as a result, NMG has:

Updated the Code of Ethics non-discrimination policy to include protections for " gender identity and expression. "

non-discrimination policy to include protections for " " Ensured equivalency in medical and soft benefits for same- and different-sex spouses and domestic partners , like health, dental, and vision insurance and dependent coverage (available to domestic partners beginning August 1, 2021 ) and relocation/travel assistance, FMLA-like benefits, and employee discounts (available later this year).

, like health, dental, and vision insurance and dependent coverage (available to domestic partners beginning ) and relocation/travel assistance, FMLA-like benefits, and employee discounts (available later this year). Included an insurance plan that explicitly affirms equal health coverage for transgender individuals without caps or exclusions for medically necessary care, including transition-related treatment such as genital surgeries, hormone therapy, and mental health counseling.

without caps or exclusions for medically necessary care, including transition-related treatment such as genital surgeries, hormone therapy, and mental health counseling. A dopted gender transition guidelines with supportive restrooms, dress code, and documentation guidance for the workplace.

with supportive restrooms, dress code, and documentation guidance for the workplace. Created additional associate trainings featuring courses that help increase understanding of sexual orientation and gender identity in the workplace and provide access to resources like NMG's new gender transition guidelines.

Partnered with Reaching Out MBA to strengthen NMG's LGBTQ employee recruitment efforts, particularly for the Executive Development Program.

Celebrating in our Stores with More Colors, More PRIDE

Most of Neiman Marcus stores and both Bergdorf Goodman stores will display PRIDE support windows, in-store visuals, and curated product displays.

NMG is fundraising for the Human Rights Campaign through point-of-sale donations and the sale of 1,000 limited-edition "More Colors, More Pride" lapel pins ($15) online and in 10 select Neiman Marcus stores (NorthPark, Houston, Atlanta, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Michigan Avenue, Short Hills, Paramus, Coral Gables, and San Diego), while supplies last. Neiman chose the More Color, More Pride flag for their pin design because the brown and black colors highlight the importance of including intersectional identities, including LGBTQ people of color, as NMG continues its work to build a culture where everyone belongs.

Donations are being made to Human Rights Campaign (HRC)  supporting equal rights, The Trevor Project  working to prevent suicide among LGBTQ teenagers, and True Colors United  supporting LGBTQ Homeless youth.

Leading with Love for All

As NMG's first LGBTQ CEO and one of the few openly out CEOs, van Raemdonck is welcoming opportunities to speak about his journey to unlocking his full and authentic self as an LGBTQ leader.

On Wednesday, June 9 at 3 p.m. CT / 4 p.m. ET, the company hosts a virtual event with CEO Geoffroy van Raemdonck and Andrew Gelwicks, author of "The Queer Advantage," to discuss their journeys to becoming their full and authentic selves, the importance of intersectionality within the LGBTQ community, and how to become an ally with the LGBTQ community. Geoffroy is also participating in a virtual event with the Retail Leaders Industry Association (RILA) and their president Brian Dodge in late June. They will discuss what it means to be an LGBTQ leader and advocate today.

"As a company, we're dedicated to leading with love and fostering a community of Belonging for all," said Geoffroy van Raemdonck, Chief Executive Officer, Neiman Marcus Group. "I'm so proud of the impactful work NMG has done to lead with love and to nurture our Belonging culture so that we have a work environment that continues to lead in diversity, equity, and inclusion."

"NMG is a place where everyone belongs, where diversity of thought is valued, and where showing up as your full and authentic self is expected," said Eric Severson, Chief People & Belonging Officer, Neiman Marcus Group. "As we progress on our Belonging journey, our people and their voices exemplify the diversity, talent, and collective commitment to bright futures for all that makes our company so rich."

To read more about NMG's ESG and philanthropy work, visit The Heart of Neiman Marcus.

About The Neiman Marcus Group, LLC

The Neiman Marcus Group, LLC (NMG) is a luxury, multi-branded, omnichannel fashion retailer conducting integrated store and online operations under the Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus Last Call, and Horchow brand names. For more information, visit http://www.neimanmarcusgroup.com.

SOURCE Neiman Marcus Group

Related Links

https://www.neimanmarcusgroup.com


WASHINGTON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly 45,000 current and former National Guard officers are applauding a bipartisan House bill that would provide medical coverage to the nation's citizen-soldiers and airmen.

Introduced this week by Rep. Andy Kim, D-N.J., and Rep. Trent Kelly, R-Miss., the Healthcare for Our Troops Act (H.R. 3512), would offer no-fee coverage through TRICARE, the military's health insurance program, to every Guardsman and Reservist.

The legislation is co-sponsored by Rep. Scott DesJarlais, R-Tenn., Rep. Steven Palazzo, R-Miss., Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Ohio, Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., and Rep. Marc Veasey, D-Texas. Palazzo and Ryan are co-chairs of the House National Guard and Reserve Caucus.

"You would think members of the force America counts on to be always ready, always there would all have health insurance, but that's just not the case," said retired Brig. Gen. J. Roy Robinson, the president of the National Guard Association of the United States.

"In fact, we've had to send National Guard soldiers and airmen to the front lines of the worst public health crisis in a century without medical coverage," he said. "We also did it during recent civil disturbances and we've done it when responding to hurricanes and wildfires. This legislation would ensure that never happens again. We applaud it."

Current law provides coverage to part-time Guardsmen only when they are federally mobilized for more than 30 days. Most domestic missions are of shorter duration. Many are conducted under state active duty, which provides no health care under any circumstance.

In addition, Guardsmen must also be medically ready to respond with little to no notice. This can be challenging for the nearly one in five who have no private coverage and lack access to routine, preventive health care, Robinson said.

H.R. 3512 would enroll Guardsmen and Reservists into TRICARE Reserve Select at no cost.

TRS is currently a partially subsidized program for drilling Guardsmen and Reservists. They cover a monthly premium and co-pays for services. The legislation would eliminate all of those costs for participants.

That would provide Guardsmen and Reservist medical coverage on par with their active-component counterparts, Robinson said.

"We would never debate the need to provide medical coverage for active-component troops," he said. "We need to view Guard soldiers and airmen in the same light.

"This legislation would also provide the Guard with a game-changing recruiting and retention tool, which would go a long way toward paying for the coverage," he added. "And it will make our soldiers and airmen more attractive in the civilian job market. It's the right thing to do for the Guard and the nation."

No-fee or zero-cost TRICARE is a top NGAUS legislative objective for the formulation of the defense legislation for fiscal 2022.

It is also a legislative priority for Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson, the chief of the National Guard Bureau. He recently told Congress that it is "one of my most pressing concerns."

About NGAUS: The association includes nearly 45,000 current or former Guard officers. It was created in 1878 to provide unified National Guard representation in Washington. In their first productive meeting after Reconstruction, militia officers from the North and South formed the association with the goal of obtaining better equipment and training by educating Congress on Guard requirements. Today, 143 years later, NGAUS has the same mission.

SOURCE National Guard Association of the U.S.

Related Links

www.ngaus.org


BERLIN and SAN FRANCISCO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Octily, the dedicated creative studio for Cornerstone OnDemand & Saba Cloud, announced its 50th customer and 200th unique project completed at one of the UK's most esteemed multinational insurance companies. It joins other global brands, including Bosch, Deutsche Post DHL, Electrolux, and Xella, who trust Octily to customize the look & feel, add new functionality, and personalize the talent and learning experience of their 3+ million users.

"Sometimes, our clients have requirements which go beyond the standard of our solution. In those cases, Octily helps us to make the impossible possible," said Thorsten Rusch, Senior Manager Solution Consulting DACH, Nordics & Eastern Europe at Cornerstone OnDemand.

Octily Helps British Multinational to Customize Cornerstone

A British multinational company wanted to "Do More" with Cornerstone. The Digital HR team was excited about Cornerstone's new AI-based "Learner Home" that recommends learning content for each individual employee, but had some unique requirements regarding user experience, ease of navigation, and integration of existing content.

The organization needed to have a bespoke version of the holistic foundation Cornerstone offers out-of-the-box. They wanted their learning experience platform to match the organization's in-house design, being a friendly 'home base' for their employees and encouraging employee interaction.

Octily reviewed the organization's brand guidelines and existing website to determine how to merge the functionality of Cornerstone with the organization's corporate identity. Now, their cloud-based HR platform looks familiar, integrates existing SharePoint content, works better and faster, and is easily administered in-house by the Digital HR team. The native functionality within Cornerstone is untouched, but on the surface, the new entry point for learners looks completely different.

The Digital HR team shared their impressions with Robert Bucher, CEO and "Cheerleader of the team" at Octily. "Our 50th client told me they are delighted with the work of the Octily team and their tailor-made version of Cornerstone. It has made all the difference in the satisfaction of both employees and managers. Working with Octily also took the pressure off their Digital HR team during a very tight go-live schedule," Rob said. "Overall, they are now very happy their work with Cornerstone not only includes the many default configuration options, but also the chance for an own creative, easy and fun twist. The team plans to work with Octily again on future Cornerstone projects," Rob concluded.

Andrew Howes, UK Financial Services Account Manager at Cornerstone said, "After seeing examples of Octily's work, we recommended them to a large UK Financial Services client who needed to quickly develop a consumer grade Employee Experience through a set of focused academies in a very short time frame. The brief was to enable employees to easily get easy access to the right content for their roles and to engage them with further development. Octily accepted the challenge and helped our client to achieve a massively successful launch with significant increases in learner engagement in incredibly short timescales. The ability to give great advice and deliver beyond expectation within time and budget made the project a success at every level."



Octily at Deutsche Post DHL

Cornerstone's global customer, Deutsche Post DHL Group, has worked with Octily on several projects since 2017. "Our initial rollout of Cornerstone OnDemand wasn't optimal as users quickly lost interest in the unfamiliar look and navigation," said Meredith Taghi, responsible for Group Learning, Talent & HR Platform Management at DPDHL. "Working with Octily, we transformed the pages from Cornerstone into our very distinct DPDHL-brand look & feel. We were also able to tweak the navigation and functionality, adding our personality and flow to the platform. The result has been a vast difference in employee acceptance while working with Cornerstone."

Octily at Electrolux

Electrolux's goal was to create a "Custom, Electrolux-brand version of Cornerstone that provides an exceptional experience to the worldwide team, one that incorporates the familiar look & feel and provides a user interface that is inviting, easy-to-use, and fun," according to Christian Bengtsson-Rossby, Director of Digital HR at Electrolux. Working with Octily, Electrolux achieved this goal. "When we need a proven specialist in Cornerstone, we turn to the experts at Octily. They are on the leading edge of Cornerstone development and leverage a unique expertise in their work. Their proven skills are unlike any others we have found. With Octily, we have a trusted partner on our side who understands our needs, responds to our tight schedules, and cheerfully adapts to our ever-changing requirements. We look forward to continuing our work with the Octily team," Christian concluded. Download Electrolux case study: http://octi.ly/electrolux

About Cornerstone

Cornerstone is a premier people development company. Cornerstone believes people can achieve anything when they have the right development and growth opportunities. Cornerstone offers organizations the technology, content, expertise and specialized focus to help them realize the potential of their people. Featuring comprehensive recruiting, personalized learning, modern training content, development-driven performance management and holistic employee data management and insights, Cornerstone's people development solutions are used by more than 6,000 customers of all sizes, spanning more than 75 million users across over 180 countries and nearly 50 languages. Learn more at https://www.cornerstoneondemand.com

About Octily

Octily is the dedicated creative studio with 100% focus on customization and personalization of Cornerstone OnDemand & Saba Cloud. As a long-term Certified Cornerstone OnDemand Partner, Octily leverages nearly two decades of deep work in HR software development and user experience. "Octily makes the impossible - possible." With a team spanning from Berlin, Germany, to San Francisco, USA, Octily is a firm believer in remote work, a small environmental footprint, and maximum use of productivity, communication, and collaboration tools. Over the past five years, Octily has helped global HR teams from more than 50 organizations customize their Cornerstone OnDemand & Saba Cloud. Organizations including Bosch, Deutsche Post DHL, Electrolux, and Xella have trusted Octily in 200+ unique projects for their 3+ million users.

For more information, visit https://octily.com, download http://octi.ly/overview or contact us at [email protected]

Related Files

Octily_CaseStudy_Electrolux.pdf

Octily_Overview.pdf

Related Images

octily-celebrates-milestone-50th.jpeg

Octily Celebrates Milestone - 50th Cornerstone Client and 200th Unique Customization Project

Octily team members celebrating their biggest milestone so far

Related Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VVXvJ5SzxFQ

SOURCE Octily
TULSA, Okla., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- On May 25, 2021, ONE Gas, Inc. (NYSE: OGS) announced via a Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission the retirement of its president and chief executive officer, Pierce H Norton II, effective June 27, 2021. Commensurate with Mr. Norton's retirement date, he will also resign as a director of the ONE Gas Board of Directors. Mr. Norton has accepted the role of president and chief executive officer of ONEOK Inc. (NYSE: OKE) effective on June 28, 2021.

"Since the formation of ONE Gas in 2014, we have focused on executing our mission, vision and strategic plan with the guidance of our core values. The result is a culture that creates value for all stakeholders and is built to appropriately and effectively navigate leadership change. I have been extremely fortunate to have been surrounded by a strong executive team the last seven years and to have worked alongside our 3,700 talented and dedicated employees," said Pierce Norton outgoing president and chief executive officer of ONE Gas. The company is well positioned for continued growth and sustainability under new leadership," Norton added.

"I want to thank Pierce for his leadership and organizational development efforts since the startup of ONE Gas. With him as CEO, the company has created a lasting culture built upon our core values and a strong sustainable business model," said John W. Gibson, Chairman of the Board of ONE Gas.

The Corporate Governance Committee, led by Eduardo Rodriguez, has already begun taking the necessary actions to recommend Mr. Norton's replacement to the Board of Directors. Due to the board's established succession planning process which has been an ongoing and continuous part of the board's oversight, the board anticipates a decision and an announcement within a few weeks.

ONE Gas, Inc. (NYSE: OGS) is a 100-percent regulated natural gas utility, and trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "OGS." ONE Gas is included in the S&P MidCap 400 Index and is one of the largest natural gas utilities in the United States.

Headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, ONE Gas provides a reliable and affordable energy choice to more than 2.2 million customers in Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas. Its divisions include Kansas Gas Service, the largest natural gas distributor in Kansas; Oklahoma Natural Gas, the largest in Oklahoma; and Texas Gas Service, the third largest in Texas, in terms of customers.

For more information and the latest news about ONE Gas, visit onegas.com and follow its social channels: @ONEGas, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Analyst Contact: Brandon Lohse

918-947-7472

Media Contact: Leah Harper

918-947-7123

SOURCE ONE Gas, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.onegas.com


Friends of Puerto Rico, since 2015, has developed a combination of training, education, and mentoring initiatives to support communities in need by promoting entrepreneurship.

"PenFed is proud to partner with Friends of Puerto Rico and supports its mission to bring economic development to the people of Puerto Rico through entrepreneurship, education, and creating opportunities for women and girls," said Jamie Gayton, Executive Vice President of Member Operations.

"At the local level, 16.6% is part of self-employment in Puerto Rico, and we are grateful to PenFed for this opportunity to support our women and children by working together as partners. We remain committed to the future of Puerto Rico," said Angelique Sina, President of Friends of Puerto Rico.

Joining efforts to support mentoring

The alliance includes the training of entrepreneurs through the AMIGAS network and its entrepreneurship incubator, which has impacted more than 500+ women since 2017, providing mentoring and networking support in a community driven by professional women who inspire positive actions and leadership.

The accelerator managed by Friends of Puerto Rico is an intensive program that provides the first steps to put your idea into action and generate revenue as an entrepreneur.

"The best way to support Puerto Rico is by empowering the community, creating opportunities, and helping people improve their finances. PenFed continues to invest in the resilient people of Puerto Rico," said Gayton.

To learn more about the entrepreneurship programs and how to enroll or get involved, visit www.friendsofpuertorico.org/amigas or via e-mail [email protected].

About PenFed Credit Union

Established in 1935, Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed) is America's second-largest federal credit union, serving 2.3 million members worldwide with $28 billion in assets. PenFed Credit Union offers market-leading certificates, checking, credit cards, personal loans, mortgages, auto loans, student loans, and a wide range of other financial services. Our mission is to empower members of our community to achieve their financial well-being. PenFed Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA and is an Equal Housing Lender. To learn more about PenFed Credit Union, visit PenFed.org, like us on Facebook and follow us @PenFed on Twitter. Interested in working for PenFed? Check us out on LinkedIn. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

About Friends of Puerto Rico

Friends of Puerto Rico is a non-partisan, non-profit 501(c)(3) social impact organization headquartered in Washington, DC, focused on mobilizing a network of partners to create economic opportunities for the people of Puerto Rico. Friends of Puerto Rico supports the economic development of the Puerto Rican people through entrepreneurial initiatives, education, and creating opportunities for women and girls.

IG: @friendsofpuertorico | Twitter: @friendsofPR | LinkedIN: Friends of Puerto Rico | FB: Friends of Puerto Rico

www.friendsofpuertorico.org

SOURCE PenFed Credit Union

Related Links

http://www.PenFed.org


Slated as the 'Gateway to South Asia', the project is a Public Private Partnership between the Government of Sri Lanka and project company CHEC Port City Colombo. Port City Colombo is situated alongside the Port of Colombo, which is ranked as the World's 18 th best connected Port, and is designed to strike a virtuous balance between commercial, residential and retail spaces.

The Colombo International Financial Centre Phase 1, which is the first vertical development, is scheduled to break ground in June 2021 and will comprise of state-of-the-art business infrastructure with a commitment to International Green Building Standards. All registered entities can enjoy 100% foreign ownership with the opportunity to benefit from relaxed exchange control regulations within the zone.

Yamuna Jayaratne, Director Sales and Marketing for Port City Colombo, said, "Port City will enjoy a cost advantage of nearly 80% compared with regional hubs such as Singapore and Dubai. The enactment of the Colombo Port City Economic Commission Bill will serve to enhance the ease of doing business and bring it to parity along with regional hubs and most importantly address investor pain points that currently dissuades FDI. Coupled with cost advantages, geographic location and the quality of life on offer in Sri Lanka, this would serve as a first step in creating a compelling value proposition for investors. Port City Colombo provides an enviable physical setting required to compete with any world class modern metropolitan city."

CHEC Colombo Port City invites investors from around the world to invest early, gaining a foothold in South Asia's city of the future. More information about the project can be found at https://www.portcitycolombo.lk/

For further information, contact:

Yamuna Jayaratne

Number: +94-112-335-141

Email ID: [email protected]

SOURCE Port City Colombo
MONTREAL, May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Montreal-based company Premier Continuum, which specializes in organizational resilience (business continuity, IT disaster recovery, crisis management, emergency preparedness and risk management), has won two prestigious awards at the BCI Americas Awards 2021: Provider of the Year and Innovation of the Year.

Provider of the Year

Every year, the BCI Americas Awards recognizes a North American player that stood out as an outstanding provider in the continuity and resilience sector.

The Premier Continuum (PCI) team's greatest strength is that it understands and supports its clients during every step of their organizational risk management. The company offers three unique and complementary services: in-depth consulting services, certified training and world-class software, ParaSolution.

Over time, and particularly in 2020, a year overshadowed by the global pandemic, Premier Continuum has become a natural extension of its North American clients' continuity teams. As a result, PCI has carved out a premier position for itself, as confirmed by the Provider of the Year award won.

"We are truly invested in our clients' success and these prestigious awards confirm that our approach works," said Isabelle Primeau, Founder and President of Premier Continuum.

In 2019, the prestigious Gartner organization named Premier Continuum as a global leader. This recognition, combined with the two awards it won in 2021, cements Premier Continuum as a leader in its field.

About Premier Continuum Inc. and ParaSolution

Premier Continuum is owned and operated by two women who won the 2016 RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Award. Founded in 1997, the company is known as a global player. Its clients range from small to large organizations in the financial, manufacturing, and government sectors, and many more. It is seeing strong growth in Canada, the United States and around the world.

Developed by Premier Continuum, ParaSolution is a world-class, award-winning, web-based solution that provides comprehensive business continuity management and can be adapted to any organization. Thanks to ParaSolution, organizations can have peace of mind knowing they are adopting an approach supported by best practices.

For more information, visit www.premiercontinuum.com.

About BCI

The Business Continuity Institute is a non-profit organization that sets guidelines, trains professionals and gathers research in the business continuity field.

For more information, visit www.thebci.org.

SOURCE Premier Continuum Inc.

Related Links

https://www.premiercontinuum.com/


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WASHINGTON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A group of private sector companies and social enterprises today formed a new partnership to offer business-led solutions in Central America to support economic opportunity.

The Partnership for Central America is a non-profit organization created in response to a Call to Action by Vice President Kamala Harris, in her role overseeing diplomacy towards the Northern Triangle and Mexico. The Partnership aims to coordinate practical solutions to advance economic opportunity, address urgent climate, education and health challenges, and promote long-term investments and workforce capability in support of a vision of hope for Central America.

Partnership members will make significant commitments to help send hope to the people of the region and sustainably address the root causes of migration by promoting economic opportunity.

The founding members of the Partnership include twelve companies and organizations: Accion, Bancolombia, Chobani, Davivienda, Duolingo, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Mastercard, Microsoft, Nespresso, ProMujer, Tent Partnership for Refugees and the World Economic Forum.

Information on what each Partnership member is doing in the region and new initiatives can be found at: https://www.centampartnership.org/initiatives

"The private and social sectors can draw on their unique resources and expertise to make commitments to support inclusive economic growth in the Northern Triangle," said Vice President Kamala Harris. "Together, we can work to overcome obstacles to investment, promote economic opportunity, and support long-term development in the region."

The Partnership for Central America, working with the U.S. Department of State, will coordinate follow-up to the Vice President's Call to Action, which will involve:

Connecting businesses with relevant U.S. interagency partners, such as USAID, DFC, the Department of Commerce, Department of Labor, among others; non-governmental organizations (NGOs), multilateral development banks, UN agencies, other international organizations, and relevant government officials from the region to facilitate potential new partnerships and commitments.

Coordinating private sector partners to ensure sustained progress through strategic and high-impact initiatives aligned to social impact goals, and facilitating joint ventures between new and existing partners across global public, private, and social sectors.

Offering feedback on potential private sector initiatives, based on an assessment of potential migrants' needs in the region.

Working with partner governments and institutions to promote reforms that address impediments to investment and foster a business-enabling environment.

Establishing metrics to measure the impact of commitments made in response to the Call to Action , to track program effectiveness and identify key trends across key economic and social impact metrics.

, to track program effectiveness and identify key trends across key economic and social impact metrics. Convening public forums and facilitating discussions on challenges, trends, and progress toward aspired social impact goals.

The Partnership welcomes additional commitments to join this initiative and promote economic opportunity in the Northern Triangle.

The Partnership will be led by an Executive Committee that includes: Luis von Ahn, Co-founder & CEO, Duolingo; Ajay Banga, Chairman, Mastercard; Brge Brende, President, World Economic Forum; Maria Cavalcanti, President & CEO, ProMujer; Ray Chambers, WHO Ambassador for Global Strategy & Health Financing; Guillaume Le Cunff, CEO, Nespresso; Efrain Forero, CEO, Davivienda Bank; Michael Froman, Vice Chairman & President of Strategic Growth, Mastercard; Dr. Helene Gayle, President & CEO, The Chicago Community Trust; Alfonso Gonzalez, CEO, Nespresso North America; Kenneth Hersh, President, CEO & Board Member George W. Bush Presidential Center; Jack Leslie, Chairman, Weber Shandwick; Jonathan Fantini Porter, co-Founder & Executive Founder, The Partnership for Central America; Michael Schlein, President & CEO, Accion; Klaus Schwab, Founder & Chairman, The World Economic Forum; Brad Smith, President, Microsoft; Hamdi Ulukaya, Founder and CEO of Chobani and Tent Partnership for Refugees; Dr. Michelle Williams, Dean of the Faculty, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

For more information, please visit: https://www.centampartnership.org/

SOURCE Partnership for Central America
AMSTERDAM, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In its effort to develop effective cellular immunotherapies for cancer treatment, the Regensburg Center for Interventional Immunology (RCI) in Germany has purchased LUMICKS' z-Movi Cell Avidity Analyzer. The placement highlights the promise of measuring cell avidity between immune cells and their tumor targets to improve the selection of chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) and accelerate the development of new CAR-T therapies.

The new instrument has been placed in the lab of Dr. Hinrich Abken, Professor and Chair for Genetic Immunotherapy at Regensburg University. Professor Abken is a pioneer in the design and development of CAR T cells for cancer malignancies. His current work is aimed at improving T cell targeting of cancer cells and at translating these strategies into clinical trials.

"We expect to gain greater insight into the mechanism of CAR mediated tumor cell recognition and into the selection of the most potent CAR for clinical application," Prof. Abken said. LUMICKS' z-Movi Cell Avidity Analyzer will be used by his team to measure the binding strengths between CAR T cells and tumor cells. The instrument is intended to take part in the developmental pipeline for identifying novel therapeutic immune cell interactions that could be exploited to enhance the efficacy of adoptive cell therapy.

LUMICKS looks forward to supporting one of the leading research centers for interventional immunology in Europe. "In this exciting time, where immunology has emerged as an essential approach to treating cancer, we are excited that RCI will be using the z-Movi to advance their immunotherapy research," said LUMICKS CSO Dr. Andrea Candelli. "We believe the z-Movi can enable Professor Abken and his team to bring new insights into the mechanisms of adoptive cell therapy and to accelerate the development of novel CAR T cell targeting strategies."

About LUMICKS

LUMICKS is a leading life science tools company that develops equipment for Dynamic Single-Molecule and Cell Avidity analysis, two rapidly emerging areas in biology research and immuno-oncology. Built upon innovative technologies, such as optical tweezers (Nobel Prize for Physics 2018) and STED super-resolution microscopy (Nobel Prize for Chemistry 2014), LUMICKS tools facilitate the understanding of life to the smallest detail.

LUMICKS tools allow researchers to build the crucial and as yet unfinished bridge between structure and function at both a molecular and a cellular level. This is achieved by applying and measuring forces around biological interactions, enabling the detailed real-time analysis of underlying biological mechanisms. LUMICKS' groundbreaking C-Trap Optical Tweezers  Fluorescence & Label-free Microscopy, allows scientists to analyze complex biological processes in real-time. Similarly, the z-Movi Cell Avidity Analyzer enables the measurement and selection of immune cells based on their real-time interactions with target cells. The company was founded in 2014 as an academic spin-off from the research group of Prof. Gijs Wuite, Prof. Erwin Peterman, and Prof. Iddo Heller at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. For more information, visit the company's website at www.lumicks.com.

About z-Movi



The z-Movi Cell Avidity Analyzer is a novel platform that rapidly measures the binding strength between target and immune cells, providing high-throughput results with single-cell resolution. Cell avidity data are key metrics that correlate with the biological outcome of cellular immunotherapies. Cell avidity insights provide researchers with reproducible and predictive information about the best therapeutic candidates at an early stage, potentially leading to improved candidate selection and dramatically faster drug development. Since its release in 2020, the z-Movi has been adopted by leading biotech and pharmaceutical companies around the world to accelerate the entry of cell therapies into clinical trials.

About RCI

The RCI Regensburg Center for Interventional Immunology, an extra-university research center, focuses on translational immunology in the fields of cancer immunotherapy, chronic inflammation and autoimmunity. Its objective is to develop effective cellular immunotherapies in these areas.

For more information contact:

Name: Kassandra Barbetsea, PR & Marketing

Phone: +31 (0) 63 482 09 48

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE LUMICKS
MIAMI, May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) has received approval to resume sailings from the United States after more than a year of suspended operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. On June 26, the cruise company will mark a long-awaited return with Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Edge departing from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale.

"Cruising from the U.S. is back!" said Richard D. Fain, Royal Caribbean Group chairman and CEO. "After months of working with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other government officials, our Healthy Sail Panel and industry partners, we can again offer cruise lovers the chance to enjoy the wonders of cruising. We are truly thankful to reach this special milestone."

The cruise company's return is heralded with a sailing on its much lauded, state-of-the-art, luxury ship Celebrity Edge. The ship was given the go-ahead by the CDC to be the first ship back in the water, meeting all new standards for delivering a safe and healthy cruise experience for guests and crew. The inaugural sailing from Fort Lauderdale sets the stage for Royal Caribbean Group to announce additional itineraries, reviving local U.S. port economies and kick-starting the rebound in cruise tourism around the world.

All sailings will depart with vaccinated crew and everyone over the age of 16 must present proof of vaccination against COVID-19; as of August 1, 2021, all guests ages 12 and older must present proof of vaccination.

About Royal Caribbean Group

Royal Caribbean Group is the operating business name for Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Royal Caribbean Group is the owner and operator of three global cruise vacation brands: Royal Caribbean International , Celebrity Cruises , and Silversea Cruises . Royal Caribbean Group is also a 50% owner of a joint venture that operates TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. Together, our brands operate 59 ships with an additional 15 on order as of March 15, 2021. Learn more at www.royalcaribbeangroup.com or www.rclinvestor.com .

SOURCE Royal Caribbean Group

Related Links

http://www.rclcorporate.com


SAN MARCOS, Calif., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A palliative care physician, educator, and leader whose work has helped to expand access to pediatric palliative care for seriously ill children across the San Diego region has been named the 2021 recipient of the CSU Shiley Institute for Palliative Care Doris A. Howell, MD, Award for Advancing Palliative Care.

Ami Doshi, MD, director of Palliative Care Inpatient Services at Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, the largest children's hospital in the state, is this year's Howell honoree, the Institute announced today. Dr. Doshi created the hospital's palliative care consult service in 2010, making palliative care support available to countless children and families in San Diego, Imperial, and Riverside counties grappling with a range of serious or life-limiting conditions.

Dr. Doshi is also vice chair of Faculty Development at the UC San Diego Department of Pediatrics and has significantly helped grow primary palliative care expertise among pediatricians, hospitalists, intensivists, and others, through her work locally and through pediatric palliative care workshops at national conferences.

Because of Dr. Doshi's commitment to providing high-quality pediatric palliative care, hundreds of families have been positively impacted forever, according to Gail Knight, MD, senior vice president and chief medical officer at Rady Children's Hospital, who nominated Doshi for the award.

"We're thrilled to honor Dr. Doshi and her team in their work with children and families impacted by serious illness," said Jennifer Moore Ballentine, executive director of the Institute. "Her compassion for patients and passion for teaching are exactly the qualities exemplified by Dr. Howell."

The Howell award is named after the late Dr. Doris Howell, a legendary physician and pioneer in pediatric hematology, oncology and community medicine who in 1977 founded San Diego Hospice and the Institute for Palliative Medicine (SDHIPM).

A $25,000 gift in Dr. Howell's honor from philanthropist Darlene Marcos Shiley accompanies the annual award and is bestowed on a local healthcare organization with ties to the selected recipient. This year's gift will be directed to the Rady Children's Hospital Foundation, at Dr. Doshi's request.

For more information about the Institute and/or the Howell award, visit csupalliativecare.org.

About the CSU Shiley Institute for Palliative Care

The CSU Shiley Institute for Palliative Care leverages the strength of the CSU system to expand access to and awareness of palliative care by training current and future health care professionals, using a groundbreaking online educational model that emphasizes a whole-person, patient-centered approach aimed at improving quality of life for people with serious or life-limiting illness.

CONTACT:

Cibelle Burger

CSU Shiley Institute for Palliative Care

760-750-7292

[email protected]



SOURCE CSU Shiley Institute for Palliative Care

Related Links

http://www.csupalliativecare.org


SUNNYVALE, Calif. and INTERNET, Everywhere, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Google Cloud and Shopify , a leading global commerce company, today announced an expanded partnership that will enable Shopify's more than 1.7 million merchants to have access to Google Cloud's technology across a broader set of regions. And, by leveraging Google Cloud's power-efficient resources globally, Shopify is working to reduce its overall carbon footprint while delivering a better experience for merchants and their consumers.

In 2020, Shopify merchants generated nearly $120 billion in gross merchandise volume , as more businesses moved online in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and accelerated shifts in consumer behavior. As the demand for ecommerce continues to increase, Shopify's expanded partnership with Google Cloud will bring data processing and storage closer to merchants in more regions, to further improve store speed and performance.

In 2020, Shopify's revenue increased 86% year-over-year and Black Friday sales grew 75% from the previous year. The demand for independent, direct-to-consumer shopping is only increasing, and this extended partnership between Shopify and Google Cloud will mean small- and medium-sized businesses globally will have even more access to world-class infrastructure to effectively handle all levels of traffic.

As a part of this partnership, Shopify will leverage Google Cloud's global infrastructure to reduce latency and give shoppers more personalized, engaging experiences, including:

Google Cloud's network of 25 regions and 76 availability zones around the world provides lower latency and higher reliability, allowing Shopify to provide a fast, highly-available service to merchants around the world.

Google's Global Virtual Private Cloud (VPC ) will make it easier for Shopify to write and deploy applications that span multiple regions.

) will make it easier for Shopify to write and deploy applications that span multiple regions. In-country disaster recovery will help Shopify maintain business continuity across the globe.

Google Cloud's services will assist Shopify in meeting various regulatory, security, and compliance requirements, which vary region-to-region and country-to-country.

The cleanest cloud in the industry, Google Cloud is helping Shopify reduce its carbon footprint and achieve the company's sustainability goals.

Additionally, Shopify will join Google Cloud's Partner Advantage program, enabling the two companies to partner on joint go-to-market initiatives, bringing Shopify's ecommerce platform to more businesses around the world.

"Our partnership with Google Cloud will mean that more Shopify merchants around the world have access to competitive computing technologies that would otherwise only be available to enterprise brands," said Farhan Thawar, VP of Engineering, Shopify. "We know that during the COVID-19 pandemic from mid-March to mid-Sept, 84% of consumers have shopped online . Improved store speed and performance will give our merchants a competitive edge by allowing them to better serve buyers where they are, and it will do so in the most energy efficient way possible through Google Cloud."

"Shopify is trusting Google Cloud to help the company scale across the globe, allowing its merchants to handle peak traffic at any time of the year," said James Lambe, Managing Director, Google Cloud. "Over the last three years, we've worked with Shopify engineering to ensure its business can scale as it continues to experience rapid growth. We're thrilled to continue on this journey together."

About Shopify

Shopify is a leading global commerce company, providing trusted tools to start, grow, market, and manage a retail business of any size. Shopify makes commerce better for everyone with a platform and services that are engineered for reliability, while delivering a better shopping experience for consumers everywhere. Proudly founded in Ottawa, Shopify powers over 1.7 million businesses in more than 175 countries and is trusted by brands such as Allbirds, Gymshark, Heinz, Staples Canada, and many more.

About Google Cloud

Google Cloud provides organizations with leading infrastructure, platform capabilities and industry solutions. We deliver enterprise-grade cloud solutions that leverage Google's cutting-edge technology to help companies operate more efficiently and adapt to changing needs, giving customers a foundation for the future. Customers in more than 150 countries turn to Google Cloud as their trusted partner to solve their most critical business problems.

SOURCE Google Cloud
HAMPSHIRE, England, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A study done during the UK's first lockdown, involving nearly 2000 respondents from around the UK has found that, contrary to some previous hopeful reports, COVID-19 may have dealt a serious blow to the UK's ambitions to become smokefree in the coming decade. In a paper published this week based on the study, the authors warn about worrying changes in smoking and smoking cessation behaviours.

We already know that a higher proportion of unemployed adults, those in manual occupations, and those with mental health conditions are likely to smoke compared to the general population in the UK. "Findings from our research study showed that smokers under 45 years of age, a higher proportion of those in managerial and professional occupations, and current dual users reported increased smoking in lockdown. It is concerning to see that a change in the smokers' and their healthcare advisers' routines during the COVID-19 pandemic are threatening to reverse the past few decades of gains in stubbing out smoking in the country. The broader aim of our Smokefree UK project is to identify the barriers and opportunities to help all the remaining smokers to quit sustainably", states Dr Sudhanshu Patwardhan, Medical Director of the Hampshire based Centre for Health Research and Education (CHRE) and study lead.

Two groups of respondents were surveyed in this study: 'consumers' and their likely health 'influencers'. Nearly one thousand consumers were surveyed, including current smokers and dual users (consumers who smoke as well as vape) and ex-smokers. An increase in smoking was reported by 67% of smokers and dual users during the COVID-19 lockdown. The COVID-19 situation changed the plans to quit smoking in 36% of smokers and dual users, with only 6% deciding to quit.

A greater proportion of respondents in managerial and professional occupations reported increased smoking, and dual users reduced vaping, during the lockdown. Ms Claudia Trainer, co-author and Consultant at Ogilvy Consulting's Behavioural Science Practice admits that it is a worrying finding and explains "Many people have transitioned to working from home during the pandemic. This may provide more environmental opportunity to smoke, with different social influences, than in the workplace. Additionally, lockdowns can heighten feelings of stress and boredom."

Rory Sutherland, Vice Chairman of Ogilvy and founder of Ogilvy Consulting's Behavioural Science Practice, applies behavioural economics to the findings, "There has been a significant change in routine which is commonly associated with formation of new habits. Stress and uncertainly related to the COVID-19 pandemic has produced a lot of unintended negative consequences on many people's mental health and lifestyle. These might only be evident over the next few decades, but could add significant health as well as financial burdens on society."

Dr Patwardhan states the urgency of action needed in response to these findings: "Especially worrying is the resurgence of smoking among the under-45 year old professionals. They are otherwise healthy, rarely seek general practice appointments or other health advice, and if not proactively given support to quit smoking now, could directly present with a tobacco related disease in the near future."

Besides consumers, another thousand respondents were surveyed from professions that may have a role in influencing smokers' decision and outcome in stopping smoking. These included general practitioners, practice nurses, community mental health nurses, dentists, stop smoking advisors, pharmacists and vape shop owners. COVID-19 put an unprecedented strain on the healthcare system, with many consultations done remotely. It was evident that inquiring about smoking and offering opportunistic cessation support got deprioritised in routine general practice. E.g., only 40% of healthcare professionals documented patient smoking status in over half their interactions.

Dr Patwardhan sums up "COVID-19 and its related social and health impact may linger for the foreseeable future. We need to keep smoking cessation and relapse prevention top on the healthcare agenda and support all smokers to 'commit to quit'. The "new normal" reality of health-seeking behaviour and remote clinical practice is going to be part of our lives. It will be crucial for innovators of smoking cessation tools such as smartphone apps, and manufacturers of suitably regulated safer nicotine products, to provide the necessary breadth of choice and a sustainable way out of smoking for Britain's remaining nearly seven million smokers.

Notes to Editors

More than 14% of adults in England (more than 6 million people) smoke cigarettes regularly

(more than 6 million people) smoke cigarettes regularly Chronic smoking kills over eighty thousand people in the UK every year

The Government has stated its ambitions to have a 'smokefree England ' by 2030, that is, with less than 5% of regular adult smokers.

' by 2030, that is, with less than 5% of regular adult smokers. The UK's journey to becoming smokefree (defined as <5% smoking prevalence) can be considered to be in its final laps.

May 31 st is the World Health Organization promoted 'World No Tobacco Day'. This year's theme is "Commit to Quit".

is the World Health Organization promoted 'World No Tobacco Day'. This year's theme is "Commit to Quit". The study referred to in this release is published as a pre-print on MedRxiv. It was not peer reviewed.

The Royal College of Physician's (RCP) 'Smoking and health 2021' report published last week stated that modelling of current tobacco control policies shows a failure to achieve a smoking prevalence of <5% until after 2050.

About the Centre for Health Research and Education (CHRE):

CHRE is an independent, Hampshire UK based healthcare company founded by medical doctors with a mission of global cancer prevention.

based healthcare company founded by medical doctors with a mission of global cancer prevention. CHRE were supported by Ogilvy Consulting's Behavioural Science Practice in the design of the questionnaires and data analysis, and Atomik Research for executing the market research

This report is part of CHRE's 'Smokefree UK' project. The project is conceptualised, designed, led and managed by CHRE. CHRE applied for and was awarded a grant from the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World, Inc (FSFW) for a part of this project. The contents, selection, and presentation of facts, as well as any opinions expressed herein are the sole responsibility of the authors and under no circumstances shall be regarded as reflecting the positions of FSFW.

CHRE's philosophy and approach are to bridge the policy and practice gap in delivering smoking cessation treatments and services globally.

www.chre-uk.com

SOURCE Centre for Health Research and Education
STOCKHOLM, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- EQT Infrastructure is pleased to note that FirstGroup's shareholders have voted in support of its offer to acquire First Student and First Transit (the "Company"). EQT Infrastructure is looking forward to the expected closing of the transaction and to starting the development and sustainable transformation journey with the Company.

EQT Infrastructure remains excited about the future partnership with management and the ambition is to support the realization of the full potential of both businesses. EQT Infrastructure's intention is to make significant investments in the Company's organization, operations and digital technology as well as in the electrification of the Companies' fleet of buses to de-carbonize the fleet and thereby contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment.

The transaction is subject to customary conditions and approvals and is expected to close in the Summer of 2021.

Contact

EQT Press Office

+46 8 506 55 334

[email protected]

About EQT

EQT is a purpose-driven global investment organization with more than EUR 67 billion in assets under management across 26 active funds. EQT funds have portfolio companies in Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Americas with total sales of approximately EUR 29 billion and more than 175,000 employees. EQT works with portfolio companies to achieve sustainable growth, operational excellence and market leadership.

More info: www.eqtgroup.com

Follow EQT on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/eqt/r/statement-regarding-eqt-infrastructure-s-successful-acquisition-of-first-student-and-first-transit,c3355271

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/87/3355271/1423773.pdf Press Release EQT Infra FirstGroup vote outcome 210527

SOURCE EQT
Combined Solution Portfolio Will Offer More Comprehensive Options to Deliver a Complete Customer Experience

CHICAGO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Syndigo, a Chicago-based leading SaaS product information and syndication company, and a portfolio company of Summit Partners and The Jordan Company, today announced the acquisition of Riversand, a leading cloud-native SaaS Master Data Management (MDM) and Product Information Management (PIM) solution provider. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The acquisition expands Syndigo's position as a global provider of end-to-end solutions for product information, adding enhanced PIM capabilities plus flexible MDM across multiple domains and systems. The acquisition also allows Syndigo to bring its custom syndication and analytics capabilities to Riversand's client base, offering a seamless transfer of information across the product ecosystem.

"This partnership will open countless opportunities for our clients around the world," said Syndigo CEO Paul Salay. "Combining Riversand's expertise in MDM and PIM with Syndigo's leading capabilities in enhanced content, syndication and data analytics means more data  better data  for all of our clients."

"Both organizations strongly believe that for our nearly 14,000 clients to succeed, we must deliver product information solutions that are built to serve brands, retailers and distributors alike," continued Salay. "Our connectivity and added capabilities between the two solutions will continue to help maximize the speed to market for our clients. We look forward to growing globally together."

"As we carefully considered how to help our clients accelerate their growth, we determined that Syndigo was an ideal fit for clients to enhance their entire product information supply chain," said Riversand Co-Founder and CEO Upen Varanasi. "Our clients, employees, and partners make up a team that delivers a wealth and breadth of functionality unmatched in the industry. Together with Syndigo, we will continue to further improve upon the data that flows throughout their various domains and systems."

Recognized as a Leader in the Gartner January 2021 Magic Quadrant for Master Data Management Solutions, Riversand has built a strong partner and alliance network that further complements their technological capabilities and broadens their global reach. The complementary fit of Riversand's rich offerings with Syndigo will empower clients to deliver more engaging global customer experiences by optimizing product and master data management strategies through an end-to-end solution.

About Syndigo

Syndigo enables commerce by supporting the efficient transfer of product information through its network of brands and their customers. The company provides descriptive product and nutritional information, images and other digital media, powered by deep analytics to empower engaging brand experiences online and in store. Through Syndigo's integrated platform, Content Experience Hub, clients can publish, manage, syndicate and audit product content across the largest trading network of brands and recipients in the world.

Syndigo serves more than 12,000 manufacturers and 1,750 retailers and distributors globally in many important consumer industries including grocery, foodservice, hardlines, home improvement/DIY, pet, health and beauty, automotive, apparel, and healthcare products. For more information, please visit www.syndigo.com .

Learn more about the announcement here: https://www.syndigo.com/riversand/

About Riversand

Riversand provides a Master Data Experience Platform (MDxP), enabling customers to leverage their data through intelligent insights, automation, and multi-domain SaaS solutions. Riversand's MDxP platform is the engine that powers customers' digital transformation journeys through improved business agility, faster adoption and improved collaboration across the enterprise. Driving data to experiences and insights, Riversand has a vision of helping companies know their customers better, move products faster, automate processes, mitigate risk and run their businesses smarter. Visit https://www.riversand.com/ for more information and follow @RiversandMDM on Twitter and Riversand on LinkedIn.

About Summit Partners

Founded in 1984, Summit Partners is a global alternative investment firm that is currently managing more than $23 billion in capital dedicated to growth equity, fixed income and public equity opportunities. Summit invests across growth sectors of the economy and has invested in more than 500 companies in technology, healthcare and other growth industries. These companies have completed more than 160 public equity offerings, and more than 200 have been acquired through strategic mergers and sales. Summit has partnered with more than two dozen companies across the e-commerce and consumer landscape, including Brooklinen, Klaviyo, Solo Stove, Philz Coffee, Quay Eyewear, Reverb.com, Sezane, TinyPrints, VeriShip, MercuryGate, and vente-privee.com. Summit maintains offices in North America and Europe and invests in companies around the world. For more information, please see www.summitpartners.com or follow on LinkedIn.

About The Jordan Company

TJC ( www.thejordancompany.com ), founded in 1982, is a middle-market private equity firm that has managed funds with original capital commitments in excess of $11 billion since 1987 and a 38-year track record of investing in and contributing to the growth of many businesses across a wide range of industries including Industrials, Transportation & Logistics, Healthcare & Consumer, and Telecom, Technology & Utilities. The senior investment team has been investing together for over 20 years and is supported by the Operations Management Group, which was established in 1988 to initiate and support operational improvements in portfolio companies. Headquartered in New York, TJC also has an office in Chicago.

In the United States of America, Summit Partners operates as an SEC-registered investment advisor. In the United Kingdom, this document is issued by Summit Partners LLP, a firm authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Summit Partners LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC388179 and its registered office is at 11-12 Hanover Square, London, W1S 1JJ, UK. This document is intended solely to provide information regarding Summit Partners' potential financing capabilities for prospective portfolio companies.

SOURCE Syndigo

Related Links

www.syndigo.com


LEXINGTON, Ky., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Tempur Sealy International, Inc. (NYSE: TPX, "Tempur Sealy" or the "Company") today provided an update on its targeted second quarter sales performance. Quarter-to-date orders have accelerated since the Company's first quarter earnings call, and it now targets total second quarter net sales growth of approximately 60% as compared to the second quarter of 2019. The second quarter of 2019 was unaffected by COVID-19-related shutdowns at retail and provides a more meaningful comparison than the second quarter of 2020. The improved outlook has been driven by growth in demand for Tempur-Pedic products in the U.S., which are higher margin than the Company's average. The Company expects to update full year sales and EPS guidance when it reports second quarter 2021 financial results.

Additionally, the Company noted that while the availability of chemical and foam supplies in the U.S. has improved in-line with previously communicated expectations, demand for bedding products has accelerated further, resulting in growth in the Company's backlog during the second quarter.

Tempur Sealy International, Inc. Chairman and CEO Scott Thompson commented, "Consumer demand for our global brands and products is very strong and broad-based. This improved demand outlook is likely to result in some supply constraints and plant inefficiencies into the third quarter. In order to mitigate what we believe are industry-wide constraints and reduce complexity for retailers during this period, we have elected to delay a portion of our new Sealy U.S. product launch to allow our operations to focus on producing current products to meet this elevated demand. This is in an effort to simplify inventory management for retailers, at a time when the industry is having difficulty meeting robust customer demand. We believe this will result in higher-quality customer experiences and shorter order-to-deliver times."

Additionally, The Company announced in a separate press release today an agreement to acquire Dreams, the leading specialty bed retailer in the United Kingdom. Once closed, the transaction will accelerate the Company's growth in the largest European bedding market and the sixth largest economy in the world.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements that may be characterized as "forward-looking" within the meaning of the federal securities laws, which includes information concerning one or more of the Company's plans, objectives, goals, strategies, and other information that is not historical information. When used in this release, the words "expects," "will," "should," "would" and variations of such words or similar expressions are intended to identify such statements. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements relating to the Company's expectations regarding sales, demand trends and supply constraints, inventory management, performance generally for the second quarter of 2021 and subsequent periods, the proposed acquisition of Dreams and the Company's expectations for emerging from the market downturn . Any forward-looking statements contained herein are based upon current expectations and beliefs and various assumptions. There can be no assurance that the Company will realize these expectations or that these beliefs will prove correct.

Numerous factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control, could cause actual results to differ materially from any that may be expressed as forward-looking statements. These risk factors include risks associated with the duration, scope and severity of COVID-19 and its effects on the Company's business and operations, including the disruption or delay of production and delivery of materials and products in the Company's supply chain; the impact of the macroeconomic environment in both the U.S. and internationally on the Company's business segments; uncertainties arising from global events; the impact of travel bans, work-from-home policies, or shelter-in-place orders; a temporary or prolonged shutdown of manufacturing facilities or retail stores and decreased retail traffic; the efficiency and effectiveness of the Company's advertising campaigns and other marketing programs; consumer acceptance of the Company's products; general economic, financial and industry conditions, particularly conditions relating to liquidity, financial performance and related credit issues present in the retail sector; financial distress among the Company's business partners, customers and competitors, and financial solvency and related problems experienced by other market participants, any of which may be amplified by the effects of COVID-19; and disruptions to the implementation of the Company's strategic priorities and business plan caused by changes in its executive management team. Other potential risk factors include the risk factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in ITEM 1A of Part 1 of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020. There may be other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made.

About the Company

Tempur Sealy is committed to improving the sleep of more people, every night, all around the world. As a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of bedding products, we know how crucial a good night of sleep is to overall health and wellness. Utilizing over a century of knowledge and industry-leading innovation, we deliver award-winning products that provide breakthrough sleep solutions to consumers in over 100 countries.

Our highly recognized brands include Tempur-Pedic, Sealy and Stearns & Foster and our non-branded offerings include value-focused private label and OEM products. Our distinct brands allow for complementary merchandising strategies and are sold through third-party retailers, our Company-owned stores and e-commerce channels. This omni-channel strategy ensures our products are offered wherever and however customers want to shop.

Lastly, we accept our global responsibility to serve all stakeholders, our community and environment. We have and are implementing programs consistent with our responsibilities.

Investor Relations Contact

Aubrey Moore

Investor Relations

Tempur Sealy International, Inc.

800-805-3635

[email protected]

SOURCE Tempur Sealy International, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.tempursealy.com


LEXINGTON, Ky., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Tempur Sealy International, Inc. (NYSE: TPX, "Tempur Sealy" or the "Company") today announced it has executed an agreement to acquire Dreams, the leading specialty bed retailer in the United Kingdom, primarily from an affiliate of Sun Capital Partners, Inc. The transaction will accelerate Tempur Sealy's growth in the largest European bedding market and sixth largest economy in the world.

The transaction price is approximately $475 million, less net debt and any working capital deficit, and the transaction is expected to be accretive to Tempur Sealy's EPS by approximately $0.20 before synergies in the first year post-acquisition.

Dreams has developed a successful multi-channel sales strategy, with over 200 brick and mortar retail locations, an industry-leading online channel, as well as manufacturing and delivery assets. Dreams generated sales of approximately $400 million and EBITDA of approximately $75 million for the year ending December 31, 2020. Dreams is expected to generate annual sales of approximately $450 million in the first year post-acquisition.

Dreams will be operated as an independent business unit and led by the current management team. It is expected to complement the Company's existing UK Tempur operations and its recently-formed Sealy UK joint venture operations.

After the transaction closes, Tempur Sealy's annualized worldwide direct-to-consumer business is expected to reach $1 billion in sales and its international segment will represent over 20% of consolidated sales. The transaction will be financed through a combination of cash on hand and bank borrowings. The Company's pro forma leverage is expected to be slightly less than 2 times adjusted EBITDA as defined in the Company's credit agreement. Finally, the Company today entered into an amendment of its Senior Credit Facility which increases its liquidity by $300 million.

The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2021, subject to receipt of regulatory approval from the UK Financial Conduct Authority.

Tempur Sealy International, Inc. Chairman and CEO Scott Thompson commented, "Dreams has created a strong retailer brand and business model, known for its outstanding products and customer service. We have worked with Dreams for many years and they are one of the most talented retailers we service. They have consistently demonstrated best-in-class web marketing, customer service and sales capabilities. This acquisition better positions both organizations to service customers and bring innovative products to market. We look forward to welcoming the entire Dreams organization to the Tempur Sealy family."

Thompson continued, "This transaction is consistent with our stated strategy of acquiring companies when we see their addition as mutually beneficial and accretive to long-term shareholder value. We expect, over time, to leverage Tempur Sealy's global scale to realize synergy opportunities and long-term sales growth."

Dreams CEO Mike Logue commented, "We are delighted to be joining the Tempur Sealy family. Today marks a milestone for Dreams. It is recognition of the transformation we have delivered and an endorsement of our customer-focused strategy, our culture and our values. With Tempur Sealy, we expect to drive our growth strategy and build on our position as the most recommended specialist bed retailer in the UK. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our 2,000 colleagues for their hard work, dedication and commitment. Together we will continue to optimize what we make, sell and deliver to provide better sleep for all of our customers."

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

For additional information regarding EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA as defined in the Company's credit facility, please refer to the reconciliations and other information included in the Company's SEC filings.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements that may be characterized as "forward-looking" within the meaning of the federal securities laws, which includes information concerning one or more of the Company's plans, objectives, goals, strategies, and other information that is not historical information. When used in this release, the words "expects," "will," "should," "would" and variations of such words or similar expressions are intended to identify such statements. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements relating to the Company's acquisition of Dreams and the Company's expectations regarding future performance, EPS, cost synergies, integration with our business, personnel and the impact of the anticipated acquisition on the Company's brands, products, customer base, results of operations or financial position. Any forward-looking statements contained herein are based upon current expectations and beliefs and various assumptions. There can be no assurance that the Company will realize these expectations or that these beliefs will prove correct.

Numerous factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control, could cause actual results to differ materially from any that may be expressed as forward-looking statements. These risk factors include risks associated with Dreams' ongoing operations; the possibility that the acquisition will not occur; the possibility that the expected benefits of the acquisition are not realized when expected or at all; general economic, financial and industry conditions, particularly conditions relating to the financial performance and related credit issues present in the retail sector, as well as consumer confidence and the availability of consumer financing; the impact of the macroeconomic environment in both the U.S. and internationally on Dreams and the Company; uncertainties arising from national and global events; industry competition; the effects of consolidation of retailers on revenues and costs; and consumer acceptance and changes in demand for Dreams' and the Company's products.

Other potential risk factors include the risk factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in ITEM 1A of Part 1 of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020. There may be other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made.

About Tempur Sealy

Tempur Sealy is committed to improving the sleep of more people, every night, all around the world. As a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of bedding products, we know how crucial a good night of sleep is to overall health and wellness. Utilizing over a century of knowledge and industry-leading innovation, we deliver award-winning products that provide breakthrough sleep solutions to consumers in over 100 countries.

Our highly recognized brands include Tempur-Pedic, TEMPUR, Sealy and Stearns & Foster and our non-branded offerings include value-focused private label and OEM products. Our distinct brands allow for complementary merchandising strategies and are sold through third-party retailers, our Company-owned stores and e-commerce channels. This omni-channel strategy ensures our products are offered wherever and however customers want to shop.

Lastly, we accept our global responsibility to serve all stakeholders, our community and environment. We have and are implementing programs consistent with our responsibilities.

About Dreams

Established in 1985, Dreams is the UK's leading specialist bed retailer. With 2,000 employees across the UK, Dreams sells over ten thousand mattresses, bases and headboards per week to customers nationwide through its network of over 200 stores and online.

Dreams is a proud British business, making products in this country, as it does now at the Dreams Bed Factory in Oldbury. It currently makes hundreds of thousands of mattresses and beds a year before delivering to customers across the UK through its multiple delivery centers and dedicated fleet of vehicles.

As part of its mission to deliver Better Sleep for All, Dreams has rolled out its innovative Sleep Match technology to its stores and is proud to be the official sleep partner for Team Great Britain and Paralympics Great Britain.

Investor Relations Contact

Aubrey Moore

Investor Relations

Tempur Sealy International, Inc.

800-805-3635

[email protected]

SOURCE Tempur Sealy International, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.tempursealy.com


Assays of veins sampled at the Fourth of July claims in the Humboldt Range Project have revealed very high-grade silver (>1500 g/t) with gold credits.

Further rock chip and soil sampling assays from the Fourth of July project are expected in 2-3 weeks.

( ) (FRA:PX0) has received very high-grade silver assays accompanied by gold grades which verify and extend high-grade historical rock chip samples from the southern-most veins at Fourth of July in the Humboldt Range Project, Nevada, USA.

More than 50 assays have been received from rock-chip samples collected by the company at the Jackson, Cottonwood, Black Warrior and Lucky Dog veins.

All veins returned very high silver grades, several with bonanza grades well above 1,000 g/t, including 1,360.5 g/t, 1,110.9 g/t, >1,500 g/t, 1,374.4 g/t, 1,693.7 g/t, 1,099.2 g/t, 2,083.3 g/t, 1,070 g/t and 1,880 g/t.

These results complement and extend historical sampling which showed similar silver results and gold grades up to 17.3 g/t.

Fourth of July sampling ongoing

Fourth of July is at the southern end of PolarXs Humboldt Range Project and is less than 15 kilometres from the Rochester Mine, which hosts 400 million ounces of silver and 3 million ounces of gold.

In addition to rock chip sampling of known veins, systematic soil sampling on a notional 200 x 50-metre grid has been completed over all the Fourth of July claims, with assays expected in 2-3 weeks.

Systematic soil sampling, vein sampling and geological mapping of the more gold-dominant Black Canyon claims to the north is underway, where previous sampling returned peak vein samples of up to 3,384 g/t gold, 2,837 g/t silver, 22.9% lead and 3.1% zinc.

The company expects to receive assays in June/July and to integrate all the exploration data to define preliminary drill targets in July-August, allowing drill permitting to commence in August for a potential fourth-quarter drilling campaign.

Select historical and current PolarX rock chip gold and silver assays throughout the Fourth of July project.

2021 Alaskan drilling program

On completion of field programs in Nevada, the companys technical staff will relocate to Alaska to prepare for a core drilling program at the high-grade Caribou Dome copper project (2.8 million tonnes at 3.1% copper), which is expected to begin in August.

Caribou Dome has heightened significance to PolarXs Alaskan Range Project with copper prices now at or close to historical highs.

The drilling program is being planned for three purposes:
"We are thrilled to welcome Ben to this important new role," said Justin Bealhen, vice president of Business Development at United Heartland. "During his tenure at United Heartland, Ben has demonstrated elite levels of leadership, team building, and insurance acumen that will serve him well in this expanded capacity. Kansas City has been an important region to United Heartland, and Ben's leadership will help us continue to build on our commitment to our customers."

Richeson has more than 10 years of workers' compensation insurance experience. He began with United Heartland in 2015, serving as Regional Claims Manager. Prior to joining United Heartland, he was a unit manager in the workers' compensation division of Travelers Insurance. Richeson also worked for eight years in risk management with the Kansas City Star and John Deere & Company. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Safety Management from the University of Central Missouri and an MBA from the University of St. Mary.

Licensed in all 50 states, United Heartland is a leading workers' compensation carrier with a customized approach to loss control, claims management and underwriting. The company focuses on six key business segments  education, health care, long-term care, manufacturing, non-profits/social services and wholesale/retail.

About United Heartland

United Heartland is the marketing name for United Wisconsin Insurance Company, a member of AF Group. Insurance policies may be issued by any of the following companies within AF Group: Accident Fund Insurance Company of America, Accident Fund National Insurance Company, Accident Fund General Insurance Company, United Wisconsin Insurance Company, Third Coast Insurance Company or CompWest Insurance Company.

Contact:

Bob Lapinski

(517) 331-4890

[email protected]

AFGroup.com

SOURCE United Heartland; AF Group
RESTON, Va., and BIRMINGHAM, England, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Ellucian, the leading higher education technology solutions provider, today announced that the University of Birmingham will be upgrading to cloud in support of its digital transformation initiatives. The university, a longtime Ellucian customer, joins the more than 1,100 institutions worldwide that have chosen Ellucian as their cloud partner.

The University of Birmingham's move to cloud is part of Student Administration Refresh and Simplification (StARS+), a university-wide program to simplify, standardize and improve student administration services, including registration, attendance, student dashboards and processing assessment and results. Ellucian Banner, a comprehensive ERP solution, is a key component of this program and will allow the university to considerably reduce the risks associated with maintaining multiple in-house systems. This will free the university's IT and Professional Services staff to provide more personalized support to students and faculty instead of focusing on administrative tasks.

In addition, Banner is a key component of the university's standard curriculum redesign and will support micro-credentials while providing flexibility for their degree classifications.

"Given Birmingham's long established and successful partnership with Ellucian it made sense to work together to take the next step of the University's digital transformation journey by migrating to the Cloud. This will provide the platform for the University to realise significant transformational benefits and improve the student and staff experience. At the same time it will allow our systems to respond faster to the increasing demands for change, whether that be regulatory or staff and student expectation driven," said Mark Gee, CIO, at University of Birmingham.

"For more than 20 years, Ellucian has witnessed firsthand the University of Birmingham's commitment to providing their students and staff with the best possible experience. Moving to the cloud will streamline processes and empower university leaders with integrated data across systems delivering insights to support student success. We appreciate the trust they have placed in us as the end-to-end partner on their transformation journey," said Darren Hunt, Senior Vice President and Managing Director EMEA and APAC, Ellucian.

About Ellucian

Ellucian is charting the digital future of higher education with a portfolio of cloud-ready technology solutions and services. From student recruitment to workforce analytics; from fundraising opportunities to alumni engagement; Ellucian's comprehensive suite of data-rich tools gives colleges and universities the information they need to lead with confidence.

Working with a community of more than 2,700 customers in over 50 countries, Ellucian keeps innovating as higher education keeps evolving. Drawing on its comprehensive higher education business acumen and suite of services, Ellucian guides its customers through manageable, sustainable digital transformationso that every type of institution and student can thrive in today's fast-changing landscape. To find out what's next in higher education solutions and services, visit Ellucian at www.ellucian.com.

Media Contact

Lindsay Stanley

[email protected]

SOURCE Ellucian

Related Links

http://www.ellucian.com


NEW YORK, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Audio-based media is experiencing a massive rise, across podcasts, streaming services and even social media platforms, with new live-audio platforms and features gaining steam. As a result, consumer brands are racing to reach new audiences and create brand awareness in as many ears as possible. According to a new data report from leading audio intelligence platform, Veritonic, many of today's top consumer brands will fare better than others in regards to their sonic branding.

Today, Veritonic released their 2021 Audio Logo Index , highlighting what makes for the most effective sonic branding among today's top consumer brands. According to the report, US Insurance companies have taken a dominant lead with their sonic brands, with Quick Service Restaurants (QSR) taking a close second.

With a Veritonic Audio Score of 88, Farmers Insurance led the overall results with State Farm Insurance close behind at 87. QSR brands Popeyes, Arbys and Red Robin tied, with a score of 86. Digging deeper into the data, State Farm Insurance had the highest correct brand recognition with 88 percent. Additionally, 90 percent of people correctly associated Little Caesars as a QSR brand, closely followed by Popeyes, Arbys and Red Robin.

Conversely, well-known consumer brands in financial services and technology are gaining little-to-no recognition with their sonic brands. Companies like Mastercard, Slack and Microsoft Teams represent tens of millions of dollars spent in audio identity research, development and spend. According to the report, none of the respondents correctly identified the audio logos of Mastercard, Slack and Microsoft Teams - with similarly low results among their competitors.

"An all-encompassing audio marketing strategy is crucial to compete in our growing audio-focused world and the right sonic identity is a critical component," said Veritonic CEO, Scott Simonelli. "The data our platform analyzes consistently proves that brands who embrace audio marketing best practices are winning consumer's hearts and minds through the power of sound."

One key finding from the report emphasizes the importance of utilizing brand names in audio logos. 9 out of the top 10 US brand logos in the index include their company name. Emblematic of this finding was the automotive brand, AutoZone. In previous years, the retailer's proper brand association was roughly 12 percent as a result of their whistle-only audio logo. However, upon switching to a full musical slogan utilizing the company name, AutoZone jumped 62 percentage points in proper brand recognition.

Additional findings include the growing benefits of sonic branding to reinforce company values. Career site Indeed has focused much of its audio-marketing narrative on female-owned businesses and is reaping the benefits, as 60% of respondents expressed a higher willingness to use sites/products whose advertising reflected inclusivity and diversity.

"Message and tone are a big part of the equation for our sonic marketing, and we'll continue to create narratives that are relevant for reaching our audience and their needs," said Thad Smith, Global SMB Communications Senior Manager at Indeed. "Indeed has become one of the largest audio advertisers in the US and Veritonic has been instrumental in researching and testing our subtle, but impactful, creative decisions to ensure we're speaking to and for all audiences."

The Veritonic Audio Intelligence Platform analyzed over a hundred of the top consumer brand audio logos across US and UK Markets. The platform first processed the files using Machine Listening and Learning algorithms to identify trends, strengths and weaknesses. It then captured the reactions of over 3,700 individuals across the US and UK in Q1 2021. Panelists were carefully selected to reflect US and UK census-representative distributions of age, gender, ethnicity and race.

To order a copy of the 2021 Audio Logo Index, visit www.audiologoindex.com.

About Veritonic

Veritonic is the audio intelligence platform, empowering marketers to understand and quantify the most effective way to use sound. It's the first analytics platform built specifically for businesses to navigate the audio market easily and maximize the massive opportunity it presents.

From the podcast, streaming, or radio ads that drive sales, to where you stand relative to competitors, to what makes the most resonant sonic brand, Veritonic is one place to answer every critical question about marketing in audio.

Powered by "Machine Listening and Learning", the Veritonic platform scores and benchmarks audio assets quickly and comprehensively, guiding brand leaders like Visa and platforms like Pandora to make decisions that cultivate deeper relationships with customers through sound.

www.veritonic.com

SOURCE Veritonic

Related Links

https://www.veritonic.com/


NEW YORK, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Zeel, a leading technology platform providing health and wellness services to the home and office, announces that it has expanded its partnership with the City of New York to provide for in-home vaccinations to thousands of individuals across the city.

The in-home vaccination program is free to qualified individuals and their caregivers  and has now expanded to include anyone over the age of 75 and all disabled individuals, and under-vaccinated buildings. The initiative is supported entirely through the New York City Vaccine Command Center.

"We are thrilled to provide this critical service and honored to be working for our great city," said Samer Hamadeh, CEO and co-founder, Zeel. "Vaccinating our city's most vulnerable has inspired our entire team. We feel fortunate to be involved and will continue to dispatch the hard-working nurses on the Zeel platform to as many locations as possible. Our goal is to continue until every homebound, disabled, and elderly individual over the age of 75 in the city is fully vaccinated and then to return to them if a booster becomes necessary in the fall."

Zeel dispatches up to 20 teams of three -- a licensed nurse, a driver and an administrator -- to each senior's home and is capable of vaccinating up to 200 residents per day. The company expects to vaccinate up to 8,000 individuals between now and late summer. Zeel is one of several providers  which also include the Visiting Nurse Service of New York, Doral Health & Wellness and SeniorCare Emergency Medical Services  selected to work with the Vaccine Command Center for the homebound program.

Raymond Estrada, a former Captain in the FDNY and nurse on the Zeel platform, said he has been personally moved by the outpouring of gratitude, "When we arrive at their door, they feel like there's hope, a real light at the end of this terrible tunnel."

Eligible residents are encouraged to sign up for the program at www.zeel.com/vaccine or by calling 646-586-3593.

About Zeel:

Zeel is an in-home healthcare, wellness and medical testing company, providing medical services through ZP Medical Services, PC, a licensed medical practice, lab partners, and a nationwide network of health and wellness practitioners. These trusted, vetted providers offer on-location COVID-19 PCR testing, massage therapy, physical therapy, and nursing care. All services are booked safely and securely using Zeel's industry-leading, HIPAA-compliant technology and award-winning customer service team. For more information, visit www.zeel.com.

Media Contact

Beth Amorosi

917-208-7489

[email protected]

SOURCE Zeel

Related Links

http://www.zeel.com


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The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic led to the imposition of complete lockdowns across the world. This significantly affected the logistics and supply chain operations, which had directly impacted the manufacturing activities of vendors. However, the market witnessed a surge in the consumption of household cleaning products as people were forced to stay in their homes, which is increasing the market demand.

The market is expected to be driven by factors such as the growing primary and secondary housing markets, evolving buying patterns of consumers, and product innovation and portfolio extension.

The report also offers information on the upcoming trends and challenges that will influence market growth.

Download Our Free Sample Report

Household Cleaning Products Market: Opportunities

Consumers are increasingly becoming aware of health and hygiene. This coupled with growing disposable income and consumer spending is increasing the consumption of household cleaning products. Besides, the market is observing a strong growth in the middle-class population, especially in developing regions such as APAC and South America. All these factors are expected to create significant growth opportunities for vendors during the forecast period.

Household Cleaning Products Market: Segmentation by Product

Based on the segmentation by product, the market generated maximum revenue in the surface cleaners segment in 2019. The segment is driven by the increasing demand for disinfectant cleaners, multi-purpose cleaners, lavatory cleaners, and specialty cleaners. In addition, changing lifestyles of consumers will have a positive impact on the growth of the segment during the forecast period.

Household Cleaning Products Market: Segmentation by Geography

APAC held the largest market share in 2019 and the market growth in the region is expected to be faster compared to the growth of the market in other regions. The growth of the market in APAC can be attributed to rapid globalization, rising number of dual-income households, increasing awareness regarding hygiene, and changes in consumer preferences toward advanced household cleaning products. In addition, the introduction of various government initiatives that encourage hygiene and sanitation are expected to contribute to the growth of the household cleaning products market in APAC during the forecast period.

One of the fortune 500 companies had used the detailed research report on the household cleaning products market and had decided to increase their market share in the APAC region which offers the highest market opportunities during the forecast period.

Explore more about market opportunities: Enquire about the report before purchasing

Household Cleaning Products Market: Major Vendors

Church & Dwight Co. Inc.

The company offers a wide range of home care products through multiple brands, such as arm and hammer, clumpand and seal, clear balance, felinepine, KABOOM, orange GLO, scrub free, and clean shower.

Colgate-Palmolive Co.

The company offers a wide range of home care products through multiple brands such as brite, suavitel, murphy, palmolive, ajax, fleecy, pinho sol, axion, cuddly, sta-soft, soupline, and fluffy.

Henkel AG & Co. KGaA

The company offers heavy-duty and specialty detergents, laundry additives, dishwashing products, hard surface and WC cleaners, air fresheners, and insect control products.

Kao Corp.

The company offers a wide range of household cleaning products which includes cleaning products for clothes, kitchens, and general home care, fabric softeners, and paper cleaning products.

Unilever Group

The company offers fabric cleaning products, home cleaning products, and air and water purification products. The company offers a wide range of home care products through multiple brands such as cif, DAY2, domestos, OMO, surf, and sun.

Along with the market data, Technavio offers customizations as per the specific needs of companies. The following customization options are available for the household cleaning products market report:

Regional Analysis

Further breakdown of the market segmentation at requested regions.

Market Player Information

Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players, vendor segmentation, and vendor offerings.

Know the strategies adopted by vendors during the COVID-19 Recovery Phase.

Speak to our Analyst for a Customized Report

Related Reports on Household Cleaning Products Market:

Global Household Cleaning Tools and Supplies Market  Global household cleaning tools and supplies market is segmented by product (SPSS, mops and brooms, cleaning brushes, wipes, and others) and geography (APAC, Europe, MEA, North America, and South America).

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Global Industrial Cleaning Services Market  Global industrial cleaning services market is segmented by application (equipment cleaning, shop floor cleaning, public area cleaning, and window cleaning), and geography (APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and MEA).

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Global Floor Cleaning Machines Market  Global floor cleaning machines market is segmented by product (professional cleaning equipment and consumer cleaning equipment) and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and MEA).

Request a Free Sample Report

Global Contract Cleaning Services Market  Global contract cleaning services market is segmented by end-user (commercial, industrial, and residential) and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and MEA).

Request a Free Sample Report

Global Carpet Cleaning Products Market  Global carpet cleaning products market is segmented by end-user (commercial and residential), distribution channel (offline and online), and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, MEA, and South America).

Request a Free Sample Report

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Executive Summary

Market Landscape

Market ecosystem

Value chain analysis

Market Sizing

Market definition

Market segment analysis

Market size 2019

Market outlook: Forecast for 2019 - 2024

Five Forces Analysis

Five Forces Analysis

Bargaining power of buyers

Bargaining power of suppliers

Threat of new entrants

Threat of substitutes

Threat of rivalry

Market condition

Market Segmentation by Product

Market segments

Comparison by Product

Surface cleaners - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Dishwashing products - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Toilet cleaners - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Other cleaning agents (bleach) - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Market opportunity by Product

Market Segmentation by Distribution channel

Market segments

Comparison by Distribution channel

Offline - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Online - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Market opportunity by Distribution channel

Customer Landscape

Geographic Landscape

Geographic segmentation

Geographic comparison

APAC - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Europe - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

- Market size and forecast 2019-2024 North America - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

- Market size and forecast 2019-2024 MEA - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

South America - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

- Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Key leading countries

Market opportunity by geography

Market drivers

Market challenges

Market trends

Vendor Landscape

Vendor landscape

Landscape disruption

Vendor Analysis

Vendors covered

Market positioning of vendors

Church & Dwight Co. Inc.

Colgate-Palmolive Co.

Godrej Consumer Products Ltd.

Henkel AG & Co. KGaA

Kao Corp.

Reckitt Benckiser Group Plc

S. C. Johnson & Son Inc.

The Clorox Co.

The Procter & Gamble Co.

Unilever Group

Appendix

Scope of the report

Currency conversion rates for US$

Research methodology

List of abbreviations

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

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/household-cleaning-products-market-industry-analysis

SOURCE Technavio
Request a free sample report for more insights

The rising number of dual-income households and the improving per capita income of consumers, especially in emerging economies are increasing the living standards. Besides, rising awareness about smart devices among consumers is encouraging market vendors to increase their portfolios by introducing new products and expand their reach across geographies. Many such factors are expected to increase revenue in the market during the forecast period.

The market is expected to be driven by factors such as the rapid decline in the ASP of smart trackers and the emergence of rugged smart trackers.

The report also offers information on the upcoming trends and challenges that will influence market growth.

Download Our Free Sample Report

Smart Tracker Market: Opportunities

The availability of the internet and the high adoption of smartphones in emerging economies are increasing the acceptance of new gadgets and technologies among consumers. Also, rapid urbanization in developing countries is creating significant demand for electronic devices and gadgets such as Bluetooth trackers for keys, mobile phones, wallets, and pet trackers. Moreover, the increasing spend on pets in developed regions such as the US and Canada is creating significant demand for smart pet trackers. Many such factors are expected to offer several growth opportunities for market vendors during the forecast period.

Smart Tracker Market: Segmentation by Application

Based on the segmentation by application, the market generated maximum revenue in the consumer products segment in 2019. The segment is driven by the increasing application of smart trackers in consumer products such as key bundles, wallets, umbrellas, noteholders, cardholders, cameras, small electronic gadgets, and other small household items. In addition, rising awareness about smart trackers among consumers will have a positive impact on the growth of the segment during the forecast period.

Smart Tracker Market: Segmentation by Geography

North America held the largest market share in 2019 and the market growth in the region is expected to be slower compared to the growth of the market in Europe. The growth of the market in North America can be attributed to the strong presence of leading retail brands that offer smart trackers. In addition, the high adoption of technologically advanced products by consumers is contributing to the growth of the smart tracker market in North America.

One of the fortune 500 companies had used the detailed research report on the smart tracker market and had decided to increase their market share in the North American region which offers the highest market opportunities during the forecast period.

Explore more about market opportunities: Enquire about the report before purchasing

Smart Tracker Market: Major Vendors

Chipolo d.o.o.

The company offers two models of smart tracker that includes Chipolo ONE and Chipolo CARD.

Innova Technology PTE Ltd.

The company offers Bluetooth trackers for valuables and mobile phones. The models offered by the company include Protag G1, Protag Elite, and Duet.

Kaltio Technologies Oy

The company offers Bluetooth-based smart trackers that are used for tracking personal valuables, shipments, and products at construction sites.

PB Inc. dba Pebblebee

The company offers various models of wallet, phone, and other valuable trackers, including Pebblebee Finder 2.0, Pebblebee BlackCard, Pebblebee Finder, Pebblebee Honey, Pebblebee Stone, and Pebblebee BlackCard + EZGO.

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.

The company offers Smartthings Tracker that is used for tracking pets, kids, keys, and other important things.

Along with the market data, Technavio offers customizations as per the specific needs of companies. The following customization options are available for the smart tracker market report:

Regional Analysis

Further breakdown of the market segmentation at requested regions.

Market Player Information

Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players, vendor segmentation, and vendor offerings.

Know the strategies adopted by vendors during the COVID-19 Recovery Phase.

Speak to our Analyst for a Customized Report

Related Reports on Smart Tracker Market:

Global GPS Tracker Market  Global GPS tracker market is segmented by end-user (logistics and transportation, construction and mining, government, and oil and gas) and geography (Europe, APAC, North America, MEA, and South America).

Request a Free Sample Report

Global Smart Connected Cooking Appliances Market  Global smart connected cooking appliances market is segmented by distribution channel (offline and online) and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and MEA).

Request a Free Sample Report

Global Smart Shade Devices Market  Global smart shade devices market is segmented by distribution channel (retail and others), technology (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and BLE, and others), end-user (residential and commercial), and geography (North America, APAC, Europe, South America, and MEA).

Request a Free Sample Report

Global Wireless Headphones Market  Global wireless headphones market is segmented by type (in-ear wireless headphones, on-ear wireless headphones, and over-ear wireless headphones) and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and MEA).

Request a Free Sample Report

Global Industrial Wireless Control Switches Market  Global industrial wireless control switches market is segmented by product (wireless limit switches and wireless push buttons) and geography (APAC, Europe, North America, MEA, and South America).

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Executive Summary

Market Overview

Market Landscape

Market ecosystem

Value chain analysis

Market Sizing

Market definition

Market segment analysis

Market size 2019

Market outlook: Forecast for 2019 - 2024

Five Forces Analysis

Bargaining power of buyers

Bargaining power of suppliers

Threat of new entrants

Threat of substitutes

Threat of rivalry

Market condition

Market Segmentation by Application

Market segments

Comparison by Application

Consumer products - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Pets - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Luggage - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Market opportunity by Application

Market Segmentation by Technology

Market segments

Comparison by Technology

Bluetooth - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Cellular technology - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

GPS - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Market opportunity by Technology

Customer landscape

Overview

Geographic Landscape

Geographic segmentation

Geographic comparison

North America - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

- Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Europe - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

- Market size and forecast 2019-2024 APAC - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

South America - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

- Market size and forecast 2019-2024 MEA - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Key leading countries

Market opportunity by geography

Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

Market drivers

Market challenges

Market trends

Vendor Landscape

Overview

Landscape disruption

Vendor Analysis

Vendors covered

Market positioning of vendors

Chipolo d.o.o.

Innova Technology PTE Ltd.

Kaltio Technologies Oy

LugLoc

Mars Inc.

PB Inc. dba Pebblebee

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.

Smart Tracking Technologies LLC

Tile Inc.

TrackR Inc.

Appendix

Scope of the report

Currency conversion rates for US$

Research methodology

List of abbreviations

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

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/smart-tracker-market-industry-analysis

SOURCE Technavio

Related Links

http://www.technavio.com


Despite the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the market witnessed a rise in the number of luxury furniture stores. For instance, in March 2020, 2XL furniture opened its stores in Abu Dhabi. The company is also planning to launch stores in Saudi Arabia and Oman. Similarly, other vendors in the market are constantly targeting regions with high growth potential to expand their presence and increase revenue.

The market is expected to be driven by factors such as the rising demand for multi-functional luxury furniture and the emergence of eco-friendly and organic luxury furniture.

The report also offers information on the upcoming trends and challenges that will influence market growth.

Download Our Free Sample Report

Luxury Furniture Market: Opportunities

The real estate industry has witnessed significant growth in developing countries over the past few years. This subsequently increased the adoption of luxury furniture. For instance, the total housing, including luxury furniture units supplied in India reached nearly 1,94,000 in 2018. This is nearly 32% higher when compared with the number of units supplied in the country in 2017. In addition, the thriving e-commerce sector in such developing countries is creating huge growth opportunities for market vendors.

Luxury Furniture Market: Segmentation by Distribution Channel

Based on the segmentation by distribution channel, the market generated maximum revenue in the offline segment in 2019. The segment is driven by the increasing sales of luxury furniture in specialty furniture stores, department stores, discount stores, hypermarkets, supermarkets, warehouse clubs, manufacturer-branded stores, and designer stores. In addition, the proliferation of offline retail stores in both developed and developing countries will have a positive impact on the growth of the segment during the forecast period.

Luxury Furniture Market: Segmentation by Geography

Europe held the largest market share in 2019 and the market growth in the region is expected to be slower compared to the growth of the market in North America and APAC. The growth of the market in Europe can be attributed to the increasing number of single-occupancy households. Also, the rising trend of online retailing will contribute to the growth of the luxury furniture market in Europe during the forecast period.

One of the fortune 500 companies had used the detailed research report on the luxury furniture market and had decided to increase their market share in the European region which offers the highest market opportunities during the forecast period.

Explore more about market opportunities: Enquire about the report before purchasing

Luxury Furniture Market: Major Vendors

Club House Italia Spa

The company offers products such as Lancaster Sofa, Roseberry Armchair, Rugby Armchair, Sherwood Armchair, Stamford Sofa, Avebury Bed, Canterbury Bed, Stamford Bed, and Eastgate Bedside Table.

Giorgio Armani Spa

The company offers products such as Furniture, Lighting, Textiles, Home Accessories, Floral, Decorative, Special Arrangements, and Floral Boxes through its brands such as Armani Casa, Armani Dolci, Armani Fiori, Armani Hotels, Clubs, Restaurants, and Armani Silos. The company offers pholstery, Eliseo, Jingo, Nathan, Nelso, and others.

Knoll Inc.

The company offers products such as Rockwell Unscripted, Antenna Workspaces, AutoStrada, Currents, Dividends Horizon, and Reff Profiles.

Minotti Spa

The company offers Sofas, Chaise longue, Armchairs Accessories, Chairs and stools Tables, Coffee tables, Console tables, Bookcases and sideboards, Rugs Beds, Night-tables and Bedwear. Daniels, West, Lawson, Alexander, Granville, and others are some of the key products offered by the company.

Natuzzi Spa

The company offers Sofas, Sofabeds, Reclining Sofas, Armchairs, Recliners, Wall Systems and Bookcases, Coffee Tables, Desks And Consoles, Bar Cabinet, Dining Tables, Torsion Table, Chairs, Sideboards And Cupboards, Tableware, Beds, Bedside Tables, Chest Of Drawers, Mattresses, And Bed Linen.

Along with the market data, Technavio offers customizations as per the specific needs of companies. The following customization options are available for the luxury furniture market report:

Regional Analysis

Further breakdown of the market segmentation at requested regions.

Market Player Information

Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players, vendor segmentation, and vendor offerings.

Know the strategies adopted by vendors during the COVID-19 Recovery Phase.

Speak to our Analyst for a Customized Report

Related Reports on Luxury furniture Market:

Global Wooden Furniture Market  Global wooden furniture market is segmented by application (home and office) and geography (APAC, Europe, North America, South America, and MEA).

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Global Pet Furniture Market  Global pet furniture market is segmented by product (pet house, pet bed and sofa, pet tree and condo, and others), end-user (dogs, cats, and others), and geography (APAC, Europe, MEA, North America, and South America).

Request a Free Sample Report

Global Furniture Market  Global furniture market is segmented by product (home, office, and others) and geography (APAC, Europe, North America, South America, and MEA).

Request a Free Sample Report

Global Furniture Wood Coatings Market  Global furniture wood coatings market is segmented by technology (Solvent-borne, Water-borne, Radiation-cured, and Powder coating) and geography (APAC, Europe, North America, South America, and MEA).

Request a Free Sample Report

Global Ready To Assemble Furniture Market  Global ready to assemble furniture market is segmented by product (home and office), distribution channel (offline and online), and geography (APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and MEA).

Request a Free Sample Report

Subscribe to our most popular "Lite Plan" at only $ 3000 per year and avail following benefits

View 3 reports monthly!

Download 3 reports annually!

Get lifetime access to our Technavio Insights!

Executive Summary

Market Landscape

Market ecosystem

Market characteristics

Value chain analysis

Market Sizing

Market definition

Market segment analysis

Market size 2019

Market outlook: Forecast for 2019 - 2024

Five Forces Analysis

Five forces summary

Bargaining power of buyers

Bargaining power of suppliers

Threat of new entrants

Threat of substitutes

Threat of rivalry

Market condition

Market Segmentation by Application

Market segments

Comparison by Application

Residential - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Commercial - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Market opportunity by Application

Market Segmentation by Distribution channel

Market segments

Comparison by Distribution channel

Offline - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Online - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Market opportunity by Distribution channel

Customer landscape

Geographic Landscape

Geographic segmentation

Geographic comparison

Europe - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

- Market size and forecast 2019-2024 North America - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

- Market size and forecast 2019-2024 APAC - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

MEA - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

South America - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

- Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Key leading countries

Market opportunity by geography

Market drivers

Market challenges

Market trends

Vendor Landscape

Vendor landscape

Landscape disruption

Vendor Analysis

Vendors covered

Market positioning of vendors

Club House Italia Spa

Giorgio Armani Spa

Herman Miller Inc.

Knoll Inc.

Minotti Spa

MUEBLES PICO SA

Natuzzi Spa

Opera Contemporary

Reflex Spa

Rugiano Srl

Appendix

Scope of the report

Currency conversion rates for US$

Research methodology

List of abbreviations

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

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/luxury-furniture-market-size-industry-analysis

SOURCE Technavio
HOUSTON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Award-winning media and creative business firm, 9thWonder Agency, announces the promotion of Josh Okun to president. As a leading global agency driven by recognizing and celebrating diversity, Okun is eager to continue 9thWonder's unique methodology of bypassing stereotypes in order to create impactful marketing campaigns that foster conversation. He brings a modern approach to business operations and an innovative leadership style into his new role after serving as the head of global business operations since 2018.

Award-winning media and creative business firm, 9thWonder Agency, announces the promotion of Josh Okun to president.

"9thWonder has experienced tremendous growth, and we need a fearless leader to catapult us into a new dimension," said 9thWonder's CEO, Jose Lozano. "Josh has a proven track record of cultivating leadership and innovation across the firm and is well-suited for this position. I am confident 9thWonder will experience great success with him at the helm."

Okun's ability to connect the dots between brand, media, creative and digital operations have garnered recognition from the Effies, One Show, Communication Arts, The Webby's, Adobe, AIGA, OMMA and American Advertising Federation.

"The one 'award' I care about more are client results," said Okun. "We are a company focused on building strategies that capture attention and exceed the business goals of our clients. This is something I plan to continue to focus on as the new president of 9thWonder and I know we can succeed with our talented team."

9thWonder provides brand strategy, media planning, creative, research, digital strategy and development, public relations, and social media services to more than 45 clients across the globe. With a diverse network of over 130 team members in three countries. Its hyper-targeted, culturally relevant and compelling work have been recognized by industry leaders and peers alike.

For more information on 9thWonder, please visit 9thwonder.com.

About 9thWonder

9thWonder is a minority-owned independent marketing agency comprised of diverse thinkers committed to harnessing the power of difference. 9thWonder has offices spanning North America, South America and Asia, with capabilities including: brand strategy, media planning, creative, research, digital strategy and development, public relations, social media and more. With clients across a wide-range of industries, 9thWonder knows how to market to a diverse America and generate real marketplace results.

Contact:

Megan McCarl

[email protected]

SOURCE 9thWonder
PHILADELPHIA, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Aberdeen Japan Equity Fund, Inc. (the "Fund") (NYSE : JEQ) held its Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the "Meeting") on May 27, 2021. At the Meeting, shareholders of the Fund voted to elect one Class I Director and one Class III Director to the Board of Directors.

As of the record date, April 12, 2021, the Fund had outstanding 13,408,535 shares of common stock. 91.17% of outstanding common stock were voted representing a quorum.

The description of the proposal and number of shares voted at the Meeting are as follows:

To elect one Class I Director to the Board of Directors:



Votes For Votes Against Votes Abstained Radhika Ajmera 9,908,684 2,297,886 17,782

To elect one Class III Director to the Board of Directors:



Votes For Votes Against Votes Abstained P. Gerald Malone 10,215,461 1,990,854 18,037

Also effective at the shareholder meeting on May 27, 2021, Richard J. Herring retired from the Fund pursuant to the Fund's retirement policy. The Board would like to extend its sincere gratitude to Mr. Herring and acknowledge the invaluable contributions he has made to the Fund during his tenure and wish him the best of success in all his future endeavours. Effective upon the retirement of Mr. Herring, the Board appointed P. Gerald Malone to serve as a Class III director.

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 (NAV) of the fund's portfolio. There is no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective.

If you wish to receive this information electronically, please contact [email protected]

aberdeenjeq.com

SOURCE Aberdeen Japan Equity Fund, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.aberdeenjeq.com


BOSTON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Accucom is a support solutions company in the information services industry. In that capacity, Accucom maintains a number of websites that provide our customers information pertaining to the website's focus, including use of Infotracer.com, RecordsFinder.com, and StateRecords.org.

On December 16, 2020, Accucom learned that unauthorized code was deployed in our system in an attempt to capture our customers' information, including names and credit card details. Customers who used Accucom's Infotracer.com, RecordsFinder.com, or StateRecords.org websites between May 25, 2020 and December 16, 2020 may have been affected. It is important to note that only limited information about Accucom's customers was involved, such as their name, email address, and credit card details. No other financial or social security number information was involved.

After becoming aware of this data security incident, Accucom immediately investigated the matter and took appropriate measures to further improve the security of our systems and practices. This included, but was not limited to, informing the authorities, reconfiguring access controls, changing passwords, retaining national security experts, and implementing additional security protocols designed to protect our systems and our customer's personal information.

This data security incident has been reported to affected individuals as well as government regulators, including various states' attorneys general, and credit reporting agencies in compliance with applicable law.

For additional information please visit www.accucomcorp.com.

SOURCE Accucom

Related Links

http://www.accucomcorp.com


The company continues to review numerous projects that will complement its existing suite of Australian projects with a focus on acquiring mature exploration assets with large-scale potential.

Half core samples are being selected and sent to the laboratory in Mt Isa for analyses.

( ) has welcomed the completion by Red Pty Limited of diamond drilling at the Gipsy Creek Project in the copper-gold rich Cloncurry district of northwest Queensland.

.Chase Mining holds 40% of Red Fox, which carried out the three-hole diamond drilling program funded by a Queensland Government CEI grant at the project around 18 kilometres northeast of the Ernest Henry mine.

Red Fox also drilled one additional self-funded hole in the program to test a separate geophysical (chargeability) anomaly known as Romany lying 1-kilometre west of the Gipsy Creek structure.

Logging and core cutting progressing

Logging of the holes and core cutting is in progress. Half core samples are being selected and sent to the laboratory in Mt Isa for analyses.

Drilling results and analyses will be released to the market in due course.

Seeking topaz research project partner

Meantime, Chase Mining subsidiary Topfibre Pty Ltd has completed a collaborative topaz research project with the University of New South Wales, with the company deciding to seek a financial or commercial partner to progress its proof-of-concept outcomes with the best commercial application potential.

The research was co-funded through an Australian Research Council (ARC) Linkage Grant, with the aim to develop the means of fabricating single-crystal mullite fibres from topaz sourced from the large Torrington deposit in NSW that are suitable for reinforcement of metal and ceramic matrix composites.

As single-crystal mullite is the most sought-after fibrous additive but is not available commercially, CML expects to attract an immediate clientele in laboratories and companies servicing the aviation industry and the military.

Notably, a secondary commodity, which will utilise all of the fluorine by-product, is sodium silicofluoride, which is used widely in water fluoridation.
DUBLIN, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- An Independent Review Process (IRP) Panel in Afilias Domains No. 3 Limited (Afilias) v. Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), ICDR Case No. 01-18-0004-2702, has unanimously determined that ICANN violated its Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws by not acting fairly and transparently in addressing Afilias' multiple complaints about VeriSign, Inc.'s (Verisign) attempt to circumvent ICANN's rules for applying for the rights to operate the registry for .WEBoften considered the Internet generic top-level domain (gTLD) most likely to challenge Verisign's .COM/.NET monopoly. The Panel's key ruling states:

In the opinion of the Panel, [Afilias] is entitled to a declaration that [ICANN] violated its Articles and Bylaws . . . and to being designated the prevailing party in respect to the liability portion of its core claims.

ICANN's Articles and Bylaws require the organization to "carry[] out its activities in conformity with relevant principles of international law and international conventions and applicable local law and through open and transparent processes that enable competition and open entry in Internet-related markets." The Bylaws also require ICANN to "[m]ake decisions by applying documented policies consistently, neutrally, objectively, and fairly, without singling out any particular party for discriminatory treatment (i.e., making an unjustified prejudicial distinction between or among different parties)." The documented policies include ICANN's specific rules for the delegation of new gTLDs (New gTLD Program Rules), including application procedures, auction rules for deciding competing applications, and disclosure requirements.

The IRP is an international arbitration process established by ICANN's Bylaws and administered under the rules of the American Arbitration Association's International Centre for Dispute Resolution (ICDR) for the purposes of resolving disputes between ICANN and members of the global Internet community. Decisions by an IRP Panel are final and binding on ICANN.

In 2012, seven applicantsincluding Afilias (now Altanovo Domains Limited) and a shell company called Nu DotCo, LLC (NDC)applied to run the .WEB gTLD registry as part of ICANN's New gTLD Program. Verisign did not to submit an application. In July 2016, after being screened by ICANN, the seven applicants participated in an ICANN-administered auction to determine which of them would be granted the .WEB registry rights. NDC prevailed in the auction with a winning bid in excess of $135 million. NDC did not bid with its own funds, but instead with Verisign's and for Verisign's benefit.

Following the conclusion of the .WEB auction, Verisign disclosed that it had participated indirectly in the auction and had secured the rights to .WEB through NDC. Afilias immediately asked ICANN to investigate and take action. Rather than pursuing the matter formally in writing, ICANN's lawyers contacted Verisign's litigation counsel by phone, following which Verisign provided ICANN with the "Domain Acquisition Agreement" (DAA) it had concluded with NDC in 2015. Neither NDC nor Verisign had notified ICANN of the DAA when they entered into the agreement, or made any mention of it when ICANN had investigated rumors of VeriSign's possible involvement with NDC just prior the .WEB auction. Even though it was Afilias that had asked ICANN to investigate the matter, ICANN did not disclose to Afilias that it had received the DAA from Verisign, or even confirm its existence. ICANN would not do so until ordered by an ICDR arbitrator to provide the agreement to Afilias.

ICANN's lack of transparency did not end with its decision to withhold disclosure of the DAA. In November 2016, ICANN's Board received a briefing from ICANN Staff and outside counsel on the complaints raised by Afilias and others about ICANN's handling of .WEB. The Board, however, decided to defer consideration of the issue. This decision was not communicated to Afilias, and Afilias would not learn about it until June 2020, just a few weeks before the final hearing before the IRP Panel. In spite of the Board's deferral decision, and Afilias' pending complaint, beginning in early 2018, ICANN Staff commenced the process to conclude a .WEB registry agreement with NDC. This decision also was not communicated to Afilias.

In November 2018, Afilias initiated an IRP against ICANN, after learning that ICANN would be taking the final steps to complete the delegation of .WEB to NDC. Following a three-year, multi-million dollar arbitration, in which Verisign and NDCwith ICANN's facilitation and assistancewere also permitted to participate in the proceedings as amici, the IRP Panel found that ICANN breached its Articles and Bylaws in numerous ways.

The Panel noted that ICANN "adopted contradictory positions, including in these proceedings, that at least in appearance undermine the impartiality of its processes." It further found that, in investigating NDC's and Verisign's conduct, ICANN "violated [its] commitment, under the Bylaws, to operate in an open and transparent manner and consistent with procedures designed to ensure fairness." With respect to the Board's November 2016 deferral decision, the Panel found:

[T]hat it was a violation of the commitment to operate in an open and transparent manner consistent with procedures to ensure fairness, for [ICANN] to have failed to communicate the Board's decision to [Afilias]. As noted already, [ICANN] had clearly represented in its letters of 16 and 30 September 2016 that it would evaluate the issues raised in connection with NDC's application and auction bids for .WEB. Since the Board's decision to defer consideration of these issues contradicted [ICANN's] representations, it was incumbent upon [ICANN] to communicate that decision to [Afilias].

Regarding ICANN's June 2018 decision to proceed with the final delegation steps the Panel found that:

A necessary implication of [ICANN's] decision to proceed with the delegation of .WEB to NDC in June 2018 was some implicit finding that NDC was not in breach of the New gTLD Program Rules and, by way of consequence, the implicit rejection of [Afilias'] allegations of non-compliance with the Guidebook and Auction Rules.

The Panel accordingly found that ICANN had not enforced the New gTLD Program Rules objectively or fairly:

In sum, the Panel finds that it was inconsistent with the representations made to the Claimant by ICANN's Staff, and the rationale for the Board's decision in November 2016, to defer consideration of the issues raised in relation to NDC's application for .WEB, for [ICANN's] Staff, to the knowledge of [ICANN's] Board, to proceed to delegation. . . . The Panel finds that in so doing, [ICANN] has violated its commitment to make decisions by applying documented policies objectively and fairly.

John Kane, Altanovo's Vice President said "After a long, hard-fought and expensive arbitration, we have thus far prevailed. We trust that ICANN's Board will now do the right thing by evaluating what NDC and VeriSign did objectively and fairly, as the arbitrators have directed, and will disqualify NDC's application for .WEB. We will of course continue to monitor the process and take all actions necessary to protect our rights in this matter."

The Panel has remanded determination of Afilias' complaints back to ICANN's Board, noting both that ICANN has an "obligation to enforce the New gTLD Program Rules objectively and fairly" and that ICANN's eventual decision in this regard will be "subject to review by an IRP Panel."

About Altanovo Domains Limited

Altanovo Domains Limited, formerly named Afilias Domains No. 3 Limited, is an Irish limited liability corporation established in 2012 to apply for the right to run the .WEB registry. Altanovo Domains Limited is a subsidiary of Altanovo, Inc., a mobile software and registrar business incorporated in Delaware.

Additional Information about the IRP

ICANN's, Afilias', VeriSign's and NDC's written submissions in the IRP, a redacted version of the IRP Panel's decision, and redacted versions of the final evidentiary hearing transcripts can be found at: https://altanovo.com/news

Note: Several documents provided by NDC and Verisign were designated as "confidential." Accordingly, various parts of the Panel's Final Decision, the hearing transcripts, and the IRP submissions have been redacted at Verisign's and NDC's request.

Altanovo

Marketing Department

[email protected]

SOURCE Altanovo, Inc.
STOCKHOLM, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Ahlstrom-Munksjo advances further into the growth segment of electrification, launching its first product offering, totally dedicated to filtration media solutions for electric vehicles.

Today, electricity is the fastest growing source of energy and clearly the fuel of the future. With infrastructure for electric-vehicle charging rapidly expanding, double digit annual growth is expected for electric vehicles, supporting key environmental goals of reducing air pollution and addressing climate change.

It is estimated that only-electric vehicles will represent 25% of light vehicles production in 2030.

Ahlstrom-Munksjo understands the market challenges and has developed several commercial solutions to address unmet customer needs for high performance filtration materials for electric vehicles. This includes filtration solutions for cabin air, transmission and cooling systems.

"I am very pleased to introduce our initial range of products from the FiltEV platform", says Cedric Vallet, Head of Business Development, Industrial Filtration & New Vehicles. "Utilizing our extensive technological platforms already in place, the offering highlights the innovative benefits of our new portfolio for electric vehicles and demonstrates our commitment to this market. Consequently, we plan to further expand our portfolio of solutions in this field, also including fuel cell air intake, over the coming months", he adds.

"We are determined to take the necessary steps that will ensure Ahlstrom-Munksjo becomes a leading filtration supplier to the electric vehicle market", says Daniele Borlatto, Executive Vice President, Filtration & Performance Solutions business area. "The launch reinforces our commitment to electrification, now delivering filtration solutions for electric vehicles, alongside our FortiCell platform, of fiber-based solutions for energy storage".

The addressable annual market opportunity for filtration media used in electric vehicles is expected to grow at around 35% per year up until 2030, reaching approximately EUR 100 million.

Please visit www.ahlstrom-munksjo.com/filtev-battery-electric-vehicles or contact [email protected]

For further information, please contact:

Cedric Vallet, Head of Business Development, Industrial Filtration & New Vehicles, tel. +33 674 405 004, [email protected]

Johan Lindh, Vice President, Group Communications and Investor Relations, +358 10 888 4994, [email protected]

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/ahlstrom-munksjo/r/ahlstrom-munksjo-launches-filtev--its-new--comprehensive-platform-of-high-performance-filtration-mat,c3354790

SOURCE Ahlstrom-Munksjo
"Our guests are eager for more eco-friendly leisure destinations, especially as they get vaccinated, and we're ready to offer them terrific options," said Brett Catlin, vice president of network and alliances for Alaska Airlines. "Belize offers an unbeatable mix of sensational beaches, iconic cayes and rich heritage."

Start Date End Date City Pair Departs Arrives Frequency Aircraft Nov. 19 May 23 LAX  BZE 11 a.m. 5:30 p.m. M, W, F, Sa 737-800 Nov. 20 May 24 BZE  LAX 10 a.m. 1:30 p.m. T, Th, Sa, Su 737-800 Nov. 19 May 21 SEA  BZE 8:30 a.m. 4:35 p.m. F, Sa 737-800 Nov. 20 May 22 BZE  SEA 11 a.m. 3:55 p.m. Sa, Su 737-800

Flight times based on local times

"Increased commercial air service is imperative to the success of Belize's tourism, and with these new West Coast connections, we are able to offer convenience and more availability to our guests looking for a unique getaway," said Belize's Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations, Hon. Anthony Mahler. "Alaska Airlines remains an important partner in accommodating the increased demand for service to our world-class destination  facilitating travel to Belize so that visitors can enjoy our tropical climate year-round, lush rainforests, mystical Mayan sites and celebrated authentic culture and cuisine."

Belize will be the fourth country Alaska flies to from its West Coast hubs, joining Canada, Mexico and Costa Rica. Learn more about the incredible possibilities Belize has to offer on the Alaska Airlines Blog. For the latest on travel health and safety, the Belize Tourism Board has outlined the essential information travelers need to know.

International guests arriving in the U.S. can streamline their required COVID-19 documents using VeriFLY. The free and secure third-party app offers fliers expedited check-in and verification for their arrival to the U.S. to help provide confidence that they meet the entry requirements.

As flyers begin traveling again, Alaska remains committed to Next-Level Care for its guests and employees  from clean planes to clean air in the cabin (with hospital-grade air filtration systems). Alaska also continues to enforce the federally mandated mask policy even for those who are fully vaccinated.

Alaska is a member of the oneworld global alliance. With oneworld and Alaska's additional airline partners, guests can fly to as many as 1,000 destinations around the world. Flyers can also earn and redeem miles with the airline's highly-acclaimed Mileage Plan program.

About Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines and its regional partners serve more than 120 destinations across the United States and to Mexico, Canada and Costa Rica. The airline emphasizes Next-Level Care for its guests, along with providing low fares, award-winning customer service and sustainability efforts. On March 31, 2021, Alaska became the 14th member of oneworld. With the global alliance and Alaska Airlines' additional partners, guests can travel to more than 1,000 destinations on more than 20 airlines while earning and redeeming miles on flights to locations around the world. Learn more about Alaska at newsroom.alaskaair.com and blog.alaskaair.com . Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air are subsidiaries of Alaska Air Group (NYSE: ALK).

SOURCE Alaska Airlines

Related Links

http://www.alaskaair.com


With regard to the bold design of this keyboard, Angry Miao founder Li Nan mentioned in an interview that "A good design is impossible without considering the cultural context behind the product. High-end fashion brands often inspire design trends within the consumer electronics industry. By paying homage to Saint Laurent and Hedi Slimane, we hope to take a leading role in moving the consumer electronics industry forward when it comes to design trends."

Matte and glossy design, a salute to Le Smoking by Hedi Slimane

CYBERBOARD R2 is inspired by the classic Saint Laurent Le Smoking suit, symbolizing the independent spirit of women. In the era of Hedi Silmane, with his signature slim cut, metal chain and Chelsea boots, Le Smoking gained popularity among men once again. The cool all-black design, with its contrast between matte and glossy materials, presents abundant texture and details, presenting a rebellious rock & roll spirit.

CYBERBOARD Le Smoking comes in three matte and glossy color combinations: Jet Black, Psychedelic and Meteor Grey. All three evoke a tough, psychedelic look. The aluminum ingot frame on the front of the keyboard is formed through CNC machining, sandblasting, and several other complex polishing processes. Finally coated by a PVD vacuum furnace (the Meteor Grey variant is anodized), and a bright and shiny mirror-like surface is the end result.

On the sides, a precise, layered matte spraying process is used to create an advanced yet low-key matte texture, perfectly contrasting with the front. This combination of glossy and matte is a true homage to Le Smoking's cross-generational design and appeal.

CYBERBOARD Le Smoking's shiny matte surface is made of 100% aluminum alloy; a world-first in the computer electronics industry. Sandblasting and mirror polishing is used to ensure the feel and uniformity of the matte surface. Achieving a bright mirror-like effect is a true test for any part of the production process. With current manufacturing limitations, it is not yet 100% perfect. Therefore, there may still be small defects such as small white spots and minor color differences on the bottom of the shell. The all-new PVD direct plating process brings an unprecedented shiny mirror experience, but at the same time also may bring some subtle issues that might slightly affect the overall experience.

Gasket Mount: a transcendental feel and sound

In addition to its incredible color design, CYBERBOARD Le Smoking's Gasket Mount is another true highlight. The upgraded Gasket Mount gives a better sound and feel to CYBERBOARD. It makes typing a graceful duet between you and your keyboard.

The new positioning plate has also been optimized and improved in several ways. Together with the hollowed out leaf spring-like structure, we have reduced the resonance and improved the spring action; making for a satisfying sound and resulting in a wondrous typing experience.

Le Smoking allows you to choose between four different plate materials, including Black Aluminum Plate (default), Psychedelic PVD Brass, Golden Black FR-4, and 1.5mm Translucent PC. Multiple choices for OGs like yourself.

DIY fun with new lighting effects

Besides brand-new design and upgraded gasket, the DIY lighting effects have also been significantly upgraded.

Le Smoking's LED effect slots have jumped from one to three, providing you with greater creative flexibility. In addition, an in-switch lighting function has been added. Newly upgraded RGB hardware and 256-level DC dimming allows for a higher refresh rate and stronger color reproduction, giving you more DIY fun with every tap.

This upgrade removes the physical dual-mode switch and instead implements seamless switching between Bluetooth and wireless modes. For European users, a soldering PCB is also available as an additional option, providing greater versatility for users using an ISO layout.

Even more surprises: all-new keycaps and cyan-colored CYBERCOIN

In addition to the CYBERBOARD Le Smoking, Angry Miao is also launching the all-new Angry Miao 021C keycap set, Time Machine artisan keycap, The Chimney Cat artisan keycap (AFS) and a cyan-colored CYBERCOIN. These new accessories give users even more choices to match their setup perfectly.

About Angry Miao

Established in 2019, Angry Miao is committed to bringing future technology to consumers through close community interaction, while at the same time providing advanced futuristic product designs. This towards building the so-called: Future Art Community.

Products include TWS and revolutionary wireless desktop products, as well as IP-centric products, in order to enhance the emotional brand connection.

Angry Miao founder Li Nan believes that through the Community Driven and D2C sales model, Angry Miao is capable of creating a high-end and trendy technology brand widely recognized by global consumers.

SOURCE Angry Miao

Related Links

www.angrymiao.com


NEW YORK and BASEL, Switzerland, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Aruvant Sciences ("Aruvant"), a private company focused on developing gene therapies for rare diseases, today announced that data on ARU-1801, a potentially curative lentiviral gene therapy for sickle cell disease (SCD), will be delivered in an oral presentation at the 15th Annual Sickle Cell Disease Research & Educational Symposium & 44th National Sickle Cell Disease Scientific Meeting. Dr. Monika Asnani, professor of family medicine & epidemiology at the Caribbean Institute for Health Research, will present data from the ARU-1801 Phase 1/2 MOMENTUM clinical trial during the meeting which will take place virtually from May 27 to May 30, 2021.

ARU-1801 is a lentiviral gene therapy that is administered once and designed to address the limitations of current curative treatment options, such as low donor availability and toxicity from conditioning chemotherapy. Dr. Asnani's oral presentation will review early safety and efficacy results from the first three patients in the ongoing MOMENTUM study of ARU-1801 with reduced intensity conditioning (RIC) in patients with SCD.

"Dr. Asnani will be presenting preliminary data that shows the promise of ARU-1801 as a potentially curative gene therapy that can be delivered without exposing patients to high intensity chemotherapy," said Will Chou, M.D., chief executive officer of Aruvant. "Long-term results from the first two patients showed between 85 and 93 percent reduction in the number of vaso-occlusive events (VOEs) and complete resolution of VOEs at 12 months for the third patient, the first participant treated with a newer manufacturing process used to improve efficacy. These results indicate that it may be possible to successfully treat individuals with SCD using only reduced intensity conditioning with ARU-1801."

Treatment with ARU-1801 has shown meaningful improvement in clinical outcomes. In the 24 months before treatment with ARU-1801, patients had 12 to 41 VOEs and were hospitalized for one to seven of those VOEs. In the 24 months after treatment, patients one and two have seen 93% and 85% reductions in the number of VOEs, respectively and patient three has had no VOEs through 12 months of follow-up, a 100% reduction. The corresponding total days in hospital associated with those VOEs had an average reduction of 93.8 percent. These results are an encouraging sign of the therapeutic benefit of ARU-1801 with RIC for patients with SCD.

Presentation Information

Presentation Title: Early Results from a Phase 1/2 Study of ARU-1801 Gene Therapy for Sickle Cell Disease

Session: Abstract Breakout Session I Clinical Research Oral Presentations

Date: Sunday, May 30, 2021

Time: 11:00 a.m. EDT

Abstract: The agenda and abstract can be found here.

About ARU-1801

ARU-1801 is designed to address the limitations of current curative treatment options, such as low donor availability and the risk of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) seen with allogeneic stem cell transplants. Unlike investigational gene therapies and gene editing approaches which require fully myeloablative conditioning, the unique characteristics of ARU-1801 allow it to be given with RIC. Compared to myeloablative approaches, the lower dose chemotherapy regimen underlying RIC has the potential to reduce not only hospital length of stay, but also the risk of short- and long-term adverse events such as infection and infertility. Preliminary clinical data from the MOMENTUM study, an ongoing Phase 1/2 trial of ARU-1801 in patients with severe sickle cell disease, demonstrate continuing durable reductions in disease burden.

The MOMENTUM Study

Aruvant is conducting the MOMENTUM study, which is evaluating ARU-1801, a one-time potentially curative investigational gene therapy for patients with SCD. This Phase 1/2 study is currently enrolling participants, and information may be found at momentumtrials.com which includes a patient brochure, an eligibility questionnaire and information for healthcare providers.

About Aruvant Sciences

Aruvant Sciences, part of the Roivant family of companies, is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing gene therapies for the treatment of rare diseases. The company has a talented team with extensive experience in the development, manufacturing and commercialization of gene therapy products. Aruvant has an active research program with a lead product candidate, ARU-1801, in development for individuals suffering from SCD. ARU-1801, an investigational lentiviral gene therapy, is being studied in a Phase 1/2 clinical trial, the MOMENTUM study, as a one-time potentially curative treatment for SCD. Preliminary clinical data demonstrate engraftment of ARU-1801 and amelioration of SCD is possible with one dose of reduced intensity chemotherapy. The company's second product candidate, ARU-2801, is in development to cure a devastating, ultra-orphan disorder that affects multiple organ systems and leads to high mortality when not treated. Data from pre-clinical studies with ARU-2801 shows durable improvement in disease biomarkers and increased survival. For more information on the ongoing ARU-1801 clinical study, please visit www.momentumtrials.com and for more on the company, please visit www.aruvant.com. Follow Aruvant on Facebook, Twitter @AruvantSciences and on Instagram @Aruvant_Sciences.

About Roivant

Roivant's mission is to improve the delivery of healthcare to patients by treating every inefficiency as an opportunity. Roivant develops transformative medicines faster by building technologies and developing talent in creative ways, leveraging the Roivant platform to launch Vants  nimble and focused biopharmaceutical and health technology companies. For more information, please visit www.roivant.com.

SOURCE Aruvant Sciences

Related Links

https://www.aruvant.com


BARCELONA, Spain, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Asiacell, once again, assumes its prominent leading role in the telecommunications sector in Iraq by being shortlisted for the Global Mobile Awards (GLOMOs) in the 'Technology for Good' category, presented by the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA at Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain. Asiacell's inauguration of the first telemedical centre for the internally displaced populations (IDPs) of Iraq earned the company the nomination for the 2021 GLOMO Awards, most likely placing it amongst the most illustrious names in the technology industry to ever receive such an elite award.

Asiacell's shortlisting for the award came just months after its recent 4G LTE services launch for its innovative initiative at the Bardarash refugee camp in the Kurdistan region north of the country. The Bardarash Digital Tele-Medical Centre, established by Asiacell, is a brand-new initiative found in the province of Duhok for the purposes of providing medical treatment, relief, aid, and health guidance to those who have fled their homes due to escalating violence in some parts of Iraq. This centre possesses highly advanced scientific and medical equipment while utilising Asiacell's fast-paced internet to provide maximum speed and the broadest coverage for its services, including free online medical consultation, educational facilities, free internet cafe, and other specialised settlement services.

This Digital Tele-Medical Centre's creation links the refugees of the Bardarash camp to the most advanced medical facility in Iraq, Faruk Medical City, which is located approximately 275 km from the camp. The camp residents can have online meetings with the adept doctors from Faruk Medical City to diagnose their diseases. Furthermore, the doctors can easily contact the medical centre and give instructions on what medicine to prescribe, what type of equipment to use for treatment, and determine the timeline of the patient's therapy.

As giving back to its community has been playing a pivotal part in Asiacell's social responsibility strategy, Asiacell always strives to remain Iraq's leading responsible corporate citizen by implementing sustainable, effective, and innovative projects that support key actors of change, create positive social impact and advocate for unity, integrity, and inclusion. It is serving Iraqi communities in a multitude of aspects by integrating its creative digital and technological capabilities in its operations, which have always been the staple of Asiacell's core values.

The GLOMO Awards is an annual event that celebrates and recognises the most innovative, trendsetting, and effective mobile and digital products, services, and initiatives worldwide. Live from Spain, the winners of the GLOMO Awards will be announced in a streamed Virtual Event at 12  1 pm (CET) Wednesday, June 30th, 2021.

About Asiacell

Asiacell "Brings Us Together" is the leading mobile telecommunications and digital services provider in Iraq, exceeding a subscriber base of 14.7 million satisfied customers as of January 1st, 2021. Asiacell is recognised as the first mobile carrier to operate in Iraq and the first to achieve full nationwide coverage, offering quality 4G services across all Iraqi governorates. Asiacell's network covers 99.06% of the Iraqi population, making its national network the most extensive among the other two mobile operators in Iraq. Since January 2015, Asiacell is proud to be the best internet service provider offering the highest quality network in Iraq.

Learn more at www.asiacell.com

SOURCE Asiacell Communications PJSC
ORANGE PARK, Fla., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Twelve departments of transportation (DOTs) were named winners of the 2020 Perpetual Pavement Award (PPA) by the Asphalt Pavement Alliance (APA). The award celebrates long-life asphalt pavements that reflect the characteristics of a Perpetual Pavement design.

The award is presented to road owners for high-performing asphalt pavements that are at least 35 years old with proven structural design, have not suffered a structural failure, and have an average interval between resurfacing of no less than 13 years. The pavement must demonstrate the characteristics expected from long-life, Perpetual Pavement design: excellence in design, quality in construction, and value to taxpayers.

Engineers at the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) at Auburn University evaluated and validated the results for the 12 Perpetual Pavement Award winners for 2020. Since the PPA was first presented in 2001, 156 pavements in 31 U.S. states and one Canadian province have been honored with the award.

The 2020 winners are:

Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), North Region for a 2-mile section lane on US 411 (SR 25) in Etowah County. Original construction was completed in 1979. This is the 12 th PPA for ALDOT.

for a 2-mile section lane on US 411 (SR 25) in Etowah County. Original construction was completed in 1979. This is the 12 PPA for ALDOT. Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) for a 2.46-mile segment on I-40 in Mohave County originally opened to traffic in 1976. This is ADOT's second PPA.

for a 2.46-mile segment on I-40 in Mohave County originally opened to traffic in 1976. This is ADOT's second PPA. Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) for a 2.85-mile section of two-lane SH 1 in Craighead County. This roadway is more than 44 years old and marks ARDOT's 11 th PPA.

for a 2.85-mile section of two-lane SH 1 in Craighead County. This roadway is more than 44 years old and marks ARDOT's 11 PPA. Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) for a 3.012-mile section of SR 40 in Marion County , originally constructed in 1954. This is FDOT's 11 th PPA.

for a 3.012-mile section of SR 40 in , originally constructed in 1954. This is FDOT's 11 PPA. Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) State Highway Administration for a 66-year-old, 8.89-mile section of four-lane I-270 NB in Frederick County. MDOT has earned six PPAs.

for a 66-year-old, 8.89-mile section of four-lane I-270 NB in Frederick County. MDOT has earned six PPAs. Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) for a 5.8-mile section MS 63 in Jackson County . Original construction was completed in 1977. This is MDOT's fifth PPA.

for a 5.8-mile section MS 63 in . Original construction was completed in 1977. This is MDOT's fifth PPA. Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) District 2 for a 3.66-mile section of SR 199 in Wood County. At 91years old, this is the oldest roadway at the time of recognition to earn a PPA. This is ODOT's fifth PPA.

for a 3.66-mile section of SR 199 in Wood County. At 91years old, this is the oldest roadway at the time of recognition to earn a PPA. This is ODOT's fifth PPA. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Engineering District 9-0 for a 10.16-mile section of SR 96 in Bedford County, originally constructed in 1958. PennDOT has earned 10 PPAs.

for a 10.16-mile section of SR 96 in Bedford County, originally constructed in 1958. PennDOT has earned 10 PPAs. South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) for a 6-mile section of I-26 in Berkeley County. This roadway is more than 58 years old. SCDOT has earned nine PPAs.

for a 6-mile section of I-26 in Berkeley County. This roadway is more than 58 years old. SCDOT has earned nine PPAs. Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) for a 2.93-mile section of SR 72 in Loudon County. Original construction was completed in 1962. This is TDOT's 16 th PPA.

for a 2.93-mile section of SR 72 in Loudon County. Original construction was completed in 1962. This is TDOT's 16 PPA. Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) for a 2.51-mile section of I-81 SB in Roanoke County, originally opened to traffic in 1964. This is VDOT's second PPA.

for a 2.51-mile section of I-81 SB in Roanoke County, originally opened to traffic in 1964. This is VDOT's second PPA. Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) for a 6.9-mile section of SR 395 in Franklin County , which is more than 40 years old. WSDOT has earned seven PPAs.

"The average road life of the 2020 PPAs is more than 53 years," said Amy Miller, P.E., National Director of the APA. "Long-life asphalt pavements serve the community, reduce maintenance costs, and conserve raw materials. Asphalt roads can be engineered to last indefinitely with only routine maintenance and periodic surface renewal. Perpetual pavements offer road owners and users what they want most  an economical, smooth pavement that serves the community indefinitely."

Contact:

Amy Miller

[email protected]

SOURCE Asphalt Pavement Alliance
BEIJING, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Autohome Inc. (NYSE: ATHM; HKEX: 2518) ("Autohome" or the "Company"), the leading online destination for automobile consumers in China, today announced its unaudited financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2021.

First Quarter 2021 Highlights [1]

Net Revenues in the first quarter of 2021 were RMB1,841.6 million ( $281.1 million ), an increase of 19.1% year-over-year.

in the first quarter of 2021 were ( ), an increase of 19.1% year-over-year. Online Marketplace and Others Revenues in the first quarter of 2021 were RMB539.1 million ( $82.3 million ), an increase of 74.0% year-over-year. Data Products achieved revenue growth of 64.9% year-over-year in the first quarter of 2021. Revenue contribution from TTP Car, Inc. (TTP) [2] in the first quarter of 2021 was higher than the Company's prior expectation.

in the first quarter of 2021 were ( ), an increase of 74.0% year-over-year. achieved revenue growth of 64.9% year-over-year in the first quarter of 2021. Revenue contribution from (TTP) in the first quarter of 2021 was higher than the Company's prior expectation. Net Income attributable to Autohome Inc. in the first quarter of 2021 was RMB633.8 million ( $96.7 million ), compared to RMB587.2 million for the corresponding period of 2020.

in the first quarter of 2021 was ( ), compared to for the corresponding period of 2020. Adjusted Net Income attributable to Autohome Inc. (Non-GAAP)[3] in the first quarter of 2021 was RMB734.9 million ( $112.2 million ), compared to RMB646.2 million for the corresponding period of 2020.

[1] The reporting currency of the Company is Renminbi ("RMB"). For the convenience of readers, certain amounts throughout the release are presented in US dollars ("$"). Unless otherwise noted, all conversions from RMB to US$ are translated at the noon buying rate of US$1.00 to RMB6.5518 on March 31, 2021 in the City of New York for cable transfers of RMB as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. No representation is made that the RMB amounts could have been, or could be, converted into US$ at such rate. [2] TTP Car, Inc., or TTP, a company operating an online bidding platform for used automobiles. Starting the first quarter of 2021, the Company consolidated TTP's operating results. In the statements of operations, TTP's revenue is recorded as "online marketplace and others". In April 2021, the Company completed the second closing of its investment in TTP, in exchange for an additional 4.17% preferred shares of TTP involving a value of US$25 million. After the second closing, the Company holds investments in TTP both in forms of convertible bonds and preferred shares, representing in aggregate 51.00% of TTP's equity interest on as-converted basis. [3] Adjusted net income attributable to Autohome Inc. (Non-GAAP) is defined as net income attributable to Autohome Inc., excluding share-based compensation expenses, amortization expenses of intangible assets related to acquisitions, certain noncontrolling interests adjustments for TTP (which for the first time starting in Q1 of 2021 included interest income related to convertible bond investment to TTP, which is eliminated in consolidation), and accretion of convertible redeemable noncontrolling interests to redemption value. For more information on this and other non-GAAP financial measures, please see the section captioned "Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" and the tables captioned "Reconciliations of Non-GAAP and GAAP Results" set forth at the end of this release.

Mr. Quan Long, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of Autohome, stated, "We are very pleased with our achievements in the first quarter with total revenues increasing 19.1% year-over-year, driven by our resilient core business and robust new initiatives. During the quarter, we deepened our cooperation with new energy vehicle ("NEV") automakers in order to capture more growth opportunities. We also upgraded our main App with a more streamlined interface and cleaner functionality, further enhancing our user experience and with younger demographics in mind."

Mr. Long added, "We're witnessing that changes are coming to the automotive industry. In the face of a challenging macro environment and fluctuation in automobile sales stemming from the pandemic, the auto industry has started to step up efforts towards a digital transformation. Emerging premium electric vehicle brands and the traditional auto manufacturers' investments in new energy vehicles have also accelerated the growth in the NEV space. In addition, some new players with extensive expertise in internet services are tapping into the smart automobile market, intensifying the competition in this field. All these trends are reshaping the automotive market landscape, including the overall industry value chain. Against the backdrop of this new market and industry dynamic, last year, we rolled out our 4.0 strategies, namely AI, Big data and Cloud capability, and SaaS strategies. Now, we are also planning an upgrade of these strategies by finetuning our action plans to the execution, as we seek to better capture industry opportunities and achieve continued high-quality developments. We expect to announce updates on these action plans in the second half of the year. As a platform with a massive and engaged user base of more than 40 million daily active users, solid business fundamentals, industry-leading innovative capability, as well as effective and strong execution capabilities, we are confident that Autohome can grow beyond its current standing and tap into new growth potentials."

Mr. Jun Zou, Chief Financial Officer of Autohome, added, "We kicked off the year with a solid first quarter. Our data products continued on its strong growth trajectory while TTP delivered a larger-than-expected contribution to our topline. These achievements reflect Autohome's leading position in these key areas. An additional notable milestone for us during the quarter was Autohome's successful listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in mid-March. Besides, Autohome's Hong Kong-listed stock will be added to Hang Seng TECH Index and Hang Seng Composite Index, opening a new journey for Autohome. In the past few years, Autohome has been leading the development of the industry. As we move ahead, with our strong balance sheet and profitability, we're confident that Autohome will bring more value to both our users and customers and deliver long-term return to our shareholders"

Unaudited First Quarter 2021 Financial Results

Net Revenues

Net revenues in the first quarter of 2021 were RMB1,841.6 million ($281.1 million), compared to RMB1,546.6 million in the corresponding period of 2020.

Media services revenues were RMB604.8 million ( $92.3 million ), compared to RMB566.3 million in the corresponding period of 2020.

revenues were ( ), compared to in the corresponding period of 2020. Leads generation services revenues were RMB697.6 million ( $106.5 million ), compared to RMB670.5 million in the corresponding period of 2020.

revenues were ( ), compared to in the corresponding period of 2020. Online marketplace and others revenues increased by 74.0% year-over-year to RMB539.1 million ( $82.3 million ) from RMB309.9 million in the corresponding period of 2020. The increase was primarily attributable to the consolidation of TTP, and the increased contribution from data products.

Cost of Revenues

Cost of revenues was RMB243.1 million ($37.1 million) in the first quarter of 2021, compared to RMB177.9 million in the corresponding period of 2020. The increase was primarily attributable to the impact of consolidation of TTP. In addition, cost of revenues included share-based compensation expenses of RMB6.8 million ($1.0 million) during the first quarter of 2021, compared to RMB5.1 million in the corresponding period of 2020.

Operating Expenses

Operating expenses were RMB1,115.8 million ($170.3 million) in the first quarter of 2021, compared to RMB905.3 million in the corresponding period of 2020.

Sales and marketing expenses were RMB682.6 million ( $104.2 million ) in the first quarter of 2021, compared to RMB524.2 million in the corresponding period of 2020. The increase was primarily attributable to the impact of consolidation of TTP, increased execution expenses to support automakers and dealers and business development. Sales and marketing expenses for the first quarter of 2021 included share-based compensation expenses of RMB11.1 million ( $1.7 million ), compared to RMB11.0 million in the corresponding period of 2020.

expenses were ( ) in the first quarter of 2021, compared to in the corresponding period of 2020. The increase was primarily attributable to the impact of consolidation of TTP, increased execution expenses to support automakers and dealers and business development. Sales and marketing expenses for the first quarter of 2021 included share-based compensation expenses of ( ), compared to in the corresponding period of 2020. General and administrative expenses were RMB128.6 million ( $19.6 million ) in the first quarter of 2021, compared to RMB89.2 million in the corresponding period of 2020. The increase was primarily attributable to the impact of consolidation of TTP. General and administrative expenses for the first quarter of 2021 included share-based compensation expenses of RMB7.6 million ( $1.2 million ), compared to RMB18.9 million in the corresponding period of 2020.

expenses were ( ) in the first quarter of 2021, compared to in the corresponding period of 2020. The increase was primarily attributable to the impact of consolidation of TTP. General and administrative expenses for the first quarter of 2021 included share-based compensation expenses of ( ), compared to in the corresponding period of 2020. Product development expenses were RMB304.6 million ( $46.5 million ) in the first quarter of 2021, compared to RMB291.9 million in the corresponding period of 2020. The increase was primarily attributable to higher investment in research and development activities. Product development expenses for the first quarter of 2021 included share-based compensation expenses of RMB28.3 million ( $4.3 million ), compared to RMB22.9 million in the corresponding period of 2020.

Operating Profit

Operating profit was RMB566.6 million ($86.5 million) in the first quarter of 2021, compared to RMB585.9 million in the corresponding period of 2020.

Income Tax Expense

There was an income tax expense of RMB65.0 million ($9.9 million) in the first quarter of 2021, compared to income tax expense of RMB125.5 million in the corresponding period of 2020.

Net Income attributable to Autohome Inc. and Earnings per Share/ADS

Net income attributable to Autohome Inc. was RMB633.8 million ($96.7 million) in the first quarter of 2021, compared to RMB587.2 million in the corresponding period of 2020. Basic and diluted earnings per share("EPS") were RMB1.31 ($0.20) and RMB1.31 ($0.20), respectively, as compared to basic and diluted EPS of RMB1.23 and RMB1.23, respectively, in the corresponding period of 2020. Basic and diluted earnings per ADS were RMB5.24 ($0.80) and RMB5.22 ($0.80), respectively, as compared to basic and diluted earnings per ADS of RMB4.93 and RMB4.91, respectively, in the corresponding period of 2020.

Adjusted Net Income attributable to Autohome Inc. (Non-GAAP) and Non-GAAP EPS/ADS

Adjusted net income attributable to Autohome Inc. (Non-GAAP), defined as net income attributable to Autohome Inc., excluding share-based compensation expenses, amortization expenses of intangible assets related to acquisitions, certain noncontrolling interests adjustments for TTP (which for the first time starting in Q1 of 2021 included interest income related to convertible bond investment to TTP, which is eliminated in consolidation) and accretion of convertible redeemable noncontrolling interests to redemption value, was RMB734.9 million ($112.2 million) in the first quarter of 2021, compared to RMB646.2 million in the corresponding period of 2020. Non-GAAP basic and diluted EPS were RMB1.52 ($0.23) and RMB1.52 ($0.23), respectively, compared to non-GAAP basic and diluted EPS of RMB1.36 and RMB1.35, respectively, in the corresponding period of 2020. Non-GAAP basic and diluted earnings per ADS were RMB6.08 ($0.93) and RMB6.06 ($0.92), respectively, compared to non-GAAP basic and diluted EPS of RMB5.43 and RMB5.40, respectively, in the corresponding period of 2020.

Balance Sheet and Cash Flow

As of March 31, 2021, the Company had cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments of RMB17.27 billion ($2,636.0 million). Net cash provided by operating activities in the first quarter of 2021 was RMB546.2 million ($83.4 million).

Employees

The Company had 6,152 employees as of March 31, 2021, including 2,352 employees from TTP.

Hong Kong Listing

On March 15, 2021, the Company successfully listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange with the stock code "2518", with a global offering of 24,738,400 new ordinary shares (including 4,544,000 ordinary shares issued on April 13, 2021 pursuant to the full exercise of the over-allotment option). Gross proceeds from the global offering, before deducting underwriting fees and other offering expenses, were approximately HK$4,361.4 million.

Conference Call Information

The Company will host an earnings conference call at 8:00 AM U.S. Eastern Time on Thursday, May 27, 2021 (8:00 PM Beijing Time on the same day).

Dial-in details for the earnings conference call are as follows:

United States: +1-855-824-5644 Hong Kong, China: +852-3027-6500 Mainland China: 8009-880-563/ 400-821-0637 United Kingdom: 0800-026-1542 International: +1-646-722-4977 Passcode: 13631575#

Please dial in ten minutes before the call is scheduled to begin and provide the passcode to join the call.

A replay of the conference call may be accessed by phone at the following numbers until June 2, 2021:

United States: +1-646-982-0473 International: +61-2-8325-2405 Passcode: 319340290#

Additionally, a live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available at http://ir.autohome.com.cn.

About Autohome Inc.

Autohome Inc. (NYSE: ATHM; HKEX: 2518) is the leading online destination for automobile consumers in China. Its mission is to engage, educate and inform consumers about everything auto. Autohome provides original generated content, professionally generated content, user-generated content, and AI-generated content, a comprehensive automobile library, and extensive automobile listing information to automobile consumers, covering the entire car purchase and ownership cycle. The ability to reach a large and engaged user base of automobile consumers has made Autohome a preferred platform for automakers and dealers to conduct their advertising campaigns. Further, the Company's dealer subscription and advertising services allow dealers to market their inventory and services through Autohome's platform, extending the reach of their physical showrooms to potentially millions of internet users in China and generating sales leads for them. The Company offers sales leads, data analysis, and marketing services to assist automakers and dealers with improving their efficiency and facilitating transactions. Autohome operates its "Autohome Mall," a full-service online transaction platform, to facilitate transactions for automakers and dealers. Further, through its websites and mobile applications, it also provides other value-added services, including auto financing, auto insurance, used car transactions, and aftermarket services. For further information, please visit www.autohome.com.cn.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking" statements pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will", "expects", "anticipates", "future", "intends", "plans", "believes", "estimates" and similar statements. Among other things, Autohome's business outlook, Autohome's strategic and operational plans and quotations from management in this announcement contain forward-looking statements. Autohome may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), in announcements made on the website of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the "Hong Kong Stock Exchange"), in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about Autohome's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Autohome's goals and strategies; Autohome's future business development, results of operations and financial condition; the expected growth of the online automobile advertising market in China; Autohome's ability to attract and retain users and advertisers and further enhance its brand recognition; Autohome's expectations regarding demand for and market acceptance of its products and services; competition in the online automobile advertising industry; fluctuations in general economic and business conditions in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in Autohome's filings with the SEC and announcements on the website of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and Autohome does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

To supplement net income presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP, we use Adjusted Net Income attributable to Autohome Inc., Non-GAAP basic and diluted EPS and per ADS and Adjusted EBITDA as non-GAAP financial measures. We define Adjusted Net Income attributable to Autohome Inc. as net income attributable to Autohome Inc. excluding share-based compensation expenses, amortization expenses of intangible assets related to acquisitions, certain noncontrolling interests adjustments for TTP (which for the first time starting in Q1 of 2021 included interest income related to convertible bond investment to TTP, which is eliminated in consolidation) and accretion of convertible redeemable noncontrolling interests to redemption value. We define Non-GAAP basic and diluted EPS as Adjusted Net Income attributable to Autohome Inc. divided by the basic and diluted weighted average number of ordinary shares. We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income attributable to Autohome Inc. before income tax expense, depreciation expenses of property and equipment, amortization expenses of intangible assets, share-based compensation expenses and accretion of convertible redeemable noncontrolling interests to redemption value. We present these non-GAAP financial measures because they are used by our management to evaluate our operating performance, in addition to net income prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. We believe these non-GAAP financial measures are important to help investors understand our operating and financial performance, compare business trends among different reporting periods on a consistent basis and assess our core operating results, as they exclude certain expenses that are not expected to result in cash payments. The use of the above non-GAAP financial measures has certain limitations. Share-based compensation expenses have been and will continue to be incurred in the future and are not reflected in the presentation of the non-GAAP financial measures, but should be considered in the overall evaluation of our results. These non-GAAP financial measures should be considered in addition to financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, but should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. For more information on these non-GAAP financial measures, please see the table captioned "Reconciliation of non-GAAP and GAAP Results" set forth at the end of this press release.

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

In China:

Autohome Inc.

Investor Relations

Tel: +86-10-5985-7483

E-mail: [email protected]

The Piacente Group, Inc.

Jenny Cai

Tel: +86-10-6508-0677

E-mail: [email protected]

In the United States:

The Piacente Group, Inc.

Brandi Piacente

Tel: +1-212-481-2050

E-mail: [email protected]

AUTOHOME INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS DATA (Amount in thousands, except per share / per ADS data)













For three months ended March 31,

2020

2021

RMB

RMB

US$

(Unaudited)

(Unaudited)

(Unaudited)











Net revenues:









Media services 566,310

604,824

92,314 Leads generation services 670,459

697,634

106,480 Online marketplace and others 309,860

539,123

82,286 Total net revenues 1,546,629

1,841,581

281,080 Cost of revenues (177,862)

(243,123)

(37,108) Gross profit 1,368,767

1,598,458

243,972











Operating expenses:









Sales and marketing expenses (524,221)

(682,633)

(104,190) General and administrative expenses (89,152)

(128,625)

(19,632) Product development expenses (291,938)

(304,551)

(46,484) Total operating expenses (905,311)

(1,115,809)

(170,306) Other income, net 122,471

83,985

12,819 Operating profit 585,927

566,634

86,485











Interest income 137,391

129,703

19,797 Loss from equity method investments (1,455)

(197)

(30) Fair value change of other non-current assets (9,116)

-

- Income before income taxes 712,747

696,140

106,252











Income tax expense (125,484)

(65,033)

(9,926) Net income 587,263

631,107

96,326 Accretion of Convertible redeemable noncontrolling interests to redemption value -

(327,073)

(49,921) Net income / (loss) attributable to

noncontrolling interests (84)

329,765

50,332 Net income attributable to Autohome Inc. 587,179

633,799

96,737











Earnings per share for ordinary shares









Basic 1.23

1.31

0.20 Diluted 1.23

1.31

0.20 Earnings per ADS attributable to ordinary

shareholders (one ADS equals for four

ordinary shares)









Basic 4.93

5.24

0.80 Diluted 4.91

5.22

0.80











Weighted average shares used to compute

earnings per share attributable to

common stockholders:





















Basic 476,276,352

483,498,580

483,498,580 Diluted 478,588,904

485,207,380

485,207,380

AUTOHOME INC. RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP AND GAAP RESULTS (Amount in thousands, except per share / per ADS data)













For three months ended March 31,

2020

2021

RMB

RMB

US$

(Unaudited)

(Unaudited)

(Unaudited)











Net income attributable to

Autohome Inc. 587,179

633,799

96,737 Plus: income tax expense 125,484

65,033

9,926 Plus: depreciation of property and

equipment 32,405

50,694

7,737 Plus: amortization of intangible

assets 3,230

2,969

453 EBITDA 748,298

752,495

114,853 Plus: share-based compensation

expenses 57,857

53,837

8,217 Plus: Accretion of Convertible

redeemable noncontrolling interests to

redemption value -

70,490

10,759 Adjusted EBITDA 806,155

876,822

133,829











Net income attributable to

Autohome Inc. 587,179

633,799

96,737 Plus: amortization of acquired

intangible assets of

Cheerbright, China Topside

and Norstar 1,139

1,139

174 Plus: share-based compensation

expenses 57,857

53,837

8,217 Plus: accretion of Convertible

redeemable noncontrolling interests to

redemption value -

70,490

10,759 Minus: certain noncontrolling

interests adjustments for TTP -

(24,370)

(3,720) Adjusted net income

attributable to Autohome Inc. 646,175

734,895

112,167











Non-GAAP Earnings per share

for ordinary share









Basic 1.36

1.52

0.23 Diluted 1.35

1.52

0.23 Non-GAAP earnings per ADS

attributable to ordinary

shareholders (one ADS

equals for four ordinary

shares)





















Basic 5.43

6.08

0.93 Diluted 5.40

6.06

0.92











Weighted average shares used

to compute earnings per

share attributable to common

stockholders:





















Basic 476,276,352

483,498,580

483,498,580 Diluted 478,588,904

485,207,380

485,207,380

AUTOHOME INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (Amount in thousands, except as noted)













As of December 31,

As of March 31,

2020

2021

RMB

RMB

US$

(Audited)

(Unaudited)

(Unaudited) ASSETS









Current assets









Cash and cash equivalents 1,751,222

5,386,697

822,171 Restricted Cash -

88,311

13,479 Short-term investments 12,878,176

11,883,925

1,813,841 Accounts receivable, net 3,124,197

2,785,861

425,205 Amounts due from related parties, current 47,303

21,065

3,215 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 563,182

667,898

101,941 Total current assets 18,364,080

20,833,757

3,179,852 Non-current assets









Restricted cash, non-current 17,926

11,950

1,824 Property and equipment, net 410,081

404,736

61,775 Goodwill and intangible assets, net 4,511,812

4,490,704

685,415 Long-term investments 70,418

70,221

10,718 Deferred tax assets 79,661

79,662

12,159 Other non-current assets 276,867

261,516

39,915 Total non-current assets 5,366,765

5,318,789

811,806 Total assets 23,730,845

26,152,546

3,991,658











LIABILITIES AND EQUITY









Current liabilities









Accrued expenses and other payables 2,577,709

2,071,180

316,123 Advance from customers 127,235

100,562

15,349 Deferred revenue 1,315,667

1,385,627

211,488 Income tax payable 85,177

98,975

15,107 Amounts due to related parties 79,895

64,510

9,846 Total current liabilities 4,185,683

3,720,854

567,913 Non-current liabilities









Other liabilities 104,861

91,872

14,022 Deferred tax liabilities 631,509

567,595

86,632 Total non-current liabilities 736,370

659,467

100,654 Total liabilities 4,922,053

4,380,321

668,567











MEZZANINE EQUITY









Convertible redeemable noncontrolling interests 1,056,237

1,383,310

211,134











EQUITY









Total Autohome Inc. shareholders' equity 17,625,734

20,591,859

3,142,932 Noncontrolling interests 126,821

(202,944)

(30,975) Total equity 17,752,555

20,388,915

3,111,957 Total liabilities, mezzanine equity and equity 23,730,845

26,152,546

3,991,658

SOURCE Autohome Inc.
LAVAL, Quebec, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE/TSX: BHC) ("Bausch Health" or the "Company") today announced it will reduce debt by $100 million through the redemption of outstanding senior notes, using cash generated from operations.

Bausch Health will redeem $100 million aggregate principal amount of its outstanding 6.125% Senior Notes due 2025, CUSIP Nos. 91831A AC5, C96729 AC9 (the "Notes") on June 30, 2021. With the redemption announced today, the Company will have redeemed a total of $500 million aggregate principal amount of debt in 2021 using cash generated from operations.

The Company will issue today an irrevocable notice of redemption for the Notes, and a copy will be issued to the record holders of such Notes. Nothing contained herein shall constitute a notice of redemption of the Notes. Payment of the redemption price and surrender of the Notes for redemption will be made through the facilities of the Depository Trust Company in accordance with the applicable procedures of the Depository Trust Company. The name and address of the paying agent are as follows: The Bank of New York Mellon; 111 Sanders Creek Parkway, East Syracuse, N.Y. 13057; Attn: Redemption Unit; Tel: 800-254-2826.

About Bausch Health

Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE/TSX: BHC) is a global company whose mission is to improve people's lives with our health care products. We develop, manufacture and market a range of pharmaceutical, medical device and over-the-counter products, primarily in the therapeutic areas of eye health, gastroenterology and dermatology. We are delivering on our commitments as we build an innovative company dedicated to advancing global health. For more information, visit www.bauschhealth.com and connect with us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information and "Safe Harbor" Statement

This news release may contain forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, the redemption of the Notes. Forward-looking statements may generally be identified by the use of the words "anticipates," "expects," "intends," "plans," "should," "could," "would," "may," "will," "believes," "estimates," "potential," "target," or "continue" and variations or similar expressions. These statements are based upon the current expectations and beliefs of management and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties discussed in the Company's most recent annual and quarterly reports and detailed from time to time in the Company's other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Canadian Securities Administrators, which factors are incorporated herein by reference. They also include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties caused by or relating to the evolving COVID-19 pandemic, and the fear of that pandemic and its potential effects, the severity, duration and future impact of which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, and which may have a material adverse impact on the Company, including but not limited to its supply chain, third-party suppliers, project development timelines, employee base, liquidity, stock price, financial condition and costs (which may increase) and revenue and margins (both of which may decrease). Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any of these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof. Bausch Health undertakes no obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this news release or to reflect actual outcomes, unless required by law.

SOURCE Bausch Health Companies Inc.

Related Links

http://www.bauschhealth.com


BEIJING, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Beacon Education, the world's largest provider of online degrees to China, is proud to announce the expansion of its partnership with the University of Otago with the innovative, interdisciplinary online Master of Business Data Science (MBusDataSc).

The success of the innovative Otago Online MBA, designed for talented Chinese-speaking professionals and executives across China, had companies enthusiastically requesting a skills-based degree in data science with a focus on business, analytics, and practice.

Graduates will acquire advanced knowledge in areas including data analysis application in business, ethical and privacy issues and mitigation approaches technologies for managing large data sets, and techniques for analyzing data.

Robin Gauld, Dean of the Otago Business School notes, "Otago Business School is delighted to be a partner with Beacon in delivery of our world-leading online MBA designed, in this case, for Chinese business professionals. Through our partnership, we have been able to deliver our usual high-quality degree experience, while continuing to be a leader in online education. We are excited about the pending launch of our Masters in Business Data Science with Beacon, also delivered fully in Chinese. Otago Business School and Beacon both value innovation and we look forward to further expanding our partnership in pursuit of world-class online education."

Beacon's CEO Michael Wang explains, "Otago understands Chinese working professional learners, their needs, and goals. This resonates in all aspects of the program design and we are proud to deliver and support the MBA and the incoming MBusDataSc program to talented cohorts around the country."

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO

Founded in 1869 with its main campus in Dunedin, The University of Otago is New Zealand's oldest university now with a presence in Christchurch, Wellington, and Auckland, and Wellington. Its 21,000 students, including 4,000 post grads, come from over 100 countries, all seeking an intensely focused, high quality, and personalized education that has been ranked five stars plus ranking by QS, placing it in the top 1% of universities around the world. https://www.otago.ac.nz/

ABOUT BEACON EDUCATION

Beacon is China's largest provider of online degrees, partnering with the world's leading universities to deliver a broad range of programs and resources. With 35+ programs across 17+ university partners, Beacon is transforming digital, degree-based education in China. https://www.beaconedu.com/

CONTACT:

Charles Iannuzzi

[email protected]

(GS)

SOURCE Beacon Education

Related Links

https://www.beaconedu.com/


The company has extended the AG Core deposit at depth with results of 4 metres at 14.37 g/t gold and the AG South deposit with 9 metres at 61.97 g/t gold.

The results will be included in the Abujar resource update, which is due by the end of the June quarter.

( ) has received further high-grade gold results from 10 diamond infill holes at Abujar-Gludehi (AG) deposit, part of its 3.02-million-ounce Abujar Gold Project in Cote dIvoire, Africa.

At AG Core, high-grade intercepts include:

4 metres at 14.37 g/t gold from 536 metres; and

7 metres at 6.23 g/t from 578 metres, including 1 metre at 39.98 g/t.

At AG South, results include:

7 metres at 6.53 g/t from 90 metres;

4 metres at 3.12 g/t from 104 metres  joining the previously released 5 metres at 109.06 g/t from 99 metres, including 1-metre at 532.06 g/t  resulting in 9 metres at 61.97 g/t from 99 metres and ending in mineralisation.

These high impact holes have potential to add significant shallow high-grade ounces early into the mine schedule.

The infill diamond drilling program is now complete with final assays from the 31 remaining holes still pending.

Increases confidence in resource

Tietto managing director Dr Caigen Wang said: Our infill and extensional drilling program at AG continues to deliver across a range of metrics - more high gold grades, increased resource confidence and resource growth.

We have hit strong gold mineralisation in hole ZDD511 on section 23B and our wide-spaced extensional drilling has confirmed gold mineralisation over 780 metres at depths between 540570 metres below surface.

As we close the drill spacing, we are likely to hit more highgrade shoots which bodes well for future underground development.

Our infill drilling is increasing confidence in the mineral resource, confirming mineralisation at or above expectations as we close up the drill pattern to an indicated resource spacing.

This is clearly indicated from the ultrahigh-grade gold intersected from AG South Section Line 1B to Line 9 over a 900 metres strike length.

Plan view showing latest drill results

Mineral resource update due

These latest results will be included in the next Abujar mineral resource update, due at the end of the current quarter.

This model will be handed over to the mining engineers for open pit optimisation studies and Tietto expects to see a material increase in the Abujar ore reserves in the upcoming DFS.

Dr Wang said: Once the infill program is completed, we intend to use our diamond drill rigs to test the multitude of exploration targets around our proposed mill at Abujar to drive future resource growth.

On the development front, our recent initiatives and work program demonstrate our progress towards delivery of our fully funded Abujar DFS in Q3 2021 and more broadly, positioning Abujar as West Africas next gold mine.

The company expects that the results will underpin a material upgrade in Abujar ore reserves of 15.7 million tonnes at 1.7 g/t gold for 0.86 million ounces (maiden open pit) with AG 22.9 million tonnes at 1.5 g/t gold for 1.12 million ounces mining inventory and open-pitable inferred resources identified at APG (8.1 million tonnes at 0.8 g/t gold for 0.2 million ounces) with the expanded project study.

Next steps

With $52 million cash at the end of March, Tietto remains very well-positioned to advance its dual strategy in 2021:

Continue to drive rapid resource growth at the Abujar Gold Project; and

Fasttrack development of the Abujar Gold Project.

To that end, the company is aggressively exploring to drive rapid resource growth, targeting 100,000 metres of diamond drilling in 2021 using six companyowned DD rigs drilling at US$35/metre.

The rigs are drill testing 8.5 kilometres of fertile Abujar main shear along strike from the existing AG and APG deposits, as well as drill testing high priority regional targets.

Fast tracking development

Tietto continues towards delivery of milestones during 2021 including a definitive feasibility study (DFS) for Abujar, which is on track for release in the third quarter of 2021.

The company has secured a SAG mill for the project, has awarded engineering design of the Abujar Gold Mine Processing Plant to Primero Group and is negotiating the Abujar Mining Convention with the Ivorian Government  the final regulatory step for the company to achieve  with all mining and environmental approvals already secured.
Dr. Chen is a practicing family physician at Asian Health Services, a Federally Qualified Health Center in Oakland, providing care to low-income, recent immigrants with limited English proficiency for three decades. As a former public health officer, he also serves as a coach and advisor at the Center for Health Leadership & Practice of the Public Health Institute and has collaborated with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help improve community health through intersectional and inter-sectoral collaboration.

"As the child of immigrants, I have spent my career advocating for health equity for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and other underserved populations," Dr. Chen said. "I am honored to join Blue Shield's board of directors and look forward to helping create a healthcare system that delivers accessible, high-quality care that addresses social determinants of health and is sustainably affordable for everyone."

Chen's appointment follows the appointment of Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan in January to the health plan's board and last fall's election of Kristina (Kris) Leslie as the first woman to chair the board. Blue Shield's board of directors is now comprised of seven women and seven men, nearly half of which are comprised of people of color.

"Dr. Chen is a mission-driven family practitioner and leader in public health, who drives strategic alignment and systems change while promoting public-private collaborations," Leslie said. "His expertise and knowledge will help us greatly, and we all look forward to working with Dr. Chen to help reimagine a more equitable health care system worthy of our family and friends."

In addition to his family practice in Oakland, Dr. Chen has served as the Chief Medical and Population Health Officer at Applied Research Works Inc., assisting with Whole Person Care Management and the development of decision-support tools. He also has previously served as the Chief Medical Officer and Medical Director at the Alameda Alliance for Health, organizing data reports to identify and track racial and ethnic health disparities while promoting prevention and improved quality care. Dr. Chen received his medical degree from the University of California, Davis, and completed his residency at the Residency Program in Social Medicine, Montefiore Hospital and Medical Center of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx, New York City.

Blue Shield of California is a leader in diversity and gender equity, with the Board of Directors leading the way: four of the five standing board committees are now led by women. The health plan also achieved pay equity for its employees across gender and ethnicity in 2018 and has a balanced representation of women and men in leadership roles (Director and above). Blue Shield was recently recognized as a top U.S. company on the 2021 National Diversity Council Index and ranked #1 on DiversityInc.'s Top 50 Regionals list for the second year in a row.

About Blue Shield of California

Blue Shield of California strives to create a healthcare system worthy of its family and friends that is sustainably affordable. Blue Shield of California is a tax paying, nonprofit, independent member of the Blue Shield Association with over 4.5 million members, over 7,500 employees and more than $21 billion in annual revenue. Founded in 1939 in San Francisco and now headquartered in Oakland, Blue Shield of California and its affiliates provide health, dental, vision, Medicaid and Medicare healthcare service plans in California. The company has contributed more than $150 million to Blue Shield of California Foundation in the last four years to have an impact on California communities.

For more news about Blue Shield of California, please visit news.blueshieldca.com.

Or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook.

CONTACT: Mark Seelig

Blue Shield of California

510-607-2359

[email protected]

SOURCE Blue Shield of California

Related Links

www.bcbs.com


"Breinify is taking the world by storm with their incredibly powerful AI personalization platform. They have done a phenomenal job in understanding and achieving measurable ROI for their customers. And from the first day I met Diane and Philipp, I believed fully in their vision and mission. I am confident that the Breinify team and product is perfectly positioned to be at the forefront of the data science horizon," said Bob Davoli, managing director at Gutbrain Ventures.

Breinify has seen tremendous growth, upselling to 81.25% of existing customers, increasing net new revenue by 4.3 times and having enough runway for 15 months in fiscal year 2020. New funds will be used to triple down on go-to-market execution, meet the increase of market demand, support customer growth and expand product features.

The company's mission is to democratize data science and allow enterprises to harness the power of data science and predictive personalization without a team of data scientists. Breinify already works with Fortune 500 companies in the retail and consumer goods industries and is looking to rapidly grow its business in the coming months.



"On behalf of all Breiniacs and myself, I am beyond ecstatic to partner with Bob Davoli, managing director at Gutbrain Ventures, and Bruce Clarke, managing director at PBJ Capital. Ullas Naik, managing partner at Streamlined Ventures, was amazing to introduce me to Bob and Bruce," said Diane Keng, CEO of Breinify. "After a fiercely competitive negotiation war between multiple firms, we felt Bob's and Bruce's expertise and networks were the perfect fit to lead our seed round. Also a huge shout out to our existing investors Gary and Atul from The CXO Fund, Larry Li from Amino Capital, Donavan Kealoha from Startup Capital Ventures and Ash Rust from Sterling Road for moving swiftly and supporting us continuously!"

Breinify's round was oversubscribed due to new logos and repeatable land-and-expand business models during the pandemic. The product processed more than 480 million consumer journey data points with no downtime. Customers such as BevMo!, Duraflame and others experienced astronomical ROI, including $125 million in new revenue, 20 times with A/B testing for more than two page visits and a 105% increase in CRM growth.

In 2021, personalization is more important than ever. There is no room for broad, generalized marketing. Customers crave and expect personalized experiences that subtly enable them to discover and find products they actually want. Data science is a powerful way to take personalization to the next level.

Breinify's AI-powered personalization platform democratizes data science for non-technical marketers. It allows revenue leaders to achieve more with less, invest in smart systems instead of headcount and drive delightful consumer experiences at the individual level with minimal engineering. The platform seamlessly connects and collects first-party data, uncovers insights, streamlines and executes the consumer experience and works fully end to end to provide clear metrics.

"Breinify is essential to our future marketing strategy," said BevMo! CMO Matthew Champion. "They have been amazing in delivering scalable results and lifting our sales through their AI, and have become an integral part of our brand's acquisition and engagement efforts."

About Breinify

Breinify is a venture-backed AI company that helps enterprises deliver personalized and relevant digital experiences. The company is headquartered in San Francisco, Calif., with additional offices in Germany. It was founded by technical entrepreneurs, Diane Keng (CEO) and Philipp Meisen (CTO) to address consumer brands' needs for data science capabilities.

Leading companies, including BevMo!, Duraflame and other consumer brands, rely on Breinify to drive revenue, growth, engagement and additional business objectives. For more information, please visit: http://www.breinify.ai and follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/breinify/mycompany/.

Contact Information

Anushka Lokesh

Head of Growth

[email protected]

SOURCE Breinify

Related Links

https://www.breinify.ai


"Glen-Gery has always been committed to providing customized, end-to-end solutions to meet every customer's unique needs," said Mark Ellenor, president, Brickworks North America. "Whether you're an experienced builder, architect or a homeowner, the new supply center in Des Moines is a premium one-stop shop where customers can not only collaborate and leverage our expertise, but also compare, select, and purchase everything they need for their projects."

Located at 4601 NW Urbandale Drive, the supply center's 25,000-square-foot space includes:

A consultation area where a team of experienced staff will offer expert advice, review plans and guide customers through the product selection process for projects of any size

A stunning 7,000-square-foot showroom displaying an impressive portfolio of products, including brick, stone and pavers

An 18,000-square-foot warehouse hosting a large selection of masonry products and supplies

A trade area where builders, contractors and homeowners can purchase necessary tools and supplies

A fully-equipped training and education center for trade professionals to expand their knowledge and technical skills through a forthcoming series of seminars, classes and trainings

A high-end event space for industry events hosted by Glen-Gery

Glen-Gery currently operates ten masonry supply centers in the U.S. and has a long history of manufacturing and distributing brick products in Iowa. To learn more about Glen-Gery, visit https://www.glengery.com.

MEDIA CONTACT

Kelly Nguyen

[email protected]

609-385-6701



ABOUT GLEN-GERY

Glen-Gery Corporation, part of Brickworks Limited of Australia, is a premier brick and stone manufacturer offering the most diverse product portfolio of more than 700 brick and stone products. For more than a century, Glen-Gery has provided high quality building products that meet both innovative design challenges and demanding construction specifications. Through technology advancements and product innovations, Glen-Gery delivers a premium product line that caters to the high-style needs of today's architects, designers and homeowners. Founded in 1890, Glen-Gery is headquartered in Wyomissing, PA. www.glengery.com

ABOUT BRICKWORKS LIMITED

Brickworks Limited is a publicly listed Australian-owned company (ASX code: BKW), Australia's largest brick maker and one of that country's leading building products companies. Brickworks traces its history to 1934, today offering products including bricks, masonry blocks, retaining wall systems, pavers, roof tiles, precast concrete panels, timber products and more. The company distributes its products throughout Australia and New Zealand. Through Brickworks North America Corporation, Glen-Gery is one of the largest brick manufacturers in the United States. www.brickworks.com.au

SOURCE Glen-Gery

Related Links

http://www.glengery.com


GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Campspot, a leading online marketplace for RV resorts, family campgrounds, cabins, glamping options and more, announces today a new affiliate marketing program to offer media, independent publishers and other partners commission on sales on the Campspot platform.

Campspot's new affiliate program will be run through AWIN, the leading global affiliate network with 205,000 contributing publishers and 14,600 brands. Through Campspot's affiliate program, media will receive a commission on sales when a customer uses their link and books a stay on Campspot.

"We are thrilled to announce the Campspot affiliate program and work closer with the media to offer the best selection of campgrounds and campsites in a way that is mutually beneficial," said Michael Scheinman, Campspot CEO. "This affiliate program is an important part of our business model and we are excited to welcome affiliates to further support campers across the country."

Developed by campground owners, Campspot officially launched in 2015 with a goal to elevate the outdoor industry through technology, providing campgrounds a powerful tool to better manage bookings and grow revenue. In 2020, it rolled out its public booking platform, allowing travelers to search and book thousands of campgrounds, and quickly becoming the premier marketplace for outdoor travel. From 2019 to 2020, Campspot saw a 220% increase in the volume of bookings across all of its customers.

Campspot, the Grand Rapids, Michigan-based company, which also has development offices in Denver, Colorado, and Chicago, Illinois, was founded with the intent to provide a simple, modern online booking experience serving campers and campgrounds. Since the initial software was launched, it has processed hundreds of millions of searches and millions of bookings.

To learn more about Campspot's affiliate program or to sign up and join, follow this link.

About Campspot

Campspot is a leading online marketplace for RV resorts, family campgrounds, cabins, glamping options and more, providing access to almost 110,000 campsites across the United States and Canada. Campspot's real-time, cloud-based campground management solution enables a best-in- class reservation system (site inventory and ancillary add-ons) by giving its customers a POS system and the necessary management tools (utility billing, housekeeping tracking, etc.) to provide the best possible user experience Campspot provides an intuitive easy-to-navigate guest booking experience that returns relevant and easy-to-modify searches, making planning vacation seamless. For more information, please visit www.campspot.com. Follow Campspot on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

SOURCE Campspot

Related Links

https://www.campspot.com


SAN FRANCISCO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Resolute Capital Partners ("Resolute Capital"), a private equity firm that actively invests in and manages investments in real estate, technology, and energy, announced today that Candace Powell, managing partner, executive vice president, received the Patriot Award in recognition of her support for a Resolute Capital employee during that employee's military deployment in the National Guard. The award is given by the Employer Support Group of the Guard and Reserve ("ESGR"), a Department of Defense program.

"At Resolute Capital, we are extremely proud of the military service of our employees, including those who choose to continue to serve in the National Guard or Reserve," said Thomas J. Powell, Resolute Capital's founder. "We know that these veterans offer a variety of skills that cannot be found elsewhere. Having had the opportunity to work with Candace for several years, I know that she shares our passion to support our country's warriors. The Patriot Award could not have gone to a more deserving person."

The Patriot Award is bestowed upon an individual who has provided direct support to service members and their families. The award is a reflection of the efforts made to support our country's citizen warriors. This support may involve flexible scheduling, family care, time off before and after deployment, and granting leaves of absence if necessary. The award was presented to Candace at an internal ceremony, attended by both Resolute Capital employees and ESGR representatives.

"National Guard and Reserve members bring tremendous skills and capabilities to our workforce, and employer support for their military service is critical to maintaining the strength of our Guard and Reserve units," said Steve Seroka, Chair of the Nevada ESGR Committee. "We appreciate employers like Resolute Capital, and leaders like Candace Powell who prioritize support for their military employees. By valuing their employees' military service, they are directly supporting the sustainment of our all-volunteer Force and our National Defense."

"I am extremely honored to receive the Patriot Award," said Ms. Powell. "Juggling the responsibilities of being both an employee and a military service member is a challenging task, and I applaud anyone who embraces this challenge. I am proud to support our citizen warriors to my utmost capabilities."

In addition to receiving her framed award certificate and lapel pin, Ms. Powell also signed a Statement of Support, signaling Resolute Capital's continued efforts to hire members of the National Guard and Reserve. Resolute Capital is now nationally recognized as a patriotic employer.

About Resolute Capital Partners

Resolute Capital Partners ("Resolute Capital") is a private equity firm with offices in San Francisco, Dallas, and Minneapolis. Having placed more than $3 billion in institutional-grade and private securities investments throughout their careers, its seasoned executive team has vast experience managing investments during all market cycles. Resolute Capital contributes professional expertise and multi-level support to companies, helping them realize their vision and creating the potential for flexibility and opportunity. Since its founding in 2010, Resolute Capital has raised over $560 million in its various energy, technology, and real estate funds. By partnering with issuers beyond Wall Street, Resolute Capital is bringing capital to worthy projects.

For more information, please visit www.resolutecapitalpartners.com.

About Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve ("ESGR"), a Department of Defense program, was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve Component Service members and their civilian employers and to assist in the resolution of conflicts arising from an employee's military commitment. ESGR is supported by a network of more than 3,750 volunteers in 54 committees located across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam-CNMI (Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands), Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Volunteers, hailing from small business and industry, government, education, and prior military service bring a vast wealth of experience to assist in serving employers, Service members, and their families. Together with Headquarters ESGR staff and a small cadre of support staff for each State Committee, volunteers work to promote and enhance employer support for military service in the Guard and Reserve.



For more information, please visit www.esgr.mil.

Contact: Rebecca Cleary

Spotlight Marketing Communications

714-795-1054

[email protected]

SOURCE Resolute Capital Partners
CAESAREA, Israel, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- CardiacSense, a Medtech company and the Israel Aerospace Medicine Institute were selected to send CardiacSense's medical watch to space. The clinically verified medical grade watch enables continuous, long-term, medical grade and comfortable patient monitoring without the need to implant invasive cardiac monitors. CardiacSense is pleased to announce that their medical watch will monitor Eytan Stibbe's vital signs and general health condition during his mission to the international space station.

Meni Itzhak, CardiacSense VP R&D, with Eytan Stibbe, Israeli second astronaut. Credit: Elad Malka (PRNewsfoto/CardiacSense)

Stibbe's launch is scheduled for February 2022 as part of the Rakia Project by the Ramon Foundation and in collaboration with the Israel Aerospace Medicine Institute. The Rakia Project is part of the first private mission to space by SpaceX. CardiacSense's medical watch, one of the technological scientific developments that will accompany the mission, will monitor Stibbe's vital signs and general health condition throughout the mission. CardiacSense's medical watch already received the CE Mark and the Israeli Ministry of Health regulatory approval and is expected to be available for commercial use during the upcoming quarter.

"This is a first-of-its-kind project that was made possible by CardiacSense's unique and innovative technology, and in turn, reflects the project managers' confidence in our medical watch and its capabilities," said Eldad Shemesh, Co-founder and CEO of CardiacSense. "We are proud to be a part of this unique and special project and accompany Eytan Stibbe while we write Israeli history in space. This is a voyage to expand the limits of our human and technological abilities and to redefine telehealth, and for CardiacSense, it serves as proof that even the sky isn't the limit."

Dr. Eran Schenker, CMIO of the Israel Aerospace Medicine Institute, said: "In space, many psychological changes occur and affect the human body. Monitoring vital signs using CardiacSense's medical watch allows, for the first time, for a simple and continuous observation of many metrics that will greatly help in understanding the biological processes that astronauts experience while in space."

About CardiacSense

CardiacSense is a Medtech company that has developed CE approved best-in class, wrist-wearable sensor technology with the sensitivity and specificity required for medical diagnosis and monitoring of vital signs, arrhythmias, and chronic disease deterioration. The medical watch integrates proprietary patent-protected sensors and software algorithms to provide continuous measurement of parameters such as core temperature, respiratory rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation and heart rate at CE and FDA-mandated accuracies  providing an alternative to costly and, complex invasive devices. This addresses the increasing global demand for remote patient monitoring and tele-health. CardiacSense was founded in 2009 and is headquartered at Caesarea, Israel.

www.cardiacsense.com

Further information:

Eyal Copitt, CCO

[email protected]

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1519963/CardiacSense.jpg

SOURCE CardiacSense
ST. LOUIS, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC) through its foundation, the Centene Charitable Foundation, has pledged to match the first $1 million in corporate donations to the Hispanic Family Equity Fund. The fund, which was launched by the Healthy Americas Foundation (HAF), the supporting organization of the National Alliance for Hispanic Health, aims to support Hispanic families in the post-pandemic recovery.

Michael Neidorff, Centene President and CEO, and Marcela Manjarrez Hawn, Centene Senior Vice President and Chief Communications Officer, issued a call to Fortune 1000 companies and other corporations and foundations to contribute to the initiative and help play an active role in reducing systemic inequities that have challenged the Hispanic community.

"The COVID-19 pandemic shined a light on the health and economic inequities faced by Hispanic and other communities nationwide," said Michael F. Neidorff, Chairman, President and CEO of Centene. "As we now emerge into a post-pandemic world, we have been given a clear opportunity to close the well-being gap faced by far too many Americans. We encourage businesses across the Fortune 1000 community and other corporations to join Centene in supporting our ongoing efforts to provide opportunities for Hispanic communities, our nation's largest minority group, while also looking for innovative ways to ensure equity within their own organizations."

"By investing directly in communities and bolstering resources at the local level, the Healthy Americas Foundation can best meet the needs of Hispanic families," said Jane L. Delgado, PhD, MS, President and CEO of the Healthy Americas Foundation. "We look forward to working with Centene to ensure more equitable outcomes in the Hispanic community and are grateful for their support of the Fund. With so much now at stake for Hispanics, inaction cannot and will not be an option."

"As business leaders, we have a responsibility to lead by example and to create greater equity and opportunity for the communities we serve," said Marcela Manjarrez Hawn, Centene Senior Vice President, Chief Communications Officer. "Centene and the Centene Charitable Foundation are committed to increasing diverse representation at all levels of our company as well as ensuring our Hispanic and other minority members receive high-quality, culturally sensitive care. We are proud to build on these efforts in partnership with the Healthy Americas Foundation."

The fund includes three components:

1) $20 million in immediate equity grants to leading community-based organizations to support community family services. The grants will be used to facilitate the hiring of community navigators who will help close the gap in utilization of early education, childcare, food security, health insurance, economic support, and job training.

2) $5 million to monitor national, state, and community policies for recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and ensure those policies serve Hispanic families.

3) $75 million as a standing fund to support emerging opportunities and foster innovation in the delivery of services to close the well-being gap for Hispanic families.

The fund's launch comes at a time when less than 2 percent of philanthropic dollars are invested in Hispanic-serving organizations. Now, as Hispanic Americans face disproportionate negative health and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is an urgent need to address longstanding inequities.

Centene remains committed to increasing diversity within its own workplace. Sixteen percent of Centene employees are Hispanic or Latino, and Hispanic employees represent 12 percent of Supervisor and above leadership roles throughout the company. Centene has Hispanic representation at the highest levels including on the Board of Directors, the C-suite, the Centene Health Equity and Wellness Council and the Centene Health Policy Advisory Council. In addition, our Health Equity and Wellness Council and Health Policy Advisory Council provide critical counsel on how Centene can best support underserved communities nationwide. Centene currently serves a population that is 27 percent Hispanic.

The Hispanic Family Equity Fund is one of several efforts that both Centene and the Centene Charitable Foundation are engaged in to support diverse communities. In June 2020, Centene Corporation and the National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF), an independent research organization dedicated to ensuring high-risk racial and ethnic populations receive optimal healthcare, announced a research partnership for the "Minority and Rural Coronavirus Insights Study (MRCIS)" to assess the impact of COVID-19 on racial minorities and underserved communities across the country. Through the partnership, Centene, NMQF, and a range of other public and private healthcare entities including Quest Diagnostics, came together to conduct COVID-19 PCR testing (to confirm current COVID-19 infection) and antibody testing (to confirm previous COVID-19 infection) at Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) in California, Florida, Illinois, Louisiana, and Ohio, and 38% of enrollees in the study identified as Hispanic or Latino. In addition, Centene has a long-standing strategic partnership with the National Hispanic Medical Association.

For more information about the Hispanic Family Equity Fund, visit https://www.healthyamericasfund.org/hispanicfamily.

About Centene Corporation

Centene Corporation, a Fortune 50 company, is a leading multi-national healthcare enterprise that is committed to helping people live healthier lives. The Company takes a local approach  with local brands and local teams  to provide fully integrated, high-quality, and cost-effective services to government-sponsored and commercial healthcare programs, focusing on under-insured and uninsured individuals. Centene offers affordable and high-quality products to nearly 1 in 15 individuals across the nation, including Medicaid and Medicare members (including Medicare Prescription Drug Plans) as well as individuals and families served by the Health Insurance Marketplace, the TRICARE program, and individuals in correctional facilities. The Company also serves several international markets, and contracts with other healthcare and commercial organizations to provide a variety of specialty services focused on treating the whole person. Centene focuses on long-term growth and the development of its people, systems and capabilities so that it can better serve its members, providers, local communities, and government partners.

Centene uses its investor relations website to publish important information about the Company, including information that may be deemed material to investors. Financial and other information about Centene is routinely posted and is accessible on Centene's investor relations website, http://www.centene.com/investors.

Forward-Looking Statements

All statements, other than statements of current or historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Without limiting the foregoing, forward-looking statements often use words such as "believe," "anticipate," "plan," "expect," "estimate," "intend," "seek," "target," "goal," "may," "will," "would," "could," "should," "can," "continue" and other similar words or expressions (and the negative thereof). Centene (the Company, our, or we) intends such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe-harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and we are including this statement for purposes of complying with these safe-harbor provisions. In particular, these statements include, without limitation, statements about our future operating or financial performance, market opportunity, growth strategy, competition, expected activities in completed and future acquisitions, including statements about the impact of our proposed acquisition of Magellan Health (the Magellan Acquisition), our recently completed acquisition of WellCare Health Plans, Inc. (WellCare and such acquisition, the WellCare Acquisition), other recent and future acquisitions, investments and the adequacy of our available cash resources. These forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and are based on numerous assumptions and assessments made by us in light of our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, business strategies, operating environments, future developments and other factors we believe appropriate. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are subject to change because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future, including economic, regulatory, competitive and other factors that may cause our or our industry's actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. All forward-looking statements included in this press release are based on information available to us on the date hereof. Except as may be otherwise required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements included in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date hereof. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, as actual results may differ materially from projections, estimates, or other forward-looking statements due to a variety of important factors, variables and events including, but not limited to: the impact of COVID-19 on global markets, economic conditions, the healthcare industry and our results of operations and the response by governments and other third parties to COVID-19; the risk that regulatory or other approvals required for the Magellan Acquisition may be delayed or not obtained or are subject to unanticipated conditions that could require the exertion of management's time and our resources or otherwise have an adverse effect on us; the possibility that certain conditions to the consummation of the Magellan Acquisition will not be satisfied or completed on a timely basis and accordingly the Magellan Acquisition may not be consummated on a timely basis or at all; uncertainty as to the expected financial performance of the combined company following completion of the Magellan Acquisition; the possibility that the expected synergies and value creation from the Magellan Acquisition or the WellCare Acquisition will not be realized, or will not be realized within the respective expected time periods; the risk that unexpected costs will be incurred in connection with the completion and/or integration of the Magellan Acquisition or that the integration of Magellan Health will be more difficult or time consuming than expected; the risk that potential litigation in connection with the Magellan Acquisition may affect the timing or occurrence of the Magellan Acquisition or result in significant costs of defense, indemnification and liability; a downgrade of the credit rating of our indebtedness, which could give rise to an obligation to redeem existing indebtedness; the inability to retain key personnel; disruption from the announcement, pendency, completion and/or integration of the Magellan Acquisition or from the integration of the WellCare Acquisition, or similar risks from other acquisitions we may announce or complete from time to time, including potential adverse reactions or changes to business relationships with customers, employees, suppliers or regulators, making it more difficult to maintain business and operational relationships; our ability to accurately predict and effectively manage health benefits and other operating expenses and reserves, including fluctuations in medical utilization rates due to the impact of COVID-19; competition; membership and revenue declines or unexpected trends; changes in healthcare practices, new technologies and advances in medicine; increased healthcare costs; changes in economic, political or market conditions; changes in federal or state laws or regulations, including changes with respect to income tax reform or government healthcare programs as well as changes with respect to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Affordability Reconciliation Act (collectively referred to as the ACA) and any regulations enacted thereunder that may result from changing political conditions, the new administration or judicial actions, including the ultimate outcome in "Texas v. United States of America" regarding the constitutionality of the ACA; rate cuts or other payment reductions or delays by governmental payors and other risks and uncertainties affecting our government businesses; our ability to adequately price products; tax matters; disasters or major epidemics; changes in expected contract start dates; provider, state, federal, foreign and other contract changes and timing of regulatory approval of contracts; the expiration, suspension, or termination of our contracts with federal or state governments (including, but not limited to, Medicaid, Medicare, TRICARE or other customers); the difficulty of predicting the timing or outcome of pending or future legal and regulatory proceedings or government investigations; challenges to our contract awards; cyber-attacks or other privacy or data security incidents; the possibility that the expected synergies and value creation from acquired businesses, including businesses we may acquire in the future, will not be realized, or will not be realized within the expected time period; the exertion of management's time and our resources, and other expenses incurred and business changes required in connection with complying with the undertakings in connection with any regulatory, governmental or third party consents or approvals for acquisitions, including the Magellan acquisition; disruption caused by significant completed and pending acquisitions making it more difficult to maintain business and operational relationships; the risk that unexpected costs will be incurred in connection with the completion and/or integration of acquisition transactions; changes in expected closing dates, estimated purchase price and accretion for acquisitions; the risk that acquired businesses will not be integrated successfully; restrictions and limitations in connection with our indebtedness; our ability to maintain or achieve improvement in the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Star ratings and maintain or achieve improvement in other quality scores in each case that can impact revenue and future growth; availability of debt and equity financing, on terms that are favorable to us; inflation; foreign currency fluctuations and risks and uncertainties discussed in the reports that Centene has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. This list of important factors is not intended to be exhaustive. We discuss certain of these matters more fully, as well as certain other factors that may affect our business operations, financial condition and results of operations, in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K. Due to these important factors and risks, we cannot give assurances with respect to our future performance, including without limitation our ability to maintain adequate premium levels or our ability to control our future medical and selling, general and administrative costs.

SOURCE Centene Corporation

Related Links

http://www.centene.com


CHICAGO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- P33, a nonprofit focused on making Chicagoland one of the best places to work in tech, announces the Come Back to Move Forward campaign to attract top-tier tech talent with ties to the Midwest back to the Chicago area. This first of a kind initiative, which is live today at gotechchicago.com connects mid-career, cream-of-the-crop tech talent by providing visibility and access to high caliber networking and lucrative job opportunities at Chicago's most innovative startups and corporations.

The North American tech talent market is 6.3 million people. Out of the 6.3 million, the campaign is targeting an estimated 100,000 tech professionals with previous ties to the Chicagoland area. This campaign initially intends to reach over 15,000 tech professionals over the next few months and is expected to scale further later in the year.

"I'm very proud to see how our entire ecosystem of world-class universities, corporations, startups and business incubators are coming together to create real, sustainable change," noted Michael Fassnacht, President and Chief Executive Officer for World Business Chicago & CMO, City of Chicago. "We're building a workforce that's true to our DNA as a city  we don't make small plans; we're committed to growing our tech economy and changing the world."

Over the past 6 months, P33 has galvanized, a coalition of 50 employers including corporations and startups, 3 leading educational institutions, 6 startup incubators, in addition to dozens of influential tech leaders who have come on board to participate. Participating companies include established tech giants like Google and Microsoft, Chicago's Fortune 500 companies such as Allstate and Motorola as well as emerging tech companies such as Amount, M1 Finance, Oak Street Health.

The campaign is one of several initiatives underway to spur the region's ability to recruit and retain 10,000 tech professionals over the next two years.

"Chicago has an incredible depth of opportunities and some of the most dynamic and fast-growing startups in the country," noted Brad Henderson, Chief Executive Officer for P33. "Together we are tackling problems that matter and are hiring in droves to scale. We are building the most diverse ecosystem in the country."

The Come Back to Move Forward campaign is part of a larger strategy to reshape traditional talent recruitment efforts into a business-driven, scalable model that can directly address long-standing challenges to developing a diverse, tech-ready workforce. This new model breaks away from traditional approaches that typically overburden educational institutions, start talent development too late, overlook the challenges of DEI, and are deployed on a small, fragmented scale. Instead, the new model for attracting and retaining talent is employer-driven, reaches into the talent development pipeline much earlier, and embeds an intentional corporate commitment to DEI, and is designed to scale.

The Come Back to Move Forward campaign is a first step in establishing a unique, Chicago-affiliated network made up of top-tier tech professionals working anywhere in the US and across the globe. This campaign is targeting mid-career tech professionals who either have roots in the Midwest or attended school in Illinois. Specifically, the campaign is focused on talent with the most in-demand tech skills needed by local employers in the fields of data, software, cloud, AI and engineering.

To help entice people back, tech professionals who provide their email and LinkedIn profile can plug into Chicago's tech scene and receive personalized, concierge service and connect to Chicago employers looking to hire. Additionally, a select number of tech professionals who signup is eligible to win a Welcome Backpack featuring Lollapalooza tickets, Airbnb experiences, and passes to The Forge and other Chicagoland experiences. The full list of participating companies and perks can be found at gotechchicago.com. A digital ad campaign will run in a select number of markets including, San Francisco, New York, Seattle, Los Angeles, Boston, Atlanta, Denver, Austin, Dallas and Washington, DC.

"Part of this effort is about closing the gap between misperception and reality," commented Kristi Ross, co-founder and co-CEO of Chicago-based tastytrade, who is one of the rare female co-founders to reach a $1 billion dollar exit. "Even with the Covid lockdown, we've continued to grow. We currently have more than 35,000 tech jobs in data, engineering, cloud and software development, and we're actively building the most inclusive tech ecosystem in the U.S."

Chicago is one of the best cities in the U.S. for female founders and has the highest concentration of women-owned startups in the world  at 34%. In February, in partnership with Verizon and 1871, the #1 university Chicago-based incubator in the world, P33 announced TechRise, one of the largest non-dilutive grant funds for early-stage Black and Latinx tech founders.

Unlike other regions, in Chicago no one industry makes up more than 13% of its GDP. Chicago's growing tech economy includes a powerful mix of B2B and B2C companies and startups in agriculture, healthcare, logistics, food, insurance, and includes the advancement of early- stage technologies like quantum information science  estimated to be one of the most influential tech advancements of the decade.

About World Business Chicago

World Business Chicago is a public-private, non-profit partnership that drives inclusive economic growth and job creation, supports business, and promotes Chicago as a leading global city. For more information, visit worldbusinesschicago.com

About P33

P33 is a privately funded non-profit focused on driving inclusive, global tech and innovation for Chicagoland. P33's work is anchored in deep research and is driven by a need to unlock the potential of the digital age to solve some of the toughest problems facing Chicago, such as equitable access to digital careers, talent retention, deep science commercialization and gaps in our growth stage startup ecosystem. Formed in 2019, P33 is co-chaired by Penny Pritzker, former Secretary of Commerce and Founder and Chairwoman of PSP Partners; Chris Gladwin, CEO and Co-founder of Ocient and Cleversafe; and Kelly Welsh, President of the Civic Committee of The Commercial Club of Chicago.

For more information about the Come Back to Move Forward campaign, please reach out [email protected].

SOURCE P33

Related Links

https://www.p33chicago.com/


BEIJING, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from chinadaily.com.cn:

Poverty alleviation is a primary indicator of, and an essential task for, the completion of the CPC's First Centenary Goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects. Since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012, the CPC Central Committee, with President Xi Jinping at its core, has prioritized poverty alleviation in exercising its leadership of the state and adopted creative and unique measures to wage a battle against poverty that is unprecedented in history for its scale, intensity, and the number of people affected. Following eight years of continuous endeavor, we have completed our goal of poverty alleviation on schedule. We have eliminated the problem of absolute poverty, which has plagued the Chinese nation for thousands of years, and secured a major victory that has earned worldwide acclaim.

Sound decision-making for a grand undertaking

Eliminating poverty, improving people's standard of living, and ensuring prosperity for all are essential requirements of socialism and the mission of the CPC. The Party and Chinese government have always acknowledged the importance of poverty alleviation and listed reducing poverty while increasing development among its wider economic and social development objectives. After the policy of reform and opening up was introduced in 1978, China has implemented a large-scale program of poverty alleviation. The government formulated mid- and long-term poverty reduction plans, continuously advanced poverty alleviation, and improved poverty-stricken areas and the living standards of poor people.

Since the 18th CPC National Congress, President Xi and the Central Committee have relied on the efforts of the whole Party, the entire nation, and all of society to obtain victory in the battle against poverty. President Xi has personally directed operations, designed plans, and led from the front. He has travelled to concentrated areas of poverty across China. Every year his first trip outside the capital is always to inspect poverty alleviation efforts. He talks about poverty alleviation in every New Year message. Every year, he has raised the issue of reducing poverty with participants to the Two Sessions (NPC and CPPCC), issued vital instructions on National Poverty Alleviation Day, held an annual meeting to plan and advance poverty alleviation efforts, and presided over meetings to evaluate the performance of poverty alleviation. He has also repeatedly stressed the need to overcome poverty at major events, important conferences, and at key times. President Xi has brought an ethos of perseverance to China's poverty alleviation efforts, and adopted a relentless and positive approach in pursuit of victory.

At the end of 2012, President Xi visited Fuping in Hebei, an old revolutionary base, to inspect poverty alleviation efforts. During his visit, he famously said, "Rural areas are the yardstick for determining whether or not we have reached moderate prosperity," which was the prelude to China's poverty alleviation drive. While visiting Shibadong Village in Huayuan County, Hunan in 2013, President Xi introduced his strategy of "targeted poverty alleviation," which set the tone for poverty alleviation in the new era. In 2015, President Xi held a meeting on poverty alleviation and prosperity in the old revolutionary base area of Yan'an, located in a region on the borders of Shaanxi, Gansu and Ningxia provinces, where he pointed out the need to ensure that people in poverty-stricken areas achieve moderate prosperity in step with the rest of the country. That same year, at a meeting in Guiyang City, Guizhou Province on the theme of poverty alleviation and economic and social development during the 13th Five-Year Plan period in certain provinces and regions, he emphasized that, "Precision is the crux of poverty alleviation and must be the focus of our efforts since it will determine whether or not we succeed." After a series of investigations and studies, the Fifth Plenary Session of the 18th CPC Central Committee set out China's poverty alleviation objective. Subsequently, at the end of 2015, the CPC Central Committee held a conference on poverty alleviation and development, at which President Xi explained in his keynote speech the major goals, tasks, and measures of poverty alleviation and identified targeted poverty alleviation as China's basic strategy. After the meeting, the CPC Central Committee and the State Council issued the Decision on Winning the Fight against Poverty, which launched China's battle against poverty in earnest. In 2016, a meeting was held in Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region on promoting poverty alleviation through cooperation between China's eastern and western regions, where President Xi emphasized the necessity and wider importance of long-term regional cooperation and one-to-one assistance. In 2017, President Xi held a meeting in Taiyuan, Shanxi on fighting extreme poverty and emphasized that poverty alleviation in deeply impoverished areas would be the hardest battle to win but must be seen through to victory.

The 19th CPC National Congress in 2017 identified targeted poverty alleviation as one of the three major battles that needed to be waged. The CPC Central Committee and the State Council then issued the Guidelines on the Three-Year Action Plan to Win the Battle against Poverty, marking the start of more concerted efforts against poverty in China. In 2018, President Xi chaired a meeting in Chengdu, Sichuan on targeted poverty alleviation, in order to promote effective practices. Another meeting was held in Chongqing in 2019 on resolving outstanding issues to ensure adequate food and clothing as well as access to compulsory education, basic medical services, and safe housing for poor rural populations in areas of extreme poverty, which emphasized the importance of high-quality poverty alleviation. In 2020, faced with the sudden impact of Covid-19, President Xi took charge of the situation and made decisions backed by science. He held a meeting in Beijing on achieving a decisive victory in the battle against poverty and issued a general rallying call. After the meeting, he travelled to Shaanxi, Shanxi, Ningxia, Jilin, Anhui, and Hunan to conduct inspections, during which he insisted on firm adherence to the goals and tasks for the final year of the 13th Five-Year Plan. In December 2020, President Xi presided over a meeting of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, where he listened to poverty alleviation summaries and assessments, hailed China's important victory over poverty, provided an in-depth analysis of China's new circumstances and tasks, and issued clear instructions on consolidating and expanding achievements in poverty alleviation.

Looking back on China's spectacular poverty alleviation journey, it has involved unprecedented focus, practicality, and strength to achieve things that were previously unachievable, to overcome difficulties that had been insurmountable for so long, and to obtain a great, historic, and symbolic victory. Success in the battle against poverty has demonstrated the significant strengths of the leadership of the CPC and the system of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and increased the cohesion of the Party and the people across the country.

Targeted strategies to end a millennia-old problem

The CPC Central Committee made it clear that its objectives were to lift all poor rural residents above the current poverty line, remove poor counties from the poverty list, and eliminate region-wide poverty, all by 2020. The criterion for poverty alleviation among the poor was set as having annual per capita net income above the current national poverty line and ensuring adequate food and clothing as well as access to compulsory education, basic medical services, and safe housing.

All local authorities and central departments studied and implemented President Xi's philosophy on poverty alleviation, supported the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, worked to targets and standards, endorsed the Party's targeted strategy, reformed and updated every aspect of poverty alleviation systems and mechanisms, and committed themselves to completing key poverty alleviation tasks.

1. Who needs help: developing the registry of poor households

In 2014, standards and procedures for identifying poor households were formulated, and local officials were sent to villages to find out the locations of the poor, the reasons for their poverty, and what it would take to lift them out of poverty. Subsequently, a dynamic review system was established to add and remove households from the register each year and compare departmental data, which has continuously improved accuracy and established a unified national poverty alleviation information system. The compilation of a registry of poor households enabled a shift in focus of poverty data in China, from villages, to households, to individuals. This precious national poverty alleviation archive provided a solid foundation from which to implement high-quality, targeted poverty alleviation policies and measures.

2. Who should provide help: assigning carefully selected officials to the villages

Beginning in 2013, carefully selected first secretaries and village work teams were dispatched to poor villages. To date, more than 3 million village first secretaries and officials have been allocated across the country, with nearly 1 million working in any given year to assist villages. Guidance on selecting and dispatching village work teams was issued, their daily management was standardized, and assessment and incentives were strengthened. Since 2018, the Party has organized annual rotational poverty alleviation training for officials in response to difficulties that they encounter. Village first secretaries and officials play a vital role in implementing poverty alleviation policies, building strong primary-level organizations, and serving the people. They see that poverty alleviation initiatives make it through the final stretch and reach the finish line.

3. How help should be offered: applying tailored policies

Targeted poverty alleviation measures have been implemented in accordance with the requirements to consider local circumstances and to tailor policies to different villages, households, and individuals.

The policy of alleviating poverty by developing local industries, with the focus on developing industries suited to local conditions, has been implemented, which led to the formation of many industries with distinct advantages in poverty-stricken areas. A microfinance policy aimed at alleviating poverty was implemented, which provided loans of more than 710 billion yuan and supported more than 15 million poor households in developing industries. The Party established sound poverty-reducing mechanisms, which have meant that more than 70% of poor households are involved in new types of business entities.

Policies have also been introduced to alleviate poverty through developing employment, including strengthening skills training, launching labor cooperation between eastern and western regions, encouraging leading enterprises to drive employment, establishing poverty alleviation workshops, and setting up public-benefit jobs. As a result, the number of poor farmers finding jobs in urban areas increased from 12.27 million in 2015 to 32.43 million in 2020.

The policy of relocating people from inhospitable areas has been carried out. A total of 35,000 resettlement areas containing 2.66 million homes have been built, and more than 9.6 million poor people who met certain conditions and wished to move have been relocated. The construction of supporting facilities, including public services, in resettlement sites has improved, and attention has been paid to providing follow-up support.

Poverty alleviation initiatives through eco-development have been implemented, with nearly 5 million hectares of farmland in poor areas converted to forests and grasslands, about 1.1 million poor people given jobs as forest wardens, and 23,000 afforestation cooperatives established to benefit both poverty alleviation and environmental protection.

Efforts have been made to develop education to fight poverty. A total of 108,000 disadvantaged compulsory education schools in poverty-stricken areas were improved; more than 8 million junior and high school graduates from poor families received vocational education and training; and key colleges and universities recruited more than 700,000 students from poverty-stricken areas. More than 37 million rural students in compulsory education are provided with nutritious meals each year, and all dropout students from poor families have been encouraged to return to school.

Policies to reduce poverty by improving healthcare have been introduced. All poor people are now covered by basic medical insurance, critical illness insurance and medical assistance subsidies, and the actual reimbursement rate of hospitalized medical expenses for the poor increased from 50% to approximately 80%, with a total of 20.24 million poor patients receiving treatment. A total of 1,007 high-level hospitals provided paired assistance to 832 hospitals in impoverished counties, and standardized construction of rural medical and health institutions in poor counties was completed.

Dilapidated houses have been renovated to reduce poverty. All aspects of rural housing in poverty-stricken areas were inspected, and the central government's average subsidy for housing improvement in rural areas increased, which meant that houses of 25.7 million poor people from 7.9 million households were renovated.

Basic social assistance guarantees have been provided. The national average subsistence allowance for rural residents has increased from 2,068 yuan per person per year in 2012 to 5,842 yuan in the third quarter of 2020, which is provided to around 17.9 million poor people. Living subsidies for disabled people facing financial difficulties and care subsidies for severely disabled people have been provided.

Projects to develop transportation to eradicate poverty have been carried out. This move has supported the construction of backbone transportation routes in poverty-stricken areas, vigorously promoted the construction of the Good Rural Roads Initiative, and newly built or rebuilt 1.1 million kilometers of rural roads in poor areas.

Water conservation has been developed to aid in the battle against poverty. Potable water has been provided to all 28.89 million people who previously did not have access to safe water. Irrigation and drainage facilities for farmland in poverty-stricken areas have been significantly upgraded, and there have been marked improvements to flood and drought prevention as well as disaster reduction capabilities.

Power supply has been improved. Electricity is now available to the whole population; the power supply reliability of rural power grids has reached 99%; and large power grids cover all county-level administrative regions nationwide.

Internet has been made available to facilitate poverty alleviation. The proportion of poor villages with fiber optic and 4G connections now exceeds 98%. Comprehensive demonstrations of e-commerce in rural areas have been extended to all poor counties across the country, and great strides have been made in developing IT infrastructure in poor areas.

Various ways have been explored and adopted to use asset proceeds, tourism, and e-commerce to help the poor. It has implemented an innovative solar energy project to fight poverty, and national solar power capacity in poor areas has reached 18.65 million kilowatts, covering 100,000 villages, providing average annual benefits worth approximately 200,000 yuan per village. This has mainly been used to establish public-benefit jobs, implement small public welfare projects, and launch a system of micro rewards and subsidies.

4. How to determine if households have exited poverty: strictly assessing poverty eradication

Standards and procedures have been drawn up for poor counties, poor villages, and poor households to exit poverty. The State Council Leading Group for Poverty Alleviation and Development has guided 22 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities in the central and western regions in formulating rolling plans for poverty alleviation as well as annual plans to prevent procrastination or impatience. Each year, a third party conducts spot checks of counties and groups reported to have been extricated from poverty to ensure accuracy. Poverty alleviation policies will remain in place for some time in counties that have shaken off poverty to ensure their stability.

5. How to achieve stability: establishing mechanisms to keep poverty at bay

A monitoring and assistance mechanism has been established to prevent poverty from returning. This involves monitoring households that have been removed from poverty but remain in a precarious position, households on the verge of poverty, and households that have experienced sharp falls in their income due to Covid-19. It also involves providing targeted assistance to prevent people from lapsing or relapsing into poverty as well as to guard against a systemic return to poverty.

6. Focusing on key points and difficulties and deepening poverty alleviation measures

The poverty alleviation campaign has targeted the "three regions" (the Tibet Autonomous Region, Tibetan ethnic areas in the four provinces of Qinghai, Sichuan, Gansu and Yunnan, and the four prefectures of Hotan, Aksu, Kashgar, and Kizilsu in southern Xinjiang) and the "three prefectures" (Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan, Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan, and Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture in Gansu) and other deeply impoverished areas that suffer from weak development foundations and entrenched poverty with increased funding, projects, and measures. Provinces and regions, meanwhile, have formulated plans to tackle ingrained problems, with all parties doing their best to fight poverty and concentrate resources on helping the poor. To ensure adequate food and clothing as well as access to compulsory education, basic medical services, and safe housing for poor rural populations, it is necessary to focus on objectives, clarify data, bring about universal solutions, and leave nobody behind. Strict supervision has been carried out to ensure completion of poverty alleviation objectives in the final year of the 13th Five-Year Plan period and victory in the fight against poverty in all localities.

7. Mobilizing extensive social forces for concerted efforts against poverty

Work has been done to utilize the socialist system's unique ability to concentrate resources to accomplish major tasks. Eastern provinces and cities and central and western provinces have carried out poverty alleviation cooperation and counterpart assistance, central agencies have launched dedicated assistance, the military is helping poor villages fight poverty, and such national organizations as trade unions, the Communist Youth League, the Women's Federation, and the China Disabled Persons' Federation have continually stepped up their assistance. Private enterprises have engaged in a campaign to provide targeted support to thousands of villages. There are plans to build a social poverty alleviation network, and social organizations and individual citizens are being encouraged to participate.

8. Investing in supervision and using funds more efficiently

The leading role of government investment has been brought to bear, with central, provincial, municipal, and county government funding for poverty alleviation reaching nearly 1.7 trillion yuan in total, and poor counties themselves allocating 1.5 trillion yuan of rural development funds toward poverty alleviation. Inter-provincial adjustments and intra-provincial transfers of funds related to the urban-rural land fluctuation index have totaled more than 440 billion yuan. The banking, insurance, and securities industries have continued to increase financial support for the fight against poverty. Approval authority for government funding of poverty alleviation has been decentralized to counties, creating a county-level poverty alleviation project database. There have been improvements to the system of informing the public of how poverty alleviation funds are spent, a crackdown on violations of discipline and law, and continuous improvements to the management and efficient use of poverty alleviation funds.

9. Strictly supervising and assessing poverty alleviation

The CPC Central Committee conducts inspections and reviews of poverty alleviation efforts, the State Council Poverty Alleviation and Development Leading Group organizes annual inspections, and China's eight other political parties also conduct supervision. Various industry departments have also strengthened their supervision. A poverty alleviation supervision and reporting helpline (12317) has been set up to expose verified problems. Assessments are carried out on the effectiveness of poverty alleviation efforts, using inter-provincial cross-assessment, third-party evaluations, performance evaluations of poverty alleviation funds, unannounced media visits, and so on. Evaluation results are, therefore, based on day-to-day working practices. With the approval of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, interviews are conducted on outstanding problems, and practical guidance is provided to overcome difficulties.

10. Strengthening publicity and guidance to foster a positive environment

A National Poverty Alleviation Award has been set up and commended a total of 128 groups and 377 individuals. In-depth reports have been released and themed publicity launched on poverty alleviation, widely publicizing advanced examples and touching stories related to poverty alleviation to communicate positivity among the public. Timely response to public opinion related to poverty has been made to address social concerns. There has been international publicity and promotion of China's poverty reduction efforts, which has spread the positive message of China's poverty alleviation.

11. Adopting effective measures to overcome Covid-19

Village first secretaries and officials who had been sent from government offices but were on holiday during the Spring Festival of 2020 quickly returned to their village posts after the outbreak of Covid-19 to tackle poverty alleviation and contain the disease. Despite a wider fall in the numbers of rural labor force nationwide, the number of poor migrant workers has increased by 10%. Efforts to reduce poverty by boosting consumption have been launched, leading to more than 300 billion yuan in total sales of poverty alleviation products. Impoverished people affected by the pandemic are being monitored and provided with the necessary assistance. After a great deal of hard work, China has effectively overcome the negative impacts of Covid-19 on its poverty alleviation efforts.

Historic achievements in poverty alleviation

All China's rural poor have been lifted above the national poverty line, and all previously impoverished counties have been removed from poverty. Absolute poverty and region-wide poverty have been eliminated in China, which has provided a solid foundation for achieving the First Centenary Goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects.

1. The living standards of China's poor have improved significantly.

Poor people in China no longer need to worry about having adequate food and clothing, and they are guaranteed access to compulsory education, basic medical services, safe housing, and potable water, significantly enhancing their feelings of fulfillment and happiness. Per capita net income of registered poor increased from 2,982 yuan in 2015 to 10,740 yuan in 2020, an average annual increase 20% higher than people in rural areas as a whole. Wage income as a proportion of operating income has increased year on year, and the proportion of transfer income has gradually fallen. As a result, quality of life has improved significantly.

2. Infrastructure in poor areas has improved dramatically.

The problems people in poor areas of China have historically encountered with roads, food and water, electricity, and communication infrastructure have been solved. All towns and villages, wherever possible, have been given access to hard roads, bus routes, and postal roads, and a number of tourist roads and "production roads" (narrow paved roads between fields) have been rebuilt. All rural areas covered by large power grids across the country are powered by electricity, and our history of drinking brackish water for thousands of years is completely over. In the past, the houses of poor people were dilapidated and empty. Nowadays, people live in pleasant dwellings that are characteristic of their local areas.

3. Public services in poor areas have improved significantly.

In poor areas, the compulsory education drop-out rate has been reduced to zero, and educational attainment and opportunities have continued to improve. People in poor areas can now receive treatment for minor illnesses in their villages and treatment for common and chronic diseases within their county, which means people no longer put off seeking treatment for minor and major illnesses due to the difficulty and expense involved. As a result, incidence of tapeworms in Qinghai and Tibet and tuberculosis in southern Xinjiang has been basically reduced to zero. The social security system in poor areas has been gradually improved, ensuring people's basic needs are met.

4. Socioeconomic development has accelerated in poor areas.

Poor areas have integrated poverty alleviation efforts with their overall economic and social development, causing industries suited to local conditions to grow, new forms of business to flourish, the environment to improve, and regional GDP to increase. Average annual growth of general public budget revenue per capita has also been higher in poor areas than the rest of the country. Cooperation on poverty alleviation between China's eastern and western regions has led to transfers of labor-intensive industries and boosted coordinated regional economy. China's 28 ethnic groups with relatively small populations have made the historic leap from poverty and backwardness to being moderately prosperous. The fight against poverty has not only benefited poor areas and poor people, but also spurred development of the entire countryside, laying a solid foundation for the overall revitalization of rural areas.

5. The spirit and appearance of poor people have changed dramatically.

In order to use development to reduce poverty, poor people who are able to work have been given help to enhance their skills, industries have been developed, and employment has been stabilized. As a result, poor people are better placed to extricate themselves from poverty. In the past, poor people often waited for handouts, but now they are empowered to improve their own circumstances. The lives of poor people in China have improved, their confidence has increased, they are happier, and their spirits have been lifted.

6. The foundations of CPC's governance in rural areas have been consolidated.

The focus on Party development to fight against poverty and carry out targeted poverty alleviation has enhanced the cohesion and effectiveness of primary-level Party organizations, and significantly improved the capabilities of primary-level officials. The collective economy has continued to develop and grow in poor villages, from almost nothing to the point that almost every village has collective income. Village first secretaries and officials have quickly become adept at tackling tough problems, and officials in charge of poverty alleviation have applied themselves diligently and passionately to practical work and solving problems for the people, leading to a closer relationship between the Party and people.

7. Valuable experience has been gained in work related to agriculture, rural areas, and rural residents as well as implementing the rural revitalization strategy.

Poverty alleviation work has involved distilling the wisdom of the whole Party and the practical experience of the people; exploring successful and effective methods of rural governance, including the management system under which the central government formulates overarching plans, provincial governments assume overall responsibility, and city and county governments take charge of implementation; Party committee secretaries at the provincial, municipal, county, township, and village levels working in coordination; establishing a registry of poor households to implement targeted policies; assigning first secretaries and officials to poverty-stricken villages; strengthening supplies of resources and factors of production; and enhancing the system for evaluating achievements in poverty alleviation. All this work plays an important role in promoting rural revitalization in the future.

8. China has made a significant contribution to reducing global poverty.

Although approximately 700 million people around the world still live in extreme poverty and the gap between the rich and the poor is increasing in many countries, China has won its battle against poverty on schedule and achieved the poverty reduction goals set out in the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development 10 years early. China's wisdom and solutions of targeted poverty alleviation and the use of development to reduce poverty that it has experimented with and created are its contribution to reducing global poverty.

China's world-renowned achievements in poverty alleviation are based on the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee led by Xi Jinping, as well as the significant strengths of the CPC's leadership and the socialist system. This has led to the following discoveries.

First, China must uphold the CPC's overall leadership and strengthen political assurances. President Xi led by example and ensured Party committee secretaries at the provincial, municipal, county, township, and village levels worked together to encourage the whole Party and all the people to strive to reduce poverty. Without the personal efforts of President Xi and the wise leadership of the CPC Central Committee, it would have been impossible to obtain such an achievement.

Second, China must leverage the strengths of its system and unite its many forces. A formidable force has been assembled to fight poverty in China: the central and western regions have assumed primary responsibility for poverty alleviation; the eastern region has offered assistance to reduce poverty; competent departments have taken responsibility for their respective sectors; Party, government, and military bodies, as well as state-owned enterprises and public institutions have provided targeted assistance to poor areas; and private enterprises, social organizations, and individual citizens have fulfilled their social responsibilities.

Third, China must continue with its policy of reform and opening up and implement targeted strategies. We adhered to goal- and problem-oriented reform to reduce poverty, which led to the strategy of targeted poverty alleviation. This involved a shift toward precise measures, as opposed to the deluge of policies that were employed previously. The process of resource allocation was also altered to make it more coordinated and concentrated. The poverty alleviation model shifted from trying to inject or transplant affluence to nurturing it, and the focus of the system for evaluating poverty reduction work changed from looking at regional GDP to assessing the effectiveness of projects. This targeted strategy not only led to the smooth implementation of poverty alleviation measures but also illuminated a path for governing the country.

Fourth, China should uphold the principal role of the people and stimulate internal momentum. We must continue to help people increase confidence in their ability to lift themselves out of poverty and ensure they have access to the education they need to do so. We must give full play to the principal role of poor people in alleviating poverty, enhance their capacity to develop themselves, stimulate internal momentum, promote industrial development, increase employment, and harness their hard work to extricate them from poverty and create a better tomorrow.

Fifth, China needs to continue to overcome obstacles and commit to its work. Full and rigorous self-governance of the Party has been implemented throughout the entire process of poverty alleviation. There has been regular supervision and inspections and the most stringent assessments and evaluations to promote quality and efficiency in all our endeavors and ensure that poverty alleviation is practical, the process well founded, and the results genuine.

Sixth, China must uphold the CPC's founding mission and shoulder its responsibilities. Organizations and officials at all levels must stay true to the Party's founding mission. The 832 impoverished counties valiantly have served as beachheads in the poverty alleviation battle, and village first secretaries and officials have bravely ventured to the frontline to provide vital assistance to secure a historic victory.

(By CPC Leadership Group of the National Administration for Rural Revitalization, originally appeared in Qiushi Journal, English edition, No. 2, 2021)

SOURCE chinadaily.com.cn
Bath is an experienced CFO with a broad skill set spanning financial and corporate management, funding, commercial management and operations.

Bath will replace Chris Knee who is stepping down from the role.

( ) (OTCMKTS:MZZMF) (FRA:MA3) has announced a new chief financial officer in Chris Bath, effective 1 June 2021, replacing Chris Knee, who will step down from the role.

Bath has more than 20 years of experience in senior financial roles within the energy and resources industries in Australia and Asia, including as CFO for companies listed on ASX, AIM and JSX.

He is a chartered accountant and member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Cape Ray diamond drilling

The company recently started its 20,000-metres diamond drilling program at the Cape Ray Gold Project in Newfoundland, Canada, which is aimed at extending the gold mineralisation footprint at known deposits while testing multiple new greenfield targets, all within 15 kilometres of existing resources.

Three holes of the program have been completed, with the first target following up on potential high-grade extensions to the Window Glass Hill deposit, which remains open along strike and at depth.
CUPERTINO, Calif., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Since early May, Sponsor a Ride has been underwriting local transportation in urban areas for at-risk Asians who feel threatened by ongoing violence-- specifically females, seniors, and the disabled. They provide free Uber, Lyft, and cab rides for individuals who meet the criteria and apply.

Now they've upgraded their Circle of Heroes-- the page on their website and social media that honors businesses, non-profits, and individuals who sponsor rides-- to provide more publicity for donors.

"People who help out should be commemorated-- a LOT!" says SAR co-founder Anna Chu Lin. "We absolutely could not do what we do without them. They should be recognized eternally for helping Asian Americans in need, especially those who are fearful of walking or using public transport nowadays in areas where Asians are routinely harassed." In practice this means that Heroes are mentioned in the group's social media and press releases.

"We strive to tell everyone on our social media accounts what Heroes have done," says another co-founder, Amy Chang. "Some of the travelers we sponsor have already been threatened or even attacked. If we can offer them a secure trip, we may very well have saved them from assault. And the Heroes who make that possible should be recognized for it."

The group emphasizes that the assistance they provide is measurable, visible, and immediate. "There are a lot of organizations you can support who do things like hold webinars on anti-AAPI violence, put on concerts, and institute anti-hate programs in elementary schools," says Chang. "We support those, but we wanted to concentrate on things that have an immediate impact on Asian-Americans' lives, right now.

"Helping a senior, student, or disabled person get to a doctor's appointment or a necessary work meeting meets that goal."

And what happens when violence against Asians decreases (if it does)? "We would love nothing better than to be put out of business!" says SAR Logistics Coordinator Soan Gunawan, "because that would mean the anti-AAPI hate crimes have gone down. But we may well decide to continue, concentrating on providing free rides for Seniors and the disabled of all races, because that will always be needed. In any case our promotion of members of the 'Circle of Heroes' will continue forever."

For information on joining the Circle of Heroes, go to sponsoraride.net.

Media Contact: Jack Toomey [email protected] (626) 230-8862

SOURCE Sponsor a Ride
CleanSpark Partners with Switzerland-Based Wind Turbine Firm to Support Microgrid, Bitcoin Operations. Tweet this

The parties are jointly marketing solutions featuring a hardware combination of FlowGen's wind turbine systems, solar, and battery energy storage systems (BESS). These solutions will be fully supported by CleanSpark's patented mPulse control platform to maximize power optimization and resiliency. FlowGen's goal is to implement cleaner renewable energy sources at sites that are currently powered by gas generators and other non-renewable energy sources.

FlowGen's innovation came from its founder and Chief Executive Officer Dirk Kuster's extensive racing history leading, among others, Porsche's GT3 race team to achieve tremendous success on the track. Through Dirk's expertise in mass production processes, coupled with an award-winning team of experts from the motorsport aerodynamics, automotive and aerospace industries, FlowGen's revolutionary design, innovative engineering, and advanced analytical tools help achieve industry leading performance levels and efficiency. Their wind turbine systems can be incorporated into microgrids around the world in combination with solar, storage and other renewables. FlowGen's technology is extremely versatile as it is powerful enough for very large installations, but its small size and low weight also enable easy installation where space is restricted. Its focus on aerodynamic efficiency also allows it to provide power in areas where sustained wind-levels are lower.

FlowGen's CEO Dirk Kuster said, "FlowGen's board of directors is very enthusiastic about this unique combination and believes it will provide value for shareholders of both companies. This agreement has significant strategic and financial benefits, and the combined companies are expected to be better positioned to anticipate and serve the needs of a global customer base in the highly competitive microgrid market."

Zach Bradford, CleanSpark's Chief Executive Officer stated, "This partnership further demonstrates the flexibility of our controls technologies. The partnership with FlowGen demonstrates mPulse's versatile capabilities with the addition of wind turbines. We believe this will expand the customer base for our offerings in areas less conducive to solar for distributed power generation solutions. Wind energy is a powerful resource that has the ability to enhance the operating characteristics of microgrids across a variety of applications. The profitability from our Bitcoin division continues to enable us to advance forward additional renewable energy sources to further improve the value of renewable energy solutions. Driving renewable energy technology advancement and adoption is key to our continued growth, and the results of these efforts are expected to positively impact all of our business units."

Parties interested in learning more about CleanSpark products and services are encouraged to inquire by contacting the Company directly at [email protected] or visiting the Company's website at www.cleanspark.com.

About CleanSpark:

CleanSpark, Inc., a Nevada corporation, is in the business of providing advanced software, controls and technology solutions to solve modern energy challenges. CleanSpark has a suite of software solutions that provides end-to-end microgrid energy modeling, energy market communications, and energy management solutions. CleanSpark's offerings consist of intelligent energy monitoring and controls, intelligent microgrid design software, middleware communications protocols for the energy industry, energy system engineering, custom hardware solutions, microgrid installation and implementation services, traditional data center services and software consulting services.

The Company and its subsidiaries also own and operate a fleet of Bitcoin miners at its facility outside of Atlanta, Georgia.

For more information about the Company, please visit the Company's website at https://www.cleanspark.com/investor-relations.

About FlowGen:

FlowGen, a swiss-based clean power company, provides turnkey microgrid solutions combining its scalable small wind turbine systems with solar and storage

Parties interested in learning more about the company's products and services are encouraged to visiting the Company's website at https://www.flowgen.com/.

Forward-Looking Statements:

This release contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding the Company's plans and expectations for expansion of its energy initiatives, deployment of miners, the growth of the facility and other statements regarding the expectations, beliefs, plans, intentions and strategies of the Company. The Company has tried to identify these forward-looking statements by using words such as "expect," "target," "anticipate," "believe," "could," "should," "estimate," "intend," "may," "will," "plan," "goal" and similar terms and phrases, but such words, terms and phrases are not the exclusive means of identifying such statements. Actual results, performance and achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements due to a variety of risks, uncertainties and other factors, including, without limitation: the successful deployment of FlowGen's wind turbine solutions for the United States and worldwide applications, the fitness of the FlowGen's wind turbine solutions for this particular application or market, delays in equipment and products availability and delivery, the successful deployment of energy solutions for residential and commercial applications, the fitness of the Company's energy hardware, software and other solutions for this particular application or market, the expectations of future revenue growth may not be realized, ongoing demand for the Company's software products and related services, the impact of global pandemics (including COVID-19) on the demand for our products and services; and other risks described in the Company's prior press releases and in its filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent filings with the SEC. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof, and we undertake no obligation to revise or update this press release (including any forward-looking statements contained herein) to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof.

Contact - Investor Relations:

CleanSpark, Inc.

Investor Relations

(801)-244-4405

SOURCE CleanSpark, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.cleanspark.com


NEW YORK, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Cohen & Steers MLP Income and Energy Opportunity Fund, Inc. (NYSE: MIE; the "Fund"), announced today at the special meeting of stockholders that it has adjourned the meeting of stockholders until June 30, 2021 at 10:00 AM Eastern Time. The adjournment will allow additional time to solicit votes on the proposal to liquidate and dissolve the Fund.

Website: https://www.cohenandsteers.com/

Symbol: (NYSE: CNS)

About Cohen & Steers. Cohen & Steers is a leading global investment manager specializing in real assets and alternative income, including real estate, preferred securities, infrastructure, resource equities, commodities, as well as multi-strategy solutions. Founded in 1986, the firm is headquartered in New York City, with offices in London, Dublin, Hong Kong and Tokyo.

Additional Information about the Fund and the Liquidation

This press release is for informational purposes only and is not intended to, and does not, constitute an offer to purchase or sell shares of the Fund.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release and other statements that Cohen & Steers may make 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, which reflect the company's current views with respect to, among other things, its operations and financial performance. You can identify these forward-looking statements by the use of words such as "outlook," "believes," "expects," "potential," "continues," "may," "will," "should," "seeks," "approximately," "predicts," "intends," "plans," "estimates," "anticipates," or the negative versions of these words or other comparable words. Such forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties.

Accordingly, there are or will be important factors that could cause actual outcomes or results to differ materially from those indicated in these statements. 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.

SOURCE Cohen & Steers, Inc.

Related Links

https://www.cohenandsteers.com/


LAFAYETTE, Colo., May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Colorado Biolabs, Inc. (CBL) and MFB Fertility, Inc. (MFB) are pleased to announce a strategic alliance granting MFB Fertility US distribution rights to Proferrin Heme Iron Polypeptide, a unique form of iron, for future Proov brand products.

"As the leader in urine PdG testing to confirm ovulation, we believe MFB Fertility has a great track record of bringing innovative products to market. We look forward to helping their group bring a highly effective iron supplement to Proov customers" says Colorado Biolabs CEO Adam Kashenberg.

Amy Beckley, Founder and CEO of MFB Fertility, added "this partnership allows us to continue our mission as a woman led company to provide the most relevant products for women in addition to our ovulation tests and PdG tests"

CBL's Proferrin brand HIP has demonstrated the ability to increase serum iron up to 23x greater than does a traditional iron salt on a mg. per mg. basis.[1] This allows for excellent iron supplementation using far less iron, leading to a stellar GI side effect profile. Additionally, HIP absorption does not require acidification via addition of Vitamin C. This fact is important because co-administration of Iron and Vitamin C have been associated with oxidative stress in the gastric mucosa, which can lead to ulceration. [2]

Proferrin brand HIP is manufactured in the United States by Colorado Biolabs, Inc. and Proferrin iron supplements were introduced into the U.S market in 2001. Proferrin is available in the US, Canada, UAE, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines.

MFB Fertility Inc. launched Proov in 2018. Its FDA-approved at-home test measures the presence of progesterone metabolite PdG in urine to help a woman confirm ovulation; low progesterone is the number one cause of infertility and preventable miscarriage. Proov is available at Target, Amazon, and at http://www.Proovtest.com

For more information about Proferrin and Colorado Biolabs, Inc., visit http://www.proferrin.com.

To learn more about MFB Fertility, please visit https://proovtest.com

1  Seligman, P.A., et al, Nutrition Research, 2000. 20(9):1279-86.

2  Fisher, A. EO and Naughton, D.P., Nutrition Journal 2004, 3:2

SOURCE Colorado Biolabs

Related Links

https://proferrin.com


CONCORD, Ohio, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Dolbey's Fusion CAC ranked #1 Best in KLAS in the February 2021 KLAS Research healthcare software satisfaction report. On April 29, 2021, KLAS Research released a Premium Report titled "Computer-Assisted Coding 2021, Which Vendors Best Meet Needs in the Face of COVID-19?" In this latest Premium Report, KLAS Research surveyed customers of Dolbey, 3M and Optum.

Regarding software updates and upgrades, including ongoing updates related to COVID-19, Dolbey scored highest with customers, highlighting Dolbey as strong at focusing on coder productivity, delivery of new technology and quality of implementation.

The KLAS report also highlighted customers placing Dolbey higher in service and support, scoring highest as proactive and Dolbey as least likely to "nickel-and-dime" customers. They also praised Dolbey for waiving fees for additional beds used and helping customers prioritize the review of COVID-related charts. "Being recognized twice in the same year by KLAS is a tremendous honor and an indication that we view our customers as partners toward mutual success," states Heather Gladden, CAC Product Manager for Dolbey. "Like healthcare everywhere, our customers were hit hard by the pandemic and we are so grateful for their willingness to help us implement the updates and features they needed to meet the demand."

Computer-assisted coding software reads medical charts documenting patient care and suggests medical billing codes to increase productivity and improve accuracy. Dolbey's Fusion CAC uses advanced Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to make these code suggestions as well as to highlight other data toward the goal of the highest-quality documentation of patient care.

About Dolbey

Dolbey's award-winning healthcare suite of solutions improves productivity while delivering better documentation which improves patient care. Since 1914, Dolbey has consistently evolved its products, incorporating the latest technologies available to meet the demands of the healthcare community. Today, our suite of products includes Speech Recognition (premise or cloud-based), CAPD, CDI, CAC, Transcription and Dictation.

About KLAS

KLAS is a research and insights firm on a global mission to improve healthcare delivery by amplifying the provider's voice. Working with thousands of healthcare professionals and clinicians, KLAS gathers data and insights on software, services and medical equipment to deliver timely reports, trends and statistical overviews. The research directly represents the provider voice and acts as a catalyst for improving vendor performance. Follow KLAS on Twitter at www.twitter.com/KLASresearch.

For further information, please contact:

Traci Miller, Marketing Director

800-878-7828 x119/[email protected]

www.dolbey.com

Related Images

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Dolbey

Dolbey Logo

SOURCE Dolbey
SAN MATEO, Calif., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Following March's launch of the Draper Innovation Index (DII) Global where new data identified the most promising environments for innovative businesses globally, today, the Draper Hero Institute announced their DII US that compares US states by a variety of metrics and indicators.

"People are mobile. There is a reason why so many startups are moving from California to Texas, Washington and Florida," said Tim Draper, Founder of the Draper Hero Institute. "Our new US innovation index aggregates a variety of metrics and indicators including: freedom vs regulations (5G, banking, insurance, historical); venture capital investment and trends; capital gains top tax rate; strength of the tech workforce; strength of education; demographics trends; and high tech employment, in order to assess each state's ability to support startup creation and success. The DII US will provide a vital resource for businesses, VC's and state governments to assess their economic vitality."

The economic recovery from COVID-19 offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for states to attract entrepreneurs and investors, especially in the context of a dramatically changing workplace. Remote work's now mainstream status, for instance, opens up the competition for tech workers and startups to every single state, not just traditional tech powerhouses.

"The ability to drill-down and understand the Draper Innovation Index at a more granular sub-national level is essential to understanding which states could be a good environment for innovation and economic investment," said Salim Sawaya, Lead for location intelligence technology provider Esri's Nonprofit & Global Organizations Team. "Esri and our partner Blue Raster continue to support the Draper Hero Institute find and use authoritative datasets for their US states index so that investors and innovators can leverage the power of location intelligence through GIS to identify the states that hold the most potential or promise."

The DII US includes three major scenarios: Balanced, Tech Innovation Environment and Regulatory and Tax Environment. These scenarios weight six sub-indices, providing a look at state performance in a variety of categories.

For example, California, the long-time leader in US innovation and entrepreneurship is still a major force, but others are catching up in this category and have surpassed the state on the other important DII ranking components. Silicon Valley has long driven high-tech employment, innovation and entrepreneurship, giving the state a significant foothold in our Tech Innovation Environment scenario. Massachusetts can thank its world-renown academic and research institutions such as Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for its second place ranking while Washington's continued tech employment growth  34 percent over the past 10 years  and history as the birthplace for major tech organizations including Microsoft and Amazon helped edge it into third place.

"One key takeaway is just how much the innovation and entrepreneurship climate varies from state to state. In order to remain relevant in an increasingly competitive market for talent, employers and capital investment, states need to know just how they stack up against their neighbors and rivals ," said Dr. Wallace Walrod DHI's Chief Economic Advisor. "The DII US allows for these comparisons in multiple areas, such as small business policy and tax environment."

About Draper Hero Institute

Founded by legendary Silicon Valley venture capitalist and entrepreneur Timothy C. Draper, Draper Hero Institute (DHI) provides applicable and modern resources for future entrepreneurs globally and ensures inclusiveness and opportunities for all. As an action-based research institution, DHI focuses its efforts on non-traditional pathways to guide future entrepreneurs in the new economy. Through programs that ignite innovative research; united through connectivity and networking; and mentoring efforts through applied education, DHI provides a portal for creative thinking and ultimately driving change to better prepare future entrepreneurs to take on heroic endeavors.

https://www.draperhero.org/

About ESRI

Esri, the global market leader in geographic information system (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping, helps customers unlock the full potential of data to improve operational and business results. Founded in 1969 in Redlands, California, USA, Esri software is deployed in more than 350,000 organizations globally and in over 200,000 institutions in the Americas, Asia and the Pacific, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, nonprofits, and universities. Esri has regional offices, international distributors, and partners providing local support in over 100 countries on six continents. With its pioneering commitment to geospatial information technology, Esri engineers the most innovative solutions for digital transformation, the Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced analytics.

https://esri.com

SOURCE Draper Hero Institute
ELIZABETHTOWN, Pa., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Elizabethtown College recently received a $6.5 million gift from the estate of alumnus Jay A. Izenour '72, to endow the Jay A. Izenour and Karen L. Izenour Endowed Scholarship Fund. The Izenour gift is the second-largest ever to be received in the College's history.

"We are sincerely grateful for the generosity of this gift," Elizabethtown College President Cecilia M. McCormick, J.D. said. "This gift will make an incredible difference for our students, one they will treasure and benefit from throughout their lives. It will serve to witness our institution's mission to Educate for Service and provide an example of helping others."

Jay Izenour, a member of the Elizabethtown College Class of 1972, served as a businessman working out of the southcentral Pennsylvania area until he retired. Izenour passed away in December 2020, and his wife, Karen, predeceased him.

"A gift like this is life-changing as it helps to improve affordability for students to attend an exceptional institution like Elizabethtown College," McCormick said. "We feel very fortunate that the Izenour's held the importance of education, the College, and our students in such high regard. We will steward their gift with an abundance of care to bring to fruition the intention of this family."

The Izenour Fund will be utilized to provide need-based scholarships for full-time, degree-seeking students at Elizabethtown College. Eligible students will be required to maintain a set grade point average in order to receive the scholarship.

Elizabethtown College was gifted an anonymous $8.5 million in 2019 which stands as the largest gift ever received in the College's history. Read more at etown.edu.

About Elizabethtown College

Elizabethtown College, located in southcentral Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, is a private coed institution offering more than 50 health, science, engineering, political science business, communications, fine art and music, and education degrees. Discover more: etown.edu.

Contact:

Keri Straub

Executive Director of Marketing and Communications

Elizabethtown College

(717) 725-6907

[email protected]

SOURCE Elizabethtown College

Related Links

http://www.etown.edu


DALLAS, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Employer Direct Healthcare ("EDH"), the leading solution in the surgical benefit industry, announced today its partnership with 2nd.MD, the leader in expert medical opinion services. Under the partnership, current and prospective clients of EDH's SurgeryPlus offering will have access to 2nd.MD's groundbreaking digital platform for interactive expert medical opinion consultations.

The benefits of this partnership are significant and represent a unique solution set  not yet available in the industry. Participating SurgeryPlus clients will be able to easily add the 2nd.MD service with contractual and pricing arrangements, streamlined implementation, and fully integrated operational and referral processes.

John Zutter, EDH CEO, explains that, "At Employer Direct Healthcare, we look to be a force of positive change in healthcare, focusing on quality of care, outcomes and patient experience, and fair prices. Our partnership with 2nd.MD is particularly exciting for us; we can now offer our members an even more robust service delivery model that includes the ability to consult with a board-certified specialist virtually when necessary. This is truly a win-win for everyone."

Kristin Herrera, senior vice president and general manager, 2nd.MD, states, "2nd.MD's mission is to save and improve lives every day and connect anyone battling pain or disease with the best healthcare resources the world has to offer. Our partnership with EDH is a direct result of that objective; whether seeking treatment confirmation for peace of mind, or top-quality surgical care at fair prices, participating members will have a cohesive and quality-focused set of solutions."

This service partnership becomes immediately available to EDH's clients and the service can be added quickly, generally in 90 days or less. Both EDH and 2nd.MD services will continue to be available on a stand-alone basis and through other channel partnerships.

About Employer Direct Healthcare and SurgeryPlus

Employer Direct Healthcare is a market-leading health care services business providing high-quality and cost-efficient solutions for self-funded employers and their members. The company's core product, the SurgeryPlus benefit, provides full-service surgical concierge and network services to nearly two million covered members. The company helps members access quality providers, helping employers and their plan participants dramatically reduce surgical costs while providing the most desirable outcomes for members. To learn more about Employer Direct Healthcare | SurgeryPlus, please visit www.edhc.com.

About 2nd MD

2nd.MD is the leader in expert medical opinion. A preferred partner to over 300 employers and the country's top health plans, 2nd.MD connects more than 7 million people to over 900 nationally recognized, board-certified medical specialists covering all adult and pediatric specialty conditions. Providing a world-class member experience and consistently achieving a +91 Net Promoter Score, 2nd.MD combines advanced technology, data, and clinical expertise to save and improve lives every day. For more information, please visit 2nd.MD or follow @2nd.MD on LinkedIn. In March 2021, Accolade acquired 2nd.MD. For more information, visit https://accolade.com/solutions/expert-medical-opinion/. Follow Accolade on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and at Accolade.com.

Media Contact:

Jackson Vickery

[email protected]

SOURCE Employer Direct Healthcare

Related Links

http://www.edhc.com


OKLAHOMA CITY, May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Epic Youth Services (EYS) and Epic Charter Schools have mutually agreed to end their ten-year contractual relationship effective June 30. EYS is the private company that has been the management organization providing support and services to Epic Charter Schools since its inception in 2011.

Ben Harris and David Chaney, who co-founded both the school and the management company, released the following statement regarding the agreement:

"Starting this school, watching it grow and flourish, and seeing the profound and positive impact it has on students has been the honor of a lifetime. We could not be prouder of our student body, our talented and hardworking teachers, or our administrators and staff.

"Over the last ten years, virtual education has transitioned from a small niche to an essential option that now exists in all 77 Oklahoma counties. That growth is nothing short of a revolution in public education, and it is one that has benefitted tens of thousands of families seeking safe, high-quality educational experiences that can be customized to their unique needs and expectations. None of that would have been possible without Epic, EYS, and especially the tens of thousands of families that have trusted us with their children."

"At this time, we feel it is best for EYS and Epic to pause our professional relationship and to give each entity a chance to determine how to best serve families moving forward in light of the recent settlement agreement. While this is a sad and difficult decision for us, we believe it is in the best interests of EYS and, most importantly, the 50,000 plus students Epic Charter Schools and EYS currently serve."

Media Contact: Alex Weintz; 914.282.3229; [email protected]

SOURCE Epic Youth Services
SINGAPORE, May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Esco Lifesciences ("Esco" , the "Company") announced today the close of an over-subscribed US$200 million Series A and Crossover round. The financing was led by Vivo Capital and Novo Holdings A/S, with participation from new investors including China Investment Corporation, Singapore-based global investor EDBI, a reputable, long-term institutional investor, and other sophisticated investors.

XQ Lin, Chairman and CEO of Esco Lifesciences, commented, "We are pleased to welcome these truly global top tier life sciences investors from the US, Europe, China and Singapore. This is a significant milestone for the Company as we embark on our Esco 3.0 transformation, which primarily involves strategic bolt-on M&A and expedited expansion in China, our priority market, to maintain the strong revenue growth we have achieved over the last decade. This financing will enable the creation of an innovation hub in Boston, focused on cell and gene therapy tools and technologies. We will increase our R&D and in-licensing efforts to develop and commercialise novel life science research tools in emerging domains, thus enabling fundamental scientific discoveries and, ultimately, the diagnostics and medicines of tomorrow."

Esco Lifesciences, a leading provider of life sciences tools and services, is poised to benefit from the sustained growth of the healthcare and biopharma industries in Asia and globally. Esco has achieved leadership in China, and globally, in multiple product categories within some of the fastest-growing market segments with China being its largest and fastest-growing market. As a Singapore-headquartered company, Esco is a nexus of East and West, bridging technologies, products, and talent across the world, with global operations spanning the US, Europe and Asia.

Shan Fu, Managing Partner and CEO of Greater China for Vivo Capital, and incoming Esco board member, commented, "Vivo Capital has been deeply impressed with the management team's energy, execution capabilities, and global vision. We are thrilled to lead this private investment in Esco alongside top-tier global institutional investors such as Novo Holdings and EDBI. The investor consortium will work together to leverage our healthcare sector resources to accelerate Esco's next phase of global growth, supporting the Company's business development efforts, and increasing investments in R&D and technology development. We hope to facilitate Esco's global expansion and to elevate Esco into an Asian global life science industry leader, to fulfill its mission of improving lives through science."

Kasim Kutay, CEO of Novo Holdings, said, "As a long term, global, life sciences investor, Novo Holdings is delighted to be partnering with the like-minded team at Esco. The opportunities for growth and expansion at Esco are significant and we look forward to bringing to bear our patient capital and life science expertise to the realisation of the Company's strategy." Amit Kakar, Senior Partner, Head of Novo Holdings Asia, and incoming Esco board member, added, "Novo Holdings established its Asia presence with the opening of its Singapore office in January of this year and our investment in Esco is a very important milestone in the development of our regional ambitions."

About Esco Lifesciences

Esco Lifesciences provides enabling technologies, products and services to the life sciences and healthcare industries, supporting academic research and scientific discoveries, clinical practice, as well as biopharmaceutical R&D and manufacturing. Headquartered in Singapore, Esco has an extensive sales network in over 100 countries, direct sales and service offices in over 20 countries, 8 manufacturing and R&D hubs in the US, Europe, the UK, China, Singapore, and over 1300 employees worldwide.

About Vivo Capital

Founded in 1996, Vivo Capital is a leading global healthcare investment firm with a diverse, multi-fund investment platform in venture capital, growth equity, buyout, and public equities. The Firm has approximately $5.8 billion in assets under management and has invested in over 290 public and private companies worldwide. Headquartered in Palo Alto, California, the Vivo team consists of more than 50 multi-disciplinary professionals. Vivo invests broadly in healthcare across all fund strategies, including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and healthcare services, with a focus on the largest healthcare markets globally.

About Novo Holdings

Novo Holdings is recognized as a leading life science investor with a focus on creating long-term value. As a life sciences investor, Novo Holdings provides seed and venture capital to development-stage companies and takes significant ownership positions in growth and well-established companies. Novo Holdings also manages a broad portfolio of diversified financial assets. For more information: https://www.novoholdings.dk/

SOURCE Esco Lifesciences Group Ltd

Related Links

https://group.escolifesciences.com/


First-mover advantage in the plant-based e-commerce space

A growing network of digitized brick-and-mortar retail outlets

Proven management team

What PlantX Life does:

PlantX Life Inc ( ) ( ) ( ) is spearheading the movement towards a plant-based lifestyle.

The Vancouver-based company styles itself as the digital face of the plant-based community with a one-stop destination for all things plant-based, like an online shop and meal delivery services. The online shop houses over 5,000 vegan products, and its recently-added meal service delivers chef-created dishes straight to the doors of western Canada. All in all, the company offers more than 10,000 plant-based products.

In addition to offering meal and indoor plant deliveries, PlantX currently has plans to expand its product lines to include cosmetics, clothing, and its own water brand. It also offers a restaurant directory, unique recipes and a community forum to share plant-based ideas with other like-minded individuals.

The company also operates its wholly-owned Bloomboxclub Limited subsidiary, an e-commerce company based in the UK that sells and delivers indoor plants and plant accessories to its established wellness community. PlantX said Bloomboxclub achieved gross revenue of $2,193,084 during the five-month period ending March 31, 2021, a 273% year-over-year increase.

As well, the company operates fully digitized brick and mortar retail stores in California and British Columbia, where customers scan QR codes of products and pay for everything via smartphone or tablet.

Founded by entrepreneur Sean Dollinger and led by CEO Julia Frank, PlantXs experienced executive team is supported by both business and medical advisory teams to guide the companys strategic objectives.

How it is doing:

PlantX has been active in its growth phase thus far in 2021.

In May, PlantX began selling the first set of its products online on Hudson's Bay Marketplace. Its initial items include indoor house plants as well as cosmetics and personal care products by its partner Nootka & Sea, but the company said it intends to expand its Hudson's Bay Marketplace offerings to more than 2,000 PlantX products.

Earlier in the month, PlantX launched its new PlantX warehouse in Squamish, British Columbia, which the company said is a critical component of its expansion plans and will be used to support its supply chain for the distribution of indoor plants across Canada. The 3,000-square-foot warehouse facility is a partnership initiative between PlantX and Nootka & Sea, a privately-held company that carries on the business of apothecary and cosmetics in British Columbia.

Previously, the company reported the opening of its first Canadian brick-and-mortar store under the PlantX brand in Squamish. PlantX said since acquiring PlantX Living Squamish Inc on January 7, 2021, it has realized year-over-year revenue increases of 62% in January, 34% in February, 127% in March, and 119% in April.

Also in May, the company announced an agreement to acquire, through its wholly-owned PlantX Lifestyle USA Inc subsidiary, Matthew Kenney Cuisine Global LLC's California-based Plant-Based Deli LLC (New Deli) for a purchase price of about US$1.6 million.

New Deli, with its retail outlet located in Venice Beach, California, is a sustainable and plant-based neighborhood bodega offering retail goods that range from household supplies and personal hygiene products to frozen foods, pantry staples, snacks, beer, and wine.

PlantX noted that New Deli has experienced year-over-year sequential growth in revenue and profitability, including a 1.75 times increase in gross revenue based on 1Q 2021 annualized compared to year-end 2019. The US$1.6 million purchase price for New Deli will consist of US$470,999.70 in cash plus 2,515,983 PlantX common shares issued at C$0.53 per share.

Following the acquisition, the company said it plans to launch its newly-rebranded New Deli by PlantX brick-and-mortar stores globally while continuing to focus on e-commerce expansion and growth through online operations across North America.

Meanwhile, in April, the company announced a deal to buy privately-held Little West LLC, a cold-pressed juice maker based in California, in an all-stock transaction that would involve issuing 6,703,158 PlantX Life shares in quarterly installments over a 15-month period.

Little West's health and wellness products are distributed throughout California in well-known Fortune 500 company corporate headquarters, coffee shops, restaurants, grocery stores and hotels. The company said it expects the acquisition to accelerate its strategic growth in the US market.

On the financial front, PlantX reported record gross revenue of $2,042,450 for the month of April 2021, a 30% increase from March and an 87% increase since January.

Inflection points:

International distribution into Europe and Israel

Further expansion into the US

Additional Merger & Acquisition opportunities

What the boss says:

Commenting on the companys acquisition of California-based New Deli, PlantX Life CEO Julia Frank said in a statement: This new acquisition strengthens PlantX's position as a leading plant-based company, while facilitating the company's physical and e-commerce expansion across North America.

Frank added: In addition to e-commerce, PlantX has always believed that an interactive one-stop-shop that consumers interested in plant-based living could visit, should be accessible throughout the United States and Canada  a void that New Deli by PlantX plans to fill.

Contact Sean at sean@proactiveinvestors.com
The idea for Bushwacker Spirits came to Michael Smith and Carter Echols in 2019 while vacationing in Apalachicola, FL, with their families. As they were creating their home-made version, with the multiple ingredients and steps it required, Smith suggested they should bottle their version to simplify the process. Echols concurred and many test-tasting trials later, they finalized their concoction of Caribbean rum, natural coconut, Wisconsin dairy cream, coffee and chocolate.

With the Bushwacker recipe perfected and the bottle design chosen, the Covid-19 pandemic hit in early 2020, throwing the business plan temporarily off course. They were advised to halt production and ride out the storm, but instead, they chose to keep going and grow it grass-roots style. Smith and Echols produced their first official Bushwacker bottle on May 5, 2020 and began sending samples to distribution representatives. Two major companies picked it up immediately in northern Florida and Tennessee, and Alabama soon followed, landing Bushwacker in more than 300 stores in their first year of operation. "A few distributors tasted Bushwacker and immediately told us they loved it," said Smith and Echols. "That's when we knew we had something special."

Bushwacker Spirits recently expanded throughout the entire state of Florida, increasing its total store count to almost 600. More southern states will be announced throughout 2021, as well as the Midwest.

Bushwacker is 17% alcohol by volume and available in a beautiful 750mL bottle at fine wine and spirit retailers across Alabama, Florida, and Tennessee. Bushwacker is ready to serve straight out of the bottle, but it is also recommended in a delicious recipe:

BUSHWACKER MILKSHAKE:

Ingredients:

4 large scoops of vanilla ice cream

1/4 cup Bushwacker

1/4 cup whole milk

Whipped cream

Chocolate syrup

Maraschino cherries

Method:

In a blender, combine ice cream, milk and Bushwacker and blend until desired consistency. Pour into glass and garnish with whipped cream, chocolate syrup and a Maraschino cherry

ABOUT BUSHWACKER SPIRITS:

Lifelong friends Carter Echols and Michael Smith launched Bushwacker Spirits in May 2020 out of their office in Sarasota, FL. Inspired by their love of the classic beach cocktail and the beautiful Gulf Coast, the rum-based cocktail was created to be poured directly over ice or blended into cocktail recipes. Bushwacker is currently available in 600 stores in Alabama, Florida and Tennessee, with more on the horizon. Please enjoy responsibly!

For more information on Bushwacker:

www.bushwackerspirits.com

Follow along:

Facebook @ DrinkBushwacker ,

Instagram @bushwackerspirits , and Twitter @ DrinkBushwacker .

For Bushwacker store locations in Alabama, Florida & Tennessee, CLICK HERE

SOURCE Bushwacker Spirits

Related Links

http://www.bushwackerspirits.com


NEWTOWN, Pa., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Micro Interventional Devices (MID) has received Breakthrough Device Designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its MIA-T Percutaneous Tricuspid Annuloplasty System. The MIA-T system treats moderate-severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) via a 12F catheter-based system.

MID develops proprietary Transcatheter Cardiac Repair (TCR) technologies addressing unmet needs in the treatment of structural heart disease. The company's products are designed to achieve surgical efficacy with percutaneous safety.

The safety and performance of MIA-T has been demonstrated in the STTAR, Study of Transcatheter Tricuspid Annular Repair, conducted at 6 European clinical sites. The encouraging 12-month follow up data was submitted for CE Mark approval in December 2020. The company anticipates receiving both CE Mark approval and IDE approval to initiate the STTAR-US pivotal study by the end of 2021. Publication of the STTAR data is also pending.

"Significant two and three grade reductions in tricuspid regurgitation (TR) have been achieved acutely and maintained at 12-month follow-up with no reported incidence of device or procedure-related mortality, stroke or myocardial infarction," stated Michael Whitman, President and CEO of MID. "The reductions in TR achieved have significantly improved the quality of life for these patients, resulting in an average improvement of 36% from baseline on the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire."

Breakthrough device designation will allow MID to have more frequent and timely interactions with FDA, including "sprint discussions," support on data development plans, and regular status updates via teleconferences and face-to-face meetings to expedite the clinical trial process as the company shifts its focus towards a US-based clinical trial.

"There is growing interest in the percutaneous treatment of tricuspid regurgitation as early clinical data for catheter-based technologies show promise for improving the quality of life in patients with severe TR," stated Mathew Williams, MD, Chief, Division of Adult Cardiac Surgery and Director, CVI Structural Heart Disease Program at NYU Langone Medical Center. "MIA-T appears to have advantages in treating a broad range of patients and in overall ease of use. I am encouraged by the results of the European STTAR study and am excited for the US IDE approval."

"The relative simplicity, safety and security of the MIA-T system will help many patients suffering from moderate-severe tricuspid regurgitation in the United States," Michael Whitman, continued. "Over 1.6 million people in the US alone suffer from TR and only 8,000 receive surgical treatment today.* We expect that breakthrough device designation will speed the process to commercialization so patients, physicians and the healthcare system can benefit from this technology."

*Data on File

About Micro Interventional Devices, Inc. (MID):

MID is a leader in Transcatheter Cardiac Repair (TCR) utilizing its proprietary percutaneous compliant fixation technology that emulates open surgical procedures addressing structural diseases of the heart.

MIA-T utilizes proprietary, compliant PolyCor anchors, the world's first low mass polymeric implant designed to comply with normal physiological valvular function. The MIA-T implant is engineered to plicate and comply with cardiac tissue once deployed.

MID is a privately held medical device company developing minimally invasive solutions for structural heart disease. MID's primary focus is repairing the tricuspid and mitral valves while the heart is beating, eliminating the need for cardiopulmonary bypass surgery.

Company Contact:

Micro Interventional Devices, Inc.

Katherine Whitman

Director of Marketing

215 600 1270

[email protected]

www.microinterventional.com

SOURCE Micro Interventional Devices, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.microinterventional.com


SAN DIEGO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- NeuraLace Medical, Inc., a medical device company focused on improving pain relief among patients suffering from debilitating chronic nerve pain, announced today that the first patient has been enrolled as part of the AXON-RCT U.S. study: a prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial comparing the safety and effectiveness of Axon Therapy for post-traumatic peripheral neuropathic pain to conventional medical management. The Primary Investigator of the study will be Dr. Leonardo Kapural of the Carolinas Pain Institute.

"We are incredibly excited to start our Axon-RCT study with Dr. Kapural's team to begin testing Axon Therapy on patients that suffer from chronic peripheral nerve pain," said Shiv Shukla, Founder and CEO of NeuraLace Medical. "We believe Axon Therapy has the potential to dramatically improve the lives of these patients by providing sustainable relief without the use of opioids."

The study will begin at two separate clinical sites: Dr. Kapural's clinic, Carolinas Pain Institute, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and with Dr. Dawood Sayed at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas. "Many of the current treatment options for chronic nerve pain patients provide minimal relief." said Dr. Kapural of the Carolinas Pain Institute, "Previous studies of NeuraLace's Axon Therapy device suggest it is the first to provide substantial pain relief in patients with chronic nerve pain while avoiding the side effects that can occur with gabapentinoids and opioids. We look forward to testing the device in our patients. Since it is non-invasive and non-addictive, the therapy could represent a significant advancement in the field of chronic pain management."

ABOUT AXON THERAPY

Axon Therapy delivers focused magnetic pulses which activate the damaged peripheral nerve axons that are required to provide relief from chronic nerve pain. The Axon Therapy coil, connected to a compact stimulation module, produces strong magnetic pulses near the injured nerve during the course of the treatment. NeuraLace's patented low frequency waveform leverages the principles of electromagnetic induction to create a voltage differential that elicits neuronal stimulation in the axon of the damaged nerve resulting in pain relief. Current forms of neuromodulation focus on masking the transmission of pain signals to the brain, whereas Axon Therapy seeks to suppress the pain signal by re-activating the body's natural modulatory mechanism which is disrupted, and often dormant, after traumatic injury to the nerve. In the United States, Axon Therapy is limited by federal law to investigational use only and is not available for commercial use.

ABOUT THE CLINICAL STUDY

The primary objective of the NeuraLace clinical trial is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the Axon Therapy device for post-traumatic peripheral neuropathic pain. Sample size is estimated at 126 subjects. Subjects will be enrolled in the study for 12 months. Baseline measures will be obtained and subjects will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 fashion to receive either Axon Therapy with Conventional Medical Management (CMM) or CMM alone. Pain scores will be assessed using the VAS scale at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months. Additionally, opioid-sparing and pharmacoeconomic benefits will be measured along with changes in activities of daily living (ADLs) as secondary and tertiary endpoints.

ABOUT NEURALACE MEDICAL, INC.

Privately held NeuraLace Medical, Inc., headquartered in San Diego, Calif., is committed to leading the charge in non-invasive chronic pain management and sustainable relief. Our mission to end chronic pain inspired us to develop Axon Therapy, with the goal of being the first non-invasive, non-addictive way to effectively treat chronic nerve pain.

Axon Therapy and the NeuraLace logo are trademarks of NeuraLace Medical, Inc.

Axon Therapy is an investigational device, limited by Federal (or United States) law to investigational use.

Inquiries: [email protected] or 858-232-0779.

Follow NeuraLace on LinkedIn and Twitter at @Neuralace.

www.neuralacemedical.com

SOURCE Neuralace Medical, Inc.

Related Links

https://www.neuralacemedical.com


" Malama means 'to care for,' and this program is perfect for guests that are not only interested in leaving Maui a better place than when they arrived but also finding a deep meaningful connection to this very special place we call home," says Four Seasons Resort Cultural Ambassador " Aunty Wendy " Tuivaioge.

Lahaina Restoration Foundation is a nonprofit organization with the mission to restore, preserve and protect the physical, historical and cultural legacies of Maui, and honor the era of the Hawaiian Monarchy. Guests will embark on a three-hour discovery of Maui's history through measuring, describing and/or transcribing historic artifacts and documents from all eras of Maui's past, including Kingdom of Hawaii, Missionary, Whaling and Sugar periods. The experience includes a brief training session, work with historic objects, and a tour of a historic site or museum customized for the guest's interest.

Lahaina Restoration Foundation Deputy Executive Director Kimberly Flook says, "We are excited to offer a chance for guests to connect with Lahaina Restoration Foundation and to assist in the important work of museum collections care. By volunteering through the Resort's Malama Hawaii program, we will be able to further open the door to the past and bring more of Maui's unique stories to a broader audience."

The Resort originally launched the initiative upon reopening its doors in November 2020, in collaboration with Pacific Whale Foundation, as part of the state's Malama Hawaii program. Guests who volunteer for shoreline debris monitoring and clean-up work receive the same reward of a resort credit and future one-night accommodation.

Over the duration of the program's first six months, thousands of pieces of debris have been documented and discarded by the Resort's guest volunteers. "Four Seasons Maui has helped to bring engaged visitors to the island that are providing valuable community science work," says Pacific Whale Foundation Conservation Advocate Shelby Serra. "Guests are both removing the immediate threat of marine debris from our shorelines, while contributing valuable data that helps Pacific Whale Foundation mitigate the threat to whales, dolphins and all marine life."

Resort guests who are interested in participating in the Malama Hawaii program may contact the Concierge via email at [email protected] for more information.

About Four Seasons Resort Maui: Maui's legendary Forbes Five-Star resort is nestled on 15 acres of the breathtaking Wailea Coast. The 383-room oceanfront property is world-renowned for its comfortable opulence, impeccable service, luxurious amenities, and for living in harmony with its environment and community. The resort in Maui is also home to one of the nation's top-rated spas committed to wellness and three of Hawaii's most acclaimed restaurantsFerraro's Bar e Ristorante, Spago Maui and DUO Steak and Seafood. This sophisticated home away from home caters to the needs and interests of all generationsoffering world-class outdoor adventures and one-of-a-kind Unforgettable Experiences, cultural activities, a museum-quality art collection, three pools overlooking the azure-blue Pacific Ocean including an adults-only Serenity Pool with exclusive Missoni-designed cabanas, and more. Four Seasons Resort Maui, a Hawaiian vacation destination geared to action adventurers, those guests wishing to practice the fine art of doing nothing at all, and everyone in between.

SOURCE Four Seasons Resort Maui

Related Links

www.fourseasons.com


SAN MATEO, Calif. and CHATTANOOGA, Tenn., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Turvo, provider of the world's leading collaboration application for the supply chain, announced a new partnership and integration with FreightWaves, bringing FreightWaves SONAR data to the company's collaborative logistics platform. FreightWaves SONAR is the most comprehensive freight data platform in the industry.

New partnership between FreightWaves and Turvo provides actionable, accurate freight market data when shippers, 3PLs, brokers, and carriers need it most.

"COVID-19 blew up the system in terms of reliable historical data. It showed us how difficult it can be to make business decisions while relying on outdated information," said Craig Fuller, founder and CEO of FreightWaves. "Success in the supply chain comes down to how accurate your information is and how quickly you can act on it. SONAR brings near real-time data to the supply chain allowing participants to more effectively and successfully navigate shifting markets."

"We're excited to bring a greater level of actionable visibility to our customers' supply chains," said Scott Lang, Chairman & CEO at Turvo. "By bringing SONAR's freight data into Turvo, our customers will have timely, actionable intelligence right in their workflow as they manage and tender shipments. In Turvo Analytics, SONAR data will enable our customers to take a global view of their operations, helping them better understand lane profitability and margins, identify trends, and uncover opportunities to optimize their operations."

FreightWaves SONAR aggregates freight data from more than 1,000 transportation and logistics sources ranging from IoT vendors, transportation management systems (TMS), telematics providers, on-truck sensors, payment providers, fuel vendors, third-party logistics providers (3PLs), shippers and carriers representing 85 percent of the electronic tenders in the market. Importantly, most of the data in SONAR is based on what happened in the market within the past 24 hours. This perspective gives SONAR a near-time view of market conditions from data sets generated by executed TMS and telematics activity.

"Ultimately, we want to provide our customers with the best experience possible," continued Lang. "That means not only having the best data but being able to access and analyze it in a single place. Turvo's unique architecture unifies systems, data, and people in context, so customers can make smarter decisions."

For more information about Turvo Collaborative Logistics, please visit: https://turvo.com/what-is-turvo/.

About Turvo

Turvo provides the world's leading collaboration application designed specifically for the supply chain. Turvo connects people and organizations allowing shippers, logistics providers, and carriers to unite their supply chains, deliver outstanding customer experiences, collaborate in real-time, and accelerate growth. The technology unifies all systems, internal and external, providing one end-to-end solution to execute all operations and analytics while eliminating redundant manual tasks and automating business processes. Turvo customers include some of the world's largest, Fortune 500 logistics service providers, shippers and freight brokers. Turvo is based in the San Francisco Bay Area with offices in Dallas, Texas, and Hyderabad, India. (www.turvo.com)

About FreightWaves

FreightWaves is the world's leading provider of freight market forecasting, data, news and analysis. Logistics and supply chain firms depend on FreightWaves for benchmarking, analytics, monitoring and forecasting of pricing, capacity, demand, energy and carbon intelligence. The company provides the freshest data and market insights through SONAR, a subscription SaaS platform, and through the world's largest streaming media network focused on logistics and supply chain information.

FreightWaves SONAR provides near real-time freight market data and supply chain intelligence to 500+ enterprises. FreightWaves Carbon Intelligence provides supply chain firms with transparency on carbon emissions and solutions to achieve carbon neutrality.

FreightWaves Media operates the FreightWaves, American Shipper and Modern Shipper brands. FreightWaves Media serves more than 1.5 million unique monthly visitors on its websites, generates 15 million monthly minutes of streaming TV and 100,000 monthly podcast downloads.

Contact

Cameron Galbraith

Turvo

[email protected]

949-214-8245

Matt Stubbs

FreightWaves

[email protected]

SOURCE Turvo

Related Links

http://www.turvo.com


DEVELOPING NEW VISIONS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND GOVERNANCE APPROACHES ACROSS ITS BUSINESS

TORONTO, May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Frontera Energy Corporation (TSX: FEC) ("Frontera" or the "Company") today released its 2020 Sustainability Report (the "Sustainability Report") and reaffirmed its commitment to develop new visions for environmental, social and governance ("ESG") approaches across its business.

Orlando Cabrales, Chief Executive Officer, Frontera commented:

"Frontera's 2020 Sustainability Report highlights the progress the Company made over the last year to act consistently and transparently, to offer quality employment, to promote a sustainable supply chain, to contribute to the sustainable development of communities and to work in harmony with the environment. The Sustainability Report is a relevant tool for our stakeholders to track the Company's progress towards achieving its ESG goals."

Frontera's Sustainability Report covers the period from January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2020. The Sustainability Report has been prepared in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative and is also aligned with the Sustainable Accounting Standards Board (SASB), Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures, the Global Compact, the Voluntary Principles on Human Rights and Security, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Frontera's Sustainability Report can be accessed on the Company's website at: https://www.fronteraenergy.ca/sustainability-reports/ .

Highlights of Frontera's 2020 sustainability efforts include:

Reflecting the highest ethical standards  Frontera was recognized by Ethisphere as one of the world's most ethical companies as a result of the significant progress the Company has made to incorporate best practices and embed an ethical culture across the organization.





 Frontera was recognized by Ethisphere as one of the world's most ethical companies as a result of the significant progress the Company has made to incorporate best practices and embed an ethical culture across the organization. Offering quality employment  The Company reduced its total recordable incident rate in 2020 by 16% compared to 2019, and maintained a safe and healthy work environment across its operations.





The Company reduced its total recordable incident rate in 2020 by 16% compared to 2019, and maintained a safe and healthy work environment across its operations. Promoting a sustainable supply chain  Frontera organized a company-wide forum on the importance of promoting local purchases and implemented a strategy to award contracts to local companies in three categories of critical services: lodging-catering, hardware, and the transportation of dry and liquid cargo.





Frontera organized a company-wide forum on the importance of promoting local purchases and implemented a strategy to award contracts to local companies in three categories of critical services: lodging-catering, hardware, and the transportation of dry and liquid cargo. Contributing to the sustainable development of communities  In response to the ongoing Covid-19 health emergency, Frontera supported projects to provide humanitarian aid including medical and safety supplies and food to neighboring communities in Colombia , Ecuador , Guyana , and Peru .





In response to the ongoing Covid-19 health emergency, Frontera supported projects to provide humanitarian aid including medical and safety supplies and food to neighboring communities in , , , and . Working in harmony with the environment  As part of Frontera's commitment to climate action, for the second consecutive year the Company used the CDP Climate Change questionnaire as a way to improve performance. Frontera improved from band D in 2018 to band C in 2019, with improvements in the areas of risks and energy.

Environmental, Social and Governance

The Company has made significant progress in standardizing and developing new visions for its approach to ESG across its business to ensure better long-term alignment and integration throughout the organization. Over the past year, Frontera completed a top-to-bottom review of its approach to sustainability, considering growing stakeholder expectations and global best practices and standards. In 2021, the Company will develop benchmarks to enable the Company to monitor the progress of its ESG strategy, in line with Frontera's corporate strategy and risk oversight. Frontera will report its progress in its annual Sustainability Report. Some of those benchmarks have been summarized below.

Environment

Frontera's 2021 environmental benchmarks aim for a greener and cleaner future through the neutralization of 40% of its emissions by means of carbon credits or voluntary conservation projects, a 10% reduction of water consumption in operations to contribute to sustainable water use and the protection and preservation of 630 hectares of strategic biological corridors in Casanare and Meta in Colombia that benefit society, ecosystems and biodiversity.

Social

Frontera's 2021 social benchmarks seek to establish a thriving tomorrow for all by encouraging a strong safety culture that works towards zero incidents in our operations, increasing workplace quality, obtaining the Equipares Gold Seal (gender equality certification) and promoting a culture that fosters being inclusive, diverse, free of discrimination and harassment, with gender equality and work-life balance and enhancing local development through initiatives, such as increasing the participation of local services by 15% and setting the guidelines of the ethnic and local women entrepreneurship program.

Governance

Frontera's 2021 governance benchmarks aim to continue to strengthen Frontera's reputation for outstanding corporate governance, ensure that the culture of compliance is consistently promoted throughout the organization and work to integrate ESG-related risks into the Company's existing risk management framework.

About Frontera

Frontera Energy Corporation is a Canadian public Company involved in the exploration, development, production, transportation, storage and sale of oil and natural gas in South America, including related investments in both upstream and midstream facilities. The Company has a diversified portfolio of assets with interests in 40 exploration and production blocks in Colombia, Ecuador and Guyana, and pipeline and port facilities in Colombia. Frontera is committed to conducting business safely and in a socially, environmentally and ethically responsible manner. Frontera's common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "FEC".

If you would like to receive News Releases via e-mail as soon as they are published, please subscribe here: http://fronteraenergy.mediaroom.com/subscribe .

Advisories:

Cautionary Note Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future (including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company's sustainability objectives, strategy and benchmarks in the areas of environmental, social and governance ) are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations or beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to the Company. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things: volatility in market prices for oil and natural gas (including as a result of a sustained low oil price environment due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the actions of OPEC and non-OPEC countries and the restrictions imposed by governments in response thereto; the duration and spread of the COVID-19 pandemic and its severity, the success of the Company's program to manage COVID-19; uncertainties associated with estimating and establishing oil and natural gas reserves and resources; liabilities inherent with the exploration, development, exploitation and reclamation of oil and natural gas; the Company's ability to access additional financing; the ability of the Company to: meet its financial obligations and minimum commitments, fund capital expenditures and comply with covenants contained in the agreements that govern indebtedness; political developments in the countries where the Company operates; the uncertainties involved in interpreting drilling results and other geological data; geological, technical, drilling and processing problems and the other risks disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in the Company's annual information form dated March 3, 2021 filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com). Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein.

SOURCE Frontera Energy Corporation

Related Links

www.fronteraenergy.ca


SAN DIEGO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Italian Air Force has partnered with the U.S. Government and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) to provide a mid-life update to its fleet of MQ-9 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) and Ground Control Stations (GCS) as part of a Foreign Military Sales agreement. The Italian Air Force's Mid-Life Modernization (MLM) Program will include updates to the MQ-9s, which will improve them from Block 1 to Block 5 configuration.

The Block 5 system includes a significantly increased electrical power capability, improved landing gear and the latest versions of the GA-ASI Lynx Multi-mode Radar and Raytheon Electro-Optical sensors.

"The Italian Air Force has long been a leader in the utilization of MQ-9 RPA to support a wide range of Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions in Italy, over the Mediterranean, and in support of NATO operations," said GA-ASI European Regional Vice President, Scott Smith. "These enhancements give Italian forces the ability to see better and more clearly than ever with their MQ-9 RPAs and we're proud to work with the ITAF to update their existing fleet."

High-resolution photos of the Italian MQ-9 are available to qualified media outlets from the listed GA-ASI media contact.

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.

Predator, Lynx, 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

[email protected]

Related Images

ga-asis-mq-9a-block-5-rpa.jpg

GA-ASI's MQ-9A Block 5 RPA

Italian Air Force's Mid-Life Modernization (MLM) Program will include updates to the MQ-9s which will improve them from Block 1 to Block 5 configuration.

SOURCE General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.
SHANGHAI, May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Gannex, a wholly owned company of Ascletis Pharma Inc. (HKEX: 1672), fully dedicated to the R&D and commercialization of new drugs in the field of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), today announces that China National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) has approved the Investigational New Drug (IND) application for its drug candidate ASC42 to conduct clinical trials for NASH indication.

ASC42 is an in-house developed, novel non-steroidal, selective, potent Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR) agonist with best-in-class potential. ASC42 is an oral tablet formulation developed with in-house proprietary technology and is stable at room temperature. ASC42 is expected to be used alone and in combination with thyroid hormone receptor beta (THR-) agonist ASC41 or fatty acid synthase (FASN) inhibitor ASC40.

In October 2020, Gannex received IND approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for ASC42 NASH indication. In December 2020, Gannex received Fast Track designation from the U.S. FDA. The U.S. Phase I topline results of ASC42 will be expected in July 2021.

"We are excited that both China NMPA and U.S. FDA have granted INDs for ASC42 which is a FXR agonist with best-in-class potential. We are looking forward to topline data from ASC42 U.S. Phase I trial and initiation of the Phase II trial in NASH patients by the end of 2021." said Dr. Jinzi J. Wu, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Ascletis.

About Ascletis

Ascletis is an innovative R&D driven biotech and listed on Hong Kong Stock Exchange (1672.HK). Ascletis is committed to developing and commercializing innovative drugs in the areas of NASH, cancer lipid metabolism and oral checkpoint inhibitors, viral hepatitis and HIV/AIDS for unmet medical needs in China and globally. Led by a management team with deep expertise and a proven track record, Ascletis has developed into a fully integrated platform covering the entire value chain from discovery and development to manufacturing and commercialization.

Ascletis has three marketed products and seventeen R&D pipeline drug candidates or combination therapies (eleven of them developed in-house). 1. NASH: Gannex, a wholly-owned company of Ascletis, is fully dedicated to the R&D and commercialization of new drugs in the field of NASH. Gannex has three clinical stage drug candidates against three different targets  FASN, THR-beta and FXR, and three combination therapies. 2. Cancer lipid metabolism and oral checkpoint inhibitors: focus on a pipeline of oral inhibitors targeting FASN which plays a key role in cancer lipid metabolism and a pipeline of oral PD-L1 small molecule inhibitors as the next generation checkpoint inhibitors. 3. Viral hepatitis: (i) Hepatitis B: focus on breakthrough therapies for HBV clinical cure with subcutaneously injected PD-L1 antibody - ASC22 and Pegasys as cornerstone drugs. (ii) Hepatitis C: successfully launched all oral regimen of ASCLEVIR and GANOVO combination (RDV/DNV regimen); and ASC18 fixed dose combination (FDC) is an upgraded version of RDV/DNV regimen with bridging study finished. 4. HIV/AIDS: ASC09F is a FDC treatment of HIV targeting protease. The clinical trial application of ASC09F has been approved. For more information, please visit www.ascletis.com.

SOURCE Ascletis Pharma Inc.

Related Links

http://www.ascletis.com/


REDWOOD CITY, Calif., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- GenapSys, Inc. (GenapSys), a company developing a highly accurate and scalable electronic sequencing platform, today announced it has raised $70 million in a Series D equity financing. Investors in the round included Farallon Capital Management, L.L.C., Soleus Capital, an affiliate of PBM Capital, and additional new investors. Proceeds from this financing will be used to continue advancing GenapSys' semiconductor based next-generation sequencing (NGS) platform.

"We are delighted to partner with this world-class group of investors who together share our broad strategic vision of delivering an affordable, scalable genomic sequencing ecosystem that empowers both academic and clinical research," said Jason Myers, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of GenapSys. "We look forward to leveraging our Board's strategic insight to accelerate new product development, particularly within the oncology arena."

GenapSys Founder and Chairman Dr. Hesaam Esfandyarpour added, "This latest round of funding is a testament to the strength and momentum of GenapSys' technology. The world is just beginning to unlock the immense potential of genomic sequencing and this capital will help fuel GenapSys' next stage of growth. We're honored to welcome these world-class investors and expand the GenapSys Board of Directors."

Additionally, Bob Zollars and a representative of Farallon Capital have been appointed to GenapSys' Board of Directors.

Bob Zollars added, "GenapSys' development of an affordable and highly scalable genomic sequencing ecosystem has the potential to transform the human condition. With the Company's sequencing technology, researchers and clinicians that previously lacked access to sequencing options will be enabled to better understand and treat disease. I am excited to serve as the Company's lead independent director."

Bob Zollars brings over 35 years of leadership experience in healthcare technology and services with a proven track record of growth and value creation. Mr. Zollars is a senior advisor at Frazier Healthcare Partners, in their growth equity business. Previously, Mr. Zollars was group president at Cardinal Health and was responsible for five of their subsidiary companies, he also led four different operating divisions at Baxter Healthcare. He was chairman and CEO of Vocera Communications, Inc. and was previously chairman and CEO of Neoforma, where he led both companies through successful IPO's. He serves on the boards of Change Healthcare, Five 9, Kate Farms, and Parata Systems. Mr. Zollars received his M.B.A. in Finance from John F. Kennedy University and graduated magna cum laude with a B.S. in Marketing from Arizona State University where he is now Chair of the Trustees.

About GenapSys, Inc.

GenapSys is a company focused on the advancement of universal access to genomic information by delivering an affordable, scalable, and accurate genomic sequencing ecosystem that empowers both academic and clinical research applications. Its system leverages a proprietary electrical microfluidic sequencing chip with a scalable number of detectors, allowing for a wide range of applications. GenapSys is headquartered in Redwood City, CA.

GenapSys products are provided for Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

For Media Inquiries:

Surekha Karudapuram, VP, Product Management and Marketing

[email protected]

For Investor Inquiries:

David Deuchler, CFA

Managing Director |Gilmartin Group

[email protected]

SOURCE GenapSys

Related Links

http://www.genapsys.com


The company said it hopes to deliver a new resource update in 2Q 2021 that will include all the new, deeper and off-strike drill holes

Two other wells drilled as part of the program ran from zero to 167 metres with 1,128 milligrams per litre (mg/l) lithium and from 90 to 268 metres with 1,117 mg/l

( ) (OTCQX:NTTHF) revealed that it has intercepted a new deep brine aquifer on its 3Q lithium project in Argentina.

The new aquifer is located outside of the current 3Q resource area, approximately 250 metres east of the 3Q project lake.

Toronto-based Neo Lithium said it hopes to deliver a new resource update in 2Q 2021 that will include all the new, deeper and off-strike drill holes.

According to the firm, brine was found in the sediments at 11 meters deep to the bottom of the well at 362 meters deep  the deepest well drilled in the northern high-grade sector of the deposit. The previous resource estimate high-grade zone in the northern portion of the Salar only went down to 100 metres.

The lower brine aquifer made of coarse sand that runs at depth is new and had not been detected in previous drilling of the high-grade zone because the deepest hole in the north was PP1-R-25 that went to a depth of 268 meters, Neo Lithium said. Rocks found in the hole are interlayered sands, gravel, and clays from surface to 264 metres and coarse sand from 264 to 362 metres, it added.

Two other wells drilled as part of the program ran from zero to 167 metres with 1,128 milligrams per litre (mg/l) lithium and from 90 to 268 metres with 1,117 mg/l.

"We are pleasantly surprised with the result of our drilling and the manner in which the northern high-grade zone extends both deeper and off-strike," Neo Lithium CEO Waldo Perez, told shareholders. "We are keen to see the results of the new resource estimate, further highlighting the quality and size of our project."

The 3Q project is located in the Catamarca Province, the largest lithium-producing area in Argentina and covers approximately 35,000 hectares, including a salar complex of approximately 16,000 hectares.

Contact Angela at angela@proactiveinvestors.com

Follow her on Twitter @AHarmantas
FACTS AT A GLANCE Edition: 16; Released: May 2021 Executive Engagements: 998 Companies: 157 Players covered include American Abalone Farms; Austevoll Seafood ASA; Lery Seafood Group ASA; Bakkafrost; Blue Ridge Aquaculture, Inc.; Camanchaca; Cermaq ASA; Cooke Aquaculture; Dainichi Corporation; Empresas AquaChile S.A.; Grieg Seafood ASA; Huon Aquaculture Group Limited; Mowi ASA; Mowi Canada; Maruha Nichiro Corporation; Multiexport Foods; Nireus S.A.; Nippon Suisan Kaisha Ltd.; Norway Royal Salmon ASA; SalMar ASA; Sea Watch International Ltd.; Selonda Aquaculture S.A.; Stolt Sea Farm; Stehr Group; Tassal Group Ltd.; Taylor Shellfish, Inc.; The Nueva Pescanova Group; Unima Group; Zhanjiang Guolian Aquatic Products Co., Ltd. and Others. Coverage: All major geographies and key segments Segments: Segment (Aquaculture) Geographies: World; USA; Canada; Japan; China; Europe; France; Germany; Italy; UK; Spain; Russia; Rest of Europe; Asia-Pacific; Rest of World.

Complimentary Project Preview - This is an ongoing global program. Preview our research program before you make a purchase decision. We are offering a complimentary access to qualified executives driving strategy, business development, sales & marketing, and product management roles at featured companies. Previews provide deep insider access to business trends; competitive brands; domain expert profiles; and market data templates and much more. You may also build your own bespoke report using our MarketGlass Platform which offers thousands of data bytes without an obligation to purchase our report. Preview Registry

ABSTRACT-

Global Aquaculture Market to Reach $232.4 Billion by 2026

Aquaculture, referred to as the Blue Revolution, is the cultivation of aquatic animals/plants (fish, shellfish, and aquatic plants) in a natural or controlled marine water, fresh water or brackish water environment for all or part of their lifecycle.

Demand in the market is supported by factors such as an expanding global population, growing need for food security, surging demand for animal proteins in many developing countries, and stagnant production of capture fisheries. Further rising disposable incomes of people and growing urban population are leading to enhanced consumption of fish and fish products. Additional factors poised to benefit the aquaculture market in the near term include spiraling popularity of organic aquaculture, and novel technologies that are advancing the method of farm farming such as Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS); Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA); and Large-sized Aquaponics Systems, among others.

Amid the COVID-19 crisis, the global market for Aquaculture estimated at US$180.9 Billion in the year 2020, is projected to reach a revised size of US$232.4 Billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 4.4% over the analysis period. Fresh Water, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is projected to record a 4.7% CAGR and reach US$158.6 Billion by the end of the analysis period. After a thorough analysis of the business implications of the pandemic and its induced economic crisis, growth in the Marine Water segment is readjusted to a revised 4.2% CAGR for the next 7-year period. Aquaculture in freshwater is expanding mainly due to a decline in fish population in rivers and oceans. Freshwater culture environment comprises cages, tanks, ponds in fresh water, and aquaculture species such as trout, carp and tilapia are typically cultivated in this environment. The continued preference for sea water fish sustains demand in the marine water segment.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at $2.7 Billion in 2021, While China is Forecast to Reach $167.3 Billion by 2026

The Aquaculture market in the U.S. is estimated at US$2.7 Billion in the year 2021. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$167.3 Billion by the year 2026 trailing a CAGR of 4.9% over the analysis period. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at 2.5% and 3.4% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 2.7% CAGR. North America and Europe are expected to witness strong progress led by growing adoption of advanced aquaculture techniques and tools. Consumption of fish commodities is growing rapidly in developing countries. Urbanization, rising income levels, and increased consumption of both high and low value food fish are further propelling the market for aquaculture and fisheries in the developing countries.

Brackish Water Segment to Reach $32.4 Billion by 2026

In the global Brackish Water segment, USA, Canada, Japan, China and Europe will drive the 3.5% CAGR estimated for this segment. These regional markets accounting for a combined market size of US$21.9 Billion in the year 2020 will reach a projected size of US$27.9 Billion by the close of the analysis period. China will remain among the fastest growing in this cluster of regional markets. Led by countries such as Australia, India, and South Korea, the market in Asia-Pacific is forecast to reach US$3.4 Billion by the year 2026. More

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CONTACTS:

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Global Industry Analysts, Inc.

Phone: 1-408-528-9966

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ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Growve today announced $175 million in funding from multiple syndication partners to fuel further acquisitions of omnichannel natural wellness & body care brands. The successful and oversubscribed closing of this new credit facility follows Growve's announcement of a minority equity investment from Palm Beach Capital and signals the Company's rapid ascent as a top brand aggregator and leader in the fast-evolving e-commerce marketplace. The expanded banking syndicate has the capacity to facilitate Growve's aggressive growth trajectory and is comprised of Truist Bank, Compeer Financial, Wells Fargo, N.A., First Horizon Bank, JP Morgan Chase & Co., Synovus Bank, South State Bank, N.A., Atlantic Capital Bank, N.A., HSBC Bank USA, N.A. and Seaside Bank and Trust, a division of United Community Bank.

"We are pleased with the successful execution of this important credit facility to boost further acquisition and organic growth priorities, sustaining Growve's long-term growth capital structure and making us a key player in this space," CEO Brian Baer said. "We have completed 13 acquisitions since February 2018 and seven of those in the past year, fortifying our portfolio across all major natural product categories. This bank syndication, in the wake of the Palm Beach Capital announcement, demonstrates investors' support for our vision, strategy and phenomenal growth potential. It unlocks future value at a favorable cost."

"We are excited to have the support of 10 leading financial institutions that have joined together in funding our growth initiatives," added Mark Jaggi, CFO. "We thank Truist Securities for leading this initiative and Truist Bank for their continued participation. They have reposed faith in our fundamentals, and we welcome a host of partners in this new facility."

About Growve

We Grow Brands . . . Let Us Invest In Yours.

Headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida, Growve is a brand consolidator specializing in acquiring and operating world-class natural brands in the supplement, body care, food, household and pet categories. Growve's team of 400+ derives its value from aggregating brands and driving growth through in-house expertise in marketplace management, digital marketing, creative services, innovation, distribution, retail sales, manufacturing, supply chain management, regulatory and accounting. The Company's portfolio includes 20+ brands and hundreds of unique products. Named to Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing list. Recently awarded two first-place Drug Store News Buyers' Choice Awards for its Fruily brand. Learn more at growve.com.

For Media:

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growve

We Grow Brands. Let Us Invest In Yours.

SOURCE Growve
"We're excited to be collaborating with Apple, as they launch a game-changing platform that puts both creators and listeners first," said Leah Sutherland, Podcast Director at Headspace Studios. "With so many of our listeners engaging with mindfulness content, such as sleep, we're looking forward to offering them a dedicated space for this through the Headspace Channel."

Through the Headspace Channel, listeners will be able to enjoy other Headspace fan favorites for free, including:

Radio Headspace - currently in its new season, the podcast is hosted by Headspace's Director of Meditation and mindfulness teacher, Eve Lewis Prieto . Past seasons feature Headspace co-founder Andy Puddicombe which are also available for listening.

- currently in its new season, the podcast is hosted by Headspace's Director of Meditation and mindfulness teacher, . Past seasons feature Headspace co-founder which are also available for listening. The Gift of Forgiveness - hosted by Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt and inspired by her book, "The Gift of Forgiveness," each episode dives into true stories of forgiveness - straight from the people who've lived through them.

- hosted by and inspired by her book, "The Gift of Forgiveness," each episode dives into true stories of forgiveness - straight from the people who've lived through them. The Yes Theory Podcast - the series explores how stepping out of your comfort zone may be the key to happiness, and features the creators of the popular YouTube channel, "Yes Theory."

For more information on Headspace, the Headspace Channel with Apple Podcasts and details on the Sleep Subscription, please visit www.headspace.com .

ABOUT HEADSPACE STUDIOS:

Headspace Studios is a multi-platform production studio within Headspace, creating mindful living content for distribution outside of the app. This includes premium TV and film projects, digital series and thought-provoking podcasts. Most recently, Headspace Studios collaborated with Netflix and Vox Media Studios on a three-part collaboration which includes "Headspace Guide to Meditation," "Headspace Guide to Sleep," and "Unwind Your Mind," a fully interactive mindfulness experience designed to be accessible anytime, anywhere. In 2021, the team also launched the "Meditate with Me" YouTube series featuring a variety of notable comedians such as Tiffany Haddish, Amanda Seales and Kevin Hart. Additionally, Headspace Studios worked with Headspace Chief Music Officer and Grammy-award winning artist, John Legend, and two neuroscientists on YouTube series, "Music on my Mind," which explores the effects of music on the brain.

Other television projects include working with BBC Studios Natural History Unit on Mindful Earth and on a pioneering four-part series for BBC Four called Mindful Escapes: Breathe, Release, Restore. The company also works with beloved children's brands globally, developing social-emotional learning tools for kids and families with brands like Mattel and Sesame Street. Monster Meditations with Sesame Street also won the 2021 Kidscreen Award for Best Web/App SeriesBranded. Headspace Studios' award-winning podcasting slate includes "Radio Headspace," hosted by Headspace co-founder Andy Puddicombe and Director of Meditation, Eve Lewis Prieto; Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt's podcast, "The Gift of Forgiveness;" and the "Yes Theory Podcast," from the creators of the popular YouTube channel, Yes Theory.

About Headspace

Headspace was created with one mission in mind: to improve the health and happiness of the world. Reaching 70 million users in 190 countries, Headspace was one of the first meditation apps in the world and remains a leader in mindfulness and mental training. Headspace is committed to advancing the field of mindfulness through clinically validated research, with one of the largest research pipelines of any digital health and wellness company. Headspace operates a B2B business (Headspace for Work) to offer its mindfulness products and services to more than 2,000 companies, such as Starbucks, Adobe, Hyatt and Unilever, to help them build healthier, more productive cultures and higher performing organizations. Headspace supports government entities like New York State and the UK's National Health Service (NHS) to offer digital mental health tools. Headspace partners with many of the world's most-recognizable brands, including Apple, Sesame Street, Spotify and Amazon, as well as with Nike to offer sport and movement content. Headspace Health is Headspace's digital health subsidiary pioneering new ways to incorporate the Headspace mindfulness experience into digital medicine. Headspace has been recognized as TIME100's Most Influential Companies of 2021, Fast Company's 10 most innovative social good companies of 2021 and World's Most Innovative Companies. Other accolades include Apple's Best of 2018, Samsung's Best of 2019 and one of CB Insights' top digital health companies, along with being selected for seven Webby Awards in podcasts, health and fitness. For more information please visit us at www.headspace.com, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

SOURCE Headspace

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SAN FRANCISCO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The global healthcare automatic identification and data capture market size is expected to reach USD 62.0 billion by 2028, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 22.3% from 2021 to 2028. The growth is attributed majorly due to the increasing focus of pharmaceutical companies on optimizing the supply chain. For instance, in October 2020, Sandoz launched its first RFID-tagged critical injectable medicines in the U.S.

Key suggestions from the report:

The biometric emerged as the largest revenue-generating segment of the healthcare AIDC market in 2020. Increasing adoption of RFID technology for AIDC services in the healthcare industry is estimated to drive market

The hardware segment dominated the market in 2020 owing to the growing installation of RFID systems. The rising requirement for hardware-based components in the AIDC devices such as printers, scanners, readers, cards, and other such systems is expected to drive the market

The clinical segment is expected to exhibit the fastest growth rate during the study period. Growing adoption of AIDC for clinical applications such as blood transfusion verification, medication administration, verification laboratory specimen identification is anticipated to drive the market

Asia Pacific region has emerged as the fastest-growing market during the forecast period. Existence of a large pharmaceutical industry requiring this technology for process streamlining

Read 180 page research report with ToC on "Healthcare Automatic Identification And Data Capture Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Technology (Barcode, RFID, Biometric), By Component, By Application, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2021 - 2028" at: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/healthcare-automatic-identification-data-capture-market

Furthermore, technological advancements by market players and favorable government policies pertaining to automatic identification and data capture (AIDC) solutions are expected to fuel the market demand in coming years. The National Health Authority of India issued new guidelines for the Ayushman Bharat scheme. These guidelines for to introduce biometric authentication at the time of admission and discharge of the patients. These types of initiatives are anticipated to propel market growth.

In recent years, RFID tools, which use wireless communication to identify and track equipment and assets, have seen strong adoption in healthcare settings. Upgrading of inventory management in pharmacies, hospitals, life and science companies, high demand for enhanced patient safety by healthcare providers, and implementation of automated processes in healthcare facilities are expected to fuel the healthcare RFID market growth during the forecast period.

The COVID-19 outbreak is also becoming an emerging driver for the adoption of biometric solutions. As the COVID-19 is revealing the importance of AIDCs around the world. Hence, it is estimated that the market will witness lucrative opportunities due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Grand View Research has segmented the global healthcare automatic identification and data capture market on the basis of technology, component, application, and region:

Healthcare AIDC Technology Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

Barcode



RFID



Biometric



Others

Healthcare AIDC Component Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

Hardware



Software



Services

Healthcare AIDC Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

Clinical



Non-Clinical

Healthcare AIDC Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

North America



U.S.





Canada



Europe



U.K.





Germany





France





Italy





Spain



Asia Pacific



China





India





Japan





Australia





South Korea



Latin America



Brazil





Mexico





Argentina



Middle East & Africa

&

South Africa





Saudi Arabia

List of Key Players of Healthcare Automatic Identification And Data Capture (AIDC) Market

Datalogic S.p.A

SICK AG

Honeywell International Inc.

Cognex Corporation

Toshiba TEC Corporation

Bluebird Inc.

NXP Semiconductors

SATO Holdings Corporation

The Code Corporation

Jadak - A Novanta Company

Unitech Electronics Co., LTD.

Impinj, Inc.

Denso Wave Europe

Avery Dennison Corporation

TSC Auto ID Technology Co., Ltd.

Find more research reports on Healthcare IT Industry, by Grand View Research:

RFID in Healthcare MarketThe global RFID in healthcare market size was valued at USD 2.58 billion in 2018 and is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 22.4% during the forecast period.

in 2018 and is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 22.4% during the forecast period. Radio Frequency Identification Technology MarketThe global radio frequency identification technology market size was valued at USD 10.53 billion in 2015. The RFID technology is expected to witness a steady growth in the coming years, which is attributed to the increasing demand for locating, tracking, and monitoring objects and beings for security, safety, and resource optimization.

in 2015. The RFID technology is expected to witness a steady growth in the coming years, which is attributed to the increasing demand for locating, tracking, and monitoring objects and beings for security, safety, and resource optimization. Surgical Instrument Tracking Systems MarketThe global surgical instrument tracking systems market size was valued at USD 172.2 million in 2020 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.2% from 2021 to 2028.

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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:

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The new funding will enable Homeward to accomplish several growth goals. Most importantly, the company will scale service and support to meet outsized demand in this historic housing market, and open additional markets.

"We anticipated cash offers becoming standard a few years ago  sellers prefer cash offers because they are much more certain to close," says Homeward Founder and CEO Tim Heyl. "We designed our cash offer in a way that enables real estate agents to make every buyer a cash buyer. Our instincts were right  that's obvious from the tremendous demand we're seeing today."

Jeff Crowe , managing partner at Norwest Venture Partners, will join Homeward's board. "Homeward is innovating at the intersection of real estate and fintech  that's the next frontier," explains Crowe. "Homeward's cash offer addresses real problems for homebuyers in all market conditions, and the team has identified a winning strategy by partnering with agents and their clients."

Working with agents, not against them.



Homeward empowers top real estate agents to make every buyer a cash buyer and currently operates in Texas, Georgia, and Colorado.

"Most alternatives to traditional real estate minimize or replace the agent," explains Heyl. "But we are agents ourselves, and we've built this for agents. We believe today's seller's market makes agents more important than ever. "

Homeward partners with real estate teams to preserve their agent-client relationships and protect their commissions. Homeward's solutions are available to any agent, but the company strategically partners with top brokerages and teams, providing dedicated support, white-label branding, and digital marketing tools to help them stand out from the crowd and attract more clients.

Realty Austin (RA), a brokerage team of more than 570 agents that is ranked the #1 independent brokerage in Central Texas, one of the hottest and hardest-to-navigate housing markets in America, serves as a great example of how powerful this partnership can be.

"Homeward's solutions are an incredible product-market fit for us," explains Realty Austin co-owner Jonathan Boatwright. "The embedded tech, marketing support, and agent training Homeward provides gives us a competitive edge that helps us acquire more customers and get them into homes they love in an insanely competitive market."

Innovating customer-centric solutions.

Heyl became a real estate agent when he graduated from college in 2009. At 24, he was named his city's number-one real estate agent by The Austin Business Journal. He led his brokerage, The Heyl Group, to become one of the top 25 agent teams in the country.

But he noticed a disturbing and deal-killing pattern. Heyl's buyers often couldn't buy a new home until they sold their old home. They got stuck paying two mortgages, moving twice, or missing out on a home they loved. So Heyl tried something radical: He bought the home one of his clients wanted with his own savings. Then the client bought it back from Heyl once they sold their old house and freed up their equity. That experiment launched Homeward's innovation around the problems that stem from traditional home finance.

Since then, Homeward has experienced tremendous growth and recently reported a 5x year-over-year increase in the volume of homes transacted and a 9x year-over-year growth in new customers.

Both of Homeward's solutions  Buy before you sell and Buy with cash  help homebuyers overcome the limitations of financed offers. Homeward buys the home on behalf of their partners' client, then the client gets their mortgage and buys the home back.

The Homeward Cash Offer eliminates the financing, home sale, and appraisal contingencies. Buy with cash customers quadruple their chances of winning in competitive situations. Buy before you sell customers have that same competitive edge, and can also move into their new home before they sell, giving them the confidence and certainty they need to put their old home on the market.

About Homeward. Homeward is a modern home finance company that helps real estate agents and their clients overcome the limitations of traditional mortgages. The Homeward Cash Offer eliminates finance, home sale, and appraisal contingencies, enabling homebuyers to win with cash and, when necessary, to buy their new home before they sell their old one. Homeward has an office in Austin, TX, but operates with a fully remote workforce. For more information, please visit Homeward.com .

About Norwest Venture Partners. Norwest is a leading venture and growth equity investment firm managing more than $9.5 billion in capital. Since our inception, we have invested in more than 600 companies and partnered with over 150 active companies. We invest in early to late stage companies across a wide range of sectors with a focus on consumer, enterprise, and healthcare. Investments include Uber, Spotify, Opendoor, Plaid, Udemy, Calm, Faire and Gong. We offer a deep network of connections, operating experience, and a wide range of impactful services to help CEOs and founders scale their businesses. Norwest has offices in Palo Alto and San Francisco, with subsidiaries in India and Israel. For more information, please visit www.nvp.com .

SOURCE Homeward

Related Links

https://www.homeward.com/


SHENZHEN, China, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- On May 25-27, 2021, the 15th China Guangzhou International Air Purification And Fresh Air System Exhibition, hosted by Chinese Society For Environmental Sciences and other organizations, was officially held at China Import and Export Fair Complex. Huntkey Group brought its air purifier brand Oucica to the exhibition site.

This exhibition has always been aiming at internationalization, specialization and branding. It has large transaction volume and many audience. It focuses on the field of air purification and fresh air, the audience has chance to know new technologies and new trends. It has become the first-choice event for air purifier companies seeking new opportunities and market development.

As a leader in the high-end air purifier industry, Oucica exhibited air purifier series products, which use photocatalyst UVA decomposition technology, can kill viruses, remove odors, and remove aldehydes. Oucica exhibited three kinds of products in total, including car air purifiers, desktop purifiers, and home air purifiers. The first two are for small spaces and the last one is for large space.

In the conference, in accordance with the standard of the "Brand Evaluation of Air Purification Products" issued by the China Council for Brand Development, and the brand evaluation by the Indoor Air Purification Professional Technical Committee, Oucica was successfully shortlisted for the 2020 Air Purification Products "Firstline Brand". For more information about Oucica air purifiers, please visit https://en.huntkey.com/products/air-purifiers

Exhibition Time

May 25, 2021-May 27, 2021

Exhibition Place

China Import And Export Fair Complex

Organizer

Chinese Society For Environmental Sciences

Many other organizations

About Huntkey

Founded in 1995, Huntkey is a leading provider of PC power supplies, power strips, surge protectors, laptop adapters, phone chargers, monitors and air purifiers. Huntkey is an Asia renowned brand, a member of The International Power Supply Manufacturer's Association (PSMA) and China Power Supply Society (CPSS). Covering approximately 1,000,000 square meters added up from three industrial parks, Huntkey is one of the most famous brands and largest companies in mainland China. It is headquartered in Shenzhen, with branch offices in the US, Japan and Hong Kong, and with cooperating factories in Vietnam, Brazil, Argentina and India. For more information visit https://en.huntkey.com

In 2020, Huntkey introduced its latest photocatalyst air purifier - the desktop air purifier globally. The desktop air purifier is designed portable and can efficiently remove chemical vapors, odors, haze particles, and many more air pollutants. For more information visit https://en.huntkey.com/products/air-purifiers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HuntkeyGlobal

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/1452281/admin

VK: https://vk.com/huntkey_cis

SOURCE Huntkey

Related Links

https://en.huntkey.com/


DUBLIN, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Home Healthcare Market - Global Outlook and Forecast 2021-2026" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global home healthcare market by revenue is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 6% during 2020-2026.



Growing innovations in-home healthcare products and services are likely to boost the market's growth. The reformation of healthcare is another vital driver for the market. Home services are more cost-effective than hospital care, increasing their preference under Medicare and Medicaid. Governments in several countries are encouraging the use of home healthcare for patients suffering from chronic illness. Hospital-at-home is one of the fastest-growing trends in several developed countries. For example, in late 2020, the US Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) launched a new hospital-at-home waiver to meet acute critical care capacity challenges, granting hospitals unprecedented flexibility to patients in their home settings.

Moreover, patient acuity levels are continuously rising, pushing agencies to offer more specialized services. Home services are utilized mainly by the older population, representing a significant proportion of the total patient population. With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the sales of home healthcare devices reported a boost with the increase in the severity of COVID-19 infections. Patients preferred to opt for home care for required health ailments, thereby influencing the growth of the home healthcare market.



The following factors are likely to contribute to the growth of the home healthcare market during the forecast period:

Increasing Demand for Preventive Healthcare Devices

The Shift toward Patient-centric Model

On-demand Healthcare Services

Advances in Home Healthcare Product Technology

The study considers the global home healthcare market's present scenario and its market dynamics for 2020-2026. It covers a detailed overview of several market growth enablers, restraints, and trends. The report offers both the demand and supply aspects of the market. It profiles and examines leading companies and other prominent ones operating in the market.

Key Questions Answered:

How big is the home healthcare industry? What is the home healthcare market growth? Which segment accounted for the largest home healthcare market share? What was the size of the US home healthcare market in 2020? Who are the key players in the home healthcare market?

Key Topics Covered:



1 Research Methodology



2 Research Objectives



3 Research Process



4 Scope & Coverage

4.1 Market Definition

4.2 Base Year

4.3 Scope Of The Study



5 Report Assumptions & Caveats

5.1 Key Caveats

5.2 Currency Conversion

5.3 Market Derivation



6 Market at a Glance



7 Introduction

7.1 Home Healthcare: An Overview



8 Market Opportunities & Trends

8.1 Increasing Demand For Preventive Healthcare Devices

8.2 Shift To Patient-Centric Model

8.3 On-Demand Healthcare Services



9 Market Growth Enablers

9.1 Technological Advances In Home Healthcare Products

9.2 Low Risk Of Hospital Readmission & Fall Injuries

9.3 Reformation Of Healthcare System



10 Market Restraints

10.1 Patient-Related Issues Of Home Healthcare Products

10.2 Staffing Of Healthcare Service Providers

10.3 Acceptance Of Home Healthcare Services



11 Market Landscape

11.1 Market Overview

11.2 Impact Of COVID-19 On Global Home Healthcare Market

11.3 Market Size & Forecast

11.4 Five Forces Analysis



12 Product

12.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine

12.2 Market Overview



13 Home Healthcare Devices

13.1 Market Overview

13.2 Market Size & Forecast

13.3 Home Healthcare Devices: Geographical Segmentation

13.4 Home Healthcare Devices: Devices Segmentation

13.5 Diagnostic & Monitoring Devices

13.6 Therapeutic Devices

13.7 Rehabilitation Devices



14 Home Healthcare Services

14.1 Market Overview

14.2 Market Size & Forecast

14.3 Home Healthcare Services: Geography Segmentation

14.4 Home Healthcare Services: Services Segmentation

14.5 Skilled Nurse Service

14.6 Therapeutic Services

14.7 Diagnostics & Monitoring Services

14.8 Infusion Therapy Services

14.9 Home Health Aids Services

14.10 Other Services



15 Indication

15.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine

15.2 Market Overview

15.3 Cardiovascular Diseases

15.4 Orthopedic Diseases

15.5 Metabolic Diseases

15.6 Respiratory/Pulmonary Diseases

15.7 Neurovascular Diseases

15.8 Kidney Diseases

15.9 Mobility Disorders

15.10 Others



16 Geography

16.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine

16.2 Geographic Overview



17 North America

17.1 Market Overview

17.2 Market Size & Forecast

17.3 Key Countries



18 Europe

18.1 Market Overview

18.2 Market Size & Forecast

18.3 Key Countries



19 APAC

19.1 Market Overview

19.2 Market Size & Forecast

19.3 Key Countries



20 Latin America

20.1 Market Overview

20.2 Market Size & Forecast

20.3 Key Countries



21 Middle East & Africa

21.1 Market Overview

21.2 Market Size & Forecast

21.3 Key Countries



22 Competitive Landscape

22.1 Competition Overview

22.2 Market Analysis



23 Key Company Profiles

23.1 Omron Corporation

23.2 Abbott

23.3 B. Braun Melsungen

23.4 GE Healthcare

23.5 Medtronic

23.6 Koninklijke Philips N.V.

23.7 A&D Company

23.8 Cardinal Health

23.9 F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd

23.10 Fresenius SE & CO. KGAA

23.11 Air Liquide

23.12 Kindred Healthcare

23.13 Bayada Home Health Care

23.14 Amedisys

23.15 Encompass Health Corporation

23.16 LHC Group, Inc.



24 Other Prominent Vendors

24.1 Advita Pflegedienst

24.2 Healthcare At Home

24.3 Privatassistenza

24.4 Portea

24.5 Nihon Kohden

24.6 OSI Systems

24.7 Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics

24.8 CONTEC

24.9 Dragerwerk

24.10 EPSIMED

24.11 Guangdong Biolight Meditech

24.12 Kizlonmedical

24.13 Mediana

24.14 Medion Healthcare

24.15 Schiller

24.16 Skanray Technologies

24.17 Baxter International

24.18 Cardiomed Supplies

24.19 Merit Medical Systems

24.20 MITRA INDUSTRIES

24.21 Angiplast

24.22 Lifeline Services

24.23 Health Line International

24.24 Newsol Technologies

24.25 Poly Medicure

24.26 Terumo

24.27 UTAH Medical Products

24.28 Medcomp

24.29 Renax Biomedical Tech



25 Report Summary

25.1 Key Takeaways

25.2 Strategic Recommendations



26 Quantitative Summary

26.1 Market By Product

26.2 Indication

26.3 Geography



27 Appendix



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/m15vao



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PHILADELPHIA, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- IntegriChain, delivering Life Sciences' only comprehensive data and business process platform for market access, today announced that two senior Advisory experts will present at Informa's upcoming Medicaid & GP Congress . Jeff Baab , Vice President, and Rupal Patel , Senior Director, are both experts in the latest regulatory landscape affecting Contracts & Pricing teams, advising Life Sciences manufacturers of all sizes and complexity on the impacts of current and pending regulations. IntegriChain is a sponsor of the virtual conference, which runs June 8-11, 2021.

"For Life Sciences manufacturers, the regulatory landscape is muddled with numerous new rules and pending regulations that affect both their government and commercial channels as well as short- and long-term planning," said Baab. "At IntegriChain, it's our job to interpret current and pending regulatory changes -- and their impact on Contracts & Pricing teams, processes, and compliance requirements -- for hundreds of manufacturers. We look forward to these sessions to provide clarity and focus for attendees."

IntegriChain's sessions during Medicaid & GP Congress are as follows.

Current Final Rule Updates and Review

June 21, 1:15 pm

Late last year, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) finalized regulatory changes to modernize Medicaid prescription drug purchasing and propel payment innovation by providing states, private payers, and manufacturers more flexibility to enter into value-based purchasing arrangements for prescription drugs. Patel will be joined in this session by Kristie Gurley, an Associate at Covington & Burling LLP, and together they will review key aspects of the Final Rule, potential changes to the Final Rule, and the impact on manufacturers, including:

Line Extension Ruling

PBM Accumulators

Value-Based Pricing Regulations

Legal and Compliance Closing Fireside Chat

June 21, 2:00 pm

Baab will moderate an interactive discussion featuring a panel of experienced attorneys providing insight into the most pressing issues. Panelists include Meena Datta, a Partner at Sidley Austin, LLP; Stephanie Trunk, a Partner at Arent Fox; Jennifer Plitsch, a Partner at Covington & Burling: Alice Valder Curran, a Partner at Hogan Lovells; and Christopher Schott, a Partner at Latham & Watkins LLP.

About IntegriChain's Government Pricing & Compliance

Advisory Services

Experienced IntegriChain consultants advise Life Sciences manufacturers on strategic and compliance matters in the midst of an the ever-changing government and program regulations including:

Product Launch Readiness

Regulatory and Event Modeling

Federal Supply Schedule and Contract Support (FSS/VA)

Government Pricing Assessments and Restatements

State Price Transparency Reporting Advisory and Services

M&A Activity Due Diligence

Policies, Methodologies and Procedures

About IntegriChain

IntegriChain is Life Sciences' data and application backbone for patient access and therapy commercialization. More than 250 manufacturers rely on IntegriChain's ICyte Platform to orchestrate commercial and government payer contracting, patient services, and distribution channels. ICyte is the first and only platform that unites the financial, operational, and commercial data sets required to support therapy access in the era of specialty and precision medicine. With ICyte, Life Sciences innovators are digitalizing labor-intensive processes  freeing up their best talent to identify and resolve coverage and availability hurdles and to manage pricing and forecasting complexity. IntegriChain is backed by Accel-KKR, a leading Silicon Valley technology private equity firm. The company is headquartered in Philadelphia, PA, with offices in Ambler, PA; Raleigh, NC, and Pune, India. For more information, visit www.integrichain.com, or follow us on Twitter @IntegriChain and LinkedIn.

Contact

IntegriChain: Jennifer Guinan, Sage Strategic Marketing, 610.410.8111, [email protected]



SOURCE IntegriChain
LONDON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Telit, a global enabler of the Internet of Things (IoT), today announced its FN980m 5G module is ready for mass deployment in Russia after successful testing with all major radio access network (RAN) vendors and mobile network operators (MNOs). With lab and live pilot network testing successfully completed in both indoor and outdoor environments, this marks another significant milestone in Russia following Telit's 2020 completion of a 5G connection on a major 4.9 GHz (sub-6 GHz) network.

Launched in 2019, the Telit FN980mpowered by the Snapdragon X55 5G Modem-RF Systemsupports up to 5.5 Gbps downlinks and 1.5 Gbps uplinks, making it ideal for bandwidth-intensive applications such as professional video broadcasting, digital signage and industrial IoT among other use cases. Supporting all major frequency bands, it gives service providers and their customers maximum deployment flexibility. For more information, visit: https://www.telit.com/5g-ready-modules-data-cards/.

"Telit continues to remain the forefront of the 5G market in Russia, thanks to successful interoperability testing with our FN980m 5G module in both sub-6 and millimeter wave (mmWave)," says Marco Contento, vice president of 5G technologies, Telit. "As a worldwide leader in mobile broadband technology with a long-term presence in Russia, we are honored to offer our customers 5G solutions that are reliable, secure and easy to integrate into design."

About Telit

Telit (AIM: TCM), is a global leader in Internet of Things (IoT) enablement, with an extensive portfolio of wireless connectivity modules, software platforms and global IoT connectivity services, empowering hundreds of millions of connected 'things' to date, and trusted by thousands of direct and indirect customers, globally. With over two decades of IoT innovation experience, Telit continues to redefine the boundaries of digital business, by delivering secure, integrated end-to-end IoT solutions for many of the world's largest brands, including enterprises, OEMs, system integrators and service providers across all industries, enabling them to simplify, connect and manage IoT at any scale.

Copyright  2021 Telit Communications PLC. All rights reserved. Telit, Telit OneEdge and all associated logos are trademarks of Telit Communications PLC in the United States and other countries. Other names used herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Qualcomm and Snapdragon are trademarks or registered trademarks of Qualcomm Incorporated. Qualcomm Snapdragon is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries.

Media Contacts

Leslie Hart

Telit

+1 919-415-1510

[email protected]

Lora Wilson

Valerie Christopherson

GRC for Telit

+1 949-608-0276

[email protected]

SOURCE Telit

Related Links

http://www.telit.com


AIM hopes to commence inhalation safety testing before year-end

AIM entered into the material transfer and research agreement to study the utilization of an innovative Smoore inhalation delivery device

(NYSEAMERICAN:AIM) (FRA:HXB2) has entered into a two-year agreement extension with Shenzhen Smoore Technology Limited (Smoore) with the goal of developing Ampligen as a potential inhalation therapy for coronavirus (COVID-19) and other respiratory viral diseases.

In April 2020, AIM entered into the material transfer and research agreement to study the utilization of an innovative Smoore inhalation delivery device and Ampligen as a potential treatment approach for the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

On parallel paths, over the past year, AIM said Smoore has focused on the development of a personal inhalation device designed to administer Ampligen, given temperature parameters of dsRNA. Smoore is a subsidiary of Smoore International Holdings Limited.

Contemporaneously, AIM has studied the safety and efficacy of Ampligen, using an ex vivo 3D model in primary human respiratory epithelial cells at the Utah State University, which showed that Ampligen was able to decrease SARS-CoV-2 infectious viral yields by 90% at clinically achievable intranasal Ampligen dosage levels.

Ocala, Florida-based AIM noted that it hopes to commence inhalation safety testing before year-end.

"With Smoores concept for an Ampligen inhalation delivery device ready to be developed, and Ampligens track record of both safety and efficacy, we believe AIM is well positioned to move forward with our goal of developing Ampligen as a potential inhalation therapy for COVID-19 and potentially other respiratory viral diseases, said AIM CEO Thomas Equels in a statement.

"We are in the process of planning a Phase 1/2 inhalation clinical study on a parallel track with Smoores device development testing.

Dr Zhiqiang Shi, chief scientist and director of global R&D at Smoore, added: Application of vaping technology in healthcare and pharmaceutical fields is one of our R&D focus. We are really happy to partner with AIM to explore applications of advanced atomization technology in medical inhalation therapy. We will coordinate our device development work along with our partners plan and the regulation needs to move into next phase testing on schedule.

Contact the author: patrick@proactiveinvestors.com

Follow him on Twitter @PatrickMGraham
ATLANTA, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Invesco Mortgage Capital Inc. (the "Company") (NYSE: IVR) announced today the pricing of its public offering of 37.5 million shares of its common stock, resulting in gross proceeds of approximately $128.625 million, before deducting any underwriting compensation or estimated offering expenses. In connection with the offering, the Company has granted the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 5.625 million shares of the Company's common stock. The offering is expected to close on June 1, 2021.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds from this offering to pay for the previously announced redemption of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company's 7.75% Series A Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value per share, and to use any remaining net proceeds for general corporate purposes, which may include, among other things, repayment of maturing obligations, capital expenditures and working capital.

Credit Suisse, Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, BofA Securities, JMP Securities LLC and JonesTrading Institutional Services LLC are acting as joint book-running managers for the offering.

The Company is conducting the offering pursuant to an effective registration statement on Form S-3ASR dated February 27, 2019 (Commission File No. 333-229917). The offering is being made pursuant to the prospectus supplement and accompanying base prospectus that has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). Before you invest, you should read the prospectus supplement, prospectus and other documents the Company has filed with the SEC for more complete information about the Company and this offering. These documents are available for free on EDGAR on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the final prospectus supplement, when available, and the accompanying prospectus may also be obtained by contacting:

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

Attn: Prospectus Department

6933 Louis Stephens Drive

Morrisville, North Carolina 27560

By phone: 1-800-221-1037

By e-mail: [email protected]

This announcement shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities of the Company, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

About Invesco Mortgage Capital Inc.

Invesco Mortgage Capital Inc. is a real estate investment trust that primarily focuses on investing in, financing and managing mortgage-backed securities and other mortgage-related assets. Invesco Mortgage Capital Inc. is externally managed and advised by Invesco Advisers, Inc., a registered investment adviser and an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Invesco Ltd., a leading independent global investment management firm.

Cautionary Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may include statements and information that constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the U.S. securities laws as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, and such statements are intended to be covered by the safe harbor provided by the same. Forward-looking statements are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and are generally beyond the Company's control. These forward-looking statements include information about the size of the offering described above, the Company's ability to complete such offering on desirable terms, or at all, and the use of the net proceeds therefrom, as well as any other statements other than statements of historical fact. The words "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "plan," "continue," "intend," "project," "forecast" or similar expressions and future or conditional verbs such as "will," "may," "could," "should," and "would," and any other statement that necessarily depends on future events, are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements may contain such words.

The forward-looking statements are based on management's beliefs, assumptions and expectations of the Company's future performance, taking into account all information currently available. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These beliefs, assumptions and expectations can change as a result of many possible events or factors, not all of which are known to the Company. For example, the closing of the offering described above is subject to closing conditions customary in transactions of this type and may be delayed or may not occur at all. In addition, the net proceeds of the offering may not be used as indicated. Some of the other factors are described in the Company's most recent annual report on Form 10-K and subsequent filings, including the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q filed on May 5, 2021, which are available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov, under the headings "Risk Factors," "Forward-Looking Statements," "Business" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," as applicable.

Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made. New risks and uncertainties arise over time, and it is not possible to predict those events or how they may affect the Company. Except as required by law, the Company is not obligated to, and does not intend to, update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Investor Relations Contact: Jack Bateman, 404-439-3323

SOURCE Invesco Mortgage Capital Inc.
CHICAGO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated (NYSE: JLL) announced that Tina Ju was elected to serve as an independent, non-executive member of its Board of Directors at the company's Annual Meeting of Shareholders today.

Tina Ju

Ju is a founding, managing and general partner of KPCB China and TDF Capital. With more than 30 years of experience in venture capital, investment banking and operations, Ju began her venture capital career in 1999. She co-founded VTDF China in 2000 and KPCB China in 2007. Earlier in her career, Ju spent 10 years in investment banking including at Deutsche Bank as head of TMT and Transport Asia, at Merrill Lynch as head of Asia Technology and the Corporate Finance Team and at Goldman Sachs.

Currently, Ju serves on the boards of various private companies and the public fintech company, Yiren Digital Ltd., which provides Chinese consumers with both credit and wealth management solutions. She is also a member of the Global Leadership Council for Oxford Said Business School. Ju earned a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering and operations research from University of California, Berkeley and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

"We're pleased to welcome Tina to our Board," said Siddharth N. (Bobby) Mehta, Chairman of the JLL Board of Directors. "Her extensive experience in venture capital, investment banking and operations will help guide JLL's continued growth."

"Tina's expertise, market knowledge and ability to engage with leading entrepreneurs and successful enterprises will be invaluable as we continue our focus on JLL's exciting future growth potential in Asia, and particularly in China," added Christian Ulbrich, JLL CEO.

In addition to Mehta and Ulbrich, current members of the Board include Hugo Bague, Matthew Carter, Jr., Samuel A. Di Piazza, Jr., Bridget Macaskill, Deborah H. McAneny, Jeetu Patel, Sheila A. Penrose and Ann Marie Petach. Ming Lu and Martin H. Nesbitt have stepped down from the Board, also effective today.

About JLL

JLL (NYSE: JLL) is a leading professional services firm that specializes in real estate and investment management. JLL shapes the future of real estate for a better world by using the most advanced technology to create rewarding opportunities, amazing spaces and sustainable real estate solutions for our clients, our people and our communities. JLL is a Fortune 500 company with annual revenue of $16.6 billion in 2020, operations in over 80 countries and a global workforce of more than 91,000 as of March 31, 2021. JLL is the brand name, and a registered trademark, of Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated. For further information, visit ir.jll.com.

Connect with us

https://www.linkedin.com/company/jll

https://www.facebook.com/jll

https://twitter.com/jll

https://www.instagram.com/jll

Contact: Gayle Kantro

Phone: +312 228 2795

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE JLL-IR

Related Links

http://www.ir.jll.com


WILMINGTON, Del., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Chemours Company has been selected by Johnson Controls, the global leader in smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, to provide Opteon XL41 (R-454B) as the future refrigerant solution for their ducted residential and commercial HVAC products, as well as its air-cooled scroll chiller applications. This decision supports Johnson Controls sustainability goals in transitioning away from the use of high global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants, such as R-410A, reinforcing their commitment to addressing climate change and lowering customers' emissions. Chemours is a recognized leader in providing sustainable, low GWP refrigerant solutions - driving commercial readiness and the adoption of next-generation refrigerants in the HVACR industry.

Opteon XL41 is a low GWP (AR4: 466), non-ozone depleting refrigerant that offers a 78% reduction in GWP while improving energy efficiency and lowering charge size when compared to R-410A. This refrigerant offers manufacturers the ability to achieve their long-term carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) emission reduction goals and requires minimal design modifications due to its similar operating temperature and pressure to R-410A. Opteon XL41 provides the optimal balance of performance, safety and longevity for future air conditioning applications.

"We are excited to assist Johnson Controls with meeting their customer needs by providing them a next-generation refrigerant solution that offers a lower GWP and improved energy efficiency for their future residential and commercial HVAC applications, as well as its air-cooled scroll chillers," said Alisha Bellezza, President of Thermal & Specialized Solutions at Chemours. "Chemours is dedicated to partnering with our customers and the broader HVACR community with technologies that help achieve their sustainability goals while minimizing environmental impact to support the phase down of hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) in the United States."

Future regulatory requirements on CO 2 emission reduction will stimulate the transition to lower GWP refrigerants. Opteon XL41 has the lowest EPA SNAP1 approved GWP for unitary applications of all ASHRAE classified A2L (low-toxicity, mild flammability) refrigerants in the HVAC industry today - much lower than the pending 750 GWP limits being proposed. It is compatible with plastic and elastomer materials and POE oil that will minimize working capital design changes and enable an easier transition from a R-410A platform.

"After evaluating several low-GWP alternatives on a variety of performance and market metrics, such as safety, capacity, efficiency, reliability, availability and longevity, we've determined R-454B, sold by The Chemours Company as Opteon XL41, to be the best-in-class low-GWP refrigerant," said Katie McGinty, vice president and chief sustainability, government and regulatory affairs officer, Johnson Controls. "This decision reinforces our continued commitment to developing solutions that help transform the environments where people live, work, learn and play, and advances our goal of helping our customers achieve a 16% reduction in emissions by 2030."

This decision was made as the HVAC industry is preparing to phase out high-GWP refrigerants, which are now being formally addressed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through the recently passed American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act2.

Chemours has been collaborating with industry partners to develop sustainable solutions that provide the performance today demands to achieve the goals of tomorrow. As part of the transition to support the regulatory mandates to phase down HFCs, Chemours will continue to offer cutting-edge technologies, education and ongoing training to value chain partners and the HVACR community.

1 Lowest GWP rating of EPA SNAP approved alternatives as of the publishing of this notice.

2 https://www.epa.gov/climate-hfcs-reduction/aim-act

About The Chemours Company

The Chemours Company (Chemours or the 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, Nafion, Krytox, Teflon, and Viton. 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.

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:

NEWS MEDIA

Cassie Olszewski

Media Relations and Financial Communications Manager

+1.302.219.7140

[email protected]

INVESTORS

Jonathan Lock

VP, Corporate Development and Investor Relations

+1.302.773.2263

[email protected]

SOURCE The Chemours Company

Related Links

www.chemours.com


PITTSBURGH, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Kennametal (NYSE: KMT) announced today that they will virtually attend the KeyBanc Industrials & Basic Materials Conference.

Details of the conference are as follows:

When: Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Attendees: Damon Audia, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Kelly Boyer, Vice President, Investor Relations

About Kennametal

With over 80 years as an industrial technology leader, Kennametal Inc. delivers productivity to customers through materials science, tooling and wear-resistant solutions. Customers across aerospace, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation turn to Kennametal to help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Every day approximately 9,000 employees are helping customers in more than 60 countries stay competitive. Kennametal generated nearly $1.9 billion in revenues in fiscal 2020. Learn more at www.kennametal.com. Follow @Kennametal: Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

SOURCE Kennametal Inc.

Related Links

http://www.kennametal.com


Record revenues of $2.8 million in Q1 2021, a 49% increase from the prior year and 13% increase from Q4 2020

in Q1 2021, a 49% increase from the prior year and 13% increase from Q4 2020 Record gross profits (before fair market value adjustments) of $1.1 million , a 171% improvement over Q4 2020 and record consolidated gross margin of 38%

, a 171% improvement over Q4 2020 and record consolidated gross margin of 38% Medical cannabis sales reach 20% of revenues, contributing over 45% of gross profits

More than 7,500 prescriptions filled in Q1 2021 and over 19,000 to date

First sales in Germany achieved in Q1 2021, with international sales representing approximately 10% of total Medical Cannabis Product revenues

achieved in Q1 2021, with international sales representing approximately 10% of total Medical Cannabis Product revenues Khiron real-world evidence is improving physician engagement, patient outcomes and strategic decision-making; initial results show significant benefits to quality of life as well as significant cost benefit to key insurance clients

$12.5 million in cash as of March 31, 2021 with working capital of $22.5 million

TORONTO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Khiron Life Sciences Corp. ("Khiron" or the "Company") (TSXV: KHRN) (OTCQX: KHRNF)(Frankfurt: A2JMZC), a vertically integrated cannabis leader with core operations in Latin America and Europe, announced today its financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2021. These filings are available for review on the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. All financial information in this press release is reported in Canadian dollars, unless otherwise indicated.

Summary of Key Financial Results



3 Months 3 Months 3 Months

ended Mar ended Mar ended Dec Canadian dollars 31 2021 31 2020 31 2020

$ $ $ Revenues ('000s) 2,837 1,901 2,518 Medical Cannabis 563 1 234 Gross profit before fair value adjustments ('000s) 1,090 437 402 General and administrative costs ('000s) 5,592 5,847 5,157 Net loss ('000s) (5,494) (9,237) (2,374) Adjusted EBITDA (1) ('000s) (4,019) (5,865) (4,335) Net loss per share (basic and diluted) (0.04) (0.08) (0.01) Weighted average shares outstanding ('000s) 150,718 116,607 130,292

(1) Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization or in this case loss) is a non-International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") measure calculated as net loss before tax as reported under IFRS and adding back share-based compensation expense, transaction fees, unrealized gain on changes in fair value of biological assets, depreciation and non-recurring items. Refer to the "Non-IFRS Measures" note below for further information and the Company's MD&A for a reconciliation.

Q1 2021 operating highlights and subsequent events

Insurance coverage in Colombia continues to be a catalyst for growth, with more than 7,500 prescriptions filled in Q1 2021 and over 19,000 prescriptions filled to date. With continued month-over-month growth, Q2 2021 continues to build on the achievements of Q1 2021.

continues to be a catalyst for growth, with more than 7,500 prescriptions filled in Q1 2021 and over 19,000 prescriptions filled to date. With continued month-over-month growth, Q2 2021 continues to build on the achievements of Q1 2021. Insurance coverage continues to improve patient access to medical cannabis, with the percentage of prescriptions issued and covered by insurance increasing from over 40% in Q4 2020 to over 60% in Q1 2021.

Returning medical cannabis patients in Colombia reached nearly 50% in Q1 2021, as compared to approximately 20% in Q3 2020, providing a more stable Medical Cannabis revenue base.

reached nearly 50% in Q1 2021, as compared to approximately 20% in Q3 2020, providing a more stable Medical Cannabis revenue base. Khiron real-world evidence is improving physician engagement, patient outcomes and strategic decision-making.

Initial analysis of Khiron medical cannabis patient data for various neuropathic conditions shows a significant reduction in the intake of other medications (including opioids), improved quality of life, and material annual savings. Khiron's patient data continues to mount and will provide real-world evidence for pharmacoeconomic studies intended to support the Company's goal of reaching more patients.

Following the initial success of its Medellin satellite clinic, the Company opened five additional satellite clinics in Colombia in 2021, for a total of nine clinics including the three health centres in Bogota and six satellite clinics across the country.

satellite clinic, the Company opened five additional satellite clinics in in 2021, for a total of nine clinics including the three health centres in and six satellite clinics across the country. Khiron recently partnered with the Colombia Cancer League to deliver an additional 3,000 medical cannabis patient consultations during the month of June, in collaboration with 21 leading medical institutions in 11 cities throughout Colombia .

. Q1 2021 medical cannabis sales in Peru increased by over 175% compared to sales in 2020 (which began late in Q3 2020). Given the positive reception to Khiron products in Peru , the Company expects to open its first international Zerenia satellite clinic in Peru in the coming weeks.

increased by over 175% compared to sales in 2020 (which began late in Q3 2020). Given the positive reception to Khiron products in , the Company expects to open its first international Zerenia satellite clinic in in the coming weeks. The Company plans to deploy its Zerenia medical cannabis clinic and telehealth strategy in Mexico and Brazil , building on the success of its vertical integration strategy in Colombia .

and , building on the success of its vertical integration strategy in . In March 2021 , the Company successfully exported its Colombian-registered cannabis strains, in the form of live clones, from Colombia to Europe .

, the Company successfully exported its Colombian-registered cannabis strains, in the form of live clones, from to . In March 2021 , Khiron commenced sales in Germany with the successful delivery of EU-GMP medical cannabis products. Khiron 1/14 (High CBD flower) has been used to treat indications such as anxiety, substance-use disorder and migraines.

, Khiron commenced sales in with the successful delivery of EU-GMP medical cannabis products. Khiron 1/14 (High CBD flower) has been used to treat indications such as anxiety, substance-use disorder and migraines. The Company continues to advance its operations in the UK. In April 2021 , the Company introduced Khiron 1/14 (High CBD flower) in addition to 5-gram jars of flower products. In addition, the Company's medical cannabis e-learning certification, Khiron Academy, recently received accreditation for Continuing Professional Development credits in the UK.

Discussion of Operations for the Three Months Ending March 31, 2021

During the first quarter of 2021, the Company reported record revenues of $2.8 million, a 49% increase as compared to Q1 2020 due to normalized clinic operations and the growth of medical cannabis sales. Relative to Q4 2020, first quarter revenues increased 13% due to a 141% increase in Medical Cannabis Product sales, which reached $563,000 in the quarter, as the Company benefited from medical cannabis insurance coverage in its core market of Colombia.

At $1.1 million, or 38% of revenues, the Company achieved record gross profits due to increasing Medical Cannabis Product sales and margin improvements within the Health Services segment. Notably, Medical Cannabis margins remained high at 90% of revenues, while Health Service margins increased to 26% of revenues in Q1 2021, from 7% in Q4 2020.

In Q1 2021, the Company incurred lower general and administrative costs as compared to Q1 2020 due cost cutting measures implemented in the second quarter of 2020 and the devaluation of the Colombian peso. Overall, the Company recorded a net loss of $5.5 million in Q1 2021, which compares to a net loss of $9.2 million in Q1 2020 and $2.4 million in Q4 2020. Adjusted EBITDA losses of $4.0 million compared to losses of $5.9 million in Q1 2020 due to ongoing cost management initiatives and improved sales and margins.

Management Commentary

"Q1 was a record quarter for the company, in terms of both revenues and gross profits, driven by strong results in our Medical Cannabis segment, which achieved another quarter of more than 100% growth. Insurance coverage for medical cannabis in Colombia continues to have a positive impact, providing greater revenue stability as returning patients reached 50% of medical cannabis patient volumes in Q1. I am also happy to report that our gross profits were well above Q4 2020, driven by strong clinic performance and growth from our vertical integrated medical cannabis strategy. As of April, prescriptions in Colombia were already equal to 44% of those filled in Q1, positioning us for another record quarter in Q2," comments Alvaro Torres, Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Company.

"In Europe, our world-class team continues to execute, recently delivering first sales in Germany and a strategic partnership with Cellen Therapeutics, a leader in digital healthcare in the UK and fellow founding member of Project Twenty21. We also received UK CPD accreditation for our global medical cannabis education platform, Khiron Academy, and imported the first ever live cannabis clones from Colombia to Europe. Collectively, these achievements will help us deliver on our mission of improving patients' lives by increasing access to medical cannabis products both at home and abroad," continued Alvaro Torres.

Webcast Details

Khiron invites individual and institutional investors, as well as advisors and analysts, to attend a webcast and Q&A to discuss the Company's Q1 2021 financial statements and further activities.

DATE: May 28, 2021

TIME: 10:00am ET/7:00am PT

PRESENTERS: Alvaro Torres, Khiron Chief Executive Officer and Director, Joel Friedman, Khiron Chief Financial Officer, and Chris Naprawa, Chairman of Khiron's Board of Directors

FORMAT: Live 30 minutes presentation & Q&A session

REGISTER LINK:

https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/3196006/0652A31C731C234FE0C2F998FCEBFFEB

About Khiron Life Sciences Corp.

Khiron is a vertically integrated medical and CPG cannabis company with core operations in Latin America, and operational activity in Europe and North America. Khiron is the leading medical cannabis provider in Colombia and the first company licensed in Colombia for the cultivation, production, domestic distribution and sales, and international export of both low and high THC medical cannabis products. The Company has filled medical cannabis prescriptions in Colombia, Peru, Germany and the United Kingdom, and is positioned to commence sales in Mexico and Brazil in 2021.

Leveraging wholly-owned medical clinics and proprietary telemedicine platforms, Khiron combines a patient-oriented approach, physician education programs, scientific expertise, product innovation, and agricultural infrastructure to drive prescriptions and brand loyalty. Its Wellbeing unit launched the first branded CBD skincare brand in Colombia, with KuidaTM now marketed in multiple jurisdictions in Latin America, the US and United Kingdom. The Company is led by Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Alvaro Torres, together with an experienced and diverse executive team and Board of Directors.

Visit Khiron online at investors.khiron.ca and on Instagram @khironlife.

Cautionary Notes

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All information contained herein that is not historical in nature may constitute forward-looking information. Khiron undertakes no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third-parties in respect of Khiron, its securities, or financial or operating results (as applicable). Although Khiron believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements in this press release are reasonable, such forward-looking statement has been based on expectations, factors and assumptions concerning future events which may prove to be inaccurate and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond Khiron's control, including the risk factors discussed in Khiron's Annual Information Form which is available on Khiron's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement and is made as of the date hereof. Khiron disclaims any intention and has no obligation or responsibility, except as required by law, to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

Investor Contact:

Paola Ricardo

E: [email protected]

T: +1 (647) 556-5750

Media Contact:

Elsa Navarro

Vice President, Communications

E: [email protected]

Khiron Europe:

Tejinder Virk

Europe President

E: [email protected]

SOURCE Khiron Life Sciences Corp.

Related Links

https://khiron.ca/


VAN NUYS, Calif., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A former Patient Services Liaison, represented by employee rights firm Kyle Todd, P.C., and former employee of Southern California Medical Center ("SoCal Medical") is claiming that she faced severe sexual harassment, including being forced to perform egregious sexual acts, for four years. In her complaint in arbitration filed on April 14, 2021, this individual, who wishes to remain anonymous, claims she was subjected to this heinous sexual harassment and assault by her former doctor, turned employer, Mohammed Rasekhi ("Rasekhi").

In the lawsuit, the employee states that Rasekhi sexually harassed and assaulted her for years both in and out of the workplace. Rasekhi inquired into employee's sexual activities, the case claims, demanded her to touch his genitals in his back office, rubbed and kissed her in his office, and promoted her for defending him in a prior sexual harassment lawsuit brought by a former co-worker.

The most egregious and horrifying act Rasekhi committed included luring this individual to his apartment under the guise of a lunch performance review and proceeding to rape her, the employee claims. This all occurred, the matter alleges, after this individual had been a patient of Rasekhi's from age 12 until adulthood when she transitioned to being Rasekhi's employee.

The aggrieved employee is represented by attorneys Kyle Todd, Esq. of Kyle Todd, P.C. Requests for comment can be directed to Mr. Todd, at (323) 208-9171.

SOURCE Kyle Todd, PC

Related Links

https://www.kyletodd.com


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 of the 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 Legal Services market. The report also aids buyers with relevant Legal Services 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 have 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.

Identify favorable opportunities in Promotional Products 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 Legal Services suppliers listed in this report:

This Legal Services procurement intelligence report has enlisted the top suppliers and their cost structures, SLA terms, best selection criteria, and negotiation strategies.

Linklaters LLP

DLA Piper LLP

Pinsent Masons LLP

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

CMS Legal Services EEIG

White & Case LLP

Related Report on Managed Services Include:

To access the definite purchasing guide on the Legal Services that answers all your key questions on price trends and analysis:

Am I paying/getting the right prices? Is my Legal Services TCO (total cost of ownership) favorable?

How is the price forecast expected to change? What is driving the current and future price changes?

Which pricing models offer the most rewarding opportunities?

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

About SpendEdge:

SpendEdge shares your passion for driving sourcing and procurement excellence. We are the preferred procurement market intelligence partner for 120+ Fortune 500 firms and other leading companies across numerous industries. Our strength lies in delivering robust, real-time procurement market intelligence reports and solutions.

To know more https://www.spendedge.com/request-for-demo

Contacts:

SpendEdge

Anirban Choudhury

Marketing Manager

Ph No: +1 (872) 206-9340

https://www.spendedge.com/contact-us

SOURCE SpendEdge

Related Links

http://www.spendedge.com


Through Read in Color, Tulsa will have more access to books that feature diverse characters, cultures and content.

LFL and HarperCollins Publishers partnered to bring Read in Color to Tulsa and will launch the initiative in four more cities this year: Washington, D.C., Detroit, Atlanta and Phoenix. Additional Read in Color cities launching in 2021 are New York, Boston, Kalamazoo, Mich. and Ferguson, Mo. Scholastic is also providing generous support for the 2021 Read in Color efforts.

"Little Free Library believes that sharing diverse author perspectives across our nation's communities deepens empathy and awareness," said LFL Executive Director Greig Metzger. "This task is large but when advocates join together, significant gains can be made."

"We are honored to be in Tulsa to launch the national rollout of Read in Color in collaboration with HarperCollins Publishers' Read in Full Color and Scholastic Books' The Power of Story," he continued. "These robust, diverse book offerings combined with the local programming and placement assistance of Reading Partners Tulsa, will bring our Read in Color program to 26 local elementary schools this year. We are excited to mark the start of our national expansion with such great allies."

As part of the initiative, HarperCollins Publishers is offering 100 copies of I Promise by LeBron James, with illustrations by Nina Mata, for a national giveaway. Artwork from I Promise, part of their "Read in Full Color" initiative, decorates the Tulsa Little Free Library unveiled today. Readers across the country can enter to win a copy of I Promise here .

"HarperCollins is thrilled to be partnering with Little Free Library in conjunction with our own 'Read in Full Color' initiative, which spotlights diverse creators and inclusive stories," said Nellie Kurtzman, VP Marketing & Publicity, HarperCollins Children's Publishing. "The books under our 'Read in Full Color' umbrella reflect the narratives of the young readers picking them up for the first time and serve as a reminder that these books are important, necessary and in demand."

Lizette Serrano, Scholastic's VP Educational Marketing, said, "When Read in Color launched last year, we were honored to play a part to align with Scholastic's initiative, 'The Power of Story'. At its core, Read in Color will encourage book ownership in more communities and help to grow lifelong readers. Our joint effort in choosing the books that reflect the experiences of young readers of color will inspire them to be true to themselves, embrace who they are and empower them to tell their own stories."

'Read in Color' in Tulsa

The Reading Partners Tulsa region is a vital partner in Tulsa's Read in Color rollout. Reading Partners, a nonprofit organization that tutors children in reading skills, participated in the planning and placement of the Little Free Libraries, and will help keep them filled with books.

As the Tulsa community commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Tulsa Race Massacre, organizers of The Black Wall Street Legacy Festival support partnerships that are bringing resources to the community and amplifying voices that share similar experiences to local students.

"We're so excited that through the Little Free Library and Reading Partners partnership students, families and the greater community will have more access to texts that feature diverse characters, cultures and content," said Dr. Tiffany Crutcher, Founder of the Terence Crutcher Foundation and the Black Wall Street Memorial.

LFL's national Read in Color initiative, which was introduced in Minneapolis last year in response to George Floyd's murder, has four key components:

Read in Color pledge, allowing everyone to show their support for diverse books and access downloadable resources. Little Free Library installations full of culturally relevant books, placed in high-need communities. Free diverse books for applying LFL stewards, purchased from independent and BIPOC-owned bookstores when possible. Recommended reading lists representing Black, Indigenous, Asian American/Pacific Islander, Latinx, Muslim, LGBTQ+ and other communities.

Get involved: To learn more and sign the Read in Color pledge visit LittleFreeLibrary.org/Read-In-Color .

About Little Free Library:

Little Free Library (LFL) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that builds community, inspires readers, and expands book access for all through a global network of volunteer-led Little Free Libraries. LFL received the 2020 World Literacy Award as well as honors from the Library of Congress and National Book Foundation. There are more than 100,000 registered Little Free Library book-sharing boxes worldwide in all 50 states, 110 countries and 7 continents; through them, more than 200 million books have been shared. LittleFreeLibrary.org .

About HarperCollins Children's Books:

HarperCollins Children's Books is one of the leading publishers of children's and teen books. Respected worldwide for its tradition of publishing quality, award-winning books for young readers, HarperCollins is home to many timeless treasures and bestsellers such as Charlotte's Web, Goodnight Moon, Where the Sidewalk Ends, Where the Wild Things Are, and The Hate U Give; series including The Chronicles of Narnia, Ramona, Warriors, A Series of Unfortunate Events, Pete the Cat, Fancy Nancy, Divergent, and Red Queen; and graphic and illustrated novels such as Nimona, Invisible Emmie, and New Kid. Consistently at the forefront of digital innovation, HarperCollins Children's Books delights readers through engaging storytelling across a variety of formats and platforms, including the largest young adult (YA) book community, Epic Reads. HarperCollins Children's Books is a division of HarperCollins Publishers, which is the second largest consumer book publisher in the world, has operations in 17 countries, and is a subsidiary of News Corp. You can visit HarperCollins Children's Books at www.harpercollinschildrens.com and www.epicreads.com and HarperCollins Publishers at corporate.HC.com .

About Scholastic:

For more than 100 years, Scholastic has been a partner to schools. Today, it is the world's largest publisher and distributor of children's books, a leading provider of literacy curriculum, professional services and classroom magazines, and a producer of engaging children's media. www.scholastic.com

Media Contact: Margret Aldrich

612-203-6856 / [email protected]

SOURCE Little Free Library

Related Links

www.littlefreelibrary.org


Father's Day is the perfect time to live a little PURA, which means doing the little things every day that make a difference. One option for living a little PURA on Father's Day is to do the chores and tasks that normally keep Dad busy, so he can enjoy his day and kick back with a tasty beverage. If that beverage is a can of PURA Soda, its refreshing taste and seeing his kids living a little PURA will ensure dad has a truly satisfying Father's Day.

PURA Soda produces naturally flavored carbonated drinks perfect for dads who are looking after their health, but still enjoy the taste of a soda. Each can of PURA Soda contains just 65 calories with no artificial sweeteners, artificial colors, animal byproducts, or synthetic ingredients. PURA Soda is made with just a few ingredients: highly carbonated soda water, a bit of citric acid, natural flavors, and a sprinkle of cane sugar to sweeten the drink. PURA Soda comes in five flavors: cranberry, Seville orange, cucumber & lime, lemon & Elderflower, and pomegranate.

With its natural flavors, low sugar level, and simple formulation, PURA Soda offers a delicious and fun way for dads to live healthier lives while quenching their thirst.

About PURA Soda

Based in Cape Town, South Africa, PURA Soda is a global brand, exporting to 13 countries including the US, UAE and UK. In 2019, they won kudos at the Aurora International Taste Challenge, thrilling expert tasters, and being named as the "Best Tasting Non-alcoholic Beverage." Continuing this winning streak, PURA Soda was then named as the "Best Cold Beverage" at Product of the Year 2020, the world's largest consumer-voted award for product innovation. Pura Soda can be found at Albertson's, Safeway, HEB Central Market, Tom Thumb, Randall's, and Market Street as well as on Amazon.

For more information about PURA Soda, visit livealittlepura.com.

Join the PURA Soda community on Facebook at PURA Soda - Home | Facebook

SOURCE PURA Soda

Related Links

http://www.livealittlepura.com


Astra Continues Security Products And Services Strategy Tweet this

Partners in the venture include Astra Veda Corporation, Egres Enterprises and Rift Management Inc. (RMI). Astra is focused on co-founding technology companies and incubate them to success. "We are following through on our long-term strategy of creating products and services for cyber security and life protection industries by investing in Bullet BarrierTM ", stated Davis. "Our team in Finland with its quantum computing resistant encryption and Sayphr platform are examples of this leadership directive", Davis continued. Funding, financial oversight and corporate governance are the primary responsibilities of Astra in the partnership.

Egres Enterprises, led by Ron Egres, is a firm specializing in ballistic resistant materials with deep connections to suppliers, test facilities and industry standards groups. "The life protection market has been a focus for me over most of my career. The opportunity to use this experience to develop Bullet BarrierTM products is personally rewarding.", says Egres. Egres Enterprises will be responsible for the roll goods development.

RMI assists businesses in commercializing products and services. Andy Finch from RMI said, "Few companies have such a high demand before their product launches. The need for large-format, cost-effective life protection products is tremendous." RMI will be the managing partner for BBP and will be delivering a certified product to the joint venture.

The BBP team is currently procuring equipment and materials to construct the initial production facility.

On other matters, the Astra Veda compliance team is still working with FINRA and OTC Markets providing information for financial filings. The Company continues to remediate securities defects and engage in legal action holding the previous goverance to a full accounting.

Contact:

[email protected]

SOURCE Astra Veda Corporation

Related Links

https://www.astra-veda.com


Drill hole 21-57 intersected the new zone, with results coming in as high as 892.25 grams per ton silver equivalent over 10 metres

The San Diego property is among the largest undeveloped silver assets in Mexico and is located within the prolific Velardena Mining District

Golden Tag Resources Ltd ( ) ( ) revealed a new zone of epithermal mineralization on its San Diego project in Mexico.

Drill hole 21-57 intersected the new zone, with results coming in as high as 892.25 grams per ton silver equivalent (AgEq) over 10 metres and 115.33 g/t AgEq over 5.54 metres.

Toronto-based Golden Tag said that two previously unreported zones of mineralization in a historic drill hole may be related to the newly-discovered mineralization in hole 21-57. The historic hole was drilled around 10 metres east of 21-57 and intersected 213.85 g/t AgEq over 2 metres, while another hole intersected 404.29 g/t AgEq over 3.75 metres nearly 55 metres north-northeast of 21-57.

Epithermal mineralization at San Diego differs from the more typically seen skarn mineralization on the project because the gold and silver grades are significantly higher, Golden Tag said in a statement.

"We were pleasantly surprised to have discovered this new mineralization, located at the top of hole 21-57 approximately 500 metres above the planned target area, CEO Greg McKenzie told investors.

This is a significant discovery because it opens up the potential for epithermal type mineralization on the San Diego Project, above and beyond the broad skarn mineralization typically encountered. Our next phase of drilling will attempt to follow up and expand upon this discovery.

The San Diego property is among the largest undeveloped silver assets in Mexico and is located within the prolific Velardena Mining District. Golden Tag owns a 100% interest in the project, subject to a 2% NSR.

Contact Angela at angela@proactiveinvestors.com

Follow her on Twitter @AHarmantas
MEXICO CITY, May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Maxcom Telecomunicaciones S.A.B. de C.V. (B.M.V.: MAXCOM A, O.T.C.: MXMTY) (" Maxcom " or the " Company ") announced today that in accordance with the relevant event published on April 26, 2021, and in order to maximize its short-term financial flexibility, the Company has decided not to make the semi-annual interest payment on its 8% Senior Secured Notes due 2024 ("the Notes") during the corresponding 30-day grace period.

Maxcom's liquidity has been negatively affected by the pandemic and by restricted access to sources of capital as a result of a dispute with the Mexican tax authorities. Maxcom is forced to sustain this measure in order to prioritize the use of cash resources for operating activities and ensure its business continuity.

Maxcom reiterates that it continues analyzing strategic solutions and financial alternatives that will allow the company to consolidate its value proposition in the long term and comply, to the extent possible, with its financial duties in the benefit of all its stakeholders.

Maxcom confirms its commitment to maintaining close communication with the investment public.

About Maxcom

Maxcom Telecomunicaciones, S.A.B. de C.V. is headquartered in Mexico City and is a facilities-based telecommunications provider using a "smart-build" approach to deliver "last-mile" connectivity to enterprises and residential customers in Mexico.

Maxcom launched commercial operations in May 1999 and is currently offing local and long-distance telephony services; wired, wireless and cellular data transmission and value-added services in Mexico City metropolitan area, Monterrey, Puebla, Queretaro, Leon, Guadalajara, San Luis Potosi, Tehuacan, and Toluca, as well as in other cities in Mexico. The information contained in this press release is the exclusive responsibility of Maxcom Telecomunicaciones, S.A.B. de C.V. and has not been reviewed by the Mexican National Banking and Securities Commission (CNBV) or any other authority.

The trading of these securities by an investor is the sole responsibility of such investor.

SOURCE Maxcom Telecomunicaciones, S.A.B. de C.V.

Related Links

http://www.maxcom.com


- Tuesday, June 1st  3:30 p.m. ET -

MISSISSAUGA, ON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Nuvo Pharmaceuticals Inc. (TSX: MRV) (OTCQX: MRVFF) d/b/a Miravo Healthcare (Miravo or the Company), a Canadian focused healthcare company with global reach and a diversified portfolio of commercial products, has been invited to present at the Summer Solstice  Best Ideas from the Buy-Side conference, which is being held virtually on June 1st  4th, 2021. Jesse Ledger, Miravo's President & Chief Executive Officer and Mary-Jane Burkett, Miravo's Vice President & Chief Financial Officer will be presenting at the conference.

DATE: Tuesday, June 1st,, 2021 TIME: 3:30 p.m. ET LIVE PRESENTATION /

REPLAY LINK: https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/2134/41516

Management will be available for one-on-one meetings to be held throughout the conference. Investors can register here.

About the MicroCap Rodeo Summer Solstice Best Ideas Conference

The MicroCap Rodeo is back with its third "Best Ideas Bowl." This conference is a virtual conference that brings you the top 35 best ideas from the buy side. Qualified institutional investors recommended each of the 35 companies represented as one of their best ideas. Those of you who attended the 2019 MicroCap Rodeo in Austin, Texas, know that we're focused on alpha. To receive additional information, request an invitation or to schedule a one-on-one meeting, please email to:[email protected].

About Miravo Healthcare

Miravo is a Canadian focused, healthcare company with global reach and a diversified portfolio of commercial products. The Company's products target several therapeutic areas, including pain, allergy, neurology and dermatology. The Company's strategy is to in-license and acquire growth-oriented, complementary products for Canadian and international markets. Miravo's head office is located in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, the international operations are located in Dublin, Ireland and the Company's manufacturing facility is located in Varennes, Quebec, Canada. The Varennes facility operates in a Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) environment respecting the U.S, Canada and E.U. GMP regulations and is regularly inspected by Health Canada and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. For additional information, please visit www.miravohealthcare.com.

SOURCE Nuvo Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Related Links

nuvopharmaceuticals.com


LOS ANGELES, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- MUFG, a global financial group, today announced the release of its 2020 Corporate Social Responsibility Report, Resiliency and Progress: Corporate Social Responsibility in 2020, which details the company's efforts over its past fiscal year in environmental stewardship, community reinvestment, colleague support, and advancing racial equity. Following the unprecedented events of the pandemic year, the company is honored to recognize the hard work of its employees in continuing to put the needs of their communities at the heart of their work.

The report includes efforts of MUFG throughout the Americas and highlights the initiatives of its retail operation, Union Bank, from April 2020 through March 2021. In June 2020, Union Bank established its Community Recovery Program, a $10 million initiative aimed at addressing social and racial injustices in the United States. Specifically focused on building economic stability, including supporting access to capital, entrepreneurship, job retention and retraining, the Community Recovery Program has already distributed grants totaling $3.3 million to over 125 community organizations during its first year. Funding for the program represents a portion of the fees Union Bank received processing Paycheck Protection Program loans.

"The last year required all of us to rise to challenges at an extraordinary velocity. Together we addressed urgent client, community and colleague needs and concerns with thoughtful consideration and a compassionate response," said Julius Robinson, Managing Director and Head of Social Responsibility for the Americas. "I'm so proud of our colleagues who worked tirelessly to help our clients and communities stay afloat. This report reflects those stories of dedication. And while the pandemic isn't fully behind us, we can look toward the future with hope and optimism."

Topics in the report include:

Helping secure $2.7 billion of loans to 14,000 small business clients under the initial two phases of the Small Business Administration's Paycheck Protection Program.

of loans to 14,000 small business clients under the initial two phases of the Small Business Administration's Paycheck Protection Program. Helping our employees throughout the pandemic, including providing all Union Bank branch staff relief pay of up to $2,000 .

. Union Bank colleagues logged more than 33,000 hours of volunteerism to various causes and organizations.

More than $250 million was allocated for products and services provided by certified Diverse Business Suppliers.

was allocated for products and services provided by certified Diverse Business Suppliers. More than $830 million in multi-family affordable housing lending.

in multi-family affordable housing lending. MUFG Americas contributed $29.2 billion in sustainable finance.

Sections of the report are also available in Portuguese and Spanish in recognition of the diversity of the company's workforce. More information can be found on the company's website here.

About MUFG

About MUFG Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc. (MUFG) is one of the world's leading financial groups. Headquartered in Tokyo and with over 360 years of history, MUFG has a global network with around 2,500 locations in more than 50 countries. The Group has over 180,000 employees and offers services including commercial banking, trust banking, securities, credit cards, consumer finance, asset management, and leasing. The Group aims to "be the world's most trusted financial group" through close collaboration among our operating companies and flexibly respond to all of the financial needs of our customers, serving society, and fostering shared and sustainable growth for a better world. MUFG's shares trade on the Tokyo, Nagoya, and New York stock exchanges. For more information, visit https://www.mufg.jp/english.

2021 Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

The MUFG logo and name is a service mark of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.

Press contact:

Erika Montelongo

Mobile: (818) 425-0998

[email protected]

SOURCE MUFG
The Respiratory Disease Young Investigators' Forum seeks to increase the number of physician-scientists through a program that includes mentoring, peer networking, coaching, scientific presentation skills, education and encouragement for fellows and early career faculty.

The Forum provides the opportunity to present research to a panel of national experts who serve as mentors.

The Forum, which will be held in person, provides the opportunity to present research to a panel of national experts who serve as mentors and real-world examples of physician-scientists who have had an impact on respiratory medicine through their research.

The three-day program will include mentoring and networking opportunities with peers and experts, and formal presentations of research with pediatric or adult populations in asthma, COPD, COVID-19, cystic fibrosis, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary fibrosis, bronchiectasis, sleep disorders and other respiratory diseases.

"Part of our role as academic physicians is to raise the next generation of researchers and that's what we do here," said Barry Make, MD, Program Co-Chair. "We want them to focus on a single project and consider why is this project important? What did you find and what are you going to do next? What are the implications for the future for the patients with lung disease?"

Fellows and junior faculty in pulmonary, allergy and immunology, pediatric, and related programs are encouraged to apply. Thirty investigators will be selected and invited to present their research at the Forum based on the following criteria: scientific importance, quality of research, whether the research will enhance knowledge, whether the research answers a question, and overall presentation of the abstract. The top three presentations in basic science and clinical research will earn monetary awards. Abstracts can be submitted here.

"The [2020] forum gave me an unparalleled opportunity to learn from talented colleagues nationwide at a similar career stage and to benefit from senior faculty expertise," said Dinah Foer, MD, of Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, the 2020 Basic Science Research Winner. "I came away from the three days feeling inspired by my peers, recommitted to my research goals, and supported by a larger network of physicianscientists who are deeply devoted to science and to promoting each other's career development."

National Jewish Health, the nation's leading respiratory hospital, is committed to developing the next generation of physician-scientists through the sponsorship of the Respiratory Disease Young Investigators' Forum. This activity is supported by an educational grant from AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP.

More information on abstract submission guidelines, the agenda, and program format can be found here: njhealth.org/YIF2021.

National Jewish Health is the leading respiratory hospital in the nation. Founded 122 years ago as a nonprofit hospital, National Jewish Health today is the only facility in the world dedicated exclusively to groundbreaking medical research and treatment of patients with respiratory, cardiac, immune and related disorders. Patients and families come to National Jewish Health from around the world to receive cutting-edge, comprehensive, coordinated care. To learn more, visit www.njhealth.org.

SOURCE National Jewish Health

Related Links

http://www.nationaljewish.org


In conjunction with 30 Americans , the Arlington Independent School District (AISD) and the College Town Renaissance Center (CTRC) will present complementary exhibits, which will offer a detailed and nuanced look at the work of Black artists over the past several decades.

The AISD will showcase Jacob Lawrence: 3 Series of Prints. This will be the school district's first exhibit in its brand-new Center for Visual and Performing Arts.

The CTRC's exhibit, which also opens May 29, is called + 20 More, and it features works by 20 African American emerging artists in a variety of styles and media.

Taken together, the works shown in these locations make an important contribution to the ongoing American dialogue on race, culture, and social justice. The exhibition provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity for art lovers in North Texas and contributes to the cultural and artistic character of the region.

"More than a visually vivid showcase, the exhibit brings local leaders, business owners, organizations and creatives together to appreciate the work of Black artists at a time when many people are focused on the history and impact of race in the U.S.," said AMA President and CEO Chis Hightower.

The exhibit features pieces by such seminal Black artists as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Kehinde Wiley, Purvis Young, and Mickalene Thomas. Their works explore topics of race, gender, sexuality, and historical identity in contemporary culture.

The 30 Americans exhibit is open to the general public, as are the exhibits at CTRC and AISD. The three sites  conveniently located in close proximity of one another  provide an opportunity to experience a range of artistic styles within a single visit to downtown Arlington. For more information, visit https://www.arlingtonmuseum.org/30-americans.

For more information:

Lily Williams, Director of Communication & Education

Arlington Museum of Art

817.275.4600

[email protected]

SOURCE Arlington Museum of Art
Upon entering the space, visitors are briefly introduced to the history of fragrance followed by a curated display of vintage perfume bottles from fashion houses such as Guerlain and Lanvin. On loan by Qatar-based antiquities collector, Reem Abu Issa, these ornately designed bottles provide insight into the aesthetic complexity of perfumery branding dating back to the start of the 20 th century. Going back further in time, visitors also learn about several traditional objects still used today for fragrance in the Middle East, whether at special occasions or around the home, like the oud-infused incense bukhoor that's burned inside a diffuser called a mabkhara .

In the center of the chamber sits a table adorned with numbered glass apothecary jars, each containing scented strips with mystery fragrances like myrrh or saffron for guests to identify using only their noses and the references around them for clues. One such reference is the large Fragrance Wheel presiding over the space, a device developed by renowned fragrance expert Michael Edwards for classifying the 14 various fragrance families used in perfumes as part of his work with Fragrances of the World (a partner on QAIC's Perfumery Museum project).

In addition to the launch of the Perfumery Museum, QAIC's Seasonal Social offered many other artistic and cultural activities, including a live violin performance and an outdoor live canvas painting displaying beautiful blend of Arabic and Western cultures. However, the main attraction was a live demonstration on how to make perfume hosted by mother-and-daughter duo, Sherry Meredith and Gretchen Stirling, of DIY Scent Studio. Viewers were introduced to the science of making a personalized scent, of which this demonstration featured a concoction inspired by "Qatar America."

As part of its vision to more than just a physical space with viewable exhibitions and interactive activities, the Perfumery Museum plans to offer future programming uniquely tied to fragrance. With help from partners such as DIY Scent Studio and the Doha-based Perfume Factory, the museum will soon be able to welcome guests to partake in events like DIY perfumery workshops, guest lectures from notable perfumers, or food and fragrance pairings.

The Perfumery Museum is one of several QAIC initiatives focused on the museum experience that combine art and education into an accessible format. QAIC's most recent virtual talks program, the Museum Series, is another program that highlights the insight and careful craft of museum curators and the collections they are dedicated to. The series launched in April 2021 on the topic of Islamic art collections and featured speakers from The Met, LACMA, MFA Houston, The Freer & Sackler Galleries of the Smithsonian, and The Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, Qatar. More information on this series can be found at qataramerica.org/museum-series/.

The Qatar America Institute for Culture is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that creates, curates, and executes programs and research that amplify the prominence of all forms of art and culture from the United States, Qatar, and the larger Arab and Islamic worlds. 2021 is officially the Year of Culture between Qatar and the United States as part of the annual cultural exchange program spearheaded by Qatar Museums. The goal of the initiative is to "promote mutual understanding, recognition and appreciation" between Qatar and the partnering nation of that year.

As a stakeholder in the 2021 Qatar-USA Year of Culture, QAIC is supplementing its programming with even more events and cultural enrichment activities in hopes of highlighting cultural similarities while celebrating the differences. The Perfumery Museum is yet another installment under QAIC's mission where tradition and cross-cultural exchange are made easily accessible to those willing to make the visit. For information on the Perfumery Museum, upcoming attractions, and to schedule a private tour of the space, go to qataramerica.org/perfumery-museum/.

SOURCE Qatar America Institute for Culture (QAIC)

Related Links

qataramerica.org


COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Next PR, an award-winning public relations firm, encouraged team members to get creative and lean into their professional skills to assist more than a dozen organizations with pro bono PR services virtually throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Next PR provides 24 hours of paid volunteer time off (VTO) each year to all team members, and many of the firm's PR pros also donate their personal time to causes that better the communities in which they live and work. During the pandemic, team members reached out to volunteer virtually, donate time and money, and use their PR skills to support companies in need. The team provided services like media pitching, social media training, website auditing and support, video services and more to the organizations listed below.

"For many of the organizations that improve lives in our communities, the pandemic cut off access to in-person volunteer workers just as the need for services was greatest," said Next PR CEO Heather Kelly. "Our team members stepped up to fill the void, volunteering on a virtual basis to help these organizations get media attention to reach people in need, connect with donors and raise awareness, bolstering the effect of charitable efforts. I'm so proud of their work."

By building media relationships, Next PR created and implemented fully integrated strategies that included influencer and social media outreach as well as podcast and digital video engagement, helping organizations that do good in the world tell their stories more effectively. In addition to providing VTO, Next PR works with many startups and nonprofits through the company's Conscious Capitalism program. Learn more at https://www.nextpr.com/culture.

Organizations supported include:

Mother Superior , a venture and social purpose foundry

, a venture and social purpose foundry Inside Out Youth Services , a nonprofit providing a safe space for LGBTQ youth and their allies

, a nonprofit providing a safe space for LGBTQ youth and their allies VISIONS, Inc. , a nonprofit training and consulting organization specializing in diversity and inclusion

, a nonprofit training and consulting organization specializing in diversity and inclusion Generation Hope , a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing poverty one family at a time by providing direct sponsorship and support to teen parents who are attending college

, a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing poverty one family at a time by providing direct sponsorship and support to teen parents who are attending college No More Secrets Mind Body Spirit , a sexuality awareness and counseling nonprofit organization

, a sexuality awareness and counseling nonprofit organization Neopenda , a startup that specializes in making neonatal vital monitors for babies in developing countries

, a startup that specializes in making neonatal vital monitors for babies in developing countries Fighting Children's Cancer Foundation , an independent nonprofit foundation providing financial assistance to families in need who have a child with cancer

, an independent nonprofit foundation providing financial assistance to families in need who have a child with cancer El Paso County Department of Public Health , a county department dedicated to promoting and protecting public health and environmental quality across El Paso County, Colorado

, a county department dedicated to promoting and protecting public health and environmental quality across EBS Children's Institute of Philadelphia , a leading research, training and teaching organization working to advance the field of special education and pediatric therapy

, a leading research, training and teaching organization working to advance the field of special education and pediatric therapy Meadow View Rehabilitation and Nursing Center , a skilled nursing facility offering high quality therapy and care

, a skilled nursing facility offering high quality therapy and care Refugee One , a resettlement agency creating opportunity for refugees fleeing war, terror and persecution to build new lives of safety, dignity and self-reliance

, a resettlement agency creating opportunity for refugees fleeing war, terror and persecution to build new lives of safety, dignity and self-reliance Colorado Palliative and Hospice Care , a community-based organization dedicated to hospice and palliative care

, a community-based organization dedicated to hospice and palliative care The Colorado Springs School , a college preparatory, day and international school serving students from preschool through high school

, a college preparatory, day and international school serving students from preschool through high school Preston County Senior Citizens , an organization promoting the health, independence, dignity and overall well-being of seniors in Preston County, WV

, an organization promoting the health, independence, dignity and overall well-being of seniors in Piedmont Health Center , a community health center committed to helping change the lives of everyone in its communities

, a community health center committed to helping change the lives of everyone in its communities Broomfield FISH , a nonprofit organization that provides food, emergency financial assistance and one-on-one mentoring support to residents in need

, a nonprofit organization that provides food, emergency financial assistance and one-on-one mentoring support to residents in need Cradles to Crayons, a nonprofit supporting children from birth through age 12 who live in homeless or low-income situations, providing them with the essential items needed to thrive

About Next PR

Next PR is an award-winning public relations firm with one major focus: results. Next PR is agile, fresh and hyper-focused on helping clients achieve their next big PR goals. Founded in 1978, the company has offices across the nation in San Francisco, Denver, Colorado Springs, Chicago and Philadelphia. Next PR boasts the best and brightest in public relations, but more than that, it brings the fun  and the motivation  to the daily grind. The company has been named a Top Place to Work by PR News and is consistently recognized by the Dave Thomas Foundation as an Adoption-Friendly Workplace, with many stellar employees selected as PR Rising Stars, Agency Elite Finalists and Communicators of the Year. To inquire about job opportunities at Next PR, check out the open positions across all five of its office locations. Learn more about how Next PR pushes boundaries to help clients launch brands, disrupt industries and engage with the audiences that matter most at nextpr.com.

CONTACT:

Julianne Weinman

(267) 629-9954

[email protected]

SOURCE Next PR

Related Links

https://www.nextpr.com


SINGAPORE and COPENHAGEN, Denmark, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Novo Holdings today announced that it has co-led with Vivo Capital the over-subscribed US$200 million Series A and Crossover round in Esco Lifesciences Group ("Esco"), a leading provider of life sciences tools and services. The financing will enable Esco to strengthen its position through organic and external growth and transformation, as well as invest in China, thus addressing some of the most dynamic market segments and geographies. Other investors include two Asian sovereign wealth funds and Singapore-based global investor, EDBI.

Esco is a world-leading manufacturer of laboratory and biopharma equipment and IVF medical devices, with four divisions, namely, Scientific, Medical, Healthcare, and Aster, which offers mission-critical equipment and advanced solutions to a broad diversity of laboratories, clinics and bio-pharma production sites in over 100 countries, thus contributing to the future of life science research and manufacturing.

Kasim Kutay, Chief Executive Officer of Novo Holdings, said, "As a long term, global life sciences investor, Novo Holdings is delighted to be partnering with the like-minded team at Esco. The opportunities for growth and expansion at Esco are significant and we look forward to bringing to bear our patient capital and life science expertise to the realisation of the Company's strategy."

Amit Kakar, Senior Partner, Head of Novo Holdings Asia, added, "Novo Holdings established its Asia presence with the opening of its Singapore office in January of this year and our investment in Esco is a very important milestone in the development of our regional ambitions. This investment builds on Novo's strategy to identify and invest in life science and healthcare companies which are true leaders in their field, and Esco, with its deep-rooted history, track record and expertise has a stellar reputation for innovation in the global laboratory and cleanroom industry."

XQ Lin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Esco Lifesciences, commented, "We are pleased to welcome Novo Holdings, one of the most experienced life sciences investors globally to Esco. This financing is a significant milestone for the Company as we embark on our Esco 3.0 transformation, which primarily involves strategic bolt-on M&A and expedited expansion in China, our priority market, to maintain the strong revenue growth we have achieved over the last decade. This financing will enable the creation of an innovation hub in Boston, focused on cell and gene therapy tools and technologies. We will increase our R&D and in-licensing efforts to develop and commercialise enabling novel life science research tools in emerging domains, thus enabling fundamental scientific discoveries and, ultimately, the diagnostics and medicines of tomorrow."

About Novo Holdings A/S

Novo Holdings A/S is a private limited liability company wholly owned by the Novo Nordisk Foundation. It is the holding company of the Novo Group, comprising Novo Nordisk A/S and Novozymes A/S, and is responsible for managing the Novo Nordisk Foundation's assets.

Novo Holdings is recognized as a leading international life science investor, with a focus on creating long-term value. As a life science investor, Novo Holdings provides seed and venture capital to development-stage companies and takes significant ownership positions in growth and well-established companies. Novo Holdings also manages a broad portfolio of diversified financial assets. Further information: www.novoholdings.dk.

About the Novo Nordisk Foundation

The Novo Nordisk Foundation is an independent Danish foundation with corporate interests. It has two objectives: 1) to provide a stable basis for the commercial and research activities of the companies in the Novo Group; and 2) to support scientific, humanitarian and social causes.

The vision of the Foundation is to contribute significantly to research and development that improves the lives of people and the sustainability of society. Since 2010, the Foundation has donated more than DKK 30 billion (4 billion), primarily for research at public institutions and hospitals in Denmark and the other Nordic countries. Read more at www.novonordiskfonden.dk/en

About Esco Lifesciences Group

Esco Lifesciences Group provides enabling technologies, products and services to the life sciences and healthcare industries, supporting academic research and scientific discoveries, clinical practice, as well as biopharmaceutical R&D and manufacturing. Headquartered in Singapore, Esco has an extensive sales network in over 100 countries, direct sales and service offices in over 20 countries, 8 manufacturing and R&D hubs in the US, Europe, the UK, China, Singapore, Indonesia, and over 1600 employees worldwide.

SOURCE Novo Holdings
This is where Ophtascan comes in. Developed by Oncotech Nordic AB, Ophtascan is a mobile in-real-time detection system of pre-cancerous and all four levels of cancer conditions and targeted oncological diseases in the human body. By simply using their own smartphone devices, users can photograph their iris, and upload the image to Oncotech's server. Oncotech's AI diagnostic and deep learning system then sends the results back to the user within just 25 seconds.

Oncotech's CEO Andre Rafnsson explains, "People will be able to self-diagnose for pre-cancerous and targeted existing cancerous conditions via a smartphone in-real time. The process is quick, on demand, cost effective - and does not overload the public health care diagnostic system unnecessarily, hence eliminating patient cancer screening waiting lists.

"Conditions currently clinically validated and screened include lung cancer, liver cancer, breast cancer, uterine cancer, and prostate cancer."

Rafnsson has over 25 years' management experience in the international pharmaceutical, medical device, specialty chemicals, and the biotech sectors. With its base of operations in both Sweden and the United Kingdom, Oncotech has been established by Rafnsson, alongside a management team consisting of CTO Marat Kalimulov, CSO Professor Shamil Gantzev and COO Rustem Amirov.

The roots of the Ophtascan proof of concept technology can be traced back to research and development undertaken by the Russian military 40 years ago. In those rudimentary times, the nascent technology wasn't sophisticated enough to realise the system's full potential. In 2014, Kalimulov and Professor Gantzev relaunched the initiative by incorporating IT and AI, giving fresh impetus to the possibilities offered by an examination of the eye.

Last year, validation of Ophtascan was completed, following tests on 800 oncology patients over a three-year period. The scanning precision success rate was over 96 per cent, with Rafnsson expecting to reach a 98-99 per cent precision scanning rate by the third quarter of 2021, as additional patients are tested and data is validated on a daily basis.

CEO Andre Rafnsson continued, "Our patent is now pending for the software and design algorithms. We have diligently started discussions with several telemedicine and remote health diagnostic business partners in Europe, North America and Asia with a view to license the Ophtascan technology. Technically advanced businesses can see the potential impact of this breakthrough in increased positive medical outcomes for patients. Cancer survival rate is determined by a number of factors, and early detection is one of the most significant determinants. Ophtascan  is precise, quick, well documented and is highly cost-effective.

"The very exciting news too is that new research is underway for Ophtascan tests that will examine the early warning signs for type 2 diabetes, a condition with rates that are seen as a 'ticking time-bomb'. The diabetes clinical test-trials have been completed with a positive proof of concept confirmation, where 100 patients have been successfully tested."

https://oncotechservices.com/

Ophtascan is the registered trade mark of Oncotech Nordic AB.

About Oncotech Nordic AB

Oncotech works with internationally acclaimed oncologists and clinical researchers based Japan, Denmark and Russia (Ufa and St Petersburg).

The Therapeutic R&D and focus is on Diagnostics (mobile in-time cancer screening technology) and cancer treatment Therapies (breast, uterus, lung, prostate, pancreas, liver and neuroblastoma).

R&D partners include:

Dana Genetics A/S, Eldon Biologicals A/S, Cencor Technology LLC,

LymTreat LLC, PeritonTreat LLC and the Skolkovo Foundation.

The fully-funded business was set up in London, UK in 2020 with a Nordic operational subsidiary in 2021, headed by CEO Andre Rafnsson.

SOURCE Oncotech Nordic AB
OSLO, Norway, 27 May 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Photocure ASA (OSE: PHO), The Bladder Cancer Company, announces that President and Chief Executive Officer, Daniel Schneider and Chief Financial Officer, Erik Dahl are scheduled to present corporate overviews at two upcoming institutional investor conferences in June.

Details for the two presentations are as follows:

The MicroCap Rodeo 2021 Summer Solstice  Best Ideas from the Buyside: June 1-4, 2021. Photocure will present on Tuesday June 1 at 3:00pm CET / 9:00am ET . Management will be available for virtual 1-1 meetings with investors attending the virtual conference.

Access to the live event/webcast is available by clicking here: www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/2134/41489

The MicroCap Rodeo's third edition is a virtual conference this year focused on investors in the United States. It brings together the top 35 "best ideas from the buy side". Qualified institutional investors recommended each of the 35 companies represented as one of their "best ideas". For more information: microcaprodeo.com.

Handelsbanken Nordic Mid/Small Cap Seminar 2021: June 2-3, 2021. Photocure will present on Wednesday, June 2 at 4:15pm CET / 10:15am ET . Management will be available for virtual 1-1 meetings with investors.

Handelsbanken Capital Markets' 12th consecutive Nordic Mid/Small Cap Seminar is a two-day intensive event featuring senior leadership speakers from an array of Nordic Mid/Small Cap companies. All presentations will be digital and presenting companies will host meetings with institutional investors signed up for the conference.

About Photocure ASA

Photocure: The Bladder Cancer Company delivers transformative solutions to improve the lives of bladder cancer patients. Our unique technology, making cancer cells glow bright pink, has led to better health outcomes for patients worldwide. Photocure is headquartered in Oslo, Norway and listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (OSE: PHO). For more information, please visit us at www.photocure.com, www.hexvix.com, www.cysview.com

CONTACT:

For further information, please contact:

Dan Schneider

President and CEO

Photocure ASA

Email: [email protected]

Erik Dahl

CFO

Photocure ASA

Tel: +4745055000

Email: [email protected]

David Moskowitz

Head of Investor Relations

Tel: +1 202 280 0888

Email: [email protected]

Media and IR enquiries:

Geir Bjrlo

Corporate Communications (Norway)

Tel: +47 91540000

Email: [email protected]

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/photocure/r/photocure-to-present-at-two-upcoming-investor-conferences-in-june,c3354426

The following files are available for download:

SOURCE Photocure
/CFP

Editor's note: Xiao Jie is deputy director of the Institute of Contemporary Studies, China Tibetology Research Center. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

This year's May 23 marks the 70th anniversary of the peaceful liberation of Tibet. On May 23, 1951, the Agreement of the Central People's Government and the Local Government of Tibet on Measures for the Peaceful Liberation of Tibet, "17-Article Agreement" for short, was signed in Beijing, marking the peaceful liberation of Tibet and starting a completely new historic process for the advancement of Tibetan society. Peaceful liberation, a watershed to distinguish modern Tibet from the old one, has laid a significant foundation for the rapid development of Tibet from different perspectives.

First, the peaceful liberation has solved the problem of sovereignty in Tibet and maintained national unification. A unified political entity is indispensable for its underdeveloped part to develop since a sustainable payment transfer system, unified market and developmental policy are all available.

Before 1951, due to the imperialist invasion and incitement, China's sovereignty in Tibet met with several challenges given the existence of foreign privilege and a group of pro-independence elites within the local government.

After signing the "17-Article Agreement," the central government of China re-established its sovereignty in Tibet, with the reestablishment of government bodies to help ordinary people in Tibet.

Since then, national unification has become a solid political foundation and ideological consensus in Tibet, based on which central government of China. Other provinces and municipalities also provide a large quantity of selfless support to Tibet.

The peaceful liberation has also started a grand process of social system transformation in Tibet. It is no longer a theocratic feudal serfdom society governed by a theocratic authority, in which the upper classes heavily exploited ordinary people.

The peaceful liberation, along with the subsequent democratic reform in 1959, ended the hundreds of years old feudal serfdom and theocracy in Tibet and established a completely new people's democracy, granting ordinary people the power to control their own lives.

Within the people's democratic system, ordinary people in Tibet elect their representatives in the National People's Congress and local people's congress members at various levels to manage the political, economic and social affairs for them. True democracy has comprehensively changed the fate of people and provided basic political dynamics to guarantee and improve human rights in Tibet.

Moreover, the peaceful liberation has made clear the path of ethnic, regional autonomy in Tibet. Ethnic, regional autonomy is a unique political system for governance of ethnic regions in China, combining national unification with local autonomy and ethnic factors with regional factors.

The "17-Article Agreement" clearly states that "in accordance with the policy toward ethnic groups laid down in the Common Program of the CPPCC (Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference), the Tibetan people have the right to exercise national and regional autonomy under the unified leadership of the Central People's Government," paving the way for the establishment of ethnic, regional autonomy in Tibet.

The Preparatory Committee of Tibet Autonomous Region was set up in 1956. Nine years later, the Tibet Autonomous Region was formally founded in 1965, marking the final establishment of ethnic, regional autonomy in Tibet.

During the past 70 years after peaceful liberation, Tibet has realized tremendous progress in every aspect, which has been comprehensively described in the white paper released by China's State Council Information Office on May 21. There are several keywords that can help us understand the white paper better.

Scenery of Lhasa City, capital of Tibet Autonomous Region, southwest China. /VCG

The first keywords are "targeted poverty alleviation." Since the 18th national congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the Chinese government has invested a lot to fight against poverty and solved the problem of absolute poverty for the first time in the history of Tibet.

Tibet was a contiguous poor area with the highest incidence and most severe level of poverty, where the cost of poverty eradication was highest and the difficulty greatest. With the support of the Chinese central government and partnership assistance from other parts of the country and targeted poverty alleviation policies and measures, Tibet has won a decisive victory over extreme poverty.

By the end of 2019, all the 628,000 registered poor and 74 designated poor counties in Tibet had risen from extreme poverty, which is a landmark success in human history, especially in a high plateau with a severe natural environment.

The second keywords are "ethnic solidarity." Exchange, communication and integration among different ethnic groups have always been a tradition of China since ancient times and the basic tone of the Chinese government's ethnic policies.

To enhance ethnic equality and solidarity, the current Chinese government is deeply devoted to consolidating the consciousness of the Chinese national community.

The Tibet Autonomous Region has profoundly promoted ethnic unity and progress via activities such as themed education on the Chinese dream and patriotism. Tibetan students and workers are encouraged to find jobs and start businesses anywhere in the rest of China. Nowadays, ethnic unity has been promoted to the largest extent in Tibet.

The third keywords are "ecological construction." As an important guarantor of China's environmental security, the environmental protection of Tibet has attracted great attention not only from people in China but also from other countries around the world.

The Chinese government has attached tremendous importance to environmental protection and construction in Tibet. Coordinated progress has been made in maintaining and improving the environment, and various governments have done a lot to build a green development model. Tibet's ecosystems are now generally stable, and Tibet has become one of the regions with the best ecological environment in the world.

Therefore, we can say that there is a completely new Tibet compared with the one that existed before 1951.
US Rep. Louie Gohmert (R-Texas): I understand from whats been testified to the Forest Service and the BLM [Bureau of Land Management], you want very much to work on the issue of climate change. We know theres been significant solar flare activity, and so  is there anything that the National Forest Service or BLM can do to change the course of the moons orbit, or the Earths orbit around the sun? Obviously that would have profound effects on our climate.

Jennifer Eberlein, associate deputy chief for the National Forest System, responded that she would have to follow up with you on that one, after a brief pause.

Gohmert: Well, if you figure out a way that you in the Forest Service can make that change, Id like to know.
TULSA, Okla., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Platt College and Excel High School are excited to announce a new partnership that will help individuals who didn't graduate from high school go back to class and earn their diplomas through an accredited online high school. The program, which is delivered 100% online and free of charge to students, will be administered through Excel High School with Platt covering the cost for students and providing access to the school's facilities, computers and a facilitator to assist students to help ensure their success.

"Excel High School is a leader in the field and we look forward to working with them to help more people take advantage of all that a high school diploma affords  things like accessing jobs with larger salaries, attending college and feeling that sense of accomplishment that comes with realizing a goal," said Dr. Andrea Snow, Senior Vice President-Academics & Career Services for the Ancora Education group of private, post-secondary schools located across the U.S., including Platt College.

"Excel High School is proud to partner with Ancora Education to provide adult learners a unique opportunity aimed to help adults re-engage their education, graduate from high school with an accredited diploma, and attend college," said Rod Clarkson, Excel's CEO.

Individuals interested in the program must apply and interview through Platt and agree to attend Excel's online delivered classes on the Platt campus three days a week for two-to-three hours per day. Platt does not teach the classes but provides community-facing support throughout the process. The length of the program varies for each student depending upon the number of credits they have coming into the program.

"Online courses and study applications at Excel High School are highly accessible and easy to navigate. The grading system is refreshingly fair, and the staff is made up of genuinely good, hardworking educators who seek to bring out the best in students. I recommend Excel High School to everyone," said Jalen, an Excel graduate. "Traditional high school did not work for me, so I thank God for Excel and having the opportunity to graduate."

Excel High School offers online high school courses that meet State standards for high school graduation. Courses are easy to navigate and help ensure that students' master the course subject matter. Online Courses at EHS are available anytime - 24/7 and each student is supported by an advisor and a highly qualified subject matter expert. Excel High School is a fully functioning, accredited high school.

"Everyone I worked with at Excel is supportive, responsive, and even though courses are online, I felt like I was working with real people that cared about my success," said Luke, an Excel graduate. "The program wasn't easy, but it was worth it. I cannot thank Excel High School enough for helping me earn my high school diploma."

Excel High School issues the final diploma to students who graduate from the online program. There is no obligation to enroll at Platt following graduation.

"This is a service we provide for our communities because a high school diploma improves eligibility for employment and secondary education opportunities  both of which have a significant economic impact in the communities we serve," said Dr. Snow.

About Platt College

Founded in 1979, Platt College has provided thousands of Oklahomans with the skills to embark on new careers while meeting the demands of employers in an ever-changing job market. Graduates have access to Career Assistance which includes guidance from our Career Services team, resume updates, workshops and more. Learn more at www.plattcolleges.edu.

About Excel High School

Since 2005, Excel High School has delivered high-quality, accredited, online K-12 and adult high school programs. The cornerstone of the Excel program includes personalized learning, flexibility to study where and when students learn best, highly qualified instructors, an award-winning, standards-aligned curriculum, easy to use technology, and a diverse online learning community. For more information, call 800-620-3844 or visit ExcelHighSchool.com. Excel High School is a division of Excel Education Systems, Inc. a global leader in online education.

SOURCE Platt College

Related Links

https://www.plattcolleges.edu/


SHANGHAI, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- International sourcing company Source Access has extended their corporate responsibility to contribute to the growing oxygen concerns in India. Source Access is working with hospitals in India to help get them Oxygen Concentrators. One has already been sent to Ved Hospital in Mumbai, India, with plans to provide more ventilators to key hospitals within the country.

D02 Series - Oxygen Concentrator

This partnership was initiated by the company following the announcement that COVID-19 has become India's "Number One Killer" with projections of 1.3 billion citizens dying as a result of the deadly virus by August 2021. Global systems regulate who can receive oxygen, and with it being a lifesaving treatment for the virus, many oxygen systems in hospitals across India require refills that they are not getting access to.

"Given the recent outbreak in India, our company believes that it's extremely important that the world comes togetherthis is now a global humanity issue," says Source Access' VP of sales, Jordan Biss. "We've dedicated our team to secure PPE products such as oxygen tanks to go out to India as priority shipments."

Already being actively involved in global partnerships, and being no stranger to jumping in to help with international pandemic emergencies, Source Access understands that hospitals in India are desperately in search of oxygen concentrators. A concentrator is portable and allows oxygen to be made from air and water, making them an ideal solution for less-severe cases. The Dynmed D02-Series Concentrator that Source Access is facilitating a shipment for can hold 10L of oxygen and can easily be connected to a power source.

Source Access will continue to do their part, in any way they are able to, to work towards a pandemic-free world. Learn more about the company at sourceaccess.com.

About Source Access

With over 30 years of experience, Source Access provides clients with ease of mind sourcing solutions. We work on collaborating with our customers from concept to creation while procuring top-notch sourcing and manufacturing solutions. Source Access is home to talent from the USA, Canada, Korea, China and Taiwan. Source Access sources critical PPE supplies, sporting equipment, retail products, home furnishings and more across the globe.

Media Contacts:

Danielle Goguen, Grow Digital

[email protected]

Jordan Biss, Source Access

[email protected]

Related Images

10l-oxygen-concentrator.png

10L Oxygen Concentrator

D02 Series - Oxygen Concentrator

SOURCE Source Access
NASHUA, N.H., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Resonetics announced today it has acquired Distal Solutions, an innovative firm specializing in the design and development of catheter-based delivery systems and implants for interventional markets. Based in Westborough, Massachusetts, the Distal Solutions team, led by founder David Rezac, will be expanding and opening a new office in Resonetics' San Diego site to enhance service to the dynamic MedTech market in California.

"We've gotten to know Dave and the team at Distal over the past year through a number of mutual customer projects and have witnessed the strong synergies between their product development talents and Resonetics' extensive prototyping and manufacturing capabilities" said Tom Burns, Resonetics President & CEO. "Resonetics has invested significantly to offer a broad array of manufacturing technologies with industry-leading delivery times through our Lightspeed Application Development Labs. We're excited to join forces with Distal Solutions to compress product development cycles further and help customers get their innovative product concepts to market sooner."

Resonetics will create a new division focused on design, development and finished device assembly. David Rezac, a 15-year veteran of the contract design & development industry, will lead the initiative including expansion to California. "Since founding Distal Solutions seven years ago, I've had the good fortune of working on compelling interventional technologies alongside passionate people and am excited to continue that journey as part of the Resonetics family" Dave expressed. "We have an outstanding team that delivers consistent value to our customers by providing creative, flexible and attentive service. Joining forces with Resonetics will allow us to leverage our complementary offerings, resulting in even better outcomes for our customers. Adding dedicated design & development resources on the West coast is a natural extension of our footprint and the Distal team is very excited to collaborate more closely with Resonetics' nitinol center of excellence in San Diego."

Distal Solutions is Resonetics' seventh acquisition in the past four years and continues to build upon the company's leading position in micro manufacturing for the life sciences. Resonetics' 1,200 + employees operate out of 11 sites located in key medical technology markets with expanding facilities totaling more than 500,000 square feet.

About Resonetics

Founded in 1987, Resonetics is a pioneer in micro manufacturing and provides contract manufacturing services to the life sciences industry. Resonetics is a leader in laser processing, centerless grinding, nitinol processing, thin-wall stainless steel and precious metal tubing, photochemical machining and other critical machining services. With eight Lightspeed Application Development Labs located strategically to serve MedTech companies around the world, Resonetics is built on a foundation of quality, speed and innovation to deliver best-in-class value with a customer centric approach. The company is ISO 13485:2016 certified with facilities in the United States, Costa Rica, Israel and Switzerland. Resonetics is owned by Regatta Medical, a portfolio company of GTCR. Learn more at www.resonetics.com

About GTCR and Regatta Medical

Founded in 1980, GTCR is a leading private equity firm focused on investing in growth companies in the Growth Business Services, Technology, Media & Telecommunications, Healthcare and Financial Services & Technology industries. The Chicago-based firm pioneered The Leaders Strategy  finding and partnering with management leaders in core domains to identify, acquire and build market leading companies through transformational acquisitions and organic growth. Since its inception, GTCR has invested more than $20 billion in over 250 companies. For more information, please visit www.gtcr.com. Regatta Medical was formed in April 2017 as a partnership between Robert "Chip" Hance, Mark Weishaar, and GTCR. Regatta Medical's mission is to build a leading company in the medical device industry by acquiring outstanding medical device products and services businesses. For more information about Regatta Medical, please visit www.regattamedical.com

SOURCE Resonetics, LLC

Related Links

https://resonetics.com/


Independent research firm report states that Riversand "provides best-in-class data onboarding and creation"

CHICAGO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Riversand, a Syndigo Company and leading cloud-native SaaS Master Data Management (MDM) and Product Information Management (PIM) solution provider, today announced that it has been named a Leader in "The Forrester WaveTM: Product Information Management, Q2 2021*" report.

"We are very honored that Forrester named Riversand a Leader in PIM platforms," said Upen Varanasi, CEO and co-founder of Riversand. "On top of the recognition, we have kept a singular focus on providing customers with a great onboarding, deployment, and support experience. Our customers rate us highly in multiple fronts. We believe this feedback is further validated in this Forrester report."

Riversand was recently acquired by Syndigo, a leading SaaS product information and syndication company. Together they comprise an end-to-end product content solution featuring MDM, PIM, DAM, Syndication and Analytics capabilities. The two companies are an "ideal fit," according to Varanasi. More information can be found here: https://www.syndigo.com/about-us/news/syndigo-acquires-riversand-expanding-master-data-management/

Riversand was among the select companies that Forrester invited to participate in its report, "The Forrester WaveTM: Product Information Management, Q2 2021." In this evaluation, Riversand was cited as a Leader in Product Information Management.

Riversand received the highest score amongst all 10 vendors in the "Current Offering" category.

The report stated that Riversand references credited Riversand as "a 'very elegant' solution for complex data aggregation," and that reference "customers selected Riversand as a cost-effective system to manage modern PIM and for its industry-specific expertise"

Riversand received the highest possible scores in seven specific criteria including "Product data management," "Product data creation and onboarding," "Deployment and Support," "Partner ecosystem," and "Market approach."

"We work with phenomenal clients and take great pride in delivering better data experiences to their customers and partners," said Upen Varanasi, CEO and co-founder of Riversand. "Data is the fuel that drives our customers' growth, revenue, and cost engines. We optimize that fuel and help our customers realize business value from their data."

Riversand helps some of the world's biggest brands manage their multiple domains of data, such as customer, product, and supply chain data, across all points  giving customers trustable data to the right person, at the right time, and in the right context. Riversand's customers include global leaders in retail, food and consumer-packaged goods (CPG), manufacturing, transportation and distribution, healthcare, and energy.

Download the full Forrester Wave report here (available to Forrester subscribers and for purchase) *: https://www.riversand.com/resources/forrester-wave-product-information-management-solution

*Forrester, "The Forrester WaveTM: Product Information Management, Q2 2021," Amanda LeClair, and Contributors Allen Bonde, Alessia Stewart, and Madison Bakalar, May 2021

About Riversand

Riversand provides a Master Data Experience Platform (MDxP), enabling customers to leverage their data through intelligent insights, automation, and multi-domain SaaS solutions. Riversand's MDxP platform is the engine that powers customers' digital transformation journeys through improved business agility, faster adoption and improved collaboration across the enterprise. Driving data to experiences and insights, Riversand has a vision of helping companies know their customers better, move products faster, automate processes, mitigate risk and run their businesses smarter. Visit Riversand for more information and follow us @RiversandMDM on Twitter and Riversand on LinkedIn.

About Syndigo

Syndigo enables commerce by supporting the efficient transfer of product information through its network of brands and their customers. The company provides descriptive product and nutritional information, images and other digital media, powered by deep analytics to empower engaging brand experiences online and in store.

Through Syndigo's integrated platform, Content Experience Hub, clients can publish, manage, syndicate and audit product content across the largest trading network of brands and recipients in the world.

Syndigo serves more than 12,000 manufacturers and 1,750 retailers and distributors globally in many important consumer industries including grocery, foodservice, hardlines, home improvement/DIY, pet, health and beauty, automotive, apparel, and healthcare products. For more information, please visit www.syndigo.com.

SOURCE Syndigo

Related Links

https://www.syndigo.com


SAN ANTONIO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The San Antonio Area Foundation announced a new multimillion-dollar scholarship bequest available to students in Bexar and Webb counties. The newly created program will become one of the largest student scholarships not just in our region but also nationally.

Annually, the San Antonio Area Foundation Legacy Scholarship will award $2 million total to 50 students from Bexar and Webb counties. Each student will receive $10,000 per academic year, renewable for up to four years.

Legacy Scholarship will support South Texas students with $10,000 for Four Years in College. Tweet this San Antonio Area Foundation Announces Multimillion-Dollar Scholarship Scholarship Recipient

"We are enormously grateful for the opportunity to provide students in our communities a pathway to pursue higher education," said Marjie French, CEO of the Area Foundation. "We're so honored  not just by this transformational bequest but by the trust and confidence placed on us to advocate for these future leaders."

Legacy Scholarship applicants must be high school juniors living in Bexar or Webb counties with proven leadership qualities, demonstrated community involvement and a competitive transcript. Scholarship students must attend a Texas college or university, public or private. There is no income requirement to be eligible for the scholarship. Applications will be available this fall, and the first cohort of Legacy Scholars who must be juniors will be announced in Spring 2022 for matriculation in the fall of 2023.

Since its first scholarship award in 1969, the Area Foundation has awarded over $37 million to college-going students from more than 100 scholarship funds to help them achieve their educational dreams.

****************************************

About the San Antonio Area Foundation:

The San Antonio Area Foundation has served as the city's community-giving headquarters for nearly 60 years, growing to become one of the top 20 foundations in the nation based on asset size. The Area Foundation helps donors achieve their charitable goals, managing more than 500 charitable funds topping $1 billion in assets. Learn more at www.saafdn.org/students/scholarships.

Contact:

Angel Martinez, Vice President of Communications & Public Affairs

o: (210) 775-6064 / c: (726) 300-2469

[email protected]

SOURCE San Antonio Area Foundation

Related Links

https://saafdn.org/


LONDON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Schneider Electric, the leader in digital transformation of energy management and automation, has announced the launch of its Easy Rack Series available exclusively in Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Available in a variety of sizes, the Easy Rack series is designed to be quick and easy to install, while simple to scale, customise and accessorise. It delivers a high-quality and cost-effective rack system for a broad range of mission-critical applications, including network closets, edge computing and industrial environments, cloud and colocation data centres.

Easy Racks are fully customisable and available in a number of heights, widths and depths, ranging from 24U to 48U units, to 600mm and 800mm widths, and 800mm to 1200mm depth variations. The diverse range also includes rack systems with or without sides and one option, which comes flat packed for easy delivery to sites with deployment challenges such as space or height constraints.

Easy Racks provide a reliable, affordable and easy to use series of racks, accessories and components from a globally trusted brand that is synonymous with high-quality battery back-up power, data centre and edge computing infrastructure. They are easy to choose, install and accessorise with other components, including the recently launched and feature-rich, Easy Rack PDU series.

"Our new Easy Rack range offers world-class reliability, performance and accessibility for mission-critical IT in a multitude of applications," said Rob McKernan, Senior Vice President, Secure Power Division, Schneider Electric Europe. "Whether used in colocation facilities, in remote edge or enterprise office environments, Easy Racks deliver a high-quality, robust and easy-to-install range of rack enclosures and accessories, at an affordable price."

Key Benefits of the new Easy Rack range include:

Fast deployment with a feature-rich, economic rack platform : Fully assembled with essential features, Easy Racks deliver fast deployment and rapid equipment installation for any IT environment. The series offers up to 81% ventilation rate on front and rear doors with static and dynamic load ratings respectively of 1200kg and 600kg.



Fully assembled with essential features, Easy Racks deliver fast deployment and rapid equipment installation for any IT environment. The series offers up to 81% ventilation rate on front and rear doors with static and dynamic load ratings respectively of 1200kg and 600kg. Standardised rack platform: Easy Rack customers can standardise all of their server and network rack requirements on one rack platform, delivering easy installation within row-based data centres, wiring closets and remote edge environments. New standard sizes include an 800mm width and 800mm depth form factor, suitable for cabling and patching applications in network spaces.



Easy Rack customers can standardise all of their server and network rack requirements on one rack platform, delivering easy installation within row-based data centres, wiring closets and remote edge environments. New standard sizes include an 800mm width and 800mm depth form factor, suitable for cabling and patching applications in network spaces. Competitive Cost: It offers a simple, cost effective and easy to use, rack-based Infrastructure with seamless design and compatibility across a multitude of IT infrastructures.



It offers a simple, cost effective and easy to use, rack-based Infrastructure with seamless design and compatibility across a multitude of IT infrastructures. Increased compatibility: Easy integration with racks, accessories and PDU's, and with Schneider Electric's design tools ensures quick to design, deploy and compatible IT solutions.

Easy integration with racks, accessories and PDU's, and with Schneider Electric's design tools ensures quick to design, deploy and compatible IT solutions. High-quality systems: From a proven industry leader with legendary reliability and five-year factory warranty.

Easy racks are fully compatible with Schneider Electric's open, interoperable and vendor-agnostic EcoStruxure IT management software, allowing remote monitoring of on-premise and distributed IT infrastructure from anywhere, at any time, via any device.

The Easy Rack Series will be available via channel partners in Europe from May 2021. To learn more  visit the website.

Discover EcoStruxure

About EcoStruxure

EcoStruxure is Schneider Electric's open, interoperable, IoT-enabled system architecture and platform. It delivers enhanced value around safety, reliability, efficiency, sustainability, and connectivity for customers. EcoStruxure leverages advancements in IoT, mobility, sensing, cloud, analytics, and cybersecurity to deliver innovation at every level. This includes connected products, edge computing control and apps, analytics, and services. EcoStruxure has been deployed in more than 480,000 sites, with the support of more than 20,000 system integrators and developers, connecting over 1.6 million assets under management through over 40 digital services.

About Schneider Electric

Schneider's purpose is to empower all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability for all. We call this Life Is On.

Our mission is to be your digital partner for Sustainability and Efficiency. We drive digital transformation by integrating world-leading process and energy technologies, end-point to cloud connecting products, controls, software and services, across the entire lifecycle, enabling integrated company management, for homes, buildings, data centers, infrastructure, and industries.

We are the most local of global companies. We are advocates of open standards and partnership ecosystems that are passionate about our shared Meaningful Purpose, Inclusive, and Empowered values.

https://www.se.com/uk/en/

Discover Life Is On

Related resources on SE.com:

Hashtags: #LifeIsOn #CertaintyInAConnectedWorld

Follow us on: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram | Blog

SOURCE Schneider Electric UK
As a responsible investor and business operator, Advent considers environmental, social and governance factors at all stages of its investment and value creation processes. The firm believes that strong ESG management improves portfolio companies' accountability to their stakeholders, reduces systemic risks and uncovers opportunities created by shifting global conditions and markets.

Building on its history of growing and positioning companies for long-term success, Advent is adopting S&P Global Sustainable1's internationally recognised Corporate Sustainability Assessment to measure process and performance improvement and integrate sustainability at the firm and a group of its portfolio companies. The CSA is widely recognized as one of the most advanced ESG scoring methodologies and draws upon over 20 years of experience analysing the impact of sustainability practices on a company's long-term value creation.

James Brocklebank, Managing Partner of Advent International, commented: ""Advent is proud to be the first private equity firm to work with S&P Global Sustainable1 on promoting key ESG practices in Advent and a group of our portfolio companies. We have always believed that thoughtful ESG management creates stronger and more valuable companies. That's why our partnership with S&P Global Sustainable1 and our participation in the CSA is so important to us. It will provide us with access to critical ESG metrics that will better inform our strategy and our companies' operations to enable stronger and more sustainable long-term growth."

Martina Cheung, Head of S&P Global Sustainable1, added: "While companies are completing the CSA at record rates, Advent is the first private equity firm to engage in the CSA allowing it to assess its own sustainability practices and that of its portfolio companies. We're excited that Advent has chosen to pioneer these efforts across the private markets with S&P Global Sustainable1."

Advent's relationship with Sustainable1 enables its portfolio companies to benchmark against their own industry best practices and understand the roadmap to operational excellence in ESG and improved sustainability performance. The CSA will be used as part of Advent's approach to determining the maturity of many of its portfolio companies' ESG programs and set a baseline against which progress can be measured. Advent's structured approach to value creation includes supporting the development of each portfolio company's business model-specific ESG programs.

To develop an internationally recognised and finance focused ESG assessment of the company's exposure to observable ESG risks and its ability to capture ESG related opportunities, S&P Global Sustainable1's research team will work with management teams of Advent and participating portfolio companies, to analyse both public and private company data.

The insights Advent and its portfolio companies will gain from the CSA platform will inform stronger ESG programs and enable the firm to measure performance improvements over the coming years.

To learn more about Sustainable1 and the CSA, please visit: www.spglobal.com/sustainable1.

About Advent International

Founded in 1984, Advent International is one of the largest and most experienced global private equity investors. The firm has invested in over 370 private equity transactions across 41 countries, and as of September 30, 2020, had $76 billion in assets under management. With 15 offices in 12 countries, Advent has established a globally integrated team of 240 investment professionals across North America, Europe, Latin America and Asia. The firm focuses on investments in five core sectors, including business and financial services; health care; industrial; retail, consumer and leisure; and technology. After 35 years dedicated to international investing, Advent remains committed to partnering with management teams to deliver sustained revenue and earnings growth for its portfolio companies.

For more information, visit:

Website: www.adventinternational.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/advent-international

About S&P Global Sustainable1

S&P Global Sustainable1 is the central source for sustainably intelligence from S&P Global. Sustainable1 matches customers with the ESG products, insights and solutions from across S&P Global's divisions to help meet their unique needs. Our comprehensive coverage across global markets combined with in-depth ESG intelligence provides financial institutions, corporations and governments an unmatched level of clarity and confidence to successfully navigate the transition to a sustainable future. Our data and well-informed point of view on critical topics like energy transition, climate resilience, positive impact and sustainable finance allow us to go deep on the details that define the big picture so customers can make decisions with conviction. To learn more about Sustainable1, visit www.spglobal.com/sustainable1.

MEDIA CONTACTS  ADVENT INTERNATIONAL

Graeme Wilson or Harry Cameron

Tulchan

M: +45 40 83 32 30

Email: [email protected]

MEDIA CONTACT  S&P Global Sustainable1

Farhan Husain

Global Head of Communications

M: +1 347 213 0065

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE S&P Global Sustainable1

Related Links

http://www.spglobal.com/sustainable1


LOUISVILLE, Ky., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Louisville lit up the sky in yellow to signal that Spirit Airlines (NYSE: SAVE) was on its way, and now Spirit's bright yellow planes are touching down for the first time as the airline celebrates its inaugural flight. The first landing is a milestone years in the making, but Spirit is taking the festivities a step further by announcing the addition of two new, nonstop routes from the Derby City to Tampa (TPA) and Fort Myers (RSW) on Florida's Gulf Coast starting later this year. Photos and video available HERE

Flights from Louisville (SDF) Destination: Flights Available: Launch Date: Fort Lauderdale (FLL) Daily May 27, 2021 Las Vegas (LAS) Daily May 27, 2021 Los Angeles (LAX) Daily May 27, 2021 Orlando (MCO) Daily May 27, 2021 Pensacola (PNS) 3X Weekly June 10, 2021 Fort Myers (RSW) NEW 4X Weekly Nov. 17, 2021 Tampa (TPA) NEW 3X Weekly Nov. 18, 2021

"It's a beautiful day when we get to bring the best value in the sky to a vibrant city like Louisville and announce plans for even More Go on day one," said John Kirby, Vice President of Network Planning for Spirit Airlines. "I've seen so much enthusiasm across the whole Spirit Team as we prepared to welcome Guests onboard in Louisville, and we're off to a great start serving this incredible community. We look forward to everyone experiencing our unbeatable combination of service, reliability, new planes and low fares when they take their next trip."

Spirit flight 1227 will be the airline's first departure from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF). Plans call for it to leave under a water cannon salute with nonstop service to Fort Lauderdale. The rest of the day's schedule calls for flights to and from Orlando, Las Vegas and Los Angeles with service to Pensacola following in June. Thursday's announcement means SDF travelers will be able to catch nonstop flights to seven citiesand connections throughout the U.S., Latin America and the Caribbeanwhile enjoying Spirit's famous low fares, Signature Service and on-time performance.

"When Spirit first announced they were coming to Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, we said it was a great day, and it keeps getting better. Spirit is a fantastic addition to our community, and we appreciate the continued investment with two new, convenient nonstop routes since their initial announcement," said Dan Mann, Executive Director of the Louisville Regional Airport Authority. "We look forward to a vibrant future with even more options for more travelers to visit our city, along with additional opportunities to travel around the country and the world."

Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas and Orlando are three of Spirit's biggest cities, which means nonstop flights from SDF come with easy connections throughout the United States. Fort Lauderdale is also Spirit's largest gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean, providing access to 16 countries.

"It's wonderful to celebrate the launch of Spirit Airlines from Louisville," said Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer. "Spirit's network brings even more options for businesses and visitors to reach our great city. We appreciate the airport team for their work to expand travel options for our community."

Spirit continues to seize growth opportunities as demand for air travel increases. This year, 16 new fuel-efficient Airbus A320neo planes will join the airline's Fit Fleet, which is among the youngest in the industry. Next year, Spirit plans to accept another 21 new planes.

The airline's Free Spirit loyalty program is also new this year, and it offers the fastest way to earn rewards and status.* Members are discovering opportunities to earn points on every booking, every bag and every Big Front Seat. Plus, options like Points Pooling with friends or family make it easier than ever to plan vacations and trips to visit loved ones.

Recognition

Spirit continues to garner awards and recognition in 2021. Spirit is one of only three U.S. airlines listed on FORTUNE's 2021 list of World's Most Admired Companies, which measures companies with the strongest reputation within their industries. The carrier is a Gold Stevie Award winner for its groundbreaking self-bag drop system with biometric photo matching, which speeds the check-in process and reduces face-to-face contact. Spirit also earned "Platinum" status in the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) Health Safety initiative powered by SimpliFlying. Additionally, WalletHub recently named Spirit "Most Affordable Airline" in their 2021 Best Airlines awards and ranked Spirit third out of 11 in the overall rankings.

Guest Safety

Spirit's commitment to Safe Travels includes enhanced cleaning, advanced air filtration and a health acknowledgement at check-in. Airlines and airports remain subject to federal law requiring Guests to wear an appropriate face covering at airports and on flights. Please visit Spirit's COVID-19 Information Center for more information on safety enhancements.

*Based on points earned on published fares (excluding sale fares) and optional services using the Free Spirit Credit Card (the "Card"), and includes status qualifying points earned by spending on Spirit and everyday purchases using the Card.

About Spirit Airlines:

Spirit Airlines (NYSE: SAVE) is committed to delivering the best value in the sky. We are the leader in providing customizable travel options starting with an unbundled fare. This allows our Guests to pay only for the options they choose  like bags, seat assignments and refreshments  something we call A La Smarte. We make it possible for our Guests to venture further and discover more than ever before. Our Fit Fleet is one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient in the U.S. We serve destinations throughout the U.S., Latin America and the Caribbean, and are dedicated to giving back and improving those communities. Come save with us at spirit.com .

About the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF):

The Louisville Regional Airport Authority owns and operates the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) and Bowman Field (LOU). Aviation is an economic powerhouse for the region, generating $10.4 billion in economic impact annually. Six airlines offer nonstop service to more than 30 nonstop destinations from SDF. Home to UPS Worldport that moves vaccines, products and tons of precious cargo worldwide, SDF is the second busiest cargo airport in North America and fourth in the world.

SOURCE Spirit Airlines, Inc.

Related Links

https://www.spirit.com


ST. LOUIS, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The first in a line of bright yellow planes touched down in St. Louis on Thursday, and Spirit Airlines (NYSE: SAVE) marked the milestone by revealing more of them are on the way in November. Spirit announced new daily flights to Fort Myers (RSW), Phoenix (PHX) and Tampa (TPA) along with Cancun (CUN), which will mark the carrier's first international service from St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL). The new destinations join five others announced for Spirit's arrival at the Gateway to the West.

Photos and video available HERE

Flights from St. Louis (STL) Destination: Flights Available: Launch Date: Fort Lauderdale (FLL) Daily May 27, 2021 Las Vegas (LAS) Daily May 27, 2021 Los Angeles (LAX) Daily May 27, 2021 Orlando (MCO) Daily May 27, 2021 Pensacola (PNS) Daily June 10, 2021 Fort Myers (RSW) NEW Daily Nov. 17, 2021 Phoenix (PHX) NEW Daily Nov, 17, 2021 Tampa (TPA) NEW Daily Nov. 17, 2021 Cancun (CUN)* NEW Daily Dec. 22, 2021

"St. Louis travelers know how to spot a good value, and they're clearly excited about Spirit's arrival at St. Louis Lambert International," said John Kirby, Vice President of Network Planning for Spirit Airlines. "We saw a strong response as soon as we announced our first routes, so the decision to add more nonstop routes to fun destinations was easy to make. With low-cost flights to St. Louis' most popular vacation destinations, Gateway City residents have more opportunities to enjoy a quick getaway or spend time with friends and family."

Spirit flight 1157 will be the airline's first departure from STL on May 27. Plans call for it to leave under a water cannon salute with nonstop service to Los Angeles (LAX). The rest of the day's schedule calls for flights to and from Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Las Vegas (LAS) and Orlando (MCO) with service to Pensacola following in June. Thursday's announcement means STL travelers will be able to catch nonstop flights to nine citiesand connections throughout the U.S., Latin America and the Caribbeanwhile enjoying Spirit's famous low fares, Signature Service and on-time performance.

"Today is a great day for our airport," said Rhonda Hamm-Niebruegge, STL Airport Director. "Not only does Spirit begin service to five destinations from St. Louis, but Spirit is doubling down on their commitment to St. Louis Lambert International with the announcement of new service to four more cities."

Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas and Orlando are three of Spirit's biggest cities, which means nonstop flights from STL come with easy connections throughout the United States. Fort Lauderdale is also Spirit's largest gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean, providing access to 16 countries.

Spirit continues to seize growth opportunities as demand for air travel increases. This year, 16 new fuel-efficient Airbus A320neo planes will join the airline's Fit Fleet, which is among the youngest in the industry. Next year, Spirit plans to accept another 21 new planes.

The airline's Free Spirit loyalty program is also new this year, and it offers the fastest way to earn rewards and status.** Members are discovering opportunities to earn points on every booking, every bag and every Big Front Seat. Plus, options like Points Pooling with friends or family make it easier than ever to plan vacations and trips to visit loved ones.

Recognition

Spirit continues to garner awards and recognition in 2021. Spirit is one of only three U.S. airlines listed on FORTUNE's 2021 list of World's Most Admired Companies, which measures companies with the strongest reputation within their industries. The carrier is a Gold Stevie Award winner for its groundbreaking self-bag drop system with biometric photo matching, which speeds the check-in process and reduces face-to-face contact. Spirit also earned "Platinum" status in the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) Health Safety initiative powered by SimpliFlying. Additionally, WalletHub recently named Spirit "Most Affordable Airline" in their 2021 Best Airlines awards and ranked Spirit third out of 11 in the overall rankings.

Guest Safety

Spirit's commitment to Safe Travels includes enhanced cleaning, advanced air filtration and a health acknowledgement at check-in. Airlines and airports remain subject to federal law requiring Guests to wear an appropriate face covering at airports and on flights. Please visit Spirit's COVID-19 Information Center for more information on safety enhancements.

*Subject to government approval.

**Based on points earned on published fares (excluding sale fares) and optional services using the Free Spirit Credit Card (the "Card"), and includes status qualifying points earned by spending on Spirit and everyday purchases using the Card.

About Spirit Airlines:

Spirit Airlines (NYSE: SAVE) is committed to delivering the best value in the sky. We are the leader in providing customizable travel options starting with an unbundled fare. This allows our Guests to pay only for the options they choose  like bags, seat assignments and refreshments  something we call A La Smarte. We make it possible for our Guests to venture further and discover more than ever before. Our Fit Fleet is one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient in the U.S. We serve destinations throughout the U.S., Latin America and the Caribbean, and are dedicated to giving back and improving those communities. Come save with us at spirit.com .

About STL:

St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) is the primary commercial airport for the St. Louis metro area and parts of eastern Missouri and southern Illinois serving nearly 15.9 million passengers annually. STL is an Enterprise Fund Department of the City of St. Louis. It is wholly supported by airport user charges. No general fund revenues are used for the operation, administration, promotion or maintenance of airport facilities. For more information on flights and services at St. Louis Lambert International Airport, log onto www.flystl.com.

SOURCE Spirit Airlines, Inc.

Related Links

https://www.spirit.com/


FORT COLLINS, Colo., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Travel is on the rise and a new company, STOW IT, is making long-term airport parking an easy option that has never existed. Set up and designed for long-term and monthly travelers, STOW IT partners with airport parking operators to offer the cheapest monthly rates at over 20 airports around the country. STOW IT is offering monthly parking at less than a usual ride share, for example in DFW monthly parking is as cheap as $110 a month. STOW IT has made a seamless experience where you can find, reserve, and pay for your vehicle storage all at once through their website and rest easy knowing you have reserved a spot.

STOW IT has become nationwide teaming up with partners all over the United States at many airports to help customers quickly reserve a spot for their vehicle while their customers are traveling. They have many options that you can compare and find the perfect price and location for all your needs. A lot of the locations they have include covered and uncovered parking as well as shuttle services that take you to and from the airport.

STOW IT is currently serving every major airport in Texas including Houston airport (HOU), George Bush Intercontinental/Houston Airport (IAH), Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL), and Austin Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA). STOW IT is changing the way travel and vehicle storage is done and has created a place for long-term travelers to affordably store their vehicles.

All reservations are made online through their website, you simply go to stowit.com, type the airport you are will be using in the search bar, and pick the option that works best for you. You will find the cheapest rates for long-term car storage and be able to have your car ready for you when you get back. These spots work great for long vacations, second homeowners, and any other reason you may be away from home for an extended amount of time!

Change the way you travel, make your life easier, and give STOW IT a try!

CONTACT:

Emily Tuhkanen

19702860228

[email protected]

SOURCE STOW IT

Related Links

stowit.com


CHICAGO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Stoltmann Law Offices announces DeVry University (Adtalem Global Education Inc., ATGE stock symbol) has been held liable for fraud related to misleading and deceptive advertising practices. Because of this conduct, one of the former students was awarded compensatory damages equal to the amount of tuition for his education, plus attorney fees and costs of litigation. The other student was awarded as damages his tuition and costs associated with pursuing the claim.

In one of the reasoned awards, specific findings were made with respect to DeVry University and the testimony of senior executives. Multiple employees of DeVry University, including the firm's former chief compliance officer, were found to be "not credible." The opinions rendered by DeVry's expert witness, Northwestern professor Jonathan Guryan, were rejected because he was found to have a "defense bias". It was determined DeVry's advertising was "misleading and deceptive" and a violation of the Illinois Consumer Fraud Act. In the second case it was found by a retired federal court judge that DeVry engaged in "unfair and deceptive" conduct with a specific finding that DeVry violated the Georgia Fair Business Practices Act.

According to Chicago attorney Andrew Stoltmann who tried the case: "Two additional arbitrators have concluded after week-long arbitration hearings that DeVry defrauded its students. These decisions come on the heels of a nearly identical decision by another judge in a case handled by our law firm that DeVry defrauded a minority student and she was awarded her tuition, attorney fees, and costs. All three of these cases have made very specific findings about DeVry's abhorrent conduct in defrauding its students. We've secured stunning admissions from senior executives at DeVry University, including the 'police officer' of the Career Services Department. We represent almost 600 students in similar claims against DeVry and we plan on aggressively pursuing all of these claims in JAMS arbitration to obtain the justice these victims deserve and we anticipate similar results for DeVry University."

Stoltmann Law Offices is currently representing former DeVry students who are saddled with life altering debt. These claims are filed as individual arbitration claims for students of DeVry and Keller Graduate School of Management. Please visit www.StudentLoanDebtSlave.com to learn about legal options to sue DeVry for fraudulent advertising claims, discrimination, work place harassment or whistleblowing claims or call us at 312-332-4200.

SOURCE Stoltmann Law Offices

Related Links

https://www.stoltmannlaw.com/


COLLEGE PARK, Md., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The 18th annual Summer Reading List for Business Leaders from the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business covers a range of topics again this year, including corporate strategy, AI, the pandemic, racism, burnout, love, the life of Thomas Edison, and the future of everything.

2030: How Today's Biggest Trends Will Collide and Reshape the Future of Everything by Mauro Guillen: "The book outlines the major trends of today and shows how their interplay will determine our future. Some of the trends will feel familiar, but when Guillen gets into a discussion of the nuances, one finds oneself frequently surprised. For instance, by 2030, more than half the world's wealth will be owned by women, and much of the world's population growth will come from Africa. There is fascinating data, but also multiple powerful stories that bring the numbers to life. It outlines challenges we will face but also illustrates the kind of thinking that will allow us to rise to the challenges. 2030 is not so far away. We will be living and working in that future and need to prepare for it today. This book will be a useful guide for this." Kislaya Prasad, research professor and academic director for the Center for Global Business.

Breakthrough: Elizabeth Hughes, the Discovery of Insulin, and the Making of a Medical Miracle by Thea Cooper and Arthur Ainsberg: "This is a history book the way history should be taught; it is all about the people. You learn a valuable lesson about life from every character described." Samuel Handwerger, CPA and accounting lecturer.

Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson: "This book explains the origins and history of the American hierarchy and how American society influenced other societies globally. This fascinating book relates the American system to other countries, such as India and Germany, and places American culture in a global context." Lauren Rhue, assistant professor of information systems.  "Race as a manufactured concept is the subject of the book Caste. Alleged hierarchies of human beings are created by those who would benefit from it: Nazis over Jews, White male landowners over Africans brought to this country as enslaved people, and certain groups of Indians over others. Caste explores the similarities of these three caste systems, exposes the lies in their construction, and the long tail of destructive consequences that endure today. Incredibly readable, which makes it all the more powerful. If you have a road trip in your plans, listen to it  suitable for teenagers as well as adults."Judy Frels, senior fellow in Executive Development programs and clinical professor of marketing.

Creating Great Choices: A Leader's Guide to Integrative Thinking by Jennifer Riel and Roger L. Martin: "It's a readable, 'how-to' sort of book, including exercises and templates, designed to help leaders develop new solutions to their important strategic decisions. An interesting tool here is the Pro/Pro list (rather than a Pro/Con) list to help leaders identify the key benefits they value from two different models, and then come up with novel options to obtain those benefits." Rebecca K. Ratner, Dean's Professor of Marketing.

Edge: Turning Adversity Into Advantage by Laura Huang: "Have you faced adversity? After this past year, all of us have! This book tells you how to turn what you've faced into an advantage. Harvard Business School professor Laura Huang, who will be joining me on June 23 for an inaugural MBA Book Club event, combines original research with compelling stories. And, if you love self-discovery, you can take Huang's Edge Quiz, which you can find on her website. I found out I'm a 'Creative Celebrity.' I'll take it!" Nicole M. Coomber, assistant dean of the Full-Time MBA program, and associate clinical professor of management and organization.

Edison by Edmund Morris: "Since the specter of COVID-19, we have all become more attuned to the importance of technology in our lives. Our workdays are preoccupied with endless video conferencing on Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Google Meets. Now wind the clock back 142 years in America. Thomas Alva Edison creates and patents the necessary carbon filament to give the world its first incandescent light bulb. This 19th Century technological miracle would usher in an age of unprecedented productivity. In his scrupulously researched account, the late Edmund Morris gives us rare glimpses inside the professional and private life of this towering genius of innovation. Henry C. Boyd III, clinical professor of marketing, consultant, attorney at law.

My Wife Said You May Want To Marry Me by Jason B. Rosenthal: "Several days before her death from ovarian cancer, children's author Amy Krouse Rosenfield published an essay in the New York Times' Modern Love column titled 'You May Want to Marry My Husband.' A creative play on a personal ad, it encouraged her husband to find happiness after she died. The column went viral and reached over five million people worldwide. Her husband, Jason, wrote this book about their love story, his family and their struggle to navigate life without her. With a year full of losses due to COVID-19, this book serves as a reminder that healing is possible and that there is light ahead. A short read that will make you laugh and cry at the same time." Christine M. Schaaf, business communication lecturer.

Quality Shareholders: How the Best Managers Attract and Keep Them by Lawrence A. Cunningham: "I recommend this book, and I am quoted on the book jacket: 'Quality Shareholders highlights the close correlation between patient long-term investors and companies focusing on long-term strategies and profits. Its numerous examples of successfully run corporations with such dedicated shareholders will be of interest to individual and institutional investors alike.'" David Kass, clinical professor of finance.

The Code Breaker: Jennifer Doudna, Gene Editing and the Future of the Human Race by Walter Isaacson: "The story of Jennifer Doudna, Nobel-prize winning biochemist and co-inventor of the gene-editing technology known as CRISPR, relayed in the riveting prose that only a historian can compose is an inspiration to all aspiring women scientists. It offers a compelling window into the 'brave new world' of the future of the life sciences and medicine. Walter Isaacson brings Doudna to life with striking clarity, unveiling how scientific progress and discovery are both a competitive and a team sport." Ritu Agarwal, senior associate dean, Distinguished University Professor, Robert H. Smith Dean's Chair of Information Systems, and co-director of the Center for Health Information and Decision Systems.

The Double X Economy: The Epic Potential of Empowering Women by Linda Scott: "I was honored to have been able to host Linda Scott on a panel this past spring about closing the gender gap in the global economy. We discussed her book in some detail. 'The Double X Economy' examines the economic, cultural, societal and institutional conditions that affect the economic success of women and girls around the globe. Scott argues that undoing the institutionalized systems and rules that hinder women's advancement would raise prosperity and well-being for everyone. She underscores that many of these impediments have been erected and sustained purposefully to foster an uneven distribution of power between the sexes. Furthermore, she notes that the exclusion of women from traditional economic participation has created a shadow economy run by women that is even more collaborative and forward-looking than the one from which they have been systematically excluded. From the villages of Ghana to the slums of Bangladesh, classrooms in the U.S., and even boardrooms in the U.K., Scott takes us around the world to look at this 'double X economy' and how to dismantle barriers and create inclusive economies for the betterment of all." Rebecca L. Bellinger, executive director for Maryland Smith's Center for Global Business.

The Feeling Economy: How Artificial Intelligence Is Creating the Era of Empathy by Roland T. Rust and Ming-Hui Huang: "The book proposes the seemingly counterintuitive notion that the advance of AI is pushing humans to become more feeling-oriented."Roland Rust, Distinguished University Professor, David Bruce Smith Chair in Marketing, and executive director of the Maryland Smith Center for Excellence in Service.

The Premonition by Michael Lewis: "I just finished reading The Premonition by Michael Lewis, which is about the organizational failures  and personal courage  that contributed to our pandemic response this past year. The stories of how individual people worked to overcome organizational and institutional inertia are fascinating and likely to resonate. I think it has a lot of lessons to share about how we need to think differently to get large bureaucracies to step up in crises." Cynthia Kay Stevens, associate professor of management and organization.

Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don't Know by Adam Grant: "Organizational psychologist and Wharton Business School professor Adam Grant argues that it is often more beneficial to let go of our long-held convictions and embrace the joy of being wrong. Using numerous examples (even how N.Y. Yankee fans can root for their bitter rival Boston Red Sox), he shows how rethinking and rethinking one's convictions lead to a path of lifelong learning." Progyan Basu, clinical professor of accounting and information assurance.  "Intelligence is usually seen as the ability to think and learn, but in a rapidly changing world, there's another set of cognitive skills that might matter more: the ability to rethink and unlearn. In our daily lives, too many of us favor the comfort of conviction over the discomfort of doubt. We listen to opinions that make us feel good, instead of ideas that make us think hard. Unlearning and relearning requires more than learning something that you did not know previouslyit requires choosing courage over comfort. When people are resistant to change, it helps to reinforce what will stay the same. In 2004 engineers and designers 'pitched' Steve Jobs on the iPhone by assuring him that they weren't trying to turn Apple into a phone company; it would remain a computer company, but they were only taking their existing product (iPod) and adding a phone on the side. But Mike Lazaridis resisted changing the Blackberry; he was 'trapped in an overconfidence cycle.' After reading this book, I hope that I can be more receptive of ideas that differ from mine. I hope to be a better listener." Elinda Kiss, associate clinical professor of finance.

Unlocking the Customer Value Chain by Thales Teixeira:"Thales Teixeira is a former PhD student of mine, was a professor at Harvard and now runs his own consulting company out of San Diego. The basic premise of the book is that new technology is not the primary driver of digital disruption; it's consumer behavior and preferences. Companies that seek disruptive innovation should understand their customers' value chain, which is made up of the steps consumers take to fulfill their needs." Michel Wedel, Distinguished University Professor and PepsiCo Chair in Consumer Science.

Go to Smith Brain Trust for related content at http://www.rhsmith.umd.edu/faculty-research/smithbraintrust and follow on Twitter @SmithBrainTrust.

Contact: Greg Muraski at [email protected]

SOURCE University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business
OCEAN CITY, Md., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Raymond A. Wood Foundation (RAWF) is hosting the fourth year of "Art of Surviving," a virtual art exhibition that celebrates the creativity of the brain tumor community during the month of May, which is Brain Tumor Awareness Month. Brain tumor patients and survivors, along with caregivers and family members from all over the world submit entries in all types of media, including photography, digital art, drawing, painting, printmaking, 3-D, multimedia, and creative writing.

This painting by Samaya Glazier-Bae, a 9-year-old brain tumor survivor, is on display in the 4th Annual Art of Surviving virtual gallery.

Founded in 2017, the Raymond A. Wood Foundation helps improve the quality of life for hypothalamic-pituitary brain tumor survivors by providing access to education, technology, and evolving treatments.

Many brain tumor survivors use art as a way to cope with the challenges that come with treatment, a means to calm and focus a healing brain or an opportunity to express their experiences.

The idea of this yearly art show came when RAWF's executive director, Amy Wood, saw that her son, treated for a brain tumor at age 4, continually gravitated toward drawing and coloring above all other activities.

"He had never really been interested in art prior to his tumor treatment, and then suddenly coloring and drawing were his go-to," said Wood. "He really seemed to use it as an outlet in times where he clearly needed a break from outside stimulation."

Wood noticed artists emerging among brain tumor groups she participated in online, so she asked a colleague, Olive Mawyer, now the show's coordinator, to help her pull together an art exhibition for the month of May.

"I thought providing a platform for sharing artwork would be a positive thing for the foundation to do during Brain Tumor Awareness Month," said Wood. "I didn't know how it would go, but I figured we would build it and see if people would be interested in participating."

The artwork is judged by a panel of professional artists in all genres who review and score the work and winners receive cash prizes. There is also a People's Choice Award, where citizen judges can cast votes for the submissions that speak to them.

"There are some beautiful and moving expressions through art and writing in the show this year, along with some truly inspiring stories of survival," said Mawyer. "We hope people will take time to explore the gallery and learn more about the experiences of survivors, caregivers and family members."

The public is invited to view the work at www.artofsurviving.gallery and vote on their favorites. Winners will be announced on May 30.

Related Files

Press Release - Art of Surviving (1).pdf

Related Images

the-friend-of-my-heart.jpg

The Friend of My Heart

This painting by Samaya Glazier-Bae, a 9-year-old brain tumor survivor, is on display in the 4th Annual Art of Surviving virtual gallery.

Related Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2pDu18ssljo

SOURCE Raymond A. Wood Foundation
"The American Kennel Club is deeply saddened by the news of K9 Kozmo's passing," said AKC Executive Secretary, Gina DiNardo. "He was an exemplary K9 police dog for the Mesquite Police Department, making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. We are proud to honor him with an AKC Paw of Courage award to recognize his hard work and valor in the service of his community. May K9 Kozmo rest in eternal peace."

K9 Kozmo was a five-year-old Dutch Shepherd mix who served the Mesquite Police Department honorably for more than four years with his partner, Officer Crawford. In late April 2021, the Mesquite Police Department was assisting a neighboring agency in a vehicle pursuit involving multiple armed robbery suspects. Two of the suspects were immediately apprehended and another two fled into a nearby wooded area. K9 Kozmo and his partner Officer Crawford were called in to track the suspects. During the subsequent search, K9 Kozmo was killed by one of the suspects.

"K9 Kozmo died while valiantly serving our community," said Mesquite Police Sergeant, B. Meyer. "While we mourn the loss of our family member, we appreciate his sacrifice and know that his service has made Mesquite a safer place to live and work."

When K9 Kozmo was not patrolling the streets, he was busy doing public demonstrations, educating and interacting with members of the Mesquite community. He was a loyal partner to his handler and a dedicated servant to the community.

Any dog is eligible to receive an AKC Paw of Courage; the award is not specific to purebred dogs. Paw of Courage awards can be presented to Police K-9s, Military Working Dogs, Therapy Dogs, Service Dogs and other canines that work to make the lives of the people around them safer, easier or just simply happier. To nominate a dog for a Paw of Courage award, click here.

About American Kennel Club

Founded in 1884, the American Kennel Club is a not-for-profit organization which maintains the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world and oversees the sport of purebred dogs in the United States. The AKC is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its registry, promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Along with its more than 5,000 licensed and member clubs and its affiliated organizations, the AKC advocates for the purebred dog as a family companion, advances canine health and well-being, works to protect the rights of all dog owners and promotes responsible dog ownership. More than 22,000 competitions for AKC-registered purebred and mixed-breed dogs are held under AKC rules and regulations each year including conformation, agility, obedience, rally, tracking, herding, lure coursing, coonhound events, hunt tests, field and earthdog tests. Affiliate AKC organizations include the AKC Humane Fund, AKC Canine Health Foundation, AKC Reunite and the AKC Museum of the Dog. For more information, visit www.akc.org.



AKC, American Kennel Club, the American Kennel Club seal and design, and all associated marks and logos are trademarks, registered trademarks and service marks of The American Kennel Club, Inc.

SOURCE American Kennel Club

Related Links

www.akc.org


SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Dominican Republic (the " Republic ") announced today the commencement of an offer to purchase for cash (the " Offer ") from each holder or beneficial owner (each, a " Holder " and, collectively, the " Holders ") of outstanding DOP-denominated, Dominican law-governed notes of each series listed in the table below (collectively, the " Existing Local Notes " and each a " series " of Existing Local Notes), including Existing Local Notes in the form of Global Depositary Notes (the " Existing GDNs " and, together with the Existing Local Notes, the " Existing Notes " and each, a " series " of Existing GDNs or Existing Notes, as applicable), issued by Citibank, N.A., as GDN depositary (the " GDN Depositary "), such that the total Purchase Price (as defined below) to be paid by the Republic for the outstanding principal amount of Existing Notes validly tendered and accepted for purchase by the Republic pursuant to the Offer, excluding interest accrued and unpaid thereon, does not exceed a maximum amount to be determined by the Republic in its sole discretion (the " Maximum Purchase Price "). The terms and conditions of the Offer are set forth in the offer document dated May 26, 2021 (the " Offer Document ").

The Offer is not conditioned upon any minimum participation of any series of Existing Notes but is conditioned, among other things, on the concurrent (or earlier) closing of an issuance by the Republic of a new series of DOP-denominated, Dominican law-governed notes (the " New Local Notes "), in an aggregate principal amount, with pricing and on terms and conditions acceptable to the Republic in its sole discretion (the " New Notes Offering "). The New Notes Offering will be made solely by means of an offering memorandum relating to the offering of the New Local Notes, and neither this announcement nor the Offer Document constitutes an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy such notes.

The Republic reserves the right, in its sole discretion, not to accept any valid orders to tender Existing Notes in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Offer (" Tenders "), to modify the fixed price per original DOP1,000 or US$1,000 principal amount, as applicable, indicated in the rightmost column in the table below (the " Purchase Price ") for any or all series of Existing Notes, or to terminate the Offer for any reason. In the event of a termination of the Offer, the tendered Existing Notes will be returned to the tendering Holder.

The Purchase Price plus the accrued and unpaid interest up to, but excluding, the Settlement Date (the " Accrued Interest ") for the applicable series of Existing GDNs will be payable in U.S. dollars by converting the applicable DOP amounts to U.S. dollars based on the Representative Market Rate at the Expiration Time.

If the Purchase Price for all validly tendered Existing Notes (the " Tendered Aggregate Purchase Price ") would exceed the Maximum Purchase Price, then the Republic will, in its sole discretion, select one or more series of Existing Notes to be prorated on the basis of the same or different proration factors.

Title of Existing Notes Outstanding Aggregate Principal Amount as of May 25, 2021 ISIN CUSIP Purchase Price(1) 16.950% DOP-Denominated Notes due February 2022 DOP 12,000,000,000.00 DO1005241125 N/A DOP1,082.44 GDNs representing 16.950% DOP-Denominated Notes due February 2022(2) 144A: US25714PBN78 Reg S: US25714PBP27 144A: 25714PBN7 Reg S: 25714PBP2









10.375% DOP-Denominated Notes due March 2022 DOP13,500,000,000.00 DO1005204719 N/A DOP1,042.08 GDNs representing 10.375% DOP-Denominated Notes due March 2022(2) 144A: US25714WAE30 Reg S: XS1203837528 144A: 25714WAE3 Reg S: N/A









14.500% DOP-Denominated Notes due February 2023 DOP9,648,000,000.00 DO1005250928 N/A DOP1,127.94 GDNs representing14.500% DOP-Denominated Notes due February 2023(2) 144A: US25714PBW77 Reg S: XS0900687681 144A: 25714PBW7 Reg S: N/A









10.500% DOP-Denominated Notes due April 2023 DOP31,871,300,000.00 DO1005205914 N/A DOP1,079.48 GDNs representing 10.500% DOP-Denominated Notes due April 2023(2) 144A: US25714WBB81 Reg S: XS1597325098 144A: 25714WBB8 Reg S: N/A









10.250% DOP-Denominated Notes due January 2024 DOP10,900,000,000.00 DO1005206623 N/A DOP1,088.64 GDNs representing 10.250% DOP-Denominated Notes due January 2024(2) 144A: US25714WBF95 Reg S: XS1936097911 144A: 25714WBF9 Reg S: N/A









11.500% DOP-Denominated Notes due May 2024 DOP20,614,000,000.00 DO1005204214 N/A DOP1,133.86 GDNs representing 11.500% DOP-Denominated Notes due May 2024(2) 144A: US25714PCM86 Reg S: XS1084826483 144A: 25714PCM8 Reg S: N/A









10.875% DOP-Denominated Notes due January 2026 DOP20,000,000,000.00 DO1005205112 N/A DOP1,169.87 GDNs representing 10.875% DOP-Denominated Notes due January 2026(2) 144A: US25714PDK12 Reg S: XS1355504181 144A: 25714PDK1 Reg S: N/A









10.375% DOP-Denominated Notes due March 2026 DOP12,000,000,000.00 DO1005205013 N/A DOP1,132.45 GDNs representing 10.375% DOP-Denominated Notes due March 2026(2) 144A: US25714WAF05 Reg S: XS1243876551 144A: 25714WAF0 Reg S: N/A









11.000% DOP-Denominated Notes due November 2026 DOP20,000,000,000.00 DO1005205310 N/A DOP1,182.63 GDNs representing 11.000% DOP-Denominated Notes due November 2026(2) 144A: US25714WAG87 Reg S: XS1410454406 144A: 25714WAG8 Reg S: N/A









11.000% DOP-Denominated Notes due December 2026 DOP16,000,000,000.00 DO1005205419 N/A DOP1,176.84 GDNs representing 11.000% DOP-Denominated Notes due December 2026(2) 144A: US25714WAL72 Reg S: XS1433115893 144A: 25714WAL7 Reg S: N/A









11.250% DOP-Denominated Notes due February 2027 DOP27,705,000,000.00 DO1005205617 N/A DOP1,184.23 GDNs representing 11.250% DOP-Denominated Notes due February 2027(2) 144A: US25714PDR64 Reg S: XS1514991048 144A: 25714PDR6 Reg S: N/A













(1) Per DOP1,000 principal amount of the Existing Local Notes and Existing GDNs, in each case, validly tendered and accepted for purchase. Holders whose Existing Notes are validly tendered and accepted for purchase pursuant to the Offer will also receive Accrued Interest. Holders whose Existing Local Notes are validly tendered and accepted for purchase pursuant to the Offer will be paid in Dominican pesos and Holders whose Existing GDNs are validly tendered and accepted for purchase pursuant to the Offer will be paid in U.S. dollars as described in the Offer Document. (2) Issued by the GDN Depositary, and which, if accepted for purchase pursuant to the Offer, will be payable in U.S. dollars as described herein. Each Existing GDN represents DOP100,000 nominal amount of the corresponding Existing Local Notes.

Holders tendering Existing Local Notes through CEVALDOM, Deposito Centralizado de Valores, S.A. (" CEVALDOM ") may obtain a priority allocation code (the " Priority Allocation Code ") from CEVALDOM. Holders tendering Existing GDNs may obtain a Priority Allocation Code by contacting either of the Dealer Managers, and should include their Priority Allocation Code in their ATOP or Electronic Acceptance Instruction (in each case, as defined herein). Tendering Holders who wish to subscribe for New Local Notes (including in the form of new GDNs) should include their Priority Allocation Code when subscribing for New Local Notes. The Republic will review Tenders received on or prior to the Expiration Time and may give priority to those investors tendering with Priority Allocation Code in connection with the allocation of New Local Notes. However, no assurances can be given that any Holder that tenders Existing Notes will be given an allocation of New Local Notes at the levels it may subscribe for, or at all.

If the Republic accepts all or a portion of a Holder's Tender, the Holder will be entitled to receive for such Existing Notes the applicable Purchase Price plus Accrued Interest, which will be paid on the Settlement Date, if the conditions of the Offer are met.

The Offer will commence on Wednesday, May 26, 2021 and the Offer and withdrawal rights will expire at 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on Monday, June 7, 2021 (the " Expiration Time ") unless extended or earlier terminated by the Republic in its sole discretion. Existing Notes may be validly withdrawn at any time at or prior to the Expiration Time. The settlement of validly tendered and accepted Existing Notes is expected to occur on Friday, June 11, 2021, subject to change without notice (the " Settlement Date ").

At or about 9:00 a.m. (New York City time) on Tuesday, June 8, 2021, subject to change without notice, the Republic expects to announce the aggregate principal amount of Tenders of each series of Existing Notes that has been received on or prior to the Expiration Time and the Representative Market Rate on the Expiration Time.

In addition, at or about 9:00 a.m. (New York City time) on Wednesday, June 9, 2021, subject to change without notice, the Republic expects to announce (i) the Maximum Purchase Price; (ii) the Tendered Aggregate Purchase Price, (iii) the aggregate principal amount of Tenders of each series of Existing Notes that has been accepted; and (iv) any proration of Tenders of any series of Existing Notes.

Tenders for Existing Local Notes must be submitted through a direct participant in CEVALDOM. Holders of Existing GDNs must tender Existing GDNs by requesting that the direct participant through which the Holder holds its Existing GDNs submit, at or prior to the Expiration Time, such Holder's Tender by properly instructing The Depository Trust Company (" DTC "), Euroclear Bank SA/NV, as operator of the Euroclear System (" Euroclear "), or Clearstream Banking, S.A. (" Clearstream "), as applicable, in accordance with the procedures and deadlines established by each such clearing system. Any Holder that holds Existing Notes through a custodian cannot submit an Offer directly and should instead contact its custodian to instruct the direct participant to submit a Tender on its behalf. There is no letter of transmittal or guaranteed delivery for the Offer. The acceptance of any Tenders forwarded to DTC from Euroclear or Clearstream after the Expiration Time will be in the sole discretion of the Republic.

You are advised to consult with the broker, dealer, bank, custodian, trust company, or other nominee through which you hold your Existing Notes as to the deadlines by which such intermediary would require receipt of instruction from you to participate in the Offer in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Offer as described in the Offer Document in order to meet the deadlines set out in the Offer Document. The deadlines set by CEVALDOM, Euroclear, Clearstream, DTC or any such intermediary for the submission of Existing Notes may be earlier than the relevant deadlines specified in the Offer Document. In particular, CEVALDOM has indicated that the deadline for tendering through its system is 4:00 p.m. (New York City time) on Monday, June 7, 2021.

The Offer Document may be downloaded from website of Global Bondholder Services Corporation (the " Tender and Information Agent ") at https://www.gbsc-usa.com/dominican/ or obtained from the Tender and Information Agent or from any of the Dealer Managers at the contact information below. Questions regarding the Offer may be directed to the Dealer Managers at the below contact information.

The Dealer Managers for the Offer are:

Citigroup Global Markets Inc. 388 Greenwich Street, Floor 7 New York, New York 10013 United States of America Attn: Liability Management Group Collect: +1 (212) 723-6106 Toll-Free: +1 (800) 558-3745 In the Dominican Republic: +1-809-473-2428 Email: [email protected] J.P. Morgan Securities LLC

383 Madison Avenue

New York, New York 10179

United States of America

Attn: Latin America Debt Capital Markets

Collect: +1 (212) 834-7279

Toll-Free: +1 (866) 846-2874

The Tender and Information Agent for the Existing GDNs is:

Global Bondholder Services Corporation

65 Broadway  Suite 404

New York, New York 10006

United States of America

Attn: Corporate Actions

Banks and Brokers call: +1 (212) 430-3774

Toll free +1 (866) 470-3900

Email: [email protected]

Offer Website: https://www.gbsc-usa.com/dominican/

By facsimile:

(For Eligible Institutions only):

+1 (212) 430-3775/3779

Confirmation:

+1 (212) 430-3774

By Mail: By Overnight Courier: By Hand: 65 Broadway  Suite 404 New York, New York 10006 United States of America 65 Broadway  Suite 404 New York, New York 10006 United States of America 65 Broadway  Suite 404 New York, New York 10006 United States of America

Important Notice

This announcement is for informational purposes only. It is not complete and may not contain all the information that you should consider before tendering Existing Notes. You should read the entire Offer Document.

This announcement is not an offer to purchase for cash or a solicitation of invitations for offers to purchase for cash any Existing Notes. The distribution of materials relating to the Offer and the transactions contemplated thereby may be restricted by law in certain jurisdictions. The Offer is being made only by the Offer Document and in those jurisdictions where it is legal to do so. The Offer is void in all jurisdictions where it is prohibited. If materials relating to the Offer come into your possession, you are required to inform yourself of and to observe all of these restrictions. Each person accepting the Offer shall be deemed to have represented, warranted and agreed (in respect of itself and any person for whom it is acting) that it is not a person to whom it is unlawful to make the Offer pursuant to the Offer Document, it has not distributed or forwarded the Offer Document or any other documents or materials relating to the Offer to any such person, and that it has complied with all laws and regulations applicable to it for purposes of participating in the Offer. Neither the Republic nor the Dealer Managers accepts any responsibility for any violation by any person of the restrictions applicable in any jurisdiction.

The materials relating to the Offer, including this announcement, do not constitute, and may not be used in connection with, an offer or solicitation in any place where offers or solicitations are not permitted by law. This announcement and the Offering Document do not constitute an offer to buy or a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities in any jurisdiction to any person to whom it is unlawful to make such offer or solicitation in such jurisdiction. In any jurisdiction in which the Offer is required to be made by a licensed broker or dealer and in which any Dealer Manager or any of its affiliates is so licensed, it shall be deemed to be made by the Dealer Managers or such affiliates on behalf of the Republic.

SOURCE The Dominican Republic
PHILADELPHIA, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The India Fund, Inc. (the "Fund") (NYSE: IFN) held its Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the "Meeting") on May 27, 2021. At the Meeting, shareholders of the Fund voted to elect two Class I Directors to the Board of Directors and to approve the continuation of the term of one Director under the Fund's Corporate Governance Policies.

As of the record date, April 12, 2021, the Fund had outstanding 26,904,575 shares of common stock. 71.83% of outstanding common stock were voted representing a quorum.

The description of the proposal and number of shares voted at the Meeting are as follows:

To elect two Class I Directors to the Board of Directors:



Votes For Votes Against Votes Abstained Alan Goodson 16,526,131 2,660,628 140,074 Jeswald Salacuse 16,330,116 2,854,373 142,346

To approve the continuation of Term for one Director under the Corporate Governance Policies:



Votes For Votes Against Votes Abstained Luis Rubio 16,591,151 2,582,018 153,667

Also effective at the shareholder meeting on May 27, 2021, the term of Martin J. Gilbert expired. The Board would like to extend its sincere gratitude to Mr. Gilbert and acknowledge the invaluable contributions that he made to the Fund during his tenure and wish him the best of success in all his future endeavours. Also effective at the shareholder meeting, the Board appointed Alan Goodson to serve as a Class I Director.

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 (NAV) of the fund's portfolio. There is no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective.

If you wish to receive this information electronically, please contact [email protected]

aberdeenifn.com

SOURCE The India Fund, Inc.

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LUMBERTON, N.J., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- BLANCO embraces small space living by adding the QUATRUS R15 Medium Apron to their stainless steel apron front sink collection. The QUATRUS R15 brings a whole new level of design versatility to space-challenged kitchens, even fitting compact 27" cabinets.

BLANCO QUATRUS R15 Medium Apron Front in Stainless BLANCO QUATRUS R15 Medium Apron Front in Stainless

The new QUATRUS R15 Apron Front sink is an ultra-compact 25" wide farmhouse sink with a generous 9" bowl depth. The contemporary design features soft, rounded outside corners and easy-to-clean 15 mm radius inside corners. The result is a sink with a fresh, modern farmhouse look that will solve many of the challenges faced in compact kitchens. The QUATRUS R15 Medium is made of durable, 18-gauge stainless steel with 18/10 chrome-nickel content for exceptional luster and strength.

"With its unparalleled engineering and luxurious appeal, the QUATRUS R15 Medium is the ideal sink choice for small kitchens in urban settings," states BLANCO's Director of Brand & Communications for North America, Edyta Drutis. "We are happy to present a solution that helps homeowners make the most of their space with quality materials and functional design."

Optional accessories include a protective grid, 3-in-1 basket strainer, colander and custom-fitted cutting boards in glass or ash compound  efficiently extending your kitchen workspace, saving time and increasing ergonomics. BLANCO QUATRUS R15 Medium Apron List Price: $1,125.

About BLANCO

BLANCO is all about residential kitchen water hub systems that are meticulously designed down to the finest detail. The brand has won over consumers worldwide with its modern design, ergonomic handling and reliable product quality. All components, from the kitchen faucet to the sink and accessories, are perfectly integrated with one another. BLANCO systems make a significant contribution towards sustainably upgrading kitchens around the globe with everyday convenience when it comes to preparing food, drinking and cleaning.

Founded over 95 years ago, the company is now a leading manufacturer worldwide. With subsidiaries in Europe, North America and Asia, plus its trading partners, BLANCO has a presence in approximately 100 countries and offers its customers a portfolio that is tailored to consumer needs. The company headquarters and key production sites in support of North American demand are in Southwest Germany and Canada.

Established in 1925 by Heinrich Blanc, BLANCO is part of Blanc & Fischer Family Holding. BLANCO America has been proudly serving the U.S. market for over 30 years.

blanco.com

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SOURCE BLANCO
SAN FRANCISCO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Gryphon Investors ("Gryphon"), a leading middle-market private equity firm, announced today that it has acquired a majority stake in the ServiceNow division of Highmetric, a global digital IT services provider, from The Acacia Group ("Acacia"), which has retained a minority investment in the company. The standalone ServiceNow business will continue to be known as Highmetric, while the non-ServiceNow divisions have been rebranded as MajorKey Technologies and will continue to be backed by The Acacia Group. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Highmetric is an Elite Partner of ServiceNow, the cloud computing platform that helps companies optimize digital workflows, and offers significant capabilities in Customer Service Management, HR & Employee IT Service Management, and IT Operations Management. Named ServiceNow's Americas Partner of the Year in 2021 for its Customer Service Management offering, Highmetric serves customers across many industries, including the financial services, business services, technology, industrials & energy sectors, as well as the U.S. Government.

Gryphon also announced its first two additions to the Highmetric family, with definitive agreements to acquire Fishbone Analytics, Inc. and Iceberg Networks. These strategic additions will make the combined Highmetric the largest pure-play ServiceNow partner in the world, with 300 team members who bring expertise and experience across ServiceNow offerings with the added benefit of global delivery capabilities.

Calgary-based Fishbone Analytics, led by Matt Nielsen, CEO, is an Elite ServiceNow Partner that brings domain expertise in the areas of Integrations, HR Service Delivery, Customer Service Management, IT Operations Management, IT Asset Management, IT Business Management, and IT Service Management. Iceberg Networks, led by Ken McPherson, CEO, is the 2021 ServiceNow Global Premier Partner of the Year and 2021 Americas Premier Partner of the Year, and brings sophisticated Security Operations Management and Governance, Risk & Compliance / Integrated Risk Management to the combined entity. Iceberg Networks' deep domain expertise and security operations enable their customers to make trusted, aggregated, and transparent business decisions.

Gabe Stephenson, Managing Director at Gryphon said, "Gryphon is extremely excited to be partnering with the talented teams at Highmetric, Fishbone, and Iceberg. We have a well-developed thesis around the power of ServiceNow to optimize digital transformation workflows and believe that these are the best three businesses for us to initially invest behind to create a differentiated market leader in this space." Alex Earls, Deal Partner and Head of Gryphon's Business Services Group, added, "This investment is a strong match with our past track record and we are looking forward to supporting management to rapidly scale the business organically and through additional strategic acquisitions."

As part of the transaction, Matt Stoyka has joined Highmetric as CEO and Den Roenfeldt has become Executive Chair. Mr. Stoyka has over 20 years of experience in both the technology services and manufacturing industries and most recently served as the Chief Solutions Officer and Chief Relationship Officer at Rackspace. Mr. Roenfeldt was most recently a Deloitte Consulting Senior Principal and served as the Global Lead Client Services Partner for Deloitte's ServiceNow business across the firm.

Mr. Stoyka said, "The combination of Highmetric, Fishbone Analytics, and Iceberg Networks represents a complete and total commitment to the ServiceNow ecosystem and to our customers. Our customers have told us they need a full-service firm with domain expertise enhanced by deep industry focus. We are primed and ready to work closely with our clients and ServiceNow to introduce powerful workflow solutions that drive meaningful business results. With the support of Gryphon Investors, we will also continue to invest heavily in the growth of our amazing and talented team. It is a privilege to be part of this transformation and to have the ability to influence and positively impact our customers, our partners, and our communities."

Guggenheim Partners and 7Mile Advisors served as financial advisors to Gryphon, and Kirkland & Ellis served as Gryphon's legal advisor. Jefferies served as the exclusive financial advisor to Highmetric and Miles & Stockbridge P.C. served as Highmetric's legal counsel. Transact Capital Partners LLC served as the exclusive financial advisor to both Fishbone Analytics and Iceberg Networks, with Labarge Weinstein as legal counsel to both companies.

About Highmetric

Highmetric is a technology strategy, design and operations partner to public and private organizations around the world, with unmatched expertise on the ServiceNow platform, the leading digital transformation and workflow engine in the world. In business for over 20 years, Highmetric offers expertise in Service Management, Intelligent Integrations, and Risk and Security Management. By providing guidance through the complex technology landscape, Highmetric helps clients develop the digital strategies that allow them to engage in new opportunities and realize their vision. For more information, please visit www.highmetric.com.

About Fishbone Analytics

Founded in 2013 as an Analytics-as-a-Service Company, Fishbone expanded into the ServiceNow ecosystem in 2016 and is now a Canadian leader in the design, implementation, automation, and support of business workflows on the ServiceNow platform. Based in Calgary, Alberta, the company's ServiceNow practice is aligned to ServiceNow's core capabilities including HR Service Delivery, Customer Service Management, IT Operations Management, IT Asset Management, IT Business Management, and IT Service Management. For more information please visit www.fishbone-analytics.com .

About Iceberg Networks

Iceberg Networks plans, deploys, and manages successful programs for Integrated Risk Management (IRM) and Security Operations across Financial Services, Health Care, Government, Manufacturing, and Retail industries. By providing trusted, aggregated, and transparent risk & security intelligence, Iceberg enables organizations to make confident and effective business decisions. For more information please visit www.icebergnetworks.com.

About Gryphon Investors

Based in San Francisco, Gryphon Investors ( www.gryphoninvestors.com ) is a leading private equity firm focused on profitably growing and competitively enhancing middle-market companies in partnership with experienced management. The firm has managed over $5.0 billion of equity investments and capital since 1997. Gryphon targets making equity investments of $50 million to $300 million in portfolio companies with enterprise values ranging from approximately $100 million to $600 million. Gryphon prioritizes investment opportunities where it can form strong partnerships with owners and executives to build leading companies, utilizing Gryphon's capital, specialized professional resources, and operational expertise.

Contacts

Lambert & Co.

Caroline Luz, 203-656-2829, [email protected]

Jennifer Hurson, 845-507-0571, [email protected]

SOURCE Gryphon Investors

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"The Educator of the Year award honors teachers in our community who are innovators in their field and pillars of their community," said Rob Stuart, President and Chief Executive Officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. "This year's nomination process introduced us to teachers who go above and beyond to create inclusive and safe learning environments, while transforming their curriculum and adopting creative ways to engage their students through virtual or hybrid learning. With so many exceptional teachers to choose from this year, we are delighted to honor Lionel, Travis and Addie as the 2021 Educators of the Year."

Since the OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education began in 2010, OnPoint has awarded more than $470,000 in prizes to 285 local educators and schools thus far. This year's contest will award up to an additional $100,000 to deserving public and private K-12 teachers and schools.

2021 Educators of the Year

The three winners of the 2021 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education Educator of the Year awards are:

K-5 Educator of the Year  Lionel Clegg

1st grade, Woodlawn Elementary School, Portland Public Schools, Portland, Ore.

A former Woodlawn Elementary student, Lionel Clegg bases his passion for teaching fellow Wildcats on the importance of a solid educational foundation, leading him to teach at the primary level for 23 years. He challenges his students while supporting and encouraging them at the same time. Lionel's lessons build critical learners and thinkers while also creating a safe and structured environment for students to learn and grow. Each national heritage or celebration month, his lessons focus on current and historical trailblazers from each specific community. He has developed an original classroom activity entitled "Word Work" that has expanded his first-graders' vocabulary. Lionel also shares the history of the Northeast Portland neighborhood with students and families through a presentation he created with the Woodlawn Neighborhood Association.

Lionel has served in various roles at Woodlawn Elementary, including an after-school tutor for the Sun School program and the leader of Boys of Distinction, a mentoring program he created for 3-5th grade boys. He advocates for diversity, equity and inclusion within his school and across the greater Portland community through longstanding partnerships with The Black Parent Initiative, Self Enhancement Inc. and the Portland Teach Program Alumni Alliance.

6-8 Educator of the Year  Travis Rooke-Ley

8th grade math, Whitford Middle School, Beaverton School District, Beaverton, Ore.

Travis Rooke-Ley is known for going above and beyond to develop community in his classroom and make all students feel welcome and valued. His unique teaching style often applies real-world situations to math concepts such as housing, interest, loans and college tuition, to give his students a real sense of why these topics matter and how they will impact their future. As a teacher of students with diverse backgrounds, Travis has committed to acknowledging their varied life experiences and building his instruction around them.

Travis created a peer tutor program with Structured Routines Classroom to help bridge the divide between students. This program provides an environment for neurotypical students to work with others who experience autism, intellectual disabilities and communication disorders to foster peer experiences and stronger connections within the school community. Travis also started the school's online newspaper during the pandemic, which has become an instrumental tool in building community and informing students about global issues and events.

9-12 Educator of the Year  Addie Lyden

9-12th grade history, law and AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) teacher, Southridge High School, Beaverton School District, Beaverton, Ore.

After more than 20 years of teaching, Addie believes education is more than pushing students to write the perfect essay. It's about listening to students and learning about them. Addie builds trust with her students by getting to know them and prioritizing their mental and physical well-being with academics. She fosters a classroom environment that creates a safe and open dialogue about world history and how it has impacted underserved communities. Addie created an "Immigrant Voices" board for her students to share anonymous letters about their experiences with immigration and what they think it means to be an American. In addition, she led a community and district-wide discussion featuring Black students entitled "Black Student Voices: Navigating a time of crisis in America," sparking conversation around the most critical issues Black students face today.

As a teacher on special assignment (TOSA), Addie and a team of teachers from other local high schools analyzed academic achievement data, curricula and school traditions to address the widening achievement gap in her school and across the district. She and her colleagues discovered longstanding racist practices routinely silencing BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ students, causing some students to fail and others to succeed. Since then, Addie has made it her mission to break down historical barriers to academic achievement. She conducts home visits to encourage chronically absent students to come back to school, participates in book clubs with other educators to discuss critical issues, and restructured her curriculum to give voice to those perspectives and cultures that were previously ignored.

2021 Educator of the Year Finalists

OnPoint will also award a $5,000 cash prize to the following 2021 finalists and make a $1,500 donation to their schools for resources and supplies.

K-5 Finalist  Aarti Kamalahasan

Kindergarten, Sato Elementary School, Beaverton School District, Beaverton, Ore.

6-8 Finalist  Beckie Plaza

6-8th grade science, Lake Oswego Junior High School, Lake Oswego School District, Lake Oswego, Ore.

9-12 Finalist  Desmond Spann

9-10th grade English, Franklin High School, Portland Public Schools, Portland, Ore.

Five Schools Receive Community Builder Awards

In addition to the Educator of the Year awards, the 2021 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education also awarded five schools across Oregon with one $5,000 and four $2,000 Community Builder grants for special projects that enrich their communities. Click here to read about this year's winners, which OnPoint announced on May 11, 2021.

A Growing Commitment to Excellence in Education

The OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education is just one element of the credit union's 89-year commitment to quality education in the region. Since OnPoint was founded in 1932 by 16 school teachers, it has exponentially grown its commitment to students and teachers in Oregon and Southwest Washington. Click here to learn more about what OnPoint is doing to ensure students across the community have access to quality education.

ABOUT ONPOINT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 437,000 members and with assets of $8.3 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union's membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler, and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. More information is available at www.onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077 or 800-527-3932.

SOURCE OnPoint Community Credit Union
ALBANY, N.Y., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Urbanization levels are observing a steady rise across many regions around the world. The rising disposable income and the rapidly thriving rural-to-urban migration trend will bring promising growth for the isononyl acrylate market.

As urbanization picks up, the construction sector is witnessing a positive demand trajectory. This demand is directly proportional to the growth of the isononyl acrylate market as the material is used in many applications related to the construction sector. All these aspects will serve as extensive growth factors for the isononyl acrylate market during the tenure of 2019-2027.

Isononyl acrylate is a special acrylate type derived from the reaction of acrylic acid and isononyl alcohol. It has a minimum glass transition temperature as compared to other commercially available acrylates. This is the prominent benefit of using isononyl acrylate, which in turn, generates great demand from end-users. The aforementioned factors will bring positive growth prospects for the isononyl acrylate market.

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The analysts at Transparency Market Research (TMR), after conducting thorough and deep research estimate the isononyl acrylate market to record a CAGR of 2.5 percent during the forecast period of 2019-2027. The global isononyl acrylate market was valued at US$ 10.6 mn in 2018 and is pegged to reach a valuation of more than US$ 13.4 mn by 2027, the end year of the forecast period.

The heightening demand for isononyl acrylate across many end-users other than construction such as automotive and others will bring good growth prospects during the assessment period. In addition, the focus of many countries to encourage spending on transport infrastructure and renovation of old structures may bode well for the growth of the isononyl acrylate market.

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Key Findings of the Report

Research and Development Activities to Play a Key Role in the Growth of the Isononyl Acrylate Market

The players in the isononyl acrylate market are always in the process of finding new formulations that enhance the material's quality and usage. For deriving novel formulations, the players invest heavily in research and development activities. The growing focus on research and development activities turns out to be a revenue booster for the players, ultimately increasing the growth rate of the isononyl acrylate market.

Magnifying Industrialization Levels in Developing Countries to Bring Tremendous Growth Opportunities

The industrialization levels in developing countries like India and China are increasing at a rapid rate. The growing industrialization has resulted in an infrastructural boom. The large spending on ramping up the transport infrastructure by many developing countries due to the booming industrialization and urbanization levels will prove to be a boon for the isononyl acrylate market.

View Detailed Table of Contents at https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/6038

Isononyl Acrylate Market: Growth Drivers

The rising demand for paints and coatings across many segments like construction, automotive, and others will serve as a vital growth generator for the isononyl acrylate market as it is used as a prominent component in developing paints and coatings.

Isononyl acrylate has a low glass transition temperature, which makes it a favorite among many end-users, eventually influencing the growth opportunities across the assessment period.

The adhesives industry will contribute largely to the growth of the isononyl acrylate market.

Isononyl Acrylate Market: Restraints

The availability of cheaper substitutes such as butyl acrylate, 2EHA, ethyl acrylate, and methyl acrylate will hamper the growth across the isononyl acrylate market.

The prolonged time for synthesizing isononyl acrylate will also prove to be a major growth-damaging factor for the isononyl acrylate market.

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SOURCE Transparency Market Research
"William, Kenny, and I realized that there was a strong need for an auto styling business in our community of Fremont," Helmand said. "Tint World offers high-end products that are sure to please all customers. In addition to providing great products, the team at headquarters showcases excellence in franchisee support and training. With their help, we will be able to provide our community with the services they need to customize their vehicles, homes/offices, and even marine craft  all from this brand-new, state-of-the-art location."

Tint World Fremont, California offers a full variety of products and services, including window tinting, advanced driver-assistance systems, car stereo upgrades, custom wheel and tire packages, mobile electronics, nano ceramic coatings, paint protection films, security systems, color-change vehicle wraps, and residential and commercial window film.

"Frank, William, and Kenny are passionate entrepreneurs that possess the knowledge and skills to run a successful franchise," said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. "They will help us promote excellence under the Tint World brand as we continue our expansion."

Tint World Fremont is located at 3030 Osgood Court, Fremont, CA 94539. For additional information, call (510) 471-3880 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/ca/fremont-019/.

About Tint World

Founded in 1982, Tint World has grown to become the leading franchise provider of automotive styling, residential, commercial and marine window tinting and security film services. With Automotive Styling Centers in the U.S. and abroad, each franchise location houses approximately 20 profit centers, ranging from in-store accessory installations to off-site sales and installation of residential, commercial and marine window tinting and security films. To find out more, please visit www.TintWorld.com and www.TintWorldFranchise.com. You can also like them on Facebook.

Tint World Contact:

Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO

888-944-8468

[email protected]

Media Contact:

Heather Ripley

Ripley PR

865-977-1973

[email protected]

SOURCE Tint World
SELBYVILLE, Del., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the latest report "Total Knee Replacement Market by Product (Primary Knee Replacement Systems, Revision Knee Replacement Systems, Partial Knee Replacement Systems), Device Type (Three-compartmental Knee Implants, Bicompartmental Knee Implants, Unicompartmental Knee Implants), Component (Femoral, Tibial, Patellar), Implant Type (Fixed-Bearing Implants, Mobile-Bearing Implants, Medial Pivot Implants), Design (Cruciate Retaining, Posterior Stabilized Design), Surgery Type (Traditional Surgery Type, Technology Assisted Surgery Type) Fixation Material (Cemented, Cementless, Hybrid), Material (Metal-on-plastic, Ceramic-on-plastic, Ceramic-on-ceramic, Metal-on-metal), Polyethylene Inserts (Conventional Polyethylene Inserts, Highly Cross-Linked Polyethylene Inserts, Antioxidant Polyethylene Inserts), End-use (Hospitals, Ambulatory Surgical Centers), Regional Outlook, Price Trends, Competitive Market Share & Forecast 2027", by Global Market Insights Inc., the market valuation of total knee replacement will cross $12.5 billion by 2027.

Major total knee replacement market players include Amplitude Ortho (Amplitude Surgical), B Braun Melsungen AG, ConforMIS Inc., Corin Group, Johnson & Johnson (Depuy Synthes), DJO Global, Exactech Inc., Mathys Ltd Bettlach, Medacta International,

The demand for personalized and patient specific implants are rising globally owing to the technological advancements in knee implants as it offers reduced operating time and better anatomic fit. However, utilization of imprecise knee implants has often led to disadvantages such as pain, nausea, and discomfort. Thus, the need for firmer surgical fit has made manufacturers of knee implants acknowledge the rising need for patient-centric implant designs. Therefore, various manufacturers have made progressive strategies to launch personalized implants over the years.

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The partial knee replacement systems segment accounted for around USD 769 million in 2020 driven by a high preference for partial knee replacement surgeries. The partial knee replacements require smaller incisions and facilitate rapid patient recovery in less time. The surgery offers high accuracy and is minimally invasive in nature wherein, only the damaged parts of the knee joint are removed. Complications associated with this surgery such as transfusion, blood loss and clots are lower, and the surgery exhibits a higher success rate.

The bicompartmental knee implants segment captured more than 14% of the total knee replacement market share in 2020 and is estimated to expand at 6.6% growth rate through 2027 led by the advantages such as better knee biomechanics, shorter stay at the hospital, quick rehabilitation, and reduced complication rates. According to the National Centers for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), bicompartmental knee implants are reliable in several cases and specifically in younger people. In patients with high functional expectations, bicompartmental knee implants are highly preferred as they promote excellent pain relief and better knee function that allows return to daily activities. As a result, due to numerous benefits, the demand for bicompartmental implants in the younger population will expedite the product adoption and the industry growth significantly.

The patellar segment in the total knee replacement market exceeded USD 890 million in 2020 and is projected to grow at 5.5% CAGR by 2027. The segment growth is credited to advancements in prostheses and surgical techniques. The patellar component is a dome-shaped piece intended to replace the damaged kneecap and comply with the resurfaced patella. The patellar component is highly used in knee replacement surgeries where the kneecap is diseased or damaged. Advancements in terms of design have promoted smoother movement and a lower wear rate of the implant. Additionally, the use of advanced materials has further enhanced the overall offerings of knee implants. The benefits include better lubrication and superior surface hardness.

The total knee replacement market for the medial pivot implants segment is poised to attain a CAGR of 9.2% and will reach USD 1.04 billion by 2027. The high segment value is attributed to the growing usage of advanced inserts that incorporate a congruent medial compartment to exhibit the better replication of medial pivoting physiological kinematics of the knee. The ball-and-socket approach used in medial pivot implants provides higher stability and lowered wear-and-tear rates, thereby increasing the life expectancy of the implant.

The cruciate retaining segment in the total knee replacement market was valued at USD 3.07 billion in 2020 and is predicted to witness a 6% growth rate till 2027 impelled by the advantages cruciate retaining design offers that include better stability and decreased shear stresses at the fixation interface. Moreover, this design preserves femoral rollback that improves extensor effectiveness by broadening the moment arm and improves the range of flexion. Numerous research studies of cruciate retaining total knee replacement procedures have demonstrated promising clinical outcomes and long-term survival. Hence, leading companies in the total knee replacement market emphasize on developing innovative implant designs with relative benefits including more bone preservation and less load between bone & cement.

The technology-assisted surgery type segment held more than 11% of the total knee replacement market share in 2020 propelled by the capacity to enable minimally invasive surgery and aid in complex tasks. For instance, by using robotic technology knee surgeons can perform surgeries with high accuracy and offer improved safety. Furthermore, computer-assisted surgery has been developed as tools that are intended to plan and execute surgery with better precision.

The hybrid segment in the total knee replacement market is expected to observe 6.8% growth rate by 2027. The hybrid fixation materials are used in total knee arthroplasty procedures with cemented tibial and cementless femoral components to offer enhanced results. The hybrid fixation material is specifically used to reduce the complications related to cemented and cementless procedures.

The total knee replacement market for the ceramic-on-ceramic segment accounted for more than USD 467 million in 2020. The substantial revenue share is attributed to the nature of these implants that is suitable for patients with an active lifestyle and offers much lower wear. The ceramic part is long-lasting and prevents debris that can be harmful to the body. These materials are widely preferred by physicians for pregnant women as it doesn't cause dangerous allergies. The implants developed using new generation advanced ceramic technology are up to 30 times hard and overcoming the concerns of breakage of the ceramic. The demand for long-lasting implants is increasing to prevent revision surgery.

The antioxidant polyethylene inserts segment in the total knee replacement market is anticipated to observe 11.9% CAGR through 2027. The antioxidant polyethylene inserts stabilize free radicals and prevent implants from oxidizing. These inserts are exposed to a level of irradiation to stimulate an adequate amount of cross-linking while offering significant wear characteristics with mechanical integrity. Antioxidant polyethylene inserts are bonded with free radicals to maintain mechanical integrity and oxidative stability. Hindered phenolic compounds are a widely used chemical class of antioxidants to provide enhanced performance characteristics. Additionally, players in the industry focus on developing antioxidant polyethylene inserts to improve patient tibio-femoral kinematics, thereby promoting the product demand during the forecast timeline.

The total knee replacement market for the ambulatory surgical centers segment will reach around USD 1.97 billion by 2027. The benefits of ambulatory surgical centers including lesser costs, rising patient comfort, and prevention of risks associated with hospitalization will surge the preference for knee replacement surgeries being performed at ambulatory surgical centers. Furthermore, these facilities have improved the surgery experience by providing quality care, customer service, and offering same-day surgical care. These centers provide specialized care and function on a comparatively smaller scale that enables them to offer their services at a much lower rate. Thus, these facilities are significantly preferred in a wide range of surgeries.

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Brazil dominated the Latin America total knee replacement market and was valued at over USD 67 million in 2020 and is anticipated to progress at a significant growth rate of 8% by 2027 on account of the growing geriatric population and availability of affordable treatment options. As per the recently published article, the prevalence of knee osteoarthritis in obese people was about 63% across the country.

Some of the major companies operating in the total knee replacement market are Amplitude Ortho (Amplitude Surgical), B Braun Melsungen AG, ConforMIS Inc., Corin Group, Johnson & Johnson (Depuy Synthes), DJO Global, Exactech Inc., Mathys Ltd Bettlach, Medacta International, Medtronic, MicroPort Scientific Corporation, Smith & Nephew PLC, Stryker, Waldemar LINK, and Zimmer Biomet among others. The firms are engaged in an innovative product launch to expand their product portfolio and extend their services to expand their customer base

Table of Contents (ToC) of the report:

Chapter 3 Total Knee Replacement Market Insights

3.1 Industry segmentation

3.2 Industry landscape, 2016 - 2027

3.3 Industry impact forces

3.3.1 Growth drivers

3.3.2 Industry pitfalls & challenges

3.4 Growth potential analysis

3.5 COVID-19 impact analysis

3.6 Knee surgery landscape

3.6.1 Measured resection technique

3.6.2 Gap balancing technique

3.6.3 Balanced sizer

3.6.4 Measured sizer

3.7 Regulatory landscape

3.8 Reimbursement scenario

3.9 Porter's analysis

3.10 Competitive landscape, 2020

3.10.1 Competitive matrix analysis, 2020

3.10.2 Company market share analysis, 2020

3.11 PESTEL analysis

Browse Complete Table of Contents (ToC) @

https://www.gminsights.com/toc/detail/total-knee-replacement-market

About Global Market Insights Inc.

Global Market Insights Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider, offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy, and biotechnology.

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Email: [email protected]

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total-knee-replacement-market.png

Total Knee Replacement Market Growth Predicted at 6% Through 2027: GMI

Major total knee replacement market players include Amplitude Ortho (Amplitude Surgical), B Braun Melsungen AG, ConforMIS Inc., Corin Group, Johnson & Johnson (Depuy Synthes), DJO Global, Exactech Inc., Mathys Ltd Bettlach, Medacta International,

SOURCE Global Market Insights Inc.
ALEXANDRIA, Va., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- United Way and Kimberly-Clark's Cottonelle Brand have been named the 2021 SILVER Halo Award winners in the Best COVID-19 Initiative Category by Engage for Good, which honors corporate social initiatives and cause marketing.

For anyone already struggling to get by, the COVID-19 pandemic was a true crisis. As communities everywhere grappled with how to respond to the pandemic, United Ways around the world worked quickly to help connect individuals and families in need to food and essentials, shelter, emergency utility assistance, healthcare services and more. As a close partner of United Way, Cottonelle joined this effort to support families in need, encourage kindness and sharing, foster hope and increase the impact we could make when we all came together, through two innovative social impact campaigns.

At the onset of the pandemic, Americans faced the prospect of widespread lockdowns and toilet paper became a highly sought-after commodity. To make sure more Americans had what they needed, Cottonelle launched the #ShareASquare campaign which asked people to buy only what they needed, and #ShareASquare with those in need. For each person who participated in the campaign on social media using #ShareASquare, Cottonelle donated $1 per share to United Way to help provide communities with COVID relief, on top of a $1M donation from the brand.

At the end of 2020, Cottonelle's #RefreshinglyCleanSlate campaign gave everyone the opportunity to "flush away" what they wanted to leave behind in 2020 and start 2021 with a chance to win $21,000. The ask? Tell us what you're looking forward to in the new year, while sharing one thing from 2020 you want to leave behind, for a chance to win. For every valid sweepstakes submission, Cottonelle donated $20.21 to United Way, for a $1 million total donation. Plus, 20 lucky sweepstakes entrants were randomly selected to win $21,000 each to start their year fresh.

Both campaigns included significant monetary contributions to United Way and over one million rolls of toilet paper donated from end of March to June for individuals and families in need. The rolls were delivered to local United Ways for distribution in 15 markets to food banks, childcare centers and more, based on a balance of markets in or near COVID-19 hot spots and an equitable regional distribution across the country.

"United Way is grateful for the support of Cottonelle and Kimberly-Clark that enabled us to meet the needs of the communities that we serve during the COVID crisis," said Suzanne McCormick, U.S. President of United Way Worldwide. "Thank you to all the Cottonelle consumers and Kimberly-Clark employees whose kindness set an example for others and thank you to Engage for Good for recognizing this unique social good and cause-related marketing campaign."

"Winning the Halo Award for the Best COVID-19 Initiative is one of our biggest accomplishments and something we're most proud of," said Ada Zavala, Senior Brand Manager for Cottonelle. "2020 was tough in so many ways, and Cottonelle is proud to give back to our communities when they need it most."

"Examples of positive corporate social impact were among the meaningful silver linings to be found during the COVID-19 pandemic," said Engage for Good President David Hessekiel. "It's a pleasure to shine a light on outstanding efforts like this that helped society weather such a difficult time."

2021 marks the 19th year that Engage for Good has rewarded businesses and nonprofits with Halo Awards for doing well by doing good. A total of 20 category awards were given out to programs judged the best social impact campaigns of 2020 at the Engage for Good Virtual Conference on May 25-27th, 2021.

"Many of this year's recipients demonstrated remarkable pivots  both in reaction to the public health crisis of our lifetime as well as a racial reckoning in this country," said Hessekiel. "All of this year's recipient provide inspiration and further proof that companies and causes can collaborate to build a better world and the bottom line."

A full list of all of this year's Halo Award winners (and a searchable database of past winners) can be found at http://www.engageforgood.com/halo-awards.

About Engage for Good

Engage for Good, producer of the Engage for Good conference and Halo Awards, helps business and nonprofit executives succeed together by providing practical information and inspiration, opportunities to build valuable relationships and recognition for outstanding work engaging employees and consumers around social good and cause-related marketing efforts.

A wealth of information on cause marketing, corporate social impact programs and Engage for Good's offerings can be found at http://www.engageforgood.com

About United Way

United Way fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every community. With global reach and local impact, we're making life better for 48 million people annually. United Way is the world's largest privately funded nonprofit, working in 95% of U.S. communities and 40 countries and territories. That's why we're the mission of choice for 2.5 million volunteers, 7.7 million donors and 45,000 corporate partners. In the wake of COVID-19, we're helping people stay in their homes, stock their pantries, and protect their lives and livelihoods. And we're working to build resilient, equitable communities. Learn more at UnitedWay.org. Follow us: @United Way and #LiveUnited.

SOURCE United Way Worldwide

Related Links

www.unitedway.org


"Employers looking for a highly skilled work force and high quality of life keep coming to North Carolina," said Governor Roy Cooper. "We pride ourselves on being the most military and veteran friendly state in the nation and I'm proud that USAA, which has provided for military families since 1922, has decided to expand its presence in Charlotte."

The new location was selected because of the availability of highly skilled individuals in the financial services sector.

"Opening an office in Charlotte is a win-win for USAA," said USAA President and CEO Wayne Peacock. "It gives us even greater access to some of the top banking and technology professionals in a community that has a deep understanding and care for the military. USAA has been serving military families for nearly a century and we are excited to begin our second century with a growing presence in Charlotte."

USAA already has a small number of employees living in the Charlotte area. This new office location will eventually host approximately 750 employees who will work either onsite or in a hybrid model.

"North Carolina is proud to support companies founded by and for the military community," said North Carolina State Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders. "We look forward to working together with USAA to align our diverse and highly-skilled talent with good jobs in fintech."

USAA is leasing six floors of the 10-story, 153,000-square-foot building consisting of approximately 90,000 square feet of office space. Employees are expected to begin moving into the building by the end of 2021.

"USAA's choice to open a new office in Charlotte is another example of strategic investments paying off, and more proof that top-tier companies and talent are seeking out our city," said Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles. "We have developed an innovative marketplace, with an ability to attract educated, young professionals to a diverse workforce that we are confident will continue to grow and flourish for companies like USAA and for the people of Charlotte."

USAA is actively hiring qualified individuals in the Charlotte area who are passionate about serving the military community and becoming a part of USAA's nearly 100-year-old legacy. Interested job seekers can search www.usaajobs.com for available roles.

About USAA

Founded in 1922 by a group of military officers, USAA is among the leading providers of insurance, banking and investment and retirement solutions to nearly 13 million members of the U.S. military, veterans who have honorably served and their families. Headquartered in San Antonio, USAA has offices in seven U.S. cities and three overseas locations and employs more than 35,000 people worldwide. Each year, the company contributes to national and local nonprofits in support of military families and communities where employees live and work. For more information about USAA, follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@USAA), or visit usaa.com.

Contact: USAA Media Relations

[email protected]

(210) 498-0940

SOURCE USAA

Related Links

http://www.usaa.com


PLEASANTON, Calif., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Veeva Systems Inc. (NYSE: VEEV), a leading provider of industry cloud solutions for the global life sciences industry, today announced results for its first quarter ended April 30, 2021.

"The team's focus on customer success and product excellence continues to drive Veeva's outstanding results," said CEO Peter Gassner. "Our innovations in data, software, and services are helping the industry move to a new digital-first model."

Fiscal 2022 First Quarter Results:

Revenues : Total revenues for the first quarter were $433.6 million , up from $337.1 million one year ago, an increase of 29% year over year. Subscription services revenues for the first quarter were $341.1 million , up from $270.2 million one year ago, an increase of 26% year over year.

: Total revenues for the first quarter were , up from one year ago, an increase of 29% year over year. Subscription services revenues for the first quarter were , up from one year ago, an increase of 26% year over year. Operating Income and Non-GAAP Operating Income (1) : First quarter operating income was $128.4 million , compared to $87.6 million one year ago, an increase of 47% year over year. Non-GAAP operating income for the first quarter was $181.4 million , compared to $129.7 million one year ago, an increase of 40% year over year.

: First quarter operating income was , compared to one year ago, an increase of 47% year over year. Non-GAAP operating income for the first quarter was , compared to one year ago, an increase of 40% year over year. Net Income and Non-GAAP Net Income (1) : First quarter net income was $115.6 million , compared to $86.6 million one year ago, an increase of 33% year over year. Non-GAAP net income for the first quarter was $146.9 million , compared to $105.2 million one year ago, an increase of 40% year over year.

: First quarter net income was , compared to one year ago, an increase of 33% year over year. Non-GAAP net income for the first quarter was , compared to one year ago, an increase of 40% year over year. Net Income per Share and Non-GAAP Net Income per Share(1): For the first quarter, fully diluted net income per share was $0.71 , compared to $0.54 one year ago, while non-GAAP fully diluted net income per share was $0.91 , compared to $0.66 one year ago.

"It was an outstanding start to the year," said CFO Brent Bowman. "We are building a durable position across both R&D and commercial, which reflects our role as a strategic technology provider to the industry."

Recent Highlights:

New and Exist ing Customer Relationships Drive Strong Growth  The company added a record 59 new customers in the first quarter, bringing total customer count to more than 1,000. Q1 was an outstanding bookings quarter fueled by strong results in Veeva Vault and Veeva Commercial Cloud. Demand remains robust as customers increasingly partner with Veeva to modernize their technology infrastructure and move to a digital first model.

 The company added a record 59 new customers in the first quarter, bringing total customer count to more than 1,000. Q1 was an outstanding bookings quarter fueled by strong results in Veeva Vault and Veeva Commercial Cloud. Demand remains robust as customers increasingly partner with Veeva to modernize their technology infrastructure and move to a digital first model. Record New Customer Additions for Vault Quality  Vault Quality had an outstanding quarter which included record bookings for Veeva Vault Quality Suite and significant wins in Veeva Vault QualityDocs, Vault QMS, and Vault Training. Among these was Veeva's sixth Vault QMS win with a top 20 pharmaceutical company, which is their first Veeva Development Cloud application.

 Vault Quality had an outstanding quarter which included record bookings for Veeva Vault Quality Suite and significant wins in Veeva Vault QualityDocs, Vault QMS, and Vault Training. Among these was Veeva's sixth Vault QMS win with a top 20 pharmaceutical company, which is their first Veeva Development Cloud application. Enabling the Industry with Better Ways of Working  Veeva is advancing how customers operate with the industry's first Quality Reference Model. Going beyond software, Veeva is providing customers a technology enabled best practice model as the standard for the industry based upon extensive experience with more than 300 Vault QualityDocs deployments.

Financial Outlook:

Veeva is providing guidance for its fiscal second quarter ending July 31, 2021 as follows:

Total revenues between $450 and $452 million .

and . Non-GAAP operating income between $175 and $177 million (2) .

and . Non-GAAP fully diluted net income per share between $0.85 and $0.86 (2).

Veeva is providing guidance for its fiscal year ending January 31, 2022 as follows:

Total revenues between $1,815 and $1,825 million .

and . Non-GAAP operating income of about $710 million (2) .

. Non-GAAP fully diluted net income per share of approximately $3.49 (2).

Conference Call Information

Prepared remarks and an investor presentation providing additional information and analysis can be found on Veeva's investor relations website at ir.veeva.com . Veeva will host a Q&A conference call at 2:00 p.m. PT today, May 27, 2021, and a replay of the call will be available on Veeva's investor relations website.

What: Veeva's Fiscal 2022 First Quarter Results Conference Call When: Thursday, May 27, 2021 Time: 2:00 p.m. PT (5:00 p.m. ET) Online Registration: www.directeventreg.com

Conference ID 8145598 Webcast: ir.veeva.com

___________ (1) This press release uses non-GAAP financial metrics that are adjusted for the impact of various GAAP items. See the section titled "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" and the tables entitled "Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures" below for details.

(2) Veeva is not able, at this time, to provide GAAP targets for operating income and fully diluted net income per share for the second fiscal quarter ending July 31, 2021 or fiscal year ending January 31, 2022 because of the difficulty of estimating certain items excluded from non-GAAP operating income and non-GAAP fully diluted net income per share that cannot be reasonably predicted, such as charges related to stock-based compensation expense. The effect of these excluded items may be significant.

About Veeva Systems

Veeva is the global leader in cloud software for the life sciences industry. Committed to innovation, product excellence, and customer success, Veeva serves more than 1,000 customers, ranging from the world's largest pharmaceutical companies to emerging biotechs. As a Public Benefit Corporation, Veeva is committed to balancing the interests of all stakeholders, including customers, employees, shareholders and the industries it serves. For more information, visit veeva.com.

Veeva uses its ir.veeva.com website as a means of disclosing material non-public information, announcing upcoming investor conferences, and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Accordingly, you should monitor our investor relations website in addition to following our press releases, SEC filings, and public conference calls and webcasts.

Forward-looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements, including the quotations from management, the statements in "Financial Outlook," and other statements regarding Veeva's future performance, outlook, and guidance and the assumptions underlying those statements, market growth, the benefits from the use of Veeva's solutions, our strategies, and general business conditions. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based upon Veeva's historical performance and its current plans, estimates, and expectations and are not a representation that such plans, estimates, or expectations will be achieved. These forward-looking statements represent Veeva's expectations as of the date of this press announcement. Subsequent events may cause these expectations to change, and Veeva disclaims any obligation to update the forward-looking statements in the future. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially, including (i) the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic (including the impact to the life sciences industry, impact on general economic conditions, and government responses, restrictions, and actions related to the pandemic); (ii) breaches in our security measures or unauthorized access to our customers' data; (iii) competitive factors, including but not limited to pricing pressures, consolidation among our competitors, entry of new competitors, the launch of new products and marketing initiatives by our existing competitors, and difficulty securing rights to access, host or integrate with complementary third party products or data used by our customers; (iv) the rate of adoption of our newer solutions and the results of our efforts to sustain or expand the use and adoption of our more established applications, like Veeva CRM; (v) our expectation that the future growth rate of our revenues will decline; (vi) loss of one or more customers, particularly any of our large customers; (vii) fluctuation of our results, which may make period-to-period comparisons less meaningful; (viii) adverse changes in the life sciences industry, including as a result of customer mergers; (ix) system unavailability, system performance problems, or loss of data due to disruptions or other problems with our computing infrastructure; (x) our ability to attract and retain highly skilled employees and manage our growth effectively; (xi) failure to sustain the level of profitability we have achieved in the past as our costs increase; (xii) adverse changes in economic, regulatory, international trade relations, or market conditions, including with respect to natural disasters or actual or threatened public health emergencies; (xiii) a decline in new subscriptions that may not be immediately reflected in our operating results due to the ratable recognition of our subscription revenue; (xiv) pending, threatened, or future legal proceedings and related expenses; and (xv) our recent conversion to a Delaware public benefit corporation, including the expected impact, benefits, and risks of our conversion.

Additional risks and uncertainties that could affect Veeva's financial results are included under the captions "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in the company's filing on Form 10-K for the period ended January 31, 2021. This is available on the company's website at veeva.com under the Investors section and on the SEC's website at sec.gov . Further information on potential risks that could affect actual results will be included in other filings Veeva makes with the SEC from time to time.

Investor Relations Contact:

Ato Garrett

Veeva Systems Inc.

925-271-4204

[email protected]

Media Contact:

Deivis Mercado

Veeva Systems Inc.

925-226-8821

[email protected]

VEEVA SYSTEMS INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (In thousands) (Unaudited)



April 30,

2021

January 31,

2021 Assets





Current assets:





Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,184,980



$ 730,504

Short-term investments 965,453



933,122

Accounts receivable, net 262,327



564,387

Unbilled accounts receivable 51,367



47,206

Prepaid expenses and other current assets 30,939



35,607

Total current assets 2,495,066



2,310,826

Property and equipment, net 52,248



53,650

Deferred costs, net 40,007



42,072

Lease right-of-use assets 53,776



56,917

Goodwill 436,029



436,029

Intangible assets, net 110,166



114,595

Deferred income taxes 13,845



14,100

Other long-term assets 21,012



17,878

Total assets $ 3,222,149



$ 3,046,067









Liabilities and stockholders' equity





Current liabilities:





Accounts payable $ 18,858



$ 23,253

Accrued compensation and benefits 31,720



30,410

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 32,716



30,982

Income tax payable 6,299



2,590

Deferred revenue 608,673



616,992

Lease liabilities 11,280



11,725

Total current liabilities 709,546



715,952

Deferred income taxes 6,488



1,835

Lease liabilities, noncurrent 48,672



51,393

Other long-term liabilities 12,459



10,567

Total liabilities 777,165



779,747

Stockholders' equity:





Class A common stock 2



2

Class B common stock 





Additional paid-in capital 1,032,063



965,670

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (2,304)



992

Retained earnings 1,415,223



1,299,656

Total stockholders' equity 2,444,984



2,266,320

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 3,222,149



$ 3,046,067



VEEVA SYSTEMS INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (In thousands, except per share data) (Unaudited)



Three months ended

April 30,

2021

2020 Revenues:





Subscription services(3) $ 341,119



$ 270,235

Professional services and other(4) 92,454



66,871

Total revenues 433,573



337,106

Cost of revenues(5):





Cost of subscription services 51,217



43,212

Cost of professional services and other 64,919



51,668

Total cost of revenues 116,136



94,880

Gross profit 317,437



242,226

Operating expenses(5):





Research and development 83,226



62,237

Sales and marketing 64,610



55,755

General and administrative 41,155



36,669

Total operating expenses 188,991



154,661

Operating income 128,446



87,565

Other income, net 4,564



3,414

Income before income taxes 133,010



90,979

Provision for income taxes 17,443



4,409

Net income $ 115,567



$ 86,570









Net income per share:





Basic $ 0.76



$ 0.58

Diluted $ 0.71



$ 0.54









Weighted-average shares used to compute net income per share:





Basic 152,444



149,541

Diluted 162,213



159,474

Other comprehensive income:





Net change in unrealized gain (loss) on available-for- sale investments $ (1,086)



$ 1,297

Net change in cumulative foreign currency translation gain (loss) (2,213)



389

Comprehensive income $ 112,268



$ 88,256









(3) Includes subscription services revenues from the following product areas:





Veeva Commercial Cloud $ 168,458



$ 142,577

Veeva Vault 172,661



127,658

Total subscription services $ 341,119



$ 270,235









(4) Includes professional services and other revenues from the following product areas:





Veeva Commercial Cloud $ 36,026



$ 27,376

Veeva Vault 56,428



39,495

Total professional services and other $ 92,454



$ 66,871









(5) Includes stock-based compensation as follows:





Cost of revenues:





Cost of subscription services $ 906



$ 1,019

Cost of professional services and other 7,422



5,074

Research and development 16,837



11,401

Sales and marketing 11,555



8,192

General and administrative 11,769



11,221

Total stock-based compensation $ 48,489



$ 36,907



VEEVA SYSTEMS INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (In thousands) (Unaudited)



Three months ended

April 30,

2021

2020 Cash flows from operating activities





Net income $ 115,567



$ 86,570

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:





Depreciation and amortization 6,628



7,878

Reduction of operating lease right-of-use assets 2,827



2,997

Accretion (amortization) of discount on short-term investments 1,542



(11)

Stock-based compensation 48,489



36,907

Amortization of deferred costs 6,355



4,751

Deferred income taxes 5,242



(1,134)

Gain on foreign currency from mark-to-market derivative 431



93

Bad debt (expense) recovery 159



(393)

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:





Accounts receivable 301,732



154,160

Unbilled accounts receivable (4,161)



(4,452)

Deferred costs (4,290)



(3,342)

Income taxes payable 3,709



(1,850)

Other current and long-term assets 2,737



551

Accounts payable (6,794)



(4,430)

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 6,967



2,691

Deferred revenue (8,176)



1,477

Operating lease liabilities (2,748)



(2,811)

Other long-term liabilities 2,169



2,520

Net cash provided by operating activities 478,385



282,172

Cash flows from investing activities





Purchases of short-term investments (256,938)



(188,818)

Maturities and sales of short-term investments 221,645



140,342

Long-term assets (2,656)



267

Net cash used in investing activities (37,949)



(48,209)

Cash flows from financing activities





Reduction of lease liabilities - finance leases (286)



(248)

Proceeds from exercise of common stock options 17,091



9,781

Net cash provided by financing activities 16,805



9,533

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash (2,765)



548

Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash 454,476



244,044

Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at beginning of period 731,712



479,797

Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period $ 1,186,188



$ 723,841









Supplemental disclosures of other cash flow information:





Excess tax benefits from employee stock plans $ 17,451



$ 19,615



Non-GAAP Financial Measures

In Veeva's public disclosures, Veeva has provided non-GAAP measures, which it defines as financial information that has not been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or GAAP. In addition to its GAAP measures, Veeva uses these non-GAAP financial measures internally for budgeting and resource allocation purposes and in analyzing its financial results. For the reasons set forth below, Veeva believes that excluding the following items provides information that is helpful in understanding its operating results, evaluating its future prospects, comparing its financial results across accounting periods, and comparing its financial results to its peers, many of which provide similar non-GAAP financial measures.

Stock-based compensation expenses. Veeva excludes stock-based compensation expenses primarily because they are non-cash expenses that Veeva excludes from its internal management reporting processes. Veeva's management also finds it useful to exclude these expenses when they assess the appropriate level of various operating expenses and resource allocations when budgeting, planning and forecasting future periods. Moreover, because of varying available valuation methodologies, subjective assumptions and the variety of award types that companies can use under FASB ASC Topic 718, Veeva believes excluding stock-based compensation expenses allows investors to make meaningful comparisons between our recurring core business operating results and those of other companies.

Amortization of purchased intangibles. Veeva incurs amortization expense for purchased intangible assets in connection with acquisitions of certain businesses and technologies. Amortization of intangible assets is a non-cash expense and is inconsistent in amount and frequency because it is significantly affected by the timing, size of acquisitions and the inherent subjective nature of purchase price allocations. Because these costs have already been incurred and cannot be recovered, and are non-cash expenses, Veeva excludes these expenses for its internal management reporting processes. Veeva's management also finds it useful to exclude these charges when assessing the appropriate level of various operating expenses and resource allocations when budgeting, planning and forecasting future periods. Investors should note that the use of intangible assets contributed to Veeva's revenues earned during the periods presented and will contribute to Veeva's future period revenues as well.

Income tax effects on the difference between GAAP and non-GAAP costs and expenses. The income tax effects that are excluded relate to the imputed tax impact on the difference between GAAP and non-GAAP costs and expenses due to stock-based compensation and purchased intangibles for GAAP and non-GAAP measures.

There are limitations to using non-GAAP financial measures because non-GAAP financial measures are not prepared in accordance with GAAP and may be different from non-GAAP financial measures provided by other companies. The non-GAAP financial measures are limited in value because they exclude certain items that may have a material impact upon our reported financial results. In addition, they are subject to inherent limitations as they reflect the exercise of judgments by Veeva's management about which items are adjusted to calculate its non-GAAP financial measures. Veeva compensates for these limitations by analyzing current and future results on a GAAP basis as well as a non-GAAP basis and also by providing GAAP measures in its public disclosures.

Non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered in isolation from, or as a substitute for, financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP. Veeva encourages its investors and others to review its financial information in its entirety, not to rely on any single financial measure to evaluate its business, and to view its non-GAAP financial measures in conjunction with the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures. A reconciliation of GAAP to the non-GAAP financial measures has been provided in the tables below.

The following tables reconcile the specific items excluded from GAAP metrics in the calculation of non-GAAP metrics for the periods shown below:

VEEVA SYSTEMS INC. RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (Dollars in thousands) (Unaudited)



Three months ended April 30,

2021

2020 Cost of subscription services revenues on a GAAP basis $ 51,217



$ 43,212

Stock-based compensation expense (906)



(1,019)

Amortization of purchased intangibles (895)



(1,594)

Cost of subscription services revenues on a non-GAAP basis $ 49,416



$ 40,599









Gross margin on subscription services revenues on a GAAP basis 85.0 %

84.0 % Stock-based compensation expense 0.3



0.4

Amortization of purchased intangibles 0.2



0.6

Gross margin on subscription services revenues on a non-GAAP basis 85.5 %

85.0 %







Cost of professional services and other revenues on a GAAP basis $ 64,919



$ 51,668

Stock-based compensation expense (7,422)



(5,074)

Amortization of purchased intangibles (134)



(135)

Cost of professional services and other revenues on a non-GAAP basis $ 57,363



$ 46,459









Gross margin on professional services and other revenues on a GAAP basis 29.8 %

22.7 % Stock-based compensation expense 8.0



7.6

Amortization of purchased intangibles 0.2



0.2

Gross margin on professional services and other revenues on a non-GAAP basis 38.0 %

30.5 %







Gross profit on a GAAP basis $ 317,437



$ 242,226

Stock-based compensation expense 8,328



6,093

Amortization of purchased intangibles 1,029



1,729

Gross profit on a non-GAAP basis $ 326,794



$ 250,048









Gross margin on total revenues on a GAAP basis 73.2 %

71.9 % Stock-based compensation expense 1.9



1.8

Amortization of purchased intangibles 0.3



0.5

Gross margin on total revenues on a non-GAAP basis 75.4 %

74.2 %







Research and development expense on a GAAP basis $ 83,226



$ 62,237

Stock-based compensation expense (16,837)



(11,401)

Amortization of purchased intangibles (28)



(28)

Research and development expense on a non-GAAP basis $ 66,361



$ 50,808









Sales and marketing expense on a GAAP basis $ 64,610



$ 55,755

Stock-based compensation expense (11,555)



(8,192)

Amortization of purchased intangibles (3,317)



(3,402)

Sales and marketing expense on a non-GAAP basis $ 49,738



$ 44,161









General and administrative expense on a GAAP basis $ 41,155



$ 36,669

Stock-based compensation expense (11,769)



(11,221)

Amortization of purchased intangibles (55)



(56)

General and administrative expense on a non-GAAP basis $ 29,331



$ 25,392









Operating expense on a GAAP basis $ 188,991



$ 154,661

Stock-based compensation expense (40,161)



(30,814)

Amortization of purchased intangibles (3,400)



(3,486)

Operating expense on a non-GAAP basis $ 145,430



$ 120,361









Operating income on a GAAP basis $ 128,446



$ 87,565

Stock-based compensation expense 48,489



36,907

Amortization of purchased intangibles 4,429



5,215

Operating income on a non-GAAP basis $ 181,364



$ 129,687









Operating margin on a GAAP basis 29.6 %

26.0 % Stock-based compensation expense 11.2



11.0

Amortization of purchased intangibles 1.0



1.5

Operating margin on a non-GAAP basis 41.8 %

38.5 %







Net income on a GAAP basis $ 115,567



$ 86,570

Stock-based compensation expense 48,489



36,907

Amortization of purchased intangibles 4,429



5,215

Income tax effect on non-GAAP adjustments (6) (21,602)



(23,542)

Net income on a non-GAAP basis $ 146,883



$ 105,150









Diluted net income per share on a GAAP basis $ 0.71



$ 0.54

Stock-based compensation expense 0.30



0.23

Amortization of purchased intangibles 0.03



0.04

Income tax effect on non-GAAP adjustments(6) (0.13)



(0.15)

Diluted net income per share on a non-GAAP basis $ 0.91



$ 0.66



________________________ (6) For the three months ended April 30, 2021 and 2020, management used an estimated annual effective non-GAAP tax rate of 21.0%.

SOURCE Veeva Systems

Related Links

http://www.veeva.com


SUITLAND, Md., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Teamsters at Washington Gas have voted by 97 percent to authorize a strike. The contract covering 600 union employees expires on May 31.

With 80 percent of members casting ballots yesterday and today, the final count was 462-13 in favor of authorizing a strike.

Washington Gas is owned by AltaGas, a Canadian corporation. AltaGas has increased rates on customers in Washington D.C. and Maryland. But in contract talks, AltaGas negotiators have demanded health care cuts and refused to commit to provide flame retardant clothing, even after employees were badly burned in a recent explosion.

The company faces unfair labor practice charges for its conduct of negotiations.

"The overwhelming vote sends AltaGas the clearest possible message of how insulted and disrespected members are by the company's demand that workers take massive health care cuts after working through a pandemic," said Washington Gas worker and Teamsters Local 96 President Wilder Reed.

Teamsters Local 96 and the company will return to the negotiating table today.

"Local 96 members have spoken loud and clear. We will see if anyone at AltaGas is listening and what they have to say," Reed said.

Contact:

Wilder Reed, Local 96 President,

(240) 462-7324

SOURCE Teamsters Local 96
CRH Medical Corporation ("CRH"), a wholly owned subsidiary of WELL Health, completes acquisitions of 51-per-cent stakes in both Northern Indiana Anesthesia Associates, LLC (" NIAA ") in Indiana , and an add-on practice for FDHS Anesthesia, LLC (" FDHS ") in Florida .

") in , and an add-on practice for FDHS Anesthesia, LLC (" ") in . NIAA's current estimated annualized revenue run rate is approximately US$2.1 million , while FDHS's current estimated annualized revenue run rate is approximately US$1.2 million . Both companies' combined revenue run rate of approximately US$3.3M has operating EBITDA margins of approximately 45%.

, while FDHS's current estimated annualized revenue run rate is approximately . Both companies' combined revenue run rate of approximately has operating EBITDA margins of approximately 45%. These two accretive acquisitions mark CRH Medical's 35th and 36th transactions respectively and increase CRH's footprint to a total 75 ambulatory surgical centers across the United States .

. These acquisitions add 16 practitioners to CRH's team which had already exceeded 800 healthcare practitioners who are predominantly credentialed anesthesia providers.

VANCOUVER, BC, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - WELL Health Technologies Corp. (TSX: WELL) ("WELL" or the "Company"), a company focused on consolidating and modernizing clinical and digital assets within the healthcare sector, is pleased to announce its wholly owned subsidiary, CRH Medical Corporation ("CRH"), has completed two accretive transactions whereby the company has acquired a 51% stake in Northern Indiana Anesthesia Associates, LLC ("NIAA") and an add-on practice in Bradenton, Florida which will be part of CRH affiliate, FDHS Anesthesia, LLC ("FDHS").

"We are very excited to welcome both these teams to the CRH and WELL families as we continue to provide exceptional anesthesia services to patients in the states of Indiana and Florida," commented Dr. Tushar Ramani, CEO of CRH. "This marks our fifth and sixth transactions of 2021 and we are excited to continue growing and strengthening our anesthesia footprint."

NIAA provides anesthesia services to an ambulatory surgical center in South Bend, Indiana and represents CRH's 35th transaction. The acquisition of NIAA is expected to be immediately accretive to CRH's cashflows, with an estimated current annual revenue run-rate of approximately US$2.1 million with operating EBITDA margins of approximately 45%.

This Bradenton, Florida add-on to FDHS provides anesthesia services to an ambulatory surgical center and represents CRH's 36th transaction. The acquisition is also immediately accretive to CRH's cashflows and represents an estimated current annual revenue run-rate of approximately US$1.2 million with operating EBITDA margins of approximately 45%.

"We are very pleased to be executing on our acquisition opportunities and continuing to solidify our position as a leading anesthesia service provider in the US," said Jay Kreger, President of CRH Anesthesia. "This is our second and third acquisitions respectively since joining WELL and we look to forward to continuing to personify WELL's highly accretive and disciplined growth and capital allocation strategy."

Footnotes:

1. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization ("EBITDA") and EBITDA Margin are each Non-GAAP measures. EBITDA should not be construed as alternatives to net income/loss determined in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"). EBITDA does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. The Company believes that EBITDA is a meaningful financial metric as it measures cash generated from operations which the Company can use to fund working capital requirements, service future interest and principal debt repayments and fund future growth initiatives. For a reconciliation of EBITDA to Net income, please refer to the Company's most recent Management Discussion and Analysis on Sedar.com. EBITDA Margin is EBITDA as a percentage of total revenue.

WELL HEALTH TECHNOLOGIES CORP.

Per: "Hamed Shahbazi"

Hamed Shahbazi

Chief Executive Officer, Chairman and Director

About WELL Health Technologies Corp.

WELL is an omni-channel digital health company whose overarching objective is to empower doctors to provide the best and most advanced care possible while leveraging the latest trends in digital health. As such, WELL owns and operates primary and executive healthcare clinics in both Canada and the US, operates a multi-national portfolio of telehealth services which includes one of the largest telehealth service providers in Canada and operates a global digital Electronic Medical Records (EMR) business serving thousands of healthcare clinics and health systems of all sizes. WELL is also a provider of digital health, billing and cybersecurity related technology solutions. WELL's wholly owned subsidiary CRH Medical is a provider of products and services that support Gastroenterology physicians and ambulatory surgical clinics in the US. WELL is an acquisitive company that follows a disciplined and accretive capital allocation strategy. WELL is publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "WELL". To access the Company's telehealth service, visit: tiahealth.com, and for corporate information, visit: www.well.company.

About CRH Medical Corporation

CRH is a North American company focused on providing gastroenterologists throughout the United States with innovative services and products for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. In 2014, CRH became a full service gastroenterology anesthesia company that provides anesthesia services for patients undergoing endoscopic procedures in ambulatory surgical centers. To date, CRH has completed 36 anesthesia acquisitions, and now serves 75 ambulatory surgical centers in 16 states. In addition, CRH owns the "CRH O'Regan System", a single-use, disposable, hemorrhoid banding technology that is safe and highly effective in treating all grades of hemorrhoids. CRH distributes the O'Regan System, treatment protocols, operational and marketing expertise as a complete, turnkey package directly to gastroenterology practices, creating meaningful relationships with the gastroenterologists it serves. CRH's O'Regan System is currently used in all 48 lower US states.

Notice Regarding Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements in this news release are forward-looking statements and are prospective in nature including the statements regarding: the anticpated benefits of the acquisitons and the future strategy of WELL and CRH. Forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts, but rather on current expectations and projections about future events, and are therefore subject to risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "may", "should", "could", "would", "intend", "estimate", "plan", "anticipate", "expect", "believe", "working on" or "continue", or the negative thereof or similar variations. There are numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and WELL's plans and objectives to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information, including: risks outlined in WELL's publicly filed documents available on SEDAR; business disruption risks relating to COVID-19; regulatory risks, including those related to healthcare, privacy and data security; and integration risks relating to the acquired business on a post-closing basis, including any failure to realize expected benefits of the acquisitions. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. These and all subsequent written and oral forward-looking information are based on estimates and opinions of management on the dates they are made and are expressly qualified in their entirety by this notice. Except as required by law, WELL does not intend to update these forward-looking statements.

SOURCE WELL Health Technologies Corp.

Related Links

well.company


BENTON HARBOR, Mich., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) announced today it is investing $15 million into its factory in Tulsa, Oklahoma as part of the company's ongoing efforts to further strengthen its U.S. manufacturing capabilities and bring even more innovation, top ranking consumer products and high-quality jobs to the region. In conjunction with its investment, Whirlpool Corporation will receive an additional $1 million from the state of Oklahoma through its Business Expansion Investment Program (BEIP). The plant produces freestanding and slide-in ranges under the Whirlpool, Amana, Maytag, KitchenAid and JennAir brands.

Manufacturing line in Whirlpool Corporations Tulsa, OK factory

Through funding from both parties, Whirlpool Corporation expects to create approximately 150 new jobs, building on the company's Tulsa expansion project announced in 2018. With the additional investment, Whirlpool Corporation is committed to increase its factory headcount to a total of over 2000 employees in Tulsa. In March of 2020, Whirlpool Corporation opened an 800,000 square foot Factory Distribution Center which doubled the size of its footprint in Tulsa.

"Whirlpool Corporation is committed to U.S. manufacturing, and our investment in our Tulsa factory highlights our dedication not only to the Tulsa community but to our current and future colleagues in the region," said Don Metzelaar, vice president of Integrated Supply Chain and Quality for Whirlpool Corporation. "We greatly appreciate the support and leadership of everyone who helped make this happen, including the partnership of the state of Oklahoma and local officials, and we look forward to continuing to work together in our shared efforts to accelerate job creation in the Tulsa region."

Whirlpool Corporation will utilize the majority of its $15 million allocation to invest in machinery and equipment that will deliver increased production capabilities, including capacity, with remaining funds to be used for key building and infrastructure improvements including health and safety protocols to accommodate the increase in workers. The $1 million offered by the state of Oklahoma, which is tied to Whirlpool Corporation's investment and commitment to delivering an increase in employment opportunities, will be allocated toward capital investment and further job creation.

"Tulsa's Whirlpool facility is the perfect example of how a public and private partnership benefits a community," said Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt. "This new and impactful investment will bring more jobs to our state, show that companies thrive in Oklahoma, and takes our state one step closer to being Top Ten for business."

The Whirlpool Corporation Tulsa plant is a part of the company's investment in America, with 21,000 U.S. based employees, including 15,000 manufacturing workers across our nine plants.

About Whirlpool Corporation

Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) is the world's leading kitchen and laundry appliance company, with approximately $19 billion in annual sales, 78,000 employees and 57 manufacturing and technology research centers in 2020. The company markets Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, Consul, Brastemp, Amana, Bauknecht, JennAir, Indesit and other major brand names in nearly every country throughout the world. Additional information about the company can be found at WhirlpoolCorp.com.

SOURCE Whirlpool Corporation

Related Links

http://www.whirlpoolcorp.com


COLUMBUS, Ohio, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In celebration of its 100th birthday, White Castle held a virtual Birthday Bash last night for Craver fans everywhere. The one-of-a-kind event, which was recorded in front of a small audience at White Castle's home office and streamed live on White Castle's social media platforms, featured something for everyone. The festivities included celebrity well wishes, a special musical performance, a mixology lesson, the induction of a unique Craver into the Cravers Hall of Fame, and stories and comments from members of the Ingram Family, who have owned and operated White Castle since Billy Ingram founded the business in 1921.

"Turning 100 is a huge milestone, and we definitely wanted to observe the birthday with a festive event fitting of the occasion," said Jamie Richardson, a vice president at White Castle. "The virtual Birthday Bash was a blast and allowed us to celebrate with thousands of Cravers from across the country."

In celebration of its 100th birthday, White Castle held a virtual Birthday Bash last night for Craver fans everywhere. Tweet this

Author, entertainer and loyal White Castle friend Jon Petz kicked off the fun-filled evening with welcoming remarks and a magic trick before turning the show over to Mr. Gandy, the famous New York City bartender and long-time White Castle fan. He showed the guests how to make a special Birthday Bash mocktail, Sweet 'Sitrus' Slush, using vanilla ice cream and Fanta Craver Party Punch, a specialty mix available only from White Castle's Coca-Cola Freestyle machines.

White Castle President and CEO Lisa Ingram and her dad Bill, who served as president of the business from 1978 to 2015, both gave remarks, talking about the great connection that family owned businesses have with their customers and teams.

"Today at White Castle there are 10,000 team members, each of whom is holding up the values our great-grandfather started 100 years ago," said Ingram, a fourth-generation family member. "This is an exciting time for all of us at White Castle. Sure it's great turning 100 years, but we are keeping it fresh for the next 100, too."

Other highlights from the night include:

Celebrity birthday greetings

White Castle felt the birthday love from an assortment of celebrities who appeared via video to offer their well wishes. Actor Kal Penn, who played Kumar in the cult classic "Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle" movie, sent birthday wishes, as did fashion designer Telfar Clemens, who has designed several iterations of White Castle's employee uniform. Late night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel, rock star Alice Cooper, Styx guitarist Tommy Shaw, actor/comedian Spice Adams and TV host Adam Richman all provided greetings, as well.

Craver Hall of Fame induction

White Castle will be inducting 12 members into its prestigious Cravers Hall of Fame later this summer. But company officials took advantage of the celebration to induct one very special Craver. Triumph the Insult Comic Dog, the hilariously offensive, cigar-smoking canine puppet, was inducted into the Cravers Hall of Fame, becoming the first and only puppet to receive the honor. Triumph, a long-time White Castle fan, was thrilled with the recognition, saying it was truly an honor.

Coca Cola commemorative bottles

White Castle and Coca-Cola have have been partners since 1921 when the soda was featured on the very first menu. In recognition of the long-standing partnership, Coca-Cola is releasing a limited edition, 8-ounce glass bottle that celebrates White Castle's centennial milestone. The celebratory bottle will be sold in six-pack carriers and available in most major retailers across Coca-Cola's Great Lakes distributing area (IL, IN, MI, MN, TN, WI).

Musical performance

Jim Babjak, co-founder and lead guitarist for The Smithereens, shared some White Castle memorabilia he owns and performed a solo, unplugged version of "White Castle Blues" from his basement. Babjak and his high school friend Bob Banta wrote the song in 1977 as an ode to White Castle and their late-night cravings for White Caste Sliders. The "hamburger song," as some called it, became a fan favorite at The Smithereens' concerts.

Saturday night and it's gettin' late

I'm gettin' hungry, I just can't wait

Not just any kind of burger will do

I'm being hit by those

White Castle blues

PUMA partnership announcement

White Castle announced a new partnership with PUMA by sharing behind-the-scenes footage of a collaboration with aftermarket sneaker artist "Mache." In the video, Mache showed how he created custom hand-painted White Castle Sneakers. The new PUMA x White Castle collection will launch on June 25 at the PUMA NYC flagship store, PUMA.com and across the Foot Locker Inc. family of stores.

About White Castle

White Castle, America's first fast-food hamburger chain, has been making hot and tasty Sliders as a family-owned business for 100 years. Based in Columbus, Ohio, White Castle started serving The Original Slider in 1921. Today White Castle owns and operates more than 360 restaurants dedicated to satisfying customers' cravings morning, noon and night and sells its famous fare in retail stores nationwide. The Original Slider, named in 2014 as Time magazine's "Most Influential Burger of All Time," is served alongside a menu of creatively crafted Sliders and other mouthwatering food options, including White Castle's Impossible Slider, named by Thrillist in 2019 as the "Best Plant-Based Fast Food Burger." White Castle's commitment to maintaining the highest quality products extends to the company owning and operating its own meat processing plants, bakeries and frozen-food processing plants. In 2021, 100 years after the first Slider was sold, Fast Company named the fast-food pioneer one of the "10 Most Innovative Dining Companies." White Castle is known for the legendary loyalty of its team members, more than 1 in 4 of whom have worked for White Castle for at least 10 years, and also for its faithful fans ("Cravers"), many of whom compete each year for entry into the Cravers Hall of Fame. The official White Castle app, available at iTunes App Store or Google Play, makes it easy for Cravers to access sweet deals and place pickup orders at any time. They can also have their orders delivered using one of White Castle's delivery partners. For more information on White Castle, visit whitecastle.com.

SOURCE White Castle

Related Links

http://www.whitecastle.com


SACRAMENTO, Calif., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- California food banks call for key investments in the California State Budget. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, food banks have served on the frontlines, responding to at least double the demand for emergency food. In April 2020 alone, food banks distributed food to more than 1.5 million households  about 4.54 million people  more than half (62%) the number of people they served in the entirety of 2019.

Right now, nearly 20% of all California households  and 27.3% of Latinx and 35.5% of Black households with children  are reporting food insecurity . This is 8 million Californians, and double pre-pandemic rates.

With the overall population experiencing food insecurity, the proportion of Californians reporting food insufficiency actually increased by 2.1% bringing the rate to 10.0%  approximately 2.5 million adults and 750,000 children. Food insufficiency or "very low food security" is nested within the traditional food insecurity rates and captures those who experience toxic stress from not knowing where their next meal will come from. As demonstrated by the Great Recession , it could take up to a decade for food insecurity to return to pre-pandemic levels.

For food banks to meet this ongoing demand, they request continued investments from the State. In 2020, CAFB's food bank network served more than 1 billion pounds of food  a 74% increase from 2019.

"Food banks could not have distributed more than a billion pounds of food without the support from the State. With record demand and hunger levels sustaining, we need ongoing support from the State and Budget investments in California's food banks. Now more than ever, and as fire season draws closer, we need the State to bring all resources to bear on this hunger crisis," said Andrew Cheyne, director of government affairs for the California Association of Food Banks. "Access to food is a fundamental human right."

Budget Requests:

$110 Million : Emergency Food (Sen. Laird, Asm. Wicks)

Food banks continue to serve record demand for emergency food. We must sustain the successful emergency food box program. Since the program began on March 21, 2020 food banks have received 3 million boxes and has proven to be an essential supply of food.



(Sen. Laird, Asm. Wicks) Food banks continue to serve record demand for emergency food. We must sustain the successful emergency food box program. Since the program began on food banks have received 3 million boxes and has proven to be an essential supply of food. $150 Million : Capacity Enhancements (Asm. Daly)

While serving record demand, food banks have faced an increase in operational costs, and require enhanced capacity to store and distribute more California -grown produce and protein.



(Asm. Daly) While serving record demand, food banks have faced an increase in operational costs, and require enhanced capacity to store and distribute more -grown produce and protein. $32 Million : Climate & Disaster Resilience (Sen. Newman , Asm. Villapudua)

We must ensure food banks are climate ready to prevent catastrophic food loss, while remaining able to serve when disaster strikes and Californians are in greatest need.



(Sen. , Asm. Villapudua) We must ensure food banks are climate ready to prevent catastrophic food loss, while remaining able to serve when disaster strikes and Californians are in greatest need. SB 240: Prevent the Healthy Food Donation Tax Credit from Expiring (Sen. Eggman, Asm. Levine)

Helps farmers and food banks while preventing food waste, by extending the 15% tax credit for donations to food banks until 2027.

Food Banks on the Frontlines:

"In Sacramento County alone, we traditionally have had higher food insecurity rates than state and national averages. This need has only been exacerbated by the pandemic," said Blake Young , President/CEO of Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services. "As the number of people we serve continues to grow, we recognize that support from the State is imperative as we work to eradicate hunger in our communities."



, President/CEO of "As the number of people we serve continues to grow, we recognize that support from the State is imperative as we work to eradicate hunger in our communities." "Food Banks are essential organizations responding to a manufactured emergency, and one that we believe will be eradicated: hunger. We must grow our capacity to respond to this emergency in the context of an ever-growing environmental crisis that reflects and exacerbates long-standing racial injustices. And we must invest resources in ways that move communities toward self-sufficiency within an equitable food system," said Deen Hasaan , Director of Policy & Partnerships, Alameda County Community Food Bank.



, Director of Policy & Partnerships, "COVID-19 has completely changed the hunger landscape in San Diego County ," said James Floros , President and CEO of the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank . "Our food bank pivoted to meet the exponential increase in need, and we will continue to serve San Diego County for many years to come, but State support is critical. In San Diego County alone we have $100 million in unmet need for facility upgrades, and the State food boxes help us provide healthy food in safe, contact-free distributions. We are grateful that the State has been with us during this urgent time of need, but we're not out of this yet. We need investments that will help us meet this ongoing hunger crisis and put us on the path toward a hunger-free future."



," said , President and CEO of the . "Our food bank pivoted to meet the exponential increase in need, and we will continue to serve for many years to come, but State support is critical. In alone we have in unmet need for facility upgrades, and the State food boxes help us provide healthy food in safe, contact-free distributions. We are grateful that the State has been with us during this urgent time of need, but we're not out of this yet. We need investments that will help us meet this ongoing hunger crisis and put us on the path toward a hunger-free future." "The San Francisco-Marin Food Bank is now serving nearly twice as many families as we did pre-pandemic  55,000 a week now compared to 30,000 before. The economic impacts of the pandemic will be with us for a long time and the need in our community is not going away, but we are at capacity. We need support from our elected leaders to expand our warehouse capacity and ensure we have enough food to keep up with the ongoing demand," said Marchon Tatmon , Government Affairs Manager, San Francisco-Marin Food Bank. "Food Banks are crisis response organizations, going into this year's fire season ensuring we have the resources to keep up with current demand and support anyone impacted by a natural disaster will be critical."

Contact: Lauren Lathan Reid, [email protected] or 415-200-9468

SOURCE California Association of Food Banks

Related Links

http://www.cafoodbanks.org/


DUBLIN, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Online Taxi Services Global Market Report 2021: COVID-19 Growth and Change to 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

This report provides strategists, marketers and senior management with the critical information they need to assess the global online taxi services market.



This report focuses on the online taxi services market which is experiencing strong growth. The report gives a guide to the online taxi services market which will be shaping and changing our lives over the next ten years and beyond, including the market's response to the challenge of the global pandemic.

The global online taxi services market is expected to grow from $23.42 billion in 2020 to $28.65 billion in 2021 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.3%. The growth is mainly due to the companies resuming their operations and adapting to the new normal while recovering from the COVID-19 impact, which had earlier led to restrictive containment measures involving social distancing, remote working, and the closure of commercial activities that resulted in operational challenges. The market is expected to reach $41.22 billion in 2025 at a CAGR of 9.5%.

Reasons to Purchase

Gain a truly global perspective with the most comprehensive report available on this market covering 12+ geographies.

Understand how the market is being affected by the coronavirus and how it is likely to emerge and grow as the impact of the virus abates.

Create regional and country strategies on the basis of local data and analysis.

Identify growth segments for investment.

Outperform competitors using forecast data and the drivers and trends shaping the market.

Understand customers based on the latest market research findings.

Benchmark performance against key competitors.

Utilize the relationships between key data sets for superior strategizing.

Suitable for supporting your internal and external presentations with reliable high quality data and analysis

Report will be updated with the latest data and delivered to you within 3-5 working days of order.

Where is the largest and fastest growing market for the online taxi services? How does the market relate to the overall economy, demography and other similar markets? What forces will shape the market going forward? The Online Taxi Service market global report answers all these questions and many more.



The report covers market characteristics, size and growth, segmentation, regional and country breakdowns, competitive landscape, market shares, trends and strategies for this market. It traces the market's historic and forecast market growth by geography. It places the market within the context of the wider online taxi services market, and compares it with other markets.

The market characteristics section of the report defines and explains the market.

The market size section gives the market size ($b) covering both the historic growth of the market, the influence of the COVID-19 virus and forecasting its growth.

Market segmentations break down market into sub markets.

The regional and country breakdowns section gives an analysis of the market in each geography and the size of the market by geography and compares their historic and forecast growth. It covers the growth trajectory of COVID-19 for all regions, key developed countries and major emerging markets.

Competitive landscape gives a description of the competitive nature of the market, market shares, and a description of the leading companies. Key financial deals which have shaped the market in recent years are identified.

The trends and strategies section highlights the likely future developments in the market and suggests approaches companies can take to exploit this.

The online taxi services market section of the report gives context. It compares the online taxi services market with other segments of the online taxi services market by size and growth, historic and forecast.

Major players in the online taxi services market are Ola (ANI Technologies Private Limited), Uber India Systems Private Limited, Lyft Inc., Didi Chuxing, GrabTaxi Holdings Pte Ltd, Carzonrent (India) Private Limited, Mega Cabs Private Limited, Meru Mobility Tech Private Limited, Savaari Car Rentals Private Limited, Go-Jek.



The online taxi services market consists of sales of taxi services and related goods by entities (organizations, sole traders, and partnerships) that provide passenger transportation by automobile or van through online reservations or on a booking basis. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing passenger transportation by taxi that are booked by using a mobile application. These companies use online platforms and mobile applications to offer their services to customers. Examples include Uber, Lyft, and Didi. Taxis booked online through an app are mentioned in the report as ride-hailing services. This does not include taxis stopped on roadsides. Only goods and services traded between entities or sold to end consumers are included.



Rising internet penetration drives the demand for the online taxi services market. The availability of high-speed internet connectivity and convenience associated with using online services is shifting consumer preferences towards online taxi services. According to the Internet World Stats, the number of internet users increased from 4,208 million to 4,833 million in June 2020. Furthermore, internet users in India are expected to grow from 636.73 million in 2019 to 974.86 million by the end of 2025. A growing number of internet users with smartphones now have taxi services at their fingertips that give the drivers' details and location and benefit the user and thereby fuel the demand for the online taxi services market.



The launch of self-driving taxi services is gaining popularity in the online taxi services market. Major players operating in the industry are continuously focused on introducing innovations and technologies to better serve the needs of consumers. For instance, in August 2020, AutoX, an autonomous driving startup announced the public launch of robo-taxi services in China. In December 2018, Waymo LLC, a US-based autonomous driving technology development company, launched self-driving taxi services for paying customers in Arizona, USA. Moreover, in October 2019, Ola, a ride-hailing firm introduced Ola Drive, self-driving car-sharing services in multiple locations in India including Bangalore, New Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad.



The online taxi services market covered in this report is segmented by service type into ride-hailing; ride sharing and by vehicle type into motorcycles; cars.



Stringent regulations imposed on online taxi services operations limit the growth of the online taxi services market. Many cases of assault and molestation have been registered against online taxi services as a result of which governments across the world have imposed strict regulations on the providers. In 2018, were 5,981 claims of sexual assaults were reported by Uber. These incidents call for a strong policy to secure customers. Governments have imposed strict background checks on Uber and Lyft drivers and mandatory fingerprint background check to avoid such incidents any further. Other regulations imposed by governments to comply with the service providers include India's Motor Vehicle (Amendment) Bill 2016 and Information Technology Act, 2000, Malaysia's Commercial Vehicles Licensing Board Act 1987 (Act 334) ("CVLBA 1987") and the Land Public Transport Act 2010 ("LPTA 2010")(Act 715). The laws under the act regulate both e-hailing operators and drivers. Moreover, e-hailing service providers are mandated to have an intermediation business license to operate their business in Malaysia. Thus, the stringent rules and regulations imposed on taxi services are restricting the online taxi services market growth during the forecast period.



In September 2019, Mahindra & Mahindra, an Indian multinational vehicle manufacturing corporation announced the acquisition of 55% stakes in Meru Cabs, a taxi cab service provider for $27.3 million (Rs 201.5 crore). With the acquisition of Meru Cabs, Mahindra & Mahindra plans to expand its business with participation in the growing shared mobility space. Meru Cabs is an India-based ridesharing company operating in the ride-hailing segment and corporate transportation solutions.



Key Topics Covered:



1. Executive Summary



2. Online Taxi Services Market Characteristics



3. Online Taxi Services Market Trends and Strategies



4. Impact of COVID-19 on Online Taxi Services



5. Online Taxi Services Market Size and Growth

5.1. Global Online Taxi Services Historic Market, 2015-2020, $ Billion

5.1.1. Drivers of the Market

5.1.2. Restraints on The Market

5.2. Global Online Taxi Services Forecast Market, 2020-2025F, 2030F, $ Billion

5.2.1. Drivers of the Market

5.2.2. Restraints on the Market



6. Online Taxi Services Market Segmentation

7. Online Taxi Services Market Regional and Country Analysis

7.1. Global Online Taxi Services Market, Split By Region, Historic and Forecast, 2015-2020, 2020-2025F, 2030F, $ Billion

7.2. Global Online Taxi Services Market, Split By Country, Historic and Forecast, 2015-2020, 2020-2025F, 2030F, $ Billion

8. Asia-Pacific Online Taxi Services Market

9. China Online Taxi Services Market

10. India Online Taxi Services Market

11. Japan Online Taxi Services Market

12. Australia Online Taxi Services Market

13. Indonesia Online Taxi Services Market

14. South Korea Online Taxi Services Market

15. Western Europe Online Taxi Services Market

16. UK Online Taxi Services Market

17. Germany Online Taxi Services Market

18. France Online Taxi Services Market

19. Eastern Europe Online Taxi Services Market

20. Russia Online Taxi Services Market

21. North America Online Taxi Services Market

22. USA Online Taxi Services Market

23. South America Online Taxi Services Market

24. Brazil Online Taxi Services Market

25. Middle East Online Taxi Services Market

26. Africa Online Taxi Services Market

27. Online Taxi Services Market Competitive Landscape and Company Profiles

27.1. Online Taxi Services Market Competitive Landscape

27.2. Online Taxi Services Market Company Profiles

27.2.1. ANI Technologies Private Limited

27.2.1.1. Overview

27.2.1.2. Products and Services

27.2.1.3. Strategy

27.2.1.4. Financial Performance

27.2.2. Uber India Systems Private Limited

27.2.2.1. Overview

27.2.2.2. Products and Services

27.2.2.3. Strategy

27.2.2.4. Financial Performance

27.2.3. Lyft Inc.

27.2.3.1. Overview

27.2.3.2. Products and Services

27.2.3.3. Strategy

27.2.3.4. Financial Performance

27.2.4. Didi Chuxing

27.2.4.1. Overview

27.2.4.2. Products and Services

27.2.4.3. Strategy

27.2.4.4. Financial Performance

27.2.5. GrabTaxi Holdings Pte Ltd

27.2.5.1. Overview

27.2.5.2. Products and Services

27.2.5.3. Strategy

27.2.5.4. Financial Performance



29. Key Mergers and Acquisitions in the Online Taxi Services Market



29. Online Taxi Services Market Future Outlook and Potential Analysis



30. Appendix

30.1. Abbreviations

30.2. Currencies

30.3. Research Inquiries

30.4. About the Publisher

30.5. Copyright and Disclaimer



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SHANGHAI and ROCKVILLE, Md., May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- WuXi Biologics ("WuXi Bio") (2269.HK), a global company with leading open-access biologics technology platforms, and OncoC4, Inc., a privately-held, clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, today announced that the companies have entered into an exclusive contract development and manufacturing partnership for OncoC4's full pipeline of biologics including its late-stage project, ONC-392, a next generation CTLA-4 antibody which is under phase I clinical trials in the U.S. and China.

Per the agreement, WuXi Biologics, as the exclusive CDMO partner will provide biologics development and cGMP manufacturing services for OncoC4's products from early R&D and preclinical activities to post commercialization. OncoC4 will leverage WuXi Biologics' process development and manufacturing capabilities and expertise in cell line development, formulation development as well as drug substance and drug product manufacture.

The two companies expand the strategic collaboration by using the proprietary WuXiBody bispecific antibody platform to research and develop certain bispecific antibodies. Under the terms of the agreement, OncoC4 has rights to use the WuXiBody platform to research and develop bispecific antibodies. For any potential bispecific antibody products commercialized from the WuXiBody platform, in addition to an upfront payment, WuXi Biologics will receive development and commercialization milestones as well as tiered royalties on net sales of such bispecific antibody.

These new agreements build on the companies' successful multi-year relationship. Since 2017, WuXi Biologics has been providing services to OncoC4 (formerly known as OncoImmune), including comprehensive and integrated CMC services for the ONC-392 clinical program.

Dr. Yang Liu, Chairman, CEO and Founder of OncoC4, commented, "This long-term supply agreement is another significant step forward in our relationship with WuXi Biologics. It allows OncoC4 to leverage world-class manufacturing capacity to meet the challenges associated with the production of our best-in-class and first-in-class biologics, that include bispecific antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates that target innate and adaptive immune checkpoints for cancer treatment."

Dr. Chris Chen, CEO of WuXi Biologics, commented, "We are honored to be OncoC4's exclusive CDMO partner for its full therapeutic pipeline, which is another great example of our follow and win the molecule strategy. This partnership is a strong validation of our premier quality and project execution excellence. We are looking forward to enabling OncoC4 to make innovative life-saving biologics more available and affordable to patients across the globe."

About OncoC4

Based in Rockville, Maryland, OncoC4 is a privately-held, clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company that is actively engaged in the discovery and development of novel biologicals for cancer treatment. OncoC4 is a spinout of OncoImmune that was acquired by Merck in December 2020. As part of the acquisition of OncoImmune by Merck, OncoC4 retains the original assets except for the CD24Fc and was infused with additional funds from Merck to invigorate the product development pipeline focusing on best-in-class and first-in-class immunotherapies for oncology.

OncoC4's lead clinical candidate is ONC-392, a next generation anti-CTLA-4 antibody capable of uncoupling the cancer therapeutic effects from immunotherapy-related adverse effects. A first-in-human Phase I clinical trial for ONC-392 was initiated in 2020 and is currently enrolling cancer patients to assess the safety, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy of ONC-392 as a single agent in advanced solid tumors and in combination with anti-PD(L)1 standard of care in Non- Small Cell Lung Cancer (PRESERVE-001, NCT04140526).

OncoC4's new products represent new paradigms of therapeutic targeting of not only adaptive immune checkpoints including CTLA-4 and PD-L1, but also innate immune checkpoint CD24-Siglec 10, which was discovered by OncoC4 founders. Technology platforms includes humanized antibodies, bispecific antibody and antibody-drug conjugates. For more details, please visit www.oncoc4.com.

About WuXi Biologics

WuXi Biologics (stock code: 2269.HK), a Hong Kong-listed company, is a leading global open-access biologics technology platform offering end-to-end solutions to empower organizations to discover, develop, and manufacture biologics from concept to commercial manufacturing. The company's history and achievements demonstrate its commitment to providing a truly one-stop service offering and strong value proposition to its global clients.

As of March 22, 2021, there were a total of 361 integrated projects, including 190 projects in pre-clinical development stage, 137 projects in early-phase (phase I and II) clinical development, 32 projects in late-phase (phase III) development and 2 projects in commercial manufacturing. With total estimated capacity for biopharmaceutical production planned in China, Ireland, the U.S., Germany, and Singapore around 430,000 liters after 2024, WuXi Biologics will provide its biomanufacturing partners with a robust and premier-quality global supply chain network.

WuXi Biologics views Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) as an integral component of its ethos and business strategy and has established an ESG committee led by the CEO to increase the efficiency while advancing commitment to sustainability. For more information about WuXi Biologics, please visit: www.wuxibiologics.com.

Contact:

OncoC4

[email protected]

WuXi Biologics

Media

[email protected]

Investor

[email protected]

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Steady improvements in mined and processed tonnes allied to a recovery in metal prices saw Tharisa put in a storming first-half performance

( ) said its growth strategy remains on track after a first half that saw steady improvements in mined and processed tonnes.

Revenue in the six months to the end of March rose 61.2% to US$313.6mln from US$194.6mln the year before. The group said platinum group metals concentrate generated US$193.3mln of sales while US$102.1mln was derived from the sale of chrome concentrate.

Underlying earnings (EBITDA) shot up 243% to US$124.2mln, from US$36.2mln 12 months earlier, while profit before tax rocketed 498% to US$104.6mln from US$17.5mln.

Operating cash flow improved to US$104.9mln from US$39.7mln previously, leading to the company moving into a positive net cash position of US$29.8mln compared with a deficit of US$26.2mln at the end of March 2020.

The platinum group metals (PGM) miner has declared an interim dividend of four cents, which is roughly equivalent to 2.82p.

The company maintained full-year production guidance of 155,000  165,000 ounces of PGMs and 1.45mln  1.55mln tonnes of chrome concentrates.

All our major commodities, namely platinum group metals (PGMs) and chrome basket prices rose, as the world economy started to recover post the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. With our favourable PGM basket, we saw prices trading at historic record levels breaking through the US$4,000 per Tharisa PGM basket ounce, said Phoevos Pouroulis, the chief executive of Tharisa.

Tharisa was able to convert its operating performance into healthy cash generation, leading to balance sheet deleveraging and an interim dividend higher than the previous annual dividend, bringing our total cash return to shareholders to date to nearly US$50 million, while also showing a net cash balance of just under US$30 million, he added.

Our growth strategy remains well on track, with Vulcan construction progressing as planned and Tharisa post-half-year announcing the consolidation of its ownership in Salene Chrome, a strategic building block to capture the significant geological endowment of Zimbabwes Great Dyke, Pouroulis said.

Peel Hunt said it was caught on the hop a bit by the strength of the cash flow, which resulted in earnings being a bit above its expectations.

"Low cash tax payments (we had assumed the tax shield was fully utilised in the prior year) meant very strong operating cash flows of US$104mln. This meant the group closed the period with a net cash position of US$30mln," the broker said.

"Looking forward, the strength in PGM prices is likely to more than offset the rising freight costs for the chrome concentrate side of the business relative to our present estimates. We expect the business to strengthen its balance sheet further - despite a 2H weighting to capex spending. This we believe would allow the board to propose a substantial step up in dividends," it added.

The broker rates the shares as a "buy" with a target price of 220p.

Tharisa shares currently trade at 144p, up 4.4% on the day.

--- adds broker comment and share price reaction ---
"Apollon Jamaica is again seeing patients at our pre-COVID levels," said Stephen Barnhill.

Plc ( ) told investors it has reopened its medical cannabis dispensary and treatment centre in Jamaica following certification for COVID-19 health and safety.

The company, in a statement, noted that Jamaicas Tourism Product Development Company Ltd (TPDCo), an agent for the government, recently performed a COVID-19 compliance assessment of the facility in Negril.

"We are very proud of our Jamaican team for successfully passing all requirements leading to this certification, said Stephen Barnhill, group chief executive.

Since receiving this government required certification, Apollon Jamaica is again seeing patients at our pre-COVID levels.

The health and safety of our patients are our primary concern, especially for those who are very ill and suffering. Having TPDCo Certification allows us to receive medical tourist patients and better enable all patients to have access to needed medical cannabis treatments."

Apollon Jamaica chief executive Paul Burke, meanwhile, added: We want our patients to know that, whether they are local to Jamaica, or have travelled internationally to Jamaica, Apollon Jamaica will provide them with a safe and COVID-19 compliant environment for their treatment."
A 60-kilogram sample of fresh coking coal indicative of Ovoots Upper Seam, which will be the focus of the Ovoot Early Development Project, was tested by SGS in Tianjin China.

The company will now engage with Chinese and Russian technical institutes and steel mills to confirm value in use.

( ) (FRA:WKU) has received fresh laboratory results confirming that its Ovoot Coking Coal Project (OCCP) in Mongolia is a high-quality premium fat coking coal of high value and that is in demand in neighbouring China.

A 60-kilogram sample of fresh coking coal indicative of Ovoots Upper Seam, which will be the focus of the Ovoot Early Development Project, was tested by SGS in Tianjin China.

The key results are consistent with earlier laboratory tests and reaffirm the attractiveness of Ovoot Fat Coking Coal as having outstanding caking, fluidity and plastic properties across a wide temperature range.

Investors have responded positively with shares up more than 35% in early trading to 10 cents.

Support Ovoot funding development

The company will now work with Chinese and Russian institutes to pre-qualify the coal prior to marketing activities commencing.

Aspire chairman David Paull said: The receipt of these test results was a reminder of the high-quality fat coking coal that the world-class Ovoot Coking Coal Project can produce.

This coal has previously been well received by Russian and Chinese end-users and we will now work to secure sales commitments to support Ovoot funding development.

The company will engage with Chinese and Russian technical institutes and steel mills to confirm value in use.

Summary of results

Classified at highest category

The company hired Ross Brims, an experienced coal processing and technology expert to manage the coals certification process for Chinese steel mills.

He said: In my view and after reviewing all of the current and historical data, Ovoot would be expected to be classified at the highest category of fat coking coals available to the Chinese steel industry.

Fat coking coals are used to blend with other coking coals with lower coking properties making up around 5% to 10% of the total blend - allowing for reduced reliance on prime hard coking coals in the blend.

Under the Chinese coking coal classification system, Ovoots coal would be classified as FM 36# Metabituminous Coal.

Also fits Russian coal classification

Ovoot Coking Coal also fits within the Fat (Zh) and Coking Fat (KZh) coking coal categories within the Russian coal classification system.

The characteristics that make a fat coal important to add to blends include the wide plastic range, in that it is able to blend with numerous other types of coals with narrower melting ranges.

It also has very high fluidity which allows for the coal to mix well with the other coals in the batch.

Additionally, the plastic layer (Y Index) effectively bonds particles from other coals, the thicker the plastic layer the better.

Source: sxcoal.com.

Making up Chinese shortfall

High-quality fat coking coals have an important value in use in the Chinese steel industry, particularly at present with import limitations being put on Australian hard coking coals.

China is not self-sufficient in sourcing hard coking coals and since 2009 has relied on imports to make up the shortfall.

Adding quality fat coking coals allow steel mills to add lower quality coking coals into the batch, more than what hard coking coals could carry to make quality coke.

Fat coking coals like Ovoots would be used between 5% to 10% of a coke batch in order to support the carrying ability of the limited supply of prime hard coking coals.

Notably, fat coking coals are priced at around the same as hard coking coals in Tianjin China.
Mangaluru : , May 27 (IANS) Karnataka police arrested four member inter-state gang that was involved in a Ganja smuggling and seized 200 kgs of this banned substance valued around Rs 20 lakh, the Mangaluru police said here on Wednesday.

According to the Mangaluru police, the arrested are identified as Mohammed Farooq (24), and Mohiudeen Nawaz (34) both are from Kasargod, Kerala, while Mohammed Ansar (23) from Mudipu in Mangaluru Sayyed Mohammed (31) from Kushalnagar in Kodagu district of Karnataka.

Mangaluru city police commissioner N. Shashi Kumar told reporters that the Moodbidri police was investigating into case related to a dacoity case and after series of rounding up of criminals, one of them spilled the beans about such huge quantity of Ganja being smuggled from Vishakhapatniam in Andhra Pradesh.

"Based on this information, the Moodbidre police launched a search operation and kept a tight vigil on all entry points. Earlier we had the information from such a huge quantity coming into the state in a fish supply truck. When we waylaid the plush car, the police could seize only 60 kgs of Ganja. But seeing the police, the driver of this car, revealed that they had split the total Ganja packets in other vehicles in Hassan and those vehicles were also approaching in an hour's time. As per his information, a lorry car approached, when we seized this lorry, packets of Ganja totaling around 157 kgs were concealed in various chambers of this lorry," the commissioner explained.

The commissioner added that the gang's intention was to sell a portion of this large quantity to peddlers of Uppala in Mangaluru and majority of the consignment was heading towards Kasaragod in Kerala.

The police has registered a case and is investigating
Los Angeles, May 27 : Actress Rebel Wilson is ready to date again after her break-up with businessman Jacob Busch.

"It's been a respectable amount of time, you know, after a breakup. You have respect for the person you've broken up with, so now, yeah, out there looking," Wilson told Extra, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

The news comes after she said her split wasn't "ideal".

Wilson confirmed her breakup in February on Instagram, sharing a picture in which she called herself a "single girl".

"Lots on my mind...aghhhhhh...#single-girl-heading-to-Super-Bowl!" she wrote as the caption.

Wilson and Busch were last photographed together during the Christmas holidays when they were on a vacation together, which came three months after they had confirmed their romance by attending Prince Albert's Planetary Health Gala together in Monaco last September.
New Delhi, May 27 : The Facebook-owned instant messenger, WhatsApp in the Delhi High Court has challenged the new IT rule over traceability of messages and termed it unconstitutional, as it breaches basic privacy of citizens. However in September 2019, the Supreme Court had said it was imperative that there is a regime to find out originators of messages, and it may be necessary to get such information from the intermediaries.

In February this year, the Centre notified the 'Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code Rules 2021' for social media companies operating in the country. The Centre gave these companies three months to follow. However, Rule 4(2) particularly made WhatsApp upset. The rule said a significant social media intermediary providing services primarily in the nature of messaging shall enable the identification of the first originator of the information on its computer resource as may be required by a judicial order passed by a court of competent jurisdiction under section 69 IT Rules, 2009.

Interestingly, a bench comprising Justices Deepak Gupta and Aniruddha Bose in an order passed on September 24, 2019, made some crucial observations in Facebook Inc. Vs Union of India and others, in connection with the first originator of a message.

The bench said there were various messages and content spread or shared on the social media, some of which are harmful, and some messages can incite violence. It had noted there may be messages which are against the sovereignty and integrity of the country; also, there is large amount of pornography and pedophiles use social media in a big way.

"Drugs, weapons and other contrabands can be sold through the use of platforms run by the intermediaries. In such circumstances, it is imperative that there is a properly framed regime to find out the persons/institutions/bodies who are the originators of such content/messages. It may be necessary to get such information from the intermediaries," the bench had said.

It noted de-encryption, if available easily, could defeat the fundamental right of privacy and de-encryption of messages may be done under special circumstances but it must be ensured that the privacy of an individual is not invaded.

"However, at the same time, the sovereignty of the state and the dignity and reputation of an individual are required to be protected. For purposes of detection, prevention and investigation of certain criminal activities it may be necessary to obtain such information. De-encryption and revelation of the identity of the originator may also be necessary in certain other cases, some of which have been highlighted hereinabove," the top court had said then.

The top court had observed, in this context, the law is still at a nascent stage and technology keeps changing every day, if not every hour. The bench had stressed that there are various creases which need to be ironed out.

"Though, the guidelines provided that the intermediaries should furnish the information, it is not clear how the intermediaries who are based abroad and do not even have grievance officer posted in the country, would be compelled to reveal this information," the bench had noted.

However, in its petition at the Delhi High Court, WhatsApp said identification of the first originator of a message under the new rules infringed upon the fundamental rights to privacy and free speech of the hundreds of millions of citizens using the instant messaging app to communicate privately and securely.

The petition contended the requirement that intermediaries like WhatsApp enable the identification of the first originator of information in India on their platforms puts end-to-end encryption and its benefits at risk.

(Sumit Saxena can be contacted at sumit.s@ians.in )
Agra, May 27 : Ahead of the World Environment Day on June 5, river activists in Agra and Mathura, have again voiced their concern over the dry and polluted Yamuna, the lifeline of the entire Braj Mandal.

They have, in letters and memorandums demanded cleaning of the river bed to rid the river of toxins, industrial effluents and other pollutants.

Agra's National Chamber of Industries and Commerce in a petition to the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister has demanded thorough dredging of the river bed from Vrindavan to Agra's Bateshwar, the holy town with 108 Shiva temples in a row along the bend of the river.

Chamber president Manish Agarwal said the deplorable condition of the river Yamuna can only be set right if urgent measures are taken to desist the river before the monsoon rains.

Sita Ram Agarwal, a functionary of the Chamber and industrialist said, tourism is dependent on the river Yamuna, as all major monuments are sited along its banks.

River Connect Campaign member Devashish Bhattacharya said "for the past seven years we have been persuading the state and the union governments to initiate appropriate measures to save Yamuna from dying. Yamuna needs cleaning, it needs uninterrupted flow of water to dilute the pollutants and sustain aqua life. The state government is dragging its feet on the Yamuna Barrage project, downstream of the Taj Mahal. Despite promises, no concrete action has been taken thus far".

River campaigners Rahul Raj, Deepak Rajput, Ranjan Sharma and others said accused the nine MLAs, three MPs of the BJP from Agra, for their callous apathy.

Pandit Jugal Kishor said: "Nitin Gadkari has promised in 2015 that steamers would ferry tourists from Delhi to Agra, but now he has completely forgotten the issue." River Yamuna constitutes a critical component of the Agra environment whose good health was vital for the maintenance of historical buildings that attracted millions of tourists round the year.

"The high level of dust in the ambient air was hurting the Taj Mahal and other monuments. The dry and polluted Yamuna had become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria's and mosquitoes that defaced the white marble," said Surendra Sharma, president of the Braj Mandal Heritage Conservation Society.

In Mathura, efforts are being made by the NGO, Yamuna Mission, to green the river banks, using the drain water after treatment.

"The whole stretch from Kans Kila to Masani Nala and beyond towards Vrindavan had been systematically greened with dense foliage," said Pradip Bansal of the Yamuna Mission.

In Vrindavan, several stretches had been greened along the river.

Jagan Nath Poddar, convener of the Friends of Vrindavan said, "we are right now busy cleaning up the sprawling Mansarovar Lake. As the rains start, we will start planting saplings. The Covid-19 pandemic has reduced the pressure on the holy town and the river, due to the lockdown. We hope the nature will now breathe free".
United Nations, May 27 : The current European Union (EU) members of the UN Security Council, Estonia, France and Ireland, plus previous council members of Belgium and Germany, have strongly the forced landing of a Ryanair flight in Belarus earlier this week.

The above mentioned nations were also on Wednesday joined by the current council members of the UK, Norway and the US in condemning Sunday's incident, reports Xinhua news agency.

"The airplane, owned by a EU company, carrying more than 100 passengers from one EU member state's capital to another, was forced to land based on false grounds by a Belarusian military aircraft," a joint statement issued by the countries said.

"These acts are a blatant attack on international civilian aviation safety and on European security and show flagrant disregard for international law," it added.

They called on the International Civil Aviation Organization to urgently investigate this "unprecedented and unacceptable" incident and for full accountability for those responsible.

Irish airline Ryanair said in a statement on Sunday that its flight FR4978 from Athens to Vilnius, Lithuania, was notified by Belarusian authorities of "a potential security threat on board" and was "instructed to divert to the nearest airport, Minsk".

"Nothing untoward was found," it added.

The flight later took off again and landed in the Lithuanian capital on Sunday night after a seven-hour detour.

In an updated statement on Monday, Ryanair said that it "condemns the unlawful actions of Belarusian authorities", calling it "an act of aviation piracy".

In response, EU member states have agreed to cut the bloc's air links with Belarus following "the unprecedented and unacceptable incident".

The leaders urged the European Council to adopt the necessary measures to ban overflight of EU airspace by Belarusian airlines; prevent access to bloc's airports of Belarusian flights; and called on all EU-based carriers to avoid overflight of Belarus.
Lucknow, May 27 : The Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh has decided to extend free treatment to those suffering with problems in the post Covid-19 phase.

The move will benefit one in 10 Covid-19 positive patients who get hospitalised for management of the infection but cannot be discharged on account of other complications.

Till date, over 20,000 of the 62,000 active cases are undergoing treatment in the state.

The facility will be provided in all medical colleges, state aided, autonomous and private, and in institutions including the Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, King George's Medical University and Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences.

Principal Secretary, Medical Education, Alok Kumar said: "It has come to the notice of the state government that despite testing negative to the pandemic infection, some patients continue to suffer due to post Covid-19 complications." He said that such patients have to continue to stay in hospitals for management and they have to bear the cost of treatment too.

"In public interest, the state government has decided to bear the cost of the extended treatment," Kumar added.

The government order guarantees free continuity of treatment to those already admitted but is silent on cases who get re-admitted to hospital following a post-Covid issue arising after discharge.

Sources said that the department may come up with a clear protocol on this as well.

"The government is not averse to extending treatment to cases of re-admission as well but then a time frame may be fixed in this regard," an official said.

A large number of patients who get hospitalized, suffer with, at least, one comorbid condition.

For example, the blood sugar levels of those with diabetes get deranged post Covid-19 treatment which relies on steroids.

A number of such patients require insulin therapy and other administration of medicines through the intravenous route.

"At times, patients recover from coronavirus infection but their organs do not recover from the damage caused by the pandemic virus. Under the present system, the moment they test negative, patient care management becomes chargeable. Some patient families expressed inability to bear the treatment," said a senior faculty member at the SGPGI.

According to experts, problems like post Covid-19 pneumonia lung fibrosis is a common sequel to the infection and requires high dependency care.

In a number of patients, the virus is known to cause acute renal disease which also requires long term management.

Covid-19 infection is known to adversely impact the heart as well.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Siddhartha Nagara : , May 27 (IANS) After initially denying that about 20 residents of a village in Uttar Pradesh's Siddhartha Nagar district were administered a different vaccine brand for the second dose, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Sandeep Chaudhary said that an inquiry has been ordered into the incident.

He said stern action would be taken against those responsible for the mix-up.

Health workers in the district had administered the Covaxin to 20 villagers who had been given Covishield in the first dose.

Siddhartha Nagar is the home district of the state's Health Minister, Jai Pratap Singh.

The incident took place in the primary health centre in Barhni where people from Audahi Kala and another village received Covaxin shots on May 14.

These villagers had been given Covishield in the first dose.

The incident came to light when one of the villagers, Ram Surat, realised that he had received different vaccines in the first and the second dose and informed senior officials.

The CMO said 20 people had been administered a mix-up of vaccines and the medical teams are keeping a close watch on them.

The people who got different vaccines are under stress but no problem has been reported with any one of them so far, he said.

He further said that no one has yet reported any health complaints so far and a health department team has already met them.

Meanwhile, a health worker, who is a part of the vaccination team, said: "We were given vaccines and we simply vaccinated the people. It is the higher officials who should have taken care to see which vaccine is to be given where."
May 27 : Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan's youngest son AbRam Khan is celebrating his birthday today. On his 8th birthday, the little munchkin is showered with love from people on social media. Now big sister Suhana Khan has showered love on her little brother on his special day. Since his childhood, AbRam has always been in the spotlight, winning hearts with his cute antics.

Taking to her Instagram profile, Suhana shared an adorable video posing with AbRam, and wrote, Happy Birthday to you cutie boi Abram Khan. In the cute video clip, AbRam can be seen pecking his elder sisters cheek while she takes the selfie. In the sun-kissed picture, the siblings seem to be out for swimming. Besides the video, Suhana also shared a series of pictures of herself with AbRam as she wished him from New York, where she is currently studying.

Shah Rukh and Gauri welcomed AbRam via surrogacy on May 27, 2013. Fans gush over him whenever his picture is shared on social media. Shah Rukh is very close to AbRam and often shares pictures of the little munchkin in his social media accounts--be it meeting with fans along with AbRam or cheering him at his school sports. After his birth, an excited Shah Rukh explained the meaning of AbRam's name in an interview. "AbRam is a Jewish connotation of Hazrat Ibrahim, so I think it is a good mix. ... It sounds very nice with the name of Hindu god Ram in it," Shah Rukh had said.

The little kid has already made his acting debut and made his first on-screen appearance in Shah Rukh and Deepika Padukones film Happy New Year in 2014, when he was just 1 year old. During the end credits of the film helmed by Farah Khan, AbRam made an adorable appearance and won hearts with his cuteness.
Twitter fined $260,000 for refusal to delete banned information

 pixabay.com

15:32 27/05/2021

MOSCOW, May 27 (RAPSI)  A magistrate judge of a judicial district of Moscows Tagansky District Court on Thursday fined Twitter Inc 19 million rubles ($260,000) for refusal to delete information banned by Russian legislation from the social network, the courts spokesperson Zulfiya Gurinchuk told RAPSI.

The court fined the social media upon 6 administrative protocols, she added.

On May 25, the court imposed fines totaling to 6 million rubles on Google LLC and 26 million rubles on Facebook for similar violations.

Earlier, fines were issued against Telegram, TikTok and Odnoklassniki.

Previously, Russias communications watchdog Roskomnadzor reminded that after the notification, the platforms failed to block the prohibited information within 24 hours and could face fines ranging from 800,000 to 4 million rubles (10,500  55,000). In case of the repeated violation the social network would face an increased fine, according to Russias communications watchdog Roskomnadzor.
Beirut, May 27 : The UN's International Organization for Migration (IOM) has announced that Lebanon's economic crisis, Covid-19 lockdowns and the 2020 Beirut port blasts have exacerbated the suffering of migrants in the country, many of whom have lost their jobs and are struggling to feed their families.

The agency's analysis, which interviewed 1,061 migrants and was released on Wednesday, revealed that 50 per cent of the respondents reported being unemployed, with the majority losing their jobs in the last quarter of 2020, reports Xinhua news agency.

Over 50 per cent of respondents also reported that they are unable to meet their food needs.

Approximately half of all respondents stated that they have substandard and insecure accommodation with inadequate shelter structures, unaffordable rent, threat of imminent eviction, and damaged homes, according to the IOM.

At least 20 per cent of respondents reported health problems, including chronic physical and mental health issues requiring continuous treatment.

Many have reported that they are being subjected to various forms of physical and psychological abuse including bullying, beating, sexual harassment and forced to work excessive hours, and denial of wages.

"As the economic situation continues to deteriorate and employment opportunities remain limited, migrants' vulnerability to exploitation and abuse is likely to increase," said Mathieu Luciano, head of the IOM Office in Lebanon.

"Humanitarian organisations are slowly expanding their emergency relief programs to address the immediate needs of vulnerable migrants.

"However, more sustainable solutions to alleviate migrant suffering, such as voluntary return and reintegration assistance, remain a glaring gap," he said.

According to the UN Refugee Agency, Lebanon remains the country hosting the largest number of refugees per capita.

There are, an estimated 1.5 million Syrian refugees, and some 16,000 refugees of Ethiopian, Iraqi, Sudanese and other origins, in addition to over 200,000 Palestinian refugees.

An estimated 88 per cent of Syrian refugees in Lebanon are living below the extreme poverty line.
Baghdad, May 27 : Iraqi security personnel have arrested a leader in the paramilitary Hashd Shaabi or the Popular Mobilization Forces over terrorism charges, raising a state of emergency in the heavily fortified Green Zone in Baghdad.

A statement issued on Wednesday by the media office of the Iraqi Joint Operations Command (JOC), said: "Security forces arrested at dawn Qasim Mahmoud Karim Muslih, commander of Hashd Shaabi forces in Anbar province according to an arrest warrant issued by the Iraqi judiciary over charges of terrorism." The statement did not give further details about the charges against Muslih but said that the arrest does not target any military and security party, stressing that all military and security services are under the command of the Commander-in-Chief of the Iraqi forces, reports Xinhua news agency.

The arrest sparked a state of emergency in the Green Zone, which houses some of the main Iraqi government offices and some foreign embassies, as security forces deployed surrounding the zone and blocked all its entrances, a police source told Xinhua.

The official Iraqi News Agency said that Muslih was questioned by a committee composed of military intelligence, JOC, and Hashd Shaabi.

Meanwhile, Qais al-Khazali, head of the Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq Movement, a major Shia militant group, demanded that Muslih be handed over to the Hashd Shaabi security service, considering the arrest "as an attempt to confuse the security situation".

According to local media reports, Muslih was arrested in his home in Doura district in southern Baghdad, and leading Shia politicians are holding meetings with the government and Hashd Shaabi leading figures to ease the tension in the Iraqi capital.
New Delhi, May 27 : Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne has said that fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi, who was captured in Dominica after going missing for three days "needs to return to India" where he can face the criminal charges levelled against him.

While Choksi's lawyer Vijay Agarwal says that the moment the businessman, who is also the chairman of the Gitanjali group, acquired the citizenship of Antigua he ceased to be a citizen of India and hence legally as per Immigration and Passport Act Section 17 and 23, he can only be deported to Antigua.

Antigua News Room, a media outlet, quoted Browne as telling journalists in Antigua and Barbuda: "We asked them not to repatriate him to Antigua. He needs to return to India where he can face the criminal charges levelled against him." The Antigua Observor also said that Browne has reportedly told the media in India that he has asked Dominican government to detain Choksi for entering their country illegally. "Browne has asked that officials in Dominica make Choksi persona non grata and have him deported directly to India," the Antigua Observor reported.

Choksi, who is wanted by the CBI and the ED in connection with the over Rs 13,500 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) loan fraud case, has reportedly been taken into custody in Dominica on Wednesday.

Choksi was reported missing on Sunday from Antigua and Barbuda, where he had taken citizenship, sparking a manhunt for the fugitive businessman.

The Antigua Observer also reported that Choksi is in the custody of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Dominica.

Choksi is fighting two cases in Antigua, according to the CBI, related to his citizenship and his extradition to India. He had fled India after taking citizenship in 2017 in Antigua, where wealthy foreigners can become citizens in exchange for investing there.

Speaking to IANS, Agarwal said, "As per Indian Citizenship Act Section 9, the moment Choksi acquired the citizenship of Antigua he ceased to be a citizen of India. Hence legally he can be deported only to Antigua." Agarwal said that "moreover as there is Antiguan High Court order restraining processing any request from India so my understanding is that he has to be sent back to Antigua only and there is no question of him being sent to India".

"Moreover there should be no speculations till one finds out from Choksi that how he landed in Dominica, my understanding is that his reaching Dominica is not voluntary," he said.

Agarwal also said that "I find something fishy that nobody seems to be at the moment looking into the fact that how exactly he reached Dominica." "It has to be done legally and it is not a game of chess and we are dealing with a human being and nor a pawn that shall be placed here or there and it cannot be on somebody's desires and whims.

"Further as per universal declaration of human right there are international covenants on voluntary repatriation and a person can be deported to only the country of his citizenship," Agarwal said.

On Sunday, the Commissioner of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, Atlee Rodney, had said the force is currently following up on the whereabouts of Choksi, who is reportedly missing, local media Antigua News Room had reported.

CBI sources here said that he was captured on the basis of the Red Corner notice issued by Interpol earlier.

Choksi, an accused in the over Rs 13,500 crore PNB fraud case along with his nephew Nirav Modi, has been residing in Antigua and Berbuda since January 4, 2018.

The CBI and ED, which have filed separate chargesheets in the case, are trying for the extradition of Choksi.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, May 27 : In a rare case, 'White Fungus' (Candida) has caused "multifocal perforations" in the food pipeline, small bowl and large bowl in a post Covid-19 patient -- a case different from known infections of the disease that creates problem in lungs and upper respiratory tract.

A 49-year-old woman, belonging to the National Capital Region (NCR), has been detected with the infection at Delhi's Sir Ganga Ram Hospital after she was admitted there on May 13 with complaints of severe abdominal pain, vomiting and constipation.

"At the time of admission, the patient was in shock and had severe respiratory distress," Ganga Ram Hospital authorities told IANS.

Explaining about the details of the woman, whose name is withheld, the hospital said she had undergone mastectomy (removal of breast) for breast cancer and had received her chemotherapy till four weeks ago.

The hospital further informed that the CT Scan of the abdomen revealed free air and moderate amount of free fluid in the abdominal cavity suggestive of an intestinal perforation.

"We immediately placed a tube inside the abdomen and drained about one liter of bile-stained pus," Dr (Prof) Anil Arora, Chairman, Institute of Liver, Gastroenterology and Pancreaticobiliary Sciences, Ganga Ram Hospital told IANS.

Next day, the doctor said, the woman was taken for emergency surgery by a team of GI Surgeons lead by Dr (Prof) Samiran Nundy of Department of Surgical Gastroenterology and Liver Transplantation and GI Surgery.

Dr Nundy said the surgery revealed "perforation in the lower end of the esophagus (food pipe)".

"A part of the small intestine had developed gangrene and sloughed off and she (the patient) had multiple thinned out patches in the wall of the colon with one small leak.

"The perforations were closed and the gangrenous segment was resected in a difficult surgery lasting for 4 hours after which a piece of intestine was sent for Biopsy," Nundy said.

Dr Arora further said that the biopsy of the resected intestinal segment showed the presence of severe ulceration of the intestinal wall with resultant perforation and necrosis caused by invasive Candida pseuodhyphae - the White Fungus.

"Her total Covid-19 antibody levels were markedly elevated. Her blood as well as peritoneal fluid culture showed exuberant growth of the same Candida species-the White Fungus." The patient was immediately started on antifungals and showed remarkable improvement, Arora said.

However, Dr Aurobindo of Department of Liver Transplantation and GI Surgery said, five days later the patient had to undergo a second surgery for a small leak from the anastomotic site from which she is now recovering.

Dr Arora, further added, "The Covid 19 virus has been known to affect the lungs and upper respiratory tract. Infection of the intestine by the black fungus (Mucormycosis) secondary to steroid use has been recently reported but White Fungus (Candida) causing severe ulceration and gangrene of the intestine presenting with multifocal perforations in esophagus, small bowel and large bowel in the setting of Covid-19 infection has not been reported in literature to the best of our knowledge.

"As the exact mechanism is unknown, the probable explanation involves an unholy combination of three states causing immunosuppression: a malignancy (carcinoma breast), recent chemotherapy, and a superimposed Covid-19 infection." Arora said all three factors conspired together in the patient's case bringing down the immune system to dismally low levels resulting in turncoat of a normal inhabitant of intestine called Candida into a monstrous invasive form resulting in multifocal intestinal perforations with resultant shock and septicemia.

"Normally the intestine remains in perfect harmony with the fungus called Candida," said the doctor.

In immunosuppressed states like diabetes, injudicious use of steroids, overzealous broad-spectrum antibiotics and chemotherapy for an underlying malignancy, the doctor said, there is inward migration of this Candida - the White Fungus- from the intestinal lumen into the body tissues by disrupting the normal gut barriers.

"This is followed by intestinal complications like ulcers, bleeding, gangrene and perforation followed by transmigration of the Candida across the beleaguered gut barrier into blood culminating in septicemia and multiorgan failure." The affliction of White Fungus is milder than that of mucormycosis (black fungus) but in this Covid era one must definitely be aware of this possibility, said Arora.

However, doctor Nundy stressed on correct diagnosis and timely treatment to optimise patient outcome.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, May 27 : Pakistan is witnessing a storm over its alleged support to the US in its military operations in Afghanistan. Prime Minister Imran Khan is being hauled over the coals for providing air and ground access to the US military for Afghanistan.

The controversy started last Friday in the US and continues to singe the Imran Khan government in Islamabad. It also keeps the fire burning on the Af-Pak region as the US begins withdrawal of its troops from the region.

Pentagon official, David F Helvey, told the Senate Armed Services Committee last week that the US will continue to engage with Pakistan as the latter has played an important role in supporting the peace process in Afghanistan. Importantly, Helvey, who is the Assistant Secretary of Defence for Indo-Pacific Affairs, said that Pakistan allowed the US military to fly over Pakistani airspace to carry out its operations in Afghanistan, where the US has been engaged in counter-terror operations for nearly two decades.

Pakistani newspaper Dawn quoted Helvey as saying: "Pakistan has played an important role in Afghanistan and they have supported the Afghan peace process". Helvey added: "We will continue our conversations with Pakistan because their support and their contribution to the future of Afghanistan, the future of peace in Afghanistan is going to be critical". The Pentagon official made it clear that Pakistan will provide airspace as well as logistical help to the US in future also.

The Opposition was quick to take up the issue with the government. Many voiced opposition to providing ground and air support to the Americans.

Ahsan Iqbal of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) raised the issue in the National Assembly and sought a clarification from the government.

Jamaat-e-Islami chief Siraj-ul Haq issued a warning to the Imran Khan government. He said that Pakistan has paid a heavy price for participating in someone else's war and lost over 80,000 lives and infrastructure worth billions. He added that by engaging in foreign wars, the Imran Khan government is only endangering internal security and has pushed the country into a state of debt.

Under pressure from the political parties, Foreign minister Mehmood Qureshi, just back from a trip to Turkey and New York over the Israel-Palestine issue, addressed the Senate - the upper house of the Parliament. He assured the parliamentarians that the country will not lend its military bases to the US for future operations in Afghanistan and will also not give permission for drone attacks inside Pakistan.

Qureshi said: "Let this house and the Pakistani nation be a witness to my testimony that under Imran Khan there will be no American base built on Pakistani soil. Forget about the past," he said. To control the damage, he further added that once US troops withdraw by September, Pakistan would work for the advancement of peace in its neighbouring country.

The Pakistan foreign office rushed to salvage the government's reputation. Foreign office spokesperson Zahid Hafiz Chaudhri said: "Any speculation on this account was baseless and irresponsible and should be avoided". He added that "Pakistan and the US have a framework of cooperation in terms of Air Lines of Communication (ALOC) and Ground Lines of Communication (GLOC) in place since 2001. No new agreement has been made in this regard".

Despite the assurances by the foreign minister, the controversy is not going to abate easily as the US insisted that Pakistan has been a big help in the war against terror and will provide support to the US in the future also.

(This content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative/

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, May 27 : With WhatsApp suing the Indian government over the new IT rules for social media platforms, Twitter on Thursday requested the IT Ministry to consider a minimum of three-month extension in order for the company to implement the new intermediary guidelines.

Twitter, which witnessed a police raid on its offices in Delhi and Gurugram early this week related to the alleged Congress toolkit controversy, said that it reaffirms that Twitter continues to accept grievances from users and law enforcement via its existing grievance redressal channel available under the new IT Rules.

Stressing that it will strive to comply with applicable law in India, a Twitter spokesperson said in a statement that right now, "we are concerned by recent events regarding our employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people we serve".

"We, alongside many in civil society in India and around the world, have concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police in response to enforcement of our global Terms of Service, as well as with core elements of the new IT Rules," Twitter said in its first reaction after the police raids on its offices.

On Monday, Delhi Police visited Twitter India's local offices in the National Capital Region after Twitter had marked one of the tweets of BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra as "manipulated media".

Twitter's presumptive judgement has triggered widespread outrage among Indian users across the country.

The company spokesperson said that it plans to advocate for changes to elements of these regulations that inhibit free, open public conversation.

"We will continue our constructive dialogue with the Indian government and believe it is critical to adopt a collaborative approach. It is the collective responsibility of elected officials, industry, and civil society to safeguard the interests of the public," the spokesperson said.

The new rules notified in the gazette of India on February 25 under the Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code Rules, 2021, came into effect from May 26.

WhatsApp has moved the Delhi High Court against the new IT rules for intermediaries, saying these would violate privacy.

Electronics and IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has said the government is committed to the right to privacy, but simultaneously it also has to maintain law and order and ensure national security.

The Union Ministry of Electronics and IT has written to the social media platforms, directing them to respond on their compliance to the new digital rules as soon as possible.

Facebook has said that the company aims to comply with the provisions of the new intermediary guidelines and is working towards it.

Twitter said in its fresh statement that it is particularly concerned about the requirement to make an individual (the compliance officer) criminally liable for content on the platform, the requirements for proactive monitoring, and the blanket authority to seek information about our customers.

"This represents dangerous overreach that is inconsistent with open, democratic principles," the company argued.

"We urge the Ministry of Electronics and IT to publish these Standard Operating Protocols on procedural aspects of compliance for public consultation. We would request the Ministry to consider a minimum of 3 months extension in order for Twitter to implement the Rules".

Twitter was recently served with a non-compliance notice and have withheld a portion of the content identified in the blocking order under its 'Country Withheld Content' policy.

"The content identified was originally reported to us in the blocking orders issued since February 2021. We maintain that the content reported in the original order constitutes protected, legitimate free speech, under Indian and international law, and we have formally communicated this to the government," the company informed.

Twitter said that it has not taken any action on verified accounts that consist of news media entities, journalists, activists and politicians.

"The escalated content constitutes legitimate free speech. Yet, due to the law's limited scope under Section 69A which gives limited room to an intermediary to defend the content, we have been compelled to withhold in response to a non-compliance notice. Not doing so poses penal consequences with many risks for Twitter employees," the company noted.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Varanasi : , May 27 (IANS) Varanasi police have launched 'Operation Dastak' to keep a check on the activities of criminals having a criminal background.

Under this drive, the police will visit the places of each and every criminal to verify their details. The policemen will carry the digital dossier of criminals in their smartphone by downloading the app which is being developed.

According to commissioner of police, A. Satish Ganesh, "We have digitalized the records of 157 killers, 51 dacoits, 380 looters, five kidnappers, 518 burglars, 1,164 vehicle lifters, 153 chain snatchers and 338 gangsters. These are the records of those criminals who have remained active in the world of crime in the past five years. Their entire criminal history and personal details have been uploaded with their latest photographs in digital form." The verification of all these criminals has been started by the police stations concerned, by sending police teams at the places of each of the criminals.

With the beginning of verification of criminals, the process of developing an app is also in progress. This app will be downloaded by the policemen on their phones with given login ID and password, he added.

The police commissioner said that since the criminals are changing their style of operation with technological developments, a new system for tracking them is also being developed accordingly.

This 'Operation Dastak', he said, will be conducted in three phases.

In initial phase, policemen will reach the place of each criminal for documentation. This move will build psychological pressure on the criminal.

It will be followed by effective action against them. He added that with the progress in this operation, further details on more professional criminals will be included and updated on this app.
Lucknow, May 27 : HCL, a leading global conglomerate, announced that it has planned vaccinating 100 per cent of its India-based, eligible employees and their families with the first dose of the Covid vaccine before June 30.

According to an official release, HCL (including group companies HCL Technologies, HCL Infosystems and HCL Healthcare, and Shiv Nadar Foundation and its institutions) has already vaccinated more than 25 per cent of its eligible workforce with at least one dose.

HCL is investing over Rs 100 crore to ensure free vaccination services for employees and their families, as well as the third-party vendor personnel working with the organization. HCL plans to have administered approximately 700,000 doses (including two doses per person) by the end of the drive.

HCL is in discussions with vaccine manufacturers and top-tier hospitals, to provide COVID-19 vaccination support for its India-based employees. To encourage vaccination adoption and raise awareness about the program, it is running comprehensive communication campaigns targeted at employees.

To provide its employees a safe and convenient process for receiving the vaccination, HCL has enabled on-premises vaccination centres. It has been conducting vaccination drives since March 24, offering employees the opportunity to get inoculated at clinics managed by HCL Healthcare and at HCL's campuses in Noida, Lucknow and Chennai.

It is also in the process of making more centres operational in a phased manner.

Apparao VV, Chief Human Resources Officer, HCL Technologies said, "At HCL we are taking all necessary initiatives to ensure the safe vaccination of employees and their family members as well as third party vendor personnel who have supported us in keeping our business running in these difficult times. We are working round the clock to provide the best support to our employees and their families at every stage. Our top-most priority is to vaccinate all our employees and their families as quickly as possible and we have planned to achieve this goal by end of June." To encourage vaccination adoption and raise awareness about the program, it is running comprehensive communication campaigns targeted at employees. Additionally, it is also working with partner NGOs to support communities where it operates with vaccine registration process, along with providing relevant information regarding COVID-19, as approved by government authorities.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Hyderabad, May 27 : Junior doctors in government-run hospitals across Telangana continued their strike for the second day on Thursday The Telangana Junior Doctors Association (TJUDA) continued their protests and boycotted even emergency services in government teaching and allied hospitals.

About 4,000 junior doctors were on strike to press for their demands. They began the strike on Wednesday with the boycott of Covid-19 and non-Covid-19 elective duties and intensified it on Thursday with the boycott of emergency duties.

Though Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao accepted some of the demands and assured that the government is ready to consider all their legitimate demands, the striking junior doctors are insisting that the government either issue orders or give them written assurances.

A meeting of TJUDA was on at Osmania Medical College where the leaders were briefing the members on the talks held with Director of Medical Education Ramesh Reddy. The meeting will decide the future course of action.

The striking junior doctors staged protests at various hospitals, demanding that the government immediately accept their demands. "Our lives matter" read one of the placards held by protesters.

TJUDA is demanding 15 per cent hike for junior doctors with retrospective effect from January 2020, ex gratia of Rs 50 lakh for family members of junior doctors who died of Covid-19, allotment of beds in Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMZ) for health care workers including junior doctors and their family members for free treatment, and 10 per cent risk allowance.

The chief minister on Wednesday announced a 15 per cent increase in the honorarium for senior resident doctors. He also extended the enhanced honorarium to the medical students who are engaged in the Covid-19 duties after their three years of MBBS course. The chief minister also ordered that medical facilities for junior doctors and their family members at NIMS be further strengthened.

Chandrasekhar Rao also appealed to junior doctors to immediately call off the strike and return to the duty. He said going on strike during the pandemic is not proper.

He assured the government is ready to address justified demands of the junior doctors.

"If the junior doctors' demands are justified, the government has no objection to solve them. They can bring those demands to the government and get them solved. But it is not proper to abstain from duties now and then under the pretext of strike without even understanding the time and situation and causing inconvenience to people time and again. Moreover, going on strike under the present emergency situation caused by Corona no one will appreciate, not even the people," he said.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
State Duma Defense Committee backs ban on public identification of USSR with Third Reich

 RAPSI, Vladimir Burnov

16:20 27/05/2021

MOSCOW, May 27 (RAPSI)  The State Duma's Defense Committee has supported a bill banning the public identification of the role of the USSR and Nazi Germany in World War II, according to the official website of the lower house of Russias parliament.

Lawmakers deem it unacceptable to distort historical facts and belittle the role of the Soviet people in the victory over fascism. The changes proposed by the bill will become an effective and timely form of defending the decisions of the International Military Tribunal in Nuremberg, the Chair of the Committee, Colonel General Vladimir Shamanov said.

On Tuesday, the State Duma adopted in the first reading a bill on amendments to a federal law of 1995 on perpetuating the victory of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War, aimed at establishing a ban on public identification of the goals, decisions and actions of the leadership of the USSR and the national military command and personnel with the goals, decisions and actions of the leadership of Nazi Germany and Axis countries military command and personnel.

The authors of the initiative are State Duma deputies Elena Yampolskaya and Alexander Zhukov, as well as Senator Alexey Pushkov.

The bill is aimed at preserving the memory of the defenders of the Fatherland, ensuring legal protection of historical truth, the significance of the heroic deed of the people in defending the Fatherland, the parliamentarians point out.
Dubai, May 27 : Indian frontline workers, who have contributed to the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) fight against the Covid-19 pandemic and are currently stranded due to the ongoing flight ban, have urged authorities for their return to the Gulf nation, a media report said on Thursday.

Currently, a number of UAE residents hailing from the Indian subcontinent are stranded in their home countries due to flight bans while they were on vacations, said The Khaleej Times report.

Residents, including healthcare workers, were on vacations in their home country when the UAE announced a travel ban on passengers from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal.

"I'm an employee, a frontline nurse in Dubai, working for a reputed hospital and serving people. I went to India on vacation on April 1 after successfully fighting the second wave of Covid-19 in Dubai. But I'm unable to fly back to Dubai," Sandhya, a registered nurse, told Khaleej Times.

Sandhya added that said she might lose her job if she doesn't return to the UAE on time.

Sanjeev Kumar, another UAE resident who works for a medical centre, is also stuck in India due to the flight ban.

Since Kumar received the Covid-19 jab in Dubai, he urged the UAE authorities to allow those stranded residents who are vaccinated to return.

He requested that work permit holders should be allowed to return to the UAE because their families survive on their monthly salaries.

In the wake of the devastating second wave of the pandemic in India, the UAE has first imposed the flight ban on April 25.

The ban has now been extended until June 14.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Nagpur : , May 27 (IANS) Though freely available in nature, oxygen is now apparently a scarce commodity with states and the Central government gasping and puffing to get liquid medical oxygen (LMO) stocks for treating serious Covid-19 patients in the second wave of the pandemic.

In this crisis, a Central Railway (CR) Commercial Department OS in Nagpur Khushroo Poacha has come up with a unique solution - an "Oxygen Bank" - especially targeting the tribals in forests and urban poor or slumdwellers in the Vidarbha towns.

"I witnessed the critical shortage of oxygen, particularly in small hospitals in moffussil areas with patients just dying anywhere. I tried to help out those who cannot afford oxygen concentrators or cylinders, and there are even few who can afford it but there's no oxygen available in the remote areas," Poacha told IANS.

Accordingly, the compassionate railwayman issued a global SOS for oxygen through his social media and charitable organisations last month.

The first to respond were a 17-year-old boy and 3 engineering students who immediately donated 1 oxygen concentrator each, but the pleasant surprise came from ordinary Zoroastrians (Parsis) in Abu Dhabi who crowd-funded 40 top-class Turkish oxygen concentrators and airlifted them to the anxious Poacha.

"This was like a divine gift... I gave 6 oxygen concentrators to Dr Ashish Satav's Mahaan Hospital for exclusive use of the tribals of the remote Melghat area of Amravati. Another 6 are given for the jungle folk of Yavatmal through farmer leader Kishore Tiwari, and the rest are distributed as an 'oxygen loan' to poorest people or slumdwellers in Nagpur and other cities," Poacha smiled with pride.

The oxygen concentrators, each costing around Rs 75,000, are easy-to-use, tough workhorses and have functioned without glitches and are helping save many people breathe easily, absolutely free of cost.

"Many government and private hospitals insist after cure, the patient must remain on oxygen for at least a month. But, how can the poor patients or tribals afford this and they are kept in hospitals, depriving other needy patients of treatment," Poacha explained.

The Oxygen Bank, billed as first of its kind in the country, and instead of merely giving away, the oxygen concentrators are rotated among various tribals and poor patients as and when required, for maximum reach at minimum costs.

"With the growing demand and appeals from tribal belts in Chandrapur, Gadchiroli, Gondia and Wardha, we now seek another 60 oxygen concentrators of similar quality for the recovered poor tribals or slumdwellers," Poacha said.

A tribal patient from Nagpur, Tulsiram Bhaisare was virtually kept 'hostage' in a government hospital after he tested negative and could not be discharged as he could ill-afford an oxygen concentrator at his small dwelling.

"I appealed through the NGO Seva Kitchen and the very same day we got one delivered... My dad was discharged, he is now using it at home and recovering well," said his grateful daughter Priyanka Bhaisare.

At a function in Yavatmal, Tiwari distributed 6 oxygen concentrators to a small 10-bed hospital in a tribal village and all were deployed for use immediately for the relieved patients.

"This is indeed a unique concept and ensures that the oxygen concentrators can be put to use for multiple patients and avoid wastage of resources in the remote areas of Vidarbha," Tiwari remarked.

At the height of the first lockdown, through his 'Seva Kitchen' initiative, Poacha and his team of 1000 volunteers collected and donated food or aid worth nearly Rs 50 lakh via online appeals only, first reported by IANS (April 6, 2020.).

Impressed by the feat, Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray called up Poacha the next morning, while Railway Minister Piyush Goyal proudly tweeted his "railway family" member's eye-catching achievements the following day.

"Till date we have given over two million foodkits in Nagpur, Wardha, Yavatmal, slumdwellers in Mumbai and even Amreli in Gujarat, with support from NGOs like Sant Nirankari Seval Dal, Vasantrao Naik Sheti Swavalamban Mission, besides many silent or anonymous philanthropists preferring to remain in the shadows," acknowledged the grateful Poacha.

(Quaid Najmi can be contacted at: q.najmi@ians.in)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, May 27 : Former Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Thursday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the reforms in Lakshadweep alleging that the future of the people of the island is threatened as the administrator has unilaterally proposed sweeping changes without duly consulting elected representatives.

In a three-page letter to Modi on Wednesday, Rahul Gandhi said, "Lakshadweep's pristine natural beauty and its unique confluence of cultures have drawn people for generations. The custodians of its heritage seek to safeguard the archipelago for posterity.

"However, their future is threatened by the anti-people policies announced by the administrator of Lakshadweep, Praful Khoda Patel. The administrator has unilaterally proposed sweeping changes without duly consulting elected representatives or the public. The people of Lakshadweep are protesting against these arbitrary actions," he said.

Patel was appointed Administrator of Lakshadweep Islands in December 2020. Patel, a former Gujarat Home Minister, first shot into the limelight after Mohan Delkar, the Lok Sabha MP of Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli & Daman and Diu, committed suicide in a Mumbai hotel on February 22. Subsequently, the Maharashtra police had booked the UT Administrator in March.

The Congress leader said that the administrator's attempt to undermine the ecological sanctity of the island is evident in the draft Lakshadweep Development Authority Regulation issued recently.

"The provisions undermine safeguards pertaining to land ownership, dilute environmental regulations for certain activities and severely limit legal recourse available to affected persons. Livelihood security and sustainable development are being sacrificed for short-term commercial gains," said the Congress Lok Sabha MP from Kerala's Wayanad.

He said that the provision in the draft Panchayat Regulation that disqualifies members with more than two children is blatantly "anti-democratic".

He also said that furthermore, proposed changes to regulations like Prevention of Anti-Social Activities Regulation, the Lakshadweep Animals Preservation Regulation and lifting of restrictions on sale of alcohol are a "deliberate assault" on the "cultural and religious" fabric of the local community.

"The attempt to cut ties with Beypore port strikes at the close historical and cultural ties with Kerala," the Congress leader said.

Rahul Gandhi said that despite the Covid pandemic, the administration demolished structures used by the fisherfolk, fired contractual workers in various government departments, and relaxed quarantine norms that led to a lethal spike in Covid cases.

"Under the guise of development and maintaining law and order in a low crime union territory, the draconian regulations penalise dissent and undermine grassroots democracy," he said.

The Congress leader requested the Prime Minister to intervene in the matter and ensure that the orders are withdrawn.

"The people of Lakshadweep deserve a developmental vision that respects their way of life and reflects their aspirations," he added.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Srinagar, May 27 : In a typical Kramer VS Kramer situation in Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), the mayor, Junaid Azim Mattu is battling it out with his joint commissioner planning, Ghulam Hassan Mir.

Mattu sat on protest on Thursday inside SMC premises against his own official at the corporation headed by himself.

The Mayor and his supporters want to oust Mir from SMC. The Mayor has sought removal of Joint Commissioner Planning and his repatriation to Housing and Urban Development Department of the UT.

Commissioner SMC, Athar Amin Khan, last week formed a Task Force of seven officials of the SMC headed by Mir to look into illegal constructions, deviations and conversion of residential buildings into commercial in Srinagar city.

Khan also ordered demolition these structures and recovery of the money lost by such constructions from delinquent SMC officials.

Mir said he demolished several illegal structures that were coming up during lockdown allegedly with the active connivance of some Municipal officials and Corporators. The drive that was started on May 21 will continue till June 6.

Continuing the protest against Mir, Corporators who support Mayor staged a sit-in and raised slogans against 'Afsar Shahi'.

In a letter to Commissioner SMC, Mayor has enclosed a representation signed by 61 Corporators of SMC- has sought enacting of Section 46 (2) and 50 (b) of J&K Municipal Corporation Act 2000, which deal with appointment of Joint Commissioners and functions of the Commissioner respectively.

"The approval of the Corporation for the appointment of Ghulam Hassan Mir, Joint Commissioner (Planning) is hereby rejected by the Corporation under Section 46 (2) of the J&K Municipal Corporation Act 2000," reads the letter.

Mayor has sought appointment of a new JCP and requested Commissioner SMC to immediately relieve Mir of his charge as the Joint Commissioner Planning.
New Delhi, May 27 : As India battles the pandemic and states undergo lockdowns, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has said that the impact and the duration of the second wave of Covid-19 are the biggest threats to its growth estimates for the country for the ongoing financial year.

In its annual report for FY21, the central bank has said that the onset of the second wave has triggered a raft of revisions to growth projections, with the consensus gravitating towards RBI's projection of 10.5 per cent for the year 2021-22.

It had last projected a 26.2 per cent growth in Q1, 8.3 per cent in Q2, 5.4 percent in Q3 and 6.2 per cent in Q4.

The report said: "The pandemic itself, especially the impact and duration of the second wave, is the biggest risk to this outlook." It, however, added that upsides also stem from the capex push by the government, rising capacity utilisation and the turnaround in capital goods imports.

The apex bank observed that for April and early May 2021, available high frequency indicators present a mixed picture.

While mobility and sentiment indicators have moderated, several activity indicators have held their own and shown resilience in the face of the second wave. GST collections crossed the Rs 1 lakh crore mark for the seventh consecutive month in April and notched up the highest level on record, suggesting that manufacturing and services production has been maintained.

On the other hand, e-way bills moderated, pointing to mobility restrictions and possible slackening of GST collections in ensuing months. Slowing down of mobility is also reflected in toll collection volumes during April. In the agricultural sector, work demanded under the MGNREGA has tapered during the month, indicative of increased demand for farm labour.

As regards industrial activity, electricity demand is stable. Transportation remains resilient as reflected in rising freight traffic supported by the pandemic-related surge in demand for essential medical supplies. On the external front, merchandise exports and imports have recorded growth rates of 195.7 per cent and 167.1 per cent in April, partly reflecting low base effect but also pointing to the revival of both external and domestic demand.

The value of total digital transactions has been maintained in April.

Financial conditions have generally remained congenial and supportive of the recovery, it said.
Lagos, May 27 : Gunmen in Nigeria released 53 people after several days in captivity, said a local official.

Zamfara state commissioner of security and home affairs Abubakar Dauran on Wednesday told reporters in the state capital Gusau that the victims were released unhurt through the state government's ongoing peace process, reports Xinhua news agency.

The victims were kidnapped from the Bungudu local government area of the state last week.

"A total of 53 persons who were kidnapped last week were released Monday through the efforts of the repentant bandits and support of the state police command," Dauran told reporters, adding that all of them were in good health and had already reunited with their families.

He called on all sides in the state to continue to comply with the ongoing peace process aimed at achieving lasting stability in the region.

The northern part of Nigeria has witnessed a series of attacks by gunmen in recent months, with many civilians killed or kidnapped.
Chennai, May 27 : Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) leader S. Ramadoss has urged the Tamil Nadu government to make vaccination mandatory to avail the benefits of the welfare schemes of the state.

Ramadoss expressed displeasure at the slow pace of inoculations in the state, which is less than 10 per cent of the total population.

The PMK leader, who is also a medical doctor, said that the reluctance of the people to take vaccine jabs in the rural areas of Tamil Nadu as well as the state government not speeding up the process of vaccinating those above 18 years are the reasons for the low immunisation coverage in the state.

He said the Centre's decision not to raise its vaccine allocation to the state is not justified and added that when the inoculation drive was rolled out, there were lesser number of Covid cases in the state, but now it has turned out to be a grave situation.

Ramadoss urged the state government to create awareness among rural people on the vaccination benefits and to counter any fake information circulating in the rural hinterland.

He added that the second Covid wave is spreading more in villages and rural areas as compared to towns and urban pockets and the reason for this is low vaccination.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Chennai, May 27 : Tamil Nadu Minister for Health and Family Welfare Ma Subramaniam on Thursday said that the state government will recruit 2,100 doctors, 6,000 nurses and 3,700 technical staff to strengthen its fight against Covid-19 as it battled a brutal surge.

He also said that the M.K Stalin government has directed all the district administrations to report on the exact number of deaths due to Covid-19 and not to hide the deaths as this would help in creating proper awareness among the people on the gravity of the disease.

In a media release the government said it will add 500 more oxygenated beds at the Tirunelveli Medical college hospital in addition to the existing 1,600 beds including 940 oxygenated beds.

The statement said that 756 people were affected with mucormycosis (black fungus) infection in the state till Wednesday.

The Union government has sent 600 vials of injection to treat the black fungus, it added.

The 10 member committee constituted by the government to study the spread of mucormycosis will meet on Friday, the statement read.

Tamil Nadu, according to the minister, has already vaccinated 75 lakh people in the state and will continue with the vaccination process to the whole populace.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Chennai, May 27 : The Tamil Nadu chapter of the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) is in for a major vaccination drive for the employees and workers of its member companies. The CII, it is learnt, has already taken the details of around 10 lakh employees of its member companies.

The details of the employees and workers of 1,397 member companies of the CII are being mapped for vaccination which include temporary and outsourced staff.

Vaccination programme of the CII commenced on Wednesday at the Daimler India's commercial vehicle plant at Oragadam. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin inaugurated the vaccination drive at the plant on Wednesday.

The CII is planning to undertake vaccination in the premises of the larger industrial units and smaller member companies nearby this facility can transport their employees and workers to this facility and vaccinate them.

CII, Tamil Nadu Chapter Chairman N. Chandrakumar told IANS: "We are undertaking the vaccination drive for the employees and workers of all member companies but there is a shortage of vaccines and the TN government is trying its best to increase the supply. We are also communicating with our member companies at the national level and are expecting that the situation will ease out by next week."
Melbourne, May 27 : Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Thursday pledged extra vaccines and defence force support for Victoria, country's second-most populous state, which will be placed under a seven-day Covid lockdown from midnight.

The lockdown will be enforced after authorities identified 10,000 primary and secondary contacts linked to a Covid-19 outbreak in the state capital Melbourne's northern suburbs, reports Xinhua news agency.

Responding to the lockdown announcement, Morrison praised the "tremendous job" of contact tracers and promised "every support" available for the state including 130,000 additional vaccine doses.

"The next seven days in Victoria will be very challenging, and of course we are very mindful of the distress and the difficulty that this will impose upon people right across Victoria," he said.

Announcing the restrictions on Thursday, when 12 new local cases were reported, Acting Victorian Premier James Merlino said the lockdown may have been avoided if the national vaccine program was effectively rolled out and specialized quarantine facilities were established for returned international travellers.

Anthony Albanese, leader of the opposition Labor Party, said Victoria "never should have been put in this situation" because the federal government should have fixed quarantine many months ago.

According to Albanese, it was the 17th Covid-19 outbreak linked to hotel quarantine.

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His Excellency Mansoor Abulhoul, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the UK, paid a visit to the University of Readings world-leading weather scientists this week (Tuesday 25 May).

The Ambassador visited the Universitys Department of Meteorology to learn about innovative research into rain and cloud electricity  part of a major UAE-funded project to explore new ways to understand and potentially enhance patterns of rainfall.

Mr Abulhoul was welcomed by Vice-Chancellor Professor Robert Van de Noort and Pro-Vice-Chancellor Paul Inman, before visiting the Department of Meteorology alongside weather scientists Professor Maarten Ambaum and Professor Andrew Charlton-Perez.

Professor Ambaum and colleagues provided a current overview of the rainfall enhancement project being conducted with UAE partners, in which unmanned drones are being tested to deliver electrical charge directly into clouds to influence the conditions that lead to rain.

After seeing laboratory demonstrations of the experimental technology, the Ambassador visited the Universitys Atmospheric Observatory, where measurements of rainfall and other weather observations have been made daily since 1908. Mr Abulhoul helped launch a radiosonde weather balloon, which are used to feed detailed data into the UK Met Office network of weather observations.

Ambassador Mansoor Abulhoul said: My visit to the University of Reading was an inspiring example of the power of collaboration between the UK and UAE. Academic partnerships like these are driving technological breakthroughs with a range of important applications, including fighting the effects of climate change.

Im proud that the UAE is able to support projects at an institution globally recognised for its excellence in climate science. Its moving to think that the rainfall technology I saw today, which is still being developed, may someday support countries in water-scarce environments like the UAE. I look forward to the success of this project and to future partnerships between the Emirates and the University.

Professor Robert Van de Noort, Vice-Chancellor, said: It was a great honour and a pleasure to welcome the Ambassador to the University of Reading this afternoon.

If there is one thing we dont need in Reading now its more rain, as we have experienced one of the wettest Mays on record. But understanding more about how rain forms, and with the potential to bring much-needed relief to arid regions, is an extraordinary scientific achievement.

Of course, our ability to manipulate weather is puny compared to the forces of nature. We are mindful that we as a University have a big role to play, by working with global partners to understand and help prevent the worst effects of climate change.
New Delhi, May 27 : Country's largest power producer NTPC has not only ensured uninterrupted power supply to the country during the second wave of COVID-19, but has also reached out to the society and has made significant efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19 by enhancing medical infrastructure in different parts of the country.

The company came forward and developed more than 600 Oxygen beds and 1,200 isolation beds in its different projects and surroundings on war footing basis in a span of one week which proved to be life saviour for many including the general public. It has also been working in close coordination with the state and district administration and has augmented medical infrastructure even in remote locations.

Amidst the surge in COVID-19 cases specially in Delhi and NCR, NTPC stepped up its efforts and created 200 oxygen supported beds and 140 isolation beds in NCR alone which came as a big relief to Covid patients. This infrastructure in NCR which has been set up at Dadri, Noida and Badarpur has the facility of Oxygen support, COVID testing, invasive and non-invasive ventilators besides 24X7 nursing and medical care. This has been created at a cost of Rs 30 crore.

The power generator has engaged more than 40 doctors, hundreds of paramedical and supporting staff and 7 round the clock Oxygen supported Ambulances to manage this facility.

A 500 bedded hospital at a cost of Rs 400 crore, with state of the art facility constructed by NTPC in Sundragarh, Odisha in a record time has been converted into a COVID hospital during the pandemic which is catering to lakhs of people of that area. Apart from providing various medical equipment, NTPC has augmented the facility by providing 20 ventilators which helped in treating numerous critical patients.

Further, considering the demand of critical care, NTPC is providing additional 40 ventilators to this hospital. NTPC Darlipali is also providing assistance for setting up 30 ICU beds in Jharsuguda.

NTPC has created 250 Oxygen supported beds, 20 HDUs and 10 ICUs in District hospital of Khargone, Madhya Pradesh at a cost of Rs 2.24 crore. This facility at remote locations has come as a boon to the public at large, saving lives of many during the unprecedented Covid surge.

During the ongoing crisis, various NTPC projects have provided more than 2000 Industrial cylinders to district administrations which are being converted and used as Medical Oxygen cylinders. Sensing the expected rise in demand for oxygen, which is the only lifesaving Gas for COVID patients, NTPC is playing a major role in creating infrastructure of Oxygen generation across the country by setting up more than 2 dozens of Oxygen Generation plants with some of them having the facility of bottling and refilling Oxygen cylinders. Out of these, 9 PSA type plants and 2 bottling plants are being set up in NCR only which will start operating from this month itself in phased wise manner.

NTPC has done its best to inoculate its employees, their dependents and other stakeholders across all NTPC plants. Till date, NTPC has vaccinated more than 70,000 people across its operations which include employees, their dependents and community people as well.

NTPC is not only targeting to vaccinate 100 per cent of its employees, family members and associates but also has the plan to vaccinate people living in the surrounding. NTPC Darlipali is procuring 10,000 vaccines for people of its surroundings.

-IANS sn/skp/

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Chennai, May 27 : Tamil Nadu government officials have inspected the hydraulics' plant of Wipro Enterprises P Ltd near here and will submit their report to the Madras High Court, a Union official said.

"Three officials of the Tamil Nadu government's Inspectorate of Factories inspected the plant on Wednesday. They went around the factory, toilets and also checked the incoming and outgoing buses carrying workers. The government will submit its report to the Madras High Court that is hearing a case," P. Thambu Raj, Secretary, United Labour Federation (ULF) told IANS.

The Union has also approached the Madras High Court against the Tamil Nadu government's order that allows certain units to function during the Covid-19 lockdown.

With 95 per cent of the hydraulic cylinders produced supplied for earthmovers and the balance to tractors, the unit cannot be termed as essential services and a continuous process industry, Raj contended.

The ULF has demanded the closure of the hydraulics plant so that the Covid-19 spread could be broken.

According to him, no social distance is being maintained at the factory and full worker strength has been deployed in shifts though the number of shifts has been reduced from three to two.

Raj said workers at the factory come from Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram and Chennai where the Covid-19 infection rates are high.

According to him, one deceased worker had put in 12 years of service and has old parents, but the company is silent on financial assistance to them.

"During last year's Covid-19 lockdown (between March 23, 2020 and May 7, 2020) the factory was shut down. Now the situation is far more serious requiring a stricter lockdown," Raj said.

Part of the Wipro Group, Wipro Enterprises has broadly two divisions -- Wipro Consumer Care and Lighting and Wipro Infrastructure Engineering under which the hydraulics manufacturing comes.

According to the company, it is one of the largest independent hydraulic cylinder manufacturers in the world delivering over a million cylinders to original equipment manufacturers (OEM) of earthmovers, material and cargo handling machinery, forestry, farm and agriculture equipment and in the fields of mining and truck tipping.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, May 27 : The manufacturing of Russia's Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine will start soon in India as the country has accomplished technology-transfer to Indian companies, said Dr Vinod K. Paul, chair of the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for Covid-19 (NEGVAC) on Thursday.

Paul made the announcement while clearing the myth that the Centre is not doing enough to buy vaccines from abroad.

Paul said the Central government has also proactively eased entry of vaccines approved by the US FDA, EMA, UK's MHRA and Japan's PMDA, and WHO's Emergency Use Listing into India in April.

He said these vaccines will not need to undergo prior bridging trials as the provision has now been further amended to waive off the trial requirement altogether for the well-established vaccines manufactured in other countries.

"No application of any foreign manufacturer for approval is pending with the drugs controller," Paul, Member (Health) in NITI Aayog, further said.

Paul said that Sputnik vaccine trials got accelerated and with timely approval, Russia has already sent two tranches of vaccines and "accomplished tech-transfer to our companies that would start manufacturing very soon".

The declaration comes after the developers of Russia's Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine and Panacea Biotec on Monday announced that full-scale production of the doses in India will start this summer.

The Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), or Russia's sovereign wealth fund, has tied up with Indian pharmaceutical firms such as Gland Pharma, Hetero Biopharma, Panacea Biotec, Stelis Biopharma and Virchow Biotech to make more than 850 million doses a year.

Sputnik V has been granted approval for emergency use by India's drug controller. The Russian vaccine was registered in India under the emergency use authorisation procedure on April 12 and use of the Russian vaccine started on May 14.

RDIF and Panacea Biotec have agreed to produce 100 million doses a year of Sputnik V.

Sputnik V has so far been registered in 66 countries with a total population of more than 3.2 billion. RDIF and Gamaleya Center have said the efficacy of Sputnik V is 97.6 per cent, based on analysis of data on coronavirus infection rate among those vaccinated in Russia with both doses of Sputnik V from December 5 last year to March 31 this year.

Paul elaborated that the Central government has continuously remained engaged with all the major international vaccine manufacturers right from mid-2020 and multiple rounds of discussions have happened with Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson and Moderna.

"We reiterate our request to all international vaccine makers to come and make in India, for India and for the world," Paul said, adding "we need to understand that buying vaccines internationally is not similar to buying 'off the shelf' items".

"The government offered all assistance to have them supply and or manufacture their vaccines in India. However, it is not that their vaccines are available in free supply." Paul later clarified those vaccines are in limited supply globally, and companies have their own priorities, game-plans and compulsions in allocating finite stocks.

"They also give preference to countries of their origin just as our own vaccine makers have done unhesitatingly for us," said Paul, adding as soon as Pfizer indicated vaccine availability, the central government and the company are working together for the earliest possible import of the vaccine.

Paul said the Central government has proactively eased entry of vaccines approved by the US FDA, EMA, UK's MHRA and Japan's PMDA, and WHO's Emergency Use Listing into India in April.

"These vaccines will not need to undergo prior bridging trials. The provision has now been further amended to waive off the trial requirement altogether for the well-established vaccines manufactured in other countries. No application of any foreign manufacturer for approval is pending with the drugs controller."

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Chennai, May 27 : The Tamil Nadu government has proposed to take on lease HLL Biotech Ltd's integrated vaccine complex (IVC) near Chennai without past liabilities to run it with a private party.

In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has said that the assets of the vaccine complex be handed over to the state government on lease with full operational freedom and without past liabilities.

"The state government will identify a suitable private partner immediately and will make all efforts to commence vaccine production at the earliest," Stalin told Modi.

According to Stalin, suitable financial arrangement for Central government to recover part of its investment can be subsequently worked out, after commencement of operations at the plant.

Stalin said the high capacity vaccine production unit is lying unutilized.

"The government of India has already invested around Rs 700 crore in this manufacturing facility, which is almost complete but has been lying unutilized for want of additional funds," Stalin said.

"The recent attempt to find a private partner to run the IVC has also not borne fruit, as there were no bidders for it," Stalin pointed out to Modi.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, May 27 : Chinas ascendancy in the UN seems almost unquestioned. A study by Gateway House has traced Chinas expanding influence in the world body, its related bodies, and influential non-UN multilateral bodies.

The research was conducted over four months in 2020-21, studying the most important multilateral agencies in the world including UN agencies, funds and programmes, as well as non-UN security, finance, and scientific agencies.

The findings revealed that China is in a dominant position in several critical multilateral bodies, in both personnel and funding.

The most prominent are the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), the UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

The links are obvious. ITU sets global telecommunications standards, where China's Huawei is a major player. UNIDO was formed to encourage industrialisation in the developing world but its importance has waned as countries found it unhelpful, leaving China in charge.

China immediately connected UNIDO to its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which UNIDO now endorses.

China's positioning at ICAO, which sets air navigation and safety standards, ensured that during the pandemic, Taiwan was excluded from all discussions, just as it was with the World Health Organization (WHO), over which China has a disproportionate influence.

In October 2020, with the world writhing under the pain of Covid-19, the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) held triennial elections to select 15 new members.

Despite its abysmal human rights record, and the human and economic devastation inflicted by Covid globally, China was elected as a member with the lowest number of votes. Now here it stands, with a sheen of credibility provided by the UN, the study said.

Then on May 4, China was further embedded into the UN system. China's Vice Minister in the Ministry of Commerce, Xiangchen Zhang, was appointed as one of four new Deputy Directors-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) along with the US, France, and Costa Rica.

India's candidate lost.

While the world was preoccupied with opening the Chinese internal market, China spent years preparing to dominate and leave its mark on the external global system. In fact, it has been part of China's global agenda since 1992, the study said.

By 1997, China was a member of 20 per cent of multilateral organisations, up from 12 per cent in 1989, and by 2002, started to create new ones, like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Over the last two decades, ever since it entered the WTO in 2001, China has set out to influence the global multilateral system.

The participation has grown more sophisticated over the years. China has carefully chosen clusters of agencies to lead, whose work can be interwoven with and are interlinked to its own domestic agendas like 'Made in China 2025', and the rise of Chinese companies. The multilateral agenda includes creating new global standards for technology, which can be led by China and its national corporate champions.

These in turn, are linked to China's foreign policy strategy led by the Belt and Road Initiative, which has its own expansion plans - the Digital Silk Road, Space Silk Road, and the Health Silk Road. The expanding influence is enabled by China's increased monetary contribution to the UN, both mandatory as a UN member, and increasingly, voluntary donations. According to this study, these have risen by 1096 per cent and 346 per cent respectively from 2010 to 2019.6 The study found that China is present either as the head or a deputy position in almost all the critical international agencies.

China directly heads four of the 15 principal agencies of the UN - FAO, UNIDO, ITU, ICAO.

Chinese deputies are present in nine of the 15 agencies - World Bank, International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), International Monetary Fund (IMF), IMO, UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), WHO and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

The study said China influences UN agencies through its proxies. The current Director-General of the WHO, Tedros Adhenoum Ghebreysus was elected with China's support in 2017. He is the former health and foreign minister of Ethiopia, which is one of the largest recipients of Chinese investments in Africa.

The WHO was previously headed for 10 years by Margaret Chan, from Hong Kong. The WHO's delayed warnings and travel restrictions regarding the pandemic in China, is a globally devastating outcome borne of China's influence.

The study said China also has a network of its nationals, who are career professionals or diplomats, at the lower rungs of the UN system. These officers, who have entered the UN system laterally, or through the Junior Professional Officer (JPO) programme, are supposed to be impartial but may not be.

Some agencies are still firmly in the grip of the Western powers. For instance, the World Bank is with the US, the IMF is with the EU, the Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is with the UK, and the Department of Peacekeeping Operations is with France. China has been rising here too - it has its people in senior positions at financial institutions, eg: Shaolin Yang at the World Bank and Tao Zhang at the IMF.

In institutions where China occupies no position, such as the International Labour Organization (ILO), Universal Postal Union (UPU), UN Development Programme (UNDP), and UN Habitat, it has signed Memorandums of Understanding between those UN agencies and its Belt and Road Initiative through relevant domestic ministries, often leveraging its capacity for voluntary funding.

Thus in effect, China's foreign policy agenda gets endorsed and co-promoted by the UN.

In mandatory contributions, at 12 per cent of the total, China is the second largest donor. Its voluntary donations have also been increasing, from $51 million in 2010 to $172 million in 2019, a 346 per cent rise in nine years. Combined, China becomes the fifth largest donor to the UN. This has implications. The study shows that where China is not leading an organisation, it almost certainly makes voluntary contributions. The voluntary contributions enable the UN's funds and programmes agencies to run their special projects, as only administrative, daily expenses are covered by the UN's core budget, the study said.

So, when China makes a $7.5 million contribution to the UNDP, it can influence the way development projects are implemented. China is increasingly involved with the UN's Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPO) through a recent $1 billion pledge to the UN Peace and Development Fund - as the largest donor. This is viewed by some as a way for China to keep an eye on its investments in Africa.

Finally, even if Chinese nationals, its government or its ministries are not prominent in the UN, its state-owned companies are. The International Seabed Authority, which is "mandated under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea to organise, regulate and control all mineral-related activities in the international seabed area for the benefit of mankind as a whole" has awarded five contracts to Chinese companies for deep sea mining of polymetallic nodules, sulphides, and cobalt rich ferromanganese crusts, the study said.

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Dharamsala, May 27 Ians) : The democratically elected new political head of the Tibetan people, Penpa Tsering, globally known as Prime Minister-in-exile, on Thursday pledged to carry out the responsibility of finding a lasting solution to the decades old Sino-Tibet conflict, besides taking care of the Tibetan people.

In a message after taking oath of office here, which was virtually attended by Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, Tsering, who holds a long and distinguished career in public service and a deep understanding on the changing dynamics of situation in Tibet and China, said the main responsibility of his Cabinet is to seek relief from the critical challenges being faced by endangered Tibet and suffering of the Tibetan people.

Toeing the path adopted by the Dalai Lama for years to resolve the issue of Tibet with China through the "'middle-way approach", Tsering said, "We shall resolutely tread the path of middle-way espoused by His Holiness the Dalai Lama that commands high degree of support by general population in and outside Tibet." "We will reach out to the Chinese government to find a mutually beneficial, negotiated, non-violent solution to the Sino-Tibet conflict. We hope that this in turn shall set a good example in resolving conflicts around the world," the former speaker of the Parliament-in-exile said.

The "middle-way approach" neither seeks separation from the People's Republic of China nor a high degree of autonomy but genuine autonomy for all Tibetan people under a single administration in Tibet.

On resolving the issue of Tibet with China by the CTA, he said: "Till such a lasting solution is found, we shall represent the voices of Tibetans inside Tibet and by pooling the resource of every single Tibetan, optimise our global advocacy efforts.

"Likewise, we will put in every effort to seek increased interaction between Tibetans in Tibet and those in exile and work towards realising the wish of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to visit China." Since the early 1970s, the CTA has pursued dialogue with the Chinese government based on the "middle-way approach".

Responding to the Chinese government's white paper titled 'Tibet since 1951, liberation, development and prosperity' released on May 21, Tsering said, "We are open to sending a people to verify all the claims made in the white paper." Saying that his Cabinet will give due importance to the experience of the civil servants, he said his priority would be mainly working on resolving the Sino-Tibet conflict, reaching out to governments and building closer relations between the administration and the public.

"With this in view, from today onwards, we will take a new step in opening a new chapter in the course of struggle," he said.

On the coronavirus pandemic, the CTA President, who was greeted by US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi two days ago on his victory in the general elections that saw participation of 77 per cent of the electorates, said one of the first tasks of the administration would be to look into what more can be done to contain the spread of the virus within the Tibetan Communities in India and Nepal.

With the enactment of the Tibetan Policy and Support Act 2020 in December last year, the US government became the first government try to formally acknowledge the CTA as the legitimate institution reflecting the aspirations of the Tibetan diaspora around the world.

Expressing gratitude to all freedom-loving governments, parliaments and Tibet supporters around the world, especially India and the US, he said, "Your support is a source of inspiration for all of us in Tibet and in exile. Therefore, I appeal to you to continue to support us till a lasting solution is found." Praying that His Holiness live very long, an optimistic Tsering, 53, added, "May a day arise when the Tibetans in Tibet and in exile rejoice in reunion." The Dalai Lama has been living in India since fleeing his homeland in 1959. The government-in-exile is based in this northern hill town of Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh.

(Vishal Gulati can be reached at vishal.g@ians.in)
New Delhi, May 27 : The Central government on Thursday announced that Covid-19 vaccine trials on children in the country would begin soon.

Member (Health) in NITI Aayog and the chair of National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for Covid-19 (NEGVAC), Dr Vinod K. Paul, made the announcement on behalf of the government while clearing several myths on India's Covid-19 vaccination programme doing the rounds.

Clarifying one such myth that "Centre is not taking any step to vaccinate children", Paul said: "As of now, no country in the world is giving vaccines to children. Also, WHO has no recommendation on vaccinating children." Paul, however, said that there have been studies about safety of vaccines in children, which have been encouraging.

"Trials in children in India are also going to begin soon. However, vaccinating children should not be decided on the basis of panic in WhatsApp groups and because some politicians want to play politics," Paul said.

Paul further said that the decision in this regard is taken by our scientists after adequate data is available based on trials.

He also made it clear that the Centre is allotting enough vaccines to the states in a transparent manner as per agreed guidelines and they are also being informed in advance of the vaccine availability.

Paul also announced that Vaccine availability is going to increase in near future and much more supply would be possible.

"In the non-Government of India channel, states are getting 25 per cent of the doses and private hospitals are getting 25 per cent doses. However, the hiccups and issues faced by the people in the administration of these 25 per cent doses by the states leave a lot to be desired. The behaviour of some of our leaders, who in spite of full knowledge of the facts on vaccine supply, appear on TV daily and create panic among the people is very unfortunate. This is not the time to play politics. We need everyone to unite in this fight." He also said that three other companies will start production of Covaxin apart from enhancing Bharat Biotech's own plants, which have increased from 1 to 4.

"Covaxin production by Bharat Biotech is being increased from under 1 crore per month to 10 crore month by October." Additionally, the three PSUs will together aim to produce up to 4 crore doses by December.

With constant encouragement of the government, Serum Institute is ramping up Covishield production of 6.5 crore doses per month to 11.0 crore doses per month, Paul said.

"The Government is also ensuring in partnership with Russia that Sputnik will be manufactured by six companies coordinated by Dr Reddy's. The Union Government is supporting efforts of Zydus Cadila, BioE as well Gennova for their respective indigenous vaccines through liberal funding under Covid Suraksha scheme as also the technical support at national laboratories." Paul said that development of Bharat Biotech's single dose intranasal vaccine is proceeding well with Central government funding, and it could be a game-changer for the world.

The estimate of production of over 200 crore doses by our vaccine industry by the end of 2021 is the result of such efforts and unstinted support and partnership.

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-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Kabul, May 27 : A German development agency intends to continue working in Afghanistan even after international troops are withdrawn, a spokesperson for the firm said on Thursday.

The German Corporation for International Cooperation (GIZ) can work in Afghanistan "even under difficult conditions" dpa news agency quoted the spokesperson as saying.

About 1,000 people from Afghanistan work for the GIZ, which implements development projects on behalf of the German government.

The spokesperson said that the agency was not active in regions controlled by the Taliban and underlined that security was top priority, with a risk management system in place for years.

The German Ministry responsible for economic cooperation and development said that it has not been able to identify a significant increase in notifications of danger from local staff.

Local staff have the ability to apply for admission to Germany if their work puts them at risk.

According to the ministry, 42 staff members of German development organisations and their immediate family members have received visas to enter Germany since 2013.

Afghanistan is in a state of uncertainty after US President Joe Biden announced that American troops will pull out from the country by September 11, 2021 after almost 20 years.

NATO agreed to follow suit.

According to a US non-governmental organization, 300 local staff for the US or their family were killed in Afghanistan in recent years.

They are targeted by the Taliban for cooperating with the West.
New Delhi, May 27 : Video conferencing platform Zoom on Thursday announced that it has unveiled two new features on Apple's latest iPad Pro models -- support for Apple's Center Stage and expanded Gallery View.

The new features will help users better participate in calls, potentially stave off video fatigue, and better connect over Zoom, the company said in a statement.

Center Stage, new to Apple's 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models, uses the ultrawide front camera and Machine Learning (ML) to keep users in the frame as they move, allowing them to go hands-free or move about during a video call.

With support for Center Stage, users can participate more naturally in Zoom video calls, the company said.

They do not have to worry whether they're out of frame during a workout, teaching a class or celebrating with friends and family over Zoom, it added.

Center Stage support is currently only available on Zoom 5.6.6, scheduled to hit the App Store this week, or later on the 11-inch (third generation) and the 12.9-inch (fifth generation) 2021 iPad Pro.

The company has expanded Gallery View across all iPad models, but those using Zoom on the 12.9-inch iPad Pro can see even more of their fellow meeting participants.

Previous iPad models can display up to 25 video tiles in Gallery View, but those using Zoom on the 12.9-inch iPad Pro can now see up to 48 video tiles (6A-8 in Landscape Mode), allowing them to better connect in large meetings.

Many iPad models are also getting expanded Gallery View and those users will see a few additional participants on a single screen, depending on the device, the company said.

To bring more or fewer people into view on any iPad, simply pinch the display with two fingers to zoom in and out.

Previous and new iPad models will get expanded Gallery View based on the display size; the ability to see 48 tiles in Gallery View is currently only available on the 12.9-inch 2021 iPad Pro.
Amaravati, May 27 : The Andhra Pradesh government has decided to postpone the tenth standard state board exams, on account of the Covid second wave.

The decision follows a review meeting on Thursday that chief minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy had with education department officials.

With partial curfew imposed in the state since May 5 on account of the pandemic, and several schools functioning as Covid isolation centres, the state's education department had suggested the examinations, scheduled to begin from June 7, be deferred, officials said.

Despite pressure from several sections of society, and opposition parties, particularly Telugu Desam Party, to cancel the examinations and promote all students, the state government has remained firm on holding the board examinations.

During the High Court hearing, Thursday, on a petition seeking deferment of the state board exams till such a time when teachers are vaccinated, the state government submitted that it is postponing the exams and will decide upon the issue, after reviewing the situation in the month of July.

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Windhoek, May 27 : The President of Namibia, Hage Geingob, has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, his office said on Thursday.

The 79-year-old leader is now in isolation, along with his wife, the office said on Twitter, adding that they were "in good spirits", reports dpa news agency.

Also taking to the micro-blogging platform, the President said: "I thank you all for the kind well-wishes after our positive Covid-19 test. I vainly tried to thank you individually until my finger got tired from typing.

"@FirstLadyNam and I are holding on well and your outpouring of support for our recovery is truly appreciated. God Bless You." To date, Namibia has recorded 53,603 confirmed Covid cases and 789 death.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Colombo, May 27 : Sri Lankan authorities fear a possible oil spill from a Singaporean container ship on fire off the country's western coast as the upper deck of the vessel was completely destroyed, officials said on Thursday.

The fire, which broke out on May 20 on the MV X-Press Pearl, was beyond control and spreading inside the vessel anchored 10 nautical miles off the main Colombo port, reports dpa news aency.

Firefighters are trying to control the fire around the engine room and prevent an oil spill, as the vessel has nearly 300 tonnes of fuel in its tank, navy spokesman Indika Silva said.

But Sri Lankan authorities, including the Marine Environmental Protection Authority (MEPA), were preparing to mitigate damage in the event of an oil spill.

"There is a possibility of an explosion occurring in the ship as the fire continues. We have put in place oil spill management plans to control damage from an oil spill," MEPA general manager Turney Pradeep Kumara said.

Debris and chemicals have already fallen into the sea and washed ashore in areas up to 20 nautical miles away from the container ship.

Residents have been strictly warned not to collect items washed ashore, but many of them ignored the warnings and were seen collecting the items.

The vessel, registered under the Singaporean flag, was en route from the Indian port of Hazira to Singapore, via Colombo, with 1,486 containers, most of them carrying chemicals, including 25 tonnes of nitric acid.

On Tuesday, the Sri Lanka Navy said it had rescued 25 crew members from the cargo ship.

Two injured Indians among the rescued had been hospitalised for treatment, according to the Navy.

The distressed container ship had a crew who are Philippine, Chinese, Indian and Russian nationals.
Panaji, May 27 : The Bombay High Court bench in Goa on Thursday directed the Additional District and Sessions Court in North Goa to rewrite references which revealed the identity of sexual assault victim.

In its 527 page order the sessions court on May 21 acquitted former Tehelka editor-in-chief Tarun Tejpal from charges of rape levelled against him by a junior colleague in 2013.

The High Court's single bench of Justice SC Gupte said that the alterations to the judgement should be made in three days, before the order is uploaded to the court's online portal for public viewing.

Justice Gupte's order came after Solicitor General Tushar Mehta pointed out that the order by the Additional District and Sessions judge Kshama Joshi contained references to the victim's husband, her email and her mother's name in paragraphs 55,177 and 182 of the judgement.

"In the interest of protecting the identity of the victim of an offence, such as the one with which we are concerned in the present case, it is appropriate to have the above references to be found in paragraphs 55, 177 and 182 of the impugned judgment redacted," the Court said in its order.

"The trial Court is accordingly directed to redact the above references, as also other similar references, wherever found in the order, whilst uploading the impugned judgment," the Court also said.

Speaking to reporters Assistant Solicitor General Pravin Faldessai said that the "judgement is not proper" and had "glaring irregularities".

"There is no question of why the state has filed the appeal. We find that the judgement of the Additional Sessions Court is wrong. The acquittal is not made on the proper prospects of law. So the state is right in filing an appeal..." Faldessai said.

The Court is now expected to hear the state government's appeal against the acquittal granted to Tejpal on June 2.

Inexplicable normalcy of the victim, post twin alleged sexual assaults, shoddy police investigation and an 'outright lie' in her deposition were some the reasons which may have led to the acquittal of Tejpal courtesy "benefit of doubt", according to the judgement by the Goa Court.

Judge Joshi in her judgment had also underlined "glaring contradictions" in the statements of the victim, her mother and brother, as well as in the statement made by the victim in context of the CCTV footage of the hotel where the alleged crime occurred in November 2013.

Tejpal was charged against under sections 376 (rape), 341 (wrongful restraint), 342 (wrongful confinement) 354A (sexual harassment) and 354B (criminal assault), of the Indian Penal Code.

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
Mumbai, May 27 : The Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) has donated 34 ventilators worth Rs 4 crore to the Maharashtra government for use by Covid-19 patients in the current pandemic second wave, an official said here on Thursday.

These include ventilators worth Rs 1.50-crore to BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) hospitals in Mumbai, over Rs 1-crore worth ventilators to Pune Municipal Corporation, two of the worst hotspots.

The rest have been sent to government hospitals in Chiplun in Ratnagiri and Nashik, where the HUL has its factories.

Earlier, the HUL had donated 29 ventilators worth Rs 3 crores to government hospitals in the state in a bid to augment the medical infrastructure in the state, said the company Managing Director Sanjiv Mehta.

Earlier this month, Mehta said the HUL has airlifted over 5,000 oxygen concentrators to India through partnerships with KVN Foundation and Portea which helped Covid-19 patients get medical oxygen directly to their homes, reducing the pressure on the public health system.

Last year, HUL committed Rs 100-crore to support communities impacted by the pandemic with foodkits distributed to over 100,000 migrants and their families for 15 days, providing 20 million soaps to help hygiene among people all over India and tied up with various groups to arrange isolation with medical facilities, etc, and awareness campaigns reaching some 600 million people in the past 15 months.

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Mumbai, May 27 : Bollywood superstar Salman Khan's legal team issued a statement on Thursday divulging the actual reason why the actor has filed a suit against actor-turned-film critic Kamaal R Khan, who calls himself KRK.

The suit was filed because Kamaal R. Khan "has been publishing and endorsing defamatory allegations, including that Mr. Salman Khan is corrupt, that he and his brand 'Being Human' are involved in fraud, manipulation and money laundering transactions, that he and Salman Khan Films are dacoits," DSK Legal, the legal team representing Salman, said.

The statement reads: "Mr. Kamaal R Khan, the Defendant, has put out a series of tweets and videos alleging that Mr. Salman Khan has sued him for defamation because the Defendant reviewed the film, Radhe. This is incorrect. The suit has been filed as the Defendant has been publishing and endorsing defamatory allegations, including that Mr. Salman Khan is corrupt, that he and his brand 'Being Human' are involved in fraud, manipulation and money laundering transactions, that he and Salman Khan Films are dacoits. The Defendant has been spreading malicious falsehoods and defaming Mr. Salman Khan consistently over several months, clearly with a view to draw attention to himself." "Mr. Kamaal R. Khan's lawyer made a statement in Court today that Mr. Kamaal R. Khan 'will not put any remarks of defamatory nature against plaintiff on social media till next date'. The Hon'ble Court has been pleased to pass an order taking into account this statement made by Mr. Kamaal R. Khan's lawyer," the statement adds.

The statement comes a day after KRK tweeted alleging that Salman Khan has filed a defamation case against him because the actor is getting affected by KRK's review of his latest film "Radhe: Your Most Wanted Bhai".

"I said so many times that I never review film of any producer, actor if he asks me to not review. Salman Khan filed defamation case on me for review of #Radhe means he is getting too much affected by my review. Hence, I won't review his films anymore. My last video releasing today," KRK had tweeted on Wednesday.
New Delhi, May 27 : Concerning demand for vegan food and beverages, PETA India called on Amul, an Indian dairy cooperative society, to realise which way the wind is blowing and switch to producing the creamy dairy-free milk that today's consumers want.

In the letter to Amul Managing Director R.S. Sodhi, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India said "we would again like to encourage Amul to benefit from the booming vegan food and milk market, instead of wasting resources trying to fight the demand for plant-based products that is only growing. Other companies are responding to market changes, and Amul can, too".

Pointing out that the demand for vegan food and beverages is so great that a report by Grand View Research revealed that the global dairy alternatives market is estimated to reach $52.58 billion by 2028, PETA India Vegan Outreach Coordinator Dr Kiran Ahuja said: "Much of the world - and that certainly includes India - has turned sour towards dairy over animal welfare, environmental, and health concerns." "PETA India is calling on Amul to realise which way the wind is blowing and switch to producing the creamy dairy-free milk that today's consumers want." In India, most people would be astonished to learn that the dairy sector is the primary supplier of cattle to the beef industry and that most family farms are now gone, PETA India said.

Today, the group said, most cows and buffaloes used for dairy are raised in a factory environment and artificially inseminated and their calves are typically stolen from them shortly after birth so that the milk nature intended for them to drink can be consumed by humans instead.

"You've seen them on the street: male calves who are of no value to the dairy business, cast out to starve. Others are sold to be killed for their flesh and skin, while females are sentenced to the same fate as their mothers: they're used as milk machines until their bodies give out, at which point many are abandoned or slaughtered for cheap meat." Such is the dairy industry's panic that the National Cooperative Dairy Federation of India has made a plea in the High Court of Delhi that only animal milk be permitted to be called "milk", PETA India said.

However, in a 2018 article, the Smithsonian Magazine explains that referring to plant-based milks as milk, such as coconut milk, dates back centuries and is consistent across countries. In vernacular terminology, it is referred to as badam ka doodh and nariyal ka doodh.

PETA India - whose motto reads, in part, that "animals are not ours to eat" and which opposes a human-supremacist world view - notes that major dairy companies around the world - including Nestle, Epigamia, Chobani, Danone, and Yoplait - are now investing in non-dairy options.

It also said analysts at the British financial services company Barclays predict that the vegan food and drink market could increase by more than 1,000 per cent by the end of the decade, and a 2019 article on a website run by Franchise India Holdings Limited found that the number of vegans in India has risen by 360 per cent in the past decade.
New Delhi, May 27 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a chargesheet against Anumula Revanth Reddy, MP from Malkajgiri parliamentary constituency, Sandra Venkata Veeraiah, Telugu Desam Party MLA from the Sathupally assembly constituency, Bishop Harry Sebastian, Rudra Sivakumar Uday Simha, Mathaiah Jerusalem and Vem Krishna Keerthan in the 'cash for vote' scam.

An ED official said that it has filed the chargesheet against six persons before a Special Court in Hyderabad.

The ED registered a case on the basis of the FIR registered by the Telangana Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) against Reddy and others.

The official said the ACB laid a trap while a bribe payment of Rs 50 lakh in cash was being made to Elvis Stephenson, a nominated MLA representing the Anglo Indian community in the Telangana Assembly to lure him to either abstain from voting or to vote in favour of the TDP candidate, Vem Narendra Reddy, in the MLC (Member of Legislative Council) election, which was to be held on June 1, 2015.

The ACB had arrested the accused, who was caught during their 'trap proceedings', and filed a chargesheet after investigation.

The official said the ED had recorded the statements of the accused including that of Reddy, Harry Sebastian, Rudra Uday Simha who were involved in the actual handing over of the bribe amount of Rs 50 lakh to Stephenson.

"They were also confronted with the available audio-visual recordings of the encounters," he said.

The official said the ED probe established that Reddy, Sandra Venkata Veeraiah and others had conspired to bribe Stephenson for securing his vote in favour of Vem Narender Reddy, a candidate proposed by the Telugu Desam Party in the MLC election.

The financial probe agency official said that the accused had contacted Stephenson and offered him a bribe of Rs 5 crore.

"Stephenson made a complaint to the ACB police and a trap was laid and his encounters with the accused were secretly audio-video recorded," he said.

The official claimed that the accused persons met the complainant at his house on May 30, 2015 and made the bribe offer.

A day later Reddy, R Harry Sebastian and Rudra Uday Simha came at the house of Malcolm Taylor, a friend of Stephenson to hand over the advance bribe amount of Rs 50 lakh in cash and were trapped by the ACB Police and taken into custody along with the seized cash.

The official said that the cash was handed over to the accused by Vem Krishna Keerthan, son of Vem Narendra Reddy to help his father in the election.

The ED had earlier attached the bribe amount of Rs 50 lakh cash, seized by the Telangana ACB under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

"ED investigation has established that the accused persons committed the scheduled offence as well as the offence of money laundering by dealing with the bribe money which is nothing but proceeds of crime as per PMLA. Thus, ED has filed a prosecution complaint against the above named accused persons with a prayer to hold trial for the offence of money laundering," he added.
New Delhi, May 27 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to visit Odisha and West Bengal on Friday to review the impact of Cyclone Yaas, which has now weakened into a "deep depression".

Sources said that the Prime Minister will first land in Bhubaneswar where he will hold a review meeting.

Later, he will proceed for an aerial survey of the affected areas of Odisha's Balsore, and Bhadrak, and West Bengal's East Medinipur.

The Prime Minister has also planned to hold a review meeting in West Bengal.

Yaas, which made landfall between Dhamra and Balasore in Odisha on early Wednesday, lay centred at 11.30 p.m. on May 26 over south Jharkhand and adjoining north interior Odisha near latitude 22.4 degree north and longitude 85.8 degree east, about 60 km west-southwest of Jamshedpur and 110 km south south-east of Ranchi in Jharkhand, said the National Weather Forecasting Centre of the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The cyclone is very likely to move further northwestwards and weaken gradually into a depression during next 12 hours.

As per the IMD's 2.30 a.m. report, the last hourly bulletin regarding 'Yaas', the cyclone had intensified near the centre with windspeeds of about 55-65 kmph gusting to 75 kmph.

It moved north-northwestwards with a speed of about 13 kmph during past six hours.

As per the IMD forecast, the wind speed of the storm will decrease gradually becoming 40-50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph during three hours over south Jharkhand and adjoining north Odisha.

The storm is bringing in light to moderate rainfall at most places in Odisha with heavy to very heavy rains at a few places over north interior areas of the state during next 12 hours.

In West Bengal, light to moderate rainfall is likely at most places with heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over Medinipur, Jhargram, Bankura is likely during next 12 hours.

Light to moderate rainfall at most places with heavy to very heavy rainfall and extremely heavy falls at isolated places in Jharkhand is expected during next 24 hours.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Mumbai, May 27 : Actor Tahir Raj Bhasin on Thursday posted a string of pictures getting his first vaccine shot for Covid-19. He got the jab in Manali, where he was shooting for an upcoming assignment.

Tahir posted the images from the vaccination centre on Instagram. In one photo, he is seen getting his shot, while other frames capture him waiting outside the vaccination centre, as well as snapshots of the centre itself.

"I waited accompanied by the smell of surrounding pine wood at a makeshift primary health centre in Jagatsukh, a tiny village one hour outside of Manali, (which is where I was shooting when lockdowns were announced and have been since). At 11:01, I finally managed to get my first Covishield jab," Tahir wrote.

He added: "Thank you to the scientific minds who have made this possible and to health care workers on duty in the remotest of districts to make sure we have a shot at a better, safer tomorrow." The actor will be seen in the films "Looop Lapeta" and "83", as well as the web series "Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein".

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Mumbai, May 27 : Star comedian Kapil Sharma and actress Bhumi Pednekar have teamed up to provide oxygen supply for people in Karnataka, through Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's Mission Zindagi initiative.

The initiative will work at stationing oxygen buses outside Covid hospitals in Hoskote, Devanahalli, Doddaballapur, Nelamangala 1 and Nelamangala 2 to help those in need.

"Our country is currently witnessing the second wave of this deadly virus, which has now penetrated rural India. With so many cases coming from smaller towns and villages where medical assistance and aid might be limited, the need of the hour is to provide oxygen to the patients," Bhumi said.

Kapil added: "As Humans, we have to support each other right now. I'm also doing my bit. It is my honour to associate with the extraordinary work that Gurudev and Bharatiya Jain Sanghatana are doing. With Bhumi, who is doing exemplary work towards COVID relief, this initiative with Mobile oxygen Buses, we have now started supporting people in Karnataka & planning to take this to more states as well." Bhumi shared the buses installed with oxygen concentrators would provide tertiary care to patients outside district hospital emergencies as they waited for a bed.

"Our buses will help share the load of hospitals in smaller towns where the cases are now rising. I'm glad we collaborated with Kapil on this leg of the mission as he is well loved by many," she said"

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, May 27 : After India crossed the 20-crore vaccination mark in 130 days, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said that more than 22 crore vaccine doses have been provided to States/UTs and about 1.84 crore doses were still available with the States/UTs to be administered.

The Government of India has so far provided, both through the free of cost category and through direct state procurement category, 22,16,11,940 doses to States/UTs.

Of this, the total consumption, including wastages is 20,17,59,768 doses (as per data available at 8 a.m. Thursday).

Covid Vaccine doses to the tune of 1,84,90,522 were still available with the States/UTs to be administered, the government cleared in its data amid various attacks on social media on its vaccine policy.

A total of 11,42,630 vaccine doses were in the pipeline and would be received by the States/UTs within the next three days.

As part of the nationwide vaccination drive, the central government has been supporting the States and UTs by providing them COVID Vaccines free of cost. In addition, it has also been facilitating direct procurement of vaccines by the States/UTs.

Vaccination is an integral pillar of the comprehensive strategy of Government of India for containment and management of the pandemic, along with Test, Track, Treat and COVID Appropriate Behaviour.

Implementation of the Liberalized and Accelerated Phase-3 Strategy of Covid-19 Vaccination started from May 1.

Under the Strategy, every month 50 per cent of the total Central Drugs Laboratory (CDL) cleared vaccine doses of any manufacturer is procured by Govt. of India. It continues to make these doses available to the state governments totally free of cost as was being done earlier.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Chennai, May 27 : The residents of Chennai who are buying Metrowater without online booking are liable for punishment. Metrowater has now added a new clause in its contract stating that the consumer who buys water without booking will also face action along with the owner and driver of the vehicle that delivered Metrowater.

Several Resident Associations in Chennai had complained that the drivers of the Metrowater tankers colluded with certain people and violated the rules. This had led to frictions between the consumer who subverted the water supply by influencing the driver and owner of the tanker and Resident Associations.

Ajamanikyam, an office bearer of Ashok Nagar Resident Association told IANS, "The decision of the Metrowater to charge consumers who buy water without online booking is welcome as people who are smart enough to influence the driver of the tanker get water out of turn and there was an urgent need to stop this. With the consumers also being included under Section 379 of IPC, this will reduce violation drastically. We welcome the decision wholeheartedly." If any water tanker is found engaged in unauthorized supply a minimum fine of Rs 20,000 will be levied and all trips of that day will be cancelled. Other than this the vehicles will be booked under IPC Section 379 against the owner and driver of the vehicle. The house owner or consumer who buys the Metrowater without availing of any booking will be charged with theft of water.

If the unauthorized supply of water is identified through the GPS, the smart card issued will be automatically blocked and no further trip will be allowed for that tanker and the vehicle will be stopped immediately.

Section 379 of Indian Penal Code deals with punishment for theft and whoever commits theft of water will be punished with imprisonment for a term of three years or fine or it can be both.

An official with the Metrowater, while speaking to IANS on conditions of anonymity, said, "In earlier days only the owner of the vehicle and the driver were charged and the consumer used to get away. Generally it is the consumer who puts pressure on the driver to get water without booking. With the new clause, the consumer is also liable to be punished and this will curb the out of turn supply of water." The Metrowater tanker supply association has already sent a circular among the owners and drivers of the tanker lorries citing the new clause and warned members from indulging in providing water without online booking.
Lucknow, May 27 : Uttar Pradesh Congress has launched a campaign called 'Sewa Satyagrah - Mera Gaon, Mera Abhiyan' to provide help to the people, especially in the rural areas, amid the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

The party has also set up a helpline for residents of all 823 blocks of the state.

During the campaign, party workers will distribute medical kits to the residents and sanitise villages to prevent the spread of the deadly virus.

According to UP Congress president Ajay Kumar Singh Lallu, "A special drive to extend much-needed help to the people of rural Uttar Pradesh has been launched on the direction of party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Congress workers will distribute 10 lakh medical kits to villagers after medical consultation and also sanitise villages for which 15 lakh-litre of sanitiser has been procured." Lallu said that Priyanka Gandhi had earlier written to all the newly-elected village heads and members of district panchayats, seeking their help for making the programme a success.

The Congress leader said, "The first batch of medicines and sanitiser tanks has been dispatched with party leaders from UPCC headquarters in Lucknow and they would start functioning from Thursday. Similarly, teams will be dispatched from zonal headquarters in order to cover all the blocks of the state within the next one week.

"Our party is already working for public welfare by providing oxygen concentrators, medicines, food packets and three oxygen tankers which were provided to a Lucknow hospital by Priyanka Gandhi during the acute oxygen crisis." Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has sent oxygen concentrators to Amethi, his former parliamentary constituency, and has plans to organise a sanitation campaign in the district.

Amethi district Congress chief Pradeep Singhal said that 10,000 litres of sanitiser will soon be arriving in Amethi and teams have been formed to carry out the sanitisation drive amid the second wave of the pandemic.

"Rahul Gandhi has already sent five oxygen concentrators and 20 oxygen cylinders to the district on May 21 while 15 more concentrators have been dispatched," he said.

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New Delhi, May 27 : Compared to financial crises, a health crisis can be more pervasive, persistent and debilitating in its impact on the real economy, as per the RBI annual report for 2020-21.

"Letting down the guard is perilous; it is best to prepare for future waves," the report said.

It added that private investment is the missing piece in the story of the Indian economy in 2020-21; reviving it awaits an environment in which "animal spirits" are rekindled and entrepreneurial energies are released so that backward and forward linkages and multipliers prepare the ground for a durable investment-driven recovery.

The report said 2020-21 will go down in history as the year of the Covid-19 pandemic break in the life and ethos of humanity.

"It altered economic activity, finance and, more generally, life and livelihoods in a drastic and deep way that may take several years to heal. The pandemic also exposed the fragility of health care infrastructure and the inadequacy of health spending over the years. The year 2020 will also be notable for unprecedented policy responses which, although not coordinated, turned out to be synchronised globally," the report said.

The report said the extent of misery and the loss of human lives has left indelible fissures and several lessons for the future: eternal vigilance in terms of pandemic preparedness - it is not going away for some time; priority for upscaling health spending and health infrastructure; faster rollout of vaccines and vaccination while building up stocks; investing in research and development as vaccine developers/producers are challenged by new variants of the virus; prudent and preemptive pandemic protocols, including local lockdowns, restrictions on mobility and other COVID-appropriate behaviour.

Besides the toll on life and living, the year 2020 was ravaged by output and employment losses unprecedented in history, globally and in India. The pandemic also turned out to be highly inequitable - it is estimated that around 95 million additional people around the world have been forced into extreme poverty during the year, with 80 million more undernourished, mostly in low-income countries.

The report said just a year ago when the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared Covid-19 a pandemic and India imposed a strict lockdown in March, a deep despondency and risk psychosis became pervasive.

Since then, lives have been lost, surviving life has been disrupted and lifestyles have been fundamentally altered. In India, some areas of activity, especially contact intensive ones, have been deeply scarred while others such as agriculture and allied activities, information technology, highway infrastructure, tractor sales, railway freight, electricity demand and domestic trade have shown a rare resilience, it added.

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Patna, May 27 : The Patna police have launched a manhunt to nab a woman who offers a 'bike on rent' service to criminals.

The matter came to light after a man was nabbed with a stolen LPG cylinder under the jurisdiction of Patrakar Nagar police station.

"During investigation, the accused Amar Kumar disclosed that he had taken a bike on rent from a woman named Pushpa Kumari, who is popular as 'didi' among the local criminals, to execute the crime.

"She charges Rs 300 as rent for a bike per day and also takes a share from the stolen items," said a senior police official of Patrakar Nagar police station.

"We have the CCTV footage of the woman and efforts are on to trace her," he said.

"Amar revealed that the woman used to stay in hotels in Patna and did not meet the criminals directly. She has a fleet of 6 to 7 high speed bikes which are offered on rent to the criminals," the official added.
Chandigarh, May 27 : Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Thursday announced extension of the restrictions in the state till June 10, but ordered the limit on the number of passengers in personal vehicles to be removed in view of decline in the positivity and number of active Covid-19 cases.

The Chief Minister also directed the resumption of elective surgeries in both government and private hospitals, as well restoration of OPD operations at all government hospitals in the state in view of the improvement in the overall Covid situation.

The elective surgeries were stopped from April 12 to ensure adequate availability of beds and oxygen for serious Covid cases, but the Chief Minister has now allowed these to be resumed, subject to the condition that there shall, for the present, be no reduction in beds for L3 patients in the hospital.

Medical Education Minister O.P. Soni said three government medical colleges have already started 50 per cent OPD operations, which will soon be scaled up to 100 per cent.

On the issue of restrictions, the Chief Minister said it had been decided to continue with the curbs on the advice of experts. He clarified that while the limit on personal cars and two-wheelers was being removed as these are used mainly by family members and close friends, those on commercial passenger vehicles and taxis shall continue to be in place at present.

The Deputy Commissioners will also continue to be empowered to make any adjustments in opening of non-essential shops as are merited by local conditions, he said.

Asserting that the state could not afford to be lax despite some easing of the situation, the Chief Minister directed the Health and Medical Education Departments to continue strengthening the Covid care infrastructure and facilities to deal with a possible third wave of the pandemic.

He asked them to invest also in augmenting paediatric care and to seek 500 paediatric ventilators from the government of India. The meeting was informed all 809 ventilators received earlier under the PM Cares Fund had been distributed and 136 of them were not working.

The Chief Minister also ordered creation of more technical and specialists posts to meet the demands of the possible third wave.

Dr Raj Bahadur informed the meeting that the recruitment of doctors and nurses had been almost completed, while the process for procurement of equipment for the makeshift hospitals had also started.

Taking strong note of overcharging by some private hospitals, the Chief Minister warned that profiteering and fleecing of patients amid such a crisis will not be allowed at any cost.

He directed the Health and Medical Education Departments to ensure that hospitals display huge boards at the entrance displaying rates.

Reviewing the Covid situation with top health experts and officials, as well as police and administrative officers, Amarinder Singh directed close and continuous monitoring of high risk individuals and pregnant women in home isolation through special teams.

Given the comfortable Oxygen situation in the state currently, the Chief Minister also directed that oxygen may now be allowed to be used for essential non-medical purposes, with a three-day buffer stock of medical oxygen, however, to be maintained at all times.

He noted with satisfaction that oxygen concentrator banks were now present in every district for post-Covid care patients who have a doctor's prescription.

The Chief Minister also ordered ramping up of testing and sampling in the rural areas to ensure early identification and treatment of infected persons, as part of the 'Corona Mukt Pendu Abhiyan'.

He expressed satisfaction that almost 1.4 crore individuals (37 lakh households) had already been screened in these areas.

Health minister Balbir Sidhu said the situation in the rural areas was bad mainly because people were going to hospitals late.

Health Secretary Hussan Lal said the positivity rate in rural areas was four per cent with people there shying from testing and coming forward only when faced with severe symptoms.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Tokyo, May 27 : Japanese four-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka has said she will not interact with press in her upcoming French Open campaign, citing mental health reasons.

Naomi -- the reigning Australian Open champion -- announced the media boycott ahead of the Roland Garros event, which will get underway on Sunday, DPA reports.

Under French Open rules, players are required to hold media conferences after each match.

Naomi is the world's highest earning female athlete and will be fined by tournament officials should the world number two not take part in news conferences. She hopes the fines she will receive can be donated towards mental health charity.

"I'm writing this to say that I'm not going to do any press during Roland Garros," Naomi wrote on Twitter.

"I've often felt that people have no regard for athletes' mental health and this rings true whenever I see a press conference or partake in one.

"We're often sat there and asked questions that we've been asked multiple times before or asked questions that bring doubt into our minds and I am not going to subject myself to people who doubt me.

"I've watched many clips of athletes breaking down after a loss in the press room and I know you have as well. I believe that whole situation is kicking a person while they're down and I don't understand the reasoning behind it.

"Me not doing press is nothing personal to the tournament. However, if the organisations think that they can just keep saying, 'do press or you're gonna be fined', and continue to ignore the mental health of the athletes that are centrepiece of their co-operation then I just gotta laugh." Naomi heads to Paris having never progressed beyond the third round of the French Open. The 23-year-old former world No.1 skipped last year's French Open amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Bhopal, May 27 : A consignment of 1,910 vials of amphotericin injections for the treatment of black fungus patients reached Bhopal on Thursday. The consignment will be sent to other districts in Madhya Pradesh from Bhopal.

The fresh consignment arrived after the state ran out of the injections amid rising cases of black fungus.

The black fungus disease is spreading in Madhya Pradesh along with the surge in Covid cases. A large number of patients who beat coronavirus are prone to the black fungus disease and are suffering from lack of amphotericin injections that are helpful in its treatment.

Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has tweeted that the Madhya Pradesh government is making every effort to treat the patients of black fungus. "Today, the state has received 1,910 units of amphotericin injection. These injections are being sent by air to Jabalpur, Gwalior and Sagar districts," he informed.

He had earlier said that black fungus patients will be treated free of cost in government hospitals.
Kolkata, May 27 : Besides announcing a grant of 1,000 crore for relief operations in areas affected by Cyclone Yaas, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday announced that the restrictions imposed in the state in the wake of the pandemic will continue for another 15 days.

The government will review the situation again on June 15.

Congratulating the people for cooperating with the state government that has led to the slow-down of the Covid infection rate, Banerjee said, "Though the infection rate has reduced, the state government has decided to continue on with the restrictions for another 15 days. We are thankful that the people have cooperated with us and we have started getting good results but I urge the people to bear the hardship for a little longer. We will review the situation on June 15 and then decide the next course of action".

However, the chief minister announced some relaxations for jute and construction workers. "There have been several requests from Punjab and so we have decided to increase the workforce in jute industry from 30 per cent to 40 per cent but they will have to adhere to all the Covid norms. The construction workers can also go to work provided they have proper vaccination. It is the responsibility of the employers to vaccinate their employees from private places. If they are vaccinated then they can join the work," the chief minister said. "The rest of the conditions, as declared before, will prevail," she added.

Speaking on the occasion of a review meeting with the officials related to relief and rescue work, CM Banerjee said that the government has sanctioned a fund of Rs 1,000 crore for the relief measures but she cautioned that the money should go to the right beneficiaries. Detailing out the mechanism which is in line with 'Duare Sarkar, the chief minister said, "From June 3 to June 18 there will be relief camps in the affected blocks and Gram Panchayats,where the people will come and register themselves giving the details of their damage along with their personal and bank details. Like 'Duare Sarkar' it will be 'Duare Relief'.

"The government will inspect all the applications for the next 15 days - from June 16 to June 30 -- and make a list of the beneficiaries. Once the list of beneficiaries is prepared, the state finance department will start disbursing funds according to the damage and the estimation prepared at the block and panchayat level. The entire disbursement process will be complete by July 8. The money will be transferred directly to the account of the beneficiaries. There will be nobody in between. The transaction will be directly done to the beneficiary by the government," she added.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, May 27: Solidarity shown in the fight against Covid-19 also continues to power the India-France strategic partnership as both countries have pledged to strengthen the relationship in the post-pandemic era.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked Emmanuel Macron, President of France, for his country's prompt assistance to India's Covid-19 response, the two leaders also discussed bilateral, regional and global issues, including cooperation in climate action and Indo-Pacific, during the phone call late Wednesday evening.

While Paris continues to supply medical oxygen generators, containers of liquid oxygen and specialized medical equipment to India through the unique, dedicated logistical 'air and sea bridge' via Qatar, PM Modi and President Macron dedicated a lot of time during their call last night discussing ways to deepen the Indo-French strategic partnership in defence, civil nuclear energy, the environment and maritime issues, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

Modi-Macron camaraderie has been on the rise in recent times. Last December, the Indian PM, while conveying his condoloences to Macron for the terror attacks in France, had reiterated India's full support in country's fight against terrorism, extremism and radicalism.

In October, India had also strongly deplored the personal attacks "in unacceptable language" on Macron, labeling them as "violation of the most basic standards of international discourse", while condemning the brutal terrorist attack that took the life of a French teacher in a gruesome manner that had shocked the world.

The friendship between both the countries continued to acquire new depth and strength in the following months as they worked on improving the affordability and accessibility of Covid-19 vaccines, post-covid economic recovery and several other areas.

The bilateral trade with France has witnessed a steady rise in the last decade reaching USD 10.75 billion in 2020. To tap the full potential of bilateral trade and economic relations, both sides have recognised the importance of fast tracking the discussions on an India-EU trade and investment agreement.

The growing bonhomie is also witnessed in the seas as the two friendly navies frequently showcase the increased levels of synergy, coordination and inter-operability to underscore the shared values.

In the 19th edition of the Indian and French Navy bilateral exercise 'Varuna-2021' conducted in the Arabian Sea last month, the French Navy had sent its state-of-the-art Aircraft Carrier Charles-de-Gaulle with Rafale-M fighter, E2C Hawkeye aircrafts and helicopters Caiman M and Dauphin embarked, Horizon-class Air defence destroyer Chevalier Paul, Aquitaine-class multi-missions frigate FNS Provence with a Caiman M helicopter embarked and Command and supply ship Var.

During his visit to India last month, Jean-Yves Le Drian, France's Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, the decision to enhance the decades-long Indo-French space cooperation was also announced as the French National Space Agency (CNES) declared that it will share its expertise in space medicine to push India's Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission.

On Wednesday, both leaders expressed their satisfaction at the positive outcomes of the recently concluded India-European Union Leaders' Meeting and described the announcements regarding resumption of negotiations for balanced and comprehensive free trade and investment agreements, and India-EU Connectivity Partnership as welcome steps.

Macron appreciated India's decision to join the High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People, a decisive initiative in view of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Marseille and the COP15 in Kunming. Both India and France also reiterated their support for the International Solar Alliance.

Indo-Pacific is the key priority France remains an important partner as India continues to focus on the new avenues of cooperation in the Indo Pacific. Besides France, two other EU countries, including Germany and the Netherlands, have come out with their strategy papers on how they view the Indo Pacific and what role they want to play in that. The EU too has also come out with its own position paper on this particular issue, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs, Vikas Swarup, had informed following the India-EU Leaders' Meeting.

Earlier this month, India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, France's Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Yves Le Drian and Australia's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Marise Payne, met in London for the first India-France-Australia Trilateral Ministerial Dialogue on the sidelines of the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting.

India France The three nations stay committed to advancing their shared values and working together to achieve a free, open, inclusive and rules-based Indo-Pacific. The Ministers reaffirmed their support for the rule of law, freedom of navigation and overflight, peaceful resolution of disputes, democratic values, and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. They had also reaffirmed their commitment to ASEAN's centrality and their support for ASEAN's Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, and noted its complementarity with India's Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.

Underscoring their commitment to a reformed, UN-centred multilateralism, France and Australia had also reaffirmed their support for India's permanent membership of the UNSC. France had also recently joined India's Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) which is helping to shape maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific to support an open, inclusive, resilient, prosperous and rules-based maritime order.

Extraordinary solidarity operation during Covid-19 As India was hard hit by the Covid-19 pandemic during the past few weeks, President Macron's initiative to organise support for New Delhi lies at the heart of the strategic partnership and friendship between the French and Indian people.

The massive 'oxygen bridge' operation, involving shipping medical equipment from France to India by air and sea freight via Qatar, has been designed to respond to the emergency and also to significantly boost the capacity of Indian hospitals. Implemented by both the governments, the Indian armed forces and assisted by cooperation from several French companies, it continues to deliver medical supplies to the coasts and airports of India.

Initiated on May 1, a fresh delivery of oxygen generator plants and medical equipment will be made in the coming weeks.

Macron on Wednesday reiterated the support and solidarity of the French people in the context of the deadly epidemic wave in India. He also reiterated the importance of ACT-Accelerator partnership - a groundbreaking global collaboration to accelerate development, production, and equitable access to Covid-19 tests, treatments, and vaccines - including the COVAX facility, to strengthen multilateral approach to the production, sale and donation of vaccines.

(This content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative/

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
South Africa: Cabinet notes progress of Presidential Employment Stimulus

By the end of March 2021, a total of 532 180 people had directly benefited from the Presidential Employment Stimulus and created or retained 422 786 jobs as well as supported 109 394 livelihoods.

Addressing a media briefing on the outcomes of the recent Cabinet meeting, Acting Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said a further 161 972 job opportunities are still being processed as part of Phase 1 of the employment stimulus, bringing the total number of opportunities supported to 694 152.

Cabinet welcomed the progress report on the implementation of the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which aims to create new jobs, provide support for livelihoods and protect existing jobs in vulnerable sectors, Ntshavheni said on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Cabinet has approved humanitarian assistance for the people of Zimbabwe.

This was in response to an appeal made in March 2019 by the Zimbabwean government for the humanitarian assistance following the Tropical Cyclone Idai that caused severe flooding that destroyed infrastructure and killed people.

South Africa, through the African Renaissance and International Cooperation Fund, had pledged R50 million in humanitarian support to Zimbabwe. However, the outbreak of the COVID-19 global pandemic delayed the implementation of the project, the Minister said.

The first consignment of 450 000 bags of 12.5 kg maize meal was delivered on Africa Day on Tuesday to be distributed to families in desperate need of food aid.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2021-05-27. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Editor's note: CGTN's First Voice provides instant commentary on breaking stories. The daily column clarifies emerging issues and better defines the news agenda, offering a Chinese perspective on the latest global events.

In the minds of many Westerners, Tibet is one of the last wild places on Earth, with a vibrant pure form of religion that links humanity back to its ancient roots and a pristine landscape unchanged from prehistoric times.

In short, it is Shangri-La and a counterpoint to the complex, often stressful lives of the modern era. From this perspective, it is easy to see why many good-hearted Westerners have been alarmed by the growth of cities, construction of roads and the appearance of a dwindling ancient way of life in the 70 years since it was peacefully liberated by China.

But, by mourning for that "Tibet," these Westerners are also mourning for the simpler times they image they themselves have lost. However, the reality of life in Tibet and the changes that have taken place since the demise of Tibet's theocratic feudal serfdom is quite different.

On May 21, China's State Council Information Office issued a white paper on the peaceful liberation of Tibet and its development over the past seven decades, which offers some context for people who mourn the loss of a Shangri-La that never existed. In old Tibet, there was a rigid hierarchy, with people divided into three classes by blood and position. The upper class, just 5 percent of the population, owned almost all of the land, pastures, forests, mountains, rivers and flood plains, and most of the livestock.

Older Tibetan women in traditional dress circumambulate the Jokhang Temple with their pray wheels in Lhasa, Tibet, China. /Getty

Before the democratic reforms in 1959, there were a mere 197 hereditary aristocratic families, and the few top families each possessed dozens of manors and thousands of hectares of land. The family of the current Dalai Lama owned 27 manors, 30 pastures, 4.8 tons of gold, 2.8 million tons of silver, and more than 6,000 serfs. Serfs and slaves, who accounted for 95 percent of the population, had no freedom or way to make a living. They were exploited through corvee labor, taxes, and high-interest loans and struggled to eke out survival. They had no access to schools other than lamaseries or hospitals  because there were none. They could not own property.

Tibetans welcomed the 1951 peaceful liberation of Tibet. However, the former ruling class chafed as society was restructured. In old Tibet, there was no separation of religious and political power, and the religious elite enjoyed absolute supremacy. But as Tibet modernized, the religious class lost their immense wealth and privilege. As Kenneth Conboy and James Morrison describe in their book "The CIA's Secret War in Tibet," the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency encouraged and eventually controlled Tibet's revolt against China, rallying the former ruling class to try to cling to their power with a failed armed rebellion in 1959.

Similar to the rest of China, the changes in Tibet over the past 70 years are hard to imagine. The serf system has been abolished. Absolute poverty has been completely eradicated. Tibetans own their own homes now. Former nomadic tribesmen have been resettled in prosperous areas and now have access to jobs, education, and healthcare. And Tibetans are free to practice their religion, be it Buddhism, Islam, or Christianity.

In the 1930s, it took at least half a year to travel to the closest major cities outside of Tibet. Since 1951, Tibet has gradually built a transportation network with more than 118,800 kilometers of highways, including 700 kilometers of modern expressways. Railways connect Lhasa with Shanghai and Beijing, and a railway to Sichuan Province are under construction. Tibet has five airports, with 40 domestic and international air routes in operation, reaching 66 cities.

Station house and station front square of the South Railway Station at an altitude of more than 3,500 meters on the section between Lhasa and Nyingchi of the Sichuan-Tibet Railway under construction on November 30, 2020. /Getty

The standard of living continues to soar. In 2020, the per capita disposable income doubled in comparison with 2010. Students enjoy 15 years of publicly-funded compulsory education. Tibet publishes 66 newspapers and periodicals and has built 5,464 rural libraries and 1,787 monastery libraries. All townships have health centers, and all villages have health clinics.

The Tibetan spoken and written language is widely used and is protected by law. It can be used in court and at meetings and activities organized by local governments. Tibet now has 16 periodicals and 12 newspapers in the Tibetan language and has published more than 40 million copies of 7,185 Tibetan-language books.

Tibet has been part of China since the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). Colonialist westerners have been trying to pry it away since the 18th century, albeit with repeated failure. A wave of Western support for Tibetan independence occurred in the 1990s and 2000s, with actors, musicians, and other public figures claiming that China was committing cultural genocide in Tibet.

It's true that Tibet has undergone epochal changes within the lifetimes of many people alive today. Tibetans have been transformed from illiterate serfs and to free, educated people, enjoying the modern amenities. The only cultural "genocide" that has taken place is the loss of privilege and power of some bitter members of the former elites.

When thinking about Tibet, we need to set aside our romantic notions of the "noble savage" and ask Tibetans themselves how their lives have changed since liberation. China welcomes the world to visit this beautiful land and find out for themselves.
Guwahati, May 27 : The Assam government has taken determined and ambitious decisions and plans to curb poaching of rhinos and protect all animals in the UNESCO world heritage site Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve (KNP & TR), which also faces the brunt of the annual floods.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma while holding a review meeting on Thursday, has decided to form a Special Task Force headed by a Special Director General of Police to prevent the poaching and smuggling of rhino horns.

After the meeting, Health and Family Welfare Minister Keshab Mahanta said that an Additional Superintendent of Police and a Deputy Superintendent of Police would also be added to the existing forces which are guarding the world heritage site.

Mahanta, spokesman of the Assam government, said that it was also decided to procure at least 10 satellite phones and more sophisticated rifles for the protection of the rhinos and all other wild animals. "A long term plan would also be undertaken for all round protection and development of KNP & TR and adjoining areas," the minister said.

Smugglers and poachers are poaching rhinos in KNP & TR and other national parks in Assam and selling their horns in international markets.

After the government and the forest authorities took a series of steps including increasing the numbers of trained security personnel, the poaching activities drastically reduced over the years.

Three rhino poachers and smugglers of rhino horns were arrested by the Assam police earlier this month from Karbi Anglong district and recovered some sophisticated arms and ammunition from their possession.

Mahanta said that the Chief Minister has strongly asked the officials and all concerned to protect the animals from the impending floods during June to September.

Agriculture Minister Atul Bora, Forest Minister Parimal Suklabaidya, Finance Minister Ajanta Neog, Health Minister Keshab Mahanta, Deputy Speaker of Assam Assembly Numal Momin among others, were present in the review meeting.

Like previous years, the floods in Assam badly hit the KNP & TR between June and September last year, with 18 rhinos and 135 other wild animals dying due to the deluge.

According to the Director of the KNP & TR, Karmashree P. Sivakumar, 172 wild animals were rescued from the flood waters last year.In 2019, 263 animals, including many endangered rhinos, were killed in the floods while 169 animals were rescued.

"Maximum efforts are being made, including construction of highland, to take care of the animals in the national park during the floods and other calamities," Sivakumar said.

Despite the Covid-19 pandemic and the ensuing economic fallout coupled with the consequent restrictions since October last year over two lakh tourists, including 570 foreigners visited the KNP & TR, considered as one of the best conserved wildlife reserves in India.

The KNP & TR, extending across Assam's Golaghat, Nagaon, Sonitpur, Biswanath and Karbi Anglong districts along the Arunachal Pradesh border, is home to more than 2,400 one-horned Indian rhinos, approximately two third of the total world population.

Set up in 1908, the KNP & TR, one of India's seven UNESCO world heritage sites in the natural and environment category since 1985.

Besides rhinos, the KNP & TR has 121 tigers, 1,089 elephants and huge numbers of Asiatic buffalo, swamp deer, wild boar, hog deer, porcupine and other endangered animals and snakes.With an estimated rhinoceros population of 2,640, Assam has the largest number of Indian one-horned rhinos in the world.
New Delhi, May 27 : Hours after Twitter said that it is concerned by the recent events regarding its employees in India, Delhi Police on Thursday rubbished its claims and termed the statements of the microblogging giant as not only "mendacious", but also designed to impede a lawful inquiry by a private enterprise.

The Delhi Police also said that Twitter has taken upon itself, in the garb of terms of service, to adjudicate the truth or otherwise of documents in the public space.

"We have come across press reports that quote Twitter making statements pertaining to the ongoing inquiry by Delhi Police. Prima facie, these statements are not only mendacious, but also designed to impede a lawful inquiry by a private enterprise. Twitter Inc. has taken upon itself, in the garb of terms of service, to adjudicate the truth or otherwise of documents in public space," Delhi Police said in a statement.

The Delhi Police further said that Twitter is purporting to be both an investigating authority as well as an adjudicating judicial authority.

"It has no legal sanction to be either. The only legal entity, so empowered by the duly laid down law, to investigate is the police and to adjudicate is the courts," the statement said.

"However, since Twitter claims to have material information the basis of which it not only 'investigated' but arrived at a 'conclusion', it must share that information with the police. There should not be any confusion about this logical course," it added.

The Delhi Police's statement came after Twitter on Thursday requested the Information & Technology Ministry to consider a minimum of three months' extension in order for the company to implement the new intermediary guidelines issued by the Centre, the deadline for which expired on May 25.

The microblogging major, which saw the police land up at its offices in Delhi and Gurugram earlier this week related to the alleged Congress 'toolkit' controversy, said that it reaffirms that Twitter continues to accept grievances from the users and law enforcement via its existing grievance redressal channel available under the new IT Rules.

Stressing that it will strive to comply with the applicable law in India, a Twitter spokesperson said in a statement that right now, "we are concerned by the recent events regarding our employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people we serve".

"We, alongside many in the civil society in India and around the world, have concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police in response to enforcement of our global terms of service, as well as with core elements of the new IT Rules," Twitter said in its first reaction after the police visits.

On Monday, Delhi Police visited Twitter India's local offices in south Delhi's Lado Sarai and Gurugram to serve a notice after the social media platform had marked one of the tweets of BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra as "manipulated media".

Patra had shared the alleged toolkit of the Congress over Covid, accusing it of defaming the Prime Minister and the government.

The Delhi Police said that the entire conduct by Twitter, including its Indian entity, in the last few days has been "obfuscatory, diversionary and tendentious".

"There is one simple thing to do which Twitter refuses to do. That is, cooperate with the law enforcement and reveal to the legal authority the information it has," the police said.

The police also said that Twitter, being a public platform, must lead by example in demonstrating transparency in its functioning, which has a bearing on public discourse and should proactively bring clarity into what are subject matters of public domain.

The Delhi Police said that since the matter has been put in public domain, it is important to set the record straight on the tendentious statements made by Twitter.

"First, Delhi Police have registered a preliminary inquiry at the instance of a complaint filed by the representative of the Congress. Hence, the efforts of Twitter to portray that this is an FIR filed at the behest of the government is wholly and completely incorrect," Delhi Police said.

The police further said that secondly, Delhi Police are conducting a preliminary inquiry on the same and the matter is under investigation.

"Twitter, while placing the cart before the horse, went ahead and declared that the toolkit was 'Manipulated Media'. This clearly demonstrates that Twitter was acquainted with the facts of the case and it had material information which was germane to the inquiry by a duly recognised law enforcement agency. Therefore, Twitter was asked, by way of multiple communications, to join the inquiry to provide the information it possesses," the Delhi Police said.

The police also said that the purpose of Twitter being served a notice to participate in the inquiry was to allow the investigation to proceed and bring all relevant matters on record.

"Twitter India's subsidiary TCIPL's Managing Director chose to adopt a path of evasiveness instead of cooperation," the police alleged.

Delhi Police said that initially, TCIPL's Managing Director had stated in his response that he was merely a sales head, and had no role whatsoever in any operations relating to content and thereby refused to join the inquiry.

"It is to be noted that TCIPL's stance that its Managing Director is a mere sales head runs contrary to his very own previous press interviews, wherein he elaborately discussed Twitter's plans to devise methods to identify abusive or manipulative content. The above interview makes it clear that Twitter India's convoluted stance is similar to a deer caught in the headlights," the police claimed.

"Fourth, and last, the contrived fear mongering by Twitter is unfounded and misplaced. The Managing Director of TCIPL was merely served a notice, not as an accused but to participate in the inquiry as Twitter claims to have been acquainted with certain facts," the police said.

The Delhi Police had served a notice to Twitter India MD Manish Maheshwari on May 21, asking him to appear before the police with all the documents in the alleged Congress toolkit case.

"Twitter Inc's latest statements are devised to seek dubious sympathy when they themselves not only refuse to comply with the law of the land, but also claim to be in possession of material evidence but refuse to share it with the duly recognised legal authority," the Delhi Police added.
Patna, May 27 : Amid uncertainty over the panchayat elections in Bihar due to the second wave of the pandemic, BJP MP Ram Kripal Yadav has written to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar seeking extension of the term of the existing panchayat representatives till the new ones are elected.

Pataliputra MP Yadav wrote in his letter, "The Bihar panchayat election 2021 is most likely to be postponed due to the pandemic. If elections are not held, there will be a constitutional crisis in the three-tier panchayati raj system." He said that most of the schemes of the Central Government and the State Government which are related to the development of Panchayats, are facing an administrative crisis in their implementation. In such an unavoidable situation, the Bihar government will have to take a decision, so that the three-tier Panchayati Raj system keeps functioning effectively for the development of the rural areas.

He added, "I am attaching a letter of Ashok Singh, the state president of village heads. Ashok Singh has requested you that the powers of the existing panchayat representatives under the Panchayati Raj system, be extended till the Bihar Panchayat elections are held." Yadav said apart from Ashok Singh several panchayat representatives have made a similar demand. There are genuine concerns of representatives. Prima facie, the demand of these representatives seems justified.

At the end of the letter, the MP requested the Chief Minister that after proper dialogue with all the stakeholders of the three-tier Panchayati Raj system, he should take a call at the earliest.

The five-year term of the heads of all the panchayats in Bihar expires on June 15 and the date of election has not been announced yet.
Dhaka, May 27 : Militant outfit Hefazat-e-Islam leader Aminul Islam, who was arrested in Chittagong on Wednesday midnight in connection with the violence that followed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's March visit, was on Thursday sent to hospital for treatment.

Chittagong Judicial Magistrate Anjuman Ara sent Islam to hospital when police produced him in court and sought 10 days police custody.

The court has ordered that he be produced before it after he recovers.

Remand of Islam will be sought for further interrogation when he feels well, Chittagong district Intelligence Branch officer in charge Keshab Chakraborty told IANS.

Islam, who is the Hefazat's Hathazari Municipality Committee Co-Secretary, is also accused of killing Hefazat's previous Amir Shah Ahmed Shafi according to a complaint by his followers.

Four people were killed in Hathazari during the three days violence by Hefazat militants over Modi's two-day visit on March 26-27.

Aminul, who was arrested from Fatikchhari of Chittagong, has confessed his involvement in the violence and vandalism.

Police have, so far, arrested 85 people in these cases. Of them, six gave confessional statement in 10 cases filed at Hathazari police station accusing 148 people including Hefazat Amir Junaid Babunagari.
New York, May 27 : An Indian-origin man, who saved at least one person in a California mass shooting, was among the nine people killed by a railway worker who killed himself in San Jose, according to officials.

Taptejdeep Singh, 36, was shot on Wednesday at a railway yard in the city in California's Silicon Valley, by a fellow worker, according to the local Sheriff's Office.

Singh was a train operator for the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority, a local light rail system.

San Jose Mercury News quoted Singh's brother, Bagga Singh, as saying that his brother "put a lady in a control room to hide. He saved her and rushed down the stairway." He said that although his brother may be considered a hero, "he should have saved his life, too. We lost a good person." The newspaper said that Singh's brother-in-law, P.J. Bath, who also works as a light rail operator, said that Singh was working the early shift.

He said that Singh "was always helpful to everyone and caring." The home of the shooter, maintenance worker Samuel James Cassidy, 57, went up in flames around the time the shooting began.

The area around the train depot and station were put in a lockdown as law enforcement searched the area for bombs.

Mourning the deaths and the impact on families of the trade "union brothers and sisters," President Joe Biden renewed his call for stricter gun laws in a country which sees frequent mass shootings.

Just over the weekend, a mass shooting in New Jersey killed two people and injured several others.

Officials said that Cassidy apparently killed himself.

A motive for the shooting was not known as of Thursday morning, but San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo said that his co-workers had "expressed generalised concerns about his mental health."
New Delhi, May 27 : The Enforcement Directorate has attached 20 immovable properties, located in Mumbai, Pune and Ratnagiri and worth Rs 166 crore, in connection with a case of bank fraud case involving the Maharashtra-based Varron group of Industries.

An ED official said that the financial probe agency had registered a case of money laundering on the basis of an FIR registered by the CBI against (late) Shrikant Pandurang Sawaikar, Director of Varron Industries and unknown officials of Bank of India and Canara Bank.

He said that the ED probe revealed that a criminal conspiracy hatched by Sawaikar, Director of Varron Aluminium Pvt Ltd (VAPL), and his accomplices to cheat the Bank of India by inducing it to discount 246 forged bills backed by the Letter of Credit, of around Rs 300 crore opened by Canara Bank, Deccan Gymkhana Branch, Pune, on behalf of VAPL.

The official said that the Bank of India negotiated and discounted the amount of the said bills in the account of VAPL after deducting its charges.

"An amount of Rs 293 crore was credited in the account of VAPL on the basis of false assurances and forged documents. Further, part of said loans was diverted and later on due date, the Canara Bank denied the issuance of the relevant LCs. Bank of India did not get the amount on due date, and hence suffered a wrongful loss of Rs 293 crore," he said.

The official said that the money was layered multiple times through group companies and various shell entities floated by Sawaikar and his accomplices.

"During further investigation, it was found that said proceeds of crime is eventually used for purchasing immovable properties including residential flats, land and part of it is used in group companies of Varron Group -- VAPL, Varron Auto Comp Pvt Ltd, and Varron Industries Pvt Ltd.
New Delhi, May 27 : Citing empathy, the Delhi High Court on Thursday asked the Delhi government to consider ex-gratia and compassionate appointment to family members of judicial officers who succumbed to Covid-19.

The court said that currently there isn't a category where judicial officers are recognised as frontline workers for Covid-19 vaccination. The Delhi government informed the court the category is created primarily for vaccination only and in future, it would take into account, extending it to judicial officers.

The bench noted it expects the state government to consider the matter with adequate empathy and sensitivity. The observation was made while hearing a petition by a group of lawyers seeking a coordination mechanism for judicial officers, as they were unable to get Covid-19 medical treatment and beds in hospitals.

The Delhi Judicial Services Association informed the court the Delhi government is yet to recognise judicial officers as frontline workers and asked the court that if there are any other benefits available to other frontline workers, they should also be considered for the same. The application by association was filed in the pending petition citing issues with medical facilities for judicial officers in the national capital.

Stating that issues have been adequately addressed, the court disposed of the matter seeking certain reliefs for court staff.

The court was informed that Delhi government was considering granting ex-gratia and compassionate appointment to family members of judicial officers, who succumbed to the viral infection.

The association's counsel had submitted that the principal secretary (law) has been appointed as nodal officer for interacting with all the district judges in the connection with medical assistances to judicial officers who are Covid-19 patients.

Earlier the court had expressed concern over the condition of subordinate judiciary's judicial officers who, due to their nature of duties, are at risk amid the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

Citing the death of three judicial officers, the court had insisted that prima facie judicial officers should be considered equivalent to frontline workers and asked the government to consider this aspect.

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Chandigarh, May 27 : The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on Thursday condemned the Central government for trying to defame the farmers' agitation as well as suppress it by allegedly filing a politically motivated chargesheet accusing the farmers of conspiring to turn the Red Fort into a protest site on January 26 this year.

In a statement here, former minister Daljit Singh Cheema said it was shocking that Delhi Police had filed a chargesheet accusing the farmers of trying to capture the Red Fort on January 26 with the aim of turning it into a protest site.

He said this was furthest from the truth. "It is a matter of record that the entire established leadership of the Kisan Andolan as well as thousands of protesters took a predetermined route as finalised after talks with Delhi Police. Only a small section of people reached the Red Fort." Cheema said it was apparent that Delhi Police had not done a professional investigation into the entire case.

"The factual position on the ground has not been taken into consideration while framing the chargesheet. In fact, it seems to be motivated by politics." The SAD leader asked the Central government to take stock of the situation immediately and take corrective measures to ensure no farmer was victimised due to the partisan chargesheet filed by the police.
Chennai, May 27 : Tamil star Vijay Sethupathi announced that he will release the second track of upcoming drama "Maamanithan" on Friday. The actor uploaded the poster of the track on his social media account on Thursday.

The first track of the film "Thattiputta" was release earlier this year. The second track has been titled "Ye Rasa", which is brings back legendary music composer Ilaiyraja and his son Yuvan Shankar Raja Vijay took to Instagram to share the poster, where he is seen in a pensive mood as he looked over a scenic view of the lake. He captioned the image as: " 'Ye Rasa' - Second Single from #mmaamanidhan. Song video featuring @itsyuvan. Releasing tomorrow at 11.30am. Maestro #ilaiyaraj & Young Maestro #Yuvan musical.

After the success of the first track, Yuvaan too looks thrilled for the second one, as he uploaded the same poster on his Instagram page to make the announcement.

This is the first time Ilaiyraja and Yuvan are scoring music together. "Maamanithan" is directed by Seenu Ramasamy and actress Gayathrie stars as the leading lady in the film. Actors KPAC Lalitha, Guru Somasundaram, Shaji Chen, Saravana Sakthi, Viswasam fame Anikha Surendran play supporting roles in this movie.
Mumbai, May 27 : Actress Zareen Khan took to social media on Thursday to thank fans for wishing her on Eid as well as her birthday on May 14, and apologised for the delayed response. She said was caught up due to her mother's ill health over the past month and a half.

"I know I am a little late but thank you everyone for all your love and wishes that you sent for my birthday and Eid. I am sorry about not being able to personally reply to everyone's wish. I've been caught up with my mother's health since last one and a half month as she is not keeping well and been in and out of the hospital. Currently she is hospitalised again and I would request you all to keep her in your prayers for her speedy recovery." Zareen' latest release is the film "Hum Bhi Akele Tum Bhi Akele", which dropped digitally. The film directed by Harish Vyas is about a homosexual boy and a lesbian girl on a road trip. It also stars Anshuman Jha.
Espanola City Councilors Denise Benavidez (left), John Ricci, Peggy Sue Martinez and City Planning Director Richard Hubler confer about numbers following the May 18 budget meeting. The full finance committee met again Monday night and passed a budget that looked nothing like the one considered May 18.
Chennai, May 27 : During the Covid-19 pandemic, volunteers of the Tamil Nadu Muslim Munnetra Kazhagam have come forward to bury people who died of Covid and whose family does not have the resources to conduct a decent funeral. Also, in certain cases, family members refuse to take the corpse to the crematorium fearing that they too will be infected.

According to the organization office bearers, their 4,000 odd volunteers have helped to cremate and bury 2,064 people across the state from April 1 to May 25 as per the Covid protocols. During the first wave of the pandemic they conducted the funerals of 1,350 people.

The TMMK, an organisation fighting for the rights of Muslims in a democratic manner, has been involved in voluntary activities including blood donation and rendering service during the Tsunami.

Mujeeb Mohammed of Gumudipundi on the outskirts of Chennai who is a TMMK volunteer, told IANS, "The workers in the crematorium and burial grounds are fearful of contracting the virus on some occasions. We wear the PPE kits and observe the necessary sanitation, adhere to the Covid protocols and do the burial or cremation according to the religious beliefs of the deceased." In some cases wherein the deceased person's family is not able to meet the expenses of the funeral and also to pay the charges of the ambulance the organization chips in and provides every help they can.

TMMK state secretary Ejaz Ahmad while speaking to IANS said, "I am now familiar with the funeral customs of other religions after volunteering to cremate or bury the Covid -19 victims." In certain cases the family members of the deceased do not want to touch the body or carry it to the funeral ground and here also TMMK volunteers take this forward.

Nizamuddin, a volunteer of the organization based in Dharmapuri, Salem told IANS, "We have seen several tragic scenes wherein the family members don't venture out to take the body of the deceased to the funeral ground. They are worried that they may contract the disease and we were forced to perform the last rites and services with tears in our eyes. I am also familiar with the customs of both Hindus and Christians after doing the cremation and burials during the first and second wave of the pandemic."

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Chennai, May 27 : The Tamil Nadu government on Thursday invited volunteers, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and corporates to register with the government for Covid related relief work.

"NGOs, volunteers and corporates are requested to register at https://ucc.uhcitp.in/ngoregistration. The state coordination committee has also opened a Facebook registration account. Interested volunteers can also e-mail to tnngocoordination@gmail.com," a government release said.

It said that a state-level coordination committee is functioning from the war room unified command centre on the National Health Mission campus in Teynampet.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin had convened a meeting of NGOs at the state secretariat on Tuesday to emphasise on the need to work together during the trying times of the pandemic. The government has already set up a state coordination committee and a district coordination committee for the purpose.

Tamil Nadu is reeling under the second wave of the pandemic, recording the second highest single-day Covid tally after Maharashtra.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, May 27 : Online travel major MakeMyTrip on Thursday announced a partnership with over 500 hotels across multiple cities offering safe and comfortable isolation rooms for patients affected with Covid-19.

These cities include Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, Lucknow, Kolkata, Pune, Jaipur, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh and Ludhiana, among others.

The rooms can be booked via the MakeMyTrip platform. Most of the hotels are also offering an all-meals inclusive rate, as hotel stay during isolation needs to be as self-contained as possible.

MakeMyTrip has also recently launched CoviRide (https://coviride.com/) -- an open, peer-to-peer community platform available on mobile web and desktop -- designed to help individuals, organisations and larger communities to seek and provide transport related assistance for Covid-19 infected patients.

It also helps the user locate a ride to a vaccination centre, drive through oxygen centres, to and from the hospital and for medical equipment transfer such as oxygen cylinders, concentrators, medicines, among others.

In addition, the MakeMyTrip foundation is also procuring 300 oxygen concentrators and the initial set has already been shared with Gurgaon Administration, Sir Ganga Ram City Hospital, Delhi and NGOs like Hemkunt Foundation and National Association for the Blind (NAB).

The foundation is also collaborating with RWAs across Delhi-NCR to assist in setting-up Covid-Care facilities at large residential areas by providing oxygen concentrators.

Maersk, an integrated container logistics company, has supported India's fight against the second wave of Covid-19 pandemic by facilitating the logistics and supply chain of medical relief.

The company has offered its ocean transportation service to institutions and organisations participating in medical relief at a nominal rate of $1 per container. All air freight shipments to India facilitated by Maersk are being done on a zero-profit basis.

More than 6,000 oxygen concentrators, 500 oxygen cylinders, 60 cryogenic oxygen tanks, and several medical supplies and ventilators have been transported into India by Maersk through its ocean and air freight solutions for various institutions and corporates contributing to medical relief activities.

The logistics activities undertaken by Maersk in order to support the medical aid into the country involve facilitating shipments coming in from countries such as Ireland, Finland, China, Germany, UAE, Qatar, Israel, South Africa and Singapore with more shipments from China, Turkey and Dammam still in progress.

Meanwhile, e-commerce major Amazon on Thursday announced that it is arranging Covid-19 health insurance cover, completely free of cost for registered sellers on the Amazon.in marketplace, through Acko General Insurance Limited (Acko).

Amazon.in will fully fund the premium cost for this group insurance policy that will be valid for one year after activation. Sellers with an active listing on Amazon.in between January 1 2020 and May 1 2021 can enrol themselves under the group policy to get coverage for Covid-19 hospitalisation and medical expenses up to Rs 50,000. In addition, the insurance policy will also cover domiciliary treatment expenses, as prescribed, up to the sum insured.

For the benefit of its sellers amidst the extremely challenging and trying times, Amazon.in recently also announced that the company will cover the Covid-19 vaccine costs for its eligible sellers and one dependent.A In addition, valid from May 1, 2021 till May 31, 2021, Amazon.in introduced a host of measures to help marketplace sellers navigate the economic challenges caused by the pandemic including fee waivers, reimbursements, policy and performance relaxations for impacted sellers.

Amazon.in has also collaborated with Ketto which will enable SMBs to use the crowdfunding platform to raise funds to support their communities. Ketto will waive off the success fees for all such fundraisers hosted by Amazon.in marketplace sellers.

Further, Canon India is conducting a vaccination awareness drive and setting up support camps in its adopted villages -- Maheshwari (Haryana), Parivali (Mumbai), Kalyanpur (Kolkata) and Annadodi (Bengaluru), to help them register for vaccination.

The company is helping the villagers with the required information on vaccination, its benefits, after-effects, and procedures. It is also helping them to get registered on the government portals, in case walk-in registration is not available.

Canon India also aims to raise awareness in rural India and debunk all myths related to Covid-19 vaccinations and encourage them to book their slot.

Within a week of the awareness drive, the company has helped over 1,000 people with vaccination regarding procedures and get them registered on portals.

Not-for-profit foundation AI & Robotics Technology Park (ARTPARK) has in collaboration with HealthTech startup Niramai and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru, launched XraySetu -- an AI-driven solution for the early intervention of Covid-19 cases across India.

The free-to-use platform extends an equitable AI technology to rural Indian doctors for doing a quick chest Xray interpretation over whatsapp chatbot.

Besides Covid-19, the platform can also ably detect 14 additional lung-related ailments including tuberculosis and pneumonia alongside others. XraySetu can further be used for both analogue as well as digital X-rays and work with low-resolution images sent via mobiles. XraySetu has successfully piloted more than 300 doctors in rural areas over the last 10 months.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Mumbai, May 27 : The trailer of Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt's upcoming fantasy adventure "Jungle Cruise" was launched on Thursday.

The cast also features Edgar RamArez, Jack Whitehall, Jesse Plemons, and Paul Giamatti among others and, inspired by the popular Disneyland theme park ride of the same name, the film is directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, known as the helmer of films such as "House Of Wax", "Orphan", "The Shallows", "Unknown", and "Goal II: Living The Dream".

The story is penned by John Norville, Josh Goldstein, Glenn Ficarra and John Requa. Michael Green, Glenn Ficarra and John Requa have worked on the screenplay.

Besides starring, Johnson is also credited as a producer of the Disney film, which is slated for an international release on July 30. "Jungle Cruise" is also scheduled to release on big screen in India.

Set in the early 20th century, the film tells the story of a riverboat captain named Frank Wolff (Johnson) who takes a scientist, Dr. Lily Houghton (Blunt), on a mission into a dangerous jungle to find the Tree of Life, which is said to have healing powers. During the trip, they must battle dangers of the wild and supernatural forces.
Srinagar, May 27 : The Jammu and Kashmir Police along with security forces prevented six youth from joining terror ranks at Awantipora in south Kashmir's Pulwama district, officials said on Thursday.

After conducting multiple raids, the Awantipora police along with the army and CRPF personnel apprehended six youth who were planning to join terrorist ranks, the police said.

The six youth have been identified as Aqib Ahmad Dobi from Tral, Mufeez Ahmad Zargar from Tral-e-Payeen, Saifullah Ahmad Shah from Takiya Gulab Bagh Tral, Liyaqat Ahmad Khanday alias Amir from Amlar Tral, Shoaib Ahmad Bhat from Chersoo Awantipora and Bilal Ahmad Zaboo from Tral-e-Bala.

"The said youth were motivated and indoctrinated by the terrorists and their associates to join terror ranks. Preliminary investigation revealed that the misguided youth were motivated by Pakistan-based self-styled terror commanders to join militancy," the police said.
Kolkata, May 27 : A five-member bench of the Calcutta High Court on Thursday adjourned the hearing of the bail application moved by four heavyweight Trinamool Congress leaders arrested in the Narada sting operations to Friday.

The court decided to hear the recall applications filed by four arrested leaders against stay of their bail in the case, before hearing the larger issues raised by the CBI relating to the breakdown of rule of law in West Bengal and mob pressure on court.

The state has been witnessing high drama since May 17 when CBI sleuths arrested two Trinamool Congress ministers -- Firhad Hakim and Subrata Mukherjee -- along with present MLA Madan Mitra and former Kolkata Municipal Corporation Mayor Sovon Chattopadhyay in connection with the 2016 Narada sting tapes case, in which several politicians and a high-ranked police officer were allegedly found accepting cash for providing unofficial favours to the company.

While the high court had stayed the bail granted by a lower court to the four Trinamool leaders, they were later placed under house arrest until further hearing of the case.

On Thursday, the Calcutta HC bench comprising acting Chief Justice Rajesh Bindal, and Justices Arijit Banerjee, Harish Tandon, I.P. Mukherje and Soumen Sen began proceedings at 2 pm, and heard the submissions of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta appearing for the CBI and the counsels of the four arrested persons for more than two hours.

"We will hear the recall applications tomorrow morning," the bench said after hearing the submissions of both sides.

The court also allowed the CBI's request to make the state of West Bengal a party in the proceedings.

The developments came after advocates appearing for the arrested leaders urged the high court to take up the issue of bail first, as it involved the question of personal liberty of the arrested persons, who are presently under house arrest.

The arrested Trinamool leaders have been under judicial custody since May 17. On May 19, a division bench comprising Rajesh Bindal and Arijit Banerjee had allowed them to be placed under house arrest, after the judges delivered a split verdict on grant of interim-bail to them.

The high court then constituted the five-member bench to hear the case.

On May 17, the division bench had stayed the bail granted by a special CBI court to the four Trinamool Congress leaders.

The bench passed the stay order after a dramatic late-night hearing held on the basis of a letter sent by the CBI, seeking transfer of the case to the high court citing "unprecedented mob pressure" exerted on the lower court by the mass protests led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Law Minister Maloy Ghatak against the arrests of the Trinamool leaders.

The bench on May 24 rejected the request made by the CBI to stay the order for house arrest. It had also declined the request made by the Trinamool leaders' counsels for their release on interim bail.

The CBI then approached the Supreme Court challenging the order allowing house arrest. However, after adverse observations from the Supreme Court, the central probe agency chose to withdraw its petition from the top court on May 25.
Puducherry, May 27 : Puducherry Lieutenant Governor Tamilisai Sounderarajan in a statement said that a new programme called, "Covid Free Villages" will be launched in Puducherry and Karaikal on Friday for complete vaccination in villages.

She said that there is a declining trend of Covid-19 cases in the Union Territory and added that efforts are being made to reduce the death rate also.

The Lt Governor in the statement said the number of oxygen supported beds have been increased with the addition of 2000 oxygen beds. Four hundred additional beds have been set up at the Indira Gandhi Government General Hospital and the Post Graduate Institute.

She said that a new programme called "Oxygen Sisters" has been introduced in Puducherry which will monitor patients undergoing treatment at hospitals every hour with the help of oximeters to assess their oxygen levels. This would give confidence to the patients undergoing treatment.

The Lt Governor said that the Karaikal administration is providing pulse oximeters to the home quarantined Covid patients free of cost. She said that the patients must return them to the administration after use.

A new programme named "Pahirvoma" was launched to provide psychological counselling to patients in home quarantine. The programme is being held in consultation with the Department of Health and Family Welfare Services and the Department of Social Work. The University of Pondicherry provides tele medicine facility for patients.

The Lt Governor said she had held discussions with Chief Minister N Rangasamy to develop a scheme to provide assistance to the families of government employees and journalists who have fallen victim to Covid-19. She said the scheme would be rolled out soon.

She added that the MLAs should take initiatives to conduct total vaccination in their constituencies with special emphasis on the rural areas. She asked the MLAs to set up Covid care facilities in their constituencies.

The Lt Governor thanked the business community of Puducherry for having joined hands with the administration for "Uyir Katru", the Covid fund raising programme of the Department of Health.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, May 27 : The Delhi police on May 25 received a missing persons complaint at Police Station Chhawla regarding two minor sisters aged 16 years and 14 years.

The call was marked to ASI Rajkumar to verify the facts. On verification, a case was registered vide FIR No. 235/21, U/S 363 IPC at PS Chhawla. After that, a team was formed.

The team collected all available details related to the missing girls and utilised technical surveillance.

The team also searched in various shelter homes, temples, parks and all steps were taken to find any clue about the missing girls.

It was continuously in touch with neighbours, family members, and relatives of the missing girls.

The persistent efforts of the team bore fruit when the girls were traced from New Delhi Railway Station and safely handed over to their parents.
Kolkata, May 27 : The Tibetan Government-in-Exile (TGiE) will offer a "mutually beneficial" solution to the "Sino-Tibet conflict" through negotiated dialogue with China, its new Sikyong (President) Penpa Tshering has said.

Soon after being sworn in as Sikyong of TGiE based at Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh, Tshering expressed commitment to the Dalai Lama's 'Middle Path' that seeks genuine autonomy, not independence, for Tibet.

But China-watchers say the Tibetan exiles stand little chance of getting Beijing to negotiate the status of the erstwhile kingdom it occupied in 1950-51.

"If Xi Jinping's China refuses to recognise the 'one country, two systems' it committed to uphold in Hong Kong, there is no way it will allow negotiations on the status of Tibet," said Gaganjit Singh, former deputy chief of India's Defense Intelligence Agency.

Singh, a retired major-general who has closely followed China and commanded Indian military formations on the Line of Actual Control, said "the Chinese believe in the ultimate Hanification of Tibet".

"They want to create a mixed race by encouraging marriage between Tibetans and Han Chinese. So they see the exiles as hostile because they keep alive the Tibetan peoplehood," Singh told IANS.

But sources in the Tibetan exile government told IANS on Thursday that Penpa Tshering will stick to his "resolute decision to tread the Middle Path espoused by the Dalai Lama".

He said the Dalai Lama's Middle Path commanded high degree of support in and outside Tibet and had been unanimously approved by the Tibetan Parliament in Exile.

"Based on which (Middle Way approach), we will reach out to the Chinese government to find a mutually beneficial, negotiated, non-violent solution to the Sino-Tibet conflict," Tshering said.

"We hope that this in turn shall set a good example in resolving conflicts around the world," he added.

Senior Chinese officials had nine rounds of talks, including one informal, with the 14th Dalai Lama's representatives between 2002 and 2010. But the negotiations have been stalled since 2010 and Xi's rise has only hardened Beijing's position.

The Dalai Lama set up the Tibetan Government in Exile or the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) on April 29, 1959, a few weeks after his arrival in India after escaping from Tibet, eight years after it was occupied by the Chinese People's Liberation Army.

The CTA calls itself the "continuation of the government of independent Tibet".

Tsering's parents were among the first to flee after the Dalai Lama's escape following Tibet's occupation by China.

They settled in Bylakuppe in Karnataka and raised their children, including Tsering.

Tshering recently won the elections to the office of the Sikyong of the TGiE (or the CTA) and took office on Thursday, succeeding Lobsang Sangay.

The Tibetans living in exile in India and elsewhere in the world took part in the two rounds of elections held globally.

Tsering said that he and the Kashag (Council of Ministers) also represented the voice of the Tibetans living in China-ruled Tibet.

"We shall monitor and conduct thorough study of the basic issues concerning environmental destruction and protection of the Tibetan national identity inside Tibet. We shall not dither from pointing out the gross mistakes of the Chinese government's policies and programmes and seek to redress, withdraw or amend the wrong policies," Tshering said.

He also spoke of "every effort to seek increased interaction between Tibetans in Tibet and those in exile and work towards realising the wish of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to visit China".

What has added to the significance of the election of the Sikyong this year is that the democratic exercise by the exiled Tibetans got endorsement from the US last year.

Late last year, the US Congress passed the Tibetan Policy and Support Act (TPSA) of 2020, acknowledging the legitimacy of both the Tibetan Parliament in Exile (TpiE) and the TGiE or the CTA.

The TPSA 2020, which then US President Donald Trump signed into law, acknowledged the Central Tibetan Administration as the "legitimate institution reflecting the aspirations" of the Tibetan diaspora around the world with Sikyong as its President.

Tsering was congratulated by the US State Department, the first time the US officially congratulated the winner of the CTA Sikyong polls.

The new TGiE chief was also congratulated by the Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi.

India has maintained silence, as it so far has never officially acknowledged the existence of the TGiE or the CTA, despite allowing it to run from its territory for decades.

The Narendra Modi-led government sparked a major controversy by inviting the Tibetan Sikyong to its swearing-in ceremony in 2014 in a move that had upset Beijing.

It added fuel to fire by quietly organising a conference of Tibetan exiles, Uighur leaders and those representing the Falungongs and the Tiananmem generations at Mcleodganj.

Beijing does not recognise the elections to the Sikyong and the TPiE and has persistently pushed India to shut down the TGiE on its territory.

It has been accusing the Dalai Lama as well as the TGiE of running a secessionist campaign against China, besides describing them as 'splittist'.

New Delhi did tacitly encourage the Dalai Lama to lead the exiled community to embrace democracy gradually - starting with electing the Parliament-in-Exile and then moving on to directly elect the leader of the TGiE.

During the 2011 elections, the Dalai Lama had officially announced that he would be delegating his political powers to whoever would be elected democratically to the top office of the TGiE - a move apparently aimed at avoiding a leadership vacuum and keeping the struggle against China's rule in Tibet alive after the octogenarian monk passes away.

The newly-elected Sikyong and his government in exile will have to deal with the succession issue when the present Dalai Lama is no more.

"It is high priority for both the US and the CTA to get a new Dalai Lama in keeping with our traditions minus any Chinese interference," said a top CTA official.
Srinagar, May 27 : Seven men linked with proscribed terrorist outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) have been arrested from Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district, officials said on Thursday.

They have been identified as Sajad Ahmad Sheikh, resident of Pinglish Tral, Adil Hussain Sheikh, Mohammad Iqbal Baba, both residents of Tral-e-Bala, Yasir Amin Dar, resident of Noorabad Tral-e-Bala, Showkat Ahmad Sheikh, Ubaid Ahmad Mir, both residents of Batagund Tral and Adil Rashid Bhat, resident of Kranzbal Tral.

Police said that the arrested terrorist associates were motivating youth to join the terrorist ranks. Besides, they were also involved in providing logistics, shelter and other kind of support to terrorists of JeM and helping them in transporting arms/ammunition in Tral and Awantipora areas.

"The arrested terror associates were also in touch with Pakistan-based self style terror commanders through different social media platforms. Incriminating material has also been recovered from them," police said.
In a politically sensitive decision, the Maharashtra government on Thursday revoked the 6-year-old prohibition imposed in Chandrapur district of the Vidarbha region, an official said here.

The decision to lift the liquor ban in the district - enforced since April 2015 - was taken at a Cabinet meeting presided over by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray.

This reverses the move by the then Bharatiya Janata Party-led regime of chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, who has criticised the Maha Vikas Aghadi government's move, terming it as 'regrettable', besides evoking mixed reactions from different sections of society.

Now only two districts - Wardha and Gadchiroli - remain 'dry' in the state, the former owing to its close connections with Mahatma Gandhi and the latter due to public demand in the Maoist-hit district since 1992.

Justifying the government decision, an official said that it was mainly due to the burgeoning sales of illicit liquor and growing crimes in the district witnessed in the past 6 years, when all liquor licences were cancelled.

However, after the ban, the former BJP-led government had assured to appoint a committee to study issue following a discussion in the state assembly in July 2018.

Set up in January this year, the 13-member expert committee, headed by retired Principal Secretary Ramanath Jha had submitted its report to the MVA government on March 9, 2021 with its recommendations.

Among the findings were that the prohibition in Chandrapur was largely unsuccessful as it spurred the sale of illicit liquor which was a health hazard besides rampant blackmarketing and inter-district smuggling of alcohol in the district.

The government's potential earning from the sale of legal liquor had been severely hit while anti-social or criminal elements benefited hugely from the prohibition.

Another worrying factor was the increasing involvement of women and children in the illicit liquor trade in the district, it pointed out.

As per official data, prior to prohibition, there were 16,132 cases registered between 2010-2014 which shot up to 40,381 between 2016-2019.

While there were only 1,729 cases against women before the liquor ban, they shot up to 4,042 after prohibition was implemented, besides a growing number of children being used for the illicit liquor trade.

This resulted in many public organisations, citizens and locals voting in favour of lifting the ban on liquor which the Jha Committee accepted and recommended.

The state lost Excise Duty of around Rs.1,606 crore from Chandrapur district in the past five years due to prohibition, besides loss of Rs.964-crore due to a drop in Sales Tax income, resulting in a total loss of Rs.2,570-crore to the state exchequer.

The Committee also said that many village panchayats, women's groups, religious organisations , lawyers, media and citizens sent nearly 243,627 lakh petitions or appeals to the Collector demanding the ban should be revoked, while only 25,876 wanted prohibition to continue in the district.
Guwahati, May 27 : The Numaligarh Refinery (NRL), which was commissioned as per the provisions of the 1985 Assam Accord, would increase its capacity from the existing 3 million metric tonnes (MMT) to 9 MMT, besides bringing 6 MMT crude oil to Assam from Odisha, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Thursday.

Addressing the media here, Sarma said that after NRL brings the crude oil from Paradeep in Odisha through pipeline, it would be refined in Assam and then the oil would be exported to Bangladesh, Myanmar and other Indian states.

He said the crude oil from Paradeep would substantially raise the capacity of the three refineries in Assam - Bongaigaon, Guwahati and NRL.

Earlier, Assam's crude oil used to be sent to Barauni, but now 6 MMT crude oil would come to the state.

Accompanied by Assam Finance Minister Ajanta Neog, Industry and Commerce Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary and Minister for Implementation of Assam Accord Atul Bora, the Chief Minister said that the capacity of NRL would be increased from the existing 3 MMT to 9 MMT by 2024 and the Central government has given the necessary approval for this purpose.

He said the Assam government's stake in the NRL would be augmented from the existing 12.35 per cent to 26 per cent, for which it would have to invest Rs 2,187 crore.

Set up in eastern Assam's Duliajan, the NRL was commissioned as per the provisions of the 1985 Assam Accord, signed after six years of Assam agitation launched to eject "illegal immigrants" from the state.

Sarma said that currently the Assam government has been getting Rs 500 crore from the NRL as royalty and after its capacity enhancement, the royalty would be Rs 1,500 crore annually.

"We have to increase our non-tax revenue. Assam can survive on its own earnings for four months. Hence, we have to depend on the share of central taxes, various central sector schemes and royalty from oil and gas.

"We should keep on boosting oil and gas companies for the betterment of the future of Assam. Oil and gas companies are contributing a large amount to Assam's economy," the Chief Minister pointed out.

He said that several gas and oil based projects would come up in Assam in the next few years and added that by using bamboo resources, ethanol would be produced in the NRL complex.

The Chief Minister also said that various oil and gas companies, including Oil India Limited, have contributed Rs 12 crore for Covid management in Assam.
Thiruvananthapuram, May 27 : Kerala's new Tourism Minister P. A. Mohamed Riyas on Thursday assured the stake holders that the government will unveil various projects focusing on the revival of the vital sector ravaged by the Covid-19 pandemic, including special marketing campaigns.

Riyas, a first-time legislator and son-in-law of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, said that the government will closely work together with the industry with the aim of doubling tourists' arrival by 2025, and hoped that 2022 will be turn out to be a "Covid-19 Free Tourism Year." "The government will implement all possible measures to ease the current problems being faced by the industry. Special marketing campaigns will be conducted once the second wave of of Covid-19 recedes," he said, in his address at a virtual meeting of representatives of 18 stakeholders in the tourism sector.

The meeting was convened to elicit suggestions for revival of the industry that has been hit badly by the pandemic and to work out plans for an impressive comeback.

The participants explained to the Minister how the pandemic had resulted in a severe setback for the entrepreneurs and all others engaged in the sector. They noted that unlike any other state, the Kerala government had provided total support and encouragement to the industry during the crisis.

"The roads to tourism centres will be developed and more tourism circuits will be formed by connecting destinations. Through the socially-committed Responsible Tourism, the benefits of tourism sector will be made available to more people. The government's goal is to support the kind of tourism that brings benefits to entrepreneurs, tourists and local community alike," added the Minister.

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Jaipur, May 27 : The BJPs Rajasthan unit chief Satish Poonia on Thursday accused the state government of distorting the Covid death numbers in Jodhpur, the home constituency of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, besides lamenting the "pathetic" healthcare facilities in the state.

Poonia also wondered if this is the same 'Rajasthan model' that was praised by interim Congress President Sonia Gandhi and her daughter Priyanka Gandhi.

Accusing the Ashok Gehlot government of hiding the real death figures in Jodhpur, Poonia said the claims made by the government have been proven false looking at the large crowds thronging the places from where death certificates are issued.

While the government said that only 618 people died of Covid in Jodhpur, the real figures are around 2,912 in 433 villages of the district, which reveal a huge discrepancy, Poonia claimed.

The BJP leader also said that the CM is deceiving the people in the name of distributing free medicines, when the reality is that people are facing acute shortage of drugs and besides being denied admission to hospitals under the Chiranjivi Yojana, an insurance scheme launched by state government for the residents of Rajasthan.

"Since the beginning, we have been demanding that CHCs and PHCs should be fully-equipped with medical resources to improve the health system in the state, but no attention has been paid to our requests. There is still time and the rural medical infrastructure can be improved by streamlining resources," Poonia said.

He also said that regular medicine supply should be ensured in the rural belt and private hospitals should be directed to treat the beneficiaries of Chiranjivi Yojana.

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As the United States prepares to pull out the entirety of its remaining 2,500 troops from Afghanistan (Liptak, 2021) - a move fast being followed by NATO allies in the war-tattered nation (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation [NATO], 2021a, 2021b) - the onus for security and stability will fall on the regions neighbours.

However, this is a window of opportunity in which India can lead the way. It will not be an easy or simple process. As the Taliban become increasingly assertive in the ongoing peace talks and potentially set to govern the country again someday, it is vital that New Delhi carves a channel for diplomatic dealings.

So far there have been some evident efforts in that direction. Indian officials are taking an increasingly visible role in the various meetings concerning Afghanistan's future, of which Taliban members have been party. New Delhi will attend the ten-day Istanbul conference starting this week (Aljazeera, 2021; Did Press Agency, 2021).

Of course, India's history with the Taliban - for instance when it was poised at the Kabul helm from 1996 to 2001 - has been a turbulent one. This is not surprising given the Taliban's protracted policy of directly and indirectly supporting Pakistani terrorist groups, a policy which has resulted among other things in various skirmishes in Jammu and Kashmir.

Moreover, it is hard to forget the painful hijacking of an Indian Airlines flight in 1999 by five Taliban gunmen, resulting in one passenger being fatally stabbed and 17 being wounded (Joshi, 2020). Allegations of involvement by the Pakistani ISI inflamed the aftermath.

And certainly, the Taliban's perchance for violence and the ruthless targeting of both Afghan forces and civilians in recent years reminds all the sobering reality that their overarching tactical approach remains unchanged. Furthermore and of course, India's leaders cannot enthusiastically align with a political faction that ideologically limits the education and vocational opportunities for women and endorses extremist values that amount to violence and terrorism.

The diplomatic dance with the Taliban must therefore be delicate, but not dismissive. Uncomfortable facts are facts nonetheless, and India will need to work with the reality on the ground if - or when - the Taliban resume a potent palace position.

On the plus side, the Taliban's top brass has not - for some two decades - made explicit anti-New Delhi threats. They were swift to release, following quiet negotiations, the seven captured Indian engineers working in Afghanistan three years ago (The Economic Times, 2019).

The organisation has also refrained from sabotaging or attacking India-backed development projects in Afghanistan - all of which should be perceived as positive tools for the communications arsenal. The success in this area may have stemmed in large part from New Delhi's non-militarized Afghan strategy.

Rather than bolstering Kabul's security endeavours with boots on the ground, India's lawmakers instead opted for a "soft power" approach - focusing its support spending on economic and infrastructure projects, as well as community-centric development and humanitarian aid. The war-splattered nation is the second-largest beneficiary of Indian assistance (Vivek, 2017), shoring up a positive perception of India among much of the Afghan citizenry - a critical puzzle piece for future influence in the embattled nation.

Indeed, India has built up a robust portfolio of strategic interests in Afghanistan - despite its conflicts and volatility. A good example is the $100 million enlargement of the Chabahar port (Zee News, 2014) to serve as an import-export core between Central Asia and Afghanistan.

By opting to play a more pervasive part in Afghanistan, India also stands to secure even closer strategic ties to the United States. Washington has vowed to maintain its diplomatic and humanitarian endeavours in Afghanistan after the military exit, and President Biden has expressed a desire to see neighbouring nations play more prominent roles.

US State Department spokesperson Ned Price announced this month that Secretary Tony Blinken and his Indian counterpart S. Jaishankar would work together in advocating Afghanistan cohesion. This of course constitutes the outgrowth of a long and trusting affinity (The Week, 2021).

India can also coordinate its strategy and act as something of an interlocutor for all countries directly impacted by security affairs in Afghanistan - China, Russia, Pakistan, Turkey, Qatar and beyond.

Moreover, the likes of ISIS-K, the Da'esh outfit operating on Afghan terrain, appears relatively small at this stage; there are an estimated 19 other terrorist outfits thought to have a footprint inside the country (Arian, 2017). The Taliban may, in the end, turn out to be a necessary bastion against groups that pose threats both within and outside of Afghanistan's borders.

However, when assuming responsibilities, India must also be mindful of maintaining a healthy distance from Kabul's internal security affairs - ramping up developmental support with the goal of long-term stability while giving space for Afghanistan to grow and take shape on its own.

And even though it remains to be seen whether the Taliban takes an increased focus on the contentious Kashmir issue, Suhail Shaheen - a representative for the Taliban's political wing in Afghanistan - has previously taken to Twitter to espouse that in their policy it "is clear that it does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries." (Gupta, 2020) For its part, another spokesperson for the Taliban's political wing - officially termed the Islamic Emirate - also pledged (Gupta 2021) this past week that its foreign policy would "seek positive relations with all its neighbours" on the basic principles of "respect and interaction" (Gupta, 2021).

"The Islamic Emirate does not allow anyone to use the soil of Afghanistan against another country, group or individual. It should also be made clear that the Islamic Emirate will never allow anyone to turn the soil of Afghanistan into an arena of proxy conflicts and disputes," spokesperson Muhammad Naeem Wardak told CNN News18's Manoj Gupta (Gupta, 2021), while also doubling down that they do not intend to interfere in any cross-border disputes, including those involving Pakistan.

"The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan calls on all to assist the Afghan people in achieving independence and freedom, in the light of the values of the people, in the establishment of an independent Islamic system and the reconstruction of the country." Thus, while India cannot control who takes power in Kabul, it is in India's best interests to keep the door open to whomever wins the stakes in the months and years to come. Keeping in mind the Taliban's tenacity over the past two decades of US occupation, and the fact that it is a force which is here to stay.

(The writer a war crimes investigator and author of "Only Cry for the Living: Memos from Inside the ISIS Battlefield". The view expressed are peronal)
Guwahati, May 27 : An Assam Congress MLA was attacked on Thursday by suspected land encroachers from Nagaland, when the legislator went to the Dissoi Valley Reserve Forest under Mariani Range in Jorhat district.

Congress MLA Rupjyoti Kurmi told the media that land encroachers from Nagaland attacked him when he went to the forest area to enquire about encroachment of Assam's forest land by some people from Nagaland.

"The Assam police personnel accompanying me, the local residents and my two personal security officers (PSOs) protected me from the attack. The land encroachers started firing as soon as we entered the area. The Assam police personnel and my PSOs retaliated as we narrowly escaped," Kurmi said.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed concern over the firing incident that took place at the New Sonowal Border Outpost (BOP) near Assam-Nagaland inter-state border.

An official statement said that the Chief Minister termed the incident as unfortunate which can jeopardise the relation between the two neighbouring states.

Sarma directed Special DGP G.P. Singh to rush to the bordering area to conduct an inquiry.
Dhaka, May 27 : The world has not forgotten the plight of the Rohingya people and the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is determined to ensure a better future for them, the UN said on Thursday quoting UNGA President Volkan Bozkir, who on Wednesday interacted with the representatives from the Rohingya community in Coxs Bazar.

Bozkir paid an official visit to Bangladesh on May 25-26 following an invitation from the Bangladesh government.

Upon his arrival in Dhaka on May 25, Bozkir met Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and discussed the plight of the Rohingya people, the situation in Myanmar, the impact of climate change, the importance of human-centred development, gender equality and women's empowerment, and culture of peace and peacekeeping.

The UNGA President expressed determination to ensure a better future for the forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals, who took temporary shelter in Bangladesh amid ethnic cleansing and genocide in the Rakhine state.

On Wednesday, Bozkir travelled to Cox's Bazar, where he met with the representatives of the Rohingya people. He was joined there by Shah Rezwan Hayat, Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner, Mia Seppo, UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh, and camp authorities.

During the visit, Bozkir was briefed on camp management by Hayat and the camp authorities. Following this, the President surveyed the camp from an aerial position from the watch tower of Camp-8W.

Bozkir then visited Camp 9, which was impacted by fire recently, where he met the healthcare workers besides inspecting the facilities at the Turkish Field Hospital there.

Subsequently, the UNGA President visited the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum on the occasion of the 100th birth centenary year of Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

He also separately met Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen and the topics of discussion included the situation of the Rohingya people, climate change, Covid response, LDC graduation, south-south cooperation, and the 2030 agenda for sustainable development.

While in Dhaka, Bozkir delivered the sixth lecture in the Bangabandhu lecture series at the Foreign Service Academy of Bangladesh, which was focused on Bangladesh and the United Nations.

To round off the day, the UNGA President met with the UN Country Team in Bangladesh, led by Resident Coordinator of USA, Mia Seppo. Here he received a briefing from the representatives of the UN agencies on the crucial works of the United Nations in Bangladesh.
Bengaluru, May 27 : Karnataka Tourism Minister C.P. Yogeshwara, the one-time blue-eyed boy of Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, is the latest in the party to rebel against him, saying the present dispensation in the state cannot be termed as the BJP's government but "a coalition setup governed by all three parties".

Addressing reporters on the sidelines of a state cabinet meeting here, Yogeshwara said that he had gone to New Delhi to reveal everything about him facing humiliation at every possible level in the government.

"Do we have a single party government here? When we took all the pains to form a government in mid-2019, we all presumed we were forming a BJP government but what we have today is a coalition of three parties here," he said angrily.

Asked to elaborate, Yogeshwara said that he certainly was not talking about 17 MLAs who have come from JD-S and the Congress, "but in the present set up, it (the government) is adjusting politics to reigning supreme at the cost of BJP and its workers and leaders".

"In my own case (Channapatna Assembly seat), the BJP has adjustments with my arch rivals (JD-S leader, H.D. Kumarswamy and Congress' state President D.K. Shivakumar). If this continues any further, would it not affect electoral prospects in 2023? Should I not bring this to our party top brass in Delhi?" he asked.

In a veiled attack at BJP state Vice President and Yediyurappa's youngest son, B. Y. Vijayendra, Yogeshwara said that after becoming minister, he realised how difficult it was to handle the burden of commands being issued in the name of Yediyurappa. "How long can one tolerate such humiliation at all levels?" he asked.

Responding to a question, the minister said that he knows his limitations very well.

"I do not know how these reports are about me trying to upstage Yediyurappa in the state. This is far-fetched from any stretch of imagination. Replacement of a leader like Yediyurappa cannot happen with a person like me. I still maintain that my trip to Delhi was express my issues in front of party's central leaders and not to seek any replacement for Yediyurappa," he said.

Yediyurappa, in mid-December 2020, stood firm on inducting Yogeshwara as a minister despite several of key aides and supporters opposing the move.

Yogeshwara is said to have played a crucial role in identifying 17 legislators from Congress and Janata Dal-S to switch over, toppling the Congress-JD-S coalition government headed by Kumaraswamy.

On January 13, Yediyurappa decided to expand his 17-month old cabinet for the third time and Yogeshwara was sworn in as minister along with six others. Even as the ceremony was on, Yediyurappa's bitterest critic in the party, Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, had alleged that Yogeshwara was inducted into the cabinet after he succeeded in "blackmailing" Yediyurappa and Vijayendra, using a CD containing "sordid details of their dealings".
Hyderabad, May 27 : Junior doctors in government-run hospitals across Telangana on Thursday night called off their strike.

The junior doctors, who had been on strike since Wednesday morning, resumed duties from 9 p.m. on Thursday.

The Telangana Junior Doctors Association (TJUDA) announced that they are calling off the strike keeping in view patients' health as their first priority and their responsibility to serve them in present pandemic crisis.

The Association, which held talks with Principal Secretary, Medical and Health, and Director of Medical Education, thanked Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao and health authorities for addressing stipend hike and also allocation of beds for doctors and their family members in the Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS).

"The only issue that was not completely addressed about ex gratia for martyred HCWs from state government side. Health officials gave us verbal assurance that alternative for ex gratia will be discussed with Hon'ble CM. We hope this issue will be addressed by Hon'ble CM as early as possible honouring martyred HCWs and support to their dependents," it said.

About 4,000 junior doctors were on strike to press for their demands. They began the strike on Wednesday with the boycott of Covid-19 and non-Covid-19 elective duties and intensified it on Thursday with the boycott of emergency duties.

The TJUDA was demanding 15 per cent hike for junior doctors with retrospective effect from January 2020, ex gratia of Rs 50 lakh for family members of junior doctors who died of Covid-19, allotment of beds in NIMS for healthcare workers including junior doctors and their family members for free treatment, and 10 per cent risk allowance.

Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao accepted on Wednesday announced a 15 per cent increase in the honorarium for senior resident doctors. He also extended the enhanced honorarium to the medical students who are engaged in the Covid-19 duties after their three years of MBBS course. He also ordered that medical facilities for junior doctors and their family members at NIMS be further strengthened.

Chandrasekhar Rao also appealed to junior doctors to immediately call off the strike and return to the duty. He said going on strike during the pandemic is not proper.

He assured the government is ready to address justified demands of the junior doctors.

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Bengaluru, May 27 : Following widespread criticism from its own party MLAs and several petitions pending in various courts, the BJP-led Karnataka cabinet on Thursday made a U-turn by suspending the controversial absolute sale of 3,667 acres of land to JSW Steel Ltd in Ballari.

On April 26, the cabinet headed by Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa had decided to sell off a whopping 3,667 acres land to JSW Steel, a deal it had opposed in 2019 when it was in the opposition and the ruling Congress-JD(S) coalition government had favoured the lease-cum-sale agreement.

"One of the major decisions of today's cabinet meeting is to hold back the land deal with JSW company that was taken in the cabinet meeting on April 26," Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Basavaraj Bommai, told reporters while briefing the cabinet decisions.

The decision came after some ruling party MLAs wrote to Yediyurappa earlier this month, appealing the state government to drop the land deal.

An activist had also filed a PIL on this and based on a high court direction, notices were served to all the cabinet ministers.

"The cabinet, in its wisdom looking into the pending cases, has taken this decision," Bommai said, noting that a petition on the issue is also pending in the Supreme Court.

The deal was originally proposed in 1996 when JD(S) supremo H.D. Deve Gowda was the Chief Minister of Karnataka.

It was revived in 2005-06, when the Congress-JD(S) coalition government headed by then Chief Minister N. Dharam Singh and Deputy Chief Minister Siddaramaiah came to power and decided to give 2,000.58 acres of land to JSW Steel on a lease-cum-sale arrangement.

Again in 2007, when H.D. Kumaraswamy was the Chief Minister in an alliance with the BJP with Yediyurappa as the Deputy CM, another 1,666.73 acres of land was allotted to the company at Toranagallu, Kurekuppa, Moosenayakanahalli and Yarabanahalli villages in Ballari district.

In 2019, the Congress-JD(S) coalition government headed by Kumaraswamy came to power and decided to convert the lease into a sale. But the opposition BJP led by Yediyurappa had vociferously opposed it, accusing the state's coalition government of selling the land at a throwaway price of Rs 1.22-1.50 lakh per acre.

Yediyurappa had even accused the Congress-JD(S) coalition of getting 'kickbacks' for the sale of land.

After the BJP came to power in July 2019, Yediyurappa referred this issue to a cabinet sub-committee headed by Industries Minister Jagadish Shettar, which 'recommended the government to execute the sale deed'. On April 26, the Karnataka cabinet decided to execute an absolute sale deed.

As soon as this decision came into public domain, BJP MLAs Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, who is one of the harshest critics of Yediyurappa, Arvind Bellad, K. Poornima, Uday Garudachar and others wrote a strongly-worded letter to the Chief Minister, terming the cabinet decision as "against the interest of the state", calling it contrary to the BJP's fight against corruption.
Bengaluru, May 27 : The Bengaluru Central Crime Branch (CCB) police on Thursday arrested two more persons in a case related to cash for bed scam in hospitals.

Joint Commissioner of Police, Crime, Sandeep Patil identified the two as Yashwanth Kumar M., 21, and Varun S., 20 with the latter found to be working at the BBMP South Zone war room.

Beds were allotted through the centralised system of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP).

"One of the accused, Varun, was working in the BBMP South zone war room, and was learnt to have shared patient numbers with his friend Yashwanth. Yashwanth then used to contact the patients referred to demand money for bed booking," Patil said.

The CCB sleuths have also arrested 34-year-old Babu, who is said to be a close aide of BJP Bommanahalli MLA Satish Reddy in the same case.

With these two arrests, the police has so far arrested 11 persons till date.

The cash for bed scam came to limelight when Bangalore South BJP MP, Tejasvi Surya, along with uncle and Basavanagudi MLA, L. S. Ravi Subramnya, Bommanalli MLA, Satish Reddy and Chikpet MLA Uday Garaudchar, had stormed into BBMP south zone war room on May 2, to expose the "cash for bed scam". However, with arrest of Babu on Tuesday, who is said to be close aide of Reddy, the said scam has caused severe embarrassment to ruling BJP.

As soon as this expose came into limelight, Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa had ordered CCB probe into the scam.
Bengaluru, May 27 : Within hours of Assam police posting a video showing a young girl being sexually tortured and assaulted by five men that went viral, the Bengaluru police on Thursday nabbed four persons in connection with the case, claiming that all of them were Bangaldeshis.

The police at Ramamurthy Nagar said in a statement that the video was shot around 10 days ago, and the five men, believed to be Bangaladeshis, were involved in an international human trafficking racket.

While the police have not revealed their names yet, an officer said that that all the four accused had brutally assaulted the 21-year-old woman after raping her.
New Delhi, May 27 : The Delhi Police nabbed two persons on Thursday for allegedly beating stray dog to death.

South East Delhi DCP, R.P. Meena, said that a video went viral on social media on Thursday morning in which two youth could be seen beating a street dog mercilessly with sticks.

Meena said that Gaurav Gupta, the animal welfare officer of People for Animal, an NGO, filed a complaint in this regard.

Subsequently, a case was registered under the relevant sections of IPC, Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, and Epidemics Act at the Okhla Industrial Area police station.

"During the course of investigation, one of the accused was apprehended. The other accused person, identified as Jaivinder aka Bhola, has also been arrested," Meena said.
Bengaluru, May 28 : Karnataka Congress on Thursday sought the arrest of ruling BJP's tainted MLA Ramesh Jarkiholi, who resigned as minister in early March after a purported sleaze video of him with a woman came to light.

"We urge state Home Minister Basavaraj Bommai to arrest Jarkiholi, as he was caught in the sleaze video with a woman, who accused him of raping her on the pretext of getting her a government job," state Congress President D.K. Shivakumar told reporters here.

Jarkiholi resigned on March 3 as state Water Resources Minister, a day after the sleaze video went viral on social media. It was also aired on local news channels on March 2.

Jarkiholi got re-elected from the Gokak Assembly seat in Belagavi district after he defected from the Congress and joined the BJP in November 2019. He became a cabinet minister in February 2020.

Outraged by the state government's alleged indifference to the victim's plight, Shivakumar said it is a matter of shame that Jarkiholi is allowed to roam free even after state police charged him under Section 376 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for the alleged rape, based on a complaint filed by the woman.

"Though an FIR was filed against Jarkiholi on the victim's complaint in mid-March and he was interrogated by the investigation team, he remains at large, as the police seem to be acting on the ruling party's instructions, rather than complying with the law of the land," said Shivakumar.

Even as the state legislative assembly was in the Budget Session during March, Jarkiholi went to Gokak and got admitted to a hospital after he tested Covid positive and was advised rest at home after being discharged.

"As the honour of the state police department is at stake, its officers should not delay such an important case in public interest and arrest the accused for investigation and trial, as the victim and her family have been denied justice even after she deposed before the investigation team and submitted evidence against Jarkiholi," added Shivakumar.
New Delhi, May 28 : Two people have been arrested from Greater Noida for cheating over 50 Covid patients and their family members on pretext of providing home delivery of oxygen cylinders, Delhi Police said on Thursday.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Shahdara, R. Sathiyasundaram said that Vivek Vihar police station personnel arrested the two fraudsters -- Ritik Kumar Singh, of Bihar's Ara district and Sandeep Panday, a resident of Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur -- who used to make promises to provide oxygen cylinder at doorsteps, received money through digital transactions, and then, disappeared.

He said that police received a complaint on May 2 regarding online fraud on the pretext of providing an oxygen cylinder.

"Complainant Sanchet Aggarwal stated that his mother was ill and he was in need of an oxygen cylinder. Accordingly, he contacted numbers available on Instagram of those promising to provide oxygen cylinders at home on payment.

"He and his father paid Rs 14,000 through Paytm for two cylinders but no oxygen cylinders were provided to him. These numbers were found switched off later," the DCP said.

A case was registered and a team was formed to nab the accused.

The DCP said said during the course of the investigation, bank statements and Paytm details of the complainant were obtained.

"On the scrutiny of bank and Paytm statement, it was revealed that fraudulent transaction was credited into a Paytm wallet which was registered on the name of Sandeep Tea and was found linked with above Paytm account. All the fraudulent amount of Rs 14,000 was further transferred into an account of Union Bank of India branch in UP's Ghazipur, which was registered in the name of one Panday," he said.

He further said that during probe, it was also found that a mobile number is also issued in the name of Panday.

"What was interesting interesting the fraudulent amount was further transferred into another bank account of Central Bank of India's Chowk Bazar Branch, Arrah which belonged to Singh and another account of Axis Bank in the name of Panday," the DCP said, adding that on the basis of mobile phone location, local intelligence and hard work put forth by the investigating team, both accused were apprehended.

The DCP said that during questioning, Singh, who is the main accused, along with Panday induced those whose family members were Covid patients to pay for oxygen cylinders, promising speedy home delivery.

"They got their mobile number go viral on social media -- Instagram, Facebook, Whatsapp -- for the supply of oxygen. They received many phone calls for getting the oxygen cylinder and received fraudulent amounts in their bank account by cheating with the same modus operandi and led a lavish lifestyle," he said.

A total fraudulently acquited amount of Rs 2.43 lakh was found credited in the account of Pandey and Rs 4.23 lakh in the account of Singh in the above Paytm and bank accounts.

The DCP further said that Singh claims to be national President of "India Youth Icon Team", headquartered in Greater Noida and having 18 lakh youths in eight states as active members/followers.

Singh also said that he runs a consultancy for college admission through a company in which he is one of the partners, while the other partner is the Vice President of the above organisation, the DCP said.

Meanwhile, Pandey is working as a property dealer in Greater Noida, and also claims to be running a wheat flour mill business in Greater Noida along with his friends.

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New Delhi, May 28 : Even as India is trying to extradite fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi, who is wanted in Rs 13,500 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case and was captured in Dominica, his lawyer Vijay Agarwal claimed that the Gitanjali group chairman was forced to get into a vessel from Antigua and he was taken to Dominica.

He also claimed that Choksi was kept there and then on Monday he was taken to the police station but the news of his was broken only on Wednesday and there are marks on his body of the force.

His remarks came after Choksi, who is wanted by the CBI and the ED in connection with the over Rs 13,500 crore PNB loan fraud case, has reportedly been taken into custody in Dominica.

Choksi was reported missing on Sunday from Antigua and Barbuda, where he had taken citizenship, sparking a manhunt for the fugitive businessman.

Agarwal told IANS, "Lawyers for Antigua and Dominica have been trying to have legal interview with Choksi as per his constitutional rights in Dominica but they were denied any access to him. After great effort, they have been able to speak to him for two minutes." The advocate said, "Choksi has narrated his horrifying experience which is an eye-opener and vindicates my stand that he would not have gone from Antigua voluntarily. Choksi has said that he was forced to get into a vessel from Jolly Harbor in Antigua and he was taken to Dominica." Agarwal also said that Choksi was kept there, and then on Monday he was taken to the police station. Since then he's been there and this news to the world was broken only on Wednesday.

He claimed that there are marks on Choksi's body of the force.

"There is something fishing and I guess it was a strategy to take him to another so that there are chances of sending him back to India. So I don't know what forces are operating. The time will tell," he said.

Agarwal also said that legal team has filed habeas corpus petition in Dominica for Choksi and have also highlighted deprivation of access to him and deprivation of constitutional rights to legal assistance.

On Wednesday, Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne has said that the fugitive diamantaire "needs to return to India" where he can face the criminal charges levelled against him.

Antigua News Room, a media outlet, quoted Browne as telling journalists in Antigua and Barbuda: "We asked them not to repatriate him to Antigua. He needs to return to India where he can face the criminal charges levelled against him." The Antigua Observer also said that Browne has reportedly told the media in India that he has asked Dominican government to detain Choksi for entering their country illegally. "Browne has asked that officials in Dominica make Choksi persona non grata and have him deported directly to India," the Antigua Observer reported.

Choksi, an accused in the over Rs 13,500 crore PNB fraud case along with his nephew Nirav Modi, has been residing in Antigua and Berbuda since January 4, 2018.

The CBI and ED, which have filed separate chargesheets in the case, are trying for the extradition of Choksi.
Virtual receptionist firm Abby Connect is raffling off a TV to employees who get vaccinated Connection is really what drives our company culture, so we want to do what we can to all be together again.

Leading virtual receptionist and answering service provider, Abby Connect (http://www.abby.com), has many employees itching to get back to their normal way of doing things  holding exciting and inclusive in-person meetings, providing delicious group lunches and meals, and celebrations, picnics and overall office fun.

Co-Director of the Abby Way department, Marlene Cosain, explained that Our goal is to create a safe environment for all of our employees, and to get back to as close to normal as possible. Connection is really what drives our company culture, so we want to do what we can to all be together again. We want to do company team builders again, paint parties, archery competitions, meetings in person, meals, and more.

Abby Connects team hopes to inspire other companies to help people who want to be vaccinated get vaccinated. Cosain followed up Abby Connect is a no judgement zone - we dont want anyone to feel badly or judged if they decide to not get vaccinated. Its not a requirement, just simply a fun way to inspire those who want to get their vaccine to do it.

In 2020, Abby Connect rode the tides of a city shutdown, some remote working, and many months of socially-distanced working, all while growing the company in clients and staff, and answering over 1 million calls for small businesses who were also trying to get through a challenging year. Celebrations, delicious group meals, events and gatherings were held off for over a year.

Abby Connects leaders wanted to make sure that employees dont have to use their own accrued PTO (paid time off) or not be paid for the hours they spend getting to and waiting in line for their vaccine during their normal work hours, so they will be given up to 4 hours additional PTO for each shot. Cosain said We know that its possible that employees are reluctant to get vaccinated because they dont want to miss work, get docked on their attendance, or have a smaller check once pay day comes. We want to make sure they feel taken care of because their safety and health, and that of their families, too, is important to us. Weve already seen employees take is up on our offer.

As a second incentive, the staff is raffling off a new 55 4K TV. Each shot gets the employee one ticket. The raffle is going on until the end of June to give everyone a chance to get both doses. At the end of June, someone will be walking away with a fun prize!

Despite the challenging year, Abby Connect remained a top US virtual receptionist service for small business owners, was recognized on the Inc.5000 as a Fastest Growing Private Company and continues to assist more and more businesses as they adjust to the new normal.
return to work - Alcatraz AI

With COVID-19 cases decreasing in the United States and vaccination numbers hitting new milestones, employers are starting to think about how to safely bring back their workers to physical workspaces. Alcatraz AI, the developer of secure frictionless access control solutions, can assist businesses with navigating these continued challenging times and help them to confidently reopen their workspaces.

On March 19, 2020 California issued a stay-at-home order, the first state in the nation to issue one. The state is now easing restrictions, and recently announced that on June 15th it will fully reopen its economy and drop social distancing rules, as COVID-19 vaccinations are reaching high levels and COVID-19 cases are decreasing.

One of the challenges with bringing workers back into workspaces is controlling access, to include creating controlled or separate entrances and exits, monitoring who has access into facilities and when, and even dividing work areas into zones to limit large numbers of people congregating.

Alcatraz AI offers the Alcatraz AI Rock solution that provides effective access control for the new norm world. The solution employs:



Multi-sensor technology and a touchless authentication feature that creates less touchpoints when entering a controlled space by using 3D facial authentication.

A long scanning range and large field of view feature that can effectively detect tailgating and send real-time alerts if an unauthorized person enters and sends real-time notifications to ACS/VMS.

Facemask verification, with technology that can check whether an employee is wearing a mask as they authenticate. Since the Rock sits between the badge reader and the ACS, as employees are badging in, a badge number continues being sent only if mask verification has occurred, eliminating the need for a guard to enforce compliance.

As our company is based in California, we are also preparing to reopen our doors and bring our employees back into our physical offices, said Tina DAgostin, CEO of Alcatraz AI. When its time for you to reopen your business, were here to help you with the access control tools and the strategy that you need. Together, we can all have a successful journey along the path towards the new normal.

For more information on Alcatraz AI access control solutions, visit http://www.alcatraz.ai.

About Alcatraz AI

Alcatraz AI transforms access control by leveraging artificial intelligence and analytics to make powerful decisions at the edge, where your face becomes your credential autonomously. Alcatrazs facial authentication technology and intelligent tailgating detection enable enterprises to innovate and future-proof their security strategy. Our solution, the Rock, is designed to be easy-to-implement and use - with no integration needed for easy deployment on any access control system.

Press Contact

Linda Ebrahimian at media@alcatraz.ai or by phone at: 818.636.8787
2021 AMUG Technical Competition winners Bill Braune (left) and Vito Gervasi. (Images of the winning entries available on request) Every year, the Technical Competition showcases companies and individuals that are pushing the envelope in additive manufacturing.

The Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG) today announced the winners of its annual Technical Competition, which recognizes excellence in additive manufacturing applications and finishing techniques. A panel of industry veterans selected Bill Braune of Dinsmore, Inc. and Vito Gervasi of Cadens LLC as winners of the competition, which was held at the group's 32nd annual conference in Orlando, Florida.

Bill Braune's winning entry in the Advanced Finishing category was a highly detailed and intricate scene titled "Death: A Horseman's Journey," inspired by the Darksiders video game series. To reflect the character's journey in the macabre scene, Braune turned to Carbon Digital Light Synthesis to print the fine details and subtle features in his creation. To bring 'Death' to life, he then applied various painting and finishing techniques to capture the essence of the dark, foreboding scene and add textures for fabric, flesh, bone, feather, stone, and steel.

Braune noted that his palette included 30 colors applied with dry brushing, airbrushing, and washes to create gradients, shades, and highlights. To add gritty textures to the scene, he applied 3D printing polymer powders to the model's surface.

Bonnie Meyer, chairperson of AMUG's Technical Competition committee, noted that a competition judge stated, "The paint scheme and blending techniques are second to none." Other comments were: "Excellent design layout," "Amazing post processing and assembly to prepare for paint," and "Complex, dramatic use of color and shading."

Considering both the Advance Finishing and Advanced Concept categories, Meyer said, "Every year, the Technical Competition showcases companies and individuals that are pushing the envelope in additive manufacturing. The 2021 competition was no exception. "

Vito Gervasi received first place in the Advanced Concepts category for his "BAAM Dam," a one-tenth scale replica of a 3D-printed turbine system that has been in operational testing since July 2020. According to Gervasi, additive manufacturing is the key to enabling a radical cost reduction, creating more opportunities for these power generation systems to be put into service. He said, "What we propose to do in the next five years will reduce the US carbon footprint, create jobs, and help small towns to power their municipal facilities, small businesses, or add power to the grid. AM [additive manufacturing] has the potential to empower tens of thousands of communities with limited budgets to reduce utility power costs by activating dormant hydropower facilities."

For the full-size micro-hydro system, Cadens turned to ORNL's Manufacturing Demonstration Facility for support. BAAM (Big Area Additive Manufacturing) was used to construct 2,000 pounds of large conveyance components and composite layup tools. Cadens made the smaller, higher resolution components with FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling). Leveraging additive manufacturing's capabilities, several new approaches were incorporated to provide compression along non-linear paths.

Meyer said, "What grabbed the attention of the judges was the creative use of additive manufacturing to address the need for more renewable energy." She continued, "Scale was also a factor. The replica Vito displayed spanned an entire tabletop. When the judges imagined a unit 10 times larger, 'BAAM Dam' took on a whole new dimension."

For Advanced Finishing, Edward Graham of ProtoCAM took second place with his work titled "Under the Sea with 3D." Third place was awarded to Vince Anewenter of Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) for his nickel-plated commemoration of a victory over cancer.

Melanie Lang of FormAlloy Technologies received the second-place award for her entry that embedded sensing technology within a metal additive manufacturing component in the Advanced Concepts category. Third place went to Rick Pressley of Renaissance Services for his 3D-printed ceramic molds for metal casting.

As winners of the Technical Competition, Braune and Gervasi each received complimentary admission to the 2022 AMUG Conference and a commemorative award. Those attending the 2022 conference will hear presentations from these winners that describe their projects and the processes that they used. Meyer commented, "For 2022, we will grow the size of the competition and extend the reach of the expertise on display to the broader additive manufacturing community."

Judges for the Advanced Finishing category were Rey Chu, Dave Flynn, Tim Gornet, Jason Lopes, and Derek Ellis. Advanced Concepts judges included Mark Abshire, Bob Diaz, Mike Hascher, Stewart Davis, and Dana McCallum. All judges are AMUG DINOs (Distinguished INnovator Operator).

About Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG)

AMUG is an organization that educates and advances the uses and applications of additive manufacturing technologies. AMUG members include those with industrial additive manufacturing/3D printing technologies and materials used for professional purposes from companies such as BASF 3D Printing Solutions, DMG MORI, Dyndrite Corporation, Essentium, ExOne, and LuxCreo. AMUG meets annually to provide education and training through technical presentations on processes and new technologies. This information addresses operation of additive manufacturing equipment and the applications that use the parts they make. Online at http://www.amug.com.


Daneliya Tuleshova's New Single "Like You Used To" Available Now Signing Daneliya was an easy choice. I have followed her progress since she was 10 years old and believe she has improved as both a vocalist and a performer at a speed the industry has not seen since some of the great female artists of the late 80s. - Rich Fayden, Founder of 4 Chords Records

Americas Got Talent Season 15 Top 6 finalist, 14-year-old Daneliya Tuleshova has signed to 4 Chords Records as their flagship artist and has released her debut pop single, Like You Used To available now across all digital platforms. The pop track has garnered over 100k streams just days since its release.

Im so excited to finally release my first single with 4 Chords Records, says Tuleshova. Rich Fayden at the label saw and understood my vision as an artist and I am excited for what is to come.

Rich Fayden, Founder of 4 Chords Records, has a long history of discovering young talent and giving them opportunities and platforms to get their music out to the world, was struck by Tuleshova when he saw her perform Demi Lovatos Stone Cold on The Voice Kids Ukraine, where she was named the youngest winner to ever take home the winning title at just 10 years old.

Fayden says, Signing Daneliya was an easy choice. I have followed her progress since she was 10 years old and believe she has improved as both a vocalist and a performer at a speed the industry has not seen since some of the great female artists of the late 80s.

Fayden co-wrote the track with Sony Music Director Henri MGI Lanz, who also produced the track and has collaborated with A-list artists including Kylie Minogue, The Weeknd, Pitbull, 50 Cent, Sean Kingston, Sia, and Justin Bieber just to name a few. Like You Used To showcases Tuleshovas vocal versatility while also delivering relatable lyrics paired with an up-tempo pop beat.

The song will be distributed by Orchard/SONY and will impact radio and playlists across all digital platforms.

Tuleshova is no stranger to the vocal competition world. The Kazakhstan, Astana based artist also holds the title of being the youngest to win The Voice Kids Ukraine and was also awarded the honor of representing Kazakhstan in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest. Since her time on AGT, her videos have gone viral collectively garnering over 70 million views. Additionally, the global sensation is building her name outside the music industry as she has been named the newest ambassador for NIVEA products in Kazakhstan.

For more information on Daneliya Tuleshova, follow her on:

instagram: @tuleshova_daneliya

youtube: @Daneliya Tuleshova
Brandon Erricson, a sixteen-year-old student from south New Jersey, has completed his first new book Gobis Adventure: a gripping and potent childrens story about Gobis unexpected journey through new and exquisite places.

Brandon writes, Now normally, the little goblin knows not to talk to strangers, but she doesnt feel as though she has a choice. I-I got lost in the woods while pl-playing and I cant find my way home I-I tripped on a tree root while coming to you a-and hurt my arm the little goblin sputters out, holding back her tears. The fairy frowns and takes the goblins hand which is nearly the size of her body. She begins leading her somewhere.

Published by Page Publishing, Brandon Erricsons captivating tale is a childrens book about the escapade Gobi, the goblin, has stumbled upon. By making one wrong turn in the woods, Gobi gets lost and is unable to find her way back home. Despite her dire circumstances, she doesnt give up and keeps trying to find her way back to her parents. During this unforeseen adventure, she discovers new places and characters she never knew existed.

This fascinating kids book will take readers on a journey through magical lands, with Gobi the goblin. Gobi inspires readers to never give up and shows that adventures can happen anytime, even when you least expect them. She wanders into unique and interesting friends along the way, who try to assist her in finding her way back into the deep woods, where the goblins live. Readers will be inspired to explore their surroundings and discover new places and creatures, just like Gobi. Throughout her sudden journey, she realizes that the world is made up of so much more than her little village, more than she ever could have imagined. One wrong turn took Gobi on the greatest adventure of her little life.

Readers who wish to experience this charming work can purchase Gobis Adventure at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes Store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or media inquiries, contact Page Publishing at 866-315-2708.

About Page Publishing:

Page Publishing is a traditional, full-service publishing house that handles all the intricacies involved in publishing its authors books, including distribution in the worlds largest retail outlets and royalty generation. Page Publishing knows that authors need to be free to create, not mired in logistics like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes, and so on. Pages accomplished writers and publishing professionals allow authors to leave behind these complex and time-consuming issues and focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at http://www.pagepublishing.com.
Edison, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/27/2021 -- An embedded system is a combination of software and hardware which together facilitate the accurate functioning of a target device. Embedded system market is expected to mark significant growth over forecasted period owing to increasing consumers spending on smart phones, providing high application- specified integrated circuit and high speed operating systems applications and technological advancement. Embedded system allows users to generates a field processing gate arrays, analyze software development, testing tools and provide output. This result in rising popularity of microprocessors & microcontrollers platforms, increasing demand of portable devices, and escalating need for high-speed automation based solution, and growing popularity of advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) may trigger demand and help in industry expansion.



A new business intelligence report released by Advance Market Analytics with title "Embedded Systems Market Insights, forecast to 2026" has abilities to raise as the most significant market worldwide as it has remained playing a remarkable role in establishing progressive impacts on the universal economy. The Embedded Systems Market Report offers energetic visions to conclude and study market size, market hopes, and competitive surroundings. The research is derived through primary and secondary statistics sources and it comprises both qualitative and quantitative detailing.



Some of the key players profiled in the study are:



Intel Corporation (United States) ,Infineon Technologies AG (Germany) ,Renesas Electronics Corporation (Japan) ,Texas Instruments Incorporated (United States) ,Microchip Technology Incorporated (United States) ,STMicroelectronics N.V. (Switzerland) ,Qualcomm Technologies Incorporated (United States) ,Cypress Semiconductor Corporation (United States) ,Analog Devices Inc. (United States) ,



Free Sample Report + All Related Graphs & Charts @: https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/sample-report/22190-global-and-regional-embedded-systems-market-1



This study mainly helps understand which market segments or Region or Country they should focus in coming years to channelize their efforts and investments to maximize growth and profitability. The report presents the market competitive landscape and a consistent in-depth analysis of the major vendor/key players in the market.



The titled segments and Market Data Breakdown are illuminated below:



Type (Normal Phase HPLC, Reverse Phase HPLC), Application (Automotive, Telecommunication, Healthcare, Industrial, Consumer Electronics, Military & Aerospace), Equipment (Software, Hardware), Functionality (Stand alone, Real time, Networked, Mobile), Microcontroller (Small scale (8 bit -16 bit), Medium scale (16 bit -32 bit), Large scale (32 bit -64 bit))



Enquire for customization in Report @: https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/enquiry-before-buy/22190-global-and-regional-embedded-systems-market-1



Market Trends:

Rapid Demand of Embedded System in Consumer Electronics Products.

Collaboration and Tie Up Of Leading Players



Market Drivers:

Increase Adoption of Embedded System at Automotive Industry.

Rapid Demand of Multicore Processor Technology in Military Applications.

Rise in Demand of Embedded System in Healthcare Equipment.



Challenges:

Limitation due to Government Regulation are Anticipated to Challenge the Market.

Stiff Competition Between the Major Players Hampers the Global Market.



Opportunities:

Growing Impact of Internet of Things (IoT).

Rapid Adoption of Embedded System in Smart Cities.



Region Included are: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Oceania, South America, Middle East & Africa

Country Level Break-Up: United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Chile, South Africa, Nigeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Germany, United Kingdom (UK), the Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Austria, Turkey, Russia, France, Poland, Israel, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, China, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, Singapore, India, Australia and New Zealand etc.



Important Features that are under offering & key highlights of the report:



 Market Data Segmentation with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), and Price Analysis

 Detailed overview of Embedded Systems market

 Changing market dynamics of the industry

 In-depth market segmentation by Type, Application etc

 Historical, current and projected market size in terms of volume and value

 Recent industry trends and developments

 Competitive landscape of Embedded Systems market

 Strategies of key players and product offerings

 Potential and niche segments/regions exhibiting promising growth

 A neutral perspective towards Embedded Systems market performance

 Must-have information for market players to sustain and enhance their market footprint



Read Detailed Index of full Research Study at @ https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/reports/22190-global-and-regional-embedded-systems-market-1



Strategic Points Covered in Table of Content of Embedded Systems Market:



Chapter 1: Introduction, market driving force product Objective of Study and Research Scope the Embedded Systems market

Chapter 2: Exclusive Summary  the basic information of the Embedded Systems Market.

Chapter 3: Displaying the Market Dynamics- Drivers, Trends and Challenges of the Embedded Systems

Chapter 4: Presenting the Embedded Systems Market Factor Analysis Porters Five Forces, Supply/Value Chain, PESTEL analysis, Market Entropy, Patent/Trademark Analysis.

Chapter 5: Displaying the by Type, End User and Region

Chapter 6: Evaluating the leading manufacturers of the Embedded Systems market which consists of its Competitive Landscape, Peer Group Analysis, BCG Matrix & Company Profile

Chapter 7: To evaluate the market by segments, by countries and by manufacturers with revenue share and sales by key countries in these various regions.

Chapter 8 & 9: Displaying the Appendix, Methodology and Data Source



Buy the Latest Detailed Report @ https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/buy-now?format=1&report=22190



Key questions answered



- Who are the Leading key players and what are their Key Business plans in the Embedded Systems market?

- What are the key concerns of the five forces analysis of the Embedded Systems market?

- What are different prospects and threats faced by the dealers in the Embedded Systems market?

- What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors?



Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia.



About Advance Market Analytics

Advance Market Analytics is Global leaders of Market Research Industry provides the quantified B2B research to Fortune 500 companies on high growth emerging opportunities which will impact more than 80% of worldwide companies' revenues.



Our Analyst is tracking high growth study with detailed statistical and in-depth analysis of market trends & dynamics that provide a complete overview of the industry. We follow an extensive research methodology coupled with critical insights related industry factors and market forces to generate the best value for our clients. We Provides reliable primary and secondary data sources; our analysts and consultants derive informative and usable data suited for our client's business needs. The research study enables clients to meet varied market objectives a from global footprint expansion to supply chain optimization and from competitor profiling to M&As.



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Suspense and intrigue await readers in Dennis Hunts latest novel, Sameria & Jacob: It Starts with Us (published by Balboa Press AU). In this story, readers follow two young individuals as they fight against terror to save their community and themselves.

Sameria and Jacob are brilliant children growing up in Daesh-controlled Iraq. They are blessed with well-educated and forward thinking parents. It is not long before they realize they are exceptional and have moved beyond what their parents can teach them  Sameria with her mathematics and science and Jacob with his computing and languages. Through some clever hacking, they open up a world of knowledge from various university and defense systems. In a place where resistance is unthinkable and people scramble to survive, can Sameria and Jacob bring forth hope to their people?

Sameria & Jacob: It Starts with Us is a story born out of the daily struggle of people forced to live under a totalitarian regime, the author states. It is a clever, topical story. The story includes modern and future technology and its use to bring about meaningful change in the world. It offers a potential solution to the problems being experienced in the Middle East.

To purchase a copy of the book, https://www.balboapress.com/en-au/bookstore/bookdetails/817859-sameria-jacob.

Sameria & Jacob: It Starts with Us

By Dennis Hunt

Softcover | 5 x 8in | 220 pages | ISBN 9781982290207

E-Book | 220 pages | ISBN 9781982290214

Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About the Author

Dennis Hunt is a dedicated writer who loves the process of creating stories. The writing starts with a concept and develops as the characters are created and traverse life in the world he creates. He hopes others will enjoy the story as much as he does. This is Denniss second publication. His first book, The Original World at War, was published late in 2020.

Balboa Press Australia is a division of Hay House, Inc., a leading provider in publishing products that specialise in self-help and the mind, body and spirit genre. Through an alliance with the worldwide self-publishing leader Author Solutions, LLC, authors benefit from the leadership of Hay House Publishing and the speed-to-market advantages of the Author Solutions self-publishing model. For more information or to start publishing today, visit balboapress.com.au or call 1-800-844-925.
Charles Onstott, Vice President, Chief Technology Officer Onstott will foster innovation and grow the company through the development and application of new and existing enterprise IT solutions.

CALIBRE Systems, Inc. (CALIBRE) announced the addition of Charles Onstott as Vice President, Chief Technology Officer (CTO). In this role, he will work closely with CALIBREs Growth Team and Operations Divisions to identify opportunities and mitigate risks for delivering the companys IT services, including identification of competitive services, opportunities for innovation, and assessment of marketplace trends, obstacles, and technical hurdles to the success of the employee-owned business. Additionally, he will serve as a key leader in CALIBREs Corporate and Executive Leadership Teams.

Prior to CALIBRE, Charles proved his government contracting and leadership experience during his 27-year tenure at Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), where he served in several capacities. He built and led IT service organizations in IT managed services, cybersecurity, cloud computing, data science, and IT business transformation for major public and private sector clients. In so doing, he has enabled numerous customers to modernize their IT and leverage emerging technologies to achieve outstanding business and mission outcomes. As CTO, he led SAICs long-term technology strategy which emphasized fostering a culture of innovation, developing and enhancing innovation capabilities, partnerships, and research and development. Charles is well-recognized in industry, as evident in his WashingtonExec Public Company CTO of the Year award in 2020.

We are thrilled that Charles has joined CALIBRE and our leadership team, said CALIBRE President and CEO, Richard Pineda. He brings extensive expertise and relevancy in IT modernization and innovation across public and private sector clients. I, along with CALIBREs employee-owners, look forward to Charles further advancing our IT strategic roadmap and leveraging innovative technology to optimize business performance.

New technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, augmented reality and virtual reality, Internet of Things, and next generation cybersecurity can be game changers for securely improving mission effectiveness and efficiencies while providing outstanding citizen and employee experiences, said Onstott. Successful IT transformation enables customers to leverage these next generation technologies to maximum effect. I am excited about the vision and direction in which CALIBRE is going and joining the incredibly smart and passionate leadership team in helping advance its IT transformation capabilities.

Charles Onstott is a graduate of the University of Chicago and Oklahoma State University. He completed executive education at The Wharton School in strategic alliances.

About CALIBRE

CALIBRE is an employee-owned management consulting and digital transformation company supporting government and industry. CALIBRE delivers enduring solutions that solve management, technology, and program challenges in the areas of enterprise information management; facility and land management; finance, logistics, and cost management; and training and education.

Contact: Barbara Richitt, Senior Vice President, Contracts & Procurement

Telephone: 703.797.8731

E-mail: Barbara.Richitt@calibresys.com
Royer Cooper Cohen Braunfeld, LLC (RCCB), a law firm offering a distinctive combination of practical business acumen, legal expertise and entrepreneurial passion, is pleased to announce, for the first time, RCCB has been ranked as a leading law firm in the 2021 Chambers USA guide for our work in Corporate/M&A & Private Equity in Pennsylvania: Philadelphia & Surrounds. RCCB is considerably smaller and younger than the other firms ranked, making this recognition particularly meaningful. The Chambers USA guide, in existence since 1989, is considered to be the leading directory in the legal profession. Additionally, the guide recognizes highly-regarded Managing Partner John E. Royer, Jr., for the first time, for Corporate/M&A & Private Equity, and esteemed Partner David Gitlin returns to the guide for the 14th year as a top-ranked attorney in Corporate/M&A & Private Equity.

According to Chambers USA, the firms Corporate/M&A & Private Equity Group is an experienced corporate team that handles domestic and cross-border transactions that advises on buyouts, divestitures and acquisitions as well as securities offerings. The Group represents clients from a variety of sectors including healthcare and technology. Among their strengths, clients commented that they are patient and make sure we understand every nuance so that we can make educated decisions." Another client reports the team is "very responsive and very dedicated to providing creative and practical solutions."

John E. Royer, Jr. is described as having a strong practice and is noted for advising clients on commercial and venture capital transitions. Sources say, he is an excellent negotiator who is proactive in bringing up issues. He is a very good deal lawyer."

David Gitlin is noted for frequently handling complex international corporate transactions. He garners praise for his additional expertise in venture capital matters. Sources report, "He de-bottlenecks negotiations by providing simple solutions to complex issues." Another client stated, "He is a good negotiator with an ability to find quick, advanced solutions during the transaction negotiation process."

John E. Royer, Jr. brings more than 30 years of business and corporate law experience to his clients, for whom he frequently serves as outside general counsel. He focuses his practice primarily on business and corporate law transactions and counseling for emerging growth technology and life science companies, executives, and investors, as well as middle-market and family-owned businesses. His practice encompasses mergers and acquisitions, corporate restructurings, private equity and venture capital transactions, debt and equity offerings, licensing and technology contracting, fund formation and partnership and limited liability company operating agreements, as well as a wide range of business and commercial transactions, agreements and general business legal counseling.

David Gitlin has handled more than 300 M&A deals in 18 different countries as well as hundreds of venture capital and angel investments. Significant clients include large multinationals on cross-border deals, multi-generational private companies and venture-backed companies in planning and executing a liquidity event, U.S. companies seeking to expand overseas and foreign companies seeking to expand in the U.S., venture capital funds and angel investors, and scores of startups in all phases of their growth and development. International Work: David assists in a wide variety of cross-border matters including foreign companies seeking to conduct business or engage in transactions in the United States, as well as U.S. companies operating and investing abroad. He has particular expertise and experience representing U.S. and foreign companies and funds in cross-border M&A transactions and international joint ventures, licensing and distribution agreements.

Chambers and Partners is an independent research company operating across 200 jurisdictions delivering detailed rankings and insight into the world's leading lawyers. Based in London, the guide ranks leading U.S. firms and attorneys based on in-depth research and interviews with attorneys clients and peers. Chambers USA 2021 ranks more than 6,000 law firms and 18,000 lawyers across more than 50 practice areas/sectors on a state and national level. Chambers assesses attorneys on attributes most valued by clients, including technical legal ability, professional conduct, client service, commercial astuteness, diligence, and commitment. The Chambers USA guide is widely read by industry-leading companies and organizations nationwide. For more information, visit https://www.chambersandpartners.com.

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.
3D AR Head-Up Display from CY Vision

The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, is investing in CY Vision to make the next generation of assisted and autonomous driving safer and more trusted. CY Vision builds 3D augmented reality systems using standard autograde technologies to address all segments of the automotive market.

CY Visions approach sets apart electric, autonomous, and new conventional vehicles by turning the windshield into an always available, always visible display for important information. The company goes beyond instrument panels to uniquely project pedestrian and road hazard warnings, navigation and traffic lane information, and provides in-cabin virtual assistance at any visual distance in its full 3D stereoscopic head-up displays (HUDs).

IFCs investment will help CY Vision deliver safer and more visually engaging experience to vehicle manufacturers across international markets and customer segments. Our approach based on standard automotive grade hardware opens up new markets to the promise of practical and useful augmented reality systems, said CY Vision CEO Orkun Oguz.

We continue to support CY Vision, this time directly, to enable its disruptive technology development efforts that could eventually enhance the driving safety features of automobiles around the world, said Arnaud Dupoizat, IFCs Country Manager for Turkey and Russia.

Headquartered in Silicon Valley, CY Vision develops holographic display technology and 3D rendering software suites that deliver augmented reality experiences for the challenges of difficult vehicular environments. Built for standard automotive computing platforms, sensor suites, and windshields, the companys products serve mass market and premium vehicles in consumer and commercial markets. Its investors include IFC, Intel Capital, Koc Holding, Revo Capital, and Vestel Ventures.

ABOUT IFC

IFC  a member of the World Bank Group  is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2020, we invested $22 billion in private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging the power of the private sector to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity. For more information, visit http://www.ifc.org.
Deci, a deep learning company building the next generation of AI, announced today the official review and validation of its platform by Amazon Web Services, Inc. (AWS). Deci has now joined the AWS Independent Software Vendor (ISV) Partner Path program within the AWS Partner Network (APN), the global partner program for technology companies using AWS.

Decis deep learning platform is revolutionizing AI use across industries by automatically transforming deep learning models to be ready for effective production at scale. Powered by its groundbreaking automated neural architecture construction (AutoNAC) technology, the platform enables developers to supercharge AI models and accelerate deep learning runtime by up to 10x on any hardware, for any task. Decis platform can redesign any deep learning model to maximize inference throughput and minimize inference latency (even up to real-time performance), all while reducing costs and preserving accuracy.

Deci attained its validation by undergoing a rigorous AWS Foundational Technical Review (FTR). Deci also demonstrated high growth potential and received strong endorsements from its existing clients in various industries including video conferencing, retail, healthcare, semiconductors, autonomous driving, and more.

"Our participation in the APN will enable us to reach more customers who can benefit greatly from our deep learning algorithmic platform, as it excels in optimizing deep learning workloads running on AWS and beyond, said Yonatan Geifman, co-founder and CEO of Deci. AI developers across industries continue to be bogged down by increasing algorithmic complexity, which keeps enterprises from productizing their solutions. Our platform excels in improving the efficacy of AI algorithms, thus freeing developers from the constraints of a complicated AI lifecycle and allowing them to focus on their forte - solving the worlds most complex problems.

The announcement follows many notable milestones for Deci. Deci recently announced its status as a silver-tier member of the HPE Technology Partner Program. Prior to this, Deci was named to the 2021 CB Insights AI 100 List as a top deep learning accelerator and as a market leader in AI software optimization solutions by Kisaco Research. Deci also recently announced a broad strategic collaboration with Intel Corporation to optimize deep learning inference on Intel Architecture (IA) CPUs. The two are working together to deploy innovative AI technologies to mutual customers.

In 2020, Deci raised $9.1M in a seed round to further advance its deep learning platform.

More information can be found here on Decis relationship with AWS.

About Deci

Deci is ushering in a new AI paradigm by using AI to build and operate AI models. Decis deep learning platform enables data scientists to transform their AI models into production-grade solutions on any hardware, crafting the next generation of AI for enterprises across the board. Decis proprietary AutoNAC (Automated Neural Architecture Construction) technology autonomously redesigns an enterprises deep learning models to squeeze the maximum utilization out of its hardware. Founded in 2019 and based in Tel Aviv, Decis team of deep learning experts are dedicated to eliminating production-related bottlenecks across the AI lifecycle to allow developers and engineers the time to do what they do best - create innovative AI solutions for our worlds complex problems.

Media Contact

Garrett Krivicich

Garrett@headline.media

+1 786 233 7684
Barriers to Asians and Pacific Islanders in Science and Medicine Diversity Panel Logo This diversity panel features a timely and intimate discussion of the interactions my fellow Asian colleagues have experienced in the laboratory and the clinic, stories that are unfortunately all too common, said SITC President Patrick Hwu, MD.

The Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC), in collaboration with the Chinese American Hematologist and Oncologist Network (CAHON) and the Indo-American Cancer Association (IACA), is pleased to release an important diversity panel discussion of society leaders sharing their experience as Asians working in the cancer research field.

Barriers to Asians and Pacific Islanders in Science and Medicine Diversity Panel, is an hour-long group discussion, hosted by the SITC Diversity and Inclusion Task Force, featuring society leaders who open up to share personal and professional reflections as Asian and Pacific Islanders working as researchers and oncologists in the United States and Canada. Moderated by SITC Vice President and Task Force Co-chair Leisha Emens, MD, PhD; Task Force member Avery D. Posey, PhD; and CAHON Immediate Past President Lei Zheng, MD, PhD; the recorded webinar features discussion from the following Diversity Panel members:



Zihai Li, MD, PhD  Ohio State University

Pamela Ohashi, PhD  Princess Margaret Cancer Centre

Padmanee Sharma, MD, PhD  The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Weijing Sun, MD, FACP  University of Kansas Medical Center

This diversity panel features a timely and intimate discussion of the interactions my fellow Asian colleagues have experienced in the laboratory and the clinic, stories that are unfortunately all too common, said SITC President Patrick Hwu, MD. While Asian-Americans have considerable representation in our field as a whole, reported data show us the extreme uphill climb most have to achieve leadership roles within the profession. Todays discussion shines a light on some of those barriers that exist. I admire all of the panel participants for sharing personal stories, and I hope the experiences offered serve as a learning opportunity for leaders in institutions across our country.

According to an October 2020 report in The Cancer Letter on workforce disparity, in 2018 approximately 26 percent of oncologists in the U.S. were Asian and Pacific Islanders, while only 11 percent sat as cancer center deputy or associate directors, and only 7 percent served as cancer center directors. The SITC-CAHON-IACA diversity panel featured discussion on a range of topics, including the importance of mentorship within the Asian-American community, experiences of seeking promotions within the field and the action SITC and other organizations can take to address barriers for minority groups in medicine and research. The panel discussion, which was recorded on Thursday, May 20, was also done so, in part, to honor Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, which concludes on Monday, May 31.

We know the stories shared during our discussion are not limited to the participants on the panel, but also impact the broader community of Asian-Americans and other under-represented minorities. It is imperative for organizations like SITC to take the lead on improving awareness of, and identifying solutions for, professional barriers within our field for under-represented minorities, said Dr. Emens. I remain in awe of the courage shown by all of the panel participants, as their honesty and vulnerability will not only benefit the current biomedical community, but also generations of scientists and clinicians to come.

The SITC-CAHON-IACA diversity panel discussion is available for on-demand viewing via the SITC YouTube channel.

About SITC

Established in 1984, the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) is a nonprofit organization of medical professionals dedicated to improving cancer patient outcomes by advancing the development, science and application of cancer immunotherapy and tumor immunology. SITC is comprised of influential basic and translational scientists, practitioners, health care professionals, government leaders and industry professionals around the globe. Through educational initiatives that foster scientific exchange and collaboration among leaders in the field, SITC aims to one day make the word cure a reality for cancer patients everywhere. Learn more about SITC, our educational offerings and other resources at sitcancer.org and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.

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BBQ Meat Platter Our Longevity Bonus is just one way we honor the folks who work so hard every day to make Authentic Central Texas BBQ and serve our wonderful guests.

Southside Market & Barbeque (4 Locations in Central Texas) announced a first-of-its-kind in the barbeque industry employee benefit, focusing on celebrating the growth of current employees and attracting & retaining the best talent. Southside Markets newly released Longevity Bonus doubles hourly employees current hourly rates, up to 40 hours/week for 1 year with the additional monies paid out over time as a bonus which effectively doubles pay earned for the first year hours worked.

Southside Market, which originated in downtown Elgin, TX, in 1882, is the oldest BBQ joint in Texas selling authentic Central Texas barbeque for meat-lovers who value quality. Owned by third-generation Pitmaster Bryan Bracewell and his wife Rachel, this iconic restaurant brand has grown over the past 139 years from a one-man butcher shop to its status as a must-visit destination for those seeking the finest sausage and smoked meats that Texas has to offer. With the original restaurant still operating in Elgin, a second location later added in Bastrop, a third opened in Austin in late 2019 and the newest location opened in Hutto in 2020. Southside Market has earned its reputation as a legendary Texas BBQ joint and secured its place in Texas rich barbecue lore. Southside Market is known for its quality sausages and barbeque, their top notch customer service and company culture.

As we continue down the path of growing Southside and offering more opportunities to our team, we always look to develop creative ways to keep the awesome folks we currently have on board and also attract the best talent in Central Texas and beyond. Our Longevity Bonus is just one way we honor the folks who work so hard every day to make Authentic Central Texas BBQ and serve our wonderful guests. I believe this is a great incentive to attract and keep team members who want a chance to grow and develop into tomorrows future leaders of Southside, said Bryan Bracewell.

In addition to the Longevity Bonus, Southside Market also released a new Holiday Bonus which awards bonus pay to all employees that work in operations on traditional family holidays such as Mothers Day, Memorial Day, Fathers Day, July 4th and Labor Day. Southside Market closes its its restaurants on holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter Sunday so that employees can enjoy these holidays with their families.

In addition to competitive wages, Southside Market also offers employees a free meal during each shift, an employee discount on all regular menu items, 401 (k) with employer matching, an employee assistance program and an employee referral program.

Candidates interested in available positions can learn more and apply online at https://www.southsidemarket.com/careers

About Southside Market & Barbeque

Southside Markets history in the barbeque industry dates back to 1882 when original founder William Moon began selling meat in Elgin by the wagonload. At the end of each day, hed take whatever was left and make smoked sausage and barbeque to avoid spoilage, as in that era there was no refrigeration. Four years later, he opened up a storefront on what was then known as South Street, and the legend began. Bracewells grandfather, who called on the store as a salesman at the time, decided to buy the business in 1968, and the family has carried on the rich tradition of exceptional sausage and barbeque following the same authentic methods of smoking low and slow over real Texas post oak wood, since 1882.

Each Southside Market & Barbeque location serves the same beloved menu of BBQ-by-the-half pound, including the famous Original Beef Sausage, USDA Prime brisket, chopped brisket, jalapeno cheddar sausage, chicken, pork steaks, ribs, and more. Sandwiches, salads, a loaded chopped brisket baked potato, and sides, including coleslaw, beans, corn on the cob, potato salad, and mac & cheese, are available on the lunch and dinner menu. Larger family-style meals are also available and the restaurant offers a variety of catering packages. Guests are invited to end their meal with a sweet treat from a selection of homemade cobblers, banana pudding, or a hand-dipped ice cream cone. Guests can order online, over the phone or come and dine in at any Southside location.

For more information on Southside Market & Barbeque and available positions, please visit https://www.southsidemarket.com/ and follow along on social media at @southsidebbq.
Florida Rock & Tank Lines, an award-winning carrier for safety and performance, has entered a partnership with Infinit-I Workforce Solutions. Florida Rock & Tank Lines representatives, Tom Serafin and Jim Anderson, spent years searching for the perfect online training solution. They vetted several providers, looking for an affordable solution that would compliment their well-established in-person training program.

After scouring the market for the perfect training solution, Florida Rock and Tank Lines selected Infinity- I for their on-line training need. The partnership was established based on Infinit-Is history, content selection, and word of mouth testimonials.

The DOT requires Florida Rock & Tank Lines to provide HM126F training to new HazMat drivers within the first 90 days of employment. Social distancing made it challenging to provide that level of in-person training.

We had the opportunity to move in the direction of online training. We felt a sense of urgency regarding the DOTs requirements. With Infinit-I, we can efficiently provide proper Hazmat training to our drivers while keeping their health and safety as a top priority.

The best solution we found was to move the HM126F component of our in-person training to Infinit-I.



Jim Anderson, Vice President of Safety Risk Management, Florida Rock and Tank Lines

Jim and Tom chose Infinit-I over other providers after reaching out to his colleagues for their opinion. Infinit-I received rave reviews from other trucking professional regarding its ease of use, accessibility, and content selection. Jim was impressed by the content that currently exists in the Infinit-I system. Infinit-I updates their catalog and content offering monthly. Their services also include the ability to upload or create your own safety training videos as a supplement. Florida Rock and Tank Lines can customize their training program for their exact needs. Tom

The ability to train our drivers exactly how we want is great. We are also working with our maintenance group to do some OSHA training. We are exploring the possibility of expanding our effort beyond the fleet by training our managers and dispatchers, as well.



Tom Serafin, Director of Safety and Training, Florida Rock and Tank Lines

Infinit-I considers this a strategic move for the future of training at Florida Rock & Tank Lines. The relationship brings the opportunity for Florida Rock and Tank Lines to enhance productivity, capacity, performance, and retention from a central platform. Infinit-I empowers Florida Rock & Tank Lines to provide consistent training and procedures at each of their 19 terminals. Coupled with their hands-on in-person training and existing award-winning safety culture, Florida Rock & Tank Lines proves their commitment to excellence and safe performance while preserving their employees health and wellbeing.

The environment of in-person meetings has drastically changed since the beginning of COVID. In the trucking industry, we used to fill a room shoulder-to-shoulder for annual or quarterly safety meetings. With COVID, that style of training is no longer possible. We just cant do that anymore, it is irresponsible. Infinit-I gives you the freedom to simulate that style of meeting without the risk of exposure.



Jay Wommack, CEO, Infinit-I Workforce Solutions

About Florida Rock & Tank Lines

Florida Rock & Tank Lines has served as a premier bulk tank carrier since 1962. As an industry leader, we continue to grow in the southeastern United States, transporting petroleum and other liquid and dry bulk commodities. Florida Rock & Tank Lines currently operates 19 terminals in addition to numerous truck domicile locations throughout the Southeast. With one of the most modern tank fleets available in the industry, Florida Rock & Tank Lines is composed of more than 300 tractors and 400 trailers.

To learn more about Florida Rock & Tank, visit https://floridarockandtanklines.com/

About Infinit-I Workforce Solutions

Infinit-I Workforce Solutions is the industry leader in on-demand business education for safety training anytime, anywhere. With more than 1,000 expert videos, our training platform reduces accidents, violations, employee turnover, and training costs to make your business more profitable and litigation-proof for the long-haul. You will be in good company as our solutions are used by more than 1,500 clients across 300,000 users across Trucking (For Hire and Private Fleets), Student Transportation (School Systems and Private Bussing) and Warehouse Management.

To learn more about Infinit-I, visit https://www.infinitiworkforce.com
GroGuru InSites Software as a Service Valley has the largest market share in center-pivot irrigation systems and is the global market leader. Center pivot irrigation systems are the dominant irrigation method for broad-acre row crops like corn, cotton, soybeans, sorghum, wheat, and other cereal crops.

GroGuru has signed an API access agreement with Valley Irrigation, A Valmont Company, which gives GroGuru access to data from connected devices in deployment, when end customers grant permission to GroGuru. Connected devices include center pivot irrigation systems, soil monitoring sites, and weather stations. All the customer needs to do is check a box in their Valley/AgSense telemetry software, and the data from Valley Irrigation can be accessed by GroGuru InSites, our software as a service (SaaS).

This agreement gives an enormous boost to our accessible market for GroGuru InSites, and gives us the ability to access the as applied irrigation data from Valley center-pivot irrigation systems, said Patrick Henry, president and CEO of GroGuru. Valley has the largest market share in center-pivot irrigation systems and is the global market leader. Center pivot irrigation systems are the dominant irrigation method for broad-acre row crops like corn, cotton, soybeans, sorghum, wheat, and other cereal crops.

The recent addition of AgSense telemetry into the GroGuru software platform has been extremely valuable to CSS Farms, said Jesse Ziems, Senior Agronomist at CSS Farms. We were already an AgSense customer on our pivots and having the flexibility to mix and match AgSense and GroGuru hardware while still getting the value of GroGuru InSites across all our farms will be a huge benefit to us. We will now be able to see as-applied irrigation data along with soil moisture data for real time control over our operation."

About GroGuru

GroGuru, Inc. is a privately held company based in San Diego, CA, founded in 2014. GroGuru supplies precision soil and irrigation monitoring and management systems to the commercial agriculture industry. GroGuru is all about strategic irrigation management, helping farmers make more money by increasing crop yield and more efficiently using water in a sustainable way.

GroGuru has a patented wireless underground system (WUGS) for soil monitoring, an AI-based recommendation engine in the Cloud, and an intuitive farmer-friendly user interface that farmers can access on their tablet, computer or mobile device. GroGuru sells an innovative hardware-enabled subscription-based solution to farmers that enables optimal irrigation, as well as a software as a service (SaaS) marketed as GroGuru InSites.

GroGurus patented WUGS technology enables a permanent installation of soil sensors, even in annual field crops. GroGuru has been a part of the OCTANE LaunchPad, EvoNexus, AgLaunch, the Yield Lab, SVG-Thrive and Plug & Play AgTech accelerator programs.
Hallett & Perrin welcomes, from left, Shelly Maurer, Tanner McClellan, Sam Fishman, and Jesse Beck. Were proud that Shelly, Tanner, Sam, and Jesse have joined us, and we are looking forward to having them on the team for many years.

Hallett & Perrin welcomes four new attorneys: Shelly Maurer and Tanner McClellan in the corporate group and Sam Fishman and Jesse Beck in the litigation group.

These additions are the latest in a series of positive milestones at the firm, following the promotions of litigator Elizabeth Fitch and corporate attorney Mark Pendleton to shareholder.

As we enter our third decade of business, we are reminded how important it is to make recruiting decisions that impact the firms longevity, said Hallett & Perrin president and managing shareholder Leland de la Garza. Were proud that Shelly, Tanner, Sam and Jesse have joined us, and we are looking forward to having them on the team for many years.

Ms. Maurers practice focuses on commercial real estate transactions, and she advises clients with all aspects of real estate acquisitions and dispositions, including development, due diligence and financing. A registered patent attorney, Ms. Maurer is licensed to practice law in both California and Texas. She is a cum laude graduate of Pepperdine University School of Law. For more information, visit https://www.hallettperrin.com/attorneys/bio/shelly-maurer

Mr. McClellan is a member of the firms corporate and healthcare practice groups. He represents individual investors and companies in general corporate transactions such as entity formation, and purchase and sale agreements. Additionally, Mr. McClellan advises partnerships, corporations, and individuals on the federal tax aspects of complex transactions, and he counsels domestic and cross-border clients on a variety of transactional matters. He is a magna cum laude graduate of the J. Reuben Clark Law School at Brigham Young University. For more information, visit https://www.hallettperrin.com/attorneys/bio/tanner-mcclellan

Mr. Fishman is a litigator who has experience in both trial and appellate courts. He is an effective advocate for both individuals and companies alike in a broad range of matters, including commercial and real estate law. Mr. Fishman is a cum laude graduate of the Dedman School of Law at Southern Methodist University. For more information, visit https://www.hallettperrin.com/attorneys/bio/sam-fishman

Mr. Beck is a commercial litigator who handles complex matters for individuals and businesses in state and federal courts throughout Texas. His experience includes litigating complex contractual disputes, oil and gas matters, fiduciary obligations, and fraud claims. A cum laude graduate of Texas Tech University School of Law, Mr. Beck was named to the 2020 list of Super Lawyers Rising Stars, and he serves as the area director of the Teas Association of Defense Counsel. For more information, visit https://www.hallettperrin.com/attorneys/bio/jesse-beck

About Hallett & Perrin, P.C.

Hallett & Perrin, P.C. is an established, Dallas-based business law firm specifically positioned to serve business clients with multiple legal needs. Our bench of purposefully selected attorneys excel at forming lasting relationships built upon exemplary service, proven expertise, and a level of efficiency and value that only experienced lawyers can achieve. For more information, visit https://www.hallettperrin.com/.
Northbrook, IL -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/27/2021 -- According to a new market research report "Threat Intelligence Market by Application (SIEM, Security Analytics, Security and Vulnerability Management, Risk and Compliance Management, Incident Response), Deployment Mode, Organization Size, Vertical, and Region - Global Forecast to 2025" published by MarketsandMarkets, the threat intelligence market size is projected to grow from USD 10.9 billion in 2020 to USD 16.1 billion by 2025, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.2% during the forecast period. The increasing adoption of threat intelligence security solutions to detect cyber threats and detect future vulnerabilities that might occur in an organization are the key driving factors for the market growth.



Browse in-depth TOC on "Threat Intelligence Market"

277- Tables

36- Figures

270- Pages



Download PDF Brochure @ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=150715995



Based on deployment mode, the cloud segment to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period



The cloud segment is expected to grow at a higher CAGR, as SMEs are rapidly adopting the cost-effective cloud deployment model. This model helps SMEs avoid the costs associated with hardware, software, storage, and technical staff. Cloud-based platforms offer a unified way in the form of SaaS-based security services to secure business applications. Additionally, they automate all processes in organizations that fall short of staff to monitor security operations. Cloud-based solutions are also beneficial for organizations with strict budgets for security investments. Thus, organizations adopt cost-effective threat intelligence solutions to protect volumes of data from evolving cyber attacks. The cloud deployment model is the most preferred deployment model to secure web and mobile applications, and is used by most SMEs as it is easy to maintain and upgrade.



Information vertical to hold the largest market size during the forecast period



The information vertical includes IT solution and service providers, consulting companies, internet service providers, and communication companies. This vertical is constantly evolving in terms of the use of technologies, and is an early adopter of innovative technology solutions. It requires threat intelligence solutions at a large scale due to voluminous information produced daily. The increasing integration of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) with the daily activities of industries, families, governments, and consumers, along with the rising growth of cybersecurity, has led the information vertical to focus more on IT activities. Therefore, Information holds the largest market size during the forecast period.



North America to hold the largest market share during the forecast period.



North America registers the greatest number of security breaches, thus dominating the global threat intelligence market. It is a highly regulated region in the world with numerous regulations, such as Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), HIPAA, PCI DSS, and SOX, across verticals. North American companies are quite advanced when it comes to the deployment of threat intelligence solutions and best practices for their everyday business processes. The other drivers for the increasing demand for threat intelligence solutions include the increasing need for regulatory compliance, growing security concerns, and evolving cyber attacks. Companies that are focusing on enhanced security and compliance reporting requirements are rapidly adopting the threat intelligence technology. The US and Canada both have strong economic conditions and are expected to be major contributors to the threat intelligence markets growth. The geographical presence, significant Research and Development (R&D) activities, partnerships, and acquisitions and mergers are the major factors for deploying threat intelligence and services.



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Market Players



Key and innovative vendors in the threat intelligence market include IBM (US), Cisco (US), Trend Micro (Japan), McAfee (US), FireEye (US), VMware (US), AT&T (US), Check Point (US), DXC Technology (US), Mimecast (London), Infosys (India), Verizon (US), Secureworks (US), Proofpoint (US), CrowdStrike (US), Anomali (US), Webroot (US), Infoblox (US), NSFocus (US), LogPoint (Denmark), Bitdefender (Romania), Imperva (US), Recorded Future (US), Sumo Logic (US).



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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, and 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.



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HLRBO We are very excited about the new updates we have made to HLRBO, and we are especially excited about our new affiliate program. It provides local leasing companies with the opportunity to reach a national audience and build an additional revenue stream for their leases.

HLRBO, the nations premier hunting network, is rolling out two new programs that will help hunters, landowners, and local hunting companies alike.

The new program is called the HLRBO Affiliate Program, in which local hunting lease companies can sign up to be an HLRBO Affiliate. Affiliates are granted exclusive rights in the state their leases are located.

Additionally, the hunting lease companys listings are continually posted on HLRBO.com, where they will be exposed to thousands of hunters nationwide. The hunters pay $149.95/year to be granted exclusive access to affiliate leases and all other leases on HLRBO.

HLRBO CEO Heath Schubert said, We are very excited about the new updates we have made to HLRBO, and we are especially excited about our new affiliate program. It provides local leasing companies with the opportunity to reach a national audience and build an additional revenue stream for their leases.

The program is completely free for affiliates to sign up for and post their leases, and HLRBO will handle all marketing for its affiliates.

For information on the HLRBO Affiliate Program, http://www.hlrbo.com

ABOUT HLRBO

HLRBO is the premier online hunting lease network. HLRBOS mission is to be the first stop for hunters searching for a place to hunt. To fulfill that mission HLRBO provides listing options for private land owners, hunting businesses, hunting guides, and public land. HLRBO provides the flexibility for land owners and businesses to set their pricing and availability based on a traditional year lease, a monthly rental, weekly rental, daily rental, and even by hunting season. This makes it easier than ever for hunters to find the hunting opportunity they are searching for while giving land owners and businesses the flexibility they desire.
Our unique Pop-Up model supports local chefs and the local community with a giving modelfor every two meals purchased, we provide a meal to help fight hunger in the local community.

HUNGRY, a national platform for chef-centric meal services and events, along with food services management company Sodexo, are hosting a Pop-Up Restaurant at a local Round Rock hospital in North Austin. The Pop-Up, which runs five days a week indefinitely, offers our frontline heroes and hospital visitors authentic food options handcrafted by local Austin chefs.

Whereas similarly sized Pop-Ups rely on big-box restaurant chains for volume and name recognition, HUNGRY gives a group of diverse chefs the chance to generate steady business and share their menus made off site, while HUNGRY manages all the Pop-Up operations including onsite service and support with trained captains who help serve the food safely and expediently. By staffing its Pop-Ups with its own staff, HUNGRY ensures ultra-reliability, safety and VIP-level service from a dedicated staff thats onsite every day.

Were thrilled to partner with one of the worlds greatest foodservice organizations, Sodexo, to provide the variety of local, chef-prepared fare, service reliability and safety that is only available via a HUNGRY Pop-Up, said HUNGRY CEO, Jeff Grass. Our unique Pop-Up model supports local chefs and the local community with a giving modelfor every two meals purchased, we provide a meal to help fight hunger in the local community.

Working alongside Sodexo, HUNGRY designed exclusive menus for the Pop-Up fit for the hospitals unique population of staff, patients, and visitors.

The promise of recurring business with HUNGRY ensures that participating chefs will stay in business and keep their staff employed. HUNGRY has allowed us to extend our reach to individuals we might not have been able to serve otherwise, said Chef Ryan Durham, We are grateful to HUNGRY for allowing us the chance to survive through these tough times during the pandemic.

With opportunities like this Pop-Up, chefs and restaurant owners dont have to wonder if they will be without orders for the next day, week, or month, added Grass. This partnership provides them with a sense of stability.

HUNGRYs Pop-Up in Round Rock is their first to be held in Austin. Chefs will offer their meals daily at an average cost of $10-12. As with all HUNGRY events, the Pop-Up will use food containers and flatware that are either fully compostable and biodegradable or recyclable and reusable.

For more information on HUNGRY Pop-Ups, visit https://tryhungry.com/popup.

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ABOUT HUNGRY

HUNGRY was founded in 2017 by serial entrepreneurs Eman Pahlavani, Shy Pahlevani and Jeff Grass as a revolutionary platform engaging the $60 billion business and events catering market. The technology-enabled marketplace provides curated experiences to groups and businesses throughout the US via catering, chef pop-ups, snack packs, virtual cooking experiences, and food delivery services.

Notable investors in HUNGRY include Jay-Zs Marcy Venture Partners, Kevin Hart, Usher, Todd Gurley, Bobby Wagner, Ndamukong Suh and celebrity chefs Tom Colicchio and Ming Tsai. Through its partnerships, HUNGRY has donated more than half a million meals to people in need. The company also promotes environmental waste reduction through its Food Solutions programs.

HUNGRY is headquartered in Washington, D.C. and has rapidly growing operations in Philadelphia, Atlanta, Boston, New York City, Austin and Dallas. For more information, visit http://www.tryhungry.com
Our heavy industry customers are getting a lot more pressure from their clients to deliver faster and keep costs low while providing a high level of quality, service and security, says Reggie Gresham, vice president of sales for Matrix Integration.

Tight deadlines and even tighter margins have driven even the most traditional manufacturers and supply-chain companies to embrace new technology solutions. Matrix Integration, a strategic IT infrastructure partner for more than 1,000 businesses in Indiana, Kentucky and beyond, has been working with manufacturers throughout the pandemic and beyond to upgrade the critical pieces of their technology infrastructure to build a plant of the future.

Our heavy industry customers are getting a lot more pressure from their clients to deliver faster and keep costs low while providing a high level of quality, service and security, says Reggie Gresham, vice president of sales for Matrix Integration. New technology like robotics, IoT [internet of things] and AI [artificial intelligence] are key to increasing productivity. We help manufacturing companies strengthen their IT infrastructure to support these solutions.

Five Trends Driving the Plant of the Future

Working with manufacturers, warehousing and logistics companies, the leadership team at Matrix identified trends that are driving companies to create a plant of the future.

1) Cyber Attacks. Manufacturing is now the second most-targeted industry by cyber criminals, just behind finance. New, robust security and access solutions can help protect data and keep operations running with network operation centers (NOCs) and two-factor authentication.

2) Data Integrity Requirements. Clients are now so interconnected with their supply-chain partners that they are requiring proof that partners and their data are well protected. In addition to cybersecurity protections, comprehensive data backup and recovery plans built with solutions from vendors like Veeam and Hewlett Packard Enterprise can help ensure that data can be recovered in case of a physical or cyber emergency.

3) Phasing Out Legacy Technology. Older applications and hardware are more vulnerable to failure and cyberattacks. With the increase in security and data compliance requirements from clients, manufacturers are finally taking steps to embrace data transformation goals and implement business intelligence solutions.

4) Heavy Tech for Heavy Machinery. Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Virtual and Augmented Reality (AR/VR) and robotics: All of these technologies, which are becoming the new normal in the plant of the future, require massive amounts of computing power and bandwidth. Matrix helps achieve this by building a more robust wireless infrastructure to support bandwidth upgrades and improvements.

5) New Go-to-Market Strategies. Alongside their technology transformation, many manufacturers are going through a leadership transformation as well, as one generation passes their businesses to the next. Leaders in todays manufacturing market require more for less  more volume, more accuracy and better communication with less time and cost.

Next Steps for Manufacturing

As manufacturers look towards their technology investment in the near future, most know that if they havent already, it is time to evaluate how automation and technology can help them better achieve their business goals. For more information on how Matrix Integration works with manufacturers and supply-chain companies to develop their plants of the future, please contact Reggie Gresham, rgresham@matrixintegration.com.

About Matrix Integration

Matrix Integration is a strategic IT solutions and managed services provider that has been in business for more than 40 years. With clients regionally and offices in Indiana and Kentucky, Matrix Integration works closely with businesses and institutions to provide personalized consulting and managed services along with networking, data center, security, collaboration, telephony, and computing solutions. Strategic partners include Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Aruba, Cisco Systems, Meraki, VMware, Microsoft, and Veeam. Matrix Integration is a Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) and Women Business Enterprise (WBE), that has consistently been recognized on industry lists including CRN Solution Provider 500, CRN Managed Service Provider (MSP) 500, CRN Women of the Channel, and CRN Tech Elite 250.

Media Contact

Beth Strautz

(773) 895-5387

beth@vaguspr.com

IBM X-Force Threat Intelligence Index, https://www.ibm.com/security/data-breach/threat-intelligence
Since Venture Madness began in 1992, presenting companies like CampusLogic, Swimlane and WebPT have collectively raised more than $1 billion in funding.

Invest Southwest today announces the call for entries for 2021 Venture Madness, Arizonas longest running venture capital conference and pitch competition. Early stage and emerging growth companies will compete for cash prizes and get exclusive access to the regions most active, accredited angel investors and venture capital firms. This year, for the first time, the competition is open to companies across the U.S.

Since Venture Madness began in 1992, presenting companies like CampusLogic, Swimlane and WebPT have collectively raised more than $1 billion in funding, and approximately 40% secure funding following the event. That speaks volumes about the innovative, entrepreneurial spirit in our region, said Diana Vowels, 2020-2021 Chair of Invest Southwest and Board Member. We encourage ambitious companies to apply for the opportunity to gain valuable mentorship and high-impact networking with investors, business leaders and other entrepreneurs. This competition isnt just for early-stage companies, we encourage those with revenue up to $30M who are ready to scale to apply.

In partnership with the Arizona Commerce Authority, Venture Madness will be held on October 6-7, 2021 at the Phoenix Biomedical Campus in downtown Phoenix. Prior to the event, finalists will be chosen by an expert selection panel. Companies in six categories who meet the criteria can apply for free on the event website. The six categories this year include:



SaaS: SaaS/Software in process of developing product, finding product market fit, and/or generating consistent revenue.

Deep Tech/Hardware/IoT: Companies building physical products such as wearables, IoT devices, drones, robotics, 3D printing, space tech, AR/VR, Ag Tech, new materials, etc., as well as software solutions including autonomous driving, computational, imaging and recognition.

Growth: Established companies generating up to $30M revenue annually who are looking to scale.

Institutional Tech: Fintech, blockchain, cyber and ed tech companies in process of developing technology, finding technology market fit and/or generating consistent revenue.

Biotech/Healthcare/Life Sciences: Biotech, healthcare and life science companies with developed solutions in the form of devices, medicines, vaccines, procedures, and systems for solving health problems and/or improving quality of life such as pharmaceuticals, devices, procedures, systems, computer-supported info systems and more.

Consumer: Consumer-based technology, product or service companies focused on individuals and/or households through software, mobile devices and others.

Business growth in Arizona has propelled the state to become one of the best places in the country to start a company, said Sandra Watson, President & CEO at Arizona Commerce Authority and Invest Southwest Board Member. Were excited to open up this years event to companies across the country to help fuel their exposure, growth and potential future impact on expanding jobs and the economy.

The exposure presenting companies receive before and after participating really helps drive early awareness and credibility with key audiences, which is critical for a young company, said Karen Katzorke, Executive Director of Invest Southwest. Venture Madness often helps participants build their team, future mentors, board members and investors who help guide and fuel their journey for years to come.

Interested companies can apply at the Invest Southwest website: https://investsouthwest.org/venture-madness. The application deadline is 3:00 p.m. (MST) on Thursday, June 3, 2021.

Follow the latest Venture Madness news on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.

About Invest Southwest

Invest Southwest is the premier organization for connecting investors with the best and brightest ventures in the region. In addition to providing valuable information on topics important to the investment community, Invest Southwest offers ongoing opportunities for angel and venture capital investors to connect with early stage and emerging growth companies. Its signature event, the Venture Madness Conference, is a unique competition presented in partnership with the Arizona Commerce Authority. Venture Madness pits thoroughly vetted companies against one another in a head-to-head competition to crown a champion in each category. For more, visit http://www.InvestSouthwest.org.
Juwai IQI's Anis Anwar "While technology is at the core of our business, relationships matter, and Anwar excels in building mutually beneficial relationships."

Juwai IQI has appointed Dubai-based Anis Anwar as Vice President of Strategic Alliances for the Middle East and North Africa. Anwar joins Juwai IQI after more than 20 years in the banking sector, where he successfully built a web of relationships with high-net-worth individuals and corporate customers across the region.

At Juwai IQI, Anwar will assist the real estate technology group in expanding into new markets. He will also help high-net-worth clients to identify, evaluate and manage property investment opportunities around the globe.

Anwar most recently served as Senior Relationship Manager Corporate Banking, at Emirates NBD, a Dubai-based bank with operations across the Middle East, India, Southeast Asia and the United Kingdom. Emirates NBD is the only regional bank and the highest-ranked UAE company in the top 20 of the most recent Forbes' list of the World's Best Regarded Companies.

Prior to joining Emirates NBD, Anwar served as Senior Relationship Manager Corporate Banking with clients across UAE and Middle East, at National Bank of Fujairah in Dubai. He also held earlier roles at United Arab Bank in the UAE and the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce in Toronto.

Juwai IQI Group Co-Founder and Executive Chairman Georg Chmiel said:

"Anis will serve as the link connecting our business with entities and individuals who can benefit from the opportunities for partnership and investment that Juwai IQI offers.

"While technology is at the core of our business, relationships matter and Anwar excels in building mutually beneficial relationships. Juwai IQI now operates in 16 countries and through associates in five more. Vital markets where we have recently expanded include Portugal, Turkey, Mongolia, Singapore, Bangladesh, India and the United Kingdom.

"As Asia's largest real estate technology company, we use our tech platform to empower rapid growth and provide excellent service in every market in which we operate."

Juwai IQI Group Co-Founder and CEO Kashif Ansari said:

"We are delighted to welcome Anis to our team. He has deep business relationships across the Gulf region, Southeast Asia, Canada and Europe. He brings years of experience and an authoritative financial perspective to the growing Juwai IQI network.

"In the past year, our network has grown from about 10,000 real estate agents to more than 18,500. Anis will help us penetrate new countries and form beneficial relationships with investors.

"We advertise some US$4 trillion of property and have exclusive relationships with developers in multiple countries. All that makes us a useful investment partner for large-scale investors seeking profitable opportunities."

Anwar said:

"I'm very pleased to join Juwai IQI. It is one of the few real estate companies in the world to successfully deploy advanced technology alongside a robust agent network. I believe that business, values and results are inseparable. Values inspire trust, trust builds relationships and relationships drive growth. My new role is to enhance existing relationships and further develop new ones but above all to guide our valuable clients as their Trusted Ambassador to investment success."


Hollywood veteran, Dane Hanson has opened a new company in Austin that specializes in brand connections through comedy. Think 1/2 agency, 1/2 comedic consultant, 100% brilliant. While laughter as a value exchange is not new, Keaton Wilder's difference lies in the companys vision is to make comedy accessible to any type of business. This is perfectly captured in their most recent commercial, a funny B2B ad, "We Hired a Karen". https://youtu.be/e0SMyLNtlds

As a small business itself, Keaton Wilder is excited to partner with companies of all sizes. From commercial ideation to social media management, there are countless avenues to add humor to your brand narrative.

As a comedy writer and comedy director, Hanson sees his experience as being directly relevant to his business goals. He was the Head Writer of Punchline on Fox, and all-total, he produced almost 200 television episodes. He starred in more than 60 national television commercials. His video, Lie Detector, has gone viral on every social media platform, and was even copied word for word by an, um how to say this, "adult" video. "Definitely not bragging about that!", Hanson laughed.

As for being yet another person who moved from California to Texas in 2020, Hanson apologizes and promises not to change anything.

You can contact Keaton Wilder at:

http://www.keatonwilder.com

http://www.instagram.com/keaton.wilder

email: info@keatonwilder.com

phone: (512) 522-7350
StratusLIVE, Software for Social Good StratusLIVE has always valued our partnerships with the United Way network. Were thrilled to support United Way of Lancaster Countys efforts to drive innovative social change within southern Pennsylvania, said Jim Funari, StratusLIVE CEO.

StratusLIVE, a leading provider of cloud-based solutions for nonprofits, foundations, and workplace federations, announced today their inclusion as part of Kevin Resslers transformative changes at United Way of Lancaster County.

Ressler, United Way of Lancaster Countys President and CEO, joined the organization in January 2020. Driven by his desire for innovative solutions, he launched several initiatives to contribute to Covid 19 Relief including:

The co-branded Lancaster Cares Covid 19 Emergency Relief Response Fund with Lancaster County Community Foundation which raised one million dollars in three months.

The United Way Covid 19 Emergency Response Fund which raised over $179,000 for acute concerns outside the co-branded funds restrictions.

Project SOS or Share our Stimulus which distributes stimulus checks to those individuals who have experienced setbacks due to Covid 19. Since its launch, Project SOS has raised $229,000.

Along with these collaborative and rapid-response funds, Ressler spearheaded the search for a new CRM and online giving solution. The search was driven by Resslers passion for better tools to engage the community, understand donor priorities and provide more digital (or online) opportunities.

United Way of Lancaster Countys software selection process began in June 2020 with a comprehensive review of available systems and culminated with the implementation of StratusLIVE 365 and StratusLIVE Ignite in March 2021.

Prior to engaging StratusLIVE, United Way of Lancaster leveraged multiple tools for a variety of functions including online pledging, financial processing, and fundraising. This led to manual importing, exporting, and configuring of donor data.

With an eye toward the organizations future, Ressler recognized several aspects of the StratusLIVE solution that enable digital engagement, streamline operations, and increase internal efficiencies. In particular, he noted StratusLIVEs ease of use, basis on the Microsoft Dynamics platform, integration with Microsoft Teams and Outlook, and intuitive, modern design as key factors in selecting StratusLIVE.

Ressler stated, As an experienced nonprofit leader, I value continuous innovation. The StratusLIVE solution will allow our organization to scale appropriately and nimbly respond to the needs of our donors and constituents both today and into the future.

StratusLIVE has always valued our partnerships with the United Way network. Were thrilled to support United Way of Lancaster Countys efforts to drive innovative social change within southern Pennsylvania, said Jim Funari, StratusLIVE CEO.

To learn more about Project SOS or United Way of Lancaster County, visit uwlanc.org.

To learn more about StratusLIVE, visit StratusLIVE.com.

About United Way of Lancaster County

For 90 years United Way of Lancaster County has been helping generous contributors make change happen in their community. By focusing its Community Impact Fund investments on the underlying causes of the countys most serious problems, United Way maximizes investors gifts to accomplish four bold goals by 2025: (1) 100% of Lancaster County children will enter kindergarten ready to learn, (2) 100% of students and adults will have post-secondary credentials, (3) Decrease individuals and families living in poverty by 50%, and (4) 100% of individuals, children, and families will have a medical home. Fostering collaborations between nonprofit organizations, businesses, faith-based groups, volunteers, and government, United Way and its supporters create lasting change in Lancaster County, achieving results that no single sector could accomplish alone. https://www.uwlanc.org/

About StratusLIVE, LLC

StratusLIVE, an industry leader of Software for Social Good, empowers organizations to drive change and increase impact through its Nonprofit CRM and Online Giving Platforms. Built on the foundation of Integrity, Excellence, and Innovation, StratusLIVE 365 and StratusLIVE Ignite seamlessly integrate throughout the entire philanthropic organization, enabling greater visibility into donor insights. With a wide array of product features from enterprise-class relationship management, business intelligence, and analytical marketing to virtual giving, volunteering, DIY and Peer-to-Peer campaigns, and more, nonprofits engage more effectively with donors across a wide range of fundraising and development strategies. StratusLIVE, headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia, with products built on the Microsoft Dynamics 365 platform and aligned with the Nonprofit Common Data Model, has empowered enterprise nonprofits, federations, and foundations across the United States since 2010. StratusLIVE.com
Were thrilled that residents of the great state of Texas can now utilize our service so their lemon vehicle problems can get handled quickly by an experienced lemon law attorney and at no out-of-pocket cost to them. says Joel Geffen, co-founder of Lemon Larry.

Lemon Larry is now assisting consumers in Texas, helping connect them to an experienced lemon law attorney after purchasing a car that may qualify as a lemon. The service Lemon Larry offers is very valuable, as most consumers are very confused about what actually constitutes a lemon. Lemon Larry educates consumers about what constitutes a lemon, and provides a simple, free, online pre-qualification process to help determine if the vehicle may be a lemon. If it qualifies, a referral is made to a lemon lawyer for further discussion and review of the potential case.

One of the benefits of lemon law is that there are no out-of-pocket costs to hire a lemon lawyer. The attorneys fees are paid by the manufacturer if the vehicle is determined to be a lemon. Lemon laws can be thought of as mandatory new car warranty laws which generally require the manufacturer to either provide a new car replacement or a cash refund to consumers who purchased a lemon. Specifically, Texas lemon laws specify that a truck or car is a lemon if it has a substantial manufacturing defect thats covered under the manufacturers written warranty.

Most state lemon laws require that the defect or non-conformity could not be fixed after several repair attempts. Lemon Larrys simple, 2 minute, online screening process helps consumers determine whether they might qualify, and if so, speak to an experienced lemon law attorney who will provide legal assistance.

Were thrilled that residents of the great state of Texas can now utilize our service so their lemon vehicle problems can get handled quickly by an experienced lemon law attorney and at no the out-of-pocket cost to them. says Joel Geffen, co-founder of Lemon Larry.

More about Lemon Larry:

Lemon Larry is not a law firm. It is strictly a referral service to match consumers with experienced lemon law attorneys who are familiar with lemon law claim cases. They do not endorse any particular lawyer or law firm. Lemon Larry receives compensation based on leads generated from its website and advertising.

For more information about Lemon Larry, please call (833)505-3666, email help@lemonlarry.com or visit http://www.lemonlarry.com.
This webinar will pull back the curtain on partnering with the biopharmaceutical industry for vaccine development as a world class specialty laboratory.

A global pandemic such as COVID-19 started with scientific pledge of collaboration and involved transparency from commercial, governmental and non-governmental institutions in respond to the crisis. It was through science  virology, immunology, cellular immunology  and the worldwide collaborative effort that a vaccine was approved and made commercially available in 314 days. This webinar will pull back the curtain on partnering with the biopharmaceutical industry for vaccine development as a world class specialty laboratory.

Register for this webinar to hear Luc Gagnon, PhD, Vice President, Vaccine Sciences at Nexelis; and Bassam Hallis, PhD, Head of Preclinical Development at Public Health England, reflect on the past year and their contribution to SARS-CoV-2.

Speaking to the science behind vaccine assay development, the webinar will address the difference between a wild-type neutralization assay  the industry gold standard  and a surrogate pseudoparticle neutralization assay (PNA), how to generate a pseudoparticle, the correlation studies performed to support adoption of the PNA assay for vaccine and antiviral development and binding assays. In addition, the difference between wild-type strains and variants of concern (VOC) will be highlighted, including how to assess the impact of these VOCs on vaccine/drug efficacy.

Our team of scientists develop assays for use during all phases of vaccine development. In this webinar, they will detail the challenges, the scientific excellence needed to support this industry and the proactive and scientifically sound approach that will become the gold standard for vaccines and antivirals assay development moving forward.

Join the live webinar on Wednesday, June 16, 2021 at 9am EDT (2pm BST/UK).

For more information, or to register for this event, visit Living History: Our Role in Global Scientific Collaboration for SARS-CoV-2.

ABOUT XTALKS

Xtalks, powered by Honeycomb Worldwide Inc., is a leading provider of educational webinars to the global life science, food and medical device community. Every year, thousands of industry practitioners (from life science, food and medical device companies, private & academic research institutions, healthcare centers, etc.) turn to Xtalks for access to quality content. Xtalks helps Life Science professionals stay current with industry developments, trends and regulations. Xtalks webinars also provide perspectives on key issues from top industry thought leaders and service providers.

To learn more about Xtalks visit http://xtalks.com

For information about hosting a webinar visit http://xtalks.com/why-host-a-webinar/


We are excited to achieve this top spot on the list of Assisted Living Companies.

National Senior Housing Operator Meridian Senior Living is featured as one of the Top Assisted Living Companies of 2021 on the Abacus Life blog.

We are excited to achieve this top spot on the list of Assisted Living Companies," shared Kevin Carlin, Principal and Chief Sales Officer of Meridian Senior Living. Equally exciting is our continued partnership with Abacus Life, a leading buyer of life insurance policies in the U.S., to offer seniors and their families additional financial options in affording the senior living care they need.

Meridian Senior Living is honored to be recognized as a top provider for 2021, as only five operators are included on the list. Earning a spot on this exclusive list is based on Abacus Life's extensive research conducted on assisted living operators across the nation. Abacus provides this curated list on their website as a resource to seniors and their families who may be overwhelmed in their search for senior living options, as there are approximately 28,900 assisted living communities and nearly 1 million licensed beds in the U.S. today. For a full list of award winners, visit the blog post here.

Meridian's Assisted Living communities are vibrant and safer than ever. They remain open and have rooms move-in ready for new residents. Their dedicated staff is committed to the safety and well-being of their residents and are trained to assist in daily support functions such as dressing, bathing, medication management and especially the ability to immediately respond to emergency circumstances. Furthermore, Meridian understands the power of communal living and how to enrich the lives of their residents, families and employees through extraordinary experiences in their communities. For more information about Meridian Senior Living, visit meridiansenior.com.

About Meridian Senior Living:

Meridian Senior Living, a privately held company based in Bethesda, Maryland, owns and operates seniors housing communities across the country and provides operational consulting to 24 communities in China. With more than 75 communities in 20 states and more in development, Meridian is one of the largest seniors housing operators in the U.S. The company prides itself on providing the highest quality care, exceptional lifestyle programming and a distinctive dining experience for its residents. For more information on Meridian Senior Living, visit meridiansenior.com.

About Abacus Life

Abacus Life has been a leading buyer of life insurance policies in the U.S. for the last 16+ years. With over 10$ billion in policy face value purchased, we have helped thousands of clients maximize the value of their life insurance. We provide white-glove services to financial advisors and policy owners. For more information on Abacus Life, visit: abacuslifesettlements.com.
The NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope shot this image of a spiral galaxy called NGC 2276.

NGC 2276 is located 120.5 million light-years away in the constellation of Cepheus.

Also known as IRAS 07101+8550, LEDA 21039 and UGC 3740, the galaxy was discovered by the German astronomer Friedrich August Theodor Winnecke on June 26, 1876.

In the Atlas of Peculiar Galaxies, NGC 2276 is mentioned twice: as Arp 25 in the category spiral galaxies with one heavy arm and as Arp 114 in the category elliptical galaxies close to and perturbing spiral galaxies.

A closer look reveals a strangely lopsided galaxy shaped by gravitational interaction and intense star formation, Hubble astronomers said.

The new image showcases the unusually contorted appearance of NGC 2276, an appearance caused by two different astrophysical interactions: one with the superheated gas pervading galaxy clusters, and one with a nearby galactic neighbor.

The interaction of NGC 2276 with the intracluster medium  the superheated gas lying between the galaxies in galaxy clusters  has ignited a burst of star formation along one edge of the galaxy, they added.

This wave of star formation is visible as the bright, blue-tinged glow of newly formed massive stars towards the left side of this image, and gives the galaxy a strangely lopsided appearance.

NGC 2276s recent burst of star formation is related to the appearance of black holes and neutron stars in binary systems.

On the other side of the galaxy from this burst of new stars, the gravitational attraction of a smaller companion is pulling the outer edges of NGC 2276 out of shape, the astronomers said.

This interaction with the small lens-shaped galaxy NGC 2300 (not seen here) has distorted the outermost spiral arms of NGC 2276, giving the false impression that the larger galaxy is orientated face-on to Earth.
Past News Releases RSS

MULTIPLE AWARD-WINNING THEATRE COMPANY BRINGS LA THEATER BACK IN A COVID FRIENDLY WAY THIS SUMMER POOLSIDE.

LA's award-winning theater company, Lost Angels ("Killer Joe", "Bug") brings you the world premiere of POOL BOY. Presented poolside at a gorgeous home on Mulholland Drive with a spectacular view of Los Angeles from the Hollywood Hills. This unique theater event will have a limited run - Saturdays and Sundays @ 5:15PM starting July 17th, 2021.

This covid-friendly outdoor event will be the first site specific play under the Lost Angels Theatre Companys banner. LATC (who won the 2005 Ovation award for Tracy Letts Killer Joe) is once again teaming up with Director, Scott Cummins (Killer Joe, Bug), and will mark their third collaboration. Cummins won the Ovation Award for his direction in LATCs production of Killer Joe. Playwright Wendy Hopkins (Second City alum) penned this two-hander comedy, which features a cast of two Ovation award-winning actors, Laura Niemi (Killer Joe, Bug) and Pat Towne (Rock of Ages, Bronco Billy).

Set in Los Angeles during the 2020 pandemic, house sitter Glenn is looking after an elite home in the Hollywood Hills. Isolated and desperate for human contact, she attempts to make a connection with an atypical Pool Boy. Despite their contrasting personalities and rusty social skills, they forge an unlikely bond in a Covid colored world.

After an inconceivably odd year, LATC presents this unique theatrical experience as a love letter to the City of Angels, celebrating its art and beauty in a quintessentially Californian way  with the sun on our face.
Driven by her desire to use her voice to join the desire of millions of people to renounce war, Mzia Kvirikashvili Lawrence pens A Spiritual Bridge (published by AuthorHouse UK).

The book is a collection of poems translated from Georgian to English. Here, Lawrence retains the soul and rhythm of 52 Georgian poets whose works represent the feelings, emotional experiences and joint pain of the ordinary citizens of Georgia.

It is too difficult to live in Georgia as the collapse of The Soviet Union destroyed the old management system and creating a new system is exceedingly difficult, the author states. These poems are about abandoned houses after several wars, feelings of emigrants caused by this chaos. Also, it is about love and soul pain  there is something beautiful in these two mysteriously linked feelings about love and soul pain.

A Spiritual Bridge hopes to provide a glimmer of joy to an eternally tormented country and at the same time introduce to the English-speaking world how a Georgian person thinks. Visit https://www.authorhouse.com/en-gb/bookstore/bookdetails/819725-a-spiritual-bridge to purchase a copy of the book.

A Spiritual Bridge

By Mzia Kvirikashvili Lawrence

Softcover | 5 x 8in | 440 pages | ISBN 9781665584661

E-Book | 440 pages | ISBN 9781665584678

Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About the Author

Mzia Kvirikashvili Lawrence was born and raised in a part of Georgia called Abkhazia. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, followed by a series of wars, Georgians were expelled from their native lands, including Abkhazia. The countrys destruction was followed by the massive migration of people to save themselves and their families. Lawrence graduated from Tbilisi State University with a diploma of honor. For many years, she worked at Iliauni University in Tbilisi as an editor and then as a lecturer. Her other published works are Adam's Confession (poetry) Georgia and Love (poetry) and Ordered Murder (detective story).

AuthorHouse, an Author Solutions, Inc. self-publishing imprint, is a leading provider of book publishing, marketing, and bookselling services for authors around the globe and offers the industrys only suite of Hollywood book-to-film services. Committed to providing the highest level of customer service, AuthorHouse assigns each author personal publishing and marketing consultants who provide guidance throughout the process. Headquartered in Bloomington, Indiana, AuthorHouse celebrates over 23 years of service to authors. For more information or to publish a book visit authorhouse.co.uk or call 0-800-014-8641.
This kind of decision has the potential to be life-altering, financially speaking. Its prudent to get a second opinion before deciding, and our 'second check' system offers that opportunity, said Kevin Mahoney, an attorney at the NC Eminent Domain Law Firm and a former NCDOT Attorney General.

A massive project to relocate and widen NC 55, bypassing Angier, will soon lead dozens of property owners in Wake and Harnett Counties into negotiations with the NCDOT.

The first two sections of the NC 55 construction project will affect approximately 140 homes and businesses along an 8.9-mile section of highway, largely to be built on new location, stretching from Doug Johnson Lane in Angier to Jicarilla Lane in Willow Spring.

The NCDOT has set aside more than $25 million to compensate owners whose property is being taken.

The offers some property owners receive from state officials may amount to far less than what their property is worth. Nor would these offers make up entirely for the potential danger property owners may face from the increase in traffic, or the frustration when faced with trying to sell their property with a greatly diminished market value, according to former NCDOT attorneys at the NC Eminent Domain Law Firm.

Property owners affected by this project are invited to attend, at no obligation whatsoever, a virtual seminar to learn more about their rights.



Virtual Seminar Details:

- June 10, 2021 - 7-9 p.m.

- Register here for seminar

SECOND CHECK

By North Carolina law, property owners whose land or businesses are targeted for acquisition ultimately receive an offer from the state. If the owner chooses not to accept the offer and takes no further steps, the state will still acquire the land and deposit the amount of the original offer with the County Clerk for the owner.

In most cases, the property owner is then free to pursue a potentially better, fairer arrangement without losing the first offer.

If continued negotiations do not raise the amount, the owner still has the original offer. But if continued negotiations are successful, the property owner will receive a second check in addition to the first offer.

Knowing what is legally compensable, and having read hundreds of appraisals, there are certain things that quickly jump off the page to an experienced reader, Kevin Mahoney, an attorney at the NC Eminent Domain Law Firm and a former NCDOT Attorney General, said. This kind of decision has the potential to be life-altering, financially speaking. Its prudent to get a second opinion before deciding, and our 'second check' system offers that opportunity.

The NC Eminent Domain Law Firm is available to talk with property and business owners, and to try to answer questions about the unique circumstances regarding their individual properties. Those questions typically include:

Property owners who have questions about this project and how it will affect them are encouraged to:

Call the NC Eminent Domain Law Firm at 1-877-393-4990.

Attend the free, no-obligation virtual seminar.

ABOUT THE NC EMINENT DOMAIN LAW FIRM

The NC Eminent Domain Law Firm is dedicated solely to representing property owners impacted by eminent domain law. It is led by three former Assistant Attorneys General who worked for the NC Department of Transportation handling some of their largest and most important cases. The firms attorneys have over 70 years of combined experience working exclusively in land condemnation. The NC Eminent Domain Law Firm is a division of the Law Offices of James Scott Farrin, which has more than 50 attorneys, based in Durham, North Carolina, with 15 additional offices statewide: Asheville, Charlotte, Fayetteville, Goldsboro, Greensboro, Greenville, Henderson, Morganton, New Bern, Raleigh, Roanoke Rapids, Rocky Mount, Sanford, Wilson, and Winston-Salem.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Stan Abrams

1-877-393-4990

NC Eminent Domain Law Firm

4325 Lake Boone Trail

Suite 100

Raleigh, NC 27607
ODUOnline, Old Dominion University's Office of Distance Learning, was proud to partner with Women in Defense Greater Hampton Roads (WIDGHR) to deliver several virtual events focused on professional development.

The first event was WIDGHR's Industry Day. This annual event is designed to help companies and businesses connect with women within the defense industry for developmental opportunities, networking, encouragement and professional development.

Traditionally an in-person event, challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic forced Industry Day to be conducted online to maintain social distancing guidelines. Despite this shift in environment, Industry Day was a huge success.

"I was impressed with how smoothly the event went," said Jimettra Lundy, Vice President of Women in Defense Greater Hampton Roads. "[ODU] was a godsend, and the team was wonderful to work with. Everything went smoothly and we received so many compliments. We will definitely partner with ODU for events to come."

The next event, the WIDGHR Professional Development Day took place on May 14th, featured speakers and workshops to assist local women in defense to connect, find resources, and build critical skills in their industries. Speakers for the WIDGHR Professional Development Day included Congresswoman Elaine Luria and Christie Thomas, Vice President of Contracts and Pricing at Huntington Ingalls Industries - Newport News Ship Building.

You can learn more about WIDGHR by visiting their website: https://www.widghr.org/

About Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University, located in the coastal city of Norfolk, is Virginia's entrepreneurial-minded doctoral research university and has been delivering distance learning programs for 30 years. We offer more than 100 programs through ODUOnline in a variety of formats, allowing students to complete degree programs across the world. ODU serves more than 24,000 students annually by providing the same rigorous academics online and on-campus. Learn more about ODUOnline's programs by visiting https://online.odu.edu.
Our attorneys have deep industry experience as former GCs or senior in-house lawyers at life sciences companies, enabling them to provide judgment-level legal support at rates that are considerably less than a traditional law firm.

Outside GC LLC, the nations leading provider of on-demand, in-house legal counsel services, has added six (6) new partners to its life sciences practice, essentially doubling the size of its team: John Caruso, Dara Reppucci and Sabune Winkler (New England); Michele Linde (Mid-Atlantic); Perri Melnick (California) and Cyndi Baily (South). With this additional bench strength, Outside GC is well-positioned to continue supporting its thriving and growing portfolio of pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, and health technology clients.

Biotech financing broke records globally in 2020, including in Massachusetts, where we are headquartered, with biotech companies receiving $5.8 billion in venture funding, noted Bill Stone, co-founder and Managing Member of Outside GC. Stone added, this incredible industry growth has enabled Outside GC to become a leader in delivering legal services defined by exceptional experience and value. Whether clients need support with R&D, clinical trials, supply chain issues, or post-commercial matters, our attorneys have deep industry experience as former GCs or senior in-house lawyers at life sciences companies, enabling them to provide judgment-level legal support at rates that are considerably less than a traditional law firm.

Outside GC is seeking life sciences attorneys with substantial in-house experience to join its growing team. We offer a unique alternative to a traditional law firm or in-house career, providing flexibility for professionals desiring a reasonable work-life balance, while continuing to work on highly sophisticated legal matters, explained Stone.

About Outside GC

Outside GC provides on-demand, in-house legal counsel services to companies of all sizes, across a wide range of industries, at highly competitive rates. The firms offerings include negotiating and drafting commercial agreements of all types; financing and acquisition transactions; employment and immigration matters; data privacy and healthcare regulatory matters, pre-litigation dispute resolution; and intellectual property protection and strategy. Together with its sister company, Patent GC, which provides on-demand patent and trademark legal services, the firm has over 90 attorneys across the country. Outside GCs life sciences clients include Binx Health, Contrafect, Enzyvant Therapeutics, Foghorn Therapeutics, Genzyme, Homology Medicines, Kiniksa Pharmaceuticals, Korro Bio, Lyra Therapeutics, Partner Therapeutics, Praxis Precision Medicines, Verastem, Zealand Pharma, and many more. For more information, please visit http://www.outsidegc.com or http://www.linkedin.com/company/outside-gc-llc, or call 617-737-5000.
PerformLine has become the go-to platform leading enterprises choose to power compliance programs across departments, channels, products, and partners, ultimately providing better coverage, deeper insights, and lower costs for critical compliance functions

PerformLine, a leading provider of omni-channel compliance technology, today announced a strategic investment from M33 Growth, a Boston-based venture and growth stage investment firm. The growth capital will drive further innovation across PerformLines enterprise grade platform and propel customer success as well as continue to accelerate the companys existing growth.

The M33 investment comes as PerformLine further establishes itself as a best-in-class compliance solution to meet enterprise pre-production and live monitoring needs after recently announcing the addition of a Document Review module to its omni-channel compliance platform.

While the level of regulatory scrutiny institutions face, especially those in financial services, insurance and technology, remains extremely high, the channels used to communicate with customers (and the market at large) continue to grow more complex, further intensifying compliance risks.

The PerformLine platform, trusted by brands globally, provides end-to-end sales and marketing compliance, from pre-production verdicts with document review to monitoring across consumer facing channels including the web, calls, messaging, emails, and social media. PerformLine empowers compliance teams at some of the worlds largest banks, fintechs, mortgage lenders and tech companies to protect their brands by proactively finding and remediating potential regulatory risks while scaling coverage and gaining efficiencies through automation.

Compliance and consumer protection are critical initiatives for brands in regulated markets. We see tremendous long-term opportunity for PerformLine as their technology enables enterprises to quickly build, centralize, and scale their compliance program, all in one platform solution, said Brian Shortsleeve, Co-Founder and Managing Director of M33 Growth. [CEO and Founder] Alex and the entire PerformLine team have built an exceptional brand and technology platform as well as a passionate, growing customer base. PerformLine exemplifies the type of company we look to invest in, and were excited to partner with their team to further build on their success.

Due to extensive experience working with regulators and clients in regulated industries since 2007, PerformLine has become the go-to platform leading enterprises choose to power compliance programs across departments, channels, products, and partners, ultimately providing better coverage, deeper insights, and lower costs for critical compliance functions.

"The M33 Growth investment validates the growing demand for PerformLines compliance solutions and reflects confidence in our growth plans," said Alex Baydin, CEO and Founder of PerformLine. When looking for an investment partner, we placed a premium on finding a firm with a track record of partnering with category-leading software businesses and a willingness to lean into developing our innovative, leading product and helping to execute our high-growth plans. We found that partner in M33."

PerformLine will benefit from the deep experience fueling sales and marketing engines, driving strategic acquisitions, and capital support that M33 will provide as experienced and successful software investors.

ABOUT PERFORMLINE

PerformLine is a leading provider of compliance technology that empowers organizations to mitigate regulatory risk across their sales and marketing channels, including the web, calls, messages, emails, documents, and social media. PerformLine automates the path to discover, monitor, and mitigate consumer protection risks and ensure brand safety. The PerformLine SaaS platform features full workflow capabilities, real-time analytics, remediation, monitoring, and archiving while providing significant time and cost savings by automating compliance activities across channels and departments. Visit http://www.PerformLine.com for more information.

ABOUT M33 GROWTH

M33 Growth is a venture and growth-stage investment firm that partners with founders and CEOs who have successfully bootstrapped their companies to strong growth and are positioned to rapidly scale their companies and breakthrough as market leaders. With deep experience fueling sales and marketing engines, driving acquisitions, and building value through data assets, M33 Growth seeks to propel portfolio companies to succeed in their markets. Founded by veterans of renowned investment firms with considerable operational experience, the Boston-based firm seeks to invest in companies in the software, healthcare, and services sectors throughout North America. Learn more at m33growth.com.
Pet Parents new corporate headquarters is set to be completed in December of 2021. This investment and expansion in our company infrastructure give us the opportunity to attract and add more kick-ass pack members, the room to stretch out and grow, to support us in continuing to improve the lives of more and more pet parents and furbabies every day.

Innovative pet company Pet Parents celebrated a large expansion for the company this week with the start of construction for their new 45,000 square foot building. Located in Ankeny, Iowa, this $7.7 million office, distribution and warehouse facility will more than double the amount of space the company was previously utilizing.

"Just about 5 years ago, I was fulfilling orders in our garage, and now Pet Parents has doubled or nearly doubled year over year ever since I started in 2016, which was recognized by Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest-growing companies in America," said CEO and founder Blake Anderson. "It's fitting one of the fastest-growing companies in the US is headquartered in one of the fastest-growing cities in America. We're delighted to deepen our roots in Ankeny, Iowa, where we call home and which is well situated in close proximity to several wonderful state and private universities."

The new dog-friendly building will be a modern, open-concept building with optimized acoustics, walls of windows for natural light, and smart office building systems to create an atmosphere where their employees, or The Pack, can continue to be inspired and help change pet families' lives. The 20,000 square feet of office space will have several conference, break out, and individual rooms for collaboration and additional privacy, as well as custom workstations for ultimate privacy, work, and comfort for employees and furbabies.

Because pets are family, the Pet Parents office will have quite a few dog-friendly amenities. The new headquarters will have two large, size-specific dog parks for The Pack and their furbabies, as well as a spacious outdoor patio with WiFi, a pergola, and grills for outdoor eating, working, and watching their furbabies in the dog parks.

The building will also have an elevator to the second story with 11,000 square feet of office space, which will be built out further in the near future. This upstairs office space will include a state-of-the-art product development studio named Blondie's Legacy, which is named after Anderson's childhood pup, the initial inspiration for Pet Parents.

Pet Parents has seen impressive growth each year since they were founded in 2016, which was recognized by Inc. 5000 with a three-year revenue growth of 1,208% and was the 378th fastest-growing company in America in 2020. Being the fastest-growing company in Iowa required Pet Parents to need more warehouse and office space. The new building will be located at 1810 SW Magazine Road in Ankeny, Iowa, with 21,000 warehouse square feet, 20,000 square feet of office space, and 4,200 square feet of retail space. This expansion will help Pet Parents create at least 28 new, full-time jobs in Ankeny over the next three years, growing from 18 desks in their previous office space to the space for 75 workspaces.

"This investment and expansion in our company infrastructure give us the opportunity to attract and add more kick-ass pack members, the room to stretch out and grow, to support us in continuing to improve the lives of more and more pet parents and furbabies every day," Anderson added.

Construction of the new Pet Parents facility is expected to be completed in December of 2021.

About Pet Parents

Pet Parents began its journey in the beginning of 2016 & continues to grow in size every year. Recognized by Inc. 5000 for being one of the fastest-growing companies in America in 2020, Pet Parents creates products to help pet parents raise their pets from birth to senior years, keeping their homes clean and pet families happy and healthy. Their brand & product lines are at the crossing point of two macro pet industry trends: the humanization of pets with a focus on healthcare.

Learn more about Pet Parents at https://petparentsbrand.com/.
Politics & Poetry  Podcast We are used to thinking of President Carter as the leader of our nation but, perhaps not as a poet. In his book, Always a Reckoning, we are introduced to President Jimmy Carter as a poet, storyteller, and artist in his own right. Lisa Campbell, Co-host, Politics & Poetry

Producers, Lisa Campbell, Ron Campbell, Lexi Hunter and Haley Lunski are thrilled to announce the launch of the third episode of Politics & Poetry featuring the enduring politics and meaningful poetry of President Jimmy Carter.

During this episode, join three generations of political activists and poetry lovers as they read a curated collection of poems from the book, Always a Reckoning, written by President Jimmy Carter. In addition to poetry selections, the hosts join in thoughtful discussion about the ways that this world-renowned leader uses his unique voice, rhyme, rhythm, and personal stories and human moments to capture our interest and inspire benevolence, activism and change.

Co-host, Lisa Campbell shares words from another famous poet, Miller Williams to kick off the episode, Some might not see these lines, in their plainness, as poetry, but poetry is the art of making the memorable out of the ordinary. She continues, These plain-spoken, intimate words may be surprising for some, because we are used to thinking of President Carter as the leader of our nation, naval officer, global human rights activist, and Nobel Peace Prize winner but, perhaps not as a poet. But in his book, Always a Reckoning, we are introduced to President Carter as a poet, storyteller, and artist in his own right.

During the podcast, co-host, Ron Campbell sets up the flow by describing the timeless connections, the nexus between President Carters lifetime of political service and his poetry in four key areas:



Importance of honesty and integrity in politics

Urgency of protecting our environment

Critical need to end racial discrimination

Rallying call to action for full equality of women

Lexi Hunter, third co-host, also reads several poetry selections and reminds us of the many lifelong contributions resulting from President Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carters political and humanitarian efforts, President Carter has been recognized the world over for his progressive economic and social policies in which he emphasized ecology, efficiency in government, and the removal of racial and gender barriers. This past year, President Carter was honored by the Georgia General Assembly for his leadership at home and worldwide as a reflective, compassionate and humble leader.

Lifelong fans of President Jimmy Carters humanitarian work, political service and artistic spirit, Politics & Poetry hosts highlight our former Presidents written words and provide a glimpse into the heart and soul of a leader who shares his love for the people, places and politics that connect us all.

About Politics & Poetry:

Politics & Poetry is a new podcast about the intersection of written political words and civic engagement. Join three generations of political activists for a spirited discussion about the influence, importance and interaction between poets, politicians and people. Listen and join the conversation: https://www.politicsandpoetry.org
Printed Kicks' Patriot Richardson Hat It is carefully stitched and crafted with an original design exclusive to Printed Kicks, making it distinct from hats you will find anywhere else.

Printed Kicks, a family-owned apparel business in Florida has launched its new Patriotic Richardson Hat, which features a mesh pattern of the signature stars and stripes, as well as a gray fabric brim. Available directly through their site for $29.99, this hat is available in numerous variations that all carry their own unique insignia and messages.

The Patriotic Richardson hat is available with five distinct patches, including a traditional American flag, a white American flag, a Betsy Ross 1776 flag, a One Nation Under God flag that includes the 13 original stars around a cross, and finally the Merica white leather patch. Each of these patches makes a unique statement that is sure to have you standing out amongst your peers and get yourself noticed. In addition, any of these can be shipped with a Rebellion Becomes Duty Decal for only $4.99, which features Thomas Jeffersons famous quote on a 3.5 inch sticker.

The hat itself includes an adjustable snapback strap alongside a mid-profile height, pre-curved visor, and a twill/poly mesh completed with a cotton headband. This sturdy item is shipped in a hat box and is one size fits most, with numerous size tightness configurations. It is carefully stitched and crafted with an original design exclusive to Printed Kicks, making it distinct from hats you will find anywhere else. Every order is packaged with care to ensure it is kept in pristine condition when it arrives on your front doorstep, providing you with exactly the item you ordered.

Printed Kicks is an American-owned business that offers a 365 day satisfaction guarantee with easy returns, to offer ease of mind to potentially wary buyers. Most orders will arrive within two to four business days when shipped, except for shoes, and all will include a tracking number for you to follow your shipments progress. For those with additional questions or needs, they can reach out to info@printedkicks.com to speak with a representative.


As the demand for cloud continues to grow, I plan on applying my skills and expertise to promote the benefits of working with RapidScale to companies looking for a trusted partner.

RapidScale, a Cox Business company, welcomes Jason Scillieri and Nick Syris to the team as cloud solutions consultants. Reporting to Sales Director, West-Mark Szotkowski, Scillieri will be responsible for supporting channel partners and customers in Arizona, while Syris will be enabling agents and end-users in the central-south region.

For about 18 years, Scillieri worked at Verizon Wireless, holding various sales roles including business account executive, strategic healthcare account executive, and manager solutions architect for healthcare/ government. He has over 20 years of experience in technology sales, focusing on managing specialized accounts, business development, and sales enablement. Scillieris sales growth and performance awards demonstrate his ability to deliver the right technology to his customers and meet their business needs.

I believe being open and honest goes a long way in building trust, and I always use a consultative selling approach. I love learning about the businesses of my partners and customers, including what has made them successful or what hinders their success, said Scillieri. I use open and honest conversations to discover potential gaps within their business and proactively find a solution that helps solve those issues. Im looking forward to building long-lasting relationships with my new team members, channel partners, and customers.

Before joining RapidScale, Syris worked at Oracle for the last five years in multiple sales roles. He has expertise in new sales development and customer acquisition and has managed multi-billion-dollar accounts across the Central US from Texas to Minnesota. In addition, he is knowledgeable in selling cloud solutions, on-premises license products, middleware integration solutions, and data security tools to mid and large enterprises. Syriss sales acumen has won multiple organizational awards, and his experience in sales enablement has supported his partners and new hires across the organization. In addition, he has led training that effectively educated partners on result-driven sales strategies, prospecting techniques targeting strategic accounts.

Im looking forward to working closely with my new colleagues, master agents, partners, and customers throughout the TOLA region to provide maximum value so they can remain focused on their business objectives ahead, said Syris. Im especially excited to work with partners and customers who are eager to start their cloud journey. As the demand for cloud continues to grow, I plan on applying my skills and expertise to promote the benefits of working with RapidScale to companies looking for a trusted partner.

About RapidScale

Flexible enough for the SMB and powerful enough for the enterprise, RapidScale, a Cox Business company, is a global managed cloud services provider helping organizations increase IT productivity, improve security, and empower remote workforces. Some organizations partner with RapidScale to manage portions of their IT, while others offload it all. Through our global network of data centers and our 24/7/365 high-touch support team, we obsess over creating an exceptional IT experience through a human approach to managed cloud. For more information on RapidScale, visit http://www.rapidscale.net.

Cox Communications owns Cox Business and is a facilities-based provider of voice, video, and data solutions for commercial customers. More information about Cox Communications, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, is available at http://www.cox.com.

About Cox Business

The commercial division of Cox Communications, Cox Business provides voice, data, and video services for more than 355,000 small and regional businesses nationwide, including health care providers; K12 and higher education; financial institutions; and federal, state, and local government organizations. The organization also serves most of the top-tier wireless and wireline telecommunications carriers in the U.S. through its wholesale division. For more information, please visit http://www.coxbusiness.com.

Media Contact

Nikki Salazar

nikki.salazar@rapidscale.net
"Frank Boucher Volkswagen of Racine is offering a $500 bonus on select new Volkswagen vehicles."

Recent college grads that are looking for additional savings on a new Volkswagen do not have to travel far. Frank Boucher Volkswagen of Racine is offering a $500 bonus on select new Volkswagen vehicles through the VW College Grad Bonus program. Interested parties are encouraged to visit the dealership to learn more about this program.

This bonusalso known as the Volkswagen College Graduate Programis to be used to buy or lease a new, unused Volkswagen through Volkswagen Credit. Participants must meet certain criteria to qualify for the $500 bonus.

To qualify, the interested party should have graduated within the last 24 months or be expected to graduate within the next six months. The customer must have a degree from a U.S. or Canadian college or university. The graduate must be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident. A full-time, permanent job or a written commitment from a future employer is needed to fulfill the requirements for the bonus.

The interested party must apply and undergo credit approval in order to obtain the $500 bonus from the College Graduate Program. The graduate will be asked for references, proof of insurance, a copy of the degree, an official transcript and contact information for the college or university the customer attended. While credit history is not required, the existing credit must be in good standing and have no previous derogatory credit marks.

The College Graduate Program is to be run now through Jan. 3, 2022. Further information and details can be found at the Frank Boucher Volkswagen of Racine website, https://www.bouchervw.com/ or by visiting the dealership in person. This dealership is located at 9601 Washington Ave. in Racine. Store hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Staff at Frank Boucher Volkswagen of Racine can also be reached by calling 262-725-4046.
Sociobiologist and technology futurist, Rebecca D. Costa, announced today she and 12 acclaimed global subject experts have joined forces to host a new subscription podcast titled The Costa Report. Similar to the previously syndicated radio program of the same name, Costa and co-hosts will offer in-depth, politically agnostic, coverage of issues which cannot be adequately examined in 3-minute news segments. The program explores innovative solutions along with pragmatic actions leaders can take to resolve problems which have proven resistant to change. The first episode of The Costa Report is scheduled to air on Monday, September 6, 2021 (Labor Day). The program is currently accepting early subscriptions.

According to Costa, The reason conspiracy theories, agendized news and misinformation have become rampant is because theres so little to counteract these dangers. With so much data being generated today, its not difficult to string together unrelated facts into a narrative which, on the surface, sounds credible. In fact, the more sensational the narrative, the bigger the audience. The bigger the audience, the more networks charge advertisers. The more they charge, the bigger the profits. Its a systemic problem which has caused the public to distrust what they read and hear. Our goal is to rebuild the public trust by having world-acclaimed subject experts speak directly to the public  no over-simplification, no politics, no sponsor-driven content, no nonsense.

The all-star lineup of experts stands as proof The Costa Report is serious about establishing a conduit between authorities in their field and the person on Main Street. From the founder of The Climate Web, Mark Trexler, to former Vice President of Product Development for Abbott Labs, Dan Schmitz, to the Managing General Partner of venture capital firm, Rockport Capital, David Prend, to the legal counsel responsible for educating the House, Senate and Executive Branch on quantum computing, space flight and other emerging technologies, Paul Stimers, to theoretical neuroscientist and founder of Socos Labs, Vivienne Ming, The Costa Report has assembled a depth of knowledge and experience unmatched by any other podcast, television, radio or internet media offering. Moreover, the programs unwavering commitment to examine issues from all reasonable perspectives distinguishes it from other news venues.

The Costa Report is a 2-hour, advertising-free program which includes 4-minute intermissions which introduce listeners to little-known musicians; report on new technology breakthroughs; feature a Listener Corner wherein the questions and comments of subscribers are read on air. Each subscription includes access to an Ask Me Anything page (where listeners have direct communication with the host and co- hosts), a free newsletter, discounts on program merchandise and a plethora of other benefits.

For more information visit: https://www.thecostareport.com/

About Rebecca D. Costa

Rebecca D. Costa is an acclaimed American sociobiologist, technology and science futurist, and author. She is the former host of, The Costa Report radio program which was syndicated throughout the United States by the Genesis Communications Network through 2018.

For over four decades Rebecca Costa has worked with the worlds largest organizations to get in front of disruptive technologies, emerging scientific discoveries, and foreseeable trends. From the impact 5G, social robots, AI, genomics and nanotechnology have on how we work and live, to how facial recognition, cryptocurrency, space flight, personalized nutrition and innovative methods for storing energy will usher in a demand for new products and services, Costa has her hand firmly on the pulse of whats around the next corner.

Costas work has been heralded by visionaries such as Richard Branson, Alvin Toffler, Dr. James Watson, Elon Musk, and other others, and featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, USA Today, and Guardian. She is a frequent subject-expert commentator on television and radio.

Costa founded and managed one of the largest technology marketing firms in Silicon Valley where she worked side-by-side with the founders and executives of Apple Computer, Hewlett-Packard, Oracle, Tandem, Ungermann-Bass, launching history- making innovations. Following the sale of her company, she spent six years writing The Watchmans Rattle which became an international bestseller garnering her the prestigious Edward O. Wilson Biodiversity Technology Award. Her second book, On the Verge, was released in 2017 to critical acclaim, shooting to the top of Amazons business and technology books. Costa is represented by the American Program Bureau and Scott Meredith Literary Agency.

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The Global Ambassador in Phoenix The Global Ambassador is a deeply personal, legacy project for me that furthers my pursuit of combining unmatched hospitality with culinary excellence

One of the industrys leading restaurateurs and premier hospitality brand developers, Sam Fox, is making his official foray into the luxury hospitality industry with the announcement of his internationally inspired hotel, The Global Ambassador.

Where Phoenix, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley converge, The Global Ambassador will combine a refined and elevated hospitality experience that is created through a global lens and locally connected. Every detail of the well-appointed, 141-room hotel has been meticulously poured over, studied and designed by Fox himself.

Each hallway, tucked-away courtyard and amenity of the Global Ambassador is purposefully designed to elicit one cultivated experience that is rich in charm and sophistication. Upon arrival, The Global Ambassador will exude a vibrant energy with a lively, bustling atmosphere and worldly flair that is carried throughout the hotel.

The Global Ambassador is a deeply personal, legacy project for me that furthers my pursuit of combining unmatched hospitality with culinary excellence, said Fox, who will manage, operate and co-develop the hotel under his newly formed Author & Edit Hospitality company. This is so much more than a hotel  its a luxury lifestyle brand that we hope will inspire and draw travelers from all over the world to explore Phoenix in a new way. The Global Ambassador is the natural evolution of my passion for creating memorable hospitality experiences.

As a dynamic restauranteur, Foxs stellar lineup of inventive culinary offerings will define The Global Ambassador. The hotel will boast five original dining venues with cuisine influenced by the Mediterranean region including Greece, Italy and Morocco. Most notably within the Global Ambassador will be the largest rooftop restaurant in the state, at 18,000 square feet, that overlooks the iconic Camelback Mountain.

The hotel is oriented around its plaza courtyard with a sprawling lawn accented with lush, verdant landscaping and inviting seating that encourages guests to relax and unwind. The world-class amenity offering includes a Wellness Center complete with an expansive fitness level and ultra-luxe spa where health, beauty and fitness experts will curate treatments and practices designed to put the mind and body in perfect balance. In addition, a Members Club will take exclusivity to the next level, which will be the first of its kind in Arizona with limited membership.

With The Global Ambassador, we are evolving luxury hospitality at every level and from every perspective in order to deliver something truly remarkable for the well-traveled set who is looking to be inspired and intrigued in an authentic and unexpected way, said Fox. This is a convergence of significance found in hospitality, wellness and culture.

Sam Fox is developing The Global Ambassador with his trusted collaborator, business partner and friend Brian Frakes of Common Bond Development Group, a company known for its notable lifestyle development projects. Frakes, who has an extensive background in development, will help bring Foxs ideas to life by aiding in design, architectural oversight and financial modeling.

Nelsen Partners Architects has been hired as the lead architect, Berghoff Design Group will oversee the landscape architecture and the interiors will be done by Foxs longtime muse Judi Testani of Testani Design Troupe who has designed the majority of Foxs projects, both personally and professionally.

This news of Foxs first hotel comes on the heels of the opening last month of his The Twelve Thirty Club in Nashville that garnered national headlines.

Foxs venture into hospitality is the culmination of more than 20 years in the restaurant industry and having opened over 100 restaurants of his own, with many more openings planned in 2021. He is an 11-time James Beard Award semifinalist for Restaurateur of the Year, a New York Times best-selling cookbook author and was named one of the 50 most influential people in the restaurant industry by Nations Restaurant News for five consecutive years. In 2017, Fox successfully sold his health-driven, seasonal True Food Kitchen, that he founded with Dr. Andrew Weil, to Centerbridge Partners. In 2019, he announced the sale of his restaurant group, Fox Restaurant Concepts (FRC) to The Cheesecake Factory. As the Founder of FRC, Fox remains responsible for its day-to-day operations, forming a one-of-a-kind partnership never before seen in the restaurant industry.

The Global Ambassador is located within RED Development's mixed-use development on the northwest corner of 44th Street and Camelback Road in Phoenix. The opening is slated for Fall 2023.

For more about The Global Ambassador, visit GlobalAmbassadorHotel.com.

About Author & Edit Hospitality

Author & Edit is the creation of restaurant innovator Sam Fox, who has developed a growing lineup of unique concepts found across the United States. Now, Fox embarks on a journey to design, develop and operate memorable hospitality experiences. The properties are authored with an extraordinary vision and meticulously edited to create offerings that are not only seen, but felt. What sets the company apart is not just in material, but in the culinary expertise, passion for local authenticity and subtle nuances that make up its collective story. Each Author & Edit property is an original; created through a global lens and connected to the diverse communities, cities and neighborhoods in which they reside. The companys growing collection includes The Global Ambassador, an iconic hotel in the heart of Arcadia, where Phoenix, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley converge, as well as the remarkable The Twelve Thirty Club at 5th and Broadway in Nashville.

About Common Bond Development Group

Common Bond Development Group is a commercial real estate development company located in Phoenix, Arizona that specializes in the identification, acquisition, development and management of hotel, retail and office properties across the southwestern United States. Common Bond was formed in 2014 by Brian Frakes, previously of Westcor and Westcor Development Partners. Throughout his career, Frakes has developed nearly 5-million square feet between shopping centers, restaurant/retail centers, corporate office buildings, lifestyles centers, and regional malls. With the introduction of their latest project, The Global Ambassador, Common Bond Development Group expands their niche into hotel development with longtime creative partner, Sam Fox. For more, visit CommonBondDg.com.
Setting up the Palm Beach Home Design & Remodeling Show. More people are moving to South Florida than ever before and we couldnt be more excited to offer thousands of homeowners a one stop market place to meet experts, become inspired, shop, and to get quotes.

The Home Design and Remodeling Show, after undertaking an over one year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will be kicking off its expansion into Palm Beach County with a grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony.

Leading the way in home design innovation for over 40 years, the Home Design and Remodeling Show is the perfect one-stop shop destination for all home products and services like interior design, flooring, home automation, security, kitchen remodeling, custom closet design, home decor, impact windows, solar, landscaping, patio furniture, hot tubs, pools and so much more.

Palm Beach County Mayor, Dave Kerner will be among the attendees welcoming Show President and Director, Adam Kayce and the Home Design and Remodeling Show team to Palm Beach along with Palm Beach County Convention Center General Manager, Dave Anderson and The Palm Beaches team.

We are excited to be back to producing our one of a kind event and now Palm Beach is ready for our marketplace, said Kayce. We all viewed home living differently in the past year but now coming out of the pandemic home living and home lifestyle is a greater priority than ever before. More people are moving to South Florida than ever before and we couldnt be more excited to offer thousands of homeowners a one stop market place to meet experts, become inspired, shop, and to get quotes.

Recognized as the largest home improvement and design marketplace in Florida, Home Show Management Corporation proudly serves to boost not only sales and leads for participating businesses from its Shows, but also exposure and brand recognition from its long-standing local reputation.

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About the Home Design and Remodeling Show: For more than 40 years, Home Show Management Corp. has been bringing together industry-leading professionals from the entire spectrum of home renovation products and services in South Florida. With home renovation shows in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beach every year, the Home Show always features the latest trends and brands in the home improvement industry. Due to its regular interactions with the local market, Home Show Management Corp has established strong relationships with many of the best companies in the area to allow home improvement events to consistently meet impressive standards in terms of quality and size. Learn more at https://homeshows.net.
Sylvan Learning, the leading provider of supplemental and enrichment education for students in grade K-12, has formed an exclusive partnership with Ceylan Duru and her sister Gonca to open the 750-plus-unit franchises first locations in Turkey.

Five satellite locations offering STEM classes are scheduled to open in July, with the main center in Istanbul  offering a full program of learning services, including tutoring  slated to launch in September.

Born and raised in Turkey and educated in Switzerland and the U.S., the entrepreneurial, multilingual sister duo decided to capitalize on their passion for education and what they saw as a gap with after-school education in Turkey.

Not only does Sylvan offer a strong program that supports professional private tutoring, there arent any education centers here that are licensed in the U.S., so theres really no competition, Ceylan said. Were really excited to be the first to offer this program here in Turkey.

Initially catering to students ages 6 to 13 with a focus on STEM education, the program will quickly ramp up to offer a breadth of Sylvan services to older students up to 18 years old, including reading, writing, math, SAT and ACT prep, study skills and advanced reading  programs designed to challenge students, build confidence, boost skills and help deliver better grades.

The goal is to give them a good education in English with native English speaking teachers who are trained by Sylvan to teach STEM the way it should be taught, Ceylan said. That allows us to offer a very advanced outcome and increased opportunities for our students.

As a mother to a nine-year-old daughter and a six-year-old son, Ceylan and her sister, who has a 15-year-old daughter and 13-year-old-son, were especially impressed with Sylvans customized style of teaching. They take each child as an individual and draw a road map for that specific child, depending on his or her needs, said Ceylan. They dont compare them to each other, which is a very big advantage.

The results of Sylvans proprietary Sylvan Method  developed through academic research, years of teaching experience and technology  speak for themselves. Based on independent research, Sylvan students see up to three times more academic growth than other students. Sylvans Personalized Tutoring programs guarantee progress results.

After an initial assessment test, we are able to give specific advice to our students depending on their needs to allow them to become more successful and confident students in class and in life, said Ceylan.

With more than 750 points of presence worldwide, Sylvan Learning, which has thousands of school relationships in North America, is quickly becoming a coveted brand internationally with locations in Canada, Hong Kong, UAE, Kuwait, Vietnam and now Turkey.

Were confident that students in Turkey will benefit from Sylvan Learnings inclusive, personalized learning environment under the leadership of Ceylan and Gonca, said Sylvan Learning Center CEO John McAuliffe. By fostering a love of learning, Sylvan and its partners around the world help children reach their full potential.

Ceylan and Gonca are already envisioning what that will mean to their students and their families.

We wanted a brand that we could grow across Turkey, and we felt like Sylvan Learning would be able to provide that opportunity, Ceylan said. Our ultimate goal is to translate the entire curriculum into Turkish. Right now, its only in English, but if we are able to translate this into Turkish and reach all the target markets, it will make a huge difference in our country.

Visit the Sylvan Learning Turkey website and follow the Instagram @SylvanTurkey profile to learn more.

ABOUT SYLVAN LEARNING

With more than 40 years of experience and more than 750 points of presence throughout North America, Sylvan Learning is the leading provider of personal learning for students in grades K-12. Sylvan is transforming how students learn, inspiring them to succeed in school and in life. Sylvans proven tutoring approach blends amazing teachers with SylvanSync technology on the iPad for an engaging learning experience. Sylvan also leads the way with Sylvan EDGE  STEM and accelerated courses  and Sylvan Prep  college and test prep courses. Sylvan supports families through every stage of the academic journey. For more information, visit http://www.SylvanLearning.com or SylvanLearning.com/blog.
Although one-third of the people we surveyed stopped dating altogether, others are taking safety precautions in order to protect themselves and others, such as requiring mask usage, proof of vaccine, or a negative covid test.

Testing.com, a trusted informational guide for medical lab testing and at-home screenings, has published a survey about relationships and dating habits during the COVID-19 pandemic. The organization surveyed 600 Americans aged 16 to 54.

According to the recent report, 33% of singles have not dated since the start of the pandemic and 16% only date virtually. For singles meeting potential partners in person, 1 in 4 require proof of a COVID-19 vaccine, 61% require masks, and 48% prefer meeting outdoors. Approximately 23% of survey respondents said they contracted COVID-19 from a first date.

Its no surprise that dating during COVID-19 has been challenging for single Americans to navigate, says clinical lab scientist Adel Karsou. Although one-third of the people we surveyed stopped dating altogether, others are taking safety precautions in order to protect themselves and others, such as requiring mask usage, proof of vaccine, or a negative covid test.

Testing.com conducted the study to increase awareness about dating habits among Americans during the current health crisis. The survey results were generated via the online survey platform Pollfish on March 21, 2021. To view the detailed report, please visit: https://www.testing.com/1-4-of-singles-want-proof-of-covid-19-vaccination-before-a-first-date/

ABOUT TESTING.COM

Testing.com is a trusted guide for lab and at-home testing information and resources. The online platform was launched in 2018 to help educate consumers about various lab tests and health screenings. Testing.com uses comprehensive, data-driven research to deliver content that includes articles on common conditions/diseases, current lab test and at-home screening options, medical testing fees, and more. The site is produced by a team of experts that work with healthcare professionals to review and provide the most accurate and up-to-date lab testing information. To learn more, visit https://www.testing.com/.
The Perfect Provenance Napa

The Perfect Provenance, an award-winning luxury lifestyle store founded by Lisa Lori with locations in Tiburon, CA and Greenwich, CT, has opened of its newest location in Napa at 1300 First, Suite 352. This summer, shoppers can visit the 1520-square foot storefront while strolling down First Street.

Founded in 2016, the Perfect Provenance features curated men's & women's fashion, home decor and gifts from around the world. Home decor designers include Kartell (Italy), Baobab (Belgium), and LSA International (UK). Fine fragrances and beauty from Veronique Gabai are inspired by the Mediterranean and the French Riviera and Acqua di Parma from Italy. Womens designers from Vanessa Bruno and Ba&sh Paris paired with accessories from Palmaccio bring chic Parisian looks to Napa. Menswear includes Hartford Paris and Benson & Cherry from Belgium.

"I was married in the Napa Valley, and it has always had a special place in my heart. It has been my dream to open a store here and I can't wait to share our collections with the local community and visitors."

The Perfect Provenance also features its own signature collections of fine jewelry, home fragrance and the Smile Collection, a collection of products that benefit the international children's charity Operation Smile. Smile California tees were launched in May and will be featured in the Napa store, as well as other Smile products including totes, cosmetic bags and home fragrance.

For more information about The Perfect Provenance, please visit https://www.theperfectprovenance.com/ or follow the company @theperfectprovenance on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and YouTube.

About The Perfect Provenance

The Perfect Provenance is a family of luxury lifestyle boutiques founded by world traveler Lisa Lori in 2016. Retail locations include Greenwich, CT, Tiburon, CA and a new store on First Street in Napa, opening May 2021. A proud winner of multiple Best of the Gold Coast Awards in Connecticut and named the Reader's Choice Awards 2021 winner for Best Boutique by the Marin Independent Journal for the store in Tiburon, The Perfect Provenance proudly curates seasonal collections of stylish finds for women and men from around the world, including fashion, gifts, art and home decor. The latest exhibit, Peace, Love & Prosperite is a celebration of life and happiness.
Thomas Koron, a first-time novelist, has completed his new book East Coast Eventide: a thrilling immersion into the underground world of illicit Atlantic City casinos in the 1960s.

From the glamorous city streets and dark back alleyways of Atlantic City, to the luxurious mansions of New Jerseys most powerful, a nonstop game of strategy has begun. Two long-time rivals are compelled to join forces in a battle toward ultimate dominance in New Jerseys underground.

Published by Page Publishing, Thomas Korons suspenseful tale gives an up close and personal look into the nitty gritty of the citys most notorious names in organized crime when a game that had long ago ended is uprooted once again.

Years after the battle for control of the city between Frank Moniarti and Nicholas Malone appears to have concluded, Moniartis son finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time when his attempt at an engagement ring purchase ends in his witnessing a jewelry store robbery. With the arrival of New York crime boss Vincent Plemagoya, Moniarti and Malone team up to handle the newcomer in a tireless battle for revenge and redemption.

Readers who wish to experience this invigorating work can purchase East Coast Eventide at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes Store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or media inquiries, contact Page Publishing at 866-315-2708.

About Page Publishing:

Page Publishing is a traditional, full-service publishing house that handles all the intricacies involved in publishing its authors books, including distribution in the worlds largest retail outlets and royalty generation. Page Publishing knows that authors need to be free to create, not mired in logistics like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes, and so on. Pages accomplished writers and publishing professionals allow authors to leave behind these complex and time-consuming issues and focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at http://www.pagepublishing.com.
We provide safe, reliable crews and an advanced line of high-pressure water jet cleaning equipment with endless automation and customization options.

Thompson Industrial Services adds to its more than 20 regional offices with the opening of its new Cincinnati, Ohio location. The office, located at 10250 Chester Road, will serve as a hub for Thompson to provide vacuum, hydro excavation, hydroblasting, and other critical services to industrial facilities throughout southwest Ohio, northern Kentucky, and southeast Indiana.

Thompson will be holding a special hiring event on May 25 at the new regional office as part of aggressive efforts to add qualified new members to the 20-25 employee team. New hires will enjoy comprehensive training, ongoing leadership development opportunities, a highly competitive benefits package, and a culture that prioritizes the health and safety of every employee on every job.

The Cincinnati regional Thompson office comprises over 7,300 square feet of space, newly refurbished to include a state-of-the-art training center in which technicians will hone their skills and experts will share their knowledge to make our services more effective, safer, and more efficient to minimize clients downtime. The resurfaced two-acre grounds of the service location will house a fleet of advanced equipment, including two vacuum trucks, five service trucks, 325-hp hydroblast pumps capable of up to 10,000 PSI, 4,000-PSI pressure washers, and a hydroblasting automation trailer boasting our most up-to-date remotely controlled robotic equipment.

With a well-established presence in Kentucky working with major utilities, Thompson Industrial Services is very optimistic about expanding its life cycle offerings to industrial facilities in the Tristate area and beyond. From its new Cincinnati office, conveniently located along I-75, Thompson teams can bring safe excavation, hydrocutting, and wet and dry vacuum equipment to the sites of clients that are looking for better ways to complete notoriously hazardous, time-consuming, and expensive tasks. Through automation, fully customizable equipment, and an incredibly deep knowledge/experience base, Thompson Industrial Services reduces downtime for facilities while providing superior chemical cleaning, water blasting, and other critical services.

Thompson Industrial Services also offers highly specialized services, including SCR catalyst cleaning, HRSG offline cleaning, and dry ice blasting for cleaning projects that cannot include moisture or abrasives. Through hydro and pneumatic vacuum excavation services, Thompson teams quickly dig in sensitive areas, uncovering delicate utility and telecom lines without causing damage. Their expert divisions can also engineer custom solutions or provide on-site support.

To learn more about the new Cincinnati office and the hiring event on May 25, call 1-800-849-8040 or visit https://www.thompsonindustrialservices.com. There you can also explore more of Thompsons cost-saving services, including aerial drone inspection, sponge blasting, and ultra-high pressure hydroblasting for cutting through steel and other materials.

Thompson Industrial Services

10250 Chester Rd

Cincinnati, OH 45215

(800) 849-8040
Middle-market CEOs and business owners have clearly faced one of the most challenging periods their companies will likely ever encounter as a result of the COVID19 pandemic and associated economic and market fallout, Newport CEO Kevin Poole.

Newport LLC, a strategic advisory firm focused on the mid-market, today announced the results of their 2021 Mid-Market CEO Survey. In early 2021, Newport asked mid-market CEOs, across multiple industries throughout the United States, to share their experiences with the COVID-19 pandemic. The resulting report revealed that while the global pandemic created an incredibly challenging business environment, many mid-market business leaders rose to the challenge - quickly making operational adjustments and deploying an array of incremental changes that, in some cases, resulted in growing their business.

Newports report examines how mid-market leaders navigated the business environment created by the pandemic, and the impacts on growth, profitability and transactions (M&A) activity, and the way forward in the post-pandemic business environment.

Middle-market CEOs and business owners have clearly faced one of the most challenging periods their companies will likely ever encounter as a result of the COVID19 pandemic and associated economic and market fallout, said Newport CEO Kevin Poole. The past 15 months has demonstrated more than ever that leaders who are capable and prepared to lean into change will reap outsized rewards for themselves and their businesses.

Key findings:



2/3 of the companies we surveyed reported that their business has been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

More than one third took multiple actions in adjusting their sales function, and as a result they outperformed other companies.

CEOs report that their current top 3 priorities are revenue growth, customer experience, and employee wellness.

Of those businesses contemplating a transaction (M&A), more than half indicated that COVID had delayed their plans.

Newports 2021 Mid-Market CEO Report reflects the experience and thinking of some of the most innovative and dynamic CEOs in the United States, along with analysis and insights from Newports mid-market experts. To access the full report, visit: https://newportllc.com/2021-ceo-survey,

For the purpose of this report, the mid-market is defined as companies with revenues between US$10-150M.

About Newport

Newport is a strategic advisory firm that helps privately held, growth-stage companies grow faster, deliver maximum value at exit, and successfully transition from one generation to the next.

When businesses thrive, so do their customers, employees, and communities. Achieving this impact is what energizes us. Our expanding network of more than 50 partners operates from major cities across the United States.

For more information, contact:

Eric Jepsky

Partner, Newport LLC

Eric.jepsky@newportllc.com
It was heartening and humbling for me to be surrounded by hundreds of women who make impactful contributions to their communities each day

CEO & Chairman Tammy Whitworth proudly represented Window World this month as the keynote speaker for the 2021 ATHENA Awards in Warren, Ohio, an event that recognizes the professional achievements of women in the Youngstown area. As an entrepreneur who has overcome significant adversity while leading Americas largest exterior remodeling franchise, Whitworth was an excellent candidate to kick off this years ceremony.

Presented by the Youngstown Warren Regional Chamber and The Vindicator, the 28th Annual Athena Awards Dinner honors individuals who strive toward the highest levels of professional accomplishment: women who excel in their chosen field, have devoted time and energy to their community in a meaningful way and also open doors so that others may follow their path.

During her keynote presentation, Whitworth described the untimely death of her husband and former Window World CEO, Todd Whitworth, in 2010. His passing left her a widowed business owner and a single mother to their three young children.

As she described in her speech, Whitworth harnessed the power of community, corralling some of her husbands most trusted advisers and friends to form a board of directors. With their guidance, Whitworth has led the company to continued success.

After directing the path forward for Window World following the loss of her husband, Whitworth was faced with a new challenge: breast cancer. Diagnosed in 2015 at age 47, Whitworth fought and won the battle. Now cancer-free, she never allowed the illness to hinder her companys or her familys success.

While I hope my story encouraged anyone navigating their way through one of lifes challenging moments, it was heartening and humbling for me to be surrounded by hundreds of women who make impactful contributions to their communities each day, Whitworth says. Each ATHENA Award recipient is raising the bar for women around the world and setting a precedent for future generations of female leaders to follow.

ATHENA International describes itself as a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to developing, supporting and honoring girls and women around the globe from the classroom to the boardroom. More than 8,000 leaders have been honored with the ATHENA Award worldwide since the organizations founding in the 1980s.

Mahoning County Juvenile Court Judge Theresa Dellick was named the 2021 ATHENA Award Winner at the Ohio event. Find more information about the event from coverage by The Vindicator.

About Window World

Window World, headquartered in North Wilkesboro, N.C., is Americas largest replacement window and exterior remodeling company, with more than 200 locally owned franchises nationwide. Founded in 1995, the company sells and installs windows, siding, doors and other exterior products, with over 19 million windows sold to date. Window World is an ENERGY STAR partner and its windows, vinyl siding and Therma-Tru doors have all earned the Good Housekeeping Seal. Through its charitable foundation, Window World Cares, Window World and its franchisees provide funding for St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital. Since its inception in 2008, the foundation has raised over $12 million for St. Jude. Window World also supports veterans and the military through its Window World Military Initiative (WWMI). WWMI defines Window Worlds commitment to honor and serve Americas veterans, active military, and military families across the entire franchise system by focusing on three pillars: Careers, Community Outreach and Partnerships. The Veterans Airlift Command (VAC) has been a partner since 2008. During that time, Window World has contributed over $2.5 million in flights and donations to the organization. For more information, visit WindowWorld.com or call 1-800 NEXTWINDOW. For home improvement and energy efficiency tips, decor ideas and more, follow Window World on Facebook and Twitter.
I am of such an age, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren, 71, confided to her editor, Laura Godwin, during Thursday mornings keynote, that little girls were actively told all of the things that we couldnt do. While acknowledging that the world has changed greatly since her childhood, she maintains that theres still a lot of that out there.

If theres one thing that Warren hopes that her picture book, Pinkie Promises (Holt/Oct.), illustrated by Charlene Chua, accomplishes, its that little girls...and their brothers will realize that girls are capable of doing anything they set their minds to doeven if it defies stereotypical gender expectations. After all, she says, she not only ran for officeand won, becoming Massachusettss first female senator in 2012she also ran to be U.S. president during the last campaign.

Im not president. But you know what? I did win something: I ran for president, she pointed out. I met hundreds of thousands of people and I got to talk about things I believe in and fight for them. In many ways, this is what this book is about.

In Pinkie Promises, Polly is told over and over all the things that she cant do because she is a girl. When Polly meets a woman running for President, the two link their pinkies and promise each other to remember instead all the things that girls do. The whole rest of the book, Warren explains, Is about the things Polly takes on, including a run for class president.

The win is in the trying, Warren insists, disclosing that "best of all," the story ends with Polly snuggling down under the covers and dreaming big. Because thats what girls do.

While Warren is a seasoned published author, with a dozen books to her credit, this is her first childrens book. I write books and the books are all about words, she told Godwin as they discussed Chuas illustrationsincluding the side stories tells visually about Pollys relationship with her mother and about their rambunctious Golden Retriever, modeled upon Warrens own dog, Bailey.

Praising the illustrations for complementing and expanding upon the story shed written, Warren marveled at how the art accompanying the text in Pinkie Promises causes the imagination to fire in all kinds of directions.
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind.  Purdue University announced Thursday (May 27) that Ian Hyatt will be the universitys next chief information officer, effective Tuesday (June 1).

As chief information officer, Hyatt joins the university leadership team and will oversee information technology throughout the Purdue system and head Information Technology at Purdue (ITaP), Purdues central IT organization. ITaP operates the "Purdue System Cloud"  the IT infrastructure that spans three statewide campuses and offers a nationally recognized high-performance computing complex that supports Purdues computational research.

Hyatt will be charged with continuing to integrate software solutions  such as SAP, SuccessFactors and Brightspace  as well as building a robust information security strategy across the Purdue system. He will have responsibility for the annual systemwide IT spend of $160 million and staff of more than 1,100, and will directly manage ITaPs staff of 500 and annual $85 million budget. He will report to Chris Ruhl, executive vice president and chief financial officer and treasurer.

Hyatt was selected following a national search among candidates within and outside higher education. He will succeed Karl Browning, who has served in the position since 2019 and will be retiring this year.

Karl brought a quiet but unmistakable competence and stability to this role, Purdue President Mitch Daniels said. His last year may have been his most distinguished, as he brought the universitys technology through a truly unprecedented time, with the transition to online/hybrid learning, a huge uptick in demand for online services, and the installation of video/audio capture technology in all of Purdues classrooms. Like everywhere he has served, from business to state government, he left Purdue a stronger institution.

Hyatt comes to Purdue from IGT Providence, where he has been the vice president of global services, logistics and fleet since 2017 and has held several other vice president roles within IGT. Hyatt is also currently serving as the state command chief master sergeant in the United States Air Force and Rhode Island Air National Guard, where he has served since 1985.

Ians notable track record of serving others will be an invaluable asset to our campus community in this position, Daniels said. I look forward to working with him as the university continues to invest in technology and modernization under his leadership.

About Purdue University

Purdue University is a top public research institution developing practical solutions to todays toughest challenges. Ranked the No. 5 Most Innovative University in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, Purdue delivers world-changing research and out-of-this-world discovery. Committed to hands-on and online, real-world learning, Purdue offers a transformative education to all. Committed to affordability and accessibility, Purdue has frozen tuition and most fees at 2012-13 levels, enabling more students than ever to graduate debt-free. See how Purdue never stops in the persistent pursuit of the next giant leap at https://purdue.edu/.

Journalists visiting campus : Journalists should follow Protect Purdue protocols and the following guidelines:
If you're interested in submitting a Letter to the Editor, click here.

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Last year, adult film star Ron Jeremy called for the Parks Department to cease plans to cut down his childhood tree. Today it still stands, but plans to take it down havent changed.
Global distributor Keshet International (KI) has completed sales of Seven Studios thriller Secret Bridesmaids Business across several territories.

Originally produced for Australias Seven Network, Secret Bridesmaids Business (6x60) is a drama of tangled secrets and dangerous obsessions starring Abbie Cornish (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri), Katie McGrath (Supergirl, Jurassic World), Georgina Haig (Snowpiercer, The Crossing), and Alexander England (Little Monsters, Alien Covenant).

KI has sold the rights for the thriller to SBS in Belgium, with HRT picking-up the free TV rights in Croatia.

Meanwhile in Indonesia, OTT and pay-TV service Mola TV has acquired the drama as part of a wider multi-title deal, while Irelands RTE and the Netherlands Talpa TV have both picked up the free TV rights in their respective territories.

Finally, KI has also sold Secret Bridesmaids Business to TVNZ in New Zealand, TV4 in Sweden for its AVOD service TV4 Play and Channel 4 in the UK, to be broadcast on More4 and available to stream on All 4.

In addition, Keshet Studios is developing a US adaptation of the format, which is based on Elizabeth Colemans stage play inspired by her book of the same name, targeted for streaming and premium cable.

Keren Shahar, KIs COO and President of Distribution said: We are thrilled but not surprised to see Secret Bridesmaids Business being picked up by such a broad range of broadcast partners. This series has everything viewers are looking for right now  sassy female leads, gripping plot twists and lots of drama!
The mobile network performance benchmark firms study measured next-generation network users everyday usage experience in four major UK cities in 2021 - London, Bristol, Birmingham and Coventry - offering insights into the most typical end-user 5G experience in the UK cities, that is everyday 5G performance. This includes results recorded on both 5G-only technology and 5G mixed-mode, what RootMetrics said was an increasingly common experience for UK consumers of switching between 5G and 4G LTE during the same data service.Combining these two 5G possibilities, the Everyday 5G results scorecard i s said to reflect the most typical user experience when connected to 5G for any amount of time, offer a high-level snapshot of what RootMetrics recorded for each operator across four recently tested cities to date in the first half of 2021. The analyst emphasised that Whether users connected to 5G mixed mode or 5G-only, the key points to understand were the quality of 5G access and the level of 5G performance.The analyst stressed though that the results do not imply which operator is offering the best 5G performance as a whole in any of the four cities included in its scorecard, across or within any of the 16 cities RootMetrics tests every six months, across the UK as a whole, or over a longer period of time.Looking at individual operator performance, RootMetrics said that the good news for EE customers was that the operator delivered what it regarded as impressive results in each of the four cities tested. EEs Everyday 5G availability was found to be the highest in three of the four cities tested, while its Everyday 5G median download speeds were also the quickest in three cities, and tied with O2 in Birmingham. Compared with testing across the same four cities in 2H 2020, EEs Everyday 5G availability had improved in three out of four cities and remained consistently broad in the fourth, Birmingham at 64.7%. EE also showed what it said was particularly impressive improvements in Bristol, where its Everyday 5G availability jumped from 36.1% to 46.2% in the first half of 2021 to date and its Everyday 5G median download speed had increased by 32.7 Mbps since the second half of last year.Although observing that the operator was generally not as fast as its main competitors, the study showed Three UK recorded strong Everyday 5G median download speeds in each city tested, with its quickest speed of 119.0 Mbps recorded in Coventry, a speed that would allow users there to download a 600MB video from Netflix in just 42 seconds. Threes best Everyday 5G availability result was 47.4% in Birmingham, which trailed only that of EE in the city (64.7%).O2s results were something of a mixed bag. The operators speeds were strong in general, and O2 clocked the fastest Everyday 5G median download speed in London at 154.9 Mbps. However, the study also revealed that its Everyday 5G availability trailed that of the competition in three out of four cities, with its highest Everyday 5G availability of 28.6% recorded in Bristol. That said, RootMetrics added that O2 users could be encouraged to learn that O2s Everyday 5G availability and median download speeds improved in all four cities since 2H 2020. Vodafone didnt register any 5G results in Coventry, but in the other three cities RootMetrics looked at, the Everyday 5G median download speeds were seen as fast, ranging from 121.9 Mbps to 143.8 Mbps. Moreover, Vodafones Everyday 5G availability improved by at least 14% in all three cities since 2H 2020, with its improvement in Bristol particularly impressive, rising from 34.3% in 2H 2020 to 48.5% this time.5G in the UK has historically been fast, and the good news is that were seeing both faster speeds and more widespread Everyday 5G availability so far in 2021, said RootMetrics chief executive officer Kevin Hasley. As 5G continues to expand, users are spending more and more time on 5G mixed mode, so we feel its important to factor those results into our reporting to capture the most typical 5G experience, especially for early adopters in the UK.
Coronavirus

27 new cases and 3 more deaths in Berks

Berks County adds 27 COVID cases as 3 more deaths are reported
United Way

RACC employee grabs $776 in shopping spree

RACC employee grabs over $776 in groceries and goods during United Way of Berks shopping spree
The shoreline at Blue Marsh Lake as seen from the Dry Brooks Day Use Area in Bern Township on a rainy Friday afternoon July 10, 2020.
Today President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris will meet in the Oval Office with the family of George Floyd, the man who died on this date one year ago in the custody of Minneapolis police. The occasion is an opportunity to look at the enormous upheaval the reaction to Floyd's death has caused in the last year.
Picking up the pieces in Gaza; the uneasy, uncertain peace between Israel and Hamas; PLO and Hamas still can't find common ground; Russia on the diplomatic sidelines; desert kingdom looks to build forest; and more!
A California attorney who represented Kamala Harris, a Massachusetts antifa rally speaker, and a New York Democrat walk into a bar in Green Bay, Wisconsin, to discuss how to increase turnout through absentee ballots in the upcoming November election and remove power from the Green Bay city clerk. No, this is not the start of some joke. Instead, these three key individuals ended up running the Green Bay election last fall (after the clerk was pushed out). They didnt meet up at some bar, but the fact that three coastal elites descended on the small city of Green Bay and took over parts of the election is very concerning. Open records reveal the Democrats corruption in stacking the deck in the Green Bay November election.

Green Bay was the last municipality in all of Wisconsin to report its election results in November. The former Brown County clerk said the election was tainted. A closer look at the players involved demonstrates why. At the center of it all was progressive Green Bay Mayor Eric Genrich, who brought in all three key individuals and worked other angles to legally stuff the ballot box with as many absentee ballots as possible. Genrich, a former Democrat state legislator, was an early Bernie Sanders backer in 2016 before becoming a DNC Hillary Clinton delegate. He ran for the non-partisan mayoral post and quickly politicized everything when he was elected. After purposefully creating long voting lines in Wisconsins spring presidential primary election in April 2020 by rejecting National Guard help to man the polls, Genrich set out to change historical precedent and the statutory requirement that the city clerk, not the mayor, run the elections. Former city clerk Kris Teske blew the whistle on the mayors office bringing in outside consultants. Genrich even had a secretive competition with other Wisconsin cities to see who could get the most absentee votes counted.

After five Green Bay citizens filed a complaint, the Genrich political operation sought to counter the narrative by releasing a report from the city attorney meant to absolve the mayor and his cronies of all of their wrongdoing. This report backfired and actually revealed how the mayors office operated in 2020 and their unprecedented takeover of an election. In trying to legitimize how the election was run, the report said the creation of an ad hoc election committee guided the major decisions. Well, who was on the hd hoc election committee? One person was Susan K. Smith, who public records show was deputy attorney general under Kamala Harris and represented her at least once in legal proceedings. Also on the committe was Celestine Jeffreys, who was Genrichs chief of staff (at the time) and is now the new city clerk.

Amaad Rivera-Wagner, Genrichs community liaison, was also involved in the administration of the election through coordinating staffing at Central Count on election day/night. He made sure he had his people in the right places to count the absentee ballots. One affidavit from a first-hand witness said "Rivera-Wagner made himself out to be 'in charge'" at Central Count. Open records reveal that Rivera-Wagner was in charge of coordinating election worker shifts, training the poll workers, and managing efforts at Central Count.

Even Mayor Genrich admitted that Rivera-Wagner offered logistical support at the Central Count processing of absentee ballots. At Central Count, many ballots were reconstructed under Rivera-Wagners watchful eye after the Center for Tech and Civic Life-funded machine cut absentee ballots. So who is Amaad Rivera-Wagner? In 2018, he ran for Massachusetts state Senate as a progressive Democrat, making Resist(ing) the Trump Administration one of his top priorities.

In 2017, Rivera-Wagner took a job for Massachusetts Democrat Senator Ed Markey because "he also wanted to be part of the fight against Trump."

He also organized Resist Trump rallies and spoke at an antifa rally. For his loyalty, the Green Bay mayor promoted Rivera-Wagner to become his new chief of staff.

Perhaps the biggest controversy surrounding the Green Bay election was how the "Zuckerbucks" and affiliated left-wing organizations ended up involved in election administration, showing how easy it was for private corporations to buy election access. A staffer from one affiliated group ended up with access to keys to the Central Count location, where the absentee ballots were counted. That staffer was Michael Spitzer-Rubenstein, a Bill de Blasio fan and former Alan Grayson staffer.

After Trump was elected in 2016, Spitzer-Rubenstein wrote that we must stand up and prevent Donald Trump from destroying America and detailed how Democrats must resist the president. He joined that effort by becoming state leader for the National Vote at Home Institute. Open records reveal that Spitzer-Rubenstein offered to help Green Bay "cure" ballots. Affidavits and state legislative hearing testimony detail his involvement and show that he had access to ballots at Central Count on election day/night. When a complaint was filed, Genrich finally had him removed from Central Count. But the damage had already been done.

These three coastal progressives were way too involved in Green Bay's election administration. A thorough investigation needs to be done to get the bottom of their involvement, and any wrongdoing should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. We must never let Democrats stack the deck like this again.
A woman dances on a street in the Old Town of Kashgar, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region. ZHAO GE/XINHUA

The Associated Press (AP) published an article on May 20 alleging that "Chinese authorities order video denials by Uyghurs of abuses". It purports to have evidence proving that this year's spree of Uyghurs condemning former secretary of state Mike Pompeo's separatist incitement was staged by the Chinese government. In actuality, however, the AP is denying Uyghurs the agency to independently defend their interests when they're attacked by powerful foreign forces such as the top US diplomat. This isn't just condescending, but it also carries ethnically prejudiced undertones implying that the Uyghurs are unable to do anything on their own.

As regularly implied by the Western mainstream media, every Uyghur by virtue of their ethnicity is supposedly yearning for separatism. According to this false narrative, it's only the Communist Party of China (CPC) that's preventing this scenario, and resorting to an alleged "genocide". None of that is true, however. The Uyghurs aren't victims of a 21st-century "genocide", but have actually recorded one of the highest population growth rates of any minority group anywhere in the world over the past decade. On top of that, their living standards have greatly improved, as has their security.

With these facts in mind, it's unsurprising that practically all Uyghurs in China very passionately support their country's unity. Any minority anywhere else in the world would be eager to sing their country's praises upon experiencing such unprecedented developmental blessings. The CPC didn't stage those videos of Uyghurs condemning Pompeo's separatist incitement since they were organically made as a natural show of support by these people for their government in the face of the foreign threat that he was trying to spread throughout their society.

All minorities should have the right to condemn fake news about them that's spread by foreign forces regardless of whether they're the top US diplomat or just some random blogger. The very fact that this can so freely happen in Chinese society, and in the Xinjiang Uyghur autonomous region where the West falsely alleges that a so-called "genocide" is presently being carried out there by the CPC, powerfully debunks the narratives that have been manufactured against the country. Western perception managers fear their people's response to these observations, hence the need to manufacture more fake news.

After all, those videos prove that the situation isn't anything like how they were indoctrinated to think that it is. The average Western media consumer wouldn't have ever expected anything of the sort to happen. It defies their completely false understanding of the situation there and might eventually inspire them to question the truthfulness of what they've been told by their mainstream media. This explains why that those same media forces have since desperately concocted a conspiracy theory alleging that the CPC staged those videos. They're hoping to play on people's prejudices of China in order to cover up their lies about Xinjiang.

The unexpected challenge that those Western perception managers face, however, is that their audience has recently become very passionate about minority rights as evidenced by recent events in the US over the past year. The average Westerner is very sensitive toward anything that can even remotely be interpreted as disrespectful of minorities, let alone ethnically prejudiced. With these concerns in mind, they might question why their mainstream media is denying the Uyghurs' agency to defend their interests from a foreign attack, especially from no less than former US president Trump's top diplomat who many of these Westerners despise.

The fact of the matter is that the Uyghurs are proud citizens of a cosmopolitan China where their rights aren't only respected, but even prioritized by the CPC for the simple fact that they're a minority. The reality is the exact opposite of whatever most Westerners have been indoctrinated into believing. Separatism isn't supported among that community. To the contrary, they despise this foreign threat and rightly acknowledge it as the greatest danger to their unprecedented development over the past decade. Those who support separatism aren't friends of the Uyghur people, but their enemies, and they deserve to be condemned.

Andrew Korybko is a Moscow-based American political analyst.

The opinions expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of China Daily and China Daily website.
Every year, some 1,000 civilians are killed by police in the United States, and with each passing year, the outrage grows. Radical voices call for defunding the police, while the Biden administration calls for greater federal oversight. Yet the true corrective can be found not in these solutions but in remembering the lessons of recent history  in particular, the remarkable transformation of policing that occurred in New York City.

In the early 1970s, New York City resembled most urban centers, with high crime rates and violent interactions between police and civilians. New York City police fatally shot about 60 people per year in the early 1970s, with the worst year being 1971, when 91 civilians were killed by officers of the NYPD. Improved training, explicit use-of-force policies, and tactical changes led to far greater police restraint, however, and by the 1980s, fatal police shootings had fallen to an average of about 25 per year. But the tide of violent crime was rising relentlessly.

Then came the policing revolution of the 1990s. Proactive policing, inspired by the broken windows theory and enhanced by CompStat, a computer-assisted approach that focused law enforcement resources on the highest crime areas, realized immediate results. The NYPD brass also put muscle behind the algorithms by giving precinct commanders greater discretion and demanding accountability from them. The result was that crime plummeted: New York became the safest large city in America.

Yet what this more proactive approach did not cause was more violent interactions between police and the public. On the contrary, a better-managed police force turned out to be a better-behaved police force. In the years from 2010 to 2020, there was an average of only about nine civilian deaths per year in police shootings in the city. If New Yorks results were extrapolated to the national numbers (which havent moved in four years), police-related fatalities nationwide would drop from 1,000 annually to 350.

Obviously, few police organizations, if any, can match the wealth of resources and training that New York possesses  which brings us to the final factor of leadership.

For all the NYPDs size and experience, the New York story on crime did not change for the better until a radical change occurred in leadership and philosophy  a change that was communicated clearly to the police force as well as to the public. It was a change that outsiders could see even more clearly than New Yorkers themselves, which is why they flocked to the city in record numbers.

The Biden administration is earnest in its efforts to create more effective and humane policing, but its top-down approach  especially its use of consent decrees  is likely to be process-driven, with limited results. Consent decrees require huge amounts of additional mandatory paperwork for police departments, large and small. This crowds out time for the intense local supervision that is necessary to alter the behavior of police officers on the street. The lawyers of the Justice Department Civil Rights Division and the experts whom they hire to oversee consent decrees often lack the day-to-day experience essential to understanding what is happening on the local level. While preventing the violation of citizens civil rights is essential, the central role of police is to reduce crime. The crime-fighting ideas that emerged in the NYPD in the 1990s CompStat, empowerment of precinct commanders, the intense focus on shootings and crime patterns -- all got submerged in the consent decree process.

The key factor is leadership that is embedded in the local community and that understands its own history and challenges. How to cultivate it? I propose a national law enforcement academy that would allow local police departments to send their most promising leadership candidates to New York to be embedded in the NYPD for six months to a year, not unlike U.S. Defense Department programs for foreign military officers. Only by immersing themselves in the day-to-day execution of proactive policing can law enforcement officials lead their own communities to a better place.

Police reform is necessary. The model for how it could work stands right in front of us.
92, passed away March 12, 2021. Visitation will take place Sunday, June 13, 2021 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home with a rosary at 5 p.m. A funeral Mass will take place on Monday, June 14, 2021 at 11 a.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church.
Greenville, NC (27833)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning followed by thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 79F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 65F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
Vaping devices are displayed at a store in New York in 2020.
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State Rep. Sara Coffey, D, serves the Windham-1 District. The opinions expressed by columnists do not necessarily reflect the views of the Brattleboro Reformer.
While her teacher Kevin Reilly holds her hand for support, Victoria Wollam, 15, of Buxton School in Williamstown receives her first dose of the vaccine during a clinic at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Parish Center in North Adams on Thursday.
On June 11th, 2021, Billie Jean Swanigan Bates, born on August 17th, 1938, received her God's reward and her spirit was guided to her new heavenly home from the Bowers Hospice House in Beckley, WV. All those that knew Billie will remember her Christian faith, her kindness, her compassion and
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Luke Feldhake, lifeguard at Historic Black Knight pool, skims debris of the water getting it ready to open this Saturday, May 29. Pool hours will be, 11 am to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday and closed Monday's. The New River Park pool will not open due to the lack of lifeguards.(Rick Barbero/The Register-Herald)
NEWTOWN  Scarlett Lewis cant miss the everyday signs of her son who was killed in the 2012 Sandy Hook shooting  from his school bus that passes her home to his unused playground alone in a field of buttercups.

The signs serve as a reminder of the harsh reality that what happened to Jesse continues to happen in our country, she says. Its 100 percent preventable if we have the courage to look at the problems and the issues in a different way, to see why suffering culminates in violence.

Lewis and the nonprofit she founded in her sons name to promote principles of love in schools is organizing a flurry of wellness events in June to celebrate what would have been Jesses 15th birthday.

The virtual June events range in topics from post-traumatic growth to a session called Playing with the Energy Ball, and follow the launch of three new programs at the Newtown-based Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement. The nonprofits free social and emotional learning curriculum is taught in 10,000 schools and 110 countries.

What amazes me is not just my team that keeps him alive but the educators and students who work to honor him, Lewis said on Monday during an interview from her home. Its amazing how alive Jesse is in them.

Lewis was last in the news in January, when actress Elisabeth Rohm confirmed she was starring in a television movie about Lewis, based on Lewis 2013 memoir, Nurturing Healing Love: A Mothers Journey of Hope and Forgiveness.

Lewis made national news in 2019 when New Hampshires governor adopted her social and emotional learning curriculum statewide, and in 2018 when she and her older son J.T. Lewis met with President Donald Trump during a roundtable discussion about school safety.

The June events include one-time sessions as well as offerings about wellness and self-care that run for multiple sessions. They conclude with a birthday show at 7 p.m. on June 30. Details are on the Choose Love website.

We are all connected in our want for love and our need to love, Lewis said. We also face challenges and have pain in our lives, so our month of fun events runs the gamut from challenges and healing and lessons to growth and joy.

The June events follow the launch of a new program called Choosing Love in Our Brave New World that reflects our current (pandemic) environment and addresses how students and educators can grow through the pandemic and be strengthened by it.

The nonprofit has also launched two other programs since the start of the year  a subscription-based series called How to SEL for parents and educators, and a professional development workshop for educators called Cultivating Authentic Relationships in our Education System, or CARES.

The feedback weve been getting in the field from our hero teachers is they have so much on their plates that there is still a need to get everybody on the same page to understand what social and emotional learning looks like in visualization, Lewis said of the subscription program. It walks people through what it looks like with taped session with students  everything from outbursts to not wanting to do homework.

rryser@newstimes.com 203-731-3342
WATERBURY  Police said on Wednesday they had seized two all-terrain vehicles - quads - from riders at Waterville Park.

We understand there is more work to be done and are working with the community to address this issue, Waterbury police said in a social media post that afternoon.

The move comes as cities throughout the region and state say theyre receiving complaints about riders illegally operating dirt bikes and ATVs on public streets.

It was not immediately clear from the post whether the riders of the two four-wheelers had been arrested or are facing other action by police.

Waterbury police said theyre asking the public to send them photos and videos of riders to help identify them.

Other cities have used city ordinances, hoping that fines for riders and the service station operators that sell them gas will keep them off the street. In Bridgeport, officers assigned to state police and FBI task forces are being used to target riders.

But some have argued a better approach would be to open a location for riders to go in order to keep quad and dirt bike riders off the street.

In Connecticut, street riders have to take a motorcycle safety course where they pass skills and knowledge tests before theyre able to receive a motorcycle endorsement on their license. Dirt bikes and quads dont have the same requirements, but the vehicles cant legally be ridden on the street.

The seizures in Waterbury came after Danbury police said they arrested two city men over the past weekend accused of popping wheelies.

Danbury police spokesman Det. Lt. Mark Williams said in an email that officers have been calling in reckless motor vehicle operators.

As we are prohibited from pursuing these violators, it is very difficult to identify operators, he said. All the same, we're trying to catch them, he said.
BOSTON (AP)  U.S. Sen. Mitt Romney faulted those on both extremes of the nations political divide Wednesday as he accepted the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award.

Romney was presented with the award in recognition of his decision to become the only Republican to split with his party and vote to convict former President Donald Trump during his first impeachment trial.

Many of us have been disappointed of late by the actions of some people whove chosen the easy way, playing to the crowd, itching the ears of the resentful with conspiracies and accusations, the Utah Republican said Wednesday. I take heart in the fact that such displays are still newsworthy and are generally met with disdain."

The domestic political squabbles are having a real impact, Romney said, by diverting the nations attention away from three great challenges facing the country: the rise of China, global climate change and the degradation of the national balance sheet.

Romney said theres plenty of blame to go around.

Some of us on the right infect the nation with claims of election fraud, tech and media outrages, even vaccine fantasies. From the left come hyperwoke accusations and antipathy toward free enterprise, the very means of our prosperity, the Utah Republican added.

Romney was given the award by Caroline Kennedy, the daughter of President Kennedy and the honorary president of the foundation, during a virtual ceremony.

Trumps first impeachment trial in 2020 focused on his relationship with Ukraine.

Romney became the first senator in U.S. history to vote to convict a president who belonged to their party. The former Massachusetts governor came under intense criticism and even received threats from some supporters of the former president.

After the Jan. 6 insurrection by Trumps supporters at the U.S. Capitol, Romney called on fellow Republican senators to acknowledge that Trump had lost the election.

At Trumps second impeachment trial, Romney was one of seven Republican senators who voted to convict the former president of inciting the attack.

Romney, 74, has a long history with the Kennedy family.

In 1994, Romney challenged U.S. Sen. Edward Kennedy for his seat and lost. Later, as governor, he worked with Kennedy to pass a landmark bill in Massachusetts that expanded access to health care.

President Kennedys book, Profiles in Courage, recounts the stories of eight U.S. senators who risked their careers by taking principled stands for unpopular positions. The award was created by the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation in 1989.

Previous winners have included Presidents Barack Obama, Gerald Ford and George H.W. Bush.
CHICAGO (AP)  The longtime chief of staff to former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan was indicted Wednesday for lying under oath to a federal grand jury investigating a bribery scheme involving Madigan and the state's largest electic utility, ComEd.

Timothy Mapes, 66, of Springfield, is charged with making false declarations before a grand jury and attempted obstruction of justice.

Mapes was one of Madigan's closest allies, serving beside the Chicago Democrat as clerk of the House and executive director of the Democratic Party of Illinois, which Madigan chaired. He abruptly quit all three posts in 2018 after a female staff member accused him of making lewd comments and brushing aside reports of harassment.

Mapes could not be immediately reached for comment on the new charges Wednesday. However, in an emailed statement his attorneys, Andrew Porter and Katie Hill, said Mapes testified truthfully in the grand jury.

The indictment handed up by a special grand jury in Chicago states Mapes was subpoenaed to testify before the grand jury on Feb. 12, and that he was granted immunity by prosecutors on March 24 to testify. Under the immunity agreement, no testimony or evidence Mapes provided could be used against him in a criminal case unless he committed perjury, gave a false statement or otherwise failed to comply with the immunity order.

Mapes testified before the grand jury on March 31, according to the indictment. Prosecutors wanted to question Mapes about dealings between Madigan and a consultant. Asked multiple times about the consultant acting on Madigan's behalf or carrying out work for the Chicago Democrat, Mapes denied knowledge of such a relationship.

In one exchange, Mapes was asked if he had reason to think the consultant was acting as an agent for Madigan, by doing work for him or carrying out assignments for him.

I'm not aware of any, Mapes replied, according to the indictment. Im not aware of that activity. Let's put it that way.

The indictment states Mapes made the statements even though he knew the consultant did work for Madigan and communicated messages on Madigan's behalf. It says Mapes himself sometimes acted an an intermediary between Madigan and the consultant.

Madigan was the longest-serving legislative leader in U.S. history before he resigned his seat in February amid the corruption probe. He served in the Illinois House for 50 years and was first elected speaker in 1983. He held the position for all but two years of his remaining time in office. He also served as chairman of the Democratic Party of Illinois, a post he also resigned in February.

Madigan was implicated in the bribery scheme involving Commonwealth Edison in July. ComEd admitted it secured jobs, often requiring little or no work, and contracts for his associates from 2011 to 2019 for favorable treatment in regulations. ComEd agreed in August to pay $200 million.

Madigan has not been charged in the probe, and he has described himself as the target of vicious attacks by people who sought to diminish my many achievements.

A spokeswoman for Madigan didnt immediately return a message Wednesday.

An independent investigation of harassment in Madigan's office found an atmosphere of bullying and intimidation and concluded Mapes had too much authority.

___

Associated Press reporters Sophia Tareen in Chicago and John O'Connor in Springfield contributed.
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP)  Workers from McDonald's restaurants at two Interstate 95 rest stops held a one-day strike Thursday to protest what they contend are attempts to stop them from unionizing and to demand hazard pay for working during the pandemic.

The small group of workers, from restaurants on I-95 in Darien and Branford, rallied at the state Capitol with members of Local 32BJ of the Service Employees International Union, which is helping their efforts to unionize.
WOLCOTT  A Waterbury resident faces charges including home invasion after an incident Tuesday morning, police said.

Jesse Munoz, 33,was also charged with unlawful discharge of a firearm, risk of injury to a minor, first-degree reckless endangerment, interference with an officer, assault of officer, first-degree criminal mischief and criminal possession of a firearm, police said.

Officers responded to a report of a burglary in progress around 7 a.m. at a home near the Tap & Barrel on Wolcott Road, police said.

When they arrived, the officers learned that a burglar, who kicked in the back door of the home, had just left, police said. Officers reported that the suspect had fired a gun before he fled. No injures were reported.

Detectives looked over surveillance video, and when they left a business around 1:30 p.m. that day, one of them saw a man on Wolcott Road who he was able to identify through the surveillance video as our suspect, police said.

The suspect tried to flee when he saw detectives, but his car was boxed in by unmarked police vehicles, the department said.

The suspect rammed the police cars in an attempt to escape, but was unsuccessful, according to police.

Back up came by, and that person, later identified as Munoz, was brought into custody, police said.

Munoz was held on $200,000 bond ahead of a hearing Wednesday in court.
The pandemic has taken a special toll on the states working women.

A new report based on data from October 2020 to February 2021 found that more than 68 percent of Connecticut women said their ability to work  or return to work  had been impaired by the COVID-19 pandemic. For working women with children at home, that number jumped to 83 percent.

Listed as factors affecting their work life was having children at home, lack of childcare, home-school responsibilities and other work around the home, according to the Permanent Commission on the Status of Women in Connecticuts report The Economic Impact of COVID-19 on Connecticuts Women.

Because mothers bear a disproportionate share of the home responsibilities, said Tina Courpas, the executive director of the PCSW, solving childcare is really something that would significantly help (working) women, both in their ability to do their double shift and to progress in their careers.

The information was discussed during a commission-held forum this week on COVID-19s impact on childcare and early education.

According to the report, almost a third of working women with young and school-aged children said they saw a $250 to $500 decrease in total monthly income during the pandemic; nearly 20 percent reported a drop of between $500 to $750 per month.

More than 20 percent said their ability to be promoted or progress in their careers was negatively impacted.

When asked what single factor would most support Connecticut womens economic security, the largest share of respondents in the report cited support for balancing work and childcare responsibilities.

We want to get this right and get parents the supports they need, said Commissioner Beth Bye of the Office of Early Education. COVID pulled the rug out from under parents in many ways, so they didnt have the supports they needed.

Among several statewide reforms in the works is a $50 million childcare set-aside for parents in workforce development.

A lot of people, their jobs went away  and we do have open jobs in Connecticut, so theres a need to retrain, said Bye. Weve always been one of the most punitive states when it comes to how can you qualify for (government-subsidized) childcare. This opens up to thousands of families the opportunity to access childcare while theyre doing workforce development.

Bye described the childcare set-aside initiative, which is supported by temporary federal dollars, as a trial run; state agencies can see its effect on household income, tax revenue and the needs of families if theyre gainfully employed.

If we see big impacts that bring in or save money other ways, thats something we can make the case to continue, she said.

Bye said she is seeking both family and early childhood staff input for insight.

One of the biggest things Im hoping happens right now is that parent voice and parent need drive system reform, she said. Lets build a system thats responsive to family need and is responsive to workforce need.

The Office of Early Childhood recently launched a parent-led advisory group which will take applications through the end of June.

Supporting parents also means improving access to  and the quality and sustainability of  Connecticuts web of private and public childcare options. Bye said that involves providing assistance to early care and education small businesses.

She cited a survey that showed 50 percent of childcare providers put business expenses on their personal credit cards or accounts to stay open during the pandemic. She said that if providers receive proper assistance with their bottom lines, they could increase the caliber of their programs.

Commissioner Vannessa Dorantes said the Department of Children and Families has also been laser-focused on supporting children by including families in that conversation.

We decided right from the beginning that the approach to keeping children safe is to support their families and to build on parental capacity, she said. For the most part, what weve learned is children and families are super resilient when given the resources to meet those basic needs.

During the pandemic, the Department of Children and Families set up a COVID-19 mailbox, where more than 27,000 unique individuals contacted the department, DCF reported.

That was people coming to us  unsolicited  from across the state just to get information, said Dorantes.

Through the mailbox, families could access information on childcare, housing, food insecurity and activities related to child and family well-being, Dorantes said.

As well as the families do, thats as well as the kids do, said Bye.

Absolutely, Dorantes said. As we look to recover from the pandemic, we look to make things better than they were before, as opposed to back to normal. Because normal wasnt good for everyone.
CW Field Day

IRTS CW Field Day takes place over the weekend of 5th and 6th of June. This contest is for portable stations and is on the CW contest preferred segments of the contest bands from Top Band to 10 metres. It runs for 24 hours from 1500 UTC on Saturday 5th June; there are 24 hour sections and a restricted 6 hour section.

The first weekend in June is when a number of IARU Region 1 societies would normally run CW Field Day contests and has always been a good opportunity for European CW operators test their skills in a portable environment.

The covid pandemic has affected field day and other contests over the past year and no IRTS field day events were held in 2020. Following improvements in the public health situation in recent months, we decided to proceed with our field day events this year, subject to restrictions and precautions that have been inserted into the contest rules.

We note that DARC, the German national society, has decided to cancel its CW Field Day this year; while it acknowledges the improved health situation, it is concerned that regulations or restrictions may not be uniform throughout the country. The RSGB CW Field Day contest is going ahead, so we can expect plenty of activity from UK portable stations.
BRIDGEPORT  When Bridgeport Board of Education member Jessica Martinez was charged this week in a campaign fund scheme, at least one of her fellow board members had prepared for that scenario.

The elections complaint that led to the charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud had been filed in June 2018. And, according to Chairman John Weldon, the school board became aware of the federal investigation at the start of last year.

The indictment... has minimal impact from an operational perspective, he said. Because this issue was still lingering, I purposely didnt appoint her to any committees so that, in the event of a development like this, the boards workings in that regard wouldnt be affected.

Martinez and State Sen. Dennis Bradley, for whom she served as campaign treasurer, turned themselves in Tuesday on charges they attempted to fraudulently obtain $179,850 in state campaign grants. Both pleaded not guilty. They are accused of trying to cover up the cost of a campaign event in 2018 and lying about political contributions received at the event in order to qualify for public campaign funds, according to the federal indictment.

Each was charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud. Martinez, 39, was also charged with false statements and false declaration to a grand jury. Martinez was released after posting $250,000 bond. She did not respond to requests for comment.

3 1 of 3 Brian A. Pounds / Hearst Connecticut Media Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Brian A. Pounds / Hearst Connecticut Media Show More Show Less 3 of 3





I do feel this development has brought a certain undue negative attention to the board, and its disappointing that Ms. Martinez didnt take steps to minimize that, said Weldon. However, the board will work to move past this and not allow it to overshadow all of the good and meaningful work that gets done every day in Bridgeport Public Schools.

Martinez, who has attended two of a total 17 virtual Teams meetings this year, none of which were regular board meetings, has had a rocky tenure on the school board.

She joined the board in 2017 and became its chair in December 2019.

Martinez, who was previously a paid lobbyist for a charter school organization, was removed as chairwoman in March 2020 because of the investigation, combined with other legal and personal issues, according to Weldon.

Board member Albert Benejan  who was one of three, including Martinez herself, to vote against removing her as chairwoman  said she has his support.

I dont know how she got involved, he said. She was a great leader: She got things done, she communicated with the staff and board members.

Benejan was adamant that the charges should not interfere with her position on the school board.

I will not accept either if someone tries to bring this into a meeting, he said. Shes a board member  thats separate from what happens in her life.

Martinezs four-year term wraps at the end of this year.

There is no mechanism for removing members, who are elected officials, from the school board itself unless they do so voluntarily or cease to be a city resident.

Weldon added the board could ask for her voluntary resignation, but said it would be inappropriate since she hasnt been proven guilty of the charges.

City Council member Maria Pereira, who previously served on the school board for several years, said its Martinezs prerogative.

Jessica should simply resign, she said.

Dasha Spell, who has previously run for the school board, said she feels for Martinez and her family but is concerned about how the charges will impact the reputation of the school board and greater Bridgeport.

As an elected official, all actions is a direct reflection on the community as a whole, she said. Bridgeport continues to receive a bad reputation due to elected officials that care about personal gain and not the community.

Spell is also a parent in the district.

I teach my child the difference between wrong and right, she said. But, however do we teach our kids that choices have consequences and in life being an elected official in Bridgeport doesnt give you a pass from being held accountable?

Mayor Joe Ganims office called the news surprising and said they learned of it from the media  though we are still not aware of details related to these charges, said Rowena White, communications director for the city of Bridgeport.

At this time, we support our Board of Education, the delegation, along with the Senate in any actions that may need to be taken in the best interest of the constituents they serve, she said in an email.

The arrest on Tuesday does not mark Martinezs first time facing criminal charges, although previous charges have since been dismissed.

Last school year, a fight with her then-boyfriend led both to be arrested. Claiming self-defense, Martinez completed a 20-week pretrial violence prevention program for battered and abused women.

The charges against her  attempted second-degree assault, first-degree reckless endangerment and violating previous conditions of release  were dismissed in January 2020. Bradley represented her in the case. Related motor vehicle charges were also dropped.

Martinez was put under investigation later that month in connection with the stabbing of her ex-boyfriend but was not arrested.

Around the same time period, she was also involved in an eviction case brought against her by her landlord, and an investigation by the State Elections Enforcement Commission for possibly voting in the wrong district that was put on hold because of the federal investigation.

That year, a photograph also emerged on social media that appeared to show Martinez with drug paraphernalia.

I did once dabble with marijuana, Martinez said at the time. I havent touched it in a long time and it wasnt something that I did on a regular basis. I am not on drugs.

Jury selection for the campaign fund scheme case was tentatively set for Aug. 2.

Staff writer Dan Tepfer contributed to this report.
The sweet-sounding voices of the St. John Paul the Great Academy childrens choir, singing Happy Anniversary the Rev. Emmanuel Ihemedu was a highlight of a party at Action Wildlife in Goshen.

The party was for Ihemedu, a native of Nigeria, celebrating his 15th anniversary as a priest.

But for the priest himself, and many who attended, the occasion was celebrating something more  the growth and stability that now holds sway over the church and the academy. When Ihemedu arrived in Torrington to lead St. John Paul the Great Parish three years ago, the academy was to close because of declining enrollment and financial difficulties. In fact, the paperwork had been drawn up  and all Ihemedu had to do was sign on the dotted line.

He refused, saying,If there are no children and no school. the parish has no future.

Some three years later, the academy, which had 81 children when Ihemedu arrived from a parish in Hartford. Enrollment today includes 144 children in Pre-K to eighth grade and the school has set a goal to reach 170 students and establishing a waiting list for enrollment.

Ihemedu said he has a strong belief in the importance of the power of education. His father is a retired school headmaster, and a few of his siblings are educators. He teaches in the counseling department at St. Josephs College in West Hartford, in addition to his duties at St. John Paul the Great Parish.

Jesus said, bring the children to me, said Ihemedu, as he hugged and shook hands with well wishers, part of a crowd of about 400 people. I felt if we bring the children to the Lord, He will provide us the resources to keep the school open.

The weekend party also celebrated the birthday of Father Carlos Zapata, a parochial vicar at St. John Paul the Great Parish who hails from Columbia, South America.

Ihemedu said he believes that the school not only benefits the parish in the long run, but also the city of Torrington and surrounding towns. If a town does not educate its children the town has no future. We are the only parochial school in Litchfield County and what a draw we are for people thinking of relocating here. For families to have the option of sending their children to a local parochial school is very important to the future growth of the city.

Ihemedu said he was impressed by the outpouring of affection and respect shown him at the event. Several of his friends attended, as well as former parishioners from churches he previously served in Hartford and New Haven, along with his own Torrington flock.

Really, everything I have achieved is by Gods grace, Ihemedu said. Im happy to have made a difference in peoples lives, but that is all through God. I believe we have a strong parish that continues to get stronger. I believe our parishioners are resilient and their faith is strong.

The event was also a fundraiser for the academy. As chairman of the school board Susan Cook explained, the school enjoyed its first year of fiscal self-sufficiency this year.

It was the first year that our operation wasnt completely funded by the parish, she said. This event will hopefully raise money for the academy so we can continue to grow and be self-sufficient. We would love to fill the school to capacity, which would be around 220 students. Father Emmanuel has been such a driving force in the growth of the Academy.

Jack Sheedy, who does public relations for the parish, called Ihemedu a great person.

He is self-deprecating and his sermons are touching and interesting, he said. He will often quote a passage from the Gospel, sometimes break into song, and tell anecdotes about real life that captures the parish.

Leslie DiVeneri, who works in the parish office, said Ihemedu is wonderful to work for and with. I drive all the way from Bristol to work one day a week at the parish.

James Gerardi of New Hartford attended the event along with his mother, Anna Gerardi.

Father is very personable and he has made a big difference in the parish, trying to bring the people from the various parishes together, he said.

The parish of St. John Paul the Great includes parishioners from St. Peter, St. Mary, St. Francis and Sacred Heart churches in Torrington; St. Marys and Sacred Heart closed because of declining attendance and financial difficulties. Masses are said at St. Francis and St. Peter Churches.

The event was free when an anonymous benefactor stepped in the week before and picked up the tab for the entire gala, Cook said. Everything here (food, refreshments, a DJ, cakes, balloons, banners) didnt cost us a penny. It was wonderful act of kindness.

During the party, the childrens small voices, led by the academys music teacher, filled the air. There were smiles all around, but none were bigger than on the face of Ihemedu, watching children sing to him.
WINSTED  As Anthony Serio prepares to retire as superintendent of The Gilbert School, he is finishing his to do list  including establishing a union for administrators.

The Gilbert Administrators Association officially was recognized by the Gilbert School Corp. May 19, including a three-year contract. The tiny union has three members: union spokeswoman and high school Principal Debra Lewis, middle school Principal Maura Hurley and Student Services Director Julie McDougal. The agreement includes pay increases through 2024, starting with 4 percent for 2021-22, and 2.9 percent in 2022-23 and 2023-24.

Lewis said Gilbert School Corp. was very supportive during the negotiations.

(Chairman) Steve Selak and Tony (Serio) were just great, she said. We have such a great partnership here at Gilbert, and this will strengthen it.

Their approval spoke volumes, she said.

The GAA is part of the CT Federation of School Administrators and the American Federation of School Administrators, according to Serio. Gilberts two administrators will work with the head of school, Greg Shugrue, who begins his job July 1.

Sue Sojka, who is retiring June 30 along with Serio, has been head principal for the last 10 years. Shugrue, as head of school at Gilbert, will work with Lewis and Hurley. His title is different than Serios, who was superintendent and administrator of the schools international student program. That post is being handled by another administrator.

Serio said these upcoming changes in administration prompted the administrative staff to establish their own union.

Its based on their wanting to make sure they have certain rights provided to them, because theyre losing Sue and I at the same time, Serio said. Theyre basically protecting themselves. They are making sure they have their compensation and benefits spelled out for the next three years.

Lewis, who has been at the Gilbert School for decades, said losing Sojka and Serio at the same time raised concerns about the future.

Ive been here for 21 years, and with the budget woes in Winsted sometimes, it can be challenging, Lewis said. The town has been super-supportive, but it can be tough, sometimes, to get what you feel youre entitled to. So we thought this would just solidify it and we wont have to worry about it as much. We wont have to prove we deserve it every year. ... We feel like our future is stabilized for now.

Serio said the 4 percent pay increase is a response to 2019, when salaries were frozen. In addition to the raises, the three administrators are getting vacation time, and a 403(b) account, which replaces their 401(k). Now, with the 403(b), that acts as another benefit for them, Serio said. They can contribute, and the school district can contribute. We wanted to make sure these things are in place, and remain in place.

The Gilbert School Corp. will negotiate a new contract in 2023.
Connecticut legislators on Wednesday moved closer to making amends with a Hartford woman who helped in the identification, arrest and conviction of a man nearly 70 years ago, when she was a teenager who had been assaulted by him.

The House of Representatives voted unanimously in favor of a bill that finally issues a $3,000 reward that had been denied to the woman, who is now in her 80s and known by the pseudonym Patricia Pidgie DAllessio. It's a name used to protect her anonymity in a book describing the crimes in the southwestern section of the city in 1953.

Its hard to believe that we sometimes have the ability to redress injustices of the past, but this is a case where we have an opportunity to grant a small measure of justice to an individual, said Rep. Edwin Vargas, D-Hartford.

As a teen, the woman was grabbed from behind while walking along a Hartford street, forced into a backyard and sexually assaulted on a rainy night in 1953, according to the Hartford Courant. Vargas said the woman and her parents reported the assault to the Hartford Police Department but it was not taken seriously, even though there was evidence the man tried to strangle her with a scarf.

Despite the red markings on her neck, the police discounted it as perhaps some boyfriends hickies, Vargas said. She was not taken seriously. The police moved on.

Weeks later, an 11-year-old girl named Irene Fiederowicz was raped and strangled to death about a mile away, leading police to believe there was a serial rapist in the community. They returned to the teen known as Pidgie" for help and she ultimately identified the man, Robert Nelson Malm, from a police lineup and testified against him in court.

There was a $3,000 reward that had been posted by Governor (John Davis) Lodge at that time. Unfortunately, she was told that she had done her civic duty and that should be enough of a reward, Vargas said. Back then, $3,000 could have made the difference for Pidgie to have gone to college and have received a college education."

Despite the suggestion from some lawmakers on Wednesday to provide the woman with interest on that reward money, Vargas said it's the symbolic gesture that her family wanted.

The bill now awaits action in the Senate.
PORT CARBON  An Ashland man was charged with attempted murder and other offenses Wednesday afternoon for allegedly shooting a woman at a home.

State police at Schuylkill Haven said Cynthia Salvador-Branch tried to leave the area of 325 Coal St., and Curtis L. Branch, 38, shot her in the neck.

After being shot, the woman drove herself to the Port Carbon Police Station at 301 First St. and walked inside to get help.

She was treated by Schuylkill EMS personnel and then flown to a trauma center by helicopter for additional treatment.

Curtis Branch, 416 Centre St., Third Floor, was charged with attempted murder of the third degree, attempted murder of the first-degree, aggravated assault, recklessly endangering another person, simple assault, harassment, possessing instruments of crime and possession of a firearm prohibited.

Police from surrounding communities rushed to Port Carbon to assist and were able to take the alleged shooter into custody a short time later without further incident.

Police blocked off a section of First Street in the area of borough hall and the police station while they conducted their investigation and examined the vehicle the woman drove to get there.

Yellow crime scene tape was wrapped around telephone poles and then stretched across the road keeping curious onlookers from getting too close.

Magisterial District Judge David A. Plachko, Port Carbon, was arraigning Curtis Branch as of press time Wednesday night. It was expected to be committed to Schuylkill County Prison.
SCHUYLKILL HAVEN  Police said an 18-month-old boy was accidentally shot with a Taser on Tuesday night as the childs father fought with officers.

Schuylkill Haven police Patrolman Kenneth Jacoby charged Joshua King, 35, of 619 N. Garfield Ave., who police said was tased five times before he was subdued.

At some point during a scuffle in the mans bedroom while King held the boy, the child was struck in the upper left leg by the two darts from a Taser shot. He was evaluated by Schuylkill EMS, taken to an area hospital for further evaluation and later released, police said.

Jacoby said the incident unfolded around 9:44 p.m. at the mans home, which is divided into apartments, one occupied by King and the other by his parents, who have custody of the child. Jacoby said Kings father, Russell King, reported his son had been in an upstairs part of the home with the boy and barged into his parents home saying his son was hungry.

Jacoby said the family called the police. He said Joshua King is familiar to the department and he may have been in an angry or threatening state when he approached his father.

Assisted by police from Orwigsburg and Penn State Schuylkill, Jacoby said he went to the upstairs apartment with his Taser drawn. He said Joshua King walked out, saw officers and the Taser, went back inside and refused to let police enter. Jacoby said he forced entry and found the man had taken his son to another room and was holding the child.

Police said Joshua King began to fight with officers while still holding the child. Jacoby said that when officers tried to take the boy away, Joshua King pushed them and tried to kick them. Orwigsburg police Patrolman Brandon Bayer shot Joshua King with his Taser but the man pulled out the darts and continued to fight more aggressively. Officers were able to get the child away from him.

Joshua King continued to fight and was shot with a Taser a second time, but also pulled the darts out and ran down the stairs and out of the house, police said.

It was during the scuffle in the bedroom that the boy was shot.

Joshua King ran to a neighboring house and still refused to obey commands, so police shot him a third time with a Taser. He again pulled out the darts and went through a small opening between two buildings. He was found lying in a yard in the area of Skook Auto Sales.

King got up and attempted to run into another house and was shot a fourth time by Penn State Police Officer Nicholas Windell, but again pulled out the darts and fled.

Jacoby said officers caught up with King but he entered an unlocked vehicle, threw a full tool box at them, jumped in the drivers seat and locked the doors. Bayer smashed out the drivers side window of the vehicle, but King exited through the passengers side, where Windell tased him and he was finally subdued.

King is charged with three felony counts of aggravated assault; one felony count each of burglary, criminal trespass and endangering the welfare of children; three misdemeanor counts of simple assault; four misdemeanor counts of recklessly endangering another person; two misdemeanor counts of criminal mischief; and one misdemeanor count of resisting arrest.

He was arraigned by on-call Magisterial District Judge David A. Plachko and committed to Schuylkill County Prison unable to post $50,000 straight cash bail.
MAHANOY CITY  Morris Drug Store and volunteers with the Medical Reserve Corps delivered COVID-19 vaccines Wednesday to homebound residents in the county.

Karen Flynn, pharmacist at Morris Drug Store, partnered with the Office of Senior Services, which has been keeping a list of elderly and homebound residents in need of the vaccine. They then contacted the Medical Reserve Corps to make the deliveries.

For people who are truly homebound, they are the most vulnerable and in need of the vaccine, Flynn said. Its time consuming. You lose money going out, but somebody has to do it.

Eleven people received vaccines Wednesday, with 15 more scheduled for Thursday.

Volunteers from the Medical Reserve Corps picked up supplies from Morris Drug Store, including the vaccine doses kept in a cooler and vaccination record cards. They were also instructed to wait with the patients for 15 minutes after inoculation. The second doses will be distributed in the same way.

Joseph Santey, of Jenkins Township, a volunteer with the Medical Reserve Corps and the Pennsylvania South Central Task Force, said he wanted to contribute to the mission of bringing vaccines to homebound individuals.

Its a great way to help the community and work with other volunteers, Santey said.

Cheryl Hale, RN, a Medical Reserve Corps volunteer from Carlisle, said many of the volunteers are retired health professionals who are happy for the chance to help end the pandemic.

For a year now, weve been sitting on the sidelines, Hale said. Its a relief for us to be able to help get back to normal.

Flynn said during the pandemic she decided to take a course to have the pharmacy become licensed to offer vaccines, including shingles, flu, pneumonia and others along with the COVID-19 vaccine.

With the pandemic, I felt I had a social and moral obligation, Flynn said.

In April, Flynn said she reached out to the Mahanoy City Senior Community Center, right across the street, to see if anyone there still needed to get vaccinated.

They were thrilled, Flynn said. They contacted everyone, but other places would only do it for big groups, and they had less than 20 at that point.

Flynn said she vaccinated 14 people at the senior center. She then personally delivered 10 vaccines to homebound individuals in Mahanoy City, Frackville, Ashland and Girardville.

Its really rewarding, Flynn said. Once I did the first person, I said, Im in. 

Flynn said she wished the pharmacy could have become a vaccine provider sooner to help educate the community and dispel any myths about it.

We all have to work together to get to herd immunity and do our part to protect the whole, Flynn said. We are far better now than we were without the vaccine.

County data

As of Wednesday, the county has had a total of 14,675 cases and 406 deaths, with 15 new cases reported. Two new deaths were reported Tuesday.

During the previous two weeks, the county had an average of 20 cases per day, with six total deaths. The average number of daily cases dropped from 42 in April. In May 2020, the average daily cases was around eight.

For the week ending May 21, the county was down to a moderate level of community transmission.

As of Wednesday, 16,426 people in the county were partially vaccinated, and 53,490 were fully vaccinated.

As of May 21, according to data from the Schuylkill County Emergency Management Agency, 40.3% of the countys eligible population had been fully vaccinated, and 53.4% had at least one dose.

By age group, 9.3% of ages 15-19 were fully vaccinated by May 21; 21.6% of ages 20-29; 29.1% of ages 30-39; 34.5% of ages 40-49; 43.1% of ages 50-59; 64.5% of ages 60-69; 78.5% of ages 70-79; and 65.9% of ages 80 and older. For ages 10-14, 4% were partially vaccinated.
100 years ago  1921

Deeds recorded:

Elizabeth Hoover to James Williams, Shenandoah; $1.

A.J. Schwalm to Nathan Steeley, of Hubley Township, $6,500.

75 years ago  1946

More than 50 organizations, including over 2,000 veterans of World War II, will be in line at 3 oclock Thursday afternoon when the gigantic parade that will be the main feature of Pottsvilles Homecoming celebration is scheduled to begin.

50 years ago  1971

The Delaware River Basin Commission has deferred action on the development of water supplies for the Lake Wynonah project in Wayne and South Manheim townships. The commission held a meeting Thursday at Trenton, New Jersey.

25 years ago  1996

FOUNTAIN SPRINGS  Its going to feel kind of empty here. So spoke junior Joseph M. Brutto, Frackville, after an afternoon of bidding farewell to the nuns who have served Cardinal Brennan High School for almost 70 years. And 30 of the 81 Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM), some who taught at Cardinal Brennan as long as 1934, were back Saturday to say their goodbyes. Some 250 students and alumni gathered in the fieldhouse where a cast of 50 lightheartedly recounted high points of the nuns tenure, including an Academy Awards segment that includes such categories as Best Articulation.
Pennsylvanias legion of state government lobbyists and other special pleaders have saved themselves some money during the pandemic.

Since state lawmakers, like everyone else, couldnt go anywhere as COVID-19 spread havoc, there was no need for the pay-for-access crowd to fund legislators travel, lodging and affiliated recreation.

And, since legislators spent less time in Harrisburg, the influence-seekers didnt have to feed them.

Financial interest filings with the state Ethics Commission show that few of the 203 representatives and 50 senators reported so-called gifts over the past year.

In a legislature committed to transparency, accountability and serving the public, the annual sum of gifts to legislators would be zero, because such gifts would not be allowed.

But Pennsylvania legislators allow themselves to be greased in any amount. They simply must disclose any gift worth more than $250 or transportation and hospitality worth more than $650. And when many of them technically report receiving gifts, usually from entities with direct interests in legislative business, they do so in ways that require a Rosetta stone to unravel.

One of the telling signs that state lawmakers allowing themselves to be greased is bad public policy, is that even they never make a positive case for the practice. Usually, they simply ignore the bills that appear every session to end it.

As reported by the Capitol news organization Spotlight PA, the good-government advocacy group March on Harrisburg plans to pressure Republican Senate President Pro Tempore Jake Corman to bring a gift ban to a vote. But Corman, freshly returned from a state bar association-funded junket to Bermuda, has not committed to the reform.

No one other than special pleaders and their beneficiaries inside the Capitol bubble thinks that legally greasing elected legislators, who are among the most lavishly compensated state lawmakers in America, is a good idea in the public interest.

Gov. Tom Wolf banned gifts of any kind on the administrative side immediately upon taking office in 2015. That is the only appropriate standard. Corman and House Speaker Kerry Benninghoff should move the gift ban, and the vote for it should be unanimous in both houses.
Algiers, 26 May 2021 (SPS) - African peoples and the whole world commemorate "World Africa Day" on Tuesday, coinciding with the anniversary of the establishment of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) (African Union currently) in very exceptional circumstances marked by a new dynamic and the great impetus which benefited the Sahrawi cause, the last colony in Africa.

Each year, the topics discussed during this event shed light on the efforts of African countries aimed at achieving the strategic objectives of the African Union (AU), namely decolonization, the settlement of armed conflicts and the preservation of the peace.

This World Africa Day cannot be celebrated without mentioning the situation in Western Sahara, a founding state and an active member of the AU, whose territories are being violated by a neighboring African state which, by signing the constitutive act of the AU, had undertaken to respect the sovereignty and the borders of its States, but it did not respect its commitments. SPS

125/090/TRA
Across America, COVID-19 cases are down, vaccination rates are up, yet jobs remain open and the economy stagnant.

With the pandemic all but behind us, business owners should have reason for optimism, but liberal policies pushed by the Biden administration and its progressive allies in Congress have many proceeding with caution. This moment calls for the pro-growth agenda that cultivated the best economy in a generation before the pandemic, not the pro-government agenda that grows our debt and diminishes American competitiveness.

Before the pandemic, businesses were expanding, jobs opportunities were plentiful and wages were growing fastest for the lowest earners. This is due, in large part, to an agenda that empowered innovators and entrepreneurs. The U.S. became a net energy exporter, new factories opened and new businesses opened on Main Street. After a harrowing year, I believe that this economy can be ours again if we make the right decisions to empower growth.

The Biden agenda, however, threatens to suppress the benefits of growth. Despite assurances that tax hikes only impact the wealthiest individuals and the largest corporations, common sense tells us otherwise. Studies show that 70% of the burden of corporate taxes falls on workers, meaning fewer new jobs, stagnant wages and higher prices. The only jobs more taxes create are at the IRS. As Pennsylvanias revenue secretary, I focused on creating more taxpayers by creating jobs, not creating more taxes as the Biden administration and Gov. Tom Wolf propose.

Their spend-and-tax plans fail to leverage our strengths. In fact, a recent analysis by the Penn Wharton Budget Model projects that the negative impact of the enormous debt from Bidens plans would outweigh their benefits and would actually decrease GDP.

In Pennsylvania, policies like this are why we have fallen to Bottom 10 status among U.S. states, and the same economic gravity will erase American competitiveness. The Biden administrations climate goals would shutter Pennsylvania energy production, destroying thousands of jobs. Just recently, U.S. Steel cancelled a planned expansion in Mon Valley anticipating new green mandates.

This policy ignores that Pennsylvania natural gas has helped the U.S. become the only industrialized nation to reduce emissions and exceed the goals set in President Barack Obamas Clean Power Plan and the Paris Accords. In spite of this, Gov. Wolf insists that our state should surrender a key industry and join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, which independent analysis says will not reduce emissions but will export jobs to Ohio and West Virginia.

America is truly the land of opportunity, but the Biden administration has demonstrated that if you create opportunity, they will tax it. The last year demonstrated the unparalleled resolve of the American people: healthcare workers combated the virus, families supported one another and struggling community businesses, and American innovation delivered safe and effective vaccines in record time. This can be a Great American Decade if we leverage these strengths effectively. To do this we must grow opportunity, not government.

(Meuser represents the 9th Congressional District of Pennsylvania)
I am sick and tired of hearing people complaining about the unemployment benefits. At least those that are receiving them held a job and paid into unemployment. They are entitled to it. Also, check out the price of health care insurance premiums. They are at least $1,000 a month with high deductibles and co-insurances. Why dont you people complain about the young people on the welfare system? They are the ones taking advantage.

Orwigsburg



To all our congressmen and senators, isnt there any way you can slow down President Biden? On voting day, we have what they call term limitations. Thats all you need to know. Term limitations, voting day.

Ashland



I am calling about the 200 block of West Columbus Street in Shenandoah. It might be an alley, but people pay taxes here and would like the huge holes in the road fixed. I have called many times and havent gotten any results. Please, fix this problem, borough council.

Shenandoah



The vaccine is only approved for emergency use. Nobody knows if it is safe or not long-term.

Pottsville



I have a really good idea. Since Schuylkill County is getting millions of dollars from the COVID stimulus package, I would like the three commissioners to vote to use it to help old people fix up their houses. Instead they are looking to spend it in every other way. Come on, commissioners, help the old people fix their houses.

Girardville



To the person from Pottsville who claims that the Democrats dont want to defund the police, turn off CNN and listen to the members of the Squad. Also, some Democrat cities did defund their police and are now paying the price with high crime. Get your facts straight.

Pottsville



I see in the paper where they are trying to do away with masks in different places for people who are vaccinated. The question is, how do you know they were vaccinated? I could come into your store and say, oh yeah, I had the shots. How do you know?

New Philadelphia



A congressman has called Jan. 6 a tour of the Capitol and no one finds that objectionable? Shame on you, Miss Coulter, and all you conservatives.

Mahanoy City



Nancy Pelosi is going to fine anybody who enters the House of Representatives without a mask, even if they are fully vaccinated. I guess the CDC doesnt have much say in it. Maybe Joe Biden should put his mask back on because he took his mask off and we all found out what a fool he really is.

Frackville



Hey, Minersville, Joe Biden does not control gas prices. That is correct. However, Joe Biden and his administrations idiotic polices do affect gas prices. Try to use some common sense.

Minersville



To the person from Minersville: You are correct that President Biden or any president has no direct control over the price of gas. He cant control how the gas prices go up and down, but by his actions he caused the prices to go up.

Tremont



Not long ago, I read where the City of Pottsville hired a third code enforcement person. The city should have hired a health officer. It is so obvious one is really needed. Just ride around town and look at all the garbage cans stored on sidewalks, most without lids, weeds, high grass, sofas and chairs on porches, dog dirt on sidewalks. All these issues are the responsibility of the health department, according to the city code.

Pottsville



When Pennsylvania oils and chips a road, our governor should send me a check for vehicle repairs. Maybe if he doesnt, the guy in Washington could send me some money. He is sending money to everybody else.

Locust Valley
Pithoragarh, May 27 (PTI) A tribal organisation of people living near the Nepal and China borders here has come forward to distribute Covid medical kits among villagers.

The medical kit includes a digital thermometer, thermal fever scanner, pulse oximetre, PPE kit, surgical mask, gloves, hand sanitiser and essential medicines.

"We have distributed coronavirus medical kits among over 500 residents of 43 villages of Darma, Vyas and Chaudans valleys of Dharchula suddivision and three Rang tribal villages of Munsiyari," said Ashok Nabiyal, an office-bearers of the Rang Kalyan Sanstha.

According to Nabiyal, it has become essential to distribute Covid kits among villagers as people returned to their ancestral villages near the borders.

"Our volunteers trekked up to 12 km to reach these villages," said Nabiyal.

According to the Dharchula administration, it is going to hold a Covid testing camp in Vyas Valley on Saturday. PTI CORR ALM RDK RDK

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
Indian Army has invited applications from unmarried male, female and widows of defence personnel for the recruitment of 191 Short Service Commission Officers posts. The Indian Army registration link is now live on the official website of Join Indian Army - joinindianarmy.nic.in. Eligible candidates have until June 23 to apply for the post. Here are more details about the Indian Army recruitment drive.

Join Indian Army 2021

Indian Army Vacancy Details

Men 175 Women 14 Widow 02

Indian Army Recruitment: Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

Candidates who have passed the requisite Engineering Degree course or are in the final year of the Engineering Degree course are eligible to apply. Candidates studying in the final year of the Engineering degree course should be able to submit proof of passing the degree examination along with mark sheets of all semesters/years by October 1, 2021. Furthermore, they should be able to produce the Engg Degree Certificate within 12 weeks from the date of commencement of training at Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Such candidates will be inducted on Additional Bond Basis to recover the cost of training at Officers Training Academy (OTA) as notified from time to time and stipend and pay & allowances paid, in case they fail to produce the requisite degree certificate.

Nationality

A candidate must either be - (i) a citizen of India, (ii) a subject of Nepal, (iii) a person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka and East African countries of Kenya, Uganda, United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire and Ethiopia and Vietnam with the intention of permanently settling in India, provided that a candidate belonging to categories (ii) and (iii) above shall be a person in whose favour a certificate of eligibility has been issued by Government of India. Certificate of eligibility will however not be necessary in the case of candidates who are Gorkha subjects of Nepal. A candidate in whose case a certificate of eligibility is necessary will attach such certificate along with the application.

Age Limit

For SSC(Tech)- 57 Men and SSCW(Tech)- 28 Women. 20 to 27 years as on October 1, 2021 (Candidates born between October 2, 1994, and October 1, 2001, both days inclusive).

For widows of Defence Personnel who Died in Harness Only. SSCW (Non-Tech) [Non-UPSC] and SSCW(Tech) - A maximum of 35 years of age as of October 1, 2021.

Indian Army Registration: How to apply?

Applications will only be accepted online on the website www.joinindianarmy.nic.in. Click on Officer Entry Apply/Login and then click Registration (Registration is not required if already registered on www.joinindianarmy.nic.in).

After getting registered, click on Apply Online under Dashboard. A page Officers Selection  Eligibility will open.

Then click Apply shown against Short Service Commission Technical Course to open the application form.

Read the instructions carefully and click Continue to fill details as required under various segments - Personal information, Communication details, Education details and details of previous SSB. Save & Continue each time before you go to the next segment.

After filling in details on the last segment, you will move to a page Summary of your information wherein you can check and edit the entries already made. Only after ascertaining the correctness of all your details, click on Submit.

Please note that candidates are required to click on Submit each time they open the application for editing any details. The candidates are required to take out two copies of their application having Roll Number, 30 minutes after final closure of online application on last day.

IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK
United Nations, May 27 (PTI) Three Indian peacekeepers, who laid down their lives while serving in UN peacekeeping missions last year, are among 129 military, police and civilian personnel honoured on Thursday with a prestigious UN medal awarded posthumously for courage and sacrifice in the line of duty.

Corporal Yuvraj Singh who served with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and two civilian peacekeepers -- Ivan Michael Picardo, who served with UNMISS, and Mulchand Yadav, who worked for the UN Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI) -- were honoured posthumously with the Dag Hammarskjold Medal during a sombre virtual ceremony here on the occasion of the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers.

India is the 5th largest contributor of uniformed personnel to UN peacekeeping with more than 5,500 military and police serving in peace operations in Abyei, Cyprus, Congo, Lebanon, the Middle East, Somalia, South Sudan and the Western Sahara, according to the UN.

"On the occasion of the UN International Day of peacekeepers, I salute the men and women who serve in UN peacekeeping missions in foreign lands to preserve international peace and security," India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti said.

The International Day of UN Peacekeepers is observed annually on May 29 to pay tribute to the uniformed and civilian personnel for their invaluable contribution to the work of the world organisation and to honour the more than 4,000 peacekeepers who have lost their lives serving under the UN flag since 1948.

Earlier in the day, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres laid a wreath to pay tribute to the fallen UN peacekeepers and presided over the virtual ceremony at which the Dag Hammarskjold Medal was awarded posthumously to the peacekeepers who lost their life serving under the UN flag last year and in the first month of this year.

The theme for this years observance is The road to a lasting peace: Leveraging the power of youth for peace and security.

Tens of thousands of young peacekeepers aged between 18 and 29 years deployed around the world play a key role in helping UN missions implement their mandated activities, with the active participation of young people from host communities, the UN said.

The challenges and threats faced by our peacekeepers are immense. They work hard every day to protect some of the worlds most vulnerable, while facing the dual threats of violence and a global pandemic, Guterres said during the virtual ceremony.

The UN chief said despite COVID-19, across all UN missions, peacekeepers have not only been adapting to continue to deliver their core tasks, they are also assisting national and community efforts to fight the virus.

I am proud of the work they have done, he said, adding that the fallen UN peacekeepers  uniformed and civilian  lost their lives due to malicious acts, in accidents and as a result of illness, including COVID-19.

The fallen peacekeepers came from 44 different countries and diverse backgrounds but were united by a common purpose: to serve our great Organisation, promote peace and security and improve the lives of some of the worlds most vulnerable people. We are forever in their debt, Guterres said.

The Secretary-General also awarded the 2020 Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award to Major Steplyne Buyaki Nyaboga, a Kenyan military officer who served with the African Union  United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur, (UNAMID).

Created in 2016, the Award recognises the dedication and effort of an individual peacekeeper in promoting the principles of UN Security Resolution 1325 on women, peace and security. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, saluted the dedication and bravery of UN peacekeepers, who serve and perform admirably in challenging environments only compounded by the ongoing pandemic.

I also honour our young peacekeepers who bring energy and innovation, and serve as role models to youth populations working tirelessly to ensure meaningful representation and participation in political processes, he said.

Lacroix said UN peacekeepers deserve "our full support" and we must continue to work together to do all we can to improve their safety and security and give them the tools to succeed.

The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers was established by the General Assembly in 2002, to pay tribute to all men and women serving in peacekeeping, and to honour the memory of those who have lost their lives in the cause of peace.

The General Assembly designated May 29 as the International Day of UN Peacekeepers in commemoration of the day in 1948 when the UNs first peacekeeping mission, the UN Truce Supervision Organisation (UNTSO), began operations in Palestine. Since then, more than one million women and men have served in 72 UN peacekeeping operations, directly impacting millions of people, and saving countless lives. Today, UN Peacekeeping deploys more than 89,000 military, police and civilian personnel in 12 operations. PTI YAS SCY SCY SCY

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
A day after fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi was found after a three-day search in Dominica, sources have informed that the Indian government is in touch with both Antigua & Barbuda and the Dominican government over the matter. This comes after the Prime Minister of Antigua & Barbuda, Gaston Browne, told Republic that he had asked Dominica to deport Choksi directly back to India as a persona-non-grata.

Mehul Choksi to be deported to India directly?

It is pertinent to point out that Antigua & Barbadua PM Gaston Browne told Republic TV exclusively on Wednesday that he had directed Dominica to make Mehul Choksi persona non grata and have him deported directly to India. The phrase persona non grata means "an unwelcome person" and refers to a foreign person whose entering or staying in a certain country is prohibited by the authorities. The Antigua-based fugitive, who had been absconding since Sunday, was held by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Dominica three days later, as per The Observer. Dominica is a small island nation in the Caribbean Sea.

We have asked the Dominican Government to detain him for entering their country illegally, to make him persona non grata and have him deported directly to India, Antigua PM Gastron Browne had said.

Earlier on Tuesday, a police officer from Johnson Point police station (the precinct near where Choksi has a home) told Republic TV that a missing complaint had been filed by his family. Speaking exclusively to Republic TV's Executive Editor Niranjan Narayanaswamy, an officer from the Johnson Point Police Station said that the statement of Mehul Choksi's wife had been recorded after she lodged the missing persons complaint and that there were no details of whether the fugitive diamond merchant had fled to Cuba. Noting that precise information about Mehul Choksi was still unknown to the Police, the Antiguan cop told Republic that his car was spotted in the Jolly Harbour area at a distance from his residence. He was later found to have been apprehended by the Criminal Investigation Department.

Mehul Choksi faces the prospect of extradition

Mehul Choksi is under the scanner of both the Central Bureau of Investigation and the Enforcement Directorate. Along with his nephew Nirav Modi, he allegedly siphoned off Rs 13,500 crore of public money from the Punjab National Bank (PNB), using letters of undertaking. Owner of the Gitanjali group, a retail jewellery company, Choksi secured the citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda in November 2017 under the aegis of the Citizenship by Investment Programme and fled to the island nation in the first week of January 2018.

India formally sought Choksi's extradition in August 2018 underlining the principle of reciprocity, the principle of dual criminality, and the United Nations Convention against Corruption to which both countries are signatories. In 2019, Antigua and Barbuda PM Gaston Browne said that Mehul Choksi will be revoked and will be extradited to India once all his legal options are exhausted. The current legal status of the fugitive diamantaire is shrouded in mystery as Aggarwal has stressed that the PNB scam accused remains a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda.
The Union Health Ministry of Thursday informed that the government has delivered a total of 18,006 oxygen concentrators, 19,085 oxygen cylinders, 19 oxygen generation plants, and 14,514 ventilators or BiPAP to states and Union Territories. The COVID relief were sent out to the states and UTs via road and air from April 27 to May 26. The relief also included 7 lakh Remdesivir vials, and 12 lakh Favipiravir tablets.

International forum on aid

The Government of India informed that on Tuesday and Wednesday, COVID relief consignments were received from Singapore, Brunei, Oman, Ontario (Canada), Egypt, Redcross Society, Sewa International (Australia), Swiss India Chamber of Commerce. Forum of Indian Professional (Hong Kong), and Volkswagen (Germany). The imported relief consisted of 155 concentrators, 900 oxygen cylinders, and 1,045 ventilators/Bi-PAP/CPAP.

The Union Health Ministry in a release stated, "The Union Health Ministry is comprehensively monitoring this on a regular basis. A dedicated Coordination Cell has been created in the Union Health Ministry to coordinate the receipt and allocation of foreign COVID relief materials as international cooperation in the form of grants, aid, and donations."

The cell is operational since April 26, whereas the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for distributing the relief was drawn out on May 2, added the release.

India records 2.1 lakh fresh COVID cases

India has been hit hard by the second wave of COVID-19 that affected the country with a more transmissible and unprecedented strain of the virus. The country recorded its peak cases on May 8 counting 4,03,405 fresh cases. Compared to the first week of May, the number of daily cases has reduced. In the last 24 hours the country 2.1 lakh fresh cases with an 8.84% infection rate. The country has reported a 90.01% recovery rate with medical relief coming from all over the world. Since April 27, the Union Health Ministry has informed about a number of donations and consignments reaching out to India from different parts of the world. The cooperation of the International Community has made it possible for India to successfully achieve the 'Whole of Government" approach, informed the Health Ministry.
The Goa government on Thursday classified mucormycosis or black fungus as a notified disease, making it mandatory for all private and government hospitals to report such cases. This decision has been taken by the state under the Goa, Daman and Diu Public Health Act, 1985. This comes after the Health ministry urged states to declare mucormycosis as a notifiable disease under Epidemic Diseases Act 1897.

"In exercise of the powers conferred by section 57 of the Goa, Daman and Diu Public Health Act, 1985 (Act 25 of 1985) (hereinafter called the 'said Act'), the Government of Goa hereby declares the following disease to be a notifiable disease for the purpose of part II of chapter VII of the said Act. throughout the State of Goa-- 1. Mucormycosis", read the Goa government's notification.

25-bed special Mucormycosis ward in Goa

In Goa, six cases of mucormycosis or black fungus have been confirmed in some COVID-19 patients. On Friday, the state government said it will set up a separate 25-bed special ward to treat people infected with black fungus at the Goa Medical College and Hospitals super-speciality block.

States declare black fungus under Epidemic Act

Assam, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Haryana have notified Black fungus as a disease under the Epidemic Act currently in force in all states, to let patients avail treatment under govt insurance.

What is Black Fungus?

According to the Union Health Ministry, mucormycosis is a fungal infection that mainly affects people who are on medication that reduces their ability to fight environmental pathogens. Sinuses or lungs of such individuals get affected after fungal spores are inhaled from air and it may turn fatal if not cared for. While it is very rare, it can lead to loss of the upper jaw and sometimes even the eye. Warning signs include pain and redness around the eyes and/or nose, fever, headache, coughing, shortness of breath, bloody vomit and altered mental status.

Is black fungus contagious? What are the risk factors involved?

Unlike COVID-19 Mucormycosisis is not contagious. The most important criterion for developing the infection is immunosuppression. The patients immunity has to be very low when the fungus invades. Mostly it develops after the patient has recovered from active Coronavirus or when he/she has been on a high dosage of steroids, said Dr Shikha Gupta talking to Republic.

(Image Credits: SHUTTERSTOCK/ANI)
New Delhi, May 27 (PTI) The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has sent one more ship to deal with the oil spill, if it occurs, from the merchant vessel X-Press Pearl that is on intense fire off the coast in Sri Lankan capital Colombo, the defence ministry said on Thursday.

The vessel was holding about 325 metric tonnes of fuel in its tanks. Also, X-Press Pearl was loaded with 1,486 containers carrying about 25 tonnes of hazardous nitric acid and other chemicals.

Sri Lanka's apex environment body on Thursday said the Singapore-flagged cargo vessel is in the process of sinking, and that preparations are underway to tackle the resulting oil spill. The defence ministry said that ICG Ships Vaibhav and Vajra have been sent and they continue their efforts to douse the intense fire onboard X-Press Pearl.

Moreover, ICG's Dornier aircraft has undertaken air reconnaissance of the area for assessment and support, it added.

No oil spill has been reported as yet, it noted.

"ICG ship Samudra Prahari, a specialised Pollution Response (PR) vessel, has also been despatched in PR configuration to augment the firefighting efforts and respond to oil spill, if occurred," it mentioned.

ICG deployed its assets in response to the request of Sri Lankan authorities and directives by the Indian government, the ministry said.

Initially, a fire occurred onboard X-Press Pearl, which is nine nautical miles from the Colombo port, on May 20 and it was brought under control within a day. A major fire ignited on board the vessel again on Tuesday morning. PTI DSP KJ

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
Srinagar, May 27 (PTI) Security forces have prevented six youth from joining militancy and arrested seven militant associates of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) outfit in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district, police said on Thursday.

In multiple raids, security forces apprehended six youth who were planning to join militant ranks, a police spokesman said.

He identified the youth as Aqib Ahmad Dobi, resident of Tral, Mufeez Ahmad Zargar, resident of Tral-e-Payeen, Saifullah Ahmad Shah, resident of Takiya Gulab Bagh Tral, Liyaqat Ahmhqad Khanday alias Amir, resident of Amlar Tral, Shoaib Ahmad Bhat, resident of Chersoo Awantipora and Bilal Ahmad Zaboo, resident of Tral-e-Bala.

These youth were "motivated and indoctrinated" to join terrorist ranks, the spokesman said. Preliminary investigation revealed they were motivated by Pakistan-based self-styled terror commanders to join terrorism and were asked to establish contact with their ground cadre in Awantipora and Tral areas, he said.

The spokesman said the security forces also busted a terror module by arresting seven militant associates linked with JeM.

He identified them as Sajad Ahmad Sheikh, resident of Pinglish Tral, Adil Hussain Sheikh and Mohammad Iqbal Baba, residents of Tral-e-Bala, Yasir Amin, resident of Noorabad Tral-e-Bala, Showkat Ahmad Sheikh and Ubaid Ahmad Mir, residents of Batagund Tral and Adil Rashid Bhat, resident of Kranzbal Tral.

As per police records, the arrested militant associates were motivating youth to join the militant ranks and were also involved in providing logistics, shelter and other kind of support to militants of JeM and helping them in transporting arms/ammunition in Tral and Awantipora areas, the spokesman said.

The arrested terror associates were also in touch with Pakistan-based self-styled terror commanders through different social media platforms, he said, adding that "incriminating material has also been recovered from them".

A case has been registered and investigation has been initiated, the spokesman added. PTI SSB MA MA MA

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
Gaborone (Botswana) 27 May 2021 (SPS)- Botswana Federation of Trade Unions (BFTU) backed Botswana Governments position on Western Sahara and affirmed that Africa cannot be free as long as Western Sahara is not free, in a Press Statement it issued Today in reaction to Africa Days statement of Botswanas Minister for External relation, Honourable Dr. Lemogang Kwape, widely broadcasted on the countrys Medias last Tuesday 25th may.

BFTU would like to acknowledge with a deep sense of pride and gratitude the Botswana governments position on the state of Western Sahara (Saharawi Republic) in its Africa Day message through the Minister of International Affairs and Cooperation, Dr. Lemogang Kwape, the text reads.

BFTU recalled that the Minister noted that it is regrettable that, while the Africa Day celebrations present an opportunity to reflect on our successes and prospects for the future, some countries on the continent have not attained their political independence and self- determination such as the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic.

BFTU commends governments position for aligning with and reiterating a stand that has been maintained by the continental body for a long time. Indeed, there is no justification, politically or morally for a fellow African country to occupy and torment another African territory, the press release stressed.

The Umbrella trade union affirmed support to the government of Botswanas view that Africa must speak with one voice and do everything within its reach to assure the liberation of the last remaining colony in the continent.

the text further emphasised that BFTU vehemently believe that Africa cannot be free unless Western Sahara is free.

It finally considered that the continued usurpation of the natural resources of the Saharawi by Morocco must therefore be regarded as a clear act of daylight robbery which must not be condoned by the AU and the world generally.

It should be recalled that Botswana Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Lemogang Kwape, has reiterated his countrys position on Western Sahara, in a statement he delivered Tuesday on the occasion of the celebrations of Africa Day.

Botswana believes that there is need to continue to speak with one voice to support and stand in solidarity with the people of Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic and call for their political emancipation through the African Union, the United Nations, and other relevant bodies, the Minister noted. (SPS)

090/500/60 (SPS)
In a recent development, the raging fire on MV X-Press Pearl container off Colombo coast has largely been controlled by the joint efforts of the Indian and Sri Lankan Navies and Coast Guards, said the Indian High Commission in Colombo on Thursday. India on May 25 responded to an emergency request by Sri Lanka Navy and deployed multiple assets to douse the fire on MV X Press Pearl off Colombo.

The High Commission of India in Colombo tweeted, "Result of the India-Sri Lanka joint operation is now more tangible. The raging fire has largely been controlled and parts of MV X-Press Pearl are now clearly visible even as the fight continues,"

Update - Result of the #India -#SriLanka joint operation is now more tangible. The raging fire has largely been controlled and parts of #MVXPressPearl are now clearly visible even as the fight continues. Hoping for more good news. Stay tuned!! @IndiaCoastGuard pic.twitter.com/pqiHwp8nY2  India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) May 27, 2021

Earlier this morning, in another tweet the High Commission aid "Fire on MV X-Press Pearl has reduced considerably due to untiring efforts by Navies and Coast Guards of India and Sri Lanka.''

Pictures speak aloud! Fire on #MVXPressPearl has reduced considerably due to untiring efforts by Navies&Coast Guards of #India and #SriLanka. White smoke in the visuals is of steam from spraying of water on the hot metal. More power to the joint operation... @IndiaCoastGuard pic.twitter.com/xelBw8urVT  India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) May 27, 2021

India provides Assistance

In the wake of an onboard explosion on the Singapore-flagged MV X Press Pearl, Sri Lankan Navy had sought Indias assistance for firefighting as well as pollution control on Tuesday. The Government of India then immediately deployed assets. India dispatched ICG Vaibhav, ICG Dornier and Tug Water Lilly for fighting the fire. As per the press note, the Dornier aircraft reached Colombo around 4 pm on May 25 and the first Vessel reached around 7 pm.

Help on way! Responding promptly as ever to the request by #SriLanka, #India dispatches #ICGVaibhav, #ICGDornier and Tug Water Lilly for fighting the fire on MV X Press Pearl off Colombo.@MFA_SriLanka pic.twitter.com/x9D9XyrkyJ  India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) May 25, 2021

MV X Press Pearl explosion

The fire broke out in the forecastle area of the MV X Press Pearl, a container ship anchored 9.5 nautical miles northwest of the Port of Colombo. The fire spread to the quarterdeck where the bridge is stationed and it was exacerbated by strong winds due to changing weather conditions. The crew of the ship and members of the emergency response team of the Salvor have, however, been safely brought ashore as of now.

The cargo vessel was carrying a consignment of chemicals and raw materials for cosmetics from Hazira in Gujarat to the Colombo Port. It caught fire on May 20 after which a major operation was launched to extinguish the flames of the ship. A special team of the Sri Lankan Navy, Sri Lanka Ports Authority and Marine Environment Protection Authority reached the fire-hit container ship on May 21.

Situation Update: Latest pictures of the "X-PRESS PEARL" vessel which is presently engulfed in flames. Pictures were captured by the SLAF Bell 212 this morning. pic.twitter.com/XRWO42Xi5Z  Sri Lanka Air Force (@airforcelk) May 25, 2021

(With ANI Inputs)

(Image Credits: @IndiainSL/Twitter)
EAM Jaishankar Hails Indo-Pak Ceasefire, Sends A Stern Warning On Cross-border Terrorism

As the India-Pakistan ceasefire continues, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Wednesday, highlighted that cross-border terrorism had been the issue since partition in 1947. In a conversation with former US National Security Advisor General HR McMaster, Jaishankar said that the two neighbours will have to find a way to co-exist while calling the ceasefire a 'good step'. Jaishankar is on a 5-day trip to the US to hold talks on vaccine import, QUAD, defence ties, trade relations etc.

We had an agreement few weeks ago that we would not fire across LoC. That is a good step. But I think there are bigger issues. At the end of the day, the two neighbors have to find ways...Since 1947, part of the problem has been cross-border terrorism: EAM on India-Pak relations pic.twitter.com/H6N76U8mQb  ANI (@ANI) May 26, 2021

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Antigua PM Speaks To Republic On Mehul Choksi; Calls His Fleeing A 'monumental Error'

As the fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi remains holed up in Dominica, Prime Minister of Antigua & Barbuda Gaston Browne spoke to Republic Media Network late Wednesday night, assuring that Dominica must be able to deport him directly to India, as he was a 'persona non-grata'. Browne said that as Choksi enjoyed constitutional rights associated to his Antiguan citizenship, his government could not act on him. The PNB scam accused who has been 'absconding' since Sunday was held by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Dominica, three days later.

Antigua PM talks to Republic

When asked about how Choksi left Antigua and reached Dominica, Browne said, "We don't have details as to how he reached Dominica. This matter is the subject of an investigation". Browne has now refused to grant him entry in Antigua and asked the Dominican government to directly deport him to India.



Urging the Dominican govt to send Choksi directly to India, Browne added, "He does not have constitutional rights in Dominica. I am of the firm view that he can be directly repatriated to India. I have informed the Indian High Commission officials in Bermuda. I have not been in touch with any minister in India."

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COVID-19 Origin: China Slams 'smear Campaign And Blame Shifting' As Joe Biden Orders Probe

Pressure continues to mount on China as countries seek more clarity on the origin of COVID-19 that has gripped the world. United States President Joe Biden on Thursday ordered US intelligence agencies to further probe the origins of Coronavirus. Biden has also directed the US agencies to submit a report in 90 days. Soon after this development, the Chinese embassy in the United States has issued a response stating that China supports a comprehensive study and a thorough investigation.

"Lately, some people have played the old trick of political hype on the origin tracing of COVID-19 in the world. Smear campaign and blame shifting are making a comeback, and the conspiracy theory of "lab leak" is resurfacing." China's statement added

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US Billionaire Mark Cuban Invests In Mumbai's $13 Bn 'sidechain' Polygon Cryptocurrency

In a recent development in the cryptocurrency community, a US-based entrepreneur and tech billionaire Mark Cuban invested an unrevealed amount in the Indian Cryptocurrency platform, Polygon which is a blockchain startup. Mumbai-based blockchain project Polygon (previously known as Matic) is a protocol and a framework for assembling Ethereum-compatible blockchain networks. The startup maps accessible resolutions on Ethereum aiding a multi-chain Ethereum ecosystem.

Cuban's website said, "Polygon is the first well-structured, easy-to-use platform for Ethereum scaling and infrastructure development. Its core component is Polygon SDK, a modular, flexible framework that supports building and connecting Secured Chains like Plasma, Optimistic Rollups, zkRollups, Validium etc and Standalone Chains like Polygon POS, designed for flexibility and independence. Polygons scaling solutions have seen widespread adoption with 250+ Dapps, ~76M txns and ~790K unique users."

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Cyclone Yaas Impact: Odisha CM Announces 7-day Relief For Family Of 128 Stranded Villages

Amid heavy damages caused by 'Cyclone Yaas' in Odisha, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, on Wednesday announced seven-day relief for all families of 128 stranded villages of cyclone-affected districts. The CM has also informed that Major roads and 80% electricity supply will be restored within the next 24 hours. Reportedly, the state witnessed the highest recorded rainfall and the sea waves were as high as 2-4 M due to Cyclone Yaas.

Reviewing post #CycloneYaas situation in the state, CM @Naveen_Odisha announced 7 days relief for all families of 128 marooned villages of the affected districts. Major roads and 80% electricity supply to be restored in the affected districts in next 24 hrs. #OdishaFightsYaas pic.twitter.com/KoIbTa0XSj  CMO Odisha (@CMO_Odisha) May 26, 2021

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Citing safety concerns, a lawyer on Thursday has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discontinue the MIG-21 aircraft from the Indian Air Force. This request came six days after an IAF fighter pilot was killed in MiG-21 aircraft that crashed. Advocate Satyam Singh mentioned the accident of Squadron Leader Abhinav Choudhary in his letter-- where he was killed when a MiG-21 Bison fighter jet he was flying crashed in Punjab's Moga district on May 21.

Advocate Singh also sent a copy of his letter to the Secretary, Defence Ministry and the Air Chief Marshal, Indian Air Force. He said the recent incident has once again raised questions on the safety of the Soviet-era aircraft.

Delay in new fighter jets' induction

The letter informed that in October 2014, the Air Force Chief had said that due to the delay in removing the old aircraft, India's security is threatened as some part of the fleet is out of date. According to the letter, the experts believe that one of the main reasons for the accidents is the absence of replacements for the MiG-21 in the fleet.

"Experts say that more MiG-21s have crashed than any other fighter because they formed the bulk of the fighter aircraft in the IAF's inventory for a long time. IAF had to keep its MiG-21 fleet flying longer than it would have liked because of a delay in the induction of new fighter jets," the letter stated.

The letter stated that in 1985, Russia removed the aircraft from service, followed by Bangladesh and Afghanistan. This year alone witnessed three accidents involving the MiG-21 Bison.

"Just this year alone, there have been three accidents involving the MiG-21 Bison, which was originally supposed to be replaced by the Tejas. In 2012, former Defence Minister A K Antony had said in Parliament that more than half of the 872 MIG aircraft purchased from Russia had crashed. Due to this, more than 200 persons, including 171 pilots, 39 civilians, and 8 other services people, had lost their lives," said the letter.

The letter further stated there was a widespread demand to phase out MiG-21 which has clearly outlived its utility. As per official reports, the MIG aircraft, which joined the Indian Air Force in the 1960s, completed their retirement period in the mid-1990. As the aircraft is a single-engine that means it is always under threat and the chance of a plane crash increases when a bird collides or the engine fails, read in the letter.

"The fighting ability of these aircraft of the MiG-21 series is still intact and it is unmatchable, but the record of this aircraft is not very good in terms of safety. More than 400 MiG-21s have been involved in accidents that have claimed the lives of 200 pilots during the last six decades, earning the fighters ominous epithets such as 'Flying Coffin' and 'Widow Maker'," stated the representation sent to the Prime Minister by the lawyer.

For the last 50 years, MiG series fighter aircraft have been the backbone of the Indian Air Force and since 1960 the IAF has received more than 850 MIG fighter aircraft. Not only this, these aircraft have played a decisive role for the country in the 1965 India-Pakistan war, the 1971 war, and the 1999 Kargil war, said the letter.

(With ANI Inputs)

(Image Credits: ANI/PTI)
The rising number of COVID-19 cases in India and the vaccine shortage that has emerged from that tops the list of issues to be discussed between External Affairs Minister of India S Jaishankar and his US counterpart Antony Blinken during the meeting in the US. Jaishankar, who landed in New York on May 23 as part of a week-long US visit, marks the first visit of a high-level Indian Minister since Democratic President Joe Biden entered office in January this year.

Vaccines issue will come up during EAM's meetings in US. Visit isn't just about vaccines. We hope we'll get those vaccines,US has some stock. There have been discussions about how we get vaccines in India. Indemnity & Emergency Use Authorisation an issue. It's in process: Sources  ANI (@ANI) May 27, 2021

COVID-related issues to be discussed between Jaishankar and Blinken

As per sources, Jaishankar during the meeting with Blinken is to bring to the attention of Blinken the prevailing COVID-19 scenario in India. In a bid to fight the pandemic by augmenting the vaccination drive, Jaishankar is going to ask for the help of Blinken in terms of delivery of vaccines, which is said to be lying unused in the US stock. There have been discussions for the procurement of the vaccines, and that does not seem like a mammoth challenge if Indemnity and Emergency Use Authorisation issues are solved.

It is pertinent to mention here that US has a stockpile of millions of AstraZeneca vaccine doses and also Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines, and has pledged to distribute 80 million doses from this stockpile to countries in need, of which 20 million doses are promised alone to India.

Vaccines not the only point of discussion

As per sources, though important, vaccines will not be the only point of discussion, and the leaders will also talk on lines of International relationships. The LAC standoff in Ladakh and the recent cozying up of the four members of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue are sticking points in Sino-Indian ties and both would figure in Jaishankars talks Blinken.

Other issues of importance for India would be the Afghan peace process, especially in the light of a complete drawdown of US and allied forces from the country. Australia this week announced that it would close its embassy in Afghanistan due to the increasingly uncertain security environment" in Kabul as foreign troops withdraw. The implications of the changed scenario in the troubled country are of great significance to New Delhi.

It is pertinent to mention here that Jaishankar and Blinkan had met earlier this month at the G7 conference in London and discussed ways to deepen cooperation in multilateral fora, including at the UN Security Council. The US has backed Indias claim for a permanent seat on the crucial UN body but China remains the stumbling block in this area. This issue may also come up between the two leaders this time.

(Credit-AP/PTI)
It has been speculated that WhatsApp has released a secret update that urges users to check their privacy settings. The messaging platform has faced several backlashes in recent years due to its negligence towards user security. The seemingly new WhatsApp update targets group settings to include everyone by default, meaning people you dont know can also add you to a group without your knowing. Learn more about this WhatsApp update.

WhatsApp update threatens privacy, faces backlash

The secret update was first notified by Twitter user Mobberley NW who dedicated a thread on how to change the default WhatsApp settings. In his tweet, he mentioned how this update can promote scam messages and loan sharks and threaten WhatsApp security. Forbes, however, stated that this update has been sitting around on the platform as early as 2019. In a statement to Forbes, WhatsApp, too, confirmed that the "dangerous" setting update was two years overdue.

WhatsApp has recently changed its group settings to include everyone by default so people you dont know can add you to a group without your knowing. These people may include scam messages, loan Sharks, etc. You can change its default settings as follows: #mobberley #knutsford pic.twitter.com/xzqpeJmHeD  Mobberley NW (@MobberleyNw) May 18, 2021

"I have checked WhatsApp on an iPhone and Android device, both with the latest update, and there was no forced change to this setting. But, while this alert is likely misleading, you should change that setting. This is just one of the critical privacy and settings you should change in WhatsApp," surveillance and cybersecurity expert Zak Doffman wrote for the publication. Here's how you change your WhatsApp settings -

Enter the WhatsApp application and open the 'slide-down menu' with three vertical dots in the upper right corner.

Go to Settings>Account>Privacy

A clickable link called 'Groups' will be present on the privacy page. You will see that indeed 'Everyone' can add you to groups as the platform has that check-marked by default.

Change settings to 'My contacts' or 'My contacts, except' and click on done.

In other news, WhatsApp moved to the Delhi High Court challenging the Centre's recent rules for social media intermediaries that call for the traceability of messages. The Facebook-owned messaging platform reportedly filed the petition on May 25, which was the last day to comply with the guidelines. Invoking the Supreme Court's verdict in the 2017 Justice K S Puttaswamy (Retd.) vs Union Of India case, it has argued that the traceability provision is against the fundamental right to privacy.

IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK
NASA on Tuesday announced that it is planning to send its first mobile robot to the Moon in late 2023 that will conduct a search for the presence of ice and other resources on and below the lunar surface. The Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover, or VIPER, will help the space agency to harvest resources on the lunar South Pole such that it will benefit the long-term human exploration of the celestial body in the future. VIPER will use the headlights in its design to light areas on the moon than havent witnessed the sunlight in billions of years and are also the coldest regions in the universe. According to a release published on May 25, NASA plans to send the rover on the moon as a part of its Artemis program.

Before @NASA_Astronauts touch down on the lunar South Pole, @NASA's VIPER rover will lead the way, hunting for ice and other materials we'll need to live on the Moon >> https://t.co/1doHXCdR7S @NASAArtemis pic.twitter.com/NCdrdwwquW  NASA Marshall (@NASA_Marshall) May 24, 2021

Running on solar power, VIPER will need to quickly maneuver around the extreme swings in light and dark at the lunar South Pole, NASA explained. It also informed that it has awarded a task order to Astrobotic for the lunar rover VIPERs launch, transit, and delivery to the moon under the agencys Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative. Using its specialized set of wheels and suspension system, VIPER will explore a variety of inclines and soil types. Its advanced and futuristic design will reflect the former robotic concept to prospect the Moon called Resource Prospector. After NASA canceled the project in early 2018, the VIPER mission duration was extended from one to three lunar days, approximately 100 Earth days.

We're sending a robotic scout to the Moon's South Pole to hunt for vital resources, like ice! Part of our @NASAArtemis program, our Moon rover, VIPER, will pave the way for sustainable human exploration. https://t.co/5xNksd6XYT  NASA Moon (@NASAMoon) May 20, 2021

Director for NASAs Planetary Science Division at the agencys Headquarters in Washington, Lori Glaze said, The data received from VIPER has the potential to aid our scientists in determining precise locations and concentrations of ice on the Moon and will help us evaluate the environment and potential resources at the lunar south pole in preparation for Artemis astronauts. He added, This is yet another example of how robotic science missions and human exploration go hand in hand, and why both are necessary as we prepare to establish a sustainable presence on the Moon.

VIPER to have four instruments

NASAs VIPER will a total of four instruments to the moon. This includes the Regolith and Ice Drill for Exploring New Terrains (TRIDENT) hammer drill, the Mass Spectrometer Observing Lunar Operations (MSolo) instrument, the Near-Infrared Volatiles Spectrometer System (NIRVSS), and the Neutron Spectrometer System (NSS). All of these instruments will be tested by the scientists on the lunar surface ahead of the VIPER mission. This would mitigate the risk and test instrument performance data, according to NASA.

As part of @NASAArtemis, @NASA is planning to send a rover to the Moon in 2023 in search of ice & other resources on & below the lunar surface. Learn more about the Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover (VIPER) in this #STIdoc from @NASAAmes: https://t.co/yKxis8IdNT  pic.twitter.com/6zV6C27hdP  NASA STI Program (@NASA_STI) May 21, 2021
SpaceX, on Wednesday, executed its second launch of Falcon 9 first stage booster with 60 Starlink satellites to orbit. The same two-stage-to-orbit previously launched the Sentinel-6A mission. Elon Musk's Aerospace company launched the 60 Starlink satellites from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

This was the 13th Starlink launch of the year for SpaceX. The company's Dragon propulsion engineer Youmei Zhou, during Wednesday's live stream, expressed his happiness by adding that every launch closely connects people from across the world. The engineer also added that more satellites install more ground stations and continue to improve the company's networking software, data speed latency and dramatic enhancement of uptime.

Weather across Florida has been favorable for rocket launching with extreme dryness in the wet season. According to the 45th Weather Squadron, Wednesdays forecast was no different. Weather conditions were expected to be 90% ideal for the launch window.

Watch Falcon 9 launch 60 Starlink satellites to orbit  https://t.co/bJFjLCzWdK https://t.co/IF1aGLTBbb  SpaceX (@SpaceX) May 26, 2021

SpaceX chief Elon Musk also retweeted the company's post on the 40th flight and first fairing half on its fifth mission.

Today's flight will mark the 40th time SpaceX has reflown Falcon fairing halves since November 2019  SpaceX (@SpaceX) May 26, 2021

The successful liftoff of its 229-foot-tall (70 meters) workhorse Falcon 9 rockets marked the fourth time SpaceX launched a batch of Starlink satellites within four many weeks, as the company works to expand its flourishing broadband constellation. With several more plans ahead in the month, SpaceX's rapid speed will continue in June. The next mission includes space station resupply mission, slated to blast off June 3.

SpaceXs 85th landing of an orbital class rocket booster

This was the 85th landing of SpaceX's reusable launch system development program. To fully facilitate a rapid reusable launch of space vehicles, the aerospace company has been developing the technologies over several years. Vehicle's first stage generally does not return back after a launch but SpaceX has developed a technology where it returns for reuse after a few hours of the mission.

SpaceX will recover both halves of the orbit after they collapse in the Atlantic Ocean. Go Searcher and Go Navigator, the same vessels that recover SpaceXs Crew Dragon capsules will be used as its recovery boats. With this launch, SpaceX now has about 1,600 satellites orbiting the Earth providing internet to multiple counties, including in the U.S. and Canada.
Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Morocco is aiming to get a collective immunity for 80 per cent of prisoners under its campaign that was launched back in March. During a press tour of the El Arjat prison, the head of health of the prison authority DGAPR, Taoufiq Abtal, informed that currently, Morocco has already vaccinated nearly 4,000 inmates under its campaign to inoculate the incarcerated population against coronavirus. Abtal added that now the country aims to work towards a collective immunity of its prisoners.

Abtal called the campaign a pioneering operation and stressed that good progress has been made. The DGAPR informed that Moroccos 78 prisons hold nearly 85,000 inmates, 45 per cent of whom are in pre-trial detention, with the North African kingdoms prison system suffering a chronic problem of overcrowding. Inmates live in an average surface area of 1.8 square metres and the non-governmental Moroccan Observatory of Prisons say some jails have an occupancy rate of more than 250 per cent.

Moroccos COVID-19 outbreak

Abtal said that the vaccination campaign in prisons is currently targeting inmates aged over 45 and those with chronic illness. It is worth mentioning that since late January, around eight million Moroccans have received one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and nearly five million have had two doses, according to the official figures. The country recently also eased restrictions imposed to control the spread of the coronavirus and it has shortened the night-time curfew.

Morocco, still, however, has a long-standing state of emergency over the health crisis, which has been extended until June 10. The countrys civil aviation authority also informed that Moroccos borders will remain closed to 54 countries until at least June 10. To date, the kingdom has recorded over 517,000 cases of Covid-19 since the pandemic began, including 9,131 deaths.

Image: AP


As US President Joe Biden ordered more intel investigation of COVID-19 origin, China on May 27 hit out at the dark history of the US intelligence community. While speaking at a press briefing, Chinas ministry of foreign affairs spokesman Zhao Lijian rejected the need for a new investigation into the pandemic and said that the Biden administrations motive and purposes are clear. He accused the administration of playing politics and shirking its responsibility in calling for a renewed investigation and further also added that US does not care about facts, not it is interested in serious scientific origin tracing.

Further, while referring to the US unfounded allegations of weapons of mass destruction which justified its invasion of Iraq, Zhao said, The dark history of the US intelligence community has long been known to the world.

Biden has told US intelligence officials to redouble their efforts to investigate the origins of the pandemic, including any possibility the trail might lead to a Chinese laboratory. He asked the agency to prepare a report on the latest and updated analysis of the origins of COVID-19 within 90 days. White House has also deemed the investigation into the origin a "critical priority" and urged more transparency.

Zhao, on the other hand, said that the US must open itself up to investigate its biological laboratories, including at the military's Fort Detrick base. He said that the US side claims that it wants China to participate in a comprehensive, transparent, evidence-based international China. We would like to ask the U.S. side to do the same as China and immediately cooperate with the World Health Organization on origin tracing research in a scientific manner, he added.

Wuhan lab leak theory

It is imperative to note that lab-leak theory, initially trotted out by former US President Donald Trump then dismissed as "highly unlikely" by a delayed World Health Organization mission to China, has resurfaced in recent days. China rejects the theory the virus may have emerged from a virology lab in Wuhan. It has instead accused the US of peddling "conspiracies" and politicising the pandemic.

But the intensifying probe into COVID-19 origins globally holds relevance days after a previously undisclosed and controversial Wall Street report propelled conspiracies claiming three researchers from China's Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) sought hospital care after they fell sick in November 2019. This was a month prior to Beijing's opening report of COVID-like symptoms in a patient. Fueling speculation on COVID-19 lab leak theory, the confidential US report read, "The US government has reason to believe that 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 illness.

(Image: AP/Pixabay)


Hong Kong police on May 27 banned next month's vigil marking Beijing's deadly Tiananmen Square crackdown. It is second year in a row that authorities have denied permission to the organizers. The Hong Kong Alliance which has organised the annual vigil for more than three decades, said police cited the ongoing coronavirus pandemic in their refusal.

Hong Kong ban Tiananmen vigil

Hong Kong authorities for the second year have banned the June 4 candlelight vigil commemorating the bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protests in Beijings Tiananmen Square. The Hong Kong Alliance in support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China said in a statement that the police had objected to the event citing social distancing restrictions, which prohibit large gatherings, according to AP.

Speaking at the Legislative Council on May 27, Hong Kongs security minister, John Lee has warned people to not organize or take part in unauthorized assemblies on June 4 as they could be violating the national security law. Lee warned citizens not to challenge the laws, including the national security law and the social distancing rules. The Hong Kong Alliance has urged people to light a candle wherever you are at 8 p.m. on June 4 to commemorate the victims of the massacre on its 32nd anniversary.

As per local reports, the Hong Kong Alliance in support of patriotic democratic movements of China has received two letters of objection from the police, with one banning a march set for May 30 and the second banning the annual June 4 vigil. Last year, the June 4 vigil was banned for the first time, with police citing public health due to the novel virus, according to AP. Thousands of people however defying the order turned up at Victoria Park where the vigil is held each year. More than 20 people, including activist Joshua Wong, media tycoon Jimmy Lai and Lee Cheuk-yan, a leader of the alliance, were arrested later and charged with taking part in an unauthorized assembly.

IMAGE: AP

Inputs from AP
During the Netanyahu era, the Mossad invigorated and authenticate its strategic cooperation with CIA as well as with the intelligence apparatuses of Persian Gulf states such as Bahrain, the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

by Erfan Fard

On May 24, 2021, based on all prestigious media of Israel, David Barnea appointed as the new Mossad head.

At the time of The late Shah of Iran, Muhammad Reza Pahlavi, SAVAK had a bonhomous alliance with Israels Mossad. In the Shahs view, it was in the Iranian national interest to be palsy-walsy with Israel and to have reposeful relations with Arabs. During that golden age, the Mossad had operational stations in Tehran and cooperated with SAVAK, Irans security and intelligence service, to shape the military operations of Iraqi Kurds. Alas, Mossad never tried to stand by SAVAK in monitoring the Islamic Terrorist Groups which were affiliated to Khomeini.





The bewilderment was there that the Mossad did foreglimpse the rebellion of the winter of 1979 in Iran; a winter with no spring in sight. discernibly, Mossad and SAVAK knew well that more than 11 terrorist groups, or transnational terrorist networks, were fomenting a rebellion in Iran.

Since the emergence of Mullahs republic in 1979, Iran has been ruled by an expansionist and terrorist Shiite theocracy with global hegemonic ambitions. The Mullahs regime, which supported Islamic terrorism from its earliest days, followed the Khomeinism ideology of Shiite theocracy. It was  and also remains  committed to exporting the Islamic revolution (or Khomeinism which is mixture of a new phenomenon) wherever it can and challenging international norms and the civilized world.

In the Mossad, it appears that the foreign policy doctrine of Israel with regard to the Middle East will be the pursuit of stability in the region via multilateral engagement. This will entail a new flourishing secret operations inside Iran. in actuality, Mossad challenged the notorious intelligence community of Iran, such as MOIS and IRGC Intelligence Organization, and paralyzed Mullahs ambition in reaching Nuclear bombs.

The Mossad poked around for diminish the regimes ballistic missile program, terminate its clandestine program to generate nuclear weapons, abort its funding of Shiite transnational terrorist proxies in the region, and peter out the regimes underpinning and ratification of terrorism in the Middle East.

David Barnea, the Mossads current deputy chief, will be supplanted Yossi Cohen as head of the celebrated spy agency in Israel where is full of talented specialists and elite people. based of Mossadd Archaive, Barnea has served as deputy director since 2019 and beat out A, a former deputy chief, for the job.

Undeviatingly, the main priorities for Dedi in Mossad will be: Iran and IRGC Quds Forces Transnational Terrorist Network [ Hamas, Hezbollah, Islamic Jihad, PKK and etc ].

Israel Government named a veteran Spy, Dedi, as his pick to lead the Mossad, Israel espionage agency. what is more, he will continue in that role enthusiastically to eliminate the Terrorists of the Region.

More to the point, hitherto, Dedi knows the main role of counter-terrorism and counter-proliferation centers of Mossad where they scrutinize Irans disastrous role in causing anarchy, insecurity and shakiness in the Middle East, Europe and Latin America. intrinsically and verily, Mossad knows the ambitions of IRGC Quds Force much better than other intelligence agencies in the globe.

The Mossad analysts and officers and their friends around the globe have a history of intelligence-gathering in the Middle East and know auspiciously that not only Iran is a bad actor but also it is the abettor of all transnational criminal actors in the region from Middle East to Africa and to the American hemisphere.

During the Netanyahu era, the Mossad invigorated and authenticate its strategic cooperation with CIA as well as with the intelligence apparatuses of Persian Gulf states such as Bahrain, the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

As far as I know, unerringly, the new director of Mossad with eagerness and valorousness will continue to lead the Mossad to make more remunerative operations and peerless performance. Dedi knows well that The rogue regime in Tehran is the primary source of turmoil and instability in the Middle East. The regime thirsts for ever more dominance across the region and beyond and employs a terrorist network to achieve that goal, even as it continues to move aggressively in its pursuit of nuclear weapons.  additionally, Irans expansionist ambitions have led to sectarianism, radicalism, terror, and chaos in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Yemen, and the Persian Gulf.

It was a great triumph that under the monitoring of MOIS and IRGC-IO with the help of other intelligence services, the Mossad was so qualified and skilled to gather reliable information on Irans illegitimate nuclear weapons program and eliminate the threats professionally, such as the architect of Irans nuclear program (Mohsen Fakhrizadeh), or gathering the evidence of clandestine activities in atomic centers and the elimination of al-Qaedas number two in Tehran or abolition of Natanz and other industries on Iranian soil.

Ostensibly, Mossad, was one of the main elements which caused Mullahs of Iran suffered from international isolation and a depleted economy. Mossad, periodically, played an amazing game with Tehrans intelligence community. Tehran announced several times that it had captured dozens of spies working for the Mossad and massacred most of them, but until this moment Mossad has an upper hand inside Iran. after 1979, Mossad was sitting pretty in Iran.

The Iranian regimes intelligence community, from now on, venture to knows Dedi much better. After the collapse of the MOIS during the presidency of Hassan Rouhani, Iran will continued the relationship with Syrian intelligence and facilitated the stage to attack Israel through their proxies and dark inactive cells inside the soil of Israel.

By force of habit, The Iranian mullahs mad about using terrorism, and wish to continue their covert pursuit of nuclear weapons. David is savvy gifted and he is fully aware of the true nature of the Islamic regime and religious octopus in Iran.

Noticeably, Irans continued belligerency in the region. the regional terrorist activities of the Quds Force and its destructive role will continued irrationally, MOIS from the Middle East to northern Africa to South America. Mossad has the capacity to penetrate many of Irans military and political centers and Mullahs intelligence community, Palace of Treason, with no problem.

Its worth to notice that Dedi, has learned over the years that deals made with the Shiite mullahs cannot be relied upon and he knows that the current administration in the US plays ducks and drakes with Mullahs, any diplomacy and negotiation with Mullahs cannot be frugiferous at all. . This Mossad with 72 years of splendid experience and with a staff of about 7,000 cognize the malign role played by the current Iranian regime. alas, Mossad goofed off to help the serious Iranian opposition in the plan of regime change.

When I had a friendly meeting with one of the CIA Agents in Greece on 2006 , or 10 years after David joined the Mossad,. I was there and communicated with Israel, because I wanted to have an interview with Ariel Sharon, who was accepted, I told The Agent of Spy bluntly: The Islamic Republic will continue its aggressive behavior no matter who is in charge at Mossad or Langley. The regimes pursuit of hegemonic power in the Middle East and beyond will not abate. The MOIS and the Quds Force will continue to operationally support terrorism as well as Irans covert ballistic and nuclear programs. anyway, I couldnt meet Israel, but I like to repeat that sentence to Dedi reiteratively.

Though Dedi is a knowledgeable expert, his prospect accomplishment in the region will depend on the cooperation of regional intelligence and concentrating in Iran and regime of terrorist loving Mullahs. actually, Mossad can help the public opinion of Young generation in Iran that whats the meaning of theocratic regime and the most dangerous terrorist power in the globe.

Cheers to Daviss continued success  Dedi deserves his promotion and will do great in his new role in Mossad! Wishing him the best success. The Mullahs regime will not be happy for this replacement and appointment at the helm of the Mossad, because the prime minister declared,  the top task is of this new spymaster is to prevent Iranian regime from acquiring nuclear weapons. He will do that with courage, coup de maitre, knowledge and honesty. May He enjoy brilliant successes! He is the man of operations!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR : Erfan Fard is a counter-terrorism analyst and Middle East Studies researcher based in Washington, DC. he is in Middle Eastern regional security affairs with a particular focus on Iran, Counter terrorism, IRGC, MOIS and Ethnic conflicts in MENA .he graduated in International Security Studies (London M. University, UK), and in International Relations (CSU-LA), and is fluent in Persian, Kurdish, Arabic and English. Follow him in this twitter account @EQFARD
Pakistan authorities have launched an investigation into the anchoring of a ship at the Gadani shipbreaking yard despite Interpol's warning that the vessel contains dangerous chemicals. The Environment Protection Agency of Balochistan has sealed the plot of Gadani yard, where the ship was anchored for scrapping and sent the samples of loaded material to three private laboratories in Karachi.

The Lasbela deputy commissioner ordered the probe on Wednesday, asking the concerned authorities to ascertain how the ship reached Gadani despite the presence of dangerous material in the ship.

"We have sealed plot No-58 where the ship was brought for scrapping," Imran Saeed Kakar, Deputy Director of Environment Department, Balochistan said. No permission was granted to the owner who brought the ship to Gadani for scrapping, he added.

The Deputy Director said further process would start after receiving reports from the three laboratories. "If the mercury sludge is found in more than the authorised quantity then a case would be registered against the person who purchased the ship through his agent from Mumbai and the plot would be sealed permanently and the owner would face legal action," he added.

As per reports, on April 22, Interpol had asked Pakistan authorities and FIA not to permit the ship into Pakistan. The ship reportedly contains 1,500 tonnes of mercury mixed oil, due to which Bangladesh and India did not permit entry to the ship.

In Mumbai, the name of the ship was changed from FS Ordient to Cherish. After changing the name, the ship reached Karachi from Mumbai on April 21 and the owners succeeded to bring it to Gadani.

(With inputs from agency)
On May 26, Sri Lankan authorities struggled to put out a fire that has been raging for over seven days on a stricken container ship that is loaded with chemicals, due to strong winds linked to Cyclone Yaas. With the risk of potential environmental disaster, the Singapore-registered vessel within the sight of the shore, carrying at least 25 tonnes of nitric acid and other unspecified chemicals and cosmetics, caught fire on May 20 when it was anchored about 9.5 nautical miles northwest of Colombo and waiting to enter its port. As per reports, eight of MV X-Press Pearl's 1,500 containers fell overboard on May 25 with one of them washing ashore at the Negombo tourist beach.

However, the strong winds linked with the Cyclone Yaas hitting eastern India posed additional challenges for the Sri Lankan authorities to put of the blaze and a huge cloud of black smoke was reportedly seen above the ship. Sri Lankas airforce has dedicated helicopters to deliver nearly 25 kilograms (935 pounds) of fire-retardant chemicals on the ship Wednesday. Meanwhile, Dharshani Lahandapura from the Marine Environment Protection Authority told the reporters in Colombo that containment measures were being put into place considering the potential incident involving the spilling of chemicals of fuel oil.

"Computer modelling showed any spill from the ship will reach the Negombo beach and we are ready to tackle it," Lahandapura told reporters in Colombo. Given the monsoon wind pattern, we are concentrating on this area and we are moving equipment to deal with a spill.

European firefighters help Sri Lanka

As per the Associated Press, European firefighters and salvage experts have also joined efforts of the Sri Lankan crews battling a seven-day fire onboard a container ship. Reportedly, the blazes have spread to the quarterdeck where the ships bridge is located, and a large number of containers have tumbled into the sea. All 25 crew members have evacuated the ship as of May 25 following an explosion with two of them suffering from leg injuries. The company informed that the two injured crew members are in hospital while the remaining 23 are in a quarantine facility in Colombo.

IMAGE: AP
Detained for almost over a week with coercion, Malis transitional President and Prime Minister on May 26 were both released by the Military members after they turned in a formal resignation. Stripped of their political powers in the African nations second coup in nine months, President Bah NDaw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane were held forcibly at Kati military headquarters along with other political leaders on commands of Col. Assimi Goita of the military forces who regained control of the West African nation in an unprecedented move. According to African press reports, both the leaders were taken into custody following the announcement of Cabinet reshuffle, which the military Chief said was done without his consent.

The international mediation mission in Mali and the special adviser to Colonel Assimi Goita told a news conference on Wednesday that both President Bah Ndaw and his Prime Minister Moctar Ouane have resigned before the arbitrator. He continued, that the negotiations were underway with the ruling strongman for their release and the formation of a new government.

Shortly afterward, an ECOWAS delegation visited the Kati military camp, about 15 km from Bamako, to take stock of arrested leaders as they condemned the move. This came amid the hue and cry by the nations opposition M5 movement that demanded the dissolution of the interim government and setting up a more legitimate administration. Malis military colonel, the vice-president in the transitional government, accused the ousted PM and the President of sabotaging the transition.

French President Emmanuel Macron described the government takeover as a coup detat as he warned of repercussions. We are prepared to take targeted sanctions on the protagonists, Macron said in a tweet.

Violated 'transitional charter'

West African countrys protracted political crisis began after the military leader Goita expressed angst at the interim President and the PM for not consulting with him about new governments nomination. He accused the two leaders of violating the transitional charter, a document that lays down principles for Mali's return to civilian rule. Military Junta leader decried breach of the transitional charter and announced that the transition would normally proceed with the scheduled elections in 2022 in Mali.

Meanwhile, he ordered the arrest of the political leaders, including the nations defense minister Souleymane Doucore, sources told Africa News. UN, the African Union, and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) slammed Goita and Mali military forces for organizing an "attempted coup as they demanded the release of the PM and the President. Military leader Goita aide Baba Cisse has had widening popularity since he toppled the government of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita in a coup on August 18, last year. Both Ndaw and Ouanes leadership had been opposed by the M5-RFP political coalition. The interim government led by N'Daw and Ouane was formed in September.
Amid the withdrawal of US troops and NATO forces from Afghanistan, the Taliban on Wednesday warned neighbouring countries against allowing the United States to operate military bases on their soil, pursuant to media reports alleging that Pakistan has struck an agreement with Washington.

Citing Radio Free Afghanistan, Afghan Online Press amid speculation reported that the Taliban issued a warning in a statement that the Pentagon is eying potential bases in the region to combat insurgents after the scheduled pullout of troops of the US and NATO forces from Afghanistan by September 11 this year.

No American base on Pakistan soil

Sonny Leggett, a US military spokesman in Afghanistan, said that speculation of the United States is sought to erect military bases in Pakistan are "false", reported Afghan Online Press.

Earlier, addressing the Pakistani Senate on Tuesday, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan "will never allow any American base on its soil". In its statement, though without naming a neighbouring State, the Taliban urged other countries in the subcontinent to "not allow anyone to do so".

The insurgents stated, "If such a step is taken again, it will be a great and historic mistake and disgrace. We will not remain silent in the face of such heinous and provocative acts."

The US military is currently conducting retrograde operations to leave Afghanistan. US military personnel and equipment are scheduled to be shipped back by September 11 deadline. After 20 years of war, Biden's administration pledged to withdraw over 2,500 US cum NATO troops from Afghanistan. The US invasion of Afghanistan took place following the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001. The invasion was supported by close US allies

"Operation Enduring Freedom in U.S. military parlance denotes the invasion of Afghanistan. The US forces aimed to dismantle Al-Qaeda, further depriving it of a safe base of terror activities in Afghanistan and eliminating the Taliban control.

On the other hand, after recent Intra Afghan peace talks or the Extended Troika in Doha between the US and the Russian Federation, the Peoples Republic of China, and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan during the Extended Troika. The United States called on the Afghan Taliban to fulfil its counter-terrorism commitments and to ensure that no terrorist organisations use the Afghan soil to harm any other country.

Meanwhile, violence has intensified in Afghanistan since the United States missed a May 1 deadline, agreed with the Taliban last year, to withdraw all of its troops.
Dissident Belarusian journalist Roman Protasevich hit the headlines worldwide after the commercial flight FR4978 from Athens to Lithuania that he boarded was intercepted by the fighter jet MiG-29 and abruptly diverted to land in the Belarus capital Minsk. In the dramatic unfolding of the events, Protasevich was hounded and arrested after his Ryanair flight landed, along with his 23-year-old Russian girlfriend, Sofia Sapega. But what do we know about the 26-year-old critic of the government from the Eastern European nation, whose arrest was authorized by the Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko himself as he gave unequivocal order to Deputy Air Force Commander Andrei Gurtsevich for the detention?

Protasevich is editor-in-chief of an anti-government alternate media network that runs on the secure messaging app Telegram  known as Nexta [translates to someone in the Belarusian language]. Last year, Nexta led wide coverage of the unauthorized anti-government demonstrations in the capital city of Belarus against President Alexander Lukashenko and his administration. Hundreds of thousands of anti-Lukashenko demonstrators coalesced across the nation with unregistered symbols and placards demanding their embattled President steps down after he won the sixth term in the disputed elections.

While Lukashenko ordered the Police Department of Minsk City Executive Committee to launch a rigorous crackdown on the protesting mob, the protests swelled and scattered in more than 70 different regions of the capital making it harder for security forces to restore law and order as the mob expressed angst, gathered in large groups waving red-and-white flags, the symbol of the protest, chanting Lukashenko, go away!

[Credit: AP]

Viasna human rights center reported that hundreds of thousands were arbitrarily taken into detention as mass protests and violence gripped the ex-Soviet nation of 9.5 million people opposing the Aug. 9 presidential elections that handed Lukashenko a landslide victory over his widely popular opponent, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. Often referred to as Europes last dictator, Lukashenko added Protasevich's name to a list of "individuals involved in terrorist activity. This is because the encrypted Telegram channel Nexta that has over 1.3 million subscribers became a key source of information after internet services were "significantly disrupted" in the country, according to Online monitor NetBlocks.

'Secure transmission' of information, protests

Amid the heightened tensions as angry protesters flooded streets, wreaked destruction, and havoc demanding their longtime authoritarian leader Lukashenkos dismissal, Roman Potasetichs decentralized anonymous platform Nexta was conducting secure transmission of information. The good thing about Telegram is that it's the only platform that worked somehow, Nexta's Editor in chief, had at the time told reporters. He added, we actively advised our subscribers to use proxies, VPN, Tor, and other ways to bypass the total blockage of the internet, which continues in Belarus.

[Journalist Roman Protasevich. Credit: AP]

The armed police officers and security forces would stand and watch at the entrance to Protasevichs makeshift office in Warsaw, the capital of Poland. The office is Next founded by 22 years old Stepan Svetlov that had flared the protests against Lukashenkos 22 years of the solid regime. While the riot police and the protesters clashed on the streets amid the total internet blackout inside Belarus NEXTA, from Poland, was operating equipped with anti-censorship safeguards broadcasting violent crackdown by the Belarusian security forces on the civilians. ABC broadcasting corp., in a report disclosed, that the platform in fact posted calls for where protesters should gather as it aired coverage of police brutality that acted catalyst to the public fury and anger.

Protasevich's platform would guide the protests in real-time about the security forces' location and where to buy protective gears to escape the impact of stun grenades and rubber bullets. Nextas operation, as per the reports, was largely run by Belarusian exiles including journalist and activist Protasevich after they migrated to Telegram fearing YouTube censors. Since then, Protasevich had been a most wanted target. When Belarusian authorities this week learned of Protasevichs travel aboard the commercial Ryanair passenger plane from Greece to Lithuania, Belarus had decided to ground the plane and grab the organizer of the mass protests against the Belarusian regime.
Concerns are rising for Sofia Sapega, a Russian citizen who is the girlfriend of detained Belarus activist Roman Protasevich. The 23-year-old was also detained in Minsk along with Protasevich after a bomb scare on a Ryanair flight that was originally bound from Athens in Greece to Vilnius in Lithuania. Sapega recently appeared in a confession video in which she said that she was an editor of a Telegram messaging application channel that had promoted the personal data of Belarusian law enforcement personnel, which is a crime in the country.

According to BBC, Sapegas mother cast doubt on her daughters freedom while the released video was recorded. In a statement, she said about her daughter, She sways, eyes in the sky - as if afraid of forgetting something...I enlarged [the video] as much as possible - it seems that [she looks] okay. The mother added, We are now packing warm clothes, we will go to Minsk. I want to try to give her a parcel - I saw she only had a thin jacket.

Who is Sofia Sapega?

Sapega is a Russian citizen who lives in Vilnius, Lithuania. She is a student at the European Humanities University (EHU) in the Faculty of International Law and European Union Law program. EHU has demanded Sapegas release. It said that she had been detained in Minsk on groundless and made-up conditions while flying back to continue her Masters thesis.

EHU in a statement had said, Sofia's group mates and faculty members say that the student is well regarded due to her academic performance and reputation in EHU's community.

Sapega had been vacationing with Protasevich in Greece before they were detained. The couple had been on a holiday and had known each other for around six months after meeting in a bar. A friend of the 23-year-old told The Sun that Sapega is very sympathetic, friendly and courteous.

Sapegas confession video

Meanwhile, in a fast and uncomfortable manner, the 23-year-old Russian national made the so-called confession in the released video. Her lawyer also told a Russian media outlet without giving further details that Today Sofia was interrogated. She was accused of committing a criminal offence. A preventive measure was chosen  detention for a period of two months...The lawyers have signed non-disclosure agreements. presently, she is in a Belarusian intelligence services pre-trial detention centre in Minsk.

Sapega said in her video appearance, I am Sapega Sofia Andreevna, I was born on 10 February 1998. I am a citizen of the Russian Federation, I live in Lithuania  Vilnius...On 23 May 2021, I flew on the same plane with Roman Protasevich. I am also editor of Telegram channel Chernaya Kniga which publishes private information about internal affairs officers.

I am shocked. They keep Raman's girlfriend Sofia a hostage. She is held in prison, her lawyer is in touch with her. She is guilty of being a friend of Roman. And they forced her to confess to "crimes" she did not commit. Raman and Sofia must be released immediately. pic.twitter.com/5OiSBkgzEZ  Franak Viacorka (@franakviacorka) May 25, 2021

(Image: Twitter/AP)
Three giant river otter pups have been born in Argentina, much to the delight of conservationists working to try and save the species.

The particular breed of otter, formally known as Pteronura brasiliensis, was a species that was believed to be extinct.

However thanks to a rewilding program 'Rewilding Argentina,' the pups have survived the first week of life, the most critical phase.

The program marks the first attempt to return the giant river otter to a habitat in the Ibera wetlands of Northeast Argentina, one of South America's largest and most important watersheds.

Endangered globally, the giant river otter has not been seen for over 30 years in Argentina, where illegal hunting and habitat loss led to its decline.

The closest known population of the species is some 1000 kilometers away in Paraguay.

The giant otter is the world's largest otter, a top aquatic predator, that can measure up to 1.8 meters and weigh 33 kilos.

The program is reintroducing nine other species to the wetlands, including the jaguar, the top terrestrial predator, and the red-and-green macaw.

Ibera National Park was created in 2018 with land donations made by Douglas and Kristine Tompkins via Tompkins Conservation, in collaboration with Rewilding Argentina and local and national authorities.

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on May 26 said that his country and Egypt are working together to reinforce a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militants. Blinken visited Cairo and Amman on Wednesday on a regional tour. He met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi and conveyed US president Joe Bidens appreciation for Egypts critical mediation efforts in support of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and other groups in Gaza and for Egypts help in evacuating American citizens to safety.

According to a press release, Blinken affirmed the strong strategic partnership between the United States and Egypt and President Bidens commitment to this relationship.

He said that the two countries were now working closely together build something positive, adding that Egypt was vital to shared aspirations for Palestinians and Israelis to "live in safety and security to enjoy equal measures of freedom, opportunity and dignity".

US urgent support for Palestinians

Blinken had arrived in Egypt after stops in Jerusalem and Ramallah before flying on to Jordan. He has already pledged that the US would provide new aid to help rebuild the Gaza strip, including $5.5 million in disaster relief and nearly $33 million for the UN Palestinian aid agency there. Blinken has also said that the US intended to ensure that Hamas, which controls Gaza and is listed by Washington as a terrorist organisation, did not benefit from humanitarian aid.

Moreover, the top US official even announced the reopening of the US Consulate General in Jerusalem, which can be seen as a move that restores ties with the Palestinians that had been downgraded by the Trump administration. Blinken said that this is an important way for his country to engage with and provide support to the Palestinian people. The consulate long served as an autonomous office in charge of diplomatic relations with the Palestinians. However, former President Donald Trump downgraded its operations and placed them under the authority of his ambassador to Israel when he moved the embassy to Jerusalem.

Blinken praises Egypts efforts in Libya

Meanwhile, in Cairo, Blinken reiterated the United States commitment to Egypts water security and to the urgent resumption of substantive and results-oriented negotiations under the leadership of the African Union to resolve the dispute over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). As per the press note, he praised Egypt for its efforts on Libya and noted our mutual support for the Government of Iraq. he even stressed the importance of human rights, and the two leaders agreed to engage in a constructive dialogue.

(Image: AP)


An employee opened fire at a California rail yard killing eight people before taking his own life on Wednesday. The shooting took place around 6:30 a.m. in two buildings at a light rail facility for the Valley Transportation Authority. California Governor Gavin Newsom visited San Jose and met Labour and law enforcement leaders in San Jose. While addressing media, Governor Gavin Newsom raised concern at the frequency and regularity of gun violence in America.

Newsom concerned over gun violence cases

Newsom condemned the rinse and repeat cycle of mass shootings in America about the killing of eight people at a rail yard in San Jose. He said, "What the hell's going on in the United States of America? What the hell's wrong with us? And when are we going to come to grips with this? When are going to put down our arms, literally and figuratively?". He said that this happens over and over and over again. "Rinse and repeat, rinse and repeat," adding that, "there's a numbness I imagine some of us are feeling". He added, "Wake up to this reality and take a little damn responsibility, all of us...Move beyond the platitudes and the usual rhetoric that tends to mark not just these moments, but the aftermath of these moments."

In his statement, Newsom grieved the loss of victims in another horrific act of gun violence. He said that the root causes of such kinds of activities should be addressed. He further added that his administration will work closely with local and state law enforcement to monitor the situation. Prior to addressing the media, Newsom spent time with victims and their families.

"We join San Jose and the labour community in grieving the victims of yet another horrific act of gun violence today. Jennifer and I send our heartfelt condolences to their friends and families and to all who have been impacted by this tragedy." "We are resolved to bring meaning to this tragic moment with real action to curb the gun violence crisis in our country. We must address the root causes of these devastating acts at every level of government."

IMAGE: AP
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reports that the vessel was denied entry into Hazira Port in India and Hamad Port in Qatar are incorrect.

The crew member who was transferred to a special facility in a military hospital after testing positive for Covid-19 remains asymptomatic and is recovering from a leg injury sustained during his evacuation from the vessel, X-Press Feeders admitted in a press statement.

While denying the allegation, the Shiping company clarified, "reports that the vessel was denied entry into Hazira Port in India and Hamad Port in Qatar are incorrect. The ship underwent discharge and loading operations in both ports before continuing on its planned journey to Colombo. Applications had been made to both ports to offload a container that was leaking nitric acid, but the advice given was there were no specialist facilities or expertise immediately available to deal with the leaking acid."

Full statement reads as follows;

X-Press Feeders, operators of the container ship 'X-Press Pearl' can confirm that firefighting operations to extinguish the blaze aboard the vessel have continued through today despite the ongoing adverse weather conditions.

Firefighting tugs have constantly been spraying and misting the stricken vessel with support from the Sri Lankan Navy and Indian coastguard, who remain on scene. The ship remains at anchor off Colombo port.

The crew member who was transferred to a special facility in a military hospital after testing positive for Covid-19 remains asymptomatic and is recovering from a leg injury sustained during his evacuation from the vessel. A second injured crew member continues to recover from his injuries in a local hospital. All other crew members who remain in a Colombo quarantine facility are in good health and are in contact with their families.

Please note, reports that the vessel was denied entry into Hazira Port in India and Hamad Port in Qatar are incorrect. The ship underwent discharge and loading operations in both ports before continuing on its planned journey to Colombo. Applications had been made to both ports to offload a container that was leaking nitric acid, but the advice given was there were no specialist facilities or expertise immediately available to deal with the leaking acid.
Apologize Fast When China is Furious

Actor and former professional wrestling champion John Cena posted a video message on social media in which he apologized in Chinese for his "mistake" in describing the self-governing democratic island of Taiwan, over which China claims sovereignty, as a country while promoting the latest "Fast and Furious" film. The 17-time WWE professional wrestling champion was the latest Westerner to trigger China's nationalistic population and prickly government, which uses the lure of its huge market as a weapon to get its way on unrelated political issues.
Rights groups call for early releases of prisoners nearing the end of their sentences to help slow the spread of the disease.

The latest in a series of COVID-19 outbreaks in Cambodias detention centers has infected more than 100 inmates and three guards in Kandal province, officials said Wednesday, prompting calls for authorities to reduce prison overcrowding in a bid to prevent further spread of the disease.

Kandal provincial deputy governor Nouv Peng Chandara told local newspapers that authorities are working to trace the source of the infections, but that no plan has been made to evacuate prisoners.

Prisons now require a 20-day quarantine period and three negative COVID tests before incoming prisoners can be brought into the general prison population, General Prison Department spokesperson Nuth Savana told RFA on Wednesday.

[Quarantines] will also be required for prisoners who are taken to hospitals or court trials, with inmates kept isolated from others for 20 days after their return, Nuth Savana said.

Fifty cases of COVID infection have already been reported in Phnom Penhs notorious Prey Sar Prison, Cambodian sources say.

Speaking to RFAs Khmer Service, Chan Tunfather of jailed opposition Cambodian National Rescue Party (CNRP) activist Tun Nimolcalled on the courts to release his son and other political prisoners held at Prey Sar to guard them from infection. He said that his sons continued incarceration during the pandemic could amount to a death sentence.

Our country doesnt have a death penalty, and I dont know who will be responsible for protecting my sons life if he is still detained during this outbreak, Chan Tun said.

Am Sam Ath of the Cambodian rights group Licadho said more outbreaks may still occur in the countrys overcrowded prisons, and called on the Prison Department to release some prisoners serving shorter sentences.

We need to speed up these releases, he said, adding, Some sentences could be suspended or even ended now for prisoners who have almost served their full time.

'Government must move faster'

The government needs to move much faster if they want to prevent what might become an uncontrollable outbreak in the prisons, said Human Rights Watch Deputy Asia Director Phil Robertson in a joint statement with rights group Amnesty International on May 24.

Responding to positive cases of infection in the prisons with more testing and vaccinations is simply not enough, Robertson said. Everyone saw a potential outbreak coming, and measures to prevent or mitigate its impact on prisoners should have been implemented long ago by the Cambodian government.

On May 8, the Department of Prisons reported that 34 prisoners held in Preah Sihanouk Provincial Prison had tested positive for COVID-19, with hundreds of other prisoners in the facility testing positive since then, Robertson said.

Authorities later transferred 146 women detainees and 10 children from Preah Sihanouk to the Kampot Provincial Prison, Robertson said, adding that cases of infection in the Phnom Penh Jail in Cambodias capital are now believed to number in the hundreds.

To date, a total of 190 COVID-19 patients have died in Cambodia, with 26,989 infections reported, the Ministry of Health said on May 26.

Vietnam sees 45th COVID death

Vietnam on Wednesday reported its 45th COVID-19 death, the 10th death recorded since the countrys fourth outbreak began on April 27, the Ministry of Health said.

The patient, a 67-year-old woman from northern Vietnams Bac Ninh province described as suffering from underlying conditions including high blood pressure and diabetes was hospitalized on May 11 and died late on May 25.

A total of 3,027 cases of local transmission have now been reported in Vietnam since April 27, with the northern province of Bac Giang leading the list with 1,520 cases and Bac Ninh coming in second with 624 cases.

Both provinces will be given 150,000 doses of vaccine each and helped to complete mass vaccination campaigns within one or two weeks, Vietnams Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said following an online meeting with provincial leaders and representatives from Vietnams National Steering Committee on COVID Prevention and Control.

On Wednesday, eight pilot enterprises in four industrial parks in Bac Giang that had closed on May 18 were allowed to reopen, though they are now operating at limited capacity and under restrictions.

By May 25, Vietnam more than one million health workers, police officers, and military personnel had received at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine, 28,500 of whom had also received their second and final dose, according to official figures.

Laos sees more lockdowns

In Laos, the total number of COVID-19 cases has risen to 1,883, with 620 people being treated at hospitals around the country, according to Sisavath SoutthanylaxayDeputy Director General of the Communicable Disease Control Department of the Lao Ministry of Health.

Only five new cases were reported on Wednesday, but areas under lockdown called red zones continued to expand, with 28 villagesup from an initial fivenow locked down in the capital Vientiane.

Areas of Oudomxay province are also locking down after seven new cases were recently reported there, official sources said.

Speaking to RFA on Wednesday, a member of the Taskforce Committee for COVID-19 Prevention and Control in Oudomxay said, Yesterday, seven people were tested positive for COVID-19, so today the entire town of Xaythe capital of the provinceis under lockdown.

No traveling in or out is allowed, and police have closed all the roads leading to and from the town, RFAs source said, adding that three provincial villages have also been closed.

Our village is under lockdown, a resident in one village confirmed. No one is going in or out except to buy groceries or go to the hospital.

More workers laid off

At least 50,000 workers have been laid off in Laos during the countrys second outbreak of cases beginning in early April, with up to 10,000 handed pink slips at 11 garment factories and two steel plants in the capital Vientiane alone, according to the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare.

Those who are not members of the Social Security Fund will not be eligible for unemployment benefits, the official added, referring to a national plan paid into by participants but often not joined by workers in small businesses like restaurants and hotels.

Ive been laid off for about a year now and am not receiving any assistance, one former worker at a small factory in Vientiane told RFA on Wednesday. My family is living on savings, but these are about to run out because food prices are rising too, he said.

Also speaking to RFA, a hotel owner in the capital confirmed that hotels receive no government help.

The government only suspends tax payments for three months, and our hotel then pays salaries to laid-off workers for three months. After that, theyre on their own, he said.

Reported by RFAs Khmer, Vietnamese, and Lao Services. Translated by Samean Yun, Anna Vu, and Max Avary. Written in English by Richard Finney.
Patients sickened from drinking altered rice wine lie on beds at a hospital in Kratie province, Cambodia, May 6, 2018.

A court in Cambodias Kampot province is set to question three people accused of producing adulterated rice wine that killed 10 people and sickened 50 others, bringing the countrys death toll from alcohol-related poisoning to two dozen over the past two weeks.

Kampot Provincial Police Chief Mao Chanmathurith told RFAs Khmer Service that one of the suspects to appear in court on Thursday allegedly bought white rice wine, planning to mix it with traditional herbs to increase its potency before reselling it, but mistakenly raised the drinks methanol content to levels that could lead to blindness or death.

The police chief said that the two other defendants in the case are the wines distiller and a person who helped to sell it after it was altered. All three have been charged with unintentional homicide under Article 207 of Cambodias Penal Code and face up to three years in prison and a fine of up to six million riel (U.S. $1,480) if convicted.

Yun Phally, Kampot provincial coordinator for rights group Adhoc, told RFAs Khmer Service that the police need to bring everyone involved in the scheme to justice to prevent further poisoning incidents.

I received information that the police have not ordered all relevant parties for questioning, he said. They should also question the wines distributors.

The 10 deaths from alcohol poisoning in Kampot were among 12 announced by Health Ministry officials on Wednesday and 24 throughout the country in just the past two weeks.

On May 23, the Kandal Provincial Court charged 13 people with aggravating circumstance of the unfair act with respect to the goods or services or misleading representation due to disability or death after they allegedly produced an adulterated wine that killed 12 people. The suspects are in pre-trial detention and, if convicted, face up to five years in prison and fines of up to 10 million riel (U.S. $2,460).

Police pose with 13 people facing charges related to the alcohol poisoning death of a dozen people in Kandal province, May 23, 2021. Kandal Provincial Police Department Facebook page Call for vigilance

According to a Ministry of Health report dated May 25, the poisoned wine in both Kampot and Kandal contained levels of methanol that exceeded 5.1 percent, the amount deemed safe for human consumption. In both cases, victims had consumed the toxic wine while gathering at local funerals.

The Ministry of Health has found that the deaths in Kampot and Kandal provinces were the result of victims consuming rice wine that contained high levels of methanol, the statement said.

The statement also contained a warning from Minister of Health Mam Bunheng, urging people to stop consuming homemade rice wine.

The authorities must be vigilant and prevent people from brewing or selling wine without proper standards and inspection, the minister said.

Businesses are not allowed to mix methanol with white rice wine, which can lead to poisoning and death.

Anyone who becomes ill after drinking rice wine should immediately seek medical attention, the statement added.

Education needed

Ouch Vuth, head of Cambodias Virtuous Doctor Association, recently told RFA that the ingredients being used to alter rice wine are increasingly being imported into the country from China and neighboring Vietnam, and that local distillers have not been educated on how to properly use them.

He called on authorities to inspect every distiller throughout Cambodia to ensure that they comply with safety regulations or risk more deaths.

Officials are being careless and are pointing fingers at one another, he said. They dont know their own roles and responsibilities. We need to be educating distillers to ensure their products are safe, but they arent doing it.

Rice wine is regularly shared at social gatherings such as weddings, meetings, and funerals in Cambodias rural areas. It is cheap and easily obtainable because it can be brewed from fermented cooked rice.

Last year, at least 15 people died, and dozens were sickened after drinking poisoned rice wine in Kampong Chhnang, Mondulkiri, and Banteay Meanchey provinces, while eight people in Kratie province died from similar causes in 2018.

Reported by RFAs Khmer Service. Translated by Samean Yun. Written in English by Joshua Lipes.
Authorities in Dubai have released a Chinese national who fled his home country after questioning official media reports of border clashes between Chinese and Indian soldiers, only to be arrested while transiting the United Arab Emirates airport.



Wang Jingyu, who holds permanent residency in the United States, was arrested by United Arab Emirates police on , en route to Istanbul.



Wang, 19, sent out a message on calling on the international community for help after he was detained by Dubai police while transiting the country on his way out of China.



The State Department later called his arrest "a human rights concern," as U.S.-based activists made representations to U.S. officials in a bid to stave off his forcible repatriation to China.



Wang was freed and dumped aboard an onward flight to Istanbul in a single outfit of clothing and flip-flops, holding nothing but his phone and a passport, just hours after The Associated Press began asking questions about his case, the agency reported on .



We remain alarmed by human rights violations and abuses in China and call on (Chinese) authorities to respect the fundamental freedoms to which their citizens are entitled consistent with Chinas international obligations and commitments, the AP quoted the State Department as saying.



He spoke to RFA's Mandarin Service from a police-run detention center in the United Arab Emirates city, where he could be facing a forced return to China.



"It was shortly after I got off the plane in Dubai. I was just about to head to the transit security check area, when I was suddenly stopped at the gate for no apparent reason," Wang said.



'Trumped up' charges

Wang was initially held on suspicion of "insulting a recognized monotheistic religion" in connection with comments he was said to have left on the website of a hotel in the Gulf state a year earlier.



Wang was told that the local prosecutors decided on not to proceed with those charges.



"The allegations against me were trumped up," Wang said in an interview with RFA earlier this month.



Wang said he suspected that the Chinese government may be behind his detention, and that the criminal case could be being used as a pretext to force him to return to China.



"They came to visit three times following my arrest, the first time from the Chinese embassy in Abu Dhabi, and the second two visits from the Chinese Consulate in Dubai.



"They asked me to sign some documents and said I could avoid going to jail," Wang said, adding that he had refused to sign, because the documents were in Arabic, which he doesn't read.



Emails inquiring about Wang's case received no reply from the Chinese Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Chinese Consulate-General in Dubai at the time of his RFA interview.



But the UAE government source said there is no written record of Chinese embassy personnel going to the detention center to talk to Wang Jingyu.



Rendition dangers in Dubai

Bob Fu, president of the U.S.-based Christian rights group ChinaAid, said his group had helped to focus minds in Washington on Wang's plight.



"We immediately contacted high-ranking officials in the White House National Security Council," Fu told RFA. "Also certain officials in several sections of the State Department."



New York-based political affairs commentator Ma Ju, who has lived in Dubai, said there are established precedents for the CCP to ensure the rendition of its nationals from the UAE.



"There is a Chinese police station based in the UAE now," Ma said. "They claim that they are there to investigate economic crime, but their real job is to intimidate and arrest [Chinese] dissidents."



He cited the cases of dozens of Turkic Uyghurs who had been arrested and forcibly repatriated by Chinese police from Dubai and Abu Dhabi in recent years.



Wang was detained in absentia by police in his hometown, the southwestern Chinese city of Chongqing, after he cast doubts of state media reporting after thousands of Indian and Chinese troops faced off in at three or four locations in the western Himalayas after Beijings forces intruded into Indian territory, according to Indian security officials and local media.



But China denied breaching the LAC near the Galwan River in Indias snowy and mountainous Ladakh region.



Indian and Chinese troops later disengaged from the southern and northern banks of Pangong Lake, in an operation begun on Feb. 10, 2021.



An official source in Chongqing implied that China expects its extradition partners -- of which the UAE is one -- to arrest people transiting through their airports.



"Don't ask me about this; it's too sensitive," the source said. "But he was taken into custody ... go check whether there is an extradition treaty between China and the UAE."



An employee who answered the phone at the Chongqing municipal state security police command center declined to command when contacted by RFA on .



"What does Chongqing have to do with the UAE? We're not a diplomatic department," the employee said, before demanding to see press accreditation and declining to comment further.



Reported by Wang Yun and Qiao Long for RFA's Mandarin Service, and by the Cantonese Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
Activists participate in a candlelit remembrance in Victoria Park in Hong Kong on June 4, 2020, after an annual vigil that traditionally takes place in the park to mark the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown was banned on public health grounds because of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

Authorities in Hong Kong have once more banned a candlelight vigil marking the 1989 Tiananmen massacre that was held once annually over three decades, citing coronavirus pandemic restrictions on public gatherings.



Police said the city remains on "emergency" alert level for COVID-19, saying that allowing people to gather in Victoria Park on to mourn those killed by the People's Liberation Army (PLA)'s tanks and machine guns could result in a surge in new cases.



Meanwhile, secretary for security John Lee warned that anyone gathering in Victoria Park on would be breaking the law, and possibly in breach of a draconian national security law imposed on the city by the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP).



"When the Commissioner of Police has made a decision to ban an activity, then it will become an unauthorized assembly, and it will be illegal to take part," Lee said.



"Taking part in illegal gatherings can result in a prison sentence of up to five years," Lee said. "Any attempt to defy the law, whether it be in the form of restrictions on public gatherings or in breach of the national security law, will be dealt with severely."



The vigil organizers, the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China, had earlier called on the authorities to allow the vigil to go ahead, promising to adhere to strict social distancing measures.



Last month, a Hong Kong court handed down jail terms to jailed democracy activist Joshua Wong and three opposition members of the city's District Council for attending last year's vigil, which was socially distanced, but which took place in defiance of a similar ban.



Wong was sentenced to 10 months' imprisonment, while district councilor Lester Shum was jailed for six months. Fellow councilors Tiffany Yuen and Jannelle Leung were each handed four-month sentence.



National security law snuffs out opposition

Several veteran Alliance committee members also recently pleaded guilty to "illegal assembly" charges.



The group has been actively involved with organizing annual vigils marking the , 1989 bloodshed, as well as running a museum dedicated to the mass, student-led democracy movement that saw hundreds of thousands occupy Tiananmen Square in the weeks leading up to the massacre.



It has warned that such charges are increasingly being brought against pro-democracy politicians and peaceful activists in Hong Kong's courts since the 2019 protest movement.



The ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has presided over a city-wide crackdown on peaceful protest and political opposition since imposing a draconian national security law on Hong Kong from , 2020.



The law, which saw China's feared state security police set up a headquarters in Hong Kong to oversee "serious" cases, has been widely criticized by governments, rights groups, and lawyers as an assault on Hong Kong's traditional freedoms of speech, association, and political participation.



In December, 27 opposition politicians and democracy activists were arrested for "subversion" under the law after they held a democratic primary designed to maximize their chances of winning seats in the Legislative Council (LegCo).



The authorities responded by postponing the election and arresting those who took part in the primary.

Macau, a former Portuguese colony and also a semi-autonomous Chinese city granted select freedoms not allowed on the mainland, announced on Wednesday it had banned a vigil marking the Tiananmen crackdown.

Macau, a gambling enclave to Hong Kong's west, has never experienced the democracy protests that have erupted in Hong Kong over the years.

Reported by Chan Yun Nam for RFA's Cantonese Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
Doctors in the democratic island of Taiwan have warned that hospitals in the capital are already overwhelmed by the rapid growth in COVID-19 cases, as the country's government scrambles to procure jabs for an under-vaccinated population.



Taiwan, once seen as a haven of normalcy amid the pandemic, is now facing a rapid rise in community-transmitted cases, with the island already under level 3 restrictions affecting businesses, schools and masking requirements in a bid to contain the spread of the virus.



Now, the area around the capital Taipei is facing a shortage of isolation ward and intensive care unit (ICU) staff, a medical doctors' union warned on its Facebook page on .



"The coronavirus situation in the greater Taipei area continues to worsen, with an acute shortage of isolation beds and wards, as well as the [specialized] staff to run them," the Taipei Doctors' Union said.



"If this isn't breaking point for the healthcare system, then we don't know what is," the statement said.

'Extreme shortage of wards'

The doctors called on the government to stop reassuring people, saying that doctors and other healthcare workers are already being transferred from other disciplines to aid the COVID-19 effort.



"Due to an extreme shortage of wards and the rapid progress of the virus, we are pretty much at the end of our capacity when it comes to negative pressure isolation wards," it said. "Isolation ward capacity is also threatened."



"Right now, general hospital wards are being used as ICUs in Taipei, with intubation, resuscitation and diagnosis taking place in emergency rooms," it said.



"We are also concerned about whether hospitals are safe enough to avoid infections among healthcare staff," the doctors' union said, warning that doctors could soon be forced to start allocating scarce resources like ventilators based on ethically dubious principles like age, or "first come, first served."



It also called for emergency temporary accommodation for medical staff, who could then avoid transmitting the coronavirus to vulnerable people in their own homes.



Chen Shih-chung of Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center, said the authorities are working to divert ambulances from "hot zones" to less busy hospitals.



"Everyone has worked really hard," he said in response to reports that National Taiwan University hospital was currently under huge pressure.



"Patients need to be diverted and ambulance deliveries should be appropriately divided [between hospitals] so we can respond more effectively," Chen told a news conference in Taipei on .



Vaccine hesitancy

Community transmission has skyrocketed in Taiwan at a time when only 1.3 percent of the population has received a single dose of COVID-19 vaccine.



Taiwan has secured less than one million doses of vaccines for its 24 million citizens, receiving 726,000 doses of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine via the COVAX sharing scheme and directly from the manufacturer.



However, a poll by the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy in April showed that less than one third of people were willing to take it.



The warnings from doctors come after President Tsai Ing-wen accused China of blocking its attempts to sign a deal for the supply of vaccines from BioNTech of Germany.



"We had almost completed the contract signing with the German manufacturer at one point, but it has been delayed till now because China has interfered," Tsai told a meeting of her ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) on .



Chen Shih-chung of Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center, told reporters on that the BioNTech deal collapsed after the company introduced a requirement that Taiwan drop the use of the word "country" to describe itself, a requirement likely linked to political pressure from China.



China's Taiwan Affairs Office says it has repeatedly offered to help Taiwan by supplying its own vaccines, but the government appears reluctant to take up the offer amid public concerns over the safety and effectiveness of Chinese-made medicines.



Tsai has previously said that Taiwan will only do deals directly with manufacturers, in order to ensure quality control.



Taiwan, which has never been ruled by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) nor formed part of the People's Republic of China, was denied a seat at the World Health Assembly on after China and its allies voted down the proposal to reinstate it.



China insists that its territorial claim on Taiwan prevent any of its diplomatic partners from having diplomatic relations with Taipei, as well as precluding its membership in international organizations.



Reported by Hwang Chun-mei for RFA's Mandarin Service, and by Chung Kuang-cheng for the Cantonese Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
Junta and anti-junta forces blame each other for attacks on schools and hospitals.

This handout from the Myanmar News Agency taken on May 5, 2021 and received on May 10, 2021 shows debris in a gym, after an explosion in which mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Phoe Thaw was injured, in Yangon.

Four months after the Feb. 1 military takeover, cities across Myanmar have been rocked by more than 300 bomb blasts, and the ruling junta and its opponents are trading blame over the explosions and the rising death toll, sources in the country say.

Bomb blasts can be heard daily in Yangon, the commercial center and former capital, as fighting between the juntas security forces and those opposed to military rule intensifies across the country of 54 million people.

According to RFA records, most of the explosive attacks, which include the use of hand grenades and parcel bombs, were targeting areas connected to the military junta, such as police and administrative offices.

At the moment, the explosions are happening mostly at the offices of the ward administration councils appointed by the junta. But there are also explosions in schools and universities, as well as one today at an electric power office, Zeyar Lwin, a Yangon resident told RFAs Myanmar Service Wednesday.

On Monday, an explosion went off in Kalemyo townships No. 6 High School in the northwestern Sagaing region.

A Kalemyo resident who requested anonymity told RFA that he believes that the police stationed in the school were behind the attack.

Ordinary people cant get into those places Its not easy. We think they blew up the bomb themselves, so they have an excuse to go around firing guns randomly to intimidate residents, the resident said.

Records from RFA and an international security firm show that in March and April there were 171 improvised mine attacks, and 140 more in the first three weeks of May.

Experts believe that both sides of the conflict appear responsible for the attacks.

First there was the brutal crackdown on peaceful protesters... as well as arrests and detentions which have caused the peoples resentment. People began talking about a need to retaliate for self-defense and revenge. But the other side wants to be in control and keep a grip on power, Sai Kyi Zin Soe, a political and human rights researcher, told RFA.

Both sides could have started the fire. So no one can say for sure which side is responsible for each attack, he said.

The junta claims that the bombings are all carried out by protesters to incite fear and instability.

As the number of street protesters has dropped, their stand became weaker and so now we see arson and bombings in public places. This is causing public concern and unrest, the juntas Deputy Information Minister Maj Gen Zaw Min Tun told RFA.

He said that between the coup and May 12, 63 people have been killed in bombings, which he described as cowardly.

The junta spokesman also blamed 57 arson and improvised mine attacks on schools and education offices nationwide over the past two months on the shadow National Unity Government (NUG) made up of lawmakers ousted by the coup, and the closely related Committee Representing the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw (CRPH) a government in exile.

But the NUG has denied involvement.

We cannot say whose hand it is. One think we can say is that it is not the work of the Peoples Defense Force [PDF] which we are building. Myanmars people, as well as the international community, know who is behind all this, the NUGs Minister of Defense Ye Mon told RFA.

Experts told RFA that attacks on schools and hospitals could cause international opinion to sour on those resisting junta rule.

It is possible that the military might be able to prove they are in the right, saying they are upholding the rule of law, because from the international point of view, these kinds of bombings could be labeled as terrorist attacks, political observer Sai Tun Aung Lwin told RFA.

So far the world is sympathetic to the people because so many peaceful protesters have died. But that can quickly change if more deaths occur due to acts of terrorism, he said.

The Thailand-based rights group Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) said that as of Wednesday, at least 827 people have been killed by the junta, and 4313 are in detention.

UN Special Rapporteur Christine Burgener said on May 24 that a civil war could erupt in Myanmar if anti-coup protesters change their defensive position to an offensive one as the junta escalates violent acts.

Certain statistics in this report were provided by an EU-based security company with a presence in Myanmar. The company requested anonymity for security reasons.

Reported by RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Khin Maung Nyane. Written in English by Eugene Whong.
More than 40,000 people have been displaced by intense fighting between military and local militia.

A soldier (R) carries a sniper rifle during a demonstration against the military coup where security forces fired on protesters in Mandalay on February 20, 2021.

Military snipers in Myanmars eastern Kayah state shot and killed three people and wounded another Wednesday as the junta attacked the states recently formed militia and retook police strongholds in Loikaw district in the states northwest.

Nearly four months after the military ousted the countrys democratically elected government on Feb. 1 and began a brutal crackdown on mass protests that has killed more than 800 civilians, the angry residents in Kayah state organized into the Karenni Peoples Defense Force (KPDF).

Fighting between the KPDF and the juntas security forces began on May 22, in Demoso township, when the KPDF killed three police officers and occupied security posts in the region. Aid groups estimate that some 40,000 people have been displaced by the violence over the past five days.

RFA reported that the KPDF took control of Demoso's police station and successfully defended it Tuesday after a firefight that ended with a government tank destroyed and five junta soldiers killed.

Since then, the majority of Demoso's residents have fled to other areas and the junta has increased its troop presence by about 1,000, according to a report by local outlet Myanmar Now.

On Wednesday, military snipers fired at anyone daring to walk along the towns streets, sources in Demoso told RFAs Myanmar Service.

They were shooting at everyone they saw near the Irrigation Department and along Ngwe Taung Reservoir Roand and Demoso Junction. This morning, four people set out on motorcycles to flee to the west. Three were killed by sniper fire and one was injured, a resident who requested anonymity for security reasons told RFA.

Demoso is under strict military lockdown, with soldiers blocking roads and telephone lines cut in some areas.

Meanwhile, the KPDF attacked a police post in Loilem township on the border between Shan and Kayah states Wednesday morning, but were unable to overrun the encampment.

It started around four in the morning and ended around five oclock. There were no casualties, a KPDF member who declined to be named told RFA.

We were unable to seize the post. We had to retreat as they were using heavy weaponry against us and we didnt have enough manpower, the KPDF member said.

The encampment is located on a major road between Shan and Kayah States, and the KPDF was trying to disrupt the supplies and reinforcements from entering Kayah, according to the KPDF member.

Soldiers told RFA that the juntas Home Minister Lt. Gen. Soe Htut is visiting the area, which includes Shan states Moebye and Kayahs Demoso, and is expected to inspect police stations, which have been targets of the KPDF in recent days.

The police posts in Moebye, Demoso, and Loikaw townships have been under attack. Several police were killed in the raids in Moebye and Demoso, a KPDF member told RFA.

I think he came to see the situation for himself. We attack where we think we can win. There arent only police at the stations, but soldiers as well. Our men are not very experienced, so we are focusing on the weakest areas, he said.

State media reported Tuesday that the home minister met with the families of policemen and soldiers of the battalion stationed in Moebye, handing out cash rewards sent by coup leader Min Aung Hlaing.

The report also said he visited a military encampment and a police station in Hpekon but did not mention casualties or fighting in the areas he visited.

Around 40,000 people or 80 percent of the population in western Loikaw have fled the area as fighting has intensified, an aid worker told RFA. They are taking shelter in religious halls and schools near the Kayah-Shan border. The two states border northeastern Thailand.

The remaining 20 percent are just men guarding their own villages. At the moment we have stockpiles of food, and we are feeding refugees with that, but what we really need right now is medicine, mosquito nets and tarpaulins, the aid worker said.

Other aid workers said that they could run out of food in a week if the fighting continues and numbers of refugees swell. A refugee camp in Pekin Kawku village, 10 miles from Demoso, received 800 people on Tuesday alone.

RFA attempted to contact the juntas Deputy Information Minister Gen. Zaw Min Tun for comment, but calls went unanswered.

In Chin state on the western side of Myanmar near the border with India, tens of thousands of refugees are also hunkered down in hot jungle terrain after intense fighting in mid-May in which the local Chinland Defense Force militia killed some 100 regime troops before receding to the forests to avoid a junta onslaught.

One week after the occupation by junta troops, the residents of Mindat are living without electricity, food or water supplies as soldiers have deliberately cut off essential services and restrict movement in and out of the town, said the Chin Human Rights Organization in a Facebook post. Mindat, at the center of fighting, was occupied by the army last week.

Concern is growing about the health and well-being of the mostly elderly and child and female populations who have been left unable to flee the town, as the junta soldiers seem intent on starving them to death as a punishment for one of the most formidable civil resistance movements in the country, the group said.

The Thailand-based rights group Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) said that as of Wednesday, at least 827 people have been killed by the junta, and 4313 are in detention.

Reported by RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Khin Maung Nyane. Written in English by Eugene Whong.
The ultimate goal is the repatriation of the Rohingya to their homeland, said Volkan Bozkir, who traveled to Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh.

Volkan Bozkir, president of the UN General Assembly, waves to Rohingya teenagers at a refugee camp in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, May 26, 2021.

The world has not forgotten the hundreds of thousands of Rohingya sheltering in Bangladesh after fleeing unimaginable horrors in Myanmar, the president of the U.N. General Assembly said Wednesday as he visited refugee camps in the South Asian country.

Still, the ultimate goal is the repatriation of the Rohingya to their homeland, said General Assembly President Volkan Bozkir, who traveled to southeastern Coxs Bazar district, where almost 1 million Rohingya refugees are sheltering.

The General Assembly has not forgotten about the Rohingya people, Bozkir said via Twitter after meeting with refugees at camps in Coxs Bazar.

Right now, there is no defined path for the future, for a permanent home. Voluntary, dignified and safe return is the ultimate goal.  I assure you, the United Nations General Assembly is determined to ensure a better future for the Rohingya people.

In 2018, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was the last senior U.N. official to visit the sprawling camps along Bangladeshs border with Myanmars Rakhine state.

On the second day of his two-day trip to Bangladesh, Bozkir met with 40 Rohingya leaders, Mohammad Shamsuddoha, an official with Bangladeshs Refugee, Relief and Repatriation Commissioners office, told BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service.

The Rohingya urged Bozkir to put pressure on Myanmar to grant them citizenship so they can return safely to their homes in Rakhine state, from where they fled after a brutal crackdown by the Burmese military in 2017.

Mahmudullah, a Rohingya who participated in the meeting with Bozkir, said leaders told the senior U.N. official that the refugees would go back to Myanmar only after getting an assurance of their safety from the United Nations.

We told him [the General Assembly president] that we want to go back to our homeland with citizenship, rights and respect, Mahmudullah told BenarNews.

Afroza Khanom, who participated in the meeting as a representative for women refugees, said she told Bozkir that any negotiated return must be for the long term.

I came to Bangladesh as a refugee three times in my life. I am not willing to come here again in the future. Thats why I urged the United Nations for a sustainable repatriation for us, Khanom told BenarNews.

Cannot be optimistic about his assurances

For his part, Bozkir said that meeting with the refugees was an immense privilege.

I came face to face with resilience today in Coxs Bazar. We often speak about the Rohingya in the UNGA  but today I spoke with them, Bozkir said.

The Rohingya people living here in Coxs Bazar have survived unimaginable horrors and persecution. They undertook treacherous journeys to reach safety  last year alone 200 lost their lives at sea.

In the capital Dhaka on Tuesday, Bozkir met with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who expressed concern about how the Feb. 1 military coup in Myanmar and its aftermath had affected the prospect of repatriating the Rohingya.

After all, in 2017, it was the Myanmar military  under the leadership of the current junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing  that launched an offensive against the Rohingya, which the U.N. later described as a textbook example of ethnic cleansing.

The military being in power has made the situation even more precarious in Myanmar for the Rohingya, the Burmese Rohingya Organization U.K., said this week.

[A]buse, extortion and humiliation of Rohingya continue on a daily basis, the U.K. group said in a statement.

One analyst said that the visit by the General Assembly president to the refugee camps sends a strong signal to the world about the magnitude of the problems the Rohingya face, but not much else.

The issue will be discussed in the global media and forums, as he [Bozkir] has brought it to the attention of the international community again, after it was overshadowed because of COVID-19, Md. Rafiqul Islam, a professor of peace and conflict studies at Dhaka University, told BenarNews.

But I cannot be optimistic about his assurances, because they [the U.N.] could not do anything when Myanmar was forcing the Rohingya people to leave the country by killing them, and looting and torching their houses.

Reported by BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service.
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has joined human rights organizations in urging the authoritarian leadership of Turkmenistan to immediately end the practice of threatening and harassing exiled journalists' family members and allow all Turkmen journalists living abroad to return to the Central Asian country and work there in safety.

Officers of the Ministry of National Security have "harassed and threatened" the relatives of two journalists -- Rozybai Jumamuradov and Devlet Bayhan -- on a number of occasions since March, the New York-based media freedom watchdog said in a statement on May 26.

It cited reports by the independent Vienna-based news site Khronika Turkmenistana, a joint statement by four human rights organizations, as well as Jumamuradov and Bayhan, who spoke to CPJ.

"The abhorrent practice of exerting pressure on journalists in exile by harassing their family members back home must stop immediately," said Gulnoza Said, CPJ's Europe and Central Asia program coordinator.

"Instead of diverting vast resources into tracking and persecuting critical voices, Turkmen authorities should focus on addressing the serious social and political issues that these voices raise."

Earlier this month, four leading human rights groups -- Human Rights Watch, the Turkmen Initiative for Human Rights, International Partnership for Human Rights, and Amnesty International  criticized Turkmen authorities for "threatening" the relatives of Jumamuradov, Bayhan, and other exiled dissidents.

President Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov has long been accused of suppressing dissent and making few changes in the restrictive country since he came to power after the death of autocrat Saparmurat Niyazov in 2006.

Jumamuradov, a former correspondent of RFE/RL in Turkmenistan who currently resides in Turkey, is an outspoken critic of the government. He is a reporter working with Khronika Turkmenistana.

Bayhan is based in Germany, where he says he is applying for refugee status. He collaborates with Khronika Turkmenistana and runs a video blog critical of the Turkmen authorities.

In one episode on May 4, Turkmen security services in Lebap region summoned Jumamuradov's nephew, cursed and shouted at him, and threatened to imprison him and his parents because of their contacts with Jumamuradov, the journalist said.

They also summoned the boy's mother to the police station and interrogated and intimidated her in the presence of her son before releasing them.

On May 17, the school director told Jumamuradov's 16-year-old niece that she could "forget about good grades" in upcoming exams on account of her contact with her uncle and the May 13 statement by the four human rights groups, according to the journalist and Khronika Turkmenistana.

Jumamuradov told CPJ he didn't feel safe in Turkey and was forced to frequently change addresses to evade the Turkmen security services.

The group quoted Bayhan as saying that national security officers had called on his relatives in the Mary region on "numerous occasions" since March 24, threatening to "make their lives hell" unless they convinced him to quit his journalistic and opposition activities.

Two of his relatives were fired from their jobs in early April in retaliation for his activism, he said, and officers warned one of his family members, whose son serves in the army, that he might not return alive unless Bayhan quit his activities.
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has condemned Iran's use of the judiciary to harass and prosecute journalists for "simply doing their job" and warned of increased harassment of media workers ahead of a presidential election next month.

The watchdog noted pressure put recently on some journalists who had sought to report on the background and alleged human rights violations committed by Ebrahim Raisi, a hard-line cleric in charge of Iran's judiciary, as evidence of growing harassment on independent reporting.

The IFJ said some critical journalists have been subjected to pressure and "a few of them" were summoned to appear before judicial or security authorities.

Raisi is one of seven candidates who have been approved by the Guardians Council to run in the June 18 vote.

"This is yet another example of how the Iranian government uses the legal system to clamp down on independent voices in the country," IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger said.

"Iranian journalists must be able to report about the presidential campaign free from judicial warnings and pressures from the authorities," he added.

Earlier this week the Interior Ministry said the council had approved Raisi, Mohsen Rezai, Saeed Jalili, Amirhossein Ghazizadeh-Hashemi, Abdolnasser Hemmati, Mohsen Mehralizadeh, and Alireza Zakani to run in the election.

The exclusion of several high-profile allies of outgoing President Hassan Rohani has put Raisi in a dominant position for the upcoming election.

He's the best-known candidate of the seven hopefuls, has close ties to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and ran against Rohani in the last presidential election, in 2017.

Rohani, a relative moderate whose government is taking part in talks to revive the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, cannot seek reelection after having served two consecutive four-year terms.

On May 26 he said he has urged Khamenei to widen the field in the campaign to increase competition, which is "the heart of elections."
Azerbaijani forces have captured six Armenian servicemen amid growing border tensions between the two South Caucasus neighbors after last year's war over the breakaway Nagorno-Karabakh region, prompting calls from Washington for both sides to "urgently and peacefully" resolve the issue.

Azerbaijan's Defense Ministry said the Armenian soldiers were seized in Azerbaijan's Kalbacar district early on May 27 as they tried to cross the border to place mines on supply routes leading to Azerbaijani Army positions on the border.

The Defense Ministry later said a military vehicle in the Kalbajar district hit a mine near the Armenian border without providing additional information. There were no official reports of casualties.



Armenias Acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian told a cabinet meeting that the six "abducted" servicemen were planting mines to strengthen the border on Armenian territory and installing warning signs. He rejected Azerbaijans claim that the Armenian troops' action was a provocation.



Pashinian suggested that both Armenian and Azerbaijani troops pull back from the disputed border and international observers monitor the area pending a border demarcation agreement.



"If the situation is not resolved this provocation could inevitably lead to a large-scale clash," he said.

However, the Armenian Defense Ministry said that its six soldiers were captured while carrying out engineering work in the border area of Armenia's Gegharkunik region.

"Necessary measures are being taken to return the captured servicemen," the ministry added.

Acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian later told a cabinet meeting that the six "abducted" servicemen were planting mines to strengthen the border on Armenian territory and installing warning signs.

Earlier this week, Yerevan and Baku blamed each other for border shoot-outs that Armenia said claimed the life of one of its soldiers.

The U.S. State Department voiced concern about the border incidents, including the detention of several Armenian soldiers by Baku.



"We call on both sides to urgently and peacefully resolve this incident. We also continue to call on Azerbaijan to release immediately all prisoners of war and other detainees, and we remind Azerbaijan of its obligations under international humanitarian law to treat all detainees humanely," it said in a statement on May 27.

Armenia had previously accused Azerbaijani troops of crossing several kilometers into its Syunik and Gegharkunik provinces and trying to stake a claim to territory. Azerbaijan insisted that its troops simply took up positions on the Azerbaijani side of the frontier that were not accessible in winter months.

In a statement on May 27, the Armenian Foreign Ministry accused Azerbaijan's military and political leadership of "inflammatory activities" aimed at "further exacerbating tensions, which can seriously undermine regional peace and stability."

Two days earlier, Azerbaijans Foreign Ministry accused Armenia of deliberately fueling tensionsin the border zone by disseminating lies.

The border tensions erupted months after the two South Caucasus neighbors ended a six-week war over Nagorno-Karabakh.

The conflict, which claimed at least 6,900 lives, ended in November with a Moscow-brokered cease-fire that saw Armenia ceding swaths of territory that ethnic Armenians had controlled for decades.

The truce is being monitored by some 2,000 Russian peacekeepers.

Nagorno-Karabakh is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan but has been controlled by ethnic Armenians since the early 1990s.

The ongoing escalation between Yerevan and Baku comes ahead of Armenian parliamentary elections on June 20.

Pashinian announced the vote under pressure from opposition groups and street demonstrators, who had staged rallies demanding his resignation over his handling of the war.

He rejected the criticism, saying he had no choice but to concede or see his country's forces suffer even bigger losses.
The head of Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has paid a visit to Lithuania in a show of support for journalists in Belarus, who he said are facing a "disastrous situation."



Christophe Deloire spoke in Vilnius on May 27 following talks with Lithuanian prosecutors who have launched an investigation into the recent forced landing of a Lithuanian-bound flight in the Belarusian capital, Minsk, where authorities immediately arrested a journalist who was on board.



RSF said it filed a complaint in Lithuania on May 25 against Belarusian authoritarian leader Alyaksandr Lukashenka and any other person investigators identify as responsible for the "hijacking of an aircraft with terrorist intent."



Lithuania's prosecutor-general has announced the launch of an investigation into the incident.

On May 23, Belarusian authorities scrambled a military jet to escort a Ryanair passenger plane, which had departed Athens for Vilnius, to Minsk over what turned out to be a false bomb report.



Once the aircraft landed, police detained journalist and opposition activist Raman Pratasevich and Sofia Sapega, his girlfriend who was traveling with him.

The moves have drawn international condemnation, with the EU cutting air links with the increasingly isolated Eastern European nation. The bloc's foreign ministers are meeting in Lisbon on May 27 to discuss further sanctions on the country.



"It is important to continue acting, to consider every way to support effectively the journalists in Belarus in future because they are now facing a disastrous situation," Deloire said in Vilnius.



"If you want results -- if you want the liberation of the journalist detained today, if you want the end of repression against journalists and generally against the whole civilian population in Belarus -- there are political pressures and economic sanctions that can be put on countries but there is also judicial action," said Deloire.



Lukashenka and his allies are already under a series of Western sanctions over a brutal crackdown on mass protests and independent journalists that followed his disputed reelection to a sixth term in August 2020.



Amid international uproar over the grounding of the Ryanair flight, Lukashenka on May 24 signed into law legal amendments severely restricting civil rights and the free flow of information.



RSF ranked Belarus 158th out of 180 in the world in its 2021 World Press Freedom Index.

With reporting by AFP
E-mail provider Proton Technologies AG says it has not seen "credible evidence" to back up the claim by Belarus that it received an e-mailed bomb threat before diverting a passenger plane to Minsk.

Authoritarian ruler Alyaksandr Lukashenka has claimed that Belarusian authorities on May 23 received a warning in an e-mail from Switzerland about a bomb on a Ryanair flight from Athens to Vilnius.

The plane was then escorted by a Belarusian fighter jet to Minsk, even though the Vilnius airport was closer.

When the plane landed, a journalist critical of Lukashenka and his girlfriend were immediately detained by police. No bomb was found on the plane, which hours later traveled onward to its original destination.

"We haven't seen credible evidence that the Belarusian claims are true," ProtonMail, a division of Swiss-based Proton Technologies, said in a May 27 statement, adding that the e-mail was sent after the aircraft had been forced to change course.

ProtonMail said it will assist European authorities in any investigation of the incident, which has sparked global outrage.

Belarusian officials have said the e-mail was sent in English via an encrypted e-mail service, purportedly by the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Hamas has angrily denied the assertion.

ProtonMail told RFE/RL in an email after the May 27 statement that the copy of an email leaked to the press was not obtained from the company, and due to the encryption utilized by ProtonMail, "we cannot access or verify the contents of the message."



"However, we are able to see when the message was sent, and we can confirm that the message in question was sent after the plane was redirected," it said.



"Due to the usage of ProtonMail by Belarusian citizens to protect their privacy, attempts have been made by the Lukashenka government to block access to ProtonMail since summer 2020. We condemn these actions, and also the recent actions involving Ryanair flight 4978."

Meanwhile, Lina Beisiene, a spokeswoman for the Lithuanian airports, told the Baltic News Service on May 23 that Lithuanian officials had been notified that the plane's diversion was prompted by a conflict between passengers and the flight crew.

However, she said, Lithuania received no information about a bomb threat or other details from Belarus.

After a wave of pro-democracy protests and Western sanctions following a disputed presidential election in August 2020, the diversion of the Ryanair plane has renewed pressure on Lukashenka, with Western leaders demanding the release of journalist Raman Pratasevich and his girlfriend, Sofia Sapega.

The EU had already begun to cut air links with the increasingly isolated Eastern European country and the bloc's foreign ministers are meeting in Lisbon on May 27 to discuss further sanctions on the country.

The Montreal, Canada-based International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) also will hold an urgent meeting on May 27 to discuss Belarus's move to forcibly divert the Ryanair plane.

With reporting by Reuters and TASS
MOSCOW -- When Belarusian strongman Alyaksandr Lukashenka announced in April that he had been the target of a failed assassination plot allegedly backed by the CIA, few outside the country batted an eyelid. That's because the outspoken former collective farm boss who has ruled the ex-Soviet state since 1994 has peddled various outlandish theories since protests erupted over his widely disputed reelection in August.



But Russia took note. State TV channels there quickly picked up Lukashenka's claim, devoting studio discussions to the alleged plot and featuring a lengthy report on it during a flagship Sunday night news show.



Then, three days after Lukashenka made the claim, Russian President Vladimir Putin denounced the West's alleged actions in an official speech.



"You can have your own opinion of Belarusian President Alyaksandr Lukashenka's policy," Putin said in his annual address on April 21. "But the practice of staging coups d'etat and planning political assassinations, including those of high-ranking officials -- well, this goes too far."



Putin's comments provided evidence of the interplay between the narratives advanced by the two allied governments, which have drawn closer since Russia threw its lot behind Lukashenka as he fought for his political survival in recent months. This fusion has not been coincidental: After a swath of journalists quit government-controlled television channels in Belarus in protest against Lukashenka, Russian state TV reporters flew in to fill the posts and keep the channels on message.

And Lukashenka has at times sought to repay the favor. In September 2020, a month after his claim of a landslide victory in an election widely seen as rigged, he met with Mikhail Mishustin to present the Russian prime minister with what he said was the recording of a phone call between two unidentified Western officials discussing the poisoning of Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny.



"We have intercepted this conversation," Lukashenka told Mishustin during their meeting on September 3. "It clearly proves that this was a falsification: Navalny was never poisoned."

Lukashenka 'Ready For Anything'



The English-language call, which was badly dubbed into Russian and described Lukashenka as "a hard nut to crack," was immediately mocked online as a shoddy disinformation effort. But not long after the two officials met, the Russian state news agency RIA published the transcript and quotes from it. And it was soon aired on Russian state TV, helping bolster the Kremlin's argument that President Vladimir Putin's biggest political foe in Russia, who at the time was fighting for his life in Germany, had never been targeted.



"These things signal to Moscow that Lukashenka is ready for anything, including reputational damage, to defend Moscow's interests on the international arena," Artyom Shraybman, a Belarusian political analyst, told RFE/RL. "But I wouldn't exaggerate the extent to which these fakes are jointly pushed by the two sides."

That caveat was instructive this week, when Belarus sought to contain the fallout after it was accused of fabricating a bomb scare on May 23 to force a commercial airliner flying between two EU capitals to land in Minsk instead.



Governments across the West denounced what they called a brazen special operation to seize dissident Belarusian blogger Raman Pratasevich, who was on board. Belarus claimed it was unaware that Pratasevich was a passenger on the Ryanair flight until the plane landed, and pushed the line that it had responded to a nefarious foreign threat.

Some Russian officials defended Lukashenka, with Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accusing Western leaders of hypocrisy in a Facebook post and saying they had "reacted differently to similar events" in the past, citing among others the July 2013 rerouting of a government plane carrying Bolivian then-President Evo Morales.

But Minsk's effort to seize the narrative seemed entirely homegrown. A Belarusian transport official read out what he said was an e-mail from Palestinian militant group Hamas to Minsk airport, warning of a bomb on the Athens-Riga flight. Lukashenka backtracked. "Hamas or not Hamas, it doesn't matter," he told legislators on May 26, insisting the signal about a bomb had originated in Switzerland.

Making Putin Look Good By Comparison?



Dossier Center, a research group funded by self-exiled Russian businessman Mikhail Khodorkovsky, published what it said was a screenshot of the e-mail cited by Belarus. The e-mail, the source of which Dossier Center did not reveal, was sent only after air controllers in Minsk had already warned the Ryanair crew of a bomb threat and called for Israel to cease fire in the Gaza Strip, despite the fact that a cease-fire had taken effect two days before the flight departed Athens.



In an interview with RFE/RL, one U.S. aviation expert said the alleged flight transcript has "holes in it so big that you could drive an airplane through it."

Amid this flurry of unsubstantiated information from Minsk, Abbas Gallyamov, a former Kremlin speechwriter, suggested that Lukashenka's claims just as often catch Kremlin off-guard. But when the two sides fail to coordinate their stories, according to Gallyamov, even Belarus's most brazen exploits rarely elicit condemnation in Moscow.



"Putin benefits. As the world watches Lukashenka lose his marbles, the Russian president looks like a completely adequate and upstanding leader," Gallyamov told RFE/RL. "In fact it so benefits Putin that I wouldn't be surprised if he encourages it."



The cacophony of leaks and claims has also helped muddy the waters around the events of May 23, making it increasingly difficult to untangle fact from fiction. Whether backed or encouraged by Moscow, analysts say, the end result is usually the same.



"These fabrications are little more than a campaign to justify himself. There is no bigger strategic motive," Shraybman said of Lukashenka, adding that on occasions when the Kremlin stands to gain from the disinformation Minsk puts out, Lukashenka is demonstrating loyalty to Moscow in a "tactic to win support."



"Because the more anti-Western he is," said Shraybman. "The more irreplaceable he becomes."
The Belarusian rights group Vyasna has designated Sofia Sapega a political prisoner after a passenger flight she was on from Athens to Vilnius was diverted to Minsk, where she was detained along with her boyfriend, journalist Raman Pratasevich.

The Minsk-based human rights group said Sapega, a Russian national, and four others had been added to its list of political prisoners, as their detention should be considered "as politically motivated persecution in connection with the exercise of freedom of peaceful assembly and expression of their opinion on the announced results of the presidential elections in the Republic of Belarus."

Sapega and Prasatevich, who Vyasna had already declared a political prisoner, have been held in detention since May 23, when their plane was diverted to the Belarusian capital.

In a video circulated by pro-government Telegram channels on May 25, Sapega said she was an editor of an opposition Telegram channel, the Black Book of Belarus, which publishes personal information about security officials who help authoritarian ruler Alyaksandr Lukashenka stay in power in a disputed election last year.

The 23-year-old, who has been remanded in pretrial detention for two months after being charged with a criminal offense, looked uncomfortable and spoke quickly while delivering the comments, prompting opposition officials to say the statements appear forced.

Opposition leaders have said that a similar statement by Pratasevich on May 24 also looked forced and that he appeared to have been tortured. (RFE/RL has decided not to publish or link to either video.)

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told Ekho Moskvy on May 27 that a Russian consul was granted access to Sapega.



"We are doing everything to ensure that the Russian national's rights are respected," Zakharova said.

Vyasna said the four others designated as political prisoners are Alyaksandr Khrapko, Ihar Vinokurov, Eduard Kudynyuk, and Alyaksandr Vinyarski. All have been detained for their participation in protests against Lukashenka, whom opposition leaders say rigged a president election in August 2020 to claim his sixth consecutive term in power.

The EU, United States, Canada, and other Western countries have imposed sanctions against the regime of Lukashenka, who has led a violent crackdown on dissent in the country since mass protests broke out over the disputed results of the presidential election.

With reporting by TASS
European Union foreign ministers are discussing possible economic sanctions against Belarus as the Group of Seven (G7) industrialized countries called for journalist Raman Pratasevich's "immediate and unconditional release" amid a wave of international condemnation over Pratasevich's arrest after a flight he was travelling on was diverted to Minsk by Belarusian authorities.



"We will start discussing implementation of the sectorial and economic sanctions," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said on May 27 as he entered the meeting between foreign ministers in Lisbon, adding that the hijacking of the plane and the detention of Pratasevich and his girlfriend was completely unacceptable.

Borrell added that work on a new round of sanctions on Belarusian individuals was at an advanced stage, but he didn't provide more details.

Several ministers have said EU sanctions should target sectors that most benefit the Belarusian leadership, such as the oil and potash sectors.

"It is clear that we will not be satisfied with small sanctions steps, but that we aim to target the economic structure and financial transactions in Belarus significantly with sanctions," German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas told reporters in Lisbon.

"We really need to find the sectors, the companies, who actually benefit the regime, but not hurting the people," Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis said, suggesting the oil-products sector was an option.

Another possibility floated would be the potash sector, according to Luxembourg's foreign minister, Jean Asselborn.

Belarusian strongman Alyaksandr Lukashenka and his allies are already under a series of Western sanctions over a brutal crackdown on mass protests that followed his disputed reelection to a sixth term in August 2020.

Meanwhile, foreign ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) major industrialized nations called on May 27 for Pratasevich's "immediate and unconditional release."



"We demand the immediate and unconditional release" of Pratasevich, "as well as all other journalists and political prisoners held in Belarus," a joint statement published by the British government said.



The ministers from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Britain, and the United States, along with the European Union "condemn in the strongest terms the unprecedented action by the Belarusian authorities," the statement added.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) agreed on May 27 to probe the forced grounding of the plane. The ICAO's 36-nation governing council acted after the United States and several allies demanded an investigation into the incident.

The ICAO would produce an interim report by June 25, said Irish Transport Minister Eamon Ryan. It will be a fact-finding investigation designed mainly to determine whether international aviation rules were breached. The ICAO has little scope to punish member states other than by suspending voting rights.

The Ryanair flight was diverted after Lukashenka ordered a MiG-29 fighter jet to accompany the aircraft because Belarusian authorities had received information there was a bomb on board the plane.

The threat turned out to be a hoax, though some critics have questioned the veracity of whether there was really a warning at all.

Europe's aviation regulator has already urged all airlines to avoid Belarusian airspace for safety reasons after the EU began to cut air links with the increasingly isolated Eastern European nation.

Belarusian national flag carrier Belavia said it had been forced to cancel flights to seven European countries and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad until October 30 due to flight bans.

In his first public comments about the incident, Lukashenka vehemently dismissed the outrage on May 26 and accused the West of crossing "many red lines" with its reaction to the incident.

In an address to parliament, the Belarusian strongman, who has ruled the country since 1994, warned that Belarus was on the brink of an "icy war" with its enemies trying to undermine his rule.

Lukashenka continues to enjoy support from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is hosting him for a meeting on May 28.

Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, said May 26 there was no reason to doubt Lukashenka's version of events.

The 26-year-old Pratasevich is facing charges of being behind civil disturbances, an offense punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

He was a key administrator of the Telegram channel Nexta-Live, which has been covering the protests that broke out in Belarus following last year's presidential election.

With reporting by AFP, Reuters, and RFE/RL's Belarus Service
The European Union has rejected a decision by Russian prosecutors to designate three German nongovernmental groups as "undesirable organizations," calling the move "the most recent example of the Russian authorities' disregard for a vibrant civil society."

"The decision by the Russian prosecutor-general ultimately harms the interests of Russian people and possibilities for open and free dialogue," EU foreign-policy chief Josep Borrell's spokesman said in a statement on May 27, a day after the designation of Forum Russischsprachiger Europaer e.V., Zentrum fur die Liberale Moderne GmbH, and Deutsch-Russischer Austausch e.V as "undesirable."

The "undesirable organization" law, adopted in May 2015, was part of a series of regulations pushed by the Kremlin that squeezed many nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations that received funding from foreign sources -- mainly from Europe and the United States.

In his statement, Borrell's spokesman Peter Stano said the EU "fully supports the key role played by independent NGOs in developing mutual understanding across borders and improving relations between countries."

"Nothing in the activities of these NGOs justifies this step," he added, calling on the Russian authorities to reverse their decision and to "contribute to the promotion of people-to-people contacts to the benefit of both Russia and the European Union."
Iranian security agencies have harassed and abused families of the victims of the Ukrainian passenger jet shot down by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) after takeoff from Tehran last year, Human Rights Watch said on May 27.



"Iran's Revolutionary Guard killed 176 people without a shred of accountability, and now Iran's brutal security agencies are abusing victims' family members to squash any hope for justice," said Michael Page, deputy Middle East director at Human Rights Watch.



Days after official denials in the wake of the January 2020 tragedy, Iran admitted that an IRGC unit had inadvertently shot down Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 when it fired two missiles amid heightened tensions with the United States over the U.S. drone strike that killed top general, Qasem Soleimani, in Baghdad.

Iran's final report into the incident cited "human error" and a broken radar communication system with a military unit as reason the plane was shot down. But Tehran has come under criticism from the UN, Canada, and Ukraine for misleading statements and lack of transparency about the investigation. Iranian authorities have also provided little public information about the 10 people indicted for their role in the incident.



The majority of the victims were Iranians and Canadians, whose families have demanded transparency and accountability. The Iranian government has allocated $150,000 to compensate the family of each passenger, but some families have refused the money.



Human Rights Watch said it spoke to 31 family members of victims and other people with direct knowledge of Iranian authorities' treatment of victims' families. They said that Iranian security agents had arbitrarily detained, summoned, interrogated, tortured, and otherwise mistreated victims' family members.



The agencies also interfered with burial and memorial gatherings in an apparent attempt to crush calls for accountability.



Human Rights Watch said at least 16 people claimed that security agencies threatened them not to participate in media interviews and summoned victims' relatives or friends who attended memorials. In one case, security agents tortured an individual in custody and in another instance threatened a victims family member with prosecution for speaking out against authorities.

After Iran admitted its forces shot down the plane, protests that broke out in several Iranian cities were met with rubber bullets, pepper spray, and tear gas. Human Rights Watch said courts have sentenced at least 20 people in connection with the protests.



"Iranian authorities have continued to harass and pressure people speaking out publicly about the government's mishandling of the investigation and demands for accountability," Page said.



"All governments involved in the investigation of downed Flight 752 should ensure that the rights of victims' families are protected to pursue genuine accountability, including holding those responsible criminally liable and providing families with adequate compensation." he added.
Zhang Jun, China's permanent representative to the UN. [Photo/Xinhua]

China's envoy to the United Nations on Wednesday called for a Syrian political process led and owned by the Syrian people as the war-torn country held its presidential election in the shadow of a civil war.

"China has noted the relevant activities related to the general elections in Syria and calls upon the international community to respect the sovereignty of Syria and the choice of its people," said Zhang Jun, China's permanent representative to the UN, during a videoconference on Syria.

The Security Council meeting took place as the presidential election kicked off in Syria on Wednesday.

Three candidates, including President Bashar al-Assad, former Deputy Cabinet Minister Abdallah Saloum Abdallah, and Mahmoud Ahmed Marei, head of a small Syrian opposition party, are running in the election.

Zhang, who chaired the conference as China holds the rotating presidency of the Security Council for May, said the UN and the council in particular must step up efforts for an early end to the Syrian crisis.

"We must work tirelessly towards a political settlement to the question of Syria. China supports the work of special envoy Pedersen in promoting the implementation of council Resolution 2254. We call upon all parties in Syria to maintain communication with the special envoy and advance the work of the Constitutional Committee on the basis of the existing consensus," Zhang said.

Zhang said the committee must work independently, free of external interference, to ensure that the political process is in the best interest of Syrians.

The 150-member Syrian Constitutional Committee is a key part of the UN's effort for a "Syrian-owned and Syrian-led" peace process, UN officials said.

The creation of the committee could be traced back to Resolution 2254, which was unanimously adopted by the Security Council in 2015. The resolution provides a road map for peace process in Syria.

Syria has been caught in a devastating civil war since March 2011. The 10-year crisis has killed or wounded almost 12,000 children and left millions out of school, according to the United Nations Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF).

The war has killed nearly half a million people, wounded more than a million and displaced half the country's population, including more than 5 million as refugees.

Further compounding the humanitarian crisis is an ongoing economic crisis, food insecurity, currency depreciation, fuel shortages and the COVID-19 outbreak. The water and sanitation services in Syria have also been severely disrupted by the conflict, UNICEF said.

The envoy noted that the security situation in the northern part of Syria has been turbulent recently, with frequent terrorist attacks, as well as clashes and confrontations among armed groups.

In addition, the operation of foreign troops and missile attacks against Syria have escalated tensions, Zhang said.

"China urges the parties concerned to respect in earnest Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and cease their illegal invasions, and occupation of, and attacks against Syria," the envoy said.

Zhang said the international community must work in synergy and jointly combat terrorism in Syria, in accordance with international laws and Security Council resolutions.

The country is already facing multiple challenges, Zhang pointed out. With the recent decreases in the water flow of the Euphrates River, the functioning of the Alouk water station has been affected, threatening water and electricity supply and agricultural irrigation in that area.

"China urges the UN to scale up its food, vaccine and medical assistance to Syria and calls on all parties to the conflict to protect civilians and cease disruptive acts against civilians' infrastructures," he said.

With unilateral sanctions in place, assistance and funds cannot reach Syria, resulting in tremendous difficulties to the country in repairing and rebuilding its infrastructure such as schools, hospitals and power plants, the envoy said. Syrians can't purchase the most essential parts or equipment, he added.

"The so-called humanitarian exemptions are nothing but an empty shell. On the one hand, some people are calling for humanitarian assistance, and on the other hand, some people are using it as a political tool," he said.

Imposing unilateral sanctions is "a pure hypocrisy". It will not fundamentally alleviate the humanitarian situation in Syria, Zhang said.

"Unilateral sanctions can be described as a roadblock in Syria's reconstruction efforts, and therefore, they must be lifted immediately, so as to restore infrastructure and enable basic services for the Syrian people," the envoy said.
Open Russia, a pro-democracy movement founded by Kremlin critic Mikhail Khodorkovsky, says it has decided to end its operations.

The decision by the Russia-based civic organization was made to protect its supporters from further "harassment" by the Russian authorities due to a bill toughening the law on "undesirable organizations," Executive Director Andrei Pivovarov said on May 27.*

"We do not need new fines and criminal cases, and we want to protect our supporters," Pivovarov told the independent news website MBKh Media, which was also founded by Khodorkovsky.

The move comes after Russian police last week carried out searches of the offices of Open Russia and MBKh in Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Open Russia activists have regularly faced pressure from the authorities since its designation as an "undesirable organization" by Russian prosecutors in 2017, including administrative and criminal charges.

The "undesirable organization" law, adopted in May 2015, was part of a series of regulations pushed by the Kremlin that squeezed many nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations that received funding from foreign sources -- mainly from Europe and the United States.

MBKh Media quoted a human rights lawyer who accompanied the police during last week's searches as saying that the raids both on its offices and those of Open Russia were being conducted as part of an investigation into a criminal case against Nizhny Novgorod activist and entrepreneur Mikhail Iosilevich regarding activities with an "undesirable organization."

Iosilevich allegedly provided premises to train election observers prior to regional elections in September.

Amnesty International also protested the move, pointing to Iosilevich's case.



"Open Russia may be gone, but those associated or alleged to be associated with it are still facing heavy reprisals," Amnesty said in a statement on May 27.



"Mikhail Iosilevich, an activist prosecuted and deprived of his liberty solely on suspicion of collaborating with the movement, remains in pre-trial detention while his health deteriorates.



"We insist on his immediate release and an end to all politically motivated prosecutions under the "undesirable organizations" law, Amnesty said.

With reporting by Reuters and MBKh Media

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story called Open Russia a "British-based" pro-democracy movement.
A network of Russian marketing companies known for selling dubious nutritional supplements and pushing malware is behind a disinformation campaign to denigrate Western coronavirus vaccines, according to a new RFE/RL investigation.



The revelations, which lead to a Moscow-based businesswoman active in pro-Kremlin political circles, add new insight into the campaign that targeted social-media influencers in France and Germany, among other countries, and reportedly attracted the attention of French intelligence agencies.



The woman, Yulia Serebryanskaya, is a veteran of political campaigns and event planning for the ruling United Russia party, and briefly ran as an independent for election in the Moscow city elections in 2019.



She also heads an organization called Russian Initiative, which describes itself as a "worldwide union of Russian speakers" that "helps people carry on our culture and adequately represent our traditions, our social achievements, rather than tolerate a distorted idea of the Motherland, wherever they are."



The disinformation campaign involving marketing companies adds a new dimension to Russia's murky, under-the-radar efforts to promote its own COVID-19 vaccines -- in particular the Sputnik V vaccine backed by the country's sovereign wealth fund, the Russia Direct Investment Fund.

Known as RDIF, the fund has aggressively promoted Sputnik V, extolling, and at times exaggerating, its benefits, while also openly criticizing Western vaccines such as Pfizer/BioNTech, AstraZeneca, and Moderna, and amplifying negative scientific results.



There is no indication that RDIF is linked to the marketing campaign that began to appear in recent weeks, targeting social media influencers in France and possibly elsewhere.



A French investigative news site called Fact & Furious, along with other outlets including The Wall Street Journal, the Associated Press, and The Guardian, reported that French bloggers had received e-mails from a person claiming to work for a marketing firm called Fazze.



The e-mails reportedly offered to pay the bloggers to produce videos on YouTube, Instagram, and other platforms criticizing the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine in particular.



Leo Grasset, a French science blogger whose YouTube account has 1.2 million subscribers, reported he had been contacted, and posted screenshots of some of the e-mails to his Twitter account.



Grasset did not immediately respond to messages from RFE/RL seeking further comment.



In Germany, another social media influencer with a sizable following named Mirko Drotschman also posted screenshots to Twitter of an e-mail he received asking him to participate in a campaign against the Pfizer vaccine.



The company Fazze, which listed an address in London on its website, is not registered in Britain's public company registry. An employment site, however, describes Fazze as part of a marketing agency called AdNow, which has a presence both in Britain and Russia.



The U.K. firm, Adnow LLP, was incorporated in 2014 by a British man and a Russian named Stanislav Fesenko. Adnow LLP and Fazze both list the same London address, one that appears to be a "corporate mailbox" to which scores of companies are registered.



Until 2018, the owner of the Russian unit of AdNow was Serebryanskaya.

The listed address of the company's Moscow office is on Varshavskoye Shosse, in a southern part of the Russian capital, and is the same as that of an Internet marketing firm called 2WTrade, which is also owned by Serebryanskaya. According to its website, 2WTrade specializes in marketing health and beauty products.



A flow chart posted online of what appears to be an internal corporate document indicates further connections between Adnow, 2WTrade, and other associates and companies linked to Serebryanskaya.



A 2001 mathematics graduate of Novosibirsk State Technical University, Serebryanskaya worked briefly for the local affiliate of the state-controlled national broadcaster before graduating and moving to Moscow, where she says she worked for NTV and Channel One -- both either state-funded or state-controlled channels.

Serebryanskaya's online biography also indicates that in 2007 she worked for the campaign headquarters of Dmitry Medvedev, who was serving as a first deputy prime minister prior to being anointed by President Vladimir Putin as his preferred successor. Medvedev was elected president the following year, effectively swapping places with Putin, who became prime minister.



Serebryanskaya also says she worked with Putin's 2012 election campaign, when he returned to the presidency, and that she headed the advertising section in the political department of United Russia, the Kremlin-backed party that dominates Russian politics.



In 2013, Serebryanskaya moved to the United States "for family reasons," spending about two years there, according to her biography. While there, Serebryanskaya says, she "established cooperation with the Russian community in California (in particular, with technology companies in Silicon Valley), Arizona, and Nevada."

RFE/RL was unable to find any public record of her time in the United States.



Upon returning to Russia, Serebryanskaya founded the company 2WTrade, and, a year later, the organization Russian Initiative.



In 2019, she attempted to run for a seat in the Moscow City Duma as an unaffiliated, "self-nominated candidate," but failed to collect enough signatures to register as a candidate.



Serebryanskaya did not respond to e-mails sent via the Russian Initiative website. A message sent to her WhatsApp number was seen, but not immediately responded to.



Fazze also did not respond to an e-mail seeking comment and questions about who its client was and how much the budget for the disinformation campaign was.

Family Ties?

The British man that Stanislav Fesenko worked with at AdNow is identified in U.K. corporate filings as Ewan Tolladay, who previously worked for a phishing and malware company called Mottogeek, now called AnnGames. Fesenko is a former co-owner of AnnGames, along with another Russian man who also hails from Novosibirsk.



Meanwhile, another Moscow-based employee of AdNow was identified, via a LinkedIn profile, as Vyacheslav Usoltsev, who previously worked for a similar marketing company called Brand.ad.



Usoltsev also happens to be the chief executive officer of Fazze.com, according to his LinkedIn profile, which was taken down on May 27. In a Facebook profile that appears to belong to Usoltsev, he uses the nickname "Slava Ussolini."



Brand.ad's website lists its owner only by the last name Serebryansky, with no indication of the first or middle name.



Another public records database, however, identifies a Russian man named Mikhail Serebryansky, who shares the same middle "patronymic" name as Serebryanskaya -- indicating their fathers have the same first name.



Corporate records show Serebryansky owns or has a share in a number of retail and software development firms, several of which are registered at the same addresses as the companies associated with Serebryanskaya.



One commenter on an employee-review site claimed that Serebryanskaya's brother is the firm's "investor."



Until 2018, Serebryanskaya was the listed owner of the British-incorporated company 2WTrade LLP. But in May of that year, ownership of the firm was transferred to a Guatemalan man, U.K. corporate records show. A man by the same name is listed as a co-founder of Serebryanskaya's organization, Russian Initiative.

'Unknown Provenance'

Graham Barrow, a U.K.-based financial crimes expert and host of a podcast about money laundering, told RFE/RL that Serebryanskaya is identified as a "person of significant control" for three U.K. entities, all three of which appear to be connected, and exhibit strong signs of being shell companies.



Along with being registered at a corporate mailbox address -- a common business practice where hundreds of corporations can be located at a single location -- all indications are that the companies "have no real commercial activity but exist solely to act as a conduit for assets, often of unknown provenance," Barrow told RFE/RL.



"For example, all three have declared, at some point in their existence, the same pair of offshore companies, one from Belize and one from British Virgin Islands, to be the officers of the company. These two companies have acted for many other U.K.-registered companies, none of which appears to be associated with the U.K. in any way," Barrow said.



Though no evidence has turned up suggesting the involvement of Russian public entities, or government officials or agencies in the social media campaign, the effort has echoes of other public relations efforts conducted by RDIF.



Utilizing a punchy Twitter handle, RDIF has sought to amplify a host of scientific studies that have looked at adverse effects caused by some Western-developed vaccines.

But when Slovakia's drug regulator in April reported discrepancies in the contents of a batch of Sputnik V vaccines it had received from Russia, RDIF accused Slovak officials of a disinformation campaign against the Sputnik vaccine.



Slovakia, which has been using Pfizer and other Western vaccines, approved use of Sputnik V on May 26.

'Deeply Reprehensible'

In September, regulators in several countries halted use of the AstraZeneca vaccine after reports suggested an increased danger of rare blood clots. Ultimately, the vaccine was cleared for use after officials determined the risk was minimal.



The head of RDIF, Kirill Dmitriyev, hailed the resumption of the use of AstraZeneca while also suggesting that the science on which it was developed was flawed.

"The suspension of trials clearly showed the fallacy of the approach, when entire countries exclusively rely on novel and untested platforms when choosing a vaccine for widespread use," Dmitriyev said in a statement.



In October, The Times Of London detailed what it said was a stealth disinformation campaign that aimed to malign the AstraZeneca vaccine by spreading memes and videos on fake websites that suggested the vaccine could turn people into monkeys.



"We know that Russia has got a track record in this area. Previously we've commented and called them out on it," Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said in an interview with Sky News. "But anyone trying to basically sabotage the efforts of those trying to develop a vaccine, I think, are deeply reprehensible. It's unacceptable and unjustified in any circumstances."



Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov rejected the allegations.



"Russia is not misinforming anyone, Russia proudly talks about its successes and Russia shares its successes regarding the first-ever registered vaccine in the world," he said.
There are more and more sightings of bears in Richland County all the time, which is just about right really, because this place was theirs long before we ever showed up.

If footprints could mark the land in such a way as to transcend time it would be easy to see that there were bears all over this county for thousands of years.

Their tracks would be found in every field, along every stream, in every rocky grotto.

When the first county histories were compiled in the 1850s there were bear stories from every township. Most of these stories did not have a happy ending for the bear.

The historical response to bears around here takes on distinctly different timbres depending on which eras of local history you focus your lens through.

Folks in the 1810s had a very different response to bears than folks in the 1910s. The farmers in both those decades would be astounded to see the wonder with which these critters are regarded in the 2010s.

The first 100 years

Pioneers in Richland County never had much good to report about their bear sightings. Most often it focused on their pigs or sheep that were missing, and the bear tracks that were left behind.

A farmer near Bellville heard his hog squealing one day and when he went to check on it a neighbor boy told him he saw a man with a black coat carrying the hog away.

If there was more to the story than simply thieving bears, then it involved somebody following the bear with a rifle. The main part of the story was what happened when the bear turned around.

In Monroe Township the bear turned around and chased his young pursuer up a tree. It was not a very big tree though, so when the bear started gnawing on the roots the young man said he couldnt tell whether it was himself or the tree who shook worse.

As his tale unfolded it happened that a wild boar burst out of the forest at the critical moment and, fortunately for the treed hunter, the bear took off after the pig.

The narrative went on though. As soon as the kid told his father about his bear adventure the old man grabbed his rifle, a couple of pals, and stormed out in angry pursuit.

They caught up with their hairy adversary about nightfall, and saw it climb high up a huge old tree. The irony of the situation was a large part of the storytelling: that both of the hunted  first the boy and then the bear  went up a tree imagining they had escaped their doom.

The hunting men sat down and built a campfire at the base of the tree, and slept there that night waiting for the bear to come down and face them.

This story ended, as do nearly all the bear tales in the county histories, with a tally of how many bullets it took to fell the bear.

Generally speaking, the one-shot endings were considered the most heroic or commendable.

There was one bear however, whose bullet-tally legend inspired tremendous awe and reverence among the early settlers.

He was called the old one, and referred to as chief among bears. There were any number of men who reported shooting him, and even more who claimed to have fired directly at him but unaccountably missed.

He always got away. He had a reputation of being perhaps not of this world.

When the mythic beast was finally taken down some years later near Butler the bear had 11 rifle balls in his old hide. Mr. Simmons, who ultimately ate the bear, unplugged all the ammunition from his dinner and returned each lead ball to its owner.

Before the first 100 years

The European settlers from whom we glean our county histories were not the first folks who dealt with Richlands bear population.

When pioneers in 1812 went to the tribal village of Greentown to eat dinner with their Wyandot guests, one of the delicacies on the menu was bear meat.

From evidence of artifacts found in the Richland dirt, and from those discovered within walking distance of our hills, it is amply apparent that tribal cultures who lived here before us also had intimate knowledge of, and relationships with, ursus americanus.

Interestingly enough, it is the image of the bear that provides perhaps the only cultural connection we share with our Richland neighbors who lived here thousands of years ago.

When European settlers arrived in the forks of the Mohican River, they looked in to the night sky and identified the cluster of stars in the north as the constellations Ursa Major and Ursa Minor: the big bear and the little bear.

Miraculously, the Native American people who lived here before the settlers arrived, and whose cultural paradigm was utterly different from the settlers in every way, also recognized the northern star grouping as the mythic image of the bear.

The Lenape, and other Algonquian tribal descendants who lived at Greentown called the stars of Ursa Major the bear followers.

The second 100 years

The bears of Richland County were pretty much eliminated from our hills and hollows 150 years ago.

The most significant bears related to local history since then were those who came to life from the imagination of a local boy: Frank VerBeck.

He was a highly respected illustrator whose legacy in American literature spans the decades from the 1890s through the 1920s.

He is often noted for illustrating some of L. Frank Baums Oz books, and some of the Joel Chandler Harris Uncle Remus books.

But he is most loved for his own books about bears.

It started in 1898 when he drew the pictures for a book by Albert Bigelow Paine called The Arkansaw Bear. The pictures were so much more popular than the story that there was a huge demand for more VerBeck Bears.

He subsequently did at least seven more books featuring his lovable bears.

Frank VerBeck grew up in and around Mansfield, and developed his artistic talents under the tutelage of a Mansfield sign painter. After earning fame in New York and England, he came back here often to visit his family.

To our benefit today he left a number of his bears in local collections, and on the walls of his friends.

Within recent generations

The only other major Richland migration of bears in the 20th century happened in Lexington. They were polar bears. They lived in a refrigerated basement on east Main Street inside a storefront that was painted arctic blue.

This was during the 1960s and, fortunately or unfortunately for the bears, the place never particularly caught on as a very consequential tourist attraction.

Footnotes

The other annotations regarding bears in Richland County seem self-evident, but probably are worth citing nonetheless.

A number of generations in Monroe Township have had countless sightings and encounters with Lucas Cubs.

And there have been multiple sightings all over the county during the last 70 years of Smokey the Bear.
BUCYRUS  The Memorial Day event in Bucyrus will be enhanced in the citys bicentennial year.

The activity is organized by the Veterans Memorial Society, which partners with the Bucyrus Bicentennial Commission this year. A parade will start at 9:30 a.m. on May 31 at Washington Square, going south on Sandusky and Oakwood Avenues and arriving the Oakwood Cemetery.

Bicentennial coordinator Kelli Patterson said a ceremony will take place at the columbarium next to the main entrance of the cemetery. The ceremony includes a wreath-laying by Bucyrus Mayor Jeff Reser. The mayor will also read a list of those killed in action in World War II in honor of the fallen soldiers.

At noon, the Bicentennial Commission will hold a Veterans Cemetery Walk, a collaboration with the Bucyrus Area Chamber of Commerce. Patterson said 11 veterans that have passed away will be commemorated. Their descendants will portray their lives for the participants.

Transportation is provided for those who cant walk around in the cemetery, Patterson said. Carnations will be available for people to lay on graves.

The Bicentennial Commission also works with local catering business Katering Kountry Style to provide veterans a free lunch. Patterson said veterans are encouraged to pick up a voucher at local American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars or American Veterans between now and Monday to get the free meal on Memorial Day.

The commission will pass out a lapel pin to all veterans on that day, Patterson said.

We're just trying to make our veterans feel special because they've given up so much for us, she said.

The event organizers encourage people to bring a chair or blanket to watch the parade and the ceremony at the Oakwood Cemetery. Parking will be available on the corner of Oakwood and Kaler Avenues, the north side of the cemetery.

A Memorial Day parade in Galion will take place at 10 a.m. on Monday, according to the city. The parade will start at the main square in downtown and head east on Harding Way. It turns north onto Fairview Avenue and ends at the Fairview Cemetery, following by a ceremony.

A parade in Crestline organized by VFW Post 2920 will start at 10 a.m. on Monday, according to the organization. It will start at the veterans memorial in front of the Crestline City Hall and head to the Greenlawn Cemetery.
CRAWFORD COUNTY -- Join Crawford Park District Naturalist Chelsea for an interactive read aloud every Thursday morning throughout the summer.

These programs will be outside and will include a fun story with a related activity or animal visitor.

The upcoming "Nature Storytime" dates in June are 3, 10, 17 and 24, each one at 10 a.m. at Lowe-Volk Park, 2401 Ohio 598, about three miles north of U.S. 30.

Children will receive a nature storytime ticket to keep track of their attendance and can choose a prize after five visits.

For more information on other programs offered by the Crawford Park District, visit www.crawfordpd.org, follow the organization on Facebook or contact the park district office at 419-683-9000.
MADISON TOWNSHIP  The Madison board of education heard a financial forecast update and finalized a reduction in force (RIF) of its teaching staff during Wednesday night's meeting.

Treasurer Robin Klenk gave a brief overview of the districts updated five-year forecast. She based her projections on Gov. Mike DeWines current proposal to restore fiscal year 2019 funding levels, which were cut later on due to the pandemic.

School districts will not know for sure how much funding they will receive from the state over the next two years until a biennial budget is approved later this summer.

Klenk stated that the districts expenditures began outpacing its revenues last year and projected the gap will only grow wider in coming years, with benefits being the fastest growing expense. Wages and benefits for fiscal year 2021 made up 75.1 percent of the district's expenditures.

Klenk also projected ending cash balances for the next five years, advising that the district should try to end each school year with between 30 and 60 days operating costs set aside.

Klenk said the district will end this school year with about a 65-day cash balance and next school year with a 60-day cash balance. Klenk projected the district will end fiscal year 2023 with a 26-day reserve.

If revenues do not increase, the district is projected to drop into a negative cash balance in fiscal year 2024. This would necessitate a levy, since Ohio law does not allow school districts to carry a negative balance.

Klenk stated last month that the district will likely have to go on the ballot for another operating levy soon.

"We haven't had a new operating levy since 1990. But we're trying to hold off as long as we can because of the unsettling times right now," she said.

According to Klenks updated numbers, Madisons financial position has improved modestly since the last five-year forecast issued in November. In that forecast, the district was projected to reach a negative fund balance in fiscal year 2023.

The district recently underwent a reduction in force (RIF) in order to reduce expenditures.

The board voted Wednesday to complete the RIF by eliminating 14 teaching positions, effective during the 2021-22 school year, including:

One elementary music teacher.

One librarian/media specialist.

One first grade teacher at Eastview Elementary.

One second grade teacher at Eastview Elementary.

One fourth grade teacher at Eastview Elementary.

One intervention specialist at Mifflin.

One first grade teacher at Mifflin.

One second grade teacher at Madison South Elementary.

One STEM teacher at Madison South Elementary.

One fifth and sixth grade music teacher.

One sixth grade English Language Arts teacher.

One Spanish teacher at Madison Comprehensive High School.

One credit recovery teacher at Madison Comprehensive High School.

One social studies teacher at Madison Comprehensive High School.

"Going through a reduction in force is a very difficult and challenging process for everybody," Superintendent Rob Peterson said in April. "It's something that nobody wants to have to go through.

"Unfortunately with our financial situation, this is a process we just had to go through."

Lisa Gonzalez, the district's federal programs director, also gave an overview of how Madison spent COVID-19 relief funds.

The first round of funding was slightly less than $681,000. Nearly half of that funding was spent on technology and instruction, 18 percent was spent on transportation and 6 percent on safety. Then remaining funds were dividing among numerous other expenditure categories.

Of the second round of funding, which was more than $2.6 million, 41 percent went to instruction and closing learning gaps. Significant amounts also went to air quality and facilities upgrades.

The district is in the process of deciding how to spend the $6 million allocation from the third round of state funding, but federal guidelines require at least 20 percent of the funds to be used to address learning loss. The remaining funds will likely be used for further air quality improvements, replacing windows and upgrading district technology.

The board also approved the purchase and installation of Madison Cisco Phone System on NCOCC cluster in the amount of $95,441.64. The phone system will be paid for with COVID-19 relief funds (ESSER II).

Gonzalez said one eligible use of ESSER II funds is to develop and implement systems to improve safety and preparedness efforts. The addition of a phone system will allow for better staff communication, especially in the buildings with few existing phones and poor cell phone reception.

The district will also use $172,341.52 in ESSER II funds to purchase Chromebook and carts and $168,750 to purchase touchscreen devices. Peterson said the purchase is necessary because the current Chromebooks arent compatible with some of the state tests administered online. The touchscreen devices will allow kindergarteners to take state exams more easily.

The board also:

Approved Jordan Nelson approved as assistant middle school principal and Jennifer OBrien as attendance officer at the high school.

Approved a partial roof restoration project at Mifflin Elementary by Meade Construction in the amount of $54,080 to be completed in fiscal year 2022.

Approved a partial roof restoration project at Madison South Elementary by Mid-Ohio Roofing, Inc. in the amount of $70,900 to be completed in fiscal year 2022.

Approve a roof restoration project at Madison Comprehensive High School (main office roof) by Mid-Ohio Roofing in the amount of $62,800 to be completed in fiscal year 2022.

Approved the purchase and installation of managed internal broadband service (WiFi) upgrade and license for the high school, Eastview and Mifflin and license only for the middle school in the amount of $16,870.55.

Approved increases in hourly and daily pay rates for substitute teachers, secretaries, aides and long term substitute teachers.
MANSFIELD -- Stepping into the halls of Mansfield Spanish Immersion School brought back a wave of recollections for its founding kindergarten class.

The lack of air conditioning was really nostalgic for me. It really brought back a lot of fun memories of being sticky in the cafeteria and making tamales, said recent Mansfield Senior graduate Brianne Blevins.

Oh, I do remember making tamales, chimed in Nakari Virden, a fellow Tyger grad.

Mine was disgusting. It was like dough and sprinkles, Blevins said.

I dont think I even got mine tied. I think I couldnt even get that far, added Mickelan Blankenship, another Spanish Immersion alumnus.

Nine members of the Class of 2021 -- the schools first kindergarten class -- visited the Mansfield Spanish Immersion campus last week, dressed in their caps, gowns and regalia to walk through the building one more time.

Current Spanish Immersion students lined the halls to clap and cheer them.

We wanted to recognize the first class and their accomplishments through the program and beyond, said Principal Michael Brennan said. The 2021 school year has been obviously challenging. So we wanted to make sure that they were recognized for not only their accomplishments for the year but what they've done to start this school off.

Katrina Walter, the schools music teacher, came close to tears as she watched her former students walk by all grown up.

Walter joined the Spanish Immersion staff in the schools second year, when the students were first graders.

Theyve just grown into mind-blowing people. I've been following some of them but some of them I haven't seen for a while, Walter said.

It was pretty nice and it was obviously good to come back, said Mansfield Senior graduate Reese Vaught. I feel like all of us enjoyed our time here, so it was good for a little glimpse back.

All of the students agreed that having a bilingual education helped them in the long run.

It helps with your cognitive skills and stuff so I think that's definitely an advantage, said Karmen Peterson, the valedictorian of this years graduating class at Mansfield Senior High School.

Nathan Histed, a Lexington student, spoke Spanish extensively during his junior year.

I was an exchange student. I went to Peru. So I used it a lot, Histed said. I'm going to go into IT, so hopefully I'll get to use it, then at some point.

Other students mentioned theyve been able to follow conversations theyve overheard in public.

Walking around the supermarket and understanding what Spanish people are saying when they don't think I do -- I think that's quite entertaining, Vaught said.

Blankenship has already had the chance to put his Spanish language skills to good use outside the classroom.

I work in retail, so I deal with people sometimes who speak only Spanish, Blankenship said. Sometimes I'm the only one who can help them. That's pretty cool.
MANSFIELD -- The retirement of Mansfield Police Assistant Chief Joseph Petrycki is one of four that will take place on the force in the next few weeks.

Assistant Chief Joseph Petrycki announced his retirement from the Mansfield Division of Police effective June 2, 2021.

Assistant Chief Petrycki began his law enforcement career with the Division of Police on April 12, 1996, was promoted to Sergeant on April 3, 2008, to Lieutenant on Sept. 26, 2014, and then to Assistant Chief on May 7, 2019, and holds a B.S. Degree in Criminal Justice and Sociology from Ashland University.

During his tenure with the Division he has served as a Sergeant in the Community Services Bureau, Sergeant in the Major Crimes Unit and Sergeant in the Special Investigative Section/METRICH. A

As a Lieutenant he served in the Community Services Bureau as the Night Watch Commander and as the Commander of the METRICH Enforcement Unit until his promotion to Assistant Chief.

He is a former member of the Allied Special Operations Response Team (ASORT/SWAT) where he served as an operator, long rifleman and team leader. In December 2012 he was appointed the Commander of ASORT until he retired from the team in late 2016.

Throughout his 25-year career, he served as a Field Training Officer, Fitness Instructor, Recruitment Officer, Firearms Instructor, Crisis Intervention Instructor, Armorer, Defensive Tactics Team Instructor, Range Team Instructor and Technical Crash Investigator and has extensive experience in investigations and tactical operations, and was a member of the Department's Honor Guard.

According to Mansfield Police Chief Keith Porch, Petrycki is known for his hard work, dedication, initiative and positive attitude toward his work and co-workers.

"He consistently demonstrates a high degree of skill, integrity, perseverance in his job, and exemplifies the best qualities of a law enforcement professional," Porch stated.

Petrycki has received numerous Special Commendation Awards, letters of recognition and letter of appreciation from citizens and fellow law enforcement personnel.

On Dec. 31, 2005 he received the Officer of the Year Award, Dec. 7, 2007 the Military Service Award, December 31, 2009 and Dec. 31, 2013 the Supervisor of the Year Awards, and Nov. 16, 2016 and Oct. 30, 2019 the Legion of Merit Awards.

Joe has our congratulations upon his retirement and our heartfelt thanks for his many years of loyal service. We wish him the greatest success and happiness in the future.

Due to restrictions in place due to COVID-19 there will be no public ceremony.

"Happy retirement and good luck, Joe!" Porch stated.

Retirement MPD Officer Orlando D. Chatman Jr.

Officer Orland D. Chatman Jr. announced his retirement from the Mansfield Division of Police effective June 1, 2021.

Officer Chatman was appointed to the Mansfield Division of Police on Aug. 21, 2006. Prior to his appointment to the department he served in the U. S. Army for three years active duty and one year in the Army Reserves. He was a Correction Officer in the department's jail for six years and won the Correction Officer of the Year Award.

As a new Patrol Officer for the Mansfield Division of Police he was assigned to the Community Service Bureau Patrol Section and worked on all three shifts, until his assignment to the Special Operations Bureau Neighborhood Impact Section as a D.A.R.E. Officer in January 2017.

He taught sixth and eighth grade students at numerous schools to avoid drugs, membership in gangs and violent behavior, and counseling for all schools. During this time he was also in charge of running the D.A.R.E. Olympics every spring. Throughout his career he served as a Field Training Officer, Recruitment Officer, Youth Program Specialist, and received a Military Service Award.

Porch said Officer Chatman is known for his hard work, dedication, initiative and positive attitude toward his work and co-workers.

"He consistently demonstrates a high degree of skill, integrity, perseverance in his job, and exemplifies the best qualities of a law enforcement professional," Porch said. "He has received numerous Special Commendation Awards, letters of recognition and letters of appreciation from citizens and fellow law enforcement personnel.

Orlando's retirement represents a loss to the Mansfield Division of Police and culminates a career that has exemplified the best qualities of a law enforcement professional.

"Orlando has our congratulations upon his retirement and our heartfelt thanks for his many years of loyal service. We wish him the greatest success and happiness in the future."

Due to restrictions in place due to COVID-19 there will be no public ceremony.

"Happy retirement and good luck, Orlando!" Porch said.

Retirement MPD Officer Ronald A. Barnes

Officer Ronald A. Barnes announced his retirement from the Mansfield Division of Police effective June 1, 2021.

Officer Barnes was appointed to the Mansfield Division of Police on June 17, 2014, and was assigned to the Community Service Bureau Patrol Section.

Prior to this appointment he began his law enforcement career with the city on May 24, 1986, working at the Clearfork Reservoir, the City Parks Department, and a Dispatcher in the Public Safety Communication Section. He also graduated from North Central Criminal Justice Police Academy and volunteered with the Mansfield Police Auxiliary Unit during this time.

Officer Barnes was assigned to the Special Operations Bureau Neighborhood Impact Section on Oct. 20, 2015 as a Community Policing Officer. Along with Community Policing duties, he assisted the Neighborhood Watches and their meetings, and served as an Advisor for the Mansfield Police Explorers Unit Post 7751.

During his time with the Explorers Unit they attended Hands-on National Competitions in Flagstaff, Arizona July 2016, at Purdue University July 2018 and took fifth place in Traffic Crash Competition, at Ohio State Competition 2016 took third place, and 2021 took second place out of 31 teams competing.

Porch said Officer Barnes is known for his hard work, dedication, initiative and positive attitude toward his work and co-workers.

"He consistently demonstrates a high degree of skill, integrity, perseverance in his job, and exemplifies the best qualities of a law enforcement professional," Porch said.

He has received numerous Special Commendation Awards, letters of recognition and letters of appreciation from citizens and fellow law enforcement personnel.

"Ron's retirement represents a loss to the Mansfield Division of Police and culminates a career that has exemplified the best qualities of a law enforcement professional," Porch said. "Ron has our congratulations upon his retirement and our heartfelt thanks for his many years of loyal service. We wish him the greatest success and happiness in the future."

Due to restrictions in place due to COVID-19 there will be no public ceremony.

"Happy retirement and good luck, Ron!" Porch said.

Retirement MPD Officer Andrew J. Boor

Officer Andrew J. Boor announced his retirement from the Mansfield Division of Police effective June 1, 2021.

Officer Boor began his law enforcement career with the Mansfield Division of Police on Aug. 12, 1994. As a new officer he was assigned to the Community Services Bureau Patrol Section and spent the majority on night shift. May 2005 he was assigned to the K-9 Unit along with a K-9 partner Dezi, the first female German Shepherd to join the department.

With less than six months experience as a team, K-9 Dezi placed fourth overall in Narcotics Detection at the United States Police Canine Association Competition at Bowling Green, Kentucky, competing against over sixty veteran Police K-9 teams. Officer Boor has served the last five years in the Traffic Section.

In 2008 Officer Boor was the first of two officers that established the department's Honor/Color Guard. He has been a Field Training Officer for 15 years, training numerous officers.

Porch said Officer Boor is known for his hard work, dedication, initiative and positive attitude toward his work and co-workers.

"He consistently demonstrates a high degree of skill, integrity, perseverance in his job, and exemplifies the best qualities of a law enforcement professional," Porch said.

He has received numerous Special Commendation Awards, letters of recognition and letters of appreciation from citizens and fellow law enforcement personnel. He received two Legion of Merit Awards.

"Andy's retirement represents a loss to the Mansfield Division of Police and culminates a career that has exemplified the best qualities of a law enforcement professional," Porch said. "Andy has our congratulations upon his retirement and our heartfelt thanks for his many years of loyal service.

"We wish him the greatest success and happiness in the future."

Due to restrictions in place due to COVID-19 there will be no public ceremony.

"Happy retirement and good luck, Andy!" Porch said.
Written By

Joe Schulz served as the reporter of the Green Laker in 2019 and 2020, before being hired as a reporter for the Commonwealth in October 2020. He is from Oshkosh and graduated from UW-Oshkosh in December with a bachelor's degree in journalism.

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Issue:

Despite objections from Ripons Historic Preservation Commission, it appears that Ripon Colleges Merriman House will come down this summer.

In a letter to an alumnus of the Phi Kappa Pi fraternity, which was obtained by the Commonwealth, Ripon College President Zach Messitte confirmed that the college plans to raze the building.

Merriman House will be taken down in the summer of 2021, Messitte wrote to the alumnus. This decision was not made lightly or without consideration of the strong connection many Phi Kappa Pi alumni have to the house.

He confirmed that plan to the Commonwealth Tuesday, noting there isnt a precise timeline for the project.

Although the citys Historic Preservation Commission doesnt have jurisdiction over the Ripon College campus, it sent a letter to the Commonwealth expressing its desire to find a way to save the building.

Merriman house is and represents a unique style of architecture and materials important to our city, the commission said. Its size, scale and colonial architecture, along with being one of a very few limestone mansion-like buildings in our community, make it worthy of preserving in our region of the state of Wisconsin.

Background:

For many years, the Merriman House, 470 Congress St., had been home to the Phi Kappa Pi fraternity  better known as Merriman  until the fall of 2010 when the fraternity was relocated to a traditional dorm.

The move was framed as necessary due to deteriorating conditions in Merriman House that posed risks for its inhabitants.

Last month, after Ripon College filed paperwork to raze the building, Messitte said the college did not have a definitive plan for the Merriman House and was in the very early stages of coming up with a plan for the property.

The building has not been occupied for over a decade, and its in really poor condition, he said. Over the course of the last few years, the college has worked with some alumni and with others to try and figure out what to do with the building.

Messittee said Tuesday that he isnt sure why the Merriman House wasnt maintained over the years as it was unsafe for students before he became Ripon College president.

I dont know the specific reason why it fell into that level [of disrepair]; I just dont know, he said.

Status:

Ripon College will be razing the building, after spending several years exploring ways to restore the property with Merriman alumni, Messitte told the Commonwealth Tuesday.

He said the building is in rough shape as it has asbestos issues and does not comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.

The college even hired an architect to provide possible renderings of what a remodeled Merriman House could look like several years ago, Messitte added.

The building, from the architectural renderings, really needed to be completely renovated, he said. It wasnt just a fix up, this was a significant renovation that had a significant cost.

Messitte said Ripon College began trying to fundraise for the project, but it was clear that the college would need donors to contribute up to six figures to fund the renovations.

We had some initial success and raised a bit of money, but nowhere near enough to be able to renovate it, he said. I spent months and countless numbers of hours, crisscrossing the country making the case to people.

Historic Preservation Commission chairman Ald. John Splitt said last week Tuesday he doesnt want to see the building demolished and hopes it can be restored, similar to other buildings in Ripon.

Its part of our duty to express unhappiness that theyre going to be taking down a historic building, he said.

In its letter to the Commonwealth, the Historic Preservation Commission pitched several ideas for ways the building could be saved. Those ideas include turning it into a living space for educators, converting it into office spaces or study spaces and selling it to a private entity.

Certainly the Merriman House, Hall, and former fraternity building can be repurposed and reused for the benefit of the college or members of our community, the letter read. During the 1960s and 1970s, Ripon lost many of our architectural and historic gems including municipal, residential, and college student housing buildings.

Messitte says he appreciates the commission for caring about the property and its role in the community, but Ripon College has exhausted all of its options for the property.

At the end of the day, the status quo is a deteriorating, unsafe building, he said. Unless someone is going to step up with a viable solution that both helps the institution and the community, its just sort of well intentioned words. And I appreciate that, but what Im looking for here are solutions.

Whats next?

The Merriman House will be razed this summer, beginning with asbestos remediation.

We dont have a definitive plan yet as to what comes next, Messitte told the Commonwealth. But were willing to work with people who have an interest in that space.

In Messittes letter to the alumnus, he said that, in working with Merriman leadership to convert the house into an alumni center and a central location for academic support services, Ripon College reconnected with alumni who had been disengaged for years.

I will continue to rely on that sense of renewed collaboration as the college works with Merriman student leadership and alumni in planning for a commemorative installation on the grounds of the Merriman House next fall, he penned.

Is there an issue you want us to update?

If youre wondering about something that was in the news but doesnt have a resolution, send your idea to:

Email: news@riponpress.com.

Phone: 920-748-3017

Mail: 303 Watson St., PO Box 262, Ripon, WI 54971
Management at The Oaks Course is dedicated to growing the game of golf. One segment of the population that is a focus is junior golf. The Oaks regularly hosts junior events where young players can develop the future of the game and have fun. On Friday, June 11, The Oaks hosted a US Kids Golf Click for more.
Rocky Mount, NC (27804)

Today

Cloudy early, then off and on rain showers for the afternoon. High 77F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies this evening will become partly cloudy after midnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 64F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
Roanoke Rapids, NC (27870)

Today

Cloudy this morning. A few showers developing during the afternoon. High 74F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low near 60F. Winds light and variable.
Local

Mascot committee convenes

The first meeting of the Rutland City Board of School Commissioners ad hoc mascot committee was mostly spent setting the table for future meetings.

The four-person committee met Tuesday evening virtually on Zoom in a meeting watched by about two dozen people, including several additional commissioners and school district administrators.

Board Chairman Hurley Cavacas formed the ad hoc committee earlier this month to investigate the process by which the board retired the Raider name and arrowhead logo and adopted Ravens as the districts new team name and mascot.

Last October, the board voted 6-4 to retire the former name and logo, deeming it offensive and hurtful to Indigenous Americans. In February, it approved Ravens to replace it.

However, the previous name and logo are back on the table following the election of a slate of pro-Raider School Board candidates in March.

Cavacas has suggested the February vote to adopt Ravens should be invalidated, arguing the vote did not follow Roberts Rules of Order because the new mascot proposal was not an action item on the agenda.

He tapped Commissioners Ann Dages, Dena Goldberg, Charlene Seward and Stephanie Stoodley to sit on the committee, providing equal representation to both sides of the issue.

At the top of the meeting, Seward nominated Goldberg, who was approved unanimously, to chair the committee.

After accepting the role, Goldberg asked the public for patience as the committee finds its feet, stating, this is not a traditional assignment.

She then welcomed public comment, but reminded people that the newly formed body would review the process related to the mascot issue and not debate the merits of the mascots themselves.

She added that the public will have an opportunity to participate in that discussion at a special meeting of the full board tentatively scheduled for June 22.

No one requested to speak.

Next, the committee began by reviewing the charge Cavacas issued and how it would go about accomplishing its objectives, which are:

 They will determine the procedures that were followed during the boards prior action to change the Rutland City Public Schools mascot and report on what occurred, when it occurred and how it occurred.

 They will consult with any needed experts on Roberts Rules of Order to identify whether the process was carried out correctly and, if not, what are the consequences?

 They will report to the board the facts, results and conclusions of the committees research.

 They will answer the question of whether the boards prior action(s) and decision(s) can be properly revisited or reconsidered and, if so, how?

 They will make recommendations to the board on what next steps might considered proper, knowing that only the board has the authority to act on these issues.

While all agreed that a review of relevant agendas, minutes and videos from past board meetings was likely a good idea, they also agreed that none of them were qualified to make determinations about whether or not Roberts Rules of Order were followed.

Goldberg acknowledged that the board underwent a training in Roberts Rules facilitated by the Vermont School Boards Association last week, but stressed that none of the commissioners are experts on the matter.

I would feel very concerned about us making that determination, she said.

The rest of the committee agreed that it was necessary to consult with a parliamentarian who can offer an expert opinion.

Goldberg recognized Commissioner Alison Notte, who suggested that it might make sense to consult a parliamentarian first.

I dont know that its worth wasting your time to go back through meeting minutes, videos and agendas if theres no infraction or anything would be changed if Roberts Rules was not followed to the tee, Notte said. Theres no mechanism in Roberts Rules to go back and pick meetings apart and change outcomes.

Goldberg said she felt it was important to define the role of any expert they bring in, adding that she believed an expert should be part of the document review process.

Can they become somebody that can come in and guide us to doing it in a way thats productive, meaningful (and) effective? she asked.

Later in the meeting, Goldberg again stressed this point, stating, I want to know what to look for. I want to go directly to the target. I dont want to start sitting in front of hours of video. I just dont have that capacity right now.

Seward said getting a parliamentarian should be the next step in their process.

Goldberg wondered if the committees charge is potentially opening the board to additional challenges to past actions.

There have been situations, I can assure you, that  not intentionally  things may not have been following the book to the exact details, she said.

But although much of the meetings conversation focused on mundane matters such as deciding what resources and documents the committee would need to begin its work, tempers flared as committee members took issue with Nottes participation in the meeting.

When Notte spoke again to agree with Goldberg that the board is potentially opening a can of worms, she was interrupted by Seward, who said, I didnt realize that we had public comment.

Notte shot back: I am speaking. The chair of this committee acknowledged me. The chair of the board said all board members would be able to participate equally in these committees.

At the boards May 11 meeting, Cavacas stated that Any member of the board can attend any committee meeting at any point in time, because they all are duly warned.

Seward told Notte the committee was just getting started and still brainstorming, adding, I just want to get this job done to the best of our ability.

Goldberg interjected to state that any board member can participate in all committees, and asked Notte to continue.

Notte recommended that the committee begin its work with the second objective: to identify whether the process was carried out correctly following Roberts Rules of Order.

If the Roberts Rules does not allow you to go back and pick apart meetings or change outcomes, then your charge is complete, she said.

Stoodley later added that she didnt believe the committee should take recommendations from Notte since she was not appointed to it.

Its the four of us who are charged with this, not the entire board, she said. We should be starting with No. 1, doing our own investigation and then bring somebody in when we have gotten to that point.

The committee ultimately decided to seek out an expert and begin collecting past meeting documents for review.

I agree we could get high-level, outline information without getting into the weeds  on the procedures, while we keep as our first priority to get somebody onboard to guide us, said Dages.

Superintendent Bill Olsen offered to find a parliamentarian on the committees behalf, and Assistant Superintendent Rob Bliss said the administration would provide all necessary meeting documents to the committee as needed.

The ad hoc committee will meet again at 6 p.m. June 1 and at 5 p.m. June 15.

jim.sabataso

@rutlandherald.com
Danvers, MA (01923)

Today

Chance of a morning shower. Cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. High around 70F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. Low 58F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.
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The Lee County school district moved forward with the purchase of another 1,000 laptops Tuesday during the Board of Educations Facilities and Technology Committee meeting.

The district has purchased thousands of additional laptops over the past school year as the entire student body moved to virtual learning because of COVID-19. The coronavirus pandemic revealed the need for the purchase of more technology, which also fits the districts overall goal of having a 1-to-1 student-to-laptop ratio. The district has made progress on meeting that goal, but there is no word on whether there will be a laptop for each Lee County student next year.

For now, the district plans to buy 1,000 more Chromebooks at a total cost of $245,960, according to Superintendent Andy Bryan.

Inventory is going to be really short and supply chain is going to be really overburdened, so we think we should take the opportunity to move now, Bryan said.

The purchase was approved by the Facilities and Technology committee, but must also be approved by the Finance Committee, which meets Thursday.

Also Tuesday, the committee approved a $43,290 contract with tech company Clark Powell to replace the audiovisual system in the Lee County High School meeting room for the Board of Education. The boards current system has been in place since 2012, but is becoming harder to repair as it ages, said Rebel Hunter, of the Lee County Schools IT Department.

Its run well, but as it gets a little older, weve had more and more difficulty sourcing parts and performing maintenance on the current setup, Hunter said.

The IT department proposed an entire rip and replace of the current setup in the room and kind of modernizing it and bringing on board some new features, he added.

The new system would give board members and guests easier remote access and create a better live stream for meetings, Hunter said.

Obviously the requirements for virtual meetings created by the pandemic sort of highlighted some of the needs to update this equipment, said Bryan. And it will certainly provide more opportunities for the board moving forward regardless of what the conditions might be.

The contract will next go before the full school board for approval.
The voluntary separation plan was sent Wednesday to nonunion journalists at the Sun Sentinel and other Tribune Publishing newspapers. The offer includes 12 weeks of pay for eligible employees with three or more years of continuous service, plus an additional week of pay for every year with the company. Eligible employees with less than three years of service would receive eight weeks of pay under the plan.
A recently released Treasury Department document shows that Broward County has been approved for another $67.5 million on top of the $59 million it received in January. The county has distributed just $773,283 to 60 applicants approved through a mediation program for eviction defendants. As of Tuesday, no money had gone out to any of the 5,738 who applied through a website portal that went live on April 23. By Thursday, county officials said they had approved sending $237,900 to 22 online applicants  an average of $10,814 for each.
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In line with plans for a lunar space station, Canadian technologies in collaboration with NASA are set to land a lunar rover on the Moon's polar surface in the next five years, says Science Minister, Francois-Philippe Champagne.

Canadians Conquering the Moon

The Canadian Space Agency announces an unmanned robotic vehicle to gather imagery and measurements on the cratered lunar surface. The agency expresses that the venture is in hopes of expanding and showcases Canadian entrepreneurs and scientists. The Science Minister says that Canadians will play a vital role in the competitive and innovative global supply chain of the new space economy.

In concert with NASA, the Canadian lunar mission hopes to have the rover survive through an entire lunar light, which experts say lasts for roughly two weeks and can present major technological challenges because of the extreme darkness and cold.

Lisa Campbell, president of the Canadian Space Agency, says that a request for proposals on the rover's design and development will be put up in the coming months.

ALSO READ: Elon Musk Still Pushes His Mars Agenda; What Are The Risks of Living in the Red Planet?





New Space Stations and Lunar Exploration

David Saint-Jacques, a Canadian astronaut, sporting his flight suit, was present during the virtual announcement and is slated to be one of the four Canadians to be the first to travel to the moon within the next few years.

In December of last year, a signed agreement between the Canadian government and the United States to send Canadian astronauts to the moon in an effort to establish a new space station on the lunar surface.

Newswire Canada reports an investment of $3 million in technological initiatives for lunar exploration through the Canadian Space Agency. Mission Control Space Services is set to receive $3 million for testing cutting-edge technology on the Moon's surface and lunar orbit planned for 2022. Two other Canadian companies, NGC Aerospace Ltd and Canadensys Aerospace Corporation, will demonstrate advanced technologies during the lunar missions.

At the same time, the Canadian Space Agency will be supporting numerous scientists in Canadian universities to advance understanding of the Moon's surface. $2.9 million has been allotted to develop Canadian lunar science instruments, while $4.4 million are set for advancing technologies of nano and micro rovers.

Canada's Role in Lunar Exploration

Countries from around the world are set to send humans further and further into space, well beyond the International Space Station. Roughly 400,000 kilometers from the Planet, the Moon is a critical stepping stone in humanity's quest towards Mars.

According to the Canadian Space Agency, Canada has officially announced participation in the next chapter of lunar exploration including, the Canadarm3, a smart robotic system for the Gateway project---a space station designed to orbit the moon.

In return for Canada's contribution to the Lunar Gateway, Canada will receive a range of opportunities for technology demonstration, lunar science and commercial activities, and two astronaut flights to the Moon. Likewise, a CSA astronaut is set to be part of the Artemis II missions, the first crewed mission since 1972.

RELATED ARTICLE: Will the Super Blood Moon End Relationships Tonight? Expert Says It Might Cause Break Ups

Check out more news and information on Space on Science Times.
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For the first time, after disappearing for roughly 3,000 years, a Tasmanian devil has been born in the wild in mainland Australia. After conservationists released 26 adult marsupials in the sanctuary at Barrington Tops, CBS reports.

The release marked the first steps in an attempt to re-establish a sustainable population of the endangered marsupial that has been decimated by illnesses in its habitat on the island of Tasmania.

Conservationists hoped that the decade-long effort would equal the success in the United States in the 1990s with the return of wolves in Yellowstone National Park.

Tasmanian Devil Explained

Sarcophilus harrisii, commonly known as the Tasmanian devil, is a carnivorous mammal that can live up to 5 years in the wild and grow up to 20-31 inches and weigh 9 to 26 pounds. The endangered marsupial has had a drastically decreasing population trend over the last few decades.

The famously feisty mammal has a coat of course, black or brown fur, and a stocky profile that makes them misidentified by many as baby bears. Most have patches or stripes of white on their chest and light spots on their rear or sides.

Tasmanian devils have shorter rear legs that give a lumbering piglike gait and are known as the largest carnivorous marsupial in the world. Once abundant in Australia, Tasmanian devils are now only found on the island state of Tasmania. According to National Geographic, biologists suspect that the extinction on the mainland of the marsupials roughly 400 years ago has a direct relationship with the introduction of dingoes or Asian dogs.

ALSO READ: Freshwater Fish Feared Extinct: Here's How to Safeguard Its Population





Tasmanian Devils Return to Mainland Australia

Tim Faulkner, president of the conservation group Aussie Ark, said that there was huge pressure on the time and a lot riding on the release, if the marsupials weren't able to breed, their efforts would be in vain.

Researchers have been intensely studying the world's largest carnivorous marsupial from afar since the release last year. This week, researchers celebrated the birth of 7 Tasmanian devil joeys in the roughly 1,000-acre Wildlife Sanctuary.

On Facebook, Aussie Ark said that park rangers inspected the female's pouches and found small joeys in perfect health. The conservationists are planning additional health checkups in the next few weeks to ensure the Tasmanian devils' breeding success.

The remaining Tasmanian Devil population in the island state has been devastated by contagious fatal diseases known as Devil Facial Tumor Disease that struck back in the mid-1990s. To date, the disease has killed roughly 90% of the Tasmanian devil population and will now have fewer than 25,000 local devils left, reports CBS News.

Faulkner explains that a population of Tasmanian devils far from the diseased landscape is crucial, and conservationists are thrilled by the progress thus far. Don Church, president of the Re:wild group, says that the success doesn't only have positive effects on Tasmanian devils but bodes well for other endangered species, which can be saved if reintroduced in the wild of Australia.

RELATED ARTICLES: Coelacanths: Four-Legged "Living Fossil" Fish Found in Madagascar

Check out more news and information on Endangered Animals in Science Times.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Wednesday gave Royal Caribbean Group approval to start seven-night cruises to the Caribbean on its Celebrity Cruises brand ship, Celebrity Edge, on June 26 from Port Everglades, according to a CDC spokesperson. The ship is the first to win CDC approval for revenue cruises since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
We didnt know about Roberts talent with Legos, she said. We were teaching him like everybody else. One day, by coincidence, the e-commerce department manager asked me if my participants could help sort some Legos. I told them we would try. So I gave Legos to a bunch of the workers to work with them. Thats when we discovered that Robert was extremely good at it.
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.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm has sold her ownership interest in an electric bus maker that President Joe Biden touted during a virtual visit last month.

A spokesman said Granholm sold her holdings in California-based Proterra Inc. this week, clearing a net gain of $1.6 million. The sale fulfills Granholm's obligations under an ethics agreement three months before an August deadline, the Energy Department said.

Secretary Granholm has acted in full accordance with the comprehensive ethical standards set by the Biden administration and has completed her divestment well ahead of the time required by her ethics agreement,'' spokesman Kevin Liao said in an email.

Details of the sale will be released by the Office of Government Ethics, although the timing is not certain.

Republicans had criticized Granholms holdings in the company, noting the Biden administration's focus on electric vehicles as part of its push to address climate change. Criticism grew louder after Biden's online visit to a Proterra manufacturing facility in South Carolina to highlight U.S. electric vehicle makers.

Wyoming Sen. John Barrasso, the top Republican on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, asked the Energy Department's inspector general to investigate whether Granholm's ownership in the company represented a conflict of interest. Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., a member of the House Oversight Committee, also pressed Granholm for details on her relationship to Proterra.

Granholm, a former Proterra board member, pledged during her confirmation hearing to recuse herself from any matters with a direct and predictable effect on the financial interests of Proterra'' until she completed sale of her interest in the company.

Granholm and the White House said she had nothing to do with the planning of Biden's online visit.

Granholm, a former Michigan governor, is a longtime proponent of electric vehicles and has promoted their use as energy secretary, calling them a key part of Biden's climate strategy.

The Energy Department said Granholm's stock sale came 89 days after she was sworn in as energy secretary, less than half the 180 days required by her ethics agreement.

Barrasso said Thursday that Granholm "actively promoted electric vehicles and electric vehicle batteries'' even as she owned stock in a prominent EV maker. While she sold the stock, her actions appear to be a significant conflict of interest,'' Barrasso said.

Inspector General Teri L. Donaldson told Barrasso in a letter that she is evaluating the concerns he raised and will determine what next steps may be appropriate.''
A police officer who arrived shortly after the crash tried to help Eveillard, who was seriously injured and still trapped in his car. But the officer couldnt get Eveillard out by himself. He had to be cut from the wreckage by fire rescue crews.
PHOENIX (AP)  Contentious division among Republican lawmakers about a state budget deal negotiated between GOP Gov. Doug Ducey and majority Republican legislative leaders is in the forefront as the Arizona House delayed a scheduled Wednesday debate.

Numerous Republican members of the House and Senate have expressed disdain for the deal. Some are opposed because of spending they say goes against their conservative fiscal beliefs, while others are concerned that a massive tax cut could hurt cities or undermine the state's finances.

The added spending, which includes nearly $160 million for roads alone and pay raises for many state workers, brought some GOP members on board. But it was clear Wednesday that Republicans, who hold just one-vote majorities in both chambers and lack any Democratic support for the $12.8 billion spending plan, did not have enough support.

Early Wednesday evening, the spokesman for Arizona House Republicans, Andrew Wilder, confirmed debate on the budget would not happen until at least Thursday, after hours of delays. Two hours later, Senate President Karen Fann announced that the House planned to adjourn until sometime after the Memorial Day weekend, possibly as late as June 10.

Fann, however, told members she plans to debate and hopefully pass the budget out of the Senate on Thursday.

That may be ambitious, since at least two Senate Republicans have concerns with the deal Fann, House Speaker Rusty Bowers and GOP Gov. Doug Ducey have agreed upon.

It's pretty dang clear we dont have the votes, Sen. T.J. Shope of Coolidge, a Republican who backs the plan, said Wednesday morning. I dont know at what point we pull the plug."

Another Republican, Sen. Paul Boyer of Glendale, said he was concerned about the huge tax cut and several other provisions in the plan.

It's really a long-term concern for the state of Arizona, Boyer said on KJZZ radio Wednesday morning. What does that do if and when we have an economic crisis? Are we prepared for it, especially if we're cutting a third of our income to our state.

Boyer told The Associated Press in a text message early Wednesday afternoon that he had just left negotiations with the governors office on city funding, a main point of contention for some lawmakers. He said no deal was in place. Separately, GOP Sen. Michelle Ugenti-Rita has said she thinks the budget spends too much money,

A group that represents cities and towns is pushing for changes to address what it says will be a $280 million-a-year hit to tax revenue its members get as a share of the state income tax. Several Republicans say they cant back the plan unless those concerns are addressed. The League of Arizona Cities and Towns is requesting an increase in the 15% share of income tax cities now receive.

Republican Rep. Jake Hoffman, a freshman from Queen Creek, is opposed to some of the spending in the plan. He voted against all 11 budget bills in the House Appropriations Committee on Tuesday. He said he's looking forward to changes that will secure his and other like-minded GOP members' votes. And GOP Rep. David Cook of Globe has numerous concerns he said Tuesday that leadership and Ducey have not addressed.

The opposition from Republicans puts Fann and Bowers in difficult positions, because trying to woo one side could easily lose votes on the other. And some of those members who agreed to the massive tax cut, which works out to $1.9 billion once it is fully in place in three years, could fall off the plan if spending on projects like roads, universities and other priorities is cut to appease the fiscal hawks.

Democrats are solidly opposed to the tax cuts, saying the state still has too many needs to slash revenue.

The proposed cuts include $1.5 billion to eliminate the state's graduated income tax rate and replace it with a flat 2.5% rate for all income levels  a cut of more than 25% of all income tax revenue. Also included is a provision that uses general fund revenue to shield the wealthy from a new 3.5% tax surcharge voters approved in November to fund education. That will cost about $400 million a year and leave high earners paying just 4.5% total tax instead of 8%.. Other tax provisions include a small increase in a child tax credit and a cut in business property tax rates.

There are certain things that brought people on to that budget  that made them OK with voting for the flat tax  that are the very things that other people are opposed to in the spending part, Shope said.

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This story has been corrected to show that Rep. Jake Hoffman represents Queen Creek, not Apache Junction.
PHOENIX (AP)  The Arizona Senate on Thursday pulled the plug on a plan to vote on a budget and instead adjourned until June 10 unless they break the impasse earlier on the $12.8 billion spending plan.

Republican Senate President Karen Fann announced Thursday afternoon that her hopes of getting all 16 Republican members to back the deal she reached with House Speaker Rusty Bowers and Gov. Doug Ducey had fallen though. Some members complained about too much spending while others worry the tax cuts are too large.

The House reached the same conclusion Wednesday, adjourning until June 10 unless they can reach a deal with their members sooner. With only a one-vote majority in each chamber and no Democratic support for the budget deal that includes a massive tax cut, Republicans could only lose one vote.

We thought we were really, really close to getting a budget done today, heads up or heads down, whichever, Fann told the assembled senators. And over the last less than 12 hours were further apart now than we were. A lot of new requests, a lot of new demands."

So it would be futile for us to try and put this up, she said. We obviously need to get things back together again and figure out where were going to go from here.

It had been clear all week that neither the House nor the Senate had the votes. But Fann had forged ahead, repeatedly saying she would have a vote Thursday.

Republican Sen. Paul Boyer of Glendale remained opposed, even as Fann worked on a series of amendments to try to shore up support. Boyer told The Associated Press Thursday morning that his concerns with the spending plan and its $1.9 billion in tax cuts are broad.

I still think we need to pay down more on debt and gimmicks, Boyer said. I am concerned about the scope and the permanency of the tax cut.

Boyer also said universities, community colleges and education in general need more spending, making particular note of the 700,000 Arizona adults he said do not have a high school diploma or its equivalent.

And then of course theres the elephant the room  we cant hurt the cities, Boyer said. So in other words, theres a lot, theres a lot that we still need to work on.

Senate Democrats released a statement calling the budget stalemate and the Republican decision to stop work a disservice to the people of Arizona who look up to us as leaders."

While Democrats are ready to fight for a budget that rebuilds, revitalizes and reinvests in Arizonans, Republicans have decided to take a vacation instead of working with us to pass a peoples budget. When we return, theyll continue forcing through a budget that completely ignores the critical needs of Arizonans, like investing in our schools, childrens health care, teacher pay, affordable housing and more in favor of tax cuts that mainly benefit the wealthy and big business, the statement said.

Boyer isnt alone among Republicans, who narrowly control the Legislature, in voicing concerns for city finances. GOP Rep. Joanne Osborne of Goodyear said earlier this week she is worried that the tax cuts will affect cities and vowed to withhold her support in the House unless it is addressed.

A group that represents cities and towns is pushing for changes to address what it says will be a $280 million-a-year hit to tax revenue its members get as a share of the state income tax. The League of Arizona Cities and Towns is requesting an increase in the 15% share of income tax that cities now receive.

On the other side, fiscally conservative GOP members who said the budget has too much spending and oppose a tax exemption for veterans' military pensions are holding out for major changes. That led to the House calling off a budget debate on Wednesday.

Bowers, the Republican House speaker, said in a interview that there is a way to satisfy the cities' concerns.

We are looking at holding harmless ... cities for two to three years and then smaller rural communities, keeping them all as we move along, Bowers said. We have money to make it work.

Bowers was less hopeful about his ability to get the members who oppose some of the spending and tax cuts on board, although he said he's working at it.

They're just going to have to choose the vision, and well see if we can work things out, he said. And were making a good stab at where we see legitimate opportunities to come together. Staff and members are working with them to try to bridge those gaps. But it's up to them. If we can't bridge, then we can't bridge.

Bowers was full of praise for many of his members, those he said were on kind of an honor roll" and working for their districts and for a solid budget deal.

"There's a bunch of people here who are really, really good team players, and I intend to let them know how much I appreciate it," he said.

If lawmakers do not return by June 10, they will have less than three weeks to pass a new budget before state funding runs out at the end of the fiscal year. .The states 2022 fiscal year begins July 1.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The chief executives of the nations largest banks went in front of Congress for a second day Thursday, facing questions ranging from inflation to their efforts to keep Americans in their homes after government aid to pandemic-hit mortgage holders expires this summer.

The House hearing comes after senators on Wednesday questioned the six CEOs on topics including climate change, voting rights and racial inequities. House members spent much of Thursday's hearing asking detailed industry policy questions.

This was the second hearing Rep. Maxine Waters, D-California and chairwoman of the House Financial Services Committee, has held with the big bank CEOs since Democrats took control of the House in 2019. In the earlier hearing, many of the same CEOs were questioned about their commitments to diversity and about the fees they charge customers.

Waters focused most of her questioning on the potential tide of foreclosures this summer once government aid programs come to an end. There are still roughly 2 million homes in some sort of forbearance, which is down significantly from the height of the pandemic but still involves millions of struggling families.

I want commitments from all of you that these people are not going to lose their homes, Waters said.

In response, the bank CEOs who have mortgage businesses  Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citigroup and JPMorgan Chase  all said they planned to continue offering flexibility to borrowers even past the expiration date.

The CEOs are appearing as the U.S. economy is recovering from the recession triggered by the coronavirus pandemic. Big banks profits surged in the first three months of this year as the recovery has taken hold. They were able to release billions of dollars from their reserves originally set aside in the early days of the pandemic last year for potential losses on their loans.

The banking industry, which was blamed for the Great Recession more than a decade ago, has spent most of 2020 and this year stressing its efforts to work with borrowers and businesses. Banks across the country waived fees and put millions of mortgages into forbearance to shore up Americans distressed finances in the pandemic.

CEOs like JPMorgan's Jamie Dimon, Goldman Sachs' David Solomon and Bank of America's Brian Moynihan all came to the hearing sharing similar comments they made at Wednesday's hearing  that the industry is here to help through the pandemic and that the banking system is strong. One new face in front of Congress compared to 2019 is Jane Fraser, the new CEO of Citigroup and the first woman to run a Wall Street firm.

Republicans focused much of their questioning on issues related to U.S. competitiveness with China, rising levels of government debt, as well as the issue of banks choosing not to provide financing to coal companies, gun manufacturers or other controversial industries.

Your actions would shut down legal American businesses. I would say your actions are not working to advance the economy but actively working against it, said Missouri Republican Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer.

Goldman Sachs' Solomon said that industries like coal are legacy industries but banks will be there to help those companies transition into new technologies.

There will be new technologies that will create new, even better paying jobs, something that America has always led in, he said.

Luetkemeyer and other Republicans also pushed on the fact that many of these big banks actively seek to do business in China, which has been accused of numerous human rights violations.

Several members on Congress also asked the CEOs about inflation. Trillions of dollars have been spent under former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden to combat the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. The economic recovery is well underway, but prices for things such as lumber, steel and gasoline have risen sharply in recent months.

When asked whether inflation is an issue, JPMorgan's Dimon said that inflation was heating up, but we are not boiling yet. Solomon echoed the comments from Dimon, saying that the economy was not overheating yet but I would be cautious.

The CEOs were also asked for their opinion on digital currencies like Bitcoin, which have soared in value the past 18 months, but recently have been extremely volatile. The currencies have also been used in criminal activities, like the ransomware attack on a East Coast pipeline company earlier this month.

My own personal view is it's nothing like a fiat currency, it's nothing like gold. Buyer beware," Dimon said bluntly.
KIGALI, Rwanda (AP)  In a key speech on his visit to Rwanda, French President Emmanuel Macron said he recognizes that France bears a heavy responsibility for the 1994 genocide in the central African country.

Macron solemnly detailed how France had failed the 800,000 victims of the genocide but he stopped short of an apology.

France was not an accomplice in the genocide but ended up siding with Rwandas genocidal regime" and bore an overwhelming responsibility in the slide toward the massacres, the French leader said, speaking Thursday at the genocide memorial in the capital, Kigali.

France has a role, a history and a political responsibility in Rwanda. It has a duty: That of looking history in the face and recognizing the suffering that it inflicted on the Rwandan people by favoring silence over the examination of truth for too long, Macron said.

When the genocide started, the international community took close to three months, three interminable months, before reacting and we, all of us, abandoned hundreds of thousands of victims.

Frances failures contributed to 27 years of bitter distance between the two countries, he said.

I have to come to recognize our responsibilities, Macron said.

Although Macron didnt apologize, he won praise from Rwandan President Paul Kagame for his powerful speech.

His words were something more valuable than an apology, they were the truth, Kagame said. This was an act of tremendous courage.

Kagame and Macron both signaled that a page had been turned in France-Rwanda ties.

This visit is about the future, not the past, Kagame said, adding that he and Macron discussed a range of issues, including investment and support for businesses.

Macron said they were opening a new page and rebuilding ties that are strong and irreversible. He said that he asked to be able to appoint a French ambassador to Rwanda, after six years where France has been without one in the country.

Appearing to explain his lack of apology, Macron said: A genocide cannot be excused, one lives with it.

Instead, he explained that he decided to apply the white light of truth to Frances role in the genocide and recognize its responsibilities.

This recognition is what I can give. A pardon is not mine to give, Macron said, promising beefed-up efforts to bring genocide suspects to justice.

Macron also said that hed come with 100,000 coronavirus vaccines for Rwanda.

Rwandans who had hoped for an apology said they were disappointed by Macrons speech.

We dont want to hear him talk about responsibility, about Frances role in the genocide," genocide survivor Dan Karenzi told The Associated Press. "We, the survivors, wanted to hear Macron apologizing to us officially. I am really disappointed.

The opposition Rwandese Platform for Democracy party tweeted ahead of Macrons speech that it hoped he would apologize honestly and promise to pay reparations to genocide victims.

Macron arrived in Kigali early Thursday and met Kagame at the presidential residence. Macron then toured the memorial to the frenzied 1994 slaughter in which Hutu extremists killed mainly minority Tutsis and moderate Hutus who tried to protect them.

Macrons trip builds on a series of French efforts since his election in 2017 to repair ties between the two countries.

Two reports completed in March and in April that examined Frances role in the genocide helped clear a path for Macrons visit, the first by a French president in 11 years.

The previous visit, by Nicolas Sarkozy in 2010, was the first by a French leader after the 1994 massacre sent relations into a tailspin. Rwandas government and genocide survivor organizations often accused France of training and arming militias and former government troops who led the genocide.

Kagame, who has been Rwandas de facto leader since 1994 and its president since 2000, has won praise abroad for restoring order and making advances in economic development and health care. But rights watchdogs, dissidents, and others accuse Kagame of harsh rule.

___

Leicester contributed from Le Pecq, France.
SANAA, Yemen (AP)  An aid worker suffered mortal wounds when he was apparently caught in crossfire earlier this week in southern Yemen, an international charity said Wednesday.

The shooting took place Monday at a checkpoint when a vehicle carrying two workers for the humanitarian group Oxfam was travelling to the port city of Aden, the group said.

The workers and their driver, all Yemeni nationals, were wounded and taken to a hospital. One of the workers, Fathi al-Zurigi, died Tuesday, Oxfam said.

The shooting circumstances were unclear, but the group said there was no reason to believe its workers were targeted.

The other worker was discharged Wednesday while the driver was still in an intensive care unit, but his condition was stable, it said.

It is a heart-wrenching sadness to lose a colleague, particularly in such terrible circumstances, said Gabriela Bucher, Oxfams executive director. Humanitarian workers across the world, like Fathi, risk their own lives every day.

Humanitarian providers have faced numerous risks in war-torn Yemen, where millions of people depend on aid for survival.

Yemen has been embroiled in a civil war war since 2014, when Houthi rebels swept across much of the north and seized the capital, Sanaa, forcing the government of President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi into exile. A Saudi-led coalition entered the war the following year on the side of Hadi's government

The stalemated war has created the worlds worst humanitarian crisis.
JERUSALEM (AP)  Israeli police said Wednesday that an officer involved in shooting a Palestinian teen in the courtyard of her east Jerusalem home last week has been suspended pending an investigation.

Jana Kiswani, 16, said she was standing just outside the front gate of her home in the flashpoint neighborhood of Sheikh Jarrah when a police officer ordered her, her brother and father to go into their house. Kiswani said she was shot in the back with a rubber-coated bullet. She was hospitalized with a broken vertebra.
MEXICO CITY (AP)  Yet another mayoral candidate in north-central Mexico has been killed, bringing to 34 the number of candidates murdered nationwide ahead of the June 6 elections.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Wednesday the killing was without doubt the work of organized crime gangs. The Etellekt consulting firm said the overwhelming majority of the 34 slain candidates were vying for nominations or running for local posts.

Alma Barragan was killed Tuesday while campaigning for the mayorship of the city of Moroleon in violence-plagued Guanajuato state.

Experts say drug gangs want to place sympathetic candidates in town halls and city governments, so they can operate without interference from police and extort money from local businesses and government budgets.

Lopez Obrador said the gangs were killing candidates to scare voters away from the polls.

When there is a lot of abstentionism, the mafias dominate the elections, the president said.

Barragan was running on the ticket of the small Citizen's Movement party, which said in a statement that, It is unthinkable that participating in political life means putting one's life at risk.

This is the most violent election in Mexican history, and in Citizen's Movement we are not willing to act as if that is normal.

Moroleon is located near the border with Michoacan state, also hit by drug cartel violence. The insurgent Jalisco cartel has been fighting local gangs backed by the Sinaloa cartel for control of Guanajuato.
One of the perks, the local travel budget, was written to fund commissioners travel within 100 miles of City Hall and was separate from an existing $55,000 out-of-town travel budget. Bolton said he would agree to drop the local travel budget but claimed, despite its name, that it wasnt meant to fund travel, saying it has the wrong title and wrong connotation.
VATICAN CITY (AP)  Pope Francis has kissed the tattoo of an Auschwitz survivor during a general audience.

Lidia Maksymowicz, a Polish citizen who was deported to Auschwitz from her native Belarus by the age of 3, showed the pope the number tattooed on her arm by the Nazis, and Francis leaned over and kissed it on Wednesday.

Maksymowicz told Vatican News that she didn't exchange words with the pope.

We understood each other with a glance, she said.

Maksymowicz has participated in events sponsored by Sant'Egidio aimed at educating youth about the Holocaust. She spent three years in the children's area of the camp, and was subjected to experiments by Josef Mengele, known as the Angel of Death. When the camp was freed, she was taken in by a Polish family.

The pope has paid tribute to Holocaust survivors in the past, including a 2014 visit to Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial in Israel and a visit in February to the Rome apartment of a survivor, 88-year-old Hungarian-born writer and poet Edith Bruck.

The Vatican said that during the hour-long visit, Francis told her: I came to thank you for your witness and to pay homage to the people martyred by the craziness of Nazi populism.

And with sincerity I repeat the words I pronounced from my heart at Yad Vashem, and that I repeat in front of every person who, like you, suffered so much because of this: Forgive, Lord, in the name of humanity, the pontiff told Bruck, according to the Vaticans account of the private meeting.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP)  Three-quarters of Californias district attorneys sued the state Wednesday in an attempt to block emergency rules that expand good conduct credits and could eventually bring earlier releases for tens of thousands of inmates.

The lawsuit objects on procedural grounds, arguing that Corrections Secretary Kathleen Allison used the emergency declaration to bypass the usual regulatory and public comment process.

The rules affecting 76,000 inmates, most serving time for violent offenses, took effect May 1, although it will be months or years until inmates accumulate enough credits to significantly shorten their sentences.

Forty-four of the state's 58 district attorneys brought the lawsuit, which says the only stated emergency was the corrections department's desire to follow the "direction outlined in the Governors Budget Summary nearly a year earlier. Notably absent were district attorneys in Los Angeles and San Francisco who have backed criminal sentencing changes.

The lawsuit asks a Sacramento County Superior Court judge to throw out the regulations and bar the department from granting any of the good conduct credits until it goes through the regular process.

There is no actual emergency, and they cannot meet those emergency requirements, the lawsuit contends. Nowhere in the supporting documents is there an explanation of how last year's budget has become an operational need for the adoption of the regulations on an emergency basis.

The department said it acted under the authority given it by voters when they passed Proposition 57 in 2016, allowing earlier parole for most inmates.

It filed regulations to promote changes in good behavior credits, and followed all policies and procedures by the Office of Administrative Law, the department said in a statement promising to continue to work with our partners to promote rehabilitation and accountability in a manner consistent with public safety.

The emergency rules boost good behavior credits for a projected 63,000 inmates convicted of violent crimes, allowing them to prospectively serve two-thirds of their sentences rather than the previous 80%.

Another 10,000 prisoners convicted of a second serious but nonviolent offense and nearly 2,900 nonviolent third strikers would be eligible for release after serving half their sentences, down from two-thirds.

Inmate firefighters and minimum-security inmates in work camps, regardless of the severity of their crimes, are eligible under the new rules for a month of earlier release for every month they spend in the camp.

Allowing the early release of the most dangerous criminals, shortening sentences as much as 50%, impacts crime victims and creates a serious public safety risk," Sacramento County District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert said in a statement. She has led the opposition and is running for state attorney general as an independent.
BAGHDAD (AP)  Tensions mounted in Iraq's capital on Wednesday after the arrest of a militia commander on terrorism charges, prompting a dangerous showdown by the detainee's paramilitary supporters and the Iraqi government.

The confrontation began after Iraqi security forces arrested at dawn militia leader Qassim Mahmoud Musleh based on a judicial investigation and arrest warrant on terrorism charges, Iraq's military said in a statement. The statement said he was being questioned by a joint investigative committee.

Musleh is the head of the Popular Mobilization Forces in Anbar province. The PMF is a state-sanctioned group comprised of an array of militias formed to defeat the Islamic State group in 2014. Among the most powerful members of the group are Iran-backed Shiite militia groups.

Shortly after the arrest, forces affiliated with the PMF, which maintains offices inside the heavily fortified Green Zone, were deployed surrounding Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi's headquarters.

Tensions reached fever pitch when Iraqi security forces and the elite Counter-Terrorism Service were deployed to protect the government and diplomatic missions, sparking fears of violence. Some armed PMF factions gathered around the Green Zone's entrance gates.

The presence of the PMF inside the seat of Iraq's government was considered by some senior Iraqi government officials as a way to pressure al-Kadhimi to release Musleh.

The prime minister described the show of force as a serious violation of the Iraqi constitution and the laws in force," adding in a statement we have directed an immediate investigation into these movements.

Al-Kadhimi later held a meeting with senior Shiite political leaders who hold sway over the PMF. The premier also ordered the formation of an investigative committee comprised of intelligence from both defense and interior ministries and the PMF security and National Security.

Three PMF officials said after the meeting Musleh was transferred from the custody of the Joint Operations Command, which oversees an array of Iraqi security forces, to PMF security.

An Iraqi intelligence official said Musleh's arrest was recommended by the Anti-Corruption Committee headed by Lt. Gen. Ahmed Abu Ragheef, and was done based on a judicial order. The charges accuse Musleh of corruption and complicity in the assassinations of Iraqi activists in the southern city of Karbala. All four officials spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the subject.

The incident highlights the government's struggles to assert the rule of law and reign in powerful militia groups. Attempts to arrest militia-affiliated individuals in the past have unfolded along a similar pattern: Pressure from militia groups and concessions on the part of the government.

A raid carried out by the CTS last summer against the Iran-backed Kataib Hezbollah led to over a dozen arrests. All were eventually released after pressure and threats of escalatory violence against the government.

The rising number of assassination of outspoken activists sparked outrage and protests this week particularly after prominent protest organizer Ehab al-Wazni was gunned down in Karbala this month.

International condemnation flooded in from the United Nations and other diplomatic missions in Baghdad.

Any arrest case should run its course, as goes for any Iraqi, tweeted U.N. Special Representative to Iraq Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert. Nobody should resort to a show of force to get their way. Such behavior weakens the Iraqi state and further erodes public trust. State institutions must be respected at all times. Nobody is above the law.
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As guidelines evolve, local camps prepare for pandemic-altered season

Courtesy of Camp Takodah Campers will return to YMCA Camp Takodah in Richmond this summer, with cabins functioning as cohorts in which masks and social distancing will not be required. These precautions will be in effect, however, when campers and staff interact with anyone outside their cohort, according to Director Ryan Reed.

After the COVID-19 pandemic led YMCA Camp Takodah to cancel last years summer season for the first time in more than a century, campers will be back on-site in Richmond in just over a month.

And for the most part, camp will feel fairly normal, Director Ryan Reed said, with plenty of sports, swimming and arts and crafts, all mostly outdoors.

The camp experience will remain largely the same, there will just be masks now, and some testing, and things like that, he said. ... So if youre a camper whos come to camp in the past, this summer will feel very similar.

But with many camp-aged kids still ineligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, New Hampshire has outlined guidance for overnight camps like Takodah to follow this summer.

Unless all the campers are vaccinated  meaning all the ones from 10 to 15  camp will look different, said Doug Sutherland, executive director of Brantwood Camp in Greenfield. And because that most likely will not happen, camp will look different this year.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration earlier this month extended emergency use authorization for the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine to children 12-15, making that the youngest age group eligible for the shot.

The state health departments best practices for overnight camps, issued April 29, include asking campers and staff members to get tested before their arrival, the day they arrive and again within their first five to seven days at camp.

Additionally, the guidance says overnight camps should keep small groups of campers and staff separate from each other so cabins can act like individual households.

Camp will be a lot like how families have operated, Reed said of Camp Takodahs plan. So if youre in a cabin of campers  10 campers and two staff members  in that cohort, masks are not required, social distancing is not required.

But when campers and staff members interact with anyone outside of their cohort, they will be required to maintain physical distancing, and wear masks, Reed added.

All of this state guidance could change, though, Reed said, as federal guidelines for summer camps continue to evolve and the vaccine rollout progresses. He noted that New Hampshires guidance for summer camps has shifted several times over the past few months. This has made planning for the summer challenging, said Mark Stehlik, executive director of Camp Glen Brook in Marlborough.

Its by far the most logistically complicated summer camp weve had to plan, he said. And the changing guidelines have presented real challenges for how we plan ahead, but everyone has been adaptable to the changes to provide a safe and fun summer camp experience.

Reed added that he believes the state could further loosen its coronavirus protocols for summer camp in the next several weeks.

And we certainly would be open to that, he said.

Even if that does happen, though, Sutherland said he plans to keep Brantwood Camps policies the same throughout the summer.

People will be wearing a mask even if they are vaccinated. People will be distancing, even if they are vaccinated. Thats what were doing this summer, he said. ... At camp, we have to have some sort of consistency.

While Reed said Camp Takodah expects all of its staff members to be vaccinated against COVID-19, other area camps say theyre not requiring the shot.

We are strongly encouraging vaccinations. We are not requiring them for staff members, Sutherland said of Brantwood Camps policy. For campers, the same thing.

Ashley Engelbrecht, camp director at the Keene Family YMCA, which operates a traditional summer day camp and a gymnastics day camp, said the Y isnt requiring vaccines, either.

But Im finding that the staff that have come and applied have offered me their vaccine card, she said.

Dan Smith, CEO of the Keene Family YMCA, said the organization still highly encourages staff members to get vaccinated, but trusts its existing COVID-19 protocols like masking, distancing and dividing kids into cohorts will limit transmission. He added that the Y has not seen any COVID-19 cases transmitted within its child care and afterschool programs this year.

The Swanzey Recreation Department, which runs a day camp at Swanzey Lake, isnt mandating the vaccine, either, but Recreation Director Ashlee Crosby said many staff members are getting vaccinated voluntarily.

We have a lot of staff coming from the [Monadnock Regional] School District, so I have a feeling a lot of them will be fully vaccinated before summer camp begins, she said.

Day camps like those in Swanzey and at the Keene Family YMCA dont have the same sort of state guidelines as overnight camps, but still plan to follow similar procedures, like separating campers and staff into cohorts, and maximizing time outdoors.

Even with all of the changes to summer camp this year, though, Sutherland at Brantwood Camp said the experience can help provide a sense of normalcy for kids again.

Everything that weve been doing since this all started has been towards this summer. All the stressors, all the phone calls and meetings, the near-constant Zoom webinars, have been geared towards this summer, Sutherland said. ... Everythings been so different this year that camp can be that thing thats familiar. Even though it will look different, camp will be what its always been.
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The environmental groups, which included the Dutch chapter of Greenpeace, filed the suit in 2019 on behalf of 17,000 Dutch citizens. The groups had argued RDS was in breach of its obligation to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.

The ruling could set a precedent for similar cases against polluting multinationals, particularly petroleum companies, around the world.

In a landmark case brought by seven environmental groups, a Dutch court Wednesday ordered energy company Royal Dutch Shell (RDS) to cut its carbon emissions by net 45 percent from 2019 levels by 2030.

In her decision, Hague District Court Judge Larissa Alwin ruled that since the Anglo-Dutch energy giant currently has a plan to reduce emissions and was still developing it, it is not currently in breach of its obligation, as the groups argued.

But the judge said a violation of that obligation is imminent, as the company's policy "is not concrete, has many caveats and is based on monitoring social developments rather than the company's own responsibility for achieving a CO2 reduction."

She ordered the company to make the 45-percent cuts by 2030, which would be in line with the 2016 Paris Agreement on climate change.

The case in the Netherlands is the latest in a string of legal challenges filed around the world by climate activists seeking action to rein in emissions, but it is believed to be the first targeting a multinational company.

In statement ahead of the ruling, RDS has said litigation will do little to accelerate the world's transition away from fossil fuels.
Supporters say the statement recognizes a reality: that white people have traditionally had advantages, such having better access to good schools and teachers than Black students. They are less likely to be met with suspicion from police and other authority figures if they are walking into a store or a new neighborhood or playing with a toy gun, they say.
Chef Carlos Altamiranos acclaimed Peruvian restaurant La Costanera is reopening at a sprawling, new oceanfront location in Half Moon Bay, on June 3.

Spanning 10,000-square feet, the two-level restaurant space features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Pillar Point Harbor. The new space will seat 104 people upstairs, 68 people downstairs and an additional 62 on a patio. The restaurant had remained closed in its previous location since the Bay Areas shelter-in-place orders went into effect in March 2020.

Altamiranos popular seafood-heavy menu returns at this location too. Expect dishes like a variety of ceviche featuring raw fish marinated in leche de tigre, the spicy, citrusy marinade typically used in Peruvian ceviches. Mains include pan-seared scallops served with picantito de choclo, a savory Peruvian corn sauce and roasted fish that comes in paprika sauce and a side of coconut rice. The restaurant will open for dinner service June 3 with a weekend brunch starting on June 12.

Ian Chen/La Costanera

Thieves broke into La Costaneras original location shortly after the states shelter-in-place order. They spent two days at the restaurant and made off with cash, smashed cameras, and drank the restaurants sparkling wine. A restaurant manager estimated that restaurant lost upwards of $10,000 in cash and damages due to the incident.

A spokesperson for La Costanera told The Chronicle via email that the move had nothing to do with the burglary. Restrictions like parking, noise ordinances and hours of operation contributed to the change, the spokesperson said.

La Costanera is the jewel in Altamiranos Bay Area Peruvian restaurant empire, which includes other hits like Portero Hills Mochica, tapas bar Piqueos and the newly opened Mission District spot Sanguchon. Since its opening in 2009, La Costanera received one Michelin star on at least two separate occassions before its closure last year.

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

La Costanera, 260 Capistrano Road, dinner Tuesday through Sunday 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., brunch starting June 12, Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., www.lacostanerarestaurant.com

Tanay Warerkar is the San Francisco Chronicles assitant food and wine editor. Email: tanay.warerkar@sfchronicle.com. Twitter: @tanaywarerkar
Mr. Holmes Bakehouse, the cult-favorite San Francisco bakery that went mysteriously dark after a brief reopening last summer, has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and its CEO is no longer with the company.

All the bakery operations, including the location on Larkin Street in San Francisco and an outpost in Los Angeles, have shut down for now, according to former CEO Aaron Caddel. Court documents show the company filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in February. Its a sharp turn of events for the wildly popular bakery known for its Instagrammable cruffins (a croissant-muffin hybrid), long lines and meteoric rise.

Caddel said hes no longer involved with the company after an acquisition fell apart in the wake of the pandemic. A coffee company, which Caddel declined to name, acquired Mr. Holmes Bakehouse toward the end of 2019, and they planned to join forces to launch a craft coffee and pastry business, Caddel said. He put all of Mr. Holmes Bakehouses assets into a new company as part of the acquisition.

Then, when the coronavirus hit a few months later, the coffee company pulled out of the sale, Caddel said, leaving him to pick up the pieces of a business he was no longer a majority shareholder in. The Chronicle has reached out to the attorneys for parties in the bankruptcy case; they did not immediately respond to interview requests.

We got this company whos acting in self-preservation and then we are getting the short end of that stick, Caddel said. As expected, our investors got pissed, and litigation ensued against the acquiring company.

Outwardly, though, Mr. Holmes Bakehouse appeared to be making things work in the early months of the pandemic. Within 24 hours of closing down retail operations, Caddel launched an online store and national shipping, selling at-home baking kits that became enormously popular. The San Francisco and Los Angeles stores briefly reopened for pickup and delivery last June.

But then the companys normally hyperactive social media pages went quiet. Customers posts asking when the bakeries would return went unanswered. The Larkin Street bakery has remained dark, its storefront completely covered in graffiti. Company emails bounced back, and the Mr. Holmes website was taken down.

Elena Kadvany / The Chronicle

Caddel, meanwhile, has moved on from the buzzy bakery empire he built and once planned to grow ambitiously across the globe. Even if the legal process ends in the companys favor, he wont return to Mr. Holmes Bakehouse, he said.

Intsead, hes moved to North Carolina, where hes working as a consultant and in real estate. He doesnt miss the 16-hour shifts  or the impossible balancing act of keeping shareholders, customers and employees happy.

I love hospitality, I will until the end, but I do not think theres a point where I get back on the horse for the hospitality industry, he said.

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

Caddel opened Mr. Holmes Bakehouse in San Francisco in 2014 with then pastry chef and co-owner Ry Stephen. The bakerys inventive, colorful creations soon went viral and sold out frequently. They opened outposts in Los Angeles and Seoul, Korea, and expanded into the wholesale business. (Stephen later left and opened his own bakery, Supermoon Bakehouse, in New York City.)

Its unclear how these new developments will impact pre-pandemic plans to open 18 international franchise locations in the Middle East and Singapore.

But whatever happens with any legal action or bankruptcy proceedings, Caddel is done. He has not put my name on any document to receive money back, he said.

Im the jockey that everybody bet on. Its like the captain that has to go down with the ship, he said. Im not going to get back in the ship if it ever gets back up.

Elena Kadvany is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: elena.kadvany@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ekadvany
With a hailstorm of bullets and eight victims dead, San Jose on Wednesday joined a fast-growing list of cities terrorized by mass shootings, a trend that has begun accelerating as the pandemic and shutdown orders come to an end.

The massacre at a light-rail facility near the citys downtown area marked the nations fifth mass shooting in a year that hasnt yet reached its halfway point, according to a data set by Mother Jones. This is compared with two mass shootings in all of 2020, a year defined by stay-home orders and, accordingly, few public gatherings.

At a rate of one per month, this years mass shootings are on pace to meet or exceed the number of incidents in recent years before the pandemic, where the data set reports 10 in 2019, 12 in 2018 and 11 in 2017.

A big factor in the rise of reported mass shootings is the simple fact that with the pandemic easing, more people are returning to work and gathering in public. To have mass victims, a killer needs to have masses to target.

Absolutely this is the case, said Hans Steiner, an author and professor emeritus of psychology at Stanford University who specializes in the psychology of mass murderers. Now that people are being freed, going out and about, whatever theyve been keeping inside they will unleash.

But while terrifying on its own, experts say this mass-shooting trend doesnt capture the full scale of gun violence in the U.S. Thats because Mother Jones definition of a mass shooting  as well as the FBIs definition of a mass murderer  includes only instances in which there were at least four casualties. The nonprofit news outlet also excludes shootings stemming from more conventionally motivated crimes such as armed robbery or gang violence.

Other data sets that broaden their scope to include gun violence injuries show a far different track  one that actually gained steam at the height of the pandemic. The Gun Violence Archive, a nonprofit research group that culls its data from law enforcement, government, media and commercial sources, counted 610 incidents in which at least four people were shot last year, compared with 417 in 2019 and 336 in 2018.

It also tracked more incidents in which at least four people were killed by a firearm, with 17 such incidents through March 26 of this year, 23 last year and 36 in 2019. A Chronicle analysis of the data showed that gun violence soared last year to the highest point since at least 2014 even as mass casualty shootings fell to their lowest level in the same period.

Wednesdays shooting at the Valley Transportation Authority rail yard, where a shooter killed eight people, then himself, is the deadliest in the Bay Area since a shooting at 101 California St. in San Francisco on July 1, 1993.

That 1993 shooting spree lasted four minutes and covered three different floors in the building, also leaving eight people dead along with the killer, Gian Luigi Ferri, who was found dead on a stairway with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. A motive for the ambush was never determined.

More recently, a gunman in Orange County opened fire at a small office complex on March 31, killing four victims, including one child, and injuring one. On July 28, 2019, a shooter with an assault-style rifle killed three people at the Gilroy Garlic Festival and wounded 12 before being killed by police.

While shootings with a large number of casualties are most likely to capture the publics attention, the singular focus on death can obscure the day-to-day reality of U.S. gun violence, said T. Christian Heyne, vice president of policy at anti-gun violence organization Brady.

Under the Gun Violence Archive definition, there have been 231 mass casualty shootings in the U.S. so far in 2021 more than one per day.

At least one researcher noted that, regardless of the rise in mass shootings, most gun killings are more personal and dont involve big numbers. Domestic violence is often involved as a probable cause, said Robert Weisberg, co-director of the Stanford Criminal Justice Center.

In the great majority of killings, the killer has some personal connection to the person killed, he said.

He also pointed out that there may be somewhat of a copycat element here in Wednesdays shooting, in that it was allegedly carried out by an employee at his workplace.

If he was an employee and had bad relations with his employer or co-workers, theres an ancient history of people striking out this way, Weisberg said of the suspect. And whether in their warped minds, a killer is stimulated by seeing other similar events  yes, its possible.

The San Jose shooting comes a little more than a month after a similarly deadly workplace shooting in Indiana, where a former FedEx employee opened fire at his previous workplace, killing eight people and injuring seven before turning the gun on himself.

Examples of copycats abound, and they date far back. Less that two years after the 1999 Columbine High School attack in Colorado, Charles Andrew Williams Jr. told friends he was going to pull a Columbine before he shot 15 people at his high school in Santee (San Diego County). Williams was later convicted of the shootings.

Heyne attributed a terrifying spike in gun sales during the pandemic as another likely cause for the historic increase in gun violence.

A recent study from the UC Davis School of Medicine found that an estimated 110,000 people in California alone acquired firearms due to pandemic fears, including approximately 47,000 new owners. The FBI reported nearly 40 million firearm background checks throughout the country in 2020  a 40% increase from 2019 and more than the agency has ever recorded since it started keeping track in 1998.

The problem is that the epidemic of gun violence has been exacerbated because of the pandemic, Heyne said. And the guns that were purchased in those surges, theyre not going to go away with the pandemic.

Garen Wintemute, director of the Violence Prevention Research Program at UC Davis Health, noted that overall violence rose in many parts of the country throughout the pandemic as well. Homicides surged by 20% or more in many large and small cities, in some cases to rates not seen in a generation, he wrote in an email.

Some of the Bay Areas largest cities saw a marked rise in shootings beginning last year and continuing into 2021.

Oakland to date has recorded 3,750 instances of shots fired in 2021, a 125% increase from the 1,669 recorded by the end of May last year, according to police data. In San Francisco, the number of incidents involving a shooting victim rose by 149% this year to date, from 35 in 2020 to 87 by mid-May.

There was an unprecedented surge in firearm purchases, and there was social disruption on many fronts, Wintemute said. We are just beginning to experience the effects of those changes.

Megan Cassidy and Kevin Fagan are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: megan.cassidy@sfchronicle.com, kfagan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @meganrcassidy, @kevinchron
Good morning, Bay Area. Its Thursday, May 27. Heres what you need to know to start your day.

The gunshots broke out just after 6:30 a.m. Wednesday and continued as the first of dozens of law enforcement officers rushed into the light-rail service yard near downtown San Jose on a rescue mission for survivors.

By the time the shooting stopped, eight people and the gunman, a male employee of the site, were dead. Several more suffered injuries, some critical. It was the deadliest such shooting in the Bay Area since one in San Franciscos Financial District in 1993.

What exactly happened Wednesday morning was still under investigation, and the process slowed by the discovery of explosives at the scene, according to Santa Clara County Sheriffs Office. They declined to offer information on a motive for the shooting.

Read more on our latest updates on this story and a round-up of what you need to know.

More from San Jose

Santiago Mejia / The Chronicle

The waiting was agonizing. When word finally came, it was worse.

On Wednesday, relatives and friends of people who work at a Valley Transportation Authority rail yard in San Jose gathered there, at a sheriffs office and at a family assistance center, waiting to learn if their loved ones were among the victims.

Late Wednesday, the answers came from the Santa Clara County coroners office. It identified those killed in the morning shootings as Paul Delacruz Megia, 42; Taptejdeep Singh, 36; Adrian Balleza, 29; Jose Dejesus Hernandez III, 35; Timothy Michael Romo, 49; Michael Joseph Rudometkin, 40; Abdolvahab Alaghmandan, 63; and Lars Kepler Lane, 63.

Reporters Lauren Hernandez, Lauren Helper and Nanette Asimov speak to the families and friends of those killed.

 Ex-girlfriend of suspect Samuel Cassidy alleged rape and violent, alcohol-fueled mood swings.

 As the nation reopens, mass shootings are accelerating.

 Police investigating two fires linked to VTA massacre  one at suspect's house.

 Interactives: Map of key locations, details of San Jose shooting and timeline of deadliest mass shootings in Northern California.

 From the Editorial Board: Democrats can protect us from gun violence or protect the filibuster. They can't do both.

Around the Bay

Stephen Lam / The Chronicle

 From Heather Knight: Beloved S.F. homeless nonprofit was booted from its Tenderloin space. Will S.F. residents step up to save it?

 Class-action: Oakland tenants sue S.F. real estate investment company, alleging harassment.

 Drought changes: State orders sweeping water restrictions for towns, vineyards along Russian River.

 From columnist Scott Ostler: Should A's demolish Mount Davis? How and why the Coliseum eyesore must go.

 Part of the disease: Long haul symptoms found in many COVID patients, Stanford researchers say.

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.
State election officials are reviewing a complaint that former Windsor Mayor Dominic Foppoli, who resigned this month after a Chronicle investigation into sexual assault allegations, may have violated campaign finance laws by paying thousands of dollars to a girlfriend and an executive at his winery and by spending funds on alcohol and travel during his six years in elected office.

The anonymous complaint, filed April 26 with the California Fair Political Practices Commission, also flagged an array of contributions that Foppoli accepted from developers with projects heading for a vote before the Town Council.

The enforcement division of the commission  an independent, bipartisan agency that enforces campaign ethics laws  hasnt determined whether it will open an investigation into the claims and has no timeline for reaching that decision, agency spokesman Jay Wierenga said Friday.

In one disputed campaign spending report for the first half of 2019, Foppoli said he paid $584.55 to Sonoma Brothers Distilling for meetings and appearances.

Kelly Matthies, the office manager for the Windsor craft distillery, said in an interview Thursday that the payment was for bourbon and vodka that Sonoma Brothers supplied at a birthday party for Foppoli at Christopher Creek Winery on May 27, 2019. An invoice provided to the Chronicle lists a Christopher Creek Birthday Event. Matthies said, It was not for a campaign event.

However, Foppoli, the 39-year-old co-owner of the winery outside Healdsburg, said in an email Saturday that the May 27 celebration was a major campaign event and not just a birthday party. His comment came after he had not responded to The Chronicles multiple requests seeking comment this week, and after the story had been initially published.

Sonoma County Supervisor James Gore, who attended the party, said there was a banner with Foppolis name hanging at the winery. Volunteers handed out envelopes, encouraging attendees to donate to Foppolis campaign for mayor.

Shirlee Zane, who was also a county supervisor at the time, said she also attended the birthday party and recalled it having political elements. She said she was struck that Foppoli was serving hard liquor at a campaign event.

That was his profile, to always elevate the party, Zane said. Most people dont want their attendees to walk away and drive home drunk, so that was the first time I ever saw that at a campaign party.

Wierenga declined to comment on this specific payment, saying, It is our practice and policy to not comment on any complaints or investigations.

Sean McMorris, a consultant for Common Cause, a nonprofit that advocates for campaign finance reform, said a combined campaign event and birthday party was not something he had come across.

I would be floored if the FPPC didnt at least open an investigation after learning that, McMorris said. It will be on Dominic to prove that these things are true.

Ann Ravel, who chaired the commission from 2011 to 2013, said she also had not heard of birthday parties that were also campaign opportunities. But if the reports were filled out correctly, she said, it would be legal.

I suppose that if it was also truly a campaign event, and he used the birthday as a way to bring more people in, or to make it more fun, it would be an appropriate use of campaign funds, Ravel said. But it still needs to be verified.

The complaint goes on to detail nine additional instances of potentially problematic spending and fundraising stretching from 2014, when Foppoli was first elected to the Town Council, to 2020, when he was running for mayor.

The allegations cite $3,496 in payments to Amy Holter, who dated Foppoli while working on his campaigns, and $6,075 to Elisa Lawson, who served not only as his campaign treasurer, but also as chief financial officer of Christopher Creek Winery, which Foppoli co-owns through the limited liability company Two Kings Wine Co. Holter and Lawson did not respond to requests seeking comment.

The Chronicle asked three campaign finance experts, including Ravel, to review the complaint. They each said the allegations appear to merit an investigation, calling Foppolis reported campaign spending highly unusual and striking for a candidate in a small town.

Although complaints are publicly available and therefore can be politically driven, the experts said the commission should inquire further, given that Foppoli did not provide detailed explanations for the spending in his reports.

Its a lot of red flags, McMorris said. I would certainly want verification that nothing inappropriate is going on.

A winery owner from a wealthy local family, Foppoli entered town politics in 2014 with an aggressive development ethos. Credited with attracting new business to the town, Foppoli drew scrutiny from some residents over how the money funding his political rise could influence town decisions.

Because the campaign spending complaint was sent to the political practices commission from an anonymous person, there is no deadline for the commission to determine whether it will open an investigation, Wierenga said. Signed complaints are processed within 14 days, with possible extensions.

Windsor officials accepted Foppolis resignation on May 24, days after a ninth womans allegation of sexual assault or sexual misconduct against the mayor came to light. Foppolis resignation wouldnt prevent a campaign ethics investigation, according to Wierenga: The agency investigates campaign finance issues even when the subject of the complaint has left office, he said.

At least two law enforcement agencies  the Sonoma County Sheriffs Office and police in Palm Beach, Fla.  have opened criminal investigations into the allegations of sexual assault made against Foppoli.

The accusations were first revealed in an April 8 Chronicle investigation that detailed the accounts of four women, who said Foppoli sexually assaulted them in incidents of groping, rape and non-consensual oral copulation between 2003 and 2019. Five more women have since come forward with allegations against the North Bay politician.

Although Foppoli has denied the sexual assault allegations, they have opened a broader discussion about his conduct as an elected official in the Sonoma County town of 27,000 people.

After winning a seat on the Windsor Town Council, Foppoli began outpacing other candidates for local office in fundraising and spending. In 2018, he raised about $72,000, spending around $65,000. In 2020, he raised more than $90,000  an all-time high for Windsor politics  and spent just under $88,000.

The April complaint to the commission questions $12,388 in payments that Foppoli made to Holter and Lawson in these years. These expenditures are laid out in official committee campaign statements known as Form 460s that generally cover several months at a time.

At the end of 2018, these records show, Foppoli paid Holter $2,000 for a civic donation to Vineyards to Villages, a local initiative that supports rural schools in western Kenya.

At the time, according to her public LinkedIn profile, Holter worked as the director of programs and evaluation at Global Partners for Development, the Rohnert Park nonprofit that runs Vineyards to Villages. Its executive director did not respond to emails seeking comment.

The payment may be legitimate, the anonymous complainant told the commission. But the manner in which it was recorded as a payment to an individual instead of the charity itself is suspect.

Campaign experts who spoke to The Chronicle agreed that the payment warranted further review.

I have the same question (the complainant) does, which is why didnt he just give to the charity, said Jessica Levinson, the past president of the Los Angeles Ethics Commission and a professor at Loyola Law School in Los Angeles.

Levinson, who specializes in political and election law, said she would want to see additional documentation for other payments Foppoli made to Holter: $250 in 2019 for professional services; $195 in the first half of 2020 for candidate travel, lodging, and meals; and $1,051.05 at the end of 2020 for reimbursements for expenditures on campaign supplies and meals.

The complaint notes that some of these payments were made during the coronavirus pandemic, amid restrictions on traveling, dining and in-person gatherings.

If she is providing a legitimate service, OK, Levinson said. But there starts to be a number of factors to indicate that maybe we should be asking more questions.

The complainant also raised questions about a $6,075 payment for 2020 Professional Services to Lawson, the campaign treasurer and winery chief financial officer, noting that Lawson had already received $500 for Professional Services for the first half of 2020.

McMorris said local campaign treasurer expenses typically amount to hundreds of dollars  not thousands. That is very high for a half a year for a treasurer, he said. Show us your receipts. What was it used on?

Some additional payments mentioned in the complaint are not necessarily improper, McMorris said, but there arent enough details in the committee campaign statements to fully evaluate them.

These expenses include $1,734.51 to Two Kings Wine Co. for a Campaign kick-off in the first half of 2018, plus hundreds of dollars to Southwest Airlines and Alaska Airlines for candidate travel, lodging, and meals in the second half of 2019. The complainant told the commission that 2019 was not an election year and questioned why a Windsor official would need to fly outside the town to campaign.

The complaint also flagged the 2019 payment to Sonoma Brothers Distilling for meetings and appearances.

Matthies, whose husband owns the craft distillery, said a representative for the Windsor Chamber of Commerce asked them to donate spirits to an upcoming birthday party for an elected official. She said they later learned that the liquor was for Foppolis 37th birthday party at Christopher Creek Winery.

Shawn Nichols, chair of the Windsor Chamber of Commerce, told The Chronicle that the organizations rules generally bar donation requests for events connected to elected officials. The employee who made the request acted without the knowledge or permission of the organizations Board of Directors and is no longer with the chamber, Nichols said in a statement.

At the party on May 27, 2019, they ran through the liquor they had agreed to donate, Matthies said. But Foppolis event planner told them to keep serving alcohol.

She said, They approved it, keep pouring, and well just pay for whatever overage we went through, Matthies recalled.

Sonoma Brothers Distilling billed Christopher Creek for $225 for vodka and $315 for whiskey, according to the invoice that Matthies provided to The Chronicle. With sales tax, the total came to $584.55. The Christopher Creek Birthday Event was paid for on May 30, 2019.

Former Windsor Town Council member Bruce Okrepkie said he attended the event at Christopher Creek, which he said was both for Foppolis birthday as well as the launch of his campaign. He said there was a table for donations and at least one campaign sign.

When I showed up I gave them my check for him running for mayor, Okrepkie said. At the time I think he sort of combined it as his birthday celebration.

Campaign finance experts said they would want to see the FPPC investigate these statements, saying it was unusual for a birthday party to also serve as a campaign event.

Other attendees of the May 27 gathering, including Gore and Zane, said they had attended or hosted campaign events that doubled as holiday parties.

The complaint also flagged $75,700 in campaign donations that Foppoli accepted from real estate developers who had projects depending on Town Council approval between 2014 and 2020.

California law attempts to restrict pay-to-play contributions by barring certain office-holders from accepting money from developers with projects that are under consideration or have recently been approved. While planning commission members, for example, are beholden to these rules, most elected officials are exempt  including local council members and state legislators.

Windsor did not place limits on fundraising until this year, when a state law limiting individual contributions to $4,900 per election went into effect.

Between 2014 and 2017, the complaint noted, Foppoli accepted a total of $30,200 in donations from Los Angeles-based developer Robert Bisno and his associates. That sum included a January 2017 donation of $20,000 from a limited-liability company linked to a Bisno development proposal that had recently come before the Windsor Town Council. Foppoli also received $10,200 in six $1,700 installments in November 2014 from Bisno, his business partners and their wives.

The development project  Vintage Oaks, a complex of about 400 apartments and townhomes on the Town Green  was approved by the council in May 2016.

Then, in October 2020, the complainant wrote that Foppoli received $10,000 from real estate developer Bill Gallaher, as well as $10,000 from Gallahers wife.

The Chronicle reached out to Bisno and Gallaher via email and left voice messages for both men on office lines. They could not be reached for comment.

At the time, Gallaher had a pending lawsuit against Windsor related to a proposed ban on natural gas in some new homes. In January 2021, as part of a settlement agreement with Gallaher and a second developer, Foppoli voted alongside his Town Council colleagues to repeal the ban. Enraged residents accused council members who had received contributions from Gallaher over the years of caving to the whims of developers.

But the campaign finance experts who spoke to The Chronicle said the contributions did not appear to violate state laws.

McMorris said that although these types of contributions make the public cynical and distrust government, they are often not unlawful. It just looks bad and thats just a cross he has to bear with the public, he said of Foppoli.

Other towns and cities in California, including Los Angeles, have attempted to curb the political influence of developers by preventing those with projects facing approval  or even incremental revisions  from making campaign contributions. But in most places, those types of donations do not violate any rules, Levinson said.

Vice Mayor Sam Salmon, who has served on the council since 1994, said campaign contributions are typically used to buy a conversation, not to influence a vote. But as more money has poured into Windsor politics, Salmon said, he has grown worried: Large sums of money in campaigns does have an effect on decisions even if you dont want to believe it does.

At a March 17 council meeting, he suggested capping contributions by individuals at $500, a step that Healdsburgs City Council took in 2003.

But Foppoli dismissed the idea. At the Windsor Town Council meeting, he argued that strict limits could have unintended consequences, such as creating barriers for new candidates to fund their campaigns.

Ive been spending a lot of time in Montana the last couple of years, where they have really strict limits, and it just means wealthy people will fund their own races, Foppoli said. I dont think this is a priority at this point.

Editors note: This story was updated on May 29 after it was published online and in print with a statement from Dominic Foppoli that a 2019 event at his winery was a major campaign event and not just a birthday party, a response to questions about whether campaign funds should have been spent on the gathering. Foppoli had previously not reponded to requests for comment. In addition, comments were added from guests who attended the gathering, who recalled that it had campaign elements to it.

Cynthia Dizikes, Alexandria Bordas and Julie Johnson are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: cdizikes@sfchronicle.com alexandria.bordas@sfchronicle.com julie.johnson@sfchronicle.com
Monsanto Co.s $2 billion proposal to fend off suits by cancer victims who sprayed the companys Roundup herbicide on their crops was rejected Wednesday by a federal judge in San Francisco, who said the proposed settlement offered little to Roundup users who may be diagnosed with cancer in the future.

More than 100,000 people nationwide who suffer from non-Hodgkins lymphoma and other cancers have already sued Monsanto and its parent company, Bayer AG. The companies cite repeated findings by the Environmental Protection Agency that Roundup, the worlds most widely used weed-killer, is safe and can be legally sold without warning labels.

But the International Association for Research on Cancer, an arm of the World Health Organization, said in 2015 that Roundups main ingredient, glypohosate, was a probable cause of cancer in humans. Relying on that finding and other scientific evidence, three Bay Area juries have awarded tens of millions of dollars in damages to cancer victims, and on May 14 a federal appeals court upheld $25.2 million to a Sonoma County man who was diagnosed with cancer after spraying Roundup on his properties for 26 years.

Bayer has offered $9.6 billion to settle the pending lawsuits and has resolved about two-thirds of them. Wednesdays ruling rejected a separate $2 billion plan to settle future suits by users of the herbicide who have not yet gone to court.

For those who have been diagnosed with cancer, the $2 billion settlement would offer two options: accepting payments of up to $200,000, or filing a suit for compensation for personal harm but not for punitive damages, which have been the largest portion of the jury verdicts.

Those not yet diagnosed could seek four years of company-funded medical monitoring, and get payments from the fund if they are later found to have cancer. The settlement would also establish an independent seven-member scientific panel that would issue findings on glyphosate and its impact on health.

U.S. District Judge Vince Chhabria said the settlement was clearly unreasonable for Roundup users who have not yet been diagnosed with cancer, so there was no need to assess its value for current cancer patients.

Non-Hodgkins lymphoma, a sometimes-fatal lymph cancer, typically has a latency period of 10 to 15 years, Chhabria said, so four years of medical monitoring would have limited value for most potential victims. And by the time they are diagnosed, he said, the proposed compensation fund might have run out of money.

Establishing an independent panel to evaluate glyphosate seems like a reasonable proposal, Chhabria said, but Monsanto has lost the battle of the experts at the three trials, including the Sonoma County federal case that was tried in his court. And he said requiring plaintiffs to forego punitive damages in future suits would reduce their leverage in settlement negotiations.

In response to the ruling, Bayer said it would re-evaluate the future of glyphosate-based products in the U.S. residential market. The company said it would also reconsider its proposed settlements that have not yet been accepted by customers who have filed suit.

San Francisco attorney Elizabeth Cabraser, who negotiated the proposed settlement, said she was disappointed by the ruling but still believed an agreement was possible that would provide tremendous financial, health and safety benefits for Roundup users.

But Bill Freese, science director at the nonprofit Center for Food Safety, said the settlement would have left many users high and dry in order to limit Bayer/Monsantos liability for their carcinogenic herbicide.

Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @BobEgelko
Our responders are focused on the search for survivors, said Senior Chief Seth Haynes, Key West command center supervisor on Thursday night. We will continue to search through the night for those reported missing, and if any mariners see or hear anything, to render assistance if possible and contact the Coast Guard.
San Francisco Chronicle

A mountain lion broke a window and prowled inside a home in San Bruno early Tuesday  possibly attracted by several large game, taxidermy trophy heads mounted on the walls, authorities said.

The animal entered the home in the 200 block of Ross Way at about 12:25 a.m., San Bruno police Sgt. Joe Valiente said in a news release. The homeowner scared the animal away, and no injuries resulted from the encounter, police said.
Dozens of tenants in Oakland filed a class-action lawsuit and four multi-plaintiff lawsuits late Tuesday against Mosser Capital, a San Francisco real estate investment company, alleging illegal utility gouging and harassment, attorneys said.

The allegations include driving up existing rents by imposing new utility fees, unlawful entry into units, refusal to make repairs and charging tenants for necessary repairs.

The lawsuit, filed in Alameda County Superior Court, demands a jury trial, unspecified damages and asks a judge to prohibit Mosser and other companies named in the lawsuit from pressuring tenants to vacate their units.

It would also require the defendants to refund all utility fees, make necessary repairs and prevents them from entering units for unnecessary reasons, according to the lawsuit.

We are seeing obviously an increase in speculators buying property in rent-controlled jurisdictions with the specific goal of basically making money by pushing tenants out and using lots of different illegal practices, said Leah Simon-Weisberg, the director at Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment, a community organization that supports economic, racial and social justice, which is filing the suit.

The tenants, who are members of the alliance, live in four Mosser Capital buildings, but the class-action lawsuit covers all 22 Mosser Capital-owned buildings in Oakland, Simon-Weisberg said.

Mosser is a major owner of San Francisco apartments and acquired several Oakland buildings starting in 2016.

A spokesperson for Mosser said it has not been served with the lawsuit. The spokesperson said in a statement to The Chronicle that Mosser is committed to maintaining and improving properties so residents have a quality place to call home.

The company said it has maintenance and management staff that live and work at 425 E. 18th St., one of the properties in the lawsuit, in Oakland and are deeply committed to the community. Since taking ownership, the company states it has made improvements, including the electrical systems, painting common areas, installing new carpets and providing new mailboxes.

The company also stated it is actively supporting residents under financial duress as a result of the COVID economic crisis so they can benefit from our governments program to relieve their stress of carrying this debt.

The defendants include Mosser, and others involved with its properties: landlord affiliates of Texas-based Invesco Advisers Inc., property management company FPI Management Inc., and Yes Energy Management, Inc., Conservice LLC, and DepositIQ and RentersIQ Insurance Agency LLC.

The lawsuit comes 10 months after tenants at a different property owned by Mosser Capital protested when the company planned apartment showings for investors during the pandemic and eventually sold the building.

Simon-Weisberg said Mosser Capital is an example of a speculator landlord, which purchases buildings in hopes of re-selling quickly and turning a profit.

Its not about providing people with shelter, she said. Its just a business investment that has nothing to do with what its actually intended for.

Tenants at several of the properties complained of unfair practices from the company and its management staff that resulted in stress during the pandemic. Djamila Boudjema, a resident at 421 E 18th St. for nearly 11 years, said when she moved into her studio unit, her landlord covered utilities, water and garbage. But that changed several years after Mosser Capital acquired the property in 2016.

Last June, in the midst of the pandemic, Boudjema and her husband were told they had to start covering utilities. If they didnt, Mosser imposed a $25 late fee per month, Boudjema said.

Oakland law prohibits landlords from unilaterally shifting utility costs to tenants, the lawsuit states.

Prior to the pandemic, Boudjema worked as a preschool teacher in Berkeley but lost her job when the schools shut down. Her husband works as a Uber driver, but stopped driving for several months in fear of contracting the virus. The extra charges were concerning, she said.

It is unexpected, Boudjema said. With the pandemic and everything, its just stressful.

Said Koulougli, 39, a resident at 421 E 18th St., said he feels the extra fees are the companys attempt to push him and his wife out. Both he and Boudjema pay $865 per month.

He is trying to push us through the door because they want to bring in new tenants that he will charge maybe double or triple the amount that we are paying right now, Koulougli said.

Sarah Ravani is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: sravani@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @SarRavani
San Francisco Assistant Fire Chief Nicol Juratovac filed a civil lawsuit against the city this week alleging discrimination, harassment and whistleblower retaliation. Her previous internal complaint to the citys human resources department was handled by an ex-manager who admitted to forging a settlement with a different employee.

Juratovac, a 23-year veteran of the fire department, is the first female, Asian-American and LGBTQ assistant chief.

Her complaint, filed in San Francisco Superior Court Monday, alleges a culture of corruption, homophobia and sexism prevalent within the fire department, creating a good old boys mentality. The lawsuit said Juratovac sought to change the culture by blowing the whistle on exam cheating, racism, safety violations and a raucous drinking party at a fire station attended by on- and off-duty firefighters.

The suit alleges shes been denied promotions and overtime in favor of less qualified male, white or heterosexual coworkers. It alleges that after whistleblowing, shes been subject to seven disciplinary actions since 2014 following an unblemished career. Six were dismissed, and one  for mistreating a firefighter in training during a drill - resulted in harsher discipline than more serious offenses by other employees, the suit said. That included an instance where a firefighter failed to report a hit-and-run, her attorney Therese Cannata said.

Assistant Chief Juratovac has suffered and continues to suffer humiliation, emotional distress, and mental pain and anguish, the complaint read.

John Cote, spokesman for the City Attorney, said the city and the Fire Department take equal employment issues seriously.

We are committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive workplace free of discrimination or harassment based on race, gender, sexual orientation or any other protected characteristic. We are also committed to a workplace free of retaliation for any protected activity, Cote said. Assistant Chief Juratovac chose to take this matter to court, and that is where we will address it.

Before suing, Juratovac filed multiple complaints with the San Francisco Ethics Commission and a complaint with the citys human resources department in October 2019. Her lawsuit alleges she was strung along by human resources manager Rebecca Sherman, who last year resigned after admitting to forging a settlement over a racial discrimination complaint by a Black Municipal Transportation Agency employee.

Human resources department spokesman Mawuli Tugbenyoh said Shermans actions dont reflect the departments commitment to fairly, equitably, and carefully investigate complaints of harassment and discrimination from any City employee.

He said that since the scandal, the department audited all of Shermans cases and commissioned an independent audit on the employee complaint process that should be completed within the next month.

Mallory Moench is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: mallory.moench@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @mallorymoench
Wednesday was supposed to be a milestone of sorts for the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority.

After more than a year of stringent pandemic protocols that restricted service and reduced ridership, the transit agency planned to debut service with relaxed social distancing measures on its buses and trains, signaling that the challenging pandemic year was in the rear-view mirror for the VTA and its workers.

Wednesday will instead be remembered for the mass shooting at a VTA light-rail yard near downtown San Jose that left nine people, including the gunman, dead and brought a different type of tragedy and hardship to VTA front-line workers.

The Santa Clara County coroners office identified those slain in the morning shootings as Paul Delacruz Megia, 42; Taptejdeep Singh, 36; Adrian Balleza, 29; Jose Dejesus Hernandez III, 35; Timothy Michael Romo, 49; Michael Joseph Rudometkin, 40; Abdolvahab Alaghmandan, 63; and Lars Kepler Lane, 63. It was unclear how many were injured from the shooting. The incident reportedly happened during a union meeting, and law enforcement officials had said that the suspect, Samuel Cassidy, knew the victims.

The tragedy brought an outpouring of grief and support for VTA workers, whom local leaders described as a tight-knit family.

Monica Mallon, a frequent VTA rider and transit advocate, said the transit agency has really been a lifeline for her. Over the years, she said, shes befriended several amazing VTA employees.

Around 8 a.m., when she first heard news of a mass shooting at a local VTA facility, Mallon immediately texted VTA employees she knew, asking Are you alive?

The employees really do care, and they are heroes, Mallon said. Theyve been risking their lives throughout this entire pandemic because of the virus and now their lives are at risk, again, because of this shooting.

Now Playing: Video: San Francisco Chronicle Staff

Like with other transit agencies, the pandemic brought hardship on the Valley Transportation Authority. Ridership and services declined. Bus and train operators and other front-line employees worked essential jobs at the risk of infection. Two employee deaths were related to COVID-19, according to Santa Clara County Supervisor Cindy Chavez, who also sits on the VTA board.

In April the agency experienced a ransomware attack targeting the computer systems VTA relies on to coordinate services, according to a San Jose Mercury News report. This week, the agency announced it would reduce social distancing requirements on VTA transit from 6 feet to 3 feet, allowing increased capacity on trains and buses. Hundreds of riders, the agency estimated, were being left at the curb due to the stringent social-distancing protocols. Easing the rules was expected to help.

We really relied on VTA and the strength and the character of the operators to really be a backbone for so many who have high needs in our community, Chavez, the VTA board chair during the pandemic, told The Chronicle in a phone interview. That all created enormous challenges. Now to lose eight additional people to an indescribable type of violence, it really is heartbreaking.

Representatives for Amalgamated Transit Union Local 265, the union that represents most of VTAs 2,000-plus workers, had not publicly commented on the shooting as of Wednesday evening. Attempts to reach union officials Wednesday were unsuccessful. The unions official Twitter account did post a one word tweet early Wednesday that read Pray.

Tammy Dhanota, a VTA member and regional vice president of the SEIU 521 union, said in a statement she was shocked and saddened by this mornings mass shooting.

There is simply no excuse for this or any form of violence toward essential workers or residents, Dhanota said. VTA workers are calling on our residents to come together and heal one another in light of this heinous attack.

Ricardo Cano is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: ricardo.cano@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ByRicardoCano
MIAMI (AP)  Bolivia's former interior minister has been arrested in the U.S. for allegedly taking part of $602,000 in kickbacks from Florida-based businessmen accused of selling tear gas at inflated prices to the conservative government of former interim President Jeanine Anez.

Arturo Murillo was charged with a single count of conspiring to commit money laundering, according to a Department of Justice statement on Wednesday.

The Associated Press previously reported that Murillo's former chief of staff had been arrested as part of the investigation along with the owner of a Florida-based supplier of police and military equipment and his father, who press accounts indicate was charged two decades ago in Bolivia with weapons smuggling.

Murillo, 57, was one of the most outspoken voices in the Anez government that took power in November 2019 after President Evo Morales stepped down amid violent protests disputing his reelection to a fourth straight term.

He has a long history of far-right provocation. As a congressman, he supported a ban on abortion by once telling women that they should commit suicide by jumping from a five-story building if they wanted to terminate a pregnancy.

As interior minister, he referred to opponents as narco-terrorists, brought charges against Morales for sedition and led the deadly police response against protesters that drew rebuke from international human rights groups. He also bragged about meeting with the CIA when he traveled to Washington to meet with senior officials in the Trump administration who initially viewed Anez's ascent as an opportunity to improve bilateral relations that turned hostile under Morales.

But the crackdown on Bolivias left backfired, and almost a year later, Morales ally, Luis Arce, was elected and proceeded to lock up Anez and other officials tied to her short-lived rule.

On Wednesday, his successor as Interior Minister, Eduardo del Castillo, said the Arce government would ask the U.S. to extradite Murillo and Sergio Mendez, his former chief of staff, so they could face justice at home. Bolivian authorities also arrested a relative of Murillo as he was withdrawing money and valuable from a security deposit box at a bank in the city of Cochabamba held in Murillo's name, according to press reports.

Murillo became the key force behind the de facto govts repression, said Kathryn Ledebur, director of the Bolivia-based Andean Information Network. His arrest is an important message that rampant corruption and abuse cannot be tolerated by the international community.

According to investigators, Murillo, Mendez and another unnamed co-conspirator in the Defense Ministry helped a Florida-based company obtain a $5.6 million contract to supply tear gas and non-lethal equipment to the Anez government.

The company was allegedly owned by Bryan Berkman, a dual Bolivian-American national who purchased the tear gas in Brazil for a much-smaller sum of $3.3 million, according to an affidavit from a Department of Homeland Security agent that accompanies the complaint. Part of the profits allegedly were used to coordinate the bribe payments, some of which were to be paid from a delivery of $700,000 in cash to Bolivia.

While the American company is not named in the complaint, Berkman is the chief executive of Taramac-based Bravo Tactical Solutions, according to Floridas corporate registry. His father, Luis Berkman, who was also arrested and charged, runs a separate Tamarac-based company called International Defense Group.

Bolivian press reports indicate that the older Berkman was arrested on weapons trafficking charges in 2001, accused of heading a criminal ring that tried to smuggle military assault weapons to Paraguay. He was declared a fugitive in 2013 without having been found guilty, according to a Bolivian judicial filing.

According to the complaint, evidence compiled from text messages, emails and bank records show that Mendez was asked by a co-conspirator to write a letter to the Brazilian tear gas manufacturer insisting that Bolivias government would only purchase its products via the Berkman-owned company.

On Jan. 13, 2020, Bolivia's Central Bank attempted to wire transfer $5.6 million to a U.S. account belonging to the Berkman-owned company. On the same day, Murillo met Bryan Berkman in Miami and opened a bank account with a $10,000 deposit.

However, the wire transfer from Bolivia's government was rejected, prompting Mendez to send an email from his government account to the U.S. bank to try and clear the transaction.

Once blocked, the alleged co-conspirators tried a few weeks later with a different U.S. bank.

Help me with the payment please, the elder Berkman wrote in a text message to Murillo, who responded We're all going to meet at the Ministry of Economy at 7:30 tomorrow and the go-ahead will be given.

An attorney for Murillo did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

__

AP Writer Paola Flores contributed to this report from La Paz, Bolivia.

Follow Goodman on Twitter: @APJoshGoodman
DHARMSALA, India (AP)  The new president of the Tibetan exile government said Thursday he was willing to reach out to the Chinese government to resolve their conflict, though the sides haven't had dialogue in more than a decade.

Penpa Tsering, the former speaker of Tibets parliament-in-exile, was sworn in as president at a ceremony in Dharmsala, the northern Indian town where Buddhist spiritual leader the Dalai Lama has been living since he fled Tibet after a failed uprising against Chinese rule in 1959.

The Dalai Lama participated virtually in the ceremony from his residence and spoke briefly.

China denies curbing religion in Tibet and says the Himalayan region governed by the its Communist Part since 1951 has been Chinese territory since the mid-13th century. Many Tibetans say they were effectively independent for most of their history, and that the Chinese government wants to exploit the resource-rich region while crushing its cultural identity.

China doesnt recognize the Tibetan government-in-exile and hasnt held any dialogue with representatives of the Dalai Lama since 2010. India considers Tibet as part of China, though it hosts the Tibetan exiles.

Penpa Tsering said a Chinese white paper, or policy document, issued May 21 had nothing new on Tibet. "All I can say is we are open to send people to verify the facts that they have claimed in the white paper.

"At the same time, we have always been very consistent in our position that we are willing to reach out to the Chinese government to resolve the Sino-Tibetan conflict, he told reporters.

Beijing accuses the Dalai Lama of seeking to separate Tibet from China, which he denies. Penpa Tsering supports the Dalai Lamas position.

Some Tibetan groups advocate independence for Tibet, since little progress has been made in talks with China.

The election held in two rounds in January and April was the third direct election of the Tibetan exile leadership since the Dalai Lama withdrew from any political role in the running of the exile government in 2011. Nearly 64,000 Tibetans living in exile in India, Nepal, North America, Europe, Australia and elsewhere voted.

Penpa Tsering, 53, was elected to its parliament in 1996 and became its speaker in 2008. He succeeded Lobsang Sangay, who completed his second five-year term.

The 45 people elected to the exile parliament represent traditional provinces of Tibet, religious constituencies, and Tibetan communities abroad.
NEW YORK (AP)  Stocks that traded heavily or had substantial price changes Thursday:

Okta Inc., down $24.13 to $222.40.

The cloud identity management company cut its full-year earnings forecast and said its chief financial officer is resigning.

Best Buy Co., up $1.18 to $118.14.

The consumer electronics retailer blew away Wall Street's first-quarter profit forecasts.

Gap Inc., up $1.13 to $35.15.

Walmart will sell the the clothing retailer's new line of home essentials.

Dollar Tree Inc., down $8.36 to $100.11,

The discount retailer gave investors a weak profit forecast for the year.

Tellurian Inc., up 72 cents to $3.89.

The natural gas company signed a 10-year deal with Gunvor Singapore for liquified natural gas.

Lantheus Holdings Inc., up $3.27 to $22.78.

The company received FDA approval for its Plyarify imaging agent to help identify prostate cancer.

Anaplan Inc., down $7.38 to $49.61.

The software developer's first-quarter earnings fell short of Wall Street forecasts.

Tempur Sealy Inc., up $2.60 to $39.45.

The mattress maker gave investors an encouraging sales update and said it is buying specialty bed retailer Dreams.
After a year of coronavirus lockdowns, the start of summer beckons with vacation plans made possible by relaxed COVID-19 restrictions. But a severe worker shortage brings a warning for travelers: Expect delays and pack a little patience.

Lifeguards and hotel housekeepers are in short supply. So are rental cars. And don't count on having a fruity cocktail at the hotel Tiki bar.

The labor shortage is hitting the nations tourist destinations just as they try to rebound from a year lost to the pandemic, where periodic surges in cases and lockdowns had Americans sticking close to home. Now, with more than half of adults vaccinated, Americans are ready to venture out with the traditional start of summer travel.

But the staffing issues threaten to derail the travel industrys recovery. Travelers can expect fewer menu choices at restaurants, lengthy check-in lines at hotels and airports, and fewer rides and food stands at theme parks.

Some hotels aren't filling all of their rooms or changing the sheets as often because they don't have enough housekeepers. Six of the most popular national parks  including Yosemite, Rocky Mountain, Acadia and Zion  will require advance reservations for many visitors to allow for social distancing.

This is nothing like we've ever seen before, said Michelle Woodhull, president of Charming Inns, which includes four small hotels and a fine dining restaurant in Charleston, South Carolina.

The company has limited room reservations by 20 percent during some weeks and reduced seating at the restaurant, said Woodhull, who recently fielded a complaint from a customer who couldn't get a table for four weeks.

Unfortunately, that is a reality, she said, adding that it's better than delivering poor service. "What business wants to turn away business, especially after the year we've had?"

Still, the tourism industry is showing signs of coming back. Airline executives say domestic leisure travel is at pre-pandemic levels, and the number of people passing through U.S. airports daily is likely to top 2 million before the week is over  the first time that has happened since early March 2020.

Air travelers planning to rent a car during the Memorial Day weekend might be out of luck. Rental cars are scarce, and they are pricey  the average cost has roughly doubled from a year ago, according to government figures.

The AAA auto club forecasts that 37 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home over the upcoming holiday, a 60% increase over last year. But if AAA is right about this weekend, that will mean 6 million fewer people traveling than over the same holiday in 2019.

The reasons behind the worker shortage are hotly debated. Many employers blame the federal governments extra $300-per-week in unemployment aid. But plenty of hospitality workers who abruptly lost their jobs a year ago have moved on to new careers and arent coming back.

Some employers in the hospitality industry want to hire new workers at lower wages instead of recalling laid-off employees, said D. Taylor, president of the hotel, gaming and airport workers union Unite Here.

Big hotel chains are considering eliminating housekeeping and guest-services jobs, and casinos are moving to cut jobs in food and beverage, he told a congressional subcommittee this week.

Thats bad for customers, but its also bad for workers and communities because housekeepers, cooks, servers  thats the backbone of the service economy, Taylor said.

A survey of 4,000 travel and tourism workers earlier this year showed that many found jobs with higher pay and predictable schedules and more plan on leaving the industry soon, said Peter Ricci, director of Florida Atlantic Universitys hospitality and tourism management program.

The travel sector as a whole, he said, faces a moment of change and will need to offer better wages and benefits and rethink how it treats employees.

It's time for our industry to wake up and see thats an important thing. We have a shortage for a reason, said Cathy Balestriere, general manager of Cranes Beach House, a boutique hotel in Delray Beach, Florida.

She has managed to keep most of her staff and brought in outside workers to provide massages and yoga, but the hotel is not offering breakfast, and the poolside Tiki bar is closed because theres no one to serve drinks. Managers and maintenance staff have pitched in with housekeeping duties.

Maines biggest amusement park, Funtown Splashtown USA, which opens Memorial Day weekend, is scaling back hours and operating only five days a week because it cannot find enough workers.

The park in Saco, Maine, still needs lifeguards, ride operators and cleanup crews despite offering wage increases and four season passes for summer hires. The reduced number of international students is another problem for the largest seasonal employer in the state.

Raj Kapoor, who manages a popular food court on the Belmar, New Jersey, oceanfront, has hired 14 people for the summer, but he could still use eight to 10 more to scoop ice cream, roll burritos and sell sodas, milkshakes and candy.

The labor shortage has affected his business in other, less obvious ways. A shipment of soda that was promised the next day took a week and a half to arrive because the distributor did not have enough delivery drivers.

Diners in tourist hot spots shouldnt be surprised when they find restaurants with limited hours, streamlined menus and some seating sections closed, even when theres a wait for tables, said Barry Gutin, co-owner of the Cuba Libre restaurant chain on the East Coast.

To attract workers and help them get ahead, theyve raised wages and gone as far as offering English and Spanish language courses and personal finance training. But hiring has still been a challenge. Their location in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is only open for dinner right now  not even for takeout or delivery.

Were protecting the guest experience by not over-seating, he said. Were hoping they understand things are a little different than pre-pandemic.

Regardless of destination, travelers should make sure to call ahead and be ready to change plans at a moments notice.

Jamie Goble had been set to fly to Ohio from her home in Waco, Texas, to join her family for three days next week at Cedar Point amusement park, where they planned to celebrate her nephew's high school graduation.

But nine days before her flight, the park announced last week that it would be closed two days a week for most of the month because of staffing shortages.

Not just the park, the hotel too, she said. So we were out of a place to stay. Its all understandable, but we thought they had things figured out.

Instead, they quickly shifted plans to ride roller coasters at Dollywood in Tennessee and go hiking at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

___

Associated Press writers David Koenig in Dallas, Wayne Parry in Belmar, New Jersey, and David Sharp in Portland, Maine, contributed to this report.
The state prosecutors office said miners tried to block a federal police operation by closing off entries to the municipality of Jacareacanga on Wednesday and trying to raid a police base where heavy equipment for the operation was kept.
There is a popular conception of workplace mass shooters as people who suddenly snap and commit horrific violence against their co-workers. But time and again, studies have shown workplace shooters are methodical planners who stew over perceived slights for months or even years before acting.

Preliminary information indicates this was the case for a 57-year-old Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority worker who killed nine of his co-workers at a San Jose rail yard Wednesday. Payroll records show he worked for the VTA since at least 2012, and his ex-wife said he repeatedly talked about killing his co-workers because he thought he received unfair assignments. He killed himself when deputies arrived on the scene.

An FBI study of "pre-attack behaviors of active shooters" conducted between 2000 and 2013 found a number of trends. Seventy-seven percent of shooters spent a week or longer planning the attack, and in 64% of cases, at least one of the victims was specifically targeted. In workplace killings, that person is often someone the shooter thinks has wronged them. This is not necessarily a reflection of reality but the way in which the shooter perceives how they are being treated.

Workplace shooters also tend to have a higher average age than other types of mass murderers. Some researchers believe this is tied to job insecurity; younger workers may be disgruntled but will simply move onto a new job. Older workers may perceive their job as the last opportunity they have.

In line with other serial or spree killer demographics, in 94% of the cases studied by the FBI, the shooter was male. Shooters were more likely to be white or Asian, and the vast majority obtained their firearms legally, which also speaks to the preplanned nature of the attacks.

AP

And contrary to the common he was a quiet guy narrative elevated by media interviews with killers acquaintances, most shooters show a history of concerning behaviors.

"On average, each active shooter displayed 4 to 5 concerning behaviors over time that were observable to others around the shooter. The most frequently occurring concerning behaviors were related to the active shooter's mental health, problematic interpersonal interactions, and leakage of violent intent, the FBI found.

In the case of the VTA shooter, both his ex-wife and a former partner say he was angry and physically violent. In 2009 court documents, an ex-girlfriend alleged he sexually abused her. He also apparently held violent grudges against specific co-workers.

It appears to us at this point that he said to one of the people there: Im not going to shoot you, Santa Clara County Sheriff Laurie Smith told the Associated Press. And then he shot other people. So I imagine there was some kind of thought on who he wanted to shoot.

Although mass shootings are disturbingly common in the United States, they remain rare in workplaces. According to a database from the Associated Press, USA Today and Northeastern University, there were 13 committed by current or ex-employees between 2006 and February 2020.
Kay Lahusen, a pioneering gay rights activist who chronicled the movements earliest days through her photography and writing, has died. She was 91.

Known as the first openly gay U.S. photojournalist, Lahusen died Wednesday at Chester County Hospital outside Philadelphia, following a brief illness.

Together with her partner, the late activist Barbara Gittings, Lahusen advocated for gay civil rights years before the 1969 Stonewall uprising in New York helped launch the modern LGBTQ era. She captured widely published images of some of the nations first protests.

Lahusen was the first photojournalist in our community, said Mark Segal, a friend of more than 50 years and founder and publisher of the Philadelphia Gay News. Practically every photo we have of that time is from Kay.

Lahusen photographed a series of gay rights demonstrations held in front of Philadelphia's Independence Hall each July 4 from 1965 to 1969  and was a marcher herself, carrying signs that said First Class Citizenship for Homosexuals" and End Official Persecution of Homosexuals. She documented gay rights protests at the White House and the Pentagon.

Whatever the Founding Fathers envisioned as the rights and privileges of our citizens, we wanted for ourselves as well, she told WHYY for a 2015 commemoration. Somebody had to get out and show their face in public and proclaim things and be aggressive."

Lahusen's life partner, Gittings, was one of the nation's most prominent lesbian activists and co-organizer of the Annual Reminder pickets in Philadelphia.

They had met in 1961 at a picnic held by Daughters of Bilitis, the first known lesbian organization in the U.S. whose East Coast chapter Gittings had founded. Lahusen was arts editor and shot groundbreaking cover photos of gay women for the group's national publication, The Ladder, which Gittings edited.

Lahusen also was a founding member of the Gay Activists Alliance and photographed that groups protests, called zaps. She was there for Philadelphias first gay pride march in 1972. Under the pseudonym Kay Tobin, she co-authored a 1972 book, The Gay Crusaders, which profiled the movements early leaders.

Lahusen and Gittings also took part in the campaign that led to the American Psychiatric Associations 1973 decision to drop homosexuality from its list of mental disorders.

Lahusen and Gittings were a couple for 46 years. After Gittings' 2007 death, Lahusen spent her later years in a retirement home in Kennett Square, where she gave interviews, helped maintain Gittings' legacy and kept alive the history of the early gay civil rights movement.

Stonewall was not the first thing, that's what she would tell you, said her friend, Judith Armstrong. The history is there and the history she definitely wanted to be preserved. ... She wanted the story to be out there.

The New York Public Library houses an extensive collection of Gittings and Lahusen's papers and photographs.
HARTFORD, Kan. (AP)  Two Lyon County residents are facing possible animal cruelty charges after authorities removed 17 dogs from their home, authorities said.

Lyon County sheriff's deputies and animal control officers went to the home of Thomas and Rhonda Staggs in Hartford on Wednesday to serve a warrant from the Hartford Municipal Court.
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP)  Abdullah Mohammadi lost his two legs and an arm below the elbow in a ferocious battle with the Taliban. As a young Afghan soldier, he had been eager to fight for his country, but now hes furious at a government he says ignores him and hasn't paid his veteran's pension for nearly a year.

Afghanistans National Defense and Security Forces, meant to be the bulwark against advancing Taliban insurgents, are rife with corruption, demoralized and struggling to keep territory. The government says the army can hold its own, but military experts warn of a tough fight ahead for poorly trained, ill-equipped troops whose loyalties waver between their country and local warlords.

By Sept. 11 at the latest, the remaining 2,300-3,500 U.S. troops and roughly 7,000 allied NATO forces will have left Afghanistan, ending nearly 20 years of military engagement. Also leaving is the American air support that the Afghan military has relied on to stave off potentially game-changing Taliban assaults, ever since it took command of the war from the U.S. and NATO in 2014.

Without U.S. military support, it is a matter of time before the Taliban consolidates its gains, particularly in the south, east and west, said Bill Roggio, senior fellow at the American Foundation for the Defense of Democracies and editor of its Long War Journal, which tracks militant movements.

At least half the country is believed to be contested ground, often with the government holding only the main towns and cities in local districts and the Taliban dominating the countryside.

In the last two weeks, the Taliban seized control of four district centers, including a strategic town southwest of Kabul, on the main highway linking Afghanistans north and south.

This week, the Taliban briefly entered Mehtar Lam, the capital of Laghman province, after police and army abandoned several outposts protecting the city, government officials said. The Taliban were driven out but later showed off weapons and equipment allegedly left behind at the outposts. More than 100 military personnel were brought to Kabul to be reprimanded for abandoning their positions.

Once U.S. military support is gone, the Taliban should be able to take and hold several provincial capitals and hold them indefinitely, said Roggio.

Within the Afghan army, soldiers complain of substandard equipment, even shoddy basic items like army boots that fall apart within weeks because corrupt contractors used inferior material. The Associated Press witnessed boots with gaping holes being worn, insufficient helmets available and weapons that often jammed.

At a police outpost seen by the AP earlier this month, eight men lived in a partially built bunker that looked big enough for only half that number. They had only a few rifles as they watched sentry from two turret-style posts on the outposts high brick walls. They overlook a busy road where the Taliban frequently attack security convoys.

The commander, who wore sandals, said the outpost is occasionally hit by rocket or gunfire and would have a hard time fending off a full-fledged attack.

Theres no other option but peace, he said, asking not to be identified because he did not have permission to allow media into his compound.

The Afghan government long ago stopped releasing casualty figures among its security forces. But a former senior security official deeply familiar with the cost of war over the past two years told the AP that about 100-110 security personnel are killed or wounded every day. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk about casualties.

Mohammadi, the wounded veteran, said he was injured six years ago in Zhari district in southern Kandahar province, once the spiritual heartland of the Taliban until their ouster in 2001 by U.S.-led coalition forces.

He led a company of 18 men airlifted into battle in a grape field, about 5 kilometers (3 miles) from their nearest base. The fight went on all day and night until eventually the Taliban surrounded them.

I was the commander. I had to do something. I stood up and aimed my RPG (rocket propelled grenade launcher). That was the last Mohammadi remembered. He stepped on a land mine. The Taliban had littered the fields with mines, and higher-ups had not warned him or his men.

For a year he recovered in hospital. He received two wooden legs and an artificial plastic hand. The legs are painful to wear and he can manage them only for 15 minutes at a time. It takes two people to help him get them on, and he sometimes pays a neighbor to help.

I am proud of what I have sacrificed for this country. What I gave for my country I gave with pride, he said.

But Mohammadi is fuming at the government. For years, his veterans pension, around 16,000 Afghanis ($200) a month, has been erratic, and for the past 11 months he hasnt received it at all. They tell me to wait, he said.

Mohammadi says has had to borrow from family and friends. It wounds his pride, but it better than begging, he said.

I am angry. I feel like my dignity has been insulted. My life is a struggle, he said, wrapping his lower body in a wool blanket. The cold and damp cause him pain in his missing limbs.

The Defense Ministrys deputy spokesman, Fawad Aman, promised to look into the complaint. He said that corruption, while it exists, is not widespread and efforts are being made to tackle it and that the spirit of the fighting force was high.

With the withdrawal of United States forces there will be no security vacuum or gap in Afghanistan because our forces can defend Afghanistan independently, he said.

Washingtons chief watchdog overseeing U.S. spending in Afghanistan, John Sopko, told a Congressional hearing in March that Afghanistans security forces were demoralized. He said the figure of 300,000 troops in the security forces was a guesstimate because of the many so-called ghost soldiers, where commanders list non-existent personnel to collect their paychecks.

I think corruption is the threat, he said. Not only does it mean money is lost, he said, it also is fueling the insurgency since the Taliban can build public support by pointing to the corruption and the impunity officials enjoy.

The U.S is committed to pay $4 billion annually until 2024 to finance Afghanistans security forces. As of Dec. 31, 2020, Sopko said the U.S. has spent $88.3 billion to help the Afghan government provide security in Afghanistan  roughly 62% of all U.S. reconstruction funding.

Yet, according to Attiqullah Amarkhiel, the Afghan army of today is half as good as the army left by the former Soviet Union when it withdrew in 1989, ending it 10-year occupation of Afghanistan.

Amarkhiel was major general in the 1989 Moscow-allied Afghan army and served in the post-Taliban government of President Hamid Karzai. He helped build the security forces following the fall of the Taliban in 2001.

The army of 1989 were professional soldiers who had graduated from high school and later a military academy, he said. That army numbered around 150,000 troops, compared to the 300,000 today. But then we had quality. Today we have quantity.

In contrast, recruits to the post-Taliban security forces were mostly uneducated, often allied with warlords, he said. Training lasted barely six to eight weeks, he said. The intention was to build up the numbers and get them onto the battlefield, Amarkhiel told the AP.

After the Soviet withdrawal, the Moscow-allied president, Najibullah, held on to power for three years. His eventual collapse, Amarkhiel said, came because of divisions within his own government, which led several of his generals to abandon him.

The same is true now. The collapse, if it comes, will come from within, he said.

___

Associated Press writer Tameem Akhgar in Kabul, Afghanistan, contributed to this report.

___

Follow Kathy Gannon on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Kathygannon
When a video went viral last May showing Amy Cooper falsely telling police that a Black birdwatcher in Central Park was threatening her life, she swiftly became a national symbol of White privilege, faced criminal charges and lost her job.

Manhattan prosecutors have since dropped the charges. Now she wants payback from her former employer.

Cooper this week sued investment firm Franklin Templeton, claiming the company did not perform a legitimate investigation before firing her and alleging that they falsely labeled her a racist as she became nationally known as "Central Park Karen."

"Franklin Templeton's alleged investigation and results provided legitimacy to the 'Karen' story, and appeared to provide justification for those who sought the destruction of the Plaintiff's life," says the lawsuit, which was filed in New York federal court on Tuesday and argues that she's the victim of racial discrimination.

In a statement to The Washington Post, a spokeswoman for Franklin Templeton said the company "responded appropriately" by firing Cooper.

"We believe the circumstances of the situation speak for themselves," the statement said. "We will defend against these baseless claims."

Cooper's lawsuit comes exactly a year after her encounter with Christian Cooper (who is not related) in Manhattan's Central Park on May 25, 2020. Christian Cooper, an avid birdwatcher, was in a wooded area of the park at around 7:30 a.m., when he saw Amy Cooper's dog unleashed and running around.

Christian Cooper, a writer, editor and LGBTQ rights activist, informed her that dogs in that area had to remain on the leash. When Amy Cooper refused to follow the rules, Christian Cooper pulled out his phone and began recording. Amy Cooper then threatened to call the police.

"I can be racially intimidated and kowtow to her," Christian Cooper told The Post last May, but "I'm not going to participate in my own dehumanization."

As Christian Cooper filmed, Amy Cooper called 911.

"I'm going to tell them there's an African American man threatening my life," she said, later repeating Christian Cooper's race.

Christian Cooper's sister later posted the video to Twitter, where it racked up tens of million of views. The incident - which unfolded the same day that George Floyd was killed by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin - made national headlines and swiftly became a flash point for outrage over racial injustice.

The consequences for Amy Cooper were significant. Hours after the video went online, Franklin Templeton posted a statement on Twitter condemning racism and saying she had been suspended while the firm investigated. The next day, the company said that it had fired her.

Although Franklin Templeton didn't name Amy Cooper in its statements, she claims in her lawsuit that she was so well known by this point that the company's decision effectively labeled her a racist "with reckless disregard for the destruction of Plaintiff's life in the process."

The former portfolio manager alleges that Franklin Templeton "performed no investigation" into the incident, did not interview her or Christian Cooper, and made no attempt at obtaining her full 911 call.

Additionally, the company overlooked her achievements as a "exceptional employee" who earned "high performer bonuses" three years in a row, the lawsuit says, and instead defamed her and discriminated against her based on her race and gender.

As a result, the complaint alleges, Amy Cooper "suffered substantial loss of earnings and benefits and endured severe emotional distress, and will continue to do so in the future."

In the lawsuit, Amy Cooper demanded that the company compensate her for lost wages, emotional distress, attorneys fees and punitive damages, among others.

Last summer, Cooper's case inspired N.Y. Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo to sign a bill that included criminal penalties for false 911 calls that are racially motivated.

In October, the Manhattan district attorney charged her with a misdemeanor for false reporting. But in February, prosecutors dismissed the case after Amy Cooper completed a counseling program.

In an opinion piece for The Post last July, Christian Cooper said he would not participate in the district attorney's case against Amy Cooper.

"Considering that Amy Cooper has already lost her job and her reputation, it's hard to see what is to be gained by a criminal charge, aside from the upholding of principle," he wrote. "If her current setbacks aren't deterrent enough to others seeking to weaponize race, it's unlikely the threat of legal action would change that."

- - -

The Washington Post's Meryl Kornfield contributed to this report.
ABOARD HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH (AP)  NATO has helped provide security in Afghanistan for almost two decades but the government and armed forces in the conflict-torn country are strong enough to stand on their own feet without international troops to back them, the head of the military organization said Thursday.

NATO took charge of security efforts in Afghanistan in 2003, two years after a U.S.-led coalition ousted the Taliban for harboring former Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden. Fewer than 9,000 troops remain, including up to 3,500 US personnel, and they are scheduled to leave by Sept. 11 at the latest.

I think that the Afghans, they also realize that we have been there now for 20 years and we have invested heavily in blood and treasure in Afghanistan, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told The Associated Press, aboard a U.K. aircraft carrier involved in wargames off the coast of Portugal.

Afghanistan has come a long way, both when it comes to building strong, capable security forces, but also when it comes to social and economic progress. At some stage, it has to be the Afghans that take full responsibility for peace and stability in their own country, Stoltenberg said in an interview.

But as NATO troops leave, much of the country stands as contested ground. The government in Kabul holds hold sway in towns and cities, but the Taliban dominate the countryside. Some of the heaviest fighting this year took place just this week, in Laghman province in the east.

Stoltenberg said that NATO countries would continue to support Afghanistan through civilian experts who will help to advise government ministries, by funding the security forces and with support for slow-moving peace talks between Kabul and the Taliban.

He said that NATO is also looking into the possibility of providing some training out of country for the Afghan security forces, but no final decision has been taken.

U.S. military leaders are still grappling with how best to carry out President Joe Bidens order to withdraw all American troops from Afghanistan by September while helping Afghan forces and monitoring the threat that prompted the U.S. invasion of the country 20 years ago.

Biden and Stoltenberg will meet with the other leaders of the 30-nation military alliance on June 14 to usher in a new era in trans-Atlantic ties after four tumultuous years of the former Trump administration. The other big issue will be Afghanistan, although no Afghan leaders are due to attend the Brussels summit.

Asked about the impact of leaving Afghanistan without the security guarantee that has helped keep the Taliban at bay, Stoltenberg conceded that there are risks entailed to the decision of ending NATOs military mission in Afghanistan. We have been very transparent and clear-eyed about that.

At the same time, to continue to stay means that we will also have to take some risks; the risk of more fighting, the risk of being forced to increase the number of troops there, and the risk of remaining with a (military) mission, he said.

Many of the international troops in Afghanistan will already have left by the time the leaders meet next month. Americas allies in Europe, plus Canada, rely on U.S. logistical and transport help to operate in Afghanistan and could only follow once Biden announced the withdrawal.

Many officials have expressed concern that once the U.S. leaves, the government and its armed forces will be quickly overrun by the Taliban. Violence has steadily mounted in recent months as the drawdown gathered pace.

It remains unclear what level of security might be needed, and who would provide it, to protect international embassies spread around the capital Kabul. The citys airport, the main international gateway to Afghanistan, and the route to it must also be protected.

Stoltenberg said that NATO plans to provide financial support to keep Kabul airport up and running, but  just a few months before the alliance ends its biggest, costliest and most ambitious mission ever  the details of how all this might play out remained unclear.
PHOENIX (AP)  Arizona lawmakers voted Thursday to ban certain types of anti-racism training for government workers, but the Senate rejected a proposal to fine teachers for failing to discuss all sides of controversial issues.

Senate Republicans joined a national conservative backlash against critical race theory, which seeks to highlight how racist policies of the past manifest today. Critics say it pits races against each other and teaches whites that they are responsible for past injustices.

The Senate voted to prohibit the use of any public funds on employee training that presents any form of blame or judgment on the basis of race, ethnicity or sex."

I think its inappropriate to use taxpayer money in a public setting to teach racism, said Sen. Kelly Townsend, a Republican from Mesa.

This year, ahead of the 2022 midterms, Republicans in at least 16 states have introduced proposals targeting critical race theory.

Sen. Martin Quezada, a Glendale Democrat, said the legislation takes Arizona backwards at a time when people should be seeking better understanding of people of different races.

These are uncomfortable conversations," Quezada said. They arent supposed to make you feel good. Thats the point of these conversations.

The measure has already passed the House and goes next to Gov. Doug Ducey.

Meanwhile, the Senate rejected a bill to require teachers to present all perspectives of controversial issues as best they can. State or county prosecutors could seek fines of up to $5,000 for any violation, which could not be paid by the school. Supporters said the measure would prevent indoctrination, while critics said it would make teachers scared to discuss topics that might be considered controversial.

Republican Sen. Paul Boyer of Glendale, who is a teacher, joined all 15 Democrats in opposition, sinking the measure.

I dont think that those who deal with felonies should be monitoring classrooms and snooping around to see if theres something controversial going on, Boyer said, adding the measure would exacerbate a teacher shortage.
News reports from Washington said Biden has finalized a list of several ambassadorships. The administration has been leaking the names to media outlets, and several including the Associated Press, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, NBC News and Axios, were reporting late Wednesday and early Thursday that the president has selected Thomas Nides as the next ambassador to Israel.
LEWISTON, Maine (AP)  Bates College kept with its tradition of holding its commencement on the historic quad on Thursday.

But there was a nod to the pandemic. Nearly 479 degrees were conferred in two complete ceremonies, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, each featuring half of the senior class.
ST. CHARLES, Mo. (AP)  Black leaders called Thursday for federal prosecutors to file hate crime charges after a judge gave a lenient sentence to a white Missouri man who stockpiled explosives meant to target the Black Lives Matter movement and other protesters.

Cameron Swoboda, 26, pleaded guilty earlier this month to three felony counts of unlawful possession, transport, manufacture, repair or sale of an illegal weapon. St. Charles County Circuit Judge Deborah Alessi suspended a seven-year sentence, gave Swoboda credit for 60 days served in jail, and placed him on probation for five years.

Police in June seized explosive material and emptied-out shotgun shells at Swoboda's apartment in St. Charles County, near St. Louis. Authorities also found six altered grenades, the makings of two pipe bombs and a claymore-style mine enhanced with BBs, all of which were hidden along a rural road.

Swoboda's friends went to police to express worries that he was planning a large-scale attack on protesters, according to charging documents. They said he had expressed dislike for the the Black Lives Matter movement and Black and Hispanic people.

As a condition of his probation, Swoboda was ordered to get mental health treatment and can't possess any guns.

Black leaders who spoke at a news conference in front of the St. Charles County Courthouse said that in 2015, two Black men were sent to prison for seven years for planning to bomb public buildings and police cars during protests that followed Michael Brown's death in Ferguson, Missouri. They questioned why Swoboda didn't get at least a similar sentence when he already had the weapons in hand at a time when racial injustice protests were common in the St. Louis region and elsewhere after George Floyd's death in Minneapolis.

Now we have a Republican judge who gives a green light to a would-be assassin, said the Rev. Darryl Gray, a St. Louis activist leader and protest organizer.

A phone message left with Alessi's office wasn't immediately returned.

Missouri NAACP President Nimrod Chapel Jr. noted that his organization in 2017 issued a travel advisory warning people against travel to Missouri, citing racist incidents, a state law making it harder to sue for discrimination and the far greater likelihood that Black motorists will be pulled over. The advisory, Chapel, said, remains in effect.

This case is a prime example of why, Chapel said. The idea that an individual could construct explosives in his home, place those roadside, and at the same time escape accountability for that behavior is unparalleled.

Black leaders questioned why St. Charles County Prosecuting Attorney Tim Lohmar didn't pursue state hate crime charges against Swoboda. Lohmar's spokeswoman, Leslie Knight, declined comment.

Gray said the Black leaders are seeking a federal hate crime investigation. But Swoboda's attorney, Jason Korner, said he was told by the U.S. Attorney's office last year that no federal hate crime investigation was planned.

Korner said Swoboda suffers from several mental health issues, and has received intensive treatment since he was charged.

Its really working, Korner said. Hes really doing well.

Black leaders wondered what could happen if the treatment stops working.

He was really going to cause harm to a bunch of people, said Adolphus Pruitt, St. Louis city NAACP president.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP)  Democrats who control the state Senate said Thursday they intend to advance a 10-bill package to the Assembly in the next week as California rushes to prepare for an intensifying drought and what officials fear could be a repeat of last year's record wildfire season.

The package seeks, in part, to boost state firefighter ranks long-term while beefing up standards for new housing developments. It also seeks to promote more prescribed burns and increased efforts to protect individual homes from wildfires.

We know that there is no silver bullet. We must deploy multiple strategies ... to combat what will be and what is an evolving crisis, not just in California but the entire Western United States," said Sen. Mike McGuire, co-chairman of the seven-member wildfire working group created by Senate leader Toni Atkins. "We know that this evolving crisis is going to mean additional wildfires, wildfires burning larger, more destructive and intense.

The long-term average of land burned each year in California has doubled in the past five years to 2,500 square miles (4,000 square kilometers), he said. Last year's fires scorched 4% of the state  6,653 square miles (17,231 square kilometers), while killing 33 people and torching more than 10,000 homes and other structures.

Yet there already are 8,000 homes in extreme fire risk zones, he said.

He's carrying a bill that would require cities and counties to create fire safety standards before they permit housing development in very high fire risk areas.

That means things like improved primary and secondary entry and exit roads, with plans for getting emergency equipment on the scene quickly. Local governments would have to plan for maintaining defensible space around homes and fuel breaks around communities.

Developers would have to build in the least-risky areas of the project and prepare evacuation plans. It would require the state fire marshal to develop additional mandatory standards that local governments would have to meet before allowing new housing in the most vulnerable areas.

The bill is opposed by builders and other business and real estate groups. Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a different version last year.

This is going to target almost half of the production in California, the half that is most affordable to Californians, said Nick Cammarota, the California Building Industry Association's senior vice president and general counsel.

While the ideas sound logical, he said the bill is rife with ambiguities, inconsistencies and redundancies in the details, creating a labyrinth of regulations that really are impossible to achieve.

A second bill without opposition would extend current building standards for the highest-risk areas down to moderate-risk areas, while providing grants to promote defensible space around homes.

That's intended to help shield homes from wind-driven embers that can turn a single vulnerable home into a bomb in a neighborhood that changes everything" by igniting those around it, Sen. Henry Stern said.

It cant just be prevention, we have to look at how we develop in the state of California, Stern said. To just blindly build deeper and deeper into very high fire severity zones without any of those safety standards in place will only exacerbate this risk further.

Two other measures aim to aid former inmates. One would promote utilities hiring of former inmate firefighters, while the other would create a Northern California forest management training center for former inmates. A third would expand firefighters legal rights to include seasonal employees.

Another bill would create a new section within the state Office of Emergency Services to test and promote the latest wildfire prevention and suppression technology.

The state would make it less legally risky to use prescribed burns by requiring a gross negligence liability standard for those trained to start the preemptive fires and for property owners who hire certified burn bosses.

Two more bills are intended to help property owners in wildfire-prone areas who no longer can get or afford insurance. One would extend the state's property insurance plan of last resort to farms, ranches and grape growers, while the second would prioritize vegetation management projects in areas that are at risk of seeing insurance coverage disappear or become unaffordable.

Three-quarters of senators are Democrats, though they said they hope for bipartisan support in advancing the bills by the Legislature's June 4 deadline for initially passing bills. They also released a two-page blueprint outlining longer-term goals surrounding the legislation.

They plan to include $1 billion for new wildfire mitigation efforts in the budget they pass by June 15 on top of $536 million approved earlier this year. That tracks the governor's $2 billion proposal, they said, but his larger figure includes ongoing spending for things like new firefighting helicopters and fixed-wing airtankers.

The legislative package also includes a $5.6 billion borrowing plan to prepare for wildfires, drought and floods that lawmakers had intended to put before voters next year. But senators said much of that spending has been included in the current spending plan as the state enjoys a record, if temporary, revenue surplus.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  California is giving away the country's largest pot of vaccine prize money  $116.5 million  in an attempt to get millions more inoculated before the most populous state fully reopens next month.

Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday announced the prizes, which include $1.5 million each for 10 Californians, the largest single award offered in any state.

The goal is to motivate roughly 12 million people who are eligible but not yet vaccinated, though the more than 20 million Californians already partially or fully vaccinated also are in the running for the most valuable prizes.

We're putting aside more resources than any other state in America, and were making available the largest prizes of any state in America for those that seek to get vaccinated," Newsom announced at an East Los Angeles high school where people were being vaccinated in the gymnasium.

The state will give $50 gift cards either for general use or for specific grocery stores to the next 2 million people who get shots, including those at the school where Newsom spoke.

Newsom, a freshman Democrat facing a likely recall election in the fall, defended the spending as smart policy aimed at ensuring more than 70% of eligible people are inoculated before the state fully reopens businesses and relaxes social distancing and masking rules on June 15.

On that day, a drawing will be held to award 10 vaccinated people the top prize. Another 30 people will win $50,000 each, with those drawings starting June 4.

Anyone 12 and older who has received at least one shot will be eligible. The state will use its immunization database to automatically enter people into the drawings, though it's still exploring how to include those vaccinated at federal facilities, such as veterans hospitals.

Newsom said he hopes to give out all the gift cards by June 15, which would mean 2 million more people are vaccinated.

Money for the prizes will come from the states disaster response account, which will be reimbursed by federal coronavirus relief money, said Amelia Matier, a Newsom spokeswoman.

When asked if the expense is worth it, the governor replied that the cost of not getting vaccinated is exponentially, incalculably higher."

About 63% of the 34 million Californians 12 and older have gotten shots, though the pace has slowed as infection rates have plummeted to record lows. The number of people getting their first shots dropped notably in the past week, and the state is trying to not go off a cliff in the next week or two, Newsom said.

California joins a growing list of states offering incentives to boost vaccination rates.

Ohio this week announced the first $1 million winner of its Vax-a-Million contest, as well as the first child to win a full college scholarship. The number of people signing up for shots jumped after Republican Gov. Mike DeWine announced the lottery, though it was still lower than earlier in the pandemic. Colorado and Oregon also offered $1 million prizes.

New York is raffling 50 full scholarships to children 12 to 17 to public universities and colleges in the state, selecting 10 winners each of the next five Wednesdays.

That California is turning to cash prizes to encourage vaccinations marks a major turnaround from earlier this year, when residents clamored for shots. Some drove or waited in line for hours, and others found ways to get into line when they weren't eligible.

State Sen. Richard Pan, a doctor and staunch advocate for vaccines, said it makes sense that demand dropped off after early adopters eager to get the vaccine had their chance. While some Californians will never get the shot, many hung back to see the effect, and others simply didn't consider the shot a priority, he said.

With Memorial Day coming and the state's reopening about two weeks later, it's a good time to incentivize people," Pan said.

Republican John Cox, who is running for governor, again accused Newsom of buying votes. The governor has been doling out slices of a record $76 billion state budget surplus this month, including cash payments to low- and middle-income Californians.

This is 100 million more reasons that Gavin Newsom must be recalled," he said, referencing the amount the state will give out in gift cards.

But Rob Stutzman, who served as a spokesman for former Republican Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, called it smart policy.

I hope Republicans resist being critical of this," he tweeted, noting it was Ohio's GOP governor who first came up with the idea.

Newsoms office said the program would be aimed at reaching people in communities hardest hit by the pandemic  mainly low-income, Black and Latino people  but it wasn't clear if the state is pursuing any new initiatives to vaccinate those populations.

Dr. Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo, an epidemiologist at the University of California, San Francisco, noted cash and prize incentives often dont address the most important challenge of reaching poorer communities.

Surveys have shown unvaccinated Latinos are twice as likely as whites to want a vaccine but may be unable to get time off work, live far from a vaccination site, or fear theyll be charged for a shot, she said.

These types of strategies don't work in sometimes our lower-income, minority populations where we intend them to work if we don't at the same time lower those barriers  whether it's digital or transportation or language," Bibbins-Domingo said. Were at a point in the pandemic where access should not be the issue."

Newsom pointed to a Get Out the Vaccine" program the state is running with 70 community-based organizations. It features about 2,000 workers in vulnerable communities, encouraging their peers to make a plan to get vaccinated. Those workers will now share details of the prize money, he said.

California uses a vaccine equity metric to track vaccination progress that splits zip codes into four groups from least to most healthy, based on a number of factors. Nearly half of people in the least advantaged neighborhoods still havent been vaccinated, according to the state.

By contrast, less than a quarter of people in the most advantaged areas havent been vaccinated.

Among all Latinos, 57% are not yet vaccinated. Thats the highest percentage of any racial or ethnic group. State figures show 40% of white Californians are not vaccinated.

Few people trickled into the vaccination site Newsom toured before his announcement, despite the offer of three free tacos and Pepsi or Mountain Dew being served by Oaxaca on Wheels.

Evelyn Saldana, 16, a student at the school who is still learning remotely, had been alerted about the clinic by a teacher and brought her mother. They had no idea they would be eligible for gift cards and big cash prizes. They had only shown up because they had been wanting a vaccine and it was convenient.

Saldana said the prize money might motivate a reluctant friend who has been holding out and isnt sure she wants the shot.

I could tell her, Saldana said. Shed probably want to get it.
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP)  The North Dakota Capitol will resume public tours on June 1 after suspending them for more than a year, state officials said Thursday.

The news comes on the heels of data which shows the number of active COVID-19 cases has dropped about 51% this month, going from 995 on May 1 to 508 on May 26.
MILWAUKEE (AP)  Lois Ehlert, whose cut-and-paste shapes and vibrant hues in books including Chicka Chicka Boom Boom put her among the most popular illustrators of books for preschoolers of the late 20th century, has died. She was 86.

Publisher Simon & Schuster said that Ehlert died of natural causes on Tuesday in Milwaukee.

In 1989's Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, Ehlert created the hyper-simple brown-and-green coconut tree and the multicolored capital letters who try to gather at the top of it, threatening to bring it tumbling to the ground as the text repeats, Chicka chicka boom boom! Will there be enough room?

The book sold more than 12 million copies, according to Simon & Schuster.

She worked primarily by cutting out shapes and pasting them into collages, much like the preschoolers who were her primary audience.

In 1990, she was given a Caldecott Honor as the author and illustrator of Color Zoo, which uses basic triangles, rectangles, squares and circles to create images of animals in oversaturated oranges, purples and greens. Its only words are the names of the shapes and creatures themselves.

Ehlert was born in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin and graduated from Milwaukee's Layton School of Art. She worked in graphic design before she began illustrating children's books in her 50s, starting with 1987's Growing Vegetable Soup.

Her other books include 1988's Planting a Rainbow, 1989's Eating the Alphabet and 2001's Waiting for Wings.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP)  The former CEO of a Rhode Island hospital who has been consulting with the state's behavioral health department has been nominated to lead the agency.

On Wednesday, Gov. Dan McKee nominated Richard Charest, the former president and CEO of Landmark Medical Center, to head the state's Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals, the Providence Journal reported.

Charest has been consulting with the agency since last August about the management and operations of Eleanor Slater Hospital, which cares for long-term psychiatric patients who also have medical needs, the newspaper reported.

The states Health and Human Services Secretary Womazetta Jones has been temporarily overseeing the agency since the resignation of the former director Kathryn Power last month.

The governor asked Jones to conduct a review of the hospitals operations, staffing and patient care standards. It has come under fire over a downsizing plan that critics say has led to the discharge of patients with few or no care alternatives.

Charest was CEO of the Woonsocket-based Landmark Medical Center when it was sold to a for-profit, California-based hospital system in 2013. The hospital was under receivership at the time of the sale. Charest remained as CEO and oversaw major investments in the hospital building as well as hiring new staff and raising the pay of union and nonunion workers, the newspaper reported.

We have an opportunity to make meaningful change to a critical state department that is decades overdue, Charest said Wednesday.

McKee will submit his nomination to the Senate for confirmation, the newspaper reported.
Murphy said he didnt recall being invited to the fundraiser but ultimately did not travel to Florida for it. Its unclear who did attend, though the day of the fundraiser, Gaetzs campaign reported $5,400 in contributions from Bergmann, the co-founder of the marijuana company now known as Parallel, and another $5,400 from Bergmanns then-wife. Federal campaign donations were capped at $5,400 per candidate per cycle at the time.
SAN DIEGO (AP)  Four California colleges and universities failed to accurately or completely report crime statistics as required by federal law, including Sonoma State University that did not include a sexual assault that had occurred on campus in 2019, according to a state audit whose findings were released Thursday.

The institutions were the University of California, Irvine, San Joaquin Delta College, Santa Clara University, and Sonoma State University. The audit found each had inaccurate or incomplete information to varying degrees.
NEW YORK (AP)  Health care workers demonstrating against anti-Asian bias were joined by actor and longtime activist Danny Glover on Thursday at a rally, where he spoke of solidarity and communities supporting each other.

Glover told the crowd of local 1199SEIU union members and residents of Manhattan's Chinatown neighborhoods, We stand here, will stand here, well fight here. Weve got your back.
For Stephanie Davis, who grew up with little, the military was a path to the American dream, a realm where everyone would receive equal treatment.

She joined the Air Force in 1988 and steadily advanced over the course of decades, becoming a flight surgeon, commander of flight medicine at Fairchild Air Force Base and, eventually, a lieutenant colonel.

But many of her service colleagues, Davis says, viewed her only as a Black woman. Or for the white resident colleagues who gave her the call sign of ABW  it was a joke, they insisted  an angry black woman, a classic racist trope.

White subordinates often refused to salute her and she was attacked with racial slurs, she said.

For Blacks and minorities, when we initially experience racism or discrimination in the military, we feel blindsided, Davis said. Were taught to believe that its the one place where everybody has a level playing field and that we can make it to the top with work thats based on merit.

In interviews with The Associated Press, current and former enlistees and officers in nearly every branch of the armed services described a deep-rooted culture of racism and discrimination that stubbornly festers, despite repeated efforts to eradicate it.

The AP found that the militarys judicial system has no explicit category for hate crimes, making it difficult to quantify crimes motivated by prejudice.

The Defense Department also has no way to track the number of troops ousted for extremist views, despite its repeated pledges to root them out. More than 20 people linked to the Jan. 6 siege of the U.S. Capitol were found to have military ties.

The AP also found that the Uniform Code of Military Justice does not adequately address discriminatory incidents and that rank-and-file people of color commonly face courts-martial panels made up of all-white service members, which some experts argue can lead to harsher outcomes.

The military said it processed more than 750 complaints of discrimination by race or ethnicity from service members in the fiscal year 2020 alone. But discrimination doesnt exist just within the military rank-and-file. That same fiscal year, civilians working in the financial, technical and support sectors of the Army, Air Force and Navy also filed 900 complaints of racial discrimination and over 350 complaints of discrimination by skin color, data from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission shows.

In February, Lloyd J. Austin III  a former Army general who now is secretary of defense, the first Black man to serve in the post  ordered commanders and supervisors to take an operational pause for one day to discuss extremism in the ranks with their service members.

The Southern Poverty Law Center sent Austin a letter shortly after his order, applauding him for his decisive action but underscoring that systemic change on all military levels is urgent.

Those who are indoctrinated into white supremacist ideology present a significant threat to national security and the safety of our communities, SPLC President Margaret Huang wrote.

In a statement to the AP, the Defense Department said extremism is not widespread in the armed forces, but acknowledged that efforts to stamp out extremist views from the rank-and-file have historically been reactive versus proactive until recently. Pentagon spokesman Maj. Cesar Santiago pointed to Austins stand-down order in February that stressed the oath of office taken by military personnel, including a commitment to protecting our nation from enemies foreign and domestic.

Santiago added that we know that far too many service members indicate they experience discrimination. He noted that the Defense Department had launched multiple efforts in the past year, including updating its anti-harassment policy, assessing its training on implicit bias, and developing data-driven strategies to guide efforts to attract and retain diverse members and also identify unhealthy work environments.

In the midst of last years summer of unrest sparked by police killings of Black Americans across the nation, Army Gen. Mark A. Milley, who is also the Department of Defenses Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told congressional leaders the military cannot afford racism or discrimination.

We who wear the cloth of our nation understand that cohesion is a force multiplier, Milley said. Divisiveness leads to defeat.

Austin pledged to rid the ranks of racists and extremists during his confirmation hearing before Congress, which came on the heels of the Capitol insurrection.

The job of the Department of Defense is to keep America safe from our enemies, he said. But we cant do that if some of those enemies lie within our own ranks.

At the end of 2020, the Defense Department released a report aimed at identifying ways to improve racial and ethnic diversity in the U.S. military. Among the findings: The enlisted ranks of the active and reserve military were slightly more racially and ethnically diverse than its U.S. civilian counterparts. But not the officer corps.

The breakdown of all active commissioned officers: 73% white; 8% each Black and Hispanic; 6% Asian; 4% multiracial; and less than 1% Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, American Indian or Alaska Native. And the diversity gap widened the higher individuals moved up in the ranks.

Several Black officers interviewed by the AP said the culture must give way if they are ever to flourish.

Thomas Hobbs, an infantry colonel who retired after 27 years of service in the Marine Corps in 2018, was among those who spoke of the pressures of trying to blend into an overwhelmingly white male culture.

Hobbs said the Marines have done better than other branches of the service in recruiting Black candidates into the officer corps, but noted that many of them dont stay in the military past their 10th year.

Why dont they stay in? Because theyre exhausted from having to act a certain way all the time and they can never be themselves, Hobbs said.

Other service members of color detailed incidents in which they said they were discouraged by superiors from openly embracing their cultures. Some said they were told to avoid speaking languages other than English to not offend their mostly white colleagues.

And some Black women detailed the challenges they faced navigating a culture that often labels them as aggressive or difficult and their natural hair as unkempt or unprofessional.

Now, a round of sweeping changes to the National Defense Authorization Act  which primarily funds and lays out policies governing the Defense Department and military services  could present a unique opportunity to turn the tide.

A bill passed earlier this year ordered the Secretary of Defense to devise a plan to remove all names, symbols and monuments that honor the Confederacy, including renaming military bases such as Fort Benning and Fort Hood, which honor Confederate leaders.

Several years ago, they uncovered a cell of white supremacists down at Fort Bragg, U.S. House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn recalled in an interview with the AP. Were they there because of the attitudes they brought with them or were they celebrating the fact that Fort Bragg is named after a segregationist?

The bill also lays out tracking mechanisms and reporting requirements for supremacist, extremist and criminal gang activity, and creates an inspector general to oversee diversity and inclusion efforts.

When Stephanie Davis was medically retired by the Air Force in 2019 after more than two decades of service, she felt ground down by overt racism and

noted how insidious it can be to members of the ranks  service members entrust their lives to their fellow troops, and a lack of cohesion in a unit can be deadly.

It creates a harmful and dangerous work environment, she said. And a lot of us suffer in silence because we feel like theres nothing that can be done.

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EDITORS NOTE: As a Marine lance corporal, James LaPorta once served under the command of Col. Thomas Hobbs, but did not work for him directly.

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Contact APs global investigative team at Investigative@ap.org or https://www.ap.org/tips/
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP)  Doug Emhoff, the husband of Vice President Kamala Harris, campaigned Thursday with a Democratic congressional candidate in New Mexico, marking his first such trip on behalf of a candidate.

Emhoff appeared with Melanie Stansbury, the Democrat running in Tuesdays special election for New Mexicos 1st Congressional District. The safe Democratic district came open after Rep. Deb Haaland became President Joe Biden's Interior Department secretary.

Emhoff told a crowd of labor union members and other supporters that Stansbury was a serious public servant who if elected could help get the Democrats jobs plan to the presidents desk. He and state Democratic Party officials acknowledged during the rally that Democrats hold a thin margin in Congress.

Its crunch time. Dont look at the polls. Dont look at anything. Act like were down. Theres a sense of urgency, right? he said, as he pumped up the crowd and asked them to get their friends and family members to vote.

Biden recently endorsed Stansbury, noting her background as a state representative and scientist and declaring in a statement that she has the grit and determination to deliver real results for all New Mexicans.

Aside from this being Emhoffs first campaign travel for a candidate, its one of his first forays into campaign politics for the Biden administration; the president and Harris have stayed away from political events since taking office. Emhoff, however, joined new Democratic National Committee chair Jaime Harrison for his first virtual fundraiser in March.

He is otherwise a prolific surrogate for the Biden administration, frequently traveling to sell the presidents COVID-19 relief plan and his infrastructure proposal to the American public.

Emhoff visited an Indigenous community in northern New Mexico earlier this year as part of the COVID-19 vaccination campaign. On Thursday, he again touted vaccines.

Republican candidate and state Sen. Mark Moores in a statement described Emhoffs latest visit as a photo opportunity, saying that he should have instead visited with local law enforcement about persisent crime in the heart of the district and should have talked with the families of victims.

Emhoff was scheduled to stop by an early voting location Friday to wrap up his campaign swing for Stansbury.

Despite Democratic voters outnumbering Republicans 2-to-1 in the district, which covers New Mexico's most populated area, Stansbury said the race is being watched closely and that everything is on the line." She reiterated campaign promises to address poverty and homelessness and push for a living wage.

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Jaffe reported from Washington.
CAIRO (AP)  Egypt has invited Israel, Hamas and the Palestinian Authority for separate talks that aim at consolidating the cease-fire that ended an 11-day war between Israel and the Gaza Strips militant Hamas rulers, an Egyptian intelligence official said Thursday. The talks would also focus on accelerating the reconstruction process in Gaza.

We are seeking a long-term truce, that would enable further discussions and possibly direct talks, said the official, who had close knowledge of the proceedings that had led to the ceasefire and who spoke on condition of anonymity because he wasn't allowed to brief reporters.

The 11-day war killed more than 250 people, mostly Palestinians, and caused heavy destruction in the impoverished coastal territory. Preliminary estimates have put the damage in the hundreds of millions of dollars. Egypt was key in mediating a deal between the two sides.

He said the talks could start as early as next week, and that Israel has given their initial approval, but that a final agenda is still in the works. He said that there are talks about a possible release of Palestinian prisoners in Israel in return for Israelis held by Hamas. Both issues were discussed with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken during his visit yesterday, and with the Qatari Foreign Minister who was in Cairo on Tuesday.

An Israeli official said that the government is working closely with Egyptian officials to reinforce the cease-fire,' but would not confirm whether Israeli officials would be attending more official talks soon. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was discussing behind-the-scenes diplomacy.

Blinken wrapped up a two-day Mideast visit Wednesday also aimed at solidifying the ceasefire and raising money for reconstruction. One of the U.S. goals is to ensure that any assistance be kept out of the hands of Hamas, which opposes Israels right to exist and which Israel and the U.S. consider a terrorist group.

The Egyptian official said one possible mechanism for ensuring that is an international committee led by Egypt or the United Nations that would oversee the spending.

Abdelatif al-Qanou, a spokesman for Hamas, confirmed that the group's leader Ismail Haniyeh would visit Cairo next week and that the group is open to discussing a prisoner swap.

El-Qanoua said the talks in Cairo would also address ways to achieve Palestinian unity between those in Gaza and Israeli-occupied areas of the West Bank.

There was no immediate comment from the Palestinian Authority on its attendence.

The Gaza Strip has been governed by Hamas since the group seized power from the Palestinian Authority in 2007, which resulted in a tight blockade by Israel and Egypt. Since then, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has governed autonomous areas of the Israeli-occupied West Bank and has limited influence in Gaza.

The war was triggered by weeks of clashes in Jerusalem between Israeli police and Palestinian protesters in and around the Al-Aqsa Mosque, built on a hilltop compound revered by Jews and Muslims that has seen several outbreaks of Israeli-Palestinian violence over the years. The protests were directed at Israels policing of the area during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and the threatened eviction of dozens of Palestinian families by Jewish settlers.

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Associated Press writer Joe Federman in Jerusalem contributed to this report.
GAFFNEY, S.C. (AP)  A former police officer in South Carolina stole ammunition from his department and sold it to a gun range, state police said.

Theodore Robert Martin, 33, was arrested Tuesday and charged with breach of trust with fraudulent intent and misconduct in office. according to warrants from the State Law Enforcement Division.
Faith leaders, celebrities and lawmakers across the political spectrum joined Thursday to condemn a rise in antisemitic incidents around the world triggered by the recent conflict between Israel and Gazas militant Hamas rulers.

Organized by leading U.S. Jewish groups, the virtual Day of Action Against Antisemitism included calls for policy changes and a unified stand against antisemitism in America. Among the participants were Rabbi Moshe Hauer, executive vice president of the Orthodox Union; top leaders on Capitol Hill; and Roman Catholic Cardinal and New York Archbishop Timothy Dolan.

In the last few weeks, we have seen a disturbing spike in bigotry and violence against Jewish communities across the country and around the world," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said. "This hatred is horrific and heartbreaking.

Americans must come together with urgency and unity to condemn these appalling acts of hatred. ... It is our moral duty to confront this evil wherever and whenever it arises, she added.

Preliminary data compiled by the Anti-Defamation League shows an increase in antisemitic attacks, vandalism and harassment around the world and online, sparked by the 11-day war that ended with a cease-fire last week.

We are living through some treacherous times as we've seen this rise of antisemitic acts in the past weeks, said Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the ADL. "They have been brazen and brutal, affecting our family members and friends, our colleagues and neighbors and all of us in the Jewish community.

We know it's scary," Greenblatt said, "but also know this: We are steadfast in our commitment to fight anti-Jewish hate, whenever and wherever it happens.

Incidents that have raised concerns include the yelling of antisemitic remarks at a rabbi in front of a South Florida synagogue by a man who later returned to dump a bag of human feces there; an attack on diners and the chasing of a man in a heavily Jewish neighborhood of Los Angeles; and a gang assault against a Jewish man in New York City, where pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian demonstrators clashed in Times Square.

"Bigots are trying to make our Jewish brothers and sisters live in fear in their own homes, on their own streets, in their own places of worship, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said Thursday. ... In America we have the right to speak out forcefully against intolerance, and it's not just our right, it's our duty.

His political rival across the aisle, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, agreed that antisemitism has no place in the United States and combating it is not a partisan issue.

Elana Broitman, head of public affairs for the Jewish Federations of North America, hopes for concrete steps such as naming more people in the Biden administration to focus on combating antisemitism and getting more government funding to safeguard synagogues and other houses of worship.

Whether its us, whether its the Asian American community, the African American churches that have been attacked, Sikh temples, etc., this is important to all of us, she said ahead of the rally.

The event also featured statements of support by Muslim and Christian leaders, including a prayer led by Cardinal Dolan.

Indifference is our enemy, and we Catholics cannot be indifferent to the suffering of our Jewish brothers and sisters," said Dolan, who plans to attend a special Shabbat service Friday at New York's Temple Emanu-El. "And we're honored and enthusiastic in standing in solidarity with you and acting against antisemitism.

TV host and producer Nick Cannon, who last year apologized for making what he called hurtful and divisive antisemitic comments, also spoke against hatred and discrimination.

As someone who has dealt with my own outspokenness, over the last year," Cannon said, I've learned a lot about how hurting other people is never going to help the overall idea of bringing us all together on this planet that we have.

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Associated Press religion coverage receives support from the Lilly Endowment through The Conversation U.S. The AP is solely responsible for this content.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP)  Florida's high court ruled that a medical marijuana company isn't likely to win its challenge of state regulations on the industry and on Thursday struck down an appellate court decision that said the legislatively imposed business model was in conflict with the state constitution.

The ruling sends a lawsuit filed by FloriGrown back to the trial court. The lawsuit challenges laws put in place by the Republican-dominated Legislature that limit the number of medical marijuana licenses and requires dispensaries to grow and process their product rather than allowing separate growers and sellers.

The Supreme Court ruled that the constitutional amendment approved by voters in 2016 legalizing medical marijuana didn't specify restrictions the Legislature could place on medical marijuana treatment centers, which the court refers to as MMTCs.

Competent, substantial evidence does not support a finding that the statute has made medical marijuana unavailable, and the Amendment does not preclude a limit on the number of MMTCs that can be licensed, the court wrote in its opinion.

The court also said the amendment didn't address the business model requiring dispensaries to have control of the product from seed to sale.

Florida has more than 338 dispensary locations serving more than 561,000 patients, according to the state Department of Health's Office of Medical Marijuana Use.

A lawyer for FloriGrown didn't immediately return a call to her office for comment, but previously argued before the Supreme Court that Florida's medical marijuana laws restricted access for patients.

Theres something wrong with a system that keeps competition out, products scarce and prices outrageously high, she told the court last May.

Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried, the only statewide elected Democrat and who previously worked as a lobbyist for the medical marijuana industry, criticized the court's decision.

This ruling by our Republican-dominated Supreme Court further entrenches Floridas unfair, unconstitutional medical marijuana system put in place by our Republican-dominated Legislature," she said in a news release. This status quo helps absolutely no one except the 22 medical marijuana companies in Florida at the expense of patients.
National Police officers in Mijas on the Costa del Sol have arrested a 67-year-old British man who was wanted for child sexual abuse.

Thanks to the information received from international organisations and as a result of police cooperation between Spain and the United Kingdom, the possible presence of the British fugitive in Malaga province was established.

After investigations, the officers located the man and arrested him in Mijas, under the terms of an international arrest warrant.

The man was detained on 17 May and had been on the run since November 2019. He was wanted for abusing the daughters of his former partner when they were aged nine and 13 years old, some years ago in London.

The arrested man now faces a court appearance ahead of deportation proceedings.
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP)  A former NASA space shuttle commander indicted on reckless murder charges in the traffic deaths of two girls pleaded guilty to reduced charges Thursday nearly five years after the crash.

James Halsell Jr., 64, of Huntsville, pleaded guilty to two manslaughter and two assault charges during a hearing in which relatives of the victims wore shirts emblazoned with images of 11-year-old Niomi Deona James and 13-year-old Jayla Latrick Parler, killed when a car driven by Halsell slammed into one driven by their father in rural Tuscaloosa County.

While Halsell could have received 20 years for each manslaughter charge and 10 years for each assault charge, a judge agreed to probation and ordered him to spend four years in prison without early release followed by 10 years on supervised release. Halsell could be sent back to prison for 16 years if he violates probation after his release, said District Attorney Hays Webb, who opposed the lighter treatment.

The former astronaut, who went to work in the aerospace industry after leaving NASA in 2006, apologized in court and was taken into custody immediately the hearing. Outside court, the girls' mother, Latrice Parler, said relatives weren't pleased with the outcome.

It wasn't justice, said Parler, who told the judge about the last time she saw the children and recounted the anguish of losing them.

My daughters were amazing, beautiful, smart, strong little girls that could have been anything in this world if they had the opportunity to grow up, but that was taken from me and all of everyone else in this world, Parler said. Halsell's apology didn't seem sincere, she said.

Webb said there were no winners in the case.

It serves as a reminder that theres a very fine line. You have someone who has been to space five times and, because of a bad decision on his part, wound up killing two girls, Webb told The Associated Press in an interview afterward.

Authorities alleged Halsell was under the influence of drugs or alcohol in June 2016, when he drove a rental car into the rear end of one carrying the girls on a remote highway. Halsell had been driving to Louisiana to pick up his son and wound up on a road he mistook for Interstate 20/59, authorities said.

The girls' father, Pernell James, and a woman were injured but recovered. James said Halsell should have received the maximum punishment but was instead given time to get his family and affairs in order before pleading guilty.

We didnt get that, James said.

The case was delayed for reasons including the complexity of the evidence, the death of a defense lawyer's father, a possible plea that fell through in 2019 and the pandemic, said Webb, but Halsell's status as a former astronaut had zero influence in any fashion on the outcome.
SALT LAKE CITY (AP)  A former Utah state lawmaker launched a campaign Thursday to challenge Republican Sen. Mike Lee for his U.S. Senate seat next year.

Becky Edwards, who served in the Utah House of Representatives from 2009 to 2018, is the first candidate to formally announce she will challenge Lee in the 2022 election.
BANGKOK (AP)  Shareholders of the French energy company Total SA have voted to suspend payments of dividends to stakeholders in the joint venture company running a gas pipeline in Myanmar, the company said Wednesday.

Pressure has been growing on companies with investments or operations linked to the Myanmar military to suspend any financial support following a Feb. 1 coup. The Yadana pipeline is partly owned by Myanmar Oil & Gas Enterprises, a government-controlled entity.

Shareholders of the Moattama Gas Transportation Co., or MGTC, which operates the Yadana pipeline, made the decision at a meeting held on May 12, Total said in a statement.

It said the decision was in response to a proposal from Total and the U.S. energy company Chevron and was taken in light of the unstable context in Myanmar.

The decision was retroactively effective from April 1, it said. All cash distributions by MGTC to its shareholders (Total (31.24%), Chevron (28.26%), PTTEP (25.5%) and MOGE (15%)) are suspended," it said. PTTEP is a Thai company.

Total is still operating the pipeline, however, keeping the supply of gas steady so as to not disrupt the electricity supply that is vital to the local populations of Myanmar and Thailand, it said. The company has said it needs to protect its workers from repercussions of any moves to suspend its operations in the country.

The human rights group Justice for Myanmar noted that the suspension of dividends represents a fraction of the funds paid to the government from the pipeline, which includes millions in taxes, royalties and the government's share of the gas revenues.

Yadana is only one of Myanmar's three major offshore gas projects. The 400-kilometer (250-mile) Yadana pipeline, operated by Total Exploration & Production Myanmar, transports gas from the oil field offshore south of Myanmar to Thailand.

The company reiterated that it condemns the violence and human rights abuses occurring in Myanmar." It said it would comply with decisions of international and national authorities, including sanctions.

Myanmar's military has imposed an increasingly violent crackdown on mass protests against the coup and a broad civil disobedience movement. More than 825 people have been killed  well over two times the government tally  according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, a watchdog organization that monitors arrests and deaths.

The United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and other European governments have imposed sanctions in an effort to push the junta to release the hundreds of people it has arrested and restore the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. But such actions have had a limited effect as they targeted domestic military-controlled companies and the overseas travel and assets of members of the junta's leadership, the military and their family members.

Among other things, critics of the junta have urged many companies to withdraw or stop payments that might support Myanmars military, which has vast holdings that dominate its economy.

That includes banks that provide financing for companies working with or paying rent to military-affiliated companies and pension funds that are invested in dozens of companies.
NEW YORK (AP)  Prosecutors on Wednesday said they dont plan to use materials from recent raids on Rudy Giulianis home and office at an upcoming trial of two of his associates and another man on charges that they made illegal campaign contributions.

Federal prosecutors urged a judge to reject a request by lawyers in that case to force the government to disclose materials seized from Giuliani, ex-President Donald Trumps former personal lawyer, and others.

They said the warrants used in the raids did not authorize a search for evidence related to a case brought against Lev Parnas, Igor Fruman and Andrey Kukushkin. All three have pleaded not guilty and are free on bail.

The Government will not use any of the materials seized during the Giuliani and related searches in the 2019 case against the trio at their upcoming October trial, prosecutors wrote.

Parnas, Fruman and Kukushkin, a Ukrainian-born U.S. citizen, are charged in a scheme to make illegal campaign donations to local and federal politicians in New York, Nevada and other states to try to win support for a new recreational marijuana business.

In a letter dated last Thursday but released publicly on Tuesday, attorney Joseph Bondy, representing Parnas, said he was writing on behalf of all defense counsel to get help from the judge in pursuit of information about the execution of search warrants on Giuliani and another lawyer who has represented Trump, Victoria Toensing.

The letter also accidentally disclosed that prosecutors in 2019 sought the electronic messages of two ex-Ukrainian government officials and a Ukrainian businessman in its probe of Giuliani's dealings in that country.

Seized communications included an email account believed to belong to the former prosecutor general of Ukraine, Yuriy Lutsenko, a key figure in Giulianis efforts to press Ukraine for an investigation into then-presidential candidate Joe Biden and his son, Hunter, the letter said.

Prosecutors are examining Giulianis ties to Ukraine and whether he violated a federal law that governs lobbying on behalf of foreign countries or entities. No charges have been filed.

Giuliani has insisted that his activities in Ukraine were conducted on behalf of Trump, not any foreign entity or person.

Parnas and Fruman face charges that they made sizable contributions while trying to get Americans interested in investigating Bidens son in Ukraine. Parnas and Fruman worked with Giuliani to try to convince Ukraine to announce a probe of Biden. Giuliani, a Republican, has said he knew nothing about the donations.

Trumps efforts to press Ukraine for an investigation of the Bidens led the House to impeach Trump, though he was acquitted by the Senate.
BILLINGS, Mont. (AP)  Gov. Greg Gianforte is objecting to a U.S. government proposal to alter water releases from a huge reservoir in northeastern Montana to help an ancient and endangered fish species  the dinosaur-like pallid sturgeon.

With two-thirds of the state in drought, the Republican governor said the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers proposal risks damaging croplands and irrigation systems downstream of Fort Peck Dam on the Missouri River.

The plan to manipulate river levels could flood water users in late spring and deprive water users during the hot summer months when moisture is most critical, Gianforte told Army Corps officials in a Tuesday letter provided to The Associated Press.

The proposal would alter the Missouri's flows on a test basis between Fort Peck and North Dakotas Lake Sakakawea. More water would be released in the spring to attract fish to move upstream and spawn, with reduced releases later in the year after new sturgeon hatch.

The idea is to mimic natural conditions present before the earthen dam was completed in 1940. Sturgeon larvae would have a better chance to grow into free-swimming fish and avoid drifting down to Lake Sakakawea, where they currently settle to the bottom and die.

Army Corps officials said Thursday they were working on a detailed response to Gianforte's concerns, but had no plans to allow additional public comment as the governor had requested.

A final decision is expected in November, said Army Corps project manager Aaron Quinn. The agency last year delayed the process to do ground surveys on irrigation intakes that could be affected, Quinn said in a statement provided by officials.

Pallid sturgeon live in the Missouri and Mississippi River basins and can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) long. Theyve been around for tens of millions of years, but saw dramatic population declines after Fort Peck and other dams were built along the Missouri.

They were designated as endangered by extinction in 1990. The proposal to alter Fort Peck's releases is part of a broader effort by numerous state and federal agencies to revive the species.

The opposition from Gianforte, who took office in January, marks an abrupt shift from previous efforts by state officials to persuade water users to get behind the proposal, said Bruce Farling, a consultant for Trout Unlimited and former state director for the fish advocacy group.

Biologists from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks have broadly supported flow tests at Fort Peck, saying in 2019 comments to the Army Corps that more naturalized flows would benefit sturgeon and other animals along the river.

Local biologists with Fish, Wildlife and Parks have been working with irrigators for years to address their concerns," Farling said. They ought to feel pretty abandoned after all the work theyve put in.

Gianforte said the Army Corps lacks authority to conduct the test flows from Fort Peck Dam because it has no legal right to the Missouri River's water. He also faulted federal officials for not detailing how they would make up for any damages from the altered releases when they published an environmental study of the project in March.

The study found that under a worst-case scenario, higher flows in the spring could annually cost up to $7.5 million in lost farm income and $8 million in additional irrigation maintenance work across four counties, an area that includes the Fort Peck Indian Reservation.

Farling said the lowest water flow rate proposed by the Corps  8,000 cubic feet per second  was selected following negotiations with irrigators to make sure their water needs still would be met. He said worries about too much water were overstated because officials would shut it down if significant erosion started to occur.

This is what these fish need. Weve got to try this because they are disappearing, he added.

A 2009 study estimated only about 125 wild, adult pallid sturgeon remained along the Missouri and Yellowstone rivers between Fort Peck and Lake Sakakawea. Scientists say the fish would likely disappear from several stretches of the Missouri without artificial stocking efforts by wildlife agencies.

Along the Yellowstone River, the Army Corps is building a new diversion dam for irrigation water near Glendive that will include a side channel to allow sturgeon to swim around the dam. Environmental groups concerned the channel wouldn't work fought the project for years in federal court but lost.
GUATEMALA CITY (AP)  A judge in Guatemala issued arrest warrants Thursday for 10 people accused of abductions, torture, rape and killings in 1984.

The crimes came to light because of a police document covering that year dubbed the Military Diary.

Judge Miguel Angel Galvez confirmed the warrants, but did not identify who the suspects were. Prosecutors confirmed that all 10 had been arrested.

A source close to case who could not speak on the record said that at least one army general and two civilians were among those arrested.

The document that surfaced in 1999 describes the disappearances, abuse and deaths of more than 190 people during Guatemalas 1960-1996 civil war.

The typewritten, 74-page document includes annotations in codes like 300, which experts later discovered meant killed. There are 99 names in the document with that code.

One victim was described as a suspected leftist guerrilla, Prudencio de Jesus Carrera Camey. He was held for two weeks and killed. He was 15 years old.

Another entry recorded the detention of university professor Rudy Gustavo Figueroa Munoz. Abducted on Oct. 12, 1984, he was held for 52 days; his family didn't know where he was until his body turned up in December. The 300 annotation appeared next to his name.

His son Rudy Figueroa was 11 when his father disappeared: My younger brother was born while he was detained. He never met him.

Some detainees included in the report survived, but others were never heard from again.

More than 200,000 people died in the civil war, which ended with peace accords in 1996. But more than 45,000 people remain missing.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Vice President Kamala Harris on Thursday announced commitments from a dozen companies and organizations to invest in Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador as part of the Biden administrations efforts to address the root causes of migration from the region.

Participants in the new program include corporate giants Mastercard and Microsoft as well as Pro Mujer, a nonprofit that focuses on providing aid to low-income women in Latin America, along with the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and the World Economic Forum.

Harris issued what her office described as a call to action for businesses and nonprofits to make new commitments to promote economic opportunity in Central America. At an event announcing the initiative, Harris declared that private businesses have a very significant role to play in creating jobs and promoting economic opportunity and creating long-term development.

Leaders in the effort joined Harris virtually and in person Thursday for the event at her ceremonial office.

Luis von Ahn, CEO of the language-learning app Duolingo, said in a blog post Thursday that about 500,000 people in the Northern Triangle region already use Duolingos advertising-driven free app, mostly to learn English and improve their job prospects. The company also offers a $49 online English proficiency test accepted by many colleges in the U.S. and elsewhere, and as part of the White House call, he said its going to waive the cost of the test for many Central Americans.

Von Ahn said he grew up in Guatemala City in the 1980s and 1990s, a particularly unsafe time in my countrys history, but was lucky to be able to go to a good school and come to the U.S. for higher education.

The aim of the new effort is to focus aid on supporting vulnerable populations such as women and young people, and to invest in internet access, job-training programs and efforts to combat food shortages.

Its part of Harris role in dealing with the root causes of migration to the United States, a task she was given by President Joe Biden in March. Harris has had multiple calls with the presidents of Guatemala and Mexico and has held meetings with interest groups, policy experts and companies from the region.

She plans to visit Guatemala and Mexico in early June for her first trip abroad as vice president.

Harris has emphasized the need for economic development in the region and for public-private partnerships to address the challenges there. The administration is backing a proposal to provide $7 billion in assistance to Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras to help address the poverty and violence that leads people to flee to the U.S.

But the increase in migration at the border has become a significant political headache for Harris and Biden. Republicans accuse them of inaction on what they say is a crisis created in part by the presidents decision to halt construction of the U.S.-Mexico border wall and end some restrictions on asylum-seekers.

April was the second-busiest month on record for unaccompanied children encountered at the border, following Marchs all-time high, and the Border Patrols total encounters in April were up 3% from March, marking the highest level since April 2000. The April encounters are not directly comparable because most of those stopped were quickly expelled from the United States under federal pandemic-related powers that deny rights to seek asylum and because being expelled carries no legal penalty, many try to cross multiple times.

The increase has strained the capacity of the Border Patrol and the Department of Health and Human Services, which holds the minors in shelters until they can be placed with relatives or sponsors in the U.S. while authorities determine whether they have a legal right to remain in the country, either through asylum or for some other reason. It also has led to criticism from Republicans, who point to Harris and Biden's decision not to visit the border to survey the situation as evidence of their negligence.

Although migration will be central in Harris visit, cooperation on security issues will also be discussed. On Thursday, David Cohen, deputy director of the CIA, had scheduled meetings in Mexico City with officials from the Army, the Navy and the Mexican National Intelligence Center.

Mexicos Congress passed a law in December that restricts U.S. agents in Mexico and removed their diplomatic immunity. Experts say those restrictions could sour the security relationship with the United States, which provides much of Mexicos intelligence on drug trafficking and money laundering cases.

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Associated Press writers Maria Verza in Mexico City and Matt O'Brien in Providence, R.I., contributed to this report.
An estimated 300,000 people in Connecticut with misdemeanor and low-level felony records could ultimately have those convictions automatically erased under legislation that cleared the House of Representatives on Thursday.

The bill passed 91-56 and now heads to Democratic Ned Lamont's desk.

It followed an emotional day-long debate where opponents spoke about crime victims who are still suffering from what happened to them and won't have a say in whether a perpetrator's crime is expunged. Yet proponents recalled stories of friends, loved ones and associates who have struggled with the scarlet letter of having a criminal record.

We will help over 300,000 of our residents find more stable housing, obtain higher income and get better access to education and unlock opportunities which they previously did not have, said state Rep. Steve Stafstrom, D-Bridgeport, co-chair of the General Assembly's Judiciary Committee.

While he urged his colleagues to vote for the bill, Stafstrom acknowledged he wished it went further. The bill was pared back during negotiations and now no longer applies to some more serious felonies. But critics of the bill said it goes too far.

"There are many violent crimes that are being erased in this legislation, said Rep. Craig Fishbein, R-Wallingford, the committee's ranking Republican. He ticked off a list of crimes, ranging from interfering with a police officer to carjacking.

Republican lawmakers, joined by a handful of Democrats in the Democratic controlled chamber, attempted to strip some of the crimes from the bill where a persons conviction records would be erased. Each effort to amend the bill, however, narrowly failed.

Under the legislation, eligible misdemeanors and felonies would be automatically erased after someones sentence has been completed and if they have not been convicted of any additional crimes for seven to 10 years, depending on whether theyre trying to get a misdemeanor or felony expunged. Convictions that occurred on or after Jan. 1, 2000 would be affected. Anyone convicted of offenses prior to that date would have to petition to have their offenses erased.

Also, it would ban discrimination against people with erased criminal history in several areas, including employment, housing, credit, higher education, and insurance.

Too many of the people who have served time seemingly serve time for the rest of their lives, said Rep. Brandon McGee, D-Hartford, who spoke of his late father who had struggled with finding a job after being incarcerated multiple times for drug-related offenses because of the life-term sentence that he could not avoid.

Fishbein and other critics of the bill argued that people have the option to get their records expunged by going through the Connecticut Board of Pardons and Paroles, a process that would be more thorough and careful than the proposed automatic expungement. The process, they noted, also gives victims the opportunity to Stafstrom, however, said only about 3% of offenders go through the pardon process.

I urge my colleagues to think of those victims, said Rep. Greg Howard, R-Stonington, a police detective. And their silence on this issue is really loud because it just shows how beaten down they are and how much of an effect this has had on them that they cant even come forward anymore to combat this bill.

If Lamont signs the bill into law, the changes would take effect on Jan. 1, 2023. Lamont has voiced some concern about the legislation and what crimes would be expunged, but said Thursday he wanted to review the changes made to the bill, reiterating that he agrees with the bill's intent to give people another chance.

Meanwhile, the House also approved additional changes to police procedures, such as a ban on no-knock warrants, which allow officers to enter a home without announcing their presence. Other states, including Oregon and Florida, outlawed these warrants after the 2000 fatal shooting of Breonna Taylor in her Louisville, Kentucky, home during a botched police raid. Stafstrom noted they are not currently used in Connecticut.

The same legislation would also allow for an adverse inference to be made in a civil and criminal cases involving the police if an officer intentionally turns off their body camera.
NEW YORK (AP)  A public sculpture on Manhattan's west side will reopen to visitors this week but with new rules for access and a ticket fee, after three suicides at the site brought about a temporary closure.

The New York Times reported that the Vessel, the centerpiece at the Hudson Yards development, will reopen on Friday. It had been closed to the public since January.
Qatar Airways returns to Malaga airport on 2 July with direct flights to the Costa del Sol from the Qatari capital, Doha. The company has announced that "it plans to return to pre-pandemic levels with three destinations in Spain, adding Malaga to the Madrid and Barcelona routes".

The airline points to the coast as a key holiday destination and says, Malaga is a firm favourite with tourists from around the world and fully-vaccinated travelers will soon be able to visit it again while enjoying Qatar Airways' award-winning hospitality and service.

The Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Airways Group, Akbar Al Baker, announced that as the world begins to open up again, we are ready to take the lead in supporting the global economic and social recovery, as evidenced by our support for tourism.

He also said that Spain has always been a strategically important country for our airline, as reflected in the close association with Iberia and the constant expansion of our network in Spain.

The company will operate two flights a week from Doha to Malaga on Fridays and Sundays and will maintain the direct service until 12 September. The airline will be using an Airbus A350-900 with capacity for 36 people in business class and 247 seats in economy class. With this route, Qatar Airways will operate a total of 19 weekly flights to and from Spain, with daily flights to Barcelona and ten weekly flights to Madrid.

The airline began flying to Malaga airport in summer 2018 and the success of the route led to it increasing the capacity by 85 per cent in 2019 with five flights a week.

Given the uncertainties caused by the pandemic, the company reminds passengers who book with Qatar Airways can do so with complete confidence and that they can make changes to their flight reservation in the event that factors beyond their control interrupt their travel plans.
JERUSALEM (AP)  Israel's attorney general plans to indict a powerful ultra-Orthodox politician on charges of obstruction of justice in connection with the long-delayed extradition of a former teacher accused of sexually abusing her students in Australia.

Yaakov Litzman, a former health minister, is accused of pressuring ministry employees to alter psychiatric evaluations to make it appear Malka Leifer was unfit to stand trial. She was extradited in January after a six-year legal battle that strained relations between Israel and Australia.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  A federal judge overseeing a sweeping lawsuit about the homelessness crisis in Los Angeles on Wednesday chided the city and county of LA for their slow progress in providing shelter for thousands of unhoused residents who live near freeways.

During the cases first in-person court hearing in more than three months, Judge David O. Carter sought a status update on last year's agreement between the city and county to find housing for people who sleep near major thoroughfares, with priority for those over 65 or vulnerable to COVID-19.

Carter pointed out that the city managed to clear encampments from Los Angeles freeway overpasses in the runup to the Oscars, which were held downtown last month at Union Station.

I want to show you, apparently, what you're capable of doing, Carter said, displaying several photos of empty sidewalks previously lined with tents. We were certainly able to bat 100% for the Academy Awards, werent we?

Heidi Marston, executive director of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, said the mayor's office ordered the area around the train station cleared for security reasons ahead of the awards show. Mayor Eric Garcetti's office didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.

The lawsuit was filed in March 2020 by a group of business owners, residents and community leaders called the LA Alliance for Human Rights. It accuses the city and county of failing to comprehensively address the unfolding crisis that has seen encampments spread to all corners of greater Los Angeles. As of January 2020, there were more than 66,400 homeless people in Los Angeles County, with 41,000 within LA city limits.

Under an agreement reached last June, the county and city governments vowed to make 6,700 shelter beds available within 18 months. Carter read aloud from plaintiffs documents that showed while at least 1,300 beds were made available, only 396 were provided for people who reside near freeways or are 65 years or older.

Elizabeth Mitchell, lead attorney for the alliance, said the slow progress amounts to a material breach of the agreement. She also accused the city and county of counting some newly created beds twice.

Scott Marcus, lead attorney for the city, said Los Angeles is in the process of providing thousands of shelter beds and is regularly accounting for the progress in quarterly reports.

The city has been 100% transparent, Marcus said.

Last month, Carter ordered the city and county to find shelter for all unhoused residents of the Skid Row area of downtown by October and audit any spending related to the out-of-control crisis of people living on the streets. That order was delayed by a federal appeals court pending two hearings Carter scheduled for this week. On Thursday the judge is expected to question lawyers for the city and county about how they expect to pay for shelter and services.

Earlier this year, Carter called all parties to a hearing outside a Skid Row shelter and said that if politicians couldnt provide solutions, he would explore what powers the court has to order and oversee remedies.

Just hours after Wednesday's court hearing wrapped up, authorities reopened a popular Los Angeles park that was shut down for renovations in March, displacing about 200 homeless people who had been camping there.

The closure of Echo Park Lake was protested at the time and again Wednesday by homeless advocates who argued that safety complaints were overblown and the encampment offered a community setting for people without means who have nowhere else to live.

Signs around the property announce new rules, including no camping or storage. Park hours are listed as 5 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP)  A Kansas City, Kansas, man has been charged in the death of a neighbor who was killed inside his home when he was hit by a stray bullet, authorities announced Thursday.

James Edward Merrick Jr. was charged with first-degree murder in the March 31 killing of Mark Winner, 50, in Kansas City, Kansas.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP)  A Kentucky man has been arrested in Tennessee on federal charges of assaulting law enforcement officers during the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol riots.

Nicholas Brockhoff was arrested on Thursday by FBI agents from the Memphis office. Brockhoff was seen on video spraying police officers with a fire extinguisher, entering the Capitol through a broken window and wearing a stolen metropolitan officer's helmet, according to a criminal complaint in federal court.
A global auto parts supplier on Thursday announced a $51 million project adding 250 jobs at a rural Kentucky plant in an expansion tied to auto industry plans to ramp up electric vehicle production.

The stepped up output at the Firestone Industrial Products plant in Williamsburg will largely be geared toward producing air suspension systems for electric vehicles.

"Advanced air suspensions are increasingly a must-have technology on premium electric vehicles, and Firestone is committed to maintaining its leadership in this exciting and important market, said Emily Poladian, president of Firestone Industrial Products.

The company plans to break ground on the project soon, with completion expected by late next year.

Firestone opened its Whitley County operation in 1989. The southeastern Kentucky plant now employs more than 500 workers and produces about 4 million parts annually. The expansion will add 68,000 square feet of manufacturing space to accommodate new equipment and boost capacity.

This company has been an important corporate partner in our state for decades, and this investment by Firestone in support of the emerging electric vehicle market ensures that will continue to be the case for years to come," Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said.

Ford said this week that it expects 40% of its global sales to be battery-electric vehicles by 2030 as it adds billions to what its spending to develop them. General Motors says it hopes to stop selling combustion vehicles by 2035.

President Joe Bidens clean-energy agenda includes a sharp increase in the number of electric vehicles as part of his plan to address climate change.

The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority on Thursday preliminarily approved a performance-based agreement offering Firestone up to $6.5 million in tax incentives for meeting investment and long-running employment targets, Beshear's office said.

Those targets include paying an average hourly wage of $29 including benefits.

The company designs, tests and manufactures air suspensions at its Williamsburg operation. The companys air springs are assembled at its plant in Dyersburg, Tennessee.

Firestone Industrial Products is a subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas Inc.

Since 2020, auto-related companies in Kentucky have announced 36 new location and expansion projects, totaling more than $360 million in investments expected to create 1,500-plus full-time jobs, the governor's office said Thursday.

Firestones expansion was among four economic development projects announced by Beshear on Thursday. The projects represent combined investments of nearly $273 million and will bring a total of 505 jobs to Whitley, Shelby, Hardin and Fulton counties, the governor's office said.

Beshear says Kentucky is poised for a robust economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

We see more economic activity, we see more possibility moving forward than ever in my lifetime, the Democratic governor said recently.
FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP)  Kentucky reported 421 new coronavirus cases and four more virus-related deaths Thursday.

The new cases included 78 Kentuckians ages 18 or younger, Gov. Andy Beshear said on social media.

The governor said this week that the viruss incidence rates were much higher among younger Kentuckians, and that it was directly associated with whether youre vaccinated.

While more than 80% of people ages 65 and older in Kentucky have been vaccinated, inoculation rates have lagged among younger Kentuckians.

More than 2 million Kentucky residents have received at least their first shot of COVID-19 vaccine.

Kentucky counties with the highest vaccination rates are Woodford, Franklin, Fayette, Scott and Boone, according to state statistics. Counties with the lowest rates are Christian, Spencer, Ballard, McCreary and Lewis.

The statewide rate of positive cases was 2.51%, the governor said.

Kentuckys virus-related deaths since the pandemic began reached at least 6,748. Two of the deaths announced Thursday were discovered from the states audit of deaths from prior months.

The state's virus-related restrictions will be eased again starting Friday, when capacity will be allowed at 75% for businesses and events in Kentucky. Kentuckys coronavirus-related capacity restrictions will end on June 11.

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Find APs full coverage of the coronavirus pandemic at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic.
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP)  Louisiana lawmakers Thursday blocked an effort to offer a path to release for an estimated 1,500 prisoners convicted of felonies by juries that were not unanimous, a debate spurred by the U.S. Supreme Court's refusal to make its ban on such convictions retroactive.

Only five lawmakers on the House Judiciary Committee supported the proposal by Rep. Randal Gaines, a Democrat from LaPlace. Seven committee members voted against it. Gaines bill called for people serving a sentence that stems from a non-unanimous jury decision to be allowed to seek new trials.

Criminal justice advocates pushed the measure after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in mid-May that prisoners convicted by non-unanimous juries before the court banned the practice in 2020 didn't need to be retried. That left about 1,500 felons in Louisiana convicted by a 10- or 11-member majority of a jury in prison, many of them serving life sentences without the chance of parole.

Our system has buckled under decades of injustice. Louisiana lawmakers now have the obligation to repair the wounds inflicted by generations of Jim Crow, said Jamila Johnson, a lawyer for the New Orleans-based Promise of Justice Initiative.

Louisiana's nonunanimous jury requirement is a vestige of white supremacy that made it easier to convict Black people. Oregon was the only other state with a similar law. Voters in Louisiana approved a constitutional change that outlawed non-unanimous jury verdicts starting in 2019, after critics of the practice cited racial disparities in verdicts and pointed out the roots of the law.

But while the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 2020 that non-unanimous verdicts were unconstitutional, it decided earlier this month that the decision wouldn't be retroactive to cover those convicted felons who remain in prison under non-unanimous jury verdicts.

Several former inmates spoke in support of Gaines' legislation Thursday.

We can go forward and heal from a Jim Crow law that did all this harm, said Jermaine Hudson, who was released from prison in March after serving 22 years on a non-unanimous jury conviction, after the witness who accused Hudson recanted.

The district attorneys' association opposed the measure, but didn't speak at Thursday's hearing. Critics have raised concerns about the clogging up the court system with new trials and about prosecutors having difficulty being able to retry cases for serious crimes that happened years ago.

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The bill is filed as House Bill 346.

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Follow Melinda Deslatte on Twitter at http://twitter.com/melindadeslatte.
EUGENE, Ore. (AP)  A judge has sentenced a Eugene man found guilty of attempting to kill a police officer to nine years in prison.

Jordan Wilson, 56, was sentenced Wednesday, KEZI-TV reported. Wilson also will spend three years on post-prison supervision after he completes his prison term. Lane County Circuit Court Judge Charles Zennache ordered him to forfeit the gun that was involved in the shooting.
Spain's Minister of Health Carolina Darias has defended the decision that allows the arrival of travellers from the United Kingdom to Spain without health controls or restrictions.

Last Friday, Spains PM Pedro Sanchez announced this measure at the Fitur international tourism fair, which came into effect this Monday, 24 May. The move is in stark contrast to the measures that some European partners are taking to impose quarantines due to the fear of the spread of the Indian coronavirus variant.

"The conditions are in place to open up tourism, especially from the UK, which is one of the most important countries for tourists in Spain," said Darias.

The head of the Ministry of Health made the statement this Wednesday, 26 May, after a meeting of Interterritorial Council of the National Health System with the regions, where she stressed that the UK has a low cumulative 14-day incidence rate and "the conditions are in place to open tourism."
ELKO, Nev. (AP)  A nearly decade-long effort has resulted in a Veterans Administration commitment to build a new National Veterans Cemetery in northeast Nevada, U.S. Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto said Thursday.

Gil Hernandez, commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2350 in Elko and a member of the Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery advisory committee, credited the Democratic senator in a statement with securing the VA pledge for the site in Elko.
ATLANTA (AP)  Citing newly filed motions, a judge has canceled a meeting to discuss logistical plans for a review of absentee ballots from Georgia's most populous county.

Henry County Chief Judge Brian Amero last week agreed to unseal 147,000 mail ballots from Fulton County after a group of voters sued for access to look for evidence of fraud in last year's general election. He had scheduled a meeting Friday to discuss the specifics of the scanning and visual inspection of the ballots.

But in motions filed Wednesday and Thursday, Fulton County, the county board of elections and the county court clerk all asked the judge to dismiss the lawsuit. In an email sent to the parties Thursday, the judge said those motions need to be dealt with before logistics can be discussed.

Amero wrote in the email that he hopes to hold a hearing on the motions June 21 and plans to issue an order next week setting the hearing date.

The ballot review effort in Georgia is among several around the country pushed by Trump supporters and others who claim the 2020 election was marred by fraud. State and federal authorities have repeatedly said there was no evidence of widespread fraud in the election.

Georgia election results were certified months ago, and a new review cannot change the results. After the initial tally and before certification, the state did a full hand recount of the presidential race to satisfy a new audit requirement in state law. Another recount, in which the ballots were run through scanners to be tallied again, was done at the request of former Republican President Donald Trumps campaign after he lost the state by a narrow margin to Democrat Joe Biden.

Garland Favorito, who is known for espousing numerous conspiracy theories, is leading the review effort in Georgia. He says he's seeking the truth.

If all these votes are correct and there are no counterfeit ballots, then we can go home and rest assured that the election was conducted correctly, he said. If there are a lot of counterfeit ballots, then we need to figure out how to prevent that in the future.

Fulton County Commission Chairman Robb Pitts has repeatedly slammed the push for a review.

It is outrageous that Fulton County continues to be a target of those who cannot accept the results from last years election, he said last week after Amero agreed to unseal the ballots. The votes have been counted multiple times, including a hand recount, and no evidence of fraud has been found.
LANSING, Mich. (AP)  Legislation to close a gap in Michigan marijuana law that has allowed some untested products similar to marijuana to be sold passed Thursday in the state House.

The legislation would include all THC products in the legal definition of marijuana, therefore subjecting all such products to the same level of testing, regulation and restrictions. THC is the main compound in cannabis and marijuana products that gets users high.

The scientific name for THC is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, so when Michigan looked to include THC in its laws it explicitly said delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol."

Due to the current narrow definition of marijuana in state law, gas stations and smoke shops in Michigan have been able to sell other hemp-derived products, which have similar intoxicating effects.

That allowed untested and unregulated THC products to be purchased by people who shouldn't, including minors, bill sponsor Rep. Yousef Rabhi said during a recent House Regulatory Reform Committee meeting.

The state puts growers and processors through rigorous testing processes, Steve Linder, executive director of the Michigan Cannabis Manufacturers Association, said at the meeting. Linder said companies in the association are happy to comply with the process because they all create medicinal products.

Any product considered medicine should adhere to the same health and safety standards as medicines dispensed in pharmacies, Linder said.

Michigan legalized medical marijuana in 2008 and recreational marijuana in 2018.

The bills received bipartisan approval. They now go to the state Senate and then to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for consideration.

___

Anna Liz Nichols is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues
Kevin Strickland was in his cell at the Western Missouri Correctional Center in Cameron when his attorneys called.

Tricia Rojo Bushnell, executive director of the Midwest Innocence Project, broke news to him that he said is still surreal: prosecutors determined he is innocent in the 1978 triple murder for which he has been imprisoned for more than two-thirds of his life. They would call for him to be released immediately.

Stricklands eyes widened, and he was flooded with every emotion possible, he recalled Tuesday in his first interview since that day.

Strickland has proclaimed his innocence for more than four decades. Prosecutors began reviewing his conviction in November after speaking with his lawyers and reviewing a Kansas City Star investigation into his innocence claim. Now, Jackson County prosecutors, Kansas Citys mayor and others agreed he deserved to be exonerated, the Star reported.

Joy, anger, fear, disappointment, Strickland recalled feeling. Just disbelief.  Its just finally happening; someones finally hearing me.

On May 10, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker spoke with Strickland by phone before announcing that her office concluded he had been wrongly convicted in the April 25, 1978, killings at 6934 S. Benton Ave. in Kansas City.

She apologized to Strickland. She was emotional and chose her words carefully, Strickland remembered. He accepted Bakers apology, saying she had nothing to do with it.

Strickland, who turns 62 next month, is still in disbelief because, despite the outpouring of public support, he remains incarcerated in Missouri, where he has been imprisoned since he was 19.

Theres no giving those 43 years back to me, he said. I lost my life.

His fate is now in the hands of the Missouri Supreme Court, which could resolve the question of whether innocence alone is enough in the state to free a prisoner not sentenced to death. His lawyers also argued his trial was marred by constitutional violations.

Strickland remains hopeful. Its what has gotten him through the last 43 years, he said.

If he is exonerated and freed, he plans to go straight to his younger brothers house, where his mother is in hospice care. She has dementia, and Strickland does not know if she will even recognize him. But every minute could be her last.

Were going to speed down the highway, Strickland told The Star. I got to get there. I got to get there.

On the day 18-year-old Strickland was arrested, his girlfriend dropped their 7-week-old daughter off at his familys home on Jackson Avenue. It was going to be his first time watching her.

Strickland, who dropped out of Southeast High School, had recently applied to join the military. He figured he could see the world and marry his girlfriend that way.

But before his girlfriend left, a relative glanced outside and hollered: Its the police. Two officers, emerging from an unmarked squad car, came to the door. They were there to arrest Strickland for a shooting that left three people dead the night before.

Perplexed, Strickland was handcuffed and taken downtown.

The case against Strickland was thin from its inception and relied almost entirely on the testimony of a traumatized woman who was shot during the murders, prosecutors now say.

Stricklands first trial in 1979 ended in a hung jury of 11 to one, with the only Black juror holding out for acquittal. He was convicted two months later by an all-white jury.

Prosecutors waived the death penalty, which Strickland believes shows they were not convinced of his guilt at the time.

You dont prosecute a triple murderer for a week  a young kid thats an animal, killing people repeatedly, one after the other, Strickland argued, describing the way he said he was portrayed at trial. Why would you take it off the table?

Strickland was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for 50 years. He was sent to the Missouri State Penitentiary in Jefferson City. Standing 5-foot-3 and weighing 140 pounds, he had to fend for himself.

They threw me in a maximum security prison with murderers, rapists, child molesters, arsonists, he said.

Strickland equated the conditions at the penitentiary to the 1981 movie Escape from New York, in which Manhattan was turned into a prison. If there was a body on the ground, Strickland said, prisoners would simply step over it.

In the decades that followed, two men who pleaded guilty in 1978 murders swore Strickland was not with them and two other accomplices during the shooting. The lone eyewitness also recanted and wanted Strickland released.

A third suspect, who was never charged, said in 2019 that he knew there couldnt be a more innocent person than Strickland, according to a Midwest Innocence Project investigator.

Over the years, Strickland spent $1,000 on stamps to write dozens of law firms, some in other parts of the world, asking for help. One non-profit declined to represent him because he was picked up by police for taking a car on a joyride when he was a juvenile.

Strickland also met numerous innocent men who were later exonerated.

In the early 1980s, he was celled with Joseph Amrine, who was wrongly convicted of killing a fellow prisoner in Jefferson City. Amrine spent 17 years on death row before he was freed.

Hed later sit about 25 feet from the cell of Ricky Kidd, who spent 23 years in prison for a 1996 double murder in Kansas City that he did not commit. He was exonerated in 2019.

Strickland also used to drink coffee and play cards with Reginald Griffin, who was exonerated in 2013 after he was sentenced to die in a 1983 murder.

Its impossible to know how many innocent people sit in Missouris prisons, but some attorneys believe that figure is in the hundreds.

From prison, Strickland watched major national events unfold: the Sept. 11 attacks; the murder trial of O. J. Simpson. He thinks The Juice was guilty.

Prison staff have treated Strickland better since prosecutors called for his release. Someone sent him a prepaid envelope with a return address from California. Normally, prisoners are not allowed such mail, he said, but staff gave it to him anyway.

Strickland is disappointed it took so long for his professed innocence to be recognized. One of the men who pleaded guilty, Vincent Bell, repeatedly proclaimed Stricklands innocence in court in 1979  just four months after Strickland was convicted.

Its frustrating how slow the system works, Strickland said, even when prosecutors know a conviction isnt right.

Since he was sentenced, Strickland has languished in prisons for nearly 41 years and 11 months  15,306 days.

If he were exonerated today, he will have endured the seventh longest wrongful imprisonment acknowledged in U.S. history.

The countrys longest serving exoneree, Richard Phillips, was incarcerated for 45 years and 2 months for a Detroit murder. He was exonerated in 2018.

Michigan awarded Phillips more than $1.56 million in compensation.

Recently, Kansas paid Lamonte McIntyre $1.55 million for serving 23 years for two murders he did not commit in Kansas City, Kansas.

If freed, Strickland will not receive a dime from Missouri.

The states compensation law is very limited, according to legal experts. It only allows payments to innocent people exonerated through DNA evidence, which would not be the case for Strickland.

Sean OBrien, a University of Missouri-Kansas City law professor, said even some prisoners who have proven their innocence using DNA have not qualified for compensation in Missouri.

Most exonerations are not won with DNA evidence. Of the 2,788 since 1989 across the country, DNA was central to proving innocence in 375 cases, according to the National Registry of Exonerations.

The only way Strickland could receive compensation is if lawmakers pass special legislation dictating they pay him a certain amount, or if he can find someone to sue who violated his civil rights and is not immune from civil liability, OBrien said.

Both of those are difficult and at his age, hed be lucky to survive to see a judgment, frankly, he said earlier this month.

Rojo Bushnell said the Midwest Innocence Project believes every wrongly convicted person should be compensated. While money will do nothing to regain Stricklands decades behind bars, it would be a good faith effort to give him a new start at life, she said.

Strickland will also not be entitled to Social Security benefits, she noted.

They will have taken away decades of his life and given him nothing back, Rojo Bushnell said.

Strickland called on legislators to change Missouris compensation law. He would re-enter the outside world without healthcare or any real job skills, he said.

I mean, how am I going to make it out there? he asked.

But no money will make him a teenager again, he added.

Strickland has had two heart attacks in prison. He uses a wheelchair because he cant stand for longer than three minutes at a time.

On a recent trip to Truman Medical Center to have his back evaluated, he noted that East 23rd and Harrison streets, where his family once lived, no longer exists.

Kansas City has changed so much in the last 40 years that Strickland said he would not be able to find his way from parts of the city to downtown.

Through media reports he has seen new highways constructed. Four of Kansas Citys tallest buildings werent yet built when Strickland was arrested. In that time, the city has had seven mayors.

Stricklands father, who served in the Korean War, was disappointed when his son was arrested. The two were close, but he didnt show at his trials.

Now that Strickland might be vindicated, he said, his father is not alive to see it. Its one of the things that chokes Strickland up. He was not allowed to attend his fathers funeral.

He dont get to see none of this, Strickland said. Hell never know.

If he is exonerated, Strickland will stay with one of his brothers before he finds a place to live. He has been supervised for most of his life. He needs some time alone.

Strickland has thought about his first day out of prison. Hed like to get a bite of fried fish, cornbread, over-easy eggs and maybe a good salad.

He does not intend to live in Missouri. He has never seen the ocean and wants to go somewhere warm with a coastline. Maybe California or Florida, he said, away from the cold.

I want to feel the power of the ocean, Strickland said. Yeah, I want to do that.
HELENA, Mont. (AP)  Authorities in Montana have trapped and killed a grizzly bear after it was accused of killing yearlings on a ranch near Avon.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks grizzly specialist Rory Trimbo said ranchers riding horseback were checking cattle on Saturday when they came across the bear on a horse carcass, the Independent Record reported.
SALE, Morocco (AP)  About 300 inmates in a prison near the Moroccan capital have been vaccinated against COVID-19, among the latest prisoners to benefit from a vaccination campaign that authorities say reflects a commitment to protect a population considered especially vulnerable.

Inmates age 45 and older lined up Wednesday for AstraZeneca vaccine shots at Al Arjat 1 prison in Sale, where both men and women are incarcerated.

From the start of the pandemic we weren't afraid, but thanks to this vaccination we will be protected, an inmate named Habiba said after her jab. Like other inmates, she identified herself only by her first name.

As of Thursday, about 4,400 of the approximately 11,500 inmates eligible had been vaccinated since a national campaign was launched at the beginning of the year, according to prison authorities. The entire prison administration staff also has been inoculated.

According to the General Delegation for Prison Administration, known as the DGAPR, 11 inmates have died from COVID-19 in Morocco and 626 others were infected. An outbreak n cases last year prompted authorities to start a prison prevention program, and vaccinating workers and inmates is a key part of it.

Morocco has about 85,000 inmates in 77 prisons, and their chronic overcrowding became a critical issue during the coronavirus pandemic since the virus spreads more easily in confined spaces with poor ventilation where maintaining physical distance is not possible.

Our efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19 in the prisons started from the first case in April 2020, said Taoufiq Abtal, the head of the health division of the North African nation's prison administration. Since that date, (we) took a series of preventive measures to fight the pandemics spread.

King Mohammed VI ordered more than 5,600 imates released in April 2020 to keep the virus from rampaging through Morocco's packed prisons. Restructuring prison visits, health monitoring of inmate populations most susceptible to severe COVID-19 and medical examinations were other steps taken to keep COVID-19 outside prison walls.

Morocco has been at the forefront of vaccination campaigns among African nations. The king kicked the rollout off in late January by getting his own shot in the arm.

Personally, I was not expecting this," Said, an inmate at Al Arjat 1, said while awaiting his turn Wednesday. "I thank everyone involved.

More than 8 million Moroccans had received a first jab of a vaccine while nearly 5 million had been fully vaccinated as of Wednesday night. Besides the AstraZeneca vaccine, Morocco has received supplies of the Sinopharm vaccine made in China and also plans to use the Sputnik V vaccine from Russia.

Since the start of the pandemic, the country had reported nearly 517,810 confirmed cases and more than 9,130 deaths as of Wednesday.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP)  U.S. nuclear regulators are considering a licensing change proposed by a uranium company that would clear the way for 1 million cubic yards (765,000 cubic meters) of waste to be transferred from a mining area in western New Mexico to a mill site a short distance away as part of a cleanup effort.

But indigenous activists and nuclear watchdogs say the proposal doesnt go far enough in protecting the area and surrounding Navajo communities from more contamination.

The deadline to comment on a draft environmental review of the proposal was Thursday.

Federal environmental regulators have been working with the Navajo Nation for several years to address contaminated sites near the community of Church Rock. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission said it also has coordinated with the tribe as it reviewed the potential environmental effects that would result from amending United Nuclear Corp.'s license for the mill site.

The mine waste that would be moved to the mill site is made up of soil, vegetation, rock and other debris of varying levels of radioactivity. Officials say the higher-level waste would be disposed of elsewhere.

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission's review found that there would be only small environmental effects to surface and groundwater supplies, soil and air quality. However, the commission noted high impacts when it comes to environmental justice given that residents in the surrounding area and the Navajo Nation more broadly have been grappling with the legacy of uranium mining and contamination for decades.

Federal officials during previous public meetings and in documents have highlighted that past, namely what was the largest release of radioactive material in U.S. history.

United Nuclear Corp. operated the Church Rock uranium milling facility from 1977 to 1982. In 1979, the tailings disposal pond breached its dam, sending more than 93 million gallons (350 million liters) of radioactive and acidic slurry into an arroyo and other drainages.

Three times the radiation released at the Three Mile Island accident in Pennsylvania, the contamination from the breach in New Mexico affected water supplies, livestock and downstream communities.

Activists have voiced concerns about the plan to consolidate the waste, saying the cheaper option wouldn't address the ongoing problems. They also are worried about the federal government removing a potential threat waste designation from the environmental impact statement.

The Red Water Pond Road Community Association, which is made up of residents who live near the site, has been pushing for the waste to be removed from the area altogether. Top Navajo government officials have made the same request, saying the waste remains a threat to human health and the environment.

In a recent letter to federal officials, Navajo President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer reiterated that those who are most affected by the waste are minority and low-income residents, and they are owed the best solution possible." The Navajo leaders said that would be moving the waste to an appropriate repository away from the Navajo Nation.

Simply transporting it to a facility less than one mile away from the reservation boundary, while it technically is removing it from the Navajo Nation, in reality is just taking it from one side of the road to the other, they wrote.

They went on to say that about 30 million tons of uranium were extracted from Navajo lands over decades to support the U.S. government's security mission.

It would seem appropriate for the United States to support the complete removal of the uranium waste that was improperly left behind from that effort, they wrote. If additional funding is needed to achieve that goal, such appropriations should be considered as well.
RIO DE JANEIRO (AP)  Hundreds of wildcat miners attacked police who were trying to halt illegal mining in the Brazilian Amazon region and then raided an Indigenous village, setting houses on fire, federal prosecutors in the northern state of Para reported.

The clashes came days after a Supreme Court justice ordered the government to protect Indigenous populations threatened in recent weeks by illegal miners who appear to have been emboldened by support for their industry from President Jair Bolsonaro.

The state prosecutor's office said miners tried to block a federal police operation by closing off entries to the municipality of Jacareacanga on Wednesday and trying to raid a police base where heavy equipment for the operation was kept.

Hours later, miners raided a village of the Munduruku people and set several houses on fire, including one that belonged to a prominent mining critic and indigenous activist, Maria Leusa Munduruku.

The attack followed clashes farther north in Roraima state, where miners in motorboats have repeatedly attacked and threatened a riverside Yanomami settlement known as Palimiu. There, miners also clashed with federal officials investigating the incidents.

Junior Hekurari Yanomami, president of a Yanomami association, told The Associated Press that two of the group's children drowned while fleeing during a particularly violent confrontation May 10 that also resulted in three miners being killed.

Federal prosecutors in Roraima have not been able to confirm any of the deaths, but said a police investigation was underway.

Clashes around the Palimiu community have intensified since April 24, when Yanomami men took fuel and some equipment from wildcat miners they accused of encroaching on their land, Hekurari and state prosecutors said.

Hekurari said miners have been driving their motorboats past the village almost daily, shouting threats and sometimes firing their guns.

People arent sleeping properly. They are very tired, Hekurari said in a Zoom call from Palimiu. He said Yanomami men keep watch each night.

He alleged that miners have killed several people and raped women and girls  allegations not confirmed by federal prosecutors in the state, who said they were investigating.

Bolsonaro on Thursday was less than 100 kilometers (60 miles) from the vast Yanomami reserve to inaugurate a small wooden bridge along a federal highway that runs near a rich deposit of the mineral niobium that he has often touted as a potential economic boon for Brazil.

The conservative president has been outspoken about his desire to legalize mining in Indigenous territories  something not allowed under Brazil's constitution  and to promote development in the Amazon.

It isn't fair to want to criminalize the prospector in Brazil," Bolsonaro told supporters outside the presidential palace May 14, according to the newspaper Estado de S. Paulo. "People wearing suits and ties give their guesses about everything that's happening in rural areas.

Such comments have encouraged miners, say federal prosecutors, environmental and Indigenous rights activists.

There is a feeling of impunity in the country, that those who invade wont be penalized," said Juliana Batista, a lawyer who works at the Socio-Environmental Institute, an advocacy group.

The institute says some 20,000 illegal miners are suspected of working within the Yanomami Indigenous Territory, which is Brazils largest Indigenous reserve and roughly the size of Portugal. Some 27,000 Indigenous people live on that land.

Supreme Court Justice Luis Roberto Barroso this week ordered the federal government to immediately adopt all necessary measures to protect the life, health and safety of indigenous populations in Yanomami and Munduruku territory. He also accused the government for recalcitrance and lack of transparency in ensuring the health and safety of Indigenous groups.

Bolsonaro has repeatedly argued that Indigenous groups control too much territory, given their sparse population. He also says they should be integrated into broader society  a stance with which many communities disagree.

A March report published by two Indigenous associations, which used satellite imagery and flyovers, complained that the unusual proximity of some mining sites to Yanomami communities tends to fuel conflict.

Alisson Marugal, a prosecutor in Roraima state who has investigated clashes on Yanomami land, said from his office in the state capital of Boa Vista that illegal mining has brought prostitution, disease, drug and alcohol abuse and the loss of traditional ways of life.

"If nothing is done, conflicts with miners could lead to massacres, he said.
LINCOLN, Neb. (AP)  The University of Nebraska has netted $400 million in financing through the sale of municipal bonds to be used for a growing list of renovations and replacement projects, ranging from new building complexes to new roofs, windows and HVAC systems.

The sale took place Wednesday, and money garnered will go toward an $800 million backlog of projects at campuses in Lincoln, Omaha and Kearney, as well as the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis, the Lincoln Journal Star reported.
QUETTA, Pakistan (AP)  Pakistani security forces on Thursday shot and killed four members of the Pakistani Taliban in a shootout in the countrys southwest, a spokesman for the counter-terrorism department said.

The fighting took place on the outskirts of Quetta, the provincial capita of Baluchistan, according to the provincial counter-terrorism department. The militants were from the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, as the Pakistani Taliban are known. They are a separate group from the Afghan Taliban.
Spain's Ministry of Health has reached an agreement this Wednesday, 26 May, that will enable the regions to issue the EU Covid health passport that will come into effect from 1 July.

According to the agreement reached during a meeting of the Interterritorial Council of the National Health System, although the regions will be in charge, in most cases, of issuing the EUs Digital Green Certificate, the central government will also be able to generate this document in certain instances.

The agreement also included the commitment of the Ministry of Health to provide all "technical means" to the regions so that they can issue the document that will allow mobility throughout Europe.

During the month of June the process and tools will be installed to generate this certificate, which will preferably be in an electronic format although it may also be issued on paper.

The document will include, in addition to the holder's name and date of birth, the date of issue of the certificate and information on Covid-19 vaccinations, coronavirus tests or recovery from the disease.
OKLAHOMA CITY (AP)  An Oklahoma death row inmate awaiting execution for a 2004 slaying in Oklahoma City died of COVID-19, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner said Thursday.

Nicholas Davis, 46, died on April 7 at a prison hospital in Lindsay after contracting the coronavirus, according to a medical examiner's report. Davis had several underlying health conditions, including inflammation of the lungs, an autoimmune disease and heart disease, according to the report.
OKLAHOMA CITY (AP)  The Oklahoma Legislature wrapped up the 2021 regular legislative session on Thursday, one day before a constitutionally mandated deadline.

The House and Senate both adjourned before noon after each chamber passed a bill making some minor modifications to the states medical marijuana laws. The House on Thursday also gave final approval to a measure that allows the governor to fill a U.S. Senate vacancy should one occur. Both of those bills now head to the governors desk.
OGDEN, Utah (AP)  An armed school employee in Utah held off an attempted kidnapping suspect at gunpoint until officers arrived, police said.

The incident occurred Tuesday when a man grabbed an 11-year-old girl at a school playground in Ogden. Police say he tried to pull her away until the school employee demanded he leave.
SPRINGFIELD, Va. (AP)  Fairfax County Police are asking people to help them find a car they believe is key in the investigation of the fatal shooting of a husband and wife on Wednesday morning.

Fairfax County police identified the victims as Edward McDaniel Jr., 55, and Brenda McDaniel, 63, both of Springfield. Both were military doctors, and Edward McDaniel was still active with the Army as a colonel.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP)  Police in Kansas City are investigating two separate homicides that occurred Thursday morning.

The first occurred just before 1 a.m. at an apartment complex just north of Riss Lake, police said. Officers were called to the apartment building for a report of gunshots and found a woman with gunshot wounds in a common area of the building, police said in a news release. The woman was declared dead at the scene.

The second homicide was reported around 7 a.m. just west of U.S. 71 in a residential area near the Swope Park Campus, police said. Officers called to that scene found a man inside a home who appeared to have been shot. Police said he died at the scene.

Police did not immediately release the names of those killed and had not announced any arrests by late morning Thursday.
MILTON, W.Va. (AP)  A man has been charged with second-degree murder in a fatal shooting at a West Virginia gas station, police said.

News outlets report that police detained Carl Rose Jr., 39, and took a gun from him Wednesday evening at a GoMart in Milton.
MEXICO CITY (AP)  A Romanian man accused of running a massive credit card skimming operation in the Mexican resort of Cancun was arrested Thursday, ending a bizarre story of violence, theft and politics.

Mexican prosecutors said Florian Tudor, often know by his nickname The Shark, was arrested on an extradition request from Romania for attempted murder, organized crime and extortion.

When federal agents went to take Tudor into custody, another federal agent tried to prevent the arrest and Tudor's lawyer tried to punch the officers, the prosecutors said. Both the lawyer and the rogue agent were subdued and taken into custody along with the Romanian.

Tudor has maintained his innocence, but officials say hundreds, and perhaps thousands of tourists were allegedly scammed at ATM machines run by his group in Cancun.

Tudor claimed he was a legitimate businessman facing political persecution and was even granted a meeting on March 3 with Mexico's top police official, Public Safety Secretary Rosa Icela Rodriguez.

Rodriguez said she had been ordered by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador to meet with Tudor and hear him out. All we did was grant him a meeting to hear what he wanted to say ... we treated him like any other citizen," Rodriguez said later.

But the meeting surprised many because it came one month after Mexico's anti-money laundering agency froze 79 bank accounts connected to the gang because they formed part of a criminal enterprise to clone credit cards in the tourist zone of Cancun.

The Financial Intelligence Unit said it acted as part of a joint investigation with the FBI; the unit confirmed the ring was run by Romanians and that as much as $25 million in suspicious transfers had been detected.

The unit said the gang placed ATMs with skimmers to read credit card data inside Cancun hotels, and said the scam had expanded to other resorts like Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos.

Tudor became known for speaking from inside a baronial residence in Cancun and issuing lengthy press releases claiming he was a victim of human rights violations and political persecution.

In one 12-page document, Tudor claimed that the former police chief of Quintana Roo  the state where Cancun is located  and an adviser to the state governor are behind this campaign to invent the false idea of a 'Romanian mafia,' and have paid millions to news media to slander me."

He claimed it was all part of a plot to hurt Lopez Obrador's Morena party in this year's mid-term elections.

Tudor also claimed federal prosecutors had stolen from him safes, computers, cash, credit cards, jewels, fine watches, works of art, TVs, pure bred dogs and horses, and construction equipment.

In 2018, another Romanian, a member of the gang who had a falling out with Tudor, was found dead in a vehicle near Tudor's house. There were conflicting versions about the circumstances of the killing; local media quoted another Tudor associate as claiming he was attacked and killed the man in self-defense.
LOS ANGELES  The Church of Scientology works hard to keep its inner workings out of the public eye.

It has hired private detectives to keep tabs on straying members, and experts say its lawyers vigorously defend against legal incursions, arguing to judges that Scientology's beliefs are not courtroom fodder.

But at a hearing last week in the rape case against actor Danny Masterson, church officials were unable to stop their practices from being debated in open court.

Three women took the stand to recount violent sexual assaults allegedly committed by the celebrity Scientologist, and each told similar stories of how church officials tried to stop them from reporting Masterson to police.

One woman testified that a church official instructed her to write a statement showing she would "take responsibility" for a 2001 assault, in which she alleges Masterson raped her while she was unconscious.

Another woman who was born into Scientology and planned to report Masterson to police in 2004, a year after she said he raped her at his Hollywood mansion, recounted how a Scientology attorney showed up at her family's home. The lawyer, according to the woman, warned that she would be expelled from the church if she went to authorities.

"We're going to work out how you can not lose your daughter," the attorney told the woman's father, according to her testimony.

The focus on Scientology during the preliminary hearing, which stretched over four days and included lengthy discussions of internal church texts and doctrine, wasn't lost on Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Charlaine Olmedo.

In ruling that there was sufficient evidence against Masterson to allow the case to proceed toward trial, Olmedo concluded Scientology has "an expressly written doctrine" that "not only discourages, but prohibits" its members from reporting one another to law enforcement. The policy explained why several of the women did not report Masterson's alleged crimes to the police for more than a decade, the judge found.

It was a type of public dissection that is unusual for the insular, enigmatic institution. The church, which counts a number of high-profile actors among its parishioners and operates a "Celebrity Centre" in the heart of Hollywood, has long been accused of going to extraordinary lengths to keep criminal allegations and other claims of wrongdoing in-house, experts said.

"The activities of Scientology have been so much a part of the evidence that's being put forth as to why these women were not immediately going to law enforcement ... that it's sort of brought the dirty laundry out into public view, which is exactly what Scientology does not want to have happen," said Mike Rinder, the church's former top spokesman, who left the faith in 2007.

In statements to The Times, the church denied it has a policy that dissuades members from reporting crimes, despite repeated references to Scientology texts during the hearing that appeared to include the directive. Karin Pouw, the church's top spokeswoman, said Olmedo's comments were "flat-out wrong" and dismissed the allegations against Masterson as "nothing more than a money shakedown" by women who are also engaged in a civil suit against him.

The women, Pouw claimed without evidence, are parroting comments made by Leah Remini, an actress who became an outspoken critic of Scientology after breaking with it in 2015. Rinder is a co-executive producer with Remini of a Netflix series about Scientology.

"Church policy explicitly demands Scientologists abide by all laws of the land, including the reporting of crimes. This is blatantly clear in the documents we understand were put before the Court  and many others," Pouw wrote, repeatedly noting the church is not a party in the criminal case. "The Court either did not read them in full or ignored them. It should have done neither. Interpretation of Church doctrine by the courts is prohibited and the ruling is evidence of why."

The case against Masterson, who starred in the 2000s sitcom "That 70's Show," is a relatively rare example of a Scientologist facing criminal charges based on accusations from other church members, Rinder said.

The church's doctrine generally dismisses government institutions like courts as invalid and directs members to deal with complaints internally, Rinder said. Knowing that contacting law enforcement can lead to excommunication and being cut off from family and friends who remain in the church, members often remain silent, according to Rinder and testimony delivered in court last week.

The case against Masterson, Rinder added, is also unusual for the outsize role the inner workings and rules of Scientology played at the preliminary hearing  a likely preview of what is to come if the case goes to trial. For the most part, Rinder said, cases involving the church have played out in civil court, where lawyers for Scientology have largely been successful in convincing judges that its practices are irrelevant.

"Scientology had managed to persuade courts  that you can't inquire into our religious practices and beliefs and have managed to dissuade much discussion about Scientology," Rinder said.

In a 2019 trial, lawyers for Scientology failed to shield the church from court scrutiny when defense attorneys for a man accused of beating his sister-in-law and her husband to death in Prescott, Ariz., argued that his belief in the religion drove him to commit the crime, according to a report in the Arizona Republic. In that case, a jury found Kenneth Wayne Thompson carried out the slayings to protect his nephew from receiving psychiatric treatment, which his attorneys argued is barred by the church's doctrines.

Jurors heard testimony about the church's origins, and how members use a polygraph-like "E-meter" during a process meant to lead to spiritual clarity. Both prosecutors and church lawyers opposed the strategy to involve Scientology in the case, but a judge allowed it. Attempts to subpoena church records and call former Scientologists to testify, including Remini, were unsuccessful, however.

Testimony at Masterson's preliminary hearing at times was as much an explanation of the church's processes and cryptic vocabulary as an accounting of the actor's alleged sexual abuse.

One woman testified that she wrote a letter to an "International Justice Chief," whom she described as the church's ultimate authority on disputes between Scientologists, seeking permission to sue Masterson and report him to police. References were made in court to "knowledge reports," "Things That Shouldn't Be reports," and "O.W. write-ups." A prosecutor repeatedly evoked books and letters written by L. Ron Hubbard, the former science fiction author who founded the church, as official Scientology doctrine.

When a woman explained during her testimony that "wog-law" is the church's disdainful term for police and courts, Olmedo asked if Scientologists refer to non-members as "wogs," much like wizards in the fictional universe of Harry Potter call non-magical people "muggles."

"I suppose," the woman responded. "It's not a nice thing."

The three women who have accused Masterson of rape were identified in court by their first names and initials of their last names. The Times generally does not name victims of alleged sexual assault unless they choose to fully identify themselves.

Masterson's attorney, Thomas Mesereau, initially tried to minimize Scientology's place in the case, asking Olmedo to issue an order limiting mentions of the church or its practices in court. He argued the restrictions were needed because of "religious bias" that investigators from the Los Angeles Police Department and Masterson's accusers harbored against Scientology.

Olmedo slapped down the request, saying she found it "interesting" that Mesereau argued Scientology should have little to do with the case, but also referred to the church "88 times in a 29-page brief."

As the hearing wore on, Mesereau appeared to change tactics, introducing church documents as evidence in an attempt to undercut the credibility of Masterson's accusers.

While cross-examining one woman, he read from an "O.W. write-up" and suggested the church document amounted to an admission by the woman that her encounter with Masterson had been consensual and driven by her promiscuity. She fired back that the document had been written by church officials, who took comments she'd made to a Scientology counselor out of context and repurposed them to defend Masterson.

Mesereau also brought out a copy of "Introduction to Scientology Ethics," a 528-page tome authored by Hubbard, as he cross-examined another alleged victim.

When it was his turn to question the woman, Deputy District Attorney Reinhold Mueller took the book from Mesereau and had it admitted into the court record. He and the woman read aloud passages that she said she understood were official church doctrine that discourages Scientologists from reporting fellow parishioners to law enforcement.

As he finished his questioning, Mueller handed the book back to Mesereau and thanked him, saying it was "very helpful."

One of the women who testified at the hearing said that when she reported the alleged rape to church officials, she was told to read the chapter of "Introduction to Scientology Ethics" that instructs members not to go to police in such cases. In a one-on-one meeting, a church "ethics officer" told her "not to use the 'R-word'" and said it would be a "high crime" to report another Scientologist to law enforcement, the woman testified.

She also said she was required to complete an "ethics course" because she had done "something to ... deserve what [Masterson] did to me."

Rinder  whose parents were Scientologists and who described himself as part of Hubbard's inner circle from the mid-1970s until the author's death in 1986  said that in recent years, the church's responses to media inquiries had become "hermit-like." The fact that the church issued a detailed defense of its practices to The Times is a sign the Masterson case has become a significant problem for the church, he said.

"The fact that it's Danny Masterson from 'That 70's Show'  it's not just local media reporting on a local case, it blows it up way bigger. It becomes part of Bill Cosby and Harvey Weinstein," he said, referring to the #MeToo movement, which has outed several celebrities as sexual predators. "That instantly puts it into a different zone. Within Scientology, this becomes panic stations, high alert."
MOBILE, Ala. (AP)  Shell Oil Co. said Thursday it will sell an Alabama refinery designed to produce 90,000 barrels of crude oil and other products daily to Texas-based Vertex Energy for $75 million.

Shell said the cash deal was part of its plan to shed refineries that aren't aligned with trading hubs, chemical plants and marketing businesses.
GREENSBORO, N.C. (AP)  Eight people stormed a high school classroom and attacked a 14-year-old girl in an incident thought to have stemmed from an earlier fight at a school bus stop, a North Carolina sheriffs office said.

The Guilford County Sheriffs Office said Thursday that a 16-year-old female student helped the group get inside Southern Guilford High School and led them to an upstairs classroom. The sheriff's office described the group as six students and two adults and say they assaulted the 14-year-old student, who suffered facial injuries.
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WASHINGTON (AP)  Momentum in Congress for taking sexual assault prosecution powers away from military commanders, combined with a more flexible view by some military leaders, is pointing to a historic shift in the battle against what Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Thursday called the scourge of sexual assault.

The leading lawmaker voice on this issue, Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, a New York Democrat, has bipartisan, filibuster-proof support for a bill that would take prosecution decisions out of the chain of command for major crimes, including sexual assault, rape and murder. The legislation is caught in a procedural struggle in the Senate that supporters see as an effort to stall the bill and water down its language.

The Pentagon appears resigned to a new approach. Austin, who has emphasized the importance of the issue since his nomination was confirmed in January, is weighing military service leaders' views, which some or all provided to him in recent days.

In remarks to the House Appropriations defense subcommittee Thursday, Austin alluded to past resistance from the military to moving sexual assault prosecution decisions out of the chain of command.

We must not be afraid to try new approaches  to change our minds, Austin said, so that we can truly and fully address the scourge of sexual assault in our force." He added: Clearly what we've been doing hasn't been working. The number of sexual assaults are still too high, and confidence in our system is still too low."

For years, military leaders have acknowledged sexual assault is a big problem but resisted taking prosecutions out of the chain of command, arguing that it would undermine commanders' ability to lead and would not reduce the frequency of assaults. That concern  and others  remain, but some leaders have begun publicly emphasizing their openness to change.

The Biden administration's nominee as Air Force secretary, Frank Kendall, indicated he's prepared for a new approach.

Change is necessary, and hopefully we can move forward, Kendall told Gillibrand at his confirmation hearing Tuesday, praising her efforts. He added that he believes the problem of sexual assault is rooted in military culture and leadership flaws, and he's uncertain how broadly her proposed changes in prosecution authority should be applied.

This is a generational change whose time has come," Gillibrand said Tuesday on the Senate floor in seeking the required unanimous consent to put her bill to a vote.

Reflecting tensions on this issue among Democrats, Sen. Jack Reed, a Rhode Island Democrat and chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee, blocked Gillibrand's procedural move, arguing that her bill must be folded into the broader 2022 defense authorization bill that his committee will take up this summer and fall.

Reed has said he expects the broader defense bill to include a robust change in the role of the commander in sexual assault cases.

The shift in attitudes among some military leaders has emerged since President Joe Biden took office. During his campaign, Biden emphatically endorsed removing prosecution decisions on sexual assault and other major crimes from the chain of command. He said he would set up a commission to recommend a way forward early in his term.

We have to change the culture of abuse in this country, especially in the armed services, Biden said on April 29, 2020.

At Bidens direction, Austin, the Pentagon chief who is a former Army commander, established an Independent Review Commission on Sexual Assault to study ways to attack the problem. In April, the commission recommended taking prosecution powers out of the chain of command. It said that for certain special victims crimes, designated independent judge advocates reporting to a civilian-led Office of the Chief Special Victim Prosecutor should decide two key legal questions: whether to charge someone and, ultimately, whether that charge should go to a court martial. The crimes would include sexual assault, sexual harassment and, potentially, certain hate crimes.

Austin is weighing the military service leaders' views on this before deciding whether he will support it.

Doubts persist about whether establishing an independent prosecuting authority for sexual assault cases would help reverse a yearslong upward trend in the number of reported sexual assaults in the military.

The acting Army secretary, John E. Whitley, said in an Associated Press interview that the Army is focused more on improving the selection of commanders as a way to change attitudes and improve trust. He said data on the military's prosecution of sexual assault cases indicates that taking it out of the chain of command would not address the crux of the problem.

Part of my concern is were perhaps, were in a very fever pitch debate right now, Whitley said. "And I worry that the data are not perhaps coming through to the extent they should.

But some military leaders in recent weeks have signaled a willingness to consider new approaches to prosecution, given the failures of the current system and in light of growing pressure from Congress.

I'm open to the conversation, the Air Force chief of staff, Gen. Charles Q. Brown, said Tuesday.

Brown did not say whether he believes that taking prosecution decisions out of the chain of command would be a step in the right direction, but his comments suggest a break from the past. His predecessor and other service chiefs had been united in arguing strongly against the move, saying it would send a confusing message to service members about trust in their commander's judgment.

That solid wall of opposition began to crack in early May when the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Mark Milley, previously a prominent opponent, told the AP and CNN that he had changed his mind. Although he no longer opposes the idea, he has not publicly endorsed it, either. He said the time had come to try something different because weve been at it for years, and we havent effectively moved the needle.

Milley said he shifted his thinking in part because he is concerned that junior enlisted service members lack confidence in the fairness of sexual assault case outcomes. He said this amounts to an erosion of confidence in the military chain of command.

___

Associated Press writer Lolita C. Baldor contributed to this report.
HONOLULU (AP)  Ghost nets from unknown origins drift among the Pacific's currents, threatening sea creatures and littering shorelines with the entangled remains of what they kill.

Lost or discarded at sea, sometimes decades ago, this fishing gear continues to wreak havoc on marine life and coral reefs in Hawaii.

Now, researchers are doing detective work to trace this harmful debris back to fisheries and manufacturers  and that takes extensive, in-depth analysis on tons of ghost nets.

The biggest concern is that derelict gear keeps killing fish and other wildlife such as endangered Hawaiian monk seals, seabirds and turtles long after it's gone adrift, said Drew McWhirter, a graduate student at Hawaii Pacific University and one of the studys lead researchers.

These nets bulldoze over our reefs before they hit shore, McWhirter added. They leave a path of destruction, pulling coral heads out, and can cause a lot of ecological damage.

Ghost nets foul oceans throughout the world, but the Hawaiian Islands  with the Great Pacific Garbage Patch to the east and another gyre of floating trash to the west  are an epicenter for marine waste.

Past efforts to identify origins of nets have proven difficult because debris comes from so many countries and nets have few, if any, unique identifying marks or features.

Experts believe many nets are lost accidentally, but boats occasionally ditch nets to avoid prosecution when fishing illegally. Other fishermen cut away portions of damaged nets instead of returning them to shore.

The ghost net study is being supervised by Hawaii Pacific University's Center for Marine Debris Research co-director, Jennifer Lynch, a research biologist with the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Were going to have a very challenging time ... trying to identify it back to its source," said Lynch. And if we fail, ... thats going to be increased evidence for policymakers to see the importance of gear marking and potentially bring those kinds of regulations to the front.

For Lynch, it's not about pointing fingers. Rather, she hopes the study, which will be presented to the fishing industry first, will help develop new ways to prevent damage to the marine environment.

"Were doing this study in a very forensic way where were gathering as much evidence as we possibly can so that we can present the best, most accurate story, Lynch said.

The crew gets ghost nets from three sources: The main Hawaiian Islands, the fishing grounds of the Hawaii longline tuna fleet that often snags nets  and the shores of the uninhabited Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, which are part of Papahanaumokuakea National Marine Monument.

An April cleanup expedition to Papahanaumokuakea  the largest protected environment in the United States and a UNESCO World Heritage Site  brought back nearly 50 tons (45 metric tons) of nets and other lost gear.

In a shed on the university's campus, researchers pull apart bundles of fishing gear, noting the relationships between items. Then samples are taken to a lab for analysis.

We only really need a small sample here to really understand how its constructed," said Raquel Corniuk, a research technician at the university.

Researchers look at about 70 different aspects of each piece of net, including its polymer types. We look at how its twisted. Is it twisted versus braided? We are trying to look at how many strands does it have, its twine diameter, mesh stretch size," Corniuk said.

The information is entered into a database, which will help scientists find patterns that could lead to manufacturers and eventually individual fisheries or nations.

The researchers have spent about a year collecting data and hope to have findings peer reviewed and published this year.

Among the ghost gear are fish aggregation devices  or FADs  floating bundles of material fishing vessels leave in the ocean to attract fish. The devices have receivers linked to satellites, but when they drift outside designated fishing areas, they're usually abandoned.

Mike Conroy, president of West Coast Fisheries Consultants, works with purse seine and gillnet operators off California. He said FADs are prohibited in U.S. waters and that fishers do everything they can to prevent loss of nets.

An average one of those nets is going to run the operator somewhere between 150 and 250 grand, he said.

Conroy acknowledged ghost gear is a problem. "These types of research activities will point the finger in the right direction," he said. I think what you'll see is that West Coast fisheries probably aren't contributing much."

The researchers have already found debris from all corners of the Pacific, including Asian countries and the U.S. West Coast.

Much of the ghost net problem lies with less developed nations that have few fishing regulations and sometimes buy or manufacture low-quality nets, according to a career fisherman who now works for a net manufacturer in Washington state.

Their products tend to be weaker, said Brian Fujimoto, a sales executive for NET Systems Inc., in Bainbridge Island. And if you look at the poly netting and ropes that youre finding, theyre all very inexpensive stuff."

Fujimoto said his company uses technology, colors and other construction techniques unique to their products, so they're easily identifiable.

Making that an industry standard, he said, is only going to happen with the more industrialized nations, say for example, the U.S., Canada, Japan.

Daniel Pauly, a marine biologist and professor at the University of British Columbias Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, said, We kill fish for fishing and for consumption, but these fish that are killed by lost gear are killed for no reason, not to mention the marine mammal and turtles and other animals that we like."

"Clamping down on this loss, which is too easily accepted, ... is a good thing, added Pauly.

Jonathan Moore, principal assistant secretary of the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs at the U.S. State Department, said last year, Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, which is sometimes associated with ghost gear, is among the greatest threats to the sustainable use of our shared ocean resource."

Certainly, gear-marking guidelines and regulations should be a central pillar of all responsible fisheries management operations, he said.

Although U.S. and some international laws require identifying markers on some fishing gear, such as crab pots and buoys, nets are not required to be marked.

Officials with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations fisheries division declined to be interviewed for this story, but said in an email: NOAA Fisheries is unaware of any regulations that have been, or are being considered, with regard to ghost nets. We continue to work agency-wide on this international marine debris problem.

___

Follow Caleb Jones on Twitter: @CalebAP
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP)  A man suspected in a homicide case was found dead in a southwest Alaska home, apparently shot by an Alaska State Trooper during a nearly 24-hour standoff, an agency spokesperson said Thursday.

Troopers identified the man killed in Holy Cross Wednesday evening as Devyn Walker, 34.

At this time investigators believe that Devyn Walker was fatally wounded after an Alaska State Trooper discharged their service weapon striking Walker. The ultimate cause of death will be determined by the State Medical Examiner, troopers spokesperson Austin McDaniel said in an email to The Associated Press.

The Alaska Bureau of Investigations is investigating and will turn its findings over to the Alaska Office of Special Prosecutions. The trooper will not be identified for 72 hours following the incident.

The standoff began Tuesday when troopers from Bethel flew to Holy Cross after a reported shooting of a man in a boat. The victim was identified as Alden Gerald Walker Sr., 71, of Holy Cross. Troopers identified Devyn Walker as the suspect. He barricaded himself in a house and refused to surrender, troopers said. At one point, troopers said Devyn Walker fired a gun at them.

Troopers sent crisis negotiators and a special emergency reaction unit to Holy Cross. No troopers were injured.

Devyn Walkers body was sent to Anchorage for an autopsy.
TORONTO (AP)  Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Thursday made a formal apology for the internment of Italian-Canadians during the Second World War.

After Italy declared war against Canada in 1940, Canada interned more than 600 people of Italian heritage and declared about 31,000 as enemy aliens."

Trudeau said in Parliament Thursday that those labeled enemy aliens were fingerprinted, scrutinized and forced to report to local registrars once a month.

To the men and women who were taken to prisoner of war camps or jail without charge  people who are no longer with us to hear this apology  To the tens of thousands of innocent Italian-Canadians who were labelled enemy aliens  To the children and grandchildren who have carried a past generations shame and hurt  And to their community  a community that has given so much to our country  We are sorry, Trudeau said.

Trudeau noted that the parents of Frank Iacobucci, a former justice of Canadas Supreme Court, were among those labeled enemy aliens under a policy he said went against the values that Canada had gone to war to defend.

When, on June 10th 1940, this House of Commons declared war on Mussolinis fascist regime in Italy, Canada did not also have to declare war on Italian-Canadians, Trudeau said. To stand up to the Italian regime that had sided with Nazi Germany  that was right. But to scapegoat law-abiding Italian-Canadians  that was wrong."

Trudeau said internees werent afforded due legal process.

"When the authorities came to their door, when they were detained; there were no formal charges, no ability to defend themselves in an open and fair trial, no chance to present or rebut evidence," Trudeau said. Yet still, they were taken away to Petawawa or to Fredericton, to Kananaskis or to Kingston.

Justice Minister David Lametti said those who had made donations to the Italian Red Cross or were members of certain labor groups were put on Royal Canadian Mounted Police lists.

Canada's government had apologized in 1988 for also interning more 22,000 Japanese-Canadians.

Canada is now home to approximately 1.6 million Italian-Canadians, one of the largest Italian diasporas in the world.
SPOKANE, Wash. (AP)  Some Native American tribes in the Pacific Northwest are criticizing the suggestion they have competing opinions on how best to save endangered salmon runs, saying tribes are united in pursuing the removal of four hydroelectric dams on the Snake River in order to preserve the iconic fish.

A dozen tribes issued a joint press release on Wednesday rejecting the notion that tribes based near Puget Sound might have differing goals than inland tribes.
NEW DELHI (AP)  Twitter on Thursday said it is worried about the safety of its staff in India and called for the government to respect freedom of expression, days after Indian police visited its office in New Delhi over its labeling of a tweet by a governing party spokesman as manipulated media.

Twitter has been involved in a tense battle with the Indian government, which has often asked it to restrict content alleging Prime Minister Narendra Modis administration is trying to silence criticism, including of its handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

Twitter said it has concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people we serve.

Indias IT ministry called Twitters statement totally baseless, false and an attempt to defame India. It said Twitter should comply with the laws of the land instead of dictating what Indias legal policy framework should be."

The ministry also said representatives of social media companies including Twitter are and will always remain safe in India.

On Monday, Indian police visited the Twitter office in New Delhi to serve a notice directing it to answer questions about its tagging of the tweet as manipulated.

It appears that Twitter has some information which is not known to us on the basis of which they have classified it as such, police said in a statement.

On Wednesday, the messaging app WhatsApp filed a lawsuit in Delhi High Court arguing that new government rules that require it to make messages traceable to external parties are unconstitutional and undermine the fundamental right to privacy.

WhatsApp currently uses end-to-end encryption for its messaging service, which encrypts messages in such a way that no one apart from the sender and receiver are able to read the messages sent between them.

Sweeping new regulations for technology companies were announced in February that hold them more accountable for content shared on their platforms. A 90-day grace period for complying with the rules ended Wednesday.

Leaders from Modis party last week tweeted portions of a document they said was created by the main opposition Congress party to make the government look bad over its handling of the pandemic. Some Congress leaders complained to Twitter, saying the document was forged. In response, Twitter marked some posts as manipulated media.

Under Twitter rules, it applies manipulated media tags to posts that have been deceptively altered or fabricated.

Twitter said in its statement Thursday that "to keep our service available, we will strive to comply with applicable law in India.

But, just as we do around the world, we will continue to be strictly guided by principles of transparency, a commitment to empowering every voice on the service, and protecting freedom of expression and privacy under the rule of law, it said.

Critics accuse Modis government of silencing criticism on social media, particularly Twitter, a charge senior leaders of the governing party have denied.

The new social media regulations give the government more power to police online content. They require internet platforms such as Facebook and Twitter to erase content that authorities deem to be unlawful and to help with police investigations, including identifying the originators of mischievous information.

Social media sites, including Twitter, Facebook and WhatsApp, were given three months to comply.
UNITED NATIONS (AP)  The United Nations launched an emergency appeal Thursday for $95 million for Gaza for the next three months to meet immediate humanitarian needs and repairs to key facilities. That includes hospitals, schools, water and sewage facilities and other infrastructure destroyed or damaged during the recent conflict between Israel and Gazas militant Hamas rulers.

Lynn Hastings, the U.N. humanitarian coordinator in Gaza, urged donors to contribute generously at a virtual news conference launching the appeal, which she said will target one million people for assistance.

Im calling for humanitarian assistance right now to meet the immediate needs, she said.

Hastings said the conflict left 800,000 people without regular access to piped water. Untreated sewage water was being discharged into the sea and 58 education facilities were damaged, including 285 buildings with over 1,000 housing and commercial units destroyed. Six hospitals and 11 health care centers were also damaged, and electricity was down to four to six hours a day.

The $95 million is to meet immediate needs for food, health care, medicine, medical supplies, and quick repairs of some infrastructure, she said, adding that an assessment is under way to determine priority needs.

Hastings said the majority of the money will go to Gaza but some will go to the West Bank and east Jerusalem, mainly to help injured people, possibly with cash assistance, psycho-social help or protection issues.

We need the immediate life-saving needs moving on to reconstruction and recovery, and ideally with a political horizon in place. That, of course, is the most important thing to stop the continuation of these hostilities, Hastings stressed.

All of us need to ensure that we are not repeating the mistakes that keeps bringing us back to having to rebuild Gaza, she said.

Asked what steps were being taken to ensure that funds donated for the appeal arent diverted to Hamas, Hastings said the U.N. has a very heavy monitoring process in place and were working on it with the Israelis and the Palestinian Authority to see if it can be improved in any way.
UNITED NATIONS (AP)  The U.N. Security Council on Thursday unanimously approved an Iraqi request for a U.N. team to monitor parliamentary elections in October.

A resolution adopted by the council authorized the U.N. political mission in Iraq and U.N. special representative Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert to provide a strengthened, robust and visible U.N. team, with additional staff, in advance of Iraqs forthcoming election, to monitor Iraqs election day with as broad a geographic coverage as possible.

Earlier this month, Hennis-Plasschaert told the council that the Iraqi people demanded these elections during mass protests in which some paid with their lives, and now is not the time to let them down. She urged Iraqis to uphold the integrity of the elections, saying the world will be watching to see that voting is free and transparent and without political pressure or interference.

Anti-government demonstrators took to the streets by the tens of thousands last year to demand political change and an end to rampant corruption and poor services in the country. More than 500 people were killed in the protests as security forces used live rounds and tear gas to disperse crowds.

Last July, Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi announced that early elections would be held to meet their demands. But Iraqs Cabinet voted in January to postpone the balloting for four months, until October, after the electoral commission sought the delay for technical reasons.

The elections, scheduled for Oct. 10, will decide the 328 members of the Council of Representatives, who in turn elect the president and prime minister.

Responding to the Iraqi foreign ministers letter on Feb. 11 requesting the U.N. send observers ahead of the elections, the Security Council not only gave a green light for U.N. monitors but also authorized the U.N. mission in Iraq to provide logistical and security support to international and regional observers invited by the Iraqi government.

The council also authorized the mission and the U.N. envoy to launch a U.N. strategic messaging campaign to educate, inform, and update Iraqi voters on election preparations, and U.N. activities in support of elections in advance of and on election day.

The resolution , which extended the Iraq mission's mandate until May 27, 2022, requested Hennis-Plasschaert to provide advice, support and assistance to the government and the Independent High Electoral Commission on planning and executing genuinely free and fair Iraqi-led, Iraqi-owned elections."

U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield told the council on May 11 that al-Kadhimis administration has worked to fulfill its promise of credible early elections, and to maximize turnout at a critical moment in Iraqs history.

She called the elections a top priority for the U.S. and the U.N. and said the Biden administration wants a U.N. team sizable enough to deter fraud, increase turnout, and rebuild trust in Iraqs democracy.

The resolution does not state how many U.N. election monitors will be sent to Iraq, and Thomas-Greenfield gave no number either.

The U.S. ambassador said a robust monitoring team is needed because violence by armed actors against citizens, security forces, and journalists threaten to undermine the election. She cited reports that militias are harassing activists, protesters, and people who criticize armed groups operating outside state control.
UNITED NATIONS (AP)  The U.N. humanitarian chief warned the Security Council that the humanitarian crisis in Ethiopias embattled Tigray region is worsening and there is a serious risk of famine if assistance is not scaled up in the next two months.

In a note to the council obtained Wednesday by The Associated Press, Mark Lowcock said: It is clear that people living in the Tigray region are now facing significantly heightened food insecurity as a result of conflict, and that conflict parties are restricting access to food.

He said the latest alert on May 19 from the Famine Early Warning System Network indicated that central and eastern Tigray and some areas of the northwest and southeast are currently in Phase 4, which means at least 20% of the population faces emergency food insecurity.

Lowcock said the estimated population in those areas is 3.3 million people and the network says they face very high acute malnutrition and excess mortality.

No one knows how many thousands of civilians or combatants have been killed since months of political tensions between Ethiopian President Abiy Ahmeds government and the Tigray leaders who once dominated Ethiopias government exploded into war last November. Eritrea, a longtime Tigray enemy, teamed up with neighboring Ethiopia in the conflict.

Lowcock painted a grim picture of Tigray since November, with an estimated 2 million people displaced, civilians killed and injured, rapes and other forms of abhorrent sexual violence widespread and systematic and public and private infrastructure essential for civilians destroyed, including hospitals and agricultural land.

The destruction and violence against civilians continue even now across Tigray, he said.

Lowcock said the need for food is driven in part by below average rains, desert locust infestations, economic conditions and the COVID-19 pandemic, but added that the scale of the food crisis Tigray faces today is a clear result of the conflict and the behavior of the parties.

The conflict broke out at the peak of the last harvest season, and over 90% of the harvest was lost due to looting, burning and other destructive activities and 80% of the livestock in the region were also looted or slaughtered, he said. In addition, 46% of general and primary hospitals arent functioning because of looting and destructive actions and 37% are only partially functioning, he said.

Having missed one harvest, the region now faces a second failed agricultural season, as continued fighting is preventing planting before rains beginning in June, Lowcock said. This means that we project the population will be even more dependent on the delivery of humanitarian relief in the coming months.

He said that since March, humanitarian organizations have been scaling up their presence and response and are targeting 5.2 million people in need of food, including all 3.3 million in the Phase 4 emergency areas.

But despite improvements in March, Lowcock said access for humanitarian workers has recently deteriorated, with organizations told by armed actors to stop distributing food in some areas and many humanitarian vehicles turned back at checkpoints and regularly searched. As a result, he said, not nearly enough support is being provided.

Lowcock said the three main providers of food assistance reached 2.2 million people in Tigray between March 27 and May 12, but this falls far short of the 5.2 million in need of support.

Concrete measures are urgently needed to break the vicious cycle between armed conflict, violence and food insecurity, he said. I urge members of the Security Council and other member states to take any steps possible to prevent a famine from occurring.
Health authorities started inoculating a potential 5.14 million people aged 65 to 74 against coronavirus on Thursday. They are given AstraZeneca's vaccine.

The government expects the pace to pick up after it increased vaccination centers from around 2,000 to 13,000 and a new reservation system has been set up to use up leftover vaccines.

As of Wednesday, the vaccination rate for first injections in Korea stood at just 7.7 percent and at a mere 3.8 percent for second shots. So far just 60.1 percent of the newly eligible 65-74-year-olds have booked their jabs amid lingering fears of side effects.

Health officials have pleaded with the elderly to get vaccinated soon because their next chance will not come until October at the earliest. They say deaths could decline sharply if all 13 million Koreans over 60, who are considered the most vulnerable age group, get their first shots by June and a quarter of the population acquires immunity.

Vaccine supplies are gradually increasing. According to health authorities, 9.74 million out of 18.4 million contracted doses have arrived, while another 8.64 million are expected by the end of June, including 55,000 doses of Moderna's vaccine.

The government hopes to boost the vaccination rate, so 36 million people get their first injection by the end of September and 36 million get their second shots by the end of November.


WASHINGTON (AP)  U.S. pipeline operators will be required for the first time to conduct a cybersecurity assessment under a Biden administration directive in response to the ransomware hack that disrupted gas supplies in several states this month.

The Transportation Security Administration directive released Thursday also requires that pipeline owners and operators report any cyber incidents to the federal government and have a cybersecurity coordinator available at all times to work with authorities in the event of an attack like the one that shut down Colonial Pipeline.

Pipeline companies, which until now operated under voluntary guidelines, could face financial penalties that start at $7,000 per day if they fail to comply with a security directive that reflects an administration focus on cybersecurity that predates the May attack on Colonial, senior Department of Homeland Security officials said.

The evolution of ransomware attacks in the last 12-18 months has gotten to a point that it poses a national security risk and that we are concerned about the impact on national critical functions, one of the officials said, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss details of the regulation ahead of the formal release.

The six-page directive, which takes effect Friday, applies to owners and operators of hazardous liquids or natural gas pipelines or natural gas facilities that have been deemed part of the nation's critical infrastructure that must be protected from cyber threats such as ransomware.

Criminal syndicates, often based in Russia or elsewhere in Eastern Europe, have unleashed a wave of ransomware attacks in which they scramble a targets data with encryption and demand a ransom. Victims have included state and local governments, hospitals and medical researchers and businesses large and small, leaving some victims unable to perform even routine operations.

The hack that targeted Colonial Pipeline prompted the company to shut down a system that delivers about 45% of the gasoline consumed on the East Coast for about a week. It led to panic-buying and shortages at gas stations from Washington, D.C., to Florida.

It came up in Congress on Wednesday as DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas outlined the agency's budget next year to the House Appropriations Committee's subcommittee for homeland security.

The Colonial Pipeline breach, in particular, was a wake-up call to many Americans about how malicious cyber actors, often backed by foreign states, can disrupt the U.S. economy and all of our lives, said Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard, D-Calif., the panel's chair.

Colonial Pipeline, based in Alpharetta, Georgia, later disclosed it paid a ransom of $4.4 million to retrieve access to its data from the gang of hackers, linked by the FBI to a Russian-speaking criminal syndicate known as DarkSide.

The episode exposed the threat to the vast network of pipeline used to transport oil, other liquids and natural gas around the U.S.

The TSA is responsible for the physical security and cybersecurity of this network and has worked with owners and operators, about 100 companies in all, to develop the voluntary guidelines and conducts on-site assessments. Lawmakers and experts have been critical of industry security standards.

DHS, under Mayorkas, launched a 60-day sprint to focus the agency on the ransomware threat weeks before the Colonial Pipeline hack became publicly known on May 7. The directive is intended to address issues that emerged in the response and may have enabled the hack to occur in the first place.

Pipeline owners will be required to do the assessment within 30 days. They will have to show how their processes line up with the voluntary guidelines, identify any gaps and provide a plan for addressing them, the officials said.

Operators will be required for the first time to report any cybersecurity incidents to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, another DHS component. Companies have been reluctant to report breaches in the past for a variety of reasons, including embarrassment and concern that they could expose themselves to legal liability.

Pipeline companies will also have to designate a cybersecurity coordinator who would be on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week to work with TSA and CISA in case of a breach like the one at Colonial Pipeline.
DETROIT (AP)  A suburban Detroit man is the ninth person from Michigan charged in the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol.

Anthony Puma, 49, is accused of breaking into the Capitol through a window and encouraging others at the mob scene, The Detroit News reported, citing a court filing.
LANSING, Mich. (AP)  Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Thursday proposed using a budget surplus to finally eliminate a funding gap among K-12 districts, 27 years after Michigan overhauled the financing of public education.

Under the Democratic governor's revised proposal, districts and charter schools would receive $8,692 in base per-student aid from the state. That is $581, or 7%, more for about 84% of traditional districts and charter schools. Districts at the higher end would get an additional $163, or a nearly 2% increase.

An existing $418 gap between lower- and higher-funded schools would be fully closed.

The $664 million in proposed spending was outlined as part of a $2.6 billion plan to spend surplus state revenues and a portion of federal COVID-19 relief funding on education. Whitmer and the Republican-led Legislature want to finalize the next budget in the coming month.

With the resources we have available to us thanks to federal aid and a state surplus, we can making lasting, transformative investments in our kids and schools that will have positive impacts for generations, the governor said in a statement. She announced the framework at a school in Bay City.

Whitmer proposed giving schools $500 million to hire and retain more teachers, psychologists, social workers and nurses, and to relieve student loans for mental health workers and nurses in high-need districts. Another $500 million would be used to upgrade school infrastructure; $100 million would hire more guidance and career counselors.

About $350 million help schools facing lost enrollment  and less aid  due to the coronavirus pandemic. Other funds would boost spending on vocational and skilled trades programs, literacy coaches and provide a 2% funding increase for community colleges.

Days ago, state officials agreed that revenues are much higher than expected amid consumers' spending of federal stimulus checks and increased unemployment benefits for which more jobless workers are eligible in the pandemic.

House Appropriations Committee Chairman Thomas Albert, a Lowell Republican, noted that a House-approved plan would continue to close the funding gap among districts and prioritize mental health and special education spending.

I am encouraged to see the governor recognize these priorities and build upon them. However, as we move forward, I hope the governor will recognize structural concerns to school finance in regard to pension costs," he said in a statement.

Albert said his primary focus is prioritizing in-person instruction and helping students catch up on learning lost in the pandemic.

In 1994, voters approved Proposal A, which replaced most property taxes levied for schools with an increased state sales tax. One of the promises was more funding equity among districts as the state assumed a greater share of school funding.

What began in the 1994-95 school year as a $2,300 difference between the minimum and maximum per-pupil grants is now $418. More than three-dozen other wealthier or far-flung hold-harmless districts with grants above the state-guaranteed maximum could still levy additional mills to get their statutory allowance.

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TOPEKA, Kan. (AP)  A state lawmaker from Wichita is giving up her seat, making her the third Democrat in the Kansas House to resign this month.

Rep. Elizabeth Bishop told colleagues Wednesday that she wanted to retire and it was her last day in the Legislature. It also was lawmakers' last day in session for the year.
DANBURY, Conn. (AP)  A Connecticut woman has been charged with manslaughter in connection with the death of her 1-year-old grandson, police said.

Danbury police said they arrested Cora Brandon, 60, on Wednesday after an investigation implicated her in the child's death in March. A judge on Tuesday signed an arrest warrant charging Brandon with first-degree manslaughter, five counts of risk of injury to a child and possession of drugs.
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) 

A woman has pleaded guilty to reduced charges in her teenage involvement with the death of a police officer, a plea deal that comes after the Utah Supreme Court overturned her original conviction.

Meagan Grunwald's pleas likely mean she'll serve less than her original sentence of up to life in prison, Fox13 news reported. She pleaded guilty to second-degree felony charges of manslaughter and assault on a police officer.

Grunwald's boyfriend shot and killed Utah County Sheriffs Sgt. Cory Wride after he happened upon the couples pickup truck pulled over on a snowy day in 2014.

Grunwald drove away, sparking a multi-county chase that ended with the death of the boyfriend, Jose Angel Garcia Juaregui. Deputy Greg Sherwood was shot in the head and survived.

Grunwald, who was then 17, testified that the much-older Juaregui had forced her to drive.

Prosecutors, though, argued she wanted to help him. She was convicted of murder under Utah accomplice law.

But the states top court later found that different jury instructions might have led to a different outcome.

In a new statement that accompanied her plea agreement earlier this month, Grunwald acknowledged she was "reckless as to whether my aid would result in the death of Sgt. Wride."

Her sentencing is set for next month.
PRIMGHAR, Iowa (AP)  An Iowa woman accused of helping the parents of a slain infant invent a story to cover up the babys injuries has pleaded not guilty to being an accessory.

Stacie Hurlburt, 49, of Sheldon, pleaded not guilty Wednesday to two counts of accessory after the fact, the Sioux City Journal reported.
By Olivia Wynkoop

Bay City News Foundation

The San Francisco Police Department at Tuesday's Board of Supervisors meeting shared an update on the department's reform efforts.

The department has so far completed 253 of the 272 recommendations the U.S. Department of Justice gave the department in 2016, according to police data. The 19 remaining changes are in the works, and Chief William Scott says six are to be completed this year.

"Awareness of the fact that we have a problem and accepting the fact that we have a problem is step one, and we've done that as an organization. Now we're working to change the narrative on that," Scott told the supervisors.

A slew of police shootings in 2015 and 2016 started the push for the department's reform, according to police spokesman Matt Dorsey.

A few months after former Chief Greg Suhr resigned, the DOJ cited dozens of recommendations to change bias, community policing, the use of force, accountability and hiring practices.

Since then, the department has shifted its focus to what Scott calls a "guardian mentality." De-escalation trainings, recruitment of diverse officers and stricter misconduct rules are some of the policies that have been implemented thus far, the department said.

A handful of recommendations regarding use of force, community policing and accountability remain.

Scott said the department is working to teach what bias by proxy is to prevent racial profiling. If someone calls the station based on their bias, the department will work to understand the situation in its entirety before acting.

"We've seen videos over and over that have gone viral, some person calling the police in their local city based on their own biases, and then also respond and make that situation worse by not handling it appropriately. We don't want that to happen in our city," Scott said.

Dorsey said that SFPD has turned from a "police reforming department to a police reform evangelizing department." Since the Black Lives Matter protests last summer, the department has been a leading force in police reform since then as others agencies just begin to make changes, Dorsey added.

"I think we're in a better place than a lot of sister law enforcement agencies just because of the work that Scott has been working on for years. But that doesn't mean there isn't more work to do. We're not taking a victory lap, we're not there yet," Dorsey said.

Social justice groups agree there's still more work to be done and question how much progress has been made. Members from the organization Wealth and Disparities in the Black Community used the public comment section of the meeting to express disappointment in the Board of Supervisors for not instilling "actual discipline and actual enforcing" for "officers who have the power of life and death in their hands."

"Clearly, the reforms that have been put in place are not keeping people from dying, keeping people from being traumatized, and abused by police officers," said one speaker.

"Despite the view that Chief Scott has presented tonight, there's been no improvements in the racist policing and racist attitudes within the SFPD," another speaker said. "The system continues to suffer outrageous disproportionate outcomes due to San Francisco's racist policing."

The group cited SFPD's latest quarterly statistics showing that although the department has decreased its use of force incidents by 65 percent since 2016, 38 percent of those instances are still against Black residents, compared to 27 percent of cases against white ones.

Scott admitted that, though the numbers are still disproportionate, they are decreasing.

"It forces us to relook at what we do and be able to be adaptable and flexible enough to change directions on our policies and our protocols. That's the beauty of reform and having an infrastructure to support that type of flexibility and adaptability," Scott said.

Supervisor Myrna Melgar said that data and consultants can be insightful, but numbers cannot make up for the department's history with residents. She wants to see long-lasting change come from within the Police Department.

"As we're going into budget season, what I'd like to do is to make sure that the resources are used for that culture change, to increase the capacity of your folks, to get them to understand what they're doing, and why, because it will make them better," Melgar told Scott. "Not to farm out any of these activities so that you can just produce the numbers for us, because I don't think that that's particularly useful in the long run."

Supervisor Shamann Walton said the city still has a long way to go to get to a trusting relationship between the police and the communities they serve.

"On this day, remember George Floyd, and see the hate that some people have for human beings, just because of the color of their skin," Walton said.

Copyright  2021 Bay City News, Inc. All rights reserved. Republication, rebroadcast or redistribution without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. Bay City News is a 24/7 news service covering the greater Bay Area.

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Sharon, PA (16146)

Today

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 84F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 63F. Winds light and variable.
Shelbyville, IL (62565)

Today

Mixed clouds and sun this morning. Scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 93F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low near 70F. Winds light and variable.
SHELTON  The Boys and Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley provided 20 young people with more than $37,000 in college scholarships  a gift club officials say offers teenagers hope and opportunity.

Linda Welch, retired Shelton educator and long-time club board member, has led the clubs scholarship committee for some 30 years. Welch says the awards are given to Club kids planning to pursue higher education in college or a trade school.

Sometimes kids need a boost to help them reach their full potential, Welch said. The Club is part of that solution, and the scholarship program can provide that much-needed boost. (I do this) knowing that some young boy or girl will have the opportunity for post-secondary education and will make a better life for themselves.

Welch said she reviews dozens of applications and organizes the distribution of funds with Club staff and board volunteers. Valley students have attended a variety of colleges from Housatonic Community College to Yale University, in pursuit of a wide range of degrees over the decades.

Linda has worked endlessly for the last 30 years to award well over half a million dollars in scholarship funds to local teens, Boys and Girls Club CEO Shaye Roscoe said. We are so grateful for her leadership and for the continued growth and success of the scholarship program to support Club kids as they reach their full potential through education.

This years recipients include the Boys and Girls Clubs 2021 Youth of the Year, Siommorra Hill, who plans to attend New York University to pursue theater.

This means so much to me, Hill said through tears upon receiving her scholarship. Im just at a loss for words.

Also among the 2021 scholarship recipients was Club kid-turned-staff member Alain Marcelin, who will receive his bachelors degree in business administration from Post University.

Wow, Marcelin said, this actually helped me graduate college, which is a huge achievement in my life, and for that I will always be thankful.

Many of the scholarship recipients said they viewed their award as an opportunity to give back. Tiffany Brum, who received her third annual scholarship and who attends the University of New Haven, said, With this money I can finish off my last years at the UNH and continue onto law school, which will allow me to help others.

To donate to the Boys and Girls Club scholarship program or to become a club member, visit www.BGC-LNV.org.
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP)  Lawyers helping the New York Assembly investigate whether Gov. Andrew Cuomo should be impeached have interviewed five more people over the past month, a lawmaker overseeing the probe said Wednesday.

Speaking at a legislative meeting, Assembly Judiciary Committee Chair Charles Lavine said lawyers have spoken with attorneys for about 75 people and entities for the investigation. Lavine, a Democrat, spoke for roughly five minutes on an audio stream of the meeting, before the committee went into closed-door executive session.

That's a small increase from April 21, when Lavine said investigators had spoke with attorneys for about 70 people and four government agencies.

The Democratic governor is now facing multiple wide-ranging probes over allegations ranging from groping a current female aide to trying to boost his public image by refusing to disclose how many nursing home residents died of COVID-19 for months.

The Judiciary Committee has released few details about its ongoing investigation, launched in mid-March. Its unknown when the probe will wrap up or if it will hold public hearings.

Thus far, Davis Polk has reviewed tens of thousands of pages of documents, Lavine said Wednesday, referring to the Manhattan law firm assisting with the committee's probe. The documents include email and text correspondence, photographs, personnel records, training materials and policies.

Critics, including state Sen. Alessandra Biaggi, a Democrat, have argued the probe is being dragged out to buy time for the governor.

Lavine defended the $250,000 initial budget for the probe Wednesday, and said its been expected that the probe will end costing more.

Meanwhile, investigators have received about 290 tips  including 165 emails and 125 voicemails  submitted to the Assembly's hotline. That's also up from late April, when Lavine said investigators received more than 200 tips.

The Assembly's probe is focused on whether there are grounds to impeach Cuomo over four main issues: sexual harassment and groping allegations lodged against the Democrat by current and former aides, the administrations efforts to withhold a full count of COVID-19 deaths in nursing homes, the governors use of aides to help write his book on pandemic leadership that garnered him $5 million and his administrations handling of safety concerns about the Mario Cuomo Bridge.

Lavine has said investigators are also examining whether the governor helped family members get special access to coronavirus tests last spring.

The governor has rebuffed calls for his resignation from a majority of state Democratic lawmakers, including several who have since appeared with Cuomo in public.

State Attorney General Letitia James is separately investigating the sexual harassment allegations against Cuomo.

Cuomo faces accusations ranging from groping under a womans shirt and planting unwanted kisses to asking current and former employees unwelcome personal questions about sex and dating.

Cuomo has denied touching any women inappropriately. He has maintained that he never sexually harassed anyone and said he's made remarks that were misinterpreted as an unwanted flirtation.

New York state regulations say sexual harassment includes unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature  from flirtation to sexual jokes  that creates an offensive work environment, regardless of a perpetrators intent.

James has expanded her probe to include Cuomo's book deal, as well as allegations that a former Cuomo aide who oversaw the state's vaccine rollout pressured county leaders to support Cuomo.

Separately, federal prosecutors are scrutinizing the Cuomo administration's handling of COVID-19 nursing home data.

The governor has defended his administrations decision to wait until early this year to release how many nursing home residents died of COVID-19 at hospitals, arguing that state health officials needed to verify that data. The Associated Press first requested those figures in March 2020.

The Wall Street Journal reported that federal prosecutors are now investigating whether members of Cuomos inner circle got rushed access to COVID-19 testing last spring.
ATLANTA (AP)  With a dozen states rejecting an offer of extra federal money if they expend Medicaid, Georgia's two Democratic U.S. senators are now pushing for a federal workaround.

Sens. Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock on Wednesday wrote a letter saying they want the federal government to find a way to provide health insurance coverage to people in Georgia and 11 other states that haven't agreed to expand the Medicaid program.

The federal government, which already funded coverage for these individuals through the Affordable Care Act, has a responsibility to step in and help these citizens who have been left behind by their state leadership, Ossoff and Warnock wrote. We cannot continue to allow Americans with low incomes to suffer any longer just because they live in a state that has been overcome by political obstruction.

Democrats had tried to motivate the 12 remaining holdouts by offering extra money to states that adopt Medicaid expansion through coronavirus relief. The federal government offered to boost its share of costs in the regular Medicaid program for two years if the states would expand Medicaid to cover more of the poorest Americans. Many able-bodied adults with low incomes are not currently covered, although those making more than 138% of the federal poverty level are eligible for federal health insurance subsidies paid to private insurers through an online marketplace.

In the letter to Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, Georgias senators said they were working on legislation to create a federal workaround or pursue other strategies to provide coverage in holdout states. The two said they want the legislation attached either to President Joe Biden's infrastructure proposal or his proposal to provide additional education and family support benefits.

They said any alternative should not require insurance premiums and should require people who are insured to cover a low share of costs, like the traditional Medicaid program. Warnock and Ossoff didnt outline how they would make up for the state share of the costs over the long term, though.

Judy Solomon, a senior fellow on health policy at the liberal-leaning Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, said one approach could be to use the federal marketplace and subsidize private insurers, creating plans with no premiums and smaller copayments. Another approach would be for the federal government to set up Medicaid-only plans in states that didn't expand the program.

Solomon said there are a lot of details to work out, but that people who were supposed to get coverage in 2014 shouldn't have to wait any longer.

Medicaid expansion is the keystone of Democratic policy demands in most states that have kept narrower eligibility. A federal workaround would give Warnock a major achievement as he seeks election to a full six-year term in 2022.

An analysis by the Kaiser Family Foundation found the additional federal money offered under the coronavirus relief incentives would send Georgia about $1.4 billion over two years, and the states share of expanding coverage would be about $640 million. Georgia would end up $700 million ahead. More than 450,000 people in the state could become eligible for coverage.

But Republican leaders in Georgia and other states have ignored the enticement. Instead, Gov. Brian Kemp has been pursuing a more limited expansion that would impose work or education requirement to receive the benefits. The plan seeks to add an estimated 50,000 poor and uninsured Georgia residents to the Medicaid rolls in its first two years, with Republicans saying it's a more narrowly tailored, fiscally responsible alternative to a full expansion.

President Joe Bidens administration froze former President Donald Trumps approval of Kemp's plan, although Georgia lawmakers provided money for it anyway in the budget beginning July 1.

One-size-fits-all, government-run health care has failed to deliver results for Georgians in need, Kemp spokesperson Cody Hall said, indicating that's why Kemp has pursued his own plan.

The Georgia House voted 98-68 in March to reject full expansion, with majority Republicans rejecting the Democratic gambit.

Other states have been equally resistant. Republican lawmakers in Wisconsin on Tuesday opened and then closed within moments a special session that had been called by the Democratic governor seeking Medicaid expansion.

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Follow Jeff Amy on Twitter at http://twitter.com/jeffamy.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The Justice Department is refocusing a long-standing violent crime initiative amid a string of violence and mass shootings across the U.S. that includes embedding federal agents with local homicide investigators and sweeps to arrest wanted fugitives with a significant history of violence.

In announcing the initiative on Wednesday, federal officials took strains to try to distinguish it from prior, similar operations, like Operation Legend, that became a political talking point during the end of the Trump administration.

Today, we renew our commitment to reducing violent crime and building strong communities where all Americans are safe, Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement.

It comes as a number of cities are seeing increases in violent crime  though such spikes are common in the summer months  and as the number of mass shootings in the nation continues to rise. Eight people were killed on Wednesday when an employee opened fire at a California rail yard serving Silicon Valley, before he ended his own life.

The new focus of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program that encourages federal, state and local law enforcement officials to work together on crime-reduction strategies, will not be on the number of arrests but on how it is driving down violent crime, and officials will not tout the number of prosecutions that are being brought, senior Justice Department officials said.

But an hour before the refocusing was announced, the U.S. attorneys office in Maryland held a news conference to say it was expanding a different violent crime initiative, known as Project Exile, which focuses on gun crimes and has been criticized by criminal justice reform activists, who say it leads to mandatory minimum sentences and disproportionately targets Black men. The office also touted the number of gun cases it brought both last year and in recent weeks, seeming to directly contradict the messaging from other senior department leaders.

A senior Justice Department official said that the department was taking a comprehensive approach to violent crime and that things like targeted gun enforcement have to be a part of this kind of broader plan. The official would not discuss the matter publicly and briefed reporters on condition of anonymity.

As part of the plan, U.S. attorneys across the nation are being told to align their initiatives to improve community engagement, support violence intervention programs, create plans to work with state, local and tribal law enforcement officials and then measure the reduction in violent crime.

It also requires federal prosecutors to establish an immediate plan to address spikes in violent crime that usually crop up during the summer.

The Department recognizes that there is no one-size-fits-all solution and that the needs of each jurisdiction will vary based on the nature of violent crimes and the ability of local criminal justice systems to respond, the Justice Department said in announcing the program.

Such initiatives are routine for the department, and for decades federal agents and local law enforcement officers have worked alongside one another in task forces targeting violent crime, drug trafficking, fugitives and sex offenders.
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP)  Republicans on Wednesday pushed a resolution through the Kansas House expressing the state's solidarity with Israel and condemning Hamas militants as terrorists after an 11-day war this month in the Gaza Strip.

The House voted 83-27 in favor of the resolution, which will be sent to Israeli government representatives in the U.S. It inspired a brief but intense debate, with two of the Legislature's most liberal members arguing that the measure ignored abuses by the Israeli government against Palestinians.

The resolution was the Legislature's last order of business before members adjourned for the year. Republicans in both chambers approved another non-binding resolution calling on Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly to end extra unemployment benefits in Kansas that were provided under federal coronavirus relief legislation, in the latest attempt by Republicans to ratchet up pressure on her.

The resolution on Israel said Kansas views Israel as a trusted ally" and endeavors to work toward peace" while ensuring "security for Israel's people, neighbors and citizens of the world."

They've been a great partner to us, and we just wanted to acknowledge that to them, said state Rep. Chris Croft, an Overland Park Republican.

The Kansas House's brief debate came a day after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken traveled to the Mideast to announce initiatives aimed at bolstering the Palestinian government and promising that President Joe Biden's administration was committed to rebuilding the United States' relationship with Palestinians.

The Kansas House's resolution did not mention the war, which killed more than 250 people, mostly Palestinians, and caused heavy destruction. Instead, it condemned Hamas' rocket attacks on Israeli cities.

The resolution also didn't mention questions about Israels policing of Palestinians or the threatened eviction of dozens of Palestinian families by Jewish settlers.

Democratic state Rep. Boog Highberger, of Lawrence, argued that Palestinians have been under occupation for decades. He said lawmakers should call for lasting peace and dignity for Arabs instead of "supporting the murder of civilians.

And Democratic state Rep. Aaron Coleman, of Kansas City, Kansas, who is Jewish, said: The American revolutionaries  they used violence to get our independence, and now the Palestinians are using the same tactics that George Washington embraced to get their independence.

All votes against the resolution came from Democrats, but four voted yes. Seven Republicans and eight Democrats were either absent or did not vote.

Rep. Tatum Lee-Hahn, a Ness City Republican, suggested that backing Israel is necessary for "God's blessing and favor in your life.

The other resolution, approved 27-11 in the Senate and 79-38 in the House, largely along party lines, comes with Republicans, business groups and companies pushing Kelly to end an extra $300 a week in unemployment benefits. Kelly has said she is reviewing the issue.

Republicans argued the extra aid creates a perverse incentive that keeps unemployed workers from accepting jobs, hindering businesses and hurting the economy. Democrats said the move would hurt struggling families, and people aren't taking jobs because of concerns about child care and COVID-19. They also suggested that workers are benefitting from employers having to raise wages to attract them.

Meanwhile, the Legislature's top eight leaders, six currently Republicans, postponed until Friday a decision on extending a state of emergency for the coronavirus pandemic. It expires Friday, and Kelly must get top lawmakers' approval to retain it.

Lawmakers did not override Kelly's recent vetoes of GOP legislation on health insurance and compensating businesses for pandemic losses.

Also, GOP senators picked Sen. Larry Alley, of Winfield, as their new majority leader. Republicans had ousted Sen. Gene Suellentrop, of Wichita, as majority leader in April after he was charged with drunken driving and a felony charge of attempting to elude law enforcement for driving the wrong way on a highway in Topeka.

Alley, a retired aircraft manufacturing planner, was first elected to the Senate in 2016. He had been serving as assistant majority leader and had handled most of Suellentrop's duties after Suellentrop's arrest in mid-March.

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Andy Tsubasa Field contributed to this report.

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Follow John Hanna on Twitter: https://twitter.com/apjdhanna
WASHINGTON (AP)  Karine Jean-Pierre on Wednesday became the first openly gay woman to deliver the White House press briefing and only the second Black woman in history to take on the role.

Jean-Pierre, the White House principal deputy press secretary, had briefed reporters aboard Air Force One, but Wednesday marked her first time before the lectern for a televised briefing.

Its a real honor to be standing here today, Jean-Pierre told reporters, when asked about her historic turn. Clearly the president believes that representation matters, and I appreciate him giving me this opportunity.

Judy Smith, who served as deputy press secretary to President George H.W. Bush in 1991, was the first Black woman to take on the role.

Jean-Pierre is seen as a potential successor to current White House press secretary Jen Psaki, who has publicly said she only intends to serve in the role for about a year, and Wednesdays appearance was seen as an audition of sorts for the job. Jean-Pierre fields press requests and makes frequent appearances for the Biden administration on cable news.

Today is a big day in the press office and @WhiteHouse. My partner in truth--@KJP46 is doing her first full briefing from the podium today making history in her own right. But doing her real justice means also recognizing her talent, her brilliance and her wonderful spirit, Psaki tweeted.

On Wednesday, like Psaki and generations of White House spokespeople before her, Jean-Pierre leaned heavily on a binder full of prepared notes and statements, as she fielded questions on topics including the Tokyo Olympics and the origins of the coronavirus pandemic.

Jean-Pierre, who was born in Martinique to Haitian emigrants and grew up in New York City, has spoken publicly about how her own experiences as an immigrant have informed her lengthy career in politics.

I am everything that Donald Trump hates, she said in a video for progressive organization MoveOn in 2018. Im a Black woman, Im gay, I am a mom. Both my parents were born in Haiti.

During the 2020 campaign, Jean-Pierre was now-Vice President Kamala Harris chief of staff. She previously worked on both of Barack Obamas presidential campaigns, ultimately serving as national deputy battleground states director for the 2012 campaign. In between, Jean-Pierre worked in the Obama administration, serving as the White House liaison to the Labor Department and later as regional director in the White House Office of Political Affairs.

Jean-Pierre is one of a handful of potential Psaki successors, a list that includes Symone Sanders, Harris chief spokesperson, who has tamped down speculation over her interest in the role. Sanders showed support for Jean-Pierre on Wednesday with a tweet offering her congratulations.

I will be raising my coffee cup during the WH press briefing in celebration of representation, aptitude and brilliance. The ancestors are proud, she tweeted.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP)  Abortion rights supporters on Wednesday filed a lawsuit challenging Arkansas' near-total ban on the procedure that's part of an effort by conservatives to force the U.S. Supreme Court to review the Roe v. Wade decision.

The American Civil Liberties Union and Planed Parenthood asked a federal judge to strike down the new law, which takes effect July 28, and bans all abortions except those to protect the life of the mother.

The groups filed the lawsuit on behalf of Little Rock Family Planning Services, a Little Rock abortion clinic, and Planned Parenthood's Little Rock health center. The groups are also representing a doctor who works at the Planned Parenthood clinic.

Absent an order from this Court, plaintiffs will be forced to turn away patients seeking abortion care as of that date," the lawsuit said. This will inflict immediate and irreparable harm upon plaintiffs patients by blatantly violating their constitutional rights under the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, threatening their health and well-being, and forcing them to continue their pregnancies against their will."

The U.S. Supreme Court earlier this month agreed to take up a case about whether states can ban abortions before a fetus can survive outside the womb, a showdown that could dramatically alter nearly 50 years of rulings the procedure.

That case, which focuses on a Mississippi law banning abortion 15 weeks into a woman's pregnancy, probably will be argued in the fall, with a decision likely in the spring of 2022.

Republican lawmakers in Arkansas and several other states enacted new abortion bans even before that case was announced, encouraged by former President Donald Trump's appointments to the high court.

Arkansas was one of 14 states where near-total bans were introduced this year. The bans were pushed by Republicans who want to force the U.S. Supreme Court to revisit its 1973 Roe v. Wade decision legalizing abortion nationwide. A similar ban was signed into law in Oklahoma.

More than 530 abortion restrictions have been introduced so far this year in statehouses across the country, the ACLU and Planned Parenthood said.

Arkansas anti-abortion politicians know that Roe v. Wade is still the law of the land, but they passed this abortion ban anyway, which triggers a direct challenge to Roe, Meagan Burrows, staff attorney at the ACLU Reproductive Freedom Project, said in a statement.

A South Carolina law enacted this year that bans abortions six weeks into a woman's pregnancy has been temporarily blocked due to a court challenge.

Arkansas is the most prolife state in the nation, and I will continue to defend laws that will protect the life of the unborn from radical organizations like the ACLU and Planned Parenthood that promote the killing of unborn children," Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge, a Republican, said in a statement.

Republican Gov. Asa Hutchinson signed Arkansas' ban into effect despite concerns about its constitutionality and its lack of rape and incest exceptions.

I have not reviewed the lawsuit, but I expect the constitutional challenge to be decided ultimately by the U.S. Supreme Court," Hutchinson said in a statement Wednesday. I signed this bill into law expressing my view that it would have been preferred to have included exceptions for rape and incest in the law.

Arkansas this year enacted 20 abortion restrictions, the most in a single state since Louisiana adopted that many in 1978, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research organization that supports reproductive rights.

Arkansas already had some of the strictest abortion measures in the country and two years ago Hutchinson signed into law a measure that would ban the procedure if the Roe decision was overturned. Another measure Hutchinson signed in 2019 banning abortions after 18 weeks of pregnancy is on hold due to a legal challenge.
TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP)  Facing Taiwans largest outbreak of the pandemic and looking for rapid virus test kits, the mayor of the islands capital did what anyone might do: He Googled it.

If you dont know, and you try to know something, please check Google, Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je quipped.

Praised for its success at keeping the virus away for more than a year, Taiwan had until May recorded just 1,128 cases and 12 deaths. But the number of locally transmitted cases started growing this month and it soon became clear that the central government was ill prepared not only to contain the virus, but to even detect it on a large scale due to a lack of investment in rapid testing.

That left officials like Ko scrambling to catch up as the number of new infections climbed to some 300 a day. Kos search put him in contact with six local companies who make rapid tests and his government was soon able to set up four rapid testing sites in a district that had emerged as a virus hotspot.

Rapid tests, experts say, are a critical tool in catching the virus in its early days. The alternative that Taiwan has been relying on  tests that have to be sent out to a lab for processing  has led to backlogs that may be obscuring the true extent of the outbreak.

You want to identify those infected cases as soon as possible, to contain the spread, said Ruby Huang, a professor in the medical college at National Taiwan University. And then youre basically running against time.

With so few cases, Taiwan had been a bubble of normalcy for most of the pandemic. Schools stayed open, people went to bars and restaurants, and the islands economy was among the few globally that saw positive growth.

Its success was built largely on strict border controls that primarily allowed in only citizens and long-term residents, who then faced mandatory two-week quarantines.

From time to time it found small clusters of infections and stamped them out through contact tracing and quarantines. Last month authorities found a cluster involving pilots from the state-owned China Airlines.

Stopping the virus this time would prove difficult, in part because under government policy pilots were only required to quarantine for three-days and did not need a negative test to get out of quarantine. Soon employees at a quarantine hotel where China Airlines flight crew stayed started getting sick  and so did their family members.

The virus had escaped quarantine and was spreading locally, mostly in Taipei and surrounding areas.

The government in Taiwan  where only about 1% of the population have been vaccinated  responded by ordering a lockdown, closing schools and switching offices to remote work or rotating shifts. Contact tracers identified 600,000 people that needed to quarantine themselves.

The biggest roadblock has been testing.

Government policy throughout the pandemic has been to rely on polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, tests, which are seen as the gold standard for diagnosis but must be processed using special machines in a lab. The government has not encouraged rapid tests, which are quicker and cheaper but potentially less accurate.

In and around Taipei, labs have been working overtime in recent weeks but are still struggling to process all the samples.

Tim Tsai said on just a single day last week his lab in New Taipei city received 400 samples from hospitals to test. He said his lab was only able to process about 120 samples a day.

Our medical technicians, they were leaving work at midnight, he said.

The government's Central Epidemic Command Center said in a statement that all 141 government designated labs have the capacity to process 30,000 PCR tests a day. However, it declined to provide the actual number of tests being processed.

It said it was continuing to work with relevant labs to research ways to accelerate and expand our capacity, without impacting accuracy.

Throughout the pandemic the government has maintained there are few benefits to mass testing, with the health minister saying last year that public funds and medical resources could better be used elsewhere.

The government instead has emphasized a strategy of contact tracing and isolation and only testing those with symptoms and direct contact with someone infected.

This is more efficient, effective and accurate, said Chen Chien-jen, the islands former vice president, who led the pandemic response last year before retiring.

Experts say such a strategy may have been appropriate when case numbers were low, but needed to change as infections spread.

You should have a two-pronged approach. You do the quarantine, but you should do massive widespread testing," said K. Arnold Chan, an expert on drug and medical products regulation at National Taiwan University. "For whatever reason the government is completely unprepared.

Taiwanese companies developed rapid tests for COVID-19 early last year, but the majority of their sales have been overseas.

Back then the CDC didnt support rapid tests, and there was no epidemic, said Edward Ting, a spokesperson for Panion and BF Biotech, which has had its own test since March 2020. We tried to sell, but it wasnt possible.

The central government finally appears to be coming around, with the health minister last week asking local governments to set up rapid testing sites. Ting said his company has since had calls from governments across the island asking about its tests.

The central government also is now offering subsidies for labs to buy new machines to process PCR tests.

Aaron Chen, whose company developed a machine that can process up to 2,000 PCR test samples every four hours, said he has diverted two machines bound for export to be used locally instead.

Ko, the mayor of Taipei, said his city has purchased 250,000 rapid test kits. Though the city is still relying on PCR tests to confirm actual cases, Ko said the rapid tests better allow him to monitor the situation on the ground.

Ko, a former surgeon, said it was important to be open to change.

Theres a phrase in Chinese: One thrives in times of calamity and perishes in soft times. Because when youre very successful you are not forced to improve. Only when you fail, then are you forced to improve, said Ko. We were too successful in the past year.
Not many football coaches can say that theyre coached alongside their son. Even fewer yet can call themselves a Hall-of-Famer.
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Gateway to Success class of 2021 graduates

Jeff Kiessel / Jeff Kiessel | Daily News Photos Gateway to Success Academy senior Sammara Berridge is congratulated following Wednesday's graduation ceremony. G2S had 12 graduates in its class this year. Jeff Kiessel / JEFF KIESSEL | Daily News Photos Gateway to Success Academy senior Brianna Duncan gives the student address at Wednesdays graduation ceremony held outside at the school. Jeff Kiessel / Jeff Kiessel | Daily News Gateway to Success Academy graduates walk back to the school doors during the recessional to close the graduation Wednesday. Kaitlin and Lori Bowen along with Greysen Sedgeman watch the graduation ceremony from their vehicle. Greysens mom, Krystal graduated from G2S on Wednesday. Jeff Kiessel / Jeff Kiessel | Daily News Gateway to Success Academy senior received gifts from the staff during graduation, the gifts included a photo album and a letter written to each graduate. Krystal Sedgeman received her diploma from Gateway to Success Academy board member Vic Burwell. Gateway to Success Academy senior Brianna Duncan smiles during the processional Wednesday. Superintendent Jamie Bandstra addresses students at the G2S graduation Wednesday.

With a cool breeze blowing and under cloudy skies, the Gateway to Success class of 2021 gathered to receive their diplomas.

On Wednesday evening, G2S conducted its fifth graduation ceremony. The 11 graduates exited the school donning black gowns and silver stoles and took their seats in the parking lot.

Superintendent Jamie Bandstra welcomed and thanked those in attendance to watch the class of 2021 graduate. After some announcements, Bandstra began the ceremony.

Weve gathered to recognize the amazing accomplishments of this group of young men and women, he said. Theyve worked hard towards their goal of graduation for a long time and tonight it finally arrived.

After the welcome, graduate Brianna Duncan came onto the stage to give the student address. Although she said she was nervous, Duncan presented her speech with confidence. In her speech, she talked about how 2020 and 2021 marked the graduating class.

She thanked the teachers, who she said have taught her more than just textbook material. Theyve taught her life skills she will use for the rest of her life. Duncan concluded her speech by saying although the class faced hard times because of the pandemic, it is important to have optimism, faith and hope.

So I leave you with this fellow graduates, parents, and teachers: fear is only one emotion among many, it should not rule us, only caution us, Duncan said. We graduated during a global pandemic, and if that isnt one of the coolest things, I dont know what is.

The ceremony then moved on to special recognitions of the graduates. For the first time, G2S presented the All Around Senior Award. The award recognizes a graduates accomplishments for comprehensive achievements, encompassing disciplines and academics, project-based learning, leadership and integrity. The recipient of the first All Around Senior Award was Justus Ami Bromley.

In addition to their gowns and stoles, some graduates wore different colored cords. These cords were another special recognition. The gold cords reflected accomplishments in project-based learning. The graduates wearing these cords were Riley Alailima, Sammara Berridge, Jaxen Golnick, Taylor Guthrie and Devon Padgett. The green cords reflected dual enrollment. This cord was worn by Victoria LeGault, who received seven college credits. The orange cords reflected accomplishments in career and technical education. These cords were worn by Bromley and Duncan. Bromley and Duncan wore gold cords as well.

The diplomas were presented by members of the school board. After this, Bandstra came back onto the stage to deliver a speech. He said this speech was special to him, as this would be his final graduation with G2S.

Here, he talked about strength and how it can bring people success. A quote he mentioned was the strength of the pack is the wolf and the strength of the wolf is the pack.

It just really emphasizes the idea of the power of your individuality, but also the importance of community and other people around you, Bandstra said.

He then instructed the graduates to grab packets taped underneath their chairs. These packets held photo books and notes from G2S staff detailing the strengths of the graduates. Bandstra said the photo books and the notes are encouragement for the graduates for when things get tough. The gradates can look back at the photos and notes to remember the strength they all have inside. Bandstra also challenged the graduates to use their strength to become the best versions of themselves.

I want you to take those strengths and those I want you to use them to make the world a better place, he said.

Graduate LeGault said shes glad to have graduated from G2S.

The teachers have all been really nice, she said. I love the staff here.

Graduate Alailima said it feels good to have graduated from G2S and that her time at the academy was interesting. Her parents, Sarah and Birdsall Alailima are extremely proud of her.

Were just really happy and overjoyed at the whole occasion, Birdsall said.

Bandstra said its cool to see how far the graduates come by the time they graduate.

Its just really about celebrating their accomplishments and so thats really what Im focused on, he said.

Some of the graduates were teary-eyed when they rose from their seats for the turning of the tassels. As they turned the tassel from right to left, the clouds parted and the sun shone on the graduates.

The ceremony concluded at 8 p.m.
A lot of great moments and performances came out of the spring season of sports, and they ar
Actor Siddhanth Kapoor plans to have an online poker game to raise money for Covid relief. He says he is looking to associate with an institution where the money can go directly to the relief of the victims.

"I hope we can defeat this virus and it's not one man's battle. The entire community has to come together. This is a hard time. Poker high does online gaming and we are looking to have a fundraiser. We are looking to associate with an institution where the money can go directly to the relief of the victims," Siddhanth, brother of actress Shraddha Kapoor, said.
The forced landing on Sunday has been sharply condemned by members of NATO as well as the UN Security Council, reports dpa news agency.

Minsk, May 27 (IANS) Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has defended a decision to force the landing of a Ryanair passenger plane with a dissident journalist on board.

"I acted lawfully by protecting people, according to all international rules," Lukashenko told Parliament in Minsk on Wednesday.

Authorities used Sunday's landing to have dissident Belarusian journalist Roman Protasevich arrested at the airport in Minsk.

Protasevich is a "terrorist", added Lukashenko, who said the 26-year-old blogger was planning a "bloody uprising" in Belarus.

"There was a terrorist on board the plane," he said, claiming that it was his country's sovereign right to detain its own citizens.

Lukashenko initially said, without elaborating, that Belarus had received information that there was an explosive device on the plane.

Therefore, he said, the plane, which was on its way to Lithuania from Greece, was diverted to Minsk with the assistance of a fighter jet.

"That the plane was forced to land by a MiG-29 fighter jet is an absolute lie," said Lukashenko.

Belarus acted for safety reasons, he said, because the plane flew over the country's nuclear power plant.

The European Union has imposed new sanctions on the power apparatus in Belarus in the wake of the action, including a landing ban for the country's airlines and sanctions on the leadership.

NATO condemned the action on Wednesday.

The body's North Atlantic Council said the "unacceptable act seriously violated the norms governing civil aviation and endangered the lives of the passengers and crew".

Protasevich and his partner, Sofia Sapega, should be released and there should be an "urgent independent investigation", it added..

Many current and former members of the UN Security Council have also condemned the forced landing of a passenger flight.

"It constitutes a new and extremely dangerous phase in the Belarusian authorities' campaign of repression against its own people," said a statement from the UN representation of Estonia, supported by France, Ireland, Belgium, Germany, Norway, Britain and the US.

Together they demanded an investigation into the incident and Protasevich's release.

A joint statement by all 15 members of the Security Council failed, among other reasons due to Russia's opposition.

Belarus threatened to react to the latest sanctions with ones of its own, though Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko said the decision would not be made hastily.

"We suggest soberly thinking again before you go down the slippery slope of an economic war in which there will be no winners," he said, adding that the measures would be painful but leaving open whether they would apply to goods or oil and gas transport to Europe.

More than 100 people were on board the Ryanair flight that was forced to land, including Protasevich and his partner.

Both were arrested and their fate remain uncertain.

Poland has decided to close its airspace for planes operated by Belarusian carriers, government spokesperson Piotr Mueller said on Wednesday.

The website Flightradar showed an aircraft of the Belarusian airline Belavia flying several loops on the route from Minsk to Barcelona before entering Polish airspace and finally turning back towards Minsk.

According to the airline, France had revoked a previously issued overflight permit.

Attempts to take alternative routes had been unsuccessful, the airline said in Minsk.

Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte of neighbouring Lithuania has expressed concerns, saying: "This is an unpredictable regime from which you can expect anything, and you have to be prepared for anything. "

Lukashenko made other claims about Protasevich's past, including that he had fought on the side of government forces in eastern Ukraine and had "a lot of experience as a mercenary".

Protasevich had reported from Ukraine in 2014, when the war between pro-Russian forces and the central government in Kiev was breaking out.

However, it has never been proved that he engaged in combat.

--IANS

ksk/
Member (Health) in NITI Aayog and the chair of National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for Covid-19 (NEGVAC), Dr Vinod K. Paul, made the announcement on behalf of the government while clearing several myths on India's Covid-19 vaccination programme doing the rounds.

New Delhi: The Central government on Thursday announced that Covid-19 vaccine trials on children in the country would begin soon.

Clarifying one such myth that "Centre is not taking any step to vaccinate children", Paul said: "As of now, no country in the world is giving vaccines to children. Also, WHO has no recommendation on vaccinating children."

Paul, however, said that there have been studies about safety of vaccines in children, which have been encouraging.

"Trials in children in India are also going to begin soon. However, vaccinating children should not be decided on the basis of panic in WhatsApp groups and because some politicians want to play politics," Paul said.

Paul further said that the decision in this regard is taken by our scientists after adequate data is available based on trials.

He also made it clear that the Centre is allotting enough vaccines to the states in a transparent manner as per agreed guidelines and they are also being informed in advance of the vaccine availability.

Paul also announced that vaccine availability is going to increase in near future and much more supply would be possible.

"In the non-Government of India channel, states are getting 25 per cent of the doses and private hospitals are getting 25 per cent doses. However, the hiccups and issues faced by the people in the administration of these 25 per cent doses by the states leave a lot to be desired. The behaviour of some of our leaders who, in spite of full knowledge of the facts on vaccine supply, appear on TV daily and create panic among the people is very unfortunate. This is not the time to play politics. We need everyone to unite in this fight."

He also said that three other companies will start production of Covaxin apart from enhancing Bharat Biotech's own plants, which have increased from 1 to 4.

"Covaxin production by Bharat Biotech is being increased from under 1 crore per month to 10 crore month by October."

Additionally, the three PSUs will together aim to produce up to 4 crore doses by December.

With constant encouragement of the government, Serum Institute is ramping up Covishield production of 6.5 crore doses per month to 11.0 crore doses per month, Paul said.

"The Government is also ensuring in partnership with Russia that Sputnik will be manufactured by six companies coordinated by Dr Reddy's. The Union Government is supporting efforts of Zydus Cadila, BioE as well Gennova for their respective indigenous vaccines through liberal funding under Covid Suraksha scheme as also the technical support at national laboratories."

Paul said that development of Bharat Biotech's single dose intranasal vaccine is proceeding well with Central government funding, and it could be a game-changer for the world.

The estimate of production of over 200 crore doses by our vaccine industry by the end of 2021 is the result of such efforts and unflinching support and partnership.
As the United States prepares to pull out the entirety of its remaining 2,500 troops from Afghanistan (Liptak, 2021)  a move fast being followed by NATO allies in the war-tattered nation (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation [NATO], 2021a, 2021b)  the onus for security and stability will fall on the regions neighbours.

However, this is a window of opportunity in which India can lead the way. It will not be an easy or simple process. As the Taliban become increasingly assertive in the ongoing peace talks and potentially set to govern the country again someday, it is vital that New Delhi carves a channel for diplomatic dealings.

So far there have been some evident efforts in that direction. Indian officials are taking an increasingly visible role in the various meetings concerning Afghanistan's future, of which Taliban members have been party. New Delhi will attend the ten-day Istanbul conference starting this week (Aljazeera, 2021; Did Press Agency, 2021).

Of course, India's history with the Taliban  for instance when it was poised at the Kabul helm from 1996 to 2001  has been a turbulent one. This is not surprising given the Taliban's protracted policy of directly and indirectly supporting Pakistani terrorist groups, a policy which has resulted among other things in various skirmishes in Jammu and Kashmir.

Moreover, it is hard to forget the painful hijacking of an Indian Airlines flight in 1999 by five Taliban gunmen, resulting in one passenger being fatally stabbed and 17 being wounded (Joshi, 2020). Allegations of involvement by the Pakistani ISI inflamed the aftermath.

And certainly, the Taliban's perchance for violence and the ruthless targeting of both Afghan forces and civilians in recent years reminds all the sobering reality that their overarching tactical approach remains unchanged. Furthermore and of course, India's leaders cannot enthusiastically align with a political faction that ideologically limits the education and vocational opportunities for women and endorses extremist values that amount to violence and terrorism.

The diplomatic dance with the Taliban must therefore be delicate, but not dismissive. Uncomfortable facts are facts nonetheless, and India will need to work with the reality on the ground if  or when  the Taliban resume a potent palace position.

On the plus side, the Taliban's top brass has not  for some two decades  made explicit anti-New Delhi threats. They were swift to release, following quiet negotiations, the seven captured Indian engineers working in Afghanistan three years ago (The Economic Times, 2019).

The organisation has also refrained from sabotaging or attacking India-backed development projects in Afghanistan  all of which should be perceived as positive tools for the communications arsenal. The success in this area may have stemmed in large part from New Delhi's non-militarized Afghan strategy.

Rather than bolstering Kabul's security endeavours with boots on the ground, India's lawmakers instead opted for a "soft power" approach  focusing its support spending on economic and infrastructure projects, as well as community-centric development and humanitarian aid. The war-splattered nation is the second-largest beneficiary of Indian assistance (Vivek, 2017), shoring up a positive perception of India among much of the Afghan citizenry  a critical puzzle piece for future influence in the embattled nation.

Indeed, India has built up a robust portfolio of strategic interests in Afghanistan  despite its conflicts and volatility. A good example is the $100 million enlargement of the Chabahar port (Zee News, 2014) to serve as an import-export core between Central Asia and Afghanistan.

By opting to play a more pervasive part in Afghanistan, India also stands to secure even closer strategic ties to the United States. Washington has vowed to maintain its diplomatic and humanitarian endeavours in Afghanistan after the military exit, and President Biden has expressed a desire to see neighbouring nations play more prominent roles.

US State Department spokesperson Ned Price announced this month that Secretary Tony Blinken and his Indian counterpart S. Jaishankar would work together in advocating Afghanistan cohesion. This of course constitutes the outgrowth of a long and trusting affinity (The Week, 2021).

India can also coordinate its strategy and act as something of an interlocutor for all countries directly impacted by security affairs in Afghanistan  China, Russia, Pakistan, Turkey, Qatar and beyond.

Moreover, the likes of ISIS-K, the Da'esh outfit operating on Afghan terrain, appears relatively small at this stage; there are an estimated 19 other terrorist outfits thought to have a footprint inside the country (Arian, 2017). The Taliban may, in the end, turn out to be a necessary bastion against groups that pose threats both within and outside of Afghanistan's borders.

However, when assuming responsibilities, India must also be mindful of maintaining a healthy distance from Kabul's internal security affairs  ramping up developmental support with the goal of long-term stability while giving space for Afghanistan to grow and take shape on its own.

And even though it remains to be seen whether the Taliban takes an increased focus on the contentious Kashmir issue, Suhail Shaheen  a representative for the Taliban's political wing in Afghanistan  has previously taken to Twitter to espouse that in their policy it "is clear that it does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries." (Gupta, 2020)

For its part, another spokesperson for the Taliban's political wing  officially termed the Islamic Emirate  also pledged (Gupta 2021) this past week that its foreign policy would "seek positive relations with all its neighbours" on the basic principles of "respect and interaction" (Gupta, 2021).

"The Islamic Emirate does not allow anyone to use the soil of Afghanistan against another country, group or individual. It should also be made clear that the Islamic Emirate will never allow anyone to turn the soil of Afghanistan into an arena of proxy conflicts and disputes," spokesperson Muhammad Naeem Wardak told CNN News18's Manoj Gupta (Gupta, 2021), while also doubling down that they do not intend to interfere in any cross-border disputes, including those involving Pakistan.

"The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan calls on all to assist the Afghan people in achieving independence and freedom, in the light of the values of the people, in the establishment of an independent Islamic system and the reconstruction of the country."

Thus, while India cannot control who takes power in Kabul, it is in India's best interests to keep the door open to whomever wins the stakes in the months and years to come. Keeping in mind the Taliban's tenacity over the past two decades of US occupation, and the fact that it is a force which is here to stay.

(The writer a war crimes investigator and author of "Only Cry for the Living: Memos from Inside the ISIS Battlefield". The view expressed are peronal)

--IANS

arm/
The 79-year-old leader is now in isolation, along with his wife, the office said on Twitter, adding that they were "in good spirits", reports dpa news agency.

Windhoek, May 27 (IANS) The President of Namibia, Hage Geingob, has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, his office said on Thursday.

Also taking to the micro-blogging platform, the President said: "I thank you all for the kind well-wishes after our positive Covid-19 test. I vainly tried to thank you individually until my finger got tired from typing.

"@FirstLadyNam and I are holding on well and your outpouring of support for our recovery is truly appreciated. God Bless You."

To date, Namibia has recorded 53,603 confirmed Covid cases and 789 death.

--IANS

ksk/
New Delhi: American pharmaceutical giant Pfizer on Wednesday informs the Central government that its COVID-19 vaccine is suitable for all aged 12 and above and can be stored at 2-8 degrees for over a month, according to the sources.



They (Pfizer and the Indian government) also discussed about the indemnity protection against liabilities and asked for relaxations in some clauses before the company brings its COVID-19 vaccines to India, the sources added.

The drugmaker is likely to supply 50 million COVID-19 vaccines to India in 2021, albeit with a few conditions, sources told ANI on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Moderna, another pharmaceutical giant in the US, sources said, is expecting to start manufacturing its COVID-19 vaccines in India following an analysis with Cipla, a pharmaceutical company based in Mumbai, among other Indian firms.

Earlier, both drugmakers had allegedly refused to send vaccines directly to the state governments of Delhi and Punjab, claiming that they will only deal with the Central government.
Currently, a number of UAE residents hailing from the Indian subcontinent are stranded in their home countries due to flight bans while they were on vacations, said The Khaleej Times report.

Dubai, May 27 (IANS) Indian frontline workers, who have contributed to the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) fight against the Covid-19 pandemic and are currently stranded due to the ongoing flight ban, have urged authorities for their return to the Gulf nation, a media report said on Thursday.

Residents, including healthcare workers, were on vacations in their home country when the UAE announced a travel ban on passengers from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal.

"I'm an employee, a frontline nurse in Dubai, working for a reputed hospital and serving people. I went to India on vacation on April 1 after successfully fighting the second wave of Covid-19 in Dubai. But I'm unable to fly back to Dubai," Sandhya, a registered nurse, told Khaleej Times.

Sandhya added that said she might lose her job if she doesn't return to the UAE on time.

Sanjeev Kumar, another UAE resident who works for a medical centre, is also stuck in India due to the flight ban.

Since Kumar received the Covid-19 jab in Dubai, he urged the UAE authorities to allow those stranded residents who are vaccinated to return.

He requested that work permit holders should be allowed to return to the UAE because their families survive on their monthly salaries.

In the wake of the devastating second wave of the pandemic in India, the UAE has first imposed the flight ban on April 25.

The ban has now been extended until June 14.

--IANS

ksk/
Hyderabad: Demanding to fulfill the promises made to the doctors, the Telangana Senior Doctors Association alongside Junior doctors have unanimously taken a decision to boycott all the Covid related duties from May 26 except for ICU cases and Critical care units.



Speaking to ANI, Dr Anirudh from District Hospital King Koti, said, "They have decided to boycott all the Covid related electives duties except for the ICU cases and Critical Care Units until all their demands have been fulfilled. "The reason why we have decided to boycott our duties is that the government is not fulfilling our demands that we have been putting on the tables for the last 6 months."

"We have appealed the Government for separate exclusive Covid hospitals for doctors and their family members who are infected with Covid 19. Though they have given assurance regarding the same, none have been put into implementation till date," he added.

He further demanded the incentives that have been promised by the government themselves.

"Though a promise has been made to provide incentives of 10 per cent to the doctors, nothing has been provided till date, and further there has been no increment of 15 per cent to the doctors," said Dr Anirudh.

He further said that they haven't even been receiving salaries for the last three months.

"Without getting our salaries on time, without receiving any increment, and without having any incentives, how does the government expect us to work in such a pandemic situation," he said.

He further demanded an ex gratia to the family members of the doctor who lost their lives on Covid duty.

Further speaking to ANI, Dr. Nabi of King Koti Hospital said, "We have submitted a representation to the Director of Medical Education (DME) two weeks back requesting for ex gratia to the family members of medical staff who have lost their lives on Covid duties. Further, we have mentioned about the incentives that have been promised to us and further about the increment of salaries."

"Despite appealing to the government to fulfill our demands, the government has turned a deaf ear towards our demands and that is why we have decided to boycott all Covid related duties except for ICU cases and Critical care units," he further said.

The doctors mentioned that the rest of the Covid services including ICU and Critical Care Units will also be boycotted for May 27 if their demands are not looked into.
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KUALA LUMPUR, May 27 (Sin Chew Daily) -- Lina Abdullah is a strong mother for her nine children, five of whom dyslexics.



Lina, 48, a leukemia patient herself, sews bags, tissue boxes, face masks, water tumbler bags, hand phone bags and others to make a living.

Prior to that, she was selling herbs before she was diagnosed with leukemia.

After losing her job, she tried to look for other jobs but to no avail.

Someone suggested that Lina learn to sew.



Lina and her husband are from East Malaysia seeking a better life in the city. They settled down in Sabah Bernam.



Her 53-year-old husband is an odd-job worker while her nine children are aged between nine and 26.

Lina's eldest daughter has been diagnosed as a dyslexic and a hyperactive child.

Her daughter used to cut her clothes and had difficulty getting along with others.

Lina's clothes used to be "redesigned" by her daughter with scissors.

She used to be sad and feeling hopeless until a specialist told her to change her perception.



Lina did not only had to deal with her eldest daughter but her other children seemed to be testing her too

"My children are God's gift to me," said Lina, despite the hardship.



Subsequently, she joined Sewing World Gallery in Subang Jaya to learn sewing, a place which is 120km away from her home.

Sewing World Gallery is teaching low-income group sewing skills free of charge and is providing a platform for them to sell their products to improve their lives.

The trainees are supplied with sewing machines at home too.



Lina was under tremendous stress when she was learning how to sew as she felt tired easily being a leukemia patient.



She also has a child diagnosed with leukemia and she has to travel to hospital regularly to pick up the medication.

Sewing World Gallery sells products sewn by Lina at http://sewingworld.com.my under Lina Tailor.

Besides sewing, Lina also sells greens and flowers planted by her whenever she takes a break from sewing.




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PennDOT provides overview, hears residents comments

Proposed bridge tolling headlines PennDOT town hall

bdestefan / PennDOT/Michael Baker International A rendering by PennDOT of the proposed North Fork bridges on Interstate 80 in Jefferson County looking toward Walter Dick Memorial Park.

HARRISBURG  Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) officials hosted a telephone town hall Tuesday evening, providing an overview before taking questions and comments from residents as part of its ongoing Pathways program draft study exploring transportation funding options.

According to the Planning and Environmental Linkages (PEL) study, bridge tolling is a potential near-term solution to help address PennDOTs budget deficit, which is currently reported to be $8.1 billion for infrastructure repairs. The proposed tolling would help pay for rehabilitation projects of major bridges, with nine candidate projects being identified earlier this year through PennDOTs Pathways Major Bridge P3 Initiative.

The North Fork bridges on Interstate 80 in Jefferson County and the Canoe Creek bridges on I-80 in Clarion County are part of the proposal. The North Fork bridges are dual structures (one eastbound and one westbound) crossing over the North Fork Redbank Creek and Water Plant Road in Brookville Borough and Pine Creek Township.

If the initiative moves forward, tolls are anticipated to be between $1 and $2 per trip, with the possibility of tolls beginning in 2023, but varying per project.

Tolling would be all electronic using E-Z pass or license plate billing, and all toll funds would go back to the bridge for construction, maintenance and operation, PennDOT said.

PennDOT Secretary Yassmin Gramian opened the town hall explaining why PennDOT is pursuing alternative funding methods.

One of our major, immediate needs is funding for our highway and bridge program, Gramian said. Our largest source of revenue comes from state and federal gas taxes, which make up a combined 74 percent of highway and bridge funding. We are dependent on gas taxes. However, as passenger vehicles become more fuel efficient and all-electric vehicle technology continues to evolve, we are seeing reduced revenue at the gas pump.

Our deficit gets worse every year. Our current highway and bridge funding gap is $8.1 billion, and over the next 10 years it is projected to grow to $12.6 billion if we do not identify alternative funding mechanisms.

Ken McClain, PennDOTs Alternative Funding Director, then explained the ongoing study before fielding the majority of questions from participants.

An early finding of the PEL was that bridge tolling could be a feasible, near-term solution, McClain said. Those bridges are anywhere between 50-68 years of age right now. It doesnt matter how well you maintain those structures, when they get to that age, they start to deteriorate a lot faster than a new bridge. We need to start looking at outside-the-box ways to fund the replacement of some of these major infrastructure assets we have.

McClain also described how the tolling process would work as a P3 agreement.

We would do this through a public-private partnership, he said. That partnership would invite private equity to invest in Pennsylvania infrastructure. So they would in essence loan us the money to build these bridges in the short term, rather than waiting on funds to become available. We would pay that financing back over a 30-year period.

To repay the funds, bridge tolls could be in place for three decades or more, according to McClain.

Were looking between 30-35 years at each one of these bridges, McClain said. Like a mortgage, youre borrowing that money now to replace that asset and then youre paying those monies back over a 30-year time period.

One of about 10 residents able to comment during the hour-long session asked about the possibility of tolling Interstate 80 as a whole, and not just certain bridges.

Right now, tolling Interstate 80 in its entirety is not being looked at, McClain said. There are actually four individual bridges that are located along the I-80 corridor that would be tolled as part of this (Pathways) program. Those structures that are targeted on I-80 are coming to the end of their useful life cycle.

Although proposed bridge tolling consumed much of the conversation, McClain did briefly detail other funding options being evaluated by PennDOT, including managed lanes, congestion pricing, corridor tolling, mileage-based user fees, fees and tax increases.

After reviewing and addressing comments, a final planning PEL study will be published, McClain explained. Following the publishing of a final study, potential projects for near- and medium-term funding solutions will be evaluated while longer-term solutions will be studied forward.

As part of the study, an equity analysis will be conducted that focuses on diversion impacts to local communities of vehicles avoiding tolls along with financial impacts of paying or managing a toll. An environmental review is also part of the process for each potential project.

The Pathways program has been met with opposition from local legislators, with many supporting Senate Bill 382 which would reform the P3 statute and void the PennDOT Pathways Major Bridge P3 Initiative. The bill is now before the House Transportation Committee.

Although there are some concerns about this program from the legislative side, we do have the authority to move forward with it, Gramian said Tuesday. Thats why were having these conversations, to make sure this is part of the process. Its a new program, obviously, it will be faced with some challenges.

Citizens can continue to comment on the program through June 1:
Industry-super-linked ME Bank has been hit with a criminal lawsuit by the corporate regulator after thousands of home loan customers were incorrectly charged interest on mortgages.

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission announced on Thursday it has launched a criminal lawsuit against the boutique lender for breaches of the National Credit Code and Australian Securities and Investments Commission Act.

ME Bank has been hit with Federal Court charges. Credit:Ken Irwin

The breaches allegedly occurred between September 2016 and September 2018 and are unrelated to the mortgage redraw bungle, which sparked customer outrage and forced the bank to backflip on a policy that left thousands of home owners without access to cash during the pandemic.

One source at the bank, who asked not to be named as they are not an official spokesperson, said ASICs charges were related to about 3700 customers being over-charged interest during an upgrade of ME Banks core technology platform.
COVID-19 vaccine makers stand to gain as much as $US190 billion ($245 billion) in sales this year if they hit production targets, with two Chinese companies accounting for at least a quarter of the revenue.

The estimate from science analytics company Airfinity sheds new light on how nine companies including US-based Pfizer and Moderna, along with Chinas Sinovac Biotech and Sinopharm Group, will share in the market for COVID shots. Production constraints and shortfalls will likely bring the final 2021 sales numbers closer to a range that tops out at $US115 billion, the research firm said.

Developed in record time, COVID-19 vaccines help save lives - and generate big sales for their producers. Credit:Bloomberg

Developed in record time and often heavily supported by government funds, COVID-19 vaccines are helping countries save lives, restore societies and avert trillions of dollars in potential economic costs. Access to the doses for many lower-income countries, however, remains hampered, in part because of costs and wealthier countries cornering doses.

This was a market that didnt exist a year ago, Rasmus Bech Hansen, Airfinitys chief executive officer, said in an interview. These are very significant numbers, and its also why not all countries have been able to secure the necessary supplies; because it does require quite a sizable investment to vaccinate your whole population.
There are many reasons to love Mare of Easttown: Kate Winslets astonishingly lived-in performance; the space given for secondary characters to breathe in their own right; the gritty realism of its portrait of a small town in economic and moral crisis (even if the actual Easttown, Pennsylvania is in truth one of Americas more desirable places to live).

But theres another reason it has so captured the imagination of all who have seen it. Its a cracking whodunnit.

With the finale of the seven-part series to air next Monday, were left with quite the line-up of suspects in the murder of teenaged mother Erin McMenamin (Cailee Spaeny).

By the end of the penultimate episode, the finger seemed to be pointed squarely at one or other of her fathers cousins, Billy (Robbie Tann) or John (Joe Tippett) Ross, but there are plenty of other contenders too.
Catholic Archbishop of Sydney Anthony Fisher has called for an examination of what state schools were getting right and the humility to learn from them because they regularly perform better in academic results.

He said the Catholic school system had never had it so good in terms of funding, and should focus on using the resources well. Archbishop Fisher also warned Australia against turning its back on educating students in the humanities.

The Catholic Archbishop of Sydney, Anthony Fisher, is shocked at the resurgence of anti-Catholic sentiment Credit:Janie Barrett

[Failing to teach humanities] is intellectually and culturally impoverishing, Archbishop Fisher said in the inaugural Kathleen Burrow Research Institute lecture at Notre Dame University on Wednesday night.

Archbishop Fisher, a member of the Australian Bishops Commission for Catholic Education, said the Catholic system had been poorly supported by Australian governments for most of its 200-year history.
If we want to limit the damaging effects of climate change, the lights will have to go out at Australian coal-fired electricity generators soon. But when coal-fired generators do shut down, as we experienced this week, its imperative that the lights dont go out for Australian households too.

On Tuesday afternoon, close to 500,000 homes and businesses across Queensland and NSW were plunged into darkness for several hours. A fire at the Callide power station in central Queensland led to 700 megawatts of electricity capacity  equivalent to about 100,000 rooftop solar systems  going offline in just under 10 minutes.

The Callide power station, which a fire shut down on Tuesday.

The usual system checks and balances were unable to correct the problem before the states energy market was sent into disarray. Cascading outages saw energy generation in Queensland nearly halve in 30 minutes. Families and businesses were left without power in the middle of the working day. Schools, hospitals, traffic lights  little was spared.

How did this happen? The full picture isnt yet clear. One explanation is that transmission line connections tripped, leaving other generators unable to fill the gap Callide left behind. Regardless, the impact on prices was felt throughout the course of the day. In the early evening, Queensland wholesale electricity prices skyrocketed to $15,000 per MWh. They usually average about $50. Prices in parts of NSW were similarly high.
A public servant who allegedly rigged government contracts in return for lavish kickbacks has told a corruption inquiry that the complex, years-long scheme collected so much money he had to use a gun safe to store more than $1 million in cash.

Alexandre Dubois, 39, on Thursday told an Independent Commission Against Corruption inquiry that he manipulated the Roads and Maritime Services processes to favour specific contractors in return for cash, cars and debit cards.

An ICAC exhibit showing a safe used by Mr Dubois to store cash.

Mr Dubois and associate Craig Steyn allegedly spent close to 10 years subverting the RMS processes to award more than $41 million in contracts to companies owned by friends and family, the ICAC inquiry has heard.

The pair is accused of garnering more than $6.8 million in kickbacks from their scheme, which included a $1.5 million Ferrari and a handful of other luxury cars, a Rolex, jewellery, cash deliveries in shoeboxes, as well as school and travel fees.
It was perhaps inevitable that a serious COVID-19 outbreak would occur as we approach winter but its no less depressing that Melbourne and Victoria are once again returning to a state of limbo as authorities scramble to prevent any further spread.

Last winter, the state endured a 112-day lockdown, and we express our solidarity with ordinary Victorians who have done nothing wrong yet are having to put their lives on hold once more. With 10,000 primary and secondary contacts of infected cases identified, the Victorian government had little choice but to quickly impose a week-long lockdown. A failure to do so would have made contact tracing and suppression of the spread all but impossible. However, the Herald believes hard lockdowns should only be a last resort.

Making the situation worse is that without the aid of the federal governments JobKeeper wage subsidies, which ended in April, many Victorian workers and businesses will face dire financial straits if the seven-day lockdown is prolonged. The acute hardship they suffer should be in the minds of governments at all levels.

If Victoria had not gone into lockdown, state borders would inevitably have closed for a long time and the chances of the virus spreading around the country would have been very high.

Until a majority of the population is vaccinated, Australia should not abandon the strategy of suppression to the point of elimination adopted more than a year ago.
Ted Richards of Batemans Bay answers the call for popular names for pre-decimal currency (C8) with browns (pennies), bob or deener (one shilling), two-bob (two shillings, as in silly as a two-bob watch), dollar or possibly crown (five shillings), spin (five pound note), brick (10 pound note). A 20-pound note was a small fortune and no one I knew had ever seen one.

As a young bank teller in the days before decimal currency (C8), Frank Maundrell of Nundle notes there were lots of names for the cash, most unprintable. Frank concurs with Ted about many of the other names, adding that apart from in American movies, I do not recall hearing grand used until the Americanisation of our language became more entrenched. Ron Schaffer of Bellevue Hill contributes that guineas were one pound and one shilling each, or 21 shillings in all, making the maths impossible. Business people relied on books called ready reckoners with tables in them to help do all the calculations.

When life denies you pockets, adaptation is key. Odille Esmonde-Morgan of Glenorchy (Tas) explains: Not only do womens blouses not have pockets, but pants, skirts and dresses frequently dont either. Why do you think we lug handbags around? Marie Grady of Frenchs Forest suggests that Peter Berry get a man bag. My husband is 85 and takes his everywhere.

After suffering through decades of being presented with gender-specific clothing options that did not allow for practicality in any way, it is clear that the women of Column 8 had very little sympathy for any man howling about the disappearance of pockets from the design of their shirts (C8). Summing up the mood, Joy Cooksey of Harrington says that politeness prevents a suggestion as to where pocket-less blokes should put their pens, sunglasses and raffle tickets.

While Roma McDonald wondered who was sitting in a small office coming up with new names like the Centre for National Resilience (C8), Maralyn Lawson of Greenwich has an alternate take. Perhaps it is someone in a very large and well equipped office?
Daley redemption shows Labors lack of depth Resurrection was the most apt of descriptions for the reinstatement of Michael Daley to the opposition front bench as he surely knew he was dead in the water regarding any hopes of his party once again choosing him as leader (Daley miracle: McKay resurrects former leader, May 27). Being a political spent force, he should quietly walk away, but if he is determined to stay on, he will make an excellent addition to what will become known as the new shallowopposition cabinet. Trevor Somerville, Illawong Alexandra Smith convincingly puts the logical proposition that as NSW opposition leader, neither McKay nor Minns are viable, and that a third uniting leader is essential (Two contenders, neither a winner, May 27). This NSW ALP leadership stoush is actually good news for NSW politics as a strong opposition should be able to land some powerful blows. McKay is obviously a powerful factional warrior but politically tone deaf. Her strident support for coal-mining in the Upper Hunter byelection was the icing on the cake for the Coalition, both state and federal. By destabilising the federal ALP opposition as well, federal ALP member for Hunter Joel Fitzgibbon is now not only unable to identify the dead canaries at the bottom of the pit, but hes denying they exist. Alan Carruthers, Artarmon Michael Daley: a word of advice in your new role. Dont attend any community events, but if you must go, confine your remarks to the weather. Even that can be contentious (climate change, anyone?), so just keep your mouth shut and smile. Joan Brown, Orange Many industries, banks, and a sizeable proportion of the electorate see climate change bringing an end to our reliance on fossil fuels and ushering in an era of climate-friendly reliance on renewable energy sources (Labor urged to change direction and focus on households, wages, May 27). Therefore its puzzling how federal Labor favours gas-fired power to firm up renewables while opposing the Hunter regions proposed gas plant. Either you are in or you are out. You cant have it both ways. Fred Jansohn, Rose Bay

The ALP should worry less about their own policies and expose the many untruths, misdirections, outright lies and incompetence of this government. A Federal Integrity Commission that has power and real teeth is an absolute priority to restore our faith in government. Alan Marel, North Curl Curl The Labor party needs to commit to something, anything. Give the disenchanted, wavering and complacent voters something to vote for. Joy Paterson, Mount Annan High time to act on Uluru statement I read June Oscars excellent article about the sorry history of reconciliation and the hope of a breakthrough via the Uluru Statement from the Heart with a mixture of sadness, anger and frustration, but also with hope for the future (Australia is ready, at last, to grow up, May 27). If all people of goodwill combine to demand action, we can achieve the very reasonable demands of the Uluru Statement  a Voice to Parliament enshrined in the constitution, treaties and truth telling. Indeed a start has been made  Victoria is setting up a Truth and Justice Commission and Western Australia has a treaty with the Noongar nation. Andrew Macintosh, Cromer On the fourth anniversary of its launch, your correspondent makes a heartfelt plea for us to adopt the Uluru Statement from the Heart (Letters, May 27). Yet our Indigenous Minister for Indigenous Australians, Ken Wyatt, will not yet propose an enabling referendum because our government wont support it and he has doubts enough of us would vote for the generous proposal to walk with us in a movement of the Australian people for a better future. Surely we can do better than this? David Hind, Neutral Bay

Fake news It is alarming when the Morrison government is the spreader of fake news, that it is essential to build a gas-fired power station to shore up electricity supply when all the experts in the industry, economists and environmentalists say it is a $600 million white elephant (Gas plant buries bank notes : Garnaut, May 27). Christina Foo, North Wahroonga Looming extinction On Tuesday we were told of the threatened extinction of the swift parrot. Thursday the news story concerns the black-throated finch (Endangered bird numbers in acute slide at Adani site, May 27). If massive action to focus on reducing the effects of land degradation and climate change doesnt take place, how long till we see a headline, The extinction of humankind is imminent? Nedra Orme, Neutral Bay

Hands off our parks So many buzzwords in the white paper for Stokes Greater Sydney Parks agency but I failed to see any business model (Rare gems of parkland are not real estate, May 27). As usual, we can expect a pop-up tent from the Department of Planning to give the community some colour dots to stick on their favourite park activity (dot-mocracy) and thats it. Missing is transparency and real decision making on our public parks by the people it serves. Government must drop this neo-liberal attitude to passive spaces that they believe must be activated and generate income. Our parks are like hospitals - they must be there for the general health of our society. Suzette Meade, Toongabbie Reading recovery Your correspondent stated the last reading recovery program was not evaluated until 30 years after its beginning and found wanting (Letters, May 27). As a school principal I strongly supported the implementation of Reading Recovery in schools. It was evaluated constantly within schools as we watched young people overcome initial difficulties with reading, and teachers participating in the program develop deeper understanding of the processes of reading and learning to read. The review after thirty years was conducted by a bunch of statisticians at the behest of politicians seeking an excuse to cut costs. Direct political interference in educational practices, the appointment of career public servants and the continual draining of public monies from public education to foster private schools and the conservatives much-loved choice have had serious detrimental effects on public schools. Robert Binns, Blaxland Difficult conversation

Advocacy of a just outcome of the Israel/Palestine conflict is not helped by falsehoods as those proclaimed by Paul Rubenstein (If you cheer for Hamas, know it wants Israel wiped out, May 27). Concerning the latest destruction in Gaza, it beggars belief to claim that the slaughter of more than 200 Palestinians including 60 children is not deliberate killing. To insist there was no colonisation of Palestine because Jewish people returned to their homeland suggests that the world must accept only a blindly pro-Israeli version of history. A land without a people for a people without a land was the historical lie promoted in 1948, in Australia in 1788 and apparently by Rubenstein in 2021. As in any negotiations, no-one is obliged to accept everything said by another side. Nonetheless, many Hamas leaders have shown pragmatism and willingness to compromise. We take the Gandhian view that it is easy to have conversation with friends but the real test comes in exchanges with supposed enemies. Hamas has given prospective recognition of Israel, dependent on withdrawal from the occupied Palestinian territories and a solution to the refugee problem but their offers of dialogue with Israel are regularly rejected. Instead of negotiation, the US, Israel, Egypt and Western powers have for 15 years maintained the cruel siege of Gaza. That siege should end. The longest occupation in modern times will only end when Israel feels international pressure to do so. Stuart Rees, Sydney Peace Foundation and Antony Loewenstein, Australian Independent Jewish Voices Ready, set ... stop With much of Japan under a state of emergency owing to its high COVID infection rate and the majority of its population against the Olympic Games being held there in just over eight weeks, why are we still persisting in sending our sportspeople there? Only about 4 per cent of the Japanese population has been vaccinated, yet we want to risk the health and life of our athletes by sending them there for the sake of trying to win a medal. Is it that important? Con Vaitsas, Ashbury Delivery date floats by

We smirked and rolled our eyes when we heard that the new NSW ferries wouldnt fit under the bridges across the river for which they were built (Glaring error: glass doesnt reflect well on new ferries, May 27). Now we hear that they have also encountered stalling issues under emergency conditions, asbestos, gearbox and engine problems and finally that the city lights reflect too greatly for night travel. What next? Take the bus, I guess. Lorraine Hickey, Green Point With the latest news on problems with our new ferries, wouldnt it have been a good idea to just build them here? After all, its jobs, jobs isnt it? Patrick McMahon, Paddington High-flying pollies Jacqui Lambie throwing a tantrum and letting out expletives after having been denied access to the Qantas chairmans lounge, a domain off-limits to most Australians, makes me wonder (Silence of the Lambie: Senators ban over expletive-laced screed, May 27). Do politicians still consider themselves elected public servants or has their sense of ethics been so eroded that they now think they are corporate executives hired by virtue of their own genius? Cristina Corleto, Stanmore The real question is did Jacqui Lambie say, Dont you know who I am? Don Easter, Dubbo
Two Sydney men who allegedly tried to import $1.25 million worth of cocaine that was concealed in an electric food warmer and a beauty product have faced court.

Kigham Wartanian, 39, from Green Valley, and Vrej Yezekellian, 66, of Bonnyrigg, were arrested on Tuesday after a police raid at Mr Wartanians home.

Cocaine was allegedly hidden in a microdermabrasion machine. Credit:AFP media

Investigations into the pair began in April when Australian Border Force officers noticed anomalies within a parcel that had arrived from overseas and that was labelled as an electric food warmer. A search of the item allegedly uncovered three kilograms of cocaine.

In May, another parcel, this time declared as a diamond microdermabrasion machine, arrived in Sydney. Officers searched it and allegedly found another two kilograms of cocaine.
Where must I wear a mask? From midnight, face masks must be worn both inside and outside, unless you are at your home. Those caught breaching the rules face a $200 on-the-spot fine. You do not need to wear a face mask, however, when running for exercise. Police check to see if passengers are wearing a mask on a train at Southern Cross station last week. Credit:Justin McManus Can I travel to regional areas or parks near my home to exercise? Victorians can only exercise within a five-kilometre radius of their homes. If youre lucky enough to live by the water or a park, then you can spend up to two hours there daily with up to one other person.

Loading Who can visit my home? Visitors are banned from homes unless that person is your intimate partner. Single-person bubbles will also be permitted if you live alone, allowing one person to visit you. What is banned under stage three rules? Public gatherings and community sport. New hotel bookings, clubs, TAB and casinos, swimming pools, spas and saunas, hairdressing and beauty salons, galleries and museums will all remain closed.

What is the current five-kilometre rule? What does it impact? Victorians are currently only confined to a five-kilometre travel rule to shop for food and supplies or to exercise. We havent returned yet to stage-four limitations that restricted movement further for other activities. You can still travel around to see your intimate partner, for a singles bubble or for the care of children. You can also continue to move around for things like a vaccination or for care-giving reasons. But dont forget your mask. Can I still buy pizza and pasta from my favourite restaurant? Yes. Restaurants, pubs and cafes can operate as takeaway venues only. This means you can have your favourite meals delivered to your home and continue to support local businesses.

Can I collect items from stores near me? Yes. Click-and-collect services will be permitted at certain general retail stores. But remember, you can only travel within a five-kilometre radius of your home to collect shopping and goods. What are the rules for funerals and weddings? A limit of 10 people, plus those running the service, has been placed on funerals for the next seven days. Weddings are banned unless end-of-life or deportation reasons exist. Can I attend church this weekend?

All religious services must move online only. People cannot attend their local church or mosque for the next seven days. I am an authorised worker, what happens to my children? Childcare, family daycare and kindergartens will remain open. Schools will move to remote online learning unless a parent is an authorised worker. Vulnerable children or children of authorised workers can attend school as normal. What is an authorised worker?

These rules are similar to those applied during the last stage-three lockdown, with the addition of construction and urgent oral care workers. The full list can be accessed here. Authorised workers must be employed to work at authorised providers. These include but are not limited to: supermarkets and food stores, bottle shops, courts, labour-hire firms, post offices, newsagents, pharmacies, petrol stations, veterinarians, meat processing plants, locksmiths, takeaway hospitality venues, mechanical repairs, dry cleaners and commercial cleaners. Do I need a permit to move around for work? No. Those who were deemed authorised workers during the last lockdowns will continue to be treated as such this time. It is advisable to carry some form of work ID with you, though, such as a work pass or roster. Can I move house during the latest lockdown? What rules apply? The state government says people can move house as planned but friends and family cannot help. Only removal companies can assist.

Will there be any financial support for businesses forced to close or change their operations? Acting Premier James Merlino has indicated a business support package will be announced in coming days. There were ongoing discussions occurring between state and federal treasurers on Friday, he said. Can renovation work continue on my house? In the backyard or inside the house? Those homes that are owner-occupied can only continue with emergency works at this time. Construction can continue at vacant properties.

Can residential construction continue? Can my house build go ahead? Yes. Construction has been added to the authorised worker list for Victoria. All construction operations can continue, both residential and non-residential, and regardless of the number of tenancies. All work should enable physical distancing of at least 1.5 metres between workers and occupants. Quotations are also permitted. Will crowds be able to attend footy matches this week? No. Approved professional sporting events can proceed but without crowds. Marvel Stadium in Docklands was listed as an exposure site on Wednesday. Credit:Wayne Taylor

Can I travel to my holiday home for the next week? Where you were on Thursday night is where you need to be for the duration of the lockdown. Thats the message from acting Premier James Merlino. Ive been vaccinated. Do these restrictions apply to me? Yes. There have been no exemptions announced for people who have been vaccinated. I live in regional Victoria and there are no coronavirus cases near me. Do I have to move into stage-three lockdown?

Yes. The lockdown applies to all Victorians. No hard border between regional Victoria and metropolitan Melbourne has been announced at this stage. Are IVF procedures suspended for the next seven days as elective surgery or is it medical care? For a lot of women these procedures are time sensitive? These types of procedures that need to be completed during the lockdown period are allowed to continue. What about allied health services? Can I go and see my physiotherapist or my psychologist in-person? Those allied health services that cannot be done using telehealth are permitted to continue. Those that are clinically appropriate to run using telehealth though are expected to be done this way.
The Victorian government has announced new coronavirus restrictions for Victoria to apply from 11.59pm on Thursday until 11.59pm on Thursday, June 3 in response to the latest outbreak.

This is a rolling story that will be updated as we get new information so please come back to check on the latest rules.

Acting Premier James Merlino said the rules will apply to people who have been vaccinated.

Socialising
A cocky young sexual predator with a predilection for fire-lighting and animal cruelty has been let loose to groom female victims in government-run residential care homes in Perth.

West Australian children up to the age of 17 are sent to live in residential group homes staffed by Department of Communities workers when theres no foster home available for them. Child protection workers have described the homes as new-age orphanages.

The Department of Child Protection knew the teenager was previously accused of sexually assaulting a young person before being placed in a DCP home with a sexual assault victim. Credit:Facebook

In a five-year period, Paul, whose name has been changed here for legal reasons, was charged with at least 10 rape offences, including two counts of attempted penetration of a child under 13.

He was convicted of those two charges in 2015 and was a known reportable offender before the government placed him in a residential group home in Perths east with other children, some of whom were already victims of sexual assault and rape.
WA will slam its Victorian border shut from 10am on Thursday after Melbourne recorded 12 new cases of the highly infectious Indian COVID-19 strain overnight.

The decision comes as Victorian Acting Premier James Merlino announced his government would reimpose lockdown restrictions in Melbourne starting from midnight Thursday for seven days.

WA Premier Mark McGowan said it was a concerning and fast-developing situation but the border controls in place already had mitigated the risk.

Victoria is now deemed a medium risk state, which means travel between the two states will be banned except for people who have an exemption.
A year ago I wrote in these pages that the most plausible cause of the pandemic was an accidental leak of a coronavirus from the Wuhan Institute of Virology. I have changed my view. I now think its likely that the cause of the pandemic is an accidental leak of an engineered coronavirus from the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

Many had been sceptical about the lab leak theory, not least because Donald Trump had been suggesting it. On Wednesday, United States President Joe Biden asked American agencies to investigate this theory more closely. His move follows a shift among virologists, including former sceptics, who are increasingly coming to the view that a lab leak is most likely.

A security guard moves journalists away from the Wuhan Institute of Virology as the WHO team arrives for a field visit in February. Credit:AP

The arguments are reviewed in a recent evaluation of the evidence by a former editor of Nature and Science, Nicholas Wade, and republished in the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists.

So what is the evidence for the lab leak theory?
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Former foreign minister Julie Bishop has warned the rising tensions between the worlds two great powers, the United States and China, have the potential to place more people in slavery because of the disruption to the free flow of trade and workers.

Ms Bishop also suggested Australia could be forced to choose between its largest trading partner, China, and its primary security partner, the US.

Former foreign affairs minister Julie Bishop says consumers now need to combat modern slavery. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

She said it was now up to the Australian people to use their purchasing power to stand up against the scourge of modern slavery.

The Australian National University chancellor, who made combating modern slavery a key priority in her time as foreign minister, said individual consumers in developed countries had a greater responsibility to stand up and tackle the issue.
A senior adviser to Prime Minister Scott Morrison attended a meeting about sacking the staffer who allegedly raped Brittany Higgins more than a week after former Defence Minister Linda Reynolds became aware of the accusation.

Police are close to giving prosecutors a brief of evidence about Ms Higgins allegations that a colleague raped her overnight on March 23, 2019 in a Parliament House ministerial office.

Former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins speaking at the March 4 Justice rally outside Parliament House. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

Ms Higgins revelations sparked a wave of anger around the nation about the treatment of women in federal politics, and led to other women coming forward to accuse the same man of rape and sexual harassment. Mr Morrison announced a series of reviews to look at harassment and the treatment of political staffers in Parliament House, as well as who in his office knew about the alleged rape.

The Department of Finance revealed in a Senate estimates hearing on Thursday that the meeting between Mr Morrisons adviser and chiefs of staff for Senator Reynolds and Special Minister of State Alex Hawke took place in Parliament House on April 4, 2019.
If we didnt know it already, the current seven-day lockdown demonstrates the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over. What is becoming clear as the rest of the economy roars back to life is that the impact of coronavirus is being disproportionately felt in Australias CBDs and the City of Melbourne in particular, as PricewaterhouseCoopers modelling shows.

Which is why it is hard to imagine a worse time and place to put an injecting room in the centre of Melbourne. Yet bizarrely this is what the Andrews government is going to do.

Melbourne City Council has voted in support of a safe injecting facility in the CBD. It is expected to be located somewhere opposite Flinders Street Station. Credit:Joe Armao

Thats why I moved a motion on Tuesday night calling for Melbourne City Council to reject the plan anywhere in the City of Melbourne. It was defeated but the fight by the residents and businesses whose lives have been disproportionately impacted by COVID will go on.

Advocates for a second injecting room claim they save lives although there was no decline in the number heroin-related deaths in the City of Yarra in the year after the Richmond injecting room opened compared to the three years prior. Some modelling suggests that between 21 and 27 deaths were avoided over the first 18 months of the injecting rooms operation, but the state governments review noted it is not possible to say with certainty how many people would have died without the facility.
Internal Labor communications  which could include emails and text messages sent between Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese and factional figures  are to be released to lawyers acting for unions fighting the federal party executives takeover of Victorian preselections.

Twelve unions have launched court action trying to overturn a move by Labors national executive for it to select candidates in 21 federal Victorian seats plus the new electorate of Hawke, without the unions or the state branch having any input.

Emails and text messages sent by Labor leader Anthony Albanese could be among documents to be released to unions in a court case Credit:Getty

The unions argue the national executive gave itself overarching power over the Victorian division after branch-stacking allegations were levelled last year against powerbroker and expelled state MP Adem Somyurek.

Marlene Kairouz, another state Labor MP charged by Labor with branch-stacking offences in the wake of an investigation by The Age and 60 Minutes, has also launched legal action against high-profile ALP figures in claiming she was unlawfully pursued by the party.
An expert on school closures and child mental health has lambasted the Andrews government for imposing a blanket return to remote learning, arguing it is a disproportionate approach that risks doing long-term emotional harm.

Murdoch Childrens Research Institute group leader Fiona Russell led a study of COVID-19 school closures last year that recommended a traffic light system that would permit schools to stay open in areas where community transmission is low.

Remote learning is back for five-year-old Estelle (left). Her mother Alex Kirby thinks her daughter is well-placed to cope. Credit:Jason South

The report found that of 1 million enrolled students in Victoria, 337 or 0.03 per cent had a coronavirus infection linked to a school outbreak last year, while 1635 infections were linked with childcare and schools in some way.

It recommended that schools be closed as a last resort and a staged mitigation strategy be adopted to open where safe, through measures such as physical distancing, masks and class bubbles.
The collapse of WA construction giant Pindan could cost taxpayers up to $10 million as the state seeks to help new home builders left in the lurch, the state government has revealed.

The liability comes from the states underwriting of home indemnity insurance, which is a requirement on all residential building work valued over $20,000.

The man behind a report into payments to subcontractors has decried new legislation he says misses the mark. Credit:Louie Douvis

In response to questions from upper house Liberal MP Steve Thomas on Tuesday, Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan said there were about 100 incomplete homes impacted by Pindans move into voluntary administration.

She said it was estimated the maximum number of claims from the home indemnity reinsurance account would be about $10 million.
Lagos: More than 100 people were missing and feared dead after a boat with more than 165 passengers, including women and children, broke up and sank as it was travelling in Nigerias northern Kebbi state.

Twenty-two people had been rescued and five bodies recovered, including a baby, according to Sani Dododo, chairman of the Kebbi State Emergency Management Agency.

We have two male and two female corpses, while the fifth is that of a baby that is less than one year old, he said, adding that the mother of the infant had not been identified.

Rescuers recover people caught when their boat sank in Kebbi, Nigeria Credit:Facebook/Zaidu Bala

Eleven rescue boats and divers were searching for about 138 missing passengers as anxiety grew among relatives of those missing.
Paris: Spains postal service prompted widespread criticism this week after introducing skin-tone stamps - with the lightest ones being the most valuable - and promoting them as part of an anti-racism campaign.

The darker the stamp, the less value it will have, the state-owned company Correos, said in a news release announcing the launch.

Spains skin-tone stamps - with the lightest ones being the most valuable.

Therefore, when making a shipment, it will be necessary to use more black stamps than white ones. That way, each letter and each shipment will become a reflection of the inequality created by racism.

A black stamp is worth 70 eurocents in the companys online shop, while a stamp in the lightest skin colour costs 1.60.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Rotary E-Club of the Caribbean, District 7020 Butterfly Story writing contest has recently announced its winners, with much appreciation to our local young authors. The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset received 18 stories, with 3 being submitted to the Rotary E-Club for consideration to be published in this years Butterfly Storybook. The club congratulates DeSjaniah Lake for emerging as the overall winner.

The Little Dreaming Caterpillar, by Stella Palmer and Catching Butterflies, by Sahana Rinker both from the Montessori School, and John the Mongoose, by DeSjaniah Lake of the Methodist Agogic Centre JAG emerged as the three best stories from the 18 stories submitted to the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset and sent to the Rotary E-Club of the Caribbean.

This year, the participating schools and students included Hemant Punjabi, Hiten Punjabi, and Sierra Hodge of the St. Dominic High School. From the Montessori School, the participants were Gabriel Amado, Gabriel Antunez, Arhan Baharani, Adriaan Coppelmans, Christiaan (Chris) de Wilde, Giselina (Mimi) Greaux Domatilia, Sebastian Russo, Sophia Suire, Amani van der Camp, Kjeld van der Meer, Daan Vinke, Charlie-Shanti Winkel. From the Methodist Agogic Center (JAG), there was one submission from DeSjaniah Lake.

The Butterfly Story Book writing contest challenges creative young writers aged 7-11 to tell their stories. The students were asked to write a story reflecting acts of kindness, friendship, leadership and/or respect. This could involve friends, family and/or pets and specifically illustrate the Caribbean culture, consisting of 300-750 words. The contest was open to students residing in the Caribbean as an opportunity to become published young authors.

All participants were invited to the Emilio Wilson Park for a time of celebration. All participating schools and students received certificates for their contribution. The winner, DeSjaniah Lake, received a cash price of $50.00 from the Rotary E-Club of Caribbean and a JBL speaker compliments of the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset. The winner will also have her story published in the 2021 Butterfly Story Book alongside winners from other Caribbean countries. The general public is encouraged to purchase a book sold on Amazon by searching: The Butterfly StoryBook (2021): STORIES WRITTEN BY CHILDREN FOR CHILDREN: A project of The Rotary E-Club of the Caribbean 7020.

Youth Service Chair of the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset, Kimberley Duzong, thanked all participants for submitting exceptional stories and encouraged them to continue writing. She also thanked the principals, teachers, and parents for supporting this endeavor and encouraging participation of their students.

The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset meets on the second and fourth Monday of the month at Carl N Sons Unique Inn and Conference Facilities in Cole Bay at 7:30pm. Due to COVID-19, the club currently meets via Zoom. The club can be contacted via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via the official Facebook page at facebook.com/rotarysxmsunset.
Written by Katie Begley, a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and spouse of a Naval officer. She is a regular contributor to At Ease, a military lifestyle magazine published by APG Media of Chesapeake, which owns Southern Maryland News.
Tommy Ashley, 36, of Eubank, passed away Friday, June 11, 2021 at the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington. Arrangements are pending and will be announced later by Morris & Hislope Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed to the family at: www.morrisandhislope.com.
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Germany and Norway on Thursday officially launched an undersea power cable between the two countries in a project that aids Europe's effort to shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg, along with other government and industry officials, took part in a virtual ceremony to symbolically throw the switch on the more than $2.2 billion project. The 623-km cable has been operational for at least a month but was formally opened Thursday.

The cable, known as NordLink, allows an exchange of green energy between the two countries, allowing solar- and wind-generated electricity from Germany to flow to Norway, which will send back power generated largely from hydroelectric plants at water reservoirs. It will also fill gaps that occur because of fluctuations in wind and solar supplies.
STAMFORD  Over the last several months, contractors have finished building out the immense media headquarters taking shape on the waterfront.

Over Memorial Day weekend, patrons at Stamfords newly announced Cisco Brewers outpost will get a first look at the village growing in the South End.

Nantucket-based beverage company Cisco Brewers will, over the holiday weekend, debut its newest location at The Village, the media, marketing and business complex coming together right next to the citys marina. The project has been in the works since 2017, when business executive Brent Montgomery, who lives in neighboring Greenwich, purchased the property. The Memorial Day unveiling is the publics first real look at what has been brewing inside.

The Village will house the Wheelhouse Group (Montgomerys conglomerate that works on everything from investing to media production) and reality television giant ITV America, along with some of Wheelhouses other ventures.

We like to joke that The Village is our version of Disneyland. Its where you get to meet all the characters, Montgomery said. Everything at The Village is imbued with a fantasy-land feel. Light floods into the building from every angle. The sunshine is practically a design element. Upstairs, in a hidden tequila bar Montgomery envisions as an intimate event space, everything is leather, marble, and velvet.

Every amusement park needs a food court. Thats where Cisco Brewers comes in.

We wanted to get a name brand that was big in the area as our first big bet, Montgomery said of the company. The location at The Village marks the brewerys first step into Connecticut, but the new home ties right into its beachy approach to business. Even with a multimillion-dollar development to explore, the Stamford Marina manages to be the star of the show.

Just behind the main concourse at The Village, dozens of wooden tables line the marina. Montgomery envisions people drinking, chatting, and enjoying live music. Customers are invited to come with their dogs or families; the space is both pet- and family-friendly.

The tables and benches wrap around the building and lead right into The Villages gastronomical crown jewel: a first-floor bar and restaurant.

Though Montgomery wants the restaurant to be a fine-dining experience in its own right, it is not wholly separate from Cisco Brewers. Beverages from outside will be served indoors. Food from the restaurant will be served outside, but there are also plans to host smaller vendors like South Norwalks Nit Noi Provisions and seafood from Maine-based Community Shellfish.

The brewery outpost will feed into the restaurant inside when all is said and done. Though theres still more work to be completed, according to Montgomery, some of its offerings will be available to attendees during the holiday weekend event.

The Memorial Day soft launch is already booked for the whole weekend, thanks to the power of word of mouth. However, Montgomery plans to ease into opening the space officially by holding previews every weekend in June. These events will all serve as a testing ground for the brewerys final outdoor layout.

We just want to get out as many kinks as possible, Montgomery said. You only get one chance to get a good first impression.

Patrons are required to reserve a spot ahead of time for both the Memorial Day event and the June previews. Cisco Brewers will be open on preview weekends from 4 to 8 p.m. on Fridays and from noon to 8 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. The entire outfit, including the forthcoming restaurant, is set to open fully ahead of the July 4 holiday.

veronica.delvalle@hearstmediact.com
STAMFORD  City representatives and residents alike started sounding the alarm on potential rock crushing in the South End more than a decade ago. After endless complaints, multiple court battles, legal agreements, and construction delays, the saga may come to an end.

But despite reassurances from Stamfords Law Department and the construction processing plant in question, some of the neighbors refuse to declare a final victory against the noise and dust they say plagues the neighborhood.

Theyre dumping. Theyre crushing, city Rep. Elise Coleman, D-3, said at a Public Safety Committee meeting last month. Coleman was referring to A. Vitti Construction, the South End gravel manufacturing plant owned by Antonio Vitti that has faced backlash from the city for more than a decade. He doesnt seem to be very busy, but hes so noisy.

The city last attempted to stop the friction between the construction company and residents in 2019, when it said A. Vitti Construction was violating zoning regulations that prohibit rock crushing in the neighborhood and took the company to court.

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Coleman and her neighbors live adjacent to a swath of land zoned for manufacturing-related uses in the South End, which A. Vitti Construction owns. Its a relic of the communitys industrial past that abuts the multi-family homes that line Harbor Street and Rugby Street, just north of Kosciuszko Park. And for years, the proximity between residential living and material processing has caused some of the neighbors grief.

When he crushes, you hear the buzzing, but even worse, when he was crushing, you can see the soot flying out the two front doors, Irene Toigo told The Stamford Advocate. Toigo, who lives on Harbor Street near the companys space, has been leveling complains about rock crushing activity at the Rugby Street plant for years.

As both a city representative and longtime South End resident, Coleman said she has watched the push and pull between Vitti and the city unfold over the years. It comes up regularly in conversation with her constituents and in her own life.

She recalls sitting outside her home with state Rep. David Michel, D-146, at a picnic table. While the pair talked, she felt dust sprinkle all over her face and onto her lips like a dusting of snow.

Down here, you cant even sit in the backyard, she told The Stamford Advocate.

The 2019 agreement between the city and Vittis company codified that A. Vitti Construction cannot crush rocks larger than four inches at his Rugby Street location. However, he can process other materials like gravel and brick. Most importantly, the city and Vitti agreed that he must put up a fully enclosed building for his operations that comply with noise, vibration and dust management, ventilation, vehicular circulation, truck Idling, (and) street cleaning standards.

Work on the facility started in September 2019, and the courts expected it to conclude by March 2020. A few months later, the pandemic derailed that plan, according to Tom Cassone, the attorney representing owner Antonio Vitti.

Weve been fighting this for 15 years, Coleman told the other Public Safety Committee members. I dont know what else you want me to tell them.

Even though some South End residents like Coleman and Toigo feel rattled, both literally and emotionally, by the work they say is happening on the Vitti lot, Cassone said his clients structure should be completed and certified by the city soon.

To comply with the agreement with the city, a hotline needs to be set up for neighborhood complaints or inquiries, and signage has to be installed showing the hours of operation and the phone (number), said the attorney.

Its weeks, not months, Cassone said. Specifically because there have to be final inspections, some noise and vibration tests must be done, and some signage that has been ordered has to be put up.

But once the shelter becomes a done deal, Stella wonders how the city plans to keep the problems to a minimum. Even though the citys enforcement powers will fully kick in once Vitti receives a certificate of occupancy from the city, Stella hesitates before declaring victory.

If a neighbor flags the city with a complaint about rock crushing, it still takes time to send a zoning enforcement officer down to the side, Stella started. By the time someone is in the South End to check out the claims, the representatives thinks it could be too late to take meaningful action.

We need to have an enforcement team, he said. We need to have people  boots on the ground that could actually go out there and make sure this is compliant and to make sure theyre not rock crushing or violating.

veronica.delvalle@hearstmediact.com
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP)  A children's hospital in Colorado has declared a pediatric mental health state of emergency after an unprecedented number of children 8 and older have reported needing immediate treatment, mostly for suicidal thoughts and attempts.

Childrens Hospital Colorado CEO Jena Hausmann said the facility is overrun with kids attempting suicide and suffering from other forms of major mental health illness.

Hausmann issued a call to action on Tuesday to Democratic Gov. Jared Polis, state lawmakers and agencies to prioritize mental health services for children, release more funding for suicide prevention, recruit more providers and reduce bureaucracy in enabling children to access services, The Gazette reported.

Childrens Hospital Colorado Chief Medical Officer Dr. David Brumbaugh said between a dozen and two dozen children systemwide may wait hours or days on any given day to get a behavioral health bed. As a result, Hausmann has suggested setting up emergency centers, like those that emerged for COVID-19 patients, to accommodate the overflow.

Its been devastating to see suicide become the leading cause of death for Colorados children, Hausmann said.

Childrens Hospital Colorado, which operates 16 urgent, emergency and specialty locations statewide, saw a 72% increase systemwide in behavioral health emergency department visits from January through April compared with the same period in 2019, officials said.

Dr. Jenna Glover, director of psychology training at the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, said the concern is that children will develop long-term affects. Children are coping with pandemic stress primarily through substance use, withdrawal from normal involvement and eating-disorder behavior, she said.

Its not going to go away next year, she said. Now they just have to reengage in life, and they dont have the resources. Theyre burned out. Theyre hopeless.

Colorado Springs has seen a steady increase of children in both group and individual therapy since the coronavirus pandemic began, Pikes Peak Suicide Prevention Executive Director Cass Walton said. There was a surge the past three months along with more inquiries from parents needing help navigating the system and seeking advice, she said.

Our community is responding to this complex issue, Walton said. But it is going to take time and resources to really get a handle on it.

Brumbaugh noted a sense of urgency for the Children's Hospital Colorado as three to four teens attempt suicide a week and beds at the facility are completely full.

Childrens Hospital Colorado is now expanding several campuses to add inpatient and outpatient mental health beds and services, including in Colorado Springs.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Senate Republicans are poised to use a filibuster to derail Democrats effort to launch a bipartisan probe of the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol. The showdown will be the first vote this year when the GOP has used the delaying tactic to try killing major legislation.

Yet while the GOP seemed certain to succeed Thursday, their victory may prod Democrats closer to curbing or eliminating a legislative tactic thats been the bane of Senate majorities since the Founding Fathers.

Here's a look at the filibuster, how it works and the current political firestorm over it.

WHAT'S A FILIBUSTER?

Unlike the House, the Senate places few constraints on lawmakers' right to speak. Senators can also easily use the chamber's rules to hinder or block votes. Collectively these procedural delays are called filibusters.

Senate records say the term began appearing in the mid-19th century. The word comes from a Dutch term for freebooter and the Spanish filibusteros that were used to describe pirates.

Filibusters were emblazoned in the public's mind in part by the 1939 film, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, in which Jimmy Stewart portrayed a senator who spoke on the chamber's floor until exhaustion. In a real-life version of that, Sen. Strom Thurmond, D-S.C., stood continuously by his desk for 24 hours and 18 minutes speaking against the 1957 Civil Rights Act, the longest Senate speech by a single senator for which there are records of speaking length.

Those days are mostly gone. Senators usually tell Senate leaders or announce publicly that they will filibuster a bill, with no lengthy speeches required. Their impact usually flows not from delaying Senate business but from the need to get a supermajority of votes to end them.

HOW DO FILIBUSTERS END?

Records from the first Congress in 1789 show senators complaining about long speeches blocking legislation. Frustration grew and in 1917, the Senate voted to let senators end filibusters with a two-thirds majority vote.

In 1975, the Senate lowered that margin to the current three-fifths majority, which in the 100-member chamber is 60 votes. That margin is needed to end filibusters against nearly all types of legislation, but no longer applies to nominations.

Democrats controlling the Senate in 2013, angered by GOP delays on then-President Barack Obama's picks, reduced the margin for ending filibusters against most appointees to a simple majority, exempting Supreme Court nominees. In 2017, Republicans running the chamber, eager to add conservative justices under then-President Donald Trump, lowered the threshold to a simple majority for Supreme Court picks as well.

WHATS THE PROBLEM?

Democrats emerged from the 2020 elections controlling the White House, Senate and House. They had pent-up pressure to enact an agenda that includes spending trillions to bolster the economy and battle the pandemic, expanding voting rights and helping millions of immigrants in the U.S. illegally become citizens.

But Democrats have a slender House majority and control the 50-50 Senate only because of the tie-breaking vote of Vice President Kamala Harris. That means that to overcome a filibuster, Democrats need support from at least 10 Republicans, a heavy lift in a time of intense partisanship.

That's frustrated progressive senators and outside liberal groups, who've pressured Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., to eliminate filibusters  even as their use has become increasingly common by whichever party is in the minority.

According to Senate records dating back to World War I, the number of votes to end filibusters in any two-year Congress never reached 100 until the 2007-2008 sessions. It hit a high of 298 in the 2019-2020 Congress, mostly on Trump appointees that Republicans running the Senate were pushing to confirmation.

In this year's first five months as of this week, there were already 41 votes to end filibusters, mostly on President Joe Biden's nominees.

WHAT CAN DEMOCRATS DO?

It takes a simple majority, 51 votes, to change how the Senate cuts off filibusters. GOP support for retaining them is solid, with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., saying Democrats want to end them in a quest for raw power.

But with Democrats eager to enact their priorities before they lose their fragile majority, their support for discarding filibusters has grown. Biden, who's influential despite having no vote on the matter, has said the tactic is being abused in a gigantic way."

Yet Democrats lack the votes to do that. Their two most conservative senators, Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Arizona's Kyrsten Sinema, have opposed a change, arguing the country is better served when Congress can find bipartisan solutions to its problems.

WHAT IMPACT MIGHT THE JAN. 6 COMMISSION VOTE HAVE ON FILIBUSTERS?

Democrats consider creating a commission to examine the violent attack on the Capitol by Trump supporters just one of many issues they're pushing that the public supports. Others in that category include House-passed measures easing voting access, expanding citizenship opportunities for immigrants and curbing gun rights.

So far, Schumer hasn't forced Senate votes on many such bills. But advocates of eliminating filibusters hope Thursday's vote on the Jan. 6 commission, a top Democratic priority, will build pressure on Schumer, Manchin and Sinema to eliminate the delays.

Schumer hasn't overtly tipped his hand on what he'll do but has consistently kept the door open. The Senate spent much of this week debating a bipartisan bill aimed at strengthening the U.S.'s ability to compete economically with China, which some saw as demonstrating that Democrats work with Republicans when they can.

We hope to move forward with Republicans, but were not going to let them saying no stand in our way," Schumer said this week.

Democrats used special budget procedures to push Biden's $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package through the Senate with just a simple majority in March. They may try the same with Biden's huge infrastructure bill, but Senate rules limit the ability to use that route.
HONG KONG (AP)  Hong Kong authorities for the second year have banned the June 4 candlelight vigil commemorating the bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protests in Beijings Tiananmen Square, organizers said Thursday.

The Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China, which organizes the candlelight vigil annually, said in a statement that the police had objected to the event because of social distancing restrictions, which prohibit large gatherings.

For years, Hong Kong and Macao were the only cities in China where people were allowed to mark the 1989 anniversary of Beijings crushing of the Chinese democracy movement.

The ban on the vigil comes as Beijing has tightened control over the semi-autonomous Chinese city, after months of anti-government protests in 2019.

Beijing and local authorities have cracked down on dissenting voices, conducted mass arrests of pro-democracy activists and imposed a sweeping national security law to penalize crimes such as secession and subversion.

Hong Kong's security minister, John Lee, warned residents not to organize or take part in unauthorized assemblies on June 4 because they could be violating the national security law.

On Thursday, the legislature passed a bill amending electoral laws that drastically reduces the publics ability to vote, while increasing the number of pro-Beijing lawmakers making decisions for the city.

Last year, the June 4 vigil was banned for the first time, with police citing public health risks from the coronavirus pandemic. Still, thousands turned up at Victoria Park  where the vigil is held each year  singing songs and lighting candles. No arrests were made at the time.

More than 20 people, including activist Joshua Wong, media tycoon Jimmy Lai and Lee Cheuk-yan, a leader of the alliance, were arrested later and charged with taking part in an unauthorized assembly. Wong and three district councilors were sentenced on May 6 to between four and 10 months in jail after pleading guilty.

Organizers this year have urged people to light a candle no matter where they are on June 4.

Separately, security minister Lee on Thursday also confirmed that he had sent letters to companies that managed assets for Lai, the founder of the Apple Daily newspaper, warning them against dealing with Lai's property.

Lai is currently in prison for taking part in unauthorized assemblies and is also being investigated under the national security law for alleged collusion with foreign powers to intervene in the city's affairs.

As regards my written notice to companies and institutions regarding property which are offenses-related property under the National Security Law, I am exercising the power, because Lai has been charged with two offenses of collusion with other countries, or external forces to endanger national security," he said.

It is my duty to specify in my notice to the relevant parties what will be the consequences if they fail to comply with my direction.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP)  Pennsylvania is lifting its mask mandate no later than June 28.

The Department of Health announced Thursday that it will no longer require unvaccinated people to wear masks in public on June 28 or once 70% of adults are fully vaccinated, whichever comes first. People are considered fully vaccinated once they are two weeks beyond their last required dose of COVID-19 vaccine.

According to federal data, 70% of Pennsylvania residents aged 18 and over have already received at least one vaccine dose, with just over half of the adult population fully vaccinated.

What all of this means is that Pennsylvanians are realizing that they have the power to stop COVID-19, and that they are stepping up to get vaccinated. It also means that we are on track to get to 70% of all adults with second doses by the end of June, Acting Health Secretary Alison Beam said at a news conference on Thursday.

Businesses, schools and municipalities may still require people to wear masks, the Health Department said. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also requires them on planes, trains, buses and public transportation hubs.

With the pandemic in retreat, the state previously announced plans to lift nearly all mitigation orders on Memorial Day. New infections continue to fall rapidly, declining by more than 40% over the past two weeks to fewer than 1,300 per day, according to Johns Hopkins University Center for Systems Science and Engineering.
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IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP)  Jurors deliberated for three hours Thursday without reaching a verdict in the trial of a farm laborer accused of fatally stabbing a University of Iowa student who disappeared in 2018 while out for a run.

Cristhian Bahena Rivera is charged with first-degree murder in the death of 20-year-old Mollie Tibbetts. Jurors were sent home and will return Friday morning.

Prosecutor Scott Brown said in a closing argument earlier Thursday that the trial testimony revealed overwhelming evidence that Bahena Rivera was guilty. He called Bahena Riveras testimony that two men kidnapped him at gunpoint and forced him to take part in the crime a figment of his imagination, saying he concocted the story to try to explain away damning evidence.

Brown said the evidence shows that Bahena Rivera drove past Tibbetts while she was running on the evening of July 18, 2018, in her hometown of Brooklyn, Iowa. He said Bahena Rivera found her attractive, tracked her down on a rural road and approached her as she ran.

Brown said that Tibbetts rebuked Bahena Riveras advances and threatened to call the police, which made him angry.

The way he reacts with that anger is to stab this young woman to death and to dump her body in a cornfield, said Brown, an assistant attorney general. Later, he added, Mollie is no longer on this planet because of the defendant.

Brown said that Bahena Rivera also had a sexual motive, noting that Tibbetts was partially naked with her legs spread when her body was found.

Bahena Rivera knew for five weeks where he had hidden Tibbetts' body under corn stalks in a remote area but stayed quiet as investigators worked long hours to find out what had caused the sweet young woman to disappear, Brown said. He later led them to the body in the dark and confessed to the crime, he said.

Bahena Rivera's defense lawyer, Chad Frese, told jurors that the confession was false and coerced and that prosecutors failed to prove that it was his client who stabbed Tibbetts to death. He noted that they never found a murder weapon or produced any witnesses showing exactly where she was killed, despite having unlimited resources to pursue the highly publicized case.

Frese said Bahena Rivera was not a monster," had no history of violence and worked to avoid police, given that he had moved to the country illegally from Mexico as a teenager. He said it made no sense that his client would be brazen enough to pick up a woman, abduct her and maybe kill her in a span of 10 to 20 minutes.

Folks this was planned, not by him but by someone else, Frese said.

The closing arguments came after a two-week trial at the Scott County Courthouse in Davenport. Jurors were instructed to find Bahena Rivera guilty of first-degree murder if they find that he stabbed Tibbetts, she died as a result, and he acted with malice and a specific intent to kill her. If they find him not guilty of first-degree murder, jurors could consider lesser charges of second-degree murder, voluntary manslaughter and involuntary manslaughter.

Earlier Thursday, prosecutors called one rebuttal witness to establish an alibi for Tibbetts' boyfriend, Dalton Jack, whom the defense suggested was involved.

Jack worked on a bridge project in Dubuque, Iowa, until 7 p.m. on July 18, 2018, about an hour before Tibbetts was abducted and killed, his former supervisor Nick Wilson testified. Wilson said he was responsible for filling out Jack's timesheet.

Brown argued that Wilsons testimony showed Jack would not have been able to be in Brooklyn when Tibbetts disappeared without the ability to teleport. Brooklyn is about 140 miles (225 kilometers) away from Dubuque, or more than a two-hour drive.

Wilson said that after Jack got off of work, he grilled and drank beer with other crew members at a hotel that evening and was at work the next morning at 5:30 a.m.

Frese, the defense lawyer, said investigators did not adequately look into Jack. He noted Jack sent Tibbetts a text message within minutes of when she disappeared saying that his cellular data straight up won't work.

Thats a suspicious text if I have ever seen one, folks, he said. It sounds like someone trying to cover his tracks.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  The Legislature's Republican-led budget committee voted Thursday to end a University of Wisconsin tuition freeze that has been in place for eight years and has long been a GOP priority that had bipartisan support.

Democratic Gov. Tony Evers proposed, and the university supported, extending the tuition freeze for another two years, along with spending $192 million more on the UW System.

But the budget-writing Joint Finance Committee went in a different direction Thursday, voting to end the tuition freeze and adding just $8.25 million in state funding for UW, $9.5 million for technical colleges and $5 million for a nurse education program for students at both private and public colleges and universities in the state.

All 11 Republicans voted to end the freeze, while all four Democrats voted to keep it.

Republican committee member Rep. Dale Kooyenga said killing the tuition freeze was the right move even though this is tough to explain politically.

The tuition freeze cant be in place forever and it was time to lift it because UW has become more transparent and accountable and a UW education is a great value," he said.

But it also came with a warning.

If UW decides to jack up tuition in a tone deaf manner, this body will take action, Kooyenga said.

The budget proposal would have to pass the full Republican-controlled Legislature and be signed by Evers to become law.

University leaders for years have criticized the tuition freeze, saying it makes it hard to fund the university and threatens educational quality. While university leaders didn't ask for it to be lifted, they praised the move.

We appreciate the end of the tuition freeze, allowing UW institutions to manage tuition increases within reasonable limits, said UW-Madison Chancellor Rebecca Blank in a statement.

Ending the tuition freeze offers the UW System flexibility to develop talent, generate life-changing research and deliver the education students expect and families deserve, UW President Tommy Thompson said in a prepared statement.

UW Board of Regents President Andrew S. Petersen said in a statement that ending the tuition freeze is a positive development in the relationship between the UW System and the legislature.

Republicans have touted the freeze as a way to make UW more affordable, even during years when funding was cut or increases were smaller than university leaders wanted. Then-Gov. Scott Walker signed the freeze into law in 2013, following criticism over years of tuition increases.

It's a surprise to me to see the Republicans ease on what has been for the past several years a major talking point or campaign piece in the portfolio on higher education, said Democratic Re. Evan Goyke, a member of the budget committee.

A spokeswoman for Evers did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Terry Warfield, a UW-Madison accounting professor who serves on the steering committee for PROFS, a group of faculty at the states flagship university, said the organization was pleased to see the freeze end. He said the Board of Regents is in the best position to set tuition rates.

Warfield said he doubts that the regents will make dramatic increases immediately because he thinks they understand that people are still struggling due to the coronavirus pandemic. But he said many people are able and willing to pay higher tuition over time, which will help the UW System provide quality instruction and programs.

Over time, that will compliment other resources that hopefully the Legislature commits to the university and help us do the things the university does, he said.

___

Associated Press writer Todd Richmond contributed to this report.
BANGKOK (AP)  Thailand is ramping up efforts to curb trade in wildlife to help reduce the risk of future pandemics, officials said Thursday, though it was unclear whether that would mean an end to all such sales in the wildlife trafficking hub.

The government intends to make Thailand free of the legal wildlife trade while also combatting illegal trafficking in wild animals, Minister for Natural Resources and the Environment Waravut Silpa-archa said Thursday.

Speaking in pre-recorded addresses, Silpa-archa and other officials said the pandemic has raised the urgency of shutting down the supply chain of wildlife and game meat that may harbor pathogens that cause COVID-19, Ebola and other illnesses in people.

The motto for the campaign, he said, is, Stop disease and extinctions: Never eat, buy, hunt or sell wildlife.

Since the minister delivered his remarks remotely, it was not possible to ask if authorities plan to shutter markets that still sell a variety of animal species, even in downtown Bangkok.

Some markets are closed, at least for now, as Thailand grapples with its worst wave of coronavirus illnesses since the pandemic began. The first case outside of China surfaced in Bangkok, but the number of infections remained low until this April, when cases surged despite strict quarantines for people entering the country.

Officials, meanwhile, are turning their attention to preventing future crises linked to the spread of diseases from animals to people.

Thailand has one of the strongest enforcement regimes in the region, at least on paper.

The minimum fine for trafficking in protected species is $9,000, together with imprisonment of more than 10 years, Silpa-archa said at a seminar hosted by the anti-trafficking group Freeland at the Foreign Correspondents Club of Thailand.

At the same time, destruction of habitat is increasingly forcing animals and people into closer proximity. Poaching is a significant problem and demand for some species, especially in China, is a key factor driving the wildlife trade.

It is vital to tackle the sales and consumption of high-risk wildlife as its supply chain is the source of the highest risk of zoonotic diseases. We need to stop the supply chain," the minister said. The best way to end the illegal wildlife trade is to break its supply chain."

The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is thought to have emerged from bats or other species, though the exact origins of the disease, which emerged in the central Chinese city of Wuhan in late 2019, are a subject of intense debate.

In February 2020, the Chinese government announced a broad ban on the consumption of wild animals.

Last month, the World Health Organization issued guidelines noting that well-run traditional style markets are safe but that problems arise when live animals, especially wild animals that cannot be properly assessed for potential risks," are sold and slaughtered in public areas.

Keeping such animals in cages and killing and dressing the meat in the same areas adds to the risk of contamination with flood, feces and other waste, it said.

Such environments provide the opportunity for animal viruses, including coronaviruses, to amplify themselves and transmit to new hosts, including humans," WHO said.

Ending the wildlife trade is a vital step in preventing such crises, said Pimpavadee Phaholyothin, CEO of the World Wildlife Fund-Thailand.

The rationale is really to protect human health because of the very high risk of spillover," she said.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Far more Americans are receiving unemployment benefits than the last time the jobless rate was at the current 6.1%, thanks to a major expansion of the federal safety net that has provided aid to millions of people out of work.

Yet many businesses and Republican officials say all that jobless aid has contributed to worker shortages in some industries, which is why most GOP-led states are moving to cut off the federal support.

About 15.8 million people received unemployment aid through one of several benefit programs during the week of May 8, the latest period for which data is available, according to a Labor Department report Thursday. Thats nearly eight times as many people as received jobless payments in August 2014, when the unemployment rate was where it is now and roughly the same proportion of adults had jobs.

The primary reason for the expansion is that the government created two emergency programs in last spring's pandemic relief legislation. About three-quarters of all unemployment beneficiaries  nearly 12 million people  are receiving aid through one of those federal programs. One of them provides payments to the self-employed and gig workers, who had never been eligible for jobless aid before. The other program benefits people who have been unemployed for more than six months. Both are scheduled to end Sept. 6.

Yet 20 states have announced this month that they will cut off the emergency aid early, beginning as soon as June 12, according to an Associated Press analysis, including Texas, Georgia, Tennessee and South Carolina. As a result, about 2.5 million people will lose all their unemployment benefits by early July. Those states are also ending an extra $300 weekly federal payment to the unemployed.

Four other states, including Florida and Arizona, are ending the $300 payment only.

Collectively, those cutoffs of aid coincide with a steady decline in the number of people applying for jobless benefits. The government on Thursday reported the fourth straight weekly drop, to 404,000, the lowest level since the pandemic erupted in March of last year.

The decision by some states to end the aid early highlights the key role the benefits payments have played since the onset of COVID-19. Now, more people  and a higher proportion of the jobless  are receiving unemployment aid than in any past recovery, according to data that extends to the late 1960s. That expansion of aid, economists say, captured millions of people who in previous recessions had fallen through the cracks.

Arindrajit Dube, an economics professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, suggested that the enhanced aid was a key reason  along with three rounds of stimulus checks for most individuals  why Americans' incomes, as a whole, actually rose during the recession despite the loss of millions of jobs.

That is a success story," Dube said, "and I think thats something we should look at and recognize as a good thing."

Another reason incomes rose is that so many people who lost jobs had been paid comparatively little, while higher-paid professionals who mostly worked from home generally kept their jobs. In fact, total wages and salaries have already rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, even though the economy has 8.2 million fewer jobs.

In the fall of 2014, when the job market was in similar shape, just one-quarter of the unemployed were receiving aid. By then, emergency programs that provided benefits in the aftermath of the Great Recession for as long as 99 weeks had ended. And as the economy slowly improved, many states took steps to limit the availability of unemployment payments, such as reducing the duration of aid.

Now, more Americans are actually receiving jobless benefits that are officially counted as unemployed, though that reflects quirks in the data. The government says 9.8 million people are unemployed. But that doesn't include several million who lost jobs in the pandemic and have stopped looking for work; they aren't counted as unemployed.

As the economy improves, analysts say that the large proportion of people receiving benefits, along with the $300-a-week supplemental payment, may contribute to labor shortages. But jobless aid can also allow people the time to find work that is a good fit for their education and experience, which is helpful for the economy.

You dont want someone to take the very first job that comes along, said Jason Furman, an economist at Harvard who was an adviser to President Barack Obama. You want them to take a job thats good for them. ... But you don't want them turning down multiple jobs, either.

The Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program, which mostly covers self-employed and gig workers, also allowed parents who were forced to quit and care for children in online schools to receive jobless aid. It essentially acted as a paid leave program, Furman said, which the U.S. doesn't otherwise require from employers, unlike in European countries.

That program has also benefited many other Americans who had previously fallen through the cracks, including people who haven't worked enough hours to meet state requirements to qualify for unemployment benefits.

Dube said his research has found little evidence that the extra $300 has prevented people from taking jobs. In lower-income states where the extra money is a larger boost, hiring has rebounded at the same pace as in other states, he said.

But a separate study by economists at the San Francisco Federal Reserve concluded that the $300-a-week supplement had a modest effect, reducing the rate at which people out of work find jobs by about 3.5 percentage points.

Companies in the restaurant, hotel, manufacturing, and construction industries have said they are struggling to find workers. States began announcing cutoffs to the extra benefits after April's jobs report showed a sharp slowdown in hiring, compared with March, despite a record level of job openings.

Many unemployed remain reluctant to take jobs in restaurants, hotels and other service industries for fear of contracting COVID-19. And some women cant return to work without adequate child care, though that is now having a relatively small impact, according to recent research by Furman and economist Melissa Kearney.
The first round of the COVID vaccination program continues amid a return to normal, but some Connecticut health experts say booster shots will become part of the future to keep the disease at bay.

Its common for some vaccines to require booster shots to keep the body immune to diseases, experts say. But how that will play out for the COVID-19 vaccine, rapidly developed and deployed during a yearlong pandemic, remains a topic of discussion.

Top U.S. health officials in recent weeks have said booster shots may be required to address mutations in the virus over time.

The bottom line is, we don't know if or when we will need booster shots, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the White Houses chief medical advisor, told NBC News last week. But it would be foolish not to prepare for the eventuality that we might need it.

While Connecticut continues to be a leader in vaccine administration, there are still many people who have not received a dose. State and health officials continue to push ahead to get more people vaccinated while the virus continues to circulate among residents.

Here are answers to some of the questions about boosters:

Will there be a need for boosters?

At least two Connecticut health experts said they anticipate the need for a COVID vaccine booster, and say it will be useful for multiple reasons. For one, a booster could address some of the COVID variants that have been popping up globally, said Dr. Ulysses Wu, system director of infectious disease, chief epidemiologist and chief anti-microbial steward at Hartford HealthCare.

Viruses mutate, Wu said. Thats normal. Thats always going to happen. Should a virus mutate, then we would have to get a booster to handle that mutation.

In addition, he said, immunity to viruses  whether from a vaccine or antibodies produced during an infection  usually fades over time, making a booster shot necessary.

Steven Valassis, chairman of emergency medicine at St. Vincent's Medical Center in Bridgeport, which is part of Hartford HealthCare, agreed that boosters will likely be necessary  and health care workers will likely be among the first who will need them.

Most of us were vaccinated in December or January, he said. I suspect were going to need a booster shot to protect us.

Are booster shots being developed for the COVID-19 vaccine?

There are three vaccines approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for emergency use against the COVID-19 virus: Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson.

Pfizer-BioNTech, the first to receive government approval, has been studying since early this year whether a booster shot, or potentially a third dose of the vaccine, would be needed in the future. It takes two shots right now to get the full benefits of the Pfizer vaccine.

Moderna similarly has been studying boosters for its two-dose vaccine. This month, the company announced positive results from its booster trials.

Johnson & Johnsons CEO Alex Gorsky told CNN in March that the company was working on a booster for its vaccine as well.

Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer-BioNTech have not released results from any trials on vaccine boosters.

Will there be demand for boosters?

Health experts are unsure whether people will sign up for a booster. Valassis said the success of the states vaccination program should indicate to people that the shots are an effective way to prevent COVID.

Connecticut has done such a great job vaccinating people and we can see the benefits of that, he said. I hope that is a good motivation for people to get a booster shot, so we can continue on that trajectory to herd immunity.

But Wu said its possible that the state could be a victim of its own vaccination success. The more people get a vaccination, the less you see of the disease, he said. The less you see of the disease, the less willing you are to see it as a problem.

Though he hopes theres a good response to any boosters that come out, Wu is somewhat skeptical.

I think theres going to be less people who get it compared to the original vaccination rollout, he said.

Do many other vaccines require boosters?

Booster shots are common in the course of vaccines administered to children and adults, though not all vaccines require one.

Many vaccines require boosters to maintain their efficiency, including tetanus, measles, mumps and rubella, and many other illnesses people are first vaccinated against as children, Wu said.

The most common vaccine that requires a booster is for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, which happens every 10 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

While not a booster, the flu shot is administered annually to address prevalent strains of the virus circulating across the globe.

Other vaccines are given in spaced out courses to children and adults to gain full effect.
MBABANE  The implementation strategy of the COMESA Local Content Policy Framework on Industrialisation is set for adoption this week.

The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) consists of 21 member States stretching from Tunisia to Eswatini. According to a correspondence from COMESA, the adoption is expected since the technical and ministerial committees on industry conduct their fourth meetings. The objective of the implementation strategy is to ensure that a high proportion of project inputs are sourced from the host country without compromising the economics of the project or sector being leveraged, reads the shared information in part.

Value

The framework, according to the report, is intended to optimise the economic value to be derived from the development of natural resources through domestic linkages while giving regard to the countrys development goals, vision for a given sector, trade competitiveness and the financial viability of the natural resource being leveraged. The regional industry experts began their meeting on Monday, with Zimbabwe hosting the virtual proceedings. The key agenda of the meeting was the adoption of the draft harmonised COMESA Framework of Managing Special Economic Zones and Industrial Parks. It will then be presented before the ministerial meeting tomorrow. In her official opening remarks, Zimbabwes Industry and Commerce Ministry permanent secretary Mavis Sibanda said the implementation of the local content framework would have an economic multiplier effect that would result in greater value extraction by host countries. The Implementation Strategy of the Local Content Framework must outline successful, local content initiatives based on a well-conceived strategy as well as legal and institutional considerations that recognise the need for joint contributions from host governments, national entrepreneurs and foreign investors, she said.

Decision

According to COMESA head of Corporate Communications Mwangi Gakunga, the decision to develop an implementation strategy of the Local Content Policy Framework was issued by the regional ministers in 2019.

He said the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) or industrial parks was identified as one of the key enablers for successful industrialisation. This is primarily motivated by the necessity to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) based on experiences from countries, which demonstrate that with proper management and incentives, these zones and parks can be an important tool for industrialisation, said Mr Gakunga.


Luzerne County Council unanimously approved a requested 10-year tax break for a commercial development project in the countys South Valley region on Tuesday.

The tax abatement is for The Bliss Earth Conservancy site, a commercial project that NorthPoint Development wants to build on a 122-acre tract off Middle Road that stretches from Hanover Twp. into Newport Twp.

The company, based in Missouri, plans to construct two large commercial buildings at the site.

The tax abatement is under the state Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance program, which encourages the improvement of deteriorated properties. It applies only to new construction. The county will still collect property tax on the land.

NorthPoint agreed to a revised tax abatement schedule that will see it pay more in taxes than it would have under its original request.

The abatement will be 90% in the first seven years, followed by 80% in year eight; 70% in year nine and 60% in year 10.

NorthPoint founding partner Brent Miles told council members the county will receive about $575,000 in additional tax revenue because of the revised schedule to which the company agreed.

Councilman Harry Haas, an outspoken critic of granting corporate tax breaks, said Miles won him over by agreeing to alter the companys request.

Councilman Robert Schnee praised the work NorthPoint has done in previous commercial development projects in the county, including the Chewy.com, Adidas and Patagonia Inc. warehouses in Hanover Twp.

Council previously approved tax abatements for those projects.
Hazleton, PA (18201)

Today

Cloudy early, then off and on rain showers for the afternoon. High 72F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Cloudy with showers. Low 57F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
MBABANE  The plan to deliver a petition by SNAT over the non-employment of contracted teachers failed.

This was after police officers used force and blocked protesters from attempting to march or walk towards Cabinet offices to deliver the petition to the Acting Prime Minister Themba Masuku. SNAT is an acronym for Swaziland National Association of Teachers. Police from the Operational Support Services Unit (OSSU) and other colleagues blocked over 800 protestors who marched from opposite the National Blood Blank, where they had assembled singing struggle songs from 10:30am until 11:30am.

Deliver

The plan was to deliver the petition at noon. Protestors marched from the Blood Bank heading towards Cabinet and all was well until they reached the Mbabane Government Hospital junction, where police were found already forming a human wall, blocking the road and refused the marchers to pass through. An attempt by the protesters to force their way through was not successful as several stun grenades were shot by the police to prevent them from coming any closer. The protestors ran helter-skelter but re-grouped again and were addressed by their leaders on the prevailing status quo. Another attempt to negotiate with the police by the executive to deliver the petition peacefully failed. This resulted in the executive addressing the protestors on their next move, which was to re-group and stage another mass protest action, which would be taken to all the countrys regions.

Addressing the demonstrators, SNAT President Mbongwa Dlamini stated that they wanted to set the record straight and the world to know how the country operated. Dlamini said police made it clear that they would not allow them to continue marching to Cabinet offices and gave technical explanations supporting their position. Dlamini said the reasons given by the police were that they had received an instruction from the Principal Secretary in Cabinet, Sindi Mbingo, to allow only members of the executive to deliver the petition.

Refused

He said as an executive, they refused because they always met with them and the reason SNAT members were invited was to show that they were the ones who had sent them.
Ashtabula, OH (44004)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 74F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Clear to partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 62F. Winds light and variable.
Ashtabula, OH (44004)

Today

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High near 75F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

A few clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 62F. Winds light and variable.
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LOBAMBA  Regional response teams have been recalled to their workstations in preparation for the third wave of the coronavirus.

This was said by the Ministry of Health when assuring the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) that the country was more prepared for the COVID-19 third wave, than it was during the second wave. Dr Simon Zwane, who is the Principal Secretary (PS) in the ministry, was responding to PAC Chairperson Phila Buthelezis question on whether the ministry was ready for the possible COVID-19 third wave. The chairperson further submitted that there were emaSwati who were due for the second dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine. Buthelezi said he understood that there was a 30-day window period for the second dose. He requested for indulgence of the ministry since nothing had been communicated about the arrival of the second dose.

Prepare

Responding, the PS informed the PAC that the ministry had in place 10 pillars to prepare and deal with the possible third wave. Among the pillars, he pointed out oxygen tanks preparedness. We are working hard to ensure that oxygen supply is available as and when needed, he said. Zwane mentioned that the country currently had two companies that produced oxygen. He further mentioned that the kingdom had bulk oxygen tanks at the Lubombo Referral Hospital and The Luke Commission, where the oxygen was being produced on site.

I can safely say we are far better off than we were in the second wave in as far as the supply of oxygen is concerned, and we believe that is ongoing work, said the PS.

He said the installation of an oxygen generation plant was underway at the referral hospital. Zwane mentioned that in the short-term, there would be two oxygen generation plants and in the middle to long-term, about four would be established. The PS highlighted that he emphasised on the issue of oxygen because he had observed during the second wave, how there was a huge need for it and the challenges experienced in other countries. Dr Zwane said recently, the country had been recording low positive cases of COVID-19. He said this meant the virus circulating in the community was not dominant. He stated that a general observation across the globe, indicated that the kingdom was on a downward trend with regard to COVID-19 cases.
Approximately 150 troops from all the branches of the Romanian Military will participate in the DEFENDER Europe 2021 computer assisted/command post exercise (CAX/CPX), the Ministry of National Defense announced on Thursday.

"A contingent of about 150 servicemen from all the branches of the Romanian Military was deployed on Thursday to the US Army Europe and Africa (USAREUR-AF) Joint Multinational Training Center in Grafenwohr, Germany, to act along with USAREUR-AF personnel as response cells for the DEFENDER Europe 2021 computer assisted/command post exercise, in support of the Command of the Southeast Multinational Corps Southeast (HQ MNC-SE)," the National Defense Ministry said in a release.

The response cells have an important role to play in simulating the real information flow during the exercise on own forces' actions, for creating a training environment as close as possible to real combat, for practicing operational procedures, decision-making and command and control of subordinate forces during military operations, Agerpres informs.

"DEFENDER Europe 2021 CAX/CPX is a major training event for HQ MNC-SE, aimed at boosting training and interoperability in a multinational training environment, as well as proving the initial operational capability," the Ministry states.

According to the Defense Ministry, another approximately 100 personnel of the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps Command (HQ ARRC) in Great Britain have been deployed to Romania this week and integrated with the specific HQ MNC-SE structures prepared for the exercise. The HQ ARRC operational capacity was reconfirmed in 2020, and from this perspective, its experience is valuable for the operationalization of HQ MNC-SE.

"The cooperation between HQ MNC-SE and HQ ARRC is based on the Mutual Training Support Agreement under which HQ ARRC provides support and expertise to HQ MNC-SE for the achievement of initial operational capability this year and subsequently, of the final operational capability by 2024," mentions the National Defense Ministry.

Defender-Europe 21 is a large-scale U.S. Army-led exercise, consisting of more than 28,000 multinational forces from 26 nations, with nearly simultaneous operations across more than 30 training areas in 12 countries, designed to build readiness and interoperability between the United States, NATO allies, and partner militaries over a wide area of operations.
Privately-run companies must be part of the solution to fight cybercrime, and co-operation between the public and private sectors is needed to combat the phenomenon, Director General of the Romanian National Cyber Security and Incident Response Team (CERT-RO) Dan Cimpean told a specialist conference on Thursday, agerpres reports.

"We are doing everything we can, we are trying to co-operate, to fight cybercrime, but we need an analysis and we need to do it in a proper way, in a cost-effective way. I come from the private sector and what I do know is that, especially when it comes to cybercrime, many of the necessary capabilities are indeed in the private sector. It is clear that privately-run companies must be part of the solution if we want to fight cybercrime. I sincerely believe that, indeed, a better qualitative collaboration between the government and the private sector in the fight against cybercrime is needed," added Cimpean.

According to him, the private sector understands cybercrime much better given that it is the main target of hackers."Combining resources and capabilities is absolutely crucial to reducing the risk of cybercrime, but that is not easy to achieve. I believe the solution comes only through pragmatic public-private co-operation. The private sector is usually the target of cybercrime. Therefore, it understands these phenomena quite well. I am in favour of setting up working groups with additional tactical tasks to counteract well-established, well-defined cybercrime," said Cimpean.Good practices, as well as cybersecurity case studies designed to increase the level of knowledge of users, are on the agenda of the virtual conference "Lessons learned from cybersecurity experts. Perspectives in Romania and the United States of America" held on Thursday.The event, organised by the he Romanian Association for Information Security Assurance (ARASEC), in partnership with the United States Embassy to Romania and the Romanian National Cyber Security and Incident Response Team (CERT-RO), brought to the table a number of specialists in the area and also representatives of similar associations and the media.The AGERPRES National News Agency is a media partner.
President Klaus Iohannis signed today the decrees awarding several cultural personalities.

The President awarded writers Georg Aescht and Ana Livia Hagiu (Ana Muresan) with the Cultural Merit Order, Category A - Literature, in sign of "appreciation for their important contributions to promoting Romanian culture and civilization, as well as for facilitating the knowledge of the Romanian cultural and literary phenomenon in the Federal Republic of Germany"; and Academician Klaus Bochmann with the Cultural Merit Order in the rank of Commander, Category A - Literature.

Professor Radu-Anton Maier was awarded the Cultural Merit Order in the rank of Commander, Category C - Fine Arts "in recognition and appreciation for his important and prestigious career in the service of fine arts, for the talent, dedication and professionalism that led to the enrichment of universal culture and spirituality, for his major contribution to promoting Romania's image in the Federal Republic of Germany", Agerpres informs.

President Iohannis awarded the Cultural Merit Order in the rank of Commander, Category D - Performing Arts to director David Esrig and set designer Helmut Sturmer "in recognition and appreciation for their important artistic achievements, whereby through talent, energy and dedication they created landmark works in contemporary theatrical and cinematographic art, for their major contribution to the promotion of Romania's image in the Federal Republic of Germany."
A number of 12 pairs of InterRegio trains from CFR Passengers will be running this summer on the Bucharest - Constanta route, to which there will be added seven pairs of trains from the private operators Softrans, Regio Passengers, Transferoviar Passengers and Astra Trans Carpatic, the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Catalin Drula announced on Thursday on Facebook.

"We start the day with a visit to the rehabilitation works of the bridges on the A2 at Cernavoda. The fastest (150 km/h) and comfortable means of transport in this connection: the IR 1581 train. This summer, we will have 12 pairs of InterRegio trains from CFR Passengers on the Bucharest-Constanta (Sun Trains) route, to which are added seven more pairs of trains from the private operators Softrans, Regio Passengers, Transferoviar Passengers and Astra Trans Carpatic. We know that there is a lot to do for the railways, decades of delay. But, in some respects, the train is now a decent, fast and environmentally-friendly alternative," Drula wrote.
Romania's Foreign Minister Bogdan Aurescu is attending today an informal meeting of the European Union heads of diplomacy (Gymnich format) in Lisbon, Portugal, under the Portuguese presidency of the EU Council, agerpres reports.

According to the Romanian Foreign Ministry (MAE), the agenda includes the protracted conflicts in the Eastern Neighbourhood, an item included upon Romania's proposal, EU-Africa relations and the European Union's strategic vision for the Indo-Pacific region. The European ministers will also have an informal lunch with Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi as their guest.

The debate on protracted conflicts in the Eastern Neighbourhood is held at the initiative of Romania following a letter from Aurescu endorsed by ten EU counterparts - Bulgaria, Czechia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, in November 2020 to the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy."This is the first time that such an issue is included on the FAC's agenda at the initiative of Romania. European ministers will evaluate action guidelines that could be agreed on and implemented to increase the EU's commitment and efficiency, and concrete tools that can be used by the EU to resolve protracted/frozen conflicts in the wider Black Sea region. Minister Bogdan Aurescu will point out that these conflicts pose a major threat to the stability and security of the immediate vicinity of the European Union, the European continent, Euro-Atlantic security overall, so the EU needs to be more and more effectively involved in their sustainable settlement, with a broader goal of strengthening the resilience of Eastern Partnership partner members Bogdan Aurescu will present a series of concrete proposals that allow for an integrated and coherent approach of the processes for resolving these conflicts in accordance with international law and in close coordination with all relevant actors (OSCE, UN, like-minded international partners, especially the USA)."According to MAE, discussions on EU-Africa relations will focus on the analysis of the state of relations and the prospects for holding the Sixth Summit with the African Union, planned for the first half year of 2022, as well as ways to deepen the political and economic partnership based on shared interest, values and action. Minister Bogdan Aurescu will voice support for these objectives, based on the EU strategy on diversifying co-operation with Africa of March 2020 and will focus on issues related to the continent's security, economic and trade co-operation, support for combating the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, and to strengthen interpersonal contacts.The meeting will also discuss the EU's strategic vision for the Indo-Pacific region. On April 19, the EU Council Conclusions on a Strategy for Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific were adopted. According to MAE, talks will focus on an exchange of views for a joint communication of the High Representative and the European Commission on co-operation in the Indo-Pacific region, scheduled for publication in September 2021. Aurescu will support strengthening the political dimension of the EU approach and say that Romania is interested in contributing to its implementation in areas such as digital connectivity, especially cyber security, and the promotion of democracy and the strengthening of the rule of law, including from the perspective of Romania currently holding the Presidency of the Community of Democracies.At the informal lunch with the Jordanian foreign minister, an exchange of views on recent developments in the Middle East will take place and the state of EU-Jordan relationships will be reviewed. Aurescu will reiterate Romania's support for the aspirations of Jordan to have closer relations with the EU and will highlight the opportunities for the development of EU-Jordan relations offered by the New EU Agenda for the Mediterranean.
A culture of online security is very important, it can help us protect ourselves from cyber attacks, a context in which six out of ten global companies maintain to have begun to quantify these risks.

This is the conclusion of the debates organized, on Thursday, within one of the panels of the event "Lessons learned from cyber security experts. Perspectives from Romania and the United States of America".

According to a study presented by Roxana Prisacaru, Forensic Technology Leader of PwC Romania, 55% of executives plan to increase budgets for cyber security, while almost two thirds (64%) say they expect the revenues of their organizations to decrease, Agerpres informs.

The data centralized by the consulting company show that 60% of those surveyed have begun the process of quantifying cyber security risks or have begun implementing large-scale solutions to prevent this phenomenon.

On the same topic of cyber security, but from the point of view of education in this field, AGERPRES National News Agency Managing Director Claudia Nicolae appreciated that it is very important to develop a culture of security in the online environment.

"We need to link cyber security to the big picture. It means to firstly develop a culture of security and to understand that, by being safe, we can protect not only ourselves but also our neighbors, our communities and our country. By educating with this basic message, we can connect personal cyber security to national security and collective security. With 65 percent of Generation Z wanting to create something that will change the world, we present ourselves as a generation that has an inventive spirit. In the age of social networks, more than ever, we use these platforms to understand and empathize with communities around the world," Claudia Nicolae affirmed.

In this context, AGERPRES National News Agency's contribution to the promotion of public awareness campaigns in respect to the dangers in the IT space was mentioned.

"In 2016, AGERPRES launched the '#CyberFiles' section, which contains news dedicated to the strategic issues of cyberspace and security. In addition to the dedicated journalistic materials, AGERPRES organized, together with the Romanian National Cyber Security and Incident Response Team, cyber security courses for journalists, both for those in AGERPRES and for all those in the national and local media. The public awareness campaigns in respect to these dangers are extremely important and have started to grow including in Romania, due to, on the one hand, the specialist cyber security companies, and, on the other hand, the institutions with competencies in this sector, such as CERT-RO [the Romanian Center for Cyber Security Incident Response]," Claudia Nicolae pointed out.

Moreover, for a better understanding of the dangers of online, through the editorial project "#CyberFiles", some of the most impactful cyber-attacks worldwide have been brought to the public's attention, attacks that had repercussions on some small and medium-sized companies, governments or national interest institutions, as well as on household users..

In addition, the managing director of AGERPRES brought to mind the partnership through which the Romanian National News Agency supports the "Romanian Cyber Security Challenge" competition, which had its first edition last autumn and which will have a new stage in 2021, as well.

The Romanian Cyber Security Challenge - RoCSC competition was organized, in 2020, by the National Cyberint Center within the Romanian Intelligence Service, the Romanian Center for Cyber Security Incident Response - CERT-RO and the National Association for Information Systems Security - ANSSI, alongside partners such as Orange Romania, Bit Sentinel, CertSIGN, Cisco and KPMG. #RoCSC20, a Capture The Flag (CTF) type of competition, replaced the final stage of the European Cyber Security Challenge 2020 (ECSC), postponed due to the pandemic, which was to take place on November 24, 2020, in Vienna.

In his turn, Alexandru Bertea, cyber security expert within the Association for the Prevention and Combating of Fraud (APCF), discussed the MO - modus operandi of hackers in the virtual environment.

"We need to learn together how to look out for cyber attacks. Social Engineering attacks are occurring, it's a real fact. As we've seen in recent events, there has been a lot of damage done by attackers through the monetisation of the attacks. Sometimes, the attacks are destructive and also benefit from a helping hand from the systems we operate, which are too exposed. The attackers make sure that their actions can be monetized. As for the tools used, they have generated intense activity. in the virtual space in the last 5-6 years, but especially in the last two years. In order to prevent such actions, we must first make sure that we find a way to understand the types of MO," said Bertea.

The Romanian Association for Information Security Assurance (ARASEC) organized on Thursday, online, the conference "Lessons learned from cyber security experts. Perspectives from Romania and the United States of America", where they talked about good practices, but also about case studies relevant to the field of cyber security, aimed at increasing the level of the users' knowledge.

The event was supported by the United States Embassy in Romania and the Romanian Center for Cyber Security Incident Response (CERT-RO).

AGERPRES National News Agency was the media partner of the conference.
The Government approved on Thursday a new humanitarian aid package, free by nature, for the Republic of Moldova in view of managing the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to a release of the Health Ministry, sent to AGERPRES, the humanitarian aid consists of granting 100,800 doses of COVID-19 vaccine acquired by the Health Ministry as part of the National Vaccination program and delivered by AstraZeneca.

The transport of the 100,800 doses to the Republic of Moldova will be provided by the specialized structures of the Internal Affairs Ministry (MAI), namely the Department for Emergency Situations, through the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations, from the budget of the Civil Protection Mechanism of the EU, in agreement with legal provision, Agerpres informs..
Isaccea Border Crossing Point employees found 2,850 lethal bullet pistols hidden in a truck traveling to Ukraine, a record seizure, according to a statement by the Minister of Internal Affairs (MAI), Lucian Bode.

"The structures of the Ministry of Internal Affairs made a record seizure of lethal firearms, namely 2,850 new bullet pistols. Thus, on Monday evening, the border police officers and the employees of the Isaccea border checkpoint, found, hidden in a truck driven by a Ukrainian citizen, the 2,850 bullet pistols, caliber 4 and 4.5 mm. The weapons were immediately seized for confiscation," Lucian Bode said on Thursday in a statement at the ministry's headquarters.

He pointed out that in the last three days, at the national level, the structures of the Ministry of Interior have carried out 3,264 actions, of which 43 are large-scale."As many as 43 national or international fugitives were found and 349 perpetrators were caught in flagrante. Also, 29,048 sanctions, amounting to 9.6 million lei, were enforced, and goods worth two million lei were seized," Bode added.The Border Police denied entry on the territory of Romania of 424 migrants and, through specific measures, the entry into the country of 35 tons of waste was prohibited.
The National Council of Small and Medium-sized Private Enterprises in Romania (CNIPMMR) has developed a document with the business environment's priorities in relation to the 2021 - 2027 European funds, said on Thursday, Florin Jianu, President of the Council, at "The Romanian Entrepreneurs' Day".

"We have developed a series of the business environment's priorities, we also have a document, a draft of the National Council of SMEs regarding the 2021 - 2027 European funds. And these priorities cover four directions, namely the creation of a business ecosystem capable of meeting the challenges of the future: digitalisation, the transition to a green economy, competition in international markets; qualified human resources and skills in information technology; the support of the entrepreneurial initiatives; namely the digitalisation of relations between the private sector and the administrative environment. This document, as I have mentioned earlier, is a draft document. It is carried out by the 14 task forces of the National Council of SMEs," said Florin Jianu.

He also specified that the information is organised in 14 chapters, and each chapter is drawn by the appropriate task force. The 14 task forces are: entrepreneurship; labour; energy; tourism; IT&C; agriculture; European funds; industry; finance; environment; health; education; constructions; consumers and competition."We believe that 2021 - 2027 must bring added value in terms of the implementation of European funds. We believe that the National Council is ready for a step forward, an upgrade in the implementation of private management authorities. We also support some national institutions and institutional approaches such as the creation of the National Development Bank," said Florin Jianu.
PSD (Social Democratic Party) leader Marcel Ciolacu on Wednesday said that the text of the motion of censure to be tabled by the Social Democrats in Parliament on June 14 will also be sent to those from AUR (Alliance for the Union of Romanians) to maybe make "additions."

"On June 14, we will table the motion of censure. We will start working on the text, we will send the text to non-affiliated MPs, and there is also the AUR group in Parliament to which we are going to send the text, maybe they have things to add, because they have already announced that they will vote for a possible censure motion submitted to Parliament," Ciolacu told TVR 1 national television broadcaster.

He added that PSD will try to "bring down" the Government with this motion of censure that it is going to submit to Parliament, agerpres reports."We are trying to overthrow the Government with this motion of censure that we will submit. There is a difference of 34 votes between the Power and the Opposition. I keep hearing this discussion - why PSD has not submitted a motion of censure so far. But we couldn't have submitted a motion of censure two weeks after the elections, isn't it? There were also some in the PSD who at some point after Iohannis became president with 67pct, wanted us to hold a referendum to suspend him. "After one week and he won with 67pct, how could we have possibly suspended him? The same with this. After the elections, Mr. Iohannis gathered his Government of losers," Ciolacu said.
MBABANE  The Members of Parliament (MPs) who labelled their colleagues as sell-outs have been strongly criticized for their name-calling.

The criticism has come from organisations including the Swaziland National Union of Students (SNUS). It should be noted that SNUS and its members (students in tertiary institutions) are at the centre of the whole hullabaloo that has led to some MPs being labelled as sell-outs by their colleagues. This is because the MPs labelled as sell-outs are those who have been vocal about the death of Thabani Nkomonye, which gave birth to the #JusticeForThabani movement.

Advocate

This then gave rise to many other issues, with the three advocate for change MPs calling for an elected prime minister who would be accountable to the people, among other issues.

Interviewed yesterday, SNUS Secretary General Colani Maseko said the way things penned out at the sitting held in the House of Assembly on Tuesday, made them realise that there was now an agenda to isolate the MPs who had been calling for change in the country. They now want to isolate them because they represent the interests of the people. This is shocking because all that the criticised MPs have done was speak for the people who elected them, said Maseko.

He said the MPs who accused their colleagues of being sell-outs should be ashamed of themselves. Maseko was asked what he thought could be the reason for MPs to label their colleagues as sell-outs. He opined that it was because most of them were trying to please government. In particular, he said most of the MPs did not want to criticise government because they wanted to be appointed into top positions in future. Also, Maseko said some of the MPs were eyeing vacant positions in Cabinet.

Vacant

Even though he did not state the vacant posts, it is a fact that currently, there are two vacant positions in Cabinet following the death of ministers Makhosi Vilakati and Christian Ntshangase. Vilakati was the minister of Labour and Social Security while Ntshangase held the reins in the Ministry of Public Service. Both ministers passed away due to COVID-19-related sicknesses.


Romania does not support the European Parliament's proposal for 30 percent of the allocation for investment interventions to be earmarked for environmental and climate objectives under the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), says Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Adrian Oros.

"This is my second day at the Council of Ministers in Brussels. The agenda includes further discussions on post-2020 CAP reform. On the morning of the first day, the Council held a debate on the CAP reform package, based on information provided by the Presidency and the Commission on the ongoing negotiations with the European Parliament. During the session chaired by the Portuguese Minister of Agriculture, Maria do Ceu Antunes, a number of compromise proposals were provided to ministers, including on social conditionality. Romania does not support the European Parliament's proposal for 30 percent of the allocation for investment interventions to be earmarked for environmental and climate goals. We believe that there is enough leverage to achieve environmental and climate goals under Pillar II and Pillar I, so that Member States maintain their flexibility in establishing investment types according to specific needs," Adrian Oros wrote on Thursday on Facebook.

The Romanian official is attending the Meeting of European Ministers of Agriculture, which takes place in Brussels, between May 26-27, 2021, Agerpres informs.

As regards the orientation of support, Oros stressed that Romania rejects the ceilings of one million euros for investments from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and 500,000 euros for direct payments, as well as the taking into account of only 50 percent of labor costs when setting the ceiling per farm.

"With regard to the proposals for environment pre-allocations, Romania agrees that all pre-allocations should be subsequent to the transfers between the two funds, and in the event of an increase in the percentage of EAFRD allocated for environment and climate, over 30 percent, our country considers that both the contributions related to the areas with natural constraints and the animal welfare must be included in the calculation, both in a percentage of 100 percent," underlines the Minister of Agriculture.

On the other hand, Romania supports the continuation of the granting of the Transitional National Aid (NTA) and of the Voluntary Coupled Support for a list of eligible products that will be established by each country depending on specific features.
Total trade between Romania's and Moldova was 573 million US dollars in Q1 2021, up 8.37%, y-o-y, Romania's ambassador to Moldova Daniel Ionita said on Thursday, mentioning that "there are signs of a gradual return to normalcy."

"Bilateral trade between Romania and Moldova grew dramatically over the last ten years, among other things, thanks to Romanian investment that has grown. Thus, the level of trade doubled in five year, from 1 billion US dollars in 2014, to 1.95 billion US dollars in 2020, with a peak of 2.2 billion US dollarsin 2019, the year before the pandemic," Ionita told a business conference called "Republic of Moldova - a destination for Romanian investment."

Ionita added that, as of March 31, 2021, the total volume of Romania's trade with Moldova was 573 million US dollars, of which exports were 381.5 million US dollars and imports of 191.5 million US dollars, 189.97 US million favouring Romania."Compared with the same period of 2020, total trade increased by 8.37% overall, which to us are signs of encouragement, signs of a gradual return to normalcy," said Ionita.According to him, most of the imports of Romanian products in Moldova are represented by petroleum products, followed by medicines, cars, wires and electric cables. Other imports include copper wire, insecticide, electrical appliances, "all of which are indispensable inputs to production processes in the Republic of Moldova, and on which the competitiveness of domestic producers depends directly, including on the European Union market.""But what is Romania's investment position in the Republic of Moldova? I can tell you that Romanian investment is found in most business areas in the Republic of Moldova: in production, trade, finance and banking, technology, services, environmental protection, pharmaceuticals and healthcare. Romania ranks first by the number of companies with fully or partially registered Romanian capital - 1,653 and also first in terms of the value of the subscribed Romanian capital - 245 million US dollars. The banking sector dominates this investment figure, with a value of about 78 million US dollars," said the Romanian ambassador to Moldova.At the same time, according to statistics, as many as 6,371 companies running on Moldovan capital are registered in Romania, with a total subscription equivalent to 59 million US dollars, added Ionita. Thus, Moldova ranks 35th among countries investing in companies in Romania running on foreign capital.The business conference "Republic of Moldova - a destination for Romanian investment" was organised online by the National Union of Romanian Employers (UNPR) and the Association of Romanian Investors in Moldova (AIR) with the Romanian Embassy in Moldova.
The necessity to consolidate relations between Romania and Pakistan in various domains, from economy and trade to education, culture and inter-human relations, was emphasized on Thursday by the meeting between the President of the Senate, Anca Dragu, and the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Zafar Iqbal, who is on a presentation mission.

According to a release of the Senate sent, on Thursday, to AGERPRES, the meeting was an occasion to review the most important aspects on the agenda of bilateral dialogue, the two officials manifesting their openness to work together for the best results in the future as well. Furthermore, the importance of increasing contact, exchanges as part of the parliamentary friendship groups and the organization of consultations in videoconference format on reciprocal interest problems was emphasized.

During the meeting, the head of the Senate spoke of the necessity to capitalize on the potential for economic cooperation, encouraging the organization of business forums, the establishment of contacts and exchanges of delegations of businessmen from both states, with the support of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Romania, as well as the organization of online events that would be exploratory for representatives of the companies in the two countries.
Romania's Defence Minister Nicolae-Ionel Ciuca will participate, May 27-28, in an informal meeting of the European Union defence ministers in Lisbon, Portugal, according to Romania's Defence Ministry (MApN), agerpres reports.

According to MapN, the event will begin on May 27 in the presence of NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg with a working dinner on the latest developments in the EU-NATO partnership in the light of the reflection processes conducted by the two organisations - Strategic Compass and NATO 2030. Talks will also focus on the upcoming anniversary of the 2016 EU-NATO Warsaw Joint Declaration.

The main topics on Friday's agenda include the Strategic Compass, with emphasis on the capabilities pillar as well as the EU-Africa Partnership for Peace and Security. Also in attendance will be representatives of African regional organisations as well as the UN.
Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies and national leader of the National Liberal Party (PNL) Ludovic Orban said on Thursday in Constanta that moving forward, the government will attach special importance to energy investment, agerpres reports.

"This is a time of major change, I would say almost a revolution in the field of energy. Especially as a result of the 'green deal', of the new European policy, moving forward we will have to make massive investment in the production of new energy capacities and the development of such energy capacities that are environmentally friendly and that allow the production of energy with the most modern technologies, the highest yields, so as to ensure the competitiveness of the Romanian economy. Competitiveness depends to a large extent on how energy is produced, on electricity prices, and given the anticipated medium- and long-term consequences of the green policy at European level, it is obvious that we will have to increase production output significantly and I think we need to invest big in all possible resources," said Orban.

He added that under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, approximately 1.5 billion euros is allocated to energy and that there is a modernisation fund that will be used to support investment in the same area.He also mentioned that the Chamber of Deputies recently adopted a nuclear agreement signed with the US strategic partner and voiced hope that the Romanian Senate will adopt this agreement as soon as possible, in order to build reactors 3 and 4 at the Cernavoda nuclear-power plant, and investment he called "vital.""As we are still in Constanta, I am convinced that the Ministry of Energy and the government are involved in seeking the best solutions so that we can start exploiting the natural gas in the Black Sea as soon as possible, in order to use these resources for Romania's economic development," Ludovic Orban added.Speaker Orban and Energy Minister Virgil Popescu on Thursday attended the start of construction works on a cogeneration power plant on the Midia platform in Constanta County. He pointed out that the investment is an important one both at national level and for the locals of Navodari.
Ten people from Belgium, the Netherlands and Romania were arrested in record drug seizure - 1,452 kilograms of heroin - in the Port of Constanta.

According to Eurojust, it is about 10 suspects, who are part of a group of traffickers specialized in bringing large quantities of heroin to Europe.

The leader and a member of the group were arrested in the Netherlands, seven others in Belgium, and a trafficker was arrested in Romania.On May 20, the Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) managed to seize a historic seizure of 1,452 kilograms of heroin, the drugs being found in a container in the Port of Constanta, in which various construction materials were transported, agerpres reports."During the month of May, DIICOT prosecutors, together with the judicial police workers from the Directorate for Combating Organized Crime - Anti-Drug Service, seized the quantity of 1,452 kilograms of heroin, introduced in Romania by a criminal group of Romanian citizens. It is the largest amount of heroin ever seized by the Romanian authorities and is the second largest in the EU in recent years, with a high purity and a value on the black market of more than 45 million euros. The heroin was loaded in Iran and was destined for Western European countries," said Oana Daniela Patu, deputy chief prosecutor of DIICOT.The container was destined for a company in Belgium. The leader of this group used a significant number of trading companies in Europe as a cover for drug trafficking, which allowed him to bring large quantities of heroin.The DIICOT action was supported by the judicial authorities of Hungary, Austria, Germany, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Slovakia, Slovenia, the Czech Republic and France.Eurojust provided support for the transmission and implementation of instruments of international judicial cooperation and organized a coordination meeting in videoconferencing.3 anti-drug officers from DCCO participated in the actions on the territory of the Western European states, and in Romania a senior analyst from EUROPOL was present at the searches.The operation was carried out with the involvement of DEA representatives from the US Embassy, the Constanta Organized Crime Brigade, the Maritime Ports Organized Crime Service, the Service for Special Interventions and Actions and specialists within the Customs Directorate General.
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A New York-based hedge fund with a reputation as one of the industrys most aggressive cost-cutters, Alden becomes the second-largest newspaper owner in the U.S. behind Gannett. Alden also owns MediaNews Group, whose larger newspapers include the Denver Post, San Jose (California) Mercury News and the St. Paul (Minnesota) Pioneer Press.

In addition to the Chicago Tribune, Tribune Publishing owns The Baltimore Sun; the Hartford Courant; the Orlando (Florida) Sentinel; the South Florida Sun Sentinel; the New York Daily News; the Capital Gazette in Annapolis, Maryland; The Morning Call in Allentown, Pennsylvania; the Daily Press in Newport News, Virginia; and The Virginian-Pilot in Norfolk, Virginia.

The newspaper industry has struggled during the digital age, with the number of newsroom employees falling by more than half  from 71,000 to 35,000  between 2008 and 2019, according to Pew Research. At the same time, newspaper revenue has been cut in half because of a precipitous decline in print advertising.

Last year, Tribune Publishing employment fell by 30%, dropping from 4,114 employees at the end of 2019 to 2,865 employees at the end of 2020, according to the companys annual reports. The company had a total of 896 newsroom employees across its eight markets entering this year.

In January 2020, two months after Alden took a 32% stake in Tribune Publishing, becoming its largest shareholder, the newspaper chain implemented a buyout program to reduce employee head count and expenses.

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St. Louis Shakespeare Festival will return to Forest Park  and live, in-person performance  with what promises to be a majestic production of one of the Bards greatest works: King Lear.

That it will be the first time the company presents the tragic tale of the monarch whos an extremely poor judge of character would be reason enough to celebrate. But the casting of the title role is particular cause for applause.

Lear will be played by Andre De Shields  a living legend of American theater and a 2019 Tony Award winner for his supporting turn as Hermes in the hit musical Hadestown. His presence in the production, directed by Carl Cofield and featuring a cast of actors of color, has to be considered a coup for the festival.

At 75, De Shields is experiencing a late-career renaissance, appearing in settings from the NBC medical drama New Amsterdam to NPRs Wait Wait  Dont Tell Me! But he remains a man of the theater.

We go to the theater to have questions answered, De Shields says. To have problems solved, to have crises resolved. Thats why the Greeks built large amphitheaters, because they thought that the gods were going to come down from Mount Olympus and speak to them.

But who are the gods? Those of us who dedicate our lives to the profession of theater. We are the only gods we have left: the storytellers. We go out to the audience, and we say, We may challenge you, we may change you, but we will not harm you.

Unquestionably, De Shields brings to King Lear a quality that makes the production all the more unmissable.

You cant really do Lear until you have the actor whos ready to play it, says Tom Ridgely, producing artistic director of St. Louis Shakespeare Festival. And obviously, this time, we do.

When Carl and I were talking about which plays we might like to do, we made a wish list of who we might like to see in the role of King Lear, Ridgely says. And Andre was at the very top of that list.

Cofield, who has directed Shakespearean repertoire including Macbeth, The Tempest and Twelfth Night, says De Shields is essential to his vision of the play being set in a northern African country.

I couldnt ask for a finer Lear, he says. And for those who may not be familiar, Andre is one of the only people to have the triple crown  an Emmy, a Grammy and a Tony. If he were across the pond, he would have sir before his name.

And he carries himself with a natural majesty  to his core, hes an elegant man, Cofield says. He just moves through time and space with an ease and an elegance that is reminiscent of a monarch.

De Shields is no newcomer to King Lear, having slipped into the characters gold sandals for the Classical Theatre of Harlem in 2006. The New York Times observed that the actor tears into this hugely challenging role with ferocious energy.

I was marking my 60th birthday when I did that Lear, De Shields says. And I thought to myself, Id like to visit this character in another 10 years, when I have more life experience to invest in what research has agreed is the arc of his life.

So this is 15 years later. And, of course, I do have more life experience, De Shields says.

And its not lost on him that, because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the social unrest prompted by the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, America finds itself in a unique cultural moment.

One of the results of the pandemic is that the playing field was leveled, he says, noting that the casting of a Black man as King Lear will encourage audiences to experience the play in a new way.

The future looks like the BIPOC cast thats in Forest Park rehearsing King Lear, De Shields says, referencing Black, Indigenous and people of color. Its not exclusive; its inclusive. It looks like America, and thats happening across the board.

Cofield says hes most excited about reimagining Shakespeare. How is it relevant to a 21st-century audience? And how is it possible to present Shakespeare in a way that is fresh, that is alive, and that can compete with the other media that are vying for their attention?

King Lear holds particular interest for him because its a family drama at its heart, but its set on a political landscape. And to me, thats an interesting calibration.

For our production, were putting the family drama on full display, first and foremost, he says. And the political landscape looming in the background is this inevitable war coming.

With De Shields as Lear, some might assume that accounts for the casting of people of color in the other roles. But Ridgely says that although the idea was to present a world where people of color arent at the margins but are really at the center of power, it all came down to selecting the best actors available.

In all honesty, we were open to seeing actors of any background and to there being white actors involved, he says. But thats just not how it worked out.

As for the festivals return to in-person performances, Ridgely describes the experience as surreal.

I think weve all learned to appreciate how important live performance is, he says. Not only to have a cultural experience, and how much weve missed that, but just the act of gathering. And how important that is not just for our quality of life, but for our well-being.

The pandemic in 2020 forced the festival to postpone its 20th-anniversary Forest Park show, Much Ado About Nothing, until 2022. In its place was A Late Summer Nights Stroll, a socially distant walking experience with music, dance and visual art.

Theres a way in which weve all been suffering over the last year, Ridgely says. And certainly, for people in the arts, that suffering has been acute.

What St. Louis Shakespeare Festival: King Lear  When June 2-3 (previews), then June 4-27; 8 p.m. nightly (excluding Mondays)  Where Shakespeare Glen in Forest Park  How much $300-$500 for limited VIP pods; free pods available, but reservations are required (check website for availability starting May 31)  More info stlshakes.org

If you go Tickets Reservations will be required to attend St. Louis Shakespeare Festival's limited-capacity performances of "King Lear" in Forest Park. Each 10-by-10-foot pod is spaced 6 feet apart and seats up to six guests. (Well-behaved leashed pets are welcome.) Prices vary for weekday and weekend performances.  Premium Blanket pods ($50-$60; sold out) are in the front row center, nearest the stage; only blankets are allowed.  Premium Seated pods ($120-$150; sold out) are directly behind the blankets-only section; six chairs are included.  VIP pods ($300-$500) include VIP parking, six chairs and a Schlafly beer six-pack.  Reservations for free pods will open at noon each Monday for the coming week's performances and are limited to one per household, starting May 31. Bring your own chairs and blankets. Arrival  Check-in will be contactless. Guests should be prepared to show tickets on their smartphone.  Masks are required for entry (ages 9 and up), regardless of vaccine status, and must be worn when guests are not in their pod.  To limit contact among staff, artists and guests, there are no preshow entertainment activities at this year's festival. Food/drinks Guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks. Accessibility Audio descriptions will be provided on June 10. ASL interpretation will be provided June 16. For more information or to request assistance, call 314-287-3348. Weather St. Louis Shakespeare Festival will provide updates at stlshakes.org and on social media. In the event of inclement weather, a performance may be delayed up to an hour. Refunds/exchanges will not be provided if a show continues after a delay.

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Small Batch reopens Thursday at 3001 Locust Street in midtown. The vegetarian and vegan restaurant from the Baileys Restaurant group has been closed since March of last year due to the pandemic.

Owner Dave Bailey tells Off the Menu the team is very much looking forward to reopening.

Weve missed it, he says. Lots of people, according to Facebook, have missed it as well.

Bailey says the Small Batch team is excited about the menu from chef Jerremy Kirby, which includes both returning dishes (rigatoni with Cajun seitan, smoked mushrooms and vegetables in a Cajun cream sauce) and new items (the Cambodian noodle dish num banh chok).

Small Batch opened at the beginning of 2014 at the corner of Locust and North Garrison Avenue, a short distance from the Grand Center Arts District. Bailey says the restaurant factored the return of activity to Grand Center into the decision to reopen now.

While Small Batch will hold a couple of spots open for walk-in diners, Baileys says reservations are strongly recommended as the restaurant is maintaining social distancing between tables.
MBABANE  Sell-outs, regime changers or whatever names they are being called, the three MPs who have been labelled as advocates for change are not backing down.

In fact, they have gone to the extent of labelling their colleagues as shallow thinkers.

The trio are Hosea MP Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza, Siphofaneni MP Mduduzi Gawuzela Simelane and Ngwempisi MP Mthandeni Dube. Interviewed yesterday, MP Mabuza said when they were called to Parliament on Tueday by the Speaker, Petros Mavimbela, for the Acting Prime Minister, Themba Masukus, ministerial statement, they did not know the full scale, that the sitting would be about attacking them. I knew that it would be government sending condolences to Thabani Nkomonyes family and maybe updating the legislators about the inquest, he said. The MP said they had no opportunity to respond to their comments on Tuesday, especially because none of the MPs had called out their names.

Discussed

He said, however, since it was now in the public domain that they were the trio being discussed, they felt that there was nothing wrong with speaking outside the chamber. MP Mabuza said some of the MPs were shallow thinkers. They think shallow if they believe that they are MPs when only in the House of Assembly and you can only talk when you are there, said MP Mabuza. The Hosea MP said the legislators were shallow thinkers if they thought they believed they could not speak when they were around people outside of Parliament. That is their small thinking which I think it is not politically correct or right (sic), said MP Mabuza.

He said he did not think the acting PMs statement would then find fault in who was right or wrong and give direction, instead of how far the inquest had gone. He said he thought the MPs were just debating in the House and not directing their submissions to anyone. However, it was clear that it was an attack on them. We chose to keep quiet because we know how Parliament operates where they use political tricks and I saw that at play on Tuesday, he said. He said even with the order in which the speakers were called to make their submissions, it was clear that they had been targeted, given his experience in the House.
When the radio host got back on the ground and into a warm building, it was one of the best days of my life. (The climb) was extremely exciting, but I dont like the cold.

Those who work on wind turbines are heroes because they make sure we get power in our homes in a clean way, Bones says.

Executive producer Travis Shakespeare says the National Geographic series celebrates the resilience of being able to bounce back from any number of things.

Bones figures his flirtation with fear can be traced to childhood, when he was searching for love. Thats why I got onstage to do comedy. Thats why I was able to get behind a microphone and do radio or even TV. I didnt have a lot of love growing up. And I started to find love in those places, but I also knew that  I wasnt alone.

Thats why Ive pushed through this. Ive hated doing a lot of these actual missions, but there was never a second that I was gonna not do them. Ive grown about 10 feet tall after this season.

Fans got a chance to see just how daring Bones could be when he appeared on Dancing With the Stars in 2018. Thats possibly the scariest thing Ive ever done, he says. I dont know how to dance, but I attacked it.
ST. LOUIS  St. Louis-area health departments are bringing COVID-19 vaccines to churches, libraries and farmers markets in the hopes of reaching residents who are not yet immunized.

In the first few months of the year, mass vaccination events in convention centers and gymnasiums regularly drew thousands of people, many driving from hours away. Now, demand at many of the large-scale sites has slowed, and health officials say they are focusing more on targeted, smaller events.

Steve Montgomery, 41, was vaccinated Wednesday at the Lewis & Clark Library in Moline Acres, the first in a series of clinics planned at St. Louis County library branches over the summer.

Montgomery said he has been worried about COVID-19 because he has multiple sclerosis. He said he doesnt mind wearing a mask, but never wanted to risk getting sick. Hes tried to get a COVID-19 vaccine for weeks.

I wanted one when (my caretaker) got one, but it wasnt available to me yet, Montgomery said. And I wasnt sure how it would react to the MS drug I am on. I got the OK from my doctor today so we went looking for a vaccine site.
Some people will go to great extremes to spoil their pets. Designer collars, fancy bags, luxury beds. But we are just looking for really cool,
Idle speculation about a Senate race is not what we talked about in the coffee shop. Nixon wanted me to know about the amicus brief he had filed on behalf of a passel of conservation-minded groups in Missouri  those with a liberal and a conservative bent  who are trying to stop an Oregon County circuit judge from forcing the state to sell 4,200 acres the Department of Natural Resources purchased for a park while Nixon was governor.

The brief is worth reading, Nixon proudly told me. It starts with Henry David Thoreau and ends with not one, but two Roosevelts. And, indeed, it does. He emailed it to me the next day.

Leave it as it is, former President Theodore Roosevelt said when he gazed upon the vast beauty of the Grand Canyon. Nixons clients ask the Missouri Court of Appeals to do the same thing with Eleven Point State Park.

We stand with one voice to honor wild lands and rivers, to preserve the natural outdoor world that binds us together, and to enforce the laws that codify Missouris longstanding commitment to conservation, the brief reads, which was filed on behalf of the Conservation Federation of Missouri, the Missouri Parks Association, the Missouri Coalition for the Environment, the Sierra Club, and several other organizations. We ask this Court to provide guidance with strong, clear law.
That compares with eight murders, 43 aggravated assaults and 10 robberies in all of 2020 in that area, he said.

The two other Cure Violence catchment areas cover parts of the Walnut Park East and Dutchtown neighborhoods.

In the part of Walnut Park covered by Cure Violence, there have been two homicides and three aggravated assaults so far this year, compared with six murders and 12 aggravated assaults all of last year.

The robbery figure there is not on track to decline for the year, Echols said, with three reported so far this year and five during 2020.

In the Cure Violence-targeted portion of Dutchtown, there have been two homicides, 20 aggravated assaults and two robberies so far this year. There were 10 murders, 22 robberies and 57 aggravated assaults in all of 2020 in the same area.

The Cure Violence program, which the city has committed $7 million to over three years, hires workers from the affected neighborhoods who are trained on how to reduce conflicts before they escalate. They also connect residents with aid such as counseling and rental assistance.

The Wells-Goodfellow and Hamilton Heights effort began last June, the one in Dutchtown in November and the Walnut Park program in January.
Not going to even say sorry? she asked.

Hold on. Im trying to come up with the right words, Perkins said. Jay and I are good friends. So he and I shared a lot of stuff. He told me and I told him. I know that dont make it right but Im sorry.

Oh but Im sure you left out the part about us when you were on duty and I was drunk, she said.

Im sorry. Let me try to make it up, Perkins said.

Get Chad elected

Before his election to the General Assembly, and after he worked for the Bowling Green police department, Perkins was working as a deputy for Pike County Sheriff Stephen Korte. Documents obtained by the newspaper include numerous references to Korte allegedly attempting to block the investigation and creating a hostile work environment in order to assure Perkins was elected to his seat in the House.

Sheriff Korte informed me that he was aware that Perkins had sexual relations with (the teen). Korte did not want me to investigate the matter further and informed me that we needed to Do everything we can to get Chad elected, the report said.

Bakers attempt to find other law enforcement agencies to pick up the case ran into roadblocks.
UNIVERSITY CITY  Mayor Terry Crow and the City Council on Monday unanimously removed a bond issue from the Aug. 3 ballot after putting it there last month. The measure proposed issuing up to $20 million in general obligation bonds to renovate, improve and furnish the municipal complex.

Projects were to include improving accessibility to City Hall, renovating the City Hall Annex as a permanent location for police operations, and working on the Trinity Building to provide a safe and secure location for municipal court activities and council meetings.

In March, the council reversed a 2016 decision to build a new police station. The city's police department has been operating out of temporary trailers since water leaks and mold forced it out of the annex that year.

But a recent space needs study determined that the annex can meet the needs of the police department.

On Monday, Crow and the council, with only Councilman Bwayne Smotherson opposed, authorized City Manager Gregory Rose to move ahead with the design for the renovation of the annex for a state-of-the-art police station and for the renovation of the Trinity Building for municipal court operations and City Council chambers.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill.  Illinois lawmakers are sending voters a new constitutional amendment to consider in the 2022 election that could make unionizing a right in the state.

The House took a bipartisan vote Wednesday in favor of Senate Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment 11 with an 80-30 vote. The Senate also passed the amendment in a bipartisan fashion last Friday.

What a great day in Illinois when the General Assembly can stand for workers rights, said the amendments sponsor, state Rep. Marcus Evans, D-Chicago.

The amendment now goes to the voters, who will be able to decide if the amendment should become a part of the constitution in the November 2022 election.

If passed, it would prohibit lawmakers from passing laws restricting public and private sector employees from collective bargaining. It would ensure Illinois never becomes a right-to-work state, which prohibits employees from being required to join a union as a condition of employment. Former Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner pushed hard to make Illinois a right-to-work state like all of Illinois neighbors except for Missouri. Twenty-seven other states already are right-to-work states.
Fredrick said the new policy did have an impact on last years figures.

Connie Patterson, spokeswoman for the DNR, said not all arrests involve handcuffing a person and transporting them to a local police station for booking.

Speeding is a misdemeanor, and we release on summons, she said. But in the eyes of the law, it is equivalent to an arrest. If we summons for possession, we are still technically arresting them.

In addition to the 10-grams-or-less citations, there were nine arrests and one warning in 2019 for possession of between 11 and 35 grams of marijuana/synthetics, a Class A misdemeanor that carries up to one year of jail time and a fine of up to $2,000.

But last year, officials reported only one such arrest.

Missouri voters legalized medical marijuana by approving constitutional Amendment 2 in 2018; the measure won support from almost two-thirds of voters.

The DNR marijuana policy recognizes officer discretion in each enforcement circumstance.
Williamson-Moore, meanwhile, went back and forth on a contract for months. A few things gave her pause. For one, there wasnt a firm date on when the new house would be built, according to a copy of the contract. One of the addresses for the new home, 1408 Leffingwell Avenue, doesnt even exist. And while her family waited for the new home to be built, she would have already deeded over title to her row house to Hudson & McKee Real Estate, Raymond McKees company.

What he didnt count on was me reading these contracts, she said.

In an interview, Raymond McKee said it was only a draft.

This was for her to go take to her attorney to review, Raymond McKee said. They could have offered changes to that contract.

Williamson-Moore kept talking with Raymond McKee. She told him in April about the wall issue. She knew he worked with Paul McKee a little, but it soon became clear he was more involved with the developer than she had initially thought. She was furious when her wall collapsed and felt like Raymond McKee could have done more to get NorthSide to help.
The Bahrain Association of Banks (BAB) has honoured Saleh Hussain, consultant and expert in administrative governance affairs and writer, for his contribution to improve the concept of governance and its applications in various institutions, including financial and banking institutions.

Hussain also collaborated with BAB in the implementation of many projects, the last of which was publishing a book marking the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the banking sector in Bahrain. He had worked as a banker for nearly 40 years before becoming a writer and consultant in 2008.

Chairman of the Bahrain Association of Banks, Adnan Ahmed Youssef, praised the efforts of Hussain in the field of administrative governance in addition to writing over 20 valuable books in this field. Adnan also affirmed the significance of the ideas and guidance provided by the consultant in his books, and his work on presenting the most recent global standards, practices, and trends in the field of governance.

For his part, Hussain extended his thanks and appreciation to the Bahrain Association of Banks for this honour, stressing the importance of BABs efforts to promote the banking sector in Bahrain, and affirmed the value of work integration among all concerned parties to chart the future development of the banking sector.

Hussain also affirmed his keenness to continue his efforts to develop the performance within the private sector institutions, including the financial and banking sector institutions. He concluded by announcing the launch of his last two books on the subject of governance, both in English -- Governance Challenges in the Digitalised Era, and Corporate Governance in State-Owned Enterprises. -- TradeArabia News Service
4. China

Biden's top trade negotiator had what she called "candid" talks with Chinese leaders about improving trade relations between the two powers. The conversations, the first of their kind for this administration, don't represent an official resumption of US-China trade talks, but they're seen as an important step in the relationship as tensions grow on several fronts. A key US aircraft carrier based in Japan is expected to head to the Middle East in the next few days, which could create a gap in naval coverage as China turns up the heat over the South China Sea and Taiwan. At home, the Endless Frontiers Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at boosting US competitiveness with China , faces a key procedural vote today.

5. Climate

Climate activists have notched two major victories over oil companies. A hedge fund that's criticized ExxonMobil's climate strategy won enough shareholder support to oust at least two directors from the oil giant's board. The shake-up marks the first time in modern history that America's largest oil company has faced such a challenge, and it sends a message to other oil companies that investors are not afraid to act on the possibility of shifting away from fossil fuels. Meanwhile, a Dutch court ruled that Royal Dutch Shell must dramatically reduce its carbon emissions -- by 45% by 2030 from 2019 levels. This is the first time a court has ruled a company must reduce its emissions in line with global climate goals, and the decision could have far-reaching implications for other oil companies.
BOSTON (AP)  U.S. Sen. Mitt Romney faulted those on both extremes of the nations political divide Wednesday as he accepted the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award.

Romney was presented with the award in recognition of his decision to become the only Republican to split with his party and vote to convict former President Donald Trump during his first impeachment trial.

Many of us have been disappointed of late by the actions of some people whove chosen the easy way, playing to the crowd, itching the ears of the resentful with conspiracies and accusations, the Utah Republican said Wednesday. I take heart in the fact that such displays are still newsworthy and are generally met with disdain."

The domestic political squabbles are having a real impact, Romney said, by diverting the nations attention away from three great challenges facing the country: the rise of China, global climate change and the degradation of the national balance sheet.

Romney said theres plenty of blame to go around.
MIAMI (AP)  Bolivia's former interior minister has been arrested in the U.S. for allegedly taking part of $602,000 in kickbacks from Florida-based businessmen accused of selling tear gas at inflated prices to the conservative government of former interim President Jeanine Anez.

Arturo Murillo was charged with a single count of conspiring to commit money laundering, according to a Department of Justice statement on Wednesday.

The Associated Press previously reported that Murillo's former chief of staff had been arrested as part of the investigation along with the owner of a Florida-based supplier of police and military equipment and his father, who press accounts indicate was charged two decades ago in Bolivia with weapons smuggling.

Murillo, 57, was one of the most outspoken voices in the Anez government that took power in November 2019 after President Evo Morales stepped down amid violent protests disputing his reelection to a fourth straight term.

He has a long history of far-right provocation. As a congressman, he supported a ban on abortion by once telling women that they should commit suicide by jumping from a five-story building if they wanted to terminate a pregnancy.
The chief executives of JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, Wells Fargo, Bank of America, Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs appeared via video for the hearing by the Senate panel, which will be followed by a House committee session on Thursday.

The CEOs appeared as the U.S. economy is recovering from the recession. Big banks profits surged in the first three months of the year as the recovery took hold. They were able to release billions of dollars from their loan-loss reserves originally set aside in the early days of the pandemic last year.

The industry, which was blamed for the Great Recession more than a decade ago, has spent most of 2020 and this year trying to appear helpful and willing to work with borrowers and businesses. Banks across the country waived fees and put millions of mortgages into forbearance to shore up Americans distressed finances in the pandemic.

Citi quickly took action through a comprehensive approach to provide immediate, on-the-ground relief, Jane Fraser, the new Citigroup CEO, testified.
The disagreement stems from Garofalos decision to move ahead with a bill that seeks to put limits on classroom discussions about racism. The proposal sparked weeks of racial tensions in the House and has worsened fractures among Republicans.

Last week, Garofalo, of St. Bernard Parish, said he was removed as education committee chairman. But the Houses second-ranking Republican, Rep. Tanner Magee, said Garofalo was only asked to temporarily step down from the chairmanship for the rest of the legislative session, not for the full term.

Since then, Schexnayder hadn't filed any paperwork to remove Garofalo as chairman, so Garofalo decided to chair Wednesdays hearing. But he said Schexnayder disagreed. Most committee members didn't show up, and the full agenda was scrapped.

Garofalo said Schexnayder told him Wednesday morning before the hearing: If you go up there, Im going to have you removed from the building or I'm going to cancel the meeting." Garofalo waited 45 minutes for enough committee members to show up to vote on bills but had to jettison the meeting when it became clear lawmakers weren't arriving.
CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP)  A proposal to create a state-based public health insurance option has yet to be heard by the state Assembly. A plan to move up Nevada's presidential primary to make it the first in the nation has yet to be heard by the state Senate.

And a long-rumored measure to reform Nevadas mining tax structure has yet to surface.

Lawmakers are hoping to speed the passage of priority bills in the final full week of the session. The Legislature is scheduled to adjourn on Monday and, to remain under consideration, most bills had to clear either the Senate or the Assembly weeks ago.

Here are several priority proposals that remained up in the air as of Wednesday:

UNEMPLOYMENT SYSTEM UPDATE

Lawmakers on Monday held the first hearing on a proposal introduced a week ago to spend up to $54 million to update the state's unemployment insurance system. The unemployment department struggled to issue checks to the hundreds of thousands of Nevada residents laid off last year due to the pandemic. Laid-off workers complained about technological glitches on the department's website, long wait times on the phone, and having their claims identified as fraudulent. Meanwhile, the department said fraudulent claims cost the state billions of dollars.
She apologized to Strickland. She was emotional and chose her words carefully, Strickland remembered. He accepted Bakers apology, saying she had nothing to do with it.

Strickland, who turns 62 next month, is still in disbelief because, despite the outpouring of public support, he remains incarcerated in Missouri, where he has been imprisoned since he was 19.

Theres no giving those 43 years back to me, he said. I lost my life.

His fate is now in the hands of the Missouri Supreme Court, which could resolve the question of whether innocence alone is enough in the state to free a prisoner not sentenced to death. His lawyers also argued his trial was marred by constitutional violations.

Strickland remains hopeful. Its what has gotten him through the last 43 years, he said.

If he is exonerated and freed, he plans to go straight to his younger brothers house, where his mother is in hospice care. She has dementia, and Strickland does not know if she will even recognize him. But every minute could be her last.

Were going to speed down the highway, Strickland told The Star. I got to get there. I got to get there.
In the year since March 2020, the total money in states' trust funds plummeted by two-thirds while the median state fund balance declined even more  from $1.1 billion to $250 million, according to an AP analysis.

But due partly to federal relief, fewer states have borrowed to pay unemployment benefits than during the last recession. As of Tuesday, 18 states owed the federal government $52 billion for unemployment loans. California topped the list, with almost $21 billion of unemployment debt, followed by more than $9 billion for New York and nearly $7 billion for Texas.

Missouri took five years to repay over $1 billion of federal unemployment loans after the recession that ended in 2009. But its unemployment fund has avoided insolvency during the pandemic because Republican Gov. Mike Parson shored it up with $300 million of aid provided under a law signed by former President Donald Trump.

Parson's office was lobbied to do so by the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Had we not done something like that, those employers out there -- small, medium and large that are trying to come back, and come back strong -- would have had to pay the price in increased charges to their unemployment insurance, said Mehan, the chamber CEO.
A New York Times report in 2017 revealed that the military has, in fact, been gathering data for years from pilots who have reported unexplainable encounters with aircraft seemingly far more advanced than anything the U.S. has. A recent report by CBS 60 Minutes picked up and expanded upon that thread, with additional video footage in which military pilots can be heard gasping and speculating as they track objects moving in ways the laws of physics cant account for. The Pentagon has formally acknowledged that the tapes are real. Most shocking is the revelation that the sightings, often in restricted airspace, are relatively common.

The military is days away from having to lay the rest of its cards on the table, by order of Congress. The $2.3 trillion government funding package signed into law last December contains a mandate for U.S. intelligence agencies to report to Congress by June all they know about these unexplained phenomena. If theres a secret hangar in the Nevada desert with the frozen bodies of extraterrestrial pilots in storage, this is where it has to be acknowledged.

No serious people are expecting that, but given the stunning nature of the footage released so far, explanations are needed  and if the sightings are indeed unexplainable, that opens a whole new and very necessary conversation. Whether its aliens or Russians, America needs to know whats going on up there.
Ranchi, May 27 (UNI) Chief Minister Hemant Soren has written a letter to various companies operating in Jharkhand, urging them to help people residing within their CSR operational area get vaccinated against COVID-19 under the CSR Fund.

In the letter, the Chief Minister said that the whole world has been afflicted with Covid-19 pandemic for more than a year now. All the States of India, including ours, are being ravaged by the deadly second wave.

"The government of Jharkhand is dedicated and devoted to fighting this battle against Covid-19 with all its might. We all know that vaccination is the most important tool we have at our disposal to help stop this pandemic. The State Government believes that everyone is entitled to the Right to Life' and hence is committed to provide vaccines to all its citizens free of cost irrespective of their caste, creed or religion."

The Chief Minister said, "It is the need of the hour that the Government and the Corporate sector come together in the interest of public health. Therefore, I appeal to all the companies operational in Jharkhand to ensure awareness and bear the cost of vaccination of the communities, especially within the age group of 18 to 45 years, residing within their CSR operational area."

He wrote that this will ensure that all the eligible citizens are vaccinated at the earliest. "You will have the assistance of the Government of Jharkhand in terms of logistics in this noble endeavour, he added in the letter.

UNI AK RN
A threat to our rivers and communities is repeated whenever severe flooding damages communities and river habitats. It is time we start looking at new solutions to lessen the impact of these floods.

In northwest Missouri, a community-driven solution is close to completion. In 2019, devastating floods occurred up and down the Missouri River, causing millions in damage to farmlands, homes and businesses. The Atchison County Levee District convened partners to find creative solutions to recovery. They worked with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the Nature Conservancy, Army Corps of Engineers, Natural Resources Conservation Service and other partners to construct a levee setback, which will allow the river more room to flow during floods. We need more of these kinds of projects.
Shumway, whose husband Mike died two years ago, explained that they met in Arizona when both were divorced  she with three young kids and he with five. The kids ranged from four to 17. (They are now 32 to 44 and there are 12 grandchildren, with two more expected very soon, all scattered across the country and abroad. We made a good team, she said, noting that Cedar Bend is decorated with generations of family pictures in quirky frames.

Shumway explained her husband had been raised in Moab and loved these mountains. After the couple returned to Moab, they started a mining and excavating business and ultimately purchased the Whispering Oaks land adjacent to property owned by Mike Shumways dad. First, they parked a camper and would camp with the kids. Then they built a cabin for themselves, followed by the other houses. Three of them have just one bedroom and are ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway.

Guests come from Moab and Salt Lake City  about a four-hour drive  from Colorado and across the country, including a lot from the East Coast, flying into Moab, Grand Junction, Colorado, or Salt Lake City. (Weve driven from Denver, about six hours.)
Shares is the leading weekly publication for retail investors. It is packed with investment ideas, news and educational material to help build and run portfolios and get more from your money.

Shares puts on free Investor Events throughout the year across the country. They provide an opportunity for investors to learn more about companies on the stock market and hear from a range of investment experts including fund managers and Shares journalists.
A new voting fraud scandal was exposed when it was discovered that some political parties had managed to buy thousands of non-biometric voting IDs. These are used to sway close elections. The only solution to this sort of fraud is to change the law and require all voters to have a biometric ID, which includes an electronically recorded fingerprint as well as a photo. With enough money, especially from Iran, a lot more of these non-biometric voter ID cards can be obtained. Biometric cards are nearly impossible to fake and the most serious impediment to voting fraud in a country notorious for such illegal activity. Iran-backed groups in Iraq have, next to ISIL, been the biggest threat to voter registration, especially when it involves biometric IDs. For that reason, the 2021 elections allowed some areas to accept non-biometric Ids.

The voter registration problems are one reason the anti-corruption/bad government protests continue, despite the continuing assassination of protest leaders. This has been going on since the protests began in 2019. So far, the death squads have killed over seventy people. While some arrests have been made, no one has been prosecuted because those arrested had powerful friends in the government who could block prosecution and get the suspects set free, usually without even identifying them. Most of these killings take place in areas where Iran-backed militias are active. These militias are also trying to disrupt or cancel the upcoming national elections and Iran has had some success at this. Back in January the June national elections were officially delayed until October for technical reasons. Chief among these was implementing measures to ensure the voting is free and fair. Iran has been the main supporter of efforts to disrupt or corrupt the elections process, seeking to prevent the election of anti-Iran candidates. There are a lot more anti-Iran candidates this time and Iran has less money for bribes. Lacking cash, Iran is forced to rely more on cheaper methods like threats and violence. This approach is usually avoided because it creates more anti-Iran opposition. Iran is not the only offender; other neighbors will seek to use cash to get cooperative candidates elected. This time around Sunni Arab oil states are the usual suspects but those foreigners are not trying to take control of Iraq, just keep the Iranians out and strengthen a fellow Arab oil state facing Iranian aggression.

The corruption is real and the government recently revealed that an audit of international cash transactions, especially money leaving Iraq that was not related to paying for imported imports, indicated that corruption had cost Iraq at least $150 billion since 2003. That much money equals the Iraqi GDP in a good year.

In part because of a recent corruption audit, the government has agreed to an EU financed plan to create new laws and auditing groups to be transparent and then conduct periodic audits, whose results would also be available to the public. These changes have long been demanded by a growing number of Iraqis as well as foreign providers of financial and other aid. The government believes it has enough votes in parliament to get the new laws passed. The prime minister will sign them into effect.

Cheap Tricks

The continued lack of cash and growing anti-Iran attitudes in Iraq have led Iran to reorganize its pro-Iran militias. Most of the Iraqi militiamen have been dismissed, or asked to work without pay. The small percentage of militia members who remained loyal were offered jobs in smaller, better armed and equipped units. These are the ones keeping the assassination and intimidation program going. Iran has given these Iraqis a license-t0-kill, which means if you get caught Iran will get you out and prevent prosecution. What Iran desperately needs in Iraq is more cash and Iran is trying to make a deal with the new American government to lift economic sanctions. So far that effort is not making much progress but eventual success remains a possibility.

Iraq officially backed Hamas in its recently ended war with Israel, the second one since 2014. The 15-day 2021 war was even more costly to Hamas, and less damaging for Israel than the 51-day war in 2014. Hamas called it a victory because they were still alive and in control of Gaza when it was over. Most Arab and Western donors to the Palestinians have reduced or cut aid to Gaza because of continued Palestinian corruption, violence against Israel and refusal to make a peace deal. Hamas has been the worst offender in this area and started both wars with a massive use of rockets against Israeli civilians. Iraqs support for the Palestinians is all theater and little in the way of substance. Many opportunistic Moslem politicians worldwide still blame all bad things on Israel while many of them trade with Israel on the side because that is economically (or militarily) advantageous. A growing number of Arab Gulf oil states are establishing diplomatic relations with Israel, which has given the Arab alliance against Iran a member with a track record of producing weapons that can defeat anything the Iranians have and is determined to prevent Iran from getting nuclear weapons. Israel is currently the only Middle Eastern nation with nuclear weapons and the only one that designs and builds space satellites and launches them on Israeli designed rockets. In part because of the increased Iranian threat, Arab states found they have more in common with Israel than fellow Moslem majority state Iran.

The only thing all Middle Eastern nations have in common is their relationship with ISIL, an Islamic terror group which is at war with everyone, but has been least effective against Israel and Iran. Iraq, which saw a third of its territory occupied by ISIL from 2014 to 2016, still finds Iran-backed Iraqi militias the most effective force, except for the Iraqi Kurds, against ISIL. Beyond that the Iran-backed Iraqi militias are a very obvious threat to Iraqi democracy and the Iranians make no secret of their desire to control Iraq the way they have long done in Syria. Iraq is one of the most corrupt nations in the Middle East and Iran exploits that to buy influence when intimidation or a shared ideology (some Iraqis are fans of religious dictatorship) are not enough.

May 26, 2021: In Baghdad security forces arrested Qassim Musleh the commander of the 13th PMF (Popular Mobilization Forces) brigade. The dawn arrest was ordered by the prime minister, who had compiled well-documented charges of Musleh supporting Islamic terrorism and Iran. Musleh was also responsible for attacks on American forces in Anbar, often while the U.S. troops were housed in Iraqi military bases. The 13th Brigade has long been accused of causing more problems in western Iraq (Anbar Province) where the PMF is supposed to be fighting ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant) and any other Islamic terrorists in the area. There arent many ISIL men left in Anbar but there are a lot of Sunni Arabs who oppose Iran and the 13th brigade is composed of and led by Iraqi Shia Arabs who believe Iraq should be more like Iran, which is currently a corrupt religious dictatorship. Most Iraqis want no Iranian influence at all but because Iran helped create the PMF in 2014, to deal with the IISL threat after the Iraqi security forces collapsed under ISIL pressure. The PMF, along with Iraqi Kurdish militias and a growing force of Iraqi special operations trained by the Americans, plus an American led air support coalition defeated ISIL in Iraq and liberated all ISIL controlled territory in Iraq by 2017. The Kurds and PMF both contributed about 100,000 armed men. The Kurds were more effective and not seeking to take control of the government. The 25,000 Iraqi special operations troops were part of the NATO effort to select and train select Iraqi volunteers for intensive training to be effective troops loyal to the Iraqi government. Retraining the rest of the security forces meant ten times as many personnel and were in the elite special operations units. There were not enough reliable recruits available for that and the biggest problem was tribal and religious leaders who pressured recruits to remain loyal to tribe and religious faction, not Iraq, The Iraqi government planned to eventually integrate most of the PMF fighters into the military. Soon after 2014 the PMF were being paid regularly and wore army uniforms with shoulder patches identifying which of the 67 PMF brigades they belonged to. In 2014 most PMF brigades were loyal to or at least on good terms with Iranian influence. Five years later the PMF was no longer dominated by pro-Iran brigade officers. At that point Iran realized they were in trouble. At the same time the government was being pressured by the United States to crack down on Iranian weapons shipments being allowed to cross the border into Syria at guarded border crossings. The weapons shipments are often hidden from view by legitimate cargo, but it does not take much effort to reveal that deception. These weapons shipments are guarded by Iran-backed PMF members. The 13th brigade was often involved with this. There are fewer of these pro-Iran militiamen because their primary reason for being in an Iran-backed militia is the extra pay. The PMF brigades are paid by the Defense Ministry as if they were another part of the armed forces. The additional pay from Iran is increasingly necessary to keep militiamen at least nominally in the service of Iran. The 2018 resumption of economic sanctions on Iran forced cuts of about fifty percent on what Iran spent on PMF militias. Apparently, further reductions were imposed. In part that is because all those billions of dollars going foreign wars rather than to the needs of the Iranian people caused a lot of problems for the Iranian government. Corruption and mismanagement by the Iranian religious dictatorship crippled the economy even before all the revived American sanctions hit with full force in 2018. The longer those sanctions are in effect, the fewer pro-Iran PMF militiamen there are in Iraq. Iran has never been very popular among Iraqi Shia Arabs and Iran has become less popular since 2014 when the Iranian offer to help form Iraqi Shia militias to deal with ISIL. That help turned out to be an opportunity for Iran to build its own pro-Iran Shia militia force and use it to threaten the elected government and any foreign (especially American) troops in Iraq. The threats backfired and Iran is on the defensive in Iraq. With less cash for bribing key people and paying militiamen Iran is less able to influence events in Iraq. Worst of all, Iranian influence is declining to the point where pro-Iran gunmen are seen as an internal criminal problem rather than an historically troublesome neighbor.

Now the dreaded armed confrontation has occurred in the heavily guarded Baghdad Green Zone. After the arrest of Musleh earlier today, some pro-Iran PMF men who were in the Green Zone on legitimate business (security for the PMF headquarters) promptly went rogue and surrounded the prime ministers headquarters. That was followed by the arrival of loyal army units who surrounded the PMF men blocking access to the prime minister's headquarters. Apparently, the goal is to have this settled by negotiation rather than a firefight. This will not end well for Iran, the only question is how much power and influence and porter Iran will lose over the PMF. This is not the first such arrest of Iran-backed militia leaders. In 2020 the government arrested about twenty members of Kataib Hezbollah, a coalition of pro-Iran PMF militias that Iran is trying to turn into an Iraqi version of the Iran-controlled (since the 1980s) Hezbollah in Lebanon. Iran was able to force the government to back off in 2020, but that left the government more determined to suppress the Iran-backed militias that the Iraq government was forced to support.

May 24, 2021: In the west (Anbar province) two more rockets were fired at the Assad airbase, the largest airbase in Iraq and long shared with American troops. Like previous such attacks, the unguided rockets landed in an unoccupied area of the base, causing no injuries or damage. It is assumed the targets were the few American troops still based there to support Iraqi forces fighting the remaining ISIL groups in the province. ISIL is more of a threat north of Baghdad but some ISIL remain in Anbar where they try to disrupt use of main roads connecting Iraq to Syria and Jordan. By the end of the day the government agreed to transfer to the custody of the PMF headquarters, where he is to be held for trial. Iran is pulling all the strings it has left to make this mess go away but it gets more difficult each time.

May 23, 2021: In the west (Anbar province) and northwest (Muthanna province) Iran-backed militia attacked American supply convoys with roadside bombs, wounding several Iraqi soldiers guarding the convoys and damaging two trucks.

May 22, 2021: In the west (Anbar province) there was another Israeli airstrike against Iranian weapons being stored near the Al Bukamal crossing into Iraq. There were apparently some casualties as well among the Syrian and Iraqi pro-Iran militiamen who guard such Iranian facilities in Syria.

May 21, 2021: In the last week Iraqi counterterrorism efforts killed seven Islamic terrorists, arrested 81 suspects, found and disabled 87 roadside and other bombs as well as raiding 18 Islamic terrorist camps or buildings used as bases. Many more (76) weapons/equipment storage sites were found. These are hidden away in separate locations to avoid discovery. Captured Islamic terrorists often reveal the locations in order to reduce or avoid punishment. Civilians who come upon the hidden caches can also expect a reward for reporting these stockpiles, instead of just taking the stuff for their own use or resale. These hidden supplies are a favorite technique throughout the region and some remain hidden for decades after those who hid the stuff are killed or flee the region. The hot/dry climate and lots of uninhabited areas for hiding places makes such caches popular. ISIL is currently the owner of most of these caches, although smugglers also hide smuggled goods near both sides of borders because it is safer and more convenient than having one smuggler take the goods from an inhabited area in one country to an inhabited area in another. Usually two or more smuggling groups are involved, as it reduces the risk of discovery and arrest. The widespread availability of GPS devices makes it easier to record and pass on a precise location.

May 20, 2021: In the north (Kurdish controlled Dohuk province) Turkish F-16 jets attacked two vehicles carrying a group of PKK (Turkish Kurd separatists) gunmen. The vehicles were destroyed and all passengers killed. These attacks take place several times a week and the only casualties are Iraqi troops and civilians. Turkey has more ground troops on both sides of their Iraqi border and there are casualties every week as smugglers and PKK forces try to cross the border in either direction. Turkey announces all such operations, especially when it involves PKK forces. Iran threatens to carry out similar attacks and occasionally does so but never takes credit for them. These attacks are strictly for the benefit of Iran and, as is often the case, at the expense of Iraq.

May 9, 2021: In southern Iraq (Karbala province) Iranian agents assassinated Ihab Jawad al Wazni, a prominent Shia leader of the growing anti-corruption and anti-Iran movement in Iraq. Wazni also organized mass demonstrations against Iranian influence in Iraq. Iran was warned that if they had Wazni killed, as Iran has already done to other prominent anti-Iran Iraqis, there would be consequences. By the end of day, the Iranian consulate in Karbala (where major Shia religious shrines are) was surrounded by angry Iraqis and access to the consulate blocked.

May 3, 2021: Turkish security forces reported that a senior ISIL (Islamic State in the Levant) military commander had been captured in an Istanbul suburb. He was carrying a fake passport. The man is being identified by his codename, Basim and is an Afghan who directed training for ISIL fighters in Syria and Iraq. Basim also served on the ISIL senior command council and has been in hiding since 2017. Turkish media reported he is being interrogated by MIT (National Intelligence Organization).

April 30, 2021: Turkey announced that the security forces plan to build a new military base in northern Iraqs Metina region (inside Iraqi Kurdistan). The camp location is a mountainous area near the Turkish border. The position would cover routes from the Qandil Mountains used by PKK (Kurdistan Workers Party) separatists. An estimated 5,000 Turkish military and security force personnel are currently deployed in Iraq. The Metina base announcement follows reports that on April 23 Turkish Air Force F-16s and helicopter gunships attacked PKK targets in Metina and neighboring areas. Turkish special forces commandos were also involved in the operation. The operation continued through April 28.

April 20, 2021: Iranian efforts to increase its influence in Iraq while also inflicting serious damage on American troops and military contractors in Iraq is not working as planned. Iran is still broke but is now hopeful of getting the Americans to lift their sanctions. This is being disrupted by continuing Israeli efforts to derail the Iranian nuclear weapons program that Iran tells the world they do not have but the average Iranian knows it is real and have mixed views about. What most Iranians do agree on is problems with their own government, a ruthless religious dictatorship that has so far resisted all internal and external efforts to reform or overthrow it. This increased Iranian violence in Iraq and elsewhere is also an aftereffect of the Americans killing Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani in early 2020. The Americans had figured out that Soleimani was a, if not the, key Iranian leader responsible for the Iranian military efforts in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Yemen. If anything, the Americans underestimated the importance of Soleimani because Iran had no one with the leadership and organizational skills, as well as the trust of so many Iranian and foreign leaders, to replace him. Even the Iranians were surprised at how important Soleimani was and how impossible it was to replace him quickly, if ever.

When Soleimani was killed outside the Baghdad Airport, he was in the company of several senior Iraqi militia leaders that were loyal to Iran. These men were killed by the same missile that got Soleimani and their loss made Iranian threats and violence less effective in Iraq. Soleimani was missed elsewhere because he provided similar coordination for factions in nations where Iran had military or paramilitary operations. This includes Iraq as well as Syria, Lebanon, the Palestinian territories elsewhere. Iranian rulers are losing their foreign wars as well as control of Iran itself because of the sanctions and the loss of key enforcers like Soleimani. Getting the American sanctions lifted is a do or die situation.
LONDON & MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Panel for a Global Public Health Convention (PGPHC) expressed disappointment today over indications that the World Health Assembly is planning to postpone until November 2021 the decision to start preparing a new pandemic treaty. At a time when the world needs urgent action, a delay of any length undermines the momentum toward bringing countries together to ratify a global public health treaty or convention.

The draft resolution, which is currently under consideration at the WHA, calls for the Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO) to convene a special session of the WHA in autumn. In the meantime, a working group would assess the benefits of developing a WHO convention, or another instrument on pandemic preparedness and response.

The plan was for a resolution at the WHA to enable an intergovernmental working group, led by a Head of State, to start working on this treaty. Instead, it appears we will now have a decision to look at this again later this year. This is unacceptable, said Dame Barbara Stocking, Chair of the PGPHC, and President of Murray Edwards College, University of Cambridge. It seems that governments have not yet understood the ongoing risk we face. We ask our leaders to recognise that the wait and see approach they took in February 2020 which allowed the current pandemic to run rife, should not be taken again. We should not be waiting to see whether we will have a global treaty which will in any case take months to be agreed.

Despite the delay, Member States and other relevant stakeholders should take every opportunity to move the process forward before the special session of the WHA in November. They should come together and back the working group which will begin developing the outlines of an agreement that will be debated in autumn. Additionally, the UN General Assembly in September offers an important opportunity for Member States to debate key elements of the treaty and demonstrate strong backing for it by heads of state, along with opportunities at the upcoming G7 and G20 summits.

Covid-19 has affected every single person across the globe, whether in health, in the trials and emotional loss of lockdown, to pushing many millions of people into poverty and financial uncertainty. This is a moment when global leaders should come together in solidarity, not just to get us safely out of this pandemic, but to be much more prepared for the next one.

The Panel for a Global Public Health Convention (GPHC) is an independent coalition of global leaders working to strengthen the worlds ability to prevent, prepare, and respond to infectious disease outbreaks before they become widespread pandemics. The Panel was founded in 2020 in response to the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic with the aim of bridging critical gaps in the global public health architecture and policy frameworks by promulgating a new global public health treaty or convention in an effort to ensure another pandemic of such magnitude does not happen again. To learn more, visit www.gphcpanel.org, and follow us on Twitter @GPHC_Panel.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005808/en/

US MEDIA CONTACT:

Denys Nazarov

GPHC Communications Advisor

+1 202 503 4743

denys.nazarov@ahf.org

Source: Panel for a Global Public Health Convention
SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Escient Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a clinical-stage, industry-leading platform company developing Mas-related G Protein-Coupled Receptor (MRGPR)-targeted drugs to address serious, unserved medical needs across a broad range of therapeutic indications, today announced that Eric Deng, Ph.D., M.B.A., has joined the company as Vice President, Chemistry, Manufacturing and Controls (CMC) Operations.

Erics expertise will be instrumental in ensuring resources are aligned and performance standards are met as we continue to advance our first-in-class MRGPR programs through clinical development. Were excited to have him on the team, said Marcus Boehm, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer of Escient. His proven track record of building global product supply networks to successfully advance novel therapies from discovery to clinical development and commercialization will be invaluable to Escient as we advance our novel pipeline of MRGPR-targeted therapeutics in multiple indications.

Escient has a world-class team and a pipeline with expansive potential, giving us the unique opportunity to deliver first-in-class medicines addressing unserved medical needs across a variety of therapeutic areas, said Dr. Deng. Im excited to join them on their mission and help drive forward the drug discovery, preclinical development, clinical development, and eventually commercialization of our lead programs.

Dr. Deng has over 20 years of manufacturing and supply chain operations leadership experience in the biopharmaceutical industry at both emerging and multinational companies. Prior to joining Escient, Dr. Deng spent the past seven years at Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical leading supply chain, manufacturing, and cross-functional CMC teams, most recently as the Senior Director of Manufacturing Management and CMC Lead. Previously, he was a Business Unit Manager responsible for overall manufacturing and supply chain operations of a Bayer HealthCare business franchise. He also held operations leadership positions with Metrika, Johnson & Johnson, and Honeywell. Dr. Deng earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from The Ohio State University and was a Department of Energy Postdoctoral Fellow. Dr. Deng received his B.S. degree in Chemistry from Nankai University and an M.B.A. in Operations Management from University of Houston. He gained his Process Excellence Black Belt certification from Johnson & Johnson.

About Escient Pharmaceuticals

Escient Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage, industry-leading platform biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing first-in-class Mas-Related G Protein-Coupled Receptor (MRGPR)-targeted drugs to address serious, unserved medical needs across a broad range of therapeutic indications. Based in San Diego, Calif., Escient is led by an experienced team of biotechnology entrepreneurs with specific expertise in GPCR drug discovery and development and funded by top-tier life science investors, including The Column Group, 5AM Ventures, Sanofi Ventures, Cowen Healthcare Investors, Redmile Group, Perceptive Advisors, Osage University Partners and Altitude Life Science Ventures.

Visit www.escientpharma.com to learn more.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005227/en/

Cory Tromblee

Scient Public Relations

cory@scientpr.com

William Hodder

Escient Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

info@escientpharma.com

Source: Escient Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
CONCORD TOWNSHIP, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Ranpak Holdings Corp. (Ranpak) (NYSE: PACK), a leading provider of environmentally sustainable, systems-based, product protection solutions for e-commerce and industrial supply chains, today announced the pricing of a registered underwritten public offering of 5,000,000 shares of its Class A common stock at a public offering price of $21.00 per share, for gross proceeds of approximately $94.5 million to the Company and approximately $10.5 million to certain selling security holders of Ranpak (the Selling Security Holders). The offering consists of 4,500,000 shares being offered by Ranpak and 500,000 shares being offered by the Selling Security Holders. In addition, Ranpak granted the underwriter a 30-day option to purchase 750,000 additional shares, to cover over-allotments, if any. The offering is expected to close on June 1, 2021, subject to customary closing conditions.

Ranpak intends to use the net proceeds of the proposed offering for debt repayment and general corporate purposes. Ranpak will not receive any proceeds from the sale of the Class A common stock offered by the Selling Security Holders.

Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and Baird are acting as joint book-running managers and Craig-Hallum Capital Group, Evercore Group L.L.C. and CJS Securities are acting as co-managers for the proposed offering.

A registration statement on Form S-3 (File Nos. 333-249439 and 333-232105) relating to the shares of common stock of Ranpak to be sold in the proposed offering was declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) on May 18, 2021. A preliminary prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus relating to and describing the terms of the offering have been filed with the SEC and may be obtained by visiting EDGAR on the SECs website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus related to the offering may be obtained, when available, from Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, 200 West Street, New York, New York 10282-2198, Attention: Prospectus Department, Telephone: 866-471-2526, Email: Prospectus-ny@ny.email.gs.com or Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated, Attention: Syndicate Department, 777 East Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53202, by telephone at (800) 792-2473, or by email at syndicate@rwbaird.com.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor may there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

About Ranpak:

Founded in 1972, Ranpak's goal was to create the first environmentally responsible system to effectively protect products during shipment. The development and improvement of materials, systems and total solution concepts have earned Ranpak a reputation as an innovative leader in e-commerce and industrial supply chain solutions. Ranpak is headquartered in Concord Township, Ohio and has approximately 600 employees.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Although the forward-looking statements in this release reflect the good faith judgment of management, forward-looking statements are inherently subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to be materially different from those discussed in these forward-looking statements. Readers are urged to carefully review and consider the various disclosures made by the Company in the reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the risk factors that attempt to advise interested parties of the risks that may affect the Companys business, financial condition, results of operation and cash flows. If one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if the underlying assumptions prove incorrect, the Companys actual results may vary materially from those expected or projected. Readers are urged not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this release. The Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements in order to reflect any event or circumstance that may arise after the date of this release.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210526006164/en/

Investor Inquiries:

Bill Drew

ir@ranpak.com

Source: Ranpak Holdings Corp.
E2open Parent Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: ETWO), a leading network-based provider of a 100% cloud-based, mission-critical, end-to-end supply chain management platform, today announced that it will acquire BluJay Solutions, a leading cloud-based, logistics execution platform. Based on the price of E2opens Class A Common Stock at May 25, 2021 market close, the stock and cash transaction is valued at approximately $1.7 billion.

BluJay is an integrated SaaS platform with comprehensive solutions for Shippers, Logistics Service Providers (LSPs) and Freight Forwarders. BluJay provides a robust suite of logistics execution applications and a broad trade network of over 50k participants serving over 5,700 global customers. With an expansive ecosystem of suppliers, carriers and network partners, BluJay enables differentiated connectivity across all supply chain participants, resulting in industry leading visibility across its broad network. BluJays combination of data, network and applications plays a mission-critical role in logistics and distribution supply chains and drives significant ROI for customers.

I am thrilled to welcome the exceptional team and great customers of BluJay Solutions to E2open, said Michael Farlekas, president and chief executive officer at E2open. Combining E2opens end-to-end platform and large trading partner network with BluJays leading logistics execution software, we will provide more robust capabilities and value to our customers, unlocking a greater opportunity to accelerate our long-term growth. This transformative acquisition advances our strategy and is consistent with our approach to M&A over the last 5 years.

We are very excited about joining forces with E2open in this highly strategic combination, said Andrew Kirkwood, chief executive officer at BluJay Solutions. Together, we will deliver a more powerful supply chain software platform built upon the worlds largest global trade network.

Compelling strategic benefits to accelerate future organic growth

Creates leading, independent SaaS-based supply chain platform spanning supply chain planning and execution: The acquisition of BluJay will materially expand E2opens supply chain execution capabilities, especially in transportation management. Additionally, BluJay brings a highly complementary global trade management platform that encompasses customs declaration and filing to E2opens strong capabilities in compliance and tariffs. The acquisition further adds key direct-to-consumer offerings including last mile, parcel and dropship commerce.

The acquisition of BluJay will materially expand E2opens supply chain execution capabilities, especially in transportation management. Additionally, BluJay brings a highly complementary global trade management platform that encompasses customs declaration and filing to E2opens strong capabilities in compliance and tariffs. The acquisition further adds key direct-to-consumer offerings including last mile, parcel and dropship commerce. Increases global reach and TAM: BluJays truly global footprint, with customers and offices across EMEA and APAC, will strengthen E2opens global reach and ability to penetrate emerging markets with international leadership based in the UK. E2opens primarily enterprise customer base will also add a strong presence in the upper mid-market with BluJay, adding more than $9 billion to an already strong TAM opportunity in North America and Europe.

BluJays truly global footprint, with customers and offices across EMEA and APAC, will strengthen E2opens global reach and ability to penetrate emerging markets with international leadership based in the UK. E2opens primarily enterprise customer base will also add a strong presence in the upper mid-market with BluJay, adding more than $9 billion to an already strong TAM opportunity in North America and Europe. Complementary go-to-market strengths: BluJays go-to-market strategy emphasizes new client acquisition. E2opens go-to-market has historically focused on cross-selling and upselling products to existing customers. The combination leverages each companys respective strengths to broaden the pool of cross-sell opportunities and significantly accelerates E2opens strategic new logo initiative. Moreover, BluJays TMS solution provides E2open with another significant tip of the spear product to accelerate new logo growth for the combined company.

BluJays go-to-market strategy emphasizes new client acquisition. E2opens go-to-market has historically focused on cross-selling and upselling products to existing customers. The combination leverages each companys respective strengths to broaden the pool of cross-sell opportunities and significantly accelerates E2opens strategic new logo initiative. Moreover, BluJays TMS solution provides E2open with another significant tip of the spear product to accelerate new logo growth for the combined company. Enhances E2opens leading supply chain networks: E2open operates a leading trade network with over 220k network participants. BluJay augments E2opens network to include over-the-road trucking and complementary air transportation, enabling complete visibility from truckloads to intermodal shipments. Further, BluJays global transportation network adds 50k network participants, $40 billion in annual commerce spend and 1.9 billion annual transactions to E2opens existing network.

E2open operates a leading trade network with over 220k network participants. BluJay augments E2opens network to include over-the-road trucking and complementary air transportation, enabling complete visibility from truckloads to intermodal shipments. Further, BluJays global transportation network adds 50k network participants, $40 billion in annual commerce spend and 1.9 billion annual transactions to E2opens existing network. Broadens E2opens analytics offerings: E2opens network and data will be expanded by BluJays trade network with over 50k network participants, enabling greater data collection and insights for customers across freight and visibility for better business decision-making. This will substantially increase the monetization opportunity that E2open already has today for its data.

Financially compelling transaction

Increased scale as the pro forma company expects to deliver annualized pro forma revenue of over $550 million and adjusted EBITDA greater than $200 million post completion of the combination and the realization of acquisition-related cost synergies

The combined company will deliver pro forma organic revenue growth greater than 10% in fiscal year 2023

E2open expects mid-teens FCF per share accretion on a pro forma basis over the next 12 months

$20 million of projected run-rate cost savings, reflecting 5% of combined company costs

Accelerates organic revenue growth and higher net retention post combination due to significant cross-sell opportunities

BluJay is a transformative acquisition for E2open: it is strategic, it is financially compelling, and it further accelerates organic growth for the combined company, said Chinh Chu, Chairman of the Board at E2open. It is a rare opportunity to combine two cloud-based, supply chain management software platforms with complementary networks.

The combination of E2open and BluJay is a natural next step for both businesses, creating a combined company with leading capabilities from planning through execution, said Deep Shah, Co-President at Francisco Partners. The fit between our respective product offerings, shared vision for the future of the industry, and alignment on core values makes for a combined future that we are very excited to be a part of through our substantial equity consideration in the combination.

Transaction Details

Pursuant to the purchase agreement, E2open will acquire BluJay Solutions for an aggregate of 72.4m shares of Class A Common Stock and ~$760m of cash, which includes the repayment of debt, subject to adjustments for certain items enumerated in the purchase agreement. Based on the price of E2opens Class A Common Stock at May 25, 2021 market close, the stock and cash transaction is valued at approximately $1.7 billion. The actual transaction value will change based on fluctuations in the price of E2opens common stock, and is subject to certain adjustments as set forth in the purchase agreement. As a result, current BluJay shareholders will hold approximately 22% pro forma ownership of E2open following the consummation of the transaction. Certain of BluJays current shareholders, Francisco Partners and Temasek, will have the right to appoint one director each to the E2open board following closing subject to the terms of the agreement.

In order to finance the transaction, E2open has secured $300 million in a common equity PIPE from institutional investors including Neuberger Berman, The WindAcre Partnership, Eminence Capital and XN, and a $380 million fully committed incremental tack-on to its first lien term loan. Pro forma net leverage is expected to be approximately 4.1x fiscal year 2022 EBITDA at closing and approximately 3.5x by the end of fiscal year 2022.

The transaction was unanimously approved by E2opens board of directors and is expected to close during the calendar year third quarter of 2021 subject to regulatory approvals, required approval of E2open shareholders and other customary closing conditions. Additional details about the agreement will be contained in a Current Report on a Form 8-K to be filed by E2open with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC). For other related investor relations disclosures and presentation materials, please visit the investor relations section at www.e2open.com.

Advisors

Credit Suisse is serving as lead financial advisor to E2open, and sole equity capital markets advisor and placement agent to E2open. Rothschild & Co is serving as financial advisor and delivering a fairness opinion to E2open and its Board of Directors. Berenson & Company is serving as financial advisor to E2open and Kirkland & Ellis LLP is serving as legal advisor to E2open.

Goldman Sachs is serving as exclusive financial advisor to BluJay, Lazard is serving as capital markets advisor to BluJay, and Latham & Watkins LLP is serving as legal advisor to BluJay.

Goldman Sachs and Credit Suisse have provided committed debt financing in support of the transaction.

Conference call

E2open will host a conference call and webcast to discuss the strategic and operating aspects of the BluJay Solutions combination on Thursday, May 27th at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time. To access the conference call, dial 855-450-0069 (U.S. domestic) or 236-714-3500 (international). The conference ID is 7766663. The webcast will be available live on the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at www.e2open.com.

An audio replay of the call can also be accessed through June 3, 2021 at 800-585-8367 (U.S. domestic) or 416-621-4642 (international). The replay pass code is 7766663. In addition, an archived webcast will be available an hour after the completion of the call on the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at www.e2open.com.
Toronto, Ontario, May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) is proud to announce the winner of its 2021 Award of Distinction.

During the HRPA 2021 Annual Meeting, Ernest Ogunleye, CPHR, Owner & Principal Consultant, EON Performance Solutions, received the Distinguished Human Resources Professional Award, a prestigious honorary title under the HRPA Awards of Distinction.

The long-time HR professional was presented with the award for his commitment to learning and mentoring the future generation of leaders. He was also recognized for his leadership in building strategic coalitions aimed to promote the importance of the human resources profession to business leaders and the wider public.

"Congratulations to our 2021 Awards of Distinction recipient, Ernest Ogunleye," said Louise Taylor Green, CEO of HRPA. "We are beyond grateful to work with such outstanding leaders like Ernest, who continue to make an indelible impact in the HR profession and the world at large.

The HRPA Awards of Distinction are awarded each year to HRPA members who have exemplified excellence in the HR field. Recipients are rewarded for consistently demonstrating their skill, professionalism, dedication, and hard work in their profession.

There are four categories in the HRPA Awards of Distinction including the Distinguished Human Resources Professional Award, which is presented to academics who have made an exceptional contribution to the HR profession. To learn more about the HRPA Awards of Distinction, visit here.

About HRPA

At the Human Resources Professionals Association, we believe that better HR makes business better. The HRPA ensures that our 24,000 members and students have the most up-to-date tools and the advanced skills to lead our workplaces into the future. We regulate HR professionals in the public interest. Our members are held to the provinces highest standards, so Ontario workplaces can trust us to help unlock business growth and optimize employee potential. Learn more at www.hrpa.ca.

Public Relations & Communications Human Resources Professionals Association communications@hrpa.ca

Source: Human Resources Professionals Association
Urban property sector following demographic push, pull

From:ChinaDaily | 2021-05-27 09:50

Demand for new homes is rising steadily in top Chinese cities and major city clusters, thanks to the country's rapid urbanization pace, according to the country's recently released seventh national census, experts said.

The census, the largest of its kind across the world, was conducted last year and published on May 11.According to the National Bureau of Statistics, the number of people on the Chinese mainland currently stands at 1.41 billion, up 5.38 percent from the previous census conducted in 2010.

In total, about 370 million people are living and working in cities outside of their hometowns, up 69.73 percent from a decade ago.

The growing migrant population has also shed light on the country's future urban living patterns, with a higher proportion of people opting for houses in major cities and their surrounding areas, including city clusters within the Yangtze River Delta region, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, as well as the Chengdu-Chongqing dual city cluster, said Xu Xiaole, chief market analyst with Beike Research Institute.

The higher proportion of younger people migrating to the larger cities will lead to a significant increase in new home demand, as these people settle down, get married and have children, said Yan Yuejin, director of the Shanghai-based E-house China Research and Development Institution.

The number of people aged 14 and below rose by 1.35 percentage points in the last 10 years and accounted for 17.95 percent of the nation's total population. The number of people in urban areas aged between 35 and 60 is expected to increase by 5 percentage points in the next decade, fueling additional demand for homes, Xu said.

The higher population, especially in the 60 years and above age group, which grew by 5.4 percentage points from 2010, has triggered demand for apartments that are in convenient locations with necessary facilities and access to retail outlets as well as eldercare facilities, Yan said.

Experts also expect greater demand for small homes as an increasing number of young people are choosing to stay single or delay their marriage. A decade ago, an average Chinese family had 3.1 members, while the latest census puts it at 2.62 members per family.

Taking all the factors into consideration, over the next 10 years, about 1.3 billion square meters of gross floor area for new homes will be sold every year, said Xu. Existing home sales during the same period are set to expand from 6 trillion yuan ($930 billion) at present to 10 trillion yuan.

The demographic changes will also affect housing demand on a regional basis, experts said.

East China, which has seen rapid urbanization in the last decade, is now one of the most preferred locations in the country for real estate purchases. Looking forward, development of such areas will continue to sustain urbanization as more people relocate to these regions for a better living and working environment, Yan said.

Central China, where the local infrastructure is seeing steady improvement, is another area that is expected to see a lot of investment in the future.

The census results have also indicated opportunities as well as challenges for different regions in the country.

East China not only accounted for the biggest chunk of the nation's population, but also saw its weighting in the nation's population rise by 2.15 percentage points over the levels in 2010.

This is in stark contrast to Northeast China, whose residents accounted for the lowest proportion of the Chinese population, with their weighting falling by 1.2 percentage points from a decade ago.

Thirteen of the 31 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities in the Chinese mainland saw their weighting in the total population decline. Liaoning, Jilin, Heilongjiang, Shanxi and Gansu provinces as well as the Inner Mongolia autonomous region, reported actual population declines.

All of these factors will undermine demand in the local property markets, said a report published by consultancy TopSur.
In the Phase 3 LIBERTY 1 and LIBERTY 2 studies, MYFEMBREE demonstrated 72.1% and 71.2% response rates in menstrual blood loss (MBL) at Week 24, with MBL reductions of 82.0% and 84.3% from baseline

Myovant and Pfizer will jointly commercialize MYFEMBREE, with product availability expected in June



Myovant to host conference call and webcast on Friday, May 28, 2021 at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time / 5:30 a.m. Pacific Time



BASEL, Switzerland and NEW YORK, May 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Myovant Sciences (NYSE: MYOV) and Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved MYFEMBREE (relugolix 40 mg, estradiol 1 mg, and norethindrone acetate 0.5 mg), the first once-daily treatment for the management of heavy menstrual bleeding associated with uterine fibroids in premenopausal women, with a treatment duration of up to 24 months. The approval is supported by efficacy and safety data from the Phase 3 LIBERTY 1 and LIBERTY 2 studies, which were published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Under the terms of their previously announced collaboration, Myovant and Pfizer will jointly commercialize MYFEMBREE in the U.S. MYFEMBREE is expected to be available in June 2021.

Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on the image or link below:

With MYFEMBREE, we can offer women with uterine fibroids a non-invasive treatment that provides clinically meaningful symptom relief for heavy menstrual bleeding with one pill, once-a-day, said Ayman Al-Hendy, M.D., Ph.D., Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, and LIBERTY Program Steering Committee Member. The FDA approval of MYFEMBREE represents a significant milestone in expanding treatment options for uterine fibroids, a chronic and debilitating disease for many women in the U.S.

Uterine fibroids affect millions of women in the U.S. and account for over 250,000 hysterectomies each year, with heavy menstrual bleeding being one of the most bothersome symptoms, said David Marek, Chief Executive Officer of Myovant Sciences, Inc. The approval of MYFEMBREE represents the second FDA product approval for Myovant in less than one year. This is an important step forward as we seek to redefine care for women and for men, not only through new medicines but through continued collaboration with the community.

MYFEMBREEs approval is a testament to the shared commitment between Myovant and Pfizer to support women living with uterine fibroids, said Nick Lagunowich, Global President, Internal Medicine at Pfizer. We are excited to offer this new treatment option which will help provide much needed symptom relief with the convenience of an oral, once-daily tablet.

The Phase 3 LIBERTY studies each met the primary endpoint, with 72.1% and 71.2% of women in the MYFEMBREE groups achieving the responder criteria compared with 16.8% and 14.7% of women in the placebo groups at Week 24, respectively (both p

Myovant and Pfizer are committed to supporting women in the U.S. who are prescribed MYFEMBREE throughout their treatment journeys. The MYFEMBREE Support Program provides services, including insurance benefits checks, prior authorization support, co-pay support for commercially insured patients, and patient assistance for qualifying uninsured patients. Program terms and conditions apply. For more information and additional resources, please contact 833-MYFEMBREE (833-693-3627), 8 a.m.8 p.m. Eastern Time, MondayFriday.

Myovant Conference Call and Webcast

Myovant will hold a conference call on Friday, May 28, 2021 at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time / 5:30 a.m. Pacific Time to discuss the FDA approval of MYFEMBREE. Investors and the general public may access a live webcast of the call by visiting the investor relations page of Myovants website at investors.myovant.com. Investors and analysts may also participate in the conference call by dialing 1-800-532-3746 in the U.S. or +1-470-495-9166 from outside the U.S. A replay of the webcast will be archived on Myovants investor relations website.

About Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous tumors that develop in or on the muscular walls of the uterus and are among the most common reproductive tract tumors in women. In addition to an individual's genetic predisposition, estrogens are well known to play an important role in the regulation of fibroid growth.

Although uterine fibroids are benign tumors, they can cause debilitating symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding (frequently resulting in anemia and fatigue), pain (including painful periods, abdominal pain, painful intercourse, backache), increased abdominal girth and bloating, urinary frequency or retention, constipation, pregnancy loss, and, in some cases, infertility. These symptoms can also lead to loss of productivity at work, limitations in normal activities of daily living, and social embarrassment.

An estimated five million women in the U.S. suffer from symptoms of uterine fibroids, and an estimated three million women are inadequately treated by current medical therapy and require further treatment.

About MYFEMBREE

MYFEMBREE (relugolix 40 mg, estradiol 1 mg, and norethindrone acetate 0.5 mg) is the first once-daily treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding associated with uterine fibroids in premenopausal women approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, with a treatment duration of up to 24 months. MYFEMBREE contains relugolix, which reduces the amount of estrogen (and other hormones) produced by ovaries, estradiol (an estrogen) which may reduce the risk of bone loss, and norethindrone acetate (a progestin) which is necessary when women with a uterus (womb) take estrogen.

For full prescribing information including Boxed Warning and patient information, please click here.

Indications and Usage

MYFEMBREE is indicated for the management of heavy menstrual bleeding associated with uterine leiomyomas (fibroids) in premenopausal women. Limitations of Use : Use of MYFEMBREE should be limited to 24 months due to the risk of continued bone loss which may not be reversible.

Important Safety Information

BOXED WARNING: THROMBOEMBOLIC DISORDERS AND VASCULAR EVENTS

Estrogen and progestin combination products, including MYFEMBREE, increase the risk of thrombotic or thromboembolic disorders including pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, stroke and myocardial infarction, especially in women at increased risk for these events.

MYFEMBREE is contraindicated in women with current or a history of thrombotic or thromboembolic disorders and in women at increased risk for these events, including women over 35 years of age who smoke or women with uncontrolled hypertension.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

MYFEMBREE is contraindicated in women with any of the following: high risk of arterial, venous thrombotic, or thromboembolic disorder; pregnancy; known osteoporosis; current or history of breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive malignancies; known hepatic impairment or disease; undiagnosed abnormal uterine bleeding; known hypersensitivity to components of MYFEMBREE.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Thromboembolic Disorders: Discontinue immediately if an arterial or venous thrombotic, cardiovascular, or cerebrovascular event occurs or is suspected. Discontinue at least 4 to 6 weeks before surgery associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism, or during periods of prolonged immobilization, if feasible. Discontinue immediately if there is sudden unexplained partial or complete loss of vision, proptosis, diplopia, papilledema, or retinal vascular lesions and evaluate for retinal vein thrombosis as these have been reported with estrogens and progestins.

Bone Loss: MYFEMBREE may cause a decrease in bone mineral density (BMD) in some patients, which may be greater with increasing duration of use and may not be completely reversible after stopping treatment. Consider the benefits and risks in patients with a history of low trauma fracture or risk factors for osteoporosis or bone loss, including medications that may decrease BMD. Assessment of BMD by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is recommended at baseline and periodically thereafter. Consider discontinuing MYFEMBREE if the risk of bone loss exceeds the potential benefit.

Hormone-Sensitive Malignancies: Discontinue MYFEMBREE if a hormone-sensitive malignancy is diagnosed. Surveillance measures in accordance with standard of care, such as breast examinations and mammography are recommended. Use of estrogen alone or estrogen plus progestin has resulted in abnormal mammograms requiring further evaluation.

Depression, Mood Disorders, and Suicidal Ideation: Promptly evaluate patients with mood changes and depressive symptoms including shortly after initiating treatment, to determine whether the risks of continued therapy outweigh the benefits. Patients with new or worsening depression, anxiety, or other mood changes should be referred to a mental health professional, as appropriate. Advise patients to seek immediate medical attention for suicidal ideation and behavior and reevaluate the benefits and risks of continuing MYFEMBREE.

Hepatic Impairment and Transaminase Elevations: Steroid hormones may be poorly metabolized in these patients. Instruct women to promptly seek medical attention for symptoms or signs that may reflect liver injury, such as jaundice or right upper abdominal pain. Acute liver test abnormalities may necessitate the discontinuation of MYFEMBREE use until the liver tests return to normal and MYFEMBREE causation has been excluded.

Gallbladder Disease or History of Cholestatic Jaundice: Discontinue MYFEMBREE if signs or symptoms of gallbladder disease or jaundice occur. For women with a history of cholestatic jaundice associated with past estrogen use or with pregnancy, assess the risk-benefit of continuing therapy. Studies among estrogen users suggest a small increased relative risk of developing gallbladder disease.

Elevated Blood Pressure: For women with well-controlled hypertension, monitor blood pressure and stop MYFEMBREE if blood pressure rises significantly.

Change in Menstrual Bleeding Pattern and Reduced Ability to Recognize Pregnancy: Advise women to use non-hormonal contraception during treatment and for one week after discontinuing MYFEMBREE. Avoid concomitant use of hormonal contraceptives. MYFEMBREE may delay the ability to recognize pregnancy because it alters menstrual bleeding. Perform testing if pregnancy is suspected and discontinue MYFEMBREE if pregnancy is confirmed.

Risk of Early Pregnancy Loss: MYFEMBREE can cause early pregnancy loss. Exclude pregnancy before initiating and advise women to use effective non-hormonal contraception.

Uterine Fibroid Prolapse or Expulsion: Advise women with known or suspected submucosal uterine fibroids about the possibility of uterine fibroid prolapse or expulsion and instruct them to contact their physician if severe bleeding and/or cramping occurs.

Alopecia: Alopecia, hair loss, and hair thinning were reported in phase 3 trials with MYFEMBREE. Consider discontinuing MYFEMBREE if hair loss becomes a concern. Whether the hair loss is reversible is unknown.

Effects on Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolism: More frequent monitoring in MYFEMBREE-treated women with prediabetes and diabetes may be necessary. MYFEMBREE may decrease glucose tolerance and result in increased blood glucose concentrations. Monitor lipid levels and consider discontinuing if hypercholesterolemia or hypertriglyceridemia worsens. In women with pre-existing hypertriglyceridemia, estrogen therapy may be associated with elevations in triglycerides levels leading to pancreatitis. Use of MYFEMBREE is associated with increases in total cholesterol and LDL-C.

Effect on Other Laboratory Results: Patients with hypothyroidism and hypoadrenalism may require higher doses of thyroid hormone or cortisol replacement therapy. Use of estrogen and progestin combinations may raise serum concentrations of binding proteins (e.g., thyroid-binding globulin, corticosteroid-binding globulin), which may reduce free thyroid or corticosteroid hormone levels. Use of estrogen and progestin may also affect the levels of sex hormone-binding globulin, and coagulation factors.

Hypersensitivity Reactions: Immediately discontinue MYFEMBREE if a hypersensitivity reaction occurs.

ADVERSE REACTIONS

Most common adverse reactions for MYFEMBREE (incidence 3% and greater than placebo) were hot flush/hyperhidrosis/night sweats, abnormal uterine bleeding, alopecia, and decreased libido. These are not all the possible side effects of MYFEMBREE.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

P-gp Inhibitors: Avoid use of MYFEMBREE with oral P-gp inhibitors. If use is unavoidable, take MYFEMBREE first, separate dosing by at least 6 hours, and monitor patients for adverse reactions.

Combined P-gp and Strong CYP3A Inducers: Avoid use of MYFEMBREE with combined P-gp and strong CYP3A inducers.

LACTATION

Advise women not to breastfeed while taking MYFEMBREE.

About Myovant Sciences

Myovant Sciences aspires to redefine care for women and for men through purpose-driven science, empowering medicines, and transformative advocacy. Founded in 2016, we have two FDA-approved products. ORGOVYX (relugolix) was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2020 as the first and only oral gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor antagonist for the treatment of adult patients with advanced prostate cancer, and relugolix is also under regulatory review in Europe for men with advanced prostate cancer. MYFEMBREE (relugolix 40 mg, estradiol 1 mg, and norethindrone acetate 0.5 mg) was approved in the U.S. in 2021 as the first once-daily treatment for the management of heavy menstrual bleeding associated with uterine fibroids in premenopausal women. Relugolix combination tablet (relugolix 40 mg, estradiol 1 mg, and norethindrone acetate 0.5 mg) is under regulatory review in Europe for women with uterine fibroids, has completed Phase 3 registration-enabling studies for women with endometriosis, and is being assessed for contraceptive efficacy in healthy women ages 18-35 years who are at risk for pregnancy. We are also developing MVT-602, an oligopeptide kisspeptin-1 receptor agonist, which has completed a Phase 2a study for female infertility as part of assisted reproduction. Sumitovant Biopharma, Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd., is our majority shareholder. For more information, please visit our website at www.myovant.com. Follow @Myovant on Twitter and LinkedIn.

About Pfizer: Breakthroughs That Change Patients Lives

At Pfizer, we apply science and our global resources to bring therapies to people that extend and significantly improve their lives. We strive to set the standard for quality, safety and value in the discovery, development and manufacture of health care products, including innovative medicines and vaccines. Every day, Pfizer colleagues work across developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments and cures that challenge the most feared diseases of our time. Consistent with our responsibility as one of the world's premier innovative biopharmaceutical companies, we collaborate with health care providers, governments and local communities to support and expand access to reliable, affordable health care around the world. For more than 170 years, we have worked to make a difference for all who rely on us. We routinely post information that may be important to investors on our website at www.Pfizer.com. In addition, to learn more, please visit us on www.Pfizer.com and follow us on Twitter at @Pfizer and @Pfizer News, LinkedIn, YouTube and like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/Pfizer.

Myovant Sciences Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this press release, forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, all statements reflecting Myovant Sciences expectations, including: statements regarding Myovants aspiration to redefine care for women and for men; Myovants expectations regarding the potential benefits of MYFEMBREE; Myovants expectations regarding the potential commercial launch of MYFEMBREE by Myovant and Pfizer in the United States; Myovants expectation that MYFEMBREE will become available in June 2021; the plan to offer a MYFEMBREE support program for patients; and the features of such program.

Myovant Sciences forward-looking statements are based on managements current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors known and unknown that could cause actual results and the timing of certain events to differ materially from future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including unforeseen circumstances or other disruptions to normal business operations arising from or related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Myovant Sciences cannot assure you that the events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or occur and actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Factors that could materially affect Myovant Sciences operations and future prospects or which could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations include, but are not limited to the risks and uncertainties listed in Myovant Sciences filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including under the heading Risk Factors in Myovant Sciences Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on May 11, 2021, as such risk factors may be amended, supplemented or superseded from time to time. These risks are not exhaustive. New risk factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for Myovant Sciences management to predict all risk factors, nor can Myovant Sciences assess the impact of all factors on its business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements in this press release, which speak only as of the date hereof, and, except as required by law, Myovant Sciences undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements.

Pfizer Disclosure Notice

The information contained in this release is as of May 26, 2021. Pfizer assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this release as the result of new information or future events or developments.

This release contains forward-looking information about MYFEMBREE (relugolix 40 mg, estradiol 1 mg, and norethindrone acetate 0.5 mg) for the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding associated with uterine fibroids in premenopausal women, and a collaboration between Pfizer and Myovant Sciences to develop and commercialize relugolix in advanced prostate cancer and womens health, including their potential benefits, that involves substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Risks and uncertainties include, among other things, uncertainties regarding the commercial success of MYFEMBREE; the uncertainties inherent in research and development, including the ability to meet anticipated clinical endpoints, commencement and/or completion dates for clinical trials, regulatory submission dates, regulatory approval dates and/or launch dates, as well as the possibility of unfavorable new clinical data and further analyses of existing clinical data; the risk that clinical trial data are subject to differing interpretations and assessments by regulatory authorities; whether regulatory authorities will be satisfied with the design of and results from the clinical studies; whether and when applications for MYFEMBREE may be filed in any other jurisdictions for any potential indications for MYFEMBREE; whether and when regulatory authorities in any other jurisdictions may approve any such applications for MYFEMBREE that may be pending or filed, which will depend on myriad factors, including making a determination as to whether the products benefits outweigh its known risks and determination of the products efficacy and, if approved, whether MYFEMBREE will be commercially successful; decisions by regulatory authorities impacting labeling, manufacturing processes, safety and/or other matters that could affect the availability or commercial potential of MYFEMBREE; whether our collaboration with Myovant Sciences will be successful; uncertainties regarding the impact of COVID-19 on Pfizers business, operations and financial results; and competitive developments.

A further description of risks and uncertainties can be found in Pfizers Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 and in its subsequent reports on Form 10-Q, including in the sections thereof captioned Risk Factors and Forward-Looking Information and Factors That May Affect Future Results, as well as in its subsequent reports on Form 8-K, all of which are filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and available at www.sec.gov and www.pfizer.com.

Myovant Sciences Contacts

Ryan Crowe, Investors

+1 (650) 781-9106

investors@myovant.com

Albert Liao, Media

+1 (650) 410-3055

media@myovant.com

Pfizer Contacts

Media Relations

Steve Danehy

+1 (212) 733-1538

PfizerMediaRelations@pfizer.com

Investor Relations

Chuck Triano

+1 (212) 733-3901

Charles.E.Triano@Pfizer.com
Silver State Equality, Nevadas statewide LGBTQ+ civil rights organization and a partner of the Nevada HIV Modernization Coalition, praised Nevada legislators Wednesday for their bipartisan passage of legislation that modernizes Nevadas HIV criminal laws. Senate Bill (SB) 275, introduced by Sen. Dallas Harris, won approval with a unanimous vote in the Nevada Senate and by a 26-15 vote in the Assembly. The bill now moves to the Governor for his signature. The bill repeals a Nevada statute that makes it a felony for someone who has tested positive for HIV to intentionally, knowingly or willfully engage in conduct that is intended or likely to transmit the disease. Repealing that statute means a person who has contracted HIV and who engaged in such behavior would instead be given a warning as their first offense and, after a second offense, would be guilty of a misdemeanor  a punishment that is consistent with the treatment of other communicable diseases. The bipartisan show of support impressed HIV activists who have been advocating for years to reform state laws that criminalize HIV with the goal of ensuring they are sync with advances in modern medicine that make transmission of the virus impossible. Silver State Equality released the following statement from State Director Andre C. Wade, who  along with Sen. Harris  serves as Co-Chair of the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services Advisory Task Force on HIV Exposure Modernization: We are extremely pleased with the passage of SB 275 via a strong bipartisan vote. This action will advance the fight against HIV transmission and help to remove HIV stigma that was perpetuated by outdated criminal laws that discouraged disclosure, and thereby testing, treatment and the use of other preventative measures. Even though changing these outdated, ineffective and discriminatory laws is simply common-sense progress, this is a huge move in the right direction. Its passage shows that the years of advocating around this issue are paying off. Our legislators and Nevada citizenry are beginning to understand that the old laws were born out of an era when evidence-based knowledge about HIV risk, transmission and treatment were exceedingly limited. Thank you to the Nevada Legislature, especially Senator Dallas Harris, who authored SB275, and for keeping Nevada at the forefront of LGBTQ+ and civil rights reform. Senator Harris, Co-Chair of the Advisory Task Force on HIV Exposure Modernization, said: The bipartisan passage of this bill reverses practices that were put in place during the 1980s AIDS epidemic and have proven ineffective and counterproductive from a public health perspective. The old laws also disproportionately affected already marginalized groups, including people of color and LGBTQ+ people. Passage of SB275 helps to remove the statutory stigma that was intentionally placed into our laws that's done nothing but harm to those who contracted HIV. According to a recent report by the UCLA Williams Institute, which analyzed data from the state of Nevada, between 2011 and 2020, arrests for HIV crimes were double the amount from the previous decade and arrests for HIV crimes fell disproportionately on black Nevadans. Black people are 10 percent of Nevadas population and 28 percent of people living with HIV in the state, but 40 percent of those who have been arrested for HIV crimes. Connie Shearer, Co-Chair of the Nevada HIV Modernization Coalition said: "While its true that the majority of arrests under HIV criminal laws are reduced or dismissed, the outdated laws continued to perpetuate misinformation and antiquated myths, fears and opinions about HIV and how it is spread. With the passage of SB275, the Nevada Legislature chose science over outdated and irrational fear. For more information, visit www.silverstateequality.org/hiv. ###
May 27, 2021: Oslo, Norway, PGS has been awarded a significant acquisition contract in the Black Sea. The project is scheduled to start mid-August 2021 and be completed in November. There are options related to the contract with potential for the program to extend well into 2022.



The Ramform Vanguard will acquire the survey using an exploration configuration towing a 12x8000 meter spread.

We are pleased to be awarded this project, which is a solid contribution to our order book. We reactivated the Ramform Vanguard for the North Sea summer season because of increased seismic acquisition activity. The plan was to take her out of operation after the summer season. Sales leads and active tenders remain healthy, and this contract award is evidence of a continued positive market sentiment, which we believe will extend into the winter season. The Ramform Vanguard and her highly experienced crew, in combination with our proprietary GeoStreamer technology makes us well positioned to efficiently acquire high quality multi-sensor data to confidently de-risk subsurface exploration. says President & CEO in PGS, Rune Olav Pedersen.



FOR DETAILS, CONTACT: Bard Stenberg, VP IR & Corporate Communication

Mobile: +47 99 24 52 35





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PGS ASA and its subsidiaries (PGS or "the Company") is an integrated marine geophysical company that provides a broad range of seismic and reservoir services, including acquisition, imaging, interpretation, and field evaluation. The Company MultiClient data library is among the largest in the seismic industry, with modern 3D coverage in all significant offshore hydrocarbon provinces of the world. The Company operates on a worldwide basis with headquarters in Oslo, Norway and the PGS share is listed on the Oslo stock exchange (OSE: PGS). For more information on PGS visit www.pgs.com.

***

The information included herein contains certain forward-looking statements that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, projects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future. These statements are based on various assumptions made by the Company, which are beyond its control and are subject to certain additional risks and uncertainties. The Company is subject to a large number of risk factors including but not limited to the demand for seismic services, the demand for data from our multi-client data library, the attractiveness of our technology, unpredictable changes in governmental regulations affecting our markets and extreme weather conditions. For a further description of other relevant risk factors we refer to our Annual Report for 2020. As a result of these and other risk factors, actual events and our actual results may differ materially from those indicated in or implied by such forward-looking statements. The reservation is also made that inaccuracies or mistakes may occur in the information given above about current status of the Company or its business. Any reliance on the information above is at the risk of the reader, and PGS disclaims any and all liability in this respect.

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MONTREAL, May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Results from the latest Canadian Blood Services and Hema-Quebec studies, which together cover all 10 provinces, confirm that from coast-to-coast, Canadas overall levels of seroprevalence due to SARS-CoV-2 infection remained very low earlier this year, as the roll-out of vaccines started ramping up. The Canadian Blood Services study is supported by the Government of Canada, through its COVID-19 Immunity Task Force (CITF), whereas the Hema-Quebec study is supported by Quebecs public health institute, Institut national de sante publique du Quebec (INSPQ). All organizations have been working collaboratively to provide Canadians and policymakers with a comprehensive assessment of infection and immunity in Canada and to prepare the groundwork to track how long immunity through vaccination lasts.

Overall Canadian Seroprevalence and Regional Differences

Canadian Blood Services data, based on blood donors, show that the seroprevalence due to infection (the number of people who had antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 due to a past infection) in Canadian provinces excluding Quebec was 2.2% in January. In contrast, in Quebec, between January and March 2021, Hema-Quebec data indicate that seroprevalence from infections was 10.5%. In this province, the roll out of vaccination resulted in an increase of this number of up to 14.7% of the population with some immunity.

The low rates of seroprevalence across all 10 provinces show Canadians have been doing a great job following public health guidelines, says CITF Executive Director Dr. Tim Evans. But they also confirm that without high vaccine uptake, we are far from ending this pandemic.

The evolution of the pandemic has differed across the country, adds Dr. David Buckeridge, Scientific Lead, Data Management and Analysis for the CITF. That is clear from our statistical model that combines the results from Hema-Quebec and Canadian Blood Services with other epidemiological indicators. However, the bottom line is that the level of immunity from infection remains low in Canada.

The Atlantic provinces have been doing a tremendous job at protecting people from SARS-CoV-2, says Dr. Sheila OBrien, Associate Director of Epidemiology and Surveillance at Canadian Blood Services and the studys primary investigator. By January 2021, nearly a year into the pandemic, of those who donated blood, the data still shows an exceptionally low percentage of people with antibodies resulting from SARS-CoV-2 infection: 0% in Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland, 0.18% in New Brunswick, and 0.39% in Nova Scotia.

The Prairie provinces, in contrast, had the highest seroprevalence with Manitoba at 5.4%, Alberta at 4.0%, and Saskatchewan at 3.5% in January 2021. If we had looked at the percentage of Quebecers who had antibodies due to infection in January, our numbers might have been similar to the Prairie provinces data from Canadian Blood Services, says Dr. Marc Germain, Vice-President of Medical Affairs and Innovation at Hema-Quebec and the studys lead researcher.

In Ontario, 1.9% of blood donors had antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 due to a previous infection, and in British Columbia the percentage was 1.6%.

Reports Highlight At-Risk Communities

These reports also draw attention to the increased risk of infection among racialized communities, those living in poorer neighbourhoods, and young Canadians, aged 17-24, making them high priorities for vaccination and efforts to prevent the spread of infection, says Dr. Evans.

Increasing racial inequality in infection and vaccination

Data from both Canadian Blood Services and Hema-Quebec show the pandemic is affecting racialized Canadians twice as much as self-declared Caucasian Canadians.

Consistently, from the beginning of the pandemic, seroprevalence rates were higher among racialized populations compared to donors who self-identified as Caucasian. By January 2021, the seroprevalence was about double in racialized donors, comments Dr. OBrien.

A similar trend was observed in Quebec although further studies would be needed to get a better understanding of the situation. Non-vaccinated blood donors self-identifying as non-Caucasian had seroprevalence rates of 19.3%, whereas only 9.5% of non-vaccinated Caucasian blood donors had antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, states Dr. Germain. That means twice as many non-Caucasian blood donors had antibodies because of infection compared to Caucasians.

Increasing risk of infection in poorer neighbourhoods

In wave 1, seroprevalence was similar in neighbourhoods of all socioeconomic indexes. However, donors living in the most materially deprived neighbourhoods (based on postal codes) saw seroprevalence grow much more rapidly over time. In January 2021, seroprevalence among donors living in the most affluent neighbourhoods was 1.2%, while for those living in the most materially deprived areas was 4.0%.

In Quebec, a similar trend, although not as evident, was also observed. Whereas 15.0% of blood donors from the most affluent neighbourhoods had antibodies due to either an infection or vaccination, 17.3% of donors from the poorest neighbourhoods had antibodies.

Increased risk in the 17-24 age group

Canadian Blood Services found infection rates among donors aged 17-24 years-old increased significantly from 0.8% during wave 1 to 3.0% in November 2020 and to 3.5% in January 2021, says Dr. OBrien.

In Quebec, the 18-24 age group had the highest seroprevalence by far with 19% of blood donors in this age group having antibodies due to infection or vaccination, says Dr. Germain. That compares to a seroprevalence of 9.8% for the 60-69 age group.

The disproportionate number of infections in young people is likely a product of both their front-line work environments and more at-risk behaviours, says Dr. Evans. But this also reflects effective public health efforts to protect seniors in the second wave. The immediate priority is to encourage this younger age group to get vaccinated now that they are eligible in most provinces.

Serosurveys will help to determine how long immunity lasts

These serosurveys are confirming previous research that vaccines are working and producing antibodies in people. Were seeing the number of antibodies rising in people just days after being vaccinated, says Dr. Germain. Interestingly, both Canadian Blood Services and Hema-Quebec found that about 95% of donors who had been vaccinated at least two weeks before donating blood had vaccine-induced antibodies.

What we do not yet know is how long immunity from infection or from vaccines lasts, says Dr. Evans. Continuing these serosurveys of blood donors will signal when people in different age groups start to show less immunity, which may help to inform the best timing of the possible need for a booster vaccination.

In effect, Hema-Quebecs data shows antibodies are waning. Of the 109 people who tested positive for antibodies in wave 1, 32 of them no longer tested positive for antibodies 7-10 months later, says Dr. Germain. Thats a seroreversion rate of 29%. If we look at people who had more severe cases of COVID-19 and therefore likely had more antibodies at the time of infection, 14% lost their antibodies within a year. This shows that antibodies from infection do not necessarily remain in peoples blood forever and suggests boosters might be needed.

Blood donors as a measure of overall seroprevalence

These studies can play a pivotal role in helping public health authorities assess policies, says Dr. Evans. They allow us to see the real picture of the epidemic on a continuous basis. They are also useful in that they point to policy blind spots such as faster growth in infection in racialized communities.

Our serosurveys offer important insight into the effects of the pandemic in Canada, says Dr. Graham Sher, CEO of Canadian Blood Services. It is important to acknowledge that serosurveys based on blood donors do have limitations. Blood donors self-select to be blood donors and donation selection criteria ensure blood donors are healthy, so caution should be exercised in extrapolating findings to all adult Canadians. Other factors include that in some areas, access to a donation clinic or time to donate blood may be limited. There are also fewer young or elderly blood donors compared to the general population.

That said, since extra blood samples are systematically collected from each donation, as blood collection activities are held in most regions and as we have the laboratories to carry out tests, we are uniquely positioned to help inform public health authorities as they plan the next steps and phases of the pandemic, says Nathalie Fagnan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hema-Quebec.

Indeed, when we use statistical modelling to triangulate across available data, the estimates of seroprevalence from blood donors are consistent with other epidemiological indicators such as deaths, adds Dr. David Buckeridge. The blood bank estimates are extremely valuable for monitoring the overall seroprevalence in Canada.

About the Partnership

When the Government of Canada established the CITF in late April 2020, Canadian Blood Services and Hema-Quebec reached out to offer their assistance. Canadian Blood Services and Hema-Quebec routinely test blood donations and both organizations also regularly contribute to ethics-approved research studies like this one.

While the donation selection criteria ensure blood donors are healthy, caution should be exercised in extrapolating findings to all healthy adult Canadians because blood donors self-select to be blood donors, in some areas access to a donation clinic may be limited, and there are fewer elderly donors who donate blood compared to the general population.

About Canadian Blood Services

Canadian Blood Services is a not-for-profit charitable organization. Regulated by Health Canada as a biologics manufacturer and primarily funded by the provincial and territorial ministries of health, Canadian Blood Services operates with a national scope, infrastructure and governance that make it unique within Canadian healthcare. In the domain of blood, plasma, and stem cells, Canadian Blood Services provides services for patients on behalf of all provincial and territorial governments, except Quebec. The national transplant registry for interprovincial organ sharing and related programs reaches into all provinces and territories, as a biological lifeline for Canadians. For more information visit: blood.ca

About Hema-Quebec

Hema-Quebec acts as a supplier of human tissues intended for transplants (including cutaneous tissues, heart valves, and musculoskeletal tissues, such as tendons and bones), and makes them available to Quebec hospitals. Hema-Quebec retrieves and prepares eye tissues for use in cornea transplants.

Hema-Quebecs mission is to efficiently meet the needs of the Quebec population for quality blood and other biological products of human origin. Hema-Quebec encompasses 1,500 employees and nearly 255,000 blood, stem cell, mothers milk and human tissue donors, in addition to thousands of blood drive volunteers. Each year, Hema-Quebec delivers some 820,000 human biological products to Quebec hospitals to meet the needs of patients. For more information visit: hema-quebec.qc.ca

About the COVID-19 Immunity Task ForceThe Government of Canada established the COVID-19 Immunity Task Force in late April 2020. The Task Force is overseen by a Leadership Group of volunteers that includes leading Canadian scientists and experts from universities and healthcare homes across Canada who are focused on understanding the nature of immunity arising from the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. To that end, the CITF is supporting numerous studies to determine the extent of SARS-CoV-2 infection in Canada (in the general population as well as in specific communities and priority populations), understand the nature of immunity following infection, develop improved antibody testing methods, and help monitor the effectiveness and safety of vaccines as they are rolled out across Canada. The Task Force and its Secretariat accordingly work closely with a range of partners, including governments, public health agencies, institutions, health organizations, research teams, other task forces, and engages communities and stakeholders. Most recently, the Task Force has been asked to support vaccine surveillance, effectiveness and safety as part of its overall objective to generate data and ideas that inform interventions aimed at slowingand ultimately stoppingthe spread of SARS-CoV-2 in Canada. For more information visit: www.covid19immunitytaskforce.ca

MEDIA CONTACTS

COVID-19 Immunity Task Forcemedia@covid19immunitytaskforce.caRebecca BurnsCell: +1.438.871.8763Caroline PhaneufCell: +1.514.444.4532

Source: COVID-19 Immunity Task Force
25 May 2021, Limassol, Cyprus



SeaBird Exploration Plc announces its first quarter 2021 update and report.

Headlines Q1 2021

Rebranding and reorganizing into Green Energy Group (SBX Plc, The Company) to be proposed to the upcoming AGM

Rebranding marks a change in strategy and commitment to the green energy transition

Green Energy Group relocates from Cyprus to Norway

Offshore seismic business area maintains SeaBird Exploration name and becomes subsidiary of Green Energy Group

Completed listing of Green Minerals AS on Euronext Growth

Signed LOI with a consortium led by OSI Industries (UK) Ltd for a HEDSMS

First ever contract award in offshore wind

Awarded OBN source contract for 90 days in the Eastern Hemisphere

EBITDA negative $0.5 million on 33% utilization

Market conditions improving

The company will host a webcast at 08:00 CEST today. Please use the following link to join the webcast:

https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_YjRjNTg3MWItYzgyOS00NmZmLTk3MzQtMDk2YjhjNGE0MmUx%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22d7181576-1d07-4383-b8ac-6451ab33feae%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22ab38ca4b-0069-4d66-b5ab-30f40647842e%22%2c%22IsBroadcastMeeting%22%3atrue%7d&btype=a&role=a

For further queries contact:

Erik von Krogh

CFO

Mob: +47 930 38 075

All statements in this press release other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements and are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict, and are based upon assumptions as to future events that may not prove accurate. These factors include SeaBird`s reliance on a cyclical industry and the utilization of the company's vessels. Actual results may differ substantially from those expected or projected in the forward-looking statements.

This information is subject of the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.





Attachments
Pure Extracts Technologies (CSE: PULL) (OTC: PRXTF) (XFRA: A2QJAJ), a plant-based extraction company focused on cannabis, hemp and the rapidly emerging psychedelic sector, today announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Pure Extracts Manufacturing Corp., through its distribution partner, has received an initial purchase order for its edible cannabis gummies from the British Columbia Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB). Demand for Pure Extracts Pure Chews branded THC and CBD gummies is strong within the provincial markets, where the company anticipates that Fire Burst, like its U.S. counterpart, will be one of the top selling gummies. The edible gummie business is a material revenue producer for Pure Extracts, said CEO Ben Nikolaevsky. We are excited to have received our first purchase order for Fire Burst cinnamon flavored gummies from the wholesaler serving our home province of British Columbia, the LDB, adding them to our provincial distribution and look forward to a successful long-term relationship that leads to a satisfied customer base. With our proprietary manufacturing and packaging machine and our high-quality cannabis extracts, we have created the type of exceptional gummie products that consumers now demand.

To view the full press release, visit https://cnw.fm/FEusG

About Pure Extracts Technologies Corp.

Pure Extracts features an all-new, state-of-the-art processing facility located just 20 minutes north of world-famous Whistler, British Columbia. The bespoke facility has been constructed to European Union GMP standards aiming towards export sales of products and formulations, including those currently restricted in Canada, into European jurisdictions where they are legally available. Health Canada, under the Cannabis Act, granted Pure Extracts its Standard Processing License on Sept. 25, 2020. The companys stock began trading on the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) on Nov. 5, 2020. For more information, visit the companys website at www.PureExtractsCorp.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to PULL are available in the companys newsroom at https://cnw.fm/PULL

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CanadianCannabisWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in todays market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

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Red White & Bloom Brands (CSE: RWB) (OTCQX: RWBYF) today announced that it has completed the more comprehensive portion of Michigans two-step application process for marijuana licensing through a wholly owned operating subsidiary, RWB Michigan LLC. The Marijuana Regulatory Agency (MRA) pre-qualification represents authorization of the company to proceed with its full operational strategy in the state and complete the licensing process for its intended facilities. All application materials, background checks and payment of the application fees have been completed as part of the first step, which is pre-qualification. Michigan has been one of the highest bars of entry to any market weve entered. The regulatory body has done it right and all stakeholders should feel comfort with the level of scrutiny and governance we have to be compliant with as operators. This now provides a path for us to fully execute on our strategy of being the house of brands and being great channel partners to all of our distribution points as well as our own planned flagship retail locations, said RWB CEO and Chairman Brad Rogers. Entering Michigan provides RWB access to a market with a population of approximately 10 million people, and one where recent state monthly sales are over US$145 million. Given the number of documents and rigorous background check process, pre-qualification is the most significant regulatory hurdle in the Michigan marijuana licensing process.

To view the full press release, visit https://cnw.fm/fXce5

About Red White & Bloom Brands Inc.

The company is positioning itself to be one of the top three multistate cannabis operators active in the U.S. legal cannabis and hemp sector. RWB is predominantly focusing its investments on the major U.S. markets, including Michigan, Illinois, Massachusetts, Arizona, and California with respect to cannabis, and the U.S. and internationally for hemp-based CBD products. For more information about the company, visit www.RedWhiteBloom.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to RWBYF are available in the companys newsroom at https://cnw.fm/RWBYF

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in todays market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge.

To receive SMS text alerts from CannabisNewsWire, text CANNABIS to 21000 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

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MUNICH, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Boston Consulting Group (BCG), one of the world's leading management consulting firms, today announced that Christoph Schweizer has been elected the firm's next chief executive officer, effective October 1, 2021. Schweizer, 48, has been BCG's head of Central and Eastern Europe and the Middle East since 2017. The native of Germany has worked for BCG for over 23 years, including in BCG's New York office from 2007 to 2012, and is currently based in Munich. He has worked with clients on every continent.

Schweizer was elected in a process in which every one of the nearly 1,500 managing director & partners had an equal vote in the firm's CEO election, reflecting BCG's unique model of governance and partnership.

"I'm incredibly grateful to our partners for the trust they've placed in me to lead this world-class organization as we enter a new chapter of unprecedented change, challenge, and opportunity for our clients and for the world," said CEO-elect Schweizer. "It's an honor to build on Rich's incredible legacy of growth and expansion of capabilities, and in leading BCG with such integrity. As a firm, we will continue to support clients and global leaders in their moments of truth and in solving their most important and complex problems, to attract and champion diverse talent, and to tackle the world's toughest challenges, such as climate change."

Schweizer served as head of BCG's global practice areas from 2014 to 2017 and as global head of the firm's Health Care practice from 2011 to 2014. Since joining BCG in 1997, Schweizer has developed a proven track record of growing and transforming major international businesses, particularly across the health care industry and with private equity firms. Today, he is responsible for 23 countries that make up 30% of firm revenues, including 39 offices and several specialty businesses, such as BCG Platinion and INVERTO, and has successfully led and expanded BCG's reach and impact in the region. He has served as a member of the firm's Executive Committee and Operating Committee since 2014. He holds an MBA from the University of Texas at Austin and a BA from WHU  Otto Beisheim School of Management in Koblenz. Schweizer lives in Munich with his wife and three children.

Lesser to Become Global Chair

Schweizer, who will be BCG's seventh CEO in its 58-year history, will succeed Rich Lesser, who will become global chair after completing three terms and nearly nine years as CEO.

"As our next CEO, Christoph brings integrity, vision, and bold leadership to help our clients successfully navigate out of the global crisis and thrive in the new reality. I've had the pleasure of working closely with Christoph as he has successfully built strong, diverse teams and robust, resilient businesses in a wide range of countries around the world, as well as cutting-edge capabilities in our practices," said Lesser. "It's been an honor to lead BCG, and I look forward to continuing to serve our clients, our people, and our purpose as global chair."

Lesser has led a major expansion of BCG, tripling the firm's business and more than doubling its workforce to over 22,000 employees during his tenure. The firm has expanded its footprint from 42 to 51 countries, with a major emphasis on diversity and inclusion in all its markets. Today, women represent 44% of BCG's global staff and 35% of its Executive Committee; the number of female managing director & partners has grown at almost three times the rate of male managing director & partners.

Central to BCG's success has been a rapid expansion in capabilities. BCG is now a clear leader in helping companies capture value from digital and analytics. The firm launched and scaled BCG Digital Ventures to collaborate with clients to build and accelerate the growth of digital business, and BCG GAMMA to deliver cutting-edge advanced analytics, machine-learning, and AI capabilities. BCG Platinion brings industry-leading technology know-how to support digital transformations in partnership with BCG's sector and function teams. Today, client activities embedding technology, digital, and analytics now represent nearly 40% of BCG's revenues, up from less than 10% a decade ago.

Lesser has championed BCG's pioneering leadership on climate change, including its industry-first commitment to reach net-zero impact by 2030, the launch of the BCG Center for Climate & Sustainability, and serving as the consultancy partner for COP26. Lesser serves as the chief advisor to the World Economic Forum's Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders.

Lesser also oversaw the creation of BCG TURN, a rapid performance acceleration unit; the launch of BCG's now nearly $2 billion Principal Investor and Private Equity practice; the acquisition of BrightHouse, a pioneer in business purpose consulting; the launch of the BCG Henderson Institute think tank; and the launch of the Center for Public Impact, the not-for-profit foundation. He has accelerated BCG's strong investments in social impact through its long-standing global partnerships, like the World Food Programme, Save the Children, and the World Wildlife Fund, along with collaborations with hundreds of NGOs and other organizations across the world. For more on Rich Lesser, please visit: https://www.bcg.com/en-us/about/people/experts/rich-lesser.

BCG's current chairman, Hans-Paul Burkner, will assume the role of managing director and global chair emeritus.

For further information, please contact Eric Gregoire at +1 617 850 3783 or gregoire.eric@bcg.com.

About Boston Consulting GroupBoston Consulting Group partners with leaders in business and society to tackle their most important challenges and capture their greatest opportunities. BCG was the pioneer in business strategy when it was founded in 1963. Today, we work closely with clients to embrace a transformational approach aimed at benefiting all stakeholdersempowering organizations to grow, build sustainable competitive advantage, and drive positive societal impact.

Our diverse, global teams bring deep industry and functional expertise and a range of perspectives that question the status quo and spark change. BCG delivers solutions through leading-edge management consulting, technology and design, and corporate and digital ventures. We work in a uniquely collaborative model across the firm and throughout all levels of the client organization, fueled by the goal of helping our clients thrive and enabling them to make the world a better place.

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SOURCE Boston Consulting Group (BCG)
PHOENIX, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Kids today  are ambitious and generous!

In a tribute to its values around community service and lifelong learning, Desert Financial Foundation awarded $113,000 in college scholarships to deserving high school students and returning adult learners.

During graduation season in May, Desert Financial Credit Union hosted the 17th Annual Community Service and 3rd Annual Adult Learners Scholarship awards in intimate virtual ceremonies with friends and family. The Community Service Scholarship program is open annually to all members of the credit union and their related family members attending community colleges and universities in Arizona.

"Supporting education and lifelong learning is central to our mission of sharing success," said Jeff Meshey, President and CEO at Desert Financial. "We know investing in education builds strong communities and as an institution founded by educators, we're more than happy to do our part," he added.

During the ceremony for the Community Service Scholarship, 20 students received scholarships, which ranged from $2,500 to $10,000. Each student had completed at least 50 hours of community service, for a total of 2,641 hours. In addition, they enjoyed surprise gifts and announcements. Their scholarships would be eligible for renewal in their sophomore year with continued community service, and each student also received an iPad and other supplies to assist with college coursework.

"I've been a Girl Scout for many years and helped at homeless shelters and the Boys & Girls Clubs," said Amaya Jones, who just graduated from Deer Valley High School and plans to attend Northern Arizona University to study veterinary science. "Community service has helped to humble me and shape me into who I am today. The scholarship from Desert Financial will help take some of the weight off my parents' shoulders," she said.

Students interested in learning more about the application for the 2022 Community Service Scholarship program can visit the website for more details. The application will be open beginning in January 2022. Application requirements include:

Completing 50+ hours of community service in 2021

A 3.0+ cumulative GPA

Plan to attend an in-state college or university in the fall

Desert Financial member (or related to a member)

Show a demonstrated financial need based on Expected Family Contribution (EFC) from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Support for Adult Learners

Adult Learners Scholarship recipients included longtime Desert Financial Credit Union member and devoted family man, Dominic Turner, of Glendale. He received a $2,000 Adult Learners Scholarship, plus an extra $3,000 awarded in a random drawing before the ceremony for a total of $5,000 in scholarship funds.

Turner plans to pursue a doctoral degree in clinical psychology and hopes to serve the needs of those in his community, especially Black men.

"I mention my race only because mental health and counseling are undervalued in my community," he says. "My theory is because there are not enough individuals like myself in the field to represent the underrepresented. I want to serve the underserved and provide a face that is not normally seen in the mental health field," he said.

For a list of Adult Learners Scholarship recipents and their plans, click here. Contact Diane Meehl at 480-651-4654 to be connected to scholarship recipients for media stories about these ambitious adult learners.

About Desert Financial Credit Union

Celebrating more than 80 years in Arizona, Desert Financial is the state's most trusted local credit union with $7 billion in assets, 350,000+ members and 47 branches. Membership eligibility is open across Arizona with contactless solutions via eBranch, making it easy to call, click or come in. As a not-for-profit cooperative, Desert Financial takes pride in sharing success. In 2020, Desert Financial gave more than $5 million in COVID-19 relief and safety measures, donations, scholarships and Random Acts of Kindness to our members, community and team. In 2021, Desert Financial awarded $14 million to its members through the Member Giveback Bonus. Learn more about the credit union difference at desertfinancial.com or connect with us @desertfinancial.

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SOURCE Desert Financial Credit Union
NEW YORK, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A recently released study by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labor Organization (ILO) tracking loss of life and health associated with working long hours between 2000 and 2016 has shown that as many as 745,000 deaths from stroke and ischemic heart disease a year can be linked to individuals who worked at least 55 hours a week. The numbers of death grew by 29 percent from the first year of the study to the last. The findings come as several high-profile U.S. companies have recently made headlines with complaints from workers after extreme workweeks.

Pamela Wolf, J.D. senior employment legal analyst at Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S., can speak more on this topic and discuss what government and corporate oversight exists to try to combat these troubling trends.

Please find more information below.

WHAT: In a global analysis of the number of deaths and health related issues associated with working long hours, WHO and ILO estimate that in 2016, 398,000 people died from stroke and 347,000 from heart disease as a result of having worked at least 55 hours a week. Between 2000 and 2016, the number of deaths from heart disease due to working long hours increased by 42 percent, and from stroke by 19 percent.

WHY: In the U.S., the Fair Labor Standards Act requires covered employers to pay overtime wages for non-exempt employees who work over 40 hours in a workweek; some states, notably California, have additional employee protections. But for the large numbers of employees who are exempt under federal or state law, and who are not covered by a union or employment contract that contains additional protections, their employers may require them to work any number of hours. Most private sector employers operate under employment-at-willwhere employers are able to fire workers for any reason or no reason at allincluding refusal to work mandated hours.

WHO: Pam Wolf, J.D., senior employment law analyst at Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S. is available to offer analysis on:

- State lawmakers enacting new restrictions on maximum work hours; - Maximum work restrictions in new employment contracts; - Factors that impact employers immediately, such as employee dissatisfaction, public relations implications, and unionization vulnerabilities; - What we can expect to see from large companies in regard to this report, and more.

"I believe the WHO/ILO study is going to be eye-opening to many employers on the amount of hours their employees should be working and the dangerous tolls on any employee's health, safety, and productivity overall," says Pam Wolf, senior employment legal analyst at Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S. "This study points out many things that employers should keep in mind when considering reviewing and modifying current company policies, and may push regulators to reexamine federal and state labor legislation originally written decades ago when the workplace was very different."

Media Contact: For members of the press who wish to arrange an interview with Pam Wolf about the impact of long working hours or related topics, please contact us at lrusmedia@wolterskluwer.com.

About Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S.Wolters Kluwer (WKL) is a global leader in professional information, software solutions, and services for the healthcare; tax and accounting; governance, risk and compliance; and legal and regulatory sectors. We help our customers make critical decisions every day by providing expert solutions that combine deep domain knowledge with technology and services.

Wolters Kluwer reported 2020 annual revenues of 4.6 billion. The group serves customers in over 180 countries, maintains operations in over 40 countries, and employs approximately 19,200 people worldwide. The company is headquartered in Alphen aan den Rijn, the Netherlands.

Wolters Kluwer shares are listed on Euronext Amsterdam (WKL) and are included in the AEX and Euronext 100 indices. Wolters Kluwer has a sponsored Level 1 American Depositary Receipt (ADR) program. The ADRs are traded on the over-the-counter market in the U.S. (WTKWY).

For more information about Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S., visit www.WoltersKluwerLR.com, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

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SOURCE Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S.
LONDON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In the clinical world, eyes  specifically the iris  have long been a useful instrument in helping healthcare professionals examine and determine a patient's health condition.

So in today's environment, where prevention is clearly preferable to cure  not least in eliminating further burdens on health services  a real-time screening system utilising the tremendous strides made in artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm technology would appear preferable.

This is where Ophtascan comes in. Developed by Oncotech Nordic AB, Ophtascan is a mobile in-real-time detection system of pre-cancerous and all four levels of cancer conditions and targeted oncological diseases in the human body. By simply using their own smartphone devices, users can photograph their iris, and upload the image to Oncotech's server. Oncotech's AI diagnostic and deep learning system then sends the results back to the user within just 25 seconds.

Oncotech's CEO Andre Rafnsson explains, "People will be able to self-diagnose for pre-cancerous and targeted existing cancerous conditions via a smartphone in-real time. The process is quick, on demand, cost effective - and does not overload the public health care diagnostic system unnecessarily, hence eliminating patient cancer screening waiting lists.

"Conditions currently clinically validated and screened include lung cancer, liver cancer, breast cancer, uterine cancer, and prostate cancer."

Rafnsson has over 25 years' management experience in the international pharmaceutical, medical device, specialty chemicals, and the biotech sectors. With its base of operations in both Sweden and the United Kingdom, Oncotech has been established by Rafnsson, alongside a management team consisting of CTO Marat Kalimulov, CSO Professor Shamil Gantzev and COO Rustem Amirov.

The roots of the Ophtascan proof of concept technology can be traced back to research and development undertaken by the Russian military 40 years ago. In those rudimentary times, the nascent technology wasn't sophisticated enough to realise the system's full potential. In 2014, Kalimulov and Professor Gantzev relaunched the initiative by incorporating IT and AI, giving fresh impetus to the possibilities offered by an examination of the eye.

Last year, validation of Ophtascan was completed, following tests on 800 oncology patients over a three-year period. The scanning precision success rate was over 96 per cent, with Rafnsson expecting to reach a 98-99 per cent precision scanning rate by the third quarter of 2021, as additional patients are tested and data is validated on a daily basis.

CEO Andre Rafnsson continued, "Our patent is now pending for the software and design algorithms. We have diligently started discussions with several telemedicine and remote health diagnostic business partners in Europe, North America and Asia with a view to license the Ophtascan technology. Technically advanced businesses can see the potential impact of this breakthrough in increased positive medical outcomes for patients. Cancer survival rate is determined by a number of factors, and early detection is one of the most significant determinants. Ophtascan  is precise, quick, well documented and is highly cost-effective.

"The very exciting news too is that new research is underway for Ophtascan tests that will examine the early warning signs for type 2 diabetes, a condition with rates that are seen as a 'ticking time-bomb'. The diabetes clinical test-trials have been completed with a positive proof of concept confirmation, where 100 patients have been successfully tested."

https://oncotechservices.com/

Ophtascan is the registered trade mark of Oncotech Nordic AB.

About Oncotech Nordic AB

Oncotech works with internationally acclaimed oncologists and clinical researchers based Japan, Denmark and Russia (Ufa and St Petersburg).

The Therapeutic R&D and focus is on Diagnostics (mobile in-time cancer screening technology) and cancer treatment Therapies (breast, uterus, lung, prostate, pancreas, liver and neuroblastoma).

R&D partners include:

Dana Genetics A/S, Eldon Biologicals A/S, Cencor Technology LLC, LymTreat LLC, PeritonTreat LLC and the Skolkovo Foundation.

The fully-funded business was set up in London, UK in 2020 with a Nordic operational subsidiary in 2021, headed by CEO Andre Rafnsson.

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SOURCE Oncotech Nordic AB
LONDON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- TravelPerk, the largest global travel management platform, has today announced a partnership with leading global travel marketplace Skyscanner to provide travellers with daily data on Covid-19 travel restrictions, including point to point travel information, documents required for travel, and details of destination specific restrictions and requirements.

The partnership allows travellers to make informed choices when booking trips at a time when international travel is reopening amid a complex network of Covid-19 restrictions. Daily insights are provided through TravelPerk's TravelSafe API, which allows third-party travel agencies and others to provide their customers with timely information on point to point travel restrictions and requirements on both arrival and return destinations. The API, which is TravelPerk's first product offering for the wider travel industry, is powered by TravelPerk's own dataset, gathered from official sources such as the UK Commonwealth Office, and local governmental websites and cross-referenced by policy analysts. The service also includes information on local restrictions and requirements, including quarantines, testing and proof of vaccination, and advice on documentation such as passenger locator forms.

TravelPerk's TravelSafe API now powers Skyscanner's interactive map, which helps travellers understand where they can go and the rules in place to travel to any destination around the world. Since integrating TravelPerk data, Skyscanner has seen a significant shift in customer satisfaction, reporting an increase of 40% for their Journey Experience and Product Market Fit score, measuring ease of use and perceived usefulness of the map on mobile specifically.

By integrating TravelSafe API, both Skyscanner and TravelPerk play a major role in enabling a safe and smooth return to travel, building traveller confidence through the provision of live updates on travel restrictions and requirements.

This news follows TravelPerk's recent $160 million Series D funding announcement that will fuel the next phase of its rapid global growth and will help the company enhance its offerings in safety, flexibility and sustainability.

Ross McNairn, Chief Product Officer at TravelPerk, said:

"It's been a tough year for the travel industry, and for people who love to travel. We are starting to see travel reopening again, but the situation remains uncertain, complex and fast-changing, with a variety of restrictions likely to be in place for specific destinations and routes for some time to come.

"At TravelPerk, we want to equip travelers with the tools and information they need to start booking trips again, confidently and safely. Our TravelSafe API is designed to do just that and, by making it our first product that is available to the wider travel sector, we hope to support the entire travel ecosystem as it recovers from the disruption of the last 12 months. We are delighted to be partnering with Skyscanner and are very proud to be working together on a common mission to help both leisure and business travelers begin traveling again."

Piero Sierra, Chief Product Officer at Skyscanner, said:

"We know there's a huge amount of pent-up demand for travel right now - according to our travel pulse, 54% of travellers visiting Skyscanner this month are currently planning a trip, while 40% are thinking about it. This is the highest intent we have seen in over a year. However, we're also aware that more needs to be done to rebuild traveller confidence following a year unlike any other.

"When asked what would encourage them to book an international flight, nearly 1 in 2 (43%) travellers cite greater clarity on restrictions and straightforward guidance around international travel. We launched our map to address that need, providing travellers with transparent, easy to understand information and helping them navigate the constantly in-flux landscape that is international travel during these Covid-impacted times. But we didn't stop there - we are always looking for ways to improve our experience for users and meet traveller needs in the best way possible. With the integration of TravelPerk's TravelSafe API, we are taking our map to the next level, ensuring it's truly helping travellers understand where they can go and what rules they'll need to comply with in order to travel."

About TravelPerk

TravelPerk is the next-generation business travel platform pioneering the future of business travel. TravelPerk's all-in-one platform gives travelers the freedom they want whilst providing companies with the control they need. The result is saved time, money, and hassle for everyone.

TravelPerk has the world's largest travel inventory alongside powerful management features, 24/7 customer support, state-of-the-art technology and consumer-grade design, all of which are enabling companies worldwide to get the most out of their travel.

Backed by world-class investors like DST, Kinnevik, Target Global, Felix Capital, Greyhound Capital, Spark Capital, Heartcore, LocalGlobe, Amplo, 14Winvestors in some of the most disruptive companies in tech including Zalando, Slack, Trello, Twitter, Farfetch and Delivery Hero  TravelPerk is reinventing business travel with an end-to-end solution that works. Visit www.travelperk.com or https://developers.travelperk.com for more information

About Skyscanner

Founded in 2003, Skyscanner is a leading travel marketplace dedicated to putting travellers first. Skyscanner helps millions of people in 52 countries and over 30 languages find the best travel options for flights, hotels and car hire every month. Skyscanner is available on desktop, mobile web and its highly rated app has 100 million downloads. Working with 1200 travel partners, Skyscanner's mission is to lead the global transformation to modern and sustainable travel.

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SOURCE TravelPerk
PLEASANTON, Calif., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Veeva Systems Inc. (NYSE: VEEV), a leading provider of industry cloud solutions for the global life sciences industry, today announced results for its first quarter ended April 30, 2021.

"The team's focus on customer success and product excellence continues to drive Veeva's outstanding results," said CEO Peter Gassner. "Our innovations in data, software, and services are helping the industry move to a new digital-first model."

Fiscal 2022 First Quarter Results:

Revenues : Total revenues for the first quarter were $433.6 million, up from $337.1 million one year ago, an increase of 29% year over year. Subscription services revenues for the first quarter were $341.1 million, up from $270.2 million one year ago, an increase of 26% year over year.

: Total revenues for the first quarter were $433.6 million, up from $337.1 million one year ago, an increase of 29% year over year. Subscription services revenues for the first quarter were $341.1 million, up from $270.2 million one year ago, an increase of 26% year over year. Operating Income and Non-GAAP Operating Income (1): First quarter operating income was $128.4 million, compared to $87.6 million one year ago, an increase of 47% year over year. Non-GAAP operating income for the first quarter was $181.4 million, compared to $129.7 million one year ago, an increase of 40% year over year.

(1): First quarter operating income was $128.4 million, compared to $87.6 million one year ago, an increase of 47% year over year. Non-GAAP operating income for the first quarter was $181.4 million, compared to $129.7 million one year ago, an increase of 40% year over year. Net Income and Non-GAAP Net Income (1): First quarter net income was $115.6 million, compared to $86.6 million one year ago, an increase of 33% year over year. Non-GAAP net income for the first quarter was $146.9 million, compared to $105.2 million one year ago, an increase of 40% year over year.

(1): First quarter net income was $115.6 million, compared to $86.6 million one year ago, an increase of 33% year over year. Non-GAAP net income for the first quarter was $146.9 million, compared to $105.2 million one year ago, an increase of 40% year over year. Net Income per Share and Non-GAAP Net Income per Share(1): For the first quarter, fully diluted net income per share was $0.71, compared to $0.54 one year ago, while non-GAAP fully diluted net income per share was $0.91, compared to $0.66 one year ago.

"It was an outstanding start to the year," said CFO Brent Bowman. "We are building a durable position across both R&D and commercial, which reflects our role as a strategic technology provider to the industry."

Recent Highlights:

New and Exist ing Customer Relationships Drive Strong Growth  The company added a record 59 new customers in the first quarter, bringing total customer count to more than 1,000. Q1 was an outstanding bookings quarter fueled by strong results in Veeva Vault and Veeva Commercial Cloud. Demand remains robust as customers increasingly partner with Veeva to modernize their technology infrastructure and move to a digital first model.

 The company added a record 59 new customers in the first quarter, bringing total customer count to more than 1,000. Q1 was an outstanding bookings quarter fueled by strong results in Veeva Vault and Veeva Commercial Cloud. Demand remains robust as customers increasingly partner with Veeva to modernize their technology infrastructure and move to a digital first model. Record New Customer Additions for Vault Quality  Vault Quality had an outstanding quarter which included record bookings for Veeva Vault Quality Suite and significant wins in Veeva Vault QualityDocs, Vault QMS, and Vault Training. Among these was Veeva's sixth Vault QMS win with a top 20 pharmaceutical company, which is their first Veeva Development Cloud application.

 Vault Quality had an outstanding quarter which included record bookings for Veeva Vault Quality Suite and significant wins in Veeva Vault QualityDocs, Vault QMS, and Vault Training. Among these was Veeva's sixth Vault QMS win with a top 20 pharmaceutical company, which is their first Veeva Development Cloud application. Enabling the Industry with Better Ways of Working  Veeva is advancing how customers operate with the industry's first Quality Reference Model. Going beyond software, Veeva is providing customers a technology enabled best practice model as the standard for the industry based upon extensive experience with more than 300 Vault QualityDocs deployments.

Financial Outlook:

Veeva is providing guidance for its fiscal second quarter ending July 31, 2021 as follows:

Total revenues between $450 and $452 million.

Non-GAAP operating income between $175 and $177 million(2).

Non-GAAP fully diluted net income per share between $0.85 and $0.86(2).

Veeva is providing guidance for its fiscal year ending January 31, 2022 as follows:

Total revenues between $1,815 and $1,825 million.

Non-GAAP operating income of about $710 million(2).

Non-GAAP fully diluted net income per share of approximately $3.49(2).

Conference Call Information

Prepared remarks and an investor presentation providing additional information and analysis can be found on Veeva's investor relations website at ir.veeva.com. Veeva will host a Q&A conference call at 2:00 p.m. PT today, May 27, 2021, and a replay of the call will be available on Veeva's investor relations website.

What: Veeva's Fiscal 2022 First Quarter Results Conference Call When: Thursday, May 27, 2021 Time: 2:00 p.m. PT (5:00 p.m. ET) Online Registration: www.directeventreg.com Conference ID 8145598 Webcast: ir.veeva.com

___________ (1) This press release uses non-GAAP financial metrics that are adjusted for the impact of various GAAP items. See the section titled "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" and the tables entitled "Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures" below for details. (2) Veeva is not able, at this time, to provide GAAP targets for operating income and fully diluted net income per share for the second fiscal quarter ending July 31, 2021 or fiscal year ending January 31, 2022 because of the difficulty of estimating certain items excluded from non-GAAP operating income and non-GAAP fully diluted net income per share that cannot be reasonably predicted, such as charges related to stock-based compensation expense. The effect of these excluded items may be significant.

About Veeva SystemsVeeva is the global leader in cloud software for the life sciences industry. Committed to innovation, product excellence, and customer success, Veeva serves more than 1,000 customers, ranging from the world's largest pharmaceutical companies to emerging biotechs. As a Public Benefit Corporation, Veeva is committed to balancing the interests of all stakeholders, including customers, employees, shareholders and the industries it serves. For more information, visit veeva.com.

Veeva uses its ir.veeva.com website as a means of disclosing material non-public information, announcing upcoming investor conferences, and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Accordingly, you should monitor our investor relations website in addition to following our press releases, SEC filings, and public conference calls and webcasts.

Forward-looking StatementsThis release contains forward-looking statements, including the quotations from management, the statements in "Financial Outlook," and other statements regarding Veeva's future performance, outlook, and guidance and the assumptions underlying those statements, market growth, the benefits from the use of Veeva's solutions, our strategies, and general business conditions. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based upon Veeva's historical performance and its current plans, estimates, and expectations and are not a representation that such plans, estimates, or expectations will be achieved. These forward-looking statements represent Veeva's expectations as of the date of this press announcement. Subsequent events may cause these expectations to change, and Veeva disclaims any obligation to update the forward-looking statements in the future. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially, including (i) the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic (including the impact to the life sciences industry, impact on general economic conditions, and government responses, restrictions, and actions related to the pandemic); (ii) breaches in our security measures or unauthorized access to our customers' data; (iii) competitive factors, including but not limited to pricing pressures, consolidation among our competitors, entry of new competitors, the launch of new products and marketing initiatives by our existing competitors, and difficulty securing rights to access, host or integrate with complementary third party products or data used by our customers; (iv) the rate of adoption of our newer solutions and the results of our efforts to sustain or expand the use and adoption of our more established applications, like Veeva CRM; (v) our expectation that the future growth rate of our revenues will decline; (vi) loss of one or more customers, particularly any of our large customers; (vii) fluctuation of our results, which may make period-to-period comparisons less meaningful; (viii) adverse changes in the life sciences industry, including as a result of customer mergers; (ix) system unavailability, system performance problems, or loss of data due to disruptions or other problems with our computing infrastructure; (x) our ability to attract and retain highly skilled employees and manage our growth effectively; (xi) failure to sustain the level of profitability we have achieved in the past as our costs increase; (xii) adverse changes in economic, regulatory, international trade relations, or market conditions, including with respect to natural disasters or actual or threatened public health emergencies; (xiii) a decline in new subscriptions that may not be immediately reflected in our operating results due to the ratable recognition of our subscription revenue; (xiv) pending, threatened, or future legal proceedings and related expenses; and (xv) our recent conversion to a Delaware public benefit corporation, including the expected impact, benefits, and risks of our conversion.

Additional risks and uncertainties that could affect Veeva's financial results are included under the captions "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in the company's filing on Form 10-K for the period ended January 31, 2021. This is available on the company's website at veeva.com under the Investors section and on the SEC's website at sec.gov. Further information on potential risks that could affect actual results will be included in other filings Veeva makes with the SEC from time to time.

Investor Relations Contact:Ato GarrettVeeva Systems Inc.925-271-4204 ir@veeva.com

Media Contact:Deivis MercadoVeeva Systems Inc.925-226-8821pr@veeva.com

VEEVA SYSTEMS INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (In thousands) (Unaudited) April 30,2021 January 31,2021 Assets Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,184,980 $ 730,504 Short-term investments 965,453 933,122 Accounts receivable, net 262,327 564,387 Unbilled accounts receivable 51,367 47,206 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 30,939 35,607 Total current assets 2,495,066 2,310,826 Property and equipment, net 52,248 53,650 Deferred costs, net 40,007 42,072 Lease right-of-use assets 53,776 56,917 Goodwill 436,029 436,029 Intangible assets, net 110,166 114,595 Deferred income taxes 13,845 14,100 Other long-term assets 21,012 17,878 Total assets $ 3,222,149 $ 3,046,067 Liabilities and stockholders' equity Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 18,858 $ 23,253 Accrued compensation and benefits 31,720 30,410 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 32,716 30,982 Income tax payable 6,299 2,590 Deferred revenue 608,673 616,992 Lease liabilities 11,280 11,725 Total current liabilities 709,546 715,952 Deferred income taxes 6,488 1,835 Lease liabilities, noncurrent 48,672 51,393 Other long-term liabilities 12,459 10,567 Total liabilities 777,165 779,747 Stockholders' equity: Class A common stock 2 2 Class B common stock   Additional paid-in capital 1,032,063 965,670 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (2,304) 992 Retained earnings 1,415,223 1,299,656 Total stockholders' equity 2,444,984 2,266,320 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 3,222,149 $ 3,046,067

VEEVA SYSTEMS INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (In thousands, except per share data) (Unaudited) Three months ended April 30, 2021 2020 Revenues: Subscription services(3) $ 341,119 $ 270,235 Professional services and other(4) 92,454 66,871 Total revenues 433,573 337,106 Cost of revenues(5): Cost of subscription services 51,217 43,212 Cost of professional services and other 64,919 51,668 Total cost of revenues 116,136 94,880 Gross profit 317,437 242,226 Operating expenses(5): Research and development 83,226 62,237 Sales and marketing 64,610 55,755 General and administrative 41,155 36,669 Total operating expenses 188,991 154,661 Operating income 128,446 87,565 Other income, net 4,564 3,414 Income before income taxes 133,010 90,979 Provision for income taxes 17,443 4,409 Net income $ 115,567 $ 86,570 Net income per share: Basic $ 0.76 $ 0.58 Diluted $ 0.71 $ 0.54 Weighted-average shares used to compute net income per share: Basic 152,444 149,541 Diluted 162,213 159,474 Other comprehensive income: Net change in unrealized gain (loss) on available-for- sale investments $ (1,086) $ 1,297 Net change in cumulative foreign currency translation gain (loss) (2,213) 389 Comprehensive income $ 112,268 $ 88,256 (3) Includes subscription services revenues from the following product areas: Veeva Commercial Cloud $ 168,458 $ 142,577 Veeva Vault 172,661 127,658 Total subscription services $ 341,119 $ 270,235 (4) Includes professional services and other revenues from the following product areas: Veeva Commercial Cloud $ 36,026 $ 27,376 Veeva Vault 56,428 39,495 Total professional services and other $ 92,454 $ 66,871 (5) Includes stock-based compensation as follows: Cost of revenues: Cost of subscription services $ 906 $ 1,019 Cost of professional services and other 7,422 5,074 Research and development 16,837 11,401 Sales and marketing 11,555 8,192 General and administrative 11,769 11,221 Total stock-based compensation $ 48,489 $ 36,907

VEEVA SYSTEMS INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (In thousands) (Unaudited) Three months endedApril 30, 2021 2020 Cash flows from operating activities Net income $ 115,567 $ 86,570 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 6,628 7,878 Reduction of operating lease right-of-use assets 2,827 2,997 Accretion (amortization) of discount on short-term investments 1,542 (11) Stock-based compensation 48,489 36,907 Amortization of deferred costs 6,355 4,751 Deferred income taxes 5,242 (1,134) Gain on foreign currency from mark-to-market derivative 431 93 Bad debt (expense) recovery 159 (393) Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Accounts receivable 301,732 154,160 Unbilled accounts receivable (4,161) (4,452) Deferred costs (4,290) (3,342) Income taxes payable 3,709 (1,850) Other current and long-term assets 2,737 551 Accounts payable (6,794) (4,430) Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 6,967 2,691 Deferred revenue (8,176) 1,477 Operating lease liabilities (2,748) (2,811) Other long-term liabilities 2,169 2,520 Net cash provided by operating activities 478,385 282,172 Cash flows from investing activities Purchases of short-term investments (256,938) (188,818) Maturities and sales of short-term investments 221,645 140,342 Long-term assets (2,656) 267 Net cash used in investing activities (37,949) (48,209) Cash flows from financing activities Reduction of lease liabilities - finance leases (286) (248) Proceeds from exercise of common stock options 17,091 9,781 Net cash provided by financing activities 16,805 9,533 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash (2,765) 548 Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash 454,476 244,044 Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at beginning of period 731,712 479,797 Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period $ 1,186,188 $ 723,841 Supplemental disclosures of other cash flow information: Excess tax benefits from employee stock plans $ 17,451 $ 19,615

Non-GAAP Financial MeasuresIn Veeva's public disclosures, Veeva has provided non-GAAP measures, which it defines as financial information that has not been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or GAAP. In addition to its GAAP measures, Veeva uses these non-GAAP financial measures internally for budgeting and resource allocation purposes and in analyzing its financial results. For the reasons set forth below, Veeva believes that excluding the following items provides information that is helpful in understanding its operating results, evaluating its future prospects, comparing its financial results across accounting periods, and comparing its financial results to its peers, many of which provide similar non-GAAP financial measures.

Stock-based compensation expenses. Veeva excludes stock-based compensation expenses primarily because they are non-cash expenses that Veeva excludes from its internal management reporting processes. Veeva's management also finds it useful to exclude these expenses when they assess the appropriate level of various operating expenses and resource allocations when budgeting, planning and forecasting future periods. Moreover, because of varying available valuation methodologies, subjective assumptions and the variety of award types that companies can use under FASB ASC Topic 718, Veeva believes excluding stock-based compensation expenses allows investors to make meaningful comparisons between our recurring core business operating results and those of other companies.

Amortization of purchased intangibles. Veeva incurs amortization expense for purchased intangible assets in connection with acquisitions of certain businesses and technologies. Amortization of intangible assets is a non-cash expense and is inconsistent in amount and frequency because it is significantly affected by the timing, size of acquisitions and the inherent subjective nature of purchase price allocations. Because these costs have already been incurred and cannot be recovered, and are non-cash expenses, Veeva excludes these expenses for its internal management reporting processes. Veeva's management also finds it useful to exclude these charges when assessing the appropriate level of various operating expenses and resource allocations when budgeting, planning and forecasting future periods. Investors should note that the use of intangible assets contributed to Veeva's revenues earned during the periods presented and will contribute to Veeva's future period revenues as well.

Income tax effects on the difference between GAAP and non-GAAP costs and expenses. The income tax effects that are excluded relate to the imputed tax impact on the difference between GAAP and non-GAAP costs and expenses due to stock-based compensation and purchased intangibles for GAAP and non-GAAP measures.

There are limitations to using non-GAAP financial measures because non-GAAP financial measures are not prepared in accordance with GAAP and may be different from non-GAAP financial measures provided by other companies. The non-GAAP financial measures are limited in value because they exclude certain items that may have a material impact upon our reported financial results. In addition, they are subject to inherent limitations as they reflect the exercise of judgments by Veeva's management about which items are adjusted to calculate its non-GAAP financial measures. Veeva compensates for these limitations by analyzing current and future results on a GAAP basis as well as a non-GAAP basis and also by providing GAAP measures in its public disclosures.

Non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered in isolation from, or as a substitute for, financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP. Veeva encourages its investors and others to review its financial information in its entirety, not to rely on any single financial measure to evaluate its business, and to view its non-GAAP financial measures in conjunction with the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures. A reconciliation of GAAP to the non-GAAP financial measures has been provided in the tables below.

The following tables reconcile the specific items excluded from GAAP metrics in the calculation of non-GAAP metrics for the periods shown below:

VEEVA SYSTEMS INC. RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (Dollars in thousands) (Unaudited) Three months ended April 30, 2021 2020 Cost of subscription services revenues on a GAAP basis $ 51,217 $ 43,212 Stock-based compensation expense (906) (1,019) Amortization of purchased intangibles (895) (1,594) Cost of subscription services revenues on a non-GAAP basis $ 49,416 $ 40,599 Gross margin on subscription services revenues on a GAAP basis 85.0 % 84.0 % Stock-based compensation expense 0.3 0.4 Amortization of purchased intangibles 0.2 0.6 Gross margin on subscription services revenues on a non-GAAP basis 85.5 % 85.0 % Cost of professional services and other revenues on a GAAP basis $ 64,919 $ 51,668 Stock-based compensation expense (7,422) (5,074) Amortization of purchased intangibles (134) (135) Cost of professional services and other revenues on a non-GAAP basis $ 57,363 $ 46,459 Gross margin on professional services and other revenues on a GAAP basis 29.8 % 22.7 % Stock-based compensation expense 8.0 7.6 Amortization of purchased intangibles 0.2 0.2 Gross margin on professional services and other revenues on a non-GAAP basis 38.0 % 30.5 % Gross profit on a GAAP basis $ 317,437 $ 242,226 Stock-based compensation expense 8,328 6,093 Amortization of purchased intangibles 1,029 1,729 Gross profit on a non-GAAP basis $ 326,794 $ 250,048 Gross margin on total revenues on a GAAP basis 73.2 % 71.9 % Stock-based compensation expense 1.9 1.8 Amortization of purchased intangibles 0.3 0.5 Gross margin on total revenues on a non-GAAP basis 75.4 % 74.2 % Research and development expense on a GAAP basis $ 83,226 $ 62,237 Stock-based compensation expense (16,837) (11,401) Amortization of purchased intangibles (28) (28) Research and development expense on a non-GAAP basis $ 66,361 $ 50,808 Sales and marketing expense on a GAAP basis $ 64,610 $ 55,755 Stock-based compensation expense (11,555) (8,192) Amortization of purchased intangibles (3,317) (3,402) Sales and marketing expense on a non-GAAP basis $ 49,738 $ 44,161 General and administrative expense on a GAAP basis $ 41,155 $ 36,669 Stock-based compensation expense (11,769) (11,221) Amortization of purchased intangibles (55) (56) General and administrative expense on a non-GAAP basis $ 29,331 $ 25,392 Operating expense on a GAAP basis $ 188,991 $ 154,661 Stock-based compensation expense (40,161) (30,814) Amortization of purchased intangibles (3,400) (3,486) Operating expense on a non-GAAP basis $ 145,430 $ 120,361 Operating income on a GAAP basis $ 128,446 $ 87,565 Stock-based compensation expense 48,489 36,907 Amortization of purchased intangibles 4,429 5,215 Operating income on a non-GAAP basis $ 181,364 $ 129,687 Operating margin on a GAAP basis 29.6 % 26.0 % Stock-based compensation expense 11.2 11.0 Amortization of purchased intangibles 1.0 1.5 Operating margin on a non-GAAP basis 41.8 % 38.5 % Net income on a GAAP basis $ 115,567 $ 86,570 Stock-based compensation expense 48,489 36,907 Amortization of purchased intangibles 4,429 5,215 Income tax effect on non-GAAP adjustments (6) (21,602) (23,542) Net income on a non-GAAP basis $ 146,883 $ 105,150 Diluted net income per share on a GAAP basis $ 0.71 $ 0.54 Stock-based compensation expense 0.30 0.23 Amortization of purchased intangibles 0.03 0.04 Income tax effect on non-GAAP adjustments(6) (0.13) (0.15) Diluted net income per share on a non-GAAP basis $ 0.91 $ 0.66

________________________ (6) For the three months ended April 30, 2021 and 2020, management used an estimated annual effective non-GAAP tax rate of 21.0%.

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SOURCE Veeva Systems
Buy Photo Frank Kendall III, undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics, listens during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on Capitol Hill, April 26, 2016. Kendall has been nominated by President Joe Biden to be the next Air Force secretary. (Joe Gromelski/Stars and Stripes)

Frank Kendall, President Joe Bidens nominee for Air Force secretary, told senators on Tuesday that he was driven to return to the Defense Department by concerns over Chinas improving battlefield technology.

Kendall, who served as the Pentagons top weapons buyer under former President Barack Obama, listed ensuring the Air Force and Space Force retained military advantage over any potential foe among his top priorities, if confirmed. He recalled a highly classified 2010 Pentagon meeting in which he first learned of Chinas push to improve its military capabilities in an eye-opening effort to defeat the ability of the United States to project power near China.

We have made progress against these threats, and our adversaries should never doubt the United States, but there is still much to be done, Kendall told the Senate Armed Services Committee. My hope is that, if confirmed, I will be able to lead the Department of the Air Force in organizing, training and equipping our nation's aerospace forces so that the United States can continue to deter, and if necessary, fight and win against all adversaries.

Kendall, 72, testified in support of his nomination before the Senate committee alongside Heidi Shyu, Bidens nominee for undersecretary of defense for research and engineering, and Susanna Blume, the presidents nominee for director for the Pentagons Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation Office. Like Kendall, Shyu and Blume served in high level Pentagon positions during Obamas administration.

Senators on Tuesday appeared poised to confirm all three, with several praising their selections by the Biden administration and committing to support their nominations, including committee chairman Sen. Jack Reed, D-R.I.

Previously, you [each have] demonstrated the thoughtfulness, and the integrity, and the commitment that is essential to being a part of the Department of Defense, Reed said. I look forward to your confirmations.

The committee also voted Tuesday to advance Bidens nominee for Army secretary, Christine Wormuth, to the full Senate for a confirmation vote. If confirmed, she would be the first woman to serve as the Armys top civilian.

Like Kendall, Wormuth in a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing earlier this month listed competition with power rivals China and Russia and the Pentagons ongoing modernization efforts among her top priorities. Wormuth is also a veteran of the Obama administration, serving previously as the Pentagons civilian policy chief among other Defense Department and National Security Council jobs.

If confirmed, she would replace acting Army secretary John Whitley, who has held that role since Bidens Jan. 20 inauguration. Kendall, if confirmed, would become the 26th Air Force secretary and replace acting Air Force Secretary John P. Roth, who also began that role Jan. 20.

Beyond competition with China and Russia, Kendall said his other top priority would be to take care of his personnel, which includes some 697,000 Air Force and Space Force troops and civilian employees. He committed to working with senators to improve on-post housing and other quality-of-life issues, including looking into command climates throughout the service.

He also endorsed the need for change to the militarys approach to solving its longstanding problems with high rates of sexual assault and harassment in its ranks. Kendall called efforts spearheaded by Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., and Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, to remove military commanders from the sexual assault prosecution process potentially very beneficial in this area.

Change is necessary, Kendall told Gillibrand. Hopefully we can move forward.

But Kendall also committed to pushing back against across-the-board cuts to defense spending, which some liberal Democrats have pressed Biden to propose. Budget cuts have the potential to derail a number of critical Air Force modernization programs, including the development of its new nuclear bomber, the B-21 Raider. It could also slow the fielding of advanced F-35 Joint Strike Fighters, which despite well-documented and expensive problems, remains the best tactical aircraft of its type in the world and will be so for quite some time, Kendall said.

Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, said he was worried the Biden White House would not follow the 2018 advise of a congressionally mandated panel, the National Defense Strategy Commission, which recommended the Pentagons budget increase 3% to 5% annually to compete with China and Russia, as the 2018 National Defense Strategy prioritized.

I can commit to you to fight for the budget thats necessary to fulfill the National Defense Strategy, whatever that [number] may be, he said. So, if its 5% or its 10%, I will try to get the money that is needed by the Department of the Air Force, if I'm confirmed, so that the Air Force can support combatant commanders however they need to carry out that strategy.

dickstein.corey@stripes.com

Twitter: @CDicksteinDC
In a July, 2020 photo, a B-1B Lancer assigned to the 37th Bomb Squadron taxis on the flightline at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D. (Quentin Marx/U.S. Air Force)

RAPID CITY, S.D. (Tribune News Service)  The B-1B bomber fleet at Ellsworth Air Force Base near Rapid City will participate in training missions this week, causing airfield operations to be extended into the early morning hours and increased night flying, the U.S. Air Force announced Sunday.

According to a news release, the extended operating hours will go through Wednesday. Residents in and around Ellsworth can expect to hear noises associated with the flying aircraft and maintenance activities during unexpected hours.

The training missions follow a mandatory grounding of the B1-B bombers after an April 8 emergency incident at Ellsworth involving the aircraft's fuel pump filter housing. Gen. Tim Ray, the Air Force Global Strike Command commander, ordered a "safety stand-down" of the entire B-1B fleet on April 20.

The first B-1B Lancers resumed flight operations May 3, a news release from Global Strike Command said. Individual B-1B aircraft returned to flight as inspections and maintenance directed during the stand-down were completed on each aircraft, the Air Force confirmed.

During the safety stand-down, maintenance depot personnel disassembled the Augmenter Fuel Filter Housing and performed a series of inspections. After each unit was determined to be free of defects, it was reassembled, pressure checked, and returned to service.

"We are proud of the tremendous efforts of our maintainers and B-1 partners in identifying, inspecting, and remediating any potential issues with the B-1B fuel filter housing," said Maj. Gen. Mark Weatherington, 8th Air Force commander, who is responsible for the Air Force bomber force. "The aircraft are still safe to fly and we are confident that this stand-down has resulted in increased safety within the B-1B fleet."

Last week, a B-1B Lancer aircrew from the 37th Bomb Squadron at Ellsworth flew into history as the first operational unit from the base to conduct a refueling mission with a KC-46A on May 17.

According to the Air Force, a KC-46A from the 344th Air Refueling Squadron at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas, refueled the B-1B in a training area near Rapid City.

The KC-46A is the first phase in recapitalizing the U.S. Air Force's aging tanker fleet. With greater refueling, cargo and aeromedical evacuation capabilities compared to the KC-135 Stratotanker, the KC-46A will provide next generation aerial refueling support to Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and partner-nation receivers, a news release said.

"The systems on the KC-46 helped smooth out the airflow as we approached ... which helps (us) to get established in the contact position," said Maj. Tim Jarrell, an Ellsworth B-1B instructor pilot who participated in the mission.

"Refueling with the KC-46 was very similar to my other experiences I've had with KC-135s, and KC-10s, but in general seemed very stable and was an easy platform to refuel from," Jarrell said.

Aircrew in the KC-46A during the historic flight for the Ellsworth B-1B crew said the refueling mission couldn't have gone any better.

"The Ellsworth crew was incredible," said Capt. Steven Strickland, 22nd Operations Support Squadron flight commander assigned to McConnell. "Aircraft stability was excellent, allowing the booms to evaluate the concerns that had been raised during initial testing, and mitigate them with experience gained over the past two years."

"The positive impact for IOT and E (Initial Operational Test and Evaluation), and for the enterprise as whole, will continue to push the KC-46 further as we enter our limited operational capability in AMC (Air Mobility Command)," he said.

Jarrell said after talking with the KC-46 crew, both teams are interested in doing more training together.

"Our crew felt lucky to be able to get to train with the KC-46," he said. "Anytime we get to practice air refueling it is great training, and getting to see a new tanker was a fun experience on top of that."

Along with the refueling portion of the mission, the B-1 crew also conducted a full tactical training scenario in the Powder River Training Complex, which overlies portions of Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming.

The PRTC allows aircrews to plan realistic training scenarios directly applicable to current operations and potential future conflict. It is used for combat training by the Ellsworth B-1B fleet and the B-52 bomber crews based at Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota.

nathan.thompson@rapidcityjournal.com

(c)2021 Rapid City Journal, S.D.

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Sgt. Patricia Martinez hefts one of five full, 40-plus pound jerrycans as part of Fort Eustis' battle challenge competition on May 24, 2021. (Dave Ress, Daily Press/TNS)

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (Tribune News Service)  It was the ninth event  dragging a 200-pound dummy some 33 yards to the finish line  that was the toughest at Fort Monroes battle challenge obstacle course contest.

A minute and a half earlier, Sgt. Patricia Martinez had sailed through the jerrycan lift and shift  carrying five full, 40-plus pounds to a shelf  and she nailed the next two shooting events, hitting a target with a laser-fitted rifle from a kneeling and then prone position. At that point, she was pretty much neck and neck with the soldier she was racing against.

Some soldiers running the course earlier, like Col. Chesley Thigpen, the mayor of Fort Eustis, had opted for a two-at-a-time approach to the jerry-cans, aiming for speed.

But Martinez was a one-at-a-time competitor.

I shifted a lot of these at my old unit ... I decided to do one at a time, said Martinez, who is now with the Beachmasters of the 97th Transportation Company, specialists in bringing all the supplies soldiers need up rivers and across beaches.

She knew that for her  with the shooting events coming right afterwards  itd be faster to do one at a time and her arms wouldnt be trembling quite so much for for the shooting.

Thigpen said the two shooting exercises are particularly challenging.

At that point in the obstacle course, after scrambling 13 feet up a cargo net, going hand-over-hand down a 20-foot rope, hauling themselves over a 7-foot-high wall, swinging along a 10-foot-tall set of 12 monkey bars, crawling through a 3-foot-across tunnel and doing the jerrycan lift-and-shift  all the while while carrying a rifle and 20 pounds of weights, most soldiers are breathing pretty hard. And even the most seasoned competitors, like Thigpen, have plenty of adrenaline flooding through their veins by this point.

But with all that, its important to focus. Part of the test is remembering to move the rifles safety switch to semi-automatic. The rest involves aiming through a window  a roughly 2-foot-by-2-foot space at a 1-foot square target some 30 yards away  and hitting it with each of two shots. Dashing a few yards on to the prone position shooting test really isnt enough time to catch a breath.

In the Army, weve really been thinking about reflex shooting  moving fast and then firing, Thigpen said.

For Staff Sgt. Miguel Rowe, an instructor for the helicopter mechanics students of the 128th Aviation Brigade, thats all about training.

Still panting a bit from the dummy-dragging, he said theres an Army way to steady yourself for a shot: You breathe in, then shoot; breathe in, then shoot.

Training is why Rowe, like many but not all soldiers running the obstacle course, opted for using one arm, rather than both, for the dummy drag.

That way, he could raise the rifle he still carried in his other arm, rather than placing it on the dummy, as some soldiers did.

Thats how were trained; you want to be ready to fire if you need to, he said.

The one-armed pull is actually more efficient, as well, said Paul Davis, the physiology Ph.D. who founded the group that designed the battle challenge obstacle course.

The one-armed drag was how Private Brian Faust, an aviation mechanic student who just joined the Army in January tackled the dummy drag in his fourth run through the course.

That time, he finished within one second, at 1 minute 27 seconds, of beating a record.

Dragging the dummy was the toughest, Faust said.

The course was one of several Fort Eustis events in the run-up to Memorial Day, itself traditionally a quiet day for reflection on the base.

In those events, units compete for the Commanders Cup. But while the obstacle course sparks plenty of competitive spirit, in large part by design, its not only about competition.

Thigpen ran it with the top enlisted solider of his unit, Command Sgt. Major Abby Macdonald.

I burned up a lot of energy on the wall, she said  it was at the 7-foot wall that Thigpen drew far ahead.

Theres a system to it, Davis noted. While lots of soldiers try to haul themselves over by brute force, basically in a kind of pull-up, the best way over is to swing a leg up, catch the top with a heel and use the momentum to carry you up. Macdonald tried the pull-up approach at first; Thigpen was a leg-swinger.

By the time she reached the dummy pull, like many others, Macdonald was tired. Thigpen had finished, and was calling encouragement.

But then, when she was about halfway down the the course, yanking the dummy with both hands and leaning all her weight to move it, she tripped. Thigpen ran up. He grabbed the dummy with one hand; she grabbed it with one of hers. Together, they dragged it across the finish line.

I wasnt going to leave my battle buddy out there, Thigpen said. Were a team.

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Christine Wormuth speaks during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on Capitol Hill on May 13, 2021. The Senate voted Thursday to confirm Wormuth to serve as Army secretary, making her the first women ever to hold the post as the service's top civilian leader. (Andrew Harnik/AP)

WASHINGTON  The Senate voted Thursday to confirm Christine Wormuth to serve as the Armys top civilian leader, making her the first woman ever to hold the post.

President Joe Biden nominated Wormuth to serve as the Army secretary in mid-April only months after Kathleen Hicks was confirmed in February by the Senate as the first woman to serve as deputy defense secretary.

Wormuth, a former Pentagon official, drew praise throughout her confirmation hearing from Democratic and Republican lawmakers for her long record of service.

She previously worked as the undersecretary of defense for policy from 2014 to 2016 and before that as the deputy undersecretary of defense for strategy, plans and forces. She is now the director of the international security and defense policy center at the Rand Corp., a nonprofit research organization.

The Senate voted in favor of Wormuth for the position Thursday after a procedural snafu late Wednesday night caused her original confirmation vote to be reversed.

A Senate Armed Services Committee aide said there was a mix-up on the floor that forced Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., to undo her confirmation, which occurred just hours before by unanimous consent.

Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma, the ranking Republican of the Senate Armed Services Committee, congratulated Wormuth in a tweet Thursday morning.

I look forward to working with her to support our soldiers in Oklahoma, across the U.S. and around the world, the senator wrote.

When she was first nominated, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin called Wormuth a true patriot who has dedicated her career to serving the country.

I have no doubt that, if confirmed, she will lead our soldiers and represent their families with honor and integrity as the secretary of the Army, he said.

During her confirmation hearing, Wormuth fielded questions about the militarys largest branch, including hot-button issues such as sexual assault and prevention efforts, military housing and pressures on the National Guard during the past year.

Wormuth said she would focus on prevention to combat sexual assault in the Army by prioritizing hands-on training and a positive command climate.

We need to put quite a bit of focus on prevention. Prevention programs, but also really pushing a positive command climate down to the lowest possible level, she told members of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

Readiness and retention issues such as substandard military housing, an increased reliance on the National Guard and the services fitness test are also priorities that Wormuth said she wants to focus on.

I intend to prioritize the whole range of people issues. To ensure our soldiers and civilians have the best quality of life possible, I will strive to continue improving our Army housing, health care, child care and spouse employment opportunity, she said.

The Senate Armed Services Committee advanced Wormuths nomination by voice vote earlier this week.

Wormuth will replace acting Army Secretary John Whitley, who has been in the position since Jan. 20, at a busy time for the service, which plans to release its budget request for fiscal year 2022 on Friday.

Cammarata.Sarah@stripes.com

Twitter: @sarahjcamm
Marines with Bravo Company, Battalion Landing Team 1/4, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, drive assault amphibious vehicles at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 14, 2020. (Brendan Mullin/U.S. Marine Corps)

SANTA ANA, Calif. (Tribune News Service)  The Marine Corps top general on Wednesday spoke for the first time publicly about the investigations into a training accident last summer in which eight Marines and a sailor died when their amphibious assault vehicle sank to the ocean floor, announcing he is convening an outside board to look into the state of the Corps amphibious operations.

Since the deadly accident, all the ship-to-shore amphibious operations remain suspended.

The Marine Corps ability to maneuver between water and land is a core function, especially given expectations by military leaders that the United States will face more threats in the future coming out of the Indo Pacific instead of the mountains and deserts of the Middle East seen the last few decades.

The board will be led by retired Gen. Thomas Waldhauser and made up of retired amphibious operation experts.

This is what we need to learn as an institution to make sure that in the years to come, we know how to do what is our core competency, Gen. David Berger said during a conversation from the Pentagon with military reporters where he discussed the events of the deadly training accident and his thoughts on what happened. Twenty and 30 years ago, we did a lot of amphibious operations and there was a lot of shared knowledge, and that pool has shrunk. Our bench is thinner than Im comfortable and we have to expand that. And, we have to do it thoughtfully.

While not an excuse, Berger said the past 20 years spent fighting in the deserts have taken Marines away from their watery roots. He has been planning for a future working more closely again with the Navy.

Of the deadly training accident July 30 off San Clemente island, Berger said, Its very clear to me that the sinking of this Amtrac and the loss of those Marines and that sailor both were preventable.

Three of the Marines who died were from Southern California.

You have to start with the families; theyre the ones we think about and the loss they had, he said.

When we lose a service member, the best way we can honor that is to do everything humanly possible to try to prevent something like that from happening again. We can never promise that it wont happen again, but we can certainly do all that we can to limit the likelihood that ever happens again.

Accountability is with me and I accept that, Berger added.

The first of two investigations began last summer has been publicly released and Berger said hes read it and the second by the Naval Safety Center several times.

Together, they certainly provide sufficient detail to answer the question of what directly caused that Amtrac to sink and those Marines and that sailor to lose their lives, he said. My assessment is they answer that. But there were unanswered questions about the actions leading up to that; what can we learn that might prevent a similar tragedy in the future.

On April 2, the Marine Corps broadened the scope of investigation to look at how preparations for deployment might have contributed to the training accident  the nine Marines who died were part of Battalion Landing Team 1/4, which was attached to the Camp Pendleton-based 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit being readied for deployment last September.

The investigation answered who made what decisions and who knew what prior to the MEUs formation, Berger said.

I have that investigation, he said. The next steps are for me to discuss my thoughts about what happened with the acting secretary of the Navy, Secretary (Thomas) Harker, which I will do pretty quickly.

Berger said he could not provide a timeline for any final decisions that may be made on accountability. He said at the conclusion of his discussions with Harker, any information on actions to come will be shared with the families and Congress.

The Navy has also launched its own investigation, which is expected to be completed in 30 days.

Berger also addressed in his conversation Wednesday the Corps culture of safety, saying he will focus specifically on risk during training.

Thats been a topic recently in House Armed Service subcommittee hearings where California representatives John Garamendi, D- Walnut Grove, and Rep. Jackie Speier, D- Hillsborough, both called for increased safety in military training.

This is not easy because a safety culture taken to extremes is going to produce a bunch of leaders who wont take risks on the battlefield, Berger said. But, how we look at risk in training, we need to adjust. There have been some positive steps in how we manage training, how we share information in safety. But, we clearly have to improve how we make better risk decisions in training.

___

(c)2021 The Orange County Register (Santa Ana, Calif.)

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The aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan sails near Iwo Jima, known in Japan as Iwo To, in the Philippine Sea, May 22, 2021. (Jason Tarleton/U.S. Navy)

The Navy is expected to send its only Indo-Pacific-based aircraft carrier to the Middle East this summer to support the planned withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan, multiple media outlets reported Wednesday.

President Joe Biden earlier this year set a deadline of Sept. 11  the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon that set in motion U.S. military action in Afghanistan  for bringing home the remaining troops from the war-torn country.

The Japan-based USS Ronald Reagan will relieve the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower and its strike group in the North Arabian Sea, according to the Wall Street Journal, which first reported the planned deployment and cited unnamed defense officials. The Eisenhower is slated to return to its Norfolk, Va., homeport in July. The carrier has deployed twice in the past 36 months and cant safely extend beyond summer, the officials told the newspaper.

The Ronald Reagan is expected to operate in the Middle East for up to four months, according to the report. The Navy will go without an aircraft carrier in the Indo-Pacific for at least part of that time, the officials said.

Pacific Fleet referred a Stars and Stripes query on the move to the Pentagon.

We don't talk about potential ship movements in advance, Pentagon press secretary John Kirby told reporters during a news conference Wednesday when asked about the Ronald Reagan.

The carrier is permanently deployed at Yokosuka Naval Base and normally spends about half the year at sea patrolling the Indo-Pacific. The ship left Yokosuka on patrol May 19.

USNI News reported Wednesday that it had confirmed the Ronald Reagans upcoming deployment with two unnamed defense officials.

The last time a Yokosuka-based carrier deployed to the Middle East was in 2003 when the USS Kitty Hawk supported the U.S. invasion of Iraq, according to the report.

Meanwhile, the carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt returned to its homeport in San Diego on Tuesday after completing a five-month deployment that included the Gulf of Alaska and the contested South China Sea.

While the 7th Fleet has roughly 50 to 70 ships and submarines, the Ronald Reagan and its strike force are the Navys most visible projection of maritime power in the Indo-Pacific.

The Navy has used the carrier and other warships to push back on Chinas aggressive claims of sovereignty over most of the South China Sea.

In February, the carriers USS Nimitz and USS Theodore Roosevelt moved to the Indo-Pacific to exercise together in the South China Sea while the Ronald Reagan was in port for regular maintenance.

On Saturday, the Royal Navy carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, with 10 U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II stealth fighters aboard and its strike group alongside, left the United Kingdom, bound for an Indo-Pacific patrol with stops in Japan, India, South Korea and Singapore, according to The Associated Press.

Ships of the 7th Fleet routinely transit the Taiwan Strait, another hotspot where Chinese military aircraft have been flying into Taiwans air defense zone.

olson.wyatt@stripes.com

Twitter: @WyattWOlson

Navy

Wyatt Olson
The Blue Angels perform their Naval Academy Commissioning Week air show over Annapolis, Md., Wednesday, May 26, 2021. (Paul W. Gillespie, The Capital Gazette/TNS)

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (Tribune News Service)  Midshipman 1st Class William Donohoe had seen the Blue Angels before as a plebe.

But this time, standing on Ingram Field with his mother, the soon-to-be Naval Academy graduate felt the show was different.

Not only did he see the show days before he would commission into the Marine Corps, but Donohoe also saw it as someone soon to train as a Marine pilot.

That made the show a little more real to him, Donohoe said. The Blue Angels show is exciting but also inspiring.

Theyre incredible, he said.

Donohoe was one of the many midshipmen watching the Blue Angels demonstration from the Naval Academy Wednesday. Midshipmen were joined by families throughout the Yard, including Hospital Point and Ingram Field.

The superintendent and commandant of the Brigade of Midshipmen were also in attendance.

This was the second time during Commissioning Week that people could see the Blue Angels. They did a practice run Tuesday.

For those watching it from Ingram Field, an announcer emceed the performance, giving viewers a chance to learn more about the different maneuvers and the pilots.

For Kim Donohoe, who stood with her son, William, one day, it could be her son flying the jets, as the career path is not ruled out.

Being a Blue Angel is not necessarily a goal for William Donohoe. It is an elite group of pilots.

Im just trying to take it one step at a time, he said.

However, he is possibly taking one small step toward that career, if that is in his future. He wants to fly jets.

A military career was not always the plan for Donohoe, his mother said, but it is the perfect fit.

It could not be more exciting, and I could not be more proud to see his dreams come true, she said.

Like her son, Kim Donohoe said his future as a pilot changed the way she viewed the Blue Angels.

Its breathtaking, she said.

Midshipman 1st Class Kenneth Harris stood a few feet away from the Donohoes. He is one of the soon-to-be graduates heading to Pensacola, Florida, for flight school.

Harris will train to be a Naval flight officer. He has been drawn toward aviation since he was in high school, Harris said.

This was Harris third time seeing the Blue Angels at the academy. He saw them his plebe and youngster years, he said. But this time is different as someone heading to flight school.

Its just completely inspirational, Harris said.

When he sees the Blue Angels now, he sees the amount of work he will have to do. He sees the skill and trust needed to be able to perform the many maneuvers in the demonstration.

Phenomenal, he said of the show. The coolest thing on Earth.

Harris family  his mother, father, grandmother and younger brother  were flying in to see the Blue Angels performance and his graduation, he said.

He is looking forward to life post-graduation, including getting to work with the people at Pensacola.

Im looking forward to working hard and learning new things, Harris said. Meeting people along the way.

The Blue Angels show is a favorite event for many midshipmen, including firstie Bryce Beckish, who watched the show with his grandmother, mother, father and younger sister.

Its amazing, Beckish said. Everyone always talks about it.

Beckish will commission into the Marine Corps as a 2nd Lieutenant following graduation.

His time at the academy flew by, his father, Michael Beckish said. He is looking forward to watching his son continue to move forward in his chosen career.

Just another step in life, Michael Beckish said.

The Beckish family all enjoyed seeing the show, Bryce Beckish said. But for Michael Beckish, who is a private pilot, the show was a reminder of the precision needed to fly the Super Hornets. They cannot make a mistake, he said.

Its impressive, he said.

___

(c)2021 The Capital (Annapolis, Md.)

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Katrina Bouza
In partnership with the Container Control Programme (CCP) operated jointly by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the WCO COPES Programme1 organized a training course which was delivered online from 24 to 28 May 2021 in Lebanon.

The training course brought together 19 Customs officials from the Port Control Units (PCUs) and Air Cargo Control Units (ACCUs) of Lebanese Customs.

In its fight against the transportation of illicit goods in sea or air containers, the CCP is setting up PCUs and ACCUs at the key seaports and airports of recipient countries.

Personnel working in these units are therefore benefiting from training courses provided for the purpose of improving their capacity in relation to targeting, risk management, establishing Customs infringements and gathering evidence. They are thus able to expedite effective controls while minimizing disruption to the flow of legitimate trade.

This course was organized with these considerations in mind. After the COPES Programme and its team had been presented and the course participants introduced, the agenda for the week was structured around the full spectrum of Customs enforcement activities, from the establishment of a violation, via the methods for gathering evidence and conducting seizures, all the way to the securing of a conviction.

For further information about the COPES Programme, please send your request to: COPES@wcoomd.org.

For further information about CCP, please send your request to: Norbert.Steilen@wcoomd.org.

1Customs Operational Practices for Enforcement and Seizures
(U.S. Air Force)

DAYTON, Ohio (Tribune News Service)  In an era of growing danger in space, Ohio is playing a fundamental role, participants said Tuesday at the Ohio Space Forum.

That Ohio connection was impossible to miss, especially as one panel explored military and federal perspectives. On that panel, three of four members are based in Ohio while a fourth has a boss working at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

"I like to say that Dayton, Ohio, is not just the birthplace of aviation, but it also in my opinion is the birthplace of space intelligence," said Col. Maurizio "Mo" Calabrese, commander of the National Air and Space Intelligence Center (NASIC) at Wright-Patterson, whose 4,000 military and civilian employees analyze scientific and technical intelligence on the nation's adversaries. (The base itself has 30,000 employees, uniformed and civilian.)

In 1956, the then-Air Technical Intelligence Center, or ATIC, was assessing Soviet space capabilities. Not long after that. the center became the Aerospace Technical Intelligence Center.

"So space has been in our name since 1959," Calabrese said in the forum's virtual gathering.

Like the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), also anchored at Wright-Patterson, NASIC is increasingly geared to serve two military branches  the Air and Space forces.

NASIC and its 18 squadrons these days are examining a number of threats, including how Russia and China attempt to jam American communication satellites, which would affect a wide swath of the military, Calabrese said. They're also looking at "kinetic" energy threats, such as anti-satellite missiles and aircraft.

NASIC is standing up the new National Space Intelligence Center at Wright-Patterson as part of Space Force. "Rest assured that the Air Force will have demands and needs and requirements of the Space Force and the Space Intelligence Center, to continue to help us with ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance), assured communication, position navigation and timing, as well as the kind of threats (adversaries) pose to our air operations," the NASIC commander said.

"Our near-peer competitors have weaponized space. ... Space is now an acknowledged warfighting domain," said Kelly Hammett, deputy technical executive officer for space science and technology for AFRL.

One AFRL supporting both the Air and Space forces means making a priority of protecting the "global commons in space," just as the U.S. Navy protects global trade lanes on the seas, Hammett said.

"That will drive much future investment and technology development," he said.

Working with the right private players and commercial partners is a big part of that job, he said, noting that AFRL will double its investments in "basic" space-focused research.

Hammett encouraged companies to contact AFRL.

"The door is wide open. We are not selective," he said. "We are trying to leverage all partnerships in science and technology that we help us get after the mission."

Col. Kimberly Fitzgerald, commander of 178th Wing in Springfield, said she and her colleagues in the Air National Guard recognize that adversaries and competitors have been "upping their abilities."

"We absolutely as an enterprise are now laser-focused on ensuring that we maintain the U.S. dominance in all domains going forward," Fitzgerald said.

Asked by a moderator what "scares" him, Calabrese pointed to the growing amount of debris and objects in orbit and beyond. "It's looks like space junk, until it's not," he said.

He also mentioned threats of the future and threats unseen. What will come from the "dark side of the moon?" Calabrese asked.

Marla Perez-Davis, director of NASA's John Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, noted that the United States is flying a drone helicopter on Mars and is preparing for an eventual return to the moon.

The Glenn center's economic impact in Ohio was more than $1.4 billion in fiscal year 2019, and according to Cleveland State University's Center for Economic Development, the center generates more than $700 million annually in economic activity and creates more than 7,000 jobs.

The $85 million helicopter that has been launched from the Mars Rover Perseverance carries a small patch of fabric from the lower left wing of the 1903 Wright Flyer, and the rover itself has additional, distinct Dayton-area technological connections, thanks to the University of Dayton and L3Harris in Mason.

(c)2021 Springfield News-Sun, Ohio

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A World War I Memorial Day ceremony will be pre-recorded at American Cemetery in Suresnes, France, and available to watch online on the holiday. ()

For many U.S. military members stationed in Europe, attending a Memorial Day commemoration ceremony on the burial grounds of our fallen soldiers from World Wars I and II represents a poignant and meaningful way to pay tribute to those who came before.

There to help us to honor them is the American Battle Monuments Commission, an agency of the executive branch of the federal government established by an act of Congress in 1923. The commission was formed to honor the service and sacrifice of U.S. Armed Forces by creating and maintaining memorial sites, holding commemorative services, and transmitting the legacy of those who gave all to future generations.

The majority of the 57 cemeteries and memorials overseen by the commission are located in Europe, presenting those assigned to the region with unique opportunities to honor the fallen where they lay at rest. While Memorial Day ceremonies are slated to go ahead this year, in line with host-nation COVID-19 guidance and out of an abundance of caution, all such events will be closed to the general public. Instead, the ABMC will broadcast two virtual Memorial Day ceremonies on their Facebook page and YouTube channel. The World War I Memorial Day ceremony will begin at 4 p.m. Central European Time on May 31, to be followed by the World War II Memorial Day ceremony one hour later. The World War I service was pre-recorded at Suresnes American Cemetery; that which focused on World War II was filmed at Epinal American Cemetery. Both of these sites are in France.

While the ceremonies themselves are off-limits, some of the ABMC cemetery grounds and memorials will be open to the public over the weekend, subject to host nation COVID-19 regulations. In these places, the gates will close at a designated time to allow staff and host nation guests to render the proper honors while respecting social distancing and public gathering restrictions. Once the ceremonies have concluded, the gates will reopen. Before considering any cross-border travel, do bear in mind that many COVID-19 travel restrictions remain in place, including those between neighboring countries within the European Union. Online: abmc.gov/cemeteries-memorials

The ABMCs sphere of responsibility within Europe was expanded on Dec. 12, 2020, the date the Battle of the Bulge Monument in Belgium officially became its 31st federal monument. Previously known as the Mardasson Memorial, the monument stands as an expression of gratitude from the Belgian people to the American soldiers who perished in the U.S.s largest and bloodiest WWII engagement. The monument was transferred on the basis of a 99-year lease between the Kingdom of Belgium and ABMC, with a nominal lease payment of 1 euro to be paid annually. Plans over the next several years call for the restoration of the memorial, along with enhancement of its landscaping, improvements in its accessibility and the construction of a visitor center. Online: tinyurl.com/2pex5cyz

The ABMC isnt the only organization to task itself with looking after American graves and memorials located outside the continental U.S. American War Memorials Overseas is a private organization that works to document, promote, and care for gravesites and memorials falling outside of U.S. government auspices. With donations from individuals and corporations and grants from private foundations, the nonprofit cooperates with other organizations at the local, national and international level to safeguard the future of hundreds of smaller memorials within their historical contexts.

A key objective of American War Memorials Overseas is to record the existence and location of these places and to make this information readily available. To this end, they maintain and continuously update a database currently listing 2307 memorials at 1709 sites. The database is searchable by a host of different parameters, including the name of the person honored, type of memorial and the country in which it is located. A search of war memorials in Bavaria, Germany, for example, reveals the existence of a monument to American veterans in the Alter Friedhof cemetery in Schweinfurt; a plaque honoring the 3rd US Infantry Division in Berchtesgaden, and a monument on the banks of the Danube commemorating three American soldiers who drowned in a training accident south of Kelheim. To learn more or support their mission, see uswarmemorials.org

Foreign and Outlying Departments and Posts of the American Legion, FODPAL for short, refers to the some 250 posts of The American Legion located outside the borders of the continental U.S. FODPAL trustees are charged with the custody, control and administration of the Overseas Graves Decoration Trust Fund. Established in the 1920s, the fund provides U.S. flags to be flown at cemeteries and burial sites outside the control of the American Battle Monuments Commission. It also disperses funds to honor, preserve and decorate the individual graves of U.S. veterans buried overseas. FODPAL sends its funding requests to The American Legion, which dispenses the funds annually on a first-come, first-served basis. Online: tinyurl.com/dbrncucn
Buy Photo Akiruno City Rajikku is a small eatery in western Tokyo that specializes in whale meat. (Theron Godbold/Stars and Stripes)

Cultures around the world enjoy different delicacies. From fermented shark to Rocky Mountain oysters, tastes vary widely.

One such delicacy in Japan is whale.

Japan has been hunting the largest mammal on Earth for its oil, bones and meat for more than 2,000 years, but the height of the industry came after World War II.

During Japans post-war recovery, whale meat became a precious source of protein. About 154,000 tons were consumed domestically in 1960, a figure that afterward declined.

These days, only a few thousand pounds of whale meat are consumed yearly throughout the country and most of that is eaten by the older generation, who say it reminds them of their childhood, according to a January 2019 article by Nippon.com.

With a steady decline in consumption, Japans catch limit for whales is 383, and the country is limited to fishing in its territorial waters and exclusive economic zones.

The United States and many other nations and environmental groups oppose whale hunting as cruel and unnecessary. Opponents of whale hunting say the animals have yet to recover from past commercial hunting and environmental degradation.

Japan counters that whale hunting is a cultural tradition. Only Japan, Iceland and Norway continue to hunt whales, according to the International Whaling Commission. Other nations abide by a moratorium on whaling that started in 1985.

Japan sets its own catch limits and reports its catch to the whaling commission.

When I learned that a restaurant near my home served whale, I was curious. I wondered if the delicacy was worth the moral implications of tasting it, but in the end decided to try it.

Akiruno City Rajikku is a small restaurant and purveyor of whale meat and goods about 10 minutes from Yokota Air Base in western Tokyo.

Finding the eatery isnt hard. A 5-foot-tall cartoon whale serves as the shop logo and stands outside to greet you. Inside, photos of ships and posters of whales cover the small space that has seating for eight.

Ordering isnt difficult if you use your phone. The website has an English translation option, and then you can point at the photo on your mobile phone for the cashier to start on your order.

Buy Photo Akiruno City Rajikku's whale ginger lunch set comes with a large amount of white rice with pan fried meat on top. A small salad and pickles came with the meal. (Theron Godbold/Stars and Stripes)

I tried the whale ginger lunch set for about $7. The set came with a large amount of white rice with pan-fried whale meat on top. A small salad and pickles came with the meal.

Buy Photo Whale-meat restaurant Akiruno City Rajikku has lunch sets starting at around $5. (Theron Godbold/Stars and Stripes)

The taste reminded me of a combination between seared tuna and ribeye, but not quite either one. The ginger that came sprinkled on top gave the meal a fresh, airy flavor, though that couldnt cut through the slightly greasy taste.

After finishing my meal, I was happy to have tried something new, but its something I will try only once.

godbold.theron@stripes.com Twitter: @GodboldTheron

Location: K102 Amema, Akiruno, Tokyo 197-0825 Hours: Open 11 a. m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Saturday; closed Sunday. Prices: Lunch sets cost between $5 to $10. Dress: Casual Directions: A 10-minute drive from Yokota Air Base via Route 7. Google plus code: P7FV+7V Akiruno, Tokyo Information: Online: a-rajic.com (English available).
Buy Photo In a Jan. 10, 2017 photo, Kathleen Hicks, then director of the International Security Program at the Center for Strategic & International Studies, testifies at a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing. (Carlos Bongioanni/Stars and Stripes)

WASHINGTON  Kathleen Hicks will become the first woman to serve as the Pentagons No. 2 ranking civilian after the Senate confirmed her late Monday as deputy defense secretary.

Hicks is a longtime Washington national security expert and former Defense Department official who recently led President Joe Bidens Pentagon transition team. She was confirmed by voice vote and expected to be sworn into her new job early Tuesday afternoon, the Pentagon announced.

Typically, deputy defense secretaries have been responsible for running the Defense Departments day-to-day business and management operations. But Hicks could take a higher profile role as Defense Secretary Lloyd Austins No. 2.

Austin, a retired four-star general who required a waiver of law to serve in the top Pentagon job, told lawmakers last month that he would rely heavily on Hicks civilian experiences as he guided the Pentagon and military. He promised she would have considerable say in policy decisions.

If confirmed, I will assist [Defense] Secretary Austin in bringing enduring, consistent focus to total force health and quality, Hicks said Feb. 2 during her confirmation hearing. We must root out violent extremism, systemic racism, sexual assault and harassment, and other inhibitors to readiness.

In a tweet Tuesday morning, Austin welcomed Hicks to the Pentagon.

I couldn't be more pleased to welcome Dr. Kathleen Hicks as the 35th Deputy Secretary of Defense, and I'm especially proud to be working with the first woman to fill the role, he wrote.

Hicks served as a career official in the Pentagon for about a decade, beginning as an intern in 1993. She became a senior defense official during former President Barack Obama's administration, serving as the deputy undersecretary of defense for strategy, plans and forces from 2009 to 2012. She was promoted in 2012 to principal deputy undersecretary of defense for policy, a job that she served in for about one year. More recently, she has worked as a senior adviser and national security expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies think tank in Washington.

She is a highly regarded defense policy expert who has served in multiple administrations with integrity and distinction, Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Jack Reed, D-R.I., said in a statement. She is a true professional. I am pleased she will join Secretary Austin in leading the Department of Defense forward, defending our nation, and upholding our values.

Like Austin, Hicks listed the coronavirus pandemic as the Pentagons top domestic issue during her confirmation hearing. She was set to meet with the defense secretary Tuesday afternoon for an update on pandemic-related issues, according to a DOD statement.

She also agreed with her new boss that checking Chinas increased military power and global influence efforts presented the Pentagon with its largest international problem. Hicks told lawmakers the United States must commit to ensuring its troops were trained and provided top-of-the-line weaponry to deter potential aggression from China and other adversaries, such as Russia, Iran and North Korea.

"Armed conflict between the United States and China is not desirable, and it is not inevitable," she told the Senate Armed Services Committee. "The U.S. military plays a critical role in preventing that outcome. Even as we stand ready today, we must modernize our concepts, capabilities, workforce and budget for deterrence to endure.

dickstein.corey@stripes.com Twitter: @CDicksteinDC

Migrated
Why all the fuss?

That is how retired U.S. Army Col. Ralph Puckett reacted when he learned he was to receive the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary bravery and effectiveness in combat during the Korean War. The modesty befits the man, and reflects his selflessness, a distinctive human virtue.

Memorial Day is a fitting time to honor him, along with the men and women in our military who gave their lives. This special day originated shortly after our Civil War as Decoration Day.

From the beginning, parades have been an important feature. From ancient times, surviving warriors are viewed as closely associated with comrades who died.

Col. Puckett may not be a household name across America, but he is a legendary and inspirational figure within the U.S. Army. His extraordinary career highlights the strong dedication military service can develop, in distinctive ways.

The Korean War began in late June 1950 when North Korean forces invaded South Korea. U.S. President Harry Truman immediately decided to support the United Nations effort to defeat the invasion. President Dwight Eisenhower achieved an armistice in July 1953.

In late 1950, enormous numbers of the Peoples Liberation Army of China intervened. The offensive surprised U.N. commander Gen. Douglas MacArthur and staff, and serious reversals followed.

This was the situation on the ground when young 1st Lt. Puckett, in command of the Eighth Army Ranger Company, was ordered to occupy Hill 205. They secured the strategically important high ground but were under heavy fire, and cut off.

Pucketts leadership proved vital. He repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire in order to survey terrain and protect his men.

The Rangers held the hill against five massive human wave attacks. Puckett ultimately ordered his men to retreat from what had become an untenable position.

Badly wounded, he told his men to leave him. They refused to do so. For his actions in that battle, he received the Distinguished Service Cross, which has now been upgraded to the Medal of Honor.

During the Vietnam War, Puckett again served in combat in command. He displayed comparable courage and leadership.

On May 21, President Joe Biden awarded Puckett the Medal of Honor at a ceremony at the White House. In attendance was President Moon Jae-in of South Korea, who was visiting Washington to meet with Biden. This is the first time the leader of a foreign government has attended a Medal of Honor ceremony.

Holding the ceremony during Moons visit is admirable. That war forged the important, enduring alliance between our two peoples. The Korean War also transformed the Cold War to a broadly global conflict.

As a very young man, Moons political activism led to arrest and imprisonment. The dictatorship of Park Chung-hee was merciless in punishing dissidence of any kind. Reflecting that experience, he decided to pursue a career as a human rights lawyer.

This commitment to political activism was balanced by dedication to military service, going beyond what is required of young men of military age in South Korea. Moon also served in the Republic of Korea (South Korea) Army. He joined the Special Forces, and saw action in the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) along the 38th Parallel that divides North and South Korea.

South Korea maintained 50,000 troops in South Vietnam during our long war there. They reciprocated American help during the Korean War.

Memorial Day is also an appropriate time to reflect on the importance of those close allies who aid us, in war and in peace.

Arthur I. Cyr is Clausen Distinguished Professor at Carthage College and author of After the Cold War  American Foreign Policy, Europe and Asia.

President Joe Biden presents the Medal of Honor to retired U.S. Army Col. Ralph Puckett, in the East Room of the White House, Friday, May 21, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) (Alex Brandon)
Local bars and nightclubs will no longer be off-limits to fully vaccinated personnel with U.S. Forces Korea starting Friday, May 28, 2021. (Pixabay)

A coronavirus-induced alcohol drought is ending for fully vaccinated U.S. personnel on the Korean Peninsula.

Starting Friday, local bars and nightclubs will no longer be off-limits to those associated with U.S. Forces Korea  service members, Defense Department civilian workers, contractors and their families  USFK announced Thursday on Facebook.

However, all bars and clubs remain off-limits to partially vaccinated and non-vaccinated individuals, the post said.

Seoul is another exception. The pandemic prohibition still applies to Area II, which includes the capital city and the surrounding area.

Many other activities remain off-limits, including karaoke rooms, saunas and bathhouses. Off-post gyms are allowed with approval from a colonel in command or the civilian equivalent.

South Korean rules on social distancing, masks and business hours still apply, according to USFK, which removed a mask mandate for the fully vaccinated on its installations May 15.

Lifting the ban on bars and clubs was possible because USFK had made the COVID-19 vaccine available to all of its eligible population and had achieved a greater than 75% vaccination rate, spokesman Col. Lee Peters said in a video posted to Facebook on Thursday.

By comparison, host-nation vaccination rates are about 4% in South Korea and 2.5% in Japan.

Another 12 people with the U.S. military in South Korea and Japan have contracted COVID-19, the coronavirus respiratory disease, according to reports made by 6 p.m. Thursday.

Eight people tested positive after arriving in South Korea between May 10 and Tuesday, USFK announced in a news release Wednesday.

Four of those patients landed at Osan Air Base from the U.S. via a government-chartered passenger service on May 10, 12, 19 and Monday. The other four arrived at Incheon International Airport in Seoul on May 11, 12, 21 and Tuesday, the release said.

Five came up positive on their first mandatory COVID-19 test, and three were positive on the test required to exit quarantine. All were subsequently quarantined at either Osan or Camp Humphreys.

In Japan, the Marine Corps had four new cases on Okinawa, two each at Camps Hansen and Kinser, according to a Facebook post Thursday by Marine Corps Installations Pacific.

Tokyo reported another 684 people tested positive Thursday, according to public broadcaster NHK. The prefecture also reported 11 deaths.

In South Korea, 629 people had contracted the virus Wednesday, including 216 in Seoul and 168 in Gyeonggi province, where Humphreys and Osan are located, according to the Central Disease Control Headquarters.

Starting in July, anyone in South Korea who has received their first dose of a vaccine may go without masks, a government incentive to spur more inoculations, according to Japans Kyodo News on Wednesday.

For fully vaccinated individuals, the ban on gatherings of five or more people will be lifted, too, according to the report.

ditzler.joseph@stripes.com

Twitter: @JosephDitzler
The WCO successfully delivered a five-day advanced virtual Post Clearance Audit (PCA) workshop for the benefit of Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA) under the framework of the HMRC-WCO-UNCTAD Programme funded by the Government of the United Kingdom via Her Majestys Revenue and Customs (HMRC). This programme aims at supporting developing countries to effectively implement the World Trade Organizations Trade Facilitation Agreement.

The workshop was conducted using the Advanced PCA Workshop Package developed under the previous phase of the HMRC-WCO-UNCTAD Programme, adapted to suit a blended training approach and the needs of the LRA. It provided an opportunity for participants to enhance their professional and operational competencies through the provision of practical tools and techniques to effectively conduct systems-based audits, focusing on a traders systems of internal controls, within the context of Customs-Business partnership. Despite the limitation of network connection and time constraints, the participants were very motivated. The interactive communication between the facilitators and participants as well as the exercises completed, helped to develop the practical understanding of the concept and techniques of systems-based audit in line with Article 7.5 of the TFA

The WCO looks forward to continue its collaboration with the LRA under the framework of the Mercator Programme.

For more information, please, contact capacity.building@wcoomd.org.
U.S. Army paratroopers of 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade give a last salute to Pfc. Ian N. Morosoff, who died May 1 from injuries sustained in a car accident, at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, May 24, 2021. (Paolo Bovo/U.S. Army)

VICENZA, Italy  Pfc. Ian Morosoff was remembered at his memorial as a promising young man who loved his friends and family and reveled in his time as a paratrooper with the 173rd Airborne Brigade.

Morosoff was someone who sought out challenges and self-improvement, from running Vicenzas punishing Monte Berico steps without pause to preparing for online college classes, said Lt. Col. Kitefre Oboho, his battalion commander.

But he also had a reputation as a fun-loving, easy-going paratrooper known for his optimism, he said during Morosoffs memorial on Monday.

Pfc. Ian N. Morosoff, a 173rd Airborne Brigade soldier, was killed May 1, 2021, in a car crash near Caserma Ederle, in Vicenza, Italy. (U.S. Army)

Morosoff, 19, an infantryman with Company B, 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, was killed in a May 1 car crash. He was riding in an SUV that had hit a parked car, a light pole and a road sign before rolling over, the newspaper Giornale di Vicenza reported.

Morosoff was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other paratroopers in the vehicle sustained minor injuries. The soldier driving the SUV had a blood alcohol level more than three times over the .05 driving limit, the newspaper reported.

A brigade spokesman declined to comment on the report or name the soldier who was driving.

Morosoff often shared stories of his family, including his parents, twin brother Isaac, and his dog, Chance, who until this day finds his way to Ians bed even in his absence, said Oboho, who choked up during his eulogy.

Morosoff was a high school lacrosse player from Suquamish, Wash., who joined the Army last year. He arrived at the brigade, his first posting, in March.

He was immediately assimilated into the Legion Company family, said Capt. David Tarsa, his company commander. The first time Tarsa met him, he said, Morosoff struck him as poised, confident, proud, and (with) a burning desire to serve his country.

I remember thinking to myself, Hes going to be a good one, Tarsa said.

Staff Sgt. Dennis Dowdy, Morosoffs squad leader, said that when hed quiz Morosoff about the M4 assault rifle or the five paragraphs of an operations order, hed sometimes answer incorrectly.

He would do his pushups and continue to study, eventually memorizing some of the knowledge he was expected to learn, Dowdy said.

Pfc. Tywan Johnson, whod been with Morosoff in basic training, airborne school and in the 173rd, described him as a supportive friend and confidant.

There were times where I would doubt myself ... but every time Morosoff always reassured me that I could do it, Johnson said.

Oboho, in his remarks, called on the words of the ancient Greek playwright Aeschylus to offer comfort.

Even in our sleep, pain which cannot forget

falls drop by drop upon the heart

until, in our own despair, against our will,

comes wisdom through the awful grace of God.

Morosoff is survived by his father Rudy, mother Sarah and brother, Isaac.

His awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal and the Parachutist Badge.

montgomery.nancy@stripes.com

Twitter: @montgomerynance
Buy Photo Students at DODEA's Bahrain School will transition to remote learning May 31, 2021, as the base goes into health protection condition level Charlie, amid a rise in new coronavirus cases on the island. (Joshua Karsten/Stars and Stripes)

Defense Department students in Bahrain will begin remote learning starting Monday amid a sharp rise in new coronavirus cases in the small island kingdom, school officials said.

The decision to close the classrooms came after the Navy base in Bahrain announced it would shift to the second-highest health protection condition risk level, school officials said in a letter to parents and staff members Thursday.

HPCON Charlie indicates sustained community transmission, according to the Pentagon.

Bahrain, home to U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and 5th Fleet headquarters, had a seven-day average incidence rate of 170 new cases per 100,000 people as of Wednesday, according to figures from The New York Times. On Wednesday, 2,791 new cases were reported, along with an ongoing average of 15.6 deaths per day.

About 45% of the islands 1.75 million people are fully vaccinated, The New York Times data shows.

Bahrain announced new measures Wednesday to tackle the recent spike in cases. They include closures of malls and commercial shops, restaurants and cafes  except for delivery and takeout services  as well as barbershops and hair salons, gyms, pools and beaches.

The country also barred social gatherings in homes and suspended in-person learning at schools. The measures will remain in effect until at least June 10.

No decision has been made on how long Defense Department classes in Bahrain will remain in remote learning, said Stephen Smith, a Department of Defense Education Activity-Europe spokesman.

We will continue to work with military and public health officials to monitor the situation and will provide updates as necessary, the letter said.

The last day of school for DODEA students in Bahrain is June 10.

svan.jennifer@stripes.com

Twitter: @stripesktown
Popular Mobilization Forces surround the heavily fortified Green Zone, where the Prime Minister's offices are located in Baghdad, Iraq, Wednesday, May 26, 2021. (Hadi Mizban/AP)

BAGHDAD  Tensions mounted in Iraq's capital on Wednesday after the arrest of a militia commander on terrorism charges, prompting a dangerous showdown by the detainee's paramilitary supporters and the Iraqi government.

The confrontation began after Iraqi security forces arrested at dawn militia leader Qassim Mahmoud Musleh based on a judicial investigation and arrest warrant on terrorism charges, Iraq's military said in a statement. The statement said he was being questioned by a joint investigative committee.

Musleh is the head of the Popular Mobilization Forces in Anbar province. The PMF is a state-sanctioned group comprised of an array of militias formed to defeat the Islamic State group in 2014. Among the most powerful members of the group are Iran-backed Shiite militia groups.

Shortly after the arrest, forces affiliated with the PMF, which maintains offices inside the heavily fortified Green Zone, were deployed surrounding Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi's headquarters.

Tensions reached fever pitch when Iraqi security forces and the elite Counter-Terrorism Service were deployed to protect the government and diplomatic missions, sparking fears of violence. Some armed PMF factions gathered around the Green Zone's entrance gates.

The presence of the PMF inside the seat of Iraq's government was considered by some senior Iraqi government officials as a way to pressure al-Kadhimi to release Musleh.

The prime minister described the show of force as "a serious violation of the Iraqi constitution and the laws in force," adding in a statement "we have directed an immediate investigation into these movements."

Al-Kadhimi later held a meeting with senior Shiite political leaders who hold sway over the PMF. The premier also ordered the formation of an investigative committee comprised of intelligence from both defense and interior ministries and the PMF security and National Security.

Three PMF officials said after the meeting Musleh was transferred from the custody of the Joint Operations Command, which oversees an array of Iraqi security forces, to PMF security.

An Iraqi intelligence official said Musleh's arrest was recommended by the Anti-Corruption Committee headed by Lt. Gen. Ahmed Abu Ragheef, and was done based on a judicial order. The charges accuse Musleh of corruption and complicity in the assassinations of Iraqi activists in the southern city of Karbala. All four officials spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the subject.

The incident highlights the government's struggles to assert the rule of law and reign in powerful militia groups. Attempts to arrest militia-affiliated individuals in the past have unfolded along a similar pattern: Pressure from militia groups and concessions on the part of the government.

A raid carried out by the CTS last summer against the Iran-backed Kataib Hezbollah led to over a dozen arrests. All were eventually released after pressure and threats of escalatory violence against the government.

The rising number of assassination of outspoken activists sparked outrage and protests this week particularly after prominent protest organizer Ehab al-Wazni was gunned down in Karbala this month.

International condemnation flooded in from the United Nations and other diplomatic missions in Baghdad.

"Any arrest case should run its course, as goes for any Iraqi," tweeted U.N. Special Representative to Iraq Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert. "Nobody should resort to a show of force to get their way. Such behavior weakens the Iraqi state and further erodes public trust. State institutions must be respected at all times. Nobody is above the law."
WASHINGTON  Amy Logan first experienced physical abuse three years into her marriage to a sergeant major in the Army.

Logan was away from friends and family once she moved to a new military base, similar to many military spouses who are isolated and unaware of resources available to them.

Several months after the move, her marriage turned violent, Logan told House lawmakers Tuesday.

One night, Logans husband at the time charged at her, grabbed her shoulders and his knee struck her in the leg after Logan attempted to discuss how her husband spoke down to their child for crying. A few days after the assault, Logan went with her child to a women's safe shelter and eventually filed for a divorce, she said.

Former military spouse Amy Logan testifies at a House Armed Services Committee hearing on domestic abuse, on May 25, 2021 . (House Armed Services Committee)

He told me, I would rather go to prison than let you leave with our child. I took this as a verbal threat to my life, Logan testified during a hearing on domestic violence in the military held by the personnel subpanel of the House Armed Services Committee.

Incidents of spouse abuse in the military are at about 1.1%, according to Defense Department data from 2019. That rate is more than twice that of the national population, which is .42%, said Jessica Strong, co-director of applied research at Blue Star Families, a nonprofit organization that advocates for military families.

Many factors that are endemic to the military lifestyle placed military spouses at greater risk of experiencing [intimate-partner violence], including economic vulnerability, social isolation, mental-health concerns and military culture itself, Strong said.

Logan said she called the local police three times in response to different incidents related to her now ex-husbands behavior, but the local Army base was never notified. After the first incident, Logans leg began to swell from the force of the impact, and she was not able to bend her knee.

A military and family life counselor from her husbands brigade attended every court hearing during their eventual divorce and testified on behalf of Logans ex-husband despite Logans testimony on the physical abuse that she endured, she told lawmakers.

Logan took matters into her own hands by reporting her former husband to the military, yet a case review committee did not grant her a military protection order. The colonel who led the committee was her husbands brigade commander, who determined the sergeant major should remain in his command.

Later, Logan filed a report to the inspector generals office on base over how the colonel handled her case. The IG took the complaint directly to the colonel, Logan said, the person who her complaint was filed against.

She was told the colonel would send her a letter stating that he received the report and took action, but Logan never received that letter.

A congressional inquiry filed by Logan also resulted in a commanding major general opening an internal Army investigation, known as a 15-6. But Logan said she still has not been told what action was taken as a result of the investigation, despite the risk she took in coming forward.

Throughout all of these military investigations, I felt they questioned the validity of my complaint, based on what I did not do instead of what was done to me. Individuals in the military responsible for decisions regarding domestic abuse need to learn more about abuse, Logan said.

The installation, Logans ex-husband and the colonel were not named in Logans written testimony to House lawmakers.

Logans testimony reflects gaps in the militarys response to survivors of domestic violence, said Rep. Jackie Speier, D-Calif., chairwoman of the House subcommittee.

Logans testimony exposes all the flaws in the militarys handling of domestic violence we can no longer ignore this, Speier said.

Those shortfalls were highlighted in a recent report from the nonpartisan watchdog, the Government Accountability Office that concluded the Defense Department must enhance its prevention, response and oversight to domestic abuse.

The hearing also comes at a time when the militarys handling of sexual assault and sexual harassment cases has become a flashpoint in Congress this year, while the issue of domestic violence and abuse in the military and how those cases are handled has not gotten as much attention.

More than 40,000 incidents met the Defense Department criteria for domestic abuse between 2015 and 2019 and 74% of those incidents were physical abuse, Speier said.

Brenda Farrell, director of defense capabilities and management for the GAO, wrote the watchdog report and testified at the hearing. She said the top concern is the department is not collecting comprehensive data on the number of allegations of domestic violence and related actions taken by commanders, despite a statutory requirement since 1999 to do so.

As a result, DOD is unable to assess the scope of alleged abuse, and the rate of substantiation. To address these challenges, we recommended that DOD clarify its guidance to the services for submitting data and develop a quality control process to ensure complete and accurate data on allegations of abuse, she told House lawmakers.

Additionally, the report found gaps exist in creating awareness of domestic abuse, reporting options and resources and victim risk assessment. The military services also performed limited oversight of commanders' disposition of domestic violence incidents, or oversight of a commanders decision whether to pursue a court-martial and other forms of punishment or to take no action at all.

Speier asked department officials who appeared at the hearing about why the picture on the number of domestic abuse incidents is incomplete.

Patricia Barron, deputy assistant secretary of defense for military community and family policy, said she is committed to making sure that this solution gets to fruition.

We have started on some of the procedures that we need in order to get this done, she said.

Speier said the subcommittee is going to require another meeting with Barron in the next couple of months because this is just really unacceptable.

Defense Department officials would also not confirm Tuesday whether the rate of intimate-partner violence is higher in the military than in the civilian population in response to a question on the rates from Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, D-Pa. They said they would respond to the congresswoman in writing at a later date.

I believe that there is data and I would welcome it when it comes back this is something that's really concerning when your business - and I'm an Air Force vet - your business is national security and readiness she said.

Houlahan asked what steps the department has taken to address a culture of toxic gender tropes that create an unsafe environment for service members and military families.

The Defense Department has directed the RAND Corp. to examine the factors of military life that might lend themselves to domestic abuse and intimate-partner violence, Barron said.

Army Col. Steve Lewis, family advocacy program manager, said the testimony from Logan, as well as the recent independent report on the toxic command climate at Fort Hood, gives us an opportunity to really take a deep look at the climate and culture of the Army.

Climate and culture are also part of the Armys Peoples First Task Force, established in response to the Fort Hood report released in December, Lewis said.

Cammarata.Sarah@stripes.com

Twittter: @sarahjcamm
MOILNE, Iowa (Tribune News Service)  A Davenport, Iowa, teacher is on unpaid suspension and is facing U.S. Army charges related to child-sexual assault offenses.

Gary L. Goins faces court martial based on four criminal charges stemming from alleged sexual assault of a minor while he was serving in late December 2020, military court records show.

Goins is a Davenport teacher who once ran for the Bettendorf School Board and is a U.S. Army reservist at Fort Bragg, N.C. He previously worked for the Rock Island-Milan School District. He also is active with the Boy Scouts and is a certified wrestling official, according to his election-time biography.

The Armys charging document describes Goins as a Staff Sergeant with the Security Assistance Training Company.

The Davenport School Districts human resources office confirmed Goins has been placed on unpaid leave and is not teaching. He was hired by the district Aug. 7, 2013, as a teacher.

Charges against Goins officially were filed March 19. The charging documents do not say where the offenses allegedly took place.

The first charge alleges on or about Dec. 24 he sexually assaulted a child between the ages of 12 and 16, initiating intercourse. The charge also states Goins touched the minor in three different places with his hand or mouth.

The first charge also alleges Goins sent text messages to the minor communicating indecent language. The Army says Goins texted the minor, saying Im sorry you are so sexy, You are sexy, and When was the last time you had sex?

The second charge alleges Goins gave alcohol to a minor, while the third charge accuses him of directing the minor to delete text messages between Goins and the child.

The fourth charge accuses Goins of lying to a Diplomatic Security agent when he claimed he did not have the minors cell phone number and lying again when he told the agent the minor voluntarily entered a bathroom with him.

He is to be arraigned Friday.

___

(c)2021 Moline Dispatch and Rock Island Argus, Ill.

Visit Moline Dispatch and Rock Island Argus, Ill. at www.trib.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

(Damon Kasberg/ Air Force)
NORFOLK, Va. (Tribune News Service)  Zquan Steeps left the tiniest bit of himself where a gunman burst into the home of a 20-year Navy veteran and shot her dead while her 9-year-old son watched.

But his DNA at the crime scene wasnt enough to prosecute him for murder.

Steeps had been charged with second-degree murder and illegally using a gun, accused of shooting Charlene Ryals in December 2016 inside her Roland Park house. But on Thursday, prosecutor Shavaughn Banks requested all charges against him be dropped, and District Judge Joseph Lindsey did just that. Banks said police need to do more investigating to strengthen the case.

We do not feel we could successfully proceed, she said.

Steeps is expected to get out of jail Thursday afternoon.

It was a tough case to begin with. For years, police had nothing to go on, Banks said. Then, in June 2019, they caught a break. Steeps had submitted his DNA to Pennsylvania officials for an unrelated criminal case. It matched DNA Norfolk police had collected from Ryals front door handle. He was charged and extradited to Norfolk.

There was also a witness: her 9-year-old son. He saw everything.

This is what he told police:

Ryals murder started with her trying to help someone. Around 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2016, a woman knocked on the door of her house in the 500 block of Garren Avenue. She told Ryals her car had broken down and asked if she could use her phone. When Ryals turned away to get the phone, a man and a second woman wearing masks burst into her house.

Then the man shot Ryals seven times and fled.

As his mom was dying, the 9-year-old boy called 911.

Paramedics took Ryals to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, where a doctor pronounced her dead, homicide detectives wrote in search warrant affidavits. During an autopsy, medical examiner Elizabeth Kinnison determined she died from multiple gunshot wounds.

Norfolk police have declined to comment on a possible motive for the killing and would not say whether detectives believe Steeps was the gunman or involved in another way.

Ryals had just finished a 20-year nursing career in the Navy and was getting ready to go on a big family trip to Disney World for the holidays, her relatives said in 2016. She had a 15-year-old daughter and 9-year-old son at the time of her death, according to her mother, Teresa Campbell.

Ryals went to high school in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., in the mid-1990s, where she played volleyball, ran track and cross country, was on the debate team and was prom queen, Campbell added. After graduating, she joined the Navy.

Why would someone kill her? The only explanation family members could think of in December 2016 was someone tried to rob her and things went bad.

I dont understand this at all, her sister, Chanell Ware, said. She didnt bother anybody.

2021 The Virginian-Pilot.

Visit pilotonline.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
RALEIGH, N.C. (Tribune News Service)  A former Fort Bragg soldier was sentenced to more than three years in federal prison for arranging marriages between foreign nationals and U.S. soldiers in order to skirt immigration law and gain married soldier benefits for the service-members.

In August, Ghana-born, Ebenezer "Ben" Yeboah Asane, 37, pleaded guilty in federal court in New Bern to marriage fraud and conspiracy commit marriage fraud. On Thursday, he was sentenced to 44 months in prison and three years probation.

While stationed at Fort Bragg, Asane planned and organized sham marriages of several foreign nationals from Ghana to U.S. Army soldiers based at Fort Bragg, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina.

The purpose of the conspiracy was for the foreign-born nationals to evade U.S. immigration laws and obtain lawful permanent residence status and for the soldiers to receive payments from the military for food and housing, allowances provided to married service members.

The marriages happened in Cumberland County, including one involving his brother who was convicted of visa fraud at trial in Norfolk, Virginia, last month, according to a news release.

Asane recruited additional soldiers into the fraudulent scheme to orchestrate photographs to give the appearance the marriages were legitimate and to submit false statements to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service in support of the sham marriages, the release said. Once charged, he also attempted to obstruct justice by asking a witness to lie under oath.

He was arrested on Oct. 23, 2019, in Alabama. Eleven others were also charged in the scheme.

(c)2021 The Fayetteville Observer (Fayetteville, N.C.)

Visit The Fayetteville Observer (Fayetteville, N.C.) at www.fayobserver.com

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A sergeant and a private at Fort Bragg sought to arrange sham marriages between soldiers and immigrants according to federal court documents. (Logan Mock-Bunting/Getty Images) (Logan Mock-Bunting)
Last Memorial Day, Emily Domenech was visiting her grandfather's grave in Arlington National Cemetery when she noticed the military memorial was largely empty. The pandemic was raging and COVID restrictions allowed only family members to visit.

Domenech pulled out her cellphone and made an offer on Twitter:

"Does anyone have buddies buried in Arlington who they would like visited today?" she asked. "Since only family members are allowed in, I would be honored to pay respects on your behalf ..."

Does anyone have buddies buried in Arlington who they would like visited today? Since only family members are allowed in, I would be honored to pay respects on your behalf...  Emily Domenech (@ehdomenech) May 25, 2020

Domenech, 36, said she thought she might hear from one or two friends. Instead, by the end of the day hundreds of people had reached out with requests  mostly strangers  and her tweet went viral.

On a day she planned to spend 30 minutes at her grandfather's grave, she ended up at the cemetery for six hours to honor soldiers she'd never known and share photos of their gravesites on Twitter for their loved ones.

"I visited 60 graves and had such a huge response, I thought, 'Something special is happening here,' " said Domenech, a former Pentagon employee who lives in Alexandria and recently became a senior policy adviser to House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif.

She said there was only one option for Memorial Day 2021: "I had to do it again."

Cant make it to Arlington Cemetery this weekend? Participate in #TheHonorProject by learning the name, visiting the grave, and sharing the story of a fallen hero from your community  https://t.co/Pdw2hisPwe  Emily Domenech (@ehdomenech) May 27, 2021

Domenech now plans to spend most of this holiday weekend at Arlington to visit graves for others who can't make the trip, even though most pandemic restrictions have been lifted.

This year, she will have help.

The Travis Manion Foundation, a support organization for veterans and the families of fallen soldiers, heard about Domenech's efforts and coordinated several hundred volunteers through an arrangement they call the Honor Project.

From Friday to Sunday, the group will place small wooden American flags at the gravesites of 4,000 veterans buried at Arlington, then share photos on social media for their friends and family under the hashtag #TheHonorProject. People can register online to have a volunteer visit a loved one's grave.

"I never expected that my spur-of-the-moment tweet would launch a movement, but now I'm hoping this is something we can do every year," Domenech said.

"Not everyone can make it to Arlington, even without a pandemic going on," she said. "This is a way for them to still take part on Memorial Day, even if they live on the other side of the country."

For Domenech, visiting Arlington National Cemetery has long been a family tradition, she said. Her grandfather John Domenech, an Army colonel who served during World War II and the Korean and Vietnam wars, was buried there in 2006.

"I visit his grave every Memorial Day and Veterans Day to honor him," said Domenech, "and usually, it's pretty crowded."

After her tweet last year from the cemetery, Domenech heard from a woman whose husband died in Afghanistan months earlier and had recently been buried in Arlington, she said.

"She hadn't yet seen his headstone, so I was able to take a photo of it and send it to her," Domenech said. "It was moving to support a person I'd never met. And it was cool to have that personal connection."

Domenech had a handful of carnations with her that day, which she left on as many graves as possible.

"I ran out pretty quickly, but it was still nice to be able to take a photo and tag people on social media," she said. "Judging by the response I received, it meant a lot."

One of those who noticed her efforts was Ryan Manion, whose brother is the inspiration behind the Travis Manion Foundation. In 2007, Manion was killed during an ambush on patrol in Iraq while aiding wounded fellow Marines.

Ryan Manion, who is president of the foundation and lives in Doylestown, Pa., admired what Domenech had done and told her she'd like to help.

"Here she was with this tangible idea, saying, 'I want to honor your loved one,'" said Manion, 41. "The most important thing to Gold Star families is that their loved ones aren't forgotten."

When Manion put the word out to her volunteers that help was needed at Arlington this year, more than 300 responded, she said.

"The idea is to start here, then maybe we can also do this at other cemeteries for people who can't visit in person," she added. "Emily has started something that could really be long-lasting and grow much bigger around the country."

For Sarah Geisen, one of the volunteers who signed up, visiting the graves of strangers is the "least she could do," she said, since so many people have been affected by COVID and can't travel.

Geisen's brother, Army Special Forces Capt. Drew Patrick Ross, was killed in Afghanistan in 2018 by an improvised explosive device. He is buried in Arlington, and she couldn't imagine not being able to visit his final resting place, she said.

"I wish I had known what Emily was doing last year, and I would have joined forces with her," said Geisen, 35.

She said COVID has affected many Gold Star Families who have had to delay funerals or been unable to travel to Arlington.

"It's been a gut-wrenching experience for a grieving community," she said.

Domenech said that as she wandered around the cemetery last year, she came upon the grave of a Marine who shared her July 26 birthday.

"I said his name aloud and stood there for a little while to wonder about his life and the people who will celebrate his birthday without him every year," she said. "He deserved to be remembered."
One Killed, Another Injured in Paducah Collision

By West Kentucky Star Staff

PADUCAH - An Alabama man was killed and another man was injured in a three-vehicle collision Wednesday morning on I-24 in Paducah.Paducah Police said an Alabama man was near the 3.3-mile marker when he lost control of the vehicle.A tractor-trailer driven by Herman Woodley of Illinois hit the man's vehicle on the passenger side and pushed it into the rear of a tractor-trailer driven by Kote Chkheidze of New York.Woodley told officers he topped a hill and saw the vehicles but could not stop in time.The Alabama man was pronounced dead a short time later at Mercy Health Lourdes. Woodley was treated for a minor injury.The westbound lanes of I-24 were closed for more than three hours to clear the vehicles, and for investigation by the Paducah Police Department's collision reconstruction team.
Edward McDaniel Jr., 55, an Army doctor, and Brenda McDaniel, 63, a retired Army colonel and nurse, were shot and killed Wednesday in the front yard of their home in Springfield, Va., according to police. (Facebook)

Two men have been charged in connection with the shooting and killing of a husband and wife  both of whom had obtained the rank of colonel in the Army  in the front yard of their home in Springfield, Fairfax County police said Thursday.

DAngelo Strand, 19, and Ronnie Keandre Marshall, 20, were taken into custody on two counts each of second-degree murder and firearms violations Thursday, following a manhunt that stretched across Fairfax County and the District of Columbia area.

Police identified the victims of Wednesday mornings shooting as Edward McDaniel Jr., 55, an Army doctor, and Brenda McDaniel, 63, a retired Army colonel and nurse. Their son and another person were at the home when the shooting occurred, police said.

Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis said at a news conference Thursday evening that the motive for the slayings was a dispute, but its exact nature was under investigation. He said the two men charged worked with a relative of the victims but declined to say where.

Weve lost two brave, dedicated, lifelong servants to our community . . . and for what? Davis said. Thats whats got us shaking our heads.

Fairfax County police put out a plea for the publics help late Wednesday in locating a light-colored Nissan that was seen leaving the scene of the shooting in the Newington Forest neighborhood.

Police said that car was spotted shortly after 7:20 a.m. Thursday at a business in Lorton. Officers arrived and the operator of the vehicle, Strand, of Fort Washington, was taken into custody, police said. The car was seized and is being searched for evidence.

Shortly after 2 p.m., Fairfax County police officers and U.S. marshals spotted Marshall near the intersection of Janna Lee Avenue and Richmond Highway in Fairfax County and took him into custody, police said.

Both suspects are being held at the Fairfax County jail. Neither man was listed in court records yet, so it could not be determined whether they had attorneys. The gun used in the slayings has not been located, police said.

The shooting occurred in the 8000 block of Flint Street around 9:20 a.m. Wednesday, police said. Davis said Wednesday that the McDaniels were gunned down at point-blank range and called the killing in cold blood.

Davis said Thursday the action that led to the killings began Monday when one of the suspects arrested in the shooting came to the McDaniels house. There was a dispute and police were called for an attempted burglary. That incident was under investigation when the slayings occurred.

Edward McDaniel was a doctor of internal medicine at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, where he was also the director of executive medicine, Army officials said. He had served in the Army since 1995.

Felice McDaniel, his mother, said he had served two stints overseas in Iraq and was scheduled to retire from the Army in November, although he planned to continue working as a doctor.

She said her son was inspired to go into medicine after a high school friend suffered from mental illness. She said Edward grew up in Los Angeles and recounted how as a child he would ask her what she wanted when he got his allowance.

They loved their country. They loved their service. They loved the people who were their patients, Felice McDaniel said.

Lennie Enzel, a retired colonel with the Army Nurse Corps and Brenda McDaniels superior when she was assigned to William Beaumont Army Medical Center in El Paso, wrote in a Facebook message to The Post that Brenda was an accomplished medical professional, who was selected to the prestigious post of White House nurse during the Clinton administration.

She was one of the brightest, kindest, most professional Army Nurses with whom I ever had the honor to serve as evidenced by her tour as a White House Nurse, Enzel wrote.

Army officials said Brenda McDaniel served in the Army from 1983 to 2009 and retired as a colonel.

Army officials said her military awards included the Legion of Merit, which recognizes exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements. Her awards also indicated at least two deployments overseas.

The Washington Posts Dan Lamothe and Julie Tate contributed to this report.
Lawyers for the Oath Keepers urged a federal judge Wednesday to toss out a lawsuit accusing the group, former president Donald Trump, lawyer Rudy Giuliani and another far-right organization of inciting the Jan. 6 storming of the Capitol, calling its actions a form of peaceful political protest protected by the First Amendment.

Attorneys for Trump and Giuliani also filed motions asking the case to be dismissed, with the former president repeating the argument that he is immune from civil lawsuits over actions he took while in office.

The Oath Keepers said it was "conclusory and speculative" to assert that its members planned anything other than to attend a speech of the president at the Ellipse near the White House that day, march to the Capitol and make known to Congress their views opposing the presidential election certification.

The group added that 11 House lawmakers led by Homeland Security Committee Chairman Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., had no right to file suit in their personal capacities or as individuals under the Ku Klux Klan Act  an 1871 law enacted after the Civil War to bar violent interference in Congress's constitutional duties  as opposed to a case brought by the whole House.

If "the right of the people to exercise their right to peaceably assemble for the purpose of petitioning Congress for redress of grievances should be subject to a conspiracy law," there will be "nothing left" of the constitutional right to petition at all, Oath Keepers attorney Kerry Lee Morgan of Michigan wrote in a 44-page filing.

Thompson and other lawmakers, represented by the NAACP, alleged in federal court in Washington that Trump's and Giuliani's false claims that the election was stolen fomented a raid including members of the far-right Oath Keepers and Proud Boys that violated lawmakers' civil rights.

Rioters sought to harass and impede lawmakers from carrying out their official duties, and more than 200 representatives, staffers and relatives were forced to don masks, evacuate, shelter in place or take other emergency actions, the suit asserted.

Trump's "gleeful support of violent white supremacists" endangered lawmakers and encouraged future authoritarianism, Thompson said in announcing the suit, which was filed in February.

"We must hold [Trump] accountable for the insurrection that he so blatantly planned," Thompson said at the time.

The Oath Keepers, a loose network of groups including some self-proclaimed citizen militias, have provided security to conservative politicians and causes, with some members believing the federal government is conspiring to strip Americans of their rights.

U.S. prosecutors have criminally charged at least 15 alleged Oath Keepers or associates in the Capitol riots, including some accused of conspiring to obstruct Congress's confirmation of the presidential election results. Charging papers accuse certain Oath Keepers of coordinating communications and moving in unison during the riots to force entry. Prosecutors have also alleged that several were in direct contact before, during and immediately after the breach with Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes, identified in court documents as "Person One" by the government.

In its bid to dismiss the civil case, the Oath Keepers asserted that individual members of Congress lack standing to sue to "assert the institutional interest which the Constitution grants exclusively to the House of Representatives."

Morgan, a Libertarian Party nominee who finished sixth out of seven candidates running for two Michigan state Supreme Court seats in November, with 4.6% of the vote, argued that "Absent violence, the First Amendment erects a strong barrier against use of [the Klan Act] to trample down First Amendment rights."

"In analyzing Plaintiffs' instant complaint, the inescapable conclusion is that it stigmatizes with inflammatory language the right of the people present in the District and at the Capitol to assemble for the purpose of petitioning the government of the United States in connection with the Electoral College."

In seeking to toss the Thompson lawsuit, lawyers for Trump echoed arguments from their request to dismiss another lawsuit with similar allegations filed against him by Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif.

The former president has absolute immunity from lawsuits over his official actions while in office, and he was free to urge Congress to take actions favorable to him in its electoral count, his lawyers argued.

"Plaintiffs are all members of Congress; each has engaged in controversial speech. Yet they have chosen to foreswear their oaths to support and defend the Constitution by attempting to undermine the First Amendment by bringing this lawsuit, based on their longstanding and public grudges against President Trump," Trump's lawyers wrote. The filings called the Thompson lawsuit a rehash of "the same baseless and misleading allegations" raised in Trump's second impeachment trial in February.

Swalwell accused Trump, Donald Trump Jr., Giuliani and Rep. Mo Brooks (R-Ala.) of violating federal civil rights and local incitement laws.

Swalwell alleged the mob attack was "a direct and foreseeable consequence" of the "express calls for violence" and false and incendiary allegations of election fraud by the four, who spoke at the Jan. 6 Ellipse rally before members of audience marched to the Capitol.

A spokesman for Trump has said the president did not plan or organize the Jan. 6 rally on the Ellipse or incite or conspire to incite any violence at the Capitol that day.

In moving separately to dismiss the Swalwell suit, lawyers for Giuliani argued that "no reasonable reader or listener would have perceived Giuliani's speech as an instruction to march to the Capitol, violently breach the perimeter and enter the Capitol building, and then violently terrorize Congress into not engaging in the Electoral Certification." Giuliani's motion also said his reference to "trial by combat" was clearly hyperbolic, not literal nor meant as an immediate call.

Giuliani's lawyers argued similarly against the Thompson suit, noting that the president's lawyer immediately condemned the riots as "shameful." Giuliani's defense said it was "too far-fetched and outlandish" to have the court believe the plaintiffs would successfully do what the FBI hasn't to date, which is to "tie Giuliani and Trump to a vast conspiracy to mastermind the attack on the Capitol."

House members who joined Thompson's lawsuit are Reps. Karen Bass, D-Calif.; Steve Cohen, D-Tenn.; Bonnie Watson Coleman, D-N.J.; Veronica Escobar, D-Texas; Hank Johnson Jr., D-Ga.; Marcy Kaptur, D-Ohio; Barbara Lee, D-Calif.; Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y.; Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash.; and Maxine Waters, D-Calif.

Law enforcement officers and supporters of President Donald Trump stand outside the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, when a violent mob stormed the building. (Katherine Frey/The Washington Post)
Buy Photo An American servicemember in the Saudi Arabian desert in 1991 tends a burning trash pit. (Vince Crawley/Stars and Stripes)

WASHINGTON  The Department of Veterans Affairs will initiate the federal rulemaking process to consider creating a fast track to health care and disability compensation for some veterans suffering from respiratory illnesses.

The effort could result in health care and benefits for veterans who were exposed to burn pits or other toxins while deployed to overseas conflicts in Southwest Asia, Afghanistan and Uzebekistan.

In an announcement Thursday, the VA listed asthma, sinusitis and rhinitis as conditions that could be added to the VAs presumptive list, which lowers the amount of evidence that veterans must provide in order to receive benefits. VA Secretary Denis McDonough said it was possible that more conditions would be considered during the rulemaking process.

This is just the beginning of our effort to help veterans suffering from toxic exposure, not the end of that effort, McDonough said during a news conference Thursday. This is an urgent, ongoing process and we will stop at nothing to make sure the veterans have the care and benefits they earned and which they deserve.

Throughout the 1990s and the post-9/11 wars, the military used open-air pits to burn garbage, jet fuel, paint, medical waste, plastics and more. Veterans diagnosed with cancer, respiratory issues and lung disease at young ages have blamed exposure to the toxic fumes. They have sought VA benefits and health care, but the department has contended that there isnt sufficient evidence to support their claims.

Once confirmed as VA secretary, McDonough started a review of scientific evidence regarding toxic exposure. The department chose to move forward with a rulemaking process to make decisions transparently and with input from veterans, he said.

The rulemaking process, which can be lengthy, includes a public comment period and multiple reviews by the White Houses Office of Management and Budget. The VA will provide public updates about the process every three months, McDonough said.

Earlier this week, House and Senate lawmakers introduced two sweeping bills aimed at helping veterans who suffer from illnesses because of toxic exposure. The bills would grant VA health care and benefits to millions of veterans who served in overseas conflicts in the past 31 years.

The bills  which are similar but not identical  would automatically grant health care to about 3.5 million Iraq and Afghanistan veterans and reform the VAs handling of toxic exposure claims. The House bill adds 23 respiratory illnesses and cancers to the VAs presumptive list, while the Senate bill adds 11.

The Senate Veterans Affairs Committee advanced its bill Wednesday to the Senate floor. Leaders of the bills are expecting pushback from other lawmakers because of the cost. Cost estimates for the bills were unknown Thursday but are likely significant.

McDonough refused Thursday to take a position on either bill.

Were down here, really vigorously working to try to get in a position to get assistance to, and care for, our veterans who have been exposed, and I think the quickest way to get that care and those benefits is through the process Ive talked about, McDonough said, referring to the rulemaking process. We are attacking this issue with urgency.

Wentling.nikki@stripes.com

Twitter: @nikkiwentling
BUFFALO, N.Y. (Tribune News Service)  Supporters of a project to install a monument honoring African American military veterans have received good news with the approach of Memorial Day.

The final piece of funding is in place to begin construction.

The memorial, to be located at the Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park on Buffalo's waterfront, will be the first in the U.S. to honor Black military veterans who fought in every American war to date, organizers say.

"Through the Revolutionary War all the way up to the war on terrorism," said Warren K. Galloway, chairman of the committee spearheading the monument. "It's the first monument in the country that directly honors African Americans in all the wars that this country's been in, all in one place."

The Buffalo Common Council agreed Tuesday to accept $200,000 in funding from New York State.

"This grant is the last piece of the puzzle that we need to get the full funding so that we can advance that very important project, and we're looking forward to advancing that work," said Michael J. Finn, commissioner of the city's Department of Public Works, Parks and Streets.

Committee members will meet Tuesday with representatives from the department to go over scheduling, bid release and the construction timeline, Galloway said.

"By next week we should have a schedule now that the money's all in place," he said.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony and construction were scheduled for last year, but the COVID-19 pandemic delayed it.

The monument's design is a matrix that serves as a timeline and map of longitudinal coordinates, according to the committee's website. Each of the 12 black concrete pillars will be 10-feet tall and 3-feet wide and placed in chronological sequence to correspond to the dates of each of the country's 12 military conflicts.

The matrix's longitudinal coordinates represent the location where the war began. The spacing between the pillars represents peace time between each war.

The tops of the pillars will illuminate, representing candles that families would put in their windows as a beacon to guide a soldier home. The light emanating from the top of each pillar will glow continuously as an eternal reminder of the commitments made by African American veterans.

The design was created by Jonathan Casey and the team at Solid 716.

There also will be audio capabilities within the monument that will work through a smartphone app to allow visitors to hear  as well as read  information, Galloway said.

Funding for the $1.5 million project includes $800,000 in state grants; $100,000 from Erie County; about $100,000 through the city's capital projects account; about $200,000 from the Buffalo and Erie County Greenway Fund; $50,000 from Catholic Health; and $50,000 from HSBC Bank USA.

Additional money was raised by selling commemorative bricks that will be laid on the ground surface of the monument.

(c)2021 The Buffalo News (Buffalo, N.Y.)

Visit The Buffalo News (Buffalo, N.Y.) at www.buffalonews.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Mathew Z. Rosiere, 37, of Fond du Lac, unexpectedly passed away on Friday, June 4, 2021. He was born on May 18, 1984, in Pawnee, OK, the son of Michael Z. Rosiere and Sandra K. Kennedy. While he was in high school, he was active in football and wrestling. Mathew loved hard rock music, played
Todd Talks

with Todd Muller

National MP

Budget Day has been and gone and left much of my electorate shaking their head at the money scramble. Few will begrudge support for those who need it most but there is absolutely no plan to recover our economy  in fact Finance Minister Grant Robertson proudly outlined his expectation that by 2025 we will be almost $200 billion in debt, more than three times as much as last March.

The Bay of Plenty electorate is home to 24,330 constituents aged over 50  that is more than half of the electorate. Yet this years Budget provided no meaningful assistance to those people who quietly get through life with determination tradies, self-employed, local workers, the elderly, the disabled, the working poor who chose not to have children due to lack of a permanent home.

And the public sector workers who kept our community operating safely and efficiently during last years lock downs? Theyve had their pay frozen. These members of our region have been forgotten by a government who has chosen to borrow more money to build more government rather than support more businesses.

This is ridiculous at a time when orchardists and pack houses are crying out for workers. There was once a time when MSD required jobseekers to pick and pack fruit in season rather than collect the dole. This government has decreed that no sanctions will be applicable to those who choose not to work.

Instead of helping business owners to sell more produce, to earn export dollars, theyve announced a reduction in international work visas while making it even less attractive for local unemployed people to take up these jobs.

Business owners are the employers we need to be supporting. They have suffered so many hits in the last year, from lock down restrictions to minimum wage increases, doubling of paid sick leave, and another paid day off next year. This months Budget was yet another blow to the employers of our region. The cost of produce will simply have to increase to keep up with higher costs and this will likely wipe out the $20 per week that the poorest members of our community will gain in July.
Pams brand cassava vege crisps are being recalled due to an undeclared allergen.

The original 150g bags are being pulled from shelves due to the presence of an undeclared allergen (milk), says a statement on the Ministry of Primary Industries website.

The affected product has a best before date of October 19, 2021.

MPI says the product is sold at PaknSave, New World, and Four Square stores throughout New Zealand.

The recall does not affect any other Pams brand products.

No other flavours or batches of the product are affected.

Customers are asked to check the best before date on the back of the product.

People with a milk allergy or intolerance should not consume this product, says an MPI statement.

If you have consumed any of this product and have any concerns about your health, seek medical advice.

If you are not allergic or intolerant to milk, this recall does not affect you.

Customers with a milk allergy or intolerance should return the product to their retailer for a full refund.

Who to contact

If you have questions, contact Foodstuffs Own Brands Ltd.

Phone: 0800 24 51 14

Address: 35 Landing Drive, Mangere, Auckland.
Bay of Plenty

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New Zealand's pause on the quarantine-free travel bubble with Victoria has been extended for a further seven days, with the Australian state going into lockdown to contain a growing Covid-19 outbreak in Melbourne

The extension of the pause on travel will take it through to next Friday.

Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins and Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield provided an update on the travel bubble situation.

This afternoon, Victorian government announced the state would go into lockdown for a week to contain a growing Covid-19 outbreak in Melbourne.

Hipkins says the current situation is the biggest challenge to the trans-Tasman bubble so far.

He says anybody who has been in a location of interest in Melbourne cannot travel to New Zealand for at least 14 days since visiting the location.

"We are considering whether further restrictions should be put in place. We will make decision on that in the next 24 hours or so.

Dr Bloomfield has implemented new rules under the Health Act regarding anyone who was in Melbourne from 20-25 May.

"Anyone who has travelled to New Zealand is required to isolate, be tested, and keep isolating until they receive a test result.

"We are applying a precautionary approach."

Hipkins says authorities will be attempting to contact people who have travelled to New Zealand from Melbourne since May 20.

"There is a lot of them so they shouldn't all expect to be contacted immediately, he says.

"We are expecting around 5000.

Contact tracing centres will be used to follow up with those 5000 people, likely starting tonight, Dr Bloomfield says.

Dr Bloomfield says they thought the risk was still quite low but the number of locations of interest that were high risk had risen a lot.

"We think it's prudent to ask anyone who has been in Melbourne to isolate and be tested."

The Australian Prime Minister's visit to New Zealand should still be able to go ahead, Hipkins says.

Hipkins is satisfied there was testing capacity for those people across the country.

New Zealand's government put the quarantine-free travel for people arriving from the state on pause earlier this week as cases began to be detected in the community.

Hipkins says the pause on travel would be kept under review.

"If the pause for any reason were to continue, then we would look to other options, whether or not we would provide emergency travel for those who needed to get back immediately".

The government has set aside some rooms in MIQ as a trans-Tasman contingency for isolating, Hipkins says.

People had been told if they travelled they may have to shelter in place, he says.

"Covid-19 does continue to dominate around the globe... we do have to expect things to continue to be disrupted from time-to-time."

The number of active community cases in Melbourne continues to rise and was at 34 at 1pm (NZ time), according to Health Victoria.

In its daily Covid-19 update, the Ministry of Health states anyone who has come over from the state and been at a location of interest at the specified time must immediately self-isolate and call Healthline on 0800 358 5453 for advice on when to get tested.

Thousands of people who recently arrived from the area have been sent an email about the situation.

"Anyone in New Zealand who has been in the wider Melbourne area since May 11 who develops symptoms while in New Zealand should also ring Healthline and arrange to get tested.

"The number of locations of interest being announced by Health Victoria is also continuing to rise and there are now 150 exposure sites across Melbourne.

"Given the time frames, it is crucial that everyone who has been in the state of Victoria since May 11 keeps checking Victoria Health's website detailing the locations of interest."

Anyone who has been in the Whittlesea local government area since May 11 should also ring Healthline for advice, the ministry said.

- RNZ
The government has taken the next step to boost regional economic recovery with the establishment of the new fund to replace the Provincial Growth Fund.

Economic and Regional Development Minister Stuart Nash says the new fund is a vital part of post-Covid recovery efforts.

Today we are launching the $200 million Regional Strategic Partnership Fund, which delivers on a manifesto commitment to keep supporting economic recovery in the regions, says Nash.

Over this Parliamentary term the RSPF has three goals. It will work in local partnerships to enable economic and business development, accelerate Maori economic aspirations, and support sector transformation. Each region will help decide its own priorities.

He states that central government will partner with local government, iwi, businesses, community organisations and other agencies to identify priorities and co-funding opportunities.

Regions will identify priority investments which support the Governments vision of creating more productive, resilient, inclusive, sustainable and Maori-enabling regional economies, says Nash.

Year one funding is set aside in Budget 2021, from reprioritised funding administered by the Provincial Development Unit (PDU). Further reprioritisation will occur by the PDU to reflect the Minister of Finances expectation of value for money and targeted investment where it is most needed.

The aim is for the $200 million fund to be seed funding for regional priorities, with further funding decided on a case by case basis. The investments will be strategically designed to unlock various other sources of capital to get projects underway.

The PGF invested more than $3.11 billion in regional economic development in its three year life. Existing PGF projects will continue to be progressed.

Our regions are a vital part of New Zealands economic strength but have been neglected in the past, stifling economic growth and living standards in regional communities.

We are taking a new approach, focusing on building strong partnerships to help regions realise their economic potential. The PDU will work in consultation with other parts of government and the private sector to ensure a more effective all of government regional economic development strategy.

Creating the Regional Strategic Partnership Fund is a significant move and represents another step toward creating a productive, innovative resilient and sustainable economy.

Investments are creating enhanced regional and community assets, improving the environment, diversifying economic activity, enabling opportunities for wider investment by local government, iwi and businesses, and boosting employment.

The PDU will adopt a new name to reflect its new focus. It will be known as Kanoa, or the Regional Economic Development and Investment Unit. Kanoa has a broad meaning through proverb and whakatauki, with reference to home fires, and to the guardian of the store house who helped others to thrive.

Questions and Answers

1. What is the Regional Strategic Partnership Fund?

The RSPF will focus on strategic investments to boost the economic recovery in our regions, by building on $4 billion-plus in previous investments from funds including:

 Provincial Growth Fund, including Te Ara Mahi

 Maori Trades and Training Fund and He Poutama Rangatahi

 Infrastructure Reference Group

 Strategic Tourism Assets Protection Programme

 Regional Investment Opportunities, part of the New Zealand Upgrade Programme

 Covid-19 Worker Redeployment Initiative

The RSPF supports the Governments objectives outlined in the Speech from the Throne - to accelerate our economic recovery and lay the foundations for a better future.

2. How will the RSPF align with existing regional development funds?

The RSPF builds on central Governments existing investment in regional economies through the eight funds noted above, which now exceeds over $4 billion dollars.

As a guideline, co-contributions on projects expected to be at 50 per cent for commercial investments and 20 per cent on others, which will also add to the scale of investment through the RSPF. Loans and equity will be the primary means of investing in any commercial or quasi-commercial project; grants will be considered for non-commercial entities.

3. Who makes the decisions on proposals?

Regional Economic Development Ministers will make decisions on proposals up to $20 million dollars. They include the Minister for Economic and Regional Development, the Minister of Finance, the Minister for Social Development and Employment, and the Minister for Maori Development. Funding proposals over $20 million dollars will be decided by Cabinet.

4. Are shovel ready and jobs still core criteria?

RSPF investments must meet the following new eligibility criteria;

 Located in regional New Zealand (outside the three main centres of Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch and excludes Auckland region as a whole)

 Aligned with Government and regional economic development priorities

 Aligns with PRISM (Productive, resilient, inclusive, sustainable and Maori enabling)

 Meets co-contribution rates of 50 per cent for commercial investments or 20 per cent for non-commercial investments

 Recipients capability to delivery and implement the project

5. How is this different from the Provincial Growth Fund?

The RSPF will work from foundations built by the PGF but will act more as seed capital to get deals moving. A reduced level of funding calls for more strategic investments and the PDU is well placed to provide strategic oversight of regional priorities. Applications will be received by invitation only.

6. How much will my region get  is there an allocation?

While each region will not receive a distinct allocation, by taking a more strategic approach to the RSPF, the Government is seeking investment proposals which are not only an identified priority for the region, but which also build upon investment already made.

Regional distributions by the PDU to date are itemised in the table below:

Region Approved Funding Contracted Funding Paid Funding Auckland $1,881,655 $1,803,620 $188,364 Waikato $269,872,195 $254,029,784 $76,973,756 Bay of Plenty $581,999,419 $520,493,698 $205,128,667 Tairawhiti - East Coast $326,756,408 $313,354,323 $125,633,092 Hawke's Bay $281,373,499 $230,682,593 $85,580,450 Wairarapa $38,053,199 $36,693,200 $9,111,760 Kapiti $9,148,839 $9,148,839 $5,955,842 Wellington $8,057,479 $6,035,469 $1,729,779 Te Tau Ihu - Top of the South $104,035,043 $87,513,503 $19,659,534 Canterbury $115,622,971 $109,447,800 $25,135,852 West Coast $236,466,860 $211,500,294 $58,958,170 Otago $141,632,322 $119,133,105 $46,726,224 Chatham Islands $8,076,225 $7,009,463 $1,244,679 Christchurch $1,558,331 $1,558,331 $120,731 Southland $171,805,448 $145,061,302 $28,408,602 Tai Tokerau - Northland $824,833,813 $781,919,227 $353,545,735 Taranaki $130,984,553 $108,323,933 $21,093,640 Pan-Region $652,065,316 $571,780,231 $346,750,940 Manawatu-Whanganui -Horowhenua $264,254,273 $249,237,522 $71,870,944 Total $4,168,477,846 $3,764,726,235 $1,483,816,761

Funding values as at 31 March 2021 from PGF, TAM, MTTF, HPR, IRG, STAPP, RIO & CRRF.
Paducah Man Arrested on Drug Trafficking Charge

By West Kentucky Star Staff

PADUCAH - A Paducah man was arrested Tuesday on an active warrant.According to the Paducah Police Department, 36-year-old James D. Bowles of Paducah sold methamphetamine to a drug detective earlier this month. A grand jury recently indicted him on a charge of first-degree trafficking in methamphetamine.Officers arrested Bowles Tuesday in the 2600 block of H.C. Mathis Drive.He was lodged in the McCracken County Jail.
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Lawton, OK (73501)

Today

Lots of sunshine. Hot and humid. High around 95F. Winds ENE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

A few passing clouds, otherwise generally clear. Low 74F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.
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Police: $5000 in Meth Found in Paducah Woman's Car

By West Kentucky Star Staff

The McCracken County Sheriff's Office said deputies stopped a vehicle for a traffic infraction on US Highway 60 West near the intersection of Steele Road. Deputies said the driver, 38-year-old Elizabeth Leach of Paducah, was wanted on an outstanding arrest warrant out of Massac County, IL.

During the stop, K-9 Bobi indicated to the presence of illegal drugs coming from inside the vehicle. During a search of the vehicle, deputies said they found approximately 50 grams of crystal methamphetamine, a smoking pipe and a digital scale.

According to police, the seized methamphetamine has an estimated street value of $5,000.

Leach was arrested and lodged in the McCracken County Regional Jail on charges of trafficking in methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and failure to or improper signal. She was also arrested on the Massac County warrant.

MCCRACKEN COUNTY - A Paducah woman was arrested Tuesday night after police said they found thousands of dollars worth of methamphetamine in her vehicle.
Lawton, OK (73501)

Today

Mostly sunny. Hot and humid. High 96F. Winds ENE at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Mainly clear. Low 74F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.
Grindrod Shipping announces completion of tanker sales and related debt repayments

Grindrod Shipping Holdings Ltd. (Grindrod Shipping or "Company" or it or we), a global provider of maritime transportation services predominantly in the drybulk sector, announced the completion of the following transactions and related debt repayments.

On April 12, 2021 and April 20, 2021, the Company completed the previously disclosed sales of the 2013-built medium range tankers Leopard Moon and Leopard Sun. In conjunction with the sales, approximately $24.7 million debt remaining on the credit facility with NIBC Bank N.V. was repaid in full. The sales generated net proceeds to the Company of $17.9 million after debt repayment with a further $2.7 million release of restricted cash associated with the loan. On April 14, 2021, the Company completed the previously disclosed sale of the 2009-built small tanker Breede, which constituted part of the security package for our $100.0 million senior secured credit facility and was released from the security package in connection with the closing of the transaction. Approximately $3.8 million debt was repaid on the facility and the sale generated net proceeds to the Company of $3.0 million after debt repayment with a further $0.5 million release of restricted cash associated with the loan. The Company utilized the net proceeds of the aforementioned sales, together with cash on hand, to repay the approximately $25.8 million remaining outstanding amount on the senior secured credit facility with Sankaty maturing in June 2021. The senior secured credit facility was formally terminated on May 21, 2021 upon confirmation of prepayment of all obligations thereunder. Martyn Wade, the Companys Chief Executive Officer, commented: We are very pleased to complete the sales of our last three spot trading product tankers and the full repayment of our credit facility with Sankaty. These sales have significantly reduced our leverage while positioning the Company to further focus on our core handysize and supramax/ultramax drybulk segments. Since the end of 2020, we have reduced our bank loans and other borrowings by approximately $66 million, or ~24%, while concurrently strengthening our liquidity, through a combination of tanker asset sales, scheduled debt amortization, and strong freight market conditions in our drybulk business.




Switzerland and Nigeria sign an agreement for the release of San Padre Pio

The FDFA and the Federal Ministry of Justice of Nigeria have signed an agreement under which Nigeria will immediately release the ship San Padre Pio.

The vessel, which flies the Swiss flag, was detained in January 2018 in Nigeria's exclusive economic zone. Following extensive diplomatic efforts by the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research and the Federal Department of Finance, a memorandum of understanding providing for the immediate release of the vessel was signed on 20 May 2021. It is now incumbent on Nigeria to release the vessel and on the companies involved in operating the San Padre Pio to take the necessary operational measures for the actual departure of the vessel. The agreement was signed by Nigeria's minister of justice and the Swiss ambassador in Nigeria. The agreement is the result of numerous interventions of Switzerland vis-a-vis Nigeria with a view to the release of the vessel. Once the vessel has been able to leave Nigeria's exclusive economic zone, the legal proceeding pending before the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) in Hamburg can be terminated. The San Padre Pio was detained in Nigeria's exclusive economic zone in January 2018. Switzerland had initiated legal proceedings before the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea.




Thun Tankers delivery of Thun Equality

Thun Tankers are proud to inform that we have taken delivery of Thun Equality.

The vessel is the third E-Class tanker in a series of four ordered, gas powered, high quality vessels built by Scheepswerf Ferus Smit B.V in the Netherlands. Upon delivery, the Thun Equality will be trading within the Gothia Tanker Alliance network. Thun Tankers is part of the Erik Thun Group, a company owned by the Kallsson family since 1938. For decades we have designed increasingly economic and energy efficient quality ships, using in-house knowledge to provide our customers with sustainable and cost efficient transport solutions. The E-class vessels are a further evolvement of Erik Thuns existing fleet and focus on efficiency, environmental care and customers needs has been essential when developing the new vessels. The vessels are built to the absolute latest design meeting and often exceeding existing and forthcoming regulations. The new vessels reduced fuel consumption with an increased cargo intake, less exhaust emissions and lowered noise levels are a few examples of that.  Equality describes how we want to approach people and the societies where we operate. With todays delivery, we in Thun Tankers would like to wish the vessel and her crew fair winds with safe and sustainable sailings. - Joakim Lund, CCO at Thun Tankers BV.  Equality is a big part of our sustainability work, and it has been and will be a focus ahead. Todays delivery of the Thun Equality is a great example of our vision to be a sustainable Swedish partner over generations. - Johan Kallsson, Managing Director at Erik Thun AB.




Two Charged With Drug Trafficking in Kevil

By West Kentucky Star Staff

MCCRACKEN COUNTY - An investigation into drug trafficking Tuesday led to the arrest of two men on numerous charges.Over the course of the investigation, McCracken County detectives reportedly learned that drug trafficking was taking place at a home on Bob Harris Road in Kevil.Detectives searched the home Tuesday afternoon and allegedly uncovered crystal methamphetamine, seven grams of cocaine, and drug paraphernalia.The search led to the arrest of 40-year-old Justin Flannagan of McCracken County and 44-year-old John Sullivan of Metropolis.Both men were charged with trafficking in meth, trafficking in cocaine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.They were lodged in the McCracken County Jail.
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Seminole, FL (33772)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 87F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 78F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph.
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ashvek3141 BHPian



Join Date: Nov 2019 Location: Goa Posts: 347 Thanked: 882 Times

Sidewall crack on Yokohama Earth-1 within 1 year; company says no warranty. EDIT: Solved (page 2)



I need a help with an issue that I am facing with regards to the Yoko Earth-1 tyre which faced a sidewall crack.



This happened in the evening while returning from my work. On a well tarred highway I was doing about 60-70 kmph-ish, thats when suddenly the car started pulling towards left. I immediately pulled it to the side of the road and noticed that there was a flat.

I got the tyre changed first & on observing closely I found that the sidewall has cracked!!



I drove back home & following day immediately called up my dealer, to which he replied that the Yoko Earth-1 tyres have unconditional warranty & that itll be replaced under the same. He also mentioned that I may have to pay some nominal amount on pro-rata basis as I had used them for close to 9000 kms. He asked me to send him the pics over WhatsApp, to which I obliged.



This happened on the 4th May 2021; unfortunately, 2 days later my city went into a lockdown of 3 weeks. Only essentials were allowed to function for half day.



Today when I called him up, he mentioned to me that the complaint has already been raised & he shared the number of the Yoko representative for Goa, just to follow up from my side too so that the claim is processes faster.



But to my surprise, when I called up the rep, he blatantly denied the claim saying that sidewall cuts are not covered under the warranty.

I told him that this is not what the dealer has told me & that this tyre definitely has an unconditional warranty. But he didnt budge.



I called back the dealer, and he too is denying the claim now saying that there was some misunderstanding & that they have commenced the unconditional warranty only 2 months after I purchased the tyre.



I purchased the tyre on 7th July 2020 & its not even a year! Moreover the MY of the tyre is 2519. I had initially refused to accept this lot pf tyre saying that they were already a year old. However, he assured me that there is no issue with a year old tyre & that they work perfectly fine.



I dont understand how to go ahead with this now? Has anyone faced a similar issue with regards to sidewall cracking of Yoko tyres?



Infact, I went in for the Earth-1 on the dealers advise & also on the positive revkews on this page, that they are solid tyre especially designed for India with stronger sidewalls.



My car is rendered useless for over three weeks now as the tyre spec is a mismatch. Three tyres are 17 whereas the stepny is a 16 inchers.



Could youll please share your thoughts on this as to how should I take this forward now? Hello guys,I need a help with an issue that I am facing with regards to the Yoko Earth-1 tyre which faced a sidewall crack.This happened in the evening while returning from my work. On a well tarred highway I was doing about 60-70 kmph-ish, thats when suddenly the car started pulling towards left. I immediately pulled it to the side of the road and noticed that there was a flat.I got the tyre changed first & on observing closely I found that the sidewall has cracked!!I drove back home & following day immediately called up my dealer, to which he replied that the Yoko Earth-1 tyres have unconditional warranty & that itll be replaced under the same. He also mentioned that I may have to pay some nominal amount on pro-rata basis as I had used them for close to 9000 kms. He asked me to send him the pics over WhatsApp, to which I obliged.This happened on the 4th May 2021; unfortunately, 2 days later my city went into a lockdown of 3 weeks. Only essentials were allowed to function for half day.Today when I called him up, he mentioned to me that the complaint has already been raised & he shared the number of the Yoko representative for Goa, just to follow up from my side too so that the claim is processes faster.But to my surprise, when I called up the rep, he blatantly denied the claim saying that sidewall cuts are not covered under the warranty.I told him that this is not what the dealer has told me & that this tyre definitely has an unconditional warranty. But he didnt budge.I called back the dealer, and he too is denying the claim now saying that there was some misunderstanding & that they have commenced the unconditional warranty only 2 months after I purchased the tyre.I purchased the tyre on 7th July 2020 & its not even a year! Moreover the MY of the tyre is 2519. I had initially refused to accept this lot pf tyre saying that they were already a year old. However, he assured me that there is no issue with a year old tyre & that they work perfectly fine.I dont understand how to go ahead with this now? Has anyone faced a similar issue with regards to sidewall cracking of Yoko tyres?Infact, I went in for the Earth-1 on the dealers advise & also on the positive revkews on this page, that they are solid tyre especially designed for India with stronger sidewalls.My car is rendered useless for over three weeks now as the tyre spec is a mismatch. Three tyres are 17 whereas the stepny is a 16 inchers.Could youll please share your thoughts on this as to how should I take this forward now?


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A surge in online shopping sprung up over the past year due to the pandemic. The rapid adoption pushed the expected timeline for consumers to expand their online shopping forays. It also opened the door to a drone delivery industry to feed a growing demand for increased online deliveries.

Companies scrambling to compete with the advancing delivery capabilities offered by Amazon and UPS are looking to drone delivery options. Will this be the future of delivery?

Aviation is an extremely regulated environment -- drones, or unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) included. So what does this mean in terms of safety within the airspace? Will the FAA create special allowances for drones that permit them fly with autonomy to deliver packages faster than ground delivery?

Perhaps, in the long run. But do not expect to see your online purchases dropping from the sky anytime soon, cautions aviation safety expert Mark Baier, CEO of AviationManuals and ARC Safety Management Software Systems. It will not be easy.

TechNewsWorld sought Baier's insights on the implications of the future of drone delivery in terms of aviation safety. Obviously, if federal regulations offer greater latitude to drone deliveries, that accommodation could be a boon to e-commerce.

Hopeful Buzz in the Air

The two concepts -- drone safety and the impact of drones on e-commerce -- are related, Baier noted. Both topics have created a lot of buzz around the potential of drone delivery probably for the last five or six years.

All of that buzz has not converted to reality yet. Some of the safety issues have not really been addressed or resolved.

"That's a big step. First of all, I want to say drone delivery, in my opinion, is a virtual certainty. It is just a matter of time and on what scale and how the rollout will look," he told TechNewsWorld.

Most people envision drone delivery is going to be like the sci-fi that we all have in mind of drones landing in our front yards filled with our packages. More so, people in the industry tend to see it as a far more gradual phase-in process.

Perhaps it will be a blended approach for some time before we get really dedicated drone services for a wider variety of things. Baier thinks the one hurdle that was kind of moved out of the way recently was a decision by the FAA about where to stick commercial drone operations.

More Regulated Than Not

The FAA for a long while was split between drone operations being allowed under general aviation rules or abiding as part of aviation's Part 135 rather than Part 121 regulations. The difference is significant.

Part 121 deals with commercial air service for scheduled flights with paying passengers or customers. Part 135 regulates on-demand flights and scheduled charter flights. Scheduled charter flights are usually limited to a few days a week.

"So that does mean that delivery drones are going to be more regulated perhaps than some of the drone industry accounted for. But at least now they have a roadmap on which to follow, explained Baier.

The FAA had to include some exemptions because those regulations are designed toward passenger travel and passenger carriage. Of course, you can follow the standardizations and the safety management system pipe fit standards and protocols for commercial operators. But exemptions had to take into account existing rules related to just passengers travel and passenger with airports.

We are seeing 100 years' worth of manned flight regulations and learning. Baier thinks we are going to see over the next couple of years the FAA trying to find some middle ground, so that drone rules are not just layering an existing though slightly more onerous regulatory process on top of something that is probably different in its own category.

Getting Deeper Into Drone Delivery Potential

TechNewsWorld engaged Baier in an extensive conversation about how -- and if -- drone regulations and consumer lust for speedy airdrop service will ever safely coexist.

TechNewsWorld: How competitive is the drone certification process under the Part 135 regulations?

Mark Baier: Five operators that have applied for this Part 135 certificate thus far have received permission to operate drone deliveries. But it is really still very, very specific, very limited with one drone operator involved. One certification is only for medical deliveries to a particular hospital in North Carolina.

Another applicant is Flirtey, a transport freight service in Nevada. That company has not yet received certification. If approved, much of that drone's travel will be over open spaces and farmland.

A third company is delivering medical supplies pretty effectively to rural and remote areas. A fourth approved drone delivery service is for a company called Google Wings. I'm not exactly sure what they are going to be doing.

[Editor's Note: Wing (pictured above) is a subsidiary of Alphabet, the parent company of Google. Also known as Project Wing; it is currently offering trial delivery to parts of Christiansburg, VA.]

The fourth approved drone delivery service of the five applicants is Amazon Prime, according to Baier.

Are some industries more economically viable to support drone deliveries?

Baier: The medical industry is certain to accelerate looking at drone usage for probably anything from plasma to organs, but even something as benign as insulin delivery to somebody that may not be on a typical delivery route. I think the medical industry is really at the forefront of driving some of this because they are also able to get more exemptions from a regulatory perspective.

One thing people need to understand at this point is that it is not an economically viable way to deliver packages. It probably will not be for some time. The drones are not as reliable as surface vehicles so a lot of them are not outfitted with equipment. Hence, in bad weather, you probably have to revert at this stage to road transportation. So the cost-effectiveness of package delivery is probably in some ways down the road.

The companies that are looking into doing drone deliveries have the financial wherewithal to plow ahead. I also think some industries where cost is not an issue -- where time is more important than cost -- you might see drones start to come into play.

How difficult are drone operations on a reliable basis?

Baier: The commercial drone operations are difficult, even if that costs a lot of money. So I think the general package drone delivery thing is probably still a ways away. But to your point, I believe Covid-19 and other factors are driving it ahead faster now than it probably would have happened pre-Covid.

How much of an impact on drone flying is the weight of packages?

Baier: There is a technology limitation and a cost limitation right now. From what I understand, the FAA is talking about package weight being limited to four pounds. But there is a strange little quirk to that. The drone comes and hovers about 20 feet above your property and actually lowers the package with a tether instead of landing and dropping it.

I think that involves safety, privacy, and security issues they have not yet figured out. Those proximity issues involve avoiding pads, kids, etc., so they prefer to keep the drone hovering and 20 feet. They lower the package and then they fly off so that again restricts the amount of weight that you can carry.

In terms of drone operations, do the pilots fly them from fixed locations, or are GPS systems onboard for automated deliveries?

Baier: Right now, drones are operated by people. The only difference with delivery drones is putting navigational equipment in place so you can operate beyond line of sight. So it is instrument enhanced, but there still are operators behind the flight controls; none of it is fully automated yet.

Some of the drones have geofencing and built-in protection mechanisms that are automated. If you lose contact with the drone, it will geofence itself or hover until you can find it.

Is it accurate to draw a parallel between the logistics involved in drone delivery and self-driving automobiles?

Baier: We definitely are looking at two different things. Ground vehicles need a lot more sensors because of the obstacles on the ground. But I think it is also this factor of drones being operated according to slightly more traditional aviation regulations at this point. The two systems might one day both be fully automated. That is a very high probability, but that is a way down the road.

What are other potential barriers for drones flying off the ground?

Baier: People forget that this may be regulated down to 4,400 feet by the FAA. Once you get below that level, you may see a layered patchwork of local, state, and county-level regulations that end up being blended with the FAA. So you may see drone deliveries happening quicker in one place than in another just because the local regulations are going to be different.

Much more depth and complications exist for drone considerations than for an aircraft that is flying in the airspace between airports per se. You are also still going to have privacy issues below 400 feet to address with drones. There will be some liability and legal issues in that regard.

How does drone licensing work?

Baier: Drone operators are now expected to operate according to higher standards. The licensing process is actually a certificate for that particular operator. Imagine that UPS is going to have a drone division. That division would be completely separate from its own operating license. The company running the drone would report directly to the FAA or its local Flight Standards District Offices (FSDO) office.

Two licenses would not be needed. UPS would be the parent company. The certification for the drone operation would go to its divisional office.
Apple transformed the 19th-century Palazzo Marignoli in Rome as it opens Apple Via del Corso on May 27. The 17th Apple Store in Italy restored and reinvented the aesthetics of the centuries-old building.

According to Apple's press release, the newest store will be the "most significant restoration project" that the company has done. The iPhone maker had to employ architects and a team of local restorers to achieve both structural integrity, and aesthetic restoration in the palace, Tech Radar reported.

Also, the newest store is bringing Today at Apple Made in Rome. As such, local artists will hold online sessions in the ballroom about music, design, and art. Yes, there is a ballroom in the new store.

Furthermore, the Apple Store in Rome has created 100 new jobs for it alone. In total, according to the Cupertino giant, about 200 employees will be present in the new store.

Apple Via del Corso: Old But Gold

The structure was erected and designed in 1873 by Salvatore Bianchi, a renowned architect.

Architect Giulio Podesti then renovated the facade that still exists today. Apple had to commission Foster + Partners to design an interior that would mirror the architecture of the Palazzo, MacRumors reports.

In the past, Marquis Flippo Marignoli used to live in the said structure. It also has been the location of one of the well-known hangout places in Rome, the Caffe Aragno.

The cafe used to be filled with people who are prominent in the arts and culture.

Apple had kept some art pieces seen in the former communal place. The local restorers helped Apple showcase even paintings dating back to the 1900s. The same has been done in the Champs Elysees store and the Carnegie Library store, which won architectural recognition, as per Apple Insider.

Read Also: Apple Still Follows Mandatory Mask Wearing in its US Stores, Recent Report Says

Other Apple Stores in Historic Location

Aside from the Via del Corso in Rome, according to Tech Radar, Apple has other stores that, likewise, were located in iconic structures.

In particular, the Apple store in New York is located in the Grand Central Terminal. It is reported that the tech giant has spent a whopping $2.5 million just to renovate the said retail place.

Moreover, the Apple flagship store in Milan is found at the Piazza del Liberty.

Related Article: Apple's SignTime, a Sign Language Interpreter, Will Soon Be Available -- More Accessibility Features Coming!

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Written by Teejay Boris

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Tesla is asking for your help for Gigafactory Berlin. It is intended to generate "graffiti" art designs or recommendations to cover an entire side of the German plant. Initially, Elon Musk has said that Giga Berlin's plain, white side of the building, will be intended for graffiti, with people thinking it was only a joke.

However, that is not the case now, and it is more legitimate than ever, especially as the crowdsourcing or ads for the graffiti art design for Giga Berlin was tweeted by the official Tesla account. If Musk were the one to have tweeted it, the statement would initially be taken as a joke or something which is leaning closer to a joke than it is to reality.

If you want to help cover Giga Berlin in awesome graffiti art, send us your work at GigaBerlinArt@Tesla.com  Tesla (@Tesla) May 26, 2021

Why is that? Because Musk is known as the meme king, which has been what he established for himself via social media, so it is hard to discern if the CEO is telling the truth unless there is concrete evidence for it. Focusing more on Tesla's latest innovations, the company and its CEO has revealed "Visiono" with Level 5 autonomy, which is a massive one for its EVs.

Read Also: Is Elon Musk the Doge CEO? Explains Why He Helps Dogecoin and How Limited Their Resources Are

Giga Berlin's Graffiti Art Commission from Twitter

It is unclear whether Tesla wants "graffiti" art or street art because these two are different forms of art, says Columbia. The former focuses on the use of words and images to convey the message and "art" which the artist wants to say, while the latter is mainly focused on images or abstract designs to convey messages or art itself.

According to Tesla's official Twitter account (@Tesla), it would be to help cover up Giga Berlin's plain white side of the building, and by help, it suggests that it would be a free commission. This opportunity would be a chance to showcase one's work on the side of Giga Berlin, especially as it gets approved by Tesla, and might even earn one a chance to go to the Gigafactory.

People Wants Doge to Be on Giga Berlin's Walls

In the following tweets and suggestions of the public, several Tesla fans have been suggesting to put "Doge" or the Shiba Inu dog that is popular in memes on Giga Berlin. While some are pointing out the meme itself, several fans focus on promoting Dogecoin through Tesla's sidewall on its first Europe plant.

We about to have an entire wall of #Dogecoin   Matt Wallace  (@MattWallace888) May 26, 2021

Can we get some Doge art?  pic.twitter.com/5enaIJzv3m   (@itsALLrisky) May 26, 2021

It seems that Tesla and Elon Musk would not push through with the Doge suggestions, which they have been spammed with, but nothing is set to stone, so entries sent through e-mail might have the chance. There are no specific dates as for the design's deadline, and the suggestion box for graffiti art is open for people to send forth their take.

Someone needs to do a graf version of this! pic.twitter.com/qdirPBiGBR  Yalda  (@FrenchKick83) May 26, 2021

Related Article: Tesla Cybertruck Records 1 Million Reservations, But EV Pickup Nowhere Near Completion or Release Date

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Police Seek Suspect in Paducah Walmart Fire

By West Kentucky Star Staff

PADUCAH - Police are requesting the public's help with identifying a woman who may have information about a fire at Paducah's southside Walmart.Paducah police and firefighters responded to a call Saturday afternoon about a fire in the women's restroom. Authorities determined that someone had set fire to paper toilet seat covers.After conducting several interviews, detectives believe the woman in the photo may have information about the fire.Anyone with information about the woman's identity is asked to contact the Paducah Police Department at 270-444-8550.
(Photo : Screenshot From Pxhere Official Website) Apple Job Posting for Business Development Manager for 'Alternative Payments' Could Hint Crypto Involvement

Apple job posting might have just revealed possible Bitcoin involvement for the new Apple iPhone pay. The new position is for an "alternative payments" Business Development Manager, which could apparently mean that Apple is looking to accept cryptocurrency payments.

Apple Job Posting

Although just a speculative conclusion, according to an article by PhoneArena, this is something one might think when looking at the Jobs at Apple website via CNBC. This is where Apple reportedly posted a listing that is looking for a Business Development Manager for Alternative Payments.

The job post reportedly says that the official Apple Wallets, Payments, and Commerce WPC team is currently looking for people to hold up Apple's end when it comes to Alternative Payments Partnership. The new employee is expected to work at Apple's Cupertino headquarters in California.

Hiring Business Development Manager for Alternative Payments

The new employee will reportedly be given the task of negotiating with certain potential partners, signing and even executing certain commercial contracts, and even developing new programs for the company. The person that Apple is currently looking for must reportedly have at least five years of experience when it comes to working for a certain alternative payments provider.

The new employee is also expected to have expertise when it comes to digital wallets, namely the BNPL or buy-now-pay-later, faster payments, and even cryptocurrency. Tim Cook, Apple CEO, has already talked about a future wherein all forms of payments are digitally made, and the iPod touch, the iPhone and the Apple Watch all have digital Wallet apps that automatically come with the devices.

Apple to Accept P2P Payments

Apple also says that with the app, users can keep their credit, debit, and even prepaid cards, boarding passes, store cards, movie tickets, coupons, student ID cards, rewards cards, and others in one place. Through the official Messages app, Apple owners can easily make certain P2P or peer-to-peer payments as well.

Certain analysts have reportedly suggested that Apple had invested some of its cash into cryptocurrency just like Tesla. A few years ago, a certain Apple Pay executive also stated that the company actually saw the "long-term potential" that the cryptocurrency technology has but still did not plan to use it at that particular moment.

Read Also: The Days Of Getting Bitcoins On iPhones Are Over: Apple Bans Cryptocurrency Mining

Does Apple have a Cryptocurrency?

Back in February, the RBC Capital Markets Analyst known as Mich Steves suggested that Apple should create a crypto-exchange and invest in certain alternative currencies. Steves' analysis even noted that if Apple were reportedly to get heavily involved in cryptocurrency technology, this would actually help the United States become the tech leader in this market for as long as about 10 to 20 years.

The analyst even gave a forecast that if Apple were to help develop a certain wallet-based crypto exchange, it would be able to generate up to $40 billion in revenue for Apple. The new job posting might not tackle all of these fields but it is still a possibility.

Related Article: Bitcoin Scam App on Apple App Store, Costs $600,000 to iPhone User: Epic CEO Calls Store 'Full of Scams'

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Facebook is focusing its efforts against Misinformation and Fake News to individual accounts now, after initially enforcing it against groups and pages which violate the Community Guidelines. What the social media company aims for is for the platform to be safe and free, especially amidst these moments where people are exposed to massive amounts of information.

Fake news has been rampant since before the pandemic. Social media companies like Facebook have been making efforts to stop it from spreading and leading people to believe false or unfactual information. However, COVID-19 happened, and it has pushed people to stay at home and rely on the internet and social media for information, which has been long-infested by fake news.

COVID-19 has been met with a lot of misinformation campaigns, alongside conspiracy theories that have initially got out of hand via social media platforms. It includes non-mask use, the origins of COVID-19, its effects and fake medicine to avoid it, and the long-debated vaccination issue which came from anti-vaxxers.

Read Also: Florida Governor De Santis Signs Law Against 'Deplatforming' Politicians-Facebook, Twitter First Gets Affected

Facebook to Limit Individual Posts with Fake News, Misinformation

According to the May 26 blog post by Facebook, it would no longer tolerate fake news and misinformation on the platform and are now "Taking Action" against it via their new campaign. While moderators keep track of the actions of almost everyone on Facebook, this campaign would have a stricter rule or implementation as it would now pool its resources for it.

Apart from the different indicators that a certain post or group is labeled as a source of misinformation, certain pop-ups would also remind users that there are risks to sharing unverified or false content. Before sharing, there would be a pop-up message that says the post or its author is classified as fake news, and a "Rules" tab would also appear.

Choosing to proceed could lead to account suspensions, despite being individuals with no affiliations.

What Punishments Would Facebook Observe?

Apart from account suspensions, Facebook would also enforce limited posting or reactions of a certain individual for light cases, which would still allow the platform's navigation. On a more grievous case, it would be an account suspension for an undetermined number of days, based on the gravity of one's actions.

The worst-case scenario here is that Facebook may de-platform or ban the said account for either a temporary observance or a permanent one, depending on the actions of the individual. Facebook would give a chance to users to either delete the post and avoid any punishments for the benefit of the doubt.

Engadget reports that Facebook is taking on a more "conservative" approach on social media and is also unsure of the number of "strikes" a person could do before they get the worst punishment for their actions. The social media's actions are in observance of its new campaign against misinformation, which the company is no longer tolerating whatsoever.

Related Article: Facebook Removes 14 Million COVID-19 Misinformation Posts Globally in 2020

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
President Joe Biden has asked the United States intelligence agencies and communities to investigate the real source of the COVID-19 virus, aiming to "redouble efforts" and have it delivered in 90 days. Additionally, the President has also asked to stop the probe on Wuhan, China, and its alleged manmade laboratory leak due to "quality of evidence."

After months of concluding that COVID-19 was found on a wet market developed from animals, the world is not yet convinced of this origin theory and has now reopened the case of the virus's true source. The source is still unknown, but most of the medical community are convinced that it would not have been from animals from the wet market.

In recent developments, even Dr. Anthony Fauci of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) is not convinced of the animal to human transmission of the virus, hence the reopening of the case. The likes of Dr. Li-Meng Yan and former President Donald Trump's assumptions raise concern, especially as they were firm believers of COVID-19's lab origins.

Read Also: How Did 'EVE Online' Players Help Scientists in a COVID-19 Research and Analysis?

POTUS Biden Ask US Intelligence to Probe on COVID-19 Origins

Amidst this growing issue and topic of COVID-19 origins, a lot of people have been asking where it came from, and included among those is the President of the United States, Joe Biden. According to CNN, the President is tasking several US intelligence agencies and communities in this investigation to learn its sources once and for all.

It was just yesterday when former POTUS Trump has said "I was right" in his social media blog post regarding his initial assumptions that COVID-19 is a human-made virus from China's bio lab. Initial theories have centered on the virus to be "Wuhan-made" and were a biological weapon by China against the whole world.

However, that theory was never proven and remained massive speculation against the Asian country.

Biden Wants Wuhan Probe to Stop

In addition, President Biden has also issued to stop the investigations which focus on Wuhan, China, and the alleged biological laboratory where COVID-19 originated. This investigation was carried out by the previous administration of Trump to the current leadership of Biden, wherein the current POTUS thinks that it would face a dead end.

The reason for the cease of operations and resources against the Wuhan probe is that the investigation lacks the quality of evidence on it, meaning that it has no concrete findings on its origins there. Despite this rising case in the origins of COVID-19, Dr. Li-Meng Yan remains silent in her studies and findings in the Wuhan lab and is awaited by several believers of its Wuhan origins.

Related Article: US Media Probes COVID-19 'Wuhan' Lab Leak Theory-Dr. Li-Meng Yan May be Right, Trump Says 'I Was Right' in Blog

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : Screenshot From Pexels Official Website) OpenAI $100M Startup Fund Reveals Microsoft as Partner and Investor

OpenAI is now launching a massive $100 million startup fund which is to be called the OpenAI Startup Fund! The company has made the fund for it and its partners to invest in certain early-stage AI companies that are tackling major problems.

OpenAI Startup Fund

According to TechCrunch's May 27 story, OpenAI is launching the OpenAI Startup Fund, which aims to tackle critical problems and productivity of certain companies. The ultimate goal is for AI to be used more openly in other fields where the use of this technology can benefit progress.

Among the major partners and investors of this particular fund is none other than Microsoft. Sam Altman, the founder of Open AI, announced the news at the Microsoft Build conference, according to TechCrunch. In a certain pre-recorded video, Altman explains that this is not really a typical corporate venture fund.

OpenAI $100 Million Budget

The note says the company does not plan to make big early bets on what seems to be a relatively small number of companies, most probably not more than 10. Although it still isn't clear as to exactly how the whopping $100 million should be disbursed or divided or on what particular timeline it will follow.

There was also no confirmation as to whether this will be a longer problem, but it now seems like the fund is limited and not just to the full 2021. According to the May 26 post by SlashDot, Altman noted that they are currently looking for companies that are dedicated to tackling certain serious issues.

What Will the Fund be For?

The companies that Altman is looking for should reportedly tackle serious issues like climate change, healthcare, and education. The companies should also be where AI-powered applications or approaches could potentially benefit all of humanity along with the mission statement by OpenAI.

It was also noted that they would be considering certain productivity improvements as well. This is presumably like the useful GPT-3 powered natural language coding that Microsoft had just shown off on May 25. Companies that are reportedly selected for this funding will be able to gain early access to the brand new OpenAI systems and Azure resources coming from Microsoft.

Read Also: Elon Musk Criticizes Microsoft's Acquisition of OpenAI Behind Much Touted Human-Like Text Generator- 'Executive License' Defeats AI Democracy

Use of AI

This would hopefully allow users to be able to spring some fully formed and even ready to scale from the program itself. OpenAI would not technically elaborate on the whole equity agreement, the expectations for the startups, other partners, or even other details. It's now entirely possible that the massive $100 million figure is currently the only thing that the company has settled on.

With OpenAI trying to push for the positive use of AI in order to make an impact on society along with the help of a $100 million funding, the new movement could inspire other companies to develop better technologies that could make a difference. Although there isn't really a specific description as to what OpenAI is looking for, we now know that it will most likely be in the healthcare, education, or even language field.

Related Article: Elon Musk Thinks Reporting to AI 'Would Be an Improvement' and 'Robot Future' Would Soon Come!

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Written by Urian B.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The Bitdefender Labs team has an important report this week. Earlier this year, the launch of the decryptor for Darkside ransomware has created a gap between the security experts and the people. According to the company, the paradox of communication that is happening to cybersecurity firms continues.

The public release of the ransomware decryptors could vary according to the situation. That's why the cybersecurity software leader will clarify more about this discussion through this report.

Bitdefender Labs Team Introduces What Ransomware Can Do

Bitdefender, the cybersecurity team of one of the biggest anti-virus crew, will give the main points from the perspective of a decryptor and the collaborated work with the law enforcers.

The Romanian cybersecurity technology company said that all over the world, several organizations have no good security experts despite the widespread presence of the decryptors.

The assigned cyber analysts must know the availability of the decryptor and where he/she could find the thing. Somehow, the company's policies regarding cybersecurity could lag from what they really expect for the technical personnel.

Despite being major corporations, some companies could not fully invest in assembling a decent security team. However, even though many employees are present in the company, the force of a single IT intern or worker will not be enough to handle the security issues.

The worst part about ransomware is it does not choose its victims--oftentimes, the smallest companies become the prey for these predators. According to a recent survey cited by Bitdefender Labs, 234 employees would be the average organization size of a company hit by ransomware. This does not cover a large number of dedicated security analysts who will act accordingly toward the problem.

Read Also: Conti Ransomware Attack: FBI Warns About Gang Behind Attacking Irish System; Here's How to Remove This Ransomware

According to Fast Company, criminals are making a huge amount of easy money from planting ransomware to a company's security system. This means that the organizations need a lot of help from the ransomware prevention team amid its continuous growth at the time. Not only the firm's profit is fading away, but also the people could lose their jobs due to these exploitations.

The Main Key Points About Ransomware Decryptors

According to the official website of Bitdefender, it's important to know that many companies do not reveal ransomware attacks. This makes it hard for researchers to address the issue using the decryptors. Unless the issue has been finished, the company still chooses to secretly hold the news about the vulnerabilities in its system.

Moreover, the risks of announcing the ransomware decryptor to the public could yield more benefits. Even though the revelation about the decryptor is already a risk, there are cybersecurity groups there who can contribute and give useful tips to help the other experts.

The Bitdefender Labs Team has already solved millions of ransomware attacks globally. Many organizations have been salvaged from the impending malware which could get the sensitive information used in business. Indeed, disclosing the details to the public could sound like a bold move, but this is much better than hiding them unless the situation gets worse.

Related Article: Ransomware Hackers Halt Operations, Release Decryption Key And Apologize: TeslaCrypt Victims Now Free

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : Screenshot From Commons.Wikipedia.org) Ethereum Price Prediction Today | When Will it Come Back to $3,000?

Ethereum price predictions today can be quite hard to make. For this reason alone, this article will tackle what certain indicators are saying about the price. While $Ethereum had previously reached an all-time high of almost $4,200 USD, the price has been treading the waters and hasn't even hit the $3,000 price point for quite a while.

Cryptocurrency Environmental Concern

While the earlier parts of May had the Ethereum prices go up, nobody could make an Ethereum price prediction that it would go all the way down due to the recent large news about crypto. The thing about indicators is although they do tackle market movement, they do not cover what is happening outside the market.

Outside of the market refers to certain happenings like Elon Musk's announcement that Tesla would be backing down from accepting Bitcoin payments. The Tesla CEO later clarified that the company has not sold any of its $BTC holdings and just opted not to accept payments due to "environmental issues," according to CNBC.

Cryptocurrency News

Elon Musk then announced that he would be meeting with Bitcoin miners to look for sustainable energy-clean ways to mine Bitcoin, which seemed to have a positive effect on cryptocurrency. One of the largest things affecting the prices as of the moment is the China crackdown on cryptocurrency.

Due to major cryptocurrency players in China having to exit the scene, the market will see a large exodus which will result in volatility before it stabilizes once again. When looking at the Binance chart from May 17 to 27 (10-day period), the RSI has not yet reached 30.

Ethereum Price Prediction Today

Bollinger Bands also show a small window that could signal either a huge bearish run coming soon. The sad part going back to the RSI is the last time $ETH dropped below the 30 lines was on May 19, reaching above 13. The last time it hit 30 RSI was on May 23.

The double dip in RSI on May 23 showed the price could go up, and it eventually did on May 24. The RSI dip on May 24 was a good indicator as it went down twice and in ascending order. As of the moment, the RSI is a bit undersold (but not yet below 30), and the Bollinger Bands are narrow, which could signal the stock could potentially go bearish.

Read Also: Investor Shows Bitter Truth About Cryptocurrency and How to Lose from $DOGE then $ETH

Will Ethereum Go Up?

With pretty solid support (but still not a 100% guarantee), the Ethereum price prediction can be made clearer once it at least reaches a closer RSI. If it doubles down, this could be a signal for potential temporary gain, but the data is not yet strong enough to support the thought of Ethereum going to $3,000 soon.

Disclaimer, the data might change at any time, so it is important to pay closer attention to the RSI, Bollinger Bands, and other indicators being used to make better predictions. As of the moment, $ETH is close to the RSI but hasn't yet doubled down.

Related Article: $ETC Ethereum Classic Expected to Go Up to $1,000 Due to 'Market Cap' Theory

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Memorial Day 2021 is among us, bringing a lot of deals and discounted items up for grabs even before the actual holiday, now featuring smartphone deals from the top brands and carriers in the country. Different deals from Verizon, Apple, Motorola, Samsung, OnePlus, and more companies are now live, bringing massive savings for buyers.

The actual day of the holiday is not until Monday, May 31, but has brought a lot of deals for people, including that of home appliance needs and smart home solutions, with the latest being gadgets. What better way there is to purchase a new smartphone or gadget that was already planned? It is by waiting for countrywide sales such as this one.

Earlier this week was the start of the earliest Memorial Day sales for 2021 with the likes of Walmart, Amazon, Home Depot and other retails stores offering their deals for house needs. However, the holiday's festivities do not stop there and are allowing more people to enjoy it, and not limited to those who are re-furnishing their houses.

Read Also: Lenovo Launches 2K-Screen YOGA Pad Pro--Price, Features, and its Availability Outside China

Memorial Day Sale 2021: Smartphone Deals Now Live

Apple via Verizon

It would not be a party without Apple's iOS in the lineup, and despite the Apple Store not featuring discounts via their official online store, Verizon is here to fill the gap.

One of their best deals for this year is the Buy One, Get One (BOGO) deal for the iPhone 12 Pro. Buyers would receive an iPhone 12 Pro for any purchases of an iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro, or iPhone 12 Pro Max, provided that the smartphone would be paid for in 24 to 36 months and purchases an Unlimited Plan for both devices.

On the other hand, Verizon's trade-in program is giving off more than $400 for an iPhone 12 and more, depending on the device's value.

Samsung via Best Buy

Samsung is also joining the sale, and it also would not be via its official online store, but via Best Buy which offers as much as $350 to save on an S21.

Off the bat, the Samsung Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, and Galaxy S21+ Ultra would have as much as $250 off its original price, but choosing to activate it immediately for its carrier, Best Buy is offering further discounts.

OnePlus

According to Phone Arena, OnePlus is offering discounts from $150 to as much as $200 for its smartphones via its official website, including that of the upper-class mid-range OnePlus 8T, OnePlus 8, and OnePlus 7T. The deals come with a complimentary bumper case but may vary on stocks.

Motorola

Last but not the least, Motorola's return to the smartphone industry has brought it to international recognition again, especially with its 5G smartphones which go against the industry leaders.

Memorial Day Sale 2021 offers the Motorola Edge and RAZR at $200 off their original prices, with its cheapest 5G, the Motorola One 5G is at $145 off.

Related Article: Apple Is Reportedly Now Having the A15 Bionic Chip Mass-Produced at TSMC

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
SpaceX successfully accomplished its 100th consecutive flight with the Falcon 9 rocket last Wednesday, May 26. During that time, 60 more Starlink satellites for the first phase of the global internet network project.

Before the new batch of satellites was launched, the company had already brought 1,737 Starlink internet satellites above. This summer, the space transportation company will continue its next take-off to carry out the private-funded mission.

Falcon 9 Rocket Achieves 100th Successful Flight in a Row

According to Spaceflight, out of 1,737 Starlink satellites in orbit, 1,574 of them are currently working before the new group of 60 internet satellites flew. The Falcon 9 rocket's journey also marks its 100th consecutive flight starting in June 2015.

Nearly six years ago, the second stage of the Falcon 9 rocket's flight went wrong on its way to the International Space Station. The second stage faltered which resulted in the crash of the Dragon capsule which landed in the Atlantic Ocean.

At the time of writing, SpaceX boasted that its rocket has already fulfilled a straight run of 99 victorious launches where some of which also hit the same spot in the ocean. Even though the aerospace manufacturer failed to convert its one mission into a successful take-off, that incident did not happen during the official release.

In 2016, the Amos-6 payload malfunctioned when the propellant had been loaded before the static fire test. Since the untimely circumstance, SpaceX focused its effort to bring out 90 rocket launches.

Read Also: SpaceX Contract: Falcon 9, Heavy Rockets Prepare to Release Six Moon Landers in Next Launch

After learning to crawl, walk and run, the Falcon 9 is now sprinting. Today:



 100th consecutive, successful launch of a Falcon 9



 16th launch of 2021, a cadence of one rocket every nine days



 6th launch during the last 33 days, once every five days pic.twitter.com/kmuBJwA82i  Eric Berger (@SciGuySpace) May 26, 2021

The Falcon 9 rocket used for the May 26 flight has been utilized previously for NASA's Sentinel-6A Earth science mission which took place in November 2020. From California, the first phase has been delivered to Florida for the starting preparation.

Moreover, the Merlin engines of the rocket were switched during the first stage due to the fact that Space has used it during the static fire test this week. This action is not the usual thing that SpaceX does when conducting Starlink missions.

SpaceX Has Eyed its 16th Launch of the Falcon 9 Rocket This 2021

According to Ars Technica, the "young" rocket has been in the limelight of the Starlink mission since SpaceX rarely makes use of it.

For the initial stages, the quick zoom of the spacecraft towards the sky could suggest that it is now ready for another mission. This year, SpaceX has also achieved its 16th launch of the said rocket.

So far, 13 of 16 launches were reportedly carrying a bunch of Starlink satellites. It's no wonder that SpaceX is truly dedicated to pushing the next wave for the broadband internet that would benefit the world.

This summer, we could expect the launch of the SiriusXM satellite, along with the US Space Force's GPS III satellite. NASA's 22nd Cargo Resupply mission is also included in the upcoming soar.

By next month, Florida could serve as the starting spot for these three launches.

Related Article: SpaceX: Upcoming Falcon Heavy Rocket Launches to be Delayed to Accommodate Payload Readiness

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
1Password, one of the most trusted and efficient password apps in the market, finally received new features that will surely make your password creation, editing, and other online activities easier and smoother.

These include Windows Hello and Touch ID supports, dark mode, and more.

As of the moment, 1Password and other online password managers are essential since many people, organizations, and companies are relying on them to keep their sensitive credentials safe.

1Password allows you to create and edit the best password you can use for your account. This will prevent hackers and other cybercriminals from easily acquiring your sensitive details. And now, the popular password manager will also make your experience a little better, thanks to its new updates.

1Password's New Features

According to SlashGear's latest report, the most notable changes of 1Password are its newly received Touch ID and Windows Hello supports.

Aside from these, the popular online service also supports the current Linux biometric locks.

Also Read: Android Password Manager 1Password Adds Individual Subscription Plan At $3 Per Month: Document Storage, Web Access And More

This means that users no longer need to worry about keeping their passwords safe.

On the other hand, the giant password manager company also confirmed that its users can expect easier and smoother password creation and editing.

1Password added that they can specifically see the details that the platform will change. Thanks to this update, users can now check if the password changes that will be made are suitable for their situations.

Aside from these, the password manager also received a new feature that allows it to know the requirements of various websites. For example, the popular online manager can now identify if the account you are currently making needs to have eight or nine characters for your password, and so on.

Dark Mode on 1Password?

On the other hand, 9to5Mac reported that the new version of 1Password will also receive a dark mode feature. This new feature will specifically benefit those who are accessing it late at night. Aside from experience enhancement, the new dark mode also makes your 1Password manager's appearance better than before.

However, the company hasn't confirmed the exact release date of its new dark mode feature. Although this is the case, some rumors and speculations claimed that 1Password will release it these following days or weeks.

For more news updates about 1Password and other online password managers, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

Related Article: 1Password's New Update Brings More Security Features for Mac Users! 'Unlock With Apple Watch' and More

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Self-driving car manufacturers have some concerns to consider before launching their new autonomous vehicles. A study suggested three things to look into, and the benefits of said tech to keep them going.

Most autonomous car pursuits are getting a reset, as there are much needed improvements needed to replace human drivers, the New York Times reported.

With that, Uber and Lyft are looking into other cheaper ventures, and have let go of their ambition of developing the said tech. Tech giants, as it seems, have too much capital to spare to continue with self-driving cars.

It includes Google-backed Waymo and Amazon's Rivian start-up.

Lyft, for instance, decided to sell its self-driving attempts to Toyota. Likewise, Uber has given up after millions of dollars spent, and sold its unit to a Silicon Valley start-up, the New York Times wrote in the same report.

Will all this said, one thing is certain: the driverless concept of cars still needs improvement.

Self-Driving Cars: What Needs to Be Improved

A study conducted by the University of Kent, Toulouse Business School, ESADE Business School, and ESSCA School of Management identified the top concerns for self-driving vehicles.

The researchers knew what most self-driving cars still lack via quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, The Next Web noted.

As a result, the topmost three concerns are:

Firstly, artificial intelligence and sensor systems pose a safety risk to their users. The performance of the two should be highly prioritized to ensure it could drive along the cluttered roads of America.

Secondly, as hacking has been a lucrative business for ransomware groups, consumers are, in turn, concerned about cybersecurity. Hacking a self-driving car is not far-fetched as it relies mainly on artificial intelligence.

And lastly, consumers are also worried about the reliance of the vehicle in an automated system. They assume that driving competency has degraded because of it.

Read Also: Domino's Self-Driving Pizza Delivery Robot From Nuro Rolls Out in Houston-How Does It Work?

What are the Benefits

Companies like Google and Tesla are not pursuing self-driving tech for no reason. It could compensate for what human drivers lack. And despite the struggle and complexity of achieving just that, here are reasons for these companies to move forward:

Firstly, it provides the ability to ease up traffic through better prediction, and speed handling.

Secondly, human error that leads to gore accidents could be long gone. And lastly, as time has been more immaculate than ever, a self-driving car could also free up time that fades when spent driving.

These suggestions could be helpful before self-driving trucks fill up the street of the United States.

Related Article: US-China Tech War Could Extend to Self-Driving Cars Through Bipartisan China Bill

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Teejay Boris

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Staff Member at Juvenile Center Charged with Abuse

By West Kentucky Star Staff



Through a joint investigation with CPS, the juvenile center and the sheriff's office, Hunter B. Suiter was arrested on a charge of 2nd degree criminal abuse-child under 12.





MARSHALL COUNTY - A Mayfield man is facing a criminal abuse charge.The Marshall County Sheriff's Office said detectives were contacted by Child Protective Services last week about a possible assault case. The complaint was that a staff member at a local juvenile center had assaulted a resident, under the age of 12.The incident reportedly happened at Purchase Youth Village in Benton on May 19.
Clearview AI is being hit by lawsuits due to its questionable methods. The Privacy International, or PI, and several other European privacy and digital rights organizations announced on May 27 that they have filed legal complaints against the controversial facial recognition company Clearview AI.

Clearview AI Lawsuit

The complaints filed in France, Greece, Austria, Italy, and the United Kingdom say that the company's method of documenting and collecting data, including images of faces it automatically extracts from public websites, violates European privacy laws.

The New York-based Clearview AI claims to have created the largest known database of 3 billion facial images, according to The Verge.

Hermes Center for Transparency and Digital Human Rights, PI, NYOB, and Homo Digitalis all claim that Clearview AI's data collection goes beyond what the average user would expect when using services like LinkedIn, Instagram, or YouTube.

Also Read: American Civil Liberties Union Sues Clearview AI for Violating Privacy

Ioannis Kouvakas, a PI legal officer, said in a statement that extracting their unique facial features, or even sharing them with the police and other companies goes far beyond what they could ever expect as online users.

Clearview AI uses an image scraper to automatically collect publicly available photos of faces across social media, and other public websites to build out its biometric database. It then sells access to that database, and the ability to identify people, to law enforcement agencies and private companies.

The legality of Clearview AI's approach to building its facial recognition service is the subject of a number of legal challenges globally.

The authorities in the United Kingdom and Australia opened a privacy probe in 2020 into the company's data scraping techniques, Fortune reported.

Clearview AI's Controversy

In February, Canada's privacy commissioners determined that Clearview AI's face scraping is illegal and creates a system that inflicts broad-based harm on all members of society, who find themselves continually in a police lineup.

Swedish police were fined by the country's data regulator of using Clearview AI's offering to unlawfully identify citizens, and in one case in Germany, the Hamburg Data Protection Agency ordered Clearview AI to delete the mathematical hash representing a user's profile after he complained.

In the United States, Clearview was sued by the American Civil Liberties Union in the state of Illinois in 2020 for violating the Illinois Biometric Privacy Act, alleging the that company illegally collected and stored data on Illinois citizens without their knowledge or consent, and then sold access to its technology to law enforcement and private companies.

ACLU attorney Nathan Free Wessler wrote in a blog post that the company has offered up a massive faceprint database to private companies, police, federal agencies, and wealthy individuals, allowing them to secretly track, and target whomever they wished using face recognition technology.

The results of that lawsuit contributed to the company's decision to stop selling its product to private US companies. Clearview AI also faced legal action in Vermont, California, and New York.

Privacy International say regulators have three months to respond to the complaints. In the meantime, you can request any data Clearview AI might have on you through the email and forms provided on its site, and ask that your face be omitted from client searches.

Related Article: Clearview AI Allegedly Searches Millions of Faces Without Consent: How to Check If You're Included

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Sophie Webster

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
OnePlus 8 and OnePlus Pro 8 debuted to mixed reactions. Even OnePlus has a pretty mixed reputation for updating all but the two newest phones, usually returning once every couple of months with a recent security patch in tow.

The company pushed out new software to several of its legacy devices last week, and it is now back to give some attention to the OnePlus 8, OnePlus 8 Pro, and OnePlus 8T.

OnePlus 8 and OnePlus Pro 8 Update

This latest version of OxygenOS is the first stable update for any of these phones since March, bringing along several enhancements and bug fixes, according to Android Police.

The home screen should feel a lot smoother when sliding back and forth between pages. Anyone who relies on wireless charging at night should find the experience much more stable as well.

Also Read: Android 11 Launched on Pixel First; OxygenOS 11 Open Beta Soon to Arrive on OnePlus 8, 8 Pro

OnePlus is also fixing some pretty severe bugs, including new photos not saving correctly to the gallery, and the call page not appearing during a phone call. All of that update is here, plus the security patch for May.

Most of the recent features added to OnePlus's beta, including a new Bitmoji-themed ambient display, are not ready for this release, so you will need to check out the Open Beta channel for those experimental inclusions.

This update is arriving on phones in India first, with releases set for Europe and North America over the coming days. As always, you can check out the complete list of patch notes over at the OnePlus forums for all three models, as per XDA Developers.

Complete Update

Here is the complete update changelog for the latest OnePlus update.

The first is the system. It now has improved the wireless charging stability, and user experience, as well as improved the smoothness while sliding on the home screen.

The update also fixed the issue with screenshot capturing and the low battery notification that was not working properly before.

Next is the gallery. The update fixed the occasional issue that newly captured photos were not saved as expected, and it also fixed the abnormal UI display in Guest Mode.

The third is the phone itself. The update fixed the occasional issue of opening up the contact and card failure, and it fixed the issue that the calling page is not displayed during a call.

Then there is the messages, with the update fixing the occasional failure to edit a message. And lastly, there is the network, and the update improved its overall performance.

The latest update has started rolling out to the OnePlus 8, OnePlus 8 Pro, and OnePlus 8T. As usual with phased rollouts, the update might take some time to reach all of the units.

Both OnePlus 8 Pro and the OnePlus Pro are proper smartphones and OnePlus did not cut corners with these devices. However, it fell short when it comes to performance due to several bugs that disturbed the users.

Thankfully, the latest patch fixed all of the concerns and fans of the device are now waiting for the next step from OnePlus.

Related Article: OnePlus 8 and OnePlus 8 Pro Update OxygenOS 11.0.3.3 Review: Here's What You'll be Getting

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Sophie Webster

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
NVIDIA, probably counting cash right now: dollar dollar bills, y'all.

If there's one thing to be gained from this GPU shortage and cryptocurrency mining boom, it's money. And NVIDIA is raking in hundreds of millions of it from their specially-designed cryptocurrency mining processors (CMP) GPUs, according to PCGamer. Around USD $155 million, give or take.

It seems like NVIDIA's original plan to sell CMP cards to miners is doing a good job sales-wise. Shortly after their release, the CMPs' earnings during the first half of this year was over triple the initial expected sales at USD $50 million.

Furthermore, NVIDIA expects an even greater boom in their mining card sales for the second quarter, with the company looking to earn a cool USD $400 million in total sales.

Despite this, however, a CNBC report revealed that Team Green's biggest market is still gaming, where it earned a massive USD $2.7 billion in total revenue.

These CMP cards were supposed to be NVIDIA's main solutions to the GPU shortage that has plagued gamers all over. It's worth noting that their current-gen RTX 3000 series are selling for exorbitant prices both locally and overseas, which has put them out of reach for most gamers.

But are they really doing what they're supposed to--sway crypto miners from buying all the desirable gaming-focused GPUs during a cryptocurrency boom?

Read also: NVIDIA RTX 3080 Ti, 3070 Ti-Equipped Prebuilt PCs From Razer Are Now Available for PREORDER

NVIDIA CMPs: What Are They, And Are They Fulfilling Their Expected Jobs?

Imagine a graphics card without the typical display outputs, and with a slightly modified hardware configuration (i.e. less CUDA cores, no external power connector when there should be one). That's basically what a CMP is.

According to the NVIDIA blog, the CMP is specifically optimized for professional mining, with a main focus on Ethereum, which is the most popular alt coin being mined right now. They basically perform similar to gaming-grade RTX GPUs, though Team Green touts them to be far more efficient at mining.

Crypto miners have four different choices, each offering varying hash rate performances.

But then, why are RTX graphics cards still so hard to get despite CMPs actually selling really well?

The reason is simple: resale value. Any cryptocurrency mining enthusiast in their right mind understands that the market for crypto is extremely finicky. One day they can be super profitable, the next they'll crash through the floor.

They have to think of some sort of a backup plan to recoup their initial investment if a crash happens. That's where gaming-focused graphics cards come in.

A CMP compared to, say, an RTX 3090, has basically no resale value. Because what else can they be used for other than mining? The RTX card, on the other hand, can be used for both mining and gaming. That's the card's entire value right there. Miners know this, and as such purchase gaming-grade GPUs whenever they can for that "backup."

Right now, NVIDIA does seem to make a lot of money from their CMPs, but their current-gen RTX graphics cards are still overpriced in both the brand new and secondhand markets. This is further proof that while cryptocurrency mining does play a part in the current GPU shortage, they're only one side of a coin.

Related: Ethereum GPU Crisis: Crypto Value Goes Up, Graphics Card Sees Shortage-How Much is Ether Now?

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by RJ Pierce

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Marshall Couple Arrested For Warrants, Evasion

By West Kentucky Star Staff

GILBERTSVILLE - A Marshall County couple was arrested Wednesday trying to flee from police serving warrants.Marshall County deputies responded to a Gilbertsville home to serve a parole warrant on Terry J. Blades.As deputies searched the home, Blades reportedly fled the scene but was arrested a short time later.At the same time, deputies said a woman was observed running away from a building on the back lawn of the home. She was arrested and identified as Joy D. Adrian, who was also wanted on a warrant.Blades was served with his parole warrant and charged with second-degree fleeing or evading police (on foot) and resisting arrest.Adrian was served with a warrant for probation violation and charged with second-degree fleeing or evading police (on foot).
Not All Kentuckians Getting Second COVID Vaccine

By Kentucky News Network



Kentucky health commissioner Dr. Steven Stack says the state averages a 90 percent follow-up rate. However, that varies from region to region.



As things start to improve, he says it could become more of an issue.





Experts in vaccine development said the second shot is necessary to increase the effectiveness and the length of the vaccine protection.



Dr. Vincent Venditto with the UK College of Pharmacy says emerging variants of COVID-19 are another reason its so important to make sure people are fully protected.



He also said everyone might need a booster shot of the COVID-19 vaccine each year.

LEXINGTON - State leaders are concerned about Kentuckians who arent getting their second COVID-19 vaccine.
Madisonville, KY (42431)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun with a slight chance of thunderstorms this afternoon. High 93F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 72F. Winds light and variable.
Chick-Fil-A will close its location on Ambassador Caffery Parkway and move to a spot near the Costco Warehouse next year.

Local operator John Arton said papers have been signed for the company to acquire the former Red Robin Gourmet Hamburgers location at 101 Meadow Farm Road and move there. Work will begin in early 2022 and could be open by April.

The location at 3806 Ambassador Caffery Parkway first opened in 1997 as the popular quick serve chain first started branching out of locations inside shopping malls. But it does not offer the larger amount of space that newer locations have to handle the drive-thru line, which often spills out of the parking lot into the street.

That location has two drive-thru lanes that feed into one lane and is capable of holding on 12 cars at one time, or 175 in one hour at best, Arton said. Most Chick-Fil-A locations, including the Louisiana Avenue store, can operate two lanes around the restaurant that can hold more than 30 cars at one time, or nearly 250 in one hour.

We couldnt do anything with the property we had, Arton said. We tried every which way of making it work.

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Company officials will demolish the Red Robin location and build a store with the new concept design with two drive-thru lanes, he said.

The Atlanta-based company oversees all its real estate affairs, including site selection, purchasing, construction and equipment. It opened a new design store in Georgia that features modular construction aimed at increasing efficiency.

Ive been to our new concepts, Arton said. The new concept is faster than that one. This store will be a beautiful store. But its just the flow of traffic and the production that we have inside. Well be able to flow the product out of the window. Then we can feed that second line.
A rally to demand justice for Ronald Greene kicked off Thursday on the steps of the state Capitol with a news report about his death playing over a loudspeaker.

"He didn't stand a chance," a woman's voice declared through the PA system. "Ronny didn't stand a chance."

Roughly 200 people showed up to the late afternoon event, which began with speeches and continued with a march  led by Greene's family, interlocking arms  to the governor's mansion.

Many marchers hoisted signs that read, "When we fight, we win."

In a call-and-response, they chanted, "No justice, no peace."

As the procession approached the Old State Capitol, they switched up the monody to, "We do not consent."

When they reached the wrought iron gate to the governor's mansion, they began to pray.

"I need you to soften the hearts of these wicked, wicked people, Lord," an organizer leading the invocation said.

Among the crowd were friends and family of other Louisiana men who died in police custody, including the mother of Trayford Pellerin, a 31-year-old who was shot and killed by Lafayette police after a foot chase last August.

From a podium at the Capitol steps, before the march commenced, ACLU of Louisiana Executive Director Alanah Odoms said Greene's rights were violated on May 10, 2019, when he took his last breath after bring brutalized by State Police.

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"What does citizenship mean for Black people in Louisiana?" Odoms asked the crowd. "I think the family of Ronald Greene ... would say 'not a damn thing.'"

Attorneys for the Greene family said they were initially told he died from injuries after a long police chase that ended in a car crash on a dark Union Parish road.

But bodycam footage later emerged showing officers punching, stun-gunning and dragging a shackled Greene. The incident is now part of a federal civil rights investigation.

Ron Haley, one of the attorneys representing Green's family, took to the podium Thursday to echo the call for accountability. He said nine policy body cameras  whose footage was released last week  should be enough to prove officers' guilt.

"If you inflict great bodily harm or have the specific intent to kill," he said, "that is murder."

+2 In death of Ronald Greene, State Police officer misled investigators, documents say NEW ORLEANS (AP)  In perhaps the strongest evidence yet of an attempted cover-up in the deadly 2019 arrest of Ronald Greene, the ranking Loui

In press conferences earlier Thursday, advocates and attorneys for Greene's family called for criminal charges against the state troopers who were involved.

"We are not interested in another apology, handholding or kumbaya moment," lawyer Lee Merritt said. "We want justice for the family of Ronald Greene."

State Police officials said the question of criminal charges falls to a federal grand jury. Officials have not provided a timeline on when a grand jury decision might come down.

Reporter Lea Skene contributed to this story.
Following the recent release of bodycam footage showing Ronald Greene taking his last breaths after being brutally beaten and tased by several Louisiana state troopers, attorneys and advocates on Thursday amplified calls for criminal charges against the officers involved.

The May 2019 incident is part of an ongoing federal civil rights investigation. State Police officials said the question of criminal charges falls to a federal grand jury. Officials have not provided a timeline on when a grand jury decision might come down.

+8 Louisiana State Police unseal 9 videos in deadly Ronald Greene arrest; here's what they show After leaked copies of body cam footage showed state troopers repeatedly punching and stun-gunning a Black man during a deadly traffic stop ne

"Mr. Greene was killed by these state troopers," said Marc Morial, the national Urban League president. "After seeing that video, no reasonable person could come to any other conclusion other than a crime has been committed, by Louisiana state troopers."

Morial, the former mayor of New Orleans, participated in a media call Thursday morning with attorneys for Greene's family and other advocates. They called for the immediate arrests and prosecutions of the troopers involved, along with a review of State Police actions.

Advocates and attorneys later held a press conference in front of the State Capitol at noon Thursday.

"We are not interested in another apology, handholding or a kumbaya moment," Attorney Lee Merritt said. "We want justice for the family of Ronald Greene."

The family and their attorneys were scheduled to meet with Gov. John Bel Edwards that afternoon. A rally was also planned for 3 p.m.

So far, one of the troopers involved  Chris Hollingsworth, who was caught on tape saying he "beat the ever-living f***" out of Greene  died in a single-vehicle crash last year hours after learning he would be fired for his actions. Another trooper, Dakota DeMoss, faces pending termination, and a third, Kory York, received a 50-hour unpaid suspension earlier this year for kicking and dragging a handcuffed Greene.

The highest ranking trooper on the scene, Lt. John Clary, misled internal investigators about what happened, saying Greene was still a threat to flee after being shackled and denying the existence of his own bodycam footage, the Associated Press reported earlier this week. State Police officials said internal investigators are still trying to figure out "why those videos were not identified during the original criminal investigation."

Attorneys for the Greene family said relatives were initially told the man died from injuries sustained in a car crash following the long police chase that ended on a dark Union Parish road.

State Police released all known video evidence from the encounter last Friday, only after most of the footage had already been leaked to the Associated Press.

+2 State Police Troop F, under fire for Ronald Greene death, lacks diversity at just 9% Black As Ronald Greene lay gashed and spitting up blood on a dark Union Parish road, he took his last breaths surrounded by a group of Louisiana sta

After details about how Greene died started coming to light last year, State Police arrested four Monroe-based troopers accused of using excessive force in two separate incidents, also involving Black suspects during traffic stops. The additional incidents have raised significant questions about cultural problems at Troop F, which is based in Monroe and patrols a dozen parishes in northeast Louisiana.

Attorneys and advocates are demanding to know why those cases have resulted in criminal charges while the Greene investigation has not.

"We're over two years. I don't know how I can say it any louder," said Mona Hardin, Greene's mother, speaking during a virtual media briefing Thursday morning. "It doesn't even seem rational to even speak any more of this because of what we know, what we have on hand.  We need someone to be arrested. We need them to be indicted."

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Speaking on the Capitol steps, Hardin said she wants to see the governor show he has a heart. She said she hoped to convey that message to him.

Following his meeting with the Greene family Thursday afternoon, Edwards released a statement calling the actions of the troopers in this incident "deeply unprofessional and incredibly disturbing."

"The officers seen on the body cam footage of Mr. Greene's arrest do not represent what we aspire to in the state of Louisiana," he said. "I am disappointed in them and in any officer who stood by and did not intervene during the arrest.

"Law enforcement officers must hold themselves to the highest standards at all times. I certainly do."

Edwards also said he promised the grieving mother that "Louisiana State Police is cooperating fully with the Union Parish District Attorney and the U.S. Department of Justice in their investigations and that under the leadership of a new state police superintendent, change has already started at the agency."

"What happened was tragic, and I cannot imagine the immense pain of losing a child in such a terrible way," Edwards said. "Nothing can make up for the disturbing treatment he received at the hands of some state troopers."

Merritt said he met with John Belton, the Union Parish district attorney, earlier Thursday. Merritt said the prosecutor indicated arrest warrants would have to come from State Police themselves because the agency had not turned over the complete file to his office.

"We asked Mr. Belton quite frankly and quite directly: Was he ready for a judge to sign a warrant for the arrests of the men involved in the crimes?" Merritt said. "He indicated that the state police had still not turned over a complete file and that the State Police would be required to make an arrest. We simply reject that."

"However, we also are encouraging the governor's office and State Police to go ahead and make the arrest as a start on the path to justice," he added. "No one has made that commitment to us so far."

Given the lack of action, Merritt accused Louisiana leaders of having no taste for justice, saying they seem more committed to upholding a structure designed to keep Black communities oppressed.

+9 Attorneys highlight similarities in alleged beatings of Black suspects by Louisiana state troopers When he heard about allegations that Louisiana State Police troopers had beaten a Black man to death and then tried to cover up their actions,

Beyond pushing for arrests from an ongoing federal investigation, Morial argued for a broader federal review of the state's premier law enforcement agency.

He suggested the kind of "pattern or practice" investigations into local and state police agencies that Attorney General Jeff Sessions shelved in the early days of the Trump administration, but which President Joe Biden's administration has restarted.

Eugene Collins, NAACP Baton Rouge branch president, said the limited discipline that State Police thus far have handed down over the incident showed an agency that hasn't proven "the ability to do the right thing by themselves yet."

"Receiving 50 hours of discipline for dragging a man is just wild, to think somebody thought that was good enough," he said.

Some calls from advocates targeted Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry, arguing he should step in and enforce state laws. But Landry issued a statement Thursday afternoon saying that would violate the rules, unless the Union Parish district attorney recuses himself.
Advocate staff file photo by BILL FEIG --

LSU is accepting nominations for the LSU100, which lists the fastest-growing businesses owned or led by graduates, and the LSU Roaring10, which recognizes the highest revenue generating businesses owned or led by alumni.

Companies must apply each year to be considered for a spot on the list.
The results of a forensic test on the bullet that killed an infant during a police shooting with the babys father are in, but authorities are not yet releasing the information.

You know, I cant discuss that, Biloxi Police Chief John Miller told the Sun Herald, citing the ongoing independent investigation the agency is handling.

The shooting happened May 3 after Gulfport police, Mississippi Highway Patrol state troopers and Harrison County deputies started chasing the babys father and double homicide suspect Eric Derrell Smith, 30, of Baton Rouge.

Infant died from gunshot wound after double homicide suspect's shootout with police, coroner says The baby shot Monday during a gunfight in Mississippi between a man on the run for killing two people in Baker and the authorities pursuing hi

The pursuit started after Smiths blue Nissan Altima crossed state lines into Mississippi with his 4-month-old boy, Lamello Parker, in the car with him. Smith had kidnapped his son, authorities said, and had the baby in his lap or in the front seat during the pursuit.

Once Mississippi law enforcement used spike strips, Smith continued to drive at speeds as low as 10 mph. When the car got stuck in the grassy median just west of the Woolmarket exit, Smith opened the car door, and the shooting started.

Videos from drivers on the interstate show officers fired over 20 rounds into the car. The shooting started early on, Miller said, after Smith shot at the officers.

Smith died of gunshot wounds at the scene, and the baby died a day later at an Alabama hospital.

+2 Inside the highway chase, police shootout that killed a double murder suspect and his infant son While leading police on a chase through Louisiana and Mississippi following a double homicide near Baker, Eric Derrell Smith sat behind the wh

WHAT THE INCIDENT REPORT SAYS

Biloxi police are independently investigating the shooting since Gulfport police, Harrison County sheriffs deputies and state troopers were involved in the shooting.

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In response to a records request form the Sun Herald, an attorney for Biloxi police provided three pages of an incident report, but excluded two other pages cited as being exempt from public disclosure because they are investigative reports.

The redacted report shows that Mississippi authorities got involved after they received a May 3 complaint from the East Baton Rouge Sheriffs Office.

The incident report contains only one sentence: known subject (Smith) was a wanted fugitive from justice and discovered to be in possession of a kidnapped child.

The name of the victim is redacted but is listed as a missing person. Louisiana police had identified the baby as kidnapped and missing that morning.

Baby taken from Baker home after killings dies from injuries suffered in Mississippi chase The child taken along on an interstate police chase that ended in gunfire after a man fled authorities following the killing two people at a r

INCREASE TRANSPARENCY

The kidnapping took place after Smith reportedly shot and killed his ex-girlfriend, Christin, and her nephew, at their home just outside of Baton Rouge in rural Baker. The baby was at the home at the time, the East Baton Rouge Sheriffs Office said.

Since the babys death, members of Black Lives Matter Mississippi and the Biloxi chapter of the NAACP have demanded access to police reports and videos that show exactly who is responsible for the babys death.

It is important that local authorities proactively work to increase transparency and grow public trust, the NAACP said in a statement.

Members of Black Lives Matter Mississippi are organizing another protest Sunday outside the Gulfport Police Department to again demand accountability and justice over the babys death, said group president Reginald Virgil.

Biloxi police have not said whether there is any body camera footage of the shooting. The results of the investigation will be turned over to the Harrison County Sheriffs Office.
BEIJING, May 26 (Xinhua)  Chinese President Xi Jinping said Wednesday that China is willing to work with Montenegro to carry forward their friendship, consolidate political mutual trust, and to promote the continuous development of bilateral relations.

During a phone conversation with Montenegrin President Milo Djukanovic, Xi said China stands ready to continuously deepen practical cooperation with Montenegro in various fields such as infrastructure construction, so as to better benefit the people of the two countries.

Xi pointed out that since the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Montenegro, the two countries have always maintained high-level political mutual trust, and supported each other on issues involving their respective core interests and major concerns.

Driven by such mechanisms as Belt and Road cooperation as well as cooperation between China and Central and Eastern European countries (CEECs), China and Montenegro have achieved outstanding results in cooperation in such key areas as transportation infrastructure construction and energy, he noted.

Xi said that since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the two countries have been supporting each other, and carrying out sound cooperation in such fields as pandemic prevention and control as well as production resumption.

China is willing to continue to provide as much assistance as its capacity allows for Montenegro's fight against the pandemic, and promote the building of a global community of health for all, Xi said.

Noting that the world is facing changes unseen in a century and a once-in-a-century pandemic, Xi said the two sides should maintain close coordination on multilateral affairs, jointly safeguard international equity and justice, and commit themselves to building a community with a share future for mankind.

Xi recalled that during the recent China-CEEC summit, he reached broad consensuses with Djukanovic and other participating leaders, and they made important plans for the development of the cooperation mechanism.

Noting that this year is the China-CEEC Year of Green Development and Environmental Protection, Xi said that China supports Montenegro in playing a positive role as the lead country of the China-CEEC environmental protection cooperation mechanism.

China stands ready to work with Montenegro to implement the consensuses and achievements of the summit and continuously consolidate and develop China-CEEC cooperation, he added.

For his part, Djukanovic expressed warm congratulations on the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

Noting that under Xi's strong leadership, China has made great achievements in development, he said he believes that under the leadership of the CPC, China will surely attain new and greater achievements.

Montenegro and China enjoy a profound friendship and are true, sincere and good friends, said Djukanovic.

He said his country appreciates China's consistent adherence to the principle of equality between big and small countries, and its respect for the independent choices of development paths different countries have made in line with their respective national conditions.

Montenegro, he added, is also grateful for China's valuable support for Montenegro's economic and social development and its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

Belt and Road cooperation and the CEEC-China cooperation mechanism have brought important opportunities and tangible benefits to Montenegro and other countries in the region, Djukanovic said.

He said Montenegro stands ready to work with China to continuously push forward cooperation in such areas as infrastructure, economy, trade, education, culture and tourism, and welcomes more corporate investments and cooperation from China.

Montenegro will continue to actively participate in and firmly push for greater development of CEEC-China cooperation, and resolutely safeguard multilateralism, Djukanovic said.

He said he has full confidence that Montenegro-China and CEEC-China cooperation will embrace more vigorous development in the future.

(Source: Xinhua)
Canadian National said it will sell a 70-mile rail line connecting Baton Rouge and New Orleans to help secure regulators' approval for its $33.6 billion acquisition of Kansas City Southern, a move that could maintain rail competition in the area and help efforts to connect the two cities with passenger rail.

The two rail companies filed a motion with the U.S. Surface Transportation Board Wednesday to set up a voting trust that would acquire Kansas City Southern and own the railroad while regulators review the deal.

The Baton Rouge to New Orleans line is the only area of overlap between the Canadian National and Kansas City Southern rail networks.

Could Baton Rouge-New Orleans passenger rail finally happen? Here are Biden, Amtrak plans Prospects for a passenger rail line connecting Baton Rouge and New Orleans got a boost this week after the Biden administration proposed $80 b

Under the proposal made Wednesday, the Kansas City Southern line between Baton Rouge and New Orleans would be sold. Thats the preferred route for passenger rail, said John Spain, executive vice president of the Baton Rouge Area Foundation and a longtime advocate for passenger rail service. Thats where we have stations planned, its the one with access to Louis Armstrong International Airport, he said.

One possibility could be that the section of rail owned by Canadian National could handle freight and the former Kansas City Southern line have passenger service or passenger service with a limited amount of freight.

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It's too early to speculate who would buy the rail line, but the fact that Canadian National has said they want to divest the track is an opportunity for passenger rail, Spain said.

Would you use it? New survey examines possible railway connecting Baton Rouge, New Orleans A 2010 study of a possible passenger rail service between Baton Rouge and New Orleans forecasts that 39,000 riders could be zipping between th

On Friday, Canadian National won the bidding war for Kansas City Southern over a competing $25 billion bid from Canadian Pacific railroad, but CP said it plans to continue pursuing regulatory approval for its combination with Kansas City Southern so it will be prepared if the CN deal fails to get approval.

Canadian Pacific maintains that competition will be hurt across much of central United States because Canadian National and Kansas City Southern both operate parallel rail lines that connect the Midwest to the Gulf Coast.

The transportation board hasnt approved any major railroad mergers since the 1990s, so current merger rules havent been tested. It has generally said that any deal involving one of the nations six largest railroads needs to enhance competition and serve the public interest to get approved. The board has also said it would consider whether any deal would destabilize the industry and prompt additional mergers.
A Port Allen man accused of fatally shooting an LSU post-graduate student working part-time at a Baton Rouge convenience store in 2019 is being sent to a mental facility for evaluation after doctors questioned his competency to stand trial.

Antonio D. Watts, 24, is charged with second-degree murder, armed robbery and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in the slaying of Md Firoz-Ul-Amin, 29, at Mr. Lucky's Valero Gas Station on Airline Highway.

+2 In LSU Ph.D. student's slaying, Port Allen man indicted on murder and other counts A Port Allen man accused of fatally shooting an LSU post-graduate student working part-time as a gas station clerk was indicted Thursday on mu

Watts was on parole and had recently failed to show up for scheduled drug treatment when authorities say he shot Firoz-Ul-Amin unprovoked and stepped over his body to get cash from the register in the early morning hours of Sept. 7, 2019.

State District Judge Kelly Balfour appointed two psychiatrists last fall to determine Watts' competency to stand trial. After reviewing their reports, the judge on May 12 ordered Watts sent to the state mental facility in Jackson for more evaluation and treatment.

Balfour scheduled a sanity review hearing for Nov. 15.

The East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Office has said Watts confessed to the shooting, which was captured on store surveillance video.

Man accused of killing LSU PhD student was on parole, recently skipped out on drug treatment A man accused of killing a convenience store clerk and then stepping over the victim's body to rob the cash register at an Airline Highway bus

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The footage shows a man matching Watts' description enter the store wearing dark clothes and a black ski mask covering his face, and brandishing a handgun, an arrest report states. The intruder appeared "unprovoked" when he shot the clerk in his abdomen, detectives said.

The shooter is then seen "vicariously walking over the victim and gaining entry to the register area," the report says. He took about $300 from the register in addition to "petty cash and rolled coins beneath the counter" and flees the scene on foot, police said.

After his arrest, Watts "provided specific details about the crimes, which would only be known to the perpetrator" and "were confirmed from the video surveillance," detectives wrote in an affidavit.

Firoz-Ul-Amin, of Bangladesh, had earned his bachelor's degree and master's degree in computer science and engineering, respectively, from Jahangirnagar University in Bangladesh.

+6 LSU Ph.D. student shot dead at Baton Rouge gas station was gifted researcher, soon to be married An LSU graduate student was months away from returning home to Bangladesh to get married when he was fatally shot early Saturday morning durin

At the time of his death, he was studying computer science as a doctoral student and would have graduated with his doctorate from LSU in 2023. He had been planning to return home and get married, and bring his bride back to Baton Rouge as he finished his studies.

A second-degree murder conviction carries a mandatory sentence of life in prison.
Raising concerns about "environmental justice," five Democratic attorneys general for New York, the District of Columbia and three other states in the Northeast said they want the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to conduct a more thorough review before permitting a $9.4 billion Formosa Plastics complex in St. James Parish.

In a joint letter, the attorney generals argued the Corps' decision potentially affects their states and Washington, D.C., because of the complex's potential impact on migratory waterfowl, air quality, sea level rise and low-income, minority residents.

"By meaningfully analyzing and mitigating these impacts, the Corps will complement and enhance our States environmental justice initiatives and set a strong national precedent for protecting overburdened communities across the nation and in our jurisdictions," the joint letter says.

The attorneys general want the Corps to do a full "environmental impact statement," which would involve much more research and could further delay project completion. The Corps had previously done a less rigorous environmental assessment.

+7 As Biden, other national figures blast "Cancer Alley," some in Louisiana push back With President Joe Biden placing a new focus on climate change and Democrats running both chambers of Congress, some Louisiana industry groups

The letter was signed by top aides for New York Attorney General Letitia James, Connecticut Attorney General William Tong, New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal, Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey and DC Attorney General Karl Racine.

Some elected officials defended the project, which they said met federal and state health and safety standards.

"Once again, folks outside of Louisiana are demanding jobs and economic security be stripped away from these communities to satisfy their agenda," Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., said.

Called the Sunshine Project, the 2,400-acre plastics complex proposed along the Mississippi River would support about 1,200 permanent jobs and thousands more in spinoff employment. It would also generate tens of millions of dollars per year in local and state taxes, the company says.

But it is proposed in the heart of Louisiana's petrochemical belt and near an antebellum cemetery. Environmental advocates argue it would boost harmful toxic and greenhouse emissions near already overburdened minority communities.

Some advocates have criticized the $1.5 billion in tax breaks Louisiana is giving the company.

Democrats urge Biden to revoke permits for big Louisiana plastics plant; Cassidy says butt out The chairman of the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources and one of his committee colleagues urged President Joe Biden on Wednesday to "p

In their letter, the attorneys general say the plant would be Louisiana's largest greenhouse gas emitter once fully completed in a decade. And, permit records show, would more than double toxic air emissions in St. James.

Critics have also aired worries about plastic pellets from the complex escaping into surrounding waterways and swamps that are home to wildlife. Formosa has had a chronic problem with those pellets at one of its plants in Texas.

Nearby residents and regional and national community activists and environmental groups have continued to fight the project through various state and federal permitting reviews, lawsuits and public campaigns and welcomed the joint letter.

The AGs' letter follows more recent pressure from out-of-state officials and groups, including a United Nations special rapporteur, on agencies to more closely scrutinize the project  or to block it altogether.

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Gov. John Bel Edwards and much, though not all, of the St. James Parish political leadership have gotten behind the project.

Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry, a Republican who has joined several multistate initiatives with other attorney generals on conservative causes, did not sign the letter to the Corps of Engineers.

"I would remind my colleagues that there is only one kind of justice, and it is not compartmentalized," Landry said in a statement. "Justice is not being served when the Biden Administration systematically kills jobs and breaks the middle class."

+4 New industrial growth in Louisiana's 'Cancer Alley' is 'environmental racism,' UN panel says United Nations observers said this week that further industrialization in the Mississippi River corridor between Baton Rouge and New Orleans i

Morgan Rubin, a spokesperson for New York Attorney General James, said Landry was not asked to sign the letter because there was no indication he would not support the project.

Facing a lawsuit over the decision to grant a wetlands permit for Formosa, the Corps suspended the permit on Nov. 10.

The agency announced it wanted to take a closer look at whether the site is the best one possible, weighing benefits versus negative impacts.

Ricky Boyett, spokesperson for the Corps in New Orleans, said Tuesday that Formosa affiliate FG LA has turned over all the information, including the data underlying its site analysis, that the Corps needs for its review.

He couldn't say how long the agency might take to make a decision.

"We don't have a timeline yet because we don't know if additional information will be needed," Boyett said.

He said the agency hasn't yet gotten to the point of deciding whether an environmental impact statement will be needed.

The agency is considering three final options, Boyett said: denial, approval with modifications or approval.

Janile Parks, spokesperson for FG LA, said the company has been cooperating with the Corps and is confident the plant, which would be located in an area designated for industry, meets all regulatory criteria.

"The company continues to believe the permit awarded to FG by the Corps is solid and meets all legal criteria," she said, "and will ultimately be affirmed following the additional review."

Editor's note: This story was changed at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, May 27, 2021, to correct the name of Morgan Rubin, who was misidentified in an earlier version of this story, and to clarify her statement about whether the Louisiana attorney general was invited to sign a letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Louisiana medical marijuana patients will likely soon be able to access the raw, smokable form of the drug, after the state Legislature agreed to expand the program beyond the current non-smokable forms like tinctures, gummies and inhalers.

The state Senate voted 23-to-14 Thursday to approve Rep. Tanner Magees House Bill 391, which lets patients buy up to two-and-a-half ounces of marijuana flower every two weeks from the states nine licensed marijuana pharmacies.

+4 Marijuana legalization effort is done for now. Here's how it was different, and its future The effort to legalize marijuana for recreational use in Louisiana, which got further than ever before this year after an unexpected bipartisa

The Senate made technical changes that still need the Houses approval. After that, the bill would head to the desk of Gov. John Bel Edwards, a Democrat who has indicated hell sign it.

The bill represents a significant expansion of Louisianas medical marijuana program, which was put in place with some of the nations tightest regulations several years ago.

Meanwhile, Senate leaders are trying to use the companion bill to tax the smokable form of marijuana to also extend the states sales tax increase in an effort to fund road and bridge projects.

Magees bill to legalize the smokable form of marijuana for medical use also illustrates the shifting attitudes surrounding marijuana by Louisianas conservative state Legislature, which for several years has slowly loosened the tight rules on the medical marijuana program. A host of lawmakers, including conservative Republicans, testified during hearings on the bill that they know family members or friends who benefitted from the drug for medical purposes, like end-of-life cancer care.

Magee has argued that with nearby states legalizing the smokable form of marijuana for medical use, Louisianas program will be rendered obsolete unless lawmakers keep up. Patients prefer the raw flower of the plant and the bill will help patients access a cheaper product, he said.

Louisiana House overwhelmingly backs bill to allow smokable medical marijuana The Louisiana House has backed proposals to legalize and tax the raw, smokable form of medical marijuana, a key expansion of the states medic

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Magee also wants to tax the raw form of marijuana hes trying to legalize, through a separate tax bill. The non-smokable forms of marijuana currently available to patients arent subject to sales taxes.

But Senate leaders also are using House Bill 514 in a bid to make other significant tax changes that would raise hundreds of millions of dollars for infrastructure projects. Sen. Rick Ward, R-Port Allen, amended HB514 on the Senate floor Wednesday to extend the temporary 0.45% of state sales tax  passed in 2018 to help balance the budget  from 2025 to 2031 with much of the proceeds going towards infrastructure projects like a new Interstate 10 bridge over the Calcasieu River in Lake Charles, upgrades to U.S. Hey. 90 through bayou country to create an interstate highway from Lafayette to New Orleans, a new I-10 bridge over the Mississippi River in Baton Rouge and other projects.

Ward called the proposal a really good infrastructure package that has the support of Senate President Page Cortez, R-Lafayette. The Senate Finance Committee will vet the bill before it returns to the full Senate. Some Democrats complained that the state shouldnt extend the higher sales tax rate because its regressive.

If we continue to push the ball down the road and wait for some other possibility to come along to fund our infrastructure, all were going to hear is I went to Texas last week and theyve got some great roads, Ward said Wednesday.

Lawmakers have brought several bills to loosen Louisianas conservative stance on marijuana this session, which must end June 10th. The state House rejected a bid to legalize the drug for recreational use, amid pressure by the influential Louisiana Sheriffs Association. But opponents have also conceded legalization is likely inevitable and vowed to study the issue ahead of next years session.

The House approved legislation to decriminalize marijuana, taking away the possibility of jail time when people are caught possessing up to a half-ounce of pot and instead issuing them a summons that comes with an up to $100 fine.

That bill was approved by the Senate Judiciary C Committee and awaits a vote of the full Senate.
The sponsor of legislation to split BREC into three parks and recreation districts dropped his proposal Thursday and said he wants BREC leaders to address his complaints in the next 12 months.

Sen. Bodi White, R-Central, made the announcement during a meeting of the House Municipal, Parochial and Cultural Affairs Committee, which was set to hear the Senate-passed measure.

He said his decision followed a series of meetings with BREC Superintendent Corey K. Wilson and others, including Wednesday night and Thursday morning.

"I have agreed to give them one more year to address these concerns," White told the committee in a crowded hearing room, mostly opponents of the legislation.

Wilson, who appeared at the witness table with White, praised the senator's "passion" for the issue and said he is confident all the parties can work out any differences. "I think we can improve the lines of communication," he said.

The bill would create new parks and recreation districts for Central and Zachary, in addition to the current one.

+2 Proposal to break up BREC breezes through Senate; future uncertain in House A bill that would divide the East Baton Rouge Parish parks and recreation system into three separate districts breezed through the state Senat

Each of the new districts would have their own boards and superintendents.

Critics said the legislation would needlessly duplicate existing services and damage an award-winning parks and recreation system.

Sponsor confident BREC breakup bill will pass Senate; mayor opposed The sponsor of a bill that would divide the parks and recreation system for East Baton Rouge Parish said Thursday he is confident his proposal

White's announcement was not a surprise.

He is chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and on Thursday was set to handle Louisiana's proposed $37 billion operating budget, meaning the BREC bill was sure to be a major distraction in the final two weeks of the session.

White was discussing his BREC bill 15 minutes before the Senate convened for a lengthy debates on the budget later in the day.

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The parks bill passed the Senate 28-6.

However, there was speculation for weeks that the proposal was aimed at getting the attention of BREC leaders rather than actually splitting the parks system.

BREC oversees 182 parks and other attractions and is supported primarily by property tax revenue.

It is overseen by a nine-member commission.

White repeatedly said Central and Zachary are not getting a fair shake and that both would benefit from smaller systems.

Sponsor of push to divide BREC launches billboard campaign State Sen. Bodi White launched a billboard campaign in Baton Rouge Thursday blasting BREC as part of his push to divide the parks and recreati

Wilson welcomed White's request for a citizens advisory panel to help hammer out any concerns.

He said some of the same citizens who had complaints about BREC in 2018 were in the committee room to oppose the push to divide the system.

"I believe I can have the same relationship with the senator," Wilson said.

Rep. C. Denise Marcelle, D-Baton Rouge, a member of the committee and an opponent of the bill, praised White's decision to drop the measure.

Marcelle said talking through any challenges is better than "tearing things apart."

Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome, who opposed the bill and was on hand for the gathering, said afterwards she was pleased with the outcome.

"I am extremely glad to see this compromise and I think it certainly demonstrates what can happen when people sit down at a table, have open lines of communication and work through our issues," Broome said.

"I think it is an excellent compromise and I believe that BREC is going to continue to do great things and be an even new and improved BREC."
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Its not every day that a mayor of a medium-sized city in Louisiana hears the words, Hold for the President. But that happened to Nic Hunter, mayor of Lake Charles, where President Joe Biden had visited to call for investment in both hurricane recovery and long-term infrastructure investment.

The presidents call reiterated his previous public commitment to the regions recovery.

We welcome the presidents concerns about southwestern Louisianas difficult path since devastating back-to-back hurricanes in 2020. We also cannot object to his proposal, as a new hurricane season looms, that the U.S. government spend more toward preparing ahead of time for disaster response.

This is Louisiana. We understand that for many storms, there is only so much that preparation can do. When Hurricane Laura slammed southwestern Louisiana with near-record winds, preparation was of value but was not sufficient.

Louisianas delegation in Congress is working to see Bidens concerns translated into legislation  and money  for our disaster recovery. That is the kind of reaction our state needs from Washington.
Bringing together some of Australias smartest voices in tech, who just happen to be friends, Queens of The Drone Age is a welcome addition to the technology podcast scene.

NITV and SBS science and technology editor Rae Johnston is joined by Gizmodo editor Tegan Jones, Good Game Spawn Point presenter Angharad Yeo, and Mashable reporter Amanda Yeo. The idea for the series came about on one of the many hikes the friends take together, ironically, to get away from the stress of their day jobs.

Angharad Yeo, Rae Johnston, Amanda Yeo and Tegan Jones of Queens of the Drone Age.

Its a small industry, tech journalism, and from a personal level these three women are the people I turn to when I want clarification on something in the tech world that I might not be so heavily into myself, Johnston said.

We found ourselves having those kinds of tech conversations, even not in a tech or work environment, and really just thought that people should be listening to these conversations, because theyre accessible and we know our stuff.
Visitors to Wales urged to pack lateral flow test amid concerns over people travelling from Indian coronavirus variant hotspots

Visitors are being urged to pack lateral flow tests in their suitcases if they are holidaying in Wales from areas in the UK with higher rates of coronavirus.

The First Minister has asked all visitors from Covid hotspots, including areas in England with high levels of the India variant of concern, to take extra measures to help keep Wales safe.

The UK Government is asking people living in eight areas of England where the India variant of concern is concentrated  Bolton, Blackburn, Kirklees, Bedford, Burnley, Leicester, Hounslow and North Tyneside  to minimise travel out of the area.

But the advice stops short of restricting travel beyond these areas.





As Wales tourism sector prepares for late Spring bank holiday weekend and the start of the summer season, the First Minister urged travellers from all over the UK, especially the eight hotspot areas in England, to use and pack lateral flow testing kits if they are coming to Wales.

First Minister Mark Drakeford said: Our tourism businesses will be looking forward to a busy week and the start of the summer season.

I urge anyone planning a break in Wales from an area with higher rates of coronavirus, to test themselves regularly, using the free Covid-19 lateral flow tests, before they travel. Only those who have a negative test result and no symptoms of coronavirus should travel.

Everyone coming to Wales from areas with a higher prevalence of coronavirus should bring lateral flow testing kits with them to continue regular testing while on holiday  this is an additional measure to help keep Wales safe.

Lateral flow testing kits are also available locally throughout Wales.

The latest figures show there have been more than 3,200 cases of the India variant of concern identified in England. There are 57 cases in Wales.

The First Minister added: Throughout the course of the pandemic, a clear and consistent pattern in the spread of coronavirus along travel corridors has emerged. This is true within Wales; across the UK and internationally.

The virus moves with people, and people bring the virus into new areas as they move around.

Our best route out of this pandemic remains our impressive vaccination programme.

I urge everyone to continue adopting the same caution and protective behaviours we have done throughout this pandemic while we continue to vaccinate the remainder of the eligible population in Wales.
Here we go again. Victorians know the drill, but that does not make it easier. This seven-day lockdown is an abrupt reminder that every day we can go about our lives relatively free of restrictions is a good one.

For a state that was just getting its confidence back, this will be a major setback. Without the fallback of JobKeeper, the employment surge that has been driving the economic recovery is likely to take a hit. Many thousands of businesses will be shutting their doors again and for some, perhaps, it will be for the last time.

Victorias Acting Premier, James Merlino, announces the new lockdown measures. Credit:Justin McManus

A year ago, Victoria was heading towards a second wave that resulted in many deaths and a lockdown that eventually went for 112 days. This one should be different. Even before the much-anticipated announcement on Thursday, people had curtailed their movements, particularly into and around the CBD. The governments contact tracers have already called on more than 10,000 people to self-isolate. More than 40,000 people were tested for COVID-19 on Wednesday  a record.

This should make a difference. But for all the lessons learnt, there are structural problems that are not being faced. This lockdown will encourage more people to get vaccinated, and if there is a silver lining in this latest outbreak, it is that our complacency about vaccination is likely to end. Our rollout has been too slow and the foolish idea that theres no rush to get the jab because there are few cases is naive.
Just 10 metres further on, she accepted a bunch of violets from Narelle Forbes, nine, of Cowper Street, Essendon North. For the rest of her walk the Queen clung on to these first two floral tributes, content to pass back to her ladies-in-waiting the dozens more pressed on her by children from three to 16. Her Court ladies, the Marchioness of Abergavenny and Lady Susan Hussey, acted as eager sheepdogs, herding towards her little children desperate to pass their flowers (and in one case a toy koala bear) to the Queen. As she strolled with the Premier, Mr Hamer, her smile grew broader and broader and soon she was laughing openly. The questions she asked were trite, the replies nervous and stilted but the whole area was glowing with a party spirit in which the Queen basked delightedly. The Queen opens the City Square Credit:The Age Archives

Again, Melbourne had shown that although so many had said previously they would not come to see the Queen again, yet come they did in their tens of thousands. By the time she reached the City Square, the lone Australian republican flag waving fiercely in the centre of a press of Australian flags and Union Jacks had a lonely, even desperate air. Across the other side of Swanston Street, the Duke of Edinburgh was sauntering with just as much practised ease. He gave a big laugh to a group of students in hired uniforms announcing they were British Imperialists and members of a pacifist army called Alfs Imperial Army. They claimed to have staged a major flour and water battle at Melbourne University earlier in the day. As the Queen moved on towards the square, her chief police officer, Commander Mike Trestrail, was showing his artistry with the black umbrella which has become his trademark on Royal tours throughout the world. Just behind him, the Queens Private Secretary. Sir Philip Moore carried a reserve black umbrella in case Commander Trestrail might need to erect an impromptu barrier around the Queen should the crowds press forward too eagerly.

But there was not the faintest sign of this. Good humour, affection, and if love is not too hackneyed a word, then that too, washed in waves over the Queen from the Melbourne crowd. Outside the Town Hall, Mr. Hamer and his wife handed over the Royal pair to the guidance of the Lord Mayor, Cr Ralph Bernardi and Mrs Marie Bernardi. Mrs Bernardi, a vision in lavender, looked remarkably like a giant version of the violets carried by the Queen. In her speech, the Queen recalled that it was ten years ago when she and Prince Phillip made their first walkabout in Australia  in Collins Street. I still remember vividly the novelty and excitement of that occasion. Since then we have walked, talking with the people, through many cities all over the world, but nothing could be more heart-warming than to be back again among a Melbourne crowd. Loading

Officials who were on that tour a decade ago recalled yesterday that Melbourne, considered a more reserved city, was regarded as more of a risk than Sydney for a Royal walkabout. When it proved fantastically successful, the Queen was as excited as a schoolgirl. When the Queen drew back a curtain to start a giant water spillway in the square, she knew that the $23.5 million project which has taken 19 years to this stage, was still not completed. But those close to her say she is not totally cynical at the impulse of officialdom world over to polish up the world for her sake. She welcomes the raw emotion of the efforts and sees an overall good resulting in the communities she visits. So while she was fully aware that the square is complete only in the visual sense, that yesterdays whole exercise was one of improvised window-dressing, she enjoyed it all. By the time it was all over, many observers had mixed feelings.

There was the bewilderment of why it should be thought Melbourne needs more shops when it seems one quarter of those already trading are going broke; balanced against this, the square, filled for the first time with people, did seem in the Queens words: A new heart for Melbourne. As for the Queen, she was left with the problem of what to do with the mountain of flowers piled into the boot of her Rolls-Royce. An official said that after she had luncheon at Government House, they would be delivered to a hospital or some other suitable institution in the city. All those donors clever enough to have marked their posies with their name and address will receive a letter of thanks from one of the Queens ladies-in-waiting. What the Queen said This is what the Queen said yesterday when opening the City Square:

My Lord Mayor, we are delighted to be with you today in this new centre of Melbourne. It is ten years ago that we undertook our first walkabout in Australia in Collins Street and I still remember vividly the novelty and excitement of that occasion. Since then, we have walked, talking with people through many cities all over the world, but nothing could be more heart-warming than to be back again among a Melbourne crowd. Melbourne is renowned for beautiful parklands, wide streets and the contrasting architecture of the modern and an age past. This magnificent City Square is a far sighted conception and it will add a new focus to Melbourne, providing an opportunity to relax, to meet friends and to reflect on yet another illustration of Australias genius for creating a special image of her own in the 20th century.
The germs have come back was how Mandi Davidson told her daughter, Zoe, that her fifth birthday party on Sunday had to be cancelled.

Zoe was holding up well, according to Mrs Davidson. She told her friends the government said she couldnt have her party. Mrs Davidson, however, was devastated.

Like many other people across Victoria, this is the second year in a row that COVID-19 restrictions have acted as party pooper for Zoes big day. I feel awful for her, Mrs Davidson said.

Mandi Davidson with daughter Zoe, 4, who will miss out on a birthday party for the second year. Credit:Eddie Jim

Zoes been counting down the days for weeks. She had her birthday invitation list going since before Christmas.
Melbourne lord mayor Sally Capp says city businesses will be particularly hard hit by the looming lockdown in the absence of JobKeeper payments, and has called on the state government to provide direct financial support to businesses.

Melbourne lord mayor Sally Capp receiving her COVID-19 inoculation earlier this month. Credit:Instagram

The state government will reimpose lockdown restrictions starting from midnight Thursday for seven days, acting Premier James Merlino announced on Thursday morning.

Shops including supermarkets, food stores, bottle shops, banks, petrol stations and pharmacies will remain open, but gyms, hairdressers, community facilities and entertainment venues will close. Non-essential retail will be open only for click-and-collect sales.

Cafes and restaurants will be able to offer take-away only.
Small businesses have called for urgent help from the state and federal governments as Victoria heads into a seven-day lockdown with no new support provisions in place.

The hospitality, events and retail sectors were frantically responding to the new rules on Thursday and preparing for their first lockdown without JobKeeper payments for any business.

Shannon Martinez, of Smith & Daughters, is pictured at Sidney Myer Music Bowl with stock that will no longer be eaten by Rising festival-goers over the next seven days. Credit:Eddie Jim

Acting Premier James Merlino acknowledged the next week would be tough, especially without the lifeline of JobKeeper payments, and said further announcements could be on the way.

[We] will make an assessment of what support we can provide businesses in terms of the impact, he said on Thursday.
Thousands of Victorians in their 40s have rushed to book in their Pfizer shots as an onslaught of calls to make appointments for vaccinations caused the states coronavirus hotline to temporarily crash.

As a Melbourne cluster spread to 26 people and swelled to more than 10,000 close contacts, acting Premier James Merlino announced that Victorias mass COVID-19 vaccine centres will begin administering Pfizer shots for anyone aged 40 to 49.

The vaccination centre at Melbourne Showgrounds. Credit:Eddie Jim

The Victorian government also announced a seven-day, circuit-breaker lockdown that will be in place until 11:59pm on June 3.

But the push for more Victorians to get immunised against the virus triggered a high volume of booking calls that led to a widespread outage of the states coronavirus hotline.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-26 17:18:35|Editor: huaxia

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A visitor walks past an outdoor installation at the China International Big Data Industry Expo 2021 in Guiyang, southwest China's Guizhou Province, May 26, 2021. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

GUIYANG, May 26 (Xinhua) -- An international expo on big data opened Wednesday in southwest China's Guizhou Province, showcasing cutting-edge scientific and technological innovations and achievements in the relevant area.

The ongoing three-day China International Big Data Industry Expo 2021 in the provincial capital of Guiyang has attracted 225 enterprises from home and abroad, according to the organizing committee.

Under the theme "Embrace digital intelligence, Deliver new development," this year's expo is scheduled both online and offline. The expo will witness six high-level dialogues on such topics as data security, digital services, and the digitalization of industries.

Vice Premier Liu He, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, delivered a speech via video link at the opening ceremony.

Noting the importance of big data in global scientific and technological innovation, industrial restructuring, and economic and social development, Liu said China will accelerate efforts to expand the application scenarios of big data and strengthen infrastructure construction and talent cultivation in the industry.

China will also establish and improve governance systems and regulations as well as expand international cooperation to boost the big data sector, he added.

"The big data industry has become a significant and decisive force to promote the transition of the industrial economy towards the digital economy," said Liu Liehong, vice minister of industry and information technology, at the opening ceremony.

Visitors watch exhibits on 5G intelligence at the China International Big Data Industry Expo 2021 in Guiyang, southwest China's Guizhou Province, May 26, 2021. (Xinhua/Yang Wenbin)

During the 13th Five-Year Plan period (2016-2020), the annual compound growth rate of China's big data industry exceeded 30 percent, and the industrial scale reached more than 1 trillion yuan (about 152.7 billion yuan) in 2020, the vice minister noted.

As China's leading big data pilot zone, Guizhou has witnessed rapid growth in the industry over the last few years.

Guizhou is one of the regions with the highest number of mega data centers in the world and its digital economic growth rate has ranked first in China for six consecutive years, said Shen Yiqin, Party chief of Guizhou, at the expo's opening ceremony.

Noting that companies like Apple, Huawei and Alibaba have all entered and invested in Guizhou, Vladimir Norov, Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, said at the opening ceremony that Guizhou is expected to become one of the largest data centers in the world in a few years.

The big data industry expo, the first of its kind in China, has been held in Guiyang five times since 2015. In 2019, the expo attracted over 448 enterprises from 59 countries and regions, with contracts worth nearly 100.8 billion yuan signed at the expo.

The organizers canceled the event last year due to COVID-19.

Guizhou was approved to build China's first national big data comprehensive pilot zone in 2016. It has attracted heavyweight players, including Apple, Huawei and Tencent, to establish cloud computing and big data centers as well as regional headquarters. 
London: Britains Royal Navy has denied Russian claims that one of its destroyers had been chased out of Crimean waters.

General Vladimir Kulishov, the deputy director of Russias Federal Security Service, claimed HMS Dragon, a Type 45 destroyer, flouted international maritime laws after it sailed into its territorial waters in October.

The HMS Dragon passed through waters near Crimea. Credit:UK MOD/Supplied

The FSB claimed it had ignored warnings not to enter Russian territorial waters.

General Kulishov said: The destroyer Dragon of the British Navy crossed the state border of the Russian Federation in the area of Cape Khersones in the Black Sea.
Singapore: There have been three flights from Dili to Oecusse in the past month as well as one ferry trip.

By air and sea, a judge, two sets of lawyers and a prosecutor have made their way from the East Timorese capital to the coastal enclave that borders Indonesia. They have assembled in Oecusse for a criminal trial that has divided a nation.

Now-defrocked Catholic priest Richard Daschbach, centre, is presented a cake during his 84th birthday in Dili in January. Credit:AP

The problem is the defendant - once revered American missionary and Catholic priest Richard Daschbach - hasnt shown up.

The 84-year-old is under house arrest in Dili accused of the systematic sexual abuse of girls under the age of 14 during the more than two decades he ran a shelter in the mountains near the remote village of Kutet for orphans, children of the impoverished and highlands women escaping from violence.
Singapore: Declassifying active US intelligence briefings is not something a US president does lightly but Joe Biden has done just that.

In a statement released through the White House, Biden went to the centre of a debate that has been bubbling across the Five Eyes intelligence network for more than a year.

What role did the Wuhan lab play in the outbreak of COVID-19?

US President Joe Biden has called for the report to be delivered within 90 days. Credit:AP

As of today, the US Intelligence Community has coalesced around two likely scenarios but has not reached a definitive conclusion on this question, Biden said on Thursday.
London: British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Health Secretary Matt Hancock have rejected claims by Dominic Cummings, Johnsons former top adviser, that they bungled the handling of the coronavirus pandemic causing tens of thousands of needless deaths.

Johnson said some of the commentary bore no relation to reality.

Asked if that accusation was true, Johnson said: No, I dont think so, but of course this has been an incredibly difficult series of decisions, none of which weve taken lightly.

On the defence: Prime Minister Boris Johnson visits a hospital on Thursday. Credit:Getty Images

Weve followed to the best we can, the data and the guidance that weve had.
Tech companies need to redouble their efforts to protect Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders now that the claim is gaining more credence, she added. What we have to look out for in the US is an uptick in content that criticises China, while dividing the AAPI community, she said. Mark Zuckerberg has struggled with Facebooks position on disinformation. Credit:Bloomberg Content that dehumanises Chinese people, accuses Chinese people of being responsible or somehow of knowing about the pandemic, or otherwise suggests that it was a bioweapon will grow. Companies are going to have to look for content where AAPI hate is monetised and make sure that it does not become profitable. Facebook said in a statement that the company would continue to shift its policies based on new information.

In light of ongoing investigations into the origin of COVID-19 and in consultation with public health experts, we will no longer remove the claim that COVID-19 is man-made from our apps, said spokeswoman Dani Lever. Were continuing to work with health experts to keep pace with the evolving nature of the pandemic and regularly update our policies as new facts and trends emerge. There is no place for hate on our platform and we will remove anything that breaks our rules, she added. Loading Facebook has long-defended an expansive view of free speech, but in recent years has moved further in the direction of policing, hiring tens of thousands of content moderators, publishing lengthy policies, and developing algorithms in the background that restrict the content people can share. As the pandemic began, the company went much further, banning dozens of misleading or false claims on the grounds that they could cause imminent harm. The company bans claims that masks can give people COVID, that COVID is safer than the flu, or that the vaccines contain microchips. The company takes its guidance from the World Health Organisation and other public health agencies when deciding which claims to ban.

Former President Donald Trump was at the forefront of the narrative associated with the lab leak theory and repeatedly pushed the notion that responsibility for the virus lies with China. In the first presidential debate on September 29, Trump said the COVID-19 crisis was Chinas fault, and referred to the virus as the China plague and Kung flu. He recently said on Fox News that he had very little doubt that the virus came from a lab. Loading Even when it was being dismissed by the broader scientific community, several right-leaning outlets kept pushing the lab theory. In recent months, more mainstream scientists and the World Health Organisation have started to also raise questions and say it cannot be ruled out. Just in the last week, since the discussion of the viruss origins has been reopened, the term Wuhan Lab spiked across social media, and was frequently used in conjunction with references to Anthony Fauci, director of the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, according to the misinformation research organisation Zignal Labs. Fauci said this month that he wasnt totally convinced that the coronavirus developed naturally and that he thinks that more investigation into the origin of the virus is needed.

US calls for second probe Loading The US mission to the UN in Geneva said in a statement that the initial WHO study in the virus origins was insufficient and inconclusive. It called for what it described as a timely, transparent and evidence-based second probe to be conducted, including in China. It is critical that China provides independent experts full access to complete, original data and samples relevant to understanding the source of the virus and the early stages of the pandemic, the US statement said.
History has a knack for instilling newfound relevance into even the oldest works of art. Not that Oslo, J.T. Rogers's Tony-winning docudrama about the agreement between Israelis and the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) secretly negotiated in Oslo in 1993, is all that old (it premiered off-Broadway in 2016).

But a new film adaptation of the play, which premieres on HBO on Saturday, May 29, arrives just after a recent flare-up of violence between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, giving it fresh relevance. As recent events may renew despair in some that Israelis and Palestinians will ever find a path to peace, the film dramatizes a brief, shining moment when such a reconciliation seemed within reach.

The basis of Oslo is factual: While publicly the United States was brokering a peace deal between Israel and the PLO, Norwegian diplomatic couple Terje Rd-Larsen (played in the film by Andrew Scott) and Mona Juul (Ruth Wilson) were facilitating a series of backdoor negotiations between representatives on both sides that ultimately made an accord possible.

But since not much about what went on behind the closed doors of these discussions is known even now, Rogers's play, as he says in his introduction to the published script, is less interested in facts than in "the spirit of those real events  their craziness, fear, joy, and heartbreak." Thus, Oslo deserves to be taken as a work of speculative fiction  and on that level, years removed from its much-feted Lincoln Center off-Broadway and Broadway runs, it leaves quite a bit to be desired.

At one point in both the play and the film, Terje articulates his own "gradualist" philosophy of diplomacy, one that, in stark contrast to the more public "totalist" approach, prizes the personal above the organizational. If only Rogers's approach to the personal didn't seem so hackneyed. However real were PLO Finance Minister Ahmed Qurie (Salim Dau) and Israeli Foreign Ministry Director-General Uri Savir (Jeff Wilbusch, decked like a rock star by designer Catherine Zuber), they and many other involved parties are written and played as little more than broad, hearty types.

Salim Daw, Andrew Scott, Ruth Wilson, Jeff Wilbusch, and Rotem Keinan in Oslo

( Larry D. Horricks/HBO)

Rogers's characterizations of Terje and Mona are hardly more dimensional. Beyond Terje's desire to see his own philosophy put into action, we barely get a sense of him as a human being. Scott's performance hints at an impish side, which is quashed by the solemn tone adopted by director Bartlett Sher (who also directed the New York stage productions).

More so than in the play, Mona becomes the film's emotional center, especially as played with clear-eyed gravity by Wilson. To that end, Rogers adds one additional wartime flashback, revealed in bits throughout the film, that sketches a clearer motivation for her own investment in the success of these talks. But even that flashback  a moment in which Mona witnesses an Israeli soldier and a Palestinian suicide bomber looking into each other's eyes just before another Israeli soldier takes the Palestinian out  suggests a blandness underlying the project as a whole.

A more complex vision of "shared humanity" might have acknowledged the longstanding political and cultural resentments that have made finding peace between Israelis and Palestinians so agonizingly difficult. Instead, Rogers's vision never goes beyond cliches, like people on opposing sides bonding over food and joking about statesmen, or an Israeli and Palestinian representative discovering they both coincidentally have daughters named Maya. In Oslo, humanism is reduced to "we are one" greeting-card sentiments.

Sher tries to sell Rogers's perspective as profound, time-honored wisdom, directing the film in a slow, measured style that weighs everything down. (This does no favors to Rogers's heavy-handed attempts at irreverent humor.) Thanks in large part to cinematographer Janusz Kaminski, Oslo boasts an impressively burnished look, with the camera gliding gracefully through Michael Carlin's handsome production design. But the fact that Kaminski is a frequent collaborator with Steven Spielberg, an executive producer of this film, can't help but remind us of Spielberg's superior 2005 drama Munich, a genuinely disturbing historical drama about Israeli-Palestinian relations that puts Rogers's well-meaning Hallmark platitudes to shame.
You know that the pandemic is really turning a corner when immersive theater comes back. First out of the gate in New York City is Persou, a collaboration between playwright Camilo Quiroz-Vazquez and director Ellpetha Tsivicos (under the auspices of their company, One Whale's Tale) that invites just 20 audience members into the Cell Theatre, which has been transformed into the Temple of Aphrodite in Paphos, Cyprus. The ceremony within promises to herald the rebirth of spring, but it actually begins with a live burial, as we are all invited to add a clump of dirt on top of the woman reclined in a burlap sack in the center of the room.

That would be Persephone (Katherine Hreib), who each year winters in the underworld with her husband, Hades (not included in the proceedings...this ain't Hadestown). Like any good Greek mother, Demeter (Ionna Katsarou) cannot stand to be away from her daughter for such an extended period of time, so she beseeches the enchantress Circe (Anthoula Katsimatides) to eradicate the pain of winter forever  which, as you might imagine, comes with a catch. The audience is brought along on this little odyssey, which takes us across the Eastern Mediterranean in under 60 minutes.

The sorcery undergirding any good immersive play is the power of suggestion. You don't need to specifically tell your audience where to go and what to do if they think they are making that choice on their own. Unfortunately, Persou rarely approaches that level of magic, and the audience spends much of the show standing against the wall with hands folded, like well-behaved children in a parlor full of delicate porcelain figurines. We never quite feel as though we are part of the action, but we do our best to stay out of its way.

Vassilea Terzaki wears a mask by Zoe Batson in Persou at the Cell Theatre.

( Catharine Krebs)

This is despite Kendra Eaves's detailed and atmospheric set design, which utilizes the entirety of the Cell in ways I haven't seen before. I was instantly drawn to the incense-filled backyard, at least until Circe snarled at me and I retreated back inside. Scarlet Moreno costumes the cast in shiny reams of fabric that, if not entirely authentic, at least evoke the Hellenic world. Zoe Batson and Gamma Lister's extraordinary animal masks are the design element that most feel as though they could have actually been used in a pre-Christian religious ceremony. Megan Lang lights it all beautifully, making an empty storefront of a theater feel like a genuine Greek temple. But we are still very much outsiders in this sacred space.

Without a clear sense of rules emanating from the script or design, Tsivicos directs the audience in the role of the Queen of Cyprus. With a powerfully insistent voice and a no-nonsense gaze, she conveys the authority not so much of a queen, but a Soul Cycle instructor, deftly reconciling her audience's hunger for a mystical experience with the realities of early post-pandemic New York City. She tells us where to go, what to touch, and when to speak (in the case of male viewers, never). It's not the power of suggestion, but it gets the job done.

Circe (Anthoula Katsimatides) reigns over the backyard of the Cell Theatre in Persou.

( Catharine Krebs)

Katsarou gives the standout performance as Demeter, her husky voice and motherly melodrama feeling simultaneously divine and familiar. Most of the supporting players are not as able to thread the needle between the mythic formality of Quiroz-Vazquez's text and its feints toward contemporary sensibilities, but Katsimatides gets the closest as Circe, taking full ownership of her realm in the backyard. Lest you think she is an ungracious host, she (with the help of chef Dimitrios Manousakis) plies her guests with wine, halloumi cheese, and kalamata olives  all followed by delectably sweet loukoumia, which is not to be confused with something called "Turkish Delight" (an oxymoron on the island of Cyprus).

The whole event is made more festive by a live band. Under the direction of Tommy Kavounidis (who plays laouto and tzouras), these skilled musicians underscore every moment with lovely Cypriot music. They even play us out onto 23rd Street at the show's conclusion.

Persou is not as cathartic as it wants to be, but it offers visitors a pleasant little fable dressed up as a rite of spring. Like all good religious functions, it is really just an excuse to party. And although I felt a bit awkward when Circe conscripted me into a group dance, by the end I realized just how much I missed dancing with strangers. One Whale's Tale deserves credit for having the ambition to produce theater you can smell, taste, and touch in a time when direct human contact has become practically taboo. I hope to see more from them when they are less restrained by the CDC.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-26 18:49:36|Editor: huaxia

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People roll a piece of item washed off to the shore from the burning foreign ship X-Press Pearl at Kapungoda, outskirts of Colombo, Sri Lanka, May 26, 2021. Sri Lankan authorities said on Wednesday it is monitoring an oil spill from a burning foreign vessel near the Port of Colombo, warning that the oil spill may waft towards the Negombo lagoon in the west coast of the country. Till Wednesday noon, rescue teams from the Sri Lanka Navy and the Indian Navy were involved in joint efforts to douse the flames onboard the container ship "X-PRESS PEARL" registered under the flag of Singapore, which was carrying 1,486 containers with 25 tons of Nitric Acid and several other chemicals and cosmetics from the port of Hazira, India on May 15. (Xinhua)

COLOMBO, May 26 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lankan authorities said on Wednesday it is monitoring an oil spill from a burning foreign vessel near the Port of Colombo, warning that the oil spill may waft towards the Negombo lagoon in the west coast of the country.

Till Wednesday noon, rescue teams from the Sri Lanka Navy and the Indian Navy were involved in joint efforts to douse the flames onboard the container ship "X-PRESS PEARL" registered under the flag of Singapore, which was carrying 1,486 containers with 25 tons of Nitric Acid and several other chemicals and cosmetics from the port of Hazira, India on May 15.

Sri Lankan State Minister of Fisheries Kanchana Wijesekera said that by Tuesday evening signs of oil spills were found in the ocean near the burning vessel and the fisheries Department, the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA), the navy, the coast guard and other authorities were all working to contain the oil spill and minimize the damage to the marine environment.

Wijesekera said debris and cargo from the ship had been spotted along the beach in Negombo by local fishermen in the area and a cargo container had also been spotted early Wednesday in the same area.

The latest video footage released by the Navy showed that the vessel is still engulfed by flames and rescue teams were trying to douse the fire.

Wijesekera further said that on the instructions of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, a team of experts is working to contain and clean the oil spill and debris from the ship.

The Sri Lanka Air Force said Bell 212 helicopters had dropped 425 kgs of dry chemical powder on Wednesday morning to help extinguish the fire.

The 25 crew members onboard the vessel were all rescued by the Sri Lanka Navy on Tuesday, and two injured Indian nationals among the rescued had been sent to a hospital for treatment, according to the Navy.

The crew members of the ship are Philippine, Chinese, Indian, and Russian nationals.

On Wednesday, health authorities said one of the Indian crew members had tested positive for COVID-19.

The vessel sent out a distress call while being close to the Colombo Port on May 20. After it caught fire, the Sri Lankan Navy immediately dispatched vessels to bring the fire under control.

On Tuesday, the MEPA said that the floating toxic or poisonous materials or packages from the burning ship may reach the shores of Colombo, Negombo and nearby areas and warned people to stay away from beaches.

To douse the fire on the burning vessel, the Indian government on Tuesday deployed Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Vaibhav, ICG Dornier and Tug Water Lily, among others, to the scene. Enditem
Up for debate:

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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.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-26 23:51:21|Editor: huaxia

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Aerial photo taken on April 19, 2017 shows the pilot free trade zone in Wuhan City, capital of central China's Hubei Province. (Xinhua/Xiong Qi)

BEIJING, May 26 (Xinhua) -- China will relax rules for foreign investment, increasing its market appeal to global investors and signaling its determination to deepen opening up.

The country's Ministry of Commerce (MOC) has made public its plan for formulating regulations and laws in 2021, putting on agenda the revision of the guideline on foreign strategic investment in Chinese listed firms.

The revision seeks to "ease restrictions on foreign strategic investment, and introduce innovative supervision approaches for the sector," the MOC said in a recent online statement.

The move came as the guideline, which was issued 15 years ago, cannot satisfy the current demand of foreign investment attraction given the country's rapid development over the years.

Wang Jian, a professor at the University of International Business and Economics, said the revision was a signal to the world, indicating that China will continue its reform and opening-up policy, gradually loosen restrictions on foreign investment in listed firms, and foster a more enabling investment environment.

As the market is waiting for the upgraded guideline, a draft revision unveiled last June offered a glimpse of the upcoming rules.

The June draft lowered asset requirements for investments. It stipulated that foreign investors should either own at least 50 million U.S. dollars or manage no less than 300 million dollars of assets for market entry, compared with the current thresholds set at 100 million dollars and 500 million dollars, respectively.

It also reduced the lock-up period for foreign shareholders' stocks from three years to 12 months and removed shareholding limits of foreign strategic investment through listed firms' targeted placements.

Commenting on the lowered bar for foreign investment, Wang said it meant that apart from productive investment, China also welcomes foreign strategic investment in listed firms with open arms.

"The changes showed that China is gradually opening its equity market to the world, which is also conducive to the sound and healthy development of its stock market," Wang noted.

Opening up has been frequently brought up by China's policymakers over the years of its rapid economic growth. Despite a virus-induced economic slowdown across the world, the country's opening-up momentum remains unabated.

China has taken several major steps to open its door wider since last year: implementing the Foreign Investment Law, trimming the negative list for foreign investment and easing foreign access to the financial market.

In the country's new development blueprint, the 14th Five-Year Plan, it reiterates the commitment to promoting reform and opening up while pursuing high-quality development.

With a 4-percent growth in foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows last year, China stood out as the largest recipient of FDI in the world, according to a report from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development.

In the first four months of 2021, FDI into the Chinese mainland, in actual use, surged by 38.6 percent year on year, MOC data showed. 
Staff Reporter

Tim Gruver is a politics and public policy reporter. He is a University of Washington alum and the recipient of the 2017 Pioneer News Award for Reporting. His work has appeared in Politico, the Kitsap Daily News, and the Northwest Asian Weekly.
A Texas Department of Public Safety officer is seen on a boat while patrolling the U.S.-Mexico border, Tuesday, March 23, 2021, in Mission, Texas. A surge of migrants on the Southwest border has the Biden administration on the defensive.
More Columbia County residents need to be vaccinated before the county is allowed to move our of the states High Risk classification and see health and safety restrictions lifted.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 00:52:19|Editor: huaxia

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UNITED NATIONS, May 26 (Xinhua) -- UN Undersecretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Mark Lowcock on Wednesday warned of grave consequences of the ongoing water crisis in northeast Syria.

Reduced water levels in the Euphrates since January reached a critical point this month, he told the Security Council in a briefing.

The Tishreen dam in northeastern Aleppo governorate was receiving around 180 cubic meters of water per second, less than half of the minimum amount it takes to keep the dam operational. The low water flow prompted a partial closure, which caused electricity blackouts across northeast Syria, he said.

Tabqa dam, which lies downstream in Raqqa governorate, has been drawn on as an emergency backup. But water levels there are now 80 percent depleted. Engineers operating the Tishreen dam last week warned of a complete shutdown if water levels do not increase, he said.

Nearly 5.5 million people in Syria rely on the Euphrates and its subsidiaries for drinking water. There are about 200 water stations that pump, treat and deliver the water to those people. Those stations cannot function without electricity from the Tishreen and Tabqa dams. In addition to the water pumping stations, some 3 million people would lose their electricity if the dams shut down, as would hospitals and other vital infrastructure across the northeast, said Lowcock.

A total shutdown of the Tishreen dam could cause internal flooding and long-term damage. Wide-ranging knock-on impacts on agricultural production and public health would also be inevitable, he warned.

Crop forecasts for this year are already poor, as Syria suffers the effects of a drought. Below-average rainfall in the northeast has left wheat and barley fields reliant on irrigation, for which water is short. The northeast was previously responsible for 70 percent of Syria's wheat and barley production. If this year's crops fail, food insecurity, which is already at historic highs, will deteriorate further, he said.

Preventing a shutdown of the Tishreen and Tabqa dams requires dams in Turkey to release a minimum of 500 cubic meters of water per second. However, Turkey has been experiencing water shortages of its own, noted Lowcock. "So we would urge all concerned to find a solution that sustainably addresses the needs of everyone in the region who depends on water from the Euphrates."

There have been some reports that in the last few days the amount of water released downstream has increased. That demonstrates that a solution to this set of problems can indeed be found, he said. Enditem
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Photo: Courtesy of Maya Shanbhag Lang

I come home and take off my shoes. I wash my hands with surgical thoroughness, change into my inside clothes, and put my outside clothes straight into the hamper. Looking around, I wonder if I am okay, if the world will ever cease to feel perilous.

This is not a description of pandemic life but one of my childhood. As the daughter of South Asian immigrants, this was my daily after-school routine.

Last spring, my Asian American friends and I joked that everyones household was starting to resemble those of our childhood: the strict prohibitions, the obsessive hygiene rituals, the sharp distinction between outside and inside, and an attendant anxiety about the lack of freedom. This latter part is where the joke stopped being funny: when we realized a global pandemic shouldnt recall childhood.

Even when the pandemic is behind us  a prospect less within reach for countries like India, currently in crisis  this anxiety may linger. Part of the tragedy of America is that despite our resources, we cannot create a country where everyone feels safe. Asian American hate crimes and prejudice are only just beginning to register in the national consciousness.

My childhood anxiety is difficult to name. There is no vocabulary for it, which is part of the problem. Growing up during the 1980s in a predominantly white suburb of Long Island, I felt invisible. This was before yoga and turmeric were in vogue, before Alanis Morissette thanked India and Elizabeth Gilbert prayed there. When City of Joy came out in 1992, my family excitedly went to see it, thrilled by the prospect of a film about India. Two hours later, my parents were slouched over in defeat; the story of slums and white saviors had no connection to the India they knew. It was the first and last time we ever went to the movies.

Contrary to glorified notions of the American Dream, my parents experienced life in the States as a demotion.

There were no after-school specials about the dynamics of my family home: the abuse, the oppressive silence, the shoddy coping mechanisms of my immigrant parents. They regarded the world beyond our home with suspicion. They didnt socialize with neighbors, organize birthday parties, or host play dates. Carefree restaurant meals, leisurely vacations, partaking in American society: These were unthinkable. Its not that we never went out, but on the rare occasion we did, the experience proved so miserable that we decided it wasnt worth it. My parents decided we were better off staying at home. It was as though we were living through our own pandemic.

The threat was America. My parents anxiety took different forms. On the mildest level, they feared American culture would infect me and my brother in the virulent way culture spreads: invisibly at first, with a seemingly benign pop song or movie, and then causing rapid and full-blown alarm when, for example, I had my first boyfriend. I was forbidden from seeing him and told he would ruin my life. My socializing was confined to one or two preapproved friends: an early form of the pod.

More broadly, my parents feared what America might do to them. They experienced a powerlessness in the States that was wholly new. As Brahmins, they were treated with deference in India. Their upper-caste status gave them ready access to resources and security, privileges that members of other castes did not have. My mother was a physician, my father an engineer. Their degrees accompanied them across the ocean, but their status did not.

Contrary to glorified notions of the American Dream, my parents experienced life in the States as a demotion. They were now at the bottom of the totem pole. That the caste system is reprehensible was not something they discussed. Like most people, they enjoyed having privilege and disliked losing it.

When my mother was mugged in broad daylight in the parking lot of the hospital where she worked, dragged into a van at knifepoint by two white men, I asked her why the security guards hadnt intervened. She snorted. No one here protects us, she said. They do not even see us.

I was in the eighth grade at the time. It was the first moment I registered my parents reality as more fraught than Id imagined. My mothers paperwork listed her as an alien, the official term for an immigrant then. She told me she didnt find it offensive. It captured how she felt. The phrase melting pot made her laugh. People here dont want to melt with us, she said.

My parents had immigrated through the H-1-visa program for specialized labor, part of the long American tradition of viewing people of color through a utilitarian lens. Borders open up to Asia when workers are required (for the building of a transnational railroad, for example) but close out of racial prejudice (the Chinese Exclusion Act). In the 1923 ruling United States v. Bhagat Singh Thind, the Supreme Court voted unanimously to revoke the rights of a naturalized American citizen, a Punjabi man who had attended the University of California at Berkeley and served honorably in the U.S. military. None of it mattered. Thind and other South Asians had their rights stripped out of xenophobic fears of radicals. In the 1990s, in the run-up to Y2K, American tech companies lobbied the U.S. government to allow an enormous influx of South Asian computer programmers. After 9/11, when hate crimes against South Asians skyrocketed, they experienced the same lack of protection my mother felt in that parking lot, the turning of a blind eye.

My parents were not dreamy-eyed fools. Their plan was to work in the States for a few years to help relatives back home. They left my older Indian-born brother in the care of my maternal grandparents so they could focus on their careers. My father, one of thirteen children, had countless nephews and nieces in need of school fees. My mother, an only child, wanted to help her parents.

Their plan depended on visa renewals. As a young girl, I thought the term H-1 referred to a blood test. Why else would relatives look so worried when it was mentioned? Whenever there was good news about an H-1, everyone breathed a collective sigh of relief. I figured a green card meant one was healthy. For immigrants, paperwork is a lifeline. Children can absorb this message literally.

The reason my parents ended up staying in America was simple: me. I was an unplanned pregnancy. I learned of this only recently. People imagine anchor babies as desirable for immigrants. For my parents, it was the opposite.

While I didnt always understand my parents anxiety, occasionally I experienced a flicker of it. In my suburban elementary school, I was the only South Asian child in my year. My classmates held their noses and complained I smelled. They pantomimed applying a dot to their foreheads. I dreaded the appearance of that word in any written material, for I knew it would cause snickering and sidelong glances my way. Teachers didnt offer safety. When my fourth-grade teacher asked me to describe India, she didnt want to hear about my grandparents lovely flat or the way I was treated like a princess when I visited. She asked in a whisper if I had seen lepers.

My parents had different approaches to the loss of status living in America entailed. My father wanted a place where he still commanded authority. He turned to our household. Like a desperate dictator, he made juvenile grabs at power. He hit my brother so hard that he drew blood. He called me a worthless girl who would amount to nothing. He created elaborate rules so that he could have the satisfaction of seeing them obeyed.

Toxic masculinity is often discussed in the context of the loss of white male privilege: the downtrodden white guy who no longer sees a place for himself in society and retaliates through violence. But this phenomenon has long existed in Asian American households, where displaced men who feel devalued and emasculated try to assert their authority at home.

My mothers strategy was to tell elaborate stories of India that presented it as vastly superior to America. Her logic was simple: America was the backward place, which was why she was treated unjustly. India had elected a woman as prime minister. That will never happen here, she declared firmly. In India, public hygiene was poor, but private hygiene was excellent. Here, they have restrooms, but people do not wash their hands! she fumed.

I dont understand, I once said to my mother. Is it good that Im American, or is it bad?

She regarded me for a long moment and then said, That is a good question.

On the rare occasion that I went to a white American friends house, I was stunned by the lackadaisical ease. None of the strict rules from my house applied. Kids wore sneakers on couches, watched TV without having to ask permission, ate Oreos and potato chips, danced in the living room. It was dizzying, a nearly bacchanalian display.

What struck me most was the lack of anxiety in my friends households  not that they didnt have problems, but they could name them. They confided in me about their worries. They had seen them voiced in sitcoms and novels and magazine articles. They were on their home turf.

I didnt know how to describe what I felt. I didnt even know how to tell my friends why they couldnt come over. I only knew that my friends didnt have to follow elaborate rituals or heed strict prohibitions or listen to nationalistic propaganda in a way that meant shedding their identities. Their parents werent trying to compensate for a hostile environment by establishing alternate republics. They didnt have to perform one way inside and a different way outside. They were free.

Despite being an American by birth and a fortunate member of society, Im not sure that I have ever known such freedom. A good day in my childhood was when nothing bad happened. This put a low ceiling on happiness. My parents misery stemmed from feeling invisible. Ironically, this became my coping strategy. I hid from my father, accepted my mothers stories, took up as little space as possible. Childhood strategies are hard to shed.

Are you glad you stayed here? I once asked my mother.

I would have been happier in India, she replied. But  perhaps you will be happier here.

I live in that perhaps, a threshold of possibility, hoping for an America where I can feel at ease, stretching, taking up space, finally at home.
Batavia, NY (14020)

Today

Cloudy early, becoming mostly sunny this afternoon. High 79F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mainly clear. Low 57F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 01:08:58|Editor: huaxia

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A batch of Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccines donated by the Chinese government arrives at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, Sri Lanka, May 26, 2021 (Photo by Ajith Perera/Xinhua)

COLOMBO, May 26 (Xinhua) -- The Sri Lankan government has received another batch of Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccines donated by the Chinese government as the island country looks to vaccinate its citizens against the virus.

The vaccines which arrived at the Bandaranaike International Airport Tuesday night from Beijing were received by Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Qi Zhenhong and handed over to Sri Lanka's Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi.

This shipment of vaccines was the second batch to arrive in Sri Lanka as aid from China. In March, China donated a batch of Sinopharm vaccines to the Sri Lankan government.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Wanniarachchi thanked China for the valuable donation.

She said this donation of vaccines was extremely valuable for the island country and China was a country who had continuously assisted Sri Lanka in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ambassador Qi said COVID-19 was a common enemy and building a global community of health for all was a common goal.

"Unity and solidarity are the most powerful weapons fighting the pandemic, and vaccine sharing is the only magic solution to ultimately defeat the pandemic," he said.

Sri Lanka is facing a third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic with over 171,000 infected patients detected to date. In the past one month alone, over 50,000 people have been infected. Enditem
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RENSSELAER - Mary Ellen Murin, of Rensselaer, formerly of West Oneonta, passed away on Thursday, June 10, 2021. She was 88 years old. Mary Ellen was born in Elizabeth, New Jersey. She graduated from Linden High School, Linden, New Jersey in 1950. She attended Trenton State Teachers College i
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 01:54:03|Editor: huaxia

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A child is seen in a school at the Shati refugee camp in Gaza City, on May 23, 2021. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

by Sanaa Kamal

GAZA, May 26 (Xinhua) -- Although the fighting between Israel and Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip has ended, the pain has just begun for many Palestinians who had their homes destroyed in the 11-day conflict.

Hiba Saad, a 42-year-old Palestinian woman from the Shuja'eya neighborhood, east of Gaza city, said she and her family were forced to leave their house during the Israeli airstrikes.

"It was the most difficult night for us. My children, husband and I walked a long way to get away from death, as the Israeli aircraft carried out many raids around my house," the mother of 11 recalled.

"The only thing we wanted back then was to escape death," she said with a breaking voice.

Now, Saad and her family live in a classroom of al-Shatea primary school run by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

Saad's family is among 130 families living in the school who could not return to their destroyed and uninhabitable homes.

The family of Mohammed Ghabayen is also residing at an UNRWA facility after his home in the village of Beirut Lahia was completely destroyed.

The 32-year-old father of five said, "It was not my first time that I was forced to be displaced. In 2014, I was displaced too, where I stayed at a UNRWA school for more than 80 days due to the destruction of my house."

"Back then, things were very complicated. We had no economic or political support and the reconstruction took ages," he added.

Ibtissam Abu al-Qumbuz, from Gaza City, lives in a house of her relatives after her own house was destroyed.

"What has been the sin of these children that they need to live in homelessness, poverty and deprivation?" the 52-year-old said, referring to her kids and grandchildren that make up some 30 people.

"What crime did they commit for Israel to impose collective punishment on them?" she asked.

The displaced families expressed their fear that the reconstruction of Gaza would not be accelerated and that the miserable conditions that they lived through after the end of the 2014 conflict would be repeated.

Naji Sarhan, undersecretary of the Hamas-run ministry of public works and housing in the Gaza Strip, told Xinhua that the Israeli bombing of the coastal enclave had destroyed infrastructure including residential buildings, factories and hospitals.

It is estimated that 1,100 housing units were completely destroyed, and 900 others were partially destroyed and rendered uninhabitable.

The estimated cost of housing losses amounted to at least 150 million U.S. dollars, while losses in other sectors exceeded 400 million U.S. dollars.

However, there are many buildings and economic and agricultural facilities that have not been rebuilt in the first place since the 2014 fighting, which makes the total losses exceed 500 million U.S. dollars.

Nevertheless, Sarhan expressed optimism that the reconstruction of Gaza might occur soon. "There are many countries that have shown positive positions regarding their pledge to rebuild Gaza and we are counting on their help," he added. Enditem
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Forest City, NC (28043)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms this morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. High 82F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low around 65F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
21 State AGs Voice Opposition to Bidens Nominee for ATF Director

Attorneys General in 21 states have called on the U.S. Senate to oppose David Chipmans confirmation as director of the Department of Justices Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), citing the efforts of the presidents nominee to restrict second amendment rights.

Montanas Attorney General (AG) Austin Knudsen led 20 of his colleagues in sending a letter (pdf) to the U.S. Senate making a case against Chipmans confirmation.

The Second Amendment is the cornerstone of the Bill of Rights, the AGs wrote. It guarantees our natural God-given right to defend our lives, our families, our property, and our freedom. The confirmation of David Chipman to head the Department of Justices Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives is an attack on that right and on the millions of law-abiding gun owners across the country.

The AGs wrote that the right to bear arms in their states is more than just a hobby or sport. For those who live in rural areas, they are a part of the economy, often used to protect livestock, they said. They are also used by their constituents to hunt and protect their families if law enforcement does not arrive in time.

The AGs from Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and West Virginia joined in the effort.

This is why Mr. Chipmans past affiliation with anti-gun organizations and his extreme positions on commonly owned firearms is so concerning to us as attorneys general and why he is unfit to be confirmed as head of the ATF, wrote the group.

Chipman was an ATF special agent who monitored trafficked firearms for 25 years. He then became a senior policy advisor advocating for gun control at the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence as well as a lobbyist.

During Chipmans confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday, Republican members grilled him for his past comments and gun control advocacy.

Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) speaks in Washington on June 2, 2020. (Tom Williams/Pool/Getty Images)

Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) questioned Chipman about his aggressive and reckless opposition to legislation Lee had introduced to make it easier to buy gun silencers. Lee said there were legitimate medical reasons for gun owners to want to buy silencers to protect their hearing.

You said, The only people who benefit from this bill are gun lobbyists and criminals who want easier access to deadly weapons, Lee said, quoting Chipman. How does this reflect the careful, measured judgment of one who would be in charge of enforcing our nations gun laws?

Meanwhile, the AGs wrote that because of the important role of the ATF director, Its agents deserve a director who will inspire confidence from the people they serve. Given Mr. Chipmans history of anti-gun lobbying and political activism, Americans cannot be reasonably expected to believe he will be an unbiased enforcer of current laws.

Earlier in May, Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) also voiced his opposition to Chipmans nomination as head of the ATF during a May 20 hearing on gun control sponsored by the House Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Since Mr. Chipman left ATF in 2012, hes made his money lobbying for failed gun control policies, first for Michael Bloomberg, the for the Giffords Law Center, said ranking member Biggs. The job of the ATF director is to enforce the laws that Congress passes  not to promote failed gun policies.

Sen. Ben Sasse (R-Neb.) formally opposed Chipmans nomination in an April statement, saying that Chipman was a gun control zealot who in his former capacities undermined citizens second amendment right.

President Bidens ATF nominee, David Chipman, has a long record of embracing far-left gun controls. He wants to ban some of the most popular rifles for home defense and hes scoffed at the idea that law-abiding Americans want to protect their families, Sasse said.

The AGs concluded their letter by asking the senators to oppose Chipmans nomination, saying that they demand President Biden nominate someone who is not hostile to our rights and way of life.

Correction: The number of AGs has been corrected. The Epoch Times regrets the error.
Border Patrol agents detain illegal immigrants after they cross the Rio Grande from Mexico into Del Rio, Texas, on May 23, 2021. (Charlotte Cuthbertson/The Epoch Times)

3,166 Percent More Sex Offenders Have Been Arrested Along Border Patrol Sector in Texas

Border Patrol agents operating in the Del Rio, Texas, sector said theyve encountered significantly more convicted sex offenders who are attempting to illegally cross the U.S.Mexico border.

Since the start of fiscal year 2021, which began last October, agents have arrested 95 convicted sex offenders apprehended near the bordera 3,166 percent increase over the same time frame during the fiscal year 2020, according to a statement from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) on May 26.

Agents arrested 10 sex offenders between May 17 and May 24, shortly after they illegally crossed into the United States, the news release stated. On May 24, two Mexican nationals were arrested with prior convictions, with one having a felony conviction for lewd and lascivious molestation and the other having been convicted of lewd and lascivious acts with a childalso a felony.

The majority of these criminals were apprehended in our sectors most remote areas, attempting to avoid detection by crossing far from populated areas, Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Austin L. Skero II said. Our agents sign cutting and tracking skills were instrumental in capturing these criminals, preventing them from infiltrating our communities.

The CBP said that between May 17 and May 23, agents arrested Mexican nationals who were convicted on a number of sex offenses, including forcible sexual abuse, sexual assault of a child under 14, sexual assault of a child, sexual assault, sexual conduct with a person under 13, and a registered sexual offender.

Two nationals from Honduras were arrested who had felony convictions for statutory rape and second-degree sexual assault of a child, according to Border Patrol.

On May 26, agents assigned to the El Centro, California, sector arrested three individuals who crossed into the United States illegally, each of whom were convicted previously on sex offenses.

During processing agents discovered that all three men, undocumented individuals, were previously convicted for a sex crime, the CBP stated.

They were previously removed from the United States by an immigration judge, the agency said.

Agents in El Centro have arrested 27 individuals who were either wanted or convicted on sexual offense charges, according to the agency.

President Joe Bidens administration has come under bipartisan fire in recent weeks for what critics have said is a failure to handle the border crisis.

According to data from the CBP, agents witnessed more than 178,000 attempted illegal crossings in April. Meanwhile, a wave of unaccompanied children attempting to cross the border has prompted the administration to open up new Border Patrol and Department of Health and Human Services facilities to house them.
4th Circuit Court Dismisses Challenge to Federal Bump Stock Ban

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit on Thursday dismissed a challenge to the federal ban on bump stocks, which are designed to help make semi-automatic firearms behave more like fully automatic ones.

When attached to a semi-automatic firearm, a bump stock uses the weapons recoil energy after a shot is fired to bump the trigger back and forth against the shooters stationary finger, increasing the rate of fire. In October 2017, a gunman using semiautomatic rifles with bump stocks killed 58 people in Las Vegas, prompting the Trump administration to impose the following year a ban on those devices.

Specifically, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) reinterpreted the term machinegun, so that a 1986 ban on parts used to convert an otherwise legal firearm into an illegal machinegun now also covers bump stocks and attachments alike. The move effectively prohibits individuals from owning or selling bump stocks, and requires anyone who owns one to destroy it or turn it over to a local ATF office.

Daniel Patrick, a bump stock owner from North Carolina, filed a lawsuit in 2019 against former Acting U.S. Attorney General Matthew Whitaker, who first issued the ban. Patrick alleged that Whitaker was illegitimately designated to his post by President Donald Trump, and therefore, didnt have the authority to issue any rule, including the bump stock ban that was eventually ratified by his successor, William Barr.

In a May 27 ruling (pdf), a panel of three judges for the Fourth Circuit dismissed Patricks complaint, saying that his arguments are invalid because he specifically sought to challenge Whitakers version of the bump stock ban, which is no longer relevant.

Patrick explicitly elected not to challenge the current version of the Rule or Attorney General Barrs act of ratification, the court said, adding that the alleged illegitimate appointment of Whitaker has already become irrelevant to the case when Barr took office.

The court also said Patrick failed to show that he would suffer an actual injury as result of being forced to surrender his bump stock to the AFT.

First, Patricks asserted injury, being required to surrender his bump-stock device to federal authorities, is not redressable because he did not challenge Attorney General Barrs later ratification of the Rule, the judges opinion reads. Second, Patricks additional claim, in which he challenges the Executive Branchs alleged ongoing policy of improperly appointing agency officers, is too speculative to constitute the assertion of a concrete and particularized injury.

The Fourth Circuits decision comes weeks after the U.S. Supreme Court declined to take up a challenge against the bump stock ban within the state of Maryland, which preceded the Trump administrations nationwide ban. The high court did not issue a reason for not revisiting the case.
A Real Head-Scratcher: Experts Weigh In on Quebecs Proposed Changes to Constitution

Quebecs proposal to amend a section of Canadas Constitution as part of the provinces changes to its language laws has been supported by all leaders of Canadas major partiesmuch to the alarm of constitutional experts, who worry about implications for the federation itself.

On May 15, Quebec Premier Francois Legault announced that he had written to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to inform him of Bill 96, Quebecs strongest action to protect our language, since the passage of Law 101 in 1977. Bill 101 made French the official language of the government, courts, and workplaces in Quebec. The new legislation, Bill 96, would amend the Canadian Constitution to say that Quebec is a nation and that French is its official language.

Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages Melanie Joly issued a statement supporting the bill, adding that the protection and promotion of French is a priority for our government.

Trudeau has said Quebec can unilaterally amend part of Canadas Constitution, so long as it ensures that the rest of the Constitution, including the sections that protect linguistic minorities, like anglophones in Quebec, continue to be respected.

These developments concern Salim Mansur, professor emeritus of political science at the University of Western Ontario.

Justin Trudeau has gone 180 degrees opposite to his father [former prime minister Pierre Trudeau], when his father stood up and fought against  a distinct society that would give Quebec a separate right to make laws for itself and the rest of Canada would operate on a separate situation, Mansur said in an interview.

Until the end of the last century, there was a definitive stand taken by the Canadian elite and the public that Canada has to be defended as a nation state, and there should be one law and one rule.

Since then, Mansur said, there has been step-by-step devolution of power to Quebec and not to the other provinces.

 I Don  t Think Canadians Understand Fully 

The bill has received the support of the Bloc Quebecois, Conservative, and NDP party leaders. This is concerning to Donald Savoie, Canada Research Chair in Public Administration and Governance at the University of Moncton, who says he finds it truly amazing that there hasnt been more of a fuss about it.

If there was an outcry in the rest of Canada, I would suspect that party leaders would take note, but because its so blase, nobody seems to be raising any concerns, Savoie told The Epoch Times.

Im flabbergasted at the lack of interest in the rest of the country in this debate.  I dont think Canadians understand fully.

A lone protest came from Calgary MP Michelle Rempel Garner who tweeted, So  by the same token, Alberta should be able to unilaterally amend Section 36 of the Constitution Act? I mean if were going to play this game lets do it up right.

Section 36 guarantees equal opportunity in economic development, something Savoie appreciates.

I think the Alberta member of Parliament has a point, he said, noting however that its a tricky road. If provinces all dart their own way at some point, whos going to speak for Canada?

My takeaway lesson is the rest of Canada is saying, weve had enough of this, were not interested, do whatever you want to do, leave us alone. Thats the sense that Im getting from the rest of Canada, which was not the case 30 to 40 years ago, Savoie added.

If theres another referendum, dont expect Atlantic Canadians, dont expect Western Canadians, to walk the streets of Montreal asking for Quebec to stay in the federation, unlike 25 years ago, he said, referring to the Quebec independence referendum of 1995.

Alberta Premier Jason Kenney welcomed the developments by pondering a provincial constitution of his own.

Alberta should emulate Quebec in the way that it has so effectively defended its interests, Kenney told the Calgary Herald. We are plotting out a longer-term strategy to build a stronger, more resilient, and more autonomous Alberta within the Constitution.

Retired judge Brian Giesbrecht, senior policy fellow for the Frontier Centre for Public Policy (FCPP), called the bill a real head-scratcher and says he expects it to be challenged in court.

Either the other provinces are going to launch some sort of case, a lawsuit, or else Im wondering if concerned individuals arent going to do it, Giesbrecht said in an interview.

In response to the legislation, Jay Hill, interim leader of the Maverick Party, wrote to Kenney and Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe asking them to pass bills to declare English as the official language in their provinces as well as declare their provinces as nations.

FCPP founder and president Peter Holle said in an interview that it was no surprise that Hill seized on Bill 96.

When I first heard of this, I said, This is like pouring gasoline on the Western separation file. If I was in Wexit or whatever, this is gold, he said.
Dr. Rebecca Elon, an esteemed geriatrician and policy expert specializing in long-term care, saw first hand what caregivers face when her husband, Dr. William Henry Adler III, was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia with motor neuron disease in 2017. (Dr. Kris Kuhn)

Aiding Her Dying Husband, a Geriatrician Learns the Toll of Caregiving

Living with emotional, physical demands of caring for a loved one gave an expert new depths of understanding

The loss of a husband, the death of a sister, and taking in an elderly mother with dementia: This has been a year like none other for Dr. Rebecca Elon.

The 66-year-old Elon has dedicated her professional life to helping older adults. But her experiences over the past year have taught her what families go through when caring for someone suffering from a serious illness as nothing has before.

Reading about caregiving of this kind was one thing. Experiencing it was entirely different, she said.

Were it not for the challenges shes faced during the coronavirus pandemic, Elon might not have learned firsthand how exhausting end-of-life care can be on both a physical and emotional levelsomething she understood only abstractly through her previous experience as a geriatrician.

And she might not have been struck by what she called the deepest lesson of the pandemic: that caregiving is a manifestation of love, and that love means being present with someoneeven when their suffering seems overwhelming.

All these experiences have been a gift, in a way: Theyve truly changed me, said Elon, who serves as a part-time associate professor at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and an adjunct associate professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.

Elons uniquely rich perspective on the pandemic is informed by her multiple roles: family caregiver, geriatrician, and policy expert specializing in long-term care.

I dont think we, as a nation, are going to make needed improvements [in long-term care] until we take responsibility for our aging mothers and fathersand do so with love and respect, she said.

Elon has been acutely aware of prejudice against older adultsand has been determined to overcome itsince she first expressed interest in geriatrics in the late 1970s.

Why in the world would you want to do that? she recalled being asked by a department chair at the Baylor College of Medicine, where she was a medical student. What can you possibly do for those [old] people?

Elon ignored the scorn and became the first geriatrics fellow at the Baylor College of Medicinelocated in Houstonin 1984. She cherished the elderly aunts and uncles she had visited every year during her childhood and was eager to focus on this new specialty, which was just being established in the United States.

Shes an extraordinary advocate for elders and families, said Dr. Kris Kuhn, a retired geriatrician and longtime friend.

In 2007, Elon was named Geriatrician of the Year by the American Geriatrics Society.

Her life took an unexpected turn in 2013, when she started noticing personality changes and judgment lapses in her husband, Dr. William Henry Adler III. Adler was a former chief of clinical immunology research at the National Institute on Aging, which is part of the federal National Institutes of Health. Proud and stubborn, he refused to seek medical attention for several years.

Eventually, however, Adlers decline accelerated. In 2017, a neurologist diagnosed frontotemporal dementia with motor neuron diseasean immobilizing condition. Two years later, Adler could barely swallow or speak and had lost the ability to climb down the stairs in their Severna Park, Maryland, home.

He became a prisoner in our upstairs bedroom, Elon said.

By then, Elon had cut back on work significantly and hired a home health aide to come into their home for several days each week.

In January 2020, Elon enrolled Adler in hospice and began arranging to move him into a nearby assisted living center. Then, the pandemic hit. Hospice staffers stopped coming. The home health aide quit. The assisted living center went on lockdown. Not visiting Adler was unimaginable, so Elon kept him at home, remaining responsible for his care.

I lost 20 pounds in four months, she said. It was incredibly demanding work, caring for him.

Meanwhile, another crisis was brewing. In Kankakee, Illinois, Elons sister, Melissa Davis, was dying of esophageal cancer and no longer able to care for their 96-year-old mother, Betty Davis. The two had lived together for more than a decade, and Davisdiagnosed with dementiarequired significant assistance.

Elon sprang into action. She, along with two of her other sisters, moved their mother into an assisted living facility in Kankakee. Elon also decided to relocate a few hours away, moving to a continuing care retirement community in Milwaukee. It was time to leave the East Coast behind and be closer to family, she said.

By the end of May, Elon and her husband were settled in a two-bedroom apartment in Milwaukee, with a balcony looking out over Lake Michigan. The facility had a restaurant downstairs that delivered meals, a concierge service, a helpful hospice agency in the area, and other amenities that relieved Elons isolation.

I finally had help, she said. It was like night and day.

Previously bedbound, Adler would transfer to a chair with the help of a liftone couldnt be installed in their Maryland homeand look contentedly out their window at paragliders and boats sailing by.

In medicine, we often look at people who are profoundly impaired and ask, What kind of quality of life is that? Elon said. But even though Bill was so profoundly impaired, he still had a strong will to live and retained the capacity for joy and interaction. If she hadnt been by his side day and night, Elon said, she might not have appreciated this.

During this time, her mother moved to an assisted living center outside Milwaukee to be nearer to Elon and other family members. But things didnt go well. The facility was on lockdown most of the time, and staff members werent especially attentive. Concerned about her mothers well-being, Elon took her out of the facility and brought her to her apartment in late December.

For two months, she tended to her husbands and mothers needs. In mid-February, Adler, then 81, took a sharp turn for the worse. Unable to speak, his face set in a grimace, he pounded the bed with his hands, breathing heavily. With the help of hospice workers, Elon began administering morphine to ease his pain and agitation.

I thought, Oh, my God, is this what we ask families to deal with? she said. Though she had been a hospice medical director, that didnt prepare me for the emotional exhaustion and the ambivalence of giving morphine to my husband.

Elons mother was distraught when Adler died 10 days later, asking repeatedly what had happened to him and weeping when she was told of his passing. At some point, Elon realized her mother was also grieving all the losses she had endured over the past year: the loss of her home and friends in Kankakee; the loss of her daughter Melissa, whod died in May; and the loss of her independence.

That, too, was a revelation made possible by being with her every day.

The dogma with people with dementia is you just stop talking about death because they cant process it, Elon said. But I think that if you repeat whats happened over and over, and you put it in context and you give them time, they can grieve and start to recover.

Mom is doing so much better with Rebecca, said Deborah Bliss, 69, Elons older sister, who lives in Plano, Texas, and who believes there are benefits for her sister as well. I think having [Mom] there after Bill died, having someone else to care for, has been a good distraction.

And so, for Elon, as for so many families across the country, a new chapter has begun, born out of harsh necessities. The days pass relatively calmly, as Elon works and she and her mother spend time together.

Mom will look out at the lake and say, Oh, my goodness, these colors are so beautiful, Elon said. When I cook, shell tell me, Its so nice to have a meal with you. When she goes to bed at night, shell say, Oh, this bed feels so wonderful. Shes happy on a moment-to-moment basis. And Im very thankful shes with me.

Were eager to hear from readers about questions youd like answered, problems youve been having with your care and advice you need in dealing with the health care system. Visit khn.org/columnists to submit your requests or tips.

Judith Graham is a contributing columnist for Kaiser Health News, which originally published this article. KHNs coverage of these topics is supported by The John A. Hartford Foundation, Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, and The SCAN Foundation.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey Signs Law Banning Curbside Voting

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey signed two laws on Wednesday for a free, fair, and highly ethical election process; one for revising the process of updating voter addresses and another to ban curbside voting.

Our freedom of speech is rooted in our ability to vote, and a strong election process is what sets our democracy apart from every other country in the world, Ivey said in a statement. I appreciate the bipartisan efforts of Rep. Allen and Rep. Scott to ensure Alabamas election process remains free, fair, and highly ethical.

Both laws take effect immediately.

Democratic State Representative Roderick Scott introduced House Bill 314 (pdf), which revises the process of updating voter address changes in a bid to improve the maintenance of voter roll integrity.

Republican Representative Wes Allen introduced House Bill 285 (pdf), which bans drive-through or curbside voting.

Proponents of curbside voting claim that the method expands voter access, especially for the elderly or disabled. Opponents argue that it opens doors to voter fraud.

A poll worker talks to people during curbside voting in Sun Prarie, Wis., on April 7, 2020. (Andy Manis/Getty Images)

The bill requires that voting machines must be installed and operated within the interior of an enclosed building designated as a voting place. It further requires that election officers or poll workers not take ballots into or out of voting places, except when performing authorized duties that include only the pre-election and post-election transporting of ballots to and from voting places as part of established election procedures.

Since taking office, we have always prioritized securing the chain of ballot custody, Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill said in a statement. By keeping the ballot in the hands of the voter, we ensure each vote is counted accurately, honestly, and independently from any poll worker or third party.

John Merrill, Secretary of State of Alabama, speaks to the media in the Capitol building, in Montgomery, Ala., on Dec. 12, 2017. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Merrill said that handicap-accessible voting machines would still be available at all polling places and absentee offices. Voters with qualifying disabilities may also apply for an absentee ballot.

During the general election last year, Merrill banned curbside voting because he thought it was illegal and led to the chain of custody is then broken.

Some voters and civil rights groups sued Merrill. A federal court ruled against him, and a circuit court upheld the order.

However, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Merrill on Oct. 21, 2020, permitting his ban of curbside voting and voter ID requirements.
Australian writer Yang Hengjun wishes Happy New Year to his Twitter followers at an unidentified location in this still image from an undated video obtained via social media. (Twitter@yanghengjun via Reuters)

Australian Ambassador Denied Entry to Beijing Trial of Writer Yang Hengjun

Australian Ambassador to China Graham Fletcher has been denied entry to the closed court trial on espionage charges of Australian writer Yang Hengjun which began in Beijing today.

Unfortunately, weve just been denied entry into the court, Fletcher told reporters outside the Beijing Second Intermediate Court on Thursday.

The CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus (novel coronavirus) pandemic was given as the reason Fletcher was denied access, and also because it was a national security case.

This is deeply regrettable, concerning, and unsatisfactory, he said.

Australian Ambassador to China Graham Fletcher (L) walks out from an entrance to the Beijing Second Intermediate Peoples Court after being refused access to the trial of Australian academic Yang Jun, also known as Yang Hengjun, on espionage charges in Beijing on May 27, 2021. (Nicolas Asfouri/AFP via Getty Images)

Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne said earlier on Thursday that she had hoped Chinas legal process would be transparent and open.

However, her department had been unable to get Beijing to provide an explanation or evidence of the espionage charges.

Were not interfering in Chinas legal system, she said. The concerns we have raised are legitimate ones but we do expect those basic international standards of justice to be met.

Meanwhile, Yang, the man at the centre of the espionage case, has said that despite his health deteriorating while in detention, he remained spiritually strong and was determined to face suffering and torture with resilience.

In a letter addressed to an unnamed person, seen by The Daily Telegraph, Yang said, There is nothing more liberating than having ones worst fears realised.

I have no fear now. I will never compromise, he added.

In this 2017 photo provided by his family, Yang Hengjun, left, poses with his family member in Beijing. (Yang Family Photo via AP)

Yang said that on the chance he would be freed, he would write articles to improve Australia-China relations and help China understand the world, and the world to understand China.

He also wrote a list of things he wished to do once he regained his freedoms.

I want to go to Australia, a heaven-like place, he said, adding he also wanted to see the green mountains and rivers in China, revisit Hong Kong, and return to the United States to continue his research at Columbia University.

The Epoch Times has not viewed the letter.

No one has been allowed to attend the closed-door trial, including family members and Australian consular officials and lawyers.

Under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations treaty, of which China is a signatory, as well as the bilateral consular agreement between Australia and China, Australian consular officials have the right to communicate with Yang and attend his trial.

Senator Marise Payne during the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Legislation Committee at Parliament House on March 24, 2021, in Canberra, Australia. (Sam Mooy/Getty Images)

Australias foreign minister has expressed her concerns about the lack of transparency in the legal process.

We have conveyed to Chinese authorities, in clear terms, the concerns we have about Yangs treatment and the lack of procedural fairness in how his case has been managed, she said.

Consistent with basic standards of justice and Chinas international legal obligations, we expect Dr Yang to be granted access to his lawyer and to Australian consular officials in advance of his trial, Payne said.

The Law Council of Australia expressed their concern for Yang and supported Paynes call on the CCP to allow Yang to access legal representation.

The right to independent legal assistance must be ensured from the moment of deprivation of liberty, and access to effective legal representation guaranteed to all persons at all stages of criminal proceedings.

This is a fundamental precondition to realising the right to a fair trial. The seriousness of the charges against Dr Yang render the protracted deprivation of legal assistance even more egregious, falling well short of international fair trial standards, Law Council President Jacoba Brasch QC said.

While Yang is likely to be convicted, given that Beijings judicial system has a near 100 percent conviction rate, he still holds hope that the CCP will right the wrongs and do me justice.

However, he said if worst comes to the worst, he wanted his friends and supporters to retain his writings.

If worse comes to worst, if someone wants to take revenge on me for my writings, please explain to the people inside China what I did, and the significance of my writing to people in China, Yang said. The values and beliefs which we shared, and which I shared with my readers, are something bigger than myself.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 02:20:17|Editor: huaxia

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UNITED NATIONS, May 26 (Xinhua) -- UN Undersecretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Mark Lowcock on Wednesday asked the Security Council to renew its authorization for the cross-border aid mechanism for Syrians.

The authorization for UN cross-border assistance into northwest Syria expires in just over six weeks. A failure to extend it would immediately end direct cross-border deliveries by the United Nations, he said.

That means food deliveries for 1.4 million people every month, millions of medical treatments, nutrition assistance for tens of thousands of children and mothers, education supplies for tens of thousands of students -- all of those things would stop, he told the Security Council in a briefing.

Other crucial support the United Nations provides to water and sanitation, to health, to camp management, and other services would also end, along with the ability of the United Nations to channel approximately 300 million U.S. dollars in annual financing for operations to local partners on the ground, he said.

The UN Monitoring Mechanism, which verifies the humanitarian nature of all UN deliveries, would shut down. The result would be a smaller, more fragmented operation of non-UN actors which would be less transparent and less accountable, he said.

Without a Security Council decision so close to the expiry of the current authorization, his team must prepare, just like last year, for a worst-case scenario. So agencies have started pre-positioning supplies on the Syrian side of the border to draw on should access from Turkey be cut, said Lowcock.

But he warned that pre-positioning can only provide a very limited, short-term buffer. And due to the low levels of funding of the operation this year, that buffer will be much smaller than it was last year.

"We want to see both more cross-line and more cross-border assistance. The cross-border operation -- which is a lifeline for more than 3 million people -- cannot be substituted. We look to this council to ensure that that lifeline is not severed," said Lowcock.

The United Nations has worked for months to find an arrangement for cross-line missions to the northwest that all parties can agree to, he said. "Consultations continue and I am now more hopeful that an agreement can be reached, at least for an initial set of conveys."

UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen, in his briefing, also asked the Security Council to reach consensus on the issue.

"Let me also stress ... the fundamental importance of full, sustained and unimpeded humanitarian access to all parts of Syria, through intensified cross-line and cross-border deliveries. As the secretary-general told the General Assembly, a large-scale cross-border response for an additional 12 months remains essential to save lives. I appeal for the members of the (Security) Council to focus on achieving consensus to that end," said Pedersen. Enditem
Acting Premier James Merlino speaks to the media on May 26, 2021 in Melbourne, Australia.(Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

Australian States Restrict Travel to Victoria Amid CCP Virus Spike

States and territories across Australia have imposed travel restrictions to Victoria following a spike in local CCP virus cases.

This comes as the Andrews government in Victoria held crisis talks on Wednesday evening to determine whether an increase in case numbers would warrant a fourth lockdown.

I want to be upfront with everyone  I cannot rule out taking some further action, Acting Premier James Merlino told reporters Wednesday morning. The next 24 hours are going to be critical.

South Australia was the first state to shutter its borders to Greater Melbourne, which came into effect 6 p.m. Wednesday. Only essential workers or those with exemptions can travel into South Australia, but must quarantine for 14 days.

So far, other states and territories have only tightened travel restrictions to Victoria.

Those travelling into New South Wales (NSW) and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) who have visited areas of concern listed by the Victorian government will be required to self-isolate for 14 days. Travellers from Greater Melbourne are required to fill out a travel declaration form.

Unless you absolutely have to go down there, just consider your options, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said on Wednesday.

In Queensland, anyone arriving from the City of Whittlesea from 1 a.m.Wednesday must go into hotel quarantine, while any travellers from Victoria must complete a border pass from 1 a.m. Thursday.

The Northern Territory has not declared Whittlesea as high-risk, essentially giving Victorians a travel pass but travellers must enter mandatory supervised quarantine if they have visited any of the exposure sites that have been stipulated by the Victorian government from Tuesday.

For Western Australia, all arrivals from Victoria from 6 p.m. Tuesday must be tested within 48 hours and self-quarantine until they return a negative result.

Tasmania has advised those who visited Whittlesea since May 6 not to travel to Tasmania. Those who have should self-isolate until they test negative, and anyone from Melbourne should monitor for symptoms.

New Zealand said on Tuesday that it will pause quarantine-free travel with Victoria for 72 hours.

Whittlesea Outbreak

On Wednesday, Victoria recorded 15 cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus. The cases were linked to the Whittlesea cluster in Melbournes north, with more than 250 primary close contacts linked to over 70 exposure sitesfrom suburban Melbourne, to Bendigo and Cohuna in northern Victoria.

In response, the federal government promised additional support for Victoria including 130,000 extra doses of the Astra Zeneca vaccine.

Genomic sequencing showed the outbreak is linked to a Wollert man who contracted COVID-19 in South Australian quarantine earlier this month.

The man, in his 60s, could be the possible source case of the Whittlesea outbreak, although a definitive link is yet to be established.

Possible Lockdown

A five-day circuit-breaker lockdown was reportedly discussed by the state government during the Wednesday evening crisis talks, according to News Corp. But other optionssuch as harsher restrictionswere reportedly being considered as an alternative to a lockdown.

If everyone who is linked to an exposure site follows the advice of our public health experts, and if we keep following the chain of transmission, then we can run this down, Merlino said Wednesday morning.

The location of current casesrather than the numberscould trigger a potential lockdown, News Corp reported.

Victoria last entered a five-day circuit breaker lockdown in February, when the virus escaped hotel quarantine and infected 13 people.

Meanwhile, the opposition has urged the state government to spare regional Victoria if a lockdown is declared.

The government needs to get on top of this and get on top of it very quickly, opposition leader Michael OBrien said on Wednesday.

The government (has) to learn the lessons of this stuff-ups in the past and fix it for now because we cannot afford another lockdown.

In response, Merlino said the government would follow advice from public health experts, rather than any advice, any commentary from the opposition.

Victoria reinstated restrictions from 6 p.m. Tuesday in response to the Whittlesea outbreak. Currently, those in Greater Melbourne must wear a face mask in doors. Private home gatherings are limited to five visitors per day, while public gatherings have been reduced to 30.

The Victorian Labor government has not yet ruled out a snap lockdown.

About 10 new cases were confirmed overnight, bringing the cluster total to up to 25.

AAP contributed to this report
A laboratory technician works on samples from people to be tested for the new coronavirus at "Fire Eye" laboratory in Wuhan in China's central Hubei Province on Feb. 6, 2020. (STR/AFP via Getty Images)

Australias Foreign Minister Backs Bidens Push for New Wuhan Probe

Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne has welcomed the White Houses call for a renewed investigation into the origins of COVID-19, the disease caused by the CCP virus.

Having led the call for an investigation over a year ago, and drawing the ire of Beijing along the way, Payne said U.S. President Joe Bidens statement was a welcome one.

We have been consistent about the need to identify the origins to ensure that a pandemic doesnt happen again and to ensure that we are all better prepared, Payne told ABC Radio on May 27.

She acknowledged the existing report into how the pandemic became a global crisis, by the Independent Panel, but hopes a new investigation will be timely, transparent, and evidence-based.

This comes after U.S. President Joe Biden on May 26 announced that the U.S. Intelligence Community (IC) had been given 90 days to collect and analyze information about the origins of COVID-19, including whether it originated as a lab accident or by human contact with animalswhich an initial report he received earlier this month indicated were the two likely scenarios.

I have asked the Intelligence Community to keep Congress fully apprised of its work, Biden said.

He also said the United States would keep working with like-minded partners around the world to press China to participate in a full, transparent, evidence-based international investigation and to provide access to all relevant data and evidence.

This comes after the two prominent U.S. medical authorities, the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), led by Dr. Anthony Fauci, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), led by Dr. Rochelle Walensky, have indicated their consideration of the lab-leak theory.

Fauci told PolitiFact on May 11 that he is now not convinced that COVID-19 developed naturally, while Walensky said in testimony to the Senate on May 19 that it certainly was one possibility that the CCP virus could have originated in a laboratory.

The lab-leak theory was pursued by the former U.S. administration, with Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Calif.), the ranking member of the Congresss Intelligence Committee, stating on May 19 that there was overwhelming circumstantial evidence to support the idea the virus may have emerged from a leak at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV).

By contrast, little circumstantial evidence has emerged to support the PRCs claim that COVID-19 was a natural occurrence, having jumped from some other species to humans, Nunes said, using the acronym for Chinas formal name, the Peoples Republic of China.

The pivot to push for a fresh investigation that includes a lab-leak theory comes after the Wall Street Journal released an article on May 23 that discussed an undisclosed U.S. intelligence report that alleges three researchers at the WIV sought hospital care with COVID-19-like symptoms in November 2019just one month before the CCP claims patient zero presented for care.

The Chinese regime has denied there is any truth in the Journals report. Instead, CCP foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian claimed the U.S. had released the CCP virus from Fort Detrick military base in Maryland, repeating a previous allegation that the novel coronavirus had come out of America.
Jamie Dimon, chief executive officer of JPMorgan Chase & Co., speaks during a House Financial Services Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington on April 10, 2019. (Alex Wroblewski/Getty Images)

Bank CEOs Oppose Proposed Tax Hikes, Calling Them A Mistake

WASHINGTONThe chief executives of Americas largest banks criticized President Joe Bidens plans to raise taxes on corporations, saying that the increased tax rate would make U.S. businesses less competitive globally.

The CEOs of JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citigroup, Goldman Sachs, and Morgan Stanley testified virtually on May 27 before the House Financial Services Committee. During the hearing, the bankers questioned the merits of the increase in the corporate tax rate included in the presidents American Jobs Plan, a $2.3 trillion infrastructure proposal.

To pay for his spending package, Biden has proposed to raise the corporate tax rate to 28 percent from the current rate of 21 percent, a level that would put it above global peers.

That would be a mistake for America, said Jamie Dimon, JPMorgan Chase CEO.

The proposed corporate tax increase, he argued, would be four times larger than the tax cuts of 2017, which reduced the top corporate tax rate to 21 percent from 35 percent.

The tax increase is actually four times what the tax decrease was in 2017, Dimon said. You all know the phrase the devil is in the details. Well, the details here are all that matter, not the top line of 28 percent.

Thatd be detrimental to a lot of companies. It will push a lot of capital overseas. That will be unfortunate, he added.

Brian Moynihan, CEO of Bank of America, echoed the same concerns. He said small and medium-sized businesses are worried that tax increases would pare their ability to invest in employees and new equipment, reducing their competitiveness.

Small businesses are suppliers of large companies, he noted, so most large corporations also will see upward price pressures coming from their supply chains.

Tax increases would also lead large corporations to have to put more capital available outside the United States, he said.

All six bank CEOs said that their businesses also would be less competitive globally with any new tax increases.

During the virtual hearing, Democratic lawmakers criticized CEOs for excessive overdraft fees, discriminatory lending practices, as well as large executive compensations. Bankers also were questioned about their racial equity programs.

Im concerned that the institutions led by our witnesses raked in billions in overdraft fees during the pandemic, at a time when so many individuals and families across the country are struggling to no fault of their own, Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), chairwoman of the House Financial Services Committee, said in her opening remarks.

Waters criticized banks for prioritizing wealthier clients for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, while processing loans for smaller businesses at a much slower rate or, in some cases, turning them away.

Republican lawmakers denounced the bankers for engaging in political activism and appeasing the woke left.

There was silence during the hearing when Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-Mich.) asked whether the banks had business operations or clients in Taiwan.

I am curious, Huizenga asked, whether youre banking in Taiwan or are you going to John Cena yourselves? Huizenga was referring to the Fast & Furious actor who recently apologized on social media for calling Taiwan a country.

CEOs also had tense exchanges with Republican lawmakers when asked about their China businesses.

We operate in over 100 countries, and we operate under the law of the land in each of those countries, Dimon said, speaking over Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-Mo.).

We follow the foreign policy of the United States of America, which is your policies, Dimon added. And if you tell us not to [do business with China] we dontlike Cuba, how we do business in Russiawe follow exactly what you tell us to do. Were patriots just like the rest of you in this call.
A China Daily newspaper box is with other free daily papers in New York on Jan. 20, 2021. (Chung I Ho/The Epoch Times)

Beijings Propaganda Arm Continues Paying Millions to Spread Influence in the West

The Chinese Communist Partys (CCPs) propaganda mouthpiece has continued to pour millions of dollars into U.S. publications to spread its influence, a new document filed with the Department of Justice has shown.

China Daily, an English-language media outlet controlled by Beijings propaganda department, spent roughly $3 million on major Western outlets and publishing agencies over the past six months, according to a filing (pdf) dated May 24.

Approximately $1.6 million in advertising dollars went to the Los Angeles Times, Foreign Policy, Financial Times, and Time Magazine. An additional sum of $329,898 went to The Globe and Mail, a Canadian newspaper.

China Daily also disbursed more than $1 million, a majority of which was spent in the United States, to have its newspaper printed. Notable recipients of the disbursements include the Los Angeles Times, The Boston Globe, The Seattle Times, Chicago Tribune, and The Houston Chronicle.

The overall spending for printing, advertising, and other expenses totaled $5.56 million between Nov. 1, 2020, and April 30, marking a jump of roughly $1.1 million compared to half a year earlier.

The Chinese newspaper registered as a foreign agent under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) in 1983. Under the law, it must submit a report twice a year to the Justice Department detailing its spending inside the United States.

China Daily was also one of more than a dozen Chinese state-run media entities that the State Department designated as foreign missions of the CCP last year, requiring them to register their employees and U.S. properties.

China Daily continues to spread Chinese propaganda throughout the United States. This CCP-backed newspaper should be fully investigated by the DOJ for FARA violations, Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) told The Epoch Times.

Calculations by the Center for Responsive Politics, a Washington-based government transparency group, revealed that Chinese foreign-agent spending in the United States has soared six-fold over the past few years, from just over $10 million in 2016 to almost $64 million in 2020.

Rep. Jim Banks (R-Ind.), noting the Chinese outlets activity, said China Dailys sole purpose is to cover for the Chinese Communist Partys ongoing atrocities.

Every U.S. outlet that supports China Daily has no right to talk about human rights or democracy. They should be ashamed of their complicity, he told The Epoch Times.

A number of major U.S. outlets have ceased running advertorials from the Chinese newspaper amid growing scrutiny of Chinese propaganda influence.

The New York Times deleted hundreds of paid content items from its website after ending its relationship with China Daily, according to The Washington Free Beacon, which first reported on the FARA disclosure.

China Daily, Los Angeles Times, Foreign Policy, Financial Times, Time, The Boston Globe, The Seattle Times, Chicago Tribune, and The Houston Chronicle didnt return a request from The Epoch Times for comment.

For years, the Chinese regime has spent millions of dollars running supplements under the title of either China Watch or China Focus in major Western newspapers.

While China Watch supplements have disclaimers in small print showing that the content is produced by China Daily and not the host newspaper, it might still be misleading to average readers, international nonprofit Reporters Without Borders (RSF) said in its 2019 report, Chinas Pursuit of a New World Media Order.

The journalistic style and the tasteful layout can easily mislead the hurried or inattentive reader who trusts the overall quality of the newspaper he reads every day, RSF stated.

A newspaper consumer reads a copy of China Dailys African edition of its daily newspaper in front of a newsstand in the Kenyan capital, on Dec. 14, 2012. (Tony Karumba/AFP via Getty Images)

Reasonably enjoyable reads and well presented, these China Watch supplements are nonetheless Trojan horses that enable Beijing to insinuate its propaganda into the living rooms of elites.

The Chinese inserts in prominent Western media have drawn concerns from international rights groups. London-based Free Tibet launched a campaign last year calling on a number of Western outlets to stop hosting such content.

Free Tibet raised concern when a Tibet special section within the Los Angeles Timess China Watch supplement in November last year hailed opportunities offered by vocational training in Tibet, painting a different picture from the mass surveillance China has deployed in the region since the 1950s and the military-style training centers that experts have described as forced labor camps.

This appears to be a deliberate attempt to whitewash a report highlighting that over 500,000 Tibetans had undergone forced labor, Free Tibet said in response to the special section.

The CCP has also promoted its narratives on the countrys voluntary organ donation system in China Watch, despite evidence that the state-sanctioned practice of harvesting organs from prisoners of conscience has continued to this day.

Such advertorial content has increasingly migrated into the digital realm after years of existing in hardcopy forms to reach a wider and more targeted audience.

A recent article on Foreign Policys online China Watch criticizes the U.S. system for not being able to fix human rights violations in the United States. In another article, Chinas Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) was promoted as contributing to Asias development and global [economic] recovery. Critics have argued that BRI has put developing countries into debt traps.

Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) attempted to tackle the issue of Chinese propaganda in U.S. news outlets in February with a new billS-319which would require foreign agents to disclose prominently the foreign principal as the source of paid inserts placed in American news outlets.

It is an open secret that Beijing is waging a global propaganda war in the U.S., and American newspapers are complicit, Wicker said in a statement in February, noting that he hopes stronger disclosure requirements for foreign agents will encourage all American publications to refuse to participate in the CCPs propaganda machine.
The Supreme Court of the United States in Washington on May 7, 2019. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

Biden Administration Says SCOTUS Should Not Hear New Hampshires Objection to Nonresident Taxes

New Hampshire has no right to challenge Massachusettss allegedly unconstitutional pandemic-era policy of taxing out-of-state residents who work in their home state for employers located in Massachusetts, the Biden administration told the Supreme Court.

Billions of dollars in income taxes paid by people who worked from home during the pandemic are at stake in this case, and conceivably in other states such as New York that tax nonresident income.

The Biden administration was responding after the high court asked for its view of a lawsuit brought by New Hampshire last fall. Invoking the high courts original jurisdiction to adjudicate disputes between the states, New Hampshire v. Massachusetts, court file No. 220154, was initiated by a bill of complaint on Oct. 19, 2020.

According to New Hampshire, the Massachusetts tax rule goes against New Hampshires state sovereignty, its residents economic interests, and runs afoul of the U.S. Constitutions commerce clause and the 14th Amendments due process clause. New Hampshire asks the court for an injunction preventing Massachusetts from enforcing the rule and requiring it to refund all funds collected under it.

Fourteen states filed a friend-of-the-court brief in support of New Hampshires position. Those states are Arkansas, Connecticut, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas, and Utah.

In the bill of complaint, which the Supreme Court has yet to agree to consider, New Hampshire accuses Massachusetts of a direct attack on a defining feature of the State of New Hampshires sovereignty.

Acting U.S. Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar said New Hampshire lacks a valid complaint.

Although New Hampshire might prefer that its residents not pay personal income taxes to any government, an independent tax obligation falling on a states residents generally is not an injury to that states own sovereign prerogatives, said Prelogar, the administrations top Supreme Court attorney.

Individuals often have tax obligations to multiple sovereigns, Prelogar wrote in a friend-of-the-court brief. New Hampshire has not identified any case suggesting that one States taxation of employees who reside in another State violates the sovereign interests of the other State.

New Hampshires contention that it has suffered a serious violation of its sovereignty has no limiting principle and could lead to more states suing in the Supreme Court to defend their sovereignty, she claimed.

Instead, New Hampshire should sue in the Massachusetts court system, she wrote.

The dispute arises out of a process that began when Massachusetts issued an emergency order retroactively effective March 10, 2020, near the beginning of the pandemic. Concerned about losing income tax revenue from the estimated 100,000 New Hampshire residents who, before the pandemic, commuted to work in Massachusetts, the Bay State issued an emergency tax rule requiring those individuals still employed by Massachusetts companies to continue paying income tax to Massachusetts, even though they no longer physically worked there.

The temporary rule was subsequently extended indefinitely.

This move angered New Hampshire residents and officials. Unlike its high-tax neighbor to the south, the Granite State has no state income or sales tax as part of an intentional strategy to remain economically competitive with other states.

The lawsuit by New Hampshire was launched to rectify Massachusetts unconstitutional, extraterritorial conduct, which ignores deliberate and unique policy choices that are solely New Hampshires to make, according to court papers.

Attorney Joseph D. Henchman, who filed a friend-of-the-court brief on behalf of the National Taxpayers Union Foundation, Americans for Tax Reform, and 15 other groups, told The Epoch Times that Prelogars position wasnt unexpected.

Part of the Solicitor Generals job is to advance federal interests, and its not surprising the Biden Administration doesnt see interstate tax policy as an urgent priority, he said via email.

Justices [Clarence] Thomas and [Samuel] Alito, like [former] Justice [John Paul] Stevens before them, believe that the Supreme Court should not be able to turn down cases between states (most recently last month in Texas v. California, 141 S.Ct. 1469). So we shall see if enough additional justices want to resolve this case or instead consign thousands of individual taxpayers to deal with an unfriendly Massachusetts forum.

Paul Craney of the Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance told Commonwealth magazine that Prelogars brief came as no surprise.

President [Joe] Bidens administration has continually advocated for new taxes, higher taxes, and more complex taxes. It comes as no surprise that the President is now standing shoulder to shoulder with [Massachusetts] Governor [Charlie] Baker in their quest to tax workers who have virtually no ties to the state, Craney said.
Guarulhos International Airport, in Guarulhos, near Sao Paulo, Brazil, on Dec. 3, 2020. (By Nelson Almeida/AFP via Getty Images)

Brazil Identifies Indian Coronavirus Variant in Traveler Through Sao Paulo, Rio Airports

SAO PAULOA traveler arriving in Brazil has been diagnosed with the coronavirus variant first discovered in India, Sao Paulo health officials said on Wednesday, stoking concerns that it could further fuel one of the worlds deadliest outbreaks.

Sao Paulo health authorities said they requested a complete list of the passengers on the flight coming from India, as well as the names of all airport staff and other people who may have had contact with the passenger, for monitoring and isolation.

The Indian variant of the coronavirus, known as B.1.617.2, which is rampant in India, has been detected in 10 countries of the Americas, mainly associated with international travel, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) said on Wednesday.

Cases have been detected in North, Central, and South America, as well as the Caribbean, but no community transmission has so far been associated with the variant, a PAHO official said.

Brazil has lost more than 450,000 lives to COVID-19, and has struggled to contain transmission of homegrown variants and to accelerate a sputtering vaccination campaign.

Following treatment of crew members with the B.1.617.2 variant on a cargo ship off Brazils northern coast last week, the case confirmed on Wednesday raised alarms about the easily transmissible variant passing through two of the countrys busiest airports.

The 32-year-old patient, a resident of Campos dos Goytacazes in Rio de Janeiro state, landed at Guarulhos International Airport near Sao Paulo on May 22, state officials said.

The passenger was tested on arrival for COVID-19, but by the time Sao Paulo authorities were informed of the positive result, he had flown to Rio de Janeiro, according to a statement from state officials.

Sao Paulos Adolfo Lutz Institute received the test material and announced the result of the virus sequencing on Wednesday.

Federal health regulator Anvisa said the passenger, who arrived in Brazil with a prior negative PCR test for COVID-19, had been tested at a private lab at the Guarulhos airport.

Anvisa in a statement said the passenger received a positive result for COVID-19 when he was already in Rio de Janeiro. Anvisa was informed of the positive result by the private laboratory.

Epoch Times staff contributed to this report
The BioNTech logo is seen at the building where production of the COVID-19 vaccine has started, in Marburg, Germany, on Feb. 13, 2021. (Michael Probst/AP Photo)

CCP Blocks BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccines From Taiwan, Pushes Chinese-Made Vaccines Instead

Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen has condemned the Chinese communist regime for blocking the island nations deal to obtain COVID-19 vaccines from German company BioNTech. At the same time, the regime has been pushing Chinese-made vaccines onto the island, a move described by one analyst as vaccine warfare.

The president, speaking at a meeting of Taiwans ruling Democratic Progressive Party on May 26, said that while orders for AstraZenecas and Modernas vaccines have been smoothly booked, the nation hasnt been able to obtain BioNTechs vaccine, which was co-developed with Pfizer.

As for the German BioNTech companys vaccine, we are close to completing the contract with the German factory, but due to the interference of China, we have not been able to complete it, Tsai said. This is the first time that Taiwanese officials have publicly confirmed that the CCP has blocked Taiwan from obtaining the vaccine.

BioNTech declined to comment on Tsais remarks, but asserted that the company is supportive of global vaccine supply, according to Reuters.

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) denied that it was preventing foreign companies from selling vaccines to Taiwan, and offered to provide Chinese-made vaccines to the island.

Chinese state-owned Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Co. said on May 22 that its willing to provide Taiwan with its version of the BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. Fosun and BioNTech signed an agreement to exclusively develop and sell COVID-19 vaccines using BioNTechs mRNA technology for mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan.

In response, Tsai said that Taiwan will only buy directly from the original manufacturer of the vaccine, or negotiate purchases with the manufacturer through the COVAX global vaccine sharing scheme.

Only by negotiating with the original manufacturer we can obtain the original manufacturers direct guarantee and responsibility for quality and safety, thereby avoiding legal and political risks, she said.

Vials with Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccine labels are seen in this illustration picture taken March 19, 2021. (Dado Ruvic/File Photo/Reuters)

The Chinese communist regimes Taiwan Affairs Office said that if there were no political obstacles, it wouldnt be a problem for China to donate vaccines to Taiwan. In response, Chen Shih-chung, Taiwans health minister, said at a press conference on May 26, What they are injecting to people there [in China], we dont dare to use them.

However, several pro-China politicians have pushed for the government to bring the Fosun-made vaccines in, saying the need for vaccines is now urgent in Taiwan.

Chen said that Taiwan had seen no supporting documentation about Fosuns version of the vaccine. If the company provides official documents, then they can discuss it, he said.

Chinese-made vaccines are known for their poor quality, serious side effects, and lack of transparency in trial data.

Strategy analyst Su Ziyun told the Chinese-language Epoch Times that the vaccines are temporarily in short supply in Taiwan due to a sudden surge of COVID-19 this month, and that the CCP is using this opportunity to launch vaccine warfare against the island.

Su said the CCP hopes to provoke dissatisfaction within Taiwan to divide Taiwanese society regarding vaccines and to try to interfere with Taiwans epidemic prevention. This kind of public opinion warfare will fail as soon as Taiwan solves the vaccine shortage, Su said.

Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China, is a sovereign country and an ally of the United States. However, the Chinese communist regime sees it as part of Chinas territory and has recently increased its threats toward the island nations independence and security.

Chang Yuan-chang contributed to the report.
Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot speaks during a press outside of Wrigley Field in Chicago, Ill., on April 16, 2020. (Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot Sued by White Reporter for Allegedly Refusing Interview Based on Race

A reporter with the Daily Caller and Judicial Watch sued Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot and said she refused to grant an interview based on the reporters race.

Thomas Catenacci, who is white, said he sought an interview with the Democrat mayor, who did not respond to multiple requests for an interview. Earlier this month, Lightfoot said she would give interviews to black or brown reporters to mark the second anniversary of her swearing-in.

Now, the Daily Caller News Foundation and Judicial Watch on Thursday filed a suit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, alleging the Lightfoot may have violated the First Amendment rights of the news outlet and Catenacci, as well as his right to equal protection under the 14th Amendment.

Catenacci alleged on Twitter that Lightfoot engaged in racial discrimination after she denied me an interview based on my race.

According to the suit, he attempted to interview Lightfoot about COVID-19 vaccines and other topics.

On May 20, 2021, Plaintiff Catenacci requested, by email, a one-on-one interview with Mayor Lightfoot, the lawsuit stated. Plaintiff Catenacci sent a follow-up email on May 21, 2021. He also sent a third email on May 24, 2021.

The lawsuit then stated that Lightfoots office has not responded yet to Catenaccis request nor has Mayor Lightfoot agreed to an interview with Plaintiff Catenacci. Lightfoot, the lawsuit alleged, denied the reporters request by not responding in a timely manner, and it said she is aware that Catenacci is not a journalist of color based on information and belief.

Racial discrimination has no place in America, especially in the halls of government, stated Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton. Mayor Lightfoots admitted policy of race-based discrimination is flagrantly illegal and immoral. Simply put, were asking the court to find Mayor Lightfoots racist abuse unlawful.

The Epoch Times has contacted the mayors office for comment.

Earlier this month, Lightfoot responded to claims from local reporters that she was deciding on who would be given the chance to interview her based on the reporters race or ethnicity and appeared to confirm the move.

In looking at the absence of diversity across the City Hall press corps and other newsrooms, sadly it does not appear that many of the media institutions in Chicago have caught on and truly have not embraced this moment, Lightfoot wrote to local media outlets in a letter. I have been struck since my first day on the campaign trail back in 2018 by the overwhelming whiteness and maleness of Chicago media outlets, editorial boards, the political press corps, and yes, the City Hall press corps specifically.

Her decision drew backlash from a number of local journalists, with the Chicago Tribune saying that it declined to participate in an interview with Lightfoot to object to the restrictions in recent days.

However, Lightfoot granted an interview last week to MSNBCs Stephanie Ruhle, so its not clear if the policy is permanent or applies only to local reporters.

The case is Catenacci et al v. Lightfoot, No. 1:21-cv-02852
China in Focus (May 26): Senators Debate Endless Frontier Act

Capitol Hill is debating the Endless Frontier spending bill. But one amendment has already passedblocking funding for gain-of-function virus research in Chinas Wuhan lab.

The lab leak theory resurfaces in news headlines. U.S. President Joe Biden says hes asked the intelligence community to dig deeper into the origins of the pandemic.

Chinas flood season kicks off early this year. Nearly 80 rivers in southern China have already surpassed warning levels and may soon start to overflow.

Hollywood actor John Cena is apologizing to Chinese fans after he referred to Taiwan as a country. Many Americans are accusing him of appeasing the Chinese regime for access to the Chinese market. But a Hollywood producer says that this is part of a bigger systemic issue.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more first-hand news from China.

For more news and videos, please visit our website and Twitter.
Chinese dredging vessels are purportedly seen in the waters around Fiery Cross Reef in the disputed Spratly Islands in the South China Sea, in this still image from video taken by a P-8A Poseidon surveillance aircraft provided by the United States Navy, on May 21, 2015. (U.S. Navy/Handout via Reuters/File Photo)

Chinas Sand Dredgers Are Eating Into Taiwan, Vietnam, Philippines; US Coast Guard Should Step Up

Commentary

Chinas sand dredgers have destroyed thousands of square miles of ocean floor in order to build sand islands on which they put military runways and docking facilities for submarines and aircraft carriers. The construction of a single such Chinese island, Mischief Reef (2.16 square miles) on Philippine maritime territory, affected more than 460 square miles with plumes of sediment that smothered life on the ocean floor.

This implies that the approximately 5 square miles that China created in the exclusive economic zones (EEZ) of the Philippines and Vietnam since 2013 impacted approximately 1,075 square miles of ocean floor.

But what did all those dredgers do after they completed the islands? Some of them may now be eating away at the Philippines and Taiwan, if recent reports from the Financial Times (FT) and CNN are any indication.

Some of the about 220 Chinese vessels reported by the Philippine Coast Guard, and believed to be manned by Chinese maritime militia personnel, are pictured at Whitsun Reef, South China Sea, on March 7, 2021. (Philippine Coast Guard/National Task Force-West Philippine Sea/Handout via Reuters)

When the wind is still, a deep rumbling can be heard in the Matsu islands of Taiwan, according to a May 27 Financial Times article. The rumbling is from Chinas dredgers, illegally taking sand from beneath the waves, and destroying marine habitat in the process. The Taiwan Coast Guard sometimes uses water cannons to expel them. In April alone, the Coast Guard expelled 59 illegal sand dredgers and transport vessels from around Matsu, just six miles from Chinas Fujian Province. The dredgers cut Matsus undersea telecommunication cables, including internet, six times in 2020. The 736 residents on Xiju Island lost connectivity each time.

Were the incidents a prelude to an attack from the mainland or an accident caused by neglectful marine authorities in China? Taipei was alarmed and didnt know, according to a Taiwanese official who spoke to the FT. Perhaps the incidents served as a test to see what Taiwan would do if the cables are someday cut on purpose.

One dredger, in a single day, can vacuum enough sand to fill three Olympic swimming pools and sell the haul for $55,000. But the dredging vacuums coral and living creatures, too. As a side effect of the dredging, huge plumes of underwater debris blanket and kill marine life over thousands of square miles. The living creatures down the food chain that feed fish are wiped out.

Taiwans fishermen suffer and beaches are receding, according to the FT. A local official said: Matsu used to be a fishing paradise, with waters brimming with diverse species of fish and shellfish. The dredgers have devastated the marine ecology. Our fishermen now struggle to make a living from the sea.

Beijing outlaws such environmental destruction near its own shores, pushing dredgers out to neighbors in what Su Tzu-yun at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research in Taiwan calls grey-zone tactics and psychological warfare. Taiwans Coast Guard doesnt have the capacity to enforce its own laws against Chinese ships. Of the hundreds of Chinese ships in Taiwan waters at the worst point of 2020, the Coast Guard only managed to confiscate two.

Enforcement against Chinese dredgers in Taiwans waters poses a dilemma. As explained by a Taiwan politician, Were allowing the destruction of our environment if we do nothing. Still, if we respond with military force to crack down on civilian dredgers, then it could give China a pretext to further escalate tensions in the Taiwan Strait.

Taiwan needs the muscle of the U.S. Coast Guard, backed by the U.S. Navy, if it hopes to stop Chinas marine incursions against its outlying islands.

Taiwans President Tsai Ing-wen waves to assembled guests from the deck of the Ming Chuan frigate during a ceremony to commission two Perry-class guided missile frigates from the United States into the Taiwan Navy, in the southern port of Kaohsiung on Nov. 8, 2018. (Chris Stowers/AFP/Getty Images)

Not content with Taiwan and the approximately 1,075 square miles of Philippine and Vietnamese EEZ that China already destroyed to build military bases, China is now allegedly using dredgers on Philippine rivers and coastline, and carting away black sand for use to make iron and steel. Its unclear whether Chinas dredgers have legal rights to do so.

According to Chamber of Mines Executive Director Ronald Recidoro: Lumalabas na [It appears] the contractor is helping by dredging the river, pero bakit kina-cart out yung buhangin? [but why does the contractor cart out black sand?] When you dredge, you just put it aside. He noted that currently, Manila has no oversight function on magnetite black sand mining.

Chinas black sand mining, according to a lawmaker from the Ilocos region, is massive on the Philippine coast of the South China Sea. Chinas miners are using heavy equipment to extract the mineral, and barges to ship it out of the country. The lawmaker claims that the Luzon shoreline is receding as a result.

The Philippine lawmakers want to respond with a ban on the export of raw black sand in order to support pre-processing in the Philippines that would create local jobs.

President Rodrigo Dutertes Department of Trade and Industry pointed out that such limitations could violate World Trade Organization (WTO) rules. This indicates a need for WTO rule exceptions for strategic industries such as steel, local job creation, and against aggressive countries such as China. The apparent Duterte administration acquiescence to Chinas locally destructive mining indicates that his administration is far too accommodating of China given its threat of war against the Philippines. Such appeasement might be explained by Chinas alleged corruption of the president through business deals involving his close associates.

Protesters rally against Chinas territorial claims in the South China Sea in front of the Chinese Consulate in Makati, Philippines, on July 12, 2016. The Philippines brought the case to the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague to challenge Chinas actions and claims in the South China Sea, which was ruled decisively in favor of the Philippines in July 2016. (Dondi Tawatao/Getty Images)

The Philippine people must vote Duterte out of office if they want to retake control of their sovereignty from Beijing. And, the Philippine Coast Guard, backed by the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Navy if necessary, should expel Chinas illegal occupation and dredging of Philippine maritime territory. The same goes for Chinas incursions against Vietnam and Taiwans fishing industry and beaches.

Confronting Beijing is admittedly risky, but no less is required to stop the regime from continuing its expansion. Bullying doesnt stop until someone stands up against the bully.

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.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 04:04:57|Editor: huaxia

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BRUSSELS, May 26 (Xinhua) -- An ongoing spat between the European Union (EU) and the pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca over the latter's alleged contract breach is being decided at a Brussels court on Wednesday.

The EU seeks big fines issued to AstraZeneca over an alleged breach of a contract concluded last summer, in which supplies of COVID-19 vaccines that were promised to all 27 member states failed to deliver.

During an emergency hearing, the EU accused AstraZeneca of postponing deliveries so the Anglo-Swedish company could service Britain and other countries.

If the company is found guilty, it will be forced to take certain measures to make up for delays in manufacturing and supplying vaccine doses to the bloc.

Specifically, the EU has claimed that the terms agreed in the contract have not been respected, and AstraZeneca failed to implement a viable strategy to ensure supplies of the vaccine were delivered on time in full.

According to the EU, AstraZeneca delivered only 30 million doses to the bloc in the first quarter of 2021, despite promising 300 million doses throughout 2021.

EU's lawyer Rafael Jafferali told the Brussels court that AstraZeneca expects to deliver the total number of contracted doses by the end of December, but added that "with a six-month delay, it's obviously a failure."

The debates will continue on June 4 at 2:00 p.m.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Twitter earlier on Tuesday that half of EU adults would have received their first dose of the vaccine this week, as 300 million doses are delivered, and 245 million doses administered. Enditem
A medical staff shows the Sinopharm vaccine from China during the first day vaccination against the COVID-19 at Calmette hospital in Phnom Penh, Cambodia on Feb. 10, 2021. (TANG CHHIN SOTHY/AFP via Getty Images)

Chinas Sinopharm Begins Vaccination Program in South Pacific Region

Chinas Sinopharm began rolling out its COVID-19 vaccination program in the Solomon Islands this week, amid wider concerns of Beijings vaccine diplomacy efforts and attempts to expand its hegemony in the South Pacific region.

Solomon Islands Deputy Prime Minister Manasseh Maelanga received the first jab on May 21 at a ceremony at the Central Field Hospital in the capital city of Honiara.

He said the islands were the first among Pacific nations to receive the Chinese-made vaccines and expressed gratitude to Chinese authorities. Maelangas inoculation was carried out to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine, according to the Chinese state-run media outlet Xinhua.

The efficacy of vaccines from Sinopharm, and another Chinese state-owned firm, Sinovac, have come into question, with different countries reporting wildly differing success rates.

In April, Beijing donated 50,000 vaccines to the nation, with Chinese Ambassador Li Ming saying, Solomon Islands is actually the first Pacific Island Country to receive our support with regards to COVID-19 vaccines.

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare (R) and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang inspect honor guards during a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Oct. 9, 2019. (Wang Zhao/AFP via Getty Images)

Li, who was present at the Honiara ceremony, said the rollout was an example of the mutual trust shared by Beijing and the Solomon Islands.

Sinopharm and Sinovac have delivered vaccines to more than 80 countries around the world, according to Chinese regime mouthpiece The Global Times. Beijing has also pledged to deliver 200,000 vaccines to Papua New Guinea, another Pacific nation that is struggling to contain an outbreak of the virus.

Australia, in turn, has delivered 60,000 doses of its locally made AstraZeneca vaccine to the Solomons and more than 8,000 doses to Papua New Guinea.

Beijings push to assist developing nations with vaccination efforts has sparked criticism, with French President Emmanuel Macron raising concern over the lack of transparency behind the development of its vaccines.

Low success rates with the Chinese vaccine have raised safety concerns as well; for example, Sinovacs last-stage clinical trial in Brazil had a reported efficacy of 50.4 percent, just above the 50 percent threshold set by the World Health Organization.

A health worker prepares to inoculate the Chinese-made Sinopharm vaccine to Chinese nationals living in Sri Lanka in Colombo on April 6, 2021. (Ishara S. Kodikara/AFP via Getty Images)

Gabriel Moens, emeritus professor of law at the University of Queensland and an expert in international law, says the vaccine push complements Beijings trillion-dollar infrastructure funding scheme, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI, also known as One Belt, One Road).

Even a perfunctory assessment of Sinovac diplomacy and the BRI suggests that China is motivated by its desire to expand its geopolitical footprint around the world, he wrote in an op-ed for The Epoch Times.

Meanwhile, Beijing-backed vaccination campaigns in the South Pacific come as democratic allies continue to push back against the regimes ongoing influence-building in the region.

The response from Pacific nations has varied.

Incoming Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa last week pledged to cancel a $100 million port development near the nations capital, Apia, saying the project was excessive for a country of Samoas size and economy.

Fishing boats moored near the Apia Fish Market in Apia, Samoa, on Sept. 13, 2015. (Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)

Her stance was a complete reversal from incumbent Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, who has maintained friendly relations with Beijing for his nearly two decades in power.

Daniel Suidani, provincial leader of Malaita within the Solomon Islands, has had ongoing disputes with the countrys federal leaders over his opposition to Beijing and criticism of the BRI.

China overwhelmingly targets destitute countries like the Solomon Islands that cannot pay their debts and loans. China has confiscated parts or entire seaports from countries that are unable to pay their debts, Suidani told a crowd at the provincial assembly in 2019.

In the same year, leaders from the Solomon Islands and Kiribati decided to drop diplomatic recognition of Taiwan in favor of Beijing. It was the latest step by Beijing to chip away at Taiwans international standing.
A Chinese security guard gestures outside the U.S. embassy in Beijing, China, on Sept. 12, 2020. (Greg Baker/AFP via Getty Images)

Chinese Communist Regime Accuses US Embassy of Inciting Color Revolution in China

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has accused the United States of initiating a color revolution in China after the U.S. Embassy in China posted its 2021 Public Diplomacy Grants Program, (pdf) offering up to a $30,000 grant for projects that strengthen ties between the United States and China.

According to the program, individuals, non-governmental organizations, think tanks, and academic institutions can apply for a grant to support priority areas such as: American society and values, culture, health, and language. One of the priority areas is projects that support the enhancement of U.S.-China people-to-people relations, particularly understanding of the United States among the Chinese people.

The program has somehow angered the CCP. One of its main mouthpieces, The Global Times, accused the United States of recruiting a fifth column (a group of people who undermine a larger group from within) in China, and Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian blamed the United States for staging a color revolution (attempt to destabilize a country through a precipitating event) in China.

On May 19, Zhao accused the United States of interfering in the internal affairs of other countries around the world, exerting malicious influence, and even creating color revolutions under the guise of democracy and human rights.

One has to wonder about the true intentions of the U.S. program in question, Zhao said at a routine press conference of the CCPs Foreign Ministry.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian speaks at the daily media briefing in Beijing, China, on April 8, 2020. (Greg Baker/AFP via Getty Images)

In a May 15 article, The Global Times criticized the United States for trying to root out a subversive group in China. The report quoted Li Haidong, a professor at China Foreign Affairs University, as saying that the U.S. Department of State has been instigating a plan to infiltrate China, including Hong Kong and Macau, with propaganda under the guise of public diplomacy and to provide financial support and transfer benefits to specific people or organizations under the guise of cultural activities, and even to instigate a color revolution.

The article was widely posted on many Chinese websites.

Fooling the Public is the CCPs Long-Term Strategy

In an interview with The Epoch Times, veteran Chinese media personality Huang Jinqiu said that the reason why the CCP was so angry about the program is that it could work against the CCPs long-term brainwashing.

The government has been brainwashing the people through the propaganda system for a long time. People dont have independent thinking. The CCP wants them to be foolish, weak, and slaves, Huang said.

He further said that the CCP fears that people in mainland China will learn about the real America through the projects supported by the program, and the CCPs past propaganda against the United States will be invalidated. This makes the CCP feel threatened.

After being awakened, the people may demand democratic power and votes, which is what the CCP calls a destabilizing factor. That is also why even if you have the internet, the CCP will try its best to block the information, he stressed.

Differentiating the CCP From the Chinese People

Huang said the U.S. Embassys approach is a continuation of former President Donald Trumps policy of separating the CCP from ordinary Chinese people.

The former U.S. Secretary of State Pompeo made it clear that China is not equal to the CCP, and the CCP is not equal to the Chinese people. So the Trump administration targeted the CCP while showing sympathy and support for ordinary Chinese people.

Huang said that the CCP was very furious about this differentiation: Thats why the CCP wants to tie itself with the Chinese people. If we have to die, we die together. The Party wants to transfer the suffering to the people.

Huang also said that the U.S. Embassy will not impose political indoctrination or demands on Chinese people. What it tries to do is only to provide Chinese people with a window to see the larger world, breathe the free air, and think independently.

However, the CCPs cultural exchanges are mixed with propaganda and other agendas. Huang said it can be hard to tell whether they are genuine cultural exchanges, the CCPs United Front Work, or even spying activities.
Clive Palmer Looks to Fund Craig Kelly Facebook Lawsuit Over COVID-19 Misinformation Ban

Mining magnate Clive Palmer has said he will financially back Australian Federal MP Craig Kelly in his lawsuit against Facebook after the politician was de-platformed following posts supporting alternative treatments for COVID-19.

Kelly had been completely removed from Facebook and Instagram for misinformation after sharing peer-reviewed papers by medical experts supporting hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin as a treatment for COVID-19, which is not approved in Australia.

The Member of Parliament requested the House of Representatives to launch an investigation into Facebooks actions for the breach of the Parliamentary Privileges Act 1987which was rejected, forcing Kelly to sue the social media platform independently.

The act defines an offence as: conduct (including the use of words) does not constitute an offence against a House unless it amounts, or is intended or likely to amount, to an improper interference with the free performance by a member or the members duties as a member.

Its just an appalling state of affairs that a foreign entity like Facebook would censor an Australian elected Member of Parliament, Kelly previously told The Epoch Times.

Federal MP Craig Kelly, before addressing the media over his concerns with the AstraZeneca vaccine and blood clotting during a press conference in the Mural Hall at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on Mar. 16, 2021. (Sam Mooy/Getty Images)

Kelly plans to sue for defamation and breach of contract but said the expensive lawsuit would be impossible without external help.

The cost of legal actions against a company like Facebook is beyond our legal resources, Kelly told The Epoch Times. Such a legal case would require several million dollars.

According to Kelly, Palmerbillionaire and founder of the United Australia Partyhad told him he supported his lawsuit and would be happy to bankroll the campaign.

No agreement has been struck so far, but were finalizing the details because we believe its very important that Facebook is held to account, Kelly said.

I dont want a cent out of it for myself. I just want to make sure that these principles are protected and freedom of speech is protected because we cannot have foreign corporations intimidating Australian Members of Parliament and trying to put restrictions upon what they say.

Palmer said he would also be supporting Kellys next election campaign, where the Federal MP had been forced to stand as an independent after the Australian Liberal Party disendorsed him for his stance on hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin.

In this critical time in our nations future, it is more important than ever that we have some independent leadership, and Craig Kelly is a person of great integrity, Palmer told The Australian.

Federal Leader of the United Australia Party Clive Palmer addresses the media during a press conference in Townsville on April 18, 2019. (AAP Image/Michael Chambers)

My admiration for Craig Kelly stems from the courage he has got. Courage is one of the rarest things in political life today, and it is good to see someone who has the conviction to stand up for what he believes in.

Without taking a side on any debate, in Australia, we do believe in peoples right to be able to speak up for what they think is right. It is certainly the responsibility for any member of parliament to have a conscience to fight for his electorate rather than his party, Palmer said.

Head of law at Sheridan Institute and former law reform commissioner Augusto Zimmermann said that Kelly had sufficient grounds to challenge Facebook for both defamation and breach of contract.

I think he has grounds because, in defamation, the name of the person has to be clearly expressed, Zimmermann told The Epoch Times. It was very clear that he was the target of censorship and defamation.

Zimmermann also said that Facebook could, in fact, be in breach of its contract since the takedown was under the pretext of misinformation, something he says Kelly had not done.

They are claiming that the information that he was providing is misleading when he actually was basing his comments on the reports of even some very prominent members of the medical academic profession, Zimmermann added. He was even citing articles that were subject to blind peer-review publication.

Some of Kellys posts included links to research paper aggregation websites for hydroxychloroquine has ivermectin, which combined lists hundreds of studies performed on the drugs in the treatment of COVID-19, the majority of which are peer-reviewed.

Kelly had said that Facebook provided no information regarding which posts, in particular, were in violation of their contract and defended his posts as him simply sharing the opinion of medical professionals internationally.

Im quoting a doctor or a medical specialist that has a different opinion from another doctor or medical specialist. That doesnt make it misinformation; that makes it an alternative opinion, Kelly said.

A society where Facebook are the arbiters of truth is a very dangerous society.
Colorado Becomes First State to Ban Legacy Admissions for Higher Education

Colorado on Tuesday became the first state to ban legacy admissions at public colleges and universities.

Gov. Jared Polis signed a bill (pdf) that puts an end to public higher education officials giving preference to candidates with familial relationships to alumni of an institution, arguing that the system disproportionately harms first-generation college students, people of color and those living in the country illegally.

The bill states that a state-supported institution of higher education shall not consider a legacy preference  as eligible criteria for admission standards.

Just because your parent or grandparent went to one of our colleges in Colorado, that doesnt mean that you automatically get in, Polis said in a statement. Because that could take the spot of somebody who is more worthy of that spot.

According to the language of the bill, nearly 63 percent of White students and 67 percent of middle- to high-income students enroll in a bachelors degree program right after high school in the state, compared with only 42 percent of Latino students and 47 percent of low-income students who enroll directly from high school.

There are significant racial and socioeconomic disparities among students who enroll in higher education institutions, the bill states.

Providing preferential treatment to students with familial relationships to alumni of the institution is discriminatory in nature and hurts students who are undocumented, first-generation, immigrants, or underrepresented minorities and who do not have the same relationships to Colorado higher education institutions, it says.

This bill will help move us in a direction where our higher education institutions are moving towards being meritocraciesmeaning that you have to earn admission because of who you are and what you can do and what your potential is, not who your parents or grandparents were, the Democratic governor said after signing the bill.

Several universities are considering ending their practice of legacy admissions, following behind Johns Hopkins University, which made its announcement in January 2020. Texas A&M University made the decision to abolish its legacy program in 2004.

In October 2019, California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed into law requirements for colleges to disclose whether they give preferential admissions to applicants related to donors or alumni. The bill came in response to the college admissions scandal that revealed dozens of wealthy families paid bribes to get their children into elite California universities.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
An American flag waves outside the U.S. Department of Justice Building in Washington on Dec. 15, 2020. (Al Drago/Reuters)

DOJ Releases a Portion of Memo Related to Trump Obstruction Decision

The Department of Justice (DOJ) released a portion of a legal memorandum this week that assisted then-Attorney General William Barr in his decision on whether to prosecute then-President Donald Trump for obstruction of justice during the Robert Mueller special counsel investigation.

At issue in this case was whether the DOJ could keep portions of a March 24, 2019, internal memo hidden from the public by using an exemption to the Freedom of Information Act. The federal court ordered that the memo was to be disclosed in full to the public.

The DOJ has since partially appealed U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jacksons decision, but also released the first page and one section of the disputed legal memo. The department said it would continue its efforts to keep the remainder of the document redacted.

The newly unredacted part of the memo shows how top officials at the departments Office of Legal Counsel made the argument in favor of Barr reaching a public determination on whether to prosecute Trump for obstruction of justice. The official had determined that then-special counsel Robert Mueller hadnt reached the conclusion in his report and recommended that Barr take on the endeavor.

Part of section one of the memo stated: Although the Special Counsel recognized the unfairness of levying an accusation against the President without bringing criminal charges, the Reports failure to take a position on the matters described therein might be read to imply such an accusation if the confidential report were released to the public.

In 2019, Barr announced that Mueller didnt provide sufficient evidence to support an obstruction-of-justice case.

After carefully reviewing the facts and legal theories outlined in the report, and in consultation with the Office of Legal Counsel and other department lawyers, the deputy attorney general and I concluded that the evidence developed by the special counsel is not sufficient to establish that the president committed an obstruction-of-justice offense, Barr said at a press conference.

The release of the memo came in a case brought by the nonprofit organization Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), which had filed a public records request for the information that Barr had reviewed prior to his public announcement concerning special counsel Robert Muellers report, in which he dismissed allegations that the Trump campaign had colluded with Russia in the 2016 presidential election. The nonprofit made the request after Barr announced his findings to Congress on April 18.

CREW was seeking the documents used in Barrs consultations with department lawyers regarding the decision not to charge Trump with obstruction of justice.

DOJ attorneys argued that the March 24, 2019, memo was advice and analysis provided prior to Barr making a decision on the question of whether to prosecute Trump. However, Jackson rejected the DOJs arguments, saying that, at the time Barr received the memo, the writers and he had a shared understanding over the decision not to prosecute Trump. Therefore, the document wasnt predecisional, according to the judge.

She also concluded that the memo represented strategic, as opposed to legal, advice and would fall outside the scope of the exemption.

The DOJ is disputing Jacksons conclusion about the document, arguing that the judge reached the conclusion because the department had incorrectly described the nature of the decisional process that Barr was engaged in when he referred to the memo in their filings. They added that the imprecision in its description of the decisional process is what led the court to determine that the memo shouldnt be protected by the deliberative process privilege.
A giant digital sign is seen at Facebook's corporate headquarters campus in Menlo Park, Calif., on Oct. 23, 2019. (Josh Edelson/AFP via Getty Images)

Facebook No Longer Banning Posts Suggesting COVID-19 Was Man-Made

Facebook announced on May 26 that posts pushing the hypothesis that COVID-19 is man-made will no longer be banned on the platform.

In light of ongoing investigations into the origin of COVID-19 and in consultation with public health experts, we will no longer remove the claim that COVID-19 is man-made from our apps, a Facebook spokesperson said in a statement.

Were continuing to work with health experts to keep pace with the evolving nature of the pandemic and regularly update our policies as new facts and trends emerge.

The social media company in February stated in a blog post that it would take down posts that contained what it called false information about COVID-19, the disease caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, including that COVID-19 is man-made and that experimental vaccines could be dangerous.

Facebook said at the time that it would remove accounts, pages, and groups that share the claims repeatedly.

The change in policy comes after infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci admitted that hes now not convinced that COVID-19 developed naturally, and called for a deeper investigation into its origins.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, speaks during a Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee hearing to discuss the federal response to COVID-19 in Washington on May 11, 2021. (Greg Nash-Pool/Getty Images)

Early reports about an outbreak of the CCP virus first appeared in Chinas central city of Wuhan in late 2019, when a cluster of cases was reported by state-controlled media to be linked to a local wet market. More than a year later, the origins of the virus remain unknown, although the possibility that the virus leaked from a laboratory at Chinas Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) is now receiving wider recognition.

Since Faucis admission, President Joe Biden has ordered the U.S. Intelligence Community (IC) to ramp up efforts to probe the origins of the virus.

After I became president, in March, I had my national security adviser task the Intelligence Community to prepare a report on their most up-to-date analysis of the origins of COVID-19, including whether it emerged from human contact with an infected animal or from a laboratory accident, Biden said, adding that he wanted the IC to redouble efforts to investigate the origins of the virus.

As of today, the U.S. Intelligence Community has coalesced around two likely scenarios but has not reached a definitive conclusion on this question. Here is their current position: while two elements in the IC lean toward the former scenario and one leans more toward the lattereach with low or moderate confidencethe majority of elements do not believe there is sufficient information to assess one to be more likely than the other.

The Wall Street Journal reported on May 23 that three researchers at the WIV were hospitalized in November 2019 with symptoms consistent with seasonal flu and COVID-19. The newspaper cited unnamed U.S. government sources familiar with a previously undisclosed U.S. intelligence report.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki, when asked about the matter on May 24, said that the Biden administration has repeatedly called for the WHO to support an expert-driven evaluation of the pandemics origins that is free from interference or politicization.

Now, there were phase one results that came through. We were notduring that first phase of the investigation, there was not access to data, there was not information provided. And now, were hopeful that WHO can move into a more transparent, independent phase two investigation, Psaki said.

Mimi Nguyen Ly contributed to this report.
Farmers Should Be Positive Not Fearful of Australia Deal, Says Trade Minister

A trade minister has claimed UK farmers should be positive not fearful of a proposed UK-Australia free trade agreement.

Greg Hands struck an optimistic tone in the Commons, despite fears raised by MPs on both sides of the House representing rural areas about the impact a deal could have on UK farming.

Hands said the deal would represent a major prize for the UKs newly independent trade policy, and would slash tariffs on iconic UK exportssaving business potentially around 115 million a year.

He told colleagues: This will be a great deal for the UK and our farmers will continue to thrive. The agreement is a gateway into the massive CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership) free trade area in Asia and Pacific, opening doors for our farmers into some of the biggest economies of now and the future.

Our food is among the best in the world and incredibly competitive. We should be positive, not fearful, of the opportunities that exist for our agriculture and our farmers.

Hands went on: Australian meat is high quality, produced to high standards, and arrives here in low volume. Meanwhile, Australia has some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world.

The UK accounts for just 0.15 percent of Australian beef exports and our analysis suggests any increase in imports is more likely to displace food arriving from the EU.

Any deal we strike will continue protections for our farmers, any liberalisation will be staged over time and any agreement is likely to include safeguards to defend against import surges.

However, questions were asked about the scrutiny of any deal and the possible impact on farmers and their businesses.

Earlier this week, International Trade Secretary Liz Truss said there would be a very long transition for farmers to adjust to competition from Australia under the terms of the proposed free trade deal.

Conservative Neil Hudson (Penrith and the Border) raised concerns that the deal could damage our farming sector and asked for meaningful parliamentary scrutiny.

He told the Commons: A free trade agreement between the UK and Australia is something I welcome as it can be of huge benefit to both our countries. We are the closest of friends and share so much in common.

However, I share the concerns of farmers in Cumbria and across the UK that the FTA may damage our farming sector. It is important that Parliament is able to scrutinise these FTAs, something which is not happening with this deal.

He added: Will the Government commit to meaningful parliamentary scrutiny of this agreement and act to reconstitute the Trade and Agriculture Commission immediately and also consider tariff-rate quotas as a sensible way of safeguarding this agreement?

Worries were also raised by Labours Tonia Antoniazzi (Gower).

After asking about farmers in her constituency, Hands told her there is strong buy British branding in the UK and he does not see that changing overnight as a result of a trade deal.

He told the Commons: When it comes to British beef in our supermarkets theres strong buy British branding in the UK, I dont see that changing overnight.

81 percent of beef sold in the UK has got either UK or other home nations branding and 100 percent in many of our major supermarkets. I dont see that changing as a result of any trade deal.

Shadow international trade secretary Emily Thornberry said Labour could not support a rushed through deal.

She said: Let me make clear at the outset that we support a trade deal with Australia which is designed in British interests, which will create jobs in our economy and increase our exports and growth.

What we cannot support is a deal being rushed through in time for the G7 summit without proper debate or consultation, let alone the advance scrutiny that the Government promised via the Trade and Agriculture Commission.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, on Capitol Hill in Washington on May 11, 2021. (Greg Nash/Pool/Getty Images)

Fauci and the Media Have Serious Blood on Their Hands Over COVID

Commentary

Donald Trump did many good things as president, but he didnt always choose the best people to work with or for him. Take Omarosa and The Mooch for example.

If he wins a second term, he would be well-advised to bear in mind the old expression: Flattery will get you nowhere.

But I dont blame Trump for the man who was by far the worst government functionary during his administration and right up there among the worst in American history: Dr. Anthony Fauci.

Treated by the media like some combination of Jesus, Moses, and Hippocrates, this overpaid lifetime bureaucrat was elevated to the level of soothsayer, with every word from his mouth treated as if it were settled science, even though that concept could be seen as an oxymoron by anyone with a 7th-grade education. He also contradicted himself so many times that it would take an abacus, appropriately, to keep count.

Meanwhile, the same media excoriated Donald Trump for even suggesting that the cheap and readily available hydroxychloroquine might be useful in curing the disease long ago dubbed here at The Epoch Times, with more corroboration daily, the CCP virus. (I can say congratulations to The Epoch Timesyou were one of the few places to come to for real informationbecause I had nothing to do with this.)

Indeed, what has been called Trump Derangement Syndrome now seems to be too weak a term, considering the degree it dominated even medical science itself during a pandemic. We need something stronger. Paranoid Trumpophrenia, perhaps.

Fauci became the spokesperson for those Trumpophrenics, seemingly adjusting his opinions according to their needs. Anyone who disagreed with His Majesty, no matter his or her bona fides, was ridiculed in the press and social media.

Facebook, that anti-democratic institution that pervades our lives to a frightening extent, wouldnt even publish routine questioning of the provenance of the disease until just now. It had to have come from a wet market, in the original view of Mark Zuckerberg, not a Chinese government laboratory. Fauci didnt contradict him.

The media, along with Faucis help, was so successful in its propaganda that they cowed the two most important medical journals in the English languageThe Journal of the American Academy of Medicine and the British Lancetinto claiming that the commonly used hydroxy was actually dangerous.

These esteemed journals eventuallyand sheepishlywalked this back when actual evidence appeared and they were forced to agree that hydroxy, administered early, could be helpful in treating the virus. Shame on them.

The upshot of this prevarication that affected a large number of American and foreign medical institutions was that many died who could have been saved with early treatment. Well never know how many, but its likely a substantial number.

The media were, in essence, something theyve always accused others of beingsuper spreaders.

So was Fauci.

Together, they have blood on their hands.

Of course, something was being hidden in all thissomething that was readily apparent more than a year ago to anyone paying the slightest bit of attentionand is now coming to light only after a Wall Street Journal article has told us that three employees of the Wuhan virology lab had COVID-like symptoms in November 2019.

That something was the role played by Communist China in obfuscating the source of the pandemic. That role, its increasingly likely, involved so-called gain of function research, which enables deadly viruses to become more communicable to humans, at the Wuhan lab.

Fauci had some role in whatever occurred at the Wuhan lab, which should be fully investigated and exposed. Whether it will be is another question.

Despite a superficially unified Senate asking for the intelligence from our agencies, its not yet clear whether it will ever be revealed to the necessary extent.

Something quite nefarious militates against such investigative work that few admit in public. As uncomfortable as it is to say, a powerful and significant percentage of our governmental and business elites already assumeconsciously or unconsciouslythat communist China will win its competition with the West and have already positioned themselves to cash in.

In a sense, they want the communist oligarchs to win, since its more lucrative for both groups to be working together. Have you ever wondered why Zuckerberg was so reluctant to question the source of the pandemic on Facebook? This should tell you.

Globalism isnt really globalism, but hidden China-ism.

This is a form of traitorousness unseen in historycertainly our historyand accounts for much of the behavior of those elites.

This is what Joe Biden was telling us spontaneously and candidly when he publicly stated China wasnt our enemy, only months or weeks before the constraints of a political campaign forced him to take it back.

Its what he truly believes. You dont have to have access to Hunters laptop to know that (although the evidence would be stunningly obvious and copious).

Increasingly, we live in a world that pits the people against large portions of the political class and the corporate media.

Fauci was just a leading factor.

Roger L. Simon is an award-winning novelist, Oscar-nominated screenwriter, co-founder of PJMedia, and now editor-at-large for The Epoch Times. His most recent books are The GOAT (fiction) and I Know Best: How Moral Narcissism Is Destroying Our Republic, If It Hasnt Already (nonfiction). He can be found on Parler as @rogerlsimon

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
NIAID director Dr. Anthony Fauci listens during a Senate Appropriations Labor, Health and Human Services Subcommittee hearing looking into the budget estimates for National Institute of Health and state of medical research on Capitol Hill in Washington, on May 26, 2021. (Sarah Silbiger/Pool/Getty Images)

Fauci: COVID-19 Booster Shots Will Likely Be Necessary But Timing is Unclear

Infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci said on Wednesday that Americans vaccinated against COVID-19 will most likely need a booster shot at some point in the future to guarantee continued protection but that the timing remains unclear.

I dont anticipate that the durability of the vaccine protection is going to be infiniteits just not. So, I imagine we will need, at some time, a booster. What were figuring out right now is what that interval is going to be, Fauci said during a Senate Appropriations subcommittee hearing while testifying about the state of medical research and the National Institutes of Healths budget for fiscal 2022.

Fauci said that a possible timeline for a booster is being studied by public health experts.

We know from studies following people from the original clinical trials that the protection goes out at least six months and likely a year, he later added. I believe we will need a booster. Im not exactly sure when.

Last week, the CEOs of vaccine makers Pfizer and Moderna suggested that a booster shot for COVID-19, the disease caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, may be needed roughly eight to 12 months after Americans are fully vaccinated.

People at highest risks [elderly, healthcare workers] were vaccinated in December/January. So I would do [a] September start for those at highest risk, Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel told Axios in an email.

The data that I see coming, they are supporting the notion that likely there will be a need for a booster somewhere between eight and 12 months, Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla said during an Axios event.

Fauci, the head of the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), said during the same event last week that a booster shot will almost certainly be required sometime within a year or so.

Scientists still do not know how long the COVID-19 vaccines will confer immunity, and what portion of those vaccinated do not transmit the virus, although data suggests that the vaccines should provide up to six months of immunity from at least symptomatic disease.

For people who have recovered from COVID-19, a study funded by the National Institutes of Health found that many of the participants developed a strong immunity against the disease for up to eight months after infection. Some doctors have shared on social media that they still had antibodies a year after they were infected with the CCP virus.

According to data published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Tuesday, half of American adults are now fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

President Joe Biden has set a vaccination goal of delivering at least one shot to 70 percent of adult Americans by July 4.

Several states have ramped up efforts to incentivise Americans to get vaccinated, offering cash prizes for doing so.

On Tuesday, Colorado became the latest state to roll out a lottery program to encourage residents to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

Five randomly selected Coloradans above the age of 18 who have received at least one dose of the vaccine by the end of June will be selected to win $1 million each, Gov. Jared Polis announced.

In Ohio, the COVID-19 vaccination rate surged after Gov. Mike DeWine said that five residents will win $1 million each as a monetary incentive for getting inoculated.

New York and Maryland on May 20 also announced that they will be rolling out similar vaccine incentive programs.

Meiling Lee contributed to this report.
French President Emmanuel Macron speaks after signing the visitor's book at the genocide memorial site in the capital Kigali, Rwanda, on May 27, 2021. (Muhizi Olivier/AP Photo)

Frances Macron Admits Some Guilt for Rwandas Genocide

KIGALI, RwandaIn a key speech on his visit to Rwanda, French President Emmanuel Macron said he recognizes that France bears a heavy responsibility for the 1994 genocide in the central African country.

Macron solemnly detailed how France had failed the 800,000 victims of the genocide but he stopped short of an apology.

France was not an accomplice in the genocide but ended up siding with Rwandas genocidal regime and bore an overwhelming responsibility in the slide toward the massacres, the French leader said, speaking Thursday at the genocide memorial in the capital, Kigali.

France has a role, a history, and a political responsibility in Rwanda. It has a duty: That of looking history in the face and recognizing the suffering that it inflicted on the Rwandan people by favoring silence over the examination of truth for too long, Macron said.

French President Emmanuel Macron lays a wreath at the genocide memorial site in the capital Kigali, Rwanda, on May 27, 2021. (Muhizi Olivier/AP Photo)

When the genocide started, the international community took close to three months, three interminable months, before reacting and we, all of us, abandoned hundreds of thousands of victims.

Frances failures contributed to 27 years of bitter distance between the two countries, he said.

I have to come to recognize our responsibilities, Macron said.

Although Macron didnt apologize, he won praise from Rwandan President Paul Kagame for his powerful speech.

His words were something more valuable than an apology, they were the truth, Kagame said. This was an act of tremendous courage.

Kagame and Macron both signaled that a page had been turned in France-Rwanda ties.

The skulls and bones are laid out on shelves in an underground vault as a memorial to the thousands who were killed in and around the Catholic church during the 1994 genocide in Nyamata, Rwanda, on April 4, 2014. (Ben Curtis/AP Photo)

This visit is about the future, not the past, Kagame said, adding that he and Macron discussed a range of issues, including investment and support for businesses.

Macron said they were opening a new page and rebuilding ties that are strong and irreversible. He said that he asked to be able to appoint a French ambassador to Rwanda, after six years where France has been without one in the country.

Appearing to explain his lack of apology, Macron said: A genocide cannot be excused, one lives with it.

Instead, he explained that he decided to apply the white light of truth to Frances role in the genocide and recognize its responsibilities.

This recognition is what I can give. A pardon is not mine to give, Macron said, promising beefed-up efforts to bring genocide suspects to justice.

Macron also said that hed come with 100,000 coronavirus vaccines for Rwanda.

Family photographs of some of those who died hang on display in an exhibition at the Kigali Genocide Memorial center in the capital Kigali, Rwanda, on April 5, 2019. (Ben Curtis/AP Photo)

Rwandans who had hoped for an apology said they were disappointed by Macrons speech.

We dont want to hear him talk about responsibility, about Frances role in the genocide, genocide survivor Dan Karenzi told The Associated Press. We, the survivors, wanted to hear Macron apologizing to us officially. I am really disappointed.

The opposition Rwandese Platform for Democracy party tweeted ahead of Macrons speech that it hoped he would apologize honestly and promise to pay reparations to genocide victims.

Macron arrived in Kigali early Thursday and met Kagame at the presidential residence. Macron then toured the memorial to the frenzied 1994 slaughter in which Hutu extremists killed mainly minority Tutsis and moderate Hutus who tried to protect them.

Macrons trip builds on a series of French efforts since his election in 2017 to repair ties between the two countries.

Two reports completed in March and in April that examined Frances role in the genocide helped clear a path for Macrons visit, the first by a French president in 11 years.

The previous visit, by Nicolas Sarkozy in 2010, was the first by a French leader after the 1994 massacre sent relations into a tailspin. Rwandas government and genocide survivor organizations often accused France of training and arming militias and former government troops who led the genocide.

Kagame, who has been Rwandas de facto leader since 1994 and its president since 2000, has won praise abroad for restoring order and making advances in economic development and health care. But rights watchdogs, dissidents, and others accuse Kagame of harsh rule.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 06:28:40|Editor: huaxia

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UNITED NATIONS, May 26 (Xinhua) -- The Security Council on Wednesday strongly condemned the detention of the transitional president, prime minister and other officials by elements of the defense and security forces in Mali.

The council members called for the safe, immediate and unconditional release of all the officials detained and urged the defense and security forces elements to return to their barracks without delay, said the Security Council in a press statement.

The council members reaffirmed their support to the civilian-led transition in Mali and called for its immediate resumption, leading to elections and constitutional order within the established 18-month timeline.

They called on all Malian stakeholders to prioritize building trust, engaging in dialogue and to be willing to compromise to achieve these objectives. They affirmed that imposing a change of transitional leadership by force, including through forced resignations, is unacceptable.

They noted with concern the risk of negative impact of these developments on ongoing efforts to counter terrorism, implement the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, and stabilize the central region of the country.

The council members reiterated their strong support for the mediation efforts of the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States, and called on all the Malian stakeholders to continue cooperating fully with the efforts of all partners to ensure the resumption of the civilian-led transition.

They reiterated their support for the UN peacekeeping mission in Mali in continuing to implement its mandate. They expressed their determination to continue monitoring closely the situation. Enditem
The logo of French oil giant Total at company headquarters in La Defense business district, outside Paris, on Oct. 12, 2016. (Michel Euler/AP Photo)

French Energy Giant Total Stops Payments on Burma Pipeline

BANGKOKShareholders of the French energy company Total have voted to suspend payments of dividends to stakeholders in the joint venture company running a gas pipeline in Burma, the company said Wednesday.

Pressure has been growing on companies with investments or operations linked to the Burma (also known as Myanmar) military to suspend any financial support following a Feb. 1 coup. The Yadana pipeline is partly owned by Myanmar Oil & Gas Enterprises, a government-controlled entity.

Shareholders of the Moattama Gas Transportation Co., or MGTC, which operates the Yadana pipeline, made the decision at a meeting held on May 12, Total said in a statement.

It said the decision was in response to a proposal from Total and the U.S. energy company Chevron and was taken in light of the unstable context in Myanmar.

The decision was retroactively effective from April 1, it said. All cash distributions by MGTC to its shareholders (Total (31.24 percent), Chevron (28.26 percent), PTTEP (25.5 percent) and MOGE (15 percent)) are suspended, it said. PTTEP is a Thai company.

Total is still operating the pipeline, however, keeping the supply of gas steady so as to not disrupt the electricity supply that is vital to the local populations of Myanmar and Thailand, it said. The company has said it needs to protect its workers from repercussions of any moves to suspend its operations in the country.

The human rights group Justice for Myanmar noted that the suspension of dividends represents a fraction of the funds paid to the government from the pipeline, which includes millions in taxes, royalties, and the governments share of the gas revenues.

Yadana is only one of Burmas three major offshore gas projects. The 400-kilometer (250-mile) Yadana pipeline, operated by Total Exploration & Production Myanmar, transports gas from the oil field offshore south of Burma to Thailand.

The company reiterated that it condemns the violence and human rights abuses occurring in Myanmar. It said it would comply with decisions of international and national authorities, including sanctions.

Burmas military has imposed an increasingly violent crackdown on mass protests against the coup and a broad civil disobedience movement. More than 825 people have been killedwell over two times the government tallyaccording to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, a watchdog organization that monitors arrests and deaths.

The United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and other European governments have imposed sanctions in an effort to push the junta to release the hundreds of people it has arrested and restore the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. But such actions have had a limited effect as they targeted domestic military-controlled companies and the overseas travel and assets of members of the juntas leadership, the military and their family members.

Among other things, critics of the junta have urged many companies to withdraw or stop payments that might support Burmas military, which has vast holdings that dominate its economy.

That includes banks that provide financing for companies working with or paying rent to military-affiliated companies and pension funds that are invested in dozens of companies.

By Elaine Kurtenbach
G7 Foreign Ministers Condemn Belarus, Threaten Further Sanctions

OTTAWAThe G7 says it will ramp up its efforts to hold Belarus accountable for arresting a dissident journalist on board an intercepted jetliner, though additional penalties have yet to be nailed down.

In a statement Thursday, the countries foreign ministers along with a European Union representative said they will impose further sanctions as appropriate, condemning the act as an attack on press freedom and civil aviation rules.

The EU has already moved to ban Belarusian airlines from its skies, advised EU carriers to steer clear of flights over Belarus and pledged further economic sanctions.

On Sunday, Belarusian air traffic controllers diverted a Ryanair flight between Greece and Lithuania to Belaruss capital, Minsk, claiming there was a bomb threat.

On the ground, authorities detained journalist Roman Protasevich and his girlfriend Sofia Sapega, who both later appeared in videos under apparent duress.

The G7 is calling for immediate action from the International Civil Aviation Organization council, which convened an urgent meeting Thursday morning.

Transport Canada urged Belarus to release all individuals who have been arbitrarily detained and called on it to cooperate with the councils investigation.

Canada remains deeply concerned by the ongoing crackdown against journalists and peaceful protesters by the Belarusian government, the department said in an email Thursday.

Transport Canada said Tuesday it had issued an airspace security warning  in response to unusual excessive measures by Belarus, advising airlines against flying over the country.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau echoed European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and U.S. President Joe Biden in calling the brazen act an attack on democracy and freedom of the press.

The same day, the Belarusian Embassy in Ottawa announced it will shut its doors, stating in a website post that activity will be suspended as of Sept. 1. The statement made no reference to international outrage over Sundays incident.

Canada announced sanctions against 55 Belarusian officials last year after an election that Global Affairs Canada said was marred by widespread irregularities amid a systemic campaign of repression and human rights violations under President Alexander Lukashenko, who has served in the office since its creation in 1994.

He was sworn in for a sixth term after a landslide election victory last August that sparked countrywide protests and global backlash over a vote that was widely seen as fraudulent.

Protasevich, 26, is part of a disparate group of Belarusian journalists and activists campaigning in exile against the presidents 27-year reign.

He co-founded the Telegram channel Nexta, which has helped rally anti-Lukashenko demonstrations, landing him on a wanted list for terrorism in 2019. The state charged Protasevich in absentia last year with organizing mass riots and group actions that grossly violate public order.

He was travelling on Ryanair Flight 4978 from Athens to Vilnius, Lithuania, on Sunday afternoon when air traffic control, assisted by a Belarusian fighter jet, prompted the plane to turn around and make an emergency landing at the Minsk airport.
Garbage Collector Spots Boy Hiding in Trash Bin, Stops Compactor Just in Time, Saving His Life

A Florida sanitation worker was recently recognized and awarded in Hillsborough County for saving a young boys life.

Waldo Fidele, a garbage truck driver working for Waste Connections, received the award on May 12 at the Hillsborough County Sherriffs Office.

In early February, Fidele saved the life of a child at a residence along Neving Avenue in North Tampa, Fox 13 reported. Elias Quezada, a 7-year-old boy living with his grandmother, was playing hide-and-seek on a Tuesday when the incident occurred.

Sheriff Chad Chronister awarded Waldo Fidele. (Courtesy of Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office)

Elias had hid in a garbage bin outside the house, unaware that a waste collection truck was en route to pick up the trash.

When the truck arrived, the garbage can was mechanically hoisted up and its contents dumped into the back of the truck. It was at this point that the driver noticed the boy through the surveillance camera and acted rapidly to save him.

He hit the emergency button to stop the tucks compactor blade from compacting the refuse, thus saving the boy from being seriously wounded or killed.

The driver admitted he was overcome with emotion when he heard Elias screaming in terror.

I come outside. I see him, he seemed happy! the driver told NBC. I said ok, you are okay now.

Carmen Salazar, the boys grandma, heard Elias crying for help and thought he was trapped under the truck, causing her to panic.

Now, she is thankful.

(L-R) Sheriff Chad Chronister, Waldo Fidele, and Eliass grandma Carmen Salazar. (Courtesy of Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office)

I was very scared that day, but also I am very grateful, she told the station. Mr. Fidele, you save the life of my grandson.

During the award presentation, Sherriff Chad Chronister praised Fidele for his actions in saving the boy.

Had it not been for Waldo Fideles quick thinking, a young child could have lost his life that day, Chronister stated.

It is his heroic actions that prevented a family from experiencing tragedy and allowed a 7-year-old boy to play another day. We are thankful to Mr. Fidele, and this award is a small example of that gratitude.

In a Facebook post, the Hillsborough County Sherriffs Office hailed Fidele a hero, and congratulated him on the well-deserved recognition.

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Georgia Judge Postpones Ballot Examination After County Files Motion to Dismiss

A judge in Georgia told parties in an election integrity case on May 27 that a previously scheduled meeting at a ballot storage warehouse was canceled after officials filed a flurry of motions in the case.

Henry County Superior Court Judge Brian Amero said a May 28 meeting was no longer taking place because of motions filed by Fulton County, the countys Board of Registration and Elections, and the countys clerk of Superior and Magistrate Courts, a spokesperson for the court confirmed to The Epoch Times.

Amero said the motions must be heard before the plaintiffs can gain access to the absentee ballots. He proposed a June 21 hearing, but the order scheduling the hearing hasnt yet been filed.

It seems like a desperation move. The silver lining is that we now have more time to perfect the changes we had to make in our inspection plan, Garland Favorito, the lead petitioner, told The Epoch Times via email.

County officials argued that the complaint filed by voters should be dismissed because the petitioners failed to serve, or even attempt to serve, the county. They also said Fulton County doesnt have final control over elections, that petitioners arent entitled to declaratory judgment, and that petitioners havent complied with election contest requirements.

Amero heard in a hearing last week that petitioners werent able to properly examine ballot images theyve received because of their low resolution200 dots per inch (DPI). Amero granted the petitioners request to unseal the mailed ballots and said they could go to where they were stored in order to observe county workers create higher resolution images of the ballots.

Amero mentioned during the hearing that no parties had filed a motion to dismiss, allowing petitioners to obtain some discovery.

During the hearing, lawyers for the county urged the judge not to grant access to the ballots.

Before the latest update in the case, some officials had supported the ballot examination.

Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, a Republican, opposed letting petitioners get access to the ballots, but said he supported Ameros ruling.

From day one, I have encouraged Georgians with concerns about the election in their counties to pursue those claims through legal avenues. Fulton County has a long standing history of election mismanagement that has understandably weakened voters faith in its system. Allowing this audit provides another layer of transparency and citizen engagement, he told The Epoch Times in an email.

However, Democrat Fulton County Commission Chairman Robb Pitts criticized the attempt to examine the ballots.

It is outrageous that Fulton County continues to be a target of those who cannot accept the results from last years election, he told news outlets in a statement.
German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas (second left) adjusts his glasses prior to a group photo of EU foreign ministers in Lisbon on May 27, 2021. (Armando Franca/AP Photo)

German Lawmaker Warns of Spiral of Sanctions Against Belarus

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas warned of a long and severe spiral of sanctions as EU foreign ministers met on Thursday to discuss further sanctions against Belarus.

The Belarusian regime sparked strong reactions from the West after it intercepted a Ryanair flight flying over its airspace on Sunday and arrested two people onboard26-year-old opposition journalist Roman Protasevich, and his 23-year-old Russian girlfriend Sofia Sapega.

The EU has already requested airlines avoid Belarusian airspace and banned Belarusian airlines from the EU this week. Thats on top of sanctions against Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko and other officials imposed last year over the August election that handed Lukashenko a sixth term and that opposition groups have rejected as rigged, as well as a crackdown on protests.

The EUs High Representative Josep Borrell said on Thursday ahead of the meeting in Lisbon, Portugal, that the lawmakers will discuss the implementation of sectorial and economic sanctions as the personal sanctions have very much advanced at the technical level.

European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell arrives for an EU summit at the European Council building in Brussels on May 24, 2021. (Olivier Hoslet/Pool/AFP via Getty Images)

Lawmakers are aiming for agreement on June 21 when they meet in Luxembourg, and before the next meeting of EU leaders, but the German foreign minister said he was hoping this will be done within the next few days.

Maas told reporters that the sanctions need to be swiftly enforced to put significant pressure on Lukashenko and his regime.

We want the sanctions to put significant pressure on Belarusian economic structures and financial structures so that the repercussions are felt and the Lukashenko regime is made to understand that the moment for dialogue has passed as long as things like those of the last week happen, he said.

I think the first signal that we are expecting is that the more than 400 political prisoners are released. And as long as that has not happened yet, the EU cannot relent in their efforts to introduce new sanctions.

Maas warned that unless Lukashenko backs down, there will be a long and severe spiral of sanctions to come.

We will monitor how effective this is in Belarus and whether Lukashenko relents, and if he does not, then we have to assume that this is just the beginning of a long and severe spiral of sanctions, as the actions taken by Lukashenko are just so unacceptable that the EU will not only refuse to be silent over this but will spend the coming weeks realizing ways to increase the pressure on Belarus and Lukashenko, he said.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko delivers a speech during a meeting with parliamentarians, members of the Constitutional Commission, and representatives of public administration bodies, in Minsk, Belarus, on May 26, 2021. (Maxim Guchek/BelTA/Handout via Reuters)

Other EU foreign ministers suggested that potash and oil could also be targeted.

The keyword, I think, is potash. We know that Belarus produces very much potash, it is one of the biggest suppliers globally, and I think it would hurt Lukashenko very much if we managed something in this area, Luxembourgs Foreign Minister Jean Asselborn said ahead of the meeting.

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis said the EU should consider hitting the oil sector with sanctions.

Exports of potasha potassium-rich salt used in fertilizerare one of the major sources of foreign currency for Belarus, and state firm Belaruskali says it produces 20 percent of the worlds supply.

The EU statistics agency said the bloc imported 1.2 billion euros ($1.5 billion) worth of chemicals including potash from Belarus last year, as well as more than 1 billion euros worth of crude oil and related products such as fuel and lubricants.

The ministers also said that its important to try to keep Russia in mind.

What we dont want to do is to drive the country in the arms of Russia, Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg said.

Maas said that it would be important to talk to Russia as everyone knows that without Russia and without Russian support Lukashenko would have no future in Belarus.

And I think that this affects the relationship between Russia and the EU and so its important that we keep up a dialogue with Russia, but with the clear expectation that we also have with Belarus and the sanctions, we must use the same language with Russia, he added.

Belarus journalist Raman Protasevich poses for a photo in front of euroradio.fm sign in Minsk, Belarus, on Nov. 17, 2019. (Euroradio via AP)

Lukashenko defended the diversion of the flight on Wednesday, claiming a bomb threat, which the Belarusian authorities used to ground Protasevichs flight, came from Switzerland, and that the flight was near a nuclear power plant.

He also defended the arrest of Pratasevich, saying the journalist was working to foment a bloody rebellion.

Protasevich, who left Belarus in 2019, ran a popular messaging app that had a key role in helping organize huge protests in recent months that have put Lukashenko under unprecedented pressure at home in the wake of the August 2020 vote.

But the strongman has only increased his crackdown, and more than 35,000 people have been arrested since the protests began, with thousands beaten.

Reuters and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Gov. Kristi Noem Pushes South Dakota Colleges to Ban Critical Race Theory

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem is imploring universities in her state to not include critical race theory or The New York Times 1619 Project in their curricula.

The Republican governor asked the South Dakota Board of Regents, in a letter dated May 24, to ban universities from promoting or advancing either critical race theory, which heavily draws on Marxism and earlier critical theory, or the 1619 Project, which has been panned by several university professors for claiming that the United States was founded on racist principles and the American Revolution was fought to preserve the institution of slavery.

Im asking the South Dakota Board of Regents to set policies that preserve honest, patriotic education in SDs institutions of higher education, Noem wrote on Twitter on May 25, referring to her letter. Our kids and grandkids should understand the full picture of Americas historyour fundamental values; our greatest achievements; the struggles to overcome injustice.

Our next generation must learn about our triumphs and mistakes, with those mistakes being examined in context.

Noem joins other Republican states and governors who have taken the initiative to rid schools of critical race theory, arguing that the theory is unnecessarily divisive and racist. At the same time, the White House has proposed offering schools more funding if they adopt so-called antiracist programs.

In the letter, which has no legal weight, Noem asked the state Board to review whether state funds that are supported neither by the states legislative nor executive branches are being used to teach the 1619 Project, critical race theory, or any similar theory that misleads students into believing the country is evil or was founded upon evil or forcing students to personally affirm or adopt such beliefs.

The board should also determine whether our states post-secondary public institutions under your purview are ensuring the classroom remains a place for learning, study, and exploration, and not a platform for instruction that serves to advance individual, ideological, or political agendas. It is critical that our classrooms remain a place of learning, not indoctrination, the letter said.

State colleges should also evaluate whether diversity offices are still working within the scope of their original mission or whether they are engaged in inappropriate assignments, Noem stated.

Earlier this week, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican, said he opposes the teaching of critical race theory in public school classrooms.

Its offensive to the taxpayer that they would be asked to fund critical race theory, that they would be asked to fund teaching kids to hate their country and to hate each other, DeSantis said. Several states and school districts in recent days have already moved to ban teaching the Marxist doctrine.

The Board of Regents didnt immediately respond to a request by The Epoch Times for comment.
Handels Messiah Returns to Londons Royal Albert Hall As Englands COVID-19 Restrictions Ease

The Royal Choral Society will return to the Royal Albert Hall this weekend for its annual performance of Handels Messiahwhich was delayed from Good Friday due to the pandemic.

The performance will be one of the first to take place at the venue, in Kensington, London, as COVID-19 restrictions continue to ease in England under Boris Johnsons roadmap out of lockdown.

The Royal Albert Hall (RAH), one of Londons most iconic venues, will reopen on May 29 with a series of socially distanced events before returning to a full house from July 6.

Under social distancing rules, the RAH will only release 1,000 tickets for each of the concerts in its programme ahead of Julyaround 20 percent of its pre-pandemic capacity.

The RCS has performed Handels Messiahcomposed in 1741 by George Frideric Handelat the Royal Albert Hall almost every Good Friday for nearly 150 years.

The only exceptions to this tradition were during the Blitz in 1940 and amid the COVID-19 lockdown.

Last year, the RCS opted to remotely livestream their performance rather than cancel it altogether.

The Royal Choral Society performed the Hallelujah Chorus from Handels Messiah virtually on Good Friday in 2020. (Royal Choral Society)

But the choir is poised for a grand return on May 30with RCS Music Director Richard Cooke conducting the emotive piece for the 25th year.

Speaking ahead of the performance, Cooke told NTD that Messiah is a popular choral piece because of its sheer stature in terms of composition.

You go through the overture, and immediately youre launched into the depths of comfort ye my people, the beautiful recitative that begins the singing part, and throughout the work there are moments of great poignancy.

He added the sense of occasion builds in the piece as it reaches the Hallelujah Chorus and the aria I know that my redeemer liveth.

Handel did really achieve a magnificence in the last section of Messiah, it had been going on all the way through, but for me its an ever more humbling and uplifting experience.

Richard Cooke, Conductor and Music Director or Royal Choral Society, speaks to NTD in an online interview on May 14, 2021. (Screenshot/ NTD)

He said one of the highlights is the Amen Chorus finishing with a top A in the sopranos.

It really cant fail to move you, and the more you know it, you expect your favourite moments, you know when they come and you feel a sort of glow around you, both performers and audience alike, when one of the most beautiful moments happens.

The performance will involve 119 socially distanced members of the RCS choir and four soloists: Mary Bevan, Marta Fontanals-Simmons, Benjamin Hulett, and Edward Grint.

Cooke said he typically doesnt face nerves when stepping up to conduct Messiah, just a sense of occasion and awe. But things dont always go as planned, he added.

One year the harpsichord collapsed in the first part and the organist had to take over the harpsichord music, so there was a certain amount of unwanted signalling going on between me and the organ player.

The concert will be performed with organ accompaniment rather than full orchestra under social distancing rules. Organist Richard Pearce is set to accompany the acclaimed choir on the Royal Albert Halls famous organ with its 10,000 pipes.

Speaking of Handels Messiah, Cooke said: Because George II is reputed to have stood up when he heard it, whether this is a true story or not I dont know but we stand up in the Albert Hall normally, and its another moment you feel part of something big.

The performance of Messiah is part of the Royal Albert Halls 150th-anniversary celebrations.

It has been performed in full more than 500 times at the venue and it was estimated that five million audience members have seen a performance of Messiah at the Hall.

Cooke added: It was so disappointing to have to cancel our 144th annual Messiah at the Royal Albert Hall in 2020, and we thought wed lost this years as wellhaving missed the usual Easter dateso we are indebted to our friends at the Hall for allowing this years performance to go ahead, albeit a little later than usual.

We have all missed live performance, and there is no better work than Handels Messiah for raising the roof.

NTD Reporter Neil Woodrow contributed to this report.
Bodies of the victims of a Ukrainian plane crash are collected by rescue team at the scene of the crash in Shahedshahr, southwest of the capital Tehran, Iran, on Jan. 8, 2020. (AP, Ebrahim Noroozi/The Canadian Press)

Human Rights Watch Says Families of Flight 752 Victims Harassed, Intimidated by Iran

OTTAWAA human rights group says in a new report that Iran has harassed families of passengers killed aboard Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752.

Human Rights Watch says from last fall until January it spoke with 31 family members of victims and people with direct knowledge of how Iranian authorities treated relatives.

In all, 176 people were killed when an Iranian surface-to-air missile shot down a passenger jet destined for Kyiv minutes after takeoff from Tehran on Jan. 8, 2020.

Among the dead were 55 Canadians and 30 permanent residents.

Human Rights Watch says those it spoke with say Iranian security agencies have mistreated victims families through arbitrary detainment, interrogation and intimidation.

It reports 16 people said security officials threatened them not to speak with foreign media or followed relatives and friends who attended memorials.

Family members said that in several instances, the authorities interfered with burial and memorial services, pressuring families to accept the governments martyrdom status for their loved ones, and published photos and videos without the permission of the families at services, it read.

One person taken into custody was also tortured, the report says, detailing how in at least three cases family members were told they would face consequences if they didnt remove critical social media posts against the government.

The downing of the flight happened after the United States killed a top Iranian military official, heightening tensions in the region.

Iran initially denied responsibility for the plane crash, but later said it was shot down after being misidentified as a hostile target and done in human error.

Canada is preparing to negotiate with Iran over repatriations.

Ontarios Superior Court ruled last week that the shooting of the jet was an act of terrorism, paving the way for relatives to seek compensation from Iran.
I Should Have Been Bit: Loyal Dog Takes Rattlesnake Bite for Her Owner, Is Recovering

A loyal dog is recovering after being bitten by a rattlesnake in an encounter where she took a venomous bite in place of her owner.

Earlier this month, Megan Montano stopped by her home off Vandegrift Boulevard in Oceanside, California, during her lunch break.

She let her dogs out into the backyard patio. Montano came out and knelt to put a leash on her chihuahua, Rebelunaware of the danger that was lurking next to the house.

While dealing with Rebel, she noticed her 3-year-old Great Dane Mia acting strangely, as though wary of some would-be intruder.

Mia got right behind her owner and suddenly jumped in shock.

All of a sudden, I kind of felt her bump into my side, and rear back, while making a noise, Montano told ABC 10. I threw my head to the left and I saw the snake.

Right behind Montano, a 1 1/2-foot rattlesnake had struck. She was just too lucky that Mia had stood in between her and the venomous viper.

I should have been bit, she said. I dont know how I wasnt bit.

(Courtesy of Megan Montano)

A rattlesnake in Megans yard. (Courtesy of Megan Montano)

Montano realized it was the rattlesnake her dog had been wary of. Mia, who had gone to inspect the snake, had been bitten on the mouth.

She kept trying to hit her mouth with her paw, the owner said. Instantly I knew it had bitten her.

She said that Mias mouth started swelling and she immediately rushed Mia to a nearby vet who gave her a dose of antivenom.

She was released that night after her condition had stabilized. However, four days later, she was taken back to the vet after showing more symptoms.

Megan with her dog Mia. (Courtesy of Megan Montano)

I would say Mia is most definitely my hero, Montano told the outlet, noting that the Great Dane is recuperating well.

The intruding rattlesnake was then found, captured, and relocated to a safer place. Montano advises fellow pet owners to be vigilant this season to avoid a similar encounter.

Be aware of your surroundings, and just be smart. Have your head on a swivel at all times, Montano warned.

Share your stories with us at emg.inspired@epochtimes.com, and continue to get your daily dose of inspiration by signing up for the Epoch Inspired newsletter at TheEpochTimes.com/newsletter
Irvine residents gather to rally for various issues in front of Irvine City Hall in Irvine, Calif., on May 25, 2021. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

Irvine Residents Call on City Council to Address Public Health Crisis

IRVINE, Calif.A group of Irvine residents gathered outside city hall on May 25 to protest a variety of issues, including some related to an asphalt-mixing plant.

Various activist groups attended the rally, which was formed by the Stop Toxic Asphalt Pollutants (STAP) group, an Irvine-based organization seeking relief from the smell of burnt rubber. Members of the group said theyre worried about the health effects of air pollution from All American Asphalt, which is located close to Irvine neighborhoods including Orchard Hills.

Kim Konte, who is helping to lead the charge against the pollutants, said shes tired of being ignored by the Irvine City Council about an issue that is affecting multiple neighborhoods and causing health issues.

We are trapped in a bad movie right now, Konte told The Epoch Times. Our issue is really a public health crisis that some of our advisers from UCI and elsewhere have related to the Flint Michigan water crisis, where our elected officials are failing to take action on an issue that they are responsible for. They took an oath to protect public health and safety.

The University of CaliforniaIrvine (UCI) donated air quality sensors to STAP, Konte said, who added that data later retrieved from the equipment showed the air to be contaminated.

Irvine residents impacted by the plant said they feel betrayed by Irvine Mayor Farrah Khan and Vice Mayor Tammy Kim, who Konte said campaigned on the promise that they would work to fix the issues.

Everyones waiting to see if we can get something done, or people are moving this summer, Konte said. Were not going to allow these toxins to impact our childrens health any longer. Its scary to see the data that weve collected.  Its data that our UCI advisers, who are experts in air sampling and volatile organic compounds, have vetted and analyzed.

The issue goes beyond odors; Konte said some people living near the plant are getting sick with nosebleeds, headaches, stinging eyes, and burning throats. Orchard Hills is now being referred to as Orchard Kills, she said.

One of the main challenges relates to a policy the Irvine City Council passed last December, Konte said. The policy requires the support of two councilmembers or the mayor to place an item on the public meeting agenda.

Konte said Councilman Larry Agran, who supports fixing the issue, is stuck because he cant get a second councilmember to support the item.

Meanwhile, Kim told The Epoch Times that shes being unfairly attacked in the situation despite doing all she can for constituents.

When I was elected, I did look into the issue as promised, and I realized it was very complicated and very complex, Kim said. What I did learn is that the city of Irvine is in a lawsuit against the asphalt company, number one. Number two, what I learned is that the city of Irvine actually has no control over anything related to the air. It only has control over zoning and whatnot, but any toxins or anything around that is [controlled by the South Coast Air Quality Management District] AQMD.

Kim said she sent a letter to the district asking it to hold a public session on the matter, which it did in December. Despite the data she said STAP claims to have, the outcome of the meeting was inconclusive because consistent data couldnt be shown.

When asked about the lawsuit, Kim said she wasnt able to disclose many details, but that the city was trying to shut down the plant.

Kim said she also introduced the group to her own environmental advisory team, which consists of well-known professors and scientists in the realm of environmental sustainability. Yet, she said, the STAP group never responded to the introduction.

All American Asphalt didnt immediately respond to a request by The Epoch Times for comment.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 07:47:20|Editor: huaxia

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A railway staff member overhauls the catenary equipment of Karamay-Tacheng Railway in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, May 21, 2021. Random light objects such as broken kites, floating balloons, and drifting plastic films pose significant threats to the safe operation of high-speed railway lines, affecting the order of the railway network or causing irreversible damage to the overhead contact system equipment at worst. The duty of a group of railway staff members is to regularly patrol the routes to clean off these objects from the railway grid in time. (Photo by Duan Yanan/Xinhua)
Key Issues About Chinas Demographics Overlooked

Commentary

After China announced the results of its seventh national census, various criticisms immediately followed, mostly focusing on the serious distortion of facts.

Falsification of statistical data is a systemic disease that has existed in China since the founding of the Chinese communist regime. Before the authorities implemented the one-child policy in 1980, which aroused worldwide criticism, Chinas population data was falsified in an under-reported manner because the Chinese authorities believed overpopulation was a headache back then. Now the situation is reversedpopulation data is still falsified but this time it is inflated.

Falsification is certainly a big problem. Nonetheless, when discussing Chinas demographic issues, some analysts have overlooked the real problems.

First of all, population flow from economically underdeveloped areas to urban areas is not unique to China. The real problem is an ill economic structure.

I took a closer look at an issue that has been widely criticized. That is, based on the population in each province, it is obvious that there are more residents in the south and fewer in the north, more in the east and fewer in the west. Some northern and western provinces have already experienced negative population growth, showing a noticeably unbalanced population structure.

South Chinas economy is more developed than the north, and the east is more prosperous than the west. Population migration from economically underdeveloped areas to relatively developed areas is a natural trend under the market economy, and this is true all over the world. The northeast has been declining and the west was underdeveloped to begin with, especially the desert areas in the northwest that are not suitable as human habitats. Nowadays, young adults in these areas can relocate to south and east China and they have survived, which not only indicates that the mobility of Chinese society has increased, but also proves that the contemporary youth have better adaptability than their parents generation. That is to say, unbalanced population distribution per se is not necessarily a problem.

Scavengers pick up useful construction waste from a garbage dump in Hefei, central Chinas Anhui Province, on Dec. 9, 2012. Chinas wealth gap has widened to a level where it is among the worlds most unequal nations, a Chinese academic institute said in a survey, as huge numbers of poor are left behind by the economic boom. (STR/AFP via Getty Images)

The same is true in the United States. In recent years, there have been outbound migrations from New York, San Francisco, Chicago, and other cities. The Democratic-controlled states advocate political correctness. For instance, a large number of illegal immigrants moved into these states, BLM protests occur frequently, and taxation is heavy. As a result, many companies have chosen to leave and the economies in these states have declined. Naturally, these companies took away a group of employees, causing a population loss for these states, and the loss is mostly affluent residents.

For China, the key problem, a really serious one, is that the economic structure of Chinas underdeveloped areas is abnormal, and many areas are not even financially self-sufficient.

For example, Foping county of Shaanxi Province has recently been hyped by the Chinese media for having a very low permanent population, a little over 8,000 in the entire county, while there are 2,194 people working in the local government and public institutions.

The countys local fiscal revenue was 39.43 million yuan in 2018 and 36.6 million yuan in 2019. The fiscal expenditures in these two years were 800 million yuan and 797 million yuan respectively. It is a parasitic area that has to feed on the central government. The situation in Foping is somewhat extreme, but in remote Chinese counties, the lack of employment opportunities for local youth is a common phenomenon.

Based on the above analysis, discussing the imbalanced population distribution in China is a seemingly serious topic but a false problem. Due to differences in economic development and geological factors, no country in the world has an evenly distributed population in different regions. Only totalitarian regimes like to control population movement and believe it is normal for the population to be evenly distributed across all regions.

Aging Demographics With Chinese Characteristics

According to the United Nations standard, a country or region with an elderly population of more than 7 percent can be considered as entering an aging society, 14 percent or more means moderate aging.

Currently, the proportion of elderly people aged 65 and over in China has reached 13.5 percent, according to official data. Public opinion has been focused on the discussion that the aging problem is imminent, as if the livelihood problem of Chinas elderly population should only be attributed to the excessively large number of seniors.

A one-child policy billboard saying, Have less children, have a better life, greets residents on the main street of Shuangwang, southern Chinas Guangxi region in May 2017. (Goh Chai Hin/AFP via Getty Images)

The United Nations has released a report titled World Population Prospects: The 2012 Revision, which forecasts the elderly population of various countries in 2014, 2030, and 2050.

Mankind is now in the middle stage of the 2014 to 2030 period.

In 2014, China ranked 52nd with an elderly population accounting for 14.4 percent. In the same year, 96 countries also obtained their national census data, which showed that there were 33 countries in the world where the elderly population exceeded 20 percent.

In the 2030 forecast, among the same 96 countries, China ranked 43rd with an elderly population of 23.8 percent in its total population. By 2030, 14 countries in the world will have more than 30 percent of the elderly population, among them Malta and Slovenia are the only two developing countries.

The countries that have a higher degree of aging population than China are mostly western countries. Only a few are developing countries such as Albania, Argentina, and Montenegro. Conversely, those countries that have a lower percentage of elderly population than China are mostly developing countries.

Among all countries with census records, Japan is facing the most serious aging problem. The elderly population in Japan was 32.8 percent in 2014 and projected to reach 37.5 percent in 2030. In contrast to China, Japan and the European Union countries have all largely solved the problem of taking care of the elderly, even though they have a higher percentage of senior population than that of China.

It can be seen that Chinas issue of eldercare does not lie in the problem of an increasingly aging population per se, but the countrys pension and social welfare system, which is a political and economic policy issue. This is especially true when we consider that there are about 77 million elderly people in rural areas, a population group that faces the most serious livelihood problem as they basically have no social welfare such as medical insurance and pension.

Fewer Births Isnt the Same as the Disappearance of Demographic Dividend

Some people equate declining birth rates with diminishing demographic dividend. It is actually very easy to debunk this statement.

The demographic data of the 96 countries listed by the aforementioned U.N. report showed that the countries with a high proportion of young people were mostly African and Middle Eastern countries, where birth rates were very high, as well as some Asian countries. Brazil, Turkey, Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, South Africa, India, Indonesia, Honduras, Iraq, Pakistan, Jordan, and Bangladesh were all in this category. But it so happens that these countries have the highest youth unemployment rates.

Fewer births/children is a big problem for individual families. It is said that in China, the number of elderly people who lost their only child has exceeded 2 million. As the Chinese traditionally rely on children to care for elderly parents, caring for bereaved parents is a problem that requires the collaborative support of the government and society. But from the perspective of the entire society, fewer births cannot be equated with the disappearance of the demographic dividend. Those who argued otherwise have overlooked a problem: the realization of the demographic dividend requires full or close to full employment of young people.

Ever since China started its reform and opening up about 40 years ago, it experienced several phases of rapid employment growth, and naturally realized a demographic dividend to the full extent. The growth in the 1990s was due to the influx of capital from Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea. China later became the worlds factory after joining the World Trade Organization in 2001, and enjoyed a more booming phase in the years that followed.

However, since the 2010s, labor-intensive industries have been gradually moving out of Chinaits status as the worlds factory has begun to wane. It has become increasingly difficult for the youth to find employment, and a large number of them cant leave the nest and continue to rely on their parents for financial support. The demographic dividend certainly cannot be realized during this time period.

Applicants look at recruitment information displayed at a labor market in Yiwu, China, on Feb. 19, 2016. (VCG/VCG via Getty Images)

To further illustrate this point, lets do a simple comparison of the youth unemployment rates in different countries. It will help us understand how significant it was for China to have the demographic dividend it enjoyed in the golden decade from 2002 to 2012.

Youth unemployment is a global problem that has been a serious concern for more than 20 years. In October 2000, the International Labor Organization released the report Global Employment Trends for Youth, pointing out that during the 20 years between 1999 and 2019, the youth participation in the labor market dropped by 12 percentage points, from 53.1 to 41.2 percent, showing a global downward trend; yet the total number of young people increased by 300 million during the same period.

In terms of regional differences, the 2019 youth employment rate was the highest in North America, which was 52.6 percent. North Africa and the Arab region were the lowest at 27 percent. East Asias rate was 45.2 percent, higher than the global average of 41.2 percent.

Its noteworthy that, as I mentioned earlier, these regions where youth employment rates were among the lowest have the highest percentage of young people. In other words, they were the least aging society. However, young people in these regions still do not have adequate employment opportunities, and these countries have also become the main source of refugees flowing into Europe since 2015.

Apparently, a younger demographic structure is only one of the conditions for realizing the demographic dividend, but this condition does not guarantee a good outcome.

In recent years, Chinas status as the worlds factory is coming to an end, the industrial chain is being reshaped on a global scale, and the modern industrial system is more dependent on automation equipment and specialized skills. Correspondingly, the real problem is not the decline in birth rates, but the quality of the workforce.

Up to now, China is still the worlds most populous country, and it is heavily dependent on imports for major resources. For example, more than 60 percent of oil and 30 percent of food are imported. In terms of resources, it is a very fragile system.

For a country like China, it is extremely important to avoid the Malthusian trap and to treat its population and demographic problem in a rational manner.

He Qinglian is a prominent Chinese author and economist. Currently based in the United States, she authored Chinas Pitfalls, which concerns corruption in Chinas economic reform of the 1990s, and The Fog of Censorship: Media Control in China, which addresses the manipulation and restriction of the press. She regularly writes on contemporary Chinese social and economic issues.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Law enforcement officers respond to the scene of a shooting at a Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) facility in San Jose, Calif., on May 26, 2021. (Noah Berger/AP Photo)

Sheriff: Gunman Appeared to Target Some Victims at Rail Yard

SAN JOSE, Calif.A California sheriff says a gunman who killed nine people in a rail yard massacre had fired 39 shots and appeared to target some of the victims.

Santa Clara County Sheriff Laurie Smith told The Associated Press on Thursday that the shooter told at least one person: Im not going to shoot you at a light rail facility for the Valley Transportation Authority in San Jose.

The gunman then shot other people with two semi-automatic handguns. He later shot himself as deputies closed in.

Smith said in an interview that the shooter also appeared to have set a timer or slow-burn device to set his home on fire. The fire was reported minutes after the first 911 calls came in from the rail facility.

The shooter had talked about killing people at work more than a decade ago, his ex-wife said.

I never believed him, and it never happened. Until now, a tearful Cecilia Nelms told The Associated Press on Wednesday following the 6:30 a.m. attack at a light rail facility for the Valley Transportation Authority.

When our deputies went through the door, initially he was still firing rounds. When our deputy saw him, he took his life, Santa Clara County Sheriff Laurie Smith told reporters.

The gunman had two handguns and 11 loaded magazines, the sheriff told NBCs Today show on Thursday. A locker at the rail yard believed to be the gunmans contained materials for bombs, detonator cords, the precursors to an explosive, Smith said.

FBI agents approach a home, rear, being investigated in connection to a shooting at a Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) facility in San Jose, Calif., on May 26, 2021. (Noah Berger/AP Photo)

The number of people fatally shot by the gunman rose from eight after the Santa Clara Countys medical examiner-coroner late Wednesday confirmed the death of Alex Ward Fritch, 49. He had been wounded and hospitalized in critical condition after the attack.

The sheriffs office is next door to the rail yard, which serves the county of more than 1 million people in the heart of the Silicon Valley.

The attacker was identified as 57-year-old Samuel Cassidy, according to two law enforcement officials. Investigators offered no immediate word on a possible motive but his ex-wife said he used to come home from work resentful and angry over what he perceived as unfair assignments.

He could dwell on things, she said. The two were married for about 10 years until a 2005 divorce filing and she hadnt been in touch with Cassidy for about 13 years, Nelms said.

It was the 15th mass killing in the nation this year, all of them shootings that have claimed at least four lives each for a total of 87 deaths, according to a database compiled by The Associated Press, USA Today, and Northeastern University.

At the White House, President Joe Biden ordered flags to be flown at half-staff and urged Congress to act on legislation to curb gun violence.

Every life that is taken by a bullet pierces the soul of our nation. We can, and we must, do more, Biden said in a statement.

Gov. Gavin Newsom visited the site and then spoke emotionally about the countrys latest mass killing.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom leaves a staging area for Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) workers, family members and officials following a shooting at one of the agencys rail yards in San Jose, Calif., on May 26, 2021. (Noah Berger/AP Photo)

Theres a numbness some of us are feeling about this. Theres a sameness to this, he said. It begs the damn question of what the hell is going on in the United States of America?

The shooting took place in two buildings and killed employees who had been bus and light rail operators, mechanics, linemen, and an assistant superintendent over the course of their careers. One had worked for the agency since 1999.

Eight victims identified earlier were Paul Delacruz Megia, 42; Taptejdeep Singh, 36; Adrian Balleza, 29; Jose Dejesus Hernandez, 35; Timothy Michael Romo, 49; Michael Joseph Rudometkin, 40; Abdolvahab Alaghmandan, 63, and Lars Kepler Lane, 63.

Singh had worked as a light rail train driver for eight or nine years and had a wife, two small children, and many family members, said his cousin, Bagga Singh.

We heard that he chose the people to shoot, but I dont know why they choose him because he has nothing to do with him, he said.

San Jose City Councilman Raul Peralez said Rudometkin was a close friend.

There are no words to describe the heartache we are feeling right now, especially for his family, he wrote on Facebook. Eight families are feeling this same sense of loss tonight and our entire community is mourning as well.

In court documents, an ex-girlfriend described Cassidy as volatile and violent, with major mood swings because of bipolar disorder that became worse when he drank heavily.

Several times while he was drunk, Cassidy forced himself on her sexually despite her refusals, pinning her arms with his body weight, the woman alleged in a 2009 sworn statement filed after Cassidy had sought a restraining order against her. The documents were obtained by The San Francisco Chronicle.

The Associated Press generally does not name people who say they have been sexually assaulted.

People embrace outside a staging area for Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) workers, family members and officials following a shooting at one of the agencys rail yards in San Jose, Calif., on May 26, 2021. (Noah Berger/AP Photo)

Cassidy had worked for Valley Transportation Authority since at least 2012, according to the public payroll and pension database Transparent California, first as a mechanic from 2012 to 2014, then as someone who maintained substations.

Officials also were investigating a house fire that broke out shortly before the shooting, Davis said. Public records show Cassidy owned the two-story home where firefighters responded after being notified by a passerby. Law enforcement officers cordoned off the area near the home and went in and out Wednesday.

The gunman probably set some kind of a device to go off at a certain time probably to coincide with the shooting, the sheriff told Today.

Doug Suh, who lives across the street, told The Mercury News in San Jose that Cassidy seemed strange and that he never saw anyone visit.

Id say hello, and hed just look at me without saying anything, Suh said. Once, Cassidy yelled at him to stay away as he was backing up his car. After that, I never talked to him again.

Wednesdays attack was the deadliest shooting in the San Francisco Bay Area since 1993, when a gunman attacked law offices in San Franciscos Financial District, killing eight people before taking his own life.

It also was Santa Clara Countys second mass shooting in less than two years. A gunman killed three people and then himself at a popular garlic festival in Gilroy in July 2019.

By Jocelyn Gecker and Martha Mendoza
An Apple Store employee shows the Series 5 Apple Watch during the preview of the redesigned and reimagined Apple Fifth Avenue store in New York on Sept. 19, 2019. (Brendan McDermid/Reuters File Photo)

Lawsuit Claims Apple Monopolizes Heart-Rate Technology for Apple Watch

A Silicon Valley company has filed an antitrust lawsuit accusing Apple of cornering the market for heart-rate monitoring technology for the Apple Watch, and endangering wearers health.

In a complaint filed late on Tuesday night, AliveCor said Apple shut out rivals by changing the heart-rate algorithm on its watchs operating system, making rival technology incompatible.

AliveCor sells KardiaBand, an Apple Watch wristband capable of recording an electrocardiogram, and SmartRhythm, an app that alerts users to irregular heartbeats.

The privately held company accused Apple, whose market value exceeds $2 trillion, of quietly working in the background to copy its ability to record an ECG on the Apple Watch, and to provide a separate app for heart-rate analysis.

As it has done multiple times over the years in other markets, Apple decided that it would not accept competition on the merits, AliveCor said in its complaint filed in San Francisco federal court.

The value of controlling such critical health data (with the accompanying ability to exploit it) was apparently too much of a temptation for Apple, it added. To gain an unfair competitive edge, Apple put countless AliveCor users lives in danger.

Apple did not immediately respond on Wednesday to requests for comment.

The Cupertino, California-based company has apps for taking ECGs, and measuring heart rates at rest or during workouts.

AliveCor is seeking unspecified triple damages, citing Apples alleged willful effort to create a monopoly.

The Mountain View, California-based company in December sued Apple for patent infringement in Texas, and in April asked the U.S. International Trade Commission to ban imports of Apple Watches.

AliveCor is represented by Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, a litigation specialist with more than 800 lawyers.

The case is AliveCor Inc v Apple Inc, U.S. District Court, Northern District of California, No. 21-03958.

By Jonathan Stempel
Maine House Speaker Replaces Republicans on Committees Over Mask Rule Violation

The speaker of the Maine House of Representatives this week stripped seven conservatives of their committee assignments, replacing them with Democrats.

House Speaker Ryan Fecteau, a Democrat, made the move after the group, comprised of six GOP lawmakers and a Libertarian, entered the state Capitol without masks.

Video footage posted by one of the legislators, state Rep. Laurel Libby, showed law enforcement stopping the group just inside the entrance.

In order to be in legislative space, your leadership said that you need to wear a mask. So we are asking you to wear a mask beyond this point, one officer said.

The group wondered what would happen if they kept moving forward into the building. The office said leadership, meaning Fecteau, would decide.

After an aide said Fecteau was unavailable for a meeting, the group brushed past the officers.

When it became clear that Capitol Security and nonpartisan staff lacked the legal authority and or applicable policies to prevent our entry, we proceeded into the State House to complete our work, they said in a joint statement to news outlets.

The following day, Fecteau sent a letter to the lawmakers and informed them they would be replaced on the committees by Democrats, local media reported.

I am absolutely disinterested in having to engage in a tussle over face coverings and the like, Fecteau wrote, according to Bangor Daily News. I simply will not tolerate attempts to devolve our institution into showmanship and political theater.

Maine Gov. Janet Mills, a Democrat, signed an order on May 20 ending the statewide mask mandate the following week. But a council in charge of rules at the Capitol voted last week to keep requiring masks inside the building.

I would be very regretful if a decision I made here at Legislative Council led to someone getting very ill, and I could have made a decision otherwise, Fecteau said during a meeting before the vote.

Libby accused the council of ignoring both federal and Maine guidelines surrounding masks.

Apparently Speaker Fecteau only wants to follow the science when it is politically expedient, she wrote on Facebook.

Why are legislators being treated differently than the public, whom we represent? added state Rep. Heidi Sampson.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said last month people who have received a COVID-19 vaccine no longer needed to wear masks, even indoors.

A spokesman for the Maine House GOP told The Epoch Times via email: All things must come to pass. The Maine Legislatures Democrat leaders are ensuring that the only Maine people required to wear masks are children over 5 in schools and daycare facilities, and Maine state legislators. Elected leaders should be subject to the same rules as the people they represent.

State Rep. Chris Johansen, a Republican, told the Daily News he is looking into potential legal action against Fecteau to prevent the speaker from forcing members to wear masks.
Mayoral Candidate Who Supports Cutting Atlanta Police Funding Dragged by Car Thieves in Broad Daylight

An Atlanta city councilman running for mayor, who last year supported a measure to reduce city police funding by tens of millions of dollars, had his car stolen by children on Wednesday, he and police confirmed.

Councilman Antonio Brown had been attending a ceremony in northeastern Atlanta at 12 p.m. Wednesday when several children jumped into his vehicle and drove away, he said.

You dont immediately think, Oh, these kids are going to steal my car, Brown told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, referring to the incident, adding that the thieves appeared to be children, although one of them acted as though he had a gun.

Brown told officers that he emerged from his car to speak with someone when several males entered his unlocked car and drove away with it, according to police. At this time, officers are gathering information on exactly how this happened and working to identify anyone involved in the incident and locate the stolen vehicle, the department added.

After the children got into the vehicle and were about to leave, Brown said he held onto his car and was dragged about a block down the road before he let go of it, adding that the driver started to go faster and faster.

In an interview with FOX5, the councilman said the children were between the ages of 6 and 12.

One kid was in the drivers seat. [Community leader Ben Norman] attempted to open the door to get him out of the car. He fought with Ben. I then engaged and tried to get him out of the car. The three other kids were trying to figure out how to get in the car or stay out of the car. He started to hit on the gas, Brown added.

Brown defended his stance on law enforcement saying theres no amount of officers  that could have stopped this from happening.

Brown said that he doesnt plan on filing charges against the children.

This is a generational poverty issue. These kids, its 12:30 in the afternoon. Why arent they in school? Why arent we enforcing systems to ensure that if they are not in school, theyre in recreational centers? he told WSB-TV.

Brown called 911 and waited for five minutes to speak to a dispatcher, and then waited 45 minutes for the police to arrive.

Brown is running his mayoral campaign, according to the Journal-Constitution, on a platform of reimagining public safety, which is a term generally used by left-leaning officials who want to reduce the budgets of police departments and transfer the money into social programs.

Last summer, in the midst of Black Lives Matter protests and riots, Brown was an avid participant in BLM marches and demonstrations, calling for the resignation of Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms in the wake of an officer-involved fatal shooting of Rayshard Brooks.

Brown and several other Atlanta City Council members last June voted in favor of an ordinance that would have defunded the Atlanta Police Department by about $73 million. The measure failed in a 7-8 vote. Before it was voted down, Brown appeared to be one of the measures chief proponents.

The councilmans car was stolen in the midst of a crime wave thats hit major metropolitan areas. Atlanta is no different as homicides are up 52 percent from the same time last year, while the number of shootings has increased 40 percent, according to the Atlanta Police Department.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer speaks to members of the press in Detroit, Mich., on April 6, 2021. (Matthew Hatcher/Getty Images)

Michigan House Votes to Block Most COVID-19 Business Fines

Vote came after Gov. Whitmer was caught violating her own administration's rules at a bar

The Michigan House of Representatives voted this week to approve a bill that would bar the states Occupational Safety and Health Administration from levying fines against several businesses accused of breaking COVID-19 emergency rules.

The bill would prevent the department from imposing a civil penalty on a business if the violation was its first and the business has taken action to correct it.

Additionally, the bill would protect businesses that have been or will be fined based on an executive order from Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer if that order is found to be unconstitutional or is otherwise voided by the Michigan Supreme Court. In such cases, the department must reimburse the business for the fine, should the measure become law.

The vote came several days after Whitmer was caught violating an emergency rule by gathering with a group larger than six people inside a restaurant.

The Lansing bar where the governor convened with friends wasnt fined. Linda Vail, the health officer for Ingham County, told news outlets that the countys health department doesnt levy fines unless an establishment has multiple violations.

State Rep. Timothy Beson, a Republican who sponsored the bill, alluded to the situation in a floor speech.

Some businesses, as recently as last weekend, have been given grace for breaking certain rules. But it should not take an act of forgiveness for that to happen, it should be a law, he said.

State Rep. Steve Johnson, a Republican, said that some businesses have been fined as much as $6,300.

Now, to me, instead of fining businesses, we should try to work with them, to try to make sure that were not trying to put them out of business, he said.

Johnson said if a restaurant in his district broke the six-person gathering limit, it would have been fined thousands of dollars.

The good news for this individual is she happens to be the governor of Michigan. No fines, no citations, no penalties. Must be nice. Colleagues, the question before you today is: Should the businesses in our district get the same treatment as the governor? Thats all Im asking, he said.

No opponents of the bill spoke on the floor.

The House passed the bill 7434, with multiple Democrats supporting the legislation.

It has been transmitted to the state Senate and referred to the upper chambers economic panel for consideration.
Ohio Governor Defends States Lottery Program for COVID-19 Vaccine

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine (R) on May 26 defended the Buckeye States lottery program to promote COVID-19 vaccines.

The governor made the comments on the day the state was to announce the winner of the first of five $1 million draws and the first of an equal number of winners of a full-ride scholarship to any Ohio state college or university.

The true waste at this point in the pandemic is for someone to die from COVID when thats not necessary, when we have the vaccine that could save their life, DeWine told CNN.

DeWine offered the defense when questioned about the comments of a fellow state Republican, who said the lottery is a waste of taxpayer dollars and basically a bribe.

We need to save lives, he said. We need to get Ohio moving forward. The way we do it is through vaccines. This is our ticket out of the pandemic. This is the great tool that we have now.

DeWine added that vaccinations in his state were going down, similar to the rest of the nation, prior to the lottery programs announcement. The number of people getting the vaccine has since gone up by 45 percent, DeWine said. The biggest jump94 percentoccurred among those 16 and 17 years of age, the governor added.

And you can just hear mom and dad, and you can hear the students thinking, you know, I might get a four-year scholarship. The odds for that are pretty good, DeWine said.

Not only are we going to have a millionaire tonight, not only are we going to have a student who going to be given who is going to be guaranteed room, board, tuition, everything else at our great state universities, but even more important is the number of Ohioans who got vaccinated.

The winners were drawn from a pool of more than 100,000 people, according to DeWine.

As of May 26, 39.2 percent of Ohios population was vaccinated against the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, commonly known as the novel coronavirus, according to the Ohio Department of Health.

The Republican governor announced the states incentive program (pdf), named Ohio Vax-a-Million, on May 12. New York and Maryland on May 20 also announced that they will be rolling out similar vaccine incentive programs.

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo told reporters that New Yorkers who get vaccinated from May 24 to May 28 will be given a lottery ticket with a cash prize of as much as $5 million.

Meanwhile, a vaccinated Marylander will be chosen at random every day for 40 days for a $40,000 prize, ending July 3, Gov. Larry Hogan said. On July 4, one person will receive a grand prize of $400,000.

Zachary Stieber contributed to this report.
Masked students wait in a socially distanced single file line before heading to the cafeteria at Medora Elementary School in Louisville, Ky., on March 17, 2021. (Jon Cherry/Getty Images)

Oklahoma Legislature Passes Bill Banning Mask Mandate, COVID-19 Vaccine Requirements in Schools

The Oklahoma House has passed a bill banning mask mandates in public schools and requirements for students to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

The bill, SB 658, passed the state House by 7618 and was sent to Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt on May 26. The state Senate had passed the bill by 388 a day earlier.

For the sake of children throughout the state, Im glad this bill is one step closer to becoming law, Republican state Sen. Rob Standridge said in a statement. With this legislation, vaccine passports for Oklahoma students will not exist.

Standridge is also one of the authors of the bill.

Parents and students gather to protest wearing masks in schools, in front of The Orange County Board of Education in Costa Mesa, Calif., on May 17, 2021. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

SB 658 (pdf) would prohibit the boards of education of all public school districts and technology center school districtsincluding those of higher educationfrom requiring vaccination against COVID-19 as a condition of admittance to or attendance of the school or institution. It would also prevent vaccine passports or similar documentation from being required.

Standridge explained during the session that the COVID-19 vaccine is different from other vaccines that are currently required, like those against diphtheria or tetanus, because its still under emergency use authorization, News9 reported.

SB 658 further forbids implementing a mask mandate for students who havent received COVID-19 vaccines.

Exceptions include when the governor declares an emergency or after the boards of education consult with their local county health department, but the mask mandate must be reconsidered at each regularly scheduled board meeting.

Democratic lawmakers oppose the bill.

This legislation creates a barrier to local control that prevents locally elected school boards from being able to fully protect their students as they and their constituents see fit, state Rep. Andy Fugate stated in a news release. This is a clear government overreach meant to strip away the personal freedom of Oklahomans wanting to protect their communities.

Republican state Rep. Kevin West, who is also an author of the bill, said: Should the force of government be used to force citizens to do something they dont want to do, or should it be used to empower the rights of citizens?

This protects a students and a parents right to choose for themselves whether a vaccination is appropriate for them for their own personal health reasons or their religious or personal beliefs. This disallows discrimination against students and parents that choose to be exempt from such vaccinations.

Texas and Iowa banned mask mandates in schools and local governments last week. Utah Gov. Spencer Cox also said earlier this month that schools will remove mask mandates for the upcoming school year. A number of states have banned vaccine passports statewide, either through executive orders or legislation.

SB 658 will take effect on July 1 if Stitt signs it into law.

Stitts office didnt immediately respond to The Epoch Times request for comment.

Republicans have the supermajority necessary in both chambers to override a veto by the governor.
People walk along the beach near lifeguard tower 13 in Huntington Beach, Calif., on May 20, 2021. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

Orange County Vaccination Figures Surpass 1.5 Million

More than 1.5 million people in Orange County, California, are fully inoculated against COVID-19, the Orange County Health Care Agency (HCA) says.

Data from its tracking platform revealed on May 26 that 1,500,870 people have completed their vaccination cycles. An additional 351,541 patients received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Were optimistic that we are on the right side of this pandemic and continuing to move in the right direction, County Supervisor Don Wagner told The Epoch Times.

Vaccination figures are rising as California prepares for the full reopening of its economy in mid-June.

On June 15, capacity limits throughout the state will lift on restaurants and shops. Social distancing guidelines will also be dropped.

The state plans on fully aligning with CDC guidelineswhich state that vaccinated people arent required to wear masksbeginning on June 15.

However, the state is planning on enforcing guidelines when it comes to large-scale events. For indoor events, the state will require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test. Although those same rules arent required for similar outdoor events, theyre recommended.

As Orange County officials continue their inoculation efforts, Wagner said theyre facing some resistance.

We are seeing some folks that are resistant to taking the vaccine, and part of that challenge is respecting those who have religious or medical [concerns], Wagner said. [Were] balancing their interest with the need of the community to have a more robust widespread immunity, or at least a lessening of susceptibility to the disease.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, on Capitol Hill in Washington on May 11, 2021. (Greg Nash/Pool/Getty Images)

Republicans Call for Fauci to Be Fired Over Wuhan Lab Controversy

Republican lawmakers have intensified their calls for Dr. Anthony Fauci to be fired after he defended the flow of $600,000 from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China, the lab at the heart of the controversy over the still-unexplained origins of the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus.

Fauci, director of the NIH, said in testimony before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services on May 25 that it wouldve been almost a dereliction of our duty for the NIH not to collaborate with Chinese scientists to study how the virus might jump from animals to humans.

He insisted that the NIH didnt fund so-called gain-of-function research, which he defined as taking a virus that could infect humans and making it either more transmissible and/or pathogenic to humans, at the Wuhan lab, claiming that the purpose of the $600,000 grant was to study the animal-human interface, to do surveillance, and to determine if these bat viruses were even capable of transmitting infection to humans.

Fauci was further pressed about the matter during a Senate hearing on May 26, with Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) questioning Faucis faith in the Wuhan labs scientists, whom Fauci had called very respectable just one day prior.

How do you know they didnt lie to you and use the money for gain-of-function research anyway? Kennedy asked Fauci.

Fauci acknowledged he couldnt be certain whether the money was used against its intended purpose.

You never know, he said.

Following Faucis remarks, Rep. Warren Davidson (R-Ohio) called for his removal. In an appearance on Fox and Friends on May 27, Davidson accused Fauci of providing cover for China amid Beijings resistance to a transparent probe into the origins of the outbreak.

People like Dr. Fauci have provided cover for them. The World Health Organization [is] providing cover for them. And very shockingly, many of our fellow countrymen have provided cover for China. Theyd rather blame Republicans or Donald Trump. And thats why political science should not be able to trump science. And Dr. Fauci has led that charge. He needs to be fired, he said.

Davidson had earlier introduced the Fauci Incompetence Requires Early Dismissal (FIRED) Act, which sets a 12-year term limit for appointees serving in the capacity of the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, a post Fauci has held since 1984.

Another Republican lawmaker who has called for Faucis dismissal, Rep. Guy Reschenthaler (R-Pa.), told Fox and Friends on May 27 that he believes Fauci is either grossly incompetent or hes been lying to the American people, and that he should be fired or resign.

Reschenthaler argued that Fauci misled the public in the early stages of the pandemic with regard to mask guidance.

Right now in the United States, people should not be walking around with masks, Fauci said in March 2020.

He later clarified that he meant that masks should be prioritized for health workers, but Reschenthaler insisted that Fauci had lied.

He blatantly lied to Congress about masks and the American people, saying they dont help, and then he said, Oh no, I was lying so we could hoard [personal protective equipment],' Reschenthaler said.

The Pennsylvania Republican also objected to Fauci initially dismissing the theory that the CCP virus had originated in and escaped from the Wuhan lab.

In May 2020, Fauci largely dismissed the lab leak theory, telling National Geographic, If you look at the evolution of the virus in bats and whats out there now, [the scientific evidence] is very, very strongly leaning toward this could not have been artificially or deliberately manipulated.

Recently, Fauci said hes no longer certain that COVID-19 developed naturally, and called for an open investigation into the origins of the virus.

I am not convinced about that. I think we should continue to investigate what went on in China until we continue to find out to the best of our ability what happened, Fauci said at a fact-checking symposium on May 11.

Certainly, the people who investigated it say it likely was the emergence from an animal reservoir that then infected individuals, but it could have been something else, and we need to find that out. Thats the reason why I said Im perfectly in favor of any investigation that looks into the origin of the virus.

The Wuhan facility, home of Chinas only P4 laba class of laboratory with the highest level of biosecurity where research on the worlds most dangerous diseases are conductedhas been in the spotlight amid concerns that the CCP virus may have originated there, rather than by making a natural jump from bats to humans.

Republican members of the House Intelligence Committee argued in a May 19 report (pdf) that its more likely the virus escaped from the lab.

The CCP has denied any link between the viruss origin and the Wuhan lab and has pushed a natural zoonotic hypothesisthat the virus was transmitted to humans from an animal host. However, Beijing has so far failed to identify the original animal species that allegedly passed the virus on to humans.

A staff member wearing a face shield walks through a bus station in Wuhan in central Chinas Hubei province on April 30, 2020. (STR/AFP via Getty Images)

A report from the World Health Organization (WHO) published in March stated that the CCP virus likely spread to people through an unknown animal, but WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the mission to study the origin of the virus didnt adequately analyze other theories.

As far as WHO is concerned, all hypotheses remain on the table  We have not yet found the source of the virus, Ghebreyesus said.

On May 25, the United States urged the WHO to launch a fresh probe into the source of the CCP virus, highlighting the need for transparency.

Phase 2 of the COVID origins study must be launched with terms of reference that are transparent, science-based, and give international experts the independence to fully assess the source of the virus and the early days of the outbreak, said Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra in remarks to the 74th World Health Assembly.

More than a dozen nations, including the United States and the European Union, have raised concerns about the phase one WHO study into the origin of the virus, pointing to the reports significant delay and Chinas refusal to share crucial raw data.

President Joe Biden announced on May 26 that he has ordered a closer intelligence review of what he characterized as two equally plausible scenarios of the origins of the CCP virusone natural, the other a lab leak.

Lily Zhou contributed to this report.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 08:49:59|Editor: huaxia

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BAMAKO -- Malian transitional President Bah N'Daw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane, arrested by the military on Monday following the formation of a new transitional government, have resigned, the special adviser to the transitional vice president confirmed on Wednesday evening during a press conference.

"The transitional president, Bah N'Daw, resigned from all his responsibilities with all the consequences of rights. Just like the head of government..." announced Baba Cisse, special advisor to Assimi Goita, Malian transitional vice president and president of the former National Committee for the Salvation of the People (CNSP). (Mali-Resignation-President)

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SAN FRANCISCO -- U.S. San Francisco Mayor London Breed on Wednesday announced a new initiative to support women and families with children.

The Women and Families First Initiative will provide targeted job training for 300 women in industries that are expected to grow during San Francisco's economic recovery and will support approximately 800 children with childcare tuition credits, the announcement said. (US-San Francisco-Initiative)

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UNITED NATIONS -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday called for solidarity with Africa in the fight against COVID-19 and recovery from the pandemic.

"We need to move toward sustainable economic growth that protects the environment, promotes human rights and strengthens the social contract. And we need a stronger sense of solidarity and multilateral cooperation to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and leave no one behind. Now for that to be possible, we also need to express a very clear solidarity with the African continent in this dramatic moment in which we are still under the terrible impact of the COVID-19 pandemic," he told the opening of the Africa Dialogue Series 2021, a series of high-level public policy debates. (UN-Africa-Solidarity)

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THE HAGUE -- A Dutch court ruled Wednesday that oil giant Royal Dutch Shell (RDS) must reduce its carbon emissions by net 45 percent by 2030 from 2019 levels.

"The court has come to the conclusion that RDS is obliged to ensure through the Shell group's corporate policy that the CO2 emissions of the Shell group, its suppliers and its customers are reduced," read the judgment of the District Court of The Hague. The case was launched by a group of environmental NGOs. (Dutch Court-Shell-Carbon Emissions) Enditem
Retired US Military Couple Shot Dead In Cold Blood on Front Lawn Outside Virginia Home

Police in Virginia have launched a manhunt for suspects accused of the shooting deaths of a married couple with past military experience, officials confirmed Wednesday.

Edward McDaniel Jr., 55, and his wife Brenda McDaniel, 63, were gunned down around 9:30 p.m. in the front yard of their own home located on Flint Street in Springfield, officials said during a press briefing.

We responded to a brutal double murder, where a man and a womana husband and a wifetwo distinguished military veterans, were gunned down in their front yard, Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis said.

They served our community for many many years  they were shot and killed in cold blood, he added.

Authorities are still searching for possible suspects in the double homicide and have released information about a 2018 light-colored Nissan Altima with Maryland plate number 1EF1479 which fled the scene at the time of the crime.

Both victims were retired from the military and served as medical professionals. They were declared dead at the scene by rescue personnel after suffering from multiple gunshot wounds, authorities said.

They were both physicians, honorable soldiers, and members of the United States military serviceboth retired, said Ed OCarroll, bureau chief of Major Crimes Cyber and Forensics for the Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD).

They did nothing wrong, he added.

OCarroll explained that detectives believe the homicide is related to an attempted burglary that was reported on Monday at the home of the McDaniels, though the investigation is still ongoing and a motive is currently unclear.

I think theres a direct correlation between who was there Monday and who was there today, the major said, adding that the key to the investigation is finding the light-colored Nissan Altima and its driver.

OCarroll said a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest of the person(s) responsible is being offered. Those with information can call the department at 703-691-2131.

The deaths of the married couple marked the ninth and tenth homicides in Fairfax County this year, OCarroll said, while stressing that those deaths are nine and ten too many.

From NTD News
Santa Ana Outlines $130 Million Federal Aid Spending Plan

The city of Santa Ana, California, on May 24 revealed its spending strategy for the $130 million in federal funds it will receive through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

The funds will be delivered to the citys designated departments in two tranches, one year apart. Santa Ana will receive $79.5 million in the first installment.

The city is confined to using the ARPAs guidelines for funding in the following areas: economic aid to households, small businesses, nonprofits, tourism, and hospitality; premium pay for essential workers; government services affected by a revenue reduction resulting from the CCP virus; private nonprofit groups, public benefit transportation corporations, and special-purpose units of state or local governments.

The city proposes spending $6 million on recovery from the pandemic through local vaccinations, expansion of critical city communications methods, and sanitization efforts.

An additional $20.6 million is budgeted for direct assistance programs, such as the emergency rental assistance program, housing vouchers, food distribution, and reopening assistance to businesses.

Santa Ana plans to spend $14 million on public health and safety, with most of that amount funding additional green space at Santa Anita Park, healthy food access, and upgraded park restrooms.

About $24 million will be spent on critical infrastructure, including affordable broadband access, improvements to the central library, and pedestrian and mobility improvements.

About $14.9 million will be spent on city fiscal health to go toward revenue lost in certain government services.

The city wants to allocate $38.4 million to reduce and respond to homelessness, including navigation centers and homeless shelters, street outreach, and clean-up.

The federal aid comes from ARPA, a $350 billion fund to help states, counties, and cities recover lost revenue and mitigate economic harm from the CCP virus pandemic.
Sen. McConnell Blasts Progressives Attack on Policing, Rise in Violent Crime

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) condemned progressive Democrats call to defund police departments during 2020, saying that the far lefts ranting about defunding the police has become official Democratic Party dogma and is contributing to violent crimes across the nation.

From coast to coast, American families are facing an explosion of violent crime on their streets and in their neighborhoods. 2020 saw homicides skyrocket nationwide. The sharpest one-year increase in decades. And 2021 is already shaping up to be even worse. Crime and delinquency have many causes. In some ways, the pandemic likely contributed, McConnell said from the Senate floor on Thursday. But it is impossible to ignore that these terrible trends are coming precisely as so-called progressives have decided its time to denounce and defund local law enforcement, said McConnell.

Progressives in the Democrat party, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), Rep. Rashid Tlaib (D-Mich.), Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.), Rep. Cory Bush (D-Mo.), and many top Democrat leaders have been calling for taking money from police departments and putting into social services or dismantling the police.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) speaks as Reps. Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.), Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), and Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.) listen during a press conference in Washington on July 15, 2019. (Alex Wroblewski/Getty Images)

In 2020, at a rally following the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer, Omar called the department rotten to its core.

I will never stop saying, Not only do we need to disinvest from police but we need to completely dismantle the Minneapolis Police Department, she said, calling the police department a cancer.

In April of 2021, after what the police said was an accidental shooting of a black man, Tlaib condemned law enforcement as being racist.

It wasnt an accident. Policing in our country is inherently & intentionally racist. Daunte Wright was met with aggression & violence. I am done with those who condone government-funded murder. No more policing, incarceration, and militarization. It cant be reformed, wrote Tlaib.

Protesters gather in front of a liquor store in flames near the Third Police Precinct in Minneapolis, Minn., on May 28, 2020. (Kerem Yucel/AFP via Getty Images)

According to the National Fraternal Order of Police, murder rates have skyrocketed in cities where the government has defunded the police. As of May 25, the murder rate in Philadelphia was up 40 percent, in Minneapolis 56 percent, in Portland 800 percent, in New York City 22 percent, in Chicago 22 percent, in Los Angeles 27 percent, and in Washington D.C. 35 percent YTD.

A number of city officials that last year planned to defund departments are now walking back statements to go through with cutting funding to law enforcement due to surges in crime levels.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, a Democrat, announced in May that hes pushing to increase funding to the citys police departmentcoming about a year after George Floyds death in police custody, which sparked the Black Lives Matter protests, riots, and arson attacks across Minneapolis.

The violence needs to stop; its unacceptable, he said earlier in May during a news conference, which came amid a massive spike in violence in the city.

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, a Democrat, announced this month that his city is building a police precinct in Queens to deal with a spate in rising crimecoming months after he pledged to cut $1 billion from the NYPDs budget. The city has cut far less from the police department than the pledged $1 billion.

So, look, Im not sure exactly how the rantings of far-left Twitter about crime and policing became official Democratic Party dogma in so many places across America. What I do know is that ordinary Americans cannot bear much more of this. And that goes double for the most vulnerable neighborhoods, said McConnell.

The defund the police movement has also seen its support plummet since last summer, according to various polls. A recent survey in March showed that just 18 percent of Americans support the cause.

Jack Phillips contributed to this report.
Senate Passes Hawley, Braun Bill for Biden Admin to Declassify Intel on Wuhan Lab

The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed a bill that seeks to require President Joe Bidens administration declassify all intelligence relating to the origin of COVID-19, including information about what happened at the Wuhan laboratory at the start of the pandemic.

Republican Sens. Josh Hawley (Miss.) and Mike Braun (Ind.) submitted their proposal, known as the COVID-19 Origin Act of 2021, to require that the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) declassify to Americans U.S. intelligence on the alleged links between Chinas Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) and the origins of the CCP virus last month. The bill was passed by unanimous consent.

Hawley told the Senate floor on Wednesday that the bill gives an opportunity to the American public to evaluate the evidence for themselves, adding that this is only the first step.

They deserve it. Their government owes it to them, and its time to act, Hawley said. And the American people deserve something else. They deserve to have this government hold accountable that nation which started this virus, whose lies about this virus turned it into a global pandemic, whose lies about this virus prevented our country and many others from being able to address it effectively in timeof course Im talking about China.

If enacted, the documents that could be declassified could pertain to activities performed by the Wuhan Institute of Virology with or on behalf of the Peoples Liberation Army, coronavirus research or other related activities performed at the Wuhan Institute of Virology prior to the outbreak of COVID19, and information about researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Virology who fell ill in Autumn 2019.

The DNI will then be required to present a report to Congress containing the declassified information within 90 days of the bills potential enactment.

The DNIs press office did not immediately respond to The Epoch Times request for comment.

Americans have been through so much from this virus. President Biden must declassify all U.S. intel related to the Wuhan lab and COVID-19 pandemic, so the American people and independent researchers can get answers. Im proud the Senate passed @HawleyMOs and my bill to do it. pic.twitter.com/UyztaV5lL8  Senator Mike Braun (@SenatorBraun) May 27, 2021

Sen. Braun added, President Biden must declassify all U.S. intel related to the Wuhan lab and COVID-19 pandemic, so the American people and independent researchers can get answers.

This comes as calls for a new probe into the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus ramps up amid widespread concerns that the pandemic may have stemmed from a laboratory accident.

Earlier this week, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, in remarks to the virtual 74th World Health Assembly, called for the WHO to launch a transparent second phase to the investigation.

Phase 2 of the COVID origins study must be launched with terms of reference that are transparent, science-based, and give international experts the independence to fully assess the source of the virus and the early days of the outbreak, he said.

The comments come after The Wall Street Journal reported on May 23 that three researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Virology were hospitalized in November 2019 with symptoms consistent with seasonal flu and COVID-19, the disease caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus. The newspaper cited unnamed U.S. government sources familiar with a previously undisclosed U.S. intelligence report.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki, when asked about the matter on May 24, said that the Biden administration has repeatedly called for the WHO to support an expert-driven evaluation of the pandemics origins that is free from interference or politicization.

Now, there were phase one results that came through. We were notduring that first phase of the investigation, there was not access to data, there was not information provided. And now, were hopeful that WHO can move into a more transparent, independent phase two investigation, Psaki said.

Janita Kan and Mimi Nguyen-Ly contributed to this report.

Update: This article has been updated to include more details about the bill.
More States Set to Ban Critical Race Theory in Government

A growing number of states are passing laws prohibiting inculcation of the quasi-Marxist critical race theory (CRT) in schools and other government institutions, in response to mounting opposition to the ideology.

Governors from Tennessee, Idaho, Arkansas, and Oklahoma have already signed anti-CRT bills. In Texas, Arizona, and Iowa, similar legislation is awaiting signatures from their governors.

North Carolina and Utah have passed anti-CRT bills in one legislative chamber thus far. Lawmakers in several more states have proposed such bills, but havent had much success pushing them through.

CRT redefines human history as a struggle between oppressorswhite peopleand the oppressedeverybody elsesimilar to Marxisms reduction of history to a struggle between the bourgeois and the proletariat. It labels institutions that emerged in majority-white societies as racist and white supremacist, and has gradually proliferated in recent decades from academia to government structures, school systems, and the corporate world.

Proponents of CRT have argued that the theory is demonstrating how pervasive systemic racism truly is. Critics say the theorys argument about systemic racism is riddled with fallacies and includes totalitarian elements of coercion and suppression of dissent.

Some of the bills aim to keep CRT out of the classroom, while others are limited to bans on CRT-based training for government workers.

The measures dont mention CRT specifically, but focus on its tenets, such as banning inculcation of divisive concepts that claim, for instance, that an individual, by virtue of his or her race or sex, is inherently racist, sexist, or oppressive, whether consciously or unconsciously and that an individual, by virtue of his or her race or sex, bears responsibility for actions committed in the past by other members of the same race or sex.

The bills usually include a clause that makes clear teachers are free to talk about CRT or related topics, as long as they dont endorse such divisive concepts.

Some governors, such as Ron DeSantis in Florida and Kristi Noem in South Dakota, havent been presented with a CRT ban to sign, but have taken other actions against CRT. Florida is working on a new civics curriculum that will explicitly exclude CRT. It appears the state is also interpreting its existing anti-discrimination rules as applicable against CRT.

The Biden administration is pushing in the opposite direction. The Education Department outlined new priority criteria last month for a $5.3 million American History and Civics Education grant, as well as exemplary materials for K-12 educators. The department cited the 1619 Project and Ibram X. Kendis antiracist ideaboth of which are underpinned by CRT as leading examples of the kind of content it wants to promote in history and civics classrooms across the country.

The grant offer was part of the reason that Tennessee Rep. John Ragan introduced the states anti-CRT legislation as a preemptive strike, he told The Epoch Times.

His other reason was a stream of complaints from constituents across the state, he said.

Many parents first learned about CRT when schools switched to virtual instruction in response to the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus pandemic last year, and parents got a chance to see what their children were learning. A growing number of teachers and other school staff have blown the whistle on CRT proliferation in their schools.

The language of Ragans bill was inspired by the executive order issued last year by President Donald Trump that banned federal agencies, contractors, subcontractors, and grantees from instructing their employees to follow CRT tenets. President Joe Biden has since rescinded that order.
Texas Legislature Passes Bill to Ban Abortion If Roe v. Wade Is Overturned

The Texas legislature on Tuesday passed a bill that would ban abortion in the state if the U.S. Supreme Court one day overturns Roe v. Wade.

The proposed legislation, HB 1280, would be enacted in the event that Roe v. Wade gets overturned. It would, 30 days after a Supreme Court ruling, make it illegal for a person in the state to knowingly perform, induce, or attempt an abortion.

The bill, which had passed the state House in early May, is called the Human Life Protection Act. It now heads to Gov. Greg Abbotts desk. The Republican governor is expected to sign the bill into law, which would make the Lone Star state the latest in passing a trigger abortion ban.

Abortion providers can be exempted for abortions carried out in the case of medical emergencies that harm the life of the mother or puts them at risk of substantial impairment of major bodily functions.

The text of the bill notes, however, that an abortion provider is prohibited from carrying out or inducing an abortion if they did so because of a claim or diagnosis that the female would engage in conduct that might result in the female s death or in substantial impairment of a major bodily function.

There are also no exceptions for pregnancies due to rape or incest.

Abortion providers could face at least $100,000 for each attempted abortion committed, and would be charged with at least a second degree felony, which is punishable by two to 20 years in prison in Texas. If the unborn child dies as a result of the abortion, the abortion provider would be charged with a first degree felony, which is punishable by five to 99 years in prison.

I believe all Texans deserve the opportunity to experience life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said at a hearing for HB 1280 last week, reported The Dallas Morning News. I believe House Bill 1280, and the companion Senate Bill 9, is the appropriate vehicle to ensure that this right is immediately protected should the Supreme Court overturn the current precedent.

State Rep. Giovanni Capriglione, the primary author of the bill, expressed excitement over the legislations approval in the Texas Senate. He said on Twitter, With a pro-life lawsuit heading to the conservative SCOTUS, this bill and a favorable ruling would make Texas one of the first states to end abortions.

The U.S. Supreme Court recently took on a major abortion case to consider an appeal from Mississippi. The state appealed against a lower court ruling that had reversed a Mississippi statute that bans most abortion after 15 weeks of pregnancy. The case would grant the Supreme Court the opportunity to reconsider abortion rulings, including Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey.

The Roe v. Wade ruling in 1973 prohibited states from banning abortions prior to when the fetus is deemed viablepotentially able to live outside its mothers womb. The ruling said that if unborn children are persons, then they have the right to life. It concluded that unborn children are not persons, and acknowledged that the case to prohibit states from banning abortions would collapse if the fetus is a person, because then its right to life would then be guaranteed by the Constitution.

Abbott recently signed into law a measure to ban abortions if a heartbeat is detected in the fetus, unless there is a medical emergency threatening the mothers life. A heartbeat can be detected as early as six weeks into a pregnancy.

The heartbeat bill is now LAW in the Lone Star State, he said in a statement on May 19. This bill ensures the life of every unborn child with a heartbeat will be saved from the ravages of abortion.
Trade Representative Katherine Tai speaks during a hearing with the House Ways and Means committee at Capitol Hill in Washington, on May 13, 2021. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Trade Chief Tai Says US Faces Very Large Challenges on China

WASHINGTON/BEIJINGU.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai said on Wednesday that the United States still faces very large challenges in its trade and economic relationship with China that require the Biden administrations attention across the board.

Tai spoke with Reuters in an interview before her first virtual call with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, a meeting in which she raised issues of concern, according to her office.

During their candid exchange, Ambassador Tai discussed the guiding principles of the Biden-Harris administrations worker-centered trade policy and her ongoing review of the U.S.-China trade relationship, while also raising issues of concern, the USTR said.

Chinas commerce ministry described the talks as a candid, pragmatic, and constructive exchange.

Both sides view the development of bilateral trade as very important. [Both sides] exchanged views on issues of mutual concern and agreed to maintain communication.

The meeting marked the first formal engagement between the trade chiefs of the worlds two largest economies since U.S. President Joe Biden took office in January.

It came at a time when Biden has sharply criticized China on human rights abuses and sought to rally his Group of Seven rich nation allies to form a united front on China.

Chinas handling of the COVID-19 pandemicwhich has now killed more than 3 million people worldwidehas also rankled the United States and its allies.

Chinese Vice Premier Liu He attends the opening session of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, on May 21, 2020. (Carlos Garcia Rawlins/File Photo/Reuters)

Biden on Wednesday ordered aides to investigate rival theories held by U.S. intelligence agencies on the origin of the virus, including the possibility of a laboratory accident in China. China said it supported a thorough investigation but warned the United States to avoid politicizing the issue.

The Biden administration is conducting a comprehensive review of U.S.-China trade policy, ahead of the expiry of the Phase 1 deal at the end of 2021.

Challenges Still There

Tai told Reuters the Phase 1 trade deal was important but only part of a complex relationship.

The overall challenges that we have with China are also still there and they are very large, Tai said.

Tai said the Phase 1 trade deal should be seen in the context of the overall U.S.-China trade, and economic relationship which is very, very challenging. And requires our attention all across the board.

The two countries signed the trade deal in January 2020just before the COVID-19 pandemic began. It calls for China to increase purchases of U.S. agricultural goods, manufactured products, energy, and services by $200 billion over 2020 and 2021, compared with a 2017 baseline.

The deal eased a two-year tariff war between the United States and China waged by former President Donald Trump that aimed to change Chinas trade practices, although duties remain in place on hundreds of billions of dollars of trade.

Cargo containers are loaded on container ships at a port in Qingdao, a city in eastern Chinas Shandong Province, on April 8, 2018. (AFP via Getty Images)

The Biden administration has promised a similarly muscular pushback on Chinas state-driven economic model, with new investments in innovation to maintain a U.S. technological edge.

China fell about 40 percent short of its purchase targets in 2020, and is still lagging in its imports in 2021, with just seven months to go in the two-year deal.

Through 2020, Chinas total imports of covered products from the United States were $99.9 billion, compared with the commitment of $173.1 billion, according to the Peterson Institute for International Economics.

China also agreed to ease barriers in its financial services sector and agricultural biotechnology regulations, as well as to take steps to protect U.S. intellectual property.

The deal failed to address fundamental U.S. concerns about technology transfer and massive subsidies for state-owned enterprisesissues that the Trump administration had said it would address in a second phase trade agreement.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau rises during question period in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on May 26, 2021. (Sean Kilpatrick/The Canadian Press)

Trudeau Supports Search for COVID-19 Origin

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says he supports international efforts to understand how the global pandemic began.

I know there are a lot of theories out there but we need to make sure we are getting to a full and complete airing of the facts to actually understand what happened, Trudeau said on May 27.

U.S. President Joe Biden ordered U.S. intelligence officials on May 26 to redouble efforts to investigate the origins of the CCP virus, including any possibility the trail might lead to a Chinese laboratory.

The P4 laboratory building at the Wuhan Institute of Virology is shown in Wuhan, China, on May 13, 2020. (Hector Retamal/AFP via Getty Images)

Trudeau said these efforts will not only ensure accountability but could also provide insight into how to protect the world from future pandemics.

Biden said in a statement on May 26 that the U.S. Intelligence Community has coalesced around two likely scenarios but has not reached a definitive conclusion on this question.

Here is their current position: while two elements in the IC leans toward the former scenario and one leans more toward the lattereach with low or moderate confidencethe majority of elements do not believe there is sufficient information to assess one to be more likely than the other,' Biden said.

Amanda Schoch, assistant director of U.S. national intelligence for strategic communications, said on May 27 that U.S. intelligence officials are continuing to examine evidence and collect and analyze information to identify the origin of the virus.

The UK government on May 24 asked the World Health Organization to explore all possible theories while investigating the origins of the virus.

The Wall Street Journal reported on May 23 that three researchers from Chinas Wuhan Institute of Virology sought hospital care with COVID-like symptoms in November 2019about a month before the appearance of patient zero identified by the Chinese communist regime.

With files from The Canadian Press
The FBI seal is seen before a news conference at FBI headquarters in Washington, D.C., on June 14, 2018. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)

2 Former Top Bolivian Officials Charged in Bribery Scheme

U.S. authorities have charged two former top officials of the government of Bolivia in connection with an international bribery and money laundering scheme.

Arturo Carlos Murillo Prijic, the former minister of the Bolivian government, and Sergio Rodrigo Mendez Mendizabal, his former chief of staff, each face up to 20 years imprisonment on money laundering charges as part of a bribery scheme designed to secure a Bolivian Ministry of Defense contract for a U.S. firm, according to a May 26 statement from Department of Justice announcing the charges.

An attorney for Murillo didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. Mendez didnt have an attorney listed as of May 26.

Mendez and Murillo allegedly received the bribes and used the U.S. financial system to launder the illicit funds. According to the indictment (pdf), Luis Berkman, Bryan Berkman, and Philip Lichtenfeld paid Murillo, Mendez, and another Bolivian government official $602,000 in bribes.

The bribes were paid so that Bryan Berkmans Florida-based company would obtain and retain business from the Bolivian Ministry of Defense, specifically, an approximately $5.6 million contract to provide to the Bolivian Ministry of Defense tear gas and other non-lethal equipment, a press release from the DOJ stated.

Luis Berkman, Bryan Berkman, and Lichtenfeld also face up to 20 years in prison for money laundering.

Attorneys for Lichtenfeld and Berkman didnt respond to requests for comment by press time.

Murillo served as the minister of the government of Bolivia from November 2019 to November 2020, during the interim government of Jeanine Anez. In August 2020, Murillo faced criticism for threatening to shoot activists who were protesting the 2020 general elections. In March and October 2020, he failed to appear in response to summonses issued by Bolivias assembly to answer questions regarding the massacres in Senkata and Sacata. The assembly subsequently censured Murillo and called for his resignation.

Murillo fled to the United States after resigning in November 2020. Murillo and Bolivian Minister of Defense Luis Fernando Lopez were under investigation at the time over embezzlement in the purchase of riot control equipment. Its unclear if the purchase is the same as the one at the center of the U.S. indictment.

Bolivia formalized an indictment against Lopez and Murillo in January.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock speaks during a visit to the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro, England, on May 24, 2021. (Hugh Hastings/Getty Images)

UK Ministers Reject Former Aides Allegations on COVID-19 Response

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Health Secretary Matt Hancock have defended themselves against allegations made by Dominic Cummings, Johnsons former top advisor in Number 10.

Giving evidence on Wednesday to the health and science committees of the House of Commons, Cummings said the government had failed the public during the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus pandemic, causing thousands of people to die unnecessarily.

Former number 10 special adviser Dominic Cummings arrives at Portcullis House in London on May 26, 2021. (Daniel Leal-Olivas/AFP via Getty Images)

He said his former boss is unfit to be prime minister, and said the health secretary should have been fired for lying on multiple occasions.

In response, Hancock said the allegations were unsubstantiated and were not true.

Answering questions on Thursday in the House of Commons, he said: Ive been straight with people in public and in private throughout. Every day since I began working on the response to this pandemic last January, Ive got up each morning and asked what must I do to protect life? That is the job of a health secretary in a pandemic.

On a visit to the Colchester Hospital, Boris Johnson also faced difficult questions.

Britains Prime Minister Boris Johnson visits Colchester hospital in Colchester, eastern England, on May 27, 2021. (Glyn Kirk/Pool/AFP via Getty Images)

Asked if he agreed with Cummings allegation, Johnson said: No, I dont think so, but of course this has been an incredibly difficult series of decisions, none of which weve taken lightly.

Weve been governed by a determination to protect life to save life, to ensure that our NHS is not overwhelmed.

Commenting on Cummingss allegations, Johnson said: Some of the commentary Ive heard doesnt bear any relation to reality. And what people want us to get on with is delivering the road map, and trying cautiously, to take our country forward through what has been one of the most difficult periods that I think anybody can remember post war.

Responding to Cummings testimony, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said an inquiry into the governments handling of the pandemic should be brought forward.

I was very concerned about the repeated mistakes from the first wave into the second wave, and in particular the slowness to lock down in the autumn, and I think the prime minister got that completely wrong.

There are consequences and this is what all these allegations are about and thats why the inquiry needs to be fast-forwarded, and we cant have this drip, drip, drip of allegations, and we need to get to the bottom of it.

Reuters and PA contributed to this report.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 09:10:57|Editor: huaxia

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LIMA, May 26 (Xinhua) -- Peruvian President Francisco Sagasti on Wednesday called for calm in the upcoming presidential runoff on June 6 between conservative candidate Keiko Fujimori, of the right-wing Popular Force party, and her rival Pedro Castillo, of the left-wing Free Peru party.

Sagasti urged "all citizens and the candidates in the runoff to remain calm, preserve order and accept the outcome" of what is expected to be a tight race.

Speaking at an event marking the 60th anniversary of the National Jury of Elections, which oversees the electoral process, Sagasti highlighted the work carried out by the election body.

The president said that his administration is not favoring any candidate and guarantees transparent elections.

"It did, it does, and it will maintain strict neutrality and will not give in to undue, untimely and unfounded pressure that tries to question our impartiality," said Sagasti.

Some 25.2 million Peruvians are eligible to elect a successor to Sagasti for the 2021-2026 term. Enditem
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken departs after gives a press conference in the Jordanian capital Amman, on May 26, 2021. (Alex Brandon/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

US Condemns Beijings Retaliatory Move to Ban Former Religious Freedom Official

Secretary of State Antony Blinken condemned the Chinese regimes retaliatory sanction on a former U.S. religious freedom official, saying that Beijings intimidation tactics wouldnt deter international scrutiny.

Beijings attempts to intimidate and silence those speaking out for human rights and fundamental freedoms, including freedom of religion or belief, only draw additional international attention and scrutiny to its egregious abuses, Blinken said in a statement on May 27, a day after the regime blacklisted a former U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) commissioner.

Blinken, elaborating on those abuses, pointed to the ongoing crimes against humanity and genocide in Xinjiang, as well as its repression of religious and spiritual adherents, including Tibetan Buddhists, Christians, and Falun Gong practitioners.

The May 26 sanction on Johnnie Moore, an evangelical pastor who has twice served on USCIRF, came after the State Department under the Biden administration punished the first Chinese official for his role in suppressing the meditation discipline Falun Gong.

It also made Moore the third USCIRF commissioner to be sanctioned under the regimes tit-for-tat sanctions over Chinas abuses of religious freedom.

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which is atheist, allows only five religionsBuddhism, Taoism, Islam, Catholicism, and Christianityto exist under its tight state control. Adherents of the faith group Falun Gong, which had roughly 70 million to 100 million followers by the late 1990s, have lived under constant threats of detention, slave labor, and even organ harvesting since the regime began to persecute the practice in 1999. Experts have warned that the regime has refined its persecution tactics through the relentless campaign against Falun Gong and deployed those tactics on other religious minorities, such as the Uyghurs in Xinjiang Province.

The United States will continue to speak out for human rights, including those enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and promote accountability for the CCPs abuses, Blinken said.

Moore told The Epoch Times he saw the sanction as a badge of honor.

I referred to China as the worlds worst human rights violator, and it isI dont even think that the Communist Party in China denies that fact, Moore said in an interview on Thursday. They just somehow think its justified and that the rules of the world dont apply to them.

Rev. Johnnie Moore speaks onstage at The Simon Wiesenthal Centers 2017 National Tribute Dinner at The Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif., on April 5, 2017. (Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)

Moore suggested that he may have drawn the regimes wrath for his efforts in advocating for persecuted religious groups in China. He had advised the Biden transition team back in January to make human rights a priority in China policy. He also adopted Hong Kong activist Jimmy Lai, a Christian and publisher of local newspaper Apple Daily who has been jailed for taking part in pro-democracy protests, through the Religious Prisoners of Conscience Project.

If the cost of holding a Chinese official to account for grotesque human rights abuses is something like this, I more than welcome it, he said.

USCIRF similarly appeared unbowed to the Chinese pressure.

The sanction targeting the commission is counterproductive, at best, USCIRF Chair Anurima Bhargava said.

It will only draw more international attention to the atrocities and horrors being perpetrated by the Chinese government against the Uyghurs, Tibetan Buddhists, Christians, Falun Gong practitioners, and countless other Chinese citizens.

USCIRF Vice Chair Tony Perkins, who was sanctioned by Beijing along with former Chair Gayle Manchin as well as Canadian, UK, and European officials over the Xinjiang row, congratulated Moore for joining a growing list of government officials and human rights activists  who the brutal Chinese Communist regime has sanctioned for criticizing its oppressive policies and religious freedom violations.

We will continue to work unflinchingly with our international partners to hold the CCP accountable for its atrocious religious freedom violations, Perkins said.
Roundup products are seen for sale at a hardware store in San Rafael, Calif., on July, 9, 2018. (Josh Edelson/AFP/Getty Images)

US Judge Rejects Bayers $2 Billion Deal to Resolve Future Roundup Lawsuits as Unreasonable

A U.S. judge rejected Bayers $2 billion class action proposal to resolve future lawsuits alleging its Roundup weedkiller causes cancer, saying in a Wednesday order that parts of the plan were clearly unreasonable.

U.S. District Court Judge Vince Chhabria in San Francisco said the proposal would accomplish a lot for Monsanto, which Bayer acquired for $63 billion in 2018, and would accomplish far less for the Roundup users who are currently healthy.

The agreement would have paused litigation linking Roundup to non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) for four years and would have barred Roundup users from seeking punitive damages once the pause on litigation expired.

In return, users could be eligible for free medical exams and compensation if they were diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

The proposed class action settlement was aimed at claims by people who have been exposed to the weedkiller and who become sick in the future.

Separately, Bayer has committed up to $9.6 billion to resolve ongoing claims of people who blame glyphosatethe main active ingredient in Roundupor an existing illness. The companys chief executive told analysts this month that 90,000 existing claims have been resolved and 30,000 are still being negotiated.

A bridge is decorated with the logo of a Bayer AG, a German pharmaceutical and chemical maker in Wuppertal, Germany, on Aug. 9, 2019. (Wolfgang Rattay/Reuters)

The company has said that decades of studies have shown that Roundup and glyphosate are safe for human use. Bayer did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the judges decision.

No Closure

Bayer has been criticized by consumer advocates for fighting efforts to add a warning label to Roundup or pull it from the herbicide market, which it dominates along with other glyphosate products.

Chhabria had suggested a warning label might provide a way to prevent future lawsuits, which are based on the theory that Bayer failed to warn consumers of Roundups link to cancer.

Bayer has called the class action settlement proposal one of the building blocks to provide closure on the Roundup litigation.

Leslie Brueckner, an attorney with Public Justice, which objected to the proposal, called the ruling important for public health and said the risk of substantial punitive damages might force Bayer to change.

Chhabrias ruling meant the company faced continued lawsuits, she said.

Monsantos Roundup is shown for sale in Encinitas, Calif., on June 26, 2017. (Mike Blake/Reuters)

So as long as Roundup stays on the market, Bayer will continue to be sued by Roundup victims who get NHL, said Brueckner. That means no closure.

The four-year plan would have grouped potentially millions of residential users and farm laborers in a class and provided them the medical exams and up to $200,000 if they were diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Chhabrias six-page order cast doubt on the value of the medical exam offer, given the 10-year to 15-year lag time between exposure and potential onset of cancer symptoms.

He also said most claimants could expect $60,000 or less in compensation and that compensation might not be available after the plan expired.

Attorneys for the class said at last weeks hearing that Bayer could extend the agreement and provide additional compensation.

The judge also questioned how healthy users of Roundup could be adequately notified of a settlement that bound them in the future if they develop NHL.

Mere tweaks cannot salvage the agreement, Chhabria said.

By Tom Hals
President Joe Biden and South Korean President Moon Jae-in (not shown) participate in a joint press conference in the East Room of the White House, in Washington, on May 21, 2021. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

US Restructures Supply Chains With South Korea and Taiwan to Decouple from CCP

On May 21, 2021, U.S. President Joe Biden met with South Korean President Moon Jae-in at the White House. On the same day, Biden and Moon issued a joint statement, stating that the United States and South Korea will strengthen cooperation in areas of advanced technology, vaccines, climate issues, economics, and many others. Among these, advanced technology cooperation is given priority.

The United States and South Korea affirmed that they will build a strong and resilient supply chain and deepen cooperation in space and cyber domains, ensuring a trustworthy and value-oriented digital and technological ecosystem. The two sides committed to increasing mutual investments, including semiconductors and chips, as well as research and development cooperation in the fields of Artificial Intelligence (AI), next-generation communications networks (6G), quantum technology, biotechnology, and many others.

Hong Kong financial analyst Katherine Jiang Tianming said in an exclusive interview with The Epoch Times that the United States has been leading the decoupling of global supply chains from China. Looking back on the measures that the United States has taken in recent years, there are three parts. The resilient U.S.-South Korean supply chain is the third part of the U.S.-led global decoupling from China.

As the global supply chains decouple, the economy of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) will be in an increasingly difficult position.

Part 1: Establishing a Decoupling Mechanism in the Regulatory and Legal Sectors

On May 15, 2019, former President Donald Trump signed an emergency executive order to secure information and communications technology and services supply chains, barring U.S. companies from using telecommunications equipment that poses a national security threat. This laid the basis for excluding Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. (Huawei) from the U.S. telecommunications supply chain. On May 16, 2019, the U.S. Department of Commerce placed Huawei on the Entity List and issued a prohibition rule in May 2020 that any company must require licenses from the U.S. government for sales to Huawei of semiconductor products containing U.S. technology. This greatly inhibited Huaweis ability to purchase key components such as chips in the United States.

On May 11, 2021, Biden extended Trumps restriction on the CCP-backed Huawei. This was a further economic countermeasure by the U.S. government against the CCP after Bidens 100-day supply chain review on chips, pharmaceuticals, rare earths, and other industries issued on Feb. 24, 2021, and the Strategic Competition Act of 2021 (pdf) passed by the U.S. Senate on April 21, 2021. On May 12, 2021, the Senate passed the Endless Frontier Act to strengthen U.S. investment in technology in another step to counter the CCP.

Jiang believes that the signing of these executive orders and the passing of these Acts have constituted a regulatory and legal mechanism for decoupling from China.

Part 2: Restructuring Supply Chains With the Strategically Important NationTaiwan

On May 6, the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) held a book launch event for Roadmap to Resilient Supply Chains. The preface of this book is inscribed with the names of not only TAITRA but also the American Institute in Taiwan.

This clearly signals the world that the United States and Taiwan are jointly restructuring supply chains, said Jiang.

Roadmap to Resilient Supply Chains clearly outlines the changes in the supply chains: the former supply chain model was that Taiwan first took orders, then outsourced intermediate goods such as components to China for assembly and exported the finished products to developed countries. However, the model will change. In general industries, such as clothing and hats, the CCP economy will still play an assembly role in the entire industrial chain, but Southeast Asian countries will step in and share a piece of the pie.

Screenshot from a presentation Roadmap to Resilient Supply Chains, by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council. (TAITRA/Screenshot via The Epoch Times)

As to the strategically important industries, the CCP will be excluded from the entire industrial chain and Taiwan will cooperate with like-minded nations in production and technology. These key industries include semiconductors, personal protective equipment (PPE), electric vehicles, etc.

Screenshot from a presentation Roadmap to Resilient Supply Chains, by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council. (TAITRA/Screenshot via The Epoch Times)

The United States recently increased cooperation with Taiwanese manufacturers. On May 20, U.S. time, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo once again held a semiconductor virtual summit, where one of the focal issues was the shortage of semiconductor automotive chips. The leader of Taiwans foundry production, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), was also invited to the summit and announced that, in order to support the global automotive industry, it has increased microcontroller unit (MCU) production by 60 percent over last years levels. The company has taken unprecedented action and will continue to cooperate with the automotive supply chain to mitigate the ongoing chip shortage crisis.

TSMC announced last year that it would invest more than $10 billion to build a foundry plant in Arizona. Taiwanese media Central News Agency (CNA) and Liberty Times Finance once reported that Europe and Japan had extended an olive branch to TSMC, inviting TSMC to build plants there.

Jiang stated that TSMC is like a miniature of Taiwan. Taiwans high-tech superiority and the global chip shortage have accentuated the global popularity of TSMC and the strategic importance of Taiwan in global supply chains. The United States has cooperated with Taiwan to restructure the supply chain, while they have also made it clear that removing the CCP from strategically important industries is the second part of decoupling the global industrial chain from the CCP.

Notably, the future supply chain model outlined in the Roadmap to Resilient Supply Chains does not include South Korea. Jiang believes that it might be because South Korea has a deeper economic relationship with the CCP.

Part 3: Strengthening Cooperation With South Korea

South Korea plays a pivotal role in global advanced technology. According to TrendForce, the South Korean company, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (Samsung) is the second-largest manufacturer in the global foundry market after TSMC, and is well ahead of its global counterparts in the dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) and NAND flash memory markets. In the first quarter of 2021, Samsung held 42 percent of the DRAM market share, and SK Hynix Inc. (SK Hynix), another South Korean company, occupied 29 percent. Micron Technology, Inc. (Micron), an American company held 23 percent.

Samsung has heavily invested in the CCPs economy. According to Samsungs 2020 annual report (pdf), as of Dec. 31, 2020, it has established 33 subsidiaries, including a semiconductor manufacturing plant in Xian, Shaanxi Province. In 2020, Samsungs sales revenue in China is second only to that of the United States and Europe, and has exceeded that of South Korea and the African and Asian regions, excluding China.

On May 21, the presidents of the United States and South Korea met at the White House and issued a joint statement, stating that the two sides will build a resilient supply chain in advanced technology pursuant to a shared value of protecting open markets, democracy, human rights, and the protection of intellectual property rights. Jiang said that the CCP is incompatible with the United States and South Korea in regards to the open market, democracy, human rights, and intellectual property protection.

The United States is forging ahead with decoupling its supply chain from the CCP. South Korea is now strengthening cooperation with the United States, and given that the latter has established decoupling mechanisms in its regulatory and legal sectors, it is likely that South Korea will also gradually decouple from the CCP.

Jiang pointed out that the decoupling of U.S. supply chains from the CCP will gradually cause an economic predicament for the CCP because there are a number of middle-end and low-end industries that are technically deficient.

Just like Huawei, its smartphone business has experienced a severe decline after two consecutive years of U.S. sanctions. Huawei, to some extent, mirrors the economic state of the CCP.
George Gascon, then San Francisco district attorney who took office as Los Angeles County district attorney on Dec. 7, 2020, speaks during a news conference in San Francisco on Dec. 9, 2014. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Wife, Mother of Murder Victims Urge Support for Recall of District Attorney

LOS ANGELESThe widow of a sheriffs sergeant who was shot to death while responding to a call of a burglar and the mother of a murder victim who was dumped off a cliff in Azusa Canyon are calling on the public to support a recall effort for Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon.

George Gascon, your days are numbered, Tania Owen, the widow of Sgt. Steve Owen, said during a news conference on May 26 outside the Hall of Justice in downtown Los Angeles. We will have a new election next year and someone else who is for the victims will be the head of the District Attorneys Office.

Owen, a retired Los Angeles County sheriffs detective who is a co-chair of the recall campaign, called it a grassroots effort by victims and law enforcement.

It is up to us to come out here and fight aggressively against George Gascon, Owen said, noting that the recall effort needs to have signatures from more than 500,000 registered voters in Los Angeles County to qualify for the ballot.

The signature-gathering kickoff came just over a week after her husbands killer, Trenton Trevon Lovell, was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole following his guilty plea to murder and other charges after the district attorneys office opted not to seek the death penalty against him.

Gascon has drawn criticism from crime victims and some prosecutors over a series of directives issued the day he was sworn into office last December, that include not seeking the death penalty, not seeking sentence enhancements in most cases, and keeping cases involving juveniles out of adult court.

In a statement issued on Gascons behalf, Mark Gonzalez, chair of the Los Angeles County Democratic Party, called the recall bid just another Trumpian effort backed by right-wing mega-donors and those who intend to undermine the will of the voters and said it will not stand.

Desiree Andrade, the campaigns organizer and spokesperson, said she was disgusted that George Gascon and his spokespeople dismiss this recall effort as partisan or political and called it a fight for whats right and whats wrong.

They are once again ignoring and belittling us victims, said Andrade, who said her son, Julian, was brutally tortured and murdered three years ago. Crime does not see Democrats. Crime does not see Republicans. Crime does not see Independents. A crime is a crime.

She called it an effort to seek justice for her son, other crime victims, and future victims and to keep Los Angeles County safe from violent crimes.

Andrade said her sons five alleged killers had been facing either life in prison or the death penalty before Gascon was elected.

When I learned about what was going to happen, I felt let down by the justice system, and mebeing a motherI knew I needed to fight, she said. I was my sons voice. This is not justice.  The sad truth is that he [Gascon] has re-victimized me and my family. He has total, utter disregard for us victims.

Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanuevawho has been at odds with Gasconwas among the first to sign the recall petition.

Former Los Angeles County District Attorney Steve Cooley, former Los Angeles County Supervisor Mike Antonovich, and former Los Angeles City Councilman Dennis Zine are also among those supporting the recall.

The city councils of least 15 of Los Angeles Countys 88 cities have passed votes of no confidence against Gascon, including Beverly Hills, Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, Diamond Bar, Santa Clarita, and Lancaster.

Gascon has said that he has a mandate from the public.

In a March 17 Zoom call coinciding with his first 100 days in office, Gascon said his changes were based on data and science that will enhance the safety for our community while reducing racial disparities and the misuse of incarceration, and he vowed that the efforts are just beginning.

In the call, Gascon also said the death penalty does not make us safer. It is morally wrong and fiscally irresponsible, adding that the death penalty requires the families of murder victims to wait through decades of appeals and forces them to relive the trauma for a sentence that will never be imposed in a state in which Gov. Gavin Newsom has declared a moratorium on executions.

Gascon has also said research suggests excessive sentences dont enhance safety but do exacerbate recidivism, leading to more victims of crime.

In an interview with NBC News anchor Lester Holt, Gascon said, As a prosecutor, youre not the lawyer for one person. You are the peoples lawyer. And not only do I have to be concerned with todays victims and this victim in front of me, but I have to be concerned with victims of the future. I have to be concerned with the victimization of a community. I have to be concerned with how do we use public resources, because every time that we are sending people to prisons, were taking resources away.

He noted that he had formed a victims advisory board, and that as the national polls and even an LA County recent poll tell us, they have sort of made the transition from the eye for an eye to one of, I want the system to deal with my trauma. I want the offender to be held accountable, but I want some rehabilitation, because I want to avoid recidivism.

Andrade and Owen countered that they believe in rehabilitation, with Andrade saying that she does not believe reform means releasing or reducing sentences for violent criminals.

I have not encountered one victim or victims family that does not want the ultimate punishment for the one that has destroyed their life, the campaigns organizer said, adding that Gascon has put criminals before victims.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, speaks to members of Congress during a hearing in Washington on March 18, 2021. (Susan Walsh/Pool/Getty Images)

Will the Madness of 2020 Last?

Commentary

The COVID-19 pandemic is ending with mass vaccinations. So is the national quarantine. The rioting, looting, and arson that began in the summer of 2020 is finally sputtering out.

The acrimony over the 2020 election is fading. Trump Derangement Syndrome became abstract when Donald Trump left office and was ostracized from social media.

In other words, the American people are slowly regaining their senses after the epidemic of mass hysteria that gripped the nation last year.

But many Americans wonder whether what Antifa, Black Lives Matter, and the hard left wrought last year will last when the nation is no longer gripped by 2020 madness.

Teachers and academics are notorious for furious opposition to administrative bloat. For the last 50 years, administrations have proliferated while the ratio of non-teachers to teachers has skyrocketedmuch to the chagrin of teachers unions.

But in the last year, colleges have gone mad in hiring thousands of diversity, equity, and inclusion administrators. Their job descriptions may be vague, but they certainly wont contribute to classroom education. Instead, theyll monitor the speech and actions of those who do.

How long will mostly left-wing teachers unions continue to support such vast diversions of money to armies of new non-teaching administrators?

Before 2020, the left demanded proportional representation in hiring and admissions. And if minority groups and women werent represented in the workplace according to their percentages of the American population, then prejudice was automatically assumed, and reparatory measures were then taken to hire by race and gender.

Affirmative action was the euphemism for such quotas. It was more or less institutionalized because proportional representation wasnt entirely illogical in a multiracial society, and there was still the common goal to follow Martin Luther King Jr.s notion of integration and assimilation to make race incidental, not essential, to who Americans are.

Not now. The foundations of the new woke race agenda are mostly anti-white. African American Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot recently decided not to grant interviews to white reporters. The city of Oaklands entitlement payouts, like those of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, are designed not to be distributed to white people.

A number of black intellectuals now openly envision American life segregated from whites. The Nations Elie Mystal envisions his life as whiteness-free. Damon Young, senior editor of The Root and occasional New York Times contributor, claims, Whiteness is a public health crisis. It shortens life expectancies. And Barnard College English instructor Ben Philippe recently wrote a novel envisioning the mass gassing and blowing up of white people.

Such hatred has never been condemned by Black Lives Matter or other civil rights groups. When the country returns to life after COVID-19, will such venom still be tolerated?

For that matter, will the media be able to get away with not covering attacks on Jews in major cities by mostly pro-Hamas or Arab American youth?

Before 2020, the American people had tired of media farces such as the demonization of the Duke lacrosse team, the lies about the Covington Catholic High School kids, and the Jussie Smollett hoax about an attack by white racists. Will Americans return to their earlier skepticism when it increasingly seems as if the media and the government mostly misled them when denying the possibility that COVID-19 leaked from a Wuhan lab engaged in the engineering of dangerous viruses?

Will people still believe that armed insurrectionists planned a Jan. 6 coup? As the hysteria fades, we are learning there were no arms anywhere. No one has been charged with treason, conspiracy, or insurrection. There are no conspiracy kingpins in custody.

By the end of the year, will the media-hungry Dr. Anthony Fauci still be a national icon, as the country finally adds up his contradictory communiques that were constantly changing and often flat-out wrong?

From March 2020 to spring of 2021, the country went through a mass hysteria. Despite its ideological pretensions, the collective insanity was not unlike the Tulip mania in early 17th-century Holland or the June bug epidemic paranoia of 1962.

But as Americans sober up, will they institutionalize or reject the frenzy remaining from the destructive stampede that took the country over the cliff during the most unhinged year in American history?

Victor Davis Hanson is a conservative commentator, classicist, and military historian. He is a professor of classics emeritus at California State University, a senior fellow in classics and military history at Stanford University, a fellow of Hillsdale College, and a distinguished fellow of the Center for American Greatness. Hanson has written 16 books, including The Western Way of War, Fields Without Dreams, and The Case for Trump.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Election workers, right, verify ballots as recount observers, left, watch during a Milwaukee hand recount of presidential votes at the Wisconsin Center in Milwaukee, Wis., on Nov. 20, 2020. (Nam Huh/AP Photo)

Wisconsin Nov. 3 Election Will Be Investigated by Retired Officers: Assembly Speaker

Wisconsin state Assembly Speaker Robin Vos says hes hiring retired police officers to probe aspects of the 2020 presidential election, joining efforts in Republican-led states to look into the contest.

Vos, a Republican, told local news outlets that he will hire three retired officers to work with an Assembly committee that has investigatory powers to review the election. Vos said there were thousands of complaints made after the Nov. 3 contest in Wisconsinwhich was narrowly won by President Joe Bidenthat need to be investigated.

We need to have a fact basis to continue to show the public in Wisconsin that, number one, we continue to take these irregularities seriously, and that at the end of the day, the laws that we proposed are based on facts in addition to anecdotes, Vos told the Wisconsin State Journal, adding that he believes Biden won the election but pointed to irregularities in how it was carried out.

In the interview, Vos singled out how the Center for Tech and Civic Life, which is mostly funded by Facebooks Mark Zuckerberg, got involved in several cities. Wisconsins five largest cities received some $6.3 million from the group, which also provided funding to about 200 municipalities across the state, the Journal Sentinel reported.

The retired officers and committee will spend three months reviewing all the tips that were received and will focus more time on the most credible ones, Vos told the newspaper.

Is there a whole lot of smoke or is there actual fire? We just dont know yet, he said. A sizable chunk of people believe the election was illegitimate. And democracy cannot flourish if both sides dont believe in the end both sides had a fair shot.

The move comes as auditors who were approved by the Arizona GOP-led Senate are reviewing more than 2 million ballots in Maricopa County, and amid other similar efforts across the United States. Last week, a judge in Georgia ruled to unseal absentee ballots that were cast in Fulton County during the 2020 election for a review.

Vos noted the controversy surrounding the Maricopa audit and said he wanted to prevent a similar situation from unfolding in Wisconsin. Thats why, he said, he hired former law enforcement officials.

My hope is that they come back and they build the case to show Gov. [Tony] Evers and the Democrats who are in the Casablanca modeNothing to see here, everythings fine, they just want to suppress the vote. No. These are professional investigators, Vos told the Sentinel.

Since the election is over, Vos said theres no way to overturn the results in favor of former President Donald Trump.

The elections already over, he said. My job is to be frustrated with the result, which I am, especially with whats going on in Washington, D.C.  My job is to say where are the laws being followed, where are they not? If theyre not being followed, how can I fix it?

Ann Jacobs, a Democrat who heads the Wisconsin Elections Commission, told the paper shes concerned about Voss investigation.

I think its unfortunate that the Legislature is using its resources to investigate what has already been thoroughly investigated, and it is my hope that instead they could work toward expanding opportunities and ease of voting for Wisconsin voters, she said.

The Elections Commission didnt immediately respond to a request by The Epoch Times for comment.
A street performer plays the bagpipes next to a statue of Scottish philosopher David Hume on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, Scotland on June 25, 2016. (Oli Scarff/AFP via Getty Images)

Woke Culture at Edinburgh University Causes Push-back from Faculty

In recent years, universities in the United Kingdom have been targets of infiltration of far left ideology. Attacks on freedom of speech and self-censorship have become more and more acute. The University of Edinburgh in Scotland is one example.

A group of scholars from the University of Edinburgh in Scotland wrote an open letter in September 2020, criticizing the principal and vice-chancellor, Peter William Mathieson, for pandering to the ultra-left and allowing Marxist BLM students to attack faculty members. They expressed strong objection to Mathiesons handling of the matter and asked for his resignation.

Mathieson, a British nephrologist, previously served four years as principal and vice-chancellor of the University of Hong Kong (HKU), from April 2014 to January 2018.

Six months after he became the new president at HKU, the student democracy protest movement Occupy Central with Love and Peace broke out in Hong Kong. In the middle of an escalating standoff between the Hong Kong government and student activists demanding democratic reforms, Mathieson appeared at the site to support the student protesters and advise them to stay calm and put safety first, which earned him respect and acclaim.

On Feb. 2, 2017, Mathieson suddenly announced that he would resign from HKU on Jan. 18, 2018 although his contract with HKU was originally scheduled to end in 2019. In an interview with the South China Morning Post, Mathieson revealed that his tenure at HKU had been filled with pressure as both local pro-establishment officials and Beijing officials at Hong Kongs Liaison Office regularly interfered with his work.

I wish higher education was not so politicised, he said. I think it would be simpler for people like me if politics wasnt such a complicating factor.

Yet politics interfered with Mathieson again in his new post at Edinburgh University, this time for his support of the ultra-leftist BLM students whose values are directly opposite of the Hong Kong student demonstrators.

Hungarian-born professor Gabor Gabriel Ronay penned his own letter, published by The Times on May 14, angrily criticizing Mathieson for his acquiescence to a small unrepresentative student group who have been allowed to intimidate staff, expunge historic names and silence free speech, which leads to the climate of illiberal thought and intimidation at Edinburgh University.

Condemning the BLM movement as woke culture, Ronay said, A flurry of snowflakes cannot be allowed to turn into a permanent winter.

Ronay, a professor of medieval history, fled Hungary with his family in 1956 with the Russian Red Armys military intelligence agency hot on his tail, following the failure of the Hungarian Revolution, the fight for national freedom, free elections, and multi-party democracy. He has remained a strong advocate of freedom and anti-communism.

Renaming of David Hume Tower

Last summer, BlackED, a BLM group at Edinburgh University, demanded that school authorities rename the David Hume Tower, as the Scottish Enlightenment figure of the 18th century had made discriminatory remarks against black people.

A professor who had served for more than 34 years opposed the idea and criticized the organization for setting up a special zone and denying entry to white people when holding activities on campus, saying it was outright racial discrimination.

In the end, the University did rename the David Hume Tower, and started an internal investigation of the professors conduct.
Woman Arrested After Driving Through Vaccine Site Allegedly Yelling No Vaccine

A woman was arrested after she allegedly drove through a COVID-19 vaccination site in eastern Tennessee yelling no vaccine, according to authorities and witnesses.

Police said the suspect, Virginia Christine Lewis Brown, on Monday, allegedly drove her vehicle at a high rate of speed through a vaccination tent that was set up in Maryville, Tennessee.

The Blount County Sheriffs Office said that Brown, 36, was arrested and charged with seven counts of felony reckless endangerment, according to a statement posted Thursday.

Two Blount County Sheriffs deputies who were working at the site witnessed Ms. Brown speed through the coned section and through the enclosed vaccine tent in a Chrysler Pacifica, the statement said. The deputies reported that Ms. Brown did not stop at the check-in area at the entrance of the tent but continued through the tent at a high rate of speed, then exited the tent and out of the parking lot.

Witnesses told deputies that the woman was allegedly yelling no vaccines when she drove by them, narrowly missing several, reported WSMV.

The woman was arrested after a deputy followed her after she drove through the vaccine site.

Deputies said that Brown, as she sat in the back of a squad car, made several statements to officials about how she wanted to protest the COVID-19 vaccine, WSMV reported. Brown also claimed she was only driving 5 mph when she went through the tent.

I had several victims tell me she almost hit them as she fled through the tent at high speeds, a deputy wrote in an incident report. I was advised that they were within inches and feet of the vehicle as it came through the tent. Several victims stated that they thought the driver was going to kill them.

The deputy also added that Brown stated she was driving through the course and once she got to the tent she told the personnel working she was not there for the vaccine.

Reports said that Brown was released on $21,000 bond and had a court date set for June 7. Its unclear if she has a lawyer.

Other details about the incident were not provided.
This image made from May 25, 2020, video provided by Christian Cooper shows Amy Cooper with her dog talking to Christian Cooper at Central Park in New York. (Christian Cooper via AP)

Woman Sues Over Termination After Calling Police on Man in NYCs Central Park

A woman who was fired last year after she called 911 on a man who she said threatened her and her dog has sued her former employer, arguing the firm did not carry out an investigation despite suggesting it did so in a strongly worded statement on the termination.

Franklin Templeton said in a statement on May 26, 2020, that it had decided, following an internal review, to terminate the woman, Amy Cooper, effective immediately.

We do not tolerate racism of any kind at Franklin Templeton, the firm said.

Cooper had been walking her dog at New York Citys Central Park when she was asked by a man named Christian Cooper to put the animal on a leash to comply with rules in the area.

Amy Cooper maintained that Christian Cooper threatened her and called the police. Christian Cooper accused Amy Cooper of racism because he is black and she is white. Christian Cooper said he started to call the dog over and offered the animal a treat when Amy Cooper refused to listen to him. Amy Cooper was filmed by him and his sister asking Christian Cooper to stop recording her before vowing to call 911 and tell them she would convey to them that theres an African American man threatening my life.

Both Christian Cooper and his sister referred to Amy Cooper as a Karen, which is widely used as a derogatory term against white women.

In the new complaint, filed in federal court, Amy Coopers lawyers said Franklin Templetons alleged investigation and results provided legitimacy to the Karen story and appeared to provide justification for those who sought the destruction of the Plaintiffs life.

But, the attorneys charged, the firm actually never performed a probe into the confrontation.

Amy Coopers actions were not racially motivated but fueled by fear because she was alone in the park and singled out by Christian Cooper, described as an overzealous birdwatcher, which even a perfunctory investigation would have shown, the complaint said.

In addition to the statement, Franklin Templeton CEO Jenny Johnson explained to Bloomberg that the facts were undisputed in this case, and we were able to make a quick decision. Johnson also spoke to at least one other outlet about the matter.

Franklin Templeton made no attempt to interview Christian Cooper and, in fact, did not interview anybody about what happened, nor did it attempt to obtain Amy Coopers full 911 calls from the New York City Police Department, according to the complaint. The firm also neglected to reach out to people familiar with Christian Coopers history of confronting dogwalkers in Central Park.

A view of Central Park in a file photo. (Seth Wenig/Reuters)

Included in the document was a statement from Jerome Lockett, who said he had to separate Christian Cooper from his dog in a separate incident.

When I saw that video, I thought, I cannot imagine if he approached her the same way how she may have genuinely been afraid for her life, Lockett, a black man, said.

The complaint alleged race discrimination and gender discrimination, as well as defamation and intentional infliction of emotional distress and negligence.

Franklin Templeton told The Epoch Times via email regarding the complaint: We believe the circumstances of the situation speak for themselves and that the company responded appropriately. We will defend against these baseless claims.

Amy Cooper was charged with falsely reporting an incident but the charge was dropped in February after she attended critical therapy classes. She released a statement one day after her run-in with Christian Cooper that contained an apology to the man.

I reacted emotionally and made false assumptions about his intentions when, in fact, I was the one who was acting inappropriately by not having my dog on a leash. When Chris began offering treats to my dog and confronted me in an area where there was no one else nearby and said, Youre not going to like what Im going to do next, I assumed we were being threatened when all he had intended to do was record our encounter on his phone, she said.

He had every right to request that I leash my dog in an area where it was required. I am well aware of the pain that misassumptions and insensitive statements about race cause and would never have imagined that I would be involved in the type of incident that occurred with Chris.
WWII Vet Who Turned 97 on Verge of Losing His Houseso Biker Club Step In on His Birthday

A World War II veteran who turned 97 years old earlier this month received a welcome gift from a local biker club in Maine.

When the Garry Owen Motorcycle Club learned that the town had foreclosed on Army veteran Joey Comeaus home in Ellsworth, they knew they had to step in.

The biker club quickly mobilized to raise funds for Comeau, who turned 97 on May 13.

They set up a barbecue and held signs on Bangor Road, encouraging motorists to contribute toward paying some of the veterans taxes and saving his home.

Well stop traffic, well put boots out there, but we got to get this guys taxes paid so he could do what he wants to do in the last part of his life, said Warren Ard, president of Garry Owen, to ABC.

Within just one hour, theyd raised over $600.

Then, Comeau was thrilled when the bikers all came up on his deck to sing him Happy Birthday and hand him the donations. Tears ran down his face, moved that someone would do such a thing for him.

Over $4,400 more has since been raised through a crowdfunding page.

A relative and advocate of Comeaus says he owes as much as $13,100 to the town, including all fees.

A state homeless veteran coordinator, Jarad Greeley, those who are age 65 and older are legally protected from tax liens and foreclosures.

Greeley adds that Comeau could also apply to the veteran emergency financial assistance fund for support.

According to Comeaus friends, the veteran served in the Second World War from 1943 to 1945 and fought on the beaches of Normandy, ABC reported.

Nearly a decade ago, the Garry Owen Motorcycle Club pledged to support every military veteran in Maine.

Some members of the Garry Owen club have family members who served their country in the military.

Our whole club is about veterans, you know veterans supporting veterans, said Fleming. My father was a Vietnam veteran so that made me want to begin this journey with these guys because they take care of veterans and my old man always taught me you know you see a vet out there you shake his hand and say thank you.

Ard added, This country is the greatest nation in the world.

As for the fate of Comeaus home, uncertainty still lingers.

Yet, the long-lived veteran can take heart in knowingjudging from the support shown on his 97th birthdayhis local community, plus a handful of bikers, have got his back.

Share your stories with us at emg.inspired@epochtimes.com, and continue to get your daily dose of inspiration by signing up for the Epoch Inspired newsletter at TheEpochTimes.com/newsletter
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 09:18:40|Editor: huaxia

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ACCRA, May 26 (Xinhua) -- The World Bank and the United Nations (UN) on Wednesday pledged additional aid to push forward Ghana's COVID-19 vaccine rollout and economic recovery.

The World Bank prepares to finance more than 200 million U.S. dollars for existing pandemic relief programs in Ghana, said Agata Pawlowska, the bank's operations manager for the West African country.

The bank has so far supported Ghana with a total of 235.8 million dollars in COVID-19 epidemic prevention and control, Pawlowska told Xinhua at a UN meeting on humanitarian.

The bank has just approved a 100 million-dollar project for social protection, educational support, and skills development, through the ongoing programs, she said. "It is something we are working on with the (Ghanaian) government for the future."

Charles Abani, UN resident coordinator for Ghana, said that despite a slowdown of infection rate in Ghana, the UN remains committed to supporting Ghana via COVAX to get the vaccines necessary for herd immunity. Enditem
Yangtze Experiencing Serious Flooding as Water Exceeds Warning Levels at 5 Major Monitoring Stations

Floodwaters exceeded warning levels on May 22 across five major monitoring stations of the Yangtze River that runs from Chinas west to east due to heavy rainfall in the past few days, according to state media Xinhua News Agency.

The monitoring stations are mainly located in the middle and lower Xiang River section near Dongting Lake, Hunan Province, and in the Xin River section near Poyang Lake, Jiangxi Province.

According to hydrological monitoring data released by the Changjiang Water Commission of Chinas Ministry of Water Resources, as of 2 p.m. on May 22, the water levels at the monitoring stations of Qilishan (Hunan Province), Hankou (Hubei Province), Hukou (Jiangxi Province), and Datong (Anhui Province) were 30.42 meters, 23.69 meters, 16.88 meters, and 11.50 meters respectively, among which Qilishan station recorded its second highest levels of the past 30 years.

Official forecasts are warning that the Wu Riveran important tributary of the Upper Yangtze in Guizhou Provincealong with the middle and lower reaches of Yangtze are set to receive more heavy rainfall until May 28, with water levels predicted to rise between 1 to 1.8 meters.

A resident sits by the flooded Jiangtan park along the Yangtze river in Wuhan, China, on July 10, 2020. (Getty Images)

With the arrival of the flood season, submerged areas of Poyang Lake have exceeded 3,000 square kilometers for the first time this year, reaching 3,450 square kilometers on May 22 a month earlier than last year, which also broke records.

Last years flood season saw the Yangtze River basin experience its third-largest flood since the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) came into power in 1949. Poyang lake exceeded 3,000 square kilometers for the first time on June 26, 2020. Water levels in the middle and lower reaches of Yangtzes main course also exceeded warning levels, leading to the largest flows into the Three Gorges Reservoir since its completion in 2006.

Guanyinge temple, a 700-year old temple built on a rock, is inundated in the swollen Yangtze River in Ezhou, China on July 19, 2020. (STR/AFP via Getty Images)

This year is forecast to bring another challenging flood season for the Yangtze River basin, with a high possibility of regional flooding, but also a rapid changes from flood to drought conditions due to the uneven spatial and temporal distribution of rainfall throughout the vast area of the Yangtze River basin.

On May 18, Wang Zhonglin, General Commander of the Yangtze River Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters and acting governor of Hubei Province, told a flood and drought control work conference that the year 2021 marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of the CCP and that Yangtze River flood and drought control work is of significant importance.

The Yangtze River is the largest river in both China and Asia, and the third-largest in the world. Its total length is 6,363 kilometers, flowing through 11 provinces, areas, and municipalities, including Qinghai, Sichuan, Tibet, Yunnan, Chongqing City, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangxi, Anhui, Jiangsu, and Shanghai City before it finally enters the East China Sea.
Last years outdoor music festival season was a wash-out due to COVID, but the 2021 season is alive and well  and in many instances, alive means live and in-person gatherings for both audiences and performers.

Some festivals are morphing into hybrid and virtual happenings, but others are going full-steam-ahead, with big crowds expected and even on-site camping allowed.

One of the more ambitious of these is the Black Bear Americana Music Fest taking place at the Goshen Fairgrounds later this year, from Oct. 8-10. The event promises over 35 bands on four stages with RV and tent camping allowed, plus food and craft vendors and workshops.

Black Bear is in its third year, not counting 2020s cancellation, and many of the acts planned for last year are coming back, according to Ian Campbell, one of the festival organizers.

We took a lot of the performers we were going to have in 2020 and moved them to 2021, but weve also added lots of new acts, Campbell said. Headliners include Eddie from Ohio, Ellis Paul, and the Slambovian Circus of Dreams. My hope is that by October we can be mostly open, and people don't have to panic. We are a conscientious festival, and we will absolutely stay within the guidelines of what has to happen.

Goshen Fairgrounds plays host to several other events this year, too, including the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival  its being called A Day of Falcon Ridge  on July 31 and the Podunk Bluegrass Festival Aug. 12-15. Performers include Tom Rush, Susan Werner, Vance Gilbert, and The Slambovian Circus of Dreams.

The Fairgrounds is run by the Goshen Agricultural Society, which is overseen by a 12-member board. Board president Scott Fraher welcomes the business. Its good news for us, because last year we were forced to close the doors for every event, said Fraher. It was just a big financial drain on our account, because we had no income coming in for rentals.

The Societys big event, the Goshen Fair, is on track to take place Labor Day Weekend. The Goshen Fair is our gig, and were hoping to open the doors up to 100 percent this year, Fraher said. Were taking little baby steps, and were going to ease into it this year. We will get back on our feet one way or another, and were hoping to come back bigger and stronger.

This years Falcon Ridge Folk Festival marks its 33rd annual celebration  last years was a totally virtual event  with a one-day hybrid concert that features seven or eight performers on two stages, with no dance component and no camping, except for staff and volunteers.

We dont know how many tickets we can sell yet, but itll be pod seating, and weve come up with three different size pods, said Anne Saunders, the festivals artistic and publicity director. We will be live-streaming that day and taping it for later, in the event that something happens, and we cant do it with a live, in-person audience. Acts to be announced.

The Litchfield Jazz Festival, presented by Litchfield Performing Arts, goes virtual this year and live-streams its event for free from the Telefunken Soundstage in South Windsor from noon to 6 p.m. on July 31. The line-up includes the veteran bassist Rufus Reid, who performed at the very first Litchfield Jazz Festival in 1996, with his Trio, the Matt Wilson Quartet, the Albert Rivera/Andrew Hadro Quartet, and pianist Emmet Cohen.

The Mystic Shipyard River Jam takes place at the Mystic Shipyard from June 25-26 and benefits the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center and Sails Up 4 Cancer. The line-up includes Steve Rodgers, Mystic Dead, Wooly Mammoth, and Jabbawaukee. Because its outside, and because its in a large enough space at Mystic Shipyard, we can very safely socially distance, said Courtney Moore, the festivals co-founder and co-organizer. And, if you wish, you can arrive by boat. If people want to come by boat, they just have to call the shipyard to reserve their slip, she said. And then they can listen from their boats, or they can get tickets and come under the tent.

The CT Folk Fest & Green Expo is relocating and repurposing this year with four outdoor concerts at Edgewood Park in New Haven. We will miss our huge one-day event at Edgerton Park, and we hope to return next year, said Nicole Heriot-Mikula, CT Folk Event Director. But this will allow us to re-emerge with smaller, socially distanced audiences. Ticketed concert dates: June 24, July 22, Aug. 26 and Sept. 5. Acts to be announced.

One other big event thats happening just the over state line is the 23rd Rhythm & Roots Festival, taking place Sept. 3-5 at Ninigret Park in Charlestown, Rhode Island. Headliners there include John Hiatt, Richard Thompson, and Donna The Buffalo. Were dealing closely with the Department of Business Regulations in Rhode Island, and theyre spearheading the handling of all types of events in the state, said festival producer Chuck Wentworth. It has loosened up a bit, and Im anticipating by the end of the summer, itll be loosening up quite a bit more.

For more information, visit the following websites:

Black Bear Americana Music Fest: www.blackbearmusicfest.com

Camp Creek: www.campcreek.rocks

CT Folk Fest & Green Expo: www.ctfolk.org

CT Localpalooza VII: www.facebook.com/CTLocalpalooza

Falcon Ridge Folk Festival: www.facebook.com/FalconRidgeFest

Goshen Fair: www.goshenfair.org

Greater Hartford Festival of Jazz: www.hartfordjazz.org

Litchfield Jazz Festival: https://litchfieldjazzfest.com

Mystic River Jam: https://mysticriverjam.com

Norwalk Seaport Association Oyster Festival: www.seaport.org

Podunk Bluegrass Festival: https://podunkbluegrass.com

Rhythm & Roots Festival: https://rhythmandroots.com
NEW YORK (AP)  It's nearly time for the arrival of Baby Girl Sussex, and that likely means some new gear for Harry and Meghan.

Peeks into their lives in Montecito, California, reveal some baby brands they've liked for big brother Archie, including Boden and J. Crew, and it's clear their eco-friendly approach to human existence hasn't changed as they await the birth of their daughter this summer.

So if you're looking for a baby gift with a dash of luxury, sustainability and California vibes for friends or family members, consider one of these:

SHOP MONTECITO & BEYOND

Look no further than the hamlet where the stepped-down royals dwell. One cute Montecito shop, Asher Market, designs right there in nearby Santa Barbara but sources its materials in Peru.

It has a collection of black-and-white baby clothes and accessories emblazoned with math equations, from onesies ($23) and rompers ($36) to jackets ($48) and dresses ($39). Another collection features llamas, and an array of handmade stuffed animals made of alpaca wool, including a 13-inch shaggy alpaca itself for $65. Or order a pair of floral moccasins created by artisans in Peru ($45). Available at Ashermarket.com.

Boden carries a sun-safe surf suit adorned with jungle animals. $47 at Bodenusa.com. A company called Elfin Los Angeles sells a snuggly soft onesie from Mama Coco in a soft green eucalyptus design that eliminates over-the-head baby dressing and frustrating Velcro fasteners through a crisscross wrap design. It's reversible to a solid sage. $46 at Elfinlosangeles.com and Buymamacoco.com.

Archie's look is way chill. He and his duchess mom were recently spotted out in Los Angeles with the 2-year-old sibling-in-waiting wearing a gray cotton blend J. Crew sweatshirt that also comes in bright yellow, green and coral. $49.50 at Jcrew.com.

You can always just pick up a pair of baby Uggs, as seen on Archies feet.

FOR SLEEP TIME

A mom-founded company called Gunamuna makes a swaddle-style sleep bag out of soft, 95% bamboo filled with hypoallergenic microfiber that mimics the feel and insulating ability of luxury down. It also has a convenient four-way zipper that makes diaper changes a breeze. In heather gray, a bear design or pink blooms. $50. Available at Gunamuna.com.

This one's more for Archie's age, and baby sister later. It's the Slumber Sloth snuggler and bedtime book, the latter offering an interactive approach to help babies and young children wind down for bed through breathing and counting activities. The sloth is certainly cozy. $37.40 for sloth and book. Go to Slumberkins.com.

From Olive & Cocoa, a handcrafted crate holds a fuzzy friend, Lulu the Lamb, and an ivory chamois blanket. Lulu measures 16 inches tall and the blanket is 30-by-36 inches. $94 at Oliveandcocoa.com.

For newborns, ergoPouch makes premium, natural fiber sleepwear and zip-up swaddle bags in a range of colors and designs. Holes for optional arms out. The Cocoon Swaddle Bags range from $29.99 to $49.99, depending on the level of thermal insulation. Looking to add extra warmth underneath? Pick up some matching short or long jammies. Up to $24.99. All are made of 95% organic cotton.

If you'd like to offer some help with inevitable baby blowouts, head to Boomboombabyco.com or Amazon for a bodysuit with back fabric of impenetrable organic cotton from neck to bottom. $42 to $46 in black-and-white stripes or pastels.

Have you signed on to a group gift? Suggest the Oeuf Sparrow Crib ($860) with the toddler bed conversion kit ($248). The design is contemporary birch wood, a tree that takes a third to half as long as an oak to reach maturity. It's a clean, minimal vibe for a contemporary look. On Parachutehome.com.

LET'S EAT

Avanchy sells stylin' bamboo baby bowl and fork sets that are plastic free. There's a silicone suction bottom that color matches the spoon in bright green to gray. $19.99. The company offers a suction-bottom, sectioned plate with matching fork for toddlers. At Avanchy.com and Amazon.

Also made from durable, toxin-free silicone with no BPA, BPS, PVC, latex or phthalates, Ezpz sells First Food Sets complete with a bowl on an attached mat, two baby spoons and a tiny cup. All are dishwasher safe and made not to fade or corrode. Lots of colors from neutrals to lime green. $34.99 at Ezpzfun.com.

Looking for a bigger-ticket gift? The Stokke Tripp Trapp high chair is made of sustainably harvested wood finished with non-toxic, water-based stains and varnishes with no volatile organic compounds. They are formaldehyde-free, with no emissions from their glue. There are no fire-retardant chemicals in their cushions, and no PVC, BPA, phthalates or non-renewable, petroleum-based materials in their plastic parts. And parents report they're made to last. Beech and Oak options available.

The Tripp Trapp, with several add-ons sold separately, adjusts from baby seat to toddler booster and, finally, adult-size chair with the turn of an Allen key. It can be used with a tray or pulled right up to the table. $269 base price at Stokke.com and a wide range of retailers.

SOME OTHER IDEAS

From Fiji with love, a company called Loloma was founded by a mother looking to soothe her children's eczema without the chemicals found in pharmaceutical creams. It sells pure organic virgin coconut oil to combat everything from diaper rash on baby's bottom to the fine lines on mom's face. Processed naturally in Fiji, it contains no chemicals or additives, and it comes in a gifty, golden sphere. $32.50 for 100 milliliters. Go to Lolomafiji.com.

Archie and his baby sis are perfect for a double stroller. Bugaboo has a convertible model that expands sideways with a bassinet option. It's the Bugaboo Donkey 3 Duo, and its price tag is not for the faint of heart: $1,759 to start. The frame simply pushes back in sideways for a solo ride. It's 29 inches wide and weighs 33 pounds. It includes two seats, one bassinet, two sun canopies and a side luggage basket that can't be used in duo mode. Would be a nice group gift.

Made in France, the Charlie Crane Levo Baby Rocker in beechwood with an organic, off-white padded seat is luxury fit for modern royalty. The wood is produced in sustainably managed forests in Europe. Good for newborns to about 7 months. The rocker adapts to the childs own rhythms. $249, with an activity bar add-on sold separately. Widely available. Start at Charliecraneparis.com.

For the deliberately minimal mom and dad, there's a deliberately minimal diaper bag. It's actually more like a belly bag with a magical nylon changing pad that folds into a back compartment and attaches with Velcro. The Kibou is made of a vegan leather exterior and a stain-resistant nylon lining with a waterproof pocket that can hold wet wipes easily at reach. The bag, with a key hook, is big enough for the basics needed on a trip to the playground: sunscreen, cards and cash, a snack or two and, of course, a diaper. In six colors. $89 at Kiboubag.com and Maisonette.com.
NORWALK  A city campaign aimed at hiring a new group of firefighters has attracted hundreds of applications since it launched earlier this spring.

At least 1,220 people, including 155 city residents, have applied to be full-time Norwalk firefighters, according to Assistant Fire Chief Edward McCabe

Im happy to say our recruitment efforts have been very successful, McCabe said at a recent Fire Commission meeting. I think we were able to get the applicants that we were looking for.

The flood of applications began pouring in nearly two months ago after Fire Chief Gino Gatto announced a new process for administering entry-level firefighter exams. The testing procedure was overhauled after the previous exam was marred by allegations of cheating.

Last Saturday, the department administered the written portion of the exam  one of the first in a series of tests designed to gauge an applicant's intelligence, dependability and level of physical fitness. Candidates who pass the written exam will move to an interview phase.

Assistant Fire Chief Albe Bassett has said the department is seeking to fill a dozen open positions. The recruits selected by the department will complete about 14 weeks of training at the Connecticut Fire Academy in Windsor Locks before being assigned to one of the citys five fire stations. The starting annual salary for a new firefighter is $65,476.

McCabe said that of the hundreds of people who applied to the department, 63 are already state certified firefighters, which could give them a leg up in the competitive hiring process. He also noted that more than a third of the applicants came from diverse backgrounds.

Raymond Burney, Norwalks director of personnel and labor relations, has said state law prevents the city from prioritizing city residents over applicants who live elsewhere in the hiring process.

We cant pick them just because theyre Norwalk residents, he said at a March 25 news conference. But the more they come out, the more likely it is well have a pool of candidates that includes a substantial number of Norwalk residents.

The firefighter candidate exams are being overseen by the consulting firm Morris & McDaniel at a cost of $67,500, according to Josh Morgan, a city spokesperson.

The firm was selected to administer the exams after the city ended its relationship with the Connecticut Firefighter Testing Consortium, a collection of state municipalities that aimed to streamline the often paperwork-intensive and costly application process.

The decision to leave the consortium was made after a probe determined Chris King, the departments then-assistant fire chief, had likely leaked test questions and answers to his son, according to an investigation report. King, who resigned last year amid an investigation into the allegations, has denied wrongdoing.

We just didnt feel comfortable that the field was level for all applicants and, therefore, based on our concerns about the internal process, we decided to step out of the consortium and give a new exam, Mayor Harry Rilling said in December.

Rilling, a member of the citys Fire Commission, said last week the massive number of applicants will ultimately help prevent staffing shortages at the fire department.

richard.chumney@hearstmediact.com
JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  Mississippi's capital city is honoring the civil rights activism of the late Rev. C.T. Vivian 60 years after he and other Freedom Riders were arrested upon arrival in Jackson as they challenged segregation in interstate buses and bus terminals across the American South.

After several days in a local jail, the young activists were transferred to Mississippi's notorious Parchman prison, where guards beat Vivian and others  one of many times that Vivian faced violence as he worked to dismantle systemic racism and injustice.

Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba proclaimed Wednesday as C.T. Vivian Day. The mayor's wife, Ebony Lumumba, presented the proclamation to one of Vivian's daughters, Denise Morse, at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum.

Rev. Vivian remains a source of inspiration for leaders and advocates for justice at every age, because life teaches us that, among other things, we are never too young, never too old, never inexperienced to be on the front lines of this battle for justice, said Ebony Lumumba, a professor of literature.

Cordy Tindell Vivian began challenging segregation in Illinois in the 1940s, became more involved with civil rights activism when he attended seminary in Nashville, Tennessee, in the 1950s and later became an adviser to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

Vivian was 95 when he died July 17 in Atlanta  the same day that his friend and fellow civil rights activist U.S. Rep. John Lewis died of cancer at age 80.

In May 1961, Vivian was 37 and almost a generation older than Lewis, Diane Nash and other college-age Freedom Riders who set out from Nashville on buses into the Deep South. A violent white mob attacked Lewis and others in Montgomery, Alabama.

Vivian joined the other Freedom Riders days later in boarding another bus from Montgomery to Jackson. Mississippi's segregationist governor, Ross Barnett, had cut a secret deal with U.S. Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy: Buses carrying Freedom Riders would be guaranteed safe passage once they crossed into the state, but the activists would be arrested in Jackson.

Black-and-white jail mugshots of Vivian and other Freedom Riders fill a gallery in the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum that opened in late 2017.

Morse lives in Fayetteville, Georgia, and visited Jackson for the first time this week. In the civil rights museum Wednesday, she looked proudly at her father's mugshot and another photo that showed him, Nash, Bernard Lafayette and other activists in Nashville.

Morse said her father never bragged about his activism.

He talked about concepts and values, Morse said. But he rarely talked about who he knew or where he'd been. He was more concerned about nonviolence and justice. That's what he talked about."

During his final years, Vivian worked on a book about his life with author Steve Fiffer. Its in the Action: Memories of a Nonviolent Warrior" was published in March.

Dozens of people gathered at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum on Wednesday to hear about Vivian from Morse and Fiffer, with the author appearing by webcast from his home in Evanston, Illinois.

The presentation started with February 1965 TV news footage that grabbed international attention. It showed Vivian trying to help Black residents register to vote in Selma, Alabama. Face-to-face with a recalcitrant white official, Vivian said: You can't keep anyone in the United States from voting. The sheriff soon punched Vivian in the face, knocking him to the ground.

Three weeks later, thousands of people later marched across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma. Months after that, Congress enacted the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Vivian received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013 from then-President Barack Obama, a man who was born months after Vivian and other Freedom Riders were arrested in Mississippi.

____

Follow Emily Wagster Pettus on Twitter at http://twitter.com/EWagsterPettus.
NORWALK  More than 700 COVID vaccinations have been administered at clinics hosted by the citys public schools in the past month, a district spokesperson said Wednesday.

More than 500 Norwalk Public Schools students were vaccinated against COVID-19 last week during clinics held at the middle schools.

A total of 448 students 12 and older were vaccinated at Norwalk Community Health Center clinics at the middle schools, Norwalk CHC spokesperson Betty Cordellos said.

At last Wednesdays clinic at Ponus Ridge, 145 people were vaccinated. At last Thursdays clinic at West Rocks Middle School, 175 people were vaccinated and 128 vaccinations were administered Friday at Roton Middle School, Cordellos said.

No more than 5 percent of the shots administered during those clinics were for parents, Cordellos said.

Cordellos said Norwalk Community Health Centers Medical Mobil Unit will hold clinics on June 9, 10 and 11 to administer the second doses of the Pfizer vaccine.

Norwalk Community Health Center, in partnership with University of Connecticut nursing students, administered the vaccines from a mobile clinic in each schools parking lot last week.

At last Thursdays clinic, 106 West Rocks students were given the vaccine during school hours, Norwalk CHC Patient and Community Engagement Manager Orlando Aquino previously said.

For students who arrived after school with guardians, any older siblings or parents who have not been vaccinated were able to receive the first shot at the schools clinic as well, Aquino said. The clinics were walk-up and did not require appointments.

This week, Griffin Hospitals mobile unit held two additional clinics at Norwalk High and Brien McMahon high schools, NPS spokesperson Brenda Wilcox Williams said. With the school year ending in just a few weeks, we were very pleased to be able to facilitate student vaccinations, before students head off for the summer break.

In all, more than 700 vaccines have been administered at NPS-hosted clinics, Wilcox Williams said.

In April, the district partnered with Community Health Center to vaccinate high schoolers 16 and older at the CHC vaccination site in Stamford. About 650 vaccines were set aside for each of the two clinics, and hundreds of students were vaccinated, officials said.

Due to privacy laws, the district cannot share the percentage of students who have been vaccinated, Wilcox Williams said.

However, we do know anecdotally that many students have also been vaccinated outside of our clinics, Wilcox Williams said.

Aside from the second-dose clinics to be held in early June, there are no other vaccination clinics scheduled through NPS, Wilcox Williams said.

The district has not yet released plans for next school year regarding coronavirus precautions.

Were working on our plans for summer and next fall and adapting our operations as new guidance comes out from the CDC and the Connecticut State Department of Education, Wilcox Williams said.

Citywide, nearly 60 percent of Norwalkers have received the first vaccine dose, according to the state Department of Public Health data. More than 41,000 people, or about 46 percent of the city residents, are fully vaccinated, according to the data.

abigail.brone@hearstmediact.com
EDWARDSVILLE  The leader of a predator hunter group targeting alleged sexual predators is himself facing several felony and misdemeanor charges relating to a Jan. 12 incident.

Kyle P. Swanson, 30, of Wood River, has been indicted on charges of unlawful restraint and obstructing justice, both Class 4 felonies, and assault, a Class C misdemeanor.

Swanson was indicted May 6, but the indictments were suppressed until May 20.

The charges are ridiculous and my lawyer and I are not worried about the outcome because we know they have no lead to go on, he said.

Swanson is the public face of KTS Predator Hunters LLC, a group known for independent sting operations where they often confront and record people they accuse of attempting to meet up with under-aged victims.

While the groups efforts have resulted in charges in other counties, Madison County officials have been at odds with the group over its methods. At least one lawsuit had been filed against them after the subject of one of their operations lost his job.

The grand jurys decision here reflects the fundamental idea that when members of a community decide to take justice into their own hands, even for laudable purposes, they can place themselves and others in danger and damage potential cases, Madison County States Attorney Tom Haine said in a prepared statement. We have tremendous law enforcement agencies in Madison County, and the public needs to let them do their job.

The case was presented by the Illinois State Police after an investigation.

According to court documents, on Jan. 12 Swanson detained and threatened a man he enticed into his vehicle, and then tried to destroy evidence in the form of cell phone videos. Swanson posted a $40,000 bond; a preliminary hearing is set for 10 a.m. June 11 before Associate Judge Ron Slemer.

Swanson has organized a GoFundMe page to raise $80,000 for his legal defense. The page calls the charges ridiculous and said they were hoping for enough money to hire a top-tier lawyer to defend him.

As of early Monday evening it had raised $1,496 from 41 separate donors.

Some local law enforcement officials were critical of the group last year in part because of the risk of violent confrontation, and also because of procedural issues.

In July the KTS and the Madison County Sheriffs Department became involved in a dispute over an incident in a Walgreens parking lot. Both Alton and Madison County law enforcement officials said they received either no or haphazard information prior to the actual incident.

During the dispute, the sheriffs department made several postings in response to the incident on its Facebook page, but eventually took them down because of the confrontational nature of the groups responses, according to department officials.

At one point Swanson also posted on the groups public Facebook page that he plans to run as a write-in for Madison County Sheriff in 2022 just to show Im not  around.
WOOD RIVER  While plenty of work remains to be done before the Covid-19 pandemic officially ends, the numbers in Madison County and in Illinois continue to trend in a mostly positive direction.

The Madison County Health Department reported on its Covid-19 dashboard that the three-day positivity rate for the coronavirus was 2.67 percent as of Tuesday. That represents a significant drop from the three-day positivity rate of 7.52 percent on March 31.

The seven-day rolling average of confirmed new cases in the county was 19 as of Tuesday, well below the year-high seven-day rolling average of 203 cases on Jan. 10.

There were 17 confirmed new cases in the county on Tuesday, bringing the total to 30,259. Of that number, only 212 cases are listed as active.

There were 384 new Covid tests on Tuesday in the county, bringing the total to 326,817.

The coronavirus death toll in the county remains at 499, with no deaths reported on Tuesday.

There are currently seven Covid patients in Madison County hospitals, with one listed as being on a ventilator.

Madison County, which recently announced a series of Covid-19 vaccine clinics with 11 local public school districts, is currently vaccinating all individuals 12 years and older. They must be 12 or older for the Pfizer vaccine and must be 18 or older for the Modern or Johnson & Johnson vaccines.

Since May 13 when MCHD began vaccinating 12- to 15-year-olds, it has vaccinated 1,126 people in that age range. Since the beginning of vaccinations through May 24, MCHD has vaccinated 2,632 people ages 16-17.

Moderna said Tuesday its Covid-19 vaccine strongly protects kids as young as 12, a step that could put the shot on track to become the second option for that age group in the United States. Moderna says it will submit its teen data to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and other global regulators early next month.

Pfizer is the only vaccine in the U.S. currently authorized for use for ages 12 to 17.

On Wednesday, state officials reported 1,139 new and probable cases of Covid-19 and 27 additional deaths, along with more than 59,000 vaccinations administered.

The newly reported coronavirus cases bring the state total to 1,378,388 cases since the pandemic began and lift the total Illinois death toll to 22,676, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health.

In the last 24 hours, 42,841 coronavirus test specimens were returned to state laboratories, with more than 24.3 million now conducted during the pandemic.

Officials also said Wednesday that 66 percent of adults in the state have received at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine, which is nearing President Joe Bidens goal of 70 percent of adults with one at least one shot by July 4.

Region 4, which includes Madison County, currently has the lowest seven-day rolling test positivity rate in the state at 2.5 percent.

Illinois entered its Bridge Phase on May 14, meaning it is a step closer to Phase 5, which is a full reopening and lifting of Covid-19 restrictions.

Under Bridge Phase, there are expanded capacity limits for businesses, dining, offices, events, conferences, and gatherings.

Barring any significant reversals in key Covid-19 statewide indicators, including increasing hospitalizations, Illinois could enter Phase 5 as soon as June 11.

For more information about the Madison County school vaccine clinics and other clinics, visit madisonhd.org and click on the appointments button.
Dominic Genetti

If youve ever wondered what life was like in a soldiers camp at the turn of the 19th century, youll be able to experience it this summer.

Soldiers of the War of 1812 is an event that will be put on at the historic Colonel Benjamin Stephenson House on Saturday, July 17. Stephenson himself was a veteran of that particular war.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 09:29:26|Editor: huaxia

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A police officer stands guard near the scene of a shooting in San Jose, California, the United States, May 26, 2021. Nine people were killed and at least another injured Wednesday morning after a shooting at a Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) yard north of downtown San Jose in the U.S. state of California, according to local authorities. (Photo by Li Jianguo/Xinhua)

SAN FRANCISCO, May 26 (Xinhua) -- Nine people were killed and at least another injured Wednesday morning after a shooting at a Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) yard north of downtown San Jose in the U.S. state of California, according to local authorities.

The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office confirmed that nine people, including the gunman, died at the scene and one person was taken to a hospital, with no details on their conditions.

"The whole crew is gone, the whole shift is gone," a VTA worker was quoted as saying in a San Jose local news report.

Law enforcement officials identified the gunman as Samuel Cassidy, a 57-year-old VTA maintenance worker, whose motivation remained unknown.

Sheriff's officials and VTA officials confirmed that the shooting occurred at the facility at 101 Younger Avenue, and some of the victims were VTA employees.

At about 6:35 a.m. (1335 GMT), San Jose police received multiple 911 calls about gunfire at the VTA yard, and units responded to the scene. The shooter was confirmed dead at about 8:10 a.m. (1510 GMT).

Officials of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Department of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms were at the shooting scene and were actively engaged in the investigation. Sheriff's bomb squad personnel also were called to the VTA facility to do a thorough search for possible explosive devices, local media reported.

"There are at least eight families who will never be whole again. Every life taken by a bullet pierces the soul of our nation," U.S. President Joe Biden tweeted on the tragedy.

California Governor Gavin Newsom arrived at the VTA facility Wednesday afternoon and met with the families impacted by the shooting. He said at a press briefing that the "country needs to take action on gun violence."

"This is a horrific day for our city, and it's a tragic day for the VTA family," San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo said. "Our heart pains for the families and the co-workers because we know that so many are feeling deeply this loss of their loved ones and their friends."

A reunification center for VTA employees and families was set up at the County Building near the scene for those who may be looking for each other, officials said.

VTA light rail service was suspended at noon until further notice.

A vigil will be held at City Hall Plaza in San Jose on Thursday evening for the victims of the mass shooting. Enditem
A recall effort targeting a Shepherd school board member will go forward after an Isabella County judge rejected the member's appeal of an ele
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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 10:18:40|Editor: huaxia

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Traditional musical instruments and artworks are displayed at an exhibition during the launch of the Africa Day theme rollout in Lusaka, Zambia, May 26, 2021. Zambia on Wednesday launched the rollout exercise of promoting the 2021 Africa Day commemoration. The theme for this year's commemoration is "Arts, Culture and Heritage: Levers for Building the Africa We Want." (Photo by Martin Mbangweta/Xinhua)
The Wayne County Prosecutor's Office has charged a man in connection with the killing of a pet parakeet after a video surfaced showing the bird being crushed and slammed to the ground.

Ali Chehade, 22, of Dearborn, is facing a third-degree animal killing charge, punishable by up to four years in prison.

He was arraigned May 27 in 24th District Court and given a $50,000/10% bond with a psychological evaluation requirement and is not allowed to have animals or pets in his house.

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A probable cause conference is set for June 7 and a preliminary examination of the evidence against is scheduled for June 18.

Police were called to Critter Pet Shop, 19309 Ecorse Road, Allen Park, on May 18 and found the dead parakeet in a smashed cardboard box.

The prosecutor's office alleges Chehade smashed the bird with his fist and foot before fleeing the scene.

After video of the incident surfaced, the owner of the pet shop said calls have been coming in from New York to Los Angeles and people have wanted an answer to one main question  who is the man that allegedly killed this parakeet in a fit of anger?

Allen Park Police LT. Jim Thorburn said, the level of craze just keeps one-upping itself.

Thorburn said the Dearborn man became irate because he couldnt return the parakeet for a $30 refund.

Police were told when Chehade tried to return the bird, it already had blood on its wing and appeared to be injured.

It was Michael Simms, co-owner of the pet store, who had the confrontation with Chehade inside the store.

He tried to explain the stores policy about returned pets, and then offered him store credit for the parakeet, but not a refund.

It was then when Chehade is accused of killing the bird.

Nick Simms, the owner, said he saw the incident unfold on video surveillance and commended his store manager, Chris Borus, who held Michael Simms back from getting into a physical confrontation with Chehade.

Hes a pretty big dude and he works out every morning, Simms said of his brother. Everybody wishes Chris would have let him go.

The owner said had Borus allowed that to happen, his brother might also be facing charges.

It took everything for him to hold his temper, Simms said of his brother.

Police were able to find out Chehade's identity from a video surveillance camera that captured his license plate. It was traced to a residence in Dearborn.

Thorburn said police initially called and left a message for him, which he returned and left an officer a message.

Since that time, police said Chehade stopped trying to communicate.

Not only has the pet store been slammed with calls about the incident, so have police.

That doesnt surprise Thorburn.

He said animals draw an enormous amount of attention and anger from avid pet owners when they are mistreated.

Thorburn said the store was filled with customers that evening.

Officers did not have to question them since the entire event is captured on surveillance video.

Nick Simms said the store has been in business for 43 years and has never encountered anything like this before.

Since the incident went public, he said customers have been coming in the store expressing how sorry they are that this occurred.

Some feared the store might even close over the incident.

Nick Simms said there is no chance of that happening.

In fact, there are plans in the works for some improvements, but he said everyone will be more mindful of their surroundings moving forward.

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Over the years, the family has had a running conversation about who has had the most outrageous experience with a customer.

Nick Simms said he had the most outlandish customer until this incident occurred.

Mike came in and said, I think Ive got everyone beat, Simms said.

Nick Simms agrees with his brother that this was "a whole new level of crazy.

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The worsening insecurity within the regions of Nigeria continues to grow with little abatement in sight. This is as information available to 247ureports.com obtained from firsthand witnesses indicate the many communities within the federal capital territory [FCT], Abuja has virtually fallen under the grips of the unfolding fear that has already overtaken many regions of Nigeria.

See Bandits Over Running Abuja FCT for the nature of the unfolding threat in Abuja.

Roughly less than a month following a looting attack at Arab road at Kubwa where a group of northern youths believed to be Hausa/Fulani launched on the merchants and began looting the properties in broad day light

Hausa youths declare anarchy in Abuja community, massive looting], another group consisting of northern youths struck at Karu market in Karu  resulting in the death one person. The Karu incident occurred on the afternoon of Sunday May 9.

Within two days, another deadlier conflict ensued at Orozo community around Arab Junction. The initial conflict was between the northern youths comprising largely of Hausa youths and youths from Niger Republic and indigenes of Orozo [Gbagi]. One of the Hausa youths had reported slapped the indigenous monarch when the monarch pleaded with the Keke Napep operators to make way for his vehicle to pass. The slap did not go down well with the youths of the community.

Efforts to quell the brewing fight was tossed when the Hausa took to the streets with lit vehicle tyres  blocking the streets and burning shops and rioting. Merchants deserted the area running for their lives. The Hausa youths used the burning tyres to block the vehicular traffic heading towards Karshi  and the traffic heading towards Nyanya. They were holding knives and big sticks. Their action lasted for about 45minutes.

Not able to bare the bold face charade, the youths of Orozo community quickly organized and took to the streets to meet toe to toe with the rioting Hausa youths. It quickly degenerated to an all out brawl  of knives and sticks  hitting and slicing through skins. Many tricycles with damaged and lit on fire while some persons suffered injury. Unverified but reliable source indicates two Hausa folks who were injured during the battle later died owing to the injuries. One of the Hausa youths was stabbed in the stomach while the other youth was hit severally on the head with a heavy stick.

But the police in talking to 247ureports.com denied that any lives were lost. The DPO of Karshi acknowledged two Hausa youths sustained serious injuries. But survived it. Do you want to light Nigeria on fire, nobody died. Nobody was killed in Orozo. Everything is calm now.

Two days following the clash at Orozo, a group of youths dressed in garbs identified as Fulani arrived Arab Junction around 12noon  and began damaging shops and looting. They set fires to some of the businesses at Arab Junction. One of the food merchant was forced to abandon for restaurant to the bandits. They may away with her sales for the day and her mobile phone. They also set her shop on fire.

It took the intervention of Orozo youths who quickly organized to pose a fight to the Fulani youths at Arab Junction. After heated battle of knives and sticks, the Fulani were driven away. But before leaving, the Fulani promised to return again to complete and/or continued the fight.

One of the frontline youths of Orozo who sustained a head injury during the fight with Fulani died a few days after the battled. His is popularly known as Hardcore. The entire community mourned his lose. He was buried the next day.

Meanwhile, Orozo community remains at an alert in fear of a possible return by the Fulani. The vigilante men of the community has since double in the number and the night patrol has also been intensified. Most nights, the air space is filled with sounds of gunshots that would last from 1am till 4am.

One of the police officers station in Orozo told 247ureports.com that the police is handicapped in the sense that they lack the manpower to properly police the area. Do you know that the entire Karshi/Orozo area is manned by less than 95 police officers.

Federal Science and Technology

The police source points to sensitive infrastructures located in Orozo that needs the attention and presence of the police  such the Federal Science and Technical College, Treasury Academy, a large Anglican and Catholic Church located near Arab Junction, LEA Primary and secondary school, Orozo market  among others. At the Orozo sub-police outpost, there are only about 2 police officers stationed at the post at a given time. No weapons.

Report Credit:247ureports
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It's no longer news that Nigeria is currently facing a myriad of socio-economic and political problems, including those threatening her peace and unity. What is news is the persistent failure of our political leaders to learn from their mistakes and secure the future of the country. These problems include different forms of insecurity like banditry, kidnapping, farmers/herders crisis, attacks on security agencies and offices of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, widening poverty rate, fiscal and economic crunch, poor governance, lack of equity and fairness, crude politics among others. Bad news have become the order of our time that no day passes by without reports of kidnappings, killings and agitations here and there. Unlike when the northeast used to be the only 'theatre' of war, every part of the country is now unsafe for the inhabitants. People have been sacked from their ancestral homes by marauders and their means of livelihood threatened, with nobody to cry to for liberation.

These problems have brought unhappiness, resentment, rife, anger, anguish, dissension, apprehension, uncertainty, mistrust, doubts, desolation, hopelessness; just name the feelings and above all, an increase in separatist movements. These are the feelings pervading the country because the government, which swore to protect the people, has abdicated its responsibility and left them at the mercy of their traducers. In some parts of the country, people hardly sleep with their two eyes closed, no thanks to the activities of criminal herdsmen, bandits and unknown gunmen.

What worries most people now, is not just the festering of the problems, but how they have been handled or being handled. For instance, it was the poor handling of the herders/farmers crisis that made it hydra-headed and gave birth to some other consequential multiple problems. The body language of the federal government has been louder than its actions, perhaps the conclusion in some quarters that the government of the day is either incompetent or in tacit support of the killings in the land. The federal government has not really shown sincerity of purpose towards tackling the challenges facing the country. If the government is not paying lip service, it is playing the ostrich and advertently or inadvertently pushing an inordinate ethnic agenda. The law enforcement agencies on their part, have not helped matters, as their approach to tackling the herdsmen menace is nothing, but uncomplimentary. Other than serve the interest of the people, the security forces serve the interest of the ruling class.

The resultant effect is loss of confidence in the government of the day and invariably, loss of faith in the country. The handling of the herdsmen challenge has made some Nigerians conclude that the One Nigeria slogan is nothing, but a ruse. Social justice has taken the back seat and people, who care to fight for the right to live and earn a living in their lands are massacred with no one being held accountable. This explains the anger, fight-back and arms struggle in the land now. Evidently, the country is descending into anarchy and barbarism. For instance, apart from the unknown gunmen syndrome, Anambra state has in the past couple of days seen a rise in jungle justice in Onitsha environs as the citizens are losing hope in the ability and capacity of the government and security agencies to protect their lives and property. People are now taking laws into their own hands. Some criminal suspects who were arrested recently in Nkpor, Obosi and Onitsha were given the tyre treatment.

Furthermore, we have also seen an increase quest for balkanization of Nigeria or increased agitation for secession. Aside the year-long Biafra agitation by the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, we have seen the revival or reincarnation of the agitation for Ooduduwa Republic. It was the poor handling of the killer herdsmen menace that threw up Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho who had announced the secession of the Southwest region from Nigeria and christened it the Republic of Oduduwa in honour of the mythical progenitor of the Yoruba people of the Southwest. During his declaration, Igboho said the major resources of Nigeria were in the hands of Northerners, stressing that Yorubas were being killed and their land taken over.If the police attack us for that, we are ready for them. We do not want Nigeria again but the Yoruba nation. There is no essence for one Nigeria when the major resources in the country are in the hands of the northerners. Enough is enough. There is no going back We are not scared of anybody. These killer herders are taking over our land and they are killing our people, Igboho said in a viral video.

On the other hand, there has been tension in the southeast and south-south geopolitical zones of the country. The once peaceful areas are no longer at ease. They have become the operational base of unknown gunmen, who have in the past couple of months taken an unknown war to security personnel serving in the two geo-political zones. The police, military, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Nigeria Correctional Services and the INEC are all victims of the dastardly activities of the unknown Gunmen. Every atrocious act in these places, including attacks on public infrastructure is attributed to that newest coinage of the press, used to describe a group of daring young people, who have taken to arms in rebellion against the Nigerian state as a way to let out their frustration over the turn of things in Nigeria. Many security personnel, police stations, operational vehicles, INEC offices and facilities have been lost to the operations of these men. While it is not clear what the mission of the unknown gunmen is, it cannot be extricated from a retinue of maladies, bad governance, including chronic injustice in the country.

The pervading air of insecurity, as well as uprisings across the country is a pointer that Nigeria is on a precipice and needs to be rescued urgently. We are at a stage that demands a paradigm shift to save this country. At this point of our national life, it shouldnt be business as usual. It is expected of the political leaders to cease this undesirable opportunity to speedily begin to attend to those imperatives that have been left unattended because of sentimental politics. It is time to eschew personal and group interests to save Nigeria from the imminent collapse. Governments, both at the federal and state levels need to embark on urgent reforms and commit themselves to good governance. The tripod to save Nigeria would be commitment to equity, justice and fairness. The fourth is nationalism. Kinetic approach to dealing with the uprisings and insecurity will only bring respite, but not a remedy. The government should stop its perennial lip service and be seen to be committed to providing good governance and addressing all the injustices in the land. The federal government should stand up for Nigeria, other than for one tribe. What would it cost the administration of president Muhammadu Buhari to state categorically that open grazing of cattle is not akin to spare parts business in the north? The president must not back the ban on open grazing as declared by the southern governors, but the president can affirm the truth that cattle rearing is a private business, hence should be run like one. He should take the fight to the killer herdsmen and eschew sentiment in handling the herders/farmers crisis. The president should call the likes of his Senior Special Assistant on media and publicity Garba Shehu and the minister of justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami to order as their utterances on the ban on open grazing have been inglorious.

It is also important to note that the situation in the country, calls for a self-assessment by the police. The ugly trend of attack on the police with cheers from the people presents an opportunity to reform or evolve a force with a new face. Is it not appalling and antithetical to see people hailing gunmen attack on the police that protects them? It is said that police is your friend, but how many Nigerians can attest to that? The federal government should pursue the implementation of the laudable provisions of the Nigeria Police Bill, 2020. The Act repeals the Police Act Cap. P19. Laws of the Federation, 2004, and provides for a more effective and well organized Police Force, driven by the principles of efficiency and effectiveness; protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms; partnership with other security institutions, transparency and accountability in its operations and management of its resources. Among others, the Act establishes an appropriate funding framework for the Police in line with what is obtainable in other Federal Government key institutions, enhances professionalism in the Force through increased training opportunities, and creates an enduring cooperation and partnership between the Police Force and communities in maintaining peace and combating crimes nationwide. Police does not function in isolation of the people. However, two can only work, when they agree. There are wonderful provisions in the police act that if committed to, will definitely professionalise the Nigerian Police force.

The police authorities should purge the force of bad eggs, punish infractions and unprofessional conducts. On the agenda of the police now, should be how to win the confidence of the people back. An every Nigerian suspects the police and is reserved about giving information to the police. People doubt virtually every information that comes from the police because it has long lost its credibility. The Nigerian government and the police should commit to implementing the 5 demands of the #EndSARS protesters which it promised to fulfil, but has been foot-dragging on it. The police should reconsider its approach to public relations. Information management does not mean hoarding of information and distortion of facts.

The Nigerian police must see this precarious time as a springboard to pay attention to the recruitment process, training, retraining and discipline of men of the force. There should be consequence for an action. A new training model for the men and officers of the force needs to be developed. Understanding of the provisions of the police Act should be the standard for testing applicants for police enlistment. Police authorities must stand up to bribery and extortion, while we expect the federal government to consider special funding for the police, outside what is provided for in the Police Trust Fund (Establishment) Act which was signed into Law by President Muhammadu Buhari and came into force on 24th of June 2019. If the police purges itself of the unholy excesses in a time like this, they will find so much support and back-up in the citizens.

Our greatest undoing will be, if we fail again to learn from history and the mistakes of the past. Posterity will not be kind to our leaders of today, if Nigeria collapses in their hands.
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As gathered from an online encyclopedia, Wikipedia, Children's Day is celebrated on 27 May in Nigeria. It was established as a holiday in 1964. It is a public holiday for Primary and Secondary school children. Due to the large size of the country, only a few groups of children (schools or other organizations) are selected to march past in a parade. The children are usually given treats such as an outing or doing jobs that adults would normally do. In some situations, primary and secondary school children compete in military parades format for a prize which will be given at the end of the competition. Religious groups in Nigeria also celebrate children's day in grand style. Many private and public organizations usually put together children's party for privileged and less privileged children in a bid to give them a sense of belonging. It is also a day media organizations analyze the plight of children in the society and efforts government and nongovernment agencies make to better a lot of children.

Despite the philosophy behind its conceptualization of the special day, it is obvious that the plight of street children is not in any way been put into consideration in Nigeria, yet our leaders kept celebrating it every year with tongue-in-cheek promises and rhetoric just like today being May 27. It is not an exaggeration to say that street children or urchins are a creation of rapid urbanization and its concomitant aberrations.

Without any scintilla of hyperbole, it is expedient to opine in this context that that with the growing spatial inequities, dwindling farmlands, physical exertion required in peasant farming and the glamour of cities that millions of Nigerians in rural areas are daily migrating in droves into urban spaces, and in the process radically redefining the geo-sociological nature of cities and continue to pose formidable challenges to planners and policy makers. Against the foregoing backdrop, it is salient in this context to recall that the UN in 2015 projects world population to reach 8.5 billion by 2030, driven by growth in developing countries. Despite the prediction, it appears policy makers in Nigeria are less concerned, and there is a major subtext to this story that youth will account for a large proportion in this demographic transition. This "demographic bulge" is seen both as a potential problem as well as a future resource.

To put it in an understandable perspective, street children follows the widely accepted conceptualization by Unicef, which is: "Boys and girls aged under 18 for whom "the street" (including unoccupied dwellings and wasteland) has become home and/or their source of livelihood, and who are inadequately protected or supervised." The increasing number of street children is also an expression of the negative impact of globalization on the poorest of the poor. In fact, globalization fosters urbanization, including the promises of a better life in the cities with less hardship than in the countryside.

In fact, the loss of traditional family values and the adoption of individually shaped urban life often create a desire for "Streetism. The subculture of the street can in some cases become a substitute for community life for children. The street can be a place of exclusion and marginalization but also a place for socialization and integration. As Nigeria marks Children Day today, it is only appropriate that we spare a thought for these children that are unarguably lost on the streets of Kaduna, Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Benin and other cities.

It is so sad that most Nigerians despise these children by each passing day and walk right passed them without even sparing a thought on how they can be helped. In most cases, we dont even give them a second thought let alone the actual issue of homelessness as a whole. Becoming homeless can happen rather quickly, and paradoxically takes longer to be reintegrated back into the society. Living on the streets is tough for either a man or a woman not to talk of vulnerable children. They get kicked, beaten, laughed and jeered at.

It is salient to correct the erroneous impression that only the government should be responsible in helping these children on the streets. Given the plethora of NGOs, religious bodies, and manufacturers of children products and providers of pediatric services, it is not an act of ingratitude to say that Nigeria is yet to be supported enough in tackling street children related challenges so that they can have equal opportunities in accessing education like other children at home with their parents or guardians. In fact, there is an urgent need to help these children on the streets as it is very obvious that they have much lower chances of being able to attend school.

The main problem is simple: in Nigeria, primary schools are free, but you must pay for secondary or higher education, the fees of which are too high for many underprivileged children. As a result, the future obviously looks bleak for this children on the streets even as they equally pose as threat to the countrys future security architecture. However, the challenges they are faced with can be nipped in the bud if they are assisted.

To Lagosians that are conversant with Oshodi/Mushin/Isolo axis, they will agree with this writer that street urchins can be classified under two major categories; depending on how much time they spend on the streets.

The first category of children lives at home and they are on the streets to earn for their livings and support their families. They are often forced by their parents to do everything they can to earn money and such children do any possible job requiring minimum skills or knowledge. They are engaged in all kinds of menial jobs, begging, sometimes in prostitution or into other illegal activities connected with menial income.

Children in the second category accept the streets as their homes and the only place for living, because they sleep and live on the streets. These children usually do not have any ties with their families and siblings. They sun away from their homes for various reasons. In most cases, conflicts with parents or family members force them to go to the streets.

At this juncture, it is expedient to appeal to the government and NGOs that street children should be assisted to become part of us. Today, being Children Day should be set aside to think about their plight. In fact, it is expedient to note that street children are a worldwide phenomenon, and it is not peculiar to Nigeria. It suffices to say that a number of these children has been increasing. These are the runaway children who struggle for their survival. It is not an exaggeration to say that the situation is by each passing day becoming grimmer. So, there is a need of conducting study on their status, and also the role of media in this regard. It is not enough for children to be observing Children Days holiday every year without anything being done for them. They are Nigerians as well. We should spare a thought on their plight.
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As part of their oversight functions, the National Assembly (NASS) Joint Committee on Defence and Air Force are currently in the United States of America (USA) on inspection tour of Embraer Defence Security Incorporated (EDSI), manufacturers of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) A-29 Super Tucano aircraft. Specifically, members of the joint committee are in the USA to assess the status and progress of work on the NAF A-29 Super Tucano aircraft. On arrival at EDSI yesterday, 27 May 2021, the NASS team led by Senator Michael Nnachi, was briefed on the progress of work on the NAF A-29 Super Tucano programme and the scheduled date of delivery.

While briefing the NASS team, Colonel Authur Ford of the United States Air Force Fighters and Advance Aircraft Directorate stated that 10 out of the 12 aircraft were ready for delivery while 2 were undergoing modification and integration to NAF specific operational configuration. He went on to state that 6 of the aircraft are scheduled to arrive in Nigeria in July 2021 while the remaining 6 will be delivered before the end of October 2021. The NASS team was assured that the aircraft, expected to play critical roles in the fight against insurgency and criminality, would be delivered as planned.

Responding, Senator Michael Nnachi commended EDSI for the quality of work on the NAF A-29 Super Tucano. He however queried the long duration of time from the date of full payment to expected date of delivery, which he estimated to be between 3 to 4 years. In response, the Col Ford informed the team that the long duration was due to the challenges of configuring the aircraft to fit NAFs required specifications.

The visiting team which also included Honourables Babajimi Benson, Shehu Koko, Abubakar Maki and Honourable Abass Adigun were received on arrival at Jacksonville, Florida by the Nigerian Defence Attache to the USA, Air Commodore Jibrin Usman, the Lead Foreign Liaison Officer on the A-29, Air Vice Marshal Sule Lawal and senior management staff EDSI.

EDWARD GABKWET

Air Commodore

Director of Public Relations and Information

Nigerian Air Force

27 May 2021


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Ndi Igbo and the entire southern Nigeria have lost it again, as President Muhammadu Buhari snubbed them and appointed another northerner as the new Chief of Army Staff.

According to a statement issued on Thursday, by the Acting Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, the new Chief of Army Staff is Major General Farouk Yahaya, who hails from Bodinga Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

The statement reads, "The Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari has appointed Major General Farouk Yahaya as the new Chief of Army Staff.

"Prior to his appointment, Major General Yahaya was the General Officer Commanding 1 Division of the Nigerian Army and the incumbent Theatre Commander of the Counter Terrorism Counter Insurgency military outfit in the North East, code named Operation HADIN KAI.

"Please disseminate this information to the general public through your news medium.

Thank you for your cooperation."

It would be recalled that the immediate-past Nigeria's Chief of Army Staff, General Ibrahim Attahiru died barely six days ago, in a plane crash that occurred in Kaduna, which also cost the lives of some other officers of the Nigerian military.

Ever since then, opinions and counter opinions have been making wave, as to who would be the possible successor of the Late Attahiru.

Many top-ranking officers were outlined as possible successors, among whom Anambra's Major General Ben Ahanotu topped the list as one of the most senior officers in the Nigerian Army.

Major General Ahanotu who hails from Ukpor in Nnewi South LGA of Anambra State, is a member of Regular Course 35, same as late COAS Attahiru.

He was the commander of the military operation that captured the founder of Boko Haram, Mohammed Yusuf, and his followers at their hideout in Maiduguri in 2009 before handing them over to the police.

He has also been the Chief of Policy and Plan of the Nigerian Army.

However, against all speculations, President Buhari snubbed the Igbos again, by ignoring Ahanotu and appointing Yahaya as the country's new Chief of Army Staff.
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The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Anambra State Command has arrested a man for allegedly defiling his three underage daughters.

This was contained in a statement issued to newsmen in Awka, by the Civil Defence Public Relations Officer, Anambra State Command, ASC I Okadigbo Edwin.

According to him, the 48-year old pedophile, Mr. Igbo Thomas, who hails from Okolo Ani Village Igbo Etiti L.G.A. of Enugu State but resides at Enuoji Village, Enugwu-Ukwu in Njikoka L.G.A. of Anambra State, was arrested for having unlawful canal knowledge of his three biological daughters who are aged 8 years, 3 years, and 18 months respectively.

The statement reads, "On 24/05/2021, at about 11: 00hrs, based on the complaints to the Command by an NGO Child Protection Network (CPN) that a man had been having unlawful canal knowledge of his biological daughters aged 8, 3,18 months, the State Commandant of NSCDC Anambra State Command, Comdt David Bille, FCIA, raised and instructed a team of detectives from Intelligence and Investigation Department to effect the arrest of the suspect.

"The team immediately swung into action through intelligence-led operation, and at about 16:00hrs same day arrested one Mr. IGBO THOMAS 'm' of OKOLO ANI VILLAGE IGBO ETITI LGA ENUGU STATE but residing at ENUOJI VILLAGE, Enugwu Ukwu in Njikoka L.G.A. of Anambra State.

"Upon intorregation, the suspect initially denied but when he was confronted by his daughters, he became dumbfounded and confessed to have committed the crime but under the influence of alcohol. The children were quickly taken to hospital for medical attention.

"The State Commandant has ordered for discrete investigation, after which the suspect will be charged to court."

In a related development, the NSCDC also arrested an Awka-based suspected cultists, Solomon Isaac who jumped into the premises of the NSCDC Headquarters, in search for safety, as a rival cult gang was after his life.

Disclosing this to newsmen, the Civil Defence PRO, Edwin said, "On 24/ 05/2021, at about 1935hrs, a suspected cultist, Solomon Isaac 'm' aged 28, of Ejule town OFU L.G.A. of Kogi State but residing at Road 2 Abuja Estate, Awka, was arrested when he jumped into the office premises of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Anambra State Command.

"Upon intorregation, he confessed to being chased by some cultist who were trailing him before he jumped into the premises of NSCDC.

"Investigation is ongoing and upon conclusion, Suspect will be charged to court."
The first contract proposal from Oakland Universitys faculty union was expected to be submitted Wednesday.
The number of people killed in vehicle crashes in Michigan jumped 10 percent in 2020 compared to the year prior, with 1,083 lives lost  the most since 2007 when 1,084 people died from crashes, according to data released this week from Michigan State Police.

Of the fatal crashes, 30 percent  or 326  were alcohol-related, marking an 11 percent increase from 2019 when 295 fatal crashes were alcohol-related.

The totals also show a 3-year high in crash deaths overall, with fewer than 1,000 occurring in 2019 and 2018.

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On a positive note, 2020 saw a decline in the number of injuries, crashes and serious injuries compared to 2019. In 2020, 60,896 were reported compared to 74,693 injuries reported in 2019  a 19 percent dip. Crashes were down 22 percent in 2020 from the year prior, with 245,432 reported in 2020, compared to 314,377 in 2019. And suspected serious injuries dropped 3 percent, with 5,433 reported in 2020 compared to 5,629 in 2019.

Even though there was a dramatic drop in traffic crashes and injuries during 2020, there was an unfortunate surge in fatalities, Michael L. Prince, director of the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning stated in a news release.

Prince also stated that the OHSP will coordinate high-visibility enforcement campaigns over the summer, focusing on seat belt use and impaired driving to reverse the recent trends.

Most states, including Michigan, are seeing a jump in fatal crashes but a decrease in crashes overall, according to Prince, which could indicate a rise in severity possibly due to increases in impairment and speed, as well as less seat belt use, but further analysis is needed.

Other 2020 crash-related statistics :

 Bicycle fatalities: 38 (up 81 percent from 2019)

 Motorcyclist fatalities: 152 (up 25 percent from 2019)

 Pedestrian fatalities: 175 (up 17 percent from 2019)

 Commercial motor vehicle fatalities: 78 (down 26 percent from 2019)

 Deer-involved fatalities: 5 (down 58 percent from 2019)

 School bus-involved fatalities: 0

 Train-involved fatalities: 0

MSP said more detailed 2020 crash information will be posted in the coming months at MichiganTrafficCrashFacts.org.

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 11:04:38|Editor: huaxia

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Zhang Xiaofang diagnoses a patient at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province, on April 27, 2021. At 101, ophthalmologist Zhang Xiaofang continues to treat patients with an unwavering spirit as people queue up at his clinic in Zhengzhou. (Xinhua/Li An)

by Xinhua writers Lyu Qiuping, Wang Shuo

ZHENGZHOU, May 27 (Xinhua) -- At 101, ophthalmologist Zhang Xiaofang continues to treat patients with an unwavering spirit as people queue up at his clinic in Zhengzhou, capital of central China's Henan Province.

A renowned ophthalmologist at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhang sees patients every Tuesday as long as his health permits.

The waiting room is always packed with patients, and he barely has any time to have a sip of water during the visiting hours.

"The patients come all the way here to see me, I would feel sorry if I can't treat them well," said the centenarian.

Zhang is the founder of intraocular foreign body research in China and an academic leader in eye injury treatment. He joined the Communist Party of China (CPC) in 1980.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of the CPC. Over the past century, Zhang has witnessed as well as participated in the development of China's healthcare.

Born in a doctor's family in 1920, Zhang often accompanied his father to work.

"It was fascinating to see patients in pain leave with satisfaction following treatment," said Zhang, adding that this inspired him to become a doctor.

The desire to treat and save lives further strengthened after 1937, when Japanese troops launched a full-scale invasion against China. Two years later, Zhang was admitted to what is now the College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University.

As someone from a humble financial background, he could barely afford stationeries so he found his own unconventional solutions. He would pin rough papers to make notebooks, turn fabric dye into ink and sharpen a wood stick to use as a writing pen after dipping it in the colored water. He got up early every day to study and continued studying until late in the dim light at night.

"We studied very hard simply to serve and save the country," Zhang said recalling the childhood days. They also had to move with the school from time to time to shun warfare.

At that time, the young CPC was leading the nation to fight the invaders. Many students, including two of his classmates, joined the Party.

"From them, I learned about the Party's call for the Anti-Japanese National United Front, as well as heroes such as Yang Jingyu and Zhao Shangzhi. I was particularly inspired," said Zhang.

Yang and Zhao were both CPC members who led the fight against the Japanese invaders in northeast China and were killed in the war.

In 1949, when the People's Republic of China was founded, Zhang was already head of ophthalmology in a hospital. On holidays, he, together with several young doctors, would ride bicycles to the countryside, factories and schools to offer free clinical treatment.

They found that many people had eye diseases such as trachoma, with many ailing with its complications and sequelae.

"If they were administered proper treatment, blindness could be completely avoided," said Zhang.

With the country forging toward industrial development in the 1950s, an increasing number of workers suffered from eye injuries caused by improper industrial operations or accidents.

Foreign objects such as scrap iron and copper sometimes led to blindness if they were not taken out of the eye in time. After countless setbacks and sleepless nights, Zhang developed some safe, simple and effective methods to locate and remove intraocular foreign bodies named "Zhang Xiaofang methods," including a grid method.

Zhang won international fame after his book titled "Location and intraocular foreign body extraction" was published in 1976. This was the world's first publication specifically on intraocular foreign bodies. Six years later, Zhang attended the 24th International Congress of Ophthalmology in the United States, sharing his experience on removing intraocular foreign bodies based on 3,000 clinic cases.

Zhang has turned down multiple offers from foreign universities.

"I gained all my experiences in China. I want to give back to the country where I was born and raised," he said.

Zhang submitted 17 applications for joining the CPC and became a Party member in 1980.

"Having lived in a war-torn country, our generation knows better that people cannot live a good life without a prosperous country and a great Party," he said.

After becoming a Party member, he felt more responsible for his patients. He would explain the cause, treatment and precautions in detail, spending an average of 40 minutes with each patient.

"Doctor Zhang is very meticulous in treating people. He is really patient whenever he is asked questions," said a patient surnamed Wang.

After the reform and opening-up in the late 1970s, China witnessed a leap in economic and social development. It has become the world's second-largest economy, contributing more than 30 percent to global economic growth for years. The quality of people's lives, as well as healthcare, has significantly improved.

Zhang said that when he first joined the workforce, there were only a few slit-lamp microscopes in Henan, which could solve very limited ophthalmic problems.

"Now, we have the world's most advanced equipment and can carry out all the cutting-edge treatments," said Zhang with a sense of pride.

As the founder and editor-in-chief of a journal on ocular trauma and occupational eye disease, Zhang insists on personally reviewing and editing every article.

"I've never thought of retirement. I feel happy as long as I have work," said the ophthalmologist. Enditem

(Intern Fang Anran contributed to the story.)
A crowd gathers in this file photo of Royal Oak Veterans War Memorial on Memorial Day several years ago. A lawsuit was filed Tuesday on behalf of veterans and residents who gathered petitions for a proposed ordinance to stop the city from moving the memorial 40 feet as part a new downtown park design. The proposed ballot was deem "legally insufficient" by Royal Oak's interim city attorney.
Biden orders intelligence report on COVID origins within 90 days

WORLD: President Joe Biden yesterday (May 26) ordered US intelligence agencies to report to him in the next three months on whether the COVID-19 virus first emerged in China from an animal source or from a laboratory accident.

ChineseCoronavirusCOVID-19death

By AFP

Thursday 27 May 2021, 10:21AM

Bidens order signals an escalation in mounting controversy over how the virus first emerged - through animal contact at a market in Wuhan, China, or through release of the coronavirus from a highly secure research laboratory in the same city. Photo: AFP.

Agencies should redouble their efforts to collect and analyze information that could bring us closer to a definitive conclusion, and to report back to me in 90 days, Biden said in a statement released by the White House.

According to Biden, agencies are currently split over the two possible sources for the virus that swept the planet over the past year, killing more than 3.4 million people - a figure experts say is undoubtedly an underestimate.

Bidens order signals an escalation in mounting controversy over how the virus first emerged - through animal contact at a market in Wuhan, China, or through release of the coronavirus from a highly secure research laboratory in the same city.

The answer has immense implications both for China, which says it is not responsible for the pandemic, and for the United States.

Representative Adam Schiff, chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, called on China to be forthcoming and for premature or politically-motivated conclusions to be avoided.

Beijings continued obstruction of a transparent, comprehensive examination of the relevant facts and data about the source of the coronavirus can only delay the vital work necessary to help the world better prepare itself before the next potential pandemic, Schiff said.

Nonetheless, I am confident that the (intelligence community) and other elements of our government will continue to pursue all possible leads and provide an updated, evidence-based finding in line with the Presidents 90-day requirement, he said.

The US National Institutes of Health (NIH) previously funded bat coronavirus research in Wuhan, but has denied supporting gain of function experiments that involve modifying a virus so that it becomes more transmissible to humans.

The grant was terminated last year by the administration of former president Donald Trump.

The lab theory has been used by opposition Republicans to attack top US scientists, including the NIHs Anthony Fauci, and Beijing, which strongly denies the claims.

Biden said that in March he asked for a report on the origins of the virus, including whether it emerged from human contact with an infected animal or from a laboratory accident.

As of today, the US intelligence community has coalesced around two likely scenarios but has not reached a definitive conclusion on this question, he said.

White House deputy press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters Biden was informed by the intelligence community of their assessment about a month ago, but it was classified information until now.

Asked about the governments position on whether the virus was deliberately engineered to become a bioweapon, she said: We havent ruled out anything yet.

Lab theory gains traction

The lab leak theory has angered China, with foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian yesterday hitting out and accusing Washington of spreading conspiracy theories and disinformation.

Nevertheless, the idea is gaining increasing traction in the United States, where it was initially fueled by Trump and his aides and dismissed by many as a political talking point.

Citing a US intelligence report, The Wall Street Journal reported Sunday that a trio from the Wuhan Institute of Virology were hospitalized with a seasonal illness in November 2019, a month before Beijing disclosed the existence of a mysterious pneumonia outbreak.

The natural origin hypothesis holds that the virus emerged in bats then passed to humans, likely via an intermediary species.

This theory was widely accepted at the start of the pandemic, but as time has worn on, scientists have not found a virus in either bats or another animal that matches the genetic signature of SARS-CoV-2.

This wasnt the case for SARS and MERS, earlier coronaviruses that crossed to humans and were traced back to civets and camels relatively quickly.

The United States and other countries have called for a more in-depth probe into the pandemics origins, after a report by an international team sent by the World Health Organization to China earlier this year proved inconclusive.

And calls from independent scientists for more transparency are also growing.

We must take hypotheses about both natural and laboratory spillovers seriously until we have sufficient data, a group of researchers from top US universities wrote in a letter published by leading journal Science in mid-May.
Phuket Governor calls for COVID cooperation from foreigners

PHUKET: Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew has issued a formal request, written in English, calling for consuls and honorary consuls on the island to help urge all foreigners in Phuket to abide by COVID-19 prevention measures.

COVID-19Coronavirushealthcrime

By The Phuket News

Thursday 27 May 2021, 05:10PM

The letter, marked Urgent, is dated as issued today (May 27) and marked as issued by the Directing Division of the Phuket Governors office at Phuket Provincial Hall.

The letter (verbatim) in full reads:

Subject: Requesting for cooperation to prevent spreading of COVID-19 disease

Reference to the meeting between the Governor of Phuket and General Consuls and Honorary Consuls in Phuket dated on April 27, 2021 at Phuket Provincial Hall. Phuket province has received the reports that many foreigners who recently live in Phuket infected by the COVID-19 disease. This situation is considered a serious case which leads to sorrowfulness of the province.

Many cases of COVID-19 infections have derived from any party organizing, thus, Phuket province seeks cooperation from General Consuls and Honorary consuls in Phuket to monitor and inform or advice your own citizens avoiding to gather in large group to hold or involve in any types of parties which violate the Order of Phuket Province. Any persons who violate or fail to comply with Phuket regulations will be fined or receive a jail sentence, or both.

I hope that COVID-19 will be halted if our cooperation grows together. For more details, please feel free to contact my officials at the provincial phone number.

Sincerely Yours,

Narong Woonciew

The Governor of Phuket Province

The Phuket News notes that at the time this story was posted, the Phuket office of the Public Relations Department (PR Phuket) and the Official COVID-19 Information Center Phuket (now called the Phuket Info Centre), which is operated by the Phuket office of the Ministry of Interior, which is headed by Governor Narong, had yet to post the letter or repeat their call for foreigners to cooperate with COVID prevention measures. [Updated**]

Also of note, at the meeting with consuls and honorary consuls in Phuket on Apr 27, the message was plain that foreigners caught flagrantly ignoring COVID measures may face deportation.

According to the official timlines released by the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office (PPHO) showing details of movements of people confirmed as infected with COVID-19 in Phuket since Apr 3, 36 of the first 200 infections on the island were foreigners.

The timelines released reported as follows:

9 Italian woman, 36 - Apr 6

10 American man, 32 - Apr 8

13 Foreign man, 36 - Apr 8

21 Myanmar woman, 35 - Apr 9

22 Italian man, 52 - Apr 9

23 Myanmar man, 38 - Apr 9

29 English woman, 30 - Apr 9

33 Italian man, 36 - Apr 10

46 Foreign man, 33 - Apr 10

50 French man, 39 - Apr 10

53 Philippines man, 37 - Apr 10

58 English man, 29 - Apr 11

60 Brazilian man, 30, - Apr 11

65 american man, 24 - Apr 10

66 South African woman, 23 - Apr 11

73 Philippines man, 41 - Apr 13

83 Russian woman, 24 - Apr 9

88 Canadian man, 30 - Apr 12

96 Russian man, 31 - Apr 13

99 English man, 32 - Apr 13

103 Taiwanese woman, 44 - Apr 14

111 Italian man, 40 - Apr 14

113 Lithuanian man, 31 - Apr 14

114 Estonian woman, 31, - Apr 14

121 Italian woman, 37 - Apr 15

136 Philippines man, 34 - Apr 15

139 French man, 43 - Apr 15

141 Israeli man, 35 Apr 14

143 Myanmar woman, 38 - Apr 16

153 Russian man, 59 - Apr 16

159 Foreign man, 20 - Apr 16

186 Philippines man, 35 - Apr 17

187 Myanmar man, 40 - Apr 17

188 Myanmar woman, 42 - Apr 17

192 French man, 39 - Apr 19

198 Taiwanese man, 43 - Apr 17

(Timeline number, nationality and gender, age, date confirmed infected)

**UPDATE: The Official COVID-19 Information Center Phuket (now called the Phuket Info Centre) posted copies of the signed letters addressed to the Honorary Consuls in Phuket for the UK, Denmark, France, Germany, Nepal and Switzerland on its official Facebook page at 8:07pm Thursday night (May 27).
Phuket police chief confirms search for Deep South arrivals illegally entering Phuket

PHUKET: Phuket Provincial Police Commander Maj Gen Pornsak Nuannoo has issued a statement to counter reports of influential people from the three southern border provinces arriving in Phuket by road during the middle of the night  contravening the current COVID-19 restrictions on entering the province.

policeSafetycrimeCOVID-19health

By The Phuket News

Thursday 27 May 2021, 09:30AM

Phuket Provincial Police Commander Maj Gen Pornsak Nuannoo. Photo: PR Phuket

Under current COVID-19 restrictions, only goods delivery drivers, medical personnel and persons granted special permission are allowed to enter Phuket through the checkpoint at Tha Chatchai, the only road onto the island, between 11pm and 5am.

No other travellers are allowed through the checkpoint during those hours.

Maj Gen Pornsak Nuannoo in his statement recognised a news report of chartered vans carrying in total no less than 20 people entering Phuket through the checkpoint during the restricted hours.

The news report specifically said that the vans were carrying Muslim passengers and that they were coming to Phuket to arrive at a residential project that they had bought, Maj Gen Pornsak said.

Phuket people are probably worried that the vans secretly brought a rich Muslim from the southern border provinces into Phuket, Maj Gen Pornsal said in his statement, without clarifying why people would think that.

He said that officers had checked the CCTV footage of all vehicles that had recently entered the province during the restricted hours.

Out of concern for and for the confidence of the people of Phuket, we have checked the CCTV footage [at the checkpoint], he said, adding that all vehicles entering the province are recorded on CCTV.

After checking the footage recorded during the restricted hours on May 18-20, officers found one van, belonging to a foundation, entering Phuket, Maj Gen Pornsak said.

After checking the footage recorded during the restricted hours on May 21-24, officers only found one interprovincial passenger van entering the province, he added.

Phuket Communicable Disease Control officers issue all orders regarding quarantine, and all the information is available at the checkpoint and at the Sub-District Emergency Operations Center (E0C), which examines the preliminary list [for allowing people to enter Phuket]. There are still no suspected names of travelers from the three southernmost provinces, Maj Gen Pornsak said.

We were able to retrieve the information of the van entering Phuket by ordering the staff to perform a thorough inspection, and we will hasten the process for the truth to appear as soon as possible, he added.

However, thank you for all the clues. By screening people, even though [such people] can escape our sight, they cannot keep out of sight of technology, he said.

Phuket people are very much aware of this, he added.

Maj Gen Pornsak pointed out that the President of the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation -- currently Rewat Areerob, though Maj Gen Pornsak did not name him  had launched a project to improve the polices ability to conduct surveillance by CCTV.

This is to build confidence among people and tourists in measures to take care of the lives, property and safety of the people of Phuket Province, he said.
Taxis likely to switch to Grab

THAILAND: Fewer conventional taxis are expected to remain in service if the Transport Ministry has its way with its draft ministerial regulation allowing the use of private cars for ride-hailing taxi services via apps.

transport

By Bangkok Post

Thursday 27 May 2021, 11:00AM

Taxis are seen at Suvarnabhumi airport. Photo: Bangkok Post file.

Drivers or owners of conventional taxis carrying yellow number plates, which signify their status as public transport vehicles, are likely to switch to driving their own cars instead, according to Vithoon Naewpanich, president of the Thai Taxi Network Association.

His comment came after the cabinet this week approved a draft regulation allowing the use of private cars for ride-hailing taxi service via apps. The regulation would be a boon for GrabCar drivers who have provided the service without proper legal status for years.

Under the regulation, vehicles equipped with up to seven seats that are now registered as personal cars can double as taxis.

The Transport Ministry said the change is expected to be finalised in about a month from now.

Yesterday (May 26), Mr Vithoon cried foul over the move, saying it amounted to the government capitulating to pressure from illegal ride-hailing taxi services.

At the same time, yellow-plate taxis feel they are being punished for complying with the law. They registered legally and invested heavily to provide their service only to be put at risk of losing out to rivals, Mr Vithoon added.

There are about 80,000 yellow-plate taxis. Currently, only about 30,000 are in service because the COVID-19 pandemic has sapped demand.

Taxi drivers feel they are being bullied by the draft regulation, he said.

Even though he agreed with the deputy government spokeswoman, Traisuree Taisaranakul, that consumers will have greater choice, Mr Vithoon said the draft regulation spoke volumes about the governments inability to right a wrong. He said it chose instead to pander to those who failed to comply with the law.

He said if the regulation takes effect, many yellow-plate taxis will turn to driving ride-hailing taxis with black number plates for a living. By contrast, the yellow-plate taxis are subject to a rigorous registration process. Yellow-plate taxi drivers are not happy with the regulation but they cannot gather to protest due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Giving ride-hailing taxis legal status where they can freely pick up passengers will hurt the already dwindling income of the yellow-plate taxi drivers, Mr Vithoon added. These taxis also operate their own hailing app, which shows they try to keep up with innovation and improve their service, he added.

Under the regulation, drivers are required to obtain a public transport driving licence, pass a criminal background check by the Royal Thai Police and use taxi-hailing apps certified by the Transport Ministry.
New Roads, LA (70760)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. High 91F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 74F. Winds light and variable.
Army Materiel Commands Commander Gen. Ed Daly passes the Security Assistance Command flag to Brig. Gen. Garrick Harmon, officially transferring command of USASAC to Harmon from Brig. Gen. Doug Lowery, far right. USASAC Command Sgt. Major Sean Rice also participated in the May 17 ceremony held at the Army Materiel Command parade field.
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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 11:26:05|Editor: huaxia

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GENEVA, May 26 (Xinhua) -- A draft resolution on health conditions in the occupied Palestinian territory, including east Jerusalem, and in the occupied Syrian Golan Heights, was approved on Wednesday at the ongoing virtual World Health Assembly (WHA).

The resolution, with a significant majority of countries voting to support, was submitted by more than 20 countries and regions such as Turkey, Egypt, Iraq, Kuwait, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, and Syria according to the decision made last year in the WHA, the highest decision-making body of the World Health Organization (WHO).

A total of 83 votes were in favor for the resolution and 14 were against it, while 39 countries voted with abstention.

Suggestions involving the efforts of providing health support for the occupied Palestinian territory and the occupied Syrian Golan were presented in the resolution.

According to the resolution, efforts are requested to support the Palestinian health sector using a health system strengthening approach.

The resolution also suggests ensuring sustainable procurement of WHO prequalified vaccines, medicines and medical equipment to the occupied Palestinian territory in compliance with the international humanitarian law and the WHO's norms and standards, as well as ensuring non-discriminatory, affordable and equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines for the protected occupied population in compliance with the international law.

The international community has been concerned about the recent serious conflict between Palestine and Israel and the humanitarian crisis after the conflict, including health situation. 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.
Salem, MO (65560)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High around 90F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 68F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
"Trust in news has become a public health issue," said CJF Board Chair Kathy English. "With misinformation about vaccines readily available online, journalists provide trustworthy information that can inform life-saving decisions."
The town will have a scaled-back observance of Memorial Day due to pandemic restrictions.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 12:14:51|Editor: huaxia

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by Xinhua writers Che Xiaohui, Li Xiongying and Zhang Yisheng

GUANGZHOU, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Summer has returned to southern China, bringing with it abundant sunshine and rich rainfall, waking up the spirit of Chinese crocodile lizards in the Luokeng nature reserve in Shaoguan, Guangdong Province.

"After more than four months of hibernation, it is time for the rare reptile to mate and breed," said Liu Haiyang, a researcher who has been studying Chinese crocodile lizards for more than six years.

Endemic to southern China and Vietnam, the ancient reptile, as old as the dinosaur, mainly lives in subtropical forests near freshwater ponds and slow-moving streams. The lizard gets its name from its muscular body and tail that resemble that of a crocodile.

The semiaquatic creature spends most of its time in humid and cool places, said Liu, adding that the lizard prefers lush vegetation, especially trees with branches overhanging streams, that can provide shelter and protection.

The colorful species was listed as endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species and is under first-class national protection.

"The lizards are the last surviving species of their genus and family, which date back more than 100 million years, so they merit further protection to maintain biodiversity," said He Nan, a senior researcher in the nature reserve.

Luokeng nature reserve has established three stations with more than 60 personnel responsible for protecting the lizards' habitat.

Special zones have also been set up in the reserve to study its breeding and chip implant technology to raise its survival rate and success rate of reintroduction.

Scientists conducted a field survey in 2020 and found 121 Chinese crocodile lizards, and estimated that their total population in the area is around 770 to 887, an increase of more than 30 percent from 2012, according to Liu.

After decades of efforts put into the protection of the rare species since it was first found in this area by scientists in 2001, its wild population in China has risen to 1,200 from about 700, noted Liu, adding that the reserve has released 150 artificially bred Chinese crocodile lizards into the wild since 2009.

"The first batch of released reptiles are in good condition and have grown into adults. We've even found that they've reproduced, which is a good indication of the success of reintroduction," said He.

"We've shifted our focus from genetic rescue to maintaining its population as the number of Chinese crocodile lizards has been on an upward trend," said He. "The main purpose of artificial breeding has also changed from reintroduction to scientific research." Enditem
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden on Thursday warned naysayers in Congress not to get in the way of his big infrastructure plans as the White House panned a counteroffer from Republican senators to tap unused COVID-19 relief for a more modest investment in roads, highways and other traditional public works projects.

After touring a manufacturing technology center at a community college in Cleveland, Biden held up a card with the names of Republicans lawmakers who had rejected his coronavirus aid bill in Washington but later promoted its assistance when they were back home in front of voters. He warned them not to play similar games as he pushes this next legislative priority in Congress.

Im not going to embarrass anyone, but I have here a list," he said. If youre going to take credit for what weve done, he continued, dont get in the way of what we need to do.

The political arguments over Biden's ambitious proposals are quickly distilling into a debate over the size and scope of what all sides agree are sorely needed upgrades to the nation's aging and outmoded infrastructure.

As the president reaches for a soaring legislative achievement with his $1.7 trillion American Jobs Plan and a separate $1.8 trillion American Families Plan, he is assessing whether he can cut a bipartisan deal with Republicans or will have to push through his proposals with only Democratic votes.

Republican senators outlined a $928 billion infrastructure proposal Thursday as a counteroffer to Biden, drawing a fresh red line against his plans raise the corporate tax, from 21% to 28%, to pay for new spending. Instead, the Republicans want to shift unspent COVID-19 relief dollars to help cover the costs, a nonstarter for many Democrats.

The Republican senators said their offer, raised from an initial $568 billion, delivers on core infrastructure investments that Biden has focused on as areas of potential agreement. With about $250 billion in new spending, the GOP plan remains far from the presidents approach. Biden reduced his $2.3 trillion opening bid to $1.7 trillion in earlier negotiations.

Its a serious effort to try to reach a bipartisan agreement, said Sen. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia, the lead Republican negotiator.

As Biden left for Ohio, he said he called Capito to thank her for the proposal, but told her, We have to finish this really soon.

Biden toured Cuyahoga Community College, the same school where he was to hold a campaign rally in March 2020 only to have it be the first one canceled due to the pandemic. He cast his return as a symbol of how far the nation has come back, and he tried to make the case that passing his jobs and families plans would further the economy's recovery and prepare it for the decades ahead.

The president said he was not looking to punish anyone with his tax plans. But said it was time for Americas wealthy and corporations to help invest in the nations future.

Do you want to give the wealthiest people in America another tax cut? I dont begrudge them the money they make. Just start paying your fair share just a little bit, Biden said.

Talks are at a crossroads before a Memorial Day deadline to make progress toward a bipartisan deal. With slim majorities in the House and Senate, the Democratic president faces other hurdles if he decides to abandon talks with Republicans and tries to unite fractious Democrats.

The Republican offer would increase spending by $91 billion on roads and bridges, $48 billion on water resources and $25 billion on airports, according to a one-page summary released by the GOP negotiators. It would provide for one-time increases in broadband investments, at $65 billion, and $22 billion on rail.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said on CNBC that it was time for the administration to sober up and realize they dont have a massive mandate in Congress to do all of the things theyre trying to do.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Biden and Capito are expected to meet next week, while Congress is on a break.

The White House is also continuing to explore other proposals that we hope will emerge she said. A bipartisan group of lawmakers that includes Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, is also preparing an alternative plan.

Psaki made clear the administrations concern over tapping pandemic funds. We are worried that major cuts in COVID relief funds could imperil pending aid to small businesses, restaurants and rural hospitals using this money to get back on their feet after the crush of the pandemic, Psaki said in a statement.

Core differences remain between the White House and GOP negotiators over the definition of infrastructure: Republicans stick to traditional investments in roads, bridges, ports and water drinking systems, while Biden takes a more expansive view.

Under Biden's initial proposal, there is more than $300 billion for substantial upgrades to public schools, Veterans Administration hospitals and affordable housing, along with $25 billion for new and renovated child care centers.

Bidens proposal would spend heavily on efforts to confront climate change, with $174 billion to spur the electric vehicle market, in part by developing charging stations, and $50 billion so communities can better deal with floods, hurricanes, wildfires and other natural disasters.

One area of agreement is on boosting broadband, but the sides are apart on details. Republicans raised their initial offer to $65 billion in an earlier exchange; Biden is seeking $100 billion.

Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo., said the Republicans' overall proposal reflects what what people at home in Wyoming think of is infrastructure, roads with potholes.

The White House, still expressing public hopes for bipartisanship, welcomed the offer. At $928 billion over eight years, it features $257 billion in new money, more than the $225 billion the White House had said was in the initial Republican proposal. But still far less than the White House had hoped.

Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., said there is $700 billion in unspent COVID-19 aid from the American Rescue Plan, which was the administration's $1.9 trillion response to the coronavirus crisis earlier this year.

Toomey said some of that money could fill the gap between the amount of revenue normally collected from transportation taxes and fees, and the new spending the GOP senators are proposing.

But he said the Republican negotiators have made it very, very clear on every single time weve had a discussion is that were not raising taxes.
LONDON (AP)  Londons Science Museum and the Cambridge University library said Wednesday they have acquired a large collection of items belonging to late physicist Stephen Hawking, from his personalized wheelchairs to landmark papers on theoretical physics and his scripts from his appearance on The Simpsons.

The entire contents of Hawkings office at Cambridge  including his communications equipment, memorabilia, bets he made on scientific debates and office furniture  will be preserved as part of the collection belonging to the Science Museum Group.

Hawking occupied the office at the universitys department of applied mathematics and theoretical physics from 2002 until shortly before his death in 2018.

Highlights will go on display at the London museum early next year. Museum officials are also hoping to create a touring exhibition in the U.K. before setting up a permanent display in London.

Meanwhile, his vast archive of scientific and personal papers, including a first draft of his bestselling A Brief History of Time and his correspondence with leading scientists, will remain at Cambridge Universitys library.

The institutions acceptance of Hawkings archive and office meant that his estate settled 4.2 million pounds ($5.9 million) in inheritance tax.

This was done through a U.K. government plan which allows those who have such tax bills to pay by transferring important cultural, scientific or historic objects to the nation. Artefacts accepted under the plan are allocated to public collections and available for all.

Hawking studied for his PhD at Cambridge and later became the university's Lucasian Professor of Mathematics, the same post that Isaac Newton held from 1669 to 1702.

Cambridges acquisition of the 10,000-page archive means that Hawkings papers will join those of Newton and Charles Darwin at the university library, where they will soon be free for the public to access.

The archive allows us to step inside Stephens mind and to travel with him round the cosmos to, as he said, better understand our place in the universe, said Jessica Gardner, the universitys librarian.

This vast archive gives extraordinary insight into the evolution of Stephens scientific life, from childhood to research student, from disability activist to ground-breaking, world-renowned scientist, she added.

Diagnosed with motor neuron disease at 22 and given just a few years to live, Hawking survived for decades, dying in 2018 at 76. His work on the mysteries of space, time and black holes captured the imagination of millions, and his popular science books made him a celebrity beyond the preserves of academia. Hollywood celebrated his life in the 2014 biopic The Theory of Everything.

Hawkings children, Lucy, Tim and Robert, said they were pleased that their fathers work will be preserved for the public for generations to come.

My father would be so pleased and I think maybe at the same time, just a tiny bit overwhelmed that he was going to form part of the ... history of science, that he was going to be alongside the great scientists, the people whose work he really admired," Lucy Hawking said.
ST. LOUIS  Anyone referring to the Mississippi River as a lazy river would have been in for a shock Wednesday, at least in the Port of St. Louis.

Activity ranging from multi-million-dollar renovations of rail bridges, loading and unloading cargo off barges, steady streams of traffic across vehicular bridges and even a number of canoers in front of the Gateway Arch were visible as participants in an annual freight conference took a short cruise on one of the rivers sternwheel cruise boats.

I think this is awesome, said Bruce McLaughlin, a Highland resident representing the Leadership Council Southwestern Illinois.

Standing at the bow of the Tom Sawyer, McLaughlin assessed the underside of the Eads Bridge, the first bridge across the Mississippi in St. Louis, while the Martin Luther King Bridge, originally the Veterans Bridge, was coming up.

He said he appreciated the chance to see the industrial and other development on the riverfront.

Were here all the time, crossing it, and we dont even know whats here, McLaughlin added.

FreightWeekSTL is an annual meeting of transportation officials and industry leaders sponsored by St. Louis Regional Freightway, an arm of the Bi-State Development. Most of FreightWeekSTL has been virtual, but Wednesdays hour-long cruise on the Tom Sawyer was one of few in-person events.

For many participants it was also the first time they actually had seen each other in more than a year because of COVID-19.

Its basically an opportunity for networking and cooperation, said Mary Lamie, executive vice president-multi-modal enterprise for Bi-State Development, who leads St. Louis Regional Freightway. But, more importantly, for all these industry leaders to see all these freight assets, and youre able to see how commerce is moving in and out of the St. Louis region.

The region has in great part been defined by its relationship to rivers. But because of increased industrialization  especially in the area from Granite City to Cahokia, generally referred to as the Port of St. Louis area  limited access has left many people almost completely unaware of what is going on in and around the river, beyond what they see going across one of the many bridges in the area.

Wednesdays tour highlighted the bridges, terminals, docks and other infrastructure that makes the transportation and logistics industries so important to the St. Louis regions economy.

The tour was narrated by Susan Taylor, port director for St. Louis Development Corporation, and Rick Barbee, vice president of marketing for SCF Marine in St. Louis. They noted historical aspects of the riverfront to current operations, including the loading and unloading of grain and concrete products on either side of the river.

Its fantastic to see everybody getting some knowledge about the river system, about whats going on with St. Louis Regional Freightway, and to see all the multi-model transportation opportunities we have here in the St. Louis region, said Dennis Wilmsmeyer, executive director of Americas Central Port in Southwestern Madison County.

Multi-modal is how many officials described the connectivity of barge, rail, highway and air traffic in the Riverbend area to move cargo. It is one of the major reasons the St. Louis region is so important in transportation and logistics.

Historically, most early traffic was via the river. With the construction of the Eads Bridge  and later the McKinley and MacArthur bridges  rail became increasingly important. The interstate highway system and airport system have added to that, and Lamie and other officials touted the ability to move cargo from one mode of transportation to the other.

That also requires a lot of infrastructure investment, which is sometimes complicated because the Mississippi River is the border between two states. Several people noted the high level of regional cooperation needed to get projects off the ground and funded.

That is a tremendous indication of the level of regionalism in this area, Lamie said. Its really unique when you have two DOTs (departments of transportation) working together.

Wilmsmeyer noted a $25 million Build Grant last year that included projects in Americas Central Port in both Madison and Granite City, East St. Louis and St. Louis.

Its four locations in two states  three counties coming together to make this project happen, he said.

Other projects noted included more than $200 million in improvements to the Merchants Bridge between Madison and St. Louis, one of two operating rail bridges in the area, and large investments in the Interstate 270 corridor between Illinois 111 and Lindbergh Boulevard, including a new I-270 bridge.

To view video and learn more about FreightWeekSTL 2021, visit www.freightweekstl.com.
For the past 20 years, Ive worked as a home healthcare worker. Ive dedicated my life to serving those who need care so they can live in dignity with as much independence as possible.

Essential workers like me throughout our state show up to work every day to keep our economy running. Weve always kept Illinois safe, clean, fed, and cared for  even long before the pandemic hit.

Now, more than a year after we showed up and made enormous sacrifices to do our jobs at great personal risk, our legislators have an opportunity to prove that workers like me are essential by investing in our communities.

Over the course of my career as a home care worker and member of Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Healthcare Illinois, Ive cared for people from all walks of life. My clients are mothers, fathers, grandparents, daughters, and sons.

Im currently caring for a former truck driver who has Cerebral Palsy. Although he used to be self-sufficient, hes very dependent on me now to get through the day. I help him accomplish basic daily tasks like eating, sitting up, taking his medicine, and getting dressed. I schedule my work day around his needs. This means Im in and out of his house as needed for nearly nine hours a day.

But my work goes beyond ensuring my clients have their basic needs met. I hold people when they are sick, comfort them when they are lonely, and allow them to age with dignity and remain in their homessomething all of us would like for ourselves and our family members.

I love my job, but I can barely afford to do it. Although I have over 20 years of experience, I dont make enough to be able to save up. A car repair or an unexpected medical emergency could bankrupt me. Recently my client was in the hospital for nine days, which means I wasnt going to their home and earning a paycheck. And I dont have paid sick leave, so thats money out of my pocket if I ever need to miss work for my own health.

I am constantly having to rob Peter to pay Paul, calling utility companies to delay my bill so that I could afford to buy groceries.

For too long, our state has done the same thing with our state budget to disastrous ends. Theyve just taken money out of one critical program to make funding ends meet in another area, with no regard to the consequences. These services are called critical for a reason: working families depend on them.

But there is a solution if legislators are courageous enough to act. The Illinois legislature is just days away from voting on our states budget, and they have to choose between cutting critical services or closing tax loopholes that benefit large corporations and the ultra-wealthy.

Legislators can choose to support the proposals championed by the Raise Up Illinois Coalition that would close eight different tax loopholes. It is time to close the loopholes, to increase the revenue available to spend on the communities that need it most.

By closing loopholes the absolute richest Illinoisans and corporations in our state use to get out of paying their full tax bill, we can spend more money on housing, childcare, schools, and other essential services. We can properly strengthen and expand home care and other programs that take care of the vulnerable in our state. And strengthening the programs means taking care of workers like me so we can afford to stay in this important work without sacrificing our own financial security or health. It would be taxpayer money well spent.

This is about fairness. As we start to emerge from the largest pandemic of our lifetime that has claimed the lives of over 25,000 Illinoisans, and left countless others out of work, the need to invest in working people and the communities we live in has never been more apparent.

We need bold action to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and invest in the very workers that have shown up through it all. Its time for our state legislators to close the loopholes and start to build an Illinois economy that works for everyone.

Vanda Talkington is a home health care worker from Wood River. She is a member of SEIU Healthcare Illinois.
LAGOS, Nigeria (AP)  More than 100 people were missing and feared dead after a boat with more than 165 passengers, including women and children, broke up and sank as it was traveling in Nigerias northern Kebbi state, officials said Wednesday.

Twenty-two people had been rescued and five bodies recovered, including a baby less than a year old, Sani Dododo, chairman of the Kebbi State Emergency Management Agency, told The Associated Press.

We have two male and two female corpses, while the fifth is that of a baby that is less than one year old, he said, adding that the mother of the infant had not been identified.

Eleven rescue boats and divers were searching for about 138 missing passengers as anxiety grew among relatives of those missing.

One passenger rescued from the boat, Shehu Bello, told AP that five children were with him when the boat sank and all of them were still missing, making him incredibly worried.

Two of the children are mine, while the other three are the children of my brother, he said.

Shehu said the boat broke apart suddenly and then started to sink.

It was unclear what caused the boat to break up as it was traveling on the Niger River from Nigerias Niger state to the town of Wara in Kebbi state.

Boat accidents are common in Nigeria, especially along the Niger River, due to overloading, poor conditions of the boats and collisions with debris under water.
The local airport will aggressively pursue new flights, including service to Florida, as airlines recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, its director promised Thursday.

During a Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport board meeting, Executive Director Carl Beardsley Jr. responded to a question about expanding service from Cameron Snipes of Binghamton, New York. Snipes asked specifically about attracting Breeze Airlines, a new, low-cost carrier that completed its first flight Thursday  one between Tampa, Florida, and Charleston, South Carolina.

Beardsley said he and other administrators are highly motivated to attract new service, either from a new airline or American and United airlines, which already fly out of the airport.

Now the airlines, just like airports, are starting to shake the pandemic issues that really hammered their profitability in many markets. And because of that, its going to take some time, he said.

He said Breeze has focused so far on larger airports. In Pennsylvania, Breeze flies only to Pittsburgh International Airport from Charleston, Hartford, Connecticut, and Norfolk, Virginia, according to its flight list. The smallest airport they fly to is in Huntsville, Alabama, Beardsley said.

I wish I could tell you exactly when those those new flights are coming our way. But I can only say that we will be going after them aggressively, he said.

Reached afterward by telephone, Snipes, 33, a former Scranton resident who sells real estate in Florida, said he thinks Florida service would be popular.

I was very fascinated with Breeze Airlines, Snipes said. I have a good feeling.

The airport lost service to airports in Tampa and Orlando, Florida, in January 2018 when Allegiant Air pulled out to focus on larger markets. Allegiants local flights regularly flew better than 80% filled, but the airport has been unable to attract Florida service, despite Beardsleys efforts.

Last year, because of the pandemic, the airport lost Delta Air Lines as carriers scaled back service. Americans and Uniteds passenger departures from the airport rose sharply in March compared to the first two months, but only slightly in April.

Departures remain well below half that of pre-pandemic years. Beardsley reported 11,732 departures in April, up dramatically from 1,306 last year, but way off the 26,546 in April 2019, a record for that month.

Airport officials arent blaming Beardsley for the declines or the inability to attract the new service. The board awarded him a new three-year contract Thursday, effective July 1. The salary that day will rise to $130,520 with 2% raises the next two Julys. Under Beardsley, who began in the job in January 2015, the airport regularly broke monthly departure records before the pandemic.

I want to thank the board for your support, not only with this contract, but of course, every day of the week when were out here making the airport the best it can be, he said.

Board member David Pedri praised Beardsley profusely.

Ive seen the airport grow in my five years here on this board, and its your leadership through the pandemic, in very, very difficult circumstances, has been exemplary, Pedri said.

Afterward, board chairman Tim McGinley cq-Merlinsaid no one blames the airports recent struggles on Beardsley, who works hard to gain more flights.

The airlines were so messed up because of the pandemic, everybodys being super cautious about their next steps, he said.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 12:48:20|Editor: huaxia

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Workers transport anti-epidemic material supplies donated by the Chinese government at Wattay International Airport in Vientiane, Laos, May 10, 2021. (Xinhua/Zhang Jianhua)

BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has been calling for strengthened cooperation in the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic as well as concerted efforts to build a global community of health for all.

The following are some highlights of his recent remarks in this regard.





May 26, 2021

During a phone conversation with Montenegrin President Milo Djukanovic, Xi said that since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the two countries have been supporting each other, and carrying out sound cooperation in such fields as pandemic prevention and control as well as production resumption.

Montenegrin Health Minister Jelena Borovinic Bojovic and Chinese Ambassador to Montenegro Liu Jin attend the handover ceremony of China's Sinopharm vaccines in Podgorica, Montenegro, March 3, 2021. (Government of Montenegro/Handout via Xinhua)

China is willing to continue to provide as much assistance as its capacity allows for Montenegro's fight against the pandemic, and promote the building of a global community of health for all, Xi said.

In a telephone conversation with Nepali President Bidhya Devi Bhandari, Xi said that China will continue providing as much support as possible for Nepal's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, adding that he believes the Nepali people will surely win the final victory over the virus.





May 24, 2021

In a telephone conversation with Vietnamese President Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Xi said the two sides should carry on the good tradition of unity and mutual support, join hands to effectively handle and control the COVID-19 pandemic, and substantively protect the people's lives and health.

Photo taken on Sept. 5, 2020 shows students at the school opening ceremony in a school in the Vietnamese capital city of Hanoi. (VNA/Handout via Xinhua)

China, he said, stands ready to continue to provide as much assistance as its capacity allows for Vietnam's fight against the pandemic.

In a telephone conversation with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Xi noted that China and Iran, sticking together and helping each other, have joined hands to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and achieve positive results in bilateral practical cooperation.

China will continue to firmly support Iran in safeguarding national sovereignty and dignity, and is willing to provide as much assistance as possible for Iran's fight against the pandemic and help the Iranian people prevail over the virus, he said.





May 21, 2021

Xi delivered a speech at the Global Health Summit via video in Beijing.

"We must stick together and promote solidarity and cooperation. The pandemic is yet another reminder that we humanity rise and fall together with a shared future," Xi said.

"Confronted by a pandemic like COVID-19, we must champion the vision of building a global community of health for all, tide over this trying time through solidarity and cooperation, and firmly reject any attempt to politicize, label or stigmatize the virus," Xi added.

"Let us join hands and stand shoulder to shoulder with each other to firmly advance international cooperation against COVID-19, build a global community of health for all, and work for a healthier and brighter future for humanity," said the Chinese president. 
Can employers make COVID-19 vaccination mandatory?

Yes, with some exceptions.

Experts say U.S. employers can require employees to take safety measures, including vaccination. That doesnt necessarily mean you would get fired if you refuse, but you might need to sign a waiver or agree to work under specific conditions to limit any risk you might pose to yourself or others.

Employers generally have wide scope to make rules for the workplace, said Dorit Reiss, a law professor who specializes in vaccine policies at the University of California Hastings College of the Law. Its their business.

Rules will vary by country. But the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has allowed companies to mandate the flu and other vaccines, and has indicated they can require COVID-19 vaccines.

There are exceptions. For example, people can request exemptions for medical or religious reasons. Some states have proposed laws that restrict mandating the vaccines because of their emergency use" status, but that may become less of an issue since Pfizer has applied for full approval and others are likely to follow.

How employers approach the issue will vary. Many might not want to require vaccination because of the administrative burden of tracking compliance and managing exemption requests, noted Michelle S. Strowhiro, an employment adviser and lawyer at McDermott Will & Emery. Legal claims could also arise.

As a result, many employers will likely strongly encourage vaccination without making it mandatory, Strowhiro said.

Walmart, for example, is offering a $75 bonus for employees who provide proof they were vaccinated.
May 27, 1946

Koch-Conley Post inducts 2,500 members

Over 3,000 people were in attendance at a membership ceremony for the Koch-Conley Post No. 121, American Legion the evening of May 26.

The ceremony was conducted at the Masonic Temple due to the size of the new membership class.

Sixteen men and women were selected to represent the 2,500 new members in the ceremony where they recited the legion oath. The initiation ceremony was conducted by the degree team of the Lancaster Legion Post No. 34.

The ceremony brought the total membership of the Koch-Conley Post to 4,110. It was believed the post was the second largest in Pennsylvania.

Following the ceremony, those in attendance were entertained by a musical act from New York City.

Police searching for firebug in Scranton

State police and Scranton police were continuing their search for the person they believed was responsible for seven fires in Scranton.

The investigation was started with fires that caused damage to three South Scranton apartment buildings, and four fires of incendiary origins were discovered on May 25.

The fires on May 25 involved three parked cars in the citys Hill Section. They were all found to have flammables placed in the cars.

The fourth fire was discovered by a milkman who found the first-floor curtains of a home in the 400 block of Adams Avenue on fire.

At the movies

Kitty at the Strand, Sunbonnet Sue at the Comerford, Cornered at the Capitol, Leave Her to Heaven at the West Side, Road to Utopia at the Rialto, Ziegfeld Follies of 1946 at the Globe and The Virginian at the Roosevelt.
Editor: On Jan. 6 thousands of President Donald Trumps supporters converged on Washington, D.C., and some aimed to stop the certification of Joe Biden as the 46th president by the Congress.

During the ensuing riot several people died and many were injured. Thousands of dollars in damage was inflicted  rioters urinated and defecated on Capitol floors, walls and personal equipment of elected government officials. This was not a political statement. This was a riot.

Hundreds of people now face charges for their alleged treasonous behavior as a result. Meanwhile, Georgia Republican Rep. Andrew Clyde went on live television and denied that it ever happened. Clyde stated that he was one who stayed in the Capitol and on the House floor and with other Republican colleagues helped barricade the door until almost 3 p.m. from the mob who tried to enter. I can tell you the House floor was never breached and it was not an insurrection. He added, You know, if you didnt know the TV footage was a video from January the 6th, you would actually think it was a normal tourist visit.

In one breath he said he helped to barricade the door from the mob and in the next breath he described it as a Capitol tour. These words came out of the mouth of an elected congressman on national television.

Ignorance such as this reflects badly on the people of Georgia and any other state that has elected officials spout such balderdash. I doubt that there is anyone in our country who has not seen the live video of the Capitol insurrection that was taken by hundreds of people.

My question is: What kind of people do we send to Washington to legislate for our country?

JOE SKINNER

CLARKS SUMMIT

Editor: Our democracy is under threat.

Legislatures in several Republican-controlled states have passed bills that clearly suppress the vote and aim at further disenfranchising people of color, the elderly, the physically challenged and the poor. GOP-backed measures restrict voter access in Georgia, Montana, Arkansas and Florida. Texas and other GOP strongholds plan to do the same.

Pennsylvania legislators appear to be thinking along those same lines. Restricting absentee ballots, limiting early in-person voting, stricter identification requirements and other restrictions similar to Jim Crow-era measures are reflected in these bills.

This is all because President Trump lost his reelection bid. These attacks by the GOP are shameless attempts to rig future elections. Other democratic countries actually have laws to make it easier for their citizens to vote. We are headed in the opposite direction.

A further threat to our democracy occurred on Jan. 6. That violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol was no less than an attempt to overthrow the government. Its something like weve seen in foreign countries run by dictators. So much for the peaceful transition of power that was one of the hallmarks of our democracy. It used to set us apart from tyrannical governments in many foreign countries.

The GOP leadership continues to downplay the events that day. Trump said the insurrectionists were hugging and kissing the police. The images from that day paint a far different picture  especially the poor guard getting crushed by the door while trying to block the insurrectionists.

President Joe Biden won the election. This conclusion has been upheld in every state despite numerous audits, irrational claims of conspiracies and unsuccessful court challenges. Our voting system was shown to be resilient and accurate.

BRAD JONES

SCRANTON

Editor: The 175 House Republicans who voted against the formation of a nonpartisan Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection commission shoot enormous holes in their conspiracy theory that the riotous terrorists who stormed the Capitol were members of antifa.

If Republicans truly believed that the riot was caused by antifa and members of the extreme left, they would, without reservation, demand a transparent investigation.

They live in a make-believe world and their inaction on this matter speaks volumes about their inane, outrageous and dangerous political conspiracy theories.

KAREN STOEHR

STATE COLLEGE

Editor: The Biden administration, along with members of Congress, are on a spending craze that will continue annual deficits of more than $1 trillion.

The $1.9 trillion COVID-19 stimulus bill enacted in March and the previous COVID-19 stimulus bill in 2020 were necessary to combat the adverse impact of the pandemic.

The $2.2 trillion infrastructure program proposed by the administration is highly bloated with non-infrastructure elements. It should be restricted to repairing roads, replacing bridges and expanding broadband. This could reduce the infrastructure package cost to well below $1 trillion.

Bidens American Families Plan proposal of $1.8 trillion includes funds for child care, family and medical leave, universal pre-k and free community college. It should be postponed and looked at some time in the future.

As an aside, the current extra $300 per week in federal unemployment compensation should be discontinued by states. It keeps people from entering the workforce and significantly hurts companies and businesses that need employees.

The administrations spending spree has to be curtailed and it needs to effectively and efficiently prioritize and target spending.

DONALD MOSKOWITZ

LONDONDERRY,NEW HAMPSHIRE
London, KY (40741)

Today

Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 86F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Clear to partly cloudy. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable.
MARISSA BERGEL, Wheeler softball, senior: Bergel hit a two-out, two-run single in the seventh inning to lift Wheeler past Holy Cross, 9-7, in the Class S state tournament. The hit was part of a five-run rally in the inning.

JOEY GUARNIERI, Westerly track & field, senior: Guarnieri placed first in two sprints at the Southern Division championships. He won the 100 (11.19) and the 200 (22.73).

JOSH MOONEY, Stonington track & field, sophomore: Mooney placed first in the 110 hurdles at the Class M state meet in 14.65. He also finished second in the 300 hurdles (39.87) and second in the javelin (160-0).

MARGARET WEEDEN, Chariho track & field, junior: Weeden finished first in the high jump at the Southern Division championships. Weeden cleared 5-1 and also placed sixth in the triple jump at 31-5.

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Shares in Marks & Spencer have been staging an impressive recovery, having all but doubled in value in little over a year.

Does this herald a genuine new dawn for the retailer, which has been in a state of perpetual turnaround for the past 20 years, or just another false one?

The core problem for chairman Archie Norman and chief executive Steve Rowe is the one in the old joke about the Englishman in Connemara who asked a genial farmer the way to Letterfrack: you wouldn't start from here.

M&S is making stupendous efforts to pivot away from dowdy stores in the wrong places. It has invested heavily in tech in shops, including till-free shopping and automated click and collect

The food business has performed well and the joint venture with Ocado has got off to a roaring start.

But clothing remains in the doldrums, despite a valiant attempt to pivot online and towards leisure and casual togs.

Some of this is pandemic-related. M&S has traditionally been a destination for good value work and formal wear.

Having conducted numerous Zoom calls with senior executives in polo shirts, it is an open question to me whether anyone is going back into suits.

The retailer is taking a leaf out of Next's book and hosting brands online, including Finery and Nobody's Child.

This doesn't guarantee winning market share from the myriad of competition for the middle-aged fashionista's purse, nor does it address the bigger issue of how to make clothes shopping in stores more enjoyable.

M&S is making stupendous efforts to pivot away from dowdy stores in the wrong places. It has invested heavily in tech in shops, including till-free shopping for food and automated click and collect, where customers go to a kiosk, type in their name and receive their order in less than a minute.

Rowe has also launched a major initiative called MS2  let's hope any similarity to HS2 is purely coincidental  to make stores and online work better together, and to leverage the vast amounts of information it has on customers' habits and preferences.

Brexit has not helped M&S, which is taking a big hit on food exports in terms of tariffs and administrative costs.

These are likely to come to up to 47million in 2021-22, of which up to 33million relate to the island of Ireland, and they are not teething problems but likely to be a permanent extra expense. In the context of the retailer's current profits, these are a significant burden.

In an ideal world, M&S would probably be better off only selling food and lingerie. This is impractical: clothing and homewares are often in the same shops and cannot easily be hived off.

Disposing of stores in the current environment  with doubts over the future of the High Street  is not easy.

The overhaul of the store estate, with old ones closing and new ones opening up, will grind on. M&S recently promoted Katie Bickerstaffe and Stuart Machin to joint chief operating officers, setting tongues wagging about succession planning.

Steve Rowe is not ready to go yet, but will he succeed where his predecessors failed? Let's hope so.

The share rally is heartening, but as long-term holders like myself  I have a small stake  are all too aware, M&S is a long way from the 560p price of a few years ago (and peak over 700p in 2007).

I'd love to see M&S regain its place in the FTSE 100 and at the pinnacle of British retail, but I'm not sure I would put money on it.

Heeling touch

The Daily Mail has this week launched campaign to shine a light on the activities of private equity.

Some models of ownership are riskier than others but none are inherently good or bad: it comes down to the behaviour of those in charge.

Mutuality is often heralded as morally superior, yet who could forget the antics of Crystal Methodist Paul Flowers, chairman of the Co-operative Bank?

There are private equity successes that show how well it can work, done properly.

Kurt Geiger, the shoe chain, whose chief executive Neil Clifford we interview today, stands out as a contrast to the damaging private equity takeovers that have scarred our high streets.

The British Venture Capital Association argues that private equity has an important role in supporting the UK economy to build back better after Covid, and to meet the climate change challenges that we all face.

I agree.

But it will only fulfil that role if it roots out the sharp practice that has given buyout barons a bad name.

The best way to do that is for private equity firms to adopt the Daily Mail's manifesto for responsible investment.
Source: Xinhuanet| 2021-05-27 13:15:57|Editor: Xiaoxia

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Chixi village near Ningde in east China's Fujian Province is a great example of China's innovative tourism success.

Although it has natural advantages in an area of rich resources and as a fishing port, Ningde used to be one of 18 contiguous poverty-stricken areas in China.

This all changed as part of China's poverty alleviation efforts, in particular an innovative approach to tourism.

Du Jiazhu, Chixi village Party secretary, recalls the poor conditions which existed when he was younger.

"At that time the streets were in poor quality. When it rained they were wet with mud."

This all changed after the country and the province's successful poverty alleviation efforts.

According to local conditions, Chixi village developed rural tourism and tea industry. The local government also encouraged investment by tourism enterprises, providing jobs to the villagers.

For Chixi village, this meant taking advantage of the surroundings to encourage tourism.

China's innovative form of tourism gives full play to the local culture and natural advantages to develop the industry. There are two rivers in Chixi and here tourists can come to try fishing and enjoy the surroundings.

Tourists also appreciate learning about the local customs and culture in Chixi, such as net making and the local dress. This approach has led to positive economic outcomes.

"In the past, if you were industrious you could feed yourself, but now you have to be more innovative to live a better life," Du said.

In 2020, the income per capita was 30,127 yuan, according to Du.

"This is a good example of how the villagers have improved their lives," he said.

In addition to tourism, several large scale projects, including lithium battery, automobile and steel production, have been launched in Ningde, further boosting the local economy.
Havoc wreaked on British Lands estate of shops and offices by the coronavirus crisis has put it on the back foot.

The pandemic sent shopper numbers plunging and left offices empty as lockdown forced people to stay at home.

That resulted in a third annual loss in a row for British Land, whose empire includes the Meadowhall shopping centre in Sheffield and office blocks in the City of London.

Retail strife: Covid sent shopper numbers plunging resulting in a third annual loss in a row for British Land, whose empire includes Sheffield's Meadowhall shopping centre (pictured)

The company posted losses of 1.08billion in the year to March 31, slightly better than the 1.11billion in the previous year.

And the value of its property portfolio fell by 10.8 per cent  or 1.1billion  to 9.1billion. The firm warned the market was set to remain tough as rents continue to decline.

Chief executive Simon Carter said it had been an extraordinary year that had compounded existing challenges for retailers.

More than 1billion was wiped off British Lands stock market value yesterday, as the shares slid 3.7 per cent, or 19p, to 500.6p.

Stock Watch - Zotefoams Foam manufacturer Zotefoams had a strong start to the year, as demand for its padding products grew. The firm, whose customers include Unilever, Red Bull, BMW and Mercedes-Benz, makes materials used in everything from shoes and food packaging to aeroplane and car seats. While gyms were closed in the pandemic, Zotefoams noted that it had seen particularly strong sales of its materials for use in trainers. Sales of its specialist insulation products, used in cleanrooms such as laboratories, were also up. Shares rose 9.1 per cent, or 37p, to 442p.

The dividend was cut from 16p a share to 15p. But the landlord is trying to turn its fortunes around. It has sold about 1.2billion of property over the past year to boost its finances and fund new developments.

British Land has also spent some 200million on buying retail parks, which have become more popular during the pandemic.

And it is focusing on London office developments, as it believes high-quality buildings will still be wanted by top firms.

Even so, its results weighed on the FTSE 100, which ended the day down by 0.04 per cent, or 2.86 points, at 7026.93.

Energy company SSE also dipped, by 0.5 per cent, or 8p, to 1542p, after lockdowns pushed down demand for electricity and punched a 170million hole in its profits.

But chemicals firm Croda International, up 2.6 per cent, or 180p, to 7018p, and engineering firm Aveva, up 2.6 per cent, or 88p, to 3416p, were both propping up the blue-chip index after votes of confidence from analysts at Goldman Sachs and UBS respectively.

The FTSE 250 did rather better, up 0.9 per cent, or 201.18 points, at 22,640.08, despite a drag from drinks company C&C Group.

The firm, which owns brands including Tennents lager and Bulmers and Magners cider, is going cap-in-hand to investors for 151million.

It needs money to pay down debt and keep the business ticking over, after lockdowns hammered sales in pubs. Around 80 per cent of its turnover came from pubs and bars before the pandemic.

Revenue in the year to February 28 fell 56.1 per cent to 636.6million. It swung to an operating loss of 51.5million from a profit of 102.5million a year earlier.

Investors will have the chance to buy 23 new shares for every six they own, at 186p each. C&C fell by 11.4 per cent, or 34.6p, to 270p.

Mike Ashleys Frasers Group decided to put to bed speculation he would bid for Hugo Boss, after his investment company Mash Holdings built up a 5.1 per cent stake in the German fashion business.

The announcement was made after the market closed, but Frasers shares were already up 1.8 per cent, or 10p, to 580p after it said it had sold down its stake in online shopping firm Studio Retail Group.

Bus company Go-Ahead slipped 3.1 per cent, or 40p, to 1260p as chief executive David Brown, said he would step down at the end of the year, after a decade at the helm.

Auction Technology Group, which runs online sales of specialist items from machinery to antiques, soared 12.2 per cent, or 118p, to 1084p after unveiling its half-year results.

It only listed in February, and says its revenue jumped 431 per cent to 34.5million in the six months to March though its losses widened from 12.3million to 22.6million

IT company Softcat said Covid savings may begin to unravel when its staff can travel again.

Results for the year to July would be ahead of expectations. Shares climbed 6.9p per cent, or 125p, to 1929p.
Big oil has come under fire from the courts and investors as pressure mounts on them to go green.

In a major win for campaigners including Friends of the Earth, Shell lost a landmark court case in Holland when a judge ordered it to ramp up its plans to cut greenhouse gas emissions.

Revolution was also in the air in the US, where corporate titan Exxon Mobil's shareholders backed activists in their bid to reshape the company.

In a major win for campaigners including Friends of the Earth, Shell lost a court case in Holland when a judge ordered the company to ramp up plans to cut greenhouse gas emissions

Rival oil giant Chevron also faced a rebellion at its annual general meeting over climate change.

Danni Hewson, financial analyst at AJ Bell, said: 'Climate activists have power and they've figured out how to use it.

'Change can be painful but it is coming. Reaching the ambitious climate targets western governments have set requires big oil to be at the forefront of that change.'

With the oil industry in particular under pressure to clean up its act, Shell had set out plans to reduce emissions by 20 per cent within a decade and reach net zero by 2050.

But Milieudefensie, the Dutch wing of Friends of the Earth, called on the company to go faster, cutting carbon emissions by 45 per cent by 2030.

A lawsuit was filed in April 2019 on behalf of more than 17,000 Dutch citizens who claimed Shell was threatening human rights by investing billions in the production of fossil fuels.

The case was heard in The Hague, where Shell's headquarters are based. Yesterday, Judge Larisa Alwin backed the campaigners, and said that by 2030 Shell's net carbon emissions must be 45 per cent lower than 2019 levels.

The decision stunned investors, and Shell said it would appeal.

The judgement means Shell will have to ramp up current climate policies radically to hit the target and it is expected to sell more assets and cut back exploration.

Alwin said her decision would require 'a change of policy' from Shell that could 'curb the potential growth of the Shell group'.

The ruling shows how strong climate change activists have become and oil majors can no longer brush them aside. Donald Pols, director of Friends of the Earth Netherlands, said it was 'a monumental victory.'

While many countries have signed up to the Paris Agreement on climate change, companies are not part of the agreement and are not bound by national pledges.

The ruling could set a precedent and make oilers' climate change emissions plans legally binding.

Hours later, activist hedge fund Engine No.1 won a big victory over Exxon Mobil at the company's annual general meeting.

Shareholders elected two of Engine's four nominated directors to the board. Engine is trying to reshape the oiler to make it ramp up plans to combat climate change. Second-largest shareholder Blackrock was among those to back Engine nominees.

Separately, Chevron executives were clobbered as 61 per cent of investors voted for a proposal to reduce emissions from its customers.

US oil giants have been slow to change and while European oil companies have been selling off oil fields and cutting back on exploration, Exxon and Chevron have doubled down on oil.

But US President Joe Biden has said that this is the 'decisive decade' for climate change, and the US has pledged to cut carbon emissions by 50 to 52 per cent below 2005 levels by the year 2030.
Pets at Home has seen its annual retail revenues surpass 1billion for the first time, thanks to a pandemic boom in pet ownership.

The company said that because the coronavirus has forced more people to work from home and altered their leisure habits, this has removed an 'historical barrier' to many people adopting pets.

Pet ownership has grown by 8 per cent in the UK over the last year, resulting in the firm's store sales increasing by 8.8 per cent to 1.02billion and total revenues rising by 7.9 per cent to 1.14billion in the year to March 25.

Expansion: Pets at Home's revenues rose by 7.9 per cent to 1.14billion in the last fiscal year

Puppy and kitten-based products climbed by 37 per cent and 26 per cent, respectively, as Britons forked out more cash on toys, comforting blankets, dog coats and heated puppy beds.

But salon closures over the first ten weeks of the financial year, as well as other restrictions throughout the period, caused sales from grooming to plunge 29.2 per cent to 19.6million.

Membership at its Puppy and Kitten Club, whose members tend to spend about a third more than average, jumped 60.9 per cent, while VIP customer numbers grew 9 per cent to 6.2 million.

Chief executive Peter Pritchard said the Covid-19 crisis was 'a catalyst for change around customer purchasing behaviour and pet ownership', and the company responded by investing more in its loyalty clubs and subscription platforms.

'We ended this unprecedented year a far stronger pet care business. Despite challenges to how we were able to do business, we grew our market share across all channels, and our underlying growth trajectory accelerated,' he remarked.

'Our loyalty clubs saw record periods of new customer registration, strong growth in subscription customers increased the visibility and quality of our sales profile, whilst new clients across our veterinary estate helped increase practice profitability and cash flow.'

Cats and Dogs: Pets at Home chief executive Peter Pritchard said the Covid-19 crisis was 'a catalyst for change around customer purchasing behaviour and pet ownership'

Meanwhile, underlying pre-tax profits came in ahead of guidance, but fell by 6million to 87.5million as the group voluntary paid back 28.9million in business rates relief and was hit by around 30million in Covid-related costs.

Statutory profits still jumped by 30.5million to 116.4million though, as the group benefited from the sale of five specialist veterinary centres, which provide treatments for more difficult medical cases, to Linnaeus Group.

That divestment formed part of Pets at Home's plan to reorient the company towards offering more services within its stores, such as its First Opinion veterinary practices and grooming parlours, and online services like dog walking.

New friends: Pet ownership has grown by 8 per cent in the UK over the last year

It has also expanded its digital business to reflect the surge in remote healthcare services during the pandemic, buying up veterinary telehealth provider The Vet Connection in late November for 15million.

'Having pet healthcare, grooming and retail under one roof makes it a one-stop shop for pet owners, and this has been of great advantage when surviving through the pandemic,' noted Julie Palmer, a partner at business rescue firm Begbies Traynor.

The business is now eyeing a potential 600million in extra sales over the medium term from continuing to enlarge its market share and rising 'demand drivers' within the pet market, such as premiumisation and humanisation.

It stated that it plans to invest around 70million over the current financial year, pumping money into its store transformation programme, digital growth and a new national distribution site.

'As retail reopens, it will hope that the greater working from home flexibility means that people can continue to add pets to their lives and want them for companionship when at home,' Palmer added.

'It will also be hoping that the trend from before the pandemic of pampering pets with premium products will continue its upward trajectory.'

Shares in Pets at Home Group ended trading flat at 463.6p on Thursday.
Private equity has been swarming all over the London stock market and yesterday Equinti moved one step closer to being swallowed.

The little known outsourcing firm  it provides payment services for companies like Easyjet (up 1.1 per cent, or 11p, to 997.8p)  has agreed a 673million deal with New York-based Siris Capital. It was first approached in February.

The deal came as little surprise given that former private equity man Philip Yea chairs Equiniti.

Takeover target: Little known outsourcing firm Equinti has agreed a 673m deal with New York-based Siris Capital

Yea was head of the UK's most high profile private equity firm 3i from 2005 to 2009, although the company struggled under his tenure.

3i (down 0.2 per cent, or 3p, to 1229.5p) was founded in 1945 as the Industrial and Commercial Finance Corporation by the Bank of England to provide long-term investment funding for small and medium-sized enterprises after the war.

It currently owns discounter Action, the Netherlands-based discount chain, and is run by former investment banker Simon Borrows.

Stock Watch - Paypoint PayPoint has set aside 12.5million to cover the potential fallout of an Ofgem investigation into how it allegedly used its strong position in the market to exclude competitors. The firm said it had made the provision as a 'current best estimate' as it awaits a final decision from the energy regulator. Ofgem claimed in September that between 2009 and 2018, Paypoint had dominated the market for prepayment energy customers. Pre-tax profit for the 12 months to the end of March fell more than 61 per cent to 19.4million, in part due to the provisions set aside because of Ofgem. Shares fell 0.2 per cent, or 1p, to 588p.

After his stint at 3i, Yea was then briefly appointed senior business adviser to Prince Andrew.

Yea was appointed chair of Equiniti in July 2017 and yesterday said: 'The EQ board believes that the offer from Siris represents an attractive and certain value in cash today for EQ's shareholders, reflecting the strength of EQ's high quality business and its future prospects in a still uncertain environment.

'I believe that the proposal from Siris can provide support for EQ's future development through continuing investment in the people, technology and products so critical to our loyal clients.'

Shareholders will each receive 180p per share, which represents a 56 per cent premium on the closing price of 116p on February 8, when bid interest began. Shares in Equiniti were up 6.5 per cent, or 11p, at 179.4p.

On the FTSE 100, metals prices were dominating proceedings, sending the miners up the leaderboard, with Antofagasta top of the pile, up 4.9 per cent, or 74p, to 1579p.

Glencore gained 4.6 per cent, or 14.25p, to 321.75p after a report from investment bank Jefferies said the metals producer and trader is set to play a key role in the cobalt market over the coming years  a key component in making batteries for electric vehicles.

Cobalt is mostly produced in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where Glencore has a large mine.

Cobalt prices are expected to soar over the next decade as electric vehicles become the norm and Glencore is perfectly positioned to take advantage.

But struggling at the other end of the table was Johnson Matthey.

Johnson refines metals for car makers and the firm has become increasingly worried about the price of the new metals  like cobalt  that its customers are demanding as they move away from fuel towards electric.

Johnson warned the price hikes could hit its bottom line and shares were down 3.6per cent, or 112p, at 3038p.

Overall the FTSE 100 was little moved, falling just 0.1 per cent, or 7.26 points, to 7019.67.

On the FTSE 250  which crept up just under 0.1 per cent, or 18.96 points, to 22,659.04  Future was on the rise again, gaining 4.1 per cent, or 114p, at 2922p.

Just behind the specialist publisher was financial magazine seller Euromoney  up 3.6 per cent, or 36p, at 1050p.

The two companies publish specialist, niche information and have been tipped as possible takeover targets. Future's stable includes Country Life and Horse & Hound, while Euromoney publishes Metal Bulletin and Air Finance.

One broker said: 'This isn't stuff you can find on the BBC, people are still willing to pay a premium and they've become very attractive.'

North-west England water provider United Utilities reported a near doubling of its profit in its most recent financial year but shares still fell 1.2 per cent, or 11.8p, to 990.2p yesterday.
Tifton, GA (31794)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms during the morning becoming more widespread this afternoon. High 86F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms this evening becoming more widespread overnight. Low near 70F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
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Tillamook, OR (97141)

Today

Cloudy with rain developing this afternoon. High 68F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Cloudy with periods of rain. Low 58F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a half an inch.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 13:26:42|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping has called on the China Daily to present a true, multi-dimensional and panoramic view of China and make new contributions to the exchange and communication between China and the world.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in a congratulatory letter on the 40th anniversary of the newspaper's launch. Enditem
Carrollton, GA (30117)

Today

Sunshine and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 86F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Some passing clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 66F. Winds light and variable.
Cresaptown, MD (21502)

Today

Cloudy early with peeks of sunshine expected late. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 83F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 62F. Winds light and variable.
Dorothy Eleanor Mercer passed away on June 9, 2021 at Archbold Memorial Hospital. She was born on December 18, 1932, in Pavo to the late Early Byrd Wood and to the late Nellie Deen Wood. She was married to Eugene Mercer who precedes her in death. Survivors include her children, Leon David Mc
"Cars do not stop when the buses are stopped. Kids have been injured. This is all about enhancing student safety."

 Thomas DiBello, Spring-Ford School Board member

Pull Quote
In this April 8, 2008, photo, then Senate Armed Services Committee member Sen. John Warner, R-Va., listens to testimony on Capitol Hill in Washington. Warner, a former Navy secretary and one of the Senates most influential military experts, has died at 94.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 14:04:38|Editor: huaxia

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WASHINGTON, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Even though the U.S. government has been constantly pledging to crack down on rampaging gun violence, deadly shootings continue happening all across the United States, taking lives and shedding blood of people in the country.

The following are some of the deadly shootings in the United States so far this year:

SAN JOSE, California, May 26:

-- Nine people including the suspect were dead and at least one person was injured after a shooting at a Valley Transportation Authority yard north of downtown San Jose in the U.S. state of California, according to local authorities.

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio, May 23:

-- Three people were shot dead and five others injured at a bar in Youngstown city, the midwest U.S. state of Ohio, according to a CNN report, citing local police sources.

BRIDGETON, New Jersey, May 23:

-- At least 2 people were killed and 12 others injured in a house party shooting.

MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota, May 22:

-- Two people died and another eight were injured in a shooting incident in downtown Minneapolis, the U.S. state of Minnesota.

SAN LUIS OBISPO, California, May 10:

-- One policeman died and another was injured in a shooting incident in San Luis Obispo city in California, the city confirmed.

The suspected shooter was killed by police on the scene.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado, May 9:

-- Six adults were killed when a suspect opened fire at a birthday party in Colorado Springs, a city in U.S. state of Colorado, police said, adding the suspect took his own life on scene.

WATAUGA COUNTY, North Carolina, April 29:

-- Two deputies and three other people including a suspected gunman were shot dead after a lengthy standoff at a residence in southeastern U.S. state of North Carolina, authorities said.

SAN DIEGO, California, April 22:

-- A gunman, 32, opened fire at two spots in downtown San Diego. A 28-year-old man died at the scene. The three wounded were taken to hospitals and a fourth victim was treated and released at the scene, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported.

COLUMBUS, Ohio, April 20:

-- A black teenage girl was killed in a police shooting in Columbus, Ohio, shortly before a jury reached a guilty verdict in the murder trial of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin over the death of George Floyd.

NEW YORK CITY, New York, April 20:

-- One person was killed and two others were injured in a shooting at a suburban New York grocery store and investigators were searching for the shooter, local police said.

AUSTIN, Texas, April 18:

-- Three people were killed on the scene of an active shooting in Austin, capital of U.S. state of Texas, authorities said.

KENOSHA, Wisconsin, April 18:

-- Three people were killed and two others seriously injured in a shooting at a tavern in the city of Kenosha.

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana, April 15:

-- Eight people were killed and multiple people suffered gunshot wounds that required hospitalization after a shooting at a FedEx facility on the southwest side of Indianapolis, the capital of the U.S. Midwest state Indiana.

KNOXVILLE, Tennessee, April 12:

-- One person was shot dead and a police officer injured during a shooting at a high school in Knoxville, southern U.S. state of Tennessee, police said.

SALT LAKE COUNTY, Utah, April 10:

-- Two deputies were shot outside the Salt Lake County Sheriff Office in the U.S. state of Utah, while the shooter was killed on the spot, said local police.

BRYAN, Texas, April 8:

-- One person was killed and five others injured in a shooting, according to local police.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Virginia, April 4:

-- One person was killed and two others suffered life-threatening injuries in a triple shooting in Virginia Beach, local police said.

WILMINGTON, North Carolina, April 3:

-- Three people were killed and four others injured during a house party shooting in Wilmington in U.S. southeastern state of North Carolina, the Wilmington Police Department tweeted.

LOS ANGELES, California, March 31:

-- A shooting occurred in the city of Orange, 55 km southeast of Los Angeles downtown, leaving at least four people dead and two others injured, local NBC news channel reported.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Virginia, March 26:

-- Two people are dead and at least eight others were injured in shootings at Virginia Beach's oceanfront, in the eastern U.S. state of Virginia, local police said.

BOULDER, Colorado, March 22:

-- Ten people, including one police officer, were killed in a mass shooting at a supermarket in Boulder, Colorado, police said.

ATLANTA, Georgia, March 16:

-- Eight people were killed and another one was injured in three shooting incidents in the metropolitan area of Atlanta, Georgia.

CHICAGO, Illinois, March 14:

-- At least 15 people were shot, and two of them killed, in a "pop-up party" at a business on the South Side of Chicago.

HOUSTON, Texas, March 10:

-- Three people were shot to death and another person was injured during a shooting incident in southwest Houston, police said.

NEW ORLEANS, Louisiana, Feb. 20:

-- Three were killed, and two others injured in a shooting at a gun store in New Orleans, said local authorities.

LAS CRUCES, New Mexico, Feb. 4:

-- A police officer was shot dead, local police said, adding that the suspect was also dead.

MUSKOGEE, Oklahoma, Feb. 2:

-- Five children and an adult were killed in a shooting in Muskogee, local police said.

SUNRISE, Florida, Feb. 2:

-- The Federal Bureau of Investigation said that two of its agents were dead and three were wounded in a shooting.

APPLETON, Wisconsin, Jan. 31:

-- One person died and another one suffered minor injuries in a shooting that happened in a mall in northern Wisconsin, said local police.

TOLEDO, Ohio, Jan. 18:

-- A police officer was shot dead in an armed standoff in the Ohio city of Toledo, the local police department tweeted.

CHICAGO, Illinois, Jan. 10:

-- Four people were killed and two others were severely injured in a shooting rampage in the U.S. state of Illinois, NBC Chicago reported.

WINONA, Texas, Jan. 3:

-- One person was killed and another was wounded in a shooting at a church in U.S. state of Texas, local police said. Enditem
The Times News has teamed up with area clergy to share Words of Comfort daily in our print edition and online at TimesNews.Net. Any member of the clergy whod like to get involved can contact Carmen Musick at cmusick@timesnews.net.
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said on Wednesday a journalist pulled off a plane that was forced to land in Minsk had been plotting a rebellion, and he accused the West of waging a hybrid war against him.

In his first public remarks since a Belarusian warplane intercepted a Ryanair flight on Sunday between European Union members Greece and Lithuania, he showed no hint of backing down from confrontation with countries that accuse him of air piracy.

As we predicted, our ill-wishers from outside the country and from inside the country changed their methods of attack on the state, Lukashenko told parliament.

They have crossed many red lines and have abandoned common sense and human morals, he said, referring to a hybrid war without giving any details.

Belarus has been subject to EU and U.S. sanctions since Lukashenko cracked down on pro-democracy protests after a disputed election last year. But his decision to intercept an international airliner in Belarusian airspace and arrest a 26-year-old dissident journalist has brought vows of much more serious action.

In his speech to parliament, Lukashenko gave no details of the bloody rebellion he accused journalist Roman Protasevich of planning.

Protasevich, whose social media feed from exile had been one of the last remaining independent sources of news about Belarus, was shown on state TV on Monday confessing to organising demonstrations.

But Belarus opposition figures dismissed the confession, seeing the video as evidence Protasevich had been tortured, an allegation repeated by his mother, Natalia.

I simply plead with all the international community please, world, stand up and help, I beg you so much because they will kill him, she told Polish broadcaster TVN.

Late on Tuesday, state TV broadcast a similar confession video of Sophia Sapega, a 23-year-old student arrested with Protasevich.

Germany led condemnation of Belarus over the videotapes, which Lukashenkos opponents said were recorded under coercion.

We condemn in the strongest possible terms the Belarusian rulers practice of parading their prisoners in public with so-called confessions, German government spokesman Steffen Seibert said.

Belarus denies it mistreats detainees. Rights groups have documented what they say are hundreds of cases of abuse and forced confessions since last year.

FLIGHTS RE-ROUTED

Europes aviation regulator issued a bulletin on Wednesday urging all airlines to avoid Belarus airspace for safety reasons, saying the forced diversion of the Ryanair flight had put in question its ability to provide safe skies.

Western governments have told their airlines to re-route flights to avoid Belaruss airspace and have announced plans to ban Belarusian planes. The European Union says other unspecified sanctions are also in the works.

Credit rating agency S&P Global signalled it could downgrade Belarus credit rating if Western governments impose stronger economic sanctions.

Lukashenko said he would respond harshly to any sanctions. His prime minister said the country could ban some imports and restrict transit in response, without giving details.

Landlocked Belarus is located between its ally Russia and the EU, and some Russian oil and gas flows through it. Last year, it retaliated for sanctions by limiting some oil export traffic through a port in Lithuania.

In his remarks to parliament, Lukashenko, 66, said street protests were no longer possible in Belarus. Most known opposition figures are now in jail or exile.

In power since 1994, Lukashenko faced weeks of mass protests after he was declared the winner of a presidential election that his opponents said was rigged. The protests lost momentum after thousands of arrests in a police crackdown.

Exiled opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya said the opposition was now preparing a new phase of active protests.

Theres nothing more to wait for  we have to stop the terror once and for all, she said.

ATTEMPTS TO ISOLATE BELARUS

Western powers are seeking ways to increase the isolation of Lukashenko, who has previously shrugged off Western sanctions, which mostly consisted of placing officials on black lists. The West is wary of upsetting Moscow, which regards Belarus as a strategically important buffer.

U.S. President Joe Biden will discuss the incident with Russian President Vladimir Putin at a summit next month but the White House said it does not believe Moscow played any role in the incident.

Belarusian authorities on Tuesday released a transcript of a conversation between the Ryanair plane and an air traffic controller. In it, the controller tells the pilot of a bomb threat and advises him to land in Minsk. The pilot repeatedly questions the source of the information before agreeing to divert the plane.

The transcript, which Reuters could not independently verify, differed from excerpts released by Belarus state TV, which reported that the pilot had asked to land in Minsk, rather than that the controller advised him to do so.

The Ryanair plane remains in the Lithuanian capitals airport, where it flew after Minsk, while data is collected form it, the Lithuanian prosecutors office said.

SOURCE: REUTERS
French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday recognised his countrys role in the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, from backing a genocidal regime to ignoring warnings of the impending massacres.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday said only Rwandans could forgive France for its role in Rwandas 1994 genocide.On this path, only those who went through that night can perhaps forgive, give us the gift of forgiving, Macron said in a speech at the genocide memorial of Gisozi in Kigali, where more than 250,000 Tutsi are buried.France did not listen to those who warned it about the impending massacre in Rwanda and stood de facto by a genocidal regime, Macron said. But France was not an accomplice to the genocide, Macron added.

Macron kicked off a highly symbolic visit to Rwanda after three decades of diplomatic tensions, with a tour of the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where he paid tribute to some 800,000 mostly Tutsis who were slaughtered in the killings.

Standing here today, with humility and respect, by your side, I have come to recognise our responsibilities, Macron said in a speech at the Kigali Genocide Memorial.

His highly anticipated speech did not contain a formal apology, but he went further than his predecessors and said that only those who had survived the horrors can maybe forgive, give us the gift of forgiveness.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame hailed Macrons speech, speaking to reporters after the two leaders met.

His words were something more valuable than an apology. They were the truth, Kagame said.

Macron is the first French leader since 2010 to visit the East African nation, which has long accused France of complicity in the killings.

Macron said France was not complicit in the genocide.

But France has a role, a story and a political responsibility to Rwanda. She has a duty: to face history head-on and recognise the suffering she has inflicted on the Rwandan people by too long valuing silence over the examination of the truth.

Egide Nkuranga, president of the main survivors association Ibuka, told AFP he was disappointed that Macron did not present a clear apology on behalf of the French state or ask for forgiveness.

However he said Macron really tried to explain the genocide and Frances responsibility. It is very important. It shows that he understands us.

The French president is on a one-day leg to Kigali before flying to South Africa Friday for a visit devoted to the coronavirus pandemic and vaccine production.

 Form of blindness 

The genocide between April and July of 1994 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.

Within a few hours extremist Hutu militia began slaughtering Tutsis, and some moderate Hutus, with a scale and brutality that shocked the world.

Victims were felled with machetes, shot, or massacred while seeking shelter in churches and schools, while sexual violence was rife.

France, which provided political and military support to Kigali during a civil war preceding the genocide, has long been accused of turning a blind eye to the dangers posed by Hutu extremists in a country which had already seen several large scale massacres in its past.

In wanting to block a regional conflict or a civil war, (France) in fact continued to support a genocidal regime. By ignoring alerts from the most clear-headed observers, France assumed an overwhelming responsibility in a chain of events that resulted in the worst scenario, said Macron.

The question of Frances role and responsibility in the genocide has burned between the two nations for decades, leading to a complete diplomatic rupture between 2006 and 2009.

In 2010 Nicolas Sarkozy attempted to break the ice by admitting to serious mistakes and a form of blindness on the part of the French during the genocide.

His remarks fell short of expectations in Rwanda, and bilateral relations continued to fester.

 Two commissions 

However, ties have warmed under Macron, who has taken several steps to heal the wounds, including forming a commission led by historian Vincent Duclert into the role of France in the genocide.

The report accused Paris, which had close ties to the ethnic Hutu regime behind the massacres, of being blind to preparations for the genocide and said it bore serious and overwhelming responsibility.

The commission found no proof, however, of French complicity in the bloodshed.

A subsequent report commissioned by Kigali said the French government bears significant responsibility for enabling the genocide in Rwanda, yet refused to acknowledge its true role in the 1994 horror.

To cement their rapprochement, Macron is expected to use the visit to name an ambassador to Rwanda, filling a post left vacant since 2015.

While Rwanda is often hailed as a success story for the comparative stability and economic growth achieved in the decades since the genocide, Kagame regularly comes under fire from rights groups for crushing dissent.

Two of Rwandas highest-profile opposition leaders on Tuesday accused Macron of ignoring political repression and rights abuses in their country.

French President Emmanuel Macron does not hesitate publicly to bluntly castigate dictatorial regimes but keeps silent with regard to the authoritarian rule and human rights abuses by the Rwandan regime, critics Victoire Ingabire and Bernard Ntaganda said in a statement.

SOURCE: AFP
The following 2021 Memorial Day parades and ceremonies are scheduled:

Thursday, May 27

Cohoes: 6 p.m., parade starts at Cohoes High School and includes a wreath-laying ceremony at four memorial sites

Green Island: 6 p.m., parade starts at Albany Avenue

Schagticoke: 6 p.m. steps off at the Schaghticoke Fairgrounds and proceeds down Main Street

Schoharie: 6:30 p.m., parade starts near Bridge Street and ends on Fort Road

Saturday, May 29

East Greenbush: 10 a.m., parade will step off from the Bowling Alley and proceed towards the American Legion/Melvin Roads post adjacent to the old K-Mart, now the OFCS Training Facility.

Lake George: noon, parade will begin on Westbrook Road and travel down Canada Street

Sunday, May 30

Rensselaer: 1 p.m., ceremonies at the Doane Stuart School, intersection of Washington Avenue and Forbes Avenue; 2 p.m. parade will step off from the same intersection; closing ceremonies follow at Huyck Square

Monday, May 31

Albany: Parade cancelled; wreath-laying at 10 a.m. at Mater Christi Memorial Grove, 162 S. Lake Ave. and at 11 a.m. at the Vietnam Monument and at the Gold Star Families Monument in Lafayette Park, across from the Capitol

Castleton/Schodack motorcade: 10 a.m. from Maple Hill High School

Coxsackie: 1 p.m., parade starts at Appleblossom Lane

Halfmoon: 11 a.m., ceremony at Halfmoon American Legion, American Legion Post 1450s Tank, 275 Grooms Road

Hoosick Falls: 8 a.m. morning ceremony in the park and 10 a.m. parade step off at Main Street

Lake George: 10:30 a.m., ceremony at the grave of the Four Unknown Soldiers at Battlefield Park sponsored by Lake George Battlefield Alliance

Rotterdam: service at 2:30 p.m. at the Rotterdam Town Hall Monument, followed by an open house at the VFW Post 1895

Sand Lake: 10 a.m., parade starts at Averill Avenue in Westfall Village and proceeds to the Sand Lake Veterans Memorial Park on Route 43. Ceremonies at 10:30 p.m.

Schenectady: 10:30 a.m., ceremony sponsored by veterans organizations at Vale Cemetery, reception to follow Rotterdam Elks on Curry Road

Note: The Glens Falls Memorial Day Parade was cancelled.

- Compiled by Azra Haqqie
Hitting the road this holiday weekend?

If you're like the rest of us, it's been awhile  14 months, but who's counting  since many of us bought a plane ticket, stayed in a hotel, spent the day at an amusement park, or took the train.

While you'll remember some rules from the past, such as what not to pack in your carry-on luggage, other things have changed.

On Thursday, the Transportation Security Administration's Director for Upstate New York Bart Johnson was offering travelers tips on easing their way through security checkpoints.

Start with the TSA website, tsa.gov, which tells you what's OK in your carry-on luggage and what needs to be checked or left at home.

One recent traveler actually put his handgun in the bin at the checkpoint, realizing too late his faux pas. Leave the guns home, said Johnson.

The best thing when packing is to start with completely empty luggage. Remember that liquids need to be in containers no bigger than 3.4 ounces. The TSA's multi-page list is comprehensive  including such items as antlers (permitted) and Magic 8 Balls (checked luggage only).

Masks continue to be required on planes, trains and buses, as well as anywhere inside the airport terminal. Refuse to wear one and you will get a personal escort off airport property from the TSA. So far, he said everyone's obeyed the mask requirement.

Johnson advises passengers to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before their flight leaves. Plastic shields are everywhere at the checkpoint, and protocols have changed to eliminate touch points. IDs can be scanned and verified without handing them to the TSA officer.

Johnson also recommends applying for TSA Pre-Check, which includes a background check and costs $85 for five years. Details are at tsa.gov

Expect to find your flight crowded. Passenger traffic is rebounding quickly, and at Albany is 60 to 65 percent of pre-pandemic numbers. Flights are running more than 80 percent full, on average.

Amtrak, too, is seeing an increase in ridership. On Monday, the long-distance Lake Shore Limited will return to daily service to Boston, Chicago and New York City from Albany. Its schedule had been reduced to three days a week during the lockdown, when passenger numbers tumbled.

Amtrak is no longer limiting capacity, spokesman Jason Abrams said Thursday, but customers can still see how full their train is likely to be and opt for a less-crowded train. While there's no change fee, a fare difference might apply.

Passenger numbers are 40 percent of 2019's level, and advance bookings are running at 45 percent. Over the Memorial Day holiday, Amtrak is expecting passenger totals to be 65 percent of 2019 levels.

Car trips will remain popular this holiday weekend, but drivers will find gasoline prices at their highest level since 2014, said Patrick DeHaan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy.com. On Thursday, Albany prices averaged $3.02, after topping $3 a gallon on May 14.

Gasoline demand has recovered more quickly than production capacity, pushing prices higher. Prices will range from $2.75 to $3.25 a gallon this summer, peaking at mid-summer.

During the pandemic lockdown, many state borders were closed, and resorts depended on in-state traffic. New York residents made up 78 percent of Lake Placid's visitors in 2020, said James McKenna, up from the 60 percent range in a normal year. McKenna is CEO of ROOST, the Regional Office Of Sustainable Tourism, in Lake Placid.

Hotel prices are up from 2019 levels, although McKenna said there are plenty of deals to be had. Still, many are nearly sold out for Saturday and Sunday nights.

Lake George also is expecting a busy weekend, and if you're planning a visit to Six Flags Great Escape in Queensbury, you'll need to reserve a place. The park is open today through Memorial Day, and fully vaccinated visitors won't be required to wear a mask.

But you'll want to bring a sweater.

Meteorologist Tom Wasula at the National Weather Service in Albany said Friday will be the wettest part of the weekend, and while conditions will improve during the day on Saturday, temperatures will only make it into the mid-50s. Sunday will see a warm up, but Monday will be the best day, with mostly sunny skies and daytime highs in the 70s, Wasula said.

There's a slight chance of mixed precipitation in the northern Adirondacks, particularly at higher elevations, late Friday night, with the temperature falling to 34.

If you're driving this weekend, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Thursday that road and bridge construction will be suspended from 6 a.m. Friday to 6 a.m. Tuesday. In some cases, work may continue behind concrete barriers or for emergency repairs.
ALBANY  To U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, there is no such thing as having too many chip fabs in upstate New York.

Schumer, who has been pitching several companies already to build new computer chip factories in upstate New York as part of a $52 billion semiconductor manufacturing subsidy program called the CHIPS Act he is trying to push through Congress, added another company to the mix: Micron Technology.

Micron is based in Idaho and makes so-called memory chips that complement the central processing units powering computers and electronic devices.

So far, Schumer has sought to cajole several chip makers to consider building new factories in New York should the CHIPS Act pass, including Intel and GlobalFoundries, which employs 3,000 people at its Fab 8 chip factory in Malta. Samsung is also considering upstate New York as well after prodding from the New York senator.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo toured Micron's factory in Manassas, Va., earlier in the week along with Micron CEO Sanjay Mehrotra and other high-ranking federal officials as part of an effort by the Biden administration to promote the CHIPS Act. CHIPS is part of an effort by the U.S. government to shore up domestic chip production and research as China has increasingly grabbed market share and control of the supply chain.

Schumer said Thursday that Micron, the only U.S. memory chip manufacturer, is looking at building a new fab. Micron officials could not immediately be reached for comment.

Microns interest in exploring options to expand its footprint in the U.S. and potentially in upstate NY is exciting news for the entire state and country," Schumer said in a statement. "I made it clear to Micron that I strongly support locating a cutting-edge memory fab at one of the several shovel-ready sites across New York and reiterated that upstate NYs robust semiconductor industry makes it the perfect place for Micron to settle."

Virginia would likely also compete for another Micron fab, especially since it is more cost effective for companies to build multiple factories near one another due to supply chains and workforce.

The Luther Forest Technology Campus where GlobalFoundries is located has room for more factories, as do sites in Utica, Syracuse and one located between Rochester and Buffalo.

GlobalFoundries has been extremely supportive of Schumer's efforts to bring additional chip makers to upstate New York.

"Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is a true champion for the semiconductor industry," said Laurie Kelly, head of global communications for GlobalFoundries. "Micron is a national champion in the memory space, very much like we are a leader in the most pervasive, feature-rich chip foundry space, and we applaud Sen. Schumers efforts to support the New York ecosystem that weve built together over more than a decade."
The Hudson Valley and Catskills are known for the outdoors and beautiful mountains to hike. But each year, hikers suffer from fatal falls and injuries for a variety of reasons, including hiker inexperience, going off trail, and improper footwear or gear, especially for sudden changes in weather.

Across New York State in 2020, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation [DEC] Forest Rangers conducted 492 search and rescue missions, and over 20 percent of these occurred within the Hudson Valley and Catskill region.

These do not include what independent search and rescue teams have seen. Co-team leader of Catskills' Twin Cloves Technical Rescue Team, Stephen Tuomey, said they receive between 15 and 18 calls for Kaaterskill Falls alone each year, ranging from minor injuries to full body recoveries.

"Our biggest one is the Kaaterskill Falls area," said Tuomey. "The problem there is that people go and hike it because they read about it but they don't have the proper footwear  they're usually wearing sandals or flip flops. Or, they hike where their ability just doesn't allow them to."

When hiking, Tuomey suggests to "prepare for the worst," even if it is an easy or hard trail.

"Even if you're going out for a couple of hours, bring extra water, flashlights and overnight gear just in case," said Tuomey.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservations Hike Smart NY campaign recommends that hikers of all experience levels not only come prepared with proper attire and sturdy hiking boots, but carry other essentials like rain gear, lights, first aid supplies, extra food, water, sun and insect protection, and navigation tools.

DEC encourages visitors to all state-owned and managed lands, [like] Kaaterskill Falls, to be aware of the inherent risks and hazards associated with wilderness areas and to stay on marked trails, John Solan, New York State DEC Division of Forest Protection acting director, said by email.

Some of the areas most notable hikes do indeed require experience and arent for beginners. As the DEC cautions on its website, "be realistic about your fitness and skill level" by not overestimating your abilities or underestimating Mother Nature  particularly on these trails.

Sharan Singh / Getty Images

In early May, the body of a Yonkers man, Jesse Ritholz, was recovered from the waters of Kaaterskill Falls after the 36-year-old was reported missing. It wasnt the first time a hiker was found dead at this very popular hiking spot in the Catskills. In 2016, a Newburgh man died when he slipped on ice and moss at the top of the falls. The same year, a 60-year-old woman and a 17-year-old boy from New Jersey were killed after falling from the top of the upper falls.

Since 1988, nine people have died at the falls area, according to the DEC. Between the crowds hiking this trail and the steep cliffs and slippery rocks, caution and preparedness are necessities.

Starting in 2014, state officials began creating more accessible, safer routes to view the two-tiered falls and have closed a popular parking lot this year to encourage more people to use them. Over $1.25 million, primarily from Gov. Andrew Cuomos NY Works program, has been spent to improve the safety and visitor experience at the falls and surrounding areas. Improvements included a viewing platform, a 200-foot cable handrail rehabilitation of a one-half-mile section of the hike and more. Additionally, the park has increased forest ranger presence and works directly with the Green County Sheriffs office, state police and the Town of Hunter Police Department.

Melissa Rodriguez

Bash Bish Falls State Park, Berkshire County

Located on the border of New York and Massachusetts in the Taconic Mountains, Bash Bish Falls is a frequent destination for Hudson Valley residents and visitors. While the hike to the falls is straightforward, fatalities have occurred here mostly due to people rock climbing or jumping from the cliffs into the rocky, shallow waters below. More that 25 deaths have occurred at the falls in the past century  some due to drowning, but mostly due to rock climbing or jumping. In 2017, 21-year-old Aiden Campion-Pratt was pulled from the water days after he slipped to his death off of a rock. The pools at the based of the falls are shallow and while the signage says swimming is not allowed, it is often crowded with bathers.

Ashley Hoffman

Minnewaska State Park, Ulster County

In March of this year, a 24-year-old male hiker died in a 100-foot fall from a cliff at Minnewaska State Park on Castle Point Road on the Carriage Trail. No other deaths have been reported, but Minnewaska State Park does offer difficult trails like the 8.3-mile loop Sams Point Trail where you have to be mindful of terrain and your hydration. Nearby, at the Mohonk Preserve, which has a combined trail system to Minnewaska State Park, a Brooklyn man died on May 22 of this year after falling 20 feet and hitting his head. Initial investigations suggest that Evrim Cabuk, 31-years-old, was retrieving a piece of hiking equipment when he lost his footing and fell.

Portico Travel

Hasbrouck Park, Ulster County

In 2019, a 20-year-old SUNY New Paltz student fell 150 feet to her death off of a cliff at Hasbrouck Park in Kingston while hiking with a group of friends. The group was exploring the parks old cement caves and trails when they became lost and found themselves at the edge of the cliff. The conditions that night were muddy and rocky, making the recovery of the students body difficult and it was ultimately postponed until the following day.

Breakneck Ridge, Putnam County

This trail in the Hudson Highlands is known nationally for its steepness and difficulty. A New York City man fell to his death while hiking Breakneck Ridge in 2017. He was first reported missing after he never returned from his hike, and his body was spotted several days later by another hiker. Emergency response teams then navigated 30-feet down a cliff with "difficult terrain" to retrieve him. This particular hike is notable for its steep ascent to a summit of around 1,200 feet, and for several rock scrambles, which can challenge hikers of all experience levels. This one is definitely not for small kids and not ideal for most dogs.

Robert Jewell

Canajoharie Falls, Montgomery County

Just south of the Capital Region is the Canajoharie Creek, which has claimed several lives in the past. Between 2001 and 2004, three people died after jumping into the falls. In 2012, a Schenectady man lost his life on Memorial Day after he jumped into the pool at the bottom and didnt return. One theory as to why this area is so deadly is because of a stone ledge at the base of the waterfall that is not visible and can cause falls.

Devils Path, Greene County

While no deaths have been reported on this trail, it has been described as one of the toughest and most dangerous hiking trails in the Eastern United States. Experienced hikers can reach five summits out of the 35 Catskill High Peaks on this route, making it a highly sought-out trail.

The Devils Path is certainly one of the most technical and challenging traverses in the Catskills, said Ali Kralick, a Catskill 3500 member (earned by hiking the Catskills' highest peaks) who completed the traverse with her family last year. There are a few scrambling sections which require rock and root grabbing, and the constant elevation loss and gain as you climb up and over six mountains is a real workout.

Stanley Rusin, public information officer and member of Catskill Mountain Search and Rescue agrees.

"Take your time," said Rusin. "Not one part of Devil's Path doesn't have slippery rocks."

Kralick also warns not to underestimate the Burroughs Range traverse in the Catskills either, calling one section, the Cornell Crack, a Class 4 scramble that may be easier with a rope.

Willard Gideon

Plotter Kill Preserve, Schenectady County

A teen fell to her death in 2015 at Plotter Kill Preserve, making it the first fatality since 1993. However, ten others have fallen from the waterfalls or ravine walls in the past three decades and were rescued by the Plotterkill Fire Departments rope rescue team and survived.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 14:17:50|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations Security Council on Wednesday strongly condemned the detention of Mali's leadership by the military as the transitional president and prime minister resigned.

The council members called for the safe, immediate and unconditional release of all the officials detained and urged the defense and security forces elements to return to their barracks without delay, said the Security Council in a press statement.

They reaffirmed their support to the civilian-led transition in Mali and called for its immediate resumption, leading to elections and constitutional order within the established 18-month timeline.

The statement called on all Malian stakeholders to prioritize building trust, engage in dialogue and be willing to compromise to achieve these objectives. It affirmed that imposing a change of transitional leadership by force, including through forced resignations, is unacceptable.

Mali's transitional President Bah N'Daw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane were reportedly taken by force on Monday to the Kati military camp following the transitional president's announcement of his appointment of members of the government on the proposal of the prime minister.

The transitional president and prime minister have resigned, Baba Cisse, special adviser to Assimi Goita, Malian transitional vice president and president of the former National Committee for the Salvation of the People (CNSP), said on Wednesday.

They will be released from detention gradually, Cisse added.

He justified the arrest of N'Daw and Ouane by "deep differences both on the form and substance concerning the course of the transition."

The leadership's resignations came as a delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), led by former Nigerian President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, visited Mali to press the military to back down.

According to military sources, Jonathan met with Goita, who would have announced his decision to lead the transition from now on with a prime minister proposed by the Movement of June 5-Rassemblement des forces patriotiques du Mali (M5-RFP), a political force backing the large demonstration that eventually led to the mutiny last year.

Colonel Sadio Camara, former minister of defense and veterans affairs, Colonel Modibo Kone, former minister of security and civil protection, and influential members of the dissolved National Committee for the CNSP that overthrew then President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita were not in the new government, which was thought to be the main reason for the leadership's detentions, local media reported.

Observers say the resignation by the leaders of a transitional government could risk plunging the nation into further instability. Enditem
MADRID (AP)  The leader of the Western Sahara independence movement at the heart of a diplomatic spat between Spain and Morocco will appear before an investigating judge in Spain on June 1, representatives of the Polisario Front in the country said Wednesday.

Brahim Ghali heads the Polisario Front and the self-declared Sahrawi Democratic Arab Republic based in refugee camps in western Algeria. He has been recovering from COVID-19 in a Spanish hospital, where he checked in under a false identity after arriving in the country with an Algerian diplomatic passport.

His presence has irked Rabat, which annexed the Western Sahara in the 1970s, and has been tied to the sudden arrival of more than 8,000 migrants  many of them unaccompanied children  to a Spanish enclave in northern Africa that shares a border with Morocco.

The Moroccan government has said that it won't reinstate its ambassador to Madrid if Ghali leaves Spain with the same secrecy used for his arrival in mid-April and without answering for genocide allegations and other possible crimes that anti-Polisario groups accuse him of.

Spanish Foreign Minister Arancha Gonzalez Laya said that Ghali will leave Spain when his health allows.

Ghali will leave Spain when hes out of danger, when the reason for him being in our country is no longer valid  that is, a critical medical situation, she told reporters Wednesday.

She declined to comment on her contacts with Moroccan authorities, saying diplomacy requires discretion.

A Polisario official, who wasn't authorized to be named in media reports, said that Ghali would abide by a National Court summons to testify on June 1 in a show of trust of the Polisario Front in justice.

Investigating Judge Santiago Pedraz has rejected petitions by the plaintiffs, including an association of Sahrawi rights aligned with Moroccan interests, to have Ghali arrested. He is also giving Ghali the opportunity to testify via videoconference from Logrono, the northern city where the 71-year old has been hospitalized.

Ghali had declined to sign a court summons delivered to him in mid-May, according to a police affidavit seen by The Associated Press.
ALBANY  When the city's violence steals another life, grieving families often turn to the Rev. Avery Comithier.

The funeral for Shanita Thomas, 32, killed in a January shooting on Central Avenue, was held at Comithier's Elijah Missionary Church. The funeral for 18-year-old Chyna Forney, killed earlier this month, also happened there.

On Saturday, the church will host those mourning LaShon Turner, a 39-year-old shot and killed Friday near where Central meets Henry Johnson Boulevard.

And just a few days after, the funeral for 15-year-old Destiny Greene, who died Monday when men opened fire on a parked car in which she sat, will be held at the church in the city's South End.

Comithier knows well the senselessness of the violence gripping Albany, where there have been eight homicides already in this especially deadly year. He knows the pain  and the fury  of those whose loved ones have been stolen. He has seen it firsthand, again and again and again. And he wants it to end.

Walking a mother down the aisle of his church to a child in a casket is the most terrible walk in the world, Comithier said Wednesday. "It feels like forever," he added. "It's just painful."

Comithier is 70 and grew up in Ravena. A veteran of the Navy, he's been a pastor in Albany for more than 30 years. He lives in the rectory adjacent to the church.

The building, the former Our Lady Help of Christians Roman Catholic Church, was once home to the addiction-treatment services operated by Father Peter Young, the iconic priest who died in December. Comithier bought the building from the diocese almost two years ago and relocated his Pentacostal ministry there.

Comithier has since been working to make the building at 70-74 Second Ave., six blocks up the hill from South Pearl Street, into a community center  a place, he said, that people trust and see as a beacon of safety and calm. He wants it to be an oasis.

That the families of the murdered turn to Comithier suggests he is doing something right. Often, they aren't members of the church, he said. But they find their way to it, perhaps because they've heard it's a place that offers some small measure of solace.

Standing in the soaring nave, Comithier told me he treats the funerals of homicide victims the same as any other. The goal, he said, is always the same: Make the day as easy for the grieving as possible, lessening their burden and honoring their dignity.

"But my heart bleeds," Comithier said. "Sometimes I go to the Lord and I say, 'What else can I do?'"

It has been devastating week for Albany, the killings coming one after another. Two were left dead (and at least five others were wounded) in separate shootings Friday that took Turner and Sharf Addalim, a father of three shot on Quail Street as he returned from afternoon prayer at a nearby mosque.

Then, on Monday, Destiny Greene was killed by gunfire on Wilbur Street in the Mansion neighborhood, blocks from where New York's governor lives. Greene was a student at Shaker High School described as friendly, kind and unusually mature. She also attended Comithier's church, which is near her grandmother's home.

The pastor was called to Albany Memorial Hospital immediately after the shooting and waited for news with the teen's worried family. Comithier was there, he says, when a doctor arrived to deliver the worst words any parent could hear.

"When a doctor says that to a mother and a grandmother and a sister, that's a hard thing," he said. "I was blessed to be there, to be able to help and console them."

But the agony of that moment shows why the violence must stop, and so Comithier has a vision for a different Albany that he's trying to make real. It would be a city of stronger families, dedicated fathers and parents willing to discipline. He wants a city where life is respected, and an Albany that's like a village, where neighbors know and care about each other.

In Comitheir's vision, there is a shared sense of responsibility. If a terrible crime happened in one neighborhood, the entire city and region would feel it and want to do something. The pain would be mutual. The solutions would be shared.

"We've got to come together and get involved," he said. "Just because it didn't happen in your neighborhood doesn't mean it didn't happen."

In Comithier's Albany, there would be no lost men willing to fire guns. There would be fewer grieving mothers at the Elijah Missionary Church, and Destiny Greene would have gone to school on Tuesday.

But that isn't the Albany that exists, as Comithier well knows. He has funerals to plan.

cchurchill@timesunion.com  518-454-5442  @chris_churchill
ALBANY  An Albany City Court judge set bail at $1 on Thursday for a 21-year-old Troy man who was charged with murder for a fatal shooting on First Street last week that also left five others with gunshot wounds.

The defendant, Jhajuan Sabb, was not released on bail and remains in custody for a probation violation in an unrelated federal criminal case.

But prosecutors said they believe City Court Judge Joshua L. Farrell, as a local court judge, lacked authority to set bail in the case and misapplied new laws governing pre-trial detention that were part of sweeping criminal justice reforms passed in New York over the past two years.

Farrell set bail at $1 after Sabb's attorney said they were going to waive going forward with a preliminary hearing  which would have required prosecutors to present their evidence for charging him with fatally shooting 35-year-old Sharf Addalim. The case will next move to a county grand jury.

"We are searching right now to determine whether this can be appealed, and were still exploring those options," District Attorney David Soares said. "Luckily, theres a federal probation hold  but if they lift that probation hold, we have a person who is accused of murder walking the streets on a $1 bail."

Sabb's attorney, Assistant Public Defender Rebekah Sokol, said the judge's intention in setting bail "was trying to make sure his time counts. ... No matter what, hes not going anywhere."

A spokesman for the state Office of Court Administration said Farrell, who cannot comment on the case, set bail at $1 because the defendant has a federal probation violation keeping him in custody. The spokesman said the judge apparently believed that by setting bail  including at a nominal amount  it would enable Sabb to receive credit on the pending murder charge for any time he spends in custody on the federal probation violation.

But city court judges, as well as town and village justices, are not authorized to set bail for many high-level felony charges, including murder, or in cases in which a person charged with a felony has two prior felony convictions. In those instances, bail usually must be set by a Superior Court judge. Sabb's criminal history includes a 2017 arrest in Troy for felony charges of gang assault and assault with intent to cause serious physical injury with a weapon. He later pleaded guilty to a felony assault charge to settle that case.

A new provision in state Criminal Procedure Law allows a judge, who "would not or could not otherwise require bail or remand," to set bail for a defendant who requests that "the court set bail in a nominal amount." But the statute says that only applies in instances where a person is charged with low-level felonies or misdemeanor offenses.

Sabb is accused of opening fire on a group of people who were standing near First and Quail streets on the afternoon of May 21. Addalim was shot in the back and later pronounced dead at Albany Medical Center Hospital. Five others were struck in the hail of gunfire and treated for their injuries, which included wounds to their hands, feet, torsos or buttocks, police said.

Sabb is on federal probation after he was sentenced by a federal judge in U.S. District Court in February to eight months in jail  time he already served. In that case, he admitted using Facebook Live videos to threaten to attack Troy police. His threats included that he would throw bricks at the Troy police station and police cars during a large protest planned for June 7. He pleaded guilty in November to making an interstate transmission of a threat to injure another person.

Sabb was also sentenced by a federal judge to three years of supervised release  which he allegedly violated due to his arrest in the fatal shooting.

Albany has been beset by gun violence over the past several years and in 2020 saw a relatively high number of homicides  17  at a time when policing tactics are under intense scrutiny and many communities are seeking to transform how officers interact with the public. So far this year, there have been eight homicides in the city, including Monday night's shooting of 15-year-old Destiny Greene.
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP)  A collision between two light rail trains in Kuala Lumpur that injured more than 200 people was caused by a train driver's negligence, according to a preliminary investigation, Malaysia's transport minister said Tuesday.

A fully automated metro train carrying 213 passengers collided Monday night with a vacant train that was being driven manually in a tunnel near the Petronas Towers, the worlds tallest twin towers. It was the first major crash for the 23-year-old metro system.

Pictures on social media after the collision showed bloodied passengers, some lying on the floors of carriages strewn with shattered glass.

Transport Minister Wee Ka Siong said the driver of the vacant train was going the wrong way.

Preliminary investigations found that the accident was caused by the negligence and carelessness of the train driver ... who was driving in the wrong direction, he said.

He said 21 people remained hospitalized Tuesday, including six in critical condition and three requiring ventilator support. Others with minor injuries were discharged.

Wee earlier said one train was traveling at 20 kilometers (12 miles) per hour and the other at about 40 kilometers (25 miles) per hour when they crashed, throwing some passengers out of their seats.

Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin pledged a full investigation. Police earlier said they suspected a miscommunication from the trains operation control center.

The crash affected one of three light rail lines connecting Kuala Lumpur and surrounding suburbs. Prasarana Malaysia Berhad, a government-owned company that operates the metro system, said train service resumed Tuesday morning.

The metro system normally carries over 350,000 passengers a day, although ridership has been reduced to ensure social distancing during the coronavirus pandemic.

Afiq Luqman Mohamad Baharudin, 27, told the national Bernama news agency that many people were flung from their seats by the impact. He said the train had stopped for 15 minutes just before the crash.

We had only moved for a few seconds when the crash happened and the impact was so strong that I suffered injuries to my head, left leg and chest, he was quoted as saying.
TROY  Crews covered Second Street with mats of imitation cobblestone Thursday morning as horses and carriages arrived for the start of a day of filming for HBOs The Gilded Age.

Two blocks away Monument Square was disappearing under dirt being spread to transform the center of downtown into late 19th-century New York City.

The Hart Cluett Museum, The Castle and the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall were expected to be the sites of interior and exterior filming for the next few days. A large air-conditioning machine had been set up on State Street to cool off the inside of the the Music Hall.

The 10-part dramatic series created by Julian Fellowes is expected to debut in 2022, according to a spokeswoman for HBO. Filming in Troy began earlier this week.

While filming is scheduled this week on Second Street between Congress and State streets, Monument Square wont go before the camera until next week at the earliest. The crew and cast for The Gilded Age are expected to be in Troy for the next three weeks.

Crews placed the fake cobblestone mats on Second Street following a road map of sorts. Workers agreed it was like putting a jigsaw puzzle together. The faux stone didn't cover the entire street and were placed with camera angles in mind.

Monument Squares buildings have been decorated to recall New York City during the Gilded Age with signs, awnings and shop windows being installed. The dirt will cover the squares roads, which include River Street, Second Street and Broadway.

Fellowes is known for "Downton Abbey." "The Gilded Age" is set in New York City several decades before the action of "Downton Abbey," which opened with news of the sinking of the Titanic in 1912. The show portrayed the lives of British aristocrats through the late 1920s. There is expected to be a crossover between the two series. Christina Baranski, Cynthia Nixon, Carrie Coon, and Denee Benton are in the cast for the new show, according to HBO's synopsis.

Crews have been in the Washington Park vicinity shooting scenes in homes along Third Street while prepping exterior locations across the park on Second Street.

Thursday morning, there were teams covering up the signs identifying buildings such as the plaques on lawyers offices and the markers for the Hart Cluett Museum at 57 Second St.

A camera was to be set up in a museum hallway leading to Second Street to film out into the street from inside, according to staff.

Downtown Troy was feeling the impact of Monument Square and River Street being closed to traffic during the filming. Vehicles were backing up on Third Street.




Schenectady Police

SCHENECTADY - City detectives said Wednesday night they were investigating a possible abduction in the area.

Detectives said they received third-party information that a Cassandra Thompson, 26, is being held against her will. She is 5-foot-6 and weighs about 150 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes, lives in Troy, and may be with a man known only as Pops, police said in a statement Wednesday night.
WASHINGTON  U.S. intelligence agencies cannot pinpoint the origin of COVID-19, but the deadly virus likely emerged from natural contact between humans and infected animals or it could have come from a laboratory accident, the assistant director of National Intelligence for Strategic Communications said Thursday.

President Joe Biden said Wednesday that he had asked the U.S. intelligence agencies to redouble their efforts to collect and analyze information that could help deliver a "definitive conclusion" on the pandemic's origins and to report back to him in 90 days.

The Senate Wednesday also passed a bipartisan amendment that calls for an investigation by the U.S. and other allies into the genesis of COVID-19 if China continues to obstruct efforts to identify how and when the pandemic began. The amendment stated that the World Health Organization's previous report on the origin of the virus had ceded too much control over the investigation to the Chinese government and thus could be imbalanced and inadequate.

The amendment was introduced by U.S. sens. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., and Roger Marshall, R-Kansas.

"There must be a thorough and transparent investigation into the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic  obstruction is completely unacceptable," Gillibrand said. "Our amendment makes clear that the U.S. believes that the previous WHO investigation was flawed, that there must be accountability, and all potential origins of this virus, including a lab leak, must be investigated fully."

The amendment was added to the Endless Frontier Act, a bipartisan bill championed by Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, D-N.Y., which the Senate wrestled over passing this week. The bill was still under consideration Thursday afternoon.

The first cases of COVID-19 infected humans in Wuhan, China, in late 2019 and early 2020. The virus was widely believed to have stemmed from a wet market where animals were sold in that city. But there is also a laboratory, the Wuhan Institute of Virology, in the city that has received attention.

The theory that the coronavirus started in a scientific lab was widely discussed last year but dismissed by many scientists.

Now, one intelligence agency thinks a lab origination could be true, although it has low confidence in the idea, assistant director of National Intelligence for Strategic Communications Amanda Schoch said Thursday. That theory is also being driven by reports that three researchers in the Wuhan lab became ill in November 2019 with symptoms that are similar to those caused by COVID-19.

"While two elements of the [intelligence community] lean toward the former scenario [natural transmission] and one leans more toward the latter [laboratory accident]  each with low or moderate confidence  the majority of elements within the IC do not believe there is sufficient information to assess one to be more likely than the other," Schoch said.

President Donald J. Trump consistently blamed China for the spread of the virus throughout the pandemic.

"Now, everybody is agreeing that I was right when I very early on called Wuhan as the source of COVID-19," Trump said in a statement Thursday.

Republicans in Congress were quick to criticize China for its role in the start of the pandemic after the virus struck the U.S. in March, with Democrats sometimes opposing their efforts, concerned about discrimination against Asian Americans.

U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-Schuylerville, in March 2020 called for a U.S.-led investigation into China's handling on the coronavirus, a resolution she reintroduced with Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., this year. Their resolution also called for China to make restitution to other nations harmed by the virus.

"As the leader of the free world, President Joe Biden has the power to demand answers from the World Health Organization (WHO) as to why they promoted Chinese misinformation about the global COVID-19 pandemic that ultimately led to profound economic and human wreckage in hundreds of countries, including the loss of more than 400,000 American lives," Stefanik said in January.

Gillibrand said she "always had grave concerns about the origins of the COVID-19 virus."

"It also just belies common sense," Gillibrand added. "The virus began in Wuhun and there is a coronavirus research lab in Wuhan."
TROY  The widower of a woman who had poison in her system when she died in 2018 was arraigned Wednesday in Rensselaer County Court on an attempted second-degree murder charge for allegedly attacking a man with a hammer, according to the district attorney's office.

Duncan Maclean, 37, was indicted Friday by a county grand jury for allegedly beating the man in his home. The assault case was uncovered by the Rensselaer County Sheriffs Office as part of its investigation into the death of Megan Dyer-Maclean, whose body was found on an old railroad bed behind her home in Johnsonville, a hamlet in the town of Pittstown.

Investigators have scrutinized MacLean in his wife's death but have never charged him or identified him as a suspect. Dyer-Maclean, who was 31, died with rat poison in her system.

The sheriff's office said that detectives investigating Dyer-Maclean's death learned that Maclean attacked another man with a hammer in the year before her death.

Maclean was arrested last summer and charged with second-degree assault, attempted first-degree assault, weapons possession and a misdemeanor count of menacing. Judge Debra Young set bail at $50,000, which Maclean was expected to post.

I am pleased that the courts have reopened so we were able to present this case to a grand jury. We are one step closer to justice for his victim, said District Attorney Mary Pat Donnelly.

Though Maclean was arrested in July, the coronavirus pandemic delayed presentation of the case to a grand jury.

Detectives continue to investigate Dyer-Macleans death and have urged people with information to come forward. Her body was found June 4, 2018, on an old railroad bed behind her home.

Several people familiar with the investigation previously said the man Maclean is accused of attacking lived near the couple and had a romantic relationship with Dyer-Maclean. He left the area after her death and currently lives in Georgia.

Investigators conducted two toxicology tests of Dyer-Maclean. The second test was done at a cellular level, which was more complex and can take six to 12 months to get results, the official said. This second batch of tests confirmed strychnine was present in her system.

In the days after Dyer-Maclean's death, calls for justice were sounded in the community where she and her husband lived.

A message was spray painted along the road outside the Route 67 home the couple shared. "Justice For Megan" was scrawled across a car in orange and red paint.

Smaller, printed signs that read "#JUSTICEFORMEGAN" also were posted around the hamlet.
At the May Board of Regents meeting, the New York State Education Department announced that it is scrapping proposed substantial equivalency regulations, which would have helped improve secular education for tens of thousands of students.

NYSED had considered the regulations since 2019, and under the new timeline, the department wouldn't implement new regulations until 2022 at the earliest  the latest blow to victims of educational neglect.

Since 2012, YAFFED has advocated for better secular education in New Yorks ultra-Orthodox Jewish schools  specifically, those that teach little or no English, math, history, or science.

As the Hasidic population continues to grow, so does this issue. Already, Hasidic students make up 20.5 percent of the nonpublic school students in New York, with more than 90,000 students enrolled in Hasidic schools in 2018-2019. In Brooklyn, we project that by 2030, 23 to 37 percent of school-age children will be Hasidic.

This means every year, more students will miss out on a basic education. Many will finish their schooling with about the equivalent of a third- or fourth-grade education  robbing them of college and career opportunities.

The test scores of these schools reflect the poor quality of their education. In 2019, 127 Orthodox Jewish schools participated in the ELA and math exams for grades 3 through 8. For these schools , only 19.5 percent of students scored proficient in math, and only 19.7 percent scored proficient in ELA. The abysmal performance of Hasidic schools, many of which had zero percent proficiency, dragged down these averages. By comparison, in New Yorks public schools , 46.7 percent of students were proficient in math, and 45.4 percent were proficient in ELA.

Now is the time for action on this issue, but NYSED has once again punted, failing to support and protect these students.

Further delay has consequences. The longer we wait, the greater these educational gaps become. Students will never be able to make up the time, education and skills lost. The department must issue interim guidance for nonpublic schools until it reissues proposed regulations. It is time to stand up for the educational rights and opportunities of all students. Unlike NYSED, these students do not have the luxury of time.

Naftuli Moster is the founder and executive director of Young Advocates for Fair Education .
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 14:29:49|Editor: huaxia

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KABUL, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Afghan police have arrested 20 people with drug trafficking, distribution and sale charges within the past 24 hours, the country's Interior Ministry announced on Thursday.

"The Counter-Narcotics Police of Afghanistan (CNPA) carried several separate counter-narcotics operations in Kabul, Baghlan, Takhar, Balkh, Ghazni, Farah, Khost and Helmand provinces within the past 24 hours, arresting 20 suspects," the ministry said in a statement.

The CNPA also seized a considerable amount of heroin, methamphetamine, hashish, opium and some amount of cash from the suspects.

After initial investigations, the cases were handed over to a special Afghan court for the jurisdiction of drug cases, the statement said. Enditem
Alexander Lukashenko may hold the title of president of Belarus, but to much of the rest of the world right now he is little more than  take your pick  a state hijacker, state pirate or state terrorist.

The condemnation and ostracism are welcome, and overdue. The world community, including the United States, has for too long coddled or at least tolerated autocratic bullies with such official titles  thinking, perhaps, that theyll eventually see the error of their ways if theyre condemned, as the standard diplomatic phrasing goes, in the strongest possible terms.

Mr. Lukashenko faces a well-deserved international backlash after a Belarusian fighter jet on Sunday forced a commercial airliner bound from Greece to Lithuania to land in Minsk. On board was Roman Protasevich, an opposition journalist who was arrested and could face 12 years or more in prison.

Coincidence? Thats what Mr. Lukashenko would like the world to believe. He claims the plane was forced down because his government had gotten a bomb threat from Hamas, the Palestinian terrorist group, which denies it. It seems far more likely that Mr. Lukashenko saw an opportunity to capture a political adversary, and calculated that the benefit to him was greater than any scolding he might have to endure.

It turns out, though, that hes in for more than a scolding. The European Union has called for sanctions against Belarus, starting with banning its aircraft from flying in EU airspace or landing at member nations airports, and a suspension of European airline flights over Mr. Lukashenkos realm. Thats a potentially potent and isolating punishment for a land-locked nation.

But it will likely take more to persuade the autocrat to release Mr. Protasevich and his companion and make any other amends. This is, after all, a strongman who has held power for 27 years through what are considered to be unfair elections, and whose regime has been accused of beating, imprisoning, torturing and plotting the assassination of political opponents. He has stayed in office despite massive ongoing demonstrations and on-again, off-again visa sanctions on him and other Belarusian officials.

His behavior puts him in a small club of problematic leaders that includes Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose offenses range from electoral cyberattacks and poisoning his enemies abroad to invading Crimea; Saudi Arabias crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, accused of detaining and torturing human rights activists and ordering the killing and dismemberment of journalist Jamal Khashoggi; Chinese President Xi Jinping, on whose watch China has  among other human rights offenses  brutally oppressed millions of Uighurs, most of them Muslim; and the likes of North Koreas Kim Jong-un and the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte.

After four years of Donald Trumps cozying up to, expressing admiration for, or making excuses for some of these leaders, the Belarus situation offers a chance for President Joe Biden to restore some of the United States moral authority. Its encouraging that Mr. Biden says he is looking to join with the EU in a tangible economic response.

The worlds autocrats need more than a stern tsk-tsking. Some strong sanctions would likely better get their attention  the more personal, the better.
Nellie Grace Spragg, 78, of Hundred, WV died Thursday, June 10, 2021 at her residence. She was born October 9, 1942 at Hundred, a daughter of the late James Herbert Strope and Iva Haines Strope. Nellie worked many years ago at Oneacre Drug Store and the Bank of Hundred. She loved her animals
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The Merc in Titusville is now looking for a new tenant. The incubators first business, Dynamic Gear, announced they will be moving out into a new storefront in Hydetown.
A look at Ohioans facing charges in the US Capitol siege

More than 400 supporters of former President Donald Trump have been charged in the storming of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, including members of far-right extremist groups
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 14:40:37|Editor: huaxia

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NANJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- At 6:50 a.m., Liu Xiaochen unhurriedly boards a high-speed train for Shanghai, traveling more than 60 km to start his day of work in the metropolitan city in less than an hour.

"The high-speed trains are fast and on time, and I also do not need to worry about traffic congestion," said Liu, who lives in the city of Kunshan in Jiangsu Province that borders Shanghai.

For many people who live in the delta region, such a daily commute is common nowadays, thanks to the fast-paced regional integration of the Yangtze River Delta which encompasses Shanghai and the provinces of Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Anhui.

The delta region, roughly the size of Germany, is one of China's most economically active, open and innovative regions, contributing to about one-fourth of the national gross domestic product. As a national strategy, the integrated development of the delta region, also the country's largest city cluster, has been accelerating.

"The more efficient transport connectivity in the Yangtze River Delta has facilitated the flow of capital, talent, resources and technologies, making it easier for joint scientific research and better allocation of the industry chain," said Chen Wen, a researcher with the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

STRONGER CONNECTIONS

Improved connectivity within the Yangtze River Delta, like the mushrooming high-speed railways and densely constructed expressways, has made the 358,000-square-km expanse one of the most populated and urbanized city clusters in China.

With the construction of 11 new railway projects kicking off this year, the delta region is expected to have 17,000 km of rail lines in service by 2025, including 9,500 km of high-speed railway, according to the China Railway Shanghai Group Co., Ltd.

"My wife and I live in Jiangsu's Taicang, but our daughter has settled down in Shanghai. The absence of shortcuts used to be a nuisance for family reunions," said Wu Qiping, a villager at Taicang's Ludu village, which borders Shanghai's Jiading District but was split by a river.

In June 2020, a 1.8-km-long highway with a bridge was built to directly link the village with Jiading District, shortening the travel time between the two places from over half an hour to a minimum of three minutes.

"The new road offers great convenience to around 7,000 villagers like Lu, as they can visit relatives, pursue jobs and go shopping in Shanghai more easily," said Li Ye, Party chief of Ludu village.

The convenience came after authorities in the region moved to build new roads to link the dead-end inter-provincial highways to accelerate regional integration.

The power networks in the region are also accelerating integration. Construction of a 385-meter-tall power transmission tower is underway in Jiangsu's Jiangyin City, which is part of a 500-kV power transmission project that will cross the Yangtze River to supply clean energy to the more developed cities of the delta region.

"The southern part of Jiangsu consumes two-thirds of the energy of the province yet lacks power resources, but the northern part is abundant in renewable energy resources," said Wang Weiyuan, a staff worker from State Grid's Jiangsu branch.

"The project will help better connect the power networks in the Yangtze River Delta region, helping achieve energy sharing among cities and effectively promoting power integration in the region," Wang added.

INDUSTRIAL SYNERGY

At the national-level pilot zone of Internet of Vehicles (IoV) in Jiangsu's Wuxi City, scenes of self-adjusted traffic lights to reduce congestion and unmanned car parking are giving a glimpse of the future smart traffic industry.

As a highland of the Internet of Things (IoT) industry in China, Wuxi is home to more than 3,000 IoT companies, and the city is working with its neighbors throughout the industrial chain.

"IoV is an emerging industry, injecting new impetus to the high-quality development of the Yangtze River Delta, and the regional integration also provides it huge opportunities," said Zhen Hongbo, general manager of Shennan (Wuxi) Internet of Vehicles Co., Ltd.

"Most of our partners are in the Yangtze River Delta, and closer connections can help improve the industrial chain as well as the industry's technical standards," Zhen added.

In recent years, the Yangtze River Delta has been the pacesetter in many cutting-edge industries. The localities have joined hands to promote the development of the digital economy, as more than 180,000 5G base stations have been built to support innovation projects.

At a high-level forum on the region's integrated development held in Wuxi on Thursday, authorities launched four regional industry chain alliances for the sectors of integrated circuit, biomedicine, new energy vehicles (NEVs) and artificial intelligence.

The Yangtze River Delta Biomedical Industry Chain Alliance was based in the city of Suzhou, Jiangsu, focusing on integrating the resources of enterprises, public platforms, universities and research institutions to promote the delta region into an innovation base for the biomedical industry.

The region, home to the factories of Tesla and NIO, is an important production base for NEVs. In the first quarter of this year, the output of NEVs in Shanghai and Anhui skyrocketed by 380 percent and 358 percent year on year, respectively.

Regional pilot projects are also playing an important role in achieving China's goals of carbon emission peak and carbon neutrality. A zero-carbon technology industrial park was inaugurated in Wuxi last week, aiming to introduce 1,000 relevant tech firms by 2025.

All members of the Yangtze River Delta will maintain multi-level and regular interactions to provide greater support for the national development and build a world-class city cluster, said Lou Qinjian, Party chief of Jiangsu. Enditem
A defense lawyer for a New Mexico man accused of threatening to kill President Joe Biden says texts the man sent were taken out of context and were simply political expression.
[May 27, 2021] The Acacia Group Announces the Divestiture of Highmetric's ServiceNow Division to Gryphon Investors

WASHINGTON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ --  The Acacia Group ("Acacia"), values-driven operational investors in technology and services business, today announced that Gryphon Investors has acquired the ServiceNow division of their portfolio company, Highmetric. Acacia retains a minority investment in the company as part of the transaction. Since the Highmetric brand goes with the Gryphon acquisition, the remaining company has rebranded as MajorKey Technologies. Acacia will continue to build MajorKey as a market leader amongst its investments in technology product and services companies delivering cloud-enabled digital transformation for commercial and government clients. The Acacia Group announced that Gryphon Investors acquired the ServiceNow division of its portfolio company, Highmetric. Acacia first acquired The Column Group in May 2019 and completed two bolt-on acquisitions before unifying the company under the Highmetric brand earlier this year. Over that time, the company's ServiceNow division ontinued to grow rapidly consolidating its position as one of the world's leading ServiceNow Elite Partners. In March, Highmetric was recognized by ServiceNow as the 2021 Americas Customer Workflow Partner of the Year.



"As a result of Highmetric's exceptional reputation, we received several unsolicited approaches to acquire its ServiceNow practice," said Acacia Group partner Craig Dawson. "Gryphon demonstrated that they have both the vision and resources to build a truly global ServiceNow business. We wish them every success in their new endeavor." Operating as MajorKey Technologies, the remaining business brings together over 420 technical, sales and delivery specialists focused on helping public and private sector clients unlock the benefits of cloud-enabled digital transformation. Their solutions architecture, software development and managed services expertise encompasses a range of capabilities, including Enterprise Service Management, Cloud Operations, Identity and Access Management, and DevSecOps.

The Acacia Group is working with the MajorKey management team on ambitious plans to grow the company's existing core practices as well as investing in new technologies and capabilities. The plans include: Extending the reach of MajorKey's flexible onshore/nearshore delivery offering;

Growing the company's technical and consulting teams;

Adding new technical capabilities and talent through further acquisitions. The company's ultimate mission is to enable clients to respond to the needs of their customers as one cohesive, agile unit across their entire enterprise, aligning people with process, and process with technology. MajorKey is one of Acacia's focused investments in companies developing and delivering products, professional and managed services to enterprise clients and government agencies, with an emphasis on cloud-enabled digital transformation. Acacia's other investments include Applied Insight and ID Technologies, both focused on the U.S. federal technology sector and recognized for their award-winning cloud and endpoint security product innovations. Together, these Acacia-backed companies are enabling thousands of government and commercial users to collaborate securely in delivering high quality services to their customers and the nation. Jefferies LLC acted as the exclusive financial advisor, and Miles and Stockbridge P.C. served as legal counsel to Highmetric on this transaction. About The Acacia Group

The Acacia Group is a values-driven private equity partnership. We are experienced operational investors in technology and services companies. We collaborate with owners who have reached the limits of what they can achieve without significant investment in people, capability and scale. We build the conditions for long-term, sustainable success, creating new possibilities for businesses to deliver lasting value for all their stakeholders. Our approach focuses on advancing capability through R&D and acquisition, and prioritizing the needs of employees, customers and partners. For more information, please visit acaciagroup.com. Media Contact:

Sarah Broome

B Squared on behalf of The Acacia Group

Tel: +714-469-9237

Email: sarah@bsquaredllc.net View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-acacia-group-announces-the-divestiture-of-highmetrics-servicenow-division-to-gryphon-investors-301300513.html SOURCE Acacia Group

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[May 27, 2021] Airspace Link Completes a $10 Million Series A Round Led by Altos Ventures

DETROIT, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Airspace Link, Inc., the leading North American provider of solutions designed to help the FAA, state and local government agencies better plan for and manage the safe integration of drones into their communities, today announced it completed a $10 million series A capital raise with Altos Ventures. Founded in 1996, Altos Ventures is an early-stage investor based in the Bay Area with a global investment focus in consumer and enterprise companies. Altos currently manages more than $10 billion in regulatory assets under management across 100+ companies. "Airspace Link acts like the Google Maps (Waze) for drones, but the roads, rules and regulations are not in place yet" "We're excited to partner with the Airspace Link team to help them build the digital infrastructure for safe drone flights domestically and around the globe," said Dillon Krasnigor from Altos Ventures. "We were impressed with the Airspace team's deep domain expertise and their vision of how unmanned drones will be used over the next decade and beyond. We believe the company will be a key player in making mass unmanned drone flights a reality." Also completing the series A raise alongside Altos Ventures is Thales, leading provider of air traffic management systems which manage 40% of the world's airspace, and a global technology leader with operations in more than 68 countries. Thales generated 18.5 billion (EUR) in revenues in 2020 and is the eighth largest defense contractor in the world. "As Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) usage continues to grow, for safe, low altitude operations around communities, airspace management must combine both air and ground insights," said Todd Donovan, Thales Vice President, Airspace Mobility Solutions Americas. "Our deep knowledge of airspace management and Airspace Link's expertise in geospatial intelligence are the perfect combination to address this complex challenge." Before this 2021 raise, Airspace Link secured investments from previous Investors, Indicator Ventures, 2048 Ventures, Ludlow Ventures, Matchstick Ventures, Techstars and Dan Gilbert's Detroit Venture Partners (DVP).



"Airspace Link acts like the Google Maps (Waze) for drones, but the roads, rules and regulations are not in place yet," CEO Michael Healander said. Airspace Link's FAA-approved Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability platform is a transportation planning tool for integrating drones into the national airspace and our communities. The platform is being used by state and local government transportation groups to prepare, plan, build, manage and engage the drone community. Earlier this month, Airspace Link took part in the first multi-modal transport demonstration in Ohio using ground and air autonomous vehicles. The mission which was led by VyrtX, a logistics software provider, and JobsOhio, entailed the delivery of blood tubes, vessels and tissues using a small Unmanned Aircraft System meeting up with a larger autonomous helicopter at KOSU airport, which transported the first 3-D printed kidney on a perfusion device to KMRT airport in Marysville, Ohio. Airspace Link's AirHub solution offered the digital infrastructure to ensure safety of the operation by facilitating the authorization for the on-airport portion of the UAS operation and to compute the safest route for the longer leg of the transport to KMRT. Airspace Link's digital infrastructure solutions are being incorporated into other advanced UAS systems across the U.S., designed to enable the UAS industry to safely scale.

In North Dakota, the Northern Plains UAS Test Site has teamed up with Airspace Link, North Dakota DOT, VantisUAS, FAA BEYOND program and Thales to implement critical drone infrastructure to support safe and scalable advanced drone operations across the entire state. This blueprint will show just how America can implement a standardized, accessible, and repeatable system for state-wide drone deployments. This will lower the barrier for advanced drone operations into a single network that multiple users can take advantage of to meet their needs to fly beyond visual line of sight and package delivery. https://www.commercialuavnews.com/infrastructure/north-dakota-s-vantisuas-system-is-building-the-blueprint-on-how-to-safely-integrate-bvlos-operations-at-scale?utm_source=Commercial%20UAV%20News&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=5_minute The company is led by Michael Healander along with founding members Ana Healander and Daniel Bradshaw, who grew the Detroit-based team to 20 full-time staff in the last year and has developed partnerships with over forty government agencies and municipalities in the United States to implement Airspace Link's AirHub platform for drone infrastructure. "Our core purpose is to safely integrate drones into the national airspace and our communities at scale," said Healander. "We thank Altos Ventures and Thales for joining our vision of paving the way for the drone economy with shared, neutral and affordable UAS infrastructure." About Airspace Link, Inc: Airspace Link, Inc. is an FAA Approved UAS Service Supplier (USS) of the Low Altitude Authorization & Notification Capability (LAANC). A cloud-based platform founded by Detroit, Michigan based founder Michael Healander. Airspace Link low altitude drone infrastructure is deployed to local communities and airports to support the safe use of recreational and commercial drone use in the region. These capabilities provide a new type of Smart City mobility infrastructure supporting the growth of drone operations, drone service providers, drone manufacturers, package delivery and air taxi in the future. Airspace Link's world headquarters is located at 1250 Library Street, Suite 61, Detroit, MI 48226. Visit https://airspacelink.com/. Media Contacts: Airspace Link, Inc.:

Jake Serwer / (248) 894-9684 / jake@espressopublicrelations.com

Lisa Peterson / lisa.peterson@airspacelink.com View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/airspace-link-completes-a-10-million-series-a-round-led-by-altos-ventures-301301078.html SOURCE Airspace Link

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[May 27, 2021] Amazon Web Services Will Now Be Offered by Ingram Micro Platform in Mexico as Part of Global Expansion

Ingram Micro (News - Alert) announced today the launch of Amazon Web Services (AWS) on the Ingram Micro Mexico Cloud Marketplace and will be distributing a full range of AWS solutions to its reseller network in Mexico, bolstering the offering of the world's most comprehensive and broadly adopted set of cloud solutions. Ingram Micro Cloud, an Advanced AWS Consulting Partner and AWS Distributor, announced its global Strategic Collaboration Agreement (SCA) with AWS in March. One of the central aims of the agreement is to drive the geographic reach and footprint of AWS and its partners. As part of this global expansion, Ingram Micro Cloud is now delivering a complete portfolio of AWS solutions to resellers in Mexico, as well as its recent launches in Australia and New Zealand. More global expansions will be announced in 2021. Ingram Micro's large network of partners will see new opportunities to meet customer needs and expand their IaaS business as a result of the SCA with AWS. Jose Antonio Morales, AWS Partner Lead for Latin America, affirmed that the alliance with Ingram Micro is strategic in driving both companies' digital transformation, both technologically and mentally. "Both organizations decided to strengthen our allance and jointly invest in Mexico so that our partners can have access to better programs and benefits," he said. "In addition to understanding our customer-centric culture, they will be able to certify their teams and specialize in our 200+ solutions."



"For over 12 years, Ingram Micro has been in the cloud business and it has been complemented by acquisitions and developed powerful and easy-to-use solutions. AWS comes to complement our offer of infrastructure and powerful strategic relationships which will allow us to develop different solutions to perform in different markets," added Luis Ferez, VP & CCE of Ingram Micro Mexico. The Ingram Micro team and AWS kicked off a virtual launch event on May 4 to present exclusive services and offerings for local partners interested in building and scaling their AWS offerings. Executives from AWS and Ingram Micro talked about how the addition of these new services will help boost partner capabilities and allow them to deliver comprehensive solutions to solve unique business problems. The event garnered an overwhelming response and had more than double the amount of expected attendees.

Additionally, the collaboration will see both organizations work together to bolster Ingram Micro Cloud's current skills and offerings, as well as develop new resources to support channel partners in managing end customers. Ingram Micro Cloud currently provides an AWS Cloud Center of Excellence (CCoE) team with over 100+ AWS certifications, AWS Professional and Managed Services, AWS Well-Architected services, AWS Operations and Billing Services, and more. Ingram Micro Cloud also covers a wide range of partner enablement and support initiatives to help AWS partners build a healthy AWS practice through partner programs like AWS Illuminate and ISV Activate, which provide end-to-end engagement models for Ingram Micro Cloud to enable SI Partners and ISVs through their journey in the cloud. Further information about Ingram Micro Cloud's AWS business can be found here: https://now.ingrammicrocloud.com/aws. About Ingram Micro Cloud Ingram Micro Cloud brings together innovators and problem solvers to help the world accomplish more. It facilitates and manages the cloud's complex digital value chain-all powered by CloudBlue technology. Ingram Micro Cloud operates in 64 countries with over 55,000 reseller partners, and its Cloud Marketplace serves 14 million seats, offering more than 120 cloud solutions. With unmatched global reach, easy access to automated go-to-market and integration tools, deep technical expertise, and a curated selection of scalable SaaS (News - Alert) and IaaS solutions, Ingram Micro Cloud helps vendors, resellers and managed service providers by offering More as a Service. Detailed information is available at www.IngramMicroCloud.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005184/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Bishop Fox Appoints Former Cisco Executive and Security Veteran as Senior Vice President and General Manager of Consulting

PHOENIX, May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bishop Fox, the largest private offensive security testing firm, today announced the appointment of accomplished industry executive, Patty Wright, as senior vice president and general manager of consulting. Wright brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record for successfully building and leading services teams at industry giants like Cisco and Symantec, as well as security pioneers including Rapid7, @Stake, and Neohapsis. Wright reports to Bill Carroll, Bishop Foxs chief operations officer (COO). Pattys accomplishments in the security market speak for themselves, and her decision to choose Bishop Fox as the next step in her career is an absolute win for us, said Carroll. Patty is the consummate professional to lead, innovate, and scale our team across a robust, growing services portfolio, including our Continuous Attack Surface Testing (CAST) solution, which combines cutting-edge technology with deep security expertise and human innovation. She brings significant industry expertise to a consulting organization that is unmatched in talent, and her contributions will be invaluable as we accelerate our growth and continue to raise the bar on service excellence. Wright brings more than 20 years of experience in senior executive roles at well-known high-tech and cybersecurity companies. Most recently, she served as the vice president and general manager of customer experience at Cisco where she managed services delivery and customer success, including a large portfolio of security services for one of Ciscos largest global regions. Prior to that, Wright acted as senior director, managing the entire portfolio of security services for the Amercas at Cisco. She previously served as the VP of consulting at Neohapsis, a provider of mobile and cloud security services, which was acquired by Cisco in 2015. She also served as the VP of professional services at Rapid7 where she was instrumental in building a highly profitable business unit from the ground up. She previously held roles as the senior director of consulting at Symantec and regional director at @Stake, which was acquired by Symantec in 2004. Wright earned a Bachelors degree in Computer Science at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada.



Bishop Fox has built an impeccable reputation in the industry for providing the highest caliber offensive security services, said Wright. Im excited to lead a consulting team that represents the best talent in the industry and is dedicated to delivering exceptional results to our clients. Throughout my career, Ive had the opportunity to achieve aggressive year-over-year growth targets while also delivering outstanding customer service. Bishop Fox has all the right ingredients and a strong foundation for me to build on as we accelerate growth and establish our leadership position in the market. About Bishop Fox

Bishop Fox is the largest private offensive security testing firm. Since 2005, the company has provided consulting and Security as a Service to the world's leading organizations  working with over 25% of the Fortune 100  to help secure their products, applications, networks, and cloud resources with penetration testing and security assessments. In February 2019, Bishop Fox closed $25 million in Series A funding from ForgePoint Capital, which has allowed the company to continue to grow its research capabilities and augment and scale its assessment capabilities through next generation offensive security technologies like the award-winning Continuous Attack Surface Testing (CAST), named Best Emerging Technology in the 2021 SC Awards . The company is headquartered in Phoenix, AZ and has offices in San Francisco, CA and Barcelona, Spain.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d9d4b5ce-a970-4629-9bc4-e75bdfc43380 Media Contact:

Jennifer Torode

CHEN PR for Bishop Fox

jtorode@chenpr.com

781.672.3119





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[May 27, 2021] Canadian Construction Managers are Estimated to Save 4.5 Hours a Week and Companies CAD$446K a Year Through Access to Real-Time Data: Procore Survey

Procore Technologies, Inc., a leading provider of construction management software, today published the results of a new survey that found Canadian construction managers who can access real-time insights into performance are estimated to be saving 4.5 hours each week. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005338/en/ Measurable benefits of performance visibility The study, What Gets Measured Gets Managed, focuses on the Canadian results of a survey that also included results from organizations in the United Kingdom and Ireland, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Arab Emirates. The research explores the impact of construction companies having real-time insights into their project management processes -- or visibility of performance -- through cloud-based software compared to traditional manual processes that can be more difficult to assess. It found a correlation with having visibility of performance and time and money savings. Canadians surveyed estimated a time saving of 4.5 hours each week due to performance visibility (216 hours a year*). Weighted to the sizes of the companies and their labour costs, the results suggest an average annual savings of CAD$446,000 per business from having on-demand access to visibility of performance to avoid delays, rework and other performance gaps. Visibility Making an Impact

Seventy-five per cent of Canadian respondents said their company's level of visibility of performance is very high (21 per cent) or high (54 per cent). A quarter (25 per cent) sai it's moderate or worse. Visibility of performance is related to the tools commonly deployed.



Many Canadian respondents said they use manual tools such as spreadsheets (65 per cent), and experience challenges such as incomplete insights (34 per cent), duplicated insights (31 per cent) and incorrect insights (29 per cent). Among those who have visibility of performance, half (50 per cent) have seen an increase in overall efficiency and productivity in the way their projects are run -- the highest of any country surveyed; 51 per cent noticed fewer defects in projects. Almost half (48 per cent) claimed better safety records.

The survey also found Canadian organizations report different levels of performance visibility throughout the construction life cycle: Almost three-quarters (72 per cent) of Canadian firms with visibility of performance said this particularly applied to the build stage of projects (helping determine optimal cost or phasing, or reduce defects).

A similar proportion (69 per cent) said they gained insights during the preconstruction stage (including better estimates of their project costs).

However, only 46 per cent said they have performance visibility during the operate phase, in which companies schedule maintenance activities and monitor the performance of assets. "Construction has lagged behind other industries in terms of technology adoption and digitization. This research shows that Canada's construction industry is starting to see real signs of digital transformation," said Harry Battu, Head of International Marketing, Procore. "As this transformation unfolds, roles in the industry will change. What won't change is the need for a 'single source of truth' that connects all stakeholders." Half of Canadian respondents using artificial intelligence or machine learning

The results also show Canadians are looking ahead to new technologies and processes for better efficiencies and performance. Artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning is used by just over half of Canadian respondents (52 per cent) to assist with visibility of performance. Four out of five of those not using AI or machine learning said they would "definitely" (16 per cent) or "potentially" (64 per cent) consider using them to help achieve visibility of performance. Additionally, nine in 10 (90 per cent) of Canadian organizations have shared information or insights with their supply chain to improve project performance. The top two benefits are better management of the supply chain and tracking progress of records needed to consider safety plans complete (both 40 per cent). "Canadian firms' willingness to share data and collaborate with their supply chains is evident from the survey, particularly among larger firms," added Battu. "They find it enables better projects, with better time, cost and safety performance. These rewards can be quickly extended across the sector. By enabling performance visibility, smaller, more agile Canadian construction businesses can compete with larger firms, and help their project collaborators, large and small, to work smarter and faster, be more competitive, and achieve better and more resilient profit margins." The report, What Gets Measured Gets Managed, can be downloaded here: https://www.procore.com/en-ca/ebooks/what-gets-measured-gets-managed Methodology

The survey was conducted online by Sapio Research on behalf of Procore in January 2021 among 820 middle managers and above, working for construction companies with 100 people or more in Canada, UK and Ireland, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the UAE. There were 154 Canadian respondents, representing the commercial, industrial, homebuilding/residential, fit-out and civil engineering sectors. *Based on 48 working weeks a year About Procore

Procore (NYSE: PCOR) is a leading provider of construction management software. Over 1 million projects representing more than $1 trillion USD in construction volume have run on Procore's platform. Our platform connects every project stakeholder to solutions we've built specifically for the construction industry-for the owner, the general contractor, and the specialty contractor. Procore's App Marketplace has a multitude of partner solutions that integrate seamlessly with our platform, giving construction professionals the freedom to connect with what works best for them. Headquartered in Carpinteria, California, Procore has offices in Canada and around the globe. PROCORE-IR View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005338/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Courchesne Larose Takes its Commitment to Sustainable Development to the Next Level

MONTREAL, May 27, 2021 /CNW Telbec/ - Courchesne Larose, a leading player in the Canadian fruit and vegetable industry, is proud to announce that it has been awarded the ECORESPONSABLETM Certification, Level 2. Performance, for its high-level environmental and social requirements. The century-old family business has always had sustainable development at the core of its mission and wishes to remain a role model for food companies that play a leading role in society. The ECORESPONSIBLE Certification, Level 2. Performance, issued by ECOCERT CANADA, is awarded following a rigorous process that independently and impartially assessed the compliance of Courchesne Larose's sustainable business processes. The certification applies to its two sites in Anjou and Central Market in Montreal. "We are very proud to obtain the second level of the internationally-recognized ECORESPONSABLETM Certification. As part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability, it is essential for Courchesne Larose to mobilize its teams and constantly reinvent itself in order to take concrete actions to improve our environmental and societal practices. We want to have a positive and sustainable impact on ur planet, because it is the Earth that produces the fruits and vegetables that feed our industry," said Alain Routhier, President of Courchesne Larose.



This new historical step demonstrates once again Courchesne Larose's determination to contribute to the transition towards a low-carbon economy and healthy eating. A Regenerative Business Vision

Courchesne Larose became aware of its impact on the life cycle of its activities and has set up an eco-responsibility committee to allocate the necessary resources to achieve its sustainable development objectives, both in terms of employee training and in its supply chain.

Recently, Courchesne Larose installed new LED lighting in its warehouses, which allows for significant energy savings and has also acquired electric trailers for short-term storage of products. Also, it uses a technology in its cold rooms to free the air of ethylene, a gas produced by certain fruits and vegetables, thereby allowing for improved preservation. The company is always seeking new ways to optimize its operations through food preservation and safety, in addition to promoting local purchasing when a product is available in Quebec. "Courchesne Larose does everything in its power to offer its customers fresh fruits and vegetables of superior quality, so that it can delight consumers with a varied and delicious offer. This mission also implies that we must relentlessly contribute to reducing our environmental footprint. We are able to improve ourselves by integrating sustainable development considerations into our strategic planning, while mobilizing our work teams around a common vision," added Frederic Monette, Vice-President of Operations at Courchesne Larose. Let us recall that Courchesne Larose initiated the creation of Loop Mission, a circular economy project that reduces food waste and repurposes rejected fruits and vegetables by transforming them into different products. Loop Mission recently won the People's Choice Award at the global startup competition Get in the Ring 2021. Also, Courchesne Larose, which has always been concerned about food security in its community, is a major contributor to Moisson Montreal and Moisson Rive-Sud. About Courchesne Larose

A major player in the Canadian fruit and vegetable industry for over 100 years, Courchesne Larose Ltd. is a family-owned company with over 420 employees. Its primary mission is to provide its suppliers with the largest and best distribution network of fresh fruits and vegetables in Eastern Canada, allowing its customers to benefit from diversified and quality products year-round. Its suppliers come from all over the world and its customers are located throughout Canada and on the American East Coast. SOURCE Courchesne Larose

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[May 27, 2021] Deeplite Announces Community Version of Neutrino for Optimizing Deep Learning Applications at the Network Edge

Free Version of Leading AI Optimization Engine Helps Accelerate Deployment of AI Models and Neural Networks by Engineers, Researchers and Academics MONTREAL, May 27, 2021 /CNW/ -- Deeplite, a provider of AI software designed to make other AI models faster, more compact and energy-efficient, today announced its Deeplite Neutrino Community version. This free version provides a hands-on introduction while also enabling new connections and knowledge exchange among community members from different commercial, research and academic environments. Community users will benefit from sharing feedback and ideas using Deeplite Neutrino on Github, while optimizing their deep learning models for memory, compute, power and other resource constraints on cameras, drones, smartphones and other network edge devices. As organizations look to include more edge devices in their AI and deep learning strategies, they are faced with the challenge of making AI models run on devices that often have very limited hardware resources. Deeplite created Neutrino, an intelligent optimization engine for Deep Neural Networks (DNNs) deployed on cloud servers, where increased throughput can save money, and edge devices where size, speed and power are often major challenges. With Neutrino, AI experts automatically optimize high-performance DNN models for these resource constraints. Neutrino inputs large, initial DNN models that have been trained for a specific use case and understands the edge device constraints to deliver smaller, moe efficient, and accurate models.



Neutrino Community is designed for deep learning engineers and teams at both startups and larger corporations, as well as industry researchers and academics  anyone looking to test the benefits of optimization on their AI models. While powerful, DNNs are complex and require extensive computing power, which can be a barrier to deploying on edge devices. As a result, developers often struggle to optimize DNN models, without compromising accuracy, which limits the benefit of their AI strategy. "We are constantly looking for ways to improve and extend our AI Cluster, and Deeplite's new Neutrino Community version allows us to provide advanced DNN optimization and collaboration with our network of university researchers," said Yassine Hariri, senior AI/ML scientist at CMC Microsystems. "Because of a shortage of AI talent, it can often be difficult to find experts to discuss ideas and challenges with, so we look forward to fostering industry-academic interactions."

The Community will allow members to accelerate and enhance their current AI research and development projects by testing out the impact of optimizing their AI models. Deeplite provides various examples of how to optimize different applications and use cases for deep learning models such as image classification, object detection and semantic segmentation. The Community Version of Deeplite Neutrino also includes access to two key resources: Deeplite Torch Zoo  a collection of popular DNN model architectures and benchmark datasets for PyTorch framework. Its pre-trained models can be used as a starting point for optimizing model architectures using Neutrino.

 a collection of popular DNN model architectures and benchmark datasets for PyTorch framework. Its pre-trained models can be used as a starting point for optimizing model architectures using Neutrino. Deeplite Profiler  a tool to measure the performance of a deep learning model easily and effectively in both PyTorch and TensorFlow 1.x frameworks. Members can utilize existing metrics or create their own custom metrics. In addition, performance can be compared between two deep learning models  for example, a teacher and student model. "The network edge is critical  it's where users interact with devices and applications, businesses connect with customers, and the data to drive strategy and operations is generated. And while businesses want to push their AI software to the edge, the resource limitations of edge devices are holding them back," said Nick Romano, CEO and co-founder at Deeplite. "Rather than spending time and money to try building optimization software on their own, our free Neutrino Community version lets deep learning engineers and researchers download our software to immediately test optimizing their models. This will accelerate more AI on the edge and move our mission of 'AI for Everyday Life' forward." For more information, or to register for the Community, visit the Deeplite GitHub at https://github.com/Deeplite/neutrino#Get-Your-Free-Community-License About Deeplite Based in Montreal, Canada, Deeplite is an AI software company dedicated to enabling AI for everyday life. Deeplite uses AI to automatically make other AI models faster, smaller and more energy-efficient creating highly compact, high-performance deep neural networks for deployment on edge devices such as cameras, sensors, drones, phones and vehicles. Deeplite was named to the 2020 CB Insights AI100 list of top 100 privately-held AI companies and has been featured by Gartner, Forbes, Inside AI and ARM AI as a premier Edge AI innovator. To learn more about Deeplite, visit www.deeplite.ai. View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/deeplite-announces-community-version-of-neutrino-for-optimizing-deep-learning-applications-at-the-network-edge-301300545.html SOURCE Deeplite

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[May 27, 2021] Digital Realty Expands Global PlatformDIGITAL with New Data Centers in Downtown Toronto, Canada and Marseille, France

PlatformDIGITAL provides trusted foundation for resilient digital business as industries accelerate digital transformations globally

New highly-connected downtown data center is company's third in the emerging tech hub of Toronto

MRS4 will provide 13.6 MW of capacity and direct access to 14 submarine cables landing in Marseille AUSTIN, Texas, May 27, 2021 /CNW/ -- Digital Realty (NYSE: DLR), the largest global provider of cloud- and carrier-neutral data center, colocation and interconnection solutions, today announced the operning of its latest North American data center in downtown Toronto, opening up 800kw and 6,900 ft of new colocation facilities at the heart of a vibrant connected data community. The new YYZ12 data center, Digital Realty's third data center in Greater Toronto, will be fully interconnected with redundant dark fiber paths to Digital Realty's TOR1 data center in Vaughan. The new downtown location at 151 Front St represents an ideal meeting point for deploying network hubs on PlatformDIGITAL, a first of its kind global data center platform for scaling digital business. The company also today broke ground on its fourth center of data exchange in the strategic interconnection hub in the southern port city of Marseille in France. The new MRS4 site is expected to offer up to 13.6 megawatts (MW) of customer capacity and benefits from an exceptional geographical location in the heart of the Mediterranean, as well as direct access to 14 submarine cable systems which land in Marseille, extending the global reach of PlatformDIGITAL with low-latency connectivity options between the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia. "Together these new capabilities in Toronto and Marseille represent a strategic milestone on Digital Realty's global roadmap for PlaformDIGITAL in North America and EMEA," said A. William Stein, CEO of Digital Realty. "Over the last 18 months since we announced our platform vision and strategy, we've introduced over 20 new data center expansion projects around the globe. As enterprises across all industries rapidly shifted to digital business models during an unprecedented year, the global number of participants in our connected data communities more than doubled to over 4,000 organizations." Companies such as Three Point Turn Inc. recognize the value of leveraging colocation solutions from Digital Realty to support continued digital business growth. The Toronto-based software developer deployed its critical infrastructure at One Century Place, a next-generation digital hub on the site of the former Toronto Star printing press. "As a Toronto-owned company developing custom software solutions for some of the most innovative enterprises and startups across North America, we recognize the value of deploying our critical infrastructure on PlatformDIGITAL," said Chris Mihalicz, CEO of Three Point Turn. "Access to a consistent global data center platform with a highly connected data community is critical to help our customers overcome challenges such as data gravity and data localization as they rapidly scale their digital business." Toronto is a more critical mrket than ever as businesses recognize the growing importance of the region as one of the next major technology hubs in North America. In particular the city is a major hub of data attraction for financial services, banking and the insurance industries. The Data Gravity Index DGX reveals that the city is in the top 10 metros in terms of growth in data gravity intensity for these sectors through 2024.



Digital Realty's new downtown data center will be fully interconnected with new Metro Connect capabilities, forming a connected campus environment for Digital Realty's customers in Toronto. Whether customers deploy network hubs in the new YYZ12 downtown facility, or data and control hubs within the large scale facility at 1 Century Place, customers can now address data gravity head on by deploying distributed network architectures that interconnect easily via a new dark fiber ring. "As a local fiber provider in Toronto, we are excited to be able to underpin Digital Realty's new Metro Connect offering for Canadian and global customers in the city," said Dan Armstrong, CEO/CTO of Beanfield Metroconnect. "Our companies share a common vision of an open platform approach to interconnection that will help enterprises address the challenges of data gravity and scale their digital business."

Customers in Toronto can also take advantage of a direct metro connection to Service Exchange, enabling flexible access to a global connected data community of over 215 cloud on ramps, 360+ network and content providers and 2,000+ fabric participants. Digital Realty also leverages IBM's next-generation Direct Link 2.0 capability to provide access to the IBM Cloud in Toronto, enabling customers to spend less time designing and deploying network architectures to accelerate the development of new solutions via the hybrid cloud. Supporting Resources: For more information on colocation possibilities with Digital Realty in Toronto please visit: https://www.digitalrealty.com/toronto

please visit: https://www.digitalrealty.com/toronto Read today's news of the ground-breaking for MRS4, our fourth data center in Marseille, France

Explore global deployment opportunities on PlatformDIGITAL

Visit the Data Gravity Insights Hub to learn more about data gravity and see growth forecasts in the Data Gravity Index DGx

Read about our open interconnection manifesto for enabling connected data communities About Digital Realty

Digital Realty supports the world's leading enterprises and service providers by delivering the full spectrum of data center, colocation and interconnection solutions. PlatformDIGITAL, the company's global data center platform, provides customers a trusted foundation and proven Pervasive Datacenter Architecture (PDx) solution methodology for scaling digital business and efficiently managing data gravity challenges. Digital Realty's global data center footprint gives customers access to the connected communities that matter to them with 290 facilities in 47 metros across 24 countries on six continents. To learn more about Digital Realty, please visit digitalrealty.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter. Media & Industry Analyst Relations

Marc Musgrove

Digital Realty

+1 (415) 508-2812

mmusgrove@digitalrealty.com Investor Relations

John Stewart / Jim Huseby

Digital Realty

+1 (415) 738-6500

investorrelations@digitalrealty.com Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements which are based on current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially, including statements related to YYZ12, the Toronto market, MRS4 and the Marseille market, PlatformDIGITAL and the Data Gravity Index. For a list and description of such risks and uncertainties, see the reports and other filings by the company with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. 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. View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/digital-realty-expands-global-platformdigital-with-new-data-centers-in-downtown-toronto-canada-and-marseille-france-301300527.html SOURCE Digital Realty

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[May 27, 2021] Diligent's Modern Leadership Initiative Adds New Partners to Advance Gender Equality in Leadership Positions in Europe

Diligent Corporation, the global leader in SaaS (News - Alert) governance, risk and compliance, today announced the addition of four new partners, all based in Spain - Esade Center for Corporate Governance , Fundacion Woman Forward, Instituto de Gobernanza Empresarial and WomenCEO - in its growing Modern Leadership initiative, which was created to further increase diverse representation in global businesses at the executive and board levels. These organizations are committed to promoting best corporate governance practices, including increasing diversity and inclusion. According to research conducted by the Diligent Institute, men currently hold approximately three times more board leadership positions than women. The Modern Leadership initiative, which seeks to improve this statistic, helps companies measure and report on diversity as a part of their environmental, social and governance strategy.



"Esade's Center for Corporate Governance is deeply passionate about the role women play in business success and growth," said Mario Lara, Director of Esade Madrid and the Center for Corporate Governance. "Progress in achieving equality at the board and senior leadership levels is still nowhere near the rate it should be, which is why global initiatives like Diligent's Modern Leadership are vital in changing the landscape and trajectory for women leaders." The new Spanish organizations joining the Modern Leadership initiative include:

Esade Center for Corporate Governance - The Center for Corporate Governance together with the Esade Alumni Club of Directors aims to become a leading reference center in the field of corporate governance in Spain. The Esade alumni network is the largest in Europe and one of the most expansive in the world, comprising over 60,000 members in 118 countries.

Fundacion Woman Forward- The foundation is a non-profit institution that promotes women empowerment, gender equality, and diversity, using training and research. Woman Forward encourages and helps to strengthen the role of women in business.

Instituto de Gobernanza Empresarial - The Institute of Business Governance provides training and networking opportunities, and disseminates research to promote a business culture that is committed to corporate governance.

WomenCEO - WomenCEO aims to make women visible in the boardroom while demonstrating the need for them to be counted on in economic and social spheres. The organization believes that women are influential, both on the board of directors and in management positions in companies and institutions. "Closing the gender gap in leadership is a global challenge that we have a greater chance to solve with international coordination," said Brian Stafford, CEO of Diligent. "This is why expanding Diligent's Modern Leadership initiative to include these organizations and others like them is imperative. Together, we can use our networks to identify, present and fill leadership positions for diverse candidates in the region and beyond." Diligent is committed to driving diversity by enacting change at the board level. To learn more about Diligent's Modern Leadership initiative, please visit https://diligentmodernleadership.com. About Diligent Corporation Diligent is the largest governance, risk and compliance (GRC) SaaS provider, serving more than one million users from over 25,000 organizations around the globe. Our modern GRC platform ensures boards, executives and other leaders have a holistic, integrated view of audit, risk, information security, ethics and compliance across the organization. Diligent brings technology, insights and confidence to leaders so they can build more effective, equitable and successful organizations. We empower 79% of the Fortune 500, 90% of the FTSE 100 and 83% of the ASX 200 to improve their bottom line, to keep pace with stakeholder expectations and to create a lasting, positive impact on the world. For more information, visit www.diligent.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005765/en/

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South Africa: French President to undertake a State Visit to SA

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Friday host President Emmanuel Macron of the Republic of France on a State Visit at the Union Buildings, in Pretoria.

President Macrons first visit to South Africa at the invitation of President Ramaphosa is aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries, which is substantiated by a number of bilateral agreements in various areas of cooperation, said Acting Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni on Thursday.

The Minister was briefing media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.

She said the visit will focus on issues pertaining to the global response to COVID-19 and the economic, health, research and manufacturing responses to the current pandemic and beyond.

The leaders will also discuss the expansion of mutually beneficial trade and investment opportunities.

South Africa is Frances largest trading partner in Africa while France is South Africas second-largest trading partner within the European Union trading bloc.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister of the Republic of the Sudan, Dr Abdalla Hamdok, at the invitation of President Ramaphosa, will undertake a Working Visit to South Africa on 17 June 2021.

During the visit, the two leaders are expected to discuss modalities to enhance bilateral relations and exchange views on issues facing the continent, said the Minister.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2021-05-27. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 15:00:25|Editor: huaxia

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A staff member works in a workshop of a vehicle wheel hub manufacturer in Yutian County of Tangshan City, north China's Hebei Province, April 16, 2021. (Photo by Li Yang/Xinhua)

BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Profits of China's major industrial companies saw accelerated growth in the first four months of this year as the country's economic recovery is further consolidated, official data showed on Thursday.

Industrial firms with an annual business revenue of at least 20 million yuan (about 3.12 million U.S. dollars) saw their combined profits surge 106 percent year on year in the January-April period to over 2.59 trillion yuan, data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed.

When compared with the first four months of 2019, the figure represented a rise of 49.6 percent. The average growth rate over the past two years stood at 22.3 percent, NBS data showed.

The accelerated growth in industrial profits came as market demand continued to improve and major industrial firms had seen improved operations since the beginning of this year, said senior NBS statistician Zhu Hong.

In April alone, the profits of major industrial firms increased 57 percent year on year to 768.63 billion yuan.

Robots operate on a production line at an automotive glass workshop of the Fuyao Glass Industry Group Co., Ltd. in Fuqing City of Fuzhou, east China's Fujian Province, Jan. 12, 2021. (Xinhua/Jiang Kehong)

All 41 industrial sectors saw increasing profits during the January-April period, with the profits of 10 sectors more than doubling, said Zhu.

Compared with the first four months of 2019, a total of 30 industrial sectors logged profit increases, according to Zhu.

During the January-April period, profits of the equipment and high-tech manufacturing sectors respectively jumped 90.8 percent and 88.5 percent year on year, while those of the auto manufacturing industry surged 158 percent.

The consumer goods manufacturing sector also saw improved profits, which rose 45.3 percent from the same period of last year, said Zhu.

Due to improving market demand and the rising prices of bulk commodities, the mining and raw materials manufacturing sectors saw faster profit growth, respectively rising 103 percent and 366 percent year on year.

The operations of industrial firms were further optimized, with rising profitability, declining costs and faster inventory turnovers, according to Zhu.

Robotic arms assemble engines on an assembly line at a workshop of the Weichai Power Co., Ltd. in Weifang City, east China's Shandong Province, April 22, 2021. (Xinhua/Guo Xulei)

Though major industrial firms have sustained their growth momentum, Zhu noted that the recovery of the industrial economy needs to be further consolidated, taking into consideration the uncertainties of the external environment and the pressures on companies caused by rising commodity prices.

Efforts should be made to adopt targeted macro policies, increase the supply of bulk commodities and stabilize their prices to propel the sound development of the industrial sector, said Zhu. 
[May 27, 2021] DonateStock Wins Capital Factory's Houston Investment Challenge, Part of Houston Tech Rodeo

HOUSTON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- DonateStock, an emerging fintech company that helps nonprofits access new sources of funding by making stock donations easy, was announced the winner of the Capital Factory's 2021 $50,000 Houston Investment Challenge. The virtual pitch competition was hosted by Capital Factory, one of the most active startup investors with a presence across Texas, and Houston Exponential, a non-profit organization created to accelerate the growth of Houston's innovation ecosystem. Capping off the Houston Tech Rodeo, the Houston Investment Challenge tasks local startups with presenting their business plan in five minutes or less to a panel of successful entrepreneurs and venture capitalists with the winner earning bragging rights and a $50,000 cash prize. "Capital Factory's Investment Challenge is a prominent part of the Houston Tech Rodeo, and we congratulate DonateStock for winning the $50,000 first prize," said Harvin Moore, President of Houston Exponential. Steve Latham, founder and chairman of DonateStock, presented the company's pitch and explained their vision of unlocking $100 billion in new funding for nonprofits. Andrea Young, co-founder and chief executive officer says, "We are thrilled to have won the Houston Tech Rodeo Challenge and we believe this new partnership with Capital Fctory will be a force multiplier as our brand grows."



Despite the substantial tax advantages of donating stock, less than two percent of donors currently gift stock directly to nonprofits due to the lack of awareness of its benefits, and an antiquated process that is complicated and time-consuming. DonateStock seeks to address these problems to transform charitable giving by making stock donations fast, easy and secure for everyone. Visit DonateStock.com to learn how nonprofit organizations can unlock a new source of funding by enabling investors to execute stock donations in less than 10 minutes.

About DonateStock

DonateStock was founded to help nonprofits access new funding by enabling everyday investors to donate stock in minutes. The streamlined process helps donors save big on taxes while nonprofits benefit from larger pre-tax donations. DonateStock is passionate about impacting communities by helping nonprofits and donors make the most of charitable giving. About Capital Factory

Capital Factory is the center of gravity for entrepreneurs in Texas, the number one state for startups in the U.S. Thousands of entrepreneurs, programmers, and designers gather day and night, in-person and online for meetups, classes, and coworking. With boots on the ground in Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio, we meet the best entrepreneurs in Texas and introduce them to investors, employees, mentors, and customers. According to Pitchbook, Capital Factory has been the most active, early-stage investor in Texas since 2010. About Houston Exponential

Houston Exponential ("HX") is an independent non-profit established in 2017 to increase the rate of startup formation and growth in the Houston region. HX acts as a convening organization to amplify the efforts of partnering organizations including startup development organizations, angel and venture capital organizations, innovation-oriented large corporations, and research and other institutions of higher learning. HX also works in coordination with those organizations to attracting talent, capital, and additional partnering organizations to Houston. View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/donatestock-wins-capital-factorys-houston-investment-challenge-part-of-houston-tech-rodeo-301301360.html SOURCE DonateStock

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[May 27, 2021] Excision BioTherapeutics Appoints Infectious Disease Expert Sumathi Sivapalasingam, M.D, as Head of Translational Medicine

SAN FRANCISCO, May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Excision BioTherapeutics (Excision), a leading developer of potentially curative CRISPR anti-viral therapies to improve patient lives, today announced the addition of infectious disease expert and clinical scientist Sumathi Sivapalasingam, M.D., as Head of Translational Medicine.

Dr. Sivapalasingams extensive experience as a clinical leader and her proficiency in integrating discovery research and translational medicine into transformational medicines will prove to be invaluable as we look forward to initiating the Companys first ever clinical trial of EBT-101 for HIV, said Daniel Dornbusch, Chief Executive Officer of Excision. We are thrilled to have such an experienced infectious disease clinician join our team as we continue to advance our pipeline of CRISPR-based therapies for viral infectious diseases. Prior to joining Excision, Dr. Sivapalasingam was a Senior Director in Early Clinical Development and Experimental Sciences at Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, where she was responsible for the delivery and execution of pipeline assets from clinical candidate selection through the end of late-stage clinical trials and approval. In this role, she was the clinical leader across multiple therapeutic areas, in particular infectious diseases, integrating discovery research and translational medicine to accelerate the development of transformational medicines. Dr. Sivapalasingam was the medical lead for the clinical development of Inmazeb, the first-ever approved treatment of infection caused by Zaire ebolavirus in adult and pediatric patients. More recently, she spearheaded several therapeutic trials early during the Covid-19 pandemic, including several with REGEN-COV, an investigational combination antibody treatment, that received Emergency Use Autorization for the treatment of outpatients with Covid-19. Previously, Dr. Sivapalasingam was an Attending Physician and Clinical Scientist in the Infectious Disease Division at NYU School of Medicine and was a Director at the NYU School of Medicine  Kenya HIV clinic in Mombasa, Kenya, where she initiated the HIV treatment program through PEPFAR (Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) and conducted clinical and immunological research at the Bomu Medical Center. She was also an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the Foodborne and Diarrheal Diseases Branch. Dr. Sivapalasingam earned her B.S. in Physics from Swarthmore College, and her M.D. from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University.



Excisions CRISPR gene editing platform potentially enables therapeutics to be safely administered to patients through precise targeting and viral genome deactivation with a very low off-target effect probability, said Dr. Sivapalasingam. It has proven to be an effective functional cure for HIV in animals in preclinical studies. It is an exciting opportunity to be joining an innovative company with the potential to transform the treatment of infectious diseases for patients globally. I look forward to working with the Company to advance its pre-clinical pipeline assets into the clinic and beyond. 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 27, 2021] Fitness Sensation Isaac Boots Announces Torch'd Hamptons Classes

Instagram fitness sensation ISAAC BOOTS (@isaacboots) announced today that he will teach classes in the Hamptons this summer to benefit seven local charities. Classes will take place at the amphitheater of the Children's Museum of the East End every Saturday and Sunday for 12 weekends from June 19th through September 5th, 2021. The special "TORCH'D LIVE! FROM THE HAMPTONS" series of classes will be available live to Isaac's global audience through a variety of streaming platforms. Tickets for Isaac's classes will go on sale on Thursday, May 27th, 2021 at 10am EST at isaacboots.com. Torch'd has teamed up with tech partner, Talent Hack to provide a seamless booking experience for participants. As attendee space is limited, there will also be a waiting list where interested participants can sign up to be notified of last minute availability, additional classes, and more news about the Residency. The Hawaiian-born Boots is a popular celebrity trainer, with clients such as KELLY RIPA, LISA RINNA, VANESSA HUDGENS, JESSICA CHASTAIN, and many others. After getting his start as a dancer and choreographer in Broadway shows like "West Side Story" and "Mamma Mia," Boots became known for his successful fundraising efforts, including one for ``No Kid Hungry" in which he raised $1.2 Million that concluded in March. Isaac offers a free TORCH'D workout every day at 11 am EST on Instagram LIVE. "I couldn't be more excited to lead classes at the Children's Museum of the East End this summer," said Isaac from his home in New York City. "It will be an opportunity to work out with my Boots Babies in person while having fun and raising money for seven incredible organizations hose initiatives benefit local Hamptons children and teens," Isaac continued. "I am honored that the Children's Museum is hosting this special Residency."



"The Children's Museum and the six other nonprofits involved in the East End Fund for Children are very excited to partner with Isaac this summer. His exercise classes are a fantastic way to work out and have fun at CMEE while helping support vulnerable kids in our community," said Stephen Long, President, Children's Museum of the East End. Recently, Isaac launched "Isaac's Dance + Donate Challenge" in association with NYU Langone Health. His newest fundraising effort benefits nurses and frontline hospital workers who are experiencing severe stress-related symptoms following their work over the past 15 months battling the Covid-19 pandemic. 100% of funds raised goes to wellness and resiliency initiatives for nurses and frontline workers and is already achieving tremendous participation.

A portion of proceeds from the Residency will benefit seven local charities. The organizations were selected because they collectively serve a range of age groups from infants through teenagers from across the five East End Townships. They include: Bridgehampton Child Care & Recreational Center runs a food pantry for over 700 people, as well as continuing all their thriving programs for after-school, teens, college prep, and a new workforce training program.

runs a food pantry for over 700 people, as well as continuing all their thriving programs for after-school, teens, college prep, and a new workforce training program. Children's Museum of the East End (CMEE) operates a food pantry for 75+ families each week, as well as bilingual support groups and educational programs for at-risk children and families.

operates a food pantry for 75+ families each week, as well as bilingual support groups and educational programs for at-risk children and families. Eleanor Whitmore Early Childhood Center runs a weekly food pantry for 50 families, and has added extra classrooms and staffing to address the increased demand for childcare among essential workers.

runs a weekly food pantry for 50 families, and has added extra classrooms and staffing to address the increased demand for childcare among essential workers. i-tri provides a touch point for vulnerable families in the community, providing mental, emotional, and physical training for adolescent girls along with other outreach programs such as art therapy and mentoring circles.

provides a touch point for vulnerable families in the community, providing mental, emotional, and physical training for adolescent girls along with other outreach programs such as art therapy and mentoring circles. Project MOST offers an array of programs for students in Pre-K through Grade 8 including full day remote learning support, after school, summer learning, and small group weekend workshops. Program hours are designed to match the hours when families are working.

offers an array of programs for students in Pre-K through Grade 8 including full day remote learning support, after school, summer learning, and small group weekend workshops. Program hours are designed to match the hours when families are working. The Retreat provides comprehensive services, including shelter and counseling to children impacted by violence and abuse, as well as violence prevention education to grades 3-12. It is also assisting nonresident clients with food, transportation, and medication during the pandemic.

provides comprehensive services, including shelter and counseling to children impacted by violence and abuse, as well as violence prevention education to grades 3-12. It is also assisting nonresident clients with food, transportation, and medication during the pandemic. Southampton Youth Association provides recreational programming in small, intimate groups and on Zoom that develops their character, while maintaining distance and safety. In addition, it is offering scholarships to students for high quality SAT prep and is providing financial support for families to buy groceries. In addition to his classes, Isaac will soon be announcing the opening of "Torch'd Shoppe by Isaac Boots", a pop up retail store showcasing the sponsors of his Summer Residency as well as offering a selection of unique products personally curated by Isaac. ABOUT ISAAC BOOTS: Born and raised in Hawaii, Isaac Boots is a celebrity trainer, choreographer, and Broadway dancer with a long list of credits to his name. While using his experience crafting routines on the main stages of the pop music world and training artists to sculpt their bodies in preparation for their demanding projects, Isaac created TORCH'D, a sustainable workout that burns fat, builds stamina, and achieves visible results. Isaac teaches a free TORCH'D workout everyday at 11 am EST on Instagram LIVE (@isaacboots). He is known for his significant fundraising efforts for several non-profit organizations. TORCH'D Summer Residency is produced by PLASTER PRESENTS, a division of PLASTER PARTNERS LLC, founded by Isaac's personal manager Michael Catalano. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005287/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Higher Education Institutions Rely on Jenzabar Solutions to Navigate COVID-Era Challenges and Build the Digital Campus of Tomorrow

Jenzabar, Inc., a leading technology innovator in higher education serving the new student, today announced that more than 50 higher education institutions across the U.S. have selected or expanded the use of Jenzabar solutions over the past year to navigate operational challenges prompted by the global pandemic and to prepare for the future. These institutions will leverage elements from the mobile-friendly Jenzabar One platform to power online learning, analytics, financial aid, student recruitment and retention, and more. Facing unprecedented challenges brought about by the pandemic, colleges and universities have been pressured to accelerate their digital transformations and increase the use of technology across campus. When students and staff were forced off campus to a remote capacity, Jenzabar's flexible platform enabled institutions to quickly adapt and establish effective online learning and working environments. As everyone returns to campus with new expectations for academic work and life, Jenzabar's solutions have positioned institutions to adopt the new normal that will materialize over the coming months and years. Some of the higher education institutions that are using modern elements of the Jenzabar One platform include Arkansas Baptist College, Carolina University, East Texas Baptist University, North Central Michigan College, Palm Beach Atlantic University, Shaw University, Southern Virginia University, Trinity School of Medicine, Unitech Training Academy, Wartburg Theological Seminary, Wilmington College, West Shore Community College, and more. The Jenzabar One platform comprises a portfolio of sophisticated and modern higher education systems, including student, finance, and human capital systems, as well as the following additional solutions. Jenzabar Financial Aid automates the entire financial aid process, eliminates hours of tedious paperwork, and enables staff to get the award offer in the hands of prospective and returning students quickly.

Jenzabar Retention helps keep each student on their personal track to success, from matriculation all the way through to completion.

Jenzabar Recruitment enables institutions to deliver personalized outreach initiatives that target and engage prospective students earlier in their application and selection process to increase the likelihood of enrollment.

Jenzabar eLearning enables institutions to create dynamic learning environments for students by empowering faculty to adopt innovative methods of delivering personalized educational experiences.

Jenzabar Advancement enables institutions to cultivate constituent relationships, strengthen fundraising outcomes, and increase donor participation.

Jenzabar Analytics centralizes data from disparate sources and allows staff to assess, understand, and use critical information to make informed decisions and take action.

Jenzabar Chatbot, powered by artificial intelligence, is a self-service, digital engagement channel that allows students to get answers to commonly asked questions on demand, freeing up staff to focus on more challenging queries.

Jenzabar Unity Platform is an integrated platform-as-a-service (iPaaS) offering that consolidates and simplifies system-to-system integrations across campus.



"Higher education is evolving faster than it ever has before and technology is playing a critical role at the center of how people work, learn, and live - both on campus and beyond," said Ling Chai Maginn, President and CEO of Jenzabar. "Jenzabar's powerful suite of tools gives institutions the ability to quickly and cost-effectively modernize their infrastructure and stay ahead of evolving expectations. The broad adoption of our solutions across the Jenzabar One system is a meaningful testament to how the innovations we've developed empower institutions to address the very acute needs they're currently facing while putting them in the position to succeed down the road."

Resources For more information about Jenzabar One, the unified, cloud-ready platform built for higher education institutions, please visit: https://jenzabar.com/jenzabar-one About Jenzabar Created out of a passion for education and a vision for technology, Jenzabar offers disruptive, innovative software solutions and services that empower students' success and help higher education institutions meet the demands of the modern student. Over 1,350 higher educational campuses harness Jenzabar solutions for improved performance across campus and a more personalized and connected experience for the student. For further information, please visit www.jenzabar.com or on Twitter @Jenzabar or LinkedIn. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005738/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Holberton School Named to GSV EdTech 150

SAN FRANCISCO, May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Holberton School , making software engineering education affordable and accessible globally, has been named to The GSV EdTech 150, which recognizes the worlds leading, most transformational education technology companies.

Holberton School was chosen from among 2,000 venture capital and private equity-backed private companies across several evaluation factors: revenue scale, revenue growth, active learner reach, international reach and margin profile. GSV estimates that these 150 companies together reach approximately 3 billion people -- close to half of the global population -- and generate approximately $20 billion in revenue. GSV launched its inaugural list of leaders in education technology in 2020 with the EdTech 50, and with rapid growth in the sector, increased this years list to 150. The Holberton School network has been providing a first-rate, software engineering education to many students around the world, with an education focusing on learning how to learn, in order to train them for the 4th industrial revolution. The Holberton team is delighted with this recognition, but I want to dedicate this award to our Holberton School partners and Holberton Schools' staff around the world, who are dedicating their lives to helping their students, said Julien Barbier, CEO and founder of Holberton. The world faces an increasing tech talent gap, which we are helping close one school at a time. Congratulations to Holberton School for being selected for the GSV EdTech 150, said Deborah Quazzo, managing partner of GSV. When we launched the EdTech 50 last year, none of us knew the impact that a global pandemic would bring to education. COVID-19 brought 1.6 billion learners online overnight, ushering in the dawn of digital learning, and those we recognize today certainly met the moment. Holberton School has responded to unprecedented demand and growth with what GSV calls Weapons of Mass Instruction -- and we look forward to seeing what you do next. To arrive at its listing, GSV evaluated more than 2,000 venture capital and private equity-backed private companie across several factors:



VC or PE-backed private companies in Digital Learning, excluding companies that are public or have filed to be public

Companies that are post-Series A in their development with the exception of bootstrapped companies that have achieved meaningful scale with $10+ million in revenue

Organic top line growth at over 30%

The selection is determined by GSVs internally developed scoring system that applies scores across several KPIs including revenue scale, revenue growth, active learner reach, international reach and margin profile. The GSV EdTech 150 list is evenly distributed between three major groups: Life-Long Learning, Higher Ed, and K-12. K-12 leads with 33% of the top 150 companies, with another 13% in blended K12/Higher Education companies. Workforce Learning and Adult Consumer learning together account for 37%, with Higher Education at 14% and Early Childhood at 3%.

The GSV EdTech 150 list is evenly distributed between three major groups: Life-Long Learning, Higher Education, and K-12. K-12 leads with 33% of the top 150 companies, with another 13% in blended K-12/Higher Education companies. Workforce Learning and Adult Consumer learning together account for 37%, with Higher Education at 14% and Early Childhood at 3%. North America -- specifically the United States -- is the leading geography within the EdTech 150. North America accounts for nearly half of the list, with China and India at 18% and 10%, respectively. These markets combined represent over 73% of those included. Europe, the Middle East, and Africa are represented by 15% of the listing, with several high quality, fast growing companies such as Photomath, OpenClassrooms, Brainly, and GoStudent. Latin America -- and specifically Brazil -- is showing strong early trends, with Hotmart, Descomplica and UOL EdTech all experiencing impressive growth. To see the full list of companies selected to the GSV EdTech 150, please visit www.asugsvsummit.com/edtech-150 . ASU+GSV Summit

The ASU+GSV Summit is an annual event hosted by Arizona State University and GSV connecting leading minds focused on transforming society and business around learning and work. The 2020 Summit welcomed over 15,000 attendees from more than 135 countries, including leading educators, innovators, investors, strategists, foundation leaders, media, and policy makers across the Pre-K to Gray global education and skills sectors. Previous keynote speakers include, President George W. Bush, Bill Gates, Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Common, Justice Sandra Day O Connor, Richard Branson, John Legend, President Vincente Fox, Gloria Steinem, and Howard Schultz, among others. About Holberton School

A world-class education should be available to everyone  regardless of background, gender, or ethnicity. Thats why Holbertons college alternative program will offer students multiple ways to finance their tuition. Graduates have gone to work as software engineers at top employers, including Apple, MercadoLibre, Pinterest, Google, Rappi, and LinkedIn. Holberton School trains software engineers in both practical knowledge and theory by utilizing project-based and peer learning. Founded in Silicon Valley by Julien Barbier and Sylvain Kalache, Holberton School has campuses in Colombia, Ecuador, France, Lebanon, Mexico, Peru, Tunisia, the United States, and Uruguay. Go to www.holbertonschool.com to learn more. For Media Relations contact:

Lonn Johnston lonn@flak42.com

+1.650.219.7764



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[May 27, 2021] Jain Group Selects CGS BlueCherry Solutions to Enhance Its Supply Chain Processes to Support Ambitious Growth Plans

NEW YORK, May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CGS, a global provider of business applications, enterprise learning and outsourcing services, today announced that Jain Group, the baby and childrenswear manufacturer and license holders headquartered in the U.K., selected BlueCherry Enterprise Suite of solutions, including Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), BlueCherry Next Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), B2B eCommerce and Business Intelligence (BI). The BlueCherry suite provides end-to-end capabilities for apparel, footwear and consumer lifestyle brands.

Jain Group offers an extensive range of in-house brands and private label services, and licensed brands specializing in baby and childrenswear. The U.K.-based company conducted a comprehensive review of multiple solutions to provide a multi-channel solution to manage the companys current customer streams and futureproof for expansion. Jain Group sought an end-to-end solution to support its brands and to provide data transparency and accuracy across all of its worldwide offices and operations. With extensive expertise and resources in the apparel market, the CGS BlueCherry suite of solutions will support Jain Groups current and future business as it rapidly grows. BlueCherry will help Jain Group optimize operational efficiencies, enhance better agility and quality control, while simplifying and supporting the Group's continuous demand of its vast and evergrowing portfolio of products. We have many complex processes in our businesses, said Vivek Jain, Managing Director of Jain Group. With BlueCherry we will have the ability to manage these more efficiently and effectively to ensure that our focus remains on our growth whilst continuing to deliver fantastic products and services to our customers. The rapidly changing apparel market requires an agile solution to ensure bette visibility of the overall business and its processes and to improve collaboration internally and with suppliers, said Paul Magel, president, Business Applications division, CGS. We are thrilled to welcome Jain Group to our BlueCherry community of apparel and consumer brands customers and look forward to a long-lasting partnership. I am proud to add another stellar member to our growing global BlueCherry community.



The CGS BlueCherry Enterprise Suite provides clients with comprehensive digital supply chain management solutions, available both in the cloud and on-premises, to drive their fundamental business processes. With a focus on the needs of high-growth organizations operating in consumer lifestyle products, retail and apparel, BlueCherry is a unified platform that provides supply chain visibility with the latest digital technologies. The BlueCherry Suite addresses the needs of the end-to-end supply chain, from planning and product development to manufacturing and sales. About Jain Group

Established in 1985, Jain Group has grown to become one of the market leaders in the baby and childrenswear sector. The Group has grown significantly over the last 10 years and its products are supplied worldwide to over 30 countries with regional offices in the U.S., Greece, China, India and Bangladesh. The business, with its headquarters in the U.K., offers an extensive range of products and services across in house, own brand and licensed baby and childrenswear. For more information, visit: https://www.jainco-group.com/products

About CGS

For over 35 years, CGS has enabled global enterprises, regional companies and government agencies to drive breakthrough performance through business applications, enterprise learning and outsourcing services. CGS is wholly focused on creating comprehensive solutions that meet clients' complex, multi-dimensional needs and support clients' most fundamental business activities. Headquartered in New York City, CGS has offices across North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. For more information, please visit www.cgsinc.com and follow us on Twitter at @CGSinc and @BlueCherryCGS and on LinkedIn. Media Contact:

Susan Sweeney, CGS

newsroom@cgsinc.com Emily White, for CGS

cgsny@pancomm.com



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[May 27, 2021] MACOM to Participate in the International Microwave Symposium 2021

MACOM Technology Solutions (News - Alert) Inc. ("MACOM") a leading supplier of semiconductor products, today announced that it will attend the International Microwave Symposium 2021 (IMS) in Atlanta, Georgia, June 7 - 10. Members of MACOM's engineering, applications and sales teams will be available at Booth #2021 to answer product-related questions. Further, the company will host eight virtual live demonstrations and four virtual technical talks during the week of IMS. Live demonstrations will be scheduled with MACOM customers June 7 - 10, 2021. The live demonstrations and technical talks will be hosted by MACOM's high-performance RF design, product management and applications engineering teams. Customers will have the opportunity to ask questions and interact with MACOM staff during the demonstrations. To schedule a demo or attend a technical talk, please contact MACOM sales or email demos@macom.com. High-Performance Discretes: DEMO #1: MACOM KV CAPS: Industry's Highest Voltage Semiconductor-Based Capacitor: This demonstration will showcase MACOM's KV CAPS product line being used in a simulated medical application. DEMO #2: Industry Highest Power Switch and Driver in a Plastic Surface Mount Package for Military Applications: This demonstration showcases the innovative design and performance of a surface mount, PIN-Diode SP4T switch and a PIN Diode Driver for military applications. RF Power Offerings - MACOM PURE CARBIDE: DEMO #3: Demonstrating 3kW Power from a Single Device GaN-on-SiC Amplifier: This demonstration showcases the highest power in the industry from a single device at 1GHz. The demonstration will highlight amlifier performance of 3kW of pulsed power at 1030MHz, with efficiency over 67%.



DEMO #4: Demonstrating High Efficiency at 3.1GHz to 3.5GHz with a 100W Power Amplifier: This demonstration shows high efficiency performance of GaN-on-SiC for S-Band applications over the 3.1GHz to 3.5GHz frequency band. DEMO #5: Demonstrating Ultra-Wideband 25W Matched Performance: This demonstration will highlight a 25W power amplifier over the 30MHz to 2.7GHz frequency range. Showcasing wideband performance, the amplifier features a 50 O Input Match and is housed in a standard QFN package.

DEMO #6: Demonstrating Industry Leading DPD Performance at 400MHz for 5G mMIMO applications: This demonstration shows the capability of correcting a 110 W Doherty power amplifier designed for Massive MIMO applications for band 78, using digital pre-distortion over a wide instantaneous bandwidth of 400MHz. Millimeter Wave Portfolio: DEMO #7: Demonstrating 5G 28GHz Tx/Rx Front-End Module Capabilities: This demonstration will showcase MACOM's capability in mmWave FEMs using mixed technologies to deliver optimum performance for 5G applications. DEMO #8: Demonstrating High Performance MMIC Power Amplifiers for Ka-Band: This demonstration will combine two 6W DIE power amplifiers on an evaluation board for a total output power of 12W for Ka-Band applications. IMS Live Technical Talks (Tech Talks) Include: TECH TALK #1: PCB Design for MMIC Amplifiers: In this presentation, MACOM will cover three fundamental PCB design considerations critical for achieving optimal performance - device grounding, thermal considerations and arrangement of bias feeds for amplifiers. TECH TALK #2: Demonstration and Application of MACOM PURE CABRIDE Products: In this presentation, MACOM will highlight the high power, efficiency and broadband operation of MACOM's GaN-on-SiC power amplifiers along with the companion power management integrated circuit (PMIC). TECH TALK #3: Hybrid and MMIC-Based Limiters: In this presentation, MACOM will show the technical merits of its broad portfolio of limiter diodes, limiter modules and proprietary AlGaAs PIN diode limiter technology. TECH TALK #4: AlGaAs W-Band, High Frequency packaging, High Power Switches: In this presentation, MACOM will highlight the technical merits of MACOM's patented AlGaAs technology while highlighting the performance of AlGaAs-based product lines covering 2-40GHz Limiter, mmW Power, mmW SMT and W-Band components. About MACOM MACOM designs and manufactures semiconductor products for Telecommunications, Industrial and Defense and Data Center applications. Headquartered in Lowell, Massachusetts, MACOM has design centers and sales offices throughout North America, Europe and Asia. MACOM is certified to the ISO9001 international quality standard and ISO14001 environmental management standard. OR SALES INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: North Americas - Phone (News - Alert) : +1.800.366.2266

Europe - Phone: +353.21.244.6400

Japan - Phone: +81.3.5472.1609

China - Phone: +86.21.2407.1588 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005270/en/

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[May 27, 2021] MyRepublic is redefining the Cloud-Office with ModernWorkplace solutions

SINGAPORE, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- MyRepublic today announced the rollout of MyRepublic ModernWorkplace solutions, a complete cloud office solution which includes Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Teams and is designed to streamline collaboration platforms, increase employee productivity, and harden security for remote workers. ModernWorkplace is also one of the first MyRepublic service offerings made available to customers without the need for a broadband or mobile subscription. With a focus on mobile devices and access management features for organisations with highly mobile or remote workers and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies, ModernWorkplace empowers teams to be collaborative and creative in a seamless, secure manner, regardless of work environments and locations. This comes amid the shift towards hybrid work in Singapore, where work-from-home is the default mode of work. The three key areas of focus for ModernWorkplace powered by Microsoft 365 on Azure Cloud are: Enhanced Productivity which merges business and collaboration applications into an integrated and secure public cloud platform. This allows for extreme flexibility at work and a one-stop hub for teamwork. Advanced Security includes detection, prevention, investigation, and response across devices, identities, email, and applications to provide integrated protection against sophisticated attacks. Mobile Device Management provides an identity-driven set of Cloud-based BYOD Device Management tools to secure sensitive assets accessed by users regardless of location or device. One-stop solution to enhance productivity and security ModernWorkplace is a complete solution which includes Microsoft 365 productivity and collaboration tools including Microsoft Teams, suited for organisations with assets spread across multiple locations and platforms while maintaining the security and integrity of systems and data. All ModernWorkplace solutions are delivered through a managed service partnership between MyRepublic and Rhipe using MyRepublic's existing Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) certification. Dedicated support and instruction Backed by a dedicated team of support specialists, ModernWorkplace is professionally delivered by deployment and adoption experts from MyRepublic who are Microsoft-certified. Priority support is included in all ModernWorkplace plans, with certified specialists on hand to provide the highest quality fault finding and diagnostics. Support is flexible and scalable according to the needs of all business types and sizes, with 24/7 call, email, and online assistance available to all customers. "Creating seamless communications for all our customers has always been our priority at MyRepublic, and ModernWorkplace has been designed to play a key role in enabling businesses to collaborate and communicate seamlessly across platforms, all while maintaining security and enhancing workforce productivity," said Lawrence Chan, Managing Director, MyRepublic Singapore. "We are thus excited to be rolling out MyRepublic's ModernWorkplace solutions, to help allow employees to work with a peace of mind from anywhere and on any device, whether they choose to return to their offices or prefer to work remotely." "We are pleased to be working with MyRepublic to deliver modern workplace solutions to businesses in Singapore. As we navigate the future of work together, we look forward to providing customers with access to trusted Microsoft 365 services as they create productive, secure and collaborative hybrid work experiences. With most workers transitioning between working in offices and remotely, they can benefit from having secure solutions embedded with AI and machine learning as they support economic recovery and drive personal productivity," said Vivek, Chatrath, Director  Small, Medium and Corporate Segment at Microsoft, Singapore. The ModernWorkplace Core Plans consist of 5 tiers which cover a variety of tools and features fit for businesses of all types and sizes:











ModernWorkplace Firstline ModernWorkplace Basic ModernWorkplace Premium Plan includes  Microsoft 365 Enterprise F1 (or)  Microsoft 365 Enterprise F3  Microsoft 365 Business Basic  Microsoft 365 Business Premium Who's it for Workers that are always on the ground and mobile that need quick and secure access to customer data, company processes, sensitive information. Compliance and security while remaining mobile on various devices. Those who simply need the basic Office 365 components. Company mailbox and collaboration tools to stay connected with the team, but limited access to company assets. Perfect for contract workers, interns, and temps under BYOD policies. Business Premium can support even executive level roles. With a full suite of productivity, mobility, and security components this plan is perfect for the business traveller that needs unrestricted 24/7 access to the organization and its assets from anywhere in the world.

In line with the launch of ModernWorkplace, MyRepublic is offering up to 10% off on ModernWorkplace licenses for the first year of annual subscription. All new customers are also entitled to a free cloud office and security assessment, designed to provide organisations with an analysis of their current working environment and how they can optimise it with the right tools, applications and services to support a secure and modern workplace. For more information on ModernWorkplace, and to sign up for the free cloud office and security assessment, visit myrepublic.net/sg/business/modernworkplace/. About MyRepublic One of the fastest growing telecom operators in the Asia-Pacific, MyRepublic has operations across Singapore, New Zealand, and Australia, and is set to expand further into the region. Our vision is to be the world's largest enabler of deep, meaningful and trusted relationships between customers and products through a highly scalable connectivity franchise model. With our uniquely scalable and centralised framework enabling the seamless delivery of layered services, MyRepublic has become a leader in the digital transformation for the telecom sector, one that is set to play out over the next decade in one of the most exciting regions of the world.

SOURCE MyRepublic

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[May 27, 2021] Network for Online Course Sharing Launches to Boost Community College Enrollment and Completion

CHANDLER, Ariz., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The League for Innovation in the Community College, an international nonprofit organization serving community colleges, has announced an ambitious initiative to significantly expand the availability of online courses at community colleges. Built in collaboration with Acadeum, the pioneering developer of an online course sharing platform, the newly created League for Innovation Online Course Sharing Consortium will enable community colleges to increase access to high-quality, credit-bearing online courses to help students stay on track to completion. "This new consortium will help community colleges better meet learners' needs by arranging student access to courses that are unavailable at their home institutions," said Cynthia Wilson, Vice President for Learning and Chief Impact Officer for the League for Innovation in the Community College. "This initiative is also about harnessing the collective expertise and capacity of community colleges to improve flexibility in scheduling for students seeking in-demand courses." The need for high-quality online courses and student-centric pathways has increased as learners navigate a rapidly changing labor market and the broader challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center recently reported that enrollment in associate's degree programs decreased by 10.9 percent over the past year. According to a New America survey , the number one reason students chose not to enroll was the demands of full- or part-time work. The consortium will allow institutions to offer credit-bearing courses at times andin modalities that are convenient for working learners.



Community colleges can participate in the League's course sharing consortium as home institutions, which gives their students access to other members' online courses. They can also join as teaching institutions, allowing other consortium members to enroll students in their online courses with excess capacity and generating additional revenue. Montgomery County Community College in Pennsylvania is the first school to join the consortium as a teaching institution. Courses offered through the consortium will count fully toward GPA, financial aid, and graduation requirements at students' home institutions, which helps to support students on their path to completion. The consortium also avoids many of the inefficiencies of transfer and articulation, which can lead to wasted credits, lost time, and increased student expenses.

"The youth and adult learners we serve have complex, full lives that have been further complicated by the pandemic," said Dr. Victoria Bastecki-Perez, President of Montgomery County Community College. "Sharing access to our quality courses will assist partner community colleges in supporting learners along their path to certificate and degree completion. The consortium will enhance the learning experience and provide much-needed resources for students." In recent years, the consortial model for online course sharing has steadily grown in popularity with institutions, systems, and higher education associations, such as the Digital Higher Education Consortium of Texas and the Council of Independent Colleges. Acadeum's course sharing platform has helped more than 14,000 students save over $30 million and accelerate their path to completion. "For millions of students, their local community college represents a bridge to educational and economic empowerment," said Josh Pierce, CEO and co-founder of Acadeum. "This work is about building the infrastructure for community colleges to collaborate and share their strengths. We are excited to support the League in meeting this profound responsibility, allowing students to access additional courses to help them achieve their educational and professional goals." The consortium is open to any member of the League for Innovation in the Community College. Community colleges can join the League to gain access to the consortium and other member benefits. Members interested in participating in course sharing as a home or teaching institution can visit https://go.acadeum.com/league_ocsc . About the League for Innovation in the Community College

The League for Innovation in the Community College is an international nonprofit organization with a mission to cultivate innovation in the community college environment. The League serves as a catalyst for introducing and sustaining deep, transformational innovation within and across colleges and international borders to increase student success and institutional excellence. Founded in 1968 by B. Lamar Johnson and a dozen U.S. community and technical college presidents, the League has proudly served community college institutions for over 50 years. Through these years, the League has sponsored more than 200 conferences, institutes, seminars, and workshops; published over 200 reports, monographs, periodicals, and books; led more than 160 research and demonstration projects; and provided numerous other resources and services to the community college field. To learn more about the League, visit www.league.org . About Acadeum

Acadeum helps colleges and universities create academic partnerships with like-minded institutions to support student progress and equitable access. Today, more than 380 higher-ed institutions use Acadeum's course-sharing network to place students in online courses they need to stay on track for timely graduation. Institutions gain new revenue from courses they offer through the network, by sharing tuition dollars from courses taken by their students, and by keeping at-risk students enrolled. To learn more about Acadeum, please visit acadeum.com . View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/network-for-online-course-sharing-launches-to-boost-community-college-enrollment-and-completion-301301113.html SOURCE Acadeum

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[May 27, 2021] Nicola Calicchio Named Chief Strategy Officer of SoftBank Group International

SoftBank Group International ("SBGI") today announced that Nicola Calicchio has been appointed Chief Strategy Officer of SBGI, effective July 1, 2021. Mr. Calicchio is based in Sao Paulo, Brazil and will report to Marcelo Claure, CEO of SoftBank Group International and COO of SoftBank Group. In this role, Mr. Calicchio will be responsible for sourcing and structuring strategic investments in leading Latin American companies. "Nicola is the ideal fit for the newly-created role of Chief Strategy Officer," said Mr. Claure. "He brings to SoftBank a unique perspective of value creation from his time at McKinsey & Company (News - Alert) , where he established a proven track record of successfully executing large mergers and acquisitions that reshaped industries, as well as massive turnarounds that generated billions of dollars of value. Nicola's deep experience providing counsel to many business leaders and CEOs of some of the largest LatAm companies fits perfectly with our efforts to expand our growing presence in the region. We are thrilled to have him join us and I look forward to working closely with him as we continue to execute SoftBank's mission to invest in companies that are changing the way we work, play and live." Mr. Calicchio commented, "I am proud and humbled for the opportunity to join SoftBank's remarkable team and execute on all of the exciting initiatives in the pipeline. Investing in leading technology- and AI-enabled companies aligns with my vision for the future, and I'm energized by the enormous opportunity to help transform the lives of hundreds of millions of people in our continent and create value for SoftBank and across our global portfolio of companies." The appointment of Mr. Calicchio further strengthens SBGI's leadership team. In March 2021, Alex Szapiro, former Country Manager for Amazon Brazil, was appointed Operating Partner and Head of Brazil for SoftBank's Latin America Fund, and in May 2021, laudia Woods, former CEO of Uber in Brazil, was appointed CEO of WeWork in Latin America.



About Nicola Calicchio Mr. Calicchio joins SoftBank after a tenured career at McKinsey & Company, where over a period of more than 28 years he helped the company grow into the $10+ billion corporation it is today by serving over 100 clients from more than 20 countries in all continents in a variety of sectors. Most recently, he became the first Latin American to ever become Co-Chair of a Global McKinsey committee by serving as Co-Chairman of the Global Client Council. In this role, Mr. Calicchio oversaw 50 experienced Senior Partners in their mentorship of other partners leading client service teams and CEO counseling. Prior to this, he became the first Latin American to lead McKinsey's LatAm Region as Managing Partner and a Global OpCo Member, where over a period of seven years he helped grow top-line revenue by over 300%, increased location sites from six to 10, and grew the number of colleagues in the region from 500 to 2,000. Previously, Mr. Calicchio served as Senior Partner, where he created and led McKinsey's LatAm Consumer Practice into its largest practice in the region, and before that, served as mid-tenured Partner and Associate.

Mr. Calicchio currently serves in an advisory capacity for a number of organizations, including as a member of the UNICEFs advisory Board in Brazil; a member of the Advisory Board of Brazilian Student Association (BRASA), which oversees the more than 5,000 undergraduate Brazilian students living abroad; a member of the Advisory Board of Peninsula Participacoes; and a Board Member of MASP, Latin America's largest museum. Previously, he helped found and served as Chairman of Generation in LatAm, a non-profit organization created by McKinsey to fight youth unemployment. Mr. Calicchio was also the recipient of the Lowell Bryan award, given to the McKinsey partner who made the most distinctive contribution to the development of women professionals at McKinsey. Mr. Calicchio has been a speaker at over 100 conferences around the world and author of dozens of reports, such as the McKinsey Digital Report. He received his M.B.A. from the M.I.T. Sloan School of Management and a B.S. with distinction in Civil Engineering from the Federal University of Minas Gerais. About SoftBank Group The SoftBank Group invests in breakthrough technology to improve the quality of life for people around the world. The SoftBank Group is comprised of SoftBank Group Corp. (TOKYO: 9984), an investment holding company that includes stakes in telecommunications, internet services, AI, smart robotics, IoT and clean energy technology providers; the SoftBank Vision Funds, which are investing more than US$100 billion to help extraordinary entrepreneurs transform industries and shape new ones; the $US5 billion SoftBank Latin America Fund, the largest venture fund in that region, and the SB Opportunity Fund, a US$100 million fund dedicated to investing in enterprises founded by entrepreneurs of color in the U.S. To learn more, please visit https://global.softbank. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005389/en/

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 16:49:51|Editor: huaxia

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Members of the Communist Party of China (CPC) have a very strong sense of responsibility to themselves, the community and their country at large, Dr. Clifford Ochieng Mboya, a Ph.D. graduate of Fudan University in Shanghai, has told Xinhua.

Chinese people support the party's policies, so that the country is able to meet its targets in a very efficient way, Mboya added.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service
[May 27, 2021] Nokia selected by T-Mobile to deliver managed security services and optical network modernization

Press Release Nokia selected by T-Mobile to deliver managed security services and optical network modernization Nokias managed automation services to deliver automated network and security operations for T-Mobile Netherlands

Operators infrastructure is protected against cyber threats with Nokia's holistic Managed Security Services

Nokia WaveFabric portfolio to transform operators optical network into a service-centric platform to fulfill 5G demands and future technical developments



27 May 2021 Espoo, Finland  Nokia today announced it has been selected by T-Mobile Netherlands as a strategic partner to accelerate digital transformation while securing its fixed and mobile networks against cyber threats. The partnership will provide the operator with a wide range of managed services including automated network and security operations, as well as a service-centric optical network over the course of the five-year rollout. With an ever-growing amount of Security threats and attacks on networks globally, regulators are calling for more stringent security measures at the same time. To further improve protection of its network and customers, T-Mobile Netherlands will make use of Nokias Managed Security Services  covering all network elements. The service will provide a wide spectrum of security capabilities while meeting the latest cyber security standards and regulations. Nokias state-of-the-art network and services operations centre will deliver these services on a 24/7 basis. Nokia will use its NetGuard Audit Compliance Manager to continuously audit and remediate the security configurations of T-Mobile Netherlands to improve compliace to regulations and minimize risks.



The partnership will also ensure a superior user experience for clients through comprehensive managed multi-vendor network operation services. In addition, cognitive services based on the Nokia AVA AI-ML system will transform the overall efficiency of the network operation and guarantee the resilience required in the digital era. To create a more scalable and automated service-centric platform, Nokia will modernize the operators optical network by consolidating its existing Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) networks into one new core and aggregation network. T-Mobiles renewed DWDM network will cover the entire country, including 50+ strategic cities, offering its customers enhanced service quality and speeds reaching 400Gbit/s and higher, while it benefits from a simplified network that increases operational and cost efficiency.

The optical solutions being deployed to further future-proof T-Mobiles network are based on the Nokia WaveFabric service-ready platforms and Nokia WaveSuite software portfolio. The Nokia NSP (Network Services Platform) will provide network automation for faster delivery of transport services, optimized network utilization and traffic engineering, as well as dynamic assurance for operating the network with maximum performance and reliability. Jeroen van Straten, Director Network Operations at T-Mobile, said: T-Mobile wants its customers to enjoy our networks without any privacy concerns. That is why we continuously challenge ourselves to make our networks as stable and secure as possible. We selected Nokia based on their comprehensive set of sustainable and secure solutions. With Nokias years of experience in managed services and building robust optical networks, our team is even more able to concentrate on enabling new services for our customers with faster time to market and lower risks and costs. Friedrich Trawoeger, Senior Vice President Cloud and Cognitive Services at Nokia, said: Our intensified partnership with T-Mobile Netherlands leverages our deep understanding of their network while also ensuring heightened importance on protecting their network against possible cyber breaches. Our continuous innovation in security services and service-centric optical networks accelerates digital transformation and provides solutions that can be easily scaled to meet 5G demands and be ready for new developments in the future. Resources Webpage: Nokia Managed Services



Nokia Managed Services Webpage: Managed Security Services



Managed Security Services Webpage: Optical Networks



Optical Networks Webpage: Nokia WaveFabric



Nokia WaveFabric Webpage: Nokia WaveSuite



Nokia WaveSuite Webpage: Nokia Network Services Platform

About Nokia

We create technology that helps the world act together. As a trusted partner for critical networks, we are committed to innovation and technology leadership across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. We create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs. Adhering to the highest standards of integrity and security, we help build the capabilities needed for a more productive, sustainable and inclusive world. Media Inquiries:

Nokia

Communications

Phone: +358 10 448 4900

Email: press.services@nokia.com





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[May 27, 2021] omniQ Receives Purchase Order to Deploy its AI Based Cloud Solution for Georgia State University from ASPIS Parking

omniQ to deploy PERCS? (Permitting, Enforcement, Revenue and Collection) Cloud-hosted Solution at Georgia State University in Atlanta, GA

PERCS represents a Recurring revenue business model

Follows growing demand for Companys AI based solutions from other universities and education institutes, homeland security authorities and various gated communities.

SALT LAKE CITY, May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- omniQ Corp (OTCQB: OMQS) (OMNIQ or the Company), a provider of Artificial Intelligence and Supply Chain (AI)-based solutions, announced today the receipt of a Software as a Service recurring revenue agreement from ASPIS Parking to deploy its PERCS (Permitting, Enforcement, Revenue and Collection) Cloud-hosted Software for Georgia State University. The agreement also includes deployment of multiple omniQs eCite Pro enforcement vehicles, which includes omniQs complete AI mobile Vehicle Recognition System, for enforcement of permit violations and citation issuance. Georgia State joins several universities that are using omniQs AI products that are based on Machine Vision, including Penn State, Georgia Tech and Emory University. Our latest version of PERCS will be utilized to transform the customer experience for faculty, staff, student and visitor parking at over a dozen garages and surface lots throughout the downtown Atlanta campus. Integrations and interactions with Blackboard, Panther Card, MARTA, UPASS, Touchnet for payments and omniQs PayGO for declining balance permits are just a few of the many features that will soon be introduced to the parking customers at this prestigious university. We are pleased with recent developments in our AI based business with new sales and marketing models enabling scalable growth and a recurring revenue model. We are honored to enter into an agreement with ASPIS Parking to provide our AI based PERCS software to streamline campus parking management at Georgia State University. ASPIS Parking has been a long-time valued partner of ours, with dozens of sites and hundreds of lanes of our industry leading AI based Vehicle Recognition Systems (VRS & LPR) technology already deployed in and around Atlanta, said Shai Lustgarten, CEO. Harry Katsoudas, President of ASPIS Parking (Access Security Parking Integrated Solutions) commented, I have been working with this team of folks for over a decade and when the opportunity arrived to provide a transformational upgrade to the parking experience for permits and enforcement at Georgia State University there was no hesitation who we needed to bring in for the solution. My experienc with the people, products, support and performance of omniQ/HTS has been sensational."



Beth Jones, Associate Vice President of Finance and Administration of Georgia State University commented, We are excited about improving the customer service experience for our faculty, staff and student parking patrons with the deployment of the new PERCS and PARCS Systems at Georgia State University." About OMNIQ Corp.

OMNIQ Corp. (OTCQB: OMQS) provides computerized and machine vision image processing solutions that use patented and proprietary AI technology to deliver data collection, real-time surveillance and monitoring for supply chain management, homeland security, public safety, traffic & parking management and access control applications. The technology and services provided by the Company help clients move people, assets and data safely and securely through airports, warehouses, schools, national borders, and many other applications and environments.

OMNIQs customers include government agencies and leading Fortune 500 companies from several sectors, including manufacturing, retail, distribution, food and beverage, transportation and logistics, healthcare, and oil, gas, and chemicals. Since 2014, annual revenues have grown to more than $50 million from clients in the USA and abroad. The Company currently addresses several billion-dollar markets, including the Global Safe City market, forecast to grow to $29 billion by 2022, and the Ticketless Safe Parking market, forecast to grow to $5.2 billion by 2023. For more information, visit www.omniq.com. Information about Forward-Looking Statements Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements in this press release relating to plans, strategies, economic performance and trends, projections of results of specific activities or investments, and other statements that are not descriptions of historical facts may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. This release contains forward-looking statements that include information relating to future events and future financial and operating performance. The words anticipate, may, would, will, expect, estimate, can, believe, potential and similar expressions and variations thereof are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which that performance or those results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time they are made and/or managements good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause these differences include, but are not limited to: fluctuations in demand for the Companys products particularly during the current health crisis, the introduction of new products, the Companys ability to maintain customer and strategic business relationships, the impact of competitive products and pricing, growth in targeted markets, the adequacy of the Companys liquidity and financial strength to support its growth, the Companys ability to manage credit and debt structures from vendors, debt holders and secured lenders, the Companys ability to successfully integrate its acquisitions, and other information that may be detailed from time-to-time in OMNIQ Corp.s filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. Examples of such forward looking statements in this release include, among others, statements regarding revenue growth, driving sales, operational and financial initiatives, cost reduction and profitability, and simplification of operations. For a more detailed description of the risk factors and uncertainties affecting OMNIQ Corp., please refer to the Companys recent Securities and Exchange Commission filings, which are available at https://www.sec.gov. OMNIQ Corp. undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless otherwise required by law. Investor Contact: James Carbonara

Hayden IR

(646)-755-7412

james@haydenir.com Brett Maas

Hayden IR

(646) 536-7331

brett@haydenir.com



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[May 27, 2021] OutSystems Platform Used by Asia Pacific College to Equip Students with Modern Application Development Skills

MANILA, Philippines, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- OutSystems, a leading modern application platform, today announced that it is integrating its platform with Asia Pacific College's School of Computing and Information Technologies curriculum. All second- and third-year students will learn modern application development entirely on the OutSystems platform. OutSystems has been in place with the School of Computing and Information Technologies as part of their application development and project-based learning capstone curriculum. With OutSystems, students are learning everything from software development theory to building full fledged applications. "OutSystems is thrilled about our deepening relationship with Asia Pacific College," said Mark Weaser, APAC Vice President of OutSystems. "As a technology firm firmly embedded in the Asia Pacific region, we're cognizant of both the shortage of developers within the industry and the need to learn modern application development skills. Integrating our platform into the IT curriculum can help ensure that there are skilled developers in the workforce to meet the demands of business, particularly user and customer experience is central to business success. We are happy to expand our relationship with Asia Pacific College and continue empowering new developers and talents across academia." The full integration of the OutSystems platform into the Asia Pacific College curriculum is an extension of an ongoing relationship. Students recently used OutSystems to build a variety of applications. The College's project-based learnin approach ensures a hands-on experience from the beginning, using OutSystems to build applications that solve real-life problems. After completing the module, students are given the opportunity to achieve OutSystems developer certifications.



"Our students' positive experience with the OutSystems platform was the factor behind us integrating it fully into our curriculum,'' said Rhea Valbuena, Executive Director at Asia Pacific College's School of Computing and Information Technologies. "Our focus is to educate the next generation of developers with the skills required to address the IT talent crunch in the Philippines and beyond. Our students can look forward to developing and honing their skills so they're prepared for outstanding career opportunities ahead." Asia Pacific College also has industry partnerships with organisations like SM Development Corporation, SM Retail, and other partner Business Process Outsourcing companies where students can go for internships and training programs. Some graduates have even gone on to secure full-time positions at these firms.

"It is important for students studying technology to immerse themselves in platforms and technologies like OutSystems so they can be more productive, and also better cater to dynamic business demands. Institutions like Asia Pacific College will continue to play vital roles in adopting such modern application development technologies and teaching prospective students on how to fully utilize them," said Roselle Wednesday Gardon, Computer Science Program Director. Students keen on enrolling into Asia Pacific College's School of Computing and Information Technologies can do so at https://www.apc.edu.ph/online-application/ About OutSystems About OutSystems - OutSystems was founded in 2001 with the mission to give every organization the power to innovate through software. The OutSystems modern application platform's high productivity, connected, and AI-assisted tools help developers rapidly build and deploy a full range of applications anywhere the organization requires. With more than 435,000 community members, more than 1,500 employees, 350 partners, and active customers in 87 countries and across 22 industries, OutSystems has achieved global scale while helping organizations change the way they develop applications. Visit us at www.outsystems.com or follow us on Twitter @OutSystems or LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/outsystems . About Asia Pacific College



Asia Pacific College (APC) is the educational partnership of SM Foundation and IBM Philippines. APC is the only Higher Education Institution (HEI) strong in industry-academia linkages across the curriculum: with industry experience infused in content and industry experts as industry professors, full-time 6-month internship, and project-based learning as the predominant teaching/learning methodology. The aim of APC is to produce highly skilled professionals who can meet the standards of business and industry. APC is continuously upgrading its curriculum with the infusion of industry badges and certification to enhance employability and productivity of its graduates. For more information, visit https://www.apc.edu.ph. SOURCE OutSystems

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[May 27, 2021] PulteGroup's Built to Honor Program Awards Mortgage-Free Home to United States Marine Corps Veteran in Dallas

In a special dedication event, United States Marine Corps Sergeant Patrick Murray received the keys to his new mortgage-free Pulte Home in the Somerset community in Mansfield, Texas. The home was donated by PulteGroup's Built to Honor program, which provides the gift of a new home to wounded veterans and their families across the country. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005107/en/ "It is an honor for our Pulte team, along with the support of our trade partners and suppliers, to build this home for Sergeant Murray, as a way to express our gratitude for his service to our country," said Bryan Swindell, President of PulteGroup's Dallas division. "We warmly welcome the Murray family to the next chapter of their lives, with a home that meets their needs where they will create wonderful new memories together." Built specifically for the Murray family, the 4 bedroom, 3 bath single-family home is 2800-square feet and fully furnished. The home was awarded through PulteGroup's Built to Honor program in partnership with Building Homes for Heroes. This year, the Built to Honor program expects to award ten mortgage-free homes nationwide. To date, the program has provided more than 60 homes to deserving veterans and their families. USMC Sergeant Patrick Murray Sergeant Murray enlisted in 2004 and during his near decade of service, was deployed around the world, including Iraq. He was medically discharged in 2004, with injuries sustained during service. His injuries include PTSD, a traumatic brain injury (TBI), migraines, memory loss, several fractures that have required multiple surgeries, bilaterl hearing loss, tinnitus, vision loss and complex regional pain syndrome.



For his valor, Sergeant Murray has received several accolades, including the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal (2x), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with Combat V Device for Valor, Combat Action Ribbon (Iraq), Iraq Campaign Medal (w/ 2 Stars), Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (3x), Humanitarian Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and National Defense Service Medal, among others. Since his retirement, Sergeant Murray has devoted his life to helping other veterans, first responders and civilians in need through volunteering, fundraising and ongoing work with dozens of charitable organizations.

About Built to Honor PulteGroup's Built to Honor program recognizes and thanks returning military personnel who have been injured during their term of service by providing mortgage-free homes to veterans and their families. Launched in 2013, the program has built and donated more than 60 homes across the country. Built to Honor works in partnership with nonprofit organizations to identify veteran candidates. For more information about Built to Honor, go to http://builttohonor.org. Follow Built to Honor on Twitter (News - Alert) : @BuiltToHonor and Facebook.com/BuiltToHonor. About PulteGroup PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE: PHM), based in Atlanta, Georgia, is one of America's largest homebuilding companies with operations in more than 40 markets throughout the country. Through its brand portfolio that includes Centex (News - Alert) , Pulte Homes, Del Webb, DiVosta Homes, American West and John Wieland Homes and Neighborhoods, the company is one of the industry's most versatile homebuilders able to meet the needs of multiple buyer groups and respond to changing consumer demand. PulteGroup's purpose is building incredible places where people can live their dreams. For more information about PulteGroup, Inc. and PulteGroup brands, go to pultegroup.com; www.pulte.com; www.centex.com; www.delwebb.com; www.divosta.com; www.jwhomes.com; and www.americanwesthomes.com. Follow PulteGroup, Inc. on Twitter: @PulteGroupNews. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005107/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Puppet Names Beth Shea Chief Customer Officer and Hires Trevor Rodriguez as Global Vice President of Professional Service

PORTLAND, Ore., May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Puppet , the industry standard for infrastructure automation, today announced the promotion of Beth Shea from senior vice president of customer success to chief customer officer (CCO) and the hiring of Trevor Rodriguez as the companys new global vice president of professional service. In their roles, Shea and Rodriguez will lead the vision and direction of Puppets customer-centric approach, ensuring that customers can deliver the business outcomes required of them through digital acceleration while simplifying their day 2 operations.

Beth and Trevor are uniquely positioned to solve the challenges of complex, interconnected, and continuously evolving businesses, said Yvonne Wassenaar, CEO at Puppet. With a proven record of understanding customer needs, both Beth and Trevor will bring their deep experience to ensure not only do our customers have the best technology solutions to digitize their businesses in a secure and compliant way but they will be supported with the knowledge to transform and empower their workforce as well. Since joining Puppet as the senior vice president of customer success in April 2019, Shea has been instrumental in restructuring the customer success organization. She has rolled out several new strategic services during her time at Puppet, which has resulted in an increased Net Promoter Score and improved customer retention. Shea has over two decades of experience in large companies and start-ups alike providing a comprehensive and authoritative view of custome challenges while building intimate customer relationships. Prior to joining Puppet, she was the vice president of customer success & worldwide strategic initiatives at Veeam Software and spent several years at VMware where she built and led a cloud services organization. As CCO, Shea will work across the entire organization to embed customer-centric competencies to improve and innovate experiences.



Customers are increasingly looking to Puppet as a trusted advisor who can provide strategic guidance not just on product but also for operational expertise, said Shea. In my new role, my number one goal is to expand our customer impact and keep their evolving needs at the center of all that we do. Shea has expanded her team considerably and as a part of this expansion, shes added Rodriguez as vice president of services. Rodriguez joins Puppet from applications services provider F5, where he was the vice president of global services & engineering services EMEA. Based out of Puppets London office, Rodriguez will bring his vast experience and global insight to drive customer success by helping Puppets international customer base scale their businesses.

"Puppet's mission to empower fearless and open innovation is one I can get behind, said Rodriguez. I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Puppet's world-class team of professional services experts across the globe who want what our customers want  business outcomes." Additional Resources Learn more about Puppet

Follow Puppet on Twitter and LinkedIn

and Read our blog

About Puppet

Puppet helps enterprises modernize and manage their infrastructure with the solutions to automate anywhere, reliably scale, and integrate compliance and security across hybrid infrastructure. More than 40,000 organizations  including more than 80 percent of the Global 5000  have benefited from Puppets open source and commercial solutions to ensure business continuity, optimize costs, boost compliance and ensure security, all while accelerating the adoption of DevOps practices and delivery of self-service. Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, Puppet is a privately held company with offices in London, Belfast, Singapore, Sydney and Timi?oara. Learn more at puppet.com .

Media Contact Zibby Keaton Head of External Communications at Puppet zibby.keaton@puppet.com

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[May 27, 2021] Reply Sustainable Investment Challenge 2021: the Competition Ends With Over 14,600 Participants From 91 Countries Worldwide

With the announcement of the winners, the Sustainable Investment Challenge, the online competition created by Banca Generali and Reply in collaboration with MIP Politecnico di Milano, MainStreet Partners and CFA Society Italy, has officially come to an end. The Challenge, created to introduce students to the world of finance and dedicated to sustainable investments has achieved record breaking results this year, involving more than 14,600 participants from 91 countries worldwide. An equivalent value of 1.965 million dollars was generated through a total volume of 76,746 trading operations executed in the best ESG-rated companies, in order to achieve a positive impact for future generations. Before entering the "live" competition, participants had the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and learn to invest in a sustainable way through the exclusive e-learning content made ad hoc by Reply, Banca Generali and MIP Politecnico di Milano: 8 sections of dedicated learning, 18 bite-sized tutorials and social content, was released during the 5 weeks leading up to the competition as part of the Test&Learn initiative. At the end of the final round, which saw more than 2,200 transactions, each participant submitted a report providing evidence and explanations for the strategy adopted. This allowed the competition jury - made up of Replyers who are experts in both ESG and investing - to evaluate the performance of the 100 finalists who participated in the competition, considering the precise strategic decisions of their sustainable investments and nominate the winners. About the winners: Guido Alberto Marsico, born in Naples in 1998, is currently enrolled in a master's degree in Economics, Management and Sustainability at the University of Suor Orsola Benincasa. Vittorio Ranieri, born in Spoleto in 2000, is currently undertaking a bachelor's degree in International Economy and Finance at the Bocconi University. Vincenzo D'Amborsio, born in Avellino in 1997, is currently enrolled in a master's degree in Economics and Finance at LUISS University. Among the distinctive skills that enabled the winners to success was: the ability to read market contexts in the medium/long term and the identification of the best companies to invest in. These factors were complimented by an excellent ability to sum up and represent the strategies planned and undertaken. "We are extremely satisfied with the great success of this new edition of the Reply Investment Challenge, not only for the numbers achieved and the strategies adopted by the participants, but also for the importance of the competition theme itself - explains Roberto Tognoni, Executive Partner of Reply, he adds - the Challenges allow new generations of talents to experiment with innovative training dynamics and this year we had the opportunity to bring many young people closer to the theme of ESG investments ". "We are happy to have been alongside an educational and fun initiative such as the Investment Challenge which started with the ambitious goal of raising awareness among European students on the issue of sustainable portfolios. Objective fully achieved, given the great success and response among the thousands of subscribers - comments Andrea Ragaini, Deputy General Manager of Banca Generali, who adds - For us who were among the first to take the path of offering ESG investment solutions for families, by concretely measuring the results not only financially but also for the environment and social implications, seeing the determination of the young people in facing this challenge with sustainable "trade" strokes was truly gratifying. The hope is that initiatives like this will raise awareness that investments build the foundations for a new horizon. From this premise comes the commitment to financial education and the responsibility to speak differently and with new tools, including ESG investments ". Marco Giorgino, Senior Professor of Finance at MIP Politecnico di Milano: "Having participated in the Investment Challenge 21 as a partner of Banca Generali and Reply is a source of pride for MIP Politecnico di Milano. In fact, our Shool is aware of the strong need to educate and train financial operators who are attentive to the risk and sustainability of investments. This challenge made it possible to do it in an experiential way, thus confirming the attention that MIP places on projects based on advanced experiments like this one ".



"MainStreet Partners is very proud to have contributed to the success of this year's Reply Investment Challenge, which for the first time has combined the search for purely financial returns with aspects related to sustainability - explains Rodolfo Fracassi, co-founder and Managing Director at MainStreet Partners, who adds - We have made our proprietary ESG models available so that participants can get insights into ESG results before investing their capital. We are gratified to know that many students and particularly young people have taken part in this challenge, demonstrating that the new generations see sustainability as an essential factor in the choice of investments. MainStreet Partners has believed in sustainable investing since its inception in 2008 and seeing that today the entire financial industry is looking for solutions and tools to invest with ESG considerations makes us very confident about the role that our sector will have for a more sustainable future, for both society and our planet". "For CFA Society Italy the training of young people and future talents in the world of finance is a fundamental value. Furthermore, sustainability is one of our basic principles and we are constantly focused on the ESG issues that are revolutionizing the sector. As an association we have always been at the forefront of promoting challenging initiatives like this and the edition of the Investment Challenge with the Reply Sustainable Investment Challenge 2021 has thrilled us" commented Giancarlo Sandrin, president of CFA Society Italy.

The Investment Challenge is part of Reply's Challenges programme, which aims to target the most innovative trends in coding, creativity, cyber security and finance. Since 2018, more than 100,000 people have joined the Reply Challenges community, and last year more than 8,400 players took part in the first Reply Investment Challenge.  Reply

Reply [MTA, STAR (News - Alert) : REY, ISIN: IT0005282865] specializes in the design and implementation of solutions based on new communication channels and digital media. As a network of highly specialised companies, Reply defines and develops business models enabled by the new models of big data, cloud computing, digital media and the internet of things. Reply delivers consulting, system integration and digital services to organisations across the telecom and media; industry and services; banking and insurance; and public sectors. www.reply.com Banca Generali

Banca Generali is a leading private Italian bank. It specialises in financial planning and asset protection for clients, through its network of highly skilled private bankers. The company's strategy is based on four key elements: qualified advice from specialists in protecting family wealth and helping them plan for their future; a cutting-edge product portfolio with solutions tailored to personal needs; innovative wealth management services for looking after tangible and financial assets; and innovative tools that use technology to improve trust between advisor and client. The bank's mission highlights the importance of always having a long-term trusted advisor at the client's side, to build and take care of their life plan and projects. Listed on the Milan Stock Exchange since November 2006, and 50.1% controlled by the Assicurazioni Generali Group - synonymous with over 180 years of international solidity and security - the bank manages over 74.5 billion euros in assets on behalf of customers (figures as at 31 December 2020). With a widespread presence throughout Italy, it has 45 branches and 137 offices at the disposal of over 2050 financial advisors, and advanced digital contact service operations. In addition, its digital banking platform, www.bancagenerali.it, allows customers to access banking services and operations independently. MainStreet Partners

MainStreet is the trusted ESG partner of top tier investors, providing a one stop shop for their sustainability requirements at portfolio level. Its clients are some of the most sophisticated and leading Wealth Managers, Asset Managers, Investment Banks, Insurances and Asset Owners in the financial industry. MainStreet Partners is based in London, regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and consists of two main divisions: 1- ESG Advisory - offers solutions for creating ESG multi-asset and multi-manager portfolios with mutual funds, stocks and bonds. The company develops products with its partners which align to the highest standards of sustainability;

2- Portfolio Analytics - provides a holistic approach to ESG data analysis such as: transparent and detailed Fund ESG Ratings, assessment of clients' portfolios to enhance their ESG profile and align them with the "green" regulation. MIP Politecnico di Milano Graduate School of Business

MIP is the Graduate School of Business of the Politecnico di Milano, one of the best scientific and technological universities in the world, which for more than 40 years has been engaged in providing managerial training programmes for graduates, professionals, companies and institutions.

It has always stood out in the areas of innovation, digital transformation and sustainability. In 2014 it launched Italy's first Executive MBA in digital learning and today, digital training is an integral part of the entire educational portfolio. This commitment has resulted in MIP moving up in the world's leading rankings, being placed 5th in the QS Online MBA Rankings 2020 and 9th in the FT Online MBA Ranking 2020. The School pays particular attention to issues related to sustainability: it is the only European Business School among B Corp certified establishments, a recognition given to businesses which are characterised by their commitment to sustainable development and to building a more inclusive society. MIP constantly works alongside nationally and internationally renowned companies, building partnerships that make it possible to design training courses aimed at providing the tools needed to meet the challenges of today's markets. Internationalisation is another of MIP's characteristics: over 70 different nationalities are represented every day in its classrooms and offices.

The training on offer consists of more than 40 Master's degrees each year, including MBAs and Executive MBAs, a catalogue of over 200 Open programmes dedicated to executive profiles and various customised training courses for companies. CFA Society Italy

CFA Society Italy is the reference association in Italy for professionals who have achieved the qualification of Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), the most important certification in the world of finance. The association, founded in 1999 as an affiliate of the CFA Institute, is the reference point in the area for CFA Charterholders, as well as promoting professional ethics and the value of the training and certification path in our country, providing a series of services for professionals and for those who are following the demanding course of exams. The entire activity of CFA Society Italy, like other affiliated associations in the world, is largely based on the voluntary commitment of the members. CFA Society Italy has more than 500 members. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005075/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Scania Growth Capital invests in sensors for autonomous vehicles

SODERTALJE, Sweden, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Scania's corporate venture capital-fund announces investment of  7,5 million in Scantinel to finance further growth in its specialist LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology. Scantinel Photonics GmbH is a leading LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) start-up and a part of the ZEISS Ventures portfolio, based in Germany. The company develops and produces FMCW LiDAR (Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave) sensors for next-generation LiDAR systems that are a prerequisite to reach a higher level of automation. The technology Scantinel offers delivers a new dimension of data to future vehicles as the sensors measure distances and velocity to objects in the plus-300-meter range with a high level of integration and solid-state scanning. "The future performance and safety of autonomous vehicles is based on unique FMCW LiDAR sensor technology. We see Scantinel as the technology leader in its field and are excited to follow the development at a close range," says Christian Zeuchner, partner at the Scania Growth Capital management company. The funding enables Scantinel to further improve FMCW LiDAR technology, and to commercially implement this technology in close cooperation with customers and technology partners. "We see a great benefit from having Scania's corporate venture capital fund as investor and are pleased to welcome Scania Growth Capital on board to support us on our continuous growth journey," says Scantinel CTO & Co-founder Andy Zott. About Scania Growth Capital Scania Growth Capital is a corporate venture capital fund that invests in growth companies with strategic relevance to Scania and Scania's ecosystem of customers and partners. The fund is managed by an external management company with a team that has extensive experience in both investments and the automobile industry. Through Scania Growth Capital, Scania reaches a segment of complementing companies, giving Scania an opportunity to tap into early development and innovation that is relevant to the industry but outside Scania's own core operations. For more information, visit scaniagrowthcapital.com. CONTACT: For further information, please contact: Karin Hallstan, Head of Corporate Communications, Scania Phone: +46 76 842 81 04 E-mail: karin.hallstan@scania.com This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/scania/r/scania-growth-capital-invests-in-sensors-for-autonomous-vehicles,c3354739 The following files are available for download:







https://mb.cision.com/Main/209/3354739/1423447.pdf Scania Growth Capital invests in sensors for autonomous vehicles https://news.cision.com/scania/i/scantinel-16x7,c2917663 Scantinel-16x7

View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/scania-growth-capital-invests-in-sensors-for-autonomous-vehicles-301300670.html SOURCE Scania

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[May 27, 2021] Snowden Lane Partners Expands International Wealth Presence with New Advisor Team

Snowden Lane Partners, an independent, advisor-owned, wealth advisory firm dedicated to providing client-focused advice in a values-driven culture, today announced the launch of a new advisory team based in their New York City headquarters. The Oliveira, Silva & Mogro (OSM) Group is comprised of Joe Oliveira, Senior Partner, Managing Director, Jorge Silva, Senior Partner, Managing Director, Jessy Mogro, Partner, Managing Director, and Ana Paula O'Keefe, Senior Registered Client Relationship Manager. They oversee $212 million in client assets and joined from Wells Fargo (News - Alert) . Additional information on the new team, including bios, can be found at: https://snowdenlane.com/advisors/osm-global-wealth-management-group/. "We're delighted to welcome Joe, Jorge, Jessy and Ana to the team," said Rob Mooney, CEO of Snowden Lane Partners. "They care deeply about their clients and they've created a tight-knit team that really works well together. It's no surprise they've become such a successful and high-performing group, and we look forward to watching them grow." The OSM Group specializes in customized wealth management solutions and financial planning for their clients residing predominantly in Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, Venezuela and Europe, as well as in the U.S. With almost 90 years of combined experience in the international wealth arena, OSM tailors a customer-centric and fiduciary approach to each of their clients' needsand financial goals, with client satisfaction and trust at the center of all they do.



"The universe of wealth advisors has grown dramatically over the last few years, but as we took a look at the firms out there and analyzed which platforms offered the best home for our clients, Snowden Lane really stood out," said Joe Oliveira. "Clients today demand transparency, independent insights and a wide set of investment options that most traditional wirehouses - and even many RIAs - simply don't offer. This is especially true for advisors like us who service clients around the world. It's nice to find an environment that was built with clients in mind and takes such a forward-looking vision, and we're excited to get started." Added Northeast Managing Director, Doug Flaherty, " Momentum (News - Alert) is something that can't be bought and has to be earned over time. Over the last few years, our leadership has painstakingly and methodically laid the foundation for a truly conflict-free advisory business, and the strong growth we've experienced over the last several months is a testament to their hard work and commitment to serving their advisors. We're honored to welcome this new team to the Snowden Lane family, and look forward to recruiting more in the coming weeks."

Since its founding in 2011, Snowden Lane has rapidly built a national brand, attracting top industry talent from Morgan Stanley, Merrill Lynch, UBS, JP Morgan, Raymond James, and Wells Fargo, among others. The firm has 112 total employees, 62 of whom are financial advisors, across 12 offices around the country: Pasadena and San Diego, CA (News - Alert) ; New Haven, CT; Coral Gables, FL; Chicago, IL; Pittsburgh, PA; Baltimore, Salisbury and Bethesda, MD; San Antonio, TX; Buffalo, NY, as well as its New York City headquarters. The Financial Times (News - Alert) named Snowden Lane to its elite FT 300 list in 2020 for the sixth-straight year, recognizing it as one of the top independent RIA firms in the U.S. The firm was also included in the Barron's 2020 Top 100 RIA Firms ranking, and many of the firm's advisors have been recognized as FT 401 Top Retirement advisors, and a number by Forbes/Shook as Forbes Best-In-State Wealth advisors. About Snowden Lane Partners Snowden Lane is a nationally branded, open-architecture, hybrid registered investment advisor and broker-dealer that provides wealth advisory services to high net-worth individuals, families, and institutional clients. Snowden Lane is led by an experienced team of industry executives, including Lyle LaMothe, Chairman of the Board of Managers, Rob Mooney, Managing Partner & CEO, and Greg Franks, Managing Partner, President & COO, who are dedicated to building a client-focused, nationally branded, boutique wealth advisory partnership. Snowden Lane is headquartered in New York City and operates an SEC (News - Alert) registered investment adviser and a broker-dealer. Snowden Lane provides a multi-custodian, multi-currency platform, with aggregated performance reporting and leading analytical tools for clients and advisors. It further provides full operational, finance, compliance, human resources, and financial advisor transition support to its financial advisors. For more information about Snowden Lane, please visit www.snowdenlane.com. References to "Snowden Lane" and "Snowden Lane Partners" are references to Snowden Capital Advisors LLC, an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and its affiliated entities. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005680/en/

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[May 27, 2021] South Texas Vocational Institute Partners with Excel High School to Provide Pathway to High School Diploma

BROWNSVILLE, Texas, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- South Texas Vocational Institute (STVT) and Excel High School are excited to announce a new partnership that will help individuals who didn't graduate from high school go back to class and earn their diplomas through an accredited online high school. The program, which is delivered 100% online at no cost to students, will be administered through Excel High School with STVT covering the cost for students and providing access to the school's facilities, computers and a facilitator to assist students to help ensure their success. "Excel High School is a leader in the field and we look forward to working with them to help more people take advantage of all that a high school diploma affords  things like accessing jobs with larger salaries, attending college and feeling that sense of accomplishment that comes with realizing a goal," said Dr. Andrea Snow, Senior Vice President-Academics & Career Services for the Ancora Education group of private, post-secondary schools located across the U.S., including STVT. "Excel High School is proud to partner with Ancora Education to provide adult learners a unique opportunity aimed to help adults re-engage their education, graduate from high school with an accredited diploma, and attend college," said Rod Clarkson, Excel's CEO. Individuals interested in the program must apply and interview through Miller-Motte and agree to attend Excel's online delivered classes on the Miller-Motte campus three days a week for two-to-three hours per day. Miller-otte does not teach the classes but provides community-facing support throughout the process. The length of the program varies for each student depending upon the number of credits they have coming into the program.



"Online courses and study applications at Excel High School are highly accessible and easy to navigate. The grading system is refreshingly fair, and the staff is made up of genuinely good, hardworking educators who seek to bring out the best in students. I recommend Excel High School to everyone," said Jalen, an Excel graduate. "Traditional high school did not work for me, so I thank God for Excel and having the opportunity to graduate." Excel High School offers online high school courses that meet State standards for high school graduation. Courses are easy to navigate and help ensure that students' master the course subject matter. Online Courses at EHS are available anytime - 24/7 and each student is supported by an advisor and a highly qualified subject matter expert. Excel High School is a fully functioning, accredited high school.

"Everyone I worked with at Excel is supportive, responsive, and even though courses are online, I felt like I was working with real people that cared about my success," said Luke, an Excel graduate. "The program wasn't easy, but it was worth it. I cannot thank Excel High School enough for helping me earn my high school diploma." Excel High School issues the final diploma to students who graduate from the online program. There is no obligation to enroll at STVT following graduation. "This is a service we provide for our communities because a high school diploma improves eligibility for employment and secondary education opportunities  both of which have a significant economic impact in the communities we serve," said Dr. Snow. About South Texas Vocational Institute

South Texas Vocational Institute has 5 convenient locations and offers training programs in Business, Healthcare, and Skilled Trades. Graduates have access to Career Assistance which includes guidance from our Career Services team, resume updates, workshops and more. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. Learn more at www.STVT.edu. About Excel High School

Since 2005, Excel High School has delivered high-quality, accredited, online K-12 and adult high school programs. The cornerstone of the Excel program includes personalized learning, flexibility to study where and when students learn best, highly qualified instructors, an award-winning, standards-aligned curriculum, easy to use technology, and a diverse online learning community. For more information, call 800-620-3844 or visit ExcelHighSchool.com. Excel High School is a division of Excel Education Systems, Inc. a global leader in online education. View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/south-texas-vocational-institute-partners-with-excel-high-school-to-provide-pathway-to-high-school-diploma-301300651.html SOURCE South Texas Vocational Technical Institute

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[May 27, 2021] Taconic Biosciences Launches TruIMPORT Importation Solution

RENSSELAER, N.Y., May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Taconic Biosciences, a global leader in providing drug discovery animal model solutions, announces a significant enhancement to the Taconic-Cyagen Model Generation Alliance allowing seamless importation of new genetically engineered models originating in China under the TruIMPORT umbrella.

Researchers at non-profit institutions play a critical role in drug discovery; however, outsourcing animal model generation can be cost prohibitive or a logistical challenge. Hurdles in accessing animal model resources can impede important research. Potential solutions to this problem have traditionally come with trade-offs. Depending on the country of origin, cost effective options can require a lengthy quarantine of the animals or additional breeding to ensure animals meet the required health standards for entry into the institutions animal facility. These additional steps can cost the researcher both time and money. Originally launched in 2018, the Taconic-Cyagen Model Generation Alliance (the Alliance) for academic and non-profit researchers leverages the talents of two industry-leading companies to create a solution uniquely tailored for non-profit research institutions. Taconic Biosciences has over 65 years of rodent model experience and Cyagen Biosciences is a China-based leader in model generation efficiency and a competitive cost structure. Since its inception, the Alliance has become a recognized leader in providing model generation services to academics and non-profit researchers. TruIMPORT represents an important evolution in this service offering. It allows animal models from China to be imported into United States and European animal facilities while complying with existing vivarium requirements. Providing a set of choices, TruIMPORT allows customers to access efficient model generation with several pricing options depending on desired delivery timeline, health standard, and cohort size.



Our main goal is to solve problems for our customers, shared Dr. John Couse, vice president of scientific services for Taconic. While the Alliance has provided efficient model generation for years, importation concerns were a barrier for many customers. By creating multiple options under the TruIMPORT umbrella, customers can now import rodent models from China without quarantine regardless of the requirements of their vivarium. The TruIMPORT portfolio consists of three importation options: RapidRELAY, RapidCHECK, and RapidEXPANSION. Customers can compare product specifications here to determine which represents the right combination of timeline, health standards, and deliverables to meet their needs.

About Taconic Biosciences, Inc. Taconic Biosciences is a fully-licensed, global leader in genetically engineered rodent models and services. Founded in 1952, Taconic provides the best animal solutions so that customers can acquire, custom-generate, breed, precondition, test, and distribute valuable research models worldwide. Specialists in genetically engineered mouse and rat models, microbiome, immuno-oncology mouse models, and integrated model generation and colony management services, Taconic operates three service laboratories and six breeding facilities in the U.S. and Europe, maintains distributor relationships in Asia and has global shipping capabilities to provide animal models almost anywhere in the world. About Cyagen Biosciences, Inc. Cyagen Biosciences is a leading provider of comprehensive genetically engineered rodent model services. Cyagen utilizes a highly efficient process, including its proprietary AI technology, to design and deliver novel genetically engineered models with precision and competitive pricing. The Cyagen Transgenic Animal Center (CTAC) in China is a state-of-the-art, specific-pathogen free (SPF) barrier facility, which is both AAALAC accredited and OLAW assured. Cyagen has additional locations in the United States, Japan, and China. Since Cyagens founding in 2005, we have delivered over 78,400 animal models to researchers worldwide and have been cited in over 4,700 publications. Media Contact: Kelly Owen Grover Director of Marketing Communications 518-478-6095 kelly.grover@taconic.com



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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 17:25:51|Editor: huaxia

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SUVA, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Fiji reported 28 new positive cases of COVID-19 on Thursday, bringing the total tally to 314 in the Pacific island nation.

According to the Fijian Health Ministry, 14 cases were from Nausori, a town about 19 km northeast of the capital Suva, while seven cases were naval officers and staff who are contacts of the first naval officer testing positive.

Four cases were primary contacts within the Muanikoso cluster in Nasinu, a town near Suva. Two others were from the Queen Elizabeth Barracks (QEB) connected to the QEB cluster. The remaining one was a resident of Kinoya with no links to other cases at the early stage of investigation.

More than 58,000 COVID-19 laboratory tests have been conducted during the current outbreak, with 98,915 tests conducted in total since testing started in early 2020.

Since the restart of the COVID-19 vaccination campaign within the Suva and Nausori Containment Zones on Monday, 16,148 doses of the vaccine have been administered.

As of Wednesday, 111,801 people in the island nation have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, accounting for 17 percent of the target population of 650,000.

Fiji, with a population of around 900,000, has recorded four deaths and 159 recoveries since it recorded its first confirmed COVID-19 case in March last year.

Fiji's major cities of Lautoka, Nadi, Suva and Nausori have been put under a lockdown. Viti Levu, Fiji's main island where Suva is located, maintains a curfew islandwide from 6:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. every day. Enditem
[May 27, 2021] Tauriga Sciences Inc. Prepares for Major Upcoming Product Launch and Introduces Expanded Tauri-Gummies Product Line

NEW YORK, NY, May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NewMediaWire -- Tauriga Sciences, Inc. (OTCQB: TAUG) (Tauriga or the Company), a New York based diversified Life Sciences Company, today announced its preparations for its major upcoming product launch as well as the expansion of its Tauri-Gummies product line. The Company has worked with great diligence to be Innovative, with respect to the enhancement of its products and product lines. The Company is confident in its ability to gain market share and is continuing to increase its salesforce and its visibility to a broad array of potential new customers.

The Company is making final preparations for the upcoming launch of its enhanced Tauri-Gum product line (its flagship product line). Expected to occur during early June 2021, this product launch will include: 5 SKUs of 25mg CBD & CBG infused chewing gum, 1 SKU of 10mg Delta 8 THC infused chewing gum, 3 SKUs of Cannabinoid free chewing gum (Vitamin C + Zinc, Caffeine, Vitamin D3) and 2 SKUs pursuant to License Agreement (to be disclosed within the near term). The Company is also planning a June 2021 launch of its expanded and enhanced Tauri-Gummies product line. This product launch will include: Original 25mg CBD infused gum drops (re-formulated without artificial colors), 25mg Delta 8 THC infused Blue Raspberry gummies, and 25mg Delta 8 THC + Melatonin + infused Wild Blueberry gummies. Additionally, the Company is pleased to announce its plans to open its first retail location. Once finalized, the Company will notify shareholders about the specific details. Due to the Companys strong balance sheet and liquidity, the Company has the flexibility to pursue multiple opportunities to grow revenue, brand exposure, and material partnerships. In other news, the Company continues to realize important progress, with respect to its Pharmaceutical development efforts. The Company has assembled an experienced and highly qualified clinical development team and expects to provide update(s) to shareholders within the near term. ABOUT TAURIGA SCIENCES INC. Tauriga Sciences, Inc. (TAUG) is a revenue generating, diversified life sciences company, engaged in several major business activities and initiatives. The company manufactures and distributes several proprietary retail products and product lins, mainly focused on the Cannabidiol (CBD) and Cannabigerol (CBG) Edibles market segment. The main product line, branded as Tauri-Gum, consists of a proprietary supplement chewing gum that is Kosher certified, Halal certified, and Vegan Formulated (CBD Infused Tauri-Gum Flavors: Mint, Blood Orange, Pomegranate), (CBG Infused Tauri-Gum Flavors: Peach-Lemon, Black Currant), (Vitamin C + Zinc Infused Tauri-Gum Flavor: Pear Bellini), (Caffeine Infused Tauri-Gum Flavor: Cherry Lime Rickey), & (Vitamin D3 Infused Tauri-Gum Flavor: Golden Raspberry). The Companys commercialization strategy consists of a broad array of retail customers, distributors, and a fast-growing E-Commerce business segment (E-Commerce website: www.taurigum.com). Please visit our corporate website, for additional information, as well as inquiries, at http://www.tauriga.com



Complementary to the Companys retail business, is its ongoing Pharmaceutical Development initiative. This relates to the development of a proposed Pharmaceutical grade version of Tauri-Gum, for nausea regulation (specifically designed for the following indication: Patients Subjected to Ongoing Chemotherapy Treatment). On March 22, 2021, the Company announced that it had converted its U.S. Provisional Patent Application (filed on March 17, 2020) into a U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application. The Patent, filed with the U.S.P.T.O. is Titled MEDICATED CBD COMPOSITIONS, METHODS OF MANUFACTURING, AND METHODS OF TREATMENT. On December 18, 2020 the Company disclosed that it had entered into a Master Services Agreement with CSTI to lead the Company's clinical development efforts. The Company is headquartered in Wappingers Falls, New York. In addition, the Company operates two full time E-Commerce fulfillment centers: one located in Montgomery, Texas and the other in Brooklyn, New York.

DISCLAIMER -- Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains certain forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 which represent managements beliefs and assumptions concerning future events. These forward-looking statements are often indicated by using words such as may, will, expects, anticipates, believes, hopes, believes, or plans, and may include statements regarding corporate objectives as well as the attainment of certain corporate goals and milestones. Forward-looking statements are based on present circumstances and on managements present beliefs with respect to events that have not occurred, that may not occur, or that may occur with different consequences or timing than those now assumed or anticipated. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed in forward looking statements due to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, such as are not guarantees of general economic and business conditions, the ability to successfully develop and market products, consumer and business consumption habits, the ability to consummate successful acquisition and licensing transactions, fluctuations in exchange rates, and other factors over which Tauriga has little or no control. Many of these risks and uncertainties are discussed in greater detail in the Risk Factors section of Taurigas Form 10-K and other periodic filings made from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Such forward-looking statements are made only as of the date of this release, and Tauriga assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Contact: Tauriga Sciences, Inc. 4 Nancy Court, Suite 4 Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 Chief Executive Officer Mr. Seth M. Shaw Email: sshaw@tauriga.com cell # (917) 796 9926 Company Instagram: @taurigum Personal Instagram: @sethsms47 Twitter: @SethMShaw Corp. Website: www.tauriga.com E-Commerce Website: www.taurigum.com Attachment May 27th PR Image



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[May 27, 2021] United Health Foundation Launches $3 Million Partnership with CAMBA, Inc. to Improve Access to Prenatal Care for Brooklyn's Most Vulnerable Residents

The United Health Foundation, the philanthropic foundation of UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH), has launched a three-year $3 million partnership with CAMBA, Inc. to help improve access to prenatal care for underserved and homeless women in Brooklyn. CAMBA, a nonprofit organization that provides holistic social services to New Yorkers in need, will partner with the foundation to reduce maternal and infant morbidity rates, and improve health outcomes among the city's most vulnerable residents. According to America's Health Rankings' latest Health of Women and Children Data 2020 Update, New York ranks 30th for women receiving adequate prenatal care. The state also ranks 21st for women with access to a dedicated quality health care provider. "Expectant mothers in New York's underserved communities often lack access to prenatal and postpartum care, which is essential to treat their distinct health needs," said Dr. Joseph Chiarella, chief medical officer, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of New York. "Our partnership with CAMBA will help expand access to care and address health disparities by adapting maternal care delivery to meet patients where they are." As part of the new partnership, CAMBA will deploy Community Health Workers (CHWs) to approximately 500 underserved women a year in two family shelters and nine public housing developments in Brooklyn. The CHWs will conduct screenings and health assessments; provide educational workshops; and offer referrals to supportive food and nutrition, breastfeeding, mental health, housing and newborn care services. Funding will also go toward staffing, birth and postpartumdoula support and the purchase of mobile medical vans.



"We are grateful to the United Health Foundation for its partnership and generous support of this important initiative," said Claire Harding-Keefe, executive vice president, Homeless and Family Services at CAMBA, Inc. "Together, we will better meet women's critical health needs during and after pregnancy, reduce health disparities and improve maternal and infant health outcomes among many of New York City's most vulnerable residents." UnitedHealth Group and the United Health Foundation have made significant philanthropic and community investments in New York in recent years, including a $1 million contribution to provide urgent assistance to New York residents experiencing homelessness and food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic and $1.3 million in Empowering Health grants to 14 community-based organizations across the state to expand access to care and address residents' social determinants of health. Further, UnitedHealth Group is proud to serve nearly 3.9 million individuals in New York and deliver care through its 36 urgent care centers, ambulatory surgery centers and other facilities across the state.

UnitedHealth Group is committed to improving the health of mothers and newborns, raising awareness for improved maternal health, and reducing the occurrence of avoidable maternal and infant morbidity and mortality. To date, UnitedHealth Group has provided more than $8 million in philanthropic grants to support maternal health. UnitedHealthcare's Healthy Pregnancy and Maternity Support programs provide resources and services to help expectant mothers get the most out of their benefits, make informed decisions, and promote dialogue with care providers. The company is also actively addressing disparities in maternal health outcomes by providing coursework in partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morehouse School of Medicine, and the March of Dimes. About UnitedHealth Group UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) is a diversified health care company dedicated to helping people live healthier lives and helping to make the health system work better for everyone. UnitedHealth Group offers a broad spectrum of products and services through two distinct platforms: UnitedHealthcare, which provides health care coverage and benefits services; and Optum, which provides information and technology-enabled health services. For more information, visit UnitedHealth Group at www.unitedhealthgroup.com or follow @UnitedHealthGrp on Twitter (News - Alert) . View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005172/en/

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[May 27, 2021] University of Phoenix earns recognition for Online Education Leadership for Hallmarks of Excellence set by UPCEA

University of Phoenix earned recognition in the Hallmarks of Excellence in Online Education Leadership set by the University Professional and Continuing Education Association (UPCEA). The determination by UPCEA followed an intensive six-month comprehensive review program, which included an evaluation of the University's online enterprise and interviews with its faculty, staff, and administration by a review team of experts in distance education. "Over the past four years of new ownership and academic leadership, University of Phoenix has emphasized curricular quality and faculty development that has resulted in remarkable improvements," said Ray Schroeder, senior fellow for UPCEA and professor emeritus/associate vice chancellor for online learning, University of Illinois-Springfield. "Implementing the best practices that are represented in the Hallmarks of Excellence in Online Leadership, the university is focused on initiatives that serve students well; challenges faculty to engage in excellence in both their teaching and scholarship; and engages the larger academic community through research, publications and presentations." University of Phoenix has been offering online education programs since 1989. As a pioneer and leader in the online education sector, the University meets or exceeds the rigorous Hallmarks of Excellence set by UPCEA, the association for professional, continuing, and online education which serves more than 450 member institutions and organizations. Founded i 1915, UPCEA has served most of the leading public and private colleges and universities in North America. The association serves its members with innovative conferences and specialty seminars, research and benchmarking information, professional networking opportunities and timely publications. Based in Washington, D.C., UPCEA also builds greater awareness of the vital link between contemporary learners and public policy issues.



"While we are proud to meet the rigorous standards required of university online enterprises across all education sectors, we hold ourselves to even higher standards of continuous institutional improvement," said Peter Cohen, president of University of Phoenix. "This recognition is another milestone in our long history of excellence in online education, but we're not stopping there. The University is constantly innovating to ensure our online enterprise is positioned to provide the highest quality student outcomes and experience." About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix is continually innovating to help working adults enhance their careers in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses and interactive learning help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. We serve a diverse student population, offering online degree programs across the U.S. For more information, visit phoenix.edu. About UPCEA UPCEA is the association for professional, continuing, and online education. Founded in 1915, UPCEA now serves the leading public and private colleges and universities in North America. The association supports its members with innovative conferences and specialty seminars, research and benchmarking information, professional networking opportunities and timely publications. Based in Washington, D.C., UPCEA builds greater awareness of the vital link between adult learners and public policy issues. Learn more at upcea.edu. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005301/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Xylem Equips Iowa's Alliant Energy for Rapid Response to Devastating Windstorm

When an energy utility serves nearly one million customers across a large Midwest service territory, they need to prepare for whatever Mother Nature has in store. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005289/en/ The Midwest derecho knocked out power to 260,000 homes and businesses in Iowa last August. Alliant Energy (News - Alert) used Sensus technology to help restore power for the majority of customers in just a few days. (Photo: Business Wire) Alliant Energy faced one of the biggest outages in their 40-year history when a derecho-a powerful, widespread windstorm-moved across their service territory last August and knocked out power for 260,000 customers in Iowa. The storm caused $11 billion in damage to homes and businesses throughout Iowa and neighboring states. After the winds passed, Alliant Energy quickly sprang into action. They used near real-time data from their smart utility network from Sensus, a Xylem brand, to make informed decisions swiftly and restore power for the majority of customers in just afew days.



"It was all-hands-on-deck to get power restored as quickly as possible," said Randy Bauer, Alliant Energy's director of operational resources. "Thankfully, the technology investments we made previously helped provide a roadmap for where we needed to go and what we needed to do." The utility teams' forward thinking is both a powerful example of the importance of planning ahead and a primer on how to best capitalize on scalable technology. In 2019, they deployed smart infrastructure to provide remote management capabilities that could aid in outage restoration. Their deployment included more than 490,000 Stratus residential electricity meters and the Sensus FlexNet communication network, a reliable, two-way system that enables near real-time meter data monitoring.

As the intense winds from the 2020 derecho began to die down, an Alliant team used data from their smart network to execute the outage management and restoration process. Dedicated crews continued working through the harder-hit areas, and power became available to all customers within 16 days. Between storms, they put their technology to work for meter mapping to prepare for the next adverse event. The utility was using geographic information system (GIS) mapping to help understand the topography of their service area, but they found inconsistency in the data. This led them to conduct a pilot program with the Sensus phase detection application across 600 electricity meters in the town of DeWitt, Iowa. This extension of the utility's smart network proved capable of detecting the correct phase with 100% accuracy. The Alliant team was so impressed with the results of the pilot program that they plan to extend the capability across their entire service area. Regardless of where Alliant Energy goes next, the utility team has accurate, reliable data to address future challenges. "The data we receive helps us better understand what's happening in our service territory," said Bauer. "That allows us to make faster, more informed decisions, and we expect that to benefit our customers for years to come." Read the case study to learn more about how Alliant Energy is extending the value of their smart utility network investment. About Sensus Sensus, a Xylem brand, provides remotely-managed products and solutions that deliver the right data at the right time for investor-owned utilities, cooperatives and municipalities. As part of Xylem's digital portfolio, our smart devices connect with a variety of communication technologies to help customers make timely decisions that optimize electric, gas and water systems. Learn more at sensus.com. About Xylem Xylem (XYL) is a leading global water technology company committed to solving critical water and infrastructure challenges with innovation. Our more than 16,000 diverse employees delivered revenue of $4.88 billion in 2020. We are creating a more sustainable world by enabling our customers to optimize water and resource management, and helping communities in more than 150 countries become water-secure. Join us at www.xylem.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005289/en/

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KBRA Releases Research - China's Balance Sheet Risks: Liabilities

Kroll Bond Rating Agency (KBRA) releases the second report in a two-part series on China's balance sheet risks to global credit markets. In KBRA's view, the liability side of China's balance sheet shows high indirect risks due to the level of nonproductive debt in the country, although direct risks to international creditors remain largely contained because of low nonresident debt holdings.

In Part 1, which focuses on the asset side of the balance sheet ledger, we discuss China's role as the world's largest international creditor country, its wider lending practices through the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) project which include "muscular" lending contracts, expensive conditions, as well as strategic investments that heighten global and creditor-specific risks.

Key Takeaways

China's economy resembles an advanced economy more than an emerging markets (EM) economy in its debt load and composition, but not in terms of debt sustainability.

China's level of debt distress is graver than headline defaults suggest.

Global direct risks are contained by moderate holdings of Chinese bonds by nonresident investors, amounting to about 3% of total Chinese government bond issuance, although this is set to change with the inclusion of these securities in global bond indices.

Click here to view the report.







Related Publications

Access for free at www.kbra.com

About KBRA

KBRA is a full-service credit rating agency registered in the U.S., the EU and the UK, and is designated to provide structured finance ratings in Canada. KBRA's ratings can be used by investors for regulatory capital purposes in multiple jurisdictions.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210526006076/en/
[May 26, 2021] Datable Technology Announces Financial Results for Q1 2021 and Update for Year-to-Date 2021

VANCOUVER, BC, May 26, 2021 /CNW/ - Datable Technology Corp. (TSXV: DAC) (OTCQB: TTMZF) (the "Company" or "Datable" or "DTC"), a software company that provides a marketing automation platform called PLATFORM3 to global consumer brands, is pleased to announce its financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 ("Q1 2021"). For the three months ended March 31, 2021, the Company achieved the following milestones: Signed 9 agreements to provide PLATFORM3 to leading consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies, which increased the total contracted revenue for 2021 and future periods to over $3.6 million , compared to 12 agreements and approximately $2.1 million in same period in 2020. Total contracted revenue includes agreements signed in the year and multi-year agreements carried forward from prior years. Revenue increased by 45% to $674,557 compared to $465,643 in the same period in 2020 due to increases in average contract value, project deliveries and transactional revenue from both new and returning customers. Deferred revenue increased by 18% to $1,852,111 compared to $1,568,508 in the same period in 2020. Deferred revenue accounts for services that have been contracted and paid for by customers that will be delivered and recognized as revenues in subsequent periods. Continued development of flexxi Rewards Network - a web portal that enables opt-in consumers to earn rewards completing activities such as purchasing consumer products, viewing valuable content posted by consumer brands, sharing content on social media and referring friends. Leading consumer goods companies will pay Datable for access to the consumers. The flexxi Rewards Network is built using Datable's PLATFORM technology. The Company is also pleased to provide the following 2021 updates: Datable now has approximately $4.64 million in contracted revenue for 2021 and future periods, of which over $4 million is expected to be recognized as revenue in 2021. The expected recognized revenue of $4 million in 2021 is already equal to revenue growth of over 100% compared with 2020 with seven months left in 2021 to further increase revenue. Datable expects gross margin to be approximately 55 per cent in 2021. As recently announced (see press release dated April 26, 2021 ), Datable grew revenue by 26 per cent to approximately $1.97 million for the year ended Dec. 31, 2020 , compared with the same period in 2019, with gross margins of 59 per cent. Most of Datable's large customers are leading CPG companies that provide staples including food, beverages, and household products, which are expected to remain in demand during the COVID 19 crisis. In addition, many of Datable's license agreements and marketing programs extend into late 2021 for the summer and back-to-school promotions, and into 2022 as long-term loyalty programs. Raised gross proceeds of $3,417,000 pursuant to an offering of units (see press release dated March 29, 2021 ) and an offering of convertible debentures (see press release dated April 22, 2021 ) providing capital to accelerate growth. Uplisted from the OTC Pink Sheets to the OTCQB Venture Market debentures (see press release dated April 22, 2021 ) with the goal of enhancing liquidity and access to institutional and retail investors. "2020 was a breakthrough year for Datable, as a growing number of our CPG customers up-sized the scope and scale of marketing programs hosted on PLATFORM3 our SaaS digital marketing Platform. Our customers include multiple Fortune 500 companies that have large and growing budgets fordigital marketing, and we are getting a larger share as we continue delivering measurable ROI by adding tools that enable the use of opt-in consumer data to drive incremental revenues," said Robert Craig, Datable's CEO. "With the recent funding we are adding senior salespeople and project managers to increase our customer base of CPG companies and to explore develop business development in other sectors such as financial services. We had a record year in 2020 despite the COVID 19 pandemic and expect growth to accelerate as the world and consumers open up later in 2021 and into 2022."



Results of Operations: Revenue for three months ended March 31, 2021 increased by 45% to $674,557 compared with $465,643 for the same period in 2020 due to overall increase in average contract value, project deliveries and transactional revenues compared to the same period in 2020. The Company's PLATFORM product is an integrated suite of digital marketing applications sold as SaaS for short-term promotions or on an annual subscription basis with recurring revenues. Revenue in the current year reflected recognition of revenue from previous year contracts and new sales of the PLATFORM product offering.

The growth in contracted revenues in 2020 that continued in 2021 was due to larger renewals and new licenses driven by improvements in PLATFORM, and an established track record of delivering ROI to customers. In late 2019, DTC launched version 4.0 of PLATFORM which included new modules that extended and deepened its differentiation in the market by launching a break-through feature on PLATFORM - Dynamic Messaging and Rewards (DMR). This feature empowers brands to deploy omnichannel communications, retargeting and contextual rewards to induce consumer purchases based on their previous and ongoing purchase behavior and brand engagement. DMR transforms PLATFORM3 into a self-regulating continuous feedback loop for ongoing sales. Gross profit for the three months ended March 31, 2021 increased by 15% to $357,111 compared to $310,529 in same period in 2020. The Company's cost of sales for the three months ended March 31, 2021 increased by over 100% to $317,446 compared to $155,114 in same period in 2020 mostly due to the increase in revenue. Gross margin as a percentage of revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2021 was 53% compared to 67% for the same period in 2020. Gross margin depends on the product mix for the reporting period. Revenues are comprised of a combination of higher margin sales of PLATFORM, the Company's proprietary Software-as-a-Service product, combined with some lower margin products and services. While Datable expects strong revenue growth of high-margin PLATFORM licenses, revenues from lower-margin services and rewards products are expected to grow faster, which will reduce consolidated gross margin to as a percentage of revenue. Cost of sales includes an API connection to third party digital rewards platforms. This service enables DTC clients to offer digital rewards such as gift cards, movie tickets and virtual visas to incentivize purchase and purchase frequency. DTC purchases these rewards on behalf of the Company's clients and charges a transaction fee for the total amount of rewards purchased. Cost of sales also includes the cost of servers to host PLATFORM, and project management and customer support staff. General and administrative expense for the three months ended March 31, 2021 increased by 21% to $302,273 compared to $249,683 in the same period in 2020. The increase for the three months ended March 31, 2021 was mainly due to an increase in corporate consultancy fees and corporate finance service contracts engaged and being delivered in 2021 compared to the prior year. Sales and marketing expense include wages and salaries, consulting fees, travel expenses, and advertising and licenses. Sales and marketing expense for the three months ended March 31, 2021 was $186,794 compared to $170,523 in the same period in 2020. The increase for the three months ended in March 31, 2021 was mainly due to increased staff resources and consultancy paid in connection with advertising, sales and marketing activities. Research and development expenditure for the three months ended March 31, 2021 was $309,255 compared to $214,473 in the same period in 2020. The increase in research and development expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2021 was related to enhancement to PLATFORM and developing platform flexxi Rewards Network. Research and development expenses may continue to increase in the future as the Company seeks to evolve and improve PLATFORM and flexxi, as well as to invest in creating new technology and products that will enhance the Company's value proposition to customers and provide additional revenues. Research and development expenses include wages and salaries and consulting fees. Net and comprehensive loss for the three months ended March 31, 2021 was $905,017 compared to $520,376 in the same period in 2020. This increase in net loss for the three months ended March 31, 2021 was mainly due to the increase of share-based compensation, cost of sales and research and development expenses, net of the growth in revenue. About Datable Technology Corporation Datable has developed a proprietary, mobile-based consumer marketing platform  PLATFORM3  that is sold to global Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) companies and consumer brands. PLATFORM3 is delivered as a subscription service (Software as a Service model) and used by CPG companies to engage consumers, reward purchases and collect valuable consumer data. PLATFORM3 incorporates proprietary technology to monetize the consumer data, including demographics and purchasing behaviour, by sending consumers targeted offers by email and text messages. For more information, visit datablecorp.com. For additional information about the company please visit www.sedar.com. The TSX Venture Exchange Inc. has in no way passed upon the merits of the transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release. 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, which involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual events to differ materially from current expectation. Important factors  including the availability of funds and the results of financing efforts,  that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations are disclosed in the Company's documents filed from time to time on SEDAR (see www.sedar.com). Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation, except to the extent required by law, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. SOURCE Datable Technology Corp.

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[May 26, 2021] Launching of Party-building Roguelike Adventure Game "Vivid Knight" Steam Release, on May 27th, 2021

TOKYO, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Asobism Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan; CEO: Tomohisa Ote) announces the launch of their first title for Steam, "Vivid Knight," available on Steam from May 27th (Thu), 2021. Asobism, developer and provider of popular smartphone games "Castle & Dragon" and "Dragon Poker," announces the launch of its first title for Steam, "Vivid Knight," available on Steam as of today, May 27th (Thu), 2021. Gather together allies with unique skills to enjoy some fun and authentic dungeon battles. "Vivid Knight" Official Website

https://www.asobism.co.jp/vividknight/ "Vivid Knight" Steam Store Page

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1569090/Vivid_Knight "Vivid Knight" Promotional Video

https://www.asobism.co.jp/vividknight/video/vivid_ko.mp4



Party-building Roguelike Adventure Game "Vivid Knight" The first title created for Steam by Asobism, developer and provider of popular smartphone games "Castle & Dragon" and "Dragon Poker." The key to this roguelike game is to find the knights who have been trapped inside jewels by the Black Witch, then add them to your party to harness all their skills, so you can be ready to fight back.

Story Background A small kingdom surrounded by a beautiful land. The main character, Amelie, is a highly-spirited princess who sneaks out of the castle every day to visit the White Manor, where she immerses herself in the study of jewel sorcery. One day, Amelie returns to the castle as usual to discover that all the people in the kingdom have been turned into jewels and taken by the Black Witch. Amelie descends into the underground labyrinth, where the witch and her monsters lie in wait. Will she be able to rescue the king and the people of the kingdom? Game Information

Title: Vivid Knight

Steam Store: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1569090/Vivid_Knight/

Genre: A party-building Roguelike adventure/strategy

Platform: Steam

Release Date: expected on May 27th, 2021

Price: Regular Edition - $14.99, Soundtrack Edition (Game + Original Soundtrack) - $21.98

Supported OS: Windows 7, 64bit or above

Number of Players: 1

Official Website: https://www.asobism.co.jp/vividknight

Official Twitter account: https://twitter.com/VividKnight_O

Copyright:  2021 Asobism Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Company Information

Company Name: Asobism Co., Ltd.

CEO: Tomohisa Ote

Capital: 10,000,000

Founded: December 6th, 2005

Address: 4th floor, Shin-Tokyo Building, 3-3-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0005, Japan

URL: https://www.asobism.co.jp/

Business: games design and development; design, development, and management of partner sites; games consulting. PressKit

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1T7eJpx_v4HVbZ9xCxdQmZE_rLEX73_F0?usp=sharing SOURCE Asobism

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[May 26, 2021] AIZEN 'CreditConnect' vitalizes lending services

SEOUL, South Korea, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Many Vietnamese companies are using 'CreditConnect', AIZEN's Banking-as-a-Service to provide lending services. Connecting with finances, the 'CreditConnect' helps non-financial companies such as shopping centers, education institutions or hospitals to provide lending services to their customers and secure loyal customers. With this approach, non-financial companies can easily and quickly provide financial products to their customers, and with the timely lending services, the customers have increased their purchase rate. Currently, in Vietnam, IVY School, SAS, Lan anh Electric bicycle, Fitness, Bepvang school, Weset English customers are actually using 'CreditConnect' and enjoy the convenient service to make purchases.



AIZEN, the artificial intelligence finance company has been recognized as the FinTech company leading Asian AI Finance market. So far, it has won 2nd place in the 'Global' category of 'Singapore FinTech Award', 1st place in 'Hong Kong FinTech Work', nominated by 'Singapore Plug and Play', nominated by Hong Kong SC Bank Top 10 FinTech'. With the launch of 'CreditConnect', they are expanding the AI banking model in South-east Asia including Vietnam, Indonesia and Singapore. 'CreditConnect' intuitively connects their financial services with companies that have loyal customers. They provide lending services required for the credit cycle such as customer assessment, high approval rate, risk management-based lending service, so the customers can receive faster lending service.

SC bank, Citi bank, Volkswagen financial, IBM, SAP and many other global financial companies, as well as professional IT specialists, form AIZEN to provide the optimal service for both finance and technology. AIZEN's 'CreditConnect' is expanding its partnership platforms such as E-wallet, hospitals, education institutions, E-commerce and advancing to be the leading model of AI financial services. AIZEN's Managing Director of Vietnam Mr. Hai Minh stated that "We aim to supply lending services to the growing Vietnamese companies so that they can secure customers and improve their lending services". Also, the Vice-president of AIZEN Global, Mr. Sung-Joon Cho said that "CreditConnect will 'connect' with the financial situations customized for the clients of Vietnamese companies and evolve as an open 'credit platform'". www.aizenglobal.com SOURCE aizenglobal

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[May 26, 2021] Neteera makes annual CNBC Disruptor 50 list second year running

JERUSALEM, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Neteera, global leader in contactless vital signs sensing, has been named for the second year running to the CNBC Disruptor 50, an annual list of private venture-backed companies transforming the economy and the way we live. Over 1,500 nominees contended for the prestigious award this year. The Jerusalem-based startup developed a first-of-its-kind solution to monitor human physiological parameters. The Neteera microsensor presents a contact-free, hands-free, cable-free, and disposables-free approach to safely facilitate rapid and accurate detection of vital signs and biodata in real time, while providing historical data, thereby safeguarding and improving lives. The technology is suitable for the home as well as hospitas and care facilities and Neteera is enabling personalized care worldwide through advanced health management.



Seamless and continuous patient monitoring, with no patient involvement is a long sought-after solution that will significantly simplify understanding of patient status, improve prognosis, and reduce patient stress levels and cost. Neteera's technology is based on a combination of proprietary micro-radar on chip, algorithms, artificial intelligence, and cloud. There are no cameras and all information obtained is anonymized, providing ultimate privacy. Isaac Litman, Founder and CEO of Neteera said: "Our naming for the second year in a row to CNBC Disruptor 50 is a clear indication of Neteera's potential to change healthcare as we know it. Healthcare is rapidly redefining itself and we are proud to be spearheading the drive for safety, comfort, quality and equality of care for all. As one of our customers put it: 'Neteera should be a part of every clinical care end point, from hospitals, to clinics to home'".

ABOUT NETEERA TECHNOLOGIES Neteera is a Jerusalem-based hi-tech company with a vision to make healthcare available to all, regardless of how much they are paying for their health coverage. Neteera facilitates healthcare provision from home, hospital or care facilities, supports caregivers by providing a safer work environment, and saves healthcare systems money & resources in patient care, thereby improving and saving lives. Further information:

www.neteera.com

pr@neteera.com SOURCE Neteera Technologies Ltd.

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[May 26, 2021] Blue Prism Launches Version 7 - the Next Generation of Intelligent Automation

SINGAPORE, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Blue Prism (AIM: PRSM) announced today the launch of its new intelligent automation platform; radically changing the way human workers, digital workers and business systems work together to resolve complex challenges, regardless of infrastructure. This announcement was made at Blue Prism World, a world leading robotic process automation (RPA) event. Intelligent automation is the enabler of true digital transformation and of facilitating a rework of core strategic business initiatives. Blue Prism's future vision is focused on helping organizations respond faster and work smarter by orchestrating the work of human employees seamlessly alongside software robots to increase productivity, employee engagement, growth and competitive edge. With Version 7, Blue Prism has re-architected its platform. These changes support enterprises of the future as they achieve success and help to create businesses that can rely on the speed and agility offered by automation as well as the creativity, innovation and one-to-one attention of human employees. "As we continue to refine Blue Prism offerings and define a new tier of intelligent enterprise automation technology, we have prioritized investment in product development. The release of eight new products followed by the major platform release of Version 7, takes us towards programmable infrastructure, with enhanced cloud offerings and enterprise strategic automation at the core. Multi-tasking software robots that automatically scale and carry out end-to-end complex process automations move us away from current RPA definitions towards a greatly enhanced model of robot productivity. This, along with strategic business outputs and support for broader digitization and automation capabilities, is the path forward," says Chairman & CEO Jason Kingdon, Blue Prism. Easier application building and modelling capabilities in Blue Prism Version 7 give greater visibility and control, making automatic scaling of an end-to-end digital workforce faster than ever. As companies look to the future, the following competencies will give them the scope to orchestrate a future workforce that is agile and productive, able to avigate ever changing market conditions:



Greater Scalability: A new secure server-based digital worker architecture with faster Control Room performance, giving data at a glance, will make it easier to expand and orchestrate the digital workforce across end-to-end strategic automations.

A new secure server-based digital worker architecture with faster Control Room performance, giving data at a glance, will make it easier to expand and orchestrate the digital workforce across end-to-end strategic automations. Greater Extensibility: An expanded API framework allows organizations to extend digital worker capabilities with artificial intelligence, with direct plug-ins into the wider ecosystem and a vast choice of best-of-breed applications and technologies, making it easier to build complementary technology on top of Blue Prism.

An expanded API framework allows organizations to extend digital worker capabilities with artificial intelligence, with direct plug-ins into the wider ecosystem and a vast choice of best-of-breed applications and technologies, making it easier to build complementary technology on top of Blue Prism. Greater Usability: The new browser-based Control Room provides always-on, real-time visibility into a company's digital workforce from any device, anytime, anywhere. Operators can access intuitive dashboards and data views that give them valuable insights into digital worker performance, to address any issues immediately. Version 7 comes as part of a significant investment in Blue Prism's product portfolio, seeing the launch of eight new products including:

Blue Prism's Decipher  quickly and accurately extracts and organizes structured and semi-structured data from business documents.

 quickly and accurately extracts and organizes structured and semi-structured data from business documents. Blue Prism's Interact  simplifies and enhances customer communication by saving time and providing seamless human to digital workflows.

 simplifies and enhances customer communication by saving time and providing seamless human to digital workflows. Blue Prism's Capture  autogenerates all key components necessary to form a process definition document (PDD), giving instant access to Blue Prism process outlines and significantly reducing time to automate by up to 25%. With these product innovations, Blue Prism has made a commitment to help its customers achieve fast, scalable intelligent automations, enabling them to achieve true enterprise-wide digital transformation. An all-inclusive license means also that Blue Prism digital workers can be upgraded with further capabilities, adding significantly more value over time, at no extra cost. Now companies can easily double their digital worker capacity while delivering greater business agility, lower total cost of ownership (TCO) and faster path to value. "As RPA platforms extend capabilities, the use cases become far more expansive," says Maureen Fleming, program vice president for IDC's intelligent process automation research. "Pricing models that encourage all features to be exercised and all workers to build their own automation, allow organizations to get the full benefits of an RPA portfolio without worrying about the complicated cost nuances of what capabilities they're adopting and who is doing the development." Blue Prism Version 7 is available today for all Blue Prism customers. Notes to editors: Blue Prism is a global leader in enterprise robotic process automation (RPA) and intelligent automation, transforming the way work is done. We have customers in more than 2,000 organizations (of which 30% are Forbes Global 2,000 companies) in over 170 countries and 70 industry verticals: all creating value with new ways of working by unlocking efficiencies and returning millions of hours of work back into their businesses. Our enterprise digital robots offer high-scale automation that is secure, smart, robust and accessible to all; enabling centrally managed human and digital workforces of the future and freeing up humans to re-imagine work. To learn more visit www.blueprism.com and follow us on Twitter @blue_prism and on LinkedIn.  2021 Blue Prism Limited. "Blue Prism", the "Blue Prism" logo and Prism device are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Blue Prism Limited and its affiliates. All Rights Reserved. SOURCE Blue Prism

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 18:06:27|Editor: huaxia

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Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan (C) returns from where he planted a tree during an event in connection with the 10 Billion Tree Tsunami program in the country's northwest city of Haripur on May 27, 2021. Khan said on Thursday that his government is committed to addressing climate change issues to provide a better and secured future to the coming generations. "We remain dedicated to the cause and are trying to improve the environment in different ways," the prime minister said during an event in connection with the 10 Billion Tree Tsunami program in the country's northwest city of Haripur. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal)

ISLAMABAD, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Thursday that his government is committed to addressing climate change issues to provide a better and secured future to the coming generations.

"We remain dedicated to the cause and are trying to improve the environment in different ways," the prime minister said during an event in connection with the 10 Billion Tree Tsunami program in the country's northwest city of Haripur.

To address the challenges of climate change, the Pakistani government has initiated a series of projects including the 10 Billion Tree Tsunami, the establishment of national parks and the restoration of wetlands and wildlife. He said these projects will also provide job opportunities to the locals and contribute to the promotion of tourism in the country.

Expressing his concerns over the adverse impacts of climate change, Khan said Pakistan is unfortunately amongst the countries which are most vulnerable to climate change.

"The water in our rivers comes from glaciers. And if the rate at which they are melting continues, we will have to face many issues," he said. "So through our efforts, we are trying to slow down the impact of climate change."

"It is an acknowledgment of the fact that Pakistan is among a handful of countries trying to reduce the impact of climate change and global warming," he added. Enditem
[May 26, 2021]

SHAREHOLDER ALERT: CLAIMSFILER REMINDS EBS, GOEV, PTON, RMO, INVESTORS of Lead Plaintiff Deadline in Class Action Lawsuits

NEW ORLEANS, May 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors of pending deadlines in the following securities class action lawsuits:

Canoo Inc. (GOEV, GOEVW)

Class Period: 8/18/2020 - 3/29/2021

Lead Plaintiff Motion Deadline: June 1, 2021

SECURITIES FRAUD

To learn more, visit https://www.claimsfiler.com/cases/view-canoo-inc-securities-litigation

Romeo Power, Inc. (RMO) f/k/a RMG Acquisition Corp. (RMG)

Class Period: 10/5/2020 - 3/30/2021

Lead Plaintiff Motion Deadline: June 15, 2021

SECURITIES FRAUD

To learn more, visit https://www.claimsfiler.com/cases/view-romeo-power-inc-securities-litigation

Emergent BioSolutions Inc. (EBS)

Class Period: 4/24/2020 4/16/2021









Peloton Interactive, Inc. (PTON)

Class Period: 9/11/2020 - 5/5/2021

Lead Plaintiff Motion Deadline: June 28, 2021

SECURITIES FRAUD

To learn more, visit https://www.claimsfiler.com/cases/view-peloton-interactive-inc-class-a-common-stock-pton-securities-litigation

If you purchased shares of the above companies and would like to discuss your legal rights and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact us toll-free (844) 367-9658 or visit the case links above.

If you wish to serve as a Lead Plaintiff in the class action, you must petition the Court on or before the Lead Plaintiff Motion deadline.

About ClaimsFiler

ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations.

To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com
[May 26, 2021] UBIQUITI SHAREHOLDER ALERT: CLAIMSFILER REMINDS INVESTORS WITH LOSSES IN EXCESS OF $100,000 of Lead Plaintiff Deadline in Class Action Lawsuit Against Ubiquiti Inc. - UI

NEW ORLEANS, May 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until July 19, 2021 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Ubiquiti Inc. (NYSE: UI), if they purchased the Companys shares between January 11, 2021 and March 30, 2021, inclusive (the Class Period). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.

Get Help Ubiquiti investors should visit us at https://www.claimsfiler.com/cases/view-ubiquiti-inc-securities-litigation or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options. About the Lawsuit Ubquiti and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.



On March 30, 2021, post-market, Krebs on Security reported that the Companys January 2021 data breach was catastrophic, and more extensive than portrayed by the Company, wherein the attacker(s) accessed privileged credentials that were previously stored in the LastPass account of a Ubiquiti IT employee, and gained root administrator access to all Ubiquiti AWS [Amazon Web Services] accounts, including all S3 data buckets, all application logs, all databases, all user database credentials, and secrets required to forge single sign-on (SSO) cookies. On this news, shares of Ubiquiti fell $50.70, or 14.5%, to close at $298.30 per share on March 31, 2021, on unusually heavy trading volume.

The case is Molder v. Ubiquiti Inc., et al., No. 1:21-cv-04520. About ClaimsFiler ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations. To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com.



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[May 26, 2021] Anycubic launches several new 3D printers at TCT Show

SHENZHEN, China, May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Anycubic, a leading 3D printer brand, is showcasing a rich lineup of new solutions and products at TCT Show (Booth: C40), including the Anycubic Cloud platform-based Photon Mono X Pro, the Digital Light Processing (DLP)-based Photon Ultra and the upcoming FDM 3D printer Vyper. With the release of these new offerings, Anycubic once again leads the way in the desktop light curing 3D printer market in terms of technological innovation and user experience. "Over the past few years, Anycubic has maintained rapid growth with a continued commitment to in-house research and development of key 3D printing technologies, making it a pioneer and leader in the desktop 3D printer sector. The release of the three new disruptive products is a testament to the company's extensive industry experience and technological competence," said James Ouyang, vice president of R&D at Anycubic. "The three new printers have expanded the horizons of the 3D printing equipment market while widening the application of 3D printing technologies." Mobile phones and 3D printers have a shared need for intelligence. The newly released Anycubic Cloud platform-based light curing solution comes with a number of key features, including model library, cloud slicing, cloud printing, file transmission, remote monitoring, equipment management and online upgrade. Based on taking a comprehensive approac to intelligence, the new solution lowers the threshold for 3D printing while simplifying the printing process. The Anycubic Cloud platform-based Photon Mono X Pro redefines the light curing 3D printing experience by virtue of a 64-bit high-performance mainboard, which delivers a much superior performance than conventional light curing 3D printers in terms of computing and graphics processing capabilities.





During the launch event, Anycubic also rolled out Photon Ultra, launched with Texas Instruments, a global semiconductor design & manufacturing company ranking among the Top10 list in its industry and the "Top 500 Companies in the world" for many years. Photon Ultra is a brand-new 3D printer that uses DLP technology. The launch of the product reflects the company's aggressive efforts in developing new desktop 3D printers. "Photon Ultra boasts a UV light utilization rate of up to 95 per cent, far higher than the LCD series' mere 1 to 5 per cent. With DLP technology, the new 3D printer increases the efficiency threefold compared with rivals that deploy the SLA printing technology. By combining DLP technology with Anycubic's uniformly distributed and stable UV light source, Photon Ultra enables high precision and fast printing," Mr. Ouyang added. In addition, Anycubic released the 4Max Dual, a new concept-based FDM 3D printer with more advanced auto leveling design that eliminates the need to manually handle this tedious process and delivers an easy-to-use dual-nozzle printing solution to new users. The company also plans to roll out Vyper, a new FDM 3D printer with an intelligent leveling system that enables one-click leveling and printing by automatically leveling the hotbed. Vyper's printing platform utilizes a new process combining a special scratch-resistant coating with spring steel which resists deformation, even in high-temperature environments. The new user interface is easy to use and switches seamlessly between Chinese and English. Vyper offers a higher printing speed (up to 100 mm/s) than conventional 3D printers of the same quality. Anycubic, a pioneer in the light curing 3D printing sector, has maintained strong growth while gaining recognition among customers worldwide since 2015, when the firm exported its first 3D printer. Please visit Anycubic's booth (C40) at TCT Show to experience the world's most advanced and intelligent 3D printers. For more information, please visit https://www.anycubic.com/

Media Contact:

Carina, +86 16600287015 View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/anycubic-launches-several-new-3d-printers-at-tct-show-301300488.html SOURCE Anycubic

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[May 27, 2021] Santhera Publishes Agenda for its Annual General Meeting



Pratteln, Switzerland, May 27, 2021  Santhera Pharmaceuticals (SIX: SANN) announces the invitation to its Annual General Meeting (AGM), which will be held on June 22, 2021, at 10:30 hrs at the domicile of the Company. Invitation and agenda items for the AGM

The invitation and agenda items for the Annual General Meeting can be viewed on Santheras website at https://www.santhera.com/investors-and-media/investor-toolbox/share-bondholder-meetings. Selected agenda items: S hare capital increases

As previously announced, the Board of Directors (BoD) proposes various capital increases to Santheras shareholders at the forthcoming AGM. These should give the Company sufficient flexibility to raise additional capital to fund ongoing development activities, increase pre-commercialization activities and expand the organization in view of a US market launch of vamorolone in late 2022, subject to positive results of the pivotal VISION-DMD study. Specifically, the BoD proposes: Ordinary capital increase by CHF 11,236,489 by issuing 11,236,489 fully paid-in registered shares with a par value of CHF 1 each.

Increase of authorized capital by CHF 10,232,928 and its extension until June 21, 2023.

Increase of conditional capital for financings by CHF 649,285.

Increase of conditional capital for employee participation from CHF 2,537,052 by CHF 3,000,000 to CHF 5,537,052.

The figures above do not reflect any share issuances from authorized or conditional capital that have occurred or may occur before the AGM. If the ordinary capital increase can be ully consummated within three months from the date of the AGM, then in a second step, both the authorized capital and the conditional capital for financing would be increased again by CHF 5,618,244 each.



Elections

The BoD proposes the re-election of Elmar Schnee, Philipp Gutzwiller, Thomas Meier and Patrick Vink as members of the BoD until the end of the ordinary AGM 2022. Elmar Schnee is proposed for re-election as Chairman of the BoD.

Martin Gertsch, member of Santhera's Board of Directors since 2006, thereof as Chairman until 2017 and Vice-Chairman for the two subsequent years, will not stand for re-election. The BoD and Executive Committee sincerely thank Martin for his great commitment and valuable contributions and wish him only the best for the future. Additional motions submitted to the General Meeting include the following:

Approval of the annual financial statements and the consolidated financial statements 2020

Allocation of the annual result and reserves

Consultative vote on the Compensation Report 2020

Discharge of the members of the Board of Directors and the Executive Board for the 2020 financial year

Re-election of the members of the Compensation Committee

Approval of the compensation of the members of the Board of Directors

Approval of the compensation of the members of the Executive Board

Re-election of the auditors

Re-election of the independent proxy



COVID-19

Due to the extraordinary circumstances and in accordance with the applicable Covid-19 legislation, shareholders may exercise their rights at the AGM exclusively via the independent proxy. There is no possibility to attend the AGM in person. About Santhera

Santhera Pharmaceuticals (SIX: SANN) is a Swiss specialty pharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative medicines for rare neuromuscular and pulmonary diseases with high unmet medical need. Santhera has an exclusive license for all indications worldwide to vamorolone, a first-in-class dissociative steroid with novel mode of action, currently investigated in a pivotal study in patients with DMD as an alternative to standard corticosteroids. The clinical stage pipeline also includes lonodelestat (POL6014) to treat cystic fibrosis (CF) and other neutrophilic pulmonary diseases, as well as an exploratory gene therapy approach targeting congenital muscular dystrophies. Santhera out-licensed ex-North American rights to its first approved product, Raxone (idebenone), for the treatment of Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) to Chiesi Group. For further information, please visit www.santhera.com. Raxone is a trademark of Santhera Pharmaceuticals. For further information please contact:

public-relations@santhera.com or

Eva Kalias, Head External Communications

Phone: +41 79 875 27 80

eva.kalias@santhera.com Disclaimer / 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. # # # Attachment 2021 05 27_PR_AGM_e_final



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[May 27, 2021] Experian Partners With Microsoft to Help Global Businesses Prosper in a Data-Driven World

Experian have today announced a new partnership with Microsoft (News - Alert) which will help organisations globally make more informed, intelligent decisions with their data and deliver better outcomes for their customers. The partnership will support more organisations looking to improve the quality of their data, allowing them to use it more effectively and turn it into actionable insight. Organisations now have quick, efficient, and easy access to a range of Experian data solutions through Microsoft's AppSource and Azure Marketplace - the online application stores that provides a tailored catalogue of certified, cloud-based business solutions. The development comes at a time when the importance of cloud hosted solutions has been further emphasised by the Covid-19 pandemic and the acceleration of digital transformation projects. Business users globally can access Experian's Aperture Data Studio as well as real-time address, email and phone validation APIs through Microsoft Azure and Microsoft AppSource marketplaces. The availability of Aperture Data Studio in Azure Marketplace allows new and existing Microsoft Azure clients to access the product under a BYOL (bring your own license) model. Whilst Experian's real-time validation APIs can be seamlessly integrated into Microsoft's suite of business applications to help customers better manage the customer contact data entering their organisations. Financial service providers in the UK will also be able to take advantage of the latest innovations in open data, which can help their customers successfully manage their money. This is availablethrough Microsoft Azure.



Experian's Open Data Platform underpins more than 180 million API requests a month and is currently being used by over 200 organisations. The technology has allowed credit card and auto finance providers, rental property agencies, mortgage lenders and gaming companies to better assess whether services are affordable for their customers. Andrew Abraham, Managing Director of Experian's Global Data Quality division, said: "Having accurate, complete, valid and well managed data is essential for businesses to deliver better outcomes for their customers. The publication of Experian's suite of products provides access to the solutions that can really help them achieve this and unlock the many opportunities that data can bring."

Jake Zaborowski, General Manager, Microsoft Azure Platform at Microsoft Corp., said: "We're pleased to welcome Experian to the Microsoft Azure Marketplace, which gives our partners great exposure to cloud customers around the globe. Azure Marketplace offers world-class quality experiences from global trusted partners with solutions tested to work seamlessly with Azure." The marketplaces are the go-to for Microsoft customers worldwide to discover, evaluate, and request further information about certified solutions. Experian's presence on these platforms ensures that the company's data solutions fit seamlessly into Microsoft's ecosystem of business applications and further strengthens their status as a Microsoft Gold Partner. About Experian Experian is the world's leading global information services company. During life's big moments - from buying a home or a car, to sending a child to college, to growing a business by connecting with new customers - we empower consumers and our clients to manage their data with confidence. We help individuals to take financial control and access financial services, businesses to make smarter decisions and thrive, lenders to lend more responsibly, and organisations to prevent identity fraud and crime. We have 17,800 people operating across 44 countries and every day we're investing in new technologies, talented people and innovation to help all our clients maximise every opportunity. We are listed on the London Stock Exchange (EXPN) and are a constituent of the FTSE 100 Index. Learn more at www.experianplc.com or visit our global content hub at our global news blog for the latest news and insights from the Group. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210526006135/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Payvision study shows 44% of retail consumers won't change their "COVID-19 effect' buying habits

1- In 2020, cross-border B2C e-commerce in Europe totalled USD842 billion 2- E-commerce physical goods subscription transactions in Europe will exceed $51 billion in 2021 3- Mobile payment apps (OEM) usage rose from 26% before COVID-19 to 39% during the pandemic In a study conducted for Payvision in the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany, Kaleido Intelligence reports on how COVID-19 is influencing the retail landscape one year on. AMSTERDAM, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ --Global retail spending fell dramatically throughout the 2020 lockdown as governments asked virtually all non-grocery retailers to close. Consequently, 2020 saw the biggest decline in in-store sales over the last 25 years. However, this was partially offset by the surge in panic buying essential goods at the start of the lockdown restrictions. With lockdowns lifted, governments encouraged consumers to limit in-store shopping. This boosted global online sales by an annual growth of 9%. In Europe, online retail spends on physical and digital goods increased by USD116 billion in 2020 to reach a total of USD832 billion. E-commerce will continue to play a critical role and businesses will need to accommodate this. To retain a competitive edge, retailers have been investing in digital transformation: chatbots, voice assistants, and messaging apps etc. In 2020, conversational e-commerce grew by 171% and reached nearly USD60 billionin transaction value globally and is forecast to reach USD200 billion in 2022.



Ellerd Liem, Director POS and Payvision, comments: "The key to a truly customer-centric shopping journey is in integrating all your sale points onto a single platform. Convenience, personalization, and seamless checkout should be at the heart of your customer's experience  no matter whether they're in a physical store or online." International shipping and sales are a staple of future growth. Ultimately, this means competing with popular marketplaces and global retailers, so they'll need to meet consumer demand while offering fast delivery turnaround and specific payment methods for each market. OEM and invisible payment methods will eventually be expected alongside the traditional, as a 13% increase in the popularity of digital wallets for e-commerce has already been seen.

Ellerd Liem of Payvision explains: "Paying must be as easy and natural as possible. The customer should be able to checkout whenever is handy for them, at any point in the process. If they're not able to, this can lead to unnecessary friction, which means a risk that the customer could get frustrated and turn away from the brand." A way around it is enabling subscription purchasing, increasingly popular. Across Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands 35% of respondents stated that they had increased the number of online subscriptions. Subscription transactions in Europe will exceed $51billion in 2021 and are set to reach $84 billion in 2025. Payvision's findings are clear: it is time for retailers to adjust to the new post-pandemic climate, as 44% of consumers are convinced that their new buying habits will not change post-COVID-19. https://www.payvision.com/payment-insights/retail/top-5-trends-retail-payment/ About Payvision Payvision is driven by a passion for technology and simplifying payments. With one single, secure platform, we power transactions for businesses across the globe. We know our way around the latest techniques in artificial intelligence and omnichannel strategies. The dedication to our clients shows  this is where we truly make a difference. By enabling an intuitive and flawless customer experience on all channels, we bring a unique beat to payments. Founded in 2002, we're headquartered in Amsterdam, the Netherlands and since 2018 we are part of ING Group. This allows us to offer an unstoppable combo of both the fintech and banking worlds put together. This partnership means cutting-edge technology and a startup mindset backed by ING's expertise and global network. Learn more about how Payvision takes the hassle out of payments at payvision.com.

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[May 27, 2021] IFI Techsolutions Has Earned the Microsoft Windows Virtual Desktop Advanced Specialization

MUMBAI, India, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- IFI Techsolutions (www.ifi.tech), today announced it has earned the Microsoft Windows Virtual Desktop advanced specialization, a validation of a partner's deep knowledge, extensive experience and expertise in deploying, scaling and securing virtual desktop infrastructure on Azure. Only partners that meet stringent criteria around customer success and staff skilling, as well as pass a third-party audit of their Windows Virtual Desktop technical practices, are able to earn the Microsoft Windows Virtual Desktop advanced specialization. Supporting secure remote work for employees is more critical than ever. Windows Virtual Desktop is a Microsoft solution that seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft products and allows customers to implement virtual desktops in a scalable, secure, and cost-effective way. Partners with validated capabilities in implementing Windows Virtual Desktop can help customers deploy and navigate the licensing efficiencies it offers to deliver the solution that is most efficent for their organization.



Commenting on this recent achievement, Puneet Bajaj, Partner - IFI Techsolutions said, "IFI Tech was amongst the select few partners for early preview of Azure Windows Virtual Desktop (WVD) solution, and in June 2019 we completed our first WVD customer project. Thereafter, in March 2020 the WVD market exploded, with every organisation wanting to enable secure work-from-home. Our expertise helped us accomplish a challenging task to setup WVD for 4000+ employees of a top IT/ITES company within a matter of few weeks. Now, in the last few months we have on-boarded many global customers on WVD like Larsen & Toubro Infotech, Intermiles, GMS to name a few." Rodney Clark, Corporate Vice President, Global Partner Solutions, Channel Sales and Channel Chief at Microsoft added, "The Microsoft Windows Virtual Desktop advanced specialization highlights the?partners who can be?viewed as most capable when it comes to deploying Windows Virtual Desktop in Azure. IFI Techsolutions clearly demonstrated that they have both the skills and the experience to offer clients a path to transition to desktop-as-a-service in a scalable, secure, and cost-effective way."

More Details: https://azuremarketplace.microsoft.com/en-us/marketplace/consulting-services/ifitechsolutions.ifi-tech-wvd-implementation About IFI Techsolutions:s IFI Techsolutions (www.ifi.tech) is a leading cloud solutions and managed services provider that was recognized as a 2020 Microsoft Partner of the Year Finalist. Founded by Former Microsoft executives, IFI Techsolutions has delivered over 370 projects, 45,000 consulting hours, migrated 4,100-plus servers for more than 260 global customers and has presence in India, US, UK, Australia, and UAE. Also, IFI Techsolutions has earned Microsoft Azure Advanced Specializations on Windows Server and SQL Server Migration and Modernization of Web Applications. For More Details Contact:

Shravani Bhalerao

E: pr@ifi.tech

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[May 27, 2021] Johnson Controls Honored to be Named One of 100 Best Corporate Citizens of 2021 for 16th Year in a Row

CORK, Ireland, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Johnson Controls, the global leader for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, is honored to have been named a 100 Best Corporate Citizen for 2021. This marks the 16th year in a row Johnson Controls has been named a 100 Best Corporate Citizen, joining only 19 other companies who have been on the list each year since 2009. The company is proud for being recognized for leading environmental, social and governance (ESG) transparency and performance amongst the 1,000 largest U.S. public companies. George Oliver, chairman and CEO said, "We are honored to be recognized as a 100 Best Corporate Citizen 2021 for the milestones we achieve as a team, and the path we laid out for bold climate and social action to help push the envelope forward in demonstrating how we can contribute to a better planet. The next decade is crucial in our shift to a sustainable economy and with our global team of 100,000 employees we are firmly committed to building a world that's safe, comfortable and sustainable." As part of its environmental and sustainability commitments, Johnson Controls has committed to achieving net zero carbon before 2040, and announced science-based targets for 2030. It aims to slash its operational emissions by 55 percent and reduce customers' emissions by 16 percent in absolute terms before 2030. These ambitious reduction targets, which have been independently approved by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), are consistent with reductions required to keep warming to 1.5C,the most ambitious goal of the Paris Agreement.



"The next decade is crucial in our shift to a sustainable economy and with our global team of 100,000 employees we are firmly committed to building a world that's safe, comfortable and sustainable."  George Oliver, chairman and CEO, Johnson Controls As a leader in the buildings space for more than 135 years, Johnson Controls has been a pioneer in sustainability. It is ranked in the top 12 percent of climate leadership companies globally by CDP and was recently named to the inaugural Financial Times Climate Leaders in Europe List and again to the World's Most Ethical Companies Honoree List. Johnson Controls is also one of Corporate Knights' global 100 most Sustainable Companies.

The 100 Best Corporate Citizen for 2021 methodology considers 146 ESG factors across eight pillars (Climate Change; Employees; Environment; ESG Performance; Financial; Governance; Human Rights; Stakeholders and Society) and addresses key issues exposed during the pandemic and Black Lives Matter movement. "The next decade is pivotal if we are to achieve global climate and societal goals and rebuild an inclusive and resilient economy," said Dave Armon, CEO of 3BL Media, which owns the 100 Best Corporate Citizens ranking. "Achieving these transformational outcomes depends on corporate leadership and transparency on ESG topics." 3BL Media develops the 100 Best Corporate Citizens ranking in partnership with Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS) ESG. Once 3BL Media establishes its methodology, ISS ESG researches relevant data and processes the ranking. All data and information considered for the ranking is publicly available. To read more about Johnson Controls commitment to sustainability, please visit: https://www.johnsoncontrols.com/corporate-sustainability/environment The 100 Best Corporate Citizens of 2021 ranking and methodology is available at https://100best.3blmedia.com/ About Johnson Controls: At Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI) we transform the environments where people live, work, learn and play. As the global leader in smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, our mission is to reimagine the performance of buildings to serve people, places and the planet. With a history of more than 135 years of innovation, Johnson Controls delivers the blueprint of the future for industries such as healthcare, schools, data centers, airports, stadiums, manufacturing and beyond through its comprehensive digital offering OpenBlue. With a global team of 100,000 experts in more than 150 countries, Johnson Controls offers the world`s largest portfolio of building technology, software as well as service solutions with some of the most trusted names in the industry. For more information, visit www.johnsoncontrols.com or follow us at @johnsoncontrols on Twitter. SOURCE Johnson Controls

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[May 27, 2021] Indian data center sector to require $3.7 billion of investment by 2023 to meet demand: JLL

Expected to add 560 MW* capacity during 2021-23

Colocation data center industry is expected to reach 1,007 MW by 2023

Mumbai and Chennai are expected to drive 73% of the sector's total capacity addition during 2021-23, Hyderabad and Delhi NCR to emerge as new hotspots Note: MW*- indicates IT design power load MUMBAI, India, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- India's data center sector will require investment of $3.7 billion over the next three years in order to fulfill the 6 million sq. ft greenfield development opportunity for the industry, a JLL report titled '2020 India Data Center Market Update' stated. "India's colocation data center industry witnessed unprecedented absorption of 102 MW during 2020, notching higher absorption than most key markets of Europe and America. Fueled by longer-term trends of rising cloud adoption, increasing digitalisation and progressive legislation, we anticipate increased demand for colocation space nationwide. Rising demand led data center operators and developers to pursue ambitious expansion plans, while some adopted the acquisition route to enter Indian markets, which we expect to continue. Colo capacity grew by around 28% to reach 447 MW in 2020 from 350 MW in 2019," said Rachit Mohan, Head, Data Center Advisory (India), JLL. As the data centre landscape continues to evolve, the industry is expected to grow exponentially to reach 1,007 MW by 2023 from its existing capacity of 447 MW. With growing reliance on digital connectivity, demand is likely to ramp up further due to the imminent rollout of 5G rollout, IoT-linked devices, data localisation and cloud adoption. Mumbai and Chennai are expected to drie 73% of the sector's total capacity addition during 2021-23, while other cities like Hyderabad and Delhi NCR emerging as new hotspots.



Robust expansion by global cloud players in the established markets of Mumbai and Pune continues owing to prevailing infrastructure, while new markets like Hyderabad are gaining momentum in this space. "India's data center industry is expected to add 560 MW during 2021-23 leading to a real estate requirement of 6 mn sq ft. The supply addition will be complemented by densification of racks and servers, sustainable energy sourcing and use of indigenous resources. Rising demand is leading operators to pursue ambitious expansion plans, while some are adopting the acquisition route to enter Indian markets. Various policies and reforms brought in by the Government with an aim to turn India into a 'Global Data Hub' has provided necessary measures to achieve this goal," said Dr Samantak Das, Chief Economist and Head of Research & REIS (India), JLL.

The increasing usage of e-commerce, EdTech and digital transactions placed the existing IT infrastructure of enterprises under pressure. Overall data usage increased by 36% in 2020 due to increased usage of smartphones and fixed wireless access as per Nokia Mobile Broadband India Traffic Index 2021. Enterprises have been upgrading their IT infrastructure by adopting hybrid models, given their budget constraints. Technology trends like 5G rollout, IoT-linked devices and AI will also result in stronger growth in demand. According to JLL, the rapid growth of the data center industry has led to increasing energy consumption and environmental impact. Increasingly, global cloud players setting up bases in India aim to reduce their carbon footprint and are looking at data centers that provide sustainable energy alternatives and are entering renewable energy power contracts. India's renewable energy capacity at 90 gigawatts accounts for 25% share of the installed power capacity and provides tremendous scope for development of green data centers. About JLL JLL (NYSE: JLL) is a leading professional services firm that specializes in real estate and investment management. JLL shapes the future of real estate for a better world by using the most advanced technology to create rewarding opportunities, amazing spaces and sustainable real estate solutions for our clients, our people and our communities. JLL is a Fortune 500 company with annual revenue of $16.6 billion in 2020, operations in over 80 countries and a global workforce of more than 91,000 as of March 31, 2021. JLL is the brand name, and a registered trademark, of Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated. For further information, visit jll.com. In India, JLL has an extensive presence across 10 major cities (Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Pune, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Kochi and Coimbatore) and over 130 tier II & III markets with a cumulative strength of close to 12,000 professionals. Headquartered out of Mumbai, we are India's premier and largest professional services firm specializing in real estate. Our services cover various asset classes such as commercial, residential, industrial, retail, warehouse and logistics, hospitality, healthcare, senior living, data centre and education. For further information, please visit jll.co.in.

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[May 27, 2021] Checkout.com launches Southern Europe Hub amidst eCommerce boom

- Launch of Southern Europe headquarters in Barcelona, Spain adds to its existing Engineering Hub in Porto, Portugal - Checkout.com powers leading merchants including Glovo, Farfetch, Mango, Veepee, Fintonic, Blueground, XE.gr and Freshly Cosmetics - eCommerce penetration rate in Spain expected to grow 25% by 2024[1], demonstrating growth opportunities for local and global merchants LONDON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Checkout.com, a leading cloud payment provider, announced the launch of their Barcelona office to serve as a headquarters for operations across Southern European markets, including Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece. Europe is the home market for Checkout.com, which already serves as the payment provider for many of the region's leading eCommerce businesses like Mango, Farfetch, Glovo and Klarna. These merchants rely on Checkout.com for a fast and agile platform that drives better performance and increased acceptance rates. This announcement represents an even stronger commitment to Europe, as the company deepens its service to the region. The global COVID-19 crisis has accelerated the adoption of eCommerce across the region. Pre-Pandemic Southern Europe already demonstrated a material eCommerce opportunity with eCommerce adoption rates in Spain (58%), Italy (52%) and Greece (50%). Meanwhile, expectations are that penetration in future years will outpace other regions in Europe, as the level of eCommerce adoption still lags behind the UK's 82% and Germany's 71%. eCommerce penetration statistics clearly show a growing and underserved market. Checkout.com's continued investment in the region will support local enterprises with better performing online payments and improved digital checkout experiences as more consumers turn to online purchasing. Antoine Nougue, Head of Europe at Checkout.com, said: "'Think global, act local' is at the heart of our expansion proposition for global enterprises. ur local team across Southern Europe has deep insight and knowledge for those merchants wanting to expand and grow. We've witnessed explosive growth across the region, with more merchants investing in their eCommAerce strategies to serve an emerging online market segment."



Nougue continues: "The localisation of our proposition to the market removes payments as a barrier to scale for fast-growing online businesses, allowing them to unlock more revenue opportunities and serve customers a frictionless checkout experience." Florian Jensen, Global Fraud and Payments Director at Glovo, said: "As one of the world's leading multi-category delivery players, with millions of users across 20 markets worldwide, a localised proposition is imperative to our success. Checkout.com's global payments routing platform has enabled us to optimise our card processing in existing markets and expand into new territories with speed and ease. Their growth mindset and agile platform make them the perfect payments partner for a global scaling company like Glovo."

Expansion opportunities Southern European countries have seen rolling lockdowns and restrictions for more than a year. While many of these countries are seeing eased restrictions, eCommerce adoption is expected to continue accelerating, with growth projected at 17% to 153 million customers in the next three years. Spain is anticipated to have the highest growth rate, with 35 million customers turning to online services by 2024, representing a 25% increase -- on par with the highest growth markets, such as China. This growth is expected to equate to a 66% increase in eCommerce revenues hitting $28.7bn. Jonathan G. Rambal, General Director of Southern Europe at Checkout.com, said: "The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital payments across the region of Southern Europe, with an overnight digitalisation for some enterprises and an acceleration for others. Checkout.com 's growing presence in the region serves to support enterprise merchants through this digital transformation, with a best in class payment platform and on-the-ground market experts to reach new domestic and international customers ." Apostolos Foteinakis, Chief Financial Officer at Blueground, said: "As a global proptech startup with customers spread across 15 cities worldwide, we rely on the support of strategic technology partners like Checkout.com. Their flexible, global payments platform aligns perfectly with our business model  enabling people to flexibly live wherever they choose to across our thousands of quality, turnkey homes. Through a single integration and with a range of interfaces, we've been able to create a simple payment experience for our customers, anywhere, anytime. The expert support we have received so far, especially in complex regions such as MENA, demonstrates that Checkout.com is the right strategic partner to support growing businesses." Checkout.com has a team of more than 1,100 people globally and 20 employees across its Porto and Barcelona offices and expects to double over the next 12 months in the Southern European region. For more information about Checkout.com's services in Southern Europe, please email sales.southeu@checkout.com. About Checkout.com: Checkout.com empowers businesses to adapt and innovate. The company's technology makes payments seamless. Flexible solutions, granular data, and instant insights help global enterprises launch new products in new markets and create outstanding customer experiences. Checkout.com provides the fastest, most reliable payments in more than 150 currencies, with in-country acquiring, world-class fraud filters and reporting through one API. Checkout.com can accept all major international credit and debit cards, as well as popular alternative and local payment methods. The company launched in 2012 and now has a team of over 1,100 people across 18 offices worldwide, offering local expertise where it's needed. Find out more at www.checkout.com . 1, Source: Statista Digital Market Outlook 2020

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 18:15:36|Editor: huaxia

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-- As a national strategy, the integrated development of the Yangtze River Delta, also the country's largest city cluster, has been accelerating.

-- "The more efficient transport connectivity in the Yangtze River Delta has facilitated the flow of capital, talent, resources and technologies, making it easier for joint scientific research and better allocation of the industry chain," said Chen Wen, a researcher with the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

-- At a high-level forum on the region's integrated development held in Wuxi on Thursday, authorities launched four regional industry chain alliances for the sectors of integrated circuit, biomedicine, new energy vehicles and artificial intelligence.

by Xinhua writers He Leijing, Li Baojie

NANJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- At 6:50 a.m., Liu Xiaochen unhurriedly boards a high-speed train for Shanghai, traveling more than 60 km to start his day of work in the metropolitan city in less than an hour.

"The high-speed trains are fast and on time, and I also do not need to worry about traffic congestion," said Liu, who lives in the city of Kunshan in Jiangsu Province that borders Shanghai.

For many people like Liu, such a daily commute is common nowadays, thanks to the fast-paced regional integration of the Yangtze River Delta which encompasses Shanghai and the provinces of Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Anhui.

The delta region, roughly the size of Germany, is one of China's most economically active, open and innovative regions, contributing to about one-fourth of the national gross domestic product. As a national strategy, the integrated development of the delta region, also the country's largest city cluster, has been accelerating.

"The more efficient transport connectivity in the Yangtze River Delta has facilitated the flow of capital, talent, resources and technologies, making it easier for joint scientific research and better allocation of the industry chain," said Chen Wen, a researcher with the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

STRONGER CONNECTIONS

Improved connectivity within the Yangtze River Delta, like the mushrooming high-speed railways and densely constructed expressways, has made the 358,000-square-km expanse one of the most populated and urbanized city clusters in China.

Aerial photo taken on Jan. 19, 2021 shows a bullet train running in Nanjing, capital of east China's Jiangsu Province. (Photo by Su Yang/Xinhua)

With the construction of 11 new railway projects kicking off this year, the delta region is expected to have 17,000 km of rail lines in service by 2025, including 9,500 km of high-speed railway, according to the China Railway Shanghai Group Co., Ltd.

"My wife and I live in Jiangsu's Taicang, but our daughter has settled down in Shanghai. The absence of shortcuts used to be a nuisance for family reunions," said Wu Qiping, a villager at Taicang's Ludu village, which borders Shanghai's Jiading District but was split by a river.

In June 2020, a 1.8-km-long highway with a bridge was built to directly link the village with Jiading District, shortening the travel time between the two places from over half an hour to a minimum of three minutes.

"The new road offers great convenience to around 7,000 villagers like Lu, as they can visit relatives, pursue jobs and go shopping in Shanghai more easily," said Li Ye, Party chief of Ludu village.

The convenience came after authorities in the region moved to build new roads to link the dead-end inter-provincial highways to accelerate regional integration.

The power networks in the region are also accelerating integration. Construction of a 385-meter-tall power transmission tower is underway in Jiangsu's Jiangyin City, which is part of a 500-kV power transmission project that will cross the Yangtze River to supply clean energy to the more developed cities of the delta region.

"The southern part of Jiangsu consumes two-thirds of the energy of the province yet lacks power resources, but the northern part is abundant in renewable energy resources," said Wang Weiyuan, a staff worker from State Grid's Jiangsu branch.

Aerial photo taken on June 23, 2018 shows the Xinyuan photovoltaic (PV) power station built on the top of agricultural greenhouses in Tangji Township of Lianshui County, east China's Jiangsu Province. (Xinhua/Li Yuze)

"The project will help better connect the power networks in the Yangtze River Delta region, helping achieve energy sharing among cities and effectively promoting power integration in the region," Wang added.

INDUSTRIAL SYNERGY

At the national-level pilot zone of Internet of Vehicles (IoV) in Jiangsu's Wuxi City, scenes of self-adjusted traffic lights to reduce congestion and unmanned car parking are giving a glimpse of the future smart traffic industry.

As a highland of the Internet of Things (IoT) industry in China, Wuxi is home to more than 3,000 IoT companies, and the city is working with its neighbors throughout the industrial chain.

"IoV is an emerging industry, injecting new impetus to the high-quality development of the Yangtze River Delta, and the regional integration also provides it huge opportunities," said Zhen Hongbo, general manager of Shennan (Wuxi) Internet of Vehicles Co., Ltd.

Unmanned catering cars park outside the subway station of Zhangjiang Jinke Road in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 26, 2020. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

"Most of our partners are in the Yangtze River Delta, and closer connections can help improve the industrial chain as well as the industry's technical standards," Zhen added.

In recent years, the Yangtze River Delta has been the pacesetter in many cutting-edge industries. The localities have joined hands to promote the development of the digital economy, as more than 180,000 5G base stations have been built to support innovation projects.

At a high-level forum on the region's integrated development held in Wuxi on Thursday, authorities launched four regional industry chain alliances for the sectors of integrated circuit, biomedicine, new energy vehicles (NEVs) and artificial intelligence.

The Yangtze River Delta Biomedical Industry Chain Alliance was based in the city of Suzhou, Jiangsu, focusing on integrating the resources of enterprises, public platforms, universities and research institutions to promote the delta region into an innovation base for the biomedical industry.

The region, home to the factories of Tesla and NIO, is an important production base for NEVs. In the first quarter of this year, the output of NEVs in Shanghai and Anhui skyrocketed by 380 percent and 358 percent year on year, respectively.

Employees work at the Tesla Gigafactory in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 20, 2020. (Xinhua/Ding Ting)

Regional pilot projects are also playing an important role in achieving China's goals of carbon emission peak and carbon neutrality. A zero-carbon technology industrial park was inaugurated in Wuxi last week, aiming to introduce 1,000 relevant tech firms by 2025.

All members of the Yangtze River Delta will maintain multi-level and regular interactions to provide greater support for the national development and build a world-class city cluster, said Lou Qinjian, Party chief of Jiangsu.

(Video reporter: Li Yuze; Video editor: Zhao Yuchao)




[May 27, 2021] $ 467.53 Mn growth expected in Smart Tracker Market | 9.20% YOY growth in 2020 amid COVID-19 Spread | North America to Notice Maximum Growth | Technavio

NEW YORK, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The global smart tracker market by application (consumer products, pets, and luggage), technology (Bluetooth, cellular technology, and GPS), and geography (APAC, Europe, MEA, North America, and South America) has been added to Technavio's offering. The global smart tracker market is expected to grow by USD 467.53 million, at a CAGR of over 9% during 2020-2024. Request a free sample report for more insights The rising number of dual-income households and the improving per capita income of consumers, especially in emerging economies are increasing the living standards. Besides, rising awareness about smart devices among consumers is encouraging market vendors to increase their portfolios by introducing new products and expand their reach across geographies. Many such factors are expected to increase revenue in the market during the forecast period. The market is expected to be driven by factors such as the rapid decline in the ASP of smart trackers and the emergence of rugged smart trackers. The report also offers information on the upcoming trends and challenges that will influence market growth.

Download Our Free Sample Report Smart Tracker Market: Opportunities The availability of the internet and the high adoption of smartphones in emerging economies are increasing the acceptance of new gadgets and technologies among consumers. Also, rapid urbanization in developing countries is creating significant demand for electronic devices and gadgets such as Bluetooth trackers for keys, mobile phones, wallets, and pet trackers. Moreover, the increasing spend on pets in developed regions such as the US and Canada is creating significant demand for smart pet trackers. Many such factors are expected to offer several growth opportunities for market vendors during the forecast period. Smart Tracker Market: Segmentation by Application Based on the segmentation by application, the market generated maximum revenue in the consumer products segment in 2019. The segment is driven by the increasing application of smart trackers in consumer products such as key bundles, wallets, umbrellas, noteholders, cardholders, cameras, small electronic gadgets, and other small household items. In addition, rising awareness about smart trackers among consumers will have a positive impact on the growth of the segment during the forecast period. Smart Tracker Market: Segmentation by Geography North America held the largest market share in 2019 and the market growth in the region is expected to be slower compared to the growth of the market in Europe. The growth of the market in North America can be attributed to the strong presence of leading retail brands that offer smart trackers. In addition, the high adoption of technologically advanced products by consumers is contributing to the growth of the smart tracker market in North America. One of the fortune 500 companies had used the detailed research report on the smart tracker market and had decided to increase their market share in the North American region which offers the highest market opportunities during the forecast period. Explore more about market opportunities: Enquire about the report before purchasing Smart Tracker Market: Major Vendors Chipolo d.o.o. The company offers two models of smart tracker that includes Chipolo ONE and Chipolo CARD. Innova Technology PTE Ltd. The company offers Bluetooth trackers for valuables and mobile phones. The models offered by the company include Protag G1, Protag Elite, and Duet. Kaltio Technologies Oy The company offers Bluetooth-based smart trackers that are used for tracking personal valuables, shipments, and products at constrction sites.



PB Inc. dba Pebblebee The company offers various models of wallet, phone, and other valuable trackers, including Pebblebee Finder 2.0, Pebblebee BlackCard, Pebblebee Finder, Pebblebee Honey, Pebblebee Stone, and Pebblebee BlackCard + EZGO.

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. The company offers Smartthings Tracker that is used for tracking pets, kids, keys, and other important things. Along with the market data, Technavio offers customizations as per the specific needs of companies. The following customization options are available for the smart tracker market report: Regional Analysis Further breakdown of the market segmentation at requested regions. Market Player Information Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players, vendor segmentation, and vendor offerings.

Know the strategies adopted by vendors during the COVID-19 Recovery Phase. Speak to our Analyst for a Customized Report Related Reports on Smart Tracker Market: Global GPS Tracker Market  Global GPS tracker market is segmented by end-user (logistics and transportation, construction and mining, government, and oil and gas) and geography (Europe, APAC, North America, MEA, and South America).

Request a Free Sample Report Global Smart Connected Cooking Appliances Market  Global smart connected cooking appliances market is segmented by distribution channel (offline and online) and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and MEA).

Request a Free Sample Report Global Smart Shade Devices Market  Global smart shade devices market is segmented by distribution channel (retail and others), technology (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and BLE, and others), end-user (residential and commercial), and geography (North America, APAC, Europe, South America, and MEA).

Request a Free Sample Report Global Wireless Headphones Market  Global wireless headphones market is segmented by type (in-ear wireless headphones, on-ear wireless headphones, and over-ear wireless headphones) and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and MEA).

Request a Free Sample Report Global Industrial Wireless Control Switches Market  Global industrial wireless control switches market is segmented by product (wireless limit switches and wireless push buttons) and geography (APAC, Europe, North America, MEA, and South America).

Request a Free Sample Report Subscribe to our most popular "Lite Plan" at only $ 3000 per year and avail following benefits View 3 reports monthly!

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Get lifetime access to our Technavio Insights! Executive Summary Market Overview Market Landscape Market ecosystem

Value chain analysis Market Sizing Market definition

Market segment analysis

Market size 2019

Market outlook: Forecast for 2019 - 2024 Five Forces Analysis Bargaining power of buyers

Bargaining power of suppliers

Threat of new entrants

Threat of substitutes

Threat of rivalry

Market condition Market Segmentation by Application Market segments

Comparison by Application

Consumer products - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Pets - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Luggage - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Market opportunity by Application Market Segmentation by Technology Market segments

Comparison by Technology

Bluetooth - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Cellular technology - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

GPS - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Market opportunity by Technology Customer landscape Overview Geographic Landscape Geographic segmentation

Geographic comparison

North America - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

- Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Europe - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

- Market size and forecast 2019-2024 APAC - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

South America - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

- Market size and forecast 2019-2024 MEA - Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Key leading countries

Market opportunity by geography Drivers, Challenges, and Trends Market drivers

Market challenges

Market trends Vendor Landscape Overview

Landscape disruption Vendor Analysis Vendors covered

Market positioning of vendors

Chipolo d.o.o.

Innova Technology PTE Ltd.

Kaltio Technologies Oy

LugLoc

Mars Inc.

PB Inc. dba Pebblebee

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.

Smart Tracking Technologies LLC

Tile Inc.

TrackR Inc. Appendix Scope of the report

Currency conversion rates for US$

Research methodology

List of abbreviations About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contact

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Report: www.technavio.com/report/smart-tracker-market-industry-analysis View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/-467-53-mn-growth-expected-in-smart-tracker-market--9-20-yoy-growth-in-2020-amid-covid-19-spread--north-america-to-notice-maximum-growth--technavio-301300495.html SOURCE Technavio

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[May 27, 2021] Novo Holdings Leads US$200M Series A investment in Asia-based Life Sciences Tools Company Esco Lifesciences Group

SINGAPORE and COPENHAGEN, Denmark, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Novo Holdings today announced that it has co-led with Vivo Capital the over-subscribed US$200 million Series A and Crossover round in Esco Lifesciences Group ("Esco"), a leading provider of life sciences tools and services. The financing will enable Esco to strengthen its position through organic and external growth and transformation, as well as invest in China, thus addressing some of the most dynamic market segments and geographies. Other investors include two Asian sovereign wealth funds and Singapore-based global investor, EDBI. Esco is a world-leading manufacturer of laboratory and biopharma equipment and IVF medical devices, with four divisions, namely, Scientific, Medical, Healthcare, and Aster, which offers mission-critical equipment and advanced solutions to a broad diversity of laboratories, clinics and bio-pharma production sites in over 100 countries, thus contributing to the future of life science research and manufacturing. Kasim Kutay, Chief Executive Officer of Novo Holdings, said, "As a long term, global life sciences investor, Novo Holdings is delighted to be partnering with the like-minded team at Esco. The opportunities for growth and expansion at Esco are significant and we look forward to bringing to bear our patient capital and life science expertise to the realisation of the Company's strategy." Amit Kakar, Senior Partner, Head of Novo Holdings Asia, added, "Novo Holdings established its Asia presence with the opening of its Singapore office in January of this year and our investment in Esco is a very important milestone in the development of our regional ambitions. This investment builds on Novo's strategy to identify and invest in life science and healthcare companies which are true leaders in their field, and Esco, with its deep-rooted history, track record and xpertise has a stellar reputation for innovation in the global laboratory and cleanroom industry."



XQ Lin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Esco Lifesciences, commented, "We are pleased to welcome Novo Holdings, one of the most experienced life sciences investors globally to Esco. This financing is a significant milestone for the Company as we embark on our Esco 3.0 transformation, which primarily involves strategic bolt-on M&A and expedited expansion in China, our priority market, to maintain the strong revenue growth we have achieved over the last decade. This financing will enable the creation of an innovation hub in Boston, focused on cell and gene therapy tools and technologies. We will increase our R&D and in-licensing efforts to develop and commercialise enabling novel life science research tools in emerging domains, thus enabling fundamental scientific discoveries and, ultimately, the diagnostics and medicines of tomorrow." About Novo Holdings A/S

Novo Holdings A/S is a private limited liability company wholly owned by the Novo Nordisk Foundation. It is the holding company of the Novo Group, comprising Novo Nordisk A/S and Novozymes A/S, and is responsible for managing the Novo Nordisk Foundation's assets. Novo Holdings is recognized as a leading international life science investor, with a focus on creating long-term value. As a life science investor, Novo Holdings provides seed and venture capital to development-stage companies and takes significant ownership positions in growth and well-established companies. Novo Holdings also manages a broad portfolio of diversified financial assets. Further information: www.novoholdings.dk. About the Novo Nordisk Foundation The Novo Nordisk Foundation is an independent Danish foundation with corporate interests. It has two objectives: 1) to provide a stable basis for the commercial and research activities of the companies in the Novo Group; and 2) to support scientific, humanitarian and social causes. The vision of the Foundation is to contribute significantly to research and development that improves the lives of people and the sustainability of society. Since 2010, the Foundation has donated more than DKK 30 billion (4 billion), primarily for research at public institutions and hospitals in Denmark and the other Nordic countries. Read more at www.novonordiskfonden.dk/en About Esco Lifesciences Group Esco Lifesciences Group provides enabling technologies, products and services to the life sciences and healthcare industries, supporting academic research and scientific discoveries, clinical practice, as well as biopharmaceutical R&D and manufacturing. Headquartered in Singapore, Esco has an extensive sales network in over 100 countries, direct sales and service offices in over 20 countries, 8 manufacturing and R&D hubs in the US, Europe, the UK, China, Singapore, Indonesia, and over 1600 employees worldwide. View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/novo-holdings-leads-us200m-series-a-investment-in-asia-based-life-sciences-tools-company-esco-lifesciences-group-301300581.html SOURCE Novo Holdings

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[May 27, 2021] APOLLO Insurance Partners With the Graphic Designers of Canada to Offer Their Members Access to Digital Insurance

Apollo Insurance Solutions Ltd. ("APOLLO Insurance") (TSXV: APLO Reserved), Canada's leading online insurance provider, has partnered with the Graphic Designers of Canada (GDC), to offer immediate digital insurance products, specifically tailored to their membership of over 850 graphic designers across Canada. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005207/en/ APOLLO Insurance has partnered with the Graphic Designers of Canada (GDC) to provide their membership with access to digital insurance products. (Graphic: Business Wire) Launched in April 2019, APOLLO now offers the largest selection of online insurance in Canada through brokers and embedded partnerships like the one with the GDC. In January 2021, APOLLO announced the close of a CAD $13.5 million Series A financing round. "APOLLO is always looking for forward-thinking organizations like the GDC to partne with," said APOLLO Director of Business Development Jill Carberry. "The 2020's promise a renaissance of entrepreneurship, and APOLLO will be there to support graphic designers with access to digital insurance products."



GDC is Canada's national certification body for graphic and communication design and, since 1956, has established standards for design professionals, educators, and leaders. "GDC is very pleased to partner with APOLLO to ensure members have access to fulsome Errors and Omissions insurance at competitive rates," said GDC Executive Director Melanie MacDonald. "As an association with 65 years of community trust, GDC takes great care in ensuring the partnerships we enter into are with like-minded, reputable organizations."

APOLLO's proprietary technology platform, the APOLLO Exchange, transacts insurance business in real time, and leverages extensive data and sophisticated algorithms to quote, collect payment, create and deliver policies. Thousands of types of small businesses and individuals are able to buy online without human intervention. About APOLLO Insurance

APOLLO is Canada's leading online insurance provider. Our proprietary platform, the APOLLO Exchange, allows insurance agents and their customers to purchase their policy immediately, from anywhere, on any device, 24/7. Unlike traditional paper-based processes, APOLLO leverages extensive data and sophisticated algorithms to quote, collect payment, and issue policies for thousands of types of small business and individuals without human intervention. Through traditional agents and embedded finance partnerships APOLLO is redefining the distribution of insurance. For more information, visit: https://apollocover.com/ About GDC

GDC is Canada's national certification body for graphic and communication design and, since 1956, has established standards for design professionals, educators, and leaders. Through our certification program, GDC licenses the unique CGD certification mark to members whose services meet rigorous, standardized criteria. The CGD certification mark is recognized across Canada as the mark of professional services and ethical business conduct. GDC is a member-based organization of design professionals, educators, administrators, students and affiliates in communications, marketing, media and design-related fields. Our members come together via nine chapters across Canada to advocate for the advancement of the design profession. For more information, visit: https://www.gdc.net/ View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005207/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Autohome Inc. Announces Management Change

BEIJING, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Autohome Inc. (NYSE: ATHM; HKEX: 2518) ("Autohome" or the "Company"), the leading online destination for automobile consumers in China, today announced that Mr. Jingyu Zhang has notified the Company that he intends to resign as Co-President for personal reasons. The effective date of Mr. Zhang's resignation will be May 31, 2021. Mr. Quan Long, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of Autohome, stated, "On behalf of Autohome, I would like to thank Jingyu for his contributions over the years. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors. The Company will continue to focus on the buildup of our auto-related ecosystem, promote high-quality services and deliver sustainable growth over the long run." About Autohome Inc. Autohome Inc. (NYSE: ATHM; HKEX: 2518) is the leading online destination for automobile consumers in China. Its mission is to engage, educate and inform consumers about everything auto. Autohome provides original generated content, professionally generated content, user-generated content, and AI-generated content, a comprehensive automobile library, and extensive automobile listing information to automobile consumers, covering the entire car purchase and ownership cycle. The ability to reach a large and engaged user base of automobile consumers has made Autohome a preferred platform for automakers and dealers to conduct their advertising campaigns. Further, the Company's dealer subscription and advertising services allow dealers to market their inventory and services through Autohome's platform, extending the reach of their physical showrooms to potentially millions of internet users in China and generating sales leads for them. The Company offers sales leads, data analysis, and marketing services to assist automakers and dealers with improving their efficiency and facilitating transactions. Autohome operates its "Autohome Mall," a full-service online trasaction platform, to facilitate transactions for automakers and dealers. Further, through its websites and mobile applications, it also provides other value-added services, including auto financing, auto insurance, used car transactions, and aftermarket services. For further information, please visit www.autohome.com.cn.



Safe Harbor Statement This press release contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking" statements pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will", "expects", "anticipates", "future", "intends", "plans", "believes", "estimates" and similar statements. Among other things, Autohome's business outlook, Autohome's strategic and operational plans and quotations from management in this announcement contain forward-looking statements. Autohome may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), in announcements made on the website of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the "Hong Kong Stock Exchange"), in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about Autohome's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Autohome's goals and strategies; Autohome's future business development, results of operations and financial condition; the expected growth of the online automobile advertising market in China; Autohome's ability to attract and retain users and advertisers and further enhance its brand recognition; Autohome's expectations regarding demand for and market acceptance of its products and services; competition in the online automobile advertising industry; fluctuations in general economic and business conditions in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in Autohome's filings with the SEC and announcements on the website of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and Autohome does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

For investor and media inquiries, please contact: In China: Autohome Inc.

Investor Relations

Tel: +86-10-5985-7483

E-mail: ir@autohome.com.cn The Piacente Group, Inc.

Jenny Cai

Tel: +86-10-6508-0677

E-mail: autohome@tpg-ir.com In the United States: The Piacente Group, Inc.

Brandi Piacente

Tel: +1-212-481-2050

E-mail: autohome@tpg-ir.com View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/autohome-inc-announces-management-change-301300665.html SOURCE Autohome Inc.

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[May 27, 2021] Canadian Online Brokerage Firms Struggle to Support Increased Volume, J.D. Power Finds

With the pandemic proving to be a boon for Canadian online investment firms with more do-it-yourself (DIY) investors flocking to this segment than ever before, a greater strain is being placed on their online brokerage systems. According to the J.D. Power 2021 Canada Self-Directed Investor Satisfaction Study,SM released today, the result is that online brokerages are struggling to deliver a seamless trading experience. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005023/en/ J.D. Power 2021 Canada Self-Directed Investor Satisfaction Study (Graphic: Business Wire) In addition to the influx of new DIY investors taking advantage of the early 2020 market correction, 40% of existing investors increased their investments as well as trading activity (25 trades, on average, vs. 15 in 2020). However, with this boost in investment activity, 24% of self-directed investors say they had at least one problem with their firm during the past 12 months-an increase from 14% in 2020 and more than double that of U.S. DIY investors (11%) during the same period. "Canadian self-directed investment firms have had a great year, with many new and existing clients ramping up trading volumes and funneling more money into their portfolios," said Michael Foy, senior director and head of wealth intelligence at J.D. Power. "But this has come with challenges to the stability of platforms as well as the capacity of firms to quickly respond to and resolve client problems. Especially for newer clients, those who have not yet developed strong loyalty with these firms, who are more likely to leave if they have a bad experience. Investors today have more choices and firms need to raise the bar on the experience they deliver." Following are some key findings of the 2021 study: Problems exacerbate investors' departure: One-fifth (20%) of investors who experienced a problem with their investment firm say they are considering switching providers, which is more than three times the number of investors without issues (6%) who say they plan to switch. Furthermore, investors who experienced an issue with their self-directed wealth management firm are more likely t become brand detractors than are those who did not experience an issue. Young and impatient: With 47% of self-directed investors using a phone to engage with customer service, wait time is an issue in this communication channel, especially among younger investors. The study shows a significant perception gap between Millennials1 and younger investors and Boomer/Pre-Boomer investors. Only 16% of Millennial and younger investors say they had phone wait times of one minute or less compared with 28% of Boomer/Pre-Boomer investors, reflecting a much lower tolerance among younger investors for waiting. Mobile lags and chat still underutilized: DIY investors have an average satisfaction of 644 (on a 1,000-point scale) with their wealth management firm's website, which is higher than other channels. Satisfaction with the firm's app is 604 and satisfaction with the phone channel is 587. Interestingly, chat as a communications channel is underutilized by investors-just 13% use chat-yet those who use it have higher satisfaction with the channel (627) than with the app or phone.



th year, evaluates key satisfaction drivers and firm performance among true do-it-yourself investors (those who do not interact with professional advisors). Study Ranking

National Bank Direct Brokerage ranks highest among self-directed investor firms with a score of 654. Questrade (645) ranks second and RBC Direct (615) ranks third. The Canada Self-Directed Investor Satisfaction Study, which was redesigned for 2021, measures self-directed investors' satisfaction with their investment firm based on performance in seven factors (in order of importance): trust; digital channels; ability to manage wealth how and when I want; products and services; value for fees; people; and problem resolution. The 2021 study is based on responses from 2,011 investors who make all their investment decisions without the counsel of a full-service dedicated financial advisor. The study was fielded from December 2020 through February 2021. For more information about the Canada Self-Directed Investor Satisfaction Study, visit https://canada.jdpower.com/financial-services/canada-self-directed-investor-satisfaction-study. To view the online press release, please visit http://www.jdpower.com/pr-id/2021056. About J.D. Power J.D. Power is a global leader in consumer insights, advisory services and data and analytics. A pioneer in the use of big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithmic modelling capabilities to understand consumer behavior, J.D. Power has been delivering incisive industry intelligence on customer interactions with brands and products for more than 50 years. The world's leading businesses across major industries rely on J.D. Power to guide their customer-facing strategies. J.D. Power is headquartered in Troy, Mich., and has offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more about the company's business offerings, visit JDPower.com/business. About J.D. Power and Advertising/Promotional Rules: www.jdpower.com/business/about-us/press-release-info 1 J.D. Power defines generational groups as Pre-Boomers (born before 1946); Boomers (1946-1964); Gen X (1965-1976); Gen Y (1977-1994); and Gen Z (1995-2004). Millennials (1982-1994) are a subset of Gen Y. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005023/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Sensorium Galaxy Tokens (SENSO) Now Available On MXC Exchange

LOS ANGELES, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Sensorium Corporation is pleased to announce that SENSO - the in-metaverse token of Sensorium Galaxy  is now officially featured on the MXC Exchange. As a result of this move, MXC users will have access to the trading pairs: SENSO/BTC, SENSO/ETH, and SENSO/USDT starting on May 28, 2021. Since launching in 2018, MXC Exchange has grown to become one of the world's leading crypto trading platforms, with a strong focus on providing users with diversity and reliability across a wide array of digital asset trading options. Currently, MXC supports the most significant number of trading pairs and global crypto markets, having over 480 coins listed on the platform. MXC has recently reported having five million regular users in over 70 countries. "By partnering with MXC to include SENSO on its platform, Sensorium is again reaffirming its unwavering commitment in offering transparent, reliable and user-friendly platforms through which users can access SENSO tokens. This is a significant step forward in expanding accessibility for new markets," said Alex Blagirev, Deputy CEO at Sensorium Corporation. SENSO tokens are used for all value transactions within Sensorium Galaxy  a digital metaverse developed in collaboration with world-famous artists, producers, and media companies.



Tokens have recently been further integrated into Sensorium Galaxy's metaverse to include minting of non-fungible tokens (NFT), running marketplace operations, and regulating a decentralized autonomous organization (DAO). SENSO tokens can also be found on major other cryptocurrency exchanges including Bittrex, Kucoin, Poloniex, Bitcoin.com, and HitBTC.

About Sensorium Corporation Founded in 2018 with the sole support of Forbes-listed billionaire Mikhail Prokhorov, Sensorium Corporation oversees the technological and business development of the Sensorium Galaxy platform and supplies it with a wide range of events and experiences through top-tier global content partnerships. Consisting of professionals from a wide array of fields, Sensorium's management team guarantees that the technological collaboration and strategic partnerships are always directed toward attaining Sensorium's most relevant contribution to the virtual reality landscapeto make it fully social. Since its foundation, Sensorium Corporation has raised over $100 million in private investments, making it one of the world's best-funded startups in the VR space. For more information: https://sensoriumxr.com/ About MXC Currently, MXC Exchange has around 5 million users in more than 70 countries around the world. This achievement is a significant milestone, and the platform aims to become a go-to platform for new and experienced investors as they move forward. The exchange spreads across five countries, Singapore, Switzerland, Canada, Australia, and the United States where it is fully licenced. MXC offers a high-performance trading engine that developers with expertise in banking technology developed. With every second reliability, the exchange alone delivers 1.4 million transactions and adds improved performance. Singapore and Korea host its server clusters. For more information: https://www.mxc.com/ Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1518035/Sensorium.jpg View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sensorium-galaxy-tokens-senso-now-available-on-mxc-exchange-301299743.html SOURCE Sensorium Corporation

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[May 27, 2021] Antonio Horta - Osorio Appointed as Independent Director to PartnerRe's Board

PartnerRe Ltd. today announced that Antonio Horta - Osorio has been appointed as an Independent Director to its Board of Directors, effective May 27, 2021. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005444/en/ Antonio Horta - Osorio Appointed as Independent Director to PartnerRe's Board (Photo: Business Wire) Mr. Horta - Osorio joins PartnerRe's Board and will be Chairman of the Investment Committee and a member of the Underwriting and Risk Committee. He is currently the Chairman of Credit Suisse's Board, having been appointed in April 202. Previously, Mr. Horta - Osorio served on the Board of Exor N.V. as a non-executive director from July 2015 until May 2021, as Group Chief Executive of Lloyds Banking Group and as an Executive Director on the board from 2011 until April 2021. Prior to that, he was the Chief Executive of Santander UK plc and Executive Vice President of Grupo Santander.



Commenting on the appointment, PartnerRe Board Chairman, Brian Dowd said, "On behalf of the Board, Jacques Bonneau and I are pleased to welcome Antonio. His experience in the Financial Services sector spans over 34 years and he brings a depth and breadth of expertise that will further enhance the strength of the PartnerRe Board." With this change, the PartnerRe Ltd. Board comprises six directors of which four are independent from the Company.

PartnerRe Ltd. is a leading global reinsurer that helps insurance companies reduce their earnings volatility, strengthen their capital and grow their businesses through reinsurance solutions. Risks are underwritten on a worldwide basis through the Company's three segments: P&C, Specialty, and Life and Health. For the year ended December 31, 2020, total revenues were $7.4 billion. At March 31, 2021, total assets were $28.0 billion, total capital was $9.4 billion and total shareholders' equity was $7.5 billion. PartnerRe maintains strong financial strength ratings as follows: A.M. Best A+ / Moody's A1 / Standard & Poor's A+. PartnerRe on the Internet: www.partnerre.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005444/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Symphony RetailAI Named as a Representative Vendor in the 2021 Gartner Market Guide for Retail Store Inventory Management Applications

DALLAS, May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Symphony RetailAI, a leading global provider of integrated AI-powered marketing, merchandising and supply chain solutions for FMCG retailers and manufacturers, today announced that it was recognized as a Representative Vendor in 2021 Gartner Market Guide for Retail Store Inventory Management Applications [1] (Gartner subscription required). Symphony RetailAI is one of 13 vendors named in the report that provide all major components described in the research.

According to this report, Gartner states, For Tier 1 unified commerce retailers, store inventory management (SIM) refers to the efficient and effective management of stock across all in-store processes down to SKU/item-level granularity. Further it adds, With the lines between store inventory and upstream inventory blurring, retailers should evaluate their SIM deployment strategy holistically in conjunction with upstream demand forecasting, inventory allocation and replenishment processes. AI-based intelligence to drive more accurate demand forecasting should be analyzed in tandem with the data inputs gleaned from real-time IoT data streams from the store. This will, in turn, enable creation of tailored market assortments and forward deployment of inventory to stores based on localized market needs.[1] Gartners report also mentions, Ultimately, AI will be the single biggest influence on retailers ability to discern real-time inventory feeds across their entire estate, particularly in their stores.[1] Symphony RetailAIs GOLD Supply Chain Optimization Suite is comprised of Supply Chain Insights, Inventory Management, Order Fulfillment, Distributed Order Management, Click and Collect, and Master Data Management. Through a unified, end-to-end view of the supply chain, each application supports fresh item inventory management to reduce food waste and minimize out of stocks. Access to the right data in real time equips associates to make informed decisions around in-store stock and the fulfillment of omnichannel orders. Finally, as a part of Symphony RetailAIs single, cloud-native data platform, the GOLD Supply Chain Optmization Suite is supported by the companys forecasting and replenishment solutions. With accurate and AI-powered demand forecasts and a consolidated view of inventory, retailers are able to reduce costs and improve customer service in stores.



We believe that our inclusion in Gartners Market Guide for Retail Store Inventory Management Applications is confirmation of our suites alignment with todays business needs, particularly as retailers look to reduce inventory-carrying costs and satisfy customer demand in an omnichannel environment, said Patrick Buellet, Chief Strategy Officer, Symphony RetailAI. Also, in our review of Gartners analysis, were one of only four Representative Vendors that meet all of the evaluated capabilities for SIM applications. By leveraging the Symphony RetailAI GOLD Supply Chain Optimization Suite, our customers achieve up to a 35% reduction in inventory, 40% improvement in productivity, and a 45% reduction in waste. View the Market Guide for Retail Store Inventory Management Applications here (Gartner subscription required). Learn more about Symphony RetailAIs GOLD Supply Chain Optimization Suite.

[1] Gartner, Market Guide for Retail Store Inventory Management Applications, Sandeep Unni, 3 May 2021 Disclaimer:

Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartners research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. About Symphony RetailAI

Symphony RetailAI is a leading global provider of role-specific, AI-powered revenue growth management solutions and customer-centric insights for retailers and CPG manufacturers across the entire value chain. Our proven, industry-leading, AI-enabled software, coupled with the industrys only conversational natural-language AI interface, CINDE, provides key users with proven prescriptive and preemptive recommendations that make it easy to identify end-to-end growth opportunities, activate plans and realize measurable profit and revenue growth. Our solutions are specific to key decision-maker roles focused on profitable growth across the retail value chain from source to consumer. With our strong global partner ecosystem, we serve more than 1,200 organizations worldwide  including 15 of the top 25 global grocery retailers, 25 of the top 25 global CPG manufacturers, thousands of retail brands, and hundreds of national and regional chains  all through the Microsoft Azure Cloud. Symphony RetailAI is a SymphonyAI company. More at Symphony RetailAI. About SymphonyAI

SymphonyAI is building the leading Enterprise AI company for the digital transformation of the business enterprise, across the most important and resilient growth verticals, including life sciences, healthcare, retail, consumer packaged goods, financial services, manufacturing and media. In each of these verticals SAI businesses have many of the leading enterprises as clients. SAI is backed by a $1 billion commitment from Dr. Romesh Wadhwani, a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist. Since its founding in 2017, SymphonyAI has grown rapidly to a combined revenue run rate of more than $300 million and over 2,200 talented leaders, data scientists, and other professionals. More at SymphonyAI. Media Contact

Adrienne Newcomb

Ketner Group Communications (for Symphony RetailAI)

adrienne@ketnergroup.com





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[May 27, 2021] Microlab SMART Passives System Wins 2020 Connected Real Estate Tech Award for Best In-Building Public Safety Solution

Parsippany, New Jersey, USA, May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wireless Telecom Group (NYSE American: WTT), announced its Microlab brand has received the 2020 Connected Real Estate Tech Award for Best In-Building Public Safety Solution. The Award specifically recognizes the Microlab SMART Passives Systems unique ability to provide real-time performance monitoring of critical Distributed Antenna System (DAS) infrastructure, supporting reliable and efficient operation of dedicated wireless networks for mission-critical communications. The Connected Real Estate Tech Awards acknowledge industry-leading companies at the forefront of in-building technology, focused on addressing complex challenges with new, forward-thinking solutions. Facing poorly performing wireless systems for public safety radio traffic, the In-Building Public Safety category highlights solutions excellence in delivering effective radio coverage for first responders. We are honored to receive the 2020 Connected Real Estate Tech Award for Best In-Building Public Safety Solution, an award celebrating our achievements in designing and building an innovative solution that addresses reliability and coverage issues for public safety wireless networks, says Tom McCabe, Product Manager at Microlab. Public safety radio systems are relied upon during emergency events, with yearly proof-of-performance tests and the lack of consistent radio traffic heightening the risk of undetected DAS failures and performance degradation. The SMART Passives System ensures a public safety DAS is fully operational whenever needed. The SMART Passives System is comprised of a headend SMART Gateway and a network of SMART Couplers deployed throughout a buildings DAS. Both units utilize an Internet of Things (IoT) engine for RF diagnostics, control, and processing. The SMART Gateway generates a calibrated CW tone used by each SMART Coupler to report the Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) at each port, a metric stored and compared over time. In the event of an anomalous VSWR reading, the SMART Gateway communicates an alarm via e-mail, SMS, or SNMP, which contains the failures location within the building. A full suite of DAS diagnostics and alarms is available through the SMART Gateways multi-layered graphical user interface (GUI). SMART Couplers serve as direct replacements for required tappers and couplers used in a passive DAS design, and do not require additional hardware, DC power connections, or Ethernet connectivity. The award-winning SMART Passives System ensures system integrators, authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ), building owners, and first responders consistently have high-integrity and dependable life-safety communications systems.



 END  About Wireless Telecom Group

Wireless Telecom Group, Inc., comprised of Boonton, CommAgility, Holzworth, Microlab, and Noisecom, is a global designer and manufacturer of advanced RF and microwave components, modules, systems, and instruments. Serving the wireless, telecommunication, satellite, military, aerospace, semiconductor, and medical industries, Wireless Telecom Group products enable innovation across existing and emerging wireless technologies. With a product portfolio including peak power meters, signal generators, phase noise analyzers, signal processing modules, LTE PHY/stack software, power splitters and combiners, GPS repeaters, public safety components, noise sources, and programmable noise generators, Wireless Telecom Group supports the development, testing, and deployment of wireless technologies around the globe. Wireless Telecom Group, Inc.s website address is wirelesstelecomgroup.com. Except for historical information, the matters discussed in this news release may be considered "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such statements include declarations regarding the intent, belief, or current expectations of the Company and its management. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could materially affect actual results. Such risks and uncertainties are identified in the Company's reports and registration statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020. Investor Contact

Andrew M. Berger

Managing Director

SM Berger& Company

(216) 464-6400

andrew@smberger.com Marketing Contact

Maria Droge: +1 (973) 386-9696

Wireless Telecom Group Inc.

25 Eastmans Road

Parsippany, NJ 07054

Tel: (973) 386-9696

Fax: (973) 386-9191

www.wtcom.com



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[May 27, 2021] Draper Hero Institute Announces Best & Worst States To Start a Business

SAN MATEO, Calif., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Following March's launch of the Draper Innovation Index (DII) Global where new data identified the most promising environments for innovative businesses globally, today, the Draper Hero Institute announced their DII US that compares US states by a variety of metrics and indicators. "People are mobile. There is a reason why so many startups are moving from California to Texas, Washington and Florida," said Tim Draper, Founder of the Draper Hero Institute. "Our new US innovation index aggregates a variety of metrics and indicators including: freedom vs regulations (5G, banking, insurance, historical); venture capital investment and trends; capital gains top tax rate; strength of the tech workforce; strength of education; demographics trends; and high tech employment, in order to assess each state's ability to support startup creation and success. The DII US will provide a vital resource for businesses, VC's and state governments to assess their economic vitality." The economic recovery from COVID-19 offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for states to attract entrepreneurs and investors, especially in the context of a dramatically changing workplace. Remote work's now mainstream status, for instance, opens up the competition for tech workers and startups to every single state, not just traditional tech powerhouses. "The ability to drill-down and understand the Draper Innovation Index at a more granular sub-national level is essential to understanding which states could be a good environment for innovation and economic investment," said Salim Sawaya, Lead for location intelligence technology provider Esri's Nonprofit & Global Organizations Team. "Esri and our partner Blue Raster continue to support the Draper Hero Institute find and use authoritative datasets for their US sates index so that investors and innovators can leverage the power of location intelligence through GIS to identify the states that hold the most potential or promise."



The DII US includes three major scenarios: Balanced, Tech Innovation Environment and Regulatory and Tax Environment. These scenarios weight six sub-indices, providing a look at state performance in a variety of categories. For example, California, the long-time leader in US innovation and entrepreneurship is still a major force, but others are catching up in this category and have surpassed the state on the other important DII ranking components. Silicon Valley has long driven high-tech employment, innovation and entrepreneurship, giving the state a significant foothold in our Tech Innovation Environment scenario. Massachusetts can thank its world-renown academic and research institutions such as Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for its second place ranking while Washington's continued tech employment growth  34 percent over the past 10 years  and history as the birthplace for major tech organizations including Microsoft and Amazon helped edge it into third place.

"One key takeaway is just how much the innovation and entrepreneurship climate varies from state to state. In order to remain relevant in an increasingly competitive market for talent, employers and capital investment, states need to know just how they stack up against their neighbors and rivals ," said Dr. Wallace Walrod DHI's Chief Economic Advisor. "The DII US allows for these comparisons in multiple areas, such as small business policy and tax environment." About Draper Hero Institute

Founded by legendary Silicon Valley venture capitalist and entrepreneur Timothy C. Draper, Draper Hero Institute (DHI) provides applicable and modern resources for future entrepreneurs globally and ensures inclusiveness and opportunities for all. As an action-based research institution, DHI focuses its efforts on non-traditional pathways to guide future entrepreneurs in the new economy. Through programs that ignite innovative research; united through connectivity and networking; and mentoring efforts through applied education, DHI provides a portal for creative thinking and ultimately driving change to better prepare future entrepreneurs to take on heroic endeavors. https://www.draperhero.org/ About ESRI

Esri, the global market leader in geographic information system (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping, helps customers unlock the full potential of data to improve operational and business results. Founded in 1969 in Redlands, California, USA, Esri software is deployed in more than 350,000 organizations globally and in over 200,000 institutions in the Americas, Asia and the Pacific, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, nonprofits, and universities. Esri has regional offices, international distributors, and partners providing local support in over 100 countries on six continents. With its pioneering commitment to geospatial information technology, Esri engineers the most innovative solutions for digital transformation, the Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced analytics. https://esri.com View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/draper-hero-institute-announces-best--worst-states-to-start-a-business-301299104.html SOURCE Draper Hero Institute

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 18:28:22|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese central government spokesperson on Thursday commended the passage of a bill by the Legislative Council (LegCo) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) to improve Hong Kong's electoral system.

The spokesperson for the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council said the endorsement of "Improving Electoral System (Consolidated Amendments) Bill 2021" -- which contains amendments to local electoral laws -- marks the full completion of the local legislative work on improving the HKSAR's electoral system.

The move is another institutional achievement in ensuring law-based governance in Hong Kong and will open a new chapter of good governance, said the spokesperson.

Making local laws to improve Hong Kong's electoral system will plug the loopholes in the existing system and help eliminate chaos seen in previous elections, said the spokesperson.

The passing of the bill demonstrates the sense of responsibility of the HKSAR government, the LegCo and various social sectors in upholding the constitutional order, the spokesperson said, commending the new trend of Hong Kong's executive authorities and legislature engaging in positive interaction.

The newly adopted bill, along with the national security law for Hong Kong, and the public servants' oath and allegiance system, has further established the new order of "patriots administering Hong Kong," said the spokesperson.

The new order will ensure the steady and sound development of Hong Kong's democratic political system, according to the spokesperson.

On the upcoming elections of the Election Committee, the LegCo and the Chief Executive of the HKSAR, the spokesperson said relevant departments of the central government will support the HKSAR government in organizing elections in accordance with the law, strictly regulating electoral activities, and cracking down on various illegal acts that disrupt the election order. Enditem
[May 27, 2021] AWS Public Sector Selects Buurst as a Strategic Provider for Smart Data Migration Workloads

Buurst, a leading enterprise-class data performance company, announced today that Amazon Web Services (News - Alert) (AWS) Public Sector has selected the company as a strategic provider for smart data migration. Buurst's new Fuusion technology enables organizations to accelerate the migration of application workloads to AWS and AWS cloud-native services for data orchestration. As an early adopter of AWS, Buurst has been active in the AWS Marketplace for eight years, supporting joint customers. Buurst was also recently added to the AWS ISV Accelerate program, an invitation-only tier for software companies that have met stringent technical and revenue requirements with AWS. The company's commitment to AWS includes three AWS Partner Network (APN) competencies in migration, storage, and public sector, qualifying for joint go-to-market initiatives with AWS and their global Partners. The Smart Data Migration program offered with Buurst Fuusion provides organizations an edge-to-cloud solution into AWS that is orchestrated into other AWS cloud-native services such as EFS, FSx, Redshift, Rekognition, Kineses, and Athena. Additionally, Fuusion's patented, built-in UltraFast data acceleration feature securely transfers data at speeds up to 100 times the average transmission rates. This capabiliy is critical for organizations with remote sites connected via high latency network connections such as satellite, 5G, cellular, or DSL.



"We are pleased to see Buurst's involvement in many of our key Partner initiatives designed to move data workloads into the cloud where improved decision making can take place through visualization or analytics," said Sandy Carter, Vice President, Worldwide Public Sector Partners and Programs, AWS. "Launching smart data migrations between AWS, Buurst and Carahsoft enables public sector organizations globally to rapidly and securely migrate data to a wide range of AWS cloud-native services for the enhanced protection of legacy data." "Working with Buurst and AWS allows our public-sector customers to deploy the latest innovative technology in the cloud and at the edge. Buurst Fuusion enables public sector organizations to aggregate their data quickly and to migrate those workloads to advanced AWS cloud-native services securely," said Craig P. Abod, Carahsoft President. "We are looking forward to this relationship that will help better support our government customers and reseller partners."

"We are announcing this new AWS public sector initiative today as we continue to expand our longtime relationship with AWS," said Vic Mahadevan, Buurst CEO. "As a strategic AWS provider, our goal is to securely accelerate data migration from the edge to AWS for the worldwide public sector market." About Buurst Buurst is a data performance software company that provides solutions for enterprise data in the cloud or at the edge. The company provides high availability, secure access, and performance-based pricing to organizational data with the industry's only No Downtime Guarantee for cloud storage. To learn more, visit. www.buurst.com or follow the company on Twitter (News - Alert) , LinkedIn, and Vimeo. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005350/en/

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[May 27, 2021] SpotOn Partners with Guy's Restaurant Reboot to Support Restaurants

SpotOn, a leader in fully-integrated restaurant management system and Point of Sale (POS), has partnered with Guy's Restaurant Reboot, a primetime special that will inspire and empower the next generation of restaurant owners. As part of Guy's Restaurant Reboot, SpotOn (News - Alert) will make a $25,000 donation to the Help Rebuild Restaurants Grant and provide aspiring restaurateurs with free SpotOn Restaurant POS services for a full year. Since the start of the pandemic, SpotOn has partnered with restaurant clients to give them the technology and support to stay open and profitable, while preparing them for the future-from rolling out commission-free online ordering and waiving $1.5M in software fees to assisting in PPP loan applications and introducing low-cost private lending through SpotOn Capital. Most recently, SpotOn partnered with the U.S. Small Business Administration to help their clients gain easier access to federal aid through the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. With their particiption in Guy's Restaurant Reboot, SpotOn continues its mission to give restaurant owners a fighting chance to do what they love, and make a living doing it.



Guy's Restaurant Reboot will inspire and empower the next generation of restaurant owners. During the special, SpotOn will present Behind The Counter Conversations with Guy Fieri, where he'll discuss industry trends and restaurant technology with leading chefs and restaurateurs including Jose Andres, Cat Cora, Jon Taffer, Buddy Valastro, Alex Guarnaschelli, Antonia Lofasa, Robert Irvine, Matthew Kenney, Kevin Youkilis and more. SpotOn will also make a $25,000 donation to the Help Rebuild Restaurants Grant, helping one winner fulfill their dream of opening a new restaurant. The company will also provide all 11 winners with free SpotOn Restaurant POS services for a year, which include hardware and software to run their restaurant. "As the world reopens, restaurants are just beginning to recover, while still facing razor-thin operating margins and a labor shortage unlike any other," said Kevin Bryla, CMO and Head of Customer Experience at SpotOn. "Through Guy's Restaurant Reboot we hope to show restaurant owners how technology can help them streamline operations, manage labor costs more effectively, and enhance their guest experience, all while keeping more money in their pocket."

To help more aspiring restaurateurs get started, SpotOn is launching a special offer-new restaurant clients will receive a $500 instant rebate on the powerful SpotOn Restaurant POS. Visit spoton.com/guy to redeem the offer before September 30, 2021. Guy Fieri's Restaurant Reboot will air on June 12, 2021 beginning at 7PM EST on Facebook (News - Alert) via Guy Fieri's Facebook page or at GuysRestaurantReboot.com. It will also be simulcasted by LiveXLive across LiveXLive, YouTube, Twitch, TikTok, Twitter (News - Alert) , and more. About SpotOn SpotOn powers small- and midsize businesses (SMBs) with the digital tools they need to run and grow their business. The software and payments platform, coupled with a hands-on service model, offers end-to-end solutions which include marketing, website development, appointment scheduling, digital loyalty, review management, and both retail and restaurant point-of-sale (POS) solutions. SpotOn has employees and offices around the world, including San Francisco, Chicago, Mexico City, Detroit, Denver, and Krakow. For more information, visit www.spoton.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005330/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Zyxel Networks Wins 2021 TMCnet Teleworking Solutions Excellence Award

Zyxel Networks, a leader in delivering secure, AI- and cloud-powered business and home networking solutions, today announced that TMC, a global, integrated media company has named the Zyxel Networks Secure WiFi Service a winner of the 2021 TMCnet Teleworking Solutions Excellence Award presented by TMCnet. The TMCnet Teleworking Solutions Excellence Award honors available products that help ensure remote workers have access to the same communications and other corporate resources as they would in the office. Whether they are adjusting to new teleworking environments during the COVID-19 pandemic, or had previously adopted technologies in response to an already existing remote workforce trend, the products and services from winners of the 2021 Teleworking Solutions Excellence Award will enable businesses to effectively support their mobile and remote workforces. "We are excited that TMCnet has recognized our Secure WiFi (News - Alert) Service as one of the most innovative teleworking services available in the industry," explained David Soares, Vice President of North American Sales at Zyxel Networks. "Our new Secure WiFi feature gives the ability to create for home workers a drop-in Access Point (News - Alert) that sits alongside but completely separate to an existing home WiFi network. The office network SSID and security parameters are automatically extended to the home worker over a secure tunnel. This simplifies deployment by creating a plug-n-play solution while maintaining a high level of control over the security of remote workplaces. Secure WiFi is an easy and cost-effective teleworking solution." The ability to manage the company network and remote locations from a single, intuitive cloud-based platform lowers operating costs and reduces demands on IT support while maximizing productivity for both the organization and its employees. Employees working from home have the same user experience, the same security level, the same WiFi, and even the same IP address as in the office, which boosts productivity without burdening IT support. Secure WiFi enables businesses to implement teleworking strategies that reduce operational costs, maximize productivity and enhance employee satisfaction. "The TMCnet Teleworking Solutions Excellence Award recognizes the best and the most innovative products that this industry has to offer. Zyxel Networks has proven their commitment to quality and the further development of Teleworking Solutions industry through its Secure WiFi Service," stated Rich Tehrani, CEO, TMC (News - Alert) . "Congratulations to the entire team at Zyxel Networks for earning this great honor. I look forward to seeing more innovative solutions from them as they continue to contribute to the future of Teleworking," Tehrani added.



The 2021 TMCnet Teleworking Solutions Excellence Award will be highlighted on TMCnet and INTERNET TELEPHONY magazine's online news portal. For more information about Zyxel and its connectivity solutions, visit www.zyxel.com/us and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

About Zyxel Since their first day in business over 30 years ago, Zyxel has kept business and home users online with a focus on innovation and customer-centric service. In 1989, this was accomplished with analog modems. Today, the company combines the benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) and the cloud to deliver rapid, reliable, and secure networking solutions for business and home users. Zyxel is a global force in the communications market with an unrivaled international presence that includes:

- 150 markets served

- 1,000,000 businesses working smarter with Zyxel solutions

- 100 million devices creating global connections We're building the networks of tomorrow, unlocking potential, and meeting the needs of the modern workplace-powering people at work, play, and life. About INTERNET TELEPHONY magazine INTERNET TELEPHONY magazine has been the IP Communications Authority since 1998. Beginning with the first issue in February of 1998, INTERNET TELEPHONY has been providing unbiased views of the complicated converged communications space. INTERNET TELEPHONY offers rich content from solutions-focused editorial content to reviews on products and services from TMC Labs. INTERNET TELEPHONY magazine reaches more than 225,000 readers, including pass-along readers. For more information, please visit www.itmag.com. About TMC Through education, industry news, live events and social influence, global buyers rely on TMC's content-driven marketplaces to make purchase decisions and navigate markets. As a result, leading technology vendors turn to TMC for unparalleled branding, thought leadership and lead generation opportunities. Our in-person and online events deliver unmatched visibility and sales prospects for all participants. Through our custom lead generation programs, we provide clients with an ongoing stream of leads that turn into sales opportunities and build databases. Additionally, we bolster brand reputations with the millions of impressions from display advertising on our news sites and newsletters. Making TMC a 360 degree marketing solution, we offer comprehensive event and road show management services and custom content creation with expertly ghost-crafted blogs, press releases, articles and marketing collateral to help with SEO, branding, and overall marketing efforts. For more information about TMC and to learn how we can help you reach your marketing goals, please visit www.tmcnet.com and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter, @tmcnet. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005213/en/

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[May 27, 2021] 3BL Media's 100 Best Corporate Citizens Ranking Highlights the Power of Data-Driven Purpose

CALGARY, Alberta, May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Benevity, Inc., the leading provider of global corporate purpose software, is celebrating companies named to 3BL Medias 2021 list of 100 Best Corporate Citizens. Most notably, 43 Benevity clients have been named to the list, including nearly three quarters of those in the top 25.

The 100 Best Corporate Citizens ranking began in 1999 to assess environmental, social and governance (ESG) transparency and performance of the largest publicly traded companies in the United States. This year, they were evaluated based on data from 146 ESG factors that was made publicly available by the companies. Data-driven purpose is on the rise, says Sona Khosla, Chief Impact Officer at Benevity. Increased visibility from CEOs and Boards of Directors is prompting a new executive mindset on ESG, and corporate purpose professionals are leveling up their practice and measurement as result. We applaud 3BL for acknowledging the work being done in this area  not only by numerous companies that we work with at Benevity, but all those who have embraced 2021 as the Year of the S.



72% of companies in the top 25 are Benevity clients, including Accenture, CBRE, Citigroup, HP and Intel who each ranked first in their respective categories for Software & Services, Real Estate, Banks, Technology Hardware & Equipment and Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment. Notably, Intel has made the 100 Best Corporate Citizens list each year since 2009 and is the only company in the Russell 1000 to make the top 10 every year since 2012. This year, Intel earned its place in the No. 5 spot  up from No. 6 last year. The company also took home one of Benevitys 2020 Corporate Goodness Awards in recognition for finding unique, successful ways to help community causes and advance their social missions.

Its truly humbling to have such consistency in recognition for Intels long-standing dedication toward ESG transparency and performance, said Pia Wilson-Body, Intel Foundation president. Benevity has been powering our social initiatives since 2015, and enabled Intel employees to volunteer over 910,000 hours this past year, when community support was needed more than ever before. Between our Volunteer and Donation Matching programs, Intel Foundation contributed $28.9 million USD to communities worldwide in matched donations in 2020. About Benevity

Benevity, a certified B Corporation, is a leading provider of global corporate purpose software, providing the only integrated suite of community investment and employee, customer and nonprofit engagement solutions. A finalist in Fast Companys 2020 World Changing Ideas Awards, many iconic brands rely on Benevitys cloud solutions to power their purpose in ways that better attract, retain and engage todays diverse workforce, embed social action into their customer experiences and positively impact their communities. With software that is available in 20 languages, Benevity has processed more than 7 billion dollars in donations and 38 million hours of volunteering time, 340,000 positive actions and awarded one million grants to 303,000 nonprofits worldwide. Media Contact: Andrea Davis  Media & Communications Manager  1.403.966.5622  press@benevity.com



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[May 27, 2021] Mavrek is Set to Become One of the Greatest Wealth Creators in the Mid 21st Century

LOS ANGELES, Calif., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Following the release of Version 2.0 in the 2nd Quarter of 2021, Mavrek (pronounced Mav-rick), from DealMaker Playbook, Inc., is being hailed as a much-needed financial technology software solution. Mavrek is built for the small business owner and entrepreneur, as well as their trusted advisors, to manage and streamline the sale or purchase of a small business. Designed by investment bankers with over 25 years of mergers & acquisitions experience, Mavrek is the solution to a long-lasting inefficiency  the ability for small business owners to effectively sell or buy a business. At any given time, approximately 15% of all small businesses are for sale, with another 10% that would sell if presented with a reasonable offer. Given the more than 30 million small businesses in the United States and over 200 million small businesses worldwide, that represents a lot of unlocked wealth. A staggering 3 out of 4 businesses fail to sell their business successfully (SBA, 2020). Annually, that translates to millions of hardworking business owners failing to sell their buiness and tens of billions of dollars lost.



Mavrek is designed to eradicate the anecdotal deal process used by most small businesses and replace it with a proven six-step linear process that reverses the current failure rate, now enabling 3 out of 4 business owners to successfully close their deal. Mavrek's BETA and MVP products proved this point. "Mavrek is like the TurboTax process for the sale or purchase of a small business." Jim B., CPA

Mavrek is specifically designed to be intuitive and easy-to-use. Fully equipped with all the necessary steps, tasks, tools, and templates needed to close a business transaction, business owners and their trusted advisors (e.g., accountant, business broker, attorney, etc.) can navigate the software with ease, regardless of the user's level of experience. Mavrek is changing the way small businesses are bought and sold, eliminating the anecdotal deal process thereby significantly improving the chances of successful deal completion and unlocking untold amounts of capital. Hence, supporting the claim that Mavrek will be "one of the greatest wealth creators of the mid 21st century". For more information, please contact:

Jeff Diedenhofen

Mavrek, Inc.

8052948443

310697@email4pr.com

https://calendly.com/mavrek View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mavrek-is-set-to-become-one-of-the-greatest-wealth-creators-in-the-mid-21st-century-301300654.html SOURCE DealMaker Playbook, Inc.

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[May 27, 2021] SokuSwap Selects BSCstarter to Host IDO of SOKU Tokens...

San Francisco, CA, May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Soku Swap, a fully decentralized exchange, will be launching its IDO on BSCstarter on May 28, 2021, the first community-led fundraising platform. The launch will enable the DEX to unlock a new business model for its native token SOKU on the Binance Smart Chain (BSC). Photo Available Here Deployed on Ethereum and BSC networks, Soku Swap is a decentralized exchange that uses an automated market maker (AMM) to create liquidity pools of both BEP-20 and ERC-20 tokens. In addition, its native SOKU token allows holders to vote on changes or upcoming upgrades within its ecosystem. The platform will shortly launch SOKU tokens through an Initial DEX Offering (IDO) on BSCstarter's launchpad.



BSCstarter is one of the most active community-oriented token presale platforms for Binance Smart Chain tokens. Therefore, it presents an ideal way to raise capital for projects without strict KYC/AML rules. Besides, the BSC-tied ecosystem of BSCstarter makes it a viable option since Binance Smart Chain s currently the most used network in the blockchain space. Furthermore, by choosing the BSCstarter for the IDO launch, Soku Swap intends to benefit its traders and investors with one of the most advanced launchpads available.







About Soku Swap



Soku Swap is a decentralized exchange and a fork of Uniswap and PancakeSwap that lives on Ethereum Network and the Binance Smart Chain. It allows direct peer-to-peer cryptocurrency transactions to take place online, securely, and without the need for an intermediary. The exchange focuses on education and customer support while also rewarding users who stake LP tokens on the farm and make at least three trades a week with SOKU tokens.





About BSCstarter



BSCstarter, the first community-driven launchpad for Binance Smart Chain (BSC), providing projects access to funding opportunities without the hassle of bureaucratic hurdles, complex KYC requirements, and a manual selection process. BSCstarter's solution allows the community to determine which projects to list using collective due diligence and DYOR skills. BSCstarter provides a decentralized fundraising platform as meant to be: community-driven, open, and free with equal opportunity for all, ultimately empowering investors to filter through the messy landscape where rug pulls overshadow the potential of BSC's growing ecosystem.



### For more information about Soku Swap, please visit our website at sokuswap.finance or email Rafael Alcaraz, Ph.D., (Global CMO) at rafael@sokuswap.finance or Sammy Arora (Marketing Head) at sammy@sokuswap.finance



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[May 27, 2021] Foundation Wealth Partners Welcome New, Oakville-Based Advisor Team

Foundation Wealth Partners (Foundation Wealth) are pleased to welcome our new, Oakville-based advisor team, Foundation Wealth Partners - Oakville. Partners Geoff Dunlop, Ron Visser, Kevin Shao, and Rachel Neale, will join Foundation Wealth after having previously worked as a private wealth team at a major Canadian bank. The Oakville team's decision to join Foundation Wealth was driven by a desire to match their entrepreneurial drive with a firm that is committed to raising the quality of advice delivered in Canada. Foundation Wealth's turnkey business model positions our Partners to run an effective, efficient, and independent practice on a platform that is advantaged by technology. By providing support in areas such as operations, compliance, and real-estate, our partners can shift their focus on the relationships and strategies where their value is most impactful. "Independence was incredibly important to us", says Geoff Dunlop, a Partner and Private Wealth Manager with the Oakville team. "Operating independently allows us to deliver on the experience we promise to our clients. We are responsible for implementing investment strategies and providing advice that will allow our clients to achieve financial prosperity and see them transfer their wealth to the next generations. We are beholden to these families, and with their success s our priority, we grow. This is an incredible opportunity for us to realize our own potential; unrestrained and able to execute in a timely and effective manner. "



Foundation Wealth Partners CEO Jeff Gans also shared his enthusiasm over the announcement. "Partnering with a team that has the experience and entrepreneurial drive that Geoff, Ron, Kevin and Rachel bring is extremely exciting for us. Their commitment to providing integrated wealth planning to High-Net-Worth families aligns perfectly with the excellent service we wish to provide, and we look forward to working alongside them to deliver innovative solutions that meet the needs of their clients." Mr. Gans also commented on how he believes Foundation Wealth Partners is positioned for success in the evolving Wealth Management landscape in Canada. "Canadian Advisors are looking for more choice and control in how they deliver their client experience. Foundation Wealth has the digital technology and operational platform to manage the transition to independence and support our partners as they pave the way towards setting a new standard for advice in Canada. The Oakville team represents a significant milestone in the continued growth of Foundation Wealth Partners."

About Foundation Wealth Partners is an independent wealth management firm comprised of like-minded partners who work predominantly with affluent individuals, family offices, corporations, private pensions, and trusts. A leading technology platform, patient capital, and a turnkey business model allows partners to run their practices independently while receiving support from the partnership in areas such as operations, administration, compliance, and real-estate. Partners receive equity ownership in the firm (recognized annually), succession assurance, and financing for business growth and acquisition. Foundation Wealth provides a dedicated onboarding team, operational support and revenue guarantees to Partners in transition. Foundation Wealth Partners has offices located in Vancouver, Toronto, and Oakville. Foundation Wealth Partners can be reached at inquiries@foundationwealth.ca View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005544/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Insurity's Insurance Decisions Suite, Bridge Specialty Suite, Workers' CompXPress, and InsuranceEnterprise All Earn Top Marks in the 2021 Novarica Market Navigator Report for Property & Casualty Policy Administration Systems

Insurity, a leading provider of cloud-based software for insurance carriers, brokers, and MGAs, was recognized as a "Dominant Provider" and "Established Player" in the 2021 Novarica Market Navigator Report for Property & Casualty (P&C) policy administration systems. The Novarica Market Navigator Report assists P&C insurers in selecting the best providers based on vendor market position and solutions. Novarica awarded Insurity top recognition for four of its policy administration systems, more than any other provider. These solutions included Insurity's Insurance Decisions Suites, Bridge Specialty Suite, Workers' CompXPress, and InsuranceEnterprise. Instec, an Insurity company, also earned an "Established Player" recognition for its policy solution. The Novarica Market Navigator report for P&C policy administration systems provides an in-depth analysis of the available policy administratin systems for P&C insurers. Nearly 50 solutions were profiled and segmented into four categories: Dominant Providers, Established Players, Contenders, and New Entrants. Dominant Providers have strong market positions and momentum with well-known solutions. Established Players have generally been in the market longer and have substantial customer experience. Contenders have substantial customer experience and momentum. New Entrants represents emerging providers in this segment.



"Insurity is proud to be recognized by Novarica as a market leader for our policy administration solutions," said Ivan Latanision, Chief Product Officer at Insurity. "Insurity's demonstrated best-in-class policy solutions combine powerful capabilities for core policy, billing, and claims processing with built-in reporting and intuitive data analytics to offer insurers a complete end-to-end solution. Combined with our deep technical experience, this enables us to provide P&C insurers and their policyholders with exceptional service, support, and rapid growth." About Insurity

Insurity is a leading provider of cloud-based software and analytics for insurance carriers, brokers, and MGAs. Insurity is trusted by 15 of the top 25 P&C carriers in the US and has over 200 cloud-based deployments. Through its best-in-class digital platform and with unrivaled industry experience and thought leadership, Insurity is uniquely positioned to deliver exceptional value, empowering customers to focus on their core businesses, optimize their operations, and provide superior policyholder experiences. Insurity is a portfolio company of GI Partners. For more information, visit www.insurity.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005620/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Global Activist Investing Monthly Service: ESG Corner, Industry in Focus, Shareholder Resolutions, New Investments, The Month in Numbers, - ResearchAndMarkets.com

The "Activist Insight Monthly - The World's Only Monthly Magazine Dedicated to Global Activist Investing" newsletter has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Activist Insight Monthly was launched in 2012 to complement Activist Insight Online, and became the world's first monthly magazine dedicated to activist investing. Designed to provide expert qualitative research and exclusive insights into the mindsets of professionals in the activist investing space, Activist Insight Monthly ensures you are well informed on all fronts. Stay abreast of trends and developments in the space, monitor existing portfolio companies for activist activity, and generate new investment ideas with this popular and valuable addition to your armory. Activist Insight Monthly aims to provide a comprehensive overview of activist investments and activist short selling. The publication includes regular interviews with activists such as Elliott Management or Trian Partners, in-depth analysis of the most interesting campaigns, and data-led trend-pieces. News in brief, new investments, upcoming events, and an ESG corner give readers a handy insight into key developments while key market indicators signpost the direction of activism. There is no better way to maintain an interest in activism in a compact and manageable format. Key Features In-depth features on hot topics in activist investing

Exclusive interviews with activists, intermediaries and investors

Spotlight on both long and short activist campaigns

Dedicated analysis on companies vulnerable to activism

The latest news in both long and short activist investing

Comprehensive list of new activist investments

Key statistics and infographics on shareholder activism

Insightful contributions from industry professionals

Fully interactive with external links for further information

Back issue archive Target Audience (News - Alert) Includes: Investment banks, lawfirms, investment managers and issuers and their advisors.



Key Topics Covered: Editor's Letter

Feature Article

Interview with activists/activist professionals

Industry in focus

Campaign to Watch

Shareholder Resolutions

News summary - North America/Europe/RoW

News summary - short investments

New investments

New Short Investments

ESG Corner

The month in numbers Companies Mentioned

21st Century Fox

Alta Fox Capital Management

Apple (News - Alert)

Bulldog Investors

Carl Icahn

Cevian

Clinton Group

ebay

Elliott Management

Exxon Mobil

GAMCO

GameStop

Jana Partners

Kerry Group

Pershing Square

Starboard

Third Point

ValueAct Testimonials Great articles on shareholder activism. Carl Icahn, Founder - Icahn Enterprises Activist Insight has been a great resource in helping to both identify and track the histories of activist investors. They are particularly adept at tracking campaigns in markets outside North America, which is often difficult. Their daily news summary is the first thing I read every morning. Steve Balet, Managing Director - Formerly of FTI Consulting I've been impressed by the thoroughness and accuracy of Activist Insight's research. I believe Activist Insight Monthly is 'must read' information both for activists and the advisory firms increasingly providing services around shareholder activism. Greg Taxin, Managing Member - Spotlight Advisors Activist Insight's customer service is top notch. Responses have been quite timely with representatives readily available to respond to questions related to data from the company's online database. Carla Norfleet Taylor, Senior Director - Fitch Ratings Activist Insight Shorts is a very useful service, which follows, sends immediate alerts about, and maintains archives of every activist short campaign. Whitney Tilson, Founder & Managing Partner - Kase Capital As a strategic advisory firm engaged in helping corporate clients communicate with activists, or in some cases, square off with them in public or private battles, we find Activist Insight to be an excellent resource. By compiling all of the information needed to understand each activist's typical approach, Activist Insight helps us shorten the research process as we develop the strategic plan to achieve a desirable outcome for our clients. Maureen T. Wolff, President - Sharon Merrill Associates Activist Insight has provided our staff with access to focused information on global activists, helping us keep track of funds' activities, holdings of interest, and the performance track record of influential funds. Michael McCauley, Senior Officer - State Board of Administration of Florida Love the product! Cas Sydorowitz, Chief Executive Officer - Georgeson Activist Insight is an invaluable resource for our event-driven company research. They are the first to capture relevant activist filings and have the most comprehensive database of activist profiles and activist target companies. Brian Luster, Founder and Former CEO - APB Financial Group We place great importance on the information of Activist Insight, which we find useful for our analysis and research. IR Specialist, Japan Activist Insight Monthly is published 11 times a year and is delivered electronically. For more information about this newsletter visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/vndz7x View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005622/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Sentar Wins Multiple FedHealthIT Innovation Awards

Sentar Inc. (Sentar), one of the fastest growing cybersecurity and intelligence solutions providers in the national security sector, has been selected by FedHealthIT for multiple 2021 Innovation Awards in collaboration with the Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) and Defense Health Agency (DHA). Selected by a panel of current and former Federal and Industry leaders from across the Federal health IT sector, awards were received for 1) The Medical Community of Interest (Med-COI) Transition Risk Assessment Process (MTRAP), 2) The Enterprise Intelligence and Data Solutions PMO, and 3) The Cyber Operations Center (CyOC). DHA is currently migrating Military Treatment Facilities (MTF) into a DoD Joint Information Environment (JIE) Medical Community of Interest (Med-COI) architecture, which requires the creation of a standardized process for 134 locations to successfully migrate services and maintain effective cybersecurity posture. Known as the Med-COI Transition Risk Assessment Process (MTRAP), this innovative approach effectively facilitates DHA Risk Management Framework (RMF) authorizations across a constantly evolving cyber landscape comprised of 700+ systems of record including over 200,000 endpoints. The process fuels the ability to obtain authorizations, provide continuous monitoring, and allows senior leadership in the medical community to make informed cyber risk-based decisions within the RMF construct, reducing a typical 9-12-month cycle of introducing medical systems to the enterprise to as little as one month. Sentar is also contributing cybersecurity expertise to its government partners NIWC and DHA through the Enterprise Intelligence and Data Solutions (EIDS) Project Management Office. EIDS is an innovator with impactful leadership, business intelligence, and transformational technology that enable informed decisions for delivery of health services to 9.6 mllion MHS beneficiaries, including warfighters and their families. The EIDS/NIWC Atlantic partnership enabled rapid responses to emerging threats such as COVID-19 and solutions for cyber vulnerabilities resulting from aging infrastructure, resulting in an accelerated migration to new technology, data sets, and cloud-based service delivery. Sentar's third innovation being recognized is the Cyber Operations Center (CyOC). Previously named a 2019 FedHealthIT Innovation award winner, the CyOC team, comprised of Sentar, NIWC, and DHA professionals, has significantly improved how higher-level cyber issuances are released, tracked at program and site levels, addressed, and reported across the enterprise. As a result, the CyOC has increased DHA compliance across the board for issuance management, Scorecard reporting, Vulnerability Disclosure Program (VDP) management, and Public Key Infrastructure identification. Due to the program's success, JFHQ DoDIN recognized the CyOC as a representative best-practices standard against which other agencies are compared.



Sentar and its government customers will be accepting the awards virtually on June 22-23, 2021 at the 7th annual FedHealthIT Innovation awards, where Sentar is the platinum sponsor. This event brings together more than 300 senior Federal Health leaders from Government and industry to help celebrate and recognize the top Federal Health programs and the teams behind these innovative efforts in support of Veterans Affairs, Military Health, Health and Human Services, and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. The event celebrates the programs that are achieving unparalleled access and elevating functional efficiencies through models that are modern, secure, and scalable.

About Sentar, Inc. Sentar is one of the fastest-growing cyber intelligence, analytics and operations solutions providers focused on the National Security sector. Its cyber domain solutions blend expertise in cybersecurity, intelligence, analytics, and systems engineering into holistic solutions that combine these disciplines to deliver superior results to mission partners. Key clients include the Defense Health Agency, the U.S. Army, the U.S. Navy, and Missile Defense Agency. Sentar has offices in Huntsville, Alabama; Charleston, South Carolina; Columbia, Maryland; and San Antonio, Texas. Visit www.sentar.com for more information. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005305/en/

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 18:40:29|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

KIEV, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Ukraine held military drills in the northwest Rivne region, Ukrinform news agency reported on Wednesday.

"Today we have used the weapons that we already have to improve the skills and abilities of staff commanders to use these weapons, to use them effectively, to maximize losses to the enemy and to save the troops," said Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Col. Gen. Ruslan Khomchak.

Khomchak stressed that Ukrainian troops have been training according to NATO standards for more than a year.

About 2,000 servicemen took part in the drills using 150 pieces of armaments and military equipment. Enditem
[May 27, 2021] A Time to Celebrate the Students! Destinations Career Academy of Colorado Class of 2021 Ready to Move Forward

After a school year like no other, Destinations Career Academy of Colorado (CODCA), an online public school serving 6-12 grade students throughout the state since 2011, will celebrate its graduates both virtually and in-person with a commencement ceremony on May 28 beginning at 10:30 am. The in-person ceremony will be held at Colorado School of Mines in a safe, socially-distant way, and individual time slots will be given to students to be recognized by staff. There is no requirement or obligation to attend. "While other schools may have struggled with online learning throughout the year, CODCA never missed a day of instruction, which kept our students motivated, excited, and moving forward," said CODCA Head of School Teri Cady. "And not only did our students stay the course, but they also have earned valuable college and career readiness skills that will put the far ahead of their peers at the next level, in whatever path they choose." This year, CODCA will graduate 105 students. Approximately 17 students will graduate with a cumulative GPA above 3.5. Collectively, the graduating class reports it has been accepted to colleges and universities across Colorado and beyond, including Colorado School of Mines, Colorado State University, University of Hawaii, and Grand Canyon University. Dominique Belasquez and Susanna Hericks are CODCA's 2021 co-valedictorians. Dominique plans to attend School of Mines in the fall and Susanna will be taking a gap year to travel. The Salutatorian is Garrett Swetky and he has already secured a job in construction. The two keynote speakers wil be Shaun McAlmont, Stride's President of Career Learning, and Colorado State Treasurer Dave Young.



"This year was a whole new kind of struggle and we all couldn't have gone through it without the continued support of our teachers at CODCA," said Dominique Belasquez. "I'll forever be grateful that they helped me move onto the next level of my education." Prior to the pandemic, students enrolled in virtual school for a number of reasons-some were looking to escape bullying, some may have fallen academically off track, and others were looking for an alternative to the traditional classroom setting.

CODCA students access a robust online curriculum in the core subjects and a host of electives and attend live virtual classes taught by state-certified teachers. Details of the graduation ceremonies are as follows: WHAT: Destinations Career Academy of Colorado 2021 Graduation Ceremony WHEN: Graduation Ceremony - Friday, May 28th, 2021, 10:30 AM for names A-K WHEN: Graduation Ceremony - Friday, May 28th, 2021, 1:30 PM for names L-Z. CONTACT: For any questions about the celebrations, please contact Adelita Shepherd at ashepherd@k12.com or Renee Breur at rbreur@k12.com. For media inquiries, please contact Ken Schwartz at kschwartz@k12.com. About Destinations Career Academy of Colorado Destinations Career Academy of Colorado (CODCA) is an accredited, full-time public school program of the Julesburg School District that serves Colorado students in grades 6-12. As part of the Colorado public school system, CODCA is tuition-free, and gives parents and families the choice to access the curriculum provided by provided by K12, a Stride Company (NYSE: LRN). Stride offers learners of all ages a more effective way to learn and build their skills for the future. For more information about CODCA, visit codca.k12.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005001/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Updated Action1 RMM Enhances Remote Workforce Security and Business Continuity

HOUSTON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Action1 Corporation, provider of a cloud-based remote monitoring and management (RMM) solution, today released a new version of its RMM platform. The updated Action1 RMM enables MSPs and internal IT departments to minimize the risk of cyberattacks exploiting unauthorized applications or unpatched vulnerabilities in drivers and firmware on remote endpoints. In addition, enhanced patch management capabilities ensure continuity of business processes while reducing IT workload. The updated Action1 RMM contains more than 250 improvements, including user experience and reliability enhancements. New features available in Action1 RMM enable organizations to: Mitigate the risks of shadow IT

Organizations can remotely detect and remove unauthorized applications installed on corporate devices  even if they were installed within the user's profile  before they can be misused by employees or exploited by hackers. This allows IT administrators to switch to machine-wide installs supported and updated via Action1 RMM.

Organizations can remotely detect and remove unauthorized applications installed on corporate devices  even if they were installed within the user's profile  before they can be misused by employees or exploited by hackers. This allows IT administrators to switch to machine-wide installs supported and updated via Action1 RMM. Secure remote drivers and firmware

IT teams can also ensure that reote drivers and firmware are promptly and reliably patched, further reducing the risk of successful cyberattacks.

IT teams can also ensure that reote drivers and firmware are promptly and reliably patched, further reducing the risk of successful cyberattacks. Minimize business disruptions during patch deployment





Users who happen to be logged on when patches are deployed to their device can postpone reboot (up to the maximum time defined by the IT administrator) so they can smoothly complete their current tasks. If no user is logged on during patch deployment, the machine will be rebooted automatically.

Users who happen to be logged on when patches are deployed to their device can postpone reboot (up to the maximum time defined by the IT administrator) so they can smoothly complete their current tasks. If no user is logged on during patch deployment, the machine will be rebooted automatically. Automate remote deployment of Windows feature updates

IT teams can roll out Windows updates, such as upgrading to Windows 10 20H2, to all endpoints, automatically and securely. Furthermore, the new version contains 250+ improvements, including user experience and reliability enhancements. "Remote work poses a range of security risks, from employee negligence to hackers breaching remote computers," said Mike Walters, President of Action1 Corporation. "This modern business reality is forcing IT teams and MSPs to rethink their approach to endpoint management and to search for cloud-based RMM solutions that enable them to monitor and manage both their remote and in-office endpoints. The new release of Action1 RMM will help them address these challenges effectively."

The new version of Action1 RMM is available now. Organizations with up to 50 endpoints get a free Action1 RMM license without limitations or hidden costs. To learn more about Action1 RMM, please visit www.action1.com. About Action1 Corporation Action1 provides a cloud-based solution for remote monitoring and management (RMM) that includes automated patch management, remote desktop access, software deployment and distribution, IT asset inventory, network monitoring, reporting, and more. The company was founded by Netwrix cybersecurity veterans Alex Vovk and Mike Walters in 2018 to give companies and MSPs worldwide a modern alternative to traditional on-premises solutions that do not function in remote workforce scenarios. For more information, please visit www.action1.com or call 1-346-444-8530. ? Contact:? press@action1.com ? View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/updated-action1-rmm-enhances-remote-workforce-security-and-business-continuity-301300375.html SOURCE Action1 Corporation

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[May 27, 2021] Docker Expands Trusted Content Offerings for Developers

PALO ALTO, Calif., May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Docker, Inc. today announced an expansion of the companys trusted-content offerings for software developers. Among todays announcements is the launch of the Docker Verified Publisher program, which provides access to Docker differentiated and trusted content that developers can leverage as reliable building blocks for their applications. Datadog, Red Hat and VMware are the latest three publishers to join a program that has seen 100 companies join in the last six months. Adding to trusted content distributed through Docker, the company also announced the upcoming availability of Docker Official Images into public and private registries from Amazon Web Services, Inc. (AWS) and Mirantis. In a separate press release, Docker announced updates and enhancements to the Docker Collaborative Application Development Platfor m .

We are thrilled to announce the Docker Verified Publisher programs availability to even more publishers and the distribution of Docker Official Images to even more developers through even more registries, said Docker CEO Scott Johnston. This greatly expands choice for developers to complement Docker Official Images and solidifies the Docker platform and Docker Hub as the de facto standard for trusted, secure container images. Secure software supply chains are becoming increasingly important to development teams as they work to lower the risk of exposure to malicious content while they build applications. Using reliable content at every stage ensures applications are secure and minimizes time and money spent on resolving security issues. With Docker, developers no longer need to worry about the source of their images. Instead they can quickly and confidently discover and use images in their applications from known, trusted sources. Docker Verified Publisher offerings include popular developer components such as Bitnami and Spring software from VMWare, RedHat Universal Base Images (UBI), Canonical Ubuntu and more. Leveraging the success of Docker Official Images and the existing Docker Open Source program , the Docker Verified Publisher program extends to commercial content incorporating trusted solutions for developers that are part of the application delivery pipeline. With the Docker Verified Publisher program, developers can build, share and run applications quickly with confidence  knowing that each component is secure at every stage of the software supply chain. Millions of developers rely on Docker Hub as their primary source for trusted content, including Docker Official Images and Docker Verified Publisher images. Developers will soon have the flexibility to download these images from their choice of registry including Amazon Elastic Container Registry Public (Amazon ECR Public) and Mirantis Secure Registry . This offers developers the ultimate flexibility to benefit from the trusted content provided by Docker using the registry of their preference.



With over 200 ISVs using Docker Hub to distribute their software to developers, users who see the Docker Verified Publisher badge know that the images they are pulling come straight from, and are supported by, the publisher. With 13 billion image pulls per month from nearly 8 million repositories by more than 13 million developers, Docker Hub is the industrys leading public container registry. Docker Hub delivers developers the largest breadth and depth of container images and plays a central role in building and sharing cloud-native applications. Trusted Content Powered By Docker

Nick Coult, General Manager, Amazon ECR & Amazon ECR Public, AWS

Our customers expect the highest levels of availability and performance for their container applications, and a container registry is one of the key elements of performance and availability for many customers adopting containers. With Amazon ECR and Amazon ECR Public, AWS customers can rely on a highly available, high performance container artifact registry that works with their container applications. And soon, AWS customers using the Docker Official Images can take advantage of the high availability and fast downloads of Amazon ECR Public. Michael Gerstenhaber, Senior Director of Product Management, Datadog

More than half of applications run on containerized infrastructure, and Docker Hub is the primary source for container images, according to our published studies. It is critical that we provide a secure and robust source for our images, and we are excited to be recognized as a Docker Verified Publisher. You can find any Datadog image to start securely monitoring the performance of your infrastructure and applications." Adam Parco, CTO, Mirantis

Developers are increasingly reliant on container images to quickly deploy cloud native applications. Were excited to have our Mirantis Secure Registry be part of the Docker Verified Publisher. This initiative lowers the risk of exposure to malicious content and gives developers confidence by ensuring applications are secure and minimizing the time and money spent on resolving security issues. Mithun Dhar, Vice President and General Manager, Developer Business Unit, Red Hat

With cloud-native applications being deployed into production across industries, we see development teams increasingly looking for container content that is based on trusted, reliable and verified code. Built from Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Red Hat Universal Base Images provide the foundation to create the next wave of enterprise-ready cloud-native applications, and were pleased to be able to bring UBI to Docker Hub users as part of Dockers Verified Publisher program. Ashok Aletty, Vice President of Engineering, VMware

VMware is pleased to join the Docker Verified Publishers program. This provides developers unrestricted access to our artifacts, and allows them to safely adopt the popular open-source technologies weve made available. We are excited that VMware Tanzu customers, in particular, will benefit from a wider range of complementary services they can leverage as they quickly get apps to market. Join the Docker Verified Publisher program

Software publishers and ISVs interested in joining the Docker Verified Publisher program can get more information by visiting https://www.docker.com/partners . DockerCon Live 2021

Join us for DockerCon Live 2021 on Thursday, May 27. DockerCon Live is a free, one day virtual event that is a unique experience for developers and development teams who are building the next generation of modern applications. If you want to learn about how to go from code to cloud fast and how to solve your development challenges, DockerCon Live 2021 offers engaging live content to help you build, share and run your applications. Register today at https://dockr.ly/2PSJ7vn Resources: Learn how to be a Docker Verified Publisher at https://www.docker.com/partners

Blog: Welcome Canonical to Docker Hub and the Docker Verified Publisher Program

Blog: New Docker and JFrog Partnership Designed to Improve the Speed and Quality of App Development Processes

About Docker

Docker helps millions of developers efficiently and collaboratively build, share and run applications. The Docker collaborative application development platform provides developers with an unmatched experience for an integrated, reliable and secure workflow that accelerates app delivery from code to the cloud. Through a combination of the worlds largest marketplace of components and integrations with leading tools, Docker allows teams to rapidly create innovative applications. For more information, visit www.docker.com

Media Contact David Oro press@docker.com

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[May 27, 2021] ArmorCode Launches Partner Program to Deliver Next-Generation Application Security Solution to Enterprises Worldwide

PALO ALTO, Calif., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- ArmorCode, the Silicon Valley startup delivering application security at the speed of DevOps, today announced that it has launched its channel and integration partner program enabling the expansion of its next-generation application security platform for enterprises worldwide. 3K Technologies  which specializes in application security consulting and implementation services including DevSecOps and secure development practices  has joined as a premier early partner. A new technical integration with ShiftLeft, a leader in application security, will help enterprises benefit from application security solutions designed for the needs of both security teams and developers. ArmorCode's Intelligent Application Security Platform currently integrates with more than 60 security products and collaboration platforms. "We're excited to be working with ArmorCode to continue our mission to streamline application security. Their goal to simplify and clarify the AppSec stack perfectly complements our platform approach to code security. We look forward to executing on this shared vision together," said Alok Shukla, Vice President of Product at ShiftLeft. The ArmorCode Partner Program is designed to incentivize channel partners, resellers, and systems integrators to help their clients adopt Application Security Posture Management, DevSecOps Orchestration, and Continuous Compliance best practices. The partnership program will help ArmorCode scale rapidly to meet increasing demand for the AppSec platforms that enable companies to build secure software in an agile manner. Partner benefits from ArmorCode's new programs include new deal registration, which offers partners a competitive margin for their investment as well as loyalty tiering, allowing for a more predictable investment apprach. Partner types include:



System Integrators delivering complete DevOps to DevSecOps migration solutions

MSSPs integrating ArmorCode into service programs

Technology Partners offering complementary portfolio solutions to enterprise customers

Consulting Partners delivering security strategy services to enterprise customers "ArmorCode's platform efficiently solves various challenges in the cybersecurity world today: end users saturated with AppSec products that don't interoperate; alert fatigue from many AppSec products; and an insufficient supply of experienced staff," said Murali Gomatam, President at 3K Technologies, a leading system integration services provider. "With ArmorCode's Channel and Integration Partner Programs, 3K Technologies can offer customers a practical solution to build scalable and manageable application security programs that will drive efficiency for developers and security teams and further maximize the effectiveness of many of the partner solutions we offer today." The Partner Program announcement comes on the heels of the company's emergence from stealth with $3 million in venture capital funding earlier this month; new enterprise customers including ChargePoint and Shutterfly; and key achievements including SOC 2 Type II security compliance, which demonstrates that an independent auditing firm has examined the company's security activities and tested them to ensure that its platform meets necessary compliance requirements for large enterprises.

"ArmorCode's collaboration with ShiftLeft signals our common commitment to provide enhanced application security for all users. We are eager to expand this operation and allow customers to leverage the most helpful tools from each company," said Nikhil Gupta, co-founder and CEO of ArmorCode. "ArmorCode has seen strong interest from the leading channel partners across the spectrum of resellers, systems integrations, security consultants, and referral partners, as well as key strategic technology partners. With our growing channel and partner strategy, ArmorCode will enable their customers to regain control of their application security challenges to rapidly adopt secure application best practices at the speed of DevOps." For more information about the ArmorCode Partner Program, please visit armorcode.com/partners. About ArmorCode

ArmorCode is delivering application security at the speed of DevOps. Founded in 2020 in Palo Alto, California, the company offers security professionals a centralized platform for Application Security Posture Management; DevSecOps Orchestration; and Continuous Compliance. With ArmorCode, enterprises can radically simplify and accelerate application security while cutting costs by as much as 55%. ArmorCode is used by global brands and backed by leading VC firms. To learn more, please visit armorcode.com. Media Contact:

Aaron Endre

aaron@aaronendre.com Related Images armorcode-logo.png

ArmorCode logo

ArmorCode logo View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/armorcode-launches-partner-program-to-deliver-next-generation-application-security-solution-to-enterprises-worldwide-301301035.html SOURCE ArmorCode

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[May 27, 2021] GRSi Named Government Contractor of the Year

BETHESDA, Md., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- GRSi earned the top spot as Government Contracting Company of the Year at the 2021 Industry Awards Celebration (IAC) held by Maryland Tech Council (MTC). This is GRSi's first year winning this prestigious MTC award, although the company has been previously honored four times as a top-five government contractor. GRSi's President and CEO David Affeldt is also no stranger to the IAC, having won CEO of the Year in 2019. This honor comes following another record year of performance in 2020 and at the end of a stellar Q1 2021 for the GRSi team, in which the company won $231 million in contract awards  realizing over 30% growth within the first 90 days of the year. This record performance includes landmark awards, with an $82 million Defense Programs award, a $96 million Health IT award, and multiple new programs delivering innovation, engineering, and support. "GRSi is thrilled to receive this recognition of the amazing efforts of all of our teams coast to coast. Having grown from a garage-based tech company to a leader in technical innovation and services for critical government missions, this award is a true pinnacle milestone, especally considering Maryland Tech Council's focus on science and technology and the field of incredible companies in Maryland. We congratulate all the finalists, awardees, and we thank the Tech Council for their continued support of STEM, our industries, and the great state of Maryland." - David Affeldt, President and CEO



The Maryland Tech Council is a collaborative community that is actively engaged in building strong technology and life sciences industries. MTC is the largest technology and life sciences trade association in the state of Maryland. GRSi's professional technical and engineering services deliver next-generation systems engineering, cybersecurity, technology insertion, and best practices-based Enterprise Operations (EOps) management. Our worldwide top-talent brings proven agility and innovation while maintaining compliance and governance. GRSi stabilizes, optimizes, and transforms our clients' environments, realizing their must-have objectives of resilient, reliable, and forward-leaning technical efficiencies.

GRSi has delivered excellence in professional and technical services for nearly two decades to federal, defense, intelligence, and commercial clients worldwide. Our subject matter experts, refined processes, and best-fit technology implementations ensure that excellence is delivered daily. For more information, contact media@grsi.com. Related Images

grsi-expect-excellence.jpg

GRSi  Expect Excellence View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/grsi-named-government-contractor-of-the-year-301301041.html SOURCE GRSi

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[May 27, 2021]

Government of Canada supports cleantech innovation and jobs growth across the country

Strategic investments help position Canada as leader in growing sectors of the low-carbon, sustainable economy

OTTAWA, ON, May 27, 2021 /CNW/ - As Canada recovers from the global pandemic, the Government of Canada is investing in innovative clean technologies to grow the greener and cleaner economy of the future. These Canadian companies are advancing our global leadership in the fast-growing clean technology market and helping to create good jobs for Canadians.

Today, the Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, joined Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) Chair Annette Verschuren and SDTC President and CEO Leah Lawrence to announce investments of $44.3 million in 11 Canadian cleantech companies that are leading breakthrough Canadian cleantech innovations.

The funding announced today will support small and medium-sized businesses that are reducing greenhouse gas emissions, reducing the environmental impacts of energy exploration and production, supporting more sustainable agricultural practices, and responding to a wide range of important challenges.

Among the 11 companies that SDTC is funding today:

Terramera Inc. of Vancouver, British Columbia , will receive $7.9 million to develop a soil carbon validation tool;

, will receive to develop a soil carbon validation tool; Pyrogenesis Canada Inc. of Montreal, Quebec , will receive $0.7 million to pioneer a new plasma process for the production of fumed silica;

, will receive to pioneer a new plasma process for the production of fumed silica; Molded Precision Components of Oro-Medonte, Ontario , will receive $9.3 million for its Pellet-to-Pallet Green Advanced Manufacturing of Plastics initiative;

, will receive for its Pellet-to-Pallet Green Advanced Manufacturing of Plastics initiative; Flyscan System Inc. of Quebec City will receive $1.5 million for an aerial detector of liquid pipeline leaks; and

will receive for an aerial detector of liquid pipeline leaks; and Axine Water Technologies Inc. of Vancouver, British Columbia , will receive $6.2 million for the development and demonstration of a second generation, digitized wastewater treatment system.

The Minister held a virtual roundtable discussion with Canadian cleantech CEOs and entrepreneurs who are receiving SDTC funding to advance their innovations. These cleantech leaders discussed how these technologies are revolutionizing every sector of the economy, from Ecoation's AI-powered greenhouse management system, to QEA Tech's smart drone platform that detects building energy loss, to Environmental Material Science's novel process that accelerates the natural breakdown of pollutants in soil.







Today's support builds on the government's strengthened climate plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, announced in December 2020. The plan included the single largest investment in SDTC since its inception  $750 million over five years  enabling the foundation to support more Canadian entrepreneurs than ever before as they create and commercialize clean technologies and bring Canadian innovations to the world.

Quotes

"Climate change is one of the greatest threats to Canadians and our economy, and Canadian innovation will be a key driver in the fight for a greener and cleaner future. Canadian cleantech innovation will be the driving force behind our green economic recovery. It will not only create thousands of good jobs, but also help build a sustainable future. With the investment we are making today, we are supporting the Canadian innovators who are helping to achieve our ambitious goal of a net-zero economy by 2050."

 The Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

"It is no surprise Canadian cleantech innovation is one of the best in the world. Today's investment will ensure we continue to strengthen Canadian entrepreneurship and empower cleantech innovators to lead the global path to net zero. Congratulations to all the companies receiving funding today, we are inspired by your commitment and dedication to sustainable development and are proud to support you on this journey."

 Leah Lawrence, President and CEO, Sustainable Development Technology Canada

Quick facts

Roundtable participants in the virtual discussion included Saber Miresmailli, cofounder and CEO of Ecoation Innovative Solutions, Louis Brun , cofounder and CEO of Sollum Technologies, David Yeaman , president and owner of Molded Precision Components, and Nuha Siddiqui , cofounder and CEO of Erthos.

, cofounder and CEO of Sollum Technologies, , president and owner of Molded Precision Components, and , cofounder and CEO of Erthos. The global clean technology market is set to exceed $2.5 trillion by 2022.

by 2022. Clean technology companies currently employ more than 211,000 Canadians in rewarding, well-paying jobs.

SDTC is an independent federal foundation that funds companies with potential to become world leaders in environmental technologies and help solve some of the planet's most pressing environmental challenges, such as climate change, clean air, clean water and clean soil.

SDTC-supported companies have generated $2.7 billion in annual revenues, created 14,628 jobs, brought 150 new technologies to market and reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 19.3 megatonnes of CO 2 annually.

in annual revenues, created 14,628 jobs, brought 150 new technologies to market and reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 19.3 megatonnes of CO annually. The world is taking notice of Canada's leadership in clean technology  11 Canadian companies, nine of which have been funded by SDTC, were recently placed on the 2021 Global Cleantech 100 list.

Associated links

Stay connected

Follow Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada on Twitter: @ISED_CA

Follow Sustainable Development Technology Canada on Twitter: @SDTC_TDDC

SOURCE Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
G&A Partners Adds Kaiser Permanente HMO Plans to California Offerings

G&A Partners, a leading professional employer organization (PEO) and human resources outsourcing (HRO) provider, announced today it has entered into an agreement with the Kaiser Permanente Network (Kaiser) to offer its California-based worksite employees another medical insurance option.

G&A Partners' clients that employ California workers may now offer three different Kaiser HMO plans to eligible employees, alongside G&A Partners' Anthem Blue Cross master plans. These new plans give California employees additional high-quality healthcare options at affordable rates.

Each Kaiser healthcare plan includes 24/7 care through telehealth access to Kaiser providers, along with email and video visits. Members can also receive in-person care at any Target (News - Alert) Clinic for their added convenience.

"We are excited to offer these new benefit options through Kaiser to our clients and their worksite employees," said Grace Jaen, vice president of health and welfare for G&A Partners. "More affordable healthcare options usually translate into higher participation rates, which will lead to a healthier workforce and a more profitable bottom line. Kaiser also offers self-care mobile apps and online and telehealth options that will be incredibly useful for plan members who are struggling with physical or mental health or who fear visiting doctors in person due to the pandemic."

Withoffices in Riverside, Calif., G&A Partners works with small to medium-sized businesses across multiple industry sectors statewide, offering HR outsourcing, benefits, worksite compliance, risk services and more.







About G&A Partners

G&A Partners, one of the nation's leading professional employer organizations (PEO), has been helping entrepreneurs grow their businesses for more than 25 years. By delivering world-class services with trusted experts in HR administration, payroll, and benefits, clients now have the time and freedom they need to focus on what matters most-their employees, products and services, and their customers.

Headquartered in Houston, G&A Partners has offices throughout Texas, as well as in Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, Nevada, Tennessee, Utah, Wisconsin, and Latin America.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005221/en/
[May 27, 2021] Government of Canada invests nearly $3.2 million to bring high-speed Internet to 689 more homes in the Thunder Bay region

Ontarians in rural communities to benefit from increased connectivity OTTAWA, ON, May 27, 2021 /CNW/ - The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted how much we rely on our connections. Now more than ever, Canadians across the country need access to reliable high-speed Internet as many of us are working, learning, and staying in touch with friends and family from home. Right now, too many Canadians living in rural and remote communities lack access to high-speed Internet. Through the Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) Rapid Response Stream, the Government of Canada is taking immediate action to get Canadians connected to the high-speed Internet they need. Today, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Health and Member of Parliament for Thunder BaySuperior North, on behalf of the Honourable Maryam Monsef, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Rural Economic Development, announced almost $3.2 million in federal funding for Tbaytel to bring high-speed Internet to residents of rural communities north of Thunder Bay, Ontario. This project will connect 689 underserved households in the communities of Lappe and Toimela to high-speed Internet. The Universal Broadband Fund was launched in November 2020. The project being announced today was approved within six months of the formal launch of the now $2.75-billion program. Projects funded under the UBF, as well as through other public and private investments, will help connect 98% of Canadians to high-speed Internet by 2026 and achieve the national target of 100% connectivity by 2030. Today's announcement builds on the progress the Government of Canada has already made to improve critical infrastructure in Ontario. Since 2015, the federal government has invested more than $2.85 billion in over 4,060 infrastructure projects in Ontario communities with a population of fewer than 100,000 people. These investments mean 452 km of new or upgraded roads that are making our communities safer; more than 938 projects to provide residents with cleaner, more sustainable sources of drinking water; and more than 5,427 additional housingunits built in rural communities, helping ensure all Ontarians have a safe place to call home.



Quotes "High-speed Internet is essential for Northern Ontario. It connects us to work, school and each other. Today's investment will provide reliable access to 689 households north of Thunder Bay. This project is part of our commitment of $250 million to more than 40 connectivity projects in Ontario that will connect over 90,000 more households to better, more reliable Internet."

 The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Health and Member of Parliament for Thunder BaySuperior North

"We're proud to be able to bring fibre right to the doors of 689 customers in the rural Thunder Bay area. The areas include addresses north of Thunder Bay city limits and were selected as shovel-ready projects that could be completed this year in order to meet funding criteria. We encourage residents to visit our website to see the exact service boundaries that will be covered. Tbaytel would like to thank the Government of Canada for its investment in this vital infrastructure and the people of Northern Ontario for their continued support of Tbaytel."

 Dan Topatigh, President and CEO, Tbaytel

Quick facts Canada's Connectivity Strategy aims to provide all Canadians with access to Internet speeds of at least 50 megabits per second (Mbps) download / 10 Mbps upload.

Connectivity Strategy aims to provide all Canadians with access to Internet speeds of at least 50 megabits per second (Mbps) download / 10 Mbps upload. The Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) is a $2.75-billion investment designed to help connect all Canadians to high-speed Internet. Applications to the UBF were accepted until March 15, 2021 , and are now being evaluated.

investment designed to help connect all Canadians to high-speed Internet. Applications to the UBF were accepted until , and are now being evaluated. The UBF is part of a suite of federal investments to improve high-speed Internet. The suite includes the Connect to Innovate program, which is expected to connect nearly 400,000 households by 2023, and the recently announced $2-billion broadband initiative from the Canada Infrastructure Bank. Associated links Backgrounder: Universal Broadband Fund and Telesat low Earth orbit satellite capacity agreement

Universal Broadband Fund

Connect to Innovate Program  Project status updates

Canada Infrastructure Bank announcement

High-Speed Access for All: Canada's Connectivity Strategy

Connectivity Strategy Tbaytel  Fibre expansion Stay connected Follow Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada on Twitter: @ISED_CA SOURCE Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

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[May 27, 2021] IRI Supports KISS Products in Capitalizing on Consumer Trends to Drive Industry-Leading Growth

IRI, a fast-growing, global leader in innovative solutions and services for consumer, retail and media companies, and KISS Products Inc., a leader in professional-quality beauty products, are continuing their long-standing partnership focused on adapting to and capitalizing on rapidly evolving consumer beauty trends using the IRI Market Advantage and IRI Consumer and Shopper Insights Advantage on the Unify (News - Alert)  visualization platform. The beauty industry experienced significant demand disruption as consumers shifted their behaviors in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. KISS, with its unwavering commitment to its cutting-edge innovation and strong retailer partnerships, leveraged the speed and nimbleness of Unify, as well as the active guidance of the IRI Mid-Market Growth team, to keep an eye on consumer trends and identify opportunities for innovation and growth. KISS's success led to its being named a 2020 CPG Growth Leader among small companies in IRI's and Boston Consulting Group's latest CPG industry study. This reflects the fifth time in six years that KISS has been recognized for its growth leadership in the sector. "The pandemic fundamentally changed consumers' approaches to beautification, and our partnership with IRI has been a significant contributor to our growth and success through this extremely dynamic period," commented Paul Yang, chief strategy officer, KISS Products Inc. "IRI's platform enables us to track our customers' preferences and purchase habits in real time, and with the added, hands-on support of IRI's advisory team, KISS turned a volatile period into a catalyst for continued, industry-leading growth. We look forward to continuing our successful partnership with IRI to help us better understand our consumers, execute effective strategies and make quicker and better decisions." "We were happy to play a role in helping KISS succeed during an unprecedented year," said Robert Porod, executive vice president of Mid-Market national for IRI. "Our Unify platform and industry-leading datasets, which are strengthened by our extensive partner ecosystem, help clients quickly identify and capitalize on emerging market trends, and meet the scalability needs of small and midsize companies. Our ability to couple technology with hands-on advisory from our team makes IRI a unique strategic partner to CPG companies looking to drive growth, regardless of size." Uify, IRI's visualization platform, improves ROI for CPG manufacturers and retailers of all sizes by providing speed to insights and integrating multiple, disparate data sources. It offers a single access point to all IRI Liquid Data solutions, including Market Advantage and Consumer and Shopper Insights Advantage, which aggregates and visualizes point-of-sale and consumer panel data to provide a holistic view of consumer trends and purchase behavior in real time.



To learn more about IRI's Mid-Market Growth Practice, please contact Robert Porod at Robert.Porod@iriworldwide.com. Helpful Links:

IRI and Boston Consulting Group Announce U.S. CPG Growth Leaders List IRI Finds Small, Extra-Small and Private Label CPG Manufacturers Gained Market Share in 2020 About KISS Products Inc. KISS is a global beauty leader providing innovative, salon-quality products to the DIY consumer. KISS is a market leader in both the fashion nail and false lash categories. The brand services consumers of all ages, races, ethnicities and skill levels with its affordable and accessible portfolio of products designed to inspire creativity, individuality and self-expression. KISS's wide range of products also includes color cosmetics, beauty tools and accessories, and hair color and care. For more information, visit www.KISSusa.com. About IRI IRI is a fast-growing, leading provider of big data, predictive analytics and forward-looking insights that help CPG, OTC health care organizations, retailers, and financial services and media companies grow their businesses. With the largest repository of purchase, media, social, causal and loyalty data, all integrated into an on-demand, cloud-based technology platform, IRI is empowering the personalization revolution, helping to guide its more than 5,000 clients around the world in their quests to remain relentlessly relevant, capture market share, connect with consumers, collaborate with key constituents and deliver market-leading growth. For more information, visit www.iriworldwide.com. About IRI's Mid-Market Growth Practice The Mid-Market Growth Practice of IRI provides high-tech and high-touch support for small to midsize manufacturers. Regardless of a company's size, IRI has a data solution that drives understanding and growth. Companies benefit from access to all the same tested and proven solutions offered to IRI global partners, enabling companies of all sizes to democratize data, streamline analytics and, ultimately, win in the marketplace. For more information on IRI's comprehensive portfolio of solutions specifically crafted for small and midsized brands, please contact Robert Porod at Robert.Porod@IRIworldwide.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005674/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Christmas Central Named a Top U.S. Online Retailer

CHEEKTOWAGA, N.Y., May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Christmas Central, a division of Gordon Companies, is honored to be named one of the top 1000 retailers in the U.S by Digital Commerce 360 (formerly Internet Retailer). The 2021 Top 1000 Database ranks North America's leading online retailers. Christmas Central has been named one of the top 50 specialty retailers, and the top 1000 ecommerce retailers in the U.S. In 2021, Christmas Central is ranked 659 out of the top 1000 online retailers and placed 49th in the primary merchandise category of Specialty. This is the third time Christmas Central has been named to this distinguished list of ecommerce businesses. It was also ranked in 2019 and 2016. "Despite the unprecedented challenges of 2020, Christmas Central continues to thrive," says Vice President Nathan Gordon. "We are looking forward to the year aead and sincerely thank our team and the customers who have shown us tremendous support."



Established in 2004, Christmas Central has been pleased to accept several prestigious awards. In addition to Digital Commerce 360's lists, Christmas Central has been named to Inc. 5000's list of online retailers five times. Christmas Central was also named to Newsweek's Best Online Shops in 2020, ranking in the Top 10 in the category of home decor and textile. The demand for home and outdoor decor has soared over the past few years, with customers preferring the convenience of online ordering. Christmas Central experienced 50% growth from 2019 to 2020, and expects to continue this trajectory through 2021.

About DIGITAL COMMERCE

The Digital Commerce 360 Top 1000 is a complete ranking of the leading 1,000 online retailers headquartered in North America. Collectively, North America's Top 1000 online retailers grew an astonishing 45.8% in a pandemic-ridden 2020 to cross $882 billion in online sales. Retail chains rose to the occasion after stores were shut down, growing ecommerce 62% last yearthe fastest of any merchant type. Part of the most comprehensive data we have compiled yet, our expert research team surveyed retailers, studied website traffic data and analyzed key trends to identify the significant ecommerce websites selling to North American consumers. Whether you are exploring companies in apparel, home goods, mass merchants or food and beverage, our Top 1000 Databases are designed to give you flexibility in both pricing and accessibility. Available in both database and report formats, the Top 1000 provides extensive customizable data including company profiles, executive contact information, and performance metrics. About Christmas Central

Christmas Central, a family-owned business, was established in 2004. A leading online U.S. retailer, Christmas Central offers one of the largest online selections of Christmas decorations, home decor, and outdoor living items. Christmas Central boasts over 250,000 unique SKUS and is a favorite among movie studios, national publications, interior designers, and customers decorating their personal homes for the holidays and every day. Christmas Central is a division of Gordon Companies, Inc. View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/christmas-central-named-a-top-us-online-retailer-301301063.html SOURCE Christmas Central

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 19:09:19|Editor: huaxia

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TEHRAN, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Thursday urged the Iranians to participate in the upcoming presidential election slated for June 18.

Khamenei said the elections belong to the people and asked them to go to the polls and vote for what is right, according to the leader's official website.

"Those who discourage people from attending the polls are not sympathetic to the people," Khamenei made the remarks in addressing Iranian lawmakers via video link.

He also backed up Iran's Constitutional Council, which supervises elections in the country, against recent criticism of its disqualification of some applicants, according to the state TV.

On Tuesday, the Interior Ministry announced the qualification of seven candidates out of 592 registered ones by the vetting body.

Ebrahim Raisi, as a principlist candidate and judiciary chief of the country, is widely seen as a notable qualified hopeful.

Among the disqualified candidates are incumbent reformist Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri and moderate former Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani.

The election campaign of the presidential candidates officially started from the date of announcing the names of qualified ones and will end 24 hours before the election day. Enditem
[May 27, 2021] OSE Immunotherapeutics and the FoRT Foundation Announce Initiation of a Phase 2 Clinical Trial Evaluating Tedopi in Combination with Opdivo (nivolumab) in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

This clinical trial will be sponsored and conducted by the Italian Oncology Foundation FoRT and supported by Bristol Myers Squibb and OSE Immunotherapeutics.

The study will explore the strategy of combining a PD-1 targeted checkpoint inhibitor with Tedopi as a second-line treatment in patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer after first-line chemo-immunotherapy. NANTES, France and ROME, May 27, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- OSE Immunotherapeutics (ISIN: FR0012127173; Mnemo: OSE) and the FoRT Foundation (Fondazione Ricerca Traslazionale) today announced that the Italian Medicines Agency (AIFA) and the Italian Ethics Committee approved the initiation of a new Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating Tedopi in combination with Opdivo or chemotherapy as second-line treatment in patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This three-arm Phase 2 study will evaluate neo-epitope-based vaccine Tedopi in combination with Bristol Myers Squibbs Opdivo (nivolumab), an immune checkpoint inhibitor, or Tedopi plus chemotherapy or chemotherapy alone as second-line treatment in HLA-A2 positive patients with metastatic NSCLC after first-line chemo-immunotherapy. The clinical trial will be sponsored by the Italian oncology Foundation FoRT. It will be supported by Bristol Myers Squibb, which will provide Opdivo, and by OSE Immunotherapeutics, which will provide Tedopi for the study as well as a partial financial support. Federico Cappuzzo, M.D., Ph.D., Director Medical Oncology at Cancer Institute Regina Elena, Roma, Italy, and Chief Investigator of the study, comments: Checkpoint inhibitors are now often used in first-line settings in combination with chemotherapy. For patients who have disease progression after checkpoint inhibitors, the standard second-line option remains chemotherapy. In particular for NSCLC patients with disease progression, we need additional second-line combinations of immuno-therapeutic agents to provide these patients with new options. The trial will evaluate a new treatment strategy with the combination of therapeutic vaccine Tedopi which, by activating T lymphocytes, might efficiently optimize a checkpoint inhibitor or chemotherapy treatment. Alexis Peyroles, Chief Executive Officer of OSE Immunotherapeutics, comments: We are very pleased to collaborate with Dr Federico Cappuzzo and FoRT to evaluate Tedopi in combination with Opdivo in second-line treatment of NSCLC patients after chemo-immunotherapy. This additional development program of Tedopi in NSCLC will expand the products clinical data in this indication for a patient population who needs innovative treatment options. Tedopi was evaluated as monotherapy post-checkpoint failure in NSCLC and already demonstrated positive results for the Step-1 of its Phase 3 Atalante trial, as presented at the 2020 ESMO congress*. * OSE Immunotherapeutics presented positive results of Step-1 of its Phase 3 Atalante 1 clinical trial, including a significant increase in overall survival in NSCLC patients after failure with checkpoint inhibitor (survival rate at 12 months in the patients treated with Tedopi versus standard of care). Today, OSE Immunotherapeutics intends to discuss with the regulatory health authorities, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency, to determine the best options to continue development of Tedopi and to maximize the data obtained in terms of risk / benefit ratio. ABOUT FoRT The Foundation for Translational Research (FoRT), founded by Dr. Federico Cappuzzo, is an Italian foundation developing and conducting clinical and translational research activities in the field of oncology. By promoting clinical and preclinical trials, FoRT aims at contributing to the development of innovative and personalized cancer treatments to improve the lives of patients. ABOUT BRISTOL MYERS SQUIBB Bristol Myers Squibb is a global biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases. For mor information about Bristol Myers Squibb, visit us at BMS.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.



ABOUT OSE Immunotherapeutics OSE Immunotherapeutics is an integrated biotechnology company focused on developing and partnering therapies to control the immune system for immuno-oncology and autoimmune diseases. The companys immunology research and development platform is focused on three areas: T-cell-based vaccination, Immuno-Oncology (focus on myeloid targets), Auto-immunity & Inflammation. Its balanced first-in-class clinical and preclinical portfolio has a diversified risk profile:

Vaccine platform Tedopi  (innovative combination of neoepitopes): the companys most advanced product; positive results for Step-1 of the Phase 3 trial (Atalante 1) in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer post checkpoint inhibitor failure.

In Phase 2 in pancreatic cancer (TEDOPaM, sponsor GERCOR)

In Phase 2 in ovary cancer (TEDOVA, sponsor ARCAGY-GINECO)

Due to the COVID-19 crisis, accrual of new patients in TEDOPaM should restart in 2021.

(innovative combination of neoepitopes): the companys most advanced product; positive results for Step-1 of the Phase 3 trial (Atalante 1) in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer post checkpoint inhibitor failure. In Phase 2 in pancreatic cancer (TEDOPaM, sponsor GERCOR) In Phase 2 in ovary cancer (TEDOVA, sponsor ARCAGY-GINECO) Due to the COVID-19 crisis, accrual of new patients in TEDOPaM should restart in 2021. CoVepiT: a prophylactic second-generation vaccine against COVID-19, developed using SARS-CoV-2 optimized epitopes against multi variants. Positive preclinical and human ex vivo results in August 2020. In clinical Phase 1.

Immuno-oncology platform BI 765063 (OSE-172, anti-SIRPa mAb on SIRPa/CD47 pathway): developed in partnership with Boehringer Ingelheim in advanced solid tumors; positive Phase 1 results in monotherapy and BI 765063 dose escalation study ongoing in combination with Ezabenlimab (PD-1 antagonist).

(OSE-172, anti-SIRPa mAb on SIRPa/CD47 pathway): developed in partnership with Boehringer Ingelheim in advanced solid tumors; positive Phase 1 results in monotherapy and BI 765063 dose escalation study ongoing in combination with Ezabenlimab (PD-1 antagonist). CLEC-1 (novel myeloid checkpoint target): identification of mAb antagonists of CLEC-1 blocking the Dont Eat Me signal that increase both tumor cell phagocytosis by macrophages and antigen capture by dendritic cells.

(novel myeloid checkpoint target): identification of mAb antagonists of CLEC-1 blocking the Dont Eat Me signal that increase both tumor cell phagocytosis by macrophages and antigen capture by dendritic cells. BiCKI: bispecific fusion protein platform built on the key backbone component anti-PD-1 (OSE-279) combined with new immunotherapy targets; 2nd generation of PD-(L)1 inhibitors to increase antitumor efficacity.

Auto-immunity and inflammation platform FR104 (anti-CD28 monoclonal antibody): Licensing partnership agreement with Veloxis in the organ transplantation market; ongoing Phase 1/2 in renal transplant (sponsored the Nantes University Hospital); Phase 2-ready asset in a niche indication in autoimmune diseases.

(anti-CD28 monoclonal antibody): Licensing partnership agreement with Veloxis in the organ transplantation market; ongoing Phase 1/2 in renal transplant (sponsored the Nantes University Hospital); Phase 2-ready asset in a niche indication in autoimmune diseases. OSE-127/S95011 (humanized monoclonal antibody targeting IL-7 receptor): developed in partnership with Servier; positive Phase 1 results; in Phase 2 in ulcerative colitis (OSE sponsor) and an independent Phase 2a planned in Sjogrens syndrome (Servier sponsor).

(humanized monoclonal antibody targeting IL-7 receptor): developed in partnership with Servier; positive Phase 1 results; in Phase 2 in ulcerative colitis (OSE sponsor) and an independent Phase 2a planned in Sjogrens syndrome (Servier sponsor). OSE-230 (ChemR23 agonist mAb): first-in-class therapeutic agent with the potential to resolve chronic inflammation by driving affected tissues to tissue integrity.

For more information:

Click and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn

https://twitter.com/OSEIMMUNO

https://www.linkedin.com/company/10929673 Contacts OSE Immunotherapeutics

Sylvie Detry

Sylvie.detry@ose-immuno.com

+33 153 198 757

U.S. Media: LifeSci Communications

Darren Opland, Ph.D.

darren@lifescicomms.com

+1 646 627 8387

French Media: FP2COM

Florence Portejoie

fportejoie@fp2com.fr

+33 607 768 283 U.S. and European Investors

Chris Maggos

chris@lifesciadvisors.com

+41 79 367 6254 Forward-looking statements

This press release contains express or implied information and statements that might be deemed forward-looking information and statements in respect of OSE Immunotherapeutics. They do not constitute historical facts. These information and statements include financial projections that are based upon certain assumptions and assessments made by OSE Immunotherapeutics management in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current economic and industry conditions, expected future developments and other factors they believe to be appropriate. These forward-looking statements include statements typically using conditional and containing verbs such as expect, anticipate, believe, target, plan, or estimate, their declensions and conjugations and words of similar import. Although the OSE Immunotherapeutics management believes that the forward-looking statements and information are reasonable, the OSE Immunotherapeutics shareholders and other investors are cautioned that the completion of such expectations is by nature subject to various risks, known or not, and uncertainties which are difficult to predict and generally beyond the control of OSE Immunotherapeutics. These risks could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed in or implied or projected by the forward-looking statements. These risks include those discussed or identified in the public filings made by OSE Immunotherapeutics with the AMF. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. This press release includes only summary information and should be read with the OSE Immunotherapeutics Universal Registration Document filed with the AMF on 15 April 2021, including the annual financial report for the fiscal year 2020, available on the OSE Immunotherapeutics website. Other than as required by applicable law, OSE Immunotherapeutics issues this press release at the date hereof and does not undertake any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking information or statements.



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[May 27, 2021] Intelligent Innovations Group awarded a spot on the Defense Intelligence Agency's SITE III contract

WASHINGTON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Intelligent Innovations Group (IIG), a joint venture created between Argus Secure Technology LLC and Aveshka, Inc., has won a position supporting the $12.6 billion Solutions for Information Technology Enterprise III (SITE III) Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract for the US Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). Intelligent Innovations Group supporting $12.6 billion DIA SITE III IDIQ contract delivering IT services. For this enterprise IT contract, IIG will deliver a wide range of IT services and capabilities to support intelligence needs for DIA and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) who also can award work under this contract. "Moernizing IT enterprise systems for the government is a major priority right now and we are thrilled to continue actively supporting DIA in their endeavors to streamline their IT approach," said Demetrios Bursenos, Argus Managing Partner. "We are also eager to expand our services to the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency as an IT solutions provider supporting the critical missions and projects that impact our warfighters and our country."



"We are excited to work with Argus through this joint venture as Intelligent Innovations Group," says Aveshka President and CEO, Girish Jindia. "Together, our expertise and capability offerings are a force multiplier that effectively spans over the broad range of IT work DIA requires. We both have had successful track records leading IT engagements and serving DIA and various entities within the government sector." As IIG, Argus and Aveshka have combined their core competencies all of which are sought under SITE III which includes but is not limited to: IT planning and project management, application development, cybersecurity, enterprise network defense, compliance, information assurance, enterprise computing, cloud computing and network services.

ABOUT ARGUS SECURE TECHNOLOGY LLC

Argus Secure Technology is an IT services provider specializing in Defensive Cyber Operations (DCO), Security Engineering and Information Assurance. Argus serves the Department of Defense (DoD), Intelligence Community (IC), Federal Government, and commercial clients employing proactive next generation (NextGen) cyber defense methodologies. Argus' innovative approach leverages threat intelligence driven operations, whereby incorporating Attack Sensing and Warning (AS&W) and Warning Intelligence (WI) throughout all aspects of the Protect, Detect, and Respond mission spaces. For more information, visit www.ArgusSecureTech.com. ABOUT AVESHKA, INC.

Aveshka is a thought leader that integrates strategy, technology and innovation to deliver cutting edge, breakthrough solutions that strengthen the nation against security threats. Aveshka accelerates the advantage for its customers' missions, rendering them protected today and prepared for a safer and smarter tomorrow. For more information, visit www.aveshka.com. View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/intelligent-innovations-group-awarded-a-spot-on-the-defense-intelligence-agencys-site-iii-contract-301301105.html SOURCE Aveshka, Inc.

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[May 27, 2021] project44 Acquires ClearMetal

Today project44 announced that it will acquire San Francisco-based ClearMetal, a market leader in international supply chain visibility and predictive analytics for enterprises. ClearMetal's patented artificial intelligence (AI) enables organizations to optimize their supply chains and provides customers with easy access to trusted, live information about their orders and shipments. project44's acquisition of ClearMetal is the latest growth milestone preceded by building on tremendous 135% YoY growth, crossing the $50M ARR mark, and being named a Leader in the latest Gartner Magic Quadrant. This acquisition places project44 on the cutting edge of logistics AI, enabling customers to improve agility, and resiliency across their global and multi-modal supply chains. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005408/en/ The addition of ClearMetal distinguishes project44 as the market leader in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and data science capabilities (Graphic: Business Wire) "Project44 has the broadest and deepest visibility network in the world, across all transportation modes," said?Jett?McCandless, Founder & CEO, project44.? "With the addition of ClearMetal's advanced AI technology and data science team, we're building on a strong foundation and extending capabilities to deliver more accurate, predictabe ETAs and visibility into customer orders and inventory in transit."



Over the past 18 months, global supply chains have seen unprecedented levels of disruption. These disruptions have created even more urgency for advanced technology to accurately analyze and track orders and shipments across all modes of transportation, in order to provide customers with the delivery experience they expect. Combined with project44's leading multi-modal, global network, ClearMetal provides customers with far more granular and deeper visibility earlier on in the lifecycle of an order to predict and act on supply chain disruptions, before they occur. This new functionality includes inventory visibility for shippers and direct integrations with freight forwarders and ocean carriers. As a result, customers can leverage the most accurate end-to-end ETA across all transportation modes, available uniquely from project44. The combined platform will deliver value to customers and supply chain partners by:

Deepening AI based business and market analytics capabilities that translate into intelligent cost savings in the form of reduced buffer stock (15% reduction) and inventory optimization (10-20% reduction)

Improving demand forecasting and distribution capabilities, providing order and inventory level visibility across shipments, resulting in expedited fee reductions (25-30%)

Expanding global upstream supplier visibility - particularly into Asia, where manufacturers and freight forwarders play a critical role in the global supply chain "Now, joined with project44, there's no question this is the industry's #1 platform and our combined team, capabilities, and execution deliver remarkable digital transformation for supply chains and the people who rely on them," said Adam Compain, Founder & CEO of ClearMetal. "ClearMetal's focus on global manufacturing companies with best-in-class supply chains such as Unilever, Georgia-Pacific, Lenzing and BAT has helped us crack the code on providing upstream international supplier visibility from APAC and LATAM to North America, which is particularly critical given today's issues with ocean freight. We're delighted to be part of the project44 team." ClearMetal recently partnered with Unilever to build and launch its Virtual Ocean Control Tower. Michelle Grose, Unilever's Head of Logistics and Fulfilment, said, "We're transforming our technology backbone to create a highly agile, responsive and end-to-end connected supply chain. This innovation is one piece of that puzzle. It (the control tower) gives us real-time visibility of each step in the process, so we can plan better and respond quicker and, importantly, predict and proactively deal with issues." Read the blog post here. "With our interaction with ClearMetal, we have tangible examples of where we actually applied and then deployed this technology to our customers. They have been extremely engaged and collaborative, wanting to understand what our customer's pain points were," said the VP of Supply Chain and Customer Experience at Georgia-Pacific. Watch the video here. Earlier in 2021, project44 was named a Gartner (News - Alert) Magic Quadrant Leader and ClearMetal was recognized by Gartner as one of the four vendors in the 2021 Gartner "International Visibility Business Process Context: 'Magic Quadrant for Real-Time Transportation Visibility Platforms'" report. For more information, visit https://get.project44.com/clearmetal/ About ClearMetal ClearMetal, Inc., based in San Francisco CA (News - Alert) (USA), is a leader in the Continuous Delivery Experience (CDX), enabling supply chain organizations to optimize logistics and provide their customers with easy access to trusted, live information about their shipments. The ClearMetal CDX Platform uses proprietary machine learning algorithms to break free from static-visibility paradigms and make sense of supply chain data. ClearMetal was founded by top software engineers, data scientists, and operations researchers from Stanford University, Google (News - Alert) , and Silicon Valley and is funded by Eclipse Ventures, Prelude Ventures, Innovation Endeavors, NEA, SAP.io, Prologis, PSA Unboxed, DCLI, Munich Re Ventures, BTomorrow Ventures, and the founders of GT Nexus, Navis, and Uber Freight. About project44 project44 solves some of the world's most critical logistics challenges by connecting, automating, collaborating and providing real-time visibility into global transportation processes. With project44's cloud-based platform, organizations can increase operational efficiencies, reduce costs, improve shipping performance, and deliver an exceptional, Amazon-like experience to their customers. project44 supports all transportation modes and shipping types, including air, parcel, final-mile, less-than-truckload, volume less-than-truckload, groupage, truckload, rail, intermodal, and ocean. To learn more, visit www.project44.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005408/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Making homes more energy efficient to reduce energy bills, create jobs, and cut pollution

OTTAWA, ON, May 27, 2021 /CNW/ - Climate action starts at home. By helping Canadians make their homes more energy efficient, the Government of Canada is making it easier for them to reduce their energy bills and making their lives more affordable. This will cut pollution, create jobs and growth, and build a cleaner future for all Canadians. The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today launched the new Canada Greener Homes Grant, which will help up to 700,000 Canadian homeowners across the country improve the energy efficiency of their homes and reduce their energy bills through an investment of $2.6 billion over seven years. Homeowners will be able to receive grants of up to $5,000 to make energy efficient retrofits to their primary residences, and up to $600 to help with the cost of home energy evaluations. Eligible home improvements and upgrades include replacing windows and doors, adding insulation, sealing air leaks, improving heating and cooling systems  such as with heat pumps  and purchasing renewable energy systems like solar panels. To support this new initiative, we announced last week our commitment to recruit and train up to 2,000 new energy advisors to help provide guidance, advice, and timely evaluations to Canadians from coast to coast to coast. This recruitment, with a focus on advancing diversity and inclusion, will create new jobs and economic growth that benefits everyone. Today's announcement is just one of the many steps the Government of Canada is taking to fight climate change, reduce pollution, and protect the environment. Through Canada's climate plan, we are making life more affordable for Canadians, creating good middle class jobs, and building a stronger and cleaner economy for everyone. Quotes "Whether replacing a drafty window, adding insulation, or making upgrades ahead of a tough Canadian winter, today's investment will help Canadians make their homes more comfortable and life more affordable. Improving the energy efficiency of our homes not only cuts down on pollution, it also creates new jobs, economic growth, and a cleaner future for everyone."

 The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada "Canadians are looking for ways to save money on their energy bills and do their part to fight climate change. We are driving economic activity and creating jobs by improving energy efficiency and helping Canadians lower their carbon footprint. The Canada Greener Homes Grant is good for your wallet, good for the economy, and good for the planet."

 The Hon. Seamus O'Regan, Minister of Natural Resources "The homes and buildings of Canadians account for almost 20 per cent of Canada's greenhouse gas emissions, so retrofitting our homes to make them more comfortable and efficient won't just save money, it's an important measure in the fight against climate change."

 The Hon. Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Environment and Climate Change "Tackling climate change, creating jobs and growth, and building a cleaner future for all Canadians are top priorities for the Government of Canada. The new Canada Greener Homes Grant willhelp make the lives of homeowners across the country more affordable by reducing their energy bills and making their homes more energy efficient. This initiative is an important part of our plan to build cleaner, more inclusive communities, tackle climate change, and drive to net-zero emissions by 2050."





Catherine McKenna , Minister of Infrastructure and Communities Quick Facts

The Canada Greener Homes Grant is retroactive to December 1, 2020 .

. Homeowners can go online to register, plan, and document their progress, which includes applying for their pre-retrofit EnerGuide evaluation, choosing from a list of eligible retrofits, scheduling a post-retrofit evaluation, and applying for reimbursement.

To participate in this new initiative, a homeowner's primary residence must be at least six months old, from the date of occupancy by the first homeowner, and eligible for an EnerGuide evaluation. Residences include single and semi-detached houses, row housing, townhomes, mobile homes on a permanent foundation, permanently moored floating homes, small multi-unit residential buildings (up to three storeys with a footprint of up to 600m 2 ), and mixed-use buildings (residential portion only).

), and mixed-use buildings (residential portion only). Retrofits that help protect homes from weather events  such as floods, wind damage, and power outages  are also eligible for the grant if they are done in combination with measures that improve energy efficiency.

Buildings, including homes, account for 13 per cent of Canada's greenhouse gas emissions. When taking into account space and water heating as well as electricity use for cooling, lighting, and appliances, this brings the total to 18 per cent. Retrofitting existing homes is an effective way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

greenhouse gas emissions. When taking into account space and water heating as well as electricity use for cooling, lighting, and appliances, this brings the total to 18 per cent. Retrofitting existing homes is an effective way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Home energy retrofits that reduce consumption of heating oil and natural gas will also reduce greenhouse gas emissions while saving money.

Today's investment was included in the Fall Economic Statement 2020, and approved on May 6, 2021 through the adoption of Bill C-14, An Act to implement certain provisions of the economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 30, 2020 and other measures .

through the adoption of Bill C-14, . Announced in December 2020 , Canada's strengthened climate plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy , includes $15 billion in investments to help achieve our economic and environmental goals.

, strengthened climate plan, , includes in investments to help achieve our economic and environmental goals. The plan includes measures to make it easier for Canadians to improve the energy efficiency of the places where they live and gather, including through investments in retrofits.

Budget 2021 provides $4.4 billion in interest-free loans of up to $40,000 to help up to 200,000 homeowners and landlords complete extensive home retrofits. More details will be available this summer.

Related Product Backgrounder: Government of Canada Invests in Energy Efficient Homes Associated Links Canada Greener Homes Grant

Canada Investing $10 million to Create Jobs for New Energy Advisors

to Create Jobs for New Energy Advisors Prime Minister announces Canada's strengthened climate plan to protect the environment, create jobs, and support communities

strengthened climate plan to protect the environment, create jobs, and support communities A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy

Fall Economic Statement 2020: Supporting Canadians and Fighting COVID-19 This document is also available at https://pm.gc.ca SOURCE Prime Minister's Office

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[May 27, 2021]

LUCY Security presents revolutionary Email Threat Screener and Arabic awareness content at GISEC in Dubai

Right in time for GISEC, LUCY presents a milestone in email thread analysis, the new Email Threat Screener. Furthermore, the range of Arabic training content has been expanded significantly: Close to 50 training and phishing simulation templates are now available in Arabic language and Look & Feel.

ZUG, Switzerland, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Swiss company LUCY Security, one of the largest providers of IT security awareness training with over 11,000 installations worldwide and over 23 million trained users, will be exhibiting at GISEC in Dubai, presenting its latest new features of the LUCY Cybersecurity Awareness Platform.

The LUCY Platform

LUCY allows organizations to measure and improve the security awareness of employees and test their IT defenses. Bild a human firewall with simulated attacks and LUCY's E-Learning platform with hundreds of preconfigured and customizable videos, training, and quizzes ready for usage.







The event

GISEC will provide an in-person meeting point for the cybersecurity ecosystem from 31st May-2nd June at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). LUCY is presenting the brand-new version of its award-winning cybersecurity awareness solution at stand number SS1-C10.

The new E-Mail Threat Screener

LUCY's new Email Threat Scanner drastically reduces the time to detect an ongoing attack and it decreases the false-positive rate of alerts resulting in a significant work decrease for your security analyst in the management and triage of reported incidents.

Arabic Language Content available

LUCY supports more than 30 languages including close to 50 templates and multiple videos in Arabic language.

Price and availability

The new version of LUCY Security Cybersecurity Awareness Platform is available via this download: https://lucysecurity.com/download/. All commercial editions of LUCY Security are listed in this price list.

For more information go to www.lucysecurity.com.

Contact:

Palo Stacho

palo@lucysecurity.com
[May 27, 2021] Learn4Life Asks: Why Are California Politicians Trying to Defund Nonclassroom-based Charter Schools?

California legislators are attempting to pass a bill (AB 1316) that would greatly limit nonclassroom-based (NCB) charter schools - yet it turns out that most politicians and parents don't understand the NCB model. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005875/en/ Learn4Life students study and complete assignments at one of its California learning centers. (Photo: Business Wire) What is a nonclassroom-based charter school? First, what it is not. Nonclassroom-based does not mean online only. In fact, only about one-third of nonclassroom-based charter schools are primarily or exclusively virtual. It does mean flexible scheduling where students attend their school site as often as they need. One nonclassroom-based charter school network, Learn4Life, has multiple learning centers throughout California where students meet with their teachers, complete work, take tests, attend labs, and receive tutoring and wraparound services. Students who attend NCB charter schools are primarily those who had formerly dropped out, are from low-income households and deal with multiple recurring obstacles that hinder their success in a traditional school such as parenting, needing to work, dealing with trauma, experiencing homelessness or being in foster care. Rather than large classes, Learn4Life creates classrooms of oe where the learning is personalized to the individual and delivered through one-on-one and small-group instruction, tailored to the student's learning style.



Click to Tweet: Should a student's graduation depend on how much time they sit in a classroom or on how much they learn? #StopAB1316 Did you know there are seven different learning styles?

Educators and psychologists agree that there are seven different learning styles: auditory/musical, visual/spatial, verbal, logical/mathematical, physical/kinesthetic, social/interpersonal and solitary/intrapersonal. Most public high school teachers are responsible for 25-30 students in each of five or six classes. How, then, can they possibly teach 150+ students every day while knowing each learning style and adjusting the methods to engage them? Why do NCBs work for our most vulnerable students? Flexibility: Teachers at Learn4Life have caseloads of 30-35 students and meet with them one-on-one to guide them on their assignments. Students can do their homework at school or home, and can join small-group classes, get extra tutoring or meet with a counselor for help with life challenges. "This flexibility is key for our students, most of whom have adult responsibilities like needing to work or taking care of their babies," said Lindsay Reese, area superintendent of Learn4Life's San Diego and Riverside regions. "We have more than 1,500 teen parents across our network of schools who would have likely dropped out if they didn't have a flexible option. We let them bring their babies to school and have separate quiet, child-friendly areas for our teen parents to watch their youngsters as they meet with teachers and do their homework." Accepting of aged-out students: Another benefit of NCB schools is that they can accept youth up to 22 years old once they have aged out of high school. Instead of dropping out and becoming a burden on the community, students can come back to school any day of the year and get the extra support they need to earn their diploma. "If we've learned anything about schooling the past year, it is that flexibility is important and we must do everything we can to keep kids engaged and learning," said Reese. "Schools should be made convenient for the students - not the staff." To learn more about California Assembly Bill 1316 and the benefits of nonclassroom-based charter schools, visit StopAB1316.com. About Learn4Life Learn4Life is a network of nonprofit public schools that provides students personalized learning, career training and life skills. Each school is locally controlled, tuition free and gives students the flexibility and one-on-one attention they need to succeed. Serving more than 47,000 students - including full-time and intersession students - we help them prepare for a future beyond high school. For more information, please visit www.learn4life.org. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005875/en/

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[May 27, 2021] Top Tech Events Join Forces to Promote European Start-ups and Innovation

LONDON, MUNICH, and PARIS, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Three of the world's premiere conferences focused on technology & entrepreneurship have announced agreements to work together to promote a Europe-wide network for startups, scaleups, investment and innovation globally. Munich-based DLD, UK-based Founders Forum & Paris-based Viva Technology will cooperate on content, promotion and marketing, while retaining the unique character and communities that have made all three among the most important such gatherings in the world. The partnership's formal launch will take place next month, when both Founders Forum and VivaTech hold their flagship annual events (16th - 17th June for FF and 16th - 19th June for VivaTech), among the first major in-person meetings since the start of the global pandemic. Steffi Czerny, Founder & Managing Director of DLD, declared: "We live in an age where collaboration is more important than competition  especially in an innovation hotbed like Europe. DLD has long promoted unique European innovation ecosystems which need more mutual connection and international awareness.

Joining forces with VivaTech and Founders Forum, two strong players with the same strategic outlook, for me, is a great step towards building new and stronger bridges across our continent." Brent Hoberman, Co-Founder & Executive Chairman of Founders Forum, declared: "We're always excited when Europe works together to drive our tech ecosystem's growth  we want to send a strong signal globally that this is the week for entrepreneurs to be in Europe, both this year and going forward." Maurice Levy Co-Founder of VivaTech declared: "VivaTech since its inception plays a role of catalyst on Tech and startups generating lot of initiatives in Europe. There is still so much to do to make Europe home of startups, scale-ups and innovation that partnering with DLD and Founders Forum is almost a must. Working with Steffi and Brent will be a signal that yes, we cooperate in Europe and will make it home for innovators, scale-ups and tech entrepreneurs. The combination will make Euope the place to be for speakers, investors, startups, exhibitors and visitors."



About Viva Technology - In only 4 years, VivaTech has become Europe's biggest startup and tech event and is recognized worldwide as a powerful catalyst for business transformation, startup growth and innovation for the common good. VivaTech brings together in Paris every year business leaders, startuppers, investors, researchers and thinkers from around the world for a unique experience combining inspiration, networking and innovation discovery. Starting 2021, VivaTech will be enriched with a digital platform that will bring together an even larger community of innovators. In 2019, VivaTech had already reached 231 million people worldwide, bringing together 124,000 visitors including more than 13,000 start-ups, 3,000 venture capital firms and 2,500 journalists from 124 countries. The 5th edition of VivaTech will be held on June 16-19, 2021.



For more information

https://vivatechnology.com/media/ and @VivaTech Media contacts

Romain Sulpice

rsulpice@vivatechnology.com

Lea Roos

vivatech@publicisconsultants.com About Founders Forum - Founders Forum is an event-powered, global community of founders, corporate and global leaders, rising star talent and senior investors, from across the technology landscape, where ideas are shared, supported and brought to life. Since 2005, Founders Forum have hosted their Flagship London Forum and invite-only Forums in cities across the world including, New York, Tel-Aviv, Singapore, Helsinki, Hong-Kong and Beijing. In 2021, the 15th Anniversary of Founders Forum London will be hosted June 16-17.

For more information

https://ff.co/ and @Founders_Forum Media contact

Ellie Cunningham

theteam@ff.co About DLD - DLD (Digital, Life, Design) is a conference platform for the multi-faceted and critical debate around the global opportunities and challenges of our technology-driven age. As an interdisciplinary, internationally connected community, DLD hosts conferences and events in destinations such as Munich, Tel Aviv, New York, Palo Alto Singapore, and Brussels which connect visionaries, business leaders, political decision-makers, opinion-formers, scientists and artists for crossover conversation and inspiration.

DLD was co-founded in 2005 by Steffi Czerny, Managing Director of DLD, and is part of German-based, internationally operating media and technology company Hubert Burda Media. DLD owes its international success and reputation in particular to its three chairmen, publisher Hubert Burda, high-tech investor Yossi Vardi and Hubert Burda Media CEO Paul-Bernhard Kallen.

For more information

www.dld.co Media contact

Heiko Schlott

heiko.schlott@dld-conference.com Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1520348/FF_logo_green_landscape_Logo.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1520347/dld_logo.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1520349/VivaTech_Logo.jpg

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[May 27, 2021] Climate Change Crisis Real Impact I Acquisition Corporation and EVgo Announce Filing of Definitive Proxy Statement and the June 29, 2021 Special Meeting to Approve Business Combination

Climate Change Crisis Real Impact I Acquisition Corporation (NYSE: CLII) ("CRIS"), a publicly-traded special purpose acquisition company, announced today that CRIS's definitive proxy statement ("Proxy Statement") relating to the previously announced business combination with EVgo HoldCo, LLC ("EVgo"), the nation's largest public fast charging network for electric vehicles (EVs) and first powered by 100% renewable electricity, has been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on May 27, 2021. CRIS has commenced mailing of the Proxy Statement which contains a notice and voting instruction form or a proxy card relating to the special meeting of the CRIS stockholders (the "Special Meeting") to CRIS stockholders of record as of the close of business on May 19, 2021. The Special Meeting to approve the pending business combination is scheduled to be held on June 29, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time. The Special Meeting will be conducted completely virtually, and can be accessed via live webcast at https://www.cstproxy.com/climatechangecrisisrealimpacti/2021. If the proposals at the Special Meeting are approved, the parties anticipate that the business combination will close shortly thereafter, subject to the satisfaction or waiver, as applicable, of all other closing conditions. Every stockholder's vote is important, regardless of the number of shares held. Accordingly, CRIS requests that each stockholder complete, sign, date and return a proxy card (online or by mail) as soon as possible and by no later than 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time on June 29, 2021, to ensure that the stockholder's shares will be represented at the Special Meeting. Stockholders which hold shares in "street name" (i.e. those stockholders whose shares are held of record by a broker, bank or other nominee) should contact their broker, bank or nominee to ensure that their shares are voted. If any individual CRIS stockholder has not received the Proxy Statement, such stockholder should (i) confirm his or her Proxy Statement's status with his or her broker or (ii) contact Morrow Sodali LLC, CRIS's proxy solicitor, for assistance via e-mail at CLII.info@investor.morrowsodali.com or toll-free call at (800) 662-5200. Banks and brokers can place a collect call to Morrow Sodali at (203) 658-9400. CRIS expects to provide stockholders with additional information on how stockholders may vote their shares held in "street name" on its website in the coming days, and CRIS expects to publish a subsequent press release once the website is live. Important Information and Where to Find It In connection with the proposed business combination between EVgo and CRIS and related transactions (the "Proposed Transactions"), CRIS has filed the Proxy Statement with the SEC (News - Alert) , which was distributed to holders of CRIS's common stock in connection with CRIS's solicitation of proxies for the vote by CRIS's stockholders with respect to the Proposed Transactions and other matters as described in the Proxy Statement. Investors and security holders and other interested parties are urged to read the Proxy Statement, and any amendments thereto and any other documents filed with the SEC carefully and in their entirety because they contain important information about CRIS, EVgo and the Proposed Transactions. Investors and security holders may obtain free copies of the Proxy Statement and other documents filed with the SEC by CRIS through the website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov, or by directing a request to: Climate Change Crisis Real Impact I Acquisition Corporation, 300 Carnegie Center, Suite 150, Princeton, New Jersey 08540. The information contained on, or that may be accessed through, the websites referenced in this press release is not incorporated by reference into, and is not a part of, this press release. Participants in the Solicitation CRIS and EVgo and their respective directors and certain of their respective executive officersand other members of management and employees may be considered participants in the solicitation of proxies with respect to the Proposed Transactions. Information about the directors and executive officers of CRIS and EVgo is set forth in the Proxy Statement. Stockholders, potential investors and other interested persons should read the Proxy Statement carefully before making any voting or investment decisions. These documents can be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above.



Forward Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release that are not historical facts may constitute forward-looking statements are forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions under the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as "believe," "may," "will," "estimate," "continue," "anticipate," "intend," "expect," "should," "would," "plan," "predict," "potential," "seem," "seek," "future," "outlook," and similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. All statements, other than statements of present or historical fact included in this press release, regarding CRIS's proposed business combination with EVgo, CRIS's ability to consummate the transaction, the benefits of the transaction and the combined company's future financial performance, as well as the combined company's strategy, future operations, estimated financial position, estimated revenues and losses, projected costs, prospects, plans and objectives of management are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on various assumptions, whether or not identified in this press release, and on the current expectations of the respective management of CRIS and EVgo and are not predictions of actual performance. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of CRIS or EVgo. Potential risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, changes in domestic and foreign business, market, financial, political and legal conditions; the inability of the parties to successfully or timely consummate the business combination, including the risk that any regulatory approvals are not obtained, are delayed or are subject to unanticipated conditions that could adversely affect the combined company or the expected benefits of the business combination or that the approval of the stockholders of CRIS or EVgo is not obtained; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of business combination; risk relating to the uncertainty of the projected financial information with respect to EVgo; the amount of redemption requests made by CRIS's stockholders; the overall level of consumer demand for EVgo's products; general economic conditions and other factors affecting consumer confidence, preferences, and behavior; disruption and volatility in the global currency, capital, and credit markets; the financial strength of EVgo's customers; EVgo's ability to implement its business strategy; changes in governmental regulation, EVgo's exposure to litigation claims and other loss contingencies; disruptions and other impacts to EVgo's business, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and government actions and restrictive measures implemented in response; stability of EVgo's suppliers, as well as consumer demand for its products, in light of disease epidemics and health-related concerns such as the COVID-19 pandemic; the impact that global climate change trends may have on EVgo and its suppliers and customers; EVgo's ability to protect patents, trademarks and other intellectual property rights; any breaches of, or interruptions in, CRIS's information systems; fluctuations in the price, availability and quality of electricity and other raw materials and contracted products as well as foreign currency fluctuations; changes in tax laws and liabilities, tariffs, legal, regulatory, political and economic risks. More information on potential factors that could affect CRIS's or EVgo's financial results is included from time to time in CRIS's public reports filed with the SEC, as well as the Proxy Statement that CRIS has filed with the SEC in connection with CRIS's solicitation of proxies for the meeting of stockholders to be held to approve, among other things, the proposed business combination. If any of these risks materialize or CRIS's or EVgo's assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that neither CRIS nor EVgo presently know, or that CRIS and EVgo currently believe are immaterial, that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements reflect CRIS's and EVgo's expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this press release. CRIS and EVgo anticipate that subsequent events and developments will cause their assessments to change. However, while CRIS and EVgo may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, CRIS and EVgo specifically disclaim any obligation to do so, except as required by law. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing CRIS's or EVgo's assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon the forward-looking statements.

No Offer or Solicitation This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities. About CRIS CRIS is a special-purpose acquisition company ("SPAC") formed to identify and acquire a scalable company making significant contributions to the fight against the climate crisis. CRIS is co-sponsored by private funds affiliated with Pacific Investment Management Company LLC ("PIMCO"), which has more than $640 billion in sustainability investments across its portfolios. CRIS is led by a seasoned operations and leadership team that has decades of experience at the intersection of climate change and capitalism, and includes veterans from NRG, Credit Suisse, General Electric and Green Mountain Power. For more information, please visit www.climaterealimpactsolutions.com/. About EVgo EVgo is the nation's largest public fast charging network for electric vehicles, and the first to be powered by 100% renewable energy. With more than 800 fast charging locations, EVgo's charging network serves over 65 metropolitan areas across 34 states, owns and operates the most public fast charging locations in the US. and serves more than 250,000 customers. Founded in 2010, EVgo leads the way on transportation electrification, partnering with automakers; fleet and rideshare operators; retail hosts such as hotels, shopping centers, gas stations and parking lot operators; and other stakeholders to deploy advanced charging technology to expand network availability and make it easier for drivers across the U.S. to enjoy the benefits of driving an EV. As a charging technology first mover, EVgo works closely with business and government leaders to accelerate the ubiquitous adoption of EVs by providing a reliable and convenient charging experience close to where drivers live, work and play, whether for a daily commute or a commercial fleet. EVgo's parent company is LS Power, a New York-headquartered development, investment and operating company focused on leading edge solutions for the North American power and energy infrastructure sector. On January 22, 2021, EVgo announced that it entered into a definitive business combination agreement with CRIS (NYSE: CLII). For more information visit evgo.com and lspower.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210527005879/en/

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[May 27, 2021] MDxHealth Announces Results of its Annual and Extraordinary General Shareholders' Meetings

NEWS RELEASE  REGULATED INFORMATION 27 May 2021, 23:00 p.m. CET IRVINE, CA, and HERSTAL, BELGIUM  27 May 2021  MDxHealth SA (Euronext Brussels: MDXH) (the "Company" or "MDxHealth") a commercial-stage innovative molecular diagnostics company, today held its annual general shareholders' meeting ("AGM") and an extraordinary general shareholders' meeting ("EGM") The items on the agenda of the AGM and EGM included the approval of a number of resolutions relating to the financial year ended on 31 December 2020, as well as the issuance of a new share option plan called the "2021 Share Option Plan" and the renewal of the authorisation to the board of directors to increase the share capital within the framework of the authorised capital. The proposed resolutions that were submitted to the meetings were all duly passed. The minutes of the AGM and EGM, and documents that were submitted to the meetings can be accessed via the Companys website. About MDxHealth MDxHealth is a commercial-stage, innovative healthcare company that provides actionable molecular diagnostic information to personalize the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The Companys tests are based on proprietary genetic, epigenetic (methylation) and other molecular technologies and assist physicians with the diagnosis of urologic cancers, prognosis of recurrence risk, and prediction of response to a specific therapy. The Companys European headquarters are in Herstal, Belgium, with laboratory operations in Nijmegen, The Netherlands, and US headquarters and laboratory operations based in Irvine, California. For more information, visit mdxhealth.com and follow us on social media at:



twitter.com/mdxhealth, facebook.com/mdxhealth and linkedin.com/company/mdxhealth. For more information: MDxHealth info@mdxhealth.com Important information

The MDxHealth logo, MDxHealth, ConfirmMDx and SelectMDx are trademarks or registered trademarks of MDxHealth SA (the "Company" or "MDxHealth"). All other trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners. This announcement contains forward-looking statements and estimates with respect to the anticipated future performance of MDxHealth and the market in which it operates. Such statements and estimates are based on assumptions and assessments of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which were deemed reasonable but may not prove to be correct. Actual events are difficult to predict, may depend upon factors that are beyond the Company's control, and may turn out to be materially different. MDxHealth expressly disclaims any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements in this release to reflect any change in its expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based unless required by law or regulation. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which reflect the opinions of MDxHealth only as of the date of this announcement. Attachment Results Press Release (EN)



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[May 27, 2021] Beacon Education Expands Partnership with the University of Otago

BEIJING, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Beacon Education, the world's largest provider of online degrees to China, is proud to announce the expansion of its partnership with the University of Otago with the innovative, interdisciplinary online Master of Business Data Science (MBusDataSc). The success of the innovative Otago Online MBA, designed for talented Chinese-speaking professionals and executives across China, had companies enthusiastically requesting a skills-based degree in data science with a focus on business, analytics, and practice. Graduates will acquire advanced knowledge in areas including data analysis application in business, ethical and privacy issues and mitigation approaches technologies for managing large data sets, and techniques for analyzing data. Robin Gauld, Dean of the Otago Business School notes, "Otago Business School is delighted to be a partner with Beacon in delivery of our world-leading online MBA designed, in this case, for Chinese business professionals. Through our partnership, we have been able to deliver our usual high-quality degree experience, while continuing to be a leader in online education. We are excited about the pending launch of our Masters in Business Data Science with Beacon, also delivered fully in Chinese. tago Business School and Beacon both value innovation and we look forward to further expanding our partnership in pursuit of world-class online education."



Beacon's CEO Michael Wang explains, "Otago understands Chinese working professional learners, their needs, and goals. This resonates in all aspects of the program design and we are proud to deliver and support the MBA and the incoming MBusDataSc program to talented cohorts around the country." ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO

Founded in 1869 with its main campus in Dunedin, The University of Otago is New Zealand's oldest university now with a presence in Christchurch, Wellington, and Auckland, and Wellington. Its 21,000 students, including 4,000 post grads, come from over 100 countries, all seeking an intensely focused, high quality, and personalized education that has been ranked five stars plus ranking by QS, placing it in the top 1% of universities around the world. https://www.otago.ac.nz/ ABOUT BEACON EDUCATION Beacon is China's largest provider of online degrees, partnering with the world's leading universities to deliver a broad range of programs and resources. With 35+ programs across 17+ university partners, Beacon is transforming digital, degree-based education in China. https://www.beaconedu.com/ CONTACT:

Charles Iannuzzi

charles.iannuzzi@beaconedu.com

(GS) View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/beacon-education-expands-partnership-with-the-university-of-otago-301301339.html SOURCE Beacon Education

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 19:10:21|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

SHENZHEN, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese tech giant Tencent confirmed Thursday that it has completed an investment of 15 million euros (18.3 million U.S. dollars) in Italian fintech startup Satispay in efforts to tap into Europe's growing mobile payment market.

The investment was finalized after the Italian government gave the official go-ahead in February, the Shenzhen-headquartered company told Xinhua.

Tencent said it has invested in Satispay on account of the latter's rapidly growing business and the bullish long-term prospect of mobile payment in Europe.

Tencent will support Satispay's move to expand businesses in Italy, Luxembourg and Germany, the company said. Enditem
[May 27, 2021] BlueRush Announces Partnership with Leading Customer Communications Management Provider FCI

TORONTO, May 27, 2021 /CNW/ - BlueRush Inc. ("BlueRush" or the "Company") (TSXV: BTV), an emerging personalized video Software as a Service (SaaS) company, proudly announces their partnership with leading Indian software firm, FCI Pvt. Ltd ("FCI"). The strategic partnership provides FCI with a BlueRush reseller agreement, enabling FCI, a customer communications management organization, to resell BlueRush's IndiVideo solution. The partnership also provides FCI with a creative licensing agreement, enabling FCI to create and manage IndiVideo solutions within the local market. "We are thrilled to partner with FCI, an organization that is a proven innovator in the customer communications management space. Their impressive roster of clients, including ICICI and TATA, provide BlueRush with access to India's most highly regarded corporations," states Steve Taylor, CEO of BlueRush. "India represents a strategic market for BlueRush, given the region's rapid adoption of marketing technology and a market that is focused on optimizing customer experiences in every industry." "We are pleased to announce our partnership with BlueRush, a leading provider of interactive personalized video platform. It is going to be exciting to work towards a similar mission of taking companies closer to their customers with the help of our solutions. BlueRush's cutting edge video personalization technology will help us further strengthen our offering and ROI to our customers," said Amit Sawhney, CEO of FCI. The partnership signifies a key milestone for BlueRush as it continues its global expansion. During 2021, BlueRush has signed partnership agreements with vendors located in Indonesia, India, Japan, the United Arab Emirates and the United States. "The personalized video market is seeing ongoing growth, as organizations are making significant investments in their digital acceleration strategies," continues Taylor. "Personalized video is helping organizations achieve these objectives by providing automated yet high touch experiences for clients at scale." About BlueRush BlueRush develops and markets IndiVideo, a disruptive, award-winning interactive personalized vdeo platform that drives return on investment throughout the customer lifecycle, from increased conversions to more engaging statements and customer care. IndiVideo enables BlueRush clients to capture knowledge and data from their customers' video interaction, creating new and compelling data driven customer insights.



Interactive Personalized Video positions BlueRush very well to continue supporting our customers during the COVID crisis and beyond. For more information visit:?http://www.bluerush.com

About FCI FCI is a leading customer communications management company that helps consumer facing businesses create meaningful conversations with their customers at every touchpoint across their preferred channels. FCI works with companies of all sizes in the banking, financial services, insurance, utility, telecom and healthcare industries. Having a global delivery centre with 200+ customers and 96%+ customer satisfaction rate FCI helps companies revamp their customer-facing communications with real-time engagement, automation, digital self-service, and future readiness for delivering superior customer experience. For more information, visit: https://fci-ccm.com/ 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. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this press release may constitute "forward-looking information" as ??such term is defined in applicable Canadian securities legislation. The words "may", "would", "could", ???"should", "potential", "will", "seek", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect" and ??similar expressions as they relate to the Company, are intended to identify forward-looking ??information. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking ??information. Such statements reflect the Company's current views and intentions with respect to ??future events, and current information available to the Company, and are subject to certain risks, ??uncertainties and assumptions. Material factors or assumptions were applied in providing forward-??looking information. Many factors could ?cause the actual results, performance or achievements that ??may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking ?information to vary from those described herein ??should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize. ?These factors include, without ?limitation: ?changes in law; the ability to implement business strategies and pursue ?business ?opportunities; state ?of the capital markets; the availability of funds and resources to pursue ?operations; ?a novel business ?model; dependence on key suppliers and local partners; competition; the ?outcome and cost of ?any ?litigation; the general impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; as well as general ?economic, market and ?business ?conditions, as well as those risk factors discussed or referred to in ?disclosure documents filed ?by the Company ?with the securities regulatory authorities in certain ?provinces of Canada and available ?at www.sedar.com. Should ?any factor affect the Company in an ?unexpected manner, or should ?assumptions underlying the forward-looking ?information prove ?incorrect, the actual results or events ?may differ materially from the results or events ?predicted. Any ?such forward-looking information is ?expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary ?statement. ?Moreover, the Company does not ?assume responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such ??forward-looking information. The ?forward-looking information included in this press release is made as ?of the ?date of this press release ?and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or ?revise any forward-?looking ?information, other than as required by applicable law.? SOURCE BlueRush Inc.

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[May 27, 2021] Media Invited to Administrator's State of NASA Remarks on Climate, Artemis

WASHINGTON, May 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In his first address to the workforce, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson will discuss the agency's plans for future climate science missions, the agency's plans for a robotic and human return to the Moon through the Artemis program, and more during a State of NASA event at 3 p.m. EDT Wednesday, June 2. The event will air live on NASA Television, the NASA app, and the agency's website.



Nelson will address the agency's workforce from the James Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Following his remarks, Nelson will speak to members of the media, with the following senior NASA leaders present:

Bob Gibbs , associate administrator for mission support

, associate administrator for mission support Kathy Lueders , associate administrator for human exploration and operations

, associate administrator for human exploration and operations Bob Pearce , associate administrator for aeronautics research

, associate administrator for aeronautics research Jim Reuter , associate administrator for space technology

, associate administrator for space technology Dr. Thomas Zurbuchen , associate administrator for science U.S. media are invited to attend a viewing of the State of NASA event from the Glennan Conference Center at NASA Headquarters before moving to the auditorium for the discussion with Nelson and senior agency leaders. Media interested in attending must contact Cheryl Warner at: cheryl.m.warner@nasa.gov no later than 9 a.m. Tuesday, June 1. Due to ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions and space limitations, NASA will be unable to accommodate all requests for attendance. For more information on NASA and agency activities, visit: https://www.nasa.gov View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/media-invited-to-administrators-state-of-nasa-remarks-on-climate-artemis-301301350.html SOURCE NASA

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[May 27, 2021] AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Blue Whale Re Ltd.

AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of "a+" (Excellent) of Blue Whale Re Ltd. (Blue Whale) (Burlington, VT). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable. The ratings reflect Blue Whale's balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its strong operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM). The ratings also reflect Blue Whale's strategic position as the captive insurer for Pfizer Inc. (Pfizer) [NYSE: PFE], a leading global pharmaceutical company. As Blue Whale insures or reinsures Pfizer's global property exposures, it plays an important role in Pfizer's overall ERM and assumes a critical role in protecting the Pfizer enterprise's assets. The stable outlooks reflect AM Best's view that the company's operations will continue to generate operating results that engender supportive capitalization for the ratings. Blue Whale's capitalization is very strong, albeit reliant on its parent. It operates at conservative underwriting leverage levels; however, it provides coverages with extremely large limits, and its gross exposures per loss occurrence are elevated. Although Blue Whale benefits from reinsurance protection, it is heavily dependent on reinsurance, with very substantial net retentions. Its reinsurance is provided by a large panel of reinsurers that provide significant capacity. AM Best takes into consideration the quality of the reinsurers, and the substantial financial resources and support available to the captive as part of the Pfizer group. Due to the nature of the relationship between Blue Whale and Pfizer, changes in Pfizer's credit profile can impact Blue Whale's ratings. Pfizer's market-based credit risk measures indicate general strength and take into account the company's strategic shift toward newer pharmaceuticals, with Pfizer having completed divestiture of its over-the-counter pharmaceutical business and contribution of its mature pharmaceutical going off patent to a joint venture. Based on the parent's refocused corporate strategy, as well as Blue Whale's current reinsurance program, Blue Whale appears well-positioned to continue to address Pfizer's insurance needs.



Blue Whale's operating results and reserve levels reverted to historical levels in 2019, following the final resolution of Hurricane Maria-related claims. The company's property insurance requirements are decreasing following Pfizer's divestiture of Upjohn, including the Caribbean production and warehouse facilities. AM Best remains the leading rating agency of alternative risk transfer entities, with more than 200 such vehicles rated in the United States and throughout the world. For current Best's Credit Ratings and independent data on the captive and alternative risk transfer insurance market, please visit www.ambest.com/captive.

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best's website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best's Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best's Credit Ratings. For information on the proper media use of Best's Credit Ratings and AM Best press releases, please view Guide for Media - Proper Use of Best's Credit Ratings and AM Best Rating Action Press Releases. AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in 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/20210527005930/en/

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CoreDial (News - Alert) has historically understood the pressures on resellers better than many communications vendors. It should, because following a channel-only model, its focus is squarely on the success of its partners. It has built an efficient onboarding system and channel program that has earned the loyalty of partners who consistently say they enjoy higher margins than with many competitors. As a result, it has grown its channel program to more than 850 partners.

Its latest platform release, CoreNexa 7.0, extends CoreDials value proposition by giving the channel CoreDials entire range of communications and collaboration services in a single platform to satisfy the requirements of nearly any customer, with the power to generate revenue across a variety of deployment scenarios and markets.

Our vision has always been to enable our channel partners to deliver seats to customers that include all the rich capabilities businesses need, with almost zero configuration, said CoreDial CEO Alan Rihm. With CoreNexa 7.0, we have put it all together in a desktop application, along with browser and mobile companions.

Billed as a collaboration-first solution, CoreNexa 7.0 integrates the companys proven UC and telephony features with enterprise-quality video  thanks to its recent acquisition of eZuce  along with chat, collaboration and productivity tools that are well suited for modern business needs. The result is a solution that can address traditional office environments, work-from-home staff, mobile workers, and any combination of the tree, to support the realities of todays workforces.

According to Rihm, the decision to build CoreNexa 7.0 was fueled by several factors. The deal to acquire eZuce was one, because it gave CoreDial a very solid solution for satisfying the skyrocketing demand for video meetings. Another was the growth of remote work environments, which CoreDial has been able to support seamlessly via its cloud architecture. The third was the market itself. With a new generation of competitors emerging, including video collaboration vendors, CoreDial wanted to be able to provide its partners with a complete communications and collaboration solution  including contact center  to protect their customer bases.

CoreNexa 7.0 is a game changer for us, explained Rihm. It opens the door for partners, who now have the chance to sell high margin services, like video and other sophisticated collaboration capabilities. They can sell these services into existing accounts, or new environments using video as either a standalone service or bundled with UC, contact center, and our other solutions. Most importantly, CoreNexa 7.0 allows our partners to compete with anyone, anywhere because they now have a truly comprehensive portfolio that is aligned with market requirements. It really opens up the playing field.

From a capability perspective, CoreDial believes CoreNexa 7.0 can match or even outperform other cloud communications platforms. Along with CoreDials proven UC features, CoreNexa 7.0 provides a number of interesting innovations that will appeal to a sophisticated customer base.

One example is its always on virtual room. Its an online meeting space that can be assigned to an individual, workgroup or even an entire department. The room is comparable to a physical office that creates a centralized space where team members can come and go to collaborate and interact. A room can also be locked for private meetings, or if individuals need someone alone time to get work done.

The Rooms feature is among the most interesting capabilities available in CoreNexa 7.0, shared Rihm. Once people become accustomed to it, theyll wonder how theyve ever done without it. Its a truly transformative tool that allows people to work from anywhere and be as productive as if they were all in the same office.

Think of Rooms as a virtual representation of the physical office, where people can leave their doors open for colleagues to come in to talk and collaborate, or they can be closed for private meetings or simply to provide a quiet workspace. Its a unique way to bridge the physical and virtual work environments  something that is missing in most

Along with Rooms, CoreNexa 7.0 offers a plethora of collaboration services that can be used by businesses in all environments. The solution combines HD video, messaging with chat and SMS, contact and calendar integration with Microsoft 365 and Google (News - Alert) Workspace, single sign-on, and other capabilities. CoreNexa 7.0 is really designed to fit any workforce models by replacing, supplementing, or enhancing any office environment.

As with all CoreDial solutions, CoreNexa 7.0 will be offered exclusively through the channel, giving partners a private-label or co-branded solution that allows partners to address customers constantly evolving needs. In addition, the solution enables partners to provision all features and services from a single portal, simplifying onboarding, and giving partners the tools to channel to sell, deliver, manage, and invoice all communications services from an intuitive web interface. It also positions partners well to compete aggressively in a competitive environment that now includes a number of newer OTT players.

As Rihm noted, CoreDialss partners have a much harder time succeeding when those OTT providers can sell services to their customers, noting its like letting the fox into the henhouse. With CoreNexa 7.0, CoreDial strengthens its partners position in the market by delivering a complete cloud-based business solution.

NexLine Communications, an MSP in Kingston, Pennsylvania, is an early adopter of CoreNexa 7.0. According to Chris Casale, partner at NexLine, CoreNexa 7.0 lets us go to clients with not just a UC solution, but a more comprehensive platform that includes rich video. Were calling the new features Zoom meets Slack. Its a true UCaaS offering, including voice as a service, that can help us scale with our end customers and expand into larger markets.

Theres also the post-pandemic effect. When businesses were forced to instantly switch to remote work models in March 2020, many tried to do it with their existing technology (including just using call forwarding to mobile phones) or with whatever point solutions they could adopt at the moment. For many, it was really just about taking the first solutions they could find. Now, 15 months later, they realize they have an opportunity to do things better and are taking the time to seek out complete solutions that will enable them to succeed with todays new workplace realities, which include remote work, mobility, video, collaboration, messaging  everything weve become accustomed to in the past year, while adding back the physical workplace.

Now that the workforce has learned to adapt and be agile, businesses are looking for a better solution to help them achieve seamless communications, collaboration, and employee engagement, added Rihm. CoreNexa 7.0 is not only optimized to address the challenges of today's modern workforce, but to provide a highly scalable and exciting path for long-term success with video and collaboration.

For MSPs, its a compelling value proposition as they seek to increase their value to clients. The ability to deliver a full communications suite that includes unified communications and collaboration as well as an integrated contact center solution, all delivered through the cloud and managed by the partners, builds a strong case.

Instead of trying to sell siloed, single-purpose technology like so many of their competitors, our partners can now deliver a wide range of high-quality, margin-rich services from a unified interface, Rihm said. The solution delivers tightly integrated communications and collaboration technology, which translates to superior employee engagement, customer experiences, and productivity across an entire end-user organization. We expect CoreNexa 7.0 to be quickly embraced by partners looking to differentiate their offering in this fast-moving marketplace.

Edited by Erik Linask
National Awards Recognize Top STEM Educators Across Nation

Nashville, TNToday, the Tennessee Department of Education announced that six Tennessee teachers have been named state finalists for the prestigious Presidential Awards in Math and Science Teaching (PAEMST), the highest honor for U.S. K-12 science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or computer science teachers.

Administered by the National Science Foundation (NSF) on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, the PAEMST program recognizes awardees for their contributions to teaching and learning, along with their ability to help students make progress in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or computer science. In addition to honoring individual achievement, the goal of the awards program is to showcase the highest standards of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) teaching.

These finalists represent the most outstanding STEM teachers Tennessee has to offer and this recognition of their work and passion is a true inspiration to students and fellow teachers, said Commissioner Penny Schwinn. We applaud and celebrate their hard work, their many sacrifices on behalf of their students and their commitment to STEM education.

The 2021 Tennessee state finalists are:

Natalie Boyd, Math, Hume-Fogg Academic Magnet, Metro Nashville Public Schools

Phillip Cutshaw, Math, South Greene High School, Greene County Schools

Monica White, Math, Holloway High School, Rutherford County Schools

Jesse Hillis, Science, Signal Mountain Middle High School, Hamilton County Schools

Chikezie Madu, Science, White Station High School, Shelby County Schools

Bethany Saunders, Science, Hardin Valley Middle School, Knox County Schools

Each of the state finalists will now move on to the national selection committee, who will identify up to two teachersone in mathematics and one in sciencefrom each state.

Teachers who are selected as PAEMST awardees receive a trip to Washington, D.C., where they attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities. They also receive a $10,000 award from NSF, a Presidential certificate, and join an elite cohort of award-winning teachers who can influence state and national STEM teaching.

Former award recipients and state scoring committee members, along with elected officials, commented on this prestigious achievement for these educators, saying:

I would like to congratulate Hardin Valley Middle Schools Bethany Saunders for this achievement for Knox County Schools, said Lt. Gov. Randy McNally. Our schools are increasingly some of the best in the nation and I am grateful we are recognizing those teachers who are inspiring our children to achieve  especially in the areas of math and science.

As any true teacher at heart, sharing our passion for learning as a way of life is our mission, said Huguette Williams, Math Teacher at Sevier County Schools, 2019 National Awardee in Math, Member of the 2021 PAEMST Scoring Committee. Being a recipient of the Presidential Award is the recognition of the value of my work and an encouragement to continue to grow but also inspire others. It is an award I owe to every student whose needs or curiosity challenge me to better myself, and to the excellent educators around me who inspire me. Receiving the award gave me the confidence I needed to step into a leadership position and opened the door to new opportunities. These finalists are the teachers every parent would want for their children.

These innovative Tennessee educators have demonstrated excellence in creating new opportunities for children to engage in STEM education and computer science, said State Sen. Education Committee Chairman Brian Kelsey. They are incredibly deserving of this recognition and represent the exceptional talent we have in our teachers in Tennessee. A special word of congratulations to Chikezie Madu in my senatorial district at White Station High School who received the award.

Congratulations to all of these teachers for being recognized on the national stage as one of the very best educators in America, said State Sen. Steve Southerland. A special congratulations to Phillip Cutshaw from South Greene High School in my senatorial district. It is an honor to recognize his accomplishments in educational excellence for Greene County students.

As an educator for over 30 years, an advocate for STEM education, and a former PAEMST finalist, participating in the PAEMST program has been an inspiring and rewarding experience, said Dr. Marcia Millet, Head of the Department of Teaching & Learning at Tennessee State University, Member of the 2021 PAEMST Scoring Committee. This years nominees were exceptional which made reviewing their applications both exhilarating yet challenging. Their ability to teach effectively during a pandemic shows that the future of teaching is extremely bright.

Rutherford County is blessed with excellent schools and committed educators, said State Sen. Dawn White. Mrs. Whites selection as a state finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching highlights the tremendous work happening in our schools. Congratulations to Monica on this recognition. It is certainly well deserved!

Jesse Hillis continues a tradition of academic and instructional excellence that is the standard at Signal Mountain Middle High School, said State Sen. Bo Watson. This is a well-deserved recognition.

I am tremendously proud of the hard work taking place at Signal Mountain Middle School, said State Rep. Patsy Hazlewood. Effective teachers like Jesse Hillis exemplify what it means to go above and beyond for their students. I congratulate everyone for their commitment to academic excellence.

Phillip Cutshaw is without a doubt the best of the best, said State Rep. Jeremy Faison. This is an incredible honor for an educator to receive, and we are proud that one of our own has been recognized for their contributions to our children and our community. I congratulate all the recipients on their outstanding achievements and thank Mr. Cutshaw for his continued commitment to shaping the next generation of Tennesseans.

Dr. Chikezie Madu is one of Shelby Countys finest educators, said State Rep. John Gillespie. His talents and dedication to engaging and educating our students have not gone unnoticed. I congratulate Dr. Madu for being selected to receive this outstanding award and thank all of the recipients for making a difference in the lives of so many young Tennesseans.

I congratulate Monica White for receiving such a prestigious award as being named a state finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching, said State Rep. Tim Rudd. It also says a lot about Rutherford County Schools and Holloway High for having one of the Nations best teachers on staff.

Established by Congress in 1983, the PAEMST program authorizes the President of the United States to bestow up to 108 awards each year. Awardees serve as models for their colleagues, inspiration to their communities, and leaders in the improvement of mathematics and science education.

Principals, teachers, parents, students, or members of the general public may nominate exceptional mathematics and science (including computer science) teachers at www.paemst.org. Awards alternate each year between elementary and secondary teachers. In the 2021 award cycle, nominees are science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or computer science teachers working in grades 7-12.

Learn more about the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching (PAEMST), including eligibility requirements and how to nominate a teacher, here.

For Tennessee Department of Education media inquiries, contact Edu.MediaInquiries@tn.gov.

###
NASHVILLE  Seven of Tennessees most promising high school students are included in the National Cyber Scholarship Foundation cyber security competition finalists. Theyre among 600 selected as National Cyber Scholars among 30,000 students from across the nation who sought to qualify for the competition. Strategic Technology Solutions, the states central information technology division within the Department of Finance and Administration, partnered with the foundation to promote the competition.

Tennessee is proud to have seven outstanding students who are among the best in the nation and their ambition and enthusiasm for this field will no doubt continue to put them at the head of any class, Finance and Administration Commissioner Butch Eley said. Cyber security jobs are in high demand and the need for more security professionals will only grow in the foreseeable future as we continue to rely on internet-based digital services, commerce and communication.

The seven Tennessee National Cyber Scholars are:

Landon Byrge, Cookeville High School, Cookeville

Gwendolyn Vongkasemsiri, home schooled

Andrew Allen, John Overton high school, Nashville

Alexus Cox, William Blount High School, Maryville

Addison Goforth, William Blount High School, Maryville

Molly Marantos, William Blount High School, Maryville

James Medders , William Blount High School, Maryville

The students each win a $2,500 scholarship and an opportunity to participate in the Cyber Foundations Academy, a multi-week training and certification course.

According to recent studies, in order to properly defend our infrastructure from attack, we need to train more than 3 million cybersecurity professionals. This scholarship and competition are designed to attract and incentivize more students to enter the field.

This scholarship recognizes high school students who have demonstrated exceptional cybersecurity talent, National Cyber Scholarship Foundation Executive Director David Brown said. The NCSF mission is to help close the critical cybersecurity skills gap by identifying and developing the next generation of cyber professionals. Each and every student who participated in this competition has the potential to develop their skills and build a successful career in cybersecurity.



There are several qualification pathways for the National Cyber Scholarship Competition including CyberStart America, a free online program that helps students discover their interest in cybersecurity and develop their talent and skills.
For late night denizens of the discourse, we share another quick collection of community news, pop culture and top headlines.



Check-it . . .

Shooting Doesn't Stop Tonight

Kansas City police investigate shooting on Eastern Avenue SOURCE: KMBC Kansas City police are investigating a shooting in the 9200 block of Eastern Avenue.The shooting was reported about 9:30 p.m. Wednesday.Police have not released any other details. Refresh this page for updates. Kansas City police are investigating a shooting in the 9200 block of Eastern Avenue.

Have You Seen This Family?!?

Clay County investigators still looking for mother, 2 children not seen since May 9 CLAY COUNTY, MO (KCTV) -- Investigators are still trying to locate a woman and her two children who have not been seen since May 9. According to the Clay County Sheriff's Office, Amanda J. Montgomery is 30 years old. Her children are 3-week-old Daisy Montgomery and 4-year-old Jacob D. Montgomery.

Read The Crowd!!!

Community rallies behind Kansas City's only Black-owned bookstore KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The community is rallying behind the only brick and mortar Black-owned bookstore in Kansas City. Willa's Books and Vinyl has been a staple in Kansas City for 14 years and a hub for a collection of Black authors, history, culture and vintage vinyl records.

Police Hope To Help This Man

Police searching for KCMO man who needs mental health help KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Police are asking for the public's help to find a missing Kansas City, Missouri, man who they say may be considering suicide. Brent Irwin, 43, was last seen at 7:05 p.m. Wednesday in the area of Northwest Vivion Road and North Mulberry Drive, police said.

JoCo Suffers Sewer Drama

Tenants dealing with reoccurring sewage problems at Overland Park apartment complex OVERLAND PARK, KS (KCTV) -- Several tenants at 79 Metcalf Apartment Homes have been dealing with unlivable conditions for days. One couple shared images of their unit from over the weekend, showing feces in their utility closet and sewage water in their unit.

Kansas City Chop Shop Chatter



At A Kansas City Barbershop, Six Black Men Share How They Processed George Floyd's Death May 25, 2020. When first hearing that date, people might not think much about it. But many around the world will never forget the name George Floyd. That was the day he was killed, sparking protests, immense grief, anger and calls for change. But some saw more than Floyd - some saw themselves.

LOCK DOWN FOREVER!!!

Victoria poised to announce lockdown as COVID case numbers climb overnight The Victorian government is poised to announce a lockdown as COVID-19 case numbers in the state continue to climb. Further meetings are due to be held this morning to thrash out final details, including how long the lockdown will last. Meetings of health officials and senior ministers were held late into last night.

IT'S A SCORCHER OUT THERE!!!



Earth Is Barreling Toward 1.5 Degrees Celsius Of Warming, Scientists Warn The average temperature on Earth is now consistently 1 degree Celsius hotter than it was in the late 1800s, and that temperature will keep rising toward the critical 1.5-degree Celsius benchmark over the next five years, according to a new report from the World Meteorological Organization.

Vaxx Pays Off

Ohio announces first $1M Vax-a-Million lottery winner "We're excited that this has inspired so many Ohioans to get vaccinated, and we're thrilled to announce the winners of the first round of drawings," said Gov. Mike DeWine. More than 2.7 million adults signed up for the $1 million prize and more than 104,000 children ages 12 to 17 entered the drawing for the college scholarship.

Former Prez Trump Stays Winning

Trump's one-night NYC visit for UFC fight cost taxpayers more than $250K: records Donald Trump's spur-of-the-moment decision to travel to New York for a mixed martial arts fight in 2019 cost taxpayers more than $250,000, as the Secret Service had to scramble to provide security for the president on a particularly busy weekend in the city, according to federal records.

Losing Streak Cont'd

Rays beat Royals in extras 2-1 After winning a pitchers duel in Game 1 versus the Tampa Bay Rays, the Royals couldn't get much going against right-hander Tyler Glasnow and fell 2-1 in extra innings on Wednesday night. Looking to piggyback off an excellent start from Brad Keller, Kansas City handed the ball to 33-year-old Mike Minor to keep the trend going.

Stormy Weather Persists

Rounds of storms expected for your Thursday Hide Transcript Show Transcript INTENSITY, WHICH IS WHY WE THINK IT'S POSSIBLE BETWEEN TWO AND EIGHT IN THE MORNING FOR THE CAYSE METRO MORE LIKELY THE FAHERTR WEST YOU GO WHAT WE'RE REFERRING TO THE POSSIB. OF DAMAGING WINDS HEAVY RAIN A BRIEF WEE TKORNADO CANNOT BE RULED OUT.

Hopefully, more for the morning update . . . STAY TUNED!!!


Kansas City protest chatter and a controversial "talking point" have sparked outrage amongst conservatives across the nation.



Whilst Portland rioted, this bit of street side bravado in Kansas City earned a more stern rebuke because of the brazen and loose talk . . . Still, people say a lot of things and whilst the rhetoric isn't inspiring (actually, it's gutter talk) we're not sure if constitutes an actionable call to violence . . . To be fair, we usually tune out whenever somebody rants with a megaphone.

Update: This lady did, reportedly, have a "conversation" with KCPD after her street side tirade.



Special thanks to readers for sending this note our way . . . We linked the drama yesterday but this story has more deets and insight:

BLM To Kansas City Police: 'We Gonna Blow Your Motherf-cking Head Off' Footage captured Tuesday on the anniversary of the death of George Floyd shows a Black Lives Matter demonstrator in Kansas City threatening to murder law enforcement. "Cause we're tired of being shot and killed because we're gonna get pulled over for air fresheners," the woman said.

Developing . . .
This cowtown might not agree on how to confront social justice rioters but threatening illicit motorists offers a rare bit of clarity.



Moreover . . .

Given that innocent victims have been killed at illegal "sideshows" and bold street racers have even dared to threaten downtown development . . . Mayor & Council have no choice but to get tough.



Accordingly, here's a peek at new efforts that will impose stricter fines and maybe confiscate a few hot cars until street racers get the point.



Developing . . .
Fact of life . . .

IF THE YOUNG LADY WHO KILLS YOU IS EVEN REMOTELY ATTRACTIVE SHE WON'T DO HARD TIME!!! THIS BROAD CHOPPED A GUY'S HEAD OFF AND SHE'S ALREADY GETTING TIME OFF!!!



The deets on this story are fascinating and, sadly, the poor simp who was detached from his dome was trying to help the young lady and was tragically unaware of how badly his good deeds would be punished.



Sarah Gonzales-McLinn, now 26, was sentenced in 2015 to 50 years in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder of 52-year-old Harold Sasko.



Sasko lived with Gonzales-McLinn, who was 19 at the time of his death. Prosecutors said Gonzeles-McLinn drugged and bound Sasko before nearly decapitating him on the Jan. 17, 2014, The Lawrence Journal-World reported.

Appropriate quote from our favorite feminist . . .



Frida Kahlo: "They say never trust a limping dog or the tears of a woman."

Read more . . .
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 19:10:52|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

KAMPALA, May 27 (Xinhua) -- State-owned Uganda Airlines is set to start direct flights to Johannesburg, South Africa, in a move to expand connections on the African continent.

The airline in a statement issued on Thursday said the first flight of the four-times-weekly flights from Entebbe to Johannesburg is scheduled for May 31.

According to the statement, the Johannesburg flight will enhance connectivity to and from the carrier's current network which includes to Kenya, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Sudan, Somalia, and Burundi.

Apart from its Africa expansion move, the carrier this year received two long-haul aircraft targeting the European, Middle East and Asian market.

Government is optimistic that the revival of the national flag carrier will boost the country's economic growth and tourism. Enditem
Here's an exceptionally classy and informative report from a denizen of our blog community who skillfully offers a glimpse at the good life and the rising cost of a good time amid the "woke" era of doing biz.



Read more . . .



Whats French for Westport Bait and Switch???



Ca Va Champagne Bar and Restaurant, located at 4149 Westport Road, serves champagne, cocktails, and even beers. They do offer food and are open for an overpriced brunch, serving rather bland food. The service has always been excellent which almost makes up for a cleverly disguised bait-and-switch tactic theyre currently employing.



Perhaps the restaurant has always ripped me off the numerous times Ive had a splash or 7 at their bar. However, when I recommended the place to a friend, he went to YELP check out my recommendation and pointed out something on the menu Ive never noticed.



The menu reads:



Hospitality Fee will be included on all tabs.

Thank you for helping to ensure livable and competitive compensation for all staff,

and for helping us to move the restaurant industry into the future.



Nowhere on the menu does it tell me what this extra travel expense into the future will be.



Will my $6 Pommes Frites (French fires) cost double, or triple, with this new Hospitality Fee?



Will the waiter think, what kind of Hospitality Fee should I charge this drunk tonight, or this weeks earnings are low Ill charge this guy and his date a 100% fee.



According to one recent YELP review, the fee isnt disclosed until you get the check. Its a whopping 20%. When asked if that was the tip, the YELP reviewer was told the 20% Hospitality Fee was in addition to the expected tip.



And then I thought, I am completely missing the boat. I need to move my business into the future.



Im going to list really attractive pricing to bring customers into my business.



My next add will read: $1 to paint any home.



When I send the customer my bill, Ill add enough to make sure I can pay my mortgage, my crew of two, feed my kids, take my dog to the vet, and make up for bad career choices, by simply adding a hospitality fee at the bottom of the bill.



The thing is, Im pretty darn sure that when I send you a bill higher than what I quoted to paint your home, you might take exception with my excuse that Ive added a fee to ensure a livable and competitive compensation. I also think TV-5s Call for Action would be knocking on my door looking for a refund.



You see, when I sell my house painting services, I quote a price I think is fair for my labor and the buyer has the free choice of purchasing or not.



If my price cant pay for my crew of two and expenses, Ive made a miscalculation and will either raise my price or close my business. If I charge too much, and nobody buys, I have, again, made an error and will not be able to pay my crew or myself and Ill be forced to recalculate or go out of business.



As a business owner, I am always trying to discover a price that fits my needs and the needs of my customers. Charging enough to pay for overhead and a profit, and, hopefully, equaling what another is willing to freely pay for my services. Its the ONLY fair way of doing business.



Its not easy, but its honest.



You see, even dressing up this hospitality fee with words like livable and competitive compensation cant hide the fact that this is nothing more than an old-fashion bait-and-switch.



Buyer beware.

##############


Dispensation from attending mass because of the plague has been lifted.

We would joke about this one but the fact is that we know quite a few people who have been devastated by the loss of their faith community during COVID lockdowns.

Check the local message that just hit mailboxes this morning and couldn't wait until Sunday . . .



Catholic Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph encourages return to full participation in parish life with new campaign, Come Home to Communion



The premise . . .

The Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph has launched a new effort aimed at encouraging Catholics to return to a full participation in their parish communities on June 1, as Bishop James Johnston lifts the general dispensation. The general dispensation, which began in March 2020, excused all Catholics from in person participation at Sunday Mass and holy days of obligation due to the COVID-19 pandemic.



This past year was unprecedented in many ways and I am grateful for the resilient faith, determination, and cooperation of so many who have ensured that our churches, schools, ministries, and institutions of faith continued in service, while taking prudential steps toward promoting safety, said Bishop Johnston. Our full, conscious, and active participation in the Sacred Liturgy requires our physical presence at Mass. The Sunday celebration of Mass is also the source of our communion and community life together in all our parishes.

Money line . . .

"Due to greatly improved conditions, Bishop Johnston has removed all diocesan restrictions put in place during the pandemic. Since the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph spans 27 counties in north and western Missouri, encompassing urban, suburban and rural communities, parishes have been impacted by COVID-19 in different ways. The emergence from pandemic restrictions reflects the specific locations and needs of each parish community and will differ from parish to parish."



More . . .

The campaign officially launches today with billboards, social media, a website and online tool kits for the dioceses 98 parishes and missions to use in sharing the message with parishioners. Materials are available in English and Spanish, and some items will also be translated into Vietnamese in the coming weeks. Visit www.kcsjcatholic.org/comehome for details.

Here's a clip with more explanation . . .

Developing . . .
L.A. Parker is a Trentonian columnist. Find him on Twitter @LAParker6 or email him at LAParker@Trentonian.com.
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Jeff Edelstein is a columnist for The Trentonian. He can be reached at jedelstein@trentonian.com, facebook.com/jeffreyedelstein and @jeffedelstein on Twitter.
Johnstown, PA (15901)

Today

Mostly cloudy skies with some morning fog. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 82F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable.
Terre Haute, IN (47803)

Today

Mixed clouds and sun this morning. Scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 93F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms during the evening. Partly cloudy skies after midnight. Low 69F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 19:50:09|Editor: huaxia

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BAMAKO, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Mali's transitional President Bah N'Daw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane, who resigned on Wednesday, regained their freedom early Thursday morning, security sources told Xinhua.

"Prime Minister Moctar Ouane returned home last night. According to the members of the cabinet who visited him this Thursday morning, he is doing well and he is in good spirits," an official from the Prime minister office, who requested anonymity, told Xinhua. The official did not reveal the whereabouts of N'Daw.

Mali's transitional President Bah N'Daw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane were reportedly taken by force on Monday to the Kati military camp following the transitional president's announcement of his appointment of members of the government on the proposal of the prime minister.

The transitional president and prime minister had resigned, Baba Cisse, special adviser to Assimi Goita, Malian transitional vice president and president of the former National Committee for the Salvation of the People (CNSP), said on Wednesday.

Cisse justified the arrest of N'Daw and Ouane by "deep differences both on the form and substance concerning the course of the transition."

The leadership's resignations came as a delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), led by former Nigerian President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, visited Mali to press the military to back down. Enditem
Terre Haute, IN (47803)

Today

Partial cloudiness early, with scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 93F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Isolated thunderstorms this evening, then skies turning partly cloudy after midnight. Low 69F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Canton, GA (30114)

Today

Scattered clouds with the possibility of an isolated thunderstorm developing this afternoon. High 88F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 67F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 19:57:13|Editor: huaxia

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HONG KONG, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Thursday pledged extra vaccines and defence force support for Victoria state, which was put under a seven-day coronavirus lockdown, in the latest developments of the COVID-19 pandemic in Asia-Pacific countries.

Thailand reported 47 new COVID-19 fatalities, the highest tally in a single day, raising the country's death toll to 920, according to the Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA).

The country also reported 3,323 new cases, including 1,219 detected at prisons, taking the total number of infections to 141,217, according to the CCSA.

During the day, the cases in Indonesia increased by 6,278 in the past 24 hours to 1,797,499, with the death toll adding by 136 to 49,907, the Health Ministry said.

Afghanistan's Public Health Ministry reported 764 new COVID-19 cases, raising the total nationwide infections to 69,130, including over 9,200 active cases. The pandemic has so far claimed 2,881 lives in Afghanistan since February last year, including 12 deaths in the past 24 hours, the ministry said in a statement.

Cambodia reported 649 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, bringing the national case tally to 27,638 so far, the Ministry of Health (MoH) said in a statement. The new infections included 633 local cases and 16 imported ones.

The Philippines' Department of Health (DOH) reported 6,483 new COVID-19 infections, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the Southeast Asian country to 1,200,430. The death toll rose to 20,379 after 210 more patients died from the viral disease, the DOH said.

India's COVID-19 tally reached 27,369,093, with 211,298 new cases added during the past 24 hours, said the health ministry. Besides, as many as 3,847 deaths since Wednesday morning took the death toll to 315,235.

The pause in New Zealand's quarantine-free travel with Victoria will be extended for another seven days amid a new outbreak in the Australian state, said New Zealand COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins.

New Zealand reported one new case of COVID-19 in managed isolation and no new cases in the community.

Vietnam reported 25 new COVID-19 cases from 6 p.m. local time Wednesday to 6 a.m. Thursday, including 24 locally transmitted and one imported, raising the total confirmed cases in the country to 6,111, according to its Ministry of Health.

South Korea reported 629 more cases of COVID-19 as of midnight Wednesday compared to 24 hours ago, raising the total number of infections to 138,311. The daily caseload was down from 707 in the previous day, sending the daily average caseload for the past week to 599.

The Sri Lankan government has received another batch of Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccines donated by the Chinese government as the island country looks to vaccinate its citizens against the virus. Enditem
New York Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli speaks Jan. 18, 2021, during an event in New York.
A Connecticut immunologist is among a group of scientists calling for an independent investigation into whether COVID-19 occurred naturally or was created in a laboratory.

The call for an independent probe comes as President Joe Biden ordered the national intelligence community Wednesday to redouble their efforts to collect and analyze information about the origins of the virus.

What we're calling for is to have an unbiased team of scientists to investigate the origin of the virus, said Akiko Iwasaki, a professor of immunobiology at Yale University School of Medicine.

Iwasaki was among a multinational group of 18 researchers who published an opinion piece this month in the journal Science calling for a proper investigation into the origins of the virus, which they said should be transparent, objective, data-driven, inclusive of broad expertise, subject to independent oversight and responsibly managed to minimize the impact of conflicts of interest.

The purpose, Iwasaki said, is to prevent future pandemics.

I believe it's in the benefit of everyone to understand where the virus originated, so that we can collectively control such a pandemic from happening again, she said. If we don't know the source of the virus, how can we contain a similar kind of exposure next time? So I think the entire world would benefit from learning about the origin of the virus.

Iwaskai described a missing link between COVID-19 as it has been seen in wild bat populations and the virus that has, so far, infected 168 million and killed 3.49 million people worldwide.

Usually, when there's an outbreak, scientists are able to trace the outbreak from an animal all the way to humans, because it leaves a lot of traces, she said. When it first jumps to a person and then the next person, the next person, you can see how the virus evolves to become more and more infectious.

But with the coronavirus that caused the pandemic, there are missing pieces.

We have the SARS-CoV-2 virus that we can sequence now, and we have a close relative of that virus that was identified in the Wuhan Institute of virology, Iwasaki said. But that close relative is still about 40 years away from becoming SARS-CoV-2. So there's a big gap in between the ancestral virus and what's currently circulating.

At the start of the pandemic, there was a lot of talk about pangolins as a possible middle step, allowing the virus to mutate from bats to humans, but Iwasaki said there is no evidence yet to support that conjecture.

If that were the case, there would be an intermediary virus that was evolutionary connected to the original virus and the one that caused the pandemic. That intermediary virus has not yet been found.

We don't have any direct link right now from bats to humans, and how it actually transmitted, she said. There's this sort of window that we're missing as to how the virus actually entered the human population.

If, in fact, it was a naturally occurring virus, Iwasaki said, we need to identify what the intermediate host might be, so that we can limit access to that kind of transmission route.

Lab accidents, however, have happened before, and if the virus was developed in a laboratory, Iwasaki said an investigation might reveal the need for tighter regulations or different methods of research that will prevent this kind of leak from happening.

But in order for those safeguards to be established, Iwasaki and her colleagues believe that an independent group, perhaps under the auspices of the World Health Organization, should be given the freedom to investigate.

I really hope that such an investigation will be done in a completely unbiased way, without involving any parties that have a conflict of interest of any sort, she said. That is why we really need people who are not even linked to any of these institutions or companies or anyone who might benefit from an investigation.
Writer and performer Kyle Hernandez of Trinidad is receiving death threats, following a performance he did on local television station WESN, where he seemed to insult not only Tobagonians but the national bird of the island.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 20:01:02|Editor: huaxia

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TEHRAN, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Iran's presidential election campaign has officially gotten underway after the country's Interior Ministry announced the names of the qualified candidates for the country's 13th presidential race on Tuesday.

SEVEN CANDIDATES

Following an eight-day vetting process, Iran's Constitutional Council, which supervises elections, selected seven out of 592 hopefuls, giving them the green light to begin campaigns for the June 18 presidential election voting day.

The list comprises Judiciary Chief Ebrahim Raisi, former nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili, Secretary of Iran's Expediency Council Mohsen Rezaei, lawmaker Alireza Zakani, Deputy Parliament Speaker Amir Hossein Ghazizadeh Hashemi, Governor of the Central Bank of Iran Abdolnaser Hemmati and former Vice President Mohsen Mehralizadeh.

Some of the heavyweights failed to make their way to the final list, including First Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri and former parliament speaker Ali Larijani.

Of the candidates, Raisi, Jalili, Mehralizadeh and Rezaei have run for president in previous elections.

Raisi, who has been Iran's judiciary chief since 2019, has said he would be contesting the race "independently." He was a candidate in the 2017 election, where he lost to incumbent President Hassan Rouhani.

A number of the prominent hopefuls pulled out in Raisi's favor prior to the announcement of the final list, such as Rostam Qassemi and Hossein Dehqan, both former commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

MIXED REACTIONS

The list, which was leaked on Monday, has triggered different reactions among the disqualified hopefuls and the qualified candidates.

Commenting on the Constitutional Council's list in an address to a Wednesday cabinet meeting, Rouhani said he had written a letter to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Tuesday asking for his assistance regarding the election, the official IRNA news agency reported.

Rouhani said people's discernment is the main criterion, meaning that the ground must be fully prepared for them to come to vote and help the election come to fruition.

In a statement reported by IRNA, Jahangiri said the liabilities of his disqualification and its political and social implications lie with the Constitutional Council.

Reacting to the list, Raisi posted a video on his Instagram page, saying since being informed about the candidate list on Monday, he has been holding consultations to make the presidential race more competitive, and thus attract a larger turnout.

In response, Siamak Rahpeik, a jurist member and deputy secretary of the Constitutional Council said the disqualification of nominees has nothing to do with their political inclinations.

He explained that the council is only tasked with implementing the rule of law and the body's regulations, and disregards political leanings while making decisions.

During a meeting via video-link with members of the Iranian Parliament on Thursday, Khamenei said the Constitutional Council's work was based on legal procedures, urging Iranians to participate in the election, Iranian news network Press TV reported.

CAMPAIGN SPOTLIGHT

According to the schedule, the presidential election campaign officially starts from the date of announcing the candidate names and will end 24 hours before the election day, which is slated on June 18 this year.

At a campaign meeting on Wednesday with businessmen and members of Iran's commerce, unions and cooperative chambers, Raisi outlined his plans to tackle the economic problems.

"We want a strong Iran and the groundwork is already laid," he was quoted as saying by Press TV.

"Human resources, mines and treasures in the country serve as the basis. What's now needed is efficient, arduous management, which could turn these elements into power and strength," he said.

Also, "we believe in interactions with the entire world in order to solve the (country's) economic issues, (but) the regional countries should be a priority," he added.

In a press conference on Wednesday, Hashemi, another contender, vowed that his future administration, if elected, would neutralize all the anti-Iranian sanctions, Mehr News Agency reported.

He said that the target would be reached by relying on the Iranian nation, the Islamic Republic's allies across the world, and the reinforcement of ties with neighboring countries.

"Although some of the contenders have stronger professional backgrounds, we cannot really tell who holds a better chance to win the top executive post, before all candidates lay out their plans," Press TV said. Enditem
Northrup Grumman B-2 Spirit Bomber [4].

1 Describe the organisation, core activities and additional services it provides

Northrup Grumman is an American based global Aerospace and Defense company which is currently one of the largest defense contractors in the world. The firm employs over 90,000 employees and operates in more than 550 facilities in the US and in more than 25 countries globally [8].

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The company was formed in 1939 after Jack Northrop left Douglas (known for its conception of the semi-monocoque DC-3 plane), then spent a majority of his resources on developing a flying wing bomber - a feat that met heavy criticism at the time. Over the years, the firm acquired a multitude of high-profile companies including Grumman Aerospace, Xetron corporation and Navia aviation to name a few [1], and has established a large portfolio of products such as ballistic missiles, commercial/military radar, Apollo 16 Lunar Module and fighter/bomber aircraft [4].

Figure 1: Northrup Grumman MQ-4C Triton drone [8].

The firms core activities are made up of five main business sectors each with their own respective additional services [4]:

Missions Systems - Encompasses navigation, electronic warfare, airborne radar and logistics systems.

- Encompasses navigation, electronic warfare, airborne radar and logistics systems. Aerospace systems  Development of manned/unmanned aircraft and subsystems with key products including the iconic B-2 Stealth Bomber and the unmanned MQ-4C Triton drone.

 Development of manned/unmanned aircraft and subsystems with key products including the iconic B-2 Stealth Bomber and the unmanned MQ-4C Triton drone. Innovations systems development of vehicles such as the Cygnus spacecraft and the upcoming Omega space launch vehicle.

development of vehicles such as the Cygnus spacecraft and the upcoming Omega space launch vehicle. Ship Building  Design and production of battle ships including guided missile interceptors, assault ships, aircraft carriers and submarines.

 Design and production of battle ships including guided missile interceptors, assault ships, aircraft carriers and submarines. Technology services  Provision of network-centric solutions which includes training, maintenance support and communications materials to the military, telecommunications, medical, and other markets.

2 What does the market look like?

For the purpose of focus, the report analysis will revolve solely on the Aerospace & defense sector.

Who is their target customer and what defines them?

Northrup Grummans targest customers primarily consist of the US military, followed by other countries governments and also private commercial firms. Unlike the commercial sector, the unique attribute of a governmental customer base is that large amounts of capital are available to invest into contractors as defense is typically highly-funded by governments who are keen to keep their sector competitive. The US spends a significantly large amount on defense spending (figure 2) in comparison to other countries, allowing Northrup Grumman to capitalise on this large to spend on research & development of its solutions and also in its other business sectors.

Figure 2: Global defense expenditure in 2019 [10].

What does the market look like and what are its key drivers?

In 2018, the Aerospace and Defense industry experienced a strong year as global military expenditure followed a positive upwards trend and was followed by a booming defense sector in 2019 [6]. The defense sector is expected to robustly continue its growth trajectory in 2020 and beyond, backed by a global defense spending increase of 3% compound annual growth rate between 2019-2023 [7]. This growth in the defense factor is believed to be a consequence of numerous factors:

Elevated global tensions have continuously been pivotal to Aerospace and Defense spending. NATO countries have been investing largely into defense due to the ever increasing potential threats from Russia, North Korea and the Middle East in the near-term [3]. The recent escalations between the US and Iran are an example of a situational that prompts governments to improve their capability of instigating/preventing conflict.

The Trump era has allowed the defense sector to flourish. In December 2019, Donald Trump approved a bill that authorised a Defense budget of $738 billion [7]. This was favourable for defense contractors as there will be large demand for massive projects with possibility for further scope due to the larger availability of capital. This demand has been realised with a $3 billion US order for Northrup Grummans next-generation B-21 Bomber aircraft [7].

Higher defense spending by other major regional powers such as China, Saudi Arabia, India, and Japan has continued to increase as the demand for military equipment is on the rise. Northrup Grummans presence in other countries that are spending more on defense benefits them greatly. An example was the firms award of the $75 million IDIQ contract award to deliver Joint Threat Emitter (JTE) support services to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 2018 [11].

As seen throughout history, military modernisation is a large factor in government funding in defense and especially in the modern age, there is now an increased focus on cyber-security concerns. The uncertainty and complexity of this international security ecosystem is highly likely to boost global defense spending over the next five years. Northrup Grummans wealth of cyber and logistics capabilities provides a firm advantage to this market driver.

Numerous countries have rapidly been developing their reach into Space in the recent decade. Thus, Aerospace and Defense is becoming an important part of the overall Space industry with growing global tensions potentially posing a threat to space assets such as satellites, which are often relied upon for military operations including communications, reconnaisance and commercial purposes.

What does the competition look like?

The Aerospace defense contracting market is highly competitive with the main market competitors being Lockheed Martin and Boeing (figure 9). The top competitors are all slightly differentiated in terms of their portfolio which typically may or may not solely focus on Aerospace and Defense. There is also a growing possibility of new low-cost competitors entering the market, including the emergence of possibly strong aerospace manufacturing centres in China and Russia [13].

Figure 3: Backlog of defense orders 2018/2017 [5].

Figure 4: Northrup Grumman 2019 Sales mix [2].

Figure 5: Lockheed Martin 2019 Sales mix [12].

By analysis of its main competitor, Lockheed Martin, it can be seen that its primary income source is also Aeronautics, much like Northrup Grumman. One of the crucial drivers of Lockheed Martins current sizable success is the globally-sold F35 Joint-strike fighter, which Northrup Grumman does not have a direct competitor to. In 2018, the F-35 generated 27% of Lockheeds total consolidated revenue and 68% of its Aeronautics segments revenue [12]. The firm has now exceeded its delivery targets for 2019 and has secured global orders for 478 F-35 fighter jets at a cost of $34 billion over the next three years [12].

3 What is the business model?

As seen in figure 3, Northrup Grumman utilises various separate sectors as sources of revenue as opposed to solely one. An advantage of having numerous segments is that reduced revenue streams from one can be compensated for by revenue from other segments. This allows the business to be protected by unforeseen market forces due to the dispersion of business risk and grants a stable liquidity position. Another advantage is their ability to utilise resources and opportunities across multiple industries in which it operates in, allowing for cost reduction and process streamlining.

Figure 4: Northrup Grumman Business model 2018-2019 [2].

Northrup Grummans primary customer is the US government and they achieve sales via bidding for contracts meaning that they do not need to spend large sums of money marketing their products to the general market like other companies  this frees up capital that can be diverted to more important cost sources. Northrup Grummans most important costs involve: Research and development, manufacturing costs, supply chain and software support. For example, the B-2 Bomber program cost the company $44.75 billion and was sold at $737 million per unit [14]. A downside of having the US government as a primary customer is that this exposes the company to numerous regulations, risk of government disapprovals or sudden contract cancellations. These factors can cause material liability, adversely affecting their potential to bid for other contracts.

4 What is their Strategy?

Northrup Grumman is very successful as it has historically provided innovative products at low costs. The company invests a significant amount of its total revenue into research and development activities to acquire valuable components and develop reusable product lines. Entering a more technology-oriented age, if the firm adopted smart factory initiatives, it could drive a 1012% gain in factory productivity without need for major capital investment [9]. They have also previously increased its investment prospects and focused on financial sustainability through share repurchases and raising dividends [16].

Industry 4.0 Key components [17].

A recent trend amongst Aerospace and defense companies that Northrup Grumman is following is to only bid on projects that will yield the best financial returns. The firm declined bidding on the US Air forces new GPS satellites and even the F-35 DAS systems which they were suited for [8], showing that long-term sustained performance is crucial to the firms strategy as opposed to short-term gains. This reluctance on bidding has been prompted by past circumstances where even when a bid was won, the government changed the terms of the contract to the point where it was no longer worth the effort. A historical example might have been the Grumman F-14 Tomcat where the firm could not deliver the aircraft at the requested price without risking bankruptcy [1].

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A current problem they are facing is the battle for the contract against Lockheed Martin and Boeing for US bomber aircraft. Senator John McCain has previously threatened legislation that would undo the B-21 contract unless the air force replaces it with fixed-price terms, like the Boeing KC-46A programme [15]. The total requirement for 100 stealth bombers to replace the Boeing B-52 and B-1B is worth an estimated $80 billion [15]. The firm recently advertised the bomber aircraft during the highly-watched Super Bowl event in a bid to raise publicity and public favour towards them. This strategy is a first for Northrup Grumman or any defense company, which could potentially be in their favour. Another potential solution to spread risk would be to allow for the B-21 to be sold to other countries and commercially, much like the F-35, providing a potentially massive source of revenue and competitive edge.

*1540 word count excluding Titles, subtitles, figure captions, reference page.

[1]Reference for business, Northrup Grumman Company profile., https://www.referenceforbusiness.com/history2/67/Northrop-Grumman-Corporation.html accessed February 13, 2020.

[2]Northrup Grumman, FQ4 Conference call, January 2020, http://investor.northropgrumman.com/static-files/bc9eadd7-2c4e-4557-83be-2c21042ef4af accessed February 13, 2020.

[3]R. Lineberger, Deloitte Global A&D sector outlook, https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/global/Documents/Manufacturing/gx-eri-2019-global-a-and-d-sector-outlook.pdf Accessed February 13, 2020.

[4]Northrup Grumman, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northrop_Grumman accessed February 13,2020.

[5]PWC, Aerospace & Defense sector outlook 2019, https://www.pwc.com/us/en/industrial-products/publications/assets/pwc-aerospace-defense-2018-review-2019-forecast.pdf accessed February 13, 2020.

[6]IATA, Industry Statistics, June 2018, https://www.iata.org/pressroom/facts_figures/fact_sheets/Documents/fact-sheet-industry-facts.pdf accessed February 13, 2020.

[7]SIPRI, Trends in world military expenditure, 2019. accessed February 13, 2020.

[8]Northrup Grumman, https://www.northropgrumman.com/, accessed February 13, 2020.

[9]P. Wellener et al., 2019 Deloitte and MAPI Smart Factory Study: Capturing value through the digital journey, Deloitte Insights, https://www2.deloitte. com/us/en/insights/industry/manufacturing/driving-value-smart-factorytechnologies.html, accessed February 13, 2020.

[10]Stockholm International Peace Institute, SIPRI Military Expenditure Database, 2019. accessed February 13, 2020.

[11]Northrup Grumman, February 2018, https://news.northropgrumman.com/news/releases/northrop-grumman-to-provide-advanced-electronic-warfare-simulation-capability-to-kingdom-of-saudi-arabia, accessed February 13, 2020.

[12]M. Johnston,How Lockheed Martin makes its money, January 2020, https://www.investopedia.com/articles/markets/102715/how-lockheed-martin-makes-its-money-lmt.asp

Accessed February 13, 20

[13]R.A Bitzinger and N.Popescu, Defence industries in Russia and China, December 2017, https://www.iss.europa.eu/sites/default/files/EUISSFiles/Report_38_Defence-industries-in-Russia-and-China.pdf Accessed February 13, 2020.

[14]United States General Accounting Office (GAO). "B-2 Bomber: Cost and Operational Issues Letter Report, 14 August 1997, GAO/NSIAD-97-181.", accessed February 13, 2020.

[15]J.Drew, Penalty for break Northrups B-21 contract,March 2016, https://www.flightglobal.com/penalty-for-breaking-northrops-b-21-contract-is-300-million/119961.article, accessed February 13, 2020.

[16]Marketline, Northrup Grumman Company report, August 2017, https://store.marketline.com/report/mlpm0004-005--northrop-grumman-corporation-company-strategy-performance-analysis/, Accessed February 13, 2020

[17]Metasmartfactory, https://metasmartfactory.com/,Accessed February 13, 2020
Over the past day, May 26, nine ceasefire violations were recorded in the Joint Forces Operation area in eastern Ukraine.

The enemy opened fire from 120mm mortars and weapons on infantry fighting vehicles near Krymske (42km north-west of Luhansk); 82mm mortars  outside Pisky (11km north-west of Donetsk); 82mm mortars, different grenade launchers, heavy machine guns, and small arms  in the area of Prychepylivka (50km north-west of Luhansk); grenade machine guns and heavy machine guns  near Krasnohorivka (21km west of Donetsk); different grenade launchers and small arms  in the suburbs of Pavlopil (25km north-west of Mariupol); hand-held anti-tank and under-barrel grenade launchers  near Vodiane (94km south of Donetsk); heavy machine guns and small arms  outside Pivdenne (40km north-east of Donetsk); sniping weapons  in the area of Avdiivka (17km north of Donetsk), the press center of the JFO Headquarters reports.

As of 7 a.m. on May 27, two ceasefire violations were reported.

As the Headquarters notes, Ukrainian defenders fired back in response to enemy shelling. Ukrainian troops sustained no losses. The Ukrainian side of the JCCC informed the OSCE SMM about the ceasefire violations.

The situation in the Joint Forces Operation area remains completely controlled by the Ukrainian military.

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Ukraine's National Commission for State Regulation of Energy and Utilities will limit electricity imports from Russia and Belarus until October 1, 2021.

According to Ukrinform, the regulator approved a respective draft resolution "On the distribution of capacity of interstate power grids" at an open meeting on May 26.

"At joint meetings, we came to the conclusion that together with electricity producers we should monitor the state of preparation for the autumn and winter period and the situation with the accumulation of coal. Although imports were necessary this winter, this does not mean that we will not extend the ban. Today we are ready to do it only by October 1," said Valerii Tarasiuk, the head of the National Commission for State Regulation of Energy and Utilities.

The draft resolution provides for a temporary restriction of available capacity, which is distributed at daily and monthly auctions for 2021, in terms of interstate power grids between Ukraine and states that are not members of the Energy Community (Russia and Belarus). At the same time, the introduction of mechanisms to control the accumulation of coal is envisaged.

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The G7 Ambassadors and the EU Delegation stated their political support for the institutional development of the State Customs Service of Ukraine, as well as readiness to deepen further cooperation.

This was discussed during the meeting of Chairman of the State Customs Service Pavlo Riabikin with the G7 Ambassadors and the leadership of the EU Delegation to Ukraine on May 26, Ukrinform reports with reference to the website of the State Customs Service.

During the meeting, the parties discussed the process of reforming the State Customs Service of Ukraine. In particular, Chairman of the State Customs Service informed about the main areas of change: personnel reform, legislative changes, IT transformation, development of customs infrastructure.

"My first impression of the State Customs Service was that the institute had been in a state of formal reform over the past ten years. Over the period of so-called reforms, the institute was almost destroyed. We have a very negative image in society as one of the most corrupt organizations in the country. To change this, we need to follow not a revolutionary path for change at customs but take gradual steps  day after day, month after month," Riabikin said.

U.S. Charge d'Affaires in Ukraine Kristina Kvien stressed the importance of testing State Customs Service officers, praised the organization of the event, and expressed U.S. support for cooperation on personnel reform.

Representatives of the G7 countries and the EU Delegation thanked for the meeting and expressed full support for the reforms of the Service. In particular, Charge d'Affaires of the United Kingdom in Ukraine Nicolas Harrocks said: "Thank you and your colleagues for your time and presentation. You have explained a lot to us about the ongoing processes at customs. And I hope that we will keep in touch in our joint work."

"Among other things, the G7 Ambassadors and the EU Delegation stated the political support for the mentioned way of institutional development of the State Customs Service, as well as readiness to deepen further cooperation in these areas," the statement reads.

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Next week, the Ukrainian authorities will sign a memorandum on the development of stock market infrastructure with the EBRD, the American Chamber of Commerce, and USAID.

"We are working on the development of the stock market infrastructure. Already next week we will sign a memorandum with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the American Chamber of Commerce, and USAID on development and procurement. A rather big sum of money is provided for the clearing system for stock market development in Ukraine," Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said at the opening of the UkraineInvest Talks Dnipro international investment forum, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

According to him, it will be possible to fill the stock market with a number of tools, including the launch of a defined contribution pension system. A draft law has already been agreed on with the relevant parliamentary committee.

"We will continue to ask the committees and the parliament to support this draft law. It provides an investment resource of approximately up to $50 billion in developed countries actually in 10-15 years, and Ukraine is no exception. This will be a resource accumulated from these non-state pension funds," the Prime Minister said.

The UkraineInvest Talks Dnipro forum is aimed at popularizing the investment environment in Ukrainian regions. Mayors, representatives of the business community, international financial organizations, and the expert community participate in the event.

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The establishment of a national air carrier will contribute to the development of aircraft construction and make tickets for domestic flights cheaper.

"The development of the Ukrainian national airline should also contribute to the development of aircraft construction in Ukraine. For the first time in 30 years, the state has started actively ordering aircraft from our factories. In particular, an agreement was reached and contracts were signed for the supply of three An aircraft for the Armed Forces and two An aircraft for the Ministry of Internal Affairs," Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal said during a working trip to Dnipropetrovsk region, Ukrinform reports with reference to the Government portal.

He noted that the establishment of a national air carrier would help to perform two tasks at once: to develop aircraft construction and make tickets for domestic flights cheaper.

According to the Prime Minister, the newly appointed Minister of Infrastructure Kubrakov was tasked to speed up the negotiation and work process to create such a national air carrier. Relevant memoranda are expected to be concluded in the near future.

On May 27, Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal makes a working visit to Dnipropetrovsk region.

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Ukraine needs to develop public-private partnerships with successful companies to improve economic development, according to Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.

He said this while visiting Flight Control LLC in Dnipro on Thursday, May 27, the government's press service reported.

"The enterprise is an example of how successful Ukrainian companies can be on world markets. Evidence of this, in particular, is a project for the production of units and systems for the lunar landing module as part of the implementation of the NASA space program. I believe that the practice of public-private partnership with leading Ukrainian companies should be actively implemented," Shmyhal said.

The company's employees noted their high skills thanks to technical educational institutions in Ukraine. Shmyhal, in turn, stressed that the development of vocational education was a key task facing the Ministry of Education and Science.

Flight Control specializes in research and experimental development in the field of natural and technical sciences. The enterprise deals with scientific space research and development of space technology. In particular, Flight Control cooperates with space companies from Ukraine, the United States, and Europe.

Shmyhal is on a working visit to Dnipropetrovsk region on May 27.

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Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba and U.S. Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick discussed the latest developments around the construction of Russias Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline.

According to Ukrinform, Kuleba announced this on Twitter.

"Good to speak with U.S. Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick to reaffirm the Ukraine-U.S. strategic partnership and discuss the latest developments on Nord Stream 2. Pleased to hear that the long-standing bipartisan and bicameral support of Ukraine in the U.S. Congress remains unwavering," the foreign minister wrote.

As known, Ukraine regards Nord Stream 2 as one of the most dangerous geopolitical projects of Russia.

Nord Stream 2, a 1,200 km-long gas pipeline between Russia and Germany, is already 94% complete. A year ago, the pipeline's construction was suspended due to U.S. sanctions, but the Russian side resumed work on its own with the consent of the German side. However, recently, the new U.S. administration, in order to improve relations with the Federal Republic of Germany, somewhat softened its position by removing the Nord Stream 2 AG operator and its management from sanctions.

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 20:07:45|Editor: huaxia

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YEREVAN, May 27 (Xinhua) -- The Armenian Defense Ministry said Thursday that six Armenian servicemen were taken captive by Azerbaijani troops near the border.

The ministry said in a statement on its website that the Azerbaijan armed forces surrounded and captured the Armenian soldiers on early Thursday morning when they were carrying out engineering works in Gegharkunik province bordering Azerbaijan.

"Necessary measures are being taken to return the captured servicemen," said the defense ministry.

Meanwhile, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry confirmed in a statement that they have arrested six Armenian servicemen, while accusing the Armenian soldiers of attempting to enter Azerbaijan's territory in the direction of Yukhari Ayrim of the Kalbajar region near the border on Thursday.

The incident occurred amid a mounting tension on the southern border between Armenia and Azerbaijan recently.

Earlier this month, Armenia accused Azerbaijani troops of crossing the southern border and advancing more than three km into Armenia's Syunik region, which the Azerbaijani side had denied.

Both countries said they will try to resolve the dispute by peaceful negotiations. Enditem
Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal discussed the progress of reforms in Ukraine with the heads of diplomatic missions of the European Union, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

The meeting gathered together Head of the European Union Delegation to Ukraine Matti Maasikas, Charge d'Affaires of the United States in Ukraine a.i. Kristina Kvien, Charge d'Affaires of the United Kingdom in Ukraine Nicolas Harrocks, First Vice Prime Minister of Ukraine - Minister of Economy Oleksii Lyubchenko, Justice Minister Denys Maliuska, Minister of Finance Serhii Marchenko, and Minister of Energy Herman Halushchenko, the Government portal informs.

Last week, the Verkhovna Rada passed at first reading the bills needed to receive macro-financial assistance and IMF tranche. The amendments for the second reading are currently being prepared. We hope that they will be adopted as a whole soon, Shmyhal said during the meeting.

The Prime Minister pointed out the importance of keeping in touch with Ukraines partners on the implementation of all reforms, including anti-corruption, judicial, corporate governance, launch of gas and electricity markets.

In addition, Shmyhal noted that the bill on liability for false declaration of wealth had been submitted by the President of Ukraine and adopted at first reading last month. Also, the bill concerning the activity of the High Council of Justice was approved at first reading.

During the meeting, the parties discussed, in particular, corporate governance reform and the gas market operation. Shmyhal assured the heads of diplomatic missions that the launch of the gas market in Ukraine was irreversible.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has welcomed the successful evacuation of 109 Ukrainians and citizens of other countries from the Gaza Strip, the press service of the head of state has reported.

"The humanitarian operation took place amid armed confrontation in the region. Ukraine, forced to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity from armed aggression and rebuild war-torn territories for the eighth year, understands the value of every human life like no one else. The safety of people is always a priority for Ukraine. Therefore, the passport with a blue and yellow flag is a guarantee that the state will not leave their citizens alone with trouble," the report reads.

In order to organize the evacuation of Ukrainians from the Gaza Strip, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry and diplomats held a series of difficult negotiations. In close cooperation and coordination, state institutions ensured the safe return of Ukrainians home. This is exactly what the state should do to save its citizens, the President's Office said.

Zelensky said that Ukrainians can always count on the help of their country, no matter what situation they find themselves in.

According to the report, 13 Moldovan citizens and four Bulgarian citizens were evacuated together with Ukrainians.

Israeli security forces and Palestinians clashed on May 7 near the Temple Mount and in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood in eastern Israel. After the prayer on the Temple Mount, the worshippers started hurling stones at the police. The latter responded with rubber bullets, stun grenades and tear gas.

Hamas militants, who control the Gaza Strip, fired rockets at Israel. The Israeli Air Force responded with air strikes on targets in the Gaza Strip.

The WHO estimates that 222 people have been killed and 6,046 have been injured in the Gaza Strip.

Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire on May 20.

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OSCE Secretary General Helga Schmid has stated that the OSCE will support efforts to resolve the conflict in eastern Ukraine on the basis of Minsk and Normandy formats as this is the only way to settle it.

"I would also like to note on behalf of the OSCE that during Sweden's chair of this organization, we will support all efforts to resolve the conflict on the basis of the Minsk process, and we will support the Normandy format. Of course, this is the only way to settle this conflict," Schmid said at a joint press conference with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba in Kyiv following the talks on May 26, an Ukrinform correspondent reported.

She assured that the OSCE was documenting the incidents taking place in occupied Crimea. In addition, the Secretary General is convinced of the need to expand the capacities of the Special Monitoring Mission and focus more on mine action.

Schmid noted that the work of the OSCE SMM was highly valued in Ukraine, adding that the Mission faces restrictions on access to the territories.

As reported, OSCE Secretary General Helga Schmid makes a visit to Ukraine on May 26-30, during which she plans to meet with high-ranking officials and visit the Joint Forces Operation area in eastern Ukraine.

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Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has said he believes that NATO has not taken any steps in an open door policy for Ukraine since the 2008 Bucharest Summit.

He said this at a joint press conference with OSCE Secretary General Helga Schmid in Kyiv on Wednesday, May 26, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

"Of course, we are grateful to our NATO partners for their continued confirmation of the open door policy based on the 2008 Bucharest Summit, but 13 years have passed since then and not a single step has been taken to implement that decision," Kuleba said.

He added that "Ukraine is sometimes criticized for implementing reforms too slowly, but what can then be said about the adoption and implementation of the Alliance's decisions that have been gathering dust for 13 years."

Kuleba stressed that it was important to prevent the open door policy from turning into a "policy of giving nothing but promises." He said he was convinced that it was difficult to imagine a better and more important time than 2021 for granting the Membership Action Plan to Ukraine.

"We are talking openly about this with our NATO partners, and I think it is time to talk openly with Ukrainian society so that they clearly realize that the ball is not always in Ukraine's court when it comes to Euro-Atlantic integration. And we are waiting for a pass from the Alliance," Kuleba said.

He also stressed that he understood NATO's desire to hold a closed summit in June, but did not understand the expediency of holding a closed summit amid Russian aggression.

"To be honest, we absolutely do not understand how a closed NATO summit can be held against the background of the Russian Federation's aggressive actions against Ukraine in the Black Sea region and against the Alliance itself. I mean the latest events, the latest results of the investigation in the Czech Republic. We cannot understand this. How can they not invite Ukraine? How can they not find a format for [Ukraine's] participation in this year's summit?" Kuleba said.

During the 2008 Bucharest Summit, NATO heads of state and government made a political decision that Ukraine and Georgia would be members of NATO and that the provision of a MAP should be a step in this direction.

Ukraine expressed hope that the MAP could be granted during the NATO summit to be held in Brussels on June 14.

However, Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration Olha Stefanishyna said after her visit to Brussels on May 20 that "we understand that this year's summit is not the summit where the decision on the MAP will be made."

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Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba has asked OSCE Secretary General Helga Schmid to pay more attention to the situation in the occupied Crimea.

He said this at a joint press conference with Schmid in Kyiv following the talks on May 26, an Ukrinform correspondent reported.

I addressed Ms. Schmid with a request that the OSCE SMM pay much more attention to the situation in the occupied Crimea and step up its efforts in the Crimean direction. We need the OSCE to pay more attention to Russia's unilateral steps that undermine the basic principles and commitments of the OSCE," Kuleba said.

During the meeting, the parties discussed the settlement of the Russian-Ukrainian armed conflict. The foreign minister stressed that Ukraine appreciates the efforts made by the OSCE and the Special Monitoring Mission.

Kuleba assured Schmid that Ukraine remains committed to the political and diplomatic settlement of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict.

As Ukrinform reported, OSCE Secretary General Helga Schmid makes a visit to Ukraine on May 26-30, during which she plans to meet with high-ranking officials and visit the Joint Forces Operation area in eastern Ukraine.

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The European Union and the United States exchanged views on deepening cooperation on key international issues and expressed mutual concern over developments in Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus.

This was said during a meeting between European External Action Service Secretary General Stefano Sannino and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman in Brussels on May 26, Ukrinform reports with reference to the European External Action Service website.

The parties discussed a range of foreign policy issues of mutual concern, such as Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus, and the recent violence in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza. They exchanged views on the Eastern Mediterranean, Western Balkans, Afghanistan, Syria, Myanmar, the Indo-Pacific, Ethiopia, and Venezuela, the report reads.

During the meeting, the two sides underscored the shared EU-US interest in strengthening the rules-based international order and pledged further close cooperation in support of democratic values, global and regional stability, and universal human rights.

The next high-level meeting will take place in winter 2021/2022.

As reported, the administration of U.S. President Joe Biden is pursuing a consistent course of restoring transatlantic ties that have weakened over the past several years. During a recent visit by Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Brussels, the sides expressed their vision of a "historic opportunity" for renewed momentum in the partnership between Europe and North America.

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Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States Oksana Markarova held a virtual meeting with the leadership of the Congressional Ukrainian Caucus (CUC), during which the issues of strategic partnership were discussed.

The Embassy of Ukraine in the United States reported this on Facebook.

The parties discussed the progress of key issues of the strategic partnership between Ukraine and the United States, in particular, the strengthening of Ukrainian-American defense cooperation and security assistance to Ukraine; the process of reforms in Ukraine, important both for improving the rule of law, accelerating development, and Euro-Atlantic integration, the report reads.

Special attention was paid to the issue of countering the construction of Nord Stream 2 and hybrid attacks by Russia.

Markarova stressed the importance of sanctions pressure on the Russian Federation, given the risks that the Russian gas pipeline poses both to Ukraine and to the energy stability and security of Europe and the Black Sea region.

For their part, the congressmen emphasized the preservation of bipartisan support for Ukraine. In addition, they reaffirmed their readiness to continue working together to counter the aggression of the Russian Federation, as well as to promote the economic and social development of Ukraine to improve the well-being of its citizens.

As Ukrinform reported, on May 26, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba and U.S. Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick discussed the latest developments around the construction of Russias Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline. "Pleased to hear that the long-standing bipartisan and bicameral support of Ukraine in the U.S. Congress remains unwavering," Kuleba wrote on Twitter.

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The head of the Ukrainian delegation to the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG), Leonid Kravchuk, believes that the events in Belarus may affect the situation in eastern Ukraine.

He said this on the air of Ukraine 24 TV channel, Ukrinform reports.

"Such a situation in Belarus can negatively affect the processes taking place inside Ukraine and the situation in Donbas. This is undoubtedly. Therefore, we must closely monitor the situation on the borders not only with Russia but also with Belarus," Kravchuk said.

He considers it obvious to change the Minsk format and to search for another city for holding meetings.

Kravchuk also announced his intention to address the OSCE regarding the search for a new format.

As Ukrinform reported, on May 23, Ryanair Flight 4978, traveling between Athens and Vilnius, Lithuania, was forced to land in Minsk by Belarusian authorities. Roman Protasevich, an opposition journalist and a founder of the Telegram channel Nexta on board, was arrested.

European leaders on Monday agreed to impose sectoral sanctions on Belarus and to bar E.U. airlines from flying over the country.

Ukraine suspended air travel with Belarus from 00:00 on May 26.

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Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Ukraine Remi Duflot says there is obvious progress in judicial reform in Ukraine.

He said this during a discussion entitled "Anti-Corruption Reform: Assessment of Progress and Actual Challenges" on May 27, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

We see achievements in the implementation of judicial reform. We also see an increase in transparency in this reform, the diplomat said.

He expressed confidence that such progress was irreversible.

Duflot also stressed that anti-corruption measures in Ukraine were an important element of EU monitoring.

In his opinion, Ukraine should also count on macro-financial support from the EU.

As reported, in April last year, the European Commission decided to provide Ukraine with EUR 1.2 billion of macro-financial assistance to reduce the burden on the budget in connection with the crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In December 2020, Ukraine received the first tranche worth EUR 600 million.

Ukraine's receipt of the second tranche of macro-financial assistance depends, in particular, on successful cooperation between Ukraine and the IMF, as well as the implementation of key reforms in the rule of law and the fight against corruption, in administrative and public financial management, in improving the business climate, and in sectoral reforms.

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The United Kingdom hopes to cooperate with Ukraine as it develops the international Crimean Platform to promote the de-occupation of the peninsula, according to Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for European Neighbourhood and the Americas Wendy Morton.

She wrote this on her Twitter account, according to Ukrinform.

"Looking forward to working with Ukraine as it develops the International Crimean Platform in response to Russia's annexation of the region. Good to talk with [Ukraine's First Deputy Foreign Minister] Emine Dzheppar on this crucial area today. The UK will not accept Russia's illegal annexation. Crimea is Ukraine," Morton tweeted.

The Crimean Platform is a new consultative and coordination format initiated by Ukraine to improve the effectiveness of the international response to the occupation of Crimea, respond to security challenges, increase international pressure on Russia, prevent further human rights violations and protect victims of the occupation regime, and to achieve the main goal of de-occupying Crimea and returning it to Ukraine.

The first Crimean Platform summit is scheduled for August 23, 2021.

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 20:11:02|Editor: huaxia

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GUIYANG, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Apple Inc. has officially put its first Chinese data center in the southwestern province of Guizhou into operation this week, local authorities said on Thursday.

The data center, jointly built by Apple and Guizhou-Cloud Big Data Industry Co., Ltd. in Gui'an New Area, commenced operation on Tuesday, according to the new area's administrative committee.

In 2017, Apple signed an agreement with the Guizhou provincial government to build its first Chinese data center in Gui'an New Area. With a contracted investment of 1 billion U.S. dollars, the data center plans to offer iCloud services on the Chinese mainland.

The data center is expected to further improve Chinese users' experience in terms of access speed and service reliability, as well as improve the overall reliability of Apple's products and services on the Chinese mainland.

Guizhou has become the front runner of China's big data industry due to its climate, power supply, and network infrastructure. The province has attracted a number of heavyweight players, such as Apple, Huawei, Tencent and Alibaba, to establish their cloud computing and big data centers as well as regional headquarters. Enditem
Flight TK 459 Istanbul-Kyiv with the fourth batch of the CoronaVac vaccine produced by Chinese company Sinovac Biotech arrived at Boryspil International Airport on the evening of May 26.

According an Ukrinform correspondent, the plane was supposed to arrive at 8:15 p.m. but landed earlier than scheduled.

In particular, 500,000 doses of the CoronaVac coronavirus vaccine arrived in Kyiv. This is the penultimate batch of the CoronaVac vaccine delivered by the Lekhim group of companies to Ukraine under a government contract.

In total, Ukraine has already received 1.2 million doses of the CoronaVac vaccine out of the contracted 1.9 million doses.

As reported, on May 26, the first batch of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, purchased at the public expense, was delivered to Ukraine. In particular, 117,000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine were delivered to Kyiv. The batch consists of 167,000 doses; 50,000 are expected to arrive by the end of the week. The purchase of the vaccine was made at the public expense through the Crown Agents.

The COVID-19 vaccination campaign in Ukraine began on February 24, 2021.

According to the Ministry of Health, Ukraine has reached an agreement on the supply of 42 million doses of coronavirus vaccines from different manufacturers by the end of 2021. The delivery will be carried out through direct contracts and the global COVAX Facility.

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| By Jena Frick

The graduation spirit filled the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) campus with a swell of excitement as students came together to receive their professional degrees the week of May 17. Several of the schools gave their convocations a personal touch by holding small, in-person ceremonies to celebrate the graduates and their accomplishments after a difficult and unpredictable year.

It feels very surreal, especially after the past year, Dan Yang, DDS 21, said after receiving his degree from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry (UMSOD). I think our dean actually said something very great at the ceremony, which was, Our class will be remembered for what we accomplished and not what we missed. That really resonated with me because this was a tough year, but we made it.

Graduates from the University of Maryland, School of Medicine celebrate after graduating and recieving their hoods in front of Davidge Hall.

Even without the stress and uncertainty of a global pandemic, this years graduation ceremony was a long time coming. Some students have been dreaming of this moment since childhood.

She has wanted to be a doctor since she was 3 years old, said Michelle Meyer, who had just watched her daughter, Nicole Meyer, MD 21, receive her MD hood in front of Davidge Hall. She made a collage when she was a toddler with pictures she cut out from magazines and said, I want to be a doctor. Now, here we are, her dream has come true.

In lieu of a large, indoor hooding ceremony, the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) instead had their students go to Davidge Hall in small groups. There, they were given the ceremonial hood by one of their professors to congratulate them on completing their medical school journey.

I know its not the typical type of hooding ceremony, but this year hasn't been a typical year, Paapa Nyanin, MD 21, said after receiving his hood. This atypical ceremony was par for the course, and Im just happy to be here with my fellow graduates.

The feeling was mutual for other graduates who earned their professional degrees that week. After an abnormal year of virtual learning, social distancing, and wearing masks and face shields, everyone was thrilled to celebrate this major milestone together.

To be honest, this year was very difficult, said Desire Renggli, DDS 21, who graduated from UMSOD and will be starting her general practice residency in Long Island, N.Y., in the fall. There were a couple of times where I was worried about whether or not I was going to finish on time, but we got through it and I couldnt have done it without all of my good friends. When they say it takes a village, it really does. Today, seeing everyone here has made it really special.

The celebrations did not end with the individual convocation ceremonies. Many graduates had plans to celebrate afterward with family and friends in a COVID-friendly location.

Its definitely exciting to have everyone in town together. Its been a long road, so you have to make sure you celebrate, said James Peabody Harrington, JD 21, who just graduated from the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law and will be starting a judicial clerkship with the Honorable Alison L. Asti in the Circuit Court for Anne Arundel County. Were going to head over to Patterson Park after this. Its going to be the first time that Ive even been able to see some people in a while, so were all really happy that this could happen.

Being surrounded by family and friends enhanced the excitement for all of the graduates. For LaToya Barnes, MSW 21, who received a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Maryland School of Social Work (UMSSW), it was especially meaningful to be surrounded by loved ones when she received her degree from UMSSW Dean Judy L. Postmus, PhD, ACSW.

Ive been through a whole lot this year, she said. I lost my mom, but thanks to all the support the school provided me, I really was able to make it through. Im so happy to be out here celebrating in person with people I love and who supported me when I needed them most. It feels great. I feel very loved, and I couldnt ask for better people to celebrate with.

Whether they were receiving their MD, JD, PhD, DDS, or any other professional degree, everyone could feel the electricity in the air as the Class of 2021 turned their tassels to the left side of their mortarboards. After a long road of papers, projects, practicums, and a pandemic, the celebration was well-deserved.
| By Bill Seiler

Two patients who were near death after COVID-19 destroyed their lungs survived and are thriving because of state-of-the-art care and double-lung transplants by University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) surgeons at the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC).

John Micklus, 62, of La Plata, Md., had healthy lungs before the coronavirus disease struck, but soon doctors at one hospital said nothing could help him and told him it was time to get his affairs in order. Another Maryland man, Anthony (who asked not to reveal his last name), had an underlying lung condition, but COVID-19 sparked an overwhelming struggle to breathe and he didnt think he would survive.

(clockwise from top left) Daniel G. Maluf, Robert M. Reed, Alexander S. Krupnick, Aldo T. Iacono, Katya Prakash-Haft, E. Albert Reece

The COVID-19 pandemic, with more than 32 million cases and more than 580,000 deaths in the United States so far, prompted some hospitals to pause organ transplantation as specialists scrambled to learn more about the pre- and post-transplant effects of COVID-19. UMMC has continued to perform organ transplantation throughout the pandemic, carefully balancing the care of hospitalized COVID-19 patients and the needs of patients awaiting transplant. Several UMMC patients who had recovered from COVID-19 received kidney or liver transplants, but their need for transplantation was unrelated to the coronavirus.

The learning curve for lung transplantation in COVID-19 patients has been particularly challenging because the infection is centered in the lungs, said transplant surgeon Daniel G. Maluf, MD, professor of surgery at UMSOM and director of the Program in Transplantation, which is a joint program between UMSOM and UMMC. Add to that, we need to suppress the bodys immune system to help an organ survive after transplant and reduce the chance of rejection. Immunosuppression also turns down the bodys ability to fight infections. What happens if the coronavirus disease attacks the transplanted lungs, which are already quite fragile?

'A Different Ballgame'

Despite his underlying lung condition, Anthony was able to move around and exercise with little or no supplemental oxygen before getting infected with COVID-19. After COVID, it was a different ballgame, he said. He required higher and higher levels of oxygen, but it became clear that he couldnt survive on a ventilator. He was placed on a transplant waitlist, and, to buy time, his care team put him on ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation), which works like the heart and lungs to remove carbon dioxide and return oxygen-filled blood back to the tissues. Then, on Feb. 6, Anthony became the first COVID-19-related lung transplantation patient at UMMC.

COVID-19 also was a different ballgame for the UMMC lung transplant team, which routinely performs 25 to 30 lung transplants each year. Unique to COVID is the rapid ebb and flow of symptoms. Within a matter of months, the two men were sick with COVID-19, then seemingly recovered from their initial infection only to get sick again, the second round producing significant lung deterioration. This contrasts with other lung conditions that may lead to transplant, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or pulmonary fibrosis (scarring of the lungs), which typically worsen gradually over many years.

In addition, lung transplant timing is a function of COVID-19 risk. You cannot perform the transplant too early, because you have to be sure the patient is cleared of the COVID virus. But you cannot do it too late, because at that point, patients may be so weak they cannot survive the operation and meaningfully participate in rehabilitation, said Robert M. Reed, MD, professor of medicine, UMSOM, and associate medical director of the Lung Transplant Program at UMMC.

The ebb and flow for John Micklus began with flulike symptoms around Christmas 2020. A test result on New Years Eve showed he was COVID-19-positive. By early January, he was admitted to a local hospital not affiliated with the University of Maryland Medical System for 10 days. He felt better at first after discharge, but within a week he was back in the same hospital, with severe shortness of breath. After another seven to 10 days, doctors said they could do nothing more for him. His wife desperately called several physicians and eventually learned that UMMC had recently completed Anthonys transplant. After a series of tests at UMMC, Micklus was listed for a transplant.

I was lucky enough to be a match for a lung donor that the doctors felt was suitable for me within a few days, said Micklus, who was discharged from UMMC on March 30.

The two cases provided an important COVID-19 insight for the transplant team, said Reed. Despite failing lungs, the rest of their bodies were sufficiently intact to move forward with transplant and expect a good result. The key message: This option of lung transplant is definitely not for every patient with COVID. Its for the patients who are still strong otherwise but have lungs that have been devastated by COVID.

One thing is clear, according to Alexander S. Krupnick, MD, professor of surgery, UMSOM, and vice chief, thoracic surgery and director, Lung Transplant Program, UMMC. Hospitalized COVID-19 patients should be seen early by lung specialists. When a COVID patient is referred to us, we assess the lungs, and if we think the lungs will recover, well explore a number of treatment options. Or, if we think the lungs will not recover, our treatment will include steps to get the patient ready for transplant. Many patients will be able to leave us with their own lungs. By no means is transplant the preferred option.

Infectious Disease Strategies

As pulmonologists, surgeons, and intensive care physicians weighed whether both men could withstand the stresses of lung transplantation, UMMC infectious disease specialists focused on balancing the interval between the initial bout with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, and a virus-free status that could optimize the benefits of transplant.

Among the questions: Is there a chance the patients may still actually have some viral persistence? Are they truly fully recovered and is it safe to proceed? said Kapil K. Saharia, MD, MPH, assistant professor of medicine at UMSOM, and chief, Solid Organ Transplant Infectious Diseases Service at UMMC. If there is any viral persistence, the concern would be that the new lungs could become infected. Youd be right back where you were before.

Performing lung transplants in those recovering from COVID-19 has the added complication of the rejection-infection balancing act that is key to the survival of transplanted lungs.

Lung transplantation holds the promise of extending the lives of people with debilitating lung disease, but chronic rejection, with its resulting decline in function, can wipe out that hope. Patients are often as sick as they were before the transplant, said Aldo T. Iacono, MD, the Hamish S. and Christine C. Osborne Distinguished Professor in Advanced Pulmonary Care at UMSOM and medical director, Lung Transplant Program, UMMC.

Katya Prakash-Haft, MD, assistant professor of medicine at UMSOM and an infectious disease specialist at UMMC, said the immediate concern for these two patients was that a dampened immune system could open the door to COVID replication. The solution? Mild immunotherapy that protects key virus-destroying immune cells. For Anthony, for example, we did not give him a high level of induction for transplant. We gave him just steroid induction instead of anything that would be T cell-depleting, because we know that T cells are very important for fighting the virus.

COVID-19 has presented new challenges across the field of medicine, said UMSOM Dean E. Albert Reece, MD, PhD, MBA, University of Maryland, Baltimore executive vice president for medical affairs and the John Z. and Akiko K. Bowers Distinguished Professor. The thoughtful deliberations that led to lung transplants for these two patients illustrate the value of a multidisciplinary approach as we rise to meet the individual care needs of our patients in the COVID era.

For more than 50 years, UMMCs transplant team has provided patients with world-class surgical and medical expertise, performing more than 400 transplant surgeries each year.
| By Mary Therese Phelan

Smiles. Applause. Photos reflecting on the past year. All of these were part and parcel of a traditional commencement ceremony for the University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON) held during quite a nontraditional time.

Faculty of the University of Maryland School of Nursing celebrate this year's graduating class during a virtual ceremony.

Although each graduation ceremony is momentous, this is now the third virtual conferral of degrees in our 132-year history, said Jane M. Kirschling, PhD, RN, FAAN, the Bill and Joanne Conway Dean of the University of Maryland School of Nursing, as she welcomed graduates and their families to a May 20 virtual ceremony. I am certain that we will always remember how we gathered to recognize the many accomplishments and achievements of our spring 2021 graduates.

It goes without saying that nursing, at its very core, is a profession marked by a deep dedication and commitment to ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of our patients and our communities. However, the events of the past 14 months, our national and global struggle to combat COVID-19, give additional meaning to this dedication.

The past year, Kirschling said, is a reminder that nursing does not have the opportunity to pick and choose its moments of service. But rather, it must always be on the ready to respond.

Despite the challenges of a global pandemic, 447 nursing degrees and certificates were conferred, including 212 bachelors degrees, 92 masters degrees, 12 certificates, and 131 Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees.

Kirschling thanked those who have worked on the front lines of the pandemic, in particular the 442 students who chose the early-exit option in 2020 and 2021 and those students who have volunteered to serve in other capacities.

And to all of our students, you have successfully persevered during a difficult time, completed your studies, and earned your degree  all while balancing multiple demands and stressors. You have my deepest respect and that of all of us for your efforts and your hard work, she said.

During the ceremony, the Deans Medal for Distinguished Service was virtually presented to former Maryland Sen. Shirley Nathan-Pulliam, MAS, BSN 80, an UMSON Visionary Pioneer, for her many contributions to UMSON, to nurses throughout Maryland, and to the countless patients, families, and communities that we all serve, Kirschling said.

The award, crafted by University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) President Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS, a skilled metalsmith, recognizes individuals external to UMSON who have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to advancing the school and its mission.

Nathan-Pulliam served in the Maryland General Assembly for 24 years before retiring in late 2019. She dedicated her career to ensuring that all Marylanders have access to health care. During her first year in office, she created a $2.6 million breast cancer diagnosis and treatment program for low-income women. She championed legislation in the areas of children, youth and families, health care insurance and Medicaid, mental health, health care workforce diversity, and underserved populations and health inequities.

Before her retirement, one of Nathan-Pulliams final legislative achievements was the creation of the Social Determinants of Health Task Force of Baltimore City, a cutting-edge policy intervention and the first such legislatively mandated task force in the country.

She has never lost sight of her calling as a nurse, Kirschling said. And she has used her experience to address issues of access and quality of care and to advocate for the need to address health care disparity.

Jarrell also conferred Honorary Doctor of Public Service degrees to William Bill Conway, MBA, and his wife, Joanne Conway. In 2010, Bill Conway began focusing on the importance of job creation. After soliciting ideas about how to support efforts in the region, he concluded there was a need to provide the education required for individuals to qualify for existing, well-paying jobs through scholarships and financial assistance. Upon the urging of Joanne Conway, they chose as part of their efforts to significantly support nursing education.

This was in response to the wonderful care that their parents received in the final year of life, and in light of the significant shortage of nurses in the region, Kirschling said.

Through their Bedford Falls Foundation, the couple has contributed nearly $30 million toward transforming nursing education and, by fall 2027, will have funded more than 830 Conway Scholarships for UMSON students.

They have provided access to nursing education for countless students and ensured the excellence and diversity of the next generation of nursing, Kirschling said. Their generosity has enabled us to increase opportunities for individuals to enter the nursing profession, for practicing nurses to earn their baccalaureate degrees, and for nurses to pursue graduate education.

On a daily basis, the Conways are adding to the cohort of dedicated nurses who are educated and equipped to deliver compassionate and competent care to patients and their families and through this, to improve the health and well-being of all of our communities.

Jarrell provided congratulatory remarks to the graduates in a prerecorded video.

I had hoped that we could be together in person, but Im at least glad that we came together virtually while staying safe and hopefully healthy, he said. I know the end of your time at UMB has come to a close in a way that none of us could have predicted or envisioned. Its tough enough to get through professional school during ordinary times. I am certain that it took an extra dose of flexibility and adaptability under these conditions to stay your course and complete your studies. Your resiliency amidst this global pandemic is commendable. Thank you for your great accomplishment.

Navigating nursing school during a global pandemic is not for the faint of heart, said Henry Inegbenosun, DNP 21, BSN 15, who delivered the student remarks on behalf of the Class of 2021.

Despite all the challenges we faced in our personal lives dealing with COVID-19, the Class of 2021 showed time and again that we could do anything we put our minds to, he said. Every crisis has its heroes. Firefighters race into burning buildings. Soldiers and police officers place themselves in the line of fire. During times of fear and uncertainty, the world called, and nursing answered.

Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Inegbenosun said he often faced difficult choices during his education.

Throughout my program, I had to consider various life decisions, contemplating if I should pay for rent, put food on the table, or pay for school, he said. But with a passion for knowledge and love of wisdom, my nursing education won every time, and I overcame the social determinants most have only considered in theory.

We are entry-level and advanced practice. We are military and public health. We are anesthesia and informatics. We are pediatrics and geriatrics. We are acute care and primary care. And, indeed, we are the University of Maryland School of Nursing Graduating Class of 2021, equipped to change the world, one patient at a time.

The ceremony closed with a virtual recitation of the Professional Nursing Pledge by graduates, nurses on the faculty, and nurses in the viewing audience.

Additional awards were presented. For a complete list and other commencement highlights, view the program.
05/20/2021

Boston Globe

By Cindy Cantrell

When David Nguyen arrived to celebrate his commencement from UMass Lowell on May 13, the graduation ritual looked a little different.





The 24-year-old Everett resident waited briefly in line before scanning a QR code, which prompted his name to be announced. He then picked up a diploma cover, strode across the stage, and posed for a photo, socially distanced from Chancellor Jacqueline Moloney and Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences Dean Shortie McKinney.





Yet the fact that Nguyen concluded his college career during the most unusual of times is fitting. After all, he arrived at this point on a road significantly less traveled.





Nguyen, bilingual in English and Vietnamese, is a first-generation college student who is used to overcoming barriers associated with being a person of color. He is also breaking down gender walls in the historically female-dominated field of nursing. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 12 percent of registered nurses are men, up from 2.7 percent in 1970.





But the reason he was awarded a UMass Lowell Chancellors Medal for Student Service extends beyond the classroom. According to Mazen El Ghaziri, associate chair and assistant professor of nursing in the Zuckerberg College, the honor is well deserved.





David always goes the extra miles  not mile, but miles  in contributing to the school and UMass Lowell community, El Ghaziri said. The core of the nursing profession is caring grounded in science, from the first hello at a patients door to more complicated nursing skills delivered while respecting a client holistically. David is not only a successful student, but his concern for those who are vulnerable is palpable. Hell do great things.





In fact, Nguyen developed an interest in health care through personal experience. At age 5, he was evaluated at multiple medical facilities until Boston Childrens Hospital successfully diagnosed and treated him for a complicated medical disorder that required lengthy hospitalization and regular follow-ups. The manner in which the nursing staff extended their compassionate care to his parents, who didnt speak English, during such a frightening time, made an impression on them all.





To this day, Nguyen said, my mom talks about how she didnt know where to go for food, and the staff brought her some.





The familys second medical crisis occurred seven years later, when 12-year-old Nguyen acted as an advocate and translator for his extended family while his grandmother was treated for cancer at Massachusetts General Hospital.





I saw how hard the nurses worked to advocate for her to the doctors, and to build relationships with me and my grandmother, and I knew that nursing was my calling, said Nguyen, noting how he felt like a respected member of the health care team, with complex terms broken down so he could understand and accurately explain them to his stressed family members. I wanted to be a nurse and make a difference in the lives of other patients and families.





Nguyen honed his leadership skills as class president at Everett High School, advocating for reducing student fees for the yearbook, prom, and other senior activities to ensure that everyone who wished to participate could do so. As a member of Allied Health Academy, Nguyen raised awareness of flu clinics and accompanied some Asian-American residents to help raise participation rates.





After graduating in 2016, Nguyen applied to 14 colleges and universities. He said he chose to attend UMass Lowell because of the tutoring and financial resources the university provides for its students, and also because the citys vibrant Asian-American community feels like a safe haven.





With its diversity, and the way they welcomed me, I felt like I could be my true self, he said, adding that food reminding him of home is just a short walk away. Professors are always there for their students as well. If there is a problem or issue, everyone communicates really well with one another.





Nguyen excelled academically in high school, but his grades faltered for the first two years of college. His struggles are common to many college students: adapting to challenging coursework, learning different study habits, and balancing academics with social and family life  all without being under the watchful eye of his parents and teachers for the first time.





The turning point, quite simply, came from within.





You grow from your failures, Nguyen said. Nursing school taught me resilience and perseverance to keep pushing forward. After all my life experiences  from nearly dying as a little kid, and then spending time with my grandmother in the hospital  I couldnt see myself as anything but a nurse and advocating for people who needed access to health care.





Thats when I decided Id do more for the university, he added, and advocate for myself and my peers.





Nguyen said he immediately found support and direction within his home away from home in the Health & Social Sciences House. The residence hall fosters a living and learning environment by offering monthly exam reviews, social activities, career exploration, networking opportunities, and dedicated faculty and staff to guide students as they navigate college and prepare for careers in health education, biomedical and nutritional science, public health, physical therapy and kinesiology, nursing, criminal justice, political science, psychology, sociology, economics, journalism, and history.





You have to find your resources and the right friends to guide you through this process, and give you a sense of hope that you can do it, Nguyen said. Being in the H.E.A.L.L. [Health Education Academic Living & Learning] Community helped push me to academically to do better.





To give back, Nguyen has been a resident adviser since August 2017. In addition to assisting undergraduates with mental health concerns and roommate conflicts while upholding university policies, he works with professors to integrate College of Health Sciences-specific programming into a dozen events each semester in order to foster a more cohesive community within the residence hall.





To reinforce students learning outside the classroom, Nguyen has been a peer tutor since September 2018 for the universitys Centers for Learning, Advising, and Student Success. He is also a student representative for the Class of 2021 nursing program, as well as vice president of Men in Nursing, a UMass Lowell student club and a chapter of the American Association for Men in Nursing.





I made a vow to myself to help other students succeed, and send them the message that asking for help is a sign of resiliency and strength, he said.





Over the past year and a half, Nguyen has amassed clinical experience in gerontology, mental health, maternity, pediatrics, acute care, and intensive care. In May 2019, he received job offers from Boston Medical Center and Boston Childrens Hospital  and when he couldnt decide between them, he accepted both because I thought I could do it.





At Boston Childrens Hospital, Nguyen was a patient experience representative before transitioning in July 2020 into his current role as a clinical assistant in the cardiac intensive care unit. At Boston Medical Center, he is a certified nursing assistant in the intermediate care medical step-down unit, which has cared for patients recovering from COVID-19 since March 2020.





While he enjoys working with all patient populations, Nguyen ultimately wants to become a nurse practitioner in an acute care setting, while enhancing diversity, understanding, compassion, and access to care.





Im committed to delivering the best care and help patients heal, he said, while always treating them as if theyre my own family members.
05/27/2021

By Edwin L. Aguirre

A recent discovery by a research team that includes Kennedy College of Sciences Prof. Nelson Eby is shedding light on the debris created by an atomic blast, and it could set the stage for advances in materials research, including potential applications in energy, health care and nuclear forensics.





The team, which also included researchers from the University of Florence in Italy, the California Institute of Technology, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Princeton University and the University of Maryland, discovered a new quasicrystal in a trinitite sample it investigated.





Trinitite, which is also known as atomic rock, is a glassy material that was first produced by the extreme heat and pressure of an atomic explosion during World War II, says Eby, who is with the Department of Environmental, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences





Quasicrystals are strange crystalline forms that do not follow the normal laws of crystal symmetry, he explains. Quasicrystals were first identified in the early 1980s in an aluminum-manganese alloy. Since then, laboratory experiments have produced a variety of quasicrystal structures.





This close-up view taken by Prof. Luca Bindi of the University of Florence, Italy, shows the red trinitite containing the newly discovered quasicrystal. The sample was recovered by a meteorite researcher north of the Trinity test site, a few months after the blast. Naturally occurring quasicrystals have been found in meteorites and meteorite impact structures, Eby says. And most recently, in the debris associated with an atomic detonation, which is the focus of our research. Naturally occurring quasicrystals have been found in meteorites and meteorite impact structures, Eby says. And most recently, in the debris associated with an atomic detonation, which is the focus of our research.





A greater understanding of the conditions under which various types of quasicrystals form can be used to design quasicrystals for specific purposes, he says.





Quasicrystals are not currently used in industrial applications, but some suggested uses include heat insulation, new materials that convert heat to electricity, bone repair and prosthesis applications, he says.





The teams findings were presented in a research paper titled, Accidental Synthesis of a Previously Unknown Quasicrystal in the First Atomic Bomb Test, which was published in May in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences





According to Eby, the study of trinitite is important since it serves as a vital tool in nuclear forensic investigations.





Because of concerns about the proliferation and possible use of atomic weapons by rogue nations and terrorist groups, over the past decade forensic studies of radioactive elements contained in trinitite have been conducted by a number of academic and federal laboratories and institutions, including UMass Lowell, he says.





For example, materials recovered from a detonated atomic device would most likely contain remnants of the bomb, and knowing the relationship between glass chemistry and radioactive elements in the materials would be useful in characterizing the device and ultimately identifying the perpetrators.





Code Name: Trinity





On July 16, 1945, the United States military detonated historys first atomic bomb, a plutonium device dubbed Gadget, at a remote site in southern New Mexico. The mission, which was part of the top-secret Manhattan Project, was to test this prototype of a new breed of weapons that were to be used against Japan to force its surrender in World War II.





Photo by U.S. Department of Energy The plutonium device, nicknamed Gadget, can be seen here being assembled atop a 100-foot steel tower. The test, code-named Trinity, went off as planned, with the device detonating and producing a blast equivalent to 21,000 tons of high explosives (TNT). Heat from the resulting fireball caused the 100-foot steel tower holding Gadget to vaporize instantly. The surrounding desert sand was also melted into a layer of green, glassy material, which was later called trinitite in honor of the tests name. The test, code-named Trinity, went off as planned, with the device detonating and producing a blast equivalent to 21,000 tons of high explosives (TNT). Heat from the resulting fireball caused the 100-foot steel tower holding Gadget to vaporize instantly. The surrounding desert sand was also melted into a layer of green, glassy material, which was later called trinitite in honor of the tests name.





Much of the material and debris was sucked into the fireballs rising mushroom cloud of hot gases. As this material was transported downwind by the gas cloud, molten droplets of glass rained down onto the ground over a wide area.





Contained within the glass are melted bits of the device and its support structures and various radionuclides formed during the blast, says Eby.





After three quarters of a century, trinitite is still slightly radioactive but is relatively safe to handle, he notes.





Trinitite-like materials were also found in other U.S. atomic tests that followed after the war.





Blood-red Trinitite





The majority of trinitite is pale green in color, but the material that the team investigated has a rare, blood-red color due to copper that melted with the desert sand. The copper came from miles of data transmission lines that connected Gadget and the tower to recording instruments.





The material, which was provided by team member William Kolb, is among the samples collected in late 1945 by a meteorite researcher north of the blast site. In it, the scientists discovered a new quasicrystal shaped in an icosahedron (a solid, 3D structure with 20 faces) and composed of silicon, copper, calcium and iron.





Photo by Robb Hermes Prof. Nelson Eby poses next to the stone monument marking the Trinity test sites ground zero, the precise spot where the atomic blast occurred nearly 76 years ago. This red trinitite quasicrystal represents the oldest such material made by humans that is currently known, and whose origin is well documented from historical records of the Trinity test, according to Italian geologist and professor Luca Bindi, who is the papers lead author. Bindi conducted studies on the sample using a scanning electron microscope and electron microprobe, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction techniques. This red trinitite quasicrystal represents the oldest such material made by humans that is currently known, and whose origin is well documented from historical records of the Trinity test, according to Italian geologist and professor Luca Bindi, who is the papers lead author. Bindi conducted studies on the sample using a scanning electron microscope and electron microprobe, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction techniques.





The tremendous pressure and temperature generated by an atomic detonation can lead to new forms of quasicrystals, such as the one we identified and described in our paper, that cannot be produced in a laboratory, says Eby.





The Expanding Field of Nuclear Forensics





At UMass Lowell, my student researchers and I have been studying the complex chemistry of the trinitite glasses and the distribution of radioactive elements throughout the glasses, Eby says. Our research has shown that certain glass chemistries are more likely to contain radioactive material, which could reflect the nature of the atomic blast. And this data is very helpful in nuclear forensics.





Eby says in any ground-level atomic explosion, glassy materials similar to trinitite will be formed.





We can therefore use the chemical signatures and radioactivity of these glasses to identify the type of atomic device that was detonated and to estimate its yield, or explosive power, he says. Also, this knowledge is important for assessing the potential release of radioactive materials into the environment.





Such a forensic technique is useful, especially in the face of growing terrorist threats from so-called suitcase bombs.





Fortunately, since the end of World War II, an atomic device has not been used against civilian or military targets. However, should this happen  hopefully never  nuclear forensics ultimately could help us identify the bomb and the bomb makers, says Eby.
Displaced Afghan schoolgirls play during a break at Kahdistan Secondary School in Injil district of Herat province, Afghanistan, November 2020.  UNHCR/Aref Karimi

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is calling for greater support from the international community for Afghanistans people, including those displaced within its borders and refugees seeking safety outside the country.

The appeal comes at the end of a four-day visit by UNHCRs Assistant High Commissioner for Operations, Raouf Mazou, who was on his first trip to the country.

Afghanistan is at a critical and historical juncture, said Mazou. With ongoing efforts to find peace, relief and development activities need to be scaled up simultaneously as well.

He raised concerns about the continued violence which has been causing new displacement. Over 100,000 Afghans have been internally displaced due to conflict so far in 2021.

Mazou spoke with refugee returnees in Mazar Sharif, in northern Afghanistan, who were learning carpet weaving skills. In Kabul provinces Qarabagh district, he inaugurated the Akakhail Boys and Girls High School. Both are part of UNHCR initiatives, working with the Afghan government, to help refugee returnees better reintegrate.

Support in health, education and livelihood benefiting host communities, internally displaced and refugee returnees are all the key component of the peace process.

During his visit to Kabul, he met with the First Vice-President Amurallah Saleh, Minister of Refugees and Repatriation, Noor-e-Rahman Akhlaqi and the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mirwais Nab, and assured them of UNHCRs continued support.

Afghanistan today has a population of nearly 35 million people, the majority of them young, facing insecurity and economic challenges. Millions also remain displaced within the country and outside as refugees, generously hosted by countries such as Iran and Pakistan despite the devasting impact of COVID-19 pandemic.

UNHCR has assisted over 100,000 internally displaced Afghans in the last 6 months through the distribution of hygiene kits, emergency shelter kits, family tents, sanitary kits and other non-food items. Cash assistance has also been provided to vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly, children and women at risk, people with disabilities, and those with serious medical conditions.

While the international community has made immense contributions during the last 20 years, aid and funding for Afghanistan have been on the decline, with  humanitarian assistance facing the largest funding shortfalls. UNHCRs financial appeal of US$ 123.5 million for 2021 is only 24 per cent funded.
When 68-year-old famer Dahi finally returned to his village after spending more than three years in a camp south of Mosul for Iraqis who fled ISIS militants, his homecoming was far from the joyous occasion he had long imagined.

At the end of last year, the authorities announced the closure of Salamiyah camp, giving Dahis family and others just days to pack their things and return to Risala village near Iraqs northwestern border with Syria. On arrival they found widespread destruction to homes and infrastructure including the small local school.

We found it in ruins. It was abandoned, left for three or four years, Dahi said. The houses here are built from mud, if you leave a mud house without maintenance for a period of time it will collapse. We saw several houses that had collapsed.

"We need help."

The immediate challenge facing the villagers was how to provide for themselves, being unable to grow crops due to a lack of agricultural materials and equipment and without jobs or alternative sources of income. Even securing water was a major challenge, having to rely on costly deliveries by truck that were often impossible when the only dirt road into the village became a quagmire following winter storms.

The precariousness of their situation was tragically revealed when a next-door neighbours three-month-old daughter became feverish, and their attempts to reach the nearest town with a hospital 12 kilometres away failed after their vehicle became stuck attempting to navigate the swamp-like road.

My neighbour Abdulhadi, his infant daughter fell sick and because he couldnt reach a hospital due to the road, she died, Dahi explained.

More than 6 million Iraqis were forced to flee their homes when ISIS militants took control of large swathes of territory in 2014. Some 4.8 million people have since returned home, but more than 1.2 million remain internally displaced.

A primary school in Risala village, in Iraq's Nineveh Governorate, which has been rehabilitated with support from UNHCR.  UNHCR/Firas Al-Khateeb

Ruined buildings in Risala village, northern Iraq, which was heavily damaged during battles to liberate the area from ISIS in 2016.  UNHCR/Rasheed Hussein Rasheed

A young girl carries a bunch of coriander outside her damaged home in a village near Mosul.  UNHCR/Firas Al-Khateeb

A resident sits outside his former home in a village near Mosul, which was completely destroyed during fighting to retake the area from ISIS.  UNHCR/Firas Al-Khateeb

Of those still displaced inside Iraq, some 250,000 were living in camps, where conditions are basic but essential services such as shelter, schools and health care were provided by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and its partners.

In October 2020, the Iraqi government announced the sudden closure of 13 camps, affecting more than 34,000 residents, with more camps closing in the following months. While voluntary return to their area of origin is the preferred outcome for most, many of those affected by the decision to close camps must now contend with destroyed properties and infrastructure, insecurity and a lack of jobs.

UNHCR has raised its concerns with the government, stressing that some of the closures were conducted without adequate notice and consultation with camp residents.

Following a recent assessment, UNHCR is now working to pave the road linking Risala village to the nearest town and will also rehabilitate the local school and teachers guesthouse.

But the future remains uncertain for Dahi and the 300 other families living in Risala, with drought now threatening their ability to feed themselves in the coming months.

Our living conditions are very difficult. Our source of income is farming and this year due to drought we have no crops, Dahi said. We need help. No one can live on thin air alone.

Other Iraqis affected by the camp closures face a similar struggle. In Tabouqa village southwest of Mosul, 37 families arrived home at the end of last year following the closure of Hamam al Alil camp, only to find a jumble of ruined buildings and a village devoid of even the most basic services.

One resident, 48-year-old Abdelwahed, described the situation facing him and his young family as desperate.

My children are still young and should be in school, but they are not, because we have no school in the village, he said. If someone needs to see a doctor, we have to drive for hours through muddy roads to reach a hospital. In the camp we used to receive kerosene, we had a school and healthcare.

"We don't know how to start again."

The situation has left Abdelwahed and other villagers yearning for an alternative that previously would have seemed unthinkable.

We all are on the same sinking ship. No one wants to stay in our damaged village, he said. I wish we could go back to the misery of the camp. At least it was better than living here, he said.

We dont know how to start again, Abdulwahed continued. We have spent all the money we had. We need financial support to buy agricultural material and machinery  so that we can start rely on ourselves to rebuild our lives, our farms and village again.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 20:11:13|Editor: huaxia

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TAIPEI, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Taiwan on Thursday reported 401 new local COVID-19 infections and 266 backlogged local cases, including 13 deaths, according to the local disease monitoring agency.

It is the 13th consecutive day that new local infections have exceeded 100 on the island.

Of the new local infections, 190 were male and 211 were female, and their onset of symptoms ranged from April 26 to May 26.

Among the 266 backlogged cases, 140 were male and 126 were female, the agency said.

A total of 13 deaths from COVID-19 were reported on Thursday, the highest daily toll on the island since the outbreak of the pandemic.

Amid the surge in local infections, hospitals in Taiwan are struggling to cope with the influx of COVID-19 patients. Some have pled for help as they are being inundated with patients, exceeding the capacity of their intensive care units.

Warning that the local health care system is on the brink of collapse, the labor union of Taipei-based hospitals said medical resources are maxed out in the city's hospitals.

In addition to the local cases, Taiwan also reported four new imported COVID-19 cases from India and the Philippines.

The total number of confirmed cases on the island since the epidemic began has risen to 6,761, including 5,584 local cases and 59 deaths, the agency said. Enditem
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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 20:27:23|Editor: huaxia

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HONG KONG, May 27 (Xinhua) -- The value of Hong Kong's total goods exports increased to 384.9 billion HK dollars (49.59 billion U.S. dollars) in April, up 24.4 percent from the same month last year, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government said on Thursday.

The value of imports of goods increased by 25.2 percent year-on-year to 416.7 billion HK dollars in April. A trade deficit of 31.8 billion HK dollars, or 7.6 percent of the value of imports, was recorded for the month, according to the Census and Statistics Department of the HKSAR government.

The value of total merchandise trade for the first four months of this year was way higher than the previous high recorded in the same period in 2018, reflecting vibrant trading activities amid a sharp rebound in external demand, a spokesman for the HKSAR government said.

Looking ahead, the sustained revival of the global economy should continue to render support to Hong Kong's export performance in the near term, the spokesman said.

However, the evolving pandemic situation and other risk factors such as China-U.S. relations and geopolitical tensions still warrant attention, the spokesman added. (1 U.S. dollar equals 7.76 HK dollars) Enditem
KINGSTON  Emily McLellan is excited about starting freshman year at the University of New Hampshire in the fall, but shes been worried that her aging 1996 Toyota Corolla might not be able to handle the regular commute.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 20:28:36|Editor: huaxia

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WUHAN, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Two cities in central China's Hubei Province are seeking to establish sister-city ties with Uruguayan counterparts, according to the Hubei provincial foreign affairs office Thursday.

Yichang and the provincial capital Wuhan submitted letters of intent to establish friendly relations with Rivera and Salto respectively Wednesday during the province's Uruguay Week that started in Wuhan on May 24.

Building friendly relations will help Hubei better understand South America and carry out more business activities between cities in the future, said Fernando Lugris, the Uruguayan ambassador to China during the festivities.

The Uruguay Week included a film festival, a food festival, and a series of commercial, educational and cultural exchange events, according to the ambassador.

This year marks the 33rd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Uruguay. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 20:34:30|Editor: huaxia

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Iran's Judiciary Chief Ebrahim Raisi arrives to register his candidacy for presidential race at the Interior Ministry in Tehran, Iran, May 15, 2021. (Photo by Ahmad Halabisaz/Xinhua)

- Following an eight-day vetting process, Iran's Constitutional Council, which supervises elections, selected seven out of 592 hopefuls, giving them the green light to begin campaigns for the June 18 presidential election voting day.



- "Although some of the contenders have stronger professional backgrounds, we cannot really tell who holds a better chance to win the top executive post, before all candidates lay out their plans," Press TV said.

TEHRAN, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Iran's presidential election campaign has officially gotten underway after the country's Interior Ministry announced the names of the qualified candidates for the country's 13th presidential race on Tuesday.





SEVEN CANDIDATES

Following an eight-day vetting process, Iran's Constitutional Council, which supervises elections, selected seven out of 592 hopefuls, giving them the green light to begin campaigns for the June 18 presidential election voting day.

The list comprises Judiciary Chief Ebrahim Raisi, former nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili, Secretary of Iran's Expediency Council Mohsen Rezaei, lawmaker Alireza Zakani, Deputy Parliament Speaker Amir Hossein Ghazizadeh Hashemi, Governor of the Central Bank of Iran Abdolnaser Hemmati and former Vice President Mohsen Mehralizadeh.

Some of the heavyweights failed to make their way to the final list, including First Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri and former parliament speaker Ali Larijani.

Iran's former chief nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili (R) registers his candidacy for presidential race at the Interior Ministry in Tehran, Iran, May 15, 2021. (Photo by Ahmad Halabisaz/Xinhua)

Of the candidates, Raisi, Jalili, Mehralizadeh and Rezaei have run for president in previous elections.

Raisi, who has been Iran's judiciary chief since 2019, has said he would be contesting the race "independently." He was a candidate in the 2017 election, where he lost to incumbent President Hassan Rouhani.

A number of the prominent hopefuls pulled out in Raisi's favor prior to the announcement of the final list, such as Rostam Qassemi and Hossein Dehqan, both former commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.





MIXED REACTIONS

The list, which was leaked on Monday, has triggered different reactions among the disqualified hopefuls and the qualified candidates.

Commenting on the Constitutional Council's list in an address to a Wednesday cabinet meeting, Rouhani said he had written a letter to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Tuesday asking for his assistance regarding the election, the official IRNA news agency reported.

Rouhani said people's discernment is the main criterion, meaning that the ground must be fully prepared for them to come to vote and help the election come to fruition.

In a statement reported by IRNA, Jahangiri said the liabilities of his disqualification and its political and social implications lie with the Constitutional Council.

Iran's First Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri (C) arrives at a press conference after registration his candidacy for presidential race at the Interior Ministry in Tehran, Iran, May 15, 2021. (Photo by Ahmad Halabisaz/Xinhua)

Reacting to the list, Raisi posted a video on his Instagram page, saying since being informed about the candidate list on Monday, he has been holding consultations to make the presidential race more competitive, and thus attract a larger turnout.

In response, Siamak Rahpeik, a jurist member and deputy secretary of the Constitutional Council said the disqualification of nominees has nothing to do with their political inclinations.

He explained that the council is only tasked with implementing the rule of law and the body's regulations, and disregards political leanings while making decisions.

During a meeting via video-link with members of the Iranian Parliament on Thursday, Khamenei said the Constitutional Council's work was based on legal procedures, urging Iranians to participate in the election, Iranian news network Press TV reported.





CAMPAIGN SPOTLIGHT

According to the schedule, the presidential election campaign officially starts from the date of announcing the candidate names and will end 24 hours before the election day, which is slated on June 18 this year.

At a campaign meeting on Wednesday with businessmen and members of Iran's commerce, unions and cooperative chambers, Raisi outlined his plans to tackle the economic problems.

"We want a strong Iran and the groundwork is already laid," he was quoted as saying by Press TV.

"Human resources, mines and treasures in the country serve as the basis. What's now needed is efficient, arduous management, which could turn these elements into power and strength," he said.

Also, "we believe in interactions with the entire world in order to solve the (country's) economic issues, (but) the regional countries should be a priority," he added.

In a press conference on Wednesday, Hashemi, another contender, vowed that his future administration, if elected, would neutralize all the anti-Iranian sanctions, Mehr News Agency reported.

He said that the target would be reached by relying on the Iranian nation, the Islamic Republic's allies across the world, and the reinforcement of ties with neighboring countries.

"Although some of the contenders have stronger professional backgrounds, we cannot really tell who holds a better chance to win the top executive post, before all candidates lay out their plans," Press TV said. 
We may never know if a Manchester police officers act of kindness to a teen would-be shoplifter will make a difference in the teens life. But it certainly brightened the day of a lot of Manchester residents and others who read our story or saw the TV newscast about Officer George Morales.
In the history of the world there have been some very bad ideas: Screen doors on submarines. New Coke. Eliminating nearly 22 child protective social worker positions at the NH Division for Children, Youth and Families. While the first idea is a joke and the second idea a marketing failure, t
Muhammad Aurangzeb, President & CEO - HBL (Left) and Qasif Shahid, CEO and Co-Founder (seated on Right) signing the agreement between the two organizations. Umer Munawer, COO and Co-Founder and Monis Rahman, Chairman and Co-Founder (standing Left to Right) were also present at the occasion.

Karachi (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th April, 2021) HBL becomes the first bank in Pakistan to invest in a digital fintech startup with its Rs. 176 Million (USD 1.15 Million) participation in the last tranche of Finjas Rs. 1.56 billion (USD10.15 Million) Series A1 round. HBL joins an impressive list of leading global fintech funds that have invested in Finja including BeeNext, Vostok Emerging Finance, Quona Capital, and ICU Ventures. All investors from previous rounds topped up their investment in Finjas Series A1 round.

For HBL, an investment in Finja serves two of the banks strategic priorities, namely, making investments into Digital Financial Inclusion and Development Finance companies, especially ones making an impact in agriculture and SMEs as these are the backbone of the economy, and proactively reinventing HBL to become a technology company with a banking license.

Since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic in April last year, Finja has scaled its digital lending portfolio by 550% disbursing over 50,000 digital loans to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Despite being the backbone of the economy, small businesses in Pakistan have traditionally not been able to obtain credit to grow.

We are elated to have HBL participate in this funding round.

Our ground-breaking success in digitally scoring undocumented small businesses has resulted in a 64% month-on-month portfolio growth for us since the outbreak of the pandemic earlier this year. Undoubtedly, HBLs financial clout, massive network and progressive leadership will help us elevate the countrys most important segment, the SMEs, said Qasif Shahid, CEO and Co-Founder Finja.

These loans are critical for Pakistans economic growth. Our productive loans result in a 40% increase in SME revenue with less than a 1% default rate, added Monis Rahman, Chairman and Co-Founder Finja.

Muhammad Aurangzeb, President & CEO  HBL, commenting on the occasion said, We are delighted to be investing in FINJA. Pakistans fintech landscape has immense opportunities. At HBL we believe that by making this investment we are not only developing the Startup ecosystem, but it will also pave the way for Pakistan to play a bigger role in the fintech space globally. SME lending is the future and therefore we are investing in Finja which enjoys a first mover advantage over the market in digitally lending to SMEs in this country.
Colombo, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th May, 2021 ) :An international firefighting effort to put out a huge blaze on a container ship off the Sri Lanka coast will likely take days, the country's navy chief said Thursday, amid mounting fears of a major oil leak.

Nine Sri Lankan ships and three Indian vessels have been working with international salvage experts to douse the eight-day old inferno on the Singapore-registered X-Press Pearl.

The vessel was carrying nearly 1,500 containers, including 25 tonnes of nitric acid, when a fire broke out as it waited to enter Colombo port.

It is believed that the fire was sparked by a leak of nitric acid on the 186 metre (610 feet) long ship. Monsoon winds fanned the flames.

But easing winds in the Indian Ocean will make firefighting efforts easier, Sri Lanka navy chief Vice Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenne said, describing the sea and wind conditions as "favourable".

"I hope in another few days we can extinguish this fire completely," he told AFP.

Sri Lanka's Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) has said it fears the vessel could break up and leak oil onto coastal beaches.

"The hull may not be stable for us to tow the ship away from our waters," MEPA chairman Dharshani Lahandapura told AFP.

The vessel, now anchored, is carrying 278 tonnes of bunker oil and 50 tonnes of marine gasoil, she said.

- Avoidable disaster - Lahandapura said the crew knew about a nitric acid leak on May 11 before entering Sri Lankan waters and that the fire could have been avoided if they acted promptly.

The ship's operator, X-Press Feeders of Singapore, confirmed they knew about the acid leak, but said attempts to leave the leaking container in India and Qatar had failed.

It said port authorities in the two countries had rejected requests because they did not have specialist facilities.

Sri Lankan authorities have lodged a formal complaint with police ahead of initiating legal action against the ship's captain.

Lahandapura said a large quantity of oil threatens to leak and pollute the tourist and fishing region of Negombo, 40 kilometres (25 miles) north of the capital.

"Our best option is to clean the beach and we suspect any clearing operation will take a few weeks, if not months," she said.

Sri Lankan soldiers were deployed Thursday to clean Negombo beach as debris from eight containers that fell into the sea after the explosion washed ashore.

Police also arrested eight people who had been scavenging for plastic raw materials and cosmetics that washed up for violating coronavirus lockdown regulations.

In September last year, an oil tanker caught fire off Sri Lanka's east coast after an engine room explosion that killed one crew member.

The fire on the New Diamond tanker took more than a week to put out and left a 40 kilometre (25 mile) long oil spill. Sri Lanka has demanded the owners pay a $17 million clean-up bill.

The 25 crew on the X-Press Pearl were evacuated on Tuesday following the explosion. Two suffered minor injuries, the owners said, and one, an Indian national, has tested positive for Covid-19.

The ship was on its way to Colombo from India's Gujarat state. The vessel is anchored 14 kilometres (7.5 nautical miles) offshore and can be seen from Negombo.
Bamako, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th May, 2021 ) :Mali's interim president and prime minister resigned on Wednesday, a top junta aide said, two days after they were detained and stripped of their powers in what appeared to amount to the country's second coup in nine months.

In New York, the UN Security Council "strongly condemned" the ouster and arrest of President Bah Ndaw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane, and called for a return to civilian government -- but did not discuss punitive measures.

The interim leaders, who had been tasked with steering the return to civilian rule after a coup last August, resigned in the presence of mediators visiting the military base where they were being held, said Baba Cisse, special advisor to junta boss Assimi Goita.

However a member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), African Union and UN mission MINUSMA mediation mission told reporters that the leaders had in fact resigned before they arrived.

The delegation then went to speak to Goita -- who holds the rank of vice president in the transitional government -- again after seeing him late Tuesday.

Cisse said the president, prime minister and other transition leaders arrested on Monday would be released but this would happen "gradually for obvious security reasons". He gave no timeline.

He said earlier that there were moves toward forming a new government in the poor Sahel state.

Their detentions triggered widespread international condemnation and the threat of sanctions.

The Security Council, which held an emergency meeting at the request of former colonial power France and others, called for "the safe, immediate and unconditional release of all the officials detained and urged the defense and security forces elements to return to their barracks without delay".

The council urged a restoration of the civilian-led transition, which envisages a return to elections and constitutional order on an 18-month timeline.

But it did not discuss imposing sanctions and refrained from calling the detentions a coup.

The ECOWAS mediators met with Ndaw and Ouane at the Kati military camp around 15 kilometres (nine miles) from the capital Bamako.

A member of the delegation headed by former Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan had warned that ECOWAS "could quickly announce sanctions" if the crisis is not resolved.

France was also prepared to impose "targeted sanctions", French President Emmanuel Macron said after a European Union summit.

And Washington said it would "consider targeted measures against political and military leaders who impede Mali's civilian-led transition to democratic governance".

It said the United States had suspended assistance for Mali's security forces.

Macron, whose country has committed more than 5,000 troops to Mali's fight against jihadism in the Sahel, condemned the arrest of Ndaw and Ouane as a "coup d'etat in an unacceptable coup d'etat".

On Monday, the United Nations, African Union, ECOWAS, the EU and United States issued a rare joint statement, attacking the detention and demanding the pair be released.

That demand was echoed on Tuesday by Britain and Germany.

A member of Goita's team said that during the talks with the ECOWAS mediators, they had "explained their reasons" for pushing Ndaw and Ouane out, and insisted that elections would still be held next year.

Young military officers ousted president Ibrahim Boubacar Keita last August after weeks of demonstrations over perceived government corruption and his handling of the jihadist insurgency.

ECOWAS, a 15-nation regional bloc, threatened sanctions, prompting the junta to hand power to a caretaker government that pledged to reform the constitution.

Recently there had been signs of public discontent, with the opposition M5 movement demanding a "more legitimate" body.

On May 14, the government said it would appoint a new "broad-based" cabinet.

The reshuffle saw the military keep the strategic portfolios it controlled during the previous administration.

But two other coup leaders -- ex-defence minister Sadio Camara and ex-security minister Colonel Modibo Kone -- were replaced, prompting officers to detain the president and prime minister.

Goita accused Ndaw and Ouane of failing to consult him on the reshuffle and decried what he called a "demonstrable intent to sabotage the transition".

The transitional charter, a document largely drawn up by the colonels, sets down principles for underpinning Mali's return to civilian rule.

"The scheduled elections will be held in 2022," Goita added.

But many have doubted whether the military-dominated government had the will -- or the ability -- to stage reforms on a short timescale.
Bamako, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th May, 2021 ) :Colonel Assimi Goita, who led a coup in Mali last year, has once more taken the reins of power in the war-torn Sahel state.

This week, soldiers detained the president and prime minister of an interim government installed in the wake of a coup in August, provoking diplomatic uproar.

The military released the pair on Thursday but stripped them of their powers. According to diplomats and army officials, Goita has taken command.

But the young military officer, a former special forces commander who has shunned the limelight since arriving on Mali's political scene, remains an enigma.

Few are confident about what his motivations are, or his ultimate goals.

Once a relative unknown, Goita burst onto the political stage on August 18 when he launched a coup against elected president Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, after weeks of mass protests over perceived corruption and his failure to end Mali's jihadist insurgency.

Then 37, Goita said in a public address following the coup: "We no longer have the right to make mistakes." Cutting a martial figure in fatigues with a khaki shemagh scarf around his neck, Goita has been seen in public since then, but has rarely spoken.

- Man of action - The son of a former director of Mali's military police, Goita studied at the country's main military school.

In 2002, he went to Mali's desert north for training, and was subsequently based in the northern cities of Gao, Kidal, Timbuktu, Menaka and Tessalit.

Goita also saw action during the 2012 Tuareg independence rebellion, which was quickly commandeered by jihadists.

Mali has since struggled to quell the brutal Islamist insurgency, which has killed thousands of people and displaced hundreds of thousands more.

A colonel who requested anonymity said that Goita isn't concerned about how people see him.

"He's a man of action, we saw him in the north," he said.

- 'Son of the nation' - Threatened by international sanctions after launching the August coup, Goita's military junta handed power to the caretaker government headed by President Bah Ndaw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane.

The nominally civilian government was meant to reform the constitution and stage elections within 18 months.

But Goita himself became the interim vice president, and the military retain significant clout.

Ornella Moderan, the head of the Sahel programme at the Institute for Security Studies, said the government was part of a "much larger system designed to ensure the ex-junta's control of the state apparatus".

Goita, though mostly out of the public eye, quickly became the point of contact for foreign governments. He would insist on Mali's commitment to the fight against jihadists, and on returning civilian rule.

On Monday, the army deposed Ndaw and Ouane after a government reshuffle that would have replaced two colonels who took part in the August coup, who were serving as the defence and security ministers.

Brema Ely Dicko, a Bamako-based sociologist, said that removing the two putschists from the caretaker government was seen as "an affront".

Baba Cisse, an advisor to Goita, said on Wednesday that the military officer had acted as a soldier, and was a "son of the nation who guaranteed stability".
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Noumea, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th May, 2021 ) :Rescue services in New Caledonia were Thursday searching for the body of a fisherman believed to have been killed by a shark, following a spate of fatal attacks in the South Pacific territory this year.

The alarm was raised on Wednesday after fishermen told emergency services they had seen a shark attack a fisherman diving off a beach on the Nouville peninsula northwest of the capital Noumea.

"Our boat is still there but nothing has been found and no one has yet gone to the police or the gendarmerie to report a disappearance," Alexandre Rossignol, head of communications for civil defence, told AFP.

Witnesses recounted the attack to the newspaper Les Nouvelles-Caledoniennes.

"It was very fast. We saw eddies on the surface, it was a shark that was attacking," one witness said. "We saw the fins flapping above the water and then nothing more." A sea and air search of the area had yet to find the missing fisherman, the local government said.

Swimming and other water sports and activities have been banned along a coastal strip near the attack until Sunday.

Local authorities have also authorised the hunting of bull and tiger sharks in a radius of one nautical mile around the site of the suspected attack for 72 hours.

Several sharks have already been captured, including a 4.3-metre (14-foot) tiger shark, which will be autopsied.

At least two other people have been killed in shark attacks in the French territory off the northeast coast of Australia this year.

A 53-year-old man was killed while paddle-boarding off a beach in the same area of Nouville in late April while in February a 57-year-old man was killed by a tiger shark near Maitre island, a popular tourist site off the coast of Noumea.

Authorities believe the disappearance of a swimmer and a boater earlier this year could also be due to sharks that have settled along the coasts near Noumea.

Worldwide, there were 13 shark attack fatalities last year, according to the Florida Museum of Natural History's International Shark Attack File, more than the global annual average of four.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 20:37:15|Editor: huaxia

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LONDON, May 27 (Xinhua) -- A nationwide police operation across Britain has seen 1,100 people arrested and almost 300 weapons seized, the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) said Thursday.

The round-up of suspects was part of an intensification week by police forces in a clampdown on so-called County Line networks in which drugs are exported from major cities and imported into other areas, often using vulnerable adults and children.

The operation, from May 17 to May 23, included the execution of warrants, joint operations between police forces and intercepting vehicles potentially involved in county lines activity.

Latest figures suggest there are 600 potential county lines per month, which is a reduction due to more accurate recording methods and improved police activity.

The National Crime Agency (NCA), working as part of the intensification week, said recent successes include seizing 500 kg of cocaine in a shipping container at London Gateway and preventing it reaching British streets.

The NCA said a truck driver has been charged by police accused of smuggling 107 kg of cocaine, with a street value of 12 million U.S. dollars into Britain on a ferry from the Netherlands.

NPCC spokesperson, deputy assistant commissioner Graham McNulty, said the police response to county lines has increased substantially over the past 18 months.

"It is vital that everyone looks out for the signs of exploitation. This may be a child with unexplained cash, a new expensive phone or clothing, suddenly going missing, in possession of rail tickets or taxi receipts, a change in behaviour and new people suddenly appearing at a house or flat," McNulty added. Enditem
United Nations, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th May, 2021 ) :The UN Security Council on Wednesday "strongly condemned" the ouster and arrest of Mali's interim president and vice president by the military, and called for a return to civilian government.

But the council did not discuss punitive measures like sanctions and shied away from describing the political turmoil as a coup.

In a unanimous statement, the council called for "the safe, immediate and unconditional release of all the officials detained and urged the defense and security forces elements to return to their barracks without delay." The council expressed its continued support for the return to civilian government after the military coup of August 18, 2020.

It urged a restoration of the civilian-led transition, which envisages a return to elections and constitutional order on an 18-month timeline.

"Imposing a change of transitional leadership by force, including through forced resignations, is unacceptable," the statement said.

Earlier Wednesday Mali's interim president Bah Ndaw and prime minister Moctar Ouane resigned, according to a junta official, two days after they were detained and stripped of their powers in what appeared to amount to the country's second coup in nine months.

The Security Council said it maintained its "strong support" for the mediation efforts by the African Union and Economic Community of West African States, and stressed the potential negative impact of the turmoil on efforts to counter terrorism in the country.
Goma, DR Congo, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th May, 2021 ) :DR Congo authorities ordered the evacuation of part of the city of Goma on Thursday over the risk of further eruptions from volcano Nyiragongo, causing an immediate exodus of tens of thousands of people, an AFP correspondent said.

"Right now we can't rule out an eruption on land or under the lake (Kivu), which could happen very soon and without warning," the local military governor General Constant Ndima told media.

str-hba/reb/jah
(@FahadShabbir)

The Intelligence Wing of National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Lahore on Wednesday conducted a successful raid in Johar Town and arrested an accused, Mian Muhammad Fayyaz, impersonating himself as DG NAB, Sukkur

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th May, 2021 ) :The Intelligence Wing of National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Lahore on Wednesday conducted a successful raid in Johar Town and arrested an accused, Mian Muhammad Fayyaz, impersonating himself as DG NAB, Sukkur.

The accused, Mian Fayyaz, allegedly used to impersonate himself as DG NAB Sukkur to gain illegal benefits from different government officers and others by using pressure tactics and influence. More to that, the accused approached numerous senior police officers, administration of private housing societies and different deputy commissioner offices to seek favors by impersonating himself as NAB's senior officer.

As per available reports, the accused also used to gain benefit by portraying himself as political leader. After collection of suffice evidences against said accused, NAB Lahore's Intelligence Wing, as per law, arrested the accused from Johar Town area and an amount worth Rs 4.4 million cash along with weapon have also been confiscated from the accused during the raid.

Moreover, NAB Lahore officials have acquired a physical remand of said accused till 2nd June 2021 after producing the same before accountability court.
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RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 28th May, 2021 ) :Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa Thursday said the credit for the national polio campaign goes to the grassroots workers including mobile polio teams, Law Enforcement Agencies and health representatives.

The Army Chief expressed these views during his telephone conversation with Co-Chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) Bill Gates here, an Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) news release said.

Speaking on the occasion, the COAS said that it was a national cause and national effort.

"We will only call it a success when no child is affected by Polio anymore in Pakistan," the Army Chief said.

Bill Gates conveyed his special appreciation for Pakistan Army for supporting national polio drive and ensuring proper reach and coverage of polio campaigns this year, particularly through involvement of community leaders and influential.

The COAS appreciated untiring efforts of Bill Gates and his foundation towards the noble cause of Polio eradication at global level and assured him of continued support.
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RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th May, 2021 ) :Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Thursday said Pakistan valued its relations with Russia and hoped for furthering military to military relations between the two countries.

Russian Ambassador Danila V. Ganich, called on the Army Chief here at GHQ, said an Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) media release.

During the meeting matters of mutual interest, regional security situation, enhanced bilateral and defence cooperation and Afghan Peace Process were discussed.

Speaking on the occasion, the COAS said that Peace in Afghanistan was a common goal where both sides reiterated mutual efforts towards achieving the goal.

The COAS appreciated recent visit of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to Pakistan and hoped for further diplomatic engagements at higher level.

The Russian Ambassador lauded Pakistan's sincere efforts for bringing peace and stability in the region, especially the Afghan Peace Process.

Both reiterated the commitment to enhance Pak-Russia bilateral relationship.
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ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th May, 2021 ) :Pakistan wants to further enhance its bilateral bonds at the multi-faceted level i.e. trade, economic, public, and parliamentary with Somalia.

These views were expressed by Chairman Senate Sadiq Sanjrani in a meeting with Somalian envoy Khadija Mohammad El Makhzoumi, who called on him here at Parliament House on Thursday.

He said Islamabad highly values its relationship with Somalia.

During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, important bilateral issues, regional situations, trade and economic ties between the two countries were discussed in detail.

The two sides discussed a wide range of issues with a focus on Pakistan-Somalia relations and mutual support at multilateral fora.

"The two countries have always supported each other's stance on various issues on international forum, which is commendable. Pakistan appreciates Somalia's support for Pakistan in the UN Security Council. Islamabad wants lasting peace and prosperity in Somalia", Sanjrani maintained.

Highlighting historical ties and Pakistan's steadfast support to Somalia, the Chairman reaffirmed the commitment to further promote bilateral cooperation in diverse fields, in particular in trade and investment.

The Chairman Senate stated that Pakistan, under its "Engage Africa" initiative, attached high importance to its relationship with Africa and Somalia.

Pakistan has a conducive environment for investment and that Somalian investors and traders should benefit from Islamabad's friendly policies, he further added.

The visiting dignitary also invited Pakistani investors to take advantage of the investment opportunities in Somalia and identified the livestock, fisheries, agriculture, and natural resources as key sectors in this regard.

The Ambassador conveyed gratitude over Pakistan's consistent support and expressed the desire to forge closer ties in a range of areas.

The exchange of delegations at the parliamentary level must be expedited for boosting cooperation in the parliamentary spheres. Pakistan will provide scholarships to Somalian students to enhance their skills in technology and science, Sanjrani maintained.

The issue of Palestine and Kashmir was also discussed in detail during the meeting. Pakistan strongly condemns the human rights and international law violations caused by Israeli occupation forces oppression, Chairman Senate underlined.

"Bilateral cooperation and coordination between the two fraternal countries are enhancing further and is of great significance. Somalia would like to benefit from Pakistan's continued support in human resource development as well as its expertise in countering terrorism", Somalian envoy stated.

While hailing Pakistan's effective policies to contain Coronavirus, the visiting dignitary said that Pakistan has controlled the spread of the epidemic by taking effectual measures at the earliest which must be appreciated.

The two sides agreed to maintain close contact to follow up on key areas of mutual interest.
MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 27th May, 2021) Foreign ministers of the EU member states will discuss economic and sectorial sanctions on Belarus in light of the Ryanair incident at their informal meeting in Portugal, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell announced on Thursday.

"We are going to discuss Belarus today for sure. Only two days after the [EU] leaders took important decisions on Belarus, we are going to discuss how to implement the decisions on economic and sectorial sanctions to Belarus," Borrell told reporters ahead of the meeting.
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MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 27th May, 2021) G7 Foreign Ministers on Thursday said that they condemn the arrest of Belarusian journalist Roman Protasevich and threaten to levy sanctions on Minsk.

"We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union condemn in the strongest terms the unprecedented action by the Belarusian authorities in arresting independent journalist, Raman Pratasevich and his companion, Sofia Sopega, after forcing flight FR4978 on which they were travelling to land in Minsk on 23 May," a joint statement of G7 Foreign Ministers read.

The G7 also condemned actions of Belarus that lead to the emergency landing of Ryanair plane which "jeopardised the safety of the passengers and crew of the flight."

"We demand the immediate and unconditional release of Raman Pratasevich, as well as all other journalists and political prisoners held in Belarus. We will enhance our efforts, including through further sanctions as appropriate, to promote accountability for the actions of the Belarusian authorities," the statement read.
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Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has defended the country's hotel quarantine system after a COVID-19 outbreak in Melbourne.Morrison told Parliament on Wednesday that hotel quarantine for international arrivals to Australia has been 99.99 percent effective in preventing COVID-19 outbreaks

CANBERRA, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th May, 2021 ) :Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has defended the country's hotel quarantine system after a COVID-19 outbreak in Melbourne.Morrison told Parliament on Wednesday that hotel quarantine for international arrivals to Australia has been 99.99 percent effective in preventing COVID-19 outbreaks.

The number of cases linked to a new outbreak in Melbourne's north grew to 15 on Wednesday.

The opposition Labor Party criticized the government's failure to establish a national "purpose-built" quarantine facility.

"The Commonwealth and the states have worked together to put in place a system of quarantine, administering state public health orders, that has had a 99.99 percent effectiveness rate," Morrison told Parliament in response.

As COVID-19 reemerged in the community in Melbourne, there had been about 3.8 million COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in Australia.

"At our current pace of roughly 516,000 doses a week, we can expect to reach the 40 million doses needed to fully vaccinate Australia's adult population in late September 2022," said the Australian Broadcasting Corporation's report on Wednesday.

As of Wednesday afternoon, there had been 30,048 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Australia, and the numbers of locally and overseas acquired cases in the last 24 hours were nine and four respectively, with one under investigation, according to the latest figures from the Department of Health.
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MINSK (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 27th May, 2021) A delegation from Moldova will not take part in the meeting of the Council of CIS Heads of Government in Minsk due to restrictions on flights to Belarus, Belarusian Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko said on Thursday.

The meeting is scheduled for Friday.

"Unfortunately, I was informed that the Moldovan delegation would not be able to participate as planned.

This is also a consequence of incomprehensible and unnatural events related to the far-fetched flight restrictions. As a matter of fact, our Moldovan partners have suffered because of the policies of European countries," Golovchenko said at the meeting with CIS executive secretary Sergei Lebedev.

At the same time, the Belarusian prime minister said that Moldova would be represented at the council meeting by its ambassador in Minsk.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 20:38:58|Editor: huaxia

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by Keren Setton

JERUSALEM, May 27 (Xinhua) -- The latest round of fighting between Hamas and Israel that was concluded with a cease-fire mirrored the geopolitical shifts that have occurred in the Middle East in recent years.

It was the first serious escalation between Hamas and Israel since the new U.S. administration was sworn in. It was also the first test for the new peace accords between Israel and a number of Gulf states.

Some experts say Iran, Israel's arch enemy, helps Hamas not only by funding, but also with supplying weapons and technologies, considering that Hamas has launched a massive bombardment of over 4,000 rockets into Israel in 11 days.

"What we are seeing is Iranian meddling, waiting for the right timing to demonstrate its strength and show how it controls events in Israel," said Eyal Pinko from Bar Ilan University.

"The support for Hamas and Islamic Jihad comes from Iran," said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu when speaking to journalists in the midst of the fighting.

"Without Iranian support, both of them would collapse in two weeks. Iran not only supports them, but also engages itself in armed attacks against Israel," Netanyahu said.

Last month, Iran vowed revenge against Israel after it held the country responsible for an attack on Iran's leading uranium enrichment plants. As U.S. President Joe Biden took office in January, Israel has stepped up its warnings against U.S. returning to the nuclear deal former President Donald Trump abandoned.

In the past decades, Israel has engaged in covert warfare against Iran, not only against its proxies but also supposedly targeting its nuclear abilities.

"Iran has a strategy of non-contact warfare. It knows how to create a warfare that engulfs Israel through its continental borders and within the borders without actually fighting directly. This is a significant threat to Israel," Pinko told Xinhua.

Hamas, however, did have internal motivation for engaging in warfare with Israel. The heavy fighting began after weeks of tensions around the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem. Hamas vowed to retaliate Israeli restrictions in the contentious area and fired a barrage of rockets. The surprise attack led Israel to launch a major offensive on Gaza.

"Hamas does not operate according to Iranian interests, rather it had considerations of internal Palestinian politics and a power struggle within the organization on how to react to certain events, both in Jerusalem and in the West Bank," said Nimrod Goren, head of the Mitvim Institute for Regional Foreign Policies.

Hamas seized the opportunity of the controversial postponement of Palestinian elections to consolidate its position amongst the Palestinians, both in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, he said.

The Abraham accords, signed in the last summer, normalized relations between Israel and four Arab countries. While the initial euphoria has subsided, the Israeli military offensive in Gaza did not appear to cause a major strain in the relations.

"It was a case study for the countries that now have a diplomatic presence in Israel while there is an escalation and it took them some time to respond. The responses were very clear against the escalation and called Israel to refrain from violence, but this was not accompanied with any concrete moves," Goren told Xinhua.

As in previous conflicts, it was Egypt that led the efforts to broker a cease-fire. Egypt shares a border with the Gaza Strip and has taken an active role in trying to stop Hamas' armament. Similar to Israel, Egypt has also enforced a strict blockade on the territory since Hamas violently took over control in 2007.

"Egypt is a regional power with a massive military," Pinko said. "It sees itself as a country with great influence in the area and wants to position itself vis-a-vis Iran as a nation that sets the tone, especially when it comes to Hamas."

In recent years the Israeli Palestinian conflict has been sidelined. But the recent flare-up brought the issue back to the forefront, especially in regional politics.

"The escalation proved that the conflict cannot be ignored or bypassed; it is present and has influence even if the different sides do not want it to have," Goren added. Enditem
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CHISINAU (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 28th May, 2021) Moldovan President Maia Sandu on Thursday said that her family members have been illegally monitored for several weeks at the order of Interior Minister Pavel Voicu.

"The Minister of Internal Affairs ordered the surveillance of my family members, he cannot follow me, because I have a state guard, and decided to monitor my family. Of course, this is illegal, it is part of the pressure system. I have information that surveillance has been going on for at least several weeks," Sandu said on the TV8 broadcaster.

The president noted that the surveillance also targeted other politicians, adding that the issue can be solved through a total purge of law enforcement agencies from corrupt officials.

"This [monitoring] happens to those politicians who do not belong to the Party of Socialists. It is obvious that this is happening at the order of the Socialists," she explained.

Sandu noted that she did not plan to file a complaint, and called on the population to take part in the early parliamentary elections on July 11 to appoint worthy deputies who would help restore order in the country and punish all those who abused their powers.
The head of Paris-based Reporters Without Borders (RSF) protested on Thursday at the Belarusian border along with dozens of journalists after the arrest of anti-regime blogger Roman Protasevich

SALCININKAI, Lithuania, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th May, 2021 ) :The head of Paris-based Reporters Without Borders (RSF) protested on Thursday at the Belarusian border along with dozens of journalists after the arrest of anti-regime blogger Roman Protasevich.

RSF chief Christophe Deloire and the Belarusian and Lithuanian journalists placed portraits of their 21 colleagues imprisoned in Belarus on a fence along the EU border between Lithuania and Belarus.

Deloire called the government of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, in power since 1994, "predators of the liberty of the press" and said the strongman was acting like a "terrorist".

Reporters Without Borders this week asked Lithuanian prosecutors to investigate Lukashenko's role in diverting the plane carrying Protasevich and his girlfriend Sofia Sapega on Sunday.

There has been no contact with either of them since their arrest except for two supposed "confession" videos released by Belarusian authorities.

"Lukashenko himself should be prosecuted, because what he has done, what he has clearly ordered and what he now justifies is plane hijacking with terrorist intentions and he is responsible," Deloire, holding a photo of Protasevich, told AFP.

He said the international community should pressure on the regime to secure journalist's release.

"We will not forget you, we will continue to fight for you," Deloire said.

- A 'disastrous situation' - Standing at the border, Lithuanian journalist Sarunas Cerniauskas said this was "as close as we can get to the regime".

"But we really want to come closer when it comes to exposing the things that are going on in Belarus and all the abuses of human rights and the abuses of power," said Cerniauskas, head of an investigative journalism centre in Lithuania.

Indre Makaraityte, who works for the Lithuanian national broadcaster, said: "Any dictator and any tyrant is afraid of publicity".

Belarusian journalist Maksim Tsikhenia, a correspondent for Belarusian media outlet Charter 97, called the events in Belarus "terrible".

"By our presence, we want to declare the need to give freedom to independent journalists and independent journalism," he said.

RSF ranked Belarus 158th out of 180 in the world in its 2021 World Press Freedom Index.

On Monday, amid a growing international uproar over the grounding of the Ryanair flight, Lukashenko approved legislation that would ban reporters from providing real-time coverage of unauthorised mass protests.

Any Belarusian national -- not just a journalist -- is banned from covering an unauthorised rally or using crowdfunding to pay fines over the violation of legislation on mass gatherings, according to the legal amendments published by state media.

Speaking in Vilnius earlier on Thursday, Deloire said Belarusian journalists were facing a "disastrous situation".

"We came here because we want to send a signal that we support the journalists in Belarus," he said.
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MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 27th May, 2021) Unknown vandals damaged the memorial of glory to fallen Soviet soldiers and the Eternal Flame in the city of Vulkaneshty in southern Moldova, Vadim Shinik, a representative of the local department of the international union Heirs of Victory, said on Thursday.

"This morning, May 27, I found out at the Memorial of Glory of Vulkaneshty that unknown persons had vandalized the Star at the Eternal Flame and moved it to another place," Shinik wrote on his Facebook page.

He also revealed to Sputnik his suspicion that the damage was made by local youth, who regularly spend leisure time in the area.

He called on the residents to help identify the perpetrators.

Moscow has expressed its outrage over such acts of vandalism carried out on the monuments in Moldova dedicated to Soviet soldiers who fought in World War II and urges Chisinau to make an adequate response to the incidents.
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Turkish foreign minister will pay a working visit to Greece on May 30-31, the country's Foreign Ministry said on Thursday

ANKARA, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th May, 2021 ) :- Turkish foreign minister will pay a working visit to Greece on May 30-31, the country's Foreign Ministry said on Thursday.

The visit by Mevlut Cavusoglu comes at the invitation of his Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias, the statement said.

Before going to the capital Athens, Cavusoglu will first visit Greece's Western Thrace region on May 30, the ministry added.

The Western Thrace region is home to a Muslim Turkish community of around 150,000.

Turkey has long protested Greek government measures denying local Muslim Turks their rights under both treaties and European law.
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WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 27th May, 2021) US President Joe Biden said the US Intelligence Community has determined there is insufficient information to assess whether COVID-19 came from human contact with an infected animal or from a laboratory leak.

"I had my National Security Advisor task the Intelligence Community to prepare a report on their most up-to-date analysis of the origins of COVID-19, including whether it emerged from human contact with an infected animal or from a laboratory accident," Biden said in a press release Wednesday. "Here is their current position: 'while two elements in the IC leans toward the former scenario and one leans more toward the latter - each with low or moderate confidence - the majority of elements do not believe there is sufficient information to assess one to be more likely than the other."

Biden said he directed the US Intelligence Community to redouble efforts to investigate the matter and to report their findings to him in 90 days.

The US Intelligence Community is expected to reach out to China with specific questions about the origins of COVID-19, Biden said.

Biden said the intelligence community will work with US national labs and other Federal agencies to enhance efforts to get closer to a definitive conclusion of the origins of the disease.

In addition, Biden said, the United States will continue to work with the international community to press China to participate in a full and transparent investigation.

The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday, citing intelligence data, that three lab employees in Wuhan, China, became sick in November 2019 with symptoms similar to COVID-19, which, according to the newspaper, should support the hypothesis that the virus could have originated in China.

The first COVID-19 case was reported in December 2019 in Wuhan, located in eastern Chinese province of Hubei. Former US President Donald Trump blamed the outbreak on China and suspected it originated in a virology lab in Wuhan.

The World Health Organization (WHO) sent several fact-finding missions to Wuhan and released a full report in March which concluded that the leak from the lab was "extremely unlikely." WHO experts further concluded that the virus was transmitted to humans from animals which may have consumed bats.

The United States and 13 other countries issued a joint statement casting doubt on the accuracy of WHO report and called for a "transparent and independent" investigation into the origins of COVID-19.

US House Intelligence Committee chairman Adam Schiff warned against drawing conclusions too hastily.

"It is critical that we allow the IC, and other scientific and medical experts, to objectively weigh and assess all available facts, and to avoid any premature or politically-motivated conclusions," Schiff said in a statement.
Research in Music

The School of Music is located at the University of South Florida, a preeminent state research university. Resources for an array of research opportunities and subjects abound. Students gain valuable research experience that enriches their education and develops professional skills.

At the School of Music, we house the Center for Music Education Research and present various research symposiums and conferences, such as the USF Performing Arts Medicine Association Southeast Regional Conference and the Suncoast Music Education Research Symposium.
Mr. Stig Hagen, Founder and CEO of Kanfer Shipping and Mr. Pan Xuejian, President of Taizhou Wuzhou Shipbuilding Industry Co. Ltd. sign the shipbuilding contract for the construction of its first two small-scale LNG bunker and distribution ships.
People sit outside an art gallery that was reopened after it was damaged due to the massive explosion at Beirut's port area

The Commission of the Bishops' Conferences of the European Community (COMECE) is appealing to the European Union to support the people of Lebanon who are facing a political and economic crisis.

By Vatican News staff reporter

Support the Lebanese people in crisis: That was the appeal launched by the Commission of the Bishops' Conferences of the European Community (COMECE) to the European Union on Wednesday, as the country struggles "to maintain its identity and social fabric in the face of the current multifaceted crisis".

COMECE's appeal to the EU comes after the Lebanese Church voiced its fears in a letter sent to EU Bishops.

In the communication to Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, president of the Bishops' Commission, the Assembly of Patriarchs and Catholic Bishops in Lebanon (Apecl) expressed concern about the dangers posed by the current political, social, health and economic crisis that afflicts the Lebanese people.

Challenges facing Lebanon

Lebanon has been experiencing a critical situation for many months on several fronts: politicians have been unable to reach an agreement to form a new government, which has been vacant for some time; while on the economic level, the currency has been heavily devalued, while a lockdown caused by the Covid-19 pandemic has further aggravated the social situation. Added to this crisis, have been the many street demonstrations against the stalemate of the government, as well as the dramatic economic and social consequences of the serious explosion, which occurred on August 4, 2020, at the port of Beirut, and which left around 200 dead and 7 thousand injured.

Calls for support

According to the Church in Beirut, "the gravity of the situation endangers the very identity of the country, forged by encounter, plurality and fraternity, which makes it a natural place of dialogue between different religious and cultural communities." For this reason, Apecl urges the international community, including the EU, to "support the Lebanese people by ensuring the preservation of their individual, collective and national rights, contributing to the fight against the economic crisis, to the protection of the social fabric and the preservation of the identity of Lebanon".

Christian community

In their letter, the Patriarchs and Bishops of Lebanon also emphasize "the need to support the Christian presence in the region through the institutions of the Church, which are and will always remain at the service of all citizens, without distinction or discrimination, and will continue to work tirelessly for the common good.

In a meeting with the European Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement, Oliver Varhelyi, COMECE brought these concerns "to the attention of the EU, proposing concrete ways to address the social, housing, health and educational needs of the Lebanese population".

Church humanitarian response

Meanwhile, the episcopal body recalls that "in the absence of effective public policies and actions, the Church and religious organizations (such as Caritas Lebanon and L'uvre d'Orient) are providing indispensable humanitarian services to all communities". However, Don Manuel Barrios Prieto, Secretary General of COMECE notes that "the socio-economic crisis amplified by the Covid-19 pandemic poses an existential threat to many of their operations," Therefore, he adds, we encourage the EU to seek creative ways of engagement and partnership with local Churches and religious actors.
Cardinal Charles Bo of Yangon, the president of Myanmars Catholic bishops, has condemned the bombing of Sacred Heart Church in Kayah state between Sunday and Monday night, saying the countrys humanitarian tragedy must stop.

By Robin Gomes

Myanmars leading Catholic Church figure has vehemently condemned the military shelling of a Catholic Church, Sunday night, that killed and injured innocent civilians, saying the countrys great humanitarian tragedy needs to stop.

Attack on unarmed civilians

It is with immense pain that we express our concern over the attack on innocent civilians who took refuge in the Church of the Sacred Heart on the night of May 23", said Cardinal Charles Bo of Yangon in an appeal on Monday on behalf of the countrys Catholic bishops. The violent acts, including continuous shelling, using heavy weaponry on a frightened group of largely women and children, resulted in tragic death of four people and wounding more than eight, he said, referring the mortar attack on the church in Kayanthayar Parish near Loikaw, the capital city of Kayah state, on the border with Thailand.

Local sources say more than 300 people from at least 60 families had taken refuge in the church compound due to fighting over the weekend between the military and a local anti-coup resistance group known as the Karenni Peoples Defense Force (PDF).

According to the Vaticans Fides news agency, 75 percent of Kayahs population belong to ethnic minority groups and is the state with the highest percentage of Christians. There are over 90,000 Catholics, almost a third of the 355,000 inhabitants of the State.

The families least suspected a place of worship coming under attack, and that too in the dead of the night when most people were asleep. Father Soe Naing, a spokesperson for Loikaw Diocese, said all those sheltering in the church had fled by the time church officials checked the damaged building on May 24 morning. He said thousands of people have taken refuge at churches, priests centers and nuns convents because they thought they were safe.

Poverty, virus stalking the poor

Cardinal Bo, the president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Myanmar (CBCM), said The church suffered extensive damage, bearing witness to the intensity of attack on a place of worship. The midnight attack made the hapless people to flee to the jungle. Their fate is still not known to the outside world. Food, medicine and hygiene are urgent needs but there is no way of reaching them. Many among them are children and old people, who are forced to starve and are without any medical aid, he said, denouncing it as a great humanitarian tragedy.

The attack becomes even more heinous considering the fact that unarmed people took shelter in the church to protect their families. Every heart in this country weeps for the death of the innocent people, the cardinal said. Now, hundreds die; thousands become refugees and displaced. More than 20,000 have been displaced in the recent conflict in Loikaw, he lamented.

This needs to stop, the cardinal appealed, urging everyone not escalate the war. Millions of poor people, deprived of their livelihood because of the Covid-19 pandemic, he said, are facing starvation, while another wave of infections is imminent.

Respect for international law

Cardinal Bo, who is also the president of the Federation of Asian Bishops Conferences (FABC), reminded all parties in conflict that places of worship as cultural property of a community, are covered by International Protocols. Churches, hospitals and schools are protected during conflict through the Hague Conventions, he pointed out, pointing to the military that those who have been killed and injured are not enemies but citizens of this country.

Cardinal Bo said the Catholic bishops of Myanmar were making an urgent appeal for peace, not as politicians but as a group of faith leaders, not as politicians. We are praying for Peace in this great land and hoping all of us can live as brothers and sisters in this great nation, the cardinal wrote in his appeal.

Jesuits condemn church attack

The Jesuits of Myanmar have also denounced the church attack. While condemning these "heinous crimes in the strongest possible way" they also demand that "the Burmese military be held accountable for what happened. "The military must immediately stop the attacks against civilians and churches, they told Fides.

In a Facebook post, the Myanmar Jesuits lamented that nowhere is safe now as the war has come to town. Since the regime's forces are snatching and murdering innocent civilians arbitrarily, there's no other option for the people but to defend themselves with whatever means they can get. The people don't have the firepower of the military, such as machine guns, rocket-propelled grenades, artillery guns, tanks and helicopters, but they have the will and the determination to resist evil. The security forces are firing their heavy weapons towards the homes and looting whatever they want.

The Jesuits also denounced the Pa-O National Organisation (PNO) as traitors for collaborating with the regime's forces and fighting against their own kins. The people are in need of some basic necessities and the spiritual support as soon as possible. Justice, truth and peace must prevail! Myanmar Jesuits wrote.

Protests and ethnic conflicts

Myanmar has been in turmoil since the Feb. 1 military coup that ousted the elected government and detained its leader, Aung San Suu Kyi. Protests and a civil disobedience campaign of strikes against the coup have paralyzed parts of the economy.

Fighting is also raging in ethnic areas of Karen, Kachin and Chin states, which have large Christian populations. The military is stepping up its offensive against ethnic guerrillas and anti-coup resistance groups by deploying fighter jets and heavy artillery.
Catholic seafarers charity Stella Maris signs up to the Gulf of Guinea Declaration on the Suppression of Piracy, following increasing attacks in the region.

By Vatican News staff reporter

The Declaration was signed by Stella Maris International Network Director Fr Bruno Ciceri, who is based in the Vatican, on behalf of the charity.

Speaking about the scourge of piracy, Fr Bruno said, We fully support the efforts by all parties in the fight against piracy. It is unacceptable that seafarers, unsung heroes who keep world trade moving, continue to be subjected to pirate attacks. Aside from disrupting the global economy, the persistent threat of danger and harm puts considerable stress on seafarers and their families.

The Declaration was drafted in response to growing concerns and increasing attacks in the region and has been signed by organisations across the maritime industry including flag state administrations, ship owners, charterers, and shipping associations.

According to the ICC International Maritime Bureau, the Gulf of Guinea accounted for nearly half (43 percent) of all reported piracy incidents in the first three months of 2021, The region accounted for all 40 kidnapped crew incidents, as well as the sole crew fatality.

In 2020, Stella Maris chaplains supported seafarers in three piracy cases, providing vital pastoral care to the crew members affected by the attacks.

In one case in Lagos, Nigeria, the charitys chaplains boarded a ship following an attack at sea to meet with the crew members.

Stella Maris said it hoped governments and enforcement agencies will be able to find a more permanent and long-term solution to the problem of piracy and bring the perpetrators to justice.

We urge hijacked seafarers and fishers not to lose hope that they will be soon reunited with their loved ones and to remain strong in their faith. Families of the hijacked seafarers and fishers can also contact us for assistance and support.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 20:41:23|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- China and Uganda have signed a customs agreement on mutual Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) status, a move that will facilitate trade between the two countries, China's top customs authority said on Thursday.

This is the first arrangement on AEO mutual recognition signed between China and Africa countries, said the General Administration of Customs (GAC).

Under the agreement, companies that obtain the AEO status in the two countries will enjoy simplified customs procedures, such as reduced examination or prioritized clearance, when they export products to the other country.

The AEO system, initiated by the World Customs Organization, aims at facilitating customs clearance for enterprises through the authentication by customs agencies of enterprises with a high level of legal compliance, credit status and safety.

China has signed mutual AEO agreements with 46 countries and regions, ranking first in the world in terms of the number of agreements, according to the GAC. Enditem
According to the UNs childrens fund, 228,000 children under 5 and 11,000 mothers died due to disruptions to essential health care services in South Asia in 2020 due to the pandemic. The current surge in infections could be even more devastating unless addressed adequately.

By Robin Gomes

The United Nations Childrens fund (UNICEF) has raised alarm over South Asias fragile healthcare system devastated by massive waves of Covid-19 infections, which could claim many more lives than last year. UNICEF regional director for South Asia, George Laryea-Adjei called for urgent action and funds to save the lives of hundreds of thousands of children and mothers in the densely populated region who are missing out on routine life-saving healthcare.

Fragile health system

Speaking at a video press conference from the Nepali capital, Kathmandu, Laryea-Adjei described just how desperate the situation is in the region, stressing, We simply cannot let this happen.

The scenes we are witnessing in South Asia are unlike anything our region has seen before, he said, noting he has seen patients families carrying oxygen cylinders into hospitals, risking their own lives in hopes of saving a loved one.

Exhausted health personnel working up to sixteen hours a day are unable to pay individual attention to every patient under their care, he said, warning of a real possibility of the fragile health systems collapsing.

Half the worlds Covid-19 cases in South Asia

Home to 2 billion people and a quarter of the worlds children, South Asia now accounts for half the worlds Covid-19 infections, the UNICEF regional director pointed out. Over 3 new infections are being recorded every second in the region and 1 person is dying every 17 seconds. "The sheer scale and speed of this new surge of Covid-19 are outstripping countries abilities to provide life-saving treatment, Laryea-Adjei said.

India registered 4,529 deaths on May 19, the highest number on a single day in the history of Covid-19, he said. In Nepal, the infection rate is as high as 47 percent. Sri Lanka, where 88 percent of hospital beds are occupied, is hitting new highs in fresh cases and deaths. In the Maldives, the health system is under severe strain unprecedented peak in cases, particularly in the capital, Male. "Bangladesh, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bhutan could all face similar devastating surges, UNICEF said.

Lives of children and mothers at stake

"We need to act fast to save lives now, Laryea-Adjei said, adding we also need to do everything within our power to keep the critical health care services that children and mothers so heavily rely on running.

He pointed out that due to the pandemic, an estimated 228,000 children and 11,000 mothers across South Asia died due to severe disruptions to essential health services, such as routine immunization, care during pregnancy and childbirth, and treatment for pneumonia and malnutrition.

With the second wave four times the size of the first, he warned of a likelihood of a severe spike in child and maternal deaths in South Asia.

We simply cannot let this happen, he urged.

Laryea-Adjei said his agency has been working tirelessly to scale up the response by providing critical lifesaving supplies such as oxygen concentrators, testing kits, pulse oximeters, oxygen monitors, ventilators and masks.

"But much more support is needed," he said, adding UNICEF needs $164 million for the urgent delivery of these supplies. He said this will help bolster the healthcare systems of South Asian countries not only now but also in the long term.

Unfair vaccine access

Laryea-Adjei also blamed vaccine inequity for fueling the virus in the region.

According to UNICEF, less than 10 percent of the population in India, less than 8 percent in Nepal and less than 5 percent in Sri Lanka have had an anti-covid vaccine dose.

The UNICEF official warned that if the high-risk populations continue to remain unvaccinated, the virus will continue to rage. He said wealthier countries need to donate their excess doses to COVAX, the UN-led facility to ensure poor countries are not left behind in the fight against the virus.
Normal, IL (61790)

Today

Partly cloudy early followed by scattered thunderstorms this afternoon. High 92F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Some passing clouds. Low 68F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
500 Startups partners Binh Tran and Eddie Thai start new Vietnam venture capital firm

Binh Tran and Eddie Thai, general partners at early-stage venture fund and seed accelerator 500 Startups Vietnam, said that they have finished deploying their first Vietnam-focused seed fund, 500 Startups Vietnam. They are launching a new firm to invest larger checks and to provide more support for a more concentrated portfolio of companies.

Ascend Vietnam Ventures (AVV) will seed $500 million to $2 million into 25 startups over the next three years. A third of those companies will receive further investment of up to $4 million each.

The Southeast Asia region continues to mature and there exist sufficient capital across all stages for founders. It is at an inflection point where what it took companies to be the regional or global winners of today is insufficient for the winners of tomorrow.

"With a smaller portfolio, well have the time and resources needed to help each portfolio company build advantages in three critical areas. While these competencies are formed within the first 18 months of a companys formation, they span the entire life of a company to serve as differentiators in an increasingly competitive world," said Binh Tran.

When 500 Startups Vietnam was first launched, the startup landscape in Vietnam was completely different from what it is today. Back then, tech startup founders were few and far between, toiling away with limited resources or guidance. There were just a handful of early-stage investors in a tech ecosystem where terms like convertible notes, minimum viable products, and cap tables were foreign.

To give a sense of how young the ecosystem was, the total amount of venture capital invested in Vietnam in 2017 was $48 million, a minuscule amount for a country of almost 100 million people. Fast forward just two years later to 2019 and that number has approached $1 billion. Startups like ELSA, Trusting Social, Axie Infinity, and Earable have attracted global investors such as Sequoia, Founders Fund, Gradient (Googles AI-focused fund), and Mark Cuban.

It is clear that Vietnam's tech ecosystem has grown and matured with an increase in the number and quality of founders who are building deeper solutions. There have been more seed rounds more than double in size and dozens of early-stage investors have joined the field to find the regions next market leaders.

The partners will continue to manage the 500 Startups Vietnam fund, which has a portfolio of 76 companies, while starting the new venture. Ascend Vietnam Ventures investments will be larger than the typical $100,000 to $200,000 that 500 Startups funneled into individual companies.
According to a new report from the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers Association (VAMA), in April Vietnamese consumers bought over 30,000 cars, achieving a growth rate of 155 per cent over the same period in 2020. Despite the strong increase in consumption, delivery times have been lengthened due to a shortage of components.

Mitsubishi Vietnam said its car orders have to wait until the end of May if the order was made from mid-April. The group plans to cut output in Japan and Thailand, but has yet to reveal any changes for its facility in the southern province of Binh Duong. Suzuki Vietnam meanwhile officially informed its dealers that a number of XL7 and Ertiga cars will be restricted from being imported in the near future due to the Suzuki factory in Indonesia cutting production.

The Indonesia factory leaders blamed the cut in production on a lack of components. Last month The Jakarta Post reported that car manufacturer PT Suzuki Indomobil Motors had to temporarily suspend operations. Suzuki now assembles light trucks and vans in Vietnam, but all passenger cars are imported from Indonesia and Thailand.

According to the General Department of Vietnam Customs, imports saw a sharp decrease in April at 4,918 units, down nearly 60 per cent on-month, while the average price increased by $8,000.

The number of completely-build-up cars of all kinds registered at customs clearance and imported into Vietnam last month mainly originated from Thailand at just over 2,400 units, Indonesia at 1,200 units, and China with 424 units. The number of cars imported from these markets accounted for over 80 per cent of the total number brought into Vietnam in the month.

VAMA general secretary Ninh Huu Chan said that the semiconductor chip shortage is causing output reduction and pushing prices up. He cited JD Power, a US data analytics and consumer intelligence company, as predicting in late March that the price of each unit will increase from 5-25 per cent. Chan explained the chip shortage is a knock-on effect thanks to increased appetite for smartphones, computers, and other electronic devices during pandemic restrictions, as well as continuing trade tensions between the United States and China.

Japanese carmaker Toyota Motor meanwhile announced last week that it plans to temporarily halt operations at two of its plants in Japans northeast in June. This is the first time that output adjustments are being made involving three models  the C-HR and Yaris Cross crossover SUVs as well as the Yaris compact car  because of the semiconductor shortage.

Meanwhile Toyota Vietnam, which sold 5,700 cars, up 96 per cent on-year in April, admitted that its model Corolla Cross is limited in supply.
Many beverage groups covering water, iced tea, soft drinks, and more are enjoying rising revenues. Photo: Le Toan

In late March, Masan Consumer Holdings, a member of Masan Group, officially inaugurated a complex with the total investment capital of nearly $70 million, located in the southern province of Hau Giang. Covering an area of 10 hectares at Hau River Industrial Zone, the complex is able to put out 180 million litres of soft drinks per year in collaboration with other products such as instant noodles and rice fibre items.

Masan Consumer Holdings plant in Hau Giang is part of its strategy to invest in and expand nationwide production systems to optimise logistics costs. Besides that, it will help the company realise the target of doubling revenues in terms of the beverage segment this year.

In 2020, the company acquired $161.7 million in revenues from the segment, up 5 per cent on-year, with the major contribution of energy drinks. Notably, its Wake-Up 247 coffee-flavoured energy drink garnered revenues of $87 million and made up 10 per cent of energy drink market share. Compact Cherry products, meanwhile, reported an increase of 81 per cent in revenues on-year, with market share of 1 per cent.

Masan Consumers impressive growth is demonstrating the potential of the beverage market and especially soft drinks in Vietnam, with the group not yet even in the top three largest beverage producers in the country.

Attaining profits

According to a report published by Vietnam Credit in 2020, the beverage market is dominated by Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, which take up around 64 per cent of the market share; followed by domestic players like Tan Hiep Phat Beverage Group. All have reported rocketing increases in revenue.

Suntory PepsiCo Vietnam earned $796 million in revenues in 2019, up $100 million on-year. Its success is thanks to its wide portfolio of popular brands in the soft drinks market, such as Aquafina, Tea+, Twister, Sting, Pepsi, and 7-Up.

Global soft drinks giant Coca-Cola follows with revenues of $404 million in the same period, and Tan Hiep Phat at $400 million and focusing on tea and energy drinks. Another giant from the Philippines, URC, holds fourth place with more than $304 million in sales.

TCPVN, the first international office in Vietnam for TCP Group, acquired $43.5 million from the Vietnamese market thanks to its only product here, energy drink Red Bull.

Regarding profits, the Tan Hiep Phat complexs profit has increased steadily over the years, but in 2019 it jumped 65 per cent from $87 million to $143.5 million thanks to an important contribution from a new Number One Chu Lai factory. In that time, PepsiCo Vietnam attained just over $160 million in profits.

Growth in the beverage industry is forecast to maintain an annual increase of 7 per cent  a large rise compared to the average increase of 2 per cent for the likes of France or Japan, according to statistics published by the Vietnam Beer-Alcohol-Beverage Association (VBA). With the most rapid growth seen in the fast-moving consumer goods industry, the volume sales of soft drinks and carbonated soft drinks in Vietnam was estimated to likely reach 3.3 billion and 1.5 billion litres in 2020, respectively.

The VBA statistics showed that 85 per cent of the annual production and consumption of the Vietnamese beverage market come from soft drinks, instant teas, fruit juices, and energy drinks. The association expects that the output of soft drinks will reach from 8.3 billion litres to 9.2 billion litres per year.

According to Tran Qui Thanh, CEO and founder of Tan Hiep Phat, the group sells more than one billion litres of beverages per year including herbal green tea, energy drinks, mineral water, and soy milk in the domestic market and exports to 16 countries. The sales figures are expected to triple in the next five years, which also serve for export.

In the early days of establishment, the group had only 20 employees and the capacity was approximately one million litres of beverages a year, 3,000 bottles a day. Currently, the group has more than 4,000 employees, providing the market with more than one billion litres per year, said Thanh.

By 2023, the group expects to make more than three billion litres of beverages per year.

Investment ahead

Masan Consumer expects that its revenues from energy drinks will touch $217 million of the $304 million total revenue in terms of the companys beverage segment as a whole. The company sets the target to balance its revenues from the food and beverage sector at 50 per cent each by 2025.

In a meeting with former Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc in 2018, president of Coca-Colas Bottling Investments Group Calin Dragan said that the corporation was looking for areas in Hanoi to build a fourth factory in Vietnam, while simultaneously planning to open an additional factory in Ho Chi Minh City in 2020. However, the pandemic developments seem to have put such plans on hold for now.

The project in Hanoi was set for the total investment of $300 million, which would produce both traditional and nutritious products with higher added value using local materials, while generating jobs for thousands of direct and indirect labourers and developing a distribution network. Coca-Cola Vietnam first started investment in the country with a venture in Hanoi in 1994.

In the context of pandemic impacts, many businesses in the beverage industry are taking advantage to accelerate investment in innovation from the distribution system and adjusting the proportion between traditional and modern channels; developing applications to enhance customer experience; transforming packaging design; and developing product lines to strengthen resistance and the immune system for consumers, among others.

Nguyen Dang Quang, chairman of Masan Group, said that in difficult times many food businesses are pioneering in finding solutions and new directions to be ready to overcome the pandemic.
Illustrative photo (Source: VNA)

Hanoi - Kenneth Atkinson, a board member of the British Chamber of Commerce Vietnam (BritCham Vietnam), told German news agency DW that he remains positive about Vietnam's overall economic growth in 2021.

Talking about Vietnam, Atkinson was quoted in a recent article published by DW as saying the recent COVID case spike will "have an effect on the next financial quarter."

"But by the way the authorities are controlling the industrial areas in the north, I would expect that within three to four weeks those areas will open again but there will be a lag," said Atkinson.

DW reported that during the global economic slump in 2020 brought on by the pandemic, Vietnam's economy proved resilient, managing an impressive 2.9 percent in year-on-year growth.

Exports to the EU in 2021 are 28 percent ahead of last year, and foreign remittances from overseas Vietnamese are also strong, based on recent figures.
What advantages and disadvantages has the pandemic created for businesses providing electronic payment solutions, from online to offline?

Ngo Trung Linh, CEO of VietUnion

The pandemic and its various restricted healthcare requirements have impacted businesses traditional activities and forced them to change from a mainly offline to online platform.

We can clearly see that the rapid growth of such businesses with strong online platforms while those who still manage offline business with physical stores have suffered many more challenges and damages from COVID-19. On the positive side, it has sped up digital transformation in firms, forcing them to move faster and faster in adopting online tools.

Viet Union with the Payoo Omni payment solution is a unit that supports both online and offline business groups. Payoo helps online businesses to accept various payment methods such as QR codes, e-wallets, e-vouchers, and interest-free instalment payments in order to acquire and expand more customer segments.

For offline businesses, we help them transform to electronic methods to reduce cash use, which carries more risks of the virus spread, or enabling offline businesses to move towards online payments through various means.

E-wallets are constantly offering attractive promotions to attract customers, but in fact, very few report profits after many years of operation. Does the race kill e-wallet platforms with more serious losses?

An attractive market always attracts many businesses. The current e-wallet market is considered to have big potential and has huge room for development.

Every business has its own strategy. Brand promotion and customer acquisition is a common strategy in the early stages to have a large group of loyal customers. The cost of acquiring customers is very high, and it is even more expensive to retain customers. The first stage is always the most intense.

However, in order to survive in the long term, businesses need to ensure a balance between the interests of customers and the interests of service providers. Competition will also encourage market development, bringing more advanced technology solutions. Like any other business field, incompetent and unsuitable units will also be eliminated according to the rules of competition to leave the playing field for businesses with more appropriate and effective solutions and high endorsement from customers.

What suggestions do you have for e-wallets to survive and develop sustainably in the fierce competitive market?

Every business needs to identify its strengths and characteristics. Enterprises should choose a strategy suitable to their internal resources: people, finance, technology, services and capabilities to introduce the right and appropriate customer segments and products for the market.

To serve the payment needs in Vietnam, besides banks, there are more than 40 payment intermediaries and in the future there will be more. You will succeed and survive if you realise your strength and choose the right strategy.

Why did you choose to develop e-bill payments at a time when the field was underdeveloped in Vietnam?

We have been making e-commerce payments since 2009. The market at that time was still very primitive here, and inefficient with the forms of cashiers coming to the house to collect money. Payoo pioneered in building a platform to make bill payment more convenient, especially utility bills such as electricity, water, television, and internet  services that require monthly payments.

From 2011-2012, the company focused on building a platform to support the payment of bills, after being funded by NTT Data, a major company in the field of bill payment in Japan. The company has contributed to changing the payment habits of customers since the service was introduced, thereby helping to increase customers awareness of the convenience, simplicity, and efficiency of electronic payments.

In recent years, we have returned to e-commerce with both online and offline payment solutions in all fields from e-commerce trading floor, travel, and healthcare to education, public services, and electronics.
The F&B segment is looking at great prospects for M&A. Photo: Le Toan

In January, Japanese seafood giant Maruha Nichiro announced that it had taken over food processing company Saigon Food. Founded in 2003, Saigon Food produces and distributes frozen seafood and ready-to-eat food under the SG FOOD brand for local and export markets like Japan. The company has four factories with freezing warehouses in Ho Chi Minh City.

Focusing on the growing consumption market, Saigon Food has established itself as one of the leading brands of porridge and hot pot sets in Vietnam, and in recent years has also started selling baby food. Its products are mainly sold in supermarkets and convenience store chains like Co.op Food, Bach Hoa Xanh, Ministop, FamilyMart, Circle K, and others.

Maruha Nichiro decided to acquire Saigon Food in order to secure a new marine product processing base and to acquire a platform for the development, processing, and sales of processed foods.

In the midst of changes in the food supply chain around the world due to COVID-19, Saigon Food has the ability to develop products that are simple, safe, and easy to store, as well as the ability to sell them to the consumer market, a company statement said.

In April, Vietnamese agriculture and food company The PAN Group spent $4.3 million raising its ownership to 28.57 per cent of charter capital in Khang An Foods JSC. Following the deal, Khang An Foods will increase its charter capital from around $10 million to over $15 million with a view to constructing a food processing factory and a farming area in 2021. Khang An Foods, a member company of Sao Ta Foods JSC, is operating in processing and preserving seafood, buying and selling food, preliminary processed agricultural products, and production and export of agricultural products.

In another case, in early April, seafood processing company Vinh Hoan Corporation purchased an additional 1.8 million shares in Sa Giang Import Export Corporation to increase its ownership to 76.7 per cent. Sa Giang produces instant noodles and crackers made from crab and squid. The deal helps Vinh Hoan venture into the food and beverage (F&B) sector.

Huong Trinh, managing director of investment banking advisor BDA Partners in Ho Chi Minh City, told VIR that F&B will remain an attractive sector for mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in Vietnam, driven by favourable macroeconomic fundamentals. COVID-19 has also hurt trade activities and thus created higher demand for local foods.

These elements create a stable investment environment and growth prospects for Vietnams F&B, and we believe M&A activities in this sector will continue to increase, she said. We have seen more such activities from local players following the consolidation trend when market conditions are challenging for small- and medium-sizes businesses. Recent notable transactions include the acquisitions of 3F Viet by Masan, GTNFoods by Vinamilk, International Dairy JSC by Blue Point, and Sa Giang by Vinh Hoan.

Indeed, F&B has always been a magnet for M&A in Vietnam. In the previous decade around 245 deals with the total value of $12.5 billion were recorded, led by giants in the industry such as Masan, KIDO, and The PAN Group. After a lull period, buyers have become more active in the M&A scene.

A report by the British Chamber of Commerce Vietnam revealed that one advantage for foreign investors entering the market through M&A is that they would not be required to apply for the investment registration certificate when contributing capital or buying shares of a local company, according to regulations. Another advantage would be time reduction for the licensing process as sub-licences would have already been granted to existing Vietnamese establishments.

However, such companies would be faced with other challenges to overcome involving different strategies, vision, and culture to Vietnamese companies, as well as compliance standards such as health, safety, and the environment, accounting and financial reporting, and taxes, said the report.

With regards to local investors, M&A is also a powerful tool to create synergy of strengths for involved stakeholders. Tran Le Nguyen, general director of KIDO Group, said that the group has had actively conducted M&A strategies to increase the ownership in Tuong An Vegetable Oil and other subsidiaries like KIDO Frozen Foods and Vocarimex. The group is taking steps to merge with companies to optimise expenses for production, management, and distribution channels, thereby expanding its market share in the food industry.

At the same time, KIDO is joining forces with Vinamilk to extend its reach in the beverage sector. The two have formed a joint venture named Vibev producing and trading healthy drinks and teas. In the increasingly fierce competition, the tie-up is crucial for both companies to improve its brand awareness and consolidate market share.

Trinh from BDA Partners believed that the stable domestic demand for F&B consumption and Vietnams good control of COVID-19 which minimises disruption in production have helped food manufacturing to be resilient during the pandemic. In addition, Vietnamese food companies will be beneficial from the participation in many free trade agreements.

She also expected Vietnamese businesses with market familiarity to become more active in M&A. Nevertheless, we do not think the execution of cross-border deals is an issue for foreign investors as people are getting used to the new normal and M&A is moving online with the support of conferencing solutions, cloud, and local forces of professional advisors on the ground, she said.
The United States is already Vietnams largest export market worldwide. Photo: Le Toan

A recent survey by compliance solutions provider QIMA pointed out that 43 per cent of US-based respondents cited Vietnam among their top three purchase locations as of early 2021, twice the percentage observed in 2019. Around 38 per cent of them also named Vietnam among the markets from where they plan to buy more during this year.

The report said that the appetite for sourcing from Vietnam is far from satisfied and is poised to redefine the supply chain landscape in 2021. The country has been a traditional first choice for buyers diversifying away from China, seeing its popularity among Western buyers grow by leaps and bounds over the past few years  a trend that has remained in 2021.

Vietnam witnessed 16 per cent on-year expansion in demand for inspections and audits from American and European brands in the first quarter of 2021, representing a third consecutive quarter of growth that had initially begun as a post-lockdown rebound in mid-2020. Growth is more than just a return to pre-pandemic levels, as inspection demand has, on average, doubled compared to the same period of 2019.

Vince Tran, senior manager at Walmart in Vietnam, said at a conference last December that the US retail giant is planning to expand the procurement of Vietnamese goods at its supermarket chains. Some potential products include footwear, handbags, apparel, wooden goods, food, agriproducts, and handicrafts. So far, Walmart has made inquiries about thousands of types of Vietnamese goods and purchased hundreds of them.

Meanwhile, according to Ken D. Duong, director of TDL International Law Firm, US buyers are increasingly sourcing products from alternative markets like Vietnam, presenting opportunities for local suppliers to get major orders. Also, Vietnamese Americans are actively seeking local suppliers to export Vietnamese goods to the United States.

Commenting on these growing activities, Adam Sitkoff, executive director of the American Chamber of Commerce in Hanoi (AmCham), told VIR that there are many US importers and retailers that rely on products made in Vietnam. This spans a wide range of goods  everything from clothes and shoes, to backpacks, seafood, and consumer electronics.

The US is already Vietnams largest export markets, and the latter receives billions of US dollars of foreign investment from US companies each year  much of it to build integrated supply chains that benefit American consumers.

Recent growth in Vietnamese exports is partially due to the strong economic recovery and consumer spending in the US, Sitkoff said. However, most of the export growth to the US appears to be driven primarily by the relocation and reassessment of supply chain sourcing from China to Vietnam.

Data from the Vietnamese General Statistics Office (GSO) showed that the US continues to be Vietnams largest export market with the total turnover of $30.3 billion in the first four months of 2021, up 50.1 per cent on-year. Many items with a turnover of $1 billion or more include furniture, textiles, footwear, computers, electronic components, and so on. It is forecast that by the end of this year, the US will remain one of the largest export markets for Vietnam.

As reported by The Wall Street Journal, the American share of Vietnams overseas sales has risen considerably based on Vietnamese export data and US data for imports. In the 12 months through January, US imports from Vietnam were equivalent to about 29 per cent of the Asian countrys total exports, far higher than the roughly 20 per cent average before 2019.

Stephen Olson, a research fellow at the Hinrich Foundation, told VIR that the punitive tariffs placed on China by the US created a financial incentive for American buyers to source products from Vietnam which they might have previously sourced from China. However, the tariffs only accelerated a trend that was already underway. As wages and other costs in China have been increasing in recent years, Vietnam has become an increasingly competitive source for many manufactured products, Olsen said.

In line with this trend, he noted that Vietnam will benefit from increased employment and production, but there are also some challenges that will have to be successfully managed. Greater manufacturing activity will have to be conducted in a way that is sustainable from both an environmental and social point of view. If not, the benefits will be offset over the longer term.

AmChams Sitkoff added whether Vietnam can take advantage of the opportunity to sell more to the US depends on how well the government does at creating a favourable business climate here. It is critical that US companies and investors here encounter an equal, level, and predictable playing field, Sitkoff explained. Reducing unnecessary administrative procedures, crafting clear and fair policies  especially with respect to customs and tax inspections  and making good decisions on key infrastructure investments will help attract more trade and investment from US corporations.
According to the National Assembly Office, the first session of the new NA is scheduled to be organised between July 20 and August 3. The session will take six days to consider personnel work and four days for other important issues such as reports on socioeconomic development and state budget in the first half of 2021 and solutions for the second half of the year.

The new NA deputies will be announced next month before the first congress

The new deputies will also debate and adopt resolutions on formulating laws and ordinances and a supervision programme for 2022, the countrys middle-term public investment plan for 2021-2025, as well as the national planning on land use for the rest of the decade.

The official list of the newly-elected NA deputies is expected to be announced on June 12. All deputies will receive a certificate stating that they are qualified to become NA deputies.

Last week, nearly 70 million voters went to polling stations across the country to elect deputies to the 15th NA and peoples councils of all levels for 2021-2026. Nearly 100 per cent of voters performed their legal rights and obligations, demonstrating increasing interest in the NA and its relevance to peoples lives. As many as 500 NA deputies and about 264,000 deputies of peoples councils have been elected.

Minister of Home Affairs Pham Thi Thanh Tra said, The elections have been a resounding success of democracy, equality, and safety ensured under the law. Despite difficulties caused by COVID-19, many people who are in isolation or are undergoing medical treatment could still vote, enjoying their full civic rights and responsibilities.

According to Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, the elections are especially important as they will help the country implement its new Socioeconomic Development Plan for 2021-2025 and the Socioeconomic Development Strategy for 2021-2030, and especially the resolution of the 13th National Party Congress organised in February  all aimed to build a socialist, law-governed state of the people, by the people, and for the people.

I do believe that with these extremely significant elections, our country will embark on a new period of development with a brighter outlook that can meet the requirements and aspirations of all constituents and people nationwide, the Party chief stressed after casting his vote in Hanoi.

I hope that all deputies of the 15th NA and peoples councils of all levels will devote their heart to the nation and its people, and fulfil all of their responsibilities under the constitution and the law. They are acting on behalf of the people in managing the country and society, he continued. As deputies representing the people, they have to continuously train themselves and enhance their ethics, skills, and knowledge, while keeping an open ear to the ideas and feedback of the public, and accomplish the tasks assigned to them by the constituents and people.

Vuong Dinh Hue, Chairman of the NA and chairman of the National Election Council, also committed that in the 15th NA and under the light of the resolution of the 13th National Party Congress, The legislative body will continue renewing itself to further improve the quality of law-making for all sectors and areas, deciding on important national issues and performing supreme supervision activities.

Commenting on the great significance of the elections, Caitlin Wiesen, resident representative in Vietnam of the United Nations Development Programme, said that the general elections are an important opportunity for people to implement their right to choose their representatives.

Political participation is clearly rooted in the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which highlights the right of every person to equal participation in public affairs, the right to vote, and the right to be elected, Wiesen said.

She referred back to the first general election back in 1946, where President Ho Chi Minh also clearly stated, General elections constitute an opportunity for the entire population to freely elect people with talent and good virtues to shoulder national affairs. Anyone with an interest in national affairs can stand for the elections and each citizen is entitled to go to the polls. All citizens, regardless of their gender, economic situation, religion, race, social class, or political party, have these two rights.

These principles are still as important and relevant as ever, Wiesen added. Women, men, persons who identify themselves of non-binary gender, and persons with disabilities bring their unique experiences and perspectives into the decision-making process. No-one else can understand and raise issues that impact them better than themselves, she said.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 21:03:08|Editor: huaxia

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MANILA, May 27 (Xinhua) -- The Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed on Thursday a 116-million-U.S. dollar green loan to build and operate three wind farms in Vietnam.

The Manila-based bank said the project in Quang Tri province in the North Central Coast region will increase Vietnam's wind power capacity by 30 percent, helping the Southeast Asian country meet the rapidly growing demand for energy.

The project will generate an average of 422 gigawatt-hours of electricity and avoid an average of 162,430 tons of CO2 emissions annually, said ADB.

The ADB said the loan is part of a green loan project financing package arranged and syndicated by the ADB.

"It is ADB's first financing of a wind power project in Vietnam and is certified by the Climate Bonds Initiative," the ADB said in a statement. Enditem
The latest announced additional sponsor packages by P&G Vietnam  part of Procter & Gamble (P&G), an American multinational corporation with leading brands across a wide range of consumer good categories  include VND3 billion ($130,430) in cash to help medical front liners through Binh Duong Red Cross and VND3.6 billion ($156,520) in-kind through Vietnam Red Cross and the Vietnamese Fatherland Front Central Committee in Ho Chi Minh City.

P&G presented meaningful donations to support COVID-19 relief efforts in Vietnam

At the same time, P&G Vietnam has also provided hygiene kits worth VND3 billion (including hand washing liquid, face masks, and vitamins) to its sales and office employees, as well as to employees of its nationwide distributors.

Earlier, since the onset of the COVID-19 outbreak last year, P&G Vietnam donated VND5 billion ($217,390) through the Vietnamese Fatherland Front Central Committee in Ho Chi Minh City to purchase personal protective equipment (PPE) kits for medical front-liners and personal hygiene kits (Safeguard, H&S, Ariel, Gillette) for use at government quarantine camps.

P&G Vietnam donated VND5 billion since the onset of the COVID-19 outbreak last year

The total amount of donations made by P&G Vietnam since early 2020 are nearly VND15 billion ($652,170).

P&G has a long history of supporting our communities in times of need all around the world, said Sai Ramana Ponugoti, P&G Vietnam general director. Since the onset of the COVID-19 outbreak, P&G has stepped up its commitments to be a force for good and we have been working with long-standing partner organisations to provide support to communities, relief agencies, and people impacted by this extraordinary situation.

Besides timely actions to support communities, P&G has also promised to maintain operations to ensure the supply of products to all consumers and customers at this challenging time.

P&G and its employees are working hard to continue making personal care, health, and hygienic brands like Safeguard, Ariel, Downy, Head & Shoulders, Rejoice, Pantene, Gillette, Whisper, and Pampers available to Vietnamese consumers through the current health emergency, while putting in place additional measures to keep its employees safe.

To date, P&G global and its brands have made in-kind product and monetary donations collectively valued at more than $10 million around the globe. These donations have provided financial support, hygiene education, and vital medical equipment and products for those most vulnerable and for individuals assisting those who are impacted by COVID-19.
An ad about vaccine tours notes that only one-way tickets are provided. The HCM City Tourism Department has warned the public against such tours due to possible hidden costs and a risk of no return flights. (Photo: VNA)

HCM City - The HCM City Tourism Department has ordered travel firms to suspend vaccine tours to the US due to possible hidden costs and the risk of no return flights.

Travel operators have been selling vaccine tours which provide only one-way tickets. There is no information about the return ticket on the ads, and other features remain unclear, according to the department.

Speaking at a recent meeting with tour operators, Nguyen Quy Phuong, director of the Tourism Department under the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, said people must be careful before booking the tours.

The vaccine tours are costly and only offer one-way tickets, and information regarding vaccinations is vague and there is no guarantee that the customers needs will be met.

Organising such a vaccine tour is not feasible in the current situation, he said.

Despite the fourth wave of the pandemic, Vietnam is considered safer than many other countries thanks to its consistent and comprehensive strategies, according to Phuong.

Since March last year, the country has closed its borders to everyone except repatriated citizens, foreign investors and certain businesspeople. Vietnamese citizens overseas who have registered with embassies have to wait for long periods to enter Vietnam.

Rachael Chen, spokesperson for the US Embassy, said that foreign nationals who want to temporarily visit the US must show their purpose of travel and must meet all requirements and be approved for the visa for which they applied.

Eligibility for vaccination remains the jurisdiction of health services in individual US states and the US government, she said.

A resident of Thu Duc city, who wished to be unnamed, said her family of three had US visas and wanted to travel to the US to visit relatives and receive vaccinations. But she is concerned about whether there will be a return flight.

If there is no return flight, we will be stranded there, she said.

Nguyen Huu Y Yen, general director of Saigontourist, said: Most travel firms find it hard to ensure the time when the tourists return home. If the guests are stranded abroad, the travel companies will be held responsible.

Jyoti Mayal, president of the Travel Agents Association of India, said: Its not illegal to go to the US. Travelling is absolutely your option. As an association, our advice is check out the credibility of the agent, check out all the documents, and then move forward.

Suthiphong Pheunphiphop, president of the Thai Travel Association, also noted that tour operators would not be responsible if the tourists experience side effects after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.

Tourists face a lot of risks. So they need to carefully consider costs and risks, he said.

Recently, ads for vaccine tours to the US have flooded social media in Vietnam.

According to the ads, one tour costs 45 million VND (1,950 USD) for an eight-day trip, including one-way air ticket from HCM City to US cities like New York or Los Angeles, three-star hotel, and a single dose of Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 vaccine, local media have reported.

The jabs developed by Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna require a two-dose regimen with a 21-day interval, while Johnson & Johnsons vaccine needs only one dose.

The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is about 66 percent effective at preventing symptomatic Covid-19, according to data released by the producer.

Experts said the total cost for the vaccine tour, including entry fees, quarantine, testing, and air tickets for the return could be up to 170 million VND (7,000 USD) per person.

Tran Van Long, director of the Vietnam Tourism Company, said the company wanted to launch ads about vaccine tours to learn more about the market before it asked for approval from tourism agencies to organise commercial flights for the tours.

After the consultation with the Department of Tourism, the company agreed to wait for more time to ensure the interests of customers.

Vu The Binh, vice chairman of the Vietnam Tourism Association, said the sale of vaccine tours to the US was not prohibited but warned that tourists returning to Vietnam will have to comply with pandemic measures under the guidance from the Ministry of Health, including the current 21-day concentrated quarantine and COVID testing.

In early May, Vietnam extended its quarantine policy from 14 to 21 days for all arrivals as the country was struggling with the fourth wave, including cases with a highly infectious variant from India.

The US has policies on COVID-19 vaccination for international visitors as part of its effort to bring back tourists.

All air passengers two-years-old and above can enter the US, including US citizens and legal permanent residents as long as they present certain documents. They must present a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days of departure, or proof of recovery from the virus within the last 90 days.

Elsewhere in the world, travel companies in Thailand are also selling vaccine tours to the US.

The US has one of the higher rates of vaccination in the world with at least 47 per cent of adults being fully inoculated as of this month, according to the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Meanwhile, developing and low-income countries are struggling to secure enough vaccine doses due to a lack of supply.
The removal of market barriers as a result of Vietnamese commitments under these agreements, coupled with a fast-growing middle-class, promote Vietnam to become a promising market for major automobile manufacturers from Japan, South Korea, the United States, and the European Union.

However, domestic automotive production faces many disadvantages such as a low localisation rate, which makes the prices of domestically manufactured and assembled cars higher than imported ones. Vietnams automobile production and assembly have the lowest localisation rate  specifically, trucks under seven tonnes have an average rate of over 20 per cent; passenger cars with 10 seats or more is 45-55 per cent; and personal cars of nine seats is 7-10 per cent (except for Toyotas Innova car which reached 37 per cent). Vietnams localisation rate is the lowest compared to ASEAN countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Vietnam boasts over 50 automotive plants with 18 foreign-invested enterprises and 38 domestic companies. The three major auto manufacturers of Truong Hai Auto Corporation (THACO), Toyota, and Mitsubishi Vietnam account for more than 70 per cent of the market share. THACO ranks first with 35.5 per cent market share, followed by Toyota on 24.9 per cent, and Mitsubishi at 10.2 per cent.

It can be seen that Vietnam has an oligopoly automobile market. The first characteristic of this market is it has few major players. One of the greatest barriers to entry in the automobile industry is the extremely high amount of capital required to purchase physical manufacturing plants and raw materials, as well as to hire and train employees. It takes a great amount of capital, not only for the manufacturing process but also to keep up with the latest innovations in order to compete with the industry leaders.

Therefore, the number of automobile manufacturing and assembly enterprises is stable, there are almost no new enterprises entering the market. In the field of automobile import and distribution (including new and used cars), the number of enterprises participating in this market is quite large, at over 500 enterprises. Although the concentration level in this field is quite high, the level of competition in the market is also high because domestically manufactured cars have to compete directly with a similar type of imported auto.

Under the Law on Competition, an enterprise is deemed to hold a dominant market position when it has significant market power or has 30 per cent or more of the market share in the relevant market. Within a highly concentrated market as automotive, the enterprises with dominant position need to employ an effective compliance programme to guarantee that they are not by chance breach the regulations of abuse of dominant market position as prescribed in the competition law.

In order to increase market power, many players in the automotive market may plan to engage in economic concentration, mainly in the form of joint ventures. This is an ideal way to effectively participate in the regional and global value chain of automotive production.

This March, TC MOTOR of Thanh Cong Group and Hyundai Motor Group officially entered into a joint venture to distribute Hyundai-branded passenger cars in the Vietnamese market. This joint venture promises to introduce new, high-tech products that are most suitable for the domestic market, and also aims to penetrate other regional markets.

As the concentration level of the automotive industry is relatively high, it is likely that the economic concentration in this sector would be scrutinised carefully by the competition authority if the notification thresholds prescribed in the Law on Competition are met. Having said that, joint ventures generally bring many positive impacts on development of the automotive industry that would be taken into account by the competition authority. The positive factors would be considered on the perspectives of competition law in term of assessing economic concentration includes three points.

First is whether or not the economic concentration will promote economic efficiency in terms of size and resources of the locality, industry, sector, and society, in coordination with the objectives set out in the governments or prime ministers approved strategy and planning for the development of industries and sectors.

Next would be the level of application of scientific advances and technological improvements by the enterprise after the economic concentration in order to improve productivity, quality, and business efficiency in order to reduce costs, improve the quality of products and services, or otherwise serve the interests of consumers and the community.

Finally, whether or not the enterprise after the economic concentration strengthened the competitiveness of Vietnamese enterprises in the international market would be assessed on the basis of the positive consequences of the economic concentration in expanding the scale of production, domestic consumption, and export of goods or services.
Participants in the UNSC session on May 26 (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi  Vietnamese Ambassador Dang Dinh Quy emphasised the central role of a comprehensive and lasting political settlement to bring stability to Syria while attending a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) session on May 26.

The regular session on the political and humanitarian situation in Syria, held virtually, was attended by Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for Syria Geir Pedersen and UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Mark Lowcock.

The two speakers pointed out the particularly dire situation facing the Syrian people amid the continued political deadlock and the negotiations between the government and the opposition at the Constitutional Committee, under the UN mediation, yet to make concrete progress.

Security uncertainties remain in some areas and always pose latent risk of escalation, seriously affecting civilian life, they said, noting the relentless humanitarian crisis severely aggravated by the economic downturn and COVID-19.

They also repeated the UN Secretary-Generals appeal for the extension of the mechanism for cross-border aid delivery into Syria so as to ensure humanitarian assistance for the Syrian people, especially the millions of people forced to leave their homes in the northwest of this country.

UNSC member states highlighted the importance of promoting a political solution, especially stepping up the negotiation process at the Constitutional Committee, on the basis of UNSC Resolution 2254 so as to thoroughly deal with the crisis in Syria.

In his remarks, Ambassador Quy, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the UN, said building trust among the parties concerned, enhancing diplomatic efforts, and maintaining security stability have a particularly special role to play in supporting the political process.

He shared the concern about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Syria, including food and water insecurity, the shortage of basic goods, and the pandemics serious impacts.

The diplomat called for boosting cooperation in delivering humanitarian aid throughout Syria and enhancing international support for humanitarian activities, with the focus placed on the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines.
A UK-born model living in Cyprus has died after complications resulting from the AstraZeneca adenovirus vector COVID-19 vaccine.

39-year-old Stephanie Dubois, a female model who had been living in Tsada, Paphos for the last several months accepted the first dose of AstraZenecas injection on May 6. She immediately complained of side effects on her Facebook account, saying Now I feel horrendouspizza and bed for me!

Dubois had posted her excitement to take the injection two days prior on May 4 to her Facebook followers.

39-year-old UK model Stephanie Dubois promoted her appointment for the AstraZeneca injection to Facebook followers on May 4. She immediately suffered severe adverse reactions and passed away 16 days later. (Image: Stephanie Dubois Facebook)

Cyprus Mail reported the model had no underlying comorbidities.

On May 8, Dubois reported she had a really rubbish couple of days with vaccination side effects (I think I had them all) and am finally feeling normal over 48 hours later.

In an effort to ward off increased vaccine hesitancy from Dubois death, Facebook has since added a warning sticker to the post sourcing the Chinese Communist Party-centric World Health Organization and claiming COVID-19 vaccines go through many tests for safety and effectiveness and are then monitored closely.

On May 14, the model posted again saying she had contracted severe symptoms of an unknown illness, which she thought may actually be COVID-19, Woke up feeling fine and then within an hour I had fully body shakes, all my joints seized and I was struggling to breathe and was cold to the bone with a persistent headache and dizziness.

I was convinced Id come down with Covid! Mum and dad came to look after me and took me for a covid test, which thankfully was negative but it still doesnt explain what the problem is.

Five hours later, Dubois posted again saying doctors had identified her white blood cell count was high, but did not know what was causing it.

At this point, she said she began to suspect she was suffering a side effect from her AstraZeneca injection, Maybe Im having a prolonged reaction to my Covid jab last week, or maybe those side effects affected my immune system and Ive caught something else In the processI am completely drained, no energy and my whole body hurts with sore and weak joints but it is better than it was this morning.

This morning really scared me to be honest, she added.

On May 18, in the final post on her Facebook account, Dubois said she was done being ill now along with a photograph of a now very bruised injection site.

Severe bruising at the site of the AstraZeneca injection UK model Stephanie Dubois took in her final post before passing away. (Image: Stephanie Dubois Facebook)

According to Cyprus Mail, Dubois was suffering from a thrombotic episode according to the Nicosia General Hospital. The paper also added It is understood she suffered a brain haemorrhage and was in a coma.

Dubois died the afternoon of May 22 according to the report.

The Greek newspaper also said a second 40-year-old who was also hospitalised for a thrombotic episode after receiving the same vaccine was in stable condition, according to her doctors.

Cyprus officials were quick to defend vaccinations, according to the report. Health Ministry Advisor Maria Koliou told CyBC, We were expecting to see a very small number of such incidents with the vaccination of younger groups.

An April 20, 2021 article by the UKs Daily Mail citing data from the Office of National Statistics found that out of the 52,071 total deaths in England and Wales connected to COVID-19 reported at that time, only 14 were people under 20 and 369 were between 20 and 40.

A staggering 92 percent of all COVID-19 deaths were from the combined age groups of 60 to 80 and 80+.

In a May 25 article by The Sun under a subhead titled Vanishingly Rare, noted the odds of dying from blood clots after taking a COVID-19 vaccine actually doubled from 2.1 to 4.5 per million people in Duboiss age group, 30-39.

OpenVAERS, which sources data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Controls Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System shows 4,201 and 328 miscarriages reported to the system as of May 14. VAERS data updates with one week of lag.
Twelve more people have died in Cambodia from drinking cheap adulterated rice wine, a perennial problem especially in rural areas, officials said.

The Health Ministry said the victims died in two additional deadly incidents after a drinking session at a May 10 funeral in Kandal province took the lives of 12 other people.

A court in Kandal has charged 13 people  two producers and 11 vendors  in connection with that incident. They are accused of violating a law against misleading representation leading to death or disability, which is punishable by two to five years' imprisonment.

Two people in a nearby village who had not attended the funeral died from drinking tainted wine this past Sunday and 10 others died in a village in the southern province of Kampot, the ministry said in a statement Tuesday. Fifty-six others were sickened but are recovering.

After tests from Kampot showed the deaths were caused by toxic wine, officials went to the affected village and barred further production and consumption of the product.

Rice wine is typically made in small batches in homes in the countryside and is popular at events such as weddings, funerals and village festivals. Alcohol is sometimes added to boost the drink's potency, but if it is not distilled properly it can contain toxic levels of methanol, which can cause blindness or death.

The ministry says that samples of the tainted wine contained excessive methanol.

Tests showed that the victims did not have COVID-19, which has surged recently in Cambodia, it said.

It advised local officials to monitor production of rice wine to make sure it is made safely without the addition of methanol.
U.S. President Joe Biden signed into law hate crime legislation in response to the recent rash of violence against Asian Americans. But residents in Southern Californias Little Saigon say racism against Asians is nothing new. VOAs Elizabeth Lee examines the medias recent focus on anti-Asian hate.
Some Zanu PF youth have invaded a Mashonaland West farm owned by war veteran, Frederick Mutanda, who challenged in court President Emmerson Mnangagwas extension of Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Luke Malabas term of office, according to an online publication, ZimLive.

ZimLive quoted Mutanda as saying 25 youth from Harare, using motorbikes and four vehicles, started camping at his Mutorashanga farm on Tuesday claiming that he is anti-government.

Two weeks ago, Mutanda, the Young Lawyers Association of Zimbabwe, Kika Musa of the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum and others sued the Judicial Service Commission and Attorney General when Mnangagwa extended Malabas term of office by five years.

Mnangagwa used some provisions of the Zimbabwe Constitution Amendment (Number 2) Act to extend Malabas term of office.

Malaba is said to have returned to work on Monday following a leave to appeal filed to the Supreme Court by state representatives a week ago.

Kika has filed an urgent court application seeking the committal of Chief Justice Luke Malaba to Chikurubi Prison for a period of six months for defying a High Court order issued by Justices Happias Zhou, Edith Mushore and Jester Charewa, declaring as null and void the extension of the chief justices term of office after he reached 70 years.

Kika, who was the applicant in the matter which was joined with another application filed by the Young Lawyers Association of Zimbabwe, secured a declaratory order in which the High Court declared that Malabas tenure as a judge and chief justice of Zimbabwe came to an end on May 15, 2021.

In a statement, Kika said, However, in complete defiance of this order the former chief justice presented himself at his office on May 24, 2021. The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) secretary, Walter Chikwanha, was quoted in the Herald newspaper on Tuesday as having confirmed the return of Malaba because of an appeal which the JSC noted.

Kika argues in his founding affidavit that the JSCs view that the appeal field by the government has suspended the operation of the judgment of the High Court is incorrect as the judgment of the court is a declaratur and is for that reason not suspended by the noting of an appeal.

He further stated that as a jurist of distinction, Malaba is aware of this position but has simply decided to be in contempt of court.

Kika seeks to have the prison term suspended on the grounds that Malaba shall forthwith cease and desist from exercising the functions of the chief justice either in a judiciary or administrative capacity.

Kika is also seeking to have an order that the record of these proceedings be placed before the Law Societys Disciplinary and Ethics Committee for it to take any action that it may find advisable and appropriate, considering the circumstances of the matter.

The three High Court judges ruled that  Extension of the time provided for in Section 186 does not apply to CJ (the chief justice) and any sitting but not acting judges of the Supreme Court and Constitutional Court and there shall be no order as to costs.
Sterling Heights, MI (48312)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun during the morning will give way to cloudy skies this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 86F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening followed by increasing clouds with showers developing after midnight. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 21:27:46|Editor: huaxia

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WASHINGTON -- To politicize the origin tracing of COVID-19, a matter of science, will not only make it hard to find the origin of the virus, but also give free rein to the "political virus" and seriously hamper international cooperation on the pandemic, said the Chinese Embassy in the United States on Wednesday.

"On the origin tracing of COVID-19, we have been calling for international cooperation on the basis of respecting facts and science, with a view to better coping with unexpected epidemics in the future," said the spokesperson for the embassy in a statement.

- - - -

HAVANA -- The U.S. embargo against Cuba has severely affected the telecommunications sector in the Caribbean nation, a high-ranking official said Wednesday.

"Between April and December 2020, the U.S. blockade has caused damages to this field worth 65 million U.S. dollars," Wilfredo Gonzalez, deputy minister of telecommunications, told a press conference.

- - - -

BELGRADE -- Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic and Chinese ambassador to Serbia Chen Bo welcomed the final batch of COVID-19 vaccines from China on Thursday at the Belgrade airport.

Brnabic recalled that the vaccines have been imported from China since January, and this was the final delivery envisaged in the contract that Serbia signed with Sinopharm in March.

She said that 45.3 percent of adults in Serbia have been vaccinated so far, emphasizing that "Sinopharm vaccines showed reliability that no one could have expected in difficult times and circumstances," and expressed gratitude to Chinese partners.

- - - -

KINSHASA -- The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is preparing to activate a precautionary evacuation plan in response to frequent earthquakes in Goma, said the Ministry of Communication and Media Thursday.

"Goma is still under persistent threat of repeated eruptions and earthquakes. This requires the government to activate as a precautionary measure a gradual evacuation plan for residents as soon as possible, before the threat is completely eliminated," the ministry tweeted. Enditem
Our monitoring service AllQuakes received reports of an earthquake in or near Near Khor'fakkan, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates at around 16:52 GMT. Unless confirmed by at least one national or international seismological agency, its status remains unconfirmed.

26 May 16:38 UTC: First to report: VolcanoDiscovery after 30 seconds.

report it

    (    ),      !Alsoalthough you were in the area, please! Your contribution is valuable also to earthquake science and earthquake hazard analysis and mitigation efforts.        ,  ,      .  !
We have re-opened our newspaper office to the public in Stowe. Our South Burlington and Morrisville offices remain closed, except by appointment. Face masks are mandatory, and appropriate social distancing must be practiced, at all locations. Please email or call us with questions, news or updates; and read our local coronavirus coverage.

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In Connecting North Alabama, WAAY 31 introduced the "Every Child has a Story" non-profit organization. On Sunday, one of the authors from the program had an event celebrating his book.

Jaden Coolie is an 11-year-old who can now add being a published author to his resume. He wrote and published his book, "The Galaxy Warriors" in 2019, and in 2021, it was re-published by Demico National.

Coolie's parents told WAAY 31 they're so proud he's published a book at only 11-years-old. His mom, Keaires Roberson, said she hopes it inspires other young kids.

"It gives kids something to look forward to, that you don't have to be out getting in trouble, or doing this. There's so much other stuff that you can do. Once you pick up your pen or pencil and you start writing, you not going to have time to be getting in trouble or be into this because you're going to be busy trying to pursue your dreams, even at a young age."

Coolie said he enjoyed the whole process.
Teachers in Athens city schools waved goodbye to their students for the final time this school year. Wednesday was the last day of what has been a tough school year for teachers and students because of the pandemic.

One Athens Intermediate school teacher told WAAY 31 it wasn't all bad. She said the difficulties made the teachers and students closer than ever. She said everyone is happy they're ending the school year on a positive note.

"I think we're all very thankful that we made it this far when we started school, when we started school I remember some of the teachers saying well let's do our lesson plan for only two weeks because we'll probably end up going virtual after that,' Shane Leopard, a fifth grade teacher at Athens Intermediate School, said.

"We're just so thankful that our system made it this far and that our leaders allowed us to stay in school and it's just been amazing."

Teachers will return Thursday to clean out their classrooms, then they'll also be able to begin their much needed summer break.
With summer almost here, people are relying more on their air conditioners, but if your AC unit breaks it might take longer to get it fixed.

The owner at Aire Serv said they're seeing parts take longer to come in or they're not available because facilities shut down due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Facilities shut down during the Coronavirus pandemic causing a backup. Facilities shut down during the Coronavirus pandemic causing a backup.

"It's been a challenge to number one getting parts and components to fix certain units because some come from overseas, some come from other countries, some are made here in the U.S.," said Scott Taylor, Aire Serv owner.

Taylor said manufacturers had to shut down because the Coronavirus pandemic and that caused a back-up in parts being delivered so, they've had to improvise.

"We weren't able to get those units so, we were having to go to different manufacturers trying to mix and match parts to try to make things work. It's been a real challenge for us to do that," said Taylor.

And with temperatures rising, he said it's been hard to meet demand something he didn't have to worry about before the start of the pandemic.

"Stuff was pretty readily available for us. We were able to, if someone needed a new AC system and they wanted it today we could have it being installed by the next day or sometime same day," said Taylor.

Now they have to check with manufacturers and distributors when they need a part.

"Now we have to call and verify and even then it's not a 100% because they get trucks that come in and they think parts are on it and when the truck gets here those parts aren't on it," said Taylor.

Taylor said manufacturers are starting to catch up and he hopes it will not be as much of a challenge in the next couple of months.
Former Astronaut and Space Shuttle Commander Col. Jim Halsell Jr. pleaded guilty Thursday to manslaughter and assault for his involvement in a 2016 wreck that killed two girls.

He had originally been charged with reckless murder.

The wreck took place on Highway 82 in Tuscaloosa County. Niomi Deona James, 11, and Jayla Latrick Parler, 13, were killed in the crash.

Halsell was sentenced to serve four years in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release.

He immediately was taken into custody Thursday and placed in the Tuscaloosa County jail.

The Tuscaloosa County District Attorneys office says Halsell spoke in court about his remorse and apologized to the families of the two girls who were killed.

He will remain held in the Tuscaloosa County jail until he can be transferred to a state prison to serve out his sentence.

Court documents state that Halsell, a Huntsville resident, was driving to Louisiana to pick up his son when the wreck took place.

Previously, an attorney for Halsell stated that Halsell had Ambien in his system at the time of the crash.
A Huntsville man was convicted of murder Wednesday. Charles Mosby will be sentenced in September.

Mosby is accused of shooting Raemon Ross in 2018. Ross was shot at his home on Binford Drive and told officers Mosby and another person knocked on his door with the intent of robbing him. He died a short time after talking with police.

Mosby was picked up in New Orleans and detained there until he could be extradited back to Huntsville in 2018.
After a five hour long search, 36-year-old, Adam Dexter Wilson is charged with kidnapping - interference with child custody.

This is after Wilson came to a residence in Lacey's Spring with a gun and took a 16-year-old from her home.

Wilson is in the Morgan County Jail Wednesday on a $2,500 bond. The Morgan County Sheriff's office said he could be facing more charges.

WAAY-31 spoke with a woman who knows the 16-year-old and said this whole situation is just shocking to hear.

"It made my heart drop because that's not something that happens around here, it's not something that happens at all," Jocasta Walker said.

Jocasta Walker lives near Prince Circle and said the abduction that happened nearby is something out of the ordinary for this area.

The search took five hours before authorities found the two individuals.

Initially, the call came in as an abduction and kidnapping in the area and at one point, an amber alert was issued.

For hours, authorities used helicopters, drones and even search beagles.

The dogs ultimately found them in a wooded area behind Brindlee Mountain Baptist Church.

"They were able to push them right into the perimeter we had, so it was a successful operation and thankfully the 16-year-old, juvenile, is out of harm's way," Mike Swafford with the sheriff's office, said.

Swafford said at the time of the crime, Wilson did have a gun on him but they did not find one at the time of his arrest.

"It could be out there anywhere. There's more work to be done but the biggest thing is the 16-year-old, the female juvenile, is no longer in harm's way with this incident and that's what we're thankful for," Swafford said.

Swafford said Wilson is known to the family, but he did not specify to what extent.

"This isn't normal. We're used to taking care of each other. We're not used to somebody coming out here and one of our kids is taken... Just talking about it hurts me like I want to cry right now," Walker said.

The 16-year-old is reunited with her family. However, investigators will question her to learn more about what led up to this incident.

Morgan County Sheriffs, Huntsville Police, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and the Limestone County Correctional Facility all assisted in the capture of Wilson.

Morgan County Sheriff's Office is the lead on the investigation.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 22:03:05|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter on Thursday to the World Symposium for Marxist Political Parties, saying that the Communist Party of China stands ready to jointly promote the cause of human progress and the building of a community with a shared future for mankind with Marxist political parties worldwide. Enditem
An Ohio man was arrested in Huntsville on Wednesday for crimes related to the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol.

Kenneth Joseph Owen Thomas, 38, of East Liverpool, Ohio, is charged with federal offenses that include assaulting, resisting or impeding certain officers; obstruction of law enforcement during civil disorder; and engaging in physical violence on Capitol grounds, among other charges, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Thomas made his initial court appearance in the Northern District of Alabama on Wednesday.

He has been released from custody.

More from the DOJ news release:

According to court documents, Thomas was on the Upper West Terrace at 4:22 p.m. where he was captured on Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) body-worn camera (BWC) footage advancing toward a line of law enforcement and pushing against their shields.

As depicted in the footage, Thomas punched and struck the officers with his fist and forearm at least twice.

At 4:26 p.m., officers began to dispel the crowd of rioters from the steps. Thomas turned toward rioters and ordered them to hold the line against advancing officers, repeating this several times.

In subsequent interviews, law enforcement officers confirmed the attack and stated the individual was one of the first to come in and start hitting [and] pushing officers on the line.

The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Divisions Counterterrorism Section.

Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Northern District of Alabama.

The case is being investigated by the FBIs Washington Field Office, who identified Thomas as #214 on their seeking information photos, as well as the MPD, with significant assistance provided by the FBIs Birmingham Field Office.

In the first 120 days after Jan. 6, approximately 440 individuals have been arrested on charges related to the Capitol breach, including over 125 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
Seven apple varieties, previously believed lost or extinct, have been found in old orchards in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, according to a joint press release by The Temperate Orchard Conservancy (TOC) and The Lost Apple Project (LAP). The re-discovered apples include the Almota, Carlough, Eper, Iowa Flat, Ivanhoe, Kay, and Steptoe. A team of volunteers from the LAP collected the apples in the fall of 2020 and passed them to the TOC, who identified them. The two cooperating projects have now identified a total of 29 apples once thought to be extinct.

Two frontier nurserymen, George Ruedy and Benjamin Buckman are connected to this group of once lost apples. At least five apples, known to have started as seedling trees in Whitman County, WA (where Ruedy lived), appeared in the 1901 printed inventory of Benjamin Buckman's experimental orchard in Farmdale, Illinois.

Three of the apples were Ruedy's introductions, including the Palouse, Whitman, and Colfax. The other two Whitman County introductions are the Almota and Steptoe varieties. The Kay is another locally introduced apple Ruedy likely carried in his inventory. It probably originated in Oregon but was also grown in Lewiston, Idaho, about 40 miles from Ruedy's Colfax Nursery. Ruedy was known to send new apple varieties from Whitman County to colleges and experimental stations around the country. It is believed that Buckman reciprocated Ruedy's gift of at least five trees by sending Ruedy varieties not yet tested in Whitman County. These trees likely included the Iowa Flat and Ivanhoe, varieties in Buckman's 1901 inventory and were not known to have been grown in the areas near Ruedy's nursery.

Almota

Almota was a seedling apple discovered by Charles Moys near Pullman, Washington. The tree was six to eight years old in 1894. USDA artist William Henry Prestele painted a watercolor of the apple in 1894 that incorrectly states Moys' surname as "Maye" and gives the apple the name "Maye Seedling." The painting also listed the name Almota as an alternative name. The apple is described as very large with pale yellowish skin, washed and striped with red. Charles Moys won first place for the best seedling apple at the annual Whitman County Fruit and Agriculture Fair in 1895. Georgie Leinweber, a great-great-granddaughter of Charles Moys, and her family still farm the homestead fields and land added to the farm during the past 125 years. The family still has the award her great-great-grandfather won in 1895.

The Almota apple tree was located southeast of Pullman on land farmed by the Roy Druffle family. The Almota was believed to have been sent by frontier nurseryman George Ruedy of Colfax, WA, to Illinois in the late 1800s along with several other apples that originated in the county. The Almota appeared in the experimental orchard of Benjamin Buckman of Farmdale, Illinois, in 1901.

Carlough

This apple probably originated in New Jersey or possibly New York. It was first recorded in 1891 growing in the trial orchard of Benjamin Buckman in Farmingdale, Illinois. It is described as medium to very large in size with pale greenish-yellow skin, often with a brownish pink blush. The apple is considered good to very good in quality for dessert or kitchen use and can remain in cellar storage until April. Carlough was found west of Salem, Oregon.

Eper

The Eper is believed to be one of thirty-four varieties of apples, plums, and prunes imported from Hungary in the 1890s by the US government and obtained and tested by George Ruedy. The apple is small with greenish-yellow skin with red stripes. It has a pleasant, mild flavor and ripens in September in eastern Washington. The apple tree was rediscovered 20 miles north of Colfax, Washington.

Iowa Flat

The Iowa Flat most likely originated in Iowa and was sold by a nursery in Nebraska not far from the Iowa border. Specimens were sent to the USDA in 1896. The apple is described as large but very oblate in shape. The skin is yellow or greenish-yellow covered with a red blush and red streaks on the sun side of the apple. The Iowa Flat was found near Orchard Avenue in Moscow, ID. The Iowa Flat appeared in the experimental orchard of Benjamin Buckman of Farmdale, Illinois, in 1901.

Ivanhoe

About one mile west of Pullman, WA, is what was once the Pullman Country Club. The club no longer exists, but on the property are many old apple trees. Several old varieties were identified, including the once lost Ivanhoe. Ivanhoe originated in Virginia and is described as medium to large with green or slightly yellow with bronze to reddish blush. The flesh is described as rich and spicy and keeps well. Specimens were sent to the USDA, and a watercolor was painted. The Ivanhoe also appeared in the experimental orchard of Benjamin Buckman of Farmdale, Illinois, in 1901.

Kay

The first known mention of the Kay variety was in a nursery catalog for the Milwaukie Nursery (early spelling) in Milwaukee, Oregon, in 1890. The apple is described as "of good size" with "yellow skin covered with deep red and distinct stripes of darker red." In 1898, a person in Lewiston, ID, sent the apple to the US Department of Agriculture, where it was used for a watercolor painting. In the fall of 2020, a Kay apple tree was located approximately 60 miles south of Lewiston near Flora, Oregon. The Kay appeared in the experimental orchard of Benjamin Buckman of Farmdale, Illinois, in 1901.

Steptoe

The Steptoe was raised from seed by John Thomson, Whitman County, Washington. The Thomson homestead was just 2 miles north of Pullman. Specimens were sent by John R. Reavis, Spokane, Washington, and received by the USDA on November 3, 1894. The apple has one painting in the USDA pomological watercolor collection. Described as large, round, with slight ribbing, the skin is pale yellow and considered very good quality. It is an early winter variety. The re-discovered Steptoe apple was found approximately one hundred miles southwest of the original apple near Waitsburg, Washington, on the property of Waitsburg residents Kate and Eric Hockersmith. The Steptoe apple was listed in the records from 1901 of the experimental orchard of Benjamin Buckman in Illinois.

Once a previously "lost apple" is identified, two apple trees are immediately grafted and planted at the Temperate Orchard Conservancy so they will not be lost again. Scion (grafting) wood and trees are later made available to the public by the TOC at http://www.temperateorchardconservancy.org/ and The Lost Apple Project at https://www.facebook.com/lostappleproject/.

The LAP now has over 20 dedicated members in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho searching for homestead-era apple trees. In 2020 they donated over 1,000 hours to the search for lost apple varieties.
Decatur, IL (62521)

Today

Partly cloudy early followed by scattered thunderstorms this afternoon. High 94F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Clear to partly cloudy. Low near 70F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
Decatur, IL (62521)

Today

Some sunshine with a thunderstorm or two possible this afternoon. High 94F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. Low near 70F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 23:19:58|Editor: huaxia

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MOGADISHU, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Somalia's federal government and regional state leaders finally signed an agreement on Thursday, ending an impasse that has delayed the holding of both presidential and parliamentary elections in the country.

Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble and leaders of five federal member states alongside the governor of Banadir Regional Administration pledged to conduct free and fair elections within 60 days.

Speaking after signing the revised agreement, Roble said that Thursday marked a historic moment and turned a golden page for Somalia's state-building and governance history.

Roble said the agreement was reached on all contentious issues including the Gedo region, Somaliland, and on the vetting of the structure of the election committees at the federal and state levels as well as the security of the country's elections.

He pledged that his government will make every effort to ensure free and fair elections in the country, calling on all electoral stakeholders and the Somali community to play their part in making the elections a success.

Roble also expressed his appreciation to the leaders of five federal member states and the governor of Banadir for their role in the election agreement.

"They have truly shown a great degree of flexibility, compromise, patience, and leadership," he said.

The prime minister said showing unity and compromise will enable the country to overcome the political and security challenges it currently faces.

President Mohamed Farmajo who is seeking re-election for the second term in office was until Thursday under pressure after the Feb. 8 election date passed without resolution of issues related to how the vote should be conducted in Somalia.

On the issue of Somaliland, it was agreed that the prime minister will be in charge of observing Somaliland elections and the senate speaker and his deputy will appoint eight members of the state-level electoral committees, one federal-level electoral committee, and one disputes-resolution committee member to supervise elections of representatives from Somaliland. Enditem
John Cabot University, a regionally accredited American liberal arts university in Rome, is searching for candidates to be posted on teamed assignments as ASL Interpreters. As an American Sign Language Interpreter, you will provide professional working proficient interpreting services in English, both live and on video (when needed), in various settings at John Cabot University, mostly in a classroom setting. The ideal candidates will demonstrate knowledge of a number of specialized skills. We are looking to create a team of ASL professionals, and therefore are looking for a minimum of two qualified candidates.

For the full list of duties, responsibilities, and requirements, please see the JCU employment site at Administrative / Staff Positions | University Jobs in Italy (johncabot.edu)

Certification of RID is required. Candidates must also have at least one of the following interpreting certifications at time of hire: CSC, CI&CT, NAD IV or V, NIC.

Note that this position requires a Partita IVA, and that all applicants must possess valid EU working documents in Italy. JCU cannot sponsor candidates for working visas in Italy for this position.

Email your (English only) CV and cover letter to employment@johncabot.edu with subject line ASL Interpreter. The positions will remain open until filled.

While we appreciate every application received, note that only short-listed applicants will be contacted.
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Weekly number of covid-19 cases in Italy drops for 10th week in a row.

Italy has seen a sharp decline in the number of hospital and intensive care admissions for covid-19 over the last 50 days, according to a report from the Gimbe Foundation, a public health think tank.

The study charts the falling hospital cases since the peak on 6 April, with hospitalisations down by almost 71 per cent and intensive care cases dropping by almost 65 per cent.

Since 6 April the number of people hospitalised in Italy for coronavirus has fallen from 29,337 to 8,557, while the number of those in intensive units has dropped from 3,743 to 1,323.

Gimbe president Nino Cartabellotta credits the collapse in hospitalisations with the vaccination of "the most advanced age groups," reports Italian news agency ANSA.

Comparing the data from 19-25 May with the previous week, the report found a further decrease in new covid cases (30,867 down from 43,795) and deaths (1,004 down from 1,215).

Hospitalisations with coronavirus also decreased over the same period: 8,557 cases compared to 11,539, and intensive care cases: 1,323 compared to 1,689, reports ANSA.

Cartabellotta also said that new weekly cases continue to drop, for the 10th consecutive week, a phenomenon the Gimbe president credits with the "reduced circulation of the virus" as well as a decrease in the number of tests being carried out.

"Compared to the previous week, in fact, there was a decrease of 12.2 per cent of people tested (-69.010) and of 24.9 per cent compared to two weeks ago (-165.241)," Cartabellotta said.

The data from Gimbe confirms downward covid trends throughout Italy, and in eight regions - Abruzzo, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Liguria, Molise, the autonomous province of Trento, Sardinia, Umbria and Veneto - the weekly incidence of cases is less than 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.

For official information relating to the covid-19 situation in Italy - in English - see the health ministry website.

Photo: Diners at Da Mario in Pigneto, Rome. Credit: znatalias / Shutterstock.com.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 23:29:35|Editor: huaxia

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ABUJA, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday appointed Major General Farouk Yahaya as the country's new army chief.

The military confirmed the appointment in an official statement. Prior to his appointment, Yahaya was the General Officer Commanding 1 Division of the Nigerian Army, said the statement by military spokesman Onyema Nwachukwu.

The new army chief is also the incumbent theater commander of the country's counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency military outfit code-named HADIN KAI in Nigeria's northeast region, he added.

Yahaya's appointment as army chief followed the death of his predecessor Ibrahim Attahiru in a plane crash in the northwestern state of Kaduna on Friday.

Attahiru and 10 others in his entourage were confirmed killed in the incident. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 23:32:41|Editor: huaxia

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LUSAKA, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Health authorities in Zambia said on Thursday that 61 people were denied entry as the country tightens its surveillance guidelines due to increased cases of COVID-19.

Kennedy Malama, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health for Technical Services said the strengthened surveillance at entry points resulted in the screening of over 6,000 travelers out of which 500 were placed under self-isolation while 61 were denied entry.

The health ministry has revised point of entry surveillance guidelines that require all travelers to produce SARS-COV-2 negative certificates.

He said during a COVID-19 update press briefing that the country was seeing an increase in the number of new daily cases mostly from social gatherings which are super spreaders.

He warned that the increased daily cases will put pressure on the country's health facility and health personnel as was experienced during the second wave.

"It is important that the reported variants of concern in our country are also going to have an impact on the evolution of the COVID-19 situation and we will continue with our routine genomic sequencing as part of the routine surveillance," he said.

The country recorded 320 new cases in the last 24 hours out of 6,988 tests. This brings the cumulative cases to 93,947 while 82 patients were discharged bringing the total recoveries to 91,321. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 23:36:27|Editor: huaxia

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LAGOS -- Nigerian police on Wednesday confirmed five bandits were killed in gun battles with law enforcement officers in the northwestern state of Katsina.

Another 15 were arrested during the encounters, and one suspect was nabbed for allegedly going into the forest to treat sick and wounded bandits, said state police spokesperson Gambo Isah in a statement. (Nigeria-Police-Bandits)

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LAGOS -- At least 26 persons have been confirmed dead and 98 others are still missing after a boat capsized on Wednesday in the River Niger in north Nigeria, the police said Thursday.

Adamu Usman, the police chief of Niger state, confirmed the figures to reporters at a press briefing in Minna, the state capital, adding the boat with 150 passengers capsized on Wednesday morning in the river while on its way to a market in neighboring Kebbi state from a village in Niger state. (Nigeria-Boat Capsize)

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KABUL -- Two people were wounded in a roadside bomb blast, targeting a provincial governor's vehicle in Afghanistan's eastern Nangarhar province on Thursday, the local government confirmed.

An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) was detonated when vehicle of Mohammad Iqbal Sayyed, governor of neighboring Kunar province, was passing a road in Nangarhar's Behsud district at the afternoon, the government said in a statement. (Afghanistan-Nangarhar-Blast)

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JAKARTA -- At least five people were killed and three others suffered minor injuries as a pier collapsed in Indonesia's province of West Sumatra on Wednesday night, local official confirmed on Thursday.

Provincial police spokesperson Stefanus Satake told local media that the accident took place at around 6:00 p.m. local time when 14 visitors, who were divided into two groups, were taking group photos at different spots on the pier. (Indonesia-Pier Collapse)

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YANGON -- A regional lawmaker of the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) was shot dead in Myanmar's southern Mon state on Thursday, the party said in a statement.

Chairman U Myint Swe of the USDP in Mon state, along with his wife, was shot by two gunmen in motorbike in Bilin township at 8:15 a.m. local time, the statement said. (Myanmar-Lawmaker-Shooting) Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 23:47:06|Editor: huaxia

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BEIRUT, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese caretaker Health Minister Hamad Hassan said Thursday that Lebanon will start exporting medicines to Iraq, the National News Agency reported.

Hassan explained following his meeting with officials from the Iraqi Health Ministry that Iraq will send lists of needed medicines to Lebanon.

He added that Lebanon will work on boosting the manufacturing of high quality medicines to be able to export to Iraq and other countries.

Lebanon and Iraq agreed earlier this year, during a visit of Iraqi Health Minister Hassan al-Tamimi to Lebanon, to form a joint team enabling the two countries to boost cooperation in the health field. Enditem
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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 23:59:48|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- China and Serbia on Thursday signed an agreement allowing mutual recognition and exchanges of the two country's driving licenses.

Under the new deal, people with driving licenses from one side can drive or apply for new licenses without taking tests in the other country. Travelers staying in the other country for less than a year will have their driving licenses mutually recognized.

The deal will come into effect three months after the two sides complete domestic legal confirmation procedures.

Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Public Security Zhao Kezhi and Serbia's Interior Minister Aleksandar Vulin signed the deal via video on behalf of the two governments. Enditem
A Perth police officer used excessive force when he put a young man in a chokehold, causing him to pass out and hit his head on the pavement, Western Australias corruption and crime watchdog has found.

During the 2019 arrest Senior Constable Valleenkanthan, whose first name has been withheld from the the Corruption and Crime Commission report, was found to have used Brazilian Jiu Jitsu restraining techniques that were not part of his police training and to have engaged in serious misconduct.

The constable was responding to a fight between two groups in an open-air carpark on Roe Street, in Northbridge, on November 10, 2019, when a woman became verbally abusive towards police.

Constable Valleenkanthan was arresting the woman for disorderly conduct when he noticed the young man, referred to in official documents as Mr A, recording the arrest with his mobile phone.
Labor campaigners are calling for an urgent change in the partys direction to address household concerns about costs and wages, adding to fears the party is sleepwalking to a federal election loss.

In a warning to Labor leader Anthony Albanese, local party figures in the NSW Hunter Valley said the partys loss at a state byelection last Saturday was a sign of a national challenge in winning back blue-collar voters.

Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese is facing concerns within his party about how to win over blue collar voters. Credit:Alex Ellighausen

Cessnock deputy mayor Darrin Gray said the party had to put Labor back into Labor by throwing more weight into policies to tackle household costs, wages and the day-to-day pressures on families.

Another long-standing Labor member, former Muswellbrook councillor Malcolm Ogg, said the federal caucus members had to decide what they stand for and give voters a clear message on policies such as climate change.
The coronavirus pandemic has not killed city working, the head of the Productivity Commission has proclaimed, while warning the cleansing effects of the recession have yet to fully work their way through the Australian economy.

Commission chief executive officer Michael Brennan, in a speech in Canberra, said the country could not simply try to rebuild the economy as it was in 2019, urging reforms in areas such as state planning regulations.

Productivity Commissioner Michael Brennan says the death of the CBD has been over-blown while warning more cleansing of the post-recession economy is likely. Credit:Louie Douvis

Despite the largest fall in economic activity since the 1930s, Australia has emerged from the coronavirus pandemic with unemployment at 5.5 per cent, house prices growing at their fastest rate in three decades while the number of firms forced into administration has fallen by almost a third.

Mr Brennan said the focus of government policy through the pandemic had been to hold things together, which had successfully kept a lid on unemployment while allowing businesses to remain operational.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-28 00:01:09|Editor: huaxia

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NAIROBI, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Kenya in the next two weeks will receive a loan of 750 million U.S. dollars from World Bank that were approved in 2019, the country's central bank governor Patrick Njoroge said on Thursday.

In May 2019, the World Bank approved the 750 million U.S. dollars credit from International Development Association, the World Bank arm that helps the world's poorest countries, to support the country's reforms in agriculture, housing, digital technology and fiscal management.

Njoroge told a virtual press conference that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is expected to complete the first review of a 38-month financing package under the Extended Fund Facility and Extended Credit Facility arrangements in June, which will lead to the disbursement of 410 million U.S. dollars.

Njoroge noted that the African Development Bank (AfDB) will also provide concessional financing to support Kenya in its COVID-19 response program.

According to the official, the external financing will help the East African nation reduce its current account deficit, which is expected to stand at 5.2 percent of the gross domestic product in 2021. Enditem
London: Chinas Foreign Minister Wang Yi says Western sanctions imposed over human rights violations made the superpower feel bullied by European imperialists as he told a German audience they knew what genocide looks like.

A senior Member of the European Parliament, German Reinhard Buetikofer, angrily hit back saying that using the holocaust as a diplomatic football was a reckless new low in Chinas wolf-warrior diplomacy.

Britain, Canada and the European Union imposed sanctions against Chinese officials in March over what the United States says is genocide perpetrated against Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang.

Chinas Foreign Minister Wang Yi, pictured in March in Ankara, said the sanctions made Chinese people think of when they were bullied by European imperialists in the past. Credit:Turkish Foreign Ministry.

China immediately retaliated by imposing sanctions on several British MPs and MEPs who belong to the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China.
From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free. So goes the catch-cry chanted by anti-Israel demonstrators around the globe over the past 10 days.

Let there be no doubt about what these words mean to the people who coined them. They do not represent a call by everyday Palestinians against what they view as unjust policies of Israel. Nor is it an appeal for a Palestinian homeland to be established as part of a two-state settlement.

The slogan is an aspirational bid for the state of Israel, which lies between the Jordan river on the east and the Mediterranean to the west, to be wiped off the map of the world.

A protest in support of Palestinians in London last Saturday. Credit:PA

To quote from the original Hamas charter: Israel will exist and will continue to exist until Islam will obliterate it just as it obliterated others before it ... The day of judgment will not come until Muslims fight the Jews and kill them.
On Saturday, families of more than 20 of the fallen soldiers were on hand for the unveiling of a memorial in Columbia Falls, Maine, to honor those who perished when the plane disappeared over the Pacific Ocean.
Sara Wells left her job at auto supplier Martinrea's Shelbyville, Ky. plant in May 2021 after enduring multiple layoff weeks. You cant be weeks without paychecks and knowing where youre going to pay your bills, where youre going get food and all that. So, a lot of people have been leaving and looking elsewhere, Wells said.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-28 00:03:42|Editor: huaxia

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KAMPALA, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Uganda's ministry of health on Thursday reported that there is an increase in the spread of COVID-19 in schools.

Henry Mwebesa, director-general of health services at the ministry told reporters here that as of May 18, more than 29 schools from 17 districts have recorded a total of 803 cases and one death.

The affected schools include 10 nursing schools, 11 secondary schools, 7 primary schools, one primary teachers college, and one tertiary institution. Mwebesa said some universities have reported cases and are under investigation.

"The main drivers of transmission in schools are overcrowding, non-adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and inadequate supervision of the learners," Mwebesa said.

"I want to appeal to the administrators of the schools to step up vigilance, identify sick learners/ teachers early, enforce adherence to SOPs and report promptly to the nearest health facility for any suspected cases," he added.

The ministry urged teachers who have not yet been vaccinated to go for the jab saying it is lifesaving.

The director said as the country grapples with the second wave of the pandemic, mainly affecting young people, the ministry is going to move the COVID-19 vaccines distributed countrywide to the most affected districts.

He said records show that a number of districts have not fully utilized the doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine that was allocated to them, yet the vaccine has a short shelf life and is due to expire on July 10.

Mwebesa said a committee of experts has recommended that unutilized vaccines from all districts be withdrawn as an emergency and given to the population most at risk.

"A district that demonstrates commitment to utilize the doses in their facilities with evidence of good progress may be considered to retain some vaccines vials," he said.

Uganda is currently urging its population to take the vaccine warning that the second wave is in its infancy. Since the country started the vaccination exercise in March, as of May 24, 537,440 people had been vaccinated. The country received its first 964,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine from the World Health Organization's COVAX initiative and the Indian government in March.

"Vaccination is viewed as a strong tool to prevent and control the pandemic and many countries worldwide are increasing their vaccination coverage on a daily basis in an attempt to interrupt COVID-19 transmission," he noted.

Mwebesa warned that unlike the first wave, when COVID-19 took the country 3-4 months to get full-blown, the second wave has taken less than 10 days to get blown.

"The intensity of severe and critically ill COVID-19 patients is higher than what we experienced in the first wave of the pandemic," Mwebesa said.

The ministry warned earlier in the week that isolation facilities and intensive care units were quickly filling up due to the surge in positive cases.

"It's obvious from our statistics that the number of cases and deaths are increasing. Our data shows that the most affected age group is 20-39 years old," said Mwebesa.

"The increase in the number of cases coupled with deaths is largely due to complacency in adhering to the COVID-19 public health prevention measures," he added.

As of Thursday, Uganda had registered a cumulative confirmed 44,594 COVID-19 cases, 43,401 recoveries, and 361 deaths since the first case was reported on March 21, 2020, in the country. Enditem
Jamie McAtee, the brother of David McAtee, speaks to protesters gathered Wednesday, May 26, 2021, at Jefferson Square Park in Louisville, Ky. (WDRB photo)
Indiana police officer returns to work after having to learn how to walk again
Milton-Madison Bridge over the Ohio River to be inspected next week
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-28 00:15:23|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, May 27 (Xinhua) -- China on Thursday urged the United States to immediately work with the World Health Organization (WHO) on COVID-19 origin tracing in a science-based way like China did.

Since the United States has repeatedly asked China to be part of a comprehensive, transparent and evidence-based international investigation, the United States should likewise fully respond to the concerns of the international community, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said at a press briefing.

Zhao said a research report of the joint WHO-China study had presented authoritative, formal and scientific conclusions, which stressed it is "extremely unlikely" that the virus was leaked from a Chinese laboratory.

The international expert team has made positive comments on China's open and transparent attitude on many occasions, he added.

However, some people in the United States have repeatedly called for a reinvestigation of China, ignoring the facts and science, as well as the questions surrounding their own traceability and their tragic failure in the COVID-19 fight, Zhao said.

This fully shows that the U.S. side doesn't care about the facts or the truth at all, and is not interested in serious scientific origin tracing, he added.

"Instead, they want to use the epidemic to stigmatise and engage in political manipulation, and to shift the blame," Zhao said.

They are being disrespectful to science, irresponsible to people's lives, and counter-productive to concerted global efforts to fight the virus, he added.

Pointing out that with over 33 million confirmed COVID-19 cases and 600,000 deaths from COVID-19, both the highest in the world, Zhao said the United Stated, instead of examining its own behavior, attempted to scapegoat China. "What are they up to? Can they sleep at night with a troubled conscience?" he asked.

"What secrets are hidden in the suspicion-shrouded Fort Detrick and the over 200 U.S. bio-labs all over the world? In July 2019, there were reports on the unexplained outbreaks of respiratory disease in northern Virginia and on the subsequent EVALI outbreaks in Wisconsin. What's hidden there? When will the United States release detailed data and information on relevant cases? " the spokesperson said, adding the United States owes an explanation to the world.

"The United States keeps saying that it wants 'China to participate in a full, transparent, evidence-based international investigation'. Then we ask it to follow China's example and immediately start science-based cooperation with WHO on study of origins, conduct a full, transparent, evidence-based international investigation in the United States, fully respond to international concerns, and contribute to mankind's early victory over the pandemic and better preparedness in the face of future public health emergencies," Zhao said.

Stressing the motive and purpose of the U.S.-driven "investigation" relying on its intelligence apparatus is crystal clear, Zhao said U.S. intelligence has a notorious track record, as the world has learned a long time ago.

Zhao noted that its masterpieces include the test tube of laundry powder which was cited as evidence for weapons of mass destruction and the staged "White Helmets" video. Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo even boasted, "I was the CIA director, we lied, we cheated, we stole. We had entire training courses. It reminds you of the glory of the American experiment."

"How can anyone trust the findings from an 'investigation' conducted by such an intelligence organ with no credibility to speak of?" Zhao added. Enditem
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Would you like fries with that? How about a free iPhone?

In an attempt to recruit and maintain new workers in a post-pandemic landscape, one McDonalds location (MCD) is hoping to attract potential employees with quite the technologically sound offer.

In a viral tweet that has now garnered over 226,000 likes, user @brogawd_ posted a photo of a headscratching sign outside of an Illinois McDonalds.

LMFAO G MCDONALDS IS STARVING pic.twitter.com/OJt4cjeTVn  Bragard (@brogawd_) May 23, 2021

Now hiring, free iPhone, the sign says. After 6 months employment and meet employment criteria.

Related: McDonald's Apologizes for Understaffing: 'Nobody Wants to Work Anymore'

Business Insider confirmed that the sign belonged to a restaurant located in in Altamont, Illinois.

People on the internet, however, were less than thrilled about the offer.

I was a manager at McDonalds, one user wrote. They had a thing where if you passed the secret shopper, the manager on the floor would get $100. I passed but since I had put in my two weeks, they said I didn't qualify for some dumb reason. They will absolutely switch up the qualifications on you

They could just offer livable wage instead of this theatrics, another said.

Related: What People Don't Realize About the McDonald's Strikes

The McDonalds (MCD) location hasnt commented on the sign or the promotion.

The new incentive comes at a time of turbulence between McDonalds and its employees.

This month, employees across 15 major cities in the U.S. staged a strike at select McDonalds locations to fight for raising the minimum wage to $15, after learning that the fast food titan made $5 billion in profit last year.

The company announced that it would begin to raise pay on an average of 10% for workers over the rest of the year, estimating that the average wage for company-owned restaurant employees would reach $15 per hour by 2024.

However, this does not include employees who work in franchisee-owned restaurants, which account for a whopping 95% of all McDonalds locations.

Many fast-food restaurants, like Wendys and IHOP, have been doubling down on digital models and promotions that encourage customers to order online or through an app, decentralizing the typical model of 1-1 customer to employee interaction.

McDonalds said it is looking to hire 10,000 new employees across its company-owned restaurants the next three months.

Related: McDonald's will raise the salaries of its staff, but only in the US and not all

Copyright 2021 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved
BRIDGEPORT  The former CEO of Bridgeport Hospital is headed back to the city, taking the top spot at one of that hospitals major competitors.

Hartford HealthCare announced Wednesday that William M. Jennings will join the system as president of its Fairfield Region, which includes St. Vincents Medical Center in Bridgeport. He will also be a system level vice president.

The job will officially begin July 19.

Vincent DiBattista, the current regional president, will continue to lead major system initiatives until his planned retirement in September 2022, Hartford HealthCare said.

Jennings, 53, said he was contacted about the impending opening by Jeffrey A. Flaks, Hartford HealthCares president and CEO.

He called out of the blue and shared the compelling vision of Hartford HealthCare expanding in Fairfield County, and I was interested, he said.

It will be a homecoming of sorts for Jennings who, from 2010 to 2018, was CEO of Bridgeport Hospital and executive vice president for Yale New Haven Health. In 2018, he left Connecticut to take a job as executive vice president of Tower Health  a seven-hospital system in southeastern Pennsylvania  and president and CEO of the systems flagship 714-bed Reading Hospital.

Jennings said his position at Tower hasnt yet been filled, but expects that to happen soon.

Before his leadership of Bridgeport Hospital, Jennings was president of SSM St. Mary's Health Center in St. Louis, a 582-bed teaching hospital, and president of the SSM St. Louis Heart Institute which served six hospitals.

Jennings has had executive positions with BayCare Health System in Florida and the Cookeville Regional Medical Center in Cookeville, Tenn.

DiBattista has led the Fairfield Region since it became part of Hartford HealthCare in October 2019.

Jennings said part of his goal when he takes on the position with Hartford HealthCare is to continue expanding the system into the Fairfield County area  an effort that began with the acquisition of St. Vincents.

He said hes excited to return to the area he called home for years.

I missed the people, Jennings said. I missed my friends. Theres so much I missed.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-28 00:22:41|Editor: huaxia

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RABAT, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Morocco's COVID-19 tally rose to 518,122 on Thursday as 314 new cases were registered during the past 24 hours.

The country's coronavirus death toll rose to 9,134 with three new fatalities during the last 24 hours, while 193 people are in intensive care units, according to a statement by the Ministry of Health.

The total number of recoveries from COVID-19 in Morocco increased to 506,208 after 147 new ones were added, the statement said.

The COVID-19 fatality rate in Morocco stands at 1.8 percent and the recovery rate at 97.7 percent.

Meanwhile, 8,301,031 people have received so far the first vaccine shot against COVID-19 in the country, and 5,113,091 people have received the second dose.

The North African country launched a nationwide vaccination campaign on Jan. 28 after the arrival of the first shipment of China's Sinopharm vaccines. Enditem
GREENWICH  The Greenwich Police Department has a new deputy chief  and the choice was unanimous.

Capt. Kraig Gray, a 30-year-veteran of the department, was approved as the new deputy chief of police at Thursday mornings Board of Selectmen meeting. He will be formally sworn in at a ceremony on June 14, but his promotion became official with the boards 3-0 vote.

I am happy to continue to serve the town of Greenwich in this capacity, Gray told Greenwich Time after the boards vote was official. Its a change of responsibility. Its a big role. Its critical to public safety. Im looking forward to it. I think I have something to contribute at this next level.

At the virtual meeting, First Selectman Fred Camillo praised Gray. He is very well liked, Camillo said. Hes a very hard worker. He knows the town inside and out, and I look forward to working with him in this position. Hes a good choice and were very excited to have him be deputy chief.

Chief of Police James Heavey called it an honor and a privilege to recommend Gray for the position. Gray was one of three internal finalists for the job, and town Director of Human Resources Mary Pepe told the selectmen that when it came to the outside candidates, no one even came close to all of our internal candidates.

Gray succeeds retiring Deputy Police Chief Mark Marino on the command staff and as head of the towns Parking Services Department.

Gray also spoke briefly at Thursdays meeting, thanking Heavey, Camillo and the entire Board of Selectmen for having confidence in me.

We look forward to even better things from you, Camillo told Gray after thanking him for his years of service to the town.

Selectwoman Lauren Rabin and Selectperson Jill Oberlander also supported Gray for the promotion. Rabin said Grays work in Parking Services will be critical to ongoing efforts to improve and enhance the downtown. Oberlander praised Grays philosophy of mission first, people always, which she said was indicative of the leadership at the Greenwich Police Department.

I know our town will be very well served, Oberlander said.

The June 14 ceremony will also include promotions within the department for a new captain, lieutenant and sergeant. Those details have not been announced.

During his 30-year career with the GPD, Gray has served in multiple positions, including as public information officer. As a captain, he supervised the Detective Division, and he was patrol commander in the past.

That experience gives Gray a vast knowledge and understanding of the workings of the Greenwich Police Department, Heavey said.

Gray is a U.S. Army Reserve veteran who retired with the rank of first sergeant. He served in the continental United States as well as in the Middle East, Germany and the Philippines. Gray joked that he has been around the world in a duffel bag.

Marino, who is an Army veteran, praised his successor, chiming in at the end of the meeting that it was an excellent choice to promote Gray.

Marino, who has been with the GPD since 1983 and has been deputy chief since 2012, marked his last day with the department on Thursday. He was honored with a special ceremony oThursday afternoon, and Camillo read a proclamation in his honor, noting that Marino ably served in many capacities and assignments during his career, including as commander of the GPD Special Response Unit, and praising his abilities and steady leadership.

Camillo declared June 1, 2021, which is when Marinos retirement becomes official, as Mark Marino Day in town. Marino said he appreciated the unexpected honor, and Heavey said that Gray had big shoes to fill while remarking it was a bittersweet day with Marino leaving.

kborsuk@greenwichtime.com
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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-28 00:27:05|Editor: huaxia

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Photo taken on May 27, 2021 shows the Kaposvar solar power plant in Kaposvar, Hungary. Hungary on Thursday inaugurated the country's largest solar power plant, which was built by China National Machinery Import and Export Corporation (CMC) near the southwestern city of Kaposvar. (Photo by Attila Volgyi/Xinhua)

BUDAPEST, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Hungary on Thursday inaugurated the country's largest solar power plant, which was built by China National Machinery Import and Export Corporation (CMC) near the southwestern city of Kaposvar.

The ceremony was attended by Hungary's Minister for Innovation and Technology Laszlo Palkovics on site and CMC Chairman Kang Hubiao via video hook-up.

"As I myself have been involved with this project from the beginning, and have visited Hungary several times over the years, today, as chairman, I am especially elated to see the completion of this project," said Kang, adding that he was sad to have to attend the ceremony online due to the pandemic-related travel restrictions.

According to Kang, the decision to build the 100-megawatt (MW) plant was made five years ago, in 2016.

"When we looked for the location for our future power plant, one of the key factors in our decision was to look for a reliable strategic partner, who will support the project, and will look at it as its own. We have found this partner in the Municipality of Kaposvar," he said.

Kang also thanked the Hungarian government for its support: "The government of Hungary was supportive of our goal from the start, even though our project with 100 MW capacity might have seemed too grandiose to some people back then, when the average size of a solar power plant was less than one MW. We are grateful that the government saw us as a trustworthy partner and helped us make this dream come true."

The supportive attitude of the Hungarian government dates back to 2010, Palkovics explained to Xinhua after the opening ceremony. "The Hungarian government introduced its 'Eastern Opening' policy in 2010 with China as its main actor," he said.

"One of the areas of cooperation between Hungary and China is environmentally friendly investments, such as the 100 MW solar power plant that we opened today," Palkovics said.

The minister recalled that Hungary as a European Union (EU) member state joined the European Green Deal in 2019, which states that the economy should be carbon-neutral by 2050.

The opening of the Kaposvar solar power plant is crucial to reaching this goal, as the production of electricity in Hungary should fully come from clean sources by 2030, Palkovics concluded.

The plant, worth around 100 million euros (122 million U.S. dollars), is expected to produce 130 million kilowatt-hours of electricity and help Hungary reduce its carbon-dioxide emissions by about 120,000 tonnes each year. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-28 01:05:17|Editor: huaxia

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MOGADISHU, May 27 (Xinhua) -- The international partners on Thursday welcomed the successful conclusion of the electoral talks between Somalia's federal government and regional state leaders which resulted in an agreement and urged them to organize elections right away.

The partners including the African Union, the European Union and the United Nations, among other countries, called on Somali leaders to resolve any future disputes through regular dialogue among the signatories of the Sept. 17, 2020 electoral model.

"We now urge all stakeholders to move forward swiftly to organize inclusive and transparent elections without delay," the partners said in a joint statement issued in Mogadishu.

The statement came a few hours after the country's Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble and leaders of five federal member states alongside governor of Banadir Regional Administration inked an agreement that will see the elections being held within 60 days.

The partners lauded efforts by Roble for his leadership of this process, as well as the regional leaders and other political figures who engaged constructively in the talks.

They also thanked President Mohamed Farmajo for his appeal on May 1 to revert to the consensus-based Sept. 17, 2020 pre-election model.

The political crisis was sparked on April 12 when the Somali Lower House of Parliament voted to extend the terms of the executive and the legislative arms of government despite stiff opposition from the international community and the Upper House leadership including opposition leaders.

The extension prompted fighting between pro-government and opposition supporters in the capital Mogadishu as well as in other parts of the country, amid worries that extremist group al-Shabab could exploit the divisions and stage more attacks in the country.

International partners expressed their readiness to support Somali leaders to implement this historic agreement.

Meanwhile, President Farmajo has also welcomed the deal and thanked his prime minister for spearheading the talks.

"I commend all parties involved in these talks, and in particular the Prime Minister Mohamed Roble for his invaluable contribution to the success of the conference and for his commitment to finalizing this agreement on this day," Farmajo said during the signing of the deal.

Farmajo whose four-year term officially ended on Feb. 8 and for months was unable to reach a truce on how to carry out the election with some of the regional states, said it was time to head to a credible electoral process and to avoid any actions that could be an obstacle to Somalia's stability and national elections.

"I am confident that the agreement reached today will enable us to hold a general election," he added.

Somalia on Dec. 1, 2020 missed a deadline to hold its parliamentary elections which were due to begin as agreed by the federal government and six regional states in September 2020.

Already, the current tenure of parliament has lapsed. Parliamentary and presidential elections were due to be held between December 2020 and February. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-28 01:54:08|Editor: huaxia

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CAIRO, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi arrived in Djibouti on Thursday to hold talks with his Djiboutian counterpart Ismail Omar Guelleh on regional issues and bilateral ties, said the Egyptian presidency.

It is the first visit ever by an Egyptian president to the Horn of Africa country.

The two leaders discussed the latest developments of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) built on the Nile River, said Egyptian presidential spokesman Bassam Rady in a statement.

Sisi and Guelleh agreed on "the importance of reaching a fair and balanced legal agreement on filling and operating the GERD in a way that achieves the interests of the three states, Egypt, Sudan and Ethiopia, and preserves regional stability," Rady added.

The Djiboutian president praised Egypt's role in reaching the recent truce between Gaza-ruling Hamas movement and Israel following 11 days of clashes, which left at least 243 Palestinians and 12 Israelis dead.

Both leaders agreed on the necessity of reviving the path of political settlement to reach a just, comprehensive and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in accordance with international references.

The talks also addressed ways of boosting bilateral relations between Cairo and Djibouti.

Guelleh highlighted the prospect for cooperation between the two countries in various fields, expressing his country's aspiration to increase the activity of the Egyptian private sector in Djibouti.

For his part, Sisi voiced Egypt's earnest desire to raise the level of bilateral relations between the two countries in all fields to the level of "strategic partnership," according to the Egyptian presidency. Enditem
Cyprus says people under 50 should use mRNA-based vaccines

Cypriot health authorities have advised people aged under 50 to use the Pfizer/BioNTech or Moderna vaccines that are based on the newer, mRNA technology
Israeli police say that an officer involved in shooting a Palestinian teen in the courtyard of her east Jerusalem home last week has been suspended pending an investigation
Williamson, WV (25661)

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-28 02:27:05|Editor: huaxia

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BAGHDAD, May 27 (Xinhua) -- The Iraqi parliamentary health committee on Thursday proposed gradually easing the COVID-19 restrictions and lifting the current partial curfew in stages.

Jawad al-Musawi, a member of the parliamentary health committee, told the official Iraqi News Agency (INA) that "the committee proposed to the Higher Committee for Health and National Safety to follow up the daily numbers of COVID-19 infections within 10 days before deciding to lift the partial curfew in two stages according to the epidemiological situation."

Under the recommendation, the first stage is to reduce the hours of the partial curfew, while the second stage will see the full lifting of the curfew if the daily COVID-19 infections drop to between 1,000 and 2,000 within 10 days.

The Iraqi Ministry of Health reported 4,611 new COVID-19 cases Thursday, raising the nationwide caseload to 1,186,309.

The ministry also confirmed 22 new deaths, bringing the death toll from the virus to 16,289, while the total recoveries in Iraq climbed by 4,059 to 1,098,199.

It also said 22,972 people were vaccinated against COVID-19 during the past 24 hours across the country, bringing the total number of doses administered in Iraq to 573,659.

Iraq has been pushing forward its vaccination drive since the drug authority approved the emergency use of China's Sinopharm vaccine and other COVID-19 vaccines. Enditem
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CHICAGO (AP)  Throughout the murder trial, prosecutors showed jurors the video seen countless times around the world of the white police officer killing a Black male. And when it was over, the jurors found the officer guilty of murder.

That was in 2018. Now, as former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin waits to be sentenced for killing George Floyd, its worth remembering what happened in Chicago after a jury convicted a white police officer in the shooting death of 17-year-old Laquan McDonald: The judge didn't follow prosecutors recommended 18-20 years behind bars. Former officer Jason Van Dyke got a more lenient sentence  and might be released from prison in about three years.

It's possible things have changed. Floyd's horrific death touched off mass protests and calls for police reform that have rippled across the U.S. and in Congress. Chauvin could end up the exception, with a sentence of 30 years behind bars, particularly after the judge who will sentence him agreed Chauvin had committed particular cruelty in Floyds death. But if history is any indication, a slam-dunk sentence is not guaranteed.

That was filmmaker Spike Lees point when, shortly after the verdict, he said on CNN that he started worrying as soon as I heard the judge would be the one (who) would be the one that handed out the sentence. The jury, he said, got it right, but we dont know what this judge (will decide).

Much has been written about how rare it is for a police officer to be charged for an on-duty killing. Philip Stinson, a Bowling Green University criminal justice professor who tracks police prosecutions, has found that since 2005, just 142 non-federal police officers have been charged with murder or manslaughter for on-duty shootings.

Chauvin is part of an even smaller roster of officers who have actually been convicted in on-duty killings: According to Stinson's count, Chauvin is just the eighth officer convicted of murder for an on-duty killing.

The officers convicted of murder for on-duty shootings were sentenced to an average of 16.4 years in prison, Stinson found. In comparison, the average sentence for a murder conviction in the United States was, just over 48.8 years as of 2018, according to a report released this year by the U.S. Department of Justices Bureau of Justice Statistics.

The average time they spend behind bars can be considerably less than that. Depending on the state, convicted felons can have as much as half their sentence lopped off if they behave themselves in prison. In Minnesota, the presumption is that defendants with good behavior will serve two-thirds of their sentences before they are released on parole.

What that means, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, is that the people who received decades-long sentences for murder or non-negligent manslaughter actually served an average of 17.8 years in state prison before they were released.

For police officers, it often translates to less than a decade behind bars. In Texas, for example, when a former Balch Springs police officer convicted of murder in the shooting death of an unarmed Black teenager was sentenced in 2018 to 15 years in prison, he knew hed be eligible for parole after serving 7.5 years.

That helps explain why in Illinois, Van Dyke's attorney sounded more like he'd won the case than lost it when the judge handed down what amounts to a three-year sentence.

He truly felt great. I mean, he was not just relieved, he was happy ... attorney Dan Herbert told reporters.

Under Minnesotas sentencing guidelines, Chauvin will only be sentenced for the most serious charge  second-degree murder  in Floyd's 2020 death. That meant that at the time Chauvin was convicted he faced a presumptive sentence of 12 1/2 years in prison, with the judge limited to sentencing him between 10 years and eight months to 15 years.

But in May, Judge Peter Cahill ruled that there Chauvin abused his authority as a police officer when he restrained Floyd in 2020 and that he treated Floyd with particular cruelty  aggravating factors that add much more more prison time.

The reasons why police officers seem to catch such a break at sentencing begin with one of the first things a prosecutor typically points to when asking for a stiff prison sentence: the defendants criminal history.

That, however, runs up against the reality that police officers rarely have any criminal history, for the simple reason that felony convictions get officers fired or prevent them from getting hired in the first place.

Sentences can go way up if someone has a felony record, said Robert Weisberg, a law professor at Stanford University and co-director of the Stanford Criminal Justice Center. Chauvin doesnt have that.

And there's another argument: Officers who otherwise have lived a lawful life can make a really strong argument that a long prison sentence isnt necessary to protect the public, that he ... wont be a threat to public safety, said Joseph McMahon, the special prosecutor who successfully prosecuted Van Dyke.

Chauvin, his attorneys can argue, won't commit a similar crime because he's no longer a police officer.

That's what a California judge said when he didnt follow a prosecutors request to sentence a former police officer convicted of involuntary manslaughter in a 2015 fatal shooting to four years in prison in favor of 180 days in jail and three years' probation.

He has absolutely no prior criminal record, the crime was committed because of very unusual, somewhat bizarre circumstances, which is very unlikely  in fact  will never occur again, Butte County Judge James F. Reilley said of former Paradise Police officer Patrick Feaster.

That doesnt mean prosecutors are defenseless, though.

During Van Dykes sentencing hearing, McMahon made sure the judge knew about his past, even if that past did not include any convictions.

I went through all the prior complaints against Jason Van Dyke and even though every one of was (determined to be) unfounded by Chicago Police, I found those individuals all across the country and had them testify about their experiences.

People like a Black man named Edward Nance. During Van Dyke's sentencing hearing, Nance tearfully recounted the day Van Dyke pulled him from his car, handcuffed him behind his back and dragged him to his squad car violently enough to rip rotator cuffs. Nance spoke of his constant physical pain, multiple surgeries, and anxiety and depression that more than a decade later made it impossible to sleep through the night.

That is the kind of witness available to Minnesota prosecutors if they wish, said McMahon.

___

Associated Press researcher Rhonda Shafner in New York contributed to this report.
HARTFORD  A smiling pack of a Democratic leaders of the General Assembly emerged from Gov. Ned Lamonts office late Wednesday afternoon, satisfied that most of their spending plans for the next two-year, $46-billion budget may come to fruition.

While it was a meeting focused on spending priorities, its the lawmakers proposed tax package that will be the point of intramural Democratic friction  if not combat  in the days before the June 9 legislative adjournment. Lamont is against his fellow Democrats new taxes on income and capital gains for the states wealthiest.

Both sides said the meeting was cordial and productive.

Well get this one in the end zone, Lamont told several reporters lingering outside his office. Everybody knows my position on taxes...We just talked about an honestly balanced budget; a budget that provides opportunity for folks who have been left behind and hardest-hit, especially over this last year, but really over this last generation as well; and to get this economy moving again, make it work for everybody.

Lamont said there were no final agreements on how money would be spent, but he was confident that he and legislative Democrats  who have a 97-54 majority in the House and a 24-12 edge in the Senate  will reach a deal, including a billion-dollar social justice fund. Well get there sooner than later, Lamont said.

We defined positions and I think we have a better understanding of where we are and where the governor is, said a deadpan Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney, D-New Haven. It was a productive meeting, said Speaker of the House Matt Ritter, D-Hartford. It was.

The Democratic plan includes $1.4 billion in taxes, mostly for the rich, that would help fund a variety of programs and tax cuts, including $600-per-child tax credits totaling $450 million; and a proposed tax on social-media advertising that would generate more than $300 million over the two years.

Also included in the pending proposal, which passed a key committee last month along party lines, is the extension of the states 10 percent surcharge on the corporate tax to raise $50 million a year; and a tax rebate for restaurants worth nearly $50 million during the first year of the biennium.

The levies on the states richest would include a new 2 percent surcharge on capital gains  bringing the total rate to 8.99 percent, to raise $262 million from those making half a million dollars a year or more, or $ million a year for joint filers. A new income tax surcharge would range from 0.7 percent for taxpayers making between $500,000 and $2 million. Those making $13 million a year or more would pay an additional 1.5 percent.

Lamont wants a highway use tax on heavy trucks would raise a projected $135 million over the biennium. Republicans and the trucking industry predict that if approved, consumers will be hit with the higher costs fort hauling goods.

Looney said taxes werent discussed on Wednesday.

Ritter said that higher payments for cities that host tax-exempt properties was front-and-center, along with higher payments for public schools and expanding the HUSKY healthcare program for those with lower incomes. We made that point very clear, Ritter said. Thats a key component for us and he heard us on that and well see what they come back with tomorrow. Lets fund our priorities, and when we get there, thats a good starting point.

Looney, who was first elected to the General Assembly in 1980, said the meeting was typical for the budget season.

The 90-minute session in Lamonts Capitol office included Melissa McCaw, who as secretary of the Office of Policy and Management is the governors budget chief. Lawmakers included House Majority Leader Jason Rojas and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff.

kdixon@ctpost.com Twitter: @KenDixon
Stephanie Kim / Hearst Connecticut Media

The Trackside Teen Center in Wilton recently had a Rising High School Freshman Information Night on Thursday, May 27 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Attendees at the event joined the centers freshmen, sophomore and upperclassman student panel for an open and candid discussion about the transition from middle school to high school. Prospective high school students asked questions about what they could expect.
Winchester, VA (22601)

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-28 05:03:22|Editor: huaxia

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GENEVA, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Delegates from the Gambia, Namibia, and Sierra Leone on Thursday thanked China at the ongoing 74th World Health Assembly (WHA) for its aid and support in their COVID-19 response.

"Technical experts were shared, and anti-pandemic specialities were provided for us by Senegal and the People's Republic of China. We thank these countries very much for their input," Ahmadou Lamin Samateh, Minister of Health of the Gambia, said at the virtual meeting.

China sent medical experts in late 2020 to the Gambia on a three-month mission to assist the West African country's fight against COVID-19, and Chinese entrepreneurs also donated medical supplies to the country during the early stage of the pandemic.

"Namibia is grateful to the People's Republic of China and the Republic of India, who are the first to donate vaccines to Namibia ... Namibia acknowledges the efforts of the COVAX Facility to ensure equitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines to countries around the world who would otherwise not have access," said the Namibian delegate.

Namibia received the first batch of vaccines on March 17 from Chinese pharmaceutical firm Sinovac as well as Covishield vaccines from India on March 20.

"Sierra Leone was fortunate to receive 240,000 doses of the Sinopharm vaccine generously donated by the People's Republic of China," said the country's Minister of Health and Sanitation Austin Demby.

Sierra Leone kicked off its mass vaccination campaign on March 15 after receiving vaccines from China, and AstraZeneca vaccines through the WHO-led COVAX Facility.

The 74th WHA continued on Thursday with delegates debating on subjects such as the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases, treatments for cancer and rare diseases, action on patient safety, and antimicrobial resistance.

The assembly is scheduled to close on June 1. Enditem
Some assembly required.

Thats what real estate agent Steve Hunt-Lesage had in mind in late 2017 when he began investigating dinner options that would save him a few minutes in the kitchen. Hunt-Lesage, also a Red Seal chef, knew precisely what he was looking for: pre-packaged ingredients such as dried pasta or brown rice that arrived with a few, requisite spices, to which he could add a protein of his choosing along with a can of tomato sauce or coconut milk; a gourmet-style entree that would take 25 minutes to whip up, tops.

"You know, like Hamburger Helper, only good Hamburger Helper," the 55-year-old married father of three says with a chuckle.

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Steve Hunt-Lesage, who last toiled in a restaurant in 2005, is putting his real estate career on hold for the foreseeable future to devote his full attention to Fat Iguana Chefs Kitchen

Four-and-a-half-years later, Hunt-Lesage, who last toiled in a restaurant in 2005, is putting his real estate career on hold for the foreseeable future to devote his full attention to Fat Iguana Chefs Kitchen, the meal-starter biz he founded in August 2018.

"It all started with me going to the grocery store and spotting nothing but Kraft Dinner or those yucky noodle packs," he says, pursing his lips. "My first thought was, Man, is this ever stupid. My second thought was, Hey, wait a sec, I know how to cook. Why dont I just do it myself?"

Born Steven Hunt in Ipswich, England, Hunt-Lesage, who added his wife Sylvies surname to his own after they were married in 1997, moved to Winnipeg with his parents and sister at the age of five. He developed an interest in cooking during home economics class at John Taylor Collegiate, eventually parlaying that into a part-time job at Assiniboia Downs where he prepared race-day meals for jockeys and trainers. Stints at various, casual restaurants followed  Country Kitchen is one that immediately springs to mind  before he packed his bags and headed west at the age of 20 to take a job as a sous chef at the Lake Louise Inn in Alberta.

He spent the next five years bouncing back and forth between Winnipeg, Lake Louise and later, Banff, before successfully applying for a position as a line cook at the Mondetta Cafe, an offshoot of the sportswear company that opened at The Forks to tremendous fanfare in March 1995. To say his first day on the job was memorable is putting it mildly.

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Fat Iguana Chefs Kitchen spices.

"The place was pure pandemonium, the busiest restaurant Id ever worked at to that point," he says of Mondetta, situated in the Johnson Terminal in a space currently occupied by the Old Spaghetti Factory. "Im a pretty organized guy, thats always been one of my strong suits, but after six hours of non-stop chaos, I approached the boss, Dale Wallis, who back then was also responsible for the Grapes chain. Sorry, I told him, the job wasnt for me."

The two ended up chatting for the next 90 minutes. During their back-and-forth Hunt-Lesage offered a few suggestions that, in his estimation, would make things operate more smoothly. At the end of their conversation Wallis made Hunt-Lesage a proposition: instead of line cook, how would he like to manage the joint?

"There I was, on my way out the door, and the next thing I knew I was in charge," he says, running his hand over his bald pate.

Hunt-Lesage and Wallis enjoyed additional success at their next joint endeavour, the Spotlight, which replaced the iconic Beefeater Restaurant in Osborne Village. Following that he helped open the Coyote Cafe in the East Exchange District, but when he sold his share of that venture in 1999, he was convinced his restaurant days were behind him. Two years married, he and Sylvie had mutually agreed to move to Kelowna, B.C., where they intended to establish a small home-reno company, woodworking being another of his passions.

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Hunt-Lesage barbecues a steak on his deck.

A funny thing happened on the way to their new, Love-It-or-List-It existence, however; while in-line skating along that citys Lakeshore Boulevard, Hunt-Lesage spotted a For Sale sign in the window of a mothballed coffee shop. Telling himself, hmm, its only a block from the beach, maybe he could do something there, he called the listed number. Boom, just like that, he was the new owner of what he dubbed the Fixx Cafe & Pasta Bar, when it opened for business four months later.

"It was a cool little place, just 35 seats with all these great, Pacific-fusion dishes coming out of the kitchen, very similar to what Id done at Mondetta, plus a few Granville (Island) beers on tap. Right from Day 1 we were slammed, it was that busy," he says.

Everything was going along swimmingly, but after the birth of their first child, Sylvie, one of 20 siblings, announced she was homesick and didnt want their kids growing up so far away from their grandparents and cousins.

Quite often when he was cooking or serving, Hunt-Lesage would notice real estate agents in the dining area, sealing deals over a 12-ounce sirloin and bottle of wine. That looked a lot more relaxing than what he was doing, hed think, so as soon as they returned to Winnipeg, he began studying for his real estate licence. Which brings us back to August 2018, when, as a successful agent, Hunt-Lesage rolled out Fat Iguana Chefs Kitchen for the first time, at a night market held near Assiniboia Downs.

"My poor family, they probably ate pasta every night for eight months straight, while I was fine-tuning my recipes," he says, mentioning California Coast pasta, a curry-based offering that calls for chicken and shrimp, and Jamaican Jerk Rasta Pasta, a spicy number requiring chicken, peppers and eggplant, as two of his first offerings, both of which go back to his days at Mondetta and the Fixx.

Fat Iguana Chefs Kitchen presently markets more than 30 products, including salad dressings, barbecue sauces, meat rubs and hot sauces.

"What we do isnt so much cooking as production-line work," he continues, explaining his modus operandi. "We rent space in a commercial kitchen in La Salle, where were able to bang out close to 100 meal kits an hour."

After bagging the pasta or rice, if thats whats called for, he and his team  OK... him, his son and youngest daughter  go from bag to bag with ramekins filled with spices, adding however many grams to each, over and over. If something like his One Night in Bangkok Thai soup calls for a dozen different blends, well, thats 12 trips around the work area before they move onto the next batch, he notes.

Fat Iguana Chefs Kitchen  a tag inspired by trips to Mexico, where Hunt-Lesage would spot the plump reptiles contentedly munching away on fruit  presently markets more than 30 products, including salad dressings, barbecue sauces, meat rubs and hot sauces.

Everything can be ordered through his website, while certain products are also available at various retail outlets, including all four Millers Meats locations. (He laughs, describing how, back when his personal cell number was printed on the packaging, he often fielded calls from consumers standing in a grocery-store aisle, asking for reminders of what additional ingredients they needed to pick up for this kit or that.)

He figures he sold close to 15,000 meal kits, priced from $6.99 to $10.49, in 2020, his most successful year yet. He chalks up his good fortune to people wanting to prepare restaurant-quality meals in the comfort of their own homes, given the fact they were unable to dine out the way they normally would have because of pandemic-related restrictions. He expects to match or surpass that total this year, the reason hes stepping away from the real estate game for 12 months, at least.

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS A selection of Fat Iguana Chefs Kitchen's meal-starter kits.

"Just the other day I warned my wife I needed to spend the next two weeks fishing because the way things are shaping up, Im not going to have any time to cast a line the rest of the summer," he says, adding hes pretty confident markets and pop-up events hes attended in the past will be up and running once the majority of Manitobans are vaccinated.

As for his signature dishes, do customers ever take full credit for whats on an evenings menu, imparting a line: "Oh, puh-leeze, just a little something I threw together at the last moment," when guests or family members inquire, "Wow, where is this from?" while theyre diving into a plate of spicy bacon Amatriciana or Louisiana jambalaya?

"Ha, for sure they do, except I encourage them to do precisely that. No worries, I tell em. Their secret is safe with me."

For more information, go to www.fatiguanakitchen.com

david.sanderson@freepress.mb.ca
MARIETTA, Ga. (AP)  Atlanta philanthropist and businessman A.D. Pete Correll, known for leading one of Georgias biggest companies and helping to save Atlantas public hospital, has died. He was 80.

MARIETTA, Ga. (AP)  Atlanta philanthropist and businessman A.D. Pete Correll, known for leading one of Georgias biggest companies and helping to save Atlantas public hospital, has died. He was 80.

The Rev. Tony Sundermeier of First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta confirmed the death to The Associated Press. Correll died Tuesday at his home in Atlanta after a brief illness, Sundermeier said. Correll, a lifelong Presbyterian, was one of the churchs elders.

FILE - In this Jan. 14, 2005 file photo, Georgia-Pacific Corp. Chairman and CEO A.D. Pete Correll addresses a news conference in New York. Correll, known for leading one of Georgias biggest companies and helping to save Atlantas public hospital, has died. Correll died Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at his home in Atlanta after a brief illness. (AP Photo/Richard Drew, File)

Pete Corrells impact on our state will be felt for generations to come," Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said Thursday.

Correll was one of the most visionary and influential philanthropists in the city and was instrumental in revitalizing Grady Memorial Hospital during a time when there were fears it could close because of financial woes, the church said in announcing the death.

He served on numerous non-profit boards, and he lived his faith in ways that made us all better, the church announcement said.

Correll was a Brunswick, Georgia, native who later moved to Atlanta and worked in paper mills before joining paper and materials manufacturer Georgia-Pacific in 1988, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

I had always had a very simple premise in my life that I might not be smarter than anybody else, but I can outwork anybody, he said in a 2014 talk at Kennesaw State University in Atlantas northwest suburbs.

He rose to chairman and CEO of Georgia-Pacific in 1993. He later negotiated a $21 billion sale of the company to Kansas-based Koch Industries.

Pete was a transformational leader in Georgia-Pacifics 93-year history and his impact on the company is immeasurable and still with us today," the company's current president and CEO, Christian Fischer, said in a statement.

As a civic leader and philanthropist, Correll left a lasting imprint on many Atlanta institutions. He was co-chair of a commission in 2003 that led to the renaming of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to honor the citys first Black mayor, Maynard Jackson.

Petes impact on Atlanta, Brunswick and the entire state of Georgia was monumental," Fischer said. His service to many of the state's institutions such as Grady, the University of Georgia and Emory University will benefit Georgians for many years to come, he said.

Correll is survived by his wife, Ada Lee; their daughter Elizabeth Richards and son Alston.

A celebration of life is planned for June 2 at First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The chief executives of the nations largest banks went in front of Congress for a second day Thursday, facing questions ranging from inflation to their efforts to keep Americans in their homes after government aid to pandemic-hit mortgage holders expires this summer.

This image from video provided by the House Financial Services Committee shows JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon being sworn in to testify virtually to the House Financial Services Committee Thursday, May 27, 2021. (House Financial Services Committee via AP)

WASHINGTON (AP)  The chief executives of the nations largest banks went in front of Congress for a second day Thursday, facing questions ranging from inflation to their efforts to keep Americans in their homes after government aid to pandemic-hit mortgage holders expires this summer.

The House hearing comes after senators on Wednesday questioned the six CEOs on topics including climate change, voting rights and racial inequities. House members spent much of Thursday's hearing asking detailed industry policy questions.

This was the second hearing Rep. Maxine Waters, D-California and chairwoman of the House Financial Services Committee, has held with the big bank CEOs since Democrats took control of the House in 2019. In the earlier hearing, many of the same CEOs were questioned about their commitments to diversity and about the fees they charge customers.

Waters focused most of her questioning on the potential tide of foreclosures this summer once government aid programs come to an end. There are still roughly 2 million homes in some sort of forbearance, which is down significantly from the height of the pandemic but still involves millions of struggling families.

I want commitments from all of you that these people are not going to lose their homes, Waters said.

This image from video provided by the House Financial Services Committee shows Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan testifying virtually to the House Financial Services Committee Thursday, May 27, 2021. (House Financial Services Committee via AP)

In response, the bank CEOs who have mortgage businesses  Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citigroup and JPMorgan Chase  all said they planned to continue offering flexibility to borrowers even past the expiration date.

The CEOs are appearing as the U.S. economy is recovering from the recession triggered by the coronavirus pandemic. Big banks profits surged in the first three months of this year as the recovery has taken hold. They were able to release billions of dollars from their reserves originally set aside in the early days of the pandemic last year for potential losses on their loans.

The banking industry, which was blamed for the Great Recession more than a decade ago, has spent most of 2020 and this year stressing its efforts to work with borrowers and businesses. Banks across the country waived fees and put millions of mortgages into forbearance to shore up Americans distressed finances in the pandemic.

CEOs like JPMorgan's Jamie Dimon, Goldman Sachs' David Solomon and Bank of America's Brian Moynihan all came to the hearing sharing similar comments they made at Wednesday's hearing  that the industry is here to help through the pandemic and that the banking system is strong. One new face in front of Congress compared to 2019 is Jane Fraser, the new CEO of Citigroup and the first woman to run a Wall Street firm.

Republicans focused much of their questioning on issues related to U.S. competitiveness with China, rising levels of government debt, as well as the issue of banks choosing not to provide financing to coal companies, gun manufacturers or other controversial industries.

Your actions would shut down legal American businesses. I would say your actions are not working to advance the economy but actively working against it, said Missouri Republican Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer.

Goldman Sachs' Solomon said that industries like coal are legacy industries but banks will be there to help those companies transition into new technologies.

There will be new technologies that will create new, even better paying jobs, something that America has always led in, he said.

Luetkemeyer and other Republicans also pushed on the fact that many of these big banks actively seek to do business in China, which has been accused of numerous human rights violations.

Several members on Congress also asked the CEOs about inflation. Trillions of dollars have been spent under former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden to combat the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. The economic recovery is well underway, but prices for things such as lumber, steel and gasoline have risen sharply in recent months.

When asked whether inflation is an issue, JPMorgan's Dimon said that inflation was heating up, but we are not boiling yet. Solomon echoed the comments from Dimon, saying that the economy was not overheating yet but I would be cautious.

The CEOs were also asked for their opinion on digital currencies like Bitcoin, which have soared in value the past 18 months, but recently have been extremely volatile. The currencies have also been used in criminal activities, like the ransomware attack on a East Coast pipeline company earlier this month.

My own personal view is it's nothing like a fiat currency, it's nothing like gold. Buyer beware," Dimon said bluntly.
LUNENBURG, N.S. - Three levels of government are providing funding to help promote the 100th anniversary of the launch of the Bluenose schooner in Nova Scotia.

The Bluenose is shown in this 1921 archival photo.Three levels of government are providing an injection of funding to help promote the 100th anniversary of the launch of the Bluenose schooner in Nova Scotia. THE CANADIAN PRESS/National Archives of Canada, W.R. MacAskill

LUNENBURG, N.S. - Three levels of government are providing funding to help promote the 100th anniversary of the launch of the Bluenose schooner in Nova Scotia.

Ottawa, the province and the Town of Lunenburg, N.S., have allocated a total of $190,900 to the Lunenburg Marine Museum Society to present a series of virtual and socially distanced events commemorating the centennial.

Famed for her racing exploits, the fishing schooner  which is engraved on a side of the Canadian 10-cent coin  has long been a symbol of the province's seafaring traditions.

The schooner was built at the Smith and Rhuland Shipyard in Lunenburg, located about 100 kilometres west of Halifax, and launched on March 26, 1921, going on to win races for 17 years.

Events will run until the end of October and include the Bluenose 100 Lunenburg Show presented by the Royal Canadian Air Force Snowbirds on Aug. 25.

Ottawa is contributing $89,600 through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and $76,300 through Canadian Heritage, while the province is providing $20,000 through its Communities, Culture and Heritage Department, and the Town of Lunenburg is investing $5,000.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 27, 2021.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP)  Two groups representing online companies sued Florida on Thursday over a new law that seeks to punish large social media businesses like Facebook and Twitter if they remove content or ban politicians.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP)  Two groups representing online companies sued Florida on Thursday over a new law that seeks to punish large social media businesses like Facebook and Twitter if they remove content or ban politicians.

Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill Monday that will allow the state to fine large social media sites if they inactivate a statewide politician's account and will let any Floridian sue those companies if they feel like they've been treated unfairly.

NetChoice, a lobbying firm that represents Twitter, Facebook and other online companies, and the Computer and Communications Industry Association sued, saying the law violates First Amendment rights.

The suit filed in the U.S. District Court in Tallahassee says the law prevents companies from protecting users, advertisers and the public from pornography, terrorist incitement, false propaganda created and spread by hostile foreign governments, calls for genocide or race-based violence, disinformation regarding Covid-19 vaccines, fraudulent schemes, egregious violations of personal privacy, counterfeit goods and other violations of intellectual property rights, bullying and harassment, conspiracy theories denying the Holocaust or 9/11, and dangerous computer viruses.

DeSantis attacked Big Tech during a press conference to sign the bill, comparing it to Big Brother in the George Orwell novel 1984. He said internet companies are censoring posts that don't fit with the ideology of Silicon Valley.

Responding to Twitter and Facebook blocking former President Donald Trump, Republicans across the country have attacked social media companies for what they say is censorship of conservative ideology. While similar bills have been filed in other states, DeSantis was the first governor to sign one into law.

The governor's office defended the new law, saying Big Tech companies discriminate on political and ideological line and the law protects Floridians constitutional rights.

Big Tech is in some ways more powerful than government, and certainly less accountable. Free speech is a sacred right for all Americans. It is recognized that government has a role in protecting consumers against discrimination and deceptive/unfair trade practices, and this law is within that authority to rein in a powerful entity that oversteps individuals free speech rights, DeSantis spokeswoman Taryn Fenske said in an email.

The law that goes into effect July 1 calls for a $250,000 a day fine if a statewide political candidate's account is inactivated and $25,000 a day if they remove an account of someone running for a local office.

The law will give Floridas attorney general authority to sue companies under the states Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act. It will also allow individual Floridians to sue social media companies for up to $100,000 if they feel theyve been treated unfairly.

The law targets social media platforms that have more than 100 million monthly worldwide users, which include online giants as Twitter and Facebook. But lawmakers carved out an exception for Disney and their apps by including that theme park owners wouldnt be subject to the law.

The law will require large social media companies to publish standards on how it decides to censor, deplatform, and shadow ban.

Even before the lawsuit was filed, experts questioned whether it would be enforceable.

Federal law prevents internet companies from being sued for removing posts and federal law trumps state law when there is a conflict.

Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act exempts websites from being sued for removing content deemed to be obscene, lewd, lascivious, filthy, excessively violent, harassing, or otherwise objectionable as long as the companies are acting in good faith.

By constraining digital services ability to fight bad actors online, this law threatens to make the Internet a safe space for criminals, miscreants, and foreign agents, putting Floridians at risk," Computer and Communications Industry Association President Matt Schruers said in a press release. "Gov. DeSantis is correct that this is a free speech issue: a digital service that declines to host harmful content is exercising its own First Amendment rights.
LONDON (AP)  Oxford University is launching an effort to bring together academic, industry and government experts from around the world to use the lessons learned from COVID-19 in the fight against future pandemics.

LONDON (AP)  Oxford University is launching an effort to bring together academic, industry and government experts from around the world to use the lessons learned from COVID-19 in the fight against future pandemics.

The Pandemic Sciences Centre will unite Oxford researchers in disciplines ranging from immunology and public health to computing and social sciences in an effort to improve the rapid identification of and response to emerging threats, the university said in a statement released Friday.

The center will seek to form partnerships with experts around Britain and in other countries, in hope of avoiding the disjointed policies and international competition that slowed the response to COVID-19.

The reality is this was a bad pandemic, but it was nowhere near as bad as it could have been, John Bell, the Regius professor of medicine at Oxford University, told the Associated Press. And I think the imperative to get ourselves better organized for a whole range of potential pandemics is now going to be apparent to everybody.

Oxford scientists, who have been studying global infectious diseases for decades, were at the forefront of developing the COVID-19 vaccine that is being manufactured by AstraZeneca, the second to win authorization for widespread use around the world. They also were behind research that showed that a cheap, widely available steroid could reduce deaths by up to one third in severely ill patients, and were instrumental in setting up the Lighthouse Labs used to ramp up Britains coronavirus testing capacity.

Oxford hopes to raise 500 million pounds ($710 million) from philanthropists, industry and governments over the next few months to fund the center.

Weve done a lot of the heavy lifting in the pandemic, Bell said. And I think globally were probably some steps ahead of other universities in America and Europe and so on, in terms of what weve contributed.

Peter Horby, a professor of emerging infectious diseases at Oxford and the centers inaugural director, said the pandemic has shown that an alliance of science, the public sector and industry can create spectacular advances.

But it should not take a pandemic to make this happen, he said in the statement. This level of innovation and multi-sectoral collaboration must be applied, day in and day out, to prevent another catastrophe like Covid-19.
INDIANAPOLIS (AP)  The inaugural harvest of genetically modified salmon began this week after the pandemic delayed the sale of the first such altered animal to be cleared for human consumption in the United States, company officials said.

In this image provided by AquaBounty Technologies Inc., company CEO Sylvia Wulf, poses for a photo with processing associates Skyler Miller, back left, and Jacob Clawson with genetically modified salmon from the company's indoor aquaculture farm, Wednesday, May 26, 2021, in Albany, Ind. These are the first such altered animal to be cleared for human consumption in the United States. (AquaBounty Technologies vis AP)

INDIANAPOLIS (AP)  The inaugural harvest of genetically modified salmon began this week after the pandemic delayed the sale of the first such altered animal to be cleared for human consumption in the United States, company officials said.

Several tons of salmon, engineered by biotech company AquaBounty Technologies Inc., will now head to restaurants and away-from-home dining services  where labeling as genetically engineered is not required  in the Midwest and along the East Coast, company CEO Sylvia Wulf said.

Thus far, the only customer to announce it is selling the salmon is Samuels and Son Seafood, a Philadelphia-based seafood distributor.

AquaBounty has raised its faster-growing salmon at an indoor aquaculture farm in Albany, Indiana. The fish are genetically modified to grow twice as fast as wild salmon, reaching market size  8 to 12 pounds (3.6 to 5.4 kilograms)  in 18 months rather than 36.

The Massachusetts-based company originally planned to harvest the fish in late 2020. Wulf attributed delays to reduced demand and market price for Atlantic salmon spurred by the pandemic.

The impact of COVID caused us to rethink our initial timeline ... no one was looking for more salmon then," she said. We're very excited about it now. Weve timed the harvest with the recovery of the economy, and we know that demand is going to continue to increase.

Although finally making its way to dinner plates, the genetically modified fish has been met by pushback from environmental advocates for years.

FILE - This Wednesday, June 19, 2019 file photo shows the first batch of bioengineered Atlantic salmon eggs in an incubation tray at AquaBounty Technologies' facility in Albany, Ind. Peter Bowyer, the facility manager at AquaBounty Technologies, holds one of the last batch of conventional Atlantic salmon raised at the commercial fish farm in Albany, Ind. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy, File)

The international food service company Aramark in January announced its commitment to not sell such salmon, citing environmental concerns and potential impacts on Indigenous communities that harvest wild salmon.

The announcement followed similar ones by other major food service companies  Compass Group and Sodexo  and many large U.S. grocery retailers, seafood companies and restaurants. Costco, Kroger, Walmart and Whole Foods maintain that they dont sell genetically modified or cloned salmon and would need to label them as such.

The boycott against AquaBounty salmon has largely come from activists with the Block Corporate Salmon campaign, which aims to protect wild salmon and preserve Indigenous rights to practice sustainable fishing.

Genetically engineered salmon is a huge threat to any vision of a healthy food system. People need ways to connect with the food theyre eating, so they know where its coming from," said Jon Russell, a member of the campaign and a food justice organizer with Northwest Atlantic Marine Alliance. These fish are so new  and theres such a loud group of people who oppose it. That's a huge red flag to consumers.

Wulf said shes confident there's an appetite for the fish.

Most of the salmon in this country is imported, and during the pandemic, we couldnt get products into the market, Wulf said. So, having a domestic source of supply that isnt seasonal like wild salmon and that is produced in a highly-controlled, bio-secure environment is increasingly important to consumers.

AquaBounty markets the salmon as disease- and antibiotic-free, saying its product comes with a reduced carbon footprint and none of the risk of polluting marine ecosystems like traditional sea-cage farming carries.

Despite their rapid growth, the genetically modified salmon require less food than most farmed Atlantic salmon, the company says. Biofiltration units keep water in the Indiana facilitys many 70,000-gallon (264,979-liter) tanks clean, making fish less likely to get sick or require antibiotics.

The FDA approved the AquAdvantage Salmon as safe and effective in 2015. It was the only genetically modified animal approved for human consumption until federal regulators approved a genetically modified pig for food and medical products in December.

In 2018, the federal agency greenlit AquaBountys sprawling Indiana facility, which is currently raising roughly 450 tons (408 metric tons) of salmon from eggs imported from Canada but is capable of raising more than twice that amount.

But in a shifting domestic market that increasingly values origin, health and sustainability, and wild over farmed seafood, others have a different view of the salmon, which some critics have nicknamed Frankenfish.

Part of the domestic pushback revolves around how the engineered fish is to be labeled under FDA guidelines. Salmon fishermen, fish farmers, wholesalers and other stakeholders want clear labeling practices to ensure that customers know they're purchasing an engineered product.

USDA labeling law directs companies to disclose genetically-modified ingredients in food through use of a QR code, an on-package display of text or a designated symbol. Mandatory compliance with that regulation takes full effect in January, but the rules dont apply to restaurants or food services.

Wulf said the company is committed to using genetically engineered labeling when its fish are sold in grocery stores in coming months.

In November, U.S. District Judge Vince Chhabria in San Francisco affirmed that the FDA had the authority to oversee genetically engineered animals and fish. But he ruled that the agency hadn't adequately assessed the environmental consequences of AquaBounty salmon escaping into the wild.

The company argued that escape is unlikely, saying the fish are monitored 24 hours a day and contained in tanks with screens, grates, netting, pumps and chemical disinfection to prevent escape. The companys salmon are also female and sterile, preventing them from mating.

Our fish are actually designed to thrive in the land-based environment. That's part of what makes them unique, Wulf said. And were proud of the fact that genetically engineered allows us to bring more of a healthy nutritious product to market in a safe, secure and sustainable way."

Casey Smith is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-28 05:11:21|Editor: huaxia

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Huge crowds of Assad supporters gather at the Umayyad Square in Damascus, Syria, on May 27, 2021. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has won his fourth seven-year term in the 2021 presidential race, the Syrian parliament announced on Thursday. (Xinhua)

DAMASCUS, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has won his fourth seven-year term in the 2021 presidential race, the Syrian parliament announced on Thursday.

Hamoudeh Sabbagh, the parliament speaker, said that Assad won 95.1 percent of the vote as opposed to 88.7 percent in the 2014 election.

He said that about 14 million of the estimated 18 million eligible voters inside and outside Syria cast their votes, with a turnout rate of 78.64 percent.

Huge crowds of Assad supporters filled the Umayyad Square, the main square in the Syrian capital of Damascus, to celebrate Assad's win, waving Syrian flags and posters of Assad, while national music was blaring from loudspeakers.

Banners supporting Assad adorned the square and main streets in the capital.

Assad's win was largely anticipated as his competitors in the race are a low-profile opposition figure and a former cabinet minister.

The election was held on Wednesday with the polling stations open until midnight.

The Syrian government has been encouraging voters to cast their votes for the "future of Syria."

On July 17, 2000, Assad succeeded his father Hafez al-Assad as the Syrian president. Under the current Syrian constitution adopted in 2012, the president of Syria has the right to run for office twice, which means that this would be Assad's last term in office. Enditem
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden on Thursday warned naysayers in Congress not to get in the way of his big infrastructure plans as the White House panned a counteroffer from Republican senators to tap unused COVID-19 relief for a more modest investment in roads, highways and other traditional public works projects.

President Joe Biden puts on his sunglasses after speaking to members of the media before boarding Air Force One for a trip to Cleveland, Thursday, May 27, 2021, in Andrews Air Force Base, Md. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden on Thursday warned naysayers in Congress not to get in the way of his big infrastructure plans as the White House panned a counteroffer from Republican senators to tap unused COVID-19 relief for a more modest investment in roads, highways and other traditional public works projects.

After touring a manufacturing technology center at a community college in Cleveland, Biden held up a card with the names of Republicans lawmakers who had rejected his coronavirus aid bill in Washington but later promoted its assistance when they were back home in front of voters. He warned them not to play similar games as he pushes this next legislative priority in Congress.

Im not going to embarrass anyone, but I have here a list," he said. If youre going to take credit for what weve done, he continued, dont get in the way of what we need to do.

The political arguments over Biden's ambitious proposals are quickly distilling into a debate over the size and scope of what all sides agree are sorely needed upgrades to the nation's aging and outmoded infrastructure.

As the president reaches for a soaring legislative achievement with his $1.7 trillion American Jobs Plan and a separate $1.8 trillion American Families Plan, he is assessing whether he can cut a bipartisan deal with Republicans or will have to push through his proposals with only Democratic votes.

Republican senators outlined a $928 billion infrastructure proposal Thursday as a counteroffer to Biden, drawing a fresh red line against his plans raise the corporate tax, from 21% to 28%, to pay for new spending. Instead, the Republicans want to shift unspent COVID-19 relief dollars to help cover the costs, a nonstarter for many Democrats.

The Republican senators said their offer, raised from an initial $568 billion, delivers on core infrastructure investments that Biden has focused on as areas of potential agreement. With about $250 billion in new spending, the GOP plan remains far from the presidents approach. Biden reduced his $2.3 trillion opening bid to $1.7 trillion in earlier negotiations.

Its a serious effort to try to reach a bipartisan agreement, said Sen. Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia, the lead Republican negotiator.

President Joe Biden delivers remarks on the economy at the Cuyahoga Community College Metropolitan Campus, Thursday, May 27, 2021, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

As Biden left for Ohio, he said he called Capito to thank her for the proposal, but told her, We have to finish this really soon.

Biden toured Cuyahoga Community College, the same school where he was to hold a campaign rally in March 2020 only to have it be the first one canceled due to the pandemic. He cast his return as a symbol of how far the nation has come back, and he tried to make the case that passing his jobs and families plans would further the economy's recovery and prepare it for the decades ahead.

The president said he was not looking to punish anyone with his tax plans. But said it was time for Americas wealthy and corporations to help invest in the nations future.

Do you want to give the wealthiest people in America another tax cut? I dont begrudge them the money they make. Just start paying your fair share just a little bit, Biden said.

Talks are at a crossroads before a Memorial Day deadline to make progress toward a bipartisan deal. With slim majorities in the House and Senate, the Democratic president faces other hurdles if he decides to abandon talks with Republicans and tries to unite fractious Democrats.

The Republican offer would increase spending by $91 billion on roads and bridges, $48 billion on water resources and $25 billion on airports, according to a one-page summary released by the GOP negotiators. It would provide for one-time increases in broadband investments, at $65 billion, and $22 billion on rail.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said on CNBC that it was time for the administration to sober up and realize they dont have a massive mandate in Congress to do all of the things theyre trying to do.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Biden and Capito are expected to meet next week, while Congress is on a break.

The White House is also continuing to explore other proposals that we hope will emerge she said. A bipartisan group of lawmakers that includes Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, is also preparing an alternative plan.

Psaki made clear the administrations concern over tapping pandemic funds. We are worried that major cuts in COVID relief funds could imperil pending aid to small businesses, restaurants and rural hospitals using this money to get back on their feet after the crush of the pandemic, Psaki said in a statement.

Core differences remain between the White House and GOP negotiators over the definition of infrastructure: Republicans stick to traditional investments in roads, bridges, ports and water drinking systems, while Biden takes a more expansive view.

Under Biden's initial proposal, there is more than $300 billion for substantial upgrades to public schools, Veterans Administration hospitals and affordable housing, along with $25 billion for new and renovated child care centers.

Bidens proposal would spend heavily on efforts to confront climate change, with $174 billion to spur the electric vehicle market, in part by developing charging stations, and $50 billion so communities can better deal with floods, hurricanes, wildfires and other natural disasters.

One area of agreement is on boosting broadband, but the sides are apart on details. Republicans raised their initial offer to $65 billion in an earlier exchange; Biden is seeking $100 billion.

Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo., said the Republicans' overall proposal reflects what what people at home in Wyoming think of is infrastructure, roads with potholes.

The White House, still expressing public hopes for bipartisanship, welcomed the offer. At $928 billion over eight years, it features $257 billion in new money, more than the $225 billion the White House had said was in the initial Republican proposal. But still far less than the White House had hoped.

Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., said there is $700 billion in unspent COVID-19 aid from the American Rescue Plan, which was the administration's $1.9 trillion response to the coronavirus crisis earlier this year.

Toomey said some of that money could fill the gap between the amount of revenue normally collected from transportation taxes and fees, and the new spending the GOP senators are proposing.

But he said the Republican negotiators have made it very, very clear on every single time weve had a discussion is that were not raising taxes.
NEW YORK (AP)  Through the first year of the pandemic, the country's independent booksellers have  so far  avoided disaster.

FILE - A woman reads a book in Powell's Bookstore in downtown Portland, Ore., on, Jan. 4, 2008. On Thursday, the American Booksellers Association said that membership increased from 1,635 to 1,701 since May 2020, the additions a combination of brand new stores and existing stores that had not previously been part of the independents trade group. While association CEO Allison Hill and others had feared that hundreds of stores could go out of business during the 2020-21 holiday season, the ABA so far has only tallied 14 closings in 2021, along with more than 70 last year. (AP Photo/Don Ryan, File)

NEW YORK (AP)  Through the first year of the pandemic, the country's independent booksellers have  so far  avoided disaster.

On Thursday, the American Booksellers Association told The Associated Press that membership increased from 1,635 to 1,701 since May 2020, the additions a combination of brand-new stores and existing stores that had not been part of the independents' trade group. While association CEO Allison K. Hill and others had feared that hundreds of stores could go out of business during the 2020-21 holiday season, the ABA has tallied only 14 closings in 2021 so far, along with more than 70 last year.

It's fair to say that it could have been much, much worse, Hill said, describing the independent community as bruised but standing.

FILE- In this Saturday, Nov. 28, 2020, file photo, customers browse while shopping for books at the Strand Bookstore, an independent family owned bookstore founded in 1927 in New York. On Thursday, the American Booksellers Association said that membership increased from 1,635 to 1,701 since May 2020, the additions a combination of brand new stores and existing stores that had not previously been part of the independents trade group. While association CEO Allison Hill and others had feared that hundreds of stores could go out of business during the 2020-21 holiday season, the ABA so far has only tallied 14 closings in 2021, along with more than 70 last year. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, File)

Hill cited a few factors that helped compensate for pandemic-caused shutdowns and limited hours: PPP loans that enabled some owners to meet their payrolls, a surprisingly strong holiday season in December, increased online sales, and the rise of bookshop.org, an online seller that partners with independent stores and has directed more than $14 million to them in revenues.

But Hill said business for independent stores remains more challenging than ever, with many owners not expecting in-person events at least through the summer and still facing the growing strength of Amazon.com. While book sales overall have been strong during the pandemic, much of that has been at either Amazon or discount chains that sell books such as Walmart and Target.

Were open, were not making a profit, our sales are less than half of what they used to be," said Bryanne Hoeg, manager of the Portland, Oregon-based Powell's Books, during an online panel this week at the inaugural U.S. Book Show. "We cant have in-store events. We have to ask everyone to use a mask and no, we dont have a bathroom.

Bookstores are trying to reinvent themselves, and so is the American Booksellers Association  starting with what it means to be a bookstore and how one becomes an association member.

In 2019, the ABA had more than 1,800 members (and more than 2,500 store locations), a substantial increase from a decade before when core membership had fallen to just over 1,400  after once exceeding 5,000  in face of competition from Amazon and from such physical bookstore chains as Barnes & Noble and Borders. The demise of Borders and the unexpectedly limited appeal of e-books helped the independents grow in recent years.

Hill said the current membership numbers, which include nearly 2,100 locations, are smaller than in 2019 because the association has tightened its rules. Before 2020, essentially any store that happened to offer books could be an ABA member. Now, only businesses who primarily sell books (over 50% of inventory) are eligible, according to the association's website.

The ABA also became stricter last year in counting its inactive members, those that had not responded to repeated efforts to renew their membership. Unlike in previous years, inactive members are not automatically included in the total numbers. (The status of dozens of such stores remains undetermined, according to the ABA).

The opening of new stores is still a priority, Hill said. But the association is now taking a more holistic view in measuring the state of independent selling, with factors including diversity, profitability, and finding new management when an existing owner wants to retire.

The ABA is in transition in other ways. Criticized for its predominantly white leadership and membership, it has established a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council, and, in its announcement Thursday, cited the addition of 23 BIPOC-owned stores as members. It has also expanded the definition of a store. While many members are traditional general interest bookstores, whether the Tattered Cover in Denver or Books & Books in Coral Gables, Florida, others are pop-up" sellers setting up temporary or online-only outlets, such as Marianne Reiner's runforcoverbookstore.com.

Reiner, based in San Diego, had opened Run For Cover as a physical store in 2018 and was anticipating a strong 2020 before the pandemic hit. With sales plunging and the rent not going down, she decided to shut down the store and become a digital seller instead, a concierge personally delivering books to customers and including hand-written notes.

It's been a challenging year, but a good one, Reiner said, adding with a laugh, I may even be able to pay myself a little.
WASHINGTON (AP)  What started as a pragmatic effort to boost scientific research and development has morphed into sweeping Senate bill aimed at making the U.S. more competitive with China and other countries, including $50 billion in emergency funds to shore up domestic computer chip manufacturing.

FILE - In this May 18, 2021, file photo, Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., speaks on Capitol Hill in Washington. The Senate is set to approve a big innovation bill aimed at making the U.S. more competitive with China and other countries. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File)

WASHINGTON (AP)  What started as a pragmatic effort to boost scientific research and development has morphed into sweeping Senate bill aimed at making the U.S. more competitive with China and other countries, including $50 billion in emergency funds to shore up domestic computer chip manufacturing.

The American Innovation and Competition Act is key to President Joe Bidens infrastructure plans and was headed toward final passage as debate dragged into early Friday morning. Its also a test of whether the split 50-50 Senate can accomplish bipartisan achievements at a time when theres pressure on Democrats to change the rules to push past obstruction and gridlock.

Senators slogged through days of debates and amendments, but proceedings came to a standstill late Thursday. One Republican, Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, protested the rush to finish and insisted on more changes to the sprawling package. A few other Republicans joined him.

By midnight senators huddled in the chamber to discuss next steps. Passage was still expected, but debate dragged into early Friday.

Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., the Commerce Committee chairwoman managing the action for Democrats, reminded colleagues that the bill has been through lengthy committee hearings with input and changes from all sides.

Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo., left, chairman of the Senate Republican Conference, and Sen. Todd Young, R-Ind., rush to the chamber for votes ahead of the approaching Memorial Day recess, at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, May 27, 2021. Senate Republicans are ready to deploy the filibuster to block a commission on the Jan. 6 insurrection, shattering chances for a bipartisan probe of the deadly assault on the U.S. Capitol and reviving pressure to do away with the procedural tactic that critics say has lost its purpose. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

I actually think we have gotten more mindshare with people about why this is important, right, because we had an open debate process, she said earlier in the week.

The emerging final product has enjoyed broad, bipartisan support and would be one of the more comprehensive investments in U.S. research and development in recent years as the country tries to bolster and rebuild home-state industries that have shifted overseas during the era of globalization.

A top Republican author, Sen. Todd Young of Indiana, characterized his underlying proposal  the Endless Frontier Act he co-authored with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer  as part of the countrys history of innovation, like the moon landing or launch of the internet, that Washington needs to foster if America is to remain competitive.

Its not about beating China, Young said in a speech Thursday. He said its about rising to the challenge posed by China to be a better version of ourselves.

Biden had included elements of the legislation as part of his big infrastructure plan, the American Jobs Act, making a similar case that the U.S. needs to increase its investments to stay competitive with rivals, particularly China.

During a virtual meeting with CEOs last month over the global computer chip shortage that has been disrupting supplies and sales of everyday goods -- from cellphones to new cars  Biden explained his plan to build the infrastructure of today.

Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., an ally of former President Donald Trump, arrives as senators go to the chamber for votes ahead of the approaching Memorial Day recess, at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, May 27, 2021. Senate Republicans are ready to deploy the filibuster to block a commission on the Jan. 6 insurrection, shattering chances for a bipartisan probe of the deadly assault on the U.S. Capitol and reviving pressure to do away with the procedural tactic that critics say has lost its purpose. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

But the bill became weighted down by the sheer scope of the effort. Actually a collection of bills, it swelled to more than 2,400 pages and a final package of some three dozen amendments from senators of both parties submitted late Thursday caused the opponents to hit the brakes.

Johnson stacked up the bill at his desk bemoaning the towering size, even as he said the legislative process to bring the bill to this point had been better than most over the past decade.

We havent had time to read this  no one has, said Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., joining Johnsons protest.

The last round of amendments was shelved by the objection. But Johnson seized the floor to push other priorities, including his concerns over another topic  illegal immigration and his interest in secure fencing along the southern border with Mexico.

Votes on passage were expected early Friday.

The centerpiece of the bill is a $50 billion emergency allotment to the Commerce Department to stand up semiconductor development and manufacturing through research and development and incentive programs previously authorized by Congress. They focus on the military, automakers and other critical industries reliant on computer chips.

The U.S. once manufactured far more chips than today, which some senators said put the U.S. at risk of fluctuations in the global supply chain, as happened over the past year with shortages.

The Endless Frontier provision would authorize funding for the National Science Foundation, including the establishment of a Directorate for Technology and Innovation, as well as research and development funds and scholarships for students focused on science, technology, engineering and math programs.

Senators have tried to strike a balance in raising awareness about Chinas growing influence without fanning divisive anti-Asian rhetoric, mindful that hate crimes against Asian Americans have spiked during the coronavirus pandemic.

Other measures spell out national security concerns and target money laundering schemes or cyberattacks by entities on behalf of the government of China. There are also buy America provisions for infrastructure projects in the U.S.

At the same time, senators agreed to tack on amendments showing shifting attitudes over Chinas handling of the COVID-19 outbreak. One would prevent federal funds for the Wuhan Institute of Virology amid fresh investigation into the origins of the virus and possible connections to the labs research. The city registered some of the first virus cases.

Taken together, the innovation act has been a priority for Schumer, the Democratic leader who has long advocated a tougher approach to China. He and Young struck up a conversation about teaming up on a bill during workouts at the Senate gym, lawmakers said.

It's unclear whether the measure would find support in the Democratic-led House.
NEW YORK (AP)  Americans are going back to one of their favorite pastimes: store shopping.

Shoppers exit a shopping mall in Chicago downtown, Tuesday, May 25, 2021. Americans are going back to one of their favorite past times: store shopping. With vaccinations rolling out and shoppers freer to go out maskless, retailers are seeing an eager return to their stores after months of watching their customers focus on online buying during the pandemic. (AP Photo/Shafkat Anowar)

NEW YORK (AP)  Americans are going back to one of their favorite pastimes: store shopping.

With more people getting vaccinated and dropping their face masks, retailers from Walmart to Macy's are seeing an eager return to their stores after more than a year of their customers migrating online during the pandemic.

Marcia Williams, who lives in a Philadelphia suburb and who stuck to online shopping only during the height of COVID-19, went back to her local mall right after she was fully vaccinated last month. That was her first time in more than a year

I am definitely getting out," said Williams, a hair and makeup artist who spent nearly $1,000 on clothing for herself and her three children during several buying trips. I do feel more comfortable. I like the experience of trying on clothes. I love grocery shopping. It's my outlet.

The return to store shopping, highlighted in many retailers' earnings reports in recent days, offers a big relief in part because shoppers return less when they make their purchases at the store  8% compared with 25% for online, according to Forrester Research. And store customers tend to do more impulse buying. For clothing, for instance, 25% of purchases are done on a whim versus 16% online, says market research firm NPD Group Inc.

Troy Hemlin visiting Chicago from Springfield Il., crosses the street carrying shopping bags, Wednesday, May 26, 2021, in downtown Chicago. Americans are going back to one of their favorite past times: store shopping. With vaccinations rolling out and shoppers freer to go out maskless, retailers are seeing an eager return to their stores after months of watching their customers focus on online buying during the pandemic. (AP Photo/Shafkat Anowar)

Retailers want you in the store, said Marshal Cohen, NPD's chief industry advisor. They need you to be in the store so you generate more traffic. Crowds bring more crowds. (Shoppers) buy more product.

Still, retailers  particularly mall-based stores and other specialty stores that were struggling even before the pandemic  face plenty of challenges to keep customers coming back. They face stepped up competition online and from discounters that thrived in the last year. Experts also say that post-pandemic shoppers will be even more demanding: After being forced to stay close to home, theyre looking for better and convenient services and experiences.

Many retailers like Macy's are still recovering from the pandemic, which forced them to temporarily close early last year, driving more traffic to big box stores that were allowed to stay open. And overall store traffic, while rebounding, is still not back to where it was two years ago.

Customer counts at overall stores surged 43.2% for the week starting May 10 compared to the year-ago period, but that number was still down 5.6% for that same period in 2019, says mobile-device location data from foot-traffic analytics firm Placer.ai. In clothing, customer counts soared more than two-fold for the same timeframe, but it was down 11.2% on a two-year basis. For big-box stores like Target, customer counts were up 5.3% for the same period but down 4.9% on a two-year basis.

Analysts are carefully watching the battered department store sectors market share, which shrunk from 3% in 2019 to 2% last year and has remained at that figure for the first four months of the year, according to NPD. In comparison, discounters market share held steady at 21% last year from 2019 but ticked up to 22% for the early part of this year. Overall, market share for online retail rose to 26% last year from 23% in 2019.

The pandemic pulled forward the pace of online spending by about two years. Online shopping is expected to account for 21% of overall sales, or $794 billion, in 2020 compared to the prior year and should increase to 27%, or $1.1 trillion in 2023, Forrester says. However, online sales growth is slowing down, from 29.5% last year to a projected 15.6% this year and 10% next year.

Shoppers walk past a giant LL Bean boot outside the Ross Park Mall in Pittsburgh Sunday, May 23, 2021. With vaccinations rolling out and shoppers freer to go out maskless, retailers are seeing an eager return to their stores after months of watching their customers focus on online buying during the pandemic. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Williams, who has a makeup line called Embellish Beauty and pivoted her consulting business to online during the height of the pandemic, says she will keep about 15% of her overall buying to online purchases like soap and other essentials.

Still, physical shopping is still not the same as it was pre-COVID-19. For example, retailers' beauty counters are not yet allowing shoppers to try on makeup. Target said it will begin to offer this service in stores again this year

Williams says she's used to being served champagne when she shopped at Tiffanys. But when she was at the upscale jeweler earlier this month, there was no champagne to be had because of COVID-19 restrictions.

Those are the experiences I missed, she said.

Still, store executives are feeling optimistic  for now.

Walmart, based in Bentonville, Arkansas, said last week that transactions in its stores were up for the first time in a year. At Target, sales at stores opened at least a year jumped 18% in the three-month period that ended May 1. That follows a 6.9% increase in the previous quarter.

That trend continued this week.

Best Buy, which had earlier said that comparable store sales might fall this year, revised their expectations Thursday, saying that those sales, a critical gauge of a retailer's health, will likely rise between 3% and 6% in 2021.

Stores are seeing the return of shoppers "across all age demographics," said CEO Corie Barry on Thursday in a conference call with industry analysts.

Many retail executives say that they are adding fresh new merchandise to welcome back shoppers. Target is planning to open Ulta Beauty shops in more than 100 Target stores by mid-2021. Kohl's is getting ready to open Sephora beauty shops in 200 locations this fall. And Macy's is leaning into such areas as toys, health and wellness, pet care, food and wine.

Clearly, our customer is ready to get on with life, Macy's CEO Jeff Gennette told analysts last week. We dont see this as a short-term pop.

______

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JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  Two vaccines made by Chinas Sinopharm appear safe and effective against COVID-19, according to a study published in a medical journal.

A police officer receives his first of the Sinopharm coronavirus vaccine, at a vaccination center in the police headquarters, in Peshawar, Pakistan, Monday, May 24, 2021. (AP Photo/Muhammad Sajjaad)

JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  Two vaccines made by Chinas Sinopharm appear safe and effective against COVID-19, according to a study published in a medical journal.

Scientists had been waiting for more details about the two vaccines, even though they already are being used in many countries, and one recently won the backing of the World Health Organization for emergency use.

The report, published online in the Journal of the American Medical Association, concluded the two vaccines are about 73% and 78% effective, as Sinopharm has previously claimed.

Researchers from Sinopharm and its local partners in the Middle East say the trial involved around 40,380 participants with the company's two vaccines -- one developed by the Wuhan Institute of Biological Products and the other by the Beijing Institute of Biological Products  and a placebo. The trial was carried out in four countries  Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Jordan. However, the study provided data for just Bahrain and the UAE.

Theres nothing very surprising. Its consistent with what they have claimed previously, but it does not completely eliminate the doubts about Sinopharm, said Jin Dong-yan, a medical professor at the University of Hong Kong who was not involved with the study.

He raised doubts about how protective the vaccine was based on a recent surge of cases in the island nation of Seychelles, which had vaccinated a large majority of its population with the Sinopharm vaccine.

The study, performed mostly in younger men, had little information about the vaccines effectiveness against severe disease. Some experts also expressed concern at the shortage of female participants, with nearly 85% being male.

"Its important to make sure you have tested it in enough women to be able to start seeing any possible safety concerns," said Ashley St. John, an associate professor at Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore.

A spokesperson for the company did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The vaccines, both of which are made with inactivated viruses, have already been given to millions of people across the world.

The World Health Organization cleared the Beijing Institute of Biological Products' shot for emergency use in early May, making it the first Chinese vaccine to receive the certification.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in April that China has provided vaccines to more than 100 countries, although it has not identified them. While China has six vaccines in use, the majority of its exports come from two companies: Sinopharm and Sinovac.

Wu reported from Taipei, Taiwan.

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.
After a year of coronavirus lockdowns, the start of summer beckons with vacation plans made possible by relaxed COVID-19 restrictions. But a severe worker shortage brings a warning for travelers: Expect delays and pack a little patience.

After a year of coronavirus lockdowns, the start of summer beckons with vacation plans made possible by relaxed COVID-19 restrictions. But a severe worker shortage brings a warning for travelers: Expect delays and pack a little patience.

Lifeguards and hotel housekeepers are in short supply. So are rental cars. And don't count on having a fruity cocktail at the hotel Tiki bar.

The labor shortage is hitting the nations tourist destinations just as they try to rebound from a year lost to the pandemic, where periodic surges in cases and lockdowns had Americans sticking close to home. Now, with more than half of adults vaccinated, Americans are ready to venture out with the traditional start of summer travel.

But the staffing issues threaten to derail the travel industrys recovery. Travelers can expect fewer menu choices at restaurants, lengthy check-in lines at hotels and airports, and fewer rides and food stands at theme parks.

Some hotels aren't filling all of their rooms or changing the sheets as often because they don't have enough housekeepers. Six of the most popular national parks  including Yosemite, Rocky Mountain, Acadia and Zion  will require advance reservations for many visitors to allow for social distancing.

This is nothing like we've ever seen before, said Michelle Woodhull, president of Charming Inns, which includes four small hotels and a fine dining restaurant in Charleston, South Carolina.

The company has limited room reservations by 20 percent during some weeks and reduced seating at the restaurant, said Woodhull, who recently fielded a complaint from a customer who couldn't get a table for four weeks.

Unfortunately, that is a reality, she said, adding that it's better than delivering poor service. "What business wants to turn away business, especially after the year we've had?"

Still, the tourism industry is showing signs of coming back. Airline executives say domestic leisure travel is at pre-pandemic levels, and the number of people passing through U.S. airports daily is likely to top 2 million before the week is over  the first time that has happened since early March 2020.

Air travelers planning to rent a car during the Memorial Day weekend might be out of luck. Rental cars are scarce, and they are pricey  the average cost has roughly doubled from a year ago, according to government figures.

The AAA auto club forecasts that 37 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home over the upcoming holiday, a 60% increase over last year. But if AAA is right about this weekend, that will mean 6 million fewer people traveling than over the same holiday in 2019.

The reasons behind the worker shortage are hotly debated. Many employers blame the federal governments extra $300-per-week in unemployment aid. But plenty of hospitality workers who abruptly lost their jobs a year ago have moved on to new careers and arent coming back.

Some employers in the hospitality industry want to hire new workers at lower wages instead of recalling laid-off employees, said D. Taylor, president of the hotel, gaming and airport workers union Unite Here.

Big hotel chains are considering eliminating housekeeping and guest-services jobs, and casinos are moving to cut jobs in food and beverage, he told a congressional subcommittee this week.

Thats bad for customers, but its also bad for workers and communities because housekeepers, cooks, servers  thats the backbone of the service economy, Taylor said.

A survey of 4,000 travel and tourism workers earlier this year showed that many found jobs with higher pay and predictable schedules and more plan on leaving the industry soon, said Peter Ricci, director of Florida Atlantic Universitys hospitality and tourism management program.

The travel sector as a whole, he said, faces a moment of change and will need to offer better wages and benefits and rethink how it treats employees.

It's time for our industry to wake up and see thats an important thing. We have a shortage for a reason, said Cathy Balestriere, general manager of Cranes Beach House, a boutique hotel in Delray Beach, Florida.

She has managed to keep most of her staff and brought in outside workers to provide massages and yoga, but the hotel is not offering breakfast, and the poolside Tiki bar is closed because theres no one to serve drinks. Managers and maintenance staff have pitched in with housekeeping duties.

Maines biggest amusement park, Funtown Splashtown USA, which opens Memorial Day weekend, is scaling back hours and operating only five days a week because it cannot find enough workers.

The park in Saco, Maine, still needs lifeguards, ride operators and cleanup crews despite offering wage increases and four season passes for summer hires. The reduced number of international students is another problem for the largest seasonal employer in the state.

Raj Kapoor, who manages a popular food court on the Belmar, New Jersey, oceanfront, has hired 14 people for the summer, but he could still use eight to 10 more to scoop ice cream, roll burritos and sell sodas, milkshakes and candy.

The labor shortage has affected his business in other, less obvious ways. A shipment of soda that was promised the next day took a week and a half to arrive because the distributor did not have enough delivery drivers.

Diners in tourist hot spots shouldnt be surprised when they find restaurants with limited hours, streamlined menus and some seating sections closed, even when theres a wait for tables, said Barry Gutin, co-owner of the Cuba Libre restaurant chain on the East Coast.

To attract workers and help them get ahead, theyve raised wages and gone as far as offering English and Spanish language courses and personal finance training. But hiring has still been a challenge. Their location in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is only open for dinner right now  not even for takeout or delivery.

Were protecting the guest experience by not over-seating, he said. Were hoping they understand things are a little different than pre-pandemic.

Regardless of destination, travelers should make sure to call ahead and be ready to change plans at a moments notice.

Jamie Goble had been set to fly to Ohio from her home in Waco, Texas, to join her family for three days next week at Cedar Point amusement park, where they planned to celebrate her nephew's high school graduation.

But nine days before her flight, the park announced last week that it would be closed two days a week for most of the month because of staffing shortages.

Not just the park, the hotel too, she said. So we were out of a place to stay. Its all understandable, but we thought they had things figured out.

Instead, they quickly shifted plans to ride roller coasters at Dollywood in Tennessee and go hiking at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Associated Press writers David Koenig in Dallas, Wayne Parry in Belmar, New Jersey, and David Sharp in Portland, Maine, contributed to this report.
BANGKOK (AP)  Thailand is ramping up efforts to curb trade in wildlife to help reduce the risk of future pandemics, officials said Thursday, though it was unclear whether that would mean an end to all such sales in the wildlife trafficking hub.

A fruit vendor wearing a protective mask to help curb the spread of the coronavirus pushes her cart past giant Buddhist statues for sale in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, May 27, 2021. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

BANGKOK (AP)  Thailand is ramping up efforts to curb trade in wildlife to help reduce the risk of future pandemics, officials said Thursday, though it was unclear whether that would mean an end to all such sales in the wildlife trafficking hub.

The government intends to make Thailand free of the legal wildlife trade while also combatting illegal trafficking in wild animals, Minister for Natural Resources and the Environment Waravut Silpa-archa said Thursday.

Speaking in pre-recorded addresses, Silpa-archa and other officials said the pandemic has raised the urgency of shutting down the supply chain of wildlife and game meat that may harbor pathogens that cause COVID-19, Ebola and other illnesses in people.

Customers wearing protective masks to help curb the spread of the coronavirus order medicine through plastic sheets front of drug store in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, May 27, 2021. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

The motto for the campaign, he said, is, Stop disease and extinctions: Never eat, buy, hunt or sell wildlife.

Since the minister delivered his remarks remotely, it was not possible to ask if authorities plan to shutter markets that still sell a variety of animal species, even in downtown Bangkok.

Some markets are closed, at least for now, as Thailand grapples with its worst wave of coronavirus illnesses since the pandemic began. The first case outside of China surfaced in Bangkok, but the number of infections remained low until this April, when cases surged despite strict quarantines for people entering the country.

Officials, meanwhile, are turning their attention to preventing future crises linked to the spread of diseases from animals to people.

FILE - In this Dec. 20, 2019, file photo, Cola, 10-year-old female orangutan waits in a cage to be sent back to Indonesia at a Suvarnabhumi Airport in a collaborative effort to combat the illicit wildlife trade in Bangkok, Thailand. Thailand is ramping up efforts to curb trade in wildlife to help reduce the risk of future pandemics, officials said Thursday, May 27, 2021, though it was unclear whether that would mean an end to all sales of exotic species in the wildlife trafficking hub. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File)

Thailand has one of the strongest enforcement regimes in the region, at least on paper.

The minimum fine for trafficking in protected species is $9,000, together with imprisonment of more than 10 years, Silpa-archa said at a seminar hosted by the anti-trafficking group Freeland at the Foreign Correspondents Club of Thailand.

At the same time, destruction of habitat is increasingly forcing animals and people into closer proximity. Poaching is a significant problem and demand for some species, especially in China, is a key factor driving the wildlife trade.

It is vital to tackle the sales and consumption of high-risk wildlife as its supply chain is the source of the highest risk of zoonotic diseases. We need to stop the supply chain," the minister said. The best way to end the illegal wildlife trade is to break its supply chain."

The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is thought to have emerged from bats or other species, though the exact origins of the disease, which emerged in the central Chinese city of Wuhan in late 2019, are a subject of intense debate.

In February 2020, the Chinese government announced a broad ban on the consumption of wild animals.

Last month, the World Health Organization issued guidelines noting that well-run traditional style markets are safe but that problems arise when live animals, especially wild animals that cannot be properly assessed for potential risks," are sold and slaughtered in public areas.

Keeping such animals in cages and killing and dressing the meat in the same areas adds to the risk of contamination with flood, feces and other waste, it said.

Such environments provide the opportunity for animal viruses, including coronaviruses, to amplify themselves and transmit to new hosts, including humans," WHO said.

Ending the wildlife trade is a vital step in preventing such crises, said Pimpavadee Phaholyothin, CEO of the World Wildlife Fund-Thailand.

The rationale is really to protect human health because of the very high risk of spillover," she said.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  Israel's top diplomat to the United Arab Emirates attended a ceremony in Dubai on the grounds of the Arabian Peninsula's first permanent exhibition to commemorate the Holocaust. Hours earlier, he'd attended an event establishing a joint venture between an Israeli and Emirati company.

Israeli's Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Eitan Na'eh, talks during an exhibition commemorating the Jewish Holocaust in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Israel's top diplomat to the United Arab Emirates attended a ceremony in Dubai on the grounds of the Arabian Peninsula's first permanent exhibition to commemorate the Holocaust. Hours earlier, he'd attended an event establishing a joint venture between an Israeli and Emirati company. (AP Photo/Kamran Jebreili)

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  Israel's top diplomat to the United Arab Emirates attended a ceremony in Dubai on the grounds of the Arabian Peninsula's first permanent exhibition to commemorate the Holocaust. Hours earlier, he'd attended an event establishing a joint venture between an Israeli and Emirati company.

The receptions on Wednesday were the clearest indication since a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip came into effect last week that the devastating 11-day war between Hamas and Israel and the violence that gripped Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque in the days preceding it have had no visible impact on the UAE's commitment to establishing deep ties with the state of Israel.

What we see here is the exact opposite of what we see in Gaza... What we see here in the whole normalization process is a departure from the past, Israeli Ambassador Eitan Naeh said.

At least 254 Palestinians were killed, including 66 children, in the Gaza Strip during the war. Another 1,948 people were wounded, according to Gazas health ministry, which does not differentiate between fighters and civilians. Twelve people were killed in Israel, including an Israeli soldier and two children. The bombardment of the blockaded Gaza Strip destroyed about 1,000 homes and badly damaged hundreds more. Hospitals, clinics and main sewage and water lines were also damaged or destroyed.

A boy lights up a candle during an exhibition commemorating the Jewish Holocaust in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Israel's top diplomat to the United Arab Emirates attended a ceremony in Dubai on the grounds of the Arabian Peninsula's first permanent exhibition to commemorate the Holocaust. Hours earlier, he'd attended an event establishing a joint venture between an Israeli and Emirati company. (AP Photo/Kamran Jebreili)

The violence, which erupted in the final days of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, angered citizens across Gulf Arab states, some of whom expressed support for Palestinians and opposition to Israel on social media or in limited street protests.

The UAE government and its top officials publicly expressed concern over the violence in east Jerusalem and condemned the storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque compound by Israeli security forces, as well as Jewish settler efforts to evict Palestinian families from their homes in the city's Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood.

It signaled a rare rebuke of Israel by the UAE since the two countries agreed to normalize relations last year. Some questioned whether the UAE would pause or halt the momentum of its strategic relationship with Israel, which included launching direct flights, cooperating on intelligence sharing, welcoming tens of thousands of Israeli tourists, investing in the Israeli gas sector and announcing a $10 billion investment fund for a range of Israeli sectors.

After the violence in Jerusalem escalated into a war between Israel and Hamas on May 10 with Gazas ruling militant Hamas group firing rockets on Israel, the UAE muted its direct criticism of Israel and instead issued a statement calling on all parties to cease fighting. Hamas is an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood movement, which the UAE views as a threat.

When asked about the nature of conversations with Emirati officials during the entirety of the recent conflict, Ambassador Naeh  who is posted in Abu Dhabi  said the people he'd spoken with showed a lot of understanding and curiosity."

There was no tension in the conversations, he said. To our ears, the UAE has called for the cessation of killing on both sides. They were mourning the death on both sides.

Na'eh spoke to The Associated Press from an open-air courtyard of the Crossroads of Civilization," a privately-funded museum in Dubai that was hosting an event showcasing its Holocaust exhibition. The museum's founder is Ahmed Almansoori, a prominent Emirati figure who said the museum grounds were bestowed by Dubai ruler and UAE Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The event, attended by Jews, Israelis, the German ambassador to the UAE and others, included a solemn hymn of a Jewish prayer in Arabic for those departed. Young Jewish children took part in a candle lighting.

The event focused on remembrance of the horrors of the Holocaust, the lessons to be learned from it and the importance of recognizing attempts at ethnic cleansing can happen and have happened since.

As guests exited, joint Israeli-Emirati flag lapel pins were being sold for 20 dirhams (around $5). A large piece of artwork in the courtyard depicted an Emirati man in traditional garb with his arm on the shoulder of an Israeli as they laughed and shared coffee under the word cousins" written in Arabic and Hebrew.

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DES MOINES, Iowa (AP)  The U.S. Department of Agriculture has declined a request by the pork industry to increase the speed at which pigs can be processed into meat, delivering a victory to slaughterhouse workers who had raised safety concerns about the plan.

FILE - This April 8, 2020, file photo shows the Smithfield pork processing plant in Sioux Falls, S.D. The USDA said on Wednesday, May 26, 2021, it will not increase the speed at which pigs are processed into meat at U.S. pork plants rejecting a request from a group representing pork producers to allow processing plants to speed up the production of pigs into meat. A union representing workers claimed that the increased volume endangers workers. (AP Photo/Stephen Groves, File)

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP)  The U.S. Department of Agriculture has declined a request by the pork industry to increase the speed at which pigs can be processed into meat, delivering a victory to slaughterhouse workers who had raised safety concerns about the plan.

The USDA announced Wednesday evening it would enforce a Minnesota judge's order issued in March. The judge struck down plans begun years ago but finalized by the USDA under former President Donald Trump's administration that would have lifted maximum line speeds at pork slaughterhouses, allowing dozens of plants to speed up production.

The United Food and Commercial Workers Union International, which represents 33,000 workers in the pork processing industry, welcomed the decision.

President Biden made a commitment to strengthen safety protections for Americas meatpacking workers on the frontlines of this pandemic. With todays USDA statement, the Biden administration is reaffirming its commitment to worker safety, union president Marc Perrone said Wednesday.

The USDA's decision followed a March 31 ruling by U.S. District Judge Joan Ericksen, who had considered a lawsuit filed by the union and found the USDA acted arbitrarily and capriciously when it refused to consider the impact of faster line speeds on worker safety. Ericksen ordered the rule to be vacated but delayed the effective date for 90 days to give the USDA and the industry time to prepare for any operational change.

The National Pork Producers Council, a group representing pig farmers, this week asked the USDA to appeal the ruling, seek a stay while the appeal is considered and request the agency pursue a fast-tracked rule that would allow higher line speeds.

In a statement posted Wednesday on its website, the USDA said pork processing plants should prepare to revert to previous maximum line speeds as of June 30.

The agency is committed to worker safety and ensuring a safe, reliable food supply. We will work with the establishments to comply with the courts ruling and minimize disruptions to the supply chain, the USDA said.

Pork processing plants in Hatfield, Pennsylvania; Coldwater, Michigan; Fremont, Nebraska; and Austin, Minnesota, have been working with the faster line speeds under a pilot project for years, and a plant in Guymon, Oklahoma, began faster speeds in 2019. Several others were expected to adopt faster speeds but plans were delayed by the pandemic.

The pork producers group had said the judges ruling would force plants already operating at faster speeds to return to the previous maximum line speed of 1,106 hogs per hour, significantly less than the 1,450 hogs per hour some plants were processing.

In a statement, NPPC spokesman Jim Monroe said the organization is disappointed with the USDA decision to support a flawed federal district court decision," adding that irreparable harm will be exacted on small U.S. hog farmers when this court order goes into effect at the end of June 2021.

The group earlier said the judges ruling will cut U.S. pork packing plant capacity by 2.5% and result in more than $80 million in reduced income for small hog farmers, according to an analysis conducted for the group by Iowa State University agricultural economist Dermot Hayes.

The group said it will pursue all avenues to reverse the court decision.

The Washington-based North American Meat Institute, a trade group for the meat processing industry, said the judges ruling could have significant unintended consequences, including that workers who will now have increased workloads as companies attempt to make up for lost production.

Hayes, in his analysis said some plant managers have told him they may add longer shifts or weekend work to keep up the production pace at slower rates.

The impact on consumer prices for ham, pork chops and bacon isn't immediately clear and will depend on how the industry responds. If the slower speeds cause processors to supply less pork to the market, grocers and restaurants are left competing against each other for a small amount of pork, which would drive up wholesale and retail pork prices, said Jayson Lusk, head of the department of agricultural economics at Purdue University.
WASHINGTON - The United States has made no decisions about when or how to reopen the border with Canada, the White House said Thursday in response to reports suggesting American patience with the closure has run its course.

The Canada-U.S. border near Lacolle, Que., is seen on Friday, March 20, 2020. The White House says no decision has been made about when and how to reopen the border between Canada and the United States.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz

WASHINGTON - The United States has made no decisions about when or how to reopen the border with Canada, the White House said Thursday in response to reports suggesting American patience with the closure has run its course.

Press secretary Jen Psaki said she was not aware that any decisions had been made about the border beyond last week's news that the restrictions, which have been in place since March 2020, would be extended to June 21.

A media report Wednesday out of Point Roberts, Wash., a border community hit hard by the restrictions, cited anonymous sources with U.S. Customs and Border Protection as saying the closure would end by June 22.

"It was just extended for about a month, I think, so that's around that timeline," Psaki told a media briefing.

"I don't think a decision has been made, that I'm aware of, about what would happen after that."

Officials in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's office did not explicitly confirm or deny the report, pointing instead to his insistence that it would take 75 per cent of Canadians getting vaccinated before restrictions can be lifted.

"Conversations are ongoing constantly with the U.S. administration because there is much eagerness to get back to normal on all sides," Trudeau said Thursday.

Step 1, he said, is to get the outbreak down to a stage where minor flare-ups can be effectively managed and snuffed out without risk of spreading more broadly. Step 2 would be that vaccination threshold.

"Getting the vaccination numbers up above 75 per cent across the country is going to allow for a much better posture on reopening, including around what we do with the U.S. border and international borders."

Thanks in large part to the fact that COVID-19 ran so rampant through the U.S. throughout 2020, Canadians have been far less eager to ease the border restrictions than their American counterparts, polls have suggested.

But the robust rollout of vaccines has made some lawmakers in the U.S. impatient.

Canada is now outpacing the U.S. in terms of people who have received at least one dose  53.5 per cent and 49.3 per cent, at last count  while some 40 per cent of Americans are fully vaccinated, compared with less than five per cent of Canadians.

"I think it is time for us to develop a plan," Vermont Gov. Phil Scott said Thursday during a panel discussion hosted by the Conseil du patronat du Quebec, the province's largest employers' group.

Scott said the U.S. could be doing more to help Canadians get their hands on second doses of the vaccine, and expressed support for the idea of requiring travellers to show some sort of proof of vaccination in order to cross the border.

"There's got to be a way to do this, and I think maybe some sort of a (vaccine) passport, at least during the transition, might be helpful."

New York Rep. Brian Higgins, one of the loudest U.S. voices to date on reopening the border, has been urging the two sides to come up with a plan  including allowing Canadians to travel to the U.S. in order to get a second dose.

Higgins wrote to New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo last week urging him to allow Canadians to take advantage of vaccination appointments that are going unfilled in the state in order to expedite lifting the border restrictions.

"If there is excess supply of the vaccine, we should do everything in our power to see that those doses do not go to waste," Higgins wrote.

"The stakes of this pandemic are too high to do anything less."

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 27, 2021.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-28 06:04:52|Editor: huaxia

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DAMASCUS -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has won his fourth seven-year term in the 2021 presidential race, the Syrian parliament announced on Thursday.

Hamoudeh Sabbagh, the parliament speaker, said that Assad won 95.1 percent of the vote as opposed to 88.7 percent in the 2014 election.

He said that about 14 million of the estimated 18 million eligible voters inside and outside Syria cast their votes, with a turnout rate of 78.64 percent. (Syria-President-Election)

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CAIRO -- Arab League (AL) Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul-Gheit welcomed on Thursday the U.S. pledge to reopen the U.S. consulate in East Jerusalem, saying the move would boost U.S.-Palestinian relations.

"The U.S. move reflects a positive approach by the current U.S. administration, especially in terms of its clear recognition of the two-state solution as the only way to settle the Palestinian-Israeli conflict," Aboul-Gheit was quoted as saying by a statement issued by the Cairo-based pan-Arab body. (AL-U.S.-Jerusalem-Consulate)

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ANKARA -- Turkey on Thursday confirmed 8,426 new COVID-19 cases, including 673 symptomatic patients, as the total number of positive cases in the country reached 5,220,549.

The death toll from the virus in Turkey rose by 183 to 46,970, while the total recoveries climbed to 5,070,815 after 13,102 more cases recovered in the last 24 hours, according to the Turkish Health Ministry. (Turkey-COVID19)

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RIYADH -- The Saudi-led coalition denied on Thursday the rumors about the presence of United Arab Emirates (UAE) forces on the Yemeni islands of Socotra and Mayyun (Perim), Saudi Press Agency reported.

All the equipments currently present on Mayyun island are under the control of the Coalition Command, the coalition announced, adding that they have been deployed in order to enable the Yemeni and coalition forces to counter the Houthi militia, secure maritime navigation and support the forces of the West Coast. (Saudi-Yemen-UAE)
Members of the military are being deployed to Manitoba where surging COVID-19 cases have overwhelmed hospitals, while the prime minister has put his support behind international efforts to understand how the global pandemic began.

Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister leaves the convention centre after getting a COVID-19 vaccination from Dr. Brent Roussin, chief provincial public health officer, in Winnipeg on April 8, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods

Members of the military are being deployed to Manitoba where surging COVID-19 cases have overwhelmed hospitals, while the prime minister has put his support behind international efforts to understand how the global pandemic began.

"I know there are a lot of theories out there, but we need to make sure we are getting to a full and complete airing of the facts to actually understand what happened," Justin Trudeau said Thursday.

United States President Joe Biden ordered intelligence officials there Wednesday to redouble efforts to investigate the origins of the COVID-19 virus, including any possibility the trail might lead to a Chinese laboratory.

Trudeau said such efforts will not only ensure accountability, but could also provide insight into how to protect the world from future pandemics.

Meanwhile, a four-week military mission was to start Friday in Manitoba, where strict public health orders have been extended to try to tackle COVID-19's stubborn grip on the province.

The province's intensive-care units are so full that 26 critical patients have been transferred to Ontario for treatment in the last 10 days.Saskatchewan is expected to start taking some patients, too.

"We are not in a position to reopen," said Premier Brian Pallister.

The military help was requested last week as the province posted the highest daily case numbers, per capita, in the country.

There were 295 more cases and eight additional deaths reported in Manitoba.

While infections remain high in that province, the number of active cases nationally is half what it was at the peak of the third wave in mid-April.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau holds a press conference during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ottawa on Tuesday, March 30, 2021. He is joined virtually by Dr. Howard Njoo, Deputy Chief Public Health Officer, and Minister of Public Services and Procurement Anita Anand. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

Dr. Howard Njoo, Canadas deputy chief public health officer, said 22 million vaccines have been administered. As of last weekend, more than 57 per cent of those 12 and older had received at least one dose, he said.

Brig.-Gen. Krista Brodie, who is in charge of federal vaccine distribution, said shipments are ramping up with 2.4 million Pfizer-BioNTech doses expected in June and nearly 2.3 million in July. Another 500,000 doses of the Moderna vaccine are expected next week.

Some provinces are dealing with thousands of doses of Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine that are due to expire in a few days.

Federal Health Minister Patty Hajdu has written to provincial and territorial leaders encouraging them not to waste any and to share with each other when they can.

It's not clear how many doses are at risk of being wasted, but Ontario is scrambling to use some 45,000 shots by the end of May. Another 10,000 are set to expire in June.

Newfoundland and Labrador officials said they have returned about 1,400 AstraZeneca doses about to expire to the federal distribution team.

Brodie said work is being done to ensure all are used.

"There's still time before those first doses expire," Brodie said.

Quebec officials announced that province will shorten the delay between first and second AstraZeneca shots to eight weeks from 16 weeks.

Hospitalizations in Quebec are at their lowest level in more than six months and the province has begun to slowly relax restrictions. The 8 p.m. curfew  in place since Jan. 9  was lifted Thursday evening and restaurant patios in some areas have reopened.

Health officials in British Columbia announced that province will also be decreasing the interval between the first and second dose from 16 weeks to eight weeks because of a stable supply of the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines. In Ontario, Premier Doug Ford mulled whether to reopen schools as health officials announced 1,135 new cases and 19 more deaths.

Ford said he has asked experts and education leaders for input on whether it's safe to have children back in classrooms.

Schools have been closed in Ontario since April. But infections have been steadily declining in recent weeksas more people get vaccinated.

Ontario is also considering shortening the interval between doses of vaccines.

A new report from Statistics Canada found that more people are getting on board to be vaccinated.

Data indicates that in January and February, 82 per centof those surveyed said they were somewhat or very likely to get the vaccine. That was slightly up from 80 per cent at the end of last year.

In Alberta, Premier Jason Kenney said that getting a dose "is a free choice" the day after releasing a reopening plan tied to vaccination rates going up.

"Getting the vaccine is a voluntary decision that individuals must make," Kenney said during a news briefing with the chief medical officer of health.

Kenney said his United Conservative Party government would be changing legislation to make sure mandatory vaccination doesn't happen and it would not consider any type of vaccine passport.

Kenney, however, said getting vaccinated was the best way to keep people safe and ensure restrictions were lifted.

"Vaccines are our ticket to getting past the pandemic and getting our lives back."

Officials said 59.9 per cent of Albertans aged 12 and up have had their first dose of a vaccine.

There were 513 new cases of COVID-19 in Alberta Thursday and one more death.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 27, 2021.
A former Winnipeg nurse used the Canadian Border Services Agency, Winnipeg police and dating website Ashley Madison as weapons in separate, unrelenting campaigns of harassment targeting a former manager and an uninterested object of her romantic affection, a court heard Tuesday.

A former Winnipeg nurse used the Canadian Border Services Agency, Winnipeg police and dating website Ashley Madison as weapons in separate, unrelenting "campaigns of harassment" targeting a former manager and an uninterested object of her romantic affection, a court heard Tuesday.

Agnieszka Ciochon-Newton, 53, pleaded guilty to criminal harassment, public mischief, resisting arrest and other charges in a case equal parts Fatal Attraction and a human resources managers worst nightmare.

Ciochon-Newton remains in custody and will be sentenced at a later date.

Agnieszka Ciochon-Newton, 53.

Crown attorney Sheila Doe laid out the case against Ciochon-Newton in a detailed, nearly two-hour long submission, with provincial court Judge Keith Eyrikson regularly confirming whether she agreed with the facts.

"You heard a lot about (one victim) and frankly some of the terrible things you did to him," Eyrikson said. "You agree you did all of these things?"

"Yes, I do," replied Ciochon-Newton, who appeared remotely by video.

Court heard Ciochon-Newton was a registered nurse at St. Boniface General Hospital in 2013 when supervisors, concerned about her performance, placed her in a practice management program, with a manager overseeing her work.

Ciochon-Newton "was clearly showing displeasure with (the managers) instructions" and began bombarding senior hospital administrators, the Manitoba Nurses Union and College of Registered Nurses with letters and emails full of "derogatory remarks and untrue allegations," Doe said.

Ciochon-Newton was placed on administrative leave and ultimately fired.

"It seems fair to say she focused a lot of anger about that on (the manager)," Doe said. "Over the next four years, the accused stalked, harassed and made false allegations about (the victim) to the point it essentially took over her life and was a significant factor in her retirement."

Over the next four years, the accused stalked, harassed and made false allegations about (the victim) to the point it essentially took over her life and was a significant factor in her retirement.

In September 2013, Ciochon-Newton contacted the Canadian Border Services Agency and claimed the victim was going to be "the next Connecticut shooter," prompting a call to the FBI, which opened an investigation into the victims activities. In December, Ciochon-Newton sent the woman a Christmas card alleging she had filed a U.S. lawsuit against her, and included a letter purporting to be from a U.S. lawyer.

In December 2016, Ciochon-Newton called the woman at work, and claimed she was sleeping with her husband. Over the next several months, Ciochon-Newton left the woman numerous voicemail messages containing "female shrieks, panting and sexualized moaning," Doe said.

Ciochon-Newton called city police in March 2017, claiming a man armed with a knife had been driving by her house and following her, and gave police the licence plate number of the victims husbands car. Weeks later, she called police to say the victim was sitting in her car outside her apartment, armed with a gun. Ciochon-Newton made similar allegations in the months that followed.

"The Winnipeg Police Service entered into numerous investigations into all of this," Doe said.

In November 2017, lawyers for St. Boniface hospital  whose senior managers had also been deluged with hundreds of messages from the accused  filed for a protection order on behalf of the victim, at which point the harassment stopped, Doe said.

By this time, Ciochon-Newton had shifted her focus to another victim, a firefighter she met at a yard sale. Court heard the two exchanged phone numbers after Ciochon-Newton asked the man if he would be interested in doing some renovation work at her Osborne Village-area condo.

She continued to send him several messages that had what he described as sexual undertones and he felt they were inappropriate.

The man later met Ciochon-Newton for coffee at her home, but backed out of doing any work for her after comments that made him uncomfortable, Doe said.

"She continued to send him several messages that had what he described as sexual undertones and he felt they were inappropriate," Doe said.

As the man tried to distance himself from her, Ciochon-Newton continued to leave messages and letters for him, as well as "gift" packages outside his house.

The two hadnt seen each other for about a year when in October 2019, Ciochon-Newton left the man a voicemail message saying she had Stage 3 cancer, was going blind and could no longer drive. The man replied with a sympathetic text, after which Ciochon-Newton "began sending many random messages over the next 48 hours," Doe said. The man didnt respond, "feeling there was a problem."

Days later, the man and his girlfriend were sitting at his dining room table when Ciochon-Newton turned up on his deck and saw them through the window. Ciochon-Newton left and a barrage of angry text messages followed, calling the man "a cheater" and "worthless."

A week later, the man arrived home to find a stranger peering through his deck window. Asked what he was doing, the stranger said he was there to meet a woman he had talked to online "for an intimate encounter," Doe said.

Police arrested CiochonNewton days later and charged her with public mischief. CiochonNewton was highly problematic in her conduct and was charged with an additional count of resisting arrest after she bit a police constable.

"He was told what door to enter and to go straight upstairs for sex," Doe said. The victim "was very shaken. Either his daughter, who lived there, or his girlfriend could have been confronted by this stranger looking for sex."

Later that night, the victim received a text from a second man through dating website Ashley Madison, seeking directions to get into his house.

Over the next several days, Ciochon-Newton continued to harass the man, filing bogus complaints with his union and city police, and posting derogatory messages and doctored photographs on Facebook.

The man applied for and was granted a protection order against Ciochon-Newton in November 2019, only to see her apply for and be granted her own protection order against him last August.

"Armed with this protection order... she made several phone calls to police saying she can see him driving by her building, he is parked outside," Doe said.

When police questioned the man, he pointed to his newly installed security cameras and footage showing his car hadn't moved all night.

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Police arrested Ciochon-Newton days later and charged her with public mischief. Ciochon-Newton was "highly problematic in her conduct" and was charged with an additional count of resisting arrest after she bit a police constable, Doe said.

Ciochon-Newton continued to level complaints against the man, alleging to police he had raped her. She also claimed the man had stolen a painting from her, which resulted in him being brought before a disciplinary hearing.

Ciochon-Newton pleaded guilty to additional counts of fraud, forgery and theft, involving an 88-year-old acquaintance from whom she stole and forged cheques for several thousand dollars last September.

She also pleaded guilty to public mischief after falsely accusing a Club Regent casino security guard of sexually assaulting her in a washroom. Ciochon-Newton filed the police complaint after security staff ejected her from the casino last August on suspicion she had been stealing items from a casino store.

dean.pritchard@freepress.mb.ca
Racialized Manitobans are still much more likely to be infected with COVID-19, leading to calls for better protection in the manufacturing and food-processing industries where South Asian, Filipino and African workers are overrepresented.

Racialized Manitobans are still much more likely to be infected with COVID-19, leading to calls for better protection in the manufacturing and food-processing industries where South Asian, Filipino and African workers are overrepresented.

Manitobans who identify as Black, Indigenous or people of colour are contracting the virus at significantly higher rates than white Manitobans. They account for 61 per cent of COVID-19 cases despite making up 37 per cent of the province's population, according to provincial data released Wednesday by Dr. Marcia Anderson, who sits on the vaccine task force.

South and Southeast Asian people in Manitoba are getting infected at six times the rate of Manitobans who identify as white; the infection rate among Black and African Manitobans is more than triple that of white people. Anderson said the data indicate racialized Manitobans are at higher risk of getting the virus because they are more likely to work in high-risk situations and more likely to have unstable housing and lower incomes.

"They're more likely to be essential workers working in person and in lower income groups, and all of these factors have been associated with higher rates of COVID-19," Anderson said.

Manitobans of Southeast Asian heritage had the highest infection rates adjusted for the size of the population in Manitoba, followed by African, South Asian, Filipino and Indigenous people. Earlier this year, some Manitobans who identify as Indian were mistakenly categorized as Southeast Asian instead of South Asian, Anderson said. Together, those two groups have an infection rate of 72.8 per 1,000 people, compared with a rate of 11 per 1,000 for white people.

It's not surprising these groups are more likely to be infected, considering many of them are essential workers in manufacturing and meat-processing plants, said Diwa Marcelino, an organizer with Migrante Manitoba. He's in regular contact with about 200 workers in various fields. Much of those workforces are made up of South Asian and Filipino people, he said.

The provincial government doesn't release data on workplace transmission of COVID-19 unless an outbreak is deemed to put the public at risk.

Marcelino said even though workers have a right to know about job hazards, plant workers have told him a significant number of their coworkers have been absent, but they aren't always told why. Workplaces should be required to improve ventilation and provide respirator masks to prevent the spread of the virus, he said.

"We see that these workers are at particular risk," said Marcelino, adding not enough has changed in the past year to stop the spread among essential workers.

"This virus has been raging in racialized communities for some time."

The figures Anderson presented Wednesday were current as of May 11, 2021. They show the problem is getting worse: in March, a provincial report stated racialized people accounted for 51 per cent of COVID infections and were at particular risk in the manufacturing sector.

As of early May, Winnipeggers in designated "hot spot" neighbourhoods were only beginning to be eligible for vaccines, and Manitoba's vaccine rollout has largely relied on age-based eligibility rather than prioritizing vaccines for specific workplaces or ethnic groups, other than Indigenous people.

On Wednesday, 310 new COVID-19 cases, and one death, were recorded in Manitoba. The provincewide test positivity rate is 13.3 per cent.

 with files from Danielle Da Silva

katie.may@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @thatkatiemay
IN less than six weeks, Manitoba went from having no official cases of the highly contagious P.1 variant to detecting 99.

IN less than six weeks, Manitoba went from having no official cases of the highly contagious P.1 variant to detecting 99.

The variant of concern that spread rapidly across Brazil arrived in Manitoba in mid-April.

Over the May long weekend, the province recorded its first death linked to the strain: a woman in her 70s from the Winnipeg health region. P.1 is now present in almost every region (minus the north).

Early international studies indicated P.1 was much more contagious than other strains of COVID-19, and the existing vaccines were less effective against it.

Staying ahead of variants of concern and emerging strains of COVID-19 makes the provincial rollout of second vaccine doses more urgent, said epidemiologist Souradet Shaw, an assistant professor at the University of Manitoba who holds the Canada Research Chair in program science and global public health.

"The evidence illustrates that having two doses is still pretty effective against them. Thats really the best tool that we have," Shaw said.

Provincial data updated Tuesday listed 84 P.1 cases as recovered. In total, there have been 9,104 COVID-19 cases involving highly contagious variants of concern in Manitoba; 54 people who contracted them have died.

Its important for Manitoba to keep track of the impact of P.1 and other variants of concern as part of its planning, Shaw said, because theyre going to be around for the foreseeable future.

"I think we should definitely be concerned about what the impact of the new variants might be, at least in the medium term. Weve seen how quickly B.1.1.7 has been able to become the dominant strain in many places, but I think its also important to contextualize when it comes to these new variants of concern," Shaw said.

Manitobas high infection rate is still being driven by the dominant B.1.1.7 (first detected in the United Kingdom), rather than the variants that caused devastation in Brazil or India, he added.

Shaw said investments in the machinery of public health, including labs, public health nurses and analysts, is necessary to stay on top of these variants, which he describes as an "ever-changing threat."

"What this illustrates is that were in this for the long haul. So what our future holds is a bit unclear at this point. Are we going to need booster shots for these new variants? There could be vaccine passports (and other unknowns)," Shaw said.

"But what this clearly points to is that investments in public health need to be made  and I cant stress that enough."

katie.may@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @thatkatiemay
EDUCATION Minister Clifford Cullen recently unveiled a plan to move Manitoba to a highly centralized governance education system. School boards will cease to exist. Public school budgets will be set and funded, virtually exclusively, by the provincial government.

Opinion

EDUCATION Minister Clifford Cullen recently unveiled a plan to move Manitoba to a highly centralized governance education system. School boards will cease to exist. Public school budgets will be set and funded, virtually exclusively, by the provincial government.

We argue this new regime of education funding and governance raises some serious questions.

Question 1: What does the interprovincial comparison of per-student expenditure tell us?

The Manitoba government is concerned about provincial per-student funding being some of the highest in Canada. The Fraser Institute data on this indeed shows that our per-pupil expenditure on public schooling for 2017-18 of $14,815 makes Manitoba the third-highest spending province after Saskatchewan ($16,038) and New Brunswick ($15,000).

Such a comparison does not necessarily mean that our provincial system is less efficient or that funds are not being spent wisely. These differences reflect multiple factors, such as the costs required to provide quality schooling in our province compared to other provinces.

Interprovincial comparisons have their place, but they need to be made carefully. Single, overall measures, whether they be per-pupil expenditures or scores on international reading, math and science, tell us very little. Also, lets not forget that a well-funded public school system staffed by well-paid teachers is something to be proud of.

Question 2: Does the new funding approach provide for a more equitable source of funding for public schooling?

Full provincial funding does remove a funding inequity that currently exists. Different school divisions have different total assessed property values, allowing wealthier school divisions to more easily raise revenue through property taxes than poorer divisions. However, this inequity could have been addressed in several other ways.

In 2017-18, the provincial share of operating costs for public schooling was 60.9 per cent, with almost all of the rest coming from local property taxes. If this 60/40 ratio was shifted to be closer to 80/20, as has been advocated in the past  an aim of the previous NDP government at one point  then this inequity would be reduced.

A strengthening of existing provincial equalization payments would also enable the elimination of this problem, without dismantling school boards or stripping them of all taxing authority.

Placing all funding decisions in the hands of a centrally appointed Provincial Education Council approved by the minister will limit funding equity. Regional budgets are still likely to be determined by a combination of block grants (per-pupil funding) and categorical grants (specific student and program needs). Their fairness and equity in meeting the needs of students in the different local contexts will remain a challenge.

Equally importantly, other provinces where school boards lost their power to raise local taxes to fund education, such as Ontario, have seen a drastic increase in individual schools fundraising to meet their students needs. This school-based fundraising solution has led to sharpened inequities between schools because some schools enrol students from wealthier family backgrounds compared to other schools.

Question 3: Does the new centralized structure provide "better value for money"?

The government tells us the new centralized structure improves efficiency, standardization and system alignment. However, their view is built on severe assumptions. They assume we have a clear, unambiguous notion of the goals of education and schools. They also assume we have an equally clear understanding of how to accomplish that education to all students across the province. We dont and, to an extent, we shouldnt.

Public education in a modern democracy needs public participation in an ongoing discussion about purposes, and how to fund for quality education. Such discussion needs a broadly based, evidence-informed "deep learning" between educators and community members. Removing school boards and school trustees is likely to significantly weaken the quality of these education discussions. Equity without citizen participation is a shallow concept in a democratic society.

As this legislation gets implemented, more questions remain: where will the minister and the Provincial Education Council turn to for its expertise? Why cant we build a strong, collaborative system of local and provincial research that draws on expertise from Manitoba School Board Association, Manitoba Teachers Society and universities in order to improve our education policies and practice?

Ee-Seul Yoon is an associate professor and Jon Young is professor emeritus in the department of educational administration, foundations and psychology, in the faculty of education at the University of Manitoba.
YEARS ago, I startled a McNally Robinson cashier when I bought a copy of the very conservative National Review magazine and its political opposite, The New Republic. In reply to his What gives? expression, I explained, I read right and I read left, and then I make up my own mind.

Opinion

YEARS ago, I startled a McNally Robinson cashier when I bought a copy of the very conservative National Review magazine and its political opposite, The New Republic. In reply to his "What gives?" expression, I explained, "I read right and I read left, and then I make up my own mind."

But what if one side wasnt available?

Last month, 200 employees of prominent American publisher Simon and Schuster signed a petition demanding their employer not publish the memoirs of any officials of the Donald Trump administration. The book in question was a memoir by former U.S. vice-president Mike Pence.

Revolts by publishers staff members are a relatively new development. In March 2020, the Hachette Book Group decided not to publish filmmaker Woody Allens memoirs after staff members walked out in protest, in response to sexual-misconduct allegations against the author. One assumes the Simon and Schuster employees were encouraged by this.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the employees petition said, in part, that "When S&S chose to sign Mike Pence, we broke the publics trust in our editorial process, and blatantly contradicted previous public claims in support of Black and other lives made vulnerable by structural oppression."

Now, no company should be compelled to publish odious material such as hate literature or violent, misogynist pornography. But objectively, one would be hard-pressed to imagine a Pence volume will fall into any such category.

To his credit, company CEO Jonathan Karp held fast: "As a publisher in this polarized era, we have experienced outrage from both sides of the political divide and from different constituencies and groups. But we come to work each day to publish, not cancel, which is the most extreme decision a publisher can make, and one that runs counter to the very core of our mission to publish a diversity of voices and perspectives."

Simon and Schuster published Donald Trumps Great Again: How to Fix Our Crippled America, as well as his estranged niece Mary Trumps vitriolic Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the Worlds Most Dangerous Man. (On the other hand, one day after the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, the company cancelled plans to publish Republican Sen. Josh Hawleys book on Big Tech "after his role in what became a dangerous threat to our democracy and freedom.")

Regardless, political memoirs let leaders tell it their way, uninterrupted by persistent journalists at press conferences, and undeterred by negative responses by op-ed columnists. Obviously, theyre extremely self-serving (theres a reason Nancy Reagan called her autobiography My Turn).

But theyre certainly worth publishing. Presumably, theyre a prestige project and they can be very lucrative for both publisher and the author. Former first lady Michelle Obamas Becoming sold more than eight million copies. Volume 1 of her husbands memoir A Promised Land was released in November in 25 languages, with an initial press run of three million copies, just for the U.S. edition.

And more importantly, they make a valuable contribution to history. Twenty years from now, can one accurately research the Trump administration without reading the perspectives of those who were in it?

June 17, 2022, will mark the 50th anniversary of the Watergate break-in. Undoubtedly, there will be perspective pieces in various newspapers and magazines, and perhaps books with new revelations. Could writers write them without the memoirs of the perpetrators  Charles Colson, John Dean, John Ehrlichman, H.R. Haldeman and, of course, Richard Nixon?

Even the most ardent anti-Trump readers could find worthwhile material in a Pence memoir. How did Trump react when Pence wouldnt stop the electoral colleges vote for U.S. President Joe Biden? What was it like when the U.S. Capitol was attacked by people who were as mad at Pence as they were at Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi? How will Pence explain the Trump administrations slow-off-the-mark response to the coronavirus pandemic?

Refusing to release anything by Trump administration officials is a horrible idea. There may be some reasons for censorship, but blind hatred of Donald Trump isnt one of them.

Indeed, one can predict the American publishing industry becoming as divided as Americas so-called cable news channels. For most of them, the term "news" is a misnomer; theyre really opinion outlets. MSNBC appeals to the left; CNN, which used to live in the middle, is headed in that direction. Fox News is unapologetically for the right, and in 2014 dropped its dubious "Fair and Balanced" motto.

You can find all the opinion you could want, covering the entire political spectrum, but limited amounts of straight news. And when these networks do present the news, can you believe it, given their blatant editorial biases?

Granted, there are already unapologetic left- and right-wing publishers. But mainstream publishers shouldnt have to choose sides, which is what Simon and Schuster wouldve done if it had listened to its disgruntled staff.

Let Pences memoir be published. Some will take it as gospel, others with a grain of salt. It might make the bestseller list, or be quickly relegated to remainder tables.

And if anyone is really bothered by it, let them write books or articles to the contrary.

Arthur Chapman is a Winnipeg writer.
The problem of homelessness in Winnipeg is as obvious as the bus shelters and riverbank encampments occupied by people with no better place to go. Winnipeggers who encounter the distressing sight typically shake their heads and mutter, Someone should do something. Commendably, someone is.

The problem of homelessness in Winnipeg is as obvious as the bus shelters and riverbank encampments occupied by people with no better place to go. Winnipeggers who encounter the distressing sight typically shake their heads and mutter, "Someone should do something." Commendably, someone is.

Businessman and philanthropist John Pollard will pay half of the $8-million cost of building an apartment block in the Centennial neighbourhood that will house 47 people. The remainder will be paid by three levels of government. Construction begins this summer on the three-storey complex at 390 Ross Ave., which is scheduled to open in the fall of 2022.

Biz owner pays $4 million for inner-city housing Click to Expand MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS John Pollard, co-CEO of Pollard Banknote Ltd., speaks at the Manitoba Legislature Friday. The governments of Canada and Manitoba are partnering with the Pollard family to build new housing for the protection of vulnerable homeless populations with mental health or addiction issues in Winnipegs Centennial neighbourhood. Posted: 5:54 PM May. 21, 2021 The plight of Winnipeg's homeless population weighed on the mind of philanthropist John Pollard after he bought a downtown hotel and tenants had to move into rooming houses. "There has to be a better way for them to live," said Pollard, co-CEO of Pollard Banknote. If we want to deal with the homelessness problem, I think we've got to build homes. Read Full Story

The different twist with this apartment block will be the residents. Its intended for people who are living rough. Unlike many shelters options for people who are experiencing homelessness, would-be tenants wont have to dry out from alcohol and drug use before they are considered for their own unit. The building is intended for people who are dealing with addictions, mental illnesses or domestic abuse.

The plan echoes the Housing First policy that has gained popularity in recent decades, with variations of it tried in hundreds of communities. In Winnipeg, examples include the Bell Hotel on Main Street, which closed its beverage room and, in 2011, became a low-income housing complex that accepts people without sobriety requirements, and offers on-site support staff.

The theory behind Housing First is that people experiencing homelessness are using all their physical and emotional energy to survive on the streets, and consequently many lack the stability and supports to kick their habits or treat their mental illnesses. Once they are safely ensconced in permanent housing, the hope is that they will be better able to address the root causes of their homelessness with the help of treatment and counselling.

To that end, plans for the Centennial apartment complex include counsellors on-site 24/7. Residents will live in their own micro-apartment, complete with a washroom and cooking facilities. To inspire connections among residents, the building will also include communal spaces such as television and game rooms. The province will fund the accommodations by allocating welfare and housing transfers.

Does it work? Is Housing First a realistic solution to Winnipegs homelessness issue?

Answers to such questions are provided by academic studies that have examined Housing First initiatives in the 35-or-so years since it began in California and became government policy in some countries.

Unfortunately, Housing First has not proven to be a magic wand. There is little evidence to support the initial sky-high optimism that, once given stable housing, most people suffering homelessness will overcome their personal problems and go on to secure employment and become contributing members of the community.

Expectations that are more realistic, however, have been met. Homelessness has obviously been addressed for the individuals who move into the residences, and this can save tax dollars when "high utilizer" people dont require the extensive levels of police and medical services associated with living in precarious circumstances.

An advantage that is more difficult for academic studies to quantify is the respectful manner in which Housing First policy regards people who need help. Initiatives such as the planned Centennial apartment complex offer a humane alternative to the desperation and danger of life on the streets.

Housing First initiatives accept homeless people as they are, and offer them an unreserved welcome. For showing compassion to such vulnerable Winnipeggers, such projects warrant full support.
Tonight in Ohio, nearly 3 million people who got a shot had a shot at winning $1 million.

Tonight in Manitoba, more concerns are being raised about how to encourage more Manitobans to get the shot.

Im not saying Ohios Vax-a-Million lottery is the solution to the vexing vaccination hesitancy problem there and everywhere.

But in little more than a week since rolling out the immunization incentive, Gov. Mike DeWine says his states vaccination rate jumped by 45 per cent.

The Republican governors bet involves putting up five weekly prizes of $1 million that will go to a lucky winner who has had at least one dose of a vaccine. To help boost the immunization rate of those under age 18, a full-ride scholarship at an Ohio university is the prize for kids who have also had one shot.

Of course, DeWines gamble has attracted criticism, especially by those who complain its a waste of tax dollars.

To which DeWine told CNN today: "What I think is a waste is now to have a vaccine that can save people's lives and to have someone die from the COVID because they didnt get vaccinated. That is a horrible waste."

For comparison purposes, DeWines lottery is happening in a state that already has 39 per cent of its residents fully vaccinated and is facing a test positivity rate of 3.78 per cent. By comparison, only 8.2 per cent of Manitobans are fully vaccinated in the countrys COVID hotspot that has the dubious distinction of a test positivity rate of 13.3 per cent.

Manitobas vaccine task force is now adjusting its strategy to reach people who have been on the fringes of the rollout. Theres also a growing realization that non-white Manitobans frequently at a greater risk of COVID may have a lower vaccine uptake.

Manitobas vaccine task force is now adjusting its strategy to reach people who have been on the fringes of the rollout. Theres also a growing realization that non-white Manitobans frequently at a greater risk of COVID may have a lower vaccine uptake.

Would a vaccine lottery be a better way to connect with those communities and drive up uptake? Im betting Manitoba Lotteries has no shortage of data it could share to help answer that question.

In the meantime, Im willing to wager DeWines lottery will be more effective at speeding vaccinations than a premier playing a longshot that involves a whine about President Joe Biden blocking doses from North Dakota coming to Manitoba.

 Paul Samyn, Winnipeg Free Press editor

THE LATEST NUMBERS

Note: Manitoba and Canada figures may not match due to differences in data sources.

THE LATEST IN MANITOBA

 Provincial health officials reported 312 new cases of COVID-19 and one death Wednesday. There are 4,792 active cases in Manitoba, with 318 people in hospital, 74 of them in intensive care. The five-day test positivity rate is 13.3 per cent in Manitoba, and 15 per cent in Winnipeg after 2,297 lab tests were completed Tuesday. The death reported is a woman in her 90s from the Winnipeg health region, linked to the outbreak at Holy Family Home. Of the new cases announced Wednesday, 240 are in the Winnipeg health region, with 34 in Southern Health, 20 in Interlake-Eastern, 11 in Prairie Mountain and 7 in the Northern health region.

 Vaccine Eligibility: All Manitobans 12 and older are eligible for first-dose vaccinations at supersites and pop-up clinics. All Indigenous people 12 and older, and individuals with priority conditions, are eligible for second doses. As of Wednesday, anyone who received either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine on or before March 29 can also now book a second dose appointment. First or second dose appointments can be booked by calling 1-844-626-8222 between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. or by going online at wfp.to/eligibility. More information on booking vaccinations and eligibility can be found at wfp.to/eligibility.

 The Manitoba government said 102 tickets were issued last week for violations of COVID-19 public health orders. Most were fines for unauthorized gatherings in private homes or outdoors. Twenty-two tickets were issued in relation to anti-restriction rallies in Winnipeg earlier in the month, and follow dozens of tickets issued in the previous two weeks stemming from those same rallies.

 For the latest information on current public health orders, restrictions, essential items and other guidance, visit the provincial government's website.

THE LATEST ELSEWHERE

 Canada has surpassed 20 million people getting at least their first dose. Ontario reported that 135,308 people got vaccinated Tuesday, 81 per cent of them with the first dose. Those vaccinations put Canada up to 20.05 million people vaccinated. That is about 63 per cent of eligible Canadians over the age of 12, and almost 53 per cent of everyone, including children under the age of 12 who won't become eligible to be vaccinated for several more months. Chief public health officer Dr. Theresa Tam has set a marker of 75 per cent of eligible people getting one dose, and 20 per cent with both doses, as a safe place to start lifting many restrictions on outdoor activities, and 75 per cent of everyone fully vaccinated to lift most restrictions overall.

 Indigenous Services Minister Marc Miller says more than 75 per cent of Indigenous adults have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Miller says there are about 741 active cases in First Nations communities. He says Indigenous people in Manitoba, which has the highest rate of new coronavirus infections in the country, can book their second vaccine shot. Miller says the Canadian Armed Forces continues to support vaccine rollout in 11 Indigenous communities across the country. Dr. Tom Wong, chief medical officer of public health at Indigenous Services, says active case counts have dropped drastically over the past couple months.

 The federal government was unable to meet more than half of the demands for nurses and paramedics from Indigenous communities and organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Auditor general Karen Hogan says Indigenous Services Canada had not addressed the shortage of health-care workers in Indigenous communities. "When you already start with a shortage of health care workers, the pandemic makes that gap even worse," she said. Hogan noted the department expanded access to contract nurses and paramedics to all Indigenous communities and streamlined its hiring processes. But with increasing demand, the department was unable to meet more than half of the 963 of the requests for such personnel to be made available.

 Alberta Premier Jason Kenney said the province will soon start lifting some public health restrictions and most will be gone by early July. He said the government's "open for summer" plan is possible because Albertans have "crushed" a spike in COVID-19 cases and are getting vaccinated. The capacity for places of worship is to be increased to 15 per cent on Friday, and hair salons and restaurant patios can open on Tuesday. Kenney says movie theatres, libraries and gyms will be allowed to open and indoor dining restaurants will be able to offer indoor dining as of mid-June. Alberta health officials reported 390 new cases of COVID-19 and six new deaths Wednesday.

 Yukon's chief medical officer and its premier say the "strong" vaccine uptake in the territory allows for the relaxation of restrictions not seen elsewhere in Canada. Dr. Brendan Hanley says 77 per cent of eligible Yukon residents have received their first dose of vaccine and 69 per cent have had a second shot. He says those figures put Yukon in a favourable position compared with B.C., which has just outlined its reopening plan, and Manitoba, which has been hit hard by a new wave of COVID-19. Premier Sandy Silver says the territory is "well ahead" of its neighbours when it comes to vaccination and relaxing health restrictions.

 U.S. President Joe Biden is asking intelligence agencies to "redouble" efforts to investigate the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. He says there is insufficient evidence to conclude "whether it emerged from human contact with an infected animal or from a laboratory accident." Biden directed U.S. national laboratories to assist with the investigation and called on China to co-operate with international probes into the origins of the pandemic. He held out the possibility that a firm conclusion may never be known, given the Chinese governments refusal to fully co-operate with international investigations. The U.S. leads the world with 33.1 million confirmed coronavirus cases and 591,000 confirmed deaths.

 The European Union took on vaccine producer AstraZeneca in a Brussels court on Wednesday and accused it of diverting promised doses to other nations when it had promised them for urgent delivery among the 27 member states. The bloc accused the Anglo-Swedish company of pushing EU deliveries back so it could give them to Britain, among other nations. EU lawyer Rafael Jafferali asked the court to impose a fine of 10 million euros (US$12.2 million) per infraction. AstraZenecas contract signed with the European Commission, the EUs executive arm, on behalf of member states foresaw an initial 300 million doses for distribution among all 27 countries, with an option for another 100 million. The doses were expected to be delivered throughout 2021. But only 30 million were sent during the first quarter.

 Pakistan is offering shots to its entire adult population in hopes of boosting COVID-19 vaccination rates, with only five per cent of the population inoculated so far. Minister for Planning and Development Asad Umar announced on Twitter that the registration of those ages 19 and above will begin from Thursday. So far, the vaccination was open to those 30 years and above. Pakistan has reported a steady decline in infections and fatalities from COVID-19 in recent days, but the vaccination response has been sluggish. The only shots given are three Chinese-made vaccines. Pakistan has registered 908,576 confirmed cases and 20,465 deaths since last year.

QUOTE, UNQUOTE

"We're leaving the darkest days of the pandemic behind and stepping into the warm light of summer"

 Alberta Premier Jason Kenney announcing a plan to lift restrictions  as long as people continue to get vaccinated

LOCAL NEWS

NATIONAL NEWS

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

COVID-19 BASICS
In every possible way, this family would qualify as model citizens during the COVD-19 pandemic.

In every possible way, this family would qualify as model citizens during the COVD-19 pandemic.

They have been my good friends for a long time. As a result, I know this family operates well within the rules set down by public health orders: no barbecues with other households; masks and clean hands are de rigueur; only going out for work and essentials; and getting vaccinated as quickly as the system will allow.

And yet, three of four family members were infected with COVID-19 in the last month.

The vector in this case was the eldest child, in his early 20s, believed to be exposed to the novel coronavirus at his part-time job. Even though he wears a face covering religiously while at work, and had been vaccinated three days earlier, he got quite ill and spread it to his mother (who was two days away from being vaccinated) and younger sister.

The father, vaccinated 10 days before the exposure, was spared.

This experience both reminds us about the threat posed by COVID-19, and the extent to which we don't really know how and where people are getting infected.

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister and, to a lesser degree, chief provincial public health officer Dr. Brent Roussin, vigorously attribute the third wave of COVID-19 to people violating orders and refusing or delaying vaccination.

Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister and, to a lesser degree, chief provincial public health officer Dr. Brent Roussin, vigorously attribute the third wave of COVID-19 to people violating orders and refusing or delaying vaccination.

It's a politically convenient assertion that diverts attention away from the Tory government's objectionable pandemic response, and focuses instead on the role of individuals.

The problem is: most of us know people who are doing all the right things and still getting sick.

So, on what basis can Pallister justify his argument?

The most compelling source comes from hospital admissions.

Roughly 70 per cent of people admitted to hospital for COVID-19 are unvaccinated. Pallister described them as "Manitobans who did not bother to take an hour or two and go out and get a life-saving vaccine."

There can be no doubt some had no intention of getting vaccinated; roughly 20 per cent of the population would identify as vaccine hesitant, and it makes sense they would be overrepresented in hospitalizations.

THE CANADIAN PRESS/Mikaela MacKenzie - POOL Roughly 70 per cent of people admitted to hospital for COVID-19 are unvaccinated. Pallister described them as "Manitobans who did not bother to take an hour or two and go out and get a life-saving vaccine."

However, it's more likely an equal or even larger share of the hospitalized got sick while waiting to be vaccinated. Even though Manitoba has made progress in getting first shots into arms, there is still a lengthy lag for most who book an appointment.

Which brings us to rule breakers: how many people are defying public health orders?

That's really hard to say, because although Pallister and public health officials frequently cite rule breakers as a major cause of new infections, they almost never attempt to quantify that constituency.

(AP FILE/Mindaugas Kulbis) We know, for example, slightly more than one per cent of all cases are related to travel, and half of all infections are acquired from someone in the same household.

We know, for example, slightly more than one per cent of all cases are related to travel, and half of all infections are acquired from someone in the same household.

Roussin has occasionally said about 15 per cent of cases are related to "social gatherings."

However, Roussin has also said a "significant" proportion of total cases are categorized as "community transmission," which is epidemiological speak for no known origin.

What is "significant" in actual numbers? The province won't release that information, though there is little doubt it exists.

There is increasing concern the Pallister government is concealing key epidemiological data to conceal the threat posed at workplaces.

Early this year, the CBC obtained data that show about 40 per cent of cases were of an unknown source. For those cases where a source could be identified, the locations of greatest risk were offices, retail locations, health-care facilities, schools/daycares, congregate facilities, transportation and food industries.

Even as we suffer through the worst outbreak on the continent, Pallister has flatly refused to order a full lockdown.

Oddly, however, there is no workplace category featured in the data posted on the province's COVID-19 online dashboard.

At this stage of the pandemic, we can safely conclude it's not posted because officials would prefer the public not know, for obvious reasons.

Even as we suffer through the worst outbreak on the continent, Pallister has flatly refused to order a full lockdown. That would require the closure of non-essential workplaces and almost inevitably ramp up demands for government to provide more support to businesses.

In his desperate bid to contain expenditures, it seems as if the premier has forgotten the decisive action he took at the start of the pandemic.

On April 1, 2020, just three weeks after Manitoba's first confirmed case, Pallister shut everything down for a month. That swift action effectively limited the spread of the virus, and allowed the premier to spend most of the summer crowing about how Manitoba "beat COVID."

Pallister did not use the same approach for the second and third waves, stopping short of a total lockdown. The result has been thousands of new cases and hundreds of lost lives.

Pallister did not use the same approach for the second and third waves, stopping short of a total lockdown. The result has been thousands of new cases and hundreds of lost lives.

Failing to lock down the province in the face of a critical public health threat makes the premier look stubborn and incompetent.

Choosing instead to lock down data that proves the need to lock down the whole province? That's downright contemptible.

dan.lett@freepress.mb.ca
OTTAWA  Military nurses are set to begin working in Manitoba hospitals as of Friday, while air force personnel will help transport COVID-19 patients to other jurisdictions.

OTTAWA  Military nurses are set to begin working in Manitoba hospitals as of Friday, while air force personnel will help transport COVID-19 patients to other jurisdictions.

"The Canadian Armed Forces is deploying resources to help alleviate pressure on the Manitoba health-care system, as a result of an increase in COVID-19 cases," spokeswoman Jessica Lamirande wrote.

The deployment is set to last four weeks.

Most of the staffing will involve two teams of critical-care nursing officers and medical technicians, who will be deployed at separate times to ensure the military doesnt overload its staff.

Theyll report to the local healthy authority. On Thursday, it was still being determined which facilities they would be assigned to. In addition to helping patients, technicians will help with planning and logistics as needed.

The military says its offering up to three laboratory technicians to help with COVID-19 testing, "critical care patient aeromedical transportation" and other staff available for general needs.

There is no set number yet, but all deployed staff will have had an opportunity to be vaccinated, and will wear protective equipment.

The staff will come from the 3rd Canadian Division, which is based in Edmonton and has units across Western Canada, as well as the Air Force and the Canadian Forces Health Services Centre.

The Manitoba government included the military in its request for assistance which was formally submitted Monday.

By June 25, the military will assess Manitoba's COVID-19 situation, and whether the province still needs help.

dylan.robertson@freepress.mb.ca
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-26 23:29:13|Editor: huaxia

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DAR ES SALAAM, May 26 (Xinhua) -- Tanzania and the African Development Bank (AfDB) on Wednesday signed two loan agreements worth 140 million U.S. dollars to finance the Malagarasi hydropower project in Kigoma region.

The agreements were signed in the commercial capital Dar es Salaam between the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Finance and Planning, Emmanuel Tutuba and AfDB director general for East Africa, Nnenna Nwabufo.

A statement issued by the Ministry of Finance and Planning said 120 million dollars of the loan will be made available through the AfDB window and 20 million dollars through Africa Growing Together Fund.

The statement said the Malagarasi hydropower project is a greenfield investment, which will build a brand new 49.5-megawatt grid-connected power generation facility with an average annual energy production of 181 gigawatt hours of electricity.

The project's development objective is to improve power supply in western Tanzania and contribute to the country's socio-economic transformation and poverty reduction, said the statement. Enditem
Despite record COVID-19 infection levels and alarming hospital admission numbers, Manitoba is not far off from releasing a detailed reopening plan.

Despite record COVID-19 infection levels and alarming hospital admission numbers, Manitoba is not far off from releasing a detailed reopening plan.

That may seem premature  even absurd  at this point, with officials continuing to transfer COVID-19 patients out of province and test-positivity rates in the double digits. But a detailed plan outlining when restrictions will be loosened, based, in part, on vaccine uptake, could be only a couple of weeks away.

Saskatchewan preparing for first step in its provincial reopening plan this weekend Click to Expand Saskatchewan chief medical health officer, Dr. Saqib Shahab, speaks at a COVID-19 media update at the Legislative Building in Regina on Wednesday Dec. 9, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Michael Bell Posted: 6:50 PM May. 25, 2021 REGINA - The government of Saskatchewan is preparing to start easing restrictions Sunday as the first step in its reopening plan. It comes three weeks after 70 per cent of the province's residents aged 40 and older received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Read Full Story

Saskatchewan was the first province to release a multi-phased reopening plan last month using immunization levels as markers for easing restrictions.

The first phase of the province's three-step plan requires 70 per cent of residents over the age of 40 to be vaccinated. Restrictions are loosened three weeks after each step is reached.

Saskatchewan hit its first marker May 9, which will allow measures to be eased May 30. On Sunday, bars and restaurants will reopen, places of worship can operate at 30 per cent capacity and public gatherings of up to 150 people outdoors will be permitted. The province has reached its Step 2 threshold (vaccinating 70 per cent of residents over age 30), which will allow further easing in June.

Provinces such as British Columbia and Ontario have released similar plans. Alberta unveiled its reopening timeline Wednesday.

While that may seem out of reach for Manitoba, a province still struggling with the highest infection rates in the country, there are signs the province could soon release a plan of its own.

After a slow start, Manitobas vaccine rollout is catching up with other provinces. Its not far behind Saskatchewan, which reached its Step 2 threshold Monday. Manitoba is poised to hit that marker this week (it was 69 per cent Tuesday).

The problem is infection rates and daily case counts in Manitoba are still too high for government to publicly discuss a reopening plan. It would send the wrong message. The only thing that matters right now is staying home and following public-health orders.

However, restrictions imposed May 9 are beginning to work. After peaking at 603 new cases May 20, daily case numbers have been declining; there were 312 cases reported Wednesday. Its too early to identify trends, but its a good sign.

The falling case numbers come as no surprise. Strict public-health measures have worked in the past and theyre working again (even if some people dont follow the rules). Current restrictions should have been implemented in April when there were clear signs from other provinces that highly contagious variant strains of the virus were causing significant transmission. Manitoba could have avoided the current crisis.

Vaccines may be playing a small part in the declining numbers. But with only 44 per cent of Manitobans over the age of 18 immunized as of May 9 (it takes two to three weeks for vaccines to start working) its likely having only a minimal effect.

That impact will grow over time. More than 60 per cent of Manitoba adults have now received at least one shot and the province is on track to hit 70 per cent in early June.

The question now is, how far do infection rates and hospitalizations need to fall before government can announce a reopening plan? Thats less clear. By delaying the implementation of restrictions and allowing the situation to get as bad as it has, Manitoba has lost the luxury of using vaccine thresholds alone as reopening markers.

If vaccine rates were the only criteria, Manitoba could reopen bars and restaurants and allow household visits as early as next week, as Saskatchewan is doing. Obviously, thats not going to happen.

The next best thing is to reduce case numbers and hospitalizations to a level where the province can at least announce a plan. There are good reasons to do so. It would not only give Manitobans much-needed hope and allow businesses and not-for-profits to plan, it could also serve as an incentive for people to get vaccinated.

Manitoba needs a reopening plan sooner rather than later. The timing will be critical.

tom.brodbeck@freepress.mb.ca
Questions are being raised about the handling of critically ill COVID-19 patients after a Manitoban infected with the virus died during an attempt to transfer them to an ICU in Ontario.

Questions are being raised about the handling of critically ill COVID-19 patients after a Manitoban infected with the virus died during an attempt to transfer them to an ICU in Ontario.

"These patients can go from being stable to incredibly unstable very quickly," Manitoba Nurses Union president Darlene Jackson said Wednesday.

"What Ive been hearing from nurses is, they cant believe how quickly a patient can go from, you know, talking and theyre doing OK, until theyre crashing," Jackson said in an interview. "So thats something very specific to COVID at this time  how quickly those patients conditions can change."

Shared Health wouldnt reveal many details of the incident, other than to say the patient who was identified for transport to a hospital in an unnamed Ontario city, did "destabilize" prior to takeoff earlier this week.

"The patient was provided with care by the critical-care transport team and immediately returned to the sending facility. We can confirm the patient passed away the following day," a spokesman for Shared Health said in an email Wednesday. No information was given about the age, gender or health region of the patient, or what day they died.

CBC News identified the woman as Brandon resident Krystal Mousseau, whose family said she died Monday, a day after she was supposed to be transferred to Ottawa for care.

MIKE DEAL / FREE PRESS FILES Acting Health Minister Kelvin Goertzen said he couldn't comment on the circumstances of a specific situation and that he was seeking more information.

After question period Wednesday, acting health minister Kelvin Goertzen said he couldnt comment on the circumstances of a specific situation and that he was seeking more information. "I do know, because its been a year into this, that COVID patients do destabilize quickly in a variety of different circumstances  not simply related to flight," he told reporters.

NDP Leader Wab Kinew said Manitobans deserve answers about the incident, including whether the attempt to transfer the patient resulted in their death.

"Would this Manitoban have passed away if they had not been moved?" Kinew said to reporters after raising the matter in the legislature.

"I think there is a legitimate question to ask as to whether this person would have survived had they been allowed to remain in the intensive care unit bed that they were in."

The patient was provided with care by the criticalcare transport team and immediately returned to the sending facility. We can confirm the patient passed away the following day.  Spokesman for Shared Health

As of Wednesday, Manitoba had sent 23 critically ill patients from its overwhelmed intensive care units to hospitals in Ontario.

On Tuesday, Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said his province could take as many as five critical-care patients from Manitoba.

Manitobans should be told if the standards of care being employed for transporting very sick patients out of province are adequate, said Kinew.

"When you move somebody whos in a medically induced coma, whos on a ventilator, you are adding risk. Youre adding risk that was not there if they were simply allowed to remain in the same bed in the same hospital," the Opposition leader said.

Shared Health said that patients who are selected for transport to an out-of-province ICU "are carefully assessed by the critical-care team and detailed discussions occur between the sending and receiving care teams." Its spokesman said "rapid deterioration and death of COVID-19 patients requiring critical care is not uncommon and cannot be predicted, whether in the ICU or during transport," but "no patients have died during transport to ICU in another province."

DANIEL CRUMP / FREE PRESS FILES NDP Leader Wab Kinew said Manitobans deserve answers about the incident, including whether the attempt to transfer the patient resulted in their death.

Kinew criticized the government for not being more forthcoming sooner about the incident involving the patient who died.

He accused the premier and the health minister of feigning a lack of knowledge about the incident to avoid answering hard questions in the legislature.

"I find it impossible to believe that people would volunteer this information to the leader of the Opposition and that the government would not be aware," he said.

Goertzen said he didnt receive information about it until before question period Wednesday, and that he, too, was asking questions about it.

In addition, Goertzen, who is acting health minister while Heather Stefanson is on medical leave, said that transporting patients within the province, and to other provinces, is not a new practice.

"In terms of who gets transported  that, I dont think, is new within the health-care system," Goertzen said. "Doctors have been using their clinical advice in terms of who is able to withstand, who is able to go through, a transport process. Thats been happening for many years."

I find it impossible to believe that people would volunteer this information to the leader of the Opposition and that the government would not be aware.  NDP Leader Wab Kinew

Right now, the province is focused on ICU capacity and extending the longstanding medical relationships it has with its neighbours, including Ontario, Saskatchewan and North Dakota, Goertzen said.

"We have had discussions with North Dakota and Grand Forks that if we need that capacity, I believe there might be capacity available there."

Transporting patients out of Manitoba is nothing new but moving many who are critically ill is a major undertaking that requires a lot of medical staff, said Jackson with the nurses union. She said she was relieved to learn that military medical transport teams have been called to help transfer patients out of Manitoba.

"We just absolutely do not have the resources to be sending four, five or six flights a day out of this province with our own staff here. Im pretty happy about the fact that they are bringing in additional staff to be transferring."

carol.sanders@freepress.mb.ca

larry.kusch@freepress.mb.ca

Carol Sanders

Legislature reporter After 20 years of reporting on the growing diversity of people calling Manitoba home, Carol moved to the legislature bureau in early 2020. Read full biography
The photo is kind of sad. The first weekend in May opens fishing seasons across the state, and thusly, governors seek publicity showing theyre just regular Joes enjoying fishing in Wisconsin.

Gov. Tony Evers posed for one of these photo ops looking like hes trying to squeeze the life out of a small northern pike in his grip. Fishermen across the state either chuckled at the governors feeble attempt to look like a fisherman, or were sincerely bothered by the tight grip on the little fish.

Perhaps Gov. Evers just isnt much of a fisherman, and thats all fine and good. I would place responsibility on the governors staff that accompanied him out on the water. Is that the pose you wanted Wisconsin sportsmen to see? Certainly not the way to endear yourself to fishing aficionados.

This photo works much better as an illustration of Evers and his approach to COVID-19 and the economy. When you catch a fish intended for release, you follow steps commonly referred to as CPR  catch, photo, release. Its important when catching such a fish to minimize handling, as gripping the fish too much takes the protective layer from the fishs skin, and other problems can occur if the fish is out of water too long.
Training is suffering as well.

Weve always been a proactive police department  getting our officers the best training possible, Louden said. We keep up with the trends. Right now I feel that were keeping status quo in all areas. Our traffic stops are way down. Our ability to identify criminals and their behavior is down. The Dodge County Sheriff wants us to be more involved in the Drug Task Force, which we cant do.

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A final note of concern is the impact of growing mental health needs in the community and the impact on police officer response and workload. Louden showed slides comparing municipal spending per capita (with Waupun at 3.2 percent below average), call volume rising dramatically (9,000 in 2006 to 12,000 to 14,000 in 2020 and 2021), mental health calls doubling from 2005 levels and overtime rising substantially over 2020 and 2021.

Loudens plan of action was summarized as a request for the 18th officer position, developing a recruitment and retention plan, determining strategies to mitigate rising mental health needs and other suggestions from the council.

Alderman Jason Westphal said municipal spending per capita had ignored a prison population of 3,500, and that the figure looks far better considering that fact.
A Mauston man is facing felony charges after allegedly taking an intimate picture of a juvenile without their consent.

Michael Schultz, 31, of Mauston is charged with two counts of felony capturing an intimate representation without consent, repeater. If convicted he faces up to three years and six months in prison or a fine of up to $10,000, or both, for each charge. As Schultz has a prior conviction for felony possession of narcotic drugs within a five-year period prior to this arrest, he faces up to an additional four years in prison due to the repeater modification.

According to the criminal complaint:

On Feb. 24, Mauston Police Officer Blake Fish briefed Detective Richard Lueneburg of the possibility of a case involving the possession of child pornography on a cell phone belonging or previously in the possession of Michael Schultz.

Fish recovered the cell phone the morning of Feb. 24 from a complainant who also provided the passcodes for the phone. The complainant was provided the passcodes from Schultz following his arrest on Feb. 23.

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Lueneburg spoke to the complainant, who indicated disgust with the pictures and with Schultz. The complainant indicated the female in the pictures did not know the pictures were being taken.
Fenton said her time in New Lisbon had a great influence on her career.

Especially in a small town a school is often time the center of social activity in the community, so school was everything, Fenton said. Working hard and learning were very important in my family. The school really gave me a lot. Certainly, I had a couple of English teachers who also directed the plays and did forensics they really encouraged me. My first couple of years in high school I dont know that I really believed I could become an actress the teachers were very influential in supporting and encouraging me.

During her acting career Fenton worked with Stephen Sondheim, Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, Hal Prince, Arthur Laurents, Trevor Nunn, Frank Galati, Jerry Zaks, James Lapine and Robin Phillips. She was also nominated for several awards, including a Drama Desk Award, a Helen Hayes Award, and three nominations for the Joseph Jefferson Award.

As the winner of this years distinguished alumni award Fenton will speak at the graduation ceremony about her accomplishments since graduation, and on how her education in New Lisbon prepared her for post-secondary life.
My goal is to show Gov. Evers that this is the right thing, so that at least half of the electorate knows that the next election is fair and square, Vos said.

He said hiring the former police officers is necessary beyond the Assembly committees work because they are skilled investigators with a lifetime of experience. He said he expects the investigators to work in conjunction with the Assembly committee reviewing the November election.

Vos said he hopes the investigators can produce a report by the fall, to be released alongside an expected audit of the election by the Legislative Audit Bureau.

Vos said the investigators, which will be overseen by an attorney, can request that the Legislature subpoena witnesses on their behalf.
TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP)  Facing Taiwans largest outbreak of the pandemic and looking for rapid virus test kits, the mayor of the islands capital did what anyone might do: He Googled it.

If you dont know, and you try to know something, please check Google, Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je quipped.

Praised for its success at keeping the virus away for more than a year, Taiwan had until May recorded just 1,128 cases and 12 deaths. But the number of locally transmitted cases started growing this month and it soon became clear that the central government was ill prepared not only to contain the virus, but to even detect it on a large scale due to a lack of investment in rapid testing.

That left officials like Ko scrambling to catch up as the number of new infections climbed to some 300 a day. Kos search put him in contact with six local companies who make rapid tests and his government was soon able to set up four rapid testing sites in a district that had emerged as a virus hotspot.

Rapid tests, experts say, are a critical tool in catching the virus in its early days. The alternative that Taiwan has been relying on  tests that have to be sent out to a lab for processing  has led to backlogs that may be obscuring the true extent of the outbreak.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 00:10:17|Editor: huaxia

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ABUJA, May 26 (Xinhua) -- Nigerian army on Wednesday confirmed that troops uncovered a suspected Boko Haram logistics store and arrested some suspects during a raid in the northeastern state of Yobe.

The raid by troops took place in the town of Kurkareta in Yobe on Tuesday, recovering up to 62 jerrycans loaded with petrol hidden in different houses and shops, said a statement by Mohammed Yerima, the spokesman for the army.

Also, three vehicles belonging to the terrorists' suppliers were impounded by the troops, who worked in conjunction with local vigilante groups in the area, Yerima said.

He, however, did not give the number of suspects arrested during the raid.

The successful raid was undertaken following credible intelligence that some members of the community are suppliers of fuel and other products to insurgents, he said.

"All the recovered items and the suspects are in our custody for preliminary investigations before handing them over to the appropriate agency for prosecution," Yerima said, adding the army remained resolute in sustaining their offensive operations against terrorists in the area.

Boko Haram has been trying to establish an Islamist state in northeastern Nigeria since 2009. The terror group has also extended its attacks to other countries in the Lake Chad Basin. Enditem
TROY, N.Y. (AP) - Elections officials in an upstate New York county are accused of failing to provide adequate early voting sites for people living in racially diverse neighborhoods of Troy in a lawsuit filed by state Attorney General Letitia James.

The lawsuit filed Thursday in state court in Rensselaer County alleges that the county Board of Elections and its two commissioners ignored the states early voting law mandate to provide adequate and equitable access to residents of Troy, home to most of the countys Black, Hispanic, and lower-income communities.

Messages were left with the Republican and Democratic commissioners named in the lawsuit.
TIPPECANOE COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI)Local lawmakers are reacting to a request that Governor Eric Holcomb block Indiana University's move to require COVID-19 vaccines.

All students and staff would have to get the shots before the fall semester.

As we've reported, I-U announced the plan on Friday.

Nearly 20 members of the Indiana House called on Holcomb to prohibit any state university from mandating vaccines that don't have full FDA approval.

However, Republican State Rep. Don Lehe wants the university to reconsider the requirement.

"I think it's important that people have their rights to decide on their own," Lehe said.

However, Democratic State Rep. Chris Campbell hopes Holcomb doesn't approve the request.

"I think that it's really up to the university to make decisions based on what they feel is safest for their students," Campbell explained.

The governor's office said Holcomb will review the letter when he gets back from a trip to Israel Thursday.
WOLCOTT, Ind. (WLFI) - The town of Wolcott is beginning upgrades on its waste-water treatment plant, which has been in use since 1977. A groundbreaking at the Wolcott town hall marked the occasion.

The Economic Development Administration is awarding $4.5 million for the construction of the plant, $2.8 million is being matched by White County. The new plant will increase capacity to 600,000 gallons a day. Wolcott Town Council President Mike Johnson explains the significance of the investment.

"It's very important for our town and for the commerce park for growth, we're going to triple our capacity for waste water," Johnson said.

The project is a result of multiple tiers of government coming together from Wolcott up to the United States Department of Agriculture and EDA.

"Funding was very... pretty quick actually from USDA, we got it fairly quickly," Johnson said. "I think it's been about a year that we've been actually planning this."

State Senator Brian Buchanan was among those in attendance at the groundbreaking. He emphasized the importance of infrastructure projects like this one in small communities.

"The biggest challenge is, for many of our small towns across Indiana, is to keep up with the infrastructure needed in order to serve the residents that currently live there, but also to serve residents that may want to move to that small community or businesses that want to move," Buchanan said.

"Infrastructure is tremendously critical, we often find it's one of the things that may hinder development. Until you get the basic infrastructure it's going to be hard to grow and develop as a community."
A native of Arlington, Virginia, Helen became familiar with William & Mary at an early age. In high school, she dreamed of attending the university because of its excellent academic reputation, small size, extracurricular opportunities and social aspects. As a student, Helen says she knew she made the right choice because of the people she interacted with on campus. This community supports one another, she says. Even though we go to an academically rigorous school, we cheer each other on rather than competing with one another.



A double major in government and sociology, Helen was pre-law, a campus tour guide for the admission office, Griffin Ambassador and group fitness instructor. She was also a member of Tri Delta sorority, Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity, the scuba club, Student Assembly and more. She says one of her most defining moments as a student was her study abroad trip to Prague, where she was able to immerse herself in a completely new culture and explore Europe.



What Helen says she loves most about William & Mary is that you get out of the experience what you put in. Everyone here has a common bond of being a member of this community but also being unique at the same time, she says. Ive had a fantastic experience getting to interact with many different types of people with countless different interests.

Learn more about the organizations Helen was a part of at W&M
Democrats are poised to confirm Kristen Clarke Tuesday as the first Black woman to lead the Justice Department's Civil Rights division. Clarke is seen here in Wilmington, Delaware on Jan. 7.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 16:41:34|Editor: huaxia

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LAGOS, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Gunmen in northwest Nigeria released 53 people after several days in captivity, said a local official.

Zamfara state commissioner of security and home affairs Abubakar Dauran on Wednesday told reporters in the state capital Gusau that the victims were released unhurt through the state government's ongoing peace process. The victims were kidnapped from the Bungudu local government area of the state last week.

"A total of 53 persons who were kidnapped last week were released Monday through the efforts of the repentant bandits and support of the state police command," Dauran told reporters, adding that all of them were in good health and had already reunited with their families.

He called on all sides in the state to continue to comply with the ongoing peace process aimed at achieving lasting stability in the region.

The northern part of Nigeria has witnessed a series of attacks by gunmen in recent months, with many civilians killed or kidnapped. Enditem
WASHINGTON, DC (WSMV) - Tennessee Sens. Bill Hagerty and Marsha Blackburn and Rep. Chuck Fleischmann have introduced the Migrant Resettlement Transparency Act, which requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services and Secretary of Homeland Security to consult in advance with state and local officials of impacted jurisdictions regarding federally administered or funded migrant resettlement, according to a joint news release.

The bill has been introduced after reports of four planes carrying unaccompanied migrants recently landed in Chattanooga before being transported for apparent resettlement with no transparency provided to state and local officials.

WRCB, the NBC affiliate in Chattanooga, reported the first of four planes carrying children arrived at Wilson Air Center at Chattanoogas airport around 1:30 a.m. on May 14. Two other planes arrived on May 14 and May 15 and a fourth plane landed in the early morning hours on May 19.

Tennessee lawmakers, activists comment on migrant children being transported into Tennessee Several Tennessee lawmakers are demanding answers after videos show planes carrying migrant children arriving at an airport in Chattanooga overnight.

The bill would also require the Administration to submit to Congress and governors a monthly, state-specific report regarding the resettlement, transportation or relocation of illegal aliens.

Tennesseans have a right to know if the federal government is resettling migrants in their communities, Hagerty, R-TN, said in a news release. President Bidens border crisis has turned every town into a border town, and the resettlement of migrants is an effect of that crisis that impacts citizens on a local level, placing new strains on schools, hospitals, law enforcement and other emergency services.

Over half a million illegal aliens have been apprehended since President Biden took office, Blackburn, R-TN, said in a news release. In Tennessee, the Biden Administration was caught using a Chattanooga airport to secretly traffic migrant children into the interior of our country without the knowledge or involvement of state or local officials. We have no idea where else this is occurring and communities have a right to know what is happing in their backyard. President Bidens failed immigration policies have turned every town into a border town.

Federal transparency with state and local officials is always important in our republic, but its particularly critical during the ongoing crisis on the boarder, Fleischmann, R-TN, who represents the Chattanooga area in Congress, said in a news release.

Last week Blackburn, Hagerty and Fleischmann sent a letter to the HHS and DHS Secretaries requesting transparency after reports that the Biden Administration has been transporting illegal unaccompanied minors to Tennessee.

The video obtained by WRCB showed children who appear to be in their early teens carrying matching bags. The children then boarded buses that were staged on the runway.

WRCB learned that two of the buses carrying the children are owned by Coast to Coast Tours of East Point, GA. The buses were sent to Chattanooga as part of a contract with the United States Department of Defense. A company employee told WRCB the two buses left Chattanooga for Miami and Dallas.

The resettlement operation went around the wishes of Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, along with 19 other governors who had previously written a letter to President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris stating that the Biden Administrations circumvention of state officials by contracting with private organizations to bring a potentially unlimited number of unaccompanied migrant children into our states facilities for an unspecified length of time with almost zero transparency is unacceptable and unsustainable.

The legislation would require the Secretaries of Health and Human Services and Homeland Security to:
NASHVILLE, TN (WSMV) - Economists and unemployed Tennesseans are furious about a statement from the governor that the unemployment crisis is over.

"The crisis is over."

Those were the words from the Governor when News4 asked him about eliminating federal unemployment benefits

TONIGHT AT 6:Joseph Guerrier saw our post where Governor Bill Lee stated that the "crisis is over." He's been in the IT field for 14 years, has an MBA and still can't find a job. We spoke with him and an economist for a non-partisan think tank that says it's far from over. @WSMV https://t.co/sm2LBH2HpD pic.twitter.com/qd5ZJyoSPQ  Caresse Jackman (@CaresseJ) May 26, 2021

"No it's not," Nashville resident Joseph Guerrier said.

That's Guerrier's reaction to the governor's declaration.

"In reality, what he says--is not true," Guerrier said.

A Haitian native, Guerrier has his MBA and worked in IT for 14 years. Still, he's having trouble finding a job in his field.

"Some of these jobs have been on the website since 2020. And when you click on the job, either the job is no longer available...or this job has expired," Guerrier said.

Tennesseans: Governor missed the mark on unemployment The unemployed are challenging Gov. Bill Lee. They said his reasoning for taking away unemployment doesn't help their situation at all.

News4 had the same questions for the governor.

"Yeah, we have a quarter-million job openings in this state, and 160,000 people on unemployment. Those are number of recent weeks so, we have significantly more employment opportunities than we do unemployed. And that's why we made the decisions that we have..yeah," Governor Lee said.

"I was like, this is insane. This is not true. And it's hurtful! It's hurtful!" Guerrier said.

"Absolutely, we're still in a crisis," Elise Gould said.

Elise Gould is a senior economist with the Economic Policy Institute, a non-partisan Think Tank in DC.

"9 to 11 million more people don't have a job that would've had a job. We're on a very different trajectory," Gould said. "That means, they do not have wages to be paying their bill. They do not have income. Many people are struggling --it's very difficult for many people out there today."

Almost 110,000 people to lose unemployment benefits when federal programs end NASHVILLE, TN. - For the first time, we now know just how many people are impacted by Governor Bill Lee's decision to end federal unemployment

It's a reality Odessa Kelly's non-profit, Stand Up Nashville, sees everyday as they assist the working class.

"Tennessee has one of the highest percentile of the lowest wage jobs. People were literally making more money in unemployment than they were working," Kelly said.

Guerrier said if he could speak with the governor, he'd ask him for more compassion and understanding.

"Give me an opportunity. I'll go to work tomorrow. That's all I want. I don't want you to hand me anything because I work hard for everything," Guerrier said.

Gould added that we're still millions of jobs below where we need to be as a country to have a more robust economy. So while we're making progress, we still have a long way to go.
On Friday, the World Socialist Web Site reported the fact that WSWS writer Evan Blake has been banned from the Badass Teachers Association (BATs) Facebook group. This act of censorship from a group that presents itself as left-wing has continued, provoking opposition among educators and other workers.

On Sunday, Teachers Against Dying founder and former Texas teacher Michael Hull made a post in his group titled UNCENSOR EVAN BLAKE FROM BATS. The post calls for Blake to be readmitted to the BATs group and highlights the role played by the WSWS in reporting on Hulls experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. This post, as well as another by WSWS writer Benjamin Mateus, garnered over 150 comments, the vast majority opposing Blakes censorship.

In his post, Hull wrote: Overall, Ive always liked Bad Ass Teachers Association (BATS). I have them linked as a recommended group in Teachers Against Dying and Ive participated in their town halls.  However, it appears they blocked my friend Evan Blake, and provided no explanation as to why. This came after he attempted to post an article which had statements from epidemiologists condemning the CDCs guidelines on masks, which is a fair thing to bring up.

He added, I dont agree with all of the political ideology of WSWS, but no other outlet has done better reporting on the school reopening issue. Its not even close.  Evan has done tremendous work throughout this crisis and helped expose a lot of things, including Randi Weingartens role in the disastrous reopening program. I find it odd that this ban comes after a popular post he made against her which garnered many positive reactions and had many Bad Ass Teachers calling for her resignation as President of American Federation of Teachers.

Hull concluded, Im calling on the Bad Ass Teachers Association to reinstate his ability to post and speak truth to power, or provide a **good** reason for the ban. If you are a BAT, I encourage you to contact the admins and ask them respectfully to reconsider this decision or to provide a **good** reason for it.

2019 Oakland teachers strike, which Evan Blake took part in as a striking teacher

In response to this principled opposition to the censorship of Blake, BATs administrator Michael Flanagan posted an article titled Dear Evan Blake: Its Not Us, Its You. The piece defends the admins decision to ban Blake from the group, distorts the events that led to the banning and makes clear the underlying political motives involved.

Flanagan writes: We do not always agree with our union leadership, and we have been vocal about those disagreements. But we are union members, and will support them, even while trying to change certain policies and actions from within. He proclaims: we do promote racial and identity politics, adding, We advocate under the current political system. In a two party system we have had to choose one party over the other and that has not always been an easy choice-except during this last election.

With these statements, Flanagan outlines the BATs administrators political perspective, which entails subordinating workers to the unions and the Democratic Party.

Over the past 40 years, the unions have been transformed into corporatist bureaucracies that are totally hostile to rank-and-file workers. Weingarten, who nets an annual salary of roughly $500,000 and sits on the Democratic National Committee (DNC), epitomizes this process. She has been the linchpin of the school reopening campaign, provoking mass opposition among rank-and-file teachers.

For decades, the Democrats have promoted racial and identity politics to provide cover for their right-wing, procapitalist program of unending austerity and war. The WSWS has initiated the fight for rank-and-file committees of educators and other workers, independent of the unions and the Democratic Party, to unite the entire working class against the homicidal policies of the ruling elite.

The subordination of the working class to this party has proven disastrous for workers of every race, ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation. Since Bidens inauguration, Democrats at the federal, state and local levels have cynically justified the reopening of schools with the invocation of racial politics.

In response to Flanagan, Blake left two extensive comments documenting the real sequence of events that led to his banning by BATs admins, making clear that this was a political decision. He noted: The WSWS, for which I write regularly, has provided the most consistent and scientific coverage on this issue, with a readership among tens of thousands of teachers. Weve defended teachers and have exposed the role of the Democratic Party and the teachers unions in implementing school reopenings. I am being banned for these criticisms and the administrators political disagreement with these positions and nothing else.

Blake noted: Banning me from the group was the most extreme measure that you could take, adding, If you have a clear political agenda that does not allow for the expression of left-wing and socialist criticisms of the unions and the Democratic Party, then this must be stated in the BATs group rules.

He concluded: We will continue fighting to oppose the censorship of left-wing criticism and we call on all members of Teachers Against Dying and BATs to defend democratic rights. We demand that I be reinstated to the national BATs group, and that posts and comments expressing socialist positions be approved and freely debated in all BATs groups.

Numerous other teachers left statements of support for Blake on this post and others, calling for him to be readmitted into the group. Many raised that either they themselves or other left-wing teachers had previously been banned from BATs for speaking out against the right-wing policies of the Democratic Party and their backers in the unions.

DJK Freeman, a teacher in Tennessee, submitted the following statement of support for Blake:

As a teacher and activist in Tennessee, I was disappointed in the Badass Teachers Associations decision to censure World Socialist Website (WSWS) writer Evan Blake from their Facebook page. The WSWS has stood shoulder to shoulder with rank-and-file educators through every major attack on our profession from the Obama reforms in 2009, the betrayal of teacher-led strikes by their unions in 2018, and now the push by the Biden administration to reopen schools during a global pandemic in 2021. When teachers in my district were sent into classrooms last fall and our union told us there was nothing they could do, the WSWS shared what was happening in our classrooms with a global audience. They helped us organize ourselves into Rank-and-File Safety Committees to demand safe and humane policies for educators, students, and our families. The central tenets of the Badass Teachers Association mission statement are equity and teacher-centered; however, their mission does not seem to include allowing their members to read education news that challenges the positions of the Biden administration, the Democrats or their left-wing, the Democratic Socialists of America. This is just one more example of the so-called left in the United States silencing those with whom they disagree rather than engaging in an honest and open discussion of our differences.

A high school math teacher from Philadelphia sent the following statement:

I am opposed to a group calling itself Bad Ass Teachers Associationwhose name seems to suggest a willingness to hear strong advocacy against establishment state and administrative action contrary to the best interest of teachersbanning from their Facebook site a voice of someone seeming to voice credibly and respectfully that very advocacy. I am speaking against BATs taking Evan Blake off their Facebook group. When decisions regarding student, teacher, and public well-being are being made in changing and recently dangerous contexts, this is not the time to stop listening to respectful and credible advocacy for everyones well-being, even if a preference for political correctness might still prejudice our listening.

Kuhea, a teacher in Hawaii, wrote:

Transparency is the missing piece that has lowered my confidence in our school, union, and government leadership. Their story is always changing, always shifting to fit their agenda. Given the stakes, an open and balanced debate is the way to move forward to identify challenges and possible solutions. Eliminating voices at the table is harmful and divisive and makes me suspicious of a covert agenda. There have been too many lies and we need to seek the truth. WSWS writer Evan Blake must be readmitted to the BATs FB page. No banning.

The banning of Blake from BATs, based solely on political disagreement with the socialist politics advanced by the WSWS, must be opposed by all class-conscious educators and workers. We demand the lifting of the ban on Evan Blake and encourage educators, parents and other workers who support the right of socialists to express their viewpoints to send statements of support today .
Over the past two weeks, Brazils fascistic President Jair Bolsonaro has stepped up his preparations for an electoral coup, pressing Congress to pass a so-called print ballot amendment to the Brazilian Constitution. He has claimed that this is the only guarantee against what he describes as massive and recurrent electoral fraud preventing his reelection next year.

Bolsonaros approval rating has sunk to an all-time low of 24 percent, and a plurality of 49 percent of Brazilians support his impeachment for the first time, with public attention drawn to the ongoing proceedings of a Senate commission of inquiry (CPI) into his murderous handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jair Bolsonaro (Wikipedia Commons)

With the help of his close ally, House Speaker Arthur Lira, Bolsonaro has succeeded in creating and stuffing with far-right loyalists a special panel to discuss, and bring to the center of the national debate, his longstanding and baseless allegations against the Brazilian electronic voting system, in place for almost 20 years. He claims it was rigged to stop him from winning the first round of the 2018 elections, in which he beat the Workers Party (PT) candidate Fernando Haddad in a run-off. The panel will analyze and vote on a constitutional amendment to attach to every electronic ballot a backup paper ballot. Bolsonaro alleges the current system doesnt allow recounts and is prone to vote rigging, an accusation debunked by Army-promoted hacking competitions to find loopholes in the system, and by the very fact that the 2014 presidential elections saw a recount at the behest of runner-up Aecio Neves.

Bolsonaro is following a carefully calculated strategy. After supporting until the eleventh hour Donald Trumps claims that the 2020 US elections were stolen by the Democrats, Bolsonaro endorsed the January 6 putsch at the US Capitol, declaring Brazil would see much worse if his backup print ballot amendment was not adopted. In an undeniable indication of preparations for such an electoral coup in Brazil, Bolsonaros son Eduardo, a House member and former head of the Foreign Relations Committee, was present in Washington for a pre-coup meeting held at the Trump International Hotel on January 5.

Election experts virtually unanimously see print backups as technically irrelevant for the safety of elections. They have already been approved four times by Congress for use in a limited number of locations. They were opposed for facilitating the tracking of votes and, thus, political intimidation, common in both urban areas controlled by organized crime and countryside areas dominated by landed oligarchs. The adoption of the system is entirely irrelevant to Bolsonaro plans. He is betting that the system will be opposed by the Electoral Court, as has happened before, giving him the opportunity to allege that the courts are part of a conspiracy against him. Bolsonaro now warns that if the paper ballot amendment passes the Congress and is not adopted, there will be no elections and he will not relinquish power.

Two days after the establishment of the Senate COVID-19 commission, on May 13, Bolsonaro led a rally of a thousand supporters, sponsored by agribusiness associations, in which he said that only fraud could stop him from winning the election against former Workers Party president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who has recently appeared in the polls as the frontrunner for 2022. In a bid to mobilize the most backward and violent elements in Brazilian society, Bolsonaro now refers to Lula with the dehumanizing alias nine-fingers, mocking the severing of Lulas finger in an industrial accident when he was a metalworker in the 1970s.

Bolsonaro appealed for the crowd to support a coup, declaring that the greatest power in Brazil is not the Executive, the Judiciary or the Legislature, it is you, adding that he was following where you led. At the rally, Bolsonaro stood side-by-side with his defense minister, Gen. Walter Braga Netto, who assumed office two months ago after Bolsonaro fired his predecessor along with the entire military high command in order to obtain the militarys full alignment with his government.

Braga Netto made a speech at the rally saying the Army was ready to allow our people to work. This follows Bolsonaros threats to the use military to overthrow local authorities and cancel their limited social distancing measures against the COVID-19 pandemic. As Braga Netto spoke, the crowd shouted, I authorize, the slogan adopted by Bolsonaros far-right base indicating support for a military takeover.

Bolsonaros provocations are unfolding in the shadow of the proceedings of the Senates investigation into his COVID-19 response, which have been followed by millions of Brazilians outraged by the catastrophic toll taken by the pandemic. Brazil has the second-largest number of recorded deaths in the world, with over 450,000 victims. At this point, nearly 2,000 Brazilians are dying every day. The country is sleepwalking into a deadly third wave with unpredictable consequences as the transmission rate, indicating the acceleration of contagion, climbs to 1.12 after two months below 1.0. In the ensuing economic catastrophe, the wealth of Brazils billionaires has skyrocketed, while 60 percent of Brazilians face food insecurity, and over 20 million have been thrown into poverty.

Bolsonaro is deeply aware that the inquirys exposures are feeding the growth of mass social opposition, despite the best efforts of the opposition to confine it to relatively bureaucratic questions such as the delay in buying Pfizer vaccines offered by the company in mid-2020. The opposition, which controls the commission, has entirely abandoned efforts to probe Bolsonaros herd immunity policy, which is shared by all congressional parties.

In a damage control operation, the CPI has turned its main focus to Gen. Eduardo Pazuello, who headed the Health Ministry for almost a year, from April 2020 to March 15, 2021. He was fired under pressure from Congress at the height of the second wave of the pandemic, when Brazil reached a daily death toll of 4,000. Pazuello was installed after his two civilian predecessors resigned in protest over Bolsonaros herd immunity policy. He is an active-duty three-star generalthe second-highest rank in Brazilian Armywho has for over a year resisted demands that he retire in order to safeguard the political neutrality of the Armed Forces. He has been the only active-duty officer to hold a senior post in the Bolsonaro government, despite the fact that a third of the cabinet is comprised of retired military personnel, including Bolsonaro himself, and over 6,000 officers hold junior and management positions in the cabinet and state companies.

In order to avoid his questioning by the commission implicating the Army itself, the commissions vice president, Randolfe Rodrigues, insisted that Pazuello appear in civilian attire.

He was deposed by the CPI for two days on May 19 and 20, when he was chiefly questioned about the governments promotion of quack cures such as hydroxychloroquine, the delay in buying Pfizer shots offered in mid-2020 and the governments inaction in face of the catastrophic lack of oxygen in the city of Manaus that led to a 41 percent increase in COVID-19 deaths in the city. The collapse of Manaus health care system for the second time in less than one year, after Bolsonaros allies declared the city had reached herd immunity, led to widespread outrage. The more contagious P.1 variant, believed to have originated in the citys second wave, spread throughout South America, as other Brazilian states scrambled to airlift dying patients out of Manaus without adequate preparations.

Bolsonaros response to the exposure of his crimes before the CPI was to invite Pazuello to yet another I authorize rally in Rio de Janeiro last Sunday. PT-aligned media outlets circulated an unverified report by pundit Denise Assis that the Army high command met on Sunday to discuss Pazuellos possible arrest for breach of the military code prohibiting political partisanship, and a former president of the Supreme Military Court told the press that if he was not punished, it would provoke anarchy in barracks. Army commander Gen. Paulo Sergio de Oliveira, however, has remained silent.

Oliveira, named by Bolsonaro after firing the entire military command in late March, had been hailed by the PT and the press as opposed to herd immunity and proof that the Army had not sided with Bolsonaro. Now he faces the dilemma of arousing a far-right faction of the Army if he punishes Pazuello and precipitating the exposure of the penetration of fascistic forces in the state apparatus against the best efforts of the bourgeois press and parties to lull workers into thinking otherwise. Such an outcome would threaten to unleash the very outpouring of opposition that Bolsonaro is rallying his far-right to suppress, while the Army considers itself not yet prepared for a dictatorship.

The responsibility for the sharp dangers facing Brazilian workers, and for Bolsonaros ability to openly develop his conspiracy to hold onto power by nullifying an election, lies squarely with the self-styled opposition led by the PT. Its main aim is to avoid the deep anger against Bolsonaro turning against the whole of Brazilian capitalism. Whatever differences it raises with Bolsonaros policies, it seeks to frame them in the most chauvinist, pro-capitalist terms, while directing its appeals to the Army. The CPI has been the foremost example of this policy, transforming the central discussion on the scarcity of vaccines, a global catastrophe caused by the criminal vaccine hoarding of the imperialist countries and the irrational policies of ruling elites the world over, into an indictment of Bolsonaros anti-patriotic foreign policy, which should be reversed by the military.

The fight against the deadly herd immunity consensus within the ruling class, social inequality and the threat of dictatorship requires a break with the capitalist state and the forces which promote itincluding the PT, the unions and their pseudo-left satellitesand the building of a socialist leadership within the working class, a Brazilian section of the International Committee of the Fourth International.
The ongoing company witch hunt against Alton Estate workers near Maskeliya began early this year in response to workers determination to win better wages and improved living conditions. The Alton workers, who walked out on February 2, participated in a one-day national plantation workers strike three days later and continued their industrial action until March 22 in protest against estate management harassment.

Twenty-four workers and two youth were then framed up by the company and the police, aided and abetted by the Ceylon Workers Congress (CWC), on false accusations of physically assaulting the estates managers. These workers now face a criminal court trial. The Horana Plantation Company, which runs Alton Estate, has sacked a total of 38 workers, including those to be tried, without conducting any investigation or allowing any right of appeal against its dictates.

Line room accommodation at Fruit Hill Estate in Hatton (Soure: WSWS Media)

The horrendous conditions confronting Alton Estate workers, however, are not unique but typify the plight of tens of thousands of plantation workers across the country who are barely surviving on below poverty-level wages without adequate healthcare, education and housing. This social disaster has been created by the profit-hungry plantation companies with the blessing of successive governments and the active support of the trade unions.

Five hundred workers are currently employed in the four divisions of the Alton Estate. Unemployment and lack of job opportunities in the area is so bad that about 200 youth from the estate have had to move to Colombo or other areas to try and find work.

On average, plantation workers are currently supposed to earn at least 24,000 rupees ($US100) a month, following a recent government-endorsed wage hike that increased their daily pay to 1,000 rupees (900 rupees basic and a 100-rupee allowance, about $US5), if they work for a statutory 24 days.

Line rooms at Dee Side Estate in Up-Cot (Source: WSWS Media)

However, pension fund deductions, a religious festival advance payment and small loans substantially reduce their take-home pay. While the government-endorsed 1,000-rupee daily wage was in order to deflect the hostility of plantation workers, most of the estate companies have refused to pay this amount unless workers increased their daily workload.

An Alton Estate worker recently explained to the World Socialist Web Site that she worked for 19 days last month and was paid 19,000 rupees. After pension fund and festival advance loan deductions, she received just 13,570 rupees. Alton Estate management is demanding its workers pluck 18 kilograms of tea per day in order receive the 1,000-rupee daily wage.

She said that her husband is unable to work because he is ill and has to be taken to hospital every week. The couple need 15,000 rupees per month just for food.

COVID-19 has heavily impacted on the Sri Lankan economy, resulting in shortages of essential items that have pushed up prices. Plantation workers are amongst the hardest hit sections of the working class.

While many Alton Estate workers are living in old, substandard and overcrowded line rooms, (about 12 foot by 10 foot or 3.6 metres by 3 metres), an estimate of 100 families at the plantation do not even have these facilities.

Tea plantation workers at Del House Estate in Maskeliya (Source: WSWS Media)

Accommodation in the estates lower division is situated next to a river. During the rainy season the river overflows, flooding houses and forcing workers and their families to leave their belongings and to flee to camps on higher ground. The company and the union leadership have repeatedly made empty promises to provide alternative homes. Rudimentary water and toilet facilities have not been provided by Alton management, but by a non-government organisation.

The estate has a dispensary but no doctor. On some days an Estate Medical Assistant (EMA) from Fairlawn Estate visits the dispensary for one or two hours to see Alton workers. The plantation companies employ the EMAs, who are not fully qualified doctors and are paid low salaries. Like other estates, the Alton Estate dispensary does not stock essential medicines.

In order to see a doctor, Alton Estate workers have to travel over 10 kms to Maskeliya or 15 kms to Dickoya hospital, neither of which are properly equipped. With no regular bus services in this area, people have to hire three-wheeler taxis or other vehicles, paying up to 1,000 rupees for a return trip.

Most of the children of plantation workers suffer from malnutrition while pregnant mothers are unable to secure nutritious food or access to decent medical facilities. Child mortality rates in the plantation areas are among the highest in Sri Lanka.

M., a female Alton Estate worker who was dismissed from her job after the strike, spoke with the WSWS. Five members of her family have been sacked.

She explained: My son suffered a stroke when he was seven years old so we have to go to hospital frequently. A doctor at Kandy hospital advised us to go to the childrens hospital in Colombo, but we have to spend about 6,000 rupees to get to [Colombo] on a three-wheeler. We cant afford this sort of expense.

U., another sacked worker, explained that her son has kidney problems and frequently has to be taken to a hospital clinic. Her husband works in Colombo. My colleagues who lost jobs are doing casual work at a private estate far away but Im not able to join them because of my sons health problem.

Plantation workers are becoming increasingly concerned about the surging number of COVID-19 infections across the country. Lack of sanitary facilities and overcrowded line rooms with no possibility of social distancing could see a rapid spread of the deadly virus in the plantations.

The upper division of the Alton Estate has a school with students from other divisions having to walk long distances to attend.

The school conducts classes up to Grade 11 but the building, which was initially constructed to accommodate classes up to Grade 5, is inadequate and detrimental to proper studies. Most of the children, however, leave school before reaching Grade 11, because their parents cannot afford their education.

Those students able to undertake higher studies, have to travel to Maskeliya. Only three students from the estate were able to enter university in the recent period.

Last year, the company distributed about 20 hectares of abandoned estate land among retired workers to cultivate tea. The workers had to pay the costs of cultivation and provide the harvest to the company. After this years strike the company resumed possession of the land.

P. Ponaijah, a retired Alton Estate worker, said they signed an agreement with the company but were not given a copy thus preventing them taking any legal action over the companys repossession.

The Socialist Equality Party and the Alton Workers Action Committee have launched a campaign demanding the withdrawal of police-company frame up charges against the Alton Estate workers and unconditional reinstatement of all sacked workers.

Please send all statements supporting the defence campaign to this address: wswscmb@sltnet.lk.

Recently received statements are published below.

A Sri Lankan migrant worker at an Iribia garment factory in Jordan wrote: I vehemently condemn the dismissal of 35 workers at Alton Estate. They are facing injustice. We demand that the company reinstate those sacked workers. We [in Jordan] also face the same difficult conditions as the Alton workers.

She went to explain that then when migrant garment workers face injustices and seek protection from the Sri Lankan embassy they are advised not to make any complaints.

The embassy, however, she said, hands over the details of the person who made the complaint to the factory managers the very next day. They, in turn, use those details to intimidate the workers

Workers at Alton have opposed the unions. That is good but other workers should support them. I appreciate your attempt to gather such a support, she added.

Harvey, from the US, wrote: Please add my support for demanding all charges be dropped and all workers be given their jobs back, including compensation for all pay lost, with respect to what is clearly a frame-up by the Horana Plantation Company at its Alton Estate.

I am a retired teacher in New York City. Why am I writing on this anti-worker attack in Sri Lanka? Aside from being a tea drinker and aware of how this cup of beverage I hold in my hands daily has passed through the hands of hard-working plantation workers, I think the global pandemic sweeping around the world makes all workers comrades against the intensified assault on our rights and living standards perpetrated by the capitalist class. Chief of these is the great amount of death and sickness that they have allowed and abetted with their policies but also the attempt to take advantage of our hardships to impose still further oppressive exploitation.

Even in New York, there are ongoing attacks on jobs, wages, benefits, and working conditions. The division of humanity by nations serves only the rich whose wealth is protected and expanded by each state, as all are controlled by the capitalists.

I appreciate the coverage of the World Socialist Web Site that informs the working class of the details of this case and many others. I look forward to the joining with the Alton Estate workers in the international struggle to end the system that is trying to suppress their fight for justice, economic and political as well as legal.
After rank-and-file workers staged a sit-down strike Monday to protest the lack of COVID-19 protections, management at a Hyundai Motors plant in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu announced a five-day suspension of operations, starting Tuesday. The autoworkers were protesting the dangerous working conditions at the plant, where 150 are currently being treated for COVID-19 symptoms, according to a union official. Ten Hyundai Motors India workers have already perished from the virus.

Five thousand workers at Renault-Nissans car plant, also located in the Sriperumbudur-Oragaram industrial belt, were set to follow the example of their Hyundai colleagues by walking off the job Wednesday. At least five Renault-Nissan workers have lost their lives to the virus. Well aware that social tensions are at the boiling point and that the protest movement could spread like wildfire, Renault-Nissan management subverted the job action by announcing a five-day suspension of plant operations until May 30.

Renault Nissan Automotive India workers (Credit: global.nissannews.com)

The Renault-Nissan workers said that their demands for COVID-19 protections had been ignored. CNBC TV18 reported that the workers main complaints are a lack of medical insurance, managements insistence on running the plant at full capacitymaking social distancing impossibleand cramped canteens.

Prior to the shutdown, Renault-Nissan had demanded that workers maintain a backbreaking pace of 27 jobs per hour on line 1 and 40 jobs per hour on line 2. With 95 percent of the workers 40 and younger yet to be vaccinated, managements decision to keep the factory operating at full tilt has allowed the virus to run rampant through the plant.

The Tamil Nadu autoworkers job action underscores that it is the global working class that is the main source of opposition to the ruling elites criminal open economy policy, which prioritizes capitalist profit over saving workers lives. In spring 2020, autoworkers in Canada and the United States, and other industrial workers in Italy and Spain, carried out work stoppages in open rebellion against the corporatist trade unions, which, like the employers, were desperate to keep production running. These job actions saved countless thousands of lives, forcing the ruling elites in North America and Europe to impose temporary shutdowns that they otherwise had no intention of ever implementing.

Likewise, the eruption of working-class anger over the callous indifference displayed by the Indian ruling elite towards workers lives testifies to the deep and widespread opposition to the profits before lives response to COVID-19 pursued by the Indian government at all levels. India is currently the world epicentre of the pandemic, with well over 4,000 official daily deaths now being recorded. The true depth of the crisis is far worse, with credible estimates suggesting that tens of thousands are dying every day.

Narendra Modis far-right Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) central government bears chief responsibility for this catastrophe. It has insisted on keeping the economy open at all costs and is refusing to provide social support to the hundreds of millions thrust into destitution by the limited lockdown measures imposed by some state governments. Last month, as daily infections approached 300,000 and official daily deaths climbed past 3,000, Modi declared it was necessary to save India from lockdown, not to save the Indian people from the deadly virus.

However, the opposition parties defend the interests of corporate India no less ruthlessly. In Tamil Nadu, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) was recently elected to the state government as the lead party of an electoral alliance including the Congress Party, till recently the ruling classs preferred party of national government, and the twin Stalinist parties, the Communist Party of IndiaMarxist (CPM) and Communist Party of India (CPI).

The DMK regime, like its AIADMK predecessor, which was a close ally of Modi and his BJP, has maintained a policy of allowing factories and other industrial worksites to continue operating as if there were no pandemic. Although the DMK government officially unveiled a statewide lockdown after coming to power, it granted massive exemptions for industrial worksites and factories. Speaking much like Modi, DMK chairman and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin remarked, Lockdowns cannot be the solution, as we also realize that it impacts economic growth.

In the face of this brutal class-war agenda, the job actions by the Hyundai and Renault Nissan workers are only the most prominent examples of mounting working-class anger. At MRF Tyres Ltd., in Puducherry, a Union Territory adjacent to Tamil Nadu, workers mounted strikes last week to demand justice and compensation for two workers who had died from COVID-19, and for the immediate shutdown of the companys plants. More than 300 workers at Caparo India, an auto parts company, took strike action against unsafe working conditions and the death of an unknown number of workers at its plants. The strike, which began on May 15, was sabotaged by the Stalinist-led Centre of Indian Trade Unions federation on May 21.

In the absence of any official records of worker deaths, and with regional and national newspapers consciously covering up the extent of the slaughter, workers have begun sharing information on workplace deaths via social media. According to these sources, more than 25 workers have died in recent weeks at various globally connected companies just in Tamil Nadu. The death toll is especially high in the Sriperumbudur-Oragaram industrial area, which is located on the outskirts of Chennai, Indias fourth-largest urban agglomeration and Tamil Nadus capital. The entire region has been dubbed the Detroit of Asia because millions of autoworkers are employed there in sweatshop conditions.

In the Gurgaon-Manesar industrial belt in the northern state of Haryana, Rajesh, one of the current leaders of the Maruti Suzuki Employees Union, and various workers forums and blogs, such as the Hindi-language Mehnatkash and Workers Unity, report that more than 20 workers have died during the recent surge in COVID-19 infections. These include five workers at Maruti Suzukis plant in Gurgaon, two workers at a Honda plant and one worker at the Tata Motors facility.

The conditions of brutal exploitation that prevail in the Gurgaon-Manesar industrial belt were exemplified by the monstrous 2012 company-government frame-up of Maruti Suzuki workers. In 2017, 13 militant workers at Maruti Suzukis Manesar car assembly plant were sent to jail for life. Their sole crime was to have led a year-long struggle, including sit-down strikes and occupations, against a brutal work regime and precarious contract-labour jobs and to build an independent union in opposition to a company-backed, state-sponsored union.

As the anger among workers has grown over the past year over speedup, poverty wages and the lack of COVID-19 protections, the trade unions have worked systematically to isolate and suppress their struggles. The Stalinist-led CITU, Maoist-led AICCTU, and the LTUC in Tamil Nadu have consistently isolated workers struggles from one another and from the wider urban and rural workforce. Each group of workers has been left to fight their government-backed transnational employer alone.

At Renault-Nissan, the Renault-Nissan India Thozhillalar Sangam (RNITS) trade union, which is currently under the control of the Maoist Peoples Power group, urged workers last week to focus their efforts on a lawsuit aimed at getting the courts to intervene and order improvements in their working conditions. Providing yet another cynical twist to the ruling elites open economy policy, the two-judge bench at the Madras High Court promptly responded, [W]hile the health of workers is paramount, if industries go down there will be no place for them to work.

The growing number of unnecessary worker deaths underscores the urgency of an immediate shutdown of nonessential production, including the auto industry, in Tamil Nadu and across India to combat the spread of the disease and save hundreds of thousands of lives. This must be accompanied with full compensation for all workers affected and their families until the pandemic is brought under control.

The billions made by the automakers and other major companies, and the hundreds of billions Indias billionaires earned this year from the monies the worlds central banks poured into the financial markets, must be confiscated to pay for a massive public health program, including free and universal vaccinations and social support for workers, their families, and Indias impoverished masses.

To fight for this programme, we urge autoworkers to establish rank-and-file action committees in every plant and at every workplace. These committees must become the political leadership and organisational framework through which workers can unify their struggles in a joint counteroffensive to place the protection of the health and very lives of the population ahead of corporate profits.

The struggle against the pandemic, which is a global phenomenon that knows no boundaries, must be waged on an international basis and as a working-class political struggle. We urge Indian autoworkers and all other workers to lend their support to the construction of the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees, which is spearheading a global mobilisation of the working class, the only social force capable of combatting the pandemic and saving lives. What this requires above all is the fight for the socialist transformation of society, which is the only way to prevent globally organized corporations like Renault-Nissan, Hyundai, and Suzuki from pitting workers against each other along national lines to cut labour costs and making massive profits while their workers get sick and die.

We urge all workers across India who agree with this perspective to make plans to attend this Sundays online meeting The COVID-19 pandemic in India and the need for a socialist strategy. It begins at 6 p.m. Indian Standard Time.
Thousands of people attended a further series of rallies and marches last weekend in Sydney, Melbourne and Wollongong to condemn the death and destruction caused by the Israeli bombings in Gaza. Despite an unstable ceasefire having been announced days before, there were crowds of around 3,000 in both Sydney and Melbourne. Many participants noted that the attacks on the rights of the Palestinians were continuing, even though the bombing campaign had been suspended.

Speakers at the rallies included prominent Greens representatives, who centred their comments on appeals for the Australian government to cease cooperation with Israel.

A section of the Sydney rally (WSWS media)

This bankrupt perspective serves to cover-up Australias role as a key US military ally, which is engaged in its own military build-up, in preparation for conflict with China. The Greens position is directed against the development of an independent movement of the working class against war, instead serving to divert widespread opposition into impotent appeals to the very political forces responsible for the growth of militarism.

The WSWS spoke to people attending the rallies in Sydney and Melbourne.

A section of the Melbourne rally (WSWS media)

In Sydney, Abdul, a 17-year-old shipping container unloader, said, They are targeting the weak and innocent. For over twenty years it hasnt been an equal fight. But because there is a response from the Palestinians, Israel and its allies are saying its an equal fight, but its not on the same level. Its been the Israeli military and police against the people.

Sue, who works in customer service, stated, Israel and the world have a lot to answer for. We are human beings and deserve to live in peace, like any other person in the world. It is time to give us equal rights. My grandparents were children when they were forced from their homes in 1948. Why cant I come home? I am a refugee.

Sue

When asked what she thought of widespread opposition among Jewish people to the Israeli onslaught, she said, I applaud them and I say thank you for standing up for what is right and not being blinded by a Zionist government. The Jewish people know what is going on, that is why so many oppose it.

A 17-year- old high school student who wished to remain anonymous, asked, What was the UN created for? They were supposed to be there to stop the outbreak of major wars. It is a group of the whole world, they come together and have meetings, yet still this happens. And what are they doing? Sitting back in their chairs having coffee and cigars relaxing. Its all corruption.

The governments dont intervene to prevent the bombings for economic reasons. There are big deals happening, like the Saudi king who has close ties with Israel, and the US, which is giving it massive military aid. Nearly half the world is at war so it probably will end up spreading to the whole world till theres only 1 percent of the world left not in conflict. In this world the fathers bury their sons, instead of a good world where the sons bury their fathers. A business owner is going to drink up all the wealth and only give a droplet of water to the workers, unless the workers rise up and fight for their rights.

Zeinab, a retail worker, declared: Nobody wants to live in war, everybody just wants to live in peace. We can co-exist. We just want rights, like everyone, to have electricity all day, to have clean water. We want the blockade to be lifted. I think non-Zionist Jewish people do really care about us. But there are some people that dont care, that want to kill us.

Asked about the danger of a broader war, Zeinab said Thats a problem, especially in the south of Lebanon. I think it was in 2006 that Israel came in and attacked Lebanon for no reason whatsoever. Thats what were scared of. We dont want war. We dont want that to happen.

Ausama, a 23-year-old martial arts fighter, also commented on the broad opposition to the attacks on Gaza. You see that there are many Israelis and Jews are also supporting the Palestinian movement, which tells you that this is not just an Islamic movement, he said. If the majority of the world is against this, with everybody going out and protesting, even in oppressed countries like Iraq and Kuwait, why arent governments doing anything? We want to know. What is the reason?

Ausama

Joel, who works in education, said: A lot of the war, conflict and violence that we see is the big world countries fighting over resources, money and oil. And it all ultimately costs the lives and the blood of the working people of the world. I dont know how we can get there but, we need international solidarity between the working class. We need to somehow build socialism.

The main obstacle has been that the ruling class has been able to sow divisions within the working class, based on things like race, gender and religion, and basically use divide and conquer tactics on the working class. You can look at someone who is worse off than you, and think they are the problem in your life, as opposed to Jeff Bezos and Gina Reinhardt who are literally making billions and billions off the back of the resources of the earth, and exploit their workers.

Its very hard to break that kind of narrative when the ruling class controls the media. The media are part of that ruling-class establishment as well, they are looking after their own interests keeping us divided and keeping them on the top.

Those attending the rally in Melbourne voiced similar sentiments. Hannah said, This is the first demonstration I have attended. People cant find out about what is going on. The Israeli military targeted the Associated Press and Al Jazeera, blowing up the building they were working from. They are trying to have less people to film and know about what is going on. People can see it if its filmed and feel more connected to it.

The US is saying that Israel is defending itself but it is the Israeli government that has been causing antagonisms until there is a response, which they then use as a pretext for an attack. They want to get a reaction.

Emily, who is studying criminology, said Im here to support Palestine. Its an issue that is often swept under the rug, especially given Australias history of colonial dispossession. The treatment of people under law is bad. If you are against Israel it can be called terrorism, its a very broad definition. People from Palestinian are imprisoned for this.

Emily

The situation on the ground is that there is no access to basic resources. Its quite unsafe and there is inequality between the two groups. Its pretty horrible the response from Netanyahu. The military response is like an extreme-right dictatorship. The US says to Israel, Dont go too far, but it has been armed by the US which props it up.

Jennifer commented: Given they already started attacking the Palestinians in the mosque during the prayers after the ceasefire, this shows that they dont keep to their word. I have a friend in Nablus and another in Ramallah and theyre saying the conditions are quite bad with regard to the early curfews and the military walking around.

Jennifer and Toby

She had volunteered in 2013 in Nablus. Palestinians dont have access to water which affects their productivity with olives and figs which are their main resources there. People in the Gaza Strip arent allowed to go several metres into the ocean to do their fishing so the small area they have is overfished.

Regarding Bidens response, Jennifer said, Im quite saddened but not surprised. Im American. Im not surprised that hes still supporting Israel. The US has so much power over Israel.

Evan, a graphic designer, said Its a complete atrocity in every way shape and form. You cant stand by idly. Even with the ceasefire the Palestinian people are still living under occupation. It doesnt resolve anything. This has been happening for 50 years or more.

Biden was branded as a not-Trump candidate, but he really is not much different. The US is in the Middle East for oil and control. Thats what the Iraq wars were about. It goes back such a long time.

Asked about the Afghanistan war crimes carried out by the Australian military, Evan said, Australia thinks it can go and do whatever it wants in the world based on the fact that its an ally of the US. Im feeling very disenfranchised with politics.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 20:06:22|Editor: huaxia

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KAMPALA, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Health experts in Uganda are scheduled to meet here on Thursday to discuss ways of addressing the surging number of COVID-19 cases after months of a downward trend.

Diana Atwine, permanent secretary of ministry of health, on Wednesday said that Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni ordered the formation of a temporary national task force to handle the resurgence of cases.

According to the ministry of health, the country is experiencing a second wave of COVID-19, which is also severely affecting the young, unlike the first wave.

Figures issued by the ministry on Wednesday showed that 207 people tested positive for COVID-19 on May 24, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 44,281.

According to the ministry, the majority of cases are in the capital Kampala, and isolation facilities and Intensive Care Units in the country are also quickly filling up.

Henry Mwebesa, director general of Health Services at the ministry, urged health workers to adopt prevention and control measures since they are at the frontline of the pandemic fight.

"The new COVID-19 cases are increasing daily. I strongly urge you to practice the infection, prevention and control measures and please get vaccinated now," Mwebesa said.

The ministry is also scaling up vaccinations against COVID-19, urging those who received the first dose of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine to get their second dose.

As of May 24, 537,440 people had been vaccinated since the country kicked off its vaccination campaign in March.

Uganda received its first 964,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine from the World Health Organization's COVAX initiative and the Indian government in March. Enditem
Since the start of the year, workers throughout the United States have been engaged in a series of significant class struggles that reflect the growth of anger and opposition throughout the country. Workers are fighting back against the ferocious austerity measures of the ruling elite that have followed the massive handout to the corporate and financial elite in the midst of the pandemic.

Sections of nurses, autoworkers, steelworkers, teachers, coal miners and others have been engaged in class battles spanning weeks and months, in which they confront not only the employers and the government, but the treachery of the unions.

Nurses at Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital go on strike over safe staffing issues during the coronavirus pandemic, Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2020, in New Rochelle, N.Y. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)

Despite the pretense of being a socialist news publication, in Jacobin magazine, affiliated with a faction of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), one will search in vain through its pages for even a mention of any the most significant class struggles in the heart of world capitalism.

Some of the most significant struggles of the last six months alone include an ongoing strike by 1,300 steelworkers at Allegheny Technologies (ATI) in Pennsylvania, which has pitted workers against the company and their union, the United Steel Workers (USW). Jacobin has not published a single article on the strike.

At Warrior Met Coal in Alabama, 1,100 miners walked out on April 1, determined to restore previous pay cuts and fight abusive and unsafe working conditions. In direct opposition to the efforts of the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA), workers voted down a sellout contract just over a week later, by a vote of 1,006 to 45, delivering a staggering defeat of the UMWA.

Throughout the 8-week (and counting) struggle of the coal miners, Jacobin produced just under 700 words on the struggle, in one article. Not a single one of those 700 words referred to the betrayal of the UMWA and the massive opposition of workers to it.

Such an exercise could be carried on endlessly: Jacobin produced exactly one article on the month-long strike by Columbia graduate workers and one article on the nurses strike at Saint Vincent Hospital in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Perhaps most significant is the battle of Volvo truck workers at the New River Valley Plant in Dublin, Virginia. At every turn, the nearly 3,000 workers at the Volvo plant have been met with opposition from the very organization that claims to represent them, the United Auto Workers.

Workers walked out on strike at the truck manufacturing plant on April 17, determined to win a contract that made up for years of concessions the UAW has handed to the company. Just two weeks into the strike, on April 30, the UAW ordered workers to return to their jobs, claiming it had reached an agreement with significant gains for workers. That is, workers were ordered back to work by their union without seeing, let alone voting on the agreement.

Militant workers formed the Volvo Workers Rank-and-File Committee (VWRFC), which has issued statements, read by thousands of workers, calling for a no vote on the agreement. On May 16, workers overwhelmingly voted down a tentative agreement pushed by the United Auto Workers (UAW), with 91 percent of workers voting against it. The workers recently referred to the UAW- backedcontract as toilet paper.

Not a word has been uttered by Jacobin or their co-thinkers in the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) on the struggle of the Volvo workers.

This is in sharp contrast to the wealth of coverage and attention that the magazine gave to the drive to install the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU) at the Amazon warehouse in Bessemer, Alabama last month.

Dozens of articles were published by Jacobin in the run-up to the vote, hailing it as the most important unionization effort in recent history.

It was, in fact, nothing of the sort. The unionization effort in Bessemer was backed by none other than Democratic President Joe Biden and substantial sections of the political establishment and corporate media. It was a top-down campaign with little to no support from the workers. In the end the RWDSU received only 738 votes in favor, or less than 13 percent of the 5,800 workers at the warehouse.

What Jacobin chooses to write about or not write about says as much about the nature of the organization as the content of what it produces.

As with the DSA as a whole, Jacobin functions as a faction of the Democratic Party and the corporatist trade unions. They promote the unionsas in the unionization campaign at Bessemeras an instrument for the suppression of the class struggle. Speaking for privileged layers of the upper middle class, they are deeply hostile to any genuine expression of working-class opposition, which invariably develops in opposition to the union apparatus.

It is for this reason that when they do eventually get around to publishing on workers struggles, they deliberately cover up the reality of the role played by the unions. When the unions are able to ram through a deal, Jacobin inevitably provides press coverage hailing the contract as a win for workers, no matter how meager the gains.

One notable example can be seen in their coverage of the Hunts Point produce workers strike in New York early this year. The Hunts Point workers went on strike for a modest $1 per hour raise per year.

After the Teamsters Union paraded DSA member and congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez on the picket line, the union forced through a sell-out contract in a snap vote, leaving workers with an average annual wage increase of 62 cents more for new hires and 40 cents for veteran workers over the next three years. Most of the wage increase, moreover, is offset by reductions in their health care benefits.

Jacobin proclaimed the Hunts Point strike a victory worth celebrating and proof that going on strike works.

The experience of the past six months is only the beginning of an upsurge of working-class struggle throughout the country and around the world. The Socialist Equality Party and the World Socialist Web Site are assisting workers in forming a network of independent rank-and-file committees in factories, schools and all work locations.

Our call for rank-and-file committees, independent of the corporate-controlled trade unions, is part of a broader fight to free the working class from the stranglehold of Democrats and Republicans and rebuild the workers movement on the basis of an international and revolutionary socialist program.
In comments first made last week and reiterated multiple times since, fascist Georgia Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene has continued to equate the wearing of a mask to protect humans from the ongoing pandemic, which has killed nearly 1 million in the US and nearly 10 times that globally, with the persecution of over 6 million Jews in Nazi-occupied Europe who were forced to wear an identifying yellow fabric star on their clothing before being sent to extermination camps.

Speaking for openly fascistic sections of the financial oligarchy, which see the continuation of any public health measures to stem the spread of the coronavirus pandemic as an impediment to their profit accumulation, Greene has repeatedly attacked the rule established by Speaker Nancy Pelosi that all members continue to wear a mask while in the House chamber.

Marjorie Taylor Greene's tweet

Greene first made her obscene comments during an appearance on the right-wing Christian Broadcasting Network's Real Americas Voice last Thursday, after she and other right-wing members of the Republican House, who refused to wear a mask inside the chamber, were issued fines.

We can look back in a time in history when people were told to wear a gold star and they were definitely treated like second-class citizens, said Greene. They were put in trains and taken to gas chambers in Nazi Germany. And this is exactly the type of abuse Nancy Pelosi is talking about.

Many members of the Republican caucus, including Greene herself, have refused to get vaccinated, necessitating Pelosis precautionary health measure. Given the existence of breakthrough cases even in those who have been vaccinated, the rule would still make sense even if 100 percent of the Congress were to be vaccinated.

Greene has been given assistance in her right-wing campaign against the wearing of masks by the Centers for Disease Controls politically-motivated loosening of mask and social distancing requirements, which was pushed by President Joe Biden and has been championed by the rest of the Democratic Party, in opposition to recommendations from leading epidemiologists.

Greene proceeded to double down on her putrid comparisons in an interview with an NBC reporter last Friday, I stand by all my statements, said Greene. I said nothing wrong and I think any rational Jewish person didnt like what happened in Nazi Germany and any rational Jewish person doesnt like whats happening with overreaching mask mandates and overbearing vaccine policies.

Over the weekend Greene, an ardent supporter of Trump and his America First fascist agenda, continued to spew unhinged anti-scientific and anti-socialist conspiracy theories on her social media accounts. She accused Pelosi of being a tyrant for attempting to shame, ostracize, and brand Members of Congress who choose not get vaccinated or wear a mask.

This invocation of tyranny against Pelosi is the same language used against Democratic governors in Michigan and Virginia last year by Trump and Republicans in opposition to pandemic-related lockdowns. Those governors were later targeted by fascist militias as part of a wide-ranging multi-state assassination plot to force businesses reopenings and eradicate any public health restrictions. The storming of the Capitol in Lansing on April 30, 2020 served as a dry run for the attempted coup in Washington on January 6 this year.

Joining Greene in calling for no discrimination or coercion against those who refuse to wear a mask or get vaccinated was Michigan Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey, who posted on Twitter May 25 a photo of himself with a wristband that claimed he was Naturally Immunized. Like Greene, Shirkey has documented connections with fascist militia members, including the Null brothers, who have been charged in the assassination plot against Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and who participated in the storming of the Lansing Capitol last year.

On Tuesday, five days after her initial comments, Greene, on Twitter again, equated receiving a life-saving vaccine with the Nazis final solution, writing that Vaccinated employees get a vaccination logo just like the Nazis forced Jewish people to wear a gold star. Vaccine passports & mask mandates create discrimination against unvaxxed people who trust their immune systems to a virus that is 99% survivable.

That comment drew a wave of condemnation from most of the political establishment and more broadly. A Change.org petition calling on House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (California) to expel Greene has garnered over 133,400 signatures as of this writing.

A tweet the Auschwitz Memorial wrote in response to Greene went viral on Tuesday. They wrote: The instrumentalization of the tragedy of Jews who suffered, were humiliated, marked with a yellow star, isolated in ghettos & murdered during the Holocaust, in a debate on different systems that aim at protecting public health is a sad symptom of moral and intellectual decline.

Forced to finally respond on Tuesday, McCarthy issued a short statement saying, Marjorie is wrong, and her intentional decision to compare the horrors of the Holocaust with wearing masks is appalling. The Holocaust is the greatest atrocity committed in history. The fact that this needs to be stated today is deeply troubling.

However, in the next sentence McCarthy accused Pelosi of ignoring anti-Semitism within the ranks of the Democrats because a tiny minority of lawmakers, chiefly members of the so-called Squad, Ilhan Omar (Minnesota), Rashida Tlaib (Michigan) and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (New York), made mild criticisms of Israels ethnic cleansing campaign against Palestinians in Gaza and East Jerusalem.

Undeterred by the mild scolding from McCarthy, Greene even retweeted and then deleted a comment which described McCarthy as a moron and a feckless c*nt after McCarthy released his statement on Tuesday. She continued her fascistic provocations, repeating her death threat against the nominal left members of the Democratic Party, regurgitating her fascist rebranding of the Squad as the Jihad Squad while accusing the group of supporting terrorists Hamas.

As the World Socialist Web Site has previously noted, the charge by Greene that Democratic representatives are supporting terrorists must be seen as a death threat, not only to these elected officials, but to the entire working class. In addition to agitating against mask mandates, Greene, and fellow coup-supporting Republicans like Andy Biggs of Arizona, have repeatedly attacked Pelosis rule prohibiting firearms on the House floor.

These near-constant provocations by fascistic members of the Republican Party who continue to back Trumps lie that the election was stolen and that Biden is illegitimate have created a definite political climate in the Capitol. American politics is being conducted under the threat of violence, Michael Gerson, former speechwriter to President George W. Bush, wrote in a recent opinion column for the Washington Post .

The fact that fascistic violence is now openly acknowledged as a reality in American politics by spokesmen for the ruling class testifies to the advanced decay of American capitalism, personified in the thuggish figure of Trump, who despite being impeached twice and losing the election by over 7 million votes, remains the dominant figure in the Republican Party.

The Democrats, beholden to the same financial aristocracy as the Republicans, are more concerned with protecting their decomposing and unequal social order than exposing and eliminating the fascist threat. The turn by sections of the ruling class to figures like Greene, a conspiracy-spewing, gun-toting fascist, is a testament to the desperation and weakness of the ruling capitalist class and underscores the necessity of building the socialist alternative to the capitalist system as a whole.
More than 50 refugees drowned attempting to cross the Mediterranean from Africa to Europe last week. The mass drowning is the latest such disaster this year, produced directly by the anti-migrant policies of the European Union (EU).

In another demonstration of the illegality of the EUs refugee policy, the United Nations human rights commission handed down a report yesterday, branding the EU as jointly responsible for causing hundreds of entirely preventable deaths in the Mediterranean since the beginning of the year, and thousands in the years before.

A woman holds a 3 month old baby as migrants and refugees from different African nationalities wait for assistance on an overcrowded rubber boat, as aid workers of the Spanish NGO Open Arms approach themv. (AP Photo/Bruno Thevenin)

The latest disaster took place on Monday, May 16. A boat that was reportedly carrying 90 people when it departed from Libya sank off Tunisias southern coast, near the city of Sfax, the following day. Only 33 of the passengers survived, saved by workers on a nearby oil platform, who spotted the boat sinking and alerted authorities. The survivors were all from Bengal. The remaining 57 passengers were never recovered.

The tragedy is the fifth such incident off the coast of Tunisia in just the last two months. Another 17 people drowned at the beginning of the month. The deadliest single drowning of the year took place on April 21, when more than 130 people are presumed to have drowned after their boat sank off the coast of Libya.

The United Nations reports that a staggering 685 people have drowned in the Mediterranean since the beginning of this year. Over the past seven years, the number is over 20,000. Yet even these appalling tallies are likely significant underestimates, because they do not count the untold numbers who perished without leaving a trace.

These deaths are the intended outcome of the policies of the European Union and its member states, which have turned the sea separating Africa from Europe into a vast graveyard to deter refugees from exercising their legal and democratic right to claim asylum on the continent.

This was all but acknowledged in a report published yesterday by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), entitled Lethal disregard: Search and rescue and the protection of migrants in the central Mediterranean Sea.

It notes that there has been a significant and continuing rise in the mortality rate of boat crossings over the past four years. In 2017, when 119,310 migrants reached Europe, the mortality rate was already almost 2 percent, or one in every 51 people who attempt to make the journey. By 2018, it had reached one in 35. In 2019, it reached one in every 21 people.

At least since August 2017, the report states, the EU and its Member States have gradually reduced their maritime assets in the central Mediterranean, shifting responsibility for search and rescue operations in international waters to the Libyan border force.

In March 2020, the former Operation SOPHIA of the EU in the Mediterranean was replaced by operation IRINI however, IRINI vessels have no specific search and rescue mandate, and its more eastward operational area also avoids placing EU maritime assets in the area of the central Mediterranean where most migrants seek to cross

In other words, the EU ceased its rescue operations in the Mediterranean. Meanwhile, NGO rescue ships have had their sailing rights stripped on baseless pretexts and been denied flags to sail under by EU member states, to prevent them from carrying out rescues.

Humanitarian SAR vessels and aircraft operating in the central Mediterranean continue to be prevented from monitoring, searching for, assisting and rescuing migrants in distress, the report states.

At various times during the reporting period, this led to periods in which no humanitarian SAR NGOs were present at sea in the central Mediterranean, leading to tragic and preventable loss of life. Since 2018 alone, national authorities in EU member states have initiated some 50 administrative and criminal proceedings against crew members or vessels, including the impounding or seizure of vessels.

Meanwhile, the EU provides funding and live intelligence on refugee boats to the Libyan coastguard, to whom it has contracted out to catch refugees and return them to Libya, in gross violation of international law.

Once in Libya, they become vulnerable to unlawful killings, slavery and forced labour, torture and ill-treatment, gender-based violence, arbitrary detention, extortion, and other human rights violations and abuses by both State and non-State actors, which have been confirmed by an overwhelming amount of evidence and reports, including previous public statements and reporting by OHCHR.

This is only the latest report documenting the illegal and murderous refugee policy of the EU. Like all previous such reports, it will be ignored by EU governments, and noted briefly if at all by international media outlets, who will quickly move on.

Just this week, these same governments and news publications have been gripped by moral outrage over the actions of the Belarussian government, which forced down a RyanAir plane carrying an opposition journalist and kidnapped him. The European powers have suspended all flights to Belarus, blocked investments to the country, and issued a series of provocative militarist threats against Belarus ally Russia.

As the WSWS noted, these actions have nothing to do with the defense of democracy and the rule of law, but are driven by the geopolitical interests of the major imperialist European powers.

One need only ask what would happen if hundreds of refugees were drowning off the coast of Russia or China each month, with documented evidence that it was an intended result of their policies. The drownings would be featured in front-page columns. As it is, refugee drownings in the Mediterranean are treated by the European media and political establishment as non-events.

EU anti-migrant policies are aimed at diverting outward social tensions produced by the enormous levels of social inequality and poverty across the continent. They are also one of the mechanisms through which the EU is strengthening and promoting extreme-right politics. The defense of the rights of all people to live and work in whatever country they choose, with full citizenship rights, including the provision of safe passage, is an elemental task of the working class of Europe.
We are publishing below a slightly edited speech by Bernie Monk, whose son Michael was one of 29 men who died in the 2010 Pike River mine disaster. The speech was recorded and played in the May 8 webinar, Ten years after the Pike River mine disaster: Political lessons in the fight for truth about the deaths of 29 miners. The webinar was hosted by the Socialist Equality Group (SEG) in New Zealand, to discuss the causes of the 2010 Pike River disaster and the efforts by successive New Zealand governments, aided and abetted by the trade unions and the entire political establishment, to protect the corporate criminals responsible.

SEG member Tom Peters speech reviewed in detail the complicity of National Party and Labour Party-led governments, including Labours allies the Green Party and the NZ First Party, and the Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union, in the conditions that led to the disaster, and the ongoing cover-up. Socialist Equality Party (Australia) member Terry Cook also gave a speech, titled The lessons of the 1994 Moura mine disaster in Australia.

The World Socialist Web Site is calling for working people throughout the world to send messages of support for the fight by the Pike River Families Committee for a full and thorough underground investigation of the mine. The committee, representing 23 of the 29 victims families, is opposing the moves by Prime Minister Jacinda Arderns government to shut down the investigation before it uncovers critical evidence that could lead to the prosecution of company leaders responsible for the disaster.

Bernie Monk speaking to the Socialist Equality Group's webinar.

There has been a huge coverup at Pike River. I could sense it from very early on. The real turning point in this story was when someone came to me just before Easter 2011, and showed me a photo of self-rescue boxes open underground [suggesting that men could have survived the initial explosion on November 19]. We then went to the police and we got them to show us the evidence for this.

As we went on and interviewed people we realised how bad it was. Its just been an endless story. To think that were 10 years down the track, still havent got justice, still havent got accountability, and the families had to go out and do an investigation of their own. Because theres the same police force overseeing the present investigation of the disaster that did the initial investigation. I just dont think thats right.

I think its wrong that the families have had to do their own investigation, and had to protest outside the mine to stop it from being sealed in late 2016. ACC [the state-owned Accident Compensation Corporation], who were shareholders in Pike River Coal, and the Bank of New Zealand, which was a major creditor, have never come and knocked on our door and said that they want to help to retrieve the men.

The National Party government continuously lied to us, claiming it would re-enter the mine to investigate and retrieve the bodies. Now weve nearly come full circle. The official investigation has come to the end of the drift tunnel, and now weve got to fight the Labour Party government to finish the job.

Weve got a good band of experts, top people from overseas, and Im humbled by the faith that theyve had in the families and by all the work that theyve done. They have done this investigation and explained on paper how to do this job.

Ive asked [Minister for Pike River Recovery] Andrew Little: Who are his experts? Ive written to him three times. Ive had no replies. I asked him, when he spoke about the amount it would cost to finish the job: Who are the people who are investigating the cost of re-entering the mine workings? Still, Ive had no answer. Ive rung local Labour Party MP Damien OConnorstill no reply.

Workers stroll by a bouquet of flowers for victims of mine explosion lie on the road near the Pike River mine at Greymouth, New Zealand, Tuesday, June 28, 2011. (AP Photo/The Press via NZPA, Iain McGregor, Pool)

But our fight is going to continue. Were going to bring the truth out, and weve got all the information now to be able to do that.

I have to take my hat off to people that have come and helped us. The biggest turning point was the select committee hearing in 2016 that was arranged by writer Dame Fiona Kidman, and mining expert Tony Forster, the former chief inspector of mines for the government. Along with myself and other family members, we went up to Wellington and spoke at a select committee. NZ First leader Winston Peters put the stake in the ground and said that he would go down into the mine. He knew that this job could be done.

New Zealand, and the world, youve got to realise that weve seen bodies of men in pictures taken by cameras lowered into the mine. Weve got SCADA [electrical] data from the mine. Weve got all the information. Yet the police do not want to share anything with us. They say that to share information with the families could undermine their investigation. Well, theyve had 10 years to investigate this. Weve had 18 months, and weve found out that some information given to the royal commission by the Department of Labour and police was incorrect.

How is the official investigation being conducted? Theyre trying to wear us out, theyre trying to sweep this under the table and hoping that well go away. Well, its not going to happen.

The people I hold responsible, and that should be in the courts, are not only Pike River. There is also the Department of Labour (now called WorkSafe): they knew that this mine was unsafe; Mines Rescue: they said in the royal commission that this mine had never had a second form of egress; and the Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union: union members went to them and said that this mine was unsafe. What did they do? They did absolutely nothing.

Now the government claims the investigation will cost too much money. Well, if they are going to renovate the parliament buildings for over $200 million, they can spend a bit more money on getting justice and accountability. What Im saying to New Zealand is: do not let corporate manslaughter be governed by money. Thats what happened here. Pike River Coal paid money out, and they let people off the charges that should have laid in the first place. Thats what our fights all about.

Kath Monk, Bernies wife and Michaels mother, added the following statement:

I want people to realise that another reason the families are so insistent on having someone accountable for whats happened, is so that everyone in New Zealand who goes to work can be sure that they come home safely. Our men didnt. No ones been held accountable for that, and thats not right.
The strike by 700 nurses at Saint Vincent Hospital in Worcester, Massachusetts, is now in its 12th week. After facing years of reduced staffing and horrific conditions during the pandemic, the nurses are demanding a contract that guarantees safe nurse-to-patient ratiosan urgent necessity to protect the health and lives of patients and nurses alike.

In an effort to break the strike, Tenet Healthcare, the Dallas-based health care giant, recently posted 102 positions for permanent replacements of striking nurses, offering thousands of dollars in signing bonuses. Last week, after an initial screening, Saint Vincent made an undisclosed number of offers to applicants for the permanent replacement positions. Should the positions be filled, striking nurses would be jobless once the strike ended.

Nurses on the picket line at St. Vincent Hospital in Worcester, Massachusetts (Credit: MNA Facebook)

In response, the nurses union, the Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA), is offering nothing but toothless rhetoric. It has waged no fight to mobilize its 23,000 members against open strikebreaking and the mass firing of the Worcester nurses, who are waging a courageous struggle of life-and-death importance to health care workers everywhere.

Nurses in the US and internationally have been calling for mass labor action since the start of the pandemic 16 months ago. Like so many other hospital systems, Saint Vincent was woefully unprepared. Not only were PPE levels insufficient, forcing nurses to stow used masks in Tupperware bins and wear shower curtains for gowns, but the cancellation of elective procedures led to mass layoffs. Already understaffed, nurses were suddenly tasked with dealing with the mass influx of seriously ill COVID-19 patients, plus additional responsibilities previously covered by unit secretaries and personal care assistants.

Nurses who spoke with WSWS reporters described understaffing so dire that it took three hours for the pleas of an elderly patient to be answered by a passing custodian. In a typically cynical response to nurses demands for more support, management offered to place floor pads and blankets bedside hospital beds to cushion the falls of unattended patients. Speaking to WSWS reporters in March, nurses confirmed reports of patients waiting for hours in soiled bed linens and others failing to receive needed medications. They also told of falls and preventable deaths.

Nurses at Saint Vincent Hospital had been working without a contract since the previous one expired in November 2019. They spoke of nightmarish conditions since March 2020, comparing them to a mass shooting.

But the union and its bargaining committee refused to call a strike throughout the entirety of 2020, dragging nurses through months of failed negotiations while conditions remained unchanged. Nurses statewide were instructed by the MNA to file safety complaints with hospital management for circumstances like those described above.

Nurses at Saint Vincent filed more than 600 such complaints before going out on strikemore than two a day. There is no doubt that the number of filed reports does not accurately reflect the full extent of the hazardous conditions faced by nurses, patients and support staff, as filling out a report is a time-consuming task for nurses already overburdened.

Tenet Healthcare has spent tens of millions of dollars on salaries, lodging and transportation for strikebreakers, as well as for surveillance cameras and beefed-up internal security. The Worcester police have done their strikebreaking bit with added deployments to intimidate picketers.

Now, 12 weeks into the strike, with negotiations stalled, Tenet has cast its move to begin firing nurses en masse as a humanitarian effort to increase patient safety and support strikebreakers and nurses who break ranks and cross the picket line. The MNA, for its part, has cynically and dishonestly downplayed the threat of mass firings, calling it just a ploy.

Such back-stabbing exposes the corporatist character of the MNA and the official unions more generally. Several other MNA bargaining units across Massachusetts are in the middle of stalled contract negotiations over similarly intolerable conditions, with nurses making similar demands as their sisters and brothers at Saint Vincent for improved staffing levels. But the union executives work to block strike action and, when that proves impossible, seek to isolate the strikers and prevent them from broadening their struggle.

The MNA executives, with the arrogance that typifies the union bureaucracy, defend this treachery in the name of democracy and the autonomy of local bargaining committees. Of course, the Saint Vincent nurses are not fooled by such stupid pretexts. They know the union executives, who continue to pocket their six-figure salaries while withholding regular strike pay from the rank-and-file, are deliberately leaving them to contend with Tenet, which took in $414 million in profits last year, on their own.

Over the past week, 840 MNA nurses at Cape Cod hospitals in Falmouth and Hyannis have held two one-day pickets to demand safe staffing levels. They are demanding that the hospitals hire charge nurses for the express purpose of assisting regular nurses who are overloaded or have complex assignments.

In April, dozens of nurses who work for Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA) and belong to an MNA bargaining unit that negotiates contracts for CHA hospitals in Somerville, Cambridge and Everett, Massachusetts, picketed in support of their demands for a better contract. In addition to retroactive pay raises, a defense of paid time off, and the recognition of support staff as union-eligible, CHA nurses are seeking to exempt shift supervisors from having their own assignments while overseeing the assignments of floor nurses.

The union is forcing the Saint Vincent strikers to rely on an ad hoc strike fund, per diem work, their spouses income, if they have one, and unemployment insurance to stay afloat. Meanwhile, the MNA sits on a war chest of millions.

An MNA union official on the picket line told WSWS reporters that nurses knowingly gave up strike pay when they joined the union. This lie is used to justify siphoning nurses dues payments into the pockets of a layer of upper-middle class union functionaries and the state Democratic Party.

The MNA, like the UFCW, which averted a strike by its 600 support workers at Saint Vincent by forcing through a sell-out deal, is opposed to a mass movement of workers to secure safe working conditions against the dictates of for-profit health care companies and the financial aristocracy. On the contrary, its interests are at odds with those of the working class.

Nurses throughout Massachusetts, and all health care workers nationally and internationally, including the thousands of recently mobilized nursing home workers in Connecticut, must take the struggle for safe working conditions and a health system that prioritizes the needs of patients out of the hands of the corporatist trade unions.

The Socialist Equality Party and the WSWS urge the nurses at Saint Vincent Hospital to form a rank-and-file committee to broaden their struggle, uniting with nurses at the Cape Cod hospitals in Hyannis and Falmouth, the CHA hospitals in Somerville, Cambridge, and Everett, the nurses at Tenet-owned MetroWest Hospital, and nurses in other MNA bargaining units with expired contracts.
On Wednesday, US President Joe Biden publicly embraced the conspiracy theory that COVID-19 may have been released from Chinas Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), ordering the US intelligence agencies to produce a report within 90 days into the potentially man-made origins of the disease.

The intelligence agencies tasked with determining whether COVID-19 is a biological weapon played a leading role in one of the greatest crimes of the twenty-first centurythe 2003 US invasion of Iraq, based on allegations manufactured by the Central Intelligence Agency that Iraq possessed chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons of mass destruction. That lie led to the death of over 1 million people and engulfed the Middle East in war that has lasted to this day.

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)

Now, an even greater and more dangerous lie is being perpetrated. The Biden administration, like the Trump administration before it, is attempting to blame China for a disease that led by some estimates to the deaths of at least 1 million people in the US. If, as the Trump administration publicly asserted, COVID-19 is a weaponized virus sent by Beijing against the American population, it would constitute grounds for war against the most populous country in the world.

As with weapons of mass destruction, leaks from anonymous intelligence officials are being presented as evidence in a coordinated media campaign. Within a matter of a few days, the entire US media has embraced this discredited conspiracy theory, summed up by an article by the Washington Post s lead fact checker entitled How the Wuhan lab-leak theory suddenly became credible.

The stage for this sudden reversal was set by an article published in the Wall Street Journal Sunday, claiming that a previously undisclosed US intelligence report reveals three staff at the institute became sick and sought hospital care in November 2019. The article implied that these three cases are the real origin of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Journal article, however, includes nothing fundamentally new beyond the contents of a fact sheet published by the Trump State Department on January 15.

In other words, the most the CIA, NSA and their counterparts could find, funded with tens of billions of dollars to spy on the entire world, is that a few people who work at the WIV happened to get symptoms that the State Department fact sheet itself admits are consistent withcommon seasonal illnesses the month before the virus was first detected.

The story was picked up almost immediately by other major news outlets, including the Washington Post, Forbes, the New York Times, Reuters, CNN and others. It has also been parroted, perhaps most shamefully of all, by Dr. Anthony Fauci, who was seen by millions of people as a voice of scientific clarity regarding the dangers of the virus as Trump was claiming that the pandemic would just go away.

When questioned about the Journal s story on Tuesday, Fauci stated, Because we dont know 100 percent what the origin is, its imperative that we look and we do an investigation. His comments are a complete 180-degree turn from what he said last year when asked a similar question. At the time he stated: A number of very qualified evolutionary biologists have said that everything about the stepwise evolution over time strongly indicates that it evolved in nature and then jumped species.

According to the original proponents of the Wuhan lab conspiracy theory, such as the Chinese billionaire Miles Guo and the far-right Epoch Times, the Chinese government created SARS-CoV-2 as a biological weapon using funding for gain-of-function experiments by the US National Institute of Health. This line was picked up by numerous right-wing politicians, including Rand Paul, who as recently as May 11 accused Fauci of authorizing such research.

In the watered-down version now promoted by the Washington Post and New York Times, COVID-19 may have escaped from the Wuhan Institute of Virology. In both scenarios, however, blame for the at least 3.5 million deaths caused by the pandemic is placed squarely on China.

Such assertions were rejected by an inquiry into the origins of COVID-19 by the World Health Organization (WHO) this past January and February. Drawing on the collective efforts of an international team of the worlds leading epidemiological researchers from Australia, China, Denmark, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Qatar, Russia, the United States and Vietnam, the joint WHOChina report considered the possibility of a laboratory leak and dismissed it as extremely unlikely. The report declared, There is no record of viruses closely related to SARS-CoV-2 in any laboratory before December 2019, or genomes that in combination could provide a SARS-CoV-2 genome.

The WHO report instead reaffirmed what every credible scientist takes as correct, that the virus came from a natural source, most likely from a population of bats, and jumped through a series of other animals before finally mutating to be contagious and deadly to humans.

Lacking any positive evidence for their man-made virus angle, both the Biden administration and the US media began to denounce the WHO report as untrustworthy because Chinese public health officials were involved. To that end, Biden enlisted 13 of its closer allies and released a joint statement on March 30 calling for an independent investigation that would not have Chinese interference and undue influence.

Essentially, they are insisting that China do the impossible: 100 percent prove the negative that the virus did not originate in one of its labs. At the same time, knowing that it can take years to locate the natural origin of a new diseaseit took 13 years to confirm the origins of the first SARS virus, and the origins of Ebola are still being researchedthey are taking the anti-scientific approach of proposing a theory and claiming that any gaps in knowledge of the pandemics origins support their claim.

It is worth noting that such hypotheses about the origins of COVID-19 bear a remarkable similarity to older right-wing ideas about the origins of HIV, that it was developed by the United States government in order to suppress various populations, particularly those of African and Hispanic descent and homosexuals. Fauci, who helped lead the initial fight against the HIV/AIDS pandemic in the 1980s, is no doubt aware of these parallels, and of the immensely detrimental effect they have had on educating workers and youth about the dangers of the disease and the precautions that can be taken to prevent it.

Promoting the false idea that the coronavirus pandemic is man-made is even more dangerous. Over the course of just 15 months, more than 600,000 people in the US have been reported dead from COVID-19, and the true tally is likely closer to 1 million. The official global death toll is over three-and-a-half million. There is an immense amount of social anger over so many having died that is looking for an outlet. By promoting the Wuhan lab lie, the Biden administration is seeking to deflect responsibility for the policies of the financial elite and blame its geopolitical adversary in a form of war guilt.

Such actions are part and parcel of the Biden administrations war drive against China. Since taking office, Biden has attempted to create a political framework to wage war, backed by the media. These include claims of Chinese genocide against its Muslim Uyghur minority, potential Chinese aggression against Taiwan, and, above all, the implication that the mass suffering of the past year and a half is ultimately because ofat bestChinas neglect, orat worstthe most lethal bio-weapon ever unleashed.

By promoting these ideas, the Biden administration is also attempting to take pressure off its own domestic policy, which is essentially the same as Trumps. The American working class is keenly aware that the vast majority of the deaths caused by the pandemic could have been prevented if basic public health measures had been put into place from the very beginning, measures that Trump fought against at every step and which Biden is now abandoning wholesale.

Now that Biden, the Wall Street Journal and the Washington Post have given life to the Wuhan lab lie, it will become part of the political bloodstream of the country. Having legitimized it, they will lose control of it as the extreme right wing is strengthened by the propagation of such reactionary conceptions. It will serve as a motive for violent attacks on Asian Americans, which have surged over the past year.

The Washington Post has explicitly promoted the fascistic Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) as someone who from the start promoted this conspiracy theory and who the history books may eventually reward. Cotton maintains that the 2020 election was stolen and that Trump is still the legitimate chief executive, and giving him such credibility only supports the political forces behind the January 6 insurrection.

It is these forces that ultimately benefit from the atmosphere of anti-science and xenophobia being engendered by the Biden administration and the US media establishment. They have no interest in protecting the lives of the American population, much less seeking the truth of the pandemics origins, but are attempting to protect the countrys corporate and financial interests while preparing for new imperialist campaigns abroad.

The Biden administrations cynical efforts to blame China for the crimes of American capitalism must be opposed. American workers must reject xenophobia and nationalism and say together with their Chinese brothers and sisters: Our enemy is the capitalist class!
Since April 30, more than 190,000 Quebec construction workers have been working without a contract. Despite the workers being in a legal strike position since Tuesday morning and enjoying broad popular support, the Construction Union Alliance has refused to call a strike and is working tirelessly behind the scenes to reach a rotten sellout deal with management.

Negotiations are still ongoing between the Quebec Construction Association (ACQ) which represents the employers and the Construction Union Alliance which includes the five construction unions (FTQ-Construction, Provincial Council, Quebec Construction Union, CSD-Construction and CSN-Construction).

A construction worker (snappygoat.com)

The process is dominated by the ACQs demands for further attacks on wages, pensions, benefits and working conditions.

While the Union Alliance is keeping workers in the dark about the content of the negotiations, all indications are that it has accepted major concessions. It submitted a final offer on Sunday that meets most of the employers demands. Its spokesman, Eric Boisjoly, said the parties are within striking distance of an agreement on major benefit issues.

The only point of contention is the employers demand that an app be installed on workers personal smartphones to monitor hours spent on the job. While declaring itself open to such an app, the Union Alliance says it fears for workers privacy because of geolocation and is asking that the proposal be excluded from the current negotiations and postponed for later discussion.

As of Tuesday evening, the ACQ had not yet given an official response to the offer made by the unions on Sunday. The two parties continued to negotiate yesterday.

It is still possible the ACQ will reject the union offer in order to provoke a strike, knowing full well that the pro-business CAQ (Coalition Avenir Quebec) government stands ready to intervene quickly with back-to-work legislation.

When such a scenario was invoked, Labour Minister Jean Boulet indicated that there is nothing that is excluded, while stating that we cannot ... tolerate a conflict. The contracts that would be imposed by an arbitrator appointed by the Quebec government following the imposition of a law criminalizing strike action would invariably be to the advantage of the employers.

All construction workers should be warned that the Union Alliance is preparing to impose new collective agreements filled with major concessionswhether through a phony negotiation process from which rank-and-file workers have been completely excluded, or through enforcing anti-democratic back-to-work legislation against which union leaders will not lift a finger.

There is an alternative to this path of betrayal. As Quebecs 192,000 construction workers are in a legal position to strike, more than half a million Quebec public sector workers are in a similar position, having worked for over a year now without collective agreements. While the construction and public sector unions are doing everything to keep workers apart, they are objectively facing the same attacks on wages and working conditions, and the same threats of back-to-work legislation, from the employers and the big business CAQ government.

A unified struggle of these two key sections of workers, who have an immense combined social weight, would have the potential to trigger a working class counteroffensive in Quebec and across Canada against the austerity agenda of the entire capitalist ruling elite.

As in many other sectors, construction workers have faced an unending attack on their wages and conditions for decades. In the current negotiations, the unions were initially asking for 12.2 percent wage increases over 4 years while the ACQ was offering 7.5 percent. The business newspaper Les Affaires recently reported that the unions had reduced their demand to a meager 8.2 percent, which represents at best a freeze in real wages for the next 4 years.

On a number of key issues, including the medical insurance (MEDIC) and pension plans, the employers are seeking further concessions, with workers asked to contribute more from their own pockets.

Meanwhile, working conditions in the industry continue to worsen. According to a survey conducted in January by Quebecs Construction Commission, 35 percent of new workers leave the industry after only five years. Among the principal reasons cited for these departures, 50 percent of respondents mentioned job insecurity and speedup to meet shortened production times. Furthermore, one worker out of three finds that the industry is not safe enough. These fears are more than justified. Even though the construction industry accounts for only 5 percent of the workforce, it represents 25 percent of the deaths that occur in Quebec as a result of work-related accidents.

However, anger and militancy are inadequate if the sweeping concessions demanded by the employers and supported by the Francois Legault-led CAQ government are to be defeated. Construction workers must prepare for a political confrontation with the Legault government and the entire ruling elite that it represents.

As in 2013 under the Parti Quebecois (PQ) government of Pauline Marois and in 2017 under the Liberal government of Philippe Couillard, the capitalist state is once again preparing to deploy the repressive tools at its disposal to back the construction bosses assault on workers wages and conditions.

It should be recalled that in 2017, Legaults CAQ, then in opposition, fully supported Couillard when he passed Bill 142 to illegalize a province-wide construction workers strike.

And just a few weeks ago, Justin Trudeaus federal Liberal government criminalized the strike by the 1150 dockers at the Port of Montreal after only 4 days with the full support of its Quebec counterpart. The dockers, like the construction workers, were protesting speed-up and dangerous working conditions, as well as attacks on job security and a rigid disciplinary system that has seen dozens of workers fired.

Construction workers are ready to fight back but are faced with a pro-capitalist union bureaucracy that is dedicated to imposing the employers demands and suppressing working class resistance in the name of upholding social peace.

During the 2017 strike, the Union Alliance enforced compliance with the back-to-work legislation, fearing that any defiance by construction workers would serve as the spark for a mass movement against the hated Liberal government of Philippe Couillard.

The courageous strike of crane operators in June 2018 is another glaring example of the cooperation between the union bureaucracy, big business, and the government. At the time, 2,000 crane operators went on strike for 8 days because of a significant drop in training requirements for new operators, which posed a major threat to health and safety on the job. When the strikers defied a court order, FTQ Construction threatened to place their local under trusteeship and otherwise indicated its support for workers facing heavy fines. Ultimately, the union strangled the strike, and promptly accepted the governments new training requirements for crane operators with cosmetic adjustments.

Over the past year, the COVID-19 pandemic has claimed the lives of more than 11,000 Quebecers and over 25,000 Canadians. It has also exposed the role of unions as accomplices of the ruling elite in imposing the reopening of the economy, i.e., maintaining a steady stream of profits, by allowing the virus to spread freely among the population, bringing death and suffering on a massive scale.

At the beginning of the pandemic in the spring of 2020, a powerful intervention by construction workers, autoworkers, and other manufacturing workers across Canada forced the closure of plants and worksites and pushed governments to institute a lockdown. But since then, the unions have worked with the Legault and Trudeau governments to force workers back to work as the pandemic rages on, putting their health and lives, and those of their families, at great risk.

Since the beginning of the pandemics second wave, workplaces and schools have become the greatest vectors for the spread of the coronavirus. Construction sites have been no exception, as evidenced by the 1,400 complaints filed by workers and the 17,686 correction notices issued to contractors between March 13, 2020 and May 5, 2021.

At the end of April this year, 34 worksites had an outbreak, 3 times the weekly average in last November, and 70 facilities had an outbreak, more than double the number in March.

If they are to avoid another sellout dealwhether negotiated or imposed via back-to-work legislationconstruction workers must wrest the control of their struggle out of the hands of the Union Alliance.

They must form rank-and-file committees, entirely independent of the pro-capitalist unions, to mobilize the entire working class across Canada in a unified struggle to defend jobs and working conditions for all. This industrial mobilization of the working class must be combined with the development of a mass political movement for the formation of a workers government that will reorganize the economy to meet social needs, not ensure profits for a tiny minority.
With Sao Paulo and all of Brazil facing the threat of a third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, right-wing Governor Joao Doria (PSDB-Brazilian Social Democracy Party) last week announced new measures to lift restrictions on nonessential services. Also planned this week are measures that increase the maximum number of students in classrooms.

Even in the face of this open policy to subordinate human lives to private profits, pseudo-left organizations and the Sao Paulo state teachers union, the APEOESP, have kept a complacent silence about the millionaire governors herd immunity policy.

Sao Paulo, the richest and most populous state in Brazil, is a center of the pandemic tragedy in the country with 108,000 COVID-19 deaths (out of 453,000 nationally) and 3.2 million cases. After a devastating second wave in March and April, the first weeks of May saw a small drop in the number of cases and deaths and ICU bed occupancy. However, in what many experts point to as a new surge, this week saw a 19 percent increase in the number of cases, and for the first time since late April, the ICU bed occupancy rate exceeded 80 percent.

A teacher works with students, all of them wearing masks, on the first day back to in-person classes amid the COVID-19 pandemic at the Raul Antonio Fragoso public school in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Monday, Feb. 8, 2021. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)

In the most recent press conference to update the supposed pandemic containment plan, the Sao Paulo Plan, held last Wednesday, the Doria government made clear its policy of normalizing death by abandoning the most basic measures to contain the spread of the coronavirus. Joao Gabbardo, executive coordinator of the scientific committee that guides the governments policies, said that in the next four weeks there is a forecast of an increase from 10,000 to 11,000 in the number of occupied ICU beds and an increase from 500 to 600 deaths per day.

Doria sharing a tweet from Lula praising the governor of Sao Paulo for his actions in fighting the pandemic (Twitter)

Even in the face of such figures, which are undoubtedly an underestimate and ignore the spread of the Indian variant, detected last Thursday in Brazil, the government of Sao Paulo announced that, starting July 1, nonessential services will increase both operating hours from 9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and maximum occupancy from 40 percent to 60 percent.

This new relaxation came with the announcement of the vaccination of people from 55 to 59 years old and education professionals between the ages of 18 and 46 starting on July 1 and 21, respectively. Education professionals over 47 already received the first shot in April. According to Governor Doria, the intention is to resume classes beginning the second semester with complete safety. The secretary of education, Rossieli Soares, said that the vaccination of education professionals will still allow a review of protocols and quantitative rules, that is, it will allow the increase of the maximum number of students in class.

Sao Paulo could not have reached this catastrophic situation without the total complicity of the APEOESP, affiliated with the Workers Party (PT)-controlled CUT union federation, and the pseudo-left organizations that sow the illusions that workers struggles can be advanced only by putting pressure on the union bureaucracies and the PT. Directly or indirectly, they are promoting the candidacy of former PT President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in next years presidential elections as the only option in the struggle against the government of Brazils fascistic President Jair Bolsonaro.

The president of the APEOESP, PT state Deputy Maria Isabel Noronha, known as Bebel, welcomed the vaccination of teachers by the Doria government, saying she was very pleased with the information. She further advanced the fraudulent claim that the APEOESP won the vaccination of education professionals. As Doria and Soares have made very clear, the vaccination of teachers has been one of the ways the government is forcing teachers back into unsafe schools with the pandemic out of control.

Bebel also wrote not a single word on her social media accounts or on the union website about the relaxation of COVID restrictions in Sao Paulo. On the contrary, she used her social media to promote Lulas candidacy after last weeks election polls showed the former president as the frontrunner in the 2022 election race. After posting that Lula will run for president in 2022!, she wrote that BRAZILIANS WANT TO HAVE HOPE AGAIN. AND THE NAME OF HOPE, ONCE AGAIN, IS LULA! Bebels celebration of the vaccination of teachers echoed Lulas praise last year of Dorias pandemic policy.

After Lulas conviction on corruption charges was overturned by the Supreme Court in March, the former president has been trying to rebuild political alliances with the most right-wing elements in Brazilian politics which backed the PTs 13 years of bourgeois rule but are now part of the Bolsonaro government. Lula has also had the support of prominent leaders of the pseudo-left Socialism and Freedom Party (PSOL), such as Congressman Marcelo Freixo, the partys chief advocate of a broad front against Bolsonaro. Since last year, the broad front policy has been implemented by the CUT, whose last two May Day rallies featured figures like the hated neo-liberal former President Fernando Henrique Cardoso (PSDB), with whom Lula also met last week.

Fernando Henrique Cardoso and Lula last week (Twitter)

Meanwhile, the state schools of Sao Paulo remain open. The APEOESP and Bebel have concentrated the full weight of the unions actions on a court decision prohibiting the return to classes in the red and orange phases of the Sao Paulo Plan. The Doria government insists it will not comply with the ruling. Today, Sao Paulo is in a transition phase between the orange and red phases. This situation was made possible after the APEOESP sabotaged a strike against school reopenings in February that presented numbers even greater than the current 2,500 cases and 90 deaths among teachers since the beginning of the school year.

Pseudo-lefts role in sabotaging teachers strike

This sabotage of the strike was carried out in coordination with the various PSOL tendencies that are part of the unions executive board, mainly the Morenoite Resistencia group. It had already advocated that the beginning of the strike be postponed for two weeks, even if this meant more teachers and students in the schools, and consequently more infections and deaths. In all the online assemblies held until the union finally shut down the strike in early March, when the government closed the schools with the outbreak of the second wave, Resistencia openly advocated ending the walkout.

Today, Resistencia is one of several organizations of the Brazilian pseudo-left that are assisting in subordinating workers struggles to the bourgeois state and to Lula. In its latest editorial on the website Esquerda Online, Resistencia wrote that in addition to the left pressuring Congress ... for the immediate launching of the impeachment of Bolsonaro, Lula should put his political weight behind the Bolsonaro Out campaign. Lula has already made it quite clear he has no intention doing anything of the kind as he prepares for next years election.

But perhaps no pseudo-left organization can perform so many political acrobatics and offer the PSOL and PT, as well as the APEOESP and CUT, a better left cover than another Morenoite organization, the Revolutionary Workers Movement (MRT), the Brazilian section of the Argentine-based Trotskyist Fraction,, which publishes the Izquierda Diario website.

Since the reopening of schools in Sao Paulo, the MRT has insisted that the teachers struggle is not for closing schools until the pandemic is eradicated, but to demand safe conditions for a return to the classrooms from the government. It has claimed that it is possible to reopen schools by organizing the school community for a safe return, that is, that the school community, together with the teachers, can decide on the return, not Doria and Soares, who know nothing about the reality of our schools.

This, however, is a complete fraud. First, it has proven impossible to implement anti-COVID-19 protocols in schools with such precarious infrastructures. How, if it is already impossible to solve a global pandemic on a national level, could this be accomplished on the local level of each school remains totally unexplained by the Brazilian Morenoites.

Morenoites echo right wing in opposing measures to halt pandemic

This position was justified in the April 18 international statement of the Trotskyist Fraction, The Capitalist Disaster and the Struggle for an International of the Socialist Revolution. Completely ignoring the fact that the European and American ruling elites closed factories at the beginning of the pandemic after workers launched wildcat strikes, it echoes the right wing by claiming that social distancing measures represent attempts to curtail democratic freedoms and rights, while further demanding the end ... of curfews, which serve in no way to address the pandemic.

This position is totally unscientific and anti-Marxist. In the absence of medicines against COVID-19 and amid a totally inadequate vaccination campaign, the only measure to combat the spread of the coronavirus is to implement social distancing measures.

At no point in the statement do they refer to the need to close nonessential services and schools to contain the pandemic. This policy advanced by the MRT has been accompanied by its promotion of hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin against COVID-19, two medicines widely touted by the fascist Bolsonaro in his drive to reopen the economy that have no efficacy against the disease.

The MRT has also made empty calls for the opposition to Bebel and the PT in the union, mainly the PSOL tendencies, including Resistencia, to build an anti-bureaucratic pole with class independence for broad democracy in the union and to pressure the APEOESP leadership to mobilize the teachers. Despite this, the MRT acknowledges that the opposition unfortunately points in another direction, offering a left cover for Bebel and the PT. Immersed in the same unions that have piled up betrayals and become experts at organizing defeats for the working class, they are seeking to conceal that they themselves offer this left cover to the APEOESP and the PT.

Outside of all these short-term maneuvers in the unions, based on the most opportunistic political alliances within the middle-class milieu in which the pseudo-left operates, there is a tectonic process that has been building up for years in Brazil, and which, as seen most recently in Colombia, is at the point of erupting.

Throughout the past decade, Brazilian youth have held consecutive occupations of high schools and universities, while teachers have gone on strikes numerous times against the wage freezes and pension reforms of PSDB and PT governments. In 2019, the first year of the Bolsonaro government, millions took to the streets against cuts to the education budget. In the midst of the pandemic, numerous strikes and walkouts erupted against unsafe working conditions among call center, health care, industrial, oil, app delivery and, most recently, subway workers. At the end of April, private school teachers in Sao Paulo held walkouts against in-person classes, and last week the strike of Sao Paulo municipal school teachers against the reopening of schools completed 100 days.

In every instance, unions like the APEOESP, with the aid of the pseudo-left, have worked to isolate these strikes and protests and channel the enormous social anger into the dead end of bourgeois politics. In 2018, Resistencia and the MRT supported the PT candidate Fernando Haddad in the second round of the presidential election against Bolsonaro. Now, these same organizations downplay Bolsonaros ongoing coup threats and sow the illusion that Lula and the PT can solve the existential crisis of Brazilian capitalism.

Youth, teachers and the working class as a whole need another political perspective. Based on the historic betrayals of the unions and the understanding that they have ceased to be working class organizations, the International Committee of the Fourth International advocates a complete break with these procorporate organizations and the adoption of a socialist and internationalist program to put an end to the capitalist system.

To carry this struggle forward, the ICFI is calling for the formation of the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC), the only political instrument whose form and content can guarantee the working class a successful struggle against the herd immunity politics of the global capitalist elite and their pseudo-left apologists.
May 18 marked the 12th anniversary of the end of bloody 26-year communal war in Sri Lanka waged by successive Colombo governments against the separatist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and more broadly the islands Tamil minority.

Speaking in parliament on the day, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapakse glorified the armed forces for the liberation of the country from terrorism. He added: We ended the [war] era, displaced refugees were settled into their villages and public representatives from the North and East today are living with dignity, freedom and enjoy democracy.

Sri Lankan soldiers patrol in Jaffna, about 300 kilometers (186 miles) northeast of Colombo, Sri Lanka, in this Wednesday, June 21, 2006 photo. (AP Photo/Eranga Jayawardena, File)

This turns history upside down, hiding the brutal truth about the end of the war. The relentless military offensives in the early months of 2009 drove the LTTE along with hundreds of thousands of Tamil civilians into a small pocket of land near Mullaitivu on the northeast coast of the island.

The Sri Lankan military mercilessly pounded the area with artillery shells, and from the air, deliberately targeting hospitals, aid centres and designated civilian areas. According to UN estimates, at least 40,000 civilians were slaughtered. When the LTTE defences finally collapsed, the military murdered surrendering LTTE leaders and herded some 300,000 civilians into army-controlled detention camps. Hundreds of young people were hauled off for re-education to unknown locations.

Mahinda Rajapakse, who was Sri Lankan president at the time, was directly responsible for these war crimes and gross abuses of democratic rights. His younger brother, Gotabhaya Rajapakse, who is now the countrys president, oversaw these criminal military operations as defence secretary. He is directly implicated in the murder of LTTE leaders, who gave themselves up and carried white flags of surrender.

As for the situation facing the Tamil people today, those incarcerated in camps were resettled, with many still living in abject poverty in huts with elementary facilities. Around 90,000 war widows in the islands North and East are struggling to survive. The two war-torn provinces remain under heavy military occupation, with the Tamil population, particularly young people, constantly harassed and intimidated. Protests are taking place to demand information about the disappeared and the release of political prisoners.

While it was celebrating in the South its victory over the LTTE, the government unleashed a military-police crackdown in the North and East, arresting dozens for paying their respects to their loved ones who were killed in the massacre at Mullaitivu.

The government was forced to hold low-key victory celebrations this month because the COVID-19 pandemic is surging in the country. The Colombo regime is nervous about the developing mass opposition among workers and the poor who are facing wage and job cuts and rising prices for essential foods and other basic items.

The governments response to growing social unrest is to strengthen the armed forces in preparation for class war. As part of the victory celebrations, thousands of soldiers were promoted to higher ranks. In response to the defeat of the LTTE, the military has been expanded, not contracted, with its budget allocations increasing again this year to a massive 440 billion rupees ($US2.2 billion).

In opposition to the jubilation in ruling circles in 2009, the World Socialist Web Site wrote: The military defeat of the LTTE has done nothing to resolve the issues underlying the civil war. It has merely proved that the unity of the Sri Lankan state on a bourgeois basis could only be maintained through bloody repression and atrocities. (WSWS perspective on May 21, 2009).

The eruption of the war in 1983 was the result of the communal politics pursued by the Sri Lankan capitalist class and successive governments since formal independence in 1948 from British imperialism.

Unable to address any of the democratic or social questions facing working people and the oppressed masses, Colombo governments resorted to Sinhala-Buddhist supremacism and anti-Tamil chauvinism in every political crisis to divide and weaken the working class.

Shortly after independence, the government of the day abolished the citizenship rights of a million Tamil plantation workers brought from India as cheap labour by the British colonial rulers. In 1956, following a profound crisis of rule that led to an uprising by workers and the rural masses in 1953, the Sri Lanka Freedom Party won the election on the basis of a Sinhala-only policy that made Sinhala the only official language and relegated Tamils to second-class citizenship.

The Lanka Sama Samaja Party, which claimed to be Trotskyist, had initially acted as a brake on communalism, promoting the unity of the working classSinhala and Tamil. But its degeneration and betrayal in 1964, when it entered the capitalist government of Sirima Bandaranaike and embraced Sinhala populism, led to the formation of petty bourgeois radical organisations based on the armed struggle and communal politicsin particular, the LTTE among Tamil youth in the North and the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) among rural Sinhala youth in the South.

The right-wing United National Party (UNP) government of J. R. Jayawardene, which came to power in 1977, responded to the countrys economic crisis by implementing pro-market restructuring and encouraging foreign investors to take advantage of cheap labour. As working-class opposition erupted, Jayawardene rewrote the constitution to establish an autocratic executive presidency and engaged in one anti-Tamil provocation after another, culminating in the devastating anti-Tamil pogroms in 1983 that led to outbreak of open warfare.

The Socialist Equality Party (SEP)and its forerunner Revolutionary Communist League (RCL)is the only party that consistently opposed the communal war on the basis of the fight to unite the working class. We demanded unconditional withdrawal of the military from the North and East and defended the democratic rights of Tamil minority. At the same time, the RCL/SEP opposed LTTE separatism, which promoted the communal division of the working class.

In 1987, the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI) and the RCL advanced the perspective of Sri Lanka-Eelam Socialist Republic as part of fighting for a Union of Socialist States in South Asia. This program was based on the Trotskys Theory of Permanent Revolution, which emphasised that only the working class can provide the leadership to the rural poor and oppressed masses in solving democratic tasks as part of the struggle for socialism.

The protracted and devastating war demonstrated the inability of any section of the Sri Lankan bourgeoisie, all deeply mired in communal politics, to meet the democratic aspirations and social needs of working people. While Colombo governments sacrificed the lives of Sinhala youth to maintain the power and privileges of the majority Sinhala establishment, the bourgeois Tamil parties were seeking greater autonomy or a separate Tamil capitalist state to exploit the Tamil working class.

The SEP explained that the defeat of the LTTE in 2009 was not primarily a military question but was the result of its bourgeois-nationalist perspective. The LTTE was organically incapable of making a class appeal to Tamil workers, let alone to the working class elsewhere in Sri Lanka and internationally. As the devastating final army offensives were under way, it issued pathetic appeals to the international communitythat is, to the very powers including the US and India that were backing Colombos war and turning a blind eye to its atrocities.

The twelve years since the end of the war have only led to a deepening political crisis, as Sri Lanka has been swept up in sharpening geo-political tensions, particularly the US confrontation with China, and a worsening global economic situation, all of which has been compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic. The military and its brutal methods developed during the war are now being prepared for use against the working class, as unrest grows over the worsening social conditions facing working people.

The end of the war coincided with the 200809 global financial crisis. The Sri Lankan economy, already burdened with the heavy costs of the war and its devastation, was hit hard. The government of President Mahinda Rajapakse turned to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for financial assistance, implemented its austerity dictates and resorted to military and police repression against opposition from workers and the poor.

At the same time, the US was deeply hostile to Rajapakses ties with China, which had supplied arms and finance for the war. In a regime-change operation orchestrated from Washington, Rajapakse was defeated in the 2015 presidential election which brought Maithripala Sirisena to power, with the support of the UNP, the bourgeois Tamil National Alliance (TNA), the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna and also the pseudo-left groups.

The national unity government led by President Sirisena and UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister rapidly jettisoned its promises of good governance and improved living standards. Deeply implicated in the war and its atrocities themselves, Sirisena and Wickremesinghe ensured there was no genuine investigation into the crimes of the Rajapakse regime. As the economic crisis deepened, the government again turned to the IMF, imposed new burdens on the working class and poor, and used police-state methods to suppress social unrest.

The pseudo-left groups and trade unions, which had promoted and helped Sirisena and Wickremesinghe into power, defended the national unity government to the hilt and assisted in suppressing a growing wave of strikes and protests. The TNA, the chief representative of the Tamil bourgeoisie, was a de facto partner in the government.

The national unity government also led to a further fragmentation of the political establishment, with the two major parties of the ruling class, the UNP and SLFP, reduced to shells. In this highly unstable situation, Gotabhaya Rajapakse, backed by the military and significant sections of big business, exploited the mass disaffection to win the 2019 presidential election, in which the vote was deeply divided along communal lines. While Tamils did not vote for Rajapakse, the man responsible for war crimes, Sinhala working people did not vote for the United National Front candidate Sajith Premadasa, who had imposed new social burdens as part of the national unity government.

Rajapakse and the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) that backed him were also able to exploit the 2019 Easter Sunday terrorist attacks by a local Islamist extremist group that killed 270 people and injured many more, promising a strong and stable government that would be tough on national security.

The fact that Sri Lanka is now governed by the Rajapakse brothersthe two figures that bear the greatest responsibility for the militarys crimes and atrocities in the final months of the warmust serve as the sharpest warning to the working class. In the midst of a profound and social crisis, the bourgeoisie is relying on Gotabhaya Rajapakse and his promise of strong government to suppress mounting opposition from working class.

President Rajapakse has installed retired or in-service generals to key positions of the government, including retired Major General Kamal Gunaratne as defense secretary and Army Commander Major General Shavendra Silva as head of the national COVID-19 operation centre. At the same time, he rests heavily on Sinhala extremist groups and has helped whip up anti-Tamil and anti-Muslim chauvinism.

Workers need to draw the necessary political lessons from the disasters resulting from communal politics. Gotabhaya and Mahinda Rajapakse, who presided over the slaughter of tens of thousands of Tamil civilians, will not hesitate to use the same brutal methods against the working class and the urban and rural poor.

The working class cannot defend any of its democratic and social rights without rejecting all forms of nationalism and chauvinismboth Sinhala-Buddhist supremacism and Tamil separatismthat were responsible for the war. Only through a unified struggle against the capitalist class, their joint oppressors, and the profit system on which it rests can workers win to their side the rural toilers and fight for a workers and peasants government. Such a government would implement socialist policies to meet the pressing needs of the majority, not the profit requirements of the wealthy few, as part of the fight for socialism throughout South Asia and internationally.

We urge the workers and youth to join the SEP, which alone fights for this program.
Airbus, the worlds largest airliner manufacturer, has announced it will close its plant in Puerto Real. It comes barely a month after the Spanish trade unions backed by several pseudo-left groups called off strikes and protests after a meeting between Airbus and the trade unions did not officially announce a plant closure. In unison, they cynically declared it a victory.

The WSWS warned that even though the decision to close the plant had not been announced, closure is still on the table. It added that the Workers Commissions (CCOO) union, close to the Podemos party, and UGT, close to the Spanish Socialist Party (PSOE), had called off industrial action not because any victory has been achieved, but, on the contrary, as part of a ploy with Airbus management to demobilize the workers. The ploy continues to this day.

After calling off the demonstrations, the unions conspired behind workers backs with the PSOE-Podemos government. A day before Airbus announced the closure of the plant, the government, the CCOO and UGT sent Airbus a proposal making clear their willingness to justify a plant closure and stressing their willingness to sustain the economic and competitive profitability of the company.

The logo of the Airbus Group is pictured in Suresnes, outside Paris, France. (AP Photo/Michel Euler, File)

Immediately afterwards, the company announced the plant closure and reopened talks with the trade unions. For their part, the unions proposed temporarily suspending the calendar of mobilizations, concentrations and non-collaboration with the company. This notably entailed canceling the indefinite strike they had threatened to call on May 24 across Spains Airbus factories.

This agreement, which the unions hailed as giving the highest priority to negotiation and trust in the will of the parties, was signed by four of the five unions at Airbus-Puerto Reals works council: CCOO, UGT, SIPA (Independent Union of Aeronautical Professionals) and ATPSAE (Association of Technicians and Professionals of the Aerospace Sector).

These negotiations are a sham. The unions have no intention of defending jobs or the plant. From what has been leaked to the press, the government and the unions have already agreed to close it.

Some are to be fired through voluntary redundancies, others will be offered relocation to the Airbus plant in Getafe, south of Madrid and 470 kilometers from Puerto Reala transfer that is unaffordable for many families due to its economic and social cost. Only a few employees will be reassigned to the other Airbus plant in the province of Cadiz, which is also threatened with closure by the companys plans to centralize production in Madrid.

The unions are implementing a plan, worked out with the PSOE-Podemos government and Airbus, to suppress social opposition in Puerto Real and Cadiz. Located in the region of Andalusia in southern Spain, this area has 27 percent unemployment and over 50 percent among youth. For years it has witnessed the destruction of jobs and factories due to the trade unions collusion with companies, backed by PSOE regional governments. The latest plant closure means losing, not only the 380 jobs at the plant, but up to 1,520 more in related parts supply and logistics work.

In their closure plans, the government and Airbus are relying on the services of the petty-bourgeois Anticapitalistas tendency. The city of Cadiz is run by Anticapitalistas Mayor Jose Maria Gonzalez. In April, amid rising anger among workers, Anticapitalistas and Gonzalez intervened in protests to tie workers to the unions, widely promoted the false victory, thereby helping the unions strangle the strike.

Anticapitalistas is continuing its pernicious role. Teresa Rodriguez, the regional leader and lawmaker in the Andalusian parliament, who is regularly featured in the bourgeois media, stated, [w]e must defend every industrial job in Andalusia, and we are going to do it together with the workers and trade union organizations. In fact, her ally is Podemos, of which Anticapitalistas was a part until recently.

Cadiz Mayor Gonzalez is whipping up nationalist chauvinism, while continuing to promote the PSOE-Podemos government. He called on the government, which owns 4.1 percent of Airbus shares, to become more involved. He said, [i]f Spain did more in the council, like France or Germany, I am convinced that the workers of Puerto Real would not have to pay the economic damage.

In fact, as the WSWS recently pointed out in Germany, where Airbus is planning new job and wage cuts, the IG Metall unionlike the Anticapitalistasis clinging to its own nation-state. If we want to achieve something with Airbus and France, then the right collar size is the Chancellery, IG Metall board member Jurgen Kerner said last week. This national chauvinist perspective only divides workers along national lines, blocking them from building an international movement to fight the attacks on jobs, wages and living standards.

Although the four main unions in the works council called off strike action, the fifth, the General Labor Confederation (CGT), maintained the strike at the Puerto Real plant called last Friday. This reflected widespread support among workers at the plant for continuing strike action.

The CGT, however, does not represent an alternative. It is playing its usual role of making toothless criticisms of the larger trade unions and making liberal use of radical phraseology and militant actions, to tie workers to a nationalist perspective. It specializes in feeding off mass discontent with the betrayals of the larger unions, only to channel it towards empty national appeals. However, it inevitably isolates the plant where workers are in struggle.

Before the plant closure announcement, the CGTs militant action consisted of setting up a camp outside the factory. It then organised protests during the break, so the protests did not disturb Airbus profits.

Now, they are proposing an indefinite strike isolated simply at the Puerto Real plant currently threatened with closure. They are making no efforts to link up with other workers struggles, even though over 30,000 workers are to be made redundant in the coming months at large companies across Spain. The CGT aims to wear down workers with protests and strikes until they accept the plant closure.

The CGTs ability to maintain any credibility depends largely on the despicable role of pseudo-left forces like the Morenoite Workers Revolutionary Current (CRT). Its piece last Friday, titled Great strike day called by CGT at Airbus Puerto Real despite CCOO-UGT Betrayal states: Only the CGT continues to support the fight to defend the Puerto Real plant, while the other unions together with the PSOE-Podemos government are committed to accepting the closure and the destruction of jobs.

The CRTs support for CGT aims to dupe workers into believing the unions can be revived to serve workers interests. The only problem, they claim, is the bureaucracy and the leadership. Even then, CRT does not hide the fact that it is seeking to cut a deal with the CCOO and UGT bureaucracies. In their words, [w]e must demand that all unions, especially CCOO and UGT, far from seeking crumbs from an agreement with Airbus, should promote a mobilization throughout Andalusia and call for a general strike in the entire province of Cadiz in defense of Airbus.

Workers at Airbus cannot pin their hopes on rotten political forces and organisations that betray them and whip up nationalist tensions with their class brothers and sisters in other countries. They need new organs of struggle, independent grassroots committees based on democratic control and the traditions of internationalist and class struggle. We urge Airbus workers to create their own rank-and-file committees and join the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC) launched by the International Committee of the Fourth International.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 21:25:11|Editor: huaxia

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BANJUL, May 27 (Xinhua) -- The Gambia is one of the countries with a rich history in Sub-Saharan Africa. But lack of proper record handling has led to the loss of some of its historical records.

This prompted Hassoum Ceesay, one of the country's historians, to embark on a historical collection mission to digitalize them for posterity keeping.

He said the loss of history is due to some people's lack of interest in knowing their past, while blaming others for lack of understanding made by disregarding certain developments with historic connotations.

He said he is always ashamed as to how some Gambians react to historical issues wrongly, adding some people are missing the simple dates of recent past events at the ongoing Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission.

"It is all lack of historical knowledge. So, we should train historians to restore our identity as a nation because a country without a historical record is a country without identity and direction. Preserving our history and culture is going to boost our economy and restore our identity. We should encourage the study of our history. Gambian history is still there to be researched and written about," he said.

For his part, he has taken the challenge to head the National Center for Arts and Culture, a department under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture mandated to preserve the national history. He's also serving as a lecturer at the University of The Gambia with a view of making history an important subject for the new generation of students.

"I'm happy that even at the university people are studying history at master's level. It shows that at least increasingly there is a sort of priority in the study of history and the discipline is being given priority. I think it should continue like that," he said, adding there is a new core of historians coming up.

To uncover the missing history, Ceesay disclosed that his department has already recruited new staff to help achieve the goal. However, he emphasizes the need for resources such as in the area of digitization of databases for posterity keeping. He also expressed the need for capacity building in digging the missing records.

"We need a professional archivist. We need a museologist for museum conservation, exhibition design, and museum education so that when school children come to our museums, they can enjoy it."

"Ninety percent of our history is still under the ground," he said. "So, in that area, we need the capacity to have archeologists and we need anthropologists. We need all these if we want to maintain our history and culture for posterity because they give us identity and they are economic," he said.

Ceesay emphasized that it is important for people, even outside the government to support the sector so that they can develop historic sites, give scholarships for people to study history, and develop museums and archives for posterity.

"These are our identity and if we lost them then we have nothing to boast about as a people," he concluded. Enditem
The Manhattan district attorney has convened a special grand jury as part of a long-term investigation into former president Donald Trumps business operations, which are headquartered in New York City. The move, reported in the press on Tuesday night, is said to indicate that criminal charges could be brought against officials of the Trump Organization, including Trump himself, within the six-month life of the grand jury.

The investigation, overseen by District Attorney Cyrus Vance Jr., is coordinated with a state probe run by New York State Attorney General Letitia James, which has focused on potential charges of tax evasion against the former president.

US President Donald Trump (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Both the New York Times and the Washington Post published prominent reports on the convening of the grand jury, which outlined possible charges against Trump. These reportedly could involve both his conduct of the business and financial operations of the Trump Organization and his personal finances, including illegal payoffs during the 2016 election campaign to women who claimed to have had sexual affairs with him. Both newspapers said that the summoning of a grand jury meant that charges were likely to be filed within the next six months.

The Manhattan district attorneys investigation began in the wake of revelations by Trumps former personal attorney and long-time bagman and fixer, Michael Cohen, who served a three-year prison term for his activities and is now a cooperating witness. It was Cohen who reportedly delivered the hush money to the two women, pornographic actress Stormy Daniels and former Playboy magazine centerfold Karen McDougal.

The state investigation, overseen by the attorney general, also began in response to revelations by Cohen, in this case his testimony before Congress in 2019, where he described Trumps manipulation of real estate values, inflating them in applications for bank loans while minimizing them when filing tax returns.

The Post reported, The move indicates that District Attorney Cyrus R. Vance Jr.s investigation of the former president and his business has reached an advanced stage after more than two years. It suggests, too, that Vance thinks he has found evidence of a crimeif not by Trump, by someone potentially close to him or by his company.

Both the presidents son Eric, a top official of the Trump Organization, and the companys longtime top financial officer, Alan Weisselberg, have given sworn testimony to the Vance investigation.

The potential charges include the manipulation of the valuation of various real estate properties in a way that defrauded banks and insurance companies, and if any tax benefits were obtained illegally through unscrupulous asset valuation, the Post said.

The Vance investigation has long been one of the main dangers to the Trump family, whose fortune has been based on New York City real estate, where virtually every deal by every big investor involves a large element of fraudcertainly in relation to tax evasion.

In that sense, the decision to go after Trump is certainly rooted in political calculations, including disqualifying Trump as a potential candidate in 2024, as Democratic Party prosecutors at the local and state level single out Trump for what everybody does in the American ruling elite.

That said, there is no doubt that Trump is a gangster guilty of countless crimes, before and especially during his presidency. His impending prosecution would resemble that of mobster Al Capone, who perpetrated or ordered hundreds of murders, but ultimately went to prison for tax evasion.

Earlier this week, James announced that her office was now initiating a criminal probe based on its investigation of civil infractions by the Trump Organization and coordinating this with the criminal probe run out of Vances office. The two investigations were said to be focusing on the valuation of a 212-acre Trump estate in the New York City suburbs, Seven Springs in Westchester County, where Trump obtained a $21 million tax break.

Trump issued a statement denouncing the now-joint state and local investigation as a continuation of the greatest Witch Hunt in American history driven by highly partisan Democrat prosecutors.

If anything, however, the most evident feature of the twin probes is their slowness. The Democrats hesitated to bring any charges against a sitting president, deferring to the Trump Justice Departments finding that no criminal charges could be brought against a US president while in officeessentially a declaration that the president was above the law.

Even now, with New York state and local prosecutors considering charging Trump with tax and accounting crimes, the Biden administration has gone to court in support of the position taken by the Trump Justice Department in relation to the Mueller investigation, the two-year-long probe of baseless claims that the 2016 Trump presidential campaign was coordinated with the Russian government of President Vladimir Putin.

Trumps attorney general, William Barr, fought a protracted legal battle to keep secret a memo from his own Office of Legal Counsel advising him on how to handle the public release of Muellers findings. Congressional Democrats sued to obtain the memo, suggesting that Barr had disregarded his own offices legal advice when he wrote a cover letter declaring that Mueller had cleared Trump of any wrongdoing, when Muellers findings were more equivocal.

Bidens Justice Department, under Attorney General Merrick Garland, announced Monday it would appeal a judges order to release the internal memo, citing the same groundsthe necessity to protect internal deliberations within the executive branch.

The right-wing Wall Street Journal gloated in an editorial, As the appeals court considers what to do, the Biden and Trump administrations are now on the same page.

District Court Judge Amy Berman Jackson, who has read the internal memo, declared that Barr was being disingenuous in his description of Muellers findings and that the Justice Department had deceived the court about the role of the memo in the decision-making process.

The review of the document reveals that the Attorney General was not then engaged in making a decision about whether the President should be charged with obstruction of justice; the fact that he would not be prosecuted was a given, she wrote.

Trump faces still another legal proceeding, this one involving a civil suit brought by Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell over Trumps speech on January 6, 2021 to the crowd that then marched on the Capitol, stormed the building, and temporarily blocked the certification of his defeat in the Electoral College.

Trumps attorney Jesse Binall argued Tuesday in a pleading filed with the federal district court for the District of Columbia that the speech was protected under the First Amendment and that Trump had absolute immunity while in office as president to contest the election results.
The United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) President Cecil Roberts and ten other officials were arrested on Tuesday during a civil disobedience publicity stunt outside of Warrior Met Coals No. 7 mine in Brookwood, Alabama. The UMWA organized the impotent protest as miners reach the two-month mark in their strike and are increasingly angered over UMWAs conduct of the struggle.

The protest took place just three days after UMWA officials violently attacked left-wing podcasters at the strike fest fundraising event outside of the Local 2397 hall on Saturday. Top UMWA District 20 officials Larry Spencer and James Blankenship physically assaulted two members of the Dixieland of the Proletariat podcast, falsely believing them to be representatives of the World Socialist Web Site. Both Spencer and Blankenship are members of the executive board of the Alabama AFL-CIO.

Sheriffs arrest UMWA leaders (Twitter/@GrimKim)

During the assault, Spencer told the podcasters to get the f**k out of here and flipped over their table. Blankenship threatened to kill one of the podcasters, who is black, shouting: Ill beat your mother f**king brains out, boy!

Roberts stunt at the No. 7 mine was staged for two purposes: First, to distract attention from last Saturday's assault, which has been denounced by miners and other workers, leading to demands that the UMWA immediately get rid of Spencer and Blankenship. Second, it is aimed at refurbishing the reputations of the discredited UMWA bureaucrats as they prepare to ram through the same sell-out contract that was already voted down by the miners.

Nearly 1,100 Warrior Met miners walked out on April 1. On April 9, coal miners rejected a UMWA-backed proposal from the company, which would have restored only $1.50 an hour, by a vote of 1,006 to 45.

The UMWA and the Alabama AFL-CIO have forced the miners to fight Warrior Met alone, even as the company receives backing from its Wall Street investors, pro-company judges who have issued court injunctions limiting pickets, and Alabama state troopers and county sheriffs who have protected the strikebreakers.

Hundreds of miners looking to defy the court injunctions and block the scabs from entering the No. 7 mine marched to the mine Tuesday afternoon. But they were greeted by Roberts and other UMWA officials who ordered them not to take any further action.

Standing on a concrete barricade and shouting on a bullhorn, Roberts told the angry miners, The past few days weve shifted to nonviolent civil disobedience. If we go in there and tear things up, they are going to come in here with the cameras. They are going to shoot somebody. They are going to send somebody to prison for the next 20 years.

Shortly afterwards, in a theatrical performance prearranged with the Alabama State Police and Tuscaloosa Sheriffs Department, Roberts and 10 other officials, including District 20 Vice President Spencer and Local 2397 President Carl White, sat in the road on Warrior Met property and waited until the deputies carefully zip-tied their wrists and gently guided them into awaiting police busses.

The pacifism the UMWA bureaucracy employs towards Warrior Met and the police stands in sharp contrast to the violence against the two podcasters Spencer and his gang thought were affiliated with the WSWS. The UMWA has a long record of targeting the WSWS and its predecessor in the United States, the Bulletin newspaper. Such threats, however, have always been aimed at intimidating and silencing the miners themselves and suppressing their long history of militant struggle.

This is underscored by Roberts comments before the staged arrests. Nearly 40 years ago, in 1982, Richard Trumka (now president of the AFL-CIO) and Roberts took over the UMWA. In the name of bringing stability to the coalfields and making US-based coal operators more competitive, i.e., profitable, they sought to destroy the miners long traditions of class solidarity and militant defiance of the coal bosses and the government. This included the selective strike policy, which overturned the miners long-standing principle of striking all the minesunion and nonunionuntil every operator signed a national contract.

Trumka and Roberts oversaw the betrayal of the 1985-86 AT Massey and the 1989-90 Pittston strikes. During this time, small, isolated groups of striking miners faced brutal violence from the coal operators, private security thugs and the government. Miners were framed up and imprisoned for decades. Others, including AT Massey miner John McCoy, were murdered on the picket lines. In the face of these attacks, Trumka and Roberts did nothing to oppose the corporate and state violence against the miners. On the contrary, they welcomed it to crush the resistance of the most militant section of the American working class.

Thirty years ago, Roberts ordered the Pittston miners to carry out civil disobedience stunts like sitting in the middle of mine entry roads until state troopers hauled them into jail. This was a deliberate attempt by the UMWA bureaucrats to undermine the class consciousness and militancy of miners and instill the debilitating methods of middle-class protest and futile appeals to the conscience of the ruling class.

The defeat of the AT Massey and Pittston strikes led to the virtual disappearance of industry-wide contracts, the hollowing out of the UMWA in former strongholds like eastern Kentucky and southern West Virginia, and a wave of bankruptcies used by companies to gut the jobs, wages, working conditions and pensions of tens of thousands of miners.

After overseeing the loss of three-quarters of the members of the UMWA, Trumka was awarded the top position in the AFL-CIO and Roberts the president-for-life position in the UMWA.

Since the rebellion by the Warrior Met coal miners and their overwhelming rejection of Roberts sellout deal, the UMWA has followed a well-worn path. It has isolated the miners, put them on starvation-level strike benefits, sought to demoralize them with impotent protest stunts, and carried out thuggish threats against the WSWS aimed at intimidating miners and silencing their opposition. All the while, it is no doubt keeping back channels open with Warrior Met over when it is best to try to ram through another pro-company deal.

For hobnobbing with corporate bosses and politicians in Washington D.C., Roberts is paid an annual salary of $210,000. That is $4,038 a week, compared to the $325 a week in strike benefits for the miners who are forced to go to food pantries to survive.

The Warrior Met Coal strike is at a crucial turning point. Everything depends on the independent initiative of rank-and-file workers themselves.

It is time for the most militant and class-conscious miners to form their own rank-and-file committee to outline the miners demands, including the restoration of all pay cuts, fully paid health and pension benefits, and the elimination of the punitive attendance system.

This committee, democratically controlled by workers themselves, must repudiate the UMWAs program of class collaboration and revive the powerful class-struggle traditions of the miners and the whole working class. The miners cannot win this strike unless the UMWA's deliberate isolation of the strike is ended. Their struggle must be supported by spreading the walkout throughout the coalfields and to steelworkers, Volvo and other autoworkers, educators, Amazon workers and other sections of workers throughout the United States and internationally.
South Korean President Moon Jae-in traveled to Washington last week for a summit with US President Joe Biden. The meeting on Friday was Moons first trip abroad since the COVID-19 pandemic began, as well as Bidens second in-person summit with a foreign leader, following Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Sugas visit in April. Bidens emphasis on US alliances with Japan and South Korea at the beginning of his term is indicative of Washingtons growing war preparations aimed at China.

Couched in the empty terms of adherence to democratic norms, human rights, and the rule of law at home and abroad, the summits purpose was to shore up the military alliance between Washington and Seoul. Under former President Donald Trump, Washington sharply ratcheted up tensions with Beijing over Taiwan by increasingly calling into question the One China policy, which the Biden administration has only intensified.

Moon Jae-in (Flickr.com/Janne Wittoeck)

The One China policy states that Taiwan is a part of China, a fact which Washington recognizes as it has had no formal diplomatic relations with Taipei since 1979. Beijing has stated that any attempt by Taiwan to declare independence will lead to war, particularly as it fears the island will be turned into a launch pad for US attacks against the Chinese mainland.

Moon and Bidens joint statement released following the summit makes clear that Seoul has signed onto these war plans behind the backs of the South Korean people. Seoul attempted to claim afterwards that, as the statement did not directly reference China, there should be no reason for Beijing to be upset and dismissed the latters concerns. In fact, the joint statement included a veritable checklist of anti-China phrases.

The two leaders, the statement read, pledge to maintain peace and stability, lawful unimpeded commerce, and respect for international law, including freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea and beyond. President Biden and President Moon emphasize the importance of preserving peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

Phrases like freedom of navigation and rule of law are used to demonize Beijing while simultaneously justifying US belligerence in the East and South China Seas.

The reference to Taiwan is the first time that a joint statement between Washington and Seoul has mentioned the island. Biden and Suga included a similar reference to Taiwan last month for the first time since 1969. Neither Washington nor Seoul or Tokyo have any concern for peace and stability over Taiwan. The naming of the island in the statement calls into question the One China policy, which all three countries formally recognize. Seoul ended diplomatic relations with Taipei and recognized Beijing as the legitimate government of all China including Taiwan in 1992.

The summit took place a few days after another US naval provocation. On May 18, the US Navy sent a guided-missile destroyer, the USS Curtis Wilber, through the Taiwan Strait, stating that the maneuver demonstrates the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. It was the fifth transit through the strait since Biden took office in January. The inclusion of Taiwan therefore is a strong signal of Seouls support for Washingtons confrontational stance against Beijing.

Chinas Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian warned Monday, China brooks no foreign interference on the Taiwan issue. Chinas ambassador to South Korea, Xing Haiming, commented the same day on the joint statement, There was no mention of China, but its not that [Beijing] is unaware it is targeting China. He reiterated that the Taiwan issue an internal affair.

Indicative of the current war danger, Washington and Seoul also used the summit to announce the end of any restrictions on the range of South Koreas ballistic missiles. The restrictions had banned missiles that exceed 800 kilometers and stem from 1979 when Washington sought to halt Seouls nascent nuclear weapon program. The changes will allow Seoul to acquire weaponry that could strike deep into China.

A former Defense Ministry official told Yonhap News Agency: Longer ranges mean that we can launch missiles from safer locations in the rear, which will give us greater strategic flexibility and enable us to better prepare for threats from North Korea and others,undoubtedly a reference to China.

Expressing Chinas concern about long range South Korean missiles, Ambassador Xing warned, China would not sit still should its national interests be harmed. In response, South Koreas First Vice Foreign Minister Choi Jong-geon brushed aside the comments, declaring on Monday, If [Beijing] was uncomfortable, it should have already been uncomfortable about the missile development long before.

In fact, Beijing has made it quite clear for years, particularly in response to the deployment of a US Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile battery in South Korea that it was deeply concerned about the development of missile and radar capabilities close to its borders. While the US operates the THAAD battery, its deployment caused a serious rift between Beijing and Seoul and economic retaliation by China.

In a similar vein, Moon also expressed support for the US-South Korea-Japan trilateral alliance, ostensibly aimed at North Korea. The alliance is considered a crucial aspect of US war plans including to station radar and ballistic missile systems, such as THAAD, throughout the region, including placing missiles in Taiwan, Okinawa, and the Philippines. The US considers the missile and radar systems in South Korea and Japan as a key element of its nuclear strategy in blocking Chinese counter-attacks.

To facilitate these operations, Washington has long-pushed for closer military cooperation between Seoul and Tokyo. This includes the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), which Seoul and Tokyo signed in November 2016.

Moons ruling Democratic Party, which praised the results of the Biden summit as a success, postured as opponents of GSOMIA in 2016 as the opposition party, though they attacked it from a right-wing nationalist perspective, calling it unpatriotic.

The results of the summit demonstrate not a commitment from Seoul and Washington for peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific, but the opposite: a drive towards a conflict that could have devastating global consequences.
A woman was charged with felony battery in San Diego after attacking a Southwest Airlines flight attendant, who lost two teeth and suffered other injuries to her face. The incident happened Sunday morning during a flight from Sacramento to San Diego.

According to Southwest spokesman Chris Mainz, passenger Vyvianna Quinonez repeatedly ignored standard inflight instructions and became verbally and physically abusive upon landing. San Diego Harbor Police said Tuesday that they arrested and charged Quinonez with battery causing serious bodily injury.

Southwest Airlines flight attendant after the attack (Twitter/ @MikuniTaro)

Paramedics took the flight attendant, who was not identified, to a hospital for treatment, and she was later released. Southwest Airlines reported it flew a friend to San Diego to be with the injured flight attendant.

Lyn Montgomery, President of Local 556 of the Transport Workers Union, told ABC News she wrote about the weekend attack in a letter to Southwest CEO Gary Kelly. Montgomery asked Kelly to lobby federal officials for more federal air marshals on flights and to ban passengers who violate rules, instead of putting them on another flight.

Unfortunately, this is just one of many occurrences, Montgomery said of Sundays incident. She said there were 477 incidents of misconduct by passengers on Southwest planes just between April 8 and May 15.

On Monday, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported 2,500 incidents of unruly passengers this year, including 1,900 cases in which passengers refused to wear face masks. The FAA announced it was seeking $54,500 in civil penalties against five passengers for behavior ranging from refusing to wear a mask to assaulting flight attendants.

Ive been in the industry since 1992, and this is the worst ever, Montgomery said in an interview. People seem to be more angry. When theyre asked to do something, compliance seems to be more difficult.

Flight attendants are normally trained in de-escalation tactics to deal with threatening travelers, but Montgomery said some passengers have become bolder in challenging the authority of crew members. Montgomery also expressed concern about Southwests plan to resume selling alcoholic beverages on planes because many incidents recorded by the FAA involved passengers who were drinking.

Workers at Starbucks have also reported increasingly aggressive and confrontational customers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Workers must also deal with understaffing at stores, intense workloads and mistreatment by corporate management.

Starbucks workers across the US complain of being verbally abused or physically assaulted by customers over coronavirus safety protocols. Customers have become violent after being asked to wear a mask or properly practice social distancing.

Ive been chastised for asking people to wear their masks correctly or asking people to put their masks back on because people like to take their masks up specifically to talk to us and the plastic barriers we have up, people will bang on them like theyre glass, a Maryland barista told the Guardian.

The barista said they believed Starbucks has prioritized customer service over safety and respect for workers during the pandemic. Many Starbucks workers report that their pay is too low for the increasingly overwhelming amount of work the corporation demands from them.

Im not compensated enough for the amount of work that I do, because Im still struggling to pay my bills, pay my rent, and buy groceries. Ive been living paycheck to paycheck and its really hard to save money. I give so much of my time and energy to this job and the compensation doesnt measure up to the amount of work that we have to do, a Starbucks shift supervisor who spoke to the Guardian explained.

The company regularly conducts customer satisfaction surveys where workers can be written up if they do not satisfy a score or meet drive-thru time quotas.

Starbucks definitely took this turn to becoming just another fast-food drive-thru, the Starbucks shift supervisor added. They want us to just be these robots that move fast, were just little drones to them that just need to pump out as many lattes as we can in a half-hour.

A barista in Massachusetts told the Guardian they are still concerned about COVID-19 because their infant daughter is not vaccinated. Starbucks is one of several retail chains following the recent shift in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines that permit vaccinated individuals to not wear masks in stores. However, workers have no way of differentiating between customers who are vaccinated and those who are not.

Working during this pandemic has been a terrifying experience. Its been almost unbearable and a few times, Ive almost wanted to quit because it gets to the point we dont get paid enough to deal with verbal abuse from customers on a daily basis, the barista said.

Meanwhile, in Tennessee, a woman was arrested Monday after driving her car through an outdoor vaccination site at a high speed. Court documents said police arrested Virginia C. Brown, 36, after she drove through a vaccination center set up at the Foothills Mall in Maryville, Tennessee south of Knoxville.

Officers assigned to assist at the site saw Brown in a blue Chrysler SUV traveling at a high rate of speed through an enclosed tent where several health department and National Guard personnel were working. Police said Brown exited the tent and continued to drive recklessly through the cone course on the site.

Brown was later arrested and charged with seven counts of felony reckless endangerment. Deputies said Brown made several statements about wanting to protest the vaccine while in the back of their police vehicle.

Workers in the tent said Brown was shouting no vaccine as she sped by them. She narrowly missed hitting seven workers inside the tent. Workers later said they thought the driver was going to kill them.
The number of UK billionaires increased by 24 to 171 last year, according to the Sunday Times Rich List. This is the biggest jump since 1989, when the Sunday Times began cataloguing the fortunes of the UKs super-rich.

The Rich List comprises the 1,000 wealthiest people or families resident in the United Kingdom ranked by their net wealth. The list is not limited to British citizens and includes individuals and families born overseas but who predominantly work and/or reside in the UK.

Leonard Blavatnik, 2018 (credit Wikimedia Commons-Mark Neyman/Government Press Office-Israel)

Overall, the richest 250 people on the Rich List increased their wealth by 16.3 percent, up to 658.1 billion.. The 171 billionaires increased their combined wealth by 106.5 billion (21.7 percent) to 597.3 billion.

These are doubtless underestimates. The Rich List estimate subjects wealth from a range of public information, based on values in January each year: We measure identifiable wealth, whether land, property, racehorses, art or significant shares in publicly quoted companies. We exclude bank accountsto which we have no access In January, using last years Rich List, the Resolution Foundation pointed to the massive sums of wealth hidden away by super-rich, estimating that the share of the national wealth claimed by the UKs top 1 percent was not 18 percent as previously claimed but closer to 25 percent.

The grotesque fortunes catalogued by the Rich List have swelled as the lives and living standards of vast swathes of workers have been destroyed by the pandemic and its economic fallout.

More than 150,000 people have been killed by Covid-19, nearly half a million hospitalised, and countless thousands more left with serious long-term health consequences.

Millions have been thrown out of work or seen their wages and conditions slashed.

In April 2021, there were 2.6 million people claiming Jobseekers Allowance, compared to 1.4 million in March 2020. By November 2020, 700,000 people were newly driven into poverty, including 120,000 children. The number of households in destitutionmeaning they are unable to afford basics like food, shelter, heating and clothingmore than doubled to 421,000.

Three million more people have started claiming Universal Credit welfare payments. One in six new claimants has reported skipping meals and 30 percent said they could not afford to eat fresh fruit and vegetables daily. More than 60 percent said they would be unable to replace or repair electrical goods if they broke or put aside enough cash to save 10 a month, and over a quarter had fallen behind on housing payments.

Close to 700,000 people have been threatened with no-fault evictions, and at least 70,000 actually thrown out of their homes, despite a nominal government ban on evictions.

Large numbers of those still in work suffered massive falls in their income. According to an Office for National Statistics survey last October, 40 percent of those furloughed in the private sector did not have the 80 percent of wages paid by the government topped up by their employer. Low-paid workers were the most likely to receive no additional support from their employers, meaning that at the end of last year 2 million people were earning less than the pitifully low minimum wage of 8.72 an hour, quadruple the figure a year earlier. Even before the pandemic, in-work poverty was at a record high of 17.4 percent.

This collapse in the living standards of the working class was justified and enforced by the trade unions and the Labour Party as being in the national interest of shared sacrifice in response to the pandemic. As the Rich List proves, the only sacrifice has been on the side of the workers, in the interest of a super-rich fraction of society.

Direct comparisons between the fates of the two classes are stomach-turning. The more than 100 billion gained by the billionaires in 2020-2021 dwarfs the 63 billion in emergency government funding given to health and social care services to cope with the Covid-19 crisis. The windfall enjoyed by just 171 people is equivalent to the total cost of the furlough and Self-Employment Income Support Scheme.

Sir Leonard Blavatnik, the richest man on the list, with a fortune of 23 billion, saw his wealth grow by 7.2 billion last year. This alone could more than fund the governments temporary 20-a-week increase to Universal Credit. Conservative ministers have signaled their intention to scrap this measure in September, plunging an estimated nearly one million people, including nearly half a million children, into poverty.

The devastation suffered by the working class and the ever-expanding fortunes of the oligarchy are part of the same process. Boris Johnsons Conservative government and its de facto coalition partnerthe Labour Partyresponded to the pandemic by bailing out the corporations to the tune of more than 1 trillion through business loans and quantitative easing. They worked with the trade unions to enact a murderous herd immunity strategy to keep workers at their jobs producing the profits necessary to make good these vast debts.

This has opened the floodgates to an all-out assault by the employers on workers conditions, used to drive the fortunes of the super-rich even higher. Brutal fire and rehire tactics are now ubiquitous. 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). Workers at British Airways, British Gas, Go North West, SPS Technologies and SAICA have already suffered thousands of job losses and thousands of pounds-worth of pay cuts under threat of this tacticfacilitated by the Unite and GMB unions. Workers at Jacobs Douwe Egberts, Argos and Weetabix are fighting the same danger. In the public sector, teachers are threatened with an unprecedented extension of the working day and nurses with an effective pay cut.

The pandemic has both exposed and deepened the extreme social polarisation in the UK. In December last year, the Resolution Foundation calculated from 2016-18 data that if the median household saved every penny of disposable income, it would take them more than 400 years to reach the current level of wealth of the richest 1 percent. An obscenely rich oligarchy and the broad mass of working people confront each other as two irreconcilably opposed classes, each of whose continued existence depends on waging war against the other.

The Go North West bus workers picket line at the Queens Road depot in Manchester on the first day of their strike. February 28, 2021 (credit: WSWS media)

The way the latest Rich List highlights this reality has prompted the usual insincere and impotent soul-searching in ruling circles. Robert Watts, who compiled the list, remarked in a gallingly callous understatement: The fact that many of the super-rich grew so much wealthier at a time when thousands of us buried loved ones and millions of us worried for our livelihoods makes this a very unsettling boom. His comments echo concerns in factions of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and International Monetary Fund that rising social inequality in the context of the pandemic threatens widespread social unrestleading to recent less-than-half-hearted appeals for higher taxes.

A year of mass death and vicious exploitation shows such whistling in the wind for what it is. The way forward for the working class is not to place forlorn hopes in liberal pipe dreams and window dressing. It is to counter the class war launched by the government, the employers and the unions with their own international offensive, based on a socialist programme for the expropriation of the oligarchy to meet desperate social needs. The International Committee of the Fourth International has established the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC) as the necessary framework to carry forward that struggle.
India has become the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic with the highest daily cases of any country in the world. The virus is raging uncontrolled throughout the country, with terrible consequences for millions of people, pushing the total number of officially recorded cases to more than 26 million and the death toll to over 300,000.

As globally, the pandemic has highly intensified political, economic and social crisis of bourgeois rule in India, revealing cynical indifference of the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and ruling elite about saving human lives from the raging virus. These developments clearly underscore the necessity of independent political intervention of the working class on socialist internationalism.

The Socialist Equality Party (SEP) in Sri Lanka is holding an online public meeting elaborating the socialist strategy of the working class to fight the pandemic at 6 PM on Sunday, May 30 (Indian Standard Time). We urge all our readers in South Asia and also internationally to attend this meeting. Attendees should register in advance using the Register button on this page.
Since George Floyd's murder, there have been two distinct conversations about public safety in America. One has focused on how policing disproportionately harms communities of color, particularly Black men. The other has focused on gun violence, which also disproportionately harms Black men.

Commentators have increasingly speculated about whether these two conversations will collide, with public safety concerns pushing criminal justice and policing reform to the side. The implicit assumption is the two are intrinsically in tension: either we can reduce gun violence, or we can reform the justice system. But, in fact, the data tell us this "zero sum" view is wrong.

Gun violence is surging. In 2020, after months of pandemic lockdown, economic instability, young people out of school and a 'hidden epidemic' of pandemic-related trauma, America's largest cities suffered an estimated 30% increase in homicides. These numbers don't appear to be slowing down. In fact, as we enter what may be shaping up as one of the deadliest summers on record, gun sales are reaching record highs.

In years past, spikes in violence prompted calls for punitive measures like mandatory minimums in sentencing. Partly this was due to skepticism that anything besides "tough on crime" works. In the 1960s, the War on Poverty was followed by a doubling of the homicide rate; in the 1970s, social scientists concluded rehabilitation and prevention programs didn't work.

But we've learned a lot since then about the nature of gun violence in America. And what we've learned shows us that it's possible (or more than that -- deeply necessary) to reduce the harms from gun violence and from the criminal justice system itself at the same time. As cities across the country confront calls to both defund the police and reduce gun violence, that insight is critical.

First, we need to leverage what we've learned about the promise of community violence intervention (CVI) programs, especially those that help address the untreated trauma rampant in the underserved urban neighborhoods experiencing the highest rates of gun violence.

Consider, for example, the READI program, started after a 2016 spike in gun violence in Chicago and run by the nonprofit Heartland Alliance here. READI (stands for Rapid Employment and Development Initiative) works with the most vulnerable men in Chicago -- -- 70% of participants have been shot before and 90% have been arrested -- and over two years of intensive programming, connects them with jobs or job training and trauma-informed supports.

Preliminary findings on READI that my research center (the University of Chicago Crime Lab) helped generate are promising: Participants who went through the the program were 40% less likely to be the victims of gun homicides or shootings. We have the chance to expand READI and programs like it across the country right now. President Joe Biden has called on Congress to invest $5 billion in them, and local city and state officials can add to that investment through the American Rescue Plan funding they've already received.

Second, we need to address the pipeline of legal and illegal guns that fuels the violence. In 2020, gun sales in the United States rose by some 65% over 2019, according to Small Arms Analytics, a consulting firm based in Greenville, South Carolina.

A striking number of those guns that end up at crime scenes come from the same small number of gun dealers.

For example, in Chicago, just two gun stores were the source of more than one of every 10 guns recovered or confiscated by law enforcement in 2017. The federal agency responsible for ensuring these gun dealers follow the law, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), has for years been vastly (and intentionally) under-resourced. The ATF employs 811 field investigators to carry out compliance inspections of more than 53,000 federally licensed firearms dealers.

No wonder that, at most, only 11% of all firearms dealers were inspected in 2020. Congress could address this staffing shortage by providing ATF the resources they need to adequately inspect dealers and enforce the law. In the meantime, there are executive actions the Biden administration can take to crack down on illegal gun trafficking, including requiring gun stores to video-record sales, increasing the number of gun sellers that must conduct background checks, and releasing more data on the underground gun market

Finally, we must work to make policing more transparent and accountable -- not just because it's the right thing to do, but because that's when policing is most effective. Researchers have found that publicized cases of police violence thwart the suppression of law breaking by driving down 911 calls, ultimately making cities as a whole, and Black residents in particular, less safe.

And while some people come to the conclusion that nothing can be done to change policing in America, we have some encouraging indications that "consent decrees" could be a useful tool to make policing more effective and more just. For example around 20 years ago, the Los Angeles Police Department entered into a consent decree with the US Department of Justice under which the department promised to adopt reform measures under a court's supervision.

By the time the consent decree ended in 2009, Los Angeles had experienced a 55% decline in violent crime and a consistent drop in the use of serious force by law enforcement. By 2019, shootings by Los Angeles police officers reached a 30-year low.

Given the disproportionate rate at which Black men are killed by police in the US, calls to defund the police are not surprising. But fixing or reimagining policing to reduce the harms from enforcement will save more lives than entirely abolishing the police -- which the data historically suggest could cause overall rates of violent crime to go up, with an outsized share of additional victims likely to be Black and Brown.

Because our leaders have for so long viewed solving the overlapping crises of gun violence and harms created by the criminal justice system as being in tension -- a zero-sum tradeoff -- we've been stuck in unhelpful debates about choosing one crisis over the other. We must and can find solutions that advance justice and reduce gun violence simultaneously -- otherwise we'll be having the same conversations next year, and the year after.
VIGO COUNTY, Ind. (WTHI) - The Vigo County Health Commissioner is urging people to consider getting vaccinated against COVID-19.

Doctor Darren Brucken says the new data is clear. He says 99 percent of cases in Indiana from mid-January until now were unvaccinated people.

Brucken says this is the trend locally as well.

He told us getting vaccinated is a personal choice, but Brucken says the pros outweigh the cons.

"The pros of this vaccine just continue to grossly outweigh any potential side effect. My arm hurts, distrust of the government. Whatever you want to call it," Brucken said.

He pointed out there are still plenty of vaccines available.
ILLINOIS, (WTHI) - With many pandemic restrictions lifting, people are ready to get out and travel. The State of Illinois wants you to visit the many unique places it has to offer!

Illinois has a new campaign called: "Time for me to Drive"

The campaign showcases more than 60-road trip itineraries. A new TV ad started running this past weekend highlighting what the state has to offer visitors.

Governor JB Pritzker, tourism partners, and state leaders launched this initiative last week. Its goal is to boost tourism business around the state.

It zeros in on only-in-Illinois experiences and attractions.

Pritzker says, "After an incredibly difficult year in which the pandemic kept us all close to home and staying apart, lifesaving vaccines have made it possible to celebrate together this weekend and through the summer."

He and state leaders encourage people to hit the road and explore Illinois.

"Knowing that and knowing how much Illinois has to offer with our route 66 and our great river road, we thought it was a great opportunity to introduce Illinois to Illinoisans and also showcase everything we have to offer to bordering states," says Karla Flannery the director of tourism in Illinois.
VIGO COUNTY, IND. (WTHI) -- As COVID-19 cases continue to fall, more states are reopening. Indiana is fully reopened, and Illinois plans to reopen by June 11. This includes all sectors of the economy. One area of the economy that is seeing a huge rebound in activity is fitness and gym memberships, especially locally.

The Wellness Box Inc. in Terre Haute is just one of the many fitness studios seeing an increase in foot traffic. The owners, LT and Bonnie Thompson, combine nutrition, wellness and fitness, to help people become the healthiest versions of themselves. Just recently, they've seen a significant increase in people interested in their health assessments and fitness classes. Thompson says he's seen at least a 25-35% increase on a weekly basis.

"The increase has been very dramatic in a way," LT Thompson said. "It's been what we have hoped for with the new mandate that's been lifted."

This is a trend other gyms in Vigo County are seeing as well. During the pandemic, many fitness studios shifted their structure to online classes. This allowed many places to continue their operations, but this did not have the same impact as in-person classes.

"This is a very personable business," Thompson said. "A lot of the things we do here is one on one. So, not having the one on one, in-person relationship or small group setting was the biggest challenge."

Now things are returning to normal and more people are leaving their homes and joining gyms in the area. The owners at Wellness Box Inc. say they are excited to help more people thrive on their health and fitness journeys.

"One way we can all fight to be better in the future is to be healthy," Thompson said.

As more gyms begin to open and expand capacity limits, this may increase foot traffic even more dramatically. Currently, fitness centers in Indiana can be at full capacity, while in Illinois, they remain at 60% capacity until mid-June.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-26 20:03:16|Editor: huaxia

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CANBERRA, May 26 (Xinhua) -- Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has defended the country's hotel quarantine system after a COVID-19 outbreak in Melbourne.

Morrison told Parliament on Wednesday that hotel quarantine for international arrivals to Australia has been 99.99 percent effective in preventing COVID-19 outbreaks.

The number of cases linked to a new outbreak in Melbourne's north grew to 15 on Wednesday.

The opposition Labor Party criticized the government's failure to establish a national "purpose-built" quarantine facility.

"The Commonwealth and the states have worked together to put in place a system of quarantine, administering state public health orders, that has had a 99.99 percent effectiveness rate," Morrison told Parliament in response.

As COVID-19 reemerged in the community in Melbourne, there had been about 3.8 million COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in Australia.

"At our current pace of roughly 516,000 doses a week, we can expect to reach the 40 million doses needed to fully vaccinate Australia's adult population in late September 2022," said the Australian Broadcasting Corporation's report on Wednesday.

As of Wednesday afternoon, there had been 30,048 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Australia, and the numbers of locally and overseas acquired cases in the last 24 hours were nine and four respectively, with one under investigation, according to the latest figures from the Department of Health. Enditem
TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) -- Firefighters are tasked with quick action and safety during emergencies. It's a skill they're always working to sharpen. Today, Terre Haute firefighters got hands-on experience with new equipment.

Driving around today you may have noticed fire trucks near Hulman Center in downtown Terre Haute.

Firefighters were at the nearby parking garage training for multi-level building response.

Fire station three is upgrading its standpipe equipment. This will help firefighters quickly put out flames in high-rise buildings.

A standpipe is a long pipe that carries water through multiple levels of a building.

This is what captain steve Yelich said most standpipes are found in hotels, high-rise apartments, and other large buildings.

The training included how to pack up the new hose and how to run the new nozzle.

The new equipment will pump out an extra gallon of water. Yelich said this will help put fires out more quickly.

He said, "Stand pipework is a rarity. It's a very high-risk low frequent event, and we're just trying to prepare our department."

Yelich said this training will help the fire department better serve the community.

He said it's especially important to be prepared with so much new development in Terre Haute.
SULLIVAN COUNTY, Ind. (WTHI) - A Sullivan man will face charges after police accused him of sex crimes against a child.

Indiana State Police arrested 39-year-old Anterio Martin.

The investigation into Martin started back in April when police received information about allegations of sexual misconduct with a minor.

According to police, the victim of the sexual misconduct was under 16-years-old.

Police arrested Martin on Wednesday. He was charged with child solicitation and sexual battery.

He is currently in the Sullivan County Jail.
TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Motorcycles across the Wabash Valley are supporting a local organization.

Cannonball Harley-Davidson in Terre Haute is helping the Bethany House for the rest of the year.

On Wednesday, the business kicked off giving back with a check presentation.

Harley-Davidson gave $4,500 to the Bethany House. Catholic Charities told us the shelter is a great place to go for help.

"To see some of those individuals who have made it through Bethany House and gotten on their feet again. The joy that brings and the change in their life, it's very fulfilling," Jennifer Buell, from Catholic Charities, said.

The Bethany House is an emergency shelter. The help from Cannonball Harley-Davidson doesn't end with the $4,500 check, though. A portion of all motorcycle sales will go to the Bethany House until the end of the year.
WABASH VALLEY, Ill. (WTHI) - A new scam in Illinois could end with your identity stolen.

The Secretary of State's office is warning residents of texts and emails that look like they are from the state.

The messages may look official, sometimes including the secretary's logo. The scammers work to trick you into giving out your personal information - including your social security number.

To avoid the scam, do not click on any links or give any information if asked. The Secretary of State's office will never ask for sensitive information through email or text.
SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP)  A sheriff's spokesman says there are multiple fatalities and injuries in a shooting at a San Jose, California, railyard and that the suspect is dead.

Santa Clara County sheriffs spokesman Deputy Russell Davis said Wednesday that he could not specify the number of fatalities and injuries.

He says the victims include Valley Transportation Authority employees.

The shooting took place at a light rail facility that is next door to the sheriffs department and across a freeway from the airport.

A spokesperson for the Valley Transportation Authority did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
TUPELO, Miss. (WTVA) - The Salvation Army in Tupelo will soon say good bye to Majors Ray and Whitney Morton after they received Farewell Orders.

We like to think our family has grown through our time here in Tupelo, Major Ray Morton said.

He and his wife, Major Whitney Morton, are preparing for their ninth move after nearly 20 years in the Salvation Army and two years in Tupelo.

Tupelo really has been an amazing place...amazing people to meet. Weve made friendships here that will travel with us. Ray said.

Majors Morton will soon be on their way to Lexington, NC. That is where Whitney is from and where her start in the Salvation Army began. Meanwhile, Ray is a fifth generation officer.

The Salvation Army just felt like a natural fit," Ray said. "And I wanted to throw my gifts, my abilities, my everything into it.

We met when we were in college, and our second date, I like to say, was to the Salvation Army," Whitney said. "That is where I met an officer who hugged me when I walked through the door and she told me that she loved me and she didnt even know my name yet.

After orders to be in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Louisiana, the pair ended up in North Mississippi. It was a busy time as members of the Advisory Board worked on fundraising for the construction of the new Jim Ingram Red Shield Lodge and later on renovations on the Service Center.

It was handled wonderfully," Dan Franklin, a member of the Advisory Board of the Salvation Army said. "I mean, I was very impressed with the way everything was organized. We took care of all the people with no interruption of service.

Its just amazing to go to a community and theyre already ready," Ray said. "And actually, and asking us, How can we help?

However, Majors Morton spent half their time in Tupelo working under the conditions of a pandemic.

That has been the most bizarre experience just like everybody, Whitney said.

The pair faced the challenges of navigating personal services like lodging or feeding.

It became an exercise in trying to creatively find a way to continue to meet those needs in the community, Ray said.

They got here just in time for everything to change, and theyve handled it well, Lee Caldwell, another member of the Advisory Board, said.

Despite the change, volunteers were still willing to provide help. Majors Morton said that is how Tupelo's community stands out.

I think the biggest thing that we noticed was immediately we just had a real sense of community here and Ive never had an experience of community like what weve had here in Tupelo, Whitney said.

Tupelo is a different place. Its a uniting place. Its an inclusive place," Caldwell said. The community has stepped up during this Covid crisis and allowed us to keep functioning.

From Empty Bowls, a Thanksgiving supper, Angel Tree and all of the other services that the Salvation Army in Tupelo has to offer, Majors Morton experienced it all.

To recognize that all of that isnt that the Salvation Army decided, Hey, we need to do more. But instead, that the community said, Wed like you to do more and we want to help you do more, Ray said.

I mean they work together as a team and it just blends perfectly, Franklin said.

The Salvation Army in Tupelo will be welcoming Captains Rob and Heather Dolby this summer.
TUPELO, Miss (WTVA)- The search for a missing Prentiss county man ended this morning thanks to the watchful eye of a law enforcement officer. The Verona Police Chief found William Jumper this morning right before lunch.

Tupelo police reported Jumper missing around 10 p.m. last night. He was involved in a car accident around 2:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Tupelo area.

Carole Turner said she and her husband were headed to Tupelo when she noticed a pickup truck headed straight for them.

"And all of a sudden about 60 ft in front of me, there was a pick up truck headed straight for me," Turner said.

Turner said Jumper was in the west-bound lane heading east in the area of 22 and Veterans. She said she attempted to move over and avoid the accident but her passenger mirror was broken and her window was scratched when the vehicles collided.

Tupelo police investigated the accident and Jumper was allowed to leave in his truck. The accident happened about 7 hours before WTVA 9 News was notified William Jumper was missing.

Marsenio Nunn, the Verona Police Chief saw Jumper driving north on highway 45 near the Barnes Crossing area this morning. Nunn followed Jumper and managed to get him stopped near the Pratts area in northern lee county.

"I asked him where he'd been, he said, 'Taking care of business.' I said, 'You got every law enforcement agency in the state of Mississippi looking for you.' He said, 'For what?' I said, 'You've been missing.' He said, 'Nah, I was just taking care of business,'" Nunn said.

Jumper is now safe and with his family. Tupelo Police Captain Chuck McDougald confirmed that Jumper was in a vehicle accident on 1-22 and Veterans yesterday afternoon. However, he's concerned as to why Jumper was allowed to leave the scene of the wreck despite him being reported missing later that day....

Captain McDougald said they are now in the process of completing a review of the incident to they can better understand what happened...And how to better serve our citizens in the future.
(WTVA) - The Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers Project in partnership with the Magnolia Bar Association is hosting a free virtual workshop on June 1, 2021 to help people get their criminal records expunged legally so that they can get back to work.

The workshop will be tailored to those with misdemeanor and felony expungement matters and will discuss matters including expungement laws in Mississippi, proper protocol when pulled over by police, and voting rights for ex-offenders.

Those that aren't sure about their eligibility will also be able to find out if they can get their records expunged or not. If eligible, participants will be contacted to receive legal court documents prepared by licensed Mississippi attorneys and/or legal advice on their matter.

The workshop will begin at 12:00 p.m. (noon) and those interested in joining the workshop can do so by calling in at 1-(312)-626-6799 and using the access code 601 960 9577. Participants can also click here to join virtually.
Washington (WTVA) - An Ohio man was arrested yesterday in Alabama in connection with the U.S. Capitol breach on January 6, 2021.

38-year-old Kenneth Thomas, of East Liverpool, Ohio, is charged with federal offenses including assaulting and resisting officers, obstruction of law enforcement during civil disorder, and engaging in physical violence on Capitol grounds.

Court documents state that Thomas was spotted on the Upper West Terrace that afternoon pushing against riot shields and striking officers. When authorities begain to dispel the crowds, Thomas turned towards the rioters and ordered them to, "hold the line." These instances were all captured on Metropolitan Police Department body cameras.

Officers confirmed in interviews that Thomas was one of the first to start pushing back against those trying to dispel the riots.

The FBI's Washington Field Office identified Thomas as #214 in a set of seeking information photos and is investigating his case along with the MPD and the FBI's Birmingham Field Office.

Approximately 440 individuals have been arrested on charges related to the Capitol breach since January 6.
(WTVA) - Kansas City Southern and Canadian National are two railroad companies that are looking to merge and need permission from the Surface Transportation Board to do so.

KCS and CN jointly filed with the STB a renewed motion for approval of the merger.

In Mississippi, KCS tracks run through the communities of Tupelo, Verona, Shannon, and West Point to name just a few.

CN submitted a $33.7 billion bid to buy KCS and has said in the past that it has received broad support for the aquisition and potential merger.

CN has also committed to divesting KCS tracks that run from New Orleans to Baton Rouge in order to curb fears of a monopoly. Altogether, said tracks make up less than 0.7% of the total track owned and operated by both companies.

Reduced transit times, more reliable and timely service, and the lowering of greenhouse gases are all supposed benefits being advertised to the Surface Transportation Board by both parties.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-26 23:22:21|Editor: huaxia

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TASHKENT, May 26 (Xinhua) -- Uzbekistan and Afghanistan will sign an agreement on preferential trade by the end of the year to increase trade turnover by 2.5 times in the coming years, the Uzbek Ministry of Investments and Foreign Trade said Wednesday.

Implementation of this agreement will help Uzbekistan and Afghanistan to increase trade turnover between the two countries from the current 800 million U.S. dollars up to 2 billion dollars annually, according to the ministry.

This was announced during the talks between Uzbek Deputy Prime Minister Sardor Umurzakov and head of the Afghan Presidential Administration Mohammad Shakir Kargar in Termez city, administrative center of the Surkhandarya region.

The Uzbek side also welcomes Afghan entrepreneurs to seek business in the free trade zone "Termez International Trade Center" located on the border with Afghanistan.

Uzbekistan shares a short border line with Afghanistan in the south, and has been participating in the socio-economic revival and regional infrastructure projects, including railways and electricity lines of the country. Enditem
Mississippi city honors Freedom Rider legacy 60 years later

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) - Mississippis capital city is honoring the legacy of a Freedom Rider arrested there 60 years ago.

Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba proclaimed Wednesday as C.T. Vivian Day.

Freedom Riders challenged segregation in buses and bus terminals across the American South. Vivian was a minister who arrived in Jackson with other riders on May 24, 1961. They were taken to a local jail for several days. Then they were transferred to Mississippi's notorious Parchman prison, and guards beat Vivian and others.

Vivian received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013. He was 95 when he died in July.
Charleston, WV (25301)

Today

Foggy this morning, then partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 87F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 66F. Winds light and variable.
Charleston, WV (25301)

Today

Foggy this morning, then partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 87F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 66F. Winds light and variable.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 10:46:53|Editor: huaxia

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by Naim-Ul-Karim

DHAKA, May 27 (Xinhua) -- They were looking at each other and smiling as they attended a ceremony to receive COVID-19 vaccine doses China donated to Bangladesh.

They are students of Bangladesh's leading Dhaka Medical College.

Ananya Salam Samata, the first recipient of the Chinese vaccine, is a final year student of the Dhaka Medical College.

She said she felt so privileged to be the first person vaccinated with Chinese jab against COVID-19 in the country.

"I'm very happy," she said in her immediate reaction shortly after receiving the vaccine. "It's a memorable day for me."

As part of internship, she said they serve patients in hospital regularly.

"Due to COVID-19, we could not do that properly. Hope we could again serve patients as we are vaccinated. Our educational life will be the same as before at least to a some extent."

Another two Dhaka Medical College students, who received their first doses together with Ananya, also expressed their deep satisfaction to have the opportunity to receive the Chinese vaccine.

"I'm very happy indeed to receive Chinese vaccine," said Mollah Niyamul Haque.

"Thanks to the Chinese government for providing us the vaccine and thank you, honorable prime minister of Bangladesh, for providing us and providing medical front-liners first."

They expressed their gratitude to China for supporting their country with the COVID-19 vaccine donation.

"I'm very happy that I received China vaccine and I hope that it will work very well," said Shaheen Ahmed.

"I'm okay now. I feel that if everyone receives this vaccine then everyone will be OK and they will be able to continue classes and exams," he said.

"So thanks a lot for China."

The ceremony, held at Dhaka Medical College and Hospital on Tuesday and attended by Bangladeshi Health Minister Zahid Maleque and other officials, came after Bangladesh received its second batch of China-donated vaccine.

After the ceremony, about 1,000 final-year students from Bangladesh's four top leading medical colleges, namely Dhaka Medical College, Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College, Sir Salimullah Medical College and Mugda Medical College with their campuses based in capital Dhaka, all received their doses of the Chinese vaccine.

The health minister said they have decided to administer the China-gifted vaccine doses to those on the frontline as the priority group.

"We've to vaccinate them because they will provide care at various hospitals after completing their internship," he said in a speech during the ceremony.

He thanked China for donating the vaccine doses to Bangladesh and expressed the hope that Bangladesh would be able to procure more vaccines from China in the near future.

Bangladesh's drug regulator on April 29 authorized the emergency use of Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccine in the country, days after Dhaka suspended the first dosing of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine on a supply crunch.

Last week China announced to donate second batch of COVID-19 vaccines to Bangladesh.

The donation was made after Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a phone conversation with Bangladeshi Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen on the evening of May 21.

The announcement came just nine days after China's first donation of vaccines arrived in Bangladesh.

The Chinese Embassy here expressed hope that the arrival of the Chinese vaccines will help the Bangladeshi government and people build a strong line of defense against the epidemic.

China has recently announced that it is willing to provide necessary support for Bangladesh and other South Asian countries to fight the epidemic in the future. Enditem
Clarksburg, WV (26301)

Today

Mostly cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 87F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 15:54:45|Editor: huaxia

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JAKARTA, May 27 (Xinhua) -- At least five people were killed and three others suffered minor injuries as a pier collapsed in Indonesia's province of West Sumatra on Wednesday night, local official confirmed on Thursday.

Provincial police spokesperson Stefanus Satake told local media that the accident took place at around 6:00 p.m. local time when 14 visitors, who were divided into two groups, were taking group photos at different spots on the pier.

The first group, consisting of 10 people, was taking pictures in the middle part of the pier, and the other group was on the right part.

"Not long after taking group photos, the center of the pier with 10 visitors on it collapsed," local media quoted Satake as saying in a statement.

He said five of them tried to save themselves, but the other five, consisting of two men and three women, drowned and died.

All the victims belonged to a family residing in Sawahlunto city, he said.

The police are investigating the incident. Enditem
Wyoming briefs for May 27, 2021: Masks will stay on in Jackson schools; two killed in motorcycle crash; Fremont picks new ambulance provider
Amy Cooper, the white woman who called 911 over an encounter with a Black man while walking her dog in Central Park last year, has sued her former employer for alleged racial and gender discrimination.

The complaint was filed in New York federal court on Tuesday, exactly a year after Amy Cooper was caught on cellphone video in a verbal dispute with birdwatcher Christian Cooper, during which she falsely claimed to police that an "African American man" was threatening her and her dog.

The footage of the incident went viral on social media and sparked outrage. The following day, Amy Cooper was fired from her job at the Franklin Templeton investment firm. In a statement, the company said it terminated Amy Cooper immediately following an "internal review" of the incident and that "we do not tolerate racism of any kind."

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The lawsuit alleged that Amy Cooper was "characterized as a privileged white female 'Karen'" due to the company's public statements and alleges that the company did not perform an investigation into the incident, as publicly stated, and did not speak with Christian Cooper or obtain the full 911 calls.

"Even a perfunctory investigation would have shown that Plaintiff did not shout at Christian Cooper or call the police from Central Park on May 25, 2020 because she was a racist -- she did these things because she was alone in the park and frightened to death after being selected as the next target of Christian Cooper, an overzealous birdwatcher engaged in Central Park's ongoing feud between birdwatchers and dog owners," the complaint stated.

The dispute occurred after Christian Cooper asked Amy Cooper to leash her dog, which was off-leash in a part of the park known as the Ramble where that is not allowed.

MORE: White dog owner fired after calling 911 on black man in viral-video leash-law dispute

The lawsuit alleges that Franklin Templeton "perpetuated and legitimized the story of 'Karen' vs. an innocent African American to its perceived advantage, with reckless disregard for the destruction of Plaintiff's life in the process" and charges that the company would not have fired her if she were a different race and gender.

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It also claims the company's actions caused Amy Cooper to suffer "severe emotional distress" and that she was suicidal.

The lawsuit is seeking damages for loss of wages, bonus and unvested funds as well as emotional distress damages for alleged racial and gender discrimination, defamation and negligence, among other counts, in an amount to be determined at trial.

PHOTO: In this May 25, 2020 file photo, made from video provided by Christian Cooper, Amy Cooper talks with Christian Cooper in Central Park in New York. (Christian Cooper via AP, FILE)

Franklin Templeton defended its actions in a statement to ABC News.

"We believe the circumstances of the situation speak for themselves and that the Company responded appropriately," a spokesperson said. "We will defend against these baseless claims."

A day after the confrontation, Amy Cooper issued a public apology in an interview with CNN.

MORE: Christian Cooper accepts apology from woman at center of Central Park confrontation

"It was unacceptable, and I humbly and fully apologize to everyone who's seen that video, everyone that's been offended  everyone who thinks of me in a lower light. And I understand why they do," she said.

"I'm not a racist. I did not mean to harm that man in any way," she added. "I think I was just scared. When you're alone in the Ramble, you don't know what's happening. It's not excusable, it's not defensible."

Christian Cooper accepted her apology in an interview with "The View" but said the incident was part of a much deeper problem of racism in the United States that must be addressed.

In July, Amy Cooper was charged with falsely reporting an incident in the third degree. The charge was ultimately dismissed earlier this year after she completed a counseling program intended to educate her on the harm of her actions.

Amy Cooper sues ex-employer for racial discrimination after viral Central Park incident originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
1st. Lt. Hedwig Orlowski, 2nd Lt. Carol Drazba, 1st. Lt.Sharon Lane, Capt. Mary Klinker, Capt. Eleanor Alexander, 2nd Lt. Elizabeth Jones, 2nd Lt. Pamela Donovan, LTC Annie Graham

1st. Lt. Hedwig Orlowski, 2nd Lt. Carol Drazba, 1st. Lt.Sharon Lane, Capt. Mary Klinker, Capt. Eleanor Alexander, 2nd Lt. Elizabeth Jones, 2nd Lt. Pamela Donovan, LTC Annie Graham Credit - Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund

Second Lieutenant Elizabeth Ann Jones mother had recently mailed a wedding dress to her in Vietnam. Jones, whom a neighbor told the Associated Press had a zest for life, was planning to marry a man she had met after arriving months earlier to serve as an Army nurse. But on Feb. 18, 1966, Jones and her fiance were both killed in a helicopter crash near Saigon. Her colleague, Second Lieutenant Carol Ann Drazba, also perished. The two women, both 22, were the first American female service members to lose their lives in the Vietnam War.

Over the course of that conflict, eight American women service members lost their lives. But, even as Americans pause on Memorial Day to remember those who have been killed in combat, the sacrifices of women service members have often been obscured. They may be fewer in number than their male counterparts, but what they faced in Vietnam was no less serious.

We were definitely in combat zones. We were rocketed and we were mortared, and we were injured, and some died, says Diane Carlson Evans, founder of the Vietnam Womens Memorial. (Her story will be featured in a tribute concert this Sunday on PBS). Evans spent years fighting for an additional statue on the National Mall to honor the women who served in that conflict; it now stands as a reminder that women, too, have sacrificed and contributed.

Jones and Drazba, like the rest of the estimated 11,000 women who served in the American military in Vietnam, did not have to be there. But even though women were not conscripted, many felt compelled to help those who were fighting and suffering injuries. On paper, their roles kept them away from the front lines, but Vietnam was a war without clear distinctions on where that zone was. Increased utilization of helicopter transport meant the wounded made it to an operating room sooner, but close proximity also put nurses within range of hostile fire.

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In the early morning hours of June 8, 1969, an enemy attack claimed the life of First Lieutenant Sharon Lane, 25, at her hospital in Chu Lai. Jane Carson, a retired colonel who was then head nurse of Lanes ward, was getting ready for work when the rocket hit the center of their ward. Shrapnel hit Lane, killing her instantly.

Everybody was in a state of shock that we had lost somebody right in the middle of our hospital compound and couldnt save them, says Carson.

Before her death, Lane had asked to remain in the Vietnamese ward, where both civilians and POWs were treated. She was a very kind, gentle person, and she had a lot of empathy, Carson recalls. A foundation named after Lane built a clinic near Chui Lai in tribute.

Reflecting on her own decision, Carson does not regret goingbut says, I had no idea, none of us did, what we were getting into.

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Even so, Second Lieutenant Pamela Donovan, 26, was determined to get to Vietnam. She had become the only member of her Irish immigrant family to obtain U.S. citizenship, enabling her to serve in the Army. Her father later told the Boston Globe that she was very touched by what she saw happening in Vietnam on the news and was not at all frightened to go there. Shortly after she arrived, an illness claimed her life on July 8, 1968.

Captain Eleanor Alexander, 27, joined the Army after assurances that they would send her to Vietnam. But once there, she was restless working in the relative calm of a Qui Nhon hospital and sought a temporary transfer to Pleiku to be near the fierce fighting of the Battle of Dak To. Alexander wrote to her family that for the past three days Ive been running on about four hours sleepI love it.

Her letters, which were later excerpted for a newspaper article in her home state of New Jersey, took on a more serious tone as the days wore on. Dont worry if you dont hear anything from me too often, she wrote on Nov. 24, 1967. Its going to be a trying time up here.

Six days later, Alexander and Hedwig Diane Orlowski, a 23-year-old Army first lieutenant, were killed when their plane crashed into a mountainside on their return flight.

The telegram Orlowskis parents received erroneously notified them of their sons death, something Evans says deeply upset the family. Orlowskis friend Penny Kettlewell, who spent late nights talking with Orlowski about their patients, told the New York Times she tried to hold a remembrance for Orlowski, but her efforts were brushed aside by her supervisor. She said women dont die in Vietnam, Kettlewell told the Times in 1993.

For most of the women who disproved that statement, Vietnam was their first wartime assignment, but Lieutenant Colonel Annie Ruth Graham, highest-ranking among them, was a seasoned veteran who had served during World War II and the Korea War. She was planning to retire after more than two decades of service, much of it spent far away from her large, close-knit family in North Carolina. On her final assignment, Graham suffered a stroke and later died at the age of 51 in August of 1968.

In a sad coda to the war, Operation Babylift began to evacuate hundreds of South Vietnamese children in the spring of 1975, before the fall of Saigon. Among those on board an overcrowded cargo plane that crashed into a rice paddy shortly after takeoff on April 4, was Captain Mary Therese Klinker, 27, of the Air Force. A posthumous citation says she tended to a passenger with a decompression injury before the impact that took her life.

Their purpose in going to Vietnam was to heal, but nurses also had to cope with the losses they could not prevent. Evans vividly remembers one mortally wounded man, heavily bandaged and unable to speak, who squeezed her hand to indicate he that could hear her. Evans sat with and comforted him until he passed away. Young nurses cared for young soldiersand the perils of the war did not discriminate between them.

The decision to be placed in harms way, made by each of these eight women who did not come home, meant that others could. In a testament to Carol Ann Drazbas care, Johnny Williams, whom she treated after an ambush left him severely injured, sent flowers to her mother every year until he passed away.

Their names are etched among the more than 58,000 names on the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. As Evans says of the women who served, if it wasnt for us, that wall would be much higher and much wider.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch/USA Today From left: Cory Foltz and Shari Foltz

The parents of a 20-year-old Ohio college student who drank himself to death during a fraternity's hazing ritual earlier this year tearfully testified in front of lawmakers on Wednesday, urging them to pass an anti-hazing bill to prevent more deaths.

Stone Foltz, a sophomore at Bowling Green State University, died in the hospital on March 7, three days after an off-campus Pi Kappa Alpha initiation event where he and other fraternity pledges were encouraged to consume excessive amounts of alcohol.

Foltz died from alcohol poisoning after he drank an entire fifth of liquor, his father, Cory, told lawmakers, according to The Toledo Blade.

An investigative report, conducted on behalf of the university, said Foltz's blood alcohol content before he died was .35  four times the legal limit.

The report noted there was an apparent "tradition" at the initiation event, where new members met their "Bigs," that the new members would need to try and finish their liquor at the encouragement of others in the fraternity.

"Stone Foltz was apprehensive about the event, and he told non-PKA friends that he felt he had to drink an entire bottle of liquor or he could not join PKA," the report stated.

One witness told investigators that at the party, Foltz finished his entire bottle of bourbon in 20 minutes.

"Stone thought these guys were his friends, because they were soon to be his brothers," his mother, Shari Foltz, told lawmakers on Wednesday. "He trusted them, and yet none of these brothers were around to help. In fact, they just took him to his apartment, closed the door, and left him behind and never saw him again."

In April, eight people  including seven other students  were charged in Foltz's death.

Charges against one of them were subsequently dismissed, according to the Associated Press. The other seven have pleaded not guilty.

Story continues

In addition, 21 students were charged with infractions of the university's code of conduct.

But Cory and Shari Foltz testified in front of a state Senate committee on Wednesday, arguing that current legal punishments for hazing crimes are too weak and asking Ohio lawmakers to pass Collin's Law.

"We need the law to be passed," Cory later told the Blade.

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Gofundme Stone Foltz

Cory held back tears during his testimony as he described his son's death.

"Our son will never come through the door of our home to give us a hug and a kiss," Cory said, choking up.

"If hazing causes death or serious injuries, these kids need to know their behavior will follow them for a long time," Cory testified, calling for "stronger misdemeanors for hazing."

The school's investigative report said Foltz was initially found by his roommate passed out at his apartment after three other fraternity members took him home and left. The roommate and three other of Foltz's friends were "concerned" by his condition and called 911.

Collin's Law would increase the legal penalty against those who conduct hazing and create an "aggravated hazing" felony which could result in up to eight years in prison, according to the Blade.

The bill also encourages students to report hazing incidents  something Foltz's parents told lawmakers would decrease the likelihood another student would die from fraternity rituals.

The Blade reports the anti-hazing bill is named after Collin Wiant, an 18-year-old Ohio University student who died in 2018 as a result of a hazing incident. His mother, Kathleen, testified in March.

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"We don't know how widespread hazing is because the only time we hear about hazing is when there's a death, and it makes the news," Kathleen told lawmakers then, asking them to think about the impact on students' mental health even if they survive extreme hazing scares.

"What about all the hazing that doesn't make the headlines?" Kathleen said.

Earlier this month, local TV station WCMH reported that Shari filed a lawsuit against the fraternity and the university, saying that her son was "subjected to excessive hazing."

Stone's 17-year-old roommate, Wade McKenzie, also testified on Wednesday, telling lawmakers he thinks harsher laws are needed to cut down on hazing incidents.

"I have firsthand witnessed hazing taking a life," McKenzie said, according to the Blade. "Hazing is being treated as a minor crime but can lead to death. Therefore, it should not be treated as a minor crime."
FORT MYERS, Fla.  A police fraud investigator's observation skills brought down a wide-ranging ring of accused thieves who stole donations from churches throughout southwest Florida and across the nation, officials report.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement on Wednesday arrested four of six members of the alleged Romanian nationals' theft ring in Orlando and are looking for two others as part of Operation Thou Shalt Not Steal.

"These individuals, until very recently, were stealing money from churches across the country," Shane Pollard, FDLE Special Agent in Charge of Fort Myers Regional Operations, said at a media briefing Wednesday.

Pollard said the theft ring is charged with stealing more than 1,700 checks from 636 churches, including 355 in Florida, totaling more than $760,000. He added that the thefts got their start in Lee County in November 2019 and then spread countrywide.

Law enforcement said the suspects purchased vehicles, food and clothing with the stolen donations, and they frequently sent high-value wire transfers to Romania.

"We began our investigation in December after Cape PD officers identified 24 victim churches within Lee County, plus additional victims outside their jurisdiction," Pollard said. "It was almost a perfect crime as Covid-19 swept the country. Some church members stayed home from in-person church services and mailed in their offerings."

The mailbox is the focal point of how the thefts were carried out, Pollard said.

"This theft ring took full advantage of the situation, stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars in church donations out of church mailboxes," he said.

The investigation showed that thieves would visit churches on days there were no services, stopped at the mailboxes and took all the mail, including envelopes with checks.

They hit up to 85 churches a day, Pollard said, many churches targeted multiple times.

Pollard said there is surveillance video of some of the thefts.

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Grace United Methodist Church in Cape Coral, Florida, is affected

Among the 24 Lee County churches affected by the thefts was Grace United Methodist Church in Cape Coral, Florida.

Grace United executive pastor Taylor Foley said the church first caught wind that there was something amiss in the summer when its offices reopened.

"We had a dozen families affected," he said. "We actually had a family reach out to us and meet with one of our pastors concerned that their giving was not being reflected on the quarterly giving statements we send out."

He said the family's checks to the church had been cashed and endorsed and the family was concerned.

"We did our own internal review, just to make sure our internal checks and balances were being followed," he said, which was confirmed.

After checking with the bank and finding out that the checks were not being cashed into the church account and church officials then got in touch with Cape Coral police and state law enforcement.

Any funds that get recovered, Foley said, will go to the families, not the church. "We'll let them decide what to do," he said.

Pollard said that restitution will be part of the case as it winds its way through the court system.

"Any moneys we are able to recover, that will be applied to indemnify any of the church victims," he added.

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The affected Florida churches outside Lee County

Cape Coral Police Department Deputy Chief Lisa Barnes lauded Cape Coral Police Fraud Detective Meghan Hicks for her efforts in getting the investigation off just a local level.

"Detective Meghan Hicks was initially assigned two theft reports," Barnes said. "She quickly realized that this case had the potential to become very broad and cross over multi-jurisdictions."

Barnes said Hicks reached out to FDLE and the Florida attorney general's office and the case grew from five checks and about $940 to uncovering theft of more than 1,700 checks and more than $760,000.

Barnes said breaking the case provided a tremendous sense of relief to the Cape Coral police.

"When you see churches preyed upon, during Covid, you get a sense of accomplishment," to solve the case, Barnes said.

Florida churches outside Lee County feeling the sting of lost donations included various congregations spanning multiple denominations in Naples, Gainesville, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Neptune Beach, Atlantic Beach, Summerfield, Leesburg, Lake Mary, Longwood, Sanford, and Orange City.

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Church Theft Complaint by Michael Braun on Scribd

Churches outside Florida that had one or more checks made payable to said church, but deposited into the subjects bank accounts were in North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, and Illinois.

Wisconsin and Oregon churches were also on the list, Pollard confirmed, and added that the case remains active with more victims possible.

After taking the checks, Pollard said the suspects used a variety of aliases to deposit them into numerous bank accounts. The suspects used ATMs and then withdrew the funds as soon as they were posted but before the banks recognized the discrepancy.

This low-tech yet well-organized effort to steal hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of mailed-in charitable donations  at a time when donations may have been most needed  has been stopped," FDLE Commissioner Rick Swearingen said. "I appreciate the commitment of our investigators, analysts, Cape Coral PD and the Office of Statewide Prosecution for putting these criminals behind bars.

Arrested Wednesday were Ionut Raducan, 33; Marius Dumitru, 27; Marius Dumitru, also known as Viorel Dumitru, 34; and Panait Dumitru, 32. Each was charged with conspiracy to commit racketeering, racketeering, grand theft, unlawful possession of personal identification information, and money laundering

Follow Michael Braun on Twitter @MichaelBraunNP.

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Operation Thou Shalt Not Steal: Church theft suspects arrested
May 26RIO HONDO  Paloma Murillo, 18, never imagined she would become the powerlifter she is now.

The Rio Hondo High School senior took the State Lightweight Division at the 2021 Texas High School Women's Powerlifting Association when she squatted 315 pounds, benched 190 pounds and deadlifted 305 pounds for a total of 810 pounds.

Murillo was awarded Most Outstanding Bench and Total in the Lightweight Division.

As state champion in her division, she was given the opportunity to compete in the nationals qualifier in San Antonio. Murillo then returned home with college scholarship offers.

However, her story began in Port Isabel, where she grew up.

During her sophomore year, she began attending school in Rio Hondo and was told to try out powerlifting.

"It was for me to start working out, but later on I fell in love with the sport. And I just love lifting," Murillo said.

Since her recent trip, Murillo has been approached by the University of Texas at Austin, the University of Texas at San Antonio and Midland College in Nebraska.

Her school plans to hold a scholarship signing ceremony for her toward the end of May. She finally decided to attend college in Nebraska.

"I saw that they have a lot of good lifters. And I talked to the coach, and it seems like a really nice school. I look up to them," she said.

Murillo plans to study criminal justice and said she plans on becoming a police officer in the future.

However, her dream job is working for the FBI.

"It has been my dream job since middle school. I want to protect the people that I love, and I know a lot of people don't feel safe. And I want to make them feel safe," Murillo said.

Murillo is also a part-time hostess at Denny's in South Padre Island.

According to coach Mike Garza, she has always been disciplined and trained hard. Last season, after she qualified for state, Murillo set new goals and began working toward them.

"This year, she became Regional Champion and State Champion, so she was catching the eyes of recruiters early on," Garza said.

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"Paloma is one of the hardest workers and one of the most humble kids I know. We have a bunch of great kids in Rio Hondo, but it's been a great pleasure coaching Paloma," he said.

RHHS Principal Asael Ruvalcaba said the school was extremely proud of her achievements.

"She is a good scholar and athlete, and we look forward to seeing what she'll achieve in college," he said.

For Murillo, having these opportunities has been a one step closer to her goals.

"Sometimes I just cannot even believe it. Sometimes I feel there could have been someone else better than me. I always felt like I was not good enough at this sport," she said.

"I am so proud of myself," Murillo said.
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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 16:30:01|Editor: huaxia

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CANBERRA, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has pledged extra vaccines and defence force support for Victoria state which was put under a coronavirus lockdown.

The country's second-most populous state will enter a snap seven-day lockdown from midnight Thursday after authorities identified 10,000 primary and secondary contacts linked to a COVID-19 outbreak in Melbourne's northern suburbs.

Responding to the lockdown announcement, Morrison praised the "tremendous job" of contact tracers and promised "every support" available for the state including 130,000 additional vaccine doses.

"The next seven days in Victoria will be very challenging, and of course we are very mindful of the distress and the difficulty that this will impose upon people right across Victoria," he said.

Announcing the restrictions on Thursday, when 12 new local cases were reported, Acting Victorian Premier James Merlino said the lockdown may have been avoided if the national vaccine program was effectively rolled out and specialized quarantine facilities were established for returned international travellers.

Anthony Albanese, leader of the opposition Labor Party, said Victoria "never should have been put in this situation" because the federal government should have fixed quarantine many months ago.

According to Albanese, it was the 17th COVID-19 outbreak linked to hotel quarantine. Enditem
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Ian McDowell is the author of two published novels, numerous anthologized short stories, and a whole lot of nonfiction and journalism, some of which hes proud of and none of which hes ashamed of.
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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 17:50:37|Editor: huaxia

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PHNOM PENH, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia, host of the 13th ASEM Summit (ASEM13), has scheduled Nov. 25-26 for the meeting after postponement due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a senior foreign ministry official said.

"Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen has agreed to set a new date on Nov. 25-26, 2021 for the ASEM13," Luy David, foreign ministry's secretary of state, said in a letter signed on Wednesday and released to the media on Thursday.

Originally scheduled for Nov. 16-17 last year in the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh, the summit was first postponed to mid-2021 and again to the last quarter of 2021 due to the unabated risks posed by COVID-19.

The intergovernmental ASEM, or Asia-Europe Meeting, was established in 1996. It comprises 53 partners, including 21 Asian countries, 30 European countries, the ASEAN Secretariat, and the European Union. Enditem
Memorial Day is, above all else, about the selflessness of people like Charles Alan Jones. But there is no better way to pay tribute to our fallen heroes than by living out the vibrant community life they fought to protect.

On May 25, the Carry The Load relay team will stop at Omaha National Cemetery as part of their Midwest route, which winds over 4,000 miles through 14 states. Founded in 2011 by former Navy SEALs, Carry The Load sponsors relay teams who travel from city to city, handing off the same American flag to one another, to raise awareness in the weeks leading up to Memorial Day.

Also in Omaha, I am looking forward to participating in Patriotic Productions Memorial Day Patriotic Parade and Concert. I am honored to have the chance to walk with 100 Gold Star families from across the country during this moving event. Patriotic Productions well-known traveling memorial, Remembering Our Fallen, will also be on display throughout the weekend.

This Memorial Day, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on what so many of our family, friends, and neighbors gave up to make the American way of life possible. To those who served and to those who are serving today: Thank you.
 Memorial Day services will be held at the Friesen Cemetery at 9 a.m., the Bethesda Mennonite Church Cemetery at 10 a.m. and at the Mennonite Cemetery at 11 a.m. Please note, no glass containers or gravel is being requested, regarding arrangements brought to the cemetery. Flowers and other arrangements may be left at the cemetery for 10 days following Memorial Day. Any items left after June 10 will be disposed of. In the event of inclement weather, services will be canceled.

 A traditional Memorial Day is being planned at Farmers Valley Cemetery. The Memorial Day service will begin at 12:15 p.m., on Monday, May 31, when a 21-gun salute service will be presented by the Aurora American Legion, honoring the many veterans buried at the cemetery. At the conclusion of the service, guests have two options for lunch this year. Tables will be set up to enjoy food brought in for the potluck or guests are welcome to bring their own picnic lunch to enjoy with their families. Following lunch will be a time to share stories and visit with members of the Farmers Valley Cemetery Association. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy this celebration. Attendees are asked to bring their own table service, blankets, chairs and/or card tables. Electricity will be available for hot food. The cemetery is two miles west of Henderson and then south on Y Road. After crossing the Blue River, turn west on Farmers Valley Road, which will lead to the cemetery. If traveling from Sutton, head north out of town on the blacktop X Road. After following the curve to the east, turn north on Y Road, which will take you to Farmers Valley Road. The book Memories of Farmers Valley will be available for purchase.
"But there's more work to do," the governor said, pointing to the need for legislation to "slow the growth of local property tax bills."

During his brief end-of session address, Ricketts described pandemic-generated legislation to allow the purchase of carry-out alcoholic drinks as "probably the most popular thing I've done as governor."

"I salute your work to respond to the pandemic," the governor said.

"Nebraskans stepped up," he said. "Nebraska is what America is supposed to be."

Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard opened the 84th and final day of the regular legislative session with a post-pandemic prayer of thanksgiving: "We started with 49 senators," he said, "and we finished with the same 49."

Senators adjourned six days earlier than their 90-day legislative session allowed with an eye cast on the September special session.

Before they left, they couldn't resist one final, brief battle over the public school education curriculum in the state.
Chennai: Ford Motor Co said it will halt production at its car plant in India`s southern state of Tamil Nadu after workers staged a lunchtime sit-in protest on Thursday, demanding leave and health benefits, as the country battles the coronavirus.

The automaker will stop work at its Chennai plant on Friday and Saturday as it continues to engage with the union on other health and safety demands, Ford said in a statement.

"The safety of our workforce remains our topmost priority," a Ford India spokesman said, adding that the plant had been shut from May 14-May 22 at the behest of workers.

The sit-in protest is the latest expression of discontent and reluctance among factory employees in the southern state, home to India`s flourishing automobile industry, to work amid a surge in virus infections.

On Wednesday, the Chennai Ford Employees Union expressed concern in a letter to management after 230 workers caught the virus.

"The company should pay all medical expenses of workers affected by the coronavirus," the union said in Wednesday`s letter, reviewed by Reuters, and called for the plant to be shut until the state government removes lockdown restrictions.

It also sought compensation of 10 million rupees ($137,890) each for the families of two workers who died of the virus.

The union was still in discussion with the company about its demands, one of the sources said.

South Korea`s Hyundai Motor Co and France`s Renault, as well as its alliance partner Nissan Motor Co, halted production earlier this week in Tamil Nadu.

With more than 30,000 cases a day, Tamil Nadu is one of the states worst hit in India`s second devastating wave of infections. Factories turning out automobiles are among those it has allowed to stay open during lockdown.

Ford has two car manufacturing plants in India to meet domestic and export needs.

The Tamil Nadu facility, with annual capacity of 200,000 units, makes the EcoSport and Endeavour sport-utility vehicles.

The other, in the western state of Gujarat, can produce 240,000 cars a year.

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New Delhi: The GST Council is likely to discuss on Friday a reduction in the tax rate on Covid medicines, vaccines and medical equipment as well as means to make up for the shortfall in revenues promised to states.

Ahead of the first meeting of the top decision-making body, finance ministers of eight states ruled by non-BJP and like-minded parties -- Rajasthan, Punjab, Chhattisgarh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Kerala and West Bengal -- have devised a joint strategy to press for a zero tax rate on Covid essentials, sources said.

The Council, which is headed by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and includes representatives of all states and Union territories, is meeting for the first time in nearly eight months.

Besides discussion on tax rates, the Council may also deliberate on the estimated Rs 2.69 lakh crore that states need to be provided as per the promise in 2017 to make good any loss in revenue they suffer because of giving up their right to levy VAT and other taxes.

Sources said the Fitment Committee on GST rates, comprising tax officers of Centre and states, has also given its report to the Council listing out the pros and cons of waiver and zero-rating of Covid vaccines, drugs and other equipment.

Exempting final products from GST would deny manufacturers the option to claim the benefit of the input tax credit on raw materials and hence not much benefit accrues to consumers.

In 2018, the Council, following demands from various women's organisations, had exempted GST on sanitary napkins from an earlier rate of 12 per cent. However, not much of the rate cut benefits accrued to consumers as manufacturers could not claim the benefit of taxes paid along the supply chain.

Earlier this week, Punjab Finance Minister Manpreet Singh Badal, in a letter to Sitharaman, said that many goods, including protective garments, digital thermometers, laboratory sanitisers/disinfectants and paper bed sheets, which are needed to fight the Covid pandemic attract a basic customs duty of 20 per cent and a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of up to 18 per cent.

On top of that, a 10 per cent social welfare surcharge is levied on such items. As IGST is charged on taxable value, which includes import duties, the effective burden exceeds by another 2-3 per cent, Badal said.

"It is baffling that despite the crisis our country currently finds itself in... Taxes this high continue to apply on basic essentials needed to overcome this life-threatening disease...," Badal said in the letter.

Earlier this month, Sitharaman virtually ruled out exempting Covid vaccines, medicines and oxygen concentrators from GST, saying such an exemption will make the lifesaving items costlier for consumers as manufacturers will not be able to offset the taxes paid on inputs.

Currently, domestic supplies and commercial imports of vaccines attract a 5 per cent GST while COVID drugs and oxygen concentrators attract a 12 per cent levy.

With regard to the issue of compensation payable to states, the Centre has estimated the shortfall at Rs 2.69 lakh crore.

The Centre expects to collect over Rs 1.11 lakh crore through cess on luxury, demerit and sin goods which will be given to the states to compensate them for the shortfall in revenue arising out of GST implementation.

The remaining Rs 1.58 lakh crore would have to be borrowed to meet the promised compensation.

As per the agenda note shared with the states ahead of the GST council meeting on Friday, the Centre has estimated that although the GST revenues may see a recovery in the current financial year, there will still be a gap between the compensation need and the amount raised through cess.

The 2021-22 Budget has assumed 17 per cent growth in GST revenues, translating into monthly gross GST revenue of Rs 1.1 lakh crore.

Based on this assumption, it has been estimated that for the period February 2021 to January 2022, the gap between projected revenue and the actual revenue after the release of the compensation would be around Rs 1.6 lakh crore.

In the last fiscal, the Centre had borrowed on behalf of the states and released Rs 1.10 lakh crore to compensate for the GST revenue shortfall. Another Rs 68,700 crore was collected by way of levy of cess.

Under the GST law, states were guaranteed to be compensated bi-monthly for any loss of revenue in the first five years of the GST implementation from July 1, 2017.

The shortfall is calculated assuming a 14 per cent annual growth in GST collections of states over the base year of 2015-16.

With states still continuing to face a shortfall in revenue as GST collections declined on account of slowing economic activity mainly due to Covid, the GST compensation cess would continue beyond the first five years of GST implementation.

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New Delhi: The Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday (May 27) arrested at least seven Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist associates Awantipora area and prevented six youths from the Valley from joining militant ranks.

"In multiple raids, Awantipora Police along with Army 42 RR and CRPF180 BN/CRPF 130 BN apprehended six youths," the police said in a statement. As per the police statement, the apprehended youths were planning to join militant ranks. The arrested youth were motivated and indoctrinated by the militant associates and militant to join the militant ranks.

Police statement further reads, "Youth developed contact with active terrorists in the area and was lured into joining the militancy ranks. The arrested youths were motivated by Pakistan based self style militant commanders to join militancy and asked to establish contact with their ground cadre in Awantipora and Tral area," read the police statement.

Acting on specific inputs, Awantipora Police, along with security forces busted militant module and arrested seven militant associates of outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad. The arrested militant Associates are involved in providing logistics, shelter, transporting of arms/ammunition and other kind of support to militants of Jaish-e-Mohammad in Tral and Awantipora areas, police said.

The arrested militant associates were in touch with Pakistan-based self-styled commanders through different social media platforms. Police also recovered incriminating material from their possession.

An FIR - 51/2021 has been registered at the TRal police station under relevant sections of law.

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New Delhi: The central government on Thursday (May 27) announced Rs 5 lakh financial relief to the families of journalists who died due to COVID-19.

The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting said that it has compiled details of journalists who lost their lives due to the pandemic in the years 2020 and 2021 and started a special drive to provide assistance to their families under the Journalist Welfare Scheme (JWS).

Today, the Central Government approved a proposal of Journalist Welfare Scheme Committee headed by Sh. Amit Khare, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, to provide financial relief of Rs 5 lakh to each of the families of 26 journalists who died due to COVID-19, the ministry said in a statement.

In the financial year 2020-21, the Central Government provided such assistance to 41 families of the journalists deceased due to COVID taking the total number to 67. Committee expressed their deep condolences to the families of the journalists affected due to COVID, it added.

The committee decided to hold JWS meetings on a weekly basis so that applications for financial assistance under JWS can be processed expeditiously.

The Committee considered applications of 11 families of those journalists who had passed away due to reasons other than COVID-19.
New Delhi: Twitter India is fishing in troubled waters since it marked tweets of BJP ministers as manipulated media. Responding to the recent Delhi Police raid to its IT office, the microblogging platform on Thursday (May 27) said that it is deeply committed to the people of India.

Our service has proven vital for public conversation and a source of support for people during the pandemic. To keep our service available, we will strive to comply with applicable law in India. But, just as we do around the world, we will continue to be strictly guided by principles of transparency, a commitment to empowering every voice on the service, and protecting freedom of expression and privacy under the rule of law, a Twitter spokesperson said.

The fiasco has come at a time when the Centre is keen on implementing the IT rules designed for social media platforms. Twitter said that it is concerned by recent events regarding its employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people it serves.

We, alongside many in civil society in India and around the world, have concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police in response to enforcement of our global Terms of Service, as well as with core elements of the new IT Rules, the spokesperson added.

Meanwhile, Delhi Police called out Twitter, rebutting the microblogging platforms claims while making counter-allegations of its own. Delhi Police said that the statements released by Twitter are not only mendacious but designed to impede a lawful inquiry by a private enterprise.
New Delhi: The government of the Republic of Korea has been supporting India by dispatching vital medical supplies to fight the COVID-19 pandemic since May 9. On Thursday (May 27), the last tranche of medical support including 8,500 antigen detection kits (for 212,500 tests) arrived at 6:30 pm at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi.

Till date, the Korean government has sent six consignments of medical aid in three tranches from May 9-27. In total, 330 oxygen concentrators, 200 negative pressure carriers, 200 oxygen cylinders, 18,500 antigen detection kits (for 462,500 tests), 10 ventilators have been delivered from the Korean government to the Indian Red Cross Society.

The Korean government stands committed to work closely with the Indian government in responding to the challenges amid this COVID-19 pandemic.
New Delhi: At least four people reportedly lost their lives in Odisha and West Bengal as Cyclone Yaas pounded the eastern coast on Wednesday (May 26).

As per PTI report, two persons were killed - one each in Keonjhar and Balasore- after trees fell on them. An elderly woman in Mayurbhanj reportedly died after her house collapsed. However, there is no official confirmation yet.

While West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said one crore people were affected in the state due to the cyclone. She informed that one person died "accidentally" when he had gone out fishing. "At least one crore people were impacted, and three lakh houses and 134 embankments damaged," Banerjee told reporters.

In view of the cyclonic storm, around 21 lakh people were evacuated to safe shelters in West Bengal, Odisha and Jharkhand.

Meanwhile, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Wednesday announced seven days' relief for all the villages marooned due to Cyclone Yaas.

Around 128 villages across the coastal region of the state remain inundated after the cyclonic storm hit Odisha. Most of these affected villages are in Balasore and Bhadrak districts, PTI quoted sources as saying.

The CM directed officials to ensure that all major roads affected by the cyclone be repaired along with 80 per cent of electricity supply being restored within the next 24 hours in the areas recovering from the cyclone. Nearly 605 roads have been damaged of which 495 have been repaired in Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Jajpur, Balasore, Bdahrak districts.

The people in these 128 villages will be provided with cooked food or cooking materials and dry food for seven days. "Local panchayat bodies and block-level officials will make the arrangements for it", Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) P K Jena said.

Cyclone Yaas made landfall around 9 am near Dhamra port in Odisha on Wednesday with heavy downpour, gusty winds pounding the coastal areas of Odisha and West Bengal.

Meanwhile, the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar and the East Coast Railway resumed operations from Wednesday evening, officials told the news agency. In the wake of the cyclone, the airport had suspended flight services for about 20 hours while the ECoR had cancelled 124 trains.

(With PTI inputs)

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 20:02:55|Editor: huaxia

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TASHKENT, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan signed an agreement on a joint Uzbek-Turkmen intergovernmental commission for water management issues, as well as a document on paid land use, the Uzbek Foreign Ministry said Thursday.

The documents were signed during the visit of Uzbek Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov to Turkmenistan.

The agreements "will serve as a breakthrough in the joint exploitation of transboundary water resources on a rational and fair basis, in the spirit of friendship and good neighborliness," according to a Uzbek ministry statement.

The two countries share water from Amu Darya, a river important for the livelihood of the people in the Central Asian region, where water shortages become an acute problem during summer irrigation periods. Enditem
Lucknow: Amid the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Board of High School and Intermediate Education, Uttar Pradesh is all set to conduct the board examinations of class 12 for academic session 2020-21.

The education department is prepared to conduct the board examination as it has already printed the question papers and arranged 8,513 examination centres to maintain the COVID-19 protocols, according to reports.

The education department is going to maintain COVID-19 protocols strictly at board examination centres.

Uttar Pradesh Deputy CM Dinesh Sharma has stated that he will discuss the class 12 board exam matter with the state CM and a decision is likely by month-end.

"We have already printed the papers, made sets of decoded copies, and allocated 8,513 centers to follow social distancing during examinations. We're analysing COVID situation." he told ANI.

We have already printed the papers, made sets of decoded copies, & allocated 8,513 centers to follow social distancing during examinations. We're analysing COVID situation. We'll discuss with CM & final decision will likely be taken by end of this month: Deputy CM Dinesh Sharma pic.twitter.com/peLBAsCyuZ  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 26, 2021

The health department is reportedly ready to assist the state in conducting the class 12 board exams as soon as the education department concludes the dates for the examination.

"When education dept will finalise (dates for 12th board exams) then health dept will see how to maintain COVID protocols in centers. We've conducted panchayat polls & other programs following COVID protocols. So, it won't be difficult for us," UP Health Minister Jai Pratap Singh told ANI.

When education dept will finalise (dates for 12th board exams) then health dept will see how to maintain COVID protocols in centers. We've conducted panchayat polls & other programs following COVID protocols. So, it won't be difficult for us: UP Health Minister Jai Pratap Singh pic.twitter.com/Q6UDFVdGmR  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) May 26, 2021

It is pertinent to know that the Uttar Pradesh education department has not canceled board examinations for class 10 yet. It will announce the decision of the board examination at the end of month May after reviewing the situation of the COVID-19 pandemic in the state.

ALSO READ: UPSSSC Recruitment 2021: More than 50,000 posts vacant in Group C due to COVID-19 pandemic
New Delhi: At present, there is a massive confrontation going on between major technology companies and the Indian government. WhatsApp has moved the Delhi High Court against the Centre regarding the new IT rules. Facebook has not implemented the rules even after 90 days. And Twitter is telling the government what freedom of expression means.

Zee News Anchor Aman Chopra on Thursday (May 27) explained the ongoing tussle between the social media firms and the government over the new IT rules.

India was ruled by the British for 190 years. The East India Company waited for 100 years to make it happen. Something similar is happening today as big social media companies are doing business in India that consider themselves above the law.

First, these foreign companies established a massive business in India. The number of users is in crores. Today they have become so big that they are challenging the government.

At the root of this whole controversy is the new rules made by the Government of India on February 25. Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter, Instagram, Telegram, Signal, and Snapchat have not obeyed the governments order.

According to the government, these new rules were to be applied to these social media companies in 3 months, but the deadline was crossed. Now, these companies have chosen to directly challenge the government.

WhatsApp has filed a lawsuit against the Government of India in the Delhi High Court. In this, it has described the demand of user traceability made by the government as unconstitutional and argued that if it implemented the new rules, it would violate the privacy of its users.

WhatsApp's parent company, Facebook, took another route to avoid action. It has said that it wants to discuss some points with the government and only then a decision will be taken.

WhatsApp argues that if it informs the government about the first originator of any message and information, then it will violate its End-to-End encryption policy.

Centre says that user traceability does not mean that the government is asking for information from all users. It said that the details would be sought only in case of serious crimes, terrorist activities or when there is a threat to national security.

Apart from India, Brazil, New Zealand, Canada, UK, USA and Australia have also demanded such information.

Today, Twitter issued a press release in which it raised concerns about freedom of expression and the safety of its employees working in India.

The Centre promptly responded to the statement. It said that India has a centuries-old rich history of democracy and freedom of expression and that foreign companies need not preach them.

The bottom line is that the Government of India is responsible for the law and order in the country. Private companies cannot stop the government from doing its work in the name of privacy. All companies must follow the law of the land.

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Washington: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is currently on a 5-day visit to United States, is scheduled to hold a series of meetings with top officials of the Biden administration including US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin at the Pentagon on Friday.

During his three-day stay here, EAM Jaishankar (66) is scheduled to meet his American counterpart, Secretary of State Tony Blinken, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, along with other key members of the Biden administration, said a PTI report.

"The (defense) secretary will be meeting on Friday with the Indian Minister of External Affairs, Jaishankar, as part of India's first cabinet-level visit to Washington," Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby told reporters at a news conference.

Kirby is further quoted by PTI as saying, "The secretary is meeting with the external affairs minister, will continue discussions that the two held in New Delhi in March and will continue the robust bilateral defence and security relationship between our two countries. We are looking forward to having him here at the Pentagon and hosting him for a good set of talks."

Jaishankar is expected to meet a group of eminent business leaders on Thursday at two different meetings organised by the US India Business Council and the US India Strategic and Partnership Forum.

"It will be a continuation of the discussion, the very productive discussions that we had when we were in New Delhi a month or so ago. Because India is a strategic defence partner and so, there are lots to discuss," Kirby told reporters in response to a question at his Pentagon news conference.

Jaishankar, who was the Indian Ambassador to the US from December 2013 to January 2015, is also scheduled to have meetings with eminent American lawmakers. Congressman Brad Sherman, Co-Chair of the India Caucus, said he looks forward to meeting with Jaishankar, India's Ambassador to the US Taranjit Singh Sandhu and other leaders concerned with the US-India relationship for dinner on Wednesday.

On Wednesday, in a conversation with former US National Security Advisor General (retd) H R McMaster, who is currently at the Hoover Institute, Jaishankar said in Washington DC today, there is a real appreciation of the potential of the India-US relationship and what it can do.

"And it is true of New Delhi as well. The challenge for us, keeping in mind a lot of the issues...It is not a question of one or two or three countries who will decide how the world is. The world is truly much more multipolar. And if it is multipolar, then it is all the more important for countries to learn how to work with each other more effectively. And I see a big change in the American mindset in that regard."

Jaishankar said, "The United States has not only an enormous ability to reinvent itself, it also has a great ability to assess its situation and re-strategise in a way. I do think that when it comes to the big issues of our day, maybe because we are pluralistic societies, because we are political democracies, because we are market economies that we have fundamental convergences, convergences which are societal, convergences which are geopolitical."

He further added, "I think the challenge before us is how to translate those convergences into actionable policies. That is really what I was very happy to work with you during your tenure as national security adviser...And I certainly look forward to doing that with the people in the administration."

The State Department, however, has not yet announced the timing of Blinken's meeting with Jaishankar at its Foggy Bottom headquarters. Blinken is currently travelling in the Middle East as asked by Biden to continue with the peace process.

Earlier this week, a State Department spokesperson said, "The secretary (of state) looks forward to meeting minister Jaishankar during his visit and discussing a broad range of issues, including COVID-19 relief, efforts to strengthen Indo-Pacific cooperation through the Quad, enhanced UN and multilateral cooperation, and a range of other shared regional security and economic priorities."

Notably, India is engaged in talks with various US entities involved in Covid vaccines production and is looking forward to procuring and subsequently producing these vaccines. The issue of vaccine procurement is expected to be a key agenda item during Jaishankar`s interaction with US leadership and other stakeholders.

The US has already announced that it is going to distribute 80 million vaccines from its stockpile to countries in need. The US is playing a lead role in assisting India`s fight against the COVID-19 virus. It has already provided large oxygen plants, concentrators, critical medicines like Remdesivir and also raw materials for vaccine manufacturer Serum Institute of India (SII), which is manufacturing Covishield.

The US is also backing the India-sponsored proposal on TRIPS waiver at the WTO. The TRIPS waiver aims at increasing global vaccine production in order to take on the challenge of vaccinating the poorest of the poor and save lives.

In October 2020, India and South Africa, along with 57 members of WTO proposed a waiver from certain provisions of the TRIPS agreement for prevention, containment, and treatment of the coronavirus. EAM Jaishankar met his US counterpart Antony Blinken in early May in London during G7 Foreign Minister`s meeting.

(With Agency Inputs)

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New Delhi: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that the state has now moved into a COVID 'safe zone'. In a statement, he said that the state has proved the critics wrong and managed to 'successfully blunt the surge through the trace, test and treat method.

Adityanath, who is visiting various districts to review COVID management programs, has asked village heads to quarantine anyone who shows symptoms of the virus. "Uttar Pradesh has emerged as the state with the most COVID tests and at the vanguard of the vaccination campaign. Till Wednesday, we have conducted 48.7 million corona tests," he said.

"More than 3 lakh COVID tests are being conducted every day in the state. We started from scratch, and today we are conducting almost 3.5 lakh COVID tests every day," CM Yogi Adityanath said while speaking to Zee News.

The CM said that the condition of coronavirus in Uttar Pradesh is under control but some people spread panic about it. He said that institutions fall short during the time of an epidemic but 'we fought this pandemic with passion.' CM Adityanath said that at the beginning of the coronavirus epidemic, they did not have a system of treatment.

"There were no beds in hospitals at the start, but today, with the help of the Prime Minister of India and the government of India, we have more than 80,000 beds," he said.

The Chief Minister further said that all districts in the state are being made self-sufficient in terms of oxygen and more than 300 oxygen plants are being set up. Adityanath also stressed on the need to support work being done by surveillance committees. The government, he said, had begun a 'Mera Gaon, Corona Mukt Gaon' initiative to ensure rural areas were free of COVID-19.

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Hyderabad: The former president United States of America John F.Kennedy had once challenged every American to contribute in some way to the public good with his famous words, "Ask not what your country can do for you.. ask what you can do for your country."

Setting a fine example of such service to its country, the villagers in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh came together to save and safeguard not only its own people but also to help surrounding villages as the deadly second wave COVID-19 pandemic spreads havoc all across.

Golla Mamidada or G.Mamidada village is about 18 kilometres from Kakinada town in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. Like every village in the country which has been in the grip of this pandemic, this village was no different. To get treatment, the villagers used to go to Kakinada. The "Rural Health Centre" in the village was not preferred for its condition.

However, a local journalist Sabbela Sivanarayana Reddy came up with an idea and started a group and explained to local villagers, including Sarpanch, the importance of self-sustainment. Within no time, everyone from this village, some of whom are well off, contributed and collected a corpus of Rs 50 lakhs only to be spent on COVID-19 related treatment for villagers.

"First, all villagers cleaned up our own 'Rural Health Centre' which is affiliated to Government Rangaraya Medical College in Kakinada. We have temporarily converted it to "Golla Mamidada Covid Care Centre" with 30 beds with Oxygen support for each bed. We did all by ourselves without asking for a single rupee from the government," says Sabbella Sivanarayana Reddy.

With a population of approximately 15,000, the death toll due to COVID-19 in Golla Mamidada which comes under 'Major Panchayat' category is said to be nearly 100 in the second wave prompting the village to set in motion a co-ordinated approach to tackle the pandemic.

"Our village is always together and in times like these we have to be united, and I was one among them to lead the way. We want our village to be safe and everyone should be healthy," informs Lanka Muni, sarpanch of Golla Mamidada.

Many villagers, some of whom are affluent, donated generously. A family donated an ambulance worth Rs 8 lakhs. A USA-based company "Empower and Excel" donated beds.

Owner of local educational society who runs group of colleges not only converted his hostel premises into 150 bed isolation centre with his own money, but is also taking care of providing nutritious food free of cost to everyone who is in isolation or quarantined.

"It's our duty and responsibility to help whichever way we can under these challenging times. I am also part of this village and I too wanted to contribute in my own humble way," says DRK Reddy, founder & chairman Gollala Mamidada Education Society.

Inspired by the villagers' efforts, local MLA of Anaparthy constituency Dr Satti Suryanarayana Reddy is coordinating by getting all the medical help like doctors, testing staff, testing kits, medicines from the state government side. The 'Golla Mamidada Covid Care Centre' will start functioning from today.
New Delhi: The Indian Medical Association has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take appropriate action under sedition and other charges against Baba Ramdev for allegedly "spearheading a misinformation campaign on COVID vaccination".

IMA alleged Baba Ramdev`s only objective is achieved is to make profits and gains at the expense of the lives of millions of people.

Further, by spreading disbelief and rumours about the coronavirus vaccines and as a result, the vaccination campaign of the Government of India, Baba Ramdev is not only causing disaffection towards Government but is also committing acts that have disturbed and are likely to further disturb public tranquillity, the IMA said.

"The Indian Medical Association is proactively spearheading your commitment to enforcing vaccination to all above 18 years as the tool to overcome the corona pandemic. When you initiated the vaccine rollout, IMA leaders across the country stood first to get the vaccine and by this dispelled the vaccine hesitancy. With the sincere efforts of the Government and the modern medical healthcare professional India could vaccinate nearly 20 crore people, one of the fastest vaccination drives in the world. We laud your motive to augment the indoor production of more vaccines and approval of vaccines from other countries to be used in our country," the IMA wrote in its letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

IMA also lauded the Prime Minister for his effort to address the importance of vaccination in all public addresses. The apex body of Indian doctors appealed to Prime Minister Modi to give motivation for vaccination in the forthcoming "Mann Ki Baat" episodes.

"At this juncture, we are pained to bring to your kind notice, two videos where Ramdev, owner of Patanjali Ayurved, is seen inter alia to be claiming that 10,000 doctors have died in spite of taking both the dose of vaccine and that lakhs of people have died due to allopathic medicine.

He has also claimed that `Allopathy Ek stupid Aur Diwaliya Science Hai` and that thousands of people have died from taking allopathic medicines for the treatment of COVID-19 related symptoms. These videos are circulating virally on social media," IMA claimed.

IMA said its members follow the guidelines and protocols issued by the Ministry of Health through ICMR or the National task force in our treatment offered to millions of people coming to our hospitals.

If someone is claiming that allopathic medicine has killed people, it is challenging the Ministry which has issued the protocol for treatment to us as well as the office of the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) and Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) which have approved the said allopathic drugs for treating/helping COVID19 patients.

IMA, the professional organization of Modern Medicine Doctors has time and again stated that it respects, acknowledges and compliments all systems of medicine especially our Indian system of Ayurvedic Medicine, as each system is helping our people differently.

"We are not against any medicine promoted by the Ministry and happy to share the drugs promoted by the AYUSH ministry in most of our public health treatment centres. We opposed certain drugs which were being falsely promoted as curative drugs, without any approval from the Ministry/competent authorities. Ministry of AYUSH had also issued a press release to Patanjali to stop advertising / claiming its drug Coronil as a `cure` for Coronavirus," IMA said.

IMA informed that in the war against the COVID-19 pandemic, modern medicine doctors have been fighting on the front lines, putting their own lives at risk for treating COVID-19 patients including very critical patients.

The country has lost 753 doctors in the first wave and 513 in the second wave. None in the first wave could receive the vaccine and the majority who had died in the second wave also could not take their vaccine for various reasons.

IMA alleged that people like Baba Ramdev by making false statements are spreading rumours and creating hesitations or superstitions in the minds of the common man thereby discouraging them from getting vaccinated.

"Ramdev in his publicly made statements has deceitfully and falsely stated that 10,000 doctors have died in spite of taking two doses of vaccination. It is a deliberate move to stall the efforts of vaccination to reach our masses and it needs to be curtailed immediately," said the doctors` body.

IMA said the reports where the frontline workers including ASHA workers who have been tasked with carrying out the vaccination drives, had been assaulted and attacked by people who have fallen for false and misleading assertions by Baba Ramdev.

"This clearly demonstrates the widespread fear and panic created in the minds of the common public through the false, scurrilous and malicious statements made by people such as Ramdev who enjoy huge public following and are able to brainwash the layman," it said.

"We appeal to you to take appropriate action against all individuals including Ramdev who are spreading rumours and superstitions for their own vested interests, and are viciously propagating the message of fear of vaccination and challenging the Government of India`s protocols for treatment," it added.

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) on Saturday sent a legal notice to yoga guru Baba Ramdev over his alleged statements against allopathy and "defaming" scientific medicine. However, the Patanjali Yogpeeth Trust has denied allegations by the IMA that Ramdev has misled people by making "unlearned" statements against allopathy and defamed scientific medicine.

According to a Haridwar-based Patanjali Yogpeeth Trust statement, Yog Guru Ramdev was reading out a WhatsApp forwarded message in the video that has gone viral on social media.

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New Delhi: Facing accusations of delay in placing orders for vaccines, the government on Thursday defended its vaccine procurement policy saying it has been pursuing Pfizer, J&J and Moderna since mid-2020 for the earliest possible imports, and has even waived local trials for well-established foreign vaccine makers.

"Buying vaccines internationally is not similar to buying 'off-the-shelf' items," the government said in a statement titled 'Myths & Facts on India's Vaccination Process'.

The statement said the Central government has proactively eased entry of vaccines approved by USFDA, EMA, UK's MHRA and Japan's PMDA, and WHO's Emergency Use Listing into India in April.

"These vaccines will not need to undergo prior bridging trials. The provision has now been further amended to waive off the trial requirement altogether for the well-established vaccines manufactured in other countries," it said.

The statement said no application of any foreign manufacturer for approval is pending with the drugs controller.

The Modi government has often been criticised by opposition parties particularly the Congress for placing orders for vaccines as late as January this year and delaying approvals for foreign manufacturers to sell shots in the country.

The statement, however, did not give out details of when and how many vaccines were ordered.

The statement further pointed out that vaccines are in limited supply globally, and companies have their own priorities, game-plans and compulsions in allocating finite stocks.

"They also give preference to countries of their origin just as our own vaccine makers have done unhesitatingly for us. As soon as Pfizer indicated vaccine availability, the Central government and the company are working together for the earliest possible import of the vaccine," it said.

According to the statement, the Centre has engaged continuously with all the major international vaccine manufacturers right from mid-2020.

"Multiple rounds of discussions have happened with Pfizer, J&J & Moderna. The government offered all assistance to have them supply and/or manufacture their vaccines in India," it said.

The statement said as result of the government's efforts, Sputnik vaccine trials got accelerated and with timely approval, Russia has already sent two tranches of vaccines and accomplished tech-transfer to Indian companies that would start manufacturing very soon.

"We reiterate our request to all international vaccine makers to come and make in India, for India and for the world," it said.

The government has faced criticism from several quarters over the shortage of vaccines and inability of the immunization programme to pick up pace at a time when the country is facing a tidal wave of infections and a rising death toll.

The statement also refuted the claim by some opposition leaders that the Centre is not doing enough to ramp-up domestic production of vaccines.

"The central government is playing the role of an effective facilitator to enable more companies to produce vaccines from early 2020.

"There is only one Indian company (Bharat Biotech) which has the IP. The government of India has ensured that three other companies/ plants will start production of Covaxin apart from enhancing Bharat Biotech's own plants, which have increased from 1 to 4," it said.

The statement further said that Covaxin production by Bharat Biotech is being increased from under 1 crore per month to 10 crore per month by October.

Additionally, it said the three PSUs will together aim to produce up to 4 crore doses by December.

"With constant encouragement of the government, Serum Institute is ramping up Covishield production from 6.5 crore doses per month to 11.0 crore doses per month.

"The government of India is also ensuring in partnership with Russia that Sputnik will be manufactured by six companies coordinated by Dr Reddy's," the statement noted.

The statement also rejected the allegation that the Centre has abdicated its responsibility to the states saying it is doing all the heavy-lifting, from funding vaccine manufacturers to giving them quick approvals to ramping up production to bringing foreign vaccines to India.

According to the statement, in fact, the government of India ran the entire vaccine program from January to April and it was quite well-administrated compared to the situation in May.

"But states, who had not even achieved good coverage of healthcare workers and frontline workers in 3 months wanted to open up the process of vaccination and wanted more decentralisation. Health is a state subject & the liberalised vaccine policy was a result of the incessant requests being made by the states to give states more power," it said.

On allegations by some states that the Centre is not giving enough vaccines to the states, it pointed out that the Centre is allotting enough vaccines to the states in a transparent manner as per agreed guidelines.

"The behaviour of some of our leaders, who in spite of full knowledge of the facts on vaccine supply, appear on TV daily and create panic among the people is very unfortunate. This is not the time to play politics. We need everyone to unite in this fight," the statement said.

India is currently using mainly two 'made-in India' jabs 'Covishield manufactured by the Serum Institute and Covaxin of Bharat Biotech' and Russian-made Sputnik V at a smaller scale to inoculate its population, all of which are approved only for those aged 18 years and above.
NEW DELHI: After a significant decline in the number of coronavirus cases, India on Thursday reported 2,11,298 new COVID-19 cases in a single day, according to the Union Ministry of Health.

As many as 2,11,298 people tested positive for Covid-19 across the country in the last 24 hours, taking the cumulative caseload to 2,73,69,093, the Union Health Ministry data showed on Thursday.

According to the Union Health Ministry data, there are currently 24,19,907 active cases across the country, while 2,46,33,951 patients have been discharged so far, with 2,83,135 discharges reported in the last 24 hours.

India reports 2,11,298 new #COVID19 cases, 2,83,135 discharges & 3,847 deaths in last 24 hrs, as per Health Ministry Total cases: 2,73,69,093

Total discharges: 2,46,33,951

Death toll: 3,15,235

Active cases: 24,19,907

Total vaccination: 20,26,95,874 pic.twitter.com/C7OxNW18fA  ANI (@ANI) May 27, 2021

This marks a slight increase in the newly reported COVID infections as the number stood at 2.08 lakh in the previous 24 hours period. The new fatalities in the same duration, however, have gone down as 3,847 more people succumbed to the disease. The number stood at 4,157 on Wednesday.

The cumulative death toll in the country now stands at 3,15,235.

India on Wednesday reported 2,08,921 COVID-19 infections, pushing the overall tally of cases to 2,71,57,795, as the country conducted 22,17,320 coronavirus tests, its highest-ever in a day, according to Union Health Ministry data.

The death toll also climbed to 3,11,388 with 4,157 fatalities reported in a 24-hour period, the data updated at 8 am showed. A total of 22,17,320 tests, the highest in a day, were conducted on Tuesday taking the cumulative number so far in the country to 33,48,11,496, while the daily positivity declined to 9.42 per cent, the ministry said.

This was the second day in a row that the case positivity rate has remained below 10 per cent, the ministry said. The weekly positivity rate has also declined to 11.45 per cent.

India has so far tested 33,69,69,352 samples for Covid-19 until 26 May, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Out of these, 21,57,857 samples were tested on Wednesday, a slight decline as compared to the day before when the number stood at 22,17,320.

The country crossed the grim milestone of 2 crore cases on May 4. The Health Ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities or preexisting health conditions.

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New Delhi: Did you tie the knot during COVID-19 lockdown restrictions in the month of May 2021 in Madhya Pradesh? If yes, you may not be issued a marriage certificate as the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government in the state plans to punish those who violated the COVID-19 curbs and went ahead and tie the knot.

The Shivraj Singh Chouhan government imposed a ban on weddings in May in the wake of a massive surge in cases of coronavirus across the state. However, media reports suggest that despite the imposition of the ban by the government, there have been at least 130 marriage ceremonies that were conducted 'secretly' while violating the norms set by the government.

The marriage registrar's office has been ordered by the District Magistrates not to issue any certificates for these couples who tied the knot during the period when weddings were banned, or face action.

Moreover, these couples will be booked who section 188 for 'disobedience to orders duly promulgated by a public servant under the Indian Penal Code (IPC)', the DMs orders say.

A few district collectors have now issued a separate order to declare such marriages illegal and asked the registrar office not to issue any certificates for nuptials tied in May, failing which, even officials may be booked under section 188 for disobedience to orders duly promulgated by a public servant under the Indian Penal Code (IPC), says the order.

After the Madhya Pradesh government imposed a ban on weddings in the state in the month of May, many couples went ahead with their marriage plans and shifted to the neighbouring state of Uttar Pradesh to carry out rituals and ceremonies. For those couples who got married in other states, this order will not have any impact.

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New Delhi: A 19-year-old girl was killed while her mother suffered critical injuries on Thursday (May 27) in a mysterious blast that took place in Handwara area of Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district.

According to reports, the mother-daughter duo, aged 49 and 19 respectively, was cleaning collard greens, popularly known as 'Haakh and some forest vegetables kept inside a bag at their residence in Sharkoot Villgam in Taratpora Amargargh area of Handwara. Suddenly, a blast occurred, leading to serious injuries to both women.

"Both have been shifted to hospital where attending doctors described their condition as critical. The nature of the blast is being investigated," a police source said.

The duo has been identified as Sara Begum, wife of Ghulam Ahmad Rather, and 19-year-old daughter Gulnaza Banu. Both were immediately rushed to a local hospital where the girl succumbed to her wounds. The woman has been shifted in critical condition for specialized treatment.

A police officer said that the duo had brought 'longdi vegetables' from the nearby forest on Wednesday. Apparently, they had brought a dead shell from the jungle. On Thursday, when they opened the vegetable bag at home, a blast occurred resulting in injuries to both of them.

A case has been registered at the local police station and an investigation is underway.

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 20:18:16|Editor: huaxia

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BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Brunei reported one imported case of COVID-19 on Thursday, bringing the national tally to 241.

According to Brunei's Ministry of Health, the patient is a 43-year-old man who arrived in the country from Manila, the Philippines, on Monday. The infection had undergone a swab test the day he arrived, and the result was positive.

Further tests conducted on Wednesday showed that the infection is an old transmission and it is very likely to be infected before arriving in Brunei. Therefore, this case is identified as an old infection that is not contagious, and the patient is also classified as an imported case.

The health ministry said the new case is being treated and monitored at the National Isolation Center with the other eight active cases, who are all in stable condition.

With the detection of this case, a total of 100 imported cases have been confirmed since the last local infection case on May 6, 2020. Brunei has recorded 386 days without local COVID-19 infection cases.

There have been three deaths and 229 recovered patients reported from COVID-19 in Brunei. Enditem
NEW DELHI: Baba Ramdev, who is in caught in a firestorm over his controversial remarks allegedly defaming allopathy and scientific medicines, has now said that no one can arrest him.

A new video of the yoga guru surfaced on Wednesday in which he can be seen saying that no one has the courage to arrest him after Indian Medical Association (IMA) called for his arrest on sedition charges for his remarks that allopathy is stupid science.

One such video was shared by Congress leader Gaurav Pandhi on Twitter in which he tagged PM Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah wondering if any action will be taken against him.

Ramdev challenges Modi Govt into arresting him, says "UNKA BAAP BHI ARREST NAHI KAR SAKTA" Over to you, @narendramodi @AmitShah !! pic.twitter.com/73qd8AVLZE  Gaurav Pandhi (@GauravPandhi) May 25, 2021

No one can arrest Ramdev. They are just making noises. Let them do what they do best, the yoga guru can be heard saying in the video.

It may be noted that Indian Medical Association (IMA) has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to take action to stop the alleged misinformation campaign by Baba Ramdev.

The IMA appealed to the Prime Minister to book the owner of Patanjali products on sedition charges for spreading fear against Covid vaccination. IMA also lauded the Prime Minister for his effort to address the importance of vaccination in all public addresses. The apex body of Indian doctors appealed to Prime Minister Modi to give motivation for vaccination in the forthcoming "Mann Ki Baat" episodes.

"At this juncture, we are pained to bring to your kind notice, two videos where Ramdev, owner of Patanjali Ayurved, is seen inter alia to be claiming that 10,000 doctors have died in spite of taking both the dose of vaccine and that lakhs of people have died due to allopathic medicine.

He has also claimed that `Allopathy Ek stupid Aur Diwaliya Science Hai` and that thousands of people have died from taking allopathic medicines for the treatment of COVID-19 related symptoms. These videos are circulating virally on social media," IMA claimed.

IMA said its members follow the guidelines and protocols issued by the Ministry of Health through ICMR or the National task force in our treatment offered to millions of people coming to our hospitals.

If someone is claiming that allopathic medicine has killed people, it is challenging the Ministry which has issued the protocol for treatment to us as well as the office of the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) and Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) which have approved the said allopathic drugs for treating/helping COVID19 patients.

IMA, the professional organization of Modern Medicine Doctors has time and again stated that it respects, acknowledges and compliments all systems of medicine especially our Indian system of Ayurvedic Medicine, as each system is helping our people differently.

"We are not against any medicine promoted by the Ministry and happy to share the drugs promoted by the AYUSH ministry in most of our public health treatment centres. We opposed certain drugs which were being falsely promoted as curative drugs, without any approval from the Ministry/competent authorities. Ministry of AYUSH had also issued a press release to Patanjali to stop advertising / claiming its drug Coronil as a `cure` for Coronavirus," IMA said.

IMA informed that in the war against the COVID-19 pandemic, modern medicine doctors have been fighting on the front lines, putting their own lives at risk for treating COVID-19 patients including very critical patients.

The country has lost 753 doctors in the first wave and 513 in the second wave. None in the first wave could receive the vaccine and the majority who had died in the second wave also could not take their vaccine for various reasons.

IMA alleged that people like Baba Ramdev by making false statements are spreading rumours and creating hesitations or superstitions in the minds of the common man thereby discouraging them from getting vaccinated.

"We appeal to you to take appropriate action against all individuals including Ramdev who are spreading rumours and superstitions for their own vested interests, and are viciously propagating the message of fear of vaccination and challenging the Government of India`s protocols for treatment," it added.

IMA further alleged Baba Ramdev`s only objective is achieved is to make profits and gains at the expense of the lives of millions of people. Further, by spreading disbelief andrumours about the coronavirus vaccines and as a result, the vaccination campaign of the Government of India, Baba Ramdev is not only causing disaffection towards Government but is also committing acts that have disturbed and are likely to further disturb public tranquillity.

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) on Saturday sent a legal notice to yoga guru Baba Ramdev over his alleged statements against allopathy and "defaming" scientific medicine.

However, the Patanjali Yogpeeth Trust has denied allegations by the IMA that Ramdev has misled people by making "unlearned" statements against allopathy and defamed scientific medicine. According to a Haridwar-based Patanjali Yogpeeth Trust statement, Yog Guru Ramdev was reading out a WhatsApp forwarded message in the video that has gone viral on social media.

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New Delhi: Fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksis lawyer has denied the possibility of his client being directly deported to India.

Legally, as per Section 17 and 23 of the Immigration and Passport Act, Mehul Choksi can only be deported to Antigua, Advocate Vijay Aggarwal, Counsel for Choksi told ANI.

"As per the Indian Citizenship Act, Section 9, the moment Mehul Choksi acquired the citizenship of Antigua, he ceased to be a Citizen of India. Hence, legally, as per Immigration and Passport Act Section 17 and 23, he can be deported only to Antigua, Aggarwal added.

Further, Choksis counsel reiterated there is no question of the diamantaires repatriation directly to India, adding that he does not think Choksi reaching Dominica was "voluntary".

"Moreover, as there is Antiguan High Court order restraining processing any request from India, my understanding is that he has to be sent back to Antigua only and there is no question of him being sent to India. There should be no speculation till one finds out from Mehul Choksi how he landed up in Dominica. My understanding is that his reaching Dominica is not voluntary, Aggarwal stated.

His lawyer said that no one was paying attention to how Chokshi reached Dominica which Aggarwal said he finds fishy. It has to be done legally, Choksi`s lawyer said.

He asserted that Choksi can only be deported to Antigua where he has legal citizenship. "We are dealing with a human being. Not a pawn that can be placed here or there and it cannot be on somebody`s desires and whims. Further, as per universal declaration of human rights there are international covenants on voluntary repatriation and a person can be deported to only the country of their citizenship," Aggarwal was quoted as saying by the news agency.

In an exclusive interview with WION on Wednesday (May 26), Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne had said that Mehul Choksi could be sent back to India in the next 48 hours from Dominica where he was captured while trying to flee.

PM Browne said, "Assuming no legal impediments, I believe within the next 48 hours Choksi could be perhaps in a private jet, you know, repatriated to India."

Choksi is wanted in India in connection with the Rs 13,5000-crore Punjab National Bank loan fraud case.

(With ANI inputs)

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Chennai: The comments made by Tamil Nadus Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Board Minister, PK Sekar Babu, have sparked controversy. At an event, where the Mahavir International Chennai Metro Foodbank was to be inaugurated, the minister made a political speech that the DMK would work for the Hindi-speakers (North Indians), despite them having voted for the BJP in large numbers.

Sekar Babu won against BJP Youth Wing state president Vinoj P Selvam in North Chennais Harbour Constituency, which has a large share of communities from Gujarat, Rajasthan etc, who have been living there for many generations.

Starting off his speech by lauding the food donation as the highest form of charity, he assured that their party (DMK) would take part in the charitable events of the community and support them, despite them not having voted for the Dravidian party.

I have been living in this region for almost 40 years, today the situation has changed a lot and many North Indian friends have seen economic progress, this is because of Dravidian parties in Tamil Nadu. The BJP is not the cause for your well-being, increased standard of living, or economic development, it is the Dravidian parties, said the minister, adding that, despite all this, the North Indian Community has always been voting for the BJP out of some fascination.

It must be noted that the Dravidian parties- DMK and AIADMK, have been in power in Tamil Nadu since 1967, following the defeat of the then Congress government.

Our DMK Member of Parliament Dayanidhi Maran asks why do we have to work for them (North Indians) when they dont vote for us, to which I say, even they belong to this land. The MLAs and Chief Minister are common representatives, irrespective of whether some people voted for them or not. It is in that spirit that we are working for you, Sekar Babu said.

He further goes on to say that the North Indian community vote bank did not cast their votes for the DMK in Assembly and Parliamentary polls that took place in the years 2014, 2016, 2019, and 2021. He claims that the DMK hardly got any votes in the region where North Indians lived in large numbers, despite the party having worked for the community.

In the 2021 Assembly polls, he said that in the areas where North Indians lived, DMK secured only 50 votes, whereas the BJP secured 300-350 votes. Whenever we meet you, you say that you voted for us. But these are not ballot paper times, EVM data clearly points out which area voted for whom. You did not vote for the MLA and MP who worked for you, but how much ever you reject us, we wont reject you. DMK is there to work for you, he said.

Reacting to the DMK ministers comments, the BJP said that such comments are blatant threats against BJP voters. The statement also condemned the manner in which DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran raised questions (as quoted by Sekar Babu) about serving people who didnt vote for the DMK.

Dayanidhi Maran must clarify whether he had spoken that way, it is the height of atrocity that a Member of Parliament has said something so narrow-minded and divisive," the BJP said.

It is highly condemnable that Ministers who take an oath by the Constitution and represent all the people chose to refer to a section of their constituency as North Indians. By pointing out the voter's choice of preferring the BJP, is like questioning the voters democratic right and a blatant threat from those in power, read the statement from BJP Spokesperson Narayanan Thirupathy.

Meanwhile, the BJP demanded an apology from Sekar Babu and requested Chief Minister MK Stalin to condemn the ministers remarks.

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New Delhi: American pharmaceutical giant Pfizer has informed the Central government that its COVID-19 vaccine is suitable for all aged 12 and above and can be stored at 2-8 degrees for over a month.

Pfizer officials and the government also discussed the indemnity protection against liabilities and asked for relaxation in some clauses before the company brings its COVID-19 vaccines to India, the sources said.

Ready to send 50 million vaccine doses to India

US pharmaceutical giant Pfizer has said that is likely to supply 50 million COVID-19 vaccines to India in 2021, albeit with a few conditions. However, the US drugmaker has asked for relaxations in some clauses, including indemnification for its shots, sources informed.

Meanwhile, Moderna, another pharmaceutical giant in the US, sources said is expecting to start manufacturing its COVID-19 vaccines in India following analysis with Cipla, a pharmaceutical company based in Mumbai, among other Indian firms.

Earlier, both drugmakers had allegedly refused to send vaccines directly to the state governments of Delhi and Punjab, claiming that they will only deal with the Central government.

"We have spoken to Pfizer and Moderna for vaccines, and both the companies have refused to sell vaccines directly to us. They have said that they will deal with the Government of India alone," Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had said on Monday.

India is moving towards vaccine sufficiency as inoculations with the Russian vaccine Sputnik V began in the country earlier this month. Sources said that India and Russia are planning to manufacture around 35-40 million doses every month that will start from August or September.

Before the transfer of technology in August for local production, Russia will send close to 18 million Sputnik V doses to India - 3 million in May, 5 million in June and 10 million in July said sources.

.On May 24, the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) and Panacea Biotec, one of the leading pharmaceutical producers in India, had launched the production of the Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine.

Other sites of production of the Sputnik V vaccines are - Hetero Biologics, Virchow Biotech, Gland Pharma, Stelis Biopharma and Shilpa Medicare. India has also been using two vaccines - Covishield by the Serum Institute of India (SII) and Covaxin by the Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech.

According to the sources, India is expected to produce approximately 20-25 crore vaccines per month. Sources informed that two next-generation vaccines will also be made in India.

One is the DNA vaccine by Cadila Zydus and the other is an mRNA vaccine by Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. Both vaccines have shown promise and are expected to reduce international dependence for the supply of doses.

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New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi took stock of the impact of Cyclone Yaas in the affected areas of West Bengal and Odisha.

PM Modi will visit West Bengal and Odisha on Friday and will also chair review meetings in the two states to assess the impact of the storm, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said in a statement. He will also undertake an aerial survey of the affected areas in the two states, it said.

Reviewed the situation arising due to Cyclone Yaas. Discussed the preparedness, relief and rehabilitation efforts as well as other aspects. https://t.co/fkxtVZuGQw  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 27, 2021

In a meeting chaired by the PM on Thursday, he directed the central and states agencies to ensure that normal life is restored in the affected areas at the earliest, the PMO said.

The officials made a detailed presentation on various aspects of preparedness, assessment of damage and related matters.

Nearly 106 teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were deployed with 46 teams each in West Bengal and Odisha that rescued more than 1,000 people and removed more than 2,500 trees and poles that had fallen and obstructed roads, the PMO said.

Defence forces, namely the Army and the Coast Guard, also rescued marooned people, while the Navy and Air Force were on the alert, the statement read.

On Wednesday, Cyclone Yaas barreled though coastal regions of West Bengal and Odisha killing at least four people and forcing more than 21 lakh people to be evacuated to safe shelters.

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New Delhi: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday (May 27) launched an online portal called Services e-Health Assistance & Tele-consultation or SeHAT OPD which will provide health services to armed forces personnel, veterans and their families.

The services can be availed by registering on sehatopd.in.

Singh said the 'SeHAT OPD' portal reflected the government's commitment to 'Digital India' and 'e-governance'.

This is a very important step taken at a very critical time for the health of service personnel, Singh said as he launched the portal via video conferencing.

Singh said the online outpatient platform will ensure widespread access to quality health services in remote areas besides reducing the load on the hospitals.

The trial version of the platform was made functional in August last year and over 6,500 medical consultations have been already carried out through it.

The defence minister hailed the role played by DRDO in fighting the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This wave of COVID is unprecedented and more dangerous than earlier. But Defence Ministry has rendered its services in the second wave too. DRDO has set up COVID hospitals and Oxygen generation plants in Delhi, Lucknow, Varanasi and many other parts of the country, Singh said.

With help of Hyderabad-based Dr Reddy's Lab, DRDO has produced essential medicine 2-DG. It's yielding positive results. I've been receiving information from many stats that they want 2-DG. I'm delighted to say that its 10,000 sachets are coming to market today, he added.
PATNA: Bihar BJP president Sanjay Jaiswal has severely criticised Baba Ramdev for his recent tirade against the allopathic system of medicine and dubbed the famed Yoga teacher as one who had popularized the ancient discipline like "Coco-Cola" but lacked the gravitas of a Yogi.

Sanjay Jaiswal, a multiple-term MP from Pashchim Champaran and a qualified medical practitioner himself, also urged the Indian Medical Association from steering clear of the spat, saying it was tantamount to frittering away of energies.

"Ramdev is a Yoga guru. Nobody can question his mastery of Yoga. But he is certainly not a Yogi. A Yogi is one who has all his senses and faculties firmly under control", Jaiswal said in a Facebook post.

What he has done for Yoga is comparable to what Coco-Cola did for beverages. Indians have been, for ages, consuming 'Shikanji and thandai' but after the advent of the soft drink giant every home seems to be stocked with bottles of Pepsi and Coke", Jaiswal remarked.

He, however, urged the IMA not to join the issue with the maverick Yoga guru and said "we must not fritter away our energies over trivia and concentrate on our noble profession. "It would be a disservice service to our innumerable colleagues who have lost their lives attending to their duties in the midst of the COVID 19 pandemic," the BJL leader said.

Ramdev has been in the eye of a storm over a recently released video clip in which he questioned the efficacy of allopathic medicines in treating the dreaded coronavirus.

The Yoga guru also heads the Patanjali group which is the manufacturer of several products, Ayurvedic medicines and, had courted controversy following the launch, last year, of a concoction of herbs that supposedly builds immunity against COVID 19. The claim has met with disapproval from World Health Organization as well as the IMA.

Moreover, the Indian Medical Association has been up in arms against Ramdev over his recent diatribe and its Uttarkhand chapter has slapped the Yoga guru with a hefty defamation suit.

Jaiswal, however, also sought to underscore that Ayurveda, as a system of medicine, was widely respected. He shared a picture of the legendary Sushruta, called "the father of Indian surgery", installed at the medical college affiliated to Melbourne University, and remarked that I went to this world-renowned center of learning seven years ago.

"In the symposium that I attended, I was asked questions that were about Ayurveda and not the stream in which I hold a post-graduate degree".

He, however, asserted that every system of medicine "has its own limitations" which held true for Yoga, a sophisticated form of physiotherapy which can help us ward off illnesses but can create problems if we take to it to cure existing ailments".
Dew Delhi: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)s senior leader and MLA Atishi presented the vaccination bulletin through a video address on Wednesday and stated that on the third day in Delhi, the vaccination of youth remains absolutely closed in government schools due to no vaccines being facilitated by the centre. Vaccination of youth of 18 to 44 years is now being done only in private hospitals, a dose of vaccine is being priced in private between Rs 800 to 1350.

On Tuesday, 43,824 vaccine doses were administered in Delhi for the whole day, out of which nearly 33000 people have been given the first and 10,000 people have been given the second dose. Covaxin is completely out of stock for those above 45 years of age in Delhi, Covishield stock is available for 12 days. We would like to again appeal to the Central government to immediately approve and import other vaccines in India including Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson so that the youth can get the vaccine as soon as possible.

Atishi said, Yesterday, on May 25, 43,824 vaccines were administered. Out of this, nearly 33,320 were first doses, and about 10,504 were inoculated with their second dose. The repeated decline in numbers has been due to the shortage of vaccines, and the fact that for those between 18-44, the entire vaccination programme has been temporarily halted. Moreover, around 7 days back, the numbers were as high as 1,20,000-1,40,000."

"This is the third day of no vaccination for youth between 18-44 in any of the government schools of Delhi. For 45+ age group, Covaxin is completely ended. The few vaccines that were left in the past few days were being used for inoculation of the second dose. However, even that has ended now. We had made arrangements for vaccinating around 3 lakh people a day and we had that capacity. This is because we have been unable to receive any vaccines from the centre. For the 45+ category, the vaccines are supplied directly from the centre, and for that Covaxin is not being delivered," she added.

"For the youth, the states can purchase from the manufacturers, but the schedule is designated by the central government only, which has refused to supply any new vaccines at the earliest. The only vaccination that is happening is in private hospitals, at the expense of going to hospitals and contracting the virus, and even more so, at expensive rates. One vaccine dose costs between Rs 800-1300. A lot of young people in Delhi cannot afford vaccines at such high costs. This is the reason behind the decline in vaccination numbers per day," the senior AAP leader said.

Citing the stock position, Atishi further said, For the 45 plus category, 2,98,540 doses are left, and nearly 2,92,630 are of Covishield, and 5910 are of Covaxin. Hence Covishield is available for 12 days, and Covaxin is nearly finished. Not only is it impossible to get Covaxin, but it is also becoming difficult for those who have already taken the first dose, who cannot get vaccinated with the second one. They don't even know when they can get it, and the first dose will end up becoming ineffective.

A lot of vaccines are available in the international market which has not been approved by the centre yet but is approved by the WHO. Today, all across the world, countries are administering vaccines like Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. Even the World Health Organisation (WHO) has approved them, but the centre hasnt done that yet. The centre must approve these vaccines at the earliest, do the large-scale import of them in the nation, and allow an increase in the manufacturing capacity of vaccines in India as well. They must supply these to all the states as soon as possible, including Delhi, as it is the only way to protect ourselves from the third wave, Atishi lastly added.
New Delhi: Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has said that in order to defeat COVID, all states, UTs, and the Central government should work as Team India. He assured the Prime Minister that all Chief Ministers are ready to take any responsibility, but the Central government should fulfill its responsibilities as states cannot fulfill those responsibilities.

He added that the central government has put its responsibility of buying vaccines on states, yet not a single state had been successful in buying vaccines. CM Kejriwal said that in this war against COVID-19, the Centre cannot abdicate its responsibilities and leave behind individual state governments. He said that the central government is responsible for purchasing and supplying vaccines.

Kejriwal said that as a country, India cannot lose this war against COVID; if the Central Government fails it is not BJPs failure, but Indias failure, and similarly if the Delhi government fails, it is not AAPs failure, but Indias failure.

CM Kejriwal said, Vaccines for those between 18-44 have gotten over in Delhi. For the past four days, vaccination centres for the young have been shut. Covaxin for the elderly has also gotten over. While weve written to the Central Government, the vaccines have not yet arrived. This is not just the case with Delhi but across the country. In a pandemic situation, we should ideally be opening new centres every day, but thats not happening. Were facing an acute shortage of vaccines in the country, and I think in the past few months certain huge mistakes have been committed. If the people in India had been vaccinated at the right time, then possibly the effect of the second wave could have been reduced, several lives could have been saved, several homes could have been saved from destruction.

The Delhi CM said, The second wave has proved to be extremely deadly for the country. Barely a single family has remained untouched by COVID. India got delayed by six months. Six months ago, many countries across the world had already begun vaccinating their people on a mass scale. We made a huge mistake at that time. Instead of vaccinating our own citizens, we began exporting vaccines to other nations.

According to him, The scientists of India made the worlds first vaccine. We should have started producing vaccines on a war footing right then, and begun vaccinating our citizens on a mass scale. Had we vaccinated the country at that time, we might have been saved from the wrath of the second wave. We cannot correct now whatever wrong has been done. Im particularly saddened by the fact that were still not operating with a level of urgency. The second wave started in March, and we shouldve had vaccines from all over the world and should have administered them to the people, but at that time all states were told that they should look out for themselves, make arrangements for themselves, and states worked towards procuring vaccines.

He further said, Ive been in touch with Chief Ministers of several states, and none of them has left any stone unturned to procure vaccines. In the last two months, every state has been working towards arranging vaccines. From what Ive learnt, not a single state has been able to arrange for even one extra dose of vaccine, leave alone the vaccines given by the Central Government. Apart from those, no state has been able to arrange vaccines for even a single dose from a single company, all of whom have clearly stated that they will not communicate with the state governments but will deal directly with the Centre."

"Many state governments issued global tenders and failed. Why is the country not buying vaccines? Currently, India is battling the COVID pandemic, and in such a situation, state governments cannot be asked to look out for themselves. If tomorrow , Pakistan declares war on India, states cannot be asked to look out for themselves  UP should buy its own tanks and Delhi should buy its own weapons, CM Kejriwal said.

He said, India cannot lose this war at any cost, and no government can lose this war. If the Central Government loses, the Bharatiya Janata Party will not lose, India will lose. If the Delhi Government loses, the Aam Aadmi Party will not lose, India will. If the Maharashtra Government loses, the Shiv Sena would not lose, India will. This is the time for India to work harmoniously and not engage in competition with different state governments. This is the time when the governments of 36 states and Union Territories, along with the Central government should work together as Team India.

Kejriwal said, Id like to assure the Prime Minister that all the Chief Ministers -- rising above petty party politics -- are working along with you like soldiers of the nation. You give us the responsibility, and we will fulfill all of them, but how can we execute the work that is not ours to do? The Central government has to execute its own work. You procure the needed vaccines and distribute them to each state -- administering them is our duty, which we will fulfil. The country has lost six months. If we delay it any further then no one knows how many more homes will be destroyed and how many more lives will be lost. To defeat COVID-19, we need to work together as Team India.
NEW DELHI: The Sagar Dhankar murder case involving two-time Olympic medal winner Sushil Kumar has put the spotlight back on notorious gangster Sandeep Kala aka Kala Jatheri.

According to the confession made by the wrestler Sushil Kumar to the police after his arrest, he was on the run to save himself from Kala Jatheri who has threatened him with dire consequences.

For the unversed, Sushil Kumar and his close aides had recently kidnapped and brutally thrashed a former junior national wrestling champion Sagar Dhankar with whom he had a bitter dispute over a rented property.

During a brawl at the Chhatrasal Stadium, Sagar Dhankar and one of his close friends Somu Mahal was badly beaten up by Sushil Kumar. Sagar Dhankar sustained serious head injuries and later died at the hospital. Sagar's friend Sonu Mahal, who is believed to the nephew of gangster Kala Jatheri, sustained serious injuries but survived. He has many cases registered against him.

After getting to know about the incident, gangster Kala Jatheri threatened Sushil Kumar, forcing him to go underground for several days.

Who is Kala Jatheri?

According to Delhi Police, Kala Jatheri is a notorious criminal and a close confidant of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. Kala Jatheri, who is believed to have fled the country, operates the Bishnoi gang and has influence in parts of Rajasthan, Haryana and Delhi.

While Bishnoi is lodged in Rajasthans Ajmer jail, Jatheri had managed to escape from Haryana Polices custody following a gunfight last year.

Entry into the world of crime

Sandeep alias Kala Jatheri hails from Sonipat in Haryana. After passing the class 12 exam, he took up the job of a cable operator for some time. In June 2009, he committed his first murder during a robbery in Rohtak. After this, he committed another murder in Sonepats Gohana in March 2010 over an old enmity with the victim.

Rs 7 lakh reward on Kala Jatheri

He carries a Rs 7 lakh reward on his head and is wanted in several cases of murder, kidnapping and extortion. With the help of his henchmen and sharpshooters, Sandeep Kala controls the Bishnoi gangs operations in Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Punjab and Uttarakhand.

After escaping from Haryana Police's custody in February last year, Kala Jatheri had been working to expand his network in Delhi and its adjoining states. As some most wanted criminals were arrested in the past one year, many criminals from the neighbouring states, including Bishnoi and Neeraj Bawana, Jatheri has been trying hard to capture the void in Delhis crime world.

Jatheri is closely assisted by one Kala Rana, who is from Bishnois gang and is suspected to be hiding in a southeast Asian country.

Involvement in murder, kidnapping, extortion cases in 4 states

The Kala Jatheri gang was involved in the murder of three rival gang members in Gurugram in August last year. In a case of mistaken identity in February this year, the gang had allegedly killed two men in Rohtak. The gang also committed contract killings on the directions of Bishnoi and his Canada-based aide Goldy Brar, according to Delhi Police.

The Kala Jatheri gang has been involved in at least half a dozen firings for extortion cases reported in southwest Delhi last year.

Lawrence Bishnoi

Kala Jatheri's boss Lawrence Bishnoi hails from Ferozpur and is currently lodged in Ajmer jail, along with his associate Sampat Nehra. They had allegedly issued a death threat to Bollywood star Salman Khan in 2018 over the blackbuck case.

Bishnoi, former president of the Student Organisation of Panjab University (SOPU), has over 20 cases registered against him, including attempt to murder, extortion, snatching, carjacking, and other cases under the Arms Act.

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 22:10:30|Editor: huaxia

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KABUL, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Two people were wounded in a roadside bomb blast, targeting a provincial governor's vehicle in Afghanistan's eastern Nangarhar province on Thursday, the local government confirmed.

An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) was detonated when vehicle of Mohammad Iqbal Sayyed, governor of neighboring Kunar province, was passing a road in Nangarhar's Behsud district at the afternoon, the government said in a statement.

Two protectors of Sayyed aboard the vehicle were wounded, and the governor escaped the blast and remained safe, the statement said.

Earlier on Thursday morning, the Afghan army found and defused two rockets on the top of a mountain in Paghman district in the western of Afghanistan's capital city Kabul, foiling rocket attacks on the capital, the Defense Ministry confirmed.

Besides, the army recovered and defused 15 IEDs along district roads in Khwaja Omari district, eastern Ghazni province on Wednesday, the ministry said in a statement.

Militants in Afghanistan have been using home-made IEDs to make roadside bombs and landmines to target security forces, but the lethal weapons also inflict casualties on civilians. Enditem
NEW DELHI: Amid the second wave of the devastating coronavirus, thousands of people across the world have died and battling for their lives due to an acute shortage of medical oxygen.

Oxygen shortages have been reported in all major countries across the world and it has contributed to a large number of COVID-related fatalities in these countries, including India. According to the Bureau of Investigative Journalism, there are at least 30 countries that currently need twice as much oxygen as they did in March. This list includes Fiji, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Cambodia, Mongolia, Angola and Kyrgyzstan.

What has led to the oxygen crisis in India?

In India, the problem has risen to catastrophic proportions with COVID-19 patients in hospitals dying because of its unavailability. Besides the surge in COVID cases, its inadequate production, storage, transportation, and supply and distribution gap have further aggravated the problem, putting the enormous press on the countrys health system. Though the Centre has taken adequate steps to address the issue, it has been largely blamed for the oxygen shortage crisis. Though the Centre has been monitoring the situation for over a year now, the crisis is yet to be resolved fully.

According to an estimate, India needed an extra 15.5m cubic meters of oxygen a day just for Covid-19 patients, more than 14 times what it needed in March, by the middle of May.

Several nations including the United States, the UK, Canada, Australia, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates etc have come forward and offered a large number of oxygen tankers, oxygen concentrators, cryogenic tankers to help India deal with the crisis.

While oxygen is crucial for life to sustain on planet Earth, it just constitutes 21% of the atmosphere. In its purer form, oxygen is required for a number of applications  industrial and medical uses. Medical oxygen makes up for just 1 per cent of global liquid oxygen production. The remaining 99 per cent is used in industries for mining, petrochemicals, aeronautics and water treatment.

Various applications of Oxygen

Industrial application: Oxygen has numerous uses in steelmaking and other metals refining and fabrication processes, in chemicals, pharmaceuticals, petroleum processing, glass and ceramic manufacture, and pulp and paper manufacture. It is used for environmental protection in municipal and industrial effluent treatment plants and facilities.

Common uses of oxygen include production of steel, plastics and textiles, brazing, welding and cutting of steels and other metals, rocket propellant, oxygen therapy, and life support systems in aircraft, submarines, spaceflight and diving.

Medical application: Oxygen purified to 90% finds application in multiple medical situations to improve oxygenation in tissues, assist breathing in patients etc. Oxygen plays a critical role in respiration, the energy-producing chemistry that drives the metabolisms of most living things. We humans, along with many other creatures, need oxygen in the air we breathe to stay alive. Oxygen is generated during photosynthesis by plants and many types of microbes.

Oxygen helps in the oxidation of food in our body, which ultimately gives us energy. Fuels can burn due to oxygen in the atmosphere. We cannot breathe in pure oxygen, as it is harmful to our body cells. Fresh air is essential for us because it contains oxygen and other gases in the correct proportion.

Why LMO is important?

A COVID patient in hospital needs between 14 and 43 cubic meters of oxygen per day for roughly two weeks. Oxygen therapy is also crucial for saving the lives of critical COVID-19 patients with hypoxemia. Some clinical studies have demonstrated that up to a quarter of hospitalised COVID-19 patients require oxygen therapy and for a large number of those in intensive care units, unhindered supply of Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) is crucial. This is why it is important to address the shortage of medical oxygen supply in hospitals across the country, where its depleting stock has become a cause of major concerns and numerous deaths.

Is India producing enough LMO?

According to experts, the country is producing enough oxygen, at just over 7,000 tons a day. Most of this is used for industrial purposes but the same can be diverted for medical purposes. In view of its growing demand, the Centre has directed industries to restrict the use of liquid oxygen, including existing stock, and divert it for medical purposes. This is expected to add around 1,500 tons to the daily supply.

What is the Centre doing?

In view of the unprecedented rise in demand for medical oxygen and fast depleting stock, the Centre has taken a multi-pronged approach to ramping up oxygen availability from abroad. The governments effort also included tapping its embassies in countries from where medical oxygen can be sourced.

To ensure no disruption in its supply, the government has further lifted regulatory curbs and usual delays. While shipping liquid oxygen is not very feasible, Indian diplomats are coordinating with suppliers for oxygen generators, industrial and individual concentrators as well as cryogenic tankers.

The government has banned all exports of liquid and cylinder oxygen. But as the virus spreads across borders, the need for oxygen is growing. As the situation stands, the government needs to boost the production of LMO because too much dependence on imports can be dangerous. The Centre also needs to address the distribution issues and ensure faster movement of LMO consignments so that the help reaches the critical patients on time.

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A photo of two-time Olympic medalist Sushil Kumar, who is currently under Delhi Police's custody for his alleged involvement in the murder of 23-year-old Sagar Rana, is doing rounds on the internet.

In the photo, which is slightly grainy, the prime suspect in the case Sushil along with his associates are seen hitting the victim with sticks.

It is being reported that the visual is from the night of May 4-5, when Sushil along with associates kidnapped the victim and brought him to New Delhi's Chhatrasal Stadium. After which the accused launched a brutal assault on Sagar and his friends, which resulted in the former's death.

In Pics | Sushil Kumar to Michael Phelps, Olympians who ended up on wrong side of law

What do we know so far?

It has been reported that Sushil along with his associates were involved in a deadly brawl with the victim and his friends over a property dispute.

Following the incident, an FIR was lodged against the Olympic champion, who after initially denying his involvment from the crime, went missing.

After an operation to nab the wrestler, which went for almost two weeks, Sushil was finally pinned by the Delhi Police on Sunday morning.

Sushil Kumar won a bronze medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and a silver medal in the 2012 London Olympics.

WATCH VIDEO HERE:

Meanwhile, four associates of the Olympic medallist were arrested by the police on Tuesday night. The accused have been identified as Bhupender (38), Mohit (22), Gulab (24), residents of Haryana's Jhajjar district and Manjeet (29), a native of Rohtak district, the police said.

The arrested are active members of the Kala Asauda and Neeraj Bawana gangs and were nabbed from Delhi's Kanjhawala area. The arrests were made by the team of Special Staff of Rohini district of the Delhi Police on a tip off.

Sushil has won a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and went on to bag a silver at the 2012 London Olympics.

- with PTI inputs
Since ancient times, diamonds have not only symbolized an otherworldly beauty, they've also portrayed great strength and resilience. These rare gems may look fragile but are built to last, something Diamond Washington certainly has in common with the jewel she is a namesake of.

A name like Diamond Washington takes some living up too, but to date, the social media influencer, also known as 'Dimeracks,' has led a life that sparkles as well as dazzles like the precious gem. And judging by the reception of her new hair-and-beauty product line, it looks likely that the young entrepreneur's star is about to shine even brighter.

"I'm extremely excited to announce my arrival in the hair and beauty industry," explains Washington. "It's a dynamic and creative sector and an area where I feel I have a lot to contribute."

In her own words, Washington has always been "extremely confident," but it wasn't until two years ago that she made the move that transformed her life.

Diamond Washington explains, "I combined my outgoing personality, my natural flirtatiousness, and experience with the camera to carve a career on subscription-based app Only Fans. Fortunately, this was a business that flourished as opposed to failing during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it has made me a very wealthy lady."

With great wealth comes great responsibility, and as an individual who was all too aware of the devastation wreaked on the economy by COVID-19, Washington was adamant about giving something back.

She says, "I believe in working hard, but by the same token, I'm extremely grateful for what I've got and that I'm in a position to provide for my family. Through no fault of their own, I know how many people have had their livelihoods and sources of income destroyed by Covid-19. That's why I'm a big believer in giving something back."

To date, Diamond Washington has donated nearly USD 20,000 to the homeless and single-parent families and is currently working on plans to get a food truck service up and running.

"Entrepreneurship to me is about serving the community and bettering yourself as an individual," reveals Diamond Washington. "That's why I am so excited about my new line of hair and beauty products. I know there'll be a huge demand for what we're offering, and with the profits generated, it'll provide even more opportunity to give something back. It's a win-win situation all around!"

(Disclaimer- Brand desk content)
Mumbai: Actor Sanjay Dutt on Wednesday (May 26) expressed gratitude to the government of UAE on receiving a golden visa for the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

"It's an honour to receive the prestigious Visa. I'm grateful to the government of UAE for their never-ending support considering Dubai became a home for my family in the past year. The Golden Visa initiative by the leaders is truly visionary, it has helped the country grow as an investor-friendly nation and I'm sure it will continue to do so in the coming years. I vow to help the country whenever they are in need since that's what our true purpose as humans is, to help each other grow," Dutt shared.

The 61-year-old actor also shared the news on social media. "Honoured to have received a golden visa for the UAE in the presence of Major General Mohammed Al Marri, Director General of @gdrfadubai. Thanking him along with the @uaegov for the honour. Also grateful to Mr. Hamad Obaidalla, COO of @flydubai for his support," he wrote on Instagram.

Since 2019, UAE has been providing the Golden Visa to foreigners to work, live, study and conduct business without requiring national sponsors. The initiative helps foreign investors and business owners get a complete ownership of their businesses in the country.

This is indeed a feather in the cap of Sanjay as he shares a huge fan base in the Middle East.

On the work front, Sanjay Dutt will next be seen in upcoming films like 'Bhuj: The Pride Of India', 'KGF: Chapter 2', 'Prithviraj' and 'Shamshera'.
New Delhi: Punjab on Thursday extended the coronavirus restrictions in the state till June 10 after a review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, as per a government statement.

The Amarinder Singh-led government had imposed extensive curbs, in addition to measures like a weekend lockdown and a night curfew to check the spread of COVID-19 infection. Earlier, the state government had extended the COVID-19 curbs till May 31.

Though, the limit on the number of passengers in personal vehicles has been removed and the elective surgeries and OPD operations in hospitals has been allowed.

The elective surgeries were stopped on April 12 to ensure adequate availability of beds and medicine oxygen for serious infection cases.

Also, the limit on the number of passengers in personal vehicles is being removed, the limit on commercial passenger vehicles and taxis will continue to be in place.

According to the official statement, the CM directed that the deputy commissioners may make adjustments for the opening of shops dealing in non-essential items as merited by local conditions.

Given the comfortable oxygen situation currently, it will now be allowed to be used for essential non-medical purposes, though, a three-day buffer stock of it to be maintained at all times.

Further, the CM also ordered the creation of more technical and specialist posts to meet the demand of the possible third wave.

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Aarogya Setu app has started marketing blue tick against the names of people who have been partially or fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Taking cues from the WhatsApp mobile application, Aarogya Setu is adding a single tick against the names of people who have taken a single dose of the vaccine. Meanwhile, people who have been fully vaccinated with two doses are getting two blue ticks against their profiles on the app. Fully vaccinated citizens will also get a blue shield along with the double ticks.

Aarogya Setu recently updated Indians about the new feature in its on Twitter. On the microblogging platform, the app said, "Now your Vaccination Status can be updated on Aarogya Setu. Get yourself vaccinated - Get the Double Blue Ticks and Get the Blue Shield."

Using Aarogya Setu, fully vaccinated people might get permissions to travel in the country by displaying the status on the app. Government officials can grant permission to them if they can produce their vaccination certificates.

How to update your vaccination status on Aarogya Setu:

1. Open the Aarogya Setu app.

2. Select the Update your vaccination status option.

3. Log in to the CoWin portal by using your mobile number verified by an OTP.

4. Select your name if you have added more than one person on the CoWin platform.

5. After confirming your name selection, your vaccination status will be updated.

The app may have introduced the feature to fuel the vaccination drive in India. In the US, the American government has tied up with dating apps such as Tinder and Bumble, which reflects whether the users is vaccinated or not on the app.
New Delhi: In the aftermath of police visiting its office, Twitter said that it is concerned by recent events regarding its employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people the company serves.

Twitter had witnessed a police raid on its offices in Delhi and Gurugram early this week related to the alleged Congress toolkit controversy.

Twitter is deeply committed to the people of India. Our service has proven vital for the public conversation and a source of support for people during the pandemic. To keep our service available, we will strive to comply with applicable law in India. But, just as we do around the world, we will continue to be strictly guided by principles of transparency, a commitment to empowering every voice on the service, and protecting freedom of expression and privacy under the rule of law, Twitter said.

Right now, we are concerned by recent events regarding our employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people we serve. We, alongside many in civil society in India and around the world, have concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police in response to enforcement of our global Terms of Service, as well as with core elements of the new IT Rules. We plan to advocate for changes to elements of these regulations that inhibit free, open public conversation. We will continue our constructive dialogue with the Indian Government and believe it is critical to adopt a collaborative approach. It is the collective responsibility of elected officials, industry, and civil society to safeguard the interests of the public, it added.

Meanwhile, on the new IT rules for social media platforms, Twitter has requested the IT Ministry to consider a minimum of three-month extension in order for the company to implement the new intermediary guidelines.
New Delhi: An incident that has left netizens outraged and questioning work ethics in corporate board rooms, a pregnant woman who went into labour was forced to finish the meeting before she could leave for the hospital.

Taking to Twitter, Christine Carrillo shared how her pregnant friend was asked to finished the meeting even though she needed to reach the hospital as soon as possible. In her tweet, Carrillo said, as the woman announced that her water broke the lead investor of a 'well known fund' insisted that the meeting should be completed first, forcing her to do so while on she was in a car enroute the hospital.

Friend's water broke during a board meeting. She says, "I need to go to the hospital my water just broke!" Lead investor from well known fund says, "Ok, but can we finish the meeting first?" She finished the board meeting in the car while en route to the hospital. WTF.  Christine Carrillo (@ChristineCarril) May 21, 2021

Christine wrote, Friends water broke during a board meeting. She says, I need to go to the hospital my water just broke! Lead investor from a well-known fund says, Ok, but can we finish the meeting first? She finished the board meeting in the car while en route to the hospital.

Here's how people reacted:

This crap is not just at board level. My wife had a miscarriage and was on her way to the hospital and I was telling my then boss (a woman in her 30s by the way) that I had to leave and whyher answer was but you wouldnt be much use there  will weld data pipelines for food (@eineBanaleFrage) May 22, 2021

'Disgusting' said one user.

Yooooooo. This is disgusting. We need to call folks out for this crap. People need to know to never take money from this investor  Mac the VC (@MacConwell) May 21, 2021

Another user recounted her labour story at work place.

I worked the entire day I was in labor with my daughter - meetings all day (kept post it notes of how far apart my contractions were) - then went to the hospital an hour after my last meeting to give birth. This happens in the startup world and corporations. Its appalling.  Katica Roy (@katicaroy) May 22, 2021

This user demanded the people in that board room be named and shamed.

We need a detailed list of who was in the mtg. That nobody stood up to him is appalling (as is his contemptible behavior)  Ed Zimmerman (@EdGrapeNutZimm) May 22, 2021

The incident has enraged Twitter with people expresing their disgust at the companys cruel and insensitive behavior towards the woman.
London: Five men have been arrested on suspicion of the attempted murder in connection with the shooting of prominent Black Lives Matter activist Sasha Johnson. Johnson, a 27-year-old mother of three, has been in critical condition in hospital since she was shot in the head at a house party in south London on Sunday (May 23).

A 17-year-old was arrested on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon and possession with the intent to supply class A drugs, CNN reported citing a statement from Metropolitan Police Detective Chief Inspector Richard Leonard on Wednesday (May 26).

Three men aged 18, 19 and 28 were arrested on suspicion of affray (a group fight) and possession with intent to supply class B drugs, while a fifth man, who is 25, was arrested on suspicion of affray and failing to stop for police, the statement read.

"While the investigation remains in its early stages, these arrests show that progress is being made. However, I would continue to appeal to those who may hold information about the events that led to Sasha receiving her horrific injuries, or about those responsible, to do the right thing and come forward and speak to police," CNN quoted Leonard as saying.

He added that all five men remain in custody.`Johnson and her political party the Taking the Initiative Party (TTIP) -- rose to prominence last year after she helped organise a series of protests against institutional racism in the UK in the wake of George Floyd`s murder.

Floyd, a 46-year-old African American man, died on May 25, last year after a police officer placed his knee on Floyd`s neck for eight minutes despite pleas that he could not breathe.

ALSO READ: 31 dead, hundreds missing including 170 children in Congo volcano disaster: UN
Kathamndu: Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday announced to provide 1 million doses of vaccines to Nepal to help in preventing the further spread of the coronavirus. Xi announced the donation during the telephone conversation with Nepal President Bidya Devi Bhandari on Wednesday.

During today's phone conversation with Nepali President Bidya Devi Bhandari, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced that China will provide 1 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines to Nepal under grant assistance, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Nepal said in a tweet.

According to the Nepal Foreign Ministry, the two leaders discussed and exchanged their views on overall bilateral relations including COVID-19 related cooperation.

"While appreciating President Xis public announcement that anti-COVID-19 vaccines should be global public goods, the Right Honourable President Bhandari also thanked China for providing Nepal with eight hundred thousand doses of anti-COVID vaccines earlier. The President of Nepal also requested for the facilitation of the Chinese Government to the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines from China," Nepal Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

The Chinese President expressed full support to Nepal in its fight against COVID-19 and also assured that Nepal will remain a priority of China in vaccine support and cooperation.

Earlier in the day, leaders of various Nepal political parties and Chinas ruling Communist Party (CCP) on Wednesday held a virtual meeting to discuss the combat against COVID-19. Nepali leaders appreciated and thanked the Chinese Government for providing the parties with COVID-19 equipment.

"I express and appreciate to China Foundation for peace and development and for donating COVID prevention material to Nepal CPN-Maoist Centre. Nepals situation of COVID-19 pandemic is precarious due to the rapid rise in cases. There is a lack of oxygen, hospital beds and other COVID-19 prevention material in the market," CPN-Maoist Centre chairperson Puspa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' said during the virtual meeting.

Highlighting the long-standing friendship of Nepal and China, the leader said, "Chinas support is highly significant for improving the living condition of Nepali people. We greatly value the development and humanitarian support from China."

"Similarly, thanking the China Government for continuous support in economic development, Nepali Congress leader Narayan Khadke said, "Our party is committed to One China Policy and is also committed to the concept Nepal would never allow any territory to be used against China. Nepali Congress Party and CPC maintain very close and friendly party to party relation."

Rastriya Prajatantra Party-Democratic Chairperson Pashupati Shamsher Rana, Janata Samajbadi Party leader Upendra Yadav, CPN-UML leader and Deputy Prime Minister Ishwar Pokharel, National Assembly Chairman Ganesh Timilsina and Nepal Mazdoor Kisan Party Chairman Narayan Man Bijukche also participated in the meeting.

The meeting was attended by Foreign Minister Song Tao and Deputy Minister Chen Zhou.

Earlier, the Government of the Peoples Republic of China had announced additional grant assistance of 5 million RMB under which items such as 650 oxygen concentrators, 20,000 oxygen nasal cannulas and 20,000 oxygen face masks will be provided to Nepal by next month.

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 22:47:31|Editor: huaxia

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Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi (R) meets with President of the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly Volkan Bozkir in Islamabad, Pakistan, on May 27, 2021. Bozkir and Qureshi on Thursday stressed the importance of multilateralism and joint efforts to solve regional and global challenges. (Press Information Department/Handout via Xinhua)

ISLAMABAD, May 27 (Xinhua) -- President of the 75th session of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly (UNGA) Volkan Bozkir and Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi here on Thursday stressed the importance of multilateralism and joint efforts to solve regional and global challenges.

Bozkir, who is on a three-day official visit to Pakistan since Wednesday, told a joint press conference that all the international and regional issues can be solved by practicing the policy of multilateralism.

"We can deal with international financial problems and other challenges successfully by joint efforts only," said Bozkir, adding that the UN forum has provided proper solutions to several issues and ready to achieve more successes.

Qureshi said that Pakistan always adopts an approach of multilateralism on regional and international issues and supports the solution of all conflicts under the United Nations.

"Pakistan has been contributing actively to multilateralism and supporting the central role of the United Nations for the realization of shared objectives of maintaining international peace and security, economic and social development, promotion and protection of human rights as enshrined in the purposes and principles of the UN Charter," said Qureshi.

Bozkir also hailed Pakistan's role in the Afghan peace process and said solution of the Afghan issue will not only benefit Afghanistan itself but will also have positive effects on Pakistan and the region as well. Enditem
California: A Sikh man was among eight people killed during the shooting at a rail yard in San Jose, California. However, the details of the victim`s family have not been identified yet, as an official statement.

Santa Clara County officials have released the names of the shooting victims that includes 36-year-old Taptejdeep Singh and said that the details of the heritage of the victim have not been identified yet.

Apart from Taptejdeep Singh, other victims included -- Paul Delacruz Megia (42), Adrian Balleza (29), Jose Dejesus Hernandez Ill (35), Timothy Michael Romo (49), Michael Joseph Rudometkin (40), Abdolvahab Alaghmandan (63) and Lars Kepler Lane(63).

According to The Hill, police said that the shooter also died in the incident.

Deputy Russell Davis, Santa Clara County Sheriff`s Office spokesperson announced that the investigation is "ongoing" and cautioned that "the numbers can change."

He said employees at the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA), the facility where the shooting took place, are among the victims.

The suspected shooter, who died in the incident, was identified as a male employee of the VTA. However, Davis did not provide details on how the alleged shooter died, The Hill reported.

Davis also revealed that authorities received information that there are explosive devices located in the building. He said a bomb squad has been activated and is currently on the scene "trying to clear out every room and every crevice of that building."

The VTA control center is a hub that stores a number of trains along with a maintenance yard, and has an indoor and outdoor area, said the Deputy.

Glenn Hendricks, the chairperson of the VTA Board of Directors, noted at an earlier press conference that the shooting occurred on the VTA light rail yard, and not in the facilities operations control center.

According to the Deputy, multiple reports of shots fired came in at around 6:34 am (local time).

The San Jose Police Department and Santa Clara County Sheriff`s Office tweeted just after 7 am (local time) that officers were on the scene of an active shooting.

Authorities requested people stay away from the area, near Younger Avenue and San Pedro Street.

About an hour later, Mayor Sam Liccardo said on Twitter that the shooter was "no longer a threat," adding that several people were being treated for injuries.His comments came around the same time the Santa Clara County Sheriff`s Office tweeted "Shooter is down," The Hill reported.

ALSO READ: Multiple people killed, injured in shooting at California's San Jose, suspect dead
Washington: Social media giant Facebook has lifted its ban on content claiming about the origins of COVID-19, and theories about its possible lab creation, reports said.

"In light of ongoing investigations into the origin of COVID-19 and in consultation with public health experts, we will no longer remove the claim that COVID-19 is man-made from our apps," The Hill stated quoting a Facebook spokesperson.

The representatives of Facebook also said: "We`re continuing to work with health experts to keep pace with the evolving nature of the pandemic and regularly update our policies as new facts and trends emerge."

This shift in policy comes after months of targeting content that the social media site deemed misinformation regarding the pandemic.

In December, Facebook announced it would be nixing posts that contained false information about the coronavirus vaccines, it reported further.

Posts containing false claims about "safety, efficacy, ingredients or side effects" were added to the list of already banned content, which included more general coronavirus misinformation.

Recently, the theory that coronavirus escaped from a laboratory gained some traction in Washington, resulting in President Joe Biden announcing a ramped-up effort to confirm how the virus originated.

"As part of that report, I have asked for areas of further inquiry that may be required, including specific questions for China," Biden said in a statement.

"I have also asked that this effort include work by our National Labs and other agencies of our government to augment the Intelligence Community`s efforts. And I have asked the Intelligence Community to keep Congress fully apprised of its work."

Meanwhile, the former head of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has said that circumstantial evidence of Covid-19 originating in a lab in China`s Wuhan continues to grow as researchers are yet to prove that the virus jumped from an animal to humans, as per a report in The Hill newspaper.

US former state secretary Mike Pompeo also claimed that every piece of evidence points to a leak of coronavirus from the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV).

He also said that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) must be held "accountable" for it.
New Delhi: At a special session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on Palestine, India has welcomed the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The ceasefire was announced earlier this month after over 10 days of rocket firing and violence from both sides.

India said, We welcome the diplomatic efforts of the international community and regional countries that have resulted in bringing ceasefire between Israel and armed groups in Gaza."

Notably, India did not directly refer to Hamas in its statement but mentioned them as "armed groups".

Egypt played an important role in the ceasefire and was the main channel of communication between Hamas and the West and Israel in bringing the present situation.

The situation escalated after violence in Jerusalem and the possible eviction of Palestinians in the Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan neighbourhood. Over 200 Palestinian died in Gaza and 10 Israelis died in the rocket firing and violence.

The statement called for "all parties to show extreme restraint, desist from actions that aggravate tensions and refrain from any further attempts to unilaterally change the existing status-quo, including in East Jerusalem and its neighbourhoods."

India lost one of its nationals in Israel's Ashkelon in the firing from Gaza by Hamas. Soumya Santhosh, an Indian caregiver died in the rocket attack and is survived by a 9-year-old son and her husband. In a warm gesture, Israeli diplomats were present at the airport when her mortal remains arrived and visited her house in Kerala to pay homage as well.

At the UNHRC statement, India expressed its "concern" over violence in Jerusalem and "indiscriminate rocket firings" from Gaza targeting the civilian population in Israel and "retaliatory air strikes into Gaza" that has caused "immense suffering".

New Delhi called for "dialogue" as it "remains the only viable option that can effectively address the issues confronting the region and its people", underscoring the "need for immediate resumption of dialogue between Israel and Palestine".

India had made the statement at the United Nations Security Council as well on the issue. The Israel-Palestine issue was also discussed at the top UN body, of which India is a non-permanent member for a 2-year term period.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-26 18:15:31|Editor: huaxia

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KIEV, May 26 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky initiated an urgent bill to parliament to increase the number of troops in the armed forces by 11,000, authorities said Tuesday.

The bill aimed to "ensure the functioning of a separate branch of the Armed Forces of Ukraine - the Territorial Defense Forces, as well as the further development of the resistance system," according to a parliament statement citing an explanatory note to the bill.

Zelensky proposed boosting the number of armed forces members to 261,000 people, including 215,000 servicemen. Currently, the country's armed forces do not exceed 250,000, including 204,000 servicemen.

The explanatory note also underlined the move in the context of the ongoing armed conflict in eastern Ukraine, which has taken the lives of some 14,000 people and left as many as 40,000 wounded. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-26 23:21:19|Editor: huaxia

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SOFIA, May 26 (Xinhua) -- Bulgaria's preparations for the 2021 nationwide population and housing census are underway, Sergey Tsvetarsky, president of the National Statistical Institute said on Wednesday.

The census is held every 10 years, and the forthcoming one would be the 18th, Tsvetarsky said at a press conference.

It would last from Sept. 7 to Oct. 3, and for the second time Bulgaria would conduct the census with the help of the Internet in addition to the traditional way of home visits by census officials, Tsvetarsky said.

He forecasted that about 60 percent of the people would count themselves online. At the previous census, the figure was about 42 percent.

The census was originally scheduled to take place from Jan. 22 this year but was postponed due to the severe pandemic wave, he said.

In the 2011 census, the population of Bulgaria numbered 7.36 million, while in 2001 it was 7.93 million. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 16:37:45|Editor: huaxia

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ISTANBUL, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Turkish police on Thursday detained eight foreigners in Turkey's biggest city Istanbul for their suspected ties to the Islamic State, local media reported.

Simultaneous operations were launched at 12 locations to capture those allegedly seeking to carry out terror attacks, the state-run Anadolu agency reported.

The suspects, whose nationalities were not immediately clear, were reportedly involved in conducting activities in the city on behalf of the group.

Many organizational documents and digital materials were also seized during the operations, the agency added.

The Islamic State has conducted a spate of deadly attacks in Turkey since 2015. Turkey's counter-terrorism units in response have been conducting operations against the group's members in the country. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 20:12:46|Editor: huaxia

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Visitors are seen at a scenic spot in Istanbul, Turkey, on May 24, 2021. Turkish leather manufacturers and retailers have had to postpone their hope of offsetting losses until June as Russian tourists, the biggest sources of income, stopped coming to the country. Russia had restricted flights between the two countries until June 1 due to the increasing COVID-19 daily cases in Turkey. (Photo by Osman Orsal/Xinhua)

by Zeynep Cermen

ISTANBUL, May 27 (Xinhua) -- A wide array of high-quality fur pieces and leather products, including jackets, coats, bags, and shoes, were on display on all four floors of a luxury shop in the historical peninsula of Istanbul, one of the hotspot tourist destinations.

During the heyday before the COVID-19 pandemic, this store used to lure some 600 foreign customers per day, with exclusive fashion shows and stylish items to foreign tourists.

"But everything has been suspended for a long time now due to the pandemic," Volkan Osmancelebioglu, manager of Punto Leather and Fur store, told Xinhua.

"We have minimized our expectations, financially and psychologically. The pace of our production, the prices, and the number of our personnel all have diminished."

Turkish leather manufacturers and retailers have had to postpone their hope of offsetting losses until June as Russian tourists, the biggest sources of income, stopped coming to the country.

Russia had restricted flights between the two countries until June 1 due to the increasing COVID-19 daily cases in Turkey.

All eyes are now on Russia. The sector is waiting for the flights to resume soon so as to offset some of their damages.

"We have a loss of 80 percent (sales). Maybe more. We have also lost most of our staff, and the production is significantly slower than ever," Osmancelebioglu added.

According to the Turkish Leather Garments Manufacturers' Association (TDKD), the damage in all the segments of the sector hit 600 million U.S. dollars on a seasonal basis this year due to the lack of tourists.

"If Russian planes do not arrive in Turkey, the losses will soon reach 800 million dollars," Gurkan Gozmen, head of the TDKD, told Xinhua.

According to Gozmen, Turkey's annual leather garment exports amounted to around 240 million dollars in 2019, of which 50 million dollars was earned from transactions with Russian customers.

"We should not lose this market, and this uncertainty should end in June at the latest," he said.

Meanwhile, Punto had to make some discounts of up to 80 percent to avoid losing any potential buyers.

In Osmancelebioglu's view, currently, incoming foreigners are mostly from a low-budget segment, and Punto's teams are doing their best to display affordable products for them.

"They are looking for a leather jacket for a maximum of 200 dollars or a lamb fur coat for 400 dollars. In terms of cost, no product comes out at this price," he said.

Despite all the difficulties, the sector remains hopeful for the future.

"Russian tourists are hungry for shopping, and we are here to welcome them," Osmancelebioglu noted, adding that the COVID-19 inoculation program has been going on and most people in the tourism sector have been vaccinated.

"Hopefully, better days are waiting for us," he added.

Turkey received 45 million tourists in 2019, including over 5 million Russian travelers, generating a total of 34.5 billion dollars in revenue. But in 2020, which was defined as the lost year for the sector, the damages exceeded 70 percent. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-28 06:30:01|Editor: huaxia

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ZAGREB, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Visiting senior Chinese diplomat Yang Jiechi and top officials of the Croatian leadership pledged to deepen bilateral ties and cooperation during their meetings here Thursday.

Yang, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, was received by Croatian President Zoran Milanovic, Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, and Parliament Speaker Gordan Jandrokovic respectively during his one-day official visit to Croatia.

Yang said solidarity and cooperation have been a distinctive feature of China-Croatia relations, which have been maintaining a high-level and all-round development. The two countries have joined hands to fight the COVID-19 epidemic and promote the construction of the "Belt and Road" with a high level of quality.

As China and Croatia celebrate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations next year, Yang said the two countries should take the opportunity to enhance bilateral relations, overcome epidemic disturbance, and deepen cooperation in areas like infrastructure construction, technological innovation, small and medium-sized enterprises, people-to-people exchange and tourism, so as to implement the results of the China-Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) Summit.

The senior Chinese diplomat also expressed hope that Croatia will make new contributions to promoting the healthy and stable development of China-EU relations.

During meetings with Yang, the Croatian leaders said that Croatia-China friendship is as strong as diamond, and the development of relations with China has always been the focus of Croatia's diplomacy.

The two countries have solid political mutual trust, with economic and trade cooperation progressing smoothly and bilateral relations continuously being strengthened amid the epidemic, they said.

Noting that the "Belt and Road" Initiative embodies China's wisdom, the leaders said that the China-CEEC cooperation mechanism has provided strong impetus for deepening bilateral relations.

Croatia adheres to the one-China policy, they said, adding the country is willing to maintain the momentum of close high-level exchanges with China, push forward in-depth development of mutually beneficial cooperation, and play a positive role in promoting the further development of EU-China relations. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-05-27 09:16:47|Editor: huaxia

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WASHINGTON, May 26 (Xinhua) -- U.S. agricultural exports to China are expected to hit a record high of 35 billion U.S. dollars in fiscal year (FY) 2021 that ends on Sept. 30, eclipsing the previous record of 29.6 billion dollars in FY 2014, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) said on Wednesday.

The figure is 3.5 billion dollars higher than the department's previous forecast in February, due to record shipments of soybeans, corn, tree nuts, beef, wheat and poultry products to China, the USDA said in its latest Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade.

"China is forecast to remain the largest market for U.S. agricultural exports in FY 2021, followed by Canada and Mexico," the USDA said.

Overall U.S. agriculture exports in FY 2021 are projected at 164 billion dollars, up 7 billion dollars from the February forecast, according to the USDA.

Key drivers of the surge in exports include a record outlook for China, record export volumes and values for a number of key products, sharply higher commodity prices, and reduced foreign competition, the USDA said.

"U.S. agricultural trade has proven extraordinarily resilient in the face of a global pandemic and economic contraction. This strength is reflected in today's USDA export forecast," U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in a statement.

"It's clear that trade remains a critical engine powering the agricultural economy and the U.S. economy as a whole. Today's estimate shows that our agricultural trading partners are responding to a return to certainty and reliability from the United States," Vilsack said. Enditem
South Boston, VA (24592)

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Overcast. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 76F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph..

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Opiate overdoses linked to poor mental health

The opioid epidemic is taking a deadly toll on people in disproportionate clusters from Cape Cod to San Diego, according to a new study by the University of Cincinnati.

Fatal opiate overdoses are most prevalent among six states: Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, West Virginia, Indiana and Tennessee. But researchers identified 25 hot spots of fatal opioid overdoses nationwide using data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The study demonstrates how both widespread and localized the problem of substance use disorders can be, UC assistant professor and co-author Diego Cuadros said.

Cuadros is director of UC's Health Geography and Disease Modeling Laboratory, which applies geographical information, perspectives and methods to the study of health, disease and health care. As an epidemiologist, he studies the impacts of diseases such as malaria, HIV and COVID-19.

"Not everyone is similarly at risk," Cuadros said. "We wanted to identify characteristics that put people at higher risk of a fatal overdose."

Health interventions for opiates have focused largely on treatments such as the distribution of naloxone and other lifesaving remedies. But Cuadros said prevention could be effective if vulnerable populations can be identified. To that end, researchers found that white males ages 25 to 29 were most at risk of fatal opioid overdose followed by white males ages 30 to 34. The study also identified an increasing risk to black males ages 30 to 34.

The study also found a correlation between fatal overdoses and mental and physical distress using surveys of physically and mentally unhealthy days. Mental distress increases the relative risk of dying from a drug overdose by as much as 39%.

"We saw a strong association with mental health and substance abuse disorders, particularly opiates," Cuadros said. "What's happening now is we're more than a year into a pandemic. Mental health has deteriorated for the entire population, which means we'll see a surge in opiate overdoses."

Researchers are trying to understand why men are more likely than women to suffer a fatal overdose and what it is about the period of life between age 30 and 45 that makes people more susceptible to the epidemic.

"Maybe you have more responsibilities, financial responsibilities or stress at that time. Maybe there are physiological changes or changes in our brain that we don't know yet," Cuadros said.

"This is a complex epidemic. For HIV we have one virus or agent. Same with malaria. Same with COVID-19. It's a virus," Cuadros said. "But with opioids, we have several agents. At the beginning of the epidemic it was heroin. By 2010 it switched to prescription opiates."

Now states are seeing more overdoses from synthetic opioids such as fentanyl.

The study also tracked the migration of overdoses between 2005 and 2017 from Southwest states to the Northeast. Many of the clusters UC identified in the Southwest and Northeast had comparatively higher levels of physical and mental distress.

Co-author Neil MacKinnon, former dean of UC's James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, said the analysis could help health policymakers and clinicians by identifying individual and community-level factors associated with an increased risk of death due to substance use disorder. He is provost now at Augusta University, Georgia.

"We hope the risk factors we identified in this analysis will be used by agencies like RecoveryOhio to plan proactive strategies and allocate resources to address this epidemic," MacKinnon said.

Previously, UC researchers identified 12 regions in Ohio that had disproportionately high rates of fatal overdoses from opioids.

"We started in Ohio. We know that in this state we're suffering one of the highest burdens of the problem," Cuadros said.

Likewise, he said it would be worthwhile to study populations in the United States where opioids are not exacting a horrible toll on families to understand the problem.

"Sometimes we focus too much on where the problem is focused. It's useful to look at the areas where the problem is not as pressing," Cuadros said.

###

This story has been published on: 2021-05-27. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
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Woburn, MA (01801)

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Mayor's Office Press Release

Houston Celebrates Africa with a Series of Events in Observance of Africa Day 2021

May 25, 2021 -- The City of Houston will mark its 4th annual Houston Africa Day celebration on May 27 by hosting the African Union Ambassador to the United States, Her Excellency Ambassador Hilda Suka-Mafudze, and 13 Ambassadors from African nations to Houston.

Africa Day, also known as African Unity Day, is celebrated annually on May 25. It commemorates the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), the precursor to the African Union (AU), on this day in 1963.

Houston Africa Day, held annually by Mayor Sylvester Turner, showcases the diversity of the nation's 4th most populous city and its global presence. People from all backgrounds are welcome to join in the celebration with the African community to commemorate the business and cultural contributions of the African diaspora in Houston.

The day will begin with an invitation-only business forum. Houston is Africas 3rd largest trade partner and speakers will discuss opportunities for future business.

During the evening celebration, Houston will showcase the different regions of the continent through arts, culture, and 'A taste of Africa,' keeping with the African Union 2021 Africa Day theme: Arts, Culture and Heritage: Levers for Building the Africa we Want.

"Houston Africa Day is a way to celebrate business and trade opportunities along with the vibrant art, culture, and food of our African diaspora in Houston," said Mayor Turner. "Houston takes great pride in our rich diversity, and Africa day is a chance to showcase Houston's ties to the African continent."

In addition to the cultural celebration, the Mayor's Office of Trade and International Affairs will host the inaugural Houston Africa Day Business Forum for Houston's top business leaders and stakeholders interested in doing business in Africa.

This half-day forum will engage business executives with African leaders and discuss the tremendous opportunities and potential on the continent. "The opportunities in Africa in the areas of health care, agriculture, manufacturing, and energy are a great match for sectors in which Houston companies are global leaders," notes MOTIA Director Chris Olson.

Confirmed guests include the Ambassadors of Angola, Burkina-Faso, Cameroon, Cote d'Ivoire, Guinea, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Mali, Niger, South Sudan, Togo, and Uganda.

"As Africa grows, Houston will ensure that our relationship with this rich and diverse continent will continue to flourish as well. Africa Day is one of our ways to showcase this relationship," said Houston's Global Trade Manager for Africa, Mazda Denon.

The events will have limited in-person attendance due to COVID-19 protocols and security.

For those interested in joining, the event will be live streamed via the Mayor's Office of Trade and International Affairs social media platforms:

Facebook

Twitter

LinkedIn

Houston Africa Day Business Forum begins at 9 a.m., followed by Africa Day Reception at 5 p.m.

Houston Africa Day is made possible through the support of our partners: Houston First, Chevron, Wazobia African Market, Office of Business Opportunity, Houston Airport System, Zoa's Moroccan Restaurant, Peli Peli South African Kitchen, Lucy's Ethiopian Restaurant and Who's Who: The African Diaspora.
by Melani Manel Perera

Buddhist leaders urge the faithful to stay away from temple, celebrate at home, and follow health guidelines. Archbishop Ranjith of Colombo and Sri Lankan President Rajapaksa express their wishes to the faithful. Since the pandemic started, some 172,000 coronavirus cases have been reported in the country with 1,269 deaths.

Colombo (AsiaNews)  Sri Lankan Buddhists are currently celebrating the two-day Vesak festival. The event, which ends today, commemorates the birth, enlightenment and death of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha.

Like last year, ceremonies are subject to strict health restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic  such as social distancing and a ban on gatherings  in order to prevent the spread of the virus.

Several leading Buddhist monks recently addressed the issue, urging the faithful to keep celebrations low key. Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa also called on Buddhists to celebrate Vesak symbolically.

According to tradition, the event includes trips, meetings, and get-togethers with people, sharing food, making offerings, and throwing coloured lanterns.

However, due to a recent spike in coronavirus cases following last months Sinhalese New Year celebrations, the authorities are asking people to avoid gatherings, displacements and large family get-togethers.

Prominent Sri Lankan Buddhist leaders like the Venerables Thibbatuwawe Sri Sidhartha Sumangala Thero, Warakagoda Dhammasiddhi Sri Pannanada Gnanarathana Thero, Ganthune Assagi Thero, and Makulaawe Vimalabhidhaana Thero have issued a joint statement urging people to carry out activities at home because of the coronavirus pandemic, which is spreading around the world.

For this reason, they note that in temples and elsewhere we must avoid activities that involve gathering people such as almsgiving, Sila, Bhavana (meditation); instead, people must follow health guidelines, stay at home, and perform religious observances.

The statement ends with Buddhist leaders blessing all those suffering from the virus and wishing them a speedy recovery.

On behalf of Sri Lankas Catholic community, Archbishop Card Malcolm Ranjith of Colombo released a message wishing Buddhists good tidings for Vesak in these troubled times due to COVID-19 that is afflicting our nation.

In an emergency situation, it is important for us to think about our life options in the light of the teachings of the Lord Buddha and live a life based on the spiritual principles of self-denial and dedication to the well-being of one another.

The prelate ends his statement by wishing a blessed Vesak celebration to his fellow citizens, especially the members of the venerable Maha Sangha.

According to health guidelines, during the two-day celebration Buddhists can conduct religious activities at home, and must avoid meetings and gatherings in temples or shrines.

According to the latest count, Sri Lanka reported 2,377 new cases and 29 deaths from COVID-19 in the last 24 hours for a total of more than 172,000 cases and 1,269 deaths since the start of the pandemic.
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Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have reportedly been awarded joint custody over their children.

The former couple have been engaged in a custody battle over their five youngest children - Pax, 17, Zahara, 16, Shiloh, 14, and 12-year-old twins Vivienne and Knox  since their split in 2016, and on Wednesday (26.05.21) they were officially awarded joint custody of all five children.

A source told Page Six: There was a significant change made in the custody agreements based on an extremely detailed decision made by the judge.

Brad was just trying to have more time with his kids  and it has been clear that Angie has done everything possible to prevent this.

This trial lasted for several months and there were a f*** ton of witnesses, experts, therapists and other people who have been with the kids and around them, and the decision was based on this."

And it has also been claimed that Brad  who also has 19-year-old son Maddox with Angelina  is so relieved to be able to spend more time with his children.

However, sources believe Angelina will continue fighting the custody arrangement, as she reportedly thinks there were issues with the way Judge John Ouderkirk handled their court proceedings.

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The source added: "Joint custody is not the issue that Angelina objects to, there were other issues of concern, but the court proceedings are closed and sealed."

Earlier this week Angelina and her legal team claimed the judge wouldnt allow her children to testify in court.

A filing made to California's Second District Court of Appeal read: "Judge Ouderkirk denied Ms. Jolie a fair trial, improperly excluding her evidence relevant to the childrens health, safety, and welfare, evidence critical to making her case ... They have failed to adequately consider a section of the California courts code, which says it is detrimental to the best interest of the child if custody is awarded to a person with a history of domestic violence."

Angelina believes the court should be able to "hear the minor teenagers input as to their experiences, needs, or wishes as to their custody fate", but this has been refused.

However, Brad's lawyers believe the proceedings have been conducted fairly.

In a response filing made to the courts, they said: "Ouderkirk has conducted an extensive proceeding over the past six months in a thorough, fair manner and reached a tentative ruling and order after hearing from experts and percipient witnesses. [Angelina's testimony] lacked credibility in many important areas, and the existing custody order between the parties must be modified, per Mr. Pitts request, in the best interests of the children. [The objections are causing] grave harm upon the children, who will be further denied permanence and stability."
Its not just consumers getting riled up about rising beef prices. Cattle producers are, too.

Ranchers and cattle feeders are seething over a pattern they now consider all-too-familiar: the cost of hamburgers and steaks soar at the grocery store, yet the prices producers get for the animals barely budges. The market is dominated by four giant meatpacking companies that together control more than 80% of U.S. beef processing.

Its a red-line level of frustration, said Colin Woodall, chief executive officer of the National Cattlemens Beef Association, the largest trade association for cattle producers.

That ire is driving political momentum for more oversight of cattle markets just as antitrust and competition issues gain new traction in Washington, where a backlash against Big Tech is fueling broader concerns about corporate behemoths abusing dominant positions.

Six farm and cattle trade groups this past week united behind demands for meat packers to disclose more information on cattle purchases, and for the Justice Department to publicly report on an antitrust investigation it launched last May into the four major beef processors. Sixteen members of Congress wrote the Justice Department the same day, pressing for a progress report on the probe.

Lawmakers have introduced two legislative packages to require more transparency in pricing and terms of cattle purchases, in the hopes that it will give producers more leverage in transactions. Republican Senator Deb Fischer of Nebraska, who sponsored one, said she is very optimistic some version of an enhanced disclosure bill will pass Congress this year.

Rural lawmakers are sensitive to cattle producers pain. Beef cattle operations account for more than a third of U.S. farms and ranches, making it the single largest segment in the nations agriculture. Ranchers are also hurting from an expanding drought. And feedlot operators, who typically fatten cattle before they go to packers for slaughter, face soaring corn prices.

At home, I hear about it all the time, said Fischer, who described encounters with cattle feedlot operators losing hundreds of dollars per animal. You cant stay in business with those kind of losses.

Meanwhile, packers are prospering. Tyson Foods Inc., the largest U.S. meat company, earlier this month reported record margins of 11% for beef in its second quarter. The companys stock is up 22% so far this year, compared to 9% for the benchmark S&P 500 index.

The stunning beef profit margins will eventually decline but remain above historical levels, Tysons Chief Executive Officer Dean Banks said at a conference May 19.

With pandemic restrictions easing, restaurants are reopening and buying meat. Flush with stimulus payments and improving incomes from a recovering economy, Americans have been willing to pay up for more expensive steaks and burgers.

Since March 12, the wholesale price of beef has shot up 43%, according to the USDA. Cattle prices have risen only 5%.

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Producers see a rerun of their plight during COVID-19 disruptions last year, when virus outbreaks slowed slaughterhouses, and the prior year, when a fire temporarily shut down a meat plant in Holcomb, Kansas, said Woodall. Each time, beef prices soared while cattle prices dropped.

The spread between the price packers pay for cattle and the price they receive for wholesale beef keeps hitting new records, first following the August 2019 fire, and then after the pandemic hit. A USDA report that examined beef packer margins reached no conclusion on whether prices were manipulated.

Greg Ibach, the undersecretary of agriculture in the Trump administration who oversaw livestock market regulation, said markets never really returned to normal levels after the Holcomb fire. In the year prior to the Aug. 9, 2019, fire, packers operating margin on cattle averaged $137 a head. Since then, it has averaged $331 a head, according to data maintained by HedgersEdge.com.

It never really has corrected itself, Ibach said. I dont think the profits are being shared across the value chain in the same proportions that historically has happened.

Meatpacking companies say theyre constrained and struggling to attract workers, particularly after the COVID-19 outbreaks that made the industry an early epicenter of the pandemic. Tyson executives said this month theyve raised wages, but still face high employee turnover and absenteeism.

Despite the pandemics challenges, the market is competitive and growing, said Sarah Little, a spokeswoman for the North American Meat Institute, a trade group, in a statement.

There are nascent efforts to boost U.S. beef processing capacity. Marfrig Global Foods SA in March said its subsidiary, National Beef Packing Company, is spending $100 million to more than double capacity at its plant in Tama, Iowa, to 2,500 cattle daily by adding a second production shift. The changes will be done by late 2022, and there are other smaller plants in the works.

The USDA is also planning to use some funds from the Biden administrations $1.9 trillion rescue plan to help small- and medium-sized meat processors expand operations, possibly using loan guarantees or grants.

Theres an opportunity for us to support additional processing capacity and hopefully a more competitive market, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said.

Tough times on the farm also have an impact over time. Producers are expected to scale back herds in the coming months. That means the supply imbalance currently boosting packers will peak in 2021 and should eventually give more bargaining power to feedlots, according to Glynn Tonsor, agriculture economics professor at Kansas State University.

Both of those adjustments will improve the relationship in favor of the cattle seller, Tonsor said of more capacity and a decline in herds. Well see more second shifts, more new plants and fewer cattle.
With threats of water scarcity complicating the need to feed a growing global population, it is more important than ever to get crop irrigation right. Overwatering can deplete local water supplies and lead to polluted runoff, while underwatering can lead to sub-optimal crop performance. Yet few farmers use science-based tools to help them decide when and how much to water their crops.

A new University of Illinois-led study identifies obstacles and solutions to improve performance and adoption of irrigation decision-support tools at the field scale.

We wanted to offer our perspective on how to achieve field-scale precision irrigation with the most recent and advanced technologies on data collection, plant water stress, modeling and decision-making, said Jingwen Zhang, postdoctoral researcher in the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaigns department of natural resources and environmental sciences and lead author on the article in Environmental Research Letters.

Zhang said many farmers rely on traditional rules of thumb, including visual observation, crop calendars and what the neighbors are doing, to decide when and how much to water. Better data and more advanced technologies exist to help make those decisions, but they arent being leveraged currently to their full potential.

Some fields are equipped with soil-moisture sensors or cameras that detect changes in crop appearance, but there arent enough of them to provide accurate information across fields. Satellites can monitor vegetation from space, but the spatial and temporal resolution of satellite images is often too large to help make decisions at the field scale.

Kaiyu Guan, assistant professor in the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaigns department of natural resources and environmental sciences, Blue Waters professor with the National Center for Supercomputing Applications, and project leader on the study, pioneered a way to fuse high-resolution and high-frequency satellite data into one integrated high spatial-temporal resolution product to help track soil and plant conditions.

Guan said, Based on remote-sensing fusion technology and advanced modeling, we can help farmers get a fully scalable solution remotely. That's powerful. It can potentially be a revolutionary technology for farmers, not only in the U.S., but also smallholder farmers in developing countries.

With modern satellite technology and Guans fusion model, data acquisition wont be a limiting factor in future precision irrigation products. But its still important to define plant water stress appropriately.

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Historically irrigation decisions were based solely on measures of soil moisture. Guans group recently called for the agricultural industry to redefine drought, not based on soil moisture alone, but on its interaction with atmospheric dryness.

Zhang said, If we consider the soil-plant-atmosphere-continuum as a system, which reflects both soil water supply and atmospheric water demand, we can use those plant-centric metrics to define plant water stress to trigger irrigation. Again if we use our data fusion methods and process-based modelling, we can achieve precision irrigation with very high accuracy and also high resolution.

The researchers also looked at challenges regarding farmer adoption of existing decision support tools. Because current products are based on less-than-ideal data sources, Guan said producers are reluctant to switch from traditional rule-of-thumb methods to tools that may not be much more reliable. Non-intuitive user interfaces, data privacy and inflexible timing compound the problem.

Trenton Franz, associate professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a coauthor, said farmers will be more likely to adopt precision irrigation decision tools if they are accurate down to the field scale, flexible and easy to use. His and Guans teams are working on technologies to fill that need and are actively testing the technology in irrigated fields in Nebraska. That includes participating with Daran Rudnick, assistant professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and co-author of the study, in the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Testing Ag Performance program, which focuses on technology adoption and education for producers across the region.

Guan said, We're pretty close. We have real-time evapotranspiration data, and were adding the soil moisture component and the irrigation component. Probably in less than a year this will be launched as a prototype and can be tested among the farmer community.

See the article, Challenges and opportunities in precision irrigation decision-support systems for center pivots, at iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/abe436 for more information. Additional University of Illinois co-authors include Bin Peng, Chongya Jiang, Wang Zhou, Yi Yang, Yaping Cai, and Madhu Khanna.

The project is primarily funded by the U.S. Department of Agricultures National Institute of Food and Agricultures Cyber-Physical System Program and an NSF CAREER Award through its Environmental Sustainability Program.
WASHINGTON, May 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA has named three students the winners of the Artemis Moon Pod Essay Contest for their creative visions of a pioneering journey to the Moon. Nearly 14,000 students entered the contest, each competing for the grand prize: a trip to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, where they will witness the first launch of the Artemis era.

NASA invited students to envision themselves leading a crew, or "pod," on a mission to the Moon's South Pole, and capture these ideas in their essays. NASA and Future Engineers, an online platform for student challenges, launched the contest in September 2020 for K-12 students nationwide. The contest's goal is to encourage the Artemis Generation  kids growing up during the era of NASA's return to the Moon  to think ahead about the human and technological needs of a lunar expedition. What types of tools or technologies would they bring to the Moon? Who would they include in their "pod" of crewmembers? What would they leave behind for future lunar crews to use?

Grand-prize winning essays in the three, grade-level-based categories are:

Kindergarten through fourth grade category: Austin Pritts of Wolcott, Indiana .

of . Fifth through eighth grade category: Taia Saurer of Laguna Beach, California .

of . Ninth through 12th grade category: Amanda Gutierrez of Lincoln, Nebraska .

"I want to extend my congratulations to the amazing Artemis Moon Pod Essay winners. NASA shares your excitement for humanity's return to the Moon, and we are so inspired by your creative ideas for how to lead that expedition," said Kathy Lueders, associate administrator for the Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate (HEOMD) at NASA Headquarters. "Get your boots ready, because you are the next era of space explorers  the Artemis Generation."

Students across the nation wrote in to share their visions of a weeklong mission to the Moon's South Pole. Over 1,000 educators, professionals, and space enthusiasts served as volunteers for the first round of judging, and selected 155 semifinalists in March 2021. The list was narrowed further to nine finalists in April. A panel of four judges, including two from HEOMD and two from the agency's Office of STEM Engagement, conducted virtual interviews with the finalists about their essays and ideas before choosing the three winners.

Pritts' essay, "My Mission to the Moon," tells the tale of a daring Moon Pod crew consisting of a test pilot/navigator, chemist, and mechanical engineer who establish a permanent lunar research facility powered by Kilopower Reactor Using Stirling Technology (KRUSTY).

In "One Week on the Moon  The Artemis Adventure," Saurer's vision for the Moon Pod mission calls for a four-person crew  including the first woman to step onto the Moon  to build a habitat for future astronauts using a combination of lunar soil and a fibrous fungal material called mycelium.

Gutierrez's composition, "Dream Big Moon Pod," follows the adventure of a three-person crew of a chemist, hydrologist, and astronautical engineer as they install an Endothermic Electrolysis Reactor (EER), designed to provide fuel and oxygen for future crews at the Moon's Shackleton Crater.

"I can't tell you how inspiring and energizing it's been to read these essays and see the students' enthusiasm and creativity in action," said Mike Kincaid, NASA's associate administrator for the Office of STEM Engagement. "The future of space exploration is in good hands."

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The contest was a collaborative effort between NASA's Office of STEM Engagement and the Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate, in partnership with the online platform Future Engineers.

Through Future Engineers, the grand prize winners will have the opportunity to travel with their families to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to see the first launch of NASA's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft during the uncrewed Artemis I mission. On this first flight of the Artemis program, the Orion spacecraft will travel beyond the Moon, nearly 280,000 miles away from Earth  farther than any spacecraft built for humans has ever traveled  during a three-week mission.

The 13,898 essays submitted to the Moon Pod Essay Contest will fly on a USB flash drive aboard Artemis I, and NASA will provide each student who participated a signed certificate. Each semifinalist will get the chance to learn even more about Artemis through a series of virtual Artemis Explorer Sessions with NASA experts, along with an Artemis prize pack filled with fun educational materials. The contest's nine finalists also will have the chance to travel with a parent to the agency's Johnson Space Center in Houston to learn more about lunar exploration.

The Moon Pod Essay Contest aligns with NASA's Artemis Student Challenges, an ongoing collection of engineering and technological design challenges allowing students worldwide to learn about human spaceflight topics and technologies.

Future Engineers hosts online innovation challenges for K-12 students. In 2014, Future Engineers launched its inaugural 3D printing in space challenge, sponsored by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Foundation with technical assistance from NASA, which produced historic achievements including the first student-designed 3D print in space. Through the support of the U.S. Department of Education's Small Business Innovation Research Program, Future Engineers launched a multi-challenge platform in 2018 capable of hosting Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) challenges of all kinds.

For more information on NASA's Office of STEM Engagement, visit:

https://www.nasa.gov/stem

View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/3-students-named-winners-of-artemis-moon-pod-essay-contest-301300196.html

SOURCE NASA
(The Center Square)  Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita said Wednesday that Indiana Universitys vaccine mandate clearly violates the new state law on vaccine passports which prohibits the state and local governments from requiring proof of vaccination.

Rokita soundly rejected IUs argument that it is not a part of the state and so not covered by HB 1405, which passed the Indiana General Assembly and was signed into law by Gov. Eric Holcomb on April 29.

Public universities, and their boards of trustees, are created through statute and receive their corporate powers through legislation, Rokita said in a 7-page legal opinion that was addressed to two legislators and blasted out to the media. There is no statutory exemption for public universities under Ind. Code ch. 16-39-11, so the new law applies to public universities.

Rokitas opinion applies not just to IU students, but also to faculty and staff of Indiana University on all campuses in the state.

IU, says Rokita, unquestionably violates the new law by requiring its students, faculty, and staff to show proof of immunization as a condition of continued attendance or employment.

The opinion was issued at the request of Reps. Peggy Mayfield, R-Bedford, and Andy Zap, R- Huntington, and in response to IUs announcement Friday it would require all students, faculty and staff to get the COVID-19 vaccination.

In the announcement, the IU administration said "exemptions will be strictly limited to a very narrow set of criteria, including medical exemptions, and documented and significant religious exemptions."

On Tuesday, the university denied at least two requests by undergraduate students for religious exemptions for summer study abroad programs. In one case, the university challenged the student, writing in an email to her: We note that your request for a religious exemption is in conflict with your prior vaccination history. Therefore unless you can establish a change in your religious beliefs since your last vaccination this exemption request is denied.

I am incredibly heartbroken to say the least, she wrote in an email. I truly believe IU waited until the last minute on purpose to leave students with no options.

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Following the Friday announcement, students, parents and employees flocked to social media and called the governors office and state legislators. More than 8,000 people had signed a Change.org petition to get IU to retract its policy.

Rokitas opinion appears to put the rest the question of whether the vaccine passport law applies to IU, and whether IU can require proof of vaccination. But it also raises issues about IUs stated intent to punish students by cutting off their email, access to all university systems, and by cutting off their ability to pay for things on campus, and even at the grocery store, using a card that is tied to their bursars account.

Unlike Purdue, IU gives students, faculty and staff no other option or alternative to vaccination, the opinion says. Students who fail to comply 'will have their class registration cancelled, CrimonCard access terminated, access to IU systems (Canvas, email, etc.) terminated, and will not be allowed to participate in any on campus activity.'

It also references the statement that faculty and staff who refuse will no longer be able to be employed by Indiana University and that working remotely to avoid meeting the COVID-19 requirement is not an option.

IU provides no choice to its students, faculty and staff  not only must they be vaccinated, but they must also provide proof of it to the university to maintain their status as a student or employee. This seems precisely what the new law was intended to avoid, the opinion says.

Before the announcement by Rokita, and the distribution of his legal opinion, First Amendment lawyer Jim Bopp had agreed to represent plaintiffs in taking action against the university, saying it is completely unconstitutional for any governmental body to inquire into anyones religious beliefs, saying the university has already violated the constitutional rights of students whose exemptions it denied after asking questions about their faith.

The only thing the government can do when someone asserts a religious belief is to honor it," he said on Wednesday. "They dont have a choice. Its unconstitutional for the government to judge whether or not a particular religious belief is suitable, appropriate, quote legitimate unquote.

He also questioned whether IUs stated desire to protect students was rational, saying, there are other greater risks of death to college students than the COVID-19 virus.

For instance, lightning strikes. Has IU mandated that all students stay inside when it rains? Or they dont care about that risk?" he said. "Have they prohibited IU students from driving? Or they just dont care if they get killed by automobiles? So this is a legitimate question. Is this policy rational, or are they just on some woke reaction to what at this point is really, in large part, under control?
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- SAIC-GM, the joint venture between SAIC Motor and General Motors, recently entered into a strategic partnership with Wuhan municipal government for building the smart all-electric vehicle platform Ultium in the capital of Hubei province, according to a local media outlet.



Ultium platform; photo credit: General Motors



To accelerate the move toward electrification, General Motors vowed to bring the heart of its future EV portfoliosthe Ultium EV platformto China through its SAIC-GM joint venture. The Cadillac LYRIQ, the first product from the Ultium platform, is scheduled to be launched in China in early 2022, to be followed by Buick and Chevrolet EVs.

The U.S. automakers also said it expected more than 40% of its new launches in China to be NEVs by 2025. They will cover all major segments across the Cadillac, Buick, Chevrolet, Baojun and Wuling lineups.

To strengthen electrification offensive, SAIC-GM plans to pour over 50 billion yuan ($7.804 billion) in electrification and intelligent connectivity businesses, and roll out 10 plus made-in-China NEV models based on the Ultium platform by 2025.

According to the local report, over 95% of parts used in the Ultium-based full-electric vehicles are expected to be locally sourced in China. The introduction of the platform will help Wuhan's auto industry speed up the transition to electrification, intelligence, and connectivity.

Starting operation in January 2015, SAIC-GM's Wuhan branch has already manufactured three NEV models, namely the Buick Velite 6 BEV, the Buick Velite 6 PHEV, and the Chevrolet Menlo BEV.
Former Lake County Recorder Michael B. Brown pleaded not guilty to a felony drug dealing charge Wednesday in a northern Wisconsin courtroom.

The plea came moments after Forest County Judge Leon Stenz found Wisconsin Assistant District Attorney Alexander Seifert established probable cause to believe Brown committed possession of marijuana with intent to deliver.

Stenz did not immediately set a trial date on the charge, which carries a possible sentence of up to 3 1/2 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

WATCH NOW: Assistance available to help Hoosier renters pay landlord, utility costs

The brief preliminary hearing, held via videoconferencing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, largely featured Sgt. Adam Boney of the Forest County Sheriff's Department speaking about the drugs and drug paraphernalia he allegedly found in Brown's car after pulling Brown over at 12:20 a.m. March 15 in the town of Wabeno, Wisconsin, for driving with only one headlight.

Specifically, Boney claimed to have discovered a glass Ball jar with 10.6 grams of marijuana, two digital scales with green plant residue, an opened box of 100 plastic sandwich bags, a package of organic hemp rolling papers, and $2,800 cash.

Under questioning by Brown's attorney, Robert A. Kennedy, Boney admitted the amount of marijuana in Brown's car was consistent with what one person might have for personal use.

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Though Boney said the scales, baggies, and cash also found in the car suggest Brown was packaging and selling the marijuana.

WATCH NOW: Riding Shotgun with NWI Cops: Monitoring LaPorte with Specialist Justin Dyer

Brown, 37, was released from the Forest County Jail March 16 after posting a $2,000 cash bond, according to court records.

He now lives in Iron River, Michigan, which is approximately 50 miles north of Wabeno toward the western end of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

The Democrat served as Lake County recorder from 2013 to 2020.

Brown's tenure was marred by rampant, unexplained absenteeism from his office in the Lake County Government Center and a 2018 sexual harassment settlement that cost county taxpayers $185,000.

Gallery: Recent arrests booked into Lake County Jail
09:00 | Lima, May. 27.

These measures will provide support especially to the most vulnerable people, at a time when the Peruvian economy improves and employment gradually recovers

The economy resumed positive growth in March, and the recovery path is likely to continue in the coming months, as a result of the economic measures taken last year which were strengthened this year the relaxation of restrictions on economic activities , and the positive statistical effect.

To consolidate this trend, the Executive Branch will implement a set of measures covering four dimensions:

I. Management of the Emergency (S/388 million or US$101.2 million)

 Health insurance for all through the SIS scheme (S/250 million or US$65.2 million)

 Investments in the health field (S/138 million or US$36 million)

Eight investment projects will be financed by regional and local governments, as well as the Ministry of Health (Minsa) , to improve the supply of health services.

II. Support to families (S/218 million or US$56.8 million)

 Temporary intervention of "Juntos Program" (S/48 million or US$12.5 million)

The Ministry of Inclusion and Social Development (Midis) , through Juntos Program , will implement a basic package of health services (rotavirus and pneumococcal vaccination, as well as iron supplementation) for children under 24 months, which will go to 155,000 households.








It also states that the execution of said projects is the responsibility of the Regional Government of Apurimac, the Provincial Municipality of Parinacochas, as well as district municipalities of Curahuasi, Huaquirca, Juan Espinoza Medrano, Huancarama, Cotabambas, Mara, Curpahuasi, San Javier de Alpabamba, Marcabamba, Lucanas, Tumay Huaraca, and Oropesa.





The general characteristics of the issue of sovereign bonds are as follows:





- Maximum amount of issue: S/64,108,000 (about US$16.6 million)





- Responsible unit: The Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF), through the General Directorate of Public Treasury





- Structuring agent: The Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF), through the General Directorate of Public Treasury





- Currency: Peruvian Sol





- Negotiability of the bonds: The bonds must be freely negotiable





- Placement method: Through auctions within the framework of the Market Creators Program or the mechanism replacing it





- Placement term: In one or more internal placements between 2021 and 2022





- Registration: Account entry in CAVALI SA ICLV and listed on the Lima Stock Exchange





The provisions set forth in the Sovereign Bonds Regulations and the Market Creators Program Regulations apply to the internal issue of bonds.





(END) CNA/RMB/MVB

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The Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) has approved a domestic debt operation, through the issue of Sovereign Bonds for up to S/64,108,000 (about US$16.6 million) to finance a portfolio of 24 investment projects, as well as five pre-investment studies and technical files.Publicado: 27/5/2021
YEREVAN, MAY 27, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian Ministry of Defense released the names of the Armenian servicemen who were taken captive by Azerbaijani armed forces on Armenian territory on May 27.

Servicemen A.N. Abgaryan, I.A. Sargsyan, V.V. Sargsyan, B.S. Ohanyan, A.G. Budoyan and V.O. Rafayelyan of the Armenian Armed Forces were captured while carrying out engineering works on the territory of Armenia at the protection area of a military base.

The Azerbaijani Defense Ministrys statement claiming that the captured Armenian servicemen were on Azerbaijani territory is disinformation, the Armenian Ministry of Defense said.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
YEREVAN, MAY 27, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian sides does everything, will take every action to return the 6 Armenian servicemen from the Azerbaijani captivity, Deputy defense minister Arman Sargsyan told reporters in the Parliament after the closed session with the parliamentary standing committees which was discussing the tense situation on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border.

The deputy minister urged everyone to unite around the state, the Army, adding that Azerbaijan is spreading lots of fake news these days.

The defense ministry does and will do everything possible. The Army is conducting its actions based on necessary analysis. From our side all actions are being taken to solve the situation and also to prevent repetition of such incidents, and everything is being done for the quick return of our captured servicemen, the deputy minister said.

He called on the citizens to be confident that the defense ministry, the Armed Forces control the situation. We will take every step to return the captives, will take every action, Arman Sargsyan said.

As for the situation in Syunik province, he said it has been normal as of the moment when he arrived in the Parliament, no such incidents have been registered.

On May 27 early morning, 6 servicemen of the Armenian Armed Forces, while conducting engineering works in the territory of an Armenian military base protection area in the border section of Armenias Gegharkunik province, have been surrounded and taken captive by the Azerbaijani troops.

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, 27 MAY, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 27 May, USD exchange rate up by 0.10 drams to 520.78 drams. EUR exchange rate down by 2.38 drams to 635.04 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate up by 0.01 drams to 7.09 drams. GBP exchange rate down by 2.25 drams to 735.45 drams.

The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals.

Gold price up by 219.55 drams to 31808.4 drams. Silver price up by 9.55 drams to 470.83 drams. Platinum price up by 254.96 drams to 20108.9 drams.
Indiana University cannot require students, faculty or staff to provide proof of their COVID-19 vaccination status as a condition of attending or working at the school.

That's the official opinion of Attorney General Todd Rokita, a Munster native, who said Wednesday the IU vaccine mandate runs afoul of a new law barring vaccine "passports" in the Hoosier State.

House Enrolled Act 1405, which took effect April 29 after being signed by Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb, prohibits the state or local units of government from inquiring whether a person has received, or not received, a vaccine to protect against hospitalization and death due to COVID-19.

Rokita said there's no question Indiana University is an arm of the state.

Therefore, IU's announcement last week that it's requiring proof of COVID-19 vaccination status from everyone at the university prior to the start of the fall semester clearly runs afoul of the law, Rokita said.

WATCH NOW: 2,000 shots available seven days a week starting April 7 at Gary mass vaccination site

At the same time, Rokita noted the law does not prevent IU from requiring its students and employees be vaccinated against COVID-19 or other contagious diseases; it only prevents the university from mandating written or electronic evidence of a person's COVID-19 vaccination status.

"Although it is not necessarily contrary to (House Enrolled Act 1405) to require the COVID-19 vaccine for students and employees, requiring them to provide proof of it is in clear violation of the statute," Rokita said.

In that vein, Rokita said Purdue University's proposed plan to exempt COVID-19 vaccine recipients from regular COVID-19 testing likely passes muster because it does not condition university enrollment or employment on providing proof of COVID-19 vaccination status.

"(Purdue's policy) permits even vaccinated students to not provide the university with their immunization status if they are willing to be tested for COVID-19," Rokita said.

IU officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the attorney general's opinion, which has no force of law but typically will be taken into consideration by an Indiana court if there is a pending lawsuit relating to the issue.

The university previously said universal vaccination will ensure the school safely can lift most masking and social distancing requirements, and confidently return to in-person learning this fall, including at the Indiana University Northwest campus in Gary.

The attorney general's opinion was requested by state Sen. Andy Zay, R-Huntington, and state Rep. Peggy Mayfield, R-Martinsville.

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Mayfield also was among the 19 House Republican lawmakers, including state Rep. Hal Slager, R-Schererville, who sent a letter to Holcomb on Tuesday asking the governor to use his authority to prohibit Indiana public universities from mandating vaccines that only are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use on an emergency basis, including the three COVID-19 vaccines.

"I agree with the attorney general, as it was my intent, that public entities, including state universities, can't require proof of the vaccine," Mayfield said.

"Hoosiers should have the right to make health care decisions that best suit their families, their personal medical circumstances, and a broad interpretation of their religious beliefs  a concept that were disappointed to see Indiana University has rejected."

Drew Anderson, spokesman for the Indiana Democratic Party, said he's disappointed, but not surprised, to see Hoosier Republicans put politics above public safety, especially the health and safety of young people.

"These unnecessary risks work against the recommendations provided by local and university officials. Sadly, it appears Indiana Republicans would rather focus on shallow rhetoric than deliver common sense solutions," Anderson said.

WATCH NOW: Riding Shotgun with NWI Cops: Monitoring LaPorte with Specialist Justin Dyer

Records show the vaccine "passport" language was added to House Enrolled Act 1405 in final hours of this year's regular session of the Indiana General Assembly.

It was approved 88-10 in the Republican-controlled House and 48-1 in the Republican-controlled Senate.

Zay said he's already planning to propose legislation next year further clarifying the statute and eliminating the potential loophole identified by Rokita.

Though Zay may not have to wait that long. The Legislature did not adjourn for the year at the end of April, as it usually does, because it must meet again in the fall to complete the once-a-decade process of redrawing legislative district boundaries that was postponed due to coronavirus-related data delays at the U.S. Census Bureau.

As a result, the General Assembly can reconvene at the call of House and Senate leadership any time through Nov. 15 and immediately enact legislation on vaccine passports, or any other issue a majority of lawmakers deem worthy of action.

Indiana attorney general opinion on vaccine "passports"

Meet the 2021 Northwest Indiana legislative delegation
YEREVAN, MAY 27, ARMENPRESS. Caretaker Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan will present a plan for the peaceful solution of the current situation on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border.

I will soon present a plan for the peaceful solution of the border situation. I am sure the proposal is mutually beneficial and feasible in a short period of time with the support of the international community, Pashinyan said on Facebook.

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, MAY 27, ARMENPRESS. Caretaker Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan suggested at the Security Council session that both Armenian and Azerbaijani forces should be withdrawn from Sotk-Khoznavar section of the border for easing border tensions, where international observers should be deployed with the involvement of representatives of Russia or the OSCE Minsk Group Co-chair countries.

''If the situation is not solved, the provocations can inevitably lead to large-scale clashes. For that reason I suggest a diplomatic and peaceful solution to the situation, addressing an open proposal to the international community and the leadership of Azerbaijan. The proposal is the following  we reach an agreement that units of the armed forces of both sides withdraw from the border very quickly and return to their permeant bases, and international observers are deployed in those areas with the involvement of representatives of Russia or the OSCE Minsk Group Co-chair countries. After that delimitation works will take place under the auspices of the international community'', Pashinyan said.
NVIDIA is up to its old tricks. It released a vague teaser to announce an event for next week, during which it could show off new graphics cards. Rumors have suggested the company will reveal the RTX 3080 Ti and RTX 3070 Ti GPUs at the end of this month. With Computex getting underway on June 1st, the timing adds up.

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Reports have pegged the RTX 3080 Ti as offering performance at a level in between the RTX 3080 and RTX 3090 . It's said to have 12GB of GDDR6X memory, 2GB more than the 3080, as well as a souped-up memory bandwidth and wider 384-bit bus (which would match the RTX 3090).

It seems likely that any new cards will limit the Ethereum hash rate. NVIDIA has been placing cryptocurrency mining restrictions in the GPUs it's been building recently. The idea is to make the cards less attractive to crypto miners so that they'll be easier for consumers to find. However, the RTX 3080 and RTX 3070 are still like gold dust.

Still, it'll probably be very difficult to get your hands on a RTX 3080 Ti or RTX 3070 Ti any time soon without paying vastly over the odds. If recent evidence is anything to go by, demand will far outstrip supply. The ongoing global shortage of semiconductors will limit availability even further.
A health worker in Nepal inoculates a woman with the Chinese-made Vero Cell Covid-19 vaccine in the capital Kathmandu on May 25, 2021

Nepal's prime minister Thursday called on the international community to supply the Himalayan nation with nearly 40 million Covid-19 shots to combat a new wave of infections that has overwhelmed hospitals.

The country of nearly 30 million people has so far received just over three million doses from various sources, with another million promised by Beijing.

"We appeal to the international community to make vaccines available... We are ready to purchase if donations are not possible," KP Sharma Oli told reporters.

"It is difficult to take small numbers because double doses are required. So we hope that vaccines arrive in large quantities. We have to vaccinate about 20 million people, so we need almost 40 million vaccines."

The impoverished nation began recording a rise in cases in early April that peaked in mid-May at more than 9,000 infections a day.

The daily rises have declined slightly but the healthcare system remains under pressure, with oxygen supplies stretched.

"The situation is heading towards being controlled but we are not yet in a situation where we can say (the cases) are decreasing," Oli added.

Nepal began its vaccination campaign in January with a gift of one million doses of AstraZeneca-Oxford jabs from India.

The government had ordered two million more AstraZeneca-Oxford shots from India but a spike in cases saw New Delhi freeze its exports, leaving Nepal with only the million delivered in January.

China donated 800,000 Sinopharm shots, while a further 348,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine had arrived under the Covax programme to help poorer countries in March. Media reports said up to 13 million shots were meant to be sent by Covax.

Beijing said Wednesday that it would send another million jabs under a grant.

Epidemiologist Lhamo Sherpa said developing countries like Nepal badly needed more shots.

"It is important to pressure the international community for vaccines," he told AFP.

Western nations "are talking about wearing or not wearing masks or vaccinating children, while here even the old, vulnerable population have not received it," Sherpa said.

pm/grk/ch
Japan's Naomi Osaka said Wednesday that she will not take part in news conferences at the forthcoming French Open, believing that some post-match inquests are little more than "kicking a person while they're down".

The world number two, a four-time Grand Slam title winner, says she will donate the fines she will accrue to mental health charities.

"I am writing this to say that I am not going to do any press during Roland Garros," the 23-year-old announced on Twitter.

"I have often felt that people have no regard for athletes' mental health and this rings true whenever I see a press conference or partake in one.

"We're often sat there and asked questions that we've been asked multiple times before or asked questions that bring doubt into our minds and I am not going to subject myself to people who doubt me."

Under tennis tournament rules, all players are required to hold press conferences after each match.

They also perform media duties before a tournament.

Osaka regularly packs out media rooms due to her standing in the sport and her charismatic appeal to reporters.

She fields questions in Japanese and English and is regarded as one of the world's most marketable stars.

Last year she made $37 million, more than any other female athlete.

She added on Wednesday: "I believe the whole situation is kicking a person while they are down and I don't understand the reasoning behind it."

The French Open gets underway in Paris on Sunday.

Osaka has yet to get beyond the third round at Roland Garros.

dj/jc
Kelly Clarkson and Simon Cowell reminisced about being American Idol originals.

The British TV judge appeared on Wednesday's The Kelly Clarkson Show, dubbed as a "reunion with the OGs." There's clearly a lot of love there with Cowell saying he always tells aspiring stars to "Follow Kelly" when it comes to their career path  and called her one of the "nicest" people he's ever met.

"You always knew where you wanted to be after the show [and] the kind of artist you wanted to be," Cowell said, reminiscing about the show's first season in 2002 which saw him as a judge and Clarkson the big winner. "You didn't need anyone to give you that kind of guidance."

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Cowell, who stepped down as judge after Season 10, continued, "I use you as an example. I genuinely mean this: You're one of the nicest people I've ever met. Most loyal I can say that because we've known each other a long time. But if people ever say, 'What advice can you give me?' I just say, 'Follow Kelly."

They spoke about Clarkson now being the advice-giver as a coach on The Voice  with Cowell asking how she likes being on the "other side."

"I feel like I'm a good mix of you and Paula [Abdul]," Clarkson replied. "I'm a cheerleader in a sense," which former judge Abdul literally was at the start of her career. "I think I'm a mix of both of you because I am very honest, but I try to be constructive with it."

Simon Cowell on the Kelly Clarkson Show. (Photo: Weiss Eubanks/NBCUniversal/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images)

Cowell praised her, "You're very good, I've got to tell you."

That was behind Clarkson stepping in for Cowell as a judge on America's Got Talent when he broke his back this summer.

He said they were at "a bit of a loose end" after he fell from his electric bike at his Malibu home. He broke his back and underwent a six-hour surgery on his spine, so he needed someone to fill in as he recovered. The only problem? As he was in bed healing and watching Clarkson, he thought, "You're actually doing too well here."

Story continues

Clarkson is on good terms with all the Idol OGs. In 2019, when her show debuted, she had a reunion with Cowell, Abdul, Randy Jackson and Ryan Seacrest.

Clarkson's show has been a hit  and it will actually be even more visible in 2022. It was announced Wednesday that she's benefiting from the Ellen DeGeneres Show going off the air as The Kelly Clarkson Show will move into DeGeneres's prime afternoon time periods on NBC-owned stations.

Clarkson's show is now in its second season. Last year, it was renewed for two more, through 2023.

Read more from Yahoo Entertainment:
US Trade Representative Katherine Tai

The US and China's top trade negotiators have held "candid, pragmatic" talks, in their first meeting under the Biden presidency.

US Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Chinese Vice Premier Liu He held a virtual meeting to discuss matters.

Both sides said they discussed the importance of the trade relationship between the two countries.

The talks follow the Trump administration's combative stance towards China and resulting trade war.

The Office of the United States Trade Representative said that Ms Tai and Mr Liu "discussed the guiding principles of the Biden-Harris Administration's worker-centered trade policy and her ongoing review of the U.S.-China trade relationship, while also raising issues of concern."

Both sides said they had agreed to continue their negotiations.

The Chinese Commerce Ministry said in a statement that both sides held "candid, pragmatic and constructive exchanges with an attitude of equality and mutual respect", according to a report by state media outlet the Global Times.

It added that both sides saw "the development of bilateral trade [as] very important."

Ahead of the talks Ms Tai told the Reuters news agency that the US still faced "very large challenges" in its trade relationship with China.

A bitter trade war under former President Donald Trump saw tariffs placed on a range of goods traded between the US and China.

The world's two biggest economies signed a so-called "phase 1" agreement in January last year.

In that pact Beijing promised to increase its purchases of US products and services by at least $200bn (142bn) over 2020 and 2021.

Liu He signed a "phase 1" trade agreement with Donald Trump in 2020

Ms Tai has said she is now looking at whether the terms of the deal have been met by Beijing, as some experts have suggested that China has fallen up to 40% short on its agreement to buy American goods.

Story continues

So far, US President Joe Biden has not pulled back on the tough trade messaging to Beijing of his predecessor.

President Biden has insisted that existing tariffs will be kept in place for now as he looks to boost the US economy, which was hit hard early in the coronavirus pandemic but is now recovering.

Beijing has also maintained duties on some imports from America.

China was the only major economy to see its global trade grow last year as it became the first big country to emerge from the pandemic.

Sales of Chinese-made goods have soared around the world, as demand from the US jumped and the Covid-19 crisis in India stalled much of its factory production.
The last time we went to CES, Dell brought along its Concept UFO  a gaming PC stuffed into a portable shell with an 8-inch screen and detachable gamepads. Since then, Nintendo Switch sales have continued to skyrocket, and weve been teased by projects like the crowdfunded Aya Neo. But now it appears that Valve might really make the portable gaming PC concept happen, with information leaking about a SteamPal device with a controller codenamed Neptune.

Nintendo Switch Lite

If Ars Technicas anonymous sources arent enough, you really have to look no further than comments from Valve boss, Gabe Newell. He recently told students in New Zealand that the company would have something related to console games to announce by the end of this year, and that it won't be the answer you expect.

Assuming Valve maintains interest in the project long enough to release it, this certainly seems possible. NVIDIA promised console-like portable gaming powered by Tegra about 10 years ago , and that begat the Switch, so Im more than intrigued by the idea of what Valve could achieve with even more powerful modern chipsets and a deep library of PC games. Oh, and speaking of Valve, apparently the Portal movie is still in development.

 Richard Lawler

Expect to hear more soon.

Microsoft Build 2021

Microsofts Build event for developers is happening this week, and CEO Satya Nadellas keynote contained a significant teaser: Soon we will share one of the most significant updates to Windows of the past decade. Not only is the exec excited about the next generation of Windows, its apparently far enough along that he has been self-hosting it for months.

He closed his message to developers by saying, Our promise to you is this: We will create more opportunity for every Windows developer today and welcome every creator who is looking for the most innovative, new, open platform to build and distribute and monetize applications. Among the changes the company reportedly has planned include allowing companies to use their own payments system to collect fees for in-app purchases  a choice that has interesting timing as Epic and Apple trade legal blows over exactly that idea.

Continue reading.

Story continues

Separately, Waymo has been using the I-Pace to test self-driving tech.

Street View I-Pace

It seems odd, but Google is only now adding its first electric vehicle to the Street View fleet. Over the next 12 months, specially outfitted Jaguar I-Pace EVs will start driving around Dublin . And they won't just collect Street View imagery  they'll also monitor the city's air quality.

Street View cars in London similarly pulled double duty back in 2018, and the data is supposed to help build a street level map of air pollution. The mobile air sensors developed by Aclima will measure nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions as well as fine particles (PM2.5) in the air, street-by-street. VP of Geo Operations at Google, Paddy Flynn, said in a statement: Were using technology to capture this important data and make it accessible so that together with Dublin City Council, we can drive solution planning."

Continue reading.

Your new Model 3 or Model Y will just use cameras now.

Model Y

Just last month, Elon Musk said Tesla would start to remove radar sensors from its production cars, and the process has already begun. New Model 3 and Model Y vehicles built for North America no longer have radar onboard to enable driver assist features like Autopilot and its Full Self Driving system.

However, the change is happening so suddenly that buyers may receive vehicles with restrictions on the use of Autosteer, Smart Summon and Emergency Lane Departure Avoidance. Software updates "in the weeks ahead" will re-enable those features.

Continue reading.

Mark your calendar.

Horizon Forbidden West

Sony has revealed its next State of Play will take place later this week with a focus on Horizon Forbidden West . The 20-minute stream will include 14 minutes of new gameplay footage captured from PlayStation 5. Tune in for the reveal at 5 PM ET on Thursday.

Continue reading.

But wait, theres more...

USB-C 2.1 spec will more than double power capacity to 240W

Sony is 'strengthening' PlayStation Now as it tries to reach 1 billion people

Google's Fuchsia OS debuts on the original Nest Hub

SteelSeries' Prime mice have optical switches rated for 100 million clicks

Microsoft wants Teams to be your go-to for collaborative apps

Panasonic's GH6 will offer 10-bit 5.7K 60p video and cost around $2,500

Panasonic's GH5 II refresh boosts 4K video quality and adds live streaming

Microsoft, the Linux Foundation and others team up to make software sustainable

Sen. Wyden urges government to boost broadband speed targets

ARM's first v9 CPUs are built for computers, not just phones

Philo TV is increasing the price of its streaming plan to $25 per month for new customers

Engadget Deals: Samsung knocks up to $200 off the new Galaxy Chromebook 2
Canadian environmentalist and broadcaster, Dr David Suzuki, spoke with Yahoo News Australia about why humans are destroying nature and why he holds little hope for the future of our society. Interview by: Michael Dahlstrom
You might have noticed that fresh flower prices have risen a bit in the past few weeks. Who would ever think that a new tax on people in one South American country, Colombia, would ever have an effect here in Auburn, New York? That is exactly what has happened. Let me start from the beginning.

As most readers of this column know, most of the flowers sold in the United States, especially in the Northeast, are grown in Colombia and Ecuador. Our finest roses, in a magnificent array of colors with large flower heads and strong stems, come from Ecuador. They tend to be a bit more expensive than those from Colombia, but their presentation and lasting qualities are worth it.

Most of our other flowers originate in three areas of Colombia: near Medellin, in the northwest corner of the country; from Cali, a small area along the southern coast overlooking the Pacific; and mostly from the mountainous areas around Bogota. The area is ideal for growing flowers, with lots of sun and even temperatures. Colombian flower growers have found that by building their greenhouses at different altitudes, they can best satisfy the temperature needs of various crops. At the lowest altitudes, roses and various warm weather crops thrive. Move up a couple thousand feet and you have a steady temperature in the 70s. Chrysanthemums love it there, and as you climb a few thousand more feet, the 55-degree temperature is ideal for growing carnations. In my mind, there is no more beautiful carnation than one grown in the mountains surrounding Bogota.
A top federal official hailing from Indiana is strongly urging Region residents to make use of the free COVID-19 mass vaccination site in Gary before it shuts down on Saturday.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, a former South Bend mayor popularly known as "Mayor Pete," wants anyone age 12 and up who has not grabbed the opportunity to be protected against hospitalization and death from COVID-19 to head this week to the vaccination clinic at the former Roosevelt College and Career Academy, 2401 Harrison St., Gary.

"It's a great resource, and while it's open we want to make sure people take advantage," Buttigieg said Wednesday in an exclusive interview with The Times.

WATCH NOW: Gary opens vaccination site at former Roosevelt High School

The vaccine site, operated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Indiana Department of Health, is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday.

It offers both the two-shot Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to anyone age 12 and up and the one-shot Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine to anyone age 18 and up.

There is no cost to receive either vaccine, appointments are not required, and residents of any state can be immunized at the location.

Free transportation to and from the site is available on buses operated by the Gary Public Transportation Corp. (GPTC), or can be arranged through the mobile applications for the Lyft and Uber ride-hailing companies.

"We know, especially in Indiana, not everybody has a car, not everybody has a great transit link for where they need to be," Buttigieg said. "So that's where Uber and Lyft stepping up can make a big difference, and we're doing everything we can to get the word out about that."

Buttigieg also noted free Uber and Lyft rides can be arranged to any of the 1,075 vaccine sites in the Hoosier State, including most hospitals, health clinics, retail pharmacies, and public health departments located throughout Northwest Indiana.

He said individuals interested in being protected against COVID-19 can find a vaccine site through the federal vaccines.gov website, or by texting their ZIP code to 438829 to receive a list of nearby locations. Information about the vaccines also is available on the website.

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"It is natural to have a lot of questions and those questions can get answered," he said. "Vaccines.gov is a great resource."

More details about each of the vaccine sites in Indiana also are available online at ourshot.in.gov. Appointments are not required to be vaccinated at any site in the Hoosier State.

"We're really emphasizing the opportunity right now to get everyone vaccinated," Buttigieg said. "It's just a whole of government effort to make sure that we're getting everybody."

Buttigieg said more than 50% of Americans already are considered fully vaccinated against COVID-19, while 62% have received at least their first dose of the vaccine.

State data show 159,386 Lake County residents and 62,894 people living in Porter County were fully vaccinated through Tuesday, and overall 2,460,195 Hoosiers have gotten their COVID-19 vaccine shots.

Buttigieg said community leaders, such as pastors, teachers, doctors, elected officials, and others who have been vaccinated should use the next few days to try to get people who might be hesitant about receiving the vaccine out to the Gary immunization site.

WATCH NOW: Riding Shotgun with NWI Cops: Monitoring LaPorte with Specialist Justin Dyer

"Now is a great time to speak up," Buttigieg said. "This week really is the last opportunity to take advantage of that center, which is just a really central and accessible location for a lot of people who may not have had their vaccinations yet."

At the same time, Buttigieg said Region residents who don't get vaccinated at the Gary site this week still have the opportunity to get the free vaccine at any of the other available locations for the foreseeable future.

The Gary mass vaccination site opened to the public April 7. Officials say it's capable of providing up to 2,000 COVID-19 vaccinations a day.

COVID-19: Hoosiers We've Lost
Editor's note: This story was co-published with The Imprint, an independent, nonprofit daily news publication covering child welfare, juvenile justice, mental health and educational issues. Visit imprintnews.org to learn more.

Last month, with the nation emerging from its darkest stretch of the pandemic, New York state touted how COVID-19 infections in its 11 detention centers for sentenced youth were kept low and remain low.

For the first time, the Office of Children and Family Services posted data backing up its assertion, reporting only 32 coronavirus cases among more than 500 youth residents and 258 staff. The low numbers contrasted sharply with infection rates and hospitalizations that skyrocketed this winter across rural and suburban regions where the lockups are located.

Yet previously unreleased and more detailed state data obtained by The Imprint reveals the low number of positive cases may not fully capture COVID-19s reach among these detained youth: During the first 11 months of the pandemic, youth were quarantined 454 times for suspected COVID-19, while only 94 tests were administered.

The rate of testing in the states general population was roughly 12 times higher than that of the juvenile justice system, which was well below the standard of care designed to prevent spread of infection, said Meghan Peterson, director of the University of North Carolina School of Medicines COVID Prison Project, who reviewed New Yorks data. Among the 94 tests conducted, more than 20% were positive  far higher than the World Health Organizations 5% threshold for too high, and the roughly 1% positivity rate in some other states juvenile justice systems.

During the same period, according to state data, more than 600 employees went on leave for suspected infections with eight hospitalized and two reported to have died.

Tim Donaher, the chief public defender of Monroe County, whose young clients are held in the Industry Residential Center near Rochester, said the scant testing was unconscionable and undoubtedly contributed to the trauma those children suffered by being incarcerated.

Meanwhile, even with mask mandates and public lockdowns in retreat, the risks of infection in detention centers remains high, where most staff and those locked up have not been vaccinated. As of mid-May, fewer than 14% of the detained young people ages 12 to 20, and 33% of staff, reported being fully vaccinated, according to the states Office of Children and Family Services.

Despite the low number of vaccinations and high number of youth and staff with symptoms or known exposure, state officials stuck to their testing practices throughout the deadly pandemic  testing only a fraction of the incarcerated young adults who spend their days and nights in crowded dormitories and day rooms with rotating shifts of approximately 1,200 frontline staff.

In April, The Imprint reported that the state conducted just 26 COVID-19 tests in nine juvenile detention facilities in the first six months of the pandemic. And unlike other large states, it had failed to publicly share infection rates in youth lockups. Three weeks after the story was published, New York officials began posting limited virus information on a state website for the first time.

The practice of incarcerating children is fundamentally rooted in the treatment of Black and brown youth as disposable. The staggering lack of COVID testing provided to New Yorks incarcerated youth, who are predominantly children of color, is further evidence of that fact, Brooklyn state Sen. Jabari Brisport said in a statement. Our children are not disposable and we cannot abide by a system that treats them as such.

Leading experts on COVID-19 and corrections who reviewed the Office of Children and Family Services data for The Imprint agreed: The state almost certainly missed many infections, likely endangering staff and their home communities.

Kids arent as likely to die, but they are a priority in terms of preventing them from spreading the disease, said Dr. Josiah Rich, an infectious disease and corrections expert at The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, who contributed to a landmark study last year on mitigating COVID-19 in detention centers. The problem with outbreaks in youth facilities is you will get staff who are sick, and some of them might die.

Rich added that given the lack of testing, New York probably screwed up here, and the suspected case numbers underscore the urgency of vaccinating all staff and eligible young people.

But in a statement, a spokesperson for Children and Family Services  the agency overseeing the facilities  touted its performance during the pandemic and stressed that the well-being of youth and staff is a top priority.

We at OCFS are extremely proud that our strict adherence to health and safety measures resulted in low rates of infection among staff and youth in our juvenile justice system, said Monica Mahaffey. She added that protections included isolation of youth newly entering the facilities, strict mask protocols, screening and limiting visitors.

The numbers speak for themselves and we stand by our successful record, Mahaffey said.

In response to queries about its testing and quarantine policies, her office provided more than two dozen internal documents. None described when or how testing should occur.

Harriett Tubman Residential Center The Harriet Tubman Residential Center in Sennett reopened in 2018 after it had been closed for several years.

Just one document covered testing of youth  a December letter sent to parents that focused on protocols for returning home. OCFS does not test youth before they transition to the community. There are important reasons for this, the letter states. The agency explained that it declines to test so as not to create any false sense of security for youth or families.

Rich at Brown University described that argument as ridiculous, and typical of some corrections systems nationwide that could have identified infections, but by not testing you have your head in the sand and dont know whats going on.

He said he hoped corrections officials learn from this coronavirus disaster for the next outbreak: We have correctional administrators that dont know much about public health. And we have public health administrators that dont know much about corrections, Rich said. We really needed to get them together on the same page, working together.

The 11 detention facilities run by the Office of Children and Family Services are located outside New York City from the Rochester area to the Hudson River, with one minimum-security facility on Long Island. One site in rural Delaware County was closed to new intakes last year, and at least two more are slated for closure due to the long-term decline of the incarcerated youth population statewide.

Nine of the remaining state lockups are higher-security, reserved for young people convicted of more serious offenses, including robbery and homicide. The barbed wire-encased compounds for youth are the most restrictive in the state, though they provide enrichment services and a focus on rehabilitation not typically seen in adult prisons.

Each facility houses as few as five residents or as many as 60, most in their mid- to late-teenage years. Most youth sentenced to the state-run detention centers come from Long Island, or upstate cities like Buffalo and Rochester.

In interviews, three parents of young people who had been incarcerated in two of the states detention facilities over the past year told The Imprint they never received information about their children being quarantined or tested, or about any suspected or confirmed COVID-19 cases in their facilities. Each requested anonymity out of fear of retribution from the justice system.

To obtain information, a reporter had to file Freedom of Information requests to Children and Family Services. The first request, submitted before the state posted limited COVID-19 data on its website in late April, took four months to be fulfilled; the second request took three months. This lack of transparency on COVID-19 data in youth detention centers earned New York an F grade in a study released in March by legal scholars at University of Texas at Austin. Dozens of other states, including large ones like California and Texas, have posted these COVID-19 infections on public websites since last summer, and some have conducted universal on-site testing.

Although New York did not specify the number of individual children placed in quarantine, the more than 450 quarantine instances suggest as many as 8 in 10 youth housed in 11 detention facilities could have had COVID-19, or were exposed to it.

The data ultimately released to The Imprint provided some information that is not included in the states recently published public portal. For example, at the medium-security Industry Residential Center near Rochester, state officials reported placing children in quarantine 143 times due to suspected COVID-19 symptoms or known exposure to the virus. Yet, only three tests were given to youth from March of 2020 through this January. OCFS also reported 26 "confirmed" staff cases in Industry, yet 99 staff took leave for "suspected" cases, but were not tested by their employer, the state agency.

Similarly, at Brookwood Secure Center in Columbia County, OCFS reported youth in quarantine 56 times due to suspected symptoms or known exposure to the coronavirus. At that facility as well, only three tests were conducted over 11 months.

Meanwhile, a county government news release in late March attributed a rise in the infection rate in the upstate rural region, in part, to infections coming from Brookwood. The announcement was removed from Columbia Countys website shortly after a reporter inquired about it.

OCFS has done a deeply irresponsible job during the pandemic, thats clear in the data, said Katie Schaffer, director of organizing and advocacy at the nonprofit Center for Community Alternatives. Thats been clear anecdotally from families with young people who are incarcerated. Families weren't getting the kind of updates they needed to not feel incredibly anxious.

A spokesperson for the Public Employee Federation, which represents more than 50,000 state employees, including frontline detention staff, expressed similar criticisms.

An agency responsible for the well-being of some of New York's most vulnerable citizens has not done enough to protect them or the staff who work there, said the unions communications director, Rob Merrill. This fresh data clearly shows a higher level of virus exposure, which, had it been provided to the union sooner, would have greatly enabled us to properly assess risk and implement better control measures.

Freelance reporter Steven Yoder contributed to this report. Michael Fitzgerald is a senior reporter for The Imprint, based in New York City. He can be reached at mfitzgerald@imprintnews.org.

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Cayuga County officials are encouraging tenants and landlords whose income was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic to apply for assistance in getting caught up on rent and utilities.

The federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program allows tenants and landlords to apply for rental and utilities arrears payments. New York state, through the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, is making funds available to help eligible households who are unable to pay rent and utilities due to the pandemic. Mobile home and lot rent and utility payments are eligible for assistance.

The OTDA will begin accepting applications at 9 a.m. Tuesday, June 1, at otda.ny.gov/erap, where tenants and landlords can apply for assistance. If eligible, these payments will be made to participating landlords directly.

The state call center number is (844) 691-7368, and Cayuga County renters and landlords who need assistance compiling documentation and/or accessing the online application are encouraged to call the Community Action Programs Cayuga/Seneca at (315) 255-1703 extension 164 as soon as possible.
ROCHESTER  Rochester Mayor Lovely Warren, whose husband was arrested on drug and gun charges last week, told a candidates' forum that she didn't know about the guns found in her house during a police raid.

"I am innocent," Warren, who is seeking a third term as mayor of New York's third-largest city, said at Tuesday's forum sponsored WROC-TV8 and the local chapter of the League of Women Voters.

Warren will face City Council member Malik Evans in the June 22 mayoral primary. Her brief comments at the forum about last week's arrest of her husband, Timothy Granison, were her most substantive since authorities charged Granison with being part of a cocaine distribution ring. Granison has pleaded not guilty.

"I don't have a perfect life," Warren said at the forum, according to the Democrat and Chronicle. "I have a life that is like so many Rochesterians, a life that is imperfect."

Evans did not attack Warren, saying at the forum that the city deserved a substantive debate, not one focused on personal drama or "unnecessary distractions."

Warren is favored in the primary despite being tarred by scandals and a criminal probe herself.
Oil prices settled higher on Wednesday as a drop in US crude stockpiles reinforced expectations of improving demand ahead of the peak summer driving season, offsetting worries that a possible return of Iranian supply would cause a glut.

Brent settled up 22 cents, or 0.3%, to $68.87 a barrel and US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude settled up 14 cents, or 0.2%, at $66.21 a barrel.

Both benchmarks pared losses after government data showed US crude stocks at the Cushing, Oklahoma, storage hub fell last week to the lowest since March 2020. Refiners ramped up utilization rates to pre-pandemic levels.

Gasoline product supplied rose to 9.5 million barrels per day, a proxy for demand, while distillate demand was also higher. Gasoline consumption generally rises beginning around US Memorial Day, which is May 31 this year, when people take to the roads.

Prices found some support from lifting of coronavirus curbs.

"An urge to 'hit the roads' in heading out on vacations that were precluded by the pandemic last year will be supporting the gasoline market," said Jim Ritterbusch, president of Ritterbusch and Associates in Galena, Illinois.

But market players were also closely watching developments in Iranian-US nuclear talks which could lead to lifting sanctions on Iran's energy industry and releasing Iranian oil on the market.

"Prices should remain supported over the summer with the only thing keeping oil from price increases being the potential return of Iranian oil," said Andy Lipow, president of Lipow Oil Associates in Houston, Texas.

Iran's government spokesman Ali Rabiei said he was optimistic Tehran would reach an agreement soon, although Iran's top negotiator said serious issues remained.

Analysts have said Iran could provide additional supply of about 1 million to 2 million bpd if a deal is struck.

Iran and global powers have held talks in Vienna since April to work out steps Tehran must take on nuclear activities and Washington should take on sanctions to return to full compliance with the pact Iran reached with world powers in 2015.

Russia said the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies, a group known as OPEC+, should consider a possible increase in Iranian output when assessing further steps.

OPEC+ is bringing back 2.1 million barrels per day (bpd) of oil production through July, easing cuts to 5.8 million bpd. Their next meeting is set for June 1.
Before she died unexpectedly in January, Ann Beck championed literacy, and she often put her desire to help others, to be of service to the community, ahead of her own needs.

For 11 years, Beck served as executive director of The Literacy Center: Literacy Volunteers of Coconino County, before retiring and moving on to other service opportunities in the Flagstaff community.

But literacy was always close to her heart, said husband Jim Novak. Because the mission of TLC was so dear to Beck, he donated $25,000 in his wifes name to create a legacy of giving that will continue into the future.

Ann was adamant about Literacy Volunteers, Novak said, adding that Beck helped get the organization stable and moving forward during her tenure from 1999 to 2011. It was her passion. She was adamant about keeping it going.

The funds will be placed into an endowment to help support The Literacy Center, said Dianna Sanchez, outgoing executive director.
Sunday, May 23

On this date in 1868, Col. Christopher Kit Carson, who directed the campaign against the Navajos that resulted in their surrender and the exile of about half the tribe to Fort Sumner between 1864 and 1868, died at Fort Lyon, Colorado, just nine days before the June 1 signing of the treaty that allowed the Navajos to return to their homeland.

On this date in 1919, the secretary of the Arizona Livestock Board reported that Cochise County was swarming with cattle rustlers.

On this date in 1927, one person died and several were injured when two Santa Fe trains crashed near Flagstaff.

Monday, May 24

On this date in 1869, John Wesley Powell and his party began their historic exploration of the Colorado River.

On this date in 1915, Arizona and California celebrated the opening of the new Ocean to Ocean highway bridge at Yuma.

On this date in 1925, R.J. Jones of Phoenix, who owned a 160-acre tract of land located a mile and a half from the Casa Grande ruins, announced that the land would be subdivided and a new town called Coolidge would be built.
BENSON: We have to recognize that weve got to work from the same set of facts. And those facts have to be based in evidence and truth, not in political agendas and in partisan efforts. Everyone who sees and knows the truth needs to call on every leader to tell the truth and to continue to remind people what the evidence and the truth is. Secondly, those who refuse to tell the truth  those leaders in particular who continue to propagate the big lie and even codify legislation in furtherance of it, there needs to be accountability. And particularly, there needs to be accountability for the tragedy that we saw in our Capitol on Jan. 6.

BENSON: Im deeply concerned about the future of our democracy and about all of the things that were seeing and have seen on a near weekly basis emerge throughout our country, but particularly in states that were high profile in 2020 -- Michigan, Georgia, Arizona, Nevada -- to consistently propagate the big lie, propagate this idea, this falsehood that the election was anything but safe and secure, to codify legislation in furtherance of that and really undo a lot of the policies that led to such enormous turnout and security in 2020.  I feel very strongly that the battles that we saw around 2020's election ... was just the beginning of what is clearly turning out to be a multi-year, strategic, nationally coordinated, partisan assault on the vote in our country and on our democracy. And we will see another battle in the 2022 elections around that truth and around the security of the vote, around access to the vote. But it's also all going to culminate, I believe, in an effort to try again in 2024 what those democracy deniers attempted to do in 2020 but failed. And in 2024, the bad actors, I believe, will be more coordinated, more strategic, better funded and will have the benefit of doing this work for a number of years. Im deeply concerned about the future health of our democracy.
When a Homeland Security attorney challenged O'Connor at a hearing in October 2019, he thundered that he took an oath to uphold U.S. laws, not to acquiesce when they are flagrantly violated.

For Lizeth -- who spoke to The Associated Press on condition that her full name not be published due to safety concerns -- an OConnor ruling led to a Kafkaesque nightmare.

Lizeth said she fled Santa Ana, El Salvador, in January 2019, on the run from a police officer who demanded sexual acts. Then 31, she never said goodbye to her five children -- ages 5 to 12 -- fearing the officer would discover where they lived.

Her freedom was short lived. She said she was kidnapped near Mexicos border with Guatemala, and her captors drove her in a minivan to Ciudad Juarez, across the border from El Paso, and forced her into prostitution. They threatened others who were held in a large warehouse-style room with having their organs removed and sold. She escaped four months later and entered the U.S. illegally at San Diego.
Leadership in all realms especially in the political one demands specific traits in which leading by example ranks the most vital.

Political leaders determine the course of their followers lives. Worthier ones rally their people to reach a better place, and they accomplish this by following certain attributes that turn ordinary politicians into deserving leaders. In the process, they are transformed into long-standing historical figures whose image survives the years. These attributes are all very salient: vision and purpose; confidence; integrity; respect; courage; humaneness; ability to influence, to inspire, and to delegate; and many others.

Political leaders also keep their word; when they say they will accomplish something, they fulfill their promises. They also act with consistency and take responsibility for their actions and words. Since they are responsible for implementing strategies and policies meant to better serve the interests of the country they govern, the onus is on them to lead their countries to advancement, and they are often recognized for how they govern during times of crisis and how they handle emergencies distinguishably. And leaders are skilful speakers who possess the charisma that captures the attention of listeners and inspires devotion in them. Besides, their image must remain impeccably flawless.

Unfortunately, when these essential traits are not upheld and fall by the wayside, citizens switch off their leaders. They become indifferent and lack regard towards the leader and their country in general. Even worse is when citizens follow a failed leaders approach; then, the country is in deep trouble.

But most importantly, leaders lead by example, and this is the core of todays discussion. The renowned leaders dont lead by only telling others what to do, but by showing them how to do it, by being idyllic examples themselves. A leader sets the tone and framework of how those he leads will function, so when he does well, others will pursue his approach, but when he does poorly, others will imitate his drawbacks. Both models, the exemplary and the unworthy, set the way for followers.

To put it succinctly, leaders embolden and empower followers to act in a certain way.

Mahatma Gandhis most honorable trait was his ability to practice what he preached, and, hence, lead by example. He wore the clothes of the poorest Indians and was a minimalist, owning very few possessions. This symbolized the masses he was hoping to represent.

Despite what Nelson Mandela went through, serving 27 year of imprisonment, he never reacted to racism with racism. Quite the contrary, when he became president, he served as president of the whole nation. It took a leader like Nelson Mandela to play a significant role in turning South Africa around, abolishing apartheid, and leading the country towards multiculturalism.

Quite the antithesis is seen in ex-President Trumps approach, and, consequently, his followers. Trump was reluctant to wear a mask during the Covid-19 pandemic. Many Americans followed his lead maybe causing the US to be worse hit than other countries. When he didnt respect minorities or even distinguished figures, Americans lashed out in an identical fashion. In fact, his remarks incited his followers to pursue the same tone; Lock her up, was parroted after Trump decried ill of Hilary Clinton. After he attacked Ilhan Omar, a congresswoman who has been a US citizen for 30 years, the crowds chanted Send her back, send her back. And finally, refusing to concede, President Trump, during a rally, implied his supporters storm Capitol Hill, and they did.

Now lets focus on some noteworthy traits in a certain exceptional leader.

When a leader places his country above all else and vouches to obliterate anyone who goes against it, he enhances peoples love towards their land. Consequently, they become more appreciative of their country and are concerned with its wellbeing.

When a leader is empathetic towards his people, he empowers them to become empathetic, too. When a leader donates half his salary and half his personal assets and inheritance to assist in building his country, he encourages officials, businessmen, and regular citizens to do the same. Hundreds of projects have been completed by donations.

When a leader speaks softly, he gets others to speak in a similar fashion, as the trait is, hopefully, passed on to them. When he avoids name calling, foul language, and obscenities, it becomes the norm to speak in those terms. Had he shrieked out or bellowed insults, chances are he would have encouraged others to do the same.

When a leader acknowledges and then bestows honours on doers and martyrs, alike, others realize that it is indeed an honour to serve, and die, for ones country. When the cast of a series such as The Choice, or El Ekhtiar, are recognized, other performers excel in repeating a similar series at par with the first one. After a long awaited acknowledgement, over sixty years to be exact, Ex-President Mohamed Naguib had a military base named after him posthumously in Alexandria. Schools across the country are renamed after martyrs who lost their lives defending their country. A dredger gets to be named after ex-Chair of the Suez Canal Authority, Mohab Mamish. It is indeed an honour, but when the leader retreats and asks Mamish to raise the flag over the dredger himself, it is an act of humbleness that deserves note.

When a leader exerts monumental effort to create better standards for his people, others take it upon themselves to act in a similar fashion. They, too, exert their best effort; they aspire for a higher level of efficiency and strive for perfection. When a leader pursues the highest standards and encourages those he leads to do the same, they perform outstanding work. Both the Golden Parade of the Egyptian Kings and Queens and the refloating of the Ever Given mirror these standards that have become the expected norm.

Without doubt Egypt has a leader of exceptional calibre, one who leads by example.
On Monday, May 24, 2021 Brian M. Pierce, an attorney from Muncie, Indiana, announced that his client, Eric Huffman, was filing a federal lawsuit against the Town of Ridgeville, Indiana seeking Declaratory Relief, Damages and a Request for a Jury Trial. The lawsuit stems from Huffmans employment as Town Marshal for the Town of Ridgeville and the actions taken by the current Town Board in regards to his employment status with the Town.

The lawsuit states that after a change in the Town Board members over the last three years, the Town of Ridgeville, began engaging in a continuous pattern of illegal and unconstitutional conduct including, but not limited to, breaching a contract between Huffman and the prior Town Board since Huffman became Town Marshal in September of 2016. The lawsuit states the Town also failed to comply with the Indiana Merit Statute, denying Huffman his right to Due Process under the 14th Amendment of the United States Constitution, denying him his right to Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Association, etc under the 1st Amendment and making conditions so intolerable with the intentions of Huffman finally resigning his position.

Pierce stated that he feels the Town of Ridgeville has made it their mission" to penalize Huffman over personal reasons stemming from prior interactions between Huffman and friends or relatives of the Town Board. Huffmans file records that there have not been any disciplinary actions, write-ups, suspensions of any kind towards the veteran officer.

In speaking with Town Board member, Dodi Vanscyock, this is not the case. After some questionable findings among all departments, not just the police department, we found that there was a definite need to reevaluate our salary ordinance, SOPs and other items in regards to employment and disciplinary actions in all departments, stated Vanscyock.

Included in these questionable items was the previously mentioned contract between Huffman and the Town. The contract guaranteed Huffman various items such as benefits, vacation time and the ability to seek police security employment outside of their employment in Town. Another stipulation was that the use of town police vehicles was permitted within Randolph County. If the vehicle left the county proper documentation and reimbursement was needed for usage. Pay for the position of Town Marshal was allotted at $19 per hour for a 40 hour work week and the sum of $15.50 per hour for a 40 hour work week for his Deputy Marshal plus overtime and benefits. The Town Board felt that over the period of the contract that various dynamics had changed and the contract needed to be updated.

The Town Board then began to take measures to revamp what they felt was not correct with the contract. When asked if the work requirements by the department heads and their staffs had been changed, second of the three member Town Board, Dana Cox, stated no, but the Town Board had. The stupid things that had been done and approved by the prior Town Boards of Ridgeville was not going to be tolerated anymore. You can only ride the free train so long before you get kicked off, stated Cox. This comment was made in regards to Huffman and his employment.

The prior pay scale was in effect until the Town Board tried to pass a Resolution titled 2020-1 adopting a procedure to regulate the Marshals department and Deputy Marshal for the Town of Ridgeville at an August 2020 Board Meeting. The Resolution called for a change in who and how many employees the office would have. The Resolution called for both prior positions to be abolished and for a new staff consisting of part time positions with a day, a night and a deputy marshal position who would work no more than 20 hours each per week. The Town Board would also appoint a Chief Marshal who would have exclusive control of the department with other stipulations including the use of police cars, hours worked and the disciplinary actions if violated.

After this meeting, a social media advertisement was placed on a Town Board members personal page stating the Town was accepting applications for part time officers and a Chief Marshal. Vanscyock explained the Board interviewed 7-8 applicants garnered from this posting.

After further consultation, the Town Board realized that the resolution action could not be taken, as a Resolution cannot amend an Ordinance, the Board rescinded the document. Vanscyock admitted, We were wrong in taking this action as it was not the proper protocol to amend an ordinance. This allowed for a new, Salary Ordinance 2021 to be introduced and later adopted at a February 2021 Board Meeting.

The lawsuit states, that the albeit confusing but relevant, the new salary ordinance called for extensive changes to Huffmans employment, pay, benefits as well as structural changes to the department. Those included a Chief Marshal to be hired at $19 per hour in a full time capacity including benefits and no compensatory time. This new position would set the hours for the part time deputies and reserves. The reserves could be hired by the Marshal at his own will but the part time officers were to be board approved. The part time Deputy Marshal and Deputy officers will get $16 and hour and will have hours set by the Marshal. There is also no comp time and no benefits. The new ordinance did call for those who were employed before this ordinance was adopted (Huffman) would receive $17 per an hour. This action reduced the pay of Huffman by $2 and the loss of benefits and use of the police vehicle after hours.

During this same meeting, the Town Board announced that Jeff Hopkins, also a full time Investigator for the Town of Portland, Indiana would be appointed, effective immediately, as the new full time Chief Marshal. But this ordinance has a directive that the Marshal would receive a $350 salary pay based on a 15 hour work week before taxes and would receive no benefits. The lawsuit states that from the end of October 2020 until February 2021, Hopkins appears to have served without pay and Huffman and the Chief Deputy have continued on as full-time employees with benefits.

Huffman also claims in the lawsuit that Hopkins does not report to work as required per the contract. Instead he continues to work full-time for the Portland Police Department. When Vanscyock was asked how Hopkins can effectively be employed as a full-time employee by two different companies she explained. The position that Hopkins holds with the Town of Ridgeville allows for flexibility such as he does not have to clock in and out, he does not have to patrol unless he feels its needed and he is not required to come into the office. He can do the duties of supervision, paperwork and other tasks from home if needed.

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The lawsuit also claims that after Huffmans police vehicle was totaled in an accident, the Town of Ridgeville refused to replace his vehicle, preventing him from using the remaining vehicle and ultimately leading Huffman to walking on patrol and unable to fulfill the legal duties. Vanscyock claims this is not true as Huffman had the use of a Hum Vee to use for patrol purposes.

Huffman also claims that when he spoke freely at public board meetings and on social media about the need for a properly working replacement vehicle, Cox and Vanscyock began telling individuals that they were going to fire Huffman over the purchase of a used vehicle that they do not think he was authorized to purchase even though a Town Ordinance allowed it.

Huffmans lawsuit also claims that on March 17, 2021 that he continued to publicly discuss matters of public interest in regards to his position such as pay, demotion, ghost employment, etc. prompting an email to be titled Mandatory Directive to all officers prohibiting the following actions: gossiping outside the Ridgeville Police Department about departmental business and no trash talking about any other officer. The directive also required all officers to record who they talked to, any time the officers were on duty. Failure to comply would be grounds for discipline or possible termination. Huffman feels this violates his freedom of speech right. Pierce stated that so far, the only person they can confirm this directive was issued to is in fact Huffman.

Other claims by the Town Board against Huffman include, intimidation, possible destruction of incriminating evidence and the possible theft of equipment removed from a wrecked police vehicle. When the police vehicle was totaled, there was certain equipment that was removed by Huffman and to be returned to the fire or police department locations. This was never found to be done, stated Vanskcyock. Huffman claims he did return the equipment but we never saw it. He also claims that several people hold keys to those offices so anyone could have picked it up.

The Town of Ridgeville currently does not have secured legal counsel due to the lack of interest from area attorneys according to Vanscyock. The main reason she feels is due to the $15,000 budgeted amount to retain counsel is not enough compensation for the time and effort it takes to effectively represent the Town. Jason Welch, Winchester attorney, represented the Town of Ridgeville until early May of 2020 upon which he and then Town Board member Tom Friend both resigned their positions. After Welchs resignation, Aaron Henderson, an attorney from Blackford County, signed on as Town Attorney but only lasted until December of 2020 with the reasons given of his practice becoming to busy and lack of cooperation from the Town Clerk according to Vanscyock. Cox stated that the Town of Ridgeville was a member of AIM, an organization serving as an advocate for Indiana municipalities, and that they would have to provide legal counsel. Campbell Ricci of AIM disagrees stating, We can provide generic legal counsel on ordinances or document creation but we cannot provide legal counsel on matters like this.

Pierce further commented by claiming to have represented 3 other plaintiffs in cases like these. Usually cases like these are settled out of court citing cost effectiveness for the defendants, stated Pierce. We will see what direction the Town of Ridgeville will take."

Arlinda Hardwick, longtime Ridgeville Town Clerk, said that there was no official comment from her office. Hardwick stated that she has obtained personal legal counsel and will direct all comments to be made to them.

Cox has served on the Town Board for three years and when asked if he had any further comments about the case he stated that he had briefly read the claims as of Tuesday morning and the lawsuit didnt come as a surprise commenting, This is in Huffmans nature, before refraining from any further comment.

Welch, Friend and Henderson were all contacted in regards to why they resigned their positions with the Town of Ridgeville but no communication was returned at press time. When Friend resigned from the Town Board Jamie Moyer was appointed and has since resigned and has been replaced by Jeff Kisken as the new third member of the Town Board.

Under the old structure there were two 40 hour a week Marshal and Deputy Marshal jobs being manned by Huffman and a prior Deputy. Now the current structure calls for a 40 hour a week position (Hopkins) that does not have to report to the Town of Ridgeville if he doesnt feel it necessary, a 30 hour a week job (Huffman) and three reserves who can work as little or as much as they want up to 20 hours a week. Thus leaving the the Town to be manned by law enforcement for possibly only 30 hours and quite possibly only by Huffman. When Vansyock was asked how the new structure could justify the Town of Ridgeville as being properly served, her response was, With Hopkins' supervision, we are now seeing citations of ordinance violations and more accountability by officers than under prior administration.

The Town of Ridgeville is also currently engaged in another legal battle with DC Construction, a company who had completed street paving for the Town in the summer and fall of 2020. The lawsuit filed on April 29, 2021, alleges the company presented a claim for over $150,000 to be paid by the Town but the Board has denied paying the claim stating it was $15,000 more than originally agreed. DC Construction states that Cox gave verbal authorization for the extra $15,000 to purchase additional materials to complete the job, but no written documentation can be found to support this claim. Cox denies ever giving approval. Vanscyock calls the lawsuit the craziest lawsuit ever. Both have stated they will fight the claim. The Towns insurance company will handle this matter going forward.

Hardwick stated that this is the second lawsuit in as any months brought forth against the Town of Ridgeville. "In 36 years we have only had two lawsuits brought against the Town of Ridgeville. One for flooding and one over tree removals but now we have had two in a matter of only 2 months.
There was an old Japanese gentleman on the street I had lived. He was short and a little stooped, wandered around always with a pair of slippers and a brown velvet bag hanging on one of his shoulders. Inside the bag was a wooden chess set with a folding board, everyone in our neighborhood was aware of that. He accosted whoever looked unoccupied to play chess with him. His Chinese was broken, just enough to communicate the basic ideas. But he was polite, probably too polite to be taken seriously.

I grew up in Changchun, the city had once been the capital of Manchukuo, a Japan-controlled puppet state in China before and during WW2. There were remains and traces of the Japanese occupation everywhere around us, the imperial palace built for the last Qing emperor at the northeast part of the town where I had never visited, the buildings with mixed Chinese and European style along the Freedom Boulevard and the New People Boulevard that had been mapped out for the Eight Major Bureaus of Manchukuo, the paved streets with shady elms across the city, the tramcars running on rail tracks. The Japanese made the go-around intersections up with small cobblestones of square shapes, just like the ancient streets in Prague or Paris. At the end of the New People Boulevard, it was the new palace that just had the massive foundation laid before the surrender of Japan. The rest of the building was finished in 1950s and became a landmark on a university campus. When I visited my friends' homes, very likely I might walk into a Japanese style apartment with tatami floor and shoji sliding doors.

Growing up in such an environment, it was strange that I had never had another thought on why we had Japanese people wandering in our neighborhood. Such questions had never entered my mind when I lived in Changchun. I was too young to know much about the brutal war and the infamous invasion. But we did learn history in school. The Sino-Japanese wars were the highlights in our curriculum. But for some reasons our teachers didn't make any connection between the history they taught and the real life we lived. They never pointed out that Changchun was once a pivotal site during the Japanese occupation, and never even bothered to bring us to the puppet palace for a field trip.

The chess guy to me was just a chess guy who could not speak Chinese well, who giggled like a child whenever somebody agreed to play with him. Actually, he was not the only Japanese there. Across the road from the apartment my family lived, there was a family that had a Japanese wife and a Chinese husband. Unlike the chess guy, you could hardly tell that the wife was a foreigner because she dressed like most Chinese women and spoke fluent Chinese. The couple had a daughter who loved to sing and dance. She became a kindergarten teacher after graduating from high school and moved to Japan with her mother in 1970s when the diplomatic relations were established between China and Japan. The two of them visited back three or four years later with a toddler boy whose remote control toy car attracted the children in our neighborhood. The husband stayed alone in Changchun for quite while and eventually moved to Beijing to join his son from his previous marriage.

I didn't notice when the chess guy disappeared from the street and had never gotten to know what happened to him. I only heard that he lived with his younger brother who taught Japanese in the university my father worked. The brother seemed having a family, a wife and children, and very busy. We rarely spotted him on the street other than his chess-loving older brother.

Why did we have Japanese men and women lingered in our city? I figured the whole ordeal out only years later. But the individual experiences of war and the vicissitudes of personal emotion became lost stories never told.

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Planning is already underway for the 94th Oscars, which will be held on March 27, 2022, the film academy and ABC said Thursday.

After a year of disruption, innovation and catastrophically low ratings, the Academy Awards are getting back to business as usual. The show will return to the Dolby Theatre for its ABC broadcast and the eligibility window will once again close at the end of the calendar year.

This past year, the academy extended the eligibility window into February and canceled non-televised events like the Governors Awards and the Nominees Luncheon because of the pandemic. All those trimmings are now back on the schedule, with the Governors Awards set for Jan. 15 and the luncheon to be held on March 7. Nominations will be announced on Feb. 8.
Eight-hundred acres of historic property along Cow Creek in the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument has been purchased by the American Prairie Reserve, the group announced on Thursday.

"I hope it will be of good use to the American Prairie Reserve," said Lorraine Mcgough. "It is a place near and dear to my heart."

Her mother's first husband, Art Fogerty, purchased the remote tract in the 1930s, she said. It had been homesteaded by a blacksmith named Shellenberger, she added, who would work on livestock passing through during the steamboat era.

Back then, the boats would unload their wares if they couldn't make it any farther upstream on the way to Fort Benton. The merchandise would then be loaded into wagons and pulled by oxen.

Cow Creek is also historic for the fact that Nez Perce Indians moved through the drainage in September 1887 on their flight north to Canada, with the U.S. Army in hot pursuit. On the way the tribe fought a small band of soldiers guarding unloaded freight at Cow Creek.

Now known as the Nez Perce Trail, the route along Cow Creek was also used by indigenous people for generations before and after the historic journey.
Kenzie took the news in stride.

"I just sat there looking at the ceiling," she said with a laugh. "My mom was really nervous."

Cami said her first thought, of course, was cancer; they have a family history of it. She was relieved when she learned the tumor was benign. In fact, Cami and Kenzie learned from Goodman that the tumor was likely hereditary and that Kenzie had probably been born with it.

Seeing the images, Goodman recognized the danger the tumor posed and the problems it could cause. But it was also an issue he'd seen before.

"It happened to be a problem I was comfortable with," Goodman said.

He felt confident in his ability to operate and remove the tumor. The trick, he said, was getting everything ready quickly. It's a lot of steps to prep for this type of brain surgery and get it all ready in one night.

"That's surprising," Kenzie told Goodman. "Because all you guys were so calm."

That sense of calm was something Cami deeply appreciated that night.

"He made me feel very confident," she said of Goodman.
AUSTIN, Texas  Texas is poised to remove one of its last major gun restrictions after lawmakers approved allowing people to carry handguns without a license, and the background check and training that go with it.

The Republican-dominated Legislature approved the measure Monday, sending it to Gov. Greg Abbott, who has said he will sign it despite the objections of law enforcement groups who say it would endanger the public and police.

Gun control groups also oppose the measure, noting the state's recent history of mass shootings, including those at an El Paso Walmart, a church in Sutherland Springs and a high school outside Houston.

Texas already has some of the loosest gun laws in the country and has more than 1.6 million handgun license holders.

Supporters of the bill say it would allow Texans to better defend themselves in public while abolishing unnecessary impediments to the constitutional right to bear arms. Once it is signed into law, Texas will join nearly two dozen other states that allow some form of unregulated carry of a handgun, and by far be the most populous.

The National Rifle Association was among those supporting the measure, and a spokesman called it the "most significant" gun rights measure in the state's history.
Wyomings lawsuit over a blocked coal export terminal is moot because the company behind the proposal is bankrupt and wont be building the project, the federal government argued in a new filing to the U.S. Supreme Court.

In her brief, U.S. Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar argued that because the Millennium Bulk Terminal project is dead, there is no legal controversy for the nations highest court to consider. Millennium declared bankruptcy in December.

While the Supreme Court has yet to weigh in on the matter, the brief represents the latest obstacle to the effort by Wyoming and Montana to use the courts to pursue those states long-stated desire to ship Powder River Basin coal to overseas markets.
"We can't change the past, but we can change the future for these young people," says Barry Dunn, the university's president and a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe who launched the Wokini Initiative in 2017.

The call for colleges to do more comes at a critical time, as the coronavirus pandemic has exacerbated higher education challenges for Native students, who already had the lowest college graduation rates in the country, said Cheryl Crazy Bull, president of the American Indian College Fund, which awarded Maltais a full scholarship to Harvard Law.

During the pandemic, Native students experienced the sharpest college enrollment decline of any racial or ethnic group, as economic hardships, health disparities and the challenges of remote learning in isolated tribal communities forced many students to quit school, said Crazy Bull.

At Harvard, there's concern that Native students are being asked to take temporary leave from campus due to poor grades at rates higher than those of the overall student population, according to Emily Van Dyke, president of Harvard's Native American alumni group.
Press Release

May 27, 2021 De Lima calls works of human rights defenders a 'beacon' for future generation to fight for a just world Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima has stressed that the efforts and works of human rights defenders in protecting victims of abuses would serve as an inspiration and guide for the future generation of rights activists to carry on the struggle for a more humane and just world. In a letter she penned for fellow political prisoner Dennise Aquino Velasco dated May 24, De Lima said she hopes that they, along with other persecuted rights defenders, would continue drawing strength from each other to continue working and speaking "for those whose voices are not heard." "The widespread and systematic attacks of this administration on our democratic institutions and justice system have exacerbated the struggles of trade unionists such as yourself who have been maliciously red-tagged in order to silence dissent over substandard wages and unfair labor practices," part of De Lima's letter read. Still, the Senator added that "now is not the time to stop defending human rights. Your work, along with those of your colleagues', for the victims of abuses will shine a light that can serve as beacons to the next generation human rights defenders to carry on the struggle for a more just world." Velasco, who is currently detained at Camp Karingal, sent a letter to De Lima last April 8, wherein she thanked the Senator for the latter's unyielding resolve to fight for and defend human rights. In Velasco's letter to De Lima, he also asked the lady Senator to continue supporting the fight for truth and freedom of political prisoners, saying, "Sa ilalim ng madilim na panahon ng panunungkulan ni Duterte ay kinakailangan nating magsama-sama para labanan ang patuloy na paghahasik ng terorismo nito sa mamamayan. Alam ko pong kaisa namin kayo dito dahil kayo mismo ay nakararanas ng mga gawa-gawang kaso dahil sa inyong kritikal at mapanuring tindig sa gobyernong Duterte." It may be recalled that Velasco is among the seven people arrested on charges of illegal possession of firearms and explosives in a series of police operations as the nation marked International Human Rights Day last December 10. They claimed that police planted evidence into their homes. As a political prisoner herself, De Lima said she knows firsthand how the Duterte administration can manipulate information, distort the narrative, and use long-established institutions to silence critical dissent over their failures in leadership and governance but she is confident that her conscience is clear. "In the end, history will not fail us no matter how hell-bent this administration is in twisting the truth. When the last dust settles, trust that you and I and all others like us will be vindicated," she said. De Lima shared that it is already an unfortunate reality that those who stand up for others are the ones being maligned and attacked because injustice has always been a tool for tyrants to silence people into submission. "For as long as there are people who hunger for power, we, the human rights defenders, will always suffer attacks from the powers that be," De Lima said. "That is why it takes an extraordinary amount of courage and tenacity to do what we do; even more so to suffer injustice for fighting for something bigger than ourselves," she added.
Before the vote, she said very few words to her fellow Republicans  a prayer and a couple sentences. She quoted John 8:32, And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free, and added, If you're looking for leaders who will perpetuate the lie, then I'm not your person.

As a result of her continued criticisms of Trumps lies about voter fraud in the 2020 election, and her choice to not fight for her leadership position, she was swiftly removed from leadership in a voice vote.

I had to make a decision about whether or not it was more important to be a member of the House leadership or more important to fight for Wyoming's values and principles and for the restoration of the party," she said.

Although she and her father, former Vice President Dick Cheney, are known for their political savvy, the younger Cheney insisted that her decision to put up little fight when her leadership role was threatened for the second time was not politically driven.

"It's not a political calculation," she said. "There are other political calculations that would have been much easier."
In the indictment, prosecutors provided a list of 791 payments made either directly to Zumas bank accounts or to others for services on behalf of Zuma between October 1995 and June 2005. The money came from companies connected to Zuma's former financial advisor, who was convicted of corruption in 2005. The advisor is accused of soliciting bribes for Zuma from Thales and being the go-between, but also of bribing Zuma for his own business interests.

Some of the payments were for as little as $7 and others for as much as $28,000. They were listed in bank records as Zuma family costs," "Zuma children education" and Zuma household costs, among other descriptions, prosecutors said. They totaled nearly $300,000. It was unclear if those payments included any of the alleged bribes from Thales.

Zuma, who faces separate allegations of graft while he was president at an ongoing inquiry, has often characterized accusations of corruption against him as politically motivated. He even claimed in his papers seeking the removal of chief trial prosecutor Billy Downer that South African prosecution officials had colluded with foreign intelligence agencies over the years to frame him.
Recent rain has slowed the expansion of drought in North Dakota and diminished the pace of wildfires, but conditions have improved little over the week despite the wet weather.

This week's U.S. Drought Monitor map, published Thursday, shows a little under 18% of North Dakota in exceptional drought, the worst of four categories. That's up about 1% from the previous week.

But a large chunk of southwestern North Dakota has been downgraded from extreme drought to severe. Extreme drought now covers 59% of the state, down from 68% last week. However, all of the state except for the extreme southeastern corner remains in some form of drought.

As much as 3 inches of rain fell in parts of the High Plains during the week, according to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Meteorologist Adam Hartman.

"In the Dakotas ... the heavy rainfall, although beneficial, was only enough for minor reductions" in drought, he wrote. "Reports indicate much of this weeks heavy rains was immediately absorbed by the severely dry soils, with no runoff into empty dugouts or ponds.
But Melissa Mentele, who launched the medical cannabis legalization campaign, said that reluctance from physicians and health care providers could result in a bumbling rollout of the program that will ultimately hurt patients. She said she envisioned an environment where patients could receive a recommendation from their family physician, but worried that if health care providers opted out, it would leave room for doc-in-a-box facilities that have little oversight or mission beyond recommending medical pot.

This will create a state filled with patients who have no option, she warned.

While Mentele charged that potential pot patients have been turned away from the state's largest health care systems, an organization that represents health care providers said they are currently working on policies to comply with the law. But as lawmakers consider possible changes to the law, health care providers are in no hurry to start issuing medical pot certifications.

Its impossible to complete until this has played itself out, said Tim Rave, the president of the South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations.
I had always had a very simple premise in my life that I might not be smarter than anybody else, but I can outwork anybody, he said in a 2014 talk at Kennesaw State University in Atlantas northwest suburbs.

He rose to chairman and CEO of Georgia-Pacific in 1993. He later negotiated a $21 billion sale of the company to Kansas-based Koch Industries.

Pete was a transformational leader in Georgia-Pacifics 93-year history and his impact on the company is immeasurable and still with us today," the company's current president and CEO, Christian Fischer, said in a statement.

As a civic leader and philanthropist, Correll left a lasting imprint on many Atlanta institutions. He was co-chair of a commission in 2003 that led to the renaming of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to honor the citys first Black mayor, Maynard Jackson.

Petes impact on Atlanta, Brunswick and the entire state of Georgia was monumental," Fischer said. His service to many of the state's institutions such as Grady, the University of Georgia and Emory University will benefit Georgians for many years to come, he said.

Correll is survived by his wife, Ada Lee; their daughter Elizabeth Richards and son Alston.

A celebration of life is planned for June 2 at First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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A final decision is expected in November, said Army Corps project manager Aaron Quinn. The agency last year delayed the process to do ground surveys on irrigation intakes that could be affected, Quinn said in a statement provided by officials.

Biologists from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks have broadly supported the proposal for flow tests at Fort Peck, saying in 2019 comments to the Army Corps that more naturalized flows would benefit sturgeon and other animals along the river.

Pallid sturgeon live in the Missouri and Mississippi River basins and can grow up to 6 feet long. Theyve been around for tens of millions of years, but saw dramatic population declines after Fort Peck and other dams were built along the Missouri.

They were designated as endangered by extinction in 1990. The proposal to alter Fort Peck's releases is part of a broader effort by numerous state and federal agencies to revive the species.

Gianforte said the Army Corps lacks authority to conduct the test flows from Fort Peck Dam because it has no legal right to the Missouri River's water.
Na au iki a me na au nui o ka ike: The little and the large currents of knowledge.

In preparation for Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, I chose to reflect on the intersections of my past and present work in Biodiversity Heritage Library (BHL) collections, with historical connections to my home in Hawaii. Part of my primary duties as a Conservation Technician with the Smithsonian Libraries and Archives is to stabilize objects before and after digitization for BHL. When I joined the team in 2018, I was assigned the task of mending the librarys 4 volumes of the 1853 edition of William Ellis Polynesian Researches During a Residence of Nearly Eight Years in the Society and Sandwich Islands. The idea was to kick off my new job with a project that would inspire me on a personal level, as an introduction to the value of both the digital and physical preservation responsibilities of our institution.

British born William Ellis is considered the godfather of missionary ethnography. Polynesian Researches vol. 4 chronicles his time spent in Hawaii while serving under the infamous American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions. Credited with bringing Christianity, literacy and western education to Kanaka Maoli (the native Hawaiians), the ABCFM also seeded the islands with the missionary descendants, known as the Committee of Safety, who on 6 July 1887 would hold King Kalakaua at gunpoint to sign a new constitution, effectively granting them control of the government. On 17 January 1893, a group of these same men organized a coup against the last reigning monarch, Queen Liliuokalani, using the imposing presence of the U.S. military to overthrow the sovereign Kingdom of Hawaii. Following the overthrow, the provisional government set up by the Committee was recognized as a protectorate without the permission of the U.S. State Department. Finally, on 16 June 1897, in direct violation of previous treaties with the Kingdom of Hawaii, President Mckinley signed a new treaty granting the fraudulent annexation of Hawaii by the United States. On 23 November 1993, the 100 year anniversary of the overthrow, Joint Resolution 103-150 was signed into law by both chambers of congress and President Clinton. The law acknowledged the historic significance of the illegal overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii and expressed the U.S. governments deep regret.

The legacy and impact of missionary settler colonialism cannot be divorced from the ethnographic literature it produced. Ellis work is important not only for the exceedingly detailed account of early post-contact Hawaii, but also because it offers up the faulty colonizer narrative of the great western savior. Preserving volumes like Polynesian Researches provides historical accounts of endemic and in many cases extinct plant and animal life to researchers studying biodiversity in the Pacific. It may also complicitly privilege that version of information over the Indigenous sources.

I started my treatments with volume 4, specifically because this volume contains early post-contact details of my hometown, Hilo, on Moku o Keawe (The Big Island of Hawaii). My handskills and knowledge of book and paper conservation as a technician are actively developing exclusively from bench training. The Smithsonian Libraries and Archives preservation department operates out of two spaces: a larger off-site Book Conservation Lab and a small annex in close proximity to our digitization suite in the National Museum of Natural History. Familiarizing myself with the materials available in our annex space was a challenge in itself. The nature of the repairs in the annex skew more toward improving the durability of an object to withstand the stress of digitization procedures. Treatment materials are limited in variety and custom toned papers must be made in our larger Book Conservation Lab. In my hasty enthusiasm and novice familiarity with the house style and availability of materials, I made plenty of well intentioned yet questionable aesthetic compromises, but the project was exciting and meaningful never the less.

One of the great values of these volumes are the maps and engraved frontispieces. Each volume contains a scene depicting some cultural practice of the nations Ellis visited. In volume 4, there is a map of the Hawaiian archipelago and an engraving of ka poe kanaka hee nalu (Indigenous Hawaiians surfing), which you can learn more about in this previous article by Julia Blakely on the Smithsonian Libraries and Archives blog.

I began treatment with the frontispiece. The page had several long tears running through the image, as well as losses around the bottom and foredge. Both are common issues for acidic 19th century paper. I gently re-oriented the edges of either side of the tears using a micro spatula and tweezers. This is to ensure that the fibers of the paper lay as flat and as close to their original direction as possible. I then applied wheat paste to the edges to secure them in place. Thin strips of Japanese paper were torn in the shape of the various tears and adhered to the verso using wheat paste again.

After completing further treatment on the text block and case, the volume was digitized and uploaded to BHL via the Internet Archive. Unfortunately, only v.4 was able to be imaged and uploaded before Smithsonian staff began teleworking full time due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

One of the silver linings of our COVID-induced telework status is that we have been able to cross-train in other skills, switching gears to improving and promoting the Smithsonians digital presence to the public. When I signed on to a new telework projectpaginating digitized books (i.e. enhancing metadata at the page-level ) from our digitized collectionsPolynesian Researches vol. 4 was again my first step.

Ive come full circle in the preservation process, from making stabilizing paper repairs, to ensuring the book can be easily navigated by users. The digital object can be used as a surrogate of the physical, preventing further wear and enabling remote access. And I have worked on this item at the page level both physically and digitally, applying care in my conservation treatments and in my metadata enhancements, both crucial to ensuring access to the volume.

In spite, or perhaps because of, the complicated and painful legacy of settler colonialism that endures in Hawaii, working on this set of Ellis Polynesian Researches was a rewarding introduction to my duties at the Smithsonian Libraries and Archives. The task of preserving these early editions both physically and digitally has contributed to my practical understanding of the value of our digitization and conservation departments. I have found it helpful to reconcile my ethical questions about treating these items by looking at their utility for native communities.

When I first moved to D.C., I sought comfort in Halau Hula o Nohona Hawaii, where I could dance and fellowship with other members of the Hawaii diaspora. I shared photos of the things I worked on, and in particular an image from Polynesian Researches showing romanization of common olelo Hawaii (Hawaiian words). I found it funny, if unsettling, to see how the language sounded to missionary ears so many years ago. One of our alakai (leaders) corrected me and used it as a teaching moment. She discussed with me and the other haumana (students) about the way the language has evolved, and the variation in dialect from island to island and from kupuna to keiki (elders and children). The language I grew up hearing on my island and in my family is not the same as what was spoken on other islands, and in some places is still currently spoken in older generations. My hula sister reminded me that despite my ethical reservations about the work as a whole, there is value to Indigenous communities in using these primary sources.

You can explore the 1853 edition of Polynesian Researches, as well as other editions of the title and other works by William Ellis, in BHL.

References

National Archives. The 1897 Petition Against the Annexation of Hawaii. Archives.gov, 15 August, 2016. https://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/hawaii-petition.

Johnston, Anna. The Strange Career of William Ellis. Victorian Studies, vol. 49, no. 3, 2007, pp. 491-501.

Silva, Noenoe K. Aloha Betrayed: Native Hawaiian Resistance to American Colonialism. Durham: Duke University Press, 2004, pages 123-163.

United States, Congress. Public Law 103-150. United States Statutes at Large, Vol. 107  103rd Congress, 1st Session, 1993. U.S. Government Publishing Office, https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/STATUTE-107/pdf/STATUTE-107-Pg1510.pdf.

Press Release

May 27, 2021 Bong Go reiterates urgent need for the Senate to act on local hospital bills; says national government must step in to assist LGUs struggling to provide adequate health services On Tuesday, May 25, Senator and Senate Committee on Health chair Christopher "Bong" Go reiterated his appeal for the passage of local hospital bills which are aimed at improving and establishing public hospitals in different parts of the country. Responding to the concerns earlier raised by Minority Floor Leader Franklin Drilon, Go said that the need for these local hospital measures take precedence over some policy concerns given that the country is still in a public health emergency. "I am fully aware of the Supreme Court ruling on the Mandanas case and its implications on the tax allocation for both the national government and the local government units," said Go, referring to doctrine which clarifies the Internal Revenue Allotment LGUs must receive. "Having said this. I also believe that the bills we are discussing today take precedence over these policy concerns because we should remember we are still in a public health emergency. We are in a health crisis," he added. He said that some LGUs have been coming to the national government for aid, prompting the latter to step in now rather than rely on local government units to take the cudgels. "In fact, last year, the national government had to assist LGUs by providing all cities and municipalities a financial subsidy equivalent to their one-month IRA, and all provinces equivalent to half month IRA," said Go. "This was to help LGUs to respond more effectively to the needs of their constituents and help the national government implement measures to overcome the COVID-19 crisis," he added. The Senator, however, said that he is willing to set aside for now the two bills up for renationalization of hospitals while awaiting the direction of the Executive Branch on the implementation of the Mandanas ruling. Even so, Go expressed his concern for those LGUs that require the bills to address the concerns of their local healthcare systems. "But you know, for me, kung hindi na kaya ng LGU ngayon, dapat pa rin natin silang tulungan ngayon. Hindi ko naman po ito ipagpipilitan sa ngayon," said Go. As for the other local measures, Go explained the need to pass bills upgrading Department of Health-operated hospitals so that funding for the upgrade can be included in the preparations of the 2022 national budget. He added that the implementation of the measures will be in phases, alleviating some of the burden in the first year. "Wala rin naman sigurong problema kung magdadagdag tayo ng medical personnel sa mga ospital na ito. Ngayon nga, nagkakaroon tayo ng emergency hiring," said Go. "Ang issue po dito ay buhay ng bawat Pilipino, buhay po ng mga mahihirap. Ginagawan na rin natin ng paraan para madagdagan ang pool of professional health workers natin. Marami na ngang mga health workers natin ang sumusuko dahil talagang pagod na pagod na po sila. They have been at the forefront of this battle since last year," he added. As for those upgrading LGU hospitals, Go clarified that the national government would only provide support in terms of capital outlay. "The LGUs are funding the operations of these hospitals but they need support from the national government in terms of capital outlay such as infrastructure and equipment," he explained. In his speech, Go also sought the support of his fellow lawmakers for the bills establishing new DOH hospitals. He said that while the Mandanas ruling increases the IRA allocation of LGUs, it does not guarantee that they will have sufficient increase to add funding for health or if they will even prioritize health services. "Kahit na tataas ang kanilang IRA, we have no earmarking and control how much will be allocated for health. Hindi naman po natin alam kung ano ang priorities ng LGUs natin po sa ngayon," he said. Furthermore, the measures will address the gaps in the country's healthcare system exposed by the current pandemic which prompted the national government to build temporary modular hospitals. Go hopes for the bills establishing DOH hospitals to fill such gaps. "[A]ng mga modular hospitals funded by the national government na itinayo natin ngayon temporary po ito," said Go. "Nandidito na po ang pagkakataon, nandidito na po 'yung bills, nandito na po 'yung funding. Manggagaling man po sa national o manggagaling man po local 'yung pera, ang importante po dito, buhay po ng bawat Pilipino ang nakataya dito," he added. "Uulitin ko nasa health emergency po tayo. Bakit hirap tayong ipasa ito ngayon sa Senado? Nagpaplano nga po tayo ng Bayanihan 3, naghahanap ng pondo para sa mga temporary facilities, ito naman po ay permanente na po at makikinabang po ang ating mga anak at apo, at mga kapatid nating mahihirap," Go said. Go, then, emphasized that now is not that right time to dwell further on policy debates as the country is embattled by a pandemic. "This is the time that we need to spend for health care, now more than ever. We should start now! We should learn from this pandemic in order to prepare for the future," he said. "I am not a lawyer, but I have heard it said, 'salus populi est suprema lex'--the welfare of the people is the supreme law. What should guide us, not only in today's deliberations, but in all of our endeavors, is what is best for our people," he stressed further. "Kapag inuna mo po ang kapakanan ng iyong kapwa, at minahal mo ang iyong kapwa Pilipino, hinding-hindi ka po magkakamali," he concluded.
Even if there isnt one on the menu, the thought of a nicely charred Sahlens hot dog is likely to cross the minds of many  if not most  Western New Yorkers this Memorial Day weekend.

In business in Buffalo since 1869, the wieners produced by the family owned Sahlen Meat Packing Co. have become one of the definitive tastes of Western New York. Thats true not only because the frankfurters are delicious and a taste that is unique to our region  but also because Sahlens is a survivor in what was once a crowded field of meat packers and sausagemakers in Buffalo.

Starting in the 1830s, German immigrants brought their tastes for and abilities to produce processed meats to Buffalo. As the decades wore on, Polish and Italian immigrants brought their recipes, processes and tastes here as well.

As the home of one of the nations largest railroad hubs as well as one of the nations largest stockyards, Buffalo naturally became one of the nations largest meat producers.

Through the first half of the 20th century, many of Buffalos great meat packers were bought out by national corporations, but even into the 1970s, there were still a couple dozen or so members of the Greater Buffalo Associated Meat Industry trade group.
Weve been streaming movies for a more than a year now, watching from our homes on tablets and televisions while eating microwave popcorn. Meanwhile, we also watched as anticipated blockbusters in 2020 were delayed and delayed ... and delayed.

Now theyre finally here and we can look forward to a summer movie season back inside theaters. Heres a look at 25 of the summer films that will be playing in theaters.

+4 Buffalo can revel in role it plays in taut monster party 'A Quiet Place Part II' We've all fought family battles on behalf of quietude for those we love. Here's another cannily made 90-minute movie about folks whose enemy is another species' monstrous hearing.

A Quiet Place Part II, opening May 28. For Buffalo, this is the big one not only for the summer but the entire year. Weve patiently waited for this Buffalo-made sequel to have its big-screen premiere for 14 months since its original release date. It opens with early screenings May 27 and a full schedule at nearly every local theater on May 28.

Cruella, May 28. Emma Stone stars as the young Cruella de Vil from 101 Dalmatians. In this origin story, set in 1970s London during the punk-rock revolution, we see how a teen Estella dreamt of being a fashion designer on her way to becoming a villainess. Emma Thompson, Mark Strong co-star.
When Dobbins and Meadors went out to eat weekly, Dobbins regularly invited people who were hungry to sit down and eat with them, Meadors said. He also regularly pulled over his car when he saw people on the street having a dispute and got them to resolve their differences, she said.

Dobbins also was not shy about challenging people's belief systems.

"He said what needed to be said when it needed to be said when others wouldn't," she said.

He also had a skill of retaining information, like a "walking encyclopedia," Meadors said.

Last year, Dobbins took in a sick family member at his home in order to help provide care.

Dobbins was one of the founders of the Stop the Violence Coalition and was a member of the Buffalo Peacemakers, said Pastor James Giles, who knew Dobbins for two decades.

Dobbins was "full of zeal" and dedicated to anti-violence efforts, Giles said.

As Buffalo schools prepare to reopen, parents say that 'we know nothing' In the Buffalo Public Schools, parents say they haven't gotten the answers they need to make informed decisions about whether to send their children to school.

The MVP organization, founded in 2018, was about to celebrate the completion of its third year of work in the city when its founder fell ill.

Dobbins' death drew public statements from community leaders and elected officials.
Two men were arrested and 1.5 kilos of cocaine, three loaded handguns and cash were seized as part of an investigation by the Erie County Sheriff's and Buffalo Police narcotics units, the sheriff's office announced Thursday.

The first arrest took place Tuesday evening in the parking lot of the shopping plaza at 2634 Delaware Ave. in Buffalo following a weeklong investigation.

Deputies approached a vehicle and observed what they believed to be a drug deal in progress, sheriff's officials said. The driver, identified as Luis Bonilla, 27, of Depew allegedly tried to drive away but deputies stopped him and took him into custody.

Investigators searched the vehicle and allegedly found two loaded handguns  a 9 mm and a 5.7 mm  and about a half kilo of cocaine.
The wealth centers will offer standard financial services like deposits, mortgages, wealth and advisory. But they will also offer features for globally mobile and affluent customers such as multicurrency banking, enhanced cross-market account opening and digital international banking services, he said.

The wealth centers won't serve customers with balances of less than $75,000 or small businesses with less than $5 million in turnover. HSBC expects its number of U.S. customers to drop to 300,000, from 1.4 million today.

Noel Quinn, HSBC's group chief executive, said of its U.S. retail banking business: "They are good businesses, but we lacked the scale to compete. Our continued presence in the U.S. is key to our international network and an important contributor to our growth plans."

"This next chapter of HSBCs presence in the U.S. will see the team focus on our competitive strengths, connecting our global wholesale and wealth management clients to other markets around the world," Quinn said.

The branches Citizens acquired will give the bank access to new markets, said Rory Sheehan, Citizens' vice president of media relations. "We are pleased with our existing branch footprint in Buffalo and appreciate the opportunity to continue to serve our customers here."
By next week we should have a schedule now that the moneys all in place, he said.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony and construction were scheduled for last year but the Covid-19 pandemic delayed it.

The monument's design is a matrix that serves as a timeline and map of longitudinal coordinates, according to the committees website. Each of the 12 black concrete pillars will be 10-feet tall and 3-feet wide and placed in chronological sequence to correspond to the dates of each of the countrys 12 military conflicts.

The matrixs longitudinal coordinates represent the location where the war began. The spacing between the pillars represents peace time between each war.

The tops of the pillars will illuminate, representing candles that families would put in their windows as a beacon to guide a soldier home. The light emanating from the top of each pillar will glow continuously as an eternal reminder of the commitments made by African American veterans.

The design was created by Jonathan Casey and the team at Solid 716.

There also will be audio capabilities within the monument that will work through a smartphone app to allow visitors to hear  as well as read  information, Galloway said.
CHICAGO (AP)  Kevin Clark, who played drummer Freddy Spazzy McGee Jones in the 2003 movie School of Rock with Jack Black, was killed when he was struck by a car while riding his bicycle along a Chicago street early Wednesday.

Police said Clark, 32, was struck after running a red light in the citys Avondale neighborhood. Clark was riding east on Logan Boulevard when he was struck by a vehicle heading south on Western Avenue, a witness and the driver both told responding officers, according to a Chicago Police Department crash report.

Authorities say emergency responders found Clark partially under the car. Clark was taken in critical condition to Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead a short time later. Authorities say the 20-year-old woman driving the car was issued several citations, but didnt give additional information.

After starring in School of Rock with Black, Clark continued pursuing drumming. Most recently, he played in the band Jess Bess & The Intentions, which made its debut performance Saturday at Legendary Wooden Nickel in the Chicago suburb of Highwood.

In a tweet, Black called Clarks death devastating and that he was heartbroken that it came too soon.
For decades, experts have been predicting that, someday, water would become a scarce commodity in parts of the country. When that happened, they said, the eyes of the drought-stricken would turn toward the Great Lakes.

Get ready.

Climate change is parching the nations western states. Wildfires burn out of control as rainfall declines and water sources shrink. Around the Great Lakes  the reservoir of 84% of the continents surface fresh water  levels have either remained consistent or risen, sometimes in destructive ways, as residents of Lake Ontarios south shore can attest.

Covetous gazes from dried-out states are as predictable as they are understandable. But taking Great Lakes water isnt the answer to their problems. Americans need to adapt to the changing climate, not act as though they can pay their way out of it.

The problems are real enough. In California, Gov. Gavin Newsom has issued drought orders covering 41 counties. A wildfire has already broken out in Western Los Angeles. The United States Drought Monitor reports that 84% of the West suffers from drought conditions, with 47% rated as severe or extreme.
If you ever feel like complaining about prejudiced mistreatment for whatever reason just remember one common thread of equality. Over a million people of mixed backgrounds were killed in Americas wars to protect our freedoms. If you think maybe because of your race, national origin, gender, age or nationality you are overlooked, dont forget America as the worlds melting-pot sent thousands upon thousands of men and women of various differences to fight and defend our principals who were killed or wounded. Whether our ancestors, parents immigrated here or if we were born here, the many of us stood the ranks to protect our country in times of war

We all need to earn our own personal respect and our place of honor within our communities even if we do not have to fight in wartime, not a day should we waste getting our lives on tract. There are many financial programs our government offers to help us to get established. Of course the more we can work towards establishing our successes on our own then the more we will be able to stand tall and firm as individuals. Self-pride is the ultimate reward for the efforts we put forward to become stronger individuals.

I hope this Memorial Day, we all remember those killed or wounded were posthumously or presented with a Purple Heart Medal that can be seen in many signs and flags erected and flying in many areas of Western New York.
Press Release

May 27, 2021 Senate OKs bill expanding protections for children versus online sexual abuse, exploitation The Senate today approved on third and final reading a bill that aims to expand and improve government protections for children against online sexual abuse and exploitation. Voting 23-0, the senators passed Senate Bill No. (SBN) 2209, also known as the proposed Special Protections Against Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) Law, or the Anti-OSAEC Law. Sen. Risa Hontiveros, chair of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality, and sponsor of SBN 2209, said that the measure is a much-needed update of existing laws to better protect children against acts of sexual violence, abuse and exploitation in the online sphere. "It is time that we put an end to the rampant online sexual abuse and exploitation of children in the country. Let's make sure that there will be no more predators and abusers who will be able to avoid our laws, and that there will be no more child victims subjected to such horrible acts," Hontiveros said. Hontiveros explained that the bill expands upon laws like the Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009 (RA 9775) and plugs gaps in the law by defining and penalizing online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC) as a separate crime from those punished under current laws like the Special Protection of Children against Abuse, Exploitation and Discriminaton Law (RA 7610) and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act (RA 9208.) The bill, Hontiveros said, also empowers law enforcers with additional tools to investigate and prosecute Filipino and foreign perpetrators of OSAEC, particularly those hiding behind the veil of anonymity provided by online platforms and applications. Another key feature of the bill, she said, is that it imposes additional legal duties on internet intermediaries - such as internet service providers, web hosting providers, online payment system providers, social media networks and others- to adopt systems of preventing, detecting, blocking and reporting acts of OSAEC. "This means that social media companies like Facebook may be duty-bound under law to block and remove material involving child sexual abuse and exploitation within 24 hours from receipt of notice, preserve such evidence in their possession, and devise procedures of preventing, detecting, blocking and reporting any similar material," Hontiveros said. To help prevent the entry of predators like Peter Scully - the Australian national dubbed the "World's Worst Pedophile" who was arrested in the country in 2015 - into the Philippines, the bill will also bar entry into the country of all convicted perpetrators of OSAEC in other jurisdictions, as well as aliens being investigated upon by Philippine authorities for involvement in OSAEC activities. Likewise, Hontiveros said that a registry of foreign and local OSAEC offenders will be maintained and regularly updated by government under the bill. A new government body - the National Coordination Center against OSAEC (NCC-OSAEC) - will be also created to coordinate government efforts against OSAEC and to receive tips and reports of such activities. "Sadly, the Philippine has become one of the global hotspots of child sexual abuse and exploitation. According to the UNICEF back in 2016, we were one of the top ten countries producing child sexual abuse and exploitation materials. This problem has only gotten worse with the COVID-19 pandemic, since OSAEC cases reportedly increased by 264.6 percent," Hontiveros said. "We have a shared responsibility to end the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. Armed with effective legislation, we should work as one community towards stopping these horrible acts against young Filipinos everywhere," Hontiveros concluded.
Privacy groups in Europe have filed complaints against Clearview AI for allegedly breaking privacy laws by scraping billions of photos from social media sites like Facebook, Bloomberg has reported. Watchdog groups like Privacy International have taken legal action against the company in Austria, France, Greece, Italy and the UK, telling regulators that the practices "are incredibly invasive and dangerous."

Extracting our unique facial features or even sharing them with the police and other companies goes far beyond what we could ever expect as online users, Privacy International's Ioannis Kouvakas told Bloomberg.

Clearview has been controversial since it was first revealed. The company has an immense database of faces taken from social media and uses AI to compare those to images from security cameras or other sources. If caught on camera anywhere in public, law enforcement can use that image to extract a wealth of information about you, effectively killing any semblance of personal privacy.

Thousands of public law enforcement agencies have adopted the tool, despite the technology being in a legal grey area. Authorities in the UK and Australia opened a joint investigation into the company last year, and the US Senate recently introduced a bill to block government agencies from buying Clearview data. On top of that, Twitter, Google and YouTube have all sent Clearview AI cease-and-desist letters, alleging that Clearview violates their terms of service.

The EU has previously expressed "concerns" over facial recognition technology like that used by Clearview AI. Last year, the company said that its "image-search technology is not currently available" in Europe, according to Bloomberg. However, Privacy International notes that "your face could be stored indefinitely in Clearview AIs face database, accessed by a wide variety of strangers, and linked to all kinds of other online information about you."
Kelowna, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 27, 2021) - Enduro Metals Corporation (TSXV: ENDR) (OTCQB: ENDMF) (FSE: SOG-FF) ("Enduro Metals" or the "Company") is pleased to report a new polymetallic vein system has been identified on the northern end of the Cuba Trend. The vein system, which is now known as Havana is the largest geochemical anomaly along the trend. The area is located approximately 1,500m directly west of the Chachi Central Zone (see news release dated February 18th, 2021). Chachi and Havana (part of the Cuba Trend) are 2 of 4 major systems within the Company's 638 square kilometre Newmont Lake Project situated in the heart of BC's prolific Golden Triangle.





To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/6406/85480_ce17715ae4bfc925_002full.jpg

Figure 1: Cross-section of Line 7450M; the first and only induced polarization ("IP") geophysical work ever completed over the Havana Target. A subvertical chargeable conductor is prominent within the limestone host rock as is seen on surface. A multi-element soil anomaly is coincident with the geophysics, as well as rock sampling along strike where the vein is exposed on surface.

Highlights:

A multi-element vein system has been identified as the possible source of the 1,800m long Havana geochemical anomaly.

A sample of the quartz-barite vein on surface assayed 1,277 g/t silver, 4.51% copper, 1.11% zinc, and 0.21% lead. Another sample 60m along strike assayed 854 g/t silver, 5.34% copper, 4.34% zinc, and 1.53% lead.

An induced polarization ("IP") geophysical survey line over the target identified an anomaly coincident with the surface geochemical anomaly.

The company is currently investigating a possible link between Havana and Chachi - located 1,500m west of Havana.





To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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Story continues

Figure 2: Plan view map of Havana in close proximity to the Chachi Central Zone (CCZ). Soil geochemistry at Havana suggests the system is 1,800m in length.

Cole Evans, CEO of Enduro Metals commented, "The Havana area is the strongest silver anomaly across the Newmont Lake project by a considerable margin and we have now identified what could be the source for that anomaly. By applying a systematic, data-driven approach to exploration, we have developed a strong case for a large-scale, relatively easy access silver and copper system over a multi-kilometre area. With this new knowledge in hand, we are now investigating the possible links between Chachi and Havana, as well as viewing plans to increase the scope of the 2021 exploration drilling program by 2.5 - 3x larger compared to 2020. More details on this will be available shortly."

QAQC / Analytical Procedures

Core samples from the Newmont Lake Project were sent to MSA LABS' preparation facility in Terrace, B.C., where samples were prepared using method PRP-910. Samples were dried, crushed to 2mm, split 250g and pulverized to 85% passing 75 microns. Prepped samples were sent to MSA LABS' analytical facility in Langley, B.C, where 50g pulps were analyzed for gold using method FAS-221 (fire assay-AAS finish). Gold assays greater than 100 g/t Au were automatically analyzed using FAS-425 (fire assay with a gravimetric finish). Rock samples were analyzed for 48 elements using method IMS-230, multi-element ICP-MS 4-acid digestion, ultra-trace level. Silver assay results greater than 100 g/t Ag and copper, lead, and zinc greater than 10,000ppm were automatically analyzed by ore grade method ICF-6.

Enduro Metals Corp conducts its own QA/QC program where five standard reference material pulps, five blank reference material samples, and two field duplicates are inserted for every 100 samples when analyzing core samples.

Qualified Person

The technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Mr. Maurizio Napoli, P. Geo., Director for Enduro Metals, a Qualified Person responsible for the scientific and technical information contained herein under National Instrument 43-101 standards.

About Enduro Metals

Enduro Metals is an exploration company focused on it's flagship Newmont Lake Project; a total 638km2 property located between Eskay Creek, Snip, and Galore Creek within the heart of northwestern British Columbia's Golden Triangle. Enduro entered into an option agreement to acquire 436km2 from Romios Gold Resources who has carefully amalgamated the area since 2005 from numerous smaller operators. Remaining terms on the option agreement are a $1,000,000 CAD cash payment, and issuance of 4 million Common Shares to Romios Gold Resources. Romios will retain a 2% Net Smelter Returns Royalty (an "NSR") on the Newmont Lake Project, or on any after-acquired claims within a 5 km radius of the original boundary of the project, which may be reduced at any time to a 1% NSR on the payment of $2 million per 0.5% NSR. The remaining 202km2 is owned 100% by Enduro and was acquired via staking or cash purchase. Building on prior results, the Company's geological team have outlined 4 deposit environments of interest across the Newmont Lake Project including high-grade epithermal/skarn gold with the recent discovery of porphyry mineralization underneath the deposit along the McLymont Fault, copper-gold alkalic porphyry mineralization at Burgundy and 72 Zones, high-grade epithermal/skarn silver/zinc at Cuba, and a large 9km x 4km geochemical anomaly hosting various gold, silver, copper, zinc, nickel, cobalt, and lead mineralization along the newly discovered Chachi Corridor.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors,

ENDURO METALS CORPORATION

"Cole Evans"

President/CEO

For further information please contact:

Sean Kingsley - Director of Communications

Tel: +1 (604) 440-8474

Email: info@endurometals.com

As a continued effort to keep investors, interested parties and stakeholders updated, we have launched new communication initiatives. If you have any questions online (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram) feel free to send direct messages or a post and include the hashtag #askENDR.

To book a one-on-one 30-minute Zoom video call directly click here: https://endurometals.youcanbook.me

Website: https://www.endurometals.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation (collectively herein referred to as "forward-looking information"). Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Enduro's actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "could" or "should" occur.

Forward-looking statements in this document includes statements, but is not limited to results, analyses and interpretations of exploration and drilling programs; our grassroots exploration program, our mining (including mining methods), expansion, exploration, and development activities, geological and mineralization interpretations and the plans, results, costs, and timing thereof. Although Enduro believes the forward-looking information contained in this news release is reasonable based on information available on the date hereof, by their nature forward-looking statements involve assumptions, known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

Examples of such assumptions, risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, assumptions, risks and uncertainties associated with general economic conditions the effect of a pandemic and particularly the COVID-19 outbreak as a global pandemic on the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations and the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on our workforce, suppliers and other essential resources and what effect those impacts, if they occur, would have on our business, financial condition and results of operations; assumptions regarding expected capital costs, operating costs and expenditures, production schedules, economic returns and other projections; ; adverse industry events; future legislative and regulatory developments in the mining sector; the Company's ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources, and/or inability to access sufficient capital on favorable terms; mining industry and markets in Canada and generally; the ability of Enduro to implement its business strategies; competition; and other assumptions, risks and uncertainties.

This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of our forward-looking information. Although we have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results, actions, events, conditions, performance, or achievements to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results, actions, events, conditions, performance, or achievements to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended.

The forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the expectations of the company as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. While the Company may elect to, it does not undertake to update this information at any particular time except as required in accordance with applicable laws.

For US Investors

Enduro Metals cautions that this release has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the securities laws in effect in Canada, which differ from the requirements of U.S. securities laws. Information included in this media release have been prepared in accordance with Canadian National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). NI 43-101 is a rule developed by the Canadian Securities Administrators which establishes standards for all public disclosure an issuer makes of scientific and technical information concerning mineral projects. Canadian standards, including NI 43-101, differ significantly from the requirements of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and information contained herein may not be comparable to similar information disclosed by U.S. companies.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/85480
The announcement follows prime minister Boris Johnsons commitment, made in a speech earlier this month, that the summit will be carbon-neutral. Photo: Ray Tang/Xinhua via Getty Images

The UK government has confirmed that the G7 Summit in Cornwall will go green this year, complying with the internationally recognised quality standard for sustainable events management.

The announcement follows prime minister Boris Johnsons commitment, made in a speech earlier this month, that the summit will be carbon-neutral.

Sustainability measures being used for the summit include emphasis on local and seasonal produce in the catering, with priority given to sourcing produce and goods within 100 miles of Carbis Bay. This also includes recycled stationery, hand-carved table and natural soap.

As well as commissioning Cornish companies to provide local and sustainable products, the summit will also use sustainable energy sources and cleaner fuels like HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) instead of diesel for any onsite generators.

Event organisers are also working to ensure the summit is free from single-use plastic wherever possible.

In addition to this, the government is aiming to ensure that event suppliers are delivering wider social value, such as mentoring programmes for those left unemployed by COVID-19, careers workshops and online tutorials in digital and virtual skills.

Read more: Bank of England puts climate at heart of bonds plan in green push

Tackling climate change and preserving the planets biodiversity are key priorities for the UKs presidency of the G7, with the prime minister seeking commitments from G7 members to support the transition to net zero, kick-start a green industrial revolution, and build climate change resilient economies around the world, the Cabinet Office said.

It has also confirmed four global offsetting projects, including an improved cookstoves project in Uganda, a composting facility in Vietnam and biogas reuse in Thailand.

In the fight against climate change, it is vital that we lead by example  which is why the G7 Summit is going to be a carbon neutral event, said Alok Sharma, COP26 president-designate.

Story continues

Our global projects such as hydropower in Laos will help to off-set emissions generated by the gathering of world leaders and every coffee cup, pen and notepad used at the Summit will be recyclable or made entirely from recycled materials.

Our carbon neutral, sustainable G7 Summit is an opportunity to show the world the UK is serious about uniting global leaders to deliver genuine climate action.

Watch: Raab: G7 nations agree to promote human rights and democracy

It comes ahead of the UK hosting COP26 in Glasgow later this year, when world leaders will gather to agree and commit to sweeping international action to tackle climate change and secure the future of the planet for generations to come.

The conference, which is being held between 1 and 12 November, will be the largest summit the UK has ever hosted. It will have dozens of world leaders in attendance and bring together representatives from nearly 200 countries, including experts and campaigners.

It was originally scheduled for November 2020 but was delayed by a year due to the coronavirus pandemic. It has been described as the most significant climate event since the global Paris Agreement was secured in 2015.

In January, Alok Sharma resigned from his role as UK business minister in order to lead the United Nations COP26 climate change summit.

Sharma told Boris Johnson that he would rather give up his position as business secretary than leave his role in the climate change envoy.

Watch: Raab: G7 nations agree to promote human rights and democracy
'School of Rock' star Kevin Clark, 32, killed by driver in Chicago

Kevin Clark as a young teenager in "School of Rock." Paramount Pictures

Kevin Clark, one of the young stars of the 2003 movie "School of Rock," has died at age 32.

A driver struck Clark, who was biking in a Chicago neighborhood.

"School of Rock" was Clark's sole acting credit. He went into a full-time music career.

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Kevin Clark, the "School of Rock" actor, died early Wednesday morning after a driver struck him while he was riding his bike, the Chicago Sun-Times reported. He was 32.

Clark was riding about 1:20 a.m. Wednesday in the Avondale neighborhood of Chicago when a driver struck him in an intersection. Clark had run a red light, the driver and a witness told the police, according to the Chicago Tribune. The driver, a 20-year-old woman, was issued citations.

Paramedics took Clark to the Illinois Masonic Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 2:04 a.m.

Clark costarred in the 2003 movie "School of Rock" when he was about 14 years old, playing opposite Jack Black and an ensemble of child actors. He played the class band's drummer, Freddy "Spazzy McGee" Jones.

Clark in "School of Rock," and in a recent social-media photo. Paramount Pictures; Kevin Clark/Facebook

Following his appearance in "School of Rock," Clark never acted in a major film again but continued working as musician. He played in a number of Chicago bands over the years, including his most recent project, Jess Bess and the Intentions.

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The technology of scanning and documenting is advancing so quickly, Jarosz said. Its a fairly efficient operation.

Jarosz agreed that too much of the areas history has been lost when buildings with unique architecture are torn down.

Weve taken down rail stations in Milwaukee, and there are almost no images, Jarosz said. We want to document it properly.

Chippewa Falls resident Chuck Nagle, founder of the Cobban Bridge Preservation Inc., contacted Krueger and Jarosz, seeing their interest in coming to the area and scanning the bridge. They jumped at the opportunity.

They saw the value in it, Nagle said. This thing is going away. It will be like a lost family member. This is an icon.

Nagle and his group had submitted a proposal to the states Department of Transportation to relocate the bridge onto a nearby cornfield in the town of Sigel, with the idea of placing the quarter-mile-long bridge on a cement slab. The idea was to make it part of a roadside park. However, WisDOT rejected the plan.

When it was built in 1908, the Cobban Bridge crossed the Yellow River in the town of Anson. It was moved to its current location sometime between 1917 and 1919.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  Philippine internet service provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. is officially taking part in the construction of a new subsea cable system as it entered into "definitive agreements" with Keppel Telecommunications & Transportation.

The listed fiber internet provider on Thursday said it is set to spend approximately 5 billion for the whole Bifrost Cable System.

The undersea cable system  which will span more than 15,000 kilometers  aims to directly link Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Guam, and the west coast of North America.

Under the agreements, Converge has been granted an Indefeasible Right of Use (IRU) for one fiber pair on the main trunk of Bifrost Cable System.

Both parties will also establish a branch on the underwater cable system that will land in Davao. Converge, meanwhile, will be appointed as the landing party for the Davao branch segment.

"The additional Davao branch for the Bifrost Cable System will significantly increase internet speeds and network diversity for businesses and consumers in the Philippines for a better digital experience," Dennis Anthony Uy, CEO of Converge, was quoted as saying in a disclosure to the local bourse.

"Our investment into this cable system also gives us two direct international links, one going to Singapore and the other one going to North America with a design capacity of up to 15Tbps (terabits per second) in each direction," the Pampanga-based businessman added.

The Bifrost Cable System project is expected to be completed by 2024, Converge ICT said.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  S&P Global Ratings has retained its credit rating for the Philippines despite the immense COVID-19 health crisis, noting the national economy is beginning to recover.

The global debt watcher said it affirmed its BBB+ credit rating for the country. A notch closer to the minimum rating for the A level, this attests to the national economys stability and the governments ability to pay its loans. A better rating allows nations to avail cheaper debts overseas.

[W]e believe the Philippines will continue to have good economic recovery prospects once the COVID-19 pandemic is contained, and that the government's fiscal performance will strengthen accordingly, said S&P in a statement on Thursday.

The credit rater also maintained its stable outlook for the Philippine economy, expecting it to bounce back to healthy rates of growth. With the better containment of the pandemic, the states fiscal performance will materially improve, it said.

Although the government's fiscal and debt settings have deteriorated due to the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated extraordinary policy responses, its long track record of fiscal prudence provided a buffer to key metrics, explained S&P.

It noted that the Philippines net debt rose to 38.5% of gross domestic output in 2020 from 2019s 28.9%. While S&P expects this will jump to 41.7% this year with authorities providing support to an otherwise fragile economic recovery, it notes this figure is comparable or lower than that of the countrys international peers.

The government has resorted to borrowing both domestically and multilaterally as it strengthens its war chest against the highly contagious diseases. Loans also cover its procurement of COVID-19 shots.

While S&P expects economic output to bounce back at a slow pace this year  the recent surge in coronavirus infections in Luzon being a huge factor  it still forecasts a 7.9% GDP growth in 2021.

This will be largely due to base effects, but will also be driven by wider deployment of vaccines, a recovery in the global economy, and the government's expansionary fiscal measures, it said, adding more inoculations will allow economic activities to normalize faster toward year-end.

S&Ps forecast is way above the economic teams downscaled 6-7% growth target range for the economy this year.

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez welcomed the rating affirmation, noting how the countrys solid financial buffers and prudent fiscal management provided a relatively strong position to come up with funds for its pandemic response without touching off a worrisome debt situation down the road.

The national outstanding debt has breached 10.7 trillion as of end-March, according to data from the Treasury Bureau.

The finance chief likewise said the development supports the hope of reverting the Philippines debt and deficit ratios and growth trajectory to pre-COVID-19 levels.

The move of S&P to keep the countrys BBB+ credit rating echoes our view that the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the economy will be transitory and that the Philippines continues to enjoy bright medium-term growth prospects, said Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin Diokno.

S&P likewise said it hopes economic growth will speed up all the more in 2022 as COVID-19 vaccinations further pick up and the health crisis becomes more contained.

The Philippines currently remains in recession, with a 4.2% contraction in the first quarter of the year succeeding a 9.6% full-year shrinkage in 2020 as quarantine restrictions continue to hold back consumer and business activity.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines)  Long before the COVID-19 pandemic started, Philippine-brand Hygienix has already built a solid following and reputation for its innovative and effective health and hygiene products.

For years, products like Hygienix Germicidal Soap, Hygienix Germ Kill Alcohol, Hygienix Hand Gels, and Hygienix Hand Sprays have been considered household partners in ensuring cleanliness and safety.

Manufactured by Splash Corporation, a subsidiary of India-based company Wipro Consumer Care and one of the leading local players in the personal care industry, Hygienix has evolved from being a simple household staple to becoming a true essential amid the pandemic. This is primarily because of the products' germ-killing properties, moisturizing formula, refreshing scent, and affordable price.

As the health crisis affected more nations, the reputation and popularity of the Hygienix brand flourished as it started selling soaps, hand sprays, and hand gels in the Middle East, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and China, which were well received by said markets.

PHOTO FROM HYGIENIX

However, going global meant not just exporting existing products for Hygienix, but also expanding the brand overseas. With the positive reception and increasing demand for germicidal products in their respective countries, Wipro Consumer Care companies in India, Malaysia, and China decided to expand their personal-care portfolio to include manufacturing germicidal products and adopt the brand Hygienix.

Considering the local demand of their market, they launched the hand sanitizer gel, hand spray, body wash, hand wash, and wipes last September 2020. Simultaneously, Malaysia and China were also able to provide the anti-bacterial requirements of other neighboring countries.

With germicidal products now considered a life essential, Hygienix will continue to introduce other formats that also highlight its germ-killing and moisturizing capabilities. Even if vaccination programs have been rolled out to combat COVID-19, Filipinos everywhere can take pride in the fact that a homegrown brand like Hygienix is now crossing more borders and earning the publics trust in their mission to #FightWorldGermination.

For more information about, Hygienix, you may follow their Facebook page. Also, watch the latest commercial from the brand.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  All essential workers on the ground may soon get their COVID-19 vaccine doses, under a more "simplified" classification being drafted by the government for the A4 priority group.

Metro Manila Development Authority Chairman Benhur Abalos bared on Thursday that the government is considering revising the new definition of A4 in its new guidelines, and mayors have so far agreed to this recommendation at Wednesday's Metro Manila Council meeting.

"Noong una, ang classification kasi ng A4 magulo eh, maraming nakalagay," Abalos told CNN Philippines' The Source. "Sabi simplehan na lang natin ito."

[Translation: Before, the classification of A4 is confusing, a lot of groups are listed there. There is a recommendation to simplify this.]

But A4 workers who are currently working within the confines of their homes may not be prioritized immediately.

"It will be all workers now except for those working from home, who will be eligible now for vaccination," the former Mandaluyong City mayor said.

Abalos did not clarify whether other workers from the succeeding priority groups will still be added to the list. He said the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases will come up with the revised guidelines within the day or tomorrow.

"We are looking if it can be approved by this afternoon or sana by tomorrow pwede na para masimulan na ang pagbabakuna (hopefully by tomorrow so we can begin the vaccination)," Abalos said. "Mamaya magmi-meeting kami ng IATF (We will meet with the IATF later) and I hope this will be approved because the mayors really support this recommendation."

Abalos also said the government is looking at creating an "express lane" for A1 to A3 groups who have not yet completed their doses, while the vaccination drive for the A4 group is ongoing.

Medical frontliners belong to A1, senior citizens are under A2, while the A3 group consists of people with comorbidities.

National Task Force Against COVID-19 Deputy Chief Implementer Vince Dizon previously said in a briefing that immunization of essential workers, specifically in areas with high COVID-19 cases, can start by June.

Simultaneous vaccination will initially start in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, Pampanga, Batangas, Metro Cebu, and Metro Davao, or the NCR+8.
In what was, so far, the best baseball game of the week, the Jaguars pulled their 33rd win out of the fire and salvaged a gem of a start from their star pitcher.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  Black sand mining has been massive along the Luzon coastline with Chinese miners extracting the mineral with heavy equipment and shipping them out in barges, according to a lawmaker from the Singson clan of the Ilocos region.

The situation warrants the imposition of a ban against exporting black sand ore, or magnetite, an ore of iron used in steel production, Probinsyano Ako party list representative Jose Bonito Singson, Jr. said during a committee hearing on Wednesday.

Singson is the author of House Bill No. 6321 that seeks to prohibit the exportation of black sand and its derivatives in its raw form to other countries.

Industry data show black sand mining in the Ilocos Region, including Cagayan, as well as in Leyte.

The Ilocos Region faces the South China Sea or the West Philippine Sea that China increasingly has been trying to militarize. Chinas huge appetite for steel has brought it closer to Philippine shores, and Singson says thats a red flag: Luzons coastlines are receding.

They [Chinese miners] would bring their barge and then they would use massive machineries to extract the black sand from our shoreline, Singson told lawmakers as the House committee on Natural Resources tackles his proposed bill.

Ang shoreline natin, lumiit na, umiksi na. [Our shoreline is receding], he pointed out.

Ronald Recidoro, Chamber of Mines executive director who attended the Wednesday virtual hearing, shared a similar observation.

Lumalabas na [It appears] the contractor is helping by dredging the river, pero bakit kina-cart out yung buhangin? [but why does the contractor cart out black sand?] When you dredge, you just put it aside, he said in a separate interview, adding that the regulatory regime for magnetite black sand really needs to be reviewed since the national government currently has no oversight function on this.

Both Singson and industry group Chamber of Mines said black sand mining should be covered by national policy, such that the national government should keep watch over black sand miners whose operations span as far as Cagayan that is prone to massive flooding. Raw black sand should first be processed locally to create a domestic industry that generates jobs, they added.

We have steel manufacturing plants in Iligan that use only recycled steel/iron and imported iron as raw materials, Recidoro said.

I think one key factor is scale. Steel mills will need a lot of iron ore to feed their smelters, and that cannot yet be met by local miners. The steel industry will still have to rely on imports to remain competitive, he added.

Recidoro also pointed out that if the government can connect the miners with ore processors, there is no need for us to impose a ban on iron ore exportsbecause the local miners would be selling their output to a domestic foundry and/or steel mill.

The Department of Trade and Industry argued that a ban on mineral exports could be tantamount to violating some provisions of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

The controversy over the illegal operations by Chinese companies and small-scale miners mining black sand in Ilocos and Cagayan dates back to the time of President Noynoy Aquino.

Aquino launched a crackdown on illegal small scale miners but his executive order has been amended by President Rodrigo Duterte via Executive Order 130, igniting debates again.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  The ruling administration party sent different directive to its members about a supposed national assembly at the end of the month, further indicating possible cracks in the leadership.

Senator Manny Pacquiao, acting president of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan, directed party members to ignore the call for a national assembly on May 31 issued by party vice chairman and Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi.

In a memorandum circular dated May 25, Pacquiao strongly advised members to disregard the letter sent by Cusi which violated the party constitution.

Any call for a national council, assembly, or meeting must be approved by both the chairman and the president only, he said. President Rodrigo Duterte is party chairman.

Pacquiao also wrote, This is not the time for politics. Instead, let us help our country ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic.

A divide within PDP-Laban became apparent in March after a number of members signed a petition urging Duterte to run for vice president in 2022. Pacquaio said the resolution, backed by Cusi, was unauthorized.

Wag mong dini-divide yung isipan ng mga miyembro ng partido para gamitin mo sa sariling interes, Pacquiao had said in a media, apparently addressing Cusi.

Linawin ko lang hindi ako nakikipag-away sayo.," he added. "Pero wag mo ko awayin, hindi ako yung tao na pwede mo lang laru-laruin."

[Translation: Dont divide our members for your self-interest. I just want to clarify that I'm not looking for a fight with you. But dont fight with me, as Im not the kind of person you can just take lightly.]

Pacquiao repeatedly asked party mates to focus first on the pandemic response before talking politics for next years polls.
(CNN) -- Ford is doubling down on electric vehicle development, announcing Wednesday it will invest $30 billion in electrification efforts by 2025. The automaker also pledged that 40% of its vehicles sold by 2030 will be electric.

Ford had previously announced plans to spend $22 billion on electrification efforts and had recently revealed plans to build two new battery factories in a joint venture with Korean battery maker SK innovation.

Last week, Ford also unveiled an all-electric version of the F-150 pickup, the best selling vehicle from any US automaker. The electric F-150 Lightning is due in showrooms in 2022. Ford said Wednesday that it received 70,000 customer reservations for the electric truck since it was unveiled a week ago. Ford has already started selling an electric SUV under its iconic Mustang name, the Mustang Mach-E.

But Ford is still playing catchup with all-electric vehicle maker Tesla and also with traditional automakers, such as its alliance partner Volkswagen and domestic rival General Motors. Both have more extensive EV offerings and more aggressive electrification targets. GM says it is aiming to sell only emission-free vehicles by 2035.

Ford said it is committed to catching and passing its rivals as the industry shifts to EVs.

"Our ambition is to lead the electric revolution. I really mean that," said CEO Jim Farley, speaking to investors and analysts Wednesday. Asked about the GM target of being all electric by 2035, and whether Ford has a similar target date, Farley was somewhat dismissive of its rival's promise, which GM CEO Mary Barra has described as an "aspiration" for the company.

"We're talking about our entire fleet. No asterisk," Farley said. "We think it's prudent to focus not on an aspiration, but on our actual plans."

Farley predicted that Ford will be able to capture equal or improved market share as it shifts to EVs. So far 70% of buyers of the Mustang Mach-E have come to Ford from other automakers, according to Lisa Drake, the chief operating officer of Ford's North American unit.

Farley admitted that the company's financial performance has not been as good as it should have been in recent years. Ford lost an average of $2 billion a year outside of North America in each of the last three years. But he pointed to the profit Ford posted overseas in the first quarter this year and said the company should now be able to achieve an 8% profit margin, excluding interest, taxes and special items, by 2023.

Virtually all automakers are ramping up production plans for electric vehicles to meet increasingly tougher environmental regulations and growing demand from car buyers. Electric cars have fewer moving parts than gas-powered vehicles, and therefore can be cheaper to build because they require less labor.

Farley forecast that costs of building EVs will fall as production increases, especially of EV batteries, a significant part of the price of building an electric vehicle. Farley predicted that battery costs will decline by 40% by the middle of this decade. So the shift to EVs will be able to "deliver higher profitability ... compared to today's ICE [internal combustion engine] offerings," Farley said.

Investors are more interested in backing automakers with ambitious EV plans rather than traditional automakers. Tesla is by far the most valuable car company, despite having a fraction of the sales and profits of traditional automakers. Tesla's market value is roughly equal to that of the value of the five largest global automakers combined.

Shares of Ford rose 7% in midday trading on its EV announcement, hitting a five-year high for its share price.

This story was first published on CNN.com "Ford expects 40% of global sales to be electric vehicles by 2030".
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  Lucio Hun Hun Tan III is named to another key position in the Tan family business: vice president at PAL Holdings.

The Philippine Airlines operator informed the Philippine Stock Exchange on Thursday the appointment of the third-generation Tan to the post, which took effect on May 26.

The grandchild and namesake of tycoon Lucio Tan, he is the son of former PAL Holdings president Lucio Bong Tan Jr. who passed away in November 2019.

Tan IIIs appointment comes at a turbulent time for the airline operator as PAL struggles with limited flights in light of pandemic-induced travel restrictions.

PAL president and chief operating officer Gilbert Santa Maria told CNN Philippines earlier this month that they are surviving with difficulty amid these trying times.

Were managing liquidity, were trying to continue to get the forbearance from our lessors on the payments on the aircraft. Weve returned some aircraft, the flag carrier chief said.

PAL is also in the middle of a restructuring which includes cost-cutting efforts, added Santa Maria, also noting the airlines transformation into a cargo carrier during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last October, PAL announced up to 35% of its 7,000-strong workforce will be affected by job cuts under its recovery plan.

In late 2019, Tan III was also appointed president and chief operating officer of the family-led Tanduay Distillers and director of LT Group, MacroAsia, PAL Holdings, PAL and Air Philippines. He has a bachelor's degree in computer engineering and master's degree in computer science from Stanford University.

Shares of PAL Holdings finished trading on Thursday at 5.74, up 4.36% from the previous close.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  San Miguel Corporation has been relentless in helping those who need it the most.

It provided free livelihood and skills training for 22 Dumagat tribe members living in Norzagaray, Bulacan.

The tribesmen and women, mostly farmers and fisherfolk, reside in the towns deep forests.

They graduated on Thursday morning after undergoing food processing and entrepreneurship training for weeks.

San Miguel is also providing them freezers, coolers, and Magnolia products to start their livelihood.

The beneficiaries, while undergoing mentoring, can resell San Miguel food products in their communities.

The conglomerate tied up with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for the training.

Nasa puso na po natin yung pagtulong, kahit po sino, especially ito pong ating mga minamahal na katutubo, SMCs Atty. Micaela Rosales told CNN Philippines.

[Translation: We have in our hearts the desire to help anyone, especially our beloved indigenous people.]

Sa pamamagitan po nito, magiging self-reliant sila para po masuportahan ang ikabubuhay ng kanilang pamilya at ang kaunlaran ng kanilang komunidad, she also said.

[Translation: Through this initiative, they can become more self-reliant, so they can support their families through their livelihood and help further develop their communities.]

Elsie Gonzales, a tribe member, said her additional income can help her family get by during the pandemic.

The 37-year-old mother added she is grateful to SMC and TESDA for helping Dumagat families get closer to their dreams.

Kasi po marami po akong anak kaya para rin po maitaguyod ko po ang aking mga anak," Gonzales said.

[Translation: I have a lot of children, so this livelihood training can help me raise them.]

San Miguel and TESDA are aiming to extend livelihood training to some 350 tribe members in the area.
(CNN)  Originally intended to help launch HBO Max, "Friends: The Reunion" finally hits the streaming service, in big, slightly bloated, unapologetically nostalgic form. A valentine to fans, the nearly two-hour special is inevitably hard-pressed to justify the hype, working best when it lets the cast casually reminisce, while getting carried away with cameos, some of which, well, couldn't be more random.

"Friends" signed off in 2004, and part of the special's appeal is simply seeing the band back together again, looking older (to varying degrees) and undeniably a whole lot richer. One by one, they return to the set and soundstage, exchanging slightly awkward hugs (welcome to the Covid era) and sharing memories.

Directed and produced by "The Late Late Show with James Corden" producer Ben Winston, who recently did a fine job overseeing the Grammys, the special uses a mishmash of techniques to orchestrate and structure this walk down memory lane, including an in-person interview with Corden in front of an appreciative, socially distanced audience.

Some of those touches play better than others, with perhaps the best being snippets in which the stars  Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer  engage in table reads of old episodes, intercut with snippets of the originals. It's the closest to a scripted "Friends" reunion we're apt to get, and fascinating to watch how seamlessly they appear to slide back into these roles, 17 years later.

Other highlights include a taped piece in which producers Kevin Bright, Marta Kauffman and David Crane discuss casting the series  and all the serendipity that went into bringing these six actors together  and interviews with fans around the world, discussing what the show meant to them.

"We didn't want stars," Crane recalls during the discussion about the casting process. Instead, "Friends" made its players into stars, leaving them in a very different place when they signed off a decade after it began.

At the same time, "The Reunion" labors in places to conjure a sense of fun, putting the actors through game-show-style trivia tests and enlisting celebrities whose involvement alternately feels arbitrary and unnecessary.

There are also notable oversights, such as the cast's all-for-one, one-for-all approach when negotiating their contracts in the later seasons  a novel tactic, reflecting the program's true ensemble nature, the actors' solidarity, and the financial juggernaut that "Friends" became for NBC and production company Warner Bros. (which, like CNN and HBO Max, is a unit of WarnerMedia).

Then again, "Friends: The Reunion" reflects the present media age as much as the mid-1990s period that birthed the show, when a network sitcom hit of this magnitude was still possible. Given the hunger for content and recognizable titles, what might have been a Museum of Television and Radio retrospective has essentially been blown up into highly promotable ammunition for the streaming wars.

Taped in April, the special covers considerable ground that could inspire various "Friends"-esque episode titles, but when all's said and done, a few contenders pretty well apply: "The One That Celebrates the Show," "The One That Promotes a Streaming Service," "The One That Tries A Little Too Hard," and at its best, "The One That Gives Fans A Lot of What They Wanted."

"Friends: The Reunion" premieres May 27 on HBO Max.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  Adolescents and young teens will not yet be a part of the Philippines' COVID-19 vaccination drive for now, according to Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, even as the country's FDA is close to allowing the use of Pfizers vaccine for persons aged 12 to 15 years old.

Duque said on Thursday that the vaccination of the younger population is not the government's priority as there are more vulnerable groups that need to be protected from the coronavirus, especially at a time when vaccine supply remains scarce.

"Dahil kulang pa ang bakuna at hindi naman sila kabilang sa high-risk group, hindi muna natin sila pwede isama sa ngayon dahil kulang na nga tayo. Dapat ay talagang itulak natin ang mabilisang bakunahan para sa mga senior citizens, A2 at A3 (people with co-morbidities)," he said in a media briefing.

[Translation: Since we are still short on vaccines and they are not part of the high-risk group, we cannot include them yet. We should really push for the immediate vaccination of senior citizens and people with comorbidities.]

Duque said he supports plans to inoculate those aged 12-15, but the government cannot stray from its prioritization plan if it hopes to reach its vaccination target this year.

The Duterte administration is lowering its initial goal of inoculating 70% of the population or 70 million Filipinos by year-end to achieve herd immunity. It will be brought down to 50% to 60%, focusing on providing Metro Manila residents with immediate protection.

Food and Drug Administration Director General Eric Domingo on Wednesday said he will issue within the week an amendment to the emergency use authorization granted to Pfizer back in January to allow the use of its vaccine on individuals aged 12-15. He said local experts studying the application lodged in May 20 so far had favorable recommendations.

The development comes after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration earlier this month also expanded its EUA for Pfizers vaccine to include those aged 12 to 15 years old in America.

Here in the Philippines, Pfizers vaccine is currently only allowed for use for people aged 16 and up.

The country has so far administered 3.46 million first doses, while 1,029,061 people have completed their COVID-19 shots.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  Barangay leaders will be the first ones arrested if they fail to prevent mass gatherings in their areas, President Rodrigo Duterte ordered on Wednesday. But he also wants to make sure that guests will not be off the hook.

Kapag may isa pa, beginning tonight, ang unang hulihin ang barangay captain, he said during his weekly national address.

[Translation: If there is one more incident, beginning tonight, the barangay captain will be the first one to be arrested.]

I'm ordering the police to arrest the barangay captain and bring him to the station. Investigate him for dereliction of duty, having failed to enforce the law, added Duterte.

Duterte made the remark after Interior Secretary Eduardo Ano reported incidents of mass gatherings in NCR Plus amid the pandemic. There were superspreader parties that recently took place in Caloocan and Quezon City which infected more than 70 attendees.

A councilor in Quezon City was also asked on Monday to explain the breach in health protocol after around 6,000 people showed up at an ayuda distribution activity organized by Councilor Franz Pumaren in Barangay Old Balara.

I hate it. Malaki ang respeto ko sa barangay captain (I have a huge respect for barangay captain)  I am telling you that it is your duty to prevent these kinds of events from happening in your jurisdiction, Duterte said.

He also assured the police not to be afraid of enforcing the law.

The police must play an important role. Do not be afraid you can use reasonable force if there is a resistance to the arrest, said Duterte.

The President also said he will look for a suitable law against individuals who will continue to gather in large groups despite the constant warnings from officials.

"Binabalewala ninyo ang pakiusap ng gobyerno and its criminal for you to get the COVID and pass it on to another innocent person. It is really a crime. Naghahanap ako ngayon ng batas na paano ko kayo ipahuli ng pulis," he said. "Walang katapusan na itong p***** i**** to kasi lahat kayo naghahawaan na naman and you know the danger of congregating or getting together so close to each other, nagsasayawan pa, nagpipiyesta pa."

[Translation: You are ignoring the appeal of the government. It is a crime for you to have COVID and pass it on to an innocent person. I am looking for a suitable law for your arrest. This pandemic will not end because you are spreading the virus. You know the danger of congregating or getting together so close to each other and yet here you are dancing with each other and partying.]

Duterte previously ordered the arrest of those who fail to properly wear face masks in public. The Departments of Justice and Interior Government are still in the process of crafting the guidelines. It is unclear if this will also cover those who violate mass gathering restrictions.

The country on Wednesday recorded 5,310 new COVID-19 cases, pushing the nationwide tally to 1,193,976, the Department of Health reported. Of the total, 46,037 or 3.9% are active cases or currently ill patients.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  President Rodrigo Duterte joining the vice-presidential race next year remains a possibility, his spokesperson Harry Roque hinted on Thursday.

I think I will quote the President  he leaves it to God, Roque said in a media briefing.

Duterte, the then-Davao City mayor, made a similar "I leave it to God" statement in an October 2015 interview with Rappler before officially announcing his bid for the highest seat in government.

His daughter, incumbent Davao City Mayor Sara Dutere, is among those seen to possibly take over his role in 2022.

A survey by Pulse Asia released last month showed the First Daughter is the top bet of Filipinos among potential candidates. However, in January this year, the younger Duterte told her supporters to wait for her to run in 2034.

Meanwhile, Vice President Leni Robredo topped the list of people being eyed by the new opposition coalition 1Sambayan as a presidential candidate in the upcoming polls, but Robredo has yet to decide on the matter.has yet to decide on the matter.
OCALA, Fla.The health alert issued on May 17 regarding a blue-green algae bloom in Lake Weir has been rescinded. Water samples taken this week at the site of the previously reported algal bloom no longer show the presence of blue-green algae toxins. Lake visitors can resume their normal water activities.

The Florida Department of Health in Marion County had issued the health alert for the presence of Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii and Botryococcus braunii toxins in surface water. These toxins are related to the presence of blue-green algae. The impacted waterbody was Lake Weir with a main public access point along the north shore.

Blue-green algae (also known as cyanobacteria) can grow in Floridas fresh waterbodies. Large concentrations of these algae, called blooms, can change the waters color to blue, green, brown, orange, or red. Blue-green algae can grow rapidly and sometimes form a foamy surface scum and an unpleasant odor.

Some environmental factors that contribute to blue-green algae blooms are sunny days, warm water temperatures, still water conditions and excess nutrients. Blooms can appear year-round but are more frequent in summer and fall. Many types of blue-green algae can produce toxins.

What do I do if I see an algal bloom?

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection collects and analyzes algal bloom samples. To report a bloom to DEP, call the toll-free hotline at 855-305-3903 or submit a report online. For more information on algal blooms, visit https://floridadep.gov/algalbloom.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  The Department of Health will launch an investigation on the COVID-19 vaccination of several Chinese nationals in Pasay City.

"Papaimbestigahan natin iyan kasi hindi malinaw sa amin ang ulat na iyan, kung ano ang naging batayan," Health Secretary Francisco Duque said in a media briefing on Thursday. "Kakausapin ang pamahalaang lokal kung saan ito ay nagaganap at bigyan sila ng stern warning na hindi dapat nangyayari ito dahil nilalalabag natin ang ating prioritization framework."

[Translation: We will have that investigated because the details are unclear. The basis for the vaccination is unclear. We will talk to the local government. We will give a stern warning that this should not be happening because we are violating our prioritization framework.]

The local government confirmed several Chinese nationals have been vaccinated in their area, but stressed they are either elderlies or people with comorbidities who are living in Pasay City.

It added there is no special treatment or discrimination in the vaccination program. As long as a person falls under the priority group and a resident of the city, they are eligible to get inoculated.

"There is no VIP treatment or any form of undue preference given to Chinese nationals in the COVID-19 vaccination program of the Pasay City government... These individuals, like all the other people who got vaccinated, passed through the normal process," it said in a statement on Thursday.

The Pasay City government also vowed to cooperate in the DOH investigation.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  House lawmakers are close to passing a resolution seeking to amend economic provisions of the Constitution, but their counterparts in the Senate plan to adjourn next week without tackling it.

"I don't think we have enough time as it is to take a quick look into the proposal," Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III told CNN Philippines in a text message on Thursday.

"Perhaps after the SONA (we can) tackle the resolution," he added.

Congress goes on a two-month break starting June 5. It will resume its final regular session on July 26, in time for President Rodrigo Duterte's State of the Nation Address.

On Wednesday, the House passed on second reading Resolution of Both Houses No. 2, which seeks to ease foreign ownership restrictions by inserting the phrase "unless otherwise provided by the law" to constitutional provisions on national patrimony and economy, education, science and technology, arts, culture and sports, and general provisions of the charter.

Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon said even if this is taken up, it will face an uphill battle in the upper chamber.

"My reading is that the Senators are not inclined to support amendments to the Constitution at this time. It was not even in the agenda of the LEDAC (Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council) meeting yesterday, which means it is not a priority legislation," Drilon said in a statement.

The veteran lawmaker said the Senate is expected to soon pass instead "major laws and bills designed to liberalize our investment climate without amending the Constitution." These include bills seeking to amend the Public Service Act, the Retail Trade Liberalization Act, and Foreign Investments Act.

Opposition Senator Risa Hontiveros said she respects the decision of the members of the House, but stressed that foreign investments should not be the lawmakers' priority.

"Panandaliang-kita lang ang hanap ng foreign investors. Pero pag-unlad ang dapat prayoridad natin bilang mambabatas, para kung mayroon o wala mang foreign investors, maayos at angat ang kalagayan ng Pilipino," she said.

[Translation: Foreign investors are looking for momentary earnings. We should prioritize development as lawmakers, so Filipinos can prosper with or without foreign investors.]

Sotto said it's too early to tell the fate of the proposed economic charter change in the Senate. But in an interview with CNN Philippines early this year, he said he too is "not convinced" it is what the country needs. Like Drilon, he believes it's easier to discuss the easing of economic restrictions through regular legislation.

Late last year, Senators Francis Tolentino and Ronald dela Rosa filed a resolution seeking to convene Congress as a constituent assembly to introduce amendments to the Constitution. Talks will be "limited to the provisions on democratic representation and the economic provisions of the Constitution," the resolution states, but it remains untouched in the chamber.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 27)  Persons who buy slots in the illegal "vaccine for sale" scheme may also face jail time, the Metro Manila Development Authority warned Thursday.

"I'm warning them right now, kung ikaw ay gagawa ng kalokohan, magbebenta ng slot, siguradong makukulong ka. Hindi lang iyon, pati ang bibili ng slot, thats a conspiracy kaya kayo rin po ay makukulong," MMDA Chairman Benhur Abalos told CNN Philippines' The Source on Thursday.

[Translation: I'm warning them right now, if you resort to mischief, like selling slots, you will surely go to jail. Not only that, even those who will buy slots from them, that's a conspiracy, so you will also go to jail.]

Abalos said they are already looking at other possible suspects who may also be involved in the supposed scheme, after a suspect in Mandaluyong surrendered to authorities on Wednesday.

Suspect Kyle Bonifacio, a son of a barangay councilor, bared that he was offered a price in exchange for a slot in Mandaluyong's immunization program, but denied he was involved in selling slots. He added that he will only provide other details in his testimony to authorities.

READ: Suspect in 'vaccine for sale' scheme in Mandaluyong surrenders

"Right now he is with the CIDG (Criminal Investigation and Detection Group) and after a few days, he will be with the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation). What matters here is that there would be a thorough investigation," Abalos said.

"We also like to know kung meron siyang kasabwat, o talaga bang siya lang mag-isa dito. Most importantly gusto naming malaman on the side of LGUs, are there other persons from the government?" he added. "Importante pong malaman namin so we can file charges against these persons."

[Translation: We also like to know if there are other persons involved, if it was really just him. Most importantly, we want to know from the side of LGUs, are there other persons from the government who could be involved? It is important for us to know so we can file charges against these persons.]

Appropriate charges will be filed against Bonifacio should he be proven guilty. It could be estafa, bribery, or violation of the Bayanihan to Act as One Law, Abalos said.

COVID-19 vaccines are only approved for emergency use and cannot be sold commercially. The Health Department earlier warned that those caught selling vaccination slots will be penalized under the law.
The President says barangay leaders will be the first ones to be arrested if they fail to prevent mass gatherings in their areas. But he also wants to make sure guest will not be off the hook. The Philippine National Police says it is ready to implement the President's orders.
(CNN) -- French President Emmanuel Macron publicly acknowledged France's "overwhelming responsibility" in the 1994 genocide in Rwanda and said only the survivors could give "the gift of forgiveness."

"France did not understand that, while trying to prevent a regional conflict, or a civil war, it was in fact standing by the side of a genocidal regime," Macron said Thursday following a visit to the Gisozi memorial in the Rwandan capital Kigali.

"By doing so, it endorsed an overwhelming responsibility," Macron added, in the strongest public admission of responsibility from a French leader to date.

"On this path, only those who went through the night can, maybe, forgive us, give us the gift of forgiveness," Macron concluded.

The French president said his country was "not complicit" in the genocide because killers were not French, he vowed that "no suspected genocide perpetrator will be able to avoid justice" because "recognizing our past is also - and above all else - continuing the work of justice."

France and Rwanda have long been at odds over France's role during the genocide and activists have called for the prosecution of perpetrators, some of whom have been living in France for years.

Rwandan President Kagame praised French President Macron's speech, saying it was a "major step" in the relationship between the two countries.

"France and Rwanda are going to relate much better, to the benefit of both our people," Kagame said, even if "the relationship between the two countries will never be entirely conventional."

Macron's words "were something more valuable than an apology: they were the truth," Kagame added.

"Politically and morally, this was an act of tremendous courage," Kagame said.

France has proposed the nomination of an ambassador to Rwanda, Macron said following Kagame's speech. France currently has a functioning embassy in Rwanda, but no envoy.

Macron's visit to Kigali is meant to mark a final step in the normalization of relations between France and Rwanda, long overshadowed by France's involvement in the genocide, according to the Elysee.

In 1994, around 800,000 mainly ethnic Tutsis were killed by Hutu militias supported by the Rwandan government. France has been accused of failing to prevent the genocide and of supporting the Hutu regime, even after the massacres had started.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Macron seeks forgiveness for France's role in Rwanda genocide, but stops short of apology"
(CNN)  Scores of people are missing and feared dead after an overloaded boat capsized in the northwestern Nigerian state of Kebbi on Wednesday with around 180 passengers on board, government authorities said.

The incident took place in the Niger River early Wednesday local time when the boat left Niger state and was heading to Kebbi State, according to Mary Noel-Berje, a spokeswoman for the Niger State government.

Around 20 people have been rescued and four bodies recovered so far, she said, adding that the search and rescue operations are ongoing.

Most of the passengers are from Kebbi State and are believed to be traders, Noel-Berje said.

Authorities are citing overloading as the cause of the accident.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "More than 100 missing after boat sinks in northwest Nigeria."
(CNN)  The Pentagon is in the early stages of planning for the potential evacuation of thousands of Afghan nationals whose work for the US could make them Taliban targets when the American military withdraws from the country, according to four administration officials.

The officials emphasized that a formal request to develop a contingency plan has not been made by the White House but there is significant pressure on the administration from Capitol Hill and outside groups to safely remove the Afghans before US troops leave.

President Joe Biden's April announcement that the US would withdraw troops by September 11 has created uncertainty for thousands of Afghans who risked their lives to help the US military working as translators and in other roles since the beginning of the war in Afghanistan in 2001.

Officials have privately said the troop withdrawal could be completed in July which increases the sense of urgency. There has also been an uptake in Taliban violence against Afghan security forces and civilians in recent weeks and Afghans who are waiting for visas to come to the US have been killed by the Taliban.

In one recent instance the Taliban cracked the skull of an Afghan national with an AK-47, kept him captive and told him that they planned to kill him because he had worked for the Americans, he told CNN. The man was able to escape only because the Afghan national army raided the place where he was being held.

An evacuation is just one option being examined and the administration is also looking at speeding up the issuing of visas. The State Department has said that about 18,000 people who have applied for special immigrant visas to the US are still awaiting approval.

But there are concerns that it will not be possible to process all of them before the troops have left. Granting the visas is an arduous and lengthy process; in recent years the processing for each approved applicant has taken more than 500 days, according to State Department data reviewed by CNN in April.

'We could certainly do it'

Last month Gen. Kenneth McKenzie, the commander of US Central Command, said that the Pentagon could assist in getting Afghans out of harm's way if they were directed to do.

"The special immigrant visa program is probably the best route to make that happen. And it's really a better question for the Department of State than me. I would just tell you that from a Central Command perspective and the perspective of the US military, if directed to do something like that, we could certainly do it," Mckenzie said at a Pentagon briefing.

The officials with knowledge of the initial planning process said US Central command which oversees operations in Afghanistan and commanders in the country needed to start planning now to be ready when a decision is made by the Biden administration. They stress that an evacuation would be a highly complex operation and they'd hope to carry it out gradually. They need to work out how many people would need to be transported, how many aircraft would be needed and whether the Afghans would be taken to an interim location outside the US while their visa applications are reviewed. Covid-19 considerations are also a complicating factor, according to the officials.

One official noted that many would need to be transported from different locations across the country to be flown out. As US troops continue to withdraw that process will become increasingly complicated and it is a major priority to keep Kabul's international civilian airport and other major airfields free of Taliban control.

When asked about a potential evacuation, a State Department spokesperson said the department is "focused on ensuring that the system functions quickly but is also consistent with US security and other application requirements." The spokesperson added that the US is processing SIVs in Kabul "efficiently" and noted that applicants can also pursue the processing in neighboring countries.

The Secretary of Defense is "actively participating in what is an interagency discussion" about how to "best address" the issue, Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby said during a press briefing on Wednesday.

"The secretary shares concerns about so many Afghans who have helped us over the last two decades, he knows many of them himself, so he's certainly vested in making sure we do right by them," Kirby said.

Kirby did not have specific "planning options" to discuss, but said, "certainly to the degree that DoD can be helpful, we will."

Political pressure

There is significant bipartisan political pressure for the US to secure the safety of the Afghans who have assisted American troops.

"We cannot allow Afghanistan to be another Saigon," Rep. Michael McCaul, the top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said during a hearing on Afghanistan last week. "This isn't just about the people waiting for these visas in Afghanistan. If our allies and partners don't trust us to keep our word or think they will be abandoned, it could cause irreparable damage to our national security."

McCaul -- along with his Democratic counterpart, Rep. Gregory Meeks -- wrote a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken that urged the State Department to expedite visas for some 3,000 Afghans whose applications remain pending.

"We must do our part to aid those Afghans who have aided us. There are already troubling examples of Taliban plan to target those who have helped the United States. We must ensure that we have the capacity to bring them to safety," said Sen. Jack Reed, the Democratic chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

Outside groups and individuals have met the Biden administration and urged them to put more resources towards visa processing and then put together a backup plan for a possible airlift, according to sources familiar with the discussions. But the groups have not received any updates in recent weeks on the status of the administration's efforts regarding a possible evacuation.

Recently the State Department has increased consular staffing at the embassy in Kabul in an effort to process more applications. State Department Spokesman Ned Price said the administration will "continue to look for ways to speed up this process."

The Pentagon is aware that time is of the essence.

"We have a moral obligation to help those that have helped us over the past 20 years of our presence and work in Afghanistan. We are working very closely with our State Department interagency colleagues to look at programs like the Special Immigrant Visa program," David Helvey, the acting assistant secretary of defense for Indo-Pacific affairs, told the Senate Armed Services Committee last week.

Helvey noted that administration wants to work with Congress to increase the number of visas available and use other mechanisms to bring Afghans who may not qualify for the special immigrant visa program to safety. The Pentagon is also working with the State Department to provide data to help identify Afghans who worked for the US.

This story was first published on CNN.com 'Pentagon examining how to evacuate thousands who worked for US from Afghanistan'
Instead of addressing the crisis at the border, the Biden-Harris Administration has tried to send migrant children to the states. Nebraska has declined a request from the Biden-Harris Administration to house migrant children in our state. We are reserving our limited resources for serving our kids. We do not want our kids harmed as the result of President Bidens bad policies. Nor do we have the appropriate resources for this migrant population. As in the past, the Biden-Harris Administration should focus on working with Central American governments to reunite the children with their families in their home countries instead of pursuing the risky strategy of scattering them across the United States. As I recently wrote in a letter along with other Governors to the President, The cause of the border crisis is entirely due to reckless federal policy reversals executed within your first 100 days in office.
Policies can be implemented to attract investment and create job opportunities in the state but more is needed, Ricketts said.

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At the end of the day, no company moves to a generic place called Nebraska. They only go to communities that are welcoming, and you all have that welcoming community here in Columbus, Ricketts added. You see it through the growth of great companies like Behlen and Pillen Family Farms and now Nelnet is coming here to help create jobs in your community.

 But it only happens when you have great companies like Nelnet that want to invest in our state and great communities like Columbus who are welcoming to that investment. We're praying (for) those jobs, those opportunities for our folks here in Nebraska.

With the number of COVID-19 cases declining and more people receiving the vaccine, a sense of normalcy is starting to return, he noted.

Earlier this week, I discontinued our Directed Health Measures that required the quarantine, got rid of some of the executive orders that I put in place as part of the pandemic and pulled us out of that federal pandemic unemployment plan because we're getting back to normal here in Nebraska, Ricketts said.
The Saudi capital, Riyadh has ranked 14th most ambitious city in the world for entrepreneurs per a study run by UK-based card payment provider, Dojo, Zawya reports.

Riyadh garnered 328 out of 500 after it saw 12,116 new businesses registered in the city in the past year, and 1,470 Google searches for how to start a new business and a 14 percent increase in searches for how to fund a new business compared with the previous year, the online media notes.

The score makes the Saudi city the only Middle East city to feature in the top 20. The ranking is dominated by London, with a score of 481, followed by Sidney at 402, Cape Town at 384 and New York at 379.

The study criteria encompass five factors including the number of new businesses registered, the cost of starting a business as a percentage of GNI per capita, GDP per capita, percentage of the population with access to education, and Google searches for starting a new business.
The Puzzle of Hope is where wooden puzzle pieces will be put on display and attendees can write a persons name or a message to someone. According to Keit, the puzzle is big enough to fill an entire wall.

This is the first time Columbus Cancer Care Foundation is holding a large picnic.

The foundation has held smaller ones in the past but this bigger one was decided on after canceling another fundraiser, the Blue Jean Benefit, due to COVID-19, Keit said. She added the nonprofit's board of directors didnt want to hold an indoor event where the attendees take off their masks to eat as that could increase the chance of getting the virus.

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But having an outdoor event will allow for folks to social distance easier, Keit said.

Were feeling more comfortable as COVID winds down, she said, adding adding that the more people getting vaccinated makes the event possible.

Columbus Cancer Care Foundation Operations Director Kaylen Biltoft, who is also a radiation therapist for the center, said holding the picnic is notable because it allows the survivors to celebrate their journey battling cancer.
Acting Health Secretary Alison Beam on Thursday announced that Pennsylvania's mask order will be lifted by June 28.

After reviewing the vaccination data for people 18 and over and discussing it with the COVID-19 Vaccine Legislative Task Force, we have determined that the commonwealths mask order can be lifted on June 28 or when 70% of adults get their second dose, whichever comes first, she said. Pennsylvanians are realizing that they have the power to stop COVID-19 and they are stepping up to get vaccinated.

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The announcement comes a day after the state received news that 70% of adults had received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Health officials believe this is a strong indicator that the state will be on track to meet the 70% second dose statistic by the end of June.

To date, 52.7% of Pennsylvania adults are fully vaccinated, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 97.7% of Pennsylvanians 65 and older have received at least one dose of the vaccine.
The video obtained by the AP and later released by state police shows troopers stunning, beating and choking Greene, 49, following an automobile chase and crash in northeast Louisiana in May 2019.

Greenes family was initially told that he died in the car crash. State police later issued a brief statement acknowledging there was a struggle with officers and that Greene died on the way to the hospital.

The video shows troopers converging on Greenes car outside Monroe, Louisiana, after a high-speed chase that followed an unspecified traffic violation. Troopers can be seen repeatedly jolting the 49-year-old unarmed man with stun devices, putting him in a chokehold, punching him in the head and dragging him by his ankle shackles.

He also was placed facedown on the ground for more than nine minutes while restrained  a tactic use-of-force experts criticized as dangerous and likely to have restricted his breathing.

An autopsy cited the restraint and an inflicted head injury as factors in Greene's death, along with cocaine-induced delirium and other injuries that might have been the result of the car crash.
Vanuatu turns the Corner LETS USE THIS AS A SPRINGBOARD FOR THE FUTURE
During the meeting, councilors and board members seemed supportive of an option that would cost in the $75-$80 million range, as long as other revenue becomes available. That revenue could come from a 1 cent increase to the local sales tax rate to fund school construction or private donations. The sales tax rate increase would generate $10 million a year, city officials said, but would have to be approved by the General Assembly and local voters.

I think we have to look beyond the city coffers, councilor Heather Hill said.   There are other avenues that were going to have to pursue for this plan to become a reality, because I dont believe the $50 million is going to get us what we need. But we have to acknowledge what the limits are within this city.

To pay for the current CIP, city staffers have suggested a 10-cent real estate tax rate increase spread out over five years, starting in Fiscal Year 2023.

Board member Jennifer McKeever said that another option could be for council to pause some other projects in its CIP.

Theres no package of things that we could pause that would get you where you want to go, councilor Lloyd Snook said.

McKeever replied that this process is a negotiation.
After one year leading Western Albemarle High School, Jason Lee will assume a revamped role in the Charlottesville school division.

The division announced a pair of new hires Wednesday, including Rodney Jordan, a Fairfax County administrator, who will take over as principal of Buford Middle School.

As the supervisor of facilities, safety and operations, Lee will help to implement the divisions new safety and security model that relies on a cadre of unarmed adults who will work with students and address conflicts, among other responsibilities, to ensure the schools are safe and secure.

I am excited to implement this new model for safety in Charlottesville City Schools, Lee said in a news release. I am a believer in procedure, training, and relationships, and all three will be key to the models success. The more we can create a culture of mutual support and proactive problem-solving, the more positive the school experience will be for students, teachers, staff, and families.

Before coming to Western Albemarle, Lee was an assistant principal at Albemarle High School. Hes also worked at Ivy Creek, which is part of the Piedmont Regional Education Program, and at Fluvanna County High School.
RICHMOND  The topic of campaign finance reform was raised in an unusual way Tuesday night at the first and only televised debate of Virginia Democratic primary for lieutenant governor, with a moderator tailoring a question specifically to Del. Sam Rasoul, the first Muslim ever elected to the General Assembly.

Dave Lucas, an anchor at WJLA in Arlington, noted that the Washington Post had reported Rasoul led the six-candidate primary field in fundraising partly due to big contributions from donors connected to Muslim advocacy groups.

Theres nothing wrong with that, Lucas said. But that was the case. Talk a little bit about your fundraising efforts. And can you assure Virginians if youre elected, youll represent all of them, regardless of faith or beliefs?

Though some later called the question inappropriate, Rasoul, a Roanoke-area progressive who has advocated for reforming Virginias wide-open campaign finance reform, didnt respond directly to the invocation of his religion during the hour-long debate at George Mason University in Fairfax.